>"... and that's how I made Detective." Shining says.
>You prop your head on your arm, rolling your eyes at your brother's attempt to look cool.
>Well, he is cool, but right now he's doing it in such an embarrassing way.
>Even Officer Top rolls her eyes.
>Chrysalis claps her hands together like one of those anime school girls that Shiny likes to watch.
>"Wow that's so cool! I've always thought a man with a badge was really attractive."
>"Thanks, Cadance thinks so."
>The car comes to a stop outside the police station when Shining gets out of the car and moves around and opens Chrysalis's door.
>"Copper will drive you home Twily. I'll see you later."
"B-but... okay... bye Shiny."
>The two walk up the front steps and into the building leaving you and the police officer alone in the car.
>"Hey kid, you want to sit up front?"
"... if that's okay."
>"Hey, family of Armor's is family to me." she says with a smile. "If you want there's a bag of doughnuts up here too if you're hungry."
>You exit the car and switch to the passenger seat.
>Officer Top pulls the vehicle out of the parking lot and drives to your house.
>Despite you grabbing a doughnut out of the bag and eating that as a substitute for dinner, you can't help but feel worried about your brother.
>The ride to your house is silent, so Officer Top turns on the radio for you.
>Some generic pop star flavor of the month comes in over the speakers, causing you to cringe a little.
>"Kid you okay?"
"Not really..."
>"Hey you hungry or something? I know doughnuts are good and all but they ain't a meal. My treat."
>You smile but shake your head.
"Sorry, but I think my parents are worried enough as it is."
>"Eh, sure thing kid. But if you change your mind before we get there let me know."
>Eventually you reach your home. You thank the officer and head towards the front door when Officer Top rolls down her window and calls out to you.
>"Hey Twilight, gotta a question."
"Yes?"
>"Did you feel something... off about that lady you and Shining were with?"
>You nod.
>"Thought so. Look I know you're worried about your brother and to be honest so am I. That lady just screams shady."
>Part of you wants to bring up the magical signature your magic-o-meter picked up but decide against it.
>It's not like anyone besides your friends would believe you.
>"Don't you worry Twilight, I'll keep an eye on him." she says giving you a comforting smile. "After all, he's getting married soon ain't he?"
"Mmhmm, in a month."
>"Well I'll do my best to keep him out of the dog house till then."
"Thank you Officer Top."
>She chuckles, "Kid, just call me Copper when its just us. I'll see you later."
>Waving goodbye, the police car drives off into the night.
>You walk up the pathway to the front door and pull out your keys.
>Before you insert them into the lock, the door swings open and a pair of arms drags you inside.
>"Oh Twilight where were you?! Your father and I were worried sick!" you mom says squeezing you into a tight hug.
"M-Mom!"
>Your mother begins assaulting you with a barrage of questions while looking your body over.
>"Did something happen? Are you alright? Did you eat?"
"Mom I'm fine. I just got caught up with Shining Armor in something."
>"With Shining? What was it?"
"Er... uh... I'll tell you later!"
>"Twilight?" your mom says with that tone of voice.
>The one that says, "Don't keep secrets from me."
"SorryIfeelreallytiredrightnowI'llseeyouinthemorning!"
>You run upstairs and slam the door to your room shut.
>Exhaling, you set your bag down and set the magic-o-meter on your desk.
>You'll work on it tomorrow.
>Taking off your shoes and socks, and changing your clothes for your pajamas, you lay onto your bed.
>"Hiya Twilight!" a voice says from under your bed.
"Hi Spike."
>Your small purple companion crawls out from his hiding spot and jumps up onto the bed next to you.
>He sniffs the air before panicking.
>"Twi?! Why do you smell like bloo... were you in danger?!"
"A little. But Shiny took care of me."
>Spike suddenly looks crestfallen, "I wasn't there to protect you..."
"Oh don't worry Spike, they'll be other situations."
>You pet your dog as he cuddles up next to you and licks your face.
>Pulling your phone out of your pocket, you debate calling Sunset or even Anon about Chrysalis.
>There's just something off about her but you don't know what.
>But looking at the time, they're most likely asleep right now.
>Sighing, you plug your phone into the charger and set it on the nightstand.
"Hey Spike, you want to see Sunset and the other's tomorrow?"
>Your furry little friend jumps up excitedly, "Oh boy would I?! It's been awhile since I've seen Sunset, Fluttershy, Rarity and the others!"
>You giggle at Spike's enthusiasm.
"Okay, first thing in the morning we'll go pay them a visit at Applejack's farm."
>"Sweet! I can visit Winona too! It's been a long time since I sniffed her butt."
"Er... yeah. Well goodnight Spike."
>Taking off your glasses, you set them next to your phone and turn out the light.
>...
>"Hey Twilight?"
"Yes Spike?"
>"Do you have any human butts you like to sniff?"
"No Spike. Humans don't do that."
>"But Shining Armor said you liked to kiss butts a lot so I just thought..."
