Lightbringer of the darkness

Chapters

Chapter I. - Prologue
Chapter II. - The arrival
Chapter III. - Beginning of a new life
Chapter IV. - Questions and answers
Chapter V. - Tricks of the trade

Chapter I. - Prologue

I was taking a stroll in the a night as I have been doing every day for 12 years now. I have no intention to stay home with my parents. It became too much to bear. I have been on my own for too much time already and I don't know if this living hell will ever end.

At least I have one thing that always makes me smile, no matter how depressed I am. My little pony is the only thing that keeps my sanity, it's my only remedy for the pain and misery I have to suffer through. It just makes my heart ache that the world I see in there is far out of my reach. I will never be able to enjoy the happy life they have. No. I'm stuck here forever with an alcoholic father and a drug addicted mother.

My life has always been like this since I was a little kid. I can't even remember the last time I was truly happy. All my happy thougths and memories about my family had faded away years ago. Now, all that remain are the gray and blank everydays. When I was young I never imagined that my life would end up like this, but it has.

Living on the streets has taught me how to fend for myself and stay out of trouble but you never know what happens next day. You might not even live to see the tomorrow. I thought about all this every day of my life, well... since my father started beating my mother. The problem became worse when I tried to defend my mother from him. What my mother saw that day, she never forgot about it. The look on my face when I attacked my own father, blinded by my rage. I almost killed him that night. At that point, I swore to myself, I'm never going to interfere in their life, nor take part in it. From that point I have been living alone, not caring about them anymore. I still live in my parent's house, but I rarely turn up there before 2 AM. Every day is just the same. I wake up, go to school and when I'm finished there, I hang out in the streets till late night. Alone. Always alone. I never had any real friends. Who I could call friends, turned against me over the years, now I am all by myself. I don't care anymore, I got used to it. But what am I going to do with my life? This can't go on like this forever.

I was delved into my own thoughts so deeply, that at first I didn't notice the stranger in the alley to my left. He was covered in a long black cloak and a hood hid his face from the flickering light of the lamp. My instincts kicked in and I turned my attention to him, waiting for an attack, but he didn't move. Instead, he slowly turned to face me, and walked towards my direction.

"Isn't it a bit late for a kid like you to be still on the streets?" he asked.

"I have been living on the streets for 10 years, you don't have to tell me what I should do. Who are you and what do you want from me?" I asked the hooded stranger as I glared at him.

"Oh, I'm just a simple man, you don't have to answer to me if you don't want to," said the stranger while walking towards me.

"Then why do you even care about me old man?"

"Beacause I know what you want deep in your soul, and I am someone, who can make it come true."

As he said this, he raised his hands before himself, and a flickering blackish light appeared between his palms. it became brighter as it expanded, and I was shocked by what I saw inside the circle of light. It was Equestria. Ponyville, Canterlot, all the ponies. I couldn't believe what I was seeing.

He looked at me again, his eyes shrouded by the shadow of the black hood covering his face. The light between his hands revealed a little part of his face and I saw that he was grinning at me.

"I can grant you what you seek, Jack."

"How do you know my name? Who are you?"

"Let's say I'm a friend to those in need, and keep it that way for now. I see the doubt in your eyes and I can assure you, what you see is the reality. Everything exists Jack. If you can't find something, you are not looking for it in the right place. But with a little help, everyone can find what they seek."

This was getting a bit suspicious. Even if I believed my eyes, what's the catch? I don't think anyone would simply help someone for free, and how the hell does he know what I wish for? I couldn't think straight. All I could think of was the portal leading to the land of my dreams, and I had the answer to my questions already. I had to make a deal with this guy to get out of this miserable life once and for all. I just had to. I couldn't bear this lifestyle anymore.

"So you say you can actually get me to Equestria?" I asked the man with a suspicious look.

"Indeed Jack. As I mentioned before, everything exists, even Equestria. It's only coincidence that you can see a show about the true world itself. However the world you see in the television and the one I can allow you to travel to, might differ in a few things." He stopped smiling and took up a more serious look. "But it is up to you to choose between two lives."

I never thought this will happen to me once. I never thought about having an opportunity like this. If this guy asked somebody else,they probably would have thought he was crazy but for me, the possibilities seemed real enough. I didn't have anything more to lose than I already have. I made my decision.

"What do you ask of me in return, if I choose to accept your 'offer'?"

"Ahh, time will tell that my young friend. I myself do not know the consecquences yet. All I can tell you is that you will have to carry a burden for the rest of your life. A gift of both power and responsibility. I have to warn you though, the portal I can create is one way only. If you decide to travle to Equestria, you will have no means to return. Choose now... but choose wisely."

A gift of both power and responsiblity. What could that mean? Looks like I will have to find that out on my own, if I want to leave this life behind, and I'll have no choice but to stay. Do I really want to risk everything? I never thought I will reconsider this again, since this stranger made the offer, but I have made my decision and I will not change my mind. Not this time. This time I have to act.

"I have made up my mind, i accept your offer. I have nothing more to lose and I don't care about what the consequences will be."

"Oh, I see you're pretty determined, Jack. I like your attitude. Now then, I will perform a short ritual, and then open a full scale portal." The little portal between his palms disappeared and he lowered his left hand. A dark, flame like aura glowed on his right hand, and he channeled it into his middle and index finger. He came closer, still remaining in silence. "After I finish this little ritual, your existence will be deleted from this world, you won't have to worry about your past."

"All right. I don't want to remember any of it anyway. I don't care what happens to my past."

"Are you ready then?" he asked me while raising his right hand up to my forehead.

I sighed and closed my eyes. "Yes." He then touched my forehead with his fingers, and I felt like something was flowing through me, something powerful. After a few seconds he took his hand away from me, and I shook myself a bit as a chill ran down my spine. "That was the strangest feeling I've ever had. Yet, it felt satisfying at the same time."

He grinned once more, and and the blackish light appeared again, this time on his left hand. He pointed to the left, and the same kind of portal opened next to him, this time in it's full size. "I guess this is where we part ways Jack. I wish you luck in your new life."

"Umm, thanks... I guess." I walked towards the portal but before I could enter Equestria, the stranger turned to me and put his hand on my shoulder.

"Oh, and Jack, don't be afraid of your newfound power." He stepped back and turned around, then he walked away, into the black of the night.

My newfound power? What does that supposed to mean? Well, I only have one way to find out. I turned to the portal again. I could see Equestria through the shimmering light, and it made me wonder what will happen when I pass through it. It was time for me to finally leave this place once and for all. I slowly raised my hand and tried to touch what was in front of me. My hand passed right through the light with a tingling sensation. I still couldn't believe that I was this close to my dreams. My heart was pounding faster than ever and I slowly walked forward, stepping into the blinding light of the portal.

My new life begins, in Equestria...

Chapter II. - The arrival

My arrival wasn't as smooth as I had imagined. Getting thrown out of magical gateways won't be my favourite means of travel any time soon. I felt really dizzy and sick as I was lying on the ground face down. Soon I felt my strength return to me and I stood up wobbling. I had a bad headache from the landing and it was a bit hard to focus on anything for more than few than a few seconds. "Note to self, never do this again. EVER." I muttered to myself as I held my hand against my head.

I took some time to look around where I was, though I couldn't really make it out. I must be somewhere around the borders of Ponyville. If I'm not mistaken that there must be the Everfree Forest, and if so i'm not far away. I started walking through the plains, admiring the view as I went. Everything is so green and peaceful. This world is so much different than what I'm used to. No pollution, no vehicles, no noise. I was happy that I finally found a place I could actually enjoy living in. Happy? That word couldn't explain what I felt. I felt as if my all my emotions drained over the years had returned into me in a few minutes.

I stopped for a moment and took a deep breath of the fresh air. I could smell the green grass in the wind, the beatiuful scent of the flowers and then suddenly something drew my attention away. I heard a scream, and soon after that the howling of wolves. "Wait. I'm near the Everfree Forest, that must mean... ooooh shit. Timberwolves!" Someone must be in trouble. I have to go and check it out. I turned to the source of the sound and ran towards it. Soon I could see the borders of the forest and I saw that I was correct. I saw someone running from two timberwolves. I had to find a way to help.

