I pulled the trigger and another body slumps to the ground.

Looks like we will need another pyre. I sighed and raised my rifle again. Am I cursed to forever smell burning flesh?

It happened sometime in the middle of the night. Cog and the griffin who was standing watch with him spotted shapes in the night. Turns out there were more ponies and zebras hiding in the houses. They didn’t get far.

We had them sitting in a neat row, with Talon mercenaries standing at both ends of that row making sure no one tried to escape. They were to be executed, and I was the executioner.

Some were scared while others were raging, and yet some just hung their heads in despair. I aimed and pulled the trigger. A sky-blue pony mare fell to the ground, the buck near her shuddered and started crying. He was next.

Cog and Saw were dragging the bodies away to be burnt while I reloaded my rifle. Why was I doing this? Why me? IronClaw and Saw were right. These ponies and zebras don’t deserve anything better. The zebras were in it for the profit and didn’t care who they hurt. The ponies… After what they did to the foals. Something twisted inside me. I can never forgive them for that.

I pulled the trigger and the buck fell to the ground. A zebra mare was next.

Would the same fate await the foal that I failed to save from the Remnant? The memory was still fresh in my mind. They shot the mother and I just stood there. They knocked out the foal and carried her away, and I just stood there.

I raised my rifle and took aim, but something made me hesitate. She looked up at me, meeting my eyes. Profound sadness etched on her face.

My magic faltered and my body started shaking. Those eyes. Those green eyes.

“Zaeryl.” I whispered. No, it can’t be!

“Come on Mist.” Heard someone tell me, but I couldn’t.

“Come on Mist. Do it.” No. I can’t.

I was being betrayed by my own magic. It slowly reasserted its hold on the rifle.

“Come on Mist. Do it.” No, please don’t make me. I whimpered. My magic was starting to wrap around the trigger.

I looked back into her eyes. There was no anger, no disappointment or scorn, only sadness.

“Come on Mist. Do it.” More voices seemed to join in. I recognized them. IronClaw, Shrapnel, Cog and Saw.

I can’t! She… That’s Zaeryl! Why? Why is she here?

“Come on Mist.” No please don’t. I don’t want this. Tears were running down my cheeks blurring my vision, but the rifle remained perfectly trained on Zaeryls head.

“Come on Mist. Do it.” The trigger was being squeezed. No please don’t make me. I’ll do anything just don’t make me do this! I blubbered and gasped.

Zaeryl closed her eyes and hung her head, waiting for the bullet.

There was nothing I could do. I can’t stop this. So I closed my eyes as well.

“Come on Mist… Wake up!”

The shot was never fired.

Reality came rushing at me, the chanting and smell of burning flesh was replaced with concerned murmurs and the somewhat stuffy air of the house we were all sleeping in.

Two bright pink eyes were looking at me full of concern.

“Mist, are you okay? Bad dream?” Shrapnel asked tilting her head. I nodded and sat up while the armored mare stepped aside. My heart was pounding, I was disoriented, but so happy that I woke up before. Well, just before.

“I remember when I made my first kill. Couldn’t sleep for a week. I mean I knew they were raider scum, but still.” One of the griffins was telling Cog while casting glances my way and nodding in understanding.

He doesn’t understand. I already had those nightmares years ago. This nightmare was much worse.

Some of the details were already fading from memory, but I could still recall the cold fury I felt while pulling the trigger. I actually felt like I needed to kill them, like it would somehow make things better. Celestia help me.

Why am I shaking? I didn’t feel cold. I hugged myself in an attempt to make it stop. I felt like a stranger in my own body, not understanding what it was doing.

A hoof went around my back and I felt cool metal press against me. I buried my muzzle in Shrapnel’s blond mane and started sobbing.

“Is it because of the pony and zebra you shot yesterday?” She asked gently stroking my mane. I nodded. “It’s going to be okay Mist. You’re not a bad pony.” She cooed into my ear.

I am a bad pony, and I’m afraid. Afraid of what I was becoming.

It took me a while to pull myself together. I couldn’t have done it without Shrapnel that’s for sure. The other mercenaries decided to pretend that my little breakdown never happened. That was incredibly kind of them and I was grateful.

“Want one?” I looked up from collecting my things from the floor. One of the griffins was holding out a box full of those little smoking paper sticks. He already had one in his mouth.

“No, thank you.” I declined politely.

“Not a smoker. Smart. These things can kill you. Turn your beak yellow too.” He paused for a moment looking up. “Well yellow-er.” He amended.

Well if the smell was any indication they definitely weren’t healthy. Hmmm. Before the griffin could put away the box I reached out with my magic and pulled one of them out for closer inspection.

“What did you say these were called again?” I levitated the long white cylinder in front of my eyes. Part of it was brown, the part you put in your mouth I suppose.

“Umm… they’re called cigarettes, or cigars.” The griffin answered giving me a weird look.

What it was might be obvious to him, but I had only seen them once before Sumaj. A trader passing through Navarost was smoking one. I asked Zaeryl what the zebra was doing, only to get: “Poisoning himself.” as an answer.

I brought the cigarette closer and smelled it. Hey I know this smell. It’s from a plant I actually had to pick a couple of times. Now what was its name again? Tobacco!

I raised an eyebrow and looked at the griffin. The burning end of the cigarette got a little brighter and was quickly followed by two streams of smoke from his nose. “You do know that the plant this is made from is used as an insecticide, right?” It basically is poison all in of itself.

The griffin stared at me, his mouth open and the cigar hanging out precariously. Okay so he didn’t know. I levitated the cigar back into the box.

The griffin started laughing. “Now you sound just like Lizzie.” He wiped a tear from his eyes with a talon.

“Lizzie?”

“The lieutenant.” He waved my concerns off with his talon. “I’ll be done in by a bullet long before smoking catches up to bite me on the tail feathers.”

That is… some pretty dark optimism.

“Alright everyone! Get your shit packed, IronClaw says we’re heading out right fucking now!” Saw bellowed, Cog rolled his eyes as he came to stand next to the griffin.

“Sheeesh. Is she always like this?” The griffin asked me while rubbing his ear. At least I think it was his ear. Hard to tell with the plumage covering his head.

“Most of the time. You get used to it. Or go deaf.” Cog answered. “Everypony and griffin ready?”

“Yeah got my rifle and sniper packed. I’m ready.” I should refill my canteen while I’m here though.

“I better go in case the lieutenant needs me. See ya Cog! Mist take care of yourself.” The griffin waved as he went for the door.

I looked at Cog straight in the eyes. Did he think differently of me now? I was kind of a jerk yesterday, and no doubt freaked him out.

“Ummm… What is it? Do I have something on my face?” Cog fidgeted nervously. Uneasy at the way I was looking at him.

“I’m sorry.” I sighed. “About the way I acted yesterday.”

He looked confused for a moment then relaxed. “Hey don’t worry about it. Yesterday was… well it was messed up. How are you holding up?”

“I don’t know. Do you think I did the right thing? Shooting an unarmed pony and that zebra?” I knew what the others thought.

IronClaw was just annoyed that he couldn’t get any information out of the buck first. Saw approved wholeheartedly. Shrapnel thought I did it because the pony had gone mad and needed to be put down before he hurt anyone else. That was part of it.

“Well.” Cog started, rubbing the back of his head with a hoof. “You probably did that zebra a favor by putting her out of her misery. The pony was insane right?”

“Yeah. Insane.” I felt a hoof tap me reassuringly on the back.

“Look no use worrying about it now. You did what you had to. Cheer up, you’ve never been to Vostoris right?”

“No.” But what’s that have to do with anything?

“You are in for a treat then. It’s the largest settlement in Zevrass. Forget Sumaj and Massif, they are tiny compared to where we’re going.” Cog tapped his chin thoughtfully. ”I’ll talk to Razor when we get there. Maybe we’ll even get some time off, and then I can show you all the awesome places there. You know. Have some fun, relax, and try to forget all the crap we’ve been through.”

“I’d like that.” I could do with some rest and distractions right now.

“Come on lets go before Saw comes back to shout some more.” He said pointing at the door over his shoulder with a hoof.

“Sure, let me just go refill my canteen.”

“Oh hey take mine while you’re at it.” Cog levitated out his own canteen and passed it to me. I gave it a little shake. It was almost empty. “I’ll be outside.”

“Alright I won’t be long.” I said as I trotted off to the kitchen.

Cog had sparked my interest in Vostoris and I kept imagining a Sumaj only bigger. I had seen Vostoris on maps, but they poorly account for actual size of settlements.

Turning the faucet caused it to shudder ominously. Instead of water, air hissed out, and then it went still. Carefully I leaned in for a closer look.

‘POOF!’ A little dust cloud emerged.

Great, I sighed. Maybe the bathroom has water?

Going upstairs to the bathroom made me glad that the house was already checked out. The creaky stairs would have given away my position in an instant. I turned the faucet in the bathroom and the damn thing started shaking too. A churning noise came from it and was quickly followed by a stream of brownish water.

“Oh you have got to be kidding me.”

I waited for a bit and the water eventually began to clear. Carefully I tried some before filling the canteens. The water had a slight oily taste to it, but otherwise seemed fine. It’s not like we’re near a spring or a river, just have to make do.

I looked at myself in the mirror and almost dropped the canteens. I look like crap. Both my mane and coat were filthy, caked with mud, blood and I don’t know what else. I had dark circles around my eyes, like I haven’t slept in days. No wonder everyone kept asking me if I was alright. I looked ready to keel over at any moment now.

Hopefully when we reach Vostoris I’ll be able to get some rest, and a bath.

The house was completely empty by the time I was done. I stood there for a moment in the room we had slept in. The charred and burnt furniture, the scarred walls. I couldn’t help but feel sad and empty. This was once someone’s home. I could almost see foals running around and playing while the adults sat and talked about their daily concerns.

What have we done? Why couldn’t the world stay the way it was before? Even now after all that has happened we still kill each other. Old hatreds and distrust still run deep.

I sighed and suddenly felt more tired than I was before. I need to get out of here before I start crying or something.

“Finally! Where the hell have you been?!” I promptly plopped on my rump. Saw greeted me the moment I stepped out.

“Had to refill the canteens.” For the love of Luna, please don’t tell me something bad happened.

“Well you sure took your sweet time. Come on everyone is waiting.” Saw went behind me, head butted me in the back and started pushing. I was glad she wasn’t a unicorn.

“I’m going, I’m going. No need to push. I can walk on my own.”

The others were gathered together, waiting with their weapons drawn. IronClaw and the Lieutenant were talking about something. I gave Cog his canteen back and sat beside him to listen.

“You’re going east? How far?” IronClaw asked the lieutenant in a serious tone.

“Just a little ways beyond the river. Take a peek at what the Remnant are up to then head back.” The griffin said almost playfully. She enjoys the danger.

IronClaw shook his head. “I trust there’s a good reason for sending you into Remnant territory?”

“Well you know what the situation is like, and lately both the Remnant and Separatists have been more active. That’s why they had you searching west. The council is worried and so is commander Razor.” The griffin looked worried herself. “The Remnant has been buying tech recently, and not the usual things like weapons and gems. Machine parts, so we figure they’re building something, and that is never good.” I’ll say. If they are building machines like the tanks they use, then they will need gems to power them, and that means they’ll need unicorns.

IronClaw nodded gravely. “Not good. Stay safe out there lieutenant, keep the wind under your wings.”

“You too commander.” She smiled and winked. Was she interested in IronClaw? Hmm… Maybe I’m just looking into it to deeply. “Come on boys, we have a job to do!” She spread her wings and took off, her two subordinates following suit. The wind from their takeoff pulled at my cloak and raised a lot of dust. I wonder if they did that on purpose? It was a showy exit.

We watched them as they climbed and disappeared out of sight.

“Let’s get moving. We have a lot of ground to cover.” IronClaw said while still looking up at the sky wistfully. No doubt he would prefer to fly, but with ponies along, he had to remain grounded. Or maybe it was the lieutenant? Whatever the reason, he didn’t complain.

“Hey boss, how about we take a little break?” Cog queried. We have been walking for several hours now, the smoking ruin of the village Firth well behind us.

“Alright, four hour rest. Nap if you can.” IronClaw said as he led us away from the road.

We found a nice little patch of bare ground near a few trees. Ash and charred branches indicated that the spot had been used for camping before.

We didn’t start any fires, so as to not draw attention to ourselves. The whole trip was pretty uneventful. We encountered wild dogs, but they shied away from us when we approached. As much as I was glad that everything was going so well, I knew it wasn’t going to last. Something is bound to go wrong. We will either get attacked, ambushed or something will blow up. Damn, the pessimism must be rubbing off on me.

“Have you thought about joining us for real?” Shrapnel asked. Was she talking to me?

I turned around to look at the armored mare. She had taken off her helmet and was looking at me expectantly with a smile.

“I told you I can’t. Not while the Talons take contracts from the Remnant and Separatists.” Shrapnel’s ears dropped and she frowned.

Hey! No fair! She stuck out her bottom lip and looked me right in the eyes, her own big enough to swallow me. How does she even do that? Damn it, I feel like I just kicked a puppy.

It took monumental effort, but I managed to look away. “I’m sorry Shrapnel.”

“Impressive. Few can resist Shrapnel’s pout.” Cog snickered while Shrapnel folded her hooves across her chest and glared at the ground. Wow. The change from heartbroken to annoyed was so fast that I had to blink a few times to make sure I wasn’t imagining it.

“We don’t actually take contracts that have anything to do with slavery.” IronClaw added suddenly drawing our attention. “The work we normally do for the Remnant or Separatists is either scouting, assistance with the local wildlife, and the occasional scuffles they have with each other.”

“How does that work?” That was a terrible idea. “So do you fight other members? What if Talon mercenaries are working for both at the same time?”

“That doesn’t happen. It’s more of a first come first serve. If something like that does happen then it is well within our rights to pull out. This is explained before we accept a contract.” IronClaw stated matter of factly.

“Of course that still doesn’t stop them from getting pissed, and turning on us.” Cog muttered.

“So you take contracts from basically anyone? You play all sides?” How does something like that work? “The Remnant, Separatists and Vostoris, doesn’t helping one of them hurt the other two? What if the Remnant contract you to help them with something while, say the Separatists hire you to spy on some other project the Remnant have going? Will the Remnant attack even though they have Talons helping them already?” I looked at the griffin. It must be uncomfortable working for a group that might be killing your friends.

The griffin rubbed his beak. “Well like I said. If we are confronted with our own members we won’t kill each other, but otherwise all contracts are considered independent. Only RazorWing is aware of exactly who is doing what and where.”

Well I suppose that makes sense, kind of. “How many Talons are there?”

“Our detachment in Zevrass is quite large, big enough to have an impact. We are one of the reasons Vostoris is able to remain neutral, the other being a large number of ponies that live there.”

“How exactly do Talons help keep it neutral?” Sure, playing all sides made it somewhat fair if odd, but I can’t imagine it having that much of an impact. They are just a group of mercenaries, highly trained to be sure, but still mercenaries.

“Air superiority.” IronClaw said proudly, and flared his wings. “The zebras may have their bat wing magic, or whatever, but in the sky they are no match for griffins or pegasi.” Pegasi?!

I blinked at the griffin a few times. They have pegasi too? “There are pegasi here? In Zevrass?”

“Dashites mostly.” IronClaw said as if it explained everything. I continued to stare, Cog snickered.

“It’s like this Mist. All the pegasi in Equestria belong to a group called the Enclave. My guess is you screw up bad enough, they brand you a Dashite and kick you off the clouds.” Cog rubbed the back of his head with a sour expression on his face. “You should really ask one of them when we get back. They could explain it better.”

“It’s all messed up politics crap.” Saw added suddenly. I thought she was asleep.

“Eh-hem!” IronClaw cleared his throat. Both Cog and Saw went silent. “Like I was saying. Vostoris has granted us a base of operations. In return a large number of us serve as guards. This isn’t enough however. That’s why we need to branch out and take contracts from others as well. We are more integrated with Vostoris, so we don’t take any contracts that might put the city in danger.”

