Prelude

It was a bustling day, the usual for Dogburn. Diamond Dogs pulled carts after them loaded with everything from spices to apples and fur. Other Dogs walked around glancing at merchants’ wares and arguing prices. Still others edged around the crowd, sweeping dust and fixing lanterns to keep the cavern as bright as the world outside,

Flory walked through his people with pride, the dogs had, just like phoenixes, pulled together from the brutes of the race to make something good. To make a real home where pups could romp without worry.

It was a soft pride that lay in his chest. The others would always accredit the success of the settlement to Flory, but no, it was the Dogs who had dug and the Dogs who had laid the cobble. He was just been another pair of paws there with them. Still, in the end they had unanimously pushed Flory as Alpha, crowning him as Governor.

And so he walked the Bazaar, greeting, and being greeted by all familiar faces. He smiled to hear the Dirtpaws had just had a full litter- and none of them a runt. As a single pup, he loved hearing this- it was, perhaps, the best part of his job.

After this happy exchange his eyes were drawn to an alley between two buildings across the way, there were a few males there, jeering at something and laughing. His eyebrows furrowed. What was this? The Dog made his way there quickly, padding up behind them discreetly and silently.

The light needed changing; the close-ended alley was cloaked in shadow. The forms of the three Dogs blocked the opening completely.

“Hey there little pony, lost your way?”

“For such a little filly, you have really big bags, gonna flip over?”

“Dumb little Pegasus. How ya gonna fly in here?”

Of course, they said more than this, but these were the “nicest” comments.

Flory’s eyes narrowed. ‘What the hell?’

“What in the blazes are you doing?” He said calmly, letting undertones carry his annoyance.
The three turned, shock etched in their faces. Varied exclamations of “Boss” and the like made up the response. Flory motioned to the middle dog to move to the side, there was no argument.

His eyebrows rose, the only bit that escaped the well of surprise that arose. A tiny… a really tiny Pony was in front of him. She, it was almost hard to tell, the foal was so young he had to rely on the mane, hadn’t said a single thing this whole time. Flory had experience with Ponies. He could tell that she was especially short, a runt. What was a mere pup doing here? He couldn’t tell her exact age.

She stood hooves hard on the ground. Her coat was a deep royal purple, her mane a deep blue that flowed like water. Inspection of the tips revealed that it had been a while since she’d had a manecut. She held her wings clamped to closely to her body, and he could not see past the saddlebags she wore, simple brown without decoration, to tell if there was a mark on her flank; though surely such a young pony would lack one.

The Governor took all this in a second. What really caught his attention were... the … unusual things... There was a holster attached to her rear leg, inside it some sort of cylinder made of wood. A circlet seemingly wrought of silver and set with a material that gleamed like alicorn rested on her brow. And then were her eyes.

The moment Flory’s met the foal’s he felt at ends.

There was nearly a glint of darkness in them, not an evil darkness, but a night like one. They were hard and serious, all softness gone. Invulnerable unlike all other ponies he had ever met. They caught the breath in his throat.

“Hold it there.” He said quietly, pulling his eyes away. The Dogs, attempting to sneak off, froze. “She is a pup. What do you think you three were doing?” He turned to face them. Flory went off at the three, his voice calm as ever, but frozen, the looks of discomfort on the three only kept growing.

“I’m not a child.”

Flory froze, mid-word, and turned his head. “What?”

“I am not a child.” Her voice was that of a pup, but stern, cold.

“How old are you?” Flory knew the moment he said it that it was in no way an elegant question. But some things you just can’t help.

There was a moment of silence from the foal, then in a voice as toneless as before “Fourteen.”

Flory’s breath hitched again, “Where are your parents?”

Her face stayed masked as she suddenly moved past the Dogs, hooves clopping on the cobble, “That’s really no concern of yours.” She said without looking back.
Flory watched her slide into the crowd.

“Get out of here!” He barked at the three, hastening to catch up to her. The tiny thing had a much easier time getting through the crowd than his large figure. When he finally caught up with her he could only stare. ‘So that’s why she’s here.’ He thought to himself, watching her from a distance barter with a middle-aged female for some lapis.

The child pointed out a few small defects in the stones, that, while easy to fix, lowered the value of the gems in their current condition. It was with a strange mix of pride and indignation that he watched the pup clearly outmaneuver his citizen. ‘Well, at least she’ll offer the best possible stock now.’ He thought watching the female scoop the gems into a bag. What happened next he couldn’t explain.

The dog offered to put the bag in the filly’s saddlebags, but she declined with a simple shake of the head. Suddenly the bag was floating above the shocked Dog’s paws. Without a pause, it floated into the Pegasus’ bag, while at the same time a quarter bar of iron dropped into her stunned paws. With a click the saddle bag closed. And with traders’ thanks she was off on her way.

“I’m a merchant if you didn’t pick that up already.”

