Worlds Entwined

Chapters

How a Journey Begins
Migration
The Strangers We Meet

How a Journey Begins

Flurries of chilling snow drifted around two prone, equine shapes. The wind howled its vicious music, covering the land in a cloud of grey. A tiny whimper escaped the butter yellow pegasus, "A-a-applejack! D-don't let it g-g-get m-me!"

Applejack hugged her friend tight, "Don't fret sugarcube, I ain't gonna leave ya!" Both their hooves clasped the other, holding as much heat between them as they could. "Fluttershy? I need ya to help me scoop out a shelter... this cold air is deadly!"

Fluttershy nodded her shaking head and dug into the snow. With her teeth chattering, Fluttershy tried her best to help Applejack. But her slight frame quickly showed signs of weakening. An orange foreleg wrapped around her shoulders,

"Just a little bit more, sugarcube... a little bit more..."

A few hours earlier...

Fluttershy flew as fast as she could muster, her wings whirring through the grey skies. In her arms was a tiny egg, covered in cracks and cracking faster then Fluttershy could imagine. "Wait, not yet, not yet!" She said with panicked breath.

Everypony looked up as a shadow sped past them, each of them doing a double take as they spied a familiar figure.

"Woah! I didn't know Fluttershy could fly like that!" cried a small orange filly.

"Looks like even a scaredy-mare like Fluttershy can fly better then you, Scoots!"

"Hey! My wings are just... growing! I don't see YOU flying, Applebloom!" Fluttershy ignored the two fillies now engaged in a brawl and continued on. A chirping sound escaped the egg, whatever was hatching was obviously hungry.

"Hey Fluttershy!"

"R-raindow Dash? Sorry, I don't have time to talk right now!" Fluttershy replied.

"Oh ok, need any help?" asked Rainbow Dash, trying with some effort to catch up to Fluttershy.

"Oh no, I'm sure I'll be o-" The baby blue egg shattered into pieces. A tiny, feathery lizard broke out and fell towards the ground. Fluttershy looked down and let out a scream. Rainbow Dash rocketed downwards without even thinking, her front hooves closing around the baby lizard.

"I got him! I got him!" Rainbow Dash soared back up to where Fluttershy was. The lizard simply blinked, unaware of his near-death experience.

Fluttershy breathed a sigh of relief and hugged Rainbow Dash. "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

Rainbow Dash gave a sheepish smile and shrugged, "It was nothing really... What kind of critter is that anyway?"

Fluttershy gently stroked the lizard. "Oh, this little guy is a baby wyvern! I was on my way to find his mommy, but he decided to hatch early."

"Cool, well I'd stick around but Wonderbolt practice is super important. Spitfire isn't known for her patience." Rainbow Dash waved goodbye and gently patted the wyvern. With a loud whoosh she took off towards the sun, a long funnel of wind following in Dash's wake.

Fluttershy placed the baby wyvern in her saddlebag and headed out towards the center of town. Alright so, his mother is probably at her nesting ground... so I might have to travel all the way north! Oh, I hope it isn't too cold. A loud commotion down below snapped her from her thoughts.

"Ah ain't wearing any silly fur clothes, Rare'! We farmer ponies can handle a lil' cold!" shouted the stubborn farmer mare, Applejack.

"Yes, yes... but it's a fashion statement! I don't want my friends stuck with those dreadful farmer duds. Besides, it goes with your eyes!" replied Rarity, trying her best to wrap a scarf around her friends neck.

Fluttershy fluttered to the ground and tried to get between them, "Girls-"

"Get away from me!"

Applejack ran around like a mad pony, trying her best to avoid Rarity's attempt to throw clothes over her.

"Your hair could do with some extensions too!" Rarity glared and charged forward, missing the farmer by mere inches.

"Girls..." Fluttershy tried to yell over them but was interrupted once again.

"Ah won't warn ya again, Rare'!"

"But darling, you simply must wear something of mine!"

Fluttershy took in a deep breath and shouted as loud as she could, "GIRLS!"

Rarity and Applejack skidded to a stop. They both crashed into one another in a tangled mess of limbs. "This is your fault..." said Rarity with a huff.

"Excuse me? You were the one chasing me! Ah ain't the one tryin' ta shove clothes on their friends!" Applejack gave Rarity a scolding look.

"Umm girls? Please stop fighting... I need to ask something." Fluttershy said quietly.

"Oh, I'm so sorry darling, I tend to be a bit-"

"Pompous?"

Rarity cleared her throat and continued, "As I was saying, I get a little bit shall we say-"

"Pretentious?"

"Applejack!"

Applejack looked at Fluttershy with wide eyes. "I didn't... Alright fine, I can't lie well anyway. What is it ya wanted sugarcube?"

"Yes Fluttershy, what is it you needed?"

"Well I umm was on my way to the Frozen North for the wyvern migration and I- I'm a little scared of the ice. So I'd like it if you girls could come with me. I-if that's ok with you..." Fluttershy mumbled the last sentence and nervously dug grooves in the cold dirt.

"Ah course I'll go sugarcube! Anythin' for a friend!" Applejack yanked her stetson from Rarity's grasp and placed it back onto her head.

Rarity sighed and gave her friends a thin smile. "I'd love to Fluttershy, but I have a massive order due tomorrow evening! I simply cannot delay. You know how these fancy ponies are, they aren't good at patience..."

"That's perfectly fine, Rare' Ah'm sure me and Fluttershy can handle a bit o' snow!" said Applejack smugly.

"Fluttershy and I! Really Applejack? A business mare should know proper grammar. Enjoy your migration ladies!" Rarity turned her back and headed back to her store. Applejack stuck her tongue out at Rarity's back. Applejack Innocently began whistling when she turned back suddenly.

"And here, take one of my scarves, it gets awfully cold up there!" Rarity threw both of them a thick woolen scarf, much to Applejack's apparent distaste.

Fluttershy smiled sweetly, "Thank you Rarity, it's very... pink!"

"Cya, Rare'!"

The baby wyvern peeked out from the saddlebag and squeaked, his stomach growling in agreement. Without a word Fluttershy lifted him into her arms and pulled out a rotten banana. Hungrily the babies jaws snapped up the fruit, several trails of pulped banana dribbled down his chin. "Oops!" Fluttershy wiped the mush up with her hoof.

"Ah thought wyverns were carnivores?" asked Applejack.

"Oh no, they are omnivores. Especially for rotten fruit..." Fluttershy placed him back down, pulled out a large map and pointed a hoof at the large empty area to the north. "One of Twilight's books hinted that the last wyvern migration was here, somewhere east of the Crystal Empire."

"Ah haven't been that way since Twi went to that freaky-deaky, human, dimens-a-whatsit!" Applejack peered at the map and shrugged. "Any other clues?"

