The Bounty Hunter

by Son Of Mu

Chapters

• Chapter One
• Chapter Two
• Chapter Three
• Chapter Four
• Chapter Five
• Chapter Six
• Chapter Seven
• Chapter Eight
• Chapter Nine
• Chapter Ten
• Chapter Eleven

Chapter One

The hunt. There was nothing greater in life when you stalk your prey through environment completely foreign to you. Where everything could kill you and you don't know where to go. What makes the hunt greater is when you get paid to do it.

The dull grey-coated pony wearing a dark brown leather jacket with blue jeans, white socks and black boots sprinted down the street and turned down one of the many side alleys trying to get away from what was chasing him. It was late in the night so he knew he could be killed and no pony would see it.

Upon entering the alley, he quickly took note of his environments. The alley was a dead end, with a two-metre wire fence blocking the way through to another street. Other than that, there were a few dumpsters on either side of the alley, and a set of rusting metal stairs and platforms running up to various residences on the right side. An orange lambda symbol was graffitied on one of the walls. There was nowhere his quarry, an earth pony (who was frankly not in good physical shape) could go. The pony let out a gulp and turned to run out but stopped as his ears perked up by the sounds of something coming towards him while his eyes widened.

"Oh no."

The dull, grey-maned earth pony scrambled trying to pull out the knife he had in his coat. Once he finally got hold of the handle he pulled it out just as a figure landed by the entrance and his only escape.

The pony gulped as he looked at the one who had been chasing him. The figure  had two shoulder pads which were orange, like his kneepads. The left shoulder pad exhibited  a skull logo while his right chest plate displayed an emblem of unknown origin. He wore a power armor liner. This liner shirt had a micro energy field projector and two layers of thin ceramic plates.. The power liner also gave him increased protection from fire, acid, intense heat, and cold. His main clothing was a reinforced armor mesh battle/flight suit. The inner lining of the suit blocked poisons and corrosives for a period of time. This suit had pockets on his hips and thighs. He also wore a leather utility belt that usually had ten leather pouches. Below this he wore a Journeyman Protector honor sash. Attached to his right shoulder were three braided Wookiee scalps. The battle/flight suit had pockets on his shins which contained an anti-security blade, a survival knife, a jet-pack adjustment tool, and a sonic-beam weapon. Fett wore spats around his ankles to help prevent debris from going into his boots. They were smaller than standard spats, were made of a light colored cloth and attached behind the ankle as opposed to under the boot. He also wore a pair of versatile boots that had two spikes attached to the front of each. The figure was also bipedal.

"Boba Fett." The pony spoke in fear as the figure walked closer to him. In his hand, he held an EE-3 carbine rifle, that was outfitted with a scope for sniping and a fast draw shoulder sling while also having hand grips going lengthwise down the barrel. The pony knew that he would be dead before he could even get close to Boba.

Boba continued to approach his target, taking his time as he slowly walked up to where the dun-coloured pony was scrambling backwards even as he pressed up against the end of a wall holding the knife out.

"Please don't do this." The pony begged which didn't work as Boba simply continued to walk toward him.

"Please, Boba. I have a family to feed. Just let me off. Let us off."

Boba was now standing almost directly over his ‘contract’, silhouetted against the dim moonlight that penetrated the depths of the alley. The pony swung his knife only to have it knocked away where it skidded across the ground. Boba then placed his rifle against the pony temple causing him to freeze up in fear. "Tell me where you hid the stash and I might consider sparing you."

Boba noted with some pleasure at the expected reaction. Smoke’s shoulders visibly sagged with relief and he let out an undisguised sigh. "Thanks, Fett. You don’t know what this means to me. Really—"

"Just tell me where you hid the stash." Boba interrupted while pressing the blaster closer to the pony head.

"It’s in an abandoned shed, three kilometers south-east from here. The combination from the lock on the door is five, eight, one."

"How do I know you’re not lying?"

The pony gulped as he watched Fett just stared down at him from beneath his helmet. "I swear!"

Boba just stared at him for a few more minuted and raised his blaster away from the pony. "I believe you."

The pony let out a deep breath of relief only for his eyes to widen as Boba grabbed him by the neck bringing him to his helmet. "If I find out you're lying...... I'm coming for you and your family."

The pony let out a gulp and nodded his head as he was dropped to the ground with Boba flying off with his jet.

Boba really was in a good mood. The contract had gone off without a hitch, even though it was only a low-risk and –pay ‘soft’ job. He had managed to conform to his employers’ wishes to retrieve their package while maintaining a minimal amount of violence. He preferred to keep his approach non-lethal.

This brought his mind subconsciously to the non-legal and non-moral quality of his line of work. At the edge of his mind, the ghost of a conscience still nagged him. He really hadn’t wanted to threaten his quarry, to see him in fear like that…but business was business, and he had to look out for himself anyway. Besides, nobody got hurt. Same can't be said for those wanted dead or alive. Mostly dead though.

Distracted by his musings, he almost missed the old shed Smoke was talking about. Landing at the door, he noticed with satisfaction and minor relief that there was a numerical lock on the door. At least he would not have to make good his threat regarding Smoke’s family. No matter how his career had become part of him, he did not want to take an innocent life, much less two or three.

What was the combination again? Five…eight…one…bingo! The lock opened with a clack. Boba swung the thin wooden door open on its rusted hinges. His eyes fell on the medium-sized cardboard box on the floor, its content of cigarettes, supposedly of legit brand names visible through a gap in the lid.  Good. Now there was only one thing left to do. Once securing the contents, he turned and flew off again.

Boba watched soundlessly from a rooftop, close to Smoke’s apartment through the scope on his rifle. He watched as the dull brown-grey pony approached his apartment with caution, unaware of Boba’s prying eyes. Smoke rang the doorbell and waited for a few seconds before a bright green filly threw the door open and jumped into his arms joyfully.

Returning the gesture with a hearty laugh, Smoke entered the house and closed the door, locking and latching it. He sat down on the couch and called out to somepony out of sight. Boba changed his viewing position to an open window on an adjacent wall.

A mare  appeared and hugged Smoke tightly. Boba in contemplative silence watched as Smoke conversed with his wife, head hung low, about tonight’s events. Boba saw she had dark yellow fur with a white mane. She was wearing a blue dress that Boba thought went all the way down to her knees. All he could was just their upper bodies.

"They sent someone after me tonight, and I had to tell him where I hid the stuff."

The mare simply looked at him lovingly and kissed him lightly on the cheek.

"It’ll be fine. We’ll get through this. It’s about time for us to live clean anyway, for the foals’ sakes…"

The couple sat by each other, their mutual love and trust breaching the wall of physical silence between them. Smoke sighed deeply, momentarily just another stallion with a huge burden and no way of shouldering it.

"He threatened me, you know. He threatened to go after you and our kids if anything wasn’t right. Maybe all of you should just go somewhere safe and wait this out."

Boba felt his guilty conscience become a little more noticeable in his mind and cringed. Every job had a negative factor. 'Business is business.' he thought to try to clear his conscience from guilt.

Smoke’s wife placed a hand on his cheek, gently guiding his line of sight until their eyes met.

"Do you remember when you first told me about your job, and why you didn’t want to make commitments? Like I said then, no matter what happens, I want to be right here with you. We’ll face this together."

Boba broke off his gaze and edged away from his viewpoint, mulling over the outcome of the situation. Part of him was glad that he hadn’t caused any permanent damage to the family, but there was also disgust. Disgust that he had pursued the matter to its end, disgust at his blatant excuse of an attempt to be responsible for his actions, disgusted that he was so soft. Two long years and he still couldn’t come to terms with this job. It was a weakness, and it caused him to scorn himself to the very core. At the same time, this was an easy way to earn bits.

It was all very confusing, as emotions always were after the incident's, so he simply pushed it aside, save the personal compromise of an exasperated sigh and a wistful, longing glance into the distance, where the moon perched itself on a faraway mountain range as he flew off.

Chapter Two

A blue unicorn sat behind a desk with a bored look on her face. She had her hand resting against her chin as her eyes were closed. The mare had a light grey fur with a white mane. She wore a dark blue dress that went down to her feet where she was wearing heels. She also had a pair of glasses on her face. The mare sat inside a building that said collection office on the outside in big white bold letters. The mare slowly closed fell deeper and deeper into slumber.

SLAM

The mare jumped up when she heard the doors slammed close. After adjusting her glasses to see who it was, she wished she didn't. Walking towards her with his boots making a soft thud with every step was Boba Fett. Sure she didn't have a bounty on her head but it still didn't stop the fact that she was completely terrified of somepony who wore strange armor and never showed his face. She tried to control her shaking as Boba stopped at her desk and just stared down at her while grabbing a bag that was attached to his hip. She was impressed she didn't flinch when the bag slammed onto the desk. "Tell Mr. Blackhoof that his stash is in that bag." Boba spoke.

The mare swallowed the lump in her throat as she grabbed the bag and sat it down beside her while also grabbing a bag what was making clink sounds. Boba raised an eyebrow underneath his helmet when he saw she pulled out two bags. "The first is the promised payment. The second is a bonus when Mr. Blackhoof heard there wasn't any violence."

'Of course he did.'

Boba grabbed the bags and attached them to his hip. "Any other contract?"

The mare was able to control her shaking now. "There are no other contracts right now."

Once the words left her mouth Boba was already on his way out the door. "Wait!"

Boba stopped and turned when he heard the mare shout. He watched her pull out a letter of some kind and held it out for him. Boba stared at her hand that was shaking slightly but none the less he took the letter and stared at it. He stared at it and saw it was addressed to him but had no name who sent it. He glanced over at the mare. "It was just here on my desk." The mare quickly explained when she saw Boba staring at her.

Boba simply turned and walked out the doors causing the mare to sigh in relief. "I don't get paid enough for this." The mare spoke as she sat back in her chair falling asleep again.

Boba stared at the letter as he walked through the town ignoring the nervous looks of the ponies walking through the town. The town that Boba stopped in was a place called Water Thirst. Kind of ironic since it was in a desert called San Palomino. Even after being here in this strange new land he would never get used to the ponies names of their towns. Breaking from his train of thought, he stared down at the strange new letter in his hand. The letter itself was black. Boba received many strange letters, but this one was new. Boba fired off his jetpack ignoring the sound of surprise by all the ponies as he flew up and landed on top of the building. Once he was sure no one was around he began to open the letter.

