The Endless

by BloomingStar

Rating: everyone
Tags: Romance, Tragedy, Slice of Life, Sad, Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Length: 39982

: A sequel for ‘Not Alone in Life, But alone in the Darkness’ in which takes place in three years.

A war is coming, evil closing in, he saved once and he can do it again for he has but the only potential to do so. Knowing that fighting against his own flesh and blood, he knew that it must be done. This is third part of Shard Vine's saga as he prepares himself against the evil and striving through hardships in life. Takes place after three years
This story has two types of romance: OC x OC and some OC x Sweetie Belle
Chapter 1 Pre-readed by: Nightmare Darkness

Published 2014-05-01 18:20:03 UTC
Last updated 2015-10-25 12:00:59 UTC

A start

The next day...

Shard and Venang went to their training grounds located at the east side of the terrace. The area was surrounded with a magical barrier that prevents any release of any kinds of magic to the outside of it. Shard focused in mastering his frost techniques while Venang focused on her fangs and her mobility. The two made an excellent performance in practicing their powers, but Shard was known to have such potential. When he was practicing his already known skills, his mentor suggested to him to make new abilities to strengthen his resolve. At first, he never thought of anything else aside from ice shards, frost force, and channeling dark orbs in which he rarely used because he didn't remember how he had done it before. He couldn't made up his mind until...

He hatched an idea like he thought of it outside the box. Firstly, he stepped back to gather concentration. Second, he jumped not that high, but enough to make sure never get much of a fall damage like he got few years ago. Finally, he went down along with a slam by his front hoof to the ground, causing an eruption then what came out was something quite a look. It created a deep and wide trench in a straight line along with sharply and deadly shards of ice between its sides along within middle of it. Venang was impressed by the kind of ability that he created as the trench disappeared into thin air and left ground still intact.

After a few hours, they finished their training and went back to their quarters to rest their hooves.

"Hey Venang, do you attend a school?" Shard asked.

"Yeah, why you ask that?" She replied

"What kind of school?"

"Ponyville High." She said as she sat in the bed next to him

Hearing this, Shard was suprised. "Really, eh? How come I never see you there?". His curiosity really wanted him more.

"Well, I was wearing a black hoodie jacket. I love wearing it. That's why you can hardly see a batpony there." She said as she booped him at the nose with a slight chuckle.

He was not amused, though, he really could not judge it.

"I see. Well, I hope I can see you in recess and lunch."

"Sure, buddy. I'll see you if I can." She replied as she stretched out her wings with a yawn as she nuzzled onto his neck as her wings covered them like blankets.

After a while, two went asleep. Shard was glad that he can still go to school even if he has a mission to undertake, have a job at least, though, it may be quite violent for him, and a bat pony friend since he had never seen one before, but heard about it.

Two days later at Ponyville High...

Recess...

Shard was sitting alone eating his sandwich as he was hoping Venang to show up. Few minutes passed, yet no sight of the pony with a jacket. Possibly, she was busy at the moment. He continued eating his sandwich at peace until he noticed the pony at the opposite side, a white coat teenage filly. He remembered her, she was one of the trios that went through various challenges to earn their cutie marks. He liked her since she's cute like a real charmer, though, it never meant to think of it more. The filly approached him and then sat next to him.

"Hi there, Shard." said the filly.

"Hey there, Sweetie Belle. How are you?" Shard replied.

"Just fine. I just want to be with my friend here since Apple Bloom is busy in doing the science project while Scootaloo is in the clinic again..." she sighed.

"Heh... Let me guess... she broke her hoof again because of doing stunts in the gym?

"Yeah. She never stops." She chuckled as she gave him a brohoof.

Five minutes passed yet still no sign of Venang. Shard cannot wait any longer since he needs to get back to class for a quiz in Math. He got up from his chair and packed up his bag.

"Let's go, Sweetie. We need to be ready for the quiz," he said as he walked out of the cafeteria.

"Yeah. This is gonna suck" she groaned as she followed him through the hallway.

Lunch...

Shard and Sweetie Belle went outside to eat their lunch at the sugarcube corner. They had a rough time in dealing with the subject since its known to be like the most boring one of all, second to history. They ordered two milkshakes and two chocolate pies as Shard payed for the expenses. After a few minutes passed, they finished and walked back to their school. As they reached the entrance door, they saw a paper at it which says: "Shard, meet me at the swimming gym later after your class". He took the paper and read it again. He would guess it's Venang.

"Shard, who is this pony that wants to see you?", Sweetie Belle asked.

"Just a new friend. Maybe she wants to show me a suprise or something. Anyway, let's go to our Art Class. I will deal with this later," he said as he continued walking down the hallway with Sweetie Belle following him.

Two hours later...

After class, Shard went to the gym, only to find it empty, surely Venang would be there waiting for him. He walked around a little bit until he found a note attached at the locker's room door. He looked at it that says: "Behind you". He looked at back then suddenly, water splashed at his face. After clearing his face, he saw Venang at the pool with a smile on her face. She said:

"Not much of a suprise eh?"

"I suppose so," he replied with a chuckle.

Shard then went to the pool, letting the water breeze his coat.

"Hey, Shard," she said as her wings flapped underwater to keep her in the surface as extra support.

"Yeah?"

"Are you busy this weekend?"

"No. Why?" he replied as he poured water on his face.

"Cause I was thinking if you want to go with me at my hometown: Dark Shallow. Just to show you around." She said.

Shard had never thought of going to a place full of bat ponies, not that he hates them, just the fact that it's creepy for him because of their eyes like they're looking at him either seductively or deadly and their fangs, too sharp. He never had anything to do anyway so he agreed saying,

"Okay, I'll go as long as you can show me your parents," he said with a smile.

"Thanks, dude. I really appreciate your answer."

Still the fear struck him since he couldn't tell the kind of parents that Venang has. What if they would be overprotective or being aggressively hostile at him. Only time will tell when he gets there.

Two hours later at the train station...

Shard and Venang were on board on the train on its way to Dark Shallows. It took like three hours of the travel time until the train stopped at its destination. After exiting from the train, Shard observed the surroundings of the town, very foggy and dark to tell. As they continued their way to the town square until they reached her home, a cave some sort with a large front door and blue torches.
Shard would really freak out if her parents would try to kill him like he would ever take away their child or anything that could malicious related.

As Venang knocked on the door, it slowly opened with an eerie sound as Shard gulped in fear. From the door, he saw her parents, a female bat pony with a dark silver mane and a male one with a dark blue mane. The color of the coat: Gray. Just the same as their daughter. The parents looked at him with a smiling expression at their faces, thinking that he would ever be killed by them. The father started to first say,

"What's the name of your friend, Venang?"

"Mom and Dad, this is Shard Vine. A colt that studied in the same school as me. He is also my companion."

"Wonderful! Our little filly is growing up so fast," the mother said with glee as she turned her face to Shard to hoofshake with him, "Hello there, Shard. First time being here right?"

"Yes. I got to say, this town is kinda creepy to be honest. No offense though," he replied as he scratched the back of his neck.

"It's alright, we hardly get any visitors here."

"And don't worry, we won't kill or even bite you. We are not that kind of creatures even if we were blood sucking fiends. Come inside, we want to know more about you," the father said as he noticed the young colt shaking with fear almost like ready to get a heart attack.

The two young ponies went in and sat down at the living room. Conversations began as her parents asked him question. Like lots of questions out of their curiosity.

"So, Shard, what do you for a living?"

"Just traveling that's all. It's my usual thing."

"How old are you?"

"Same as your daughter. 11."

"Have you ever heard our culture?"

"Uh... not really," the colt asked with confusion as to why her parents asked that kind of questions.

"Oh, okay. Just one last question: Is it true that you are a draconequus? Princess Celestia told me a draconequus that was a normal earth pony colt. She also told me that his gifted with powerful dark energies that could surpass even Discord and the Elements of Harmony. We hardly believed of what she said since you are just pony"

That kind of question made Shard twitched a little since nopony could ever understand his birth origin even his bloodline. He was the only one that was known to be created as normal. He took a breath and explained the answer to their curiosity,

"Okay, the answer is... Yes I'm a draconequus, but born as a normal pony like everypony. I was gifted with dark magic, but I hardly used them since my specialty right now is the element in ice and a special dark power called 'Blight'. My mother was a draconequus and my father was a normal earth stallion. They raised me to handle my own life, though, they had a hard time dealing with my problems at school. Tragically, they sacrificed their lives to let me survive when a fire broke out at our house. I was never told if they found them after the incident, no sign of their bodies. They just presumed them dead."

After the long explanation, the parents were intrigued and shocked by what he told about his parents' presumable death. Venang, who was sitting on the same chair with him felt bad for him after hearing the loss of his parents. Her ears drooped as she wrapped her left front hoof around his shoulder while nuzzling on it, hoping to comfort him.

"I feel sorry for you, Shard," she said with a sad expression.

Shard just shook his head as he wrapped his one front hoof around her saying, "It's alright. They gave me a chance to redeem myself in life. I will honor them no matter what," he replied in a confident tone.

"Well thank you for your time, Shard. I hope you will enjoy your stay here at Dark Shallows," the father said.

"Venang, you and your coltfriend should go outside and play for a while. Me and your father are gonna prepare for dinner," the mother added.

"Okay! Let's go, Shard. Let's play with our powers," the young bat filly said as she grabbed his hoof leading him outside.

"Don't you think we're gonna get any trouble for doing it?"

"Don't worry, there's a plain area that we can use to play there. Hope you can catch me using your powers!" She said with a smile on her face.

"Very well then. Powers it is!" he replied happily.

MEANWHILE AT CANTERLOT PRISON

"Eternum, I'm very sorry. I never thought that you would be a... different..." Phan Tom said as he touched the magical barrier that kept him from going out and using his magic. Walls were too magic proof.

"Please give me a chance to prove myself that how sorry I am. Please, Eternum, can you ever forgive me?" he said as he looked down in shame.

"He may forgive or may not," said a voice in front of him.

He looked up only to see...

"Princess Celestia?"

"Yes. Phan Tom. I was just listening of what you said. I believe that he will give you a chance, but it is up to him," she said.

"How?"

"Just wait for him. He will decide of what he will say," she answered in a serious tone.

"Okay. Thank you for that," he said with a little smile on his face.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

Next Chapter coming soon...

Those moments...: A Reflection

"Catch me if you can!" shouted the smiling bat filly as she flew with great speed.

"You're not gonna get away that easily!" said Shard Vine.

The two young ponies raced from the town square until to the wide plain area. Shard would really suffer exhaustion from running, but he would never give up trying. As they reached their destination, that's where the fun began. Shard summoned a large ice wall just in time for it to be in front of her, however, with fast reflexes, she immediately flew over the wall as the colt continued the pursuit. He then cast a hailstorm at her to slow her boost, but to no avail, she flapped her wings very fast that she couldn't feel the cold temperature. Only the option to win the game, Shard summoned a blizzard whirlwind at her, hoping to get her trapped to make her lose the game. Unfortunately, she somehow reflected the twister with her wings, causing a loud force. The twister, now moving to the colt's direction, formed into an icy shockwave with ice shards. He embraced for impact as he collided with it. The shockwave wasn't able to push him back, but it's ice shards pierced through a part of his left front hoof, causing a sliced mark with blood coming out of it.

Venang saw the wound, so she immediately flew to him and grabbed his wounded hoof. As she touched the slice, Shard gave out a little response that means 'Don't touch it.' She never thought that she could reflect that kind of power by big force. She didn't mind about since she accidentally hurt her friend real badly. The feeling of disappointment similarly like backstabbing your own friend behind his/her back.

"My gosh! Shard, are you okay?! I'm very sorry, I didn't mean that! Honest!" cried Venang as her ears drooped down.

"Yeah, I never expected you to reflect that kind of big. I'll be fine, Venang. Just need to stop the bleeding," the young colt replied with a slight chuckle and a smile on his face.

"I guess that kind of fun was too much pain eh?"

"I guess so."

"Come on, let's go back to my house to get that wound patched up. Dinner will ready soon." Venang said, still sad in disappointment.

Shard placed his wounded hoof around her neck so he wouldn't use it to walk back. Venang placed one part of her wing at his side for support in helping him to walk. The two walked back to town as the sunset began.

MEANWHILE AT CANTERLOT PRISON

Phan Tom sat at his prison bed, thinking about his cousin that became different from him and from them. He wished that he never did of his master's bidding, he believed that he would be better off with his cousin than his fellow tribe. He believed that only one thing that he always wanted to have his cousin back: Forgiveness.

He knew the fact the all he wanted was him. He wanted to be trusted and believed by him. As he blankly stared at the prison door, he recalled the past times with Shard Vine.

Five years ago before Eternum moved to Ponyville

The care

Eternum walked through the gym for his physical education class. Today's activity was dodge ball, an exercise to test one's agility. Their teacher was not yet present, so the students just walked around, playing other things, chatting with one another, some were even escaping to avoid the subject, but for Eternum, it wasn't a good time for him. Some colts threw the balls at him, causing him to prone in embarassment. The other ponies couldn't even defend him since the bullies were too scary and deadly. They continued on until blood came out from his mouth as he collapsed on the floor, causing him being unconscious. It was then, something terrifying came out from his body, a dark shadow appeared and formed as silhoutte hands. They shadows charged at the bullies and grabbed them through painful means. They strangled them, but couldn't kill them as the colt made a groan that made the shadows returned to his body. The other ponies were terrified and shocked by what they saw.

Phan Tom who disguised as a mysterious hooded pony, appeared in front of him and carried him by the use of his telekinesis. As he was about to take him to the school's emergency room, he looked at the bullies with anger in his eyes.

"Don't you ever mess with him. He is something more than you can ever imagine," he said as he summoned a dark blade at his left hoof.

"If any of you ever do this again, it won't be him that you all will be worrying about," he added as he pointed the blade right in front of their faces.

The bullies agreed by a nod, fearing of death. Phan Tom then exited the gym along with his sleepy injured cousin.

The understanding

Phan Tom trained him to use his powers properly and to learn more to be the unstoppable draconequus. When he saw Eternum casting an orb, he knew that it's different and very unusual to him and to his people. He tried to examine further, but it vanished as his cousin fell to his haunches due to exhaustion. Phan Tom believed that his cousin would be the only one to make the tribe as the most dangerous and powerful group to be reckoned with since his master told him that Eternum's mother, Lucra, had been one of the greatest and very skilled. The master also said that she's one of the few to achieve the life of immortality. Her son would be as well.

The Pain

As he was about to kill his cousin by lightning, a yellow earth filly appeared and took the shot. Eternum could not understand why would he believed a loss from his heart. After a few moments to silence, he looked at Phan Tom with fire in his eyes. Lightning appeared in front of him and a power surrounding him that looked like a shield or an initial form. His cousin couldn't believe of what he saw, a power that was known to be ancient to the draconequus tribe. Eternum slashed his way onto him as he unleashed the pain that Phan Tom would never forget in his life.

After recalling those memories, he said softly, "Please forgive me...." before he went to sleep.

BACK AT DARK SHALLOW

Venang wrapped the bandage at Shard's wounded hoof as dinner was almost ready. He was still very amazed that she would ever done such strength in just a single force like a in a push of a button. She went to the kitchen to help her mother setting up the food, leaving him alone for a while. Shard then made an ice flake from his other hoof just to pass the time as he saw a picture frame just beside her bed. He sat on the bed and held the picture to get a good view of it. What he saw was her with another bat pony that is a colt. He saw a message written saying: "I love you not because for being my coltfriend, but also being the greatest friend that I ever had in my life. I will always be with you". He placed back the picture at the frame as he tried to relate the message and his past. The line saying: "I will always be with you." was well related to what his cousin said to him through the letter that said: "I won't leave you hanging." He had a thought that if he could ever forgive Phan Tom after what the crimes he did: The destruction of Ponyville and the life of Apple Bloom. He needed a time to think through of what to do, but he was interrupted by a hoof tapping his shoulder. He turned around to see Venang with the hay fries and spiced herbs. She placed the food at the bed while saying,

"Shard, are you alright. Is something wrong?"

"Uh... Nothing. It's nothing, Venang. I was just looking at your picture," he replied as he scratched the back of his neck.

The bat filly placed the food at the short table just in the other side of the bed. She then sat beside him while pointing the picture.

"He was a good coltfriend. He would be there for me whenever I need him. I even gave him a crystal necklace as my proof to show him how much I loved him. We had a good relationship that was long, but not that kind."

"Why? What happenned?" he asked.

"He was dating with another filly, a non bat pony one. That was on hearts and hooves day, the day of our first year anniversary. He even gave to her that necklace, the one that I gave up for our love. He was either cheating on me or just using me to get that. Either way, I never cared about it anymore after that year. One day, he came to my house saying that he's sorry for not telling me the dark truth. I told him it's okay and he was forgiven, but I wouldn't want to see him anymore. I kept that picture with to remember the feeling of loving somepony that you cared about."

The young colt had nothing to say as he turned his face looking to the window.

"Hey Shard, don't be all saddy, I'm okay if you had another filly to love more than me, I'll still be by your side. Even if the rumor about you had a fillyfriend that you had been living with for a long time was true," she said.

Still the same, silence and nothing more. Venang became worried as she believed to have hurt him possibly of what she said either about the story of her relationship or the rumors.

"Shard, you also experienced somewhat similar to that? Losing your somepony?"

Shard then took a deep breath as he explained with his head facing down at the floor.

"Yeah. There was this pony that had been part of my life. She let me stay at her home like I was part of the family. We had been through the good time that I could not even stop thinking about it. She sacrificed my life on that time when my cousin tried to kill me. I was very lucky that she survived. I loved her from the start of my new journey," he explained with such tears.

"How did your relationship ended?"

"At the life of high school. She fell in love with another colt that looked more like a stallion than me. She walked with him. She worked assignments with him, and she even went on a bucking date with him for like many bucking times!" He shouted, but not that much to avoid a scene.