"None."

"Alright, let's grab us a train ride!"

Luckily for the would be adventurers, the train conductor had forgotten his afternoon shift. He sat in the caboose calmly reading the Hoofington Print and taking large bites of his sandwich. He looked up and noticed the two mares trotting down the rather empty station. With a grumble he folded his newspaper and pulled his cap down. He waved a brown, coal-dusted hoof and called out,

"I take it you two mares are looking for a ride?"

"Last time ah checked this IS a train station..." Applejack replied, rolling her eyes slightly.

"Hoowee! It's already 4 pm? My boss is gonna kill me! Hurry up and get in! I'm super late as it is!" With a sudden surge of panic the conductor began to fervently work the engine. The train whistle called out its last minute warning as the train rumbled into life.

Applejack and Fluttershy quickly boarded the train, narrowly avoiding an elderly rider. "Oh I'm s-so sorry m-ma'am! It's just super important we get this train-"

The apricot mare smiled and handed Fluttershy a candy. "Don't worry your pretty little head kiddo, I was young once too you know!"

Fluttershy giggled and accepted the candy. "Th-thanks!"

Applejack sat down on one of the seats and placed her bag beside her. "Ah'm gonna catch a few hours of sleep sugarcube, wake me up when we get there." She pulled her stetson over her face and relaxed against the window. Fluttershy sat beside her, her eyes drifting to the country scenery zooming past as the train reached its top speed.

The hills and mountains of Equestria glowed orange in the sunset that peered through dark clouds. The sun was like a flower in bloom, the light its petals. Without even noticing Fluttershy began to drift into a pleasant dream, her eyes fluttered shut on the world.

Fluttershy awoke several hours later, the beautiful sunset replaced by twinkling stars and indigo sky. The train whistled loudly, it seemed they weren't far from the Crystal Empire. Fluttershy turned to wake Applejack and was surprised to see an empty seat. She looked around for Applejack but couldn't see her in the carriage. "Where is she? I can't believe I slept so long!" A large yawn followed Fluttershy's words.

Slowly she stood up and wandered over to the carriage door. Fluttershy wiped away the frost residue but couldn't see through the blurred glass. A faint outline of brown wandered around the next carriage, completely oblivious to the pony staring at them. Fluttershy wrapped her pink scarf around her neck and stepped through the cold. The icy air felt almost painful against her wings. "Brrrr...."

The door opened on to a rather surprised Applejack. "Fluttershy? Ah'm sorry, guess ah kinda forgot about ya!"

"Oh umm don't worry, it's fine..." Fluttershy blushed slightly. "Are we almost there?"

"Well the nice conductor fella' mentioned we were coming up on the edge of Equestria. Think it's only a few more miles." Applejack shivered from the chill and chuckled. "Why are we chatting out 'ere in the cold? Come on, we don't want colds before we even get there!"

Before too long the giant purple crystals of the Crystal Empires outskirts loomed in the distance. The sleet that coated the train suddenly stopped as they passed through the magic barrier. The moon glistened in the sky, its silvery rays covering the land. Fluttershy watched as the city came alive with lights, her voice catching at its sheer beauty. "Wow, and I thought Canterlot looked gorgeous at night!" A tiny reptilian head poked out of her saddlebag and whistled in what one could consider agreement. "Oh, good evening to you as well!"

The train called out as it drifted to a stop. The steam whooshed out around the station, the engine rumbling to a complete stop. "End of the line, Crystal Empire! Please remember all luggage and have a good night!"

"Alrighty then, let's go!" Applejack held the door open for Fluttershy, who tripped slightly onto the platform and gave an embarrassed smile.

"Sorry!"

"It's fine, let's get something to eat! Ah'm simply starving!" Applejack glanced at the baby wyvern who was busily licking his lips. "Seems the lil' guy is too!"

Fluttershy followed Applejack through the busy streets, lagging behind as she marveled at the illuminated crystals. A large hotel stood beneath the palace's shadow, the smell of warm food drifted towards the duo.

"Mmmhhmm, that's some prime farmer food if ah've ever smelt it!"

Fluttershy and Applejack enjoyed the hospitality of the crystal ponies and went up to their rooms with filled bellies. Fluttershy eagerly dreamed about the migration, the little wyvern nestled between her hooves. Applejack was still beat from her early morning duties and simply collapsed, snoring loudly.

The early morning sun streamed through the open window, blinding Fluttershy. She blinked once, twice, three times until she could finally make out a pony figure. "Applejack?"

A silver mare jumped up and turned around with a fluster. "Oh dear! I'm so sorry I awoke you ma'am! You were so quiet I didn't even notice you!"

"I-it's fine, I need to feed this wyvern and stuff anyway..." Fluttershy hid behind her curtain of hair, patiently waiting for the maid to leave.

The baby stretched his tiny wings and yawned. He nuzzled against Fluttershy's outstretched hoof, mewling in hunger. Fluttershy pulled out a large apple from her bag, without even waiting the wyvern grabbed it and greedily consumed it.

"Hey! Leave some more for later, mister!" Fluttershy tried to pull the apple from his teeth but was met with a cute growl. She shrugged her shoulders and released it, much to his liking.

Fluttershy plopped him back in the bag and wandered over to Applejack's room. Tentatively she tapped on the closed door, a snort was the only reply she received. Sighing, Fluttershy opened the door and stepped through. A large bed sat almost completely bare, the covers lying half on Applejack's leg and the rest bundled on the floor. Applejack had one hoof awkwardly placed above her head, the other dangling off the bed.

Fluttershy shook Applejack gently, the orange mare sprung awake suddenly. Her leg flew out and bucked Fluttershy in the face. "Wh-wha? Ah'm sorry ah slept in Big Ma- Oh righ' I'm not at the farm." Applejack stood up and looked around. She winced once she saw Fluttershy lying on the ground, her eyes spinning in place.

"Oh my, sorry 'bout that, 'Shy! Here let me help you up!"

Fluttershy took her hoof and stood up, shaking her head slightly. "Don't worry, I'm perfectly- woah! -fine."

Breakfast was relatively devoid of anything exciting, safe for a grumpy wyvern chewing the decor. With tummies all ready for a big day they stepped out into the morning sun. Fluttershy unfurled the map and studied it for several minutes. "Umm ok, so I think we need to go here!" She said, pointing to the northeast, "Then take a left at this cave and it should be right around there!" Fluttershy circled the edge of the map with her hoof.

"Well it sure is a beautiful day to take a long walk..."

Applejack quickly ate her own words once they reached the northeast side of the city, the weather beyond the magic dome was horrible. It was like a miniature blizzard, ice drifted through the air and wind blew every which way. A dull howl echoed through the dome, a small taste of what awaited.

