A Canterlot Storyby LunarRepublican78ChaptersThe Grand Galloping GalaCloud's Coming Of AgeTying Loose EndsThe Rich Stallion and The Homeless ColtThe Grand Galloping GalaWithin the carriage, Chrono and Cloud awaited their arrival to the Gala. A smirk spread across Cloud's muzzle. "Can't wait can you?" questioned Chrono. "Not one bit" replied the Pegasus. The moment he noticed the carriage stopped moving, his smirk turned into a full smile. "We're here." breathed Chrono. Before either of them had exited, two large earth pony stallions exited the carriage and scanned their surroundings. Once they believed the area to be safe, Chrono and Cloud followed. Behind them two more stallions (unicorn) had followed. "Mm....It's going to be a great night isn't it?" commented Chrono. "The BEST!" replied Cloud. Upon reaching the front gates of the castle, Cloud eagerly tried to brush past the Royal Guards only to have them point their spears at him. The second the guards presented themselves as threatening, the two earth pony stallions jumped in-between Cloud and the armed guards. "Dear peers, please forgive my son's eagerness. He is after all quite excited to be at this great Equestrian event." announced Chrono as he opened his coat. As the guards focused on Chrono they recognized the emblem in his coat and quickly lowered their weapons. "Terribly sorry, Sir. Please forgive our.....unprofessional greeting and enjoy the Gala." said one of the guards. "Thank you. Have a pleasant evening" replied Chrono. Once they entered the Gala, Cloud searched frantically for the dance floor. "You go off and find her, but please do not start anything." said Chrono. "I will, thanks!" replied Cloud with an earth pony and unicorn stallion following him. "Ah, the youth. What potential they have now a days." said Chrono. "Now then..." added Chrono. "Time for me to have some fun" "Yum, these d'oeuvres are tastier than I thought they were. " thought Chrono as he chewed away at the sweets. Before his eyes, he recognized a white coated stallion walking towards him. "Hm... a removed royal COULD be a huge asset to us..." Picking his pace up, he noticed a whited coat mare alongside Blueblood and soon wondered her name. Before he reached them though he witnessed Blueblood force the white coated mare to use her shawl to cover a puddle for him. This in mind, he lumbered towards him. Just before going passed him, Chrono brushed his shoulder towards Blueblood bumping him. A look of disdain on his face, Blueblood commented to Chrono "Heathen!" Quickly turning to him, Chrono replied to the royal "Dear Celestia! You must be intelligent to know how to talk! " A look of shock and anger lay on Blueblood's face. "Do you know who you are speaking to?!" "No am I supposed to know?" replied Chrono. "I am Prince Blueblood! Nephew of Celestia! I can have you-" "And I am supposed to be impressed by that because?" interrupted Chrono. "Insolent pest! One more word out of you and I will have you- " "Sentenced to listening to you all day long? I wouldn't even wish that upon you in a million years." said Chrono as he walked past him with a smirk on his face. "Oh yes, before your handlers put you back into your cage, learn to treat a beautiful mare right." commented Chrono as he left the room. With his associate earth pony and unicorn, at his sides he searched along the crowds of ponies to find Cloud. Amongst the crowds of ponies he spotted Cloud alongside Octavia. Before reaching them he noticed two Pegasus on the other side of the room he recognized all too well. Cautiously he continued to Cloud and Octavia. "Are you two enjoying the night?" questioned Chrono. "No, that pink mare has been ruining Octavia's music since before we got here!" commented Cloud. "I don't know if we have to but we might have to cut this night short." said Chrono. "What?! Why?!" protested Cloud. "THEY are here in this room with us" said Chrono as he edged his hoof to the two pegasi. "How did they get in?" questioned Cloud. "I don't know but what I do know is that the second they see us they'll come at us so I suggest we all leave and make this night memorable some other way." replied Chrono. "Sir, they're blocking the doorway." said one of their earth pony associates. "What? They are?" replied Chrono. "An they're coming this way too." said Cloud. Closer and closer the two pegasi inched towards them until the doors leading to the outside swung open and animals scattered into the room. Panic spread throughout the dance floor and amongst the panic the approaching pegasi sidetracked into the panic. "NOW'S OUR CHANCE!" declared Chrono. "Cover yourself Octavia! You can't be seen with us!" said Chrono as he covered her with his coat. "Go on go! I will take care of any that will try to follow you! They'll be more focused on me anyways!" "But-" "JUST GO!" roared Chronos. Obeying his word, Cloud, Octavia and three of their associates had exited amongst the panicked ponies as Chronos and his remaining Unicorn partner stayed and fended off anyone who tried to follow. All until they were both arrested by the Royal Canterlot Guards Cloud's Coming Of Age"I told you not to stay up for so long" stated Octavia as she noticed Cloud falling in and out of sleep. "Well what can I say, I get paranoid Fossil will do something stupid" commented Cloud. "I thought that was your job" replied Crono. Only moments had passed since Chrono was released from the Royal Guards. Currently, the three of them were being transported back home. For days, Cloud would stay up worrying himself over Crono's safety. Ever since they became family, he's worried about his safety, especially since Crono was older than either Octavia or Cloud. While in their carriage, Cloud laid his head to rest before Octavia. Before fading to sleep, Cloud felt Octavia's hoof move through his ink colored mane. "Octavia..." whispered Cloud as he knocked out. "RAGHHHHH!" groaned Cloud. "You know I hate orchestras!" "Oh, come on Cloud! This is a rare occasion! Neightoven will be played! Much better than those dreadful noises you're always blasting in your room!" said Crono with excitement. "It's called DUPSTEP!" retorted the young colt. Even with the refusal, Crono still held the shiny tickets in front of Cloud with a giddy smile. An eye roll under his long mane later, Cloud gave in. "FINE! I'll go but I won't like it. And I'm going the way I want to go!" barked the Pegasus. While on their way, Crono took a quick look at his adoptive son. "Damn it, Cloud! You've lived with me for years and yet you act like a spoiled brat! You always take everything for granted and you only call for me when you need me to bail you out for something you HAPPILY ADMIT to doing! What's even worse is that you don't respect yourself! I offer to buy you the most expensive clothes in Canterlot and yet you just wear clothes that you get from flea markets! I thought I was helping you by taking you off the streets...." thought the unicorn. The orchestra wasn't anymore pleasure for either of them. While Crono tried to enjoy the music, he couldn't shake off the troubles Cloud kept bringing. Cloud's boredom reached a whole new level. Desperately, he tried to find a distraction from the orchestra. While searching, his attention was caught, not by something but by somepony. Being in the front row, he had a full view of the gray coated, mulberry eyed mare playing the cello. Around him, nothing seemed to have existed to him. His eyes were set and focused on the mare. He saw the pink musical note on her flank and watched her movements as she played her instrument. Carefully, he focused on the musical sounds that would come from her and amazingly, he heard her music. Little by little, he listened and absorbed the orchestra's music and realized it's majestic beauty. Once the orchestra was done, he joined he the applauses. Unknown to him, Crono caught him watching the gray mare in awe. Before the audience started to leave, he took a hold of Cloud and lead him onstage. Security almost caught them off if Crono didn't slip a few bits into the guard's coats. "Octavia!" called out Crono. Dumbfounded, the mare looked at Crono in confusion, wondering how he knew her name. "It's me Crono Cerberus! You played for my family countless times when you were only a little filly? My family gave you the fame you currently have in your name?" included the unicorn. "I'm sorry, sir. I believe you have me confused for somepony else" replied the mare. Without warning, Crono hoisted Octavia with his forelegs, and spun her while singing "Ring Around The Rosy". Once set back down, Octavia focused herself on Crono until her eyes opened wide with a huge smile on her face. "CRONO!!!" shouted the happy mare. She quickly wrapped Crono in a hug and squeezed tightly. "It's been so long!" continued the mare. "Too long if you ask me." replied the stallion. "Sweet Celestia! Time sure has been great with you! Your music has improved but not as much as your looks!" "Oh, you! You're still a charmer like before." blushed the gray coated mare. "Before I forget, I'd like you to meet my adopted son Cloud." said Crono as he pulled in Cloud. Nervously, Cloud tried to avoid eye contact by hiding his eyes behind