Greetings Boba Fett,

Boba raised an eyebrow but continued to read on.

I have a proposition for you. I selected you for a special hunt for a special prey. If you succeed, your reward will be in the amount of five million bits.

Boba eyes widened underneath his helmet. That could set him for life. This could also be a trap. Who would have such a bounty on them anyway.

You are to locate and capture any of these targets. Dead or alive.

Boba looked down at his targets. It one had a picture of his targets.

The first picture was a mare with a pink coat of fur that covered her entire body and a pink mane. Pinkie Pie, element bearer of laughter.

The second picture was a mare with a purple fur and a horn on top her head with a violet mane and tail, with a pink stripe running down them. Twilight Sparkle, element bearer of magic.

The third picture was a mare with an orange mane with a yellow mane and tail in a ponytail. She also wore a old Stetson. Applejack, element bearer of honesty.

The fourth picture was a mare with yellow fur and her mane and tail were a light pink colour. Fluttershy, element bearer of kindness.

The fifth mare had cyan fur with a rainbow mane and tail. Rainbow Dash, element bearer of loyalty.

Next mare had white fur with a horn and a deep purple mane and tail. Rarity, element bearer of generosity.

'Hmm. The elements of harmony. Now I see why they are paying a lot if they pay. Who's the last two?'

Boba pulled out the last two pictures to see who they were.

The mare in the picture had pink fur and her mane had purple, pink and blonde hues. On top of her head was a horn while behind her were wings. Princess Cadance, Ruler of the crystal empire.

The only stallion in all the pictures he saw had white fur with a blue mane and tail and had a horn on top of his head. Prince Shining Armor, ruler of the crystal empire. Still captain of the royal guard?

Boba stared at the pictures taking in their details. 'Just titles and names, nothing else. This person wants to test me......or watch me fail. In any case I accept. Where do I go to collect the bounty, though?' As the word left his mouth the letter busted into green flames with  directions. 'South of here huh.' Boba thought as he watched the green flames then shaped into three word before finally vanishing.

WE WILL KNOW.

Boba stared where the flames once were before glancing back down at his prey. All he had to do was bring one in dead or alive. 'Time to go be set for life.'

Chapter Three

Boba had his work cut out for him. He in all honestly didn't know where to begin. Yeah, he had information that two of the targets were rulers of the crystal empire but he needed more information before he could make his move against any of his targets especially the two rulers. It sounded like the element bearers would make the easiest target, but Boba knew that looks could be deceiving. It turned out that getting information on the elements of harmony bearers was easier than he thought. Apparently they were heroes and it was easy how these ponies assumed everyone was nice. That was why Boba Fett headed towards Ponyville though he made sure to go through the forest so he wouldn't be seen. That would attract attention to him and Boba didn't want that.

'The forest sucks, though.' Boba thought annoyed while he dug his knife out of the manticore head while the body lay on the ground with blood pouring out of it. After one more tug, he was able to extract his knife. 'Damn beast.' Boba wiped the blood of his knife using the thing's fur then placed his knife back into its sheath.

Boba turned and continued his way towards where the town was located. 'If that merchant lied...' Boba stopped his train of thought as he saw a cottage that was near the edge of this forest. It wasn't the cottage he stared at, but his target standing outside feeding animals from the looks of it. 'So that's where the element of kindness lives.' Boba thought as he watched Fluttershy. He had to admit she was beautiful....Boba shook his head. Where the hell did that thought come from? Well, time to collect a bounty. Boba began to approach the cottage slowly as he didn't want to make any noise. He was a hundred yards away but immediately stopped as he saw his HUD picking up movement. It indicated that it was coming from the sky causing him to glance up only to see a Rainbow blur that landed by his target. 'This day is just full of surprises.' Boba thought as he stared at them.

From this distance he well out of sight as he watched the two talk.

"Flutters are you almost done?"Rainbow impatiently asked while she hovered above the ground with her wings flapping every other second.

"Almost." Fluttershy replied in a low tone which Boba almost missed.

"Well we need to hurry up before egghead blows up for not being on time!"

'Egghead?'

Boba watched as Fluttershy walked into her cottage leaving Rainbow outside. 'This is an opportunity.' Boba thought as he set his gun to stun then slowly raised it to where he was looking through the scope at Rainbow. Steady breathing. In.....out......in......out. Hold your breath then slowly squeeze down on the trigger. Boba finger began to slightly squeeze the trigger.

"I'm ready." Fluttershy appeared causing Boba to raise his finger off the trigger.

'Damn it!' Boba growled as he lowered his rifle to stare at the two.

"Well let's go!" Rainbow shouted as she flapped her wings causing her to rise into the air.

Fluttershy followed after her, but Boba saw her wings were having more trouble. 'She might be an easier target.' Boba thought as he saw the two fly off. Looks like he is going to have to fly after them. Lucky he paid a merchant to enchant his equipment so he could walk on clouds. 'Still think the bastard ripped me off.' Boba thought as he flew into the air but making sure to fly height then them as well keep his distance. It wasn't even that a long of a flight as Boba saw them land by........a tree.........tree house. Learn something new everyday. Boba landed on a cloud and quickly lay down in a prone position but making sure he kept his body in the cloud so not to be seen.

He raised his rifle back up to look through the scope just in time as he saw their friends show up. 'I know they are friends according to what I heard, but it's just funny how I happen to be hunting for them and they all got together.' Boba thought in amusement as he stared down at these ponies. He quickly shook his head when he realized he wasn't paying attention to what they were saying. First mistake in bounty hunting.......never take your eye off the prize.

"About time yer got here. Thought we were going to leave you both." Spoke Applejack with a smile while she teased them.

"Bleh!" Rainbow just responded by sticking her tongue out.

"Very unlady like darling." Rarirty spoke while Rainbow just shrugged her shoulders carelessly.

"Don't really care." Rarity merely huffed.

Boba simply watched all of them before he noticed something. 'Where's the pink one?" Boba thought as he didn't see her nor did he see her on his HUD.

"I"M READY!" Everypony including Boba glanced over to see the pink one.......with bags.......why was she putting a cannon inside a suitcase? Better question is how did it fit!?

"Pinkie where were you?" Twilight asked the question on their minds.

"Well........ you see....." This actually got the attention of the ponies as they leaned forward. "I was here the whole time in Ponyville!"

Boba watched them and couldn't help but think to himself how he always get the crazy ones. He watched as Twilight turned backwards as her friends walked off to.......a dragon? Boba remembered one contact was to bring in a dragon dead or alive. Stupid thing wouldn't surrender so luckily he knew what that dragon loved to eat and may or may not stuck a thermal detonator in it causing said detonator to go off. Either way it was a nice payday.

"You absolutely sure you can do this?" Twilight asked with a worry expression on her face.

"Of course. I wouldn't agree to it if I couldn't. Piece of cake. Speaking of cake, I got a little something I have to attend to." Boba watched as the young dragon pulled out a cookbook.

Twilight face turned from worry to a look of annoyance. "Yeah like a house full of critters."

Spike licked his lips then turned around. "Yeah, that's what I was totally talking about. Relax. Go to your welcoming thing in the Crystal Empire."

Wait. What?

Spike shooed her off. "Spike's got it all under control." The two waved at each other goodbye. When Twilight was twenty feet away, Spike closed the door and soon the sounds of animals were heard causing her to glance back with worry only to turn around when Rainbow grabbed her shoulder.

"Hurry up, Twilight! We can't miss our train!" The two then began to walk towards the train while Boba continued watching.

"This is goin to be a real treat. Princess Cadance said she never seen the crystal ponies so excited."

"Well duh!" Rainbow spoke as she flew next to Applejack. "Of course they excited. Their up for the Equestria Games! It's only the biggest sporting event in all Equestria!" Rainbow yelled as she flew on top of a house.

"Didn't Cloudsdale host the Equestria Games one year?" Rarity spoke up causing Rainbow head to bow in sadness.

"No. Cloudsdale should have hosted it. I will never forget when I got the news." Rainbow spoke as she landed on the ground to join  her friends as well appear to go a memory trip.

Boba watched as she suddenly perked up. " These Crystal Ponies lost a thousand years to an evil king's curse. They've had enough bad news. No way we're letting them experience the pain of losing out on these games."

Twilight walked over and placed her hand on Rainbow shoulder with a smile. "Exactly. Princess Cadance is counting on us to do our part to convince the Games Inspector to choose the Crystal Empire. And we are not gonna let her down. Are we?"

Pinkie suddenly dropped to her knees and began yelling causing her friends to stared at her. "NOOOOOOOOOOOO!" She stopped when she saw her friends staring at her. "What? I was just answering Twilight's question."

Boba watched as they smiled and started laughing while they boarded the train. Once he was satisfied they were on he slowly stood up staring down at the train in thought. 'The surprises never cease.' He watched as the train began to take off. Moving quickly he activated his jetpack and flew towards the train. Finding a perfect spot where he would be unseen he activated his wrist blades on his arm gauntlets and stabbed them into the train securing him so he wouldn't fall off. 'Guess it's time for more information.'

Chapter Four

'Maybe getting an empty room would have been better.' Boba thought as he felt the strong wind blowing against him nearly knocking him off.

Along the way though he couldn't help but admire the scenery as they passed. Boba watched as they got closer to what appeared to be a castle off in the distance though it seemed to be made out of crystal. 'That might be worth a fortune.'

"Four, three, two, one! The Crystal Empire, that's the one!" The girls shouted while Boba just listened to them though it got annoying hearing them go over the same damn routine for the twentieth time. He could hear them cheering or whatever the hell they were doing. He couldn't see them.

"Okay, everypony, great job! Sounds like we're ready." Why the hell did it sound like she was speaking through a megaphone?

"One more time from the top." Boba groaned along with the other ponies.

"Oh, please! I think that was perfect." No shit.

"But we've run this, like, twelve times already. I think we've got it." Ok so maybe he exaggerated how many times they went over it.

"Cadance said the Games Inspector really puts folks through the wringer on her visits. There's no margin for error here. And this time we need to practice the steps."

