//------------------------------//
// Chapter 2 
// Story: In Service of The Crown 
// by A Winters Rose 
//------------------------------//

The dimly lit tavern hummed with the low murmur of conversation and the occasional clink of glasses. I sat in a secluded corner booth, my horn glowing faintly as I maintained a privacy spell around our table. Across from me sat Swift Step, a pegasus I'd worked with during my time at the EIA. His golden eyes darted nervously around the room, never quite meeting mine.

"I appreciate you meeting me, Swift," I said, pushing a mug of cider towards him. "I know it's not exactly... protocol."

Swift Step snorted, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "Protocol? Vi, nothing about this is protocol. Do you have any idea what would happen if they knew I was talking to you?"

I leaned forward, lowering my voice despite the privacy spell. "That's exactly why I need ponies like you, Swift. Good ponies who understand the importance of our work."

Swift took a long drink from his mug, his wings rustling restlessly against his sides. When he spoke again, his voice was barely above a whisper. "Look, I get what you're trying to do with this new agency of yours. But you're stepping on a lot of hooves, Vi. Powerful hooves."

"I know," I replied, unable to keep the edge of frustration out of my voice. "Believe me, I know. Every department I've dealt with has stonewalled me at every turn. That's why I need allies I can trust."

Swift's eyes narrowed. "And you think EIA agents are trustworthy? After what happened with Director Silvious?"

I felt a pang of guilt at the mention of the former director. My investigation had shaken the entire agency to its core, and I knew many agents still resented me for it. But I couldn't let that stop me now.

"Not all of them," I admitted. "But I know you, Swift. I've worked with you. I trust you."

For a long moment, Swift said nothing, his gaze fixed on the table between us. When he finally looked up, I saw a mix of emotions in his eyes – uncertainty, curiosity, and something that might have been respect.

"What exactly are you proposing, Vi?" he asked.

I took a deep breath. This was it – the moment of truth. "I want you to join the ROA. Bring your skills, your experience. Help me build something that can actually make a difference."

Swift's eyebrows shot up. "Leave the EIA? Are you serious?"

"I am," I replied, meeting his gaze steadily. "I know it's a lot to ask. But think about it, Swift. How many times have we stumbled across something that didn't add up, only to have it swept under the rug? How many 'classified' files have we been told to forget about?"

I could see the conflict playing out across Swift's face. He knew I was right – we'd both seen our share of questionable decisions during our time at the EIA. But leaving the agency was no small matter.

"It's not just about the job, Vi," he said, his voice low. "The EIA... they're not the kind of ponies you want to upset."

I nodded, understanding all too well. "I know. But that's exactly why we need ponies like you on our side. Ponies who know how they operate, who can help us navigate these complex waters."

Swift leaned back, his wings twitching nervously. "And what about protection? If I do this, I'm taking a big risk."

"We look after our own," I said firmly. "I'm working on securing official recognition for the ROA. Once we have that, we'll have the full backing of the crown."

Swift raised an eyebrow. "You mean you don't have that already?"

I felt a flush of embarrassment creep up my neck. "It's... a work in progress. But it will happen, Swift. I'm committed to making it work."

For what felt like an eternity, Swift sat in silence, his expression unreadable. I held my breath, acutely aware of how much I wanted him on board.

Finally, he spoke. "I can't give you an answer right now, Vi. This isn't something I can just decide on the spot."

I nodded, trying to hide my disappointment. "I understand. Take the time you need to think it over. But please, Swift – keep this conversation between us."

Swift managed a weak smile. "Don't worry. I know how to keep a secret." He drained the last of his cider and stood up. "I'll be in touch."

As I watched him leave, weaving his way through the crowded tavern, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was facing an uphill battle. Swift was just the first of many agents I hoped to recruit, but if I couldn't convince even him...

I shook my head, banishing the doubts. This was just the beginning. I had to believe that there were other agents out there, other ponies who wanted to contribute to something meaningful.

As I left the tavern, stepping out into the cool night air, my mind was already racing with plans for my next move. Swift might need time to think, but I couldn't afford to wait. There were other contacts to pursue, other avenues to explore.

The streets of Canterlot were quieter now, most ponies having retired for the night. As I made my way back to my makeshift office, I couldn't help but feel the weight of the task ahead. Building the ROA from scratch was proving to be more challenging than I'd ever imagined, but I refused to give up.

I had made a commitment – to myself and to Princess Celestia. The ROA would become a functional agency, operating with transparency and accountability. And I would make it happen, step by step.