"What."
>"Yeah, he was really angry when he left the house looking for you."
"Well I'll ask him about that later."
>"Okay."
>...
>...
>"Twilight?"
"Yes Spike?"
>"I was in your room all day... I need to go out..."
>You groan.
"Alright..."
 
-----
 
"Thanks Dad!"
>"You have fun Twilight and be safe." your father says before driving off.
>Finished waving, you and Spike head up the path to Applejack's home.
>It's already well into the afternoon. A lot later than you were planning.
>You slept through your alarm, and when you finally came downstairs you found both mom and dad waiting.
>After last night, they an explanation on what happened.
>Though you told them certain parts, you kept most of the story involving being shot at to yourself.
>"Wow, even though I haven't been here in a long time, it's like nothing changed!"
>Halfway up the steps you see a couple of figures on the hill where Anon trains Sunset and Rainbow Dash.
"Well, you might change your tune when you see what's up the hill."
>Making your way past the house, you notice activity near the large pendulum.
>When you approach, beeping comes from your magic-o-meter that becomes more frequent as you get closer.
>It seems Sunset is still trying to get a hang of the Quen sign.
>Though she looks like she's able to use the alternate form of Quen now, your friend is still covered in scuffs and bruises.
>And as an added level of safety, she's wearing a baseball helmet with a face shield.
>"Why is Sunset letting Applejack and that guy pelt her with beanbags?" Spike asks. "This isn't some weird game of hers is it?"
"No just training for her magic."
>A small blue beanbag collides with Sunset's barrier, causing it to flash at the impact point but otherwise leaving it whole.
>Sunset however looks like she's visibly straining.
>"Alright Sunset, that's bag number seven. So far you're beating your old record by two bags." Anon announces. "Ready for the next one?"
>Sunset nods.
> Anon throws the beanbag with as much energy as he can put into it.
>Unfortunately Sunset struggles to maintain concentration as her barrier vanishes. With nothing to stop it, the little bag striking her square in the gut knocking the wind out of her.
>She clutches her stomach in pain and collapses onto the ground as you run over.
"Sunset are you okay?"
>"Oooph... guh... y-y-yeah..." she says unconvincingly.
>Helping her sit up, Spike runs up between her lap and begins licking her face.
>"Augh! Spike! St-hah-stop!"
>"Howdy Twilight." Applejack says, "Spike."
>Applejack kneels by Spike and pets him on the head.
>"Hiya Applejack." Spike replies happily.
>Anon pauses mid-step, "Did that dog just talk?"
"Er... yes?"
>"I'll be right back." he says back towards the shed.
"Is something wrong?"
>Applejack and Sunset both shrug their shoulders.
>You all wait patiently for Anon to come back when he comes out of the shed with the cane sword in his hands halfway out of its scabbard.
>All four of you panic as Applejack, Sunset and you shield Spike.
>"Whoa there Anon! Spike ain't a monster!"
>"He's a friend Anon!"
>Spike begins growling.
>Anon remains unconvinced, "You all know talking animals aren't normal right?"
>Right. He's one to talk about normal.
"He gained the ability to talk from being exposed to Fluttershy's magic at the Friendship Games."
>"Alright but I'm keeping an eye on him."
>Wordlessly, he pushes the blade back into its sheathe.
>"Yeah that's right you put that sword away. Couldn't handle me in the first place." Spike boasts.
>Anon grips the sword again which gets Spike to shut up.
"Spike don't antagonize Anonymous."
>Spike nods his head.
 
>Once everything settles down, Anon let's Sunset have a few minutes to rest.
>Applejack called Winona over to play with Spike in the meantime so you could talk with your friends.
>"So Twilight, what're you doing here?" Applejack asks.
"I almost forgot! Anon, I talked to Shining yesterday."
>"And?"
"He says he's willing to talk."
>"About what?" he says grabbing a bag.
>Those succinct responses of his are going to drive you insane.
"About what you're doing in Canterlot."
>Anon bends over to pick up some of the discarded beanbags and handballs.
>"I already told him. It's none of his business."
"But he-"
>"I'm not doing anything illegal. If he doesn't want to accept my answer that's his issue."
>You frown.
"Please Anon? I've never seen him acting like this. It might put his mind at ease."
>"..."
>Applejack gets up and walks over to Anon.
>"Anon, I've only met Twi's brother maybe once or twice but he seems like good folk. Could you go talk to him? If not fer Twi, fer me?"
>She drapes her arms over his shoulders and kisses him on the cheek.
>"Fine." he says grimacing. "But Sunset is coming with me."
>Sunset stops drinking her water bottle and looks at Anon, "What why me?"
>"Because he's not just going to take my word for anything. I need someone to back me up on this."
>"O-okay..."
>You give a faint smile.
>Well that's one thing taken care of.
>But now that just leaves the other...
"Anon, er..."
>"What is it?"
"Um... can monsters change their appearance to look like humans?"
>The question seems to catch him off-guard.
