Alice felt good. She now had her mind once again set on a mission. She was more interested in this mission, because she was going after an earth pony this time instead of a pegasus.

It was also nice not having to think about the pressure she secretly felt to get along with Rainbow’s friends. Nope, right now she only needed to worry about her mission and what she could do about it today.

The first thing Alice needed to do was to check the trains at the train station. Info Seek’s train was due to arrive tomorrow, but last night she was told to meet with a contact at the train station through a late night letter delivered to her at Rainbow’s. The contact was working long hours for the next three days at the train station so the two had a good window to meet.

Alice took to the air and flew at a decent pace, for herself, to the train station. She was on her way to the new train station actually. The old one had been in use until recently. In the last year Ponyville had grown and so had the use of trains as long range transportation.

Alice soon spotted her destination. The station was still small compared to the ones she was used to seeing. It wasn’t some one building station, but it wasn’t much bigger than that. She landed nearby and trotted her way up to it.

The first thing she noticed was the rather large number of attendants, but she supposed they were mostly part time employees for Cider Season. She casually made her way on to the actual platform without much fuss. She looked around at the different attendants and the information board with many different advertisement spaces.

She hummed to herself as she saw the adverts about the different inns. She made a mental list of the possible top choices he would go for given what she learned about his personality and his patterns.

He was staying here to relax a little and hopefully throw any ‘pursers’ off his trail, by not automatically making a scramble for the border. It was too bad this would be his last stop since Alice was enlisted to take care of him.

It wasn’t long before a unicorn mare with a pink and brown mane, wearing an attendant uniform, spoke to her. “There aren’t any trains arriving for a little while, miss. May I help you with something?”

Alice gave a look of concentration as she said, “I am simply gathering Info before I seek an inn to stay for cider season is all, ma’am. I was hoping for there to at least be five inns, and maybe one that boasted about star treatment and rainbows. I could have wandered around, but I figured the train station would have more information about them, plus I like train stations. Not always too fond of trains, but the train stations are different.”

The uniformed mare leaned in a little closer and said quietly, “So you are number five of the stars then. His train is 5473 from Horn Hollow. It is still on time, and you can look up the info on it already.”

Alice nodded and then said, “Thanks for your opinion. I think I will look into staying at the famous Handy Reins Inn. I would just stay with my friend, but if I were to spend time with a nice stallion I met in one of the bars or inns she might not like it.”

“Well you know at this time of year finding a place can be hard if you don’t make a reservation. Fortunately most innkeepers are more than happy to tell you if they are filled or not. Plus they won’t say no to a customer that just wants to visit their bar area,” the unicorn mare said.

Alice gave a chuckle as she said, “You know, you’re right, I think I will just stay at her place and just find a way to go somewhere private just out of town near the forest for some privacy. I always thought it would be romantic, and a little thrilling enjoying such activities in that kind of a setting.”

The unicorn nodded to her. “I do like the sound ‘of nice and quiet’ away from others. Plus from what I know, you pegasi like to be able to see the sky if you aren’t up in the clouds.”

“True. I prefer the clouds myself, but earth ponies and unicorns don’t.” Alice then gave a half teasing half sultry grin as she said, “And unless all you want is quick and fast paced fun, a mare has to be willing to visit the ground. I mean unicorns have that magic and earth ponies have stamina. So I have heard at least.”

“Not all earth ponies have that. Some may have earth pony strength, but that still varies from pony to pony. In fact, I know this one earth pony that mostly handles files for a living and he is on the weak side for earth ponies. Still stronger naturally than a pegasus or unicorn, but he isn’t by much. Boy does it get to him. If a mare knew how much it got to him they could use it to manipulate him a little. If they weren’t too obvious about it,” the station attendant said to her.

Alice chuckled again, “I’ll keep that in mind, when I visit the bars for some fun. I can be subtle, I just usually don’t like to be too subtle. Anyways, I really should go. You did say the Inns were full. I want to see them anyways. Find out which ones will have the best nightlife.” Alice then gave the unicorn mare a smile and bow of her head in gratitude before taking off.

As she left a stallion nearby gave a whistle and said, “I like her. She is all polite and stuff if she bows in thanks to ponies. Why can’t you be like that, Blissful Service?”

The unicorn mare just gave a scoff and said, “Maybe I am, Luggage Cart.” She then gave him a sexy smirk before sticking out her tongue. “Just not to you, Lug.”

Luggage chuckled and said, “Alright. Alright Bliss, so you say. But one of these days.” He then gave a smirk and pointed a hoof to him and then her. “I will get you out on a date or something.”

Blissful giggled to him. “We shall see.” She then got back to work while Luggage blinked at her a few times. She had never almost said “maybe” to him when it came to asking her on a date. He then gave a smile and went back to his own work.

Blissful Service was a little amazed at how the information trade with Alice went. She felt a little giddy about it all really. She always dreamed of an exchange like that. It felt like something from a novel to her.

She was at first bummed when she joined the Royal Guard Intel Division and was assigned to Ponyville. She knew she was low ranking and wouldn’t get an exciting place like Manehatten, Fillydelphia or Baltimare. Still it did seem kind of extra boring to her.

Once Twilight moved here from Canterlot a few years back things got more exciting, but she mostly sent updates about the situation to command. After all how else could Celestia respond as quickly as she did when she wanted to for whatever reason?

This was the first time she had actually been in the middle of a covert operation though. Especially with a factory seeker. Most of the Royal Guard didn’t really know about the place, but she knew a little bit being from the Intel Division. Not much mind you, but a little bit.

The thing that amazed her the most was how natural Alice worked. She really did seem like a tourist looking for information about the local inns and enjoying the sights. Their conversation was done in a manner that anyone who overheard it would think Bliss was just helping out another pony. Even if they had a discerning ear they wouldn’t figure out what really was being said. Bliss now knew all she needed to know. She knew Alice’s plan more or less and had told her to make sure she can be seen in case things got too dicey. It was a good day.

{-} {-} {-}

Alice managed to look up the time and get a magic train card from the ticket stand. It would list the trains for the next few days and she could actually tell the card what train to look up. It usually costs a good bit of money, but Alice used the “society lessons” Bumby taught her to get a real good discount from the ticket desk stallion.

She was still surprised how useful those lessons were in her life now, especially seduction. Bumby wanted his “special” clients to be treated really well after all. She wasn’t to be some common prostitute. Alice was to be a special treat for them if things had worked out his way. Instead the "good" doctor ended up dead.

She also noticed the mare working the other window roll her eyes. When that happened the stallion got a little nervous. Alice gave him a wink and went to talk to the mare. It wasn’t long until the mare was smiling and even blushing a little bit.

Alice liked how open mares and stallions were here. She had a feeling it would make her job easier, since she was also open minded as well. The dark maned pegasus made her way to her next order of business.

Her second order of business was to scout out the inns in Ponyville. She knew Info Seek would prefer one if possible. He liked to be out in the open during his trek at times where open action from the guards would cause problems. It was actually a pretty good strategy given how Equestria preferred the darker parts of government operations to be kept in the dark and away from the public at large.

Alice felt a little concerned though. There were only three or four inns in Ponyville. She figured they would fill up fast. If that happened he would then have to find another place to stay. This would mean using one of the small houses, which would sometimes take on paying customers if they had a bed to spare. The wise course of action might be to go with one of these places right off the bat, but Info wouldn’t. He was overconfident and would want to stay at an inn.

{-} {-} {-}

She tried the Handy Reins Inn first. She found a rather large four story building with architecture similar to the rest of Ponyville. She couldn’t help but smile as she entered the building. The main lobby was amazing in her eyes.

It was medium sized and very professional looking. But on either side of the main desk there were grand stairwells leading up to the second floor. There were ornate benches on the sides with cushions and a beautiful tiled floor. It seemed a little upper class without being gaudy. It almost was as if it said. “We know we are an inn and travelers want a nice room instead of some grand lobby.”