his mane. "He LOVED your music performance and started to get into classical" added the unicorn. "In fact, he mentioned to me that he wanted to have a musical chat over some dinner later." "Oh well, that sounds splendid." replied Octavia. "Great then! Cloud will be seeing you at your favorite place.' said Crono. "You know me so well" said Octavia as she walked away. Just as she was out of earshot, Cloud lashed out at Crono. "What was that for?!" "Don't play dumb. I saw you staring at her during her performance." retorted Crono. Unable to comeback, Cloud stayed frozen. Soon enough he looked at his stepfather and spoke up. "Thanks...." "You can thank me later. Because right now, you need a complete change up." "A what?" questioned Cloud. "Trust me, you'll thank me for it later" answered the stepfather. With Cloud behind him, Crono guided the young Pegasus into the shopping districts of Canterlot and began the transformation. The first store they entered was the mane stylist. "Crono! What are you doing here so late? " asked the cosmetologist. "My son needs his mane cut and BADLY" joked the unicorn. "Oh ho ho NO! No pair of cutting tools are coming towards this mane!" protested Cloud. "You want to impress Octavia or not?" replied Crono. Cloud could not argue with him. Though he had just met Octavia, he really wanted to impress her. So much that he would be willing to change. Sulking, he moved to the chair and muttered "Let's get this over with" "So, Sugar, how would you like the mane to turn out? I think he'd look great with your usual" said the cosmetologist. "Hold on, how about you try this......" said Crono as he whispered instructions into her ear. Cloud tried to come closer and hear what his mane will look like, but Crono just pushed him back down into his seat. Though nervous, Cloud withstood the cutting. Little by little, he would watch as his mane started to gather on the ground below him. Primarily he noticed that his face was receiving a draft of wind and he felt the temperature from his neck and head cool down. The haircut must have taken at the very least, twenty minutes. "You're all done, Sugar" announced the mare as she spun Cloud to a mirror. "Whoa." said Cloud. Originally, Cloud's mane covered his eyes and reached the bottom on his neck. He no longer looked like a mare with a terrible mane (which explains why he'd get into fights). While his new appearance still sported long bangs over his eyes, one only reached eye length while the surrounding lengths cut shorter enough to make his jade eyes appear brighter. Plenty of the messy facial hair he sported had been removed, which made him appear younger. "I think this will cover the expenses and maybe some spare spending." said Crono as he passed a bag of bits to the mane stylist. "Come on, son. You need some more changes before your date." added the unicorn. A quick trot through the streets and they arrived at the tailor's. The elderly stallion working instantly recognized Crono and went to attend. "A new suit sire?" questioned the aged stallion. "Yes, but not for me, for my boy here." answered Crono. With orders given, the tailor measured Cloud's body lengths, body, forelegs, neck, and back. With impressive speed for an old timer, he dashed to the storage and reappeared with multiple shirts. Cloud tried them all, most being too big and a few being tight. One red shirt though fit perfectly nice and snug. Crono levitated a coat and black tie from a nearby section and passed it to Cloud which also fit well. "Hey, not bad!" said Cloud as he looked in a mirror. "Hm. Something's missing. " commented the tailor. A fedora soon floated and gently landed on Cloud's head finishing look. "Perfect!" said Cloud. Swaggering himself into the carriage, the stallion eagerly awaited his stepfather. Once the carriage started to move, the smile on Cloud's face turned into a panicked hesitation. "On second thought, this date isn't such a good idea! Let's go back!" panicked Cloud. "No way. Octavia would find and kill you for bailing on her!" commented Crono. A look of fear covered Cloud's face while Chrono only chuckled. Once arriving at their destination Chrono shoved Cloud out of the carriage and locked it before he jumped back in. "NO! PLEASE! I'M TOO YOUNG!.......AND ATTRACTIVE!" begged the Pegasus. The tiny window on the carriage door opened for a second and in a haste, Cloud tried to stuff his head in but was shoved back out by his stepfather. In his stepfather's hoof's wake was a bag containing money. "Have fun!" said the happy unicorn as h left in the carriage. Stricken by fear, Cloud debated to either fly away or push forward. Just before he flapped his wings, he looked at the suit Chrono got him, as well as the haircut. He couldn't allow his fear to take control of him he thought. Especially when he was so full of himself just earlier. With, the bag of bits in his coat, he marched into the restaurant. Cloud paid no attention to the other ponies inside and scanned the room for his date. In the far corner he spotted her. As she continued to stay still and appear bored, he started to walk over to her. As he nearly reached her, he realized that he had no idea how to act in front of her. At the last second, he thought of how to speak. "Good evening, beautiful." said Cloud. "Excuse me sir but do I know you?" questioned the mare. "No, but you ARE familiar with my father" answered Cloud. "Father?......Cloud? Is that you?" asked Octavia in astonishment. "The one and only" grinned the stallion as he made eye contact. "Oh my.....you look....amazing" "Oh hush silly. YOU'RE the one that looks amazing" replied Cloud. Immediately Octavia blushed and smiled at him. Taking a seat across from her, Cloud continued to imitate his father's charm. His eyes then widened once he realized his actions. The entire time Crono had pushed him to grow up and act more maturely, he only shrugged it off and continued his reckless behavior. He now realized that Crono only wanted him to join the lavish lifestyle he enjoyed. Regret soon filled Cloud's mind and resent everything he took for granted. Octavia soon caught the look of disdain on the colt's face to which Cloud only played out as hunger. "I'll be right back I got to go wash up" said the Pegasus. Once in the bathroom, Cloud washed his face and reassured himself that the date is going without a hitch. "Yes, it is" said Crono. In reaction Cloud swung his left hoof behind him only to himself held down by his stepfather. "Ha ha. I taught you that and I know how to defend from it. But I commend you for effort. "Hey Crono? I'm sorry for all of those times I was being careless. I now know why you wanted me to grow up and-" "You can cut that a little short cause come on, a gentlecolt doesn't make a lady wait." "Oh Celestia! You're right!" said the colt as he darted for the exit. "But wait, this place will close soon!" "I think I can..... persuade the manager?" reassured the unicorn. A smile on his face, he returned to Octavia and continued to enjoy the night with her. Their evening meals as they recalled were as memorable as their time together. Though the most memorable moment or moments were when they spend time simply talking. Once their check had arrived Cloud retrieved the bag of bits from his coat and paid for them but not before reading the writing on the bottom of the bill. "Kiss her!" His face reddened once he Octavia questioned why he stood so still. He played it off as a change in temperature and escorted her out and into a taxi. Arriving at her house, he walked her to her door and gave the mare a warm hug. Just as their eyes met, his memory of the bill came to him. He grew nervous and hesitant the longer he stared into her violet eyes. With steadiness, he leaned in and gave her a light peck on the lips. The mare's eyes became half closed as she breathed on his neck and firmly planted her lips on his. Cloud closed his eyes with Octavia and shared with her their passionate kiss. At this moment, neither of them want to separate and ruin their happiness, though they did eventually to regain their breathing. "Until next time....." breathed Cloud. A beautiful smile later, Octavia entered her house with her tail gently brushing against Cloud's muzzle. Shakily, Cloud walked back to the street and found Crono waiting for him with the carriage beside him. "So.....how'd the date go?" huffed the unicorn. "Date? More like the best night ever!" answered the happy Pegasus. Tying Loose Ends"Cloud, wake up. Hey Cloud come on" said Crono as he shook his stepson. Mumbling from his awakening, Cloud groggily woke up. Right after, Crono looked to Octavia and woke her up as well (she fell asleep right after Cloud did). "We're home" added the unicorn. The mansion they lived in was awe inspiringly high. Aside from the huge trees that lead to the front doors, numbers of fountains surrounded the property and custom stone arches structured the foundations. Jaw dropping views from the uphill home granted plentiful views. Wether the sight was meant to see clearly onto Ponyville, Cloudsdale or Phillydelphia, it had a beutiful view. With the bodyguards opening the doors to their castle-like mansion, Crono and Cloud were