>"A few. Why?"
"What types exactly?"
>"Higher Vampires, dopplers, skinwalkers to name the ones that mainly rely on it."
>Could Chrysalis be one of those?
>"There's a reason you're asking me this. Questions like that don't just come out of the blue even for someone like you."
"Someone like me?"
>"Smart, inquisitive, does a lot of research into a topic she's interested in. Ever a thirst for more knowledge that may or may not be a detriment to those around her."
>"Yeah, that sounds like Twilight." Sunset says with a giggle.
>You blush.
"It's just someone I met yesterday after Shining picked me up."
>Best not to mention the gunfight.
>At least for right now. You don't want to worry your friends, *especially* Sunset and Applejack.
"Her names Chrysalis."
>Anon's eyes narrow, "Really now."
"She was... in a fight of some sort and Shining decided to help her. The woman seems to be more resilient to pain than a normal human considering her wounds."
>The Witcher says nothing as he listens intently.
"And my magic-o-meter began beeping when it came into a close proximity to her."
>"I'm not surprised." he says nonchalantly.
"Y-you're not?"
>"No, I've met Chrysalis before. She's a succubus."
>What?!
"You... you're sure?"
>He nods his head, "Positive. She tried to force me to have sex with her just to feed off the lust energy."
>Applejack's expression turns dark, "Did she now?"
>"When I met her she was literally whoring herself out and down on her luck. Emaciated, looked like she hasn't fed in a long while, that sort of thing. What did she look like?"
>You begin thinking back.
"She wore a jacket similar to one Sunset wore before I met her. Studded belt, biker boots. Looked pretty healthy."
>"Must have found some sap to feed off then."
>Then is that why she's hanging onto...
"I think she's targeting my brother as her next victim!"
>Anon doesn't say anything other than setting his things down.
>"Are you one-hundred percent sure?"
>You nod your head frantically.
"Since you say you know her, maybe you can talk to her into not making a meal of my brother? He's engaged."
>A few moments go by before Anon sighs, "Fine. I'll talk to her if you can tell me where she is."
"Last I'm aware, the police station in downtown Canterlot. Though they might have released her by now."
>"You're not making things any easier. But if she's really clinging onto your brother they may not be too far apart."
>"Heck, they may be way too close..." Applejack adds.
>You shoot her a dirty glare, which makes the farmer back down slightly.
>"Guess it'll knock two birds with one stone then. Sunset, since you're coming with me, you'll get a lesson in tracking monsters as well."
>Sunset groans. "Alright..."
"I'm coming with you, this is my family we're dealing with."
>Anonymous nods his head, "I doubt I could dissuade you. But if trouble starts, you need to run and hide."
>"Gonna need to make some preparations, give me an hour or so and we'll set off."
>The Witcher goes down the hill and into the house when you remember something.
"Oh no, I forgot about Spike!"
>"Don't worry about Spike, Winona and I will take good care of him." Applejack says.
>"Thanks Applejack."
>Letting out a sigh of relief, you lay back and relax in the grass.
 
>All three of you sit on the bus heading towards the city.
>Sunset is chatting with Twilight as you keep your eyes closed and keep yourself occupied with your thoughts.
>Going over what you know, it seems Chrysalis the Succubus took your advice and went to Canterlot Heights and has gotten better per se.
>Though Twilight didn't specify what sort of trouble she and her brother saved her from.
>Did she anger someone less forgiving than you? Fooled around with someone she shouldn't have?
>You'll have to find her to answer that question.
>Just in case though, you've made three vials of hybrid oil in case things go south.
>Without a silver sword, you'll have to work a little bit smarter if a fight breaks out.
>Hopefully, it won't have to come to that because you had to substitute the classic dog tallow for some other type of fat.
>People seem to value canines more here than on the Continent that's for sure.
>The bus slows down in the city and the three of you disembark.
"Which way to the police station?"
>"If I remember right... this way." Twilight says leading the way.
>As you walk down the sidewalk, Sunset taps you on the shoulder.
>"Anon, did you really need to bring me along? Isn't Twilight good enough?"
"No I didn't, but I need help with something and I only trust you to keep it secret."
>"What is it?" she asks concerned.
"Help me..."
>"Yes?" she says as she leans in closer.
"Help me... plan a date with Applejack..."
>Sunset almost trips, recovering she comes close and whispers, "Are you serious?"
"Yeah... I've sort of been procrastinating on that and I think Applejack can tell."
>You turn to face her.
"Sunset, I need your help with this. I can't ask Rarity because she's a gossip monger, Fluttershy's too timid and Pinkie Pie can't keep a secret unless it involves some ritual that I have a strong belief is gypsy in origin."
>"What about Twilight? Why not her?"
"She'd want everything to be followed by the book to the letter. Everyone knows that that doesn't always work, especially not in situations that depend on another's personal preferences."
>"Well what do you have in mind?"
"That's the thing... I don't know..."