Flory flinched, she was sharp to notice him sneaking up. He’d been following her around half the day… He thought he’d done a good job.

“Really. One would think the Governor had something better to do.” She turned to face him finally, eyes flashing over to the side and past him. Flory realized that the buzz of the market had died down. He turned to see what the matter was and realized that the merchants were all but packed up. They were away from the others, near where the buildings started.

‘Sneaky pup,’ he thought abashed. Perhaps he had been too focused on the foal, she had led him around like a fool and he knew it.

“How are you doing that?” He asked her, motioning to the apple hovering in front of her mouth; she was leaning against a hay cart, one front hoof crossed in front of the other.
She swallowed, and the apple bounced in the air. “Well, I take an apple, and eat it.” She smirked and took another bite. Flory was about to retort when she spoke again. “It’s a secret.”

“Really?” He responded unsurprised.

“Yep. And only those who really, really want to know can.”

“Really?” He felt like he was being played, but hey, any creature who was somehow using unicorn magic… Actually, he’d never seen one.

“What do you want?”

“Mmmmm….” She looked up at him through lidded eyes. “Information about Hu-Masters.”

“Where are your parents?” This was too much for games. Enough. There was something off. A spy? It had to be something sinister of course.

“I haven’t got ‘em. And cool it. Your tail’s in a bristle. I’m not from Equestria.” The child’s voice was filled with a subtle venom, she got up on her hooves.

“You’re not?” Today just kept getting weirder. He felt a headache coming on.

“Not originally,” She glanced about. “Look, we can keep standing here, or get out of the way and actually talk.”

“… Right then. This way.” For a reason he’d never be able to explain, Flory turned around and started walking. Nerves just a little frayed. What in the nether had he gotten himself into?

Chapter 1

Flory padded down the street, Mabu following after, trying to bite back curiosity so that it wouldn’t show. Even though the streets were nearly empty due to the late hour, the duo still managed to earn curious looks from many Dogs who neglected their late afternoon routines to stare. Eventually they arrived at the town centre, a large looming structure boasting a steel fence around it. The only way around it, aside from scaling the high-to-the-tallest-Dog fence, was through a cast-iron gate guarded by two guards. Mabu looked the pair up and down as she neared; they wore fine blue coats very similar to the Governor, but on top of those were iron chest plates and cast iron helmets buffed to a sheen. They stiffened to attention with a thud of paws and shifting of weight as the two approached. “Sir!” They barked in unison as they passed by. She would never admit it, but inside she was impressed and, perhaps somewhere, a bit intimidated by the power the guards radiated. ‘He must place emphasis on the military strength of the nation,’ she decided.

Once past the gate Mabu was guided through looming hardwood doors into the interior of the town hall. Inside, her eyes adjusted to take in a well lit, finely crafted room. Many chairs were lined up in rows, all facing a podium on a stage. She had no doubt that this was where Flory held addresses and saw to the requests of his people. A few finely dressed Diamond Dogs wandered about the room, she habitually listened to them chatter on about this and that, but, since it was nothing of import dismissed the words.

Suddenly a female Dog adorned in a fine vest and wearing goggles approached Flory.

“Governor,” the new female began, “The city is running well. There are no major issues, except maybe a brawl down at the Dogbowl- nothing serious, the town guards can handle that matter and-“ Her words cut off jarringly as she noticed Mabu, “What is that?”

Mabu only raised her eyebrows as Flory chuckled, it seemed he may have been about to answer, but, “That? What are you?” Hmph.

The female was clearly taken aback, perhaps her response was a bit…snappy?

“What am I?” Her words were filled with shock, it took a few moments but she regained her composure, with pride she answered. “I am Minister Spot, Governor Flory’s adjutant: you had best be showing some respect!”

Flory laughed, it humored him to see the small pony snap, at least she had finally shown some emotion towards that. He’d been getting a bit worried. “Now, now Mabu,” He had picked up her name listening to her merchant dealings, “I’m sure you and Spot meant no disrespect to each other, you two just got off on the wrong foot, that’s all. Spot, you have done well, if there is no further business you may be excused and take the rest of the day off. If you need me, I shall be in my quarters.”

“Of course Governor. Mabu, I apologize for my earlier rudeness.” She replied with a small bow. “I hope we can get along Mabu, I was just surprised, and we do not get ponies here often if at all.” Mabu sensed the response was genuine; it seemed to her that the Dog just spoke what was on her mind and was quick to react, perhaps given time, they could become allies. It would be good to have Dogburn as a trading avenue.

After Spot took her leave, Flory led Mabu through two more double hardwood doors. Things were already just a bit big in Ponyville, here, everything was hulking. The pair passed a fountain, she had just enough time to catch that the plaque read ‘To all Dogs who, with their effort and paws, made this home we can all be proud of.’

