Assassin's Creed: The Ponyville Chronicles

Chapters

Chapter 1: The Mentor's Mission
Chapter 2: The Pony in the Blue Box
Chapter 3: A Day Well Wasted
Chapter 4: Storm on the Horizon
Chapter 5: Not So Hidden Blade
Chapter 6: Friend or Foe?
Chapter 7: A Rock and a Hard Place
Chapter 8: Enemy
Chapter 9: Wrong Place, Wrong Time
Chapter 10: Betrayal
Chapter 11: Enlightenment
Chapter 12: On The Offensive

Chapter 1: The Mentor's Mission

As he trotted down the long concrete corridor, ShadowCaster could feel a chill go down his spine. He wondered what his mission could be if it came from the Mentor himself. He was no Master Assassin, only being in the Brotherhood for a little over a year. He had barely killed his first target, and was nowhere near as skilled as most of the other Apprentices. As he continued to think, he arrived at a large wooden door, with two guards at either side.

As he approached the door, the guards began to push it open, revealing the large room that was the Mentor's sanctuary. Inside stood an aged stallion gazing out of a large window. ShadowCaster entered the room and knelt before the pony in front of him.

"I have come as you have ordered, Sir. For what task do you require my services?" ShadowCaster spoke in the most respectable tone he could muster, but he sounded more like a nervous colt caught stealing an apple than an assassin.

The elderly stallion turned to face the pony behind him, giving him an almost sentimental smile. Though it was hard to be seen as sentimental when those around you know of the countless amount of lives you have taken throughout your own life.

"I have called you here to give you a very important assignment..."

By the time the Mentor finished explaining the mission, his expression turned back to a stern, serious look. He had turned to look out the window that looked down upon the town of Stalliongrad. He saw only the symbol of Celestia on banners spread across buildings and walls, which in the last several centuries had changed from the image of a sun to the red cross that was the insignia of the Her Templars.

ShadowCaster stood up and took 4 steps backwards, then spoke in a much more relaxed tone. " I will not fail you, Mentor. I shall leave as soon as you assign me my partner for this mission." He turned around and began to head towards the large door he had entered through until he heard his Mentor speak.

"You are not going to have one of your brothers accompany you. This mission is far too dangerous for more than one pony to take part of. Even more than one stranger to the village could raise unwanted attention. This task is yours and yours alone. Good luck, my son."

ShadowCaster turned to exit once more and walked out of the room, and down to corridor he entered through. He was excited to finally have a mission of his own, not having to share his success. He was also deeply afraid of the possibility of failure and maybe even death by the hooves of the Templars. He exited the large building and began his walk to the train that would take him to his destination.

Well, I've got a good mission that gets me out of Stalliongrad for maybe a few months. He thought to himself. Or maybe just a few weeks. I mean, how hard can it be to get information on the most important group of mares in Equestria?

Seconds after ShadowCaster arrived at the train station, the train pulled into the station. He walked to the train conductor, turned in his ticket, and boarded the train. He sat in a cubicle alone with only his single bag, containing his rapier, a small pouch containing a hundred bits, a small dagger, and a book. After a couple of minutes the train began to pull away from the station. ShadowCaster only stared out of the window as he started his journey westward towards Ponyville.

Author's Note: This is my very first attempt at a story like this. I don't expect this to be amazing. I also want to thank Andrew Joshua Talon for inspiring me to write this and proof-reading it. Your criticism is very much appreciated. Also, yes this first chapter is very short, and I apologize. This is the only chapter that will be under a thousand words. (Insert PinkiPieSwear)

Chapter 2: The Pony in the Blue Box

Author's Note: Due to the first chapter being too short, I have to publish this chapter as well.

It had been a long ride to Ponyville, as the train had made stops it both New Saddle and Canterlot. It had already taken several hours to arrive at the final stop in Ponyville, and ShadowCaster spent most of the evening planning his actions out and resting. He planned to enter Ponyville before sunrise to avoid being seen. He did not, however, know where he would stay during his time there. He hoped on there being an Inn of some sort, but his hopes had a tendency to be crushed.

He felt the train begin to slow down and halt at the station. He placed his bag on his back and left his cubicle. There had been a fewer number of ponies on board the train than when he began his trip from Stalliongrad. It was to be expected after the stop at Canterlot and the fact that Ponyville wasn't the largest and most exciting place in Equestria. As he stepped off the train he noticed that the sun had begun to rise already, making his plan less likely to succeed.

ShadowCaster began to walk towards what appeared as the villages center. He looked around at several buildings, mostly made of wood and straw. Many were completely dark, but a few were lit up.

Not a whole to do at the moment other than start looking for a place to stay. He thought to himself. He felt strange all of a sudden, as if there was somepony watching him.

He turned to the silhouette of a stallion standing behind him. The stallion simply stood there and stared at ShadowCaster, making him feel very uncomfortable.

Finally, the pony in front of him spoke. "Isn't it a bit late for somepony to trotting about in the town center? Are you new to Ponyville or are you just lost in the dark?"

The pony spoke with an accent that ShadowCaster had never heard before. As he approached ShadowCaster, the stallion was revealed by the light of a nearby house. He had a light brown coat, a dark brown mane, and a cutie mark of an hourglass.

"Not many ponies tend to travel at night, but from what you're wearing I can tell you're not a tourist." He said, as a frown began to form on his face. "I'm surprised you lot are still around after everything that's happened. You know, with your leader falling and such."

ShadowCaster was shocked that anyone from such a small place could know about the Brotherhood. Then he realized something. Only the two groups knew about each other, which led to ShadowCaster's next action. He extended one of the blades hidden under his hoof and dashed at the pony a few feet in front of him. He pounced on top of the brown pony, and moved his blade's tip to his throat.

"The only ponies that could possibly know of who I am are those of the Brotherhood and the Templars. And since you're not dressed as either, I will give you a chance to explain exactly what you know of me and the Brotherhood. If you decide to refuse, I will be forced to kill you in order to protect my brothers."

The stallion pinned on the ground simply looked ShadowCaster in the eye and spoke in a calm voice, as if there wasn't a blade at his throat.

"Now, now. No need to get your pants in a bunch. Then again, ponies don't normally wear clothes. Anyway, I would love to tell you what I know. Only problem is this is a much too public area for that. If you could be so kind as to accompany me to my shi—, I mean, my home I would tell you everything over some fresh muffins."

ShadowCaster had by this point retracted his blade and helped the pony on the ground to his feet. He had a gut feeling that he should trust this pony, but was still very much suspicious.

"Very well, I will follow you if it means I get some information. There may be other things you can assist me with. Just know, one wrong move and I will kill you."

The brown pony simply turned and began walking in the direction of the Everfree Forest.

"If you're planning on coming, hurry up. You don't know your way around Ponyville, and could get lost if you wander off. Celestia knows how often ponies get lost in places they don't belong."

"This is your home? Isn't it a bit small?"

By the time the two ponies arrived to brown pony's home, the sun had risen. His 'home' however seemed like nothing more than a small blue box.

"Also, you never gave me your name. Mine is ShadowCaster."

The other pony opened the small door to the box, gestured for ShadowCaster to enter, and stepped inside. ShadowCaster cautiously stepped inside the blue box, but instead of a cramped enclosure found a large room with a terminal of some sort in the center.

"It's... bigger on the inside." Was all that ShadowCaster was able to say due to both shock and confusion.

The brown pony just chuckled and introduced himself. "Yes, like I haven't heard that one before. My name is The Doctor, or Doctor Whooves. But that isn't important at the moment. What is important is why the Brotherhood is still around and why they've sent someone to a small town like Ponyville. I mean, you disappear for a thousand years, and then all of a sudden I see one trotting around in the dark."

ShadowCaster shook his head lightly. "The Brotherhood was never gone. Only in hiding after Luna was banished to the moon. We have been waiting, watching, and planning. As for why I am here, that I cannot tell you. Now then, time for you to answer my questions, Doctor."

It had taken several hours for The Doctor to explain everything. Not because it was a long story, but simply because ShadowCaster didn't understand everything that he was told. The Doctor seemed very patient and had no problem going through some of the information for a second time.

"So... you're a time-traveling alien? And this box is your ship?" He asked very slowly, only to get a nod from The Doctor. "Alright, I believe you. For now, at least."

ShadowCaster glanced at one of the windows of the TARDIS. It had appeared to be noon by the time everything had been explained. He stood up and began to walk towards the door.

"Thank you for your time, Doctor, but I must get going. I need to focus on my task at hand. Do you know if there is a library in this town. I need to find some information, and I'm hoping that there's a book that can help me."

The Doctor jumped at the mention of the library. "Now, wait a moment. I'm positive that an Assassin wouldn't come to Ponyville without good reason. And the fact that you happen to need to go the town's library, which just happens to be the home a certain Twilight Sparkle. What exactly are you planning?"

ShadowCaster turned and opened the door of the TARDIS. "The Elements are safe for the moment. Until I get more information will they be seen as a threat."

As he left the box, The Doctor came trotting after him. "You're not going anywhere near those six alone if I have anything to say about it. I'll be accompanying you, which should be fine since I'm not an ally of neither the Brotherhood or the Templars. I'll only be there in case you do something stupid."

ShadowCaster didn't try to protest. "Just know, if you're seen with me and the Templars recognize me they'll come after you, too. But I can tell that it's a risk you're willing to take."

Chapter 3: A Day Well Wasted

"Um, what exactly are we doing?"

"Getting information, like I said. Is there are a problem?"

"Yes, a big one. About your plan, ShadowCaster..."

"Yes?"

"It's a horrible plan. We're in a bush. In front of the library. In the middle of the street. In broad daylight."

The Doctor had gotten annoyed and bit impatient, just sitting there in a large green bush that stood in front of the library. When ShadowCaster said that he had a plan on getting information on Twilight without having to go near her, he had been hoping for something along the lines of asking about her around town. Or possibly asking The Doctor himself.