I ran towards them and I suddenly felt something I've never had. I never was this fast in my entire life. Come to think of it, I've been running for a couple of minutes already, why am I not feeling tired yet? Maybe this is what the old man meant back then, but it's not the time to think about this. I switched to sprinting speed. I could feel I was much faster than a normal human being. I ran about three times faster than the speed i could achieve in my world. As I was getting closer and closer I noticed something. That hat. It's Applejack!

My thoughts were spinning around in my head like a roller coaster. If the old man's ritual inreased my speed I wonder if it affected my strength as well. Well, now I've got a chance to find out. I was still running but with every second I got closer and closer, then I was finally in range. With a shout, I raised my hand and I punched the first timberwolf in my sight with all the force I could gather up. I thought because of the fact that timberwolves are from wood, my hand would shatter like glass dropped on the floor, but the opposite happened. I heard a loud crack and the timberwolf's skull shattered to pieces and it's limbs flew in several directions from the hit. I could barely stop myself and I almost tripped over because of my speed.

I turned to face the other timberwolf. We were staring at each other for a few seconds, both of us waiting for the other to make a move. The timberwolf was growling angrily, as it was growing impatient. Then it charged at me with a loud growl. I dodged it's bites one by one. It wasn't hard, I have learned how to dodge knife attacks in my world, and my increased speed and agility even made it easier for me. But I can't keep up evading attacks forever, I had to retaliate somehow. The wolf charged at me again but this time I stood my ground and as it tried to bite me, I grabbed it's jaws and strained every muscle to pry them open. There were sounds of cracking wood and finally the timberwolf's skull yielded and broke in half, and it's body fell to the ground lifeless.

Now I felt a bit exhausted, but all in all that turned out better than I thought it would. I turned around to see if Applejack was all right, but what I saw surprised me. She wasn't like what I saw in the show. She had human-like attributes, like hands but she still resembled a pony. I guess this is what the old man meant when he said the world I saw could be different from this. He was right.

Applejack was in a half-lying position on her back, she must have tripped over when she saw me fight off the timberwolves. I extended my hand to help her up, she grabbed it and stood up.

"Are you all right?" I asked her while looking for injuries.

"Ah'm fine thanks. Ah don't know who ya or... rather what ya are, but thank ya kindly for savin' mah flank."

"Don't mention it, I just saw you were in trouble, and I rushed here to help you. Name's Jack by the way." I introduced myself as I smiled at her. "And I'm from a distant world you might not even know about, but I can explain everything later, I think we should head to a safer place."

"Ah agree with ya. Ah'm -

"Applejack, i know."

"How'd ya know me? Ah can't recall ah've met ya before, but ah guess ya can start explainin' on da - WATCH OUT!"

I heard the beating of wooden paws as I turned around, but it was already too late. A third timberwolf charged out of the woods and it bit my left arm. I screamed up in pain and I aimed a kick at it's front leg. The kicked reached it's target and the timberwolf's leg crumbled under itself, pulling it's body down, along with it's head. It was still holding my arm, and when it fell, it tore chunks of flesh out of my arm, but eventually it's grip loosened on me and I could get away. There were several deep wounds on my arm and it was bleeding heavily.

I turned around instantly and ran towards Applejack, grabbing her and throwing her on my shoulder, and I ran as fast as my legs allowed me.

I heard the worried voice of Applejack as I was running away from the forest. "Where exactly are ya takin' me, pardner?"

"Any place that's safer than this..."

Chapter III. - Beginning of a new life

I've been running for a few minutes when I looked over my shoulder to check if we were still being followed by timberwolves, but there was nothing, just the empty plains with the Everfree Forest far in the background. I slowed down and stopped near a tree, then I gently put Applejack down. "I think we... argh - I groaned as my left arm was twitching and shaking because of the pain - lost them." I walked over to the tree and sat down, leaning my back against it.

"Sugarcube, your arm!" said Applejack with a worried tone in her voice, while kneeling down next to me.

"Uhh... it's... all right, I'll be fine. I've been in worse conditions before." That was true. I almost died once when the gangs on the streets beat me up. I was in hospital for weeks. An arm, a leg, a nose, all broken. Not to mention the internal bleeding caused by the four shattered ribs. This was a scratch compared to that, but still, it hurt like hell.

Applejack frowned at me. "Don'cha be ridiculous! Ya need help. We have ta get ya ta da hospital, ya losin' too much blood." She hooked on to my right arm and helped me up. I slowly raised my hand and looked at it. It was bleeding heavily from wounds covering it, and as I stood there I noticed there was a little puddle of blood near my feet. Applejack was right, I was losing blood too quickly. I looked at Applejack, who was still holding onto me. My vison started getting blurry and my knees wobbled. "Applejack..."

"Yea?"

"You're right, I'll need help. Though... I don't think I'll make it to the hospital." I remained silent for a few seconds. "I just want to tell you, if I... don't make it, it was... great to meet you." After saying these words I didn't have any more strength left in me, the blood loss was getting the better of me. My legs crumbled and when my body started falling, I almost pulled down Applejack with me. I passed out.

"Oh no! Hang in there, ah won't let ya die! Ah'll get ya ta da hospital, we're not far from Ponyville."

Applejack could say anything, it didn't matter anymore, I couldn't hear her. Darkness. That was the only thing I could see. It was all around me. It felt like it the space around me was both full and empty at the same time. It was frightening, yet it seemed like it was tempting me to delve deeper into it. I closed my eyes and embraced the darkness around me, feeling every shadow, becoming one with it. Then I felt a strangely different, but familiar sensation. I felt my strength return to me, but this time it was much more intense. I felt energized, ready to burst, and the darkness around me seeped into my body, merging with me and my consciousness returned.

I opened my eyes and saw Applejack ripping her clothes. She was probably trying to make bandages out of it. I was leaned against the same tree I had sat down next to earlier. I stood up, and I felt a strange and dark power coursing through my body. Applejack was shocked to see that I was surrounded by an aura of dark energy, and my eyes were glowing greenish-black.

I raised my arm in front of me and I saw that the wounds were quickly healing, while they were reeking of the same dark energy that sourrounded me. After a few seconds the aura started to fade, and my eyes returned to their normal color of silver. I clenched my fist. The pain was gone. Could this be connected to my powers? I had to get answers to my questions, but that could wait a little longer.

Applejack just stood there with an open mouth, not moving a muscle.

"What... in da name Celestia are ya?"

She seemed frightened by what she saw, and honestly, I don't blame her. What just happened even scared me.

"I'd be happy if I could answer that question myself. Look, I said I'll lexplain everything but... now I need answers too. All I can tell you is how I got here."

"Well then, let's get goin'. Ya can explain everything on da way. Maybe Twilight can help ya find da answers ya want."

"Acutally, I was thinking the same."

We headed to Ponyville, and as I promised, I told her about what happened to me.

"Ah'm sorry ta hear what ya've been through, life must have been hard for ya."

"Don't be sorry, the past is the past. Anyway, I met someone last night. He was covered in a long black cloak, and he wouldn't state his name. He offered me a chance to travel to Equestria, and I accepted it. He performed some kind of ritual, but I still don't know what he did exactly. When he touched my forehead, I felt like some kind of energy ran through my body. Before he left, he told me not to be afraid of my newfound power but to be honest with you... I don't know if I can do that."

"Ah admit the sight of ya standin' up and healin' over just moments made a chill run down mah spine. It just seemed... unearthly."

As we were going, I slowed down a bit. I was starting to feel exhausted. My strength was fading as quickly as it had returned to me minutes ago. I was stumbling across the plains for a few seconds before I could no longer stand on my own and I fell to my knees. Applejack rushed to me to find out what's wrong.

"Are ya all right sugarcube?" she asked with a worried expression.

"Yeah... I'm fine. I'm just exhausted. I feel like all my strength had been drained from me. I don't know what's happening to me, but I'm sure it's connected to my quick recovery."