It seemed they had been walking through the building for ages when they finally reached a door guarded by the largest diamond dog she’d seen yet. She felt she barley came over his knees. He stiffened to attention like those before him; yet, unlike the earlier, impassive guards, she felt an aura of malice directed at her, his eyes bored into her through the slits of his helmet. The further away she was, the better.

Flory glanced over at her, and saw her discomfort in the way she stood, how her shoulders drew close together and her hooves dug into the floor.

“My lord!” the guard barked in a booming voice.

Flory responded with a simple “Sir Knight.”

Flory opened the door to the room and motioned for Mabu to enter, she trotted inside, more than willing. It was as well built as the rest, but adorned simply. A desk was seated in the centre of the room with a couch facing opposite. A simple chair was placed at the desk. She figured that the door on the far wall lead to sleep quarters.

The Governor motioned to the couch, “Take a seat little one,” he instructed in a condescending tone, Mabu bit her cheek as not to glare at him. She needed the information too much to upset this. She hopped up on the couch and made herself comfortable, watching him reach under his desk and drew out a bottle of black liquid. When he unscrewed the lid there was an explosion of gas. ‘What… is that?’

“This is a drink that has been developed by one of my fine citizens,” The Governor said with a hint of pride as he pulled out two glasses and poured the dark concoction into them. To her interest, it continued to hiss. “’Tis called Cola or soft drink, rather, Cola is the flavor. It is carbonated gas with water and flavor. Makes for a great recreational drink, care to try it?” He said offering her the bottle while taking a sip of his own.

“Sure Governor.”

He settled into his chair, “I’d carry it to you, but I know better by now.” He said, watching her levitate the glass to her. She felt amused. How was it that no one tended to realize it was the circlet? The drink wasn’t too bad; it left a strange tickle on her tongue. She decided it reminded her of the Ponyvillians’ ‘soda pop’ an apple concoction that was a bit too sweet for her tastes. “So you want to know about the Masters Mabu?” He quizzed. The return look was a clear ‘of course’. “The Masters are a legend from the old times, when Diamond Dogs had a city, a city so great that it even traded with The Equestrian City of Cloudsdale.” He smirked at her surprised expression, “Yes, it was a great beacon of Diamond Dog glory, but it all ended horribly.”

“Yes, yes.” The foal responded with puppyish impatience, “Can you get to the Masters?”
Flory chuckled, seeing a bit of the color of this little pony amused him. “Very well, tales of the Masters abounded during this time. The Masters cared for us, loved us, played with us and fed us. They were our guidance and the foundation that we relied upon. One day the disappeared and left us Dogs alone, one day, we believe that they will return and take us in again. Then we can be their servants again and be at peace with loyal and worthy Masters to serve.” Flory ended with a longing look in his eyes.

Mabu gave a small sigh, looking away, “Humans…”

Flory’s face grew annoyed, “Humans. Well, I have heard many Diamond Dogs tell that the Masters could indeed be humans, no proof of course. I cannot provide any more information than this. I hope this helped, but that is all I can tell you. We have a few relics that you can peruse, but that will have to wait until tomorrow as it has gotten late.”

It was hard to tell the time underground, but as Mabu trotted over to a window she noticed Diamond Dogs patrolling the streets dimming, if not dousing, lamps across the city. “I have a room you can stay in Mabu, if you wish. Otherwise, there is a hotel in the city.”

“I will stay here if you don’t mind.” She responded quietly, almost shyly, it seemed to Flory. He could tell she was tired. He smiled a bit, seemed the proud little pony could cave in a bit after all.

She watched him as he guided her to a spare room, thankfully away from the one ‘Knight’. “You’ve forgotten something.”

He looked down at his coat, “What?”

“In answer to your question: It is the circlet I wear. I’m not sure what the center is made of, but a rather hermetic Unicorn who was skilled in magic made it for me. It grants only Telekinesis.”

Flory glanced at the headdress, he had never heard of such a thing. He was curious to find out how the device worked. He opened the door and let her in; she went and made herself right at home.

Flory returned to his room and put the bottle of Cola back under the desk. That little pony sure had a drive to find out as much as she could about humans. Her determination struck Flory, it reminded him of the resolute working drive of his own people when they carved Dogburn from the rock. He could see a bit of Diamond Dog in the little pony.

Mabu trotted into the room and surveyed her surroundings as the Governor closed the door. She shook her saddlebags off and walked in. She’d been impressed by the organization of the city, it really wasn’t what she had expected. Rather than a collection of dirty dark tunnels populated by brutish Diamond Dogs, she found a proud city of Dogs who worked hard and held themselves well. The city was comparable to many of the Pony Cities she had visited in travel… there was only the difference of military presence. But she had heard stories that Canterlot was like that. She moved to the window, green eyes flashing around, there were many armored Dogs patrolling the streets and guarding places of importance. She heard a clamor, and with a small thought the window slid open. Across the street were a group of the Guard, one was bearing a torch. She heard their barked voices, “Monsters sighted in the east tunnels, Durnhauser, Rolf, with me! To the people our duty!” The leader ordered.

