Hunt and Be Hunted

Chapters

A New Adventure
The Derpy Way of Serching
Manehattan Library
Unraveling a Mystery
Who Could That Be?
Memories
Finding Lost Ones
Back to the Source
All My Friends Are Lab Rats
The Return of Blood Hunters
Someone Elses Dreams
Find The Remains
The Suffering of the Writer
Author Stuff
Bar Hoping
The Taint

A New Adventure

What a night last night was, Vinyl and myself were out all night and in the end I sprawled out all over the bed deciding that Vinyl was my pillow.

She groans under me and pushes me off the next morning "Octy are you even awake?" she sounds groggy.

I look at her through half closed eyes "of course, you don't sound like you are though."

She moves under me getting comfortable "that was a long night, wasn't it?"

I roll my eyes at her "what did you expect? we spent more than half the night searching for one of your Discordlings."

Discordling was the name that Vinyl had given to the spawn of Discord and Chrysalis.

I groaned in protest when she grabbed my hind legs playfully "are you still sore from that unicorn?" she let go of my legs thankfully.

I cuddled up to her "yes, wouldn't you be?"

She was taking her time to answer and I started to rub her coat but I stopped and she started to talk "I guess, but I would have never let him shove me into a wall" the memory made my legs hurt.

I started to poke her belly "you need a shower, your coat is disgusting."

The way she looked at me was priceless "why would I take a shower? I only need one maybe two times a week" I scrunched my nose at that one.

"Vinyl you really should shower every other day" she rolled her eyes at me and I poked her harder "will you do it for me?" she had mumbled some words about thinking about it and I went about looking for one of my bow ties; things were harder to find since temporarily moving to Manehatten.

"Fine I'll take a shower" - I nearly screeched with joy - "but don't expect it to be a habit."

I gave her my best puppy dog eyes while letting my lip quiver "pleeeease?" she only stammered a few things before going and starting her shower.

I heard her singing a few minutes later and I couldn't help but smile; she has one of the most girly voices when she's not speaking with her normal drawl.

I had an idea.

She screamed when I hugged her from behind in the shower "it's just me" she shuttered at my touch suddenly; she was excited but when she tried to embrace me I refused her "only if you promise to shower at least four times a week."

She scrunched her face at this "what if I let my hair down twice a week instead?" I considered it but in the end I told her it was that or I got out.

I went to take my first hoof step out of the shower "okay okay you win!" I embraced her and she screeched with delight.

"Vi-inal that-" she pressed me against the wall of the shower; hard and was rubbing against me hard and I could feel myself going tense as I struggle not to give up; the water from the shower was only making things harder.

She smiled and next thing I know I'm pinned to the bottom of the shower and she's rubbing my belly; I only groan pitifully when she spreads my hind legs "you're cute like this Octy" with that she licked my muzzle and tightened her grip making me tremble while I try to keep from losing myself.

She could tell and spread my legs out further and I whined before my breath caught.

After that split second before it rushed out, my body gave up and I screamed; she was enjoying herself still nowhere near her loss of control; I'm going to get you back for this tonight.

I was trembling under her while she was still going strong; why does she have- I was thrown into a long moan when she lost herself.

Eventually we got out of the tub and dried off, I groaned while Vinyl was putting my bow tie on for me "did you have to be so rough with my legs?" she just winked as she went about breakfast; at least until I stopped her and took over; I didn't want a whole loaf of bread wasted... again.

There was a knocking on the door and Vinyl eventually listened to me and opened it; Doctor Hooves and Derpy came in and plopped down at the table "find anything yet?" the question was received with shaking heads; at least I knew Derpy was paying attention.

"This one is good at not standing out" the statement settled for a minute before the door was pushed open by Bon Bon and Lyra; are they blushing?

"Sorry we're late, we had um an um bit of a err distraction this morning" Vinyl had a mischievous grin and before I could stop her she was blurting out a thought.

"I had that same problem, Octy surprised me in the shower and when we had started to-" I shoved a hoof into her mouth blushing red.

They had flushed further until what Vinyl had said sunk in; you are really going to get it tonight Vinyl.

I smacked her out of reflex when she touched between my thighs with her tail; you're just making it worse Vinyl.

My legs were getting restless and I started to pace around the room; Lyra and Bon Bon were whispering about something private, I wish Doctor Hooves and Derpy were that subtle about it, and well Vinyl was listening to music nothing out of the ordenary since we started to hunt for these Discordlings.

"Hooves, Derpy go to the market and ask around, Lyra, Bon Bon you two go to the bars and I'll be going to the library to do research with Vinyl" she groaned at that, she really hated the Manehatten library.

Everypony left so it was just Vinyl and myself; I grabbed her cheek bones and made her look me in the eyes "please be good this time Vinyl" - she was about to ask 'or what' - "and if you don't then tonight you'll be extremely high and dry" - she was quiet and nodded - "I'll try and be done before lunch" and with that we were on our way to the library.

The Derpy Way of Serching

How to go about explaining the mare known as Derpy? she always has criss crossed eyes and is loud when she talks; usually things that have only grazed her thoughts for a second or two. She is also a beautiful Pegasus with a cobalt coat and a blond mane as is her tail and a cutie mark that is five bubbles; I still haven't the slightest clue as to how she got them.

I liked not knowing though because it adds to the, mystery of things; I enjoy mysteries and haven't had a good one for a while aside from these Discord/Chrysalis creatures, the last mystery I had was during last years Winter Wrap Up.

"Let's go over there!" I quickly bit at Derpy's tail and just barely caught her to be dragged along through the crowd; it still surprised me that she was this strong and fast.

When I saw where she was dragging me I saw that we were headed for a Nightmare Night store that's open year round.

When Derpy had dragged me inside I scoffed at myself for mistaking an Antique shop for a Nightmare Night store and then I felt as giddy as when I read my first mystery novel; I love antiques they always hold some kind of mystery.

"Hello? Who's there?" an older mare was at the counter looking in our direction.

"Hi, we were just curious when walking by your shop today ma'am."

She gave me a curious look "your manner of speech is odd, where you from?" I cringed slightly at that sentence and told her I was born in Canterlot but live in Ponyville; she smiled softly at that name.

"I grew up there, a really nice place. How long you been there?" again I cringed.

"I believe that it has been two years-" she had interjected to see if I was moving to Manehatten, I told her that I was only here for a month or two while a friend was working at a club in downtown.

"DJ Pon-3?" - I was surprised but nodded; not many mares would dare go out after dark anywhere in Manehatten - "I knew her back when she was just Vinyl Scratch, always did what I could to help when she was younger" - another cringe - "she had a difficult childhood, if she hadn't been adopted…" her thoughts made her shrink.

"If she hadn't been adopted?" I was surprised to find that out.

"She'd have ended up like every orphan on the streets does, a whore or junkie…" I felt a shiver go through my spine on that one.

"How would that have changed things for Octavia?" she looked at me with an eyebrow raised.

"Did you just say Octavia? as in the famous Cellist?" it didn't surprise me that she had heard of Octavia; it did surprise me that I had spoke my mind though.

My attention was drawn to a necklace in a glass container while I spoke "yes, do you know her?"

Derpy was on my back nipping at my ear - "ooh pretty" - the mare at the counter laughed a little at Derpy's antics.

"Saw her at the Grand Galloping Galla, is it the one with the silver pendent?" Derpy said it was before I could even consider the word "how about you two take it?" I decided that I would and when I tried to pay her for it she just refused saying that it's one of those things that isn't sold but given.

I had thanked her and was on my way out but a book caught my attention "how much for this book?" I was marveling over the worn black leather binding.

"That old thing?" I could only nod taking it down from the shelf "it's been there for so long I don't even remember, let's say two bits" - I was eager to pay for it and put it away in my saddle bag - "if possible see if Vinyl Scratch can come by."

I agreed I would try to get her to come and then Derpy and myself were outside; I put the necklace around her neck and she hugged me suddenly "thank you!" I hugged her back after a moment of stunned silence.

We started to ask around about the creatures.

Manehattan Library

Vinyl is unable to stay still as if sensing that I'm about ready to call it quits for the day; she plopped down besides me and kissed the back of my neck "can we go yet Octy?" I hummed slightly finishing up the last book from my pile.

"Yes Vinyl, just one thing before we go" I trotted up to the front desk where a bored stallion was sitting "do you have any books for sell?" he looked at me like he was an aristocrat babysitting anarchists.

"We have books that are going to be thrown away" thrown away? why would you throw away books?

"How much to buy them from you guys?" the stallion cocked his eyebrow at my question.

"If you really want I'll let you have them for a bit" with that I started to rummage through my little purse I kept behind my bow tie; why did you have to put your ear buds in here Vinyl?