"Now, you shouldn't really be complaining. It was either this or I leave you behind and take to the rooftops. Alone. While following your friend. Maybe even break into her home, and possibly interrogate her. If you didn't like the plan, you should've said something hours ago. You know, when we decided to do this."

The Doctor had then proceeded in facehoofing. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. Not only had the assassin persuaded him to give this plan a shot, but he didn't think to offer any other ideas. Maybe he was having an off day, or perhaps his time (and lack of action) in Equestria had finally gotten to him.

"Yes, I probably should have said something. Unfortunately, I didn't and now were sitting in an obvious and somewhat stupid hiding spot. If the ponies around here didn't already think I was crazy before, they probably do now."

The Doctor stepped out of the bush looked around to see if there was anypony around. He sighed in relief, since the area around the library was practically empty. He motioned for ShadowCaster to follow him.

"Doctor, if you dislike my plan so much, care to give me an idea? You seem very intelligent and more than capable of a simple plan to get information on somepony. Yet, you have not given me any suggestions at all."

Both ponies had begun to slowly walk in the direction of the market. After several hours camping out in a bush, they had both gotten rather hungry. Once they had arrived, ShadowCaster looked around to see if anything caught his eye. All of a sudden he felt something crash into him. When he opened his eyes he was greeted by a small filly standing on top of him.

"Buy some apples!"

"Uh, sure. I'll, um, buy some apples. Could you please get off of me? You standing on my ribs isn't the most comfortable thing."

The filly jumped off of ShadowCaster's chest and ran off. She returned moments later with a small basket full of apples. ShadowCaster pulled out the appropriate amount of bits from his pouch, which he had slung around his neck, and hoofed them to the filly. She took the bits and looked down at her flank, which was still missing a cutie mark. The filly mumbled something and sadly walked away.

"That was... interesting, to say the least." Said ShadowCaster in a slightly confused sounding voice.

The Doctor chuckled and took an apple from the basket. He took a bite out of it and swallowed.

"The ponies around here are all interesting. Granted, some more than others. And did you really need to buy a basket of apples? Two would have been fine."

ShadowCaster levitated the basket onto his back, and the two began to walk back in the direction of the library.

"Have you come up with any ideas, Doctor? I've been here almost an entire day and still don't have any information on any of the bearers of The Elements of Harmony."

They sat on a bench near the library. It had begun to get late, and the sun would begin to set soon. The Doctor sat there, munching on an apple, thinking of something that could be both safe for Twilight and her friends and beneficial to ShadowCaster.

"There is always confronting Twilight and just asking her about herself. I still don't trust you enough to confront her alone. But I am willing to let you speak to her while I'm accompanying you. That is, unless you don't care for a direct approach."

ShadowCaster looked over at the library. He noticed that it had a large amount of windows compared to many of the other houses and buildings in general. It was also much larger that most of the buildings in town. He looked up to see a small balcony with a telescope and a possible second entrance.

"No, I'm more of a fan of observation from afar. I have amazing, almost superpony, vision. I like to call my gift 'Eagle Vision'. It's actually directly connected to my special talent and my acceptance into the Brotherhood."

The Doctor looked over to ShadowCaster, a curious look on his face.

"You mean, you weren't born into the Brotherhood? I'm actually very surprised to find someone so faithful in its cause who isn't a direct descendent to an assassin. What made you join something like the Brotherhood?"

ShadowCaster stood up and hopped off of the bench. He looked up at the sun, which had already began to set on the horizon. He turned to the basket of apples and placed it on his back, then looked over his shoulder at The Doctor.

"It's getting late. We shouldn't linger around after dark for too long. As for your questions, I'll answer them back at your home. I don't feel very comfortable talking about my personal life out in public. I do hope you understand."

The Doctor hopped off the bench as well. He and the assassin began to walk in the direction of the TARDIS.

Meanwhile in Canterlot...

"Are you positive you saw one in Ponyville? It is not smart to lie to me, Captain. Are you absolutely sure you saw one of those assassins in that town?"

"Y-yes, Your Majesty! I saw him as I was scouting near the Everfree Forest in the morning. He openly wore the cloak and insignia of the Brotherhood. I followed him throughout the day, and he appears to have somepony from Ponyville helping him."

"Oh? And who was this pony that dared help a traitor?"

"I'm not sure who it was, but he was brown Earth pony. I couldn't make out his cutie mark from the distance I watched them."

"Very well, Captain. Continue to watch this assassin and his ally. Do not interfere unless you receive orders directly from me."

"Yes, Your Majesty!"

And so they dare show themselves in my country once again. I won't be as merciful as I was before.

Author's Note: I'm currently looking for a pre-reader or two, mainly for any grammatical errors I may have missed throughout my chapters. If anyone is interested, please feel free to message me.

Chapter 4: Storm on the Horizon

As the sun peered through the small windows of the TARDIS, The Doctor yawned and sat up on the mattress he had slept on. He and ShadowCaster had arrived late the previous night and simply set up a pair of mattresses across from each other and fell asleep almost instantly. He looked to his right to see an empty mattress. As looked around he noticed that the door was open just a crack. He stood up and opened the door, only to see ShadowCaster sitting on a stump, sharpening his rapier with a small stone.

"Morning, Doctor. Did you sleep well?" ShadowCaster said as he heard the door creak as it opened.

"No better than I normally do. How long have you been awake, exactly?"

ShadowCaster set down his sword against the stump, stood up, and stretched his forelegs into the air.

"Alright, don't ask me how uncomfortable that old mattress was. Anyway, I've only been up for maybe an hour, give or take a few minutes. And before you ask, I've been here the entire time." He turned and pointed to his equipment, "I've just been sitting here, cleaning and sharpening my blades."

The Doctor closed and locked the door to the TARDIS, and he and ShadowCaster began to walk down the road that led to Ponyville.

"I didn't plan on asking if you were here the entire time. Nopony really seems to know who you are or why you're here, so you should be fine going around town. Though we should still keep alert. Celestia has a tendency to keep an eye on ponies she deems useful or dangerous."

"If she does, then she should already know I'm here. But if she does, I should have been arrested by now." Said ShadowCaster, a worried look on his face, "There has to be reason she's left me alone. I'm starting to think visiting Twilight isn't such a good idea. For all we know, Celestia has ordered her to kill or capture me."

After several minutes they had arrived in the marketplace, keeping a brisk pace towards the library.

"I don't think Celestia is the type of pony to use her student as a way to kill you. I doubt Twilight even knows anything about the war, seeing as it's something kept secret for so long. But, if that is the case, then we should be prepared for anything. Not only is she very skilled when it comes to magic, she also has a very unique assistant."

As The Doctor finished talking, they arrived in front of the library. It was still early in the morning, but late enough for most ponies to be awake.

"I'm sure I can handle myself just fine, Doctor. I mean, being trained into an assassin is no easy process, and can be very brutal. Just knock on the door already."

The Doctor shrugged his shoulder and knocked on the door.

"Don't say I didn't warn you, ShadowCaster."

At first, there was no answer. The Doctor knocked again, this time the door opened to reveal a small green and purple dragon.

"Oh, hey Doctor. Is there something you need?" He said as he smiled at The Doctor.

"Hello, Spike. Is Twilight home at the moment? My friend and I need to have a word with her."

"Um.. Yeah, she's here. Did something happen?"

"Oh, no. Nothing happened, don't worry." The Doctor reassured, "We're just here to have a word with her. It's very important that we talk to her."

Spike moved aside to let The Doctor and ShadowCaster inside, and moved up the staircase into another room.

"So, Doctor... A dragon?" ShadowCaster asked in an annoyed tone.

"I said he was unique, didn't I? Luckily, he's still just an infant. For how long, I'm not entirely sure. By the way, what is your cover-up story?" The Doctor said as he heard the sound of hooves coming down the stairs.

As the two stallions looked towards the sound, they saw a very tired looking Twilight at the bottom of the steps.

"Oh, hello Doctor. Spike said you needed to talk with me. He also said you had an interesting looking friend with you."

As she spoke, she looked behind The Doctor to see a brown pony wearing very familiar looking outfit. She couldn't quite put her hoof on it, but she knew she'd seen them before someplace. Perhaps she had read about it, or possibly seen an illustration in a book.

"Uh.. Are you all right?"

When Twilight snapped out of her thought, she realized that she had been staring straight at the pony.

"Oh, I'm sorry. It's just that you don't look familiar. Are you from out of town?" Twilight said with an awkward laugh.

"Yes, I'm a student from Detrot. I came here under orders from my teacher to learn about you, your friends. and the Elements of Harmony. I hope this isn't an inconvenient time for me to visit."

Twilight relaxed a little and grew a bit excited to hear that he was also a student much like herself. She motioned them to the sofa in the room and the three ponies sat down.

"Not at all. I'm actually glad to have some company. I was just about to take a break from my studies. I've been reading up on myths and legends of Equestrian fable. By the way, you never introduced yourself."

"Oh, right. My name is ShadowCaster." He said with a sheepish grin, "I'm currently studying the events concerning the Elements of Harmony. I've done research on Nightmare Moon, Discord, and many other events. But I had yet to know anything about the mares that control the Elements. The Doctor has been kind enough to show me around town and let me stay in his home until it is time for me to depart."

Twilight looked to The Doctor with a smile.

"That's very kind of you, Doctor. Even more so, considering you rarely let anypony stay in your home. How did he react to the size of it?"

"Better than most, but it still took a couple of hours. He's brighter than most of the ponies around here, and he comprehended the idea of it. For the most part at least. Anywho, I think we should get to business, since ShadowCaster is only staying for a few days at the most."

Twilight levitated a few notebooks, quills, and a bottle of ink to the nearby table.

"Of course, what did you want to know?"