“And to the people our lives!” The other Dogs responded, all three readied their pikes and ran off in the direction of the east tunnels. Mabu closed the window, glancing at her cutie mark, she could help… but it wasn’t her place.

It seemed that, despite the happy and peaceful face of the city, it was built within a monster area with many nests. She guessed that eradicating the nests would prove too dangerous and costly to do. Hence, the Diamond Dogs boasted a strong military presence to safeguard their people. As she had walked around that morning, she had noticed many posters and signs portraying inspiring messages such as “Better Yourself!” and “Duty to the People!” It seemed that the Governor had instilled a very patriotic and duty based society. Overall, it wasn’t too bad a city.

Chapter 2

She’d lived in Ponyville, perhaps two and a half years now, maybe a bit more. It wasn’t anyponys’ fault that she kept to herself so much. Sometimes she felt a small bit of regret that she was always at the edge of the crowd when she had little business to excuse herself from Pinkies parties, or when she cared little about the compliments that Rarity gave about her mane. She was thankful to their efforts, and said as much, but could never feel comfortable around them.

Sometimes she heard murmurs amongst the crowd, smug disapproval from those who noticed her fascination with humans. “She saw that Light one time, and off she goes trying to find old ponies’ tales.” Was one muttering that stuck in her head. She wasn’t sure herself what intrigued her so, humans, to most, were just myths. It was only seeing one herself that made her think they were real. She searched all over for books, even checking Manehattens’ Grand Library. But no luck, she couldn’t find anything. Not even a page. Any questions she asked were given a polite, but stern, ‘no’. Eventually she learned that Celestia had banned the subject to keep silly ponies heads out of space. So, she returned home, the trail having dried up.

A few years passed by that way, she always kept an ear out, merchants learned things that way. She was sitting in the park, sketching the fountain one day when she heard a few voices behind her, out of the corner of her eye she saw Twilight Sparkle and Fluttershy.

“So, I’m going to see if Zecora has gotten any new potion recipes, she just got back from Zebrica.” The Unicorn said lightheartedly.

“Oh… Be careful Twilight…. The Basilisk…” The Pegasus replied, voice barely above a whisper.

“Don’t be silly Fluttershy, no one has seen it for like five years…. Not since that happened.”

Mabu swore she saw a soft look of pride on Fluttershys’ face, but they were too far gone to hear any more of the conversation.

Everyone thought the Everfree was such a dark and scary place. Mabu danced around some Poison Joke; it wasn’t really, she’d seen worse. The ponies were just so…slow... sometimes. They came crashing through these woods, making all kinds of noise and breaking stuff. Of course they ticked off creatures who made their homes here. There weren’t even that many monsters. Even if there were, she had her stave. And, though she’d hate to use them here, a few explosives she cooked up as a hobby. Most Ponies didn’t know all of what went on in her small “art” shop, though, of course she really sold all kinds of odds and ends.

Zecora’s house was big, but looked comfy. She trotted right up and rapped on the round door with her stave.

“Welcome please enter, come and be at your centre” The rhyming voice of Zecora filtered through the door. Mabu opened and entered into the cottage, breathing in air filled with the smells of every herb and spice. Zecora was standing at a large pot, she watched the small Pegasus trot in through the corner of her eye and turned to face her.

“Can you tell me anything about humans?” the foal instantly chirped.

“Well, well little filly, why would you want to know about something so silly?”

“I have…an interest in them.” She responded, ears twitching. “But… No… Pony… has any information, or knows anything. I’ve heard tell that the Princess has outlawed all information on the topic.”

Zecora laughed. “In my homeland, a place of dust and sand,
There is a city you will learn, made by dogs called Dogburn,
Surviving many disasters, ask the dogs of the Masters!”

Mabu returned to her home, the cryptic words ringing in her ears. ‘What the heck are Masters?’ She gathered her belongings and locked up her shop, leaving a note that she’d gone on another journey and that Carrot Top could pick up her paints at the post office. She glanced at the map the Zebra had given her…

“Dogburn, huh?”

Chapter 3

Flory rolled out of bed, it was early in the morning, but a Governor had duties. He strode over to the closet in the corner and took out a fresh coat. He pulled it on, feeling proud and dashing- the admiration he held for his garments was... admirable. He opened his door to the sound of the usual thud and clank of the Knight assigned to his room.

“My Lord!” The animated metal dog barked. Flory merely inclined his head; Knight Commander Rover had made a fine detachment of Dog Knights, but the arrogance they radiated often worried the Governor. Dogburn was a city that put forward beliefs on the value of all Dogs, elitist attitudes were not welcome. Yet still, Rover’s Knights were the most potent fighters in the city. Three of them destroyed a monster nest with no support whatsoever. Without a doubt, one of Rover’s Knights was worth his immense weight in gold in a fight

Flory made his way down the hall and found the pattering form of Spot hurrying towards him. “Governor,” she panted, “we have a casualty. Private Durnhauser was slain last night battling monsters in the eastern tunnels.”

