BRAWLER

Chapters

00. Prologue
01. Break the Silence
02. Meeting Your Hero
03. Coming off the Blue
04. Bond

00. Prologue

What is the art of a fight? It is a question I ask myself often when watching these things go at it. That's my job though, not fighting of course. I am the mare in charge of promoting these brutes in the so called; 'tartarus world'. Similar to an underground...but tartarus suits it more when you see them.

I laugh to myself thinking about it; the real fight is down here, not up there. Up there the brutes are neatly kept, glorified as champions for the spirit of fight itself. Down here it's all about survival. I call it poetry to their will to live, even at the cost of another's life. A brute...I don't know why they go this crazy, but it isn't mine to know really.

I have to watch them fight each time, each time it gets a little easier. One thing I have learned in this business, that I don't mind sharing, is how tragically simple it all is. I mean we keep it that way because it works, why change perfection? Two go in, one comes out, loser's bets are ours to claim.

Simplicity is all around us here sadly, even with them. Just last week we lost another pony to Champ. We call him that anyway because he is now...shall we say retired, from the filly sport up top. Yes it's a him, you know how I know, don't pretend.

As I say, it's too easy. Everypony has to make a living, at least this way nopony else is hurt. No pony innocent anyway. So by now you must be wondering what a brawler down here is. There are actually two answers there. First. I have already told you is the filly fighters; they fight until one is out cold. In the tartarus world, we have the real brawlers; they fight until one stays cold.

Why pit them against each other like that? You would have to see it to understand. When the stakes are raised in the ring, the fight is beyond imagination. A beast, by any other species, could not stand up to a seasoned brawler here. They will do anything to survive. Lets look at Champ, now he was quite the benevolent victor in filly fighting. Down here the fights are so short you could blink and miss what he did. My favourite one so far...oh that would still be his first.

So Champ was set up for a simple round to exhibit his stuff. We threw in a female who had her share of course. The thing really got into it, the female that is. She went crazy on poor Champ, wasn't enough though. All that screaming must have gotten to him too, he made sure even her last breath was silent. It's a nice finisher actually; lot's of show and colour for the crowd. That's why they come here.

Now you must think we're all cruel to pit some animals together. The thing is, they aren't animals. The mind of a brute is lesser than a creature here, makes sense considering they aren't...oh I nearly said too much. These drinks are strong here!

Now when I say lesser, I mean it. Animals can at least communicate with each other, they can't. It took some probing but let me tell you this; if they ever did unite we would have to put them down. Brutes are...cruel when they fight, you don't want your worst enemy on the receiving end of that beating.

Now between us, I think it's the density of their bodies. Moving out an expired one is hard work, from what I see. Got to say; only a brute can break another brute's bones. I still get chills in that first shot you know? That hit you can hear break the silence of the crowd.

Champ is my favourite so far, problem is everypony is catching on fast. I don't really know what I can do to bring him down. Tried all sorts of stuff, maybe that bad leg will catch up to him today, it's the only thing keeping the bets uncertain.

If I regret one thing with him...its attaching those spines on the arm, plating the other arm, adding those teeth. Well nopony would bet on him in the state after he took on Echo. Won the fight, but we couldn't let him drop off after that; it was too much to loose. You know how I said they can fight...he really can fight to keep going. I find myself proud to be his maintainer.

You know, I can't see myself doing anything else. You meet so many nice ponies here, they just need to let off a little steam this way. Why not after all? Probably would get in trouble here if the Princess found out, she won't of course...but then I'm saying too much.

Oh well, still got a few seats free if you gals want? You said you know Champ from the filly fighting days...been a while. I think he's gone through quite a few tourneys since then, don't really keep count; not part of my job. You two want to see him in action again? Might be the last chance. Pay a little extra and you can go back in the keep to see the winner.

The best time to go gander at them is after a fight, good and tired then. Must warn you though, don't get too close. The bars are small but there are a few that can bend them with enough anger.

Now you must be wondering why I would go on about this to a stranger, besides the liquid courage of course. Well you are in this seedy bar after all. It's simple really; everypony has that little voice in them that begs to see such...action. I see it in you too. Admit it, your appetite is wet, why not quench that with a ringside seat? Since it's your first time, I'll knock a little off the price. It looks like there's a little something going on here, eh? A little show before some action later on. Not my job to know that of course! For that, I'll throw in a free hat for each of you. Do we have a deal?

01. Break the Silence

“Consarn it Rainbow! I’m not taking off my hat!”

“Fine, wear the cap on top then!” The tip of Applejacks hat came down heavily as Rainbow dropped the merchandise on top. A baseball cap laden with two heavy drinking mugs took it’s toll on her neck. She fumbled for the straw and drank the fizzing cherry apple juice. Stopping for a breath

“Why do you have to be this...buying?”

“Hey! Why not? These are collectible memorabilia. If this is the last fight of the champion, don’t you want to get the good stuff?”

“It’s just a t-shirt and hat. Why do they have to be so white anyway?”

“Oh I forgot the badges! The belts! We have to go back!”

“Oh no, I’m not going back to that craziness. Not a snowflake’s chance in a desert.”

“Fine! I’ll be back!”

“Wait!” Rainbow stopped her takeoff, waiting with irritation. “Let’s just watch, we can go after, alright?”

“What if they run out?”

“Did you see how much they had?”

“But-”

“Sugar cube! They wont run out,” she assured her.

“...Fine...”

The crowd in the lobby had simmered a little. Applejack did not mind waiting to take their seats. She and Rainbow had snatched a hum dinger of a deal from that filly in the neighbourhood bar.

It had taken some doing, but Applejack tracked down her old favourite brawler. She only knew him as the first champion in Brawling, a hero amongst all the fighters. The reason she, and Rainbow, both loved him; was the benevolence he showed in each victory. Never once did one too many a blow land on the opponent, he always showed camaraderie and kindness to the loser of each battle.

Applejack had actually shaken his hand once. She did not intend to do it but as he came out of the back rooms, he shook her hoof with the others. The thing that caught her attention the most, was his size. Brawlers were very large creatures, although she had no idea what they exactly were. It was the reason she jumped at the backstage pass to see the winner, to see him again. There was this little filly in her that hoped he could recognise his biggest fan.

Of course there were other ponies that showed their enthusiasm for a brawler, especially her old favourite. It was probably true that everypony was the best fan of the champion himself. Right now she was more excited for the fight to end, so she could meet the winner.

“Hey Applejack...you wanna...”

“Wanna what?” Rainbow sheepishly smiled while pointing to the booths on the side. “No! I’m not gambling for one single bit!”

“Aw come on!”

“No Rainbow! You earn your bits and they are yours for life. Gamble and they are just borrowed.”

“That sound like your grandma!”

“That’s Granny alright. Never not listened to her and I never regretted it.” Applejack nearly fell over as she stood proudly high, the two cherry apple jugs unbalancing her with ease.

“Well fine. You know you keep raining on my cloud, Pinkie could get into this!”

“Its evening anyhow. And I’m the only one who’d agree to com to this, it’s way too much fun to miss out!” As expected Rainbows ears betrayed her by perking up, the excitement clearly showing.

“It is,” she smiled.

“Do you think that there mare was serious Rainbow?”

“Whoa! Where did that come from?”

“I mean-”

“Look Applejack; when a pony sells something, they want other ponies to buy it.”

“Right...”

“So they are gonna talk it up.”

“I would never do that!”

“No, but then you’re the element of-”

“Shhhhh!” Applejack cut her off in an instant. “We don’t need that kind of attention here.”

“But-”

“I’m here to watch our champion again, not to have no pony asking nothing about nothing they need to know.”

“Applejack...”

“I’m sorry to rain on your cloud sugar cube, but-”

“It’s okay, I get it. Thanks for coming alright? It’s really nice to do this with a friend than alone.”

“Hey now, you getting mushy on this old apple?”

“I’ve been working on it, Fluttershy said I need to be more-” Rainbow stopped as the creak from the iron doors sounded and the crown they were in shifted forwards.

“Later, alright?”

“Sure. I just hope those tickets are worth it!”

“It’s Champ right? They will be.”

“Who is this twist anyway?”

“Never heard of him before, not an apples chance in cider he’ll win.”

“Oh I hope he does the Alley Oops again!”

They reminisced old tourneys as an usher in a red suit escorted them to the front row of the arena. It was a daunting place. The room was not as large at the stadiums which played host to brawling, yet it was easily large enough to accommodate the ponies. The stage in the centre was impressive. Instead of the barred square, there was a massive cage with mesh wiring and thick pillars on each of the four corners. At this distance Applejack could smell the rusty iron.

As Rainbow leaned back to look about, she saw just how many types of creatures there were; Minotaurs, ponies, sheep, goats, even a sea pony in his, or her, bubble suit. This was one of the reasons she loved this sport, the unity it could bring from a simple fist fight.

A pony came and offered her a complimentary box of popcorn, which she gratefully devoured. It was a very nice ay to begin the night. The crowd grew more bustling as time went on, waiting for the event to start. Rainbow Dash grew bored, unable to talk to Applejack from the sheer volume of her surroundings.

At least the seats were comfortable, the smile from her friend as pleasant when they exchanged a glance. It was of course not just the fight she enjoyed watching. Rainbow liked bonding with Applejack, especially since she was...almost as good as her.

The arena went dark a moment, the spectators fell silent. Applejack felt a sense of anxiety, retained enthusiasm for the fight. Rainbow’s hoof, or at least she hoped, grabbed hers with an almost bounce of excitement. When the lights came on, the crowd roared a welcome to the brawlers in the ring. There was Champ and Twist.

What made the strongest impression was that their arms were chained to the floor. This was an amazing start already, a lot of show.

The display carried on to their costumes. Champ had some sword attached to his arm, the makeup made it look like it came out of his arm. There was a hole in his right cheek, a plated eye patch just stuck over the same side; no straps hanging there. The patch has an awesome snake eye drawn over it. The markings he had were very cool. The word brawler was drawn over the right chest, a shield coat of arms underneath on the belly. The right chest on the front had a piece of armour, again made to look like it was coming out of the body. As Champ twisted about she saw the left of the back had the same design. The hands were interesting, in that one had a single spike on the second finger. The left arm was armoured in a similar style to the chest. Both legs of Champ seemed fine, no problem at all. This was the first time she had been this close, brawlers were very large. If she stood next to one she might have reached waist high, it was amazingly cool.