Meanwhile in Canterlot

"Your Majesty, I have news concerning the assassin in Ponyville!"

"Do you now, Captain? What have you discovered?"

"It appears that the assassin's ally is that pony that arrived some time ago as if out of thin air. He goes by the name 'The Doctor'."

"Good, anything else or is that all?"

"Yes, it also seems as if the assassin has paid a visit to your student, Twilight Sparkle. He had apparently been watching her, or at least attempting to do so, since he had arrived."

"Oh, has he? This may prove to be problem if the Brotherhood plans to kill her or any of her friends. Even more troublesome if she accidently tells him too much."

"Would you like me to arrest him? I can send several Royal Guards to apprehend him."

"No, that could draw unwanted suspicion from either the Brotherhood or Twilight Sparkle herself. Get me a quill and paper. I need to send a letter to Twilight."

"Right away, your Majesty."

Author's Note: I'm sorry this took so long to get out. I've been busy, but I should have more time to put into this for a bit.

Chapter 5: Not So Hidden Blade

ShadowCaster, The Doctor, and Twilight spent the day asking and answering questions about Twilight and her friends. There was a large stack of notebooks filled with everything that had been said, word for word. Along side it were piles of empty bottles of ink and broken quills. The sun had already begun to set when Spike entered the room.

"Hey, Twi, a letter just came from Princess Celestia."

"Thank you, Spike. Just read it out load."

Spike cleared his throat and spoke in the somewhat formal voice he used to read letters from Celestia.

"My Faithful Student Twilight Sparkle,

I have come to learn that you and your friends may be in great danger. A pony has arrived in Ponyville seeking information on you and your friends, information that he may use to capture and possibly even kill you with. I fear he has already made allies in Ponyville, and has even come into contact with you. If a pony dressed in a cloak of purple and blue tries to approach you, do not run. Do not hide. He is a cunning and capable killer. Face him, and if possible, capture him. If it is necessary, kill him.

Princess Celestia."

By the time Spike finished ready the letter, ShadowCaster had already made a mad dash towards the door. He found that it had been locked by Twilight's magic, and turned to see a scared dragon, a shocked unicorn, and an angry earth pony.

"You... you came here to get information so you could kill them? I should've suspected that from the start, but you seemed different. You had something about you that made me believe you. Now I see that I made a mistake in trusting you."

The Doctor had taken a step forward, only to have a blade in front of his throat. In the state of shock in the room, ShadowCaster had unsheathed his rapier and had prepared it. He had hoped he wouldn't have to use it.

"I didn't come here to kill. All I came here to get was information, I swear. I was ordered to get information that could connect the Elements to the Templars and return to my masters. I don't want to hurt anypony, but I will if I have to. So, unlock the door and I'll be on my way."

The Doctor didn't budge. The two behind him had began to back away slowly. ShadowCaster noticed this and levitated his dagger to Spike's face. That was when Twilight finally broke out of her shock and began to get angry.

"Leave them out of this. It's me that you're after, so if anypony should have a blade facing them, its me."

She began to step toward the Assassin, who in turn began to back towards the door.

"Don't come any closer, I'm warning you. This doesn't need to happen."

Just as he spoke, Twilight's horn began to glow. Behind her, much to ShadowCaster's disbelief, several shelves from the library began to lift off the ground. They started to land around the Assassin, making a wall around him.

Right, Element of Magic. Should've seen something like this coming. But then again, these ponies aren't killers.

"Alright, you've trapped me. Do you have any idea of what you're going to do with me, though? You wouldn't send an innocent pony to his death, would you?"

ShadowCaster's horn ceased glowing, making the sword and dagger drop to the floor. Twilight levitated the blades into the room upstairs.

"Innocent?! You tried to kill the Doctor and Spike! I don't think you'd be classified as innocent! Even the Princess Herself said that you're dangerous!" Twilight yelled through the shelves.

"And you believe her just like that? Tell me, do you have any proof? I've been here for several days, and had plenty of chances to kill you. If I planned on doing so, why would have I wasted my time wandering around town?"

Twilight had to stop to think for a moment. True, he had been in Ponyville for a couple of days. True, he could've killed her sooner. But, the only thing that didn't add up was the Princess. She didn't really expect her to kill a pony in cold blood, did She?

"I'm not entirely sure what to make of this situation, but if Princess Celestia says that you're dangerous then I believe Her. "

She looked behind her to see the Doctor and Spike standing. One had a look of fear in his eyes, and the other had a slightly emotionless look.

"Spike," she said, snapping the dragon from his state of shock, "Take a letter to the Princess. Let her know we've captured the pony she warned us about. Tell her to send the Royal Gaurd to arrest him."

That was all ShadowCaster had to hear. He backed up against the wall and bolted at the other side. As he got closer he jumped up, grabbing one of the shelves and began climbing up them. He reached the top to see the two startled ponies and dragon.

"I'm sorry, but I can't let you do that, Twilight. Tell your so-called ruler that she can't catch me. And do tell her we are always watching her."

ShadowCaster jumped onto the railing of the stairs, moved through Twilight's room, and jumped off the balcony he spotted the previous day. He landed in a very familiar bush, and began to run towards the Everfree Forest. He decided he had to hide, at least until he had a better plan. He still didn't have the information he needed, but he did learn a lot about Twilight and her friends.

As he ran along the dirt path, he could see the TARDIS come into view. He noticed that his bag had been left outside. He walked over to it and levitated a small black book out of it. The cover was completely blank other than the title of the book, Crosses and Daggers.

This might just be useful after all. If I can get them to read this, it might help them understand why I'm here in the first place.

ShadowCaster levitated the book into his cloak and kept moving down the path. He could see two things ahead of him. The entrance to the forest and a small cottage. It was dark out already, and a light could be seen in the cottage. As he got closer he could see the silhouette of a pegasus flying inside.

Maybe this pony can take me in for the night. I can't just keep running. I'll tire out and that'll just make it easier for me to get caught.

ShadowCaster made his way to the front door and knocked lightly, trying not to make too much noise. He could hear soft talking, and the sound of a foot tapping inside. After a few seconds the door opened to reveal a yellow pegasus and a small white rabbit.

Meanwhile in Canterlot

"Your Majesty, the Assassin escaped your student. A letter arrived from her asking for help from the Royal Guards."

"I didn't think she could catch him, but it now reveals him as the enemy."

"Shall I send my ponies to Ponyville, Princess?"

"No, I have a better idea."

"And that is?"

"Captain, tell my Templars that tonight they go to war."

Chapter 6: Friend or Foe?

Author's Note: This is a Fluttershy centered chapter, but the thing is that she's not as shy in my fic as she is in others and even the show. If anything, Fluttershy is much more comfortable around other ponies. Just giving you readers a heads up beforehand.

"I'm very sorry to bother you at such an inconvenient hour, but I'm new around here and was hoping you could take me in for the night. I can pay you for any troubles."

In front of ShadowCaster stood an obviously shocked Pegasus mare. She hadn't been expecting any company at the time and was surprised to see the stallion standing at her door.

"Oh... It's no trouble at all. I can't just leave somepony out in the night. Please, come in."

The mare moved aside to let ShadowCaster in. He looked around the room, and took in the environment.

Hmm, homey. A bit too outdoorsy for my taste, but beggars can't be choosers.

"Thank you very much. My name is ShadowCaster. And you would be?"

ShadowCaster held out a hoof in front of the mare, which she gently shook.

"Nice to meet you, ShadowCaster. My name is Fluttershy."

Uh, oh. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all. By the moon, my plans suck.

"Fluttershy? As in the Element of Kindness? I'm very honored to meet you. If it's not too much trouble, could you tell me about yourself? I've always been interested in the Elements of Harmony."

That's it. Try and keep any conversations about her for as long as possible. Gotta think of a believable story.

"Oh, I'm not really all that interesting. I would like to know more about you, though. You don't seem to be from Ponyville and you have a very unique style of clothing."

And theres the sound of another plan failing.

Fluttershy had studied the cloak that ShadowCaster wore. For some reason the colors reminded her a bit of Princess Luna. She and her guest made their way into her living room and sat on the couch in the center of the room.

"Uh, alright. Ask anything you'd like. I'll try to answer to the best of my ability."

"For starters, where are you from? I've never seen you around, and this is a pretty small town."

Come on, think of something! Anything!

"I'm from, uh, Detrot. I'm a student at a university there, and have lived there for most of my life." ShadowCaster put on a smile, trying not to seem as nervous as he truly was.

At least half of that is the truth.

"Oh, that's interesting. Are you studying magic, or is there something else that you're focused on?"

"Magic has been the main focus of my studies since I'm not very skilled at it. Even though I've grown up healthy and had plenty of practice, I've always been very weak when it came to magic. To this day, I'm still learning to master and control my full potential."

At the thought of his magical skill, ShadowCaster's smile had disappeared. Fluttershy had been quick to pick up that his abilities were a bit of a touchy subject.

"I"m sorry if my questions are making you uncomfortable. You must be tired, and it's beginning to get late. I don't have a guest room, so you can take my room for the night."

Fluttershy stood up from the couch and started walking across the room to a set of stairs. As she got to the base of the stairs, ShadowCaster stopped her.

"I couldn't ask you to do that. I may be a guest, but this is your home. I'm perfectly fine sleeping down here."

The closer to the door, the better, he silently said to himself.

Fluttershy had been surprised by his protest to taking her room, but she was a little happy that he did. The couch was very uncomfortable to sleep on, as she had learned long ago.

"If you insist," she said, feeling a little guilty for not persuading him enough, "I'll just go get you a blanket. I"ll be right back."

With that, Fluttershy trotted up the stairs, leaving ShadowCaster alone in the room. Or so he thought. He felt something soft hit his leg, and he turned to look at a small rabbit tapping his foot on the ground.

"Hey there, little guy," he said as he knelt down to the rabbit's eye level, "How are you doing?"

