The Demon-Mare of Fleet Street: The ReBoot

by White Fang

Chapters

My Hoof is Complete Again!
The Judge Arrives
The Epiphany
Are you still Beautiful and Fair?
Rescue and Revenge!

My Hoof is Complete Again!

It was night, the midnight fog rolled through the low lining clouds, as the incoming air ship broke through. Above deck, several sailor ponies ran about, orders shouted to prepare the ship to land by the incoming city. Among these sailors was an orange Earth mare with a long, blonde mane, who leaned against the edge of the deck and saw the approaching city.

"I have sailed the world, beheld its wonders." The mare couldn't help but almost sing with her joy. "From the Badlands, to the Frozen North. But there's no place like Canterlot!"

"No, there's no place like Canterlot..." A lavender Unicorn with a blue and violet mane interrupted.

"Mr. Shine?" The Earth mare said.

"You are young...Life has been kind to you..." The Unicorn explained. "You will learn...There's a hole in the world like a great black pit and the vermin of the world inhabit it and its morals aren't worth what a pig can shit; and it goes by the name of Canterlot..."

The mare remained silent, but could feel the subtle sorrowful anger in Shine's voice.

"At the top of the hole sit the privileged few." Shine continued. "Making mock of the vermin in the lonely zoo. Turning beauty to filth and greed...I too have sailed the world and seen its wonders, for the cruelty of ponies is as Frozen as the North...but there's no place like Canterlot!"

The ship landed at the docks, located near the bottom area of the mountain the city of Canterlot rested on. All travelers and sailors exited the ship, carrying luggage of some kind. But Shine carried nothing, he had neither bags nor anything on him. The mare from earlier came off the ship with him.

"I must thank you Applejack." Shine said. "I would've been lost at sea without your aid."

"Twas nothing Mr. Shine." Applejack smiled. "What kinda good pony would I be without helping a fellow in need." But then she saw an almost spaced expression on Shine's face. "Mr.Shine? Are you alright?"

Shine was silent, almost staring off into nothing. Nothing was ahead of him but an empty, dark street. But then he realized the mare said something to him.

"I beg your indulgence, Applejack." Shine apologized. "But my mind is far from easy. And these very streets are filled with shadows...Every last one of 'em."

"Shadows?" Applejack asked.

"Ghosts." Shine answered, his tone was filled with sorrow. "There was a barber and her wife and she was beautiful...a foolish barber and her wife. She was her reason for her life...and she was beautiful,and she was virtuous. And she was naive."

"What happened sir?" Applejack asked.

"There was another mare who saw that she was beautiful..." Shine answered with disgust and sadness. "A pious vulture of the law who, with a gesture of her claw, 'removed the barber from his plate! Then there was nothing but to wait!' And she would fall!...So soft!...So young!...So lost and oh, so beautiful!..."

"Oh!" Applejack replied. "The lady sir, did she...succumb?"

"Ah, that was many years ago..." Shine replied, his hooves covering his eye as if to cover tears but no tears were shed. "I doubt if anyone would know." Shine then looked back at Applejack. "I'd like to thank you, Applejack....If you hadn't spotted me, I'd be lost in the ocean still."

"Will I see you again?" Applejack asked.

"You may find me...If you like." Shine answered. "Around Fleet Street. I wouldn't wander..."

"Till then, my friend." Applejack let out her hoof for a hoofshake but Shine ignored it.

Before the two could separate, they heard the low shrill sound of a mare.

"Bits! Bits! For a miserable pony!" The mare, covered from head to hoof in rags called out, her voice was shrill and almost half mad in tone. "On a miserable chilly-" But then the ragged mare looked at both Applejack and Shine. "Oh would you like a little rump rut, a little bushing, a little fun in the-"

"AWAY WITH YOU!!" Shine shouted. "And may Nightmare Moon take you and your madness away!"

"WAAAHHH!!!!NNOOOO!!!!" The mare screeched and galloped away.

"Away for fifteen years." Shine mumbled to himself. "And the mad still roam the streets as the rich get fat."

There were no more words, Shine left his companion and made his way into Canterlot. As Shine made his stern way down the dark, murky streets. He continued to mumble a bit:

"There's a hole in the world like a great black pit and it's filled with people who are filled with shit, And the vermin of the world inhabit it.."

Shine made his way, through memory, reached his old home. But something was different; the barber shop he once ran was still atop the building, but the lower parts, once his home, was now a bakery. Pie's Bakery it was called. Shine walked into the store, having a quick look around. The place was dusty and dirty, as if it had nopony around for weeks, if not months. The sound the door made opening was silent but when the door closed, there was a bit of a bang.

"A CUSTOMER!!" A mare's voice loudly shouted.

Running into the room was a pink Earth mare with a darker pink mane that lay straight over the side of her face. But her grin was the most disturbing. Shine went to turn and leave but the mare caught him.

"Wait! What's your rush? What's your hurry?" The mare cheered. "You gave me such a fright I thought you was a ghost. Half a minute can't you sit, sit you down, sit!" The mare forced Shine to sit at the closest, dusty table."All I meant is that I haven't seen a customer for weeks."

The mare then leaped over the counter towards her cooking station, if you could call it that.

"Did you come in for a cupcake?" The mare asked, completely ignoring Shine's attempt to interrupt her. "Do forgive me if my head's a little vague. What was that?"

She then smashed a cockroach with her hoof. "But you'd think we had the plague. From the way that ponies keep avoiding! No you don't!" She then smashed another roach. "Heaven knows I try, sir! But there's no one comes in even to inhale!"

She then dusted of a mug and slid it to Shine. "Right you are, sir, would you like a drop of cider? Mind you I can hardly blame them! These are probably the worst cupcakes in Canterlot. I know why nobody cares to take them! I should know! I make them! But good? No...The worst cupcakes in Canterlot...Even that's polite! The worst cupcakes in Canterlot! If you doubt it take a bite!"

Despite his best judgement, Shine took a bite of the oddly colored cupcake. Hopefully the green was a dye and not mold.

"Is that just disgusting? You have to concede it! It's nothing but crusting!" The mare poured another mug of cider. "Here drink this, you'll need it. The worst cupcakes in Canterlot. And no wonder with the price of flour, what it is, when you get it. Never thought I'd live to see the day. Pony'd think it was a treat findin' poor animals that are dyin' in the street."

The mare leaped back behind the counter and started mixing batter.

"Mrs. Cake has a pie shop." Her voice sounded a mix of jealousy and irritation. "Does a business, but I notice something weird. Lately, all her neighbors cats have disappeared. Have to hand it to her! What a course, enterprise! Poppin' kitties into pies!"

Her tone now became one of more pride. "Wouldn't do in my shop! Just the thought of it's enough to make you sick! And I'm telling you them kitty cats is quick."

She then poured her mixed batter into dirty cupcake pans and popped them in the large, rusty oven. "No denying times is hard, sir! Even harder than the worst cupcakes in Canterlot. Only lard and nothing more- Is that just revolting? All greasy and gritty? It looks like it's molting! And tastes like...well pity. A mare all alone...with limited wind. And the worst cupcakes in Canterlot!...Ah, sir..Times is hard....Times is hard!" She then smashed a large roach that had the misfortune to go across the counter.

"Here you go." The mare suggested. "It'll take more than that to wash the taste out." She then lifted Shine up. "Let's go get a shot of Gin."

After a few shots, the mare was in a tipsy state. Her mane looked like it was getting lighter in color and looked like it was getting curlier. But...it was still a dark, straight state.

"You look like you're not from here." The mare said, noticing that the stallion customer drank as much as she did but looked unaffected. "What's your name?"

"......" Shine remained quiet and lost in thoughts.

"Well I'm Pinkamena Diane Pie." Pinkamena said. "But call me Pinkamena, or Pinkie if you like."

"What happened to this place?" Shine asked openly, supposedly to himself but Pinkie heard him.

"This used to be a house." Pinkie answered. "Years ago, a barber lived here and his shop was upstairs."

"What happened?" Shine asked.

"There was a barber and her wife. And she was beautiful..." Pinkie answered, telling the story. "A proper artist with a knife, but they transported her for life. And she was beautiful...Sparkle her name was. Twilight Sparkle."

"What was her crime?" Shine asked.

"Foolishness..." Pinkie said. "She had this wife, ya see. Pretty little thing, silly little nit. Had her chance for the Moon on a string...Poor thing! Poor thing!" Pinkie took another shot, her tone became sadder. "There was this judge, ya see...Wanted her like mad! Everyday she sent her a flower But did she come down from her tower? Sat up there and sulked by the hour....Poor fool!"

"What befell her?" Shine asked.

"Ah, but there was worse yet to come...Poor thing!" Pinkie took a sigh. "Well, Spike calls on her all polite...Poor thing! Poor thing! The judge, she tells her, is all contrite. She blames himself for her dreadful plight. She must come straight to her house tonight!...Poor thing!...Poor thing!"

"Spike?" Shine asked.

"The judge's right hand." Pinkie answered. "Of course when she goes there...Poor thing! Poor thing! They're having this ball all in masks. There's no one she knows there! Poor dear! Poor thing! She wonders, tormented and drinks! Poor thing! The judge has repented, she thinks. Poor thing! 'Oh where is Judge Rarity?' she asks..."

"Poor thing." Shine mumbled, taking another shot, still unaffected by the alcohol.

"He was there, alright! Only not so contrite!" Pinkie continued. "She wasn't no match for such craft, ya see. And everyone thought it so droll. They figured she had to be daft, ya see. So all of them stood there and laughed, ya see! Poor soul!...Poor thing!"

"NO!" Shine shouted. "Would no one have mercy on her?"