“So while you do work for others your loyalties lie with the city?” Okay that wasn’t so bad. They work for the Remnant and Separatists because they need the caps, but are more oriented to the Free Tribes, and didn’t IronClaw say that they don’t get involved in slavery.

“We are loyal to the contract.” The griffin said looking grim then softened a little. “But I suppose we do lean more to the council and Vostoris. We do get privileges. Discounts and other benefits.”

“Benefits?”

“Yeah if you get into trouble the local law tends to turn a blind eye for minor offenses.” Cog explained. As good as that sounds for them, I doubt it’s good for the city. I have first hoof experience of what kind of trouble Cog, Saw and Shrapnel can cause.

“Good thing too with all the crap you cause.” Saw goaded from her reclined position.

“Hey, I’m not the one who went on a stabbing spree.” As I said. Good for them, not so good for Vostoris.

“That was self defense.” The yellow mare insisted. “I have a right to defend myself against stupidity.”

“How about it Mist? Wanna join?” Shrapnel chirped. She is persistent I’ll give her that.

“I don’t know. I’ll have to speak to your leader.”

“Smart.” The griffin said as he lay down on his belly, and looked off into the distance.

Cog stretched a few times and made himself comfortable on the ground, Saw was already snoring softly. I guess Shrapnel and I have the watch. I didn’t really mind since I wasn’t sleepy, and Shrapnel only sleeps occasionally it would seem.

I looked up at the starry sky and closed my eyes, enjoying the calm and letting go of all of my worries. This moment, right now. I wished it could last forever.

After a while I turned to look at the armored mare. Shrapnel was enjoying the stars too. She wore a smile while looking up. She was saying something but I couldn’t hear. Was it a prayer? I strained my ears to listen.

“…”

No she couldn’t be. That’s silly even for her. I must have misheard so I tried listening again. Dear Celestia, she is! She is actually counting the stars?! I had to suppress the urge to giggle.

“Shrapnel you know there is no way you can count them all.”

“Well of course not. Not all at once. I’m continuing from where I left off.” She said matter of smugly.

I tried to form a sentence and failed. Gathering my thought I tried again. ”How do you know from where to continue?” How the heck can anypony do that?

“Easy. See those stars there.” She pointed with her hoof to a patch of sky. All I saw was stars, but nodded anyway to see where she was going with this. “They look like a bunny. A few days ago, I got to the stars by his left ear. Now I’m continuing from there.”

I nodded slowly. “And how many stars have you counted so far?”

“Fifty thousand five hundred and eight.” She answered with a smile.

“Well you still have ways to go.” I just decided to smile at the silly pony. She is just so… random.

“Tell me about it.” She snorted.

“Why do you do it?” Was she bored?

“Well I like looking at them and it helps pass the time while the others sleep.” She does this all the time? I could have sworn I saw her asleep at least once.

“Don’t you sleep at all?” Thant can’t be healthy. In fact, I wonder how the lack of sleep hasn’t driven her insane.

She giggled. “Of course I do. It’s just that I don’t need as much sleep as other ponies.”

Okay. Not weird at all. “So what do you do in your free time, besides counting stars, when you’re not on an assignment?” She definitely isn’t the type of mare to sit still.

“Well I clean my guns and armor.” She said tapping her chin thoughtfully. “I used to play cards with Cog when he goes out to gamble.”

“Used to?”

“Yeah, but they get angry when they lose, and accuse Cog of using his magic to cheat.” She frowned. “IronCalw is always busy helping out commander RazorWing, and Saw just goes out to drink.”

“What about the rest of the Talons?” There are a lot of them right? Even pegasi.

“I don’t talk much with the others. They are nice to me and all, I just think they don’t want to be my friends.” She looked down at her hooves and started digging at the ground. “They think I’m strange. Weird and dangerous.”

What? That’s their excuse?! Sure Shrapnel is a bit odd, but that’s no reason to avoid her.

I put a hoof on her armored shoulder. “Shrapnel you are the nicest pony I have ever met. You have some odd quirks, but that’s no reason for others to shun you. Don’t let them get you down, you have friends that care about you.”

She brightened up a little. “Thanks Mist, you’re a good friend.” Was this the reason why she was so determined to have me join the Talons? Because I didn’t care how she acted and didn’t judge her?

“Listen I’m not sure if I’m going to join the Talons yet.” She immediately frowned and got all misty-eyed. “But that doesn’t mean we can’t still be friends. Cog said something about getting some time off and showing me around Vostoris. You should come with us, it’s going to be fun!” I forced a smile while regretting the “fun” part. Please, please, please Celestia and Luna don’t misinterpret this as the kind of fun that involves explosions and lots of shooting.

Shrapnel pulled me in a tight hug that had me gasping for air.

“Thanks Mist! You know, whenever I go with Cog it usually ends up with somepony or zebra shooting at us. With you along who knows. I might even get to blow something up!”

*whimper* Whyyy!?

IronClaw woke before dawn, Shrapnel had put on her helmet and was busy scanning the surrounding area. The joyous task of waking up Saw and Cog fell to me.

Cog woke up without too much trouble, Saw on the other hoof was a different story.

I tried calling out her name and nudging her, but she just mumbled something and went right back to sleep. That’s when Cog had the bright idea to splash her with water from his canteen.

“You’re one crazy bitch you know that.” Cog hissed at Saw while holding his bruised muzzle.

“Oh shut up. You had it coming, you whiney little bitch.” Saw said with a roll of her eyes, her mane still dripping.

Of course Cog would get punched. I mean, how could he even think that drenching Saw would be a good idea?

“If you two are finished, I’d like to get to Vostoris sometime today.” IronClaw said, clearly not amused by their antics. Agreed, after everything they said, I was curious to see this settlement.

We packed our gear and headed back to the road. It was unusually cold today, which only further aggravated Saw. She kept cursing and muttering about getting back at Cog, while trying to dry her mane with a rag.

The sky was full of dreary grey clouds, in fact the whole world was painted in a sad shade of grey. It fit the mood perfectly as we silently marched on.

After a while the wind picked up and it got considerably colder. Saw started sniffling and muttering to herself about catching a cold. Cog shivered a little every time a particularly chilly wind blew. Shrapnel and IronClaw seemed unaffected.

I started unclasping my cloak and levitating it to Saw. She looked at me with a smile on her face, amused. “Well aren’t you the gentlecolt. Keep your cloak Mist, I’m not some flower to wilt when it gets a little chilly.”

“You got that right.” Cog snickered, earning himself a dirty look from Saw.

“What I really need is a drink.” Saw pulled a bottle out of her saddlebags, there was barely any liquid left in it. She tossed the empty bottle aside and gave a sad sigh.

We continued moving in silence.

“Well this is boring.” Cog observed. “Anypony have a suggestion to pass the time?” Shrapnel’s head went up. “Not with an ‘I spy’ game?” He quickly added, and Shrapnel just lowered her head back down.

I almost wish someone were shooting at us… Why am I tempting fate? What the hell is wrong with me?!

“Got movement on my EFS, straight ahead!” The armored mare chirped happily. Oh you have got to be kidding me! “They’re not hostile!” Well there’s a twist.

“Looks like a caravan.” Our leader said while squinting and looking ahead. I was constantly amazed by how sharp his griffin eyes were. All I could see was a tiny grey blotch.

As we approached them the shape slowly came into focus. A rather big cart, laden with supplies was being pulled by a bighorn. A zebra with a long barreled rifle sat on the edge of the moving cart. Three more well armed and armored zebras, were walking beside it.

The caravan stopped, the zebra sitting in the back raised his rifle at us. The guards following at the side were quick to react, they pointed their weapons at us too.

Stupid! I couldn’t leave well enough alone could I? Just had to wish for excitement. I could hear metallic clicking as weapons were being drawn around me. IronClaw had his talons on his SMG’s, Shrapnel was spreading her legs to get better stability. Cog levitated out his revolver and Saw pulled out her pistol. I should activate my cloak, start moving to the right and flank them.

“Hold fire! They’re not raiders!” The zebra sitting on the cart yelled out to his friends. They didn’t put away their guns, but at least they weren’t pointing them at us anymore.

IronClaw gestured with a talon for us to lower our own weapons as he approached the caravan, we followed close, ready just in case something went wrong.

A zebra that was previously hidden by the carriage stepped out to greet us. She was a mare dressed in an old patched up armor, and had an SMG strapped and holstered to her barding.

“A griffin. You must be with the Talons.” She said as she stepped up to look at IronClaw. Her lips slowly spread into a grin. Okay keeping an eye on this one.

“Yes, and you are?”

“Liris. Trader at your service.” The zebra said with a little bow.

IronClaw regarded her suspiciously then looked at the cart. The zebra sitting there with the rifle ignored the griffin, but held his gun tightly. ”What are you selling? If you don’t mind me asking.”

The grin on Liris’s face spread even wider. “Why not at all! You are more than welcome to browse my wares.” Her ears dropped a little. “Though I am sad to say I don’t have that many goods at the moment. Just some food and a few spare ammo clips.”

“Got any booze?” Saw asked and earned an annoyed look from IronClaw. She ignored it and walked up to the trader.

“Hmm. I do have some moonshine if you’re interested?” The zebra tapped her chin then hopped up on the cart and started rummaging through it. She pulled out a small clay jug and showed it to Saw.

Caps exchanged hooves and Saw took a greedy gulp from the jug.

“Ahhhh! Now that hit the spot.” Saw sighed with relief, a goofy smile on her face.

I wish drink could cheer me up like that. Maybe I just never had enough? Mostly it was just one beer. Being drunk certainly couldn’t be that good.

“You travel a lot? I know some of the traders that usually follow the main road, haven’t seen you before.” IronClaw was a bit more relaxed now, but still regarded the mare suspiciously.

“Well to tell the truth I rarely stick to the main roads. I make better trade with the more secluded villages.” The mare patted the bighorns flank and the beast slowly started pulling the cart. We kept pace with it.

“Greater risk, greater profit?” The griffin queried.

“Mhm. Not to say that I don’t stop by other places too. Sumaj, Isif, Navarost, Firth, Secress.” Navarost? I’ve seen a few caravans, but I don’t remember seeing her. Then again I never really paid much attention to the traders. Everything I bought was from Joram.

“Firth? Have you been there recently?” IronClaw continued to question the mare. Did he suspect that she was involved somehow?

“A week ago I believe.” Liris was thoughtful for a moment. “Yes a week ago. Why?”

“We just came from there. It’s been put to the torch.” IronClaw said as if it didn’t concern him in the slightest, but I could see him casting glances at the mare. Looking for a reaction.

Liris ‘s mouth hung open for a few moments. “How? When?”

“I don’t know. Could be Separatists, or raiders. Two or three days ago. The fires were still burning when we got there. No survivors.”

The mare shook her head sadly. “I. I had friends who lived there.” She hung her head low and continued walking beside the bighorn.

“I’m sorry.” IronClaw apologized before slowing down to walk with us, leaving the mare to brood alone.

“You think she has something to do with what happened there?” I asked in a hushed voice.

“No. I’ve seen ponies snap and go on a rampage before. I’ve no doubt as to what happened at Firth, but she might know something about the slavers though.” IronClaw turned to look me. “What do you think? Is she telling the truth?”

Umm well, she seemed sincere. Her surprise and grief looked genuine. “Yeah I think she was telling the truth, but…”

“But?” Those golden eyes kept studying me. IronClaw had an intimidating gaze, I can only imagine how his enemies felt when he stared them down.

“There is something about her. I can’t quite put my hoof on it, but there is more to her.” She has the look of a zebra that’s seen a lot. Not wise, just experienced.

IronClaw smirked. “Hmm, good instincts. She knows something alright, I might ask around about her. Can’t shake the feeling that I’ve seen her from somewhere before. Somewhere where a trader wasn’t supposed to be.”

Does he think she’s a spy? Or maybe she’s a smuggler and… What is that smell? The air smelled differently all of the sudden. It wasn’t a bad smell, just odd. I could taste it at the back of my throat, it was kind of invigorating to be honest.

“Mist! Look!” What? Cog was grinning from ear to ear and pointing with his hoof straight ahead.

I followed the hoof off to the horizon. “What am I supposed to be… Oh my.”

Still some distance away, but clearly visible, Vostoris rose before us. The clouds be damned, the massive metal walls of the city shone and reflected what little sunlight there was like mirrors. The city was a glorious silver crescent, its points piercing into the endless sapphire-blue of the sea that stretched out endlessly behind it.

My mane tingled, and I could feel the hairs of my coat standing on end. Vostoris wasn’t big, it wasn’t huge. It was beyond the scope of anything I could imagine, and the sea behind it. I finally got to see it. Unbidden a memory came to me. Amber. We were supposed to see it together. I felt something tighten in my chest.

“Hey Mist, you still with us?” A green hoof waved in front of me.

“Yeah Cog, I’m alright. Just a little overwhelmed.”

“Heh. I was speechless too when I first saw Vstoris. Quite the sight isn’t it.” Liris looked at me with a kind smile. I nodded back to her. It really is a wonder to behold, but then why do I feel like crying?

“Careful you don’t break your neck Mist.” Saw joked, but I couldn’t help it. The walls were so impossibly tall. They must be at least three times the size of Sumaj’s. This close I could see that the metal wasn’t in perfect shape.

The wall was badly scarred. I could make out where it had been assaulted. Large pony-sized holes, and some even bigger, were welded shut with different metals. It looked like an old crusted scab. There were also places where the metal was simply warped. There wasn’t a true hole, just a circular melted dark smudge.

My hoof went to my chest, to the place where those turrets hit me. The armor plate there was similarly warped. A shudder went through my body. Was there actually a magical energy weapon powerful enough to do this kind of damage? More importantly does it still exist, and who has it?

We continued moving to the gate of the city. I noticed shapes moving atop the ramparts, guards no doubt, and a pair of particularly fearsome looking turrets. They were far bigger than the ones I encountered.

The gate itself was as tall as the wall and half as wide. Why, in the name of Celestia, would anyone need a gate that big?

A loud groaning of metal echoed around us. Rather than the huge gate opening, a smaller door built in the main gate slowly creaked open. I said smaller door because compared to the gate it is, but it was actually the same size as Sumaj’s gate.

I counted at least fifteen guns greeting us when the door opened, probably half again that many that we couldn’t see. This is bad. What should I do? I turned to my friends. They didn’t seem concerned in the least.

A heavily armored zebra pushed past the guards that were pointing their rifles at us. “I apologize for the rough greeting, but all goods coming into Vostoris need to be cleared. Please direct your caravan to the right.” The zebra said looking at Liris. “I will also have to ask your guards to let us look through their belongings. This shouldn’t take more than a few minutes of your time.” He said in a professional tone pointing with a hoof to his left.

“But of course.” Liris nodded. “Come on boys. Te sooner we get this over with, the sooner I can pay you.” The bighorn slowly trudged through the gate and her hired guns went without complaint.

The zebra then looked us over before turning to IronClaw. “These ponies are with you?”

“Yes.” IronClaw answered disinterestedly, impatient to continue.

“Alright we have Talon company operatives coming in.” The zebra waved his hoof at the guards, they lowered their weapons and stepped aside.

“They don’t need to check us like the trader?” I asked Cog as we entered, still casting glances as the ridiculously armed welcome committee.

“Naw, the whole guard’s thing pointing weapons at us was pretty much just for show. I personally know a few guards here.” He turned his head, smiled and waved to one of the zebra guards who was putting his gun away. The zebra nodded and smiled back. “They need to check traders that are coming in though. They might be bringing in contraband.”

Really? They won’t allow certain items to be brought in? “What kind of contraband?”

“Eh, certain kinds of drugs, though for some reason you can still find them if you know where to look. You actually need a license to carry certain types of weapons around Vostoris, and other exotic items. Your cloak for instance.” My cloak? “Sure there are Remnant here, most of them don’t wear them, and those that do, keep them turned off. The Remnant needs to pay a fee for having them within the city.”

