The Laws of Life.

by Koren

Rating: teen
Tags: Slice of Life, Sad, Dark, Tragedy
Length: 35326

A defective changeling meets a dying pony. And a poor mare, who was never given a proper chance at a life because of her heritage. Both wish to have a life. Even if he has to take over one already lived. Even if she has to go out, in search for one.

Two poor souls were cheated out of their proper lives.

A defective changeling, kicked from it's nest and left to wander the forest. Waiting for death to take it to the worlds below. Ink Blazer, a young colt, who is robbed of his childhood, and his life. But when the changeling comes across this pony in need, this pony on the verge of death, something strange happens. And now, under the ponies dying wishes, the changeling gets to learn what a proper life is like.

Take a peak into his life, and see how this changeling deals with a life that is not his own. Will he be able to keep up a charade of everything being normal, and fine? Or will everything fall to pieces around him, and the life of Ink Blazer ends again in vain.

A poor mare, cheated out of a life because of her heritage.

Fantasm only wanted a life. A life free from her fathers mistakes. But will she ever be able to get that chance, with every little thing reminding her that she is her fathers daughter. Cast out of the only home she knew, she wanders, trying to find a life that she can live in peace.

Take a peak into her life, and see how this mare deals with her struggles of trying to find a life. Of just wanting to have a chance. Will she be able to find that chance, to find a life, and burst into flames, becoming the mare she always wanted. Or is she just a dying ember, just about to simmer out, and disappear with out a fight.

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2014-07-14 20:11:35 UTC

The life, of a life.

Prologue: The life, of a life.

It happened when I was young. When I was kicked from the nest that I had been born in. It was done swiftly, and without compassion. But, looking back at it now, I know that they did it for their own sake. What is a changeling worth, if it can’t shift forms? What is a changeling worth, if it was born with no wings. They had hanged onto me for a while. But, their efforts where all futile No matter how much I had tried, I couldn’t cast the most simplest of changing spells. No matter how long it took, no wings would ever grow for me.  So, I was tossed, into the unforgiving nature of the forest. There I had wandered, and wandered. Surviving dreary days  full of darkness, and long nights full of cold storms. Storms of  thunder and rain pouring down on me, from the unforgiving heavens.

I didn’t walk so that I could survive. I walked so that I could eventually die quicker. From the hunger that filled me, to the exhaustion that ravaged my body. But time moved. Days and nights passed. And I still lived. On days that I didn't have the strength to move, I would watch the forest around me. It was the cruel twist of fate, that I could watch things around me perish, but I continue living. A few times, I would come across a savage creature, that would be sure to tear me to shreds. To devour me. But, to the beasts that roamed around, I was nothing. I would take more energy for them to eat, then I would give them. And so, I kept wandering. Through the now countless days and nights. Time just blending into one long gray blur for me.

I had felt myself grow lighter. Grow weaker. I had walked far enough to come upon an edge to the forest. And it was there that  I felt like I was going to die. But, It wasn’t my feelings of death. I felt it from somewhere else. From a pony, a little foal. He must have wandered too close, and got attacked by the beasts that wandered within the forest. It was a gruesome scene. One I would rather not describe, or remember again, for the sake of my sanity. Though, even though he appeared dead, he still clung onto a tiny part of his fading life. I don’t know what I was thinking at the time, but I walked up to him. “H-help. . M-m-me. . Please.” His voice was dry. With every syllable he spoke, you could hear his pain. I felt no sorrow for him. In fact, I envied him. For, here is just another being, dieing. While I still lived on. I was about to walk away from him, but, for some reason. Some, little, stupid reason, I looked back. I looked back, and walked close to him.

I felt everything he did. All the pain. All of his sorrow. Everything. Something was happening, and I think for the first time in what can be called my life, I actually felt scared. “I can’t help you. You are going to die.” I spoke in a grim tone. I saw him whimper ever so slightly. He looked up at me. There was no fear in his eyes, by this point. There was only pain. I frowned at him. “P-please. You’ve got to-” I cut him off, holding my hoof out. “Be quite. I can’t do anything. You are going to die.” I started walking away from him again. That little dark blue colt. “Then. Could you.” I hear him weakly call back to me. He was standing now, or at least, what could pass for standing in his condition. “Become me.”

I laughed. “Ha! Even if I could become you, why would I?” I don’t know what lead me to meet him with such open resistance. Again, I think it was because of his death. He pleaded with me still. “Please, changeling. I’m giving you my life.” He spoke more strongly now, his voice still weak though. And even though I still denied him, something kept happening. We started to glow. Only barely, but there was a glow “Why should I have your life?” He smiled at me, blood trickling out of his mouth. “B-because I know that’s what anypony, or changeling, would want.” His voice was weak, but he spoke more solidly now. And he was right. I did want a life. Even one that wasn’t my own. So, I finally agreed. “I will live your life then.” I felt a strong burn in myself. I winced downwards, barely watching as green glow take a hold of both our forms. Slowly, the magical aura connects us. I felt myself shift. Becoming smaller, but a little bulkier. I could see as  my normally pitch black skin grew out his dark blue fur. His white mane grew on my head.

I felt his wings sprout, painfully, out of my back. I laid there, panting heavily. And, in that moment I was some. . Somepony else. I was no longer an ‘it.’ I was ‘him’ now. My mind hurt, as something else happened. I didn’t just gain his form, I also gained his memories. Everything about him, was me now. My old life was now gone. If I had a name, it was forgotten. I smiled at the pony who just gave me his life. But, he would never smile back. I buried him as well as I could. I buried him by a tree, the closest thing to a proper grave maker he would get. I picked up a stone, and carved into the tree. It wasn't anything heartfelt or special. Just a couple words, that to any other pony would just seem like some foalish thing to do. Finally, exhaustion took over me again, and I layed by the tree. Right over where I buried him. And right above me, was the inscription.

‘Ink Blazer lays here.’

Old life, old memories. New existence.

Chapter 1: Old life, old memories. New existence.

I  awoke sometime later, laying in a bed. And, It was the most comfortable thing I have ever felt in my life. I never wanted to get up. Though, I heard something. A sniff. I turned my head towards the sound, and there was a gasp. “Ink!” I heard a mare call out. “You’re awake. You’re awake!” She shouted, and went to hug me. I was going to say something like ‘get away from me.’ or ‘I don’t know you.’ But neither of those were true in anyway. I knew exactly who this mare was. Her name is Sweet Harmony. Ink Blazers. . . My older sister. “You had me so worried.” She had said to me, as I was held tight in her grasp.

I wanted to pull away, to say something. But I just layed there and let it happen. I felt really different from before. As a changeling, you don’t have real emotions. Any real feelings. You only experience glimpses of feelings and emotions through other creatures that can. It is how we feed. But, at that moment, I felt. I had emotion. So, I did the first thing that came to my mind. I cried. And kept crying. “S-sis. . . I was so scared. Everything was so dark.” My throat ached slightly as I spoke, but every word came natural to me. But, I was also in a predicament now. For I had two sets of memories. My memories of wandering through the woods. And ‘my’ memories of my life at home. Of ‘my’ friends, and of school. Of the things they talked about with ‘me.’

I tried to let my old life fade. But I will never forget what I was. Who I was. The memories of that life would only make me remember pain, and would complicate this new life I was given. Those were the things I thought about at that time. Kind of silly thinking back at it. Anyways, Sweet’s voice brought me back into reality. “What were you thinking?!” She asked, practically yelled at me. “Going out alone so close to night time!? And going to the everfree of all places!” It went on like that. Her scolding me as I lay in bed, just listening to it all. “I’m sorry. I was just. . “ I stopped talking at that moment. I closed my eyes. Things back then took a while to get used. The hardest part was trying to remember things clearly, from before I became him.

After the long pause, I began to talk again. “I was just being stupid. . My friends all said I couldn’t spend the night at the edge of the forrest. I wanted to prove them wrong but. . . But. “ She pressed her hoof to my mouth. It felt weird. “Shush. It’s ok. You have nothing to prove, because your my little brother.” She was always so sweet to him. She was always like his mother, since theirs had passed away during his birth. Their father just also up and vanished on them after that. Never showing his sorry face around again. I laid there, thinking everything was going to be fine from then on out. But, for some reason I just had to ask something. “Am. . Am I really me?”

She had laughed at my question, thinking nothing about it. “Why, of course you’re you.” She said with a smile. “How do you know?” I asked, persisting on that blasted subject. “Because I know my little brother. And you are him.” I stayed silent after that. As said, it took a while to get used to things. Walking, talking, and all that stuff was a cake walk. But, when it came down to things, like remembering all his memories, it was tough. I messed up ponies names. I confused ponies with other ponies. And, dealing with the wings was harder. I never had wings before, even if I was exposed to. And, even if I couldn't fly at that age, it was tough to have them at my side all the time.

Another thing that was hard to get used to was the never ending silence in my mind. When I was still a changeling, I was connected to my hive. Even though I was kicked out, I could still hear the din of the thousands of members, absent mindedly following the orders given by our ruler. Since I was no longer a part of the hive, I wasn't forced into following the orders. But, after I became a pony, and that din was gone. I kind of missed it. Only kind of. I  eventually got used to the silence. “Is something wrong?” I heard Sweet ask, one morning during breakfast. I shook my head.

“You sure? You have just seemed so distant since the time you went into the woods. You’ve been really scrambled around as well. I’ve gotten reports from your teachers, saying you can’t easily remember everypony’s name. Did you hit your head at all?”  I shook my head again. I couldn’t tell her what happened. That her real brother was dead. And that I was just something that was given his place in life. Even if I wanted to tell her, I couldn’t. I couldn’t tell anypony. They would have called me monster, and tried to kill me. And they would never understand. The pain for them would be too great to see what had happened. That they’re loved one was given a second life though some one else. But no, to have a loved one ripped away from you, just to find that they were replaced. That pain would be insurmountable. And, no one should go through the pain of losing a loved one twice.

I knew that back then. So I only answered with. “Don’t worry, Sis. I’m fine. I promise.” Giving her a big, toothy smile that was common of her brother. After that, things did start getting simple. I was able to recall things from my past easily. I remembered everypony’s names. Never getting them mixed up. Finally, I had a life, and I wasn’t going to let it go. And I wasn't going to waste it. I was going to live this life to it’s fullest potential. So I did. I did my best at school. I played with all my friends as well as I could. I tried my hardest to fly, but, thats a different subject for a different day.

Eventually, I was able to be Ink Blazer, the pony. Instead of Ink Blazer, the impostor. Life was not without it’s challenges though. I still have dreams of that forest. Of running, as fast as I could, but never getting anywhere but more lost. I would wake up screaming, and Sweet would be there in an instant. To hold me and calm me down. It helped a lot. And I always went right back into sleep, this time without any dreams. I would awake in the morning, and continue the routine that I had built. To be more like Ink. Get up, eat food that Sweet had lovingly prepared. Then, brush my teeth, and head out the door, ready for a day of school.

On the weekend, I would do almost the same thing, but stay at home, or head out to play. I adjusted to this life quickly. But as I said, I will not let this life go in vain. I need to live up to as much of it that I can. It would be a shame, a total disgrace, to not try my hardest, after being given this life.

Life from here on out.

Chapter 2: Life from here on out.

I let out a long sigh, as I sit up in bed. A year. It has been a exactly a year since I was given my life. I no longer consider us as separate entities anymore. I am him now. Well, I guess I’ve been him for a while, but I finally feel like I am him. I let out a long, lingering yawn as I shift away my covers. I walk over to my desk, and peak at the small mirror that sits there. It’s just a small ritual I have. I just stare in the mirror for a few seconds, sometimes a few minutes. Just to make sure I’m still. . . .Me. And not me. I let out another sigh, remembering what day it is. Back to school, after a pleasant summer. You know, sometimes, you get so used to something, that you think that it will never end.

But, alas, it does. And now it’s time to start my first day in middle school. It’s not that I hate school. I actually quite like it. It teaches me things that every other pony would learn. Something an average changeling would never learn. But I’m not the average ‘changeling.’ Actually. I’m not sure what I am anymore. But I don’t like dwelling on it. This brings me to look back into the mirror. I used to have a complete white mane and tail. But, just a few months ago, I decided to dye them with black strips. In memory of a life that no one knows was lost. Though, sometimes I fear that others will find out the truth about me, because. . . I glance back towards my flank, but my eyes just meet the bare dark blue fur that covers the rest of me. I haven’t gotten my cutie mark yet. Every other pony my age has gotten theirs.

And, I mean sure, I love doing many things, but I haven’t found just that one thing that would make me, me. Sometimes I think that it’s because I really am not me. Since I was a changeling, maybe I can’t earn a cutie mark. It’s hard to know for sure though, really. As a changeling, I could never experienced my own set of emotions, only feed of of them. But, I no longer feel the need to feast off of emotions, like I once did. And now, I feel them myself. Over this past year, I have felt joy, and happiness whenever I am with my friends, and play with them. Or when I am with my sister, Sweet.

I’ve felt sadness, and sorrow, when a friend moved to Canterlot. When one of my friends hurt himself trying to fly by jumping of the tallest building. two broken legs, and a wing later, and he hasn't dared try again.  I've even felt what love is like.

To changelings, love is the most precious, and sacred, emotion that we can feed off of. It fills us with a complete energy, and makes us thrive better, and stronger. Love is also what showed changelings the importance of sticking out for your own. To say a changeling lacks, or is devoid of all emotion would be false. Sure, we can’t feel emotions on our own, but once we feed on them, we know what it is like, and can imitate them. So while we would never be able to fully contemplate love and what it has to offer, we were able to see it’s importance to pony kind, and in turn the importance to our kind. But I’m getting side tracked.

I’m in love. She is the most amazing, and beautiful filly I have ever laid eyes on. And, sure, this town may be small, but it’s big enough that I don’t see everypony. She had moved to this place a few months ago, but has always lived on the other side of town. But, just one week ago, she moved right next door to me. She has this amazing, long strawberry blonde mane and tail, with cute soft pink highlights. Her fur is also a light pink color. And her eyes are a vibrant pink as well. Her cutie mark, a white heart out line with a white tipped paintbrush in it, represents her talent of art. And, by Celestia, her art is amazing. She often paints right out in the front yard, or in our adjoined backyard.

I know it seems creeperish, but I love watching her paint. Just how focused she gets. She practically glows when she is painting as well. The way she can just grab a paint brush and draw is amazing. She does it all with ease, every single stroke of the brush. “Ink. Stop day dreaming. You're gonna be late on your first day.” I shake my head. My sister is smiling at me in my door frame. “Captivated by your own reflection?” I stick my tongue out at her, and grab my saddle bags, hurry up and out of my room, down the short hall to the living room. “Good bye. See you later.” I call out as I rush out the door. I hear Sweet call out one last “Be safe. And have fun.”

Be safe. The last thing that Sweet says to me is be safe, and here I am, already falling to the ground, face first. I land with a hard thud onto the small stone walkway in front of the house. I sit up, shaking my head hard. “Oh my. I’m so sorry.” I hear a soft voice call from slightly behind me. “I didn’t mean to trip you.” I turn to say it’s ok, and it was my fault for running so fast. But, once I meet eyes with the pony who accidentally tripped me, I am left speechless. “Oh, your mad. Aren't you? Way to go with first impressions, Artsy.” I shake my head, and my hooves. “Oh no. I’m not mad. It was kind of my bad too.” Yep. It’s her. Virtuoso Craft. The filly of my dreams. “Oh hey. You’re that girl that just moved next door. Right?”

I try to play it off as I don’t know her, and it seems to work. She just gives me a big toothy grin, closing her eyes as she nods happily. “Yep! Virtuoso Crafts my name. Artsy works as well. Some ponies even call me Artsy-Craftsy.” After she gives her introduction in one breath, she holds out her hoof to me, almost jabbing it into my chest. I smile and put my hoof to hers. “Ink Blazer is my name. Most ponies just call me Ink.” She gives my hoof a firm shake. “Neat name. Let’s get going then, shall we?”

She smiles even wider. This behavior kind of surprises me. First of all it’s morning, and not even the normal morning ponies would be this excited. She also seemed so shy before. She would never come out to play with me and my friends. We would wave over, but she would just duck down behind the curtains, and we would continue playing. She just always seemed so reserved and quiet, especially when she was painting, but that must be a given. I give her a confused look only for a moment. “Well, are we heading to school, or what?” She asks again a she starts walking. I follow as closely as I can behind her. “Well. . Um, Artsy, how you liking it on this side of town?”

She looks back at me with that seemingly never ending smile on her face. “Oh, it’s amazing over here. Everypony seems so nice. And, it’s got great views. Especially up there.” She quickly points up towards the hill at the end of our street. Well, you know, she could of fooled me. Everypony seems so nice? She like never leaves her house. And when she does, she’s only painting, not interacting with other ponies.  But, I decide not to call her out on it, and continue our conversation. “Yeah, that is a fun place to rest.” We continue walking in a moment of silence before she speaks up again. “Oh! Do you think we will have any of the same classes?” I give a shrug.

It’s hard to tell. Usually, by the time a pony enters middle school, they already have a cutie mark. So, beside the normal classes everypony needs, they can take special classes to help them with their talent. “I dunno. I guess we’ll see.” I say. She gives me a small frown. “Why don’t you know? Don’t you have your schedule.” I blush slightly as I shake my head. “No see. . . Well.” I take a deep breath, and speak again. “I. . I don’t have my cutie mark. So the principal was going to talk to me when school started, and see what kind of classes I might be interested in trying out in my first week or so.”

Her eyes instantly travel to my blank flank, and she gasps slightly. “Oh, sorry. I didn’t know. Well, hey! Why don’t you come try out the art class I’m in!” She goes from slightly sad to happy in a millisecond. I give a small nod, and a smile. “Sure. I’ll see if I can.” She glares at me with this teasing, happy, glare. “No. Not see. You will be in there, right?” I let out a sigh, and nod again. “Fine. I will be in there. Happy?” She gives a joyes nod, and skips forward a bit. I speed up to stay close to her. “Though. I’m not that good at art. Like, drawing and stuff.” After a minute of her skipping, she finally slows down. “Neither was I at first. You just need practice. And practice you will get.” She giggles madly as if that were some kind of joke.

“Hey, Ink. If you don’t mind me asking, why don’t you have a cutie mark yet?” By this point, I somewhat expected the teasing to begin. Even my friends tease me about it. I know they don’t mean anything by it, but, it still hurts. I give a shrug. “Just haven’t found what I’m good at yet.” She gives me a half smile. “What? What you’re good at? Well, that’s why you don’t have it yet.”

I give her a confused frown, and before I can ask what she means, she continues. “You can be ‘good’ at many things. Let’s use me as an example. I can sing, I can dance. I can run for hours on end.” Last one was not surprising one bit. “But, what I am best at, is drawing. Sure, I can sing a song, sure I can dance a dance. And sure, i can run a marathon. But, when I draw, my other ‘skills’ pale in complexion.” She has a determined face as she speaks. “So. Tell me Ink. Out of everything you can do, what do you do the best?” I think over for a moment. “Well, I like writing sometimes,  and. . “

I search for something more to say, when a grim voice enters my mind. You are the best at impersonating a life, it would seen. The voice rings out through my head, and my surroundings all fade to black. “What. What’s going on?” I call out through the darkness. “Artsy? Anypony!?” Still, only silence is there. Until that voice returns. See? Look how scared you are. Best impression ever. Just like the old Ink. The voice torments me. It torments me, because I know whose it is. Ah! I’m glad you still seem to recognize my voice. I glare around the endless darkness. “Of course I recognize it! It used to be fill my head all the time.” The voice chuckles. I’m glad. Really. I am. I laugh at that. “Glad? You don’t know what’s it like to be glad  King Genesis.”

