Well, now, this was interesting.

The chessmaster stroked the second white knight on the chessboard with his magic, thoughtfully sucking on the cigarette between his lips. This Flash Sentry had been an unexpected addition to the board, a second white knight to stand alongside Phillip Finder. His skill and maneuverability had been truly surprising to behold: the white team had gained a very valuable piece in the Guard. And the truly incredible thing was, Phillip truly cared about the colt.

But his feelings didn't keep him from putting the youngling out before his own pawns, though.

He considered the state of his own armada. Lockpick had been a valuable piece, and losing him had been a rather harsh blow to his own organization. But it was the fool's own fault for allowing his misplaced, obsessive love to get the better of him. And besides, he was certain that Phillip Finder would have caught him eventually. He'd been doomed the moment he came to this town.

He took a long draw of his cigarette and blew out these thoughts in a puff of smoke. Enough. It was in the past now. It was time to focus on the present. Specifically, on Phillip Finder.

Specifically, on how to break him.

He glanced up and took down one of the photographs from the ever-expanding portfolio displayed on the walls. It was a shot of Phillip Finder and Flash Sentry standing side by side as they exited 221 B Boulevard. A perfect shot of the two stallions in motion, both of them caught completely unaware of their admirer. Blissfully ignorant of the fact that they were caught up in this great game of theirs. Simple little minds, ready to be broken.

Broken...

A vindictive smile crossed the chessmaster's face. He knew just the pony to call.

Author's Notes:

Thought you'd heard the last of this guy, didn't you?