"Ah think so too. Can ya walk or should we just rest for a bit?"

"No need for it. I'll be all right"

"Here, hold onto me." She reached down and hooked her arm under mine and helped me to stand up. My legs were still wobbly, and I felt weak like never before.

I tried to put the puzzle together, but the pieces were missing. It was of no use.

"Ive changed my mind"

"Bout what?" asked Applejack curiously.

"About the treatment. I won't go to the hospital, not yet. Not until I have some answers. This could be far more than what normal medical care can cure." I remained silent for a few moments, staring at Ponyville as we got closer and closer to it. "Please, take me to the library! I have to meet Twilight as soon as I can."

Applejack sighed. "Well if that's what ya want..."

After about ten minutes of walking, we reached Ponyville. We could have been faster, but I was too tired to walk at my usual pace. As we went through the town, I recognised lot of places immediately. I was limping alongside Applejack, and if not for her, I would have tripped over several times already. Clearly, my arrival had drawn a lot of attention. The ponies on the streets who were talking or just passing by, all looked at me with a startled look on their faces. I guess that would be the normal reaction, since they probably have never seen a human in their entire life, nor will they besides me.

After a short time, we arrived at the library. It was much bigger than what I had expected. I looked at Applejack.

"Thank you for helping me to get here."

"Ah should be da one to thank ya, after all it was ya who saved me from da timberwolves."

"I just did what I felt right. Anyway, I'm sure you have chores to do around your farm, so I'll just take my leave and thanks again."

"All right sugarcube, ah'll check back later ta see how are ya. See ya later, Pardner!"

"Until then." I smiled at Applejack then limped to the door of the library. I knocked a few times on it and waited for someone, or rather for somepony to answer the door. After a few moments the door opened creakingly and I heard the bored voice of Spike as he opened the large wooden door.

"Yea, how can i hel- WHOA!"

Spike backed off a few steps and tripped over book laying on the floor. I must really be suprising for them, since every time the locals seem me, they are startled or frightened. Spike then proceeded to call Twilight.

"Twilight! I think you should really come down and see this!"

"Ahh, what is it again Spike?" Came Twilight's annoyed voice from the upper level of the library. "I have important research to do, I hope you have a good reason to- "

Her voice cracked when she saw me, but she didn't seem to be afraid, instead she was really curious. It was as much I had expected from her. Twilight Sparkle, Princess Celestia's student who lives for learning. Why wouldn't a pony like her be interested in an outsider from another world? She slowly walked towards me with her mouth open from amusement.

"Who are you? I've never seen something like you before."

"That's because I'm not from this world, Twilight."

The fact that I knew her name only increased her curiosity towards me.

"You know my name?" She asked astonished.

"Indeed, it's a long story. I can explain everything and answer your questions later. I came because I need your help."

Suddenly a shiver went through my body and I had to grab the stile of the door, else I would have dropped to the ground.

"I really don't want to be rude, but may I come in please? I can explain everything inside."

"Ahh, where are my manners? Come in. Spike, please tidy up a bit here, everything is a mess down here."

"Yes ma'am!"

Spike hurried to clear up the mess at full speed while we went inside. I still had a hard time to walk without falling over. We sat down at the table near the window, and Twilight brought some snacks and two mugs of coffee. I explained to her how I got here, how I met Applejack and what happened to me and my wounds.

After I told her everything we remained silent for a minute. All of my thougths were focused on one question: what caused my weakness? It was Twilight who finally broke the silence.

"This is greatly interesting. Your incerased strength, speed and agility must be in connection with magic, that's for sure. The problem is I don't know what kind of magic it is. Could it be... No, that can't be. Nopony has ever practised that kind magic since..."

I didn't say a word, but my expression must have gave away that I was a bit confused. What was she taling about? What type of magic? After a short pause she continued.

"I can't be certain in this matter, not yet. I have to do some research. Spike!"

Spike rushed to us to see what Twilight needs help with.

"I need you to search the library and gather the books I need. I'll need the following books..."

Twilights voice started to become muffled. My head was spinning like the clothes in a washing machine. It was really hard to focus on anything. I felt very dizzy and I almost fell off the chair I was sitting on. I grabbed the corner of the table to regain my balance and I accidentally knocked one of the mugs off the table. The mug broke to pieces with a loud bang, leaving a large puddle of coffee on the floor.

"I'm terribly sorry." I apologised. "I have no strength left in me, I really need to get some rest. Is there a tavern in town where I can stay for the night?"

"Oh you can stay here in the library if that's okay with you. I have a spare bed on the ground floor." She smiled at me and pointed at the large bed on the other side of the library..

"That would be great. I cannot express how thankful I am for both your help and the offered accomodation."

"No problem. I'll write a letter to Princess Celestia and ask for an audiance. I will still do some research on the matter, but she might know more than I do. She also needs to know about your arrival, because we have never seen your kind before and if what you say is true then I'm clueless about what I can do to help you."

"Thank you again, but the audiance with the princess will have to wait for now. The truth is I can barely stand. I have to get some rest, so if you'll excuse me I'll hit the sack."

"I think that would be best too, you look really beat-up. Go and have some rest, it will be good for you."

After the conversation, she turned back and took a bunch of books from spike and put them on her desk. I needed that sleep, BAD. I walked over to the bed and lied down. The bed was really warm and soft, and I fell asleep in seconds.

There was a knock on the door. Twilight went to answer the door to find Applejack standing outside the library.

"Howdy Twilight!"

"Hello Applejack. What can I do for you?

"Ah just came over ta see how our friends is. He seemed very exhausted when we got here."

"Yes he indeed was, he just went to bed."

"Ah think we should introduce him ta da others as well, after he wakes up."

"Yes, but let him rest for now. We'll have time for that later. I still have to write a letter to the princess and tell her about this."

"Ah bet'cha have a lot of work to do, so ah'll just let ya work. Ah'll return ta da farm and finish mah chores."

"All right Applejack, see you later then."

"See ya!"

I started hearing muffled voices. After a few moments my hearing cleared and I heard Twilight's voice and soon after that I realised the others were here as well. I was barely awake, and I tried to remember where exactly I was. My memories started coming together, and I remembered. Ponyville... the library... yes, Twilight offered me to stay at her place.

"Aww, come on Twilight, let's wake him up! I can't throw a welcoming party without the main guest!" said pinkie Pinkie in her usual, over-energetic state.

"Forget about it Pinkie, let him have his rest!" Twilight snapped at Pinkie. "I've already told you what happened to him when he saved AJ."

"But-"

"No buts Pinkie, you'll have to wait till he wakes up."

"There will be no need for that." I said while sitting up on the side of the bed. "I'm awake."

I stood up from the bed, nodding at the group of ponies, who probably gathered here to see me. I cracked my neck a few times and walked over to Twilight.

"How long have I been asleep for?"

Twilight went over to the table and levitated seven mugs of coffee and gave one to each of us.

"Three days."

Three days... What on earth happened to me?

"I hope I'm not bothering you with my stay Twilight."

"Not at all. While you were resting, I have gathered as much infomation as I could regarding your power."

"Did you manage to find something?"

"Not much, since books that contain information on the two most ancient types of magic, dark and light magic, are pretty rare to come by, if not impossible. I've only been able to deduce one thing. If what you said is true, then you must have a strong connection to dark magic and negative energies. Also the princess replied to my letter, and she would like to meet you, whenever you feel ready to do so."

"I see. Thank you very much. At least now I have some clues on what to expect."

I looked around the room and noticed that the other ponies were indeed here to see me. I smiled and took a sip of my coffee.

"Well then, I guess I should introduce myself to you guys as well. I know all of you but you don't know me yet. Well except Twilight and Applejack. My name is Jack and I came from a world very different from this one."

We sat down and I told them the story of my arrival, along with the incident about losing my strength. They all looked worried by hearing what happened.

"Wha'cha going to do now then?" Inquired Rainbow Dash. "Do ya plan on staying?"

"Ineed, I do." I answered with a smile. "I'll go meet Princess Celestia as soon as I can and maybe I'll be able to get some more answers."

