open Nothing personal, it's just business...

[Unicorncob 5,694]

@@nx9100

 

The burglar landed safely on the ground beneath the fire escape, grabbing his briefcase from behind the trash cans. Once emerging, he spotted Ravage bounding downward between the two buildings.

 

Sweet Celestia above, he muttered in amazement in his head, This pony is persistent. ...good, he might actually challenge me.

 

He sprinted further down the alley, ducking behind a small stack of cardboard boxes. Next to him was a chainlink fence going to another alley. If he could get over it in time...

[nx9100 1,013]

After getting his bearings, Ravage heard a noise down the alley.  Eyes searching, but didn't see anypony around.  He's here.... somewhere, he thought, and stared slowly, and quietly, walking down the dirty alley, searching for any sign of his prey.  Why didn't you just fly away?  Are your wings damaged or week?  Coming down here puts you at a major disadvantage...

[Unicorncob 5,694]

@@nx9100

 

The pegasus swore in his head; he could hear the slightest hoofsteps coming his way. He could have just flown away and be done with this. But then, somepony's bound to notice the cloaked masked pegasus flying around, point out police to his lavish hotel room and arrest the rich stallion who happens to have the thief's outfit in said room.

 

But then, all couldn't be lost. He took a glance up at the fence; it wasn't that high up, but was topped with barbed wiring.

Maybe if he was careful and fast enough...

 

Buck it.

 

He took a chance and leapt up, using his wings to help him arch over the barbed wire. He came in a hair's length of scratching himself against the thorns, but made it over.

Mostly.

 

His decline was jerky but he landed mostly unscathed, scowling as he looked behind him to find his cloaktail had gotten torn by the wire.

Brilliant. I had this specially made.

 

However, he was on the other side, and as tough as this big stallion was, even he couldn't crawl over barbed wire.

 

...could he?

[nx9100 1,013]

Having just witnessed his quarry's athletic prowess over the fence (which was installed at his own insistence), Ravage realized he had a choice to make.  Beyond the fence (which marked the edge of the property they owned), the alley led back to the open street in front of their tower.  While the fence would offer no challenge to himself, by the time he could jump it, his target would most likely make it to the street, and as a rule, he avoided streets during daylight hours.  But then, running out into the street in that outfit and mask wouldn't benefit him any more then myself, he thought, and decided to chance it.  If he could get a high enough jump, and angled it right...

 

Leaning back and bending his hind legs, Ravage launched himself forward, sprinting towards the fence to get as much momentum as possible.  At the last second, he leaped, legs outstretched, aiming for the top of the fence.  While he did manage to sail over the barbed wire, his belly scraped against the thorns along the top, cutting into his suit.  As he came down, he tucked in his body to roll once along the ground to absorb the energy of impact, coming to a stop on his feet.  His face was just as stone-empty as before, and he appeared unscathed, save for a few drops of red falling from his belly....

 

"I suggest we end this," he said, "as you have nowhere else to go.  Assuming you don't wish to run about the city streets dressed as you are..."  It took all his concentration to keep the strain from the wounds out of his voice...

[Unicorncob 5,694]

@@nx9100

 

The thief tutted with frustration; he had a point. He couldn't exactly just sprint out into the street in view of everypony.

"Your persistence is admirable," he admitted, glancing out toward the street, "It wouldn't do either of us much good taking this out into the public eye."

 

He looked back at Ravage, spotting the drops of red dripping from his suit.

"And I agree, we should end this right here and now," he nodded, though he did not move himself into a fighting position; instead, he stood firm and continued, "I suggest you see to your wounds. It wouldn't feel right if I caused you any serious damage.

 

"Let me walk away now, and we can both forget this happened," he said firmly, in attempt to strike a deal with the wounded hunter.

Though, a thought came to his head; if he played this carefully, perhaps he could arrange a little partnership. It might get him close to Ennex...

[nx9100 1,013]

Ravage stood there, staring at the intruder, thinking hard.  While he had full confidence that he could take him down, he was starting to doubt the reasons too.  His attempt at thievery has been thwarted, and know he knows what awaits him if he returns.  The lines of fire running along his underside also screamed for attention, though he was capable of ignoring it.  Then, a thought from before returned to his mind.  This pony is highly skilled, and obviously gains a thrill engaging in this kind of activity.  Perhaps he would be interested in trading for his freedom?  Keeping the silence for a few extra minutes, he finally spoke.

