The Tainted: A Story of Those Under Evil's Curse

Chapters

CHAPTER 1
CHAPTER 2
CHAPTER 3
CHAPTER 4
CHAPTER 5
CHAPTER 6
CHAPTER 7
CHAPTER 8
CHAPTER 9
CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 1

CHATPER 1: Crimson Verse: Before and After.

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

Then I knocked

Try to muster my courage; we haven't exactly left on good terms "Ink... brother are you in there? um it's Verse..." -emotions always fell around him- "Vinyl found me... said you were in need of support" -like always my voice broke.

I heard something from the other side.

I took a deep breath to build my courage.

I forced the door open against my wish not to do so.

I forced myself to press through the doorway; the image would be burned in my memory forever.

My brother; my strong and brave brother reduced to a sniveling wreak.

I couldn't let anypony see him like that.

I shut the door and turned back to him.

A wreak of a body on the ground.

A wreak of a body with blood dripping on the ground.

A wreak of a body with blood dripping from his rip cage.

A wreak of a body with the rip cage sticking out of it.

I fell to my brother's side in tears- "brother..." -my voice fails me- "you- you're rips..." -I bite back bile firmly in my throat- "they're sticking out..." -I saw his eyes widen.

His body starts to move.

Move as if he didn't have control.

His eyes were filled with fear.

Those large red eyes.

Those large... blank eyes?

Those eyes curtained between black hair.

Those eyes curtained between... blue hair?

His beautifully crimson coat the same as mine.

His... icy coat the opposite of mine?

His cuttie mark of a quill.

His cuttie mark... of a cloud?

"It's been awhile Versie," -I felt my eyes widen- "how have things been sense you ran away?"

When it spoke it came from a jawline full of razor sharp teeth.

"I learned quite a bit afterwords, perhaps I should show you..." -a wicked and toothy grin met me as I stepped backward- "it was in the fighting rings after all."

I felt my breath slow as the world around me slowed as well; a state of being that I've known all to well in the past.

I dodged swiftly as if his hoof was moving through water; it missed my nose but another ripped a clump of my hair out.

I force magic at my foe; a trick that seems to end before it begins.

I watch as it only makes his fur rustle as if only blown by a strong wind.

I feel something strong hit my leg.

Crack!

I scream feeling my leg is broken while I try to limp away.

I see his head lower and my mind is full of sad memories of when I was stabbed through the chest.

I kick forward, hard.

Crack!

I hit something hard.

I look forward to see my foe stumbling around as if lost.

Crash!

I look back and the door has swung open.

Vinyl Scratch charges into the room screaming "who the buck are you?!"

Octavia rushes in after Vinyl shortly after.

First I see Vinyl hit our foe in the face and then Octavia flies out of the sky and lands on his back.

Something is pulling at the corner of his mouth.

Something I fear.

The evil and toothy grin meets us all this time.

"See you fouls latter" he turns for the window.

Between the three of us we still can't stop him from crashing through the window and landing on the streets below.

I got to the window as fast as my leg would let me.

My breath rushes out at the sight.

The sight of my birth.

The times before even Luna and Celestia were born.

I tried to jump out after him but Vinyl and Octavia wouldn't let me.

"Damnation!" I can't help but scream as I have to watch from the window seal my brother disappear as well as the thing he has become.

I continue to watch even after he's gone.

This happened two years ago.

My name is Crimson Verse and I'm a vampire.

I'm also a dancer at a nightclub, like I have been for the last 15 years.

This new world feels as if the world has been covered in smog and the building have been changing until it seems to fit in with the with the dark mind that created this world that we now live in.

At my club I have to wear dresses and the owner thinking it makes him seem like a decent pony gives me the ones that he thinks will "suit" me better.

In reality all they do is give him something to stare at when I preform, such a sick pervert he actually is.

Today though the dress I got has me curious and in need of answers.

This dress is to much like the one from when I was just about to reach adulthood.

To much like the one I wore on that fateful day, even down to the blood.

The thought made my body shake with rage, just like the thought of my boss did.

It only got worse when I walked into the club with the dress on my back.

Then I was outside of his office door.

My eyes are twitching as I'm staring at the stained glass with his name on it.

I couldn't stand this stallion; more than my blood boiled around this guy.

My very being shakes with rage at the thought he might know to much about me.

I bucked the door open, well more like down.

I was tired of holding back my anger, it was time to brake a skull or two.

I heard the shriek of my boss and some other pony.

"What the buck is wrong with you?!" -I didn't recognize my voice as I shouted- "when I started we made a deal about what I would and wouldn't wear" -I threw the dress on his desk- "you crossed the line!"

I heard him scrambling but was blinded by my rage "now now Verseame" -I felt my anger rising hearing that nickname- "there is nothing about the dress that-"

I brought a hoof down hard on his desk cutting his voice out "that's shit!" -I didn't care if it would leave a bruise I hit the table again- "we were over the idea of blood on anything!"

"That's not blood, it only looks that way" -I felt the snarl starting to cross pull at my lips- "Verse just breathe, it was a request for a party that's going to be held here next month, besides it has the level of sex appeal that-"

I screamed something I didn't even understand at first.

I scream it again, this time hitting the desk for emphasis.

Thump!

"Your logic!"

Thump!

"Is a dream!"

Thump!!!

"Of horsewhips and chains!"

Crash!

I laughed as I felt the desk brake under hoof.

I laughed when he screamed in shock and fear.

I gladly let the whimpering mare run past me and outside as I held my boss up and shoved him against a wall as I took on a hushed tone.

"I've longed for the day I could do this to you" -I feel his fear like electricity- "how I have wanted to strangle you" -it's one of the best feelings ever- "for all that I have had to do" -it's the best addiction in the world- "all for this job" -I dropped him- "but I'm going to let you live, you better remember this."

I smiled and could feel how wicked it looked "you see, I can control my anger" -I took a long breath loud enough for him to notice- "but these is a limit to this control" -another breath- "I've worked as a dancer at this club for 15 years now" -a final deep breath- "I will wear this dress but you better pray to Luna and Celestia that you never give me an another reason to" -I drew my hoof across my neck- "well you know by now."

