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A few more days after the first dinner, Terran and Saanvi planned to meet up again for another date. Even though Rosie was one hundred percent sure she didn’t want to mingle with neither him or Flint, Saanvi was determined to make an effort and be friends with them. Terran was so far a good start, the two getting along very quickly and learning more about each other. Hopefully there wouldn’t be too many distractions from the main objective at hand; reviewing case files.

  While fussing over her attire, Saanvi showcased her wardrobe to Rosie and Victor, who had come over to visit. The two grouches pouted at Saanvi for accepting the date invitation. It seemed no matter what positive feedback Saanvi gave, it wasn’t enough to convince them that Terran was really a good guy.

Victor: I still can’t believe you’re going out with this chump..

Saanvi: *pouts* It is simple dinner to discuss case matters.. Why are you being so difficult?

Victor: I think I’m being pretty reasonable here! He’s an asshole!

Saanvi: Said kettle about the pot..

Rosie: I still don’t like him..

Saanvi: You’ve said many times.. *puts on bangle bracelets* How do I look?

Rosie: You look beautiful, Vi.. Now why don’t you cancel on Terran and go out with me and Vic! We could have fun, maybe go to the ice rink again. They have an arcade theeeere.~

Saanvi: *squints at them* You know I don’t like ice rink.. And he’s already on his way here!

Victor: So call and say you got a stomach bug or something! He doesn’t have to know.~

Saanvi: *huffs* You two would be experts on skipping on dates..

Rosie: *pouts* What is that supposed to mean? I don’t skip out on dates… unless it's with Mystic, but that’s different!

Victor: And I’m always a gentlecolt, I don’t skip out on dates! …. Unless you count that crazy chick from my skater days..

Saanvi: See? Experts! Hmhmhm.~ And I am also going to talk about cases with him, not just dinner.

Rosie: Booooring, why can’t you do that while at work. We are going to be having sooooo much more fun. You should join us!

Saanvi: *rolls her eyes* Because you would only keep trying to shoo him away from me. You are welcome to join us if--

Victor: Nooooope!

Saanvi: Then stop whining!

Rosie: *folds her arms and pouts* Fine.. But I still don’t like it. *glances at Saanvi* … You do look pretty by the way.

Saanvi: *smiles* Thank you.~

Victor: I didn’t know you even liked wearing jewelry. Where’ve you been hiding that stuff?

Saanvi: *ear twitches* Oh I just, never had chance to wear them out before, heheh..~

Rosie: You could wear them when we go out, I love accessorizing! *shows off her charm bracelet* We could go shopping and get you some new jewelry too! Make Victor carry all our bags, hmhmhm~

Victor: *ears spring up* Make Victor do WHAT?

Saanvi: *chuckles* That does sound nice. These are old and I could probably sell them too.. Gold jewelry resells nicely, yes?

Rosie: *shrugs* I would guess so. I keep almost every piece of jewelry I have, usually for sentimental reasons… *cringes* Even my engagement ring. Bleh..

Victor: *cringes* Can’t believe you’re still holding onto that thing..

Rosie: I’m pretty sure it's a priceless heirloom and when Mystic asks for it back, I’m not paying him back for it, Victor..!

Victor: Hmhm, fair. That thing probably costs more than this building.

Saanvi: *grimaces* Now I almost feel bad for thinking of tossing it in river.

Rosie: Ugh, that would be the worst. Nothing is worse than when a guy holds over your head that he got you something pretty and now he’s the “Good Guy”, and you owe him something. And some dickbag noble who can’t handle being told “No” isn’t someone I want to be indebted to..

Saanvi: *ears fold back, looking at her jewelry* .. Right…

*Knock Knock Knock*

Saanvi: Thank goodness.. *opens the door* H-hi Terran! *tail wiggles*

Terran: *smiles* Hey, Spots~ I hope you weren’t waiting long, I had to run an errand real quick before heading over here.

Saanvi: No no, not at all! I just finished getting ready.~ *brushes her hair back a bit*

Terran: *looks Saanvi over* You look great! Like a golden field of wheat on a sunny afternoon.~

Victor: *glaring from behind the couch and whispers to Rosie* The fuck does that even mean…?

Rosie: *whispers back* I don’t know, I don’t speak hick.. *calls out* …’Sup Terran.

Terran: *ears perk* Oh, hey Quartz, hehe.. Didn’t even notice ya there. And uuuh... Bates, right? I keep forgetting your name…

Victor: *squints* Victor Bates! *grumbles quietly* Asshole..

Saanvi: *turns to glare at them*

Terran: *rubs the back of his head* Right! I knew that.. Anyways! You ready to get going? I don’t know about you, but I’m starving, hehehe!

Saanvi: *turns back and smiles* Yes, let’s get going, heheh! We have much to talk about! *takes his arm to lead him away*

Victor: *calls out* Be back before ten, young lady!!! No sleepovers either!!!

Saanvi: *slams the door shut*

Rosie: *pouts* Rude… I bet he keeps calling her Spots because he forgot her name too. What a dick..

Victor: He sure as hell forgot mine, but I know his! Tch! *sits back down* I swear to goddesses, he better not get handsy..! She’s way too soft for him!

Rosie: *sits as well* Goddesses, I hope he does get handsy!

Victor: *raises a brow* What?!

Rosie: Saanvi never leaves home without her batons~ One wrong move and BZZT! Tazed! That will make some “sparks fly”, if you know what I mean! Bahaha! *making a stabbing motion*

Victor: … Huh, then yeah. I hope he gets handsy. *grins smuggly*

Meanwhile…

Saanvi: I am sorry about Rosie and Victor.. They are very overprotective of me.. I think because I am shorter.. *pouts*

Terran: It’s fine, honestly! I get it. They really care about you a lot, heh.~

Saanvi: *smiles* Yes, hmhmhm..~ So uhm. What place you have in mind for dinner this time?