greeted by their butlers and maids. "Oh we are so happy and joyus that you have returned!" said the head butler. "I can tell you are" commented Crono. "I hope the authorities didn't trouble you too much sire?" continued the elderly stallion. "Nah fossil took care of himself back there." commented Cloud. "Oh yes of coarse, how could I concern myself with that? Master Crono can easily handle himself" Before the conversation was able to continue, a mare wearing a maid uniform had rushed herself too quickly and crashed into Cloud's side, toppling the both of them to the ground. "Mr. Cloud I'm so sorry! I heard you returned and I wanted to see for myself. Forgive me!" panicked the earth pony. "Its quite alright. No harm no foul play" chuckled the Pegasus. As the earth pony rose up, Cloud noticed that her hindquarters were aimed directly at him. One quick glance and he found himself staring right at her flanks. The Pegasus found himself unable hide his reddening face from Octavia. Angered she caught a grip of his coat with her teeth and soon started to pull him away from the surrounding servants. "Be easy this time Tavi! He couldn't get out of bed the last time you had him!" guffawed Crono. "Help me Pops!" panicked Cloud before a closing door echoed in the building. "Sir, I do not enjoy being the bearer of bad news but some unhappy "business" ponies arrived earlier today." stated a maid pony. "Did they leave anything behind?" questioned the unicorn. "Yes, but we placed them in your office." answered the butler. With his information taken to mind Crono traveled up to his second floor office mansion. In his office his viewed large stacks of paperwork. The unicorn let out a large sign. "This will be a long day" spoke Crono. For what seemed to be an eternity, Crono reviewed the stacks of legal documents concerning his businesses. Taxes seemed to enjoy him a bit too much. "I REALLY need an assistant" groaned Crono. A large splash of water sounded outside his window. A quick peak was all he used to see Octavia and Cloud in their swimming pool. Octavia's smile made her look much different than earlier. "Youth..." yawned Crono. Before he could wake himself, he dozed off his muzzle over the paperwork. "Mister Crono!" yelled a panicked voice entering his office. The suddenness had snapped Crono from his slumber and caught his full attention. "The High.......Moon Family....... isn't gone they.......are still up...and..." huffed the exhausted Pegasus. "Whoa there champ. First catch your breathe and then say what you need to say." replied the unicorn. After a minute of calming himself, the Pegasus regained control of his heart and explained away.. "The High Moon Family has one survivor left. He escaped the house fire and is getting ready to retaliate" spoke the subordinate. "The High Moon Family?!" roared the Crono. The unicorn turned quickly and opened the windowsill. "CLOUD GET UP HERE NOW!!!" bellowed the angered Crono. only a moment passed before Cloud flew up to the window. "What's going on? questioned Cloud. "Remember those "associates" we once met back in Baltimare?" said Crono. "Yeah, they couldn't take the heat" answered the Cloud. "One actually survived it." commented the messenger. "That's not good...." yelped Cloud. "Which is exactly why I will be ending it!" stated Crono. After moving a ceramic bust from his desk to a bookcase, the wall beside them had slid open and revealed an array of weaponry. "Pops that's crazy talk!" complained Cloud. "You just figured that out? When I plan on taking out an annoying group I make sure they're ALL gone!" retorted Crono. "You could just hire some others to whack them....You don't have to do it yourself!" stated Cloud, obviously trying to convince his stepfather to take another choice. With every attempt, Crono only became more determined to rid themselves of their problem. He knew the unicorn tried for years to settle their feuds with the High Moon Family but they would never budge or pay attention to the nonviolent approaches. Cloud himself knew how mentally twisted they were and how easily they would threaten others to have their ways. "Well, I can't stop you from chasing after them. So the least I can do is back you up so you wont get yourself killed quickly." said Cloud as he slipped on his prized bracelets. "Thank you son" commented Crono. "Citrus Glide, do you know where he was last seen?" questioned Crono. "Our sources tell us he was planning a comeback outside of Ponyville" answered the messenger. "Alert the offensive team" said Cloud. "Understood sir" replied Glide while exiting the room. "Cloud you do know what you're getting yourself into right?" questioned Crono. "Yes, I know what they've done to innocents and I don't care how "dangerous" they are" countered the Pegasus. "When you violate their innocence you have gone way too far and don't deserve to continue living." "That's my boy!" elated Crono. With their henchmen armed to the teeth and their destination set they went onward to Ponyville. Cloud's heart ran a million beats per minute and he began to sweat profusely. He knew he hadn't gotten into a fight in a long time but he knew what he had to do. Should he not wipe out the remaining High Moon Family survivor, Canterlot will plunge into violence and uncontrollable disaster. The number of individuals they've harmed was staggering enough but upon return, that was something that Cloud didn't want to find out. Crono noticed one of their guards was unsubtly nervous. "At ease big guy" spoke Crono. "This wont be the last fight you'll be in" added Cloud. "Aren't you at all nervous that we're heading into their place? I mean there could be traps laid out for us! " explained the uneasy pony. "Traps? Out here?" questioned Crono. "How long has that High Moon been out?" chimed the unicorn. "Well we tried to take them out last week. So unless we rounded up all of them but one, a week maybe?" theorized Cloud. A train of thought enveloped Crono. Did he get all of The High Moon? Did he miss one? But most importantly, were they blindly entering a trap? "I really believe we should check for traps or at least road hazards!" panicked the broken pony. Before he could think anymore, a sudden force from below their carriage shoved them upward with a severe burst of fire. Cloud woke up in a daze, unable to see with the black smoke emanating from the burning carriage. He tried to call for Crono but his voice was only a silent rasp. Arising, he moved away from the warmth, careful not to trip. Once he was sure he was away from the wreck, he cleaned his face with his lucky bandana. To his horror his associates lay dead, bloodied from the carriage's shrapnel, and burning from the ball of fire that erupted. Fear soon stuck the Pegasus. Despite the burning pain all over his body, he dashed to the wreckage frantically searching for his father. "Dad?! Pops?! Fossil?! Crono?!" called the panicked pony. With no response, tears began escaping his eyes. "No...No...NO!" bellowed Cloud. He continued to search amongst the dead bodies for Crono. Along the way he discovered a few other survivors who joined in searching for their leader. "Sir....I think found him..." said one of his familiars. Cloud soon stood over Crono. He laid on his side, his body charred. He wasn't moving, and neither was he breathing. "Father...." wheezed Cloud. His hoof met his father's. "Dad...get up. We got to get you medical help..." his voice breaking. "Come on....stop playing around....Octavia is going to be worried sick...." "We got company." alerted a companion. Cloud ignored his statement and only cried more while holding his father. "Sir, we have to move!" As much as he tried to pry Crono and Cloud apart, Cloud refused and only held on tighter. With that they found them selves surrounded by armed patrols. "This is gonna look REALLY good on our pay!" commented one of them. Cloud was oblivious to what was happening. "Get that little filly away from that stiff!" said another. At that moment, Cloud became fully aware of what was happening. He gently lay down his father as a sword was drawn unto him. He backed up counting how many steps he took. "So, YOU'RE Cloud huh?" said the enemy. Cloud didn't speak. Nor did he raise his head. "I asked you a question!" roared the foe, swinging the sword's hilt to Cloud's muzzle. Before it contacted, Cloud dodged and leaped onto him, his teeth tearing into his attacker's neck. Like a mad beast he bit repeatedly and stomped his hooves to his face, cursing in the process. In his blind fury, a mallet connected to Cloud's head, knocking him back and away from his overkill. He tried to arise and swing again but multiple guards came to him and savagely beat him with mallets, batons and hammers. One of them clenched Cloud by his mane, pulling him up and readying his axe. Before the axe came down a muzzle full of blood escaped him. Soon enough a sword tore through his body. Behind him stood Crono, his horn glowing the same color as the aura around the sword. "GET THE BUCK AWAY FROM MY FAMILY!!!" bellowed the unicorn. His chance ready for the taking, Cloud grasped the axe and swung at the enemy guards; killing one of them. A rumble soon proceeded and the enemy guards