"Ouch. I guess yours was more like a suffering."

"No kidding," he replied as he placed his hoof at the top of his injured one, ignoring the pain.

"Its okay, it's all in the past now. About your cousin, it's up to your decision, but I suggest you forgive him for the least. He might even learn from his mistakes" she said as she placed her one side wing around his back.

One minute later...

"Venang."

"Yeah?"

"I'm gonna forgive my cousin very soon, even after what he had done to me, but still I had to do it. It's the right thing to do correct?"

"Yes it is," she replied with a smile.

"I'm gonna eat now," he said as he grabbed the plate.

"I'll help you with that, Shard. I don't want you getting marks that are more painful than the slice," she replied.

Shard had nothing else to say, so he just rolled his eyes and shrugged as he let her giving him assistance. After a while, the two then drifted to sleep at the bed while holding each other in a loving embrace.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

This chapter is a majority of the past moments of Phan Tom and Shard's reflection from his.

Just in case of confusion, I will clarify the name...

Shard Vine is actually Eternum himself. Just after three years, he changed his name to best describe his cutie mark.

Next chapter will be coming soon.

Forgiveness: Complications

Forgiveness: Complications

The next day at Canterlot...

Shard returned to finally forgive his cousin after the damages that he had done before. Although it would be painful to see him again after the years that went by, he still would be a loving relative no matter how different he may be from today until like eternity. He went straight down to the castle's basement as he saw a sign saying: HIGH LEVEL MAGIC BLOCK. He saw nopony guarding the entrance even for each the magic stasis cells, but he didn't care since he only needed to see him just to be done with. What he saw inside were criminal unicorns, failed experiments, and spirit creatures. The prisoners looked at him as he continued walking forward, some begging him to set them free while others hit the barriers. He continued walking as he saw one cell that was covered with electric coils and runic symbols and the creature sitting with his face looking down in shame.

He knew it was him.

Phan Tom looked up to see his cousin standing just in front of him. He stand in all fours and said to him,

"Cousin?" the young draconequus asked.

He didn't reply. There was only silence.

"I'm guessing that you're still mad at me."

Shard didn't reply once again. Instead, he moved one step back as his eyes turned to pure black with a demonic symbol as for each of his pupil. He raised his left foreleg upward in which the next thing happened was a form of white blight energy. It turned into an orb with it's center had symbol just the same as his pupils. He finally collided the orb with the stasis cell in which cause a spark of energy that of similar to an electric fuse. The energy waves then disappeared as the barrier was removed leaving an open space, signifying that he was finally free.

Despite the thought of guilt, Phan Tom was very suprised that his cousin would ever release him. That kind of power was very rare as it was only known to be a combination of light and dark energy that no one could ever done. He knew that his cousin was getting more stronger because of his talent. Still, he wouldn't believe that Shard would release him from his imprisonment. He had a thought that maybe he would finally forgive him or even worse.

The creature then asked him, "Why? Why are you letting me free?"

"I would never be mad at you forever, Phan Tom, even after all the things you had done," the colt replied with a smile as his eyes returned to normal.

"Does that means you forgive me? After what I did to you? The betrayal and your somepony?"

"Yeah, I forgive you for real. No jokes. It's the truth," the earth pony said as he hugged him with tears coming out from his eyes.

Phan Tom had nothing else to say, instead, he returned the favor. After a while, Shard then broke the hug and said to him, "Come on, let's go outside."

As they reached outside where the sun shined the land, Phan Tom felt the freedom that he had lost after those years of shame and guilt. The two sat on the terraces as they watched the view of the mass land like it's a scenery. After a while, Shard got up and finally said to his cousin,"You are free to go back," he said as he pointed out the view for him. "You need not to know why, but you always know that I will be your friend no matter how different that we can be on the sides between us."

"Shard, don't you ever thought this through? I mean, why would you let me go?" the draconequus asked.

"You still have a life that is worth living, you have to make the best out of it since you may not do it for a second time. Tell them that I freed you and I will be ready to battle them."

"Cousin..."

Shard placed a hoof at his shoulder while saying,"Someday, Phan Tom, we will meet again and that day will be the time where one of us will fall for the bitter end."

"I... I don't know what to say... Okay, I will see you soon, Shard Vine. May your countless days guide you for the battle of your life." Phan Tom said before spreading his wings then flew off.

Shard was happy now that he had forgiven his relative. He knew that he would face him again for the last time. Shard would prepare for that as well since he knew that he would either fail and die with pride and honor or succeed and eliminate to make history for Equestria.

Three hours later...

At the Carousel Boutique

Shard went there to ask for help for his one hard issue that he had been dreaming for past few months. He had a thought of whether to forget everything that he had before then move on with his life since he couldn't change the fact that she loved somepony better than him. Every time, he felt his heart pumping like exerting pressure of air in a gas can. Would he do it? The answer would just be on his decision.

He knocked on the door, waiting for somepony to answer. Possibly Sweetie Belle or her big sister, a mare with a curved blue mane and tail, a cutie mark of three diamonds, and known to be the element of generosity. As the front door opened, he saw the pony that he could asked for: Rarity.

"Why hello there, Shard, are you here to see Sweetie Belle?" Rarity asked.

"No, just need some help. Kinda need of advice somesort," the colt replied.

"Okay then, darling, come inside and take a sit at the couch." She said as Shard entered.

Five minutes later...

"So, Shard, what kind of issue that bothered you?"

"Its... about Apple Bloom. I lost my love for her," he said with his face looking down.

"Why? What happened, darling?"

"Ever since we moved to high school, there was this colt that took her heart, she immediately fell in love with him for the first two months. As time goes by, she had been blabbering about that young stallion and ignored me like I was never there anymore. I had to move out since it looked like she no longer cared for me."

"My goodness. I never heard of such heartbreaking reason like that," the mare said.

"What should I do, Rarity? This had been bugging me for so long now."

"Well, darling, I would suggest that you move on and forget that thing. I am not sure if she will ever go back to you, but just to be sure if that ever happens, forgive her apology for her ignorance. For now, just continue on and don't look back. Sooner or later, she might come back."

"Thank you, Rarity. I appreciate it."

"Your welcome, darling," she replied as she ruffled his mane, "Just think things differently and you will be fine."

After that, Rarity went to her room, doing the same thing as what fashionistas do.

Shard was then alone, feeling motionless around his body as he tried to understand the meaning of moving on. He felt that moving on was like the time he lost his parents as losing a family, then being asked by a pony to join her's. It was so confusing that he could even feel the world spinning around him. As he was about to decide, the front door opened, only to see Sweetie Belle who came back from her long singing practice. Shard remembered her practicing in such sweet talent that it would make him cry for like until a decade's pass. She saw him and said,

"Hi there, Shard. What are you doing here?"

"Just visiting. You know I hardly visited any ponies' residence," he replied.

"Yeah. Anyway, are you gonna attend the orientation later?" she asked.

"Let me guess, the dance thingy?"

She nodded.

"No, its not needed anyway."

"Me too, just a waste of time. But hey, are you free for tomorrow?" she asked as she was getting something from her saddlebag.

"Yeah. Why do you ask?"

"See this poster? There will be a play that will be coming out on school tomorrow. I already asked one reserved seat. I tried to ask Scootaloo, but she said it was too romantic for her and Rumble while for Apple Bloom, she already had one with another for his colt, you know. The one that you really hate," she added with a sigh.

That name. He knew that it was always that pony that the earth filly loved. Always together like forever.

"Okay then, so who are you gonna ask?"

The teenage filly just giggled and said, "Isn't it obvious, Shard? Its you," she replied as she pointed her hoof to him. "You wanna go?"

Shard had a thoughtful expression when it comes to her. In his opinion, she was very beautiful, smart, and talented. Although she was not the one for him, she was still known to be an inspiration to him like an angel that came down to give him a gift. Unlike Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle is more caring and loving to him that she wanted no other colts but him. The only thing problem that prevented that chance was that he loved the earth pony first. But now, her chance of what she like needed finally became true. He took a deep breath as he gave her the answer,

"Sure. Mind if I sleep with you this night?" he said.

"Yeah. And uh... thanks for the accept," she replied as she gave him a kiss while having her cheeks blushed light red. The two then walked upstairs then onto the room to rest for tomorrow.

MEANWHILE

"I cannot believe it. He let you walked out without any follow ups?" The Master said.

"Yes, Master. I never thought he would done that after five years of my imprisonment..." Phan Tom replied.

"I see. Then we should train further. I fear he may not battle alone."

"He will not, Master. He has a companion. A bat pony to be exact," he said as he showed to him a picture of her.

"No matter, we can still defeat them by any means. Now, the time has come for you to be part of my circle."

"I am honored for it, Master. Bound by blood." Phan Tom replied as he followed him to the ritual.

TO BE CONTINUED

Initiation : The pain

At an unknown location...

Phan Tom entered in a cave full of demonic symbols, red and blue fire, and at the center, a pool that looked like a decayed blood. He knew that it was the ritual. It was the area of summoning, evolving, sacrificing, and many more. As he walked closer to the center, the color torches were changed to gray. The Master was first to break the silence,

"The time has come for you to take on to the next stage of our bloodline," he said.

"Will I ever be deathless for this?" Phan Tom asked.

The Master then replied with such greatness and ferocity, "True, but it does not makes you immortal to everything. You may get killed permanently by any kinds of magic that ever deals with life and death."

"Oh, okay. What will I gain after this?" the young draconequus asked.

"Aside from immortality, you will have a new transformation. Your current body parts will be changed to a more improved ones than before," he replied.

After the conversation, Phan Tom stepped forward into the pool until he finally submerged into it. The flames from the torches were connecting with one another like a plugin being connected by a wire. A cycle was made as a lightning came out from the sky and hit the center. It was then, a new destruction was born. The young draconequus rose up from the unholy water and gave out a roar, sending a forcible shockwave around him. The Master was very pleased as the next stage of his protege's evolution will be the next phase for the war. Phan Tom looked himself at mirror only to see himself finally being different. His horn became sharp, his wings turned into somewhat the griffon ones, and his eyes, glowing red. It could only mean one thing for him: He was ready.

The next day at a wide distant plain near the park...

It was a normal day for Shard as he walked his way to the hill which was known for his favorite spot. He sat there and looked at sky as he let the wind breeze his coat. Looking further at clouds, he saw one of them that looked like a heart. This made him gave out a sigh and he looked down. Sadly, it reminded him of having being loved then being somewhat swept away from that reality. He had a thought of what would be the feeling of just not being loved not even once. It would've had been a quite problem to begin with. Shard would really forget the pain, unfortunately, the time would've been his chance as he saw piece of wood plank coming at his direction then slammed at his face, causing him to knock out as his vision turned to black.

One hour later...

He woke up, only to make a groan as he tried to gain his vision back. After restoring both of his eyes' view, he raised his head up not just to see that he's in either solitary room or a normal one, but he also saw what would mean really in trouble. What he saw were three teenaged colts. One was colored brown pegasus with a white curvy mane. The second one was light blue earth with a black spiky mane, and the last one at the middle was a gray unicorn with his mane such messed up. There was not even single word that came out from Shard's mouth as he tried not to make a possible early start. The middle one was the first to break the silence saying,

"Well, it's good to meet with you, Shard Vine."

"Who are you? How do you know me?" the young colt questioned.

"Didn't remember? Hmmph, I thought you were smarter enough to break the ice."

"Uh... Let me think..." he said as tapped his chin.

After a few seconds, his eyes grew wide as he noticed that colt from before.

"I remember now! You were Sweetie Belle's ex boyfriend, Brute" he finally said as he pointed a hoof at him.

"Hehe, yeah, that's true. Since now you know who I am, I think it's now the time for you to pay the price," he said as he took a step forward.

"What? What are you talking about?" he questioned.

"Sweetie Belle left me because of you, Shard Vine!" Brute replied angrily as he punched him in his left eye, "Ever since that start of high school, she wouldn't me give me another chance because of one thing I messed up back at middle school. She told me that I will never have her back because she felt so in love at you even if you were with that other filly! If I can't have her, then YOU CAN'T AS WELL!" he shouted out as he used his magic to levitate some stones,

He then threw the stones at him, in which in turned got cracked into pieces but also leaving Shard quite in a bad condition. The pain didn't stopped as the bully continued throwing the stones that were made of platinum .It was then, something new and quite horrible that would scar Brute for life. Firstly, force field appeared out of nowhere and trapped him along with his buddies. Second, they saw something surrounding Shard, black smoke appeared around him as his eyes turned to gray with demonic symbols appeared as to be it's current pupils. Finally, a roar came out from him as the smoke subsided, showing the changes to his appearance. The color of his coat changed to the darker version of it, his mane was still the same but it turned to pure black, and lastly, there were flames coming out from his eyes, similar to Sombra's.

He summoned a darker image of himself then commanded it to enter the field and beat the buck out of their darn minds. The torture was horrible as the image continued in punching until Shard commanded it to unleash one last consequence. The image sent out a shockwave of deep frost like a hail all over them, making them flinch and stutter in an ecstatic manner. The three colts were still alive, but now in bruises and somehow knocked out or possibly coma.

After doing the last payback, he dispel the force field and the image as it faded away into thin air. His new form was still there, but his eyes were returned to normal. Shard then slowly walked out of the room until he heard a banging. It felt like somepony was banging the door open, he was too afraid of what would come next after. When the door was removed, he summoned an orb from his left still injured hoof. The light was too much for him to see, but he was able to notice a figure in front of him. As the vision got clearer, he saw that it was Venang. He could'nt find the words on how she was able to locate him. The bat filly then ran up to him and embraced him while saying,

"Shard! I'm glad that you're still alive!" she cried out with tears forming in her eyes.

"Venang..." he replied, but about to lose consciousness as his eyes were gonna close by the moment, "Don't.."

Those wore his last words before he fell to a deep slumber.

Two days later...

Shard woke up only to feel his head being somehow placed in a slant position and his body being placed flat. He turned his face around to see the same things when he was in a bad condition. He knew it was a hospital for like countless time that he had been to. The obvious place was Canterlot. He looked at his right to see a mirror, so he used his telekinesis ability to get it. Shard was very glad that he was able to learn that kind of spell that unicorns usually do. When grabbed the mirror by his right hoof, he noticed that his mane, now returned with its other color and his coat, now back to its original version. As he placed the mirror back at the table, the front door opened, only to see Venang and their mentor. Venang was the first to speak out as she walked at the side of his bed ,

"Awake already?" she said.

"Hey there, Venang," he replied as he tried lifting his back, but to no avail.

"Woah, easy there, dude. You need to rest more."

"How did you find me?" he asked.

"I was trying to find you so I asked one your friends, Sweetie Belle. She told me that you were heading at the park. When I got there, I saw you being dragged away by those mischievous bullies. They teleported, so I couldn't know where they took you. After a while, I heard rumbling noises coming from Ponyville. I went to see a house being covered in a bubble like force field," she explained before taking another breath to continue, "When it disappeared, I tried knocking the door down by bucking it. Took a while before I finally saw of what I couldn't tell."

Shard made a chuckle and a sigh with his ears drooped.

"Well. At least it's over," he said.

"By the way, why is he here?" he added while pointing out.

"Oh yes," the mentor then called out, "I am here to tell you about your new form that you just acquired."

He then took a book then flipped into the pages until he pointed out one.

"In draconequus culture, they intend to make rituals for summoning, offering sacrifices, and mostly evolution. Whenever one participant will be evolved, he/she will undergo changes. The form will be different in obvious means, but will also gain more abilities and improved the previous ones. In your situation, you seemed to have the ability to transform into a more powerful demonic being than them, but you may not to be in control due to your emotions. You need to learn control your feelings in dire situations."

"I see. Thank you," the young colt said with a nod before turning the direction of his face to Venang's, "By the way, is Sweetie Belle here. I would like to see her privately."

Sure thing. We'll go now. Hope you get better soon ," she said as she and the mentor walked out of the room.

After like ten seconds, a while filly came running at him then embraced tightly.

"Oh, Shard! Thank Celestia, you are still here." Sweetie Belle cried out.

"It's okay, Belle. I'm alive. Just lessen the grip," he replied while rolling his eyes.

Sweetie Belle then lessen her hold, "I'm glad to visit you."

"Yeah. And by the way, I'm sorry if I wasted our c-..."

"It's alright. The only that matters to me right now is to see you still breathing," the young unicorn said, "I just hope that you will stay alive after finishing of what should be done."

"I hope so. Belle, I just want to say that... I... I love you," Shard said with a weak smile.

"I love you too, Shard. To be honest, I started falling in love with you when you moved at Ponyville," she replied as she gave him a kiss on his cheek then nuzzled on his neck. The young colt then just responded by stroking her mane lovingly.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

Next chapter will be coming soon

Searching an old to the new ( Part 1 )

One week later...

Ponyville High School

Shard had went to the library just to keep his mind off from what had happened. He looked to see a sign at the far end corner saying: 'Ancient History Section'. He ventured there to see what there was. Just plain books, but he noticed one that was very different from the others. A book that was somehow old because it had some parts torn and dusty like its from the middle ages. Curious about it, he grabbed it from the shelf and sat on a nearby chair.

When he flipped one page, he noticed the title was blurred out, so he used a pencil to try retracing it. After a successful doing, he was able to get the good view of the title. It said: "Ancient Draconequus Relics". It was very suprising to him since he had a thought that maybe any of the artifacts could be of help to him. He then flipped to the next page, then onto another, then another again.

It had been a hour of his searching of something valuable to him. He stopped to see a page with an image that looked so interesting to him. It was a talisman with its disc that had a symbol that looked exactly the same as his eyes when in his metamorphosis. He looked through its description to understand its concept. The amulet was known for an archon transformation. It also said that if a draconequus already had one transformation, the archon form will fuse with the current one and will ease the control process and his/her inner demon, giving the draconequus free will to transform at any time. With that kind of artifact, he could handle his form anytime without any worries.