She looked around and smiled as she saw just beyond the benches and main desk there was a restaurant on the left side and a bar on the right side.

Alice walked up to the front desk and a stallion unicorn with a classy, but not too classy suit stood behind the desk. He had a nice brown mane and a red coat. “Welcome to Handy Reins, Milady! I’m Proper Rest. How may I help you?”

Alice gave him a nice smile as she said, “I just wanted to know a few things about the inn, and if you had any rooms still available.”

The stallion’s smile slipped a little at that. “I’m sorry to say we’re full. Not even because of booked rooms not yet filled. We have ponies already staying in every room. Do you still want to hear about the inn, ma’am? I wouldn’t want to waste your valuable time.”

Alice gave a small dejected sigh. She then smiled again and said, “Sure. If you don’t mind customers in the restaurant or the bar that aren’t guests with a room.”

Proper brightened up at that. “Are you kidding me? Of course we love customers of all kinds so long as you don’t cause too much trouble.” Alice gave a half frown to his comment. The innkeeper chuckled good heartedly.

“Sorry Ma’am, I didn’t mean any offense. All of the inns here in Ponyville accept customers of all sorts. Hay, if you don’t have both a bar and restaurant open to all, you won’t be successful in Ponyville. We don’t usually get a lot of guests in this town. We do have some important times such as Zap Apple Harvest, Cider Season and a couple of other holidays that bring in ponies from afar, but not much otherwise.”

The stallion gave a small smile and said, “This town isn’t exactly a tourist place. Though I will say with Twilight Sparkle and the other Elements, things have been more exciting here lately, and we get thrill seekers and recent history buffs that come through.”

Alice smiled at him. “I imagine you also do get some guests from large cities wanting to experience a small town’s life style.”

Proper chuckled. “Yes we do, but not too many. Anyways. We have a bar with a great selection of alcohol. As well as a nice restaurant, which is considered high class for Ponyville. Fortunately, there is a sound dampening charm on the bar so the two can coexist. Also we have had famous ponies stay here before.” He gave a toothy grin as he waited for Alice to ask who.

Alice mentally rolled her eyes, but kept smiling on the outside and went along with him. “Ohh? Who are you talking about, sir?”

Proper Rest smiled widely as he said, “Well believe it or not we have had the famous designer Hoity Toity stay here. He was scouting out our beloved and wonderful Rarity for business. That was a disaster at first, but it worked out in the end for her.”

The host then gave a dreamy look as he continued, “We also had the amazing and talented Sapphire Shores stay here one night while resting on her tour. We had the Rock legends Hoofing Stones stay here before they went super big time. They really complimented us on our bar selection…. Multiple times.”

Most of the names didn’t really mean much to Alice, but she played along like she was really impressed. She even shifted her body just so to seduce him just a little bit while making it seem like she didn’t know she was doing so.

Proper Rest grinned widely as he continued, “I will also say we once had Princess Luna stay here. It was during her first Nightmare Night here. She stayed because of our wonderful rooms, and also because she didn’t want to leave her new friend Twilight so soon after the night of festivities.”

Alice’s eyes did genuinely widen at that. She was surprised to hear that. “Wow… Really? Princess Luna?”

The stallion nodded to her. He then gave a dreamy expression as he said, “Yes, the Princess of the Night herself. That was really an experience for me. Royalty here at my inn!”

Alice smiled and said, “That sounds wonderful! Maybe sometime in the future I might try to book this place for a night or two.” She then sighed as she said, “Though I imagine such a bar requires a lot of bits for a cover to enter.” She then gave a slight frown.

Proper Rest gave her a thoughtful expression before smiling and saying, “It isn’t that bad, Miss…”

“Briddell. Alice Briddell,” she answered. Proper’s eyes bulged just a slight bit. He had heard about her from a cousin of his in Canterlot. His cousin said she frequented his place before she moved to Cloudsdale, and she was quite the life of the inn when she visited. Even helped take care of a few unsavory customers.

He gave her a warm smile as he said to her, “You know, Miss Briddell. I am in a generous mood today, and feel rather sad we didn’t have a room for you. The cover charge isn’t too bad really, but instead take this.” He then handed her a slip of paper.

Alice looked it over and her eyes lit up in surprise. He smiled at her and said, “It is a one-time use ticket which will allow you to use the Very Important Pony entrance on the side. I do hope you wish to visit our bar while you are here in Ponyville.” Alice nodded to him and left with a beautiful smile on her face.

She would make a stop there. Maybe even tonight if she was feeling like it. Right now though she had a few other inns to check out.

One inn she checked out was Candy Land Suites. It was a much more family oriented place with a colt and filly friendly family restaurant. It was also booked solid for the past three weeks. So even it Info Seek did book an Inn in advance it wouldn’t be here, plus it didn’t seem like a place he would choose.

The next inn she visited was simply called Ponyville Inn. The place was booked solid and seemed like a standard inn. She was allowed to look at the bar, and it was a sort of mediocre, but still pleasant place.

Alice decided she might visit here as well. She really did like visiting bars of all kinds in inns. She was surprised when after saying her name the owner’s eyes seemed to light up a little bit, and she asked Alice if she would like to visit the V.I.P section sometime.

Alice gave a sweet smile and nodded to the innkeeper, Cozy Sheets. Cozy Sheets was a mare that while ‘ordinary’ looking, seemed to have a certain allure. There was just something about here that drew the eye of anypony.

Cozy wasn’t some outstanding beauty like Rarity, nor was she adorkable like Twilight. However, a mare or stallion would be happy to have Cozy as company. It was hard to understand how it was Alice knew this, but she did. It was something about the… aura… around Cozy, plus the name might have something to do with it as well.

{-} {-} {-}

Alice had one last inn to visit. This last place was called the Rusty Bridle. It was an inn that seemed to have a certain rural vibe to it. Alice figured most would call it a Western feel, but she was from London so to her Western meant the west coast or the United States of America.

Regardless, once she entered, it seemed like a place where the Applejacks of Equestria would go, or well the ponies that wanted an Apple family lifestyle vacation or something. It did have a charm of its own she decided. She took some time to look around the entrance Lobby.

The place was very open really. There was the main desk, and not too far from it was the bar. It had a fancy decorated wooden shelf behind the bar with lots of different types of whiskey and other “Stallion” liquor bottles.

She noticed the bartender had a long sleeved white sturdy shirt on underneath a fashionable and fancy black vest with a matching black satin tie. The stallion wore a nice derby hat and sported a thick, but stylishly groomed mustache.

Alice next looked over the waitress as she helped a few customers at a pool table. The waitress wore a rather lavish and slightly risqué red and black dress that showed off just the right amount of tail. She also wore cross stitched stockings on her back legs, and lacy leggings on her front legs. The waitress even had a nice black feather in her mane.

Alice actually blushed a little at the dress. She kind of liked it. She noticed the mare turn and give her a sweet smile and a wink. Alice shook her head once the mare turned around to help another customer.

The factory seeker next looked to the front desk and noticed a stallion with a black mane who wore a black hat like Applejack’s. The stallion had a confident and attractive smirk that infuriated her, but at the same time she found it agreed with him. Alice made her way to his desk.

“Well Howdy, ma’am. My name is Southern Welcome, most just call me SW. I’m the owner of this here inn. How may I help you?” He then gave her a knowing smile as he said in a stage whisper, “You know, if you're all done with checking the waitress out.”

Alice blushed and would have responded, but the stallion gave her a friendly laugh. “Don’t ya worry none, missy. Southern Comfort there has that same effect on all of our customers. It don’t matter none if they’re mares or stallions. Are ya’ll maybe looking for a room or sumthin?”

Alice gave him a look as she said, “Oh? Does this mean you actually have rooms available?”

Welcome gave her a friendly nod. “Yep, we sure do, ma’am. This inn here is rather new, truthfully. We all three came from a pony town south of here called Appleloosa.” The stallion swelled with pride at the mention of his home.