Terran: Well, since you are all dressed up so pretty, I figured I’d take you somewhere a little nicer this time. It’s not one of those ritzy gourmet restaurants, don’t worry.. But it’s another one of my favorites. Good prices, good food, if you like Chineighs that is~

Saanvi: *ears perk* That sounds delicious, heheh! I’ve only ever had cheap takeout, so this will be nice surprise! *looks at all her jewelry* … I am not, dressed too fancy, am I?

Terran: *shakes his head* Noooo, no not at all, hehehe. Maybe a little more than what I’m used to, but you always look pretty. Even without the fancy jewelry.~

Saanvi: *cheeks turn pink* Hmm..~ Thank you, hehehe.~ *tail wiggles happily*

  After walking down the streets of Canterlot, the two approached an ornately decorated building with asian themes. A metal sculpture of a burning phoenix holding a dagger stood proudly near the entrance of the restaurant. After holding the door open for Saanvi, Terran approached the front desk where a small mare sat.

Terran: Table for two please. In the back, by the fountain…

Mare: *looks up and ears perk, her eyes then darting over to Saanvi* … Yes, of course. This way, please.

Saanvi: *looking around the place* Oooh this is lovely! The decorations are beautiful.~

Terran: *chuckles* It’s got a nice feel to it, doesn’t it? *pulls out a chair for Saanvi, their table behind a loud decorative fountain of an eastern dragon holding a dagger in his mouth* Gives us a little privacy too. I hope you don’t mind.

Saanvi: *sits down* Are you sure it is safe to discuss that here..? There are so many ponies..

Terran: No one is paying any mind to us. As long as we don’t draw any attention to ourselves, we won’t have anything to worry about. *sits down and takes a menu*

Saanvi: *looks around, but picks her menu up as well* Alright, heheh.. *looks over the food choices*

Terran: *ears twitch before reaching over and putting his hand on Saanvi’s* You know, I didn’t just ask you out to discuss work. I also wanted to spend more time with you.. So if you aren’t comfortable talking about the cases right now, we could just enjoy ourselves and make this a real date.~

Saanvi: *ears perk, face turning bright red* That… That would be nice too, heheh..~ *holds onto Terran’s hand*

Terran: *smiles back and squeezes her hand before looking back at the menu*

  Unbeknownst to Saanvi and Terran, they weren’t the only ones who had come for a bite to eat. Further across the restaurant and taking their seats was Rosie and Victor, both dressed in loosely planned disguises. Unfortunately for Victor, he had to squeeze himself into some of Rosie’s clothes and dawn some makeup to appear like a mare. A very… big… muscular, mare.

Victor: *shuffling a bit* Ugh, can’t believe I let you dress me up.. Were the panties really needed..?!

Rosie: You never complained before about getting into my panties before. Besides, you did a great job on your makeup, you look beautiful! My bisexual heart is a flutter, hmhmhm~ *putting a hand on her chest*

Victor: *grumbles* I’m pretty sure if I bend over all your clothes are gonna rip..

Rosie: Then don’t bend over.. I offered the comfy dress but apparently that was crossing a line.

Victor: You know damn that dress was a lot more skimpy..! No amount of tucking would hide enough under that dress..!

Rosie: The fact that you know what Tucking is, only encourages the thought that you are secretly a drag queen…

Victor: *squints* I’ve seen Dasher get dressed as a mare in the locker room, excuse me for being curious how it works..!

Rosie: Wouldn’t Dasher love to see you now~ *holds up her phone*

Victor: *reaches out to snatch it* Don’t you fuckin’ dare!

Rosie: *sighs and adjusts her fake mustache* Fiiiiine, be salty… *looks over to the fountain* … Can you hear what they are talking about?

Victor: *ears twitch* Hrmm, not a damn thing. Stupid fountain is muffling every word they say..

Rosie: *pouts* Well that makes coming here kind of pointless.. Can you at least see what they are doing?

Victor: *turns to look, peering over his menu* ….. They’re holding hands.

Rosie: In public? Disgusting… I knew he was up to no good…

Victor: For shaaaame, Vivi… *keeps watching them* She’s giggling… Looks like he’s telling some stupid story about lifting weights… What a chode..

Rosie: *rolls her eyes* Like that would ever work. Flexing and showing off like that is sooooo cringe. Guys who do that are just– *stops and looks at Victor* …… *looks to the side* Hmmm..

Victor: *staring into her eyes* Go ahead and finish that… I dare ya… *squints*

Rosie: Hmm…. Well.. it is a little cute sometimes… Like peacocks! Everyone likes peacocks!

Victor: ….. Uuh-huh… *turns to watch Saanvi and Terran again*

Rosie: Oh come one, Vic, you know I wasn’t talking about you… And when you do it, we are just goofing around, it’s not like when Terran or Flint does it. It’s like they are so insecure about their masculinity they have to be dicks to everyone to compensate..

Victor: *stares at her even harder* …. *puts his menu down and crosses his arms, his voice going high pitched* This is the worst date I’ve ever been on… Hmph! *turns his nose up*

Rosie: *ears springs up* What?! Why are you upset, I’m not even– Ugh, mares, I swear.. It’s always something… *folds her arms and grumps*

Back across the room…

Saanvi: *watching the odd couple* What do you think is wrong..?

