I winced when the mare who was no younger than me, dabbed a cotton swab on my injury on my hind leg. I was battered and bloodied. A few hairs on my hide and legs were singed too. My barding was torn and ripped, revealing my stable barding beneath it. The fact that I was a stable pony was the only reason these other ponies hadn’t shot me again. I had told them what had happened to the Fiends that took over. Most of them couldn’t believe that a lone stable pony took out an entire territory that belonged to savages. I sighed.

“Well, I don’t really expect you to believe me anyway. But I need to at least have you hear it.” I slid off of the medical bed and winced. The medical mare frowned.

“Why do you insist on moving so much?” she asked. I smiled.

“I hate not moving around. Don’t worry though, this is really nothing compared to the other times I’ve been through.” I said. The Overmare arched a brow.

“Other times?” she asked. I nodded.

“My stable opened sixty something odd years ago. We were greeted by the RCE, a group of ponies that devote their caps into drinks and whatnot and mix it in with saving ponies. They have at least ten stations out in the Wasteland and run a border to The Empire.” I looked at her. “So, I’m curious. What did your stable have that mine didn’t?” The Overmare looked me over before speaking.

“Did your stable have an orchard?” she asked. I rubbed my chin.

“I think so. Not as big as yours though. Stable 50 is still a habitable stable. We use it mainly for courier lessons.” I said. The mare who was tending to my wounds gasped.

“Are you saying that your entire stable was a delivery service?” she asked. I shook my head.

“I don’t really know. By the time I was born, the stable and the town that was built over it was already a hub to couriers that either needed a rest before continuing or turning in payment for deliveries.” I smiled. “My entire family has been in the courier business for centuries.” Some of the ponies murmured amongst themselves. I limped over to the door. “Well? What did your stable do?” The Overmare cleared her throat.

“We assigned jobs when ponies come of age. When they turn sixteen, they are given a test that will decide their position.” She sighed. “Other than that, it was a maintained stable. Or… was.” She frowned. “In my own foolishness, I let those savages in because I thought we were ready to see the world.” I bowed my head.

“Sorry if it wasn’t what you expected. Equestria still suffered from the war. But it’s not all that bad.” I smiled. “Me and some other ponies have either intentionally or unintentionally been cleaning up the roads. Trade routes are raider and now Fiend free.” I bowed my head and sighed. “I’m also really glad I managed to get to you all in time. Motor Head said he had slaughtered everyone here.”

“Oh, he would have.” A young colt said. “But thanks to the Overmare, we took refuge in the orchard for weeks! Had plenty of food and we were able to keep them out.” The Overmare nodded with a proud smile. The mare who had tended to my wounds snorted with a frown. Maybe the system wasn’t so perfect. Either way, I felt happy. I got to meet other stable ponies! Now, to get them back to Las Pegasus safely.

“Why don’t you all come back to Las Pegasus with me? It’s safer there than out here.” I said. The stable dwellers gave me grim looks. “What?”

“We aren’t going to that horrible place. Too many of our own have snuck out. We even had a Securitron come and try to talk us out of here.” The Overmare snorted. “We weren’t ready to go out yet.” I frowned.

“Yet, you had no qualms in being tricked by Fiends.” I said. That made the Overmare look startled.

“W-what are you trying to say? That I would let savages in?” she exclaimed. I sighed. Oh boy, I wasn’t going to like this.

“But I thought you sent out a message to the entire stable claiming to welcome them in.” I said. The Overmare was suddenly given dirty looks from the dwellers. Oh goddesses. It was Pleasant Town’s mayor all over again. “Please, tell me you sent it out?” The Overmare opened her mouth to speak, only to be interrupted by one of the dwellers.

“So, big shot Overmare? When were you going to tell us we were ready to go outside?” a stallion asked with a cold look. Guess she didn’t.

“I was going too!” she retorted. “I mean, I did! I did send it out. Did none of you get it?” she asked.

“Guess we were too busy trying to defend ourselves.” Another said. I stomped my hoof, getting their attention.

“Alright, alright. I don’t want anypony at each other’s throats now. Let’s first get you all out of here and to safety.” I sighed. “Then, you all can decide what to do from there.” I quietly groaned to myself. My first thoughts to meeting other stable ponies was one where we all would be civil. Guess I was wrong completely. Another corrupted official at it again. Overzealous Overmare and ponies with attitude problems. The system was fine. Something you would expect out of a normal stable. Ours may have been exactly like that before opening sixty three years ago before turning it into a courier hub for resident couriers to train in.

The stable ponies chatted amongst themselves, some were making it clear about the Overmare’s faults and others just harassing each other with insults. I limped to the entrance and found to my surprise the blue mare laying on the ground unconscious. I rushed over to her and shook her.

She’s still breathing. I shook her again and she stirred.

“What happened?” I asked. The mare shook her head groggily before speaking.

“I’m… not sure. I was just making my way out when I was suddenly stopped by this strange looking stallion.” She said. Strange looking stallion? “He had an overcoat… I think. And he was also wearing a straw hat.” I stiffened, feeling my eyes widened. Oh no… Lyon.

“Did he… do something to you?” I asked. The mare rubbed her head.

“Err… I remember him putting his horn to my head and after that I woke up to see you.” She said. I bit my lip. A maiden. This mare is a maiden. Lyon was just here. Or… he could still be here. She arched a brow at me. “Are you okay?” I sat down on my rump, dumbfounded. I couldn’t believe it. Three vessels, including me making four. Sanity being the vessel to Gaia, Viper Strike to Acerbus, Me to Din. So… what’s her maiden? Okay, relax. Before things get hairy, gather info first.

