Tales from the Golden Oak Libraryby GrenazersChaptersCh1-IntroductionCh2-TimberponyCh3- The Origin of HydraCh4- Birth of a RaceCh1-IntroductionIt was mid-afternoon on a Friday. All the little colorful colts and fillies were sitting patiently on their chairs, slouching forward on their desk. Standing in front of all the little foals, is a magenta mare with a pink mane that has a lighter pink strand in it. The mare is their teacher, Miss Cheeriless and she was lecturing her students about the history of the Wonderbolts. Unbeknownst to her, only half of her students were actually paying attention. The other half were staring at the ticking clock. It was almost three o'clock, the time the school ends and they can all enjoy the weekend. They watched as the thin black line continued to count down the seconds before the school day ends. A little orange pegasus filly name Scootaloo, stared at the clock intensively, hoping that by sheer willpower she can force the seconds to go faster. Sitting in front of her was her friend Applebloom, unlike her orange companion this yellow earth filly was actually paying attention to Cheerilee's lecture. Sitting behind the orange filly was another friend of her and Applebloom. Her name was Sweetie Belle and she is unicorn. While Scootaloo stared at the clock and Applebloom was listening, the little white filly was daydreaming. Sweetie was in her own little world as she gaze at nothing, only seeing the mental images in her mind. With only ten seconds left on the clock, Scootaloo counted down the seconds in her head. She simultaneously counted down with the clock. '10' '9' '8' '7' '6' '5' '4' '3' '2' '1' The school bell rang and everypony packed their bags. They were about to leave when Cheerliee stopped them. “Hold on everypony!” She shouted, gaining all their attention. “Before you all go, I want to assign you homework for the weekend.” Almost all the ponies gave a collective groan upon hearing this. “Now I want you all to find a short story and write me a one page review about it. This includes the summary, what you like or dislike about it and a overall score out of ten.” After she was done informing her students of their assignments she dismisses them and told everyone to have a good weekend. While everypony was galloping out of the schoolhouse, only three were trotting out the door. “Man, leave it Miss Cheerilee to give us homework for the weekend.” Scootaloo complained. “Oh come on, Scootaloo it can't be that hard.” “Easy for you to say, Sweetie Belle.” The orange filly responded. “I can never really pay attention any stories, whenever I read something, my mind just wonders off somewhere.” “Jeez Scootaloo, do you have ADD or what?” “No, I just find most stories boring.” As the two fillies converse with each other, an idea pop inside Applebloom's head. “Hey girls, how about we go Twilight's place?” “Huh, why?” Scootaloo questioned. “To do our homework of course.” She answered. “What, you mean like now?” “yeah, why you ask?” “Well I though I could do mine later.” “You mean at the last second.” Sweetie added. “Shut up, Sweetie Belle.” Scootaloo said as she glared at the unicorn filly, Sweetie responded by glaring back her orange friend. Deciding to end this before it escalate, Applebloom budded in. “Look Scootaloo if we do our homework now, then we can enjoy the rest of weekend.” Scootaloo though about for a second before finally agreeing with it. “Well alright Applebloom, you do make a good point.” Nodding to her friend's approval, the three crusaders headed towards the Golden Oak Library, home to the lavender alicorn, Princess Twilight Sparkle. It took them a couple of minutes to reach her home. When they came into view of the large tree house, the three galloped towards it. Scootaloo reach the door first and knocked on it a couple of times. They waited for a couple of seconds until the door opened, on the other side was familiar purple dragon. “Oh hey girls.” Spike greeted them. “What are you doing here?” “We're just here to take out a book.” Applebloom said. Spike move aside and allow the three fillies in. Once they were inside, the three looking around the line of bookcases. Their search got them the attention of the alicorn studying upstairs. Looking down from the ledge, she saw the three crusaders searching through her books. Raising her wings up, she flew down and landed perfectly on the wooden floor. “Hey girls, what are you doing here?” Twilight asked. “Are you here for Twilight Time?” “Not today Twilight.” Applebloom answered, while still doing her search. “Yeah we're here to take out a book.” Scootaloo said next. “It's for our homework Miss Cheerilee assign us.” Sweetie explained. Seeing how the three were having a hard time looking for this certain book, Twilight decided to lend her assistance in their search. “Well how about you tell what the book and I can take it out for you.” “Well the thing is Twilight, is that I don't remember the book's title. “Applebloom said. “All I know is that book had a collection of all these short stories. Stories I've never heard of.” Listening to her description, Twilight mentally match it with any books that fit that description. Finally out of all the books one stood out from the rest. “Are you looking the 101 Tales from Equestria?” She questioned, “Yeah! That's the one!” Applebloom exclaim and turn to face her. But, when she did she saw a frown on the alicorn's face. “I'm sorry girls, but somepony has already took that book out.” Twilight explained, earning her a surprise shock from the crusaders. “What!” “Are you kidding me?” “Now what do we do?” Seeing the disappointed looks n their faces, Twilight suddenly came up with a new idea on how to help them out. “Girls listen, the book may be gone, but I read and memorized all the stories in it.” “Wait, does that mean you tell us any of the 101 stories from the book?” Sweetie questioned. “That's right!” Twilight answered. “Alright!” “Way to go, Twilight!” The lavender alicorn blush from the praises she was getting. The crusaders then took a seat right in front of her. Twilight cleared her throat and ask Spike to get some refreshments. “Now what do you want for your stories?” “Anything would do Twilight.” Applebloom suggested. “Well then let me tell you of a tale about a certain pony. He was a unique pony, strange, unusual, but still unique. Instead of being made of flesh and bones, this pony was made of sticks and leaves. This is the tale of... The Timberpony. Ch2-TimberponyTimberpony In the land of Equestria, therein lies the infamous Everfree Forest. What makes this dark forest so infamous is because of how unnatural it is. The weather above changes without the assistance of pegasuses, the various vegetation of the forest flourish without aid from any ponies. Lastly the many creatures that inhabits the forest, can take care of themselves. Aside from the unnaturalness of the forest, what truly makes the Everfree Forest dangerous are the many dangerous beast that inhabits these woods. From the mighty Manitcores to the deadly Basilisks, the Everfree is home to some of Equestria's most deadliest predators. Among the masses are the numerous and vicious wooden canines, the Timberwolves. Like the forest itself, the Timberwolves are a mysterious species, with no knowledge of where they came from or who created them. For all they knew, the Timberwolves had always existed. Always been wolves and nothing else. However, this was not the case for one group of Timberwolves. In this pack there is one who not like the others. Instead of claws, it has hooves. Instead of sharp fangs, it has flat teeth. Instead of small yellow eyes, this one's eyes were double the size. Including the features of his leaf mane and tail, this creature is less Timberwolf and more Timberpony. Indeed this one shares more similar characteristic with a pony, then his own Timberwolf brethren. Because of this, he was seen as an outcast from the rest of his pack mates. They rejected this freak and would've rid of him years ago if it weren't for his mother, the Alpha. It is because of his mother, is the reason why the Timberpony was still part of the group. At first the Alpha was disturbed by the strangeness of her son, but she eventually grew fond of him and accepted him the way he is. Unfortunately, the rest of her pack wasn't so accepting. She would occasionally get into fight with them and get challenges for pack leader. Earlier on she easily defeated all of her challengers, but as time go by she realized that she was getting older. Fearing the inevitability of her demise, she train and taught her son all he needed to know to survive in the wild Everfree Forest. Their time together strengthen their bond, which only made the Alpha even sadder. Finally the day came and Timberpony and his mother were alone together. His mother told him to leave, which confuses him. She repeated herself, this time more sterner. When the Timberpony pleaded with his mother to stay, she lashes out on him and told him to leave and never come back. Devastated, the Timberpony galloped away from his mother. Unbeknownst to him, his mother was also equally as devastated at what she just did. The Timberpony ran for a good mile before stopping. Catching his breath, the young stallion had many things going around his head. The most common is why his mother acted like that and why she was suddenly stern with him. He knew that the others didn't like him and that he was only able to stay is because of his mother. She protected him all his life and now she just kicked him out. Why now all of a sudden? Why did she suddenly want to disown him? Why did she even bother to raise him? These question can only be answered from the source itself. And with that, the Timberpony ran