As I rounded the corner onto the street where the ROA's dilapidated headquarters stood, a flicker of movement caught my eye. I froze, my horn instinctively lighting up with a defensive spell.

"Who's there?" I called out, my voice steady despite the sudden pounding of my heart.

For a moment, there was only silence. Then, from the shadows of a nearby alley, a figure emerged. As it stepped into the dim light of a streetlamp, I recognized the familiar face of Quill Scratch, another former colleague from the EIA.

"Quill?" I said, surprise and wariness warring in my mind. "What are you doing here?"

The earth pony mare regarded me with an unreadable expression, her usually neatly styled mane looking disheveled. "I heard you were recruiting," she said simply.

I tensed, my mind racing. How had she known? Had Swift said something already? Or was the EIA keeping closer tabs on me than I'd realized?

"And if I am?" I asked cautiously, not lowering my guard.

Quill took a step closer, her eyes darting nervously up and down the empty street. "Then I want to talk," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

I blinked, taken aback by her directness. Quill had always been one of the more by-the-book agents at the EIA. What could have driven her to seek me out like this?

"Why?" I asked, unable to keep the suspicion from my voice. "What's changed?"

Quill's expression hardened, a mix of frustration and concern flashing in her eyes. "Things at the EIA have been... different since you left, Violet. I think we need to talk about it."

I frowned, a sense of unease settling in the pit of my stomach. "What do you mean?"

Quill glanced over her shoulder, as if expecting to see somepony listening in. When she spoke again, her voice was even lower. "Not here. Can we go somewhere more private?"

I studied her face, searching for any sign of deception. But all I saw was genuine concern and determination.

"You understand what you're risking by coming to me, don't you?" I asked.

Quill nodded, a grim smile touching her lips. "I do. But I think this conversation is important."

I felt a mix of curiosity and caution. If Quill was willing to take this risk, she must have something significant to share.

"Alright," I said, making a decision.

I gestured towards the ROA headquarters, such as it was. As we walked, I maintained a vigilant watch on our surroundings, half-expecting to see EIA agents lurking in every shadow.

Once inside, I quickly cast a series of detection and privacy spells, ensuring we were truly alone. Quill raised an eyebrow at the precautions but said nothing.

"Okay," I said, turning to face her. "What's this about?"

As Quill began to speak, detailing the changes she had observed within the EIA, I listened intently. Her words painted a picture of an agency in flux, with new policies and procedures that seemed to prioritize secrecy over transparency.

But as I listened, a part of me couldn't help but wonder: was I reading too much into this? Or was there really something more going on beneath the surface?

Whatever the truth, one thing was clear – I needed more information. The ROA's mission to provide oversight would be crucial, but I needed to tread carefully. Jumping to conclusions without solid evidence could be disastrous.

As Quill continued her account, I began to formulate plans, considering strategies and potential next steps. The road ahead would be challenging, but for the first time since the ROA's creation, I felt a sense of purpose beyond just getting the agency off the ground.

The pieces were starting to fall into place. Now, it was up to me to figure out how they fit together and what picture they might reveal.





A few days after my conversation with Quill, I found myself walking through one of Canterlot's picturesque parks, the early morning sun casting long shadows across the dewy grass. Beside me trotted Quill Scratch, her mane now neatly combed, though dark circles under her eyes betrayed her recent stress.

"How are you holding up?" I asked, glancing at my new recruit.

Quill managed a wan smile. "It's... an adjustment. Resigning from the EIA wasn't easy, but I stand by my decision."

I nodded, understanding all too well the mix of emotions she must be feeling. "I appreciate you taking this risk, Quill. Your insight is going to be invaluable."

We found a secluded bench near a bubbling fountain, far enough from the main paths to ensure our privacy. As we settled in, I cast a subtle detection spell, more out of habit than any real expectation of trouble.

"So," Quill said, her voice low despite our isolated location, "what's our next move? I assume you have a plan?"

I sighed, running a hoof through my mane. "A plan in progress, at least. I got word yesterday that our official badges are being 'worked on.' Whatever that means."

Quill raised an eyebrow. "Bureaucratic stalling?"

"Most likely," I admitted. "But at least it's movement. In the meantime, I've been focusing on getting our headquarters into some semblance of order."

"Ah yes, the illustrious ROA headquarters," Quill said with a smirk. "How's that coming along?"

I couldn't help but chuckle. "Well, I've managed to clear out most of the dust and cobwebs. Found a few serviceable desks and chairs. It's not much, but it's a start."

"And what about equipment? Resources?" Quill asked, her analytical mind already at work.