The king of my nest. Genesis. Why is he speaking to me now? How can I even hear him? I lost the hive mind a long time ago. “I’ll answer all your questions. After you answer some of mine.” His voice is more clear now. I turn around to view his tall, thin, form emerge from the darkness.His pitch black legs move him forward. His marine green hair falls over his face. He gives his head on quick flick, making all his hair move back to place, resting along his neck. He opens his eyes. They glow with a dark green, and peer right into me. His horn glows it’s black arua, shifting him into his pony form.

I watch as he shrinks down to the average size of a grown stallion. He retains his black form, but his hair shifts into a white color. His horn straightens out into a normal unicorn one, instead of the long spindly one of changelings. His eyes also shift from dark green, to dark blue. “Make this quick Genesis.” He smiles at me fondly. “Please. Refer to your king as such.” I glare at him. “Why? I haven’t been your ‘subject’ since I was kicked out.” He lets out a sigh. “Fine. Have it your way. Disrespectful little one.” He says condescendingly.

“Just hurry this up. I have a life to get back to.” He lets out a long laugh, and then walks up to me, leaning down to come face to face. “Life? You're just a hollow shell of a life. A life that has already ended.” He smirks at me, and I remain silent. “I was surprised when I heard that one of my changelings was kicked out of the nest. I would never give such an order. I hope you realize that.” I glare at him, just letting him speak on. “So, I searched for you. But, I could never find you. Till now.” I frown, and glare harder. “That doesn’t make any sense. How could you not find me! After all the time I spent in those woods. Calling for help. Eventually I was just waiting there calling for death to take me.And you couldn’t hear any of it!?”

He gives me a sad frown. “When you are the King, you can hear every single changeling speaking to you at once. It was nearly impossible for me to hear a weak voice calling for help. I have lost many changelings that way. It’s sad, but it happens.” I keep my glare steady at him. “Then why now? How could you find me now? I’ve lost the hive mind.” He shakes his head. “No, You’ve just lost the ability to hear us, and for us to hear you. But, we can still feel the emotions that flow through you. And, just recently, there has been a spike of love. I personally tracked it down to this village. It took some more time to find which pony was you exactly though.”

“How do you know about the old Ink then? You said I was scared just like him.” He smiles. “I’m the King, little one. It is my ability to know everything about a single pony. It makes it easier to take convince everypony that I am them.” By this point, I’ve heard enough. I want to make it known, but he silenced me with his magic before I could speak out. “Ah ah. still my turn.” He smirks down at me. “Anyways, dear Locum, I must ask you to return to the nest. The emotions you are carrying would be very important to us. We haven’t gotten a source this big in a long, long while.”

“No.” I state out, once I am able to speak freely again. “I’m not a Locum any more. I’m a pegasus pony names Ink Blazer. And, I would like to be left alone.” He closes his eyes, and lets out a long, disappointed sigh. “I was afraid you would say that. Just be warned, our nest has seen better days in the past. But, we are a fading species. I would not like to see the Locum die out during my reign, so, if push comes to shove, I will come back. And next time, you will not have a choice.”

With that, he fades away, and the world returns to me. I see Artsy just sitting there, smiling like always. I stand speechless for a moment. It’s like time hadn’t moved at all. “I don’t know what I’m best at yet. I’m only good at doing things.” She gives a shrug. “I doubt it. You have to be best at something. You just don’t know it yet.” She laughs, and I give a small chuckle as we keep walking. Soon, the peak of the small school house can be seen. “There it is!” She exclaims, and practically sprints the rest of the way, with me following as quickly as I can. Every other pony our age is gathered around outside. I smile, and wave over to a couple of my friends that I see. We all say our quick hellos, and they head off towards their own class.

This happens, slowly. Everypony chattering and talking, before heading towards their respective classes, trying to beat the bell. Though, Artsy is still here. “Why don’t you head to class? Bells gonna ring soon.” She shakes her head. “Nah. I can wait till it rings to leave.” I give her a soft smile. “Thanks.” Soon, the bell does ring though, and she heads off, giving me a happy wave good bye, and a small hug. With a slight blush on my face, I head into the main office doors, and up to the front desk. “Excuse me, Miss. I’m here to see the principal.” The slightly old mare peers over her glances at me, her gray eyes looking into me. “On the first day? You must be some bad trouble maker.”

I shake my head. “No. Nothing like that. See I was told to-” She cuts me off with a short laugh. “I’m only joking. I know who you are. Ink Blazer. I’m the principal. Please, just call me Verity. Miss makes me feel old.” She sticks her tongue out at me, and leads me back towards her office. “Well, enough joking aside, we are in kind of a predicament. Though, one that can easily be solved. These first few weeks of school for you will be strange. We already have you registered in all the required classes. But, that leaves a few open spots. Though you know all that.”

She takes a short breath, shuffling around papers, and gathering her thoughts. “Ah yes, now, during these first few weeks you are going to be swapping through a few different classes. This will happen till you find something that stick with you. If that is ok.” I frown slightly, and give a nod. “Yeah. That sounds great and all. But. . Umm. If it wouldn’t be a bother, could this first week have art classes?” Verity gives me a smile small, and a nod. “Sure. Have you found a liking to art recently? Your sister didn’t mention anything of the sort before.”

I give a short nod. “Yeah. It kind of interests me. Along with sports and stuff like that. I also like writing too.” She smiles, and points back at my wings. “How about flying? Anything flying related.” I shake my head. “No. I can’t fly. Not yet at least.” She gives a small frown again. “What a weird situation you are in. Isn’t it “ I know she meant that to be light hearted, but, it only makes me feel worse. Especially after seeing Genesis. Verity catched on to this, and speaks quickly. “Oh, but that’s not a problem. I’ve seen many late bloomers like you. And, I’ve seen them grow up to do amazing things.”

I give her a small smile to stop any further attempts at making me feel better. Verity shifts through some more papers, and magics things around. Soon, she slides a piece of paper forward. “Here you go. your schedule. Feel free to visit any classes during the ones that are blank. And. . “ She pauses for a moment to sift through more papers. “And this will show you where you can go, and when you can go there.” It’s a small map of the school, with a list of times and stuff on it. . Well, at least this school is prepared. I give her another smile and good bye. She hands me a note before i leave, telling me to give it to my first period teacher.

I give a curt nod, and walk down the hall, heading towards my first class of the day, History of Equestria. I stand at the door, silently. I hear the teacher rambling on and on. Something about it being the first week and so. What to expect from the class. Ect. All that normal stuff. I slide the door open slowly, and the teacher peers over at me. “Ah. And as usual, the first day late student.” I frown at him, and pass him the note. He reads it over. “Oh, my apologies. Go take a seat over there. Any open one will work” He points over towards the back of the room. Everypony in this room is a stranger to me, save for one.

Artsy is sitting there, trying to contain a large smile. I smile and walk back, taking the fortunately empty seat by her. We have no time for talk though, because the teacher continues on with his first day lecture about school and stuff. “Anyways. Since this is the first week, I will not be giving out any home work. but, we will be starting lesson one. About the Discordian Era.” The class lets out a synchronise groan of displeasure. “Now now. I’m sure you all will find this lesson to be interesting. Just you wait.”

And with that, he starts his lesson. First he passes out a textbook to each of us. “This is your text book, I would prefer for it to stay in class, but if you need to bring it home you can.”  The text book looks relatively new. At the elementary school, all the books we had were old, dilapidated, and practically falling apart. I mean, sure, we had some newer and nicer books, but the majority of them were bad. Anyways, we all open up to the first chapter of the textbook.

After the hour of class, everypony pours out into the small hallways of the school. Me and Artsy stand off to the side, and compare our schedule. “So we only got two real classes together.” I say pointing at our first period history class, and our fourth period gym class. “Yeah. Plus the art class you will be attending. Which means three. And then lunch as well.” She adds in ecstatically. I give a nod, and hear a call from behind me. I see my best friend, Blitz, running up. Blitz has been my friend for as long as I can remember. Ever since we were born. He has dark green fur. His mane and tail consists of a lighter green color. Both of which are dyed with neon yellow strips. His flank has a lightning bolt on it, half colored in that neon yellow, while the other half is in the green color. He also is a pegasus, and the tips of his wings are died the same neon yellow color. Kind of an eye sore, if you ask me. But it grows on you.

“Hey. Blitz, I thought I would never see you here.” He holds out his hoof, and I hit mine against his, and give a big smile. “Yeah. I thought I would miss your blank flank all day.” He sticks out his tongue, and I give him a soft punch into his leg. “Oh! Yeah, Blitz, this is Artsy, the new girl on this side of town.” He smiles at her. “Hey there. It’s good to finally meet the elusive filly on the block.” She gives a sheepish smile. I notice that she is trying to stay behind me, and out of his sight. What a weird filly. Around me, she seems so happy, and energetic. But the moment another pony tried to talk to her, she shrinks back into an invisible shell. Trying to hide. “Well. It was good talking to you Blitz. Class is going to start soon though, so see ya at lynch.” He gives me another high-hoof, and heads away.

“What’s the matter? Shy?” I ask Artsy teasingly. “No. Well. Yes, but no. It’s hard to explain.” There she goes, talking like it is no problem again. “It’s ok. Explain later if you want. See you third period.” Third period is when our art class will be. For now, I need to head off to my second period. Math. I like math about as much as the next pony, but I ain't bad at it. I actually pick up on it quite easily. But, I still don’t like it that much. I get into class, and I spot a couple close friends of mine. I wave at them, and take a seat close by. “Hey guys.” I say. They all say their hellos and stuff. “God, can’t wait for this day to end.” Spinner says. “Yeah. Me too. How about we all head to Crisp & Cream’s after school? We all haven’t been there in forever.” Says Spiral.

We chat idely till class begins. We settle in our seats as the teacher goes over what the class will be like. Just the usual first day stuff still. After the hour, which seems to have taken forever, finally passes I rush out of the room. I wave a quick goodbye to my friends, and heads towards the back of the school. I finally reach the art room door. I step inside, and not to my surprise, Artsy is already there, sitting right in the middle of the room. The only other pony in the room is the teacher. “Oh, why hello there. What a surprise to see you.” And, to my surprise, the teacher of this class is Verity. “I though you were the principal?” I say. She laughs, and smiles “Why yes. I happen to be the art teacher too.” She gives me a smile. “Go on and take a seat.”

With her words, I work my way through the small desks, and sit by Artsy. “Hey there. Having a fun day so far?” I ask to her. She smiles and nods. “Mmhmm. One of the best days ever!” How can somepony be so enthusiastic about school? I mean, I’m having an ok time so far. It’s just boring old school. I get to see all my friends more often now, so thats a plus side. And, how can a filly that seems so shy around anypony else be so happy about school? “Oh, hey. Artsy?” She gives me an inquisitive look. “Yeah?” I give a smile. I hope she says yes. “Would you like to come to Crisp & Cream’s with me and some of my friends? We are planning on heading there after class.”

Some ponies start filling into the room slowly as the start of class draws near. She gives me a small frown, and a look of unsureness. “Well, sure. That sounds like fun. But. . “ She shrinks back in her seat, giving me a more unsure look. “Hey. It’s ok if you don’t want to. I just thought it would be nice if you went with us.” She shakes her head again. “No! It’s not that I don’t want to go, it’s just. . “ She gets cut off as the bell rings, and Verity immediately starts speaking. “OK everypony. Settle down now. It’s time for class to start.” She speaks in a soft tone. And I whisper over to Artsy. “Talk to me during lunch.” She nods, and we settle into our seats.

“Now, you all have probably gotten the same lecture two other times. So, I’m not going to bore you with that. Just make sure you get this syllabus signed by your parents or guardian.” She passes out the class syllabus, which students instantly shuffle into their saddle bags. “You are all here because you are all interested in art, right?” Verity asks the simple question. She is met with some cough, a couple nods, and a few, light, yeahs. She smiles. “Well, art is a very general term. I won’t restrict you to one kind of art in this class. If you want to sculpt, go ahead. If you want to paint, be my guest. But, I won’t tolerate slackers. So, if you want to be in this class, then you must do work.”

She gets more nods from the class. “Well. I haven’t prepared much of a lesson plan today, so let’s just have a free day. You can find all the art supplies you need around the room. Just do not get into any drawer marked with ‘do not open.’ That usually has the more dangerous supplies in them, and I don’t want you young ones hurting yourselves. . Or others.” With that, she claps her hooves, and the students shuffle around the room. Artsy reaches into her bag, and pulls out her own sketch book, and some pencils. “Hey, how about we sketch each other.”  I give a nervous nod, and a sheepish smile.

“Uh, sure. You can do me first, ok?” I hear a student behind me giggle at that. I blush slightly after thinking about what I said, but Artsy seems oblivious. “Ok!” She flips open her sketch book. It looks pretty new, but there are already a few sketches in it. Some of small birds that scatter this area. Some of a couple rooms, probably inside her house. One sketch of the view from the hill. And, a sketch of. . Well, I couldn't quite see that one, it went by too quickly, but it looked like a pony. She stares at me for a moment, putting her hoof to her chin. “Yeah, sit there like that, But. . . .Hmm. Look out that window, don’t stare too hard, just kind of look naturally.”

I do as she says and slowly start turning towards the window. Though as I turn my head, I keep my eyes on her, which seems to upset her slightly. “No, don’t keep looking at me, look at the window.” I avert my eyes to the window, and try to be natural. “Perfect.” She says. I keep my position, and I start to hear the small scritch scratch of her pencils against the canvas paper of the sketch book. After only a few minutes, I hear the pencil stop. “Hmm.” She says. I go to turn but she instantly stops me. “Don’t move yet!” I comply, staying in position. I hear the pencil start moving again, and then stop.

“OK, it’s done. You can move.” I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding, and walk over. I take a look at the sketch. It’s amazing, really. In perfect pencil lines is my face and mane. She even went into more detail, shadowing in how the light was when I was standing there. She is very talented. Very, very talented. Verity walks over, and smiles. “That’s nice. Keep up the good work, Virtuoso.” Artsy nods, with a smile. “Thanks. Now, my turn.” She hops away, and sits where I was. “You can use my sketch book. The very back. OK?” I nod, and take it, flipping to the very last page.

“Don’t expect anything good.” I warn as I grab a pencil into my mouth. I stand there, staring between her and the paper. Soon, I just find myself looking at her. Seeing how the light reflects of her blonde mane. So, I just start drawing. Or sketching I should say. I don’t pay much attention to what I am working with on the paper, most of my attention is drawn to her, almost as if she's glowing. And the way she seems so composed while sitting there. After a couple minutes, I stop and look down. In almost the exact same way she had sketched out me, I had sketched out her.

I’ve never had much experience with art at all. If I didn’t know any better, I would say this was drawn by somepony else. But what really catches my attention about this drawing, is I drew her with a frown. She was smiling the entire time, but I drew a frown. “Well .It’s done. . I guess.” She smiles and hops over. She looks at it and tilts her head to the side. “You sure you ain’t good at this?” We both laugh, and Verity comes over. “Oh, wow. Amazing work Ink. It seems you might have a permanent spot in this class.” I smile, and glance down towards my flank. Still nothing. Gotta keep trying. “Well, everypony.” Verity starts. “All of you seem to be doing good work. I’ll let you all head to lunch early.” And with that, Artsy packs up her sketch book, and we leave to the cafeteria.

Lifes curve-ball.

Chapter 3: Lifes curve-ball.

Lunch and the rest of the day went smoothly. I was able to talk to Artsy a lot more. Apparently her brother, Crispy Craft, owns Crisp & Cream’s with his marefriend. The reason she was nervous about going is because her brother and father aren’t on the best terms recently. Nothing she could go into detail about, but I respect that. She decides to join us anyways though. So, after the gang meets up, we all head towards the town center. Strolling through the doors into the cafe. “Oh hey!” I hear Crisp call over to us. “Haven’t seen y’all in here in a while.” He stops talking abruptly when he notices Artsy. “Hey Artsy-Craftsy is here too!” He waves to his sister, and she sheepishly smiles.

We take our spot at our normal table, and just talk over the day. Though, it seems a little different now. Spiral and Spinner, twin unicorns that I met in the 4th grade, seem to be off. Spiral speaks up, her tone almost malicious as she speaks to me. “So, how’s the blank flank doing? Still trying to fit in?” Normally it would have been just light teasing. But this seems just mean. Spinner speaks up, his voice also carrying a malicious tone too. “Yeah, I’m surprised they let a blank flank like you into middle school. Should’ve kept you in elementary.” I glare between the two of them. Blitz speaks up before I can though. “What’s wrong with you two? That’s just mean.” They both laugh, and Spiral continues speaking.

“Yeah well, it’s meant to be. We’re just tired of hanging out with a baby blank flank.” She laughs more. “Like you two are ones to talk! You two only recently got your’s.” They both shrug. “So? We still got ours. before middle school.” I want to fight for myself, but Blitz just pushes forward. “God. You wonder why you used to not have any friends? You two are lucky to have somepony as nice as Ink to be your friend.”

“Yeah. Well, maybe we don’t want a blank flanks friendship anymore.” Spinner says. “Yeah. And we definitely don’t need the friendship of a shut in and an adoptee.” Spiral adds.   “Who needs you then? Just leave.” I finally speak out, my tone full of rage and anger. No pony insults my friends. They give me a nearly confused look. “Ha. Look at that sis, the blank flank thinks he can tell us what to do.” Spinner lights up his horn, and pins me to my seat. “Hey. . Lemme go!” They laugh more, and I feel myself start to raise out of my seat. “Not only are you a blank flank, you also can’t even fly yet!” They laugh more and more. But, all of a sudden, I feel myself fall back into my seat.

I see both Spinner and Spiral tapped and a cream brown magic aura. “If you two are going to act like this in my cafe, then you two shouldn’t bother coming back.” I her a mares voice say. And then, both of them are swiftly flung out of the cafe. “Th-thanks. “ I say to the mare. “Oh, it’s no problem. I’ve had some problem with them before. Once I saw them picking on you, I finally had enough. No one should pick on a friend like that. Anyways, I’m Cream. I see you’ve already met my sister in law.” Sister in law? I thought her brother was only dating this mare. Oh well, none of my business. “Thanks again, Cream.” Is all I can say. She gives a smile, and walks away, back to the back area of the cafe.

“I can’t believe those two.” Blitz says. “I don’t see why we were friends for so long.” I give a shrug. “Sometimes, I wonder that too. But I wanted to give them a chance.” I hear Artsy sigh. “Some friends, eh?” She giggles, and me and Blitz laugh. “Yeah. We won’t see them much, so don’t worry.” She nods, and grabs her milkshake, taking a big drink of it. Wait a second, that was my milkshake. “Hey!” She laughs, and sticks her tongue out at me. We continue on like that, laughing and joking around with each other. But, even though we are having so much fun, my mind keeps wandering back to Spinner and Spiral. I knew they could be bad.