“Err… what’s your name?” I asked.

“Sapphire Fire.” She said. I blinked. Strange name. But still… Lyon had awoken her maiden. I need to find out who she is. But how? All the times I’ve met maidens and I’ve only unintentionally met them. Gaia being the first to force contact. I ruffled my mane in frustration. Sapphire arched a brow and looked to the stable ponies. “Err… Is she okay?” One mare spoke for them.

“We just met her. Said she killed an entire group of savages.” She said. Sapphire nodded.

“Oh yeah. She did do that.” She said. The Overmare blinked.

“Wait… you saw her take out the savages?” she asked. Sapphire nodded.

“I was caged in with a few others when all of sudden this suicidal mare came in with a chainsaw and slaughtered them. Then, we went outside and saw her set one of the leaders on fire.” She said. I winced. They saw that? Damn… if I hadn’t reacted, they would have witnessed rape. But I wouldn’t let anypony do that to me ever. I had it happen to me once, I won’t let it happen again. One of the reasons I went on a Fiend massacre. I sighed and nodded.

“Err… listen. I know I just saved you all, but do you think you can wait here a bit? I have to go check to see if… you know… more of them are around.” It wasn’t going to rule it out that I might not have killed all of them. But it was also an excuse. I needed to see if there were signs of Lyon actually being here. I stood up and limped out of the stable. I blinked, seeing faded runes on the ground. He was definitely here. Then, I noticed the runes trailing off around a corner of a building. Was Lyon trying to show me something?

I followed the runes, I turned the corner and found that the runes led to an open area. I looked around. Nothing. Just open desert. I bowed my head in disappointment, then cocked my head when my gaze fell onto a sapphire colored box. I gasped. It looked just like the one I had. It was a key. I slumped. Lyon knew I was going to doubt it. So to give me proof, he handed me one of the keys. But where did he get it? I thought these keys were still out there in the Wasteland, lost for nineteen years. I took it in my magic, expecting it to open. When it didn’t, I remembered what the cloaked figure had said.

Each one was colored for their intended maiden. I stuffed it in my bag and made my way back to the stable. I stiffened, seeing that the ponies weren’t there anymore. No sign of struggle. No sign of anything. And the stable door was closed too. I squinted, seeing a note taped to the front. Getting a closer look, it was a letter.

Hey kid. Don’t worry about the folks you rescued, I’ll make sure they get back unharmed. – NP

NP? NP…

“New Pegas?” I suddenly said to myself. New Pegas was here? I was only gone ten minutes. New Pegas was here? And when he said rescued, did he see me take on the Fiends? I quickly flipped over to the radio. Only upbeat jazz music played. Why was New Pegas here? And how had he convinced all the ponies to go with him? Well, at least they are probably already on their way to Las Pegasus. I sighed, wincing as the pain in my sides and legs still coursed through me.

Returning to the gate of Las Pegasus, I was stopped by the RCE ranger again. He blinked at the sight of me.

“Damn, Gone for a few hours and come back looking like you just fell into a pack of hellhounds.” He said. I snorted.

“More like Fiends.” I said. He smiled.

“So I’ve heard. New Pegas was leading a big group of ponies that he said you risked your life for. Wish we had troops as determined as you.” I said nothing. I was sore and exhausted. The Fiends definitely gave me a beating. Even if their weapons were in poor condition. The RCE ranger nodded and waved behind him and the gate opened. Before I entered, I turned to the ranger.

“You didn’t happen to see anypony come out?” I asked. He rubbed his chin.

“Just one caravan.” He said. “Why?”

“Did that caravan had a timberwolf pulling it?” the ranger shook his head to my relief. So my friends weren’t looking for me out there. That’s good. I limped into the busy street and made my way back to the Roulette hotel. Reaching the steps of the hotel, I noticed Bucky trotting out with his boys. He smiled to me.

“Hey kid. See you’ve been busy.” He snickered. I bowed my head, wincing.

“Yeah… hurt like hell though.” I groaned. He tipped his hat.

“Hey, sorry about earlier. I was rather stressed with the preparations and had to discuss what was necessary with Al.” he said. He still looked pale and tired. But I nodded. “You’re friends are out and about if you go askin’, ya’ dig?” again, I nodded before he tipped his hat and gave me that charming smile of his before trotting past me with his boys in tow. I swear, everytime I see them, they are either leaving or entering a hotel. I wouldn’t blame him though. They were gangers. Even gangers have busy lives. But Bucky and Al Capony must be busier with the wedding coming up. I continued my way into our suite.

Entering the familiar hotel room, I plopped myself on the sofa. I closed my eyes and just rested there, feeling my sore muscles pound. I wanted to take a shower. But… maybe I’ll… do that… some other… time….

I panicked. What the hell was going on? I felt myself falling. As I did, I noticed bubbles trailing behind me. It didn’t take long for me to figure out I was underwater. I held my breath as I stopped. I struggled to hold it in and flailed my hooves to swim upwards. I couldn’t hold it anymore. I let out a breath of air and blinked. I was… breathing? I looked around. The blue scenery was big… and scary. I felt vertigo when I imagined this as a watery abyss. I swam a little forward and stopped when I saw something ripple into view.

