“The fuck should I wear to this shindig? I just washed all my shit.” I think about what I should wear to the meeting with fat ass at the town hall in a few hours, “She does have a nice ass though.” I laugh staring at my pile of clothes in the dim yellow light of the cabin, “Very plump and squishy.”

Feeling a certain part of my body start to stir I roll my eyes, “Great now I’m gonna have ta rub one off.” I say adjusting my crotch as I look over a old red flannel shirt, some of the thick flannel material showing cuts and dark blood stains disrupting the pattern.

“Well it’s good enough, they won't notice it under the armor anyways.” Slipping the shirt on the gusseted armpits allow my arms a greater range of motion than other long sleeve shirts even though the shirt was a tad too short.

Looking at the limited choice in pants I run my hand across the three scars that formed from where the Shuck had scratched me at Zecora’s. The three lines very obviously bubbled up from the rest of the already criss crossed scars and permanent red discoloration that took up most of my left thigh and torso.

“No matter how much scar removal cream I use none of these are goin’ anywhere.” Temporarily sidetracked I lift up undershirt and flannel to look at the continuation of the shredded skin and pits half way up my torso. Putting my right hand under my shirt I feel up the scar until it lessened where my old plate carrier at the time was protecting my ribs and vitals from the shrapnel.

“That damned uncomfortable thing saved my life,” I laugh reminiscing about what happened running my fingers at the border of the smooth undamaged skin and the rough, uneven, scar tissue.

“but I couldn’t.” I tightly close my eyes as the cacophony of blood, shredded flesh, screams, and… gurgling fill my senses making my heart to start pounding in my chest. Hitting myself in the side of the head a few times I force my eyes open and feel a tinge of pain rush down my left side.

Trying my hardest to push the memories to the back of my mind I look back down to my bare legs and lightly laugh, “At least I have a nice ass.”

Shaking my head at my own comment I pick up a pair of my best blue jeans, the pair that I hated the most and borderline refused to wear. Holding up the womens pants I try to scrape off some of the whitish tint where the bedazzles used to be along the rear pockets before I picked them off with my knife.

“Fuckin’ yellow threading, shallow ass pockets, motherfuckin’.... Eugggg.” I grumble going to put the pants down before stopping as I look to the other specimens, numerous tears, blood, oil, and other mystery stains covering the surface of the fabric. Sighing I look back to the pair I was holding and hang my head. Begrudgingly I lower the pants and slip one leg through before the other. Pulling them up they slide up all the way up past my thighs and ass, sitting comfortably on my hips. Buttoning them and sliding the zipper up I look at myself and shake my head in defeat.

“They fit perfect, they were too large a few months ago but now… these fuckin’ women’s pants fit on my male body perfectly.”

Walking into the bathroom I stop so I could see myself from the knees up in the mirror above the sink and turn around looking at my rear and sides.

“Jesus…” I mumble, “Can’t even tell I’m a guy from the back.” Running my hands down my figure I grit my teeth as I try to make my hands go straight down, following a path to what a male’s figure should be as if I could just remove the bone, muscle, fat, and skin in the way, “Why me? What did I do to deserve this shit? IS IT TOO MUCH TO FUCKIN’ ASK!?” I yell, looking into my eyes in the mirror.

Looking at myself again I bring a hand to my face and rub the bridge of my nose, “Forget it.” I sigh walking back out of the bathroom and returning to gather my supplies.

Sliding the last shell into the tube of the Remington I set it down on the counter next to the 1911 and its two full mags. Turning my head and looking at my plate carrier I hold it by the left shoulder strap and spin it around inspecting it further, the year of use lending plenty of time for it to gather the numerous stains, cuts, and holes that scattered the front and back of the carrier.

“Guess I could wear the Interceptor set I got,” Milling the thought over as I stare blankly at the carrier in my grip I shake my head, “No, that thing is hot like an oven and I’m gonna be hiding in some cramped space most likely until the Marshmallow shows so no Interceptor, I’ll jus’ wear this old thing.”

Bouncing the carrier in my grip I grab it by both hands and slide it over my head like a stiff sweater and let it slide down my arms before finally resting on my shoulders. Tightened down I take a deep breath to make sure my breathing wasn’t hindered before hitting the front plate with the side of my fist a few times to make sure it was on correctly.

Exhaling I rotate both my shoulders and lazily pick up the chest holster and put my left arm through the two straps. My right arm clicking as I reach behind me I grab the loose strap before bringing it to the buckle and securing it.

Fitting tightly to the plate carrier I pick up my revolver and slide it into its place, a sense of calm forming in my chest at the presence of the weapon.

Patting the dark wood grip of the revolver I smile a little knowing I hand a piece of my grandpa with me wherever I went.

My smile falling I drop my hand from the revolver’s grip and look to my belt and suspenders.

“Can’t wear that, might make me too wide… wider than small spaces will allow and I know it’ll make noise.” Sighing I scratch the side of my head while walking to the gun closet, “Shit.”

“Still need more than seven shots in the shotgun and twenty in both pistols.” Opening the door to the closet I start digging through it looking for anything I could use to hold shells with, “Bandolier, belt, side saddle for a shotgun maybe.” I wishfully hope anyway, almost positive that I would have nothing of the sort in the closet.

“Come on. I had a whole gun in here I didn’t know about I have to somethin- ope wait…” Pushing aside a can of 9mm I pick up a black square pouch I must of gotten with the vest and forgot about, “Huh, neat.” Sliding the nylon strap under the molle webbing of the right side protector I snap the two snaps and try to pull it off to make sure it was secure.

“I guess I could of used the pouches off my belt, alice does work with molle a little but it’d look off and would bounce around.” Opening the little pouch I grab a handful of shells and start to slide them in one by one all facing brass up.

The short and fat pouch fitting eight more shells I snap it back closed and look back into the gun cabinet for anymore molle compatable do dads, “Really need to clean this thing out.”

Not finding anything else fitting for today I stand back up straight and close the wooden door before walking over to the table in front of the couch. The sword I picked up around a week ago still lying in its place I left it after cleaning it to a mirror finish I pick it up and place it back into the scabbard it came with. Pulling on the seemingly leather, but not, strap on the back of the scabbard I place the sword to my left leg and pull the strap to the buckle around my waist.

The material creaking as it stretches around me I barely bake the first hole tightly securing the strap as the sword hangs at my left side. Reaching across with my right I grab hold of the handle and pull the sword out in one clean and fast motion, “...Nice.”, sliding it back into its home with the satisfying sound of metal on metal singing in the air I pick up the 1911 and its full magazine looking for a place to put it. My plate carrier being less covered than ever I notice the pouch sewn into the front and slide the 1911 into it, the gun getting covered all except the back half of the grip.

“Yeah, I’d figure myself observant.” I laugh sliding the extra magazine into the pouch I just found out about after wearing the plate carrier for near a year, “Oh well better late than never I suppose.”

Always amazed at my own stupidity I knock myself up the head with my palm and sigh with a small smile on my face as I shake my head.

Snorting and shaking my head one last time I walk over to the fridge and take out two cucumbers before digging in so my stomach wouldn’t double me over in the next few hours. Placing my hands on my hips and leaning back after finishing my second cucumber I twist from side to side popping my back, “Oh yeahhhhhhhh….” I sigh standing back up straight and clapping my hands after the extremely pleasurable back pop.