"So it is you." Pinkie's eyes sparkled. "Twilight Sparkle."

"No! Not Sparkle. She died in that cell." Shine said. "It's Shine now - Dusk Shine. And he will have his revenge."

"So long and so much change." Pinkamena said.

"Where is my wife? Where is my Rainbow Dash?" Dusk asked.

"Dead." Pinkie said remorsefully. "Poisoned herself. "And the judge has your daughter."

"My little Fluttershy is all grown." Dusk said. "Fifteen years, sweating and rotting on a trumped charge. I had hoped that I could come home to a loving wife and child. But it can never be. I will have him!"

"Go after judge Rarity." Pinkie almost chuckled. "A 'stallion' with no bit to his name in a broken down cupcake shop, get the eye of the judge, don't make me laugh."

"I will." Dusk stated, very determined. "Even if I must sweat and bleed again, I WILL HAVE THEM!!"

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

A yellow Pegasus with the most beautiful, flowing pink mane, sat sadly by the window. She often gazed out into the world and watched the ponies in the streets. As far back as she could remember, all she's known was looking out the window but never being allowed to leave. But in her sorrow, he beautiful voice could be heard.

"Green finch, and linnet bird, Nightingale, blackbird, How is it you sing? How can you jubilate sitting in cages never taking wing? Outside the sky waits beckoning! Beckoning!"

Several ponies were crossing in front of her home today. It must be a busy day. But the more she saw, the more sorrow and loneliness she felt.

"Just beyond the bars... How can you remain staring at the rain maddened by the stars? How is it you sing anything? How is it you sing? Green finch. and linnet bird, nightingale, blackbird How is it you sing?"

It seems her voice attracted the attention of one pony. In the streets, Applejack, with a small saddle bag was wondering the streets lost, when she hear the most beautiful of voices. Looking up, she saw the goddess-like beauty of this yellow pony. This pony, in turn, saw Applejack and was immediately captivated as well. Her spirit was now a tad lifted, she has never beheld a mare that made her heart go so fast. But her voice also attracted another gaze. Behind the wall, two white hooves removed a nearby painting, revealing a tiny peep hole to which the mystery pony stared into it, gazing upon the sweet sounding pony. The Pegasus and Applejack stared at each other. Although they have just met, it is as if they have always known each other. But this was interrupted when the Pegasus turned her gaze into the room as if being called away from it.

"Bits , bits for a miserable pony!" A ragged covered pony walked up to Applejack, her blue hoof extended. "On a miserable chilly morning."

Applejack pulled out a few bits and gave it to the ragged pony.

"Thank ya, thank ya kindly...." The beggar pony thanked as she began to walk away."

"One moment, madam." Applejack stopped the pony. "Perhaps you know whose house this is?"

"That? That's the great Judge Rarity's house, that is." The pony replied.

"And the young mare who resides there?" Applejack asked.

"Oh her? That's Fluttershy, her pretty little ward...but don't you go trespassin' there, young pony!" She warned, her voice almost sounded like a mad mare. "Not if you value your hide! Go there, and it's a good whippin' for ya, or any other youth with mischief on their mind!"

Applejack, though worried about what might befall her, stepped towards the house, her thoughts became words.

"I feel you, Fluttershy, I feel you. I was half convinced I'd waken, Satisfied enough to dream you. Happily I was mistaken, Fluttershy. I'll steal you, Fluttershy, I'll steal you."

The door of the house opened. A white Unicorn mare with a rather beautiful and well kept purple mane stood there.

"Come in my dear." The mare said, beckoning to Applejack.

Applejack nodded politely and walked in. The house was well furnished and the walls and shelves were lined with old and fancy looking books and other strange nic-nacs.

"You appear to be a sailor." The unicorn inquired.

"Yes ma'am." Applejack said as politely as she could. "I was looking for Fleet street, but became lost. Rather embarrassing a sailor lose their way actually."

"As a sailor I assume you have seen the world?" The mare asked, ignoring Applejack's words.

"I have seen some ways of the world." Applejack responded.

"The brothels of Greece, the courtesans of Saddle Arabia, the geisha of the East." The mare said. "I have them you know. Pictures. Would you like to see them."

"I'm afraid there has been a misunderstanding." Applejack tried to remain polite.

"Clearly." The mare said, approaching Applejack, you could now feel a sense of anger and insult. "You gandered at my ward, you gandered at my Fluttershy."

"I'm sorry ma'am." Applejack said, unaware of a third figure entering the room. "I meant no offense."

"Now you lie?" The mare said, if her eyes were daggers, Applejack would be dead. "Mark me. If I ever see you on this street, you will rue the day you were born."

The mare looked up and gestured another figure, who turns out was a small dragon with a fancy top hat, cape and cane. The dragon took a hold of Applejack and next thing she knew, Applejack was quite violently thrown out the back of the house.

"Looking for Fleet street are you?" The dragon said. "Well you take a right, then a left that way." The dragon noticed Applejack was groaning a bit, maybe throwing her hurt her a tad. "Move along then!" The dragon began lashing at Applejack with his cane in a violent manner, leaving Applejack bleeding a bit on the ground. "You heard Judge Rarity, if we spy you here again; it will be your pretty brains along the pavement."

Leaving her in her pain and blood, Applejack struggled to get up. But this threat didn't deter her like so many. Applejack was more and more infatuated by the beautiful Fluttershy.

"I'll steal you, Fluttershy, I'll steal you. Do they think that walls could hide you? Even now, I'm at your window. I am in the dark beside you, Buried sweetly in your pink mane! I feel you, Fluttershy, And one day I'll steal you! Til I'm with you then, I'm with you there, Sweetly buried in your pink mane!"

Applejack was now concocting a plan to steal away with Fluttershy, but she would need help.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

"You wouldn't believe how long I kept these." Pinkamena said, pulling at the floor board.

Dusk looked around the upstairs barber shop Pinkamena brought him to. Back when he called himself Twilight, this room was his barber shop and his home. The room looked almost run down, a rusty carriage, peeling walls, dusty tables and counters, and a large cracked mirror.

"Ah here it is." Pinkamena said with a delighted smile, pulling a small dusty box out of the hold in the floor. "Times were tough and almost sold these. Glad I didn't."

Dusk looked over and his eyes almost gleamed as he recognized the box. "Those are."

"Recognize them you do?" Pinkamena stated. "Your old razors. The silver still shines." Pinkamena handed one razor to Dusk.

"Silver." Dusk said. "These are my friends. See how they glisten. See this one shine... How he smiles in the light. My friend. My faithful friend..."

Dusk placed the razor close to his ear. "Speak to me friend. Whisper...I'll listen. I know, I know you've been locked out of sight all these years, like me My friend... well I've come home to find you waiting home, and we're together! And we'll do wonders. Won't we? You there, my friend?"

You there my friend

I'm your friend too, Mr. Shine

Come let me hold you.

If you only knew, Mr. Shine. Ooh, Mr. Shine

Now, with a sigh, you grow warm in my hoof.

You're warm in my hoof.

My friend!

You've come home!

My clever friend...

Always had a fondness for you, I did.

Rest now, my friends.

Never you fear, Mr. Shine

Soon, I'll unfold you.

You can move in here, Mr. Shine

Soon you'll know splendors

Mr. Shine, splendors.

You never have dreamed all your days

You never have dreamed all you days,

will be yours!

my lucky friends

I'm your friend and you're mine!

Don't they shine beautiful?

'Til now your shine was merely silver.

Silver's good enough for me, Mr. Shine.

Friends, you shall drip rubies, you'll soon drip precious... rubies

"Leave us." Dusk told Pinkamena to which she left.

After all those long, painful years suffering in that cell, Dusk was able to get one thing back from Twilight. Now was the time for her revenge. Rainbow Dash was lost and Fluttershy would never recognize him.

Dusk raised the razor in his hoof, extending it towards the window. "AT LAST! MY HOOF IS COMPLETE AGAIN!"

The Judge Arrives

It was the next day and Dusk and Pinkamena set out on the streets to advertise so to speak.

"The barber of barber, the queen of all barbers. The Great and Powerful Trixie?" Dusk read a sign on a rather large carriage in the middle of the square.

"Don't know where she's from." Pinkie said. "But she's all the rage."

"Not for long." Dusk gave a very faint smile.

"You think you can beat her?" Pinkie asked, raising a eyebrow, then looking across the square, saw a little dragon in a hat and cane. "And it's Spike over there."

"Even better." Dusk said, but then his next line was interrupted by the sound a drum playing.

Looking over at the carriage, which was actually big enough where it had it's own small stage, an orange pegasus filly with a raggedy purple hat covering her mane started beating on a drum, getting everyponies attention.

"Mares and gentlecolts, may I have your attention please! Do you wake every morning in shame and despair to discover your pillow is covered with hair what ought not to be there? Well, mares and gentlecolts, from now on you can waken at ease. You need never again have a worry or care, I will show you a miracle marvellous rare. Gentlecolts, you are about to see something what rose from the dead - on the top of my head."

Taking off her hat, the filly revealed a raggedy but still impressive purple mane, unlike the pones around her which looked like their manes could fall off any minute. The crowd gave a good ohh and ahh at this sight, it was quite impressive. But the filly continued her speel.

"'Twas Trixie's Miracle Elixir. That's what did the trick, sir, true, sir, true. Was it quick, sir? Did it in a tick, sir, just like an elixir ought to do. How about a bottle, mister? Only costs a bit, guaranteed."

The filly poured a bit of this "elixir" on the bald head of a nearby stallion, using her hoof to rub it in.

"Does Trixie's stimulate the growth, sir? You can have my oath, sir. 'Tis unique. Rub a minute, stimulatin' i'n' it? Soon you'll have to thin it once a week!"