Fluttershy looked out and sighed. "Maybe we should wait for the weather to settle before we go..."

Applejack scoffed and puffed out her chest. "It's only a bit of snow Fluttershy. It's probably nice and pleasant where we're goin'!"

"I-i don't know, it looks-"

"Relax, we'll stick together, make our way through and watch the little guy fly with his buddies!" Applejack wrapped a hoof around Fluttershy and grinned, "Everything will be a-ok!"

Nervously Fluttershy watched the ice freeze against the barrier and whimpered. "Oh dear..."

Migration

Applejack calmly stepped through the barrier and into the furious snowstorm. The rushing wind almost knocked her flying but she managed to keep her balance. Applejack grabbed onto Fluttershy's hoof and pulled her through. Fluttershy shut her eyes on the icy world before realizing that she was sheltered by a long cloak. Tentatively Fluttershy opened her eyes and watched the snowflakes fly past her nose.

"See it's fine, just stay under the cloak for now. Hopefully better weather will be greeting us!" cried Applejack, her voice barely noticeable beneath the howling wind.

Fluttershy nodded slightly and pulled the cloak down over her face. Slowly they trekked through the snow, their hooves leaving prints behind. The city disappeared behind a curtain of white, not even the glow of the barrier could be seen. Fluttershy noticed her saddlebag had begun shaking, a tiny shivering head poked its head into the cold.

"It's a little chilly for you, stay inside where it's nice and toasty!" Fluttershy knotted a tiny scarf around the baby wyverns neck and closed the bag back up.

Applejack continued on towards what she hoped was the northeast. The Frozen North was a little easier to navigate without a moving shadow chasing her down the whole way. Applejack looked back at Fluttershy and gave her a simple grin. One thing she didn't want was a panicking Fluttershy. It was surprising that Fluttershy was seemingly alright with trudging through snow and ice. Suppose, if it's for an animal... she'll do it no matter what.

For what felt like hours they trundled across the empty landscape of white, not entirely sure of where they were headed. Applejack swore she saw a mountain but it turned out to be just a darkened crystal. A possible leftover from the Empire. At last the wind began to calm, a few snowflakes falling here and there in the now still air.

"Phew! Ah think that miniature blizzard has finally cleared up!" Applejack peered into the distance and saw a glimpse of green hidden behind the white wall. "And would ya look at that! Some kinda grove over through that glacier."

Fluttershy followed Applejack's outstretched hoof and squinted to see slightly clearer. Sure enough between two giant pieces of glacier was a land of green. "Is that..." Fluttershy lifted the wyvern from her bag and held him up. "Is that your home, buddy?" The wyvern chirped excitedly and sniffed the air. A low growl echoed from the glacier. "I think we've found the migration Applejack."

"He sure seems to think so. Come on, let's check it out!"

Together they stepped through the icy gate and into a small slice of paradise. The large grove was an odd contrast to the barren land of snow surrounding it. Trees as tall as Canterlot's castle towered above, their leaves a dark evergreen. Fluttershy stared up in wonder as birds of brown and silvery-grey fluttered through the branches. "I've never seen those before, I wonder what they could be!"

"Wait, you've never seen them? Then we must be the first ponies in ages to have been here." "Applejack laughed heartily as the baby wyvern jumped from Fluttershy's grasp and soared high up into a nearby tree. "Guess he likes it too."

Fluttershy watched him fly around, nipping at the tiny birds. A small feeling of sadness washed over her. Though she knew every animal had to one day leave her care, it still felt like losing them forever. Fluttershy blinked several times to refrain from tears. As if reading her emotions, the wyvern glided towards her and perched himself on her head. Fluttershy giggled as he tried to chew a large patch of pink hair.

"Awww, who's a good widdle wyvern? Yes, you are!"

"Errr, Ah don't mean to be a bother 'Shy but umm," Applejack gulped, hoof pointing at several shapes flying towards them rather quickly, "Ah think we're about to meet the parents!"

A earsplitting screech rang out from the lead wyvern, its wingspan was large enough to wrap around a pony twice over. A long neck ended in a beak-like snout full of needle-sharp teeth. its neck was covered in feathers that stood rigid in apparent fury.

Fluttershy looked up, her heart jumped to her throat once her eyes finally caught the sight of the adult wyvern's talons. "Eep! They don't l-look v-very h-happy!" Fluttershy covered her face with her hooves, quaking in fear.

Beside her the baby wyvern stared in wonder at his own kind. His golden eyes caught those of the adult, who cried out in song. Together the two creatures sung together. Whistles, squeaks and howling made up the beautiful chorus. The adult retracted its talons and gracefully landed beside the ponies.

Applejack stood in front of Fluttershy, protecting her from the adult wyvern. The great beast walked forward on its wings, close enough to smell the fear on the duo. It reared up, claws raised high. Applejack prepared herself as it... spoke?

"Pony? You. Baby. Care. For. Her?" The wyvern spoke the words harshly, unable to speak a full sentence.

"Me? No, it wasn't me who hatched hi-her." Applejack put a foreleg around Fluttershy and pulled her to her hooves. "This is the one, her name is Fluttershy."

Fluttershy pulled her hair away and looked up at the wyvern with wide eyes. "Umm, I-i'm the one who raised her. I wasn't even aware he was a she."

"I. Mother. You also. Mother. South Mother. Female. Feathers yellow. Eyes blue." The wyvern mother extended her neck, she sniffed Fluttershy several times before finally bowing down. "Accept gift. Take quill. Come with. Migration."

Fluttershy gently plucked a single feather and tied it into her hair. She smiled politely, humbled by what appeared to be a great honor. The other wyverns chattered away, staring at Fluttershy in awe.

"I'd love to see the migration! Would it be alright to bring my friend?" Fluttershy pointed to Applejack, who was busy staring at the wyvern's toothy grin.

"She comes. With mother."

Fluttershy and Applejack followed the wyvern flock across the forest, galloping every so often to catch up to their powerful wings. Fluttershy smelt the air. The pleasant scents of nature made her feel right at home.

"Ah, isn't it lovely, Applejack? The green trees towering above, the wild flowers blooming prettily." Fluttershy spun around, forelegs raised. She suddenly broke into a simple song, "Wonderful trees and the beauty of nature. Birds a' flying and the wyverns are a' singing!"

Applejack watched Fluttershy's display with a bemused smile. "Ah told ya the weather would treat us nice, sugarcube. It's also nice to see you so happy!"

"How can I not? I've never seen a wyvern migration before." Fluttershy continued on, humming quietly.

After several more feet they could make out the dull roar of water. A large chasm yawned open further down the nature-worn path. Attached to both sides was a bridge, currently being held up by thin, taut ropes.

"Can't forests ever not have rickety old bridges? Why not a nice stone bridge held up by pillars or something?" said Applejack jokingly.