Plucking the bounty note from where it was stuck into my cupboard with my buck knife I look it over and nod. Folding it up I slide it next to my 1911 before picking up my helmet and gazing at its scarred left side before placing it on my head with almost fluid movement that showed how many times I’d put it on.

Grabbing the shotgun in my right hand I check the time on my watch before turning off the lights and stepping out the door.

Standing at the top of the hill that overlooked the peaceful little town of Ponyville I use the two in the morning moonlight to look for any movement of the streets. Only seeing guards lazily walking the main drag I turn to my left and fade back into the trees to loop around and get to the town hall in the least noticeable way. Slowly stalking through the trees I keep my shotgun raised, ready for anything to show itself, as I make my way around to the left flank of the town. Passing by where I had my sniper hide a while back I continue past it another hundred feet before stopping and crouching down.

Watching the town from the trees for around ten minutes, not seeing any movement and confirming the patterns of the guards were indeed unchanging. Raising from my kneel I stay crouched and hold the shotgun by receiver in my right hand and press my sword to my left thigh to make sure it didn’t bounce as I moved.

Taking a step out of the treeline I quickly, but silently as possible, make my way to the edge of town. The grass helping significantly with silencing my steps I slow as I approach the first buildings and fastly crouch walk over to them re-shouldering my shotgun.

Shoulder pressed to the building I calculate my steps to the end of the building before stepping out and sweeping the alley for targets, nothing presenting itself I sidestep back behind the next building.

Repeating the same process I eventually reach the narrow street that led to the back of the town building and then the square. Clearing it as well I silently walk down the alley in a ready stance, clearing the side streets that ran between the houses as I came upon them, quickly approaching my objective.

Reaching the back of the structure I check around me for anything before slowing my breathing and listening very closely to the things around me. Only hearing the hoof steps of guards on the square only tens of feet from me.

No time to lose I sling the shotgun and with a short jump grab ahold of the second balcony. Slowly pulling myself up I swing my leg over the railing and step onto the wooden deck boards of the balcony. Slinking over to the window I peek inside and slowly scan the room. Not seeing anything I pinch a section of the thin wooden frame that criss crossed the window cutting it into little boxes and pull the window slowly opening allowing access to the mayor’s office on the second story.

They should really lock their doors and windows, somebody could break in and take something. I think as I step into the office, closing the window behind me.

“Easy.” I mumble looking around the office for somewhere to hide until the princess arrived. Instantly noticing the closet in the wall to the left of the mayor’s desk I walk over to it and open the accordion door noticing that there was a squeak as the third panel folded.

Only open two. Looking inside the closet I notice all the cobwebs and dust that had accumulated in the cubby just as tall as me, Must not use it, nothing but dust in the closet I leave the closet door open as I turn around and start to clear the rest of the building.

“Clear.” whispering to myself I step back into the mayor’s office, “Also no better place to hide, the bottom level is just one big room and I’d rather have the high ground.”

Stepping back into the closet I close the door behind me and prop my shotgun in the corner waiting for the princess to arrive. Looking down to my watch I push the ‘glow’ button and sigh as I look to the time, “Only eight hours till noon… when she might arrive, she really didn’t give a time.”

“Nothin’ like being stuck in a closet with only your thoughts… well that has double meaning don’t it.” I snicker.

Watching the white haired but barely middle age looking pony named Mayor Mare do her paperwork creepily from the closet a commotion outside gets mine and her attention.

“That must be the princess,” Looking up from the desk she looks to a grandfather clock that was ticking away next to the door of the room, “ and a half hour early. Huh.”

The sound of a door opening down stairs causes both of us to perk up as the sound of numerous footsteps make their way into the building. The ever so easy to recognise voice of a commanding officer ordering others around finding its way through the floor and walls the sound of cheering from outside overpowers it.

The door to the office opening sith a small squeak another mare, this time with a mild yellow coat and blue mane, steps into the room.

“The princesses are here Ms. Mayor.” She says with a smile.

“Oh yes I heard… wait both of them?”

“Yep. Princess Luna has arrived as well, in company of quite the number of guards. Are you sure everything is going to be okay if that thing does show?” Her face changes to show more worry.

Nodding the mayor shows no worry, “I’m sure of it. Me and Princess Celestia talked earlier about this, and even if it does show she brought extra guards in case it tries anything.”

“Oh I see- Oh P-princess Celestia!” I see the mare bow before going to get back up, “and Luna. P-princess Luna my apologies!” She lowers herself and bows again.

“No need to fret citizen.” I hear Luna speak to the young mare as she gets back up.

“Thank you, I- I’ll just be outside.”

Rushing outside and closing the door behind her I hear Luna sigh and see Celestia look to her reassuringly, “It is only a matter of time sister,” She places a hoof on Luna’s shoulder with a smile, “Now let’s get this over with.”

Turning to Mayor Mare Celestia and Luna walk over to her desk. Getting out of her chair to bow Celestia holds out a hoof stopping her, “No need Mayor we are in your grace today, I do apologize for pushing this onto you.”

“That is quite alright Princess Celestia,” getting back into her chair she answers, “although are you sure it is safe for it to come here?”

Sighing Celestia shakes her head, “No, I can’t be sure of anything when it comes to this creature, he’s so unpredictable it’s impossible to know what he’s going to do.”

That’s what unpredictable means you redundant fat ass. I mock in my head.

“That’s the reason why I brought some extra guards with us.”

“I figured that you would princess, and no offence to you or the ponies that serve us but you’ve seen what that thing can do, I’m not too sure that extra guards could stop it if it really came to it.” The mayor expresses her concerns getting the nods of both Celestia and Luna.

“We reassure you that no harm will come to you any of Ponyville's residents.” Luna speaks catching the attention of the mayor.

“I’m not second guessing your word either princess but how can you be sure?”

“We appreciate your concern for our subjects but we also urge you to rest easy as it were, We... I guarantee nothing will happen. Personally.”

Nodding her head and thinking over what was said Mayor Mare calms herself, “Alright. What time are the Elements arriving if you don’t mind me asking?”

“The elements should be arriving at anytime now and then we wait until he arrives.” Celestia answers.

The door swinging open again a large stallion walks in a upgraded suit of armor signifying his rank.

“The Elements have arrived your majesties.” He firmly speaks giving a small bow.

“Thank you captain, we will be down shortly.” Celestia nods, “Any sight of the creature yet?”

“No Ma’am.”

“Keep an eye out would you, I would like some notice before it arrives.”

“Yes Ma’am.” He turns and walks out the door closing it behind him.

The sound of heavy hoof falls going down the stairs the two princesses turn back to the mayor.

“Things are right on schedule, that never happens.” Celestia and the mayor laugh in agreement.

“That’s an understatement.” The mayor giggles picking her quill back up, “I’ll be down in a little but I have paperwork to get done first.”

“I completely understand-” Prattling on about paperwork I slowly pick up my shotgun and start to slide the door open. Only opening the two that didn't squeak I step out of the closet and hold my shotgun in a normal stance.

Completely unaware of my presence, stuck in conversation, I stand still waiting for someone to notice me. Their conversation still going on I lean my head to either side cracking my stiff neck. The build up gas popping loudly the ponies freeze as they all slowly turn their heads to me.

Celestia’s and the mayor’s eyes sharing the same look of fear while Luna looks to me and rolls her eyes I take a step toward the ponies. Trying to escape by leaning away from me I clear my throat, “Sorry if this ain’t enough notice your majesty.” I say with venom pouring out of the word.