back his mother. When he got there, he heard some noise beyond some bushes. Hiding in of them, the wooden pony took a peek out and saw a fight between two Timberwolves. Surrounding the two is a ring of wolves, all watching the two fight each other. The pony then notice that it was her mother inside the ring. She was currently fighting another Timberwolf who was taller and more bulkier then her. The stallion knew what was going on and watched. It wasn't the first time somebody decided to challenge his mother. He remembered when he was young, he watched his mother easily defeat any fools who thinks they can take her position. However, in this fight, his mother was the one losing. As tough as she is, the Alpha was old now. While her opponent was wolf in his prime. The Alpha tried strike him down, but because of his large stature he barely felt her blows. The large wolf struck her down in one fell swoop. As she was down, he sunk his fangs on her left foreleg and tore it off. She yelled in pain, while her son's eyes widen upon witness such gruesome display. Finally the large Timberwolf decided to finish this, he lowered his jaw over her head and opened his mouth wide. Seeing enough, the Timberpony galloped out of there, As he ran, he heard the dying scream of his mother. He continued to run aimlessly through the woods, all the while repeating the horrible sound in his head. He may have not seen her death, but he can imagine how it went. Eventually the pony found a spot to rest his tired legs. By this point his legs was wobbling. He collapse on the grassy floor and laid there for a while. Time passes and the wooden stallion didn't get up. He had no motivation to, no reason to continue on. Suddenly he some noises. Normally he would just ignore it and hope who ever it was, was going to either leave him alone or finish him. But, upon hearing the noise clearer. It was a sound he found familiar. Curiosity got the best of him and so got up and investigate. Passing some more bushes and trees, the Timberpony saw a big open field. Realized that he was at the edge of the Everfree Forest, he was about to turn back until he took notice of three ponies, playing in the field. This triggered a flashback in his head which dug up one of his old memories back when he was little. When he was a little colt, he remembered he used to go to the edge of the forest and watched the ponies. He watched ponies big and small, either playing games or just having a picnic together. He found them interesting to observe, mostly because of how similar he is to them. Aside from the unicorns and pegasuses, he share many characteristic with them. He always wanted to meet them, but worried that they might reject them like his species did with him. But, now here was again as an adult, facing the same situation that he faced as a child. He though about it for a moment and decide to just do it. Taking a deep breath he left the hiding place and went up to the trio of ponies. The three were a colorful bunch, more colors he ever in the dark forest. One was a red stallion with a white mane, the second was another stallion, blue with green mane. Then the third one was a yellow mare with a red mane. As he draws closer to the three, he was about to greet them until they saw him. There reaction, as expected scared them. The three galloped away from the wooden pony, leaving the poor Timberpony all alone. Depressed, the stallion retreated back into the woods. He went back the same spot he was before and slept for the rest of the day. That night the pony was having a dream, he was reliving a moment from his past. It started off with him as a colt, hunting a squirrel with other Timberwolve pups. He didn't really need to eat meat, but he wanted to be helpful. Sadly he accidentally ruined a ambush set for the squirrel and he was blamed for it. Sadden by this he ran back to his mother. He told her everything that happened, all the while crying. His mother comfort her crying son and told him that it was an honest mistake. When he told that he'll never do this again, his mother scolded him. She lecture him about how you shouldn't just give up that easily. Nobody ever succeed if they gave up at the first try. Sure you'll mess up, but if you let that block you from reaching that goal then you'll accomplish anything. The dream ended there and the Timberpony slowly woke up. The sun may not have shine through the forest, but he knew that it was morning. He remembered his mother's advice and took it to heart. Once again went the edge of the woods and waited. Hours passed and not a single came, he starting to get doubtful about his plan. That it until somepony showed up. Appearing over the horizon, he recognize the pony. It was that yellow mare from yesterday. He watched her trotting closer to the forest. When she was near enough the mare looked straight into the forest, as if looking for someone. 'Could it be him she was looking for.' He thought to himself. He then crawled out of his hiding spot and surprised the mare. Seeing the frighten look on her face, he expected the mare to runaway again. Instead she was talking to him. The Timberpony only understood a few of the mare's words, but he managed to get the gist of it. The mare wanted to apologize for her and her friends behavior yesterday. She wanted to meet him so that they can have a more proper introduction. She then indicated that she wanted him to follow her. He does so and follow the mare. As they trotted the Timberpony had many questions bouncing around his head. Was this it? Was he finally going to accept? Will they accepted him? Can he really fit in with these ponies? He continue to question his action and whether or not they'll be consequences for it. But, one thing is for sure. He was going to face these problems head on, with head held high and standing on his own hooves. The two trotted over the horizon and with that the Timberpony started his new life. “And that was the story of the Timberpony.” Twilight said as she finishes the story. “So what did you girls think about the story?” “It was good.” Applebloom said. “I like it!” Sweetie exclaimed. “Meh, it was alright.” Scootaloo spoke, uninterested. Twilight listen to all the reaction the crusaders gave about the story. She then notice her assistance Spike has took seat next to the crusaders during her story telling. He was currently handing out refreshments to the girls. “The story was good and that there Timberpony seems to be a relatable kind of fella.” Applebloom commented. “Well I just love the ending part, it was really nice.” Sweetie explained. “The story was okay, but not that interesting.” Scootaloo criticized. Twilight then faced the little orange pegasus. “Well what kind of stories do you prefer?” She asked. “How about something with action or adventure!” “Well then how about a tale of a alicorn fighting a sea monster?” Twilight suggested. “Yeah, that sound pretty awesome.” “Okay then quiet down, our next story is about a great alicorn warrior who was sent by the Queen to deal with a huge, nasty, terrifying beast....the Hydra!” The crusaders and Spike all gasped. “This next story is called...” The Origin of Hydra Ch3- The Origin of HydraThe Origin of Hydra The city of Horseshoe Bay, a small city known for its influx of trade goods with other Species from across the vast blue sea. The griffons were the first to open trade with the ponies, but then later the Zebras, the Minotaurs, the Donkeys, and even some dragons, started opening trades with them. Because of this, the citizens of Horseshoe Bay were able to have a stable economy for many years. Never once did they ever face a recession, unlike the other pony cities. Yes, the ponies of Horseshoe Bay live in harmony from the the many goods they get from the other nations. Then all of sudden, their perfect lives abruptly ended when cases of missing boats arrived. Recently, reports of of ship going missing in the sea. At first it was maybe one or two ships that went missing. But, in the following days more ships started disappearing. Search parties were sent out, none found anything. Baffled, the ponies was worried about what was causing the disappearance of the ships. Many demanded answers and looked to the Mayor for answers he didn’t have. Fortunately for them, there questions were answered with the arrival of giant sea beast. Rising from the water, a massive creature looked down upon the gawking ponies. Its body was larger then any of the ships dock at the port, its height was taller then any mountain. But, the most unique feature of this monster was its hundred of serpent like heads. Each of the serpent head chose their target and strike. They destroyed buildings, devoured ponies, and caused great destruction to the city of Horseshoe Bay. The city's guards did not stand a chance against such a beast. Instead they focused their efforts on evacuating the citizens out of the city. The ponies watched helplessly as the sea beast continues to destroy their beloved city. Meanwhile, up high in the sky a large alicorn mare watched in a mirror, which showed a image of the city burning and the beast that caused it. She heard the ponies cry for help and she was going to sent aid. Calling for her champion, a large dark blue alicorn with long black mane appeared. His name is Nebula and he was one of the best warriors to ever serve under the Queen. The Queen inform him of the situation in Horseshoe Bay and was about offer him a small army to lead, but was stopped. Nebula explained that he needed no army and said that he can take care of the beast himself. The Queen raised an eyebrow to this, but allow it. She was not worried by this, since Nebula has always completed task at hoof. However, what the Queen doesn't know is that