"No need. Bridge. Carry you. We will." Said a large male wyvern, flexing his talons in preparation.

"Ah don't exactly like flying- Woah!" Applejack felt her stomach drop as she was yanked into the sky, "Ya could have warned me!"

A second wyvern plucked up Fluttershy gently, the ground moving further and further away. Both wyverns glided across the chasm's thermals. The river rushed by far below them. Finally they landed back on solid ground, eager to continue on.

The path faded into obscurity as they saw the carpet of leaves underhoof. A sea of brown and orange leading into what appeared to be a single, empty clearing. As Fluttershy trotted closer a strange shadow caught her eye. In the distance towered a single stone, it stood so tall it could easily pass as an odd-looking mountain. "What is that?" Fluttershy mumbled to herself.

The mother wyvern heard her quiet voice and replied, "That is. Stone of Seeking. We use. As home. Many wyvern live. Come see. Great feast."

"Sounds like some kinda magic do-hickey. Maybe it's like a big magnet?" Applejack wondered.

"Maybe, Twilight would probably know..."

Stepping into the clearing, the noise of hundreds of wyvern singing and chattering assaulted them. Wyvern of every size and color flew around the stone, from gigantic and black, to tiny and hot pink. Every known type of wyvern one could find in books of yore. Fluttershy was simply in awe, she never imagined how many types of wyvern there could be. All together for a single migration.

"I. Have name. It is. Shrike. You are welcome. Great Father will, return soon. Yes! Have fruit. Eat much!" Shrike flew up with her daughter, greeting a larger wyvern who screeched happily. Together the three embraced each other with their wings.

"Awww, isn't that just adorable Applejack?" Fluttershy had both hooves clasped to her cheeks, gushing over the charming family reunion.

"Hehe, You're so cute when you do that sugarcube. All happy smiles!" Applejack grinned, " Now, about that food!"

A booming call echoed through the forest, silencing every wyvern instantly. The silence was almost spooky as they froze in place, eyes scanning the sky. The duo gasped simultaneously as a large black shape erupted from a cloud. This was a wyvern unlike every other one here. From wingtip to wingtip he would easily be able to hug an Ursa Minor. Quills like black daggers adorned his mane. What shocked them most were the glowing silver eyes that glanced upon them,

"Skreee-yah! Outsiders! Leave this place. NOW!" A great voice roared in outrage. "As Great Father, I must protect my subjects."

Fluttershy quivered in fear at the loud, intimidating voice. On the verge of tears she covered her face beneath her hooves. Applejack grabbed her gently and gave her a friendly hug. "Let me handle the big 'un!"

Applejack put on a stern expression and stomped forward. "Listen up y'all! We were invited here by one 'o yours. If ya want us to leave, just ask. Instead of terrifying poor Fluttershy here!" Applejack gestured to Fluttershy. "Seriously, is that ah face of an enemy?"

The Great Father landed on the ground with a heavy thud and crawled forward. Face inches away from Applejack's. "Prove it, pony!"

"Great Father!" Shrike stared down her fearsome leader. "They are friends. The yellow one. Second Mother. To my daughter."

"Impossible, pony raising a wyvern egg? Unheard of." The Great Father snorted at the shaking pegasus before him. "I highly doubt it."

Fluttershy stood up suddenly, eyes full of passion. "Listen up mister! I raise plenty of animals at my cottage, and a wyvern whelp is no exception." Fluttershy whistled to the baby who responded in kind.

The Great Father's eyes widened in shock. "An outsider... a mother?" He pondered for several seconds before reaching a decision. "This is unorthodox, but I will allow it."

Murmurs passed from wyvern to wyvern, an outsider welcomed into the Migration was unheard of. "Welcome, please take my apology and feast among us. The others are not used to the Equestrian tongue, so have patience."

"Thank you!" Fluttershy nudged Applejack softy who muttered a simple thanks.

Applejack watched as a large pile of fruit and nuts was heaped into a large hole. Her mouth watered at the fresh smell of apples, berries and every other fruit she could think of. A second hole was filled to the brim with raw meat, both ponies tried not to gag on the putrid smell. "Urggh! How do you ever stomach that stench Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy laughed through a pinched nose. "My animals are strictly veggie. Wouldn't want any... nasty accidents."

"Ah suppose that makes sense." Applejack shoved her hoof into the pile and pulled out a bright red fruit. "Apples, can't get enough!" She chewed for awhile, savoring the taste. Applejack pulled it from her mouth, staring at it as if it was mutated. "Definitely not an apple..."

Fluttershy scooped up several wild berries and popped a bright green gooseberry into her mouth. "Mmm yummy!"

The feast continued throughout the afternoon. Several wyverns politely offered them some meat that was quickly turned down. Everybody collapsed onto the ground at last, stomachs full to bursting.

The setting sun pushed through the grey clouds and lit up the stone. Strange runes appeared across its surface where the light shone. Fluttershy and Applejack were mesmerized by a sudden gold light seemingly bursting from within the stone.

"What in tarnation?"

"Oh, my!"

The Great Father rose up into the air, wings outstretched across the open field. "Scree-anh'thu-so!" He spoke a strange incantation that was repeated by the other wyvern, a long chant began. Every wyvern swayed from side to side, wingtips touching in a sort of hug. The golden light embraced every last wyvern and pony within reach. Fluttershy pointed with mouth open at Applejack's now golden cutie-mark.

"Wah! Ah'm glowing?" Applejack noticed the three golden butterflies on Fluttershy's flank. "You're glowing too!"

Fluttershy felt a tingling warmth within her heart as the sun's light faded from view. She looked upwards and caught her breath. Every wyvern was now covered in neon patterns that glowed through their skin. The baby that Fluttershy had raised was glowing violet, happily playing with the other whelps. The adult wyverns began to pair off together, dancing majestically around each other. The bright colors bursting forth from them, weaved around like fireflies in the fading light.

The Great Father looked down at the ponies with a silvery gaze. "You have been witness to our Migration ritual. This stone has magical properties that react to our bodies. It is our gift from the Sun Mistress. It allows us to see in the dark months of winter, and to swallow sun-fire to keep us warm."

Fluttershy couldn't resist staring at this ethereal beauty. "It's amazing! I thought nopony but unicorns could use magic."

"We do not use it with concentration, but naturally like your cloud-walking or your friends physical strength." The Great Father handed Fluttershy a small topaz. "None but you and your friend can know our secret, this will show everything you wish to know. Tomorrow we will be gone, this valley will be snow and a cavern will arc overhead."

"I-is this a dream?" questioned Fluttershy.

"Perhaps to a pony it will feel like one... Goodbye Fluttershy! You raised my grandchild well..."