Rarity stepped forward, and eyed me up and down.

"My dear, you can't go to meet with a pricess in such attire."

I looked at myself, and realised that my clothes were torn in many places, especially on my left arm. I hadn't paid much attention to it, but she was right, I couldn't show up at the castle in these 'rags'.

"I won't stand this, I will make you some new clothes, after all you have saved our dear Applejack so it's the least I can do."

"Thank you for the offer, but if it's not too much, I'd like to tell you in detail what clothes I'd need."

"Of course dear, come to my boutique and we'll get started."

"Very well. I shall see you guys later then."

I nodded at the ponies and followed Rarity through the door. We soon got to her shop. We went inside, and I was amazed by her designs. I saw them in the show, but they were a lot more beautiful in real life. I took time and described what I wanted the clothes to be like. Rarity looked a bit surprised, but nodded.

"This is a strange design for everyday clothing, but if this is what you really want then I will make it for you. Come to me tomorrow, it will be ready by then."

"So it shall be. I'll be back by tomorrow then, and thank you very much Rarity."

I smiled at Rarity, then I left her shop and headed back to the library. I had to get things arranged before tomorrow, and I still had a lot of things to discuss with Twilight regarding magic. Tomorrow is the day I'll meet the ruler of Equestria, Princess Celestia herself. A shiver went through me at the thought of it, I was both extremely excited and nervous. I wondered what her reaction will be when she gets to see me in person. I imagined my life in Equestria much easier than this, but it just seems life's nothing less than a challange for me, no matter where I go.

Tomorrow is the day I've been waiting for since my arrival. I hope my questions will be answered...

Chapter IV. - Questions and answers

It was still very early in the morning and I couldn't sleep anymore. Since Twilight and Spike were both still asleep, I decided that I'd go for a walk. I walked to the door as silently as I could, opened it and went out. Nopony were on the streets, so I felt relieved a bit. They still couldn't trust me completely.

I've been walking for about an hour or so when I decided to head back to the library. As I arrived to the library, I heard the worried voice of Twilight through the open window.

"But we have to find him! Who knows what might have happened to him?!"

I opened the door and went in, only to find Twilight trotting back and forth in the room.

"Easy there, I'm right here! I just went for a morning walk, no need to worry."

Twilight stopped and sighed in relief.

"See, I told you overreacted." said spike, while munching on a gemstone.

"I guess you're right, Spike. Sorry, I was just a bit worried."

I looked at Twilight and all I could do was smile.

"Don't mention it. I didn't want to wake you guys up when I left, but now that I think about it, I should have left a note at least, so I'm the one who should apologise."

"Well we're square on the matter then. Now, I think it's about time we have breakfast."

"That's a great idea, I'm starving already."

We all sat down at the kitchen table and had our breakfast, along with some coffee. After we finished our meal, I asked Twilight and she agreed to tour me around Ponyville. While we visited places, I questioned her about how magic works in Equestria, and she even taught me some basic theories on some beginner spells, like levitation or flare.

"You could teach me the basics after we come back from Canterlot."

"I don't know. First we'll have to make sure we know where you draw your power from. I don't know for certain what would happen if you used our magic, and the consequences might be grave."

"That's why I wanted to meet the princess as quickly as I could. Now then, you should head back to the library and gather everything you want to bring. I'll go and get my gear from Rarity."

"Okay, let's meet at the train station in half an hour, the train will leave in about an hour."

"See you at the train station then."

I watched as Twilight left then I turned around and headed for Rarity's boutique. A few minutes later I arrived and went to knock on the door. Rarity opened up, and invited me in.

"Well dear, it sure is a strange wear, but I just loved working on it! It nice to have a little change in desinges you know. I have to go upstairs and arrange some things. Your new attire is on that manequin." she pointed at the wooden manequin at the other end of the room.

"I'll be down in a few minutes darling. Go ahead and change your clothes while I'm away."

After she finished speaking she trotted towards the staircase and headed upstairs. I walked up to the manequin. I knew Rarity was one of the best fashion designers, but this even amazed me, and I'm not really fond of fashion. The clohtes were made just as I described them. Dark grey, tight clothing, made from a slightly rougher material to avoid any reflection of light. A pair of black leather boots and gloves along with a black cloak and a hood. This way I won't be recognised as fast, and the less attention, the better.

I took the clothes from the manequin and changed in the changing room. When I came out of the room, Rarity was already downstairs, waiting for me.

"So darling, how do you like your new clothes?"

"I have to say Rarity I knew you were an expert fashion designer, but this is perfect. It's tight, yet still comfortable, and you imagined exactly what I have desribed. I'm out of words, really."

Rarity blushed a bit at the flattering words.

"Thank you my dear, I'm glad you like it. But you've really intrigued me with this design. I wanted to ask you, what made you decide upon this?"

I sighed.

"Well to be honest, ponies don't yet seem to have a accepted me and for now, I'd like to avoid unnecessary attention. I will be harder to recognise in this garment."

"Oh now I see why you chose this particular attire for yourself."

Rarity looked at the clock on the wall and she urged me to leave.

"Oh my, darling look at the time! You must hurry, you can't miss the train, Princess Celestia is waiting for you!"

"Damn! You're right, I wasted too much time, I'm late. I'll have to hurry if I want to catch that train."

I hurried to the door, opened it and looked back at Rarity.

"See you later, and thanks again!"

With that, I closed the door behind me and rushed to the train station. I should be grateful for my increased speed, otherwise I'd have missed the train. I just got there in time to get on it with Twilight. We walked through the wagon until we found an empty cabin and we settled down.

"Try to be faster next time, we almost missed the train."

"Sorry Twilight, I got a little distracted."

"Never mind. What's with this strange clothing anyway? Judging by the clothes you arrived in, this isn't the everyday wear in your world."

"You're right, it's not. If I showed up in clothes like these, people would have thought I was crazy. But here, it's not that rare to see people walk by covered in a cloak."

I stared out through the window into the plains.

"As much as I don't like to admit it, ponies don't trust me yet. I though it would be better to avoid drawing too much attention to myself, especially in a crowded city like Canterlot. These clothes will help a bit in hiding my human aspects, I'll be less recognisable."

We just sat there in silence for a long time. I was staring out into the fields and plains, while Twilight was reading a book as usual. Then she closed the book and looked at me, with a bitter look on her face.

"It just makes me sad whenever I think about that a nice person as yourself, could suffer so much."

I sighed.

"Twilight, your world is much more innocent and childlike than mine. You'd only have to experience the terrible things once, that happen on Earth. I just wish you'll never have to. I wish that you'll never have to live in a world full of crime, abuse, and murder."

"Is it really that bad?"

"It is..."

"I never could have imagined such a terrible world even existed."

"There are a lot of things your kind has never experienced before, and those things a rare to happen over here. And trust me when I say it's for the good." I said with an uncompassionate tone in my voice.

Silence fell upon the cabin again for half an hour. I looked through the window and I noticed the landscape started to change a bit. Elevations and mountains replaced the fields and plains.

Twilight looked up from her book again.

"We're almost there. We'll be in Canterlot in a few minutes."

"That's a good thing to hear. My legs are already numb from all this sitting."

The train arrived at the Canterlot station and we got off. Before I stepped out of the wagon I pulled my hood on my head as much as I could.

"Ready to go then?" she asked me enthusiastically.

"You can count on that."

We walked through the enormous city, and it was like a sightseeing tour. As we walked past famous buildings or something that was worth mentioning, Twilight told me a bit about it or it's history. Old buildings and libraries never amused me, but this time it was different. I enjoyed hearing the stories Twilight told me about them. It went on like this until we reached the gates of the castle. My plan worked, the two of us talking casually and my new clothing had drawn away the attention, and ponies didn't seem to be bothered by me, and it was good this way. We walked up to the gate, and the two guardsponies saluted.

"Good day Miss Sparkle." called one of them.

"Hello!" she answered happily.

"Princess Celestia is expecting you. Is this your... 'guest'?" the guard asked.

"Yes, it's him."

"He's been awfully quiet."

I grinned under the shadow of the hood covering my face.