 

 "While I cannot just allow you to 'walk away' from this, there is another option.  In exchange for my allowing you to leave unscathed, there is a task I would require you to complete.  One that would fit with you level of skills...."

[Unicorncob 5,694]

@@nx9100

 

The thief blinked behind his mask, taking in the stallion's words. Was he offering him a job? Now that would be interesting; the independent burglar working with the big criminal organisation. That'd be something for his little legend. He grinned at the thought.

 

He turned his head to the side, keeping his eyes on Ravage. "I'm listening."

[nx9100 1,013]

"Across town, there is an apartment building," Ravage began.  "I can provide the exact address.  It is a two bedroom apartment, mostly ordinary, except for a one of the rooms.  I myself have not been able to access this room, for there is some sort of Zebra enchantment which prevents others from entering.  Not the door, nor the windows can be forced.  Nor," he frowned slightly, "can one cut into it from the floor above, and I assume as much for cutting inside from below."  His eyes narrowed.  "What I require, is a complete description of what is in that room, what the owner is doing, and what, if anything, can be used against my master..."

[Unicorncob 5,694]

@@nx9100

 

The pegasus nodded, taking in every detail of the assignment. Sneak into an apartment, no busting the door or windows, and no breaking in through the roof or floor. Plus, the Zebra enchantments might make it even more difficult.

 

A grin escaped his face; that did sound like a challenge!

 

"So, I sneak into this apartment, take note of what's going on inside, and get back to you?" He summarised, putting a hoof to his chin. It wasn't exactly a partnership, but it may just be a start. "Yeah, that shouldn't be a problem."

[nx9100 1,013]

Ravage nodded, not allowing any emotion to show on his face.  There are only two ways this will end, both of them in my favor.  One, he gets caught, and Sakuya disposes of him for me.  Two, he succeeds, and I finally find out what that deceptive mare is up to.  Ravage never trusted Sakuya, but tolerated her as Ennex insisted on her being a large part of his organization.  She was the only member who still managed to keep secrets from him, (other then Ennex himself).  Secrets, which could possible endanger his master.  

"Return to this spot in one hour," Ravage said, "and you will be provided with the information that you will require.  Once you have completed the assignment, I will meet you here as well."  He gave the other a stern look.  "There is only one other requirement.  Your presence must NOT be discovered.  If the apartment dweller becomes aware that her sanctum has been violated, any information you gain will become void."  He paused.  "Do this, and I will forgive your attempted intrusion."

[Unicorncob 5,694]

@@nx9100

 

The pegasus nearly scoffed upon being told not to let his presence known. It's like this guy didn't even know who he was! Getting in and out with nopony having any idea until he was long gone? That was his modus operandi.

 

Nonetheless, he nodded in agreement. "Fair enough, give me the directions and you'll have your information within the hour."

[Gloomfury 243]

@@nx9100,@, @

 

Malachi waved at the new pony with a nice smile. "Hey, how ya doin'." He let out some smoke from his nose as he went back watching  the workers. He use to work small guarding jobs when he was starting out. He would also make sure to be ready whenever he saw a worker get hurt. He would run to them as fast as he could to get them to the hospital, and maybe get them to fill so graces thet they wouldn't think of suing them. A small smirk came to his face, remembering a few times that happen.

[P-Jay 1,987]

"hello!" caliber said with a huge grin, "how are you?whats you're name? mines caliber as you heard." 

 

'meh. i dont like him. just some guy ennex knows. but! i have to be optimistic, and professional. even if i don't like it.' caliber thought 'but once again, i just might get some more bits...'

Edited February 24, 2015 by Peytonjay

[Gatekeeper Giggle 2,902]

Divided Yield warmly returned the greetings of all the other ponies. 

 

"It's nice to meet all of you! As you well know, I'm here to discuss business with Mr. Ennex. Unfortunately, I would rather we discuss such matters in private, so is it okay if I tag along with you guys until you get back to your headquarters?"

