I took the time I had alone to assess the damage done to Applejack. Face was swollen, a number of cuts and scratches covered her face, a deep cut over her right brow, topped off with dirt, grime, and whatever else was on my shoe. Thankfully (for me) I hadn't broken her nose. I didn't do a hands-on examination, but no doubt there'll be soreness in her stomach, and especially her chest.

Diagnosis says: other than the few weeks I was gonna give her to adjust to her environment, like I did the other two, there was no reason, externally anyway, why she wouldn't be able to do her job. The swelling will go down, bruises will go away, any cuts, or scars she may have gotten will fade, and if I'm lucky, no one will notice the slightly purple spots on her "goods". She can probably clean herself up at The Griffon, I made sure to have first aid's stashed about. Actually come to think of it, Flim and Flam might need that too.

Man, they got their asses kicked! I still wouldn't want to fight the two of 'em don't get me wrong, but Applejack just whooped them! If it wasn't for the fact that we work together, I honestly would've wanted to give her a high-five.

Speaking of those two, thankfully they were able to wake up before Applejack did. I hit her hard and all, but I had a pretty good feeling that wouldn't put her down for too long a time. I could see it in their eyes too, they each had this look of defeat as they stumbled out into the parking lot. Flam's nose was puffy and red, with clear signs of bruising, and I noticed some dried blood around the nose and on his hands. Flim didn't have any external wounds, but he was limping like a war vet from that nut shot, and his nice suit was torn up on the back from getting kicked through my door.

Credit where credit is due, Applejack is pretty bad-ass. Come to think of it, I actually think her and Dash would've been good pal's. Actually in hindsight, Sparkle and Rarity might have made decent acquaintances I think... Oh well.

We hauled Applejack into the back of Flim and Flam's car, and on the whole way back to the Griffon, I could see, and feel their pain. Not the 'hurt' kind of pain, the 'Ow, my pride' kind of pain. Their ego's were bruised hard, I couldn't resist taking at least one little jab at them.

"Aw don't let this one incident you down boys! You're still the baddest wittle henchmen in the whole wide world!" All I heard was Flim growl out:

"Shut. Up." After a small chuckle I did.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So yeah, this is home now! Cause as I'm sure you remember, per our agreement, if I beat you in a fight; which I did, you come work for me. Which I did. Beat you, I mean." My back was turned to her, but I could feel her eyes glaring through my skin.

"It's a humble little establishment, but in time I hope to expand it, using the money I- you, earn here working. I'll still pay you back a... 'fair' sum of the profits, it's only right. You are my employee after all, because, well you did lose the fight. Did I mention I won?" I turned around as I asked that, just so I could see her reaction.

"Why yes, Gilda, you've reminded me near on seven damn times now." And I loved doing it each time.

We were standing inside, I on the other side of my bomb-ass podium, and she by the door. Flim and Flam standing guard by the door, both understandably still looking pissed. Jack was trying to look all hard, and stand up straight, but she had just the faintest hunch, and her left hand was slowly rubbing her stomach. Cute.

"Down that way-" I gestured to the hallway behind me with my thumb. "-is where you'll be staying. Each girl has their own room, so you don't have to worry about privacy. Over yonder to your right is little little check in/out station, which leads to my bitching office."

A recent addition to the Griffon, said area comprised of a door leading to behind a counter, with bars and glass covering the top, with only one lone slot for my arms to reach through from the comfort of my chair. I take care of all transactions in the Griffon (like I'm going to trust an accountant...) behind that; cash, credit, and check. To the left of the chair was one more door, labeled "Gilda's Nest". I named it myself.

"I don't have to tell you that's off limits. To your left you'll see our lounging area, that's where clients chill for a while before selecting a girl, have a dinner in the evening or breakfast in the morning if they spent the night."

It always feels cool to show off The Griffon like this, gives me a sense of pride ya know?

Applejack turned her head to view the area in discussion, I noticed her eyes begin to scan the room. "There's a plenty of booths, tables high, low and the like. It's a designated smoking area, so hope you don't have asthma or something." I saw her roll her eyes as she continued to observe her new home.

"In the back there I got a fully stocked, fully equipped kitchen, not like Gordon Ramsay status obviously, but it's legit, no bagged, processed crap. Probably my favorite part though is our bar in the back right corner." At that I actually saw her eyelids raise slightly at the mention of said bar. She actually took a step in it's direction to get a look at it. Figures.

Then out of nowhere the weirdest thing happened, like seriously, it was weird. When, from my view it looked like anyway, her eyes came to the bar, she like, stopped; froze almost. I don't know why, but she was just standing there almost perfectly still, I was about to go shove her, when I saw... it. This odd looking, what would you call it? Gleam? Shine? Yeah let's go with that, this 'shine', I swear to God, I saw this- this weird colored 'shine' flashed across her eyes for like, a split second.

I swear man I thought I was hallucinating, I rubbed my eyes with my fists, and when I was done, there Applejack was, still just standing there. Flim and Flam were looking at each other with 'what the hell?...' faces, but I didn't so much as look at them. It was weird... but for some reason it looked kind of... familiar. I came out from behind the podium, and walked next to Applejack, nudging her lightly with the side of my arm.

"Nice lookin' place right?" Figured it best to play it off like I didn't see anything, she probably didn't notice it happen anyway. Then just like that she was back to normal, looking pissed, and giving me gruff responses.

"Tch, nothin too great." Cue eye roll from me... "Who are those two?" I turned my gaze over to Applejack.

"Hmm?"

"The two ladies in there."

