The Toymaker

Chapters

A Family Friend
Grand Opening!
A Stallion's Resolve
A Challenger Approaches
A Story Told
Things Get (More) Serious
The Journey Begins
I Have No Memory of This Place...
Voodoo Queen and Things Unseen
Dropping In
A Plot Revealed

A Family Friend

Mom's wings beat a soft rhythm against the darkening sky. Finally she dipped slightly and brought us in for a landing right onto the front porch. I stumbled off of her back -still half asleep- and let out a yawn. Checking behind me I saw that Patchwork had survived the flight inside mom's saddlebag. I wanted to hold my new friend all the way home, but mom insisted that I have my hooves free in case of another crash landing.

Mom smiled at me and reached into her bag. She playfully placed Patchwork right on top of my head and chuckled as I tried to keep my balance. She walked over to the door and waited for me to come inside, but then she stopped and stood very still. Her ears shifted rapidly and her eyes widened. With the biggest grin she rushed off the porch and tore around the corner in a grey and yellow blur. Utterly confused I followed her as quickly as my small legs could manage. Rounding the corner I called, "Mom, what's going on?"

And then I heard it. A strange whirring sound echoed through the gathering night and it sounded like it was coming from the garden in the back. The gate was open, so mom must have gone that way. As I galloped through the wooden gate, I saw mom in the garden jumping up and down in barely contained excitement. The whirring noise kept getting louder.

I covered my ears and shouted, "Mom, what's going on?!" She just kept jumping around and fluttering her wings. She looked so happy, which was possibly the only reason that I wasn't completely terrified. I was only mostly terrified.

Mom gasped in surprise and I followed her gaze to rest on the stone patio. It was just a simple stone slab nestled between two blueberry bushes, but right before my eyes a blue box started to materialize in front of us. It just showed up... out of THIN AIR! And the whole time the whirring kept getting louder. Eventually the noise started to fade and the box came into full view. It was a simple wooden box, painted blue, with a sign reading "Pony Box" fixed just above the door. It had a strange blue light on top that quickly went out as soon as the world was silent again.

Mom still couldn't tear her eyes away from the box and she also started chanting "yes, yes, yes yes, YES!" As the wooden door opened with a creak, she bolted forward screaming "DOCTOR!" and plowed straight through the open door. A loud series of bangs and crashes reverberated through the open door along with some explosions and very choice words spoken in an accent that reminded me of my friend Pipsqueak. A thin stream of smoke crawled lazily out the door.

I rushed to the open door and tried to call out to my mom, but what I saw took my breath away. The inside of the box was absolutely massive. There was no way that it could have fit! Large metal beams supported an enormous spherical room. In the center was a grated platform with a huge and complex looking machine, and leaning up against the machine was my mom tightly hugging an earth pony with a dusky amber coat, spiky dark brown mane, and a red necktie. All around them was a mess of broken glass and other things that I really can't describe. Mom squeezed even tighter until the stranger's face was turning from amber to purple. He choked, "Dit... zy... can't... breathe... air..."

Mom jumped back sheepishly and muttered, "Sorry."

The stranger took a few deep breaths and managed to get back onto his wobbly hooves. He mumbled something like, "Never get used to being quadruped" and beamed.

"Hello, Ditzy! How long has it been? Really can't tell from my end, but it feels like ages! By the way, remind me to tell Twilight about the giant crabs. They are going to be a real nuisance one day. And don't get me started about the manti- Well hello there! Who might you be?"

He turned his beaming smile upon me as I stood in the doorway, and for the first time since this all started, mom remembered that I was still there. She rushed forward to pick me up in her forelegs. She gently drifted out of the box and back into our small garden. I was breathing very fast and my heart pounded so hard it hurt. She laid me down on the soft grass and started to try to calm me down.

"It's okay, hun. This is a friend of mine, and I'm sure he wants to be friends with you too. I know all of this is a lot to take in, but I want you to trust me. Can you do that?"

I looked into her soft, loving eyes and nodded slowly. Of course I trusted her. I breathed in one last large gulp of air and then forced myself to start breathing normally. Letting out a relieved breath, mom said, "Alright, I think she's ready for a proper introduction."

The stranger trotted happily up to us, keeping that cocky smile on his muzzle the whole time. At least he looks like a nice pony, I thought to myself. Getting back to my hooves I cautiously walked to meet him. More timidly than I would have liked, I said, "H-Hi...I'm Dinky."

Unexpectedly, he grimaced and clutched a hoof to his chest as he doubled over in pain. Worried that he was hurt I ran over and yelled, "Mister! Are you okay!" He nodded and threw me a sly wink.

"Sorry about that, sweetheart. You are just so cute that I thought my heart would give out. Can't be too cautious now can we?"

Mom chuckled and said, "Well it's sure a good thing you have two hearts, right Doctor?"

"You know, sometimes I forget about those. But I digress." His cocky, know-it-all smile returned. "Anyway, nice to meet you Dinky. I'm the Doctor."

"Nice to meet you Doctor." I offered him my hoof in greeting.

His ears drooped and the smile was wiped from his face but he bumped hooves with me anyway. "Aren't you going to ask me what my name is?"

"No. You already told me. You're the Doctor."

"Blast. Well this is no fun." He shook his head sadly, but quickly perked up and let out a sharp laugh. It was so infectious that mom and I joined in as well. I decided right then that I like him.

"Well Doctor, if you couldn't tell, Dinky is my daughter. I hope you were planning on staying with us for a little while."

The Doctor started and looked over me more intently. "Well would you look at that? And such a pretty young filly she is. Smart too I'll wager. Just like her mum." Scratch that, I REALLY like him. "I guess I can stay for a while. Especially with the TARDIS *cough* temporarily out of commission." As if on cue, there was a high pitched whistle and a small explosion coming from the blue box he arrived in. Smoke poured out even thicker and the Doctor urgently took off into the smoking box screaming, "No, no, no. This is NOT good!"

Looking suitably embarrassed, mom turned to me, "Well Dinky? What do you think of mom's old friend?"

I gave her a big smile and said, "He's kinda wierd, but in a good way. He's really silly and he looks really nice. I'm still not sure how he got here or what you meant when you said he had two hearts, but I like him."

She nodded knowingly. "I knew you would."

"One thing though. Why does he call you Ditzy, mom?"

"That's a name I went by a long time ago and in a place very far away. Just know that here and now I am your mom and I will love you no matter what." A far away look crept into her eyes. "Ditzy Doo is gone, but now Derpy Hooves is here to stay... and I wouldn't have it any other way."

We walked side through the back door and started to prepare dinner for three. Something that hadn't happened in a long time. The night started to wind down and I gave mom a quick peck on the cheek and the Doctor a warm hug before heading to bed. Crawling under the covers I held Patchwork close and whispered, "Three new friends in one day Patchwork. Things are going to get lively for both of us." With one last sigh and a quick squeeze, sleep caught me in its warm embrace.

Grand Opening!

Three days passed and it was finally time for Finn to open his shop. The floors were clean, the shelves and bins were stocked, and the chandelier gleamed with all of its former glory. There were stuffed animals, puppets, building blocks, jump ropes, art supplies, funny hats, and many more in every color imaginable (and even a few that elude the imagination). Music was playing from a gramophone sitting in the outstretched arms of a giant teddy bear. Everything sparkled and dazzled with a wondrous glow... so where in Tartarus WAS EVERYPONY!!!

Sadly, things had gone much worse than Finn had expected. He didn't expect to have too many patrons immediately, but he didn't expect to have none. The shop was a block off of the main road, which means it didn't get too much hoof traffic. On top of that he forgot to advertise the grand opening very effectively. Finn sighed for about the eightieth time in the last hour when the bell atop the door rang merrily and three pony's entered.

Dinky and Derpy walked right up to the long counter, but the stallion that accompanied them stopped and stared at the wall that Derpy had broken through during their previous encounter. When Finn saw his new friends coming he leaped over the counter and scooped Dinky up in his hooves, giving her a warm hug. She giggled and returned his affectionate greeting.

"By Luna's stars and moon, Dinky you are a sight for sore eyes! And you as well Miss Hooves! And how do you find my wonderful shop now?"

He gazed expectantly at the pair as they each turned in a circle to take in the many wonders set before them. The toy train was still zipping around the room on its own reassembling track. A miniature clockwork dragon nestled upon a small mound of fake gold coins. And the fixed chandelier refracted the colorful light from the ceiling into a kaleidoscope of light that changed before their very eyes. The whole placed was a testament to a child's sense of wonder and excitement.

"It's beautiful, Mr. Touch."

"Now you cut out that 'Mister' stuff, Miss Hooves! Please just call me Finn. That goes for you too Dinky. I'll have no formality in my shop!"

The stallion at the entrance decided now was the time to speak. "I do hope you'll make an exception sir. I feel like a formal introduction would be more appropriate than an informal one."

"Well sir, I must say I prefer a casual introduction myself but if you insist I can get the powdered wigs and shiny shoes out of the attic. Or perhaps Miss Hooves here would like to serve as our herald? I have a bugle here somewhere."

The Doctor chuckled. "Oh, I like you! Casual it is then. I am the Doctor and my dear friend Dit- er- Derpy has identified you as one Finishing Touch, am I right?"

"Guilty as charged. I am Finishing Touch and this is my humble shop." He looked quizzically at the Doctor. "And you said you are the Doctor." The Doctor's amber ears perked up and a hungry gleam entered his eye. After a brief pause Finn continued, "Well its wonderful to meet you Doctor."

The Doctor almost visibly deflated and that gleam was snuffed out of his eyes. He turned to Derpy and groaned, "Is it really going to be this difficult every time." Derpy let out a mirthful snort while Finn and Dinky shared a confused look.

The Doctor, as usual, regained his composure quickly and returned to the wall while putting on a pair of glasses which he pulled from Celestia knows where. "Tell me Finn; Derpy broke through this wall, correct? And you fixed it with your magic? Because this area absolutely reeks of a singularity field. Smells a bit like pineapple to me. Better than pears. Anyway, that's fascinating. I believe you contained the wreckage in a singularity field and reversed time within an isolated area. Everything is completely intact and not a speck of paradox to be seen. I am very impressed. Not many unicorns can pull off that kind of magic."

Finn looked flabbergasted, but he too regained his composure quickly. "I've never heard of an earth pony so well versed in arcane knowledge. You are right, Doctor. That was a singularity field, but it isn't quite as uncommon as you would think."

The Doctor removed his spectacles and walked over to join Dinky and Derpy, who had lost interest in their exchange and were looking at an aquarium filled with swimming toy fish. I had better keep an eye on that one, Finn thought to himself. He slapped on his usual charming smile and joined his two favorite customers.

"So why has nopony else come to look at your store today, Mr. Finn?"

"I think it is because I was so busy setting up that I forgot to tell anypony except you two about the opening. We aren't directly on the main road, so I don't imagine many ponies would have heard about this place yet. I'm sure in time we will build up a reputation as soon as more ponies find their way here."

"Sounds like a poor business decision on your part," chimed the Doctor.

"Heh, yes I do believe you are right."

Derpy's eyes widened as she was struck with an idea. "Dinky, you stay here and look around. I need to go into the market and grab a few things for dinner tonight. Are you going to stay here too, Doctor?" The Doctor didn't respond, so she trotted out the door leaving him muttering to himself about "localized chronological re-fabrication."

Finn turned to Dinky and asked in a conspiratorial whisper, "So are you taking care of my dear old friend?"

Dinky's face lit up. "Yes sir!"

"I knew you would. Now let me show you some of my other creations. Ah! Here comes Klaus with one of them now."

He pointed a hoof as Klaus sailed through the air in a miniature airship. He was wearing a mini scarf and aviator goggles to complete the look of a pilot soaring through the sky in search of adventure. He cruised around both of them and then started ascending rapidly. HONK!!! HONK!!! Klaus' voyage was cut short as the train plowed straight though the airship's balloon. The rest of the dirigible plummeted into a bin full of teddy bears, with Klaus hanging on for dear life.

Finn and Dinky ran to the bin wearing worried expressions. As they peeked over the lid a bright pink earth pony with a poofy mane sprung out from among the toys, with Klaus helplessly tangled in her unruly hair. She gasped and bounced into the air. "WOW! Derpy was right! I've never seen you in Ponyville before. That means you must be new here. Which means that you're a new friend for me to make. Which can only mean one thing."

Finn could barely comprehend what the energetic mare was saying. While her appearance, and apparent ability to speak in full paragraphs on a singe breath, was slightly unnerving; he saw in her a child's soul filled with innocence and laughter. He like her immediately.

Removing his hat with his hoof, he performed one of his trademark theatrical bows and said, "Well, miss, I would be honored to call you my friend. I am Finishing Touch, or 'Finn' for short."

He barely managed to get the words out before the pink mare flashed over to him and shook his free hoof with both of her own front hooves. "It is so so so nice to meet you, Finny! My name's Pinkie Pie, but everypony around here calls me Pinkie Pie. Hooray! This means we're friends now!" She slid over to Dinky and placed her face next to the filly's. "And you know what that means!" Both girls leaped in the air and shouted excitedly, "A PARTYYYY!!!"

Pinkie pulled a conch shell from out of nowhere and blew a mighty blast out of the front door. As if by magic, dozens of ponies came trotting through the door in droves. Pinkie dashed to the gramophone bear and put on a fresh record using her tail. A few ponies had already started dancing to the new beat and many more walked around admiring the wonders that the new shop offered. Several of them even purchased a few of Finn's creations.

That night, after all the guests had left, Finn, Derpy, Dinky, Pinkie, and the Doctor were all seated in Finn's kitchen enjoying a fresh slice of Pinkie's latest culinary masterpiece. Everyone was laughing merrily and enjoying the pleasant company. After everypony had finished eating, Finn cleared his throat to get their attention. He turned to Pinkie and said, "I want to thank you so much Pinkie. Without you this would have been a total flop of an opening."

The pink party pony beamed and then shook her head. "Nope nope. You should thank Derpy. She was the one who told me where to find you."

Finn grinned brightly at Derpy. "Is this true?"

Derpy blushed and fiddled with her hooves. "Uh huh. When you said that nopony was going to show up, I knew I had to do something. Everypony should see the wonderful toys that you make. Nopony draws a crowd like Pinkie so I told her that a new stallion was in town and I told her where to find you."

Finn reached over and wrapped her in a tight hug. "Thank you, Derpy! Thank you so much!"

After a record length of time in silence (for him anyway) the Doctor spoke up. "There is one thing I don't quite understand. Miss Pie, how is it that you popped in through the floor like that? Or managed to get here mere minutes after Derpy left? And where do you keep pulling these random items from?"

Pinkie shrugged as she guiltily nudged a rubber chicken under the table with her back hoof. She held her front hooves out in front of her. "Aliens."

"Well I have a hard time believing that."

"Alright then. It really has to do with a lot of wibbly-wobbly-timey-wimey stuff."

"Now your just being ridiculous."

Pinkie laughed so hard that she fell out of her chair. She continued to laugh on the floor until she realized that everyone else was regarding her with blank stares. She just continued to smile and bade everyone goodnight. The others left soon after and Finn was once again left alone with his thoughts.

This really was a grand opening. I didn't expect to become such a hit around this town. He cringed. But I didn't come here to make friends. Be patient, Finn. There are still preparations that must be made. You've tracked it this far, don't fall down in the home stretch. He let out a jaw-cracking yawn. But tomorrow is another day, and you never know what it may bring.

A Stallion's Resolve

Days become weeks and weeks become months. Soon six months had passed since Finishing Touch opened his shop in Ponyville. And in that whole time, Dinky remained his most loyal patron. She would never buy anything, but he valued her companionship and candid humor nonetheless. To be honest, he was very fond of the little filly. She would come in at least twice a week and play with one or another of Finn's new creations. Her eyes always sparkled with wonder at even the most simple designs. Finn loved having her around the shop; soon she was coming over every day after school.

"Dinky, can I ask you something?"

The purple filly set down the Anti-Gravity Spinning Top™ and cocked her head inquisitively. It was a miracle that Patchwork didn't fall off of her perch atop Dinky's head. "Sure Finn. What's up?"

"Well Dinky, I've noticed that you visit me everyday -don't get me wrong, I enjoy having you around- but I also noticed that you haven't been spending any time with your other friends. Is everything alright?"

Her face fell. "I... I never really had many friends. Most of the fillies and colts in my class don't want to hang out because they think my mom is weird. I keep telling them how great she really is, but they don't believe me. I can't stand ponies thinking that mom's stupid or broken." She perked up slightly. "That's why I have her, and you, and Patchwork. Even the Doctor comes by sometimes."

Finn listened intently to her explanation and came to a startling realization. Dinky really had no other friends. A small drop of liquid pride threatened to blur his vision, but he slapped on his trademark grin and dove straight over the counter as if he was jumping into a swimming pool. With an aqua flash and a puff of smoke he resurfaced, clutching a small shimmering object in his hoof. He ran over to Dinky and said, "Hey Dinky, how would you like to work for me? I could sure use an assistant keeping this place clean and running properly. I would have to ask you're mom of course, but you might as well get paid since you are here everyday any-"

He didn't get the last word out because Dinky tackled him in a rib cracking hug. "Let me go get her! We'll ask her right now!" And just like that she bolted out of the door and left Finn chuckling on the floor, still clutching the shiny object in his hoof. Just as he was about to roll over on his hooves he noticed his small wooden friend jumping up and down on his stomach trying to get his attention.

He looked down at his friend and inquired, "What is it, Klaus?" The primate stopped jumping and proceeded to make a circling motion with one arm and jabbing his tail toward the back room. "Oh." He raised a hoof for Klaus to climb on and positioned him along the brim of his ever present top hat. He drew the curtains on the windows and switched the sign on the door to read "Be back soon." With a last whistle the lights dimmed and he walked solemnly into his small living area.

Over the mantle gleamed a massive mirror rimmed in a frame that was studded with opals. With a flick of his magic the mirror rippled and his reflection morphed into a familiar shape. His informant always refused to show his face, so he hid his body in a black cloak and cowl and covered his face with a plain white mask. The only feature Finn could distinguish was a single eye. It had a slitted feline pupil and the iris was a strange silver. He was an unnerving stallion, but he was good at his job.