“We knew this place could appreciate a truly western inn and bar. Salt Lick back there is the bartender, and if you're real lucky he might cook up some of his famous Bar-B-Que Veggie Surprise. He only does that when we ain’t too weighed down running the bar though,” he finished.

Alice looked around with fascination in her green eyes. She was really warming up to the place, plus after all the inns she checked, this was most likely where her target would end up staying. “So how has your business fared? If you don’t mind my asking?” Alice questioned with a smile.

SW smiled with more pride as he spoke. “Been pretty good if I say so myself. Most of our business comes from the locals in the bar. Since we three are from Appleloosa we know what it’s like to work hard in a field or orchard all day. Most of the locals appreciate that greatly. Hay, part of the reason we got together for this here venture, was because we wanted a bar of our own where those who ran it knew what it was like to work hard under the sun all day, but didn’t actually do so anymore.”

The owner took a breath. “It’s nice to talk to somepony that knows what it’s like without being exhausted their self or old and stuffy like. With us being one of the few salt bars in town, that also helps business.” He gave Alice a wink.

Alice gave a giggle, “I’m sure that does help out some. I do have to say I’m sure your choice of décor makes it even better. I have yet to see a place themed like this, and it feels very friendly.”

SW gave her a grin again and said, “Yep, it sure does. Plus we got ourselves a great chef in the kitchen called Cookie! Don’t let his name fool ya though. He specializes in cowpony foods. Cookie is a term used for the old timey chuck wagon cooks on cattle drives. Even if cattle can talk they usually need us ponies to provide them with direction when going long distances on hoof.”

Alice gave him a smile and wished to stay here longer just talking to the stallion about his adventures he had surely been on. Unfortunately, she still had some business to attend to. “That really is fascinating. I really could listen to you talk all day, Mister Welcome.”

He gave a chuckle. “I suppose so, missy. Anyways can I get you a room?”

Alice gave a frown. Southern Welcome’s smile faltered just a little bit, but he didn’t let it take him down too much. “I’m sorry, but I’m not really looking for a room, sir. I was just checking out the local inns is all. What are the hours for your bar?”

Welcome gave a small sigh, but smiled regardless. She wasn’t a guest, but maybe this mare would be a patron. “Doors open at 11 AM and last call is at 2 AM. We usually encourage non-guests to leave by 2:30 AM. Night Server and his staff like to leave about then. We usually have bands playing from 5:30 PM to midnight.”

Alice gave a weak but still warm smile. “That sounds lovely. I’m dreadfully sorry that I wandered in here without needing a room, Mister Welcome.”

The owner gave a smile as he said, “Ain’t nuttin to worry about, ma’am. By the way, I never did get your name.”

Alice smiled. “I’m Alice Briddell. I’m visiting here for the famous Cider Season. I would probably stay here, but I'm staying with a good friend of mine at her house. Anyways, it was wonderful meeting you sir. I promise you I will visit you at least once while here, maybe more. I really like the feel of this place. I might even bring some friends of mine with me.”

Welcome gave her a smile, and tipped his hat to her. “I would sure appreciate that, ma’am. Come back now ya hear?” Alice gave a nod of her head and left the place.

{-} {-} {-}

Rainbow sighed as a pegasus mare in front of her desk grinned nervously. "Just make sure it doesn't happen again...okay?" The nervous weather team mare gave an embarrassed smile as she quickly trotted out of the office.

The Ponyville Weather team needed Rainbow's help on a lot of different issues lately. She blamed the problems on Cider Season excitement. Some ponies slacked a little around this time of year because they were too focused on their plan to get cider this year. Others were just over-excited about Sweet Apple Cider Season in general, and as a result made amateur mistakes that often spiraled out of control.

Then to top things off, there was Cloud Kicker. That pony needed to learn how to reign in her apparent sexiness. It didn’t help when several ponies on the weather team were too focused on her flank.

Rainbow honestly didn’t see the appeal in Cloud, but then again the factory director was from a different world. Also as far as she was concerned, few ponies could match up to her standards, even if Alice seemed like a very high hopeful.

Rainbow sighed as she stretched out her wings and shook out her mane. The day had been busy, much busier than she thought it should be. "I could really use some Sweet Apple Cider right now," she mumbled to herself. On the plus side, this work was morally much easier and lighter than her real job.

Rainbow looked out the window of her office. She gave a sigh of contentment as she watched fillies and colts play under the watchful eyes of their parents. She also noticed the couples that were scattered throughout as well.

She wondered how Alice’s day had gone. Rainbow also wondered what etiquette lessons with the green eyed pony would be like. She trusted Alice to teach her and get her “ready for royalty” as the dark maned pegasus proclaimed, but she wondered if the road would be tough or not.

Rainbow smiled as she took a step outside the weather office, and waved to Fluttershy as the yellow pegasus led a group of ducks safely through the middle of Ponyville.

That was one thing that concerned Rainbow Dash. She feared how Alice and Fluttershy would react to each other, or rather how Alice would react to spending time with Fluttershy.

"I really hope those two can get along some how. They are very different. Fluttershy is scared of flying and hates drawing attention to herself, but is the kindest pony you could ever meet. In fact, she is too kind for her own good and ends up coming off as a doormat." Rainbow thought to herself.

Then there was Alice. "Strong flyer, confident in herself, beautiful, and seems to not mind attention from other ponies. Not to mention she seems to take the whole Pegasus Pride thing too much to heart at times." Rainbow shook her head. Alice may be a factory employee who dislikes weaklings, but surely she is professional enough to not act rashly regarding Fluttershy.

"The only problem is if they spend too much time together one of the two might snap. Then the other would in retaliation." Rainbow shuddered at that thought. She had seen Fluttershy snap and was sure if Alice snapped wouldn't be pretty either.

The captain of the Ponyville Weather team finally stepped outside and took to the sky to make her way home. She didn’t want to dwell on things like Fluttershy and Alice right now. It was too much to think about especially after her day.

It took Rainbow no time at all to get home. The first thing she noticed was the collection of books on the dining room table. She could tell they were books on etiquette training from the titles alone. She then called for Alice, but received no reply.

“Alice must still be out and about Ponyville I guess,” Rainbow Dash thought to herself.

{-} {-} {-}

It was now early evening and Alice still hadn’t shown up yet. Rainbow sat at the table and felt a little upset. She had expected Alice to be back hours ago. She actually expected Alice to have been waiting for when she finally returned from the day’s work. Rainbow knew it was a little selfish, and that she was underestimating Alice’s social skills, but it didn’t change the fact at all.

Finally she heard a knock on the door before a light tanned pegasus entered the home. “Where were you, Alice?!” Rainbow asked aloud. Her question came out a little more forceful and accusatory than she meant it to come out.

Alice gave a frown and answered. “I was out scouting the inns for my mission, Rainbow Dash.”

Rainbow gave a small nervous chuckle. Now she felt a little stupid. She knew that, but with everything going on with the weather team today it slipped her mind. “Sorry, Alice. I didn’t mean to come off as angry or anything. I was just wondering… So how did it go?”

Alice gave a sigh as she sat down at the dining table. “Rather well… This whole mission still feels extremely easy, Rainbow…. Are you sure there isn’t something more to it?”

Rainbow gave her a soft smile. “There isn’t, Alice. Missions like this usually go smoother than you would think. You are a very skilled Seeker. Targets like Info Seek don’t expect or see us coming for them usually. It’s the escapees who cause trouble. They are also very skilled and know a seeker will come for them eventually. So what did you learn?”

Alice took in a deep breath. “I know he is an earth pony that is below average strength earth pony wise, and it does kind of get to him. I also know what train he will be arriving on and…”

Alice raised up the magic train card for Rainbow to see. “I have a way to keep tabs on when he will arrive. I also figured out what inn he will most likely be staying at. I do plan to find a way to hopefully follow him without drawing too much attention to myself… But that might be harder than I originally thought.”

Rainbow looked at her questioningly. “Why do you say that?”