The Great Fathers voice faded away as both ponies fell asleep. Around them the world shifted and morphed, the valley becoming nothing but a memory, leaving behind a cavern of ice. The howling wind once more sung its wordless song. The topaz clutched within Fluttershy's hoof shone brightly before it to, faded. Fluttershy dreamed of golden butterflies and empty fields of snow. A figure from the edge of the cave flew off into the storm, shocked by the sudden appearance of strangers.

Applejack awoke in the chill morning air, the valley was no longer surrounding them. Instead a massive cavern within the glacier protected them from the howling winds that had returned overnight. For a few seconds she wondered if it had even happened but noticed the feather still hanging from Fluttershy's mane.

Amazing, the magic of the stone must create some kinda paradise around it. Ah wonder what Twilight would think of all this? Applejack wondered to herself.

Fluttershy shifted in her sleep, her eyes fluttered open onto Applejack's face. Fluttershy jumped up in fright but quickly relaxed once she realized it was a dream.

"Oh phew, it was just a nightmare, I thought you were some creepy stranger hidden in shadow!" Fluttershy said with a nervous laugh.

"Nah! Just me, Applejack." Applejack grinned "And before you ask, the wyvern migration was definitely not a dream."

"Oh thank Celestia, I don't think I'd ever want to forget that. Nature is simply beautiful sometimes!" Fluttershy squeezed the gemstone in her hoof, the golden light shining slightly.

"Well I suppose we should head back home now, I bet Big Mac's probably waiting for me." Applejack helped Fluttershy to her hooves.

Fluttershy thought of Angel and groaned, "And Angel is probably gonna be mad at me..."

"Mind if I take the map?" Applejack asked

"Sure, I'm not that great with direction anyway." Fluttershy unfurled the map and handed it over.

Applejack looked at it for awhile, trying to determine exactly where the migration had been. Unfortunately she couldn't make heads or tails of the map and simply shrugged. "Ah'm sure we'll find our way back. I've got a knack for this sorta thing."

Applejack lead the way out of the cave, the snow was so high that her head barely reached over it. She began to dig a path through the snow. Fluttershy trailed behind, trying to see out over the wall of white. The morning whittled away slowly, the sky was so dark you could almost mistake it for night.

"I honestly can't see anything, between the light and all this snow everything looks the same!" Applejack punched the snow in irritation.

"M-maybe we're lost?" Fluttershy said with a worried expression.

"Its only been an hour or so, give it a bit longer before we start getting worried."

"I-i'll try!" Fluttershy smiled faintly, already feeling nervous.

Applejack finally broke through the snow bank, collapsing onto the hoof height snow. She kissed the cold ground and stood up. In the distance she could see the familiar crystal from yesterday. Applejack felt her spirits lift, now aware of where they were headed. Ah, finally! We should be back in no time!

Together they trotted past the crystal and headed southwest, back towards the Crystal Empire. Happily Applejack began humming, she knew her skills at direction would pay off. Of course for a long time they still had not got any closer. Then everything promptly decided to go wrong...

A blizzard rapidly picked up around them, way worse then yesterday. The wind threw icicles and snow around like a miniature tornado. Desperately Applejack began to gallop through the snow, pulling Fluttershy along behind her. Miles and miles they ran, trying to get ahead of the storm. The light from earlier was now non-existent, the world was nothing but black and white. A surge of wind blew up from behind them, launching them through the sky and into a pile of hard snow.

"Ow! This can't be happening! I don't think we can make it back in this... We'll just get more lost!" Applejack dragged Fluttershy out of a pony-shaped depression.

Fluttershy was frozen solid in fear, her eyes were so wide it's any wonder they weren't popping out. Applejack figured it was just the blizzard until she looked into the distance. Several ghostlike forms circled around them, at first Applejack thought they were windigoes like in the stories. But on close inspection they were pony-like creatures of solid ice. They stood still and silent as statues, watching, waiting.

Fluttershy's voice was nothing but a tiny whimper. "A-a-applejack! D-don't let it g-g-get m-me!"

Applejack hugged her close and whispered, "Don't fret sugarcube, I ain't gonna leave ya!" Applejack grabbed her hoof and let the topaz warm them ever so slightly. "Fluttershy? I need ya to help me scoop out a shelter... this cold air is deadly! Those creatures won't get you, I promise."

"Just a little bit more, sugarcube... a little bit more..." Applejack grabbed both her hooves in hers and together they dug a shelter. Together they hunkered down, pressing against each in an effort to keep in the heat.

"Nothing will happen, you can count on that!" Applejack turned and shouted into the wind, "Ya hear me? Ah won't let ya take her!"

And then, everything went black.

The Strangers We Meet

A powerful stench assaulted Applejack's senses, snapping her from unconsciousness. She jumped up, ready to fight whoever woke her up. A cloaked figure stepped forward into the firelight that enveloped the room. A hooked beak and stern gaze remained hidden behind a dark hood. The figure held up two talons devoid of any weapon, save the dulled blades upon his claws.

"Do not be alarmed young mare, I saved you from those fiendish Ice Golems. I could not stand by once the overwhelming cold knocked you out."

"W-who are you? Where's Fluttershy?" Applejack stared at the stranger uneasily.

"I am Klaus Ravenwing, a nomad of the griffon kingdom." Klaus pulled back his hood, revealing a pattern of golden feathers dulled with age. His eyes were a deep emerald, watching with the stern gaze of a raptor. He raised a talon and pointed to the far wall. "Your friend is still unconscious, unfortunately she was struck by the golem's icy grip. But I assure you this 'Fluttershy' shall make a swift recovery."

Applejack ran forward and knelt beside Fluttershy, her foreleg gently grabbed hold of her limp body. "Fluttershy! Fluttershy, can ya hear me? Can ya hear me, sugarcube?"

Fluttershy shifted slightly, her mane falling over her face. One eye fluttered open and looked at Applejack groggily. "A...pple...ja..ck?" Fluttershy managed to mumble before she slipped back into unconsciousness.

"I'ma let you get some more rest, sugarcube, just hang in there ok?" Applejack rubbed Fluttershy's shoulder and wandered back to the fire.

Klaus waited patiently for her to ask him something, not wanting to be rude. "So... do ya think she'll be fine? Ah know what ya said but ah'm a little worried." Applejack constantly turned towards Fluttershy, instinctively checking up on her.

"She was quite lucky actually, once someone has caught the gaze of an Ice Golem it is quite difficult to escape. It is a form of paralysis you see, not unlike like that of a basilisk or cockatrice," Klaus pointed his head toward Fluttershy, "It does however come with one nasty little side effect..."

"That bein'?" asked Applejack, narrowing her eyes ever so slightly.

"The Freeze, a condition that if the stare is not broken, eventually results in transformation. Seeing as she was caught for at least thirty seconds, it will be momentary. A passing phase really-" Klaus was silenced as Fluttershy awoke and let out a bloodcurdling scream.