>Sunset begins laughing. Which doesn't help your confidence in this matter.
>Maybe this was a mistake.
"What the hell is so funny?"
>"Its just not often do I see you so flustered about something." she says wiping a tear from her eye.
"Will you help me or not?"
>"I'll help, but you have to do me a favor."
>She's bargaining with you now?
>...
>Sunset is smarter than she looks.
>You can't help but roll your eyes.
"What?"
>"Oh I'll think of it." she says with a cheeky grin.
 
>"We're here." Twilight says.
>"Huh, so this is where your brother works?"
>"Yes, though I wonder if he's still here?"
>As you walk up the steps, a voice calls out to Twilight.
>"Hi Twilight!" a woman you recognize greets her.
>It's the woman you saw talking to Twilight a couple of weeks ago.
>"Hi Dean Cadance."
>The woman chuckles, "Twilight I'm not your Dean anymore, you can call me Cadance."
>"Sorry, hehe old habits..." she says blushing. "Oh Sunset, Anon this is Dea... I mean Cadance."
>"We've met... sort of." Sunset says.
>"Nice to meet you, Anon is it?" she says holding out a hand.
>You just stand there, keeping up your charade.
>It takes a few seconds for her to realize what she's doing.
>"Oh my, I'm sorry I didn't realize."
"Most people don't."
>"Yes well, what are you three doing here? Visiting Shining I'm assuming?"
"Yes, what about you?"
>"Same, we have a date tonight but he never came to pick me up after work. I got worried." she says.
"Did you try calling?"
>"He's not picking up his phone I'm afraid."
>Maybe he has a reason for that...
>Twilight gives you a nervous side-glance just as her former Dean walks past her.
>Following the woman, the three of you stand back as she goes to the front desk.
>"Hello? We're friends and soon-to-be-family of Detective Armor, is he in by any chance?"
>The receptionist, Officer Blue Fuzz, lazily picks up a phone and pushes a button.
>"This is the front desk, is Detective Armor there? No, just visitors... thanks."
>She hangs up the phone, "He's on break right now but you're free to wait by his desk."
>Pointing the way, the four of you easily locate his desk in the somewhat cramped room and wait.
>A short while goes by as various officers, criminals, lawyers, and other people walk in and out of the headquarters.
>Eventually a half-hour passes as you and the others are starting to get impatient.
>"Where is he?" Twilight asks, "He usually comes back early from lunch, not late."
>"I don't know Twilight." Cadance says.
>Suddenly, your medallion begins tugging as you hear laughing coming through the double doors as Shining Armor walks in with a Chrysalis in tow.
>Wrapped around his arm no less.
>"Shining!" Cadance and Twilight both yell out.
>Detective Armor stops laughing as his eyes go wide at the site of Cadance and Twilight.
>Compared to last time you saw her, she's looking a lot healthier. Not to mention the clothes that are still  eye catching, but not as provocative as before.
>Chrysalis herself becomes nervous when she spots you and slowly eases away from Shining.
>"Um... Hi Cadey what are yo- Oh crap! Our date! I totally forgot!" Shining says slapping himself on the forehead.
>"Who is this woman?" Cadance demands, none too amused.
>"Oh uh... this is Chrysalis. She's a victim I helped out yesterday. Cadance, honey it's not what you think."
>Usually, saying "It's not what you think", implies the opposite. Or at least never works when it actually is true.
>Crossing her arms, Cadance glares at Chrysalis who sneers behind Shining Armor's back. Though when she catches you shaking your head, she quickly drops it.
>"Shining you had me worried sick!" Cadance says, "You didn't call or anything and now I see you wrapped arms together with a woman who you've only just met?"
>Putting on a smile, Cadance turns around and bends over to Twilight, "Would you mind if I had a private word with your brother?"
>Oh... that tone she's using and that phrasing. Hell hath no fury...
>"Um... no not at all."
>She pulls aside another officer and scowls, "Interrogation room. Which way?"
>The officer, quickly piecing together the situation, points towards the nearest hall.
>"Thank you." Cadance says with a cheerful smile.
>Marching off towards Interrogation, she drags Shining by the hand as everyone watches in both horror and amusement.
>Once things settle down, you cross your arms as Chrysalis walks over to you.
>"Anonymous, it's great to see you again!" she says giving you a hug.
"I can see you're doing better."
>"Oh yeah, much. I went over to Crystal Heights like you said, found a sap at Crystal Prep looking for an "older date" to impress his buddies and the rest is history!"
"What happened to him?"
>"Moved onto his friends, and when they all swore vows of chastity I sort of had to move on. Eventually met someone a bit more influential and has a bit more... stamina."
"And yet you seem to be hitting it off with Detective Armor. He not enough?"
>"Oh that? I'm a... you know." she says whispering, "It's in my nature."
"They know Chrysalis."
>She looks between you and your friends surprised.
>"So you know Shiny's sister?"
>You nod your head.
>"Well... small world."
"Twilight wants you to stay away from her brother."