I looked into the lounge. Sparkle and Rarity were the only ones in there today. Like always. Other girls came and went from time to time usually, but normally they just stay in their rooms, these two however almost always just stayed in here. I mean I get it, there's TV's and a bar, but they never talked to each other, so I don't get it. Granted it's a Sunday, and I'm not open on that day, but they've been in here since morning, it's a little weird. Applejack want's to meet her coworkers huh? Might as well informally introduce them.

"Well, the one with her nose in the book, sitting next to the giant stacks of books is Twilight Sparkle. Odd name, and a really bitter attitude, so she's not the most approachable person in the world, but she makes me a nice chunk of change. Fun fact:.. she's number one." I heard her growl lowly at that little reminder I threw at her.

"Number one huh?... You rope her into this like ya did me?"

"Tch, no. Getting her in her wasn't nearly as stressful. It was just a simple matter of the right kind of threats, and the perfect blackmail." I purposely didn't go into details, I'd let her draw her own conclusions, it's more intimidating that way. I saw her gaze linger to the bar once again.

"Who's the barkeep?"

"That little porcelain beauty, is named Rarity."

"Just Rarity?" She questioned.

"Yeah, she never gave me a last name. I can only assume that 'Rarity' is a fake name, or that is in fact her name, and she just decided not to give me a last name for some most likely dumb reason."

"Rarity..."

"Yup. That, by the way is number two... Well introductions are more or less done, so I'm gonna head to the back and check on your room, and set up some final touches. Go inside and make yourself at home." I turned my attention to my lackeys. "Flim, Flam, watch the door." They nodded, and without another word, I headed off to Applejack's room, down the hall.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------Applejack-------------------------------------------------------------

'Make myself at home'... what a bitch.

This sure is a pickle I'm in in'nt? A woman, who's clearly bat-shit nuts, has me trapped in this whore-house, and I also got these two clowns to my immediate left, eye ballin' me like Goddamn vultures. If I wasn't so banged up, I could easily get passed these two. Damn that Gilda, I should never've turned my back on her... that may be another mistake I won't get the chance to rectify.

I could still try rushing the two of them like in Gilda's office. Give myself just enough time to stun them, then make a break for the door. I glance on over to the two watchdogs Gilda has eyein' me, and instantly I already know that wouldn't work. They're on edge, visibly tense, I can see it in their eyes too, layin' and waitin', begging me to try somethin', just so they have an excuse to brain me. Doesn't help much that I'm in slightly more damaged condition then they are, I'd just get beaten down.

Damn that Gilda... When I get my hands on that scrawny bitch, I'm makin' her pay dearly for this.

*sigh* Well I don't care much for these two breathin' down my neck as they are, figure I might as well attempt to: 'make myself at home'. I head into this 'lounge' area she seemed so proud of; I'd be lying if I said it wasn't inviting. Tables and chairs placed about, comfortable lookin' booths, dim lighting, a big ol' HD television at the front of the bar.

The bar itself though; that's true beauty in here. Corner to corner, wall to wall, filled to the brim with refreshing lookin' poisons. At the end of the bar, to it's left, there's a little walkway for people to get in and out, that same walkway leads to the kitchen; that's where the bar starts. It ends just barely touching the other wall.

Well at least I won't be totally miserable.

I saunter on over to the nearest table and lean on it, resting my forearms on the surface. Dammit I'm hurtin' right now... My head feels like it ways a few extra pounds, face is sore, and I'm wobbilin' around like a damn penguin, hope I ain't scarred up too bad.

Looking up 'n around, I became aware of something that could become a prominent problem in the future.

There are surveillance cameras everywhere. When I was being dragged in here from the car, I remember lookin' around seeing one at the front of the door, one each at least attached to a corner of the building, probably has more in the back. When we actually entered the place there was one on the on the entrance to the hallway, and one over the door. When you enter the building, one of the first thing you can see is a long hallway with doors left and right, apparently where I'll be staying now... there was one at the very end of the hallway.

The 'lounge' was no different, there was one in each corner of the room, probably a few in the kitchen. It also doesn't help none that I noticed outside, it looked liked they put up a freshly built fence. I wondered why at first, then I recollected how I noticed what looked like, a security booth. I wouldn't put it past this psycho to have motion sensors, guard dogs, and landmines at this point. So on top of being completely crazy, Gilda Hof is also insanely paranoid.

Terrific. I guess I can forget about breaking outta this dump for now.

I slumped my head over my arms, taking in the lovely sights of the table I'm perched against, in a mixture of frustration, and defeat. A chill slowly slithered in my gut at the realization that I was stuck here for a while. I was zoning in 'n out of consciousness during the ride over here, but I kinda got a clear picture of the land; it's all desert. The only civilization, that I know of, is back the way we came, but that's a hell of a walk.

I've hoofed it on the road for a while now, but I don't doubt she has this highway memorized. I also have little doubt that she's above tryin' to after me, and those other two, that Flim and Flam, God only knows what they'd wanna do to me if they had a chance.

I'll just have to be patient, bide my time and form some kinda plan, if all goes good I'll be wringing Hof's neck in no time. It ain't gonna be easy, not exactly comfortable either, but I can't risk screwin' up my shot at bustin' outta here and kickin' Hof right in 'er-

"Damn, she sure did a number on you Tex."

I snapped my head up at the sudden voice, coming face-to-face with, I believe to be, Twilight Sparkle. She was sportin' a dark-purple tank top, that I believe was for some kinda band or somethin', what the hell's a 'Zltoid'?..., finished off with with a pair of black jeans, and... what are those, converse? Hell I don't know- shoes, she was wearing shoes.

"I'm sorry, what?"

"I said, 'she sure did a number on you'. Kinda surprised honestly, I didn't peg Gilda to be a fighter." I rolled my eyes at bein' reminded of my recent loss.