We’ve seen them before, and how they would pick on other ponies. Me and Blitz never joined in, but we never stopped them either. But, this time they've crossed the line. We are. . . Were all friends. They knew every line they shouldn’t have crossed, but crossed them anyways. I start to think harder about Spiral and Spinner, ignoring the current conversation with Blitz and Artsy. Sometimes I wish those two would just disappear. Just vanish and leave everypony alone. But, here they stay. I already know that this world is unfair. And unforgiving. But one can wish that there is some form of justice out there.

I shake my head. I hate having those thoughts. I don’t mean to, but I do. “I’m heading home.” I mumble as I set out my bits on the table. I leave in silence as both Blitz and Artsy look at me, both equally confused. I walk down the long dirt road, heading back towards my home. But, instead of heading inside, I continue on words, into the backyard, and up onto the hill. This hill gives the best view of the town. You can see all the way to the edge of the town. But, the other side of the hill views right towards the forest. I reach into my saddle bag and pull out the sketchbook that Verity gifted me. She said to use it to get in more practice. I smile and open up the sketchbook to the first page. I slide the pen out of my bag, and get ready to start drawing out the forest.

“Look Spirall, the blank flank’s in our spot.” Oh no. Why did those two have to show up? I sigh, and turn to face them. “Can’t you two just leave me alone?” I say between the pen. They laugh a little, and come up to me, one on each side. Spiral speaks up. “Oh dear Ink, you really think it would be that easy?” I slide my sketchbook and pen back into my saddle bag, and try to walk away. Unfortunately, they both hold onto my shoulders. “Back off.” I shout to both of them. “No need to be so hostile, Ink.” Spiral continues speaking. I feel both of them give me a shove, making me roll down the hill. Right at the entrance to the forest. “You know, when we dared you to go in here, we thought you would never show up again. That was the plan. To get rid of an annoying little foal.” I glare at them as they finish there walk down the hill.

“Yeah,” Spinner picks up the speaking role now. “But since it didn’t work the first time, maybe it will work the second time.” I laugh at them. “What makes you think it would work this time?” The share an evil glare between themselves. “Because this time, we are going to make sure it works this time.” Spiral speaks with a cold, cruel tone in her voice. I frown. “Really? Is that was this has come to. What ever happened to the times when we were friends?” They both laugh again. “We never thought of you as a friend. Just a tag along, being pulled by our rope. Well, now we are cutting that rope.” I frown more, and finally stand back up again.

“Well. If that’s how it’s going to be, can I at least sketch you two out? Just one last sketch, please?” I plead with them to try and buy some time. Maybe I can devise an escape plan while I draw. “That’s stu-” Spinner starts to speak, but Spiral cuts in. “Fine. Let’s give him his last wish.” I smile and take out my sketchbook and pen again. I open up to the first page. “Feel free to pose if you want.” Spinner just stands there, a solid glare on his face. But Spiral shifts sideways, still facing to me, while she puts her hoof to her chin. I sigh, and start drawing. I keep my eyes level with the two of them. But, as I stare, I start to see something. They both have this. . Aura around them. I think.

It glows, just slightly. I feel myself drawn to looking into that arua as I draw. I start to feel something, a feeling I haven’t felt in a long time. I’m drawing in their emotions. I can feel all of it, happiness, joy, from all the cruelty they have caused. But, as I stare deeper, I start to feel something else. A sadness. Sadness from neglect. Sadness from abuse. I start to see into what life has thrown at them so far.

A mother who is always at work, always too busy to care for, or about, her children. A father who is a belligerent drunk, that constantly beats on them if they don’t listen to him. The bullies they used to face in elementary school, with no pony hearing their cries for help. Each and every bit pours out of them and into me as I draw. I drop the pen, and stare down at my drawing in. There, in black ink, is both of them. Both of them are laying on the ground, bruised and bleeding, trying to shield themselves from the several ponies standing to their side, either laughing, not caring, or raising a hoof to continue beating them. . . I remember this moment now.

The day we met, they were being beat up by some older ponies at school. I stepped in, and made them stop, and Blitz helped. That’s when we became friends. I sniff a little. “Does this really have to be it, you two? Remember the day when we met?” Both of them shake their heads. “No. I don’t” They both say in unison. “Maybe this will remind you, then.” I turn hand over my sketch book, Spirals magical aura taking it from me. They stare at it in silence. Eventually, Spiral rips it out the sketch, and drops my book. “Let’s go. He’s not worth the trouble.” She walks away, leaving her brother and me. Spinner looks up at me. A look of confusion on his face, next to a look of regret. “I’m. . I’m sorry.” He says then runs off to his sister.  Had they really forgotten? Or were they just repressing memories from a darker time.

And, thats when it hits me. They picked on us, not because they hated us, because they felt some ounce of jealousy. They wanted so desperately to be like me, because when they got their cutie marks was the day the got the most attention from their parents. Attention that wasn’t bad. they wanted to be in a new home, like Blitz. A home that they would never leave, like Artsy. Another reason is they picked on us, is because it finally felt good to be on the other end. But, I guess my drawing reminded them of the side they used to be on. I pick up my sketchbook, and a feeling jolts through me. I feel a glowing sensation, a warm one. I look down at my flank and see a inkwell pen start to appear. An inkwell pen resting against a small bottle of ink.

I smile. I finally found the one thing I am best at. Something that separates me from the rest. Something that makes all my other ‘skills’ pale in complexion. . . . Something that is a remnant of what I used to be. My new found talent is just a passive ability that changelings had developed over time. An ability gained through the use of magic. Magic that I could never use. Changeling magic. I let out a long sigh, as I pack up my sketchbook, and head back home. Am I always going to be reminded of what I was? I just want to be a normal pony now. Changeling magic used to forsake me, but then it gave me this new life, and now it’s basically my talent? Changeling magic is a strange and it works in weird ways.

On lifes edge.

Chapter 4: On lifes edge.

Sweet was so ecstatic about my cutie mark. Blitz and Artsy were both also happy to see it. So was I, really. But the hidden meaning behind it kind of drags my excitement down. On the bright side I won't have to be jumping through a lot of classes. Since it’s my talent now, I can stay in the art class. . But that is a general art class, so I also got put in another art class built specifically for drawing and painting. The confrontation with Spinner and Spiral was only a few days ago, and I haven’t seen much of either since. But today, while I was eating lunch, Spinner came running up to me. He was met with an instant glare from Blitz, and Artsy shrunk back into her seat.

“Ink, I need you to come with me, please.” He pleads with me. The tone in his voice is grim, and he is on the verge of tears. I am about to refuse when a police officer walks up to us. “Is this him?” The tall white stallion asks. Spinner nods. “Ink Blazer. I need you to come with us. It is important.” I give a nod, and wave good bye to an astonished Artsy and Blitz. We are put into the police car, and he speeds of. Not towards the station like I thought, but to the hospital. “Don’t worry Ink, I’ve contacted your Guardian. She knows you were pulled out of school, and what's going on.” I give the officer a smile.

“Thank you, sir. That’s nice to know. But, if I may ask, what exactly is going on?” I try to seem as calm as possible, and I try not to sound rude. The officer looks back. “That's something for your friend there to explain.” I look to Spinner, who actually is crying now. “What happened?” I whisper to him. He looks at me, a look of complete despair on his face. “He hit her.” He whispers back, through a strained voice “What?” He sniffs, and leans in close to me. “Our. . . Our father hit her. With a bottle, half full of beer. Right over her head. There was glass. . And blood everywhere.” I didn’t know what to do exactly, so I just hugged him.

He cried harder, and I just let him hug me back. “She’ll be fine. She’s tough.” I don’t know why I said that to him. I have no idea if she will be fine or not. Or if she’s already . . . I shake my head, and pull away from the hug. “She is ok, right?” There is a genuine tone of concern on my voice as I look him in the eyes. He gives me a small nod, before hugging me again. Soon. we pull right up to the doors of the hospital. A nurse rushes to us, and brings us to inside, up the elevator, and to Spirals room. Their mother is there, tears streaming in her face. She smiles when she sees us, but it’s a hollow smile full of sadness. “Ink, it’s been so long.” She mutters. She gives me a small hug, and steps over to the curtain, blocking Spiral from view. She pulls the curtain away.

It doesn’t look that bad, to be honest. But, I know it is bad. Really bad. She looks practically normal, though she is pretty scraped up. The top of her head is wrapped in bandages, completely soaked with blood that had spread from the top of her head. I gasp lightly at the sight. We all stand in silence. “He’s gone now. Taken to Canterlot to face trial. I will be heading there soon.” Their mother says. With a smile, she starts to walk away. “Thank you for coming here Ink. I need to get back to work, I have an important job that needs to be done. But, I didn’t want Spinner alone.” I give a nod, and she takes her leave. Can’t even get off work to be with her daughter. . . How disgraceful.

I look closely at Spiral, and can see the her chest slowly raise and fall from her light breathing. “She loved that picture you drew of us.” Spinner breaks the silence, and I let him keep speaking. “She framed it, and put it on her nightstand. She would stare at it for long periods of time.” He sniffs and starts crying again, this time more out of extinct then actual sadness. “Father, he came home drunk this morning. . . Again, and she finally had enough. He told her to go fetch some more beer, and she said no.”

He gives a smile. “He told her again, and she stayed firm. Saying ‘If you want more beer, get off your lazy fat ass and get it.’ God he got so red with anger. . . He asked her to repeat what she said, so she did. And she also added ‘You don’t even deserve to be called my father.’ I wanted to say something but. . “ He pauses and cries more. “I saw the bottle he had next to him get picked up in his aura. . . Then he just swung it down. Shattered instantly.”

“She yelped and flopped to the ground. ‘Disrespectful bitch.’ he called her, and started to kick her from his seat. ‘get up and get my beer now.’ he called.” I place my hoof on him. “You don’t need to say anymore. It’s over now, and you both are going to be fine.” He shakes his head. “No. I want to finish this.” He takes a long deep breath, then continues. “I went to my room, and grabbed the land line we had set up, I called the police, and told them my father just smashed a bottle over my sisters head. The police were there instantly.”

He finishes his story, and just slumps down to the ground, crying. I pick him up, and drag him over to a chair. The room is mostly silent, save for Spinners light sobbing. But, soon he speaks again. “C-can you draw her again?” I look to him. “Please. She really liked your first one. It would mean a lot to me and her if you drew her again.” I give a silent nod, and pull out my pen and sketchbook. I open it up to the next clean page. I stare at Spiral, and see the glowing energy around her again. I stare into the aura and start drawing. Slowly, line by line, I draw out her form, laying in bed.

This time is different from the last. As I stare into the aura, I feel nothing from her. No emotion of any kind. I stare deeper into the arua, trying to search for something. And, I see. . . Something. A small glimmer. A light. A glimmer that I once saw in a different pony, who was on the verge of death. Though, his glimmer faded, and went to me. While her’s only seems to grow brighter. Slowly, but it grows. I smile as I finish up the drawing. I pull out the paper neatly, and look at it.

It’s almost perfect. from her form laying in bed, to the almost peaceful smile on her face. Though, in the picture her eyes are half open, with a slight shimmer in them, and her smile seems a bit bigger too, now that I look closely at it. I set the drawing on the night table, face down. I turn to Spinner, who is only sitting silently now. He looks at me, and I give him an assured nod. “You can look at it, but, let no one else see it till she wakes up. Ok? And I know she will wake up.” I and him the drawing and he looks at it, giving a small smile, and nods. “Thank you. And, sorry again. . “ He tries to say more but I cut him off. “Hey. No hard feelings.”

That was a half lie. Of course I still resented them for what they were planning on doing. the way they treated me and my friends. But. . I can’t find room to completely blame them. They were just young kids, trying to get more attention from their parents. Even if the attention wouldn’t be good. Soon, the nurse arrives, with my sister in toe. “Ink, what happened.” I shush her instantly, pointing to Spinner, who had scooted his chair closer to his sisters bed, and had fallen asleep. She nods, and mouths ‘explain later.’ I give a nod.  “Can I stay here?” I whisper. “I don’t want to leave him alone for the night.” Sweet looks to the nurse, and the nurse gives her a nod.

“Fine. But you are going to school tomorrow.” Her voice is more teasing then it is serious. She gives me a smile, and a tight hug before leaving. The door closes silently as my sister leaves, and the nurse smiles at me. “Your friend here has been through a lot, it seems.” She gives a sad smile. “I hate stallions like her father. They are just so. . . So.” I cut her off, giving my answer. “Belligerent assholes?” She nods, giggle softly. “You probably shouldn’t be using that language.” I smile at her, but then frown, looking back to Spiral. “Umm. Will she. . .?” The nurse nods, cutting me off. “Yeah. She should be fine. Might have some minor trauma though, and possible memory loss. Slight memory loss, luckily it would be  nothing major or lasting.”

I give a nod, and the nurse walks over to Spiral. “Poor young filly.” She whispers and changes starts to change the bandages on Spirals head. The moment I see the small bald spot on her head where the wound is, I turn away. I’ve seen worse during my time spent in the forest, but I am compelled to turn anyways. Once the fresh bandages were put on, and a few other things were checked on, the nurse gives me a polite nods, and takes her leave. “I’ll be back in a minute to bring in some blankets. Would you like some water?” I give a small nod, and she walks away. As promised, a few minutes later she brings in the blankets, and a small glass of water. “Thanks.” I whisper to her, and she nods.

Once again she leaves, leaving me in silence. I stare at Spiral in her bed. I keep staring at her, trying to focus as hard as I can. But, no matter how long I look, or how hard I focus, I can not bring back that glow. The aura that helps me draw, and allows me to see into their life. I find that this world, and things in it, have a natural glow. That makes it easy to draw. But, when it comes to ponies, and possibly other living beings, I can only draw them when that glow is there. Whenever I try to draw a pony without that glow, it’s sub-par at best. Maybe I just need to practice more. I don’t know. I take the blanket, and curl up in my seat, finally letting my self rest after this long day.

I stretch out lightly, feeling my aching muscles ring out as I move. Sleeping in a chair is not a good idea. I look over to Spinner, who is still laying in his chair, right next to Spirals bed. Hey eyes are open, and she’s looking down at her brother. She looks. . . Sad. “Spiral?” I whisper over, and she glances up at me. No, not sad, empty. Like she’s hollow. She stares at me for a moment, before glancing down at her brother again. “Can I ask you something?” She looks at me again, and I nod. “Would you answer me honestly?” I nod again “Yeah. I’ll answer honestly.”

“That’s good.” She gives a small bit of a smile, before dropping back down into that empty expression. “What’s going on?” The question seems simple enough. “Well, you’re in the hospital.” I say. She keeps the blank expression on her face as she speaks again. “I mean. Why am I here?” I frown. The nurse did say possible memory loss. “Well, you got hit. Pretty hard. Over your head.” She nods. “Explains the headache.” She says as she gains a deadpan expression now, the first bit of actual emotion. “I have another question.” I nod, and wait for her to ask it. But it seems she has trouble gathering her thoughts. “Who are you two?” She finally asks.

“You two seem familiar. .  But, it’s just. . . “ She puts both of her hooves to her head, giving a pained grimace. “There’s just nothing there.” I sit there, in silence for a moment. “I’ll be right back.” I give a calm smile, and slowly step out of the room. The moment I hear the door click behind me, I take off down the hall. Conveniently, the nurse wasn’t that far away. “She’s awake.” I start out, panting softly. “Oh, that’s good.” The nurse gives a smile. I meet her smile with a frown, and continue speaking. “She’s awake, and she doesn’t know who I am. . . I don’t think she remembers anything.” The nurse opens her eyes wide. “That’s not good. Not good at all. Let’s go.” She rushes down the hall in a quick walking pace.

We reach the room, and both step in. “Hello there, I’m nurse Diarama.” She introduces herself calmly to Spiral. Spiral nods slowly, only glancing past the nurse to look at me. “This young boy here is Ink Blazer. Do you know him?” She continues on with her calm tone. “No. He looks familiar, but no. I don’t think I’ve ever met him before.” The nurse nods. “What do you remember before?” She looks away, down at the blankets. “Nothing.” She murmurs out. But the words are loud enough to hang in the air around us. “Nothing?” The nurse sounds concerned. “Yeah. Nothing but darkness. Darkness and then. . .” Spiral trails off. “And what?” The nurse presses slightly. “A light. Fallowed by splitting pain. Then more darkness till now.” The nurse looks to the ground. “I was worried about this.” She whispers to me.

We hear a soft moan, and look over to see Spinner rubbing his eyes as he wakes up. He moves his hooves to his side, and yawns loudly. The moment he opens his eyes, he lets out a loud gasp. “Spiral!” He almost leaps onto her, but the nurse holds him back with her magic. “Calm down now. We have something to explain.” The nurse drags him out of the room, and I follow closely behind.  “What’s wrong?” Spinner asks an immediate tone of concern, and a look of worry on his face. “It was what I was worried about. I thought it wouldn’t happen, it’s very rare but. . . “ The nurse trails off, taking a deep breath before explaining.

“Your sister Spiral, has lost her memories. The hit caused a temporary flow barrier. The build up could have been disastrous, fortunately her memories where the only thing she lost.” Pegasi and earth ponies have a set amount of magic energy with in them. Unicorns though, are constantly producing magic. It flows out of them. Most spells require unicorns to stop the flow to build up enough energy to cast the spell. But in rare cases a flow barrier can form, causing a large magic build up. As the nurse said, it can be deadly. “In this case,” The nurse continues. “When her magic build up was released, it was big enough to wipe out her memories. The memories are still in there, actually, but are locked away.” The nurse lets out a sigh. “Unfortunately, it’s impossible to tell when she will get them back. . . If ever.”

Spinner looks up at the nurse, tears welling up in his eyes. he wipes them away and speaks to her. “C-can't we just tell her?” He whimpers out. “No. The memories are locked away. If you try to rush them out too fast, another barrier could appear. And the results would be far, far worse.” Spinner looks down at the ground. “No treatment?” The nurse gives him a sad smile as she puts her hoof on his back. “Only time, dear. Only time. . . Look on the bright side, she can return home now.” The nurse gives sad, soft smile. We head back into the room in silence after that. Spiral is holding the picture. “It’s nice.” She says in a soft tone as she looks at us. “Who drew it?” I nervously hold up my hoof. “You’re good at drawing. . . Who’s it of?” I give a small smile. “It’s you.” She nods. “I figured. I just thought I’d ask.”

She looks at us with a smile. “Ink Blazer, right?” I nod. “And you are?” She points to her brother, who only gives a slightly hurt look. “Spinner.” He says. Silence takes over us again. She looks back at the picture, then to Spinner. She does this a couple times. “Is there a mirror?” She asks. The nurse pulls out a small mirror, and holds it in front of Spiral. “Brother?” She asks. Spinner looks up, an excited look on his face. “You remember?” She shakes her head slowly. “Oh. I’m sorry. . We just looked a like. I didn’t mean to. . .” She stops speaking. “Oh. No. It’s ok.”

She smiles at him. “Well. . You must have been worried about me.” She laughs a little, and we all let out a nervous laugh again. “Well, I’ll call in your mother soon. You’ll be able to leave soon. We all should go now, you two have school.” The nurse leads us out of Spirals room. “Spinner. I need you to go to your house, and take down any pictures that could cause trauma to resurface.” He frowns. “That won’t be a problem. We don’t have any pictures up. Our parents.” The nurse puts her hoof on him, giving a knowing nod. “You should head to school now. I’ll call up someone to give you a ride.”