Alice sighed. “It seems I am sort of well-known already…”

Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow. “How?”

“Well when I was in Canterlot I did frequent the nightlife locations including inns a lot. It seems while doing this I became well known in some ways.” Alice said as she gave a small frown.

“How bad is it?” Rainbow asked.

“Bad enough… I was given one use VIP passes for two of the inns here in Ponyville by just telling them my name,” Alice said.

Alice had mixed feelings about this. On one hoof, she was popular for the right reasons. On the other hoof, she didn’t like ponies she never met knowing of her in towns she had never visited.

Rainbow gave a laugh. “I guess that explains why Filthy Rich was so adamant about you and I going to his party in that invitation. He did mention some good reasons for us to go, but still. I don’t see how that is so bad, Alice. This means you have a reputation that will help keep suspicion from you on missions if you play it right.”

Alice smiled to Rainbow’s words. She hadn’t thought about it that way. “I guess you’re right, Rainbow.” After a couple of seconds of silence Alice spoke again, “Do we have anything for supper?”

“Nothing too fancy, but I have something here you might like.” Rainbow said as she quickly made them a meal of hay spaghetti with veggie meatballs covered in marinara sauce.

Once the cyan pegasus finished, the two started eating their supper. While they ate, Rainbow grumbled about work a little and in particular the newbie mistakes her team was making. Later they talked about other more enjoyable topics, such as the excitement of Cider season and their plans for Filthy’s party.

{-} {-} {-}

Once they finished their supper and had spent a little time talking, Alice had discovered where to start on Rainbow’s etiquette lessons. At the moment though, the seeker had other ideas on what to do.

“So I was thinking about going to one of those inn’s bars tonight. I was wondering if you wanted to come with me, Rainbow,” Alice said.

Rainbow sighed, “Sorry, Alice. I have something planned with my Ponyville friends here tonight. You can come if you want, but it's kind of a more intimate gathering. I’m not sure how it will go with you being new here.”

Alice gave a frown. The statement, while she was sure was truthful, did hurt her a little bit. “I understand your Ponyville friends are important and I did just meet them. It isn’t like we are an item or anything like that, so we can do our own thing.” Rainbow felt her heart sink a little bit to Alice’s words.

The light tanned pegasus gave a wan smile as she said, “Maybe one day I will be close enough with all of you ponies to be included in such gatherings.”

Rainbow wasn’t sure what to make of that, but tried to smile. “Maybe. Anyways have fun and watch out for yourself, Alice.”

Alice raised an eyebrow. “Really, Rainbow Dash?” Rainbow just gave a confused look. “You are telling me to watch out for myself… You may be older than me, but I am hardly a foal. I can take care of myself.”

Rainbow looked a little distressed now. She didn’t want to make Alice feel too young for them to be close or anything. “Hey I was just saying to make sure you don’t do anything I wouldn’t do. Also flying after a few too many drinks is not fun… I know… I’ve done it before. Twilight and Applejack still tease me sometimes and call me ‘Rainbow Smashed’. They claim I was 'soooo fast' I looked like I was standing still before I crashed into the ground hard five feet below me.”

Alice gave a giggle. “If I were to get that bad I would walk back, and probably yell for you to help me up into the house. I don’t think that will be a problem though.” Alice smiled at Rainbow who gave a chuckle.

{-} {-} {-}

The two parted each other’s company. Alice tried not to let it show, because she knew it was silly, but she felt a little hurt that Rainbow was going off to meet with her friends alone. Alice knew she had no right to get upset, but she still did just a little bit. Either way they still went their own ways.

Alice was now standing in front of the Very Important Pony entrance. She was wearing her Misstitched dress. It was just as colorful as ever, but somehow it was in better condition and cleaner. The Peach colored blouse with vertical turquoise stripes was bright and her skirt was black with intersecting straight pink lines.

This version of the dress didn’t have an apron on it. Alice was curious about this, but didn’t let it get to her. Her bright pink bow on the back of the skirt still had a doll’s head center piece, but it was a pony doll face and intact. It made for a very unique outfit.

The dress’ improved condition made it much prettier, and was getting her some interested looks as a result. Alice didn’t mind the looks. She was here to have fun tonight, and she knew she could handle anything that happened to her. It also helped that Alice liked this dress a lot.

Alice had no problem getting inside the bar, even considering she had the pass. The factory seeker figured the door attendants would still give her some lip for not being “on the list”, but they didn't.

Inside it was surprising to see different types of ponies in the VIP section. Some seemed like your average ponies. Others were obvious high class. Most of the ponies in this section were in clothes of some kind. There were a couple that only wore a necklace though.

The VIP section had a band playing some pretty interesting and fun music. It seemed to have a lot of brass instruments and every so often a pony would sing. Most of the ponies in this room were really feeling the music. Even the stuffed up high class ponies didn’t seem to care so much about decorum back here.

Alice went to the bar and asked the bartender for their specialty. “Sure thang, Suga!” The mare responded in a sultry voice before getting to work. The mare had a lovely pale persian blue coat and a subtly styled mane with amber colored hair and light blonde highlights. She was a pegasus with a cutie mark showing a sun with a cloud in front of it.

“Here you go honey. One High Flyer Cloud Kicker just for you.” The bartender then gave a wink.

Alice gave a smile in thanks. She tasted the drink. “Amazing!” Alice said aloud to herself. She would almost swear she had never tasted something as wonderful as this before. It had a citrusy and tangy taste to it. She liked it.

Alice sipped on her drink and soon started to dance just a little from where she was standing. Shortly after that, she started talking to several of the different ponies in the VIP room. It wasn’t long before she asked for another High Flyer Cloud Kicker. Her good mood was starting to catch and then spread. Eventually, some of the very different ponies were talking and enjoying the night together.

{-} {-} {-}

“I love Sweet Apple Cider Season! I came all the way from Baltimare for this!” An earth pony stallion with a monocle and dark green mane said to a unicorn mare wearing some kind of spike necklace thing.

“I remember when I was just out of flight school. I raced another pegasus, and only just barely won. I then decided despite the other pony losing they were much faster than any pony walking on the ground. That is when I started Winged Distribution,” a pink coated pegasus in a light blue dress said to a grey coated mare.

“What happened to the pony that lost?” asked the grey coated mare.

The pink pegasus gave a smile and said, “He is my fastest and best pony in the company! He’s the one that made the legendary flight from Cloudsdale to the Griffon capital city! Apparently he took his loss hard and used it as fuel for training. He is much faster than me now.”

“That’s amazing!” was all the other pony in the conversation could say.

The different ponies were thoroughly mingling now. However, Alice and the bartender seemed to still be the closest to the center of attention.

The dark maned pegasus was ever so good at mingling with other ponies. She knew what the ‘upper class’ ponies liked and what the ‘middle class’ ponies liked. She also knew what it was like to be a ‘commoner’ due to her time after the asylum.

Alice also knew it was part of her training under Bumby as an ‘escort’ that allowed her to mix with ponies at all levels. She once again hated Bumby’s name for what he did to her, but she was damn sure to use her acquired ‘talents’ to their fullest. It was even more important because of her job as a seeker and the missions she would be assigned outside of the factory.

Alice gave a pleased giggle as she told them about how excited she was about her first Sweet Apple Cider Season. A few ponies gasped and a couple overly dramatically tried to soothe her, and went on about how unfortunate it was she hadn’t experienced the joys of Sweet Apple Cider Season before.

Everypony finally broke off into very mixed groups talking with each other. Alice finally got to get herself another drink. “I want another one of those High Flyer Cloud Kickers! Where did the name come from anyways?”

The bartender gave a smile as she said, “I named it after myself. It’s a drink I first mixed for my friends. They told me I needed a name for it and so I went with something rather simple. Do you like it?”

“Like it? Of course I like it! I usually play it safe with drinks, but I’m glad I didn’t this time,” Alice said with a smile. Cloud Kicker gave her a smile and went about making the drink.