“W-why are you here?” Celestia asks trying to look like she wasn’t scared.

“Well ya didn't give me a time so I thought I’d come early.” I say as I pace around her, “That and you haven’t proven to be the most trustworthy person have you? Not to me at least.”

“What are you going to do?”

Her face and body language telling me that I was doing a good job I smirk, “ That all depends on what you do, or what you’ve ordered your guards to do when we step out that door.”

Hearing the mayor try to slide out of her seat no doubt to run and get the guards I turn my head to her and shake it ‘no’, “Don’t do that.” I softly order making her freeze.

“What would you do if she did?” Celestia asks causing me to look back to her.

“Shes seen what I can do.” I answer making both of them visibly more fearful.

“That right there,” I point to them both, “you jus’ realized how much time and opportunity I had to do anything if I really wanted.” I smirk.

“Maybe that shows you even when I could’ve had you all and that I did nothin’ maybe I mean no ill intent unless you fuck with me.” They both still look at me the same way.

“What do you say we get this over with?” I more or less order than ask.

Taking a deep breath in and letting a shaky one out Celestia gets out of her chair and tries to put on a brave face.

“Yeah that mask ain’t gonna work on me girl, I know yer scared.”

Her face immediately falling I grin at her and lazily point to the door with my shotgun, “C’mon let’s go.”

Slowly walking past me Celestia visibly tenses as if I was going to pounce on her. Looking to Luna as she walks past I see her roll her eyes at me again. Chuckling a little bit I she her give a small shake of her head before walking next to her sister.

“Sorry for the impolite interruption,” Say looking over my shoulder to the still froze in place mayor, “Oh and I recommend getting on the plumbing of the fountain before it’s too late, burst water pipes underground are always messy and cost a lot more to replace than repair.”

“--- ok.” She whispers.

Turning my head and walking to the door I smile, “After you.” I open the door and hold it for the two. Stepping through the door I follow and close it behind me.

“Please get the mayor a glass of water Ms. Page.” I request of the secretary as I walk past.

“Of course sirrrrr.” She snaps her jaw shut as she looks up from her paperwork and sees me following the princesses, “Oh gods it’s you.” She points a hoof to me while covering her mouth with the other.

“That it is, now please get the mayor a glass of water see looks like she just saw death.” I smile and cock my head to the side. While motioning for the princesses to descend the stairs.

Waiting for them to get into view of the ponies at the bottom of the stairs I hear the ponies at the bottom stir at the sight of their leaders.

“Princess are you alright? You look a little pale.” The captain asks in his weird surfer dude esque voice.

Now descending the stairs myself I round the part of the stairs that was hidden and clear my throat, “I must admit I’m not impressed by your guard’s performance Sun Cheeks, they didn’t even clear the building before you came in.” I start to laugh, “I mean imagine if someone was jus’ lying in wait ta hurt ya or somethin’.” I chuckle.

Reaching the bottom of the stairs behind the two princesses I lean against the wall and smile as all the ponies stared at me.

Twenty guards inside. I count in my head. Four above in the boxes, and the rest positioned around the bottom level evenly while two stand by each door.

“So we gonna get this sorted or what?” I ask pushing myself off the wall with my back and standing up straight.

The tension of the room rising as the guards start to come out of their stupor I look to the captain as his horn flares up along with the purple bitch next to him, opening his mouth I rack the shotgun putting a shell into the chamber I emptied in the morning.

“No need to get violent, as much as I would love the practice there ain’t no reason to start something that don’t need ta be.”

“Drop your weapons!” He orders at me stepping forward.

“No.” I shake my head.

“Drop the bucking weapons!” He yells stepping forward as his horn flares and a blue dome encloses me.

Giving me the stink eye as he walks to the princesses he drops his look as he looks to them, “It’s detained princess, form up guards.” He says as the guards slowly move toward the dome.

Slinging the shotgun I notice his horn still lit and crack my knuckles.

“No he is not.” Luna calmly adds.

Winding up a punch I throw it at the blue dome as it immediately cracks and breaks causing the captain to give a pained and surprised grunt as he wavers.

“No. How bout we don’t fuckin’ form up so I don't have redecorate this fucking building. Tired of this shit.” I walk over to the captain and grab him by the drag handle before picking him up and dropping him.

Legs failing to support him he falls to the floor with another grunt as the ponies around me gasp.

“You stupid son of a bitch.” Turning to the princess I hear his sword slide out of its sheath.

Turning back to him I see him holding his sword in his magic while he points it at me.

“Step away from the princess or I will -”

“You’ll what? Kill me?” I interrupt, “You know what I’ll help you.”

Dropping into a kneel I grab the blade of the sword and put it so the tip was slightly pushing the soft skin in of my neck. His eyes wide as he stares into mine I scoff and laugh, “What you think I’m afraid to die? I wanna die you fuck, death is easy. In fact-” Repositioning the blade so it was right above my jugular I stop and drop my hand, “all you have to do is hold it, I’ll slit my own throat.”

Pushing myself onto the blade he pulls it away as fast as I could go forward before I eventually have to put my hands down to catch myself from falling forward.

Grabbing the sword by the handle, canceling his magic, I stand up straight and throw it to the ground, “You ain’t gonna do shit.”

Looking to Celestia as she stares at me with her mouth agape I switch my line of sight to Luna as she looks at me worriedly.

“What never seen someone get their throat slit?” I spin around looking at all the ponies, “I have, I’ve done it, it’s amazing how much blood one person holds and how fast it all comes out.”

Standing in the middle of a full circle of ponies as they all stare at me with some kind of look on their faces I start to feel uncomfortable.

“We gonna get this shit over with or not? I still have to go to the bank.”

Standing still the captain finally gets back up and takes a place next to the princess eyeing me wearily.

“Humph” I grit my teeth looking at him.

“Sergeant Thorn please come forward.”

Limping forward with bandages wrapping his barrel he eyes me angrily.

Toothily grinning back he limps past me and bows to the princesses.

“Rise Sergeant Thorn,” Celestia softly speaks.

Standing tall the sergeant faces the princess.

“Do you swear to only tell the truth and only the truth?”

“Yes your majesty.”

Looking to me Celestia clears her throat, “Do you swear to tell the truth and only the truth?”

“Whatever sun cheeks.” I cross my arms.

“You’ll address Princess Celestia with respect!” The Captain demands.

“I’ll address her however the hell I like until she shows me some respect in return, respect’s a two way street, and she still calls me ‘it’ not ‘he’ or ‘him’. So fuck you and as far as I’m concerned fuck her.”

“You-.”

“Captain it is alright.” Celestia says looking to him, “Let us just get this over with.”

“....Alright princess.” He sighs and relaxes a little, still looking at me.

Looking back to me and sergeant small cock the princess regains her composure, “Sergeant Thorn why don’t we start with your story?”

“Of course princess.” Looking to me out of the corner of his eye I flip him off making him growl.

“On the day in question I was doing my duty and patrolling the area near the square when out of nowhere and covered in blood and sweat this beast comes to attack me. So I drew my sword and attempted to defend myself although in his pure savagery he was able to overcome even me. If it were not for the gazing eyes of the townspeople and my guards he most likely would have killed me in cold blood.”

“I see. Are there any of your fellow guards that witnessed this event that would back this story up?” She asks looking to the a group of guards.