By the time I was able to find a bit in the mess of Vinyl's ear buds she had paid for them and was carrying them; I grumbled a bit having to got at a slight gallop to keep up with her.

I didn't need to ask why she was in such a hurry, we reached the apartment in record time and she held the door open for me "after you Octy."

I had rolled my eyes laughing a little when she wilted seeing that everypony was there talking to each other; well Bon Bon and Dr. Hooves, Lyra and Derpy were passed out in an awkward kind of embrace on the couch.

"Find anything?" I got head shakes of no, it was starting to get hopeless when it came to finding this last Discorling; Vinyl sat the box down on the table and I smiled slightly, at least I had a far shot of finding something "does anyone want something before going to their own rooms?"

No one did so we all went to relax; as soon as everypony was gone Vinyl tried to tackle me excited, I tilted my weight and she just fell to the ground. She tried this over and over again until she was panting for air.

I kissed her forehead and whispered in her ear with my voice of honey "give me a minute before you come to bed" I went into the bedroom after she agreed she would and then took off my bow tie before stretching; I groaned slightly because my legs were still sore.

I just relaxed on the bed until Vinyl came in; I told her to close her eyes and with a mischievous grin she couldn't see put her on the bed "count to five then open your eyes."

She screeched surprised when I wasn't there and panicked falling off the bed to start searching for me; I tackled her from behind and pressed her to the floor whispering in her ear "what to do with you?"

She squirms under me wanting to have some control that I don't give her.

I flip her over and lick from between her thighs up to the sensitive part of her neck; she only shutters.

I smile when she's moaning and begging seconds latter.

Laughing when she's tense minutes later.

And I gasp when she takes dominance and all I can do is blink.

She's a lot meaner than I was being.

A few seconds of her tail between my thighs and then gone.

I whimper after she gives me a half second of contact with her hoof.

I beg shamelessly after she nips my neck.

She doesn't give me anymore than short bursts and my lip quivers.

She just keeps teasing me until I'm trembling from the lust.

I bite my lip hoping to be taken.

She doesn't though; just teases me further.

I whine and plead to be taken trying to figure out how she stole the lead.

She smiled and I scream happily when she starts to rub my belly affectionately; finally she's done teasing me.

She stopped and winked; I whined being wrong trying to give her my best puppy dog while biting my lip in the most wanting way possible.

I screeched when she started to rub hard against me; it hurt and I was loving it.

I trembled and lost myself shortly after but she wouldn't stop; the only thing missing is to be tied up but why would-

I groaned when she had me tied up my legs stretched out wide; was she a bucking mind reader?

She isn't doing anything to me; what is wrong with her?

I strain against my restraints trying to lessen the strain on my legs; so much for having those healed anytime soon.

She bit me, hard between my thighs.

I screamed when she started pressing into me with all her strength.

It was painful and I just moaned and groaned wanting more.

I let out a piercing scream making a mess beyond anything Vinyl had ever done.

She laid on top of me and I smiled dreamily and then I blushed "you're cute when you scream."

I was trying to move but the bonds wouldn't let me "are you going to let me go?"

She just laughed and then pressed a hoof between my thighs, hard.

I couldn't breath for a long time and when air filled my lungs I screamed feeling lust welling in my chest the harder and longer she pressed "V-v-v-v-v-vinyl!" she smiled down at me with a hungry grin.

I squirmed and moaned "what is it love?" is she toying with me?

I bit my lip trying to hold back a moan excited by this "c-could you s-s-stop? t-that hurts" instead of stoping she pressed against my belly with a free hoof.

I made another mess lost in the moment only able to moan and plead for it to stop.

Eventually she had her fun and untied me; it was a relief because I wasn't sure how long I could have lasted past that.

She was just holding me softly "w-what was that Vinyl?"

She laughed before whispering in my ear "something you'll never lead" I huffed mumbling that I could.

I had fought seven Discordlings and I still wasn't close to beating Vinyl in bed "and why not?"

I tensed once her tail was between my thighs "you can't be as mean as I."

I squirmed but she let her tail stay "d-d-don't" I try to push her tail away.

She won't let me and grabs my legs refusing to let me use them "s-stop."

A shiver goes through my body "see what I mean?" I huffed and mumbled if I wanted to I could "oh? am I being to nice?" I shook my head franticly still sore.

I didn't get a brake though because in short order I was tied up tighter than before.

I whined as she was trying to force a scream out from my lips; I'm not going to Vinyl.

She bites me hard between the thighs and I scream in pain "that hurts Vinyl!" she smiles and pulls away; what is going though that head of yours Vinyl?

She leans into me with a hoof between my thighs pressing hard; I was trembling.

Her breath is warm on my face when she talks "that's the point Octy."

My eyes go wide and I try to scream while she puts all the strength she can into her hoof.

Is she trying to make me bleed?! I whimper finding no pleasure in her game.

"S-s-s-stop! You're hurting me Vinyl!" I only groan as she puts another hoof between my thighs; hard "w-where are you Vinyl?" I could only feel her trying to make me bleed.

The pain ends as she suddenly cradles me as if I were a filly who just had her first nightmare "a-are you o-okay Octy?"

I can hear the worry but can barely answer with a pitiful whimper "no" she holds me closer and my coat starts to get wet from her tears.

I try to cuddle closer but I'm trembling to bad; she was to rough… my legs will never heal at this rate…

"Octy, we- we need to get you blood…" she was distant and I wanted to say I didn't need any but a coughing fit stole my voice.

She leads me outside in search for blood; please don't let me hurt anypony Luna.

Unraveling a Mystery

Once back to our apartment I cracked open my mystery; the black book bound with leather; pure white pages greeted me and I can feel how giddy it's making me.

Slowly my surroundings disappear from my mind as I focus on the pages under my nose; a long forgotten language.

A word phrase keeps showing out in the first few pages "Blood Hunters," I don't find much on these creatures though my deciphering of the text; just the same thing over and over again being retold by different ponies.

There are two of them according to the text; a brother and sister of sorts who need blood to keep their never-ending life going.

These "feedings" as they are called are said to create servants if it doesn't kill the poor souls they will walk the earth for the remainder of their lives seeking out new victims for them to feed from.

Their are only faint conversations of how to hunt them only saying they like to rest in a place they call sanctuary but they don't quite know what that is for these blood hunters.

I can hear faint movement from Derpy as she raids the kitchen for a snack of some kind.

I can feel her gaze on my furrowed brow and shortly after she is gone - "to find a Blood Hunter one must be a tortured soul" - this thought runs through my head over and over again.

Do these creatures really exist outside of myth? Are they really blood thirsty or misunderstood? this is turing into one really good mystery.

I finish the book and lay it down.

My ears perk up "Derpy?" no response.

I push my aching body up from the coach.

"Where are you Derpy?" still no response

I start searching the apartment.

An open door; it's been broken.

I walk into the kitchen and stop dead still.

Broken dishes, ruined food, and something red; please just be hot sauce.

I examine the red and my wish is not fulfilled; I don't know who's blood though.

I frown as I continue to search the kitchen for a clue; another mystery…

I picked up this card from the ground and stared down at the words.

"Need a rest? Why not come to Manehattan's finest? The Lost Parlor Salon" I winced.

This is no mere coincidence; to downtown Manehattan then.

I grab a scarf on my way out to fight of the chill on the streets.

What will be at the salon?

Who Could That Be?

Her hooves hold me closer but not close enough as moans fill the room.

Peppermint is on my nose as I'm taken; I can only try to hold out for Lyra.

She lacks drinking ability but she makes up with it in bed.

My jaw clenches as I hold back my mess; why are you so good Lyra?

I squirm as she gets going faster and my control starts to fade; nothing but her toy.

My ear is nipped and I moan long and loud making a mess.

She smiles down to me laying on top "you're getting better Bonnie" I flushed and grumbled something I didn't catch; she only smiled wider "who knows maybe someday you'll out last me, or at least- sudden knocking on the door - we both struggle to our feet yelling out "just a minute!"

Our movements are in synch.

We're not in the safety of Pony Ville anymore.

Who is at the other side of the door?

We groan as we hit the floor "ouch!" we fumble but eventually are up.

We are bowled over as we open the door.

I stare up in shock "Vinyl? what are you…" then I see the pony that is resting limply on her back "what did you do?" no response as she puts her bleeding marefriend on the coach "why are your hooves bloody, Vinyl?!" still nothing; she always does this to her lovers, this is the only time the poor mare has lived.

I was about to rip her head off and the tension vibrating from my body alerted Vinyl and she dodged but only the rip; she let me land the hard kick to her jaw and let me pin her on the ground demanding an answer.