lay dead. One however tried to crawl away to which Crono halted. "Trust me, I'm not in the mood for 20 questions" stated Crono. He jammed the sword to the ground before the injured guard. "WHERE is he?" As a response, the injured pony spat at Crono. Cloud withdrew the sword from the ground. He went to the fire and allowed it to redden with heat. Returning, he displayed it to the hostage. "Where?" said Cloud. His question unanswered, Cloud hurled the sword into the pony's back hoof. The silence around them was broken by pained outcries. "Be thankful that you won't bleed out" chuckled the Pegasus. After a few more stabbings at non vital areas, the tear stained earth pony confessed. "That's more like it" said Crono. Before the earth pony could collect himself, he began to be dragged away to the fire by Crono's allies. The night time muteness then sounded with the pained cries of being burned alive. "We should probably get back up" said Cloud. "No, those guards not showing up will stir up suspicion. By then we'd lose them" corrected Crono. Outside the small hut they readied for the attack. "Just head in and kill anypony that ain't us?" questioned Cloud. "Yeah make sure they don't get back up" answered Crono. "Everypony ready?" With nods from their four remaining companions, they stampeded to the entrance. From the inside, several adversaries took up their weapons and retaliated. Amongst the struggle Silverstreak, The High Moon survivor escaped into another room. He didn't go unnoticed though. Cloud shut the door behind him. "What a coward" commented Cloud. Before exiting out the window, Silverstreak eyed Cloud carefully. Just then he shut the window and locked it. "Says you" retorted Silver. The unicorn licked his muzzle and looked at Cloud with hungry eyes. "I'm gonna make you pay for what you did to them!" shouted Cloud. "THEY LOVED IT!" replied Silverstreak. "YOU BUCKING SICKO!" yelled Cloud as he flew at Silverstreak. Just before he contacted him Silverstreak leaned away, dodging the angered Pegasus. Silverstreak then grasped Cloud by his mid section and slammed him against the wall. Cloud tried to recollect his bearing until he saw Silverstreak levitate and set a blade to his neck. Cloud froze at it's cold touch. The unicorn breathed on Cloud's neck let a bit of his saliva drip on the young Pegasus. "How many foals have you violated?" growled Cloud. "Too many to count" answered Silverstreak. At that moment the unicorn pressed the knife to Cloud's neck and in a split second, Cloud swung one of his front hooves to Silverstreak's horn. His sleeve produced a long thin blade which in turn severed Silverstreak from his horn. Blood covered the both of them and shards of aura spouted from where Silverstreak's horn used to be. The sensitive nerves in his horn stump jolted and jerked from the rush of blood and pain. Silverstreak couldn't sound any cries of agony due to the mind numbing pain he felt. Cloud knew enough from Crono that a severed horn can cause a slow and painful fatality without the use of medical help. A sneer on his face, he lowered himself to the pained unicorn. "You feel that? That's nothing to what you did to your victims." "Even I wouldn't wish that upon him" commented a voice. Turning himself, Cloud noted Crono standing at the door and looking away from the horrible sight upon him. "He deserves it. Maybe even worse." remarked Cloud. "Sir, the area is clear but the explosion probably alerted nearby civilians and the fire will attract attention." sounded an ally. "Burn this place to the ground" ordered the unicorn. "Right away, sir" sounded the other only companion. With nearby flammable cleaning products and cooking materials, the whole hut was readied for its fate. "Sunrise will be here soon" stated Crono. He passed his personal lighter to Cloud. The Pegasus looked at the small building and remembered Silverstreak. "There's a special place in Tartarus for you" thought Cloud as he set the hut aflame. The Rich Stallion and The Homeless Colt"I'll ask you again, what is your name?" asked the frustrated guard. Crono only sat in his seat and gave the interrogator his cocky smile. Frustration and impatience covered the guard's face. Soon enough, he was almost ready to attack the unicorn. "Lay a hoof on me and I will see to it that you hang your armor forever." said Crono. As the interrogator continued to ask Crono questions, the unicorn drifted off into lost train of thought. "Humph. Can't believe how much has happened since we've started to become popular in Canterlot and to think how it all started, with Cloud. " "Do you have any spare change I can have sir?" said a young colt. "Ugh, NO! GET AWAY FROM ME!" barked Crono. With his magic, Crono lifted the Pegasus off the ground and placed him into a dumpster. "Peasant." commented the unicorn before leaving. Down along the long roads of Canterlot, Crono entered a diner and sat near a window. While looking outside he couldn't help but realize how much had happened. "Damn it Uncle Phobos...... if you never did that stupid act, I would have never ended the family name..." "May I take your order sir?" asked a waitress. "Huh? Oh yeah, sure. Some coffee and hash browns." replied the unicorn. After the waitress had taken his order he was left alone to ponder. "Alright, lets think up what has happened recently. Uncle Phobos offed my pops for the family fortune, I offed him in his sleep and took all the values he worked SO HARD for. That and I blew up the mansion and the crooked authorities who "couldn't find any hard evidence......If family betrays you, everyone else will too" Ignoring the amount of time he took to enjoy his meal, Cronos could not help but notice that nightfall had arrived. Leaving a tip behind or the waitress, the unicorn stallion had left the diner and scanned the streets. "Hmm. Maybe there's a motel nearby. At least for one night." said Crono to himself. For a few blocks, Crono walked through the shadowy streets of Canterlot. He couldn't help but feel that the darkness hid something from him. Something alive. Disbelieving his thought, he carried on not paying attention to the large shadow moving towards him. From behind, Crono felt a force push him to the ground. Before standing, he felt the same force shove his head to the ground. A hoof quickly went through his coat and from there his wallet was taken. "HEY, THA'T'S MINE!" growled Crono. Before he could react and try to take back his property, the mugger struck Crono in the face and ran off into the darkness. "Hey! Mister are you alright?" questioned a voice. It was the Pegasus from earlier. "Yeah, runt only wanted my wallet and took off with it." commented Crono. "I can get it back, be back in a bit!" said the pony. With great acceleration, the Pegasus flew into the darkness and Crono stared into it. A homeless colt that he mistreated, went off to retrieve his money that he desperately needed. How could that colt look over the incident that happened only hours before, and help without asking In a flash, the Pegasus returned, with the wallet in hoof. "Its all inside. I didn't take ANYTHING or looked at anything. Promise." said the pony. "That was pretty quick." said the impressed stallion. "Thank you, sir. Now if you don't mind I will be on my way." said the younger pony while starting to leave. "Hold it!" commanded Crono. "Uh, yes?" asked the dirty Pegasus. "Here's a challenge, if you could fly back to the mugger and take something from him and get back here, before this bag of bits hits the ground, they're all yours." proposed the unicorn. "Sure!" said the excited Pegasus. "Ready, set, GO!" said Crono. Upon his order, the Pegasus flew as hard as he could. In the air the small sack of bits flew and soon enough it started to descend. Just before the bag touched the cement, the homeless colt dashed for it, catching it with only a spilt second to spare. In his left hoof, he held the cap that the mugger wore. Soon after he confirmed the Pegasus his spoils, he spoke to him. "What's your name young colt?" "My name is Cloud but the ponies of Canterlot also call me Dust" answered the dirty Pegasus. "Cloud Dust?" questioned the stallion. "And to think, that we hung out everyday after that day." said Crono in the interrogation room. "Poor kid lost his parents to some fool with a knife. Lucky for him I took him under my wing. Talent shouldn't be wasted anyways....... Kid since then has ad my back every time I needed somepony." thought Crono. The door that stood in the way behind the guards swung open and in came Cloud Dust and Octavia. "Alright, fossil let's get you home." said Cloud with a smile. "HEY! Who let you two in?! This is an interrogation! Get out!" said one of the guards. "No, you get out, before WE have YOU in that chair." said Octavia as she passed the a release form. "HOW DID YOU-" started one of the guards. Before he could finish, Crono stood and walked out of the room alongside Octavia. Just as Cloud turned to leave, he sared at the guards and opened his coat, revealing his family emblem. Fear struck the two guards and as Cloud inched closer, the guards inched farther until they met the wall. He raised a hoof to them, to which they flinched. "Exactly, KEEP IT THAT WAY!" commented the Pegasus as he left the room.