He wanted to known the location of the artifact, so he looked down further to see what else that had been written. It said that the ancestor's placed in an ancient temple in Saddle Arabia. He hoped that it would still be there. Secretly, he gently tore up the page without anypony noticing since he could be in really big trouble. He placed it in the bag, returned the book to the shelf, then casually walked out of the library, hoping nopony saw him stealing.

One hour later at the park...

The young colt continued walking until he sat on a bench, looking again at the paper. He had a thought that if ever would be worth enough for his cause. But was it really needed? Probably so, he just needed the strength to carry on. He just needed the power to be strong enough to fight against all of them. The determination clouded his mind with only that thing. He wondered what would he do after getting it? He could just absorb some of its energy enough for the stability of his powers. Should he find another aritfact? Those questions whirled around his mind as he tried to think the best answer for all. It would have had been a good time, until an interruption appeared.

"Shard?" said a female voice.

He flinched as he shook his head to return his mind to reality. Was he thinking while his eyes were open? How long was he out? He turned his head to his right to see Sweetie Belle who was sitting beside him.

"Oh Sweetie Belle, what are you doing here?" he asked.

"I was here for like thirty minutes. You were sitting still and talking to yourself," she replied with a worried look.

"Oh, I see. Well, its just that I found this page from a book that could help me in my metamorphosis," he then showed the page to her.

"Will this really help?"

"We may never know," he replied, "I'm going to Saddle Arabia since that's where the temple should be and I hoped it would still be there. I'll leave later by five in the afternoon."

"Do you really have to go?" she asked with a sigh as her ears drooped.

Shard tried to find the courage to say something next since he couldn't see her being down when he had to undertake dire situations. He took a deep breath and said,

"I'm sorry, Belle. I have to do this in the early time since they may attack soon and I could not have enough to battle. I will be back, okay? Remember that I'm doing this for you," he said as placed his right hoof around her neck.

"Okay. I'll wait for you," she replied with a weak smile as she leaned at his shoulder.

Later at the train station...

Shard waited for the train to come by as he sat on the nearby bench. He finally had a thought for the answer that whenever he wanted more power, he will always find more. He understand of the responsibility of powers that he can gather from time to time, but he had to do it since he believed that it was the only way to prevent number of casualties. As the train arrived, he checked his saddlebag to make sure that he had everything settled for his journey. He then entered the train as it began to move.

Three hours later...

Still in the train as nightfall started, the colt looked out at window to see such view of the landscape. Peaceful time for him since he wanted a moment of no disturbance or any annoying stuffs that would ruin his peace. But it wasn't a good time for him to relax as he heard a sneeze coming from behind. He turned his head to look nopony else except one that was in a jacket with his/her head covered by its hoodie. That sound of the sneeze seemed familar to him, he heard that before, but couldn't get the exact answer. Really getting suspicious right now, he summoned a shadow to the floor, then ordered to set its direction to that pony. Slowly, it moved without getting that other pony's attention.

As it now waited under the chair, Shard raised his left hoof, commanding it to hold his target, and it worked without any restraints. He got up from his seat and walked straight to the hooded pony. He removed the hood that was covering the face only to get shocked, but not like in suprise.

"Venang?" he asked in a confused tone.

"Uhhhh..... Hi there, Shard?" she nervously said.

"What are you doing here? You knew that I would go to Saddle Arabia?" he questioned as he commanded the shadow to release its grip, then he vanished his summon,

"Yeah, Sweetie Belle told me a few hours ago and I felt like I can't let you do this alone," she answered.

Shard's only response was a sigh and a facehoof.

"Come on, Shard. We're partners, we need to stick together. That's what partners and friends do, right?" she pleaded with her eyes being wide like a puppy's.

The teenaged colt gave out a chuckle and said, "Well, I can't judge that. And it is true. Alright then, just stay close to me, okay."

The bat filly squee in delight.

"By the way, can I sit next to you?" she added as the colt was about to get back to his seat.

He turned his head to her and said with a smile, "Yeah, I'm okay with it."

One hour later...

It was ten in the evening and the two that were very tired, but still awake. Venang was about to get her eyes closed for her so called beauty sleep while Shard still looked out at the window just looking at the trees passing by. The bat filly had been thinking, being his partner for the unexpected battle and her best friend for so, well, not really the only best but she considered her as number one. She had a thought of like a being in relationship with him even he had loved with somepony. He was very kind and caring in her opinion and she believed that he would take two for 'Hearts and Hooves Day', though, she wouldn't wanted it to be if he never liked it. Still in silence, she decided to break it by asking him,

"Shard."

"Yeah, what is it?"

"Do you like me?"

Shard gave out a little laugh, "Hehe, of course I do. Its what friends do."

"No, I mean 'like'. You know, you like me as you love me more than just a friend," she said as she leaned closer to him and placed her head at his shoulder.

This got him really in a complicated, yet easy situation. Sure he loved her, but also Sweetie Belle. He couldn't decide for one pony since both of them were cute, friendly, and beautiful like they were risen from Tartarus. He took a deep breath as he gave her the answer through the hear,

"If you want to put it that way, yes. I love you and Sweetie Belle. And at the same time, I always want to enjoy Hearts and Hooves Day with you two. I don't want you both to fight for whoever gets me, since I can't take much of seeing the pain from you two. And also, even if I had to see other beautiful young mares that can take my attention and may have me be in love with them, always remember that I still love you," he explained with a mannered smile.

The teenaged filly then blushed of what he said, twice the love, he might be serious or just really crazy for her and Sweetie Belle. Nevertheless, she was very happy that he would love her and never leave her.

She then gave him a kiss on the cheek as she drifted off to sleep while whispering, "Thank you."

The young colt responded by going placing his hoof around her shoulder, keeping her stay close to his side.After a while, he went off to a good slumber.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

Next chapter coming soon.

Searching an old to the new ( Part 2 )

Some time later...

Hours passed, the two ventured onwards on the sandy road to nothingness as the sun shined so bright like it's the only temperature. Walking through the grains of sand and feeling the harsh heat, they still moved on for they can't stop now. After another hour, they stopped at their tracks as they noticed a figure at a distance, could it be the temple that he believed that it would still be there? Only one way know exactly the answer, he cast a trail of ice at the direction of the figure.

"You might want to hold me, this might be quick than you know it," he said with a smirk.

The bat filly tilted her head and asked, "Are you sure? What if I slip?"

"Just make sure you keep it tightly and stay close to my side so you will be fine. Trust me," he replied with a confident smile

"Okay.."

Venang wrapped firmly her one wing around his neck as she moved close to him, hoping that he would be right about it. As everything settled, the two stepped at the icy floor as a force of wind appeared behind them. It pushed them forward in a fast rate like heart that would beat more after exercising. Venang wanted to scream, but in wouldn't be worth it, instead, she closed her eyes and nuzzled her head onto his neck. She felt the force like she was encountering a typhoon.

As it brought them now the entrance of the temple, the wind subsided and the trail was then melted. Venang released her hold as she took one step forward while saying,

"Is this it?" she asked in a curious tone.

Shard took out the page from his saddlebag and tried to compare it from the thing that was standing right in front of him. He noticed that the symbol at the top was the from the paper, including its markings that were very unknown to him, possibly in ancient draconequus language.

"Yeah, this is it. Let's go," he answered as he and Venang entered through.

When they reached inside, they saw that there were many treasures like gold, jeweleries, and even ornaments that were ancestral. They ventured forward further down the corridor. The torches were mysteriously lightened up as they continued walking into the deep bowels of the temple. Reaching the deep floor, they saw a trail of blood leading to the door at the far end of the hallway. Venang looked spooked as felt like it could be trap as there was silence in the air. The smell was horrible from what she could sense. She turned her head to him and said,

"Shard?"

"Yes, what's the matter?"

"I don't think we are not alone. By the blood trail, it looks like somepony was also searching for that," she pointed out.

"Maybe," he replied as he moved his head down, smelling the blood, "This was just recently. We better move quietly, Venang. I think there will be an ambush."

As they moved straight, following the trail, they noticed that the torches from the sides they passed by, turned to blue light flames. When they reached just the middle of it, they stopped, looking to see the ones that were in front of them turned their flames into the same color. Silence occured as a fog appeared infront and behind them, signaling for there was trouble now. They heard a loud groan, but could not tell where it was because of the mist. As the sound was getting louder, the colt was getting more nervous as he gritted his teeth like grinding a cheese. A moment later, the sound stopped as the foggy air subsided. What they saw in front of them was something that would signify that they just found the security system. What stood before them was a bipedal walker. Its appearance was a like a knight, but only looked like more of something like in the end of the bargain. Its armor was like platinum with some sand particles and the helmet covered its face. The helmet's center face had a symbol, similarly to his pupils.

Really in for big trouble, the two prepared one of their techniques for the first battle ever in their life. Shard summoned a sharped ice blade and threw it at the walker. Venang, on the other hand, somehow ignited her forehooves with green flames as she flew on top, then made her descent swiftly, bringing out her fired hooves at it. The walker respond with a sand spear, directing it to the colt. He was able to dodge quickly, but in return, he received a slice at the side of his cheek. Blood came out, but it wasn't normal as it was black in color. This made him quite furious as his eyes turned bright gray, signaling that he somehow starting to lose minor control. He unleashed a frosted shockwave at it, somehow almost killing it as the walker started losing some pieces of its armor, fading into sand. The two landed one last blow on to its chest by a combined power of ice and flame. The combination turned to a spiral orb as it made collision with the guardian. This made a huge bang as it destroyed the creature, leaving nothing but sand as its remains. Venang noticed that Shard wasn't feeling okay as his eyes were still glowing and feeling reckless.

"Shard, are you okay?" she asked.

The colt's eyes stopped glowing as he shook his head like was feeling dizzy, "Yeah, I'm fine. It's just that sometimes, I can't control further of my own self"

"I hope you can still make it."

"I hope so too," he replied as they opened the door, revealing the chamber, the main room.

There were bones scattered from left to right, dried blood stains at every pillars, coffins of old, and treasures, lots and lots of jewelries and gold coins. What stood before them was a pony like demon, covered in black flames, hardly tell his appearance. He then called them out, breaking the silence,

"You two are but fools to ever enter in this... sanctuary," he said before a moment of pause to continue, "But I noticed you, young child. Seeking to get one of her prized artifacts. Interested for safekeeping, eh?" pointing out to Shard.

The colt stood in silence, unable to respond as he began to shake in fear. Unable to figure of how the demon learned his mission in getting the talisman. It was either he was good at reading other ponies' minds or he was a draconequus like Phan Tom. Nevertheless, he won't find the answer if he just stood there being like a statue. He took a moment of taking a breath before finally calling out his response,

"Yes, I do. What kind of temple is this?"

"It was once the house of treasures belonged to the 'Wretched Fiend', one of our strongest Deathless. She was last seen a couple of years or so. We searched for her location for the past, but she vanished without even a single trace of her blood. Many of her followers believed that she banished herself and plot to renew of what our fate is today. I sensed you, young one, you have the same type of blood as us, but of course, I cannot comprehend the truth until I can find out for myself."

After that, he slammed his hoof to ground, causing a minor quake, in which also caused them trouble. Coffins were opened up unexpectedly, revealing skeletal bipedal guardians with their shields and swords, very point and deadly swords. This caused Shard to shiver such while Venang, on the other hoof was shaking so badly that she was about pass out. He turned his gaze to her and said, "Venang, you handle the dead ones, I'll take care of that freak."

The bat filly didn't hesitate to respond for protest, so she gave a quick nod, agreeing to what he said and started flying.

Venang's POV

I flapped my wings enough to get high above the skeletons. I started channeling flames from my front hooves as one of them tried to jump to get me, bunch of dumbos. Anyway, I started throwing fire balls at them, incinerating them completely, but it's not the end for me just yet. More of them coming out from the same coffins that were opened. I thought only one per each? Oh well, I got spare time to do so. I continued to burn them to crisp as every single one of them tried to catch me by jumping into the air, but to no avail. It was then, I noticed some of them coming out from all of the sarcophaguses. Archers, bow wielding skeletal freaks.

They fired arrows at me, but I was too quick for them to ever get me. Dodging every single of those, I counter with a flap of my one wing to reflect their direction, leading them to those bad breath stinkers. But then, my luck started to ran out as more of them keep coming. I continued reflecting until one passed through the side of my left wing. I held back the pain, but I started losing my control in flying. More arrows passed the sides of my body, leaving marks at my legs and wings. I started losing consciousness as I felt my self falling onto below. The last things I saw were the undead soldiers, waiting to surround me as I almost reached the ground and my partner still in the heat of battle. I closed my eyes and hoped that he will succeed...

Shard's POV

I began the first strike with a chilling ice spear at him. A shield appeared infront of him as it disintegrated my attack. I started charging towards him as he did the same. We collided our best techniques, we were somehow equal in strength. I gave out a strong punch to his chest, in which he countered with a fiery blow to my face. The two us were sent back from one another, gasping for air as we struggled to keep the fight on. We started another charge against each other, collding once more as we tried hitting one another by our best skills. He was too quick to dodge every single orbs that I channeled, but I wasn't giving up that easily. I started another charge, this time, I channeled a dark orb from my hoof as my enemy did the same, but a more advanced one. We started colliding our orbs until...

A blast appeared, causing a large eruption and a piece of disturbance. Energy flowed through ours as the two orbs released an electrical wave of flashing electricity, causing to shock us in pain. After a brief moment through that, we were sent back from one another for the second time, but this time, I was in a critical tight spot. The shock caused my nerves to stutter as I tried to get up, but to no avail. My heart was beating at an accelerating rate, possibly to how much pressure I had gathered to create that kind of reaction. The demon got up without even a moment to soon as he was laughing, mocking at my defeat and to one thing...

I looked behind to see her surrounded by the guardians, she was bleeding very badly as they prepared to do something that I would not want to know. I heard her soft voice calling me out,

"D-Don't... d-d-die..."

This had gone from the bad scenario to the worst of all. I shed a tear as I noticed that she wasn't breathing. No, this cannot be it.

"Hahaha, you fought bravely to challenge. But look now at the prize for that cost."

I turned my head back to him, giving him a glare. The worst thing that had ever done to me was like the same as before, but now for a difference. I felt hate and revenge running through the course of my body as I felt myself being covered in a dark mist. My eyes started glowing as I sensed my pupils changed to the symbols that represented my true bloodline. All I could do was feeling anger, no pity as I would never leave mercy. The mist subsided revealing to what made me to have no sympathy to kill...

The demon of your own

Anger, a type of attitude that would cause one to lose control due to irritation, some of course would do their best to keep their pressure stable. But for Shard, he was an unlucky one. Pure hatred had devoured his heart with nothing but guilt and vengeance as he stood up, showing his nature of redemption. The demon was in a shock to see such form that a draconequus can never do. A minor quake appeared as one of the pillars started to fall down, signaling that it was destiny for him to make an ending.

The colt charged at high speed, dodging quickly every spears that tried to hit him. He lashed out a punch at the demon's face, breaking the shield and giving a taste of his own medicine. As his enemy was pushed back, he raised his left hoof, channeling a light orb as it formed into several shards of ice. But this time, the shards were in gray color and covered with black vines for every one of them. He then pointed his hoof at him, sending them charging straight to his target. The demon tried to block, but to no avail as every all of them pierced through him as the vines started take on hold to him. He tried to break free, but suffering now much loss of blood and the fear of the new demon, he stopped in defeat as he watch the colt walking closer to him with a dark ice shard in his hoof.

"That power.... I cannot believe it in my own eyes...."

Shard never respond, but only a growl.

"Hehe... I see now that you are truly one of us, but not as strong enough as Lucra-," his sentence was cut off as the colt impaled the shard to his chest, causing him to shock in pain.

"You know what? I am sick of hearing you saying her name," Shard now finally replied, "Don't you ever say that my mother being the 'Wretched Fiend'. I don't know why and I don't care cause I only seek to find peace in redemption"

At that, he pushed through the impaling as he watched his most hated enemy coughing up blood, signaling death.

"Y-you?..... her son?" his last words before being burned into thin air.

Shard watched him fading away like a fire being hosed down. He retrieved the amulet and placed it around his neck. Nothing appeared, so he would just wait for it to take effect. He looked behind to see the guardians walking towards him. Having enough of the pain he went through and the possible death of her friend, he prepared himself another shard of ice, but he noticed them instead bowing to him. Confused, he asked,

"Why are you all bowing to me?"

One of the dead raised his sword with a reply, "Because you freed us from his control. We sensed that you have the same power as our mistress, Lucra. Saying that she is your mother, we vow to serve you as our own leader. You can lead us to the future of your choice. We apologized if we almost killed your associate."

The colt was very confused hearing of what the dead pony said. Being the next successor, it would be an honor, though, he never wanted to be royal and all. Hearing that how sorry they were for somehow killing or not his pony, he tried to be mad, but he wouldn't want to worry that much to them since it was done accidentally or possibly intentionally because of that demon. He tried moving, but the pain from his hooves and the transformation he used really took the toll on him.

"Aaaccck.... this will be hard to make a return", he said with a groan as fell unconscious, letting slumber take him.

TWO DAYS LATER

There was a bright light that beamed down his face. He raised his hoof to cover the portion of it to let him look around as he raised his head and back up. He was in his quarters, his body was fully recovered from the bruises and the amulet was still around his neck. He turned around to see Venang who was still sleeping and had some bandages covering up her wounds, especially at her wings which were covered up badly. He sighed in relief but also in a bit of disappointment. He almost lost her, and she shouldn't take the big pain. It should've had been him, like how it should've had been when his ex almost gave up life for him.