"'Fighter'? That Gilda's a coward, I had her beaten down to the ground, and was 'bout to head on out, but then next thing I know, she's tryin' to spear me from behind... anyway, she won't be so lucky next time I get my hands on her." 'Twilight' shrugged at the promise.

"Good luck with that, she's got this place wired like a government office."

"I noticed... think she's gonna be gettin' some kinda security checkpoint or sumthin' soon too."

"That would explain the booth they're building out there. Surprised she hasn't invested in dogs yet." I didn't have much else to add to the conversation, so I took my eyes off 'er.

Thinking about it for a sec, I figured I should introduce myself, and at least try 'n be nice. Not exactly lookin' to make any friends, living off the land doesn't give ya much social time, not to mention small talkin' ain't exactly my strong suit. Although havin' someone help me, or at least havin' no one hatin' me, would make my stay here considerably easier. With this small hope in mind, I returned my look to 'Twilight'.

"Well this ain't exactly the best situation to do this, but seein' as how we'll be bein'... co-workers, might as well. Name's Applejack." I offered her my hand to shake.

She just eyed at my hand, crossed her arms, then stared at me.

"Name's Twilight." I took my hand back, seeing how she obviously wasn't gonna return my attempt at chivalry.

"So Twilight, what's your story; how'd you end up here? I got mah ass beat, cause I turned my back for a second." She let out a single nod.

"Yeah, that sucks."

"..."

"..."

"So... how'd you get you get here?"

"That's none of your business." I was a little put off by the sudden coldness of her tone, but considerin' 'blackmail', and 'threats' were involved, I can kinda get why she might not want to talk about it.

"Oh... well alright then, 's your privacy after all." Quickly looking for a subject changer, I remembered the bar, and it's watcher, realizing I forgot all about her.

"So the bartender, that's 'Rarity right?" Another nod.

"Correct. She's the second member of Gilda's 'elite team' , after me."

"How long both ya'll been here?" Hoped she'd at least answer this one. She raised her head up in thought.

"Let me see... it's April right?" That wasn't a good sign...

"Yeah, I believe so."

"Then, five months more or less. Rarity's been here for two." Damn... that's got to've been rough on both of them.

"Damn, I'm sorry 'bout that." I swear I thought I heard her scoff. "That can't have been easy..." She shrugged again.

"It hasn't been... it sucks honestly... but for your first few weeks, Gilda takes the time to walk you through the basic in and outs of the job so you don't suck. Kind of important to make sure that doesn't happen, God knows what'd happen if one of these days Rarity or I slipped up..." She was silent for a moment, if I had to guess, she was probably letting her implication, and its possibility's sink in.

There's somethin' she ain't telling me... about herself, Gilda- something, she's hiding something.... What the hell did Gilda do to her?...

"A-anyway, then she'll take you out, supervised obviously, to go and purchase stuff for your room, or personal pleasure. Gotta keep your workers happy right?" There's a sarcastic infection so strong, I almost rolled my eyes.

"I s'pose so. She owe's the two of you that much at least. How do ya deal with all these cameras scattered about? Gotta be mighty uncomfortable, bein' watched all the time."

"Oh it is trust me. Knowing Big Brother is watching you ninety percent of the day never really get's any easier to deal with. Thankfully there aren't any cameras in our rooms."

"There ain't?" She shakes her head.

"Believe it or not. I guess she thought 'customization' and 'privacy' would some how counter-balance being forced into this life..." She ended off bitterly.

"A manipulative psycho with a conscience?"

"Hmph, yeah, a real Norma Bates..." Norma who? I was suddenly curious 'bout how old this woman was. She couldn't have been more than my age, she looked younger than me actually. She inhaled a quick breath and exhaled a harsh sigh, and seemingly went back to her attitude from before. "Well, all the sex helps take some of the tension off, so there's that at least."

That little tag-on of hers at the end made me blush. I ain't a stranger to the act of love makin', but, call me old-fashioned, I always felt that sex should mean somethin'. Course everyone has their on take on the subject too, so I ain't ever been one to give someone shit for their thoughts on it. Still though, the idea of some varmint I don't even know usin' me like that, don't sit well in my gut. What really stinks is that, goin' by my recent findings, escape is lookin' more 'n more like a potential death wish.

"How'd that 'Rarity' character end up here? Hof made it out like you two were in a similar situation." Twilight rolled her eyes.

"Go ask her yourself." She about-faced, and bee-lined back for her both. Just as she was about to sit down, she turned back, now pointing at me. "You may want to clean your face up a bit. It's a little thrashed." Turning around again, she plopped back down, and resumed reading one of her books.

'Thrashed'... I hadn't gotten a look at my face since I woke up. It sure hurt yeah, but hell I've had worse.

Guess this conversations was over. A little glad honestly, talkin' with her was really tense, and the tiniest bit awkward; I never was good at first meetin's. Maybe this 'Rarity' person will be a little for informative, or at least more pleasant company. I push myself off the table, and limp my way to the bar to meet co-worker number two, who this whole time had her attention focused on the TV, or was busy doin' something behind the bar.

As I neared the bar, I noticed she was stackin' the shelves. Very important job, gotta say. Back turned to me, I sat myself down on one of the stools in front of her. I assume she heard me, cause a few seconds later she started talkin'.

"Don't let Twilight get to you too much, she's always like that."

"Uptight, 'n very closed off?"

"Yes, I'm afraid she's got quite the hardened exterior, I still recall when I first met her, she was very... how shall I say?..."

"Off-putting?" I offered. She nodded her head.

"Quite." Well we're already kinda off to a better start then Twilight and I were. I wonder where this 'Rarity' is from. Her accent sounds like it's some kinda European. It probably ain't but you never know. It was quiet for some moments, so my eyes wandered up 'n down my new co-worker.

