(setting the scene)

The veil of night had fallen over the nation of Equestria, covering the land under a warm blanket of indigo, complemented by the stars that winked like faint pinpricks of light in the darkness.  The milky white glimmer of the moon bled through a cluster of clouds, shining down on the proud city of Manehattan like a cosmic spotlight.  The metropolis bustled with life, especially during the late hours of the evening.  The resident ponies were out and about, attending late night dramas at the theatre, gambling at casinos, dating at a restaurant, or partying at one of the many bars, to name just a few on a long list of recreational activities.  Such lively business earned Manehattan the title, “The City That Never Sleeps”.  But beneath the surface of carefree fun and peace, lied a rotten core run by lawless gangs, professional crime syndicates, and drug rings that preyed upon those who could not afford the more luxurious attributes of the city.  The city of Manehattan never slept, and neither did the underworld.

(action)

His wish was granted immediately, as a figure burst from the shadows, rolling right behind Coltrane and delivering a sturdy buck to his face.  Coltrane was propelled across the street, his body slamming into a fire hydrant.  Bulldog hurled his hostages to the side and swung a flurry of mighty paws at the assailant, but the attacks were easily evaded.  With a snarl, Bulldog threw himself at his attacker, slamming into them.  He rammed the assailant against the wall, causing them to audibly grunt in pain.  Bulldog pulled back, letting the assailant fall to the ground.  He clasped his hands over his head, preparing to bring down an axe-handle, until he was cut down by a blow to the groin.  Bulldog whimpered loudly and collapsed to his knees, rendering him vulnerable enough for the attacker to slam their forehoof into his face, knocking him unconscious.

Mare Do Well spotted her destination, a large tower that proudly stood above its neighboring skyscrapers.  Manehattan knew it as Ace Powers Industries; Mare Do Well knew it as home.  She quickened her speed and gracefully leapt off the building she currently occupied and fired her grappling hook at one of the many windows, catching the ledge.  She pulled herself toward the window, placing her hooves along the ledge, allowing her to peer through the glass and into an empty bedroom.  She gently pushed the window open and climbed inside the room, sliding the window shut behind her.