"What news do you have for me?"

"I have located the amulet. It is being hidden by a zebra who resides within the Everfree Forest. Be warned! She is a powerful shamane with unknown powers at her disposal. If this is something you aren't willing to die for, then I would advise that you give up now."

"My ancestors created that amulet. It is my duty to see to it that it fulfills its purpose. Thank you for the information, sir. Your payment, as promised." Finn tossed a leather sack of bits through the mirror and it passed through with a slight ripple. "If you are correct then we will never have to speak again. I would like for this to be a touching parting, but it really isn't. May the stars never lead you astray."

And with that final blessing, Finn slammed a hoof into the mirror and sent a cascade of shards onto the hard wood floor. All these years of preparation. All these years. He had given up friends, family, even his home and title pursuing this moment. He will finally rid his family of their eight hundred year burden.

A crazed smile leaped to his face and he cackled maniacally in the light of the fire burning in the hearth. But he stopped abruptly as a small glint caught his eye. He trotted to the ruined mirror and saw a small piece of shiny metal glinting in the firelight. With a swift tug of magic he ripped it from the wall and observed the object. It was a key. A golden key with the head shaped like a wrapped present, and on the shaft was inscribed one word. Dinky.

Finn's face paled and the key fell to the floor with a dull ring.

"Awww, but the shop was just open a minute ago!" Dinky pouted.

Derpy swept her daughter onto her back and chimed, "I guess we will just have to come back tomorrow then. You know Finn is a busy stallion. Maybe he just stepped out to get supplies or to fix a toy that may have got broken. You know how he is." Derpy launched into the air and the pair made their way home.

That night...

Finn, wrapped in a dark cloak, skulked through the still night. His heart was heavy, but filled with resolve. He had to complete this mission. There was no doubt about that. But he will lose the only friends he had. He would never see Dinky again. Never hear her bell-like laughter or see her shy smile. Never again watch her eyes widen with awe or glow with love. Even her clumsiness was somehow endearing. And he will never get to see-

SNAP OUT OF IT!

Finn held his head high and adopted a resolute stare that would have made a royal guard proud. His mission was of the utmost importance. He had waited too long and sacrificed too much to give up now. There was no price that he wasn't willing to pay. No length that he wouldn't go to. At least that is what he kept telling himself. He still indulged in one final selfish act.

In the dead of night he sneaked to Derpy and Dinky's small cottage on the outskirts of Ponyville. He had visited many times and dined with them on several occasions. Dinky's window was dark and and closed, but luckily the shutters were open. With just the slightest touch of magic he levitated the key hung around a leather cord. He navigated the key to rest upon the window's latch. He paused and bid one last farewell to his dear friend, then bounded stealthily into the night and the Everfree Forest.

A Challenger Approaches

TAP...TAP...TAP...

Dinky woke groggily and looked around her dark room. Where is that noise coming from, she thought to herself.

TAP...TAP...TAP...

She got out of bed and walked slowly to the window. Whenever her friends use to want to hang out with her, sometimes they would throw rocks at her window to get her attention (Especially if they wanted to sneak out in the middle of the night). But she didn't have friends anymore. She looked out into the moonlit night, but nopony was in sight. In the light of Luna's moon every bush and tree cast a shadow that turned the familiar landscape into a whole new world. Turning to go back to bed, she heard it once again.

TAP...TAP...TAP...

She turned back to the window and a glint caught her eye. Dangling from the latch on her window was a golden key hanging from a golden chain, swaying in the breeze. Her curiosity soon got the better of her; so she propped open one side of the window, leaned out, and looped the chain around her hoof. Drawing herself back into the room, she shut the window and stared at the key in the bright moonlight.

The head was shaped like a wrapped Hearth's Warming Eve present. Hey eyes roved over the magnificent object, but then she noticed something else. Engraved on one side of the shaft was her name. Finn must have left this here for me. He must really be excited about me helping in the shop, but why would he leave it here and now? And he didn't even talk to mom about it yet. She turned the key over and noticed something written on the other side. Two more words were etched there.

" 'I'm sorry.' What could that mean? Unless... Oh, no."

Panic set in as she started to contemplate the gift. If he gave me the key, that means he wanted me to have it. Why would he be sorry about that?

She paced around her room, thinking about the possible implications of the mysterious gift. At a loss, she jumped onto her bed and hugged Patchwork tightly to her chest. Tears came to her eyes as she sobbed, "I just don't know what it means, Patchwork. What can I do? What if he's in trouble? Or hurt? I need to find him!"

She leaped out of her bed and walked confidently to her bedroom door. She reached for the knob and froze. Her shoulders slumped and her head bowed in sorrow. "But I don't know where to start."

"I know where he is!"

Dinky jumped at the sound of the unfamiliar voice. "Who said that? Who's in my room?"

"I am! Come on, Dinky. Don't tell me you don't recognize your best friend."

She spun around and stared wide eyed at the toy sitting upon her bed. Patchwork climbed onto her fabric legs and fluttered her wings. With a quick bound she landed atop one of the posts on Dinky's bed and stared at her best friend.

"P-P-Patchwork. Y-You can t-talk?"

"Yup. Sure can! And I can do lots of other stuff too!" Her voice was high pitched like a young filly. Every word was spoken as if it contained the very essence of joy and laughter.

"But how can you talk and move?! You never did that before!"

"How do you think, silly? Master told you that he made me and that I was his greatest treasure. Did you think that I was just any old doll?"

"I thought that he meant you were important to him because you reminded him of being a kid or something. And why haven't you talked to me until now?"

The multicolored doll tilted her head to the side. "Well, you didn't need me until now. Master said I would be here if you got sad or mad. Just now you got really sad, so here I am! Now do you want me to help you find master, or not?"

Dinky was still having a hard time grasping the fact that the doll she held for six months, her very best friend, was alive. She felt faint from all of the new information, but she steeled herself. She slipped the chain around her neck and felt the key thump against her chest. With as much confidence she could muster she opened the door and called, "Let's go, Patchwork!"

"Yay!" The doll glided on her mismatched wings and alighted upon Dinky's head. Dinky then crept down the hall and out the back door, careful not to wake her mother. She made it outside without confrontation and softly whispered to her friend, "Where is he? Which way do I need to go?"

"Ummm, that way." She pointed a multicolored hoof towards a thickly wooded area that marked the beginning of the Everfree Forest. Dinky gulped audibly and almost lost her nerve, but she took one last look at her home and charged boldly into the dark night.

Finn crept through the dark forest as quietly as possible. Loose limbs and burrs dug into his cloak and threatened to rip it from his body. The night was eerily still, no sign of nocturnal predators or life of any sort. There were no owls hooting, no crickets chirping, no scurrying in the underbrush, just silence and the sound of him rustling through the dense woodland.

"Alright, Klaus, I'm sure that her hut is supposed to be a little bit further along this path." Honestly he wasn't sure if they were even on the path at all anymore, but he had to simply trust his instinct and innate sense of direction. Soon he paused and spotted a faint glow in the distance.

"It's not the right color to be a will-o-the-wisp. That must be her hut. Probably the light from a window." He trotted cautiously towards the light, dead set on remaining unnoticed. As he crept closer he noticed that something wasn't quite right. The light got brighter as he approached, but it wasn't a gentle glow anymore.

He crept to the edge of a clearing and saw the hut that he was searching for, except that now it was engulfed in a towering inferno. The whole tree was being consumed by flames that reached up into the night sky, and lying on the hard ground near the tree was Zecora.

Finn rushed to her side. Her fur was singed and her mohawk definitely contained more black than it usually did. Some of the bangles around her front leg were welded together by the intense heat. Finn leaned his head down and listened for her heartbeat. It was faint, but she was alive. Then he noticed the craters scattered around her and the silver spikes impaled in the trees like needles. This wasn't an accident.

"Well done, sir. But it appears you are a bit late to the party."

Finn wheeled around and stood face to face with a face that he would recognize anywhere. Better yet, a mask he would recognize anywhere. Facing him was the informant who gave him the location of the amulet. The familiar white mask and unnerving eyes stared back at him with barely controlled glee.

"Shame on you Finishing Touch! You made me wait. I wanted to watch the two of you fight it out before I finished you both. It's a shame the zebra noticed me before you got here. I guess I should apologize for the mess."

His voice was laced with casual disinterest, as if he were inviting somepony over for dinner instead of plotting their murder. Finn just stood there in blank shock. Even his usually quick wit wouldn't respond to the horror he was witnessing.

"Who are you?"

"What a strange question. Very well, if your memory is lacking, I am the one who informed you that the Alicorn Amulet was last seen in the custody of this zebra."

"I know that much, I was there after all. What I want to know is why you did this? And what are you hiding behind that mask?"

"Oh? Well you should have asked that question in the first place. It's good communication practice to say what you mean to-"

"Enough! Just answer my questions!"

"Alright, alright. I'll tell you." With a flick of his hoof, the hood fell back to reveal sleek gunmetal grey fur and a spiky orange and white mane. He reached with the same hoof and removed the mask. His face didn't seem much different from an average pony, except for his eyes and fangs. Both of his pupils were reptilian slits, but one iris was silver while the other was sparkling gold. Two fangs jutted from mouth like a snake's. He cast an amused glance at Finn, and with a faint shimmer a horn materialized upon his head.

"Yes, shocking isn't it? To answer your second question, this is what I was hiding under my mask. A shame really, because I swear the mares wouldn't be able to get enough of me. Which brings us back to your second question. Why would I give you the information you needed only to kill you at the last minute? Come on mister genius, you're smarter than this."

Finn's frowned deepened as he glared at this new adversary. "You want the amulet for yourself."

"Close, but no cigar."

"Then you work for somepony else."

"Bingo! Come on, there's more."

"And you needed Zecora to tell you where she hid the amulet, because it wasn't here."

"You're on a roll now! Bring it on home!"

"And so you attacked her in order to get the information that you needed!"

The stranger paused and tapped one of his fangs with his hoof pensively. "You win; however, now you know the truth. That makes you a loose end. I have what I came for, but we can't leave loose ends."

His eyes narrowed and he dashed forward with incredible speed. Finn had just enough time to blast him back with a burst of magic. The stranger flew backwards and rammed straight into a large oak tree. Not wanting to give up his advantage, Finn levitated one of the silver spikes off the ground and shot it straight towards the tree. The spike impaled the cloak, sticking it into the tree, but the stallion who was wearing it was nowhere to be seen.

A sharp whistle from above drew Finn's attention to the sky. The mysterious stranger flapped giant leathery wings to keep himself aloft. Finn cried in alarm, "What are you!?"

The stranger conjured a fireball on the tip of his horn. In the light of orange flames his face looked hollow and menacing.

"Do you like them? This is just one of the perks of being in the Apocalypse Corps. That and the wicked dental plan."

Licking his fangs, he hurled the fireball down to the ground. Finn rolled to the side and managed to escape with only a few scorch marks on his cloak. Whipping off the smoldering garment, Finn launched it to distract the strange stallion. While the stranger was distracted by the fluttering cloak, Finn teleported next to the tree he had impaled earlier. Pulling Klaus out of his mane, he placed him inside an abandoned squirrel den.

"Alright, Klaus, time to earn your keep." With a quick salute, the primate hurried deep into the hole.

Turning back to face his opponent, Finn reached into a dimensional pocket and brought out his trusty green top hat. He placed it atop his head and grinned wickedly, "Now I feel whole again."

After blasting it away with a blast of magic the stranger realized the cloak was a diversion and raced after his prey. His manic grin slipped as he noticed the emerald stallion giving him an equally crazed smile. Finn called up to him, "Now we will see how you like facing off against the greatest enchanter in Equestria!"

The tree exploded and the two next to it followed suit. Limbs, splinters, bark, and leaves swirled around and slowly began to reassemble in the form of a giant gorilla. This behemoth was easily three times as big as a timber wolf, with glowing white eyes. The gargantuan primate let loose a mighty roar that shook the trees and almost managed to knocl the challenger out of the sky.

The mysterious dragon winged stallion laughed crazily, "Oh, this is going to be fun!"

A Story Told

*This chapter will be told from Finn's perspective*

He was gone, and Dinky was gone with him. What was that fog? It wasn't any magic I've ever seen. A harsh shudder runs down my spine and bile rises in my throat. I don't even want to think about the horrors that whack-job would do to a poor defenseless filly.

Without warning, my vision starts to blur. Everything starts spinning in a crazy collage of earth and fire. Just as easily as it started, everything goes dark and my head gets intimately acquainted with the ground.

Whispers crowded around like a flock of bats. To be honest, these were the loudest whispers I've ever heard.

"We need'ta do somethin'! That crazy lookin' varmint took that poor filly!"

"AJ's right! That lame dragon-pony-thing needs to learn some manners!"

"But we don't know anything about him, or even what he wants. All we know is that when we got there, the forest was destroyed, Zecora was unconscious, and this stallion collapsed. I don't even know who this guy is!"

"Um, girls? I think he's waking up." At least that voice was softer. My head feels like the practice floor for a River dance troupe. Regardless, I guess this is my cue to figure out where I am.

I open my eyes to see the beginning rays of sunlight streaming in through some high windows. Everything was made of wood. The floor, walls, heck even the ceiling are seamlessly carved from one large block. The place has a very organic feel to it. What else? There are books everywhere, on shelves, on tables, on the floor. Factoring in the six ponies standing around me can only mean one thing...

"How did I get to the library?"

Relief washes over them as they realize I don't seem to have any brain damage (Show's what they know. I'm already a little nuts). Somehow they managed to get me onto a low couch. A dry crust covers my burns indicating an application of some kind of ointment. Bandages wrap a good percentage of my body to stop the bleeding from an assortment of cuts and scrapes. I try to move my head to look around, but (surprise) my body wasn't responding.

A purple alicorn stepped forward and addresses me with an uncertain smile, "Hey... Are you okay?" I resist the urge to make a snarky comment. Charm always works better for me anyway. At least my mouth still works.

"Ah, so you must be Princess Twilight Sparkle. Forgive me if I don't bow, I fear I may not be able to get back up. And I see the other Elements of Harmony are here as well. It figures that in such prestigious company I would look a complete mess."

A few of the Elements had been customers in my shop, but I had only ever been properly introduced to Pinkie Pie. At my offhoofed flippancy the princess only looked more uncomfortable. As for her friends. A butter yellow mare shied away from my instinctive charming smile. A lovely white unicorn batted her eyes playfully (Hey, I'm a good looking guy!). Pinkie was climbing up a wall using suction pads on her hooves (largely ignored by the others). Lastly, an orange earth pony with a beaten hat and a cyan pegasus with prismatic mane just looked blankly unimpressed. I guess I need to keep going to put them at ease.

"In all seriousness, thank you for taking care of me once I collapsed. Magical exhaustion is very debilitating and I may not have survived otherwise. I am sure you have your share of questions for me. Suffice to say that my name is Finishing Touch, though you can call me Finn. I own a toy store on a side alley off Mane Street. I have lived in Ponyville for six months and last night I fought a creature who will live on in my nightmares until such time as I can manage to receive proper therapy. My hobbies include carpentry and long walks in the moonlight. I love chocolate and mint-"

"Who doesn't?" Pinkie Pie calls down from the rafters. Undeterred I continue, "-yet I despise pears (Pinkie got a chuckle out of that one) and straitjackets. I am sure that answers a number of your questions, but before we continue I have one of my own."

I have trained myself to hold my smile under any circumstance, but it slips as I ask, "Is Zecora going to be alright?"

Twilight answers, "She's doing just fine. She's resting upstairs in my bed."

I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding and slap the smile back on. "Well that's dandy! Quiz time. Ask away."

She takes in a breath to begin, but a dull thump and a muffled "Ow!" caught her attention. The cyan pegasus flies up a high window, reaches out, and pulls in Derpy Hooves. Tears stream down her face and a nasty bump is growing on her head. As soon as she was inside she lands and sobs, "Twilight, you have to help me! When I woke up this morning, Dinky wasn't in bed. I don't know where she could have gone! Do you have some kind of tracking spell or something? Any way at all that I can find her?"

Twilight looks heartbroken, and she turns so that Derpy could see me laid out on the couch. Her eyes widen as she tentatively walks over. "Finn? What happened to you? I flew by your store, but everything was locked up."

I can't stand to see the tears in her eyes, and my calm facade shatters. The pain of the entire night's events comes crashing down and tears spring to my eyes as well. I can't bring myself to tell her the truth, but I have to. She has the right to know.

"Derpy... a stranger attacked last night in the Everfree Forest. I fought him off, but he got away. And... and he took Dinky."

Her face pales. All the life seems to drain out of her, but just as quickly fire leaps into her eyes as she jumps on me and starts pounding at me with hooves fueled by all the rage that only a desperate mother could conjure.

"AND YOU JUST LET HIM TAKE HER! YOU WERE HER HERO, FINN! YOU WERE HER FRIEND!"

As the cyan mare and the cowpony pull her off she quickly runs out of steam and goes limp in their hooves. She looks betrayed and mumbles, "She trusted you, and so did I."

I felt my heart shatter at that very moment. Imagine if someone froze your still beating heart and smashed it with a hammer. Then the only sensation you felt were the chilling shrapnel falling through the rest of your body and fracturing still further as they hit the floor. She is completely right. It was my fault. My actions led to this.

"Derpy, you are right. This whole thing is my fault. I know that nothing I can say will make this better, but I promise on my very soul that I will get her back."

Still restrained she replies, "She is my whole world, Finn."

"I know." I let loose a sigh and say, "Gather around girls, I am through playing games. It's time for you to get the full picture. Settle in for a story, this one is kind of long."

About 800 years ago, during Princess Luna's banishment, Celestia took on her sister's responsibility by raising both the sun and the moon. On top of that she was solely responsible for ruling Equestria. Among her courtiers was a small council of the most powerful unicorn mages. Through diligent study and practical application they had all achieved the rank of 'Archmagus.'