This 'Rarity' looks like quite the woman. She was wearin' what looked to be a white button-up shirt, didn't look like it was tailored cheap neither. Like Twilight she was wearing a pair of black jeans, but her shirt was tucked in. I couldn't see her shoes, but she looks like the heels wearin' type. Her hair was somethin' else though, it looked like... I dunno what, it's like flat, but full; point is it looked nice. Not normally the type of person I'd associate myself it, well more like them not associate themselves with me, but anyone to talk to on friendly terms was better than nobody.

"So you the bartender for this place?"

"Not 'officially' I suppose, but I felt that I needed something to occupy my time with during my stay here. Of course swift access to a nice drink every now and again was also a persuasive notion as well."

"Ha, I hear that. I'm figurin' Im'ma need a few during my residin' of this 'lovely' establishment." She let out a low laugh.

"I know that particular feeling all too well... Oh! Where are my manners." Suddenly she turned around to face me. "My name is Rarity. Pleasure to make your aquai- OH MY STARS!"

Oh my stars, that scared the crap out of me! Actually made me jump! Think I'm halucinatin' too, thought I saw some weird gleam cross her eyes right now...

"Darling, your face, i-it looks positively thrashed! You look like you were in some sort of fight, what happened!?" Well shit, didn't think I was that badly tore up. I suddenly felt mighty embarrassed, I started scratchin' the back of my head; an old nervous habit.

"Well ya ain't to far off... see, I kinda got in tussle with the owner herself, and lost." To my everlastin' shame...

"I told you to go wash up!" I heard Twilight chime in from behind.

"Oh, hush you!" Twilight let out a loud single 'HA' at that. "We simply must get you cleaned up."

"Look, it's not that bad, I-I've had worst honestly."

"Rubbish! We have first-aid in the kitchen, come with me, we cannot allow your wounds to become infected." She turned left (my left that is) and fast-walked to the kitchen.

"Look miss, I appreciate the concern, really, but ya don't gotta-" Before I could finish, she stopped dead in her tracks, and snapped her gaze to me.

"This issue shall not be debated, now would you kindly make your way to the kitchen?" Then she fast-walked her way into said kitchen.

"You'd better do what she says, she isn't exactly the kind of woman you wanna argue with." Twilight advised me from the safety of her booth.

Might as well do as she says, I don't feel like debatin' and I guess I should tend to these wounds, so's they don't get infected.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------Gilda------------------------------------------------------------------

I decided on sticking Applejack at the end of the hallway, solely for the purpose of her having to walk those few extra steps everyday.

Me: 2
Applejack: 0

Just cause she fit the bill for The Griffon, doesn't mean I like her. Respect yeah, there's definitely a certain respect for a woman like her. Doesn't mean we gotta take selfies together and shit.

Last door on the left, and Goddamn, the last woman who worked in here made a mess before she left. Can't remember her name, just remembered she wanted to open up a bar or something. The mattress is off the bed, one of the shelves has no drawers, there's litter everywhere, and I'm pretty sure I smell a dog in here. And other stuff.

Perfect!

I guess I'll be fair and call in someone to clean it up for her, least I could do I guess, but unfourtanently (for Jack) she's just gonna have to deal for a few days. I decided on going through the room, to see if what's-her-face left anything cool or that should be thrown away. A few granola bar wrappers, some old Misfits bootlegs, and cans of Faygo... the fuck is Faygo?

Eh, might as well set the mattress in the center for her, probably gonna need some new blankets too. Definitely some new pillows, these... these look crusty. Mattress was a little heavier than I thought it would be, but I was happily surprised that no bugs or anything were on, or in, it. I gathered up the old blankets- Ew ew ew- and toss them out in the hall, same treatment with the pillows and their respective cases.

Exiting the room, I walked to the very back of the hall, where a closet was located. I put that there originally so the girls would have easy access to spare bedroom items. Cheap spares sure, but not uncomfortable: 'nothing fancy but nothing shitty', that's my motto. I grabbed two pillows, and a bright pink afghan. Normally that would go on a couch, but given it's design, it won't give her too much warmth, but she also won't be able to say she's freezing.

Me: 3
Applejack: 0

I tossed them on the bed, figuring she'd be able to take care of it from there, she's a big girl. Plus how uncomfortable could she get? She has been living on the road for about two years now.

Two years...

I've been living here for five now, where'd the time go?...

The feeling of realizing of how quickly my life has passed me by gave me an unpleasant feeling in my stomach, it felt like a ball made of ice was sitting right in the center, slowly creeping its way up to my heart. I suddenly felt a need to retire for the day to my office, give myself some time and privacy to think, collect my thoughts, hell maybe even take a day or two off. With Applejack being here, I don't have to be in my other 'office' for a few weeks, so why not get an early start on my vacation?

Leaving the room once more, I walked down the hall, straight to Flim and Flam. Obviously I couldn't let them my incoming depressive state, nor did I want to, so I decided to relieve them of duty for the day. Hardening my demeanor I approached my henchmen.

"Alright boys, your works done for today, I got the rest of this covered." The almost-twins sparred each other a look.

"Are you certain? That Applejack is a rowdy lot, what if she attempts an escape?"

"Course I'm sure Flam! Besides where's she gonna go? Town is however many miles away, and I don't think she'd risk the dessert."

"Hmm... but what's to say she won't? If what you told us is true, she is quite used to living it rough."

"She has, granted, but given her physical state, I don't think she's in the right condition to try anything."

"...If you are certain. Come Flim, let us away then, call upon us whenever you require our services again."

"No problem." I then made a 'shoo' motion with my hand. "Now get outta here you two. Me thinks you could use a warm bath to sooth the pain of your defeat today." They both rolled their eyes to my little jab at their pride.