Flory’s heart sank, “I see, thanks Spot. Does his family know?”

“Yes Governor, they are with his body at the infirmary now.”

“Thanks for telling me.” He responded in a downcast tone, “I’ll take my leave”. He left the Minister and headed out the main doors, making his way to the infirmary. The building appeared very similar to many of the other buildings in the city, yet boasted a simple medical symbol on the wall. On entrance he was directed to the morgue in the lower levels.

He was greeted with a sad scene. What appeared to be Durnhauser’s parents stood in the corner of the room. They held each other in a sad embrace, faces etched with grief. Draped over the body was the weeping form of a female. Flory didn’t have to guess that this was Durnhauser’s mate. He had read the report a nurse handed to him when he entered.

The elderly couple gave a start when they recognised who he was. They broke their embrace and bowed slightly. “My Lord Governor, “ the male spoke shaken, “you do us a great honor.”

Flory gestured, “Forget about formalities good sir, I have come to pay my respects to Dogburn’s finest.”

He slowly approached the bed and crying female. Durnhauser had been laid down respectfully. Looking down, Flory’s gut clenched with guilt and responsibility; though the Dog’s face bore the look of restful sleep, he could see that his body had been savaged. This had been no easy death for the brave soldier.

The guilt was the burden of leadership, and Flory would shoulder it. Every spark of glory given by shining uniforms and parades quickly faded away when one was faced with the broken body of a young Dog taken in his prime and those grieving souls left behind. Somewhere in the back of his mind, he secretly wished that he too could one day die for his people and repay every young Dog that had perished under his leadership.

The guilt ate away at him every time he saw this. He pulled his eyes away and rested a sad paw on the shoulder of the hunched female, she raised her head and their eyes met. Flory’s heart cracked as he held them, bloodshot from tears and grief. “I am so sorry.” It was all he could say. Her eyes welled up once more and she gave a wail that would haunt him for many years. He took his leave.

As the Governor walked, he was greeted with the happy scenes of everyday life: Merchants going about their business, Dogs going to work. The few guards he did see wore grim expressions. It seemed that the news of Durnhauser had spread across the ranks. He gave an understanding nod to one guard who returned it. He turned his gaze back to the merchants and was suddenly reminded of the strange little Pegasus with the desire for humans. He turned towards the town centre.

He took a moment to collect himself and rapped on the door to the spare room. He had expected the pup to be asleep, but was surprised when the door swung open and revealed Mabu ready with saddlebags and circlet on, ready and fully prepared to leave. “Well? Are we ready to go?” She asked, no-nonsense, and brushed past him, hooves clicking off the wood.

Flory shook his head, this little pony never ceased to surprise him. “Are you hungry little one?” He asked, amused to see her forehead wrinkle into an annoyed expression. Goading her seemed to bring out more emotion than anything else- he took it as a good sign.

She paused, “Yeah. We can stop. How much does it cost and what do you dogs eat?”

“Don’t worry about the price-,” He started, then realised a problem. “Well, I won’t lie to you. We Dogs eat meat. If you find this squeamish, I can have more pony-appropriate food sent to your room. Otherwise, feel free to join me for breakfast at the Dogbowl.”

Oddly, the prospect of eating meat didn’t disgust her. A small shudder passed through her tail, the Ponies would consider this pure savagery, yet she could not even summon the slightest inkling of any of these emotions. Puzzling.

“I can handle your savage ways, Governor.” She huffed. As the two walked together, she noticed many of the city citizens also headed the same direction. She glanced up at Flory.

“In Dogburn,” he began to explain, “we eat communally as we are one pack, or family. Food is prepared by our fine cooks then issued to the people from our mess hall: the Dogbowl. Dogs take turns eating in shifts so jobs don’t get neglected. Being Governor, I have the luxury of eating when I want. Perks of the job.”

The pair followed the tide of Dogs to a large hall. Mabu was met with the aroma of meat being cooked. She shook her head, shouldn’t the smell make her queasy? She dismissed it quickly and entered with the press of hungry dogs. Inside, she held large hardwood tables that had been coated with a fine finish. ‘Seems everything's large here.’ she thought a tad sarcastically.

Dogs lined up at the counter situated at the far end of the wall and began to receive their breakfast, carrying them to spare places at the tables and began to eat. Some noticed that the Governor was attending their shift for breakfast and smiles broke out amongst the line. This brought a sense of relief to Flory after the tragic scene he witnessed earlier that morning.