Twist did not have as many pointed pieces, aside three forward facing horns on ether side of his jaw and in the centre of his forehead. He was even larger than Champ, scary in the hulking height as he calmly focused on the smaller opponent. His body was plated around the shoulders and belly, very intricate spray paint markings on the areas. The designs were graffiti in their style, proudly bearing the marking of a magnificent eagle clawing out the back. There were five silhouetted of brawler shaped creatures on the right shoulder, a clear warning that made the aesthetic more awesome.

All this detail Rainbow could see proved one thing; these tickets were an absolute bargain.

The announcers voice called a hush to all, booming over the speaker system and flat walls.

“LADIES AND GENTLECOLTS. WE HAVE OUR BRAWLERS! STANDING TALL WITH A GRAVITY DEFYING FOUR HUNDRED...TWIST!” The approval for the announced fighter was deafening.

“Champ’s got his work cut out for him!”

“What Rainbow?” It was very difficult to hear with all the shouting.

“Champ! Work cut out!”

“Oh yeah! Still want to take back the bet?”

“No! Champ can do it!”

“If you say-”

“STANDING OPPOSITE AT A MEASLY, TITANIC THREE HUNDRED....CHAMP!” The cheering that followed was impossibly louder. What was surprising is how such a small crowd could even achieve the volume. They fell silent as Twist shouted out.

“YOU KNOW THE RULES...” a blue mist started to envelope the cage, the fighters began to pull at the chains. For a show, this was surprisingly...scary. That was the only word for it. Each tug shook their bodies and the stage floor, their anchoring was real as they seemed to desperately struggle.

“BRAWL!”

Applejack cheered out, alone. She quickly silenced herself as many eyes glared in apparent irritation. She could only smile sheepishly, grateful when they returned to the cage and the struggling two. Champ was having trouble breaking the bonds, Twist had no problem there. He ripped the bracket out of the stage, throwing the arms out high to pull the chain apart in spectacular fashion.

Applejack enjoyed watching the muscle flex as they each pushed through. Now she understood why this fighting was better; the rules were different, they were meant to fight with everything they had. One thing though creeped into her thoughts; was that pony just selling the show?

Twist waited as Champ tore his wrist free of one shackle; the one of the sharpened armour. He used the spike to cleanly break the other shackle, it was certainly real. The snarling and anger of the two were magnified in the silence.

Each readied to charge. Twist seemed to be enjoying this, being larger than his opponent the fight already decided to him. Champ did not share the content, his face still bearing a snarl under the plating. He took a step forward with a loud thud, Twist mirroring the action. They each broke to a charge, their beating stride quickening as the bodies came to one another. Time slowed for Applejack as they collided. Champ ducked under a shot from Twist, roaring as he threw the body up in a furious grip to slam it to the floor. With that echo of a hit, the crowds silence erupted to a chorus of cheering. The fight had begun.

Applejack was as enthusiastic as Rainbow, chanting their favourite with forelegs over shoulders as he worked on Twist. The hit winded him, enough time for Champ to land a few shots to the stomach. Each one was strong enough to shake the stage as it hit, the scraping of metal on one another as Twist threw him off with an artful spin.

Applejack and Rainbow ceased their cheering with a shock at the sight of Twist. As he rose, there was apparently punctures in his stomach, the plated armour over his heart had been scraped badly. They glanced to each other a moment.

“Just... Just show,” Applejack read on Rainbows lips. She nodded and watched on, this time her smile and cheer did not come.

Twist did not wait for Champ to get up. He sent a shocking kick to the body, apparently reeling back with pain at the shot. Champ used the spin and returned to a low crouch, eyes focused on Twist. He kicked off the charge again, the larger Brawler was ready this time. As champ ducked under the shot again, the other hand came up to the throat. Champ was lifted clear up with a roar, he was held in suspension with the crowd.

The cheers and scorn loudened with the action, the ponies behind banging their hooves on the seats in front.

“Come on Champ!” Applejack had to cheer for him, this fight had fewer rules apparently. Rainbow did not cheer, she seemed to be in a state of shock. That was strange considering she convinced Rainbow this was all staged.

Applejacks smile faded then as champs arm rotate, and the bladed armour swiped upwards to apparently slice into the arm of Twist that held. The hand opened with halfhearted shot from the other arm. Champ staggered back, but did not fall. He threw the spiked elbow forward, Twist blocking it with the plating of his own to throw sparks.

As they beat into one another, one thing was shocking in its display; every second hit drew more colourful spray from them. If this was a show, it was amazing, and baffling, how they had done it.

Twist tried to ram the spike on his head into Champ, it failed as the protrusion bent away on the eye’s plate. He screamed for some reason as he pushed away to break the contact. The reason became clear as he held his neck, a neat trailing of grooves from the jaw. The reason became clear as Champ visibly spat to the floor, the white underhoof no longer carrying the neatness it once did.

A smell drifted to Applejack a moment, this was not an imitation. That smell was real. All enthusiasm faded as the reality sunk in; this was no brawl they were watching. A hoof on her shoulder and a glance affirmed Rainbow’s equal revelation. She wanted to look away from the battle, but this little feeling would not let her.

Champ had capitalised on the stumbling of Twist. Applejack had missed the movement, but now the spike on his elbow was neatly embedded in the back of Twist. The eye closed in a way that gripped her stomach, such an haunting expression. Champ spun about to slice the bladed arm into Twist’s face, the larger brute stumbled to collapse on one knee.

Twist widened his eyes in a mighty charge forward, it was futile as Champ threw the plated arm upwards to hit the jaw and pivot the larger brawler to the ground. The crowd fell deathly silent as Champ went on. It was the sounds that were the most horrible, a snarling animal would have been music compared the agonised screeches. Twist kept trying to hit Champ, each time the injuries just became worse as his arms were clawed and bitten. Now the smaller brawler’s eyes widened, the mouth opening to fully illuminate those shining teeth as he collapsed to Twist.

Applejack looked away, taking Rainbows hooves in hers with a squeeze. Her friend held her tightly, a foreleg pressing Applejack’s muzzle to her chest. It felt warm here, soft with mild pricks of coldness. Rainbow’s muzzle on the back of her head confirmed her friend was following the example.

Neither had to look to know what he had done. The stifled, gurgling roar of Twist was all that was needed. With a deafening silence, the weight of the brawler fell to echo about the arena. Champ’s scream was one of pain as Rainbow saw him fall to his good knee.

The crowd remained silent a moment, waiting for the winner to stand once more. He did with great effort, that leg severely trembling. She had forgotten entirely it had been damaged before, the mare mentioned it in the bar. What was haunting to Applejack as she stared at the victor, was his eyes. They did not carry rage or triumph, they barely held a single emotion as the shimmer from the metal arm raised high.

“Ladies and Gentlecolts! We have a winner! Put your hooves and whatnot together for...CHAMP!” While the cheers around them were deafening, Applejack could not join in. As she looked to Rainbow, the feeling was clearly mutual. Unfortunately the description was no enticing banter. That mare had spoken the truth about these fights.

The lights fell dark a minute, the snarling made Applejack hold tighter to her. Finally it rested, and the lights cam on to reveal only Twist in the ring.

The ponies around them stood up as the ponies in red suits escorted them to a different doorway. Rainbow tapped Applejack to recover, the reaction was not unique. Looking out over the murmured crowd, there were a few who shared it with them. This...Rainbow could have lived a lifetime without seeing this. Her only comfort here, was her need to comfort her friend. Today they had seen a death of the hero they once knew.

“Excuse me Madam, you want to see the winner?”

“Umm...AJ?” She nodded in her chest, although why was a complete mystery. “Could I get a minute?”

“Of course, Champ wont go anywhere. I understand it’s lousy to loose a bet, sunk a lot of bits into Twist I am sure. I lost a pocket too on him, tell you that guy will not go down.”

She wanted to scream at this beast, but this was neither the time nor place. As she thought about it, her desire to see the champ was fearsome. She wanted to know he would be alright, she needed to know that. Having seen this, she was sure of two things only. First, he was still the champ. Second, they needed to stop this. Now.

It became more silent, the board above them showing the name of Twist struck through with a glimmer of magic. The next two names Rainbow did not recognise, there was no chance she was going to stay to watch more.

She thought about stopping this now, standing up there and pleading to the creatures. The only thing that stopped her, was the question of why these brawlers would fight each other like that. What could have possessed them to do this. The greatest fear was what would happen if it did not work, especially with Applejack here. It was clear that the Princesses needed to stop this, and she knew four. Rainbow knew the place now, she could find it again. A plan had formed. Applejack’s sob brought back her attention.

“Maybe we should just...go?”

“Then...then what?”

Rainbow had to lean in, whispering carefully. “Then we come back with the Princesses.”

“No.”

“Applejack?”

She pushed herself off Rainbow, instantly composing herself. “I am not leaving here without him.”

“What?!” Rainbow glanced to the usher as his attention focused on them, looking away as she scowled. She lowered her voice, “How do you plan to do that?”

“Granddad used to be an auctioneer. He learned me a thing of two about the power of bits. Didn't know him long, but learned a lot. Let’s see what it takes.”

“And if we can’t pay?”

“We will.”

“Look I’ve got maybe five bits left after-”

“Dash, I promise you I can pay.” Rainbow stared at her hooves as if they held the answer. She could understand it, if anypony could it was her. This though was dangerous. So many questions came to mind. She she stared down, she nearly lost that popcorn in revulsion. These once white shirts suddenly made sense, seeing Twist on them.

“Rainbow?”

“This is crazy.”

“Now how did I become the crazy one?”

“I’m not arguing, but please just be safe okay?”

“Pardon?” Applejack seemed taken aback by that one.

“Please don’t do anything...ditzy. I’ve got your back.”

“Thanks...let’s go bag us our brawler.”

As she wiped her eyes and followed the usher with Rainbow to the back rooms, only one question came to mind; just how in the tarnation of tartarus was she going to do this...

02. Meeting Your Hero

Whatever was going on in this place, it was clear it was wrong. The back room to the brawling arena proved to be something from the darker of imaginations. Lighting was limited to exclusively focus in each area a brawler sat. They were contained in basic cages, thickened triangular bars neatly set up around each one individually.

The sounds of hoof steps were all that could be heard in the room, eerie considering how many brawlers there were. If there was one striking feature about each one, it was the smell. Applejack did not have the constitution to look at some of them, the festered injuries and offensive odours turning her eyes forwards.

It was remarkable how calm the usher was. He strolled by them with ease of mind, not a single glance to any of them. Seeing Rainbow move closer to herself, it was a composure she envied of him.