'They weren't practicing the steps!' Boba thought in annoyance not sure he could take the song again.

"On a train car?" Please say no. Please say no.

"You heard the pony! On your hooves!"

'That pony dies.' Boba thought in anger.

"Two, four, six, eight-" They were caught off letting out screams as the train brakes squealed. Boba hanged onto the train tighter as he felt his body moving. The train finally stopped causing Boba to let out a sigh of relief.

"Crystal Empire, ladies! Watch your step leaving the train!" Boba heard from what he assumed was the train Conductor.

"Probably should've watched our step while we were still on it, too." Boba let out a slight chuckle as he heard them coming out of the train. Boba watched them as they walked even as the train began to move again. Seeing his chance to not be seen he flew over towards the building they were standing at where he landed but making sure to stay low so not to be seen.

"Wow! The Crystal Empire looks crystallier than ever!"

'Crystallier?' Boba thought as he flew up to the clouds landing on one then proceeded to the next one and next one trailing them though it wasn;t hard considering they weren't sparkling like the other ponies.

"They must have everypony in the Empire out sprucing it up!"

"This must be why we were asked to handle the welcome committee routine."

"And it's probably also because we'll be awesome at it." Rainbow spoke while two young ponies ran through them holding flags with big smiles on their faces.

"Princess Cadance was right. These ponies do look pretty darn excited."

Rainbow flew over picking up one of the children and held her in the air. "Yup, I remember that feeling." Boba watched as her face frowned as she sat the kid down. "But not as much as I remember the crushing wave of disappointment that came when things didn't work out."

'Way to make a kid sad.' Boba thought as he watched the kid frowned and looked ready to cry.

"That right there. That is the face I do not want to see." Rainbow spoke as she pointed at the kid causing the others to agree only for them to be picked up by Twilight magic and carried off.

Boba only shook his head as he followed them to a building with heart symbols on it. Boba flew over landing on top of it crouching down he listened in the building.

"We're here."

"There are my girls." A new voice spoke.

"Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!" Boba could only chuckle at the funny song.

'These ponies are something.'

"Oh, my. This is spectacular. Please, everypony, stand back! I need air!"

'That pony is a drama queen.' Boba never did like those as they always blow things way out of proportion and that seemed to be what she was doing.

"Go ahead and try whatever you like. It's all complimentary for the welcome committee."

Boba then heard ms drama queen giggle. 'Definitely annoying.'

"That over there is a crystal mud bath, which relaxes your body and rejuvenates your coat. Now, I realize it can be kind of strange to climb into mud, but if you'll just give it a chance, I'm sure–"

"Woo-hoo!" Somepony yelled causing Boba to flinch from the loud sound that was multiplied in his helmet. 'God dang it!' Boba ears rang for a little bit but he was able to hear again.

"Ahh, so relaxing!"

'I'll show you relaxing when you tied up and pushed down a hill.'

Boba listened again, but all he heard was deep breathes.

"Go ahead, have a good time while I get my ceremonial headdress done."

"Ceremonial... headdress?" Rarity asked with enthusiasm in her voice.

"When meeting with important guests, it was a tradition for rulers of the Crystal Empire to weave crystals into their manes in a very specific way. The Games Inspector is known for doing her homework. She'll certainly be expecting my look to reflect the importance of her visit."

'That inspector might actually give me a hand in capturing one of them.' Boba stopped his train of thought as he heard the door open again.

"Princess, if I may have a word... I-I have two pieces of news for you. First, your mane stylist has the flu and won't be able to make it for fear of you catching it, too."

"Oh. Well... I hope she's better soon. Do any of the other stylists here know how to do the traditional royal ceremonial headdress?"

"Um... well... uh...no."

'You got to be kidding. They worked here and only one knows how to do the headdress?'

"Oh.......Just a... small detail."

"Whoa, whoa, whoa! You're trying to land the Equestria Games here. There is no such thing as a small detail!"

"Rainbow Dash!" Twilight scolding at her friend.

"I suppose... I could give it a shot." Ms drama queen spoke up again.

" Oh, Rarity, you would do that for me?"

"Way to step it up, Rare!"

'Do all of them love to yell?' Boba thought. The only two who haven't yelled was the yellow pegasus known as Fluttershy and the one known as Applejack.

"Fortunately, I have all the precise instructions right here."

"Oh, my!" Drama queen.

"You sure you're up to this?"

"Working on the hair of royalty on such an auspicious occasion is the opportunity of a lifetime! I will give it everything I've got!"

"See? No worries!"

"Besides, the Games Inspector isn't expected for several hours. I'll have plenty of time to figure out exactly how to... do... this..."

"Oh, Rarity, that's wonderful! You said you had a second bit of news?"

'That second sentence must be addressed to the other pony.'

"Yes, quite. The Games Inspector, Ms. Harshwhinny, will be arriving on the... next train."

Boba chuckled as the ponies gasped. 'They really do have bad luck.'

"What!? You couldn't have told her that news first!? That's fifteen minutes from now!" Dang she is loud.

"Oh, my goodness!" So the shy one does speak softly.

"How long before Cadance is ready?"

"Hmmmm... I'm sure to find some shortcuts."

"Can you have her back at the castle when we're done?"

"Done."

"Okay, we'll be fine. Everypony, just be on the look out for the pony with the flower print luggage." Boba stopped listening in when he saw five of his targets exit the building. This would be a good time to capture one of the two inside. Boba glanced back over to the five who were walking further away. His eyesight remained on the yellow one known as Fluttershy. Boba quickly activated his jetpack and flew after them once he reached the clouds above. As he glanced down he saw Pinkie jumping up and down.

"Easy peasy, pudding in the freezy!"

What?

"We bring the Games Inspector back to the castle, put on our big welcome committee how-do-you-do and then..."

"Put the pudding out to thaw before you eat it or you'll crack a tooth?"

'Strange one.'

"I'll just ignore that. We need to remember that the Games Inspector arriving early is probably part of a plan to psych us out."

"What do you mean?" Twilight asked her Rainbow while looking at while she hovered over her.

"You said it yourself. She's got a rep for trying to catch hosts off-guard, just to see if we can handle the kind of massive pressure that comes with hosting the Equestria Games." Rainbow pointed out causing her friends to look at each other.

"Oh, no... We're gonna blow it..." Fluttershy spoke out.

"Not if we always stay one step ahead and don't fall for any of her mind games. Anything she throws at us, we just need to remember she's testing us and roll with it."

'I have to say...this has been an interesting job I have ever done. I also have a target unless I find someone else.' Boba thought as he simply followed them to the train station. The whole trip was silent as they arrived just as the train was pulling up. From what Boba saw was only two mares got off including the one with the bag matching the description.

Looking down at the mare he saw she had a green mane and tail. Her fur was a tan color. Her clothing consisted of a pink shirt and a short skirt that went down to her knees. On her face were a pair of red glasses.

'This outta be good.' Boba thought in amusement as he watched the six approach the mare.

"Excuse me, ma'am?" Rainbow spoke causing the mare to turn around while also lowering her glasses.

"Yes, what is it?" Her voice sounded like she was irritated to Boba.\

"Oh no."

"Be cool. Well, I know you're not expecting us, but we're here to personally welcome you to the Crystal Empire." Twilight smiled nervously.

"The whole lot of you came to do that?" She asked with her eyes narrowing.

"Uh, well, um... yes!" Twilight managed to speak out after studdering.

The mare eyes narrowed more and more until she smiled. "Well, darn tootin', ain't that the cat's meow!" The mare ran over and shook hands with them. "Y'all didn't need to do that. Why, I hardly expected anything like this."

Boba just zoned out on them with a bored look on his face. 'Not much information gathering here.' He thought as he flew off after them. He just watched as they tried to impress the pony.

He followed them everywhere though it turned out to be a waste of time. Though it turned out good when he saw Twilight break away from the group. 'Excellent. Just need to find the perfect time to strike.' Boba thought as he followed Twilight only to back where he was original.

Boba sighed as he landed on the building attempting to hear the conversation only for to walk out again. Back to the castle. 'I never had this much difficulty with my other contracts! Why can't any of them just be in a spot for me to collect!'

Boba sighed as he listened to the ponies again though not really paying attention to their conversation. "Shining Armor."

Boba immediately perked up at that. 'Finally.'

Boba followed after Twilight to what appeared to be a gymnasium. Quickly landing in a cloud, he glanced down while zooming in to see other heat signatures. He couldn't hear what they were saying from this distance. Growling he stood up getting ready to jump down when he saw other heat signatures appear. He watched as there was chaos everywhere with the pony from earlier bursting through the doors which she was soon followed by the others. Boba flew off after them while turning his heat vision off his helmet. Boba landed in a cloud just as Rainbow was sent flying. He didn't pay any attention to anypony else but his final target, Shining Armor.

'So this was the captain of the Royal guard.' Boba thought as he watched the group. Only to sigh as they run off again then proceeded to followed them all through the empire all the way back to where it began. Boba landed on the building and began to listen in. Oh, so the mare wasn't the inspector. He listened to them apologizing only for them to let out cheers as the real inspector told them the Crystal Empire would be hoisting the Equestria Games. As they cheered Boba turned on his thermal vison and smiled beneath his helmet when he saw it was just the two mare and his targets. 'Time for the move.' Boba thought as he sat his weapon to stun. Once it was he flew down to the front door and opened it. Walking through he closed it behind himself.

Boba watched as the ponies all turned towards him with curious glances while Shining Armor eyes widened. "You..."

Boba quickly raised his rifle and fired at them. All of his shots slammed into them knocking them out or just unable to move. Satisfied he walked over towards the ponies towards which one he was bringing with him. Aiming he fired his fibercord whip and watched as it wrapped up Fluttershy. Lowering his gauntlet he walked towards her only to stop as he felt a hand grab his right ankle. Glancing down he saw Shining Armor struggling to get up. "N.....no.'

Boba just stared down at him then raised his rifle and slammed the buttstock onto Shining head knocking him out. 'Sorry your 'majesty'. But I have a job that I intend to collect.' Boba thought as he carried Fluttershy bride style making sure not to hurt her or cause discomfort as he walked towards the exit. Once outside Boba fire off his jetpack and flew towards the destination of his pickup.