That’s stupid. “How would they know if some zebra was using it?” Is there a spell that disables them, like the one in Sumaj?” They could be cloaked and watching us right now.

“No, but this isn’t Sumaj, its Vostoris. Too many eyes. The local law enforcement starts getting reports of shimmers and bumping into thin air, and the Remnant could have an investigation on their hooves. Not to mention paying fines too.” Interesting.

“So why wasn’t I asked to pay for having one?” I’m glad I don’t have too, but I’m still curious as to why?

“I already told you. Talons have special privileges.” He said with a pleased grin.

I looked at my surroundings. Several small houses lined the entrance, and it would seem that all were occupied by guards. Every zebra was carrying a weapon. I was surprised to see a pony here and there. The sight was just so odd.

No shackles or any sign of being mistreated. Some were hauling ammo boxes. The worst thing about them was the bored expressions a few of them had.

“Mist, stay close and don’t wander off.” IronClaw said suddenly. Is he expecting trouble? Voices steadily grew louder. I gave my rifle a tug with my magic, ready to pull it out at a moment’s notice.

That was not what he meant however.

“Wow… So many zebras, and ponies too.” Once more I was struck speechless as I observed the crowds milling before us.

We were in the city proper now. The impossibly wide street that led from the gate spread out even more. Rows of houses were circularly positioned around us with numerous smaller streets between them. I could only spot three single-story houses, all the rest were three or four-stores tall, or even more than that. The homes were in surprisingly good shape. They had cracks, and paint was peeling off some of them, revealing bricks underneath. But all in all they weathered the passage of time quite nicely.

The din of countless voices washed over me. Zebras and ponies mostly moved in separate groups, but they mingled together too, and thank Celestia for that. The bright colors of ponies helped offset the dizzying mass of stripes.

“Hey Mist! Get your rump down here and stay close!” Saw shouted and waved at me. They had all walked away further down one of the streets while I gawked like an idiot.

“Sorry I was just overwhelmed.” I said and tried not to blush. This place is just so… new and big! Wow, that was eloquent.

“Yeah, yeah it’s big and there are a lot of ponies and zebras living here.” She said with a roll of her eyes and smiled. “Come on, let’s get this over with so we can get paid.”

Going down the street we found ourselves standing in front of a large building. Its walls were cracked with age, and there was a good deal of paint that had flaked off. A square black plank hung above the door. A white talon was painted over it. This must be the place.

Without knocking IronClaw pushed the door open, and we went inside.

The first thing I noticed were two well armed griffins standing at either side of the door. They looked bored, but one look at IronClaw had them immediately jumping up. They held their weapons across their chest, not pointed at us.

“At ease.” IronClaw said not bothering to look at them.

The room we entered was spacious. I noticed earth ponies and unicorns. Some of them were sitting on couches, others were playing cards on a table in the corner. Ponies and griffins were chatting idly, laughing, drinking, all around having a good time. The sight warmed my heart and made me smile.

“IronClaw! Damn! You sure are a sight for sore eyes. Good to have you guys back!” A cheerful voice exclaimed, and was that the sound of wings?

“Good to see you too Sky.” IronClaw grasped the outstretched hoof in his talon.

Oh my gosh! That’s a Pegasus!

The winged pony regarded me with a raised eyebrow. “What’s wrong with his jaw?”

Apparently my mouth was hanging open. Shrapnel put a hoof on my chin and closed it while giggling from behind her helmet.

“We haven’t met before, have we?” The Pegasus hovered in front of me extending a hoof. “The name is Skyfall, nice to meet you.” He said with a grin. The name was apt, seeing how he was completely blue. His coat was a dark shade of blue, while his mane was considerably lighter. It must be tough to spot him when he’s flying, especially on a clear day. I couldn’t see his cutie mark because of his armor. Pegasi have cuteimarks right?

I took his hoof and shook it. “Mist. Nice to meet you too.” A real Pegasus! I vaguely remember seeing a picture of one in a book. It was just a drawing, and in no way did it do justice. Actually seeing a pony with wings was amazing.

“Can you take them to medical? We had to deal with the pink gas, and a lot of other crap.” IronClaw asked the Pegasus. It was necromantic gas. What could they do about it?

“No problem, I’ll take care of it.” Sky looked IronClaw over. “Far be it for m to tell you what to do, but you should go yourself. You don’t look like your usual grim self.”

IronClaw looked at the Pegasus with contempt, raising an eyebrow.

“Aaaaaaand there we go. Back to making me shit myself grim.” Sky smiled weakly and rubbed the back of his head with a hoof.

“I plan to, as soon as I make my report to Razor.” IronClaw said, still looking at the Pegasus. He’s doing it on purpose, making him squirm. Another reason why I’m glad to be on the griffins side.

“Well she’s up in her office. Fair warning though, she’s been snapping her beak at everyone, and I think she hasn’t slept in days. Almost tore my head off when I suggested she take it easy and get some rest. Maybe you can talk some sense into her.” Sky pointed at a nearby staircase then landed beside us. “Alright let’s get you checked out.”

The Pegasus led us down a hall. The clean, sterile smell was the first thing I noticed. Why it made my skin itch, I had no idea. A unicorn mare in a white coat was sitting behind a desk, levitating a pencil above some papers. There were two more ponies moving about the room. One was carrying boxes to another who opened them and then proceeded to restock the shelves and cupboards with potions.

“Got a few patients coming in!” Sky announced cheerfully, to which the mare in the white coat simply rolled her eyes.

Shrapnel, Saw and Cog started taking off their gear and weapons. They placed them on the floor in three piles. I really didn’t like not having my weapons near, but I guess I won’t need them right now.

“Ughh. I hate those things.” Cog was glaring daggers at what appeared to be a large can.

“Wuss.” Saw said as she trotted up to the unicorn in the white coat. “Shrapnel and I just need a routine checkup, the two unicorns got gassed.”

“Alright, you two wait then.” She gestured to Saw and Shrapnel. “New recruit?” She asked looking at me, raising an eyebrow.

“Hello.” Why did I just wave my hoof like an idiot? “My name is Mist.” Shrapnel’s mannerisms must be rubbing off on me. Have to watch that.

“Tonic.” She nodded to me. “Well boys, who’s going to go first?”

“Might as well be me.” Cog grumbled and went over to the large metal can, the mare following close behind.

I noticed a terminal, hanging on one side of the machine. She tapped a few buttons and a panel on the can sunk in, then split into two and slid away. It was utterly dark inside. No wonder Cog didn’t like going in.

With a sigh and a curse Cog dragged his hooves into the thing. What happens in there? I took a few steps closer to it. The hatch slid back into place, trapping Cog inside.

“It’s a medical booth.” Tonic explained when she caught me giving the thing suspicious looks. I nodded to her, but continued to stare at it warily.”It’s an autonomous healing unit.” She said annoyed at my lack of knowledge.

Of course, how silly of me to not recognize it immediately. Obviously I have seen a healing can many times before. I even have on in my saddle bags. “There are probably only three or four of them in Zevrass.” She started stroking the thing lovingly. Alright, I’ll just take a few steps back now. “It’s a masterpiece of arcano-tech. Integrated with the most advance healing talismans ever created. It can bring a pony back from the brink of death!” She exclaimed proudly giving the can a tap with her hoof.

“It’s also expensive as Hell to maintain, and has knives and saws built into it for on the spot surgery. That’s why shits-his-barding over there, hates using it.” Saw said as she walked over to the two ponies that were unpacking medical supplies.

Well that sounds perfectly reasonable. I can’t imagine anypony liking being locked in a small dark box full of knives.

“But why do we have to go in that thing?” Tonic scowled at me for not addressing the machine with more respect. “We were exposed to necromantic gas. There is no cure for it, right?” Do they really have a way to treat it?

“It won’t cure the necromantic taint, but it will cleanse most of the body. The effects of the gas are cumulative, so if you are exposed to it again, without getting at least some of it cleansed, you’ll die a whole lot faster.” Tonic gave a sad sigh. “Even with the treatment the taint will still kill you. What remains in your bodies will eventually squeeze the life from you cells and organs.” She looked at me apologetically. I knew all too well what it can do. To think I would die just like Zaeryl. The gas must be affecting my mind too, because that last thought didn’t seem so bad to me.

The terminal flashed and beeped, once more the door to the booth sunk in and separated.

“Oh thank Celestia that’s over!” Cog jumped out and sighed with relief. He did look healthier than before. His coat was much brighter, and the way he carried himself was more surehoofed.

“You should go to the eggheads and have the data in your PipBuck downloaded.” The Pegasus said while hovering over to Cog. I had to admit I was just a tiny bit jealous of his ability to fly. If we were pegasi, we could have simply flown away from the Remnant. For a brief moment I imagined myself back at the slave convoy, only this time I was a Pegasus. I shook my head at how stupid I was. They would probably have cut my wings off, or shot me if I tried to fly away.

“Yeah, yeah I’m going. I know the drill.” Cog said as he trotted out of the room.

“Alright Mist, you’re next.” Tonic called out tapping the buttons on the terminal.

The darkness from within that thing made me hesitate. It couldn’t be that bad in there, could it?

“Just stand still and think of something else. Close your eyes if you think it might help.” Sky said and smiled reassuringly seeing my unease.

“There is nothing to worry about, you’ll be fine.” Saw assured me while she rummaged through one of the boxes of medical supplies. “Damn it Shrapnel! I told you to keep your armor’s potion stock full!” Saw scowled at Shrapnel while trotting up to her, holding many bottles in one hoof, close to her chest.

“Sorry Saw. I forgot.” Shrapnel said with a blush, then turned to me. “Yeah, you’ll be fine. It’s a little creepy, but nothing too bad.” Shrapnel smiled reassuringly. She managed to take off her helmet, and was now sitting patiently while Saw placed the potions she was carrying in a compartment on Shrapnel’s side.

I nodded to both of them, took a deep breath, and stepped inside.

When the doors closed shut behind me I was left in total darkness. So what happens now?

I could hear a faint hum from somewhere inside the machine. It was quickly followed by other more pronounced sounds. Clacking and buzzing came from all sides. I wanted to move and feel around for something, but they told me to be still. Also Saw said there were knives here and I didn’t want to impale myself.

Something started pressing on my body from all sides, it was like a blanket being slowly wrapped around me, but it felt alive and amorphous. Was this supposed to happen? My heart was beating faster. The sensation moved up to my head. I gasped then quickly snapped my mouth shut, and held my breath so I wouldn’t drown.

Something must have gone wrong. They’ll get me out before I run out of air… What if they don’t know what’s happening? Damn it! I have to calm down. I closed my eyes. Well at least I think I did, in pitch darkness there was no way to tell.

The mass started applying more pressure and heating up. It didn’t hurt, but it was the most bizarre feeling imaginable. What was this thing!?

My lungs started burning. This isn’t working. Damn it I’m getting out of here! I tried to move my hooves, but they were firmly planted on the floor. I couldn’t move! This was it, I was going to drown! On the list of ways I didn’t want to die, drowning was pretty high up in that order.

I tried using my magic to push the thing off me, but it was like trying to hit air. My magic couldn’t touch it.

I craned my neck up. Of course I couldn’t see anything, but the last time I was drowning the stars helped me. Now I was alone.

No way out. No way to save myself. I breathed out.

I’m sure I would have fallen right on my rump from the shock if I could move. When I breathed in I fully expected some sort of liquid to pour in, but it didn’t. I breathed in air as normally as ever. Well I’m definitely not telling anypony about this little incident. Cog and the others would probably laugh my cutie mark right off my flank if they found out.

A jolt ran the length of my spine. It sent a tingle through all my limbs. The mass that had cocooned my body was still there, but it was pulsating now, sending waves of heat through me. Each time it passed through my body I felt a little bit better. Aches and soreness subsiding.

After a while the machine went silent and stopped. The mass dissolved around me, leaving me feeling better than I’ve been in a long time, I even felt well rested.

Squinting at the sudden light I stepped out of the machine.

“You both are lucky to be alive. The dosage you got was high, but the duration of exposure was short.” Tonic said as she continued typing on the terminal. Good. Looks like they can’t see inside the booth. My dignity is safe.

“Well, we would have been dead if IronClaw hadn’t pulled us out from the cloud.” Cog said as he stretched lazily on a chair. He’s back? That was quick. I mean I’ve only been in the thing for a few minutes.

“And where is he?” Tonic asked annoyed.

“He’ll be down as soon as he reports to Razor.” Cog explained, then turned to me with a smile. “Come on Mist, time to meet the boss.” I followed Cog out with Shrapnel right beside me.

“’Where is Saw and Sky? For that matter where are our things?” Our guns and armor were gone, only our saddle bags remained. After constantly wearing my armor, being without it made me feel… naked. I know it makes no sense since ponies usually don’t wear anything.

“Sky had some business to take care of. Saw went to get hammered. Don’t worry about our things. I sent them to get repaired.” Cog said as we turned a corner.

“I’m probably going to have to reset the aim again.” Shrapnel sighed. “They repair team is good, but they never give me back my things the way they were.”

I looked at the pink mare, and realized that this is the first time I’ve seen Shrapnel out of her armor. I was surprised to learn that she wasn’t really that big. Shrapnel was just a bit taller than the average mare, but was normal in build. How does she manage to wear that heavy armor?

My eyes wondered to her flanks. Her cutie mark was that of an explosion, sending sharp bits of shrapnel flying everywhere. Truth be told, I kind of expected it, what with her wanting to blow up almost everything in sight.

“Mist. What are you looking at?” Cog asked me with a sly grin.

“Shrapnel’s cutie mark.” What’s so funny about that? I glanced at Cogs cutie mark. Two gears and a wrench between them. Well he is good at fixing things, sort of.

“Riiight, her cutie mark. Gotcha.” He winked at me and continued grinning. What’s his problem? I was just looking at her cutie mark… Oh for the love of Luna!

“It’s not like that!” I shouted at the green unicorn. He just snickered back.

“What are you two talking about?” Shrapnel asked confused.

“Oh Mist was just admiring your ‘cutie mark’.” Cog teased.

“Cog!” I yelled outraged. I could feel heat rising in my cheeks. Suddenly I realized why Saw always wants to kick Cog’s rump. He’s infuriating!

“That’s ok Mist. I like yours too.” Shrapnel said as she prodded my flank with a hoof. I jumped and squeaked at the unexpected contact. Cog was laughing now, not even bothering to hide his mirth. Jackass.

Halfway to Razors office we ran into IronClaw, his face grim. More grim than usual. I wonder if he ever just glowered his enemies to death. I sure he could do it.

“Is something wrong boss?” Cog asked finally overcoming his laughing fit.

“Trouble.” IronClaw answered. “Come on, she’s waiting to meet you.” He quickly ushered us into the office.

The room was full of old, dusty, worn out furniture, but everything was organized. Neat stacks of papers sat on the desk next to a terminal, filing cabinets lined one of the walls, a couch and two chairs were placed so that they faced the desk. Behind the desk sat a griffin, a female griffin.

“I’m captain RazorWing. IronClaw has told me a lot about you Mist.” The griffin regarded me with the same piercing gold eyes like IronClaw, but there was something different in those eyes. IronClaw had a cold determined look, she didn’t lack the determination, but unlike IronClaw’s cold gaze, her eyes had a fire behind them.

She wasn’t at all what I expected. She was younger than IronClaw, but nowhere near less fierce. The armor that she wore was also strange. Grey-green in color, with a white talon painted on the chestplate, like the one the other griffins and some ponies had on their armor. What really set her armor apart was its design.