I hesitated before answering. "That's... a bit more complicated. Without official recognition, we're working on a shoestring budget. Mostly what I can scrape together from my own savings."

Quill frowned. "That's not sustainable, Violet. We need proper funding if we're going to make any real progress."

"I know, I know," I said, frustration creeping into my voice. "But until we get that official stamp of approval, our options are limited. Which brings me to our immediate priorities."

I pulled out a small notebook, flipping it open to reveal a meticulously organized list. "First and foremost, we need to establish our legitimacy. That means pushing for those badges and official documentation. I'm thinking of scheduling another meeting with the Department of Security Measures, see if I can light a fire under them."

Quill nodded. "Good idea. And while you're doing that, I can start compiling a list of potential recruits. There are a few ponies at the EIA who might be sympathetic to our cause."

"Excellent," I said, jotting down a note. "But we need to be careful. We can't afford to tip our hoof too soon, especially if what you've told me about the changes at the EIA is true."

"Agreed," Quill said, her expression turning serious. "We should also start gathering information on the various departments we'll be overseeing. Building profiles, identifying potential trouble spots."

I smiled, feeling a surge of gratitude for Quill's experience and insight. "That's perfect. Your knowledge of EIA operations will be crucial there."

As we continued to discuss strategy, the park around us began to come to life. Early morning joggers trotted past, and the first street vendors started setting up their carts. It was a reminder of the normal, everyday life we were working to protect.

"There's one more thing," I said, lowering my voice even further. "We need to start investigating these changes at the EIA. Quietly, of course. If there's really something sinister going on, we need to know about it."

Quill's expression grew troubled. "That won't be easy, Violet. The EIA is notoriously tight-lipped, and if they suspect we're poking around..."

"I know," I said, cutting her off gently. "But it's necessary. We'll be careful, gather information gradually. For now, let's focus on what you already know, what you've observed. We'll build from there."

Quill nodded, though I could see the concern lingering in her eyes. "Alright. I'll start putting together a report on everything I've noticed over the past few months."

As our meeting drew to a close, I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. We had a plan, a direction, but the challenges ahead were daunting.

"One day at a time," I murmured to myself as we stood to leave.

"What was that?" Quill asked.

I smiled, feeling a renewed sense of determination. "Nothing. Just reminding myself that every journey begins with a single step. We've got a long road ahead of us, Quill, but I believe we're on the right path."

As we walked back towards the ROA headquarters, I couldn't shake the feeling that we were being watched. A quick glance around revealed nothing out of the ordinary, but years of intelligence work had honed my instincts.

"Quill," I said casually, "when we get back to the office, I think we should review those security protocols we discussed."

She caught my meaning immediately, her posture stiffening almost imperceptibly. "Of course. Always good to stay on top of things."

As we approached the building that served as our headquarters, I couldn't shake the nagging feeling of being watched. Years of intelligence work had honed my instincts, and right now, they were screaming at me to be cautious.

"Quill," I murmured, my eyes scanning our surroundings, "when we get inside, I want you to check the windows. Casually, like you're just admiring the view."

She gave an almost imperceptible nod, her posture relaxed but her eyes alert. As we entered, I began my usual routine of detection spells, my horn glowing softly as I swept the room for any signs of intrusion or surveillance.

The interior was still a far cry from a proper government office, but at least it was clean now. A few mismatched desks and chairs were arranged in what could generously be called a workspace. Quill moved to the windows, ostensibly straightening the threadbare curtains.

"Anything?" I asked, my voice low.

Quill shook her head. "Nothing obvious, but..." She trailed off, her brow furrowing.

"What is it?"

She gestured me over, pointing to a building across the street. "That flower shop. Was it open yesterday?"

I frowned, trying to recall. The street had been largely deserted when I'd arrived this morning, but now that she mentioned it, I couldn't remember seeing that shop before. "I... don't think so."

Quill's expression hardened. "And look at the displays. Those aren't real flowers."

My heart rate quickened as I studied the storefront. She was right. The "flowers" were too perfect, too still in the gentle breeze. "Could be nothing," I said, not believing it for a second.

"Could be," Quill agreed, her tone making it clear she didn't believe it either. "So, about those security protocols..."

I nodded, understanding her meaning. We needed to talk, but not here. Not where we might be overheard.

"Let's take a walk," I suggested, loud enough to be heard if the room was bugged. "Clear our heads before we dive into work."

As we exited the building, I cast a subtle muffling spell around us. It wouldn't stop a determined eavesdropper, but it would make casual overhearing impossible.