When the pair made it to their turn in the line, Flory requested if there was any ‘vegetarian’ food available. The cook nodded, glancing at Mabu quizzically and presented the pony with a tray featuring a meal of apples, carrots and steamed potatoes. “Oh,” he said, “I did not realise you couldn’t carry it- please allow me to for you.”

Flory gave a chuckle and shook his head, “Don’t worry, she can handle it.”

Mabu levitated the tray out of his paws. The astonished look of the caterer and the surrounding Diamond Dogs lead her to smirk. Flory shook his head amused, and moved to a table, taking his seat. The pony hopped up next to him.

He glanced at his meal with satisfaction. Bacon strips, sausage links, and mashed potatoes. A hearty meal that he began to eat with enthusiasm. He didn’t care whether or not Mabu found this repulsive, this was the way of his people and he would not make them change to suit others’ needs. He glanced down to his side, expecting Mabu to bear an outraged or disgusted look. Instead, she appeared not care as she chewed on an apple.

Her levitating trick was proving to be a novelty to the Dogs seated with them. They pointed and made amazed noises as they observed her eat. Flory gave a grunt and the Dogs resumed their meals, interesting or not it was still rude to stare at someone eating.

A Diamond Dog stood on his stool and tapped a glass with a fork. “My attention my good dogs,” he began, “I wish to bring to your attention that we have lost a brave soul today. My brother-in-law Durnhauser died last night battling monsters in the east tunnels. He gave his life for our safety and for our way of life. I ask for all of you to raise your glasses and toast a fine citizen and loving mate. May my poor sister find peace.”

Flory’s heart sank again hearing these words. His duty as Governor dictated that he should have made that statement. He felt he had let down his people.

At the same time Mabu felt a twinge. She had witnessed Durnhauser’s last moments in the city. She shook, making sure that her saddlebags covered her mark. She could have helped, but still felt it was not her place. With a glance up, she noticed the pained look on governor’s face. ‘The suffering of his people affects him greatly.’

She pulled her mind away, staring at tray. She still needed to focus. As soon as they finished, the Governor would take her to the archives. Maybe there would be some connection between the Masters and humans.

Chapter 4

Finished with his meal, the governor stood, making his way out of the Dogbowl. The foal glanced up, having been lost in her thoughts. Hurriedly she hopped off the bench and twined through the large bodies trying to catch up to him. She finally reached him at the entrance, but before they could exit the great doors flew open, filled with an enormous form of steel.

“My Lord!” a giant voice boomed, followed by a large clank as he brought his right arm over his chest in a salute.

“Knight Commander Rover.” The governor responded to the hulking creature. Mabu blinked in the new light, eyes clearing, she saw him more clearly. He looked like the knights she had seen earlier, but far larger than even the one that guarded the governors’ room. His armor was far more intricate as well, inlaid with gold plating. A deep blue cloak rested from his pauldrons. She felt a stirring and pushed her hooves into the ground, ‘He must be the leader.’ Seeming to notice her, Rover’s massive head turned and gazed in her direction.

“So,” he rumbled, “This is the little creature that I’ve heard so much about. What a little smear of flesh.”

A particularly tasteless comment, she was ready to snap back but held her tongue. Unless she was reckless, the beast would end her in an instant. She wasn’t stupid. She dug her hooves in more, concentrating on stilling the thrashing of her tail.

“And I cannot even fathom how such an insignificant creature could the attention of our Lord Governor. You are su-”

“That is ENOUGH!” Flory roared.

Rover took a startled step back, “My Lord....” he stuttered gracelessly. It surprised Mabu to see the giant have such a reaction.

“This nation was formed so that all could gain respect. So that no matter who you were were, you could be accepted for who you are. My father died for this belief and I will ensure it lives! You have done a fine job and I do appreciate it. However this elitist attitude you are grooming- it reeks of the old ways where the strong took from the weak. We are strong because we have each other and everyone pulls in one direction and one purpose. Every dog and even every pony. What would Sketchy think if she heard that?”

Rovers’ face turned into one of embarrassment, “...She’s...different...”

Mabu wondered what the two were talking about. What had the governor said that was making the beast act this way?

“No!” Flory barked back, “Everyone, every member of society, is valued. Every member is cherished- and you raise this despicable behavior when brave Private Durnhauser died for us!”

Rover dropped to one knee in a crash of metal, “My Lord, forgive me!” He sobbed, throwing the foal.

She watched the governor lean down and rest a paw on the Knight’s shoulder, “ I am sorry Rover, I lost my composure. You have done so much for us and I am very proud of you and your knights.” He said kindly, “Please though, remember to value all people worthy of such respect. You do not know Mabu and cannot judge her. Get to know her before making a decision. Please rise, I feel I have been too harsh with you.”