By the time we arrive at school, third period is just starting. I step into art class, everypony was instantly silent when they saw me. I walk past them all, and head to my seat next to Artsy. “What happened?” She asks. I shake my head. “That’s not for me to tell.” I set my head on my desk. Even though I had a good rest, I feel so tired right now. Verity walks into the class, and starts teaching. Recently, we’ve been learning about the origins of art in general. This time I could care less about the lesson. I pull out my sketchbook, and my pen. I just start drawing slowly. I watch as the lines form on the paper, slowly but surely. My personal art. Sketches that no pony shall ever see. I draw myself. This time I’m leaning against a mirror wall. On the other side, back to mine, is a shell of what I once was. A monster. A changeling. A Locum.

I stare at the two sides of the mirror. Looking between Ink Blazer, and Tenens. Sometimes I can’t see the difference between the two of them. Between who I am now, and what I was. I close the sketch book, and slide it back into my bag. I look over to Artsy who’s only sitting there, staring at me with a concerned look. “Are you ok?” I give her a smile and a nod. No. I’m not ok. I thought once i got my cutie mark, I would love doing whatever my talent was. But, the more I draw, the more I hate it. Because I feel more like what I was when I draw. My talent is the common ability of a changeling. But I’m not a changeling. I’m not a monster.

“Oh, dear boy. Do you think that we are monsters?” I hear Genesis’s voice ring out. The entire area around me is now the blackness, and there he stands .His tall regal form in front of me. “Why do you think we are monsters?” I let out a sigh. “Because your only purpose is to steal. To take away from other ponies.” He shakes his head, and laughs “It seems your time as a pony has changed the way you think. We do not ‘steal’ we share it. If we stole it, it would disappear. Then so would we.” I look at him, and give a frown. “Why?” He frowns in turn as well, looking at me with a confused look. He opens his mouth to speak, but I cut him off. “Don’t give me that crap. What you said last time. You said someone else through me out of the nest.”

“But I know you did it. You didn’t bother searching for me. So stop with the lies. I was a disappointment to you and your nest.” He glares at me. “You insolent fool. I would never lie to my subjects. Lying only complicates things.” I match his glare with my own. “Who did it then?! Who threw me out of the nest? I deserve to know.” He frowns, and lets out a long sigh. “Your mother did. She was so distraught at having such a disgrace born under her. She had tried pawning you off on so many others. Then one night, just dropped you into the forest. Don’t worry though, I made sure she received a punishment for her actions.” I don’t even remember my mother. I don’t even try to. Why should I care about anyone from the nest.

“Let’s cut to the chase Genesis. What did you come for this time?” He smiles at me. “What, can’t I visit one of my subjects. . “ I cut him off, anger in my voice. “I’ve told you already! I’m no longer a subject of yours. I just want to be left alone.” He frowns. I feel his magic grab a hold of me, and pull me close to him. “Do not interrupt me.” He drops me to the ground. I fall flat, feeling slight pain ring through me. “Fine. I came here to try to reclaim you again. We are in desperate need. We are a dying breed Tenens.” I shake my head to him. “My name isn’t Tenens. It's Ink, please. Just call me Ink. And, what makes you think I could help you anyways?” He laughs slightly, and leans down towards me. “It would be quite simple, we would just change you back.”

His words hang around me. “No. I won’t let you.” He laughs more. “What makes you think you have a choice. Remember what I said last time? IF I had to come back, you wouldn’t have a choice in the matter.” I step back slowly, I go to turn to run, but there is no where to run. “Silly little boy. Come on now, don’t be so resistant.”  I turn to see the growing figure of Genesis. He shifts upwards, morphing into a large, monstrosity of himself. It charges at me, a full rush of darkness. I close my eyes, and flinch backwards. I fall and hit the ground hard. “No!” I shout. Nothing. I open my eyes, to see Artsy and Verity standing in front of me. “Ink. Are you alright?” Verity asks. “I. . . Wha. . Huh?” Is all I manage to stammer out. I get back onto my hooves.

“You fell asleep. Verity let you sleep through class. We got worried when you started groaning, like you were in pain. We were just about to wake you up, but you fell out of your seat.” I nod slowly as Artsy explains. “It was just a nightmare.” I whisper to myself, feeling completely relieved. I shake myself, waking myself up completely. “I’m fine. There isn’t any need for worry. just haven’t been able to sleep well.”

I give a convincing smile to the both of them. They share a worried glance, but smile anyways. “That’s good, both of you head off to lunch now.” Verity tells us ,and we scamper off together, out of the room. Once we grab our lunch, we head to our normal table. Sitting there is Blitz, who is glaring over at Spinner. “Hey guys.” Spinner waves sheepishly at us. “You came to school?” I ask him. He gives a small nod. “Yeah. Spirals at home resting, she should be here tomorrow. Oh, yeah. Here.” He hands me a framed picture. It’s the one I first drew of them. “Keep this for now, till . . You know.”

I hear Blitz grunt. “Ok, I’m going to ask it now. Why are you two so buddy buddy now?” I frown slightly. “Should we explain?” He frowns, but nods anyways. After going over the details, I see that Blitz has dropped his serious expression, giving Spinner a sorry look. Artsy looks like she’s on the verge of tears. “That’s. . That’s so horrible.” She sniffs out. “Yeah. On the bright side, we can be friends again . . Right?” Spinner asks, and Blitz sighs. “Fine. I’ll give you a chance.” They share a small smile.

“Hey, before I forget, Spiral wanted me to give you this as well.” He hands me a small, folded, piece of paper. I unfold it, and read the slightly messy writing. “She can’t use her magic just yet, so she had to write it by mouth.” I give a nod, smirking slightly. Ahh, a unicorn who knows our pain. Anyways, I read through the lines written on the paper. ‘Ink. I don’t know much of anything at the moment, as you know. All I really have is a vague familiarity of a life forgotten. I wanted to ask if you could meet me at the big hill. I want to talk to you, and that place just seems perfect. Probably some old memories, right? Anyways, it just seems proper, since you were the first pony I met when I woke up. Also, that picture you drew was absolutely amazing. I’ll explain more later, if you would be so kind to meet me at the hill.’

Wow. I didn’t know Spiral could be so well spoken. She’s always been more. . . Blunt with the way she speaks. But, I guess in a sense, she is a different pony. I fold the note back up, and put it in my saddle bag. “Thanks.” I say to Spinner, who gives me a nod. “How’s everything at home?” He gives shrug. “Pretty much the same. . . Just, you know, quieter.” He laugh, half heartedly. “You’re not saying that you actually.  . .”  He shakes his head. “No. I’m glad we won't be seeing him anymore. . But, it’s just kind of weird to see him gone. I thought I would have to leave before he did.”  He lets out a wistful sigh.

“So. . Wh-what happened?” Blitz asks, slightly nervous. “If, that’s ok of us to ask?” Artsy adds in. Spinner looks to me. “Only if you want to tell them.” I say to him. He gives a smile, and nods. He tells them about what happened. A shortened version at least. Ending with telling them about the amnesia. “That’s horrid.” Artsy says through a gasp. Blitz stares at the ground. “Horrid? You think that’s horrid. Well, I personally think she deserved it.” I hear Artsy gasp. “Blitz. How can you say that.”

I look to Spinner, and see him looking at the ground. “No. He’s right. We both acted horribly. But, if you think she deserved that, then what should I deserve? Spinner looks up to blitz, staring him in the eyes. “You? Well, why don’t you take a small trip into the woods then? And spend the night.  Have a taste of what you made others do.” Blitz says, and holds out his hoof. “Deal?” To mine and Artsys surprise, Spinner shakes his hoof. “Deal.” He says solidly.

Nightlife.

Chapter 5: Nightlife.

I walk up the small path, with Blitz and Spinner in toe. “I still think this is a bad idea. And I know Spiral will say the same.” I say, looking back at the two. Finally we reach the top of the hill, and I find Spiral resting there. “Hey, Spiral. I’m here. . . And I brought guests.” I give a disgruntled mumble as I look back at the two of them. She stirs awake, and gives a yawn. “Oh! Thanks for coming, Ink. . . And, you two.” She waves at her brother, and Blitz. “Though, I don’t know you.” She points to Blitz. “Blitz.” He says, giving the nicest smile he can.

“Oh. Nice meeting you then.” She smiles, and I turn to the two of them. “You two head down there. I want to talk to Spiral first, and fill her in.” The give a few small nods, and walk down the opposite side. “Where are they going?” Spiral asks, with a hint of nervousness on her voice. “Don’t worry. Nothing bad will happen. I’ll make sure of that.” Even though I put strength behind my words, I can’t help but to watch as they walk down the hill. Blitz wanted Spinner to stay the night in the woods alone, but I wouldn't allow that, so I volunteered to go with him.

“Well, you wanted me to come here and talk . . . So lets talk.” She gives a small smile. “Thanks, again. Well, you see. . . I was wondering if you could tell me. . . Tell me.” She starts speaking, but trails off, her voice fading out. “Tell you what?” I ask, as I step a little closer to her. “That picture you drew. . . It was perfect. I mean, it matched every detail of me. It was really lovely.” She seems to be sidestepping what she wants to say, but, I let her take her time. I shouldn't rush her. “Thanks. I do my best at drawing those. . . It’s what I’m best at.” I give a goofy little grin, causing her to laugh a little. “I can tell. You have a good eye for detail. . “ She looks to the ground, and takes a deep breath. “Anyways, the reason I asked you to come here. . . I was wondering if you could possibly help me. . “ She trails off again.

I give her a big smile. “Sure. . What do you need help with.” She looks up. “Help me start this life. . By. . Umm. . Maybe you could possibly help me by going out with me?” Her last sentence comes out quickly, and jumbled. But I catch every word of it. I notice the large blush on her face. I stand there, in utter shock. Spiral, asking me out? The nurse mentioned something, before I left the hospital.

“Now, be careful with Spiral, she may have lost her memories. . But there is still something in there. Things that seem familiar to her. So, she could possibly act on emotions that she had before, without realizing it. Help her adjust to it slowly. Can you do that for me?”

I had given the nurse my word that I would help her adjust. . But, could Spiral have had feelings for me before? I mean, she always seemed to treat me kind of nicer, compared to every other pony . . Still treated me badly, but not as bad. I look back, towards the town, looking at the roof of Artsy’s house. I think she likes me, and I like her too. I can’t possibly betray me feelings. . Can I? I promised to help though.  “So, I can take that as a no?” I hear Spiral say, in a sigh of depression. “No!”

I shout out to her, and she perks up. “Wait, you mean?” Well. . It looks like I’m stuck now. “Yes. I’ll help you.” I say, as I give her a wide smile. She jump over to me, hugging me tightly. “Oh! Thank you!” With that, she gives me a soft kiss on the check, and starts prancing off down the hill, towards her home. “See you tomorrow, Ink.” She calls out. . . .

Did I just make a mistake? Oh great Faust, what have I done? I let out a sigh, and head down the hill, towards the forest. “What was that about?” I hear both Blitz and Spinner ask at once. “Long story.” I say through a sigh. “It’s going to be a long night, so please, let’s just get it started.” Blitz lets out a groan as he crosses his hooves. “Ink. I really don’t want you going in there. Why can’t we just leave Spinner here. See how he likes being ditched.” I shake my head. “No. I can’t just leave him in good consciousness. I know you can. But I can’t.” Blitz sighs again.

“Fine. But, I swear to Celestia, if he returns without you, He’ll be one sorry colt.” Blitz Glares daggers at Spinner, who only shrinks back. “Nothing will happen. I’ve done this before, haven’t I?” I give a big smirk to Blitz, who only frowns. “Yeah, you have. And almost died.” I laugh. “Well, I didn’t. So, again, no need to worry.” Blitz lets out one more groan, and heads to the top of the hill. “I’ll be right up here.” He calls down to us. Me and Spinner look at each other, and give a solid nod. Stepping into the woods together.

Even though the sun had just been setting, this place makes it seem like it’s already midnight. It’s a scary thought that not even Celestia’s light can penetrate the horrid dark branches of this place. I feel a chill of cold air blast through me. “You gonna be ok?” I ask over to Spinner, who is shivering, hard. “Y-y-yeah. . Just a little nervous to be honest.” I frown at him, shaking my head. “In here you can’t be nervous. It attracts the creatures from deep within.”

He gives a nod, and tries to put a stop to his shivering, failing slightly. “Hey. It’s ok. Nothing will happen as long as we don’t go too far in, and we stay on the path. I know a place we can rest.” He gives me a smile, and I feel his shaking calm down more. After a minute of walking, I hold out my hoof, in a small clearing. “Here we are. Right near the edge so we can run if we need to.” I say as I point towards the open gaps between the trees.

I walk around the small clearing. . I never thought I would be back here. But, I guess it would have had to happen at some point. I walk slowly up to a old, worn tree. I place my hoof against the, now, barely legible words. Words that are still clear in my mind. “What does it say?” I jump, not hearing that Spinner had walked up behind me. We stay silent for a moment, before laughing. “Sorry.” He says between breaths. I shake my head. “It’s ok. . .Anyways, the words wouldn’t matter to you.” He gives me a confused look after his laughing subsides.

“So? I still wanna know.” I give a sigh. “Fine. . It says ‘Ink Blazer lays here.’ “ I feel a pain in my chest as I speak these words. Please, don’t ask too much into it. He only gives me a more confused look. “It was a joke. That night a year ago. When I was dared to sleep in here.” Spinner looks at the ground, feeling guilty again. “Well, it was after the attack. I hurt. . I hur a lot. I thought the pain would never end. So, I decided, if I was going to die. Might as well mark it here.” I say, as I rub the worn out letters. “This is where I was found.” He gives a small nod.

“Anyways, that’s the past. And this is now. Let’s hope we have a safe night.” I take in a big gulp of air, as I look around the ever darkening parts of this forest. “Yeah. I’ll unpack.” With his magic, he swiftly pulls out, and unrolls a couple sleeping bags. As he does this, I slowly turn to look at the tree again. It has been over a year since it happened. It’s weird. To be standing here again, after so long. I wonder what would’ve happened if I never happened upon that young pony. Where would I be now? If I would still be alive at this point, that is.

I shake my head, ridding myself of those thoughts. “Say, Spinner?” He glances up at me. “Yeah, Ink? What is it?” I let out a long sigh. “What would you think of me and Spiral going out?” He just stands there, staring at me. “What?” He says, after that long moment of silence. “She asked me out. . And I said yes.” After another long moment of silence Spinner lets out a long sigh. “I thought she got over that.” He says, with a half chuckle. “She used to crush over you a lot when we were younger. Though, after we got our cutie marks, and started acting. . Acting like idiots, really, I thought she gave up on that.”

“Well, the nurse at the hospital said that she could act on old emotions. . Or something like that.” He gives a shrug. “That would make sense. But, I don’t mind. Just don’t hurt her, ok? I know how you look at that other filly. . Artsy.” I give a sheepish smile. “Yeah. It’s not that  I don’t like you sister. . Just not like how I like Artsy.” We laugh a little. “Well, what about you, Spinner. Do you have a crush on any pony?”

“Well. . .There is this one filly. . We only have one class together at school, but she lives right across the street from me.” I think for a moment, before gasping slightly. “Wait. . You don’t mean?” He gives a sheepish nod. “Yes. I have a crush on Argent.” Argent. . I would’ve never guessed. Spinner having a crush on Blitz’s sister. He lays down across his blue sleeping bag, putting his hoofs to his chin. “She’s just amazing. . Always so nice .And she’s pretty as well. That lovely creamy green coat of hers.” I laugh a little.

“Well, I wish you luck with that.” I tease him slightly. We laugh a little more. But, when we hear a crack, coming from the deeper parts of the forest, we silence instantly. We stay silent, as we hear small, thunderous booms, coming right towards us. Before we have any chance to act, a large, dark mass leaps out at us, wrapping us in darkness. I hear Spinner grunt. “This stuff. . It’s . . It’s magic.” Unicorns have always had a talent at sensing other magic. “W-what kind?” I ask, as I feel it tighten around me.

Though, he doesn’t need to tell me. I already know. This magic is familiar to me. Locum magic. I can feel it. But. why are they this close to the edge? “Look at what we found here, brother.” I hear the raspy, chattery voice of one changeling speak out. “Two small ponies, talking about their, delicious little love.” The other one replies. “The king should be pleased that we have found, at least a small source of food.”

The king. What he said before. “You’ve just lost the ability to hear us, and for us to hear you. But, we can still feel the emotions that flow through you.”  I only want to live a normal life. But, Will I always attract changelings to me? Will I always be a constant threat to the ones I love. “What are you two doing?” I hear another voice ring out. A female changelings voice. One that is vaguely familiar to me. “General Flare. . We. . We were just patrolling the area. We felt a large gathering of emotions in this area. We wanted to bring food.” They scrambling changeling tries to stutter out his sentence, but he is cut short by the larger changeling lady. “This is not how we do things.” Me and Spinner are dropped to the ground, as she uses their magic against them, trapping them with their own snare.

“We do not just attack helpless, young ponies. We do not carelessly come out to take emotions. We are changelings, changing is in our nature. And, we use that nature to blend in, so we can siphon  the overflowing emotions, so that we can live on.” She lets out a long sigh, as she looks between the scouts. “Now. Consider yourselves lucky. This time I will let you off with a warning. But I swear to the High-Queen, if you put even the slightest thought of going cross the border, it will be your last.” Her voice grows darker as she threatens them.

With the end of her lecture, she casts them away, throwing them deep into the woods again. She steps closer to me, and the now passed out Spinner. “Must have been to much for the young one to handle. Poor little colt.” I finally get a good look at her. She stands tall, almost as tall as Genesis. Her mane is long, and flowing. It’s the normal green, but it has red highlights in it. Her black body shimmers with what little light reaches this place. She has, almost caring dark blue eyes as she looks over Spinner,

Her wings are long, just like any changeling in the royal family would have. But, she was just called a General. Many questions run through my mind. I watch her horn light up, as she makes sure he has no serious injuries from the snare.  Many questions run through my mind. I want to ask them. . But, what would she think? And, what if Spinner wakes up while I’m talking to her? “How are you, young one?” Her voice breaks me out of my deep thoughts. Something about her voice still seems familiar. I can’t quite place it though.

“Uh. . I umm.” She smiles at me. “Oh, no need to fear me young one. Here, let me take a form that you would be more used to seeing.” I watch as her magic surrounds me. I watch as a light brown, almost tan, fur spreads over her body as she shrinks down to the size of an average mare. Her eyes blink into a ruby red color. The green in her mane shifts into a lighter color than her fur. Her mane shortens, becoming all wild looking, with red and tan mixing around it. Her tail shifts into the same colors as her mane, becoming as equally as messy. Her cutie mark is just a small flame.

“I’m Flare.” She says, as she steps closer to me. “And, what’s your name, young one?” I glare at her steadily. “Ink Blazer. He’s Spinner.” I motion over to his passed out form. There are still millions of questions running through my mind. The biggest one though, is. “Who are you?” I say out loud. I keep my glare steady on her. “I’m Flare.” I shake my head. “Don’t give me that. You’re not fooling me. Who are you, exactly.” She frowns at me. “I’m Flare, lead General of King Genesis’s army.” I give a solid nod.

Her name, nor face,  brings any familiarity to my mind. I would’ve remembered meeting a high ranking member of the army. But her voice. “But, I doubt you barely understand what a changeling is. I know your pony schools don’t teach much about us. Not that we don’t mind. We prefer the shadows over the light.” She gives a smile. I glance over to Spinner. He’s out cold. I let out a sigh, as I look her in the eyes.