He let out a breath when I picked up the dress.

"Oh and one more thing" I could feel his body stiffen.

"Who put in the request?" -I was being a little to friendly, just like a snake- "you never rent out the club to others."

"Um it was just some stallion" -he was lying but he wasn't that sure of himself as he spoke- "he was really nice about it."

"Thanks, just forget I asked" -he seemed relaxed at that- "you're a horrible lier and have no clue yourself" -I gave him another sadistic grin- "but if you remember anything else you better let me know, I do know where you sleep after all" -he was panicked again; good- "I am good friends with your son after all and I'm sure he'd be more than willing to help me with... oh why am I telling you this, you already know that."

"Wait!" I didn't listen and left just using my magic to fix the door as I left.

As I walked for the entrance every pony kept their distances.

Once outside I did something I told myself I should never do.

I walked down the streets with my hood down.

"It's been a while sense you've let your hair down" -I spun around already regretting my choice about my hood- "I forgot about how you had it to let down" -I knew the voice but not the name- "I didn't think I'd have the hair to let down myself" -is it Ink or somepony else now?- "it's nice to see you again" -it feels like my flesh is crawling- "I'm going to be throwing a party at that club you work at and would love if you'd headline the show" -before I could even speak he jumped in- "or I could just tell Inks about your" -I felt my heart falls into the darkest part of my soul- "powers" he let me sit here as the word sinks in "Inks doesn't remember after all" -I felt my blood run cold- "but we do."

My heart feels like it's being swallowed by the darkness "you... how could... who the buck are you?"

"Me? I personally like the name Mist similar to the spell that created me" -he smiled and I saw his fangs like mine- "or you can call me Inks protector."

"You..." I turned and galloped off as my mood fell lower.

"I can remind him of it, just remember that Versie."

With his words ringing through my ears like a child's rhyme I picked up speed trying to calm my pounding heart.

When I got home I forced myself to get prepared.

Prepared to visit Bon Bon.

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 2: Bon Bon: The Search for Those that Might Not Live

It was late when I got home.

It was always late when I actually got home.

Usually after dragging myself around all of Manehattan.

All because I've been looking for my marefriend and the one who was protecting her.

They've been that way ever sense we rescued Dr. Whooves.

I could only press through the door and then lean against it.

I don't feel safe though, I lack the energy and desire so I just crawl to my bed.

Laying here I still don't feel safe.

I roll off and crawl under, I feel a little better here.

I feel horrid that the only reason we're still in Manehattan is because of my love going missing when I should have been watching her.

I can't even remember how long I've been searching for her or how long it has been sense Octaiva has locked everypony out of her affairs; even her precious Vinyl Scratch hasn't gotten a word out of her.

How long has it been sense Dr. Whooves needed to breath? or sense Derpy was still cross eyed?

How long has it been sense we all just got together to have a party or do anything as friends?

It's been way to long it seems and all I can do right now is stare at the door.

The door that had been ripped off it's hinges after Neon Lights tried to hide Lyra here.

The only trace of her remaining is her lyre.

It mocks me with how it knows what happened.

It's changed just like everypony else has, no longer is it that glowing gold but that dingy brown.

It's as if it no longer knows the words to the songs that it used to play with while Lyra would serenade me with or the songs when she stole my heart.

It only knows songs of sorrow and solitude.

Some nights it plays for me in my dreams, songs of loneliness and lack of use as if it's trying to talk to me.

As if it's trying to tell me what happened but it doesn't know the words.

Tonight it's silent as I lay here.

Knock, Knock! Knock! KNOCK!KNOCK!!KNOCK!!!

I nearly hit my head from surprise before I could get from under the bed and then to the door.

I feel my heart pounding with my hoof on the doorknob, what if I should answer it?

I have to open it a little though, just a sliver couldn't hurt.

I turned the handle.

Suddenly I was on the ground.

Slam! Click.

I looked up in fear and felt relieved seeing that it was only Crimson Verse.

After seeing how scared she looks I feel the fear returning stronger than before "what's wrong Verse? is some-"

Pop! a hoof covers my mouth.

"Be quiet" -her whisper is sharp and terrifying- "don't speak."

I was nearly whimpering at the thought of something being so terrifying that Verse is scared.

I look around and a faint tune fills my ears, Lyra must be practicing.

Reality hits me hard.

"Lyra... isn't here..." I feel the tears streaming down my cheeks shortly.

Even in this state I can still hear the tune and then start to hum along.

Verse has calmed down enough that she isn't shushing me but is in now way calm.

She must need some coffee.

I continue to hum along to the tune as I make coffee; somehow I'm scared but calm at the same time.

The coffee finishes and I start to remember the lyrics, as a cup in hoof trades to a magic aura I start to sing.

"In a lang of imagination" -where did I learn these lyrics?- "the times of sorrow and peace are one and the same" -Verse looks afraid of me- "in the times of old Vampyres" -the words roll of the tongue awkwardly- "and the Lycans, we search for those that can coexist."

I don't understand where the song comes from but I continue to sing.

"The search takes many high and low, to dungeons and brothels and then to the very ends of the world and our minds" -Verse takes a long drink of her coffee obviously on edge; what the hell am I even singing? it just seems to come from deep inside of my being "that is where your friends end up fellow Vampyres and Lycans, always the land where you least visit and after the things you don't want to transpire have -somehow this song is calming the hysteria that it's causing- in the end your search repeat that you have found those that you sought out. Goodnight bella mortes, and other creatures of the night.

I stumble around and eventually find a chair, and then a pen and paper "what are you doing Bon Bon?"

"I'm writing that down, Lyra will love to hear the" -a brick wall hits my face- "she's still..." I still start to write them down finding a new resolve "I'm going to write them down for her anyway!" -my vigor to find Lyra is renewed- "I'm just going to have to find her first!" before I wrote another word Crimson Verse's magic took the pen and paper from me.

"I'll write it down Bon Bon, you need a shower or something"

Or something?