"If I had something to say I would have done so already." I glared at the guard. "I'm not really talkative..."

The guardsponies eyed me suspiciously, looking for a possible threat. I turned my head to Twilight.

"Shall we move on? We have better things to do than just standing around."

"Oh yes, of course. The princess is waiting." she nodded.

We headed for the castle and I took a last glance at the guards before going past them. We walked through the massive castle doors and Twilight led me through various corridors, some were narrow, others were so large they could have been considered as rooms. Then Twilight looked at me with a questioning look.

"What was that sudden change of behavior at the gate?"

"Sudden? Twilight I may be a nice person, but you are being naïve if you think you already know me well enough to see my true personality. You may see me as someone who is always happy, but that's because you are my friends and you deserve that I treat you the way you treat me. But eventually you'll find that on the inside, I'm still a bitter person, full of sorrow... and that won't change over a few days."

"Then we will try to make you change for months, years if it must be! I want you to be the happy person what you show yourself to be."

"Thank you for your concern Twilight, but if it would be so easy, I'd already be as happy as Pinkie." I turned my head down and sighed. "One's soul tends to get stained after seeing too much cruelty of the world. And believe me when I say... these eyes have already seen too much to just simply forget."

We both remained silent for the rest of the way. After a few minutes of walking and stair climbing, we arrived at a double door. It was decorated with a thin golden plate, that ran around the door, and a large sun was carved into the wood.

Twilight walked up to the door.

"We're here."

She knocked on the door, and a yellowish light flickered around it as it opened up.

"Ah my student, you finally arrived." came Celestia's voice from the inside. "Come in."

Twilight entered the room and I followed her. The room was brightly lit, and it felt warm and welcoming. Shelves and cases dotted the room everywhere, all filled with various books and scrolls. There was an enormous bed on the left with courtains hanging on it's sides and a desk in the middle of the room. And there, behind that desk stood the deity of light and good, Princess Celestia herself.

"I see you've brought your friend with you as well. I wanted to meet him since you mentioned him in your letter." she smiled at Twilight. "Care to introduce us?"

"Yes, of course! Jack, this is the ruler of Equestria, and also my teacher, Princess Celestia."

I stepped forward and knelt down before the goddess of light, putting my right arm across my chest.

"It's an honor to meet you, your highness."

Celestia looked at me and chuckled.

"Stand up, Jack. There's no need for such formalities."

She walked round her desk and came closer.

"I'm happy that you're finally here."

"The pleasure's mine."

"Twilight was very excited when she wrote to me about you."

I looked at Twilight and saw her blushing along with smile on her face and I couldn't help but to chuckle a bit myself.

"Yes indeed, we've gotten along pretty well since we met."

"Now, my student mentioned you're from a distant place."

"That is true, your highness."

I raised my hands and removed the hood from my head that covered my face in shadows. The princess' expression suddenly changed to dead serious and she took a step back.

"Twilight, you didn't mention this."

"Mentioned what?" she asked back with a confused expression.

"This is grim news." she walked up to her desk, arranging papers and quills.

I raised an eyebrow.

"Anyone mind telling me what's going on?"

"What's going on is that your arrival means we are going to suffer."

"What do you mean your highness? I don't understand."

"There was an ancient prophecy. It was long forgotten, but a few years ago some archeologist ponies found an old ruin and recovered ancient scrolls from there. This particular scroll - her horn glowed and she levitated an old parchment in front of us - tells of a prophecy that I hope will stay unredeemed. "It tells of the arrival of an off-worlder, who's soul had been tainted. His appearance will bring suffering to the land, and it's inhabitants."

Twilight raised her voice a bit and she tried to argue with the princess.

"That can't be right princess! He's a good man, I could never imagine he'd hurt anyone."

The princess looked at Twilight with a serious look on her face.

"My dear student, it's not as simple as that. He's not the one who will cause the chaos and madness that will spread throughout the land, but very things that will try to eradicate him from this existence."

I looked at the princess with a questioning look. Now I was really confused. This was getting stranger by the minute. What exactly did she mean by bringing suffering to the land? And something that will try to eradicate me from this existence? I couldn't stop myself from grinnig at this.

Celestia saw it and she immediately knew something was on mind mind. She tried to speak, but I interrupted her before she got a chance.

"Now, you said something will try to eradicate me from this world. Whatever it is, it can try. But I assure you your highness, I'm not going down easily."

Celestia looked at me with a worried expression.

"Let's hope you're right, but first things first. Come and please have a seat."

Twilight and I walked over to the desk and sat down. Celestia arranged a few papers and parchments on her table before continuing.

"I want you to tell me how you got here. All of it, don't miss out a single detail, every bit of information could be important."

"As you wish your highness."

So I did. I told the entire story of my arrival, along with a shortened version of my past in my world. I finished telling my story, and Celestia's expression became dead serious.

"This is grim news. The last pony who could harness the ancient dark magic died a long time ago, and it was for the good. He was too dangerous to be kept alive. He tortured and killed many before we put an end to his dark deeds." she paused for a moment. "A dangerous power dwells within you Jack. You have the ability to tap into the essence of shadow itself, otherwise it would have been impossible to accomplish such a quick regenration. Such power can easily get out of control."

I looked at her and tried to put together what was going on here. The pieces of the puzzle were slowly coming together.

"Well, whatever lies in me, I've been able to control it so far."

"That is because you have not yet tried to use magic. I want to see what happens when you do, that will answer some of my questions too. A very simple spell will suffice. Put out your hand."

And so I did. I raised my right hand before me.

"Now, try to remember what you felt when your strength returned."

I thought back, and remembered exactly what happened. The darkness, the emptyness that filled the space around me. I felt it again, power coursing through my body.

"I feel it, the same energy as the one that made my body regenrate itself." I replied.

"Now try to channel that power into your palm. Imagine a fire burning in your hand, that should help you create the basic fire spell."

I closed my eyes and slowly gathered up the energies in my body and channeled them into my right arm, then into my hand. The picture of a fire. It can't be too hard. I started feeling warmth in my hand. I opened my eyes but what I saw shocked me. I imagined a fire in my mind, just like any normal campfire in our world, but instead of the usual color combinations of orange red and yellow, the small fire between my fingers was black as the night.

Both Celestia and Twilight just stood there, looking at the fire with a scared expression on their faces.

Celestia broke the silence of the room. She took a step back, gazing at the fire.

"The... Black Fire..." her horn glowed with intense light. "Who are you and what is your intention here?!"

"As I said I have no intention of harming anypony now, neither will I have such plans in the future. I've come here to start a new life, one where I don't have to suffer as I did previously. But it looks like... fate has yet to deal me the same cards as before."

I turned my head down and sighed. I clenched my fist, extinguishing the black flame burning in my hand.

"If it's your will to banish or kill me for having the ability to control dark magic, I will accept your punishment, your highness."

The glow from Celestia's horn slowly started to fade away as she realised I meant no threat to them. God how could I mean a threat? I don't even know how to use my power, let alone want to use them against the deity of light.

Celestia turned back and walked to the window of the balcony. She silently stood there for some time before continuing.

"I don't like to admit this, but if you want to survive, and save these lands from destruction, you will have to master the raw power that lies within your very soul."

"And who could I turn to? You said the last pony who used dark magic died long ago."

There was a loud cracking noise as a warp gate opened behind us, accompanied by a familiar raspy voice.

"I can tell you that, my young friend."

That voice... It's him again. I turned back but I was surprised to see that the stranger who sent me here, didn't look human at all. Instead, he looked exactly like the inhabitants of Equestria. The only thing that was the same on him, was his long black cloak.

"I though you were a human." I said questioningly.

"Oh no, my friend. Neither am I a human, nor a pony."

"If you were the one who sent him here, you could have warned us before you did so." Celestia frowned at him.

"Ohh sorry, I tend to forget things every so often." he replied with a grin. "So, I think it's time I introduce myself properly. I'm called The Keeper." he bowed before us. "And as I mentioned a few moments ago, I'm not a simple being like any of you, but the princess already knows that. You see, when magic itself was created, I was born. I am a creation of pure arcane energy, bound to keep the balance of worlds and planes. As for your question, I don't have a permanent form. Whenever I enter a new world, my 'body' materialises, and I take the form of someone like the inhabitants of the world."