"One victory, a warrior does not make little birdie. You would be wise not to let this small victory go to your head." With that they turned about face, and walked out the door, just as they exited Flim decided to leave me with his two cents.

"Vanity kills, Miss Hof." Then they were gone.

I stood there for several seconds, absorbing their advice. They did actually make a good point, I shouldn't let this give me too big a head, last thing I need is my ego to compromise my judgement. That could lead to mistakes, and a mistake in our line of business could lead to imprisonment, or death. I brushed away these thoughts away from my mind, I already had enough negativity I needed to deal with.

I walked into my bitching lounge, greeted by the sight of it being completely barren, save for Twilight at her usual booth. I almost panicked, but quickly calmed myself, remembering my own words to Film and Flam, on how she had nowhere to go. The curiosity was bugging me, so I decided to ask Sparkle if she noticed where Jack and Rarity were.

I was already feeling ill. Not cause of my previous thoughts, but because of the fact that I gotta talk to Twilight... she's so off-putting! I mean I guess I shouldn't expect smiles and hugs, but still, her socializing sucks. I heard Rarity saying to one of the girls how Twilight's actually "gotten better" at that, but I find that extremely doubtful.

Walking up to her table, but not close enough to where she'll bitch at me, I asked my question. "Hey Sparkle, you see where Rarity and the new chick go to?" As per usual, she didn't look up as she answered me.

"Applejack's the 'new chick' right?"

"That's her."

"I saw her when you guys walked in, you banged her up pretty good." Not expecting the compliment, I let a smirk show as I puffed my chest out.

"Heh! Yeah, I really cleaned her clock alright. Not gonna lie Twilight, I looked pretty badass."

"Really?" She put her book down, eye-brow raised at me. "Cause the way I heard it from her was that, you tackled her from behind in a moment of, what was probably, desperation." Well there went my good mood.

"Not 'desperation' Sparkle, it was an act of strategy. Besides what's it to you? I seriously doubt you give that much of a shit about her, and I doubt you could fight anyway!" Keeping her cool at my lash out, she responded calm and collected, like the smart-ass she is.

"I don't, and I didn't say I could. All I am saying is that, how you won barely qualifies as 'badass'. Seems more... pathetic; pathetic how you had to resort to those tactics rather." You mouthy bitch!

I slammed by hands on her table in a fit of rage. How dare she belittle my victory! She's lucky I don't have Flim and Flam rip her tongue out! She didn't even seem to care about how pissed she made me, shit, she looked like she was enjoying it!

"Hey! You weren't there Twilight! I did what I had to do to win!"

"By being a wimp and taking the easy way out. Read you crystal clear Lance Armstrong."

Lance Armstrong!? I was losing it, I needed to get out of there before I broke something.

"LOOK! Just..." I took in a few breaths to calm my rustled jimmies. "If you see her, tell her that her rooms all ready for her, and that it's down the hall, last door on the left, alright?..."

"I could... but why should I? What's my motivation?" She asked all cockily.

Has she forgoten who she's talking to? Time to remind this know-it-all of her place. Leaning in closer, uncomfortably closer to her face, I answered in a low tone, with an icy threat.

"If you want to talk... or even see that fake brother of yours ever again, you'll do as I ask. That enough 'motivation' for you?"

I really don't think she expected me to go there. The look on her face, it looked like a mixture of shock, like when you find out someone close to you passed away. Fear, like when something important is at stake, or your life's on the line.

"I, w-what?..." I swiftly grabbed her by the collar of her shirt, lifting her out of her seat.

"Did you forget who you're trying to clown with?... I don't know if you've realized this Twilight? But I'm dangerous. I was able to keep you here against your will for half a year out of pure fear. My lackeys are the lethal Flim and Flam." I showed my teeth. "Do you think I don't know where Spike lives, Twilight?..." I let the question hang in the air. The fear in her eyes was all too real...

I roughly shoved her back into the cushion

"Now... Can ya do this little favor for me pal?" Slowly her head lowered, some of her hair falling over her face with it.

"Y-yes..." I turned my head so my right ear was facing her.

"Yes what?"

"Y-yes Gilda... I-I'll let her know, i-if I see her..." She was trying to hold tears back...

"Thanks a lot pal!" I started in a chippy tone. "I knew I could count on you!" With that I turned from her table and walked out of the lounge.

As soon as I walked out through the doorway, I heard it. I very faint... almost non-existent sob.

I turned around to see her, but I was greeted with the sight I saw when I first walked in. Twilight's nose intently in a book. Only this time the book wasn't held up, it was sitting atop the table, as she lazily held it with one hand, while the other wiped at her eyes. I actually made her cry.

Good. She should've known better than to try talking to me like that. I got outta there, and briskly walked through my financial office, into my office/living space. My thoughts briefly fell to Twilight as I sat on the couch I had against the wall, opposite the door.

Maybe... I took that too far.

I shook my head almost frantically after that thought popped up. I settled on thinking that she'd be fine after a few tears and a sob or two came out. Besides... I don't want to risk feeling bad. Running a hand across my forehead, I let out a long loud breath I'd been wanting to get out since Applejack's room, scanning my head over my humble abode.

Basic shit honestly. To my right, a desk, a chair, and a window behind them. Not much of a view, just the back yard area, which housed my sick barbecue that we cooked all our meats on. Then all the way to the left of the room was my 40+ inch HDTV, which had a lovely Playstation 4 hooked up to it. I like to call this room my, Super Yummy Living-space.

On the end of the right side of the couch; on the floor, I have this boss mini-fridge, which speaking of, housed my alcohol. Some of which I defiantly want right about now.