As he flew, Boba glanced down at his target to see she was asleep. She had a peaceful expression on her face as the sun shined on her. Boba sighed underneath his helmet. It was a job........so why did he still feel guilty about it still? He knew though that his conscious would just fade away like all the other times they did........just like other times.......he knew.

Chapter Five

Boba once satisfied he gained enough distance stopped as he landed in a small forest of some kind. As he walked over towards a tree he checked his HUD to see exactly how far the crystal empire was. Glancing at the calculating miles his thoughts drifted towards his captive as he sat her against the tree with her back leaning against. 'Hard to imagine a shy one like her is one of the elements of harmony.' Boba thought as he stood to his full height after checking to make sure she was alright. Glancing down at his HUD he saw that he was one hundred miles away at this point.

'Good. It would be wise to rest here so I don't overheat my equipment.' Boba thought as he looked up to see the stars already coming out with the moon shining through the trees lighting the area slightly.

Boba turned his head as he heard groaning coming from his captive. Glancing at her, he saw she was waking up slightly. Boba watched as her eyes opened and for them to widened as she looked up at him. Looking closer he saw she was shivering in fear as she stared at him. Boba felt another stab at his heart as he stared at the mare, but he shook it off as he approached her causing her to flinch in fear. Boba had to try harder to push the guilt away this time.

"Who....are you?"

Boba didn't answer and instead crouched down in front of her. If it wasn't for his helmet, he probably wouldn't have heard what she asked. "It doesn't matter who I am. I will tell you that you are my prisoner now." Boba spoke coldly causing her to shake even more.

"Please.....let me go." Fluttershy spoke with tears forming in her eyes.

Boba heart clenched again. "Sorry mare. My employer has paid me good bits to bring you to them. Dead or alive."

The mare only had more tears formed as they slowly began to drip down her face. "So I suggest if you want to remain alive you better behave. Understood?" Boba asked with an icy tone in his voice trying to make the mare agree and be fearful of him though it still felt wrong.

Fluttershy slowly nodded her head yes even as tears slowly poured down her face. Satisfied with her answer, he stood up causing her to flinch thinking he was going to hit her. "I'm going to set up camp. Don't think of trying to escape. I will find you." Boba spoke as he turned and began to set up camp while the mare simply laid there against the tree crying wishing she was with her friends.

Boba didn't really do much to set up camp  He didn't want to start a fire as it would draw attention to himself. He was lucky it wasn't cold. All he had to do was go into the forest for food though he made sure to keep his sights on the mare though he highly doubted she free herself from the wire wrapped around her. It was still better safe than sorry. After checking the berries he picked weren't poisonous Boba walked back to Fluttershy who had finally stopped crying though there were still tear streaks on her face. Boba ignored his guilt as he walked over towards her while pulling out his knife causing the mare to tense up. "Remeber what I said about running." Was all he said as he cut the wire letting her free while the mare just stared at him in question.

"Thank you."

"Here. Eat." Boba handed her some of the berries while also keeping some for himself. Setting a distance away he simply watched his surroundings though he mostly watched her on his HUD. "Umm......"

Boba turned his head around to stare at her. "Thank you.....for the berries."

Boba just nodded his head was not speaking prompting silence once more. Fluttershy yawned causing him to look at her. Boba stood up and walked towards her sitting down by her causing her to eep. Boba pulled some wire out. "Hold your arms up."

Fluttershy did allowing Boba to wrap the wire around her which he soon wrapped around himself. "Get some sleep. We have a long road ahead of us."

Fluttershy shook her head yes slightly though in seconds she was passed out. Boba waited for a good ten minutes to ensure she was asleep. Once he was sure he raised his hands to his helmet and removed it to reveal his face. He had dark black hair cut short. His eyes were a dark brown. What was most distinguishing was the three scars that were coming from his forehead down over his right eye to his chin? Boba slowly popped one of the berries into his mouth and chewed savoring the sweet taste of them. He glanced over at his captive and sighed. Once he was done he slipped his helmet back over his face and leaned back against the tree next to the mare while holding his rifle in his hands. 'The pay will be good then it will be right back to more bounties.' Boba thought as he slowly drifted off.

Boba awoke only to find himself in darkness. An absolute darkness. 'Strange. I was in a forest.'

"Indeed you were scum!" A voice shouted causing Boba to reach for his rifle only to find himself weaponless as there was a bright flash causing Boba to shield his eyes with his arms even with his helmet. Once the brightness was gone he slowly lowered his arms only to be shocked at what he saw.....or who he saw.

A mare with a dark blue fur stared at him with narrowed eyes. Her tail and mane was blue though it had a wavy feel to it with stars aligning it. She was also wearing a blue dress that a symbol the moon on the center. "Princess Luna. What a pleasure."

"Enough!" Her voice shook the entire place.

'So I am asleep.'

"Hand over our friend!"

"Sorry Princess. She's my captive now."

Luna eyes narrowed. "You are playing a dangerous game hunter."

"I play to win."

"This is one you will not win. You really think her friends will let you get away with this?"

"You and their compliance isn't really a factor. I have already won."

Luna was silent though her eyes were narrowed at Boba. "You a scum. You willing to hurt an innocent mare just for bits."

"Life is tough Princess, but I haven't hurt her......if she remains cooperative."

"You don't know the game you play. I will see you pay for this hunter.......and your employer if you do not release Fluttershy now."

"Keep your empty threats to yourself, Princess. I have a contract to fulfill."

"Very well hunter but know this......The entire guard are coming for you as well her friends. How long you think you can hide?"

Boba sighed underneath his helmet. "Will you just give up. You don't even know where I am-"

"South of Water Thirst." Luna interrupted him while his eyes widened beneath his helmet.

"Very good observation. Though you don't know the exact location." Boba replied with a calm tone trying to show he still had control in this. "Make no mistake Princess. If any of you come for her I will have no problem putting a blaster bolt through her skull. Whether she is dead or alive I am getting paid. I'm making the rules now." Boba spoke with an icy tone in his voice trying to show he meant business while Luna eyes narrowed.

"You hurt our friend and you will pay." Boba suddenly felt a great pain his chest as he felt it was literally being crushed from the inside. Luna suddenly appeared in front of his face with narrowed eyes. "I am not as nice as my sister. I will do anything for my friends." Boba felt the pressure in his chest increase. Boba stared at Luna whose horn glowed brightly as she aimed it at him.

"No peaceful sleeps for you." Luna spoke as the spell slammed into Boba.

Boba quickly sat up panting as he placed a hand on his chest. He was breathing quickly and tried to slow it down. Eventually, he was able to calm his breathing and glanced over at Fluttershy who was still sleeping. Boba glanced back up into the night sky at the moon. 'Things have just got......intersting.'

Chapter Six

For the rest of the night, Boba tried to sleep. Princess Luna following through with her threat caused never ending nightmares on the bounty hunter. The nightmares consisted of him being dipped in boiling hot lava or other cruel tortures. They wouldn't bother him so much if it wasn't for the fact he could feel every injury only to wake up with no bruises or marks. 'It seem's she's not just a pretty face.'

Boba glanced up to the sky to see the sun had risen. 'Better start moving.' Boba thought as he stood up while cutting the wire that was wrapped around himself towards his captive. He slowly unwrapped the wire that was around her. Reaching a hand down, he gently shook the pegasus on the shoulder. She stared for a second then her eyes slowly opened up while Boba face was just an inch away from hers. Boba stared at her underneath his helmet as she let out a loud eep and jumped not fly but jumped into the tree she was leaning against causing leaves to fall off.

'That was actually cute and funny.' Boba thought in amusement as he flew up next her. Glancing he saw she was shaking and literally hanging on the tree branch with her arms and legs wrapped around it.

"Let's go mare."

Fluttershy just continued to hold the branch causing Boba eye's to narrow.

"You can let go or your dead body can let go." Boba spoke to her in an emotionless voice causing the mare to open her eyes while staring at him with fear in her eyes. Boba felt his heart clench again at her eyes that had terror in them, but he pushed it aside thinking it was just another thing Luna was using as a form of torture on him. "Hold still."

Boba walked over towards the mare and instead of wrapping her body up, he began to wrap the wire around her wings. Once he was sure that she wouldn't be able to use them he stepped back with a satisfaction look underneath his helmet while the mare just stared at her wings with a look of.........discomfort. She glanced over at him. "Those are not coming off. I honestly don't care if you are not comfortable." Boba quickly spoke as if he read her mind. Fluttershy only hung her head down as tears were beginning to form in them.

The two didn't say anything as Boba lowered themselves down from the tree. Upon landing, he quickly let go of her. "Move." Boba motioned with his rifle towards the direction of where they were going. Fluttershy having no choice walked beside him.

'Walking is going to make this trip longer.' Boba thought as he stared up at the sky for any sign of guard, pegasus or anything that looked like they were working with the royal guard. Flying would leave them out in the open where they could easily be seen. Walking through this forest would help hide them. The problem after that is how would he hide them walking through the open? Boba continued thinking of way's how he could that without attracting the guard........and bandits. He wouldn't be surprised if he ran into some out here. Always looking for ways to find bits.

Isn't that what you do?

'No. I bring everything to justice. If they die they deserve it.'

Does this mare deserve to die just for bits. Does she look guilty of anything?

'It doesn't matter. She.....Why am I arguing with myself?' Boba thought while also taking a glance at Fluttershy out of the corner of his eye.

Because you know its wrong.

'.......The first thing I do when I get paid is see a phycologist.' Boba thought in annoyance. This job might actually be affecting him now.'

Silence. The voice or himself if Boba would even call it that was gone. Now focusing back to the matter at hand. Zooming on his HUD Boba saw they were nearing the end of the forest and the good news was the fact that the desert was just ten miles away after exiting the forest Boba guessed as he zoomed out. This day seems to be going too good if you take out the lack of sleep. There were no animals stalking them or investigating them. What really drew his attention was the fact he had not seen one guard or anypony in the air. 'Strange.'