It had a high neck collar and overlapping plates that went from under her shoulder pads to cover her forelimbs to her elbows. Her talons were also covered by protective bracers, only her digits were left bare. On her forehead, above her eyes, she wore glasses. Unlike normal reading glasses these were slanted and made so that once worn over the eyes they could completely cover them, even from the sides. I guess you could call them goggles, not glasses. Tiny green lights could be seen in the corners of the dark tinted glass. Instead of plastic that goes behind the ears, hers were strapped on by a band that went around her head. A wire from one side connected the glasses to her armor. They were some kind of arcano-tech device for sure.

IronClaw was called that for obvious reasons, and now I knew why she was called RazorWing. Both of her wings were lined with a razor sharp metal plate that split into three pieces, allowing her to fold her wings while she still wore the terrifying blades. If she were to spread her wings, the three part blade on each wing would snap together to form a terrifying edge.

While I continued to gawk like a moron she continued. “You are a capable unicorn. We could use somepony like you.” I opened my mouth, but she raised a talon cutting me off. “IronClaw has already told me of your conditions. I can’t promise you that we won’t be working for the Remnant. I have no love for them, but the simple truth is we need the caps. Business has been slow lately, it might be picking up soon, but that’s uncertain and I have a company to maintain.” She leveled me with a stern look. Maybe she was expecting me to throw a fit or something.

I can’t argue with that, and I won’t hold it against her. She has her own concerns to deal with. At least she’s being civil about it. Razor opened a drawer of her desk, she pulled out a clicking sac and tossed it to me.

I caught it with my magic. It was full of caps.

“Too bad you’re not one us, I could have paid you more.” She said with a smirk. I just shrugged. I wasn’t in it for the money anyway. IronClaw helped me save those ponies back at Sumaj, that’s the only reason I decided to help them.

Razor’s eyebrows rose in surprise. “Perhaps it’s for the best. You’re not mercenary enough to be working for us it seems.” For someone who was trying to sound disappointed she sure was smiling a lot.

She rubbed her beak thoughtfully. “How about an honorary membership?”

“A what?” I thought you were either with them, or you weren’t.

“You’ll get a discount when you buy from us, and if you ever need caps I’m sure we can find you the occasional odd job. The pay isn’t exactly good, but the jobs aren’t that difficult either. The important thing is you get to choose which contract you want to take. Sound fair?” She looked at me expectantly.

Fair? Why is she even offering? She paid me already. “Sure. Thank you.” It’s good to have somewhere to look for work if I’m ever in need of caps.

Razor brightened at my answer, and I couldn’t help but notice a ghost of a smile on IronClaws beak. Was this his doing? Why?

“Hooray!” Shrapnel exclaimed and tackled me. “You’re one of us now! Well an honorary member, but that still counts!”

“Ah-hem.” Cog coughed as he stepped up to the desk. “About that time off…” He tilted his head and gave the griffin his brightest smile. Razor just stared back at him unimpressed.

“You have three days, but if something comes up I want your flank back here.” RazorWing said picking up a clipboard and dismissively waving us out with a talon.

We were just outside of the room when the griffiness called out. “And IronClaw, get your tail down to medical.” Cog and Shrapnel both looked up at IronClaw and grinned. He just rolled his eyes.

“Stay out of trouble.” The metal-taloned griffin said as he walked past us.

“Where to now?” I asked Shrapnel and Cog.

“First we get our stuff, and then I have some errands to run. You can come too. After that we’ll have some fun!”

“Yay fun!” Shrapnel hopped in delight.

Geared up and ready we sat out for the market. My weapons were in good condition, the only thing that needed mending was my armor. They fixed the holes and cuts, but had to replace the right shoulder plate with an edged steel one. It looked strange since it was grey as opposed to the black of my armor, but protection is protection. I’m not complaining.

Cog was back in his stable barding and Shrapnel was fully armored as well.

Shrapnel and I pushed through the masses of pony and zebra as we followed Cog. I had to dodge and weave while Shrapnel was given a wide berth. The crowds only grew thicker as we made our way to the markets.

My nose was assaulted by a variety of different smells. The salty sea air, spices, rusty metal, incense… And all of this was followed by a loud clamor of so many ponies and zebras going about their daily lives.

It was dizzying, and once again I found my senses overwhelmed. How could anyone stand this for an entire day?

We stopped by a cart where a zebra was busy unloading his wares and setting them up on his stand.

“Hey! You striped bastard!” Cog shouted suddenly. Damn it, what’s he doing? We’ve barely been out fifteen minutes and he’s already starting trouble.

The zebra turned to face him. To my surprise he grinned. “Cog! I guess it was too much to hope that you got killed.” Cog and the zebra bumped hooves. “And who are your friends?” The zebra asked, looking over Cog’s shoulder.

“The mare in armor is Shrapnel.” Cog pointed to her.

“Hi!” Shrapnel waved her signature cheery greeting.

“And the unicorn is Mist.” Cog said pointing to me.

“It is very nice to meet you both. You can call me Mikah.” The zebra said and gave us a little bow.

“How are the kids?” Cog asked smiling.

“They are well, thank you for asking. Mischievous little things though.”

Cog looked at the things the zebra was selling. “Business not going well, since when do you trade in food and knickknacks? Didn’t you make a nice profit with the stuff I helped you sell?”

“Since I got robbed.” Mikah sighed. ”It’s just not safe for me to sell weapons and gems anymore, not without a proper store and security.”

I looked around at the rest of the market. There weren’t all that many merchants selling guns. Most of them sold food, clothing, tools and other utilities. Those that did sell weapons had armed guards keeping a watchful eye on the buyers.

“It’s those damn Vipers. Have you heard lately what they have been up to? They are protesting to end servitude. They have even gone as far as to attack a councilor!” Servitude? “A bunch of thieves and assassins the lot of them. The only ones they stay away from are the Remnant and Separatists. Of course everyone stays away from them.” Mikah said heatedly.

“Wow, wow, slow down. Assassinations? What exactly have we missed?” Cog tried to calm the zebra down.

“It’s all getting worse by the day. The Remnant is pushing from one side, the Separatists from the other, and now we’ve got the Vipers wreaking chaos!” Mikah said exasperated.

“Who are the Vipers, what is the Remnant doing and what is this about servitude?” I don’t like the sound of any of this.

“The Vipers are a group of zebras. Like Mikah said, thieves and murderers. Lately they have been more active. Vostoris has the largest stockpile of gems in Zevrass, and the largest concentration of unicorns. That’s where the Remnant and Separatist interest comes from. They are constantly pushing to buy more and more. But what I don’t get is why the Hell would the Vipers be against servitude? It doesn’t affect them.” Cog tapped his chin thoughtfully.

Gems? Yes that would have the Remnant and Separatists interested. “What’s this servitude you’re talking about?”

Cog looked at me as if he wanted to say something, but hesitated.

“Ponies or zebras who are unable to pay their debts can go into servitude.” Mikah cut in.

Slaves?! Here! I took a few steps towards the zebra. He looked at me confused. “You mean to tell me there is slavery here. Here in Vostoris! The city that’s supposed to be safe for ponies.” What kind of damn hypocrisy is this?

“I. It’s not like that.” Mikah stammered and backed away from me.

“Easy Mist, it’s not slavery, it’s voluntary.” Cog stepped in front of me. He put a hoof on my shoulder, pushing me back slightly.

Why would anypony want to be a servant? “Explain.” I asked the zebra.

“Those who can’t pay their debts can choose to go into servitude to work off the caps they owe. Even zebras do this.” Mikah hesitated a moment before adding. “Although rarely. Ponies are the ones that usually choose to be servants.” Oh course they do. They don’t have a lot of choice now do they? The zebra flinched for a moment, expecting an explosive response from me. I kept my head. “You must understand that this is best for all. Those less fortunate can work off their debts and everybody is happy. It is better than jail.”

Oh I understand. Everyone is equal, but some are more equal than others. Ponies are still treated as second class citizens. At least it’s a step up from slavery. I should take solace where I can get it I suppose.

Mikah fidgeted and refused to meet my eyes, luckily Cog ended the awkwardness. They said their farewells and we left.

We pushed our way out of the market, and into less crowded streets. Everypony now drew my attention. A mare passed in front of us pulling a cart. Was she too working off some debt?

“Mist, are you okay?” Shrapnel asked quietly walking up to me.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” I’m just tired. Tired of this constant hate and distrust between ponies and zebras. I stopped to look at another couple of ponies as they passed by. “How does this debt thing work?”

“Well, you can take out loans from Vostoris itself. If you need money to get by, or start a business. You have to pay them back of course.” Cog said as he stepped beside me to look at the ponies. “Most zebras that live here have family businesses, so they just pass their jobs down within their family. Ponies that come here are usually refugees, and they don’t have a cap to their names. It’s really not so bad.”

He pointed at a nearby shop with his hoof. “See. Not all are there as servants. Those ponies over there were hired to work. They make wages. The Talons hire who they can, but not many want to work as mercenaries. I think it’s the ‘getting shot at’ part of the job that scares them off.”

“How do you know Mikah? What stuff did you help him sell?” The thought suddenly popped into my head as we continued moving.

I had no idea where we were going. Cog was leading us down a street at a leisurely pace. “Oh, him. He’s alright. Doesn’t care what you are, he’ll still trade with you fairly. I met him in the pony district while I was rounding up some of our guys for a contract.” There is a pony district now? I’m curious to see just what it looks like. Then again I might not want to know. So much for equality. Even in a ‘civilized’ town as this, they still keep us separate.

“What’s wrong now?” Cog asked.

“What?”I didn’t say anything.

“You’re scowling like IronClaw.”

What? Am not! “You said they have a pony district here?”

“Yeah they do. It’s north-east and-“ He sighed. “Look it’s not like it’s some kind of slum or anything. It’s a nice district. Good homes, same as here.”

“And the zebras just let them live there?” There has to be more to this.

“Of course they do.” Shrapnel cut in. “They have to pay rent, but zebras pay it too. It’s called something else though.” She tapped her helmet where her chin should be. “Tax! Yeah they pay a tax. And those caps pay for security and most of our contracts.”

“As I was saying.” Cog continued, not losing a beat. “I was in the pony district rounding up our guys, when a couple of zebras were trying to beat up one of their own. I wasn’t really sure what was going on so I called a few of the guards to sort it out. Later to thank me, we had a few drinks and Mikah explained how he had stumbled on a small box full of gems.”

Cog reared up on his hind legs, and spread his forehooves a bit wider than his shoulders. “The box was about this big.” He said before plopping down back onto all fours. “Nothing special, but still worth a small fortune. The problem is you can’t really sell gems without a license. It’s all strictly controlled. So, I helped him sell it to the Talons, we kept some for ourselves and sold the rest back to the city.”

“Where did the gems come from?” Zevrass is naturally poor in gems, it makes sense that they want to keep tight control over its distribution. I had a pretty good idea of what ‘stumbling’ on a box full of them meant.

“From the city of course.” Cog grinned. “Maybe someone had planned to steal it then forgot about it. I don’t know. Vostoris has the largest harbor, before the war, while ponies and zebras were still on good terms. Vostoris was the main center of trade. Then Equestria started raising prices and stopped delivering gems that were already paid for.” Really? I tilted my head and raised an eyebrow at the green unicorn. Cog grinned sheepishly. “Well at least that’s what the zebras say. I’m sure it was partly their fault too.”

I scratched my head. “But Mikah sold them. Why didn’t he buy a proper store?”

“Dunno. My guess would be he had a few debts to pay off himself.”

“Guys! Trouble.” Shrapnel hissed and motioned with her head towards three figures, wearing sky-blue cloaks.

Remnant. I reached out to my rifle with my magic. Before I could raise it a green hoof pressed it back beneath my cloak.

“Cog! What are you doing?!” I turned to the green unicorn.

“They won’t start a fight. Not here with so many around.” His face was set into a scowl as he watched the cloaked zebras approach.

I looked around without turning my head. There were many zebras and ponies still going about their business, but we started drawing attention to ourselves and now the bystanders were slowly dispersing. They know trouble when they see it.

I turned my full attention back at the Remnant. I could feel something tightening in my chest. My magic was still wrapped around my rifle.

The three zebras came to a stop some three meters in front of us. Good. At this distance even if they decide to go hoof to hoof, I can see it coming. I can’t measure up to a zebra that’s had a lifetime of training, but I should be able to hold my own. A bead of sweat trickled down my cheek.

Fortunately they are lightly armored, so Shrapnel should be able to take them out without too much trouble. The real problem is making sure they don’t get to Cog.

I could only see their muzzles sticking out from the shade their hoods provided. Their lips were relaxed, neither smiling nor scowling, but I was certain they were glaring daggers from beneath their hoods.

“You.” The zebra in the middle stated imperiously while pointing a hoof at me, speaking in Equestrian for my benefit no doubt.

Shit! No wait! This could work. That’s right, keep all your attention on me. I took a step forward and was about to open my mouth when the same zebra cut me off.

“Where did you get that cloak and armor?” My mouth clicked shut. They were only interested in my armor and cloak? Again not waiting for an answer the leader continued. “Give us the cloak.”

“No.” What am I, an idiot? Do I want to get killed? Despite my rash response, I don’t think the answer would have been any different if I had stopped to think about it. This cloak was Zaeryl’s, and there is no way I’m giving it to them.

“It does not belong to you. It belongs to the Remnant.” Bad choice of words. I felt heat rising in my chest. I wanted to shout, to scream at them. Raising my rifle was just one flick of magic away. I did neither of these things.

Belongs to the Remnant? Like the ponies they keep as slaves? Like I used to ‘belong’ to them? They can have the cloak, once they take it off my corpse.

In a perfectly even tone, not letting any emotion color my words I spoke. “I found this cloak, it’s mine now, and I have no intention of giving it to anyone.”

The zebras remained still. Their faces betraying no emotion. Damn, I wanted to see them angry right now.

The leader raised a hoof and tucked it underneath his cloak. Shit. Not sure what to expect I widened my stance a little, and reaffirmed my magic’s grip on my rifle.

The zebra pulled out a large sack. “We are willing to pay considerably for you to reconsider.” He stated flatly.

What? So now they want to buy it? Well I wasn’t expecting that. Judging by the size of the bag there must have been a few hundred caps in there, maybe more.

“It’s not for sale.” There weren’t enough caps in the world.

“You would be wise to reconsider. It’s not healthy to make an enemy of the Remnant.” The zebra stated coldly, still holding the caps.

“You got a hearing problem? He said it’s not for sale.” Cog growled.

“I think you should go.” Shrapnel added in a serious tone. She could be very threatening when she wanted to.

I wanted to hug them both right now. I was essentially putting all of our lives at risk. They didn’t need to stick their necks out like that. I wouldn’t part with my cloak for my own life, but I would have done it for theirs.

To the Remnants credit they were disciplined. I don’t think many could have stood firm with an angry, heavily armed and armored mare towering before them. Grenade launcher and machine gun ready for use.

“What’s going on here?” I didn’t even notice the six zebra that were standing to our left. Their weapons were aimed at both us and the Remnant. Two of them wore harnesses similar to Shrapnel’s, large caliber guns at either side with a bit that went up to their muzzles.

“Just an unsuccessful transaction.” The Remnant leader said without even bothering to look at the guard. He put the sac of caps away behind his cloak. “If you change your mind come to our embassy, the offer still stands.” He said to me before turning around walking away with the other two flanking him.

“I’m still waiting for that explanation.” The guard asked me, his irritation clearly showing. So he’s having a bad day and it’s my fault now?

“They wanted me to sell them my cloak, I refused.” Really was he expecting me to lie, or did he think the Remnant were lying?

The guard shook his head. “Stupid. You should have sold it. You like putting your life on the line, or are you just crazy? I should have you all arrested.”

“Hey relax. We weren’t starting any trouble, they were. Besides we’re Talon Company.” Cog said raising his voice. He was pissed, and still on edge from our little encounter with the Remnant.

“I don’t give a shit that you work for the council’s pet merc band, that doesn’t put you above the law!” The zebra stomped his hoof angrily.

“It does if the ‘law’ is nothing but one-sided crap. What?! We get a friggin dressing down and you just watched with your tail between your legs as the Remnant walked away?” Cog shouted back.