>Chrysalis becomes indignant, "What? Why?"
"Because he's her brother. And he's engaged."
>The succubus scowls, "And if I don't?"
>"Then I'll... I'll..."
>Really Twilight?
"She's brought me to make sure you do."
>Chrysalis's angry glare moves over to you.
>"Do you have any idea how hard it is to find good stock like Detective Armor?"
"No, not really. And I don't care, consider this as a trade for sparing your life."
>Her glare doesn't let up but she relents, "Fine."
>Sitting in Shining's desk chair she crosses her legs and pouts.
>"So... um Chrysalis?" Twilight asks.
>"What kid?" she replies with hostility.
>"What were you running from yesterday?"
>She waves her question off dismissively, "Oh that... turns out Canterlot has a lot of places you shouldn't go poking your head into."
"What's that supposed to imply? What exactly did you "poke" into?"
>She shrugs, "Was a little pre-occupied with not getting shot at."
>Shot at?
>"Twilight did you and your brother get caught up in that?"
>"Er... yeah, that's how we met."
>Before she can elaborate, Cadance comes stomping out of the hall, her cheeks all puffy, and grabs Twilight by the arm, "Come on Twilight, we're going to go get ice cream and your friends can come along too. Detective Armor is buying."
>"Cadance..." Shining says trying to chase after her.
>Sunset glances at you, and you can only shrug.
>Chrysalis gives Cadance a dirty look of hatred and loathing but refrains from acting on it.
>You can see by the way her fists shake that she's just only a few seconds away from trying to maul the woman.
>But when she catches you staring, the succubus calms down.
"Remember what I said Chrysalis."
>"Yeah yeah..." she replies with a huff.
>And with that, you and Sunset follow after Cadance and Twilight.
 
>"What was that about?" asks Chrysalis.
>"I'm in the doghouse now..." Shining replies.
>"Well... I think I know a way to fix that." the succubus says with a toothy grin.
>"What was that?"
>Her eyes flash momentarily before remembering your warning.
>"Oh nothing you need to worry your little head." she says cupping Shining's cheek.
 
-----
 
>"Anon why so grim? Your ice cream is melting." Sunset asks taking a lick of her own cone.
"Just something about Chrysalis that has me on edge."
>"She said she would leave Twilight's brother alone didn't she?"
>You watch as a glob of vanilla slides down the side of your hand and onto the table.
>Grabbing a napkin, you wipe it and your hand up before they become sticky.
"That's the thing. Something in my gut tells me that it shouldn't have been that easy."
>Looking over at the cash register, both Cadance and Twilight look like they're both having a fun time just chatting with one another.
>To be honest, you haven't seen Twilight that happy before.
>That Cadance woman must mean a lot to her.
>"Well what makes you so sure?"
"This succubus was willing enough to attack and rape me in order to get what she wanted. I don't think she's the type to just let something go because I asked."
>"What do you plan on doing then?"
>You recall how visibly angry Chrysalis became when Cadance came out of the Police Department's Interrogation room. The way she almost lost her cool.
"I'm going to have to keep an eye on Miss Cadance tonight."
>"Do you want company?"
"It wouldn't hurt. Stakeouts usually get incredibly boring though."
>"We should ask Twilight where Cadance lives, both her and I can set up someplace nearby while you tail her."
>The thought of potential risk occurs to you. If Chrysalis does try something it's most likely something you'd rather not have Sunset or Twilight present for.
>Succubus are cunning creatures after all.
"Alright, but if fighting happens you two need to stay back and keep hidden. I don't want either of you getting hurt."
>Nodding her head in agreement, Twilight walks up to you.
>"So you guys ready? Er... why the serious faces?" she asks.
 
>"Are you kidding me?! You want to have a stakeout on my old Dean?"
"Twilight I don't usually get feelings like this in my gut often. And when I do, I find it best if I listen."
>"You know where the Dean lives right?" Sunset asks placing a hand on Twilight's shoulder.
>"Yes... but are you sure she's going to be in danger?"
"Positive."
>"O-okay... I have some surveillance gear I have back at my house... I guess I could get it and meet you at Cadance's apartment."
>You're not even going to bother asking why Twilight has surveillance equipment.
"You and Sunset go do that, I'll follow the Dean."
>"Anon, here take this." Sunset says handing you her phone. "I know you don't have one but you can borrow it in the meantime. Here's the swipe key to open it."
>Sunset turns on the phone with a button on the side and uses her finger to draw a pattern on nine circles.
>Memorizing the pattern yourself, you take the phone and put it into your pocket.
>Twilight gives you Dean Cadance's address on a napkin as Cadance gets her ice cream.
>Pulling out her own phone, Twilight opens the app with a map of the area and plugs in the address she wrote down.
>The Dean lives relatively close by, enough that you could walk to her place.
>"Are you all ready to go?" she asks.
>"Uh, yes. We are Cadance." Twilight answers.
>"Is something wrong?"