"I- I um we um…" - she's trembling under my hooves and I feel a short pang of sorrow - "it doesn't matter!" - tears rolling from her eyes now; she truly regrets this one - "I need help Bon Bon," I couldn't help but snort at that one.

"Just like old times?" I said nothing and found my medical kit but a hoof on mine stopped me cold.

"She's like me" I shuttered at that thought; Octavia's a vampire? but then all the odd things that Octavia had started to do came to my mind; the new glasses, the slang, the slightly paler coat…

I smacked her hard and then I bucked her across the floor into a wall "of course you did!" - I was actually snarling - "you always do what you want, I haven't turned anypony. The Crimson twins never wanted this curse to be shared and you know that!" I pounced and started trying to rip her to shreds.

I was torn from Vinyl though.

Lyra was pinning me to the ground a look of worry obviously on her face; how are you so bucking strong Lyra?'

"You need to calm down!" -slap!- "will someone explain" -my cheek burns from the slap- "what is going on?"

I grumbled but once let go off and pulled Vinyl to her hunches "Vinyl here is a vampire" -I give her a dark glare as I say my words- "as am I" Lyra only rolled her eyes at this.

"I already know that Bonnie" -she must have seen the surprise on my face- "you can't keep bite marks a secret" -she tilts her neck to me and I blush; sure enough bite marks- "it feels good you know?"

I shake my head "those were love bites though…" she didn't really care; I cursed under my breath before speaking "Octavia's hurt, now normally any kind of blood would help but" -I jab Vinyl's side hard- "somepony decided to play rough" -I want to rip her horn off so badly- "so I was wondering if you would-" she raised a hoof to my mouth.

"Sure why not?" -I tried to explain to her it wasn't going to be a love bite- "how bad can it be?" I kept trying but even after letting her know that she could be bedridden for a long time she just said "let's just do this already."

I screamed when she pulled the dying Octavia's mouth to her neck and was instantly drawn into a death grip- "you never ever ever let a dying vampire near your throat" -I was frantic and in sobs at the look on my Lyra's face; pure agony- "you're bucking mad Lyra!" -and then Vinyl started stroking Octavia's mane with soothing words- "what are you doing Vinyl?!" -no answer and I nearly hit her before she moves the bite somewhere less fatal; somewhere that it would only turn her now.

I was in a panic and couldn't do anything to help so Vinyl was the one who started to tend to her injuries as my mind fell back into memory.

I'm trotting down the streets of Manehattan wrapped in rags to fight the chill of winter that has fallen upon the streets; I'm also trying to stay off of the radar of anypony nearby.

A chuckle from behind; just another junkie riding out his addiction.

A rambling drunk; just trying to find his way home to his sick kids.

Then a hoof in my face; now I've been found.

I scramble trying to get away from the stallion that is advancing on me- "don't be afraid little one" -I knew not to listen and turned going at a full gallop hearing his hoof steps behind me; I'm dead if he catches me.

I try to scream for help but his hoof finds my muzzle and covers it; I wasn't fast enough to save my skin…

I whimper as I'm dragged to the shadows of the ally; nopony cares that a filly has been captured.

I whine as I'm shoved against a wall a hoof on my belly- "you're a cute one" -I tense knowing that I'm going to die.

A scream catches in my throat as his head lands in my lap; a bleeding lap making my belly red.

The body is shoved aside and I see my savor; a mare with a crimson coat is there.

"Do you need help little one" the voice is soothing and I can only find myself nodding.

My mind goes blank aside from the sounds of our hoof steps- "it's horrendous what happens on these streets" -she leads me down the streets like a mother walking with her child- "one pony can't watch over everything" -her voice a pleasant drone- "but I do what I can."

"Why?" my voice has an edge to it I don't recognize, it's to childlike and innocent.

"No pony should suffer out there," -she seems so sad- "especially children" -a pair of sturdy oak doors; a church perhaps?- "it's not much but this is a safe haven" -I hug her for the gift that she has given to me; she's hesitant and takes a long time to hug me in return.

I slept the night in a bedroom for once, and on a bed too.

When I woke up a filly was on the bed right next to me and I could feel something sticky on my hooves.

I lift one to my muzzle so I can take a sniff.

I recoil because of the stench and must have woken the little colt- "why am I still in Canterlot?" -I blinked, confused.

He couldn't be no younger than I and he had the purest white coat I had ever seen as well as electric blue hair; he also had a vaguely feminine voice.

I flushed when he- er she looked at me.

Then I recoiled seeing the rusty stain on her belly "w-what is that?" I panicked and all she did was yawn; I nearly screamed seeing a pair of fangs.

I looked down afraid of what I would see; I sighed relieved seeing no wounds.

She looked tired but somehow was also able to express curiosity while wearing a pair of sunglasses "do I know you?" - I shook my head - "did Crimson Verse find you on the streets?" my muzzle scrunched while I thought.

"Mare with a black mane and red coat?" - a nod of yes - "ya, how did you know?"

She only shrugged before looking down "what happened?" she was more confused than scared; my eyes went wide when I figured out what it was.

"T-that's blood!" she didn't care and just got off and I thought she was going to die; but nothing was wrong…

I run for a door.

I can't open it.

"Are you okay?" she sounds confused; probably just a trick.

I nearly scream as she steps towards me.

Her hoof touches mine; I almost black out.

I fall forward once she helps me with the door "do you need some help?"

I shake my head and she only shrugs before leaving while mumbling about feeling like she was shot.

Once I convinced myself to move I came out into a banquet hall where Crimson Verse was talking with a stallion that looked similar to herself; even the cuttie marks look similar.

"You know how I feel about this" - he sounds mad - "I approve of protecting on the streets but to-" he looked at me "-we will continue this latter" and with that he left as if in a rush.

I walked absently- "are you okay little one" -I stumble in the direction of Crimson Verse.

"Was that your father?" -she only laughed and shook her head- "who was it then?"

"That is my tsun-dere brother" - I cocked my head confused - "he goes though mood swings at the drop of a hat" -she just leads me down the halls very friendly- "are you enjoying your stay?"

I'm taken aback at how worn-down this place was "ya, just a bit overwhelming is all" -something clicks in my head- "are there any other fillies around?"

She only gave me a soft smile "only one right now, she had a bit of a arg…" -a long pause- "accident so to speak" -any attempt to ask was ignored- "she's probably in the kitchen right now, want to pay her a visit?"

I didn't really have a choice and I nearly screamed once I walked into the kitchen; what is in her mouth?!

I turn to run.

I trip on the car cause of a rabbit.

I screamed seeing where I was falling.

My hooves are trembling as I look down; a kitchen knife is through my heart.

I try to move but can't, try to scream but my voice is gone, and then I try to run as the filly in front of me advances licking her lips.

"Back down Vinyl" -the voice of honey again- "you do not want to hurt this filly, return to your meal" -I tremble as she comes closer with her sad eyes- "I never found out you name little one…" My adrenaline and eyes start to fall.

A hoof softly caresses the wound- "this could hurt a little" -what could… a scream rips through my throat in pain.

I nearly pass out as the blade slides out of my chest "only a bit?" - and then the pain sinks in - "w-why did you pull it out?" -my body starts to writhe- "that was the only thing-" I started coughing blood and shortly after passed out.

When I woke up a strange taste was in my mouth; something like coppery.

I stretched and winced at a sharp pain in my chest- "how could you do that twice in the same day?!" -I look down and see the bandages- "they're just fillies sister," -such a soft voice- "why do they have to share our curse?" such a sad and soft voice…

A feeble laugh in response "a curse is better than death dear brother," -death?- "a manic pony shot the first… and her… she panicked seeing the first's first feeding" -a quiver had entered her voice- "a knife was on the ground and when she…" -sobs start to escape her- "she…" she couldn't bring herself to say it.

"I understand Verse," -such a gentle voice- "I have to go now" -such a sad and gentle voice- "you know how I" -a pause for thought- "change, around new vampires" my heart stopped, suddenly the gentle and kind voice also laced with malice.

"I know brother," -her voice meek- "we shall see you in a year then?" -no reply- "are you going to go back to that antique store?" her voice is so hallow.

"I won't, there is no plan" he sounded like he was distracted and then I was gone.

A mumbling for minutes, the words start to sink in "are you okay Bonnie?" -I shake my head waking up- "are you there?" I shake my head and sit up.

"W-what?" I was embraced in a feeble hug that I could barely return myself "are you doing okay Lyra?" she can barely answer, in the end I just take her to a place that she can rest; besides the panting Octavia, but at least she's breathing better.

Vinyl stares at the ground "why did you change her, Vinyl? I shuttered after saying it.