The two were near the edge when Boba suddenly held his hand out causing the mare to stop though she ran into his hand. Where it landed caused her to eep and back away with a red face. Though she couldn't see it, Boba face was red as a cherry when he realized his hand landed on her breast. Shaking his thoughts clear he stared out into the open field. Switching to thermal, he scanned all around the area searching for anything with a body heat. The whole time he had his eyes narrowed as he didn't see anything even when he glanced up towards the clouds and only saw birds and other small creatures. 'Nothing.' Boba thought with narrow eyes as he turned his thermal off.

Turning towards the mare next to him, he motioned with his rifle for to walk. The two were soon walking across the open field towards the desert. The whole time Boba was glancing at his HUD looking for any motion or sounds. 'Strange. No sign of bandits here.' As the thought left his mind Boba immediately moved to the side while also shoving the mare down with him. The spot where he was standing had a spear sticking out of the ground.

'So my hunch was right. Bandits cleared out when royal guards came here.' Boba thought as he stood up and stared straight at ten guards. All pegasus's judging by the wings. 'Ten is just insulting.'

"Drop your weapons and surrender the element bearer of kindness." One of the guards spoke while also grabbing his spear.

Boba simply glanced at them while they just held their weapons pointing at him. "I reckon you fellows step aside unless you want to get hurt." Boba spoke with an icy tone hoping to intimidate them to avoid a confrontation.

"Drop your weapons!"

The two sides stared at each other with neither backing down. "One."

The guards slowly began to approach him while keeping their eyes on him.

"Two."

"Get him!"

"Three." Boba raised his rifle along with his pistol strapped to his side that he always kept hidden. Taking quick aim, he fired into the knees of them in rapid succession causing them to fall to the ground in pain. "I gave you a warning."

Turning away from the injured guards he walked over towards his captive who was running at him? She tried to rush past him only to be stopped by him grabbing her arm. "Lets go."

"Those ponies are hurt."

"That's their fault. Now move!"

"You listen here buster! I don't care how tough you are! You don't go and hurt anypony!"

Boba took a step back in surprise by the timid mare who was glaring straight into his helmet face to face. 'So she does have courage.' He thought as he stared at her eyes that were narrowed at him.

"You got that?"

Boba raised his rifle up at the mare causing her to immediately shrink back in fear. "What I got is that if you don't move, I am going to put a hole straight through your gut then carry your carcass through the desert." Boba spoke with as much venom in his voice as he could trying to intimidate the mare which was working as he saw she was shaking. "Now move."

Boba heard beeping coming from his HUD. Glancing down he saw something coming towards him at a high speed. He suddenly felt something slammed into him dragging him a few feet off the ground. Boba watched as he was getting further and further away from his target. He watched as he was suddenly picked into the air then slammed onto the desert sand being dragged by whatever was on top of him. Trying to see who it was but couldn't as the thing was slamming it's fist into his helmet repeatedly. "YOU THINK YOU CAN THREATEN MY FREIND!?"

Boba was able to push the thing off sending her skidding across the sand causing it be sprayed everywhere while he was also skidding. His jetpack was shooting off flames. Boba came to stop while his jetpack flew off his back flying around the air for a few minutes before finally slamming into the ground a hundred yards way from him. Boba slowly rose to his feet steadily as his vision was a little unbalanced. Glancing over at the object that slammed into him he was a little surprised. Getting to her feet while glaring at him was Rainbow Dash.

"I'm surprised you came after me."

"You had my friend! I'm not going to let you get away with it!"

'You really don't have a choice.' Boba thought in amusement as he raised his rifle only for her to dash right at him.

What.

Rainbow foot slammed into his chest knocking him a few feet back while also causing him to drop his rifle. Quickly rolling to the side to avoid the foot that slammed into the sand, Boba spun on his legs kicking her feet out from underneath her. Boba quickly rose to his feet only to be kicked in the chin knocking him back to the ground. Glancing up he saw the mare had jumped into the air and was coming down at him with her fist poised to strike him. Thinking quickly he rose to his feet and threw a uppercut that slammed into the mare chin knocking her backwards onto her back. Seeing he the advantage he pulled his pistol out and aimed it at the mare who was slowly getting to her feet. Boba eyes narrowed as he slowly squeezed down on the trigger intending to blast the mare in the head.

"STOP!"

The voice of Fluttershy caused Boba to look over as the blaster bolt shot out of the pistol and missing the mare's head by an inch. Glancing at the owner of the voice he saw it was Fluttershy who was running towards them or more specifically Rainbow. Boba watched as she hugged the mare who was struggling to get up. "Rainbow stay down."

"Fluttershy! Are you ok? Did this creep hurt you!?"

Boba scoffed as he began to walk over towards them while keeping his weapon aimed at the two.

"BACK OFF! You are not getting Fluttershy!"

"You don't really have a say so mare." Boba aimed his pistol once more only for the Fluttershy to get in front of his aim.

"Fluttershy Move!"

Boba narrowed his eyes at them. "You do remember that I can also bring anyone of you in dead and still get paid."

"Fluttershy move!" Rainbow got to her feet only to fall back down.

"I will give you the count to three mare and then you both die."

Fluttershy just narrowed her eyes at him.

"One."

"Hey leave her alone!"

"Two."

"You can't can you?" Fluttershy asked causing Boba to stop counting while his eyes widened.

"Fluttershy! He will do it! Run!"

"This whole time you could have killed anyone of us but didn't. So why?"

Boba just stared at the mare while also messing with his pistol in his right hand as he stared at the two mares. "Three.'

"Fluttershy move!" Rainbow shouted as she shoved her friend out of the way as she was hit causing her to collapse to the ground not moving.

"Rainbow!"

Boba quickly aimed over at her and fired causing her to collapse to the ground unmoving as well. He stood there staring at the two mare's bodies for what seemed minutes before sighing and walked over towards where his jetpack was. Picking it up he saw it was fine physically. Strapping it to his back he turned it on to see if it would work. It took a second later than it normally does as he flew over to the mare's after picking his rifle up. Walking over towards the Fluttershy he gently picked her body up. Glancing down at the element bearer of loyalty body for a few minutes he turned and blasted off towards his destination which was still a long way to go.

Chapter Seven

Boba flew the area as fast as he could through he was being slowed down by cargo. By cargo, he meant this mare body he was carrying in his arms. Normally it wouldn't bother him but his jetpack was going off and on for seconds almost causing him to crash. He wanted to get to the destination as soon as possible. The question was whether he kept going and risk he jetpack breaking or stop to see if he can fix it. Another tug causing him to nearly to crash into the ground only for his jetpack to turn back on. 'That answers that question.' Boba thought as he glanced around for a suitable hiding spot.

'It's a damn desert! What am I looking for exactly? An all paid vacation to Hawai? At least it can't get any worse.' Boba thought.

As the words echoed in his mind, the sand began to pick up which soon began to be blown harder as it began to slowly turn into a sandstorm. 'Damn you Murphy's law.' Boba thought as his vision was soon becoming harder to see as the sand was covering his vision. Glancing over he happened to see something that would provide shelter and hide him. Flying over he landed outside the entrance of it. Walking in he switched his thermal on to look for any life signatures but saw none. Satisfied, he turned his thermal off while walking into the cave. Placing Fluttershy body against the wall, he turned towards the boulder that was near the cave entrance. Placing his hands against it, he began to push it towards the entrance blocking it off. Once he was done he pulled out a torch only to stop when he saw the area lighten up by strange glowing things on the ceiling.

'Glowing seaweeds or something. Seems this world always throw a curveball when you think you know it all.' Boba thought as he sat down next to Fluttershy after tying her up so she wouldn't be able to move once she woke up.

Boba leaned his back against the wall as he stared at the mare. "You can't can you."

The mare's words rang in his head. "This whole time you could have killed anyone of us but didn't. So why?"

'Why didn't I?'

You would have felt guilty for harming them.

'I harmed many others. So why would they be any different?'

You only threatened others.

'Still doesn't change the fact that I killed.'

You gave them a chance to surrender and defended yourself when they attacked.

'I only wanted them alive cause they are worth more alive.' Boba growled at the voice.

You don't believe that.

'Shut up.'

Deep down you know it's true.

'Shut up.'

What scares you is that you know it.

'I SAID SHUT UP!' Boba stood up in anger while panting really hard.

'I am the most feared bounty hunter in all of Equestria! I kill when it is worth more! I bring them in alive when it pays more! So don't pretend you know me!' Boba shouted in his mind.

He stood there panting waiting for the voice to say something, but he heard nothing causing him to let out a sigh as he sat down leaning his back against the cave wall. That damn voice was driving him nuts. He honestly couldn't wait when he completed this contract. Boba reached behind his back and unslung his jetpack laying it down in front of him just as it shot out a small flame burst. Boba just stared at it for a moment then sighed and pulled out tools. 'This might take longer than I thought.' Boba thought as he opened the circuit board to the jetpack.

For hours it seemed he worked on it. He had to rewire the circuits in it as the crash caused them to be rewired and knocked out of place slightly. So he had to reattach them though that left him with a few shock of electricity. Once it was done he closed the circuit board and strapped the jetpack back on. 'That should work now.' Boba thought.

His HUD suddenly beeped alerting him to movement deeper in the cave. Quickly rising to his feet he aimed his rifle down towards the movement while switching to his thermal searching for anything alive in here. 'I'm not seeing anything on the thermal.'

Just as the movement appeared it was gone causing Boba to frown inside his helmet while switching off his thermal though still keeping an eye on his HUD. He turned when he heard a groan coming from his captive. He watched as her eyes slowly opened and slowly took her surroundings in. Boba saw her eyes became full of fright. He stepped towards her causing her eyes to look over at him. He watched as they went from fright to anger. 'No doubt she thinks I killed her friend.'

The mare just stared at him with her eyes narrowed. Boba watched as tears began to form in them. She turned her eyesight to the ground where her tears began splashing the ground. "I told you that I would kill her. Be lucky I spared you." Boba spoke as he turned.

"I was wrong."

Boba stopped as he heard her spoke. 'What?'

Turning back to the mare with a raised eyebrow. "What did you mean by that?"

Fluttershy looked backed up at him with her bloodshot eyes while tears dripped down her face. "I thought you were good. No pony can be cruel for no reason."

Boba eyes widened slightly underneath his mask. 'Is she serious?' Boba thought with amusement.