I was suddenly surrounded by a current of bubbles. I flailed again as my body flipped multiple times. I was helpless to stop it. I swam against the current, but I just couldn’t muster the strength to continue. I flailed helplessly as I was dragged along with the current. When I broke out of the current, I was falling again into the watery abyss. I was soon suspended on the edge of the black abyss below me and the blue abyss above me. I watched the current suddenly form into a body and an alicorn’s face appeared. I furrowed my brows.

Figures this is another unintentional encounter with a Star Maiden. Blue… water… sapphire…

“Aquaria.” I said bluntly. The alicorn blinked in recognition. “Great. Just need to find myself face to face with Lux and Acerbus and I’m good to go.”

You seem upset. Is something troubling you?

I nodded.

“My brother has been going around waking you all up. I have Din inside me, I’ve met Shiva, I was forced into contact with Gaia, I saw my brother claiming one of my enemies to be a vessel to Acerbus and now I think I found you and your vessel too, but didn’t get a chance to explain.”

So, that is why you are not frightened by my appearance. Nor do you fear the water. You are indeed a Keeper.

“Well it’s starting to get annoying. Let me guess. I stumbled into your domain by accident?” To my surprise, Aquaria shook her colossal head.

I was told to meet you when I get the chance. Lyon can be pretty convincing.

I sighed.

“Well… okay. Wasn’t expecting an actual normal contact… I think?” I rubbed the back of my head. This is just weird. I was forced to deal with one spirit inside me. I unintentionally met Shiva. I was forced into contact by Gaia. Now I’m having a “normal” contact with Aquaria. I narrowed my eyes at the watery alicorn. “You seem to act differently than your sisters.” Aquaria smiled.

I’m Aquaria. The sooth one. My voice is neither projected nor whispered. In fact, I am communicating with you through the vibrations of the water around you.

Interesting. I couldn’t help but smile at the thought. I then remembered Shiva claiming all Maidens to be evil. Aquaria didn’t act evil. Or… any evil for that matter. Time to poke at a primordial brain.

“So… what makes you evil?” I asked. Aquaria chuckled, her head bobbing.

To fill the land with nothing but water. The beautiful ocean blue. That is my ideal. I’ll create a utopia with the fragments this land leaves behind.

“A flooded Equestria? How can you create a utopia like that?” I asked.

Atlantis.

Great, if Aquaria was running the show, we would all be mer-ponies. I couldn’t imagine myself with gills.

“So, if you were told to meet me, then what is it you are hoping to find?” I asked. Aquaria flapped her current colossal wings before speaking.

The child says that I am to trust you as a Keeper. You are tasked with bringing my sisters and their vessels to the place where it all began. And now I must ask. Why a mere youngling like you?

I rubbed the back of my head.

“I didn’t ask for this. Nor did I want to be a part of it either.” I snorted. “But I wasn’t even given a choice at birth either.” Aquaria nodded.

Yes. My vessel is very… interesting to say the least. I cocked my head.

“Sapphire Fire?” I asked. Aquaria nodded again.

She fears my domain. The glorious blue land that is empty. But you. You do not fear my domain. You in fact seem rather annoyed.

I chuckled.

“Well, you know why now. I’ve met four of you and the fifth one is being held inside a pony I hate with all my existence.” I said. Aquaria shifted slightly before speaking.

I see. That is why I’m sensing my sisters. Yet, I do not sense Lux. I pray they haven’t already started without me.

I arched a brow. Out of all these Maidens, I was surprised to find that the water spirit was more reasonable than the others. I smirked.

“Don’t worry. Din is safely locked up inside me. As for the others. They just recently woke up. By chance, I believe Lyon is looking for Lux. With any luck and much to my chagrin, he may have already found Lux and is now waking her up.” I said. Aquaria blinked.

Is that why you seemed annoyed? You don’t at all seem startled by my domain? She smiled. Oh, I wish I could have called dibs on you. But Din did her best to push me away. I arched a questioning brow.

“What are you talking about?” I asked.

I cannot speak to you about that. I have already said enough. She flapped her colossal wings. I did as I was told. I do hope you are keeping Din from ruining my beautiful land. If she does I may have to… take extreme measures.

Extreme measures? What is she- WHOA! Aquaria flapped her wings and I felt myself being dragged along by the current she had created. Again, I helplessly flailed and flipped, closing my eyes as I did.

I jolted up and once again, smacked my horn into Iris’s chin. This time, she stumbled over the table and crashed into the small shelf where the radio lay. She frowned and I gave her a sheepish smile.

“I honestly need a chin guard or something.” She said before a book fell from the shelf and plopped open onto her face. I looked over to see a surgical tray and stiffened. Goldenlee smiled as she wiped her hooves with a handkerchief.

“You must have been dead tired. I was able to get all of the bullets out from your body.” Then, she looked sternly at me before giving me a bop on the head. I rubbed my poor aching head as she spoke. “And you once again throw yourself into unnecessary danger! Honestly, what would have happened if you didn’t come back at all?” I bowed my head. Near rape status. But I made sure to geld the bastard. I didn’t say what came to my mind before speaking.

“Look, as worried as you all are, I did it for a reason.” I frowned. “And I’m going to see if my theory worked too.” I tried moving, but found myself unable to do so when the pain shot through me.

“Thirty two stitches, dear.” Goldenlee said. “I hope your theory was worth that much.”

“Knowing her, it might have been on the charts.” Shining Star said as he narrowed his eyes at me. “And what’s more, you suffered first degree burns. It’s best if you don’t take the ice packs that are strapped to you off. Their magic is trying to prevent permanent damage.” I bit my lip.

“Am I really that beaten?” I asked. Goldenlee frowned.