Looking to the group myself they all gaze to me before quickly avoiding my gaze, uncomfortably shuffling around instead. Turning back around I look into Celestia’s eyes as she looks into mine, “How about your side of how the events unfolded.”

Blinking a few times I feel a small smile work its way onto my face as Celestia stars to look very uncomfortable.

I love messin’ with her.

Coughing I break my eyes from her, “Right. So first off the reason I was covered in blood and dripping with sweat is because on that particular mornin’ I took a run and on the trail to Canterlot a pony pulling a cart of his belongs to Ponyville from Canterlot was attacked by a Shuck. I promptly neutralized the threat before proceeding to amputate and stem an arterial bleed on one of the stallion’s leg that was already three quarters removed.”

Taking a breath I rub my forehead, “I told the trail guards to get a message to head of command to get the attack on file and hopefully get something done to lessen the chance of it happening again. This had to of happened because when I was headed home a week ago from Appleossa some guards on a bank detail mentioned that through princesses’ orders no one was to be out after dark, so that means you know of this incident Sun cheeks, right?”

“It came through my desk a while ago yes, and please don’t call me that.”

“Thank you Queen Marshmallow. So that means that my story so far is true. So after running him to Ponyville General and handing him over to nurse Red heart I was walking back to gather his wagon and bring it to his house he told me of.”

Continuing to explain I start to pace around.

“This is when the event in question transpired. On the walk back to the trail this little prick-” I point to the pony in question, “Calls me a monkey and says I have some nerve to show my face in his town or somthin’ like that, I don’t quite remember exactly, of course not going to let him get away with saying that I call him a needle dicked bug fucker-”

Snorting and giving a curt laugh before holding a hoof to her mouth everyone in the room switches their gaze to Luna. Laughing a little myself me and her lock eyes before we both give a few hearty laughs. Stemming her laughter she hums before immediately going stoic again, “We apologize for our outburst… please continue.”

Wiping the last traces of the smile on my face away I laugh one last time, “Anyway before I was so rudely interrupted…” I sarcastically say looking to Luna as she gives a small, almost unnoticeable, smile, “After calling the little guy that he got upset and drew his sword with my back turned to him. Hearing him draw said sword in time, plus his obviously choreographed and sloppy downward slice being the only thing that saved me, I parried said attack and proceed to neutralize the threat on my life. I honestly feel like I would have been in the right to kill him but I didn’t want to get in a whole mess like this, but maybe killing him would have been better.”

“Is that all?” Celestia asks.

“Yeah.”

“Is there anypony who would like to confirm this side of the story?” Looking back to the group of guards serving as witnesses she asks.

Looking myself the ponies look just as uncomfortable a familiar face steps forward out from behind the others where he was hidden, “Yes your majesty, I confirm this side of the story.”

“And who are you?”

“Private Clover Ma’am.” Saluting he stands at attention in front of his superior.

“I see, so you side with it… him over your commanding sergeant?” Cocking her head and squinting her eyes she asks.

“Yes Ma’am I do.” He gives a single nod.

Thinking for a second before nodding herself she switches her line of sight to the left of us where Applejack, Fluttershy, and the others , including the lizard, were standing rather uncomfortably.

“Ms. Applejack which party seems to be telling the truth? And please remember that these are very serious charges.”

“Of course your majesty.” She gives a respectful bow before walking forward, “Well from what Ah’ve felt so far Ah want to side with Hank here but Ah only have one thing to ask to make sure Ah can tell when he’s tellin’ the truth if you’ll let me.”

Smiling Celestia hums, “Of course.”

Looking to me I cross my arms again, “How old are you?”, she asks looking right into my eyes
Looking back at her I sigh, “Younger than twenty one older than ten.”

“Ah was lookin’ for a age.” She frowns.

“Too bad.” I huff.

“Well then how do Ah know if yer lyin’ or not?” Exasperated she stomps her front right hoof.

Rolling my eyes I groan, “Okay fine here’s a truth. My species is near extinction. Here’s a lie. I’ve never killed anyone. That help get your lie detector calibrated?”

“A little.” She grumpily confirms.

“Is your feeling still the same Ms. Apple?”

Sighing and looking to the ground she looks back up the the princesses, “Yes it is, Hank is tellin’ the truth and sergeant Thorn is lyin’.”

“You mudpony bitch!” Thorn yells spinning around and facing Applejack. Surprised by the outburst she takes a half step back, “You’re gonna side with that thing instead of a fellow pony!?” Angrily stepping toward her as his horn lights I feel something in my head snap instantly making my breathing heavy and my vision to go red.

Getting behind him in a instant right as his horn glows brightest I see AJ's eyes widen and grab onto his horn, cancelling whatever he was going to do while using it as a point to lift him up onto his hind legs. Spinning him around to face me, his brows furled and his teeth grit in anger, he throws a punch with his right hoof into my left side.

The blow completely stopped from having any force behind it by the plate carrier he goes to throw another punch that I anticipate and catch with my left hand. Taking my right hand from his horn I move it under his extended arm and cup the back of it where the tricep would be on a human all the way up nest to his torso. Pulling him into me I lock his arm to my chest as he struggles before quickly pulling toward me with my right and pushing with my left.

A sudden snap loudly making its way through the lower section of the building I grin as he starts to scream in pain. Letting go I take a step back and watch as he stumbles back trying to keep his balance as he holds he broken arm with his other. Turning to my side and bringing my right leg up as I lean back I let a kick go right as he looks up from his broken arm to my eyes, his own filled with tears.

The kick connecting directly with his upper chest he flies back and hits the wall behind him with a solid thud before sliding down and collapsing to his side on the floor. Walking toward him as he eyes me with fear I raise my right foot and prepare to bring it down on his skull to finish him but stop my foot right before it connected with the side of his head.

There's a kid here. I think turning around and looking to the lizard.

Turning around and looking down at the pony as he cracks open his previously clamped shut eyes and looks at me pleadingly I turn again and look to the ponies and lizard behind me before grunting and setting my foot down slowly to the floor.

Leaning down and roughly grabbing his broken arm I pull him up so he was standing up and leaning against the wall all while he screamed and cried.

"You such as touch a blonde hair upon her head or ever do anything to somebody I care about I will rip you limb from limb and skin you alive before cooking and eating you." I threaten.

Standing back up straight I look down to the shivering pony and tighten my right fist before quickly bringing it crashing across his face knocking him out and too the ground.

Taking in deep breaths and clenching my fingers into fists before fanning them out I calm myself.

“I wouldn't linger on gettin' him to the hospital, that kick could've broken his sternum and put razor sharp bone through his heart and lungs.” I look over to my shoulder to the princess.

Only nodding in response I roll my shoulders and nod myself before walking toward the door.

“Excuse me.” I say as I step past the six as they stare at me with different expressions, not caring I walk to the door and open it before stepping outside into the sunlight. Catching a last glimpse of the shocked ponies inside I close the door and stand tall.

Taking in a breath of fresh air I let it replace the musty indoor air the town hall was filled with and slowly exhale, also using the action to calm myself. Turning my head I stop at the bank and start to walk toward it, ignoring the ponies as they stopped what they were doing to stare.

Cracking my knuckles the familiar feeling of slick blood on my fingers makes me look down to my hands, stopping just before the bank I notice the dirt road and bend over, picking up a handful of loose soil.

Rubbing it all over my hands to dry up the blood I throw the reddened dirt back to the ground and wipe the excess on my vest before continuing my way to the bank.