The Grand Galloping GalaWithin the carriage, Chrono and Cloud awaited their arrival to the Gala. A smirk spread across Cloud's muzzle. "Can't wait can you?" questioned Chrono. "Not one bit" replied the Pegasus. The moment he noticed the carriage stopped moving, his smirk turned into a full smile. "We're here." breathed Chrono. Before either of them had exited, two large earth pony stallions exited the carriage and scanned their surroundings. Once they believed the area to be safe, Chrono and Cloud followed. Behind them two more stallions (unicorn) had followed. "Mm....It's going to be a great night isn't it?" commented Chrono. "The BEST!" replied Cloud. Upon reaching the front gates of the castle, Cloud eagerly tried to brush past the Royal Guards only to have them point their spears at him. The second the guards presented themselves as threatening, the two earth pony stallions jumped in-between Cloud and the armed guards. "Dear peers, please forgive my son's eagerness. He is after all quite excited to be at this great Equestrian event." announced Chrono as he opened his coat. As the guards focused on Chrono they recognized the emblem in his coat and quickly lowered their weapons. "Terribly sorry, Sir. Please forgive our.....unprofessional greeting and enjoy the Gala." said one of the guards. "Thank you. Have a pleasant evening" replied Chrono. Once they entered the Gala, Cloud searched frantically for the dance floor. "You go off and find her, but please do not start anything." said Chrono. "I will, thanks!" replied Cloud with an earth pony and unicorn stallion following him. "Ah, the youth. What potential they have now a days." said Chrono. "Now then..." added Chrono. "Time for me to have some fun" "Yum, these d'oeuvres are tastier than I thought they were. " thought Chrono as he chewed away at the sweets. Before his eyes, he recognized a white coated stallion walking towards him. "Hm... a removed royal COULD be a huge asset to us..." Picking his pace up, he noticed a whited coat mare alongside Blueblood and soon wondered her name. Before he reached them though he witnessed Blueblood force the white coated mare to use her shawl to cover a puddle for him. This in mind, he lumbered towards him. Just before going passed him, Chrono brushed his shoulder towards Blueblood bumping him. A look of disdain on his face, Blueblood commented to Chrono "Heathen!" Quickly turning to him, Chrono replied to the royal "Dear Celestia! You must be intelligent to know how to talk! " A look of shock and anger lay on Blueblood's face. "Do you know who you are speaking to?!" "No am I supposed to know?" replied Chrono. "I am Prince Blueblood! Nephew of Celestia! I can have you-" "And I am supposed to be impressed by that because?" interrupted Chrono. "Insolent pest! One more word out of you and I will have you- " "Sentenced to listening to you all day long? I wouldn't even wish that upon you in a million years." said Chrono as he walked past him with a smirk on his face. "Oh yes, before your handlers put you back into your cage, learn to treat a beautiful mare right." commented Chrono as he left the room. With his associate earth pony and unicorn, at his sides he searched along the crowds of ponies to find Cloud. Amongst the crowds of ponies he spotted Cloud alongside Octavia. Before reaching them he noticed two Pegasus on the other side of the room he recognized all too well. Cautiously he continued to Cloud and Octavia. "Are you two enjoying the night?" questioned Chrono. "No, that pink mare has been ruining Octavia's music since before we got here!" commented Cloud. "I don't know if we have to but we might have to cut this night short." said Chrono. "What?! Why?!" protested Cloud. "THEY are here in this room with us" said Chrono as he edged his hoof to the two pegasi. "How did they get in?" questioned Cloud. "I don't know but what I do know is that the second they see us they'll come at us so I suggest we all leave and make this night memorable some other way." replied Chrono. "Sir, they're blocking the doorway." said one of their earth pony associates. "What? They are?" replied Chrono. "An they're coming this way too." said Cloud. Closer and closer the two pegasi inched towards them until the doors leading to the outside swung open and animals scattered into the room. Panic spread throughout the dance floor and amongst the panic the approaching pegasi sidetracked into the panic. "NOW'S OUR CHANCE!" declared Chrono. "Cover yourself Octavia! You can't be seen with us!" said Chrono as he covered her with his coat. "Go on go! I will take care of any that will try to follow you! They'll be more focused on me anyways!" "But-" "JUST GO!" roared Chronos. Obeying his word, Cloud, Octavia and three of their associates had exited amongst the panicked ponies as Chronos and his remaining Unicorn partner stayed and fended off anyone who tried to follow. All until they were both arrested by the Royal Canterlot Guards
Cloud's Coming Of Age"I told you not to stay up for so long" stated Octavia as she noticed Cloud falling in and out of sleep. "Well what can I say, I get paranoid Fossil will do something stupid" commented Cloud. "I thought that was your job" replied Crono. Only moments had passed since Chrono was released from the Royal Guards. Currently, the three of them were being transported back home. For days, Cloud would stay up worrying himself over Crono's safety. Ever since they became family, he's worried about his safety, especially since Crono was older than either Octavia or Cloud. While in their carriage, Cloud laid his head to rest before Octavia. Before fading to sleep, Cloud felt Octavia's hoof move through his ink colored mane. "Octavia..." whispered Cloud as he knocked out. "RAGHHHHH!" groaned Cloud. "You know I hate orchestras!" "Oh, come on Cloud! This is a rare occasion! Neightoven will be played! Much better than those dreadful noises you're always blasting in your room!" said Crono with excitement. "It's called DUPSTEP!" retorted the young colt. Even with the refusal, Crono still held the shiny tickets in front of Cloud with a giddy smile. An eye roll under his long mane later, Cloud gave in. "FINE! I'll go but I won't like it. And I'm going the way I want to go!" barked the Pegasus. While on their way, Crono took a quick look at his adoptive son. "Damn it, Cloud! You've lived with me for years and yet you act like a spoiled brat! You always take everything for granted and you only call for me when you need me to bail you out for something you HAPPILY ADMIT to doing! What's even worse is that you don't respect yourself! I offer to buy you the most expensive clothes in Canterlot and yet you just wear clothes that you get from flea markets! I thought I was helping you by taking you off the streets...." thought the unicorn. The orchestra wasn't anymore pleasure for either of them. While Crono tried to enjoy the music, he couldn't shake off the troubles Cloud kept bringing. Cloud's boredom reached a whole new level. Desperately, he tried to find a distraction from the orchestra. While searching, his attention was caught, not by something but by somepony. Being in the front row, he had a full view of the gray coated, mulberry eyed mare playing the cello. Around him, nothing seemed to have existed to him. His eyes were set and focused on the mare. He saw the pink musical note on her flank and watched her movements as she played her instrument. Carefully, he focused on the musical sounds that would come from her and amazingly, he heard her music. Little by little, he listened and absorbed the orchestra's music and realized it's majestic beauty. Once the orchestra was done, he joined he the applauses. Unknown to him, Crono caught him watching the gray mare in awe. Before the audience started to leave, he took a hold of Cloud and lead him onstage. Security almost caught them off if Crono didn't slip a few bits into the guard's coats. "Octavia!" called out Crono. Dumbfounded, the mare looked at Crono in confusion, wondering how he knew her name. "It's me Crono Cerberus! You played for my family countless times when you were only a little filly? My family gave you the fame you currently have in your name?" included the unicorn. "I'm sorry, sir. I believe you have me confused for somepony else" replied the mare. Without warning, Crono hoisted Octavia with his forelegs, and spun her while singing "Ring Around The Rosy". Once set back down, Octavia focused herself on Crono until her eyes opened wide with a huge smile on her face. "CRONO!!!" shouted the happy mare. She quickly wrapped Crono in a hug and squeezed tightly. "It's been so long!" continued the mare. "Too long if you ask me." replied the stallion. "Sweet Celestia! Time sure has been great with you! Your music has improved but not as much as your looks!" "Oh, you! You're still a charmer like before." blushed the gray coated mare. "Before I forget, I'd like you to meet my adopted son Cloud." said Crono as he pulled in Cloud. Nervously, Cloud tried to avoid eye contact by hiding his eyes behind his mane. "He LOVED your music performance and started to get into