They were guided down a flight of stairs to turn about under the area. Looking ahead, there were only two cages now present; one brawler on its back only to be seen. Champ was clearly visible, seemingly blinded from all the lighting around. Beside the cage was a familiar mare examining him at a distance, the same one who sold the tickets to them. She turned about and smiled broadly, the only sense of warmth down here. It was a strong contrast how her kind eyes, white mane, and warm summer sun coat contrasted the darkness. Something distinct though was her cracked horn.

“You can get going now chicken.” She gestured to the Usher and seemed to gratefully trot out. “Welcome Ladies!” Her accent was now less slurred than in the bar, it reminded Applejack of the fast talking city ponies.

“Umm...hi? Weren’t you kind of...you know, at the bar?”

“Oh I get over those things very quickly. Got your bits worth on the opening brawl alone I bet. Want to look at my prize huh? Really thought he was going down there.”

“How?”

“That knee should have been it, Twist never capitalised. What a fight though! Told you his finisher was the greatest!”

Applejack had to stifle her revulsion being reminded who was now staining her white shirt. “It was...a finisher alright...”

“I see you got an awesome souvenir. Very nice pattern indeed. The fibres will lock it into place, just iron it before you wash it and its a keeper.”

Applejack had to nudge Rainbow seeing the anger she was about to release. “Yeah...awesome.”

“Well come on then, take a good look at your winner. Stay behind the red line ladies, no need to be loosing anything today.”

“Is it that dangerous?”

“Well we do have measures, but why risk it.”

“What do you mean by that?” Applejack was more curious as to how her champion could allow himself to be subjected to this.

“Well, the bars are sharpened for example.”

“And that smoke?”

“Just a little something to give them a few minutes nap, nothing that would harm the body.” The triangular bars made more sense now.

“How do you keep them like this?”

“Easy really, just add the right mist in the air and there we go. They are mostly the same colour unfortunately, so we have to be careful with labels.”

“How does smoke do that?”

“Something in the formula. It actually makes it very easy to treat him for the next fight.”

“So you do treat him then?”

“I do quite a lot, got to keep him fighting. The other trainers are not so...prepared shall we say.”

“Prepared to pay to look after them?”

“That, and prepared to get in and look after them.” She tapped her horn for emphasis. “Nearly got me once, had to up the dosage there.”

“So they are not so friendly...”

“That was when he was still new, broke him in now. Watch this.” She shimmied up to the side and tapped on the bars with a rod of some design. The brawler within stirred to sit up, the whole time his eye focussed on that rod. “Up there sunshine, didn't think I’d be seeing you again.” The brawler’s balance, even seated, was sloppy. It was disconcerting to see what he was, considering before. “I said hello sunshine!” She hit the bars to echo off once more in their ring, he seemed to wince at the sound.

“Master.” The voice, while growling deeply, was strained in the effort to form words. Applejack was not aware they could speak. The words themselves tied a knot in Applejacks stomach, a great sadness settling in.

“Say hello to these two ladies, they paid good money to come see you back here.”

“Hello ladies.”

“Umm...hi.”

“Evening Champ.”

“Don’t they look pretty? Apparently lost a bit on your fight.” She waited but no response. “Sorry, they don’t really speak the local language. Say they look pretty.” She hit the bars once more, now he seemed to gain some lucidity. It was difficulty to watch, to have everything in her scream to stop it. What made it bearable was placing her granddad beside her, and knowing what she waited to do with Champ. There was already an idea seeing his current condition, she only needed to wait for the right opening.

“They look pretty.”

“Good boy. Now you just stay put.”

Applejack say Rainbows distress, she still hadn’t let go of her hoof. With a squeeze and a pleading smile, she reminded her friend she was there. It seemed to work.

“Well he is a big one, and very strong.”

“I don't know what I can tell you, this one is something. I've seen his leg break, but he can still stand on it. Doesn't look too good though.”

“You don't want to treat that?”

“Too much money, not worth the fix.”

“I thought he was tough? You don't want to invest in that?”

“Nope.”

Seeing the tired eye of the brute, there was a lot of anger in them. Enough to make her take a step back. “That’s a shame.”

“Like I said, he's not worth the fix. Not sure anypony could get close enough to do it. I'll tell you something...he is one ruthless monster. No compassion, not even for his own kind.”

“Really?”

“Took down a female last time. She did that to his leg, he did the same to her neck. Poor thing was gone before she hit the ground.”

Applejack had to restrain herself hearing this, having great disgust in maintaining a feigned enthusiasm. “That sure is ruthless. Got a fighting spirit.”

“You know, how was he not the favourite to win?”

“I don't boast, gets some of the more...naive ponies to bet otherwise. Oh nopony is going to believe it. You should see some of the beasts he's taken down.

“So he's your best?

“Yup.”

Applejack could see something; she was talking it up. Many a time had she dealt with sales ponies and this was a pitch. Her granddad taught her the signs to watch for. “So...hard to contain huh?”

“Yup, that there is the strongest cage I can put together without wasting the cash. Other fighters cooperate. Mine over there...” She gestured to the dark. “He's broken, a little thing that I can rely on. Sort of like a pet.”

Applejack looked about but there was nothing she could see. “I don’t get it sorry.”

The mare smiled and tapped her hoof three times. Applejack jumped back as a dark coloured brute stepped out from the shadows. It looked nothing like champ; tall and modestly built, wearing fine armour of the darkest black.

“Relax, he’s a good boy.”

“You..have two?”

“I own about seven actually. Champ it my best fighter, but Titus here is my best companion. I keep him as a...protector.”

“So he’s a bodyguard?”

“Not really. With him around, Champ doesn’t try anything funny. What better to keep a brute down than another brute!” she laughed. The brawler behind her remained silent, his expression steady as his focus shifted to Champ.

“So they...can be...tamed?”

“Sort of, I have a collar on Titus just in case. Never trusted nopony before.”

“Mind if I ask some questions?”

“You got the ticket there mare.”

“Alright...” She thought about the next series of questions carefully. They would have to be designed in a way that showed interest in one, but not in owning one. “Why are they hairless?”

“Oh, that’s our work, no hair to grab onto during a fight. They do have some hair in the pits of the upper arms, head, and various other places. I just weaved a spell to remove it all.”

“And what about the...decoration?”

“The writing? He did that to himself.”

“I mean the...armour?”

“Oh...” The mares voice became saddened. “That was a while ago. We’ve tried to graft steel to a brute before, he was the first one to survive and lead the way for others like Twist. The procedure is dangerous sadly, Titus here has none for example.”

“I thought you said he was hurt.”

“He was, that’s why we did it. I don’t want to get into details.”

“How was that blade necessary?”

“Hmm... After we fixed the crushed facial area, I decided to add some things in one go, instead of many. Make it quick at least.”

“So this was your doing?”

“Hey, he was worth it back then.”

“And now?”

“Nopony...or otherwise, wants to pit theirs against him. He just doesn't bring in the bits.”

“And what do they...eat?”

“These here are carnivores, no different than the next flesh eater. They are weird though, like it better cooked.”

Applejack was so stunned she could not speak, fortunately Rainbow did not have the same problem. “Oh come on! How could you keep a flesh eater around?! You expect us to believe he just lives off water or something?”

“Darling, you’ve seen what he lives off of already. In fact, I guess they are already preparing it.”

The casual tone and realisation did cause Applejack to release her stomach into her mouth. It was sheer force of will that returned it to the rightful place. Seeing the funny look on the unicorn, she casually tried to avert attention. “E..excuse me.”

“So you...umm.”

“Its alright, not many ponies know about it. It’s not a secret, but it’s just something they assume, never confirm. I was shocked when I learned about it too.”

Rainbow still had her jaw dropped, sounding words out in gibberish. Applejack squeezed the hoof again, snapping her friend back to here. “So they eat...”

“Twist was a big one, that’s a good week or two. But I guess you should know they do eat other things.”

Applejack didn’t want to ask, but her mouth had other ideas. “Such as?”

“Well there are no rats around for a reason. Bug; fruit, veg, other things... They pretty much eat anything.”

At this mentioning, Applejack had an overwhelming urge to jump away from the cage suddenly. Looking on him, the eyes were squarely focussed on her. He did not move or react, but that instinct told her to move. There was more than enough to convince the Princesses to end this. Looking at that leg though, he wouldn't be around long enough for that. There was one way out for him; “How much?”

“Oh?” the unicorn slyly answered. “Does this here little guy interest you?”

“He does, as you say he's not much of a fighter with that leg now, probably will lose the next one. I can make better use for him.”

“One or two more fights though can easily come in helpful to seal big money.”

“Sounds like you're trying to pull a fast one.”

“Really? Now they all know what he's made of, when he goes down they will lose a lot of bets.”

“But they know he's injured, how many ponies would bet on a one legged horse?”

“I suppose...” She smiled as she rubbed her jaw and stared at Champ. “Still going to take quite a bit to convince me.”

Now the game was going to begin, Applejack would have to make her granddad proud. “Well... Let's start at ten.”

“Ten! Ha ha you are joking!”

“I said start.”

“Make it one hundred and ten.”

Applejack cursed the fact that her ear twitched at the price, a tell to her situation. It was a lot to ask. “Why shouldn't I just canter out right now?”

“Go on, I see you want him. It's not my job to ask why. Gotta tell you they don't make that great a companion. Seriously lacking if you catch my drift.”

“Fine then, fifty.”

“Still not hearing, make it one hundred and fifty.”

“I...can't pay that for this.”

“Then we are done here. As she turned away to make for the stairwell, Applejack was lost on what to do. The mare passed her with the dark brute following, a smirk at having employed one of the oldest ricks in the book.

Applejack looked to Champ, almost as though to apologise. He did make a movement in that instant however, it was enough to furrow her brow in confusion. A hand raised up to point a finger in her direction, then to the unicorn. He seemed to mouth a word she could almost understand, the shining teeth causing her to wince as they shifted.

“Bet?” He nodded to her, a feeble smile of approval. The idea hit, she trotted past the red line and came close to him, the brawler not moving at all. “You want out?” Again he nodded. “You will not hurt me?” With his shake of the head, an urge caused her to spin about and shout at that keeper. “Hey! We're not done!”

She slowly turned with a smirk. “Oh?”

“You like bets? Let’s make one.”

“What on the outcome of a fight? I would rather have the money!”

“Well you have my offer. Fifty for a near dead brute.”

“What did you have in mind for a bet then?”

“Name it, your terms.”

The unicorn trotted beside Applejack, passing the red line without the slightest care. Her reason became obvious as Titus eerily rounded the cage to stand behind Champ, a slight tap on the bars to gain his attention. The unicorn seemed intrigued by Applejack’s energy.