Walking up the white stairs to the building I hear the solid rubber soles of my boots clicking on the stone. Stopping at the door I see two old mares slowly making their way toward the door. Opening it for them and holding it they both look at me before smiling and speeding up a little as they clear the door.

“Why thank you.” The mare nearest to me thanks in the typical friendly grandma voice.

“No problem ma’am, both y’all have a nice day now.” I bow my head with a smile and start to enter the bank.

“He’s quite polite for a monster isn't he?” I hear the mare that thanked me state with a laugh.

“Why yes he his, but have you seen the lead story on the R.P.O.’s paper? It looks just like him and apparently he…” Closing behind me the door cuts of the ponies’ conversation as I stand in the dead silence of the bank.

Walking into line behind a pony as I wait to see the cashier the mare I was behind starts to nervously jitter and fumble on her words as she tries to do her business.

“Could you p-please p-p-put this in m-my c-checking.” Looking over her shoulder one more time she locks onto my eyes as I casually look into hers. Pupils shrinking a strange but definitely scared sound escapes her lips as she stumbles around before spinning and trying to book it past me.

Slipping on the tile floor she more or less runs in place for a few seconds before starting to make it forward. Leaning over and placing a hand down in front of her she instantly locks up. Sliding into my hand her soft chest hair tickles in between my fingers as she lets loose a gasp and locks her eyes shut. Sighing I take my hand from her chest before wrapping it under her and picking her up. Squeaking in my grip I turn her around before placing her back where she started facing the service counter. Picking up her little book that got knocked to the floor in the commotion I set it in front of her on the counter before standing back up.

Crossing my arms I tap the back of her leg with my foot making her jump a little.

“C’mon get yer business done.”

Looking around her all panicked like when she realized she was back to square one I sigh, “I ain't gonna hurt ya jus’ get what you need ta in the damned checking account-” Pinching the bridge of my nose I shake my head a little, “ you ponies are more skittish than wild rabbits.”

Nervously turning her head away from me she whispers something to the teller who nods and takes the paper. Getting her receipt back she doesn’t care to put it away and instead slowly creeps around me like I was going to lunge at any second before shooting off like a bullet toward the door.

Jumping a little as the door slams behind me I take a deep breath and walk forward to the counter toward the middle aged mare. Pulling the bounty note out of my pocket I start unfolding it.

“You should of just let her run you know.”

Looking up to the pony I look into her eyes for a second before looking back down to the paper, trying my best to show her I didn’t give a shit.

“How do you think picking up ponies without asking and kicking them is going to make them like you?”

Looking up again to see her till looking at me with that ‘you should be ashamed’ look I drop my arms and throw my head back with a groan.

“Look, I ain’t stupid. I know you ponies will never see me as more than an animal or monster, I jus’ like being a nice guy I’m not trying to gain your communities’ affection.”

“Well how do you expect us to see as more than a animal when that’s how you’ve acted?”

“Oh right because saving your town, bitch of a princess, and saving a life on the trail are all things animals do… right.” I huff.

“What about all the needless killing?” She leans forward toward me.

Kind gotta respect her for not being a pushover, a cunt, but not a pushover. I think not listening to what else she had to say.

“You ain't never seen needless killin’ lady.” Something about how I said it or my face must of disturbed her because she immediately leaned back and lowered her ears. Stepping forward to the very edge of the counter and leaning over I place my hands on the marble surface as I leaned over her.

“Needless killin’ is seein’ a family get slaughtered by two thugs over a backpack full of soup, that’s needless.” I say deadpan, “What’s even more needless is when two of the four killed were under ten years of age, that’s needless.”

Standing back up straight I sigh and put the paper down, “Forget it, you won’t listen anyway… Jus’ put ninety thousand in savings and send ten thousand to the Appleloosa Sheriffs department, more specifically Sheriff Silver Star.”

Looking at me like a grew a second head she scoffs before looking down to the bounty note and immediately switching her expression to shock and disbelief.

“What! W-w-where did you get this?” She stutters pointing to the paper.

“I frankly don’t think that’s any of your damn business,” I put my hands on my hips, “but if you must know I killed all the members of the Badland Cleavers before they could kill anymore ponies and rob the bank, you know animal stuff.” I cross my arms.

Checking over the document definitely doubting its legitimacy she waves over another pony who comes over slowly, eyeing me all the while. The new arrival checking it over slowly and methodically she looks to the original pony and nods before looking to me and nervously smiling.

Slinking away, just leaving me and the bitchy teller, I look to her, “So…”

“Uh...right. Saving correct?”

“Yes, and the transfer to Sheriff Silver Star.”

Momentarily leaving her post to go to the back I hear a muffled conversation before a gasp and more chattering.

“Sure do gossip a lot don’t they?” I turn and ask the random pony in the line left of me, of course as they stare at me not saying anything.

“I’ll take that as a yes.” I say as the teller steps out from around the back with the note and another piece of paper in her mouth.

Setting them both down on the counter she looks up to , “You can keep the poster if you want but the stamp in the back states that it has already been cashed out, and this,” She points to the whiter, newer paper, “is the receipt that states what transactions were processed.”

“So you did transfer the money to the Sheriff?” I ask folding both pieces of paper back up.

“You can’t read?” She laughs.

Staring deadpan at the mare as she gives me a shit eating grin I decide that I’d had enough of her. Turning on my heel I start walking toward the door opening the glass door I hear a snicker from behind me.

Snapping around I rush up to the counter right in front of the mare, her eyes going wide she leans back in her chair to far and falls to the floor with a thud. Crouched on top of the counter I smile at the mare as she lays on her back with her hooves tucked up like a puppy expecting belly rubs.

“Feel that feeling in your chest? The one that makes it feel empty except for the rapid beating of your heart? The feeling that almost makes you want to bust out cryin’ like you’re a toddler wantin’ mommy? Remember it, remember who’s messin’ with fire here alright.” I chuckle slowly getting down from the counter, “You never know what a wild animal is liable to do after all.”

Slowly turning around and walking to the door no other sound comes from the mare and I smile before exiting the bank.

Stepping out into the street once again I’m greeted with the warm rays of the sun as it shone brightly in the midday sky. Looking left then right, ponies milling about like normal in both directions, I slide down the smooth stone edges of the stairs and onto the dirt that made up the roads.

Maybe I should run by the hospital and see if he made it? I think idly tapping my fingers against my thigh, why not?

Taking a large, exaggerated, first step I start through the square in the direction of the hospital, Ponies parting like the red sea around me.

Walking up to the front doors I swing one open before stepping into the clinical white lobby. The lobby seemingly empty, minus a few ponies who looked like they were just there for some minor tests or a prescription refill as they talked and laughed with the ponies beside them.

Slowly walking to reception so my boots wouldn’t click too much on the tile I reach the half moon desk and place my palms on the cold surface as I lean over the desk looking anyone behind it. Humming at the lack of a pony I take my palms from the surface where they had left condensation from the difference of temperature between the countertop to my hands.

Walking to the left where the hallway was I feel a soft force impact my leg before bouncing off.

“Oof.” Nurse Red Heart exclaims from her sitting position on the floor with the back of her hoof to her forehead.

“Oh sorry, didn’t even see you there,” I bend over and offer a helping hand, “Ya alright?”

“Yes I’m fine, if I can get kicked in the jaw by a filly who doesn’t want her shots falling on my flank wont hurt me.” Red heart laughs and takes my hand.