classical" added the unicorn. "In fact, he mentioned to me that he wanted to have a musical chat over some dinner later." "Oh well, that sounds splendid." replied Octavia. "Great then! Cloud will be seeing you at your favorite place.' said Crono. "You know me so well" said Octavia as she walked away. Just as she was out of earshot, Cloud lashed out at Crono. "What was that for?!" "Don't play dumb. I saw you staring at her during her performance." retorted Crono. Unable to comeback, Cloud stayed frozen. Soon enough he looked at his stepfather and spoke up. "Thanks...." "You can thank me later. Because right now, you need a complete change up." "A what?" questioned Cloud. "Trust me, you'll thank me for it later" answered the stepfather. With Cloud behind him, Crono guided the young Pegasus into the shopping districts of Canterlot and began the transformation. The first store they entered was the mane stylist. "Crono! What are you doing here so late? " asked the cosmetologist. "My son needs his mane cut and BADLY" joked the unicorn. "Oh ho ho NO! No pair of cutting tools are coming towards this mane!" protested Cloud. "You want to impress Octavia or not?" replied Crono. Cloud could not argue with him. Though he had just met Octavia, he really wanted to impress her. So much that he would be willing to change. Sulking, he moved to the chair and muttered "Let's get this over with" "So, Sugar, how would you like the mane to turn out? I think he'd look great with your usual" said the cosmetologist. "Hold on, how about you try this......" said Crono as he whispered instructions into her ear. Cloud tried to come closer and hear what his mane will look like, but Crono just pushed him back down into his seat. Though nervous, Cloud withstood the cutting. Little by little, he would watch as his mane started to gather on the ground below him. Primarily he noticed that his face was receiving a draft of wind and he felt the temperature from his neck and head cool down. The haircut must have taken at the very least, twenty minutes. "You're all done, Sugar" announced the mare as she spun Cloud to a mirror. "Whoa." said Cloud. Originally, Cloud's mane covered his eyes and reached the bottom on his neck. He no longer looked like a mare with a terrible mane (which explains why he'd get into fights). While his new appearance still sported long bangs over his eyes, one only reached eye length while the surrounding lengths cut shorter enough to make his jade eyes appear brighter. Plenty of the messy facial hair he sported had been removed, which made him appear younger. "I think this will cover the expenses and maybe some spare spending." said Crono as he passed a bag of bits to the mane stylist. "Come on, son. You need some more changes before your date." added the unicorn. A quick trot through the streets and they arrived at the tailor's. The elderly stallion working instantly recognized Crono and went to attend. "A new suit sire?" questioned the aged stallion. "Yes, but not for me, for my boy here." answered Crono. With orders given, the tailor measured Cloud's body lengths, body, forelegs, neck, and back. With impressive speed for an old timer, he dashed to the storage and reappeared with multiple shirts. Cloud tried them all, most being too big and a few being tight. One red shirt though fit perfectly nice and snug. Crono levitated a coat and black tie from a nearby section and passed it to Cloud which also fit well. "Hey, not bad!" said Cloud as he looked in a mirror. "Hm. Something's missing. " commented the tailor. A fedora soon floated and gently landed on Cloud's head finishing look. "Perfect!" said Cloud. Swaggering himself into the carriage, the stallion eagerly awaited his stepfather. Once the carriage started to move, the smile on Cloud's face turned into a panicked hesitation. "On second thought, this date isn't such a good idea! Let's go back!" panicked Cloud. "No way. Octavia would find and kill you for bailing on her!" commented Crono. A look of fear covered Cloud's face while Chrono only chuckled. Once arriving at their destination Chrono shoved Cloud out of the carriage and locked it before he jumped back in. "NO! PLEASE! I'M TOO YOUNG!.......AND ATTRACTIVE!" begged the Pegasus. The tiny window on the carriage door opened for a second and in a haste, Cloud tried to stuff his head in but was shoved back out by his stepfather. In his stepfather's hoof's wake was a bag containing money. "Have fun!" said the happy unicorn as h left in the carriage. Stricken by fear, Cloud debated to either fly away or push forward. Just before he flapped his wings, he looked at the suit Chrono got him, as well as the haircut. He couldn't allow his fear to take control of him he thought. Especially when he was so full of himself just earlier. With, the bag of bits in his coat, he marched into the restaurant. Cloud paid no attention to the other ponies inside and scanned the room for his date. In the far corner he spotted her. As she continued to stay still and appear bored, he started to walk over to her. As he nearly reached her, he realized that he had no idea how to act in front of her. At the last second, he thought of how to speak. "Good evening, beautiful." said Cloud. "Excuse me sir but do I know you?" questioned the mare. "No, but you ARE familiar with my father" answered Cloud. "Father?......Cloud? Is that you?" asked Octavia in astonishment. "The one and only" grinned the stallion as he made eye contact. "Oh my.....you look....amazing" "Oh hush silly. YOU'RE the one that looks amazing" replied Cloud. Immediately Octavia blushed and smiled at him. Taking a seat across from her, Cloud continued to imitate his father's charm. His eyes then widened once he realized his actions. The entire time Crono had pushed him to grow up and act more maturely, he only shrugged it off and continued his reckless behavior. He now realized that Crono only wanted him to join the lavish lifestyle he enjoyed. Regret soon filled Cloud's mind and resent everything he took for granted. Octavia soon caught the look of disdain on the colt's face to which Cloud only played out as hunger. "I'll be right back I got to go wash up" said the Pegasus. Once in the bathroom, Cloud washed his face and reassured himself that the date is going without a hitch. "Yes, it is" said Crono. In reaction Cloud swung his left hoof behind him only to himself held down by his stepfather. "Ha ha. I taught you that and I know how to defend from it. But I commend you for effort. "Hey Crono? I'm sorry for all of those times I was being careless. I now know why you wanted me to grow up and-" "You can cut that a little short cause come on, a gentlecolt doesn't make a lady wait." "Oh Celestia! You're right!" said the colt as he darted for the exit. "But wait, this place will close soon!" "I think I can..... persuade the manager?" reassured the unicorn. A smile on his face, he returned to Octavia and continued to enjoy the night with her. Their evening meals as they recalled were as memorable as their time together. Though the most memorable moment or moments were when they spend time simply talking. Once their check had arrived Cloud retrieved the bag of bits from his coat and paid for them but not before reading the writing on the bottom of the bill. "Kiss her!" His face reddened once he Octavia questioned why he stood so still. He played it off as a change in temperature and escorted her out and into a taxi. Arriving at her house, he walked her to her door and gave the mare a warm hug. Just as their eyes met, his memory of the bill came to him. He grew nervous and hesitant the longer he stared into her violet eyes. With steadiness, he leaned in and gave her a light peck on the lips. The mare's eyes became half closed as she breathed on his neck and firmly planted her lips on his. Cloud closed his eyes with Octavia and shared with her their passionate kiss. At this moment, neither of them want to separate and ruin their happiness, though they did eventually to regain their breathing. "Until next time....." breathed Cloud. A beautiful smile later, Octavia entered her house with her tail gently brushing against Cloud's muzzle. Shakily, Cloud walked back to the street and found Crono waiting for him with the carriage beside him. "So.....how'd the date go?" huffed the unicorn. "Date? More like the best night ever!" answered the happy Pegasus.