“You really like him...don’t you?”

“Like I said; he’s got a fighting spirt.”

“You plan to breed or rebuild?”

“I don’t know,” Applejack chuckled.

“What do you mean?”

“I just don't know!” she laughed out loudly.

“Hang on a moment, you’ve seen him in the filly fights! Oh I get it! This is some infatuation you got.”

While being offended, Applejack did not correct her in hopes of sympathy. At this moment, the keeper had the upper hoof. “Sure, now what’s the game?”

“Never said yes dear.”

“Didn’t say no either.”

The smile she gave Applejack was very unnerving. “I like you.” She tapped her jaw in contemplation. “Since you really like him, care to show it?”

“Umm...Applejack, let’s just forget this please.” Rainbow did have a point, but that look he gave moments ago...she could not trot away.

“Hush now, I got this. Show you huh? Depends...”

“Get in there with him. If he doesn’t maul you, you get your sixty.”

“I said fifty!”

“And I’m saying sixty! Want to make it one sixty?”

“You really are something, you know that?!”

“Hey, hate the game not me.”

“No, You are not getting in there with-”

“I got this Rainbow! Just simmer down.” She released.

“Actually...” the mare began, “fifty if you both go in.”

“Deal.”

“WHAT?!”

“I need a minute to talk to my friend here.”

“Take a lifetime! I’m not-” Applejack grabbed Rainbow and dragged her off a few more hooves away. She whispered in a manner that seemed to calm her friend instantly.

“Look at me Rainbow, You said you’ve got my back.”

“Of course I-”

“Keep it down.” It was difficult to maintain a calm voice. “That is our favourite brawler right there, and he’s in serious trouble.”

“I know AJ, but he isn’t our friend, he will-”

“Not do one thing to us, you saw him nod.”

“Yeah, but they don’t speak pony.”

“Don’t need to, he wants out badly. Now you get in there with me, and we’ll sort this out. The...P’s are going to need to see this to believe us completely. They need to see it.” There was silence for a while. “Bow?”

“Alright...” she sighed. “Are you sure sure sure?”

“I am. I can’t explain it, but I am.”

“So what do we have to do.”

“Honey, that there is one serious carnivore. You get in there with it, with your friend... I’ll take that fifty. Bear in mind, he hasn't been fed for a while. It’s what gives them an edge in the fight.”

“Alright, you still got my back?” Her friends nod was what gave her strength to step to the large door. The mare flickered her magic to open the lock. It was one lock, but by the sound it was a heavy one. The ominous groan of the bolt did little to stave the nerves.

“One thing before we begin this, you understand I might not be able to get you out of there.”

“I do.”

“Then why risk your life? For some beast that could do you in.”

“They are are tough like you say. Truth be told I want to preserve him, if he's as strong as I've seen.”

“Oh he is. You know you begin this, you aren't coming out. I've seen him tear the throat out of one of his handlers. Asked for his help, fool never saw it coming.”

Now there was a lower certainty as to why it had nodded. She needed to believe these things were worth saving. She saw those eyes, there was no hatred for her. It had looked so sincere. Her instincts told her what to do. The door swung open and she took the first step, Rainbow hesitantly following.

“Deal.”

“W...what!?” Suddenly that sly composure broke.

“Did I stutter?”

“No...no, but...he will kill you.”

“No he won't.”

“Honey, I'm not going to let you get in there. Let's talk a serious price. You can have the body when I'm done, easy to study. No brute is that important.”

“You will accept my offer right? No strings. Let me in.” There was an argument waged with stares at that moment, one that did not contain words. After some minutes, the mare sighed.

“At least let Titus-”

“I don’t need that thank you.” Applejack stepped confidently through the doorway, the unicorn dumbfounded as the two stepped in.

The mare slammed the door, the bolts locking in place again. The brawler did not move. Applejack cleared her throat to try relieve the dryness.

“Hey. It’s alright.”

Rainbow grabbed Applejack’s foreleg tightly as the brute shifted to try and stand. It was more painful to watch as the weight shifter and the metal components twisted in their vice of muscle and skin. Applejack nervously faced the dark corner as its dull thuds approached. She had the urge to panic again, but stifled it in an instant. The limp was terrible to watch, every agonised grunt drawing closer.

This was insane, she did not know this thing. The question of sanity came frequently in her mind as she saw it lumber closer. Something inside her was strangely...excited. That is what is was after all; excited. She felt as a filly did meeting a famous pony. She was excited to meet Champ.

Her enthusiasm and fear wrestled furiously with each approaching step. She gasped as Champ’s head washed over with light. This was the first time she had been this close to a brawler, his size was titanic. He was certainly taller than Celestia herself, the tallest pony she knew. The size was intimidating, it rooted her in place. She wanted to speak, but it was difficult.

She looked quickly to Rainbow as she swallowed audibly, she was as transfixed as her. A loud sniff from Champ and stole all focus, her breath shallow and quiet as he glared. He repeated it, turning to the keeper.

“Master?”

“This...umm...this here filly wants to...own you.”

“Own is?”

“Ah, idiot. She buy you. You go way.”

“I go?”

“I speak clear?”

“Yes Master!” His voice escalated in panic a moment, Applejack understanding as she saw her brandish that rod again. Even her brawler was tense; hands on the side and muscles tensed.

“Bend legs!” He complied with a heavy thud as the body collapsed to the knees, a tremendous wince betraying his pain. Applejack wanted to reach out to him, he looked so...broken. That was the best word for it. This brawler she admired and supported for his determination and will was now a weakened pet.

“Done gawking?”

“Umm...sorry. Just taking it in.”

“So am I! Never seen this before, you two should be gone. I know what you mean, first one is always a shock up close. Take your time to see all. Don’t be afraid to drop that ridiculous belt if you want more.” Applejack looked at the twisted fabrics as they twirled around the waist, that makeshift draping providing little dignity.

“I...don’t think I need that right now.”

“Really? Alright. Regretting your choice?”

“Not one bit.” She reached up to touch her hoof to his face. As it made contact with the rough skin, something remarkable happened. She saw his face wince, then soften. He appeared to relax at the sight and feel. She cast a smile now, enjoying the feel of his hand as it reached up to her hoof. A bang made him jump, and nearly made Applejack scream.

“What do you think you’re doing? Do not touch! No touch! Idiot.”

“Sorry master.”

“That mare in front of you is your master now. Anypony with the chops to get in a cage with you, is aces to me.”

“So we have a deal.”

“I actually was thinking about it. I would rather have the bits than the headache of another body. Just for fun though, get him to hug you and I’ll throw in the wagon to haul him.”

“You were going to skimp us on the wagon?! After...my friend just dropped that many-”

“It’s alright, you got a deal.”

“Are you crazy!”

The mare smirked smugly. “Your funeral.”

Applejack leaned in to the sagging brute, barely able to reach his ear. She whispered very quietly to him, hoping with all her heart he was the creature she imagined him to be. “I want to get you out of here. No more fighting. Just please trust me. Please trust me.” She whispered all the emotion she had into it, every piece she could to plead his cooperation. “You hug me and she let’s you go.”

“Hug...what is hug?” The voice was loud this close.

These words pained her, only adding to the picture of what had happened to him. “This is a hug.” She reached around to hold him, not too tightly.

“Hug...” Her breath was caught as she felt the arm come around her slowly, the cold metal touching her back as it eclipsed. Strangely her eyes closed and cheek pressed in, a smile easing its way.

Applejack knew why she was smiling upon seeing the keeper; her smirk looked as though it had been smacked clean off. “That’s right.”

“Ha!” Rainbow’s outburst made her jump again, all these sudden noises were havoc on the nerves. “Sorry, looks like we get a free wagon then.”

“How...how did you do that? Please, what did you say?!” The mare’s shock removed all enjoyment from the victory.

“I told him I wanted a hug, then I showed him what one was. Looks like the big guy needed it.” She was not wrong, the patch of dampness on the shirt she had told her so. He had tucked his head over her shoulder, calmed breathing and relaxed body doing much to motivate her. It was the good side, the one without plating or exposed teeth.

“It can’t be. I’ve never even seen it...”

“I thought you ‘explored’ them,” Rainbow mocked.

“After a heap of restraints and tranquillisers! You, are a brute whisperer for sure! Never seen one myself!”

The astonishment seemed ridiculous to Applejack. Her only focus however was getting him out of here. “It’s alright, let’s go home.” She released him and he hesitantly followed the cue. The face remained expressionless as she backed out, an open door being held for her.

As she and Rainbow stepped out, the door did not close. They waited expectantly, before finally the unicorn gestured to the brute still in the cage. “You have to haul him to the wagon, there’s a depot yonder.” She pointed towards darkness, lighting up a lantern on the far end of the chamber with her magic. It illuminated a large wagon, similar to circus carts but heavily armoured.

Rainbow’s sigh came out loud and clear. “We’re gonna have to haul it ourselves...aren’t we...”

“Oh come now, I bet I can pull faster than you.”

“We’ll see!”

“First you have to pay up, sixty as agreed.”

“Ahem.”

“I mean fifty sorry.”

“I bet you are,” mumbled Applejack. “You got a phone?”

“You can’t pay with cash?”

“Obviously I didn’t expect to be buying my very own brawler.”

“Obviously...”

“I can make a transfer through a phone, and I will pick up the late night fee. You know your number?”

“Wow, no worries here.”

Titus brought a long distance cable phone, the hand easily cradling it as he kneeled to hold it to her. “He speaks pony?”

“Oh he has to. Tough to train, a lot of positive reinforcement. Now if you please.”

She dialled the number and waited as each ring sounded out. The mare watching leaned against Titus and folded her forelegs, eagerly watching. Applejack knew she was being ripped off, but she allowed it for a good reason. If this mare was cheating her, she would want them out of the area as soon as possible, a goal for both of them to share.

Applejack could have lied, but she did not want any pursuit with the condition Champ was in. Another problem was being too honest; nothing she said tonight was a lie, why start now. Finally somepony cheerily answered, “Bank of Ponyville night service, Mrs. Zuinig speaking, how may I help?”

“Umm...hi. This is AJ.”

“Oh hi sweetie! How’s your brother and the little one?”

“They’re fine thanks. How’s Mr. Zuinig?”

“Still in bed with the flu.”

“Still?!”

“I know right! I told him to try the carrot soup but he’s just so-”

“Ahem! Want to hurry up there sweetheart?” The mare tapped her hoof in irritation with a playful smile.