"So," I said as we strolled down the street, pointedly not looking at the suspicious flower shop, "what do you think? EIA? Or someone else?"

Quill's eyes darted around, taking in every detail of our surroundings. "Hard to say. The setup is sloppy by EIA standards, but that could be intentional. Make us think it's amateurs."

I nodded, considering the implications. "Either way, we need to be more careful. No more meetings in the office until we can secure it properly."

"Agreed. But that raises another question – how do we secure it? We're not exactly flush with resources."

The problem had been gnawing at me since we'd first discovered our ramshackle headquarters. "I've been thinking about that. We might need to get... creative."

Quill raised an eyebrow. "Creative how?"

I hesitated, knowing my next words could change everything. "There are... certain individuals I knew from my EIA days. Ponies with particular skills who operate in a sort of gray area."

"You mean criminals," Quill said flatly.

"Reformed criminals," I corrected, though the distinction felt weak even to me. "Ponies who've helped the EIA in the past in exchange for leniency."

Quill was silent for a long moment, her expression unreadable. When she finally spoke, her voice was low and serious. "Violet, are you sure about this? If we start down this path..."

"I know," I said, cutting her off gently. "Believe me, I've thought about it. But we're outgunned and outmaneuvered. We need every advantage we can get."

She sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. "You're right. I don't like it, but you're right. So, who did you have in mind?"

I allowed myself a small smile. "Ever heard of a unicorn named Cipher?"

Quill's eyes widened. "The encryption specialist? The one who nearly brought down the entire Equestrian banking system?"

"The very same. Last I heard, she was working odd jobs in Lower Canterlot. If anyone can secure our communications and sweep for bugs, it's her."

As we walked, I outlined my plan to recruit Cipher and potentially other "consultants" with unique skill sets. Quill listened intently, offering suggestions and pointing out potential pitfalls.

By the time we circled back to our headquarters, we had the beginnings of a strategy. It was risky, potentially compromising, but it felt like our best shot at getting the ROA off the ground.

As we approached the building, I noticed a flicker of movement in the window of the flower shop. "Looks like our friends are getting curious," I murmured.

Quill nodded almost imperceptibly. "Time to give them a show, then?"

I smirked, appreciating her quick thinking. Loudly, I said, "Well, I think that covers everything for now. Why don't you head home and get some rest? We've got a lot of paperwork to tackle tomorrow."

"Sounds good," Quill replied, matching my volume. "See you in the morning, boss."

As she trotted off, I made a show of locking up the office, my movements exaggerated for our unseen observers. Inside, my mind was already racing with plans for our next move.





As twilight descended upon Canterlot, I found myself in a decidedly less reputable part of the city. The cobblestone streets were cracked and uneven, the buildings around me a far cry from the gleaming spires of the upper districts. I pulled my cloak tighter around me, my horn hidden beneath the fabric.

The tavern I sought was nestled between a pawnshop and what appeared to be an abandoned warehouse. A weathered wooden sign hung above the door, its paint so faded that the name was barely legible: "The Rusty Horseshoe."

I took a deep breath, steeling myself before pushing open the door. The interior was dimly lit and hazy with smoke, the air thick with the scent of stale cider and unwashed bodies. A few patrons glanced up as I entered, their eyes quickly returning to their drinks when they saw nothing of interest.

I made my way to the bar, where a grizzled earth pony was wiping down glasses with a rag that had seen better days. "I'm looking for Cipher," I said, keeping my voice low.

The bartender grunted, jerking his head towards a secluded booth in the corner. "Don't cause no trouble," he warned.

As I approached the booth, I could make out the silhouette of a unicorn mare, her face hidden in the shadows. A faint magical aura surrounded her horn, creating a subtle distortion in the air – an encryption spell, no doubt.

"Cipher?" I asked, sliding into the seat across from her.

The mare leaned forward, allowing the dim light to illuminate her face. Her coat was a deep midnight blue, her mane a shock of electric green. A series of ones and zeros was etched across her flank – her cutie mark, I realized.

"Depends who's asking," she replied, her voice carrying a hint of amusement.

I lowered my hood, meeting her gaze. "Violet Codexa. We worked together on the Griffonstone operation."

Recognition flickered in Cipher's eyes, followed quickly by wariness. "Ah, Agent Codexa. Or should I say, Director now? Word travels fast in certain circles."

I nodded, impressed despite myself. "Then you know why I'm here."

Cipher leaned back, a smirk playing at the corners of her mouth. "You're building something new. Something that's got a lot of powerful ponies nervous. And you need help."

"That's right," I confirmed. "I need your expertise. Security systems, encryption, bug sweeps – the works."