----------------------------------------------------------Applejack--------------------------------------------------------

I very un-enthusiastically, followed Rarity into the kitchen where she said first aid was. Not sure why it'd be in here, but hell, ain't my kitchen. When I walked in, I saw the soon-to-be nurse in question reaching up into a steel cupboard, which damn, if I could give Hof anything, it's that she knows how to accommodate her workers, well, the ones she doesn't kick in the face...

"Ah-ha! There it is!" She pulled back, white box in hand. "Now, if you would Applejack, sit yourself upon the counter here, so I can start cleaning your wounds."

Looking to my right, I saw the counter she was referring to. Didn't particularly want to, I mean come on, people serve food on that...

"I'd rather not, miss Rarity, don't mean to be rude, but I don't feel right about sitting where the food is made..." She didn't give me to nice a look for statin' that opinion.

"Really?... Come now Applejack, stop being silly, and let me help you." Letting out a huff, I complied, hoistin' myself on the edge. Rarity set the box down to my right, and started pulling the supplies out: band-aids, cotton balls, and disinfectant. Thought there'd be more to it, but then again last thing I need is Rarity trying to stitch me up.

"I'm sure this goes without saying, however I feel it necessary to warn you-"

"It's gonna sting, I know." She let out a small 'hmph!' at my interruption, and I would've apologized, but something told me that she wasn't all that serious about it.

"I am simply giving you fair warning." She said as she poured a small dab of disinfectant on one of the cotton balls, and moved to apply it to my face. "I would recommend closing your eyes, and trying your best not to smell a lot of this stuff. Burns the lungs you know."

I was about to roll my eyes but when the ball came into contact with a cut I had somewhere on my cheek- "Ah! Son of a bitch that stings!" Rarity didn't falter and continued to press it against my skin. "Ow, dammit!" Rarity let loose a small laugh and smile at my expense.

"Language miss Applejack~... did I not tell you it would sting?" Now I rolled my eyes.

"Aw whatever... didn't tell me it'd be that bad..."

A few moments of her disinfecting my wounds in silence filled the room, that and my wince's every now and again. The silence was broken only when Rarity put the damnable disinfect away, as she pulled out some tissues.

"What're those for?" She answered me as she started to pat at my face.

"To try and dry away some of the remaining blood. Would you be a dear, and apply pressure to them? It will aid in drying the blood up much quicker." I did what I was told, and held the pieces of cloth to my face; above my eye-brow, and on my left cheek. Right side still ached like hell, but I guess there wasn't much fussin' to be caused over it.

"So do tell Applejack, from where do you hail?"

"Uh... do I 'hail' what?" Rarity only answered in a quick giggle, as she took out several band-aids.

"Where are you from?"

"Oh! Well why din' you just say that? I'm from San Antonio." Her big blue eyes widened at my declaration.

"Oh my, all the way from Texas?" Curiosity lacing her tone.

"Yep, sure as the sun." She started to the apply bandages.

"What is it like over there? I've always wished to travel to that state." Really?

"What's it like?... Well it's big, hot, and it has a whole lotta American history, as well as land good for farmin'."

"I imagine so. Did you yourself work on one? A farm, or a ranch rather?" I guess that's all the treatment she could give me, cause she started putting the box away.

"Funnily enough I did. My daddy was the owner of Sweet Apple Acres, we worked in-" I cupboard door was quickly shut, then she spun around to face me faster than the Tasmanian Devil.

"Sweet Apple Acres!?" That's twice she's made me jump now...

"Y-yeah. Why? Heard of us?"

"Why, yes indeed! My Father used to deal business directly with that company all the time!" Okay, now I'm confused...

"Ya'll did? What's your family do?"

"Father and Mother own a small patch of land which we would work on, but with that, they also owned several of the best restaurants in my hometown. Father always wanted the best of the best when it came to stock, and obviously we unfourtanently we couldn't supple everything, so he would frequently outsource help from your family's business." I raised my eye at the sudden information. 'Patch of land'? 'Restaurant'? 'Work? I doubt a woman looking like she does could've done that kind of work...

"Where exactly you from, miss Rarity?"

"I hail from the lovely state of Michigan! My family lives in Clinton county." What? What? Her, Michigan, what???

"You?" I shouldn'ta said that, Rarity's mood dropped instantly, 'n she became all sullen like.

"Why must everyone ask that..." Now I felt bad for judgin' the book 'fore I opened it...

"I-I didn't mean to offend, just surprised me was all. That is a mighty interestin' coincidence how our Fathers crossed paths 'n all, but how in the wide world ya end up here?" Rasin' her head up, she gave me a look that showed she didn't really wanna talk about it.

"To make a long story significantly shorter, I was offered a job down here, which was given away, then I sought out Gilda, who turned out to be nothing more than a common criminal." I crossed my arms, leaning against my knees.

"I don't think anything 'bout Gilda's exactly 'common'." Rarity leaned against the wall behind her, crossing her arms and her left leg over her right.

"Hm. I suppose you're right." I lowered my head and stared at the floor, all was quiet for some time.

"... How did you find yourself down here miss Applejack? Have you got family here in Nevada?" I shook my head.

"No... no all my family, the important ones I mean, all live back in San Antone."

"Whatever brought you here in the first place?" Damn it all, I don't wanna tell this story again, I thought I could trust Gilda with it and... *sigh* now that ain't fair comparin' the two, I don't peg Rarity as the type of person to betray someone... Course I thought the same 'bout Gilda, and look where that landed me...

"I... I uh..." I still wasn't lookin' at her, even though I could feel her stare on me. "It's... a long story..." She seemed disappointed, but didn't look all that surprised.

"I see... if you don't wish to talk about it, I won't force you to Applejack. I can see it is a very personal subject for you... you confided in Gilda, didn't you?" I gave a weak nod. "I see... so we have suffered the same treatment." I turned my head up, eyes on Rarity.