He got out of the bed, carefully not awaking the bat pony. As quietly as he did, he reached to the door, opened it, then went out before closing the door behind him gently. He continued trotting his way down the hallway until he reached the terrace as his stop for fresh air. As he sat down in his haunches and letting the cold wind breeze his coat, he looked up in the sky, watching them aimlessly.

His moment was interrupted as felt a presence coming at his position. He turned to see his mentor.

"Feeling good now, eh?"

"Yes, I wonder how me and Venang got out," the colt replied.

"Well, I heard that you two were being found at the terrace two days ago, me and the guards brought you two to the emergency room to have your wounds healed, especially her since it was kinda much to cover," he then pointed the amulet that Shard was wearing, "I believed that you went through a challenging adventure to get that artifact to help with your transformation."

"Yeah, I just hope it will work for me."

"I'm sure it will. Now, I suggest that you go to the training grounds to test that out."

"Okay, I'll see you later," he replied happily as he began trotting to the practice area.

AT THE TRAINING GROUNDS

This was were he will take the opportunity to test to see if his mission was worth the near-death experience. He took a deep breath before exhaling out heavily as he started making a connection of his powers to the amulet. His eyes started to glow bright gray as like an expensive light switch was turned on, Black and white fire started appearing from the ground, surrounding him like an immolation, and electrical waves were coming out from his body. As now was the time to make fusion, he screamed loudly and stomped his forehooves at the ground, causing a large earthquake to shake the ground ferociously.

The sounds from those two were so immensely strong, it caused every civilizations in Equestria to be flinched in fear and despair.

After that, the immolation, the electric waves, and the glowing of his eyes started to vanish. He tried casting one of his spells to see a new difference. First, he summoned one chunk of a glacier as his target. Then second, he cast a shard of ice from his hoof with extreme concentration, aiming to it to its target before firing. What he noticed from the sharp crystal was in a different state, like it was being tainted in corruption. The color became dark gray and there was like a whirling white form of energy around it. As it began colliding with the glacier, there was a brief moment to silence before a huge bang started to hear out like a highly explosive dynamite.

The result of the impact was the glacier, now in chunks of pieces like rock candies. He was quite impressed with the new power he had right now. The next thing he did was summoning a plain ice mirror, just enough to see his own reflection. He was shocked to see himself in his newfound form. His mane and tail were still the same, just only turned to pure light sky blue. His coat turned to gray, almost like he was now a corrupted pony. His eyes, became pure blue, though he can see, so he's not really blind. His cutiemark changed into a diamond being wrapped around black vines. Then finally, one shocking thing that really made him confused, though expressed such amazement.

Wings. Wait, he earned wings? But they were not like normal wings from a pegasus.

"I earned wings?" he said in confusion as he turned around, then looked back at the mirror to see the full of view of them, "It never said that I would gain any new parts for my body."

...

"Oh well, at least I can fly!" he shouted with happiness as he jumped in mid air, trying to activate his wings, but they did not respond to flap. So, he hit the ground with a thud, his whole body was hit flat, and said a word for regretting this first attempt without even knowing any knowledge of flying.

"Buck..."

It was then, as he got up and fixed himself and went back to his original form, he heard a laugh coming from behind. He turned around to see Venang, who somehow be able to walk even with lots of covers around her legs. He smiled as he walked straight to her and said,

"You saw that attempt, eh?" he asked as he scratched his head.

"Yeah. That's alright, I can help you if you want," the bat filly replied.

"Thanks," he said as a brief moment of silence appeared. Then embraced her as she returned as well, "I'm glad that you still live for me."

"Me too," she replied happily as she shed a single tear while closing her eyes and feeling him stroking her mane.

The two were happily holding at each other, glad that they both survived and still be with one another.

MEANWHILE

"Did you hear that, Master?" Phan Tom asked with such concern.

"Yes, I heard it, that scream. He is getting stronger."

"Should we be worried?"

"Maybe, but remember that we will not be defeated that easily. There is no way that he and his partner can beat us all," the Master replied in such serious tone.

He added, "Improve your skills, young one, you will be our greatest tool for the upcoming war against him.

Hearing those words, Phan Tom started to shiver like bits, but he understand that what must be done should be done, even if he had to fight his cousin again to the real death. He gave out his answer without hesitation,

"Yes, milord. I will be prepared for it."

"Very good, now return to your resting post. We will speak more about our special motive.

As the young draconequus nodded, he walked out of the meeting room, on the way to his private sanctuary. He was in disappointment, though, battling him again until to the last warrior left standing. He gave out a sigh as he said to himself,

"I pray that you will be ready, Eter.."

A test of one's mettle

THE NEXT DAY

7:03 PM

"Are you sure you want to be alone?" asked by the bat filly.

The colt replied, "Yeah, just need to manage my new powers somewhere else. I'll be alright and be back for dinner." He then waved a hoof as he began going into his new metamorphosis.

He then flapped his wings, getting off the ground as he now starting to fly out of the terrace then going through somewhere he can find meditation.

AN HOUR LATER AT A DISTANT PLAIN AREA

He knew that it would be the same place to begin. Still in his transformation, he stood up in all fours as he began to put more of his skills into the test. He raised his right hoof up as white-gray energy starting to from around it. It formed into a white-gray sphere, almost similar from his original one. It had spiral waves around it, whirling through different directions. He marked his target, in front of him was a tree. He began charging forward without hesitation as he then collided his orb with the tree. The contact was much in brute force, almost like breaking a powerful barrier. The result was the tree now had its center part with a big hole and its branches were fell down. He was impressed by the power of his new orb because it was almost like lethal to everything.

His next concentration was the glacial fissure. He took a step back as he began taking a deep breath. After exhaling the air from his mouth, he raised both of his forehooves up, then stomping them into the ground. He felt the energy coming from his hooves starting to form into spikes as they began charging forward until it reached into a certain point where they explode into like dust of cold mist, causing a loud bang. The result from the explosion had the fissure appeared in a straight line. He walked forward to see its deep end. What he were things that would really best for him to avoid getting to fall even to the innocents that would be foolishly enough to be in the line.

Third was a frosted gust. He pulled his left hoof and then pushed it forward, releasing a minor shockwave form of ice. It was a concentration spell, but his energy was infinite so it was fine. He then stopped his concentration, chuckling didn't want to keep his hoof frozen forever. He sat down on his haunches as he began breathing heavily because of exhaustion. He was happy that the improvement was real, would be real enough for him to be ready in taking on the war. Just as he was about take another moment to inhale air, he sensed movement coming from behind. He immediately summoned from his right hoof a corrupted ice shard and threw it behind him without hesitation. As he heard it explode, he stood up and looked behind to see the pony who was approaching him.

He could not believe of who it was.

It was Phan Tom. His appearance became different. His horn now sharp like a pencil, his wings became more like a griffon's, but just as pointy as well, and his eyes were glowing pure red, almost like a demon of hatred. The new demon was in suprised that his cousin was in a new transformation as well. He smiled as he broke the silence whirling around them,

"Hello again, Eter, been testing your magic, eh?"

"Yeah, I absorbed an amulet that I found in a temple from Saddle Arabia. It gave me wings for no reason, but I like it," the young colt replied happily as he gestured Phan Tom to see his new kind of wings.

"Well, you can now fly like me."

...

"By the way, can I ask a request?"

"Sure thing, cousin, say it away."

"I want to have battle, a short one don't worry. I want to see your skills. Just to know how much you progressed."

Shard was in a state of choosing a decision. If he had to fight him for testing each other, he would make sure that he should not tell it to anypony about it. He had to make sure that Venang must not be around to intervene as she might think of it like it was a real death match. Nevertheless, he would just reason with her to avoid the misunderstanding. He took one a deep breath and two steps backward with the answer that he always wanted to say,

"Alright, give me your best shot, Phan Tom!" he said with a smirk on his face.

"Well then, I declare this match begin!" the young draconequus replied with an evil smile as he took two steps backward too.

In a brief moment of looking at the gazes from each other, the two began charging with limitless hesitations. The demonic colt summoned a dark orb with gray vines whirling around it while the corrupted one concentrated a white-gray sphere with white spiral waves. Two spheres were collided as it pushed them back from each other with great force. A huge bang was heard following a smoke white gust. The bang was loud enough for Ponyville to hear and Canterlot. The two young draconequui continued on their fight by their magic affinities.

Taking into the skies, Phan Tom released dark flames from his mouth while Shard pushed out his both of his forehooves, releasing a powerful version of the frosted gust. Two magics clashed, releasing waves of energy and a bright light. Their concentration spells were evenly matched as if neither of their spells got the advantage against each other. They stopped their channeling and landed at the ground. In a short time, they looked again face to face, understanding that both of them were improving greatly and were stronger very equally. Without another moment of catching a breath, they released their signature abilities.

Shard summoned a chunk of ice from his hooves then pushed it by turning around and used his back legs to kick it. Phan Tom saw it coming as he cast a flammable shield around him, breaking the ice in quick succession into bits and pieces and melting them into water. He rubbed his raised both of his forehooves, creating dark fireballs, then throwing them in a straight line before adjoining them together into one big like comet. The archon summoned a frost gust into a form of a wall. It blocked the flammable ball until it exploded, leaving another bang and smoke covering him.

Just as Phan Tom was expecting to be victorious, a frost gust appeared immediately infront of him, not giving him time to react. He was sent back and forced him to get hit by a tree behind him, feeling the pain on his wings and his spine as he slipped down onto the grassy ground. As he shook his head, regaining his consciousness, he looked up and saw Shard flying so high in the sky that he could barely see him because of the glooming moon. He noticed his cousin was holding a sphere from his hoof, signaling that it's time to end in one way. Phan Tom got up slowly and stood in all fours, opening his injured wings, channeled another orb for the second time. He called him out loudly,

"Ready to end it?!" the demonic colt yelled to get his cousin hear him.

"Yeah, time to bring this match into a close!" the corruputed pony replied loudly as well.

At that, the two began charging again into the skies. Getting closer. Closer now to closure. Ending the fight with one huge and a painfully loud...

BANG!!!

It was a very loud sound. So loud that it got every cities around Equestria in attention. Some were in shocked in fear and some were in shiver of hoping that it was just a thunderstorm.

The bang gave out a result of the two landed with a thud on their front. Because of their strong power, the collision of their orbs did a number on the forest around them. Most of the trees were broken down into twigs and the ground became in pure soil like it was hit by a nuclear missile. Both of them were in pain, but Shard was the only one who can endure it. He slowly got up and looked at his cousin still down and with no means of fighting more. The archon was victorious. He let out a monstrous screech, echoing it to the skies. He turned back to normal and slowly walked over to his defeated enemy.

The young colt was first to speak, "It looks like I won the match, cousin."

"Haha, you are always a worthy opponent to me, Eter," he replied with a chuckle as he ignored the pain of standing up.

"So, what do you plan now?"

"I will have to go back to our tribe's fortress. It may be long, but I will be fine. Until then, good luck."

At that, Phan Tom flew up high and went out without any trace.

"See you soon, cousin," Shard said with a smile as he began flying back to Canterlot.

TO BE CONTINUED

Deep memories: Rescuing an old friend

TWO DAYS LATER AT PONYVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

Shard was at the cafeteria, alone eating his lunch break since his partner needed more time to recover from her injuries. While eating, he picked up a book from his saddle bag, placed it at the table, and opened it. It was the same book that he found at the library. He was searching more artifacts that could be of interest for him to use as an additional benefit to his powers. He looked to see images of a dagger, a tome of forbidden magic, a relic, and a scroll with an unfamiliar rune, in which not made him have the liking to them. He continued searching in hopes of finding more of value.

After half an hour, he had no luck, so he closed the book and put it back inside his bag. He sighed as he believed that the book had no more of interest for him. He had no more classes after lunch so he had nothing to do much for today. He carried his bag, walked out of the cafeteria, and then straight outside onward to the park. Usually, whenever he had nothing else to do, he just sat on the plain grass and feel the wind. He arrived at his destination and did no hesitantly sat on a nearby bench. He looked around to see that it was obvious that nopony was in the area. He looked at the sky, watching the clouds moving aimlessly as he drifted off into slumber, dreaming of things...

SEVEN YEARS AGO

A four year old colt named Eter woke up in the night when he heard sounds of panic and worry coming from the living room. He got out of bed then slowly went to door, carefully opening it just by a slight to take a peak of what was going on. He looked to see his parents talking with worried look on their faces, not really an argument, but something else. He then heard them starting a conversation.

"I don't want anything to happen. What if they find us and kill us?" questioned by a mare with such concern.

"Just stay calm, Lucra, we can do this," replied by a stallion that sounded like he was trying to make her calm.

"I know, my love. It's just that I can't lose you, especially him. I don't want to go back. I want to stay here with you and our little child," she stated as she pointed out a picture on the wall. It showed an image of them being happy along a little foal being cradled in her hooves.

"We will be alive, Lucra. Remember that the three of us will overcome this together as family. I promise you, " the stallion said as he hugged her tightly.

Lucra returned it as well as she replied, "I hope you will keep that promise."

The colt did not understand of the situation, he was too young ever realize the reality. He went back to his bed, hoping that everything be alright.

THREE YEARS AFTERWARDS

THE FIRE INCIDENT

"We are trapped!" shouted the stallion.

"Come on, there should be an opening upstairs," replied by Lucra as the two immediately galloped to the second floor.

The fire was spreading too quickly that it had the walls being covered with it, including the windows. However, there was still one window left open, but it was not of what they would expected it to be.

"This window won't fit us through. I can't believe this is happening."

"Our little child, my love," Lucra pointed him out their crying foal who was being cradled in her hooves, "We may not survive anymore, but we can have our child to take the opportunity."

At first, he was shocked to hear her idea, but later realized that they had no other options left. They wanted their child to live. Many ponies died in many unnatural accidents. Their foal should not be one of them. He turned his gaze to his son and said,

"I know that this may not end well for all of us, Eter, but know that we love you and we would be always be there for you."

The foal gave out a sniff with a whispering reply, "Dad..."

"Be alive, son. Be alive for us."

The fire was getting stronger as some of the boards were breaking down. They must be done with it now.

"Mom?" the colt then turned his gaze to his mother.

"I promise you, my child, that you will get that life. I'm sorry if we won't see you grow up to be a great pony," she paused for a brief moment as tears were forming in her eyes, "Me and your father are worthy dying for. Your legacy starts here, my son."

At that, Lucra's starting to glow, covering Eter in a bluish aura as he was released from his mother's grip. He was then sent to window with a final look on his parents. He saw them smiling with tears and saying their final words,

"Goodbye, son," the two said in unison.

That was the last time he saw his parents and the last he heard from them as the aura around him disappeared, signifying him falling to the ground, only then to be grabbed by the rescue team. The last thing he saw before slumber taking him was his house immediately burned into ashes, leaving behind but a memory.

BACK TO THE PRESENT

He suddenly woke up as he heard loud noises like screaming. He turned around to see a huge smoke coming from the town. Curious of what was going on, he left his bag at the bench and proceeded directly to the town. As he reached his destination, he saw a smoke coming out from the school and students running away while panicking like there was a fire inside. Not wanting to know further of what could be the reason or if his friends were alright, he quickly transformed into his demonic form, ignoring others that were shocked by his doing. He then began galloping straight to the building.

He followed the trace of the smoke until he reached to the third. The smoke was overwhelming, he assumed that he's getting closed to find the source as he continued galloping down the hallway. He continued running until he reached the chemistry lab. As he went inside, there were massive flames on the sides, spilled chemical substances as the flames were starting to expand further. He summoned a few of his clones to help him in searching the students and evacuating them from the building.

"Help..."

He heard a voice, sounded so familiar. He forced himself running through the flames, letting the pain slide as his coat received burned marks. He ducked below to get a better view to see the one calling out. He saw his old friend, an earth pony with a yellow coat, a red mane with a pink ribbon strapped at the back. He knew that this pony was her. The one who had abandoned him and now the one who needed the help.

"Bloom! Can you hear me?" he shouted.

"*cough* p-pardner? I-i-is that *cough* you?" the earth pony replied as she began in coughing up blood.

"Oh buck, don't worry, Bloom, I'll get you out of here," Shard replied as he began levitating her and placed her at his back.

The colt turned around to see the others were out, so it looked it's only him and her left. He galloped through the hallway and avoiding every falling debris. As more debris falling, he barely had any time left to escape. As he to the stairs, it was blocked by the roaring flame. He noticed all of the rooms were fully on fire and the only thing left was a window. Knowing that it was his last option, he gathered all of his might, galloping straight to the window as he broke through the glass. Now on the edge of death, but not really a true death, he opened his wings, flapping them with force to activate his flying mode, but to no avail. Getting closer now to the bottom, his eyes glowed by unknown means as his wings began doing one big flap that made a...

BANG!

As his eyes returned to normal, he noticed he's hovering lightly. He landed, placing Apple Bloom at the ground gently as he looked around to see the students looking at him with suprised looks on their faces. Some of them were mumbling words about him. He gave out a groan as he shook his head then began flying out of the scene. He had been through a rough day, he hoped the event that had happenned today would just be a piece of memory to fade.

TO BE CONTINUED

A thought in mind: You are forgiven: Setting out ( End of Act 1 )

A thought in mind: You are forgiven: Setting out ( End of Act 1 )

TWO DAYS LATER AT CANTERLOT

12: 06 PM

Two days passed after the incident and yet Shard could not feel being alright as he sat on the terrace, hoping for the wind to give him the chance to clear his head. Saving her, the one who abandoned his love for a new, was it really worth it? This question whirled around his mind. He may left her as much as she left him, but his heart bore no hate that he wanted against her. Sighing, he wished that she would remember and maybe learn her mistakes.

As he gazed at the sky, he had been thinking also about his parents. Striving to success even facing his own flesh and blood to kill for the greater good. He had a thought if she and father were still alive since when he was still young, their bodies were never found from their burned home. The others said that they're dead, but he still refused to believe it. When he was still little, he thought his parents were gone for good, but as when he grew up into realizing the reality, he knew that it's not real because he somehow felt them in his heart that they're still living. He had an idea that could give him the chance to search for answers.