After 200 years of ruling alone, coupled with the grief of her sister's banishment, the Princess was fatigued. She would often go weeks without sleep or food of any kind. Though a goddess, having a corporeal form added the necessity of taking care of her immortal body. At one point she collapsed under the strain of her own abuse and was relegated to medical treatment for an extended period. Nopony could tell exactly how long because the sun and the moon refused to move. They were each trapped on a different horizon and the world was trapped in a twilit haze, and nopony could distinguish between day and night.

The council met in secret to discuss how to deal with their sovereign's illness. The Council of Thirteen, as they were called, decided that the power vacuum needed to be filled. As many powerful magicians are, there were several on the council who were ambitious. They decided that one of the council members should be granted the title of 'Lord Regent' until such time as Princess was ready to return to her royal duties.

One stallion rose above the rest. He was a powerful battlemage who had never known defeat in combat. His name was Archmagus Star Burst. Rumor stated that he was so strong that he could pull a star out of the heavens to strike down his foes; however, his cruelty was just as well known as his strength. The remaining members of the council refused to bestow the regency to him for fear that he would mold it into a military state. Instead the council selected a master of the healing arts to take the position.

Archmagus Healing Hooves was a compassionate and wise old stallion whom the council believed would lead Equestria into an era of peace and prominence; however, his reign as regent would only last for an estimated ten days. He was found dead in his chambers, with a snake bite prominently visible on his neck (at that time healers would often use diluted snake venom as a last resort purgative). Nopony yet suspected foul play.

The council reconvened to establish the next regent. This time, they selected a mage by the name of Foxglove. She was a kindly mare who specialized in botany and biological magic. Her temperament closely resembled Healing Hooves and the motion was carried unanimously. Except for Star Burst abstaining.

Despite her new position, Foxglove still desired to spend her time in the surrounding Everfree Forest to investigate the wildlife thriving in the strange forest so in tune with nature's magic. One day she went into the forest with a small escort, but none of them returned. A search party returned with a blood stained cloak that Lady Foxglove had worn when she left. Officially the search was called off and her death was attributed to a large animal. Once again the country was without a leader, and the council, now eleven strong, convened to determine a successor.

This time, Star Burst stood up in front of the council and made his speech.

"Each of the regents this council has chosen has not lasted more than a month due to their own negligence or weakness. Additionally, the death of Archmagus Foxglove has proven that there are dangers outside of this fortress that need to be dealt with. This council can no longer risk the lives of the ponies under our charge to a weak ruler. This country needs strength and resilience. We don't need a doctor or a scholar! We need a soldier!"

The council calmly allowed him his tirade. The chamber echoed with silence until the oldest member of the council let out a soft chuckle. Grand-magus Grimoire continued to laugh until it echoed throughout the entire chamber. With tears in his eyes he glanced at Star Burst with eyes barely visible under his thick white eyebrows.

"Son, it seems to me that you are implying that you are the one best suited for the task. Am I right?"

His words were clearly a challenge, but Star Burst responded, "I believe that I am the one who will be best to ensure the safety of the ponies under my sovereignty. Nothing more."

"And that is exactly why you will never have the regency as long as I draw breath. A true leader does not crave power. A true leader makes the best of it when power is thrust upon him." His voice then lost all joviality and became sharp. "I feel that you are not suited for this position. In fact, I believe that you are not fit to even serve on this council. My friends, I motion for adjourning this meeting and reconvening in three days time (by now they had constructed a water clock in order to keep track of the time) to select the next regent."

With that the council filed out of the chamber, leaving only Star Burst standing dumbfounded at the table.

After leaving the chamber, the Grand-magus hobbled over to the youngest member of the council and requested that he follow him. The pair walked to the castle gardens and sat upon a bench in a grove of various fruit trees. With a small pulse from his horn, the garden grew silent.

"Now my boy, tell me what you think of Star's little rant. Don't worry, my spell will keep anyone from eavesdropping on us."

The young Archmagus was a prodigy. He was a master of enchantment and alchemy who was renown for his elegant craftsmanship and brilliant designs. Even though the Grand-magus was treating him like a kindly grandfather, he was still thoroughly intimidated by the power the old man still possessed.

"Well Grand-magus, I don't like it. He sounds like he wants to go to war. I fear that he won't back down once the Princess has recovered. I've seen him training the guards. He is ruthless and cruel to them. I understand that their job is difficult and they need discipline, but I could see in his eyes that he enjoyed being cruel. He will do anything to hold on to that power."

The old pony nodded sagely at the insightful remarks. "I fear the same thing. That is why I am turning to you for help. I am sorry, Midas, but you may be the only one who can save us all. I am an old stallion, and that warmongering villain is regrettably intelligent. He will not suspect you, nor will he fear you. Your branch of magic relies on physical objects to manifest fully. He is blinded by his own power and can only see the merit of the internal magic that he utilized. So I ask you, please find a way to restore balance to Equestria."

The young pony, barely even an adult by their standards, trembled at the heavy burden that was being thrust upon him. He had no idea how he was going to manage this colossal challenge. With a large gulp he stared at his superior and said, "I will do all that I can."

With a kind smile the older stallion rose from the bench and said warmly, "I am sure that it will be more than enough."

Three days later, the council reconvened. This time, only five members were still present. The other six were all the victims of assassination, including Grand-magus Grimoire. Star Burst proudly trotted into the room. There was no doubt that he was the culprit, but there was no evidence to convict him and no higher authority to judge him. He smiled wickedly at the few remaining council members and boldly sat in the former Grand-magus' gilded chair. He propped his hind legs on the table and remarked conversationally, "In the matter of the position of Lord Regent, I nominate myself. Any objections?" He glanced viciously around the table and heard not a word of opposition. With a wide grin he stated, "That settles that, you are all dismissed."

The young enchanter remembered the words from his meeting with the Grand-magus. He was deathly afraid of the new Lord Regent, but he needed a way to remove him from his throne. If Celestia were at full strength she could do it, but she was already being tended by the best physicians in Equestria and he couldn't do anything more than heal a cut or a bruise. There was no higher authority than the goddess. Without her, the Regent's word was absolute.

For the next few days he wracked his brain, trying to think of some way to end his sadistic reign. Star Burst had already mandated a mandatory draft of all stallions of fighting capability to prepare for an extermination of deadly creatures in the Everfree Forest. The light of combat was in his eyes and nothing but bloodshed was going to sate his lust.

Midas was so afraid that he rarely slept. His young wife feared for his health. Even though she was tired and heavy with foal, she dragged him into bed and sang to him:

"Alone on the ground,
She stares at the moon,
She waits for the one who hid her away.

Her tears are the seas,
Her sighs are the clouds,
But she yearns for the one who hid her away.

The stars hear her cry,
They give her new wings,
To find the one who hid her away."

It was a beautiful song, and her beautiful voice was one of the features that drew them together in the first place. He soon dozed off in the hooves of his wife, grinning as unconsciousness took him. She had given him the answer, and he would need his rest for the work ahead.

He spent the next week in his workshop. He employed every skill that his craft had taught him and eventually he would bask in the fruit of his labor. Before him, polished to a bright sparkle, was an elaborately decorated necklace. It was solid gold with a golden clasp. A bright pure sapphire was housed in a golden frame. Out of the top rose the golden head of a unicorn, and spreading on either side were golden wings with tips of purest white gold. It was a beautiful piece of jewelry, but the enchantments that he had embedded into it were beyond some of the wildest dreams of his peers. But who was fit to receive it?

For the next few days, he wandered the castle and the surrounding towns looking for a suitable candidate. The spell required a unicorn to trigger it, but there seemed to be a plethora of those in the royal court. The next stipulation was a bit more difficult to find.

One day, while continuing his search, he was approached by a pair of royal guards. They stated that the Lord Regent requested his presence immediately. The pair escorted him into the throne room where Star Burst was seated calmly in the Princess' throne, leaving the regent's chair empty.

"Midas Touch! I am quite surprised at you. Almost two months into my reign and you have yet to come to me. All of the other council members came to me immediately. Mostly to beg for their lives and that of their families. I was in a good mood, so I was generous...mostly. You on the other hand are trying my patience. I expected a weakling like you to grovel at my hooves immediately."

Sensing a trap, Midas said, "Your Excellency has yet to convene the council. My contribution was minor and I was the least experienced member. I had simply assumed that you had no use of me."

Star Burst grinned wickedly, "Or maybe you were working on a way to usurp me. Perchance to see how you fared when you must bring balance to Equestria." Midas blanched as he emphasized the last four words. Star Burst continued, "Oh yes, I know all about your little conversation with the former Grand-magus. What I don't know, is what you have been scheming about in the workshop these last few weeks."

He nodded to one of the guards who ripped Midas' saddlebag off and tossed it to their commander. He riffled through the bags until he found something that piqued his interest. Pulling the necklace out, he cheered, "Now what is this?! Such a shiny piece of art!"

He paused as he studied the trinket carefully, then returned his malicious grin to Midas. "I sense great power in this amulet, but I can't distinguish the enchantment. What tricks are you up to, Midas? If you created something that boosts power, then you would have used it yourself."

"It is a gift for the Princess. Nothing more."

"I'm not calling you a liar, I'm just saying that I don't believe you. Something tells me that you need a bit more motivation."

He gave a sharp whistle and another guard emerged from a side passage, dragging a struggling earth pony mare. She was clearly scared... and noticeable pregnant. Midas cried out as he recognized his wife. He ran over to free his wife from the stallion guarding her, but Star Burst flicked his horn casually and Midas' hooves sank into the floor as if it was made of molasses. Crying in rage and struggling with all his might, Midas was still unable to free himself from the snare. Star Burst walked leisurely toward the mare gloating, "Once again you disappoint me. You are an Archmagus! And yet you are still so weak. I'm sure you have heard the rumors of my favorite spell." He closed his eyes and channeled an enormous amount of energy to his horn. "You have two minutes before I crush your precious wife under a burning star. Now talk!"

Midas held no doubts that Star Burst would do as he promised. He rapidly explained the nature of his creation. "It is intended to give the wearer the power of a god. Whoever wears it will gain untold magical power. I have been searching to find one who was worthy to wield its power. I wanted to find someone who was already powerful, but who was kind and compassionate. Someone who would rule by Celestia's side and bring peace and harmony to this land."

Clearly satisfied with the answer, Star Burst ended the spell and stared at the amulet once again. "Well I guess you can't always have what you want. It will have to settle for me." He unlatched the clasp and put on the amulet. Immediately, he was caught up in a dazzling white light and slowly levitated off the floor.

"I can feel it! I can feel the power surging through me! This is what a god feels! I AM AAARRRGGGGHHHH!!!!"

He doubled over in pain and glared crazily at the stallion still stuck in the floor. "What did you do?! IT HURTS!"

Midas smirked, "The amulet must choose its master. You are not pure of heart, thus it rejects you. It can feel your cruelty, and so you are being punished."

Star Burst started laughing insanely. "You think this is over? I still have one more surprise!" He pulled out a small pouch from his breastplate. He poured out a fine midnight blue powder onto the amulet, and the powder clung to the metal. The gold turned to black. The white to red. And with a great flash, the sapphire became a blood red ruby. The gem pulsed with light and Star Burst gently alighted on the ground.

"The dust ground from a feather of Nightmare Moon herself. Your secret weapon has failed you. Now you will pay for crossing me. Any last words?" His voice rumbled as if it was coming from the very depths or Tartarus.

He had nearly doubled in size and his horn ended in a long, sharp point. Despite the intimidating figure, Midas maintained his smirk.

"Did you notice how bright it is in here?"

Glancing behind him, Star Burst saw the sun proudly blazing high in the sky. A shower of flames arched down from the heavens, blasting through the large window behind the throne. The flames wrapped around him, but he didn't scream. Instead he glared at Midas. "This amulet will be a curse upon your family. As long as it lives, then so will I. My soul will rest until one of great power shall wield it. When that time comes, I will live again."

Two black tendrils leaped from his mouth. One drove itself right into Midas' forehead, and the other flew straight into his wife's pregnant belly. There was no pain, but Star Burst still wore his crazy smile as his body burned to ash and the amulet fell to the floor with a dull "clang."

"If you haven't guessed yet, Midas Touch was my distant ancestor. Star Burst's curse has ensured that a male would be born to continue the bloodline until he could find a suitable host. Celestia returned just in time and locked up the amulet for good. Sadly nothing lasts forever. It was stolen several times and eventually the trail went cold. My family has been charged with protecting the amulet until such time as it could be destroyed. I had established myself as a toymaker in Ponyville because my informants said this was the last place it was seen. When I heard that Zecora was the last one to possess it, I made my way to her home in order to procure it... by any means necessary."

Six ponies stare at me with gaping mouths and wide eyes. Pinkie was the only one unaffected because she got bored halfway through the story and went into the kitchen to make breakfast. Twilight was the first one to snap out of her stupor.

"Wait a minute. There is no such thing as curses. We've already been through this before." I raise an eyebrow at her and say, "Oh, curses are very much real, Princess Sparkle. Would it help if I provided some evidence to support my claim?"

She hesitates then nods.

"Very well," I turn to Derpy and close my eyes, "Derpy, of all the ponies in this room, you've known me the longest. Tell me, what color are my eyes?"

Derpy pauses for a moment, thinking. "You know something? I honestly have no idea."

"Then take a look." I slowly open my eyes. She screams and jumps back in shock.

"What in Equestria are you?!"

"This is the sign of my curse." Ever since I was born, my irises never stayed one color. All the colors of the rainbow merged and shifted in a dancing kaleidoscope. Part of the reason I enchanted the ceiling of the shop was so that nopony would notice if my primary defense failed. "My hat is enchanted to prevent ponies from noticing. It also hides my cutie mark. Amazing how nopony ever asked me about my cutie mark?" As I spoke they all look to my flank and see a white shield with three interlocking circles within it. It is the mark of an enchanter. The red ring symbolizes the object uses for an enchantment. The blue for the magic needed to sustain it. The gold symbolizes the skill and spirit of the magician who crafts it.

Twilight remained unimpressed. "But hiding that stuff is just magic. It isn't a curse. I'll admit that your eyes are a little... unnatural, but that doesn't mean that you are somehow mystically bonded to an ancient artifact by the will of a malevolent spirit."

"There's more."

"What?"

"My family is linked to the amulet. The spirit of Star Burst draws power by infecting the wearer with his corruption. Every time it's used, his power grows. That same corruption is passed down through my bloodline, and it grows as well. Three years ago, when Trixie used it against you, I felt it. The darkness grew inside me. It was quite painful, but the pain is nothing compared to the madness. I can still hear his voice. I still remember what he said. 'Fermos kommerach.'"

"'The end cometh.' That's High Middle Equestrian! It hasn't been spoken in-"

"Six hundred years. I know."

She ponders my words, but says nothing. Obviously she wants to argue but is having a hard time crafting an argument. I continued, "That explains what I was doing in the forest last night. Now that we have the 'why' out of the way, I believe that we should move on to the 'what now' question. That monster took Dinky and we need to find her. If we can get to the amulet first, then he will be forced to come to us."

"Then I shall follow at your side, for you will certainly need a guide."

All eyes flash to the stairs as Zecora easily walks down from Twilight's bedroom. Her wounds had completely healed and she seems to be at peak health. Zebras are pretty tough I guess. Everypony smiles as Zecora joins with the Elements of Harmony.The only one who doesn't seem relieved is Derpy. She had been quiet throughout the story and remained silent except for the whole "kaleidoscope eyes" incident. As the others crowd around Zecora, I manage to get off the couch and sit down next to her (I guess I must be getting over the magical exhaustion).

"I'm sorry, Derpy. I never thought she would chase after me. In fact, I don't know how she knew where I was going to be." Derpy continues to stare at the floor, saying nothing.

"But I swear to you, here and now, by Celestia's sweet supple flank, that I will find her and bring her home." I gently lifted her head so she could look me in the eyes. I gave her what I hoped was a look of unbreakable determination. "All the demons in Tartarus couldn't keep me from reuniting your family."

Derpy puts on a weak smile. Her eyes start to water slightly. "I know you will. Do you know why I'm so sure? Because... she's your family too." Her words strike me like a blow from a hammer. I had never thought of Dinky as a daughter or niece or sister. But the more I thought about it, the more her words rang true. Dinky and Derpy have always treated me like family.

"I don't appreciate such a flippant reference to my posterior, Baron Touch, but I will allow it for the sake of conveying your serious intentions."

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna emerge from a large paining of Canterlot which covers the only bare wall space in the library. I bow deeply, as did all of the other ponies except for Twilight (I guess she is finally learning how to play the princess game). Celestia gestures for all of us to gather together and continues, "I can verify the Baron's story. When I was ill, there was a very bloody struggle to gain power in my absence. When my strength had fully recovered, I rushed to aid the young Midas and destroyed Star Burst. I deemed the Alicorn Amulet to be tainted and unfit for it's intended purpose, but I respected the gesture and the faith of the Touch family. Sadly, there was nothing I could do about the curse -yes Twilight, it really is a curse- so I did the next best thing. I gave the family land and title, with all the resources to protect and research the amulet until such time as it could be destroyed or reformed. Even as I wielded the Elements of Harmony, the Amulet couldn't be purified. The project was eventually abandoned."

I cough, then say sheepishly, "Um, Princess? That isn't exactly true."

"Oh? What do you mean by that Baron Touch?"

"The Touch family has continued to research the Amulet throughout the generations. I have discovered how the Amulet can be destroyed, but it was lost when my great-grandfather was head of the family. I am sure the spell I have devised will work, but without the actual Amulet to study, it is strictly theoretical."

Princess Luna spoke up for the first time since she arrived, "There is no time to waste. Thou needst destroy this accursed talisman with all haste!"

"My sister is right. As this is a matter of national security, we shall both accompany you to retrieve it."

I can't believe they are offering to come in person, but having two immortal goddesses around wouldn't hurt. I nod my acceptance and put on my usual cheerful smile. Things were starting to come together. FOR ONCE!

"We shall return to Canterlot and alert the guards and stewards of our absence. No need to scare them by thinking we were foalnapped or abandoned them."