Dusk and Pinkie were not impressed by this.

"What's that awful stench?" Dusk asked openly.

"Are we standing near and open trench?" Pinkie asked openly as well.

Obviously being affected by Dusk and Pinkie's comments, the filly kept trying to sell.

"Buy Trixie's Miracle Elixir, anything what's slick, sir. Soon sprouts curls. Try Trixie's. When they see how thick, sir,

you can have your pick, sir, of the girls. Wanna buy a bottle, mister?"

"What is this?" Dusk looked the bottle over. "Smells like piss."

Then Pinkie took a whiff and agreed. "This is piss, piss with ink."

The filly tried getting louder. "Let Trixie's activate your roots, sir. Yes, get Trixie's! Use a bottle of it, mares seem to love it!"

"Flies do too!" Pinkie added, to the laugh of the crowd.

The door of the carriage almost burst open to a blue glow. Stepping out of the carriage was a blue unicorn mare, her almost white yet light blue mane flowed in the wind. On her back was an elegant looking silk cape with sparkling star images upon them.

"I am the Great Trixie the Famous and Powerful Trixie, the Queen of the barbers, the barber of Queens. I blow you all a kiss." This mare clearly had a massive ego issue. "And the so Great and Powerful, I wish to know, who has the gall to say, my elixir is piss...you says this?"

"I do." Dusk stepped forward. "I am Dusk Shine, and I have had a bottle of Trixie's before and I tell you all it is a fraud, of piss and ink. And further more, I have serviced no queens, but I wager I can shave a cheek with ten times the dexterity as any showmare."

Trixie's eyes widened with a lot of anger but she composed herself, not wanting to make a scene.

"You see these razors?" Dusk held them up with his magic, making sure Trixie got a good look. "I'll wager them against five bits that you are no match for me."

There were hushed whispers in the crowd.

"These are indeed fine razors!" Trixie complimented, looking at them. "Instruments like these, once seen, are not soon forgotten. You'd wager these against five bits?! Ha, you see this foolish pony, five bits it is!"

"Friends, neighbors, who's for a free shave?" Dusk announced to the excited crowd.

After everything was set up, all that was left was a judge for this contest.

"Will Spike be the judge?" Dusk asked openly.

"Glad as always." Spike made his way through the crowd. "To help my friends and neighbors."

Both Trixie and Dusk set up their stations

Trixie began her process, but she was prideful, arrogant even. She couldn't resist lecturing about her process:

To shave-a da face,

To pull-a da toot',

Require da grace

And not-a da brute,

For if-a you slip,

You nick-a da skin,

You clip-a da chin,

You rip-a da lip a bit

And dat's-a da trut'!

As Trixie went at it with her shaving, which looked rather painful, Dusk had barely finished sharpening his. It looked like Trixie was winning. But Trixie paid no mind, she was too into her zone.

To shave-a da face

Or even a part,

Widout it-a smart

Require da heart.

It take-a da art.

I show you a chart

I study-a starting in my yout'!

Dusk's sharpening was still happening while Trixie's was half way shaved. This confused the crowd and even Trixie was feeling very offended that this boastful Dusk hasn;t even begun and yet claims he can beat her; her the barber of Queens.

To cut-a da hair,

To trim-a da bear,

To make-a da bristle

Clean like a whistle.

Dis is from early infancy

Da talent give to me

By Celestia!

Finally, Dusk finished the sharpening, so sharp it could split a hair twice. But Trixie knew she won, there was no way this pony could catch up to her without screwing up.

It take-a da skill,

It take-a da brains,

It take-a da will

To take-a da pains,

It take-a da pace,

It take-a da grace--

A sudden piercing whistle noise interrupted Trixie and she quickly turned to the source. It was Spike and he gestured his claw at Dusk.

"The winner is Todd. " Spike said.

Trixie looked at Dusk who was done. The pony, who had an even bigger beard than the one Trixie was working with was shaved, smoother than a filly's flank. The crowd erupted with cheers and laughter. Trixie was defeated and humiliated. But Trixie had no choice.

"I bow to a skill far greater than my own." Trixie modestly bowed.

"The five bits." Dusk gestured his hoof.

"My Celestia's Sun smile upon you." Trixie smiled, then turned to her filly companion. "Come Scootaloo." With a swift kick of the hoof, Trixie brought the filly into her carriage, most likely to beat the poor thing.

"Poor thing." Pinkamena said to Dusk. "Too bad most fillies and colts these days either go to the work house, or get picked up by sme pony to be beaten."

"That was quite the performance Mr. Shine." A pony walked up to Dusk. "Tell me, do you have your own establishment?"

"Why he certainly does." Pinkamena intervened. "Dusk Shine's Barbary, right above my Bakery on Fleet Street."

Dusk was rather, unemotional about winning, but his mood changed when he saw it served his purposes. He saw the scales of Spike walking up to him.

"Mr. Shine." Spike greeted. "Such skill and yet so unknown, yet your face seems almost familiar to me."

"Nonsense." Pinkamena interrupted. "Why he's my cousin's uncle coming in from Manehatten, where he's lived all his life."

"And yet, since my arrival." Dusk used flattery. "I have heard the name Spike used in the most utmost respectful manner."

"Well I do what I can to help my friends and neighbors." Spike answered, giving into the flattery. "Your establishment is on Fleet Street correct? I may consider coming to get my scales trimmed."

"And I promise you dear sir." Dusk's eyes almost lit up with excitement. "And without a bits charge, the closes shave you've ever known."

"Is that so." Spike raised an eyebrow. "Then you shall expect me before the week's out. Good day."

With his victory secured, Dusk was ready to formulate his plans. First the Spike, then the Judge, and his revenge would be complete.

___________Back at Dusk's Barber Shop___________

Pinkamena and Dusk were sitting in the small, dusty room.

"Kinda bare, isn't it? I never did like a bare room." Pinkamena commented, just wiping the dust off the wall and large mirror with her hoof. Her pink hoof became brown with the amount of dust. "What do you think?"

"It's fine for what I need." Dusk looked anxious, almost twitchy. "Why doesn't Spike come? 'Before the week is out,' that's what he said."

"Who said the week is out. It's only Tuesday." Pinkamena said, moving over to Dusk, giving him a loving hug from behind, as the livid pony tossed a knickknack hard against the wall. "Easy now. Hush, love, hush. Don't distress yourself, What's your rush? Keep your thoughts Nice and lush....Simply wait."

"I don't need patience." Dusk said, in a subtly aggressive tone. "I want blood, I want revenge, I want justice."

"I know love I know." Pinkamena started petting Dusk's mane like she would a small child. "Hush, love, hush. Think it through. Once it bubbles, Then what's to do? Watch it close. Let it brew. Wait." Pinkamena then looked around the room. "Hmmm I've been thinking, flowers-- Maybe daisies-- To brighten up the room. Don't you think some flowers, Pretty daisies, Might relieve the gloom? What do you think?"

"And the judge?" Dusk looked up at the mare holding him. "When will I get to her?"

"Can't you think of nothing else?" Pinkamena pouted, letting Dusk go from her hug. "Always broodin' away on yer wrongs what happened heaven knows how many years ago! Don't you know, Silly pony, Half the fun is to plan the plan? All good things come to. Those who can...Wait. Which is funny coming from me love. So don't worry, I'm sure Spike and the Judge will come to you."

There was then a sudden ringing sound. The sound of a customer. Was it Spike, or even Judge Rarity? Suddenly, a familiar earth mare burst into the room.

"Applejack?!" Dusk exclaimed in surprise.

"Mr. Shine!" Applejack said, shaking the hoof of her friend. "I need your help. Oh and I can see you're already in business, well congradulations to you sir. And you are?"

"Pinkamena Diane Pie." Pinkamena said. "But you can call me Pinkie if it suits your fancy."

"You said you needed help Applejack?" Dusk was curious at what his 'friend' needed.

"I have found the most beautiful mare in all of Canterlot." Applejack explained. "But there is a problem."

"And that is?" Dusk asked, subtly losing patience.

"She has a guardian. So tyrannical that she shuts her up from pony eyes." Applejack continued explaining, but then showed a small metal key. "But just as I passed her window this morning, this fell from aloft. This must be proof, a sign that Fluttershy loves me."

"Fluttershy?!" Pinkamena said in surprise, worried how Dusk would react.

Dusk's eye were unrecognizable. He was either excited, infuriated, or possibly both.

"That's her name ma'am." Applejack, oblivious to Dusk's expression answered. "And her guardian is a judge of some kind, Rarity I think her name is."

This day was just getting better and better. Dusk could use this to his advantage.

"But this brings to my need of help Mr. Shine." Applejack asked in a near pleading tone. "When the judge goes to court, I will sneak into the house and ask Fluttershy to run away with me. But when I do, I need a place to hide her until I find a coach to bring us to Ponyville."

"Bring her here." Pinkamena offered.

"Oh that is great news!" Applejack almost skipped in joy. "And do I have your consent Mr. Shine?"

"She can stay." Dusk's most emotionless tone answered.

"Oh thank you sir!!" Applejack could almost hug the two of them for their help. "I will be in debited to you to the grave, oh but I must go, as the judge must be in court now!"

After Applejack trotted out of ear shot, Pinkamena couldn't help but burst into a hearty laughter. "Oh Fluttershy! Who would've thought. This is beyond perfect Dusk!"

"Yes." Dusk said in a annoyed tone. "Just to watch my child go off with some pony."

"Well since you're into the whole...." Pinkamena simulated the look of slitting a throat. "Maybe you can do the same to that Pony Applejack. And you can have Fluttershy home with you again."