Terran: *shrugs* Heck if I know, probably lovers quarrel over something stupid, like getting somewhere late or asking for directions, hmhmhm. My mom and pops used to bicker like that all the time, especially on vacation.

Saanvi: *smiles at that* Sounds right, heheheh. My father was very loving stallion, but pray for him if he forgot a special date night or did not notice mama’s new haircut, hehehehe!

Terran: *snickers* Hell has no fury like a mare’s scorn, hmhmhm… And from the look of that one, she has a LOT of it.. Woof… *cringes*

Saanvi: *grimaces a bit* I wish luck to that poor stallion on whatever he said to her, heheheh..~

Once food was ordered and drinks were brought, Saanvi couldn’t help but think about the cases. Even though Terran said they didn’t have to talk about it then and there, it was still the main reason why she came.

Saanvi: Uhm… So about the case file you have.. Was it really more than mine and Rosie’s? More information?

Terran: *pulls out a yellow envelope out of his jacket and slides it across the table* Have a look for yourself. Our task was to look through all of Epsilon’s past missions and follow up on them and see if we found anything. These are the files on those missions along with photos they took. We went to the same places but found nothing.. Whoever was there isn’t anymore..

Saanvi: *opens the envelope and looks through it, her ears slowly folding back* Hrmmm…. So then, not much better than what we have.. *looks up, her brows a bit furrowed* Ugh, and Flint gloated it was more…!

Terran: *grimaces* Don’t be too mad at him, he’s just as frustrated as I am that we weren’t able to find more.. Then you two showed up demanding we show you what we have and… I think we were just ashamed that it was practically nothing. Flint challenging Quartz to that stupid spar was just to scare her off, neither of us thought it would get so out of hand. I mean… you saw what Quartz did, right? *ears fold back*

Saanvi: *puts the photos down* Yes, but… That doesn’t make Rosie dangerous.. She was just angry, and what you said to her really hurt..! *pouts a bit* Saying she is traitorous whore just because of her mother and father… *looks away and snorts*

Terran: *cringes a bit* Well, her father was a traitor for what he did, and after what happened with Epsilon, we didn’t want to take any chances… And.. I don’t know. I guess I was just hoping she’d quit pushing so much to see what we had if I insulted her enough. I don’t actually mean it though. If you trust her, then so do I..

Saanvi: *looks at him a bit then sighs* I really do… But that does not make what you said okay.. Her step-mother torments her enough for what her father did..

Terran: *ears perked* I’m surprised they are still married. I wouldn’t want to stay with someone who cheated on me..

Saanvi: *grimaces* It is mystery.. Marriage can be very complicated.. *rubs her arm a bit, fiddling with her jewelry*

Terran: Unfortunately.. That’s something I like about living out in the country, away from the city. Things are just a little less complicated, heh.. You are with someone because you love ‘em. You grow what you eat and sell the rest, or trade for what you don’t have. There is none of this “upper class” and “lower class” and nobility and royalty. We are all just ponies, trying to live our lives.

Saanvi: *nods* No arranged marriages, corrupted wealthy.. Things would be much easier and peaceful without that mess..

Terran: *ear perked* Arranged marriages? … You don’t hear about it that much in Equestria anymore, but…. that’s something they still do in Bhatrot, right?

Saanvi: *looks up* Uh, yes.. It’s a very traditional part of Bhatrot, even today. Some ponies in Equestria do it too, especially Nobles. *muzzle scrunches*

Terran: *scoffs* Fuck the Nobles.. They cling to the past, their countless wealth, and their pointless traditions while innocent ponies starve and run out of their homes.

Saanvi: *ears twitch* So many go hungry just so they can enjoy freshest food and comfy roofs over head.. *grips her bracelets*

Terran: *smirks a bit* …. Wouldn’t things be better if we didn’t have a nobility class anymore?

Saanvi: *sighs* Sometimes I think so.. Then Rosie would not be pressured into marrying a stallion she hardly knows..!

Terran: *grimaces* I knew that the Quartz were loaded, but arranged marriages? That's usually something you see with the Royals and Nobles..

Saanvi: *shrugs* Money and power, yes? I assume that’s what her step-mother wants of her.. It is so frustrating, watching Rosie have to go through it. I wish I could do something to help her.. That Mystic looks sweet now but- one day he could be sour and hurtful..! I don’t want Rosie to go through that too..!

Terran: *ears perk* …. That.. too?

Saanvi: *ears spring up, looking up a bit wide eyed* I-I…… *grips her bracelets tighter* I c-can’t talk about it.. I don’t want anypony to hear..

Terran: *expression softens* … Well, no one can hear us now. *nods to the fountain*.. And I promise you, I won’t tell a soul.

Saanvi: *glances at the fountain, her ears drooping back* … I had to go through arranged marriage as well.. Years ago, I was set to marry a very wealthy stallion’s son. He was important figure in the city, and at first he was so kind and sweet to me.. *looks down at her jewelry* But when we were alone, he would say horrible things.. And when we were married, he would hit me.. *eyes water up a bit, but wipes her eyes*

Terran: *reaches and gently takes Saanvi’s hand in his* Goddesses…

Saanvi: Sometimes he would be angry if I cooked dinner wrong, or comment on my figure and weight when I ate more than him.. And when it came to intimacy… *looks down* If I say no, he would… *closes her eyes tight* I-I took things from my father’s office so I would never bare his children.. I could not stand being trapped with him…! If I had his baby, then I could never leave..

Terran: *grimaces* … So how did you leave?