"AAAAHHHHH! W-w-why am I all i-i-icy?" Fluttershy had both hooves clasped to her face, feeling the cold, smooth surface. "Am I t-turning into a s-s-snowmare?"

"Relax, it will pass!" stated Klaus simply.

"Relax? How can she relax when her bodies a' frozen? At least show some pity to the poor mare!" Applejack sat beside Fluttershy, actively trying to sooth her frightened shivering. "Klaus, get Fluttershy her bag. Ah think she brought a blanket."

Klaus simply stood still, unsure of what he should do. It wasn't everyday he saw anyone, let alone two young ponies.

"Don't just stand there like a dumbstruck fool! Help me out 'ere!" Applejack shouted.

He shook himself from his daze and slid over to Fluttershy's saddlebag, Klaus stared at in with interest. Amazing! A bag that seals itself! Technology sure has come a long way. He felt around within it until his talon caught on wool. "I found it!"

Klaus held the bag for a second, feeling the odd fabric that he couldn't quite place. With a shrug he threw it into the corner and returned to Applejack, bright red blanket flapping along beside him.

Applejack raised her eyebrow slightly and took the blanket. "Umm thanks... I don't know how ya tore a hole in it but ah won't judge, much."

"The fabric of your friends bag, what is it?" Klaus asked curiously.

"Ah don't know probably burlap or something... Why? Ya looking to buy a bag?" Applejack said sarcastically.

"I have never seen such a wonderful invention! Much better then this hide sack I got. It seems meat doesn't do well in a wet sack." Klaus plopped a large sack in front of them. A horrible stench wafted from the bag.

Fluttershy's eyes went wide then rolled back as she fainted. Applejack caught her limp body and lay her back down. "Gosh darn it! Why'd ya have to go an' do that? 'Shy's a bit sensitive to meat, being all animal lover an' all."

"Ponies don't eat meat?" Klaus wondered aloud.

Applejack simply sighed. "Ya know what? Ah think it's time I went ta bed!"

Klaus looked out at the grey clouds. "But it's still early."

"Is that so? Well, goodnight!" Applejack rolled over beside Fluttershy. She began snoring loudly, faking it as best she could. Ah hope we ain't gonna get stuck with this weirdo!

Applejack awoke to a rather peculiar sight, Klaus sat on his haunches with wings extended out as if meditating. Blissfully unaware of the waking mare, he began humming softly.

Applejack raised an eyebrow. "Errr, what exactly ARE ya doin' there?"

"What? Who? Visitors?" Klaus seemed confused for a minute before he opened his eyes, grinning awkwardly. "Ah right, I completely forgot you two were even here. Speaking of which, do you like jerky?"

"Ah ain't eating any kind o' meat! Do I look like a griffon?" Applejack said rudely, still too groggy for anyponies weirdness.

Klaus pushed a small plate towards Applejack, small round pellets piled upon it. "Nuts, ponies eat nuts right?"

Applejack looked at the plate of nuts with a grimace. "Not particularly, but at least it isn't dried meat..."

Fluttershy yawned loudly and rolled onto her back. "Yaaawwwn! Oh my, did I sleep in, Angel?" She shook her head slightly. "Oh right, I'm not in Ponyville... D-do I smell meat?" Fluttershy's faced turned pale green as she gagged on the smell.

"Hehe, Ah know how ya feel sugarcube." Applejack chuckled, "Here, I know it isn't much but-"

"Oh, it's quite alright. I'm not really that hungry anyway."

"Suit yourself." She said, noisily crunching on nuts. Applejack's face fell as she slowly savored the flavor. "On second thought... I'll errr, be right back." The sounds of dry retching echoed through the cave.

After cleaning her mouth with a clump of snow, Applejack sat down next to Fluttershy and nudged her lightly. "Flutters, ah know this might seem a bit mean but ah... Ah think it would be best to leave bird-boy to his own devices. Doesn't really seem to be... all there." Applejack nodded her head towards Klaus, who was spread-eagled with his talons pointing up. Strange snuffling grunts were the only sounds he made.

"I-i don't know. Are you sure? I wouldn't want to upset him or anything." Fluttershy gave Klaus a thoughtful glance. "Maybe we could leave a note or something?"

"Alright Flutters, if it means that much." Applejack pulled a piece of paper from her saddlebag and hastily sprawled a message.

Dear Klaus,

Thanks for pulling us from the snow, and for helping Fluttershy. When you read this we will be gone, hopefully already in the Crystal Empire.

Cya round, AJ & Fluttershy.

"Happy now?"

Fluttershy nodded happily, "Much."

Applejack lead the way out of the cave, back out into the frosty air. She licked her hoof and raised it into the sky. "The winds goin' north so we probably wanna go south. Somewhere that 'a way!"

They wandered a short while, stopping every so often to gain their bearings. A few more minutes passed with no discernible signs of life nor landmark. Fluttershy thought she spotted a familiar rock jutting from the snow but shook her head. AJ knows where she's going I'm sure. Probably just a pang of guilt...

Applejack mumbled to herself, trying to work out exactly how long it should have taken them. By now they should've seen the spires of crystal and the large glowing dome. Applejack stopped suddenly, Fluttershy running directly into her flank. "Ow!"

"Sorry, sugarcube. But ah can't for the life of me work out why we ain't there yet!" Applejack let out a frustrated growl and stomped the snow.

Fluttershy thought for a second and glanced back. She let out a slight giggle, refusing to meet Applejack's eyes. "Umm Applejack?"

"But if... the wind... Gah! All this stupid snow!" Applejack sighed.

"Excuse me, Applejack? I think I know the problem." Fluttershy couldn't help but snicker.

"...Yes Fluttershy?" said Applejack through gritted teeth.

"Well umm... we've been wandering in circles all this time."

"What? Don't be silly! I definitely ain't that silly!" Applejack said defensively, her eyes narrowed slightly.

Fluttershy snuffed her hoof in the snow and gently turned Applejack around, pointing behind her. "Perhaps we need to ask for directions?"

"Ah have no idea what you mean, these hoof-prints only lead straight!" Applejack wandered a few steps and face-hoofed. "Around the cavern we just left..."

Fluttershy giggled, patting Applejack on the shoulders. "It could happen to anypony really. I mean Dashie can't even remember where Cloudsdale is half the time. And she was born there!"

"Thanks 'Shy! After all it can't get any worse right?" Applejack said with a smirk.

From behind them came the clatter of metal, followed by several pained squawks. Klaus collapsed in the snow, his voice muffled through the white. His beak poked out, followed by a single eye. "Hey umm girls... you kinda forgot to invite me!"