“You know, Alice. I really have to say you know how to bring life to a bar. I’ve been to VIP rooms before, including this one. Never have I seen it so well mixed!” a mare said from Alice’s side.

Alice looked her over and smiled. The mare was a little taller than most ponies, and a unicorn. She had a lovely dark pink and green mane with curls in it. The mare also had a dark gold colored coat with a cutie mark showing a compact mirror under a couple of bits.

Alice then gave a smile. “Ahhh… Posh Bit! I didn’t think I would see you here in Ponyville.” The mare smiled. Alice then gave a frown and said, “I’m sorry I didn’t recognize you earlier, but all of those different ponies….”

Posh gave an elegant chuckle. “I know what you mean, darling. As always you attract a lot of attention, when you aren’t trying to avoid it. I’m actually surprised you remember me period.”

Alice gave a smile. “Of course I do! You’re one of the ‘Canterlot elite’ I can actually stand being around for a long while.” Alice and Posh both laughed to this.

The bartender gave a laugh as she handed Alice her drink. “I have to agree with Posh here, Alice. I’ve never seen this VIP room so lively and fun! Plus it was nice to not have it so heavily focused on myself.”

“Is that so, Cloud Kicker?” Alice asked with a smile.

Cloud Kicker looked a little shocked. “You know my name? I don’t think I told you what it was….”

Alice gave a giggle. “Well, you did say you named this drink after yourself, and I saw the cloud on your cutie mark. So I took a bit of a risk in guessing.”

Posh giggled to Alice. “I’m surprised that is how you guessed her name, and not because she has a reputation here.” Posh stuck her tongue out at Cloud Kicker, who laughed.

Alice giggled as well. “Now that you mention it. I do think I’ve heard about her, Posh.”

“No doubt!” Posh then raised her glass for some reason, and Alice toasted it before taking another sip of her drink.

Cloud Kicker gave a look of mock concern as she asked, “Ohh? What have you heard of me, Alice?”

Alice giggled again. “Rainbow Dash told me all about how distracting you are to the other ponies on the Weather team last night.”

“You know Rainbow Dash personally?” Posh and Cloud Kicker asked together.

“Yep, I sure do. She’s a friend of mine. I actually partly owe my job at the Cloudsdale Weather Factory to her. But yes, I know her! As far as I can tell, she is the only pony that can beat me in a flying race,” Alice said.

She then grinned only a little smugly as she said, “Even then she did bust out her signature move to beat me in our race on the final lap! She says she didn’t need to do so to beat me, but I think she did. Or at least I like to tell myself she needed to.”

Cloud Kicker and Posh Bit both stood there with mouths open. Cloud Kicker spoke first, “Really? She beat you using a Sonic Rainboom?” Alice nodded. Cloud Kicker gave a whistle.

“Wow! I knew you were fast from all of the rumors in Canterlot, but still…. That’s impressive. Even if she really only used it for the shock and awe aspects.” Posh said.

Alice smiled. “I know she did, but still… I like to make it sound like she needed it to beat me in a race. The truth was I had her on the turns, but she had me on the straight a ways. Of course, I want to race her again to see if I have improved any since then.”

Cloud noticed Alice finished her drink and made her a fresh one. “On the house, Alice. Hay I think the owner wouldn’t mind letting you drink free tonight considering how you really got everyone here into the spirit of things. I haven’t poured this many drinks in a really long time. I’m just glad the owner finally called in some others to help.”

Posh ordered her own drink, and once it was filled she said, “Get a drink on me, Cloud Kicker! I say we toast Alice here!”

Cloud Kicker smiled as she said, “If you say so!”

Alice looked at Posh quizzically. The Canterlot unicorn smiled and said, “A toast! To the ‘second fastest’ flyer in Equestria. She may not call herself that, but either way she brings the life to any party or bar!” The mares each giggled and clinked their glasses.

Alice then gave Cloud Kicker a smile as she asked, “Why are you working as a bartender if you have a job on the Ponyville weather team?”

Cloud gave a smile, “I just do it sometimes for fun really, when my schedule allows it. Plus the extra bits really come in handy at times and…” Cloud Kicker gave Alice a sultry look as she continued in a slightly deeper voice. “I get to meet interesting ponies like you, Alice.”

“You know I can kinda see why they say such things about you, Cloud Kicker…” Alice said before the three dissolved into giggles and enjoyed their night. Cloud Kicker even got off a little earlier than normal that night, but she stayed with Alice and Posh before they all eventually called it a night together.

{-} {-} {-}

Alice gave a groan as she woke up in an unfamiliar but luxurious bed. The green eyed pegasus looked around with heavy lidded eyes. She noticed the sun was peeking in through the curtains. She looked to the clock, and saw it was shortly after noon. She was just glad she miraculously didn’t have a hangover, and that Info’s train wasn’t arriving until four that afternoon.

Alice stretched her body and wings. Her fore hooves reached for the ceiling, and she felt her back pop in relief. She let out a soft and long moan. She then felt a body near her move under the covers. She looked down and saw a tuft of dark pink and green mane shift a little.

The dark maned pegasus then heard a deep intake of breath followed by a slow exhale. Alice looked and saw an amber colored, and much disheveled mane pop up. She took in another deep breath and let it out. Last night was a very odd blurred and mixed bundle of feelings.

She then heard a dry chuckle from the other pegasus. “You know. I have… experienced a lot of sex with ponies of both sexes and all races, but last night…. That was something else…” Cloud Kicker said with a lazy smile.

Alice gave a dry sounding giggle as the events of last night came together clearer. “Yes it was… That was the first time I’ve ever slept with two other ponies at the same time,” Alice gave a sigh of part contentment and part small regret.

Her heart was kind of set on Rainbow, but they didn’t really have anything going officially. Also she had to admit sex was great, but only when it was on her terms.

Cloud then gave a satisfied smile. “Well I'm glad I was lucky to be selected for such an honor.” She then gave a small laugh.

Alice would have said something, but then they both heard a yawn, and noticed their unicorn lover had joined them in the waking world. Posh then let out a groan. “As much as I enjoyed last night, remind me to never drink that much, and use magic to ‘enhance’ the experience.”

“Well for what it’s worth. I have never had such a wonderful time with a unicorn before,” Cloud Kicker said with a saucy smile and wink. Posh actually blushed to this, and Alice giggled.

After the three very tired mares finally got up for good and had something to eat, Cloud Kicker went to report to the Weather office for her late afternoon assignments. Posh Bit went to enjoy more of Ponyville, and Alice went back to Rainbow’s place. She hoped she wouldn’t be in too much trouble for whatever reason.

{-} {-} {-}

Rainbow gave a yawn as she finally made it back to her home. Pinkie Pie had thrown their little group of friends yet another amazing and all-nighter party. Well mostly an all-nighter. Rainbow did slip out at about three in the morning. She was surprised to come across a group of stallions who were singing a drinking song of some kind, while they passed a bottle of something around.

It wasn’t so much the sight of a group that seemed off to Rainbow Dash. It was the fact a couple were obviously “elite” upper crust ponies. Another one was the stallion who owned the Quills and Sofas in Ponyville. The last couple of ponies were farm ponies. The group was talking and singing like they were old friends. She heard something in their song about a mare whose eyes alone showed you heaven, or something like that.

She was happy to see the group of ponies, but a little puzzled. Rainbow decided maybe it was all of the booze, and treats she had at Pinkie’s party getting to her. The cyan pegasus yawned, and gave the group a lazy, but friendly wave. They happily returned it.

Soon after the encounter, she finally made it to her house. It was dark so she went straight to bed.

After a few hours of sleep, the cyan pegasus woke up with a slight headache. She then called, “Alice?” but received no answer. Rainbow frowned and thought, “Alice must still be asleep.”

She might have tried to wake her friend up, but decided against it. Rainbow looked to a nearby clock. She noticed it was early afternoon already.