Saanvi: *fiddles with her jewelry* My eldest brother helped me.. We faked my death, telling officers I drowned in the ocean. But really, I was on boat to come here, heheh..~ *smile fades* This jewelry, my ex-husband would give me after every fight as an apology for being mean.. I always thought he would change after he gave me these… I was stupid to hope he was telling the truth..

Terran: *looks at the bracelet* Any gift from a snake like that are only shackles. Constant reminders of what he did to you and what you had to go through. It doesn’t matter how fancy or expensive they are, you look so much more beautiful without them.

Saanvi: *looks up with shiny eyes and pink cheeks* … Hmhm, you’re right..~ *starts taking off the bracelets, necklaces and earrings*

Terran: *smiles* Feel a little better?

Saanvi: *sets them all down in a pile* Yes… For once, I actually do. *tail wiggles a bit* Thank you, Terran..~

Terran: *shakes his head* You don’t have to thank me for nothing, Saanvi. You did it all yourself, heh. You got to be one of the bravest ponies I’ve ever met~

Saanvi: *blushes even more before smiling, standing up as she leans over the table to kiss his cheek*

Terran: *blushes brightly, tail wiggling* Mmm~

Back across the room…

Victor: Oh HELL-to the FUCK- No..!

Rosie: *winces* Shush! Why do you have to be so loud when we are in public.. *shielding her face from the others staring*

Victor: Oh I dunno.. Maybe cuz Vi is kissing that assface..?!

Rosie: WHAT?! *turns around to look*

Waitress: *standing in the way* …. Sir, Ma’am… I’m going to have to ask you both to leave. You are causing a.. disturbance..

Victor: *looks up and squints, his voice high again* Why, because ponies think I’m ugly..? I’ve seen you staring..!

Waitress: You said it, not me. *gestures to the door*

Rosie: *groans* Ugh, I fiiine. Come on, “honey”... *standing up and whisper to Victor* We’ll just follow them when they leave..

Victor: *grumbles, talking normal* Alright, fine.. I’m more in the mood for pizza anyways.

Rosie: Why do you always have to think with your stomach? We aren’t here for food, we are here to keep an eye on Saanvi and make sure that Terran doesn’t try anything funny. And now look what happened! *as she exits the restaurant*

Victor: *follows her* Well sorry, but you didn’t let me eat a thing before we came out here! I’m a big stallion, I gotta eat! *crosses his arms, spotting ponies stare as they pass by* WHAT?! You got something you wanna say, jackasses?! *watches them run away*

Rosie: *rolls her eyes* Alright, we’ll get something to eat. Goddesses you are such a bitch when you are hungry…… You know, you’d be prettier if you smiled more.~ *with a cheeky grin*

Victor: *scowls harder* One of my testies is ready to pop out of your underwear, let’s just go..

Rosie: *wraps an arm around Victor and leads him toward a pizza join* Could be worse, could be a thong.

Back in the restaurant…

Saanvi: *blinks as the waitress escorted the weird couple out* Aaw, they didn’t even get to eat..

Terran: I guess their fighting got out of hand.. I’m sure they’ll find something they can agree on. *as he starts scooping up the photos from the file he brought*

Saanvi: For their sake I hope so… *looks to the photos until her ears spring* Wait, wait a second.! *reaches to stop him*

Terran: *ears perked and he stopped* What?

Sanvi: *takes two photos and puts then side by side* …. Hmm.. It is a little blurry, but this missing pony here.. Look. This photo of the suspect has the same exact color tail as them.. It is same length as when they were reported missing too…! *looks to Terran* What if they did not go missing at all?

Terran: *looks at the photos and compares other photos* Uuh… well, um.. Epsilon was following up on some supposed gang activity. Anonymous tips saying a large number of ponies and other creatures were meeting in an abandoned warehouse. We thought maybe it was a drug ring or a fight club. These blurry photos were all they were able to get. Cloaked figures with a weird glowing green something. Me and Flint went there to check it out but the place looked pretty abandoned…

Saanvi: *squints* So then, this missing pony in mine and Rosie’s file.. That could be then in the photo..! *tilts her head a bit* So they just ran away…? *looks to the side* If that is true then, we really did just chase wild geese..

Terran: *smiles* But this is still good, maybe our two cases are connected after all….. We can talk to Flint and Pierce about it tomorrow, gather all of your missing case photos and cross reference them to the photos that Epsilon took. I’m sure with enough evidence, the General will give us the go-ahead to go check out these locations again.

Saanvi: *nods a bit* Maybe that can show us more we are not seeing..~ *gathers the photos to tuck them away safely* Hmhm, not too groundbreaking, but it is start.

Terran: *smirks* We make a pretty good team, I think. I’m sure both Quartz and Flint will be excited to hear we at least have a lead.

Saanvi: Heheh we can only hope. *smiles* I am glad we could cooperate better. And it has been nice getting to know you better on these dates..~

Terran: *puts the folder away and sees the jewelry on the table* .. Thank you, for telling me about your past. I know that wasn’t easy but I’m honored that you put that trust in me to keep a secret. I’m happy to say that I fully misjudged you and I am grateful for this chance to really get to know the real you.~

Saanvi: *blushes at that* Hmhm, it felt good talking about it. *looks down* Maybe at some point I can tell Rosie.. But it does not feel like right time with what’s going on with her..

Terran: *grimaces* I feel bad for her, that she has to go through that.. Maybe something will come up that will help.. So history doesn’t have to repeat itself..

Saanvi: *nods* I sure hope so…
-------------------------------------------------------
Another flashback episode! This is a few weeks before the Galloping Gala btw! After a nice date, we got to learn a little bit more about Saanvi's dark pas, as well as some lead in her missing ponies case! Could they really be connected? Find out next time!