"Goshdarn it! Weren't you asleep? And did you not read the letter?" Applejack gave him an annoyed look. Ah should not have said those words...

Klaus pulled himself out of the snow. Several snowflakes fell out of his bronze armor as he shook himself. "Well you see... I thought it was for the fire so... I may have burnt it." Klaus winced at Applejack's furious expression. "Also I'm a light sleeper."

"Ah could hit ya right now, but I'm a nice pony." said Applejack with a fake smile.

"By the way, when you go walking it's usually a good idea to go forward. Circles... don't really get you to where you want." said Klaus with actual sincerity.

"Ah must... not... hit... others." Applejack clenched her hooves together.

"Also, would you like some jerky?" Klaus offered.

"Oh for the love 'o pete!" Applejack threw her forelegs up and sat down.

"Hooray! More for me then!" Klaus thoughtfully chewed a piece of red jerky.

"Please tell me you have a map? Ah don't want another reason to pluck out a feather or two..." Applejack gave him one of those looks, the ones that could stop somepony in their tracks. Klaus however seemed unfazed.

"Why would I need a map? I've got one of these don't I?" Klaus accidentally poked himself in the temple. "Ow!"

"Great! We are so doomed..." Applejack muttered.

"Oooh I know the way!" Klaus pointed to the west. "That wa- No, wait!" He pointed to the east. "The other way!" Klaus wandered to the east a few minutes and stopped. "Sorry! Actually it's back this way, yes indeed!" He said, turning back the way he came.

Applejack glanced over at Fluttershy who smiled sheepishly. Fluttershy simply shrugged, mouthing the words, 'Relax, I'm sure he knows the way!'

'I'm blaming you if we end up ten feet under snow.' Applejack mouthed back.

Klaus flew through the air, pointing out the path far below them. Through the snow they slogged, trying to keep Klaus within view. Applejack started to get impatient as the countryside around them failed to change.

"Klaus!" Applejack shouted, "When will we actually see the city? Ah swear this is taking way longer then the other day."

"In a few minutes, trust me!" Klaus called back.

Without warning Klaus ran smack-bang into an invisible wall. With a pained sigh he slid down an airborne slope. Finally he slid to the bottom in a mass of feathers and fur. Stars swam before his eyes as he pulled himself up. "Ah here we are, Shardtooth City! I forgot they had a magic wall..." Klaus said, dusting the snow from his wings.

"...Shardtooth City? We're supposed to be goin' to the Crystal Empire!" Applejack cried out, kicking a large pile of snow.

"Crystal Empire? I think you bumped your head Miss Applejack... that city hasn't existed in a millennia. I believe the stories tell of a great shadow and the disappearance of a great empire." Klaus pulled out a large leather-bound book. "Here it is, Ballad of Crystal."

"Ah don't care what the book says!" Applejack stood up and began pacing, "I swear you've been livin' under a rock! Oh wait, you ha-"

Fluttershy ignored Applejack and cupped her ear, sure enough she could hear a low hum that made her teeth chatter. Fluttershy reached out and touched the invisible wall. She gasped as her hoof slipped through it, like when putting on a sleeve. A rough arm grabbed her and yanked her through. "Applej-" Her cry was silenced by a thick, hairy hoof. Fluttershy wiggled and squirmed, turning to face her pony-napper.

Applejack finally finished her rant and looked around. "Klaus! Where'd Flutters go?"

Klaus opened his eyes, looking around fervently for the yellow pegasus he recently saw. "Perhaps she found her way back?"

Applejack rolled her eyes, "In less then five minutes? She isn't a unicorn by tha' way."

"This rock holds many answers! Tell me your hardened secrets my stony-faced friend!" Klaus kneeled down before it, one eye staring wide-eyed at a large shiny rock.

"Ah hate to break it to ya, Klaus, but umm, that's a rock..." Applejack said, clearly amused by Klaus's odd behavior.

"No, no! Clearly it is a gate into the city!" said Klaus, pointing up at the invisible wall.

"...Or quite clearly a rock." Applejack mumbled.

A loud click, followed by the noisy whirring of gears greeted the shocked earth pony. Applejack stared in awe as a large section of mirrored magic folded open. "Lucky guess!" Applejack shouted, one eye glaring at Klaus.

A large village stood within it, empty of any life. A pale yellow hoof vanished into a basement door as Applejack watched helpless. "Applejack!" cried Fluttershy, quickly muffled by the earth.

"We gotta do somethin'! Come on feather-butt, we got a pegasus to save... again." Applejack ran into the tunnel, not wasting a single second.

Klaus looked around for a bit and picked up a long, pointy stick. He sighed, wishing he still had his family pole-arm. "Suppose it will do... Now to rescue another damsel in distress!" He jumped in after Applejack, narrowly avoiding the low ceiling.

The two of them silently crept through the narrow tunnel, torches lined the wall at every turn. Before long they could hear muffled hoof-beats, obviously whoever they were after had slowed down. "Miss Applejack?" whispered Klaus, "Let me handle whoever pony-napped Fluttershy."

"She's mah friend. I'm sure I can handle myself." Applejack hissed back.

"Probably, but I am the one with a pointed stick." said Klaus.

"And with a thick skull... Give me that!" Applejack yanked the stick from his talons and held it out.

"I looked better with it..."

In the distance was a hunched pony-like figure. Coarse, tan and silver fur crisscrossed his otherwise featureless body. A spiny trail of bristles ran along his back like a wild boar. Fluttershy was being shoved into a large bone-colored sack, her body twisted away as her face was once again pushed in. "Let... me... go!"

"Pony, get in sack! Boss will want to see!" The hunched creature growled, hooves firmly clasped around Fluttershy's ankles.

Applejack cried out and jumped forward, swinging the stick around. She jabbed his back where it stuck fast. With a grunt of pain he yanked it out, staring at the stick. "Duh..."

"Oi, big fella!" Applejack taunted.

"Grrr! You little pony be mincemeat now!" The large pony turned to face Applejack. His fur coat was sticking up in anger, giving him a wild, feral look. Two long razor-sharp fangs protruded from his mouth.

"You're one ugly buck-" Applejack's insult was cutoff as the feral pony rammed her side. "Oof!"

Klaus jumped forward through the tunnel and raked his talons across the ponies face. "Arggh! Birdy-man is sneaky!"

Applejack watched as Klaus pinned the muscular pony down. "Watch out, Klaus!" Applejack said as she bucked the pony-napper in the face. The passed out body weighed a ton as it collapsed onto them, a trickle of spit dribbled onto Applejack's chin. With a look of disgust she wiped it off and flicked it onto the floor. "Eurgh, disgusting!"

Fluttershy hugged Applejack firmly, thanking her over and over. "Oh my, you two saved me! You're my hero, Klaus!" Fluttershy said, grabbing hold of the blushing griffon's neck.