"That explains things. What about my power? Why didn't you tell me what lies inside me?"

Celestia bursted out in anger.

"You mean to inform me you DIDN'T tell him he's- "

"A Necromancer?" the Keeper interrupted her. "No, I did not." he said calmly. "I told him the consequences of his choice might be grave, and yet, he still acceted my offer and traveled here."

I looked at the Keeper darkly, and my expression became dead serious.

"If I knew I'd bring destruction to the world I wanted to live in I would have reconsidered your offer. You know, I somehow don't like the future title of 'doombringer of Equestria'."

The keeper raised his hands and gesticulated while he was talking.

"Hold on just there, young one. Were you not listening to me before? I mentioned myself as the being with the responsibility of keeping the balance of the universe. Do you seriously think I'd send you here without a purpose? Although I'm powerful enough to do many things single handedly, I'm strictly forbidden to meddle in the affairs of mortals directly. I however have the power to help those in need in many different ways."

"Then why exactly did you send me here?"

"Everything is written and foretold, my friend. The Baaeli would eventually awaken, with or without your arrival. And I'm just trying to save this world from complete destruction."

"Why did you choose me for all this then?"

"Because of all humans, you are the most powerful."

"I don't understand."

"Then allow me to explain." he grinned. "Back in the old times, hundreds of years ago, all humans were able to use magic, just like you. But as you may see now in your world, it was the same back then. Humans have always craved for power and influence. Their greed only brought doom upon them. I granted them the ability to harness the primal powers, and what did they use it for? he sighed. For waging meaningless wars and bringing death and destruction upon themselves. After long years, I've grown weary of watching them ravage the lands and butcher each other, thus I sealed their Arcanum Gateways, rendering them unable to use any form of magic."

"Then what you did back on Earth..."

"Yes, Jack it's that simple. I've only used a simple spell to break the seal, unlocking your powers. But you will have to master that power. And I know the one who can help you with it."

Celestia frowned at the Keeper while walking up to him.

"You mean to tell me another dark magician exists whom I don't know of?!"

"Indeed, but he's not a magician. Not a simple one at least. Princess, this time please put aside your preconceptions about magic. If you want your land to stay intact, and your suspects alive, you have to trust me on this. Or rather trust Benezal Darkblood. Jack, he is the one you have to seek."

This was getting serious. The fate of a whole kindom was in my very hands. If I fail now, I'm both going to doom Equestria, and dig the grave for my dream to live here. I can't, and I will not allow that to happen.

I got interested in this so called 'magician'. I wonder who he is. Oh well, I will find that out soon enough. It's my only chance to find a way to learn how to use my power properly.

"So, where can I find this 'magician' of yours?" I questioned the Keeper.

"Go and seek him out at the ruins of the old fortress of the Black Talons. Twilight, can you please show him where the fortress is?" he looked at Celestia's student, who was still standing in the middle of the room with an open mouth.

She shook her head, and tried to put the story together in her mind.

"Oh yes! I'll find some maps and determine the location off the fortress."

"Good. Then I shall be on my way. There's no need for me to be here anymore." he looked back at us and grinned. "But I'm fairly certain we'll meet again in the future." he stepped through the warp gate before Celestia could stop him, and the gate closed.

"Ahh! He always slips away without answering my quetions." she said angrily.

I looked at Twilight.

"I think we should get back to Ponyville. If we don't leave, we'll be stuck here for the night, and I'd like to do some research myself on the matters at hand." I took a quick glance at the princess. "If it's not against your plans, your highness."

Celestia sighed and and went over to her desk. She grabbbed a piece of paper and started scribbling something down.

"No jack, it's not. It doesn't matter how much I dislike the idea, the Keeper is right. You'll have to learn how to use that power if we want to stand a chance against the Baaeli."

She finished scribbling down the notes on the paper, and handed it to me.

"Here. Before you return to Ponyville, visit the castle library. I've listed some books that you may find useful. Twilight, you have my permission to enter the private part of the library."

Twilight looked at her mentor with a suprised expression.

"The private part? But isn't that where you keep the-"

"The books that hold information about the ancient forms of magic? Yes." she interrupted her student.

I looked at the princess and bowed.

"We'll be on our way then. Thank you very much for your time, your highness."

The princess smiled back.

"If you have problems, tell Twilight to nofity me. I'll try to help in any way I can."

"Thank you, your highness. Let's go Twilight, we still have much to do."

I pulled my hood on my head again and we headed for the library to pick up the books we needed then we made our way to the train station and got on the train to Ponyville. These next few weeks are going to be hard. I don't know what these Baaeli are, but I won't let them stand in my way, nor let them threaten my new home. I will do whatever it takes to defend Equestria and my new friends, even if it means risking my life to do so...

Chapter V. - Tricks of the trade

On the way back to Ponyville, we discussed a lot of important things about the coming weeks with Twilight. Schedules, plans, ways to research and get information. I have decided to get a job in Ponyville. If I'm goingto stay here, I'll need something to do for a living anyway, and I hope I can be of use to the townsfolk. Maybe they will accept me faster this way.

"So then what are your plans now?" asked Twilight.

"When we get back, I'm going to start reading these books, and learn what I can in the arcane arts. I have to try everything I can to make sure I'm ready for anything that might happen." I scratched my chin while looking at Twilight. "Also I'll have to get a job, I can't live like this, you're doing too much for me already."

She looked at me with a smile and let out a little laugh. "Don't be silly! You are most welcomed to stay at my home, you're not bothering me at all. To be honest, you really intrigue me."

"Still, I can lend a helping hand to the ponies, and maybe that will make them accept me faster."

"Now that you mention it, that might be a good idea after all. If you want you can go and talk to the mayor, I'm sure she can find something to do for you."

"Yea I'll do that tomorrow. "

We remained silent for a few minutes. I knew Twilight was going to ask me many more questions, it was just a matter of time. I was right, she could barely hold her curiosity back. I was getting bored anyway, so I asked her what she wanted to know.

"I see you're holding back some questions Twilight. You don't have to. If there's anything more you want to know, just ask."

She looked at me with a fading smile on her face.

"So you really didn't know anything about all this?"

"No, I did not. We've never found any proof that other parallel worlds like this even existed. Our technology is far more advanced than yours, yet our scientists were not able to make any progress in these matters... and probably for the best. Also, I've read a lot of fantasy books when I was younger, and I always wanted to believe magic existed. Seems like I wasn't far from the truth." I sighed. "But still... not everything is a fairytale."

"No, not at all. But if we all work together, I believe there is no obstacle we can't overcome."

"Twi, I can't help but to smile. I always liked your enthusiams." my smile faded away as I looked out into the plains. "But i'm afraid we'll need more than the magic of friendship this time. This is no ordinary obstacle you girls face before."

Obstacle? No, this was no mere obstacle... I've never seen Celestia be afraid of something so much before in any of the episodes. Whatever these Baaeli are, I don't think Discord, Queen Chrysalis and King Sombra together would mean as much threat as these things do. But time will tell that, I've yet to face any of them.

Anyhow, we'll be back at Ponyville soon. I should get ready to start my own training and research as well if I want to stand a chance against the coming war. It's still not late, I'll try to learn a few basic things about magic once we get back.

About ten minutes later the train arrived in Ponyville. It stopped with a squeak and let out a puffed cloud of steam on the platform.

I looked at Twilight.

"Let's get off." I said while tilting my head towards the door. I pulled my hood on my head again and we both got of the train and headed home.

The sun was still up, I had a few hours left to make some progress on the matter of training.

"Twilight, when we get back could you sort out the books on the basics for me? I'll need to get started on learning right away."

"Yes, of course. But you can call me Twi, I noticed you did on the train." she blushed and chuckled a bit.

"All right." I turned my face away a bit and gave a little laugh. "I haven't even noticed when I did. Must be because of the good company."