>"No just... Twilight and I forgot something at her house."
>"Oh, I see. Well I'll call a cab for you then."
>Turning and pulling out her phone the Dean pulls up her contact list.
>"If anything goes wrong, just call Twilight's number and we'll try to get there as fast as we can."
>Yes, because two teenagers will be able to do so much against a raging succubus.
>But its the thought that counts you figure.
 
>Both Twilight and Sunset get into the taxi cab that Dean Cadance called for.
>You give a small wave goodbye as Cadance hands Twilight Shining Armor's credit card.
>"Give that back to your brother okay? Tell him he's not in the doghouse anymore." she says with a smile.
>"Okay Cadance." Twilight replies before shutting the door.
>As the taxi pulls out into traffic, Cadance looks at you with a curious glance.
>"Do you need a taxi too?"
>You shake your head. 
"Figured it might be the gentlmanly thing to do and escort you home."
>"That's sweet of you. Luckily I don't live too far away just a short walk but considering your... handicap I think it would be best if I called you a cab home as well."
>Rolling your eyes you glance around for any onlookers.
>None? Good.
>You make the Axii sign and watch as it takes hold on the woman.
"Escorting you isn't too much of an issue, its getting late after all."
>"Er... yes... it is getting late I guess it couldn't hurt." she says in a slight trance.
>Leading the way, you follow behind Cadance and keep an eye out for any trouble.
>A short walk later and already you're at the apartment complex where she lives.
>Secured front gate with a guard, security cameras... it all seems very secure.
>As you both walk by the guard, he seems surprised to see Cadance.
>Exiting the booth, he cuts off your path to the door.
>"Um evening Miss Cadance?"
>"Is something a matter?"
>"Er... you don't happen to have a twin do you?" he says taking his cap off and scratching his head.
>"No... why?"
>"Cause you just came in bout twenty minutes ago and asked for help getting in your room. Said you lost your keys."
>...
>Yeah, that's not good.
>"But that's impossible, I've been out all day."
>"Well, something's fishy that's for sure." he says walking back to his seat.
>Opening the front door for you, both you and Cadance walk into the lobby and head into the elevator.
>The man gives you a cold glare as you walk past him. Something doesn't feel right but you don't know what.
>Best to keep on guard.
>Entering the lift, Cadance presses the button for the third floor.
>It looks like your gut instinct was right, but what is Chrysalis planning to do?
>Looking over to the woman next to you, she has a worried and unsure expression on her face.
>With a ding, the elevator stops and opens, as Cadance quickly walks out and to her apartment door.
>Before she inserts her key into the lock, you grab her hand and shake your head.
>Your medallion doesn't seem to be reacting to anything inside.
"Stand over there."
>"But..."
"Shhh. Just do it."
>Walking over behind a doorway to an adjacent one, you knock on the door.
>A few moments go by before someone inside opens the door... someone who shouldn't be.
>"Can I help you?" Dean Cadance answers from other side of the door.
"Who the hell are you?"
>The fake Cadance's eyes go wide as she realizes you're on to her.
>"Aw fuck!"
>The doppelganger tries to slam the door in your face, but you stick your cane in the door frame.
>With one swift kick, you send the door inward sending the fake Cadance onto the floor.
>Taking out your blade, you hold the point to the individual's neck.
"I'll ask again, who the hell are you?"
>"Boss didn't mention no stinkin' bodyguard!" fake Cadance curses out.
>Her features shift until they begin morphing into a likeness of yourself with a cane sword in hand.
"A Doppler. Interesting. One of the few creatures to not trigger my medallion."
>The Doppler sneers, "Smarter than you look kid, but smarts ain't everything!"
>Lunging at you, you avoid a slash and back out the door.
>The fake you continues to attack you in the hall, making wide swings that you easily avoid and parry.
>He may look like you, but he sure as hell doesn't fight like you.
>Suddenly you both hear Cadance gasp behind you.
>"Ah good, you're actually here." the Doppler says. "Guess I can keep my head after all!"
>Running past you he pulls his sword back to try and kill her.
>Thinking fast, you pull out a throwing knife from inside your jacket and nail the doppler in the leg sending him to the floor. The sword he held clattering to the floor.
>"AUGH YOU FUCKHEAD!" the creature yells out.
>Searching its own jacket, it pulls out an identical throwing knife and tries to toss it at you.
>Unfortunatly for him you easily deflect it and send it harmlessly into the wall behind him, just narrowly missing his head.
>"What the hell are you?!"
"A Witcher. And right now? A very pissed off one."
>Its eyes widen, "No one said anything bout a Witcher. They're supposed to be long gone!"
"Well today's full of surprises isn't it?"
>Towering over... yourself, you again point the tip of your sword at its neck.
"Who the hell sent you?"
>"I ain't no squealer."
"You're not going to be alive if you keep that up."
>Emphasizing your point, you dig the tip of the sword into his flesh.
>Cadance watches in horror and confusion as you interrogate "yourself".