"Please, Tia? Can we not do it just this once? It would please me to see Lieutenants Blitzkrieg and Stalwart get their tails in a bow!"

Applejack deadpanned, "Don'tcha mean 'get their tails inna knot'?"

Luna claps her hooves gleefully, "That sounds even less pleasant! Please, sister!?"

Celestia lets loose a mighty sigh, "No, sister. We will not cause nationwide panic and civil unrest over a silly little prank."

"That's not what you said when you bribed Discord to-"

She was interrupted as Celestia threw her bodily into the portal before following. With the two of them on our quest, I know there is no possible way that we can fail! Nothing will possibly go wrong!... yeah, right...

Author's Note

This chapter is a bit long and a bit heavy for my usual style. It was necessary because the story had to be told. Soon we will be getting back to my more lighthearted style. Shout out to Templar22, the person who seems to like my work the most.

Things Get (More) Serious

"Baron Touch?! Darling, you failed to mention that you were nobility. Unless I misheard, Princess Celestia also mentioned that you are the holder of a sizable estate. I would very much love to see it, at your nearest convenience of course."

As soon as the Princesses had vanished though the portal, Rarity turned to Finn with a predatory glint in her eye. She gracefully slunk towards the recently revealed noble and batted her half lidded eyes a few times. Her voice progressively grew deeper and more sensual. Finn thought to himself, So 'noble' is her trigger word. Definitely a socialite. Very pretty, but that look she's giving me belongs on a hungry tigress. Better play it safe for now.

"Of course you are all invited to join us at the villa once this mess is resolved, but I fear we must focus on our main problem at the moment. Having the Princesses will be a great boon for our quest, but the enemy has a head start and unknown resources at their disposal."

Twilight asked, "Tell me Finn, do you know anything about what we are up against? Did that Zero guy give you any details?"

"Not much I'm afraid. He did mention that he was part of an organization called the Apocalypse Corps. Have you ever heard of them?"

Twilight wrinkled her brow in concentration. The name sounded familiar, but she couldn't place where she had heard it before. "I'm not sure. I'll have to do some research before the princesses return." Her stomach rumbled loudly. She sheepishly rubbed the offending organ with a free hoof and stated, "Although, I believe that can wait until after breakfast. Pinkie has been in there for a while now so it shouldn't be long."

At that moment a loud ding was heard from the kitchen followed by a scream as a smoking object shot through the doorway. It crashed into the opposite wall with a muffled thud, shaking the books in the shelves. Everypony looked to see a baby dragon covered in black soot.

"Can't a guy get any sleep around here? A dragon can't even sleep in his own oven without being part of some shenanigans." He brushed himself off and used his claws to put out a small flame on the tip of his tail.

Pinkie poked her head out of the doorway and said, "You just looked so cute that I didn't want to wake you up. So I just left you alone."

Twilight rounded on her, "Pinkie, why would you turn on the oven if Spike was inside?!"

"How else was I supposed to bake the muffins, silly?" At the mention of muffins Derpy's ears twitched excitedly, but her expression remained somber. Pinkie continued, "Besides, dragons are fireproof."

"Yeah, but my pillow wasn't," Spike grumbled.

"Annnnnyway, breakfast is ready everypony!"

Everypony started filing into the kitchen, but Finn called out, "Princess, I think I will go back to my shop to retrieve some supplies instead. That way I will be ready whenever Princesses Celestia and Luna return." Twilight considered his statement. She was still not too sure about his part in this, but she nodded nonetheless. "I think that would be a good idea, Finn."

As he turned to walk out the front door, Derpy trotted up next to him and called over her shoulder, "I'm going with him." Someone, probably Rainbow Dash, called back, "We aren't saving you any food!"

Derpy looked horrified for a second, but Finn patted her gently, "I'm pretty sure she's joking, but you really don't have to come with me."

"Yes, I do. We still have some things to talk about."

Finn nodded his understanding and the pair walked out into Ponyville just as its residents were beginning to awaken. They made the entire trip in an awkward silence. This is weird,Finn thought. I have never had an awkward moment in my life. Especially not with one of my closest friends. They soon made it to his shop and let themselves into Finn's private quarters in the back. Derpy set herself on the couch and Finn walked over to the fireplace. Finally having enough of the silence, Finn heaved a tired sigh.

"I know I can't say it enough, Derpy, but I really am sorry. I let you both down when you needed me most. If it wasn't for my stupid family and this stupid curse, you would both be home right now. Maybe it would have been better if she had never met-" Derpy smacked him right in the face. Shock registered on his face at the wrath that radiated from her. He didn't even notice her get off the couch.

"Don't you EVER say that! She adores you, Finn!" Tears sprung to her eyes for what felt like the thousandth time that morning. Her voice softened. "You were the first real friend that she has had in a long time.You made her feel special, and that is more anypony has ever done for her." She threw her hooves around his neck and held him tightly. "That's why I know that you will get her back. Since she never got to know her father, you were the closest thing that she ever had. I know you feel the same way about her that I do."

Both of them clung together for a while. Neither wanted to let the other go from the comforting embrace. Eventually, Finn cleared his throat and said, "Now I want to show you something, Derpy."

Gently nudging her aside, he lit his horn and cleaned all the soot and ash from the fireplace with a brief flash, leaving only the bare stones of the hearth. Horn still aglow, he touched the tip to the stones which rippled then vanished. In the place where they stood was an indention deep in the floor which housed a large wooden chest. With another magical tug, he lifted the chest free from the hidden compartment and deposited it in front of him. With a creak, Finn opened the box to reveal the treasure within.

"Derpy, these are the most powerful tools that I have ever constructed. With them I am three times more powerful than I was when I last faced Zero. Nothing will stop me this time." Her eyes were wide as he lifted each item in turn. The first was a vest made of deep purple velvet. He donned the vest and gave an impromptu bow. Next he removed a top hat that was the same color as the vest. This one was a bit bigger than the one that she was used to seeing him wear. This one fit loosely on his head, but it held in place due to the holes where his ears and horn fit through. He placed it on his head and moved to the last item in the box. Reaching in, he reverently raised a smaller box about the size of a serving tray and placed it on top of the lid of the larger chest.

"Time to wake up, my old friends."

He removed the lid, revealing three objects wrapped in cloth. Finn gently unwrapped each to reveal a miniature silver crow, a coiled copper snake, and a turtle cut from a large emerald. Finn leaned closer to the figures. Derpy waited for something spectacular to happen. She watched closely, eyes (well one at least) riveted on the scene.

Finn took a deep breath and yelled, "GOOD MORNING!" Derpy jumped in surprise but was rewarded as the figures began to twitch. The crow hopped up and ruffled his metallic feathers, catching glints of sunlight on its shiny wings. The serpent uncoiled and stretched to its full height. The turtle didn't really do anything though.

Finn beamed, "Good morning gang! Let me introduce you to a good friend of mine. Derpy, this is Falco," The crow inclined his head, "and this is Freida," the snake nodded, "and lastly Siegfried," the turtle retracted its limbs back into its crystalline shell. "Don't worry about him, he is a bit shy. Alright everyone, we have a mission. An unknown foe is after the Alicorn Amulet and a little filly was foalnapped by said foe. I for one will not stand for it, and so I have called upon you to help me fight this injustice! Will you stand with me on the field of battle once more? What say you?"

"Until the bitter end, Master!" came an enthusiastic caw.

Derpy jumped right to the ceiling and had to flutter her wings to avoid landing on her rump. "Did-did-did that crow just TALK?!"

"Indeed I did, milady. How else would we shatter our enemies spirits if not for a formidable battle cry?"

Freida shook her head and let out a sigh, "You are incorrigible. Master, it appearsss that we are missssing Klausss." Finn paled visibly and abruptly facehoofed. "I knew I was forgetting something."

A deep, elderly voice echoed from Siegfried's shell, "You could always use the hat."

"Brilliant idea Siegfried!" Finn whipped the hat off of his head and reached in with a free hoof. His leg reached in much further than should have been physically possible, but with a swift tug he pulled it back and somehow Klaus was dangling from his hoof. He leaped onto the upturned brim, crossed his arms, and started tapping his foot impatiently.

"I'm sorry, Klaus," Finn apologized sheepishly, "I didn't have much choice in the matter. I was unconscious after all." The primate softened and jumped onto his friend. He wrapped his whole body around Finn's muzzle in a quick hug. With a grin, Finn returned the hat to his head and said, "Climb aboard old friend." Klaus grabbed hold of Finn's mane and swung himself onto the brim of the hat before tucking himself into the band. "That goes for the rest of you too."

Finn reached out and grabbed Frieda by the tail. She bit down on Siegfried in response. With a flash, they fused together to become an emerald pocket-watch with a copper chain. Finn tucked the watch into his vest pocket and latched the chain onto the vest's buttons. with a flourish, Falco fluttered to the base of his neck and shifted into a dazzling silver bow tie.

When all of the transformations were complete, Finn gave Derpy one of his most alluring smiles and quipped, "Do I look good, or what?"

Derpy responded by rolling on the floor, laughing uncontrollably.

"It really isn't that funny."

Derpy continued to laugh as they made their way back to the library. Every time she calmed down, she would simply glance at Finn and the fit would begin anew. Finn glared at his friend as she managed to choke out, "You just look so goofy!" As they walked through the streets of Ponyville, several snickers seemed to confirm her opinion. He simply huffed indignantly.

Suddenly, they heard a shout from one of the stalls in the market. A beige pony operating a flower stand pointed off in the distance, and the pair turned to follow her gaze. The only thing they noticed was Canterlot in the distance. Normally it would just be a part of the scenery, but today there was a green glow above the city. Tendrils of green branched from the apex and crept down, fully encasing the town in a glowing green cage. Finn and Derpy gaped at the sight. Neither knew what to make of the display before them. A sickly gold light oozed from between the tendrils, sealing the city inside. A loud boom echoed from the city, and it vanished from sight.

"Derpy?"

"Huh?"

"Tell me that didn't happen."

"I don't even know what happened."

"We're screwed."

"Uh huh."

"TwilightTwilightTwilightTwilightTwilightTwilightTwilightTwilightTwilightTWILIGHT!!!"

Derpy crashed through the window, showering glass all over the library floor. Fortunately, she landed on one of the soft reading couches. Soon after, Finn flung the door open roughly, panting as he trudged into the glass littered library. Twilight sat at her desk, levitating seven books in a lavender colored corona of magic. Surprisingly, she was still unaware of the duo's entrance into her home.

Wow, nothing breaks her focus.

Finn walked over to the purple alicorn, picked up a book resting on the desk and loudly snapped it shut. Twilight jumped and glanced blearily at him. Derpy flew right into her face and cried, "Twilight! Canterlot gone. POOF! No princesses! BIG TROUBLE!"

Twilight blinked several times in confusion. "Derpy, what did you even say?" Derpy looked desperately at Finn, silently pleading to help convey her message. Finn gently placed a hoof on Twilight's withers and said, "Princess, I think you should see this." Instead of leading her outside, he marched upstairs and led her out to the balcony.

"Finn, what exactly am I supposed to be seeing?"

He pointed a hoof toward the now empty mountain and calmly asked, "Anything off about this picture?"

Twilight's eyes widened in shock and she clasped a hoof over her mouth to muffle a scream. With a brief flash she teleported back inside screaming, "SPIKE! SPIIIIKE!" Finn and Derpy rushed inside to find her furiously writing on a piece of parchment. Spike slid into the room still clutching a broom and wearing a pink apron.

"Letter! Celestia! NOW!"

Without a second though he snatched up the letter and breathed out a small tongue of fire. The flame consumed the parchment, but the ashes simply fell to the floor.

"No no no no no! This is very bad! I can't reach her!"

Derpy grabbed her by the shoulders and started shaking her. "Get a hold of yourself! You are supposed to be the one in control here. This is no time to freak out!"

Apparently the violent shaking was exactly what Twilight needed, but her eyes still rolled dizzily in her head as a result. She took a deep breath, placed her hoof to her chest, and slowly exhaled as she extended her hoof outward. This seemed to calm her down considerably.

All progress was lost as a crash of thunder echoed from the sky. All three of them rushed back onto the balcony to see a giant thundercloud looming over Ponyville. Red lightening crackled across its bottom, but no rain fell from it. It just loomed menacingly above them. Suddenly, the cloud started swirling until it reformed into a familiar face and spoke with a now familiar voice.

"My my Finishing Touch, it appears that you do have friends in high places. Not one, but three princesses willing to crusade for your cause! Pardon me for evening the odds a bit. Can't have a pair of immortals interfering in our game."

Finn snarled, "Zero, is that all this is to you? Are the lives of countless ponies just pawns in your so called game?"

"Not quite, Finishing Touch. You are the only pawn on this board. Remember, if a pawn makes it across the board, then it can become whatever piece it wants. The board is set for you, and time waits for nopony." He paused as if in thought. "Oh, by the way, my superiors wish to make some demands of you. Procure the Alicorn Amulet and return it to Ponyville by the night of the full moon and we will release Canterlot and return your precious filly. Fail, and Ponyville will suffer the same fate that has befallen Canterlot."

Derpy gulped audibly, "What, exactly, happened to Canterlot?"

"Eh? Who's the mare, Finishing Touch? She's cute, but the eyes are a little too crazy even for me."

"Answer her question!"

"Geez, touchy!" He smirked at his pun, then his voice took on a tone of absolute boredom, "my associates have locked the city away in a pocket dimension that is untraceable and unapproachable from our own. Fortunately, there is enough of a connection for the princesses to manipulate the celestial bodies as usual. Blah, blah, blah, magic. Anyway, you have our demands. Tick tock, Finishing Touch! One last thing. Little Dinky is just a doll! We have become such fast friends, but it looks like she certainly misses you. If screaming your name constantly is any indication." His face scrunched into a serpentine sneer. "Her tears are delicious."

Finn's face burned red with rage. He cried at the apparition, "Burn in Tartarus you sadistic psychopath!" He shot a blast of magic into the cloud with a sound like a cannon. Zero's laughter echoed as the cloud broke apart and dispersed on the wind. After a few seconds, silence reclaimed the town. Except for the weeping of a gray pegasus.

The Journey Begins

"What are we going to do?! What are we going to do?!"

Twilight paced frantically on the balcony, but her fluttering wings kept her hovering a few inches off the floor. In her panic she didn't even notice. Her eyes flitted around crazily and her mane suddenly looked like birds had taken up residence.

"Princess, is Derpy going to have to shake you again?"

She touched back down and took a few deep breaths, gesturing with her hoof as she had done before. "No, I don't think that will be necessary."

A voice rang up from the ground, "Hey guys, what the heck was that all about?" Rainbow Dash and her friends had all gathered in front of the library with their saddlebags fully packed for the journey. Twilight and Derpy both glided down to explain their new situation. Finn opted to take the stairs.

Once on the ground, Twilight had already explained the situation. The group argued about what step to take next. A shrill whistle shot out from the group and all eyes turned to Applejack.

"Now Ah don't rightly understand what's goin' on, but Ah think we should listen to Finn and Twilight. They both know a mite more about magic than the rest of us." She turned to face Finn. "Alright, sugarcube, ya seem'ta know the most about them varmints. What do ya think we should do?"

Finn was slightly taken aback by the apple farmer's trust. "These ponies have already taken one city. Like you rightly said, Twilight is the only one who is skilled enough with magic to fix what has happened to Canterlot. If that fails, she is also the only one powerful enough to prevent Ponyville from being captured. How long do we have until the next full moon?"

"Eight days," Twilight responded, "but what are you planning?"

Finn looked soulfully at Twilight, channeling every iota of charisma that he possibly possessed. "I think that the Elements of Harmony should stay and defend Ponyville. I will go ahead with Zecora to get the Amulet. That way-"

"Over my dead body!" shrieked Derpy. She stared him dead in the eye, so close that their faces were touching. "After what that monster just said, you expect me to let you go alone while Dinky suffers? No chance! I'm going with you, and don't even think about stopping me!"

Everypony was flabbergasted, because nopony had ever heard Derpy speak like that. All Finn could do was plead, "Please stay, Derpy. Both Zecora and I are very skilled magicians, but we might not be able to defend you from everything."

Derpy glared at him, and in a level, menacing voice she said, "Are you saying that I can't take care of myself, Finishing Touch?"

Finn knew he was in trouble. She hadn't used his full name since they first met. Bringing up her disability would only grant him a one way ticket to the undertaker. Besides, having a pegasus around could be very useful. He mentally debated every manner of tact and approach that he could possibly conceive of, but ultimately he came to a depressing conclusion. He would have to be honest.

"Derpy, I know that you can take care of yourself out here, but I have no idea where we are going or what we are going to be up against. Quite frankly, I'm terrified. If something were to happen to you, I don't know what I would do or what I would tell Dinky. Please, please, please don't make me have to go through losing somepony else."

He spoke the last sentence in a whisper, and Derpy's gaze softened slightly. Apparently not enough.

"Listen good, Baron Touch! I am not letting you out of my sight! All I know for sure is that my little filly is scared to death and waiting for us. I don't care if I have to crawl my way through the darkest pits of the Underworld. I will find a way to get her back, with or without you! So would you rather have me along, or would you rather me go off by myself?"

He knew she would do it too, so he hung his head in defeat. "Alright, Derpy. You can come with us."

"Whoa, whoa, whoa," Rainbow protested, "What makes you think that we are going to stay here either?"

"Do what he says, Rainbow." Five pairs of eyes shot towards Twilight.

"What are you saying, Twilight? These goons are threatening our town! Not to mention taking Dinky and the entire city of Canterlot! Why would we sit on our hooves and do nothing?"

Twilight stood resolutely and explained slowly, "Look girls, I want to help as much as anypony, but Finn is right. The Elements should remain in Ponyville just in case. If those creeps try to move in early or if Canterlot reappears, then somepony needs to be here to help." She cringed slightly and added, "Besides, as a princess, it is my duty to maintain order at all cost. I only hope that I do everything right."

As much as the others wanted to protest, they accepted Twilight's logic. They gathered around her to reassure her that she would do a wonderful job. Twilight then turned her attention back to Finn and Derpy.