There was then another knock at the door. Dusk then looked out the window, seeing the sight of a certain blue mare standing at the shop's door. "Is that Trixie? What does she want?"

___________Canterlot Court of Law___________

In the large courtroom, the Judge Rarity stood at the large pedestal in her black attire, her magic holding the gavel high. Her white coat was shimmering as if she was an embodiment of justice, even though the case she was presiding over was less than justified.

"Pipsqueak your name was?" Rarity said, staring down at the terrified earth colt in the accused seat. "This is the third time you have been seen in this court. Your constant obsession to crime is both an abomination to Celestia herself. I therefore see no other alternative but to sentence you to be hung by the neck until dead. And may the Princesses have mercy on your soul."

After the court case, Judge Rarity made her way out to the main doors. Like always, waiting for her was her trusted adviser and obedient servant, Spike.

"Exceptional work today my lady." Spike said with great flattery. "Just the kind of sentence we wanted."

"Was the colt guilty?" Rarity asked, completely apathetic of the fact that the colt she just sentenced to death may have been innocent.

"We if he wasn't, I'm sure he must have done something to earn the noose." Spike nodded.

"What pony has not?" Rarity pondered to herself. "Come Spike, walk with me."

Spike unfolded his walking cane and gracefully walked besides Rarity. It was not a major secret, but Spike had a long held crush and affection for Rarity, but he never could admit his feelings. He knew that Rarity would never take Spike for who he was. But Spike still continued to do Rarity's dirty work. Twisting arms and breaking knees to make sure Rarity was happy. In fact, it was Spike who suggested that Twilight Sparkle may have committed some crime that led to her banishment and imprisonment. But Spike made sure that Rarity believed that Twilight committed the crime, whatever it took to make his Judge happy.

"I have news for you, my friend." Rarity said with confidence. "In order to shield her from the evils of this world I have decided to marry my dear Fluttershy."

"Oh, ma'am, happy news indeed!" Spike said, though his heart skipped a beat from the pain of the news.

"Strange, though." Rarity pondered aloud. "When I offered myself to her she showed a certain... reluctance."

"Excuse me my lady, may I request my lady permission my lady to speak?" Spike asked as politely as he could.

"Speak freely Spike." Rarity said.

"Forgive me if I suggest my lady you're looking less than your best my lady. Your coat is not at it's best, my lady and your mane is a tad disheveled. And mares, my lady, are weak"

"Disheveled , you say?" Rarity said, normally such talk would be an insult resulting in her full wrath. But today she looked in the nearby window and saw how she looked. "Perhaps I am a little over-hasty in the mornings."

"Fret not though my lady, I know a place my lady, a barber my lady of skill." Spike said, trying to cheer her up. "Thus art with a pampered face my lady. Some eau de perfume to place my lady. And to enhance the chase my lady. You'll dazzle the mare until...

"Until?" Rarity was intrigued and asked.

"She bows to your every will." Spike gave a bit of a wicked smile, almost gesturing what he promises Fluttershy may do to Rarity.

"A barber? Take me to him." Rarity asked. "What's his name?"

"His name is Dusk Shine my lady." Spike asked. "And he is by far the greatest I've ever met."

___________Back at Dusk Shine's Barber Parlor___________

Dusk and Trixie were sitting in Dusk's shop. Pinkamena took the filly Trixie was with down to the bakery to feed the starving looking filly as the two upstairs did their business.

"Now what do you want Ms. Trixie?" Dusk asked, somewhat cautiously.

"Call me Lulamoon." Trixie's accent became more uneducated and foreign sounding. "As we will soon be partners. I'll take my five bits back."

"Partners?! And why?" Dusk asked seriously.

"And not just the five bits, but half your earnings every Friday." Trixie grinned in a near victorious manner. "Ms. Twilight Sparkle."

"What did you say?!" Dusk's body almost froze from surprise.

"I don't expect you to remember me. Why should you?" Trixie walked over and levitated one of Dusk's razors. "I was just a simple filly, didn't even have a cutie mark you hired to sweep up hair. But I remember these razors, and you. Ms. Twilight Sparkle, the greatest barber and hair stylist in all of Canterlot. Later sent to that Celestia forsaken prison...FOR LIFE!!"

Dusk's body became tense, how could something like this happen. A mare from the old days recognizing him, and now daring to blackmail him. His eyes soon looked at the heating up kettle of tea that was heating up. If he had to, Dusk knew what to do.

"So 'Mr. Dusk Shine' will you agree to my terms?" Trixie moved her ody closer to the tensed up Dusk. "Or should I run down the street and fetch my friend Spike?"

That sealed Trixie's fate. In one fell swoop, Dusk grabbed the heated kettle with his magic and smacked Trixie across the face, knocking her down. Before Trixie could shout, Dusk was on top of her, denying her escape and the levitating kettle continued its barrage against her face. Until her head fell to the floor in unconsciousness, making a loud thud noise. Dusk then stared at the body, not sure what to do with it right now. There was then a sound coming from the stairs outside.

"Trixie!" The filly that was with Trixie shouted up the stairs. "Great and Powerful Trixie! It's getting late, you still have an appointment with your tailor!" The filly then burst through the shop's door. "Trix-?"

But the only soul in the room was Dusk, who was sipping on some fresh brewed tea.

"Your master already left." Dusk lied. "Best to go after her."

"W-where did she go?" The scared filly asked.

"She didn't say." Dusk continued his lies,

"S-sorry sir." The filly explained. "But I must stay here until she returns."

"I see." Dusk thought of something quickly. "Did Pinkamena give you a tasty cupcake?"

"Yes." The filly answered. "It was quite tasty, she's such a kind mare."

"I bet she is." Dusk said. "What is your name?"

"S-scootaloo." The filly answered.

"Well Scootaloo." Dusk suggested. "How about you go downstairs and wait for your master. And tell Pinkamena that I said you could have another cupcake and a big tot of hard cider."

"Thank you sir!" Scootaloo said, almost bursting out of the room.

Now that he was alone, Dusk slowly opened the large trunk that he shoved Trixie's body into. It was twitching and very much alive. Grabbing his razor, Dusk ran the sharp blade across the mare's throat. Her body began convulsing violently, air was escaping in pathetic gasping sounds, and blood drained from her neck, he face becoming paler and paler. Soon enough her body went limp and all was truly silent. Dusk took a few steps back and looked at how much blood was on his hooves. There was no going back.

"That filly will eat my bakery out of stock." Pinkamena said, opening the door to the shop without knocking. "Dusk, how much longer before that Trixie comes back?"

"She's not coming back/" Dusk said coldly, wiping the blood off his hooves.

"Dusk you didn't!?" Pinkamena said, rushing over to the open trunk, seeing the bloodied corpse. "Have you gone nuts. Killing a pony that did you no harm?!"

"She recognized me from the old days. She tried to blackmail me." Dusk answered calmly. "Half my earning."

"Oh. Well that's different. Oh what a mess." Pinkamena then spied a shimmering purse in the folds of Trixie's rope. Pinkamena then grabbed the purse, shaking it a little to find it was full of bits. "Oh well, waste not."

By some unknown force, Dusk felt compelled to look out the window. And what he saw was beyond a shock.

"The judge!" Dusk said, then looked at Pinkamena. "Get out!"

Pinkamena almost bolted out of the room as Dusk quickly closing the trunk lid and finished wiping the lst of the blood off.

"Mr. Dusk Shine." Rarity's voice asked as it knocked on the door, entering the room slowly.

"Your grace." Dusk said, honeying up his words. "It is always an honor of a pony of your stature to grace my shop."

"How do you know me?" Rarity asked.

"Why who doesn't know of the great and benevolent Judge Rarity." Dusk said in a flattering tone. This attitude made him sick to his stomach but he had to endure it. "What can I do for you today ma'am? Stylish trimming of the hair? Soothing skin massage. Sit ma'am. Sit."

"You see sir a mare infatuated with love." Rarity explained sitting down. "Her ardent and eager slave. So fetch the pomade and pumice stone and lend me a more seductive tone a sprinkling perhaps of Prench perfume but first sir I think a trim of the mane."

"The best I ever gave." Dusk whistled with excitement.

"In a merry mood today Mr. Shine?" Rarity asked.

"Tis your delight ma'am catching fire from one pony to the next." Dusk explained.

"Tis true sir love can still inspire the blood to pound, the heart leap higher." Rarity exclaimed. "What more..."

"What more?" Dusk asked.

"Can pony kind require?" Rarity asked. "Than love sir."

"More than love ma'am." Dusk added.

"What sir?" Rarity asked

"Mares." Dusk said, luring Rarity into a false sense of security.

"Ah yes mares." Rarity agreed, leaning her head back.

"Pretty mares." Dusk said, preparing her blades. "Now then my friend. Now to your purpose. Patience. Enjoy it. Revenge can't be taken in haste."

"Make haste and in this work you'll be commended sir." Rarity offered.

Dusk asked, to keep Rarity distracted. "And who may it be said is your intended ma'am?"

"My ward." Rarity said. "Pretty as a rose bud."

"Pretty as her mother?" Dusk mumbled, hiding his malicious tone as he was about to begin.

"Huh? What was that?" Rarity asked.

"Nothing ma'am. Nothing." Dusk brought his razors close to a part of Rarity's mane that was close to her neck. "May we proceed?"

Pretty mares

Fascinating...

Sipping coffee,

Dancing...

Pretty mares

Are a wonder.

Instead of just killing Rarity, Dusk wanted to add to the revenge. So instead of simply running his razor across her pretty white neck. He decided to do her mane, so she become more and more lulled in a false sense of happiness and security. Dusk wanted the judge to be happy, just so he can enjoy watching it leave her eyes when she dies. So Dusk continued his distracting duet with Rarity.