The small rabbit simply gave him an unamused expression, followed by him pointing at his eyes, then at ShadowCaster. As the two heard the sound of hoofsteps from upstairs, the rabbit hopped out of the room. ShadowCaster stood up and turned to see Fluttershy coming down the stairs with a blanket. She noticed the rabbit hopping into the next room.

"Oh, I hope Angel Bunny wasn't bothering you. He tends to be unfriendly towards new ponies."

"No, it's fine. Though he does seem a bit protective."

ShadowCaster levitated the blanket onto the couch. He then took of his cloak and set it down on the ground next to the couch. Fluttershy had noticed that under the sleeves of the cloak, he wore two large silver gauntlets.

"I'm sorry if I'm being too curious, but what are those?" she said, pointing at the gauntlets.

Looking down at his hidden blades, he remembered how he got them.

"These belonged to my father. They're family heirlooms, passed down from father to son throughout the generations. From what my father told me, I'm the 18th stallion to receive them. Every stallion to get them before me had amazing success in their lives because of them."

"Oh, so they're like good luck charms?"

"Yeah, in a way. These have helped me in tough situations countless times before, and will probably help me countless more times in the future."

ShadowCaster took his gauntlets off and set them down on his cloak so that Fluttershy could not see the blades at the bottom.

"I'm sorry, but I'm really tired. Perhaps we could continue this in the morning?"

"Of course, I'll see you in the morning."

As he blew out the candles that illuminated the room, Fluttershy made her way up the stairs. After a few second later, he heard the sound of a door lightly closing. He made his way back to the couch and laid down, pulling the blanket over him.

No wonder she's the Element of Kindness if she's willing to take in a complete stranger for the night, and even offers him the only bed in the house. Maybe they aren't with the Templars.

And with that thought, ShadowCaster drifted off to sleep, completely exhausted from the day's turn of events.

ShadowCaster was jolted awake by the sudden sound of knocking. He looked around to see that the sun had barely begun to rise. He got up and silently made his way over to the window. He looked out and saw what he had been afraid would be there.

Outside the door stood a group of ponies. He instantly recognized Twilight and the Doctor. With them were four other mares, the rest of the Elements. He backed away from the window, apparently not noticed by the group outside. He turned to see Fluttershy, still half asleep, at the bottom of the steps.

"Who's knocking this early? The sun is barely starting to rise."

I can't get caught, not now.

"I'm not sure, but it sounds like a group. If you'll excuse me, I need to head to the bathroom."

He quickly made his way around Fluttershy and ran up the stairs. A bit confused by his rush, she walked over to the door and opened it, revealing her friends and the Doctor.

"Good morning, Fluttershy. I know it's a bit early, but there's something really important that we all need to talk about. Can we come in?"

Chapter 7: A Rock and a Hard Place

Author's Note: Sorry for putting this up a day late. An hour of gaming and skyping with friends turned into a 16 hour long session. I really need to learn to keep better track of time.

"Of course, but what seems to be the problem?" Fluttershy said as she guided the group into her living room.

"Last night the Doctor, Spike, and myself were attacked by a pony claiming to be seeking information on the Elements of Harmony. Princess Celestia sent a letter warning me about him, but by that time he already tricked the Doctor into helping him and was brought to the library."

Fluttershy had to take a moment to think about the situation. In her eyes, hurting another pony was something she just couldn't imagine. If somepony out there tried to hurt her friends, she had to help catch him.

"By the way, Fluttershy," Twilight said, pulling her from her thoughts, "Is there somepony else here? I thought I heard another voice before you opened the door."

Fluttershy, looking back at the stairs, nodded, "Yes, somepony asked me if they could stay here for the night. He said he was new to Ponyville, and I felt bad about leaving him out at night."

Twilight and the Doctor exchanged glances before the Doctor spoke, "And where is your guest at? You're talking about how he stayed here for the night, yet he's nowhere to be seen?"

Fluttershy began to think that it was strange that ShadowCaster rushed upstairs when her friends had arrived. She didn't think that he was the type of pony that would hurt another. She moved those thoughts out of her mind and went back to the question she was asked.

"He's upstairs at the moment. You're knocking had woken him up, and he went to use the restroom. Though he was in a rush, it didn't seem all that strange at the time."

The Doctor looked back at the group of mares behind him. Sitting there, having been quiet for the most part, were AppleJack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and, surprisingly, Pinkie Pie. He motioned towards the stairs, and received a nod from Rainbow Dash. She stood up and walked to and up the stairs.

Upstairs

ShadowCaster had locked himself in the bathroom upstairs. After realizing that he had no way out since, for some reason, there were no windows on the second floor. He hadn't been able to check Fluttershy's room for a means of escape as it had been locked.

By this point, he had already began to panic. There were 7 of them against him alone. Even with those against fighting, he was still outnumbered. He couldn't see a way out of this, and he probably didn't have much time until somepony came upstairs looking for him.

Almost as if on cue, he heard the sound of hoofsteps coming up the wooden stairs. They were slow, but wouldn't take long for whoever it was to reach the top. He had to think of something that could give him a chance at escaping. Then he remembered something one of his old teachers had told him.

If you can't sneak or fight your way out, do the next best thing. Charge it head on.

After taking the time to facehoof, he remembered who had said that to him. The stubborn drunkard with a concussion.

Ponyville Gates
Three hours earlier

"So, this is the town, eh?"

"Yeah. From the looks of it, we should be able to find the Assassin in a matter of hours."

"Even with a town this size, we have no leads as to where he could be. How are we going to go about finding him?"

"Worry not, for the Sun will guide us. We will find our pony."

Upstairs

When he started calming down, ShadowCaster noticed that the hoofsteps stopped. That meant that either they left or a Pegasus was sent up after him. There was a better chance of it being the latter, but he was hoping that the group had left.

After a brief silence, ShadowCaster decided to move closer to the door and try to listen for anypony on the other side of the door. As he moved closer, somepony tried to open the door.

"Hello? Is there anypony in there? If you're trying to hide, theres no point. We know you're here, and we aren't going anywhere anytime soon."

With the pony on the other side saying that, ShadowCaster didn't have any other options. He unlocked the door and moved back.

"At least you're willing to be smart about this. We just want to ask you some questions," the pony said as she opened the door to the bathroom.

As the door opened, ShadowCaster ran straight at the rainbow maned mare on the other side. Surprised, Rainbow Dash hovered out of the way of the running pony, giving chase shortly after. ShadowCaster bolted down the stairs to see the group standing on the other side of the room.

"There he is! Don't let him escape!" Was all he heard as the front door magically shut, causing him to slam headfirst into it. He fell back, staring at the ceiling, his vision getting slightly blurry.

"Twilight, I think you may have over done it, just a tad." Said Rarity, in a somewhat concerned tone.

"Hey! Look! He was cross-eyed for a second there! Kinda like Dizty!" Pinkie Pie yelled, getting a few strange stares for the sudden outburst. But, they were used to it for the most part.

"All other things aside, we can finally start getting some answers. Rainbow Dash and AppleJack, I need you two to stand watch outside. We don't know if he has anypony else with him, and we can't take any chances." The Doctor ordered, in which the two mares obliged and walked out the front door.

"Um, Doctor?" Twilight asked, "What are we going to do with him? We're not going to hurt him, are we?"

The Doctor looked down at the barely conscious pony on the ground. He didn't plan on hurting him, but he did plan on getting some real information from him. "I'm not sure. If it gets us what we want, than maybe. Though, from what we've seen, he can be very tough."

Twilight looked at the Doctor with both fear and understanding. She then looked at ShadowCaster who had begun to start coming to again. After a nod from the Doctor, she aimed her horn at ShadawCaster, casted a spell, and knocked him unconscious once again.

Ponyville Square
Present

"Any luck finding him yet?"

"Not for me, but a few say that they saw a pony by his description heading towards the Everfree Forest."

"Is there anything out their out in that area which he could use to hide?"

"Yes, there is a small cottage out there that belongs to one of the bearers of the Elements. He could be hiding there, but it's highly unlikely."

"It's the only lead we have. We should head there immediately."

Chapter 8: Enemy

When ShadowCaster awoke, he found himself in a dark, seemingly empty room. All he could remember was trying to run from the Elements and failing, yet again. When he tried to move, he noticed that he was tied to a chair. He quickly started to move his hooves, but with no luck.

"There's no point in try to get out of those restraints. They are magic after all." Said a voice from somewhere in the room. "All you need to do is tell me why you came here. And I mean tell me everything."

ShadowCaster sighed. "You know, Doctor, if you want to interrogate somepony you should try to be more intimidating."

There was a rustling sound followed by a few whispers. After a brief silence, the Doctor stepped into view. "How did you know it was me? I wasn't in sight and it could have been anypony talking to you." He said, sounding more annoyed than confused.

"Its pretty obvious," ShadowCaster replied, "First of all, you're the only stallion that knows anything about me. Also, those mares wouldn't hurt a fly."

The Doctor sighed. "I told them this wouldn't work. Sadly, nopony ever listens the me. Alright, enough of this." He said, stepping closer. "Why did you come to Ponyville, and what is the Brotherhood planning?"

"I've already told you why I'm here. I came to watch those six mares and make sure that the Templars aren't using them." ShadowCaster said. "As for what we're planning, I'm not saying a word. I am no traitor."

The Doctor was silent for a few moments, deep in thought. "Why would the Templars even need the Elements of Harmony? They have enough power, control, and influence to stop the Brotherhood on their own." He turned back to ShadowCaster. "Unless you lot have done something to get them riled up and worried. Did your higher-ups mention what they would do with the information you came to gather."

ShadowCaster closed his eyes. "Like I said, I'm not telling you anything. I'm not going to turn my back on my brothers." He said.