"Zecora went back into the Everfree Forest to gather some supplies for the journey. I hate to put a burden like this on your shoulders, but I want you to know that Equestria is counting on you."

"So no pressure, right?" Finn quipped.

She remained deadly serious. "Is there anything at all that we can do for you? Anything that you need?"

Finn considered her offer. Rarely does one get the chance to make a request of royalty. He considered asking for something ridiculous like an inflatable igloo or a flea-sized piano, but the serious atmosphere made him reconsider. There was always next time after all.

"I don't need anything except what I have on." Rarity flinched at his mention of his gaudy apparel.

"How about you Derpy?"

"Just a toothbrush and a comb." Then she pawed at the ground sheepishly. "Maybe a few muffins for the road."

"Say no more," cried Pinkie Pie. She pulled out a tan saddlebag and placed it on Derpy's back.

Derpy thanked her and Twilight continued, "Zecora said she would meet us on the path that leads to the ruins of the abandoned castle. Derpy knows where it is, so you should have no problem getting there. Even I don't know where Zecora hid the Amulet, so listen to her. She is very wise, and she knows the forest better than anypony."

"Thank you, Princess. We won't let you down," Finn said. Derpy then leaped forward and pulled everyone into a group hug. They broke apart and the pair started walking off down the path to the Everfree Forest.

As soon as they were out of sight, Fluttershy asked, "Do you think they are going to be alright?"

Rarity responded, "Have faith, dear Fluttershy. They can take care of themselves. Though I do feel like the Baron should probably not be allowed to dress himself. Silver should never be used as an accent for that shade of purple. It was so gaudy I almost tore it off on the spot."

"Don't get yer tail in a twist. Them two look like they got it together."

Rainbow still looked nervously at each of her friends. "Guys, you do realize this is Derpy we are talking about? She means well, but she's kind of a hazard. Do you think Finn can handle her?"

Twilight placed a reassuring hoof on Rainbow's shoulder. "I think she will be just fine. In fact, I'm willing to bet that Finn will be glad that he brought her along."

"Finn! A little help please!"

Finn sighed. They had finally made it to the edge of the forest and Derpy had gotten herself stuck on a tree branch...again. He lit his horn and slid the saddlebag off of the offending branch so that Derpy could leap off. Finn held his face in his hoof and moaned, "Derpy, why do you insist on flying into the trees if you keep getting stuck?"

Derpy blushed slightly, "I just want to help. I want to keep an eye out for Zecora or anything that might cause us trouble."

"Well don't do it in the forest. I don't want us to get separated once we get in there."

He trotted onto the path, but Derpy pulled him back. "Hold on. Shouldn't we wait for Zecora. Twilight said that she would meet us on the path."

"There is no need to wait. My timing is just that great." Zecora stepped out from the shade of a nearby tree and walked over to the pair. She had acquired a satchel thrown over her shoulders and a small pouch hung around her neck. Strapped across her back was a strange staff with unusual markings running down the entire length of the rod. The wood looked smooth, but it was pitted with grooves that looked like termites had burrowed through it. Something about it made Finn uneasy.

"That wasn't very poetic, Zecora," Finn smirked, trying to cover up his discomfort.

"While pretty verse is nice, simple rhyme will suffice. It appears our party is missing somepony. Where are the Elements of Harmony?"

"They stayed behind to defend the town. The enemy has captured Canterlot and has marked Ponyville as the next target. "

If the news surprised Zecora, she didn't show it. "This news you bring is very dire. How do we fix this quagmire?"

"It's up to us to get the Alicorn Amulet by the night of the next full moon. So if you would kindly guide us to it, then we will claim the amulet and return in time to form a plan. I don't want to fork over such a powerful artifact to those nutjobs, but right now they have a lot of leverage."

Zecora shook her head and led them deeper into the forest. As the three of us walked along the path, she said, "The path we travel is filled with danger, of which you definitely are no stranger. Where the weak may fall in fright, only the strong can make things right. For Canterlot to see the day, a terrible price we must pay."

Finn chuckled despite the words and continued to banter, "Now that's more like it! The rhyming is spot on, the verses are rhythmic, and you even inverted the syntax a few times. Pure poetry. I, Baron Finishing Archimedes Touch, swear this very day that I will make you slip up, Zecora! One day you will miss one of your little rhymes, and I will be there to throw it in your face." His expression brightened and he gained a little bounce in his step. "Tell me how you feel about oranges."

Zecora chuckled at his antics, and a mirthful glint appeared in her eye. "I accept the challenge of this game, but your first attempt is pretty lame."

The two continued to banter in that same manner as they trotted down the path. Finn tried to get her to work in words like purple, month, and rhythm. Derpy was just happy that he was starting to return to his usual self. He was happy and goofy, as if nothing was wrong and the fate of Equestria didn't rest in their hooves. But she knew better. The Finn that she knew was a persona that he created to blend in in Ponyville. He became a complete stranger once again, but his love for Dinky hadn't changed. Maybe this could be a chance to get to know him all over again.

"So where are we going anyway?" Finn asked, finally giving up his game of stump-the-zebra...for now.

"At the end of this tedious stroll, the castle ruin is our goal. I suggest you steel yourselves, friends. That is where our journey truly begins."

The trio continued in silence. The forest had grown dark despite the fact that it was the middle of the day. The trees creaked in a breeze that nopony felt. To Derpy, it sounded like the forest was breathing. The creatures scurrying in the underbrush scratched and thumped audibly, but they were never seen. To Finn, they were the beating of an enormous heart. The forest was alive, and fear crept its way into their hearts.

Derpy suddenly jumped into the air and clung to a branch high above the path. She was shaking and her teeth chattered uncontrollably.

"What has gotten you so scared? As if a monster its teeth had bared?"

Derpy hugged the branch for dear life, but with a crack the branch snapped and plummeted back to the ground. The branch impaled itself into the path, but the pegasus still clung to it upside down. She shook her head and refused to budge. Zecora walked up to her and plucked a loose feather from Derpy's wing. Using the feather she began savagely tickling the terrified pegasus. She started laughing, but Zecora wouldn't let up. Tears started streaming down Derpy's face and she soon came to her breaking point. She let go of the branch and held her aching chest. Unfortunately, she fell the short distance to the ground and landed on her head. She sat up, spots swimming before her eyes.

"Are you ready to tell us what that was all about, Derpy?" Finn asked.

"I heard a sound. It sounded a little like laughing, but it was cut short."

All three paused, pivoting their ears around to catch the mysterious laughter. Once again, Derpy was the first to hear it. This time she leaped onto Finn, wrapping her hooves around his neck and shivering on his back. She really wasn't as heavy as he expected. Must be a pegasus thing.

"There it was again. That way!"

Finn and Zecora followed her pointing hoof and cautiously walked in the indicated direction. Whether she wanted to or not, Derpy was along for the ride. The trio followed the path into a dark grove and heard the laughter. It sounded familiar, but with a loud scratching sound it was silenced.They edged closer into the grove to investigate this strange sound. Finn had his horn lit, ready for action. Zecora, however, seemed completely at ease. The trees loomed monstrously on the outside of the grove, as if they were reaching in to snatch up whoever walked too close. Strangely, sunlight was seeping through a small gap in the trees and landed on something that surprised the travelers more than any monster.

Zecora trotted up to the small gramophone and watched as the record continued to spin and skip. She gently placed the needle on the record and listened to a familiar voice:

"Oh, girls, don't you see? When I was a little filly and the sun was going dowwwwnnnnn..."

Finn was the first to react once the song had finished playing. "So how in the heck did this get here?"

Derpy and Zecora just shrugged. Thankfully, Derpy was once again standing on her own four hooves. She said, "I don't know, but I think from now on I am going to face my fears instead of hiding from them."

"I'm proud of you, Derpy. It still feels like this was some kind of lame plot device created by a lazy author to teach a relevant lesson. Feels a little out of place, doesn't it, Zecora?"

The zebra nodded sagely. "Now that this farce is through, shall we our quest continue?"

In response they all continued down the path, on their way to the abandoned castle.

After what felt like an eternity of uneventful walking, the trio arrived at the ruins of the castle. The sun had set long ago and the moon shed its light upon the shattered stone structure. All that remained of the once grand structure was a crumbling wall, a single leaning tower, and about half of the main keep. All the rest had succumbed to the ravages of time.

With full confidence, Zecora led them to the standing tower. Despite the slight tilt and the ivy growing up it's side, the tower seemed no worse for wear. Opening the door, she paused and said to her companions, "Down these stairs we must go, but take steps calm and slow. At the bottom a portal lies, long unseen by pony eyes. Beware the guardian of gleaming stone, who is of a race unknown. It is a creature of pride and greed, who guards the treasure that we need."

Derpy gulped audibly and Finn grinned like a mad-stallion. Was he seriously excited about meeting a dangerous monster deep underground? Probably.

They followed Zecora into the tower and discovered a set of stairs spiraling around the inside. In single file they headed down into utter darkness. None of them could see the other right in front of their snouts. With a sharp crack, the passage was lit with a sickly green light. Zecora stood in the lead with a large green stone glowing in her mouth. With visibility restored, they continued down the passage. After what felt like an hour of walking, the passage opened up to reveal an enormous cavern. It was so massive that the sickly light from Zecora's stone could not reach the end. Stalagmites and stalactites were scattered throughout the cavern like a set of broken teeth in a giant mouth.

Zecora stopped and gestured the others forward with a hoof. She held the hoof to her lips, motioning for silence. Derpy and Finn nodded their understanding, and they followed her once again. As she walked through the cavern, they listened intently. Water dripped from stalactites, drumming a steady beat across the cavern floor. A soft screeching suggested the presence of bats. Nothing suggested that this was anything more than a normal cavern hollowed out of the very bowels of the earth. Zecora led them through a maze of stalagmites until they came to a small path crossing over a giant chasm.

It was really just a small strip of rock that bridged the gap, but they filed along one at a time. Everything was going smoothly until Derpy started wobbling. She flared her wings to maintain her balance, but it wasn't working. She tilted to the side and her hind leg slipped off the path, sending a shower of rocks clattering down into the abyss. She would have followed them if it weren't for Finn holding her in his telekinetic grip. He marched to the other side of the chasm, still levitating Derpy in front of him, while Zecora glared at them from the other end. When they were all safely across, Derpy apologized in a squeaky whisper.

Finn replied, "Quite alright. Apparently this guardian thing didn't wake up, so no harm done. Just try to warn us whenever that vertigo kicks in. I still remember what it did to my wall."

Feeling relieved, Derpy ran a forehoof across her forehead and flicked off a few drops of sweat. Her hoof connected with a stalagmite and she cried out with a sharp, "Ouch!" The cry echoed throughout the cavern, followed by a rumbling that shook the whole structure.

"Our goal is almost in our sights, it rests beyond those stalactites!" Zecora yelled over the roaring of the cave. All three bolted in the direction she indicated, rushing through an arch formed by two giant stalactites. The cavern stopped shaking and everything went quiet. Not wishing to push their luck, the trio walked steadily into a vast rotunda with a simple pool resting in the center. The water was clear and undisturbed, and strangely the pool formed a perfect circle. Not a chance that it was natural.

Torches flared to life on the walls, bathing the room in the glow of their flames. Zecora quickly stuffed her stone away in her satchel. A loud voice echoed through the room, "I'm back, baby!"

The ground shook as a giant rose out of the cavern floor. It was a bipedal creature standing on two massive legs. Its body gleamed in the torchlight, reflecting the light off of countless amethysts lodged in its obsidian skin. Two yellow, bulging eyes stared out at the ponies. The massive creature reached up and ripped a stalactite straight from the ceiling. He then proceeded to puff on it like a cigar. Surprisingly, the end glowed and he blew out a cloud of noxious smoke.

"So anyway, what the hell are you ponies doing here?"

Derpy was the first to reply, "Um, I'm sorry sir, but who are you?"

The massive stone being pointed a thumb to his chest saying, "Name's Golem. I'm a golem."

Finn was intrigued by the creature standing in front of them. Golems were supposed to be the pinnacle of the enchanter's art. He could learn so much from such a masterpiece.

"So seriously, what are you meatbags doing in this cave?"

Now it was Zecora's turn to take charge. "A dangerous enemy pursues, so that portal we seek to use. I implore you do not be crass. Please just simply let us pass."

Golem stared at Zecora uncomprehendingly. He looked over at Derpy, "Can I get that in Equestrian?"

Derpy begged, "Please, we need to use that portal. Some bad ponies took my daughter and we need to use it to help her."

The massive figure wiped away a tear. "Awww, that's so sad. You can pass."

"Really?"

"No! Hehehehe!"

Finn jumped defensively in front of Derpy, horn glowing in rage. "That wasn't very funny! You should apologize to her!"

Golem stopped laughing and glared down at Finn, "Oh yeah, chump? No way! Bite my shiny crystalline ass!" And he presented said crystalline ass for good measure.

Finn was furious. He prepared his magic for an assault, but Zecora placed a hoof on his shoulder and shook her head in warning. He calmed down to assess their situation. Right now, the golem didn't seem to want to hurt them. He seemed to have more fun bullying them. Suddenly he remembered the warning that Zecora gave at the entrance. He is vain and greedy! Finn devised a plan.

"I guess those dragons were right, wouldn't you say, Zecora? They weren't joking about how shiny and beautiful this golem is."

With a knowing smile, Zecora nodded her agreement.

Golem paused, "Hmmm, I don't know any dragons. Then again, I am great. What else did these dragons say about me?"

"That was mostly it, but I thought they said something about you being an idiot who wasn't even fit to be part of their horde."

His good mood left instantly. "WHAT! Those jerks! I'll show them!" Then he rubbed his hands together greedily, "Wait a minute, dragons have tons of valuable crap just laying around. Hehehehehe. Yo, meatbag, where are these dragons anyway? I need to have a word with them."

"They're on the surface, about twenty kilometers from the entrance to this cavern."

Golem pulled an enormous burlap sack out of nowhere and threw it over his shoulders. Whistling a tune he turned to leave the rotunda. The trio sighed in relief, but Golem poked his head back in and said, "Oh yeah, don't use that portal or anything. If you move, I'll have to kill you or something. Kill all ponies." Then he left again.

Derpy grabbed Finn in a tight hug and Zecora nodded approvingly. She said, "I am very proud of you Finn. You do not always need brawn to win."

Finn basked in the praise for a bit, enjoying the mares' attention. "Oh, go on! By all means flatter me some more. But seriously, let's get through this thing before that golem comes back. Do you know how to work this thing Zecora?"

"It is very simple, Finn. All you must do is jump in."

"Good enough for me. Ladies, if you would do me the honor?" With his usual cocky smile, he threw a leg around Derpy and the other around Zecora. They both chuckled lightly and all three of them walked to the edge of the pool. With an uncharacteristic smirk, Zecora spun quickly and kicked Finn into the water. He flailed his legs wildly, but could only manage a look of mock betrayal before sinking into the pool without even making a splash. Derpy laughed with the zebra for a few seconds before they both jumped in after their friend.

Author's Note

Once again, I'm not too happy with this chapter, but at least we are finally moving into the action-y part. Meaning the part that I actually like to write.

Anyway, don't forget to like, favorite, and comment. Feedback is always appreciated, even if you just want to hate on the story.

I Have No Memory of This Place...

Derpy and Zecora felt as if their bodies were being wrapped in plastic and plunged into a vat of warm water. They couldn't breath or speak. No sight, sound, or smell could reach them as the portal sent them off to Celestia knows where. Suddenly, the substance surrounding them tore and both mares fell through. Their fall was short lived as the landed with a splash.

They breached the surface and greedily sucked in mouthfuls of air, then they looked around to take in their surroundings. The air was hot and wet. Enormous trees with hanging branches grew directly out of the water. Mosquitoes blanket the air in thick swarms. And the dark, dirty water they swam in seemed endless. The only dry land in sight held nothing but a gnarly magnolia tree and a gaudy stallion who was positively drenched.

Finn pouted moodily as his companions paddled to shore. His hat sagged from all the extra water and it kept falling down over his eyes.

"Nice of you to warn me that the portal led straight into a swamp. Where's the ball, Zecora? Oh right, you dropped it!"

Only then did the stallion notice the zebra's expression. Hey eyes were wide, her breathing was rapid, and she kept glancing around.

Derpy put a leg around her shoulder. "Are you okay?"

Finn watched as fear, true fear, replaced Zecora's usual calm and happy demeanor. She was the rock that held their team together. She couldn't crumble when they had just started their journey!

"I say this with much disgrace, but I have no memory of this place."

Derpy gasped, "You mean... we're lost?"

Zecora nodded solemnly. Finn sputtered, "But... But didn't the portal take you here last time?" She shook her head.

Everything had been going fine. They had a plan. They had gotten past the guardian. They had even made it through the portal! Now they were back to square one because the portal didn't work like it was supposed to. PERFECT! JUST PERFECT!

Nopony said anything. They just allowed the water to drip off their coats onto the small muddy spit of land and attempted to fully wrap their heads around their situation. The sun was coming up and the swamp would soon be teaming with many dangerous and annoying creatures. Derpy was already having to swing her tail around constantly to whip the mosquitoes off of her. Zecora and Finn weren't faring any better.

Suddenly, Derpy froze. She nudged Finn and asked, "Finn, why are those logs moving?"

Finn and Zecora both glanced at the large shapes drifting lazily toward them. They blended almost seamlessly with the dirty water, but Finn noticed two things about them immediately. First, their powerful tails left a zigzagging ripple in their wake. Second, their massive jaws were filled with sharp jagged teeth. Alligators.

"Get up the tree NOW!" Finn yelled.

Derpy flew up into the branches of the giant magnolia. Zecora used her staff to vault into one of the low hanging branches and jumped effortlessly onto a branch directly below Derpy. Finn reached into his vest pocket and pulled out his watch. He disconnected the watch from the chain and called out, "Frieda, center stage! Now!"

"Aye, aye, boss." The chain once again took the form of the copper serpent, but it didn't stay that way for long. Her body lengthened and shot up to one of the branches. She bit down on the branch with jaws much bigger than she previously had. Frieda wrapped her tail around Finn's hoof and quickly reeled him in. Finn shot up into the tree as the metal serpent pulled him up to the branch below the one she had latched onto. When Finn had safely landed, she shrunk down to her usual size and coiled protectively around his hoof in case she was needed again.