Gently pulling her up I let go and stand back up, “Still, I’m sorry about runnin’ into ya.”

“Oh Mr. Hank!” Red heart says in exclamation as she looks up to me, “I didn’t realize it was you I thought I ran into a minotaur.”

“Nope jus’ me.”

“I thought I recognised the voice, I was just off in my own little world and didn’t even realize.”

“It happens.”

Taking a step back so she didn't have to look almost straight up at me Red heart smiles, “So what are doing here, it’s been a few weeks.”

Raising an eyebrow I smirk at the mare,“ Counting the days anxiously until my return I see.”

“Well no I... it’s just easy to remember the first time you came in.” Her blush deceiving her as she tries to find a way out of the question I laugh as she looks at me unamused before giving a small tisk herself and shaking her head.

“ Ahhh… I’m jus’ jokin’ ya,” I wave off before I feel the happiness leave my face and chest, “But I uh did come by to see if the stallion I carried in lived or not.” The air around us switches to a much more serious one.

“Mr. Flint?”

“Dunno, the one I cut the arm off of.” I shrug, “Never got his name.”

“Yes, that would be Mr. Flint,” She nods and smiles, “He did live, incredible really, but uh... he’s visiting with is family right now down the hall.”

The feeling of dread lifting from my shoulders I smile and nod, “Good, I’m glad. I jus’ came by to know if he made it or not so I’ll get outta yer hair.”

“No wait!”

Stopping in my tracks I turn around and look back to Red, “Hmm?”

“He’s been persistent in asking if you’ve been by, he really wants to meet you.”

“Someone wanting to meet me?” I laugh pointing a finger to myself, “That can’t be, you sure he ain’t asking if I’ve been by so I don’t eat him or somethin’?”

Squinting her eyes and shaking her head she blows air through her nose, “What? No. Why would anypony think that?”

“You’d be surprised.” I say crossing my arms.

“Well, no he’s told me explicitly that if you came by to have you come back and see him under any circumstances.”

“Really?” I start to tap my foot.

“Yes, really. Why do you find it so hard to believe that somepony would want to see you?” She asks as we start to walk down the hall to what I presume would be Flint’s room.

“Well I don’t know if you’ve noticed but the entire town is afraid of me, I’m called the Everfree Monster, and the entire populous apparently thinks I drag ponies into the woods before raping and eating them so… I have no idea.”

“Seriously?”

“Yeah. How have you not at least heard any of that?” I ask in disbelief as we continue to walk down the hall.

“Well I spend a lot of time here and I don’t get off until night has fallen so I don't interact much with ponies who aren’t my patients.”

Looking down to the pony I notice just how tired she looked before she looks up and smiles at me.

“We need to get you a day off so you can relax.” I suggest to the pony to which she just shakes her head.

“I can’t, we’re already short staffed.”

“Yes you can and you know it, hell I’ll get you a day off.”

Laughing she amusedly looks up to me, “and how will you do that?”

“I think it’s kinda hard for ponies to say no to me.”

“Why?”

“I’m intimidating.” I state.

“You’re not intimidating…”

Looking down to Red with just my regular face, no smile, no frown, no emotion I look at her for three seconds before her pupils start to contract and her breathing starts to pick up before she looks away.

“Okay maybe you are a little intimidating.”

“A little? I just saw an instinctual response in you to run from me.” I laugh.

“No you didn't.” We stop at a wooden door with a medium sized window in the middle.

“Yes I did, your pupils contracted, your breathing quickened, I saw your body tense. All signs of biological fear.”
Frowning Red heart sighs and peeks into the door, “There is a visitor here to see you Mr. Flint.”

The sounds of light conversation suddenly stop as I hear a bed creak with movement.

“Oh is it him!?” An excited voice asks.

Redheart’s bun bouncing as she nods in confirmation she peeks back out the door and looks to me, telling me to go into the room with her eyes.

Rolling mine she steps out of the way while I make my way to the open door.

“Now he looks… different but he’s nothing to be scared of.”

Walking into the room the conversation quiets back down as all three sets of eyes settle on me.

“However he does look a little bit bigger and different than I remember.” Flint states from his propped up position in the bed.

The door softly closing behind me I turn around out of reflex before turning back to the three, “Well your sense of sight is one of the first things to go with severe blood loss, along with your other senses.”

“Oh.”

“Plus the utter shock of seeing something so ugly probably didn’t help.” I say looking to the small colt that was partially hiding behind his mother.

Giggling the effect causing the entire room to lose some of the nervousness that floated in the air I hum and give a small smile before looking back to Flint.

Ah, self deprecating humor, always works.

“I don’t believe I ever got your name.” He says holding out his hoof that wasn’t missing.

Taking the few steps over to his bedside I hold out my hand and grip his hoof before firmly shaking it, “Hank.”

“Hank?” He looks looks puzzled sitting up in his bed, “That’s it?”

“Yep, that’s it.” I nod pulling my hand back.

“Huh, that’s easy to remember, lots easier than some pony names.” he lightly laughs.

“Yeah, I’ve noticed. Some of y’all’s names are pretty damned creative.” I smirk, “Your’s seems pretty reasonable though.”

“Oh Flint, yeah, easy to remember.”

Stepping back I lean against a countertop in the room and cross my arms, “Definitely better than some of the wacky things I’ve heard so far.”

Sitting in silence for a few awkward moments Flint looks to me and opens his mouth to say something before closing his jaw and looking away.

“What?” I prompt.

Swinging his head back to me he steeles his gaze and looks at me right in the eyes, “What exactly are you?”

“Oh, I’m a human.” I answer, visibly calming the brown pony, “Did ya think I was gonna get mad at ya fer askin’?”

“Didn’t know if that would make you upset or not. It’s not exactly a kind question.”

“Ah don’t sweat it,” I wave my hand dismissively, “I know I have ta look strange to y’all.”

Nodding his head he laughs a little, “That’s an understatement.”

Smiling myself the little colt that was still sat beside his mother gets done whispering to her and looks to me, “W-what is all that all t-that stuff on y-you m-m-mister?” He stutters not out of fear or terror but out of a noticeable speech impediment.

“All this?” I pat on my plate carrier and helmet.

“Mhm.” He nods.

“This all my protective gear, armor, it enables me to do my job.”

“Armor! Like a k-knight!?” He stands up and gasps excitedly.

Chuckling at his antics I smile, “Not quite, I don’t serve any princesses or anything.”

“Than what is yo-your job?” He cocks his head still noticeable excited.

“Well I… I uh…” Thinking of a way to say ‘kill bad things’ in a way so he didn’t become afraid of me or anything I stop.

“He protects good ponies from bad ones.” His father steps in and answers for me.

Looking to the pony I nod in thanks which he returns with a small smile.

“I t-th-hought you s-said you weren’t a knight?”

“I’m not, knights are heros, I’m no hero.”

“Well yo-you’re my hero, you saved my d-d-d-dad, I-I would be really sad without my dad. When I heard my d-dad was hurt I-I got really scared bu-but then when I heard he was o-okay I was so h-happy, a-and you’re the o-one who saved him so-so you’re m-my hero.” He finishes with a little smile on his face.

My eyes starting to burn a little bit I divert my line of sight so they couldn’t see my eyes and take a few shuddery breaths. Not used to being called a good person or anything near a hero a small smile starts to work it's way onto my lips as a choked laugh escapes my throat.