She stopped paying attention of me as the pen was scratching against the paper at an alarming rate; by the time I had found a towel for my bath she had finished.

I just went to the bathroom and turned the shower on, watched for the steam to start as well.

I hopped right in and the heat did something I didn't expect.

It dealt with the sickness that has been in my body.

A sickness that I felt begin to rise again as I sat under the streaming water.

Something was boiling in my body.

Blood... my blood is boiling.

I feel the pain spreading through my body, shortly it's causing me to whimper.

And then I'm screaming until my throat is raw and worst of all my eyes are burning.

I'm able to crawl but I can't get over the wall of the tub.

I was in tears, I don't know why I'm still screaming.

I've been in here for an eternity without relief.

I clasp my jaw to the wall of the tub.

My teeth feel like they're bleeding.

I crawl out screaming, I can feel them deep in my gut.

I fumble to the door and can't get it open.

I'm finally able to get it open and crawl out of the bathroom and then hear a scream; an extremely famine one.

"What's going on Bon Bon?!" I cry out in agony something welling up in my chest.

"Help... it burns..." I felt her magic around me but it doesn't stop the pain.

It was weird but I was lifted onto her back, her hair looked like it was red "I'll get you to Dr. Whooves and we'll stop this" with that we were out on the streets headed somewhere fast.

We passed a window and in that moment I knew I would never be the same.

I knew that it was going to haunt my nightmares, my whole body looks like it's bleeding.

I'm going to die...

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 3: Dr. Whooves: Why All The Blood?

The room seemed to be shrouded in haze as I continue to work.

The haze cleared when I put the needle in my arm.

I blinked a few times remembering why I hated needles and take a blood sample.

If I'm right then this should be all I need to create a cure for what has been going around.

Shortly after what happened two years ago I was able to get a hearing from Celestia to first describe what has started to spread through the world and get permission to start work on a cure.

I put my blood sample into a machine that I created to run multiple blood tests at once with a bit of melancholy to the process.

I have learned quickly that I'm never going to be able to create a cure for the mental changes that have been forced onto everypony graced by the taint but I can do something for the physical changes.

I've been in need of this cure more than some with how it has altered my body; in different places bones are sticking out of my flesh, there is barely any flesh on my neck and half of my face is down to bone with a little muscle.

I've been in a state of hysteria ever sense I found a variable that has been keeping the cure just out of reach, suddenly my machine starts to feed out lines of data.

I look though them looking for the one variable that will destroy my theory and yet nothing shows up to that appeal.

I already know that there is no way I can cause it to reverse any physical damage but I can at least stop it.

I smile very softly though, I now have the means to make the cure on a world wide scale I only have to test it.

I have the materials here to make just enough for three ponies.

That means I'll have one dose left after treating myself and Derpy.

I'm gentle when I go to my sleeping love; she may not have changed much but I've noticed the changes and can't allow them to continue.

She barely reacts when I give her the shot, she tenses at first but slowly relaxes back into her sleep.

I'm trembling when it comes time for my own shot, I really hate needles.

I go quick and nearly pass out as pain shoots through my body finding the sources of my changing and stoping it from going any further.

I hear a knocking on my door and quickly wrap up the areas that are bleeding now, I can feel my flesh starting to gain back it's feeling.

I go to the door and open it looking out so that the good side of my face would be seen "Whooves it's Verse, Bon Bon is in desperate need of help" that was an understatement off of what I could see.

I quickly ushered them in and had Verse lay Bon Bon on the coffee table.

Verse was in the corner trembling "what happened Verse?" she's covered in the stench of blood, her hair has even been dyed red with it.

"Help her... she needs help..." she continued on saying different variations to that effect, I made her rest on the couch before I went to the makeshift operation table to look Bon Bon over.

She's bleeding an awful lot and didn't look like it was going to stop anytime soon; the worst of it was around her ears.

I couldn't see any of the sources of where the blood was coming from so I had to examine her body by hoof; as I feared her body was bleeding everywhere.

I was lucky that I had a third dose of the cure, I gave it to Bon Bon and held her down as she convulsed while the cure was going through her body and stopping the worst of the bleeding.

It could take years for the wounds to stop bleeding entirely though, I quickly cleaned off the blood and wrapped where it was still bleeding, she was almost completely covered in bandages even with the cure helping her body stabilize.

I took a look at her face and let out a soft sigh of releaf that her ears had stopped bleeding and that her eyes weren't going to start up either.

I looked around the room and saw that it was covered in blood where she had been, I found a mop and cleaned up what I could as fast as I could, luckily the hallways and elevator had red carpet and are scheduled to be deep cleaned today.

I went to the couch and Crimson Verse was trembling in the fettle position "are you okay Verse?"

No answer, I looked her over and remembered that she was covered in blood; she was rambling about a blood that was black or something.

I got her up and moving to the shower, I turned it on and got the water to a slightly warm temperature "be careful Verse, it's possible that the taint is traveling through the water system. I have a filter set up but it's not fool proof" with that I left her to shower in peace.

I took a sample of Bon Bon's blood and put it in the machine along with a sample of mine to see how quickly the cure was taking to the body to make an estimate of how long it will take for the cure to reach all of those who need it.

It could take longer than the last one had because I was going to do some in depth tests afterwords to make sure that there is no error.

Knock! Knock!

Someone is at the door?

I felt a bet of fear as I reached the door and opened it slightly.

I wasn't sure what I was seeing when I did open it though.

"Hello Dr. Whooves."

CHAPTER 4

Chapter 4: Vinyl Scratch and Octavia: Death Risks and Wishes

I'm weak and a mess of the mare that I used to be.

Octavia the concert Cellist.

Octavia the emotionless and stoic... more like Octavia the weak and defenseless or Octavia the scared.

I had been there... I was there the day that the world had changed; the day the world had become tainted by the last living Discordling.

I thought that the problem would have been eradicated with it's death.

The soft rapping on the door- "Octi?" -the sound of my tense breath- "are you in there?" -the sound of my sigh in annoyance- "please let me in Octavia."