Nebula wanted to himself. Wanted all the glory to himself and hope to rise even higher in the hierarchy. With his mind set, he summoned his armor and weapon. He then opened a portal to the city, opening his wings he flew through the hole and into the burning city below. Upon arriving, the city was in total ruin. Buildings laid destroyed, shadows of their former self. Fire was everywhere, the smoke was practically blocking out the skies. He spotted no ponies in the ruin city, figuring that they all must have left by now. Suddenly he saw the black silhouette of the giant beast beyond the black smoke. Nebula made a beeline towards it, hoping to slaying it quickly. Breaching the smoky barrier, the dark blue alicorn came face to face with the monster, or at least one of its many faces. The stallion hovered above the serpent's face, taking in all the creature's characteristics. The beast immediately snap its jaw at the small alicorn before it. Nebula easily dodge the monster's attack, but was almost hit when another head snap at him. Even after that more heads were coming towards him, all of them wanting to devour the stallion. Luckily for him, the hydra's movement was slow as he evaded each of the head trying to take a bite out of him. He lured the giant beast away from the city and into the ocean where it came from. Once they were both far away from the city, Nebula took out his broad sword and flew down to the base of one of the serpent's neck. Raising his sword, the stallion swung the blade and slice the neck off in one fell swoop. He didn't stop there, he cut off two more necks before flying back up, avoiding one of the heads. As he flew up he heard and felt the decapitated heads, splashing in the water below. When he got up to their heads, Nebula swung his broadsword again and sliced two of them off. He continued to do for a while, evading the serpent's jaws and chopping more heads off. Unknown to him, the alicorn stallion failed to notice the heads he sliced off were regenerating at a fast pace. In minutes a new was already out and ready to fight. It took him until the thirtieth head to notice the heads were regenerating. Tired by this point, the stallion muscles were strained and his broadsword has lost its sharpness from its constant usage. However, despite all this Nebula refused to give up. Gripping his weapon hard, he cast a quick spell to resharpen his blade and thrust his long wings forward, heading straight to the massive sea beast. Two of the serpent head lunge at their prey, flying toward them. Stallion flew in between them, resulting in them colliding with each other. Nebula then spun in a circle with his sword sticking, cutting both the heads off. Instead of leaving them, the alicorn flew back to the headless necks and seal the wound up with his magic. He finished the second one in time, when another head came at him. He dodged it and looked back. When he did he smiled at not seeing the decapitated head growing back. Witnessing that his idea worked, he proceeded to do the same with the rest of them. The battle went on for hours, Nebula flew in between the heads. All the while dodging and slicing their heads off, with the addition of also sealing the wound up with his magic. The alicorn had several close calls with hydra, numerous time he was almost bitten. The only damage he received were bruises he got when the heads smash into him. This did not deterred the alicorn champion and he press on with the assault. It wasn't until the hydra had three heads left, did finally retreated. The colossal sea beast, dive under water and swam away. Nebula watch the creature turn tail and ran. With the look of relief on his face, he opened a portal and returned to the alicorn realm. Intending to tell his Queen of his accomplishments. When he return he was greeted by a large crowd of gathered alicorns, all saying praises for the returning champion. As he expected the Queen rewarded his action by offering a higher position in her ranks. Along with a promotion and fame, Nebula had everything he wanted. A month later, Nebula was once again called to face another enemy that threatens Equestria. The dark blue alicron adorn his armor, equipped his sword and met his Queen in her throne room. The Queen informed him that the hydra has return. Nebula was surprised by this, but nevertheless he was going finally finish the beast off. However, the Queen told him that it isn't the same creature from before, rather the same species. He did not care, for he has defeated it once he can do so again. Opening the portal up, he went through the magic hole and found himself in Equestria. Once there he spotted the beast and flew towards it. When he got a closer look at the monster, it shorter then the one he fought before and had only three heads. Deciding to questioned it after he has slain the beast, Nebula went in and slice the creature's head off. After sealing the wound up, Nebula notices the three decapitated were still alive. They struggle to move around, but only able to move their mouths, eyes, and neck. This surprises the alicorn and before he could dwell on it more, he heard a loud roar. Turning to face the source of the roar, his emerald eyes widen at what he saw. It was not only another hydra, but multiple of them. All shapes and sizes, all emerging from the ocean. Nebula tried to slay them all, but was soon overwhelm. More simply ran passed him and went further into the land of Equestria. After slaying all the hydras in the area, Nebula remembered the hydras emerging from the ocean. Believing the source to be coming from there, he dive right in. He cast a spell on himself which will allow him breath underwater. When he found nothing, the alicorn went deeper down. The more deeper he goes the more darker it gets. Nebula cast a simple illumination which help lighten the darkness around him. Reaching the ocean's floor, the stallion scan the area and found nothing. Trotting around for a bit, Nebula spotting something moving in the darkness. Shining his light in that direction, it revealed one of the serpent's head twitching. Looking at it further, Nebula recognizes it as one of the hydra's head he found a month ago. Moving his light along the beast's neck. He was shock to find it to be attach to a body. He then sense the presence of other hydras around him, expanding his illumination spell, he lighten a huge portion of the area around him. Surrounding the alicorn, it was all the heads he sliced off. Not only were they all still alive, they were also growing a new bodies. Each of the decapitated serpent heads was slowly growing a body, those nearly done were already starting to get up and move, all the while growing an extra head or two. Realizing that he was responsible for this mess, he quickly finished them off and hastily head back to the surface and hunt the rest. But, when reach the surface he was confronted by the Queen and two of her guards. The Queen scolded Nebula for his action in creating these monsters and for that he is to be punished. Before he could utter a word all four of them teleported away and never return. The alicorn guards managed to slay a majority of the hydras, but a few had either escape their hunters or have hidden themselves. Nopony knew what happened to Nebula or what his punishment was. Some speculate that he was locked away in dungeon somewhere or he was banished from this world. Nopony knew his fate, but what they do know is that because of him, is why the Hydra's are around. “And that conclude this tale. “ Twilight finished, “So what do you girls think?” Looking to see any reaction fro them, all she got was neutral expression. “That was kinda depressing.” Applebloom said honestly. “Yeah, I don't like it all.” Sweetie spoke. “I did like the action, but what with the downer ending, Twilight?” “Well I'm sorry girls, but that is just how the story is written.” Twilight replied. “Some writers just believe that it would make a good story if the main protagonist suffer a tragedy.” “But, why” Sweetie Belle asked. Twilight shrugged. “Who knows, it just written like that.” Not wanting to dwell deeper on this topic, the lavender Alicorn quickly ask for the next type of story. Since Applebloom and Scootaloo got their tales, all that was left is for Sweetie Belle to suggest one. “So, Sweetie Belle what do you want to hear?” Putting her right hoof on her chin, she thought long and hard, which was a couple of seconds for her. Finally she though of one. “Oh how about a romance!” She exclaimed. While Applebloom was totally fine with that, Scootaloo couldn't help but roll her eyes. Hearing her suggestion, Twilight instantly remembered one and began telling it. “This next tale is about a certain princess of the night, who fell in love with a stallion. And from their union, created a new race. This tale is called..... Birth of a Race. Ch4- Birth of a RaceBirth of a Race Long before Princess Luna's banishment to the moon. She and her sister, Princess Celestia, rule their kingdom of Equestria together. Both sisters have the share the same amount f responsibility with one another. Princess Celestia perform all her duties during the day, while Luna herself did her duties during the night. They kept up with this routine for the next hundreds of years, nothing changing much in between. Princess Luna sat alone on her throne, while a courier was telling her of some dire news. Recently a strange group of beast has been attacking her subjects. Everyday they get more bolder and started attacking larger settlements. These beast are also quite ferocious as not even her guard can stop them. She tried to take care of these beast herself, but they always disappear before she could even reach them. She at the end of her ropes. She