"I shall not peruse the matter then." That made me feel a little nice inside, I couldn't fight the smile that made it's way to my bruised face.

"That's mighty kind of you miss Rarity. And thank you for the whole cleanin' up thing."

"You are most welcome miss Applejack." She smiled back..

"... I'm sorry you and that Twilight gotta endure all of this... I'm rackin' my brain tryin' to find a solution to all this but..."

"Frankly, I do not believe there is one..." For a split second, her voice sounded like she had given up... Removing herself from the wall, she started to head out of the kitchen, when she was at the doorway, she turned to look at me again.

"It was a pleasure meeting you miss Applejack. During the on and off-hours I am working the bar unless I am called to work. If you wish, perhaps we might keep each other company, and learn a little more about each other?" The question sounded hopeful.

"I wouldn't mind that at all." I answer with a smile, she returned it.

"I am looking forward to it." Then she was gone.

That reminds me, I wonder if Gilda ever got finished with my room?

I walked out of the kitchen, and looked around the lounge, no sign of Gilda in sight. Twilight, I noticed, was still at her booth, figured I'd ask her if Gilda came through.

"Howdy Twilight, ya'll seen if-"

"Room's done, last door on the left." It came out so fast, I barely heard it. She sounded anxious, nervous, wonder if she's alright.

"You all right there?"

"Yep. Fine. Room's done, you should probably go right?" She didn't once look at me from her book, and I didn't like her tone, something happened that shook her up... Aw hell, she ain't gonna tell me if I ask anyway. Against my better judgement, I left her alone, and went to my room intent on retiring for the day, it's been... stressful.

Least I would've had my room not been completely trashed... I hate this woman...

-------------------------------------------------Gilda-----------------------------------------------------

Laying on the couch. Another can a beer. A bigger buzz. Not sure how many Coors I slammed, but it was enough to where I was seeing wobbly, and started thinking about today...

Man... heh heh I fucked that Jack up, didn't... din't even see me comin'... "Fffuck that Twilight, smartass little bitch..." Swig. "Feels like, Goddamn yesterday I even brought that bitch in here... Five years... the fuck did my life go? Why'd I even do this in the first place?

"Psh, dumb question, I wanted money, what's the big deal?..." Swig.

The 'big deal', drunky, is the fact of how you got here in the first place, the things you've done, and the people you've hurt.

"... I did what I needed to do! And who the hell are you to tell me what I should or shouldn'tve done?"

This is your conscience you dweeb! I'm the thing in you try to pretend you don't have. You know, like when you frantically shake your head, trying to stop yourself from feeling bad?...

"I..I-I must be goin' crazy..."

No, not 'crazy' per-se, just a little... mad. Why can't you just admit your wrongdoings? That coming here five years ago was a mistake? That you feel bad about what you put those three women through, just so you could make a buck.

"I-I knew what I was getting into when I signed up with Flim and Flam, and I don't feel bad 'bout what I done. It's their fault for being dumb enough to trust someone who says that they can get them free work! Look, I don't have to explain nothin' to... myself, so let me drink in peace..."

"You wanna know the truth; where all of this doubt in your head really stems from?"

"Where? My turmoiled aching heart or some shit?"

Close... You regret hurting... him.

"The hell are you on about now?"

You know exactly who I'm talking about. Older guy? The one you let commit statutory rape? The one you sold out for your own selfish gain.

...

The man who, at one point, you felt was the only one, that wasn't your parents, to ever really love you.

Cranky...

I bolted off the couch after his name popped in my head, a little too fast though, as right after I did I hit the floor.

"No... no I... I can't..."

I was able to shakily stabilize myself on my knees, I could feel my eyes start to tremble. I try so hard to keep all of this shit bottled up, but today, it just uncorked itself on me. I always felt bad, I guess, but I chalked that up to what little empathy I naturally had, I thought... I-I thought it'd just go away! I very clearly remember enjoying the power I had over Twilight, feeling numb about it all when I brought in Rarity, yet I felt over the moon when I beat Applejack!

What the fuck is wrong with me?...

Drinking myself into a daze like this, has done nothing but resurface all these conflicting, damning feelings, and I hate how I'm so confused on where I stand on it all! I made the choice to leave home and come here, I made the choice to employ Film and Flam, and I made the choice to ruin some lives along the way, in the process of five years, so why now, do I feel like shit!?

Because all of that youthful, proud, driven ambition you once had when you were just barely an adult, has died away, and replaced by more rational thinking. The short of it is Gilda, you simply grew up, and realized what an utter bitch you've been.

...

Maybe...

Trying very hard not to fall over, I stood up and made my way over to my desk, certain moments replaying in my head.

"Go to hell!!! I trusted you!"

Twilight wanted, no needed to find a way to support her widowed sister-in-law, and adoptive brother. She's lost her big brother to murder, or possibly suicide, she's lost her freedom and not too long ago today, I alluded to her, or her brother Spike's life being in danger if she didn't relay a message for me...

I pulled out my chair as I sat down,laying my head on my arms upon the surface.

"You're mad... no not mad, you're sick. Sick, a-and demented. I needed your help! I trusted you, and you think 'helping' me, is asking me to work in a brothel as some sex object!?"

Rarity wanted get enough money to bring her little sister down here, to get away from her melencho-mel-m-melen... depressing home life, after the career opportunity of her dreams was taken away from her. Ever since she got here, she's been behind that bar, most likely trying to drink away her problems as well.

"*Huff... huff*... We... done, yet? *Huff*"... "*Huff* Why? Why do ya... want me in that club-a yours so... *huff* so bad?"

"*Huff... weeze* I... gave up...every- *cough* everything to run my business... I'm willing to do whatever is necessary, to keep my dest-... dream alive."