“Good thing I don’t have work until later this afternoon…” Rainbow said quietly to herself. She half expected to hear some kind of witty comment from Alice, but none came. Rainbow stretched, and was about to go and pound on the guest bedroom when she heard a knock on her front door.

She opened and was immediately assaulted by the slight mixed scent of booze and sex. Alice gave a nervous giggle. “Sorry, Rainbow… I sort of didn’t come back last night…”

Rainbow felt a little upset by the scents on Alice knowing what they meant, but she couldn’t bring herself to really get angry… Celestia knows she had her share of drunken nights of sex in the past. “Just… Next time shower before you return, Alice…”

“I’ll try to more control myself in the future, and take a shower like you said, Rainbow. It was just that well I had a few drinks, and really enjoyed myself in the Handy Reins Inn’s VIP section,” Alice said. She at least did fly through a couple of clouds with moisture in the hopes of rinsing off and waking up. Apparently it wasn’t enough. She still wasn't completely used to the whole shower concept.

“Woah! You got a VIP pass to the Handy Reins bar?” Rainbow asked. Alice nodded. “Damn…. That is pretty amazing. That place is pretty well known. Is this one of the places you only told the owner your name and got it?”

Again Alice nodded. Rainbow stood there for a few more seconds before letting the mare enter the house. Now Rainbow kind of wished she hadn’t needed to attend a party with the other elements. Only kind of though, really it didn’t matter where you were if you had your friends with you. It was guaranteed to be a good time.

“Well I need to get to work. I guess I'll see you later. Are you going to take care of your job tonight?” Rainbow asked as she got ready to leave.

“Yes.” Alice answered plainly. Rainbow nodded and left.

{-} {-} {-}

Once she had washed up and ate some food, Alice made her way to the ground. She looked around to make sure she was alone. She then asked aloud. “Cheshire…. Can you talk to me?”

It took a couple of minutes, but soon she heard a familiar sound. “And what is it you wish of me, Alice?”

Alice gave him a hug which surprised the cat. “It is good to see you again.”

Cheshire gave a rumbling laugh. “That seems to be one good thing about this new world. You are actually happy to see me here. What is it you wanted?”

“Well, I need a little help…” Alice then told him what she wanted him to do. The cat grinned a mischievous grin, and nodded to her instructions. Once he had his orders he disappeared again.

Alice gave a sigh of relief. She then spread her wings and took to the sky. She was glad it was a partly cloudy day today. It would be very handy for the next part of her plan.

The dark haired pegasus made her way to the train station with a decent sized cloud she snagged on the way. She made sure it was solid enough she could dive into it without it breaking apart. She would prefer to stay on top of the cloud while she observed the trains, but she was very sure any pegasus passengers would want to stretch their wings right off the bat.

{-} {-} {-}

Trains came from all over bringing ponies and other citizens as well. Alice poked her head out just enough not to be noticed, and without obscuring her view. She was excited to see a couple of griffons come out, and right away take wing before heading to Ponyville.

“I wonder if Gryphon would have loved this place,” Alice thought to herself. “Hmmmm… I miss him,” the pegasus said quietly under her breath.

She started to think about her mission again. “Why didn’t they just make the information exchange on the train or something…?” Alice thought.

After remembering the information wasn’t that critical, and this was being used as a way to test Equestria’s strength. She almost felt sorry for Info Seek. He thought he had a gold mine, but he was just being used. “Also he won’t live to see another single day with me on his case,” the seeker thought as she continued her surveillance.

{-} {-} {-}

It was finally time for train 5473 from Horn Hollow to arrive. Her train card said it was still on time. A few minutes after checking it one last time Alice saw smoke coming from the horizon. Soon the train was in sight. With a screeching of the brakes, the train come to a rest at the platform.

Alice felt her heart race a little. She wasn’t going to act yet, but it was still exciting. She was getting excited about her assignment. She would succeed in her mission and celebrate tonight. Hopefully with Rainbow Dash this time.

Alice narrowed her eyes, and watched as ponies disembarked from the train. A group of pegasus fillies quickly took flight as their chaperons rolled their eyes. Alice grimaced hoping these fillies wouldn’t decide it was a great time to do some cloudbusting.

When she heard a few giggles and wings fold she sighed in relief. She could possibly work with them laying on her cloud. It wouldn’t be easy though.

“Relax Cheerful Wings… I’ve heard the Cloudsdale flight test isn’t really that bad. Besides if you fail I’m sure they will just retrain you a little and let you retest,” A small light blue filly said to a bright yellow one.

“ummm… are you sure about that… I’m not very good at flying…” Cheerful said, not sounding very cheerful at all.

“Yah… I’m sure… my cousin told me. Besides we will all still be friends,” a brown filly with a light blue mane said.

“Really?” asked Cheerful. She seemed more like her namesake now.

“Of course!” said a fourth filly.

Alice shook her head and rolled her eyes at them. “Why comfort a failure of a pegasus pony? Her test is after cider season. If she doesn’t have it down now, she is doomed.” A small part of her was hoping the filly would pass. She wasn’t sure how she would handle her job if it involved a filly she knew the name of.

After a few more minutes, a mare on the ground threatened to get the town guard to come and gather them up. One filly made a rude remark about their sitter, an earth pony, coming up and making them land. The others giggled.

When the fillies saw two pegasi guards flying in from most likely Canterlot, they quickly landed on the ground. Alice was grateful because it was right at that moment she saw her target leave the train and make his way into town. She could now continue with her mission easily.

{-} {-} {-}

Alice knew where he would go, but she followed him just to be certain. By evening, Info Seek ended up at the Rusty Bridle. Alice smiled as she waited a few minutes and entered the inn.

“Well howdy there again, Miss Briddell. I hadn’t expected to see you again so soon, missy.” Southern Welcome greeted her as she walked inside the friendly place.

Alice gave a smile and subtly scanned the entrance hall. She saw the tables were full and Info Seek was sitting at one close to the main desk. “It is good to see you again, Mister Welcome. I kept thinking about that Veggie Bar-B-Que surprise you talked about. Plus I really do like the feel of this place. It isn’t too late for me to get something, is it?”

The owner gave a chuckle. “It sure ain’t. Southern Comfort and Cookie took care of most of these ponies already. Not many interested in drinking or salt right yet. Let me ask good old Salt Lick 'bout the veggie surprise.”

He then turned to bartender and said, “Salt Lick, you mind making some of that Veggie Surprise of yours for the lovely lady here?”

Salt Lick gave a nod and headed to the back, as a second bar tender pony took over. Welcome then turned back to Alice. “The only problem is you will have to find a table to share. But I’m sure a lovely mare like yourself can handle that.” The green eyed pegasus gave a smile, and pretended to look around for a possible table.

She eventually came up slowly and asked Info Seek, “I hate to bother you, but would you mind if I shared this table with you, sir?”

Info Seek blinked a few times, looked around, and noticed indeed most of the tables were taken. “S-sure… I guess.” Info wasn’t used to mares wanting to sit with him at random like this, but he decided there wasn’t any harm in it.

Alice gave him a smile and sat down. “My name is Alice Briddell by the way. What is yours?”

Info smiled as he said, “Info Seek. Nice to meet you. Are you here for Cider season as well?”

The mare gave him a nod. “Yes I am. I heard so much about it. A friend of mine in the area told me I should come this year. I’m staying with her.”

“Then why are you here at this inn? If you don’t mind my asking,” Info said.

“Well I have always loved inns. You meet so many interesting ponies at them. Most of which are usually friendly too. And the stories they tell are amazing!” Alice said with her green eyes lighting up.

The dark maned pegasus nodded as Southern Comfort gave her a glass of water. “One time in Canterlot I met a pony who writes travel books. He’d seen so many places all over Equestria, and even other countries as well.”

Info smiled as he said, “I wish I had traveled that much. Until recently I was stuck at a dead end boring government job. I finally quit, and now I’m seeing some of the sights before I head off for my next gig.”