A voice we weren't expecting spoke "Bonnie huh? cute… I… was nearly killed you know?" -even as badly injured as she was her voice was beautifully calm- "how does this effect my mind?" -no one had an answer.

"I… don't know Octy… Bon Bon?" -I grunted in question- "you sounded like Crimson Ink used to…" it was on both of our minds.

"I know… he's still out there somewhere you know?"

A meek reply was my only response "I know… so is Crimson Verse…"

We were both silent hearing this and just went to comfort our lovers with the thoughts of wanting to find our… family.

Memories

Slight movements from Vinyl wake me as if something was weighing down on her mind.

I fall back asleep still healing front eh injuries that Vinyl had inflicted when she had gotten to rough; I still shutter at the memory.

Some kind of arguing wakes me up- "do these ponies ever sleep?" -I roll over grumbling about being woken up early again; I can never fall back asleep after waking.

"Mom! for the last time I didn't take those from Tavi! -that got me moving- "why were you even doing my clothes?" -I pulled myself up and went to the commotion-

"Last time I checked you didn't have anything so- I flushed when I walked in and saw what was going on- "so lacy" I tried to sneak out but it was to late "Octavia dear, could you take the time to tell me whose these belong to?"

"Those?" -I was pretending not to know what I was looking at- "what am I looking at again? oh do you two hear that?" -head shakes of no- "I think that's my alarm clock, I must be off to practice for the concert tomorrow."

I was almost out of the door when Vinyl spoke up "I thought we were going to Canterlot Gardens today" I nearly hit my face for that one; I was asked again and embarrassed answered that they were mind.

I only had them because of a dare and never got around to getting rid of them; thought that one day with that special somepony it could be a lot of fun.

I hid them as soon as I could and grabbed my Cello case.

Hours had pasted before we had finished walking around Canterlot Gardens and had sat down to eat; something was weighing down on my mind "Vinyl?"

She looked at me from the other side of the table- "ya?" -my nerves were shot long before I got to asking the question on my mind.

"So umm about last night" -my heart pounds as if furious- "what happened after we got home?" she just kind of laughed at my question; she had such a sweet laugh.

"Last night? what didn't we do? well first we had ate all of the stuff in the fridge" -I shot her a look of disbelief- "you had the munchies, must have been because of how much you drank. Anyway after that I ended up crawling to bed" -oh good, I didn't- "and you crawled in right after" -or not- "and from there we tried everything you could think of" -the color drained from my face- "did everything shy of bondage."

I squeaked at that then looked around nervous somepony had heard her "i-is that why my um, garments were um-" she put a hoof to my lips.

"Yes," -she winked- "you're quite naughty too" -I flushed at that-

"What? I never would- she slid her hoof down to my chest causing me to flinch.

"It's nothing to be ashamed of" -a short laugh- "I mean I, am, the sexiest pony in Canterlot" -I rolled my eyes at that one- "must've fallen for my looks."

I went to open my mouth to speak but her lips covered mine; what are you doing Vinyl?!

A soft moan escapes as I force myself to push her away- "what in the world are you doing" -why was that so hard to do?- "I can't" -my voice sounds pitiful- "what will others think?" -nothing was going right- "this can't" -this hurts- "be happening" -it sounds like a plea more than a regret- "what's happening to me?"

That moment I gathered my things and ran; ran until I was breathless and alone.

I was in a garden; the little hidden area of the gardens I used to practice when I was a filly.

"I haven't seen you in a while kid" the grounds keeper; always reminded me of my father "did you bring your Cello today?" I shrugged it off my back with a meek smile.

"Yes" it was hard to keep the sorrow from chocking my words "just for practice."

It doesn't sound like it, what's wrong?" I shook my head unsure what to say.

"It doesn't matter" he sat in front of me "no it's not… sigh… I think I'm in love… with a mare… a bucking mare and DJ! me? in love with a mare?! it doesn't make any sense! I was raised a proper lady, a lady not a stallion… I can't be in love with a mare, it just doesn't work at all… gah!"

I continued to rant and he let me, let me swear and then let me sit in silence for a moment "does gender really matter for the ones we love?" he left me to sit in silence; I needed it.

I pulled my Cello from my case and readied the bow.

I brought the bow down in a rush of sound, I was playing faster than I had ever done before in my life; I went even faster as the music swept me away like my first performance. The melody is all I know, my heart is my music; it rises and falls as my anger and hope fight back and forth all the while I continue to play.

My eyes are closed; I don't need them.

The Cello is all I know; I can feel the sound vibrating through my body as the strings are racked with my bow.

I drop the bow and my breathing is fast and I sense more than I had while playing; the scent of flowers and sound of the wind.

Also clapping.

When I open my eyes slowly I'm a bit short on breath.

My heart swells as my body tenses.

The clapping continues from the surprise guest "without a doubt the best thing you have ever played" my jaw just drops as I look on.

"Vinyl?" -my limbs seem heavy- "is that you?" -I can barely set my Cello down- "how did you?" -my body isn't working anymore- "why are you?" -I fall forward- "when did you? -I just lay there unsure why I'm suddenly so weak.

She has a tender grip when she pulls me up- "I listened for the sound of a Cello" she pulls me up with a smile "let's get you home then?" -I nodded and she got me home with my Cello.

I'm laying in bed now; cuddled up to Vinyl Scratch.

A sudden crash wakes me from my dreams.

I try to get up but can only look around- "what happened? -in front of me is a crimson unicorn- "hello?" -he turns and I catch a view of his cuttie mark; a quill with a red C- "do I know you?" -with that he disappears.

I look down at my hooves.

Crimson..?

Finding Lost Ones

My scarf is doing little against the cold air around me as if trying to keep me away from my search.

I have always hatted Manehattan streets; full of wrong turns and dead ends.

Once or twice I had tripped over a junkie or wino indulging in their own personal sins.

I didn't let them slow me down though.

I stumble and trip over broken boards and a few signs on my way to a salon that isn't to far off into the distance.

I can't see anything through the windows and diced I have no choice but to brake in; an easy task for most earth ponies; I'm not most earth ponies.

I set myself ready to kick.

Thump!

Not even a budge.

Thump! Thump!

A slight budge.

Thump!

Still not getting anywhere.

Thump! Creeeek….

It's getting there.

Crash!

I make my way inside through the destroyed door cautious; that clue couldn't have been left on accedant.

A sudden fall through the floor.

"Omph!" my body hits the ground hard.

I try to look around but a bright light blinds me.

Once the light fades I take a loo around; I'm in the center of something out of a science fiction novel.

As I look around I see ponies strapped to tables at different angles; living ponies.

I start to panic because not a single one isn't in pain; it's to much to witness.

I try to set these ponies free but I can't reach any of them.

They're all behind glass walls.

I gallop down the halls hoping to find a way to help.

I find nothing.

I stumble through a door and can feel my heart stop.

"Derpy!"

I rush forward and hit my head on a wall of glass.

I watch my steps going to Derpy this time.

A hoof presses over my mouth stifling a slight scream.

I buck back in a panic.

Clang!

"Ouch!"

My foot had hit something hard, something metallic.

I squirm as I'm being dragged by my mane.

I'm then thrown into the brightly lit room.

I push myself up as my eyes are trying to adjust to the sudden light.

My heart stops again when it does.

"Derpy? are you okay?" she's on her side; hopefully just asleep.

She rolls over and looks at me; eyes straight "Whooves? I don't know what happened, I was getting myself a muffin and then I was hit and-" she started to panic and I held her close.

I just whispered nothings into her ear in an attempt to ease her from the panic; only halfway believing the words coming from my mouth.

I needed to get a look at my surroundings; I didn't like what I was seeing.

Ponies were in these rooms just like ours; just a cube with glass around them.

To my horror these ponies were taken one by one from the rooms and screams were heard and then they would be returned; covered in what looks like blood.

As I scanned the rooms a stallion that looked thin as if he was starved.

His eyes were a pure crimson like his coat; they were the only things I could see because of his bonds.

They flashed with primal fear as the door to his cell was opened; I tried and couldn't pry my eyes from the scene that was playing out in front of me.

This stallion can barely move because of his bonds.

This stallion with the crimson eyes.

This, blood hunter?

I shiver and my jaw drops.

Five guards went in- even bound as much as he was he could fight- none of them came out.

The guards were nothing more than steel and wires.

I looked to the stallion to be surprised because he had broken from his locks.

I got my first good look at him now; he had black hair down to his jaw line and something was poking out from under his hair; a horn? that's a unicorn?

I heard the hiss of pistons and our cell door opened.

Two guards walked in and I made myself a shield for Derpy "you will, not, hurt her!"

Steps are taken.

I take my own; surprised them.