The zebra took a few steps forward and now was exchanging glares with Cog. The rest of the guards looked uncertainly at each other, their weapons still aimed at us. I sighed. We didn’t just get away without a shootout, just to have one with the local guards.

I approached them both. The zebra guards had their guns pointed at me, and watched me like I was going to start blowing things up by simply walking.

“Look we didn’t mean to cause any trouble. I’m sorry, we’ll be on our way now.” Some of the tension left the zebras face, but he was still pissed off. Cog looked ready to argue some more, but I cut him off with a shove and a look.

“Yeah, go on, beat it. I got a job to do.” The zebra motioned with his head and the other guards went with him, a few still glanced back at us as if expecting us to shoot them in the back.

“Nice work Mist.” Shrapnel said patting me on the shoulder. Cog was muttering to himself. Something about that guard cleaning toilets.

I felt something cold land on my nose. I looked up and saw thick black clouds. It started raining. Perfect.

I pulled my hood up as we hurried down a street, trying to find shelter from the downpour. At least Cog had cooled off, though now he was whining about the rain. I was worried that Shrapnel’s suit might rust, but she told me that her armor is coated and that it doesn’t rust easily. Is there anything that armor can’t do? I mean it can even repair itself. Why doesn’t everyone have a suit like that? Well you’d probably have to be really strong to carry it.

“Cog, where are we going?!” I asked, shouting a little. It was hard to hear over the shouts of others who were also trying to get out of the rain.

“To a friend’s house!” He yelled back.

“Mikah?”

“No, somepony else! Just have one more thing to take care of. I just hope she isn’t still pissed.” Cog smiled uncertainly.

“And why would she be angry with you?” This was getting ridiculous. Is there anypony that’s not mad at Cog for one reason or another?

“I kind of ran off without paying for something.”

What? He stole something? I turned to look at him, my mouth hanging open in outrage. Cog’s ears flattened and he blushed.

“It’s not like I did it on purpose. I got called on a contract and it slipped my mind.” He shrugged, still grinning, embarrassed.

I sighed and rolled my eyes. Damn. I had really hoped to avoid getting a headache today.

“What exactly did you take without paying?” I asked and he pointed at me with a hoof. Huh? What’s that supposed to mean?

“The brooch I gave you. I took three of them, and they are about two hundred caps each.” He said as he tried to shake the water off his mane.

He basically stole six hundred caps worth of merchandise. You know what, I’m just going to let this mare smack him. He deserves it.

In a place where ponies are barely scraping by, he goes around heedless to their plight and just forgets to pay? I wanted to smack the idiot myself.

We rounded a few corners until we ended up in front of a shop. Its white walls were old and cracked like most of the other building we had seen. In addition there were metal bars on the windows, most likely put there to deter thieves.

Cog pushed the door open, and we clambered inside unceremoniously, nearly tripping over each other.

A zebra in leather armor regarded us suspiciously. Once he realized we weren’t here to cause trouble he went back to leaning against a wall. “Customers!” He shouted sounding bored, and started looking out through a window.

The store clearly belonged to someone who took pride in keeping everything neat and tidy. As for the items that were being sold. They had a wide selection of armors, and even a few weapons.

“Welcome, welcome. Please take a look, I’m sure you’ll find something that interests you.” An elderly zebra mare spoke as she trotted out one of the rooms, and went to stand behind the counter.

I thought he said he bought the brooches from a pony?

Cog went up to her, scratching the back of his head nervously. “I umm. I bought a few things here last time I was in the city, and I sort of… forgot to pay.” The zebra raised an eyebrow at that, and looked contemptuously at him.

Cog fidgeted nervously at the scrutiny. Well he certainly deserves it. If he caused that mare to lose her job then I really am going to beat some sense into him.

“You have come to pay what is owed?” The zebra asked in an even tone. Cog gulped, nodded and stepped up to the counter. Caps exchanged hooves.

“Umm is she still here?” Cog asked the zebra, she just nodded.

“She is in the back room working. I never doubted that she stole from me. I know my employees, and she is an honest pony.” The zebra nodded to herself, pride shoving clearly on her face. “You can go and apologize to her if you want, but be careful. She was very upset when she told me what you had done.”

“Oh… well I wouldn’t want to interrupt her while she’s working.” Cog said forcing a smile. “Besides, we have a lot of work to do.” He pointed to Shrapnel and me.

“Huh?” Shrapnel tilted her head. “What are you talking about? We have three days off.” She offered helpfully. I just grinned. Oh he isn’t getting off that easily.

“Yeah Cog, we’ve got time. Go. We will look around the store for a bit.” I said, shooing him with a hoof. He gave me a pleading look.

No way. You’re going. Cog is nowhere near as good as Shrapnel when it came to the big eyed sad look.

Cog hung his head and dragged his hooves as he went to the back room. You’d think he was going to his execution. I mean come on, how bad could it be?

“Ooooo! Shiny!” Shrapnel exclaimed while pocking at a polished… something. I had no idea what it was. Some kind of arcano-tech maybe.

I went over to the zebra behind the counter. “Do you sell ammunition?”

“Only very basic types. What kind do you need?” The zebra asked me, leaning over the counter a little. My guess, she was trying to see what kind of weapons I was carrying. She could only see my pistol because it was holstered on my chest, the sniper and rifle I kept under my cloak.

While I explained what caliber I needed, I remembered something I had picked up several days ago.

“Do you know what kind of bullet this is?” I levitated out one of the bullets Cog and I found at Prometheus.

The zebra picked it up in her hoof and brought it close to her muzzle. Her face scrunched up in thought. “I have never seen a bullet like this. Where did you say you found it?”

At a secret Separatist facility where they were developing megaspells. “In some rubble on my way here along with some ordinary ammo and a few caps. It looked valuable.” I shrugged and lied.

“If I had to guess, I would say that it is a sniper round. Look at this.” She pointed to the blue lines that spiraled around the bullet. “This looks like sapphire dust.”

I looked at the bullet skeptically. Why would anyone use powdered gems to decorate bullets? I suppose if you were particularly vain, you would want to have decorated bullets, but honestly. Who would be rich enough to do that? Especially considering how rare gems were in Zevrass.

“Yes it is sapphire dust, but I’m not sure what kind of enchantment it carries.” Enchantment? That got my attention. “You can ask my assistant if you like, and check on your friend. She knows more about enchantments than me.”

Sure, why not. Am I a bad pony for wanting to see Cog grovel? Naww, he had it coming.

Muffled voices got clearer and louder when I opened the door and went into the back room. As I entered the first things that could be seen were the various tools hanging on the walls, all neatly arranged. On a table, right below the tools, there was a disassembled magical energy rifle with a few gems lying beside it. I never knew it had so many pieces. The mare working on it must be very skilled.

“No, you don’t know! I could have lost my job!”

I turned to my right, expecting to see the mare that was shouting, but my view was obstructed by shelves. I only managed to see two vague pony shapes between the various tools and items that were on the shelves. The mare wasn’t really shouting, just talking really loud.

“I know. Look I paid her, and nothing bad happened. She said it herself that she never suspected you.” That would be Cog pleading and hoping that he doesn’t get a hoof to the face. I couldn’t help grinning.

“That’s not the point!” Okay, now she was shouting. Why did her voice sound familiar?

Well time to save Cog’s sorry rump.

I stepped around the shelves. Cog was backed up into a wall while the mare stared him down. “What if she wasn’t so understanding? What if you had done it to somepony else? Do you know what that could mean for them?” The mare continued in an agitated tone.

“Excuse me.” I said cutting her off. The moment she turned to face me, my mind went blank.

Was she a ghost? Was I dreaming? That blond mane and dark brown coat. It can’t be. If this was a dream then I’m sure it will turn into a nightmare the second I try and do something, the moment I hope that I could change something. My heart thundered in my chest, and my mouth felt dry. Please Celestia don’t let this be a dream.

The mare tilted her head a little and glared suspiciously at me.

“Amber?” I asked barely above a whisper. Hoping, praying.

She slowly nodded. “Do I know you?” She looked me over from head to hoof before her eyes came to rest on my own. Her glare slowly melted away, replaced by surprise, uncertainty and… fear?

“Mist?” She asked cautiously. I nodded, unable to say anything or move any other part of my body.

I’m not sure what exactly happened, but I was sitting on my haunches, we both were, while we hugged and cried into each other’s manes.

“I thought you were dead!” She wailed. I buried my face into her mane and hugged her tighter, while she sobbed and shook.

This isn’t a dream. This is real! I. I can’t believe it. She’s alive! Oh thank you Celestia and Luna! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

When I opened my eyes I noticed faces staring at us. Seems we drew a crowd. Slowly we parted and wiped our tears. Amber looked at me, her eyes red from crying, her mane a mess and just a tiniest bit of snot on her nose before she wiped it away with a hoof. She smiled. Celestia I missed that smile.

I felt like I found a part of myself. A part that I lost long ago. I wasn’t alone anymore. True I made new friends, but I had known Amber since foalhood. The only happy part of my life when I was little was Amber, and now she’s back! The small room was suddenly full. Shrapnel and the zebra mare had come in to see what was going on. I felt like crying some more, but the others would probably like some answers, seeing how they were confused and staring at us.

“Hmmm. I’m going to go out on a limb here and guess that you two know each other?” Wow, your skills of observation are astounding Cog.

I nodded smiling while rubbing my eyes. “She’s my sister.”

Dead silence and shocked faces.

“Drat!” Shrapnel stomped a hoof angrily. “I knew I should have asked you if you had a sister or a brother. Do you have a brother? Or another sister? How about grandparents? A pet?”

I just looked at the armored mare and couldn’t suppress a giggle. Did she think that I hadn’t told her about Amber just because she didn’t ask? So she is going to ask me every possible question about my family now?

“No.” I shook my head. “Only Amber.” I turned to look at the mare in question. “It’s good to see you again. I can’t tell you how much I’ve missed you.”

“Awwww. It’s good to see you too Misty.” She tussled my mane fondly. Well it’s good to know that something’s never change.

The shop’s owner, Nisi, closed early and herded us all upstairs. I overheard the guard asking if she wanted him to stay overnight in case we caused trouble. She politely declined his offer. No way were we going to cause problems for Amber’s boss. No way that I would allow it.

The top floor consisted of two rooms. One larger, where we were right now, and a smaller one where Amber stayed. I was relieved to learn that. Despite what Cog said, I still couldn’t think of the pony district being anything more than some rundown part of the city, which was given to ponies simply to have them conveniently in one place. Maybe I’m being too cynical.

I sat between Amber and Shrapnel on the couch, Cog took one of the chairs and Nisi took the other once the tea was prepared.

“So who is going to start?” Nisi asked looking from me to Amber.

I desperately wanted to find out what happened to Amber, and she was also full of questions for me. Nisi was very interested in hearing Ambers story too. Interesting how Nisi hired Amber without knowing about her past. When I asked her she said that someone’s past is important, but not as important as their present and future. To her Amber was a good pony, a pony that’s been through tough times, and a pony that needed help. She didn’t pry into Ambers past, but she can’t resist a good story.

Nisi wanted to hear Amber, but the others wanted me to go first. The votes were three against two.

“Alright then I’ll go first.” I took a deep breath and began my tale. I had to say the atmosphere for story telling was apt. The room was bathed in a dim light provided by one of the lamps, the gentle falling of the rain outside set a relaxing mood.

Recalling that horrible night was not pleasant, but luckily I was surrounded by friendly faces and kind eyes, and I found the strength to push through.

Amber was visibly shaken, the memory of the event fresh in her mind as well. Shrapnel, who had taken off her helmet so that she could drink, had a sad downcast look. Cog just sipped his tea quietly while Nisi shook her head sadly.

Once I got to the part of almost drowning Amber hugged me tightly, and for a moment I thought she was going to cry again, but she kept her tears at bay. The part where Zaeryl saved me drew Nisi’s attention. I paused, expecting questions from her, but she just waited patiently for me to continue.

I went on about the less interesting part now. The normal happy part where nothing life threateningly happened, while I studied with Zaeryl. The mention that I was learning to be a shaman caused Nisi to nearly spill her tea, but she quickly regained her composure. Thank Luna she didn’t start fawning over me. I was no shaman.

I skipped the part where I almost got killed in the jungle, and the details of my trip to Sumaj. I wrapped up my story with joining up with the Talons to help ponies escape from the Remnant, and finished with saying how I wasn’t supposed to talk about our mission. Cog backed me up on that. I was really glad I had something to drink, after all that talking my throat was dry. Mmmm… Fruity.

“And I thought your tale to be less interesting.” The zebra shook her head. “Thank you for sharing young shaman.” Nisi said. I was just about to open my mouth to protest when Shrapnel cut me off.

“What’s the big deal with shamans? No offence Mist.” Don’t worry about it, I’m not a shaman. I never completed my training. I opened my mouth to say something when she continued. “I mean I know they’re super smart and can do a ton of neat stuff, but why are they so important to zebras?” Shrapnel pushed on, ignoring me.

Nisi decided to answer her question. “Shamans are amongst the wisest of the zebras.” Yep, that’s me. Super wise. Did I tell you about the time I almost blew my leg off when I stepped on a mine? “They are our spiritual and moral leaders. Without their guidance the Free Tribes wouldn’t even exist. After the war, while the Remnant and Separatists continued destroying and killing, the shamans helped us rebuild and thought us true zebra values.”

Shrapnel tapped her chin. “But the council zebras aren’t shamans, right? Why not have shamans in charge?”

“Because shamans are teachers and advisors, not rulers.” Nisi said with a smile. “Shamans hold a great deal of respect for individual freedoms. If you need help, they will help you, but otherwise they prefer to not get involved in politics.”

Shrapnel scrunched up her face for a moment before nodding and smiling, apparently satisfied with the answer.

“Now Amber, if you would?” Te zebra motioned to Amber with a hoof. Yes, I was curious to hear her story too.

“Well since Mist already told us about what happened the night of the attack I’ll start from what I did when we got separated.” Amber took a moment and closed her eyes to gather her thoughts.

“When it happened. When the tank exploded.” Amber shuddered. I put a hoof on her shoulder and smiled at her, trying to be as reassuring as possible. She returned the smile and continued. “The explosion scared a few of the foals, and they ran away from the group. I tried to follow them, tried to shout for them to stay out of the jungle. They couldn’t hear a thing over the noise. I kept following the main road.” She shook her head as tears formed in her eyes. “I only found three of them. Two fillies and a colt. I was scared to go into the jungle to find the others. If I wasn’t such a coward maybe I could have saved more of them?” She said bitterly, shaking her head.

Coward? She went after the other foals to save them. What did I do? I just watched my parents get killed and I ran off. She was brave and amazing! No I won’t let her beat herself up about this.

I pulled Amber in for a hug. “Listen to me. What you did was incredible. What happened wasn’t your fault. You did more than anypony could have. You saved those foals.”

Amber calmed down a little, but I could see that she didn’t agree with me. She snorted and looked away. “Yeah, saved them.”

Something tightened in my stomach. Damn them. Damn the Remnant and damn the Separatists for putting her through that. For putting both of us through that. We’re scared for life. I wonder if she has nightmares like I do? I hope she doesn’t. She deserves a better life, a better world to live in. I realized that my teeth were clenched shut when my jaw started to ache.

Amber continued her story, and somehow I knew it was going to get worse.

“It was almost dawn by the time we got back. There were zebras there, and they were… They were killing the survivors.” She said gulping. Her eyes were staring at the floor. I wanted to tell her to stop. She doesn’t have to keep hurting herself, but she continued before I could voice my concerns. “They were killing everyone, the Remnant, the Separatists... And we. I walked us right up to them. They were slavers. The first thing they did was put us in chains.” Without realizing it, her hoof reached up to her throat. There was no mark on it, no signs, but I could almost see the chains digging into her neck.