[nx9100 1,013]

@, @, @@Gloomfury,  

 

"Please join us," Ennex replied, gesturing to Divided Yield.  "I apologize for not waiting for you at my office.  Fearing that Sakuya was going to miss her job this morning-" he tossed a glance at Malachi "- I thought I should come down and take care of things myself."   He waved a hoof around the site.  "We were just taking a tour of my newest project.  A new casino-hotel, right here in the heart of the city.  From all appearances, I would say that the work is proceeding smoothly."  

 

-----------------------------

 

@@Unicorncob, 

 

Ravage nodded at the pegasus.  "Very well.  Wait here."  With a final look, he walked past the other, acting like the stinging along his stomach wasn't bothering him.  Heading out of the alley, he stepped onto the sidewalk, turned, and approached the front doors to the tower.  The guards wisely didn't make eye contact, as he stepped inside...

Edited February 24, 2015 by nx9100

[Unicorncob 5,694]

@@nx9100

 

The pegasus watched as Ravage took his leave, and walked over to lean against the wall, to appear less conspicuous. Or visible.

 

Alone with his thoughts, he took the time to recollect on his recent events. This stallion was obviously a trained professional, hired by this Ennex, and not only had he managed to escape him (somewhat), he was offered a job. A chance to possible get closer to this apparent crime lord.

 

While he was sharp, he wasn't razor-sharp. He lifted the strange artefact from his saddlebag, that he'd managed to keep pocketed without him noticing. He inspected it in closer detail, or as much as he could in the dim light of the alleyway. He quickly pocketed it, in case Ravage returned quick.

 

An interesting proposition; an independent thief working with an organisation. Perhaps if all goes well, he may very well trust his true identity to these ponies.

 

But for now, he was just Ghost.

[nx9100 1,013]

@@Unicorncob,

 

After about 15 minutes, a young, nervous stallion came trotting past, carrying an envelope between his teeth.  He stopped, turned around, and poked his head down the alley.  After spotting the masked Pegasus, he gulped, and slowly approached.  His legs shaking nervously, he bent down to place the envelope, marked with the word ADDRESS, on the ground.  Then, he backed up, turned around, and ran out of the alley as fast as his legs could take him....

[Unicorncob 5,694]

@@nx9100

 

Ghost sharply exhaled through his nose at the stallion as he scampered around the corner. "Hm, am I really that imposing?"

 

He grabbed the envelope in his hoof and flipped the back open, slipping out the paper inside and reading it slowly. He nodded as he went, the information processing in his head.

 

"Hopefully this won't be too far away," he muttered, slipping the note back into its envelope, which went into his saddlebag. He ducked behind another trash can with his briefcase and flipped it open, quickly getting himself changed.

 

The mask and hood came off, and the black shirt and cutie mark returned, thanks to a small bottle of hoof-soap.

Ghost was once again gone, and Dusk Waltz appeared from behind the cans, briefcase under-wing and saddlebags propped up.

 

"Now then," he muttered, walking along the street to find a guide, "to find this street..."

[nx9100 1,013]

@@Unicorncob,  @,@@Gloomfury, @,

 

 

Ennex led the group on a short tour of the work site, making various comments and he pointed out the various features of the soon-to-be-built casino.  The workers were making excellent progress, cleaning up the building and installing walls, wiring, fixtures, etc.  They passed through the lobby of the attached tower, which was going to become a new hotel.  Progress here was a bit slower, being a larger building and need to make sure all the floors were undamaged and stable.  After a few hours, The group boarded a larger-than-normal carriage, which brought them back to Ennex's Tower.

 

As they climbed out of the carriage, standing directly in front of the main doors waiting for them was Sakuya.  Her eyes lit of fire when she saw Ennex emerge from the carriage.  When he noticed her, a slight frown crossed his face.  "Excuse me just a moment," he said to the others, and stepped over to her.  "I see you have return-"

 

The slap of hoof on face could be heard all across the area.  The two guards at the door tensed, not sure if they should grab her or not.  Sakuya just stood there, still holding her hoof up, breathing slowly.  For his part, Ennex turned his head back to her, ignoring the large bruise on the left of his face.  "So," he replied, his voice even, "I take it the delivery went well?"