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Description

A few more days after the first dinner, Terran and Saanvi planned to meet up again for another date. Even though Rosie was one hundred percent sure she didn’t want to mingle with neither him or Flint, Saanvi was determined to make an effort and be friends with them. Terran was so far a good start, the two getting along very quickly and learning more about each other. Hopefully there wouldn’t be too many distractions from the main objective at hand; reviewing case files.

  While fussing over her attire, Saanvi showcased her wardrobe to Rosie and Victor, who had come over to visit. The two grouches pouted at Saanvi for accepting the date invitation. It seemed no matter what positive feedback Saanvi gave, it wasn’t enough to convince them that Terran was really a good guy.

Victor: I still can’t believe you’re going out with this chump..

Saanvi: *pouts* It is simple dinner to discuss case matters.. Why are you being so difficult?

Victor: I think I’m being pretty reasonable here! He’s an asshole!

Saanvi: Said kettle about the pot..

Rosie: I still don’t like him..

Saanvi: You’ve said many times.. *puts on bangle bracelets* How do I look?

Rosie: You look beautiful, Vi.. Now why don’t you cancel on Terran and go out with me and Vic! We could have fun, maybe go to the ice rink again. They have an arcade theeeere.~

Saanvi: *squints at them* You know I don’t like ice rink.. And he’s already on his way here!

Victor: So call and say you got a stomach bug or something! He doesn’t have to know.~

Saanvi: *huffs* You two would be experts on skipping on dates..

Rosie: *pouts* What is that supposed to mean? I don’t skip out on dates… unless it's with Mystic, but that’s different!

Victor: And I’m always a gentlecolt, I don’t skip out on dates! …. Unless you count that crazy chick from my skater days..

Saanvi: See? Experts! Hmhmhm.~ And I am also going to talk about cases with him, not just dinner.

Rosie: Booooring, why can’t you do that while at work. We are going to be having sooooo much more fun. You should join us!

Saanvi: *rolls her eyes* Because you would only keep trying to shoo him away from me. You are welcome to join us if--

Victor: Nooooope!

Saanvi: Then stop whining!

Rosie: *folds her arms and pouts* Fine.. But I still don’t like it. *glances at Saanvi* … You do look pretty by the way.

Saanvi: *smiles* Thank you.~

Victor: I didn’t know you even liked wearing jewelry. Where’ve you been hiding that stuff?

Saanvi: *ear twitches* Oh I just, never had chance to wear them out before, heheh..~

Rosie: You could wear them when we go out, I love accessorizing! *shows off her charm bracelet* We could go shopping and get you some new jewelry too! Make Victor carry all our bags, hmhmhm~

Victor: *ears spring up* Make Victor do WHAT?

Saanvi: *chuckles* That does sound nice. These are old and I could probably sell them too.. Gold jewelry resells nicely, yes?

Rosie: *shrugs* I would guess so. I keep almost every piece of jewelry I have, usually for sentimental reasons… *cringes* Even my engagement ring. Bleh..

Victor: *cringes* Can’t believe you’re still holding onto that thing..

Rosie: I’m pretty sure it's a priceless heirloom and when Mystic asks for it back, I’m not paying him back for it, Victor..!

Victor: Hmhm, fair. That thing probably costs more than this building.

Saanvi: *grimaces* Now I almost feel bad for thinking of tossing it in river.

Rosie: Ugh, that would be the worst. Nothing is worse than when a guy holds over your head that he got you something pretty and now he’s the “Good Guy”, and you owe him something. And some dickbag noble who can’t handle being told “No” isn’t someone I want to be indebted to..

Saanvi: *ears fold back, looking at her jewelry* .. Right…

*Knock Knock Knock*

Saanvi: Thank goodness.. *opens the door* H-hi Terran! *tail wiggles*

Terran: *smiles* Hey, Spots~ I hope you weren’t waiting long, I had to run an errand real quick before heading over here.

Saanvi: No no, not at all! I just finished getting ready.~ *brushes her hair back a bit*

Terran: *looks Saanvi over* You look great! Like a golden field of wheat on a sunny afternoon.~

Victor: *glaring from behind the couch and whispers to Rosie* The fuck does that even mean…?

Rosie: *whispers back* I don’t know, I don’t speak hick.. *calls out* …’Sup Terran.

Terran: *ears perk* Oh, hey Quartz, hehe.. Didn’t even notice ya there. And uuuh... Bates, right? I keep forgetting your name…

Victor: *squints* Victor Bates! *grumbles quietly* Asshole..

Saanvi: *turns to glare at them*

Terran: *rubs the back of his head* Right! I knew that.. Anyways! You ready to get going? I don’t know about you, but I’m starving, hehehe!

Saanvi: *turns back and smiles* Yes, let’s get going, heheh! We have much to talk about! *takes his arm to lead him away*

Victor: *calls out* Be back before ten, young lady!!! No sleepovers either!!!

Saanvi: *slams the door shut*

Rosie: *pouts* Rude… I bet he keeps calling her Spots because he forgot her name too. What a dick..

Victor: He sure as hell forgot mine, but I know his! Tch! *sits back down* I swear to goddesses, he better not get handsy..! She’s way too soft for him!

Rosie: *sits as well* Goddesses, I hope he does get handsy!

Victor: *raises a brow* What?!

Rosie: Saanvi never leaves home without her batons~ One wrong move and BZZT! Tazed! That will make some “sparks fly”, if you know what I mean! Bahaha! *making a stabbing motion*

Victor: … Huh, then yeah. I hope he gets handsy. *grins smuggly*

Meanwhile…

Saanvi: I am sorry about Rosie and Victor.. They are very overprotective of me.. I think because I am shorter.. *pouts*

Terran: It’s fine, honestly! I get it. They really care about you a lot, heh.~

Saanvi: *smiles* Yes, hmhmhm..~ So uhm. What place you have in mind for dinner this time?