I felt a chill from somewhere inside me. It was like the one I felt when I shot that zebra slaver. Was she there? Did she put a collar on Amber? Probably not, but I felt the same cold fury grip me like it did when I ended the slavers and the mad ponies life. I did the right thing. They deserved to die.

“They shot the ponies that couldn’t walk.” She looked up at me, tears flowing freely down her face. “I saw our parents. I thought they killed them. I should have gotten there sooner. Maybe there was something I could have done. Anything!” She looked up at me, her lips quivering as she whispered. “And I thought they killed you. I was certain they had.” She hugged herself and I wrapped my hooves around her, cradling her, like she used to cradle me when I was little and got scared.

“I wanted them to kill me too. I thought then maybe we would all be together again with Celestia.” My heart was breaking. How many times had I thought of the exact same thing?

“They led us from village to village. Trying to sell us. They sold one of the fillies first. I cried and screamed. They can’t just sell us. They don’t know if they’ll take care of her. I can still see her frightened eyes. She was younger than us, and had no idea what was going on. They just beat me for talking back to them. I wanted to die. Oh dear Luna I wanted to die.” Amber whispered, and I just wanted to find the ones responsible.

“We traveled for a few months after that. They sold me next. The colt tried to protect me. They beat him bloody, maybe even killed him.” Amber grew still for a moment, her eyes seemed to have lost all life. “I was sold to a zebra who had his own stock which he sold to the Remnant or the Separatists. He-He was.” Amber started shaking violently. She buried her muzzle in my mane, her voice breaking. “He was breeding ponies like-like animals. And he-he… Did things… to me. Then gave me to the ponies.” Still holding her, she felt so fragile, I dared not let her go. I was scared she’d fall apart.

Shrapnel gasped, Cog cursed. Nisi just hung her head. Tears were streaming down the old zebras face.

The tightness in my chest snapped.

“Do you know where he lives? What is his name?” I asked in a voice so unnaturally calm it surprised me.

Amber just shook her head. “We just called. We just called him master. I can’t remember where. I just can’t.” She continued sobbing, hugging me tightly. I sighed and held on to her. The cold I felt passed and now I felt only sorrow.

Nisi approached and laid a hoof on Ambers shoulder. ”He can’t hurt you anymore. You are safe now, among friends and family.” The zebra said in a calm and soothing voice. It appeared to be working, Ambers breathing was slowing down. I nodded my thanks to the zebra. My throat felt tight, I doubt I could speak right now.

“I think I can guess what happened after.” Nisi continued speaking, sounding tired. “You ended up being sold again. That’s when my late husband bought you. But we do not condone slavery. He offered you work. You had no reason to trust us, but I am glad you accepted. You are a remarkable mare, and it is an honor to have one such as you stay with us.”
She’s right. Amber is amazing.

Amber mumbled a thank you, still keeping her head in my mane. I could tell that she had calmed down and was probably just embarrassed at the praise right now. She slowly uncoiled her hooves from around me. “It’s. It’s getting late.” She rubbed her sore red eyes and smiled. “You will be staying in town right?” I nodded.

“You don’t have to leave. It’s not often I get such interesting company. Please stay a while.” Nisi said. She was definitely a very sociable zebra.

I had planned to leave as soon as the contract was done. Then Shrapnel talked me into staying for a few days.

“Where will you be staying?” Amber asked. Good question.

Before I could answer Cog interrupted. “At the Talon base. West of the central plaza.” Okay, I’ll take that as an invitation. I thought about sleeping at an inn or something.

“I know where it is.” Amber nodded to Cog. “I’ll stop by tomorrow.” She turned to me and smiled.

My heart practically leapt at seeing her smiling again. Crap. I really didn’t want to go. I just wanted to be with her now. To make sure no one hurts her.

The thought immediately soured in my mind. I’m an idiot. Protect her? I wasn’t there when she really needed me, and now when everything is fine, I am going to keep her safe? When did I become so conceited?

Nisi followed us to the outside of her shop, trying to get us to stay a bit longer. Amber chided her that it was late, and that she needed her rest.

“I will get all the rest I need when I’m with my husband.” The zebra grumbled, but went back inside.

The rain was still falling, but it was just a little drizzle now, not the downpour when we had first arrived. All of us stood silent for a moment.

Amber spoke first. “Mist I… It’s really good to have you back.” Awww shucks. Now I feel all warm and fuzzy inside, and I’m sure I was blushing too. She turned to Shrapnel. “You know, we should get together sometime. I can tell you all about the mischief Mist got up to when he was little.” Oh Celestia, take me now!

“Really? Sure!” Shrapnel chirped happily. “I thought that he was just a grumpy, serious pony, but I knew that he used to have fun.” Hey! I’m not grumpy. “Maybe he just needs somepony to remind him?” She quickly turned her head to me. “Don’t worry Mist, I’ll show you how to have fun again!”

Wha… I know how to have fun! This is ridiculous. Why would she think that I didn’t know how to have fun?

Amber turned and approached Cog, her face dead serious. Cog fidgeted nervously. I had a pretty good idea of what was about to happen, but I kept it to myself.

She looked the green unicorn right in the eyes. Faces inches apart. Cog was leaning back, ready to bolt at the first sign of danger. Then Amber hugged him.

Cog sighed with relief, tension leaving his face.

“I’m still pissed at you.” Amber said and Cogs face snapped back to a worried frown. “Just a little less than I was earlier.”

Lastly she came and gave me a hug. “I’ll drop by tomorrow afternoon. Don’t go anywhere.”

“I won’t.” I smiled and hugged her back.

The three of us left the shop at a steady pace, waving as we did.

There was a lightness in my heart. A pony that was very important to me is back in my life again. I felt great!

Have to hide! Can’t let her catch me! I thought to myself while running as fast as my little hooves could carry me.

I spotted some bushes and immediately dived into them. Swallowing between gasps for air, I peeked out through the leaves. Good. I lost her.

We were still close to the camp. The guards always watching us. I could have sworn I’d seen a shimmer in the moonlight not too far from where I was hiding. But there was no way she could find me. I used every trick in the book. Running in zigzags, hiding behind ponies, and now I found the perfect hiding place.

“Gotcha!”

“Eeeeep!” I tried to scramble out of the bushes, but my hooves got tangled up. She took the opportunity and pounced, pinning me to the ground. “Nooooooo!” I knew what came next.

“No mercy!” She said grinning evilly at me, before plunging her muzzle into my belly.

“Pfffff-HAHAHahaha! Qu-Quit it Amber!” I flailed my hooves at her, screaming and gasping. She was relentless, and true to her word she showed no mercy.

“S-Stop! I’m going to pee myself!” I begged and she finally relented, allowing me to catch my breath. My sides ached from laughing so hard, and I was completely exhausted. Yep, just laying here for a while suited me fine.

“Will you admit that I’m the hide-and-seek champion now?” Amber asked me, grinning smugly.

I didn’t answer. Instead I chose to just lay there and pant. She brought her hooves to either side of me, and started lowering her muzzle back to my stomach again. “Okay! Okay!” I quickly raised my hooves, catching her head. “You are the hide-and-seek champion. No pony can come close to your devious skill.” I said with a sigh and rolled my eyes. This round goes to her, but there is always tomorrow.

“Not devious. Crafty.” She corrected sounding hurt.

“Devious.” I insisted. She narrowed her eyes at me then reared her head back. “Okay! Crafty! You are the craftiest pony there is!” I managed to say just in time.

“And don’t you forget it.” She smirked triumphantly. Curse her and her tickling ways!

My nose started itching suddenly. I tried rubbing it, but it didn’t help.

“Ah-Ah-Achhooo!”

When I opened my eyes I found myself in bed, a brown wing was in front of my face, the feathers tickling my nose.

Right. The bunk above me was occupied by a griffin. The snoring confirmed that said griffin was still asleep, and unaware that one of his wings was hanging down the side. I poked it with a hoof, causing it to sway gently back and forth. The griffin didn’t so much as move.

I rolled over and got out of the bed from the other side, stretched and went to the footlocker with my things. To avoid drawing attention like yesterday, I decided to bundle up my cloak and keep it in my saddlebags. This meant that others could see that I was carrying weapons, but then all Talons were allowed to carry weapons.

The memories of my dream were already fading. All that I know is that it involved Amber and me, and that we were happy. It’s about time I had a happy dream.

Once dressed and ready, I headed to the- What did Cog call it, a ‘mess hall’? Terrible name.

Moving through the corridors I passed by ponies and griffins. “Mornin!” A few of them exclaimed. It was amazing how quickly they accepted me as one of their own. They are nothing at all what I expected a mercenary group to be like. They were more like a family. Is it wrong that I wanted to be a part of it? Should I stay? I lost my parents, I lost Zaeryl... Leaving is the right idea. You can’t lose what you don’t have.

I stopped at the double doors and pushed them open. Something green, which I was pretty sure was a vegetable flew over my head. On second thought ‘mess hall’ was a very appropriate name. The room was large and full of occupied tables. Ponies and griffins sat together, eating and chatting animatedly.

“Mist! Over here!” Cog shouted and waved a hoof to get my attention. He was sitting at a table with Saw, a griffin and another earth pony mare I didn’t recognize. “Listen. Go over there and grab something to eat, we’ll keep a seat free for you.” He said now pointing at a counter over to the far side. I nodded and headed over to it.

The counter had a number of platters that were full of various foodstuffs. Ponies and griffins were standing in line, carrying trays. The griffins simply held their trays with their talons, unicorns levitated theirs, pegasi held them in their forehooves while hovering. Earth ponies balanced theirs on their backs.

Looking ahead I could see Shrapnel balancing her tray on her nose. She had a little pile of cakes on it. Because she really needs more sugar.

“You planning on getting something?” Someone spoke behind me. I realized that I was still standing in the same spot while the rest moved on. After making my apologies I started loading my own tray. Hmmm. Lettuce, carrots, and some celery. Amazing how fresh the food was.

After getting everything I wanted, I went back to our table.

“-anf so thensh I saish. You coulghnt shoof the brood side of a house, if you were sthnding in front of it.” The griffin said while chewing on a dry piece of meat. It was unnerving how easily that beak could tear through flesh. Griffins don’t eat ponies, right. I mean they could, but they don’t. I really hope they don’t.

“Eeeeeww! Don’t talk with your mouth full! You’re so disgusting.” The earth pony scowled at the griffin. He just looked at her calmly.

‘Ptooie!’ The griffin responded, and a piece of meat hit the mare right between the eyes.

“Arrrgghh!” The mare reeled back, and started wiping her face. Stalking off, presumably to clean herself, she glared daggers at the griffin who just grinned back. Despite being a group of highly trained professional mercenaries, off duty they were about as mature as teenagers. I figure it’s a way to cope with the stress of the job.

“Prissy bitch.” Saw grumbled disinterestedly while resting her chin on the table. Cog was too busy with his PipBuck to notice anything, and Shrapnel… Where is she?

I looked around and spotted her, yet again balancing a tray on her nose while piling more cakes on it. I honestly hope that this is the normal amount of sugar she eats. Because if it isn’t, and she is just using the opportunity to sate her sweet tooth now… We’re in a lot of trouble.

“-ryone talking. The failed assassination attempt.” A clear and smooth mares voice suddenly came from Cogs direction. The volume rose and fell as he pressed the buttons on his PipBuck. “Councilor Narath has stated that the attempt on his life, while troublesome, is no cause for citizens of Vostoris to panic. A full investigation is in effect, and suspects are being tracked down.”

“Finally got the radio working?” Saw asked before putting something in her mouth and washing it down with beer.

“Shhh! I’m trying to listen.” Cog said and went back to adjusting the sound. The griffin also leaned in so that he could better hear what the mare on the radio was saying.

“The would-be assassins are, unsurprisingly, considered to be members of the Viper clan. When asked, why would the Vipers take such a seemingly pro-pony stand, the councilor dismissed it as an attempt from the Vipers to garner sympathies. ‘Their gang is slowly being weeded out of Vostoris, and so they are resorting to spreading propaganda.’ Councilor Narath urges ponies to ignore these Viper lies, and instead help by reporting suspicious activities to the proper authorities. There is also a reward for any proof brought in of involvement with the Vipers. With your help we can finally rid Vostoris of these pests.” A shuffling of papers could be heard from the PipBuck before the mare continued in a more relaxed and natural tone.

“There you have it dear listeners. As nice as it would be for us to believe that the Vipers are just some small time gang, sadly that is not the case. For those of you who are new here. The Vipers have existed since before the war, so there must be more to them than you are led to believe. Ponies, if you are listening, then just stick to ignoring them. If approached, politely decline. They are dangerous. As far as the rewards are concerned for turning in evidence of possible members, let me just tell you. Caps aren’t worth your life. Let the ‘authorities’ do their jobs. That’s what we pay them for. Thank you for listening, as always this has been another report from Vostoris radio. I am Zina, bringing you the truth no matter what the establishment wants you to believe!” The mare on the radio finished energetically. Wow, that was interesting.

“Are the Vipers really that dangerous?” I asked Cog. It’s obvious there is more to them than is being said. This Zina is right. The councilor treats them with contempt, but urges citizens to get involved?

The unicorn tapped his chin thoughtfully. “That depends. Compare to the Remnant and Separatists they are only pests.”

“This attempted assassination is new though.” The griffin spoke up. “Usually they just stick to stealing, and generally making a nuisance of themselves. They’re getting braver. My caps say they have support.”

“Support? From who? I can only think of the Separatists, but why?” Cog asked, and the griffin just shrugged.

“Why haven’t they been caught yet?” They’ve been here for how long? Since before the war. I’m surprised they didn’t take more immediate action against them.

“It’s not like they haven’t tried. But the Vipers have bases under Vostoris.” The griffin said. “We push them and they just scuttle under. The ‘undercity’ as they call it.” He shook his head. “It’s a maze down there.”

“Who are the councilors? The radio only mentioned this Narath.”

“Well there are five of them. Narath, Shiala, Zden, Lapsi and Brinn. But Narath, Zden and Shiala are the important ones. Lapsi and Brinn are more advisors than councilors.” Cog explained. “Narath is young, charismatic and very popular. It’s thanks to him that the Remnant and Separatists haven’t ripped Vostoris apart. He’s a good diplomat. Zden is…”

“His and old fart who hates everyone, himself included.” Saw said sourly.

“He’s and old veteran, well respected with the older zebras and the military, but nasty as a hellhound.” The griffin said while taking another bite from whatever that meat was. Best I don’t know.

Cog nodded. “Right, and Shiala is-“

“She’s hot.” The griffin stated, and we all turned to look at him. “What?”

Umm ok. How do I say this? “I didn’t think that griffins liked umm. That they were attracted to…”

“Zebras? Ponies?” He asked and I nodded. “It happens. Not often, but it happens.”

“Have you ever, you know?” Cog asked the griffin who looked back at him confused.

“Oh for the love of! These two ladies here wanted to know if you ever screwed a pony.” Saw said irritably. Both Cog and I blushed, and looked around hoping no one overheard.

“Heh, well there was this mare once.” The griffin blushed, scratching his cheek. “Back in Equestria, I didn’t think we should stay together. Not with the kind of work I do. She’s… gentle. She deserves someone, somepony better.” He smiled, but his eyes were sad. I can understand that. It wouldn’t be fair to her. His Work with the Talons leaves little time for family, and there is always the possibility of him not coming back.

“Ok. How does that work? Don’t griffins… hatch?” Cog asked with all the subtlety of a hammer.

“Well a male griffin and a mare can’t have offspring, but a griffiness and a stallion can.” The griffin was quiet after that. We didn’t ask any more questions.

Just as I was finishing my meal, I heard wings flapping and felt something press on both of my shoulders. With a sudden twisting motion I, along with the chair I was sitting on, was turned around in a half circle.

“How in Celestias name did you do it?!” It was the Pegasus I met yesterday, Skyfall.