The Doctor started to get frustrated. He walked closer to ShadowCaster, and spoke to him angrily. "If you don't tell me what I want to know, there will be serious consequences. I have done things that would leave the most horrible of monsters with looks of horror and disgust."

ShadowCaster laughed aloud. "Do you really think that threatening me will change my mind? You have no idea what we go through just to enter the Brotherhood." He narrowed his eyes with a smirk. "Do. Your. Worst."

The Doctor stared down with the tied pony in front of him. They remained like that for several seconds, but in the end he looked away. He turned and started walking into the darkness that surrounded them. "We'll continue this later. I will break you." He opened a door, letting in a flood of light, then quickly closed it.

ShadowCaster was left alone in the pitch black room. Not a sound could be heard, inside or outside of the room. He tried to move his hooves a little more, but with no luck. There was no way for him to escape. They would keep him like this for as long as it took them to break him, which wasn't going to be an easy task, or until he fashioned a way to escape.

His eyes had begun to adjust to the darkness. He could see much clearer than several minutes before. After a quick inspection, he saw that the room he was kept in looked much like a normal basement, meaning he was either still inside the home of Fluttershy or somewhere else nearby. That also meant that there wouldn't be any real form of security. They had kept this within themselves. Or so he thought.

______________________________________________________________________________

"Nothing? Not even a word?" Twilight asked.

The Doctor sighed as he sat down on the library's couch. "No, he took being captured better than I expected. Its almost like he's used to it." He said.

"Maybe we should just beat it out of him? That'll show 'em!" Rainbow Dash said angrily.

"No, we can't do that! We can't just hurt another pony!" Yelled Fluttershy.

"I'm not sure I can consider him a true pony. He's an Assassin. They're trained killers, fighting for their own jumbled beliefs." The Doctor said. "I was there for the first time the Assassins came around. It wasn't a pretty sight."

Twilight looked around at the other six ponies in the room with her. "Then what are we supposed to do? He won't tell us anything, and I don't think any of us are capable of torturing him."

"I don't know but-" The Doctor was cut off by the sounds of knocking. "Now, who could that be? Its barely noon." He walked to the door and opened it to reveal three heavily armored ponies. Their armor had the new symbol of Princess Celestia on it and was painted red and white.

"Is this the residence of a Twilight Sparkle?" One of the ponies asked.

Twilight made her way next to the Doctor. "Yes, that would be me. Can I help you with something?"

"We are of the Princess's, err, special forces. We were told that you had a unique visitor and she sent us to assist you." Another of the ponies said.

The Doctor laughed. "Ha! Special forces? Yeah, right. I know exactly who you three are and why you're here. I'm telling you right now, leave. We all know how this will end if I let you through this door, and I don't care what you say, its not happening." He said sternly.

The first armored pony stepped closer to the Doctor. "And who exactly are you?" He asked.

"Why, I'm the Doctor!" He said, putting a hoof to his chest proudly.

The three armored ponies shared glances, then turned back to the Doctor. "Then we are to arrest you for acts of terrorism against Princess Celestia and Equestria."

"That's righ- Wait, what?!" He yelled, his eyes widening. "I'm no terrorist! What could have possibly given you all that idea?!"

"You were seen assisting the Assassin. Now, give us the Assassin and come with us. You shall be tried and punished by Celestia herself." The third pony in the group said.

"Uh, right. Let me think about that for a second." He said. Suddenly he shut the door, and pulled his sonic screwdriver out of his... pocket. He pointed it at the door and a click from its lock was heard a few seconds later. "Alrighty then. Now that the Templars know where our Assassin friend is and they think I'm helping him, we have a very, very, very big problem. That door should hold them for a little."

A loud crash was heard and the group turned to see the head of an axe lodged in the door. It was pulled out and struck against the door again.

"What was that about the door holding them, Doctor?" Twilight said.

The Doctor started looking around the room. "Let me think, let me think. I'm being considered a terrorist for giving an Assassin a tour of Ponyville and those ponies outside are probably under orders to kill our tied up friend. But, why?"

"Wait, orders to kill? But they're Celestia's personal guard. Why would she tell them to kill somepony?" Twilight asked.

The Doctor turned to look at the six mares behind him. "Listen to me. There are things that you are not meant to know. Horrible things, all cause by the Princesses. Have you noticed that Princess Luna hasn't been around lately? Well, there's a reason for that." He said.

"And what exactly is that reason?" Twilight asked.

"I can't let you know that. It would change everything. You all need to leave, go home. Act as if none of this ever happened. These ponies won't hurt you, you're too valuable of assets for them to lose." The Doctor said.

"But-" Twilight said before being interrupted by sounds from the door being destroyed.

"No 'buts'! Just, please, trust me on this. I'll take care of everything. Just go!" The Doctor yelled.

The six mares stood there, shocked, for a few seconds. They all turned to leave through the back door. The Doctor turned back and headed into the basement.

______________________________________________________________________________

"And you haven't gotten a single letter or anything from him?"

"Unfortunately not. It has been almost five four days. He should have sent a report by now."

"And so, you want me to go save his flank. Again."

"If he needs the saving, yes. Even if not, remain there with him."

"As you wish. I should arrive there by the end of the day. How will I find him?"

"That is your task, not mine. You will figure that out on your own."

"Of course. Stupid colt, always getting himself in trouble. How he got this assignment, I'll never know."

______________________________________________________________________________

As the Doctor came through the door, ShadowCaster could hear the sounds from upstairs. He looked up at the stallion that came into the room. "Hey, back already? If you expect me to talk, don't even bother." He said.

The Doctor walked right up to his face. "Listen to me. The Templars are here, and they're looking for you. They think I'm helping you, which means that they'll kill me, too, if they get the chance. I've sent the Elements home. They won't be harmed." He said.

ShadowCaster just stared at him intently. "And why are you telling me this? That's perfect right? I'll be capture, tortured for information, and then be killed. Just what you wanted, isn't it?"

"No, I never wanted this to happen. I really hate to say this, but I need your help."

ShadowCaster laughed. "After everything, you expect me to just help you? You knocked me unconscious and tied me to a chair. You even threatened me. What's in it for me if I do help you?" He said.

"Oh, I don't know. I could just leave you here with three heavily armored Templars." The Doctor said in an annoyed tone.

That shut ShadowCaster up. He quickly grew nervous. "Alright, you've made your point. Untie me, give me my gear, and I'll handle this." He quickly said.

The Doctor went about untying the Assassin, whose cloak and various blades were all in a corner of the room. In about half a minute, he had the cloak on and his blades hooked and sheathed onto his belt. He two gauntlets were back on his hooves, and he tested them a few times.

"I'm all set. Let me just ask one question: Why haven't the Templars gotten down here yet?" ShadowCaster asked, "We've given them plenty of time, right?"

The Doctor looked back at the door, silently thinking. "You're right," He said after a while, "its been about three or so minutes. Surely it can't take that long to break down a wooden door with axes."

"Wait, did you say axes? Typical Templars don't carry axes!" ShadowCaster yelled in panic.

"Why are you freaking out? And what do you mean 'typical Templars'?" Asked the confused Doctor.

ShadowCaster started pacing. "Most Templars carry broadswords and similar weapons. Only Guard Captains and... and..." He abruptly ended the sentence with a gulp.

"And what?" The Doctor asked.

ShadowCaster shook his head. "Only Guard Captains and Templar Knights tend to carry such weapons. Tell me, what did their armor look like?" He asked.

The Doctor tapped his hoof against his chin. "Let me see. Oh, right! They were wearing white robes over steel armor. They had the Templar cross on it, too. Does that really matter?" He replied.

The Assassin sighed. "Yeah, it looks like we're up against Knights. And before you ask, they are both important and dangerous. There are only about sixty of them across the world, spread throughout the different nations that have Templar influence. They are the best and strongest the Templars have." He said.

"Can you beat them? Or at least fight them?" The Doctor asked worriedly.

"Let's see. I'm still considered a weak fighter. I'm more experienced with stealth assassinations. Oh, and I'm weak with magic, too. What do you think?" ShadowCaster said with a slightly angry tone.

The Doctor let out a sigh. "Well then, what should we-" He was cut off by the sound of a crash and several heavy hoofsteps. He turned back to the Assassin. "Run?" He asked.

"Run."

______________________________________________________________________________

A/N: Well, hey! This is finally back! I have to say, it felt good writing this again. And to know that this has 1,000 views makes me really happy. While Legendary is still my main priority, know that I'll try to update this more often. This chapter took quite a while to write, mostly due to the lack of ideas. Eventually, though, something came to me. Hope you enjoy it!

Also, I'm looking for someone who can do some cover art for this, If anyone is interested in helping with that, please send me a message.

Chapter 9: Wrong Place, Wrong Time

"So what's the plan?" The Doctor asked as he and ShadowCaster ran through Ponyville's streets.

"Keep running, at least for now. There's no way I can handle those three on my own. A Knight can easily overpower me, and all of them together would slaughter me. We need to find a place to hide and wait it out." The Assassin replied.

"That's your plan?!" The Doctor yelled. "I though you Assassins were all about taking the enemy out as soon as you saw the chance! We can't just hide in a hole until they leave!"

ShadowCaster stopped. "Oh, and what do you want us to do? Talk to them? Our two groups have been at war several thousand years! There is no room for negotiation between us, it's either we kill them or they kill us! The second you decided to help me, your little world of 'love and toleration' disappeared. You're just as much a part of this as I am now."

"My world was never 'love and toleration'. I've seen a lot of death in my time," The Doctor replied, "and I'm no stranger to it. But there is always another way to do things. All it takes is a little bit of determination."

"Determination? Oh, the Templars have plenty of determination. They're determined to control the entire known world." ShadowCaster said.

"That can't be all they're after. There would have to be more to it than just world domination." The Doctor suggested.

"If there is, than we don't know what it could be. Their goal has always been as plain to see as ours." ShadowCaster said.