“A-are you o-okay m-mister?” I hear the same small voice call out.

“Y-yeah, I’m fine.” I answer as I start to feel the dam break that held all but a trickle of the memories and scenes of the things I’ve done and had to do return. The mask that I wore on my face at all times starting to crack I grit my teeth and hit myself in the chest with a balled up fist snapping me out of it, Not now, now here, never again. Men don't cry. I berate myself in my head before turning back to the trio.

Flint and his wife’s looks both showing concern the young colt looks at me with the innocent look of youth.

“It’s jus’ the uh air in here,” I wave my hand around in a circle next to the side of my head, “I’m not used to being places this sterile.” Lying, the two ponies either believe me or decide to drop it as their faces loose the look of concern.

“How did you-u get those scars mister?” The young colt asks, breaking the tension.

“Cobble!” His mother immediately berates, “That’s not nice.”

“S-sorry m-mom.” Flattening his ears and looking to the floor he apologizes.

“It’s fine miss, he’s jus’ curious after all.” I smile and wave to the pony getting her to relax.

“So which one do ya mean? I got a few.” I ask and smile as the young pony immediately looks up to me.

“Those ones.” He points to the ones that I got from the wolf in town.

“These?”

He nods.

“I got these from the same type of wolf that hurt your dad but instead it got into town. Its claws caught me.”

“T-that musta h-hurt pretty bad.” He winces a little.

“Ah nah I’m used to gettin’ hurt.” I tisk.

“W-what about that one?” He instead points to the one that ran across the front of my face and messed up my lips.

“I fell down the stairs and a piece of metal got me.”

“Really!?”

“Mhm.” I nod my head.

“I-I f-ell down the stairs too!” He turns around and reveals a large horizontal scar across the bottom of his head where no fur was growing. Turning back around he smiles, “I-it happened when I-I was young a-a-a-and caused me to h-have this s-stutter, its r-really annoying.” He frowns.

“It’s not annoyin’, it makes you you. Plus look at it this way, you must be a pretty tough cookie to get hurt like that and keep on goin’.”

“Really?”

“Hell yes,” I nod, “I bet plenty of adults would of taken it lots worse than you did.”

“I-I never thought of it l-like that.” He states perking up.

“Always gotta think of a positive little guy.”

Everyone in the room smiling Flint clears his throat, “Would you like to jo get some juice from the cafeteria bud?” He asks Cobble, the young colt immediately perking up.

“Yeah! Yeah!” He jumps.

“Could you take him dear?”

“Of course honey.” The mare smiles and gets up out of her chair, “Come on hun let’s go.”

“Okay m-mom.” He replies as the two make their way out of the door.

Closing with a click I turn my head from the door to Flint to see him smiling while staring at the door the two just left out of. Smile never leaving his face he looks over to me, “I love them both so much.”

“As you should, you got a real nice family here Flint.”

“I know, and I owe it all to you that I’m here with them today alive and not at a closed casket funeral.”

“Hey ya can’t think like that, you’re alive, that’s what matters; not why or how.”

“You have no idea how thankful I am.”

“There’s no need. I help people in trouble anybody would of done what I did.” I shrug.

“No pony could of killed that monster and then administered professional aid and then run three kilo hoofs as fast as you did!” He scoffs at me and laughs.

“If they could’ve they would’ve.”

“No they-..” Sighing and shaking his head he looks to me, “You’re stubborn you that.”

“Oh yeah.” I laugh, "One of my best qualities."

“That’s debatable…” He says under his breath, “Okay just, are you the one who dragged my cart home and brought everything inside?”

“Yes.”

“Oh for the love of Celestia’s flanks.” Pinching his nose with his hoof that was left he grumbles.

“She does have a nice rear though doesn’t she?” I add.

“Yes she does, frankly I don’t know what I would do if.. Hey! Don’t change the subject.” he squints his eyes at me.

Giggling to myself he shakes his head, “I’m not going to be able to give you anything in return am I?”

“Noooooo.” I say shaking my head, still giggling.

“Fine. Either way I thank you, I thank you a thousand times over for what you did for me.”

“Don’t sweat it, jus’ enjoy the time you have with your son and wife.”

“I will.”

The door to my left swinging open quietly ma and Flint both turn our attention to it as Cobble and Flint’s wife walk in with four glasses of red liquid on a small platter that Cobble’s mom balanced on her back.

Stepping next to the table and sliding the platter of her back and onto the table top she hands two glasses to Cobble and nods her head to us. Holding one cup in his mouth and the other pinched with his hoof he walks over to me and his dad before giving his dad a glass and then giving me one as well.

“Thanks little dude.” I smile and mess up the hair on his head while accepting the glass. Smiling back to me he quickly turns around and returns to his spot next to his mother. Swirling the juice in the glass I give it a second to stop swirling on its own and bring it to my lips before tilting my head back. Using the same move I did in the saloon with Braeburn I down the entire glass and bring my head back to a idle position while lowering my forearm until it made a ninety degree angle with my bicep.

I hope I can pull this off because if I don’t I’ll look really stupid. I think before throwing the glass up in a slow top over bottom spin. Almost grazing the ceiling the glass starts to fall back toward the ground in a arch. Timing it just right I open my palm and smack the bottom of the glass as it fell past my chest, killing the spin and sending it back into the air toward the ceiling.

Watching as the glass stopped its final spin at the top of its arch I spin around and hold my hand out where I thought it would fall behind my back, waiting a second I feel the impact of the glass in my hand and immediately clamp down on it with my fingers.

Fuck yeah, got it.

Bringing my hand from behind my back I flick my wrist and let go of the glass, letting it do one more rotation before grabbing it and setting it down on the countertop gently. Standing back up and turning to the three I smile.

“Whooooaaaaaa,” Cobble exhales, “that was c-crazy.”

“That was impressive Hank. Where’d you learn how to that?” Flint asks.

Scratching the side of my face I pick up my shotgun I leaned against the counter next to me and sling it over my shoulder, “When you spend two years alone tryin’ yer best not ta go insane you pick up strange little skills. That one started off as a way to keep myself occupied.”

“Oh… I see.” He uncomfortably laughs.

“Yeah, really gave me time to draw too, I have a lot of these weird little skills I taught myself.”

Clearing my throat I sigh, “Well y’all it was very nice but I think I’m gonna head out.”

“Awwwww,” Cobble huffs, “Do you r-really have t-to?”

Walking over to him and couching down so my ass and calves were touching I pat him on the head and ruffle his hair a little, “Fraid so bud, got a garden back home and I’m afraid the animals will get into it.” I say as a, not completely false, answer.

“Oh, Okay!” He perks up and smiles, “What kind of an-animals do you have though?”

Standing back up I groan with a smile, “Well I got these really weird and big frogs and these really big and weird cats and they are always up ta somethin’.”

“Huh, cool.”

“Yeah.” I stand up, my back and knees popping as I do so.

Walking over to the door and popping it open I turn my body and wave to the ponies, “It was a pleasure meeting all y’all.”

“Very nice formally meeting you as well Hank.” Flint waves with a smile, “Please come by and visit sometime as well, I’m getting out of here tomorrow if all goes well.”

“Will do, I know where you’re at.”

Turning my attention to Cobble I wave to him, to which he waves back with a grin, before stepping out the door and closing it behind me. Checking up and down the hallway, finding it barren of any ponies, I sigh leaning against the tile wall taking my shotgun of my shoulder and holding it at idle unconsciously.