Tying Loose Ends"Cloud, wake up. Hey Cloud come on" said Crono as he shook his stepson. Mumbling from his awakening, Cloud groggily woke up. Right after, Crono looked to Octavia and woke her up as well (she fell asleep right after Cloud did). "We're home" added the unicorn. The mansion they lived in was awe inspiringly high. Aside from the huge trees that lead to the front doors, numbers of fountains surrounded the property and custom stone arches structured the foundations. Jaw dropping views from the uphill home granted plentiful views. Wether the sight was meant to see clearly onto Ponyville, Cloudsdale or Phillydelphia, it had a beutiful view. With the bodyguards opening the doors to their castle-like mansion, Crono and Cloud were greeted by their butlers and maids. "Oh we are so happy and joyus that you have returned!" said the head butler. "I can tell you are" commented Crono. "I hope the authorities didn't trouble you too much sire?" continued the elderly stallion. "Nah fossil took care of himself back there." commented Cloud. "Oh yes of coarse, how could I concern myself with that? Master Crono can easily handle himself" Before the conversation was able to continue, a mare wearing a maid uniform had rushed herself too quickly and crashed into Cloud's side, toppling the both of them to the ground. "Mr. Cloud I'm so sorry! I heard you returned and I wanted to see for myself. Forgive me!" panicked the earth pony. "Its quite alright. No harm no foul play" chuckled the Pegasus. As the earth pony rose up, Cloud noticed that her hindquarters were aimed directly at him. One quick glance and he found himself staring right at her flanks. The Pegasus found himself unable hide his reddening face from Octavia. Angered she caught a grip of his coat with her teeth and soon started to pull him away from the surrounding servants. "Be easy this time Tavi! He couldn't get out of bed the last time you had him!" guffawed Crono. "Help me Pops!" panicked Cloud before a closing door echoed in the building. "Sir, I do not enjoy being the bearer of bad news but some unhappy "business" ponies arrived earlier today." stated a maid pony. "Did they leave anything behind?" questioned the unicorn. "Yes, but we placed them in your office." answered the butler. With his information taken to mind Crono traveled up to his second floor office mansion. In his office his viewed large stacks of paperwork. The unicorn let out a large sign. "This will be a long day" spoke Crono. For what seemed to be an eternity, Crono reviewed the stacks of legal documents concerning his businesses. Taxes seemed to enjoy him a bit too much. "I REALLY need an assistant" groaned Crono. A large splash of water sounded outside his window. A quick peak was all he used to see Octavia and Cloud in their swimming pool. Octavia's smile made her look much different than earlier. "Youth..." yawned Crono. Before he could wake himself, he dozed off his muzzle over the paperwork. "Mister Crono!" yelled a panicked voice entering his office. The suddenness had snapped Crono from his slumber and caught his full attention. "The High.......Moon Family....... isn't gone they.......are still up...and..." huffed the exhausted Pegasus. "Whoa there champ. First catch your breathe and then say what you need to say." replied the unicorn. After a minute of calming himself, the Pegasus regained control of his heart and explained away.. "The High Moon Family has one survivor left. He escaped the house fire and is getting ready to retaliate" spoke the subordinate. "The High Moon Family?!" roared the Crono. The unicorn turned quickly and opened the windowsill. "CLOUD GET UP HERE NOW!!!" bellowed the angered Crono. only a moment passed before Cloud flew up to the window. "What's going on? questioned Cloud. "Remember those "associates" we once met back in Baltimare?" said Crono. "Yeah, they couldn't take the heat" answered the Cloud. "One actually survived it." commented the messenger. "That's not good...." yelped Cloud. "Which is exactly why I will be ending it!" stated Crono. After moving a ceramic bust from his desk to a bookcase, the wall beside them had slid open and revealed an array of weaponry. "Pops that's crazy talk!" complained Cloud. "You just figured that out? When I plan on taking out an annoying group I make sure they're ALL gone!" retorted Crono. "You could just hire some others to whack them....You don't have to do it yourself!" stated Cloud, obviously trying to convince his stepfather to take another choice. With every attempt, Crono only became more determined to rid themselves of their problem. He knew the unicorn tried for years to settle their feuds with the High Moon Family but they would never budge or pay attention to the nonviolent approaches. Cloud himself knew how mentally twisted they were and how easily they would threaten others to have their ways. "Well, I can't stop you from chasing after them. So the least I can do is back you up so you wont get yourself killed quickly." said Cloud as he slipped on his prized bracelets. "Thank you son" commented Crono. "Citrus Glide, do you know where he was last seen?" questioned Crono. "Our sources tell us he was planning a comeback outside of Ponyville" answered the messenger. "Alert the offensive team" said Cloud. "Understood sir" replied Glide while exiting the room. "Cloud you do know what you're getting yourself into right?" questioned Crono. "Yes, I know what they've done to innocents and I don't care how "dangerous" they are" countered the Pegasus. "When you violate their innocence you have gone way too far and don't deserve to continue living." "That's my boy!" elated Crono. With their henchmen armed to the teeth and their destination set they went onward to Ponyville. Cloud's heart ran a million beats per minute and he began to sweat profusely. He knew he hadn't gotten into a fight in a long time but he knew what he had to do. Should he not wipe out the remaining High Moon Family survivor, Canterlot will plunge into violence and uncontrollable disaster. The number of individuals they've harmed was staggering enough but upon return, that was something that Cloud didn't want to find out. Crono noticed one of their guards was unsubtly nervous. "At ease big guy" spoke Crono. "This wont be the last fight you'll be in" added Cloud. "Aren't you at all nervous that we're heading into their place? I mean there could be traps laid out for us! " explained the uneasy pony. "Traps? Out here?" questioned Crono. "How long has that High Moon been out?" chimed the unicorn. "Well we tried to take them out last week. So unless we rounded up all of them but one, a week maybe?" theorized Cloud. A train of thought enveloped Crono. Did he get all of The High Moon? Did he miss one? But most importantly, were they blindly entering a trap? "I really believe we should check for traps or at least road hazards!" panicked the broken pony. Before he could think anymore, a sudden force from below their carriage shoved them upward with a severe burst of fire. Cloud woke up in a daze, unable to see with the black smoke emanating from the burning carriage. He tried to call for Crono but his voice was only a silent rasp. Arising, he moved away from the warmth, careful not to trip. Once he was sure he was away from the wreck, he cleaned his face with his lucky bandana. To his horror his associates lay dead, bloodied from the carriage's shrapnel, and burning from the ball of fire that erupted. Fear soon stuck the Pegasus. Despite the burning pain all over his body, he dashed to the wreckage frantically searching for his father. "Dad?! Pops?! Fossil?! Crono?!" called the panicked pony. With no response, tears began escaping his eyes. "No...No...NO!" bellowed Cloud. He continued to search amongst the dead bodies for Crono. Along the way he discovered a few other survivors who joined in searching for their leader. "Sir....I think found him..." said one of his familiars. Cloud soon stood over Crono. He laid on his side, his body charred. He wasn't moving, and neither was he breathing. "Father...." wheezed Cloud. His hoof met his father's. "Dad...get up. We got to get you medical help..." his voice breaking. "Come on....stop playing around....Octavia is going to be worried sick...." "We got company." alerted a companion. Cloud ignored his statement and only cried more while holding his father. "Sir, we have to move!" As much as he tried to pry Crono and Cloud apart, Cloud refused and only held on tighter. With that they found them selves surrounded by armed patrols. "This is gonna look REALLY good on our pay!" commented one of them. Cloud was oblivious to what was happening. "Get that little filly away from that stiff!" said another. At that moment, Cloud became fully aware of what was happening. He gently lay down his father as a sword was drawn unto him. He backed up counting how many steps he took. "So, YOU'RE Cloud huh?" said the enemy. Cloud didn't speak. Nor did he raise his head. "I asked you a question!" roared the foe, swinging the sword's hilt to Cloud's muzzle. Before it contacted, Cloud dodged and leaped onto him, his teeth tearing into his attacker's neck. Like a mad beast he bit repeatedly and stomped his hooves to his face, cursing in the process. In his blind fury, a mallet connected to Cloud's head, knocking him back and away from his overkill. He tried to arise and swing again but multiple guards came to him and savagely beat him with mallets, batons and hammers. One of them clenched Cloud by his mane, pulling him up and readying his axe. Before the axe came down a muzzle full of blood escaped him. Soon enough a sword tore through his body. Behind him stood Crono, his horn glowing the same color as the aura around the sword. "GET THE BUCK AWAY FROM MY FAMILY!!!" bellowed the unicorn. His chance ready for the taking, Cloud grasped the axe and swung at the enemy guards; killing one of them. A rumble soon proceeded and the enemy guards lay dead. One however tried to crawl away to which Crono halted. "Trust