“I know more than you think.” I give a stern look of defiance to her. I keep my glare on her, as she gives a small frown. “What ever you say, young colt. But, I am afraid that you shall not remember this brief meeting. We all have our own secrets to keep. This will only be a nightmare to you soon.” Her horn lights up, and she shifts back into her normal changeling form. I watch as her green magic reaches out, and wraps around Spinner. I watch as it approaches me. I feel electric tingles shoot through me, the moment it touches me. They grow stronger, and stronger, till I feel like I am about to burst from the shear amount of energy rushing through me.

Sparks start to rush out of me, scorching small parts of the ground. Nearly setting a tree or two on fire. “W-what are you!?” I hear Flare shout as she retreats back slightly. I feel all the energy rush out of me quickly, sending a small shockwave out. I stand up, barely keeping my hooves on the ground. Everything seems to be spinning. “Get away from them!” I hear Blitz’s voice ring out from behind us. I fall back to the ground as the world spins, and fades to black before me.

Another life in the night.

Chapter 6: Another life in the night.

A world that hates me. A world that shuns, and fears me. That is the world I live in. They hate who I am. The fear what I am. I am shunned for my difference. All the ponies look at me as if I am an evil spawn of my father. They cast him out long ago, and it’s only time before they do the same to me. As each second ticks, their hate grows stronger. As I grow, so does their fear.

I was never given any choice in life. My father. . The root of my problems. A changeling, under disguise lived here. He fell in love, married, and had me. But not long after my birth, he was found out. Even though he had practically grew with them, they chased him away as if he were just some filthy vermin. From then on, they looked at me as if I were the same vermin my father was. I look a lot like my mother. I have the same mane and tail as her. Both long and flowing, colored dark peach. My mane has light pinks strips, and my tail just has one thick light pink stripe in it. My fur color is even the same light peach color as hers.

But, there are two things that make them see me as my father. First, is my eyes. They are dark green, like his. And the second is this horn atop my head. If I had a single bit of control of this life, I would rather not have either of those things. I wish I could have pink eyes, like my mom. Be an earth pony, like her. I wish I wasn’t my fathers daughter. But, I am, and this is the life I was given. The life that I strive to change.

It was better when I was younger. They had thought that I would be completely different from my father, like he had never existed and I was some sort of miracle, virgin birth. But, their hope vanished as I grew. They only saw more and more of my father in me as I grew. It doesn’t help that my talent is illusion magic.I can easily make something look like something else, with enough concentration. I can even change what I look. But there is no point. They already know, and it would only make their fear grow quicker.

I just did what came naturally. A nature that I grew to hate. Everypony started keeping their distance from me. other foals my age were told to stay away from me. It had gotten to the point where I couldn’t even step outside in the daylight, for fear that I would be tormented again. That I would hear the others call me those names. ‘there’s the bug.’ or ‘look, here comes the monster. Better stay away.’

I started taking solace in the night. At night, I could walk freely. At night, I didn’t have to hear those hurtful names. I could just walk, and be me. I wouldn’t have to worry about causing others panic, by walking out and about, because they all locked themselves inside during the night.

So, that’s what I do. My mother has me stay inside all day. She’s a teacher, so she teaches me at home, instead of letting me go to a normal school. Of course, I was never asked my opinion on that. I watch the sun set, as the day draws to a close. I watch as the brilliant moon rises. And, once my mom is sound asleep in her bed, I sneak out right through the front door. And, I just walk. I walk down the streets of this small town. I’m pretty sure I’ve walked just about every street possible.  The old, dirt and cobblestone paths. To the more newer concrete pathways. I look at how the moon shimmers across every surface. I listen to the sounds of the nighttime.The nighttime is a truly lovely time.

Tonight is the same as every other night. I hear my mother's door close gently, her thinking that I am already sound asleep in my bed. I slide out of my room slowly, and then down the stairs. I use my pink magic aura to open the door, and close it quietly behind me. The sight from my porch is, in my opinion, the best site ever. I live in a smaller area of this town, no buildings, or bright lights to obstruct the view of the sky. I can watch the moonrise slowly into the sky from her. Watch as it glimmers down. “Oh, Princess Luna, your nights are always lovely.” I whisper to myself, as I begin my routine walk.

I start by walking down my street, to the very end. I take a small turn to the left, to head closer to the center of this town. I never pay attention to the ground when I walk anymore, I just stare up into the sky, looking at the beautiful round moon, and the millions of sparkling stars. After a few minutes of walking around the town, I turn back towards my house. But, instead of heading directly home, I walk past it, down the other side of the street. My house is built right on the edge of the town, so this path leads away from home, away from the life I live, and into an open field, full of moonlight.

This is where I practice my magic. For as much as I hate having these abilities at all, I practice with the hope that I can show the others that I’m not my father. But, I don’t think they will ever be swayed. Only my mother understands me, but even she is scared as well. Sure, she loves me, and my father. But, she fears the pain that we both cause. It’s not like we mean to. He just wanted a life. I only want a life. “Why must life be this cruel?” I whisper into the soft wind, as it rushes past me.

“Why can’t I just live the way I want to?” I ask, as I start to feel the tears well up in my eyes. I try to quickly wipe them away. I can’t cry. I won’t cry. Anytime I cry, he shows up. He always shows up when I’m sad. “Fantasm. . You’re crying. . . Again.” I let out a sigh, and turn to make sure he is behind me. I don’t like seeing him. I keep my eyes closed tightly. Whenever I look at him, I can only see his dark green eyes. I can only see me, looking at what I might become.

“Please, father, just leave. I’m fine. I just want to rest.” I speak, without ever glancing to him. “Fantasm, please. You always shut me out. I know I’ve made life hard for you. I know Ive made mistakes. I wish I never had. I wish I could be there with you, living a lovely life.” He goes to speak more, but I turn around, interrupting him. “Stop wishing!” I yell at him. “Wishes won’t help. Nothing will help change this life.” I take a long breath, as I stare into his dark green eyes.

“My offer is always open. . . “ He speaks out slowly. I turn away from him again, marching back towards town. “No, father. I will never join you at the nest. What would make life different there, then it is here? I won’t be treated with any respect. I’m not even a complete changeling. I’ve only got some magic.”

I keep walking in a silence, and turn to see my father walking back, disappearing into the thick woods. That’s pretty much what every meeting with him is like. I work my way back down the small street, and into my house. “And where have you been, Fanty?” I let out a sigh, as I look into our small dining room, seeing mother sitting there. “I went out for a walk.” I mumble, as I step into the dining room. “Oh, Fantasm, you know how dangerous it is out there. . “ I put my hoof up, silencing her lecture. “Mother. I know you care for me. I love that you do that, and I love you. But, the night is far less dangerous than the day, for me. You know how they all act.”

This is the only thing that I dislike about mother, she always treats me like a little foal, even though I’m almost an adult. She lets out a long sigh, taking a sip from a small cup of coffee. “I know. . I know. . It’s just that. . I don’t want to lose you. . Not like.” I see the tears well up in her eyes, as she starts thinking about father. I wish I could hug her, and tell her she won’t lose me. That I’ll always be here for her. But, we both know that isn’t true. That I will have to leave one day.

And, as I hear the breaking of glass, coming from the living room, I realize that one day, might be sooner than expected.

Life lived on the edge.

Chapter 7: Life lived on the edge.

The shattering glass, the yells from outside. Light starting to pour in from the rising sun. I could be asking several questions. Why is this happening? Whats going on? Questions like those. But, I already know the answers. The only question I ask myself is. “What now?” I scream over to my mother. We had feared this day. The day the fear of others would grow to large, and they would cast me out like my father before me. “Run. Run as far as you can. And, promise me Fantasm, for your safety, do not look back. Can you do that for me? I’ll be fine. So don’t worry. Just promise me that you’ll be fine.”

“I promise. I’ll stay safe. I swear.” I say as I start to tear up a little bit. I give my mother one last hug, and run for the back door to the house. Before I can go, mother grabs me one last time. “And Fantasm. Please, try to have a happy birthday, even if it will be far from home.” I smile, and give my mother a small kiss, as I rush out into the morning, the morning of my birthday. And I keep running. I run as far as I can from home, till I reach the field I normally sit in at night.

I know I promised my mother, but, some part of me needed to look back. To get one last look at what I’m leaving. And, as I turn to look back, I can’t help to feel happy. Sure, I’ll miss mother. . But, I can finally start a life. Before, I was stuck in that village. If I had left at night, that would’ve only caused a huge uproar. But, now I’ve been cast away. I can go somewhere else without the fear of being known as a runaway. I see the village, the edge of it barely visible in the morning light. I turn away again, and keep walking.

Eventually, after walking along the long field, I come across a small dirt path. The farthest I've ever been from home, was just one edge of this field. Now I am on the complete other side, home isn’t even in sight anymore. I don’t know where this path will lead. I don’t know if it will bring me to a new home. But. it’s the only thing I’ve got for now. I place my hoof on the dirt path. It doesn't feel like that dirt paths from the village. This feels more rough, not as well kept. . .It feels more natural. I think I love this feeling.

So, I walk upon the dirt path. I walk for hours, and hours. I watch as the sun slowly crosses the sky. The day does have it’s merits. It sheds a different light upon things. But, I still keep a fond belief that the night is a million times more beautiful. But, the night also carries dangers that the light does not. And as I watch the light die as the sun sets, I realize that those dangers are only drawing nearer. “Fantasm!” I turn around on the dirt path, to see my father standing there. “What happened? Why are you so far from home?” He gives me a look of concern. “What do you think happened, father! They cast me out like they did to you!”

I yell at him, and start to stomp away. Seeing the edge of a new town, barely lit by candles. “I had a fear that would happen. But, now you can come with me, back to the nest.” I shake my head, as I stop in my tracks. “No. I will never be apart of the nest. I barely fit in with the ponies back at home.” He steps up to me, placing his hoof on my shoulder, only for me to shrug it off. “Fantasm, I already talked to Queen Hydra. You are free to live in the nest.”

“No. I don’t want to be a charity case. Look, I have the chance to live a true life now. There.” I point to the distant town, silhouetted by the setting sun. My father looks past me, with concern. “No. Fantasm. You can’t live their.” I glare at him. “What? You can’t control me. Why not anyways?” He sighs. “It’s just that. . . I won’t allow it.” I laugh. “Won’t allow it? What a joke. You may be my father. But you have no power over me! I’m on my own, and I want to keep it that way. Do you know how much damage you caused in my life? What makes you think you can control it?”

He lets out a long sigh, dragging his hoof across his face. “Fantasm. Please. I’m only trying to. . “ I turn away from him, and run towards the town. I hear his hoof steps close behind me. “Just stop!” I call back to him. “No! Please, Fantasm!” I finally reach the town, I feel myself trip barely as the dirt path turns into a cobble stone one. I steady myself, and keep running. “Fantasm. Stop!” I skid to a stop, turning to face my father again. “Listen here. Fa-” I start to shout, but he puts his hoof to my mouth. “Shh.” I glare at him, and smack his hoof away. “Stop it! Just stop trying to control me!”

“Fantasm. Be quite. Some ponies are trying to sleep.” He says through an angry whisper at me. “Do you think I care! What do they have to do with our problems, Fa-” A voice from behind me cuts me off again. “Father?” I turn to see a small, unicorn, foal standing in the open brightly lit doorway. Eyes wide and confused. Eyes that share that seem green color. “Oh. I see now.” I say, finally speaking in a whisper. “is that it?” He shakes his head. “Dear, head back inside. Daddy will be in for dinner soon.”

I feel my face twitch in anger. “Really? So, it wasn’t a coincidence that I met you while walking here on that dirt path? You were coming here too. What about all those times that you said you loved mother? All the times you said you loved me? All the times you said you just wanted to be with us again!” I start out in a quite, low growl. But as I talk, I grow into another yell. “Fantasm. It’s true. I have another family. But, I still love my first all the same.” I sigh, and shake my head. “I know what you are father. And, you should know it doesn’t work that way. Love isn’t something that can easily be shared. Not between two families.”

“Fantasm. . Please.” He reach out his hoof, but I only step away from it. “No. I won’t hear it.” I want to run away again, but as I watch the moon rise, I realize I have no where to go. I step close to him, and whisper.  “Let me stay the night here. You owe it to me. I’ll be gone in the morning. I just need a place to sleep. I wont tell them anything about the life you had before them. But, I want you to promise me that you’ll stop trying to be my father. That ship has sailed.”

“I can’t just stop loving you though. But. . . If you really think that this is best for you. Then . . “ It looks like this is hurting him to say, but he says it anyways. “Then fine. I’ll leave you alone.” He lets out a sigh, as he walks past me, head hung low, up to his door. “Please, come in.” I hear the solid tone of sadness on his voice. The sound of a broken stallion. Of a broken father. At least he has a another family to fall back on. Unlike me, his dear, beloved, old daughter. Who apparently can be easily replaced.

After calming down, I walk up the small steps, and walk through the open door. It’s a small place, almost quite like my old home. But, it’s a lot. . . Brighter. I mean, my house was lovely. It had nice darker, calming tones. This house is so brightly colored. It’s giving me a headache. “Oh! Who’s this? You didn’t mention any guests for dinner, Obsidian.” Well, he uses the same name as before. Anyways, I look at a pegasus mare who just spoke. She seems only a few years younger than my mother. “This is Fantasm. She’s from out of town, and only need a place to stay. I was good friends with her. . . Father, before I came here.”

He stumbles over his words slightly, but the mare doesn’t notice. She only gives a wide smile. “Well then, we always have an open guest room. And, an open seat at the table. Feel free to stay as long as you like.” I shake my head politely. “Oh no. It’s just for the night. I’ll be leaving in the morning.” She frowns slightly. “Well, ok. But, really, if you ever need a place to stay. Oh, and where are my manners. My name’s Cotton Melody. Please, just call me Cotton.” I give a nod. “Well, thanks for letting me stay here.”

“It’s no problem.” I hear father say. “Anything to help.” He smiles. He’s trying to be nice. To show me that he can help me. But, it ain't working, dear old dad. “Well, Fantasm, was it? If you don't mind me asking, what brings you to this town, and why are you leaving so soon after getting here?” Cotton sure seems to be curious. Might as well oblige her. “Well, my father recently passed away, bless his heart.” I happen to only give a small glance at my father, seeing him grimace slightly. “But, he lived pretty far from home. So, I’m traveling to get to his funeral.” I hear Cotton gasp.

“Oh, poor dear. I’m sorry for your lose.” I shake my head. “No need to be sorry. Me and my father weren't very close. . But. . . It’s only right to say a proper goodbye.” I give a sad smile. My mother always told me I would make a good actress if I tried. But, that would only make me more like my father. A life that’s just an act. “I’m hungry. . Can we eat now?” I hear the little foal from earlier call out. “Yes. We’ll be right out. But, I need to quickly fix up another plate.”

“Thanks, but I can make it myself.” Cotton shakes her head. “Nope. You’re our guest. It would be my honor to make your plate.” She laughs, as if that were some kind of joke. I give a small chuckle as well. “Fine, fine.” I give a small smile again. “Obsidian, bring her to the dining room.”  My father gives a nod, and motions me to follow him. We walk in silence, and reach the small dining room. They have a pretty big table for a family of three. “Take a seat right there, Fantasm.” He points at the spot right next to his other daughter. “Who’s this daddy?” She asks, as she looks up at my, her dark green eyes shining, almost like she’s in awe of me.

“This is Fantasm. Fantasm, this is Onyx Heart.” Cute name. “Hello.” I say down to her, giving her a wide smile. “Hi.” She says, shrinking slightly into her seat now. “She’s kind of shy.” Father chuckles out, as he takes his seat. “So. . Why were you and daddy arguing outside?” For a shy kid, she sure asks big questions. “Well. . “ I start, but I hear Cotton call. “You two were arguing, what for?” She peeks into the dining room. “Well. .It’s just that.” I stammer, looking between all of them. “She asked me to come to her father's funeral because-” I was panicked, so I cut him off. “Because they’re brothers.” I speak my words quickly.

All three of them just stared at me in silence. Cotton looks shocked. Onyx looks . . Like the confused little foal she is. . Oh, sweet innocence. And Obsidian, my father. . . He just looks slightly amused. “Yes. brothers. But, with how my work has been recently I can unfortunately not make the funeral.” Cotton shakes her head. “Oh. Nonsense. Family is more important. You should go.” Onyx finally speaks up, in her confusion. “Does that mean we’re related?” She says, looking at me with those green eyes. “Yes. I guess. . . . I guess that does.” I give her a smile.

“Cotton, I don’t think my boss would appreciate me taking time off to-” She cuts him off, holding up her hoof. “It’s family, dear. I know he will understand. . . Speaking of family, I should’ve known earlier, you have those same green eyes, Fantasm. And you’re a unicorn” Again, here I am, being defined by my eyes and my horn. “Yes. The family traits.” I laugh out, slightly. My plate is half finished, and I’m starting to feel sick to my stomach. “If you could excuse me, where's the bathroom?” Cotton points down the hall. “Down there, to the left.” I nod, and rush away from the table.

I close the door behind me swiftly, and lock it. I glance in the mirror as I rush by, seeing those green eyes staring at me. I’m sickened even more at the sight. I reach the toilet, and my stomach empties all that I had just eaten. The taste is horrid. After my fit of sickness, I walk back over to the mirror, and sink. I keep my eyes closed, and turn on the water. I lean in, and wash out my mouth.

There is a soft knock on the door. “Fantasm, are you ok?” Cottons muffled voice speaks out. “Y-yeah. . Just. . Just. . Under the weather slightly.  I’ve walked for a long time.” I hear some more hoof steps shuffle outside the door. “She ok?” I hear my father ask. “Yeah. just exhausted. . The poor dear. . . Well, your rooms just right across from the bathroom. You should rest up.” I hear Cotton call back. I hear her foot steps shuffle away. “Fantasm. . We need to talk in the morning. After we leave.” I finally open my eyes, and stare into my reflection. I glance back as well, at my cutie mark. My mother says its a spark, just ready to burst into flames. I tend to believe that it’s a dying ember.

Either way, it represents change. It shows my talent of illusion, of change. It shows my father, a changeling. No matter how I look at myself, I see him. It’s only what the others saw as well. I feel myself starting to get sick again. I look away from the mirror, and step across the hall slowly. I look around the small room. It’s a small gray room, pleasantly kept. The bed is average sized, with blue sheets on it. I walk over, and lay on the bed. I look out the window, out into the night sky. “I missed my walk.” I mumble to myself as I start to doze off into sleep. “I hope you can forgive me, Luna.”

Life's worth.

Chapter 8: Life’s worth.

I open my eyes slowly, but quickly shut them from the sudden rush of light. I move my hoof over my eyes, and open them slowly again. My eyes take some time to adjust, but soon I can move my hoof away. I’m still laying here, in the woods. Spinner lays only a few feet away, still out cold. And. . . Blitz. . Where is he? I know i heard him last night. “Blitz!” I call out, as I stand, and look around frantically.

“Blit-” I go to call his name again, but I am stunned silence when I look in, towards the deeper woods. Just barely on the edge of the darkness that encompasses the deep woods, I can see something that makes me sick to my stomach. I see a pool, of deep crimson blood. And, by the trail that disappears into the darkness, it’s clear that whatever had bleed was dragged away. “Oh no.” I whisper to myself.