“Gave us all heart attacks if that is what you mean. Why didn’t you tell us you were back? We were ready to go look for you when we suddenly find you sleeping on the sofa looking like you’ve been through hell and back.” She said. I bowed my head. Not the welcome back I was expecting. I bowed my head, sighing.

“Sorry…” Goldenlee frowned more.

“Don’t apologize to me.” She said. She looked at Iris. I looked at her and she sighed.

“Listen, I’m just going to go for a quick little trip into Las Pegasus. Nothing else.” She said. I bit my lip.

“I-Iris?” she looked at me. “Y-you aren’t… mad?” she shrugged.

“I don’t know what to feel right now.” She sighed and opened the door. “I’ll be back soon.” When she closed the door, I felt my heart beat in panic. Oh goddesses… what did I do wrong? Iris is mad at me. Was it because I told her not to come with me? I laid back down, feeling ashamed. Goldenlee levitated her surgical tray and left me to stare at the ceiling. I ignored the banter from my friends when Sanity suddenly came up to my side.

“Are you couriers always so stupid?” she asked. I blinked tiredly at her.

“What do you mean?” I asked. She sighed.

“Don’t you trust your friends?” I looked at her, seeing her disappointed look. I looked back at the ceiling, covering my eyes with my PipBuck leg.

“I do. I just…” I sighed. “Something just feels… off.” I peeked out to look at the grey mare. “I also discovered another vessel while I was… you know…” Sanity furrowed her brows. “She told me her name is Sapphire Fire. And I am one hundred percent positive that she bears Aquaria.” I looked over to see my tattered saddle bags in the corner. “Look in my bags. Pull out mine and the other one.” Sanity gave me one last look before doing so. She gasped when she pulled out the sapphire colored box along with my amber box.

“Where did you…” she asked.

“I think Lyon left it for me. I was about to go back to her when I found a letter from New Pegas saying that he is taking them over to Las Pegasus himself.” I said.

“So we heard.” Comp’s voice said. “Taking out an entire territory of Fiends with nothing but a chainsaw and two grenades? Disguising yourself as one of them and killing the leader? Freed abused ponies and the stable’s residents? Geld one of them in defense for near rape before setting him on fire?” I heard a snort. “Yeah, you certainly left an impression. Enough that the whole city is talking about it.” He didn’t sound all that happy. What was wrong with them? All I was doing was testing a theory while getting a dress back and finding out what they are capable of. Two little ponies racked my brain hard.

I groaned. So that’s why. I felt even more awful. I looked to see Sanity looking between the two keys. She was clearly thinking of something. I couldn’t remember much after that. I must have fallen asleep.

I awoke to find myself in darkness. Checking the time, I found it to be three in the morning. I quietly sat up, hearing the snore of Brick. I squinted my eyes, seeing that each of my companions were sleeping. All except for one. Iris wasn’t back yet. I felt my heart skip a beat. Three in the morning? Not back yet? I bit my lip. Was she that mad at me? I winced, feeling a small pain in my legs as I quietly slid out of the sofa.

I quietly crept towards my saddle bags and frowned. My barding and gear were gone. My friends must have taken them to get repaired. They couldn’t have at least left the sword? I shook my head, feeling the dread come back. I had hurt Iris. And she was mad at me. I felt tears fall from my cheeks. My promise to never hurt her when we started our relationship came back. I had broken the promise. I slumped, feeling depressed now. Dammit, karma you are such a bitch to me. I looked back to my sleeping companions before quietly opening the door and stepping out.

I needed to get some fresh air. I was also worried that Iris may have gotten into some sort of trouble and I was to blame for her misfortune.

“Going somewhere?” a voice said. I stiffened and looked to see Sanity studying the boxes in front of her. What was she doing out in the hall?

“Err… just… out?” I said giving her my best smile. She gave me a I’m-not-stupid look and I sighed in defeat. “Iris didn’t come back last night.” I finally said.

“And you think you are in a condition to go out and find her?” she shook her head. “I’ve heard from the others about you. You lived a pretty rough life before meeting them.” I stiffened. Did my friends tell Sanity everything about me? I bit my lip. She arched a brow before her eyes widened. “Well… it seems you are.” I blinked and looked down at myself.

My hide was still somewhat tufted up, but I was no longer bleeding and hardly any sign of burns remained. I gave a small smile.

“The power of a maiden I guess. Quick healing in a sense.” I said. “Though it’s not something you should really rely on. Slow as hell.” I still felt sore either way. My cuts may be healed, but the stitches were there to keep me from falling apart due to the slow healing. Still, Sanity frowned.

“Do you know why everyone was upset?” she asked. I gave small nod.

“Yes…” Sanity nodded.

“Then I need to say nothing more. If you understand, then go talk to her.” She sighed. “I noticed Iris hasn’t come back yet either and so I waited out here for her.” I blinked.

“You stayed up all night waiting for her to come back?” I said. She shook her head.

“Not all night. Just half way through.” She said. She then scooped up the amber box and tossed it to me. I caught it in my magic and looked at it. “You say that you saw the vessel of Aquaria? What did she look like?” I rubbed my chin, recalling the mare.

“Sapphire Fire is her name. A blue mare with a sapphire and teal striped mane and tail. Apparently is afraid of big amounts of water.” I said. Sanity gave a weak chuckle.

“The vessel for a maiden of the water is afraid of water itself?” she said with a small smile. I arched a brow.

“Then what frightens you about Gaia?” I retorted. I didn’t really like her making fun of another pony like us because of something she’s afraid of. Sanity bowed her head, realizing what I was trying to tell her.