“Did what?” I asked dumbly. His face was serious, eyes full of shock. My mind raced back to yesterday. Had I messed up somehow? Did he find out about something I did? I haven’t met him since before yesterday, so he couldn’t know anything before then. Unless someone told him. Was it about the way I killed that slaver?

“You’ve been here for a single day, and already you have hot mares asking for you by name!” He said exasperatedly. “So how the hell did you manage that?”

I noticed Cog’s head shooting up from his PipBuck. He raised an eyebrow and looked at me as surprised as Sky was. Saw just smirked still resting her head on the table.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about. Who is asking for me?” Hot mare? I don’t recall meeting anypony yesterday. Well I did see a few attractive mares in passing, but I didn’t actually meet with anypony.

Sky looked about ready to cry. “It’s not fair! I’ve been trying to score for weeks now, and you do it on your first day here. And to top it off you don’t even remember it! Teach me!” Okay, getting uncomfortable now! Sky hovered really close to me, his forehooves pressed together in a pleading manner.

“For Luna’s sake, calm down! Who’s asking for Mist?” Cog said rolling his eyes.

“This cute little blond mare trotted up through the front door. Ahh! That flank.” Sky bit his lip and looked at the ceiling for a moment. “I figured she had a contract for us. Just as I was about to make my move, she starts smiling and asking for YOU.” He jabbed me in the chest with a hoof to make sure I notice how upset he was. “Said her name was Amber, and that she’s here for you.”

Amber! She’s here! I hoped off the chair immediately and started for the door. I know I’ve seen her yesterday, but I’m just so happy to see her again today. I was practically bouncing.

“Wait! What about me?! I’ll take notes, just tell me how you do it!” Sky continued pleading.

“She’s his sister, dumbass.” Saw muttered.

“Amber’s here?! Alright, let’s go everypony!” Shrapnel chirped up, appearing suddenly from… somewhere.

“Your sister?” Sky looked dumbstruck, and then his face lit up. He grinned from ear to ear. “That’s great!” He floated down to me and hooked a hoof over my shoulder. “Alright here is what you’ll do. Tell her how I sawed you from a Remnant assault squad. You don’t need to go into details. I’ll hang back and look modest. You just say something like how you wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for me and… What?”

I stopped and looked at him straight in the eyes. He wants me to lie to Amber for him. So that he could ‘score’ with her. I’ve been with the Talons long enough to know what that means, and there is no way anyone is getting near Amber. Over my dead body. Maybe his, if he tries something.

“Alright, alright. It doesn’t have to be Remnant. Thirty raiders should do it.” Is he serious? Sky kept looking at me expectantly. I didn’t say anything, just continued looking him in the eyes. I wasn’t glaring per say, but he got the message. His wings wilted and his grin seemed forced now. “R-Right. Forget I said anything.” Smart.

Paying no further attention to the Pegasus, I left the mess hall with Cog, Saw and Shrapnel in toe.

The moment I stepped into the reception area Amber was there.

“Hi Misty!” She said beaming.

“Hello Amber.” I said while hugging her.

“Hi Cog, Shrapnel, I don’t believe we met. My name is Amber.” She said extending a hoof to Saw which she accepted.

“Saw. You’re Mist’s sister I know. Shrapnel told me. She also told me what the idiot back here did.” Saw pointed a hoof at Cog who flinched. “If I were you I would have beat the crap out of him.”

“Well not all mares are psychotic alcoholics like you Saw. You’re one of a kind.” Cog replied grinning. “And thank Celestia for that.” He added while dodging a hoof to the face.

“So what’s the plan? Where do we go? What are we going to do?” I promised Shrapnel that we would all go out to have fun together, but I don’t have the slightest idea where to start.

“Oh! Oh! I know! There’s going to be a fight held today in the arena. Somepony challenged the champion! Can we go watch?!” Shrapnel asked while bouncing up and down excitedly, in her armor I might add.

“Fight? Arena?” Why am I just hearing about this now? “This isn’t what I think it is. Is it?” I asked the group.

“That depends on what you are thinking.” Amber said and smiled.

“It’s a legal and strictly regulated fight with rules. First one to give up or gets knocked out losses. Anyone can fight, but they have to pay. If you win you get double, if you lose they patch you up and send you on your way.” Cog smiled and turned to Shrapnel. “The reigning champion is somewhat of a hero to our Shrapnel.”

“Well if you all want to go?” I looked at each of them in turn. Shrapnel nodded vigorously.

“Why not, I can lay down some bets on the warm up fights.” Cog said and shrugged.

“I’m up for some violence, as long as it’s not my hide on the line.” Okay Saw wants to go to. That just leaves…

“I’ve been to a few. They‘re fun.” Amber nodded to me.

“Alright then, lead on.”

The arena turned out to be a large warehouse that was used to store engine parts during the war. It’s a huge three-story, boxlike building with tall rows of seats set up against each wall. After paying we went inside.

“You think this is impressive? I heard stories about a grand arena they had in Roam before the world got blown to shit. What I wouldn’t give to see it.” A zebra spoke up beside me. He must have caught the look of surprise on my face when I entered the massive structure.

There was a lot of yelling and cheering going on. Will there be room for us? The place looked full. Mostly zebras, but there were ponies too.

We found empty seats higher up. Saw sat with Shrapnel in the row just in front of us, while Cog, Amber and I sat behind them.

In the center of the arena there was a circular padded mattress surrounded by a ring of sand. That’s where the contestants fight. Another rule that Cog mentioned was that you lose if you get tossed outside the mattress and into the sand.

The first match was between two zebras. They were about as graceful as ripperbeasts.
They beat each other bloody until one of them collapsed. Two zebras and a unicorn trotted into the ring. They were wearing white coats with a red cross painted on them. The zebras carried what looked like a sheet between them. The unicorn levitated the injured zebra onto the sheet and they quickly trotted back out, leaving the winner to bask in the cheering of the spectators.

“Yeah!” Cog whooped triumphantly. “You always bet on the slow, dumb looking ones. In the end they fight the hardest.”

“Too bad you’re not fighting then. I could bet on you and probably retire.” Saw said from in front of us. I couldn’t help but laugh. Cog shot me an annoyed look. Sorry Cog, but that was funny.

The next few fights were largely the same. Ponies fought too, gender didn’t seem to matter either. On occasion there would be some semblance of strategy. Like avoiding or actually parrying a strike. One on one, I could easily take them. It’s not like I’m bragging or anything, but there are just so many openings I can exploit. I’m really glad Zaeryl taught me how to fight.

“I never imagined you’d like this sort of thing.” I asked Amber who was cheering and stomping her hooves with the rest of the crowd.

“Why? It’s not that bad. No one gets really hurt, and it’s a good way to let off steam. Vent the aggression.” She shrugged and smiled.

“Well almost no one gets hurt.” Cog spoke up, overhearing our conversation. “There have been a few accidents, a few deaths. Poorly aimed blow lands on something vital.”

“How do you know if it was an accident?” Anyone can fight right? If you want someone gone this would be a good place to do it. Provided you have the skill.

“See those two zebras that don’t appear to be doing anything.” Cog pointed to two zebras that were circling the ring. I leaned out a bit and nodded. “They watch the fights and make sure that should one of the contestants faint, the other doesn’t make the killing blow. But accidents happen, and a few have died of complications while being treated.”

Two ponies had just finished fighting. One gave up and both were now leaving the ring.

“And now the fight you’ve all been waiting for! Someone has risen the ranks enough to challenge the champion!” A unicorn shouted as he stood in the middle of the ring. He was using magic to amplify his voice so that he could be heard over the crowd. “But who would be crazy enough to challenge the unbeatable terror? It is none other than, The Hammeeeeer!”

A large zebra stallion trotted onto the ring. He then reared up on his hind hooves and started waving at the public. Cheers exploded from all sides.

“Wow. I didn’t know they made them that big.” I heard Saw say. Indeed. He’s at least twice the size of a normal pony, and all muscle.

“He’s no match for the champion.” Shrapnel said unconcerned.

“And now I give you, the one, the only! Beeeeerrryy Puuuuuuuuuunch!!!” I didn’t think it possible, but the yelling grew even louder, my ears were ringing. Hmmm. Berry Punch? I was expecting a more intimidating name from the champion. Like ‘The Annihilator’ or something.

To my shock, and apparently it was only me who was surprised. A bright red earth pony mare with a short messy equally bright green mane and tail trotted onto the ring.

She too reared up on her hind hooves, and started flexing her forelimbs. When she was done she remained on her hind hooves and pointing a hoof at her opponent. She grinned madly and beckoned the zebra to attack.

The Hammer went off like a shot. Berry Punch waited till the last moment to drop down on all fours and duck out of the way. She managed to trip up the charging zebra while she was at it. The stallion stumbled, but quickly regained his balance. He approached her more cautiously now, and they started exchanging blows.

Now they were fighting. Not like those before who were just trying to hit harder than their opponent. Hammer and Berry Punch were dodging, parrying each other’s strikes. Trying to anticipate each other’s moves.

The fight cept growing more intense as time passed. It got me interested. The zebra was twice as big as the mare, and had the advantage of reach. Berry proved to be very flexible, as she dodged and weaved between his strikes.

Hammer sent a hoof to Berry Punches face. She crossed her hooves, caught his hoof between hers and pushed up. While doing this she also ducked under the zebra and brought one of her hoofs down, and sent it to his ribs. I couldn’t hear it, but I could see the zebras face contort in pain.

The way she deflected that strike, she was trained. No doubt about it. It looked like a variation of the Fallen Caesar style.

Berry was behind him now, but the zebra noticed and bucked. She curled up to protect herself from the blow. It wasn’t completely effective. She went tumbling back to the edge of the ring. That buck caught her in the stomach partially. She was having trouble standing up.

“Come on Berry! Kick his flank!” Shrapnel cheered on.

I strained my eyes to look at Berry. I saw blood on her lips. Maybe she’s broken a rib too. She should stop fighting.

Of course she didn’t stop. Because that would be a sane thing to do. Silly me. To her credit she kept smiling and goading her opponent.

It didn’t seem to be working. The zebra was circling her warily. Failing to provoke an attack, Berry charged the zebra herself. The stallion spun around and bucked out again.

Still going head on to meet the buck, she leapt in the last moment as the zebras hind legs went under her harmlessly. She punched with her forehoof and hit the stallion right in the kidney. As he reflexively brought his head around to curl up against the impact, Berry grabbed his head and somersaulted forward forcing the zebra to follow. At the end of the roll Berry was left panting on her back while the zebra rose back to his hooves. Things don’t look good for the champion. She was exhausted and injured, while the zebra looked ready continue fighting. Except Berry was still on the mat, while the zebra was standing in sand.

More cheering exploded from the gathered masses. The unicorn and two zebras rushed in. They gave both Berry and the zebra a potion while they looked over their injuries.

“And there you have it! The winner, and still champion, Berrrryyy Puuuuuuuunch!”

Well that was certainly an interesting match. I wonder who taught her to fight? That head lock reminded me of a back-tackle, but instead of rolling with the target you were supposed to bend his head to his chest and push upwards to break the neck.

“Hey, do you think we could ask her for an autograph?” Shrapnel asked as we were rising.

“I don’t see why not. Let’s ask her.” Amber said, much to Shrapnel’s joy.

It took some time, but once the crowds had cleared enough we managed to get down, and into the recovery room where fighters rested and prepared for fights.

Just how big was that zebra? Berry was a big mare. No doubt half a head taller than me. She was sitting in front of us, finishing a potion while one of the zebras in a white coat pressed a hoof against her ribs and stomach, asking her if it still hurt. Unlike the zebra who was bulky and built like a mountain. Berry was more sleek and lean, more athletic. I could clearly see her muscles outlined on the sweaty sheen of her coat. Her shoulders, stomach, strong flanks... Totally not checking her out! Just an observation of a hot bo-I mean firm-Gah! I meant to say a healthy body of a mare who has dedicated her life to the art of close combat.

I couldn’t help but notice that she had a scar on her muzzle. Not the kind gotten from a punch, but more like a cut. The scar was on her left side and went across both the upper and lower lip.

“Berry Punch!” Shrapnel exclaimed and zipped over to her. The zebras attending the champion looked nervously at the armored mare. “I’m your biggest fan! Well not biggest, like that zebra you fought, but I’m your fan! Would you mind- That is, can I ask you for your autograph?” Shrapnel looked up hopefully at the champion.

“Sure you can!” Berry smiled broadly. “Anything for a fan.” A unicorn beside her levitated up a pen and clipboard. “What’s your name?”

“Shrapnel!” The pink mare squeaked happily.

“You’re with the Talons right?” Berry asked while taking the pen in her mouth. Shrapnel nodded.

“Alright, here you go.” Berry said after she spat out the pen. The unicorn caught it and levitated over the signed piece of paper to Shrapnel who was bouncing excitedly.

I noticed that the piece of paper was actually a picture of Berry Punch smiling smugly. In a surprisingly graceful script she wrote ‘To my biggest fan, and fellow warrior Shrapnel. Never give up! Strawberry Mint, Berry Punch.’

“Strawberry Mint?” I asked the champion.

“Yeah, my name is Strawberry Mint. Berry Punch is my fighter tag.” The red mare stated proudly.

“Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!” Shrapnel kept repeating over and over again while jumping up and down.

“Heh, you’re a hyper little thing aren’t you?” Berry smiled while her eyes followed the bouncing mare.

“You have no idea.” Saw said and rolled her eyes.

“It’s nice to finally meet you in person. Shrapnel here has been watching you since before you became the champion. She always wanted to get your autograph, but we kept getting sidetracked.” Cog said.

“So you watched my rise to fame? Nice.” Berry smiled before looking us over. “You’re all together? I mean you are all Talons?”

“Yep. I’m Cog. This here is Saw.” He pointed to the yellow mare who just nodded. “The two unicorns are Mist and Amber.” He pointed to us in turn.

“I’m actually not a Talon. Just going out with my brother here and his friends.” Amber said bumping my flank.

“Nice to meet all of you. So did you enjoy the show?” Berry asked while leaning into a more comfortable position.

“Oh yes! It was a great fight.” Cog said and the rest of us pretty much nodded and murmured our agreement.

“Where did you learn to fight, if you don’t mind me asking? Your style is very impressive. Who taught you?” Maybe she was trained by a shaman like me? Or maybe she had contact with the Remnant. Whatever the case may be, I was curious.

“I taught myself. Picked up a few things here and there. Watching others.” She said drily. “Why?” Her dark green eyes narrowed suspiciously at me.

Why is she looking at me like that? Was she hiding something? “Just curious. It looked a lot like Fallen Caesar style.” She taught herself? I suppose it is possible. It would explain the openings she leaves, and the improvised moves.

“It did? And how would you know?” Okay I really don’t want her mad at me.

“Because Mist is a great fighter!” Shrapnel intervened before I could respond. “He’s been trained by a shaman. I saw him fighting Remnant myself.”

Berry looked taken aback for a moment. “Fighting Remnant?” The suspicion washed from her face and she smiled broadly at me. “The Remnant are tough bastards. Maybe you and I should try for a couple of rounds in the ring?” Is she serious? I hope not!

“I don’t know. Mist is pretty good. He might be too much for you.” Cog said as he scratched his chin. Berry’s face went serious and she started eyeing me up. Damn it Cog! You’re not helping!

“I’m not really interested in fighting right now.” I said trying to sound calm. Crap! I’m in trouble. I may be better than her when it comes to technique, but she’s got me beat at strength, endurance and speed.

“Yeah, alright. I just finished with a tough fight. Wouldn’t want to insult you by not being at my best.” She grinned mischievously at me. “I’ll rest up first.” Oh joy, I really missed being in pain.

“So you picked up a few moves watching Remnant fight?” I asked trying to change the subject.

“Yeah you could say that. I actually got caught in a crossfire between the Remnant and some slavers. The slavers were a joke, but the Remnant…” Berry shook her head. “Toughest fight of my life. Almost got killed. A stray bullet hit the zebra I was fighting and gave me the chance to slip away.” She pushed a hoof through her mane. “Their reflexes, speed and precision were incredible. And you say you fought with one?” She asked me, disbelief clearly showing on her face.