>The other you is sweating profusley, enought that you can't help but find it a bit interesting to see yourself scared shitless like this.
>"Bah... Witchers, sword fights, I ain't getting p-paid enough for this. My b-b-boss sent me..."
"And that is...?"
>"Name's Chrysalis... said she wanted this lady "out of the way"..."
>"That lady that Shining Armor was with?" Cadance asks.
>"Yeah... boss said you were a becoming a thorn in her side..."
>Chrysalis has goons now? Dopplers at that?
>Strange. Not too long ago she was just prostituting herself off to whoever she could.
"Where the hell did Chrysalis get enough pull to put out a hit?"
>"She's h-h-hooked up with a bigger head honcho..."
>You notice the doppler slowly trying to reach for something behind him.
>Instead, with your free hand you grab the knife imbedded in the wall and stab him in the same arm causing him to drop a concealed pistol.
>"GAH! FUCK!"
"Who is it?"
>"I-I can't tell you or he'll kill me!"
"Trust me, he's not your problem right now. I am."
>Uncertainty crosses your Doppler's face as he has an internal debate on what to do.
>Ultimately it relents, "My boss's name is-"
>*BANG*
>Blood and gore splatters all over the wall and you as the Doppler's head explodes.
>Turning to your right, the security guard from earlier points a smoking revolver at you.
>Reflexively you toss the throwing knife in your hand, but with everything going on, it only makes a shallow cut across his arm and causes the gunman to pull the trigger.
>You move away from the body to avoid getting shot yourself only to realize the next shot isn't intended for you.
>Everything next processes almost in slow motion as the bullet from the revolver flies through the air and hits Cadance in the side.
>She cries out in pain and falls to the floor in a newly forming pool of her own blood.
>Clutching the wound, he morphs his appearance to look like someone else and sneers before running off down the stair well.
>Another fucking Doppler?
>You could give chase, but there wouldn't be anyone to help Cadance and she looks like she's bleeding out pretty fast...
>The one time you wish Twilight was here!
>Shit shit SHIT!
 
-----
 
>Kneeling by Cadance, you begin removing the clothing covering her wound.
>Shit...
>Need something to stop the blood.
>Ripping the hem of your shirt, you begin folding the cloth and proceed to put pressure to stop the bleeding.
>As you contemplate your next move, the sound of a door creaking alerts you to another presence.
>With one hand you grab your cane and prepare for the possibility of another attacker.
>A couple peek out of their room and see you over the prone woman.
>Their eyes go wide as they see you covered in blood looking at them.
"Don't just stand there like idiots call th-"
>They slam the door before you can finish, and you can hear the tumbler lock.
>Great...
>Wait. Sunset's phone!
>Digging through your pocket, you pull out the cellphone and turn on the device.
>Nine circles appear on the screen and you slide your thumb over the surface in the pattern Sunset showed you.
>Unlocking the phone, you hit the button that looks like a green phone and a number pad shows up.
>Dialling 9-1-1 you continue to put pressure on the gunshot wound and wait for the someone to pick up.
>*Click*
>"9-1-1, what is your emergency?"
"I'm at the Crystal Heights Apartment complex..."
>You give the dispatcher as much information as you possibly can until they tell you an ambulance is on the way.
>Cadance groans in pain as you do your best to keep her from bleeding out as the minutes pass.
"Cadance, I need you to stay awake."
>"I-it... hurts..."
"Don't worry help is on the way."
>Soon enough you hear a ding from the elevators.
>Grabbing your sword again, two emergency medical technicians rush through the hall and spot you and Cadance.
>They freeze at the sight of a bloody headless corpse slumped next to the wall, but quickly refocus as one sets their bag down next to Cadance.
>One of the EMT's orders the other to fetch the stretcher from the truck as he removes the makeshift stopper you were using.
"..."
>"How long has she been like this?"
"Around eight minutes. She's lost a lot of blood even with my attempts to staunch it."
>"Damn, alright. We gotta work fast then."
>Focusing his attention back towards Cadance he begins doing what he can until his partner returns with a medical stretcher.
>You impatiently follow as the men load the injured woman up and into the elevator.
>As you four head down, you take note of the blood blending into the wood panel on the wall.
>The elevator doors open and the men quickly wheel the Dean out of the lobby and towards the ambulance parked out front.
>While the medtechs load Cadance into the back you notice a police cruiser nearby with two officers standing by the security booth.
>One is kneeling by the booth door while the other is using her radio with a hand on the gun at her hip.
>The ambulance doors slam shut as the sirens began blaring; the truck drives off as one of the officer's notices you standing there.
>"Hey! You."
>Fuck.
>The officer walks cautiously towards you prepared to draw her gun at a moment's notice.
>"Mind explaining why you're covered in blood?"
"Guy shot my... friend's teacher and I was trying to stop the bleeding until help came."
>The officer, Top judging from the nametag, eases a little.
>"You wouldn't happen to have a description of the shooter kid?"