Six of the vicious reptiles gathered around the tree snapping their jaws. Some of them even tried to stand on their stubby hind legs and reach up into the tree. After a while, they became bored with their unattainable prey and only one stubborn creature remained. Finn was trying to think of an escape plan, but his thoughts were interrupted by an awful tuneless singing.

"Catfish in da net and a 'possum in da pot. Gator's in da swamp, but dat's alright. Ole Boo be goin' fishin' tonight!"

All three looked to see a griffin gliding steadily through the water in a small metal boat. It's bottom was flat and he pushed it along with a pole like a gondolier. His furry hindquarters were covered by black rubber waders that covered all the way up to his feathery torso. A single strap hung over his shoulder to clasp onto the button in the front. The other dangled behind his back, completely unused. His feathers were a dull russet color except for a tuft of white feathers on his chest. They couldn't make out any of his facial features because of a large tan fisherman's hat covering his head. Fish hooks and lures were stuck through at seemingly random intervals.

The griffin continued to push his boat toward their small island and let out a cackling laugh when he saw the alligator trying to run up the tree.

"Hoo-ee! What'choo lookin' at, Vern! I swears you'd be da first gator I ever see tryin' ta climb a tree." Flapping his wings, he took off and scanned the tree for anything that would keep the alligator's attention. Finally, he spotted the three ponies and the corners of his beak lowered in a frown. He flew back to the ground and kicked the large reptile with one of his booted back paws.

"I dun told'ya once, Vern! Ponies don't taste good, no. Even wit Tabasco! Now y'all get home and find ya'self a nice water rat to snack on. Go on! Git!" He punctuated the last word with another kick. The alligator turned around and a rumbling hiss escaped its mouth as it snapped at the griffin. The griffin stepped back and waved a claw at the beast.

"Don't'choo get attitudinal wid' me! I could always use me a new set'a boots!"

The reptile finally got the message and slunk off into the water. The griffin slapped on a cheerful grin and called up into the tree, "Y'all can come on down now! Gator's gone!"

Zecora leaped effortlessly from her high branch and landed as light as a falling leaf. Derpy grabbed Finn around the torso and gently flew them both down before he tried to copy Zecora's feat of athleticism. Once on the ground, they trotted over to meet their savior.

Up close, they were finally able to see his face. He had the sharp yellow eyes of a predator, but they twinkled with laughter. The smile pulled his beak back to reveal a toothy grin. Well, the few teeth that he had anyway.

The griffin burst out laughing when he saw Finn descending in Derpy's embrace. He wiped his eyes and called, "Whoo! Y'all a bit early fa' Mardi Gras, cap'n! Clothes like dat, I bet da gators could find'ya in da dark!"

He continued laughing, but Finn cleared his throat and said, "Thank you for getting rid of those alligators, sir. Also, we are completely lost and we would be eternally grateful if you could direct us to the nearest town."

The griffin finished his hearty laugh and zipped over to the trio. He wrapped his brawny talons around them and pulled them into a hug. He beat his powerful wings and kicked off with his hind legs. He launched all of them into the air and landed roughly on his flat-bottomed boat.

"I'll do ya one betta, cap'n. Y'all comin' home wid me an' meet da fam'ly. Y'all can have some lunch and tell me how y'all got stuck in dat tree. By da way, my name Boudreaux (pronounced Boo-DRO for those of you who have never heard the jokes or never a Cajun), but y'all can call me Boo."

The trio introduced themselves in turn as Boudreaux started to push his batteau across the water.

Boudreaux's boat glided down the bayou as the griffon pushed them along through the shallow water. He hummed happily to himself as the equines observed the unusual world around them. Giant cypress trees sprouted straight from the water with moss hanging like curtains from their branches. A pair of dragonflies buzzed around the trees, skimming over the water. One flew too close though, and a giant fish unlike anything they had ever seen jumped out of the water and swallowed the unfortunate insect whole.

They continued to make steady progress until Boudreaux squinted through the dim sunlight. He laughed excitedly and said, "Lookie der, y'all! Home sweet home!"

They all peered off the side of the boat to see a rickety shack nestled in the branches of stately willow. The shack itself was made of roughly hewed wooden slats nailed together haphazardly. The roof was nothing but a few sheets of rusted tin riveted together. The only hint of that it was inhabited was the smoke rising from the stove pipe jutting out of a hole in the roof. Wooden rails lined the outside of the shack creating a weathered porch.

Boudreaux pushed the boat up to the tree and tied it off on a low hanging branch. Without warning, he grabbed Zecora and Finn and flew straight up into the branches. He landed softly on the wooden porch and deposited the two on the wooden floorboards. Derpy followed them with her own wings. Boudreaux wrenched open the screen door and yelled inside, "Hey, Thibodeaux (Tib-uh-do [long o]), get on out here an' show our guests some hospitality."

The floorboards creaked as a massive earth pony trudged out the door. His brown coat was covered by a red flannel shirt, but a few missing buttons revealed his impressive muscle tone. This guy might even give Big Macintosh a challenge. His mane was untidy and looked suspiciously like the moss hanging from the trees in the swamp. He greeted them with a sleepy smile, revealing several missing teeth. Finn and the others introduced themselves, but Finn couldn't help but notice that his left eye tended to wander randomly. It was strangely unnerving.

After the introductions, Boudreaux placed a taloned arm over the stallion's shoulder. Then he laughed and spoke to their guests, "Tibs here's my cousin. Knowed him since we's little. Him and our cousin Pierre." Thibodeaux just nodded. Boudreaux glanced around as if looking for something important. He then focused on Thibodeaux and asked, "Hey, Thibodeaux, where Pierre anyhow?"

Thibodeaux shrugged. He didn't seem like the type who talked much. Finn was even starting to wonder if he was maybe a bit mentally stunted.

Boudreaux scratched the top of his head, wondering about his missing cousin, when suddenly his head shot up and his eyes widened. Thibodeaux mirrored his movement, his ears perked up. Their eyes turned in unison to a spot on the other side of the porch. A fishing rod sat in a wooden holster, but it was emitting a low scratching as the line was being drawn out. Boudreaux flashed to the spot and ripped the rod out of the holster. With a manic gleam in his eyes, he wrenched on the rod as it bent under the pressure pulling it from the other side.

He grit his teeth in determination and braced his back paws against the wooden railing. He laughed crazily as Thibodeaux shuddered. For the first time, Thibodeaux spoke in a slow deep voice, "Boo been after Big Mama for years, but he neva' been able to catch 'er. It's always a scary sight when he think he got her. Even worse when she gets away."

Everypony watched in fascination as Boudreaux fought against his unseen adversary. Finally, after a long fight, he tensed his muscles and shrieked a predatory roar as he yanked an enormous whiskered fish out of the water. It was easily big enough to swallow a young filly like Dinky whole. A chill grip Finn's heart. The existence of such a monster under their very feet was terrifying.

Boudreaux danced gleefully as he held his prize in both talons. "After all dees years," he whispered, tears running down his face, "I finally got'ya. Big Mama is mine." He closed his eyes and snuggled with the slimy catfish, pure joy radiated from him.

Then the strangest thing happened. The catfish was consumed by a flash of green flames. When the flames vanished, Boudreaux was left nuzzling a changeling wearing a tattered pair of overalls. The changeling said, "Aww, I love you too, cuz. Why don'tcha introduce me to yer friends?"

Boudreaux cycled through several emotions faster than his brain could handle. First joy, then confusion, then disappointment, then rage. Deciding to stick with rage, Boudreaux grabbed the changeling roughly by the neck and slung him over the railing. The equines rushed to the railing just in time to see the changeling splash into the muddy water below. Boudreaux huffed and stormed into the shack, slamming the screen door behind him.

The changeling emerged from the water and scampered up onto one of the tree's roots. He shook the water from his insectoid wings, then he flew back onto the porch. He trotted over to the gathering of equines and smiled warmly, revealing yet another incomplete set of teeth. These swamp dwellers seriously need a dentist, thought Finn.

"Bonjour mes amis!" Cried the changeling, "Y'all can call me Pierre. Looks like y'all already met my cousin Thibodeaux. Met Boudreaux too by da look'a it. Can y'all believe dat featherhead t'rowin' me into da swamp?"

Thibodeaux chuckled and replied, "You kinda had it comin', cousin. Catchin' Big Mama is his life's dream, you know."

Pierre kicked absently at the floor with a holey hoof. He knew that his prank had gone too far, but he had a plan to make it up to his relative. Fortunately, the happy-go-lucky griffin wouldn't brood over it too long. Holding grudges wasn't his way.

Zecora, Derpy, and Finn had been quiet ever since they arrived at the shack, but finally their confusion had reached its peak and something snapped in Derpy.

"Okay, I have a question." She pointed at Pierre. "You're a changeling, you," she pointed at Thibodeaux, "are a pony, and Boo is a griffin."

Pierre nodded. "Das a very good observation, cher."

"Why do you say that you are cousins? That's not even possible."

She shifted her glance to Thibodeaux, but he blushed and trained his own eyes at the floor. Does he have a crush on Derpy? Finn wondered, smiling internally at the thought. Poor guy doesn't know what he'd be getting into.

Pierre laughed and shook his head vigorously. "No, no, no, cher. Dat don't matta' none. In da bayou, your fam'ly the ones you love most. Dees two helped ole Pierre after Queen Plasma abandoned him in da swamp. Dey are more fam'ly den any brother or sister I could ever have."

Zecora, Finn, and Derpy looked perplexed. They had never imagined such a relationship would last for long, nor would it have such depth. Could complete stranger, even creatures of different species, develop that kind of intimate bond?

Pierre's smile dropped and he leaned against his 'cousin.' He said, "Life in da bayou is hard, but it makes ya remember what's really important. Love and happiness are like a big ole cypress. Don't matter if the water's high or if the sun's too hot. It'll grow right out the water and tower over everything. What we got ain't much, but it's all we need. Long as we got each other, we don't need nothin' else."

They all stood in silence to process Pierre's deep words. Finally, Finn smiled and addressed the group, "I believe Boo promised us lunch. Would you gentlecolts like to escort the ladies and myself inside?"

Thibodeaux smiled and muttered, "S-sounds good. Come on in y'all."

Pierre added, "Y'all ain't lived 'til ya try our swamp gumbo!"

The group piled into the wooden shack. Once inside, Finn glanced around to examine the room. The shack was small, with only a bedroom attached to the combination kitchen and living area. Indoor plumbing was out of the question. It had only spartan furnishing. The center of the main room was dominated by a small wooden table with four wooden stools. To one side was a wood burning stove with a large pot steaming on top. The only other things in the room were three ratty recliners set up next to a dusty bookshelf and a large pile of fishing tackle.

Boudreaux was sulking in one of the recliners. Pierre crept cautiously towards the furious griffin. He prodded Boudreaux gently with his hoof and said, "Come on now, Boo. Y'all can't stay mad at ole Pierre for long. 'Specially 'round these delightful young visitors we got."

He continued to prod Boudreaux with a smile on his face. Boudreaux made a valiant effort to ignore the changeling, but ultimately he cracked a smile and grabbed Pierre in a headlock. Chuckling lightly, he said, "You know what'cha gotta do to make it up'ta me."

Pierre paled. "Don't make me do it in front'a our guests."

"It serves ya right!"

Pierre frowned. With a flash of green flames, he transformed into a small green frog. The frog reached behind his back and pulled out a black top hat and a small cane. He stood on his hind legs and started singing and dancing. He would kick out one of his hind legs in the air, then follow with the other. Using his front leg, he would flourish the hat and cane as he sang,

With another flash of green, the mortified changeling appeared before the group. To his amazement, the ponies clapped their hooves on the floor to show their appreciation. Blushing, Pierre gave them a small bow before clearing his throat and walking to the table. Reaching under, he pulled out six bowls and placed them on the table. He said, "Time for lunch. Come an' get it."

After a lunch of hearty (and completely vegetarian) gumbo, the trio told their hosts about their mission. Finn was proud because Derpy had managed to make it through the entire story without shedding a single tear. On the other hand, Boo and Pierre cried freely as sobs wracked their bodies. Thibodeaux remained stoic, but the massive pony still seemed to sympathize with their dilemma. It was Thibodeaux who spoke first.

"I think we gotta take'um to see Auntie Gris-Gris [Gree-Gree]. She's da only one aroun' who would know what'ta do."

His friends looked at him in blank shock, as if he had just suggested that they set fire to their own tails. Then they started protesting loudly and incoherently. The trio argued heatedly until a shrill whistle got their attention.

Zecora confronted the trio and calmly asked, "Such a fuss from you three. Who is this Auntie Gris-Gris?"

Boudreaux looked like he was about to start sweating. His eyes shrank to pinpricks and a twinge of fear shook his voice. "She's da voodoo queen of da bayou. She talk to da dead and does all kinda powerful magic. She's mean as a snake and sneaky as a coon. Ain't nobody goes to her unless dey got no choice."

Pierre nodded emphatically and added, "Das right, cher! And I hear tale she lure ponies into da bayou and drowns 'um. Den she eats da soul."

Zecora shook her head in disbelief, but Finn was intrigued. Magic that could be used to commune with the dead could be very useful, but he quickly shook the dark thoughts out of his head.

Thibodeaux countered, "She still da only one who knows enough about magic to help. Maybe she can help dem figure out where to go. She might even be able to find where dey hidin' Dinky."

Derpy flashed across the room, hovering in the air. She pleaded, "Please help us find her. I need to know if my baby is alright. Not knowing is killing me! I need to see her!"

Boo and Pierre shared a glance, and their expression softened.

"Don't worry, cher. We gonna help. If we leave now, den we'll make it der by nightfall."

Derpy rushed forward and hugged Pierre tightly. She didn't even seem to care that he was a changeling.

Finn was sure of only one thing. They had a lead now. If it paid off, then they could very well be back on track.

Hold on, Dinky. We ARE going to find you.

Author's Note

This chapter is entirely self serving. It isn't some of my better work, but I stand by it nonetheless.

Voodoo Queen and Things Unseen

The time had finally come for the group to depart on the next leg of their journey. All but Pierre and Boo piled into the boat as Thibodeaux pushed it along. His airborne cousins flew ahead to lead the way and remove any pesky branches that would catch on clothes and hair. The mismatched family guided them expertly through the treacherous bayou toward their destination.

The sun slowly set on the horizon, lighting the swamp with a warm glow. Thibodeaux pull out a lantern from the bottom of the boat and affixed it to the bow with a long rod. Soon it would be dark and they would arrive at the lair of the voodoo queen, Auntie Gris-Gris.

"Der she be, cher," Boo whispered faintly as he alighted on the stern.

An old wooden ship towered out of the water, but in the dim twilight they could see that it was sandwiched neatly between two mighty trees. It was a triple masted vessel that had been old decades ago. Now it just looked decrepit. Swathes of moss hung from it in curtains and vines trailed down like the ropes that used to hang from the tattered rigging. As they approached, they noticed that a large hole had been punched in the hull, breaking straight through the keel, which gaped like a massive yawning mouth. The only light came from a porthole which must have been the galley. It twinkled lazily above the mouth, completely the grotesque face of the battered hulk that was about to swallow their much smaller vessel.

Thibodeaux must have been incredibly brave, because he continued to steer them straight into the awaiting mouth. Had it not been for the lantern, they would have been plunged into darkness. As it were, they found themselves in a cavernous room which must have been the cargo hold. Thibodeaux pulled the boat up to a rickety set of stairs and Pierre secured the boat. The big earth pony and his cousins stepped carefully onto the stairs, which groaned in protest.

Finn was much more skeptical. "Are you gentleman sure about those stairs? They look rather unstable to me."

To answer his question, Boo and Pierre made their way up the creaking stairs and alighted on the deck. Zecora followed close behind, looking around in awe and curiosity with a touch of a smile pulling at the corner of her lips. She felt right at home. Thibodeaux waited to help Derpy onto the stairs, but his face was pale. He didn't even blush this time. She accepted his hoof and walked alongside him up the stairs. Not wanting to be outdone, Finn quickly scrambled up behind them.

But then he felt a chill run down his spine. He stopped and glanced around quickly, but saw nothing. The others had already made it to the top and disappeared onto the deck, leaving him alone on the stairs; however, a sharp smack on his backside sent him barreling up the decrepit staircase. His eyes were widened in alarm at the unexpected touch from an unseen force. Something was definitely not right about this ship.

Finn panted as he caught up to the others on deck. Somehow, the two trees had grown into the ship itself, supporting the rotting timbers underhoof. Despite its age and obvious disrepair, it was still strong and sturdy. All eyes turned as a door on the deck creaked open ominously. An inviting glow seeped through the door. The local trio hesitantly led their new friends toward what was most likely the galley.

They entered the room to find it empty except for a wood burning stove with a roaring fire. Sensing no danger, everyone piled into the small bare room. Too bad their senses were off...

The door slammed shut behind them and the fire went out with a WHOOSH of air, plunging the room into total darkness.

A raspy voice croaked in the darkness, "Now what're y'all chilren doin' in my house? Comin' tah pay yer ole auntie a visit, are ya?"

Everyone froze, but Finn was the first to react. With a flick of his horn, he lit the tip in a small glowing orb revealing a wizened bat pony hanging from the ceiling mere inches from his face. Her golden eyes stared curiously into his own and her fangs showed through her wide grin. She cackled, "Hey there handsome."

Finn scrambled away from the bat and managed to bowl into Pierre and Derpy, knocking them into a jumbled pile on the floor. Zecora jumped gracefully out of Finn's path and pulled a glowing vial from her satchel. Gripping it in her teeth, she hurled it into the dark stove and it immediately erupted into bright green fire, lighting the entire room. The old bat crumpled to the floor, pulling a wing over her eyes to protect them from the harsh light. Zecora whipped out her strange staff to follow up her attack, but Boudreaux and Thibodeaux stood in her way. They were protecting the old mare.