I turn to sen a sharp kick to the head of one; sparks and wires start flying.

I spin and buck back catching the next one in the stomach.

Squish!

I try not to gag at the sound.

Hack! Cough!

I have to protect Derpy.

Cough!

I force myself to buck back again.

Crack! Crash!

I force myself to look at what I did.

I lost my stomach; in front of me was a mare; a green pegasus with green hair.

She wasn't moving.

I saw red start to go down her coat.

I shuttered, and lost my stomach again "w-what did I just do?"

I heard the hiss of pistons again and turned around; this time a creature was looking at me; the last of discordlings… but this one looked more pony than any of the others had.

"So you killed on of my guards?" -it's voice was a lot more fluent than the last one had been- "is that little pony back there that important?"' -my body tenses- "that you can, kill," -I almost strike out- "one of the best ponies I have?"

"What do you want? -I feel venom in my veins knowing what could happen if I don't deal with him- "what use do I hold?"

"Use?" -it cackles in a way that reminds me of the notorious Queen Chrsalis- "what use is a little pony to somepony like me?" -you aren't a pony- "why a test subject of course!" -that made me twitch- "one that I can use to unravel this mystery that is pony kind."

I fall back to create a shield for Derpy- "don't you dar touch a feather of hers" -he walks forward with a wicked grin- "I said back off!" -he strikes me but I will not bow- "I said stay away" -pain blurs my vision- "I will, not, let you put a hoof on her!" -I strike forward but he just shrugs me away.

"Who are you to tell me what I can and can't do?" -I had actually laughed at that one- "what's so funny?!"

I pull myself up weakly- "me?" -I limp over to Derpy- "I'm Dr. Whooves" -I then stand at the ready for a strike- "and so far I haven't failed to defeat your kind" -I lunge forward pulling the syringe from my scarf; just like the one I used on the last discordling.

He jumps back.

I charge towards him.

Crack!

My ears are ringing.

Where did it go?!

I spin around.

My heart stops "try anything and I will kill her."

I drop down to my hunches "that's a good boy."

It comes forward and kicks me; hard.

I just take every kick and hits; I can't in danger Derpy.

I have a broken nose and two black eyes when they drag me out.

Lights flash around me; then my vision goes in and out.

I'm then thrown into a room, but I can't see anything.

I'm strapped down to a table and I can hear something.

It's the sound of two, knives, scrapping together.

Back to the Source

The streets are cold and dark just like the night that Crimson Verse had saved my life; my goal was a simple one; grab Dr. Whooves so that we could all have a meeting.

The door was wide open when I got there; signs of struggle were everywhere.

I started to search for clues in hopes of finding out where he could have gone to; the only thing I found of use was a black leather bound book.

I opened the cover and a receipt fell to the ground; I looked down to it and read.

It was to an antique store that I remembered from my childhood.

I galloped as fast as my legs could take me; my destination being home.

I ran inside and grabbed Vinyl "come with me" I locked the door but before I could run off Vinyl stopped me.

"What do you need me to come with you for Bonnie?" -I smacked her- "ow! what was that for?!"

"Only Lyra can call me that Vinyl" I looked around and started to question if I should really leave Lyra and Octavia along? sure Lyra was in decent condition but still…

I drag Vinyl along and she finally just goes along with it; I can see the shop ahead and look back to Vinyl "that's why" I can see the smile; she had nothing but happy memories about this place.

"I haven't been here since that night before I was adopted" -she had relaxed; probably just surrounded by her memories- "I wonder if'n old Ink Jot is still here?"

I pushed through the door and a familiar voice rang out from the back "I'll be out in a moment!"

I sat down and pulled the receipt from my saddle bag so I could look it over- "One leather bound book; 2 bits" -she had always sold the things she had here for cheep when we were fillies.

When she saw use she nearly ran "Vinyl? Bon Bon?! It's been ages!" Vinyl did run to her and they embraced each other in a hug; I kind of just stand here and watch.

After a while they both looked at me "might I ask the reason you guys here?" her speech hasn't improved that much…

"I'm looking for a friend and all I have to point in the direction of where he has gone is a receipt in a book he got here" -the both looked at me with the same confused look- "his room was a mess, there must have been a struggle."

You not change much Bon Bon, still serious" -she started to pace around- "he and his friend came by, he got the book before leaving and seemed excited" -I tried to speak up but was just interrupted- "gave his friend a necklace, as gife" -again I tried to speak but was interrupted- "learn many things from Crimson Ink when he work here, he gave me something case I needed to find somepony" -I was struggling to understand what she was saying but she spoke so fast and her sentences were always so choppy.

She disappeared quickly and Vinyl turned to me "she said that Crimson Ink had showed her a few things and that she had given a necklace to Derpy and that she thinks it might be able to help us find Derpy and hopefully Dr. Whooves" I nodded; she was always good at understanding what anypony was saying.

Ink Jot came out and was holding a necklace with an odd looking pendant on the end "this help, Crimson Ink show, it glow when near other" I smiled softly as I took it, even gave her a short hug "still glad you came."

I walked out so that Vinyl could give here own goodbyes; I examined the pendant; it was a platinum locket with elegant white markings in the center of an upside down V; I turned hearing Vinyl come and the V faced the way you expect a V to point.

I looked at Vinyl and smiled "it looks like it gives you rough directions" I started to turn in a circle and watched as the V changed directions.

I was struggling to walk with it so Vinyl levitated it with her magic.

In a few moments we had ended up on the front stairs of a ran down salon that we both had to stop because of something off in the air; I turned to her "I need you to go and get Octavia, I think that we will need her if she isn't to the point that she can't."

"But what is she can't? and if she can we can't just Lyra unprotected in Manehattan" as she spoke my mind started to work.

"Is there anyone that you can trust here?" she nodded slightly "who is it?"

"Neon Lights should be able to, his gig gets over in a few minutes" -I was about to ask her a question but she just continued to talk- "he'll understand, he's a lot like us but a bit different."

She left before I could ask anything else.

With that I turned to the salon and took my first hoof step forward.

The door looks like it was broken in.

I take a few more steps inside.

Crack!

And my world goes black.

All My Friends Are Lab Rats

I'm speaking with a stallion that has a red coat and black hair; he's very familiar; for some reason I'm angry at him.

I throw a chair a the wall with my magic; I scream something but I can't understand the words.

I'm being shaken.

What is going on?

"Come on Octi it's important!" I hate being woken up; especially when I'm having these dreams.

I eventually pulled myself up and took a double take at seeing Neon Lights "um Vinyl" -he looks as confused as I feel- "why is Neon Lights here?"

She helps me up explaining "I asked him to watch Lyra so she can heal safely" -I was trying to speak but she keeps cutting me off- "don't worry, he knows" -I raised an eyebrow- "he's similar to us" she is nearly dragging me out by the neck a pendant smacking into my face.

"Ow! why are you wearing a pendant??" -I was a bit frustrated with her- "Vinyl?" -she levitated it onto my neck and I started to walk besides her- "what's wrong Vinyl?"

Her speech is quick- "Whooves and Derpy are missing and we need your help" -I try to speak but she starts galloping away and I had to give chaise.

We pass a few mares selling themselves, a few winos, and a junkie or two.

I nearly stumble over a drunkard laying on the pavement.

Vinyl jumps over a passing mare.

I jump just barely clearing her.

She dashes down an ally and I follow suit ignoring the seedy types that are trying to sell an assortment of illegal things and some trying to sell petty things; one even tried to sell us the location of a cursed castle before we had passed.

I was panting in my chaise; I nearly cried when Vinyl came to a stop.

A salon that has seen some better days.

"Are you sure the" something caught my eye and when I looked down the pendant was glowing white "-what in the-" I was pulled aside so we were hiding in the shadows.

A pair of stallions were carrying out a mare.

She must be my age and was a pegasus; she wasn't moving.

They threw her into the dumpster that we were hiding behind.

After the sound of hoof steps were gone I poked my head out and whispered "they're gone Vinyl" I walked out and looked towards the doors in front of use.

Cautious I walked forward "where did they go?" I walked in with Vinyl close by and suddenly we fell down.

I landed on something soft "ow! Octi you need to lose some weight!" I smacked her for that one.

"I'll have you know that I am at a good weight" I looked around and went silent.

"It's cool in here" I give Vinyl a look of astonishment "what? it looks like something off of a Skrillex album" a look of confusion this time- "he creates Dubstep" -I'm still clueless- "the music like I make" -oh.

I take a few steps still a little in shook; around me are ponies strapped up and the scent of blood feeling the building "do you smell that Vinyl?" something else was in the air against the scent of blood.

"What" -I go wide eyed seeing all the mayhem that is around me- "is that horrid smell" no answer but something was making my vision go black.