“Sorry... Mrs. Zuinig, I kind of need to make a large transfer tonight. How fast could you move sixty thousand bits?”

“What?!” Even titus chuckled at the surprised squeal. “Are you in trouble or something AJ?”

“I’m fine sugar cube. Just buying myself something pretty.” She winked to the mare, sickened to do so.

“You can’t talk right? Just say your birthday and I’ll know.”

“I promise I’m fine, even got Rainbow here.” She held up the receiver in invitation. Rainbow eagerly accepted.

“Fixed that hole in your roof yet?!” She had cheered up quickly, perhaps it was the fact that her favourite was going to get out of this madness.

“I see dear. You know what I need then to make this happen.”

“I know.”

“And you’re sure? I have to ask what your buying.”

“I’m investing in my own brawler.”

“A what?”

“You know...brawler. Those two legged things that beat each other senseless.”

“In the filly fights maybe,” chuckled the unicorn.

“Alright, I need the number.” Applejack handed the receiver to the mare.

“7 18 9 5 14 4 18 8 9 16” She handed the receiver back.

“Who is that?”

“That’s the owner I’m buying him from. You got the number?”

“No worries, says the account belong to a...what’s her name?”

“Hang on, what’s the name?”

“Filly Fighters Anonymous.” She smiled as though pleased with her own joke.

“Filly Fighters Anonymous.”

“Alright, password?”

“Lock the account after the transfer please, password is two one three five D.”

“Alright honey... You really are sure? You’re going into fighting?”

“I am sure thanks. See you in the morning.”

“Alright dear, you take care now. There are easier ways to get a man you know...”

“I know,” she chuckled with the teller. “Thanks.”

“Night dear, money’s already there.”

She replaced the receiver and Titus took it back to wherever. Suddenly a beeper sounded from the mare and she removed a concealed pager from a pocket on the neat brawler. “Alright! He’s all your problem now.”

“Thank you.”

“Do you want Titus to haul him up?”

“I don’t-”

“Applejack...problem!” Rainbow jumped back as Champ stood high, most of the weight focussed on his good leg. Titus draped his arms and clenched his fists, facing the direction of Champ.

“BACK OFF!” Applejack’s shout stunned the brutes. “That’s my brawler and I’ll be darned if you hurt him.” She stormed to his side and grabbed the hand, avoiding the blade narrowly. “You won’t make trouble, right?”

“No...trouble.”

“It’s just amazing.” Champ lumbered into the awaiting wagon, every step being watched by the neater counterpart. The doors slid open with the help of the mare’s magic, the sound alone betraying how heavy it was. “Bye big guy. Going to miss you.”

“Bye master.”

She sighed in frustration and held her hoof to her head. “Such an idiot.”

“My problem now.”

“You got that right.”

Champ staggered to the back of the container, not even a sliver of moonlight treading through. AS she watched him lower to the hard floor, she whispered carefully so as not to be overheard. “I got you Champ. We’ll be home in no time, let’s get out of here.”

“Thank you,” he whispered. She stroked the cheek one more time, having to tear herself away from the urge to remain there. She pulled out and the door crashed loudly shut. Rainbow was already waiting by the mounting bracket.

“Need to wash your hooves?” Applejack was not as shocked as she should have been to notice the stains on her hooves, matching the ones on her shirt.

“I’m alright thanks.”

“Not staying for the other fights?”

“Can’t, got a champ to fix up.”

“And good luck there.”

Something was bothering Applejack a lot about what she had seen tonight. “You know, you have great control over Titus. Why so surprised about Champ listening?”

“He’s never been broken.”

The comment nearly made Rainbow faint. “I see.”

“I know what I’ve said and all...but watch yourself with him. There is always that little spark nothing can get to, he has a lot of fight in him.”

“I will. It was a right pleasure.”

Applejack mounted the brackets with Rainbow, and used all her strength to haul the wagon forwards. It was surprisingly simpler than expected, the weight barely a problem on the smooth road.

As they pulled away, Applejack glanced back to see the mare high hoof Titus.

“You okay AJ?”

“Yeah, thanks Rainbow. I mean thanks for just listening and trusting me.”

“Hey, you weirded out too?”

“Yeah...”

“What’s the plan now?”

“Let’s get some distance from this place, patch him up for the trip, and get him to my barn.” Applejack noticed Rainbow staring at her. “What’s wrong sugar cube?”

“You’ve done a really awesome thing just now.”

“Anything for our fave.”

“You bet. I don’t have too much AJ, but I will help out as best I can. No arguments.”

“I...appreciate that.”

“Where did you get that much anyway?”

“It’s not important right now. We need to keep this steady, nice and slow.”

“Scared to race me I bet. Next time I’ll whoop you good.”

“It’s a deal.”

Whatever they had witnessed tonight, she and Rainbow knew it was wrong. There was one major nag in the back of her mind in this eventful circumstance; Was that too easy?

03. Coming off the Blue

It was fittingly cold tonight, the only warmth or light coming from the lantern that dangled on the side of the wagon. Something that was very striking for Applejack, was how beautiful the sky was. Normally she did not pay attention to the stars, but she was feeling reflective and melancholy. Stars were strange, sprouting randomly in the sky. A funny thought came to mind if she was in control; those stars would be much more orderly.

“This is crazy.”

“I know Rainbow.”

“Remind me why we just blew those bits?”

“He would not have made through the next fight.”

“I think he could have.”

“Even if he did, they were fixing for tonight to be the last one.”

“Right.” All she did was stare at the ground in contemplation of that reminder. “AJ?”

“Yeah?”

“You as freaked out as I am?”

“I think so.”

“I still feel sick. How can they get away with that? I mean why doesn't something like that just say no to these fights?”

“If he did, the cages make sense. I doubt any creature would want to be in those conditions at all.”

“I guess... It was really lucky we found him.”

Now the nature of this suspicious night came back to remind Applejack of what was happening. “Wasn't too easy?”

“I think that mare took us for suckers.”

“I hope she did, then the worst is over.”

“Still worth it?”

“Even double.”

The heavy cart behind slowed to a halt with her lead, Rainbow as relieved for the momentary break. Applejack dropped the reins of the wagon to inhale the fresh countryside air. She had been hauling the container with Rainbow for what felt like a long time. Her nagging worry now could find relief being at a greater distance from the arena.

“Alright, we're far enough now.”

“Far enough for what?”

“I need to get in there and have a gander.”

“Applejack, he's had time to rest.”

“So?”

“So that thing-”

“It's not a thing!” Rainbow snapped back in surprise at the outburst. Applejack turned about to stare at the foreboding doors, only imagination seeing the creature inside. “Sorry... He needs help.”

“I know, but if we move faster we can get home to Twilight. I'm not too keen on seeing him agro up on us.”

“I'll be honest with you, I don't think any if that shaking around helped. I know you can smell that too, it's bad.”

“I understand, i’m worried too. It could be dangerous.” Applejack took the lantern down from the peg to fully illuminate the doors. “I'm not letting you open it up.”

“Try to stop me.”

Applejack removed the first bolt before Rainbow's hoof grasped hers. “I'll do it.”

“You'll what?”

“Look AJ. If things get tough, I can fly away.”

“But I can't-”

“Let me just do this, stay back and wait please. You are way too slow and we can’t trust the idea that he won't hurt us. I mean...you saw what he did already.”

Reluctantly acknowledging the offer with a nod, she retreated a significant distance from the wagon. Every few hooves Rainbow would gesture to gain a little more distance. It was understandable, they were not sure what the motives were for cooperation. Applejacks instinct was to trust him, but Rainbows were not the same. The contrast was reason enough to be cautious.

Applejack waved to her friend, watching her pull at the bolts and hoist the door ajar. It was heavy, groaning complacently as the metal ground it's way open. No sooner than the half door as fully swung to expose a dark interior, was she joined by her friend with a gust of wind and exhale of relief. “That...reeks!”

Normally she would have chuckled with that, but her attention was enraptured with this thing now. They waited together, Rainbow holding onto Applejack and ready to fly. Time dragged on, the dim moonlight only illuminated the swaying of with grass and trees in the breeze.

It was difficult to wait, to stare at the dark empty gape of this cage. Fear failed to hold Applejack, terror managing to push her forward. Rainbow settled beside, slowly stepping in closer. She squeaked in a restrained scream as Applejack cleared her throat, that confused glare at her giggling only encouraging it.

“Relax there, lets see if he's still alright. Hey Champ! Can you hear me?!” There was no answer. The minutes moved forwards for seemingly hours before Rainbow whispered.

“Can he even understand us?”

“I know he can. Look, we want to help you! You need help. Please just come out here and let us look.”

“They waited for any response, nothing.”

“You got another light?”

“Only the lantern, but we have to get close to see.”

“No choice here,” she sighed. “Light it a sec, let me just grab this.” She removed a rod from the side of the wagon, to the shock of her friend. “I know, but some animals don't know we're trying to help them. Just in case.”

“I hope you know what you’re doing.”

“I wrangled me a critter or five before, this ones hurt so be careful.”

“Alright...”

They cautiously stepped into the dark, the lantern providing some light in its feeble glow. The smell and heat were incredible for one animal to have generated. Te containers surface was padded, insulated, the first sign of any true compassion for the brawlers.

From this distance, they could see the glinting of the metal in the brawlers body. A few steps more revealed his unblinking eyes. Applejacks breath stopped as she watched the chest, a breath confirmed after what felt too long a time. She smiled to him, the only response a blink. What made it worrying was how he watched her; widened eyes and tensed muscles, constantly looking to the rod she held. His body was slumped on the back wall, sagging arms and legs.

“Hi?”

He swallowed, the opened cheek doing little to hide the gurgled gulp. “Help...”

“That's right, we're here to help.”

“To help.” He raised the plated hand to touch his chest. Applejack nodded and he seemed to sigh.

“We want to help you. You understand?” He nodded in response. “My name is Applejack, this is my friend Rainbow. We think you need something for that knee, but we need to know you will not hurt us.”

“Not...much...speak.”

“Great...this is going to complicate things. What do you want to do AJ?”

“I...don't know.”

“Let's start with this.” She stepped forwards to the brawler, he did not move from the sullen slump. She continued to come into the reach of him, still no movement. His intentions were confirmed as he closed his eyes and screwed up his face, almost afraid. “You won't hurt us, right? Take my life?”

“Master...is life. I no can take. I take...brawler, and master’s no friend.”