“Heights. I’m afraid of heights.” She shuddered before hugging herself. “Ever since I was a filly and had dreams of her, she always picked me up off of the ground and when she was done goading me into freeing her, she would just drop me until I hit the ground and wake up, feeling scared.” I nodded.

“Then the same thing has happened to Sapphire. I’ve already been to see Aquaria herself and let me tell you, there is nothing but a blue watery abyss followed by a dark abyss of nothingness. See what I mean?” Sanity said nothing but nodded. Then, she looked at me.

“So… what frightens you about Din?” she asked. I didn’t even skip a beat when I spoke.

“Easy. She brings destruction on everything and everyone she touches.” I said bluntly. Sanity seemed baffled at my blunt response.

“You… don’t sound that afraid.” I shook my head.

“I am afraid. But I know I can do better because I have friends that back me up.” I looked at her sadly. “And I have a special one that I have to apologize to.” Sanity seemed to ponder this. Then, she finally nodded.

“Well, don’t be out too long. I’m not sure if I can stall your friends.” She said. I smiled.

“You don’t need to. Just let them do their thing.” I said before trotting down the hall. I stayed quiet as I entered the lobby of the casino. It was only slightly busy. A few ponies quietly played roulette and poker on the tables. I trotted past them and bumped into Bucky. He smiled at me and tipped his hat.

“Morning, doll.” He arched a brow. “Geez, talk about your quick recovery. So where are you heading off too?” I sighed.

“Iris didn’t come back last night. So I’m going to go see if I can find her.” I said. Bucky rubbed his chin.

“Iris… Iris… I believe I saw her over at Sunny Springs.” He said. Sunny Springs? I thought back to my gear that was missing. Did Iris take my gear to get them replaced? I felt my hopes rise when I looked at him with a smile.

“Thanks.” I trotted past him and he stopped me with a hoof on my shoulder.

“Easy now. While you are out there, do you think you can maybe help a pony out?” he smiled. “It’s for the wedding, ya’ dig?” I smiled.

“Sure.” I said. I might be able to catch Iris and think of a good way to apologize to her.

“Good. There’s a certain package that I had ordered and it hasn’t come in yet. I heard that the courier who I believe was on her way to deliver it was attacked and it was taken from her. Do you think maybe you can keep an eye out for a peculiar package?” I beat my chest with a smirk.

“I’m a courier. Of course I can. Do you know where I can find the courier?” I asked. Bucky rubbed his chin.

“Can’t say for sure. Probably check the Nurse Redheart Clinic down the street. Heard the kid was beaten up badly too.” He said. I gave him a worried look. It must have been an important package if the courier was beaten to a pulp. But first, I have to get my gear. I trotted out of the hotel and made my way down the street to the Cathedral ruins. Turning the corner, I stopped and noticed a small crowd had gathered in a circle. In the middle, I saw Sunny Springs looking beaten. She glared at a cloak figure that I’ve seen at the Marigolds. It seems like he was also beaten up too. Sunny Spring was about to move when the cloaked pony shifted. I gapped when I saw Pride members burst from the crowd with sub-machine guns drawn.

“Lousy no good thief.” Sunny Springs spat. The cloaked figure said nothing. Then, he spotted me. I glared at him before moving through the crowd. When I broke through, I had five copies follow suite. I rushed one of the Pride members and planted a good hoof to his face, taking his gun in the process. I aimed up and fired to get the attention of the others. It worked. My copies managed to take them out and take their guns in the process. “Well, you got good timing kid.” Sunny said.

“What’s going on?” I asked, not taking my eyes off of the cloaked pony. Sunny Springs snorted.

“That thief stole from me. And I want back what he took.” She said. I narrowed my eyes.

“What did he take?” I asked. Sunny was about to say when the cloaked pony suddenly bolted through the crowd, knocking down ponies in the process.

“Hey! Get back here!” Sunny shouted before taking off after him. My brain was again sending more alerts. Something was definitely not right. I galloped after them. I had to give the pony credit, he knew how to be nimble. I eventually caught up with Sunny Springs right on the tail of the figure. He suddenly bolted right into an ally. We made no time in following suite. He knocked over trash cans and levitated cardboard at us. I bat away a cardboard with my magic and hopped over a trash can when he turned down another ally. He didn’t get far. It was a dead end. His covered head looked left and right before he turned to look at us.

Sunny Springs grinned.

“Nowhere to run, kid. Give it back.” She said. The figure stepped back once, saying nothing. I stepped forward.

“Just who are you?” I asked. The pony stood calmly now.

“Maiden. This is a dire time. You must make haste. Or the entire city is in trouble.” He said. I arched a brow. I know I heard that voice before.

“What are you talking about?” I asked.

“Oh, quit yapping!” Sunny Springs spat. “Cough it up and you won’t get hurt.” The cloaked pony shifted slightly before he suddenly lashed out a hoof and a metallic clang sounded. A loud pop and I was suddenly seeing stars. I stumbled and blinked. A flashbang. I blinked away the stars and when my vision came back, the cloaked figure was gone. I quickly looked behind us. Nothing. Sunny Springs grumbled. “Dammit… Of all the times to get robbed.” I sighed as we made our way back out into the streets and back to the Cathedral.

“So… what did get robbed?” I asked. Sunny frowned.

“It was a perfume bottle.” She said. I blinked. Per…fume?

“Err… is it really… something to be upset about?” I asked worriedly. Sunny arched a brow.