Suddenly I was in blackness.

I roll over in bed and look at a crimson stallion in front of me "you've grown so old Verse."

I don't look any older than the day I reached adulthood, nor has my brother; my poor clinically insane brother.

"I don't look any older than the day I had reached adulthood, you know the day we met father for the first time" -I was in a bad mood today- "that is not the smartest thing you-"

He interrupts me quickly "I mean along the lines of what we just went through" -my body shivers at the memory along- "I do feel older" -his eyebrow furls like it always does when he has an internal argument- "and at least your scars are only cosmetic" -my gaze drops feeling bad for my injured and insane brother "you still have sanity…"

"You still have sanity brother," -I always try to make him see the truth of the matter- "and at least you don't have to limp around for as long" -I still feel bitter that his injuries are just cosmetic.

His eyebrow furls again "that pare is true" his eyes go black and I know what is about to happen "but at least you have the strong magic!" -his hatred for my magic levels again- "you don't have to deal with the damned voices!" -one of the things he thinks magic would help with- "you also sleep a hell of a lot better than I!" -I was ready for a fight on that one.

"I don't sleep at all! I am, always watching. Watching over you, the fillies, and my… my…" -I looks and see my black metal necklace- "last memories of childhood…" the anger in his eyes still flares.

"Memories? that's what your so hell bet to-" I snap in that moment; I lunge forward and pin him down my eye twitching.

"Yes! memories of when protecting people was just a game!" -I'm shaking in rage- "you argue with a voice in your bucking head, I fight with myself! I… I fight with myself every single bucking moment… every second of everyday bucking day that I'm breathing" -I punk his muzzle hard and fall back in a fit- "you get rest, you don't watch over anypony like I have to."

My vision fades and I fall forward.

I can feel a body under me; moving.

I open my eyes to see what is going on; I'm on Vinyl's back a bit limp "where is Bon Bon?" I squirm a bit getting my body working.

Vinyl lets me walk on my own power.

"W-what happened? where am I?" -I look around with a groan as I remember- "never mind. I know exactly where we are…" I look down and see that the pendant glowing an upside down V on it "um Vinyl what's with-" I shove a hoof in my mouth so I don't scream out "Derpy..?" in front of us is our dear friend strapped to a table thrashing about in fear.

We exchange looks and then look to Derpy "where's Whooves gone to?"

My heart pounds with our question.

I have really bad feelings about this…

Everything goes black again.

The Return of Blood Hunters

I'm not used to sneaking around; doesn't take to much to get around Lyra when she's asleep and it also-

A scream that was as if it were muffled tore my attention.

I ran in search of the source and witnessed something from nightmares; bleeding from the mouth and his eyes I saw Dr. Whooves.

He was trying to scream and his eyes were wide then it stopped.

The screaming returned louder now that his mouth was open; it was nothing but agony.

In the corner I caught sight of a white pegasus with her face in hooves; why is she in there?

A loud splitting sound and my attention returns to the scene at hand; Dr. Whooves bending over backwards at an angle he could nip his own tail.

He started screaming louder.

I can't hear anything but the sound of him screaming.

He face is covered in blood.

I feel tears in my eyes.

His hair is stained red with damp blood.

Crack!

A silence filled the room and I couldn't look anymore.

I turned back though, I had to see.

His ribs were poking out once I looked.

I turned my head quickly already having seen to much.

More blood had been pouring down his body.

I looked for that pegasus but she was nowhere to be seen.

I couldn't look anymore.

I ran.

I turned a corner.

My heart stopped.

I cried; I wasn't sure if it was from joy or sorrow.

Crimson Ink was trying to bust his way through a cell door; it was a strong door to hold him back, especially in a fit of rage.

I had to act quick.

I rammed head first into the door.

Crack!

I was stunned.

I had barely got that right.

I bashed it again; another perfect hit.

I stumbled.

I was dazed and ended up falling to the ground gasping slightly.

He smashed into the door three more times.

A roar rang out all of a sudden "I am going to kill everyone of you!" he was furious and stomping his hooves in frustration.

I was trying to stay quiet but my breathing had gotten worse.

I was coughing when he was calm enough to help.

His eyes held so much sorrow, a nice contrast to the fury they could hold.

"Bon Bon? is that you?" I was only able to nod.

He struggled but he was able to get me up with his magic and then propped me up against him "let's get you-" I was shaky but touched his shoulder.

"I-" a coughing fit stopped me "I need to save a friend…" I was shaky but pointed down the hall as my voice disappeared; he nodded and helped me limp to my destination.

His magic was stronger than the last time I saw it; he was able to rip the door off the hinges and get Dr. Whooves so he could walk along with us.

Whooves looked to me and I could see the pain in his eyes; what little I could see past the blood at least.

He looked at me and Ink- "I need to get Derpy" -his voice was harsh.

He ran down the hall despite the pain that you could see in each step.

I followed as best I could leaning heavily on Crimson Ink's frame; he really doesn't seem like a unicorn.

Whooves with his ribs still sticking out and bleeding bucked the door open.

Inside the cell was Derpy; Whooves didn't even stop before she was on his back.

We ran out of the room and down the hallway headed for the exit; shortly after I saw Vinyl but where was Octavia?

I looked a little closer and saw she was unconscious on Vinyl's back.

The entrance was staring us in the face.

We saw it start to close and rushed.

Whooves and Derpy made it out.

Followed by Crimson Ink and myself.

I turned to watch for Octavia and Vinyl.

The door slammed but Octavia and Vinyl never emerged from the other side.

With whatever had trapped them.

Someone Elses Dreams

He was in the worst mood; the worst that I had ever seen.

He was furious, probably because of me needing to turn those two fillies into one of our own kind.

I was doing my best to keep him for striking out; he was extremely mad "why would you go and do that?"

I side step a strike quickly, in short order I also blasé a wave of magic at his head; I may have powerful magic but it was subjective at best when brother is in this mood.

He slumped forward a bit but ended up just turning around; fury was burning in his eyes; the worst thing though was the voice- "you ruined their lives" -a voice that wasn't his own; all rough edges.

I wince but force myself to shove magic at him; one that is so strong I fall forward.

He falls forward; at least that's what he should have done; instreaed he charges straight at me his head down.

I try to jump out of the way but my legs won't work; I'm stuck between a wall and my breath.

Crack!

I feel my rips brake and my brother's horn through my lung.

I coughed up blood but wouldn't scream; I knew better when he wasn't in control.

I bucked forward glancing his head.

I bucked again knocking him back and out cold.

I fell to the ground gasping.

I felt like my chest was on fire as I healed my wounds.

I was able to get up thankfully; the wound was still tender.

I forced some magic into my brother so I could be sure he wouldn't suffer any more mind damage.

When he gets back up I can see anger is still in his eyes.

Then his eyes saw me panting; and the blood.

He looked away at that moment; ashamed of what he had done.

"Crimson Ink, w-we have two new hunters…" he looked mad but he couldn't bring himself to yell at me.

"How could you do that twice, in the same day?" -I knew he was made, he just wanted a good reason- "they're just fillies" -his voice was soft like velvet despite the anger- "why must they share our curse?" I knew he was sad, his voice was laced witht he emotion.

I had to laugh; it wasn't strong though "a curse is better than death dear brother," -I took a deep breath- "a manic pony had shot the first…" -I motioned my head to the door way where the cream colored earth pony was just walking through- "and her…" -I let out a frustrated sigh- "she panicked seeing the first one's first feeding" -my body was quivering as I spoke- "a knife was on the ground and when she…" -I had started to sob- "she…" I just couldn't finish the thought; she had been covered in blood.

Even when he was enraged his voice was gentle "I understand Verse" -as long as it was actually him in control- "you know I…" a pause for thought- "change, around new vampires" -his voice had a tinge of malice in it; he was trying to keep it out.

"I know brother," -my voice is meek- "we shall see you in a year then?" -he wasn't answering me- are you going to go back to that antique store?" I could feel how hallow I was starting to become.

"I won't, there is no plan" he seems distracted by something, I knew this sign and just step towards him "I will but you can't come around, but after they have been for a month send them to the store" I nodded having no clue what he was thinking; that was sooner than the last ones.

"Of course dear brother" with that he left me to help the little filly who had wandered out on her own "come o little one, let's go and meet your new sister" she gives me a soft smile; she was probably able to tell that mine was fake.

I spent a long time getting to know these two; they weren't quite sure of me at first.

I wake with a start because of a sudden pain; when I could see what it was Vinyl was on top of me, gasping for air "what happened…" something tells me that I shouldn't say her actual name "Crescendo?" she gets up and then helps me up in return, we both turned to this unknown threat; a Discordling, this one was different somehow but I can't quite but my hoof on it.