Now that I think back, I really haven't noticed I called her Twi. Strange. Strange indeed. Being around her makes me feel accepted and happy. She understands me better than anyone I've ever met. And yet something threatens Equetria and with that, her. I will not allow anything to even scratch her. If I have to spill blood to do so, I will.

Twilight must have noticed that I was thinking of something, because she looked at me with a worried expression. Now I knew why. I wasn't smiling anymore, my face was serious and I didn't say anything.

"Everything all right?"

I looked at her with a little smile.

"Yes Twi, everything all right. I was just thinking. Let's get back to the library."

The rest of the way back was silent. We both delved into our own minds, thinking about what we should do next. I had to find a place that is resistant enough to be able to practice magic. Some place like a canyon or something, with no trees and wildlife.

I broke the silence first. "Twi, do you know any place I can practice magic? I mean combat magic by this. I don't want anypony to get hurt, nor do I want to set the Everfree Forest on fire."

Twilight was thinking for a few seconds then she turned to me. "All I can think of is the canyon near Ponyville. You can ask Rainbow to show you, she usually practices flying there."

"Thanks, I'll ask her tomorrow when I finish meeting the mayor."

By the time we finished our conversation, we arrived at the library. We went inside, and as I have expected, everything was clean, there was no mess. Spike was snoring in the middle of the room with the broom still in his hand.

I turned to Twilight with a grin on my face.

"He really gets tired from all this cleaning." I said with a quiet voice. "Should I take him up to his bed?"

"No, no, I'll do it. Go and have some coffee, I'm sure you'll be up for some time." she said quietly, while gently taking Spike into her arms. She went upstairs and put Spike into his bed then covered him with a blanket. She then came down.

I walked up to her, with two mugs of coffee in my hands and handed one over to her.

"I thought you'd like some too." I said while giving a little smile.

She smiled back.

"Thanks, nice of you."

She took the mug then quickly turned around and walked up to her desk, took a sip from her mug, then started sorting the books out.

"I'll get you the books on the basics then I'll try to locate the fortress the Keeper mentioned."

"Twi, don't overwork yourself too much. If you feel tired, go have some sleep. We have time, no need to do everything today."

"All right, I will. I'm just worried what might happen if we don't act in time."

"I understand, but we all have to rest and you're no exception."

"I gues you're right. I'm just too worried to think about resting."

She picked up a pile of books and gave them to me.

"These are the books on the basics of magic, and you'll also find several beginner spells in them what you can easily learn, like levitation."

I looked at the books and then back to Twilight. Finally I'll be able to use magic, just like I wanted. Another of my dreams came true, and I'm very grateful for that. Even if it comes with a burden I have to carry. I couldn't keep myself from grinning.

"Thanks Twi, I really appreciate what you do for me." I gave her a face-wide smile. It came from heart. I couldn't tell how happy I was.

She returned the smile and blushed a bit.

"I'm happy I've met you Jack. You're a very kind and nice person. I think you deserve way more than the pain and misery you lived through." she looked at me with an expression filled with both sorrow and happiness. "But if you're ever in need of somepony to talk to, remember, I'll be here."

My emotions exploded, I could barely hold myself back. My thougths were spinning around, I couldn't even talk for a few seconds. I just stood there smiling as a big drop of tear ran down my face.

"What's the matter?" Twilight asked.

"Nothing Twi. There's nothing wrong." I remained silent for a few seconds, then I took a deep, shuddering breath. "You can't imagine how happy you made me with those words... I've... never had anyone who cared about me, not even in the slightest way."

I almost couldn't keep myself from crying. I just felt so happy that I found someone, who actually cares about me. I closed my eyes, and embraced the feelings and emotions swirling inside me. Suddenly I felt warmth when Twilight's arms wrapped around me as she hugged me.

We just stood there in silence for some time. This moment was the happiest in all my life. Tears ran down my face, as I held Twilight.

"Thank you..." I said with a shuddering voice.

Twilight let her arms down, and took a step back.

"You don't have to worry anymore. The past is the past, you can't change it. But I'm happy to be here with you. I can't imagine what would happen to you if you stayed in your own world."

She smiled at me.

"Live your life as you wanted, try to be happy. I don't want to see you sad again."

Twilight reached out to me and wiped the tears off my face.

"There, better now?" she asked with a smile on her face.

I looked at her and returned the smile.

"Yea, better. And thank you. I won't forget this. Ever."

The sound of Spike rumbling in his bed interrupted my thoughts and shook me back into track. I sighed.

"All right, I'll start learning then, I still have a lot to do."

"Okay, I'll get the needed maps then. I'll have to gather them myself this time, I don't want to wake Spike up." said Twilight while walking over to the shelves, that held various parchments on them.

The rest of the evening went past in slience. Only the sound of Twilight scribbling down notes, and the turning of pages made some noise in the silent room. I made progress quite fast, even for myself. By the end of the day, I learned how to make a light spell, and I could levitate up to six objects at once.

I levitated six books up into the air then I tried to do it with an additional parchment. It didn't work though, the parchment fell to the floor after about two seconds.

"Hmmmm. I'll need to work more on this." I said while flipping through the pages of Magic: Basic theory.

Twilight stopped scribbling and turned to me in her chair, with a little grin on her face.

"I have to admit you're a very fast learner. You've only spent a about five hours on learning and you can already use a light spell and levitate six things at once." she blushed a bit. "To be honest, I think you learn even faster than me."

"I don't think so. You are Celestia's apprentice after all, and for a reason." I closed my eyes for bit and sighed. "Let's just say I'm pretty determined to defend these lands."

"I can see that already."

I yawned.

"Looks like I'm getting a bit tired. It's getting late. We both should get some rest, don't you think?"

"Good idea, I'm getting a bit tired too."

We all put down the books and parchments, and got ready to go and have some sleep. The next day will bring some new things to do. I'll have to go and meet the the mayor, then I'll ask Rainbow to show me the place Twilight mentioned.

We got into our beds.

"Good night, Twi."

"Good night, Jack." came the answer from upstairs.

I woke up as the first rays of sunlight licked my face through the window. I yawned and got up from the bed, and walked to the kitchen table and started making coffee.

"Good morning, Jack."

Twilight was already awake. She sat beside her table, looking at various maps and parchments.

"When did you wake up, Twi?" I asked her with a sleepy expression.

"Maybe an hour ago. I usually get up early."

"Want some coffee?"

"Yes, thank you"

I made two mugs of coffee and handed one of the mugs to Twilight. After I drank my coffee I felt a lot more energetic. I was no longer sleepy. We both had breakfast, and after that I decided it was time to arrange the things, that still needed to be done.

I gathered up my stuff and put on my cloak then walked to the door.

"The mayor is at the town hall right?"

"If she doesn't have any urgent business then yes."

"All right. Twi, I don't know when will I be back. After I've spoken to the mayor, I'll go and meet Rainbow and I'll probably go and try to learn some combat magic as well. I've packed some of the books."

She looked a bit worried.

"All right but don't get hurt. I'll be here. This won't take long, I've almost figured out the location of the Black Talon fortress."

"Good. At least we'll have a lead soon. I'll be back later."

I went out then closed the door behind me. I pulled my hood on my head, then headed to the town hall. As I went through the town, I received a few stares, but all in all, there was no trouble. After a few minutes of walking, I arrived at the town hall. The mayor was just outside the building, talking to a caramel colored mare with black mane. They finished chatting and the caramel mare turned around and left. I approached the mayor, but I left my hood on.

"Mayor?"

"Yes? What can I help you with?" she asked as she turned around. "Oh so you are the newcomer whom I heard of. You're the one who saved Applejack?"

"Yes, it's me. News sure spread quickly around here. Allow me to introduce myself, I'm Jack."

"Well, it's nice to meet you Jack, but why don't you take that hood off?"

"I'd prefer not to, ma'am."

"Oh well, never mind then. Is there anything I can do for you?"

"Actually, yes. I'm looking for a job. I've decided to stay here in Ponyville and settle down. Since I'll be staying I'll need a job, at least I can do something useful for the townsfolk too."