“He stole from me.” She said. I rubbed the back of my head.

“So… not something…?” I said lamely. She gave me a glare. “Hey, I don’t know what so great about perfumes or dresses! Don’t blame me for thinking they aren’t important at all.” What do mares see in all that frilly stuff? Honestly, it’s like you even touch a piece of cloth and they suddenly see you as the devil. And perfume? I gag everytime I smell it. I could taste it in my throat too. Sunny Spring seemed baffled.

“Well, it’s not just any perfume. It’s a specialty that was supposed to be sent to Al Capony by hoof. I was about to do just that when I turned back around and saw the fool swipe it. I caught him when a crowd blocked his path.” She spat. “Fucker knows how to hit though.” I stopped and looked at her with surprise. First a package that was supposed to be for Bucky. And now a perfume bottle? That pony is probably the culprit too that took the package. Then, I remembered. I haven’t really gone to check on the courier. “Something wrong?” I just looked at her before speaking.

“Err… it’s nothing really. Say, did Iris happen to give you my barding and gear?” I asked. Sunny Spring rubbed her chin.

“Erm… I believe it was that pretty mare friend of yours. Goldenlee, I think?” she said. I blinked. Wait, Goldenlee took my gear and gave it to her? Then… why did Bucky say… I shook my head. I’m so confused. “Are you alright, kid?”

“I just… I don’t…” I groaned. “I’m so confused!” I began pacing. “First, Iris is mad at me. Then, she doesn’t come back at all for an entire night. Then, Bucky tells me that a courier that was supposed to give him a package got beaten up and stolen. Now, you get robbed by a cloaked pony for a perfume bottle. Something is not adding up.” I stopped and blinked. “I mean the whole ordeal about stuff being stolen. Not the Iris is mad at me one…” I bowed my head. Sunny Spring pat my shoulder.

“So, your mare-friend didn’t come back at all last night?” she asked. I nodded, feeling my heart ache. “Then, she may either be drunk in a bar or possibly just getting some air. Or… you know, found another mare.” I looked at her with shock and panic. Oh goddesses, if that was the case then I seriously fucked up. Sunny Spring balked at my expression and quickly spoke. “N-not that she would anyway. You two seem to hit it off pretty good.” It was too late. I was dreading the fact that she may have found another mare because I did something I shouldn’t have.

And yet… I wouldn’t blame her either. If it was the punishment she found suitable for me, then I won’t begrudge it. I deserved every heart ache from her because I broke my promise never to hurt her. I felt tears well up, but I quickly bowed my head, my bangs covering my face before I wiped my eyes.

“No… you might be right… I deserve it anyway…” Sunny Springs suddenly knocked on my head. Even if I did have star metal bones, it still stung. I rubbed my head and looked at her stern expression.

“Don’t go getting depressed. Honestly, kid, you are taking it way too seriously. It might not even be as bad as you think. She’s possibly trying to figure out how she can express herself to you for what you have done to hurt her.” I was about to speak when she held up a hoof. “And don’t even say that going out with another mare was it. I can guarantee you she’s not the type of mare to do that.” I blinked.

“Err… well… I don’t know…” I said. Cream and Bubble Pop popped into my head along with Iris saying that she didn’t really care and gave them a chance. I felt even more conflicted when she thought it would be a good idea to have a kink with all of them. I flushed slightly, but ruffled my mane in frustration. Sunny Springs sighed.

“Listen, don’t go coming to conclusions already. Think about the moments you had together. Tell me she doesn’t love you after all that.” I said nothing as I did. Each and everyone. The moment I fell in love with her without realizing it and her falling in love with me because I was different and made her feel like she could be herself. Our moment in bed and the moment when she saved me from being kicked out of my own hometown. Saved me from destroying everyone on the carrier. Saved me from myself. I smiled. My pretty cool mare. Then, I felt guilty. I remember her saying she would come with me if I promised not to hurt her and that I would take her to see other places.

And yet, I told her not to come with me because I was stupid to not stick with my plan I had the first time. I rushed that problem head first without thinking. And I ended up being battered to the point of me looking like I was dead. I sighed.

“Do you… know where she is by chance?” I asked. Sunny Springs shook her head and I slumped.

“But look, just because she’s not with you, doesn’t mean she doesn’t care for you.” She said. I nodded. Once again, I was being selfish. I then took a deep breath and exhaled.

“You’re right. She can take care of herself. I’ll give her some space.” I said. Sunny Springs smiled now.

“Glad to hear it.” She motioned to the Cathedral. “Wanna see how your barding is fairing?” I nodded. We trotted over to her booth she set up. “I’m afraid that your barding is beyond the point of repair.” She reached under the counter and sprawled my torn and battered faded black duster with my scorched stable barding. I furrowed my brows. I guess I was that bad. I felt even guiltier now. I had worried my friends. Even though Goldenlee said not to, I was going to apologize to each of them. ‘Hey, listen, sorry about me being stupid and having you all worry about me. I was being selfish. Friends?’ I glared at the horned pony.

No, if it was going to be an apology, it’ll not be half assed.

“Thankfully, I managed to have the material needed to make you a new one. And I’ve managed to salvage off the special magnet that was attached to the back.” She motioned at a mannequin pony with a frame around it. “Still working on what would be good though. Are you a stealthy or guns blazing?” I bit my lip. I’ve been mostly stealth. But with the Fiends it was guns blazing.

“Err… how about strategic?” I said. Not sure how ponies would think of strategic. “And probably a bit of stealth and guns blazing too?” Sunny Springs arched a brow coolly at me.