It was very difficult to understand what he meant, but the exhaustion apparent spurred Applejack on. She was now a fraction from him, reaching her hoof out to rest on the plated left hand. She held her breath as her frog contacted the knuckle. He did not move. She jumped back as a movement caught her eye; Rainbow had taken the other palm in her hooves, avoiding the two spikes on the fingers. Her tenderness was surprising, the concern quelling all fear.

“Rainbow?”

“He's hurting...just look.” She followed the eyes to his hand, he had lost a lot from those minor cuts. The heat from the knee she was standing over was radiating upwards. It was an indication to how much damage had been done by that female mentioned.

“New master...is...” Applejack waited but the words did not seem to come.

“I'm not your-”

“Maybe that's not a good idea.”

“You..buy. You are master. You hold key.”

“Key?”

“This I think.” Applejack held up the stick she unsheathed from the wagon. He seemed to tense as she held it closer. It was a simple item, a black rod with a rubber grip and a lever to squeeze on. She squeezed done on the lever, a series of aggressive and violent sparks shooting off along the body of it. The sudden crackling startled her enough to drop it, never had she been so conflicted.

“That's... Horrible!”

On one hoof, her only defence had fallen away, the brawler now watching her next action. On the other hoof, he did not move. It was strange as she picked it up again, he did not try to escape. She showed a true sign of trust, turning about and throwing the rod clear out of the container. She spun abruptly about to the gaping mouth of Rainbow and the brute,

Look! I'm here to help, nopony is your master!

“No master?”

“Applejack!”

“You no master...” He seemed to growl as he said it,

“No, I'm your friend! Do you know what a friend is?”

“Know...is?”

“To understand.”

“Look, friend.” Rainbow grasped the heavy spiked hand and gently shook it. We are your friends. Applejack was proud of her courage, it was clear that alone relieved some of his tension.

“I...know...friend. You not fighter keepers?”

“We are not fighter keepers.”

“We...are...not fighter keepers,” he imitated.

“I could not leave you there in that pit. Is your old master going to pull a fast one?”

“Fast one...many words I not..know.”

“Will they come to get you back?”

He thought about it a moment, the eyes looking to the upper left. “If they come, I brawl. I no...think they risk.”

“You would fight them?”

“Master is in trouble, I brawl to protect. Life of you is high.”

“Thats terrible, but I understand. Right now, let's look at that knee.”

“Look at knee?”

She hovered her hoof over the swollen area. “Help.”

“I...know.”

“You mean you understand.” He nodded. “That’s Good. Please hold still.”

“You want me still...still like others?”

Applejack could understand what he meant, although she did not know why. “Not still forever. Still for a minute.”

“He doesn't get much at all.”

“Understand minute. Sixty seconds on clock, average brawl time.” She nodded, a shock at being reminded of the brawlers nature. “I hold still for sixty seconds.”

Alright. Her hoof gently pulled up the cloth, allowing him to retain what little dignity he had. She examined the leg, every movement being carefully followed by her friend and him. He winced as her hoof gently pressed on the top, then growled as it probed the area gently. Something strange needed to be confirmed by probing the other leg; the kneecaps were on the front strangely, one of them completely shattered. The damage could have been worse, it needed a scan.

“What's wrong?”

“I think his knee is right done in. We'll get him to the vet.”

“A vet?”

“Her scanner is large enough to take a gander and she's closer to help out.”

“Can we do anything now? I mean I can bandage it up but I don't think that will help.”

“Me too, best let it air out.”

“Bad.”

“Don't worry Champ. Will be good soon.”

“Sorry Master. I no more strong.”

“No saying sorry. I think you meant; I am not strong anymore.”

“I are not strong anymore.”

“Close enough,” she smiled in gratitude that he was trying, although he did not mimic the gesture.

“Alright Champ, listen please.” He turned to look at Rainbow. :We are friends of the princesses, they can stop this.”

“Stop.”

“That's right. We need you to stay strong and alive. Please don't give in.” Seeing the glazed eyes, it was certain Rainbow’s fears were well founded.

“I will stay strong. I no stop.”

“I don’t think he gets it.”

“He will AJ.”

“I agree. Now do you need something Champ?”

“Thirst.”

“No worries.” Rainbow darted out the container for a moment, leaving Applejack alone with it. While it seemed harmless enough on the surface, being alone with the brute brought a new sense of terror. Her mind cruelly ran scenarios over what he could do to her if that fighting spark emerged once more. She fought the urge to scream as his plated hand tapped her hoof.

“Master...thank you.”

“Champ, how long has this been going on?”

“Not understand. Sorry.”

“Ah it's alright. Just stay put for a few more hours.”

“Will stay for a few more hours.”

“Here!” Rainbow darted in with the Aquarifist, the official drink if the brawlers. “Drink up big guy.” He grasped it weakly with the trembling right hand. Rainbow merely carried the drink to his mouth, the hand slipping off in understanding. “It's okay.”

He drank gratefully, emptying the comparatively small bottle in seconds. Some spilled out through the teeth on the right side, no cheeks left to hold it in. There was another spilling, it betrayed a broken spirit. Applejack had to check twice to be sure. “What's wrong? More pain?”

“Thirst, never thought...to taste this again.”

That one managed to hurt, the truth of it sinking in. As she thought about it, she could see him standing in the ring not a few months ago; his arms spread wide in triumph, his favourite drink the greatest reward for victory as he splashed it about himself. Wishing was for fillies, but Applejack wished with all her being they had found him sooner.

Rainbow was as eager as her about this ordeal. Her hoof stroked the scared arm as he drank, never had Applejack seen Rainbow this tender. It was endearing. She noticed Applejack’s staring and quickly retracted her hoof with a blush. Looking up with a smile, it was clear he had fallen asleep.

“I'm not sure this is going to work...the roads only get rougher from here.”

“We have no choice sugar cube.”

“We might...”

“What?”

“We are not too far from an old friend.”

“Wait, we’re in...are you sure Rainbow?”

“I don't know. We haven't spoken since that whole visit fiasco. I mean maybe she should help because I know she's a fan. If you're going to be alright here alone I mean, this won’t be a five second dash.”

Applejack thought about it very carefully, the eyes she looked into were not ones to fear. There was a trust in them she recognised. “Worth a try. How long do you need?”

“Depends on her. I'll be sure to make it quick, I promise.”

“If you can, it would really help him get there safer.”

“I know. Good luck AJ, please be careful.”

“You too.”

With an hesitant beat of the wings, she watched her friend disappear to the night. Now came an overwhelming feeling of dread, knowing she was right beside such a creature. It was dread for no known reason, not even instinct was sure what should be felt. She slowly stepped out to the cold night.

After a stretch and and an attempt to shake of the exhaustion, she retrieved a thermos from the wagons side saddle. It was something they had picked up a mile or so from an inn, a warm drink of something sweet. She was glad Rainbow could be so insistent sometimes. Returning to the back of the container, the brawler remained slumped against the far side. She stroked the good cheek gently to coax him back. The eye did open to be followed by a look of pure confusion to her.

“Champ, I need you to drink this please.” She unscrewed the top and poured the hot drink into it, watching the steam sway as she stepped by his left side. The right was too dangerous with the stained metal there. After blowing on the surface to cool it, she placed the beverage to his lips. He managed to sip some of it, the eyes now too weary to open. He drank the entire cup, the leftwards tilt not allowing ant to spill out this time. She screwed the cup back on top.

“How is it?”

“Is it warm.”

“You mean; it is warm.”

“It...is warm.”

“Very good.”

She moved to the side as he lay on the ground, beginning to shiver. Applejack looked around for something, finding some blankets in the side in a pouch. She took a woollen one and tossed it over, his body was very cold. Extra effort was set into tucking his paws and legs. To see him shivering here, a shell of what she once knew, was surreal. The reaction had come very quickly, the drink had perhaps reminded him of the cold night.

“Champ? Can you drink some more warm please.”

“Not want.”

“I know, but you need to.”

“Cold...c...cold without smoke.”

“Smoke?”

“Blue smoke. I....think worse now with no smoke.”

A realisation hit as she remembered the mist beginning and ending that fight. The shaking made sense now, this was something she had only seen in school a long time ago. The shivering, sweating, he was in agony; he was in withdrawal. Every instinct in her commanded not to do it, but it was impossible to just sit there and watch.

“Come here.” She reached over and leaned in, he did not move as she held on to what she could. Adding pressure was unwise with the blade under the blanket, it must have made it difficult to sleep properly. The frame was large, engulfing in its mass. There was this dismay in her over holding such strength, brought to a state by a time she could scarcely imagine.

In her sadness an urge gave in to kiss the shoulder, a salted bitterness in the balked texture. She shushed his complacency, offering more of the cup. He sipped from it, almost whimpering with the swallow. Do you know what's happening to you right now?”

“N...no.”

“Your body is coming off the blue smoke. It was a poison.”

“Feeling very weak. Poison...is?”

“Bad stuff, hurts you. You will feel terrible tonight. Give it time to adjust.”

“Adj..ust?”

“Change.”

“Sorry.”

“You're sorry?”

Sorry for words, weak. Weak brawler is dead.”

“No no. Just try to go to sleep, it will make it easier.” He drank some of the cup again, most of it spilling to the floor. The hand managed to wrap around it neatly to remind her of his dwarfing size.

“Ah this won't work.” She She stepped out quickly and grabbed a part of the wagons storage tarp. “Hold up your sharp arm please.” He complied slowly, the mechanism twisting clumsily as it balanced on the spike. She wrapped the part tightly around, draping another blanket over herself as she settled beside him.

It was probably unwise to be here, but she knew he needed warmth from another body, at least the blanket over him dampened the smell. She tested the fit, hoisting the bladed arm over and fitting against his belly. He did not look comfortable, trying to shy away.

“Master should not, dangerous.”

“No no. I am fine and you are too. Does this feel good?” She nestled against the softer section of his chest. The trembling simmered, as did his laboured breathing. “It's alright, you're safe here. I promise.”

“Master...”

“You need something to be safe right now, I am here for you.”

“Why?” That was the confusing question. If anything, she was here because of what her Granny said; kindness is difficult, because it is the most rewarding. That alone kept her this close, a desire to give something back to the one she respected. That respect was well founded, already he had shown faith in what was happening. “Master?”

“Doesn't matter right now, just please get better.”

The weight of his plated arm sank down as his breathing deepened. It was a tremendous force, but bearable. The icy metal did not feel comfortable. At least the draped the blanket over the both of them would warm it up soon.

“You not as old master, old master was...hurt.”

“I know. How are you feeling?”

“Smaller cold. Master is very warm.”

She sighed. “Look Champ, could you please stop calling me that. Now that I think about it, what's your actual name? Do you like being called Champ?”