I look back to Spinner again. I walk up to him, and make sure that he is really out cold. “Ok. Ink. Calm yourself. It’s time to go get Blitz.” I give my self that little pep talk as I turn towards the pool of blood. I walk past it, holding my breath. Though, the moment I get next to it, I just burst into a sprint, following the trail into the woods. “Please be alright. Please be alright.” I repeat over and over to myself as I run. I stop once I reach a clearing. I know this clearing well. This is where. . . This is where I was first abandoned. “Genesis!” I yell out, hearing my voice echo around the trees.

“Doesn’t that explain things.” I hear the voice of Flare, the changeling general from last night. “You’re a changeling. I should’ve known.” I shake my head. “No. Not anymore. Maybe once upon a time I was. But, I’m a pony now.” She laughs. “If you think that you can just be a pony is ridiculous. Deep down, you are still one of us. Sure, it might be dormant. But it’s there. You’re still, as your pony friends would like to say, a monster.”

“No! I’m different.” I shout at her. “And speaking of my friends, where’s Blitz?” She gives me a confused look. “Who?” I glare at her, causing her to become silent. “Blitz. The pony who showed up, when you were trying to wipe our memories.” She thinks for a moment, then laughs. “Oh. Him. You mean you can’t remember?” I shake my head. “Don’t try to play games with me. I saw the pool of blood. It’s. . It’s his, isn’t it?”

“Possibly. But, come on little pony, tell me what you remember from last night.” I think back. I remember the immense heat, and the jolts of electricity running through me. Then the sparks that started coming out of me. Then Blitz rushing in from behind. . . Then blackness. “After Blitz showed up, it all went black.” She laughs, and points at me. “The monster that’s dormant inside of you awoke that night.” My eyes go wide, and I look down at me.

“I was able to see the power you held as a changeling. I don’t know how I couldn’t see it before.” I give her a confused look. “I know what you have been thinking. You’ve been wondering why I sound so familiar Well, I should. Because, it was me, Tenens. I was the one who through you out of the nest. I brought you right here.” She taps her hoof to the ground. I feel a huge rush of emotion go though me. “Why! What made you think that I would be better off dead?”

“Simple. You were weak. Pathetic. You were wasting more energy than you could’ve ever brought in. So, I did the nest a favor, and just made the wink link disappear.” I let out a low growl, as I crouch down. “But, oh was i wrong. The power that flowed through you last night. . . I would even dare to say it would rival the kings power. And, how cute. Are you going to attack me?” I take a step forward, and am about to speak out. But, before I can get out a word, somebody else speaks up. “General Flare. Stand down. It is my turn to speak.”

Out from the shadows, steps Genesis, with Blitz on his back. “General Flare. Is it to my understanding, from what you just said that you broke the rules of our nest? Not only that, but one of the sacred rules of changelings, by kicking out one of our kind unjustly.?” General flare, just stands in a shock, scared silence at the king. “Flare, you have to remember, even the weakest link has a part to play. If you break it away, an entire chain can collapse.” This is a side of changelings that I never can understand. They lack true emotions. They can only simulate them, to fit it. But it’s done so perfectly. Sometimes the line between what is fake, and what is real is blurred to the point where they seem the same. “My king. You talk to me about breaking a sacred rule, but what about him?”

She thrusts her hoof to me. “He broke the most sacred rule. A changeling under no circumstance, unless under the High-Queens orders, shall impersonate a pony that has passed away. A pony that has moved on from the world of the living.” Genesis glares at flare, and silences her with his magic. “That’s just the problem. Tenens can be charged with no crime Because. . . Because Tenens is no more.” I find myself shocked at Genesis’s words. He would never give up that easily. What game is he playing? “All I see, is a pony named Ink, looking for his friend Blitz.”

Genesis uses his magic, and moves Blitz in front of me. Blitz has a large gash along his cheek, and a big cut along his side. His fur matted with blood. But. . But he is breathing, softly. “I will deal with you back the the nest, Flare. But, till further notice, your status as head general is suspended.” He disappears from view, as he drags the dishonored general Flare away.

With my mind now calm, I focus on what is important. I grab Blitz, and slide him onto my back. I run as fast as I can. I reach the edge of the woods soon, and find Spinner laying there, still passed out. I look between the three of us. Spinner has some bruises, and small cuts, Blitz has seen better days. . But me? I’m untouched. That’s going to look really suspicious. I work some dirt into my fur, and use a branch to inflict some scratches. I run up the hill, and back down into town. When I get closer, I slow down, adding a limp to myself. “Help!” I call out. “Help, somepony help!” I call out again.

I feign weakness, and collapse onto the ground, panting heavily.  I hear the hoof steps of several ponies gathering around. “Edge of the woods. . . . Spinner. . Blitz.” I speak out, with a ragged voice, and point over to where they should be. After that, I let my hoof fall to the ground, as I ‘pass out.’ I lay there, with my eyes closed. I feel myself get lifted by some ponies magical aura. I feel a sudden rush of exhaustion come over me, and I end up actually passing out.

I wake up, when the sun is just about to set. Has it really been a full day? Has it been longer, maybe? “Ink?” I hear the soft voice call out from my side. I look over, and see Spiral, sitting there. Tears evident on her face. “Spiral?” I ask in a mix of confusion and surprise. “I’m glad you’re awake. I thought you were going to be a sleep. . . For who knows how long?” I give her a smile, and sit up slowly, feeling my limbs aching slightly. Why do I hurt so much? ‘Anyways, what about Blitz, and Spinner?”

She frowns “Spinner is still sleeping, but he’s fine. . . Blitz. . Blitz. He’s. . “ She stutters out, sniffing lightly. “Blitz is in critical condition. He lost a lot of blood Ink. He might not make it, they say.” I hear her grim words, and I can only sit there in silence. Blitz has been my friend for ever. We knew each other as foals. We grew up living next to each other. And even after he moved, it was only a couple blocks away, and we still saw each other everyday. We shared all out toys, traded them. We spent countless hours working on a silly device, that was exposed to help us learn to fly quicker. . .

To be honest, I have only known him for a year. Even with that fact, he’s my friend, my best friend, all the same. And to hear that he might not ever wake up. . . That he might die, just breaks something in me. “No.” I say, at first quite. “No. He’ll wake up. I’m sure of it. I know he will.” I keep speaking, holding onto the hope that the doctors just got something wrong. Spiral places her hoof on me. “Ink. Stay calm. You still need to rest. Tomorrow, you can come and visit him.”

She keeps her tone gentle, and calm. “We can postpone our date.” She giggles lightly at the word. And, you know what? It’s still a little jarring to see Spiral acting. . . . Like a filly. She would normally be much more tough, much more reserved. And, I’m starting to think that maybe the loss of her memories was a good thing. “Yeah, ok.” I speak out, and give a smile. Silence overcomes us. She steps away for a moment, and picks up her bag. She pulls out my sketchbook, and hands it to me. “I asked your sister to bring this, so you can have it when you wake up.”

I smile, and take it from her. “Thanks.” I say, and set it to my side. “Your sister would’ve been here, but she had work. And, Artsy was here earlier, but her mom came and got her.” I nod slowly, and try to sit up again, but another jolt of pain shoots through me. I start to feel exhaustion take over again. “G-Gonna sleep now.” I mumble to Spiral. And, if I had been more awake, I would’ve never made my next action. But, in my state of tiredness, mixed with some pain, I lean over, and give Spiral a kiss. Just a simple kiss, right onto her lips. “G’night.” I mumble again, a stupid grin on my face.

The extent of life.

Chapter 9: The extent of life.

(Three years later.)

I still find myself thinking about that night, the one that happened three years ago. I keep thinking of things that I could have said, or done differently. Maybe then, my best friend would still be here. Maybe them, he would have been at my side, during my first flight. Maybe then. . Maybe then. I keep saying maybe then. But maybe won’t fix anything. Especially not what happened in the past. I can barely remember what happened in the woods now. Everything just became a blur after the attack. I don’t know what happened to me. Maybe the rush of energy that exploded from me finally caught up.

The day I visited Blitz in the hospital, was one of the worst days ever. I stood there, I could see the blood soaked bandages. I could see the rise and fall of his chest, from his frail weak breath. He had a vase of fresh flowers beside him. I took out my sketchbook, and sat there in silence as I drew. The picture would never change. I looked into the weak aura that surrounded Blitz as I drew. The sketch would always show him laying there, eyes shut peacefully, as if he was asleep. But I knew it wasn’t sleep. In the picture, he had a single flower in his hoofs, and all the rest in the vase were wilted, and dead.

I think I had drawn about five sketches before I gave up. Some ponies say that not knowing if a loved one will pass away is a horrible feeling. Well, I now know that it is worse knowing that they will. I was only able to sit by his side, watching, waiting, for the dreaded moment. The moment that they are no longer in this world. I thought that, once the moment finally came, I would be able to smile down at him, and celebrate his life, instead of mourn his death.

But, the moment his funeral came around, I wasn’t able to sit there and smile. I cried. I cried for hours at his grave. I had cried until everypony left, and even more so,  until my sister decided it was best to drag me home. And, I still cried well into the night, until I finally passed out.

That was three years ago. And now, I am a week into high school. I’ve grown into a fine looking stallion. Or atleast I would think so. My wings are big, and strong. I have learned how to fly, but. . . But, it just isn’t as good as I thought it would’ve been. I thought it would be fun to feel free,as I soar above the clouds. I mean, I do like to fly. But, it just seems to be lacking something .maybe with out Blitz. . .

There’s a knock on my door, which breaks me out of my thought. I sigh, and step away from my mirror. I still have that ritual, though it is less out of fear now. I have no fear that I will look into the mirror, and see a monster staring back at me. It’s just an ingrained habit. In fact, I’m starting to think that I was never. . . One of them at all. That I was never a changeling. Maybe it was just a stupid dream that I kept having. I haven’t heard from Genesis at all, if he even exists. And, before he had seemed so determined to bring me back. I know that it’s just a long shot, to assume that I was never a changeling, but, it is better to believe, then live in fear. So, I take that belief in stride.

There’s a knock on my door, which breaks me out of my thought. I sigh, and step away from my mirror. “Yes?” I call out to my door, as I start walking towards it. “Hurry up, or we’ll be late.” I hear the sweet voice of my marefriend. “Jeez, can’t somepony be patient?” I call back, teasingly. “Just hurry up, Ink.” I laugh, and open the door. “Fine, let’s start walking then. Happy?” She shakes her head, and gives me a small kiss on the lips. “How about a fly?” I laugh, and lean down. “Hop on then, Spiral.”

I feel her slide onto my back, and gently wrap her forehooves around my neck. “You know, maybe I should’ve waited till we were outside.” I say, with a laugh. I feel her rub her cheek against the back of my neck. “To late Ink, you can carry me outside.” I let out a sigh, and roll my eyes. I take careful steps down the stairs, then out the front door. “Heading out now!” I call back into the house, to my sister. “Love you, have fun!” I hear her call back. I close the door, and take off into the sky instantly.

“This is always amazing!” I hear Spiral call out, through the rushing of the wind. I only smile, as I fly towards the center of town. “Not as amazing as you.” I call back to her. I hear her giggle. “Ahh, ain’t you so sweet.” She rubs the back of my head. We fly in silence. I find myself thinking back into the past again. About what happened to her. When she lost her memories. To be fair, she still hasn’t fully regained them. She remembers her brother, and mother well. Nothing about their father. I think because of the trauma. But, she’s fine with the way things are now.

And, to be honest, so am I. Before she was more mean, more assertive. Controlling. Now she’s sweet, and caring. Still assertive, but she isn’t mean about it. Sometimes I even fear that her memories will return, and she’ll go back to the way she was before. And, she would break up with me. But, it’s been three years, so I highly doubt it. But there is still a fear there. “You gonna land?”

I snap back into reality, and pull downwards, landing at the front doors of the school. “Hehe, sorry about that, just spaced out there. Thinking about you.”Technically, I’m not lying.  I give a sweet smile, and kiss her softly. She blushes, and I let out a small laugh. “Just hurry, and get to class, you sweet goofball.” She gives me a soft punch on the shoulder, and walks off. I watch her walk off. “What a cute couple.” I jump at the sudden voice from behind me.

“Gah. Artsy. Don’t scare me like that.” I say, as I turn around. There infront of me stands a beautiful mare, who used to be a very beautiful filly. And one of my best friends. I used to have a giant crush on her, but then me and Spiral got together. And, sure sometimes i wonder what could’ve happened between is. But, I can’t keep lamenting on the past like I have. I mean, we have talked about it before. A week after me and Spiral started dating, I noticed the normally cheerful Artsy, was depressed.

I asked her what was wrong, and she started complaining about Spiral, and how she wasn’t good for me. I knew she was jealous, and. . A part of me wanted to tell her that I loved her more than Spiral. but, I couldn’t do that to Spiral. But, Artsy got over her feelings, and moved on. She even promotes our relationship a lot. Always calling us cute, and perfect. “Sorry. couldn’t help it.” She sticks her tongue out at me, and points towards a small building. “We should be headed to art class.” I give a nod, and we walk off, enjoying the fresh, chilling, breeze.

“So, what have you been up to? I feel like I haven’t talked to you in forever.” She giggles lightly. “We talked last night.’ She laughs a little more. I blush softly. “Oh yeah, we did.” I find it hard to talk to Artsy sometimes now. I still love her, I really do. My feelings for her haven’t diminished. But, I am not willing to hurt Spiral over feelings that i never acted on. So, I just let this awkwardness take place. “Well, what are you doing for the project?” I think for a moment, before I smack my hoof to my forehead. “Shit. I forgot all about the project. Please tell me it isn't due today.”

She gives me a grim look. “If I did, I would be lying.” I let out a groan. “Artsy, I need you to do me a big favor. . “ She shakes her head, holding up her hoov. “No. I’m not going to cheat for you. You brought this upon yourself.” I shake my head in turn. “No, I want you to smash my locker door till I’m unconscious.” I open my locker door, and rest my head on the frame. We stare at each other for a moment, before laughing. “Looks like I just have to go face the music.” I say in a sigh, as we continue towards the art room.

I kept my head down as we got closer, but I felt Artsy poke my with her hoof. “Look up.” I glance up, and smile wide. There, standing outside the door is Verity. Our old middle school principal and art teacher.  “Why, hello there you two.: She says with a large smile. “Glad to see you two are still art students.” We both nod. “Verity, why are you here?” We ask at the same time, both of us with goofy little grins.

“Your normal art teacher unfortunately couldn’t make it in today due to illness.” I let out a sigh of relief. “Didn’t finish your work?” I hear Verity say, and I let out a sigh. “Yes. I forgot to do a large project. And it was meant to be turned into today.” I hear Verity let out a disappointed sigh. “Oh Ink. You may be a good student, but you should be more diligent with your work. But, since school just started a week ago, I will let the class turn in their assignment when you real teacher returns. because I am sure you’re not the only who didn’t finish it.”

I smile, and shake her hoof vigorously. “Oh, thank you, Verity. I owe you one.” She shakes her head. “No, you owe me like five.” We all share a laugh, then me and artsy walk into the classroom. “That’s such a relief. And it’s good to see Verity again.” Artsy gives a happy nod, as we take our seats next to each other. I quickly reach into my bag, and start roughing out some sketches for project ideas. “Remember, the finished project has to be done on twelve by twelve inch canvas paper, and in full color.” I nod quickly, as I keep roughing out a couple sketched. “Was there a specific theme?” She laughs at me. “Should’ve taken notes.” I look up, and see her sticking her tongue out at me.

“No. It was free theme. You can choose. Why don’t you do a portrait of your marefriend?” My ears perk up. “Oh, that’s perfect. Thanks for the idea Artsy.” She smiles and nods. “No problem.” It is great having Verity teaching again. She knows how to teach a class in a way that makes it fun, but you still learn a lot. I wish she could be our permanent teacher. The art teacher in this high school, in complete honesty, is an ass. No offense to any donkeys, but seriously, dudes a complete jerk.

I turn to a completely clean page in my sketchbook. This isn't the same one from three years ago, of course. But, I always buy one that looks exactly the same. And I keep each one, in a small box under my bed. Except my original one, I keep that one on the top drawer of my night stand. Anyways, this is my eighteenth. I look at the blank page, and start thinking over all of Spiral features.   I think of her  lovely orange eyes. I think of her creamy brown fur. I think of her red mane, with orange highlights, and her long red tail, also with orange highlights. I try to sketch it out, but fail. I tear out that page, and crumple it up. This is where my drawing skills fail me.

Even though I have practiced forever, I still can’t draw a pony unless I’m looking at them. I can draw landscapes pretty well from memory. I can draw a tree. I can draw a bird. I can draw cats and dogs. But, ask me to draw a pony, I won’t be able to unless I’m looking at them. Though, I can draw myself without having to look at me. And I’m glad. Because, if I look into a mirror, and draw myself, I only draw a monster. And, I hate that. When I look at a pony and draw them I can see a glow, an aura.

This is my talent. I can look into a pony, and draw their hidden feelings. Feelings that they may or may not be aware of. Feelings that they have hidden from others and themselves. Like when I drew Spiral and Spinner. They both seemed so confident, and strong. But on the inside, they were just fearful and weak. But, my talent has a second part. I can draw possible futures. Like, when I would draw Blitz. I would always end up drawing him. . . . Drawing him dead. I’ve experimented with this ability a little in these past three years. I can only draw events that are in the immediate future. And, if I try hard enough after drawing it, I can possibly change that future.

Though, the only way to know if I’ve changed the course of time, is to draw the pony again, and see if it comes out different. And both of those abilities makes me hate to draw myself when I look into a mirror. I always draw a changeling, a monster, in the mirror, looking back at me. And I know that’s what I’m hiding inside, but. . . But I can’t tell if that will be in my future. No matter how much I tell myself that I am not a changeling anymore, and that I will never be one again, I always end up looking at that monster in the mirror.

I close my sketchbook, and sit there for the rest of the class. Just listening to Verity talk about art, and it’s limitless ability. About how it can capture event for everypony to see. About how it can bring about emotions, and change the way some ponies think. She practically lives by the saying a picture is worth a thousand words. though, she claims that it’s more like a million. “Ink, care to show the class the ability of portraits. It doesn't have to be a cull portrait, one of your sketches will work perfectly.”

Verity always had this habit of picking who she thinks is the most talented to give demonstration to the class. I let out a sigh, as I stand up, and grab my sketchbook. “OK, Verity. Who should I draw?” She points to Artsy. “How about your marefriend Virtuoso. I blush hard, and shake my head frantically as the class snickers about. “What? Oh, no. Artsy isn’t my marefriend. She’s just a friend. Spiral is my marefriend.” I stammer out to Verity, who actually looks surprised. “Oh, and I thought you two would be so perfect together.”

After the class gets their laughs in, I sit in front of Artsy, who gives me smile. I sit there and look at her for a moment. I shake my head, and walk to the other side of her, so the window is behind her. I give a nod, and pick up my trusty old inkwell pen. My sister gave it to my the day after I got my cutie mark. I use it in all my sketch now practically.

I watch as that familiar shimmer comes around Artsy, when i start sketching her out. I focus in on that arua, as my eyes skim around every bit of Artsy. From the small details of the light shimmer in her blond mane. To the more intimate details of the shape of her body. I can feel her most shown emotions flow through me. from her boundless happiness, to her more caring motherly like nature for her friends. But, as I draw more, i start to feel her more deeper emotions. Ones that she hides. A deep feeling of regret and sorrow, for love never acted upon. Love for me. But, there is also a deep hidden feeling of heartache at a broken family. Of a brother that she loves, that was cast away. Of parents that fight constantly about her future. . . Her future.