doesn't find a way to deal with these creatures, more of her subjects will be harmed. That all of sudden he appeared. A stallion flew in through one of the opened windows and announce his presence to the night princess. Princess Luna turned to the stallion and notice some strange features on him. He had grey coat and messy blue hair. On his back, instead of bird wings this stallion had bat wings. His eats was also more fluffy at the tip and his yellow eyes were reptilian like. Luna asked who the pony was and he managed to get pass her guards. The stallion introduces himself as Nightwing and he just flew in here. She eyed the mysterious stallion and questioned what he wanted. He responded by saying that he was offering his service to the princess. He heard of the problem she was facing and he offers to take care of the beast. Sceptical, Luna questioned what he wants for his services. Nightwing only requested one thing, a foal. More specifically he wants the foal to come from her. Luna did not take this lightly. She was outrage by such a request, but was silence when Nightwing pulled out a severed head of the beast from his backpack. Her eyes widen upon seeing the beast and reconsider his offer. Deep in thought, Luna weighs her options. This stallion could have collected the head from a already deceased body. However, if his words speaks truth then Luna has finally found something to get rid of the beast. She told Nightwing that she'll accept his offer, but before she needs proof of his action. When the stallion pointed to the head, Luna explained that she wants a witness. She told the batpony to wait outside and that she will sent one of her guards to be his witness. Nightwing gave no objections and flew out the same window. Leaving the princess all alone in the throne room. Once he was gone, Luna cast a illusion spell on herself. The way it works is that while she looks the same, everypony else will see her differently. To everypony, she looked like a simple generic pegasus stallion guard. Making a quick check to see that her spell works, Luna flew out the window and met the waiting stallion. The both of them then took off, with Nightwing leading the way. The strange stallion led Luna all the way to White Tail Woods, there he instructs her to stay back and watch. She complied and observed as the stallion flew into the woods. Luna stood there waiting for the stallion. She waited for an hour and nothing happened. She was about to leave when suddenly she heard a loud roar from the forest. Out from the shadow a large furry beast jumped out, with a certain stallion on its back. The beast flail around, trying to get rid of his assailant. Unfortunately for him the pony held firmly on his back. All the while repeatably stabbing the beast with his dagger. The beast then resorted to falling on his back, hoping to crush the stallion behind him. Nightwing saw this coming and flew off, leaving his dagger embedded in its back. The creature fell and slammed the dagger deeper in its body, instantly dying. The batpony stood triumphantly over his fallen prey. He then notice the guard pony with his mouth agape. Luna stared in absolute shock at what she just witness. This stallion managed to slay this beast all by himself, a feat not even her own guards can do. She was brought out of her trance when Nightwing spoke to her. He pointed towards the dead beast and told the guard of his proof. The guard complied and inform him that he will tell the princess of his action. So disguised alicorn princess took flight and left, leaving the stallion with his prize. After the deal was made, Nightwing kept up his end of the deal and continued to hunt down the savage beast. Not wanting to keep her guards in the dark, she inform them of Nightwing and even sent some to assist the stallion on his mission. He decline at first, saying he works best alone. But, Luna was very insistent about it. Days passed and Luna got more reports of slain beast across Equestria. Nightwing was truly a stallion of his words. Then came day were Luna has to fulfil her end of the deal. She invites Nightwing into her bed chamber and they spend the night together. By next morning the lunar princess was pregnant. To her surprise, Nightwing stick around. Saying that he was keeping an eye on the mare bearing his child. Luna didn't tell anyone of her conception. The only pony who knew was herself, Nightwing, and a few of her trusted guards. It was during this time, that the two actually started bonding. Sure Nightwing would be sent out and assist the guards, but he mostly stand by the side of his lover. Luna was finally able get to know the mysterious stallion more from their talks. Apparently Nightwing one of a kind. He was the only batpony in existence. He explained that he has no idea where he came from or how he was created. His earliest memories was being at a orphanage. He was an treated like an outcast from the kids because of his unusual appearance. Because of this Nightwing has always felt alone. Luna understood feeling very well. She herself is always alone at night. With her subjects and sister asleep, she felt lonely during her silent nights. Finding a common ground their relationship grew even further. The two then became more romantically involve with each other. Finally the day came and Luna was about to give birth. She laid on top of bed, with only Nightwing and doctor in the room. Nightwing stood next to her, he was currently calming the princess down, trying to make her relax. The doctor perform his duty and told the princess to keep pushing. When the foal came out, both Luna and Nightwing sigh in relief. However, the doctor inform the two that there is more. This surprises the two and waited for the next foal. The doctor pulled two more foals out from the princess. The doctor held the three foals up and displayed them to the couple. Luna stared blissfully at her three foals and order the doctor to bring them to her. Nightwing was both shocked and happy at the same time. He was only expecting one foal, but three, truly this was good day. He inspected the three foals, who Luna was busy snuggling them. Looking closer he could see that two of them were colts and third one was a filly. They stay together for almost a month now. Until the day came where he and the foals has to leave. She knew this day would come, but still she feel sad about it. Nightwing was going to take his foals raised them himself. Luna objected to this, but her lover reasons that she still have her duties t her country and how they can't keep their secret for long. With that Nightwing took the foals and disappeared into the night. Leaving Luna all alone again. Many years passed after that event and she has heard no words from that stallion or her three foals. To say she was sad would be a understatement. However, she hid depression and continued on with her princess duties. Eventually memories of Nightwing slowly disappeared, becoming nothing more then a nameless stallion she vaguely remembered. But, then some extraordinary happened. One night while she taking a stroll she was greeted by a group of batponies. According to them, they came to offer their services to the princess. Confused she asked why they would want to serve under her. They responded by saying it was request their great grandfather. When she ask who he was, they said it was Nightwing. This instantly triggered a flashback and Luna remembered everything about that stallion. She further learned that these batponies were all descends of him. Apparently he and the foals started a small colony. Her three children grew up, found mates, and produce offspring. These later became part of the colony, further increasing the batpony population. Once they were enough of them, they went onto fulfilling Nightwing's last wish. He wanted them to repay the help Luna did for him by offering their services to her. Luna was astound by this, never had she imagine that Nightwing would do such a thing for her. She happily accepted their services and soon the role of the night guard was slowly being replace by these ponies. From that day on, Luna sat on top of her throne, surrounded by her children. Finally was no longer alone, for now she has an entire race that dwells in the night. “Wow, now that was an interesting story.” Twilight spoke. “What do you girls think?” “I think it was great!” Sweetie shouted. “There's some holes in that story.” Applebloom pointed out. “What's a hand?” Scootaloo asked. “What do you like about it Sweetie Belle?” Twilight asked, ignoring the hand question. “What I like is how Nightwing was a knight in shining armor. He swooped in saves the day and even sway Princess Luna herself!” Despite Sweetie's enthusiasm, her orange pegasus friend was not so sure. “I don't know, I just don't think Luna would that easy to sway.” She commented. Sweetie then glare at Scootaloo. “And why is that?” “Well because Luna is a thousands of years old! You think she won't be that easily swayed by this guy.” “He's not some guy! He is a stallion that won the heart of a fair princess.” Sweetie retort. Before this argument could escalate, Applebloom stepped in. “girls please calm down, it's just a story, it's not real.” “She's right you know.” Spike added. “These are just how they were written. The author just didn't put much thought into it.” Twilight watched the four converse with each other, glad that they settle it without her budding in. Taking a look at her clock, she was surprise to see how much time has passed. “Girls!” She said loudly, earning her their attention. “It's getting late, you all should be heading home now.” Realizing how late it was, the crusaders all rushed to the door. They all said their goodbyes and left. Twilight watch the three fillies run off in the distance, always happy to help them out.