I looked down to my hooves and saw my little toy... I can't let Vinyl see this... I shove it under the pillow before forcing myself off of the bed and then forced myself to the door.

I was trying to keep the annoyance out of my voice by letting my lack of sleep fill the space instead "what do you want?" when I saw her I couldn't help but compare it to how she looked while working on that one album right after I was living with her.

"What have you been doing in here Octi? you haven't answered me for weeks now..." I knew she was worried and regretted answering her this time.

I looked over the the pillow "... just sleeping."

"What are you looking at Octavia?" I couldn't trust my voice and just went over to the window and looked down on the dirty streets "stop ignoring me Octavia!" I just continued to look out at the streets "dammit Octi! why won't you talk to me?!" I took a deep breath "you only treated me like this right after you moved in with me and my parents" -I feel horrid- "what's wrong?"

I lay on the bed with my face buried in the pillow; please leave me alone Vinyl.

"What's going through your mind?" she cuddles up to me as if hopping for some attention "please talk to me dearest" I put my fore hooves over my ears; for the love of Celestia go away; her hooves start to massage my back slightly and I let out the slightest cry at the contact "what's wrong?" I just let out a soft sigh at the slight stress relief.

She rolls me over and I can't bring myself to meet her eyes "please say something... anything" she continues to massage my stiff muscles and I still can't bring myself to look at her "what's on your mind love?" she softly nuzzles against my chest.

I try to squirm out of her grip- "Vinyl I really don't want to talk about it..." -still I can't escape her grip.

"Then just lay with me?" -the hope in her voice is thick with tears- "you don't have to say anything at all..." she pulls me close nuzzling me as her tears start to make my coat wet.

"I..." -should I just tell her everything?- "I need to... I need to use the bathroom" I got up and almost ran to the bathroom where I started to berate myself.

"What am I doing? I was supposed to be gone by now..." I started banging my head on the sink "this is exactly why I'm so weak" I force myself to take long and deep breaths to calm the frustration "do I really want to be gone though... that doesn't matter I have to do it..." I forced myself to leave the bathroom after wiping my eyes of tears.

"Octavia?" I stop dead in my tracks "what is this for?"

Why did she have to look?! no no no no this isn't real! Damnation!

"Octavia?" my head was low as I forced myself to go over to her "are you alright?" I could hear the tears choking her.

I fell on the bed my face finding it's home pressed to the pillow "please speak to me" I felt a sob escape the facade and then her pulling me into a hug I couldn't bring myself to return "what's wrong?"

"Everything!" -I can't hold it in anymore...- "every bucking thing! you barely act as if anything has changed and continue to work on that, music of yours! Lyra and Neon Lights have been missing ever since the day everything changed! most of the elements are either missing or clinically insane! I'm a wreak and can't even bring myself to play the Cello or anything else!"

I try to rip the damned object from her but I'm thrown over her shoulder and then pinned underneath "this isn't a solution for that Octavia!" I continue my struggle against her and catch myself swearing at how much stronger she is than I am "stop it!"

I head butt forward barely catching her to send her sprawling back; with the chance I dive for my friend but as soon as I had it in my mouth I was tackled from behind and it was thrown across the room.

"Stop this! you of everypony should know what this can do to anypony!"

I screamed in frustration.

"I can't do this anymore!" -I nearly brake into tears- "please Vinyl..." -she just wont give up- "come on! it's all I ha-" CRACK! "ow!"

"Don't! say! that!!!" -I've never seen her this furious before...- "are you saying that you don't have me?!" -I started to feel worse and worse by the second- "fine! if I'm not yours then by all means do it!"

She stormed out quickly "Vinyl wait-" Slam! "... come back!" I stared at the ground "damnation... what have I done?"

Suddenly a scream rips through the silence; a scream I recognize.

"Vinyl!" I was out the door shortly trying to find any kind of clue as to where she went off to.

Thump! Thump!

What is that?"

Thump! Thump! oh my God!

Vinyl's music! I turn and run towards the sound and shortly after see her tied up and being carried away.

I dash forward as fast as my legs will take me.

Suddenly a gun is pulled on my; definitely a unicorn.

I find the energy to push myself faster.

Bang!

I feel the bullet skim my cheek.

I continue to run forward the distance quickly being covered.

Bang!

I gasp as I feel the warm trickle of my blood and nearly fall over feeling the white hot lead in my shoulder; but I don't stop, I have to save Vinyl "let the mare go!" my scream sounds different in my ears.

They start firing again and again each bullet finding it's mark somewhere on my body.

I should be dead by now but the adrenaline of my loved one being kidnapped won't let me die until she's safe.

I finally cross the last little bit of distance remaining and hit the first pony I can, hard.

I know I shouldn't be able to move but I keep fighting while they are starting to regain their senses.

Suddenly a hoof swipes past my face fallowed by another braking my shoulder.

Another one slams into one of the wounds sending hot needles into my vision but I continue to fight for my love as my vision is beginning to turn black.

"Why won't she die?!" I start to laugh as I send one flying through the air and then shortly after one of his friends as well.

As they start to run I'm able to take one more out but before I can ask any questions the adrenaline leaves my body at the victory.

"Vinyl..." I crawl despite the desire to just curl up and die "are you okay?" I fall just before I could reach her and despite how I'm bleeding I try to pull myself over to her; the blood in my mouth prevents me from speaking coherently.

"Octavia?" I look up despite the lack of strength through my body "why did you come?" no matter how hard I tried to answer her I couldn't my life about to leave me.

"Help me..." I nearly cried when I got something out that she could understand.

"Shit!" -I'm being picked up- "I'll... Dr. Whooves might be able to help..." suddenly we're moving but I can't tell which direction and as time passes I can only see blurs and shapes.

And then nothing at all.

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 5: Neon Lights and Lyra Heartstrings

A loud and steady beat fills my ears.

It slowly gets louder and faster.

"Get back here!"

My heart feels like it's going to burst.

"Where is she?!"

My hooves pound underneath like thunder.

"I don't know! she couldn't have gotten that far!"