“Champ is joke.”

“Because you were the champion...”

“Old champion, yes.”

“Well, what name would you like?”

“Name? I can have another name?”

“It's up to you.”

“Can I think?”

“Oh of course, but I have to call you something for now.”

His eyes visibly wandered in thought. “No know. Old name no longer here.”

“I got nothing neither. Well, you must call me Applejack. Say you, not master all the time.”

“I must sh...show respect.”

“You already have by not hurting me.”

“I...want t..to.”

It was becoming more difficult not to tear up. This reminded her of a time long before now, this action a comfort she had felt for a long while. “Hey, how about Adam?”

“A dam is?”

“That was my grandad's name, I think he would be honoured a champion brawler has it. Adam Apple, perfect. You like it?”

“Apple?”

“Fruit.”

“Why name of fruit?”

“Oh, that’s my family name. Applejack Apple.”

“You have a good name, Master Applejack. Name of Adam is smart.”

“You know what an Adams apple is?”

“Target on brawler throat, takes breath away for time. Correct?”

“Oh. Yeah...that's right.” He seemed to have learned all his language from only fighting, an unpleasant reminder yet again.

“I not know why you help...thank you...my friend.”

“Could you...say that again. Please.”

“Applejack is a good friend. Correct word.”

“What is a friend?”

“Friend is...feel safe.”

“Thanks. The grip around her tightened as she nestled in.”

His trembling became worsened, she reached up to the head as his whimper came through. She needed to smother this turmoil with the only thins she had. She pressed her muzzle firmly to his, the action easing the shaking.

:Look at me Adam. The eyes hesitantly found their focus. You are safe with Applejack. I promise.”

“Applejack.”

“That's right. You just let it all out, I am here for you.”

“I not know why you are safe, but I know you say to me one day.”

“Even tomorrow. It's alright, Applejack is here.” She did not understand why she did it, but she kissed the snout. He was strangely salty in taste, it felt great to just kiss him. It was empowering to be able to bring safety to this dwarfing animal. It was relieving to see that the trembling resided. The only way she could help now, was to be there for him as best she could.

“Master must not.”

“I am not your master, and I can do what I want to you. You need to know there's somepony here for you.” She kissed the forehead, even the metal plating could not repel. Tucking her forehead under his chin, she sighed deeply to welcome the beginning of sleep. His rough voice tickled as he spoke.

“Thank...you.”

“Not yet, I got to earn that one.”

“You...earn it now. Where other one go?”

“She's gone to get help, we need to get you somewhere safe and fix up those... Umm... She gets help for you. Trip rough, not smart to shake you.”

“I understand, thank you for speaking easy.”

“No problem.”

“Master Applejack has seen me before in the filly fights.”

“Yeah,” she sighed. The deduction was surprising and thrilling. It was unclear if he remembered her or he simply concluded it, but it was flattering to know he could know that.

“I happy to be your...umm...”

“Friend?”

“Friend, he agreed.”

She tucked her forehead in further,nestling to give him any further comfort she could. The smell had become more bearable with the exposure. The fresh air and lantern did help. “Sleep now.”

“Yes Master Applejack.”

The night was sadly not over, she needed to rest quickly and hope Rainbow could recruit that hardhead to help them. Another daunting task did approach however; it was to find a reason. A reason why in all sanity she was helping him, risking so much for this stranger. A reason why it had felt too good, to kiss him.

04. Bond

Applejack was standing in a familiar place, yet the walls were too darkened for her to recognise it completely. In the room she was in there was a gut wrenching sound of metal against metal. She thought nothing of it though for some reason, looking to the sound in idle curiosity. Applejack spoke a name her mind could not recognise, and a shadow in the darkened walls moved closer.

Her heart began to race seeing the sickening construction of an insect like creature with exposed metallic bones scrape towards her. Turning on her hoof she ran to the door and kicked it open, the stairs a clear path down, quickly blocked by another monstrous abomination with a stomach churning gurgle.

Se spun and kicked off down a hall, running will all her speed until she collided with a far wall. The faster monstrosity was tearing its way toward her as its pieces glinted in the pale lighting that did grace this hall. She felt trapped, and kicked out on all three sides to break free. Her legs hurt, her body grew heavier as the heart teetered on the verge of exploding in the madness.

All her fright accumulate into a whimper then, and she fell back as the creature descended on her.

With a shout Applejack woke to a cold sweat. Instantly she felt the icy morning air, shaking it off at having been caught unaware. Her heart was still beating almost painfully fast, she could feel it swelling in her chest with each frantic gulp of air. She was till in the container, come cage, they had moved Champ away in.

As the senses returned and the scale of the place she was in kind, she noticed an absence that left her questioning the realities of the night before. She retold the events in her mind to be sure, all of them ending in a fear that the newfound Adam had taken advantage of her exhaustion and escaped.

Thinking about it now, what was she thinking. Looking over her body and checking all vital areas, the doubts emerged in a tide. Applejack had spent the night with something she had witnessed massacre one of its own with extreme efficiency. She stood up realizing something; not a scratch was on her. After all the stories around the Brawler she had still dared comfort him in a very frightening time...and he had not harmed her.

Shaking her head, now growing more painful with each throb, she inhaled deeply to try shake off the drowsiness that stubbornly remained.

There was this horrible smell, truly the most foul stench she had experienced. Managing to stand with her spinning head and weakened knees, she successfully wobbled out of the wagon to the sunlight. There was no trace of Rainbow Dash, now Applejack was worried.

She looked back and screamed seeing Adam atop the cage and posed as a gargoyle might do. In the light, he looked even more monstrous. The twisted metal around his body glinted through the stains he collected on his person. The terrifying teeth were what forced her to step back in their twisted smile. The gut wrenching doubt emerged with a newfound appreciation for what it was, and what it could, probably was going to, do to her.

She stifled the shriek with her hoof, and took in the bizarre sight. It looked to her then, and jumped to the ground to quake it in the seemingly casual landing. It landed on one leg, wincing as the other was bent to accommodate the landing force. It did not move, remaining on one knee before her. Whether this was from the pain or respect, she was compelled to speak.

“A...Adam?”

It rose, the voice considerably more clear than last night as it echoed around the metallic grinding of the needle bladed teeth. “Adam is?” The tone of a question was clear, and Applejack was less inclined to dart away now. With his familiar voice her terror was inclined to run away instead of rooting her to the spot.

“Y...”, she gulped, “You...are?”

“You sleep close?”

“Ye...ahem...yes.”

“Why?” His eyes narrowed with the growl as he said it, and the tiny eye on his intact side of the face watched her with unmistakable malice as she leaned more on her front hooves. Applejack found her confidence now, knowing this moment would not only define her motives to him, but her very life.

“You were in trouble there Adam.”

“Speak small!” he barked, startling her. Applejack regathered herself a moment trying tho think it out.

“You have blue inside.” She gestured to herself awkwardly to illustrate. Blue is gone, you shake,” She stood on her hinds and shook her body to show him, “and I sleep close to help.”

He walked to her, the long blade of his arm catching a ray of the sunrise to bring it startlingly back to her memory. “Help is lie, what-” he stopped then and looked at his heel. Applejack smiled then as she recognized the electrified prodding tool she tossed away last night. He looked up and the good half of his face smirked. “No more pain, now you pain.”

“NO!” she sternly shouted. “I no want use. Bad to use.”

His brow furrowed in confusion. “Bad?”

“Bad,” she repeated instinctively.

He stared at it for a while a calm descending on the morning allowing the chirping birds to tickle it once more. She watched in sew as the rod slowly warped in the plated hand, then sparked as it fell apart in his crushing grip. He stared at her then, and she at him, each scaling what they were looking at.

Applejack could not imagine what eh was thinking, or even if he could remember her from all that time ago, but she took the sight in marvel and disgust. The creature she and Rainbow once knew had been butchered to become a butcher. His left dies was armored with scraped smooth plating, the opposing side boasting three blade like spikes that could be seen. One came out of the right arm, the second out of the elbow, the third out of the knee.

He had several subtle mechanical parts it seemed that meshed artfully to allow crude imitation of muscle and skin. Seeing this transformation was hard to say the least, yet now one word described what Applejack was looking at; unstoppable.

“Very warm,” he finally broke the silence with. “You are master?” She nodded. “You trust much for home open.” She looked back to his cage, the statement making a little too much sense. “I not...” He tapped his head with the good hand, “much. I am Champ, but now A dam?” She nodded again, tanking a step closer. “Master are name?”

“My name is Applejack. You don't remember anything?

“I know Twist gone to darkness. I know your face. It brings...good feeling.” He examined the grafted blade on his arm. “Good feeling...reason you not go to darkness.”

A cold shock washed over. Applejack winced as another pain shot up in her head, she grasped it tightly in a futile effort to stop the throbbing. It subsided with the sudden fear of not seeing him clearly, her eyes looking up quickly to see he had not moved.

“I used my money to buy you. I help you not go to darkness?” she said unsure it was translating correctly. She winced again with a particularly nagging throb in the temple.

“Master pain?”

“My head! It’s really hurting something fierce.”

“You have blue, you have my pain.”

“What's happening to me Adam?”

“Pain normal. You touch me on blue, you take part of blue. Pain small in me, big in you.” She looked up with bewilderment, “Learn with old mates.”

“Learned with...wait, I got that blue stuff in me?”

He nodded. “Little. Do so.” He gestured in a way to imitate the flowing of air in and out. “Pain go soon.”

Applejack felt instantly foolish. This was a type of transfer through contact, something which explained a lot. It must have been in his sweat as the body expelled the toxins. They then were absorbed by her own system. Despite it all, the fact that is was a little amount in her system, only made her imagine how much worse it was for him when the picture of the blue smoke cloud came to view.

He came closer to her but the anger was visibly gone, more so the instinct to flee had failed to emerge as the distance closed with each limping thud. She looked up as he placed a water canister in front of her, not sure of what to do next. His words were only now beginning to sink in. “I no drink, clean.”

“You were going to send me to darkness?” He nodded once, and it paralysed her. Such terror came that her legs buckled, the shattered ideal of what she imagined him to be. The creature here was different to the one that she had held asleep. “But...y...you did not.”

“No. home open, master no have enforcer. Master sleep...close me. You not master, as master with horn. Horn pony is not safe.”

Hearing that, Applejack could understand. It still was more chilling than the air was now to think he had that much awareness, and to imagine what would happen if he did not. “Umm...thanks?