The unicorn's horn flared briefly, intensifying the distortion field around us. "And what makes you think I'd be interested in working for another government agency? My last experience wasn't exactly... pleasant."

I leaned forward, my voice dropping to a whisper. "Because this isn't just another agency. We're trying to change things, Cipher. Root out corruption, hold the powerful accountable. But we can't do it alone."

Cipher studied me for a long moment, her expression unreadable. "What's in it for me? I doubt your fledgling agency has much of a budget."

"You're right," I admitted. "We don't have much in the way of funds. Not yet. But we will. And when we do, you'll be compensated handsomely for your work."

The unicorn snorted. "So you're asking me to work for free, with the promise of eventual payment? That's a hard sell, even for you."

I took a deep breath, knowing I was about to play my final card. "Not for free. In exchange for your help, I'm prepared to offer you a full pardon. Clean slate, all past offenses wiped away."

Cipher's eyes widened, a flicker of genuine surprise crossing her face. "You can do that?"

"I can," I said, projecting more confidence than I felt. In truth, I wasn't entirely sure I had the authority to make such an offer. But I was betting on the fact that by the time anyone thought to question it, we'd be too valuable to shut down.

For several tense moments, Cipher said nothing. I could almost see the gears turning in her head, weighing the risks and potential rewards.

Finally, she spoke. "Alright, Codexa. You've got my attention. But I want it in writing. And I'm not the only one you'll need."

I nodded, relief washing over me. "I know. I have a list of others with... unique skill sets. I was hoping you might help me track them down."

Cipher's smirk returned, a glint of excitement in her eyes. "Now that sounds interesting. Who else did you have in mind?"

As I began to outline my plans, I couldn't help but feel a mix of exhilaration and trepidation. We were venturing into murky ethical waters, but the potential payoff was too great to ignore.

Over the next few hours, Cipher and I pored over my list of potential recruits. There was Shadowhoof, a pegasus known for his ability to infiltrate even the most secure locations. Quicksilver, an earth pony with a talent for acquiring rare and often illegal magical artifacts. And Enigma, a unicorn whose mastery of illusion magic was said to be unparalleled.

As dawn began to break over Canterlot, we had the beginnings of a plan. Cipher agreed to start work on securing our headquarters immediately, while also reaching out to her contacts to locate the others.

"This is crazy, you know," Cipher said as we prepared to leave the tavern. "You're basically building a team of ex-criminals to police the government."

I couldn't help but chuckle. "When you put it that way, it does sound a bit mad. But sometimes, it takes a thief to catch a thief."

Cipher nodded, a genuine smile crossing her face for the first time. "Well, Director Codexa, I have to say – this might just be the most interesting job I've ever taken."

We parted ways after a quick goodbye. We were taking risks, bending rules, perhaps even breaking a few. But if it meant exposing the truth and protecting Equestria from those who would abuse their power, it was worth it.

The next few days passed in a whirlwind of activity. Cipher worked tirelessly to secure our headquarters, installing magical wards and encryption spells that would make even the most senior EIA observant agent look nervous.

Quill, initially skeptical of our new allies, quickly came to appreciate their unique skills. She took charge of coordinating our growing network of informants, using techniques she'd learned in the EIA but had never been allowed to fully implement.

As for me, I found myself juggling a dozen tasks at once. Between meetings with potential recruits, crafting cover stories for our operations, and continuing to navigate the labyrinthine bureaucracy of official recognition, I barely had time to sleep.

But despite the challenges, I could feel the momentum building. We were no longer just a concept or a royal decree – we were becoming a real agency, with real potential to effect change.

One evening, as I sat at my desk reviewing reports, Quill burst into my office, her eyes wide with excitement.

"Violet, you need to see this," she said, levitating a folder onto my desk.

I opened it, my eyes scanning the contents. It was a financial report, detailing a series of suspicious transactions linked to several high-ranking officials in the Department of Economic Affairs.

"Where did you get this?" I asked, my mind already racing with the implications.

Quill grinned. "Let's just say Shadowhoof earned his pardon tonight."

I leaned back in my chair, a mix of emotions washing over me. We had our first real lead, our first chance to prove what the ROA was capable of. But I also knew that this was just the beginning. The deeper we dug, the more dangerous our work would become.

As I looked up at Quill, I saw the same determination in her eyes that I felt in my heart. We were in this now, for better or worse.

"Alright," I said, standing up. "Let's get to work."

And who knows? Maybe Economic Affairs would be delighted to hand over some funding for our work as well. Food for thought?