Pretty mares!

Sitting in the window or

Standing on the stair

Something in them chills the air.

Pretty mares.

Silhouetted...

Stay within you,

Glancing...

Stay forever,

Breathing lightly...

Pretty mars,

Pretty mares!

Blowing out their candles or

Combing out their mane,

Combing out their mane then they leave

Even when they leave you and vainish they somehow can still can remain there with you

Even when they leave

They still are there.

They're there

Ah! Pretty mares,

At their mirrors,

In their gardens,

Letter-writing,

Flower-picking,

Weather-watching.

How they make a pony sing!

Proof of heaven as you're living,

Pretty mares! Pretty mares!

The time has come, the fun was nearing its end and Dusk brought his razor good and close to the lulled Rarity. She was at her most vulnerable. At the conclusion of this little duet, Dusk was going to get his revenge and slit this bitch's throat.

Yes pretty women,

Pretty mares,

Pretty mares

The Epiphany

One more moment. That's all that there needed to be; just one more moment. But Dusk's revenge was not meant to be. Just as he was about to slide the razor, end the Judge's life, the door burst open to the excited look on Applejack's face.

"Mr. Shine!" Applejack said in joy then turned to shock when she saw Rarity's face. "I did it, Fluttershy agreed to run off with me-"

"You!?" Rarity said getting up. "Well it is all too clear that Celestia herself must be looking out for me. I will make sure my Fluttershy never sees you, nor will any pony gaze upon her again." Then the frustrated Rarity turned to Dusk. "And you! It's clear what company you keep! Look after them well but you shall have none of mine."

Rarity then burst out of the room, leaving Applejack in a shock, but Dusk looked almost comatose from the experience.'

"Mr. Shine?" Applejack asked. "What are you going to-"

Get out!" Dusk mumbled, his rage building.

"But-" Applejack was cut off by the highly enraged Dusk.

"OUT!!!" Dusk shouted, Applejack running out the room as if her tail was on fire.

Not much longer after Applejack ran out, Pinkamena burst in.

"What happened?" She asked. "I see that Applejack run in, then the Judge trots out and now Applejack running out like her tail was on fire."

"I had her!" Dusk said, tossing a small chair against the wall. "Her throat was there beneath my hoof!"

"There there you'll get another-" Pinkamena tried to ease the angry Dusk but it wasn't going to work.

"No, I had her!" Dusk shouted again. "His throat was there and now he'll never come again!"

"Easy now, hush dear hush." Pinkamena kept trying to calm Dusk. "I keep telling you, Whats your rush?"

"When? Why did I wait?!" Dusk started to calm down but he was still quite angry. "You told me to wait! Now she'll never come again..." Dusk began to mumble to himself as way to try and think clearly. "There's a hole in the world like a great black pit. And it's filled with people who are filled with shit. And the vermin of the world inhabit it." Then Dusk reached his conclusion. "But not for long..."

They all deserve to die.

Tell you why, Pinkamena, tell you why.

Because in all of the whole pony race

Pinkamena, there are two kinds of ponies and only two

There's the one who stays put in his proper place

And the one with his hoof in the other one's face

Look at me, Pinkamena, look at you.

Dusk then lit up his horn, throwing Pinkamena hard against the wall. Pressing his hoof against her exposed stomach and lifting his razor close to her throat. It looked almost as though he was about to slit her throat.

We all deserve to die

Tell you why, Pinakmena, tell you why.

Because the lives of the wicked should be made brief

For the rest of us death will be a relief

We all deserve to die!

He then released Pinkamena, letting her drop to the floor, but otherwise unharmed.

And I'll never see Fluttershy

No I'll never hug my girl to me - finished!

I will have vengeance.

I will have salvation.

Not one pony, no, nor ten ponies.

Nor a hundred can assuage me.

I will have you!

Dusk then ignited his horn, created a sort of projection of Rarity. Dusk then proceeded to hack and hew at the ethereal judge.

And I will get her back even as she gloats.

In the meantime I'll practice on less honorable throats.

And my Rainbow Dash lies in ashes

And I'll never see my girl again.

Dusk started punching his hoof at the mirror, cracking it and badly cutting his hoof. The blood dripped from his cut and scratched hoof, small bits of glass sticking out of the bleeding hoof.

But the work waits!

I'm alive at last!

And I'm full of joy!

"That's all very well, but what we gonna do about her?" Pinkamena said, with a sigh, and sorta happy that Dusk was a little calmer. "Come on, let's go down stairs and have some cider."

Downstairs in Pinkamena's Bakery, Scootaloo was passed out with a large, empty bottle of hard cider in her sleeping hooves.

"Guess she had too much." Pinkamena chuckled a bit, taking the bottle and bringing the sleeping filly to the parlor, where she was set to rest on the couch. Tucking Scootaloo in, and making sure she wasn't going to hear anything, Pinkamena grabbed another bottle of hard cider, pouring a mug for Dusk. "So what are we gonna do about the body upstairs?"

"Later on when it's dark." Dusk said, gulping a shot of cider. "We'll take it to some secret place and bury her."

"Oh yeah. Of course we could do that." Pinkamena said, nodding, looking out the window. :I don't 'spose she's got any relatives gonna come pokin' 'round lookin' for her." Then as if a light bulb went off in her head. Pinkamena had an idea. "Seems a downright shame..."

"Shame?" Dusk asked, taking a lighter sip.

"Seems an awful waste..." Pinkamena said, walking towards Dusk. "Such a nice, plump frame. What's her name has...Had...Has...Nor it can't be traced...Bus'ness needs a lift, debts to be erased... Think of it as thrift, as a gift, if you get my drift..."

Seems an awful waste...

I mean, with the price of ingredients

What it is,

When you get it,

If you get it...

"Ah!" The gist of Pinkamena's suggestion finally struck him

"Good, you got it!" Pinkamena smiled in a mixture of sinister and happy.

Take, for instance, Mrs. Mooney and her pie shop!

Bus'ness never better using only pussycats and toast!

Now a cat's good for maybe six or seven at the most!

And I'm sure they can't compare as far as taste!

Pinkamena, what a charming notion!

Well, it does seem a waste...

Eminently practical, and yet appropriate as always!

Think about it...

Pinkamena, how I've lived 3ithout you all these years, I'll never know!

How delectable!

Also undetectable!

Lots of other ponies will soon be comin' for a shave, or a trim.

Won't they?

Think of all them.

Cupcakes!

How choice!

How rare!

Dusk then got up and went to the window, pointing outside. "For what's the sound of the world out there?"

"What, Mr. Shine? What, Mr. Shine?" Pinkamena almost skipped to the window. "What is that sound?"

"Those crunching noises pervading the air!" Dusk said in a chuckling tone.

"Yes, Mr. Shine! Yes, Mr. Shine!" Pinkamena got what Dusk was saying. "Yes, all around!"

It's pony devouring pony, my dear!

Then who are we to deny it in here?

"These are desperate times, Pinkamena." Dusk said sitting back down. "And desperate measures are called for!"

"Here we are, now!" Pinkamena giggled, putting a fresh blue cupcake on the table. "Hot out of the oven!"

"What is that?" Dusk, almost playfully, asked.

"It's priest." Pinkamena giggled in a tease. "Have a little priest."

"Is it good?" Dusk asked, playing along.

Oh, it's too good, at least!

Then again, they don't commit sins of the flesh,

So it's pretty fresh.

Awful lot of fat.

Only where it sat.

Haven't you got poet, or something like that?

No, y'see, the trouble with poet is

'Ow do you know it's deceased?

Try the priest!

"Lawyer's rather nice." Pinkamena said, looking out the window to see some well dressed ponies.

"If it's for a price." Dusk nodded, looking at the well dressed ponies.

"Order something else, though, to follow." Pinkamena explained. "Since no one should swallow it twice!"

"Anything that's lean?" Dusk asked.

Well, then, if you're Equestrian and loyal,

Are you still Beautiful and Fair?

During the day, one could call Canterlot many things; beautiful, busy, and loud. But at night, it became silent, dirty, and a scary place. But fear wasn't going to stop two ponies in love. Fluttershy was busy packing her saddle bags. Though she didn't know what to bring, she had to be quick. There was no telling when Rarity would be home.

"I had hoped that mare was lying." Rarity said, entering the room to the surprised Fluttershy.

"R-rarity?!" Fluttershy exclaimed. "I thought it was proper to knock before entering a lady's room.

"That is true." Rarity said coldly. "But I see no lady. It seems you don't appreciate all that I've done for you."

"All my life, you've kept me locked away like some plaything! A doll in your sick fantasy!" Fluttershy snapped. "I will get out of here! And you won't stop me."

"It seems that you are going through quite the rebellious stage." Rarity sighed, gesturing Spike to walk into the room. "Up until this point, I have spared the rod. And I do hope that next we meet, you will be more grateful."

After walking out of the room, almost as if it were a signal, Spike almost lunged at Fluttershy, knocking her to the ground.

"You're gonna love you're new home my dear." Spike mocked. "It'll have soft pillows on the walls and you'll learn proper manners to your ladyship."

Waiting out of the house, at the corner of the street, hidden in the shadows, Applejack waited for Fluttershy to emerge from the home. Her heart sank when she saw Rarity pull up with a coach. And the moment she saw a frantic and struggling Fluttershy being dragged out of the house.

"FLUTTERSHY!!" Applejack shouted, running at the coach, only to see it drive off at full speed. Her anger then was turned at Rarity. "Tell what you did with her or-"

"Or what!? Kill me!?" Rarity challenged. "Well here I stand!"