"At the *pant* expense of, o-of conspirin' with known killers? Ruining unknowing women's lives?"

Then there's Applejack... a runaway who's been living on the road for two years, estranged from her family, no where to go, but she still finds a reason to even get up in the morning and continue on.

I lifted my head up from my arms, feeling extremely drained. I turned my attention to the top drawer of my desk, right under my sagging corpse. Almost in a trance, I rolled back slightly, and opened it up revealing one of the last remnants of my past.

Don't know why I keep this Goddamn thing... all it does is bring back held in strife.

The item in question was a photograph. An average 3x5 picture in a small frame, should be nothing special, but what was in it, always made me pause.

It was of Cranky and I. Specifically, in the spring time at the local fair that came through that year. Admittedly at first glance there wasn't nothing too special about it. It was taken selfie style, at about arms length away, I had a big ol' smile on my face, and cranky had a smaller content one, with his arm wrapped around my shoulders. I always really liked it for some reason though, he and I just looked so...

Happy...

I hate how I can still get sentimental over him, I-I mean come on let's get real here, he was a pedophile! He took advantage of a young woman!

Even though you completely went along with it.

He cheated on his wife!

Which never bothered you before.

...

I ran my thumb over the glass frame, mulling over my current thought patterns. I take note of how at peace the old man was... how happy I looked.

Why did I hurt you?... What did I really gain from it?

As I recall, you did it for money.

At the expense of my peace of mind almost seven years later... why now? Why does it hurt me now!?

You know why, oh you know exactly why.

... N... no...

That's right, you Gilda Hof still-

"I... I-I still love him."

...

...

The picture dropped from my hand to the desk.

...

My eyes widened and began to quiver.

...

The hand that held it slowly covered my mouth.

...

My free hand rested itself over my heart.

...

And then I began to cry.

"Oh God... o-oh God, what- w-what have I done!?" After all he did for me, after all I did with him; he cared about me, he loved me! That day in the court... h-he looked so numb, so dead, and I caused that... because I betrayed him, I sold him out... I... I

"I-I'm s-s-sorry Cranky... I'm so sorry..."

Flashes of memories from years ago went by in my head like a windy breeze, swift, and chilling me to my core. Dates we went on, places he took me, stuff he bought me... our first time together... moments I wasn't even aware I held close to my heart drowning my senses in sorrow I didn't even know I felt.

I've... I-I've made a horrible mistake, I threw away my life for this place, and what do I have to show for it!? Two murdering asshole brothers, so far at least three ruined lives, and a guilty conscience that's eating me alive! But... there's no going back for me now, I'm in too deep with these guys; with Sombra. There's nothing I can do...

I sat there for what felt like hours, letting out everything I've held in for seven years until my eyes ran dry, and the pounding of my heart slowed down from panic to mild anxiety. After calming down the best I could, I tried to get my head back in a stable form of mind.

Ok... *sigh* ok. I've fucked up. Big time. I going to have to except that eventually, but now... now I need to move on, keep pressing forward. The Griffon... the Griffon will move forward and evolve as planned. I feel like utter shit, but I can't let that interfere with my work, after all I've given up for this establishment, I can't just let it die.

I removed myself from the chair and headed over to the couch, and threw myself down on it, back first.

I guess I feel a little better now, now that I've let all those pent up emotions out, and I realize the problem isn't, or rather wasn't the girls, it was my nagging guilt over Cranky... the man I betrayed; the man I still love. That fact is a hard pill to swallow, one I need to, and fast, if I hope to move on.

Then I remembered that starting tomorrow, I had to start walk Applejack through the basics for the next couple weeks. That's gonna suck. Plus I still had one more position to fill.

Ugh, still so much work to do!

At that point I figured that I had done enough thinking for one day, and decided to turn in. What time was it anyway?... Eh, I didn't care I just wanted to sleep, closing my eyes, I attempted to do just that.

...

...

...

...

"THAT'S IT!"

An idea came to me... an awesome idea. An idea that maybe, just maybe, could sooth my guilty conscious, and I could redeem myself. An idea that's risky, may not work, and will cost a lot of money, and require me to keep doing what I'm doing, but the pay off is totally worth it. An idea, that may take a few more years to raise the funds for, but would be completely worth the risk of associating myself with Flim, Flam and their entire organization. An idea that's worth doing whatever it takes to make it succeed, no matter who I step on, and who I have to go through that's in my way.

An idea that, if it works... could lead to my salvation.

Yeah... yeah, this could work! I-I won't have to live with this emotional hurricane anymore, if I go through with this and it works!

I leaped up from the couch, stumbling to the ground again, but picking myself up with greater ease, I grabbed a shit load of paper and pencils from my desk, a calculator, and a whole lotta Gatorade from the fridge. I had a lot to start planning.

Oh yeah... this is gonna be rad.

Author's Notes:

A two month later update, and I leave you all with that vague, cliff-hanger, vague ending to this chapter... I can't apologize enough, I never intended to update this monthly or something, life has just tuned out that way. If all goes well, the next chapter won't take, you know, two months, but we'll see.This chapter originally wasn't going to get this deep, but it just evolved that way, and I rolled with it, figuring it was a good opportunity to introduce future story elements. Plus I wanted to show how nuts Gilda's getting. Guilt, and confusing/conflicting feelings can ruin anybody, and right about now she's filled with enough maddening feelings of guilt, grief, anger, and drive to give Max Payne a run for his money.

Thanks a bunch to those trying this story out for the first time, or for tuning back in, and also like always, if there are any mistakes, glaring, small or otherwise, do let me know, so I can fix them, I try to be thorough when writing and editing, but I can't catch everything unfourtanently.

Next chapter... that dark tag is gonna come into play...