Terran: Well, since you are all dressed up so pretty, I figured I’d take you somewhere a little nicer this time. It’s not one of those ritzy gourmet restaurants, don’t worry.. But it’s another one of my favorites. Good prices, good food, if you like Chineighs that is~

Saanvi: *ears perk* That sounds delicious, heheh! I’ve only ever had cheap takeout, so this will be nice surprise! *looks at all her jewelry* … I am not, dressed too fancy, am I?

Terran: *shakes his head* Noooo, no not at all, hehehe. Maybe a little more than what I’m used to, but you always look pretty. Even without the fancy jewelry.~

Saanvi: *cheeks turn pink* Hmm..~ Thank you, hehehe.~ *tail wiggles happily*

  After walking down the streets of Canterlot, the two approached an ornately decorated building with asian themes. A metal sculpture of a burning phoenix holding a dagger stood proudly near the entrance of the restaurant. After holding the door open for Saanvi, Terran approached the front desk where a small mare sat.

Terran: Table for two please. In the back, by the fountain…

Mare: *looks up and ears perk, her eyes then darting over to Saanvi* … Yes, of course. This way, please.

Saanvi: *looking around the place* Oooh this is lovely! The decorations are beautiful.~

Terran: *chuckles* It’s got a nice feel to it, doesn’t it? *pulls out a chair for Saanvi, their table behind a loud decorative fountain of an eastern dragon holding a dagger in his mouth* Gives us a little privacy too. I hope you don’t mind.

Saanvi: *sits down* Are you sure it is safe to discuss that here..? There are so many ponies..

Terran: No one is paying any mind to us. As long as we don’t draw any attention to ourselves, we won’t have anything to worry about. *sits down and takes a menu*

Saanvi: *looks around, but picks her menu up as well* Alright, heheh.. *looks over the food choices*

Terran: *ears twitch before reaching over and putting his hand on Saanvi’s* You know, I didn’t just ask you out to discuss work. I also wanted to spend more time with you.. So if you aren’t comfortable talking about the cases right now, we could just enjoy ourselves and make this a real date.~

Saanvi: *ears perk, face turning bright red* That… That would be nice too, heheh..~ *holds onto Terran’s hand*

Terran: *smiles back and squeezes her hand before looking back at the menu*

  Unbeknownst to Saanvi and Terran, they weren’t the only ones who had come for a bite to eat. Further across the restaurant and taking their seats was Rosie and Victor, both dressed in loosely planned disguises. Unfortunately for Victor, he had to squeeze himself into some of Rosie’s clothes and dawn some makeup to appear like a mare. A very… big… muscular, mare.

Victor: *shuffling a bit* Ugh, can’t believe I let you dress me up.. Were the panties really needed..?!

Rosie: You never complained before about getting into my panties before. Besides, you did a great job on your makeup, you look beautiful! My bisexual heart is a flutter, hmhmhm~ *putting a hand on her chest*

Victor: *grumbles* I’m pretty sure if I bend over all your clothes are gonna rip..

Rosie: Then don’t bend over.. I offered the comfy dress but apparently that was crossing a line.

Victor: You know damn that dress was a lot more skimpy..! No amount of tucking would hide enough under that dress..!

Rosie: The fact that you know what Tucking is, only encourages the thought that you are secretly a drag queen…

Victor: *squints* I’ve seen Dasher get dressed as a mare in the locker room, excuse me for being curious how it works..!

Rosie: Wouldn’t Dasher love to see you now~ *holds up her phone*

Victor: *reaches out to snatch it* Don’t you fuckin’ dare!

Rosie: *sighs and adjusts her fake mustache* Fiiiiine, be salty… *looks over to the fountain* … Can you hear what they are talking about?

Victor: *ears twitch* Hrmm, not a damn thing. Stupid fountain is muffling every word they say..

Rosie: *pouts* Well that makes coming here kind of pointless.. Can you at least see what they are doing?

Victor: *turns to look, peering over his menu* ….. They’re holding hands.

Rosie: In public? Disgusting… I knew he was up to no good…

Victor: For shaaaame, Vivi… *keeps watching them* She’s giggling… Looks like he’s telling some stupid story about lifting weights… What a chode..

Rosie: *rolls her eyes* Like that would ever work. Flexing and showing off like that is sooooo cringe. Guys who do that are just– *stops and looks at Victor* …… *looks to the side* Hmmm..

Victor: *staring into her eyes* Go ahead and finish that… I dare ya… *squints*

Rosie: Hmm…. Well.. it is a little cute sometimes… Like peacocks! Everyone likes peacocks!

Victor: ….. Uuh-huh… *turns to watch Saanvi and Terran again*

Rosie: Oh come one, Vic, you know I wasn’t talking about you… And when you do it, we are just goofing around, it’s not like when Terran or Flint does it. It’s like they are so insecure about their masculinity they have to be dicks to everyone to compensate..

Victor: *stares at her even harder* …. *puts his menu down and crosses his arms, his voice going high pitched* This is the worst date I’ve ever been on… Hmph! *turns his nose up*

Rosie: *ears springs up* What?! Why are you upset, I’m not even– Ugh, mares, I swear.. It’s always something… *folds her arms and grumps*

Back across the room…

Saanvi: *watching the odd couple* What do you think is wrong..?