I look around frantic knowing that I'm lost, there are so many twists and turns around; walls around me closing in.

Falling on top of me.

Crushing me.

A set of hoof steps draw me to the current hallway, seemingly empty.

Where are they?

A sudden warmth on my neck makes me tense.

Like a spring I spun around and bucked forward.

Thump!

"Ouch!" I saw a quick as lightning motion and his mouth was covered.

"Lights? I... I thought you were dead" I embraced my friend in a hug.

It was returned for a short moment and then I was pushed away gently and he was silent looking around.

"Hey, are you okay?" -no response- "do you know what's going on around here?" still no response... something is wrong with him... if only I had my contacts to see his eyes, you're eyes always give you away.

"I'm..." -his voice sounded almost animalistic- "not normal" that doesn't make any sense.

"What are you talking about?" I found myself squinting trying to get a read on why his presence felt different.

"We..." -again that animal like voice- "can talk about that later" he started down a hallway and I found myself fallowing behind.

"What are we doing?" -pause- "I mean I thought you were dead" -something was wrong as we continued to walk- "I mean the gun shot and then..." -something is extremely wrong- "the brain matter... on the floor where..." keep calm Lyra, there must be some kind of explination.

I got a little carried away and walked forward quickly pulling him to turn around; that's when it all made sense.

I didn't expect the length of his fur... that's something I could have overlooked easily but his face wasn't something I could overlook.

"You, and fur... and then... fangs... what the buck are you?!" the sound of nearby hoofsteps made me regret the outburst.

"What was that?"

"I don't know, why don't you go and check it out?"

I watch as slowly a pegasus turns the corner.

I watch not breathing as Neon Lights starts to react.

Reacts by caving in the skull of this pony.

I try not to scream as blood starts to fall to the ground.

I found that blood makes me salivate now, I needed to drink that blood but I was denied that need by Neon Lights strong body "stop" -I became tense ready to rip from his grip- "you're not used to the urges of being a vampire yet" I groaned wanting nothing more than to eat.

"Hey you alright?!" my hunger disappeared in that moment.

Neon Lights looked to me and we both had the same thought that came out as a whisper "shit."

I hear the hoofsteps coming closer and steel my mind and then a unicorn rounds the corner.

He isn't one for long though.

I tore his horn off and then shoved it down his throat.

I nearly scream as blood sprays over my face, but then I licked my lips.

I see the sweet blood pouring from his mouth and can feel myself salivating more than before.

In that moment I did something I thought I would never do.

I kissed a stallion.

I kissed a dead stallion.

I kissed a dead stallion that was bleeding into my mouth.

I moaned at the taste filling my mouth and warm sensation pouring down my parched throat.

Moaned for the first time ever at the taste of blood and kissing a stallion.

This beautiful dark kiss.

The kiss of a deadly hunter and her pray.

The bloody kiss of hunter and pray.

This horrid kiss of death.

I started gagging and coughing as I pushed the body away from me and then doubled over "what is wrong with me?!" I look back waiting for an answer and only see his form somehow less blurry than before.

I don't think Bon Bon could ever look at me again if she saw this but that isn't even the worst part... I'd do it again.

With anypony at all... even Bon Bon.

Something hit my sense hard; the sound of hoofsteps, the scent of sweat, the taste of blood in the air, and then I saw everything crystal clear even the look of disgust and fear on Neon Lights face.

I surveyed my surroundings and knew that if anyone was getting out of here tonight I'd have to act quickly.

I walked towards Neon Lights and before he spoke I ran forward with a hoof over his mouth "go, get help from the outside" he looked at me stunned and I started to make it look like I had been attacked by something with sharp claws "ow... look I'm going to make it seem like I was dragged from my cell and barely escaped..." -still he wouldn't move- "run for it. Look for Vinyl or Bon Bon... just bring help" he nodded and then turned quickly and ran.

I started to do things I didn't want him to see.

I broke a shoulder, a hoof, teeth, and my jaw.

It hurt which helped me shed tears while I used the corpse I had fed from as if hiding from something.

As they turned the corner I had fallen into the role of the poor and mistreated mare afraid of the beast that had taken her away from safety of her cell.

I was escorted to a new cell, one without a lock, one where I would be stuck just as much though; a hospital...

I was stunned seeing none other than Nurse Redheart tending to other patiants even if her smile was obviously forced no one else would notice with their own worries on their minds.

I wanted to cry for real in that moment.

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 6: Dr. Whooves and Octavia: Dead and Deader.

I don't know what I'm seeing when I look forward after opening the door, what should I do?

"Hello Dr. Whooves" I can only stare at this new guest.

Can only absentmindedly unlock and open the door.

Can only stare as this blue pony with the wicked grin walks in.

"Who are..." I can't force words out "can I..." I end up just sitting here.

A commotion was happening and then I heard some talking; perhaps yelling?

Shortly after he walked by and I saw that his coat was red but I didn't pay it much mind.

I felt off while everything returned to me; as if my mind had started working all of a sudden "what just-" Knock! Knock!

I was careful this time when I went to the door; something had happened last time, even though I'm not sure what it was.

I cracked the door at first but swung it open at what I saw.

First I nearly screamed but after the fear had worn off I rushed my new guests in; Vinyl Scratch was hysteric and Octavia was well... she's seen better days.

We had the later on the couch shortly; I was speechless and Vinyl Scratch was rambling "she came for me... why? I thought that she didn't... but she... and the guns... then she was shot... still she came... why would she..." it went on and each word was hard to listen to the pain obvious in her voice.

The problem right now is that Octavia isn't technically alive in the first place and I'm not sure how that's changed her anatomy or basic bodily functions; she's not breathing right now but I'm not sure if she needs to breath in the first place.

She is bleeding and I know that is really bad, I quickly went to work cleaning the wounds and she would let out slight cries of pain; she has at least 13 bullets in her chest.

I wish I was a unicorn so I could use my magic to slowly take them out; wait Crimson Verse, of course!

I ran to the room that she had taken to after bringing Bon Bon to me; shortly after I screamed.