"Hmmm. So you decided to stay? Very well then. I'm sure we can find something for you to do."

"It can be anything, including hard physical work. I'll be able manage those works too."

"Now that you mention it, our blacksmith is in need of a new apprentice. His last apprentice gave up his job and moved to Canterlot a few months ago. He said he didn't like country life."

"A blacksmith, eh? That'll be good. The father of one of my classmates was a blacksmith. I used to to sit in his workshop for hours, just to watch him work the steel. I found it fascinating."

"Then I think this job is just for you!" she said while pushing her glasses up to her eyes. "I think you should go and meet Swifty Blackhammer. His workshop is not far from here. Go along this road, - she pointed down at the end of the road which I came from - and turn left at the fourth street. You'll find his workshop soon, it's on the right side of the road."

"Thank you, mayor. I'll be going then, I have a lot to do."

I turned around to leave but she interrupted me.

"Oh and one last thing Jack."

"Yes?"

"Welcome to Ponyville!" she said with a wide smile.

"Thanks. Good to be here."

I turned around and left the town hall and headed to Swifty's workshop. Hmmm, I never thought I'll get the chance to learn blacksmithing. This just keeps getting better and better. What did the mayor say? Oh yes, along the road and fourth on the left.

I arrived at the fourth street in minutes, and turned in. She said I'll find it quickly. Well, she wasn't lying. The workshop was far bigger than the normal houses and it had an enormous crest outside, hanging from a pole. It had and anvil and a hammer on it. I went to the house, and saw that Swifty was busy working on something that looked like a piece of an armor.

I entered the courtyard, and I heard the constant, loud banging of the hammer. I went closer to Swifty, but he he was too busy to notice me. He was a middle aged, greyish stallion with a deep brown mane and he had a scar running from his right eye down to his mouth. He wore a brown leather apron with tools hanging from it.

"Umm, hello?" I said with a raised voice.

Swifty stopped hammering and looked over his shoulder.

"Oyy, what'dya need lad?"

"Are you Swifty Blackhammer?"

"Aye, that's me."

"I just settled in town and I'm looking for work. The mayor said you could some help."

Swifty took the white-hot metal piece and put it in a barrel full of water, releasing a little cloud of hot steam.

"Aye, that's true. My last apprentice ran off with some silly excuse, that bastard. Well, he wasn't much use to me anyway."

Swifty put the armor piece down on the anvil, the walked over to his workbench and hanged the hammer on the wall.

"So lad, ya know anythin' about smithin'?"

"In theory, a few things. When I was a kid, I went over to my friend a lot. His father was a blacksmith, and I spent hours just watching him work the steel. Somehow I found blacksmithing interesting, but I never tried it."

"And ya want to learn the trade?"

"If you can teach me then yes."

"Well lad, ya came to the right place then."

He slapped his hands together, and then pointed towards the door.

"Come on in lad, we'll discuss the matter inside."

We went inside, and sat beside the kitchen table. The house was huge on the inside, filled with various works of Swifty. Armors on mannequins, swords and axes hanging on the walls. There was a big fireplace at the end of the living room, emitting a welcoming warmth into the room.

"Want a drink lad?"

"No thanks, I still have some things to do after this."

"All right, if ya say so."

"I'll have to tell you some things first, in case I'm 'needed' somewhere else."

I grabbed my hood and removed it from my head.

"Oh ya mean that. No need fer explainin'. I know the whole story lad."

"And from exactly where?" I asked with a questioning look.

"Apple family always been a good friend o' mine, and I heard you saved Applejack's flank. Fer that, I thank ya."

Swifty picked up a tankard and filled it with beer. He took a swig from it then continued.

"Ya don't have to explain anything, lad. Applejack and the others trust ya, and that's enough fer me. Listen here. If ya want to work as a smith apprentice, I'll take ya in. Ya'll be workin here till noon, then ya'll be free to go anywhere ya want. But if ya have to leave cause the lements need ya, go. I understand ya are important to them, and to the princess."

He took another swig from his tankard.

"Thank you. I'm glad I can count on you, and you can expect me to work here. I'd really like to learn blacksmithing, it always interested me."

"Okay, lad. I'm afraid we'll have to discuss yer payment later, I have a lot of work ahead of me, and this shipment cannot be delayed."

"Yea, I'll need to be going too. I still have to talk with Rainbow Dash about an urgent matter. When do I start Swifty?"

"Tomorrow good fer ya?"

"I ain't got a problem with it."

"Tomorrow it is then, lad."

I got up from the table, and went to the door. I looked back over my shoulder.

"Until tomorrow then." I said as I waved at him and left the house.

Right, so the job matter is handled and I have to admit, it went way better than I expected. I met the first pony who didn't treat me like a complete outcast. Maybe there is still hope for me.

I revised what Twilight said about Rainbow's house. Big castle like cloud building. I followed her intsructions on where to find it, and after getting lost one time, and 15 more minutes of walking, I finally found it. Of course Rainbow was nowhere to be found.

I sighed. She was probably taking a nap somewhere. Wait, she likes the park very much, I'll probably find her there, sleeping on one of the branches.

So I set out to find Rainbow. I got to the park soon, and I wasn't disappointed. Rainbow was indeed sleeping in the shroud of a tree. I walked up to the tree and shouted at her to wake her up.

"Hey Rainbow!"

It looked like I shouted a bit too loud, because Rainbow jumped up from her sleep with a little scream and hit her head in one of the lower branches. She looked at me with an annoyed expression, while rubbing her eyes.

"Yea, what is it - she yawned - Jack?"

"I need your help. Twilight said you know a place where I can practice magic, without destroying the whole town or burning down the forest."

"Yea, that's the canyon. I can show ya if ya want."

"I'd be glad if you could."

"All right, follow me then."

We walked for about half an hour, or rather only I was walking. Rainbow was flying around me the whole time, showing her tricks, and telling me stories about herself and the others. I knew almost every one of them, but she also told me a few I hadn't heard before.

"Seems like you girls had a pretty awsome life so far."

"Ya bet!" she answered with a grin on her face. "Ya should have seen the things we've done!" she gave a little laugh. "Yup, we're here champ!"

I looked around. Canyons and rocks everywhere, no sign of wildlife. Deserted, empty. This was the perfect place. All of the ponies were way out of harm's way, I could practice here without the fear of anyone getting hurt.

"Thanks rainbow!"

"Ahh don't mention it."

"I think I'll be able to find my way back, you can leave me. I'm sure you want to continue taking that nap." I said and I winked at her.

She grinned back then bursted out in laughter.

"Ya know me better than I thought! All right, I'll be off then. See ya later!" she waved at me then sped off, back to Ponyville.

Now I'm alone. Time to test what I'm really capable of.

I noticed a dried out tree trunk not far from myself. I gathered up my negative energies again and concentrated them into my palm. The black fire appeared again. I wanted to test how strong I was. I channeled more energy into my palm, and the fire got bigger. I put my hands together, and formed a ball from it, it was about the size of my head. I targeted the tree trunk and threw the black fireball at it. It travelled way faster than I thought it would, then it reached the tree trunk, and at the moment of the impact I heard a deafening boom as the fireball exploded, shattering the tree trunk and spreading wooden shrapnel everywhere.

Hehh, not bad. I grinned. This immense power, and I only threw a little fireball at the tree trunk. Celestia was right, I'll need to master the power lying inside me. If I can master it, I may really stand a chance at repelling these 'things' that threaten Equestria.

I just wonder... I raised my hand, and imagined a small arrow, while channeling negative energy into my right hand. I targeted the enormous rocks ahead of me and flicked my fingers. Black sparks flew off my fingertips, as a little lance of energy left them, that travelled lightning fast, and smashed into the rocks with a violent explosion, shattering them to pieces.

I grinned even more. This is going to be way more fun than I first thought...

Author's Note

Okay lads, sorry for being so late with this one. I didn't have much will, nor did I have time to do so during these two weeks. But I finally got myself together and here's chapter 5. From now on I will have more time to put chapters together. If you lads got anything to ask or say, do so.
Until then, va fail
Novexx