Before I can draw any more and show what future has in store for Artsy soon, Verity calls out. “Ok, Ink. Before class ends now.” The class laughs slightly, and I put down my pen. My sketch is of Artsy just sitting there, no surroundings save for the single window behind her. I wasn’t able to draw more than that. I look up at Artsy, and see her sitting there still, smiling as always. But when I look down at the drawing again, there she sits with a frown. I had drawn her once before, and even though she was smiling brightly then, I could only draw her with a frown. Verity pick up my my sketchbook, and shows the picture around the class.

“See, you need a great attention to detail to draw a portrait well. You can’t just look and draw. He was concentrated when he drew her. He payed attention to the how the light was, and the shade. He payed attention to how her mane was as well. Perfect, in my opinion.” She hands my sketchbook back, and concludes class. I slide my stuff back into my bag, and walk out of the room quickly. Artsy soon catches up with me though. “Is something wrong?” I shake my head, as I look at her. “Why are you always sad?” I ask without thinking. “What do you mean ‘always sad’? I’m pretty sure I am the exact opposite.” She laughs at my offhoof comment.

I shake my head. “Artsy. What do you think my talent is? What do you think my cutie mark represents?” I ask a simple question. “Well, it shows your amazing talent at drawing. Duh.” She laughs a bit more. “That’s only half the answer. You know as well as I do a cutie mark never shows a ponies exact talent. Just a generalized version of it.” She nods slowly. “Ok, what is your exact talent then?” I look around the nearly empty hallway, and glance towards the clock on the wall. five minutes left till next class. I let out a sigh, and take a deep breath.

“My real talent, is when I draw a pony, I can draw their feelings, their emotions. Ones that they have deep down. Ones that they may not know themselves.” I explain, and decide to leave out the second part. The first part sounds farfetched enough as it is, me being a pegasus. A talent like mine would require a normal pony some form of magic. Magic that only unicorns can use. Magic that a changeling can use as well. The first part of my talents, even though it seems farfetched, is very possible. The second part of my talent would be too suspicious though. And, I've never told anypony my talent, for fear that they would find out the monster that I am. but, I trust Artsy enough. And since I care for her, I want to know her sadness, in words that only she can tell.

I pull out my sketchbook, and turn to her picture. “I drew you once before, back in middle school. And, I had drawn you with a frown then.” I show the picture that I had just drawn minutes ago. “And I drew you again today, with a frown. So, tell me. Why are you so sad?” I already know most of the answer, but, I need to hear it from her. “That’s. . That’s amazing. You’re more talented than I thought.” She says jokingly, obviously avoiding my question. “Artsy. You’re my best friend. Please, if there is something wrong I want to be able to help.” She shakes her head. “If that is your talent, and that is what you can do. Then this isn’t something you can help with, Ink. Just leave it alone.” She drops her usual smile, showing me that frown. A similiar to the one that I drew. The bell rings, and we just walk our separate ways.

Life of two.

Chapter 10: Life of two.

“Do we seriously have to do this?” I whisper to my father, as we wave good bye to his family. “Of course. You got us into this. Plus, this gives me the perfect chance to talk to you.” I turn away, keeping the smile on my face till their house is out of view. “Well, talk while you can, because once we reach the edge of town, we go our separate ways.” He gives me a frown. “Fantasm, you got us both into this. At least come with me to Canterlot.”

“Why? Why should I?” I snap at him. “Because, I have a friend up there that owes me. I can talk him into letting you rent a place for cheap. It’s the least I can do. It’s a start to a long apology” He lets out a sigh, as he looks at me with regret on his face.   “If you really want to say sorry, start by making everything right! If you want to apologize to me, then make us a family again. You. Mother. And me. Not that stupid second family. None of this running.”

I feel a tear run down my cheek, as I sniff slightly. “I just wanted a normal life.” He places his hoof on my, and I just shrug it off. “And, I’ll make sure you have a normal life. Just, come with me to Canterlot. And then I will never show up in your life again.” I turn and look back at him. “Promise?” He nods. “I promise. I’ll never bother you again.”

I can see the pain he goes through when he says that. We walk in silence, the only noise coming from the soft breeze moving the tree branches. Silence. I quite enjoy it. It makes me feel at peace. “So. . . When did you get your cutie mark?” But the silence can also be the calm before the storm. I let out a sigh as I hear my father speak. “When I was younger.” I keep my statement short, and simple. “Oh. . . Well. . . What’s your. . Talent?” He stammers out his next question. I’m sure he can feel my cold indifference towards him. “Magic.” I state out. Why should I give him any detail?

“Oh. What kind of magic?” but he still tries to push further. I let out an angry sigh. “Illusion magic.” I say through gritted teeth. “Now, can you stop with the questions, and let me walk in peace?” I nearly yell at him, as I speed up slightly. The quicker we get to Canterlot, the better. And this idle chit chat he wants to do will not speed up the journey. I look back to see him standing there, mouth slightly open like he wants to say something. But, he closes it, and continues walking, catching up with me. “So, there is a small town between here and Canterlot. That is where we will have to stay the night at.” I shake my head. “No. I was going to walk through the night. Since i missed me walk before hand.”

He gives me a confused look, and I let out a sigh. I guess he can know this part about me. “Every night back at home, I would take a small walk through town. I love the nighttime. It’s so beautiful. I wonder why it’s so underappreciated. And, I missed my walk last night, since I got sick.” Thinking about last night nearly makes me sick again, but I shake away the feeling. “And I wont miss that walk tonight. And, I just thought it would be easier to continue walking towards Canterlot.”

“What about rest? You need your rest.” I stop in my tracks, and turn towards my father. “You know nothing about me, father! Don’t try to know what you think I need or don’t need. I’m half of a monster because of you.” He gives me a pained look. “Fantasm.” I cut him off before he can say more. “I don’t need to sleep. I don’t even need to eat regular food. I can, but it only helps a little. If I can’t. . . . If I can’t feed on emptions, then I will start to fade. This is the curse I live with. Because of you.” His eyes open wide. “Fantasm. I didn’t know.”

“Of course you didn’t know! Because you’ve never been around. Because you couldn’t be around. But now guess what? You have another daughter. And, she will go through the same pain as me.” He looks back towards his home. To where his other daughter is. A look of total concerne on his face. “When she starts maturing. When she starts gaining more and more magic energy. That’s when you should tell her about what she is. . . At least then she will understand what she’s going through. Unlike me.” I let out a sigh as I explain it to him.

I don’t want that sweet little foal to go through what I did. I don’t want her to face that confusion like I did. And, I won’t be a careless, emotionless, monster like my father is. I could’ve just left him in worry about his daughter. I could’ve left her as confused as I was. But, that would have made me more like my father. And, I refuse to let that happen. “I’m sorry, Fantasm. I had no idea that you would’ve. . . Been like me.”

“No. I’m not like you. Never say that I am like you. I’m different. First, I actually care for others. Its not some act that I can throw away at any point. And, I’m no monster. Not. . . Not a complete monster like you.” I let out a sigh as I turn away from him, and continue walking along the path towards the towering mountain city. We continue to walk in silence, until the sun starts to set. “Are you sure you want to keep walking? It gets dangerous at night. And, the towns just right there.”

The path is forked. One way leading to the town he speaks of. the other continues on forward towards Canterlot. I only keep walking, not giving him a response. I hear him let out a sigh, as he speeds up to stay close to me. Finally, I watch as the sun dips down, below the visible horizon. I watch as the jeweled sky of night appears above. The millions upon millions of shining stars. I watch as the moon rises, and begins its journey through space. Out of habit, I light up my horn. My magic aura is the same dark green like my eyes. But, slowly, I watch as it shifts into a dark pink colour. I feel a slight tingle run through my face, as I shift my eyes to the same color. “What are you?” I put up my hoof, silencing him. “Shh. I need to concentrate.”

Ok, changing eye color is easy for me. I’ve practiced it a lot. But, let’s see if I can change my entire fur color. My horn shifts into a dark purple color, and I feel tingles rush throughout my entire body, as my fur changes to match the color. Ok, eyes, peice of cake. Fur, kind of straining, especially stacked with changing my eyes. Though, it’s easier than before. I used to collapse from exhaustion by this point. Actually, I think I can. . . I let my magic aura fade away.I look down at my hooves, and see the purple color. “What is the color of my eyes?” I ask as I turn to look at my father.

He only gives me a look of confusion, and shock. “Umm. Pink. Like your mothers.” I smile. “What. . What are you doing?” I let out a sigh. “I’m practicing my magic. I always practice at night. . Because they would fear me when I practiced it in the day, because the knew what you were. And feared I would be the same.” He looks down at the ground. “Don’t try to act sorry.” I say, as I light up my horn again. Time to do my mane and tail.

I start to feel a pressure build around my horn, as it glows a rusty, brick red color. I feel my mane and tail move, as if blown by a strong breeze. I start to pant, and sweat. “Don’t push your self.” I glare at him, as I lean forward, feeling more pressure. “I. Can. Do this.” I say through gritted teeth. I feel something snap, as my magic bursts out from me. Dispelling everything I had just cast. I fall to the ground, panting. “Almost. . Almost had it.” I say through, as I start to regain my strength. “I’m surprised you could do that. Especially that easily. At your age.”

“Yeah, well, I’ve been practicing. By my self. No help.” I try to sound angry, but my voice carries a tone of proudness. “Umm, you got a little something, here.” I say to my father, as I motion around his body. He looks down, and sighs. “It looks like when your magic dispelled, the flung onto me.” His fur color has changed to the mix of all the colors I had cast. Leaving him with an ugly mix of all of them on his fur. He lights up his horn, and makes them fade away instantly. “Ok, you done now? You wanted to keep walking. So, thats what we should do.”

I light up my horn again. “This is my real talent.” I say, with a smirk. I feel a soft tingle grow throughout my entire body. “What I was doing before, was trying to completely change the color of my eyes, and fur. But, my real talent only gives the appearance of change. Though, you should know all about that.” I start to glow softly, as all my colors appear to shift, changing constantly. “See? Nothings actually changing though. Only looks like they are.” I stop with the color shifting on my body, and look towards a small bush. “I can also make that look different.” Instead of the common dark green bush, I make it look like a dust brown one, as if it were in a desert.

“That’s pretty amazing Fantasm. I’m proud to see your abilities. I hope Onyx will grow into an amazing mare like you.” I laugh at that. “Really? I’m nothing, father. In all honesty. I grew up completely sheltered. If you think that I am an amazing mare, then you really don’t know me one bit.” I look up into the sky again. The sight of all those stars will never grow old. It would be an honor to meet the princess who made them. “Do you even know yourself Fantasm? I can accept the fact that I barely know you. But, you claim to know yourself so well. And yet, as you just said, you’ve barely been able to grow outside of that sheltered life. But, I can still see a strong mare there. Just hidden by insecurities.”

“Why do you think I am insecure though! It’s because I grew up knowing my father was a monster. Thinking that I might be one as well.” I see my fathers normally kind face turn angry, giving me a deep glare. “Will you stop calling me a monster. You know nothing about changelings.” He lights up his horn, and I watch as his body shifts, turning into his true form. “All ponies view us as is monsters. Emotionless, faceless monsters.” He lets out a long sigh, then takes a deep breath.

“But, that couldn’t be farthest from the truth. We lack true emotions yes, but we grow knowing about them. We learn, so we can blend. We know what pain is. . We know what love is. And, we experience every bit of those. I felt love for you, and your mother. And, I felt pain when I had to leave you guys. And ponies think of us as barbaric creatures, with no idea on how to act civilized. But, we have built our nests, our kingdoms. Kingdoms that have been around since long before the time of discord. We keep to our kind, we stick together. We have loyalty to each other. But, I’ve seen how ponies act. We may be beings of deception, and trickery. But, we do what we do with a purpose. I’ve seen ponies act in deception just for their own personal gain, not caring about who, or what, they hurt.”

I glare at him. I wish I could just block out what he is saying. I wish I could just tune everything out. But, I can’t. I hear every word. And, even if I want to think it false. as much as I want to keep the belief that he is a monster. I know that what he is saying is true. To some level. That deep down, my father is just like me. A pony who just wanted a chance at life. “Father. . Obsidian. If you really want me to believe that, and forgive you. If you want me to accept you as my dad, then you better help me with my new life up in Canterlot. I want you to be there whenever you can. I want you to teach me more magic. Normal magic. I can practice illusions on my own time.”

He only responds with a couple nods in silence. I turn and see a faint light in the distance. “Father. Turn back to yourself. I think I see somepony coming.” He nods again, and quickly shifts back to his normal pony form. “Just act normally now.” He whispered to me. Have I not been acting normally? . . . Well, I guess I have been acting. . Sort of irrational, and hesitant. But, my actions are all with due cause.

“Hello there.” My father says as we pass by. “Oh, I didn’t expect to see anypony out this late. What brings you two here?” I was hoping we could pass by, without question. “Just traveling to Canterlot. We wanted to get there as soon as possible. And, isn’t it just a lovely night to walk as well?” The other pony, an older looking stallion, carrying in his gray magic aura a lantern. “Why, yes. It is quite a lovely night. Well, be safe you two. because the beautiful night carries dangers that we may not expect.”

The old stallion leaves us with that ominous warning, as he continues down the path. “Well. . . . That was weird.” I say, and continue along our path. “We should take his warning though, and turn back towards the town.” I hear my father say. “We’ve been over this. . . Dad. We keep walking.” I look back up towards the mountain city of Canterlot. It looks amazing in the night time. Even from here, I can see it’s glistening beauty. All the candlelight shining off the gold and other reflective metals. With the shining stars as a backdrop, the sight can’t be more perfect. “So, you said I can have a life up there?” I ask, and look back to my father. “Well. I can’t make any promises, but I can help you get one started.”

“It’s something. Don’t think I’m ready to forgive you. . . . But. . . Thanks.” I give a soft smile. As much as I hate my father, I do have to come to terms that he really is sorry. In some way or another. And, he really does want to make up for the pain that he inadvertently caused me. But, that doesn't change the fact about this new family he has. Sure, he may be sorry. But, if he was truly remorseful, and truly loved us, then he shouldn’t have replaced us like that.

“Fantasm. I know you want to spend as little time with me as possible. . .But, once we get to Canterlot, why don’t you let me take you out to eat? Some place nice. My treat.” I let out a sigh. “Fine. I guess that sounds. . . Ok.” I give him a soft smile, and look back in front of me. Spotting another figure in the distance. “Somepony else is coming now.” I say back to him, and he nods.”Fantasm. Stay close to me. That pony up there. I can feel something weird about him.” I look back to my father and slow down.

As we approach the cloaked pony, my father begins to speed up, trying to get past him as quick as possible. But, I feel a hoof grab me, and a magical aura wrap around my hooves. “Hey. Let me go.” I feel the strangers breath against my neck. I shiver, from the pure feeling of creep that this pony emits. “I’ll let you go. Once I get all your bits. And, don’t even try to save your precious girl.” The voice sounds to belong to a stallion.

I feel the cold metal of a blade get pressed to my neck. “Obsidian. Just. . Just give him out bits.” I look at my father, just standing there in slight shock. But, I watch as that shock turns into pure rage. “Let go of my daughter!” I hear him say, in a commanding, almost menacing tone. “Give me your bits then.” I try to move, but he’s got me completely stuck in place. I got to light up my horn, but I feel as he slides a ring on it, blocking my from using any magic. “Nice try, sweetie.” I try to squirm, but my struggle only makes his magic grip me tighter, and spread. I feel it travel up my hooves, up my legs, squeezing every inch of my body slowly. “S-stop. . It.” I stammer out.

I look to my father again, watching him slowly approach us. “I’ll ask nicely. One last time. Let my daughter go.” He keeps his voice firm, and strong, as he approaches us. “Stay back. Just give me your bits. Your daughter won’t get hurt, and we go our separate ways. Simple, and clean.” My father laughs at that. “I’m sorry. but, the only pony that will be hurt is you. So, let go of my her. If not, then I will personally take that blade of yours, and shove it down your throat. And, that’s me still being nice.”

I feel the blade press tighter against my neck, and I feel the sting of it’s slight cut. The warmth of my blood soaking into my fur slowly. “Stay back.” I hear the stallion holding me captive say. My vision starts to fade, as I grow weak. From the mix of being barely able to breath, because of the tightness of his magic grip, and the thought of that blade cutting into me. I feel myself get dropped to the ground, hard. I hear the sounds of a struggle from behind. My eyes slowly close, as the struggle fades away from my hearing.

When I open my eyes, I’m now by a small pond. “Nnf. . F-father?” I speak out, my throat still in some pain. I stand slowly, my body aching. “Father?. . . Obsidian?” I call out, and look around the small clearing. It’s still dark. . Darker than before I think. I look back down into the pond, and let out a small gasp, covering my mouth with my hooves quickly, before I could let out a scream. The pond it’s. . . It’s full of blood. Slowly spreading out from the deep red spot right at the edge. Next to where I was laying. I quickly, just out of instinct, put my hoof to my neck, only feeling the small cut that’s there. That must meen. .

“Oh. Fantasm. You’re awake. You were passed out for a couple hours.” I turn to see my father. “Did you. . . Did you. . Do that?” I can’t bring myself to say more, only point towards the slowly spreading blood in the pond. He only gives a nod. “It was to protect you.” He says, not a single hint of remorse for what he just did. “Father. That’s still murder. . What are you going to do?” He laughs slightly. And shakes his head. “No. It wasn’t murder. Not. . .Not technically.”

“It was quite bothersome, but I got it approved by the High-Queen. A changeling soldier shall be sent out to replace this scum. Like he never died. No one will know. If you wish, I can wipe your memory of this event.” I shake my head. “No. I don’t want you messing around in my head. I can. . . I can just pretend that this never happened.” I say, with a shimmer of hope in my voice. But, even though my father is in his normal pony form, I can only see him as a monster. As the monster he is. He thinks it over for a moment, and nods. “If that’s what you want. Hows your neck?”

I put my hoof to it again. “It doesn’t hurt much really. I’ll be fine. let’s keep walking now. I want to get to Canterlot even quicker now.” I look up into the sky, and see the looming mountain basically right above us. Father. . He must have carried me pretty far in those couple hours. I look at him again, and see through the monster. Just to look at my father. He saved my life. I wish I could say I owed him one now. But, with how much pain he caused in my past, I guess. . . I guess I can say we’re almost even. Almost.

Lifes nightmares.

Chapter 11: Lifes nightmares.

“No. Please. Don’t leave me. Not alone. I don’t want to be alone.” My voice echos into the growing darkness, as I watch everypony I had ever loved walk away from me. No. Not me. They are walking away from the monster I am. By this point, I know I am dreaming. But, there is no controlling this dream. . . . Or should I say nightmare. Slowly, everything fades to black, and I sit there, in wait. By this point, I expect nothing. I’ve heard stories. Stories from my friends and others having the princess of the night visit them in their dreams. They had a nightmare, because of recent events. And the princess shows them their errors, in hopes that they will fix it.