"You not cruel or evil. I saw your actions that you weren't cruel or evil *hiccup* Now my friend paid for my mistake with my life."

Boba just stared down at the mare. Fluttershy couldn't see it but Boba was slightly unraveled at her thinking him not cruel. He just stared down at the mare as she sobbed. Why did it feel like his heart just suddenly tightened?

Does this mare deserve what you have done to other criminals?

Boba didn't answer back at all only stared at the mare.

Did those criminals cry for others like she is doing? She doesn't care for her wellbeing but for her friends. Is this a criminal?

Boba stared at the mare for a few more minutes before sighing and walking over towards her while pulling out his knife. Once he reached her he cut the wire off her causing her to glance up at him with her red eyes. "Let's go mare." It's time to collect my pay and be done with this."

Fluttershy rose to her feet and followed him towards the cave entrance where Boba moved the boulder out of the way to see the sandstorm had passed. Turning back to the mare he motioned for her to stand next to him. Once she was he grabbed her and blasted off towards his destination which was only a few minutes away. The whole time there was silence though Boba kept glancing at her. Boba glanced ahead to see trees surrounding a small puddle of water. 'We're here.'

The two landed by the puddle with Boba keeping his hand on Fluttershy shoulder so she couldn't move anywhere. Boba stared at his Hud looking for any movement. He saw only one signature approaching them. Turning towards the direction he saw his client. Fluttershy began shaking in fear as she saw who it was. "Chrysalis."

The changeling queen wore a black robe with edges lined in the same emerald green as her eyes, both contrasting her dark, ebony skin. Boba had his eyes narrowed at the queen as she approached. That and the movement he saw on his HUD while also zooming around to see changelings fluttering about. "That's close enough." Boba spoke causing the queen to stop a few feet away from him.

"My my. The famous Boba Fett is much more impressive in person." Chrysalis spoke while she licked her lips with her serpentine tongue. It took all Boba willpower not to shiver though the same couldn't be said for Fluttershy who was shivering more.

"Where's the bits you promised." Boba spoke getting down to business while Chrysalis just frowned at him.

"Yes as I promised. A question first hunter."

Boba stared at her. "A question of mine first. What do you plan to do with the mare?"

Chrysalis turned her attention to the mare and smiled showing off her fangs. Boba knew that kind of smile. It held nothing but plans for misery and death. "Why....I am going to make her suffer and let her have the honor of *chuckles* being a toy for my children."

Fluttershy immediately latched on Boba shivering while he just had his eyes narrowed at the queen.

'So I was right.' Boba thought in disgust.

"Now back to my question."

Boba didn't say a word but motioned for to go on while he watched the changelings pulling out weapons. Some wielding spears or swords. 'I don't think they are here just as guards.'

"How would you like to serve as my right hand?"

What?

"Think of it. While settle for just bits? I can give you anything in the world. Mares....pleasure and even more bits."

Boba was slightly surprised that he didn't say a word causing the changeling queen to smirk thinking she won him over.

"All you have to do is help me kill Princess Luna and Celestia."

Boba was silent then finally spoke. "No. Give me the bits you promised me and we go our separate ways." Boba glanced down at Fluttershy who was staring up at his helmet with a pleading look as tears fell down her face.

Does she deserve this?

Boba ignored the voice and glanced back up at the queen who was frowning. "Very well. As was promised." She made a motion with her hand.

Boba watched as two changelings approached with a chest. Boba had his eyes on them in cases they tried anything. "You award hunter."

Boba walked over towards the chest as he watched a changeling behind him on his HUD was preparing to charge at him. 'Distract the person from the front and come for the kill from behind. Clever.'

Boba stared down at the chest and tensed his body as he saw the changeling charging at him from behind. He waited until he was a few feet away from him when he moved. Sidestepping the changeling stabbed its spear through the changeling in front of him. Boba, not wasting time raised his rifle and blasted the two changelings in front causing them to fall dead to the ground with two holes in their heads. He glanced over at the queen who had a sneer on her face. "Consider your contract void." Boba spoke as he kicked the chest where it fell open to reveal nothing inside.

"Such a shame you didn't join hunter."

"Sorry your majesty. I work for bits. Not conquest or sex slaves."

The two stared at each other with neither backing down from the other gaze. "You outnumbered hunter. You can't win."

"True." As the word left his mouth Boba raised his rifle and fired at the queen who simply raised a shield around her causing the blaster bolt to slam into it.

"Kill him."

Boba soon heard buzzing coming around him. His HUD was showing multiple targets. Not bothering to count he raised his rifle while also pulling out his pistol in the other hand and began firing into the swarm. "STAY BEHIND ME!" Boba shouted at Fluttershy.

Boba fire soon began killing them by the tens though he knew they wouldn't be stopped. He watched as they stopped all of sudden. Wondering why he was answered when Royal guards slammed into the changelings. "The surprises never cease."

"FLUTTERSHY!"

Boba immediately fired off his jetpack landing a few feet back as the spot he was standing had one angry farm pony who was glaring straight at him with looks that could kill. Boba saw the other mare's friends there.......even the Rainbow. 'Surprised she's up.'

"Ready for round two!?"

"Be at ease. My contract is void. None of you are my enemy now."

"That is supposed to make us feel better when you kidnapped our friend."

Boba didn't answer but instead glanced up at Chrysalis who appeared to be fighting......."Celestia......and Luna......and Cadence. Do these ponies really mean that much to them?" Boba wondered out loud then shook his head. Time to leave.

Boba tried to blast off only to feel something smash into him knocking him to the ground. Glancing up he saw...."Captain Shining Armor."

The said captain had his sword pointing down at Boba while glaring at the hunter. "You under arrest."

"........." Boba just stared at him then quickly slapped the sword away while slamming his fist into his face knocking him aside. Boba raised his rifle and fired only for Shining Armor to raise a shield. Boba fired repeatedly into the barrier while Shining rushed towards him.

Boba watched as he lowered his shield and slammed his foot into his chest knocking him to the ground. Boba glanced up to see Shining's foot coming down on him. Boba raised his hand catching his foot then twisted it causing Shining to fall to the ground.

'I need to get out of here.' Boba thought as he stood up quickly only to dodge to the side as he saw a magic bolt slam into the ground. Looking up he saw why. 'That wasn't much of a battle.' Boba stared all around to see he was surrounded by guards.

"Drop your weapons and surrender thug!"

Boba glanced over towards the side at Luna who stood next the other princess's and element bearers. All of them were glaring at him while Fluttershy was hiding behind her friends. Cadence and Celestia just stared at him with a neutral expression.

"You have me outnumbered and outgunned," Boba reached towards his side pulling out a thermal detonator. "I have a better idea. You let me go otherwise I blow us all to bits."

The ponies just stared at him not backing down from his threat but not advancing towards him. Boba just narrowed his eyes at them until there was a flash blinded him momentarily. Glancing down he saw the thermal detonator was gone.Before he could even move he felt a spell slam into his chest. Glancing around he saw his vision was slowly fading in and out. Another spell slam into his chest. Boba couldn't keep his eyes open as he slowly began losing his vision with only one thought before passing out.

'Why couldn't the damn queen just pay.'

Chapter Eight

Laughter was heard everywhere. The sun shined brightly upon the grassland. The temperature was perfect. It was neither cold nor hot. It was perfect with a fresh breeze being blown. Clouds of all sizes floated through the cleared sky occasionally blocking the sun. The ground itself was filled with grass that was green with life at its fullest in them. The sound of laughter was one of pure joy. The sound of pure innocence not contaminated by the cruel things in the world. Upon the ground was a blanket lay out across the ground. In the middle was a basket no undoubtedly full of food. Next to it was a large cooler where the cold drink were located. On the blanket sat human adults. Each one looked different from each other. Next to one was a young teen as he laughed at a joke from one of the males. Around the whole area, five children ran around laughing as they chased each other. Then suddenly the sky darkened causing everyone to look around in fear. The adults called to their children while the teen could only watch in horror as a tornado came crashing down on them sucking them up while he remained there. Glancing over he could make out a pony shape figure with glowing eyes.

"Thou shall not have pleasant dreams!" As a giant rock slammed on him by the tornado throwing it.

Boba sat up panting with deep breathes while he placed his hand on his chest trying to slow down his breathing. A peaceful dream only for it to become a nightmare? Well played princess of the moon.......bitch. That was when Boba noticed he was in a cell of some kind. He also saw it appeared to be dark with very little light showing. Boba also could tell and feel his equipment was gone judging by how he wasn't seeing his HUD nor feeling the weight of his equipment. Glancing down he saw his presumption was right. The ponies had at least let him keep his mesh on. Though he also saw they had wrist strapped to chains that were hooked up to the wall behind him. Testing, he saw that he could only walk halfway to the cell doors. 'Clever.'

Boba glanced all around his room searching for any weaknesses in this cell. He couldn't see any, but that didn't mean there weren't none. He stopped his investigating when he heard footsteps coming from down the hallway and muffled voices which Boba knew they were coming from the door entrance down to the dungeon. Backing away until he was leaning against the wall he lowered his head  while closing his eyes and relaxed his breathing giving him the appearance he was sleeping.

"So this the infamous Boba Fett the captain spoke of?" A guard asked as they stared at Boba. "Can't say I'm surprised. What is he anyway?"

"I guess. He doesn't look that impressive, though. Even the princess's don't know what he is." The other guard commented.

'Face me hand to hand or let me have my equipment and I will show you impressive.' Boba thought in anger as he remained still not really caring what they think his race is.

"I guess he is still asleep."

"He could be faking. The captain said this bounty hunter isn't just known for his strength or strange equipment. But also his cleverness."

"Yeah I guess. Well back to patrolling. Also, remember we are all meeting up at the Drunken Pony."

'Drunken Pony?' Boba deadpanned inside his mind.

"Oh I'll be there. Can't miss when you cower before that big minotaur bouncer. HAHA."

"Tch. I'm not afraid. Courage is my middle.....oh never mind."

Boba remained in place until he could no longer hear their footsteps and he slowly opened his eyes and looked up. He glanced around the room not taking a chance to walk around the room they might be close by. 'If I could get these chains off then I might actually be able to get out of here.' Boba thought as he stared at the chains. He stared at them for a good long awhile before laying his head back against the wall with his eyes closed in deep thought.