It was about moving out, going somewhere outside of Equestria to learn more magic, unravel rumors, and further increasing his stability. He might learn the whereabouts of his parents. He may face complicated odds, but they would not stop him from achieving his goals. He wanted to set out as time was on the essence. He stood up, leaving the terrace then proceeded to the throne room to have his request approved by Celestia. He trotted down the hallway, then onto the two big doors. Pushing them open, he saw her sitting on her throne along with Luna by her side. He slowly walked his way straight to front.

As he was in a few meters away, Celestia raised a hoof, signifying him to stop at his tracks. He did so without hesiatation.

"Is there a matter that you would like to discuss, Shard?"

"Nothing, Princess. I was hoping if you could grant my request."

"A request? What kind of request," she questioned.

"Yes, I want to venture to another land along with my partner," Shard explained.

Celestia raised an eyebrow and asked, "Oh? Why so?"

The colt was getting nervous at this point, but tried to keep calm as he took a deep breath before giving out his reply, "Because I felt like I need to search for more like unravel rumors, learning mystical glyphs, and the possibility of my parent's status."

"I see," Celestia said as she walked over placed a hoof at his shoulder, "You have grown stronger to be a hero for us. And you wish for a challenge in your life. Very well, you may leave and pursue your new adventure. I will ask my guards to set up a ship for you and your friend to sail."

"Thanks, Princess Celestia," he said with a smile.

"Always be a hero to us, Shard. Go now and tell Venang about your new adventure."

At that, the colt left the room as he went straight to the training grounds. At there, he saw Venang in the air practicing her usual routine. Her flame technique and aerial assault. She summoned a few fireballs, throwing at the training dummies. The result caused them to burn into ashes. She then concentrated fire spears and threw the next dummies. The spears passed through and disappeared immediately. After a brief moment, the targets were enlightened in great fire and then exploded into smithereens. There was a smirk on her face as she watched the flames dying out.

Shard was so frightened by her element, he gulped heavily, and hoped not to get in touch with those flames.

The colt shook his head, regaining his composure as he waved a hoof and called out,

"Hey."

She turned around and replied happily, "Oh, hi there, Shard, how are you?"

"Been good enough," he shrugged.

Venang then landed as she walked up to him, "Is there something you want to tell me?"

"Well...." he mumbled as he scratched the back of his neck before continuing, "Would you like to go with me somewhere interesting?"

The bat filly tilted her head in confusion,

"You mean like a date?" she asked.

"What?!" Shard replied as he felt his cheeks starting to blush slightly, "No, something better than just that."

"Oh, another adventure, eh?"

"Yes, but this time, outside of Equestria, " he declared.

This caused Venang to have her eyes grew wide. Like she had never thought of it before.

"I-I don't know," she stammered as she looked down, "I'm not sure if I'm ready to leave."

"Venang," Shard frowned as he placed a hoof at the side of her face, "We are strong companions. We encountered danger before and we can do it again. To further hone our skills, unravel mysteries, and to have great memory to ever have."

The bat filly looked up to him and asked, "Will it be worth it?"

"Of course, Venang. We are team, right?"

She nodded, "Yeah, a team."

"Maybe even a force to be reckon with," Shard joked proudly.

Venang giggled as she kissed him at his cheek, "Okay, let me say goodbye to my parents first."

At that, she began flying out until she's out of scene. Shard transformed into his demonic form as he flew to Ponyville to say goodbye to his friends, maybe even her. It wasn't easy to leave his friends behind that looked like for good, but he had to for the best. He had been thinking of talking to her for the last time. It may not be easy, but it could be worth the shot.

TWO HOURS LATER

Shard was on his way to Sweet Apple Acres. While on the way of walking, he felt his heart in amount of pain after saying goodbyes to his friends. Sweetie Belle did not take it lightly, but soon understand his decision, she hoped the he would return safe and sound. They even had their last kiss, this time at the lips before parting ways. Scootaloo was concerned, but not enough to be dramatic, yet she still cared for him. They did their last hoofbumps before he left with a word, 'Scooty'. The pegasus was still annoyed by that nickname, but soon just chuckled as she got used to it.

As he reached to the house, he questioned himself if it was worth in going back to this farm. Feeling of something to happen badly, should he turn back now while he can? No, he should not wasted this last opportunity. He may left her, but he would still remember. He went to the side and leaned on the wall, carefully not to get noticed by his hoofsteps. He slowly moved to the sideways to find her window. Once he found it, he saw Apple Bloom, doing her homework perhaps or maybe writing more love letters about his new coltfriend. As he continued looking at her, he noticed that she's about to look at her window. He immediately ducked down and held his hooves tight as he heard the window being opened.

"Hello, is anypony there?" she called out.

This was it. His chance in telling her his last. What if she had forgotten about him already? Would she still be the same? He couldn't get the answers until he would find it on his own. He sighed heavily as he replied by a whisper,

"I'm here..."

The earth pony looked down to see what suprised her.

"S-Shard..." she stammered, "Is that ya, pardner?"

"It's me, Bloom. Good to see you again," he replied weakly with a smile as he stood up.

"What are ya doing there? Ya should get inside," Apple Bloom said as she took a few steps back to let him in.

Shard did so without hesitation as he entered through the window. He felt the same smell of the room that he used to sleep with her. Favoritism in apples was the obvious scent. The two looked at each other face to face, both in sad expressions.

Apple Bloom broke the silence as she asked, "Ya still mad about me?"

"I was, but not anymore," he replied with a blank expression.

"Ah'm sorry, pardner. Ah never meant ta hurt ya. Ah was blinded by love," she said as she looked down in shame.

"That's fine, Bloom, I forgive you," he paused to get a moment of air before continuing, "I would never be mad at you forever."

"I still have feelings for you in my heart," he added as he pointed out to his chest.

"Listen, I came here to say goodbye," Shard stated, "I'm leaving Equestria and maybe for a long time or forever.

"WHAT?! But Ah said Ah'm sorry! Ah broke up already with mah coltfriend!" she cried.

"I know you are, but this is a situation that I must undertake. A new threat is about to consume this world and only I have the will to stop before it can ever harm anypony. I would protect my loved ones, even you," he stated.

"*sniff* Promise me that ya will be back or at least be okay?" she asked with tears running down her face.

"We may never know, but I promise to be in your heart as always," he reassured as he embraced her.

They remained in that for a few minutes. Like they were once a thing. A united couple. Once and always be.

ONE HOUR LATER

"Time to face the open waters" Shard said as he made his to the door.

"Wait," called out by Apple Bloom as she approached him and gave him two saddlebags.

"What's these for?" he asked.

"For food, silly. Ya might need it ta handle starvation," she replied with a smile.

"Thank you, Apple Bloom, for still caring for me after these years," he said happily.

"Yer welcome, pardner, Ah will always love ya," she replied as she gave a quick peck on his cheek.

After a brief moment, they said in unison, "So long, pardner."

At that, Shard exited the house and closed the door behind him. As he made his exit, he looked up to see a carriage with two royal guards approaching to his position. The carriage then landed as one of the guards said,

"Get in the carriage, Shard, we will escort you to the port."

"Hi, Shard! I reserved a space for you," Venang said as she waved a hoof at him.

He didn't bother to say anything else but giving out a chuckle instead as he went to the carriage, then they flew off up into the sky.

"Got some food for the trip, Venang," he said as he showed to her the saddlebags.

"Let me guess, it was her?" she asked with a smirk.

"You know it," he shrugged, "I have forgiven her now. All is better now."

"Indeed it is," she said as she wrapped a wing around Shard.

MEANWHILE

"Aaaarghhh, not enough," Phan Tom groaned as he conjured up another fire ball.

Phan Tom was at his room, practicing his signature spells and hoping to hone them into stronger version. Sadly, the attempts were but the same results. Still on the same level, not even close to his cousin's stability. His blood rushed through his veins as he conjured one evolved dark fire ball. He threw it to the target dummy, resulting an explosion as the dummy was in black immolation, but still not burned into ashes. The young draconequus growled in frustration as he could not be as strong as Shard.

He wondered of how to be as equal as him or at least have the advantage against him. Having enough strength would make him triumph against him in every single way. However, he knew that his cousin would always search for new abilities and even pinned him down in a matter of seconds. He sighed as he laid down on his bed, putting himself to rest for another day.

"This is it, eh?" Shard asked as he and Venang were now at the port, looking at the ship.

"Tell me about it. Just you and me on this," Venang replied as she was amazed by the beautiful vessel.

"We can do this. I know we can," he assured her confidently.

"Yeah, let's go."

The two then walked straight to the vessel, entering the deck and removing the plank as they began starting it to move. As Shard managed the steering wheel, Venang provided some air to the sails by flapping her wings at their direction until there was enough wind to push the ship forward.

Venang approached him and asked, "So, Shard, where do we go?"

"Hold on, let me check the map," he replied as he took map out from his personal saddle bag, "There is an island nearby which is called the 'Steep Marsh', there is a cave there that was said to be ancient. This could be a start."

"It is a start," she nodded, "How long is our destination to that island?"

"Should take a day. Rest enough for the big suprise," he said with a smile.

"Fair enough. I'm glad that we'll take this adventure together," she said as she rubbed her muzzle at his.

Shard returned it as well, "You know it. This is our story,"

The two were now in the beginning of a new journey. New enemies, challenges, and secrets awaited them in the darkness. They will endure the hardships of being the duo. They will succeed because they're companions, the paladins. This is the beginning of their life.

THE END OF ACT 1

Author's Note

This ends Act 1 of the story.

Act 2 will be coming soon or shortly.

The next act will include some extra and bonus chapters.

THANKS FOR READING

{ Act 2 Beginning } Hard touch: The stage of an Exalted

THE NEXT MORNING

"Are we there yet?" Venang asked.

"We're almost there, just a few minutes more," Shard replied.

The two were in a few inches away left from the island. What awaited them in the unknown surely made them prepared for anything by any means necessary. The undeniable heat of the sun beamed down at them, making Shard's eyes widened in maintaining focus like they were about to pop out from their eye sockets. For Venang, she just covered her eyes with her wings as she hated much of the light pointing at her face, groaned in frustration of it like most of the Thestrals. The colt just chuckled at her as he continued looking straight.

As soon as they reached the mainland, they stopped the ship as Shard summoned ethereal chains around it to keep it immobile. They jumped down and briefly gazed at the new view as they thought it would be nice. Unfortunately, it was assumed the worst as the forest looked like it was being used as a battlefield as some of the trees were cut down, there were tracks of foot prints at the sand at every direction. There was a tattered sign in front of them, they moved a little closer to read it. It said,

DANGER AHEAD... THEY DO NOT SPEAK, BUT THEY DO NOT SLEEP

The two shuddered in fear, hoping those 'creatures' would show mercy.

"I've got a bad feeling about this place," Venang said.

"I hear ya, we might step into a trap," Shard replied, "It's best that we stay close together,"

The bat filly nodded as they went straight inside to the forest. They made sure not to make much of a sound to avoid getting unwanted attention from any creatures that lurked in the shadows. As they continued walking, they heard sounds of growling. They stopped at their tracks, looking at different directions. They heard movement getting closer to them. They prepared their magic as the sound of the steps were getting louder as the ground was trembling beneath them.

After a brief moment, the creatures revealed themselves from the trees and bushes. Shard noticed their strange markings on their chest. They were bipedal walkers and made out of stones. They had bluish glowing eyes and ancient armor plates at their chests. They were looking at them unwillingly as the duo were waiting for them to let them attack first or them.

"These are strange beings," Venang asked.

"No kidding," Shard agreed, "Ancestral Golems of somesort.

At that, the duo initiated first the attack, taking them by suprise. Venang used her flame spell to cover her wings with it before dashing through them with fast slices. They were lit in flames before being exploded, leaving pieces of small rocks while their heads were still intact. As more arrived, she flew into the sky, dodging their beams that they were emanating from their eyes, including avoiding their large rocks. She then summoned a flame shield around her, protecting herself from incoming while she was channeling something big. She immolated herself as she dispel her shield before diving down at them.

Projectiles were thrown at her, but she managed to break them while continuing her diving. There were fireballs swirling around her as she got closer now to the ground. When collided, a flammable gust covered them in a brief moment before it subsided. The result had her knocked out while her targets were turned into little dark pieces of burned pebbles.

For Shard, he charged forward at them, dodging their attacks as he began giving out massive blows one by one at them, furiously. They were moved back by little, but he did not just stopped at there. He summoned a few of his dark images of himself to assist him in beating them physically. Their attacks were strong enough to have thm pinned down and unable to fight longer. The colt then cast a gust of frost at them, trapping them helplessly while commanding his clones to turn into one giant dark mist. The mist then fused with the gust, changing its colors into gray color.

Shard then raised his forehooves together before slamming them at the ground, resulting the spell to explode and leaving a massive mist with little snow particles. The mist subsided to reveal the golems had their stoned body parts disassembled. He turned around as he ran to Venang's side who was regaining consciousness. He grabbed her and asked,

"Are you okay?"

"Ugh... My head hurts," she said as she touched her head carefully.

"Don't worry," he stated as he began helping her stood up to her hooves, "We got most of them, but I think we should keep moving and not wait for their back up."

At that, they continued venturing forward.

AN HOUR LATER

While they continued walking through the forest, they looked at their sides and noticed some bushes and trees had some dried blood marks, sharp weapons were lying at ground, and fresh boned corpses, signifying an event must had took place long ago. They stumbled upon a cave which had skulls scattered around the entrance and the same markings from the golems that they fought. They looked at each other for a moment, nodding in agreement as they entered into the darkness.

Upon entering, they looked to see more old skeletons and dried bloods at the ground. The markings from the golems appeared at every side walls. They also noticed lots of jewelries scattered around. As they continued downward to the stairs, they noticed a marking on the floor below, it was painted blood and the symbol looked like for ritual purposes. What kind of ritual could the golems were making? As they stepped on it, the torches were lit to blue color and the ground was shaking imminently.

Soon after, stones scattered across the ritual area were assembled together in front of them, revealing to them a giant golem with advanced armor plating. The duo had a moment to say a word under their breath in unison,

"Buck..."

MEANWHILE

Phan Tom was at the dining hall, eating his meal alone while also reading an ancient book. He was reading a page about transformation levels that a draconequus could ever use. Firstly, once he/she underwent into the first stage, he/she experienced loss of emotions and it would be replaced by anger, close to be a rebel. The second stage turned the creature into more demonic version. An increased power up to his/her abilities, darkened his/her appearance, and loss of control for an unknown period of time. It said that they should use it with caution if not practiced enough to maintain satbility. Lastly, the third stage showed to be most difficult one to handle.

At Stage three, it transformed a draconequus into an unstoppable titan. His/her appearance changed completely, abilities became advanced beyond their limits, new spells added, though they would remember when they turned back to normal, and they became pure feral beasts. Phan Tom shivered at the thought of this last stage. He kept searching through the pages on alternate ways to control such metamorphosis. First suggestion was undergoing a ritual that would require a sacrifice of another. Unfortunately, the ritual he had been through was nothing like that since it only made him deathless. The second one was to have a master of control, though it would take like months or years to overcome the emotion of self-loathing.

His cousin's form was far unique than the others. The power and spirit of an archon fused with his form, making his transformation to be used at free will without suffering anymore loss of emotions. He wondered of what current stage was his cousin now. Possibly at level two and still had the strength to manage his heart. Phan Tom feared that Shard may enter the last stage soon. Would he still be the same relative that he knew when they were young? Would he give mercy for the last?

"Thinking about him, eh?" said by a voice behind him.

"Oh," he replied and turned to his side to see his Master standing at the front door, "Master, I was doing some reading about transformation levels."

"I understand. Your cousin is on the lead anyway. I believe now that he is close to the last level."

This made Phan Tom gulped in suprise and fear as it could be a nightmare to him if that would happen.

"I have news to tell you, young prodigal, I was informed by our best spies that he and his companion are now on a mission," Master stated.

"What mission," Phan Tom asked

"To find mysteries about our race, searching more power, and getting real challenges," Master explained.

"This cannot be," Phan Tom gaped

"They are showing to us that they are a force to ever face against. It will take them time, but will soon turn them into undeniably killing monstrosities. For now, I have a task for you."

"What is your will, Master?" he asked.

"There is an island called 'Cross Canyon'. No population, but reports said that golems guarding the area. I need you to take lead of a strike force and secure that island to turn it as another colony for future uses," Master declared.

"Your command, Master," Phan Tom nodded, "Will be carry out."

"Good, now get ready."

ONE HOUR LATER

Shard and Venang suffered much bruises as they continued battling the big golem. They were in harsh pain because they had to overuse the limits of their skills in competing the giant. Its attacks were so strong, it sent them flying to the wall like doing darts. Venang conjured lots of fiery spears, throwing them at the golem in which caused it to fall down to the ground helpless, though she suffered fatigue in the process, but still able to fight. Shard transformed into his archon form, summoning a large number of his clones, guiding them to use extra force. He summoned a frost sphere from his hoof, along with his images who were doing the same. They followed him in charging against the golem, resulting loud bangs, a bright light, and a never ending production of smoke.

As the smoke subsided and the light died down, the result caused the golem to flinch, but only to retaliate by conjuring up lots of boulders. The duo dodged every single one of them, but could not continued further as the boulders were being thrown faster than they could ever anticipated. They tried to attack the golem, but one of them was hit forcefully by one of the massive rocks. Venang managed to avoid it, but Shard did not get lucky as he wanted to be.