"Damn it!" Applejack turned and chased after the coach. "Fluttershy!!"

___________At Pinkamena's Bakery___________

Outside Pinkamena's bakery, little Scootaloo walked outside with her little drum and began to call for attention:

Mares and gentlecolts!

May I have your attention,please?

Are your nostrils aquiver and tingling as well as that delicate, lushious, ambrosial smell?

yes,they are,I can tell

Well, mares and gentlecolts

that aroma enriching the breeze,

is like something compared to its succulent source

as the gourmets among you will tell you,of course.

Mares and gentlecolts you can't imagine the rapture in store,

just inside of this door!

Scootaloo then gestured several groups of customers into the shop, sitting them down. The bakery was packed, it was almost standing room only.

There,you'll sample Pinkamena's cupcakes.savory and sweet pies,as you'll see.

You who eat treats Pinkamena's cupcakes conjure up the treat used to be!

The customers were more than eager to gobble down Pinkamena's treats. Cupcakes, cakes, muffins, pies, and other treats were flying off the shelves, on to the tables and into the ponies mouths. Scootaloo and Pinkamena had their work cut out for them. Pinkamena had to run back and forth to keep the food baking, and Scootaloo barely finished cleaning a table before a new group of ponies were seated at the table ordering more food and cider.

Nice to see you,dearie.how have you been keeping?Cor,me bones is weary!

Scootaloo! One for the gentlecolt.

Hear the birdies cheeping

Helps to keep it cheery

What's your pleasure,dearie?

No,we don't cut slices.

Cor,me eyes is bleary!

I could up me prices. I'm a little leery.

Business couldn't be better,though.

And while Pinkamena and Scootaloo were hard at work with the customers, Dusk was hard at work too. Customers who were either waiting for food or have already eaten went up to Dusk's shop upstairs for a shave, a trim, or other styling. Since the room was small, Dusk could only take on one customer at a time. As the customer leaned back in the seat. Dusk did his best to keep the customer happy and well shaved. Every so often, a much larger customer, most likely a well fed one, sat in the chair. But instead of giving the seated pony a shave. Dusk ran his razor hard against the pony's neck, the blood squirting out of the flinching and slightly flailing pony. The last stop was disposal of the body. With the push of a level with his hoof, the chair made several clicking noises, and a hatch opened under the chair, dropping the pony down a long drop to the bakery's basement, where a loud cracking noise was echoed in the large dark room. Releasing his hoof from the lever, the hatch was closed and Dusk cleaned the blood off his hooves.

Back down in the bakery, Pinkamena continued entertaining her guests as Scootaloo continued cleaning tables and serving customers:

What's my secret? Frankly, dear, forgive my Candor. Family Secret, all to do with herbs.

Things like being careful with your coriander.That's what makes the gravy grander.

The crust all velvety and wavy.

That Glaze,Those Crimps

And then the Thick,Succulent gravy.

Pinkamena then saw another large customer finish eating its third large treat before going up to get a shave. "Bless my eyes! Fresh Supplies!"

But there was one pony who wasn't in the shop; in fact, every attempt to enter was immediately rejected by both Pinkamena and Scootaloo. The beggar mare, who was quite infamous as a mad pony wandered back and forth down Fleet Street, begging for bits. But as she was being rejected, her pinkish red eyes stared in horror at the rising black smoke coming from the bakery's chimney.

Smoke!

Sign of Nightmare!

C'iy on fire!

Witch!

A witch!

Smell that Sir?

An evil smell!

Evry night at the Vespers Bell!

Smoke that comes from the mouth of Tartaras!

C'iy on fire!

Madness!

As she openly went on her mad raving and ranting, she was slowly approaching the bakery, only to be chased off by Scootaloo.

There!

Somepony!

Look up there!

Didn't I tell you?

Smell that air!

C'iy on fire!

Quick! Sir! Anypony!

Run and tell!

More and more like a witch's spell!

There it is!

The unholy smell!

Tell it to Spike, and guard as well!

Tell 'em!

Help!

Please!

C'iy on fire!

C'it on fire!

Madness!

While Scootaloo and Pinkamena served customers and kept mad beggar ponies away, Dusk was attending the other customers. He didn't kill them all, had to keep up appearances, and the more portly customers met the blade to the neck and went down the vent to become treats. But as he ran the razor over necks, Dusk couldn't help but think back to his wife and foal. Fifteen years away in that prison on a false charge, only to find that Rainbow Dash was gone, and Fluttershy was a prisoner to his hated enemy. When he heard that Applejack planned to free Fluttershy, Dusk was almost happy. He wasn't keen about letting Applejack run off with his daughter, but Dusk was curious about seeing his daughter after all these years. There was no way she would recognize him, but there was still hope:

And are you beautiful and yellow,

With that pink hair,

Like silk?

I'd want you beautiful and yellow

The way I've dreamed you were

Fluttershy

And if you're beautiful, what then,

With pink hair,

Like silk?

I think we shall not meet again

My little dove

My sweet

Fluttershy!

And if I never hear your voice,

My turtledove,

My dear

I still have reason to rejoice,

The way ahead is clear

Fluttershy!

And in the darkness

When I'm blind with what I can't forget

It's always morning in my mind

My little lamb

Fluttershy!

It was fortunate that there were currently nopony coming in for a shave or trimming as Dusk lamented about what was once was and what he's lost. A rare trickle of tears poured from Dusk's eyes. He hasn't seen his daughter since she was a little foal, would he even know her if he saw her?

You stay Fluttershy!

The way I've dreamed you are

Fluttershy!

And though I'll think of you, I guess

Until the day I die

I think I miss you less and less

As everyday goes by

Fluttershy!

And you'd be beautiful and yellow

And look too much like her

If only angels could prevail

We'd be the way we were

Fluttershy!

___________On the other side of Canterlot___________

Applejack chased after that coach but sadly lost sight of it soon after. Wandering about Canterlot in an almost maddening daze in her desperate search for Fluttershy, Applejack lamented her failure. Maybe if she was faster? Maybe if she got Fluttershy out of the house earlier was better?

"I feel you Fluttershy! Do they think that walls can hide you?" Applejack said, looking about the buildings in the dark streets. "I am in the dark without you! Missing your pink mane Fluttershy!"

Continuing her search through the town, Applejack heard a cry. It was a sweet cry, as if an angel or pure soul was crying their sorrow. It was the sound of Fluttershy! Galloping at full speed towards the fading sound. It wasn't long before the large stone walls, along with the massive sign Cranky Doodle Mental Institution. That judge, that bitch locked innocent Fluttershy in a madhouse. Applejack had to do something, but she would need help. She remembered every detail of the build before running off...back to Fleet Street.

___________Back at Dusk and Pinkamena's home___________

The last of the treats have been sold and the last customer has left. Pinkamena raked in more bits than she's made in years. This new recipe was a complete success. And thanks to Dusk's efforts, Pinkamena had enough bodies and whatever valuables those ponies may have had to have a little luxury and enough meat for more than a dozen more batches of cupcakes and treats. After the last of the tables were cleaned, Pinkamena couldn't help but give Scootaloo a hug for all her hard work.

"Oh Scootaloo, this has been perfect." Pinkamena praised the filly. "With all this hard work, you'll be living it large and in charge." Pinkamena then handed Scootaloo several bits. "And here's your pay for tonight's hard work."

"R-really?!" Scootaloo never knew such kindness. "I-is it alright if I stay here? Seeing as how Trixie hasn't come back for me."

"Aww, you can stay as long as you want. And if you'll stay, you'll work and earn a pay." Pinkamena smiled, then saw Dusk enter the shop. Pinkamena couldn't help but jump at Dusk, giving him a big hug. "Ooh, Dusk! I'm so happy! I could eat you up, I really could! You know what I'd like to do, Mr. Todd? If the business stays as good? Where I'd really like to go? In a year or so? Don't you want to know?"

"Of course." Dusk didn't really care, but if he didn't answer, Pinkamena would never shut up.

"Do you really want to know?" Pinkamena had to be sure, though she was too happy to notice that Dusk could care less.

"Yes. I do." Dusk said, in a monotone tone.

"By the sea, Dusk, that's the life I'll covet, by the sea, Dusk, ooh, I know you'd love it!" Pinkamena explained to Dusk, almost spinning around the room. Even Scootaloo was getting excited at her new boss's excitement. "All of us, Dusk, we could be together. In a house that we'd almost own. Down by the sea!"

"Anything you say." Dusk tried to tone the annoying pink mare out as he tried to think of a way to lure the judge back.

"Think how snug it'll be underneath our flannel. When it's just you and me and the Ponyville Channel!" Pinkamena smiled in a kind, yet kinda creepy way. "In our cozy retreat kept all neat and tidy. We'll have chums over ev'ry Friday! By the sea! Don'tcha love the weather? By the sea! We'll grow old together! By the seaside. By the beautiful sea!"

"Seem like a lot to dream of Ms. Pinkie." Scootaloo nodded, still excited over this plan of Pinkamena's.

"But then we can have a seaside wedding." Pinkamena stared at Dusk, though he wasn't aware of her intentions. "Me eyelids'll flutter, I'll turn into butter, The moment I mutter I do-hoo!"

Just as Pinkamena finished her loud idea, the shop door almost burst open. It was Applejack, and she looked exhausted.

"Please help me Mr. Shine!" Applejack begged. "I found her! They have her locked in a madhouse!"

"Pinkamena." Dusk said, his expression was emotionless, but inside he was quite livid. His own daughter thrown in an asylum. He'd do something about that. "Take Scootaloo to the back room, Applejack and I have much to discuss."