She has a black eye and a few wounds that are bleeding badly and worst of all she was whimpering as if it were still happening.

I heard Vinyl Scratch behind me scream at the same sight shortly after.

And then a third scream joined us; Bon Bon was right next to me looking surprisingly better.

She was quick to calm down and then started to take care of Crimson Verse, I let out a soft sigh in relief before I turned to Vinyl Scratch who had thankfully also calmed down "okay, she's going to be fine. Let's go take care of Octavia" we went to the couch and I softly bandaged up the few areas that I could while talking "she's got 13 bullets in her chest and I need to get them out... now I can do it but it could take a few hours... is there anyway you can remove them with your magic and without hurting her anymore?"

She shut her eyes and nodded once before her horn started to glow as she went about what I had asked of her.

The metal came from Octavia's body and then fell to the ground when Vinyl Scratch let her magic disperse after the clang filled the room Vinyl Scratch spoke with tears choking her voice "are you gonna be able to save her?" -I tried to say something but I couldn't bring the words out- "will you promise that she'll be okay?"

I wanted to tell her the truth- "I promise" -but I couldn't bring myself to say it.

After that lie I went to Octavia and began to clean out the wounds and with how many bullets had torn into her chest a large chunk of it was ripped off.

I know from experience that the amount of blood loss this would suggest her chances of living being extremely unlikely that she could live through it; it would take more than luck for her to pull through.

What was next made my heart heavy thinking about how Vinyl Scratch is never going to forgive me for braking her promise; I have to prevent anymore possible blood loss so I'm going to have to stitch up the cuts and cauterize what remains.

I can feel my hooves shaking and try to take calming breaths but they don't help any and I know that I shouldn't do what I'm about to do.

I go to the fridge and pull out the six pack of bear bringing them over to Vinyl Scratch "feel free to indulge, their's more in the fridge" I grabbed one and downed it before she had even grabbed one.

I go back to her and my hooves aren't shaking but my vision is a tad bit blurry.

All I can do now for Octavia is go through the motions and pray that by some miracle that she'll live.

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 7: Octavia: Mama

White hot iron is pressed against my wounds and all I can do is watch through placid eyes.

With the precision as it was pressed against my neck it must be a unicorn.

The world is spinning, it must be from the medication they must have given me and moments later I'm wide awake looking up at the ceiling.

Eventually I pull myself up so I can look around; I'm in the middle of the tent.

What happened?

I get off the bed to look around but as soon as my hoof touches the ground the tent is whisked away by a sandstrom.

Sand starts to swirl around as I'm finally standing on the ground.

Nopony is around me as I start to walk around the ruins that are covered by sand.

Suddenly it picks up and I'm blinded and despite my best efforts wiping it away isn't going to help but just as suddenly as it came it left.

My surroundings changed drastically while in the time I was blind and I find myself walking through war torn streets; it almost seems as if I'm on a spider web at the center.

Suddenly bullets start screeching over head trapping me in the spiders trap.

I feel one graze my ear sending a sharp whine into my ear long after the bullet has gone.

A fear starts to press against my thoughts nearly sending me into a panic, it's only after I slide under a barricade that I find myself curled up against the safety trying not to go insane with fear and it's only after seeing others hiding with me that I'm able to calm my fear; I have to be brave if not for me then them.

All of them are hurt but at least they are alive.

Bang!

Suddenly I'm covered in gore and it makes breathing almost impossible.

I guess things are never going to change, I see a chance and scream for everyone to run while I'm leading the charge.

Suddenly a large explosion causes the air to feel with screams, I try to keep calm even as rubble is falling all around me.

Fire is everywhere and I can hear somepony speaking throughout all the madness that surrounds us.

I continue forward seeing shelter in an old building.

As soon as I went through the doorway I was in a field of flowers.

I became reverent at the sudden change from the war torn path I had been running through not even a moment ago.

I was finally safe and started to walk around through the flowers; as if I had finally found a home where I could be safe.

I look around and see the ponies all around me some limping but all of them looking a lot better but one was missing... the one that I can't live with out.

I feel the tears falling from my eyes as I run back screaming her name.

I burst from safety back onto the field of war seeing a mare limping desperately to safety as bullets are hitting the ground all around her.

I run forward providing a shield and support to help her along.

I scream feeling something bury it's way into my shoulder but continue to pull our way to safety.

Eventually I pull us through the doorway to safety but it's gone.

I get her to cover and do what I can for her wounds even though I'm losing blood a lot faster.

"Octi?" I felt a spark of regret at that one "you're bleeding..."

I didn't say anything and pulled the bandages around her bleeding wounds.

I slump forward onto the mare I love with a soft laugh "I know" I hugged her close.

I see blood starting to stain her white coat crimson and close my eyes ready to take my last breath.

Everything goes red as I continue to bleed even though I keep my eyes shut tight not wanting to see the mess that it's causing.

And in that moment I take my last breath.

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 8: Lyra Heartstrings: Bleeding for Freedom

I was in bandages when I woke up, I don't know how long I've been out but I know I went from the frying pan into the microwave; I'm bandaged up almost everywhere and the few places that weren't were scared sadly; I must have made my little show a bit to convincing.

I had made myself a distraction so that Neon Lights could try to escape so that he could try and escape and hopefully then find some help for me and that has left me laying in this bed in pain praying that he can somehow pull it off... now all I can really do is heal to the best of my ability.

"What did you do to yourself Lyra Heartstrings?" -I tensed at that question- "you look as if you had been attacked but the wounds are only deep enough they look bad, well except for the missing teeth..."

Nervously I looked around trying not to sigh at all the pain that is around me, I motioned for Nurse Redheart to come closer "I... made a scene so that a friend of mine could have a chance to escape," -I looked around nervous- "but that was before seeing all of the ponies in here" she backed away and took her turn to look around at all of the sick or injured prisoners.

I felt my vision go black as my mind started to replay the events that had lead to me coming to this situation and realization.

The pony Neon Lights killed.

The blood that had hypnotized me.

The unicorn that I turned Earth Pony.

The blood that I took during our kiss.