Terran: *shrugs* Heck if I know, probably lovers quarrel over something stupid, like getting somewhere late or asking for directions, hmhmhm. My mom and pops used to bicker like that all the time, especially on vacation.

Saanvi: *smiles at that* Sounds right, heheheh. My father was very loving stallion, but pray for him if he forgot a special date night or did not notice mama’s new haircut, hehehehe!

Terran: *snickers* Hell has no fury like a mare’s scorn, hmhmhm… And from the look of that one, she has a LOT of it.. Woof… *cringes*

Saanvi: *grimaces a bit* I wish luck to that poor stallion on whatever he said to her, heheheh..~

Once food was ordered and drinks were brought, Saanvi couldn’t help but think about the cases. Even though Terran said they didn’t have to talk about it then and there, it was still the main reason why she came.

Saanvi: Uhm… So about the case file you have.. Was it really more than mine and Rosie’s? More information?

Terran: *pulls out a yellow envelope out of his jacket and slides it across the table* Have a look for yourself. Our task was to look through all of Epsilon’s past missions and follow up on them and see if we found anything. These are the files on those missions along with photos they took. We went to the same places but found nothing.. Whoever was there isn’t anymore..

Saanvi: *opens the envelope and looks through it, her ears slowly folding back* Hrmmm…. So then, not much better than what we have.. *looks up, her brows a bit furrowed* Ugh, and Flint gloated it was more…!

Terran: *grimaces* Don’t be too mad at him, he’s just as frustrated as I am that we weren’t able to find more.. Then you two showed up demanding we show you what we have and… I think we were just ashamed that it was practically nothing. Flint challenging Quartz to that stupid spar was just to scare her off, neither of us thought it would get so out of hand. I mean… you saw what Quartz did, right? *ears fold back*

Saanvi: *puts the photos down* Yes, but… That doesn’t make Rosie dangerous.. She was just angry, and what you said to her really hurt..! *pouts a bit* Saying she is traitorous whore just because of her mother and father… *looks away and snorts*

Terran: *cringes a bit* Well, her father was a traitor for what he did, and after what happened with Epsilon, we didn’t want to take any chances… And.. I don’t know. I guess I was just hoping she’d quit pushing so much to see what we had if I insulted her enough. I don’t actually mean it though. If you trust her, then so do I..

Saanvi: *looks at him a bit then sighs* I really do… But that does not make what you said okay.. Her step-mother torments her enough for what her father did..

Terran: *ears perked* I’m surprised they are still married. I wouldn’t want to stay with someone who cheated on me..

Saanvi: *grimaces* It is mystery.. Marriage can be very complicated.. *rubs her arm a bit, fiddling with her jewelry*

Terran: Unfortunately.. That’s something I like about living out in the country, away from the city. Things are just a little less complicated, heh.. You are with someone because you love ‘em. You grow what you eat and sell the rest, or trade for what you don’t have. There is none of this “upper class” and “lower class” and nobility and royalty. We are all just ponies, trying to live our lives.

Saanvi: *nods* No arranged marriages, corrupted wealthy.. Things would be much easier and peaceful without that mess..

Terran: *ear perked* Arranged marriages? … You don’t hear about it that much in Equestria anymore, but…. that’s something they still do in Bhatrot, right?

Saanvi: *looks up* Uh, yes.. It’s a very traditional part of Bhatrot, even today. Some ponies in Equestria do it too, especially Nobles. *muzzle scrunches*

Terran: *scoffs* Fuck the Nobles.. They cling to the past, their countless wealth, and their pointless traditions while innocent ponies starve and run out of their homes.

Saanvi: *ears twitch* So many go hungry just so they can enjoy freshest food and comfy roofs over head.. *grips her bracelets*

Terran: *smirks a bit* …. Wouldn’t things be better if we didn’t have a nobility class anymore?

Saanvi: *sighs* Sometimes I think so.. Then Rosie would not be pressured into marrying a stallion she hardly knows..!

Terran: *grimaces* I knew that the Quartz were loaded, but arranged marriages? That's usually something you see with the Royals and Nobles..

Saanvi: *shrugs* Money and power, yes? I assume that’s what her step-mother wants of her.. It is so frustrating, watching Rosie have to go through it. I wish I could do something to help her.. That Mystic looks sweet now but- one day he could be sour and hurtful..! I don’t want Rosie to go through that too..!

Terran: *ears perk* …. That.. too?

Saanvi: *ears spring up, looking up a bit wide eyed* I-I…… *grips her bracelets tighter* I c-can’t talk about it.. I don’t want anypony to hear..

Terran: *expression softens* … Well, no one can hear us now. *nods to the fountain*.. And I promise you, I won’t tell a soul.

Saanvi: *glances at the fountain, her ears drooping back* … I had to go through arranged marriage as well.. Years ago, I was set to marry a very wealthy stallion’s son. He was important figure in the city, and at first he was so kind and sweet to me.. *looks down at her jewelry* But when we were alone, he would say horrible things.. And when we were married, he would hit me.. *eyes water up a bit, but wipes her eyes*

Terran: *reaches and gently takes Saanvi’s hand in his* Goddesses…

Saanvi: Sometimes he would be angry if I cooked dinner wrong, or comment on my figure and weight when I ate more than him.. And when it came to intimacy… *looks down* If I say no, he would… *closes her eyes tight* I-I took things from my father’s office so I would never bare his children.. I could not stand being trapped with him…! If I had his baby, then I could never leave..

Terran: *grimaces* … So how did you leave?