Pinkamena listened and took Scootaloo with her in the backroom. Dusk had Applejack explain everything. Applejack described how the walls couldn't be scaled, and Fluttershy's window was bared up so she couldn't escape through there.

"There is a way in." Dusk almost smiled.

"But how?!" Applejack asked, finally catching her breath.

"Where do you think the wig makers in Canterlot get their hair?" Dusk asked, then looked at the doorway to the parlor. "Scootaloo? Come here."

"Y-yes sir." Scootaloo said, reporting to Dusk, who had a letter and quill floating in the air being written out. "What do you need?"

"Do you know where Cranky Doodle Asylum is?" Dusk asked.

"Yes sir! It's near the work house I came from, so I know the way." Scootaloo nodded.

"Good." Dusk said, handing the letter to the filly. "Now I want you to take this to the asylum, and give that to a donkey named Cranky Doodle. Only to him! Understand?"

"Yes sir!" Scootaloo said, galloping out the door with he letter in her teeth.

"What was that?" Applejack asked.

"We'll send you to the asylum as a wig maker's apprentice." Dusk explained his plan, handing Applejack a hoof gun. "Then when you find Fluttershy, you rescue her with this and bring her here."

"But what about the judge?" Applejack asked, nervous about this plan. "Won't she come here?"

"If she does." Dusk said. "I'll handle her so you and Fluttershy can make your escapes."

"Thank you sir." Applejack almost cried with joy over the plan. "If it weren't for your kindness, I would never be able to do this. I owe you my life for all this."

"There is no debt between friends." Dusk said, in a half lie. "But promise me that you'll take care of her."

"I will!" Applejack promised. "For the rest of my life, I'll always love and care for Fluttershy!"

"Good." Dusk said, he could almost cry at the build of emotion, but he held it all back. "You're free to stay here until Scootaloo returns. Then rescue Fluttershy."

___________Several Hours Later___________

After several hours out, Scootaloo finally returned to the bakery. Pinkamena was busy reading a saucy romance book in the parlor.

"I'm back Pinkie." Scootaloo smiled, as if she returned to her own mother.

"Where did you go?" Pinkamena asked, in a half worried, half relieved tone. "You've been out for hours."

"I was running an errand for Mr. Shine." Scootaloo explained. "And then I paid a visit to the work house. I'm grateful for you and Mr. Shine to look after me like you all are. If not, I'd be back in the work house, and they do such awful things there."

"It's okay." Pinkamena put her book down to hug Scootaloo in a motherly fashion. "You can live here for as long as you want."

"I can't thank you enough for everything you've done for me." Scootaloo almost cuddled up to Pinkamena. And as Scootaloo cuddled up to Pinkamena, she made a sort of promise:

Nothing's gonna harm you, not while I'm around.

Nothing's gonna harm you, no sir, not while I'm around.

Demons are prowling everywhere, nowadays,

I'll send 'em howling,

I don't care, I got ways.

No one's gonna hurt you,

No one's gonna dare.

Others can desert you,

Not to worry, whistle, I'll be there.

Demons'll charm you with a smile, for a while,

But in time...

Nothing can harm you

Not while I'm around...

"That's sweet." Pinkamena nuzzled up to the little filly. "Maybe I can leave the bakery to you one day, when you're old enough."

Not to worry, not to worry

I may not be smart, but I'm not dumb.

I can do it. Put me to it. Show me somethin - I can overcome.

Not to worry, Pinkie.

Nothin's gonna harm you. Not while I'm around.

Nothing's gonna harm you, darling

Not while I'm around.

Pinkamena almost cried. It was like Scootaloo was her own daughter. "Shh Shh. Just stay close to me and get some sleep. You've had such a hard day's work. When you wake, I'll show you how to run the bakery."

Rescue and Revenge!

The dawn of Celestia's Sun rose up above the clouds. The sky was a mixture of fading red and an incoming blue and white. The asylum was just in sight of Applejack, who was dressed in a more 'respectable' manner. To add to the lie of her being a wig maker's apprentice. But she was focused, she was to rescue Fluttershy, whatever the risk.

___________Back at Pinkamena's Bakery___________

"Now that's just silly Scootaloo." Pinkamena tried to change the topic.

"No Pinkie, I'm sure of it." Scootaloo pointing to the finely made silk purse. "I'm sure that's Trixie's purse!"

"No no dear." Pinkamena said, now regretting she took that off Trixie's body. "It's a gift Dusk got me for my birthday."

"No that proves he's a dangerous pony." Scootaloo grabbed Pinkamena's hoof. "Come on Pinkie, we have to get Spike."

"Now now dear." Pinkamena thought a lie and thought it up quick. "I don't see the need to rush. Dusk doesn't seem to bring any harmt o us. Hey! how about I teach you how to make my special cupcakes?"

"R-really?" Scootaloo kinda sniffled.

Opening a large metal door that made a loud clank when it opened, Pinkamena lead Scootaloo down to the lower basement. At the bottom of the stairs was another large metal door.

"This door often gets stuck dear." Pinkamena said. "Could you help me open it?"

"Sure." Scootaloo said, helping Pinkamena open the large door. "Awh, what's that smell?"

"Oh that." Pinkamena said. "You see this house is old and this basement connects to the old sewer. So what you're smelling are probably some poor rats that went up to Celestia. Let me show you how to work the grinder."

"Grinder?" Scootaloo asked.

"Yes." Pinkamena explained, showing this massive meat grinder to Scootaloo. "Before me, this used to be a shop that sold harder foods, so they had this grinder installed. Which is good for us, we can grind the ingredients together, and they get mixed at the same time. It's a much easier way to make my special cupcakes."

Throwing several bags of flour, sugar, and sprinkles into the large grinder, Pinkamena showed Scootaloo the procedure of how to grind the ingredients and out would come colored paste. This paste was then placed in several cupcake trays and then brought to the massive oven. If was easily large enough to fit more than one pony in its inferno.

"So just keep grinding up the ingredients, and then put them on the tray and in the oven." Pinkamena said kindly. "Now keep at it, and I'll be right back."

"Pinkie?" Scootaloo asked. "Could I um...have a cupcake while I work?"

"As many as you want." Pinkamena could almost cry but it had to be done. Just as she closed the door, she made sure to lock it good and tight.

Upon reaching the tops of the stairs, and in the parlor, she met a frightful sight. Dusk was home and chatting with him in the room was Spike.

"Spike!?" Pinkamena said in surprise. "What are...you doing here?"

"Ah Ms. Pinkamena." Spike said, getting up from his seat. "It seems there have been some complaints."

"Complaints?" Pinkamena asked.

"Its your chimney." Spike explained. "It seems at night, there is a foul smell and during the day, it's even worse. And seeing as how public affairs are my business, I have no choice but to inspect your bake house."

"Why of course you can Spike." Dusk said, rising from his seat. "But first, how about a nice trim of the scales. I believe I dragon of you...stature would need to look his best, even while working."

"As much as I want to sir." Spike politely declined. "I must attend to my duties first."

"Now sir." Dusk said with flattery. "I promise it won't take long, I can make irresistible to the ladies."

Spike's thought went straight to Rarity. "Well you are the expert. I shall take your advice and go with you."

Spike went up to the barber shop upstairs with Dusk. At the same time, Scootaloo was enjoying a delicious cupcake. But then she heard a crunching noise. Moving the cupcake away, Scootaloo saw what looked like half an eye, a pony's eye ball was in the cupcake. Tossing it to the ground in a fright, Scootaloo was terrified. The next thing she heard was a clank, a hatch opening, a drop, and a loud wet thud. On the ground was Spike's dead and bleeding body.

"AAAAHHH!!!" Scootaloo shouted, running to the door but finding it locked. "Let me out!! Pinkie! Help me! Let me out!"

___________At Cranky Doodle Asylum___________

A balding donkey jack, with a pure white coat escorted Applejack down the well lit hallway.

"It's always a pleasure to have a wig maker take an interest in my children." Cranky said. "I keep them all separated by their manes. It was pink you needed?"

"Y-yes." Applejack said in a nervous tone, but Cranky was used to visitors being a tad nervous. "I need a silk-like pink mane. You do have what I'm looking for right?"

"Silk-like?" Cranky smiled. "Why just yesterday, I had a new member of my family come. She was a yellow pegasus, looked like she was from some rich home. Her mane was pink and well maintained. So you're in luck."

Opening the door labeled Pink, Cranky escorted Applejack into a room filled with ponies of all ages, all with pink manes. Some off pink, some pale pink, but Applejack soon saw Fluttershy.

"There." Applejack pointed at Fluttershy. "That's the shade and texture I need."

"Oh and that's the mare I was talking about." Cranky said, taking out a rusty pair of scissors. "Now, where should I start?"

Immediately, Applejack took out the hoof gun Dusk gave her earlier. "One sound out of you and it'll be your last." Fluttershy immediately ran to Applejack's side. "Now Mr. Doodle, I'll leave you to the mercy of your 'children'."

As Applejack and Fluttershy made their way out the room, the crazed ponies all attacked Cranky Doodle all at once like wild animals. Applejack and Fluttershy galloped as fast as their hooves could carry. It was only a matter of time before Rarity would learn of this. But unbeknownst to them, Dusk has already set everything in motion. The revenge was drawing closer.

___________Back at Pinkamena's Bakery__________

Pinkamena and Dusk were hurrying down the stairs to the basement. Dusk already had a razor floating in the air.

"And you're sure of it?" Dusk asked.

"Sadly." Pinkamena said. "He was ready to get Spike and now after this...it pains me, but he has to go. Just...just make it painless. Scootaloo was such a good filly. Almost like a daughter."