Shard was about to experience another blow as he sensed another one coming right at him. He closed his eyes and waited for it to hit him. There was a loud bang, however, he felt only soft touch at his chest. He opened his eyes, only to be shocked by what he saw. Venang was embracing him tightly, laying on top of him unconscious as blood came out from her mouth. Her wings were wrapped around his back, softening his landing spot. Shard's eyes became wide as he could not believe of this. This was like from three years back. A loved one who sacrifice to let him live.

No, he could not accept this anymore. Seeing the ones he loved dying for him made him feel more guilty than being an innocent. He had enough of this bit, furious now of losing. The suffering of losses were undeniable for him. He slowly removed her hold then stood up into fours as he began growling deeply. The ground was shaking with force causing the golem to almost lose its balance. The colt's eyes were glowing bright white as he felt himself transforming again into the path of redemption for salvation.

His coat was darkened a little, his mane and tail's color received another color which was black, two sharp upper teeth appeared, and a white immolation appeared around him like a shield. The cutie mark didn't changed, still a diamond with swirling black vines. Voices of the dead were whispered around him as gave a cold, deadly, brutal glare to his enemy. He gritted his teeth with anger as he began charging at the golem at high speed. Headbutting its chest that pushed the golem back furtherly. The stone walker retaliated by a punch right in front of his face, but received a loss of its arm instead.

"Pathetic..." Shard said with a snarl.

At that, he punched it at its head, sending it pushed back and to be hit by a wall. Stones were falling from its body parts, signifying that it was almost close to defeat. The colt summoned a large number of clones that were in dark versions than before. Some of them directly engaged at it, providing decent amount of dark physical damage while the others were charging at it with improved spheres of frost. The combination had a massive effect on the golem, giving Shard a decent time to conjure his most destructive spell. He summoned a sphere that had a gust of cold air emanating from it like the blizzard winter. He charged with a roar of such ferocity as he collided it onto the golem's chest, initiating a breakdown.

The concentration was relatively at ease as he continued piercing it deeper until he heard a crack from one of the golem's arms. Some stones were ripping out while some were completely disassembled. As he gave one final push, a bright light appeared imminently along with an explosion that gave out a huge bang, resulting a massive smoke. After a brief period, the smoke cleared and the light died down, revealing the stone walker that now turned into ruins of nothingness. He turned back to his original form, feeling a little woozy, but stable as always in control. He looked at the remains to see a stone that had a strange words written on it. It could be of use for them, so he picked it up and trotted to Venang's side, checking her heart if it was still responding.

Shard gave out a sigh in relief after hearing a few heartbeats, knowing that she was still breathing. He picked her up and placed her at his back before leaving the cave with the mysterious stone at his side.

THREE HOURS LATER

Shard looked at view of the sunset in front of him, indeed beautiful as it always would be. Venang was able to wake and regained her consciousness, but needed time to rest, so she stayed at the bedroom for the time being. He did not bother to check anymore clues from the island, so he decided to get back to the ship and tailed it right out. He put the ship on hold by summoning an ethereal chains at the ship's sides.After a few minutes as night starting to happen, he went inside, down the hallway, then onto the bedroom. Opening the door, he checked at the bed to see if she was doing okay. As he slightly touched her forehead, she turned her around and looked at him with a weak smile and eyes tired.

"Feeling good, Venang?" Shard asked.

"Good as long as you're still here," she replied with a soft chuckle.

The colt rolled his eyes as he laid down at the bed next to her, letting her sore wing wrapped around him as he levitated a blanket to cover them for the cold wind. It was a hectic start for them. Painful it was, but at the very least, it was finally over for them to rest for the night.

TO BE CONTINUED

An encounter with a long lost follower...

THE NEXT DAY

While planning to know to where they should go next, Shard and Venang examined the stone that they recovered from the Steep Marsh. The words that were written in the stone were too complicated and not understandable to them. The words were possibly be draconequus language and it might be holding either clues about it, a brief statement of the race's history, or maybe a power that the two or one of them to absorb.

"What could these words mean?" Venang asked.

"No clue, these words could mean something historical," Shard guessed.

"I hate history," Venang frowned.

"I know, but it might be it. How about we punch it?" he suggested.

"What? I'm not letting my hoof get broken by a hard rock," she said.

"Just a minor punch will do, okay?" he pleaded.

The filly gave out a sigh before giving out her answer.

"Alright, let's do it,"

They punched the stone, causing a glowing light emanating from it unexpectedly. There was a loud bang as they were pushed back against the wall by force. They noticed the stone, starting to hover as it released some sort of mist around it. Not seeing that it would be friendly, the duo got up to their hooves, preparing to defend themselves as they readied their abilities.

"At ease, young ones. I have no intentions to battle," it said.

"Did it just talk?" Venang asked.

"Really strange, but we should listen to it," Shard declared.

"Okay," she nodded.

"I wish only to speak with you, Shard Vine, son of Lucra," it stated.

"Okay, what do you want to say to me, cause I will tell my partner here to turn you into carbon dioxide if you will try to test our patience," Shard declared.

"I will.." it said it began explaining.

"Firstly, in introductions, I am known as one of your mother's followers. I was exiled from the tribe went to that island to seek refuge, then got captured and turned into one of them. The reason why I am here to speak with you is because I sensed you, young pony. Been so long now I sensed a powerful being in this world. I understood that you having an adventure with your friend here, correct?"

"Yes,"

"I believed that you two wished to learn more power and secrets from our tribe. As I completely understand your intentions to defeat your own kin to protect your beloved ones, I must give you two for the very least, a piece of direction that you two can search for more strength," it stated.

"Okay, say it," Venang nodded.

"On the northeast of your position, there is a large island called 'Shimmering Dawn'. It is where the sun shines on its nature, grassy plain areas to ever feel, and the water there when the sun shines down on it, it shimmers like sparkles. Quite a beautiful place to live a normal life there, would you agree?"

Shard and Venang looked at each for moment.

"What do you think, Venang?" Shard asked.

"Well, if the mysterious mist said is true about the place being beautiful and sparkling waters, I would love to go there," Venang said with a smile.

"If it makes you happy, then I'm happy too," Shard replied happily.

They turned their gaze back to the mist.

"Alright, we'll take a look at this island you mentioned," he said.

"I appreciate your response, young one. In the island, there is an artifact there that I believe can be of use for you and your companion for your future endeavors. It is located in a shrine created by our ancestors from the past centuries. You two will need to search deeper in finding it for the area is large along with its forest. Possibly can face trouble, but I have full confidence that you two will handle anything," it added.

"Thank you, mysterious mist," Venang grinned.

"Much obliged, young thestral. Now, I must go to the land of spirits to be with the council once more," it said as it was starting to fade away.

"Wait!" Shard shouted, "I just have one question to ask!"

The mist stopped subsiding.

"Yes, what is the information your heart seeks?"

"Is my mom still alive? Since you are her follower, I would assume that you know her current status," he asked.

...

"I regret having to tell you this, but I have no answers to where she might be. She lost connection to us ever since you were born," it explained.

The colt looked down in disappointment, growling weakly.

"I suggest you continue your search about her whereabouts. Farewell, children!" it bellowed as it faded to be no longer seen.

Venang looked at Shard, seeing his eyes glowing light blue and his teeth changed into pointy like pencils. He must be so furious of not getting the answer he needed to find her mother. He must be missing her so much as flames were starting to appear from his eyes. The filly placed her hoof at his shoulder, causing him to slowly turned his gaze to her. She began speaking,

"Shard, we will find your mother. Maybe in the island, it could contain any clues about her. I'm right behind you. Promise, " she said.

Shard's eyes returned to normal as so as his teeth. He sighed heavily and replied.

"I hope so, and thanks for comforting me," he replied, feeling a little better.

"Your welcome," Venang smiled as she kissed him on the cheek.

After a while for a short rest, they looked up in the sky, seeing it was still daylight, they decided to begin their next move.

"I think it's time we set sail on the beautiful island, eh?" he asked.

"Agree, let's go," she nodded.

The two began getting the ship running again, setting sail onto northeast to Shimmering Dawn. Facing more enemies and suprises. They were in full determination to attain more power and search the whereabouts of Lucra. If there were ever any clues in the island, Shard will not hesitate in searching for them to find his beloved parent.

SOMEWHERE IN AN UNKNOWN LOCATION

A hooded mare wandering in a plain area, looking at an unknown shrine that had a strange symbol on it. She noticed something approaching her, so she immediately turned around to see a foggy mist.

"Did you tell him?" she asked.

"Yes, I gave him and his friend the location of this island, but not yours, Wretched Fiend," it replied

"Very good. Now, be with the council, minion," she declared as she cast a portal on the mist, sending inside it quickly.

The hooded mare sighed deeply, looking at the shrine's logo while saying to herself,

"Eter, I hope you've improved lately. I believe in your power to change our future," she again sighed in hoping of what she said would be true.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

Hey, guys! Sorry for the delay of the chapter, I was busy with things in life and lost my inspiration. But now, I got the motivation again to write! :pinkiehappy: I will continue to write no matter what.

Next chapter in progress...

The Fiend: The Duo Lurkers Within

The duo finally reached Shimmering Dawn as they were close now to the shore. After disembarking from the ship, they looked around to feel the atmosphere. There were no signs of any weapons, blood, or even dead bodies. Safe to say, the island was not harmed by anypony and that they were likely the first to set hoof. They ventured forward as they looked at the nature so exotic and amazing. The sun shined brightly at the ground, almost as if the light would reflect at them, in which Venang wished to not expect something like that.

After an hour of endlessly walking in the jungle, the two decided to take a break from the exhaustion. They went to find a good spot to rest their hooves, their heads, and to get cover from the sunlight. After founding one, they sat down at the plain grass as they leaned at a tree, while letting the cold air breeze upon them. Looking up at the sky, seeing clouds moving slowly and the sound of birds chirping.

"This place is so wonderful, eh?" he asked.

"Totally, like we're in paradise," she replied.

The duo shared a short laugh as the light of the sunlight still shined brightly.

"How far are we from the shrine?" she asked.

"Possibly still far from our current location," he replied, "This island is so big like a country."

"How about we find a shortcut ?"

"What kind of shortcut?" he asked.

"There might be rivers somewhere in the area that we can use as fast transportation to any certain areas. We could fine one that may lead us to the shrine at ease," she explained.

"Alright, we'll search one later. How about we eat snacks to pass the time?" he asked.

"Sure thing," she nodded as she brought out food from her saddle bag.

MEANWHILE

Phan Tom struck down a powerful magic blast at the golem, completely disintegrating it to dust. There were still more to handle, though he was exhausted from using too much of his power against the previous ones. Some of his comrades died from the assault because they were immediately annihilated by the golems. Seeing more coming and some his squad retreating, he decided to go to his next phase if he wished to claim the land for Master.

"I regret nothing!" he yelled as his eyes started to glow.

A black immolation appeared around him as he began to transform. Teeth sharpening, wings emerging into an eagle's, and an aura emanating below him as he roared while charging at full speed. He slashed his way through the golems, one by one of them being cut into half as he continued dashing to everyone of them. He then came to a stop as he began to fly to unleashed something deadly. His eyes were flaming with pure anger as he a concentrated inferno sphere from his forehooves. After a brief moment, he threw it at the sky, causing it to turn like a spiral orb as it released dark fire balls to the ground.

The golems that were hit directly by the attacks were turned into dust while some were completely turned into permanent statues. Some that were trying to to escape were unlucky as they got hit and turned into stiff stones like monuments.

He descended down to the ground, looking at his surviving comrades that were shocked and amazed by his raw power.

"You have such power."

"You could defeat anything."

"Maybe, but one. I believe you all know what I mean," he said.

The soldiers looked at each other for a brief moment before looking back, nodding in understanding.

"Good, now some of must return to our fortress and report to our Master about the success of the raid so he can bring the workers to begin planning," he commanded.

"Yes, young prodigal," they replied with a salute as they returned to their ships.

Phan Tom looked at the sky, sighing as he hoped his cousin was doing well,

"I hope you are out there somewhere, Eter. I wish you luck for our battle soon."

"Did you hear something?" he asked as he heard a growl.

"Yeah, it sounded like it's over there," she pointed out at the direction.

"Let's go check it," he declared.

The two got up and went to the direction where the sound of growling was heard. As they were getting closer, the sound was also getting louder. As they moved aside the bushes in front of them, it revealed to be a wolf. However, it looked like a bluish familiar, a spectral like it was summoned by a mere necromancer. The spiritual wolf looked at the duo with blue glowing eyes continuously and it didn't look like it was prepared to attack.

When the two made one step forward, the wolf made a fierce growl, but they continued moving one step at a time. As they were now close to it, the spectral being began running away. Without hesitation, Shard and Venang chased after it with full speed. In the jungle, running and jumping like they were in an obstacle course as they jumped from branches and keeping up the pursuit. The chase sent them into a nearby river where the wolf stop its tracks near the water, having the duo completely appeared in time. As they were gonna ready their abilities, the wolf vanished into floating ashes. They noticed the it pointing it at the right side of the river, possibly leading them to a new direction.

"So it was just leading to us to a new path?" she asked.

"I guess so. You're right about the rivers," he replied.

"I hope this will lead us to the shrine,"

"Only one way to find out.."

The colt conjured an ice surfboard, placing it at the water. He sat down at it and patted a space for her to join the ride of her life.

"Ready?" he smirked.

The filly giggled as she sat down at the spot.

"Ready," she smiled.

"Here we go!" he shouted as he gave the board a boost.

The surfboard accelerated at high speed, going up and then going down the stream. It was a great experience for them as they moved very fast while holding each other tightly. They went through zigzag lines, then another upward and downward slides. They were now close to the end as they reached to a waterfall, feeling the excitement as they were now closer and closer.

"YEAHHHHHHH!" they yelled as they went down the waterfall.

They got submerged by the impact, but got back up to the surface short after. They jumped to the dried grass, feeling soaked by the cooling water, but they laughed as it was the best thing that they had ever done. After a while in drying up their coat, they looked at what's in front of them. It was the shrine that the mist talked about. It had a strange symbol on its roof, possibly a mark from one of the ancestors. They walked in front to see a vase.

"Really, just a decoration," he frowned.

"Maybe there's something inside," she guessed as she took it from the table and looked inside of it.

"What do you see?" he asked.

"Nothing, just empty," she answered.

"Well, how about we smash it?"

"What? Are you serious?"

"There could be magic if we let it out," he explained.

"It's just a piece of ornament, Shard," she frowned.

"We have no choice, it might be the only way to get its power," he declared.

"Alright," she sighed, but nodded, "I'll do it."

The thestral threw it to the floor, completely shattered in pieces.

What they next saw was a trail of air, immediately surrounding them as it hummed an echo. The voice was probably from a dead living being. After a brief moment, the trail disappeared, leaving the duo confused.

"So you're here," said by a female voice.

The duo flinched by the voice. They looked around to see nopony there, until they looked in front of them a dark mist forming. The duo prepared their abilities, completely unaware the changed of appearance of their spells. They continued staring at the mist, seeing it subsided to reveal a hooded mare. They didn't catch most of her exposed body, but they saw her hooves in a dark green color. They were able to notice her eyes, teal color.

This was a new enemy to the duo, but for Shard, he felt like he was frozen. Those eyes that he saw, they were just like his mother's. The hooves' color, same as his'. Could it be her that he had been looking for? No, it must an impostor or possibly the pony responsible for the destruction of his home. He shook his head for a moment, gaining back his focus on the mare.

"Who are you?" Shard called out to her with a glare.

"Why should I tell you?" the hooded mare snarled, "It's none of your business, little foal."

"Don't play dumb, bucker!" Venang snorted as her flame abilities lightened up.

"Oh, such language you said there," the hooded mare snarled.

"You better tell us or else we'll buck your plot to Tartarus!" Shard shouted.

The hooded mare gave out a huff as she took a deep breath before giving out her answer.

"If you wish to know the reason, you'll have to get it," the hooded mare declared as she readied two dark orbs.

"So be it, motherbucker" the duo whispered in unison as they charged at the mare.

The battle was tense as Shard and Venang attacked the mare with brute force. The mare hit them with her dark magic, but they somehow ignored the pain and just continued on with their attacks at ease, much to her suprise by their endurance and strength. Venang conjured a flame sword, first time to ever made one, but she didn't questioned herself on how or even how did she learned it. She swiftly dashed forward to the target, releasing a long flammable slash. The mare was able to dodge in time, but did not expect something from behind. She saw Shard conjured a frost spear, throwing it at her location. However, the hooded mare barely dodged it in time to move back to gain distance.

"You will feel our power!" Shard roared.

"We will never stop!" Venang shouted.

The hooded mare saw of what could be her nightmare. She saw the thestral in a flammable immolation with eyes glowing bright green fire. She concentrated from her hoof a fire sphere, this time taking in shape of a star. For the earth pony, she looked to see him transforming, having his coat changed into gray, mane turned into sky blue and black, and eyes glowing enlightened blue. He conjured a frost orb, enhanced with dark magic as it had gray swirling trace of magic.

The duo charged at her with such ferocity and valor. Their spells hit her shield, but it began to crack immediately without warning.

"Darn it, this shield won't last longer," she thought to herself as the shield started to break.

"You've grown stronger, Eter, very good," she said to herself as she could only look now a blinding light appearing in front of her.

BANG!

As the bright light died out, it revealed the area damaged widespread like a whole part of the island got wrecked. The shrine was destroyed, all the remains were in rubble. Shard and Venang remained their standing, showing no signs of bruises and looking quite aggressive as the look on their faces were in an angry state. They noticed the hooded mare, whose cloak had some of its cloth teared and feeling in such pain stood up, looking at them dumbfounded.

"Impressive, you two became more powerful in just a short time," she admitted, "I've never seen ponies like you two possess such power."

"The reason why I came here was because I was waiting for you two, especially you, earth pony," she said she pointed at Shard.

The duo just stood there, glaring at her fiercely. Venang snarled while Shard growled.

"Well, I must be on my way for my next plan, farewell, kids!" she bellowed as she surrounded herself in a dark mist as she made her exit.

They looked at the mist, disappearing from their sight before looking at each other for a moment.

"I wonder who she is," Venang asked.

"Beats me, but she looks familiar," Shard replied.

"How so?"

"Not sure, but I'll just forget it. Now, let's get back to the ship to plan our next destination," he declared.

"Right beside you," she nodded as she went close to his side, wrapping a wing around him.

The two departed from the island, sure was one heck of an experience to ever had.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

Next chapter in progress...

Best couples-companions

TWO HOURS LATER IN THE EVENING

The duo set course to an island called Cross Canyon. While waiting, they were testing out their new abilities to get to know them better since they didn't have any memory of every creating those. Shard conjured a frost spear while Venang summoned a flame sword, both looking at their weapons respectively. Venang attacked the dummy by a crescent slash, instantly turning it into ashes. It also had a delayed trace of green flame following the tip of the blade after. Shard ( In his metamorphosis ) attacked through his target with a spear through a quick dash, resulting the dummy sliced in half with marks of frost lines.

"We got some cool powers, eh?" she smiled.

"Yeah, but I like more of your sword, though," he chuckled as he revert back to his original form.

"Really?" she snorted, "You got a cool spear and now you want a sword like me?"

"Well, I can dream of it," he shrugged.

The duo shared a short laugh.

"Well, just make one."

"What kind?" he asked.

"Anything, as long it suits you," she grinned.

"Okay, let me see.."

Shard concentrated his hooves, creating a frost orb as it began to release swirling traces of frost. He focused further as he sensed the orb taking shape. After a moment, it turned into a frost sword that looked like a kitchen's knife.

"Seriously, this kind of form?" he frowned as he looked at its appearance.

"At least its longer than an ordinary kitchen knife," she pointed.

"Eh, I guess you're right," he nodded.

"Let's test it out" she declared as she conjured her fire blade.

"What?" he looked at her.

"Don't worry, just a few attacks," she said.

"Can you handle it?"

"Yeah, I'm sure its not that overpowered," she replied as she went into her defensive stance.

"Alright then, here goes!" he shouted as he charged at her.

A FEW SECONDS LATER

As every attacks he made, Venang felt pressured. As she blocked one attack, she noticed that she was being pushed backward even he was staying still in his position when attacking. She also had a little issue when blocking his attacks, they were so strong as she cringed like he almost pointed his blade directly at her face. As she was about to ask to stop, she saw him exhausted and laying down at the floor to get air.

"I think that's enough for tonight," he sighed.

"Yeah, let's go to bed," she nodded

The duo went inside, straight to the bedroom, and slept while embracing one another for their relaxing slumber.

MEANWHILE

Phan Tom entered the dining hall, greeted by his fellow kin and his master.

"Greetings," they bowed.

"I was told that you succeeded from your assignment," Master said.

"Yes," Phan Tom nodded nodded, "It is now on our control."

"Yes, good work," Master remarked.

"Today, there is something I would like to discuss with you,"

"What is it?" he asked.

"A recon team that I had sent a few days ago arrived back just a few minutes ago. They reported to me about the two were at Shimmering Dawn and they consumed another power created by the Wretched Fiend herself. They reported that the children were now able to use advanced abilities instantly without even thinking or training."

"They are getting stronger," Phan Tom admitted.

"Which is why I am tasking you to oversee their abilities. Find them, but do not assault them. Just observe their combat expertise and return with detailed opinions," Master commanded.

"I will, but what if they would attack one of our territories?" Phan Tom asked.

"Let them be, for it will waste their time in liberating each islands while we build a battalion," Master declared.

Without a reply, Phantom exited the venue and proceeded to locate the duo.

THE NEXT DAY

The duo landed ashore in their destination as they disembarked from their ship. They felt the ground very steep as the air was plain as blank. They ventured forward, ready for whatever awaited them at the area. As they walked for an hour, they sensed something strange. They felt the jungle's atmosphere feeling adrift as if there was some kind of happening before they arrived. Further walking straight to a river, they noticed a bridge that was almost gonna loose its hold.

Looking around, Shard picked up a rock and threw it at the bridge, in which an added weight to it caused the ropes to snap as the bridge fell down to the water. Venang flew over to the other side while Shard jumped high to reach to the opposite side. As they moved forward, they sensed a sound like a whistle and rustling of leaves. They looked around to see nopony there, but they kept hearing the noise. The duo ran away as fast as they could before something appeared in front of them, forcing them to stop.

"So it is you, son of the Wretched Fiend."

Shard and Venang looked at the creature. It looked like half griffon, half pony, and half bull. It's eyes were glowing bright yellow.

"Who are you?" Shard asked as he conjured his sword.

"One of your kin, little colt. Hybrids if you want a better term," it replied as its gaze towards him did not break.

"What do you want?" Venang demanded she summoned her own sword.

"The answer is easy, I eliminate intruders who would interfere our colony build in this island. Your mother is a mere traitor to us, colt, and that makes you a traitor as well," it snorted.

"I really dislike your appearance and your words. Me and Venang will kill you and stop whatever you guys are doing in this island," Shard glared.

"Such courage and determination," it smirked, "No matter, even if you liberate this island, you will still be in combat against us in endless number."

"If you insist in securing this island, good luck," it whispered as it charged at them with high speed.

The duo blocked its claws, but they were like gonna lose balance. Struggling hard in pushing it back, Shard transformed into his archon s while Venang covered herself in a flame cloak. The combined strength was enough to counter the push enough for them to kick the hybrid, forcing it back while in mid air, allowing the duo to dash straight to attack their targets. As every slash of attacks they made, they continued pressuring the hybrid until it finally loss its will to fight.

As they looked down at the hybrid, it began to cough up blood as its signal of death.

"He-he, you two defeated me at such a short time without patience," it wheezed.

"You are in our way," the duo growled in unison as they pierced its chest, killing him without remorse.

After a quick battle, the duo continued moving forward until they reached the exit of the jungle. As they reached to it, they saw cargo transports carrying like materials for crafting. They also saw many different hybrids exiting from their boats as they carried heavy boxes until they noticed the two. Shard and Venang, still in their forms prepared their swords and respective elemental abilities.

"That is him, the child of Lucra!" one pony hybrid shouted.

"He and his companion.. They are interfering the plans of our Master!" another pony hybrid gasped.

"Kill them!" a snake-griffon hybrid yelled.

Seeing their enemies charging in for the kill, Shard and Venang smirked as they rushed into them, settling the battle for the island. Venang flew up just by a hover as she lightened up her blade before dashing straight forward, slashing at them. The result of her attack gave the enemies large wounds in their body, killing them instantly as fire seeped through it. She then created a swirling tornado of fire from her blade by spinning it up high as she felt the flames swirling around her. After a brief moment, she sent the tornado into her targets, trapping many as they were engulfed in green flame. She then stopped it, seeing piles of bones of ashes falling to the ground. She grinned with delight as she thought to herself as an exceptional lethal fire caster.

Shard summoned a few clones as he commanded them to attack the hybrids for him to concentrate a somewhat special ability for his blade. A rune appeared below him as dark magic lines were emanating from his blade. His frost sword was starting to have swirling traces of dark frost, finally letting him strike the ground with a roar.

"Dark Ice Impalement!" Shard shouted it as the name of his new ability.

The ability was just nearly the same as from his previous: Glacial Fissure. The only differences were the shock wave was in gray-black color, sharp ice spikes immediately appeared as the wave increase its length further, and finally, as it reached its ending point, it expanded into a large circle as many ice shards appeared around the circles sides. Another strange but unique effect was the the circular ground turned into black. His new found ability killed the hybrids in a successful and brutal way.

Venang was suprised by his new technique as she looked at the line with the spikes, they were glowing with a dark color. Seeing their enemies killed and the ships retreating, the duo sighed in relief as they cleared the island.

"We did it!" Shard ( Now reverted back into his original form ) his declared.

"Yeah! That will make those bucktards fear of our no remorse policy!" she screamed.

The colt looked at the thestral with a suprised look.

"He-he-he," she blushed, "Too much?"

"Nah, it's cool!" he chuckled.

The filly giggled as she embraced him with love and happiness. The two gazed at the sunset for a moment, seeing it so beautiful as the perfect time to do something special. They looked at each other as Venang blinked with glimmering eyes, getting their faces closer until...

They kissed lips.

Unfortunately by an loud sound, the kiss was only for a short time as they broke the hug and looked at what's in front of them. They were shocked to see their ship in front of them in an instant with a rope for them to get up to the deck. They heard a clapping from behind, so they turned around to see none other Phan Tom smiling at them.

"You two are impressive," Phan Tom beamed.

"Really, you saw us battling?" Shard asked.

"And you were hiding and did not even bother to help your own kin?" she gaped.

"Well, I am only here to observe your experiences and I have to say, you two are quite impressive and deadly," Phan Tom admitted.

"You're gonna tell your Master about our progress?" Shard questioned.

"OUR master, Shard, best remember that," Phan Tom corrected, "And sadly yes, I will report it to him."

"It's alright, we don't mind about it, right Shard?" Venang smiled.

"Yeah, go ahead," Shard nodded.

"Thank you and farewell," Phan Tom said as he flew up to the sky until he could no longer be seen.

Seeing now the sun out of the picture and the moon taking place, the duo went back to their ship to rest for another great experience.

While on the ship, inside the bedroom,

"This day was awesome," Venang beamed.

"I know, the best," Shard nodded, "Good night, Venang,"

"Good night, Shard" she smiled as she kissed him at the cheek before nuzzling him.

The duo slept as they needed a time of rest before setting out next to the unknown.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

School begins tomorrow, gonna do more when in weekends and dismissal.

Revealing... ( Part 2 )

The colt was indeed shocked by looking at her as he noticed that he inherited some of her parts in appearance. He could not believe that it was her after fours years to fend for himself. His search was over as the answer was now in front of him.

"You've grown, Eter, into a fine stallion like your father," Lucra smiled.

"I can't believe that I was right all along," Shard shook his head, "I had a feeling of you being alive somewhere."

"Yes, it's true as I'm right here and now you see me," Lucra declared.

"Should we give them a moment of privacy?" Neezra whispered.

"Yeah, he missed her so much," Venang nodded.

"Then let us go," the bull-griffon pointed.

The thestral and the hybrids left the room, giving the two the time to be alone.

"Is it true?" Shard asked.

"True of what?"

"That you're the 'Wretched Fiend that the enemies I fought said about?"

"Yes," Lucra admitted, "I'm one of the strongest hybrids and the first that betrayed the Master."

"I see, if you are an enemy to them, are you also my enemy?" Shard frowned.

"Of course not," Lucra assured, "I would never harm you, Eter."

"But you did," Shard pointed.

"How?"

"Back at Shimmering Dawn, when me and Venang first encountered, I had a thought that you were the one who attacked us because of your eyes," Shard explained.

"You had the same color of your eyes as mine, so I assumed that it was you because of that and your cloak, and I was right," Shard added.

Shard felt tears forming in his eyes as he looked down. Lucra felt speechless as she saw her own son about to cry.

"Are you still my mother?"

...

"Are we still the same?

...

"Papa said that we would overcome any hardships together as one family."

Lucra's eyes went wide by his comment. She heard that words 'overcome' and 'together' from somepony closed to her.

"Am I still y-"

His sentence was cut off as he felt hooves wrapped around him. He looked up to see his mother having tears rolling down from her eyes as she looked at him with guilt. The colt returned the hug tightly as he buried his face at her chest. They both missed each other dearly as not by strangers of difference, but as a family. Their own family.

After a few minutes of silence, they loosened the hug a little to get a moment of getting air.

"I'm very sorry, my baby," Lucra frowned.

"Mama.." Shard sniffed.

"I was a horrible mother for leaving you after four years, faking the report of my death, and failed to see you growing up to be who you are right now," Lucra shook her head.

"I want to have a happy family again, mama," Shard pleaded.

"We will, Eter, you, me, and your future wife," Lucra smiled.

"What about papa?" Shard frowned

"I'm sorry, but I didn't see him after I escaped. I have no idea of where he is right now," Lucra explained.

"I understand."

"By the way, when you said my future wife, you mean Venang?" Shard asked.

"You two have a great bond, so similar like me and your father that she would be a great member to our own family," Lucra nodded.

"I've been thinking of something for a while now," Shard blushed.

"Go on, tell me," Lucra nodded.

"I know that this is to early to ever think of, but I want to marry her," Shard explained.

"Really?" Lucra gaped, "You and that thestral had just been together for just a few weeks and you want to propose her in such a young age?"

"Well, if you don-"

"It's alright, baby," Lucra smirked as she ruffled his mane, "If it makes you happy, then I won't stop you, as long as you promise that you will love her with all your heart ."

"Yeah, I will," Shard nodded.

Suddenly, they heard and looked at the door creaked open slowly, revealing the thestral filly who was blushing really hard with a big smile, possibly heard of what they were talking about. Shard then turned back his gaze at his mother.

"I believed that she would be perfect since she stood beside me through the dangers that I had come across," Shard explained.

"And because she enjoyed being with you as her somepony?" Lucra asked.

The colt nodded proudly.

"Then you two are better for the best," Lucra smiled as she let him go.

Shard then turned around as walked towards to Venang. The filly was smiling at him with grace and somewhat like approval of possibly what he said about marrying her early.

"I was suprised by what you said about proposing me," Venang smirked.

"Well, we've been together for a short time, but it seems we've enjoyed sticking together as one," Shard admitted.

"That's so manly of you," Venang laughed, "I like it."

"I wish for us to live forever together so that our bond never ends," Shard sighed.

Then, the hybrids enter the room.

"You two do not have to worry about life," the bull-pony declared,

"What do you mean?" The duo asked in confusion.

"We gave you two something that are known to be quite unique gifts" Neezra smiled, "To put it simply, you two are just as immortal as us."

"Awesome!" Shard whooped.

"That's cool!" Venang beamed.

After a few hours, the duo were now back at their ship for departure.

"We'll see each other again kids, I promise," Lucra declared.

"What are you gonna do?" Shard asked.

"I'll just rally my other followers to assemble the army. You and you friend should return to rest and prepare for final adjustments of your abilities since this may be no return once the war will start," Lucra replied.

"Will do," Shard smiled.

At that, the ship was surrounded by a mist, until a few seconds later, it subsided, revealing to the duo that they were in a few miles away from the port of Equestria. They had to be ready as this would be the most unforgettable challenge in their life. This could be their end or their new beginning, whatever the conclusion would be after the war.

Author's Note

Had to rush this since I have more quizzes to do in college. :facehoof:

Next chapter in progress..

The potential within..

MEANWHILE...

Out in the courtyard, Phan Tom was practicing his signature skills for the battle. He fired several dark spears at each of the targets that passed through, causing them to be sliced almost instantly in half. Next, he dodged through every arrows that were thrown at him as he countered with a crescent slash, deflecting them at random directions. He then conjured a dark orb as he approached his next target with blinding speed. As he reached to it without a mere second, he pushed the orb into the dummy, pushing it to the wall.

He stopped to catch his breath from the exhaustion of his energy in getting almost perfect results in his training. Sighing, he felt like he hadn't use further his power since he believed that it could be enough to battle his cousin in equal strength, but it could also lead to the risk of losing permanent focus. Sure, he was given immortality, but he could still experience true death through different means. One would be a weapon that was forged into the undying dark magic that was strong enough to truly harm any foes. Another would be done by a ritual as simple as that. There was one way, but he didn't know of what would it be since he only heard rumors about it. The last would be done by a mere being who possessed the power of life and death that was given by their ancestors.

He shuddered to think of who would it be.

"You feel disappointed?" the Master asked.

"I feel like I still do not have the efficient capacity to ever face him in true battle, Master," Phan Tom sighed.

"I understand, he may be a mere child, but he possess such power as the Wretched Fiend herself," the Master nodded.

"I must have the efficiency to further match equally against him," Phan Tom said.

"Which is why I am giving you this," the Master showed a mysterious orb to him.

"What is this?" Phan Tom took it from his hold, "Some kind of a boost?"

"Yes, this orb contains a portion of my power," the Master declared.

"But why?" Phan Tom asked.

"In ever I will fall, you will be our last hope to bring our tribe to a bright future and eliminating that cursed colt," the Master explained.

"If I absorb this, I will receive your ultimate abilities?" Phan Tom inquired.

"Yes," the Master nodded, "You will feel my power as it is also your own."

With that, Phan Tom started to absorb it, sensing dark traces of dark magic going inside him. As more magic he absorbed, he thought to himself that he was being buffed like using steroids to boost the muscles. He heard voices of the dead whispering at his ears. As he completed the process, he felt stronger. He let out a laugh that could signify of how much the darkness consumed him into the very end. His eyes were glowing bright red, a means of a dangerous beast unleashed.

IN CANTERLOT...

Shard and Venang looked at the night sky, seeing stars twinkling with grace as they felt the colt air breezing upon them. Staying close to one another as the thestral wrapped her side wing around him as a blanket. They had been thinking of what would be the possibility of their fate if they ever win the war. Will they still be together after, will Venang's parents let Shard to propose their daughter in such a young age, and will they have a peaceful life with no worries.

Few minutes later, they went inside the castle, straight to their quarters for to slumber. As they opened the door, they saw something glowing at their front table. It was a bluish orb of some sort. They approached it and examined what kind of the orb was and why it would be at their room. They touched the orb as they noticed a mist surrounding the room, even the door, so they could not get out. Then, spectral beings appeared around them as the two flinched of being surrounded by ghosts. The spirits were in different species, one was a hybrid of bull-pony, the other was bull-snake, the next was a pony-snake that looked similar to Neezra, then lastly was a normal unicorn with a cloak, covering his body, but only his face.

"Do not fret, children, we mean you no harm," the cloaked unicorn declared.

"How can it be when you guys are surrounding us with this mist?!" Shard yelled.

"We only wish to speak with you foals," the pony-snake assured.

"I hope you won't give us nightmares," Venang cringed.

"We will not," the pony-snake smiled.

"Okay, start talking," Shard declared.

"As you wish," the cloaked unicorn nodded as he began to explain, "You see, this battle will determine the future of our tribe if it will ever to be continued to exist or to be erased from history. Standing triumph against the Master will only be just an obstacle. The real challenge is the one who will face you in equal battle, a battle that will truly shake the fate of our souls."

"The real challenge?" Venang asked.

"Phan Tom..." Shard frowned.

"Correct, he has become one with the legends," the bull-snake nodded.

"He's just a pretender," Venang scoffed.

"Exactly. We have full confidence that you two have the potential or at least one of you ever strong enough to face him until your last dying breath," the cloaked unicorn declared.

"Why are you telling us?" Shard asked.

"Because this will mark your finale in your history," the bull-snake replied hastily.

"Farewell, children," the spirits bellowed as they disappeared from view and the mist subsided.

The duo looked at each other for a moment.

"This is so bucked up," Shard shook his head.

"No kidding," Venang nodded, "Facing the leader and then your cousin. Such complication."

"So, this will be the end of all things, eh?" Shard asked.

"I guess so, fate and all even if we are invincible," Venang frowned.

"But hey, at least we still have each other."

"Always," Venang smiled.

"We may never get another chance to continue in life, but for the very least, we will find worth to our end," Shard declared.

"Forever best friends?"

"Forever!" the duo said proudly in unison.

Suddenly, they felt magic whirling around them as they sensed their respective abilities showing them something. Venang felt the flame covering her as if like armor. Her flame sword appeared unknowingly from her hoof without even summoning it. She noticed she had a flame star from her other hoof, it was the same her cutie mark. For Shard, looked at the mirror to see himself in his archon form. He noticed he was in a frost immolation and an orb appeared at his side. He held it and it transformed into the knife sword that he first conjured, but only sharper now and longer. It had a distinct traces of dark frost air swirling around the blade.

He also noticed that he was wearing a dark armor chest plate. It looked like a royal guard's, but it had symbol of a strange skull with glowing bluish eyes. The plating was made of such dark magic like it was forged from Tartarus.

"Could this be?" Venang asked.

"I think so," Shard replied, "We must be in our advanced forms now."

"This is awesome!" Venang beamed.

"Totally, I got a fresh chest here," Shard smiled.

The filly giggled as she kissed him on the cheek.

"Let's sleep now so we can prepare our techniques," Shard declared.

"Right beside you," Venang nodded.

The duo went back to their original appearances as they went to bed, embracing each other to sleep smoothly for the cold night and to have good dreams. They needed it to be prepared for the conflict. They would either succeed or fail as they would soon find out of what would be the ending of their everything.

Author's Note

Next chapter in progress...

The last strength... { End of Act 2 }

THE NEXT DAY

"I'm not going down that easily!" Shard smirked.

"I'm not through with you yet!" Venang smiled.

At the training grounds, they were practicing their skills together in a friendly match, if ever it would be one. They attacked one another by their respective swords as they tried to be the victor of the match. Shard dashed with a long slash, but Venang immediately reacted to the attack and dodged instantly, completely disappearing without a trace. Without hesitation, the colt slashed his sword behind him as he sensed it collided with something. He turned around to see Venang appeared behind him as she tried pushing her sword against his'.

"You have a good timing," Venang admitted, "But not enough to keep up for the next!"

At that, she disappeared again. Shard knew that it would happen again, so he inhaled and exhaled once before turning around and parried her next attack from his left. He then made an attempt to kick her chest, only to be hit from behind as he was pushed forward to collide his face with the magic wall. He got up as he turned back and dashed hastily straight to her. She dodged the attack by flying above, only to be ensnared by a mist of cold air.

"Clever," Venang snorted as she looked down at him.

"Oh, I was just warming up and all," Shard shrugged.

"Well, warm up this!"

The thestral unleashed her immolation as the mist subsided into thin air. She then lashed out at him with a swing of her sword. The colt parried it, but felt himself being pushed backwards. Her next move was conjuring fire balls, throwing them at him. He blocked them by making a shield around him. Then, he sensed a presence behind, so he turned around and tried to parry, but he felt a burning sensation his chest. He looked at his chest to see a hoof pressing against it with fire. He looked back up to see Venang the one did the punch. The shield disappeared as silence occurred.

"Looks like I win," Venang smiled.

It was then, it turned out to be the biggest mistake of her life. Dark tendrils appeared from his chest. Some of them were forming around on Venang's hoof as she cringed of what would happen next. The tendrils pushed her back with extreme force. She managed to get on balance, but looked to see Shard being covered by the dark tendrils. After a brief moment, the tendrils turned into a dark mist, revealing him. He was changed into his archon form. His eyes were glowing brightly blue as there were traces of flame coming out from them like Sombra's. Strange, the chest plating that he had last night from his previous transformation was no longer there, possibly the armor became now a part of him permanently. His face became an expression of confidence with a smirk.

"Uh, Shard?" Venang cringed, "Are you alright?"

...

"You're kinda scaring me right now."

...

"Uh, are you yourself?" Venang took a step back.

The colt disappeared instantly as he appeared behind her without a mere second. She felt the pressure of fear building up as he looked at her with unmovable eyes. Gulping, she tried to move, but felt froze as he stroked her mane with a hoof, chuckling by the look on her face.

"Getting afraid now, eh?" Shard asked.

"I thought you would go berserk," Venang shrugged

"And I thought you would go finish me off," Shard chuckled.

"So, does this means we continue the practice?"

"Well, there's still no victor yet," Shard pointed.

"Then let's go!" Venang declared.

ONE HOUR LATER

Their battle was intense at they keep fighting until one of them would get the upper hoof. They kept fighting as they appeared from different directions with blinding speed. Venang managed to keep up her agility, but was soon to be in par with Shard's transformation as he reacted at every move she made when dodging his attacks. Both of them used their signature abilities while dueling through their respective blades. No matter how long the battle was, they still fought for the win as they kept up in combat.

They did not lose focus, not even a mere moment as they continued battling. After few minutes had passed, they stopped for a moment to get air after an hour of non stop attack. They were equal in almost everything as neither of them ever received such damage, not even through physical means like punching or kicking. They had no choice but to do one thing..

They would use the extension of their powers through using their life essence.

"By the undying strength of the inferno, where there is an infinite light, give me the power of the blazing goddess!" Venang chanted.

Her sword was starting to glow brightly as green fire started to cover it purely.

"In the realm of pure darkness, revealing the cursed legend of old, provide me your soul in bringing redemption of my last life!" Shard bellowed.

His blade was sharpened and a light blue mist was formed around it. His eyes were glowing into light sky blue.

Their special abilities proved to be quite efficient, though they took the risk very seriously. They charged against one another as they roared with ferocity like the loss of self-control when releasing such power that may be their undoing. Getting close now, closer until there was a sound of...

BANG!

Their swords finally collided, showing all what they got to find out who would be the victor. The collided energies were so strong that their swords created a circular mist around the two. Gritting, they continued giving out their strength until their blades formed a blinding light was appearing from them. It covered the scene, making unaware of what happened next. The result of their attack created a giant smoke and such sound that could be heard from very distant places, even outside of Equestria.

TWO HOURS LATER

"They're waking up!"

Hearing that voice, Shard opened his eyes to see that he's in the quarters. He looked to see his mother, the mentor, and Venang's parents. He looked at his left to see Venang who also woke up at the other bed.

"Thank goodness, you two are alright," Lucra sighed.

"Our precious daughter," Venang's father embraced her, "We thought you died."

"I'm okay, dada," Venang wheezed, "I can take this pain."

"What happened?" Shard asked.

"Based from what you two did, the collision created a massive surge of magic that it almost destroyed the area. It also destroyed the barrier that I created," the mentor explained.

"Oh, sorry about that," Venang shrugged.

"No need, I can always create another," the mentor smiled.

"What you and Venang did was seriously critical," Lucra declared, "Using a portion of your own life force to create such a boost to your power was out of the question."

"I just wanted to try that spell," Shard frowned.

"Well, I made that ability for a reserved purpose," Lucra pointed, "Only use it when no other options left in battle."

"You two are strong," Venang's mother admitted, "But, keep in mind to use your powers in a moderate level."

"Please don't try to risk yourself in dying because of your doing, understand?"

"Yes, dada, I'll keep that in mind," Venang nodded.

''Later, we'll be departing to get ready," Lucra declared, "For now, rellax for the time being, we'll carry you two to the ship when we're ready."

"Can I please be in the other bed with him?" Venang asked.

"Sure," Venang's father picked her up and placed her beside him.

"Get some rest for now," Lucra ordered.

"Okay," the duo nodded in unison.

At that, they left the room, giving the kids the time alone.

"I guess we overdid it too much, eh?"

"Yeah, my body hurts like I was squashed," Venang groaned.

"Sorry that I pushed you too hard," Shard nodded.

"We're at fault together, Shard," Venang pointed, "We just wanted to win the game."

"Well, at least there's a reward for our effort in showing our true powers."

"And what would that be?"

"This," Shard nuzzled his muzzle at her's.

The filly giggled as she moved closer to his side and wrapped a wing around him before kissing at his cheek.

"I love you, Shard," Venang smiled.

"And I love you, Venang," Shard beamed.

The two went to sleep afterwards, wrapping at each other's embrace. It was a hectic event that they made. Neither of them won the match, but for the very least, they had proven themselves to be ready for the battle. Their powers were very formidable that they could handle it without any worries. This could be it for them, never going back as they readied themselves the time of their lives. They may never know of what would be their fate after, but they didn't care about it anymore because they had each other to fight for the ultimate ending of their chapter.

This would be their finale as they determined to make their last mark in their history.

END OF ACT 2

Author's Note

This is the end of Act 2. Act 3 will be in progress soon. I decided to move the bonus chapters into a new story that I'll be making in the future.

THANKS FOR READING

{ Act 3 Beginning } The last demon...

A FEW HOURS LATER

"Ugh, is it daylight already?"

Yawning, Shard opened his eyes as he felt like the room was moving in such an unstable manner. He got up, rubbing his eyes to see that he's inside the ship as he looked at the window the background of the ocean waves roaring at random directions. After doing a bit of stretching, he also noticed Venang who was still sleeping and drooling at the same bed they shared. Chuckling, he approached her and tapped her shoulder to wake her up. After a few attempts, she irritatingly woke up with an annoyed look on her face.

"Is it time for an early morning walk?" Venang asked.

"Even better," Shard lend out a hoof.

The filly held his hoof as she got up from the bed.

"I'm guessing they brought us here while we slept."

"Yep, I feel rejuvenated after long hours of sleep."

"Me too, let's go up to see where we are right now."

"I agree."

They went up to see that they were sailing straight to an unknown island that had a large castle. The area there had a red fog around it that looked like its barrier or a border like keeping out of terrorists. They noticed that they were getting close now to it, almost in an hour or like thirty minutes.

"I see that you two are now fully recovered."

They looked behind them to see Lucra carrying a tray of sandwiches.

"Go on, eat," she said as she laid down the tray at the floor.

The duo sat down and took some sandwiches as they began eating.

"Thanks," Venang smiled.

"Your welcome, you two will need it."

"So, what do we do if we hit the mainland?" Shard asked.

"You two will have to get to the castle and face the leader," Lucra declared.

"What about you?" Venang asked.

"Me and our forces will provide cover and enough diversion for you two to push through without much pressure," Lucra explained

"Okay, what should we do for the time being?"

"If you want, we can talk about of something that you two should need to know," Lucra declared.

The duo glanced at each other for a moment in fear.

"What?" they asked in unison.

"Well," Lucra scratched the back of her head, "Me and your parents had been observing on you two always cuddling and doing mushy stuffs that were only for grown up adults."

"And then?" Shard asked.

"We were doing some kind of a test on your friend while you were asleep," Lucra gulped.

"What kind of test? Is it on my lower part?" Venang growled.

...

"Yes, it's a pregnancy test," Lucra announced, "The result was positive, so you're pregnant."

Their eyes went wide, especially Shard as he felt his heart pumped so fast like he was gonna get a heart attack. They wanted to marry of course, but not yet of having foals since they didn't have any experience in doing so at a young age. How was it possible for Shard to impregnate her when they were just doing some hugs and kisses. They never had a memory of doing anything ecstatic from the previous nights in sleeping together.

"But," Shard gaped. "How was it possible?"

"Yeah, he was just wooing me and all," Venang frowned.

"Possibly you two had an intercourse but had no memory of it while you two were asleep," Lucra pointed.

"Oh gosh," Shard sighed.

"This is so bucked up," Venang scowled.

"So, how many foals are there inside her?" Shard cringed.

"Two," Lucra declared.

Hearing that answer, Shard stood up as he walked away from the conversation and looked back to the destination that they're heading soon.

"This is not good," Venang sighed.

"Well, you two have each other to handle it," Lucra pointed.

"I am so bucked," Shard groaned as he continued banging his head.

"Hey, don't feel so bad," Lucra assured, "We'll help you get over this."

"You will," Venang gaped.

"Yes, your parents agreed to assist in taking care of you when you will be in your progress of pregnancy," Lucra smiled.

"Thanks," Venang smiled, "I'll need it mostly."

"Of course," Lucra nodded, "Now, I think you should try comforting your to-be husband there to not feel worse?"

Venang looked at him for a moment. She noticed his expression was so down that he could have the thought of committing suicide. His feeling of guilt may had caused him to fear the possible outcomes in her stages of pregnancy. Frowning, she got up as she went to him and stood by his side.

"Are you okay?" Venang asked.

"I'm sorry," Shard replied.

"Don't be," Venang shook her head, "We didn't expect this to be early anyway."

"What about your parents? What if they will forbid me from seeing you ever again?" Shard cringed.

"Don't think of that, Shard," Venang glared, "You know enough that my parents are always kind to you and always welcome you as long as you care for me."

"What about the mood swings?"

"What's that?" Venang inquired.

"Usually, when as progress goes on, you might feel either hungry, sad, or angry. You might throw such tantrum at me for making you pregnant and have to make you fat and all," Shard explained.

"I see," Venang noted, "But don't worry, it won't break our connection as I can assure you that I'll always be the same."

"Can you be certain?"

"I'm certain," Venang replied.

"Alright then," Shard gave out a weak smile, "So, how are we going to settle this?"

"Actually, you will have to continue what you want to do," Venang declared.

"What?" Lucra gaped.

"No, I must help you for our foals," Shard pointed.

"But I don't want you to bear anymore sufferings after what you had been through already," Venang frowned, "Being abandoned, being dumped, and seeing how I almost died from those time to keep you alive."

"I'm what you need for the foals," Shard declared.

"But you are also what the others need for a savior," Venang countered.

"Do this for yourself, Shard," Venang added, "For me."

"What about you?" Shard asked worriedly.

"I'll be alright," Venang assured, "Your mother and my parents will help me."

"I don't get it. Why do you want this?" Shard frowned.

"You are somepony that I can always count on for the sake of making changes in life," Venang smiled, "Giving me such happiness in having kids and being the best friend that I could ever have."

"If you wish that way, then I'll respect it," Shard finally gave in.

"Thank you," Venang beamed as she kissed him on the cheek.

"Let's get a heads up, shall we?" Shard smiled.

"Right at you," Venang smirked.

At that, they transformed into their respective forms as they flew straight to the island with blinding speed. As they reached the land, they sensed arrows and magic blasts approaching them fast. They cooperatively dodged every one of them as they dived down at their enemies in one powerful slam. The circular shockwave created a powerful force that sent the surrounding soldiers around the two being pushed back before being impaled by such ice spears.

Venang, for the first time, summoned clones of herself in battling the next wave as she and Shard made their way to the castle. As they reached to the village, more soldiers came out as the big heavy artillery fired a powerful dark magic cannon. Shard managed to create in the time a large ice shield as he retaliated with a special technique. He summoned a power clone of himself that had a set of dark ice armor and a long sword. The two then continued moving forward as the clone distracted the soldiers and the artillery.

Back the ship, the Wretched Fiend looked in suprise as she the saw the island being in flames as she heard loud voices of soldiers dying and explosions.

"What the?" Lucra gasped.

"They seemed to take the assault at a quick phase," a pony-bull remarked.

"Should we continue on course?" Neezra asked.

"Of course, you fool!" Lucra growled, "My son is there with his soon to-be wife battling without us!

"Haha, as you wish, milady," Neezra chuckled.

Back the duo, they finally reached the castle as they opened the doors with force and slashed their way through from the gargoyles. Fighting through each hybrids they encountered as they kept moving forward in reaching to the top of the castle. Once there, they did not expect their enemy to be what they thought it could be now. They saw a dead body of a black pony that had its chest opened as a pool of blood was below the body. They also saw of what seemed to be their true enemy.

"We meet again, cousin.."

"Hello, Phan Tom," Shard growled.

Phan Tom became different. His horn was gone, his wings became more sharpened, his body was covered in a such dark immolation, and his eyes were glowing with flames.

"I see that you killed your master," Venang remarked.

"Yes," Phan Tom sneered, "I killed the fool to make sure I am the only opponent here that you will ever face."

"Then let us be your challengers then!" Venang roared.

She charged straight at him with her sword released. Phan Tom immediately dodged her slash, conjuring quickly a dark orb. Unfortunately, he was then pushed back as Shard appeared in front him and kicked his chest forcefully followed by Venang's fiery enhanced punch. Phan Tom was sent back to a nearby wall, but got up quickly as if he only received less damage.

"You two show some promise in fighting with effort," Phan Tom spat.

"What's the matter, starting to lose your cool, eh?" Shard snorted.

"Oh, I was merely complimenting you two..." Phan Tom smirked

It was then, Phan Tom's aura was enlarged as orbs were