Closing my eyes I take a deep. Using some common breathing exercises to calm myself my thought process is hijacked as the sound of the hospital is slowly faded out as my heart rate starts to sky rocket.

Oh no.

Hearing nothing other than my own heavy breathing and seeing nothing other than nonpermiable darkness the flashes start.

A seemingly endless stream of squenced snapshots playing like a projector in my eyes. Gunfire, blood, faces of rotting corpses, faces of the infected as they shrieked and rushed toward me, more blood, a slowed down vision of an infected taking part of my right breast of with its teeth as I was pinned under it, the blood erupting from the hole in my chest as the skin and muscles stretched and snapped, the infected’s brain and skull exploding as the round escaped the barrel in its mouth, and more all playing over and over in vivid detail the sounds and scents even coming back. They start to fade out.

Slowing turning back to the darkness I start to become aware of my body again as my hearing starts to fade in as well. The occasional flash coming back suddenly, loudly, out of the darkness, I flinch every time until the cease entirely.

Vision fading from black, to white, and slowly back in I notice I on my hands and knees staring at the tile floor where a large amount of sweat had accumulated. Bringing a shaky hand to my forehead I wipe off the sweat that was dripping from the area before using my sleeve to mop up the sweat on the floor.

Looking to my side where the shotgun was lying next to me I pick it up with my left before using it as a balance to help me stand. Grunting as I rise to my feet I pick the Remington up and hold it properly as I make sure nobody saw my little neurotic episode.

Thankfully nobody seemingly to have seen me I grunt and start my way back toward the lobby. Hugging the right wall, using it to lean on when my balance failed me, I wait for my strength to return to my body.

Panting as I found it hard to keep air in my lungs I pause my stumble forward and lean heavily onto the wall with my right forearm as the world spun around me.

“I hate hospitals.” I wheeze. Trying my best to remain upright. The hall around me starting to slow its shaking motions my lungs start to refill to their regular capacity and work as good as they usually did. The pounding behind my eyes fading with the red bursts that covered my peripheral vision my vision returns to normal and I stand back up regularly, my body coming back from its self induced bullshit.

“T-those are even worse than the flashbacks and nightmares,” I mumble to myself as I rub my still wet forehead, “and when one happens it brings on the lot of ‘em.”

As back to normal as I would be for the rest of the day or few I start back to the lobby, reaching it not long after I wave to Redheart as she sat bored at the main desk and walk out of the doors. Slowly making my way down the front steps of the hospital, unsure if my legs could support me.

“Um Hank…” I hear the familiar voice of Redheart behind me.

“Hmm?” Turning around to face her she slips the rest of the way out of the door.

“Is this you?” Presenting the front page of the R.P.O’s paper to me I see the surprisingly high quality photo of me leaning on the dead minotaur like a jukebox.

“You know any other flat faced, tall, hairless, being that always wears a full kit?”

“Well, no.”

Nodding my head I resling my shotgun, “Then that kinda tells ya don’t it?”

“Do you have any idea how badly you could of gotten hurt!?” Suddenly angry at me she steps forward, letting the newspaper fall to the steps below.

“Did you really jus’ ask me that? Of course I know what coulda happened to me Red.”

“Oh don’t you ‘Red’ me,” Frowning she steps toward me, “You could of gotten yourself killed Hank.”

“No shit, that tends to be a risk when you fight people to the death.” I shrug.

Huffing she looks from left to right exasperated before staring into my eyes, “You can't just do that.”

“Do what? What I’m good at? Why not?”

“Because you’ll end up getting yourself killed.” She pokes my chest with the tip of her hoof.

“Better me than a town fulla folk who’ve done nothin’ wrong.”

Her gaze immediately switching from mad to a look one would give another when they just learned the person’s parents died she slowly lowers her hoof, “How could you say that?”

“Say what?” I ask perplexed at the pony’s switch in tone.

“That I’d be better for you to die instead.”

“Because it’s true, better me than some innocent person.”

“What have you done wrong? Huh!?”

Staring into the pony’s eyes as she stares back I sigh and lean back, looking into the cloudless sky, “ Horrible, horrible things that if I didn’t do I would be dead. Things that no sane person could ever understand as to why I did them and things that make it so sometimes I wish I were dead so I couldn’t see them anymore.”

Bending down so I was eye level with her I gently place my hands on the sides of her head and look directly at her while her white coat starts to turn red, “Jus’ let me do my job okay? You ain't gonna sway me, it’s who I am. Okay?”

“O-okay.” She mutters.

“Good.” I take my hands of her and stand up with a smile.

“What if you get hurt?”

“I’ll get hurt, bleed, scar, and start over again, or die. Really that’s the only thing I am sure of anymore.”

“Or you could come here. I’m more than happy to fix you up.”

“I’ll keep that in mind Red.” I smile before turning around and starting to walk away, “Oh.” I stop holding up a finger while spinning around, “Bout you gettin’ that day off....”

“What about it?” Cocking her head to the side she asks.

“Well I already know you don't want to take it, you don't think you need to, but you do.” I point out, “So I’m going to offer either: I pay for you to go out somewhere and relax or to cook for you one night so you can stay in and finally unwind.”

“Oh are you?” She smirks, her mood slowly improving.

“Yes.”

“What to say I’ll apply for a day off? What if I just don't do it?” Keeping her smirk she hums.

Leaning in close to her so my face was only a foot away from hers her face immediately adopts the wide eyed look I was familiar with, “You’re goin’ to apply for a day off and when I come back next Wednesday you’re going to tell me when that day is.” I say in a quiet tone smirking myself.

“O-okay.” She agrees.

“Perfect!” I stand back up and clap my hands, “Now do you want to go out or stay in?”

“Stay in.” She answers immediately before squinting her eyes, “Wait, this sounds kinda like a date.”

“No worries there Red, no romance, no feelings, nothin’ fishy. I don’t even have to be there if that makes you uncomfortable, I am going to make sure you take a day off though.”

“Oh? Sounds kinda romantic to me.”

Grinning and giving me sultry eyes I laugh and cross my arms, “Believe me I wouldn’t want ta torture anybody that bad. Date me? Psh. That’s funny. Now what ya want to eat?”

“Surprise me.”

Nodding my head I rub my chin, “Already got somethin’ in mind.”

“What is it?”

“A surprise, now get your ass in there and get that day off.” I chuckle and wave my hand to the hospital behind her.

Feigning offense she turns around, whipping my ass with her tail. Walking back to the doors she turns her head to the side to show a mischievous grin and eyes full of mirth.

Smiling back I blow a kiss and turn around, laughing as I start my way back to the main drag. A thoroughly good mood taking away my feel of dread while putting a smile on my face

Huh, look at that, a chapter appeared. That's rare.

This is actually a larger chapter split in two so it wouldn't be a 21,000 or so block of text for y'all to read in one go. I'll release the other half in a week or so to keep ya satisfied while I take another month to write a new one... kill me.

Anyway with the usual out of the way I'll talk about the chapter some. If you think Hank is too flirty or are worried about relationships being rushed. Don't be. I plan to pace things as well as I can, Hank just has a sexual, flirty, dirty, and offensive sense of humor.

The next update in a week so brace for it. There's a pretty, dare I say, good, fight scene in it. Well, good for my skill level of writing. Take that as you will.