Ch1-IntroductionIt was mid-afternoon on a Friday. All the little colorful colts and fillies were sitting patiently on their chairs, slouching forward on their desk. Standing in front of all the little foals, is a magenta mare with a pink mane that has a lighter pink strand in it. The mare is their teacher, Miss Cheeriless and she was lecturing her students about the history of the Wonderbolts. Unbeknownst to her, only half of her students were actually paying attention. The other half were staring at the ticking clock. It was almost three o'clock, the time the school ends and they can all enjoy the weekend. They watched as the thin black line continued to count down the seconds before the school day ends. A little orange pegasus filly name Scootaloo, stared at the clock intensively, hoping that by sheer willpower she can force the seconds to go faster. Sitting in front of her was her friend Applebloom, unlike her orange companion this yellow earth filly was actually paying attention to Cheerilee's lecture. Sitting behind the orange filly was another friend of her and Applebloom. Her name was Sweetie Belle and she is unicorn. While Scootaloo stared at the clock and Applebloom was listening, the little white filly was daydreaming. Sweetie was in her own little world as she gaze at nothing, only seeing the mental images in her mind. With only ten seconds left on the clock, Scootaloo counted down the seconds in her head. She simultaneously counted down with the clock. '10' '9' '8' '7' '6' '5' '4' '3' '2' '1' The school bell rang and everypony packed their bags. They were about to leave when Cheerliee stopped them. “Hold on everypony!” She shouted, gaining all their attention. “Before you all go, I want to assign you homework for the weekend.” Almost all the ponies gave a collective groan upon hearing this. “Now I want you all to find a short story and write me a one page review about it. This includes the summary, what you like or dislike about it and a overall score out of ten.” After she was done informing her students of their assignments she dismisses them and told everyone to have a good weekend. While everypony was galloping out of the schoolhouse, only three were trotting out the door. “Man, leave it Miss Cheerilee to give us homework for the weekend.” Scootaloo complained. “Oh come on, Scootaloo it can't be that hard.” “Easy for you to say, Sweetie Belle.” The orange filly responded. “I can never really pay attention any stories, whenever I read something, my mind just wonders off somewhere.” “Jeez Scootaloo, do you have ADD or what?” “No, I just find most stories boring.” As the two fillies converse with each other, an idea pop inside Applebloom's head. “Hey girls, how about we go Twilight's place?” “Huh, why?” Scootaloo questioned. “To do our homework of course.” She answered. “What, you mean like now?” “yeah, why you ask?” “Well I though I could do mine later.” “You mean at the last second.” Sweetie added. “Shut up, Sweetie Belle.” Scootaloo said as she glared at the unicorn filly, Sweetie responded by glaring back her orange friend. Deciding to end this before it escalate, Applebloom budded in. “Look Scootaloo if we do our homework now, then we can enjoy the rest of weekend.” Scootaloo though about for a second before finally agreeing with it. “Well alright Applebloom, you do make a good point.” Nodding to her friend's approval, the three crusaders headed towards the Golden Oak Library, home to the lavender alicorn, Princess Twilight Sparkle. It took them a couple of minutes to reach her home. When they came into view of the large tree house, the three galloped towards it. Scootaloo reach the door first and knocked on it a couple of times. They waited for a couple of seconds until the door opened, on the other side was familiar purple dragon. “Oh hey girls.” Spike greeted them. “What are you doing here?” “We're just here to take out a book.” Applebloom said. Spike move aside and allow the three fillies in. Once they were inside, the three looking around the line of bookcases. Their search got them the attention of the alicorn studying upstairs. Looking down from the ledge, she saw the three crusaders searching through her books. Raising her wings up, she flew down and landed perfectly on the wooden floor. “Hey girls, what are you doing here?” Twilight asked. “Are you here for Twilight Time?” “Not today Twilight.” Applebloom answered, while still doing her search. “Yeah we're here to take out a book.” Scootaloo said next. “It's for our homework Miss Cheerilee assign us.” Sweetie explained. Seeing how the three were having a hard time looking for this certain book, Twilight decided to lend her assistance in their search. “Well how about you tell what the book and I can take it out for you.” “Well the thing is Twilight, is that I don't remember the book's title. “Applebloom said. “All I know is that book had a collection of all these short stories. Stories I've never heard of.” Listening to her description, Twilight mentally match it with any books that fit that description. Finally out of all the books one stood out from the rest. “Are you looking the 101 Tales from Equestria?” She questioned, “Yeah! That's the one!” Applebloom exclaim and turn to face her. But, when she did she saw a frown on the alicorn's face. “I'm sorry girls, but somepony has already took that book out.” Twilight explained, earning her a surprise shock from the crusaders. “What!” “Are you kidding me?” “Now what do we do?” Seeing the disappointed looks n their faces, Twilight suddenly came up with a new idea on how to help them out. “Girls listen, the book may be gone, but I read and memorized all the stories in it.” “Wait, does that mean you tell us any of the 101 stories from the book?” Sweetie questioned. “That's right!” Twilight answered. “Alright!” “Way to go, Twilight!” The lavender alicorn blush from the praises she was getting. The crusaders then took a seat right in front of her. Twilight cleared her throat and ask Spike to get some refreshments. “Now what do you want for your stories?” “Anything would do Twilight.” Applebloom suggested. “Well then let me tell you of a tale about a certain pony. He was a unique pony, strange, unusual, but still unique. Instead of being made of flesh and bones, this pony was made of sticks and leaves. This is the tale of... The Timberpony.
Ch2-TimberponyTimberpony In the land of Equestria, therein lies the infamous Everfree Forest. What makes this dark forest so infamous is because of how unnatural it is. The weather above changes without the assistance of pegasuses, the various vegetation of the forest flourish without aid from any ponies. Lastly the many creatures that inhabits the forest, can take care of themselves. Aside from the unnaturalness of the forest, what truly makes the Everfree Forest dangerous are the many dangerous beast that inhabits these woods. From the mighty Manitcores to the deadly Basilisks, the Everfree is home to some of Equestria's most deadliest predators. Among the masses are the numerous and vicious wooden canines, the Timberwolves. Like the forest itself, the Timberwolves are a mysterious species, with no knowledge of where they came from or who created them. For all they knew, the Timberwolves had always existed. Always been wolves and nothing else. However, this was not the case for one group of Timberwolves. In this pack there is one who not like the others. Instead of claws, it has hooves. Instead of sharp fangs, it has flat teeth. Instead of small yellow eyes, this one's eyes were double the size. Including the features of his leaf mane and tail, this creature is less Timberwolf and more Timberpony. Indeed this one shares more similar characteristic with a pony, then his own Timberwolf brethren. Because of this, he was seen as an outcast from the rest of his pack mates. They rejected this freak and would've rid of him years ago if it weren't for his mother, the Alpha. It is because of his mother, is the reason why the Timberpony was still part of the group. At first the Alpha was disturbed by the strangeness of her son, but she eventually grew fond of him and accepted him the way he is. Unfortunately, the rest of her pack wasn't so accepting. She would occasionally get into fight with them and get challenges for pack leader. Earlier on she easily defeated all of her challengers, but as time go by she realized that she was getting older. Fearing the inevitability of her demise, she train and taught her son all he needed to know to survive in the wild Everfree Forest. Their time together strengthen their bond, which only made the Alpha even sadder. Finally the day came and Timberpony and his mother were alone together. His mother told him to leave, which confuses him. She repeated herself, this time more sterner. When the Timberpony pleaded with his mother to stay, she lashes out on him and told him to leave and never come back. Devastated, the Timberpony galloped away from his mother. Unbeknownst to him, his mother was also equally as devastated at what she just did. The Timberpony ran for a good mile before stopping. Catching his breath, the young stallion had many things going around his head. The most common is why his mother acted like that and why she was suddenly stern with him. He knew that the others didn't like him and that he was only able to stay is because of his mother. She protected him all his life and now she just kicked him out. Why now all of a sudden? Why did she suddenly want to disown him? Why did she even bother to raise him? These question can only be answered from the source itself. And with that, the Timberpony ran back his mother. When he got there, he heard some noise beyond