 

She didn't answer, just stormed past him and around the carriage, leaning against it for support, unsure of what to do next.

 

For his part, Ennex simple turned back to his companions, acting like the little scene never took place.  Except for the bruise on his cheek, of course.  "Well, now that we have returned, Divided, would you care to join me in my office?"  He looked at Malachi and Caliber.  "If you two would excuse us..."

[Unicorncob 5,694]

@@nx9100

 

It took a while of exploring, but Dusk Waltz finally located the apartment building. It was situated in a nice quiet neighbourhood, where a city pony like himself may look just a tiny bit out of place.

He glanced down the street and took mental note of the rather intimidating looking pony at the doors. A door guard for a place like this? Interesting.

 

A fire escape stretched up to the roof of the building. Dusk glanced up the wall and spotted a floor with a single window. A single room on one whole floor? Interesting.

He took out the sheet of paper he received from the skittish messenger earlier. No floor number. Though perhaps he didn't need one; that single window looked rather suspicious.

 

Dusk slunk into the alley by the apartments, making sure not to alert the doorpony. Ducking behind a stack of empty boxes, he flipped open his briefcase and quickly changed into his cloak, mask and socks, while carefully applying the cutie mark removal paint.

 

The briefcase was carefully tucked behind the boxes, and Ghost was ready to haunt this little apartment.

He leapt onto the fire escape and glided up the stairwell, making sure to be scarce going by each window.

 

Finally, he reached the single windowed floor and peered inside. No lights on, nopony must be home.

Just how I like it, nice and dark.

 

He smirked to himself and attempted to carefully open the window. Subtlety, as always, was his watchword; leave no evidence that he was ever here.

[P-Jay 1,987]

caliber looked at ennex, then malachi, then ennex again.then walked over to sakuya "heeeeyyy...the constructions going well..." caliber said to sakuya, while keeping a safe distance, "the casinos going to be finished in a couple of days, and the hotels being built sometime next week." 

 

((sorry for the little control here)) sakuya looked at him angrily

 

 'nope, nope, nope, nope, nope' caliber thought and backtracked to malachi "you comfort her. i really forgot how to. and i nether want to get slapped nor want to hear what happened."

[Gatekeeper Giggle 2,902]

@@nx9100, 

 

Dividend Yield followed Ennex into his office. He then reached into briefcase, and got several papers out which were covered in charts and graphs, and gave these to Ennex. "I suppose we should get right to it, shouldn't we? Mr. Ennex, how would you like to completely control this city? I assure you, it's easier then you might think."

 

<<>>

@, 

 

Rhythmic Rhapsodist walked towards Cailber, smiling. "Hello! Do you know what all that was about? I've never seen a crime boss just ignore being hit like that" 

[P-Jay 1,987]

"me neither! i mean, is it even legal?" caliber said, "hey, wait a minute, do i know you?"

 

*sorry, again for the small control here*

 

the new pony shook his head  "well, im caliber, master swordsman, and awesome traveler." caliber said proudly, "and who might i ask, are you?"

 

'heh, insanity!' caliber thought, 'i might just have some fun!'

[Gatekeeper Giggle 2,902]

@,

 

"Who, me? I'm no one of any importance. I just act as Dividend Yield's body guard. I go by the name Rhythmic Rhapsodist. And what I meant was, I've never seen a crime boss just ignore being hit like that. Usually when you hit a crime boss, you end up dead."

 

After a short pause, Rhythmic Rhapsodist kept speaking.

 

"So you're a traveler? That's pretty interesting! What places have you been to?"

[P-Jay 1,987]

"alright!!!" caliber said, "ok, um ive been to cloudsdale, ponyville, fillydelphia, canterlot, the crystal empire, appleloosa, tenochtitlan basin, tartarus, hoofington, las pegasus, i mean, i could go on. but you get the idea. ive been almost everywhere. and met almost everyone. and, this is just between you and me," caliber said, getting close to him, "ive even met discord, master of chaos. he gave me this book, see?" caliber held up the book. "i cant read it, but something tells me you'd want a look at it oh, and im calling you double r from now on, ok?"