"Not really."
>Using your cane, you tap your glasses to emphasize your point.
>"Crap, sorry kid. Didn't mean to offend."
>Considering the shooter is a Doppler, any description you give is probably a moot one.
>"We're gonna need to ask you a couple more questions, another cruiser will be here soon so just hold tight sir."
>As Officer Top walks back to her partner, you head in the opposite direction and head back to the elevator.
>Inspecting the blood stain on the wall, you use your senses to see if you can at least detect where the assailant went.
>Thankfully, despite the commotion a faint trail of blood drops leads outside and towards the front gate.
>Being extra careful in not drawing attention from the police, you follow the blood trail down the sidewalk and into a busy intersection of pedestrians and cars.
>The sun is already making its way down and you're losing light quickly.
>After a few blocks, the blood begins to appear at less frequent intervals until they stop completely in front of a construction yard.
>Entering the yard, you look for any other possible clues to finding your target only to come up empty.
>There are a few boot prints in the gravel, but they could have been left here by the normal crews operating here.
>But it really matters little since a Doppler can change their clothes as well.
>Dammit.
>Letting out a frustrated sigh, you give the site a once over just to be sure before heading back to the apartment complex.
 
>As you sit on the curb outside the front lobby, a taxi pulls up.
>Both Sunset and Twilight Sparkle exit the vehicle and rush over to you.
>"Anon! What happened?" Sunset asks.
>"Where's Cadance?!" Twilight demands grabbing your blood soaked jacket.
"At the hospital. She got... hurt."
>Twilight let's go and begins to hyperventilate.
>"Cadance... got shot? She's not... she's not de-"
>You shake your head.
"I don't know, her pulse was weak when the EMTs loaded her into the ambulance and took her to the nearest hospital."
>"Did you at least get who hurt her?" she asks.
>Again, you shake your head.
"No, I got him in the arm but he got away."
>Suddenly Twilight growls, "Why not Anon! You're supposed to be a Witcher dammit!"
>"Twilight, it's not like Anon could hav-"
>"No! I refuse to believe some lowlife got the drop on you! You have heightened senses and a medallion that can detect magic!"
>The girl starts tearing up as she breaks down, collapsing onto her knees.
"I'm sorry Twilight. The assassins were Dopplers."
>"Dopplers?"
"Magical beings that can shapeshift to look like virtually any person. The transformations are so genuine that they won't even trigger my wolf medallion. They're supposed to be extremely rare and peaceful by nature but Chrysalis somehow managed to hook in two to commit murder for her."
>Twilight tenses up at the succubus's name.
>"Chrysalis did this?"
"One of the Doppler's admitted as much before his partner blew his head off."
>"..."
>"Twilight... what are you..."
>"Chrysalis needs to die." Twilight says coldly.
>As of right now, this is probably the first time you and Twilight wholeheartedly agree on something.
>While you find the girl's feelings understandable, the words visibly stun Sunset into silence.
>"Hey Twilight what are you doing here?" Officer Top asks, walking up to you three.
>"O-officer Top. The woman who was shot, she's my friend and Shining's fiance!"
>The Officer's eyes widen, "That was Cadance?!"
>Twilight nods, "I think that woman my brother brought in yesterday put out a hit on her!"
>"Kid that's a big accusation. You sure?"
>"I... I don't have any proof but..."
>The policewoman scratches the back of her head, "I know the situation is a little crazy right now Twilight, but I think you should go home."
>"Copper Top, you have to trust me. Please."
>The woman looks between you and Twilight before she relents, "Alright, I'll look into it. You got a ride home?"
>"We have a Taxi." Sunset answers, looking to where the taxi they got out of was.
>In the short time you were talking, it seems to have left.
"..."
>"Had a taxi..." Sunset corrects herself.
>"Do you know this guy?" Officer top says pointing to you.
>"Yes, he's our friend."
>"Figured, well he has to come down to the station to answer some questions. If you two don't mind coming with I can arrange a ride home at the station."
>Both Sunset and Twilight nod their heads as two more police cruisers and another ambulance pulls up to the building.
>As your student tries to calm down her friend, you feel uneasy.
>Even with Twilight's accusation, the police aren't going to be able to do a damn thing.
>There's virtually no connection between Chrysalis and Cadance that would provide a solid motive for them to even bother investigating her despite what Officer Top has said.
>Not to mention, with what you saw at the police station earlier with Shining, she probably already has him under her thrall.
>With him, she can make whatever alibi she wants and he'll just stick to that.
>And even if the police did try to make their move on her, the only thing that would result from that is more blood being spilled.
>No, you need to take care of this yourself.
>Looking at Twilight crying; you frown.
>This is partly your fault. You spared Chrysalis in the first place.
>You attributed that to her being desperate to survive but maybe...
>...
>Whatever the case was then, it's irrelevant now. Chrysalis has shown herself to be a monster plain and simple.
>And Witchers kill monsters don't they?