She croaked, "Do y'all always try'ta blind folks when they's just tryin'ta say 'hello?'"

Boo replied, "Naw dat ain't fair, Auntie. What'chu expect 'um ta do after ya done near scared 'um ta death?"

"Bah, that's nothin'."

"That ain't the point, Auntie! These folks got a real important job ta do, an' we gonna need your help."

She raised an eyebrow, "An' what if I don't wanna be bothered?"

Zecora slid the stick onto her back and bowed deeply to the voodoo priestess. "I pray you are not too upset. My actions just now I certainly regret. For your help I desperately plead. Won't you help us in our hour of need? To retrieve that which is now lost, we will pay any cost."

The old bat cackled mirthfully, "Don't'chall worry none, child. I was just pullin' yer leg! If you've already won over these boys of mine, I'm sure y'all are worth my time."

The remaining three finally managed to untangle themselves and join the others. Finn finally managed to get a good look at the voodoo priestess. Auntie Gris-Gris, for it was undoubtedly she, was an old bat pony. Her navy blue coat had lost some of its luster in her old age and her mane was now grey and wiry. Her leathery bat like wings were only slightly larger than pegasi wings, and two small fangs poked out over her bottom lip. The only thing that seemed to escape the ravages of time were her eyes. They were sharp and curious like a clever child, but that sharpness bespoke a quiet strength that could prove lethal. Around her neck she wore a necklace of jagged teeth and some kind of plant bulb that Finn couldn't recognize.

He decided to enter the conversation. "So you'll help us?"

A playful glint sparked in her mischievous eyes as she sidled up next to him and nuzzled his neck. She purred, "Anything fer you, big boy."

Finn visibly shuddered at the older mare's flirtation. With an angry harrumph, she stepped way, wrenched open the door, and walked out onto the dark deck. He groaned. I really want to get out of this swamp.

Derpy bonked him on the head and hissed, "Smooth move, Finn." Fortunately, he had more tact than to bring up all of her needless screwups.

The group followed her out onto the deck, which actually wasn't so dark anymore. The waxing moon washed the deck in its pale glow, reminding him of what little time they actually had. With no idea where the portal had sent them, he had no idea how much more time they had left. By his best guess, the moon would be full in about a week, and then they would be out of time. This was no time for him to ruin their mission just because he hurt an old mare's feelings.

He trotted to catch up with the withered bat pony and pleaded, "I'm so sorry, Auntie Gris-Gris. Don't punish my friends because of my idiocy."

She didn't even break stride, but her sharp eyes flashed as she glared at him. This time there was a razor's edge in her stare. Finn knew that whatever he said was going to be weighed heavily and judged harshly. "Give me one good reason why I should assist you."

Finn was taken aback. Her voice had become smooth and youthful and her accent was completely gone. There was something very strange about this mare. Swallowing his surprise, Finn explained, "We have some terrible enemies who want nothing more than to plunge this world into war and chaos. If they get what they are after, then the world will burn."

The old bat pony continued undeterred. "I've heard as much from the spirits, but the world has faced dangers like this before and has never needed my help. Why should this time be any different? What is really driving you?"

She had seen through him. He would have to tell her the whole truth. He lowered his voice and dropped his gaze, "They have my friend. Derpy's daughter. You don't know what they are capable of. We have to find her before they do something terrible to her."

Auntie's eyes softened slightly, but her voice didn't lose its eerie cadence. "Now that is a worthy cause, and it is one that I will gladly assist."

Over the course of their tense conversation, the group had made it across the deck of the ship and entered into a massive stateroom in the stern. Auntie Gris-Gris struck a match and flitted around the room, lighting the lanterns scattered around. A large table dominated the room, covered with bones, plants, colored fabrics, giant wax candles, masks, and other paraphernalia that must have been associated with her particular brand of magic.

Zecora trotted over to examine the contents of the table while the others waited patiently in the doorway. They didn't want to interrupt their scary host. Finally, Gris-Gris finished illuminating the room and settled herself into a large wicker couch covered in plush cushions. She waved to them and six chairs pulled themselves away from the table. The visitors hesitantly settled into the proffered seats. The door creaked shut behind them.

She settled back into her normal accent, "So y'all need me ta help'ya find this Alicorn Amulet do-dad, huh?"

Derpy nodded. "Yes, ma'am."

Auntie nodded as well. She closed her eyes and threw back her head, mouth open wide in a silent scream. The lights dimmed as dense shadows danced across the walls. The contents of the table started to rattled and shook. Lastly, a large crystal ball floated off the table and levitated in place. All eyes turned to the clear crystal.

Dark smoke clouded the crystal and swirled around inside with the force of a tornado. Lightning flashed within, mesmerizing everyone who was watching. Suddenly, a fine web of cracks rapidly raced across the glass, and shattered with a crash raining tiny dust-like shards all around them. Auntie Gris-Gris lurched forward and smacked her head on the table. A rivulet of blood trickled down the side of the table.

Thibodeaux shot from his chair and quickly swept up the old bat in his powerful legs. Her muzzle was bleeding and she looked dazed. Something had obviously gone wrong with her magic. Ripping one of the sleeves from his shirt, Thibodeaux gently dabbed away the blood and cradled her shriveled body until Auntie slowly regained consciousness.

She groaned and sat up, still clutched against the gentle giant's body. She grabbed her head and mumbled, "Somethin blocked me. Y'all must got some strong enemies what don't want ya ta find this thing."

Finn was puzzled by her assessment. Their enemies wanted the amulet. Why would they want to slow them down? To make the challenge more interesting? Or maybe they had more enemies than they thought.

Derpy slumped against the table, tears streaming down her face. Auntie Gris-Gris was their only lead to finding Dinky, and now they were back to square one.

Auntie bit down on one of the buds growing around her necklace, and something truly miraculous happened. Her shriveled skin filled out. Her coat became glossy and soft. Her mane straightened and turned black as night. The only thing that remained the same were her eyes. Still sharp and youthful as ever.

Finn watched as she somehow regained her lost youth, or maybe she always looked like this. Whatever the case, she was absolutely gorgeous! Finn slapped himself internally. I REALLY want to get out of this swamp! Zecora, on the other hoof, looked quietly impressed, while the swamp trio didn't betray any surprise at all. It was as if they had seen this transformation many times before.

Her voice once again dropped its ridiculous accent as she calmly whispered, "Don't cry, my dear. All is not lost yet." Derpy looked up from the table, trying to identify the source of the new voice. She watched awestruck as the beautiful bat pony jumped from the stallions embrace and alighted gracefully upon the table. She reached back and grabbed the bloodstained cloth with one of her wings. Walking across the table, she pushed a large basin of clear water to rest directly in front of Derpy. Finn and Zecora gathered around her to see what the voodoo priestess would do next.

"I may not be able to see it, but there is another who can." She wrung the cloth with her wings and a single drop of blood dripped into the basin. She dipped a hoof into the water and gently swirled it around. When she lifted it out, the water had become like a window to another world.

There was water as far as the eye could see. Possibly an ocean? They watched as the window angled down to show a mighty whirlpool churning in the vast water. But there was only one thing that stood out amidst the endless sea. Some kind of building was nestled in the bottom of the whirlpool. The window zoomed in and they saw an island with a single massive building made entirely of marble and gold. Auntie continued, "There lives the Watcher. He is an ancient being who sees everything. He will be able to tell you where to find your Amulet."

For once it was Zecora who asked the hard question, "We cannot travel by water or air. How could we all get there?"

"I will provide you a boat, and guidance to the island. What you do after that is entirely up to you."

Finn replied, "We will graciously accept any help that you are willing to give us, my lady."

She smirked as if to say, you sure changed your tune quickly. But instead she turned to Zecora and motioned to the staff on her back. "All help comes at a price. I will offer my services, but you must trade me something of equal value."

She hesitated, looking pleadingly at Derpy and Finn. Finn had no idea what it was that made her so attached to her staff, but that look said it all. She would give anything else, but she wouldn't part with that staff. He couldn't let her give up something that obviously meant so much to her.

Finn interrupted, "Perhaps there is something I can give you instead. I happen to be a master of the arcane arts as well. If it's an enchantment you want, I'm the best around!" He even tilted his hat and flashed a cocky grin, hoping to sell the idea.

Auntie laughed, "Not a chance, big boy. Your magic isn't anything like ours, and I'm offering you something pretty substantial."

"How about money? I am fabulously wealthy."

"What need have I of money? I have my home and my work. There is nothing I need that I cannot obtain on my own."

Finn was flummoxed by her dismissal of him, so he had to put the ball in her court. "Name your price then. Zecora should not have to give up her prized possession for my sake. This whole quest is my fault anyway."

She pondered this for a bit, then she rounded on him with her mischievous grin. "There is one thing..."

Gulp. He didn't like the look she was giving him. "Y-yes?"

She nuzzled up to him again. "Marry me."

Six jaws dropped to the floor as the room was plunged into a deathly silence. Finn recoiled from her and backed up frantically until he hit the wall behind him. "M-marriage?! With you?! I don't even know you!"

"Y'all can't be serious, Auntie!" sputtered Boo.

She ignored him. "Oh, don't worry dear. I'll be a great wife 'til death do us part. And even then, I can always bring you back as a zombie. Besides," she wiggled her curvaceous body in front of him, "don't tell me you don't want this all to yourself."

Every synapse in his brain was screaming It's a trap!!! He immediately wracked his brain to find some suitable alternative, but he knew she wouldn't be dissuaded.

"Nopony should be forced into marriage this way. Don't worry, my friend, your price I will pay." Zecora walked over and slammed her staff down on the table. Finn could have kissed the wonderful zebra, but he still felt bad about letting her take the heat.

"Are you sure, Zecora?"

She nodded, but didn't elaborate any further. Auntie Gris-Gris looked slightly disappointed, but immediately examined her prize carefully. Then she set it back on the table and whistled sharply. The group listened as they heard a dull repetitive THUNK coming from outside. It got closer and closer, until suddenly the door flew open and... a staff hopped inside all on it's own. It was slightly longer than Zecora's and the wood was much darker.

Even Zecora was surprised when the staff hopped next to her and started rubbing against her like a cat before jumping onto her back, taking the place of her previous weapon.

Gris-Gris explained, "This is a coco macaque, also known as a Spirit Stick or a Zombie Staff. As you can see, it can walk on its own and on top of that it will obey any order you give it... within reason. It shall lead you on the next leg of your journey."

Finn and Zecora both felt the strange and otherworldly power that radiated from the strange tool. Somehow they felt that there was more to it than what they were told.

"And what about the ship?" Finn asked.

"Hmph, not even a 'thank you.' Your manners need a bit of work," She smirked playfully, "We'll have to work on that during our honeymoon." Realizing that Finn was not amused by her joke, she continued, "The ship is moored on the other side of the trees. My ...friends... have been stocking it with supplies since we struck our bargain. It will be ready to sail within the hour. Unless there is anything else that you need of me, you may leave whenever you like."

Finn and Zecora thanked their host, though neither was very sincere about it. Zecora was wary of her new staff, and Finn was not entirely sure that she had given up on wooing him. But Derpy hesitated. She had been staring at the basin for the duration of the conversation. Her eyes glowed with intensity as she begged, "Please, can you show me my daughter? I want to see her. To make sure she is okay."

"Of course, dear. Please, let me see your hoof."

Derpy stretched her hoof over the basin. With lightning speed, Auntie Gris-Gris lurched forward and sunk her fangs into the offered leg. A few drops of blood dripped into the water before Derpy ripped her leg back in surprise. Auntie licked her lips, savoring the metallic taste on her tongue.

"Sacrifice is always needed to see the things unseen." Once again, she swirled her hoof in the basin and a new image formed on the surface.

Dropping In

“Mom! Oh no! Watch Out! Not again!”

CRASH!!!!

A whirling flurry of splintered wood and plaster flew through the dimly lit room as a gray pegasus crashed through a formerly perfectly good wall. In surprise, the emerald coated stallion sitting behind a long counter threw aside his issue of The Canterlot Times and rushed to the mare’s aid, nearly knocking off the bottle green top hat awkwardly perched atop his head. The only thing keeping it in place was the unruly mop of curly indigo mane. Skidding to a halt next to the unexpected visitor he gently nudged her still body with a tentative hoof.

“Are you quite alright, miss? Is anything broken? Please say something!”

The mare shook her blonde head and cringed. She moaned, “Ow, my head. That was not a soft wall.” She gasped and jumped right back into the air. “Dinky! Where are you?! Are you alright?!” She twirled in midair, frantically scanning the large dim room. A muffled voice came from the far wall and both ponies hurried over to investigate.

A large pile of stuffed animals was clustered along the far wall like debris from a hurricane, and from the cotton stuffed carnage popped the small head of a young purple filly. A stuffed chameleon hung comically from her small horn. She shook her head quite like the mare beside her had done, dislodging the poor fabric reptile, and dizzily groaned, “Mom, I think it’s time we invest in helmets.” With another groan she collapsed back into her the stuffed animal mountain, causing a small puff of loose fluff to leap into the air.

The gray mare and confused stallion exchanged glances and quickly dug the unconscious filly out. The stallion plucked the hat off of his head, revealing a spiraling horn emerging from his curly indigo sea of hair. He wrapped the purple filly in a magical aquamarine aura and levitated her onto his back. He looked over his shoulder to the gray mare and asked, “Care for some tea, miss?”

Still slightly stunned, the mare nodded with a sheepish smile. “That would be wonderful, sir.”

The emerald stallion gently cantered into the back room with the young filly on his back. Then he enveloped her in his magic once again and gently laid her on an empty couch. Her mother knelt beside her and gently stroked her forehead, cooing softly. The stallion briskly walked off through another doorway, presumably into the kitchen to fetch the promised refreshments. When he returned, levitating the tea and a plate of muffins in front of him, he paused at the sight of the poor mare. Tears were pouring out in a deluge that would have made Canterlot Falls envious. She then followed with a barrage of apologies, but the stallion lifted a hoof to silence her and calmly placed the items he was carrying onto a low table. He then regarded her a charming half smile.

“Now, now, there is no need for that. Honestly I was thinking the room needed a window anyway. Can’t have a display window without a window right? Now, why don’t you tell me your name and that of this charming young filly?”

The crying mare managed to choke back her tears and answered, “My name is Derpy Hooves, and this,” she gestured to the couch, “is my daughter Dinky. I was flying her back home from school, but I got a bad case of vertigo and crashed through your wall. I’m sorry.” Her ears drooped and her eyes drifted to the floor (well one of them did, the other drifted toward the wall). The stallion, upon noticing her strange eyes, smiled compassionately at his new acquaintance and offered her a freshly baked banana nut muffin. Derpy’s expression instantly snapped from depression to ecstasy. Apparently she really, REALLY likes muffins.

“I mean it; don’t worry about the wall Mrs. Hooves. A wall is simple enough to repair.”

A loud shattering crash came from the front room. Wincing he continued, “The chandelier, however, may take some work.” Derpy proceeded to cry with renewed intensity and hid her face in her hooves; though still maintain her hold on her muffin. The stallion moved to stand next to her and placed a reassuring hoof around her withers.

“It’s alright Mrs. Hooves, now how about we check on little Miss Dinky?”

As if on cue the little filly groaned sleepily, sat up, and inquired, “Mom, where are we?”

Derpy let out a worried breath and rushed over to her daughter and proceeded to gently stroke the blond mane that was so similar to her own. “Dinky, we are still in the house that I crashed into. Mister…” she looked quizzically at the stallion, “actually, I never did find out your name.”

The born showpony took the opportunity to glide over to the pair and cheerfully proclaimed, “Well my dear, it is certainly a pleasure to meet such a pretty young filly and her charming mother, no matter what the circumstances may be.” With a small spark of magic he flourished his top hat and indulged in a deep bow. “And how rude of me for not introducing myself! My name is Finishing Touch and I am the proprietor of this humble shop. And this is my assistant, Klaus.” With another magical flourish he flipped his hat upside down and a small wooden monkey fell out and grabbed on to the brim. It quickly climbed up onto the band and then onto the top of the hat. “Say hello, Klaus.” The small primate waved enthusiastically at the two ladies and indulged in a bow of his own.

Derpy was gaping in wonder, and Dinky was laughing uncontrollably. When Dinky’s giggles subsided and she assured everypony that she was alright, the flashy stallion straightened up and gestured for them to join him in the front room. When they walked back into the ravaged room two young colts were loitering around the monstrous hole in the wall.

Looking in, a heavyset brown colt with a silver and gold mane jeered through the hole, “Sweet Celestia, Dinky, your mom sure did a number on this house!” His companion, a lithe tan pegasus with a spiky sea green mane, proclaimed loudly, “Yeah, what kind of pegasus gets airsick anyway? Well at least this time she didn't plow all the way through.” They both rolled around laughing, hind legs kicking in the air.

Dinky blushed angrily as she confronted her tormentors, “Leave my mom alone! It’s not her fault!” Tears threatened to fall from her sparkling eyes as her mother gently draped a wing over her. Derpy shook her head softly and allowed the boys to gallop away, laughing at their childish harassment. The shopkeeper looked upon them with knowing eyes. This wasn't the first time that Dinky had to defend her mother, and it would certainly not be the last. The young filly dearly loved her mother, and Derpy clearly loved her daughter as well.

Finishing Touch trotted over to the wall and once again removed his hat with magic, while Klaus lay across the flat top, holding on with all five appendages for dear life. Observing the demolition like an art critic observing a masterpiece, his horn glowed brightly and the debris floated back into the hole, filling it in and looking to all Equestria as if it had never been damaged. The emerald colored unicorn lightly plopped the top hat back onto his head, and Klaus used his tail to wipe imaginary beads of sweat from his forehead with an exaggerated sighing motion. Glancing upwards the stallion chuckled something that sounded suspiciously like “Drama queen.”

Turning back to his guests, a broad smile on his face, he declared, “I told you it was an easy fix Mrs. Hooves. Now how about a little more light?” He whistled loudly and magical light flooded the entire room with its comforting glow. For the first time, Derpy and Dinky were able to see the room they had unceremoniously crashed into.