"Well this thing tried to kill us but" -I could hear the smug tease coming- "it didn't count on somepony being so squishy like you Tenor" I felt my jaw nearly drop; she actually took the hint for once.

It started to walk towards me; I had my back against the door ready "you two are lucky to be alive" I flashed a wicked grin with a plan forming in my head, I could tell Vinyl was thinking along the same lines "whatever should I do with the two of you?"

I kicked off from the wall in a dive at the discordlingj; it dodged me but it wasn't expecting Vinyl diving at it with her horn.

She pushes, struggling to press it against the wall; when she hit the wall I bucked straight at it's head, after a bright red splash covered the wall.

We both back up with slight smiles seeing this corpse "we did it! the final one is dead!" we started to dance around like foals.

"Dead?" we both freeze hearing the voice "I think that's a bit of an exaggeration. At the most I would say injured" -we are both nervous exchanging glances- "now was it Tenor?" I could only nod dumbly "would you come her a moment?" -I just stare at him- "hmmm stronger than most are" -an idea came to my mind- "come her Tenor."

I walk forward as if I'm on strings "yes sir" I make my voice seem forced.

I'm look straight at him "you're a good looking mare" -a shiver goes down my spine- "now Crescendo, I need you stay still" -she nods dumbly; still taking way to many hints- "now how about a kiss Tenor?" my eyes went wide as he leans forward.

I'll give him a kiss just not the kind he wants; I bite his neck hard and shaking him around a little bit before throwing him towards Vinyl.

He flies through the air directly at Vinyl, she has her horn ready to meet his chest.

Vinyl lifted and then slammed it down onto the ground.

I jumped up.

I came down on it's head; hard.

A sharp crack and then a gasp of shock.

Not taking any chances now.

I check behind Vinyl's ear and smile softly "glad you kept it."

I grabbed the syringe that was there.

I took it and drived it down into it's eye.

I push the syringe letting the fluid enter it's body.

It starts to convulse under my hooves.

I start to trot away leaving the wreathing creature behind.

"Vinyl?" she made a grunt for me to continue "how did you know I didn't want to use are real names?" she just smiles at me.

"Oh you know me Octi, I'm just perceptive" I had to laugh at that one "what's so damn funny?"

I looked her straight on "you didn't know did you Vinyl Scratch?"

She shied away so I decided to hug her.

Pain shot through my side, it was so sudden I had to cry out in shock.

She was to my side quickly.

Then everything was black.
*****

It rose up from the ground as if nothing more than a husk.

It was only able to take extremely weak steps; they were lurching steps.

It was slowly making it's way to a room.

The evil glen in his eye could have been in part of the liquid still dripping from it.

"If I must leave, I'll give them an early birthday present" a glass plane in it's sight.

Behind it a green button.

A punch.

Crack!

Laughter brakes out as the button is pressed.

The last laugh for once was the one of evil.

Find The Remains

There was a bottle of booze waiting for me when I got off stage that night; if it hadn't been for how much I sweated on that stage I'd have opened it.

Just another night as a singer in Manehatten.

I used my magic to wrap a jacket over my dress; I was gone the next moment.

I hatted the gig, I have the job so I can hide in plain sight though; especially when most would consider you a monster.

The streets are cold as I walk along; they don't really effect me anymore but I can feel a slight chill.

I was to tired to open the door like always so I just used my magic on the lock.

Once inside I let out a slight cry both Swift and Synth were gone; no mater how many times I walk in without one of them greeting me I panic.

I need to get this damned dress off before I can try and start searching.

No matter how many times or different ways I feel like a whore taking this dress off.

Celestia knows I've done some unsavory things since Ink and I had split up, especially when I needed to pay the rent before getting the gig at the club.

I threw it on the table yet again; I hate this goddamned routine and how bitter it has made me.

I don't want to struggle with the pipes or hot water tonight and just use my magic to clean.

Knock! Knock! Knock!

I was roused from my idle thoughts by the sound, who could that be? I wasn't expecting Tone until at the earliest in a week.

I grabbed a random hoodie and pulled it on so it could conceal my face; to many enemies to risk it.

"Hello?" I only slightly opened the door; I was confused to see two mares that were looking around as if being fallowed "can I help you two?"

One was a white unicorn that was wearing a hoodie so all I could see was her nose, the other a gray earth pony that was wearing a black dress that was a lot more tasteful then my work dress.

Sudden she fell forward, I cursed myself for my reflex when I caught her with my magic.

"Octy! are you okay?" I almost lost the magic hearing the voice.

I pulled this Octy in and in a sharp whisper "get in here Vinyl Scratch!" the door was locked seconds later.

I levitated the hurt one to the couch to give her a better look over; she didn't look like she was hurt just a few scratches and a small cut.

I turned and sure enough Vinyl Scratch was there pulling her hood down "is she okay?" I could have asked her the same question.

I looked her over and back to Octy and back once more "are you two lovers?" I was doing a simple scan with my magic to see if there was anything wrong.

Vinyl had flushed and was stammering "um uh k-kinda j-j-just l-like sisters and um we um" I held a hoof up.

"Calm down little one" I pause; I haven't said that in what feels like forever "I've had my share like her" she blushed further at that one but didn't seem as awkward about it.

I wasn't finding much, I checked to see her teeth and was surprised to see fangs; another hunter? "did you do this Vinyl?"

She couldn't answer but she nodded meekly when I looked at her "so what's her name?"

She was a bit shy when she did get to answering "her name's Octavia and um she plays the Cello and um I've known her for five-ish years" I fell back when I tried to scan her mind "are you okay?!"

I got up and blinked for a bit "ya, I need some silence now; she went quite as I went about healing this little one's mind.

Moments later I was using my magic to make tea and then coffee as she was healing from the effort I put through her mind.

She roused up after a while and I took a look at her; she was cute, no older than Vinyl and her cutie was a Treble Cleft; a slight reminder of work today.

"What brings you two here anyway? thought you were living Canterlot and-" Vinyl gave me such a look I went silent and then levitated the coffee over to me; I could tell I was going to need it.

"We found Crimson Ink" -my heart just went still- "he's barely alive though."

I dropped the coffee pot.

I was frantic when I turned to Vinyl "barely alive?! where?! take me to him!" I stumble around and can't seem to find my hoodie or something to wear that would keep me from being obvious.

"We'll take you to him" I followed behind without a second thought; nearly forgot to lock the door.

I was surprised to see how empty the streets were "Vinyl?" -she looked back as I spoke- "how did you even know where to find me? I don't really look like I used to."

"It's Octi, she um" -she was making a strange gesture with one of her hooves- "has I'm been…" she went silent seeming baffled "what is it again Octi?"

She was quite as if looking for somepony watching her "images as if I was reliving some pony's life" I nodded to myself slightly.

"Any ideas how you came to have these visions?" Vinyl looked away as if she were ashamed.

"Well" she took a moment thinking "it had started after Vinyl and I had um" -she flushed- "were um together and she had um gotten um a bit um rough so to say" -I wasn't fallowing anything she was spouting- "she had um almost killed me so um when I was saved, well maybe there was some kind of magic that was idle on her body from the time when you were in the same area for a prolonged time, and somehow it fused with my subconscious" -she has a quick mind- then while I was dreaming it would cause me to relive some of your memories."

I got the idea of what she meant "well if it keeps happening just let me know, I might be able to get it to them to stop."

We walked on further, after what felt like hours we finally reached an apartment and they ushered me inside; I was greeted with the sight of three ponies.

One a gray pegasus and the other a cream colored earth pony; this one looked really familiar,

I was pulled into a sudden hug and the scent of her mane brought it back to me "is that you Bon Bon? you've grown up" we didn't get much time though as a wet sounding cough drew my attention.

I could only see the gray pegasus leaning over the coach "don't move Whooves" her eyes were wet with tears.

I went over and knew that I will ever be able to forget this sight; a brown stallion was laying there with ribs sticking out and blood seeming to run freely from his eyes.

"What happened to you little one?" I began to try healing him using my magic and recoiled slightly feeling his pain.

It hurt but I had him breathing regular again, I couldn't move his ribs any though…

I could only wrap them for him, to keep them from getting caught or hit wrong; he'd at least be able to rest without pain.

I was grasped in a sudden hug by the gray pegasus "thank you!" I just softly pet her back, my body felt weak but I could't rest I had one more to look after… my brother.

"Where's Ink?" they pointed me to a door "thank you" with that I went to the door.

Then I knocked.

The Suffering of the Writer

In a daze I drag myself up from the bed feeling as if I had a fever, something I haven't had since I was a child, an eon ago.