some bushes. Hiding in of them, the wooden pony took a peek out and saw a fight between two Timberwolves. Surrounding the two is a ring of wolves, all watching the two fight each other. The pony then notice that it was her mother inside the ring. She was currently fighting another Timberwolf who was taller and more bulkier then her. The stallion knew what was going on and watched. It wasn't the first time somebody decided to challenge his mother. He remembered when he was young, he watched his mother easily defeat any fools who thinks they can take her position. However, in this fight, his mother was the one losing. As tough as she is, the Alpha was old now. While her opponent was wolf in his prime. The Alpha tried strike him down, but because of his large stature he barely felt her blows. The large wolf struck her down in one fell swoop. As she was down, he sunk his fangs on her left foreleg and tore it off. She yelled in pain, while her son's eyes widen upon witness such gruesome display. Finally the large Timberwolf decided to finish this, he lowered his jaw over her head and opened his mouth wide. Seeing enough, the Timberpony galloped out of there, As he ran, he heard the dying scream of his mother. He continued to run aimlessly through the woods, all the while repeating the horrible sound in his head. He may have not seen her death, but he can imagine how it went. Eventually the pony found a spot to rest his tired legs. By this point his legs was wobbling. He collapse on the grassy floor and laid there for a while. Time passes and the wooden stallion didn't get up. He had no motivation to, no reason to continue on. Suddenly he some noises. Normally he would just ignore it and hope who ever it was, was going to either leave him alone or finish him. But, upon hearing the noise clearer. It was a sound he found familiar. Curiosity got the best of him and so got up and investigate. Passing some more bushes and trees, the Timberpony saw a big open field. Realized that he was at the edge of the Everfree Forest, he was about to turn back until he took notice of three ponies, playing in the field. This triggered a flashback in his head which dug up one of his old memories back when he was little. When he was a little colt, he remembered he used to go to the edge of the forest and watched the ponies. He watched ponies big and small, either playing games or just having a picnic together. He found them interesting to observe, mostly because of how similar he is to them. Aside from the unicorns and pegasuses, he share many characteristic with them. He always wanted to meet them, but worried that they might reject them like his species did with him. But, now here was again as an adult, facing the same situation that he faced as a child. He though about it for a moment and decide to just do it. Taking a deep breath he left the hiding place and went up to the trio of ponies. The three were a colorful bunch, more colors he ever in the dark forest. One was a red stallion with a white mane, the second was another stallion, blue with green mane. Then the third one was a yellow mare with a red mane. As he draws closer to the three, he was about to greet them until they saw him. There reaction, as expected scared them. The three galloped away from the wooden pony, leaving the poor Timberpony all alone. Depressed, the stallion retreated back into the woods. He went back the same spot he was before and slept for the rest of the day. That night the pony was having a dream, he was reliving a moment from his past. It started off with him as a colt, hunting a squirrel with other Timberwolve pups. He didn't really need to eat meat, but he wanted to be helpful. Sadly he accidentally ruined a ambush set for the squirrel and he was blamed for it. Sadden by this he ran back to his mother. He told her everything that happened, all the while crying. His mother comfort her crying son and told him that it was an honest mistake. When he told that he'll never do this again, his mother scolded him. She lecture him about how you shouldn't just give up that easily. Nobody ever succeed if they gave up at the first try. Sure you'll mess up, but if you let that block you from reaching that goal then you'll accomplish anything. The dream ended there and the Timberpony slowly woke up. The sun may not have shine through the forest, but he knew that it was morning. He remembered his mother's advice and took it to heart. Once again went the edge of the woods and waited. Hours passed and not a single came, he starting to get doubtful about his plan. That it until somepony showed up. Appearing over the horizon, he recognize the pony. It was that yellow mare from yesterday. He watched her trotting closer to the forest. When she was near enough the mare looked straight into the forest, as if looking for someone. 'Could it be him she was looking for.' He thought to himself. He then crawled out of his hiding spot and surprised the mare. Seeing the frighten look on her face, he expected the mare to runaway again. Instead she was talking to him. The Timberpony only understood a few of the mare's words, but he managed to get the gist of it. The mare wanted to apologize for her and her friends behavior yesterday. She wanted to meet him so that they can have a more proper introduction. She then indicated that she wanted him to follow her. He does so and follow the mare. As they trotted the Timberpony had many questions bouncing around his head. Was this it? Was he finally going to accept? Will they accepted him? Can he really fit in with these ponies? He continue to question his action and whether or not they'll be consequences for it. But, one thing is for sure. He was going to face these problems head on, with head held high and standing on his own hooves. The two trotted over the horizon and with that the Timberpony started his new life. “And that was the story of the Timberpony.” Twilight said as she finishes the story. “So what did you girls think about the story?” “It was good.” Applebloom said. “I like it!” Sweetie exclaimed. “Meh, it was alright.” Scootaloo spoke, uninterested. Twilight listen to all the reaction the crusaders gave about the story. She then notice her assistance Spike has took seat next to the crusaders during her story telling. He was currently handing out refreshments to the girls. “The story was good and that there Timberpony seems to be a relatable kind of fella.” Applebloom commented. “Well I just love the ending part, it was really nice.” Sweetie explained. “The story was okay, but not that interesting.” Scootaloo criticized. Twilight then faced the little orange pegasus. “Well what kind of stories do you prefer?” She asked. “How about something with action or adventure!” “Well then how about a tale of a alicorn fighting a sea monster?” Twilight suggested. “Yeah, that sound pretty awesome.” “Okay then quiet down, our next story is about a great alicorn warrior who was sent by the Queen to deal with a huge, nasty, terrifying beast....the Hydra!” The crusaders and Spike all gasped. “This next story is called...” The Origin of Hydra
Ch3- The Origin of HydraThe Origin of Hydra The city of Horseshoe Bay, a small city known for its influx of trade goods with other Species from across the vast blue sea. The griffons were the first to open trade with the ponies, but then later the Zebras, the Minotaurs, the Donkeys, and even some dragons, started opening trades with them. Because of this, the citizens of Horseshoe Bay were able to have a stable economy for many years. Never once did they ever face a recession, unlike the other pony cities. Yes, the ponies of Horseshoe Bay live in harmony from the the many goods they get from the other nations. Then all of sudden, their perfect lives abruptly ended when cases of missing boats arrived. Recently, reports of of ship going missing in the sea. At first it was maybe one or two ships that went missing. But, in the following days more ships started disappearing. Search parties were sent out, none found anything. Baffled, the ponies was worried about what was causing the disappearance of the ships. Many demanded answers and looked to the Mayor for answers he didn’t have. Fortunately for them, there questions were answered with the arrival of giant sea beast. Rising from the water, a massive creature looked down upon the gawking ponies. Its body was larger then any of the ships dock at the port, its height was taller then any mountain. But, the most unique feature of this monster was its hundred of serpent like heads. Each of the serpent head chose their target and strike. They destroyed buildings, devoured ponies, and caused great destruction to the city of Horseshoe Bay. The city's guards did not stand a chance against such a beast. Instead they focused their efforts on evacuating the citizens out of the city. The ponies watched helplessly as the sea beast continues to destroy their beloved city. Meanwhile, up high in the sky a large alicorn mare watched in a mirror, which showed a image of the city burning and the beast that caused it. She heard the ponies cry for help and she was going to sent aid. Calling for her champion, a large dark blue alicorn with long black mane appeared. His name is Nebula and he was one of the best warriors to ever serve under the Queen. The Queen inform him of the situation in Horseshoe Bay and was about offer him a small army to lead, but was stopped. Nebula explained that he needed no army and said that he can take care of the beast himself. The Queen raised an eyebrow to this, but allow it. She was not worried by this, since Nebula has always completed task at hoof. However, what the Queen doesn't know is that Nebula wanted to himself. Wanted all the glory to himself and