Boba eyes opened back up as he heard footsteps coming back again. Either it was another guard or the patrols weren't that long. Boba closed his eyes to pretend that he was asleep again but stopped. 'That could actually work.' Boba kept his eyes open just as a guard walked in front of his cell.

'Hope this works.'

The guard walked in front of the cell where the infamous Boba Fett was put in. The guards didn't react to prisoners nor were they allowed to. His curiosity was piqued though when he heard the captain briefed them about the bounty hunter. The guard glanced towards the prisoner only to see him clutching his chest with a hand before falling over to his side and seemed to not breathing anymore. The guard freaked out not knowing what to do. 'Shit! They didn't go over this in training.' The guard kept staring at Boba before deciding to open the cell door and walked to check to see if he had a pulse. The guard raised his hand to the bounty hunter neck only for Boba hand to snap up and grab his wrist. Before the guard could react he felt Boba hand slam right between his legs causing the guard eyes to widen before finally feeling the pain as he collapsed to the ground holding jr. The guard glanced up painfully and the last thing he saw was a boot slamming into his face.

Boba stared down at the guard he knocked out. 'That guard must be right out of training.' Boba thought as he grabbed the keys that were on the guards chest. He quickly undid the chains off his wrists. After rubbing the soreness off, he grabbed the guard body and dragged it off to the side where they wouldn't see it unless they entered the cell. Boba opened the cell door after checking the hallway both ways to ensure there were no one. Satisfied he opened the cell door then turned and closed it while locking it. 'Need to find my equipment.'

Boba crouched down as he moved down the hallways, looking around every corner to look for guards. Boba was able to avoid most of the guards. He honestly didn't know where he was going. He stopped at a corner when he heard a pair of guards talking. "So how was the hunter equipment?"

What.

"We weren't able o figure out how to use it."

'They were trying to use my equipment!? I'll kill them!'

"We placed in the armory room until their majesties decide what to do with it."

Boba scoffed inside his mind. 'Where to find this armory then.' Boba thought as he waited for the two to walk by. 'I think I should have asked that one guard before knocking him out.'

Boba stopped at another corner. Glancing around he saw a guard looking the other way. Next to him was a door of some kind that said cleaning supplies. Boba slowly walked over towards the guard. When he was behind him he quickly threw his right hand over the guard mouth while his left arm wrapped around the guard neck. The guard screams were muffled as he was dragged by the door. Boba began to put pressure on the guard throat choking him. "Tell me where the armory and I won't kill you."

The guard stopped struggling when he felt the pressure leave his throat. Glancing back at Boba, he glared at him. Boba noticing the look tightened his hold suffocating the guard again. Boba kept squeezing the guard till his face turned blue then loosen his hold. "I can keep doing this or you could just tell me where my equipment is."

The guard glanced back at him with slight fear. Boba felt the guard shoulder dropped in shame before pointing at a sign that said armory on it. Satisfied with the answer, Boba slammed the guard head against the wall knocking him out. Boba quickly threw the body inside and closed the door. 'Now time to get my equipment.' Boba thought as he snuck down the hallway towards where his equipment was located.

Boba turned the corner and to his surprise saw the door to the armory. 'Not really a long walk.'

Walking towards the door, he placed a hand against it slowly pushing it open he peeked inside only to see a single guard.....holding his helmet. Boba pushed the door all the way open and walked inside. The guard heard the door open and turned to see who it was only for a fist to hit him knocking him out while dropping the helmet. Boba quickly equipped his gear back on and bent down picking his helmet up. Slipping it back on he spoke. 'Nobody touches my equipment.'

Satisfied with having his equipment he walked out the door only to stop as the guards in front of him stop as well. Boba stared at the two guards while turning his rifle to stun. The guards stared at him with narrowed eyes. Moving before they could react, Boba raised his rifle and fired knocking the two out. Not bothering to hide the bodies he ran down the hallways. Boba kept glancing at his HUD to see where the guards were moving to and avoided that path. He didn't know how long he was moving in the tunnels, but he finally came to a flight of stairs. 'Must e the way out.' Boba ran up towards the stairs to see he was in another set of hallways though these were more bright.

'Must be the castle.' Boba thought only to glance to see twenty guards coming towards his direction. Boba glanced over and moved into a room closing the door behind him. Boba sighed and turned around and to his luck saw a balcony that would lead to his freedom. If it wasn't for the fact his old targets and the Princesse's of the sun and moon were glancing at him. Luna was glaring at him along with the other ponies. Boba glanced at Celestia who had a neutral expression on her face. Boba saw they were sitting at a table with tea?

"Please have a seat. There is room for one more person." Celestia spoke as she took a sip of her tea.

'What now?'

Chapter Nine

Ever been to a room where the tension was so thick that you could cut it with a knife? Boba knew the tension was so thick that he could cut it with a spoon. The two sides just kept glancing at each other while Boba was keeping his finger near his squeeze trigger. Looking closely, he saw the captain hand resting on his sword with his hand twitching. Boba knew he was trying everything he could not to pull his sword out and try to run him through. The keyword 'TRY'. 'I doubt your shield could handle my rifle at full power. Even if you could I have a special grenade for your ears, pretty boy.' Boba thought as his eyes were narrowed at them.

Glancing at the Element bearers, he saw they were glaring at him.....though not Fluttershy. She was hiding behind her friends while giving him a scared look......and something else? The element of loyalty was giving him such a look that if looks could kill.......Boba would be dead then resurrected and dead again.........a million times. She seemed ready to fly at him again. 'Bring it skittles. I would just put you down again.'

Glancing over at Twilight Sparkle he saw she was giving him a glare as well. Though her look also had curiosity. Was it directed at him? Or his equipment? More than likely it was both. They probably had seen him without his equipment. He did wake up without anyway.

"HI!"

Boba blinked when he saw nothing but pink in front of him obscuring his vision. 'How did she get over here without anyone noticing?' Boba thought as he stared at the mare.

"Doyoulikepartieswhydoyouwearthisstrangearmorareyoureallyabountyhunter?"

Boba just stared at the mare with a neutral expression though no one could see it. 'If I choke her to death, how long would it take?' Boba wondered as the mare seemed to go on and on without taking a breath.

"Pinkie!" The said mare was covered in a purple aura before being pulled over to her friends.

"Darling really? You have no idea what that brute would have done to you!" Rarity spoke while glaring straight at Boba.

"Nothing you sillies! The author doesn't want anything to happen me in this chapter!"

What? Boba had a look of complete confusion on his face while the other ponies didn't seemed bothered by it.

"Sister! Why haven't we called the guard to arrest this......monster!"

Boba scoffed causing the moon princess to glance over at him. "I have heard of you Princess. What you did. Do you really have the right to call anyone a monster?"

"Anypony."

Boba just glared over at Pinkie who just had a big smile on her face.

"What did you say?" Though Luna spoke silently the threat was there.

"You heard what I said Princess. You judge me for doing my job."

"You have harmed innocent ponies!" Shining yelled causing everyone to glance over at him while he stood to his feet glaring at Boba. "I have heard all about you bounty hunter. You are quite well known. Though everypony thought it was just a legend to keep ponies from breaking the law so Boba Fett won't hunt them down."

"Are you done? I did my job earning the bits. I did what you and your guards couldn't do. I hunted down criminals bringing them to justice."

"By killing them!"

"That was why you and your guards are weak. You ack the will to kill. I'm actually surprised the changelings or King Sombra didn't kill you all."

"They were defeated by friendship and love. Something that you don't have apparently." Luna spoke.

Boba just gave her a deadpan look. "Really? Where were those when the targets I tracked down killed a family in cold blood just for a hat? Where were those when vengeful ponies killed a family of griffons leaving the father paralyzed and watching as they had their way with his wife and two girls? You all need to wake up. Equestria is not all peaceful and loving as you think."

"They would have been put on trial and sent the dungeons!" Shining argued back.

"Yeah cause my clients would have been pleased to see their loved ones killed while the killers just rotted in a dungeon."

"You really are nothing but a monster." Cadence spoke for the first time.

Boba was silent as he stared at them with his helmet not showing any of his facial expression. "No. I am the one that hunts the monster. A job is a job. You all have one while I have mine."

Everypony was silent as they stared at the hunter. "So why did you come after us then?" Applejack asked with venom in her voice. "Just for bits!?"

"Like I said. A job is a job."

Shining eyes narrowed when he heard that while he drew his sword and Boba raised his rifle at him in turn. "So you still intend to collect the bounty on us."

The group tensed except Celestia who for some reason remained silent. Boba stared at them. "No. What I intend to do is continue my job while also finding that bitch and putting a bolt through her head for betraying me."

"You really are the lowest scum. You have no loyalty to anypony." Rainbow hissed out.

"You really don't believe in friendship?"

"I hold no love for any ruler or country, I seek no friendship as I have no need for it, I am loyal to myself and the bits payed to me for hunting but if those that pay me go back on their word then my loyalty is over too. So don't try to offer me something worthless like friendship but if you need a hunter offer me bits as they are my friends." Boba spoke while also leaving an offer for them. Who knows, someone might want to hire him from canterlot.

"We have no need for you scum. And what makes you think we are just going to let you leave?"

"What says you can stop me?" Boba replied back.

The tension began to grow even more thicker with either side getting ready to launch themselves at the other.

"Mr. Fett please have a seat." Celestia spoke up causing everypony to look over at her.

"Sister you actually expect us to sit here with this thing!"

Boba just stared at Celestia with a look of caution. "I actually have contract for you."

"WHAT!?"

Even Boba was shocked though he didn't shout it out loud like the others did. "I prefer to stand."

"Very well. The contract I'm offering you will be a two thousand bits.......every four months."

"Princess/Sister/Aunt!"

Boba stared at Celestia with a look of caution then he finally answered. "I won't turn over my equipment nor work for the Royal Guard at Canterlot."

"Of course."

Boba stared at her. 'She's up to something.....but I do like bits.'

"I accept your contract. Who do you want dead or alive?"

Celestia took a sip of her tea than answered. "Why no one. Since you accepted the contract you will follow through with it like you said," Celestia smiled. "You will go to ponyville to be a guard for the element bearers."