I shivered at the memory and started to salivate "Lyra?" I shook my head a sense of horror playing through my mind "are you doing okay?" I only nodded; nothing I could tell her about "I don't think that you or any pony would be able to get us out" I looked around and winced seeing a pony in a full body cast "to many of us can't walk."

"What happened? why are so many injured?" she wasn't able to meet my eyes and wouldn't even acknowledge that I had asked her a question. I was about to shout for an answer but then I saw the stallion that had drawn her attention; he had a dingy blue coat and ash gray hair and worst of all he was heading right towards us.

"Well hello nurse, who's your new patient?" their's something about this stallion that bothers me but I can't put my hoof on why.

"All I know is that she is hurt badly" -that's vague...- "I haven't even learned her name yet" -but she knows who I am...- "and I can't let you start talking with her when I haven't even seen her mental state, it's highly likely that she has post traumatic stress disorder, and don't even get me started on those guards that brought her in laughing as if it were all a joke." She looked ready to explode as he came forward "all I could get out of those imbeciles was that she was cowering behind a dead guard" this pony just shoved her aside coming closer towards me causing me to pull the blankets over my head.

"What's your name little filly?" I felt my body stiffen like a board "it's not going to be a name that ends with green is it?" I couldn't force a word out as if he had frozen me to the spot "does the cat have your tongue?" I shivered this time and pulled the blanket tighter over my head "are you scared?" I closed my eyes praying that he would stop talking sometime soon; it felt as if his voice was slowly freezing my body.

"For Celestia's sake! you're scaring the poor girl!" I heard some kind of commotion, followed by a slight scream of pain "fine!" I heard the sound of hooves pounding on the ground.

"That's a lot better now, now that I don't have that nurse chomping at the bit, what, is, your, name?" the way he had said it made my body tense even further feeling as if I were a rubber band ready to snap.

"L...Lyra H...Heartstrings..." suddenly I heard a hiss.

"Hey Redheart I believe I've actually heard of this on!" I tried to hide further into the bed "she's that harp player from Ponyville, you know the one that whatshisname was obsessed with!" it made me cringe at how loud he yelled but that wasn't the part that got on my nerves the most, it was the way he had seemed friendly.

"Very good Mist, can I take care of my patient now?" there was another laugh and then something whispered that I couldn't catch sadly "are you okay darling?" I lowered the blanket and took a deep breath before sighing "ya... he has that effect on ponies... you're safe to relax now" she looked aside at a cart but I couldn't tell what was on it "um if you're alright with it I'd like to start stiching up a few of these cuts" I nodded and she put a wet towel on my forehead which felt amazing; granted a little lightheaded but still amazing "sleep well Lyra Heartstrings" suddenly everything went black.

I was out like a light.

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 9: Bon Bon: Panic Attack!

I tense feeling pain spreading through out my body and in that instance it ends without a reason just like it's coming.

I start to look around and everything feels so peaceful; Dr. Whooves and Vinyl Scratch are sharing a beer while Octavia is asleep on the couch, it brings a smile to my lips at how this feels like old times.

I hear running water behind me and then when I look I see Crimson Verse timidly standing under the shower head, I'm just here to make sure that she doesn't get hurt again or anything else like that.

It all shattered as a scream filled the air around us.

A scream that could only be born from pure terror or death.

Suddenly Dr. Whooves and Vinyl Scratch were besides Octavia worry obvious in their body language, I quickly joined them unsure what was going on; all I know is that Octavia is screaming.

My body goes stock still as her mouth stops moving but the screams wont stop; it feels as if the room is spinning.

That scream... there's always something about a scream, few ponies ever scream if they want to and then most can't scream in their sleep.

We are all trying to bring her back to reality but nothing is working so I find myself wiping sweat from my eyes and that's when I nearly joined in on the screaming.

I'm bleeding again, I can't tell from where but at least the few cuts I had patched up after waking from my sleep weren't bleeding; suddenly I felt my mind come to life, she must be having a nightmare.

I rubbed my forehead and I could still feel the sweat but it wasn't as important as my terrified friend.

I wish I knew how to sooth her mind... wait maybe Vinyl Scratch nows something that could work "Vinyl?" -she looked to me- "was there ever anything that she enjoyed to do when relaxing? anything at all?" her brow furrowed at the question, she seemed to have an idea forming.

"Well she likes when I play the piano... I had one at home but we're in Manehattan right now..."

Dr. Whooves went to a bed room and started pulling out various things "I believe their's one in here somewhere" after a bit he pulled a keyboard out from the closet "I mean it's electric but it still works" with that he sat it down on the ground which shortly after lead to Vinyl Scratch walking over to the piano.

I had never known that she had such talent on the piano, it feels as if I know that song and I find myself starting to sing along "come little child of mine, even when the world around you feels like it's going to end" -everypony is looking at me now- in the end you find a beginning no matter how dark, no mater how you may think things will never work out. Come child of mine, walk into the sun, run through the fields of flowers like you used to, laugh and smile like you did" -Crimson Verse joined in suddenly; she must have finished her shower- "come on little child, your brother would love to see you" -Octavia was starting to calm down- "we just want to dance around in the flowers -Octavia was starting to smile softly; oh thank Celestia- "as you start to fall I find you in solitude, but I search on for the soul of my lost children" -I feel a calm start to settle over myself- "the soul that she tainted in her hopes of being as good as those she loves, we love you little ones of the night, those that have been hunted for how they have changed through the times, those have become hunters of blood and those that have become guardians of the heavens and the places beyond" -how is it that Crimson Verse knows the lyrics to this song? how do I know the lyrics?- "in this little town you will forever be our child. Let your mistakes only teach you as you continue on into the future.

The piano slowly faded out as Vinyl Scratch was finishing up, I looked around and everyone was looking at me and Crimson Verse and shortly after they all focused on her.

"How long have those lyrics been in existence Verse? oh and by the way they fit nicely to the song" Crimson Verse looked extremely uncomfortable but eventually brought herself to speak.

"Um my mom sung this to me when I was ten years old..." thinking about it I don't have a clue as to how old Crimson Verse is.