me, I'm not in the mood for 20 questions" stated Crono. He jammed the sword to the ground before the injured guard. "WHERE is he?" As a response, the injured pony spat at Crono. Cloud withdrew the sword from the ground. He went to the fire and allowed it to redden with heat. Returning, he displayed it to the hostage. "Where?" said Cloud. His question unanswered, Cloud hurled the sword into the pony's back hoof. The silence around them was broken by pained outcries. "Be thankful that you won't bleed out" chuckled the Pegasus. After a few more stabbings at non vital areas, the tear stained earth pony confessed. "That's more like it" said Crono. Before the earth pony could collect himself, he began to be dragged away to the fire by Crono's allies. The night time muteness then sounded with the pained cries of being burned alive. "We should probably get back up" said Cloud. "No, those guards not showing up will stir up suspicion. By then we'd lose them" corrected Crono. Outside the small hut they readied for the attack. "Just head in and kill anypony that ain't us?" questioned Cloud. "Yeah make sure they don't get back up" answered Crono. "Everypony ready?" With nods from their four remaining companions, they stampeded to the entrance. From the inside, several adversaries took up their weapons and retaliated. Amongst the struggle Silverstreak, The High Moon survivor escaped into another room. He didn't go unnoticed though. Cloud shut the door behind him. "What a coward" commented Cloud. Before exiting out the window, Silverstreak eyed Cloud carefully. Just then he shut the window and locked it. "Says you" retorted Silver. The unicorn licked his muzzle and looked at Cloud with hungry eyes. "I'm gonna make you pay for what you did to them!" shouted Cloud. "THEY LOVED IT!" replied Silverstreak. "YOU BUCKING SICKO!" yelled Cloud as he flew at Silverstreak. Just before he contacted him Silverstreak leaned away, dodging the angered Pegasus. Silverstreak then grasped Cloud by his mid section and slammed him against the wall. Cloud tried to recollect his bearing until he saw Silverstreak levitate and set a blade to his neck. Cloud froze at it's cold touch. The unicorn breathed on Cloud's neck let a bit of his saliva drip on the young Pegasus. "How many foals have you violated?" growled Cloud. "Too many to count" answered Silverstreak. At that moment the unicorn pressed the knife to Cloud's neck and in a split second, Cloud swung one of his front hooves to Silverstreak's horn. His sleeve produced a long thin blade which in turn severed Silverstreak from his horn. Blood covered the both of them and shards of aura spouted from where Silverstreak's horn used to be. The sensitive nerves in his horn stump jolted and jerked from the rush of blood and pain. Silverstreak couldn't sound any cries of agony due to the mind numbing pain he felt. Cloud knew enough from Crono that a severed horn can cause a slow and painful fatality without the use of medical help. A sneer on his face, he lowered himself to the pained unicorn. "You feel that? That's nothing to what you did to your victims." "Even I wouldn't wish that upon him" commented a voice. Turning himself, Cloud noted Crono standing at the door and looking away from the horrible sight upon him. "He deserves it. Maybe even worse." remarked Cloud. "Sir, the area is clear but the explosion probably alerted nearby civilians and the fire will attract attention." sounded an ally. "Burn this place to the ground" ordered the unicorn. "Right away, sir" sounded the other only companion. With nearby flammable cleaning products and cooking materials, the whole hut was readied for its fate. "Sunrise will be here soon" stated Crono. He passed his personal lighter to Cloud. The Pegasus looked at the small building and remembered Silverstreak. "There's a special place in Tartarus for you" thought Cloud as he set the hut aflame.
The Rich Stallion and The Homeless Colt"I'll ask you again, what is your name?" asked the frustrated guard. Crono only sat in his seat and gave the interrogator his cocky smile. Frustration and impatience covered the guard's face. Soon enough, he was almost ready to attack the unicorn. "Lay a hoof on me and I will see to it that you hang your armor forever." said Crono. As the interrogator continued to ask Crono questions, the unicorn drifted off into lost train of thought. "Humph. Can't believe how much has happened since we've started to become popular in Canterlot and to think how it all started, with Cloud. " "Do you have any spare change I can have sir?" said a young colt. "Ugh, NO! GET AWAY FROM ME!" barked Crono. With his magic, Crono lifted the Pegasus off the ground and placed him into a dumpster. "Peasant." commented the unicorn before leaving. Down along the long roads of Canterlot, Crono entered a diner and sat near a window. While looking outside he couldn't help but realize how much had happened. "Damn it Uncle Phobos...... if you never did that stupid act, I would have never ended the family name..." "May I take your order sir?" asked a waitress. "Huh? Oh yeah, sure. Some coffee and hash browns." replied the unicorn. After the waitress had taken his order he was left alone to ponder. "Alright, lets think up what has happened recently. Uncle Phobos offed my pops for the family fortune, I offed him in his sleep and took all the values he worked SO HARD for. That and I blew up the mansion and the crooked authorities who "couldn't find any hard evidence......If family betrays you, everyone else will too" Ignoring the amount of time he took to enjoy his meal, Cronos could not help but notice that nightfall had arrived. Leaving a tip behind or the waitress, the unicorn stallion had left the diner and scanned the streets. "Hmm. Maybe there's a motel nearby. At least for one night." said Crono to himself. For a few blocks, Crono walked through the shadowy streets of Canterlot. He couldn't help but feel that the darkness hid something from him. Something alive. Disbelieving his thought, he carried on not paying attention to the large shadow moving towards him. From behind, Crono felt a force push him to the ground. Before standing, he felt the same force shove his head to the ground. A hoof quickly went through his coat and from there his wallet was taken. "HEY, THA'T'S MINE!" growled Crono. Before he could react and try to take back his property, the mugger struck Crono in the face and ran off into the darkness. "Hey! Mister are you alright?" questioned a voice. It was the Pegasus from earlier. "Yeah, runt only wanted my wallet and took off with it." commented Crono. "I can get it back, be back in a bit!" said the pony. With great acceleration, the Pegasus flew into the darkness and Crono stared into it. A homeless colt that he mistreated, went off to retrieve his money that he desperately needed. How could that colt look over the incident that happened only hours before, and help without asking In a flash, the Pegasus returned, with the wallet in hoof. "Its all inside. I didn't take ANYTHING or looked at anything. Promise." said the pony. "That was pretty quick." said the impressed stallion. "Thank you, sir. Now if you don't mind I will be on my way." said the younger pony while starting to leave. "Hold it!" commanded Crono. "Uh, yes?" asked the dirty Pegasus. "Here's a challenge, if you could fly back to the mugger and take something from him and get back here, before this bag of bits hits the ground, they're all yours." proposed the unicorn. "Sure!" said the excited Pegasus. "Ready, set, GO!" said Crono. Upon his order, the Pegasus flew as hard as he could. In the air the small sack of bits flew and soon enough it started to descend. Just before the bag touched the cement, the homeless colt dashed for it, catching it with only a spilt second to spare. In his left hoof, he held the cap that the mugger wore. Soon after he confirmed the Pegasus his spoils, he spoke to him. "What's your name young colt?" "My name is Cloud but the ponies of Canterlot also call me Dust" answered the dirty Pegasus. "Cloud Dust?" questioned the stallion. "And to think, that we hung out everyday after that day." said Crono in the interrogation room. "Poor kid lost his parents to some fool with a knife. Lucky for him I took him under my wing. Talent shouldn't be wasted anyways....... Kid since then has ad my back every time I needed somepony." thought Crono. The door that stood in the way behind the guards swung open and in came Cloud Dust and Octavia. "Alright, fossil let's get you home." said Cloud with a smile. "HEY! Who let you two in?! This is an interrogation! Get out!" said one of the guards. "No, you get out, before WE have YOU in that chair." said Octavia as she passed the a release form. "HOW DID YOU-" started one of the guards. Before he could finish, Crono stood and walked out of the room alongside Octavia. Just as Cloud turned to leave, he sared at the guards and opened his coat, revealing his family emblem. Fear struck the two guards and as Cloud inched closer, the guards inched farther until they met the wall. He raised a hoof to them, to which they flinched. "Exactly, KEEP IT THAT WAY!" commented the Pegasus as he left the room.