They stood in a large rectangular room. On the far wall stretched a long wooden counter with a small work bench tucked behind it. Shelves lined two other walls, and the final wall was bare except for the door and a few windows. Bins littered the floor in a small labyrinth, but right now they stood empty. The small mound of stuffed animals still lay slaughtered in the corner, but the true marvel of the room was the ceiling. A small train track was suspended in the air about five hooves above the ponies gathered on the floor.

With a wink and a burst of magic, the shopkeeper produced a small toy train and sent it happily chugging around the small track, which managed to disassemble and reassemble itself so that the train paraded around the room in new and exciting loops, spirals, and corkscrews. The whole marvelous scene was made even more magical because the ceiling itself glowed with an aurora of many ever-changing colors, as if it couldn't decide which one suited it best. The two visitors gawked in astonishment as Finishing Touch beamed with pride. Eventually, Dinky turned to him and asked, “Mr. Touch, just what kind of store is this?”

He settled down on his haunches and looked directly at the little filly. “Haven’t you figured it out, my dear? I can tell you are very bright for your age.”

She stared into his eyes and noticed something strange. Maybe it was the reflection of the ceiling, but his eyes seemed to be changing colors as well, as if they were fighting to determine how much to reveal to her own probing gaze. She blinked away the thought and tentatively said, “Well, you have bins and shelves to hold things, lots of stuffed animals, and this amazing train. Are you a toymaker?”

The quirky stallion leaped to his hooves, with Klaus barely clinging to the brim of his hat, and declared brilliantly, “That I am, my dear! And you are my first customer in Ponyville!” He trotted off to the counter and proceeded to dig around underneath it.

Derpy proceeded to protest bashfully, “I’m sorry Mr. Touch, but we don’t have much money right now. I’m just a mailmare and –her eyes drifted toward the floor- my husband passed on years ago. We just can’t afford to buy anything right now.” She blushed and mumbled, “Especially since I broke your chandelier.” She nudged the twisted cluster of iron and broken crystal with a hind leg.

Finishing popped his head back up and smiled sweetly. “Oh, think nothing of that old thing. I said I could fix it given enough time. It’s no trouble really, just a bit more delicate than a wall. Anyway, I don’t want money from you. Young Dinky has something much more valuable.”

Derpy cautiously sidled alongside her daughter and glared fiercely at the stallion standing before her. With her wings flared protectively and her ears pinned defiantly she growled, “What is it that you want with my daughter exactly, sir?”

Finishing Touch gasped and placed a hoof over his chest in apology. “I'm sorry if I gave you the wrong impression Mrs. Hooves! I merely wanted little Dinky to come and visit for our grand opening. That way she can see my quaint little shop in all of its glory.”

Derpy relaxed and folded her wings back. She turned her head towards her daughter and asked, “Well what do you say, Dinky?” The little filly beamed and hopped around excitedly. Three small golden sparks flickered at the tip of her horn due to her barely contained excitement.

Finishing Touch trotted around the counter and resumed his previous position on the floor next to Dinky. His expression became inexplicably serious and his gaze contained an indescribable intensity. Dinky was so surprised at his sudden transition that she had to choke back a hard lump of fear rising in her throat. The unusual stallion looked her in the eye and said in a soft yet serious voice, “Now Dinky, I know you and your mother have had a hard time because of her situation.” Dinky paled slightly but he continued, “I see the love between you two and I know that you are a wonderful daughter. Can I trust you with my greatest treasure?”

Dinky looked questioningly at her mother who smiled encouragingly. Taking a deep breath Dinky replied, “Mr. Touch, I just met you. And I’m just a filly. I wouldn't feel right with any kind of treasure. I don’t think I have earned that trust yet.” Her mother nodded approvingly and nuzzled her sweet little filly. Dinky turned and looked back into the stallion’s eyes.

His gaze softened and he whispered to his new friend, “That is a very good answer. Trust must be earned, but faith is given freely. I believe in you Dinky, so I want you to have my treasure.”

He lifted the hat off his head once again to reveal a cloth doll sitting atop his head. The toymaker continued in his soft, almost reverent, voice, “This is the first doll I ever made. Her name is Patchwork.”

The name suited the doll; she was shaped like an earth pony filly made from irregularly cut pieces of different colored fabric. The stitching was fine, and the seams were barely noticeable. Her corn silk mane and tail gleamed slightly in the bright magical light. Klaus was sitting on the doll’s back, pretending he was in a rodeo and she was trying to buck him off. Finishing picked up the protesting monkey and stuffed him unceremoniously back into his green hat, then he used his magic to gently place his prized possession into Dinky’s outstretched hoof. She hugged the doll lovingly.

“I know you will love her just as much as I do. Remember Dinky, she is your friend. Whenever you are sad or angry, she will be there just as your mother is. But she is missing something.”

Dinky looked questioningly at the toymaker and inquired, “What do you mean? She looks perfect to me.”

The mysterious twinkle returned to his color-changing eyes and he whispered, “She is perfect, but that doesn't mean she is complete. Every creation of mine needs to fit its owner. She just needs a little… finishing touch.”

With another trademark wink he encompassed the doll in a corona of swirling aquamarine magic. When the light died down and their eyes adjusted, Dinky looked curiously at Patchwork. The multicolored doll now sported an orange and a purple wing. And her painted eyes stared off in different directions. The toymaker let out a quick “oomph” as the tiny filly tackled him in a crushing hug singing, “Thank you! Thank you! THANK YOU!!!” Finishing Touch chuckled and hugged his new friend back.

They both got back to their hooves and he opened the front door with his magic. Derpy gathered her daughter onto her back and prepared to take flight once again. As she leaped into the air, she thanked Finishing Touch yet again and he called back to her, “Remember that we open officially in three days, and you can both call me ‘Finn’ for short. See you both on Friday!”

Finn closed the door and looked pensively at his new shop. His cheerful demeanor was replaced by a look of tired displeasure. He quickly repaired the chandelier and set it back into its position on the ceiling. Once that was done he walked slowly into the back room thinking to himself, well now that that part is finished, it is time for the real work to begin. Turning for one last glance into the large room he whistled once again and the shop went dark.

A Plot Revealed

Fluttershy snuggled under the covers, enjoying a wonderful dream. In it she was soaring through the sky with a pair of blazing phoenixes. They circled around her, gleaming in the sunlight. Flames rippled from their bodies, but the fire didn't consume them. Instead it only made her feel warm and comfortable.

BOOM!

Fluttershy shot up in her bed in surprise. Her eyes were wide as she scanned the room for the source of the explosion.

BOOM! BOOM!

Two more explosions rocked the cottage with the force of an earthquake. Fluttershy yelped and shot straight up into the air. Angel Bunny bolted into the room and leaped on top of the bed. His sleeping mask dangled from one of his long ears and curlers were still lodged in his fluffy tail. He started leaping on the bed and waving for his friend's attention. Fluttershy clung to the rafters and shook in terror. When she noticed Angel, she called down, "What in Equestria was that?"

Angel shrugged his shoulders and pointed to the door.

"No, no, no. I'm not going out there."

Angel tapped his foot irritably and the shy pegasus floated down from the ceiling and alighted on the bed. "I don't know what that was, Angel, but I know I don't want to find out."

Angel pointed towards the forest and twisted his ears to give himself a crude mohawk. He accentuated his action by miming stirring a large cauldron.

"Oh my, you're right. That did sound like it was coming from Zecora's hut. Oh no, I'm the only one close enough to hear it. Nopony else lives anywhere near here."

She looked out her window and saw a glint of orange deep in the forest. Smoke obscured some of the stars as the tell-tale flames blazed in the distance.

Fluttershy gasped, "I have to tell Twilight and the others!"

ROOOOAAAAAAARRRRRR!

She gave a strained squeak and dove under the bed, shaking like a leaf in a storm. Angel grabbed her by the tail and started to drag her out. She was bawling and her body was wracked with fear. Angel quickly slapped the necklace resembling the Element of Kindness around her neck and pointed to the door.

"You're right Angel. I have to go."

She opened her window and took off into the night to warn her friends.

Princess Twilight Sparkle was enjoying a pleasant dream. At least her soft pleasureful humming and moaning indicated that it was pleasant.

"Wait, Flash. Don't put that there. It's not supposed to go there. Oh!" She rolled over with a contented sigh. "You did that on purpose. Now I'm going to have to punish you."

Fluttershy blushed as her she landed next to her sleeping friend. "Um, Twilight," she said in a voice barely above a whisper, "you need to wake up. There's sort of a situation. I mean, if that's alright with you."

She continued to mumble to herself, but Twilight wouldn't budge. Suddenly, an owl fluttered down from a nearby shelf and hooted in the princess's ear. With a start Twilight jerked up and rubbed her eyes tiredly. "That jerk. Thanks to Flash, now I have to reshelve the whole section."

Fluttershy cleared her throat and Twilight finally noticed her friend standing at her bedside.

"Fluttershy? What are you doing here this late at night?"

Fluttershy quickly told Twilight about the explosions and the roar that she heard. She also told her about the fire that was burning deep in the Everfree Forest. Twilight bounded out of her bed and rushed over to a desk on the other side of the room. Using her magic she opened a drawer and pulled out five scrolls.

"I'm glad I made this for just such an occasion. Spike! Wake up!"

The purple dragon merely grumbled incoherently and continued sleeping. Twilight marched over to his wicker bed and ripped away his blanket with a gust from her wings. He shivered, but only dug deeper into the cushion. Groaning in frustration, she used her hoof to flip him over and started tapping on his chest. He still wouldn't budge. With an exasperated growl she gave him an especially rough poke and was rewarded with a jet of green flames spouting from his mouth.

"Not what I had in mind, but I'll take what I can get."

She prodded him again and again and sent four out of the five scrolls. But when she prodded him to send the final scroll, the flames shot out from the junction where his tail met his body.

"Ewww, Spike that's gross!" She still managed to send the scroll, even if it was a bit unorthodox.

Fluttershy gasped as one of the scrolls materialized in front of her and chirped in a high pitched voice, "Emergency! Emergency! Come to the library! Quickly! Emergency! Emergency!" Despite the dire message, she couldn't help but laugh at it. She opened the scroll and it disappeared with a small pop.

"Twilight, those scrolls are adorable."

"You wouldn't think so if you didn't open it right away."

"Oh, um, what happens?"

Twilight shook her head as the pair descended downstairs to open the library. "I'm sure we are going to hear all about it."

About ten minutes later all six ponies were gathered in the library. Applejack and Pinkie didn't seem to be affected by the one AM wake-up, but Rarity and Rainbow Dash barely even looked conscious. Rarity mumbled something about beauty sleep and her room smelling like a bean burrito. Rainbow growled angrily at Twilight, "What's the big idea waking me up with an air raid siren! You could have used something more subtle!"

Applejack cut in, "Probly 'cause ya snore louder'n a full grown dragon."

Spike murmured, "I resent that," from his new spot on the couch.

Twilight flared her wings to get everypony's attention. "Girl's, we have a situation here. Fluttershy described some pretty horrific things going on in the Everfree Forest. As the Elements of Harmony it is our duty to investigate. Especially since Zecora may be in trouble. I can't teleport all of us there at once, so it would be faster to fly. Fluttershy, you carry Rarity since she's the lightest. I'll carry Pinkie Pie that way we can coordinate movements if something triggers her Pinkie Sense. Rainbow Dash, you carry Applejack."

"How come I have to carry the heavy workhorse?"

Pinkie bounded over to Rainbow and pulled a candy bar out of her poofy mane. "Rainbow, eat a Nickers."

Rainbow glared at her friend and swiped the candy out of her hooves. "Why?"

"Because you become a grumpy-mcgrumpypants when you're hungry." Despite the early hour she still managed to beam at her prismatic maned friend. Rainbow wolfed down the candy and Pinkie expectantly asked, "Better?"

"Better. OK, team! We have a job to do! Let's go save Zecora!"

All six ponies filed out of the library. When they were outside, they paired up as Twilight suggested and flew off into the night.

Patchwork led Dinky deep into the Everfree Forest. Only the light from the moon allowed her to see the surrounding trees. Even so, they were clustered so thickly that she could only see a few paces in front of her.

"Uh oh. Master is in trouble."

For the first time that night, her chipper tone was replaced by deadly seriousness.

"What do you mean trouble? Where is he?"

"Master is fighting, and I think he's losing. That way!" She pointed in the same direction they were traveling, but Dinky ran through the forest with renewed fervor. She shot through the dark forest with all the fear and determination that a young filly could possibly feel. Her friend was in danger, and that was all she cared about. A bright orange glow shimmered through the trees and Dinky barreled her way towards it.

Suddenly Patchwork whispered urgently in her ear, "Stop!"

Dinky dug her hooves into the ground and waited for the doll to explain. "Whoever Master is fighting is very strong. We don't want him to notice us."

Dinky nodded her understanding and crept stealthily toward the orange glow of flames. Soon she saw the carnage that the two combatants had wrought upon the once lush landscape. All the plant life was either burned or wilting from the smoke. Even the Poison Joke was looking green and sickly. There were craters pounded into the ground, silver spikes shoved through the ground and trees, a massive gouge in the earth where several trees were uprooted, and an outrageous amount of broken wood scattered everywhere. In the midst of this chaos stood the two fighters.

Finn was holding his signature top hat like a miniature cannon, and smoke was poring out over the brim. Sweat drenched his brow, making his hair hang limply down his neck. He suffered from a few burns, but he seemed to be suffering from exhaustion more than anything.

His opponent was the second strangest creature that Dinky had ever laid eyes on. The first was obviously Discord, but this stallion had a unicorn's horn, massive dragon wings, and snake fangs. His eyes glinted in the firelight and Dinky could tell even at this distance that they were two different colors. One of his wings hung limply at his side and blood streamed steadily down his right foreleg. Unlike Finn, his stamina seemed to be holding much better.

"I have to give you credit Finishing Touch. You are a much stronger opponent than I had anticipated. I think I'll even tell you my name before I kill you. So that you can spread it throughout the Underworld. Many more will follow at my hooves and you will know that you were the first. The one that started it all."

Finn panted heavily, "I... don't care... what you name... is. I want to know... why you want... the amulet."

"I guess you've earned a bit of information. It won't do you any good anyway. My compatriots and I only want one thing. We want the end of the world. This harmonious existence that Celestia maintains is utterly boring. Whatever happened to the good old 'fight-or-die' 'survival-of-the-fittest' mentality? Yawn! So we want to stir things up; make the world a little more interesting. That's why we want the amulet to awaken the Firstborn Dragon, Tyrgmott."

Finn gaped and dropped his hat in shock.

"So you understand? That's right, with the greatest and oldest dragon empowered by the Alicorn Amulet, his power would be unrivaled even by those so called goddesses."

"But the amulet would corrupt even the mind of the Great Drake! Surely you wouldn't survive either!"

The stranger bore a sadistic grin and his eyes flashed crazily in the firelight. "Probably not, but the fireworks will be spectacular. And now it is your turn to go out in a glorious bloody flash."

He bowed his head and channeled the magic into his horn. Finn took the momentary reprieve to throw a pair of dice at his opponent. The ivory cubes morphed into one large translucent die and swallowed the creepy reptilian pony, encasing him in a magical cage. The stranger smirked, "Too bad, snake eyes."

Dinky watched their fight from her spot just outside the clearing. She had no idea what the two were talking about. Something about a dragon, and an amulet, maybe something about the end of the world. It made her head hurt just thinking about it, but she saw the silver spike rising slowly behind Finn's back. She screamed, "Finn, behind you!"

Three things happened at once. First, the stranger broke his concentration, giving Finn the chance to roll out of the way of the spike. Second, Finn's roll broke his concentration, causing the cage around the stranger to shatter. Thirdly, Patchwork face-hoofed in shame.

The strange stallion chuckled, "Oh ho ho, now this is a surprise. Looks like we have an audience!" He disappeared in a flash and grabbed Dinky in his remaining wing. He flashed back into the battered clearing and started taunting Finn.

"Now who is this pretty little filly? I think she likes you, Finishing Touch. Oh she looks good enough to eat." He arched his neck and opened his jaws as if to take a bite, then slowly lowered his fangs to rest on Dinky's neck.

"Let her go! She's just a filly and she has nothing to do with this!"

"I beg to differ. She knows you, she saw our fight, and she has seen me. How much more involved can she be?"

Finn's eyes flashed with anger and he bared his teeth maliciously. His voice was level, but he accentuated every word with all the venom he could muster. "Let. Her. Go."

The stranger flippantly mocked, "How. About. No."

Finn was set to charge at his foe when they both heard a sound approaching from the sky. Three sets of wings beat against the night sky as the Elements of Harmony landed amidst the carnage wrought by the two combatants. Pinkie Pie was shivering uncontrollably and it was a miracle that Twilight was even able to keep her grip on the party pony.

"Be careful girls, Pinkie has been getting a doozy ever since we entered the forest." She immediately spotted the two fighters staring each other down. Finn held a grim expression that was totally unlike his usually whimsical self. The other pony...well...could hardly be called a pony at all, but his face was locked in a sadistic grin.

"Alright, what's going on here?"

The stranger pulled his fangs away from Dinky's neck and regarded Twilight with cold disinterest. "I'm simply redecorating this section of the forest. A few less trees, a few more holes, a towering inferno, spikes everywhere, a few splatters of blood. It's avant garde, no?"

Twilight was about to respond when she noticed a black fog oozing from under the strange stallion. He noticed it too and remarked offhoofedly, "Dear me. It looks like my time is up, but at least I got what I came for. I also get this delicious little treat."

The fog was slowly rising to cover his body, only his head, shoulders and wings were still visible.

"You better not hurt her!"

"Relax, Finishing Touch. I won't harm a hair on her mane. I do think she would make a lovely addition to our little family though. The Apocalypse Corps is always looking for new members." The fog had rolled up higher to cover his entire body. All that was visible were his eyes.

"By the way, I think now you will want to know my name. I'm not rightly in the mood to give it though, so you can just call me Zero." His eyes faded into the fog. A breeze blew through the clearing and the fog dissipated, with no sign of Zero...and no sign of Dinky.