“I see. Well, it’ll be a while before it’s done.” She frowned. “And I have to find another perfume.” She reached under the counter and placed a neatly folded grey hoody and a black vest. “In the meantime, since I know you hate being unarmed, some temporary clothing for you until your barding is ready.” I gave her a sheepish smile.

“Thanks, but… I don’t really have my caps on me. They are back at the hotel.” I said. Sunny Springs nodded.

“Well, then you better go get them.” She knocked on the counter. “A thousand for rental clothing and six thousand for the barding.” My jaw dropped. A little expensive don’t you think? I slumped and nodded, taking the rental clothing in my magic. Sunny Springs smiled. “Glad to be of service for my favorite customer.” Am I? If I was, then maybe you should have lowered the price a bit? Oh forget it. I turned and trotted my way back to the hotel.

I frowned and looked up. The Nurse Redheart Clinic towered at four stories with a neon sign of a red cross and a heart in the middle. I quickly threw on the rental clothing, adjusting the vest before entering. To my surprise, this placed looked cleaner than the other buildings I’ve seen.

“Welcome. Do you have anything needed to be… fixed?” a mare said flirtatiously. I arched a brow in confusion and looked at the pretty mare in the nurse outfit. Her pink mane covered one of her navy colored eyes. I flushed when she suddenly brushed a hoof under my chin.

“Err… fixed? Like… uh…” She shushed me and licked her lips. I gulped. What the hell is going on!? Then, I noticed something strange about the mare. “Are you… daydreaming?” Her pupils suddenly went normal and she blinked.

“I… wha?” she looked me over, a little disappointed before slumping back into her chair. She was flushing furiously. The ivory mare nurse rubbed her face. “I’m terribly sorry.” I rubbed the back of my head.

“Uh… no biggie.” I said. I had to take a moment to calm my excited heart. The mare still flushed, but maintained her composure as she spoke.

“How can I help you, ma’am?” she said. Her expression seemed that of disappointment and shame. I cleared my throat, finally calming myself.

“I heard that a courier was taken in.” I said. The ivory mare pulled out a ledger and flipped through it.

“Courier… courier… I don’t see a courier name.” she squinted her eyes. I looked at the ledger and arched a brow. My eyes fell to a name I instantly recognized. Courier Seven? I felt myself suddenly feeling annoyed. Why her!? I groaned, thinking back to when we had to do a report on our hobbies. That same courier spilt Luster Dust on herself and continued to rant on about fashion. I looked at the mare nurse and saw her still squinting her eyes.

“Um, that name.” I said, pointing to the scribbled name. “I know that courier.” The mare nurse smiled.

“Oh, you mean the sweet little thing that has a passion about fashion? Yes, are you a friend of hers?” she asked. I shook my head.

“I’m actually a courier like herself. Courier Sixteen of the Crystal Express.” I sighed. “Me and her had the same study class.” The mare blinked even more and squinted her eyes.

“You… are you saying that you are the Savior everypony is talking about?” she asked. I slumped.

“No, I said I’m a courier like her. We’ve both studied to be couriers.” I snorted. “She just has an annoying habit of always bringing up fashion.” The mare nurse arched a brow and pointed at her mane. I groaned. “Yes, I’m the Savior everypony is talking about.” She suddenly looked star struck. Oh boy, this was going to get awkward.

“S-Savior?” she stammered suddenly. She pushed the ledger towards me. “C-can I have your autograph?” I said nothing and scribbled my name down in an empty space, much to my chagrin. She squeed, spun in her chair and held the ledger to her chest. “Oh, you just made this day even better!” she smiled at me. I nodded.

“Great. Look, if you don’t mind, I’m in a bit of a hurry.” I said. The mare nurse stood up and flailed her hooves at me.

“Wait! I’ll take you to her!” she said. I gave her my best smile I could manage as she trotted out of the counter and past me, squealing to herself as I followed her. “By the way, my name is Nurse Valentine. Oh, I can’t believe this! I’m with the Savior!” she gave a little happy jump for joy as we continued up the stairs. She went from seductive mare one moment to a fangirl the next.

“So… where are your glasses?” I asked. I couldn’t help but point it out to the mare. She looked like she was struggling to read the names on the ledger. Nurse Valentine blinked.

“Glasses? I don’t wear glasses.” She said. She suddenly flushed. “Oh… you know? How did you know I’m dyslexic?” I smiled.

“I didn’t, but thanks for telling me though.” I said, making her flush even more. A pretty mare who can be a fan girl and is dyslexic? I probably would have fooled around with her if I wasn’t taken. Then, the thought of Iris suddenly saying she doesn’t mind having other mares for our fun time popped into my head and I flushed. Oh goddesses, why!? Why do you torment me, karma? We reached the third floor and she led me to the end of the hallway. She knocked on the door before opening it.

There, sitting on the medical bed was the mare I dread to ever meet again. The red curly mane and the vanilla colored mare looked at us. She suddenly stiffened when she saw me.

“Sixteen!? What are you doing here!?” she balked. I frowned.

“I’m on vacation.” I said coolly. She gave me a worried look. “Is something wrong?” I asked.

“W-well, I don’t want you to… you know… go all fiery and murderous.” She said. She winced when I gave her a look that told her not to bring it up. I sighed.

“Listen, for what it’s worth, that wasn’t me that time.” I said. Seven gave me a skeptical look. “But that’s not why I’m here to see you. I’ve been told by somepony that you had a package stolen from you?” Seven bowed her head and nodded.