“Fought? Hah! He almost killed one.” Cog said sounding proud.

“IronClaw killed him. I got beat up and nearly died.” I corrected. If it wasn’t for the griffin I’m sure that Remnant would have finished me off.

Berry was looking at me strangely now. Uh-oh. “We should get going. Let you rest. I’m sure you have another fight waiting for you.” And I’m sure we should be somewhere else now.

“Nope. That was the last one for today, but yeah I would like to get some shuteye.” Berry said while stretching like a cat, with her rump in the air and-Not looking! Not thinking about it! Going away now!

We said our goodbyes and turned to leave. I had just reached the door when Berry called out. “Hey Mist! If you’re up for it feel free to stop by. I always wanted to spar with somepony who had training. Especially Remnant training. Should be fun!” She yawned and grinned.

“I’ll keep that in mind.” No way! I like my bones to remain where they are thank you.

We were walking through the markets again. I wasn’t really paying attention to where we were going. Looking up I could see heavy clouds forming. Looks like we’re in for more rain today.

“I know! You should have seen it! He was covered in tree sap! I had to pull twigs out of his mane for hours!” Amber was telling Shrapnel embarrassing stories from our foalhood. Best to just ignore her. Reacting to it only makes it worse.

“Wow! I never would have guessed Mist was so rambunctious as a foal.” Saw teased.

“Yes he was!” Amber laughed and then she became sad. “He… was. Until...”

“Amber. Are you alright?” I slowed down to walk beside her. What’s wrong? She was teasing me just a moment ago and having fun.

“Until what?” Saw asked looking concerned. Cog and Shrapnel were now looking at us too.

“Until they beat that filly, and killed her mother.” Amber said quietly looking up at me.

I remember. The filly that couldn’t perform enchanting. It wasn’t her fault. She just… couldn’t do enchanting. Had I really changed after that? I don’t know.

“Mist, you alright?” Cog asked me. I realized I was staring off into the distance, not paying attention to anything.

“Yeah Cog. I’m fine.” I looked at Amber, and I could see the beginnings of tears in her eyes. Very faintly I could hear water, waves crashing to be precise. That gave me an idea. “Would you mind waiting for just a bit? I want to show something to Amber.” I asked the others.

“Sure. No problem Mist. We’ll be over there getting something to eat.” Cog said and pointed to one stand that was selling various foods.

“What do you want to show me?” Amber asked wiping her eyes. I didn’t answer. I just trotted ahead of her and smiled back. She trotted after me.

Weaving through the masses I went to the sound of the water. The fresh, invigorating smell of the sea grew stronger. I stopped when we reached the docks. All around me I could see ships of many different sizes tied to the pier. Only a few of them were floating, the rest were badly rusted and looked about ready to sink.

I sat down on the stone edge and looked out to the horizon. I could hear hoofbeats getting louder and slowing down as Amber joined me.

“What did you want to show me?” She asked wide-eyed, scanning the pier.

“That.” I said and with a hoof gestured to the sapphire expanse before us. “The sea. We’re seeing it together. For real. Not just in old pictures.”

“Pfheh…” Amber got choked up while trying to laugh. Tears were flowing freely down her face now. She smiled and hugged me. It was good to see her smiling again.

I had no idea how long we spent there, just looking. It didn’t matter to me. I haven’t felt this much at peace in a long time.

“It’s not so bad, you know. This world.” Amber whispered beside me. “It still needs a lot of work, but I believe it could be changed for the better.”

“It can.” I’m going to try that’s for sure.

“The worst part is what the foals have to go through. Their innocence gets taken away so early.” She said with a little shiver. I hugged her tighter.

“I know.” It’s hardest on the foals.

“Mist, what’s on your mind?”

“What do you mean?” I asked looking into her amber eyes.

She smiled.”I know that look. It’s the one you get when you want to ask something, but are afraid of what the answer might be.” Damn she knows me too well.

This talk of foals got an unpleasant thought swimming in my head. Like she said dare I ask it? “Amber when you were… enslaved. You were there for…”

Amber swallowed hard. “A few years.”

“And he was… breeding ponies.” She nodded and I looked at her. She just stared out into the sea. “Amber. Do you have a foal?”

She kicked a small stone into the water. It fell in with a ‘blup’ forming circles where it hit the water. “I had a foal.” She said barely above a whisper.

“What happened?” Do I really want to know? Why do I continue to hurt myself?

“She wasn’t a unicorn. So he killed her.” Amber sniffed and hugged me.

“I’m so sorry.” I hugged her back, and gritted my teeth. “If I find him I’ll-“

“No.”

“What?”

“Don’t. I don’t care. I’m free of him now. I don’t want you going out there killing for something no pony can change.” She pressed her head against my chest and kept her eyes closed.

But he has to be stopped. I can’t just allow him to continue treating ponies like that. “What about the others? What about the other mares whose foals he’s take away?”

She opened her eyes and looked up angrily at me. “Don’t look for excuses Mist. If you find slaves you free them, if you can. But you don’t go killing when you don’t need to. You’re not a murderer.”

Yes I free them, and then what? Nothing changes. If I let them live they just go back to slaving and ruining somepony else’s life. Why couldn’t she see that? Some you just have to remove from the world to make it better.

I felt the first raindrops fall, and saw them on the water’s surface.

“Mist?”

I looked down at Amber, she was still holding tight to me. “Come on. Let’s go before it really starts pouring down.”

We met up with the rest at the stall they said they would be. And we headed to the bar. Saw’s idea to combat the rain. Cog said that getting drunk was pretty much her solution to everything.

I guess it wouldn’t be a completely shitty end to the day if I hadn’t seen a face that I thought I would never see again, or hoped to never see again. A face that needed a bullet between the eyes.

“Santir…” I can’t believe he’s here! I kept my eyes on him. It was difficult with the crowds, but no way was I losing him.

“Mist, where are you going?” Cog asked, but I didn’t answer. No time. Had to stay on his tail.

I pushed through the crowds, stopping every now and then to rear up and get a better look. He was heading to a building not far from us. I quickened my pace. Here is my chance. I failed those ponies, I failed that mare and her foal, but now I can try and make up for it. By making sure he doesn’t do the same to anyone else.

“For fucks sake, slow down! What’s wrong?” Saw caught up to me. I was still trotting and didn’t bother to slow down.

“That’s him. Santir. The one from Sumaj. The one that told the Remnant where the ponies were. The one that got them killed.” I answered in a rush.

“Shit.” Was all she said, but she didn’t try to stop me.

Once we reached the door of the building I explained to the others who I was chasing.

“What are you going to do?” Amber asked in a quivering voice.

“Something I should have done a long time ago.” Maybe she was willing to forgive that monster who kept her like an animal, but I didn’t want to forgive Santir. I couldn’t.

“Mist don’t…” She pleaded, but I had already pushed the door open.

We stood in front of a long hall that ended with a staircase and elevator. The console on the elevator was broken and I could hear hoofbeats from somewhere above us.

“Amber, stay here.” For all I know Santir might be carrying a weapon.

“No!” She trotted ahead of me and grabbed my shoulders. “Listen you don’t have to do this. Call the guards. Have him arrested.” Arrested? For something he did outside of Vostoris? They won’t arrest him for that.

I pushed on ahead and started climbing the steps.

“Do something! Stop him!” I could hear Amber shouting behind me.

“Why? He’s right.” Saw said and started going after me.

The hoofbeats above me grew louder as I climbed. They didn’t change beat so he must not know I’m following him. With luck I’ll catch up.

“Hold up Mist. He might have a weapon. I’m going with you.” I heard Saw behind me. So I slowed down a little. We got off the stairs a few floors up and were now in another long hall. Luck was on my side and I noticed a door closing.

Before it could close completely I bucked it open.

“What the-“ Was all that Santir managed to say as he fell on his back and looked up in shock. “You!?” His face contorted in rage and he got back onto his hooves and charged me. Is he actually trying to get himself killed?

I sent a hoof to the side of his head and he veered off to the left to crumple against a wall. I want over to him and pressed a hoof to his neck. With my magic I drew out my pistol and pointed it at his head.

“Well, wh-what are you wai-waiting for?” He stammers and huffed. My hoof pressing down on his neck might have something to do with that. He’s right, what was I waiting for? A confession? Some admission of guilt? Perhaps a reason why he sold out the lives of dozens of ponies. Did I want to hear it? Would it change my mind?

“Why?” I asked calmly. Too calmly for what I was about to do, and raised my hoof a little from his neck so that he doesn’t pass out.

“Why? Does it matter? I knew you’d find out. I’m responsible. I killed them. Maybe I didn’t pull the trigger, but their blood is on my hooves regardless.” At least he admits it, but why? Why didn’t he even try to lie?

“It matters to me.”

“I needed the caps, and no one really cares for the lives of a few ponies.” His words were dripping with venom and I was so tempted to pull the trigger, but something held me back. This was the first time I was doing something like this, but I was sure the one about to get killed shouldn’t provoke his attacker. I looked around his home.

“Where is your wife? Where is Zera?” The room we were in was mostly empty. Just a bed, a few chairs, bathroom and a few things strewn about.

“She. She’s gone.” As he said it, anger seemed to leaving him.

“Gone?” Did she realize what he did?

“She died.” He said quietly. “She was sick, and I thought that getting her here, to Vostoris they might save her.”

“That’s why you needed the caps? What kind of illness did she have that needed so many caps to treat?” I don’t know the exact amount he was paid, and I’m not sure I want to know. But the Remnant paid well.

“Taint.” He said bitterly.

I shook my head. “Taint, can’t be cured.”

“I know that! But with proper treatment even in the advanced stages you could still live for a few years. I-I just didn’t want to lose her.” Tears started flowing down the zebras cheeks.

“She died anyway. You lost her, and sacrificed the lives of those ponies for nothing.” I said in a calm tone. The knot I felt inside started to unravel. I shouldn’t have let him speak. I should have just shot him and be done with it.

“I know! Don’t you think I realize that?! Do you think I can sleep soundly at night?!” Santir hissed at me. “When her sickness got worse, all I could think about was how to help her. I was desperate. Desperate enough to commit an atrocity. I haven’t slept soundly ever since.” Good. Neither have I. “When we got attacked by shifters I thought that it was punishment for what I had done.”

Santir paused for a moment then looked at me with eyes full of hate. “Then ‘you’ showed up. And what did you do? You saved us. Can you imagine what that felt like? To condemn innocents and then to be saved by one of them?”

“Did you tell Zera what you had done?” Thinking back it all made sense. Why Santir seemed so angry at me for continuing on to Sumaj, but was that the reason Zera was sad?

“No. I pretended to scout ahead. I told her that a pony caravan was being attacked by raiders, and that we needed to get away before they caught us too.” I doubt she would have gone with him if she knew what he had done.

“Do you regret saving us?” The question caught me off guard for a moment.

I brought the pistol closer to his head. “I regret saving you.” He nodded slowly, understanding, accepting.

“Then do it.” He said and closed his eyes, and pressed his forehead against the barrel.

“Mist, don’t. You’re not a murderer.” A voice whimpered behind me.

I turned around. When did the room get so full? Saw was standing beside me looking at the zebra, her face full of contempt. Cog was levitating his shotgun, but it was pointed at the ground. He was holding Amber back. The green unicorn looked up to me waiting for some kind of advice or guidance.

I couldn’t see Shrapnel’s face because she had her helmet on, but I was sure she was miserable. Amber. Amber was crying and kept extending a hoof to me. Her mouth still wordlessly making out the words ‘Don’t do it, please’.

I looked at the zebra. “Santir.” His eyes snapped open uncertainly. “They didn’t kill everyone. A mother and her foal escaped.” His eyes appeared to light up with hope. “But the Remnant tracked them down.” Santir winced as if struck. “I couldn’t help them.” The memory of my failure rushed back. I did nothing, just sat there. Useless. “They killed the mother and took the filly away.”

Santir’s eyes darted left and right. He was trying to look at both of mine, but me being so close made it difficult. “I know what kind of life awaits her, because I lived it. Except I had a family, she has no one.”

“Wh-Why are you telling me this?” The zebra’s voice was breaking. I pulled the gun away.

“Because I’m not going to kill you. What you have done… You’ll just have to live with it.” It took a moment to sink in, but when he realized what I had said, he gritted his teeth and looked like I had just stabbed him and gave the knife a twist.

He sobbed, tears flowing freely now. I turned around to the rest. “Let’s go. We’re done here.”

“You are a coward! You don’t give a damn about those ponies!” Santir screamed at me. I didn’t pay attention. He wanted me to kill him. To him that would be justice and he wouldn’t have to suffer anymore. “I’ll do it again! Be sure of that! There blood will be on your hooves. You could have stopped me, but you didn’t! Do you hear me!?” I hear you, and I know you won’t do it. Cog had managed to push Amber out of the room. Saw and Shrapnel exited after them.

“You can’t just! You! How can you. How can you…” Santir’s voice grew quieter as I exited and closed the door behind me. I’m not sure, but I believe he was saying ‘How can you be so cruel’.

SLAP!

A hoof connected with my cheek and I staggered to one side. Cog caught me and held me up. Amber was glaring at me. Her eyes red and puffy from crying, in fact she was still crying.

“Damn it Mist! You wanted to do it, didn’t you? You wanted to just gun him down.” She was shaking.

I didn’t answer her. She already knew that I wanted to. I still do, only now I know that I would be sparing him further pain if I killed him, and I would be damned if I was going to help him again.

Amber shook her head sadly. “Damn it. What’s happened to you?” She whispered.

I had my eyes opened. That’s what happened.

She turned around and went for the stairs. “Amber wait-“ Saw stood in front of me, blocking my path. “What are you doing? Amber please wait!”

“Let her be Mist, she needs to calm down.” Saw said calmly.

“But I. She. She’s mad at me.” I can’t lose her! I tried pushing past her, but she didn’t budge.

“Right now she’s pissed at everypony, including herself. Give her time. She still cares about you. She’ll come back.” I calmed down a bit. Maybe she’s right. I should just give her time. “Come on lets go the bar.” I nodded weakly.

We found an empty table for the four of us. A zebra mare dressed in a type of two-part gown that looked suspiciously tailored to draw attention to her flanks, smiled warmly as she brought us drinks. Saw had ordered whiskey for all of us. The rain outside was rhythmically pelting the windows while the bar was comfortably warm and filled with chatter from the other guests. I was exhausted, both mentally and physically.

Saw had already downed her third glass and was pouring another. The bottle had a picture of a Pegasus rearing up on his hind-hooves, wings fully spread out.

Shrapnel was looking into her glass sadly, apparently recalling today’s events.

“You think he might off himself anyway?” Cog had one hoof on the table and was resting his head on it. He was absentmindedly tracing circles on the rim of his glass with his other hoof.

“No. If he could have killed himself he would have done it already.” He was scared. Getting killed is one thing, but taking your own life was something different.

I levitated the glass to my lips and drank. The liquid was hot all the way down to my stomach. I was thankful for the heat. Right now it was the only warmth I could feel.

Footnote: Level Up.

New Perk: Agent of Vengeance – Some mistakes can be forgiven, others can’t, and then there are those who commit such atrocities that they need a bullet put between their eyes. You do 20% more damage to, and have an added 10% chance of performing critical strikes against those that made your shit-list.
Note: These bonuses only apply to certain(unique) enemies.

(Thank you Kkat for making such an awesome story and world in which other ponies like myself can play and let loose our imagination. Somber deserves thanks as well. For proving that side-stories can be just as amazing and unforgettable as the original. Special thanks to A racist zebra and NeverKnown for helping me edit and sort out the convoluted mess I've made out of Mist's story. Thanks also go to DamnfoolBrony for working his magic and helping me set up the perks. Oh and very special thanks to Lauren Faust!)