Dusk and Pinkamena entered the basement to find Scootaloo not there.

"Scootaloo." Pinkamena called in a sweet tone. "Where are you now?"

"Scootaloo?!" Dusk called in a more assertive tone.

"Nothings gonna harm you." Pinkamena tried coaxing Scootaloo out of hiding. "Not while I'm around."

"Scootaloo!" Dusk called again, then heard a noise coming from upstairs. "You keep looking, I think a pony is here for a shave."

Entering the barber shop, Applejack and Fluttershy, now disguised as a stallion in dirty rags, they looked for Dusk but found nopony.

"Okay stay here." Applejack said. "I'll get us a coach and we'll be in Ponyville by tomorrow."

"And then what?" Fluttershy asked. "Rarity will chase us to the end of Equestria is she has to."

"Her reach is long here." Applejack reassured her love. "But she can't get to us when we're miles and miles away from here. Trust me. I'll be back as soon as I can."

With Applejack gone, Fluttershy became very nervous, scared even. Looking around the room, she felt an odd feeling. As if she's been there before. Then something caught her eye. A small framed photo on the counter. It showed a couple. A young purple mare, who was smiling and holding a razor. While the other was a blue mare with a rainbow mane, holding a little foal in her hooves. Fluttershy couldn't explain why, but she could've sworn she's met these ponies before. Suddenly, there was a sound coming up the stairs. Fearing it may be the judge, Fluttershy found herself in the nearby trunk. Safely inside, Fluttershy saw through the crack in the trunk, what was occurring.

Coming into Dusk's Shop, was the crazed beggar mare. "Spike? Spike? I know I saw you enter here! Where are you Spike?!"

Turning around, the mare saw the cold stare of Dusk.

"You again?!" Dusk shouted. "Out with you mad mare!"

"You're not Spike." The mare said, looking at Dusk closely. "Don't I know you from somewhere?"

"Mr. Shine!?" A familiar mare's voice called up from the bakery.

Not having enough time, Dusk quickly struck at the beggar mare with his razor, deeply cutting her neck. At the same time, Dusk used his magic to push the lever, causing the hatch the dying mare was standing on, sending her down to the basement where Pinkamena was still searching for Scootaloo.

"Where is she? Where is the mare?!" Rarity demanded, barging through the door. She had just recently received Dusk's letter, informing her that Applejack had broken Fluttershy out of the asylum and was planning to hide her with Dusk. But Dusk, being an 'upstanding citizen', felt that Rarity had to be made aware of this.

"Below, your Honor. With my neighbor, Pinkamena. Thank heavens that mare did not molest her." Dusk lied, he was not going to let this opportunity slip him again. "Thank heavens too, she has seen the error of her ways."

"She has?" Rarity asked.

"Oh yes, sir." Dusk lied, not having seen Fluttershy yet, assuming Applejack failed. "She speaks only of you, longing for forgiveness."

"And she shall have it." Rarity smiled with joy, all her plans have succeeded now, or so she would think.

"How about a quick styling of the mane ma'am." Dusk offered politely. "Can't go down to a blushing bride with that mane, if you'll pardon me ma'am."

"Your right." Rarity nodded, sitting in the chair. "Quickly then, a splash of Prench perfume! Please be quick."

"Of course." Dusk smiled. "Pretty mares. Are a wonder . . ."

"You're in a merry mood again today, Mr. Shine." Rarity noted.

"It's only how happy an occasion this is ma'am." Dusk smiled gently.

"How seldom it is one meets a fellow spirit!" Rarity said, leaning back.

"With fellow tastes...in mares, at least." Dusk mumbled.

"What? What's that?" Rarity asked, a tad unnerved.

"The years no doubt have changed me, ma'am." Dusk confessed. "But then, I suppose, the face of a barber, the face of a prisoner in the

dock is not particularly memorable."

It was then that Rarity remember that look in Dusk's eye, the same eyes she once judged years ago. "Twilight...Sparkle!"

"TWILIGHT SPARKLE!" Twilight screamed, stabbing her blades into Rarity's neck.

Over and over she stabbed the dying judge cold, plunging that blade a little deeper every time. Her blood splattered the window, walls, chair, Twilight's coat and face. And to give good measure, Twilight than ran the blade over Rarity's neck so hard and deep, it was practically a decapitation. The final step was the lever, sending the once proud judge to the dark stone abyss. After the deed was done, Dusk had fulfilled Twilight's revenge. She was finally at peace, looking at her bloodied razor, Twilight smiled, almost in a tearful manner.

Rest now, my friend,

Rest now forever.

Sleep now the untroubled

Sleep of the angels...

My razor!

It was by the worst of luck that Fluttershy made a faint 'eep' noise. Drawing Twilight's attention to the trunk. Having no patience left in her, Twilight used her magic to lift the trunk open and bring out the terrified Fluttershy.

"You! What are you doing here? Speak!" Twilight demanded.

"Oh, dear. Er excuse me, sir." Fluttershy answered in her best stallion voice, still terrified; she thought she was going to die. I saw the barber's sign. So thinking to ask for a shave, I-"

"When? When did you come in?" Twilight demanded to know.

"Oh, sir, I beg of you." Fluttershy pleaded. "Whatever I have seen, no pony shall ever know. I swear it. Oh, sir, please, sir..."

"A shave, eh?" Twilight then gave a murderous grin. "At your service."

"But, sir..." Fluttershy tried to beg for her life, but Twilight set her to the chair.

"Whatever you may have seen, your cheeks are still as much in need of the razor as before." Twilight said, her razor brought to Fluttershy's neck.

Just then, a loud scream echoed up the closed vent and Twilight knew that was Pinkamena's scream. Quickly making her choice, Twilight pulled Fluttershy close and whispered one thing.

"Forget my face." Twilight then let go of Fluttershy and ran out of the shop as fast as she could.

"Die! Die! Celestia in heaven die!" Pinkamena shouted at the body of Rarity, barely alive and clinging to the panicking mare. But the judge soon bled out. It was the other body that Pinkamena saw that made her almost jump out of her skin. "You! Can it be? How all the demons of Tartaras come to torment me! Quick! To the oven."

"Why did you scream?" Twilight burst in the room, seeing Pinkamena dragging the beggar mare to the oven. "Does the JUDGE still live?"

"She was clutching, holding on to my leg, but now she's finished." Pinkamena said.

"Leave them to me. Open the doors." Twilight ordered.

"No!" Pinkamena protested. "Don't touch her!"

"What is the matter with you? It's only some meddling old beggar-" Then Twilight got a good look at the beggar's face. "Oh no, Oh God . . . 'Don't I know you?' she said." It was the dead face of Rainbow Dash, Twilight's love, killed by Twilight's hoof. Horror and regret painted Twilight's face as she turned to Pinkamena. "You knew she lived. From the first moment that I walked into your shop you knew my Rainbow Dash lived!"

"I was only thinking of you!" Pinkamena said.

"You lied to me..." Twilight said in sorrow.

No, no, not lied at all.

No, I never lied.

Rainbow...

Said she took the poison she did

Never said that she died

I've come home again...

Poor thing,

She lived

But it left her weak in the head,

All she did for months was just lie there in bed

Rainbow...

Should've been in hospital,

Wound up in an asylum instead,

Poor thing!

Oh, my Celestia...

Better you should think she was dead.

Yes, I lied 'cos I love you!

Rainbow!!!

I'd be twice the wife she was!

I love you!

"What have I done?!" Twilight shouted, looking at the blood on her hooves.

"Could that thing have cared for you. Like me?" Pinkamena said.

"PINKAMENA!!" Twilight shouted, her mood appeared happier. "You're a bloody wonder! Eminently practical and yet appropriate as always. As you've said repeatedly, There's little point in dwelling on the past."

"Do you mean it?" Pinkamena said, coming closer to Twilight. "Everything I did I swear I thought was only for the best. Believe me!"

The history of the world, my pet." Twilight said, taking a loving hold of Pinkamena. "Is learn forgiveness and try to forget."

"By the sea, Twilight. We'll be comfy-cozy." Pinkamena said, hugging Twilight back. "By the sea, Twilight. Where there's no one nosy ..."

"And life is for the alive, my dear." Twilight began spinning with Pinkamena, closer to the open over door. "So let's keep living it! Just keep living it! Really living it!"

At that point, Twilight threw Pinkamena into the open over. The flames quickly ate at her mane and tail, her screams echoed in agony throughout the room. Before she could make an escape. Twilight used her magic to slam the door closed. Through the small hatch, the last thing Pinkamena saw, were Twilight's cold, murderous eyes. As the flames fully consumed her.

Going to her wife's limp body. Twilight held Rainbow Dash close to her. Tears mixed with blood on Rainbow's face and the floor.

There was a barber and her wife,

And she was beautiful.

A foolish barber and her wife,

She was her reason and her life.

And she was beautiful.

And she was virtuous.

Unknown to Twilight, Scootaloo, who was hidden in the corner, crept up on the distracted Twilight, holding the razor that Twilight tossed aside in her hoof. Closer and closer Scootaloo got to the murderous barber. Even if Twilight knew Scootaloo was there, she wouldn't care. She had nothing else to live for.

"And she was..." Twilight said, feeling the cold sharpness of the razor on her neck. "Naive."

Scootaloo let loose the razor, deeply cutting Twilight's neck, the last thing Twilight saw as all went black around her was her wife. And even in such agony, such torment, such pain, Twilight got to see her wife again.

The Demon-Mare of Fleet Street: The ReBoot

by White Fang

Chapters

My Hoof is Complete Again!

The Judge Arrives

The Epiphany

Are you still Beautiful and Fair?

Rescue and Revenge!

Mature Rated Fiction

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