“Yes… but I wasn’t doing anything wrong!” she said exasperated. “I wasn’t bothering no pony! Why did they have to beat me up like that?” I looked at her with my infamous blank stare that made her curl slightly.

“You’re a courier. We risk our lives to deliver packages to ponies. You shouldn’t be surprised when you reach the top twenty. You open yourself up to more shady characters then the typical residents and farmers.” I said. “And right now, The Omaretas are planning to have a wedding and that package you were delivering was supposed to go to the gang head Bucky.” Seven stiffened.

“A g-gang head? Omaretas? Gangs?” she shivered. “I… I didn’t know it was for a gang head.” I sighed and rubbed my face. If I was a lost cause for girls’ day out, then Seven is a lost cause for all of us couriers. But I digress.

“So, I need to know who attacked you and where did they attack you?” I said. She hesitated before speaking.

“Why do you want to know? Are you helping them?” she asked. My nod made her gape. “But, didn’t you always say that you never wanted to involve yourself with gangs?” I nodded again and tapped my PipBuck.

“Have you’ve been keeping up with the news lately?” I asked. Seven nodded slightly. “Then, you probably already know why. I did the Omaretas a favor and did a damn good job of it. Now they see me as one of their own. Need I say more?” Seven shook her head. “Good. Now tell me what happened.” Seven took a deep breath before speaking.

“I had just entered Las Pegasus. The package was with me in my bags. Then out of nowhere, a group of cloaked ponies came out of nowhere and mugged me.” She motioned to her scrapes and bruises. “They beat me to a pulp and took off with the package.”

“And it didn’t occur to you to go after them?” I asked. Seven looked baffled.

“Are you crazy!? I’m not going after a group of maniacal ponies bent on beating and stealing!” she said.

“But you are a courier. And it’s our job to make sure the package is delivered.” I said. Seven shook her head.

“My orders didn’t have any penalties on it.” I arched a brow.

“You sure about that? Remember, top twenty?” Seven bit her lip, trying to figure out how to counter me. She gave a sigh of defeat and tapped on her PipBuck before holding it up to me. I trotted over and read the order.

>Seven, you are to deliver this package to the Roulette Casino Hotel in Las Pegasus. Failure to do so will result in minor consequences i.e. half payment or no payment. This package must be kept with you AT ALL COSTS. – TableTop

I nodded.

“Did you even bother to read your orders?” I asked. Seven nodded her head. I arched a skeptical brow, making her bite her lip before speaking.

“No… I was told by TableTop herself.” She said. I nickered.

“There ya’ go. TableTop only told you. She’s too busy to even read out penalties. It’s your responsibility as a courier to read it over.” I frowned. “And unfortunately, you aren’t really doing your job.” Seven bowed her head. I turned and made my way to the door. “If you aren’t going to retrieve it, then I will. Think about it, Seven. A courier doesn’t lead a normal life when they reach the top twenties. It’s how we do things in Pleasant Town.” I grit my teeth in annoyance as I left Nurse Valentine and the baffled Seven. I was about to exit the door when Nurse Valentine stopped me.

“Err… Savior? Don’t you think that was a little… harsh?” she asked. I looked at the pretty mare before speaking.

“We are couriers, not caravaners. The business can be a brutal one. And if you aren’t willing to put your wits and survival skills just to deliver one small brown box with nothing but a pebble in it, then you aren’t fit to really handle yourself at all. I didn’t create the rules. The rules were there when a pony decided to create a courier business.” I kept my blank unamused stare as I continued. “Seven needs to get her act together or she’ll just end up being killed.” Nurse Valentine seemed star struck.

“So… cool. You even care about your fellow couriers!” she said with a giggle. I rubbed the back of my head, feeling a little awkward. I’ve never seen any pony fangasm over me. In truth, I was a little scared at the thought. The only other fan I know was an RCE ranger stationed at the border. Then, the Enclave convinced them to leave. I was also having mixed feelings too. This mare had unintentionally flirted with me and then all of sudden, she went from sexy nurse to nerdy cute nurse. I slumped. My brain must be frying in confusion.

“Oh, uh… Savior?” she asked.

“Call me Courier. That’s my name.” I said. She flushed.

“Oh, sorry. Courier?” she gave me a sheepish smile. “D-don’t tell anypony what had happened. I uh… tend to daydream a lot. But this was a first that I out right did it on anypony.” I winked at her.

“Like I said. No biggie.” I chuckled. “So, what were you hoping for anyway?” Nurse Valentine continued to flush as she sighed.

“Well… I was daydreaming about me… and the Savior.” I gave her a suggestive smile. She quickly spoke. “To be honest, I thought you were a stallion. I always imagined you as a stallion when I first heard about you. I wasn’t expecting a… mare.” I laughed now.

“I’m not offended. I’ve gotten over the fact that most ponies see me as a male when I do dress like one.” I frowned. “How is it that some ponies are oblivious to realize I’m a mare. I have the height of one. I know for sure I am one.” Nurse Valentine shrugged.

“Maybe your really cool mane?” she guessed. I smiled.

“Well, thanks for the help, Nurse Valentine.” I said. Nurse Valentine stammered in reply.

“D-don’t be a stranger.” I nodded and left the clinic.

My brain was hurting. So many things were going on. But I told myself I will tackle one thing at a time. Right now, I have to worry about getting a stolen package back. Seven said she was just entering the city when she was mugged. I trotted towards the main gate.

Footnote: Max Level!