"Or so you think." The Doctor said.

ShadowCaster got a bit angry. "Look, do you want to discuss our war or do you want to actually find a safe place to stay? I might be able to get a message back to our headquarters to send some help."

"Do you really need it? I mean, you seem to be somewhat capable." The Doctor asked.

"Yeah, I do. If there are Knights here, that means that they're planning something. Ponyville could end up becoming the front lines, it being so close to Canterlot and having such little Templar influence."

"Front lines? As in, you all would move into Ponyville? That's insane! There are innocent ponies in this town, who have no idea what's going on!" The Doctor exclaimed.

ShadowCaster let out a sigh. "Yeah, I'm well aware of that. But in the words of a great Assassin, 'The ends justify the means'. The Brotherhood taking a position in Ponyville could change everything."

"The ends justify the means? I know who said that, and I'll let you know now that I don't agree with his ideas. That is an extremely selfish way to go about things. Lives have been unnecessarily lost due to ideas like that." The Doctor said.

"We have our ways of doing things. We don't care if others don't like them, and we're certainly not going to change our ways because they seem selfish and cruel. You apparently know a lot about us, so tell me, what is our motto?" ShadowCaster asked before turning around and continuing to walk.

"I'd rather not say it, sorry. Let's just get moving before the Templars find us." The Doctor said.

"Alright, any idea as to where we can go? You've lived here for a while, so you should know where most ponies would never go, right?" ShadowCaster asked.

The Doctor tapped his hoof against his chin. "The only place that comes in mind is the Everfree Forest. Most ponies around here avoid it due to it's dangers."

"And those dangers are?"

"Oh, normal things. Manticores, Cockatrices, and Timberwolves. Nothing we shouldn't be able to handle, right?" The Doctor asked.

"Yeah, that will work. We have a nice, dark place on the outskirts of town. Protection from intruders and anypony that comes looking for us. Are there any caves or shacks in the forest to hide out in?"

The Doctor thought for a moment. "Well, there's one cave that I know of. Though something already lives there."

"I'm sure we can handle it." The Assassin said.

"Eh, no. We won't be able to handle it, not at all. The chaos it caused the last time was massive." The Doctor said, trying to to convince ShadowCaster.

"Nah, I'm sure we'll be fine. I've dealt with wildlife before, so it shouldn't take too long." He said as he waved a hoof.

The Doctor sighed. "And here I was hoping I wouldn't see any more deaths." He said under his breath.

"What was that?" ShadowCaster asked.

"Oh, nothing. Just talking to myself. Now then, let's get to that cave, I guess." The Doctor said, unenthusiastically.

______________________________________________________________________________

As the mare, clad in purple and blue robes, climbed off of the train, she took a good look at the town. Small, happy, and safe. The three things she had little to no knowledge about. She had been brought up in Stalliongrad, raised in the dangerous streets with the others of the Assassin bloodline. The city was large and infested with their enemies. Only the strong and the lucky survived.

She would have to just do what she does best. Adjust and adapt. She would have to integrate herself to be able to find out where ShadowCaster is. Or to find out if he's died or not. Either way, she was to finish his mission if he failed. And she didn't like that, let alone the fact that he got the assignment to begin with.

She shook the thought from her mind. She had to start her search as soon as possible, she just didn't know where. The Mentor said the Brotherhood had no informants or moles in Ponyville, due to it being so close to Canterlot. He had no idea whether ShadowCaster had made allies in the time between his arrival and now.

Looking around she noticed a rather large building in the center of the town. She could climb to the top and get a good look around. She would run the risk of being spotted by Templar scouts, but since she was a skilled climber and had excellent eye sight, it wouldn't take all that long. Only a minute or two, at the most.

She made her way to the building. It wasn't extremely tall, but tall enough for her to be able to see most if not all of the town. She readied herself and began her ascent, by crack, ledge, and other small deformities in the building. She quickly reached the top of the building and climbed onto a small flag pole that was the tip. From there she saw the entirety of Ponyville.

A few things caught her eye, like several larger and unique building around the town. The large forest just beyond the town limits also seemed interesting to her. Looking around for a way down from the building, she noticed a medium-sized cart of hay. Seeing it as her only way down, she spread her hooves and dived off of the building. After several seconds of free fall, she landed in the cart. A quick look around from inside the hay revealed nopony was around, she exited.

As she made her way towards the forest she had seen from the top of the building, she failed to noticed that three certain ponies had seen her from the moment she entered town. They saw her climb on top of the town hall, jump into the hay, and walk away seemingly unnoticed. They began to follow her, in hopes of killing both the Assassins and the traitorous resident.

______________________________________________________________________________

"I"m really starting to regret trusting you, Doctor." ShadowCaster said in an annoyed whisper.

"Oh, what possible reason could there be for that? I told you something lived in this cave, didn't I?" The Doctor responded, acting innocent.

"Yes, you did. Though, you missed one important piece of information." The Assassin said, becoming increasingly angry.

"And what would that be?" His companion said.

"Oh, I don't know. Maybe the fact that this cave belonged to an Ursa Minor!" The cloaked stallion yelled on accident.

"Yes, start yelling and hollering. That'll be sure keep us hidden. You said you could handle it, though. I don't see why you're freaking out."

"I thought it would be something, you know, at least close to my size. I can't fight something that could literally swallow me whole."

"Stop exaggerating," The Doctor said, waving a hoof, "It would have to still chew a few times before swallowing you."

ShadowCaster rolled his eyes. "Yeah, that makes me feel so much better about this. I suggest we leave while we still have a chance."

"That's probably a good idea. We can look around for another place to hide out. That or we can just wander around aimlessly until something interesting happens."

"I prefer the option that might actually be helpful. Let's get out of here before this thing wakes up."

______________________________________________________________________________

"Alright, it looks like she's stopped for a break. Should we strike now, Basilisk?" One of the three Knights asked the other.

"Not quite yet, Seeker. She may lead us to the other Assassin and the traitor. I want you to keep a diligent eye on her. I will take Wayward and we shall continue to look around in hopes of finding the other two on our own. Perhaps even lure them together, and capture them all at once." The Knight name Basilisk said.

"Capture? You mean we aren't to kill them once we get the chance?" Seeker asked.

"No. Her Highness has ordered we bring the three to her. She wants to know why there are Assassins this far west. They have little to no influence in this half of Equestria." Basilisk replied.

Wayward gave a simple grunt, getting the attention of the two Knights. He then gestured to the Assassin mare, who had begun to move once more.

"Alright, Seeker, keep on her tail. Stay out of sight and try not to get into combat. We will continue on." Basilisk order. He and Wayward then began to head towards the more mountainous area of the forest. "Wayward, when we find them, please control yourself. We cannot afford to fail. The Princess will have our head if we do."

Wayward simply gave an indifferent grunt, and kept moving.

______________________________________________________________________________

"Still nothing! We've been walking around for almost an hour and have yet to find somewhere else to stay." ShadowCaster grumbled.

"Well, maybe we should just set up a camp in the forest. Light tends to be blocked by the dense plant-life, so a fire should be concealed. There are plenty of non-poisonous fruits here, and we could use the trees as a place to sleep." The Doctor suggested.

"Yeah, that could work. I should have thought of tha-" He suddenly stopped. He kept quiet and stood perfectly still. The Doctor quickly followed suit. The Assassin slowly turned his head back to the Doctor and whispered, "We're not alone out here. I can see two other ponies watching us in the trees. They're big, so they're likely the Templars. Follow my lead."

Receiving a nod from his ally, ShadowCaster sat down on the ground. "Well," He said aloud, making sure he could be heard, but not making it obvious that he knew the Templars were there, "we should set up camp for now. It's going to get dark soon. I'll get some firewood while you prepare the campfire itself."

The Assassin walked off into the dark forest and, once out of sight, climbed atop a tree looking over the makeshift campsite. He waited for the Templars to make any kind of move on the Doctor. Not long after he left, a pony walked out from the forest. The only problem was that it wasn't one of the Knights.

"Do not move." The pony, a mare, ordered.

"Uh... hello. Is there a problem?" The Doctor asked, looking behind him in hopes of seeing ShadowCaster nearby. His hopes, unfortunately, were crushed as he realized the Assassin was no where in sight.

"No, there is no problem. I'm simply looking for an old friend. I believe he is here in this forest." The mare said.

Upon hearing that, ShadowCaster jumped from his perch atop the tree and landed between the mysterious mare and the Doctor. "Who are you and who are you looking for?" He asked.

"My name doesn't matter. I'm looking for a stallion by the name of--" Before the mare could finish her sentence, the three Templars rushed out of the forest.

"Look at this, the Assassins and the traitor, all in one spot. Thank you, you've just made our task much easier." Basilisk said with a laugh.

"And I was hoping to actually have a challenge in tracking you down. It was like following a hydra in the desert." Seeker taunted.

ShadowCaster backed up and set himself into a combat stance. "What do you mean 'Assassins'? Last I checked, I was the only one here."

"Then you're even more of an incompetent fool than we thought. Not even knowing you received reinforcements." Basilisk said.

The two Assassins looked over to each other, still not being able to make out each others face due to both their hoods and the darkness from the forest.

"I'm guessing I'm the one you're looking for?" One of the Assassins said.

"Yes. Though it seems we have a bigger concern at the moment." The other replied, turning back to the three Knights.

"Now then," Basilisk said, standing on his hind legs and unsheathing his sword, "Prepare to die, Assassins."

Chapter 10: Betrayal

As Basilisk made his way closer to Shadow and his companions, he dragged his bastard sword in the dirt, laughing. "I hope you are prepared for this, Assassins. This will be the last blade you will ever see."

The three ponies opposite of him backed away as he came closer. Eventually Shadow came to a halt and drew his rapier with his hoof rather than with magic. He raised to his hind legs and took a combat stance.