Alice would have said something, but it was at that time her order arrived. “Here you go, Hon. Salt Lick’s special dish just for you,” Comfort said with a wink.

Info gave a chuckle. “The bartender made that? I thought the chef’s name was Cookie?”

Alice nodded as she looked the dish over. “It is. But when I was checking out the different inns yesterday I came here at a slow time, and Southern Welcome told me all about Salt Lick’s special dish here.”

Alice managed to pick up her utensils again. She didn’t get how she could do that, but by this point she had mostly stopped questioning it. Her dish seemed to be kebobs of some kind wrapped in thin slices of radish soaked in some kind of sauce.

She noticed Info Seek was staring at her intently as she took a bite.

Her eyes lit up again, and she took in a deep breath as her wings popped out before then folding back in on themselves. She quickly took another bite, and let out a soft moan of contentment.

Info was blinking and blushing a little bit. This caused Alice to blush as well. She then cleared her throat, and gained control over her own blush. She then said aloud, “This is simply wonderful!”

Salt Lick gave a chuckle at her reaction while he cleaned a glass behind the bar. At the same time, several other ponies asked if they could have what she was having. Salt Lick gave a loud laugh as he said, “Fortunately because of the recipe I have to cook a good sized batch. So everypony, we have some more Veggie Bar-B-Que Surprise... if you want it.”

Southern Comfort shook her head as she got to work taking more orders.

Info looked at the dish intently. “Is it really that good?”

Alice nodded and offered him a bite. Info took a bite and had a similar reaction to her. As Info took another bite, Alice asked him, “So are you staying here?”

Info still in ecstasy of the food nodded and said, “Yep, room 305. I was lucky this place still had rooms. Next time I’m going to book a place in advance.”

Just like that Alice had a key piece of information for her plan. However, she was good at her job. She didn’t leave right then and there, and instead continued their conversation.

“Well Mr. Welcome did say they were fairly new. I imagine after this Cider Season they will get more business in the future for events, which bring in ponies from out of town,” Alice said. Info nodded in agreement. If there was a place that could make such a lovely dish, it deserved all of the business it could handle.

{-} {-} {-}

As the evening went on, Alice did what she usually did. She enjoyed herself, and fit in fairly well. She did spend most of her time with Info Seek. Really she thought it a pity he was a traitor that stole secret national information. He wasn’t really that bad of company.

Alice giggled as she excused herself to the little fillies’ room. She made Info promise not to go anywhere on her. He gladly complied.

Once in the restroom, she took care of her business. Alice then checked the other stalls, and made sure no other ponies were around. “Cheshire.” She said quietly.

“Yes, Alice?” She soon heard his deep voice reply.

“Room 305. You know what to do.” Alice answered simply. Cheshire chuckled and disappeared. Alice smiled and made her way back into the bar/lobby/restaurant at the Rusty Bridle.

{-} {-} {-}

Cheshire materialized into room 305. He smirked as he looked around the place. “All too easy,” he said to himself. The cat was really happy. He had a wonderful mission to do, and the poor fool of a stallion made his entrance even easier than it would have been.

Info Seek left a little crack in the curtains to his room. This allowed the cat to simply materialize into the room. He was ready to use his claws on the window, but he didn’t need to do this.

“Well, Well… time for a little fun. I much prefer this aspect of Alice’s new career to the other,” Cheshire said to himself. He then grinned and got to ‘work’.

{-} {-} {-}

In the bar back below, most ponies were talking in smaller groups now. Alice had gotten to know a few different ponies that day.

Info Seek had decided if things kept going like this. He could really enjoy stealing secret information and going places for a living.

He also found this Alice pony to be something else. She mixed in real well with the different kinds of ponies. He felt lucky that she was spending a little extra time with him. He had to ask though, “So how come you aren’t with your friend tonight, Alice? Not that I mind your company or anything.”

Alice sighed and her ears drooped a little. “Well, my friend, Rainbow Dash, is from here in Ponyville. She is a good friend and all, but she already had a tight knit group of friends here. You know how things like that get, I’m sure.”

Info nodded as she continued. “They are great mares, but they all know each other really well already, and despite how they are doing their best to make me feel welcome, I still feel like an outsider. I’ve felt that way plenty of times, and don’t much care for it. I think that is part of the reason I love visiting inns as opposed to local taverns and bars.”

Info nodded and added to her words, “Everypony here is an outsider of sorts, and even if some are with family, many are on their own, or just with a couple of friends. They are more likely to open up and you won’t feel out of place.”

Alice gave a soft, seductive smile. “Yes you are right about that. Plus my friend’s group of friends are all mares. So being around them isn’t exactly the best way to meet... stallions.”

Info gave a laugh and blushed a little. “So have you met a lot of stallions here?”

Alice blinked before she gave him a gasp and said, “I have only been here a few days. I haven’t met any stallions in this town.”

Info gulped thinking he might have really angered her. “I didn’t mean anything bad about it, Alice… I was just wondering is all…”

Alice sighed and Info relaxed. “I have been with other ponies before, but not that many. However, I guess it does make sense to wonder that. I do seem to have a knack for fitting in socially at inns.”

Alice then gave a chuckle. “I actual became fairly well known in Canterlot. I stayed there for a good while before I got my job in Cloudsdale at the Weather Factory. I actually bumped into a few ponies here that knew me from there.”

Info gave a smirk as he jokingly asked her, “Speaking of being with ponies before… So, Alice. Have you ever been with an earth pony?”

Alice blushed and looked to the side before answering. “No… I haven’t.” She then looked back at him with a sexy smile and said, “I’ve heard they have more strength and stamina than any others.”

Info knew this was being extremely forward, but he went with it. If nothing else he could blame it on the salt and alcohol. Plus it was nice being seen as strong for once. “Well maybe I can show you how true those rumors are.” He gave her a wink. Alice giggled.

“Want to go for a little walk with me, Alice? I’ve heard pegasus ponies, especially mares, love to be out under the sky.” Info said in his attempt at a dashing voice. He actually pulled it off fairly well.

Alice blushed and shifted a little bit. “Sure… If you want.”

He nodded and said, “I need to drop by my room to get something real quick. If you don’t mind.” Alice nodded and agreed to wait by the front door.

Info Seek wanted to double check his room to make sure the guards hadn’t sent someone to sneak into it and get the files. He put them in a secret hidden area, but he needed to be careful. He opened his room and his jaw dropped.

He looked around his room and noticed it was a mess. The place looked like it had been ransacked. Info panicked, and searched the room. He breathed a sigh of relief when he found the files, and made sure they were still there. He thought quickly on what to do.

His eyes then raised in realization. He couldn’t stay here tonight. They might try something. The Royal Guard was clearly getting desperate. However, Alice provided him a somewhat solid backup plan. She seemed too well known to just disappear, so they wouldn’t try something with her around. Ponies would notice she was missing he had a feeling.

He recognized the name Rainbow Dash, her friend. She was an Element Bearer. So surely a friend of the elements wouldn’t be seen as acceptable collateral for a mission.

Info also knew the elements weren’t involved in any secrecy of the Equestiran Government. They were civilians called upon when needed only. He knew this meant they wouldn’t take well to being told to stay silent if they were to have a friend 'disappear'.

He quickly tossed some things into his saddle bags including the files, and regained his composure before meeting with Alice. He was still a little nervous though. At the same time, he wasn’t going to change his plans with her, or his mission. He thought it better to not let them get to him. They would want him to panic. They would want him to make a mistake.

Alice gave a relieved smile as he returned, “There you are. For a second, I thought you were going to stand me up.”

Info Seek gave a nervous laugh. “Sorry, Alice. It took me a little longer to find what I was looking for. Anyways let’s go.” He then left with her. He still felt a little nervous and sighed mentally as he noticed Alice looking at him with concern.

“Is everything alright, Info?” Alice asked, her beautiful green eyes showing concern.

“Yes it is… Just a little overwhelmed is all. Nothing to worry about. I rarely have such a wonderful mare as company like yourself, Alice.” He answered her.