She thought quite contrary to the governor’s last remark, but remained silent as Rover stood and regained himself. “Think nothing of it My Lord. My apologies My Lady.” He left the pair, one not as trusting as the other, and moved to get his meal, thunderous foot falls heralding his passage. Unlike the governor, who seemed pleased, she didn’t trust the knight in the slightest. It would be a fools’ dream to think he would not harbor negative feelings for her after that display.

‘This isn’t important,’ she reminded herself, sliding through the door the governor held open and trotting out into the streets, hooves numb.

Flory led Mabu through the streets to an area that seemed to be an older part of Dogburn.

The Archive was a cramped-looking building dug out of the rock of the cave wall, torches sent out feeble light that trickled along the cobble. Flory pulled open the wooden door with furrowed eyebrows, the squeak it let out made it obvious the hinges needed oil. He seemed to mutter as much, but she was too busy darting through the doorway to catch what he said.

She gazed at the walls almost giddily, the scent of old books and leather filling the air and her; few things left her so content. It was dim in the foyer, but far larger than she’d imagined. She swung her head about, Flory was catching up.

“This way then.” He stepped past her into the next room, small taps letting him know she was almost on his tail. She was nearly losing her composure, he thought humored, obviously the pup was keen, nay, very keen to get any information about the Masters.

Where only one wall had held books in the previous room, this one had them up to the ceiling in any direction. Mabu came to an abrupt halt behind the governor who stood in front of a table patiently. It seemed that he had sent a messenger of some sort prior, because two figures working on different ends of the room promptly disappeared and came back a few minutes later carrying small chests.

The two set the chests down on the table and swiftly left, leaving the pair alone in the room and to their own devices. Flory slowly opened one of the chests, showing great care. The foal peeked around his arm, hooves perched on the top of the table. She could see a book and a few papers. They looked very old and brittle. Carefully, Flory withdrew a sheet of paper and laid it out on the wood.

“We haven’t got much. Old-Dog Fergus claimed he had found Floria, the old home of the Diamond Dogs. He had these artifacts on him and donated them to the Archive to teach us of our past... He died a few years ago.” Flory paused a moment, remembering the kind old Dog who was a staunch supporter of his father. Fergus had taught Flory and many puppies during their young years.

Mabu scanned the sheet of paper. An odd feeling filled her gut and her hooves slid back on the floor; she could read it. There wasn’t even a moment where the words came into focus, the letters just stood firm, and she understood every one. This ancient Diamond Dog relic was as clear as a cookbook.

“Subject A: Human Cloning.” She breathed unaware she was translating the words, “The first attempt was a failure. Cellular stability was compromised and the subject had to be destroyed. Not a total loss, DNA structures were recovered and we can begin to continue our...” With age, the writing had faded beyond legibility. The letters were odd, she noticed, they weren’t written by anypony she’d ever seen. It was too perfect. Each and every letter was exactly the same, no deviation. She was deeply puzzled, but a gasp made her shift her attention back to her surroundings. She turned to see the governor, his face a mask of shock.

“You can read the text?” In a quick motion, Flory dropped down on one knee and brought his face close to Mabu. She hated this invasion of personal space, but before she could step back his paws clamped around her shoulders. She loathed the contact, and was filled with discomfort, but his grip held her tight. Their eyes met and she saw he was focused purely on her. The look in them was unlike any instance since she had met him. These eyes harboured the desire of ambition and power, she was seeing a different Dog now. And she was too young to understand it.

“You can read the text of the Masters? You can actually read it?” He repeated, breathless with excitement.

“Yes.” The foal squirmed, she did not like this at all. His paws were too tight.

“This is wonderful! This is a joyous day! You can read all of this! The books and the texts of the Ancients! I wonder what secrets you could unlock? The tales, the technology! What we could learn... With this power I can bring my people to even greater heights!” He exclaimed in a euphoria of glee.

With each sentence his grip tightened, finally it was too much. Governor or not, she wouldn’t let anyone hurt her. She glanced about, the chest looked light enough. She concentrated and lifted the chest above Flory’s head. Then she let it drop. The chest struck the Dog’s head with a large crack. His face changed from glee to a sudden rage. Mabu feared she would be harmed. She closed her eyes and braced for the worst. But he let her go. She opened her eyes to a concerned Flory rather than the look of pure rage she had just seen. She relaxed but only slightly. It seemed that the good Governor could get angry. Maybe there was underlying rage... not everything was perfect under that fine coat.

“Mabu I...” Flory began while rising and turning his back on her, “I am sorry, there is no excuse for this behavior.” He gathered up the chest and placed it back on the table. “You can look over these for a long as you need. Then you are free to go. I am deeply sorry for my actions. Forgive me.” Flory left the small Pony at the table and walked out the hardwood doors of the Archive.

Chapter 5


“Thank you Spot.” Flory responded taking the papers from her. “If that’s all, feel free to go about your business.”

The Minister saluted then relaxed, a curious look creeping onto her face.

“Yes?” He asked, flipping through the documents.