"When was that Verse?" I was afraid of the answer to that one at the same time as I was curious.

"I can't remember exactly anymore but I was born during the Gothic era and reached maturity at the height of it" everypony was dumbfounded.

"That's like forever ago Verse" -she blushed as Vinyl's mouth kept running a mile a minute- "I mean Octavia just matured last year" -in this moment I understand exactly what Octavia has to deal with on a daily basis- "and I'm about-" I hit her side hard "omph! what was that for Bonnie?" I smacked her once more for good measure.

"One only Lyra is allowed to call me that and second you're embarrassing poor Crimson Verse" before anypony else could say something I led Crimson Verse outside "are you okay Verse?" with that she embraced me in a tight hug.

"I'm ooooold!" she's started to sob... "I'm centuries old, well millenniums old technically... I've learned so much that it feels like my brain is going to explode..." -all I can do is listen and softly pat her back- "and to make it worse you and your friends are barely adults, and I'm old enough that I could have owned a castle when Startswirl the Bearded was just born!" I was silent and let her rant on even after the words weren't making sense to either of us.

Though the rant I did learn that she had been royalty of some kind and I could tell that it was bothering her.

I heard some hoofsteps behind us and we both turned to the source and I felt Crimson Verse brighten up slightly, behind us was a pegasus with beautiful red eyes that were almost the same shade as his coat.

"Is that you Dark Tone?" at the question this pegasus smiled softly.

"Small world seeing you here Verse" Crimson Verse broke from my grip softly before she walked over to him.

I quickly disappeared inside to Dr. Whooves apartment; it was a lot more relaxed then it had been when I had left.

I joined them and found myself drifting off on the chair right by Octavia's make shift bed.

Everything turned to dream.

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 10: Dark Tone: Let's Play a Game Dark.

It's been another long night as I've been hunting down any leads on the missing Swift Note and Synth Note.

Sadly it has been a fruitless affair and I find myself dragging my feet as I go for the elevator on the way home; once the door close I find myself softly groaning "such a busy night..."

The doors open slowly for me and I see none other than Crimson Verse speaking with a cream colored mare.

"Is that you Dark Tone?" I felt a smile reach my lips softly.

I walked towards her while speaking "small world seeing you here Verse" she ran to me and I was nearly tackled to the ground by her embrace.

It ended up being the kind of hug where you awkwardly shuffle because you don't want to let go of each other; I wonder what has her in such a great mood.

Say what you will about dating an unicorn it comes with a ton of benefits; for example I didn't have to struggle with the door while we shuffled through which after she quickly shut the door.

My vision blurs for a moment and I find myself on the couch with my back pressed firmly against it by the weight of my lovely Crimson Verse; I did my best not to smirk "is there a reason that I'm here?" I ended up smiling for a second though.

She only smiled to me, and in a second there was no way that either of us could answer as her lips locked firmly over mine; it is a bit of a shock with her being on the offensive.

After a few minutes she pulled away from the kiss and I finally got the chance to breath, and she was panting from her little attack as well but it was a short lived though.

This time she was being more ferocious and then started to rub my legs roughly and I could feel her start to smile before she pulled back "my, my someone's excited to see me" and then I was struggling for air again.

It was becoming harder and harder to keep track of my thoughts as feelings of arousal started to take over, suddenly she's pressed against me firmly nibbling on my ear sending rippled of pleasure down my spine.

"It's been awhile hasn't it Dark?" I let out a groan hearing her pet name "how about we make it interesting?" I raised an eyebrow and she smiled "perhaps I should remind you" I yelped when she slid lower "see who has better control?" I felt my eyes go wide then snap to half mast as she kissed my neck "loser has to do, whatever, the winner wants" I forced myself to focus.

"Deal."

With that one word she quickly took me by surprise by starting straight into full speed and I found myself fighting to take control against her magic; anything goes then?

I try to spread my wings to roll over but it wont work against her magic grip; how long have you been thinking about this one love?

It feels as if I'm one with the coach and she pulls away from the kiss and I whine when I notice her looking down "mmmm" -she started to exert more energy- "how is the spell feeling?" -spell?

I found myself bringing my attention fully on whatever spell she had just cast and when I found it a wave of pleasure sent me bucking my hips against hers, and as much as I wish I could say I kept my noises to a minimum I'd be lying.

Suddenly the grip of the spell released and I found myself whining, I tried again to take control and this time I got my wish.

I had her wrapped close to me with my wings and rolled over and grinned; I'm not going to hold anything back now Verse but that must be what she wanted as I started to work myself up way to fast.

I tried to stop to catch a breather but her magic seemed to take hold again, and I then started to go even faster.

She's being awfully quiet; I zoned in on that thought to keep from losing myself but she then let out a moan I could feel throughout my body; a moan that made my whole body shiver.

I felt myself moaning nonstop as I was getting closer to my climax and then in a moment it happened and after riding it out I then collapsed on her panting; I eventually felt her softly stroking my mane "how are you feeling love?" I felt a soft smile on my lips.

"Never better" I gave her a firm hug "what is it you wanna do?" I wasn't ready but at least I could prepare for it somehow, but I felt tension in her body before she let out a long sigh "what's wrong love?"

"Um... he showed up" I felt the tension take my body.

"As in what-" she nodded placing her hoof on my mouth and I saw the bruises in that moment.

"Yes... he gave me a beating..." I became aware and ready to kill seeing and hearing that "said if I continue to look for him that... um he'd kill me..." I could feel the fear in her words as solid as her body "I... um can you try and find him? at least find out why he wants me to stop..." the hope that shone in her eyes was heart wrenching "please?"

I whispered to her softly "of course love, you didn't need to have a game for my help" at that she smiled softly then after a moment nipped at my ear; I'll admit it's a weakness of mine.

"Well if you'll still let me" -her tail brushed against my side playfully- "use my win" a smirk spread to her lips and then she gasped when I kissed her neck "oh for the love of Celestia" she bit her lip for a moment and I continued softly "I know exactly what we can do next,"

"Dark"