Alice blushed. She had to admit he was pretty good for a file clerk. Plus his compliments were nice. She was a little excited herself as well, but she then focused on her mission again.

{-} {-} {-}

After a little while, both had calmed down and were now near the edge of the Ever-Free Forest. Alice gave a little gasp. “This is the Ever-Free Forest.”

Info raised an eyebrow. “Does that mean something?”

Alice nodded. “It’s supposedly a very spooky place. It also surrounds the old castle where Princess Luna was freed from Nightmare Moon by The Elements.”

Info gulped a little, but kept calm. “Well the excitement will just make this even better.”

Alice blushed. “I can see that.” The two sat down and looked up into the night sky.

Alice took a moment to breathe it all in. It was unfortunate what she had to do on such a lovely night.

Info Seek moved in closer to Alice, and gave her a soft nuzzle on the cheek. He next kissed her cheek, and she turned to him with her eyes closed.

Info didn’t notice Alice summon her Vorpal Blade silently. Right when he was about to kiss her on the lips, he felt something stab him deep in the side.

His eyes widened as he looked down, and saw a beautifully engraved blade withdraw covered in his blood. It then stabbed him again before he knew what was going on. He coughed and asked, “Why?”

He looked up and saw the coldest, but still beautiful, green eyes he had ever seen. “You shouldn’t have stolen National secrets to trade for money.” Before he could react he heard the blade sing through the air and slash his throat.

Alice frowned at him. It almost seemed like she really was sad to take his life. “If it is any consolation. I really did like you. If you hadn’t been a traitor we would have enjoyed such a nice night together.”

As he choked on his own blood trying to stop it with his hooves, Alice spoke again sadly. “The sad thing is you were being used just as a way to test Equestria’s strength by the Screaming Skies. Regardless you wouldn’t have made it.”

Info Seek’s vision slowly darkened along the edges. The last thing he saw were two Night Guards land on either side of Alice.

The last thing he heard was one say, “Good job, Seeker Alice. Your mission is a success.” With that the life left Info’s eyes, and he gargled one last time before dying.

Alice’s expression was still cold. “I believe he has the files in his saddlebags.” Even if he was a traitor it was sad to take his life like that.

One of the guards looked through the bags and found them. He nodded to the other. “We'll take care of the body and everything else now, Alice. Thanks. Also thank you for letting us know your plan in such a manner. Blissful Service was excited by your exchange at the train station.”

Alice blinked. “You mean I don’t have to take care of the body? I don’t have to go and finish up at the Rusty Bridle either?”

The two Night Guards smiled at her, but it was a familiar voice that answered instead. “One of the perks of working on jobs for the Royal Guard is they’re allowed to help out. In fact, only a select few interact with us on such missions.” Rainbow silently landed near Alice with a rain cloud nearby.

“After all, we still keep dealings of the Rainbow Factory secret, but some guards, like the ones here and the Intel Division, know of our existence, but that is all,” the Factory manager said.

Alice smiled at her and said, “I still think this job was way too easy. Though it was sad he needed to be killed.” Alice frowned as the Night Guards took the body away.

Rainbow flew up and tapped the rain cloud she brought with her. Alice watched as the rain washed the blood away. Once the cloud was finished, Rainbow spoke, “Want to help finish cleaning up here, Alice? I know you know how to kick up a little controlled wind.” The Rainbow maned mare gave her smug grin as Alice gave a smile.

It took them no time at all to whip up some wind that would scatter the droplets of water from the field shower. “Well done, Alice. You completed your first official mission for the Equestrian Throne.” Rainbow said as they landed on the ground. “How did you get him to bring you out here though? I mean sure seduction is powerful, but not that powerful. He most likely would have taken you to his room if anything.”

Alice gave a self-pleased grin as she said, “I had a little help.” Rainbow looked confused, but then Alice called, “Cheshire?”

The Factory director was confused with what was going on. She then noticed the air seem to shimmer next to Alice. As Dash tried to focus on the pocket of air by Alice, she let out a “Gahhh!” when a demonic looking large cat creature appeared.

The cat looked bony, but still seemed to have an air of strength about him. The thing also had yellow eyes that seemed to glow in the night’s darkness. It had some kind of markings all over his skin, and his wide grin showed a set of teeth with flecks of blood.

It was what happened next that really startled Rainbow though. “You called, Alice?” Rainbow’s eyes widened and her mouth fell open.

“Yes I did, Cheshire. Good job on your assignment. Did you finish it?” She asked.

The creature chuckled darkly as he said, “Once those two lovely guards look in his room, or whoever is in charge of cleanup does, they will find the room spotless.”

The thing then sighed and lounged on the ground. “I much preferred the first part of my job though, Alice. Thank you for such a wonderful opportunity. I haven’t been allowed to let loose like that in a loooong time. If you ever need me to ‘ransack’ a room again feel free to call.”

Rainbow’s brain finally started to function again. “That thing can talk?! What are you?!”

“Indeed I can talk. That is what the action of forming words for the sake of communicating with others is called.” Cheshire gave a grin.

Alice gave a little giggle. “He is a Cheshire Cat. His name is Cheshire or sometimes just Cat. He's a friend of sorts.”

Rainbow started looking at the creature with some interest. Sure the thing was scary looking, but she did find him interesting. Besides they did have things like Ursa Minors and Manticores around, why not Cheshire Cats as well. “So are you from the Ever-Free Forest, or somewhere like that?” The mare asked as she looked and tilted her head to get a different view point.

Cheshire chuckled before lazily answering, “Somewhere like that.”

“Where did you meet him?” Rainbow asked.

“It’s a long story….” Alice said as she looked to the ground for a moment.

The cat let loose a laugh as he said, “Really, Alice? You trust your friend here enough to introduce her to me, yet you won’t tell her your whole story?”

Alice frowned at the cat. “I think meeting you is enough of a shock for one night, or maybe even a week.” The cat grinned and his tail twitched a little.

Cheshire then gave a stretch and yawned. “Regardless, it was nice meeting you, Rainbow Dash.” The cat then disappeared mostly. His mouth gave one last smile before saying deeply. “See you around, Rainbow.” It then gave a laugh and completely vanished.

Rainbow considered herself a brave pony, and she usually wasn’t creeped out by things anymore after working at the factory. However, the way that cat thing’s mouth hung in the air, and spoke to her sent a chill down her spine.

She turned to Alice, and was surprised to see the pegasus merely roll her eyes. “I know what you’re thinking. Don’t worry about him suddenly popping up on you when you are alone. He won’t do things like that until you have gotten used to him. He just likes to ham it up a lot.”

Rainbow gave a nervous chuckle. She hadn’t really thought about that possibility, until now. “If you say so, Alice.” She then cleared her throat and pretended not to have just met the freakiest creature ever as she asked, “So what are you going to do now?”

Alice gave a smile and answered, “Well I think after meeting Cheshire you could use a drink or three. Want to go to a bar?”

Rainbow nodded. “I could use a drink, that is for sure. But why don’t you come with me to meet the others? Pinkie is throwing a Day before the day before Cider Season Party for a few of us. It won't just be our small group either. Also Applejack won’t be there because she’s busy.”

Alice looked to her questioningly, and Rainbow answered. “Twilight finally convinced her to get help for Cider sales, but AJ says she won’t get us to help out yet. She was going to ask some of her cousins visiting from Appleloosa to help first. She figures that will be more than enough help. Plus, since it is family tradition to wait for their trees to season a bit before the first cidering, or whatever they call it, her family could use the practice anyways.”

Alice nodded. “That sounds good. Can I take a shower at your place first? I did get some blood on me after all. Even after the impromptu shower you gave me I could use another.”

Alice really just wanted to take yet another hot shower. She really had become fond of them after the one she had earlier that afternoon. Rainbow smiled and nodded. The two made their way to Rainbow’s house to wash up, before heading to Pinkie’s for a party.