Saanvi: *fiddles with her jewelry* My eldest brother helped me.. We faked my death, telling officers I drowned in the ocean. But really, I was on boat to come here, heheh..~ *smile fades* This jewelry, my ex-husband would give me after every fight as an apology for being mean.. I always thought he would change after he gave me these… I was stupid to hope he was telling the truth..

Terran: *looks at the bracelet* Any gift from a snake like that are only shackles. Constant reminders of what he did to you and what you had to go through. It doesn’t matter how fancy or expensive they are, you look so much more beautiful without them.

Saanvi: *looks up with shiny eyes and pink cheeks* … Hmhm, you’re right..~ *starts taking off the bracelets, necklaces and earrings*

Terran: *smiles* Feel a little better?

Saanvi: *sets them all down in a pile* Yes… For once, I actually do. *tail wiggles a bit* Thank you, Terran..~

Terran: *shakes his head* You don’t have to thank me for nothing, Saanvi. You did it all yourself, heh. You got to be one of the bravest ponies I’ve ever met~

Saanvi: *blushes even more before smiling, standing up as she leans over the table to kiss his cheek*

Terran: *blushes brightly, tail wiggling* Mmm~

Back across the room…

Victor: Oh HELL-to the FUCK- No..!

Rosie: *winces* Shush! Why do you have to be so loud when we are in public.. *shielding her face from the others staring*

Victor: Oh I dunno.. Maybe cuz Vi is kissing that assface..?!

Rosie: WHAT?! *turns around to look*

Waitress: *standing in the way* …. Sir, Ma’am… I’m going to have to ask you both to leave. You are causing a.. disturbance..

Victor: *looks up and squints, his voice high again* Why, because ponies think I’m ugly..? I’ve seen you staring..!

Waitress: You said it, not me. *gestures to the door*

Rosie: *groans* Ugh, I fiiine. Come on, “honey”... *standing up and whisper to Victor* We’ll just follow them when they leave..

Victor: *grumbles, talking normal* Alright, fine.. I’m more in the mood for pizza anyways.

Rosie: Why do you always have to think with your stomach? We aren’t here for food, we are here to keep an eye on Saanvi and make sure that Terran doesn’t try anything funny. And now look what happened! *as she exits the restaurant*

Victor: *follows her* Well sorry, but you didn’t let me eat a thing before we came out here! I’m a big stallion, I gotta eat! *crosses his arms, spotting ponies stare as they pass by* WHAT?! You got something you wanna say, jackasses?! *watches them run away*

Rosie: *rolls her eyes* Alright, we’ll get something to eat. Goddesses you are such a bitch when you are hungry…… You know, you’d be prettier if you smiled more.~ *with a cheeky grin*

Victor: *scowls harder* One of my testies is ready to pop out of your underwear, let’s just go..

Rosie: *wraps an arm around Victor and leads him toward a pizza join* Could be worse, could be a thong.

Back in the restaurant…

Saanvi: *blinks as the waitress escorted the weird couple out* Aaw, they didn’t even get to eat..

Terran: I guess their fighting got out of hand.. I’m sure they’ll find something they can agree on. *as he starts scooping up the photos from the file he brought*

Saanvi: For their sake I hope so… *looks to the photos until her ears spring* Wait, wait a second.! *reaches to stop him*

Terran: *ears perked and he stopped* What?

Sanvi: *takes two photos and puts then side by side* …. Hmm.. It is a little blurry, but this missing pony here.. Look. This photo of the suspect has the same exact color tail as them.. It is same length as when they were reported missing too…! *looks to Terran* What if they did not go missing at all?

Terran: *looks at the photos and compares other photos* Uuh… well, um.. Epsilon was following up on some supposed gang activity. Anonymous tips saying a large number of ponies and other creatures were meeting in an abandoned warehouse. We thought maybe it was a drug ring or a fight club. These blurry photos were all they were able to get. Cloaked figures with a weird glowing green something. Me and Flint went there to check it out but the place looked pretty abandoned…

Saanvi: *squints* So then, this missing pony in mine and Rosie’s file.. That could be then in the photo..! *tilts her head a bit* So they just ran away…? *looks to the side* If that is true then, we really did just chase wild geese..

Terran: *smiles* But this is still good, maybe our two cases are connected after all….. We can talk to Flint and Pierce about it tomorrow, gather all of your missing case photos and cross reference them to the photos that Epsilon took. I’m sure with enough evidence, the General will give us the go-ahead to go check out these locations again.

Saanvi: *nods a bit* Maybe that can show us more we are not seeing..~ *gathers the photos to tuck them away safely* Hmhm, not too groundbreaking, but it is start.

Terran: *smirks* We make a pretty good team, I think. I’m sure both Quartz and Flint will be excited to hear we at least have a lead.

Saanvi: Heheh we can only hope. *smiles* I am glad we could cooperate better. And it has been nice getting to know you better on these dates..~

Terran: *puts the folder away and sees the jewelry on the table* .. Thank you, for telling me about your past. I know that wasn’t easy but I’m honored that you put that trust in me to keep a secret. I’m happy to say that I fully misjudged you and I am grateful for this chance to really get to know the real you.~

Saanvi: *blushes at that* Hmhm, it felt good talking about it. *looks down* Maybe at some point I can tell Rosie.. But it does not feel like right time with what’s going on with her..

Terran: *grimaces* I feel bad for her, that she has to go through that.. Maybe something will come up that will help.. So history doesn’t have to repeat itself..

Saanvi: *nods* I sure hope so…
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Another flashback episode! This is a few weeks before the Galloping Gala btw! After a nice date, we got to learn a little bit more about Saanvi's dark pas, as well as some lead in her missing ponies case! Could they really be connected? Find out next time!

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