Princess Luna. . . She’s never come to my nightmare before. She’s never come to show me the supposed ‘errors in my way.’ It’s not like I’ve done anything wrong before. Maybe. . Maybe she knows. . Knows about me. Maybe she is here, and just watches me from a distance. Ah. Here comes the part of this nightmare I hate the most. I’m walking now, slowly, through those woods. I see the blood that is spread all over the floor of the forest. I walk until I reach the body of Blitz. But, not just his body. Spinners as well. . And mine. A life cut short once again, along with two others.

My greatest fear is that I wont be able to live this life for Ink.  That everything would just be for vain. This fear is constantly played out before my eyes, in my nightmares. I look at my body, laying on the ground, a bloody mess. My eyes open wide in terror, looking towards my direction. I look down at myself, and see black fur covering my body. “No. . No.” I say as  I step back slowly. A pond of blood grows in front of me, the crimson red reflecting my appearance to me. I look into the face of a monster. “No. I’m not like that anymore.” I shout, hearing my voice echo out.

“Why must you think that? Young stallion.” I hear a voice behind me. I watch as everything fades to black again. I turn slowly, and look at the moon princess standing here. In my dream. “Took you long enough.” I say to her. Why is the first thing I say to her an insult? I always say the stupidest things. I need to invest in some duct tape.

“There are millions of ponies in this world. I am only one princess.’ I let out a sigh. “Yeah. But you have other reasons, don’t you?” She looks to the side and frowns. “We all have our reasons. But to the point at hand. Why do you think you are a monster?” I sigh. “Look at me, Princess Luna. I’m a monster. A changeling. I’m just a shell.”

“No. You are much more than a shell. What I see standing before me is a pony who just wants a chance. changelings are far from the beasts that we learn about. You should know that. They live life in their own unique way. And for the most part, changelings keep to themselves. And sure they sometimes have their moments of. . . Resistance. But, they are as evil as we are.” I shake my head when the princess finishes speaking.

“In my experience? They’ve only caused pain. I’ve only caused pain. We are inherently monsters. Sure, as time moves, we may change, but at our core we are what we are. Monsters.”  The princess walks up to me. “Genesis has talked to you about the state of his nest. It’s dying. Just look at it.” The princess brings us to the nest.

The seen before me is horrid. Many changelings straggle around. Malnourished from the lack of emotion flow. Bodies piled in ditches from the ones who have died. “This is their state. Changelings are just trying to strive, and survive. Most of the nest has evacuated the area, and joined other nests. Soon, this nest will crumble, the king along with it. And the Locum will be no more.”

“Good. Then I can finally live peacefully. I can at least know that the monster in me is, kind of, no more.” The princess lets out a long sigh. “I wish I could say that is true. But, you are still a Locum. Deep down. No matter how much you deny it. And, once the nest crumbles, so will you. You will fall with them. Your pony form will shed away. Everypony will see the monster you think you are, while you spend your last moments dying in front of them.”

I look to the princess. My eyes wide with shock. . “So. No matter what. . . . The past doesn’t matter, the future is bleak. . Why did I even try then! Why did I take his life, if it was just going to die in vain.” The princess shakes her head, her long astral mane, flowing in an invisible wind.

“No. This is just a nightmare. Things can change. But only if you find the way to make them. I can only leave you with this warning. If you continue down this path, it will end in vain. But, if you can find the turning point, you can change these event for the better, and you can live that life you've been longing for. A life free from the ‘monster’ inside of you.”

I let out a gasp as I sit up in my bed. My head throbbing with pain. “Ink. Come on. We had a date planned. . Remember?” I hear Spiral call from outside my door. “Umm. yeah. be right out.” I call, and slide out of my bed. I walk over to my mirror, and look into it. I see me. I see Ink. I see the pony. But, there’s a monster there. A monster that I can only hide for so long it seems. Unless. . . Unless I change my course. . But how?! God, this is infuriating. I’ve waited that long for the princess to visit me, only for her to tell me that!

Maybe. . Maybe I can just run away before that happens. That way no pony gets hurt. . Except my sister. . And Spiral. . And me. . No, there has to be something that I’m missing. What can I do to make the monster in me disappear for good. “Come on Ink. We might miss the reservation. We payed a lot of bits for those seats.”

“I’m hurrying. . I just can’t find me tie. . “ I say. Even though it’s a blatant lie. My tie is right in front of me. I quickly grab it, and slide it down, and around my neck. I tighten it as well as I can, and open my door.  Spiral has her hair done up in a nice bun on the back of her head. But what really stuns me is the long flowing red dress she has on. And the necklace with the red heart, surrounded in a gold frame. “Wow.” I mumble as I look over her body again and again. She rolls her eyes at me.

“Quit gawking, you goof. And. . “ She lets out an annoyed sigh. “Let me fix that.” I feel her magic wrap around the tie, and adjust it, tightening it slightly as well, so it isn't loss around my neck. She smiles, and gives me a small kiss.  “Lets go. Wanna fly there?” She remarks teasingly.

“Yeah. Let’s get outside first.” I stick my tongue out at her, and we walk down stairs. I give my sister a goodbye, and we are out. She hops onto my back, and I take off towards the Starlight Sterling. A fancy restaurant that opened up in this place. Very expensive. And we had to book like. . four month in advance, I wanna say. Anyway.  “We've been waiting for this forever. Let’s hope everything goes right, and nothing goes wrong.” I say and smile up at Spiral. . . . .

I close my eyes for a moment, as I bring my hoof to my face. Why, why, did I have to open my big mouth?

Lifes pleasures.

Chapter 12: Lifes pleasures.

I sit in my seat, at the restaurant. Constantly glancing around nervously. Ever since i opened my big mouth, I just can’t help to be. . . . Anxious. I just know something bad will happen now. “Man. . It’s sure taking them long to come take our order. . . But, I guess it is pretty busy.” I only give a smile, and a nervous chuckle as I nod. “Yeah. . I don’t mind waiting though.”

We stare into each others eyes. just blissfully enjoying each others company. “We are sorry for the inconvenience. Are you two ready to order?” I turn, and see Artsy standing there. Dressed in a fancy looking waitress suit. “You work here?” I ask. She opens her eyes, and gasps, glancing between us. “Oh. Hey you two. I’d like to stay and chat. But, it’s pretty busy. Are you ordering now?” We both give a nod.

“Yeah. I would love a nice salad, with some hay fries on the side.” Spiral orders. Artsy jots down her order, and looks to me. But, she doesn’t quite met my eyes. We haven’t talked much to each other. . . Since that time in the hall. “And you sir?” She asks formally. “Oh come on. No need for the sir.”

“Just hurry and order. . Sir.” She grits her teeth angrily. “Ok fine. I’ll have the same.” She makes a quick note, and marches away. “Umm. . . What's up?” Spiral asks. “You two are like. . . Best friends. something happen?” I shake my head and let out a frustrated sigh. I watch as Artsy marches back, and into the kitchen area. “No. . Yeah. . I mean sorta. We had an argument about something. . . It’s none of your business, really.” I state out. “Sorry Spiral. . . I didn’t mean to be rude. It’s just complicated.” I say quickly after words. She gives a nod slowly, giving me a slightly suspicious look. She eventually gives it a shrug, and takes a sip of her water.

I keep looking at the corner of my eye. I see Artsy quickly rush away from the kitchen, and walk back towards the bathrooms. The rest of our date goes by smoothly. We get our food and eat it.

“Mm. Delicious. Well worth the wait.” We smile, and I lean over the table, and give her a small kiss. “Yeah. it was.” I smile. But, I keep thinking about Artsy. I saw her run into the bathroom. And that was an hour ago. She hasn’t left. It makes me worried. “Spiral. This was a lovely date. We should do it again. You can go on and leave. i’ll take care of the cheek.”

She frowns teasingly. “Ain't going to walk, or fly, me home. Lover boy.” I shake my head. “I would love too. But, I also really need to use the bathroom. Just go on ahead. Love you.” I lean over, and give her another kiss. Letting my lips linger against hers a little while longer. “Mm. . Ok. I’ll let it slide this time.” she smiles and stands, sauntering away. Almost teasing me. the waiter brings me the check. I leave the proper amount of bits, and even a gracious tip. But, before I leave, I walk back towards the bathrooms.

Giving a quick, inconspicuous, glance around I step into the mares bathroom. The moment I enter, my ears are filled with the sound of sobs, and crying. “It’s. . . It’s busy in here. Please leave.” I take a deep breath, and speak out to he. “Artsy. . . It’s me. Ink. tell me what's wrong. I’m concerned for you. I really am.” I hear her gasp.

“Ink. Get out!” She calls. But I shake my head, even if she can’t see it, being locked in a stall. I walk up to the stall, and lean my back against it. “I won’t leave until you at least try to talk to me.” I hear her sniff more. So I just sit there. Listening to her sniff. After a few long minutes, I hear her take a deep breath. “Divorce. My parents. they never stop arguing. And my brother is having his own problems with our parents. The family I love. . Is just breaking apart. And i’m just stuck in the middle of it. . . And my own feelings are betraying me.”

She sniffs harder again, starting to cry again. “Artsy. I. . . I can’t say it will be ok. . Infact, I know well that everything probably won’t be ok. But, if you just sit there in the middle, you’ll never get the closer you want. . The closer you need. You need to talk.” I hear her sniff still. Just sitting there in the stall, quiet save for her soft sobs.

“Fine. I’ll talk.” I hear the stall door click. I move away from it, and it open slowly. She’s sitting there, looking at me with bloodshot eyes, and tear stained cheeks. “I still love you. I never stopped. . I just thought it would be better to embrace your relationship with Spiral. . You too seem so close. .  And. . It’s funny. . I always thought you loved me like that. The way you would look at me when we were younger. . When you thought I wasn't looking.”

I sit there. Almost shocked by her admission. She just sits there, and stares at me. Starting to cry again as I stay silent. She closes her eyes, and tears start up again. I step forward, and push myself against her, pressing my lips to hers. She lets out a gasp, her eyes open wide. Mine half lidded, looking into hers. I wrap my hooves around her, and she relaxes into me. She closes her eyes slowly. Her mouth partially open still. I let my tongue move out, dancing across hers.

She lets out a couple stifled moans as we sit there, kissing. The most passionate kiss I've ever had. With Spiral, it always seemed hollow, and forced. I pull away, a small strand of saliva still connecting us, until it breaks. Disappearing into thin air. I pant softly, and give a smile. “I do love you like that. . . I never stopped.” I say. I look at Artsy, her eyes open wide again, her hoof touching her lips gently. “R-really?” She asks, in a near whisper. I look her right in her eyes, and give her another small kiss. “Really.” I state.

I feel her push against me, causing me to fall onto my back. We lay there, for a moment before we start kissing again. Kissing, and kissing. “We can’t though. . You’re spoken for.” I shrug it away, and just keep kissing her. Letting my hooves explore her body slowly. Slowly running down her sides, before resting on her flanks. “No one has to know.” I say in a whisper, into her ear, giving it a small nibble. I feel her body shiver, as she lets out a moan.

She moves away from me, walking to the bathroom door. She brings out a key, and locks the bathroom door. “Let’s . . . .Let’s not be interrupted then.” She says. She’s obviously nervous about this. But, I can see the wanting, lustful look on her eyes. I smirk, and walk up to her again, basically shoving her against the door as I kiss her again.

Soon, we are laying there, a sweating mess. Disheveled manes. Panting. Staring into each others eyes wistfully. “That. . That was my first time.” She moans softly as she stands, groaning. her body tired. “Mine to.” I state as I stand, groaning as well. My body equally as tired. I smile as I look at her, and she smiles as well. But, then all of a sudden, her eyes are wide again. “O can’t believe we did that. . I mean. . What are. . We. . And. . Oh no.” She starts to panic, passing back and forth as she stammers out what can’t even pass as a sentence.

I grab her when she passes me, holding her close in a hug. “Shh. It’s ok. No one will know that I cheated. I won’t tell. No one has to know about this. About us.” She shakes her head. she places her hoof on her head, as she starts to cry again. “Not what I mean. . I loved it. I want to do it again.  . . But. . We.. Umm. It was unprotected.”  She slowly and slowly gets more and more quiet as she speaks. But those last words ring in my head loudly. Like a giant alarm, warning me about the incoming storm. my mouth hangs open barely. “Oh my. .  Great Faust. I’m sorry. I wasn't thinking. . “

“Neither of us were. . But. . What’s done is done.” I nod slowly. “I’ll own up to it all. . If you are. . You know.” I say nervously, through a solid gulp. She hugs me gently now. “I know you will. I’m just glad you love me. . . I really don’t care if I’m pregnant or not.” I give her a small kiss. “It will bring us closer.” I laugh jokingly. “i’m glad I can finally tell you that. Tell you that I love you.” I give her another small kiss.

“I’m so glad.” She leans against my chest, and starts to cry again. Though, this time I know its tears of joy, instead of the tears of pain and hurt. We lay back down together, on the cold tiled floor. Cuddling, and kissing. “Love you.” She mumbles as her eyes start to drift closed. “Love you too.” I whisper, as I let her fall asleep in my grip. I just lay there, holding her. Stroking her mane gently, as I watch her sleep. Soon. I find myself drifting off in the land of dreams.

Hopeful new life.

Chapter 13: Hopeful new life.

Canterlot. At last. After the long night After all those problems, and all that walking, we've finally reached the mountain city. “We still have a bit to walk. Before we reach my friends place. Want to stop to get a bite to eat?” I give my father a nod. just taking in everything. From the many various scents, and colors. “This place is. . . So huge! It’s awesome.” I giggle, and almost feel like running down these streets. But, I barely know the place. I don’t want to get lost. So, I stick close to my father.

We reach a small cafe kind of place. We take our seats, and we are given our menus. I look at all the delicious food, and drinks they have available. But, oh Luna, the prices. “Don’t worry. I’m paying.” I hear my father chuckle, as if he had read my mind. . . Wait. He always knows what I am feeling. “I guess I’ll get the most expensive thing then.” My father smirks, and nods. “Fine. If you want the best, I can give it to you.” I smile for a moment, before giving him a glare. “Don’t try to make up for everything by buying me whatever.” My father smiles.

“Who said I would be buying?” I give him a confused look. Before I can ask anything, the waiter steps up. “And, what would you two be ordering?” My father smiles, and lets his eyes glow a slight green when he speaks to the waiter. “We will both be having the special.” The waiter smiles, and lets his eyes glow a similar green. “Oh. You are in luck. The special will be on the house.” The waiter steps away.

“Changeling?” I ask in a whisper to my father, and he nods. “Yes. Many businesses, and the likes, here are run by changeling operatives. Prime changeling operatives of course. I’m from one of the five  lower branches, a Pesterer. But, we all look out for each other. These are the perks you can have as well.” I shake my head. “No, father. I don’t want. . . To be like that. I want to be myself. And, I’m only part changeling. It wouldn’t be right, even if I wanted to.”

My father sighs. “The offer will always be open. Just remember that.” I give a nod, as I look away from the small cafe. This city is so massive. I can’t get over that fact. And the way it was made. Layers upon layers. From here, I can look down, upon lower parts of the city. but, I can also look up, and see the brighter upper layers, and the shining castle. “The sight never gets old, does it?” My father asks. I only can nod. I look at the gold tops of the spires on the castle. I can see the rays of light that they reflect. “You know. There is an old saying ‘Canterlot wasn’t made in a day.’ And, I know it’s exposed to mean to take your time on things. Don’t try to rush anything. Don’t rush your life. But, it’s wrong. Canterlot was made in a day. I’ve been to the Prime nests archives.” My father speaks, looking excited as he whispers me his story.

“This nest thrives deep within the many catacombs that spread through these mountains. .  .And, one day, a small scout was out on guard, when all of a sudden, the ground started to morph under his feet.” My father has this excited look on his face, as he whispers to me the story of lore. “He flew back and watched, as what could only be described as a radiant being from the heavens, came down, and formed the castle out of the mountain. Using her immense power to form the stone, and the buildings. And the castle of gold and silver. That was thousands, upon thousands of years ago. Before the time of discord. Before the princess sisters had their crowns, and were only mere foals.”

My father lets out a wistful sigh, as he himself looks up at the towering castle. “Wow. . That’s pretty amazing actually. . . Who was the being?” I ask, actually captivated, wanting to know more about this hidden part of history. “It was never recorded who the being was exactly. But, we all believe it to be Faust. The great creator of the heavens, and the earth we stand upon.” I sit, my mouth slightly open, as I think of Faust. Does she really have that much power? Well. . Of course she would. She built this land. I want to ask more, but the waiter returns, carrying two platters. “Here you go.” He says, and sets them down, removing the small lids on both as he walks away.

“Ah. Finally. Time to eat.” My father says, as he. . . To be blunt, pigs out on his food. I look at the food. It looks like a nice salad, with some hay seasoning. Could this really be the special? I shrug, and pick up my fork. I pick out a generous amount, and bite it off the fork. My eyes widen as the flavor explodes through my mouth. “Mmm.” I let out a satisfied moan as I chew the food, and swallow it. “This is delicious. Food has never tasted this good to me.”

“That’s because this food as been magically infused with gathered emotions. Best of both worlds.” My father laughs, already finished with his plate, and sipping his water lightly. I smile sheepishly, and start to pig out on mine. “Oh. That was good.” I say, and let out a contented sigh. I actually haven't. . . . Fed on any emotions in a while. Plus, I could only eat my mothers. . And, well, you get used to things, and they stop becoming as good. . You know? Imagine if you could only eat the same thing, day in and day out. over, and over again. Sure, it fills you up the first few times. But, it just keeps diminishing and diminishing.

“C-can we get more?” I ask. I hate this. I hate all of this. I want to  say ‘lets leave.’ So we can get on, and I can start my life. But. . That side of me. It’s craving more. Nearly uncontrollable. Nearly. But, I was raised as a civil pony, and I will stay that way. I won’t degrade into such a. . Monster. . . But. can I really keep thinking that? Well, of course I can. What good have they done? My father abandoned us, and started another family. And this cafe here, they steal emotions and feed them to other changelings.

But. . . Here I am. Complaining about everything. Complaining about everything that’s being given to me generously by those who I call monsters. . .And, I’m just sitting here, and taking all of it. “Actually. . . Never mind. Let’s just go. I want to sleep.” I say, even though it’s barely midday.

“Um. . Ok? You doing ok Fantasm? You seem kind of off today?” I shrug it off, as I walk away from the table. “So. Where are we headed? Where is this friend of yours who offered me a place?” My father laughs. “Ah yes. He’s a good old friend of mine. And a retired changeling operative like me as well. We both just wanted to settle down, and have a life outside the nest. . Things went far more smooth for him, though.” My father says, with a slight nervous laugh.

“Anyways, it’s a room, and a job. He owns his own bar, with an inn, or motel kind of thing up top. He offered you a ‘free’ room. As long as you work for it.” My father laughs again. “And, it’s only down the ways a bit. About a minute or so.” I give a nod, staying silent as I contemplate everything.

All my life, I’ve regarded my father, and that side of my blood, as monsters. As feral beasts, that only look out for themselves. But everything that he’s shown me so far make’s me think that I’m wrong. . . But, then I see how I’ve been acting. . I’m acting like the monsters I think they are. Taking what I need, for my own benefit and survival. I’ve barely thanked Obsidian as well.

I stop in my tracks for a moment. “Father. . . Thank you. For everything. . I don’t think I’ve said that enough. For all you’ve been doing for me so far.” I give him a small. And, for the first time in all my life. For the first time in all the times I’ve seen him, I finally see the stallion that was my father, instead of the monster I claim him to be. He gives me a small smile, and a nod as we continue walking forward.