Boba voice joined with the others this time.

"WHAT!?"

Chapter Ten

Boba along with the ponies glared at Celestia who if felt eyes drilling into her but didn't react to it at all. Then again it was probably just Boba glaring at her while the ponies were just staring at her with a look of confusion. He had to admit she played that very well. He wasn't a part of the royal guard yet he was still guarding.....something he had practically said he wouldn't. Damn his love for bits. So eager to accept a contract just to make money. Young he was, though. Needed the money he did.......well the hell did that come from? Never mind that. What he really wanted was to put a bolt through that bitch head that betrayed him.......and the great moon bitch.

"ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND SISTER!?" Luna shouted with the royal canterlot voice shaking the entire palace while the ponies all cringed from having their ears busted by the tone of it.

'Bet she is a screamer in bed.' Boba thought with humor.

"What do you mean sister?" Celestia asked smiling innocently.......too innocent.

"You know what I mean! You sending this thug to Ponyville to guard your student and her friends!"

"Princess Luna is right. What's to say this brute won't just come after us when somepony offers a bigger bounty?" Rarity asked while glaring at Boba.

'If you all keep insulting me, I might just do it for free.'

"Her majesty is right your majesty. He is simply a......'mercenary' for hire." Shining spoke while saying the word mercenary with the most venom while glaring at Boba.

'So what am I? A thug, a hunter, and mercenary?'

"Yet this mercenary easily beat you and made off with his target. If you blame anyone it might as well be you." Boba spoke.

"Yet this target easily beat you and captured you. If you blame anypony it might as well be you." Shining chirped back.

Boba just deadpanned at the childish comeback of the captain. That was really all he had to say? "Very funny. Last I checked, I took all of you out while it took you and almost the entire guard to get me."

All he got back was a glare. Boba satisfied turned towards Celestia. "I refuse to do it."

Celestia took another sip of her tea. 'Does her teacup not run out?'

"You have the right to Mr. Fett. By all means please leave." Celestia even opend the balcony doors to allow him to fly off.

"You just can't let him leave!"

Boba scoffed at them screaming in protest. 'Try and stop me.'

Boba walked towards his exit. "It would be such a shame if everypony learned Boba failed his contracts."

Boba stopped dead in his tracks while everypony were confused about what she said. 'She wouldn't.'

Boba turned towards the Princess of the sun. "That you failed in two contracts. The horror. What would everypony think?"

'She would.' Boba growled in his head.

"What do you mean Princess?"

"It's quite easy my little pony. Bounty hunters get hired due to their fame they gained from completing contracts. The more contracts you fail the less likely you are going to get hired. And since Mr. Fett here failed two of them...." Celestia trailed off.

'It would ruin me." Boba finished her while also glaring at her.

"Wait hold on! You mean he would basically be considered a rookie all the way from the bottom?" Rainbow asked with a smirk shared by everypony besides Pinkie who was just smiling while Fluttershy was staring at him with....pity?

"Yes." Was all Boba said. The dams broke when the Rainbow mare bust out laughing shared by Applejack.

"HAHAHAHA! That what you get!"

Boba growled while scratching the trigger on his rifle trying so hard not to blast her......on full power.

"Unless Mr. Fett accepts the contract completes it while the other one just seemingly.....disappear."

Boba glared at the Princess of the sun with so much hate and anger. He basically was being told to do this contract or risk having his fame lost and possibly have to start all over again. He did say he wouldn't work for the royal guard which she didn't make him. But he was still just a guard. Boba sighed. He might as well accept the contract to get bits. He will be their guard......though it doesn't mean he had to be nice or friends to them. "Fine Princess. I accept your contract." He could feel the other ponies glaring at him and he didn't care.

"Good. Just in time to. I believe the train is leaving shortly." She glanced over at her prized student who shook her head yes.

"I will meet you all at the train." Was all Boba spoke as he blasted out the window. Boba quickly arrived at the train station startling some of the ponies there. Boba didn't care as he landed and waited for his.....clients. Boba waited silently. He ignored all the ponies glancing at him. Looking on HUD, he could see some royal guards standing as they always did. Though he could see their eyes glaring at him. He knew they couldn't do anything since he hasn't broken any law. It didn't stop them from glaring.

'Demoted from being a hunter to a 'bodyguard.' Boba thought in annoyance. He knew it was his fault, though. His love for bits would bite him one of these days. It still is biting him. Could be worse.......he could be dead. It still amazed him how most of the ponies thought they didn't have to murder to win. He knew from experience that love friendship and love wouldn't always do it. If it did then.......no. He would never remember what happened that day. His first failure. He felt a tear drip down his face before he could stop it.

Glancing over towards the beeping of his HUD he saw his clients walking towards him accompanied by Princess Cadence and captain Shining Armor. He wasn't insulting to their ranks. He had only ever spoke the truth. No matter how blunt it was. He sighed within his helmet. It was time for another contract......a long one to be exact.

Chapter Eleven

Boba waited for a long time. It had been an hour since he arrived at the train station. He could easy go to Ponyville without the ponies he needed to guard though he was hesitant to do so. Celestia did say go to Ponyville which Boba could easily exploit to have a few days of peace as he traveled back to Ponyville by himself. The other reason he didn't want to was the fact that the changelings probably wanted his head. He could easily take a lot of them though a thousand was really pushing it. The last reason was his equipment. The ponies could have easily messed it up when they went tinkering inside of it. Boba was going to have to check it when he arrived at Ponyville.

'You said to protect the ponies Celestia......you didn't specify to protect them anywhere else Princess. So better hope they don't go outside the town.' He thought.

Another thing was that Celestia said she wouldn't say he failed his contracts. Granted he was betrayed in one by the queen might have a way to make his life horrible considering she and her changelings could become anyone they want. The other thing was he did technically accept a contract so he if he refused to do it after giving his word that it might as well be a failed contract.......what about the other ponies? What was going to stop them?

Did Celestia make them promise not to?

Or was his career going to go down the drain?

Damn ponies.

He heard his HUD beeping. Glancing over, he saw his clients walking towards him along with the captain and his wife. Just in time to as Boba heard the train pulling up. Guess the two came to see them off. Boba didn't pay attention to them and their goodbyes but simply waited for them to be done. It probably took less than a minute, but it seemed like the longest minute ever. He walked and stood by the train doors. The ponies began to board it. Though Applejack, Rainbow, Rarity and Twilight all glared at him while Pinkie and Fluttershy just boarded it with Fluttershy giving him a spare glance before walking inside. Satisfied they were on, he began to get on himself only to feel a hand grab his shoulder while squeezing it. Turning around, he saw Shining Armor glaring at him.

People had always said that when you threaten someone you needed to show that you meant it. An easy way to do this was to have a look of rage on your face or either an emotionless expression with nothing that showed you were lying. The true way to threaten someone was when you able to threaten someone with no words but a silent stare. Boba had to admit that Shining Armor was doing it well though Boba was not in the bit intimidated. Impressed.....but not intimidated. Boba knew what the words that were being said in the captain eyes. 'You harm them and I will hurt you.' Even mad these ponies couldn't threaten to kill someone. How pathetic.

Boba grabbed Shining hand with his own and began to squeeze causing bones to pop but not break. Shining showed no expression of pain. The two stared at one and another when the two finally back down as Shining removed his hand when Boba released it. Shining gave one more stare before turning around and walking off. Boba stared at him then noticed another pony hadn't left yet. Glancing over, he saw the princess of love giving him......a neutral face expression. She eventually turned and walked off as well.

'What was that?'

"ALL ABOARD!" The train conductor shouted causing Boba to break from his thoughts. Shrugging it off he walked inside the train.

The first thing he saw was the room where they were supposedly staying in. It was nice enough. Glancing over he could already see his clients sitting down. Scoffing he walked towards the door at the end of the room that led into another room one that was hopefully empty. He ignored the glares that were sent his way. Before he could halfway he was  blocked off by Dash who stood in front of him glaring at him.

"Where do you think you going?"

Really?

"To the next room."

"What are you planning?"

"Excuse me?" Boba asked with his eyes narrowed.

"I wonder that as well." Applejack speaking from his side.

"If you must know AJ...."

"Only my friends can call me that and you ain't no friend."

"Thanks for pointing that out." Boba spoke sarcastically. "For your information, I will call you whatever I like......AJ" Boba smirked underneath his helmet when the said mare sent him a death glare.

"Listen here you bastard!" Rainbow poked his armored chest. "I don't care who you are! I don't trust or like you! I also know you up to something!"

"Feeling mutual. I'm not also not up to anything. If I wanted your dead......then you would be."

"Is that a threat?!"

"Like I said before......I don't make threats......I make promises. Now move. I have to protect you all in Ponyville so I rather not have to spend time with you all."

What she did next caused Boba temper to rise. Rainbow pressed her face up against his helmet while smirking. "You technically work for us. So we could have you take you gear off."

"I don't take orders from either of you. I am merely told to protect you......though that doesn't mean you won't get hrt first while I save you."

"WHAT!?"

"You heard me. I was told to protect you. That doesn't mean I can stop all injuries, however."

The ponies were silent as they stared at him with narrowed eyes.

"Make no mistake. I am not here to make friends. The only friends I need are bits. You should have told your princess to be more thorough with her assignment. She said to protect you all in Ponyville not nowhere else. So if we came under attack right now, I don't have to defend you."

"Why you no darn..." Applejack stopped her speech when Twilight held up her hand stopping her.

"You really are a despicable pony."

'Pony? They still don't know I am not a pony?'

"The world is a cruel place. Now if you don't mind I want to get shut eye in silence before I am spending my time with you all."

Boba walked past the ponies and as he neared the door he raised his hand opening it. "Would you kill children for bits!?"

Boba stopped at the question being asked. He stood there in the doorway frozen. Not bothering to answer he closed the door behind himself. Glancing around, he saw the room was empty save for a few beds. Sighing he sat down on one deep in thought.

Would you kill children for bits!?

The question kept repeating in his head.

Would you kill children for bits!?

He knew the answer to the question though he wouldn't answer the ponies out loud.

Would you kill children for bits!?

He closed his eyes as he answered inside his mind.

No.