"Oh? You think you stand a chance against me? This is most interesting. Unfortunately for you, I have never lost a battle in my life. So, I'll be generous and give you one last chance to surrender peacefully. What do you say, Assassin?" The large Templar asked.

He was met with a weak bolt of magic from Shadow. That was all the answer he needed and lunged at him with his sword. As it came down, Shadow dodged the swing and struck Basilisk in the back with the hilt of his blade.

"I have no qualms with killing you, Templar, but I'd rather not spill blood in a place such as this." Shadow told him.

"A place such as this? Ha!" Basilisk laughed. "The only reason this forest still stands is because the ponies of the nearby town need it. If not for that, Celestia would have had it burned to the ground ages ago. Now, enough talk."

Basilisk once again brought his sword down towards Shadow, who again dodged it. This time, though, he immediately swiped it to the side before it hit the ground. Shadow, even with the little time to react, brought his rapier up to block the attack.

They remained with their blades locked for a few seconds, and as it seemed as Shadow was going to be knocked back, a bolt from the second mystery Assassin's crossbow struck the Templar in his chestplate, causing him to stagger back.

"Seeker! Wayward! Handle those two while I finish this insect off. I don't want anymore distractions!" He yelled back to his allies.

Seeker instantly rushed towards the seconds Assassin while Wayward tackled the Doctor, knocking them both into the dark forest.

"Your friends won't be bothering us anymore, Assassin. Let's finish this properly now." The Templar said as he prepared to attack once more.

Before he could raise his sword, however, Shadow stuck his rapier against it, pinning it against Basilisk's armor. "I think I can agree with you when you say we're going to finish this properly. You move far too slowly to even get a hit off on me."

Shadow jumped back and struck his blade against his foes continually, each time causing him to move back several inches. Attacking from a different angle every time, he left Basilisk as little room to react as possible. After several moments of repeating this process, he saw an opening and took advantage of it.

The Assassin brought his blade up the side of Basilisk's and turned it, plunging it into the dirt. He quickly followed through with a swipe across his enemies chest and a kick to his helmet, knocking him to the ground.

"Now, I'm going to be generous, Templar," Shadow said as he sheathed his blade, "If you give me a good enough reason not to, I won't kill you."

Basilisk let out a dark laugh. "A good reason? I'll give you a good reason. What of your friends, Assassin? Or did you forget about the fact that my partners probably have them cut in two already?" He said.

Shadow choked on his breath, realizing that the Doctor and the mystery Assassin were fighting of the other two Templars. He knew the Doctor wouldn't stand a chance and then there was the other one, which he had no clue as to whether or not he could fight.

"Ah, I see that you didn't think about that. If you wish to find out how they are, why not just turn around." The downed Templar said.

Shadow instantly turned around to see Seeker flying out of the forest, carry an unconscious Assassin and dropping him to the floor. When Shadow tried to move closer, the Templar pegasus lifted the crossbow from earlier to the unconscious ponies head.

"I don't think so. One wrong move and this one gets a bolt through his skull." He said with a malicious smile on his face. "Also, you should know better than to turn your back on an enemy."

Behind him, the Assassin heard the sound of armor clinking. He quickly turned and made an attempt to unsheathe his sword, but as he turned he was hit in the head with the flat of Basilisk's bastard sword, launching him into the air.

Shadow could feel himself falling in what felt like slow motion. He couldn't feel his arms or legs, and as he hit the ground, all the pain suddenly hit him. He let out a yell, feeling as if somepony dropped stones on his limbs. He turned to his attacker, to see Basilisk standing there, with his bastard sword on his shoulder and Shadow's rapier in his hoof.

"Did you really think it would be that easy? That you would just disarm me and slash my chest and I would be down, begging for my life?" The Templar said as he loomed over Shadow. He threw his rapier off into the forest, making sure it wasn't to be found. "Now, we won't be needing that anymore, will we?"

Shadow lay there, breathing heavily. The side of his head was bleeding, but not enough for the blood loss to disorientate him. "But my blade should've pierced your armor, and if not that, my blow to your head should have left you unconscious." He said.

Basilisk let out another laugh. "Hah, you, knock me unconscious? Don't make me laugh. You kick like a filly. As for you getting through my armor, your poor excuse for a sword could never even scratch it." He hit his hoof against chest to reinforce his point. "Templar armor is made of the finest steel, forged in the hottest of fire, and struck by the mightiest hammer. Nothing you can do will get through my armor!"

Shadow just lay there, taking in what his enemy just said. It was true; he couldn't beat him, at least not in his current state, all battered and bloody. One blow left him nearly unable to move, while several strikes did nothing to the Templar. Even though he knew what he was getting into by fighting Basilisk, he still made an attempt. One that he now regretted. If he did not get a message back to the Mentor, more Assassins would be sent to their death here.

With his mind running, Shadow failed to see Wayward come out of the forest, with the Doctor nowhere to be seen.

"Ah, good to see you're back. I hope that the earth pony gave you no trouble." Basilisk said with a joyful tone, one that felt creepy coming from him.

Wayward simply gave a nod and walked back into the forest. "Honestly, I don't understand him sometimes. Here I am, killing an Assassin, and he doesn't even stick around to participate. Oh well, more fun for me." Basilisk said as he lifted his bastard sword into the air. "Good bye, Assassin scum. May Celestia have mercy upon your soul."

Suddenly, as Basilisk was about to bring his blade down to kill Shadow, his rapier pierced through the bottom of Basilisk's armor. Behind him was a earth pony, whom Shadow could not make out due to the darkness of the forest. The blade had gone straight through the cracks in the Templar's armor, and made its way through Basilisk's upper back and lower chest.

Basilisk turned his head slightly to face the pony. He let out a choked gasp, and tried to move away. "Damn you," Was all that he could say before collapsing to the ground.

"Bastard! I'll end you for that!" Seeker said in rage. He began to charge towards the stallion, but another pony lept out of the forest and tackled him, launching the Templar into the trunk of a tree. He lay there motionless, most likely knocked out.
Shadow couldn't understand what was going on. There shouldn't have been any other ponies, let alone Assassins, in the forest other than him and his mysterious companion. Who could this earth pony be? Could it have been the doctor? He seriously doubted that, seeing as the Doctor didn't seem like the type to hurt others.

Before long, Shadow began to lose consciousness, most likely due to the pain he couldn't feel anymore. As the world around him blurred, the two unknown ponies came up to him and spoke. Shadow couldn't hear exactly what they were saying, and soon stopped caring.

As one of the two ponies picked him up, he felt the pain return and felt himself drifting off. He could only make out the muffled sounds of talking until everything went black.

So, with the end of Legendary almost here, I've decided to bring this back. AC: Ponyville will now become my main priority. I'm also going to apologize in advance, since I'm not going to have enough time to write as much as before. I'm in the process of being moved in AP classes and a lot of time is being taken up by this.

Chapter 11: Enlightenment

Shadow awoke from his deep sleep slowly. He opened his eyes to see that it was now daytime and he was inside of a building he didn't recognize. He rose from the bed that he was in and tried to stand, but the pain from the conflict the previous night kept him down. After bracing himself, he slowly moved to the edge and placed a hoof on the ground, followed another until he was out of the bed.

He looked around the room, which was strangely decorated. It was painted in blue and red paint. He looked at it with distaste, knowing what the two colors being together meant; whoever had saved him had betrayed one side, but which one? Throwing that in the back of his mind, for he intended to have this as a conversation with this mysterious pony at a later date, he made his way to the door of the room.

As he left, he could hear sounds somewhere else in the building. He went down the hallway leading towards a short flight of stairs. He slowly made his way down them, trying not to make a sound. Reaching the bottom, he heard muffled voices coming from the next room.

Although he could only make out bits and pieces of the words, he picked up three very important ones: Templars taking Ponyville. He began to move closer to the room, inching along the wall on the opposite side. When he was close enough to hear the conversation clearly, he stopped.

"And how many are there going to be? A dozen or so Templars are more than enough to take a small town like this right?" Said one of the voices.

"No, much more than that. Celestia is worried that the Brotherhood is making a move, and would go far enough to say that this is as bold as she has ever seen them." Replied the other.

The first voice let out a chuckle, "If this she thinks this is bold, she has no idea what is coming on the horizon. The Brotherhood has been quiet for a reason."

Shadow stood for a moment, taking in what was just said. What did they mean by 'coming on the horizon'? What could the Brotherhood possibly be planning? While it was true that there was plenty of secrecy among those higher in the Brotherhood, something should have at least been said if it concerned the Brotherhood as a whole. And how exactly did these ponies know about it?

Too lost in thought, he failed to notice that the two ponies had moved across the room to the doorway he was standing in. By the time he did notice, they both were looking right at him.

"Well, you're awake. That's good, we thought you'd be out for a lot longer considering how banged up you were. How are you feeling?" An older looking pegasus stallion, probably in his mid-thirties, asked him. "Before you ask, you already know my name. I am Wayward, and I'd very much like to apologize for my actions up to this point. I couldn't allow my cover to be blown, even if it meant putting your life at risk."

Shadow, looking as confused as he felt, stared at the pony in front of him. "Cover? You mean, you're not a Templar? But... how?"

"I had a feeling you'd ask that. You see, I was sent to infiltrate the Templar ranks several years ago. As time went on, some Templars grew suspicious of me, mainly for my persona as the 'quiet' type. As soon as that began happening, I tried to get close to some of the Knights. It worked, and because of my training with Basilisk and Seeker, I was knighted and sent with them." Wayward explained.

Shadow began understanding, but with this understanding came more questions. "Why? What was to be gained from doing this?"

"Other than putting the organization of the Templars into question by their own," Wayward said, "we have managed to learn what I was sent to find out. The Templars intend to wipe out the Brotherhood and completely control Equestria. They have already made preparations, calling Knights from foreign nations, amassing forces, and the like."