hope to rise even higher in the hierarchy. With his mind set, he summoned his armor and weapon. He then opened a portal to the city, opening his wings he flew through the hole and into the burning city below. Upon arriving, the city was in total ruin. Buildings laid destroyed, shadows of their former self. Fire was everywhere, the smoke was practically blocking out the skies. He spotted no ponies in the ruin city, figuring that they all must have left by now. Suddenly he saw the black silhouette of the giant beast beyond the black smoke. Nebula made a beeline towards it, hoping to slaying it quickly. Breaching the smoky barrier, the dark blue alicorn came face to face with the monster, or at least one of its many faces. The stallion hovered above the serpent's face, taking in all the creature's characteristics. The beast immediately snap its jaw at the small alicorn before it. Nebula easily dodge the monster's attack, but was almost hit when another head snap at him. Even after that more heads were coming towards him, all of them wanting to devour the stallion. Luckily for him, the hydra's movement was slow as he evaded each of the head trying to take a bite out of him. He lured the giant beast away from the city and into the ocean where it came from. Once they were both far away from the city, Nebula took out his broad sword and flew down to the base of one of the serpent's neck. Raising his sword, the stallion swung the blade and slice the neck off in one fell swoop. He didn't stop there, he cut off two more necks before flying back up, avoiding one of the heads. As he flew up he heard and felt the decapitated heads, splashing in the water below. When he got up to their heads, Nebula swung his broadsword again and sliced two of them off. He continued to do for a while, evading the serpent's jaws and chopping more heads off. Unknown to him, the alicorn stallion failed to notice the heads he sliced off were regenerating at a fast pace. In minutes a new was already out and ready to fight. It took him until the thirtieth head to notice the heads were regenerating. Tired by this point, the stallion muscles were strained and his broadsword has lost its sharpness from its constant usage. However, despite all this Nebula refused to give up. Gripping his weapon hard, he cast a quick spell to resharpen his blade and thrust his long wings forward, heading straight to the massive sea beast. Two of the serpent head lunge at their prey, flying toward them. Stallion flew in between them, resulting in them colliding with each other. Nebula then spun in a circle with his sword sticking, cutting both the heads off. Instead of leaving them, the alicorn flew back to the headless necks and seal the wound up with his magic. He finished the second one in time, when another head came at him. He dodged it and looked back. When he did he smiled at not seeing the decapitated head growing back. Witnessing that his idea worked, he proceeded to do the same with the rest of them. The battle went on for hours, Nebula flew in between the heads. All the while dodging and slicing their heads off, with the addition of also sealing the wound up with his magic. The alicorn had several close calls with hydra, numerous time he was almost bitten. The only damage he received were bruises he got when the heads smash into him. This did not deterred the alicorn champion and he press on with the assault. It wasn't until the hydra had three heads left, did finally retreated. The colossal sea beast, dive under water and swam away. Nebula watch the creature turn tail and ran. With the look of relief on his face, he opened a portal and returned to the alicorn realm. Intending to tell his Queen of his accomplishments. When he return he was greeted by a large crowd of gathered alicorns, all saying praises for the returning champion. As he expected the Queen rewarded his action by offering a higher position in her ranks. Along with a promotion and fame, Nebula had everything he wanted. A month later, Nebula was once again called to face another enemy that threatens Equestria. The dark blue alicron adorn his armor, equipped his sword and met his Queen in her throne room. The Queen informed him that the hydra has return. Nebula was surprised by this, but nevertheless he was going finally finish the beast off. However, the Queen told him that it isn't the same creature from before, rather the same species. He did not care, for he has defeated it once he can do so again. Opening the portal up, he went through the magic hole and found himself in Equestria. Once there he spotted the beast and flew towards it. When he got a closer look at the monster, it shorter then the one he fought before and had only three heads. Deciding to questioned it after he has slain the beast, Nebula went in and slice the creature's head off. After sealing the wound up, Nebula notices the three decapitated were still alive. They struggle to move around, but only able to move their mouths, eyes, and neck. This surprises the alicorn and before he could dwell on it more, he heard a loud roar. Turning to face the source of the roar, his emerald eyes widen at what he saw. It was not only another hydra, but multiple of them. All shapes and sizes, all emerging from the ocean. Nebula tried to slay them all, but was soon overwhelm. More simply ran passed him and went further into the land of Equestria. After slaying all the hydras in the area, Nebula remembered the hydras emerging from the ocean. Believing the source to be coming from there, he dive right in. He cast a spell on himself which will allow him breath underwater. When he found nothing, the alicorn went deeper down. The more deeper he goes the more darker it gets. Nebula cast a simple illumination which help lighten the darkness around him. Reaching the ocean's floor, the stallion scan the area and found nothing. Trotting around for a bit, Nebula spotting something moving in the darkness. Shining his light in that direction, it revealed one of the serpent's head twitching. Looking at it further, Nebula recognizes it as one of the hydra's head he found a month ago. Moving his light along the beast's neck. He was shock to find it to be attach to a body. He then sense the presence of other hydras around him, expanding his illumination spell, he lighten a huge portion of the area around him. Surrounding the alicorn, it was all the heads he sliced off. Not only were they all still alive, they were also growing a new bodies. Each of the decapitated serpent heads was slowly growing a body, those nearly done were already starting to get up and move, all the while growing an extra head or two. Realizing that he was responsible for this mess, he quickly finished them off and hastily head back to the surface and hunt the rest. But, when reach the surface he was confronted by the Queen and two of her guards. The Queen scolded Nebula for his action in creating these monsters and for that he is to be punished. Before he could utter a word all four of them teleported away and never return. The alicorn guards managed to slay a majority of the hydras, but a few had either escape their hunters or have hidden themselves. Nopony knew what happened to Nebula or what his punishment was. Some speculate that he was locked away in dungeon somewhere or he was banished from this world. Nopony knew his fate, but what they do know is that because of him, is why the Hydra's are around. “And that conclude this tale. “ Twilight finished, “So what do you girls think?” Looking to see any reaction fro them, all she got was neutral expression. “That was kinda depressing.” Applebloom said honestly. “Yeah, I don't like it all.” Sweetie spoke. “I did like the action, but what with the downer ending, Twilight?” “Well I'm sorry girls, but that is just how the story is written.” Twilight replied. “Some writers just believe that it would make a good story if the main protagonist suffer a tragedy.” “But, why” Sweetie Belle asked. Twilight shrugged. “Who knows, it just written like that.” Not wanting to dwell deeper on this topic, the lavender Alicorn quickly ask for the next type of story. Since Applebloom and Scootaloo got their tales, all that was left is for Sweetie Belle to suggest one. “So, Sweetie Belle what do you want to hear?” Putting her right hoof on her chin, she thought long and hard, which was a couple of seconds for her. Finally she though of one. “Oh how about a romance!” She exclaimed. While Applebloom was totally fine with that, Scootaloo couldn't help but roll her eyes. Hearing her suggestion, Twilight instantly remembered one and began telling it. “This next tale is about a certain princess of the night, who fell in love with a stallion. And from their union, created a new race. This tale is called..... Birth of a Race.