"I gave her the pointed stick!" Klaus picked up the stick and snapped it.

"Why?" Applejack gave him a questioning look.

"What? Free firewood!" Klaus grinned, a large piece of wood caught fire as he accidentally held it to the torch. "Oh dear, fire is hot, FIRE IS HOT!"

Klaus ran in circles before deciding to sit on the burning wood. "See? All goo- OW! My butt is on fire, it's on FIRE!"

"Klaus!" Applejack called out to him. "Klaus! Put out the fire!"

Klaus continued screaming, running around holding his burning butt. Fluttershy pushed him over onto the snow-covered floor where his butt was quickly put out. Klaus collapsed back and sighed. "Phew! All that made me hungry for more jerky!"

Applejack and Fluttershy exchanged quizzical looks. Even Pinkie was relatively sane compared to this. Fluttershy laughed a little. "So how do we get back?"

"That way- Where'd the lights go?" Applejack stared at the black tunnel behind them, perplexed as to where all the torches went.

A loud grinding sound echoed through the tunnel. The clank of a bolt sliding into place was final in it's sound. "Did we just get locked in?"

"Ooh, a party!" Klaus stood up and began dancing.

"Sit down!" Applejack pointed at the floor as Klaus obeyed. "We're obviously not welcome here, so let's quietly follow the lit torches and find a back exit."

"I-i'm scared AJ!" Fluttershy whimpered, grabbing hold of her friends hoof. "L-let's just g-go home!"

"It's alright, sugarcube. If all else fails Klaus can be bait!" Applejack said jokingly, garnering a tiny hint of a smile from Fluttershy.

"Bait? Are we going fishing?" Klaus asked, oblivious to the insult.

Applejack used the torches as a kind of guide, preferring to favor the right side. If all else fails, go right. Thanks for that advice Granny, it's sure useful right about now. Applejack thought, naturally leading them right. The tunnel split of almost regularly, heading off in every single direction. Even several leading straight up. This city was beyond the size of any underground mine Applejack had even heard of. Come to think of it she'd never heard of another pony species before either.

"What d'ya suppose that creature was 'Shy? Surely you'd know!" Applejack wondered.

"Well I do but... it's not possible." Fluttershy replied, shaking her head in disbelief. "The only thing he or they could be is... S-s-sabertooth P-ponies!" Fluttershy's teeth chattered in fear as she visualized the long fangs biting Applejack.

"Shh! Relax, 'Shy! I'm sure Klaus is the scariest thing down here!" Applejack teased. "Sabertooth ponies huh? Well after what we've faced, it isn't too weird."

"B-but those l-large teeth!" Fluttershy shivered. "I'm fine, we're fine, nothing will get me..." She whispered to herself, slowly calming her nerves.

The tunnel finally reached an end, a breeze drifted against their faces from a large empty cavern. Applejack helped the others climb down, following in their wake. The ice underhoof was slick, Klaus ran in place as he tried running across. He smiled sheepishly and flew up, gliding around the empty cave calmly. A long shaft was chiseled through the roof, leading to the surface.

"Well, we ain't climbing through there. Maybe over there, I smell cooking." Applejack smiled at the thought of a nice apple pie, her thoughts broken by warning signs in her head. Fluttershy was to frightened to even move, let alone smell. Klaus on the other hand flew towards the scent, and towards the sizzling of meat.

Applejack looked up and groaned, "Klaus! Don't go in-" A clatter of pots and pans were followed by sounds of loud squawking and angry shouts.

"Where's my jerky!" cried Klaus.

"What jerky? Let me go!" A guttural female replied.

"Oh, now you're lying, ok..." The sounds of slapping echoed from the room.

"Stop it! Those hurt!" The female voice pleaded.

"They do? Then reveal the jerky!" Klaus shouted loudly, crying out as he was grabbed from behind. "Squawk! Let me go, my friends will beat you up!"

"Friends?! Capture them! Master will be pleased with fresh meat!" A deeper masculine voice commanded.

Applejack grabbed Fluttershy and fled back up the tunnel, eventually meeting a dead end. The sounds of manic laughter and rage followed them all the way to the end. Applejack turned to face her captors, hungrily licking their fangs. They stopped before them as a big, fat, Sabertooth Pony plodded forward, wearing a blood-stained apron. "So scrumptious, So delicious! Perfect for my stew! Da Butcher I am, the dinner ya gonna be!"

Fluttershy winced as large, black-iron chains were clamped around her hooves. "Does it have to be so tight? C-couldn't you loosen it a little? P-please?"

"No, tighter chain is better for tender flesh! My stew must be perfect!" The Butcher gnawed at her foreleg. "I might need some salt for this one... Put them in da 'special pantry'! NOW!"

Two burly Sabertooth's grinned and hoisted Applejack and Fluttershy onto their backs. "We gonna eat good tonight eh brother?"

"Ya, da furry chicken will be a treat. I forgotten what raw chick tastes like!" Applejack tried to wriggle free but was thwarted by the large pony who jolted her with a muscular shoulder.

Fluttershy was silent as a mouse, her body quivering as she was lugged around. After awhile they simply gave up, watching as the tunnel shifted past. The tunnels looped around the cavern, past the Butcher's shop and down, down, deep beneath the earth. A foul stench grew around them as they descended. It was a gut-churning smell of rotten meat, bad breath and rotten eggs. Applejack tried to hold her breath to avoid the stink but still it stung her nostrils.

A tiny room greeted them at the very end. Chains crisscrossed the back wall, covered in rust. A shelf rested beneath them, jars filled with pickled ears and blood-red sauce adorned it's surface. In the corner sat Klaus, face buried beneath his wings. He looked up towards the iron door as it swung open.

"Get in 'dere ya stinkin' meatsacks!" The larger Sabertooth said, scarred face turned up in a hideous snarl. A face even a mother couldn't love.

Applejack and Fluttershy were shoved through the door with pitchforks. Fluttershy squealed in pain as her flank was jabbed ever so slightly. Their jailers simply laughed, the key was swallowed whole.

"We ain't that dum'! Har, har!"

Applejack stood up and dusted herself up. "Whelp, looks like we may be in a bit o' a bind!"

Klaus looked up as if to say, well duh! He slouched back in embarrassment, sighing. "I'm not much of a hero, huh? My jerky always seems to get me in nasty business... I wonder if we'll taste nice?"

Applejack gave a defeated groan. "Look it's not your fault... ok, most of it is... but that's not the point! We can make it out together, all organs included!"

"But first, got any jerky?" Klaus asked.

"Jerky, strangely enough. Does not grow on trees." Applejack replied, rolling her eyes.

"....You sure?"

Fluttershy walked over to the other side of the cell and placed her hooves over her ears. "Here we go again..." She muttered.