"And do we have a plan to stop this? What has the Mentor decided to do?" Shadow asked the stallion.

Wayward sighed, "The Mentor has yet to see how important the matter truly is. He thinks this is just some little attempt that will fail miserably. What he fails to understand is that it is not only a few Templars and possibly Knights being sent to scout. In the matter of a year, Celestia plans to send a force of thousands to each major city in Equestria and intends to locate the Brotherhood's headquarters."

"I see," Shadow said lightly, "If this is true, then what will happen? The Mentor is a stubborn old stallion. He'll never see it as it is."

"No, he won't. Which is why our fellow Assassin here and I," he said, motioning to the mare who had taken a seat a few feet away, "have decided to take matters into our own hooves. We are going to Canterlot, and we are going to assassinate Princess Celestia and her puppets."

"Yes," the mare sitting apart from them finally spoke, "We are, however, going to need help. Which is why we are asking you to come with us."

Shadow took his time thinking about what he was being asked. Going against the will of the Mentor was a serious matter. There could be very serious repercussions for doing something as serious as taking action against major leaders of the Templars without direct orders.

"Let me ask you something," Shadow said to the two Assassin's with him, "Why did you come to me? There are far more skilled than me out there."

Wayward and the Assassin mare looked to each other for a moment. "Because," Wayward said, "you have something that we can use to our advantage. A skill that runs in your family's bloodline."

"You mean my eyes? What's so special about it? It allows me see things more clearly, what of it?" Shadow said. To him it was nothing but a nuisance most of the time. Sure, it helped him get into the Brotherhood, but that was about it. "And even if it of use, why should I trust you? I don't know anything about either of you. I don't even know one of your names!"

Wayward looked over to the mare, who had now stood up from her seat. "Of course," she said, "I failed to tell you something as crucial as my name. I'm Luminescent, and though you probably don't remember, we've worked together in the past."

"Before we go on, telling one another our life stories, we have some serious topics to discuss. Care to join us, Shadow? We will explain everything that you don't understand. Perhaps we may even persuade you to join us. It will only take a few hours to get everything you need to know."

This was a difficult decision. If he were to help Wayward and Luminescent, Shadow would be frowned upon if the Mentor were to ever find out about it. If he didn't, however, the Templars could truly seek out the Brotherhood in its hiding and wipe them out. He gave it one last long thought before answering.

"Fine, I'm in."

Chapter 12: On The Offensive

As the first light of dawn began to come over the horizon, three ponies began to awake and make the final preparations for their endeavor. It had already been almost a month since Luminescent and Wayward first came to Shadow and convinced him to help them in infiltrating Canterlot. In that time, the young assassin learned much about his new allies and his mission.

It had been true that Shadow and Luminescent had worked together in the past. It had been a minor assignment, merely meant to keep an eye on an informant from Manehatten. The two had never spoken while they were on the assignment, but Luminescent had kept a close eye on Shadow.

Wayward, on the other hoof, had a much longer history within the Brotherhood. He had been sent to join the Templar ranks several years ago, and wait for the perfect opportunity to strike at important ponies within Canterlot's walls. He was, however, thought to have gone rogue after having killed several assassins sent into the city. The Brotherhood expelled him from their ranks, but he had remained loyal, not forgetting his mission.

Shadow still had his doubts as to whether or not he should trust these mysterious ponies, especially if one of the was considered a traitor. He would be breaking several rules merely by following them to Canterlot, and breaking the rules of the Brotherhood was not something that was taken lightly. He did, however, see the plan for what it was: a way to finally put an end to Celestia's reign and destroy the Templars.

The three had been staying in a house inside of the town, rarely leaving. Most of their supplies had been brought to them by the Doctor, who had agreed to help them while they were still in Ponyville. There, they planned out the entirety of their mission, or at least how they hoped it would plan out. There was always the small chance for error, and it wouldn't be an easy task to accomplish.

As for the Elements, Shadow had determined that they were in no way connected to the Templars. He had sent a letter back to Stalliongrad explaining this, but had yet to receive one back. He didn't think much of it, but he couldn't help but feel a tad worried about it.

Ever since the Templar attack the previous month, Twilight and her friends had become much more cautious, even though Wayward told them they had no reason to be. They were far too important for Celestia to risk anything. They were still wary of any Royal Guards that passed through the town, at the same time as trying not to bring about any suspicion.

When it came to it, there had been far more Equestrian military that came through Ponyville since the three Assassins had bee discovered in the town. Though they never stayed for long, simply passing through as they moved between the larger cities, Wayward was always watching them.

With the group's preparations nearly complete, Wayward, Luminescence, Shadow, the Doctor, and Twilight met one final time before they departed.

"So, we all know how this is going to go down, correct?" Wayward said to the ponies who were seated with him at the round table in their small building. "I'll go over it one last time, just in case." He continued, even though the group had given a collective nod of their heads.

"Tonight, we grab a train to Canterlot and sneak into the city. We are going in fully unarmored, as we can't risk the Templars catching wind of us being there. Once inside the city, we will meet up with an old friend of mine, who we'll be staying with until we can get a proper place to hide out in. That shouldn't take very long, as my friend is already looking for a location."

"I have a question," Luminescence cut in, "Who exactly is this friend of yours, anyways? Their part of the plan, yet you've yet to tell us who exactly it is."

"You'll just have to trust me on this one," Wayward said, "I can't really risk anything when it comes to this pony. They've done too much work for anything to go wrong. Anyways, after we have a proper place to hide while in the city, we can start searching for our targets."

"I'm sorry to interrupt," Twilight said, "But who exactly are you going after? I'm well aware that Celestia would be one, but what about other ponies? Politicians? Military? Nobles?"

Wayward was silent for a moment, reluctant to tell Twilight and the Doctor anything they didn't real need to know. That included the ponies that would be their targets. "Well... There are some that are all of those. Mostly nobles, but a few military personnel. I wouldn't really call any of them politicians, but a couple do have some political sway due to their positions."

Shadow, who had been silent for most of this time, finally spoke up, "Wayward, if you expect to be trusted, it's best you don't try to hide things from others. Especially that poorly. She asked you a very simple question, so it's best you just answer it."

Wayward looked from Shadow back to Twilight, still reluctant to answer. After a brief pause, he finally spoke again, "Our targets are going to be seven ponies, all of which are believed to have very important roles in the Templars. Celestia is of course of these ponies. There are only a few I can really name, as we're not completely sure if all of these ponies are as involved in the Templars. The ones we are sure of, however, are Prince Blueblood, Fancypants and his wife Fleur de Lis, and the leader of the Wonderbolts, Spitfire.

They are, in some way, important and we intend to find out how exactly.Through them, we'll find out just who else is a viable target. Now, if we don't have any more questions, we need to continue," Wayward gave a brief pause to allow somepony to speak up if they wished, but the group remained silent, "Alright then, continuing onward, we are all in understanding as to what everyponies job is, correct?

"Luminescent and I will be keeping an eye on the capitol's military strength, as well as trying to find our targets and plan how to go about getting rid of them." Shadow said.

The Doctor spoke up right after Shadow, "I'll be gathering information of the Templars and make sure that they don't catch wind of what we're doing. I'll also be putting effort into finding where exactly Celestia has her sister hidden away."

"Wait," Twilight said, "What about me and the others? I'm sure there is some way we can help."

"You six need to stay in Ponyville and go about your normal lives, at least for now. We have something that we'll need you for, but not now. We'll contact you when the time is right." Wayward told her. "We can't have Celestia thinking that we've gotten you over to our side, else she might send more Templars here to keep an eye on you."

Twilight didn't respond, but simply gave a nod of understanding. The group, done with what little planning they had left to do, got up and began to go out from the building. Once outside, the assassins parted ways with the Doctor and Twilight and began to head to the train station, which they would take into Canterlot.

"So, this is it? We finally start taking jabs at Celestia." Luminescent said.

"Mhm. All our work over the last month comes down to what happens in those walls," Wayward said, looking up the mountain side city. "I have faith in our abilities, and this shouldn't be any more difficult than we anticipate. Nopony ever expects the Brotherhood assassinations. Our weapons will be stealth and swiftness. Within the next few months, we could put an end to this, or at the least put a dent in the Templar organization."

"That, or we could all die horrible, horrible deaths before we even get near any of our targets..." Shadow said in a joking tone.

"Way to be optimistic," Luminescent said, "With that kind of attitude, we won't last a day."

Wayward stopped as they came up to the station, "He does have a point. This could go extremely bad at any moment. We cannot take this lightly. Don't take any unnecessary risks, at least not for a while. Even then, don't be a pessimist, even jokingly, Shadow. No one likes the guy who talks about dieing all the time."

"Well somepony has to put that out there. This is going to be difficult, and not all of us may survive. I'm simply stating the possibilities. If it makes you two uncomfortable, than I'll gladly drop it. I hate the idea of dieing just as much as the next guy."

The group remained silent for a brief moment, taking in that there was, in fact, a large possibility of failure. A small group like theirs stood very little chance against an organized military force. They didn't let that discourage them, however. The three assassins boarded the train to Canterlot, prepared for what was to come, or at least they hoped they were.

It would be a fairly short trip, but nonetheless, Shadow decided to rest before arriving. Anything could happen the second they set hoof in the capitol. He had to be ready. They all did.

To Be Continued...

Author's Note

So... Yeah... I apologize for the massive little disappearing act I pulled. A lot has happened in the time between now and the last chapter. But, with the school year coming to an end, I can finally start writing again. Hurrah! This chapter has just been sitting around, incomplete for some time, so I decided to just sit myself down and write. It may not be a grand ending, but that is simply because it is the beginning of a series, hence the "Chronicles" part of the title. There are plenty of sequels to come, all in due time. Until that comes, I have other projects to start working on again. Thank you to those of you who have read this through to the end. I very much appreciate it.

-RoflNom