Ch4- Birth of a RaceBirth of a Race Long before Princess Luna's banishment to the moon. She and her sister, Princess Celestia, rule their kingdom of Equestria together. Both sisters have the share the same amount f responsibility with one another. Princess Celestia perform all her duties during the day, while Luna herself did her duties during the night. They kept up with this routine for the next hundreds of years, nothing changing much in between. Princess Luna sat alone on her throne, while a courier was telling her of some dire news. Recently a strange group of beast has been attacking her subjects. Everyday they get more bolder and started attacking larger settlements. These beast are also quite ferocious as not even her guard can stop them. She tried to take care of these beast herself, but they always disappear before she could even reach them. She at the end of her ropes. She doesn't find a way to deal with these creatures, more of her subjects will be harmed. That all of sudden he appeared. A stallion flew in through one of the opened windows and announce his presence to the night princess. Princess Luna turned to the stallion and notice some strange features on him. He had grey coat and messy blue hair. On his back, instead of bird wings this stallion had bat wings. His eats was also more fluffy at the tip and his yellow eyes were reptilian like. Luna asked who the pony was and he managed to get pass her guards. The stallion introduces himself as Nightwing and he just flew in here. She eyed the mysterious stallion and questioned what he wanted. He responded by saying that he was offering his service to the princess. He heard of the problem she was facing and he offers to take care of the beast. Sceptical, Luna questioned what he wants for his services. Nightwing only requested one thing, a foal. More specifically he wants the foal to come from her. Luna did not take this lightly. She was outrage by such a request, but was silence when Nightwing pulled out a severed head of the beast from his backpack. Her eyes widen upon seeing the beast and reconsider his offer. Deep in thought, Luna weighs her options. This stallion could have collected the head from a already deceased body. However, if his words speaks truth then Luna has finally found something to get rid of the beast. She told Nightwing that she'll accept his offer, but before she needs proof of his action. When the stallion pointed to the head, Luna explained that she wants a witness. She told the batpony to wait outside and that she will sent one of her guards to be his witness. Nightwing gave no objections and flew out the same window. Leaving the princess all alone in the throne room. Once he was gone, Luna cast a illusion spell on herself. The way it works is that while she looks the same, everypony else will see her differently. To everypony, she looked like a simple generic pegasus stallion guard. Making a quick check to see that her spell works, Luna flew out the window and met the waiting stallion. The both of them then took off, with Nightwing leading the way. The strange stallion led Luna all the way to White Tail Woods, there he instructs her to stay back and watch. She complied and observed as the stallion flew into the woods. Luna stood there waiting for the stallion. She waited for an hour and nothing happened. She was about to leave when suddenly she heard a loud roar from the forest. Out from the shadow a large furry beast jumped out, with a certain stallion on its back. The beast flail around, trying to get rid of his assailant. Unfortunately for him the pony held firmly on his back. All the while repeatably stabbing the beast with his dagger. The beast then resorted to falling on his back, hoping to crush the stallion behind him. Nightwing saw this coming and flew off, leaving his dagger embedded in its back. The creature fell and slammed the dagger deeper in its body, instantly dying. The batpony stood triumphantly over his fallen prey. He then notice the guard pony with his mouth agape. Luna stared in absolute shock at what she just witness. This stallion managed to slay this beast all by himself, a feat not even her own guards can do. She was brought out of her trance when Nightwing spoke to her. He pointed towards the dead beast and told the guard of his proof. The guard complied and inform him that he will tell the princess of his action. So disguised alicorn princess took flight and left, leaving the stallion with his prize. After the deal was made, Nightwing kept up his end of the deal and continued to hunt down the savage beast. Not wanting to keep her guards in the dark, she inform them of Nightwing and even sent some to assist the stallion on his mission. He decline at first, saying he works best alone. But, Luna was very insistent about it. Days passed and Luna got more reports of slain beast across Equestria. Nightwing was truly a stallion of his words. Then came day were Luna has to fulfil her end of the deal. She invites Nightwing into her bed chamber and they spend the night together. By next morning the lunar princess was pregnant. To her surprise, Nightwing stick around. Saying that he was keeping an eye on the mare bearing his child. Luna didn't tell anyone of her conception. The only pony who knew was herself, Nightwing, and a few of her trusted guards. It was during this time, that the two actually started bonding. Sure Nightwing would be sent out and assist the guards, but he mostly stand by the side of his lover. Luna was finally able get to know the mysterious stallion more from their talks. Apparently Nightwing one of a kind. He was the only batpony in existence. He explained that he has no idea where he came from or how he was created. His earliest memories was being at a orphanage. He was an treated like an outcast from the kids because of his unusual appearance. Because of this Nightwing has always felt alone. Luna understood feeling very well. She herself is always alone at night. With her subjects and sister asleep, she felt lonely during her silent nights. Finding a common ground their relationship grew even further. The two then became more romantically involve with each other. Finally the day came and Luna was about to give birth. She laid on top of bed, with only Nightwing and doctor in the room. Nightwing stood next to her, he was currently calming the princess down, trying to make her relax. The doctor perform his duty and told the princess to keep pushing. When the foal came out, both Luna and Nightwing sigh in relief. However, the doctor inform the two that there is more. This surprises the two and waited for the next foal. The doctor pulled two more foals out from the princess. The doctor held the three foals up and displayed them to the couple. Luna stared blissfully at her three foals and order the doctor to bring them to her. Nightwing was both shocked and happy at the same time. He was only expecting one foal, but three, truly this was good day. He inspected the three foals, who Luna was busy snuggling them. Looking closer he could see that two of them were colts and third one was a filly. They stay together for almost a month now. Until the day came where he and the foals has to leave. She knew this day would come, but still she feel sad about it. Nightwing was going to take his foals raised them himself. Luna objected to this, but her lover reasons that she still have her duties t her country and how they can't keep their secret for long. With that Nightwing took the foals and disappeared into the night. Leaving Luna all alone again. Many years passed after that event and she has heard no words from that stallion or her three foals. To say she was sad would be a understatement. However, she hid depression and continued on with her princess duties. Eventually memories of Nightwing slowly disappeared, becoming nothing more then a nameless stallion she vaguely remembered. But, then some extraordinary happened. One night while she taking a stroll she was greeted by a group of batponies. According to them, they came to offer their services to the princess. Confused she asked why they would want to serve under her. They responded by saying it was request their great grandfather. When she ask who he was, they said it was Nightwing. This instantly triggered a flashback and Luna remembered everything about that stallion. She further learned that these batponies were all descends of him. Apparently he and the foals started a small colony. Her three children grew up, found mates, and produce offspring. These later became part of the colony, further increasing the batpony population. Once they were enough of them, they went onto fulfilling Nightwing's last wish. He wanted them to repay the help Luna did for him by offering their services to her. Luna was astound by this, never had she imagine that Nightwing would do such a thing for her. She happily accepted their services and soon the role of the night guard was slowly being replace by these ponies. From that day on, Luna sat on top of her throne, surrounded by her children. Finally was no longer alone, for now she has an entire race that dwells in the night. “Wow, now that was an interesting story.” Twilight spoke. “What do you girls think?” “I think it was great!” Sweetie shouted. “There's some holes in that story.” Applebloom pointed out. “What's a hand?” Scootaloo asked. “What do you like about it Sweetie Belle?” Twilight asked, ignoring the hand question. “What I like is how Nightwing was a knight in shining armor. He swooped in saves the day and even sway Princess Luna herself!” Despite Sweetie's enthusiasm, her orange pegasus friend was not so sure. “I don't know, I just don't think Luna would that easy to sway.” She commented. Sweetie then glare at Scootaloo. “And why is that?” “Well because Luna is a thousands of years old! You think she won't be that easily swayed by this guy.” “He's not some guy! He is a stallion that won the heart of a fair princess.” Sweetie retort. Before this argument could escalate, Applebloom stepped in. “girls please calm down, it's just a story, it's not real.” “She's right you know.” Spike added. “These are just how they were written. The author just didn't put much thought into it.” Twilight watched the four converse with each other, glad that they settle it without her budding in. Taking a look at her clock, she was surprise to see how much time has passed. “Girls!” She said loudly, earning her their attention. “It's getting late, you all should be heading home now.” Realizing how late it was, the crusaders all rushed to the door. They all said their goodbyes and left. Twilight watch the three fillies run off in the distance, always happy to help them out.