“Drink water, blue out faster.” She obliged with a cautious sniff, very wary of exposing her throat to him. “I no hurt...you old pony.”

“Old?” The meaning was lost, because her age was obviously less that he horned mare form last night. She turned to follow him as he limped to sit on the grass, mouth open in awe as his silhouette blocked the sunlight in its height before receding to the ground.

The form was no less intimidating with less height, for now her legs itched thinking about what one swipe could do. As she circled to the plated and more intact side, he did not move, seeming more focused on other matters with a worried furrow of the brow. It was strangely insulting how casually he had dismissed her interaction.

Applejack took a deep breath to watch the mist blow out of her nostrils. Sitting a few hooves away, she ermined focused on him to be safe. He winced then and hit his upper arm with the plated hand.

“Pain?” Although obvious, she needed to keep talking to understand what he was thinking.

“Dangerous...sleep close...be close. Brave Applejack.” That somehow coaxed her to nudge closer. “Two came, I see one.”

“Two?”

“One of you...and blue.”

“That was my friend, friend.”

“Pony as you?”

“Rainbow Dash is my friend and is like me.”

“Master Rainbow.”

“Alright Adam. Do not hurt her.”

“Hurt...”

“Go to darkness?”

He nodded then, resting his forehead in the bladed arms hand. The horrible scrape gave a visual aid to how he lost that eye, if it was truly gone on that side. “I not hurt...Master Rainbow.”

Applejacks curiosity was compelling her to ask. “Do you understand why you fight?” He stared for some moment before answering.

“I am Adam. Brawler to Master Applejack.”

“No. I mean what is happening?”

“Happening is?”

“You fight other Brawlers to darkness, why do you do that? How did this start?”

“I fight to see next day. Start with bell, not help me. We know of one who...is Master of masters. You understand?”

Applejack sighed at the barrier, upset it would now take more time to fix this. She laughed once imagining Twilight loving to step in and teach him a thing or two. “I do not, but I understand there is some creature at the head of all of this.”

“Master of masters is head, I cut forever.”

“She...” Applejack said out loud in contemplation. “A lot of Brawlers?”

“I not know. I know nothing much. Cannot understand much...stupid.”

“Hey now.” She rested a hoof on his bare shoulder, not a trace of fur left. “You’re not stupid. You did not send me to darkness, you are not stupid.” He grunted in a dismissive manner, a detrimental manner. “We will have to sort this out later. Right now you need a real fixing. Hows the knee?” Applejack pointed to the spike protruding from his knee for clarity.

“Knee...much pain.”

“Well we’ll get you cleaned up as soon as you get home.”

“Yes Master. Drink. I no want to end you, you safe.”

“I guess you would have already done it...can’t say I blame you.” She popped the lid and drank deeply, it was definitely spring water. He had been away some time, and she cursed her heavy sleeping with a shudder to the nightmare that came. Applejack rose on time as always however at the crack of dawn, so it was likely he did all his activities before the sun came up.

“Busy morning?”

“Yes.” The s was icy with the deformed mouth then. Isolated it sounded more of an hiss.

“Did you clean up in the river?”

“No understand.”

“It’s alright,” she laughed. “I can we are going to have to learn you a think of two.” he did not respond, still looking numbly out to the dawn with the every rising sun.

“Pain Adam? Too much pain?”

“I want gallop.” She remained silent as he gestured to the open expanse. “I want gallop no stop.”

“Why don't you?”

“I no where to gallop. I stay.”

“Do you want to stay?”

“Still much pain. Hurt to understand. You...you say words I know are nice, kind voice. You buy me from horn and Titus.” It was clear he understood little and did not express that confusion much, it betrayed his pride.

“That's right Adam.”

“Why?”

“Oh dear.” She sat down beside him. “Looks like later has come.”

“No understand.”

“You are better than that.”

“No...understand, Master.”

“I want to be your friend. I buy you so you not...go to darkness?”

“Ah, that I understand. You are Brawler keeper?”

Applejack responded calmly, stifling the offence that insinuation instilled. “No...”

“That good. Not smart...to let Brawler cage out.” He pointed to the line of trees bordering the open meadow. It was a bright and sunny morning in the least, the lovely light bathing the field in gold and the speckling the trees with flakes through the foliage. “Brawler hunger quick.”

Somehow it made sense to her. “What did you...do?”

“Eat. Very hungry. Need food.”

“What...umm...”

“Master does not want to understand. Master-”

“Did you eat Rainbow!?” she yelled at him.

“Rainbow?”

“My FRIEND?!!”

“I no eat Master Rainbow pony Master! I swear!” He leaned bak on sudden fear as she rose up to stare at him with terror nod disgusted rage. His fearful eye encouraged it somehow. “I eat small white thing! I no eat Master or blue one Master, Master!”

“You eat what!?”

“No name to me, small with big ears.”

“A bunny?”

“No know name.”

“A rabbit? She held two ends of her mane up to illustrate for him.”

“Small?” She parted her hooves for him, hoping that this was not the rabbit she feared it was.

“Smaller.” He held out the plated hand to gesture with two fingers. It was too small to be a rabbit at least and she sighed with relief. There was a terror in his own eyes at her anger, and she looked away feeling guilty. He had enough of that back there.

“I..I'm...sorry.”

“Is..Master...”

“I'm fine Adam. Just scared me there.”

“I never eat you pony. I very hungry when wake.”

“Alright...but you have to stop eating critters!”

“What is...craters?”

“No, critters. Little animals.”

“No eat animals. I need eat craters. What else?”

“Oh so much Adam, and I know you fellas are omnivorous. Just please hold on and wait until help comes. Where’s Rainbow?”

“Wear is...?” He repeated it slowly. Applejack was a little annoyed then, but it faded realising he was trying to understand in the least. For some reason, this beast was relenting to her efforts to bond.

“Where is Rainbow Dash? My blue friend.”

“Friend goes to get more help. She come morning, scared I go to darkness. She say her friend give trouble, she does not yet bell...I've?”

“Believe?”

“Means...”

“To trust in something a pony says.”

“Trust to say... Yes, she does not...believe...I am here.”

“You remember that?”

“Leave note, I try read.” He passed her a paper the bladed hand was clutching, stained wit the morning activities. It was clear he tried with great effort to understand the contents of that note. “Still sleep much when she come, still on blue. Master Rainbows kick me to wake and try talk... Master Rainbows not...wait as you.”

“That's her alright. It looks like she needed to prove you were here so we could get some help. She took something to show her friend.”

“She take something to show?”

“What did she...” Applejack realised it just now, he was completely nude. Barren of hair, that body was extremely strange to look at. She had to turn away quickly to stop her eyes from looking any lower, already a peek stolen and quickly learned they did not hide as well as Stallions. There was a lot of muscle on him. “Why...wh...ahem... She took your cloth...”

“Say my cloth has old belt. It show my here.”

“I think I understand.”

“You are cold?”

“I'm alright, morning freshness.” She took a deep breath to greet the scents of the new day, smiling to him as best she could with those horrible teeth smiling back. They were attached to his cheek, not the jaw. “Just taking it in. Try.”

“Take.”

“Take a deep breath like this.” She repeated the action and circled her hoof in example. “Try.”

He closed his eye and breathed a little, she winced as he did seeing the metallic fittings stretch the skin they clung to. It was remarkable how many repairs had been done to the body. Applejack was not the kind of pony that dabbled in the science stuff outside of the farm life, but it was amazing to see the harmony of the mechanism as it twisted to accommodate the stretch. As sickening as it was, it had been crafted well. He finished with a wince, the sounds of the sharpened teeth grinding no longer as intimidating.

“That's better?”

“Cold.”

“Yeah.” As she enjoyed the morning air, a waft reached that shattered to calm. It was strong enough to merit attention. Looking to Adam, the smell became obvious. “You are in pain...” she said with realisation to the perceived extent of it.

“Pain. I am alive.”

“We got to fix that. Make it better.”

“Pain does not go.”

“Once we get you cleaned up, we will worry about that.”

“Clean is?”

“Bad smell gone.”

He did not answer, staring out at the edge of the road. “Sorry I smell. I try wash but many critters in river.”

She smiled with a little pride at him having used a new word, even imitating her accent as he said it. “I’m not complaining big guy.” He shifted slightly further away, the scent was not as difficult to bear as the wind shifted.

“It’s really cold this morning. Would you like me to sit closer?” There was no answer. “No understand, huh?” He nodded, wincing as a piece of the metal caught on the skin. Applejack was trying to keep calm, but every time he moved she became more and more shocked. It was torture, literal torture what they did. She could not ignore the fact that it kept him alive tough, and she remembered what the mare said about it.

“Adam?”

His head rose, she could not make anything out from the side she looked at. Breeze or no, he was bunching up, and getting colder. Applejack carefully shimmied closer to touch against to his intact side, and leaned in. It was cold, incredibly hard. There was a great deal of metal plating all along the arm. It reminded her of the pony gladiators in stories, but there were no straps holding them on, and she did not want to know how they were secured.

He writhed as she touched him, but did not move as her weight sunk against the side. The proximity became obvious and the warmth that emanated blanketed him must have been a welcome against the cold air.

“Thank...you, Master.” Apparently the minor cleansing of the blue smoke did a lot to relieve his delirium. That and what he ate a few minutes ago. A long time passed in the twittering of birds before he spoke again, the growl drowning out the ambience.

“You take me away, I can breath.”

“It was my pleasure.”

“What you do to me today?”

“We will go to my home, and try to fix you up. Make better. Then I don’t know. We must stop this, that one I’m sure of.”

“Stop...”

“No more Brawlers go to darkness.”

He ermined silent, not daring to move a muscle. Applejack imagined he remained still so as not to hurt her with the plating. “Stop brawling...”

“Later. Right now we have to wait a while until Rainbow gets back with her friend.”

“Friend help?”

“Yeah.”

“Friend...what is?”

“Again another saddening thing to hear.”

“I am your friend.”

She shuddered and tensed her muscles as the plated arm slowly touched her shoulder. If anything, it was remarkably gentle in the minor massaging motions. This tenderness was unthinkable from looking at him. It was strange this creature was displaying as much intelligence as it did. He was still a shell though, a shell of what Applejack once knew. Broken however was not a word that could be used to describe him, not in any sense.

This now had taught Applejack one thing or another; these things were intelligent enough to understand trust, or they were intelligent enough to plan. His next words however confirmed to her what she knew of the old champion, and she knew there was time now for Rainbow to get help.

“Friend... Master applejack is my friend...” He sighed then, long and heavy in an almost release of tension. “I like my friend.”