I stretch and a sharp pain shoots down my side; when I look the only thing I see is the red of my coat; it does look dingy but I was just imprisoned and malnourished for seven years.

I had been rescued by Bon Bon; one of the little fillies that had to be changed to keep her alive; I believe this is the one Verse had seen take a knife.

Something that my sister would consider a good memory but I only think is horrible experience.

Our kind live as long as Alicorns but they can be vegetarians; another reason why we are hunted for these centuries.

We were born at the same time, not even seconds later; I was born as if an earth pony with magic to lift a pen only more when in dire need.

Writing is an escape; an escape from my thoughts… and Mist.

Mist is the other voice, other mind; the one that has drawn attention to me and my sister when we have had to feed.

When writing he never bothers me; I'm not sure why but I'm not going to look any kind of gift pony in the mouth.

I stumble, struggling to keep from falling down.

I gasp as a familiar whisper fills my head "what the hell are you doing out there Inks?"

Mist is awake now; ready to move "why are you on the ground."

A sound rings from the other side of the door "Ink… brother are you in there? um it's Verse… Vinyl found me… said you were in need of support" her voice sounds broken.

"Hehehe haven't seen that one in ages" I tried to scream but it only came out as a groan of pain; I nearly cried seeing Verse press into the room.

A muffled scream escapes her and soon she is kneeling at my side "brother… you- you're ribs… there sticking out…" I felt my eyes widen at her statement.

I started to panic my body feeling as if it had burst into flames; I can't control my body but it's moving "I'll take care of this Inks" no! you can't Mist.

In horror my body starts to change; this has never happened before.

My coat is becoming icy to match my new hair "what are you doing Mist?!" I get no reply and I watch as the cuttie mark becomes as if mist.

My sister looks terrified scrambling backwards "Ink?" I was trying to scream seeing ribs bursting out.

My sister has her back to the wall and I'll I can do is watch; watch myself advance.

"It's been awhile Versie" -she knows that name well- "how have things been since you ran away?" -I shuttered or had tried to at least; this isn't going to end well- "I learned quite a bit afterwords, perhaps I should show you… it was in the fighting rings after all."

I wanted to scream to warn somepony but I couldn't; I can only watch and pray to Celestia that she learned a few of her own tricks.

She had been stuck at a club while we were fighting in an underground league; at best I was only beaten to a pulp.

She was quick thankfully, and had strong magic; something that I have always hated about her.

She dodged the swings aimed for her face.

A wave magic shoots at me.

It misses my side.

I deliver a swift back kick.

Crack!

I want to cry but can't; why am I losing control?

She's limping, did Mist brake her leg?

I want to scream desperately as I feel my head lowering for a head butt.

She kicks my head and I see stars; at least she's alive.

Crash!

"Who the buck are you?!"

Something hard hits my side and then my back.

My body gasps as I see blood on the floor.

I feel a pulling at the corner of my mouth, and then the grin Mist loves so much.

Something has changed; everything outside has become like the times of my birth.

"See you fillies later?" my body charges forward and in moments the glass is braking around me, and finally galloping on the stone path.

The castle looms in the distance a dark structure seeming to grow taller with every step.

It looks like my childhood home on the inside though; same colors, the broken suit of arm and a bedroom "this looks an awful like your old room had Inks."

Silently I agreed with him.

Author Stuff

For the most part it's obvious there is a sequel to this, and that it will be the final in this series but this world will most likely live on through other stories and a tumblr ask page. Still trying to figure out tumblr and that so it might still be a while before anything is actually up there besides sketches.

Anyway I'll probably forget about these author pages/chapters and just stick to my blog where I can type what's on my mind and not at the end of these stories.

The Tainted is going to be another like this but it will try to fuse some of the elements of Things Are Alive into this one with (SPOILER) the introduction of Crimson Ink and Mist. As you have probably read the last chapter you'll start to understand what I mean; it'll be a lot like Twilight was during the story.

A lot more on the deep story will probably come out during The Tainted but there will still be quite a few little treats to come in other stories and maybe even characters that we all know and love.

Hope you enjoyed the story and I'll keep everyone up to date on the final story in the trilogy.

Bar Hoping

Lyra jumps on the table singing and playing her harp to a drinking song she just made up.

I flushed as she proceeded to try to make out with me; normally I would welcome it but one we're in public, two she's drunk and third we're supposed to be looking for a Dicord-something-or-other and having no luck.

I nipped her lip and she frowned before going back to drinking; she get's a little too excited when drunk.

Normally I would be perfectly fine with her drinking but we aren't even in Ponyville; we're in Manehatten and I think it's gotten to her head or maybe it was just because Octavia had us checking the bars.

The worst part of this is I barely have a buzz and I've already drank twice as much as Lyra; at first I had thought someone was spiking her drink but I could tell any difference when I took a sip.

My mind wanders to my candy shop back in Ponyville; I hope the Cutie Mark Crusaders are handing it well, especially with Pinkie Pie about to throw a party for Rainbow Dash.

I went wide eyed seeing Lyra about to tackle somepony from behind; if I hadn't bit her tail and pulled her back it could have been a disaster.

She landed on top of me and then planted an extremely wet and messy kiss on my lips; she was in a fit of lust and rubbing against me.

I was eventually able to push her off of me the crowd not helping any just egging Lyra on.

I forced her to sit on her hunches and started to put my notebook into my saddle bag; asking for anymore information wouldn't happen while Lyra was drunk.

"Miss would you happen to be Bon Bon?" I was stunned a bit but nodded "from Ponyville?" again I nodded starting to pull Lyra up "I just want to thank you for the quality candy that we buy from you to sell at our store.

I was biting Lyra's neck and dragging but through my mouthful I said it wasn't a big deal and when she asked to walk with me for a bit I didn't disagree and shortly after we were walking down the streets talking; thankfully Lyra had calmed down enough to walk, a little to close but better.

"Me? Well my friend is working at a club here for a month or two and we're just here for support" she asked who was working my candy shop while I'm here "a few close friends who I trust to run the store."

Before we parted ways she had asked for my autograph; I was stunned at that but gave it to her anyway.

I started to apologize franticly while blushing silently cursing Lyra at the same time; she had vomited on the poor mare's hooves. She hadn't seemed to mind and just left.

I dragged Lyra inside by her mane annoyed and she whined when I made her stay in the bathroom by the toilet; while waiting for the others to get back I passed out.

The Taint

I felt like nothing had changed at all; I was still strapped to the table.

The only difference is that I'm now covered in cuts that are sticky with blood; fresh blood.

Something was also blurring my vision; what it could be I didn't know.

A hoof wipes my face with a rag; she has a voice of velvet "you're going to be one of those ponies."

"One of those ponies?" I shivered seeing that the rag was now red.

"You bled from only two places during the test" -this pony was obviously sorrow filled- "the first one was your mouth and the second well…"

She went silent swallowing a lump in her throat "your eyes" she was staring at me as if trying to detach herself from the situation; I started to examine her.

She was a pegasus whit a pure white coat, she had some rust colored patches; probably blood, and her hair was two toned with black and red, I couldn't get a look at her eyes or cuttie mark however.

"They… you know… ruined him…" her head flipped up; her face was nothing but manic now and her eyes were the color of fresh blood "he had such pretty eyes! but that thing… that thing changed took their shine" she broke into a fit of manic laughter.

In that moment I started to panic; that voice of velvet was gone replaced; replaced by the sound of a synthesizer over her voice.

She was pacing now; her expression and voice were going back and froth from the velvet and the synthesized voice; I at least got a look at her cuttie mark; three music notes with tails below.

She was ranting to herself "he isn't like Note, only has pretty eyes" -she looked at me with sorrow in her eyes- "why do you have to have pretty eyes? it makes my bucking deal nearly impossible to hold" -her eyes and grin were manic now- "but my brother needs me to do this" -a light rips from her throat as if she were possessed- "you'll at least have the pretty eyes after."

I was to stunned to scream as she pulled out a knife from a table and held it in her hoof "what are-" I never got to finish my thoughts; she drives the knife right into my left hoof and starts to pace around, pressing different buttons and pulling a few levers.

Soon she is inserting different syringes and needles into my body; she puts a final one right above my heart "you have a soft coat just like Tone does" -the sorrow is back to her voice and eyes; I silently plea for it to stop- "he got away thankfully, he did so much for the two of us…" -she went manic again and went over to a glowing lever.

She was smiling at me manic, her hoof was twitching; sorrow returned to her voice "this might hurt a little bit…" the manic side returned "a lot in reality."

She pulled the lever and pain shot down my spine.

I wish I would black out but my adrenaline was to high.

I needed to scream but my jaw wouldn't open.