“Sir, If I may, I’ve been wondering what happened to that Pegasus pup? Mabu was it?”

Flory’s paw froze, he lifted his eyes from the diagram. “I need to check on that. She was fine last I saw.” Flory took off, leaving his her in the dust.

“Sir, since you two came she’s done next to nothing but stare at those pages, look through that book and any other she seems to find with a connection to it. She goes out in the mornings for a bit, but besides that we can hardly get her to eat.” The Head Archivist, a greying Dog by the name of Vich, complained. Flory walked next to him eyebrows furrowed. After that display he had just gone home. Since, he had tried to bite his curiosity about what the results were... but alas.

Flory walked into the room. The Pony was parked at the table. She seemed a bit tired, but determined. She pushed a thread of her mane out of her eyes and flipped a page, deep in concentration.

“That’s not it.” She murmured, flipping to a different book. Flory watched her in silence. The tenacity of the pup astounded him.

“Any luck?” He said from the corner, where he had slid, leaning back, arms crossed, one foot in front of the other.

The foal neither jumped nor seemed surprised. “I had wondered when you would talk.” She glanced up for a moment, seeming to study his pose, another book lifted and her eyes scanned it. “So I’ve noticed that the Diamond Dogs here seem to walk straight, unlike those near the Ponyville Wastes. Is there a particular reason?”

Flory glanced down at the floor. It was true he knew, outside of Dogburn, most Diamond Dogs took to being hunched creatures, who, rather walk straight on their back legs and keep their paws clean, crawled on all fours in the dirt. “Their dams never taught them right.” He answered.

“You all behave like humans.” She murmured, changing texts again. This time it was the old book.

Flory started slightly, “Really? And how would yo-“

“Met one. Once.” She answered before he could finish.

“Really?” Flory stared at her oddly, “When they don’t exist?”

“They do. I guess. His name was Light. It was only for a few minutes though. He came into my shop to see if I had any polish for a sword then made his way out. Told me that he was on a charge to see all of Equestria. I didn’t have time to ask him any questions.” She sighed. “His hands were interesting.”

“Hands?” Flory asked, ‘The masters had hands’.

“That’s what he called them. They were kind of like your paws but very different. He could do a lot with them. It only took a moment to see.”

“I know what hands are.”

Mabu paused, glancing at him. “Really?”

“The Masters fed and taught us with them. Their hands and minds were their greatest tools.” He smirked, he had hooked her attention. She seemed about to ask something then looked back at the books.

The pair went back to silence. Only the sound of flipping pages breaking the dim silence. Flory pulled a book out of the shelf and flipped through it, claws softly tracing the outlines of the pictures, tracing the outlines of the mysterious runes that made words. Only Spot and a select few others knew the governor couldn’t read. Pictures and diagrams yes, but all else was lost to him.

“That’s all there is.” She muttered alongside a soft, final thump of a book on wood. Stretching slightly, she hopped off the table.

“You’re finished?” Flory glanced at the table; she had amassed a surprisingly large pile of books there. She had apparently read them all.

“Yeah.” She adjusted her saddlebags and made for the door. “Thank your librarians for me.”

He walked alongside her, “So did you find what you were looking for?” He saw Vich, seemingly relieved flee into the back room, an odd sound issued from the doorway. ‘He must have found the books.’

“It was a start.”

It had to be midday, all of Dogburns’ lanterns were lit.

“So. Governor. I must thank you for your hospitality. I will be taking my leave now.” She said simply, heading in the direction of the main gates.

“Whoa there.” Flory replied concerned. “You need a guard to take you to the surface. It’s our way.”
The filly paused, “…? I came down here on my own fine.”

“Really…” He frowned, he would be having a strict word with the Knights. The upside guards were supposed to escort everyone. “Well, my apologies. But you will have a guard lead you to the surface, there are many tunnels and it is easy to get lost. I will accompany you as well.”

“Very well.”

And he had expected her to put up a fight.

Chapter 6 The guards walked to either side of the pair, a formation of six, one a Knight and the rest grunts. It was dim in the tunnels, and there was a slight, unplaceable odor. One of the guards held a torch.

“We are nearly half way now.” The Knight spoke, eyes drifting around under his helmet.

Flory had explained to Mabu early in that there was an abundance of monster nests- as she had already guessed. So anyone who was to descend to Dogburn needed a guard. Surprisingly, though the Dogs hated the monsters, they also admitted it was a bit of a double edged sword. They were less likely to get invaded due to the danger of it.

They said the exit tunnel was usually safe.

“So. I am interested in possibly setting up trade here.” The pony avoided a sharp rock on the ground.

“Not such a bad idea. But that is a distance to travel.”

“It’s not too bad.” She shrugged, “Just a bit of a walk.”

“…You walked here…”

“By myself. And what do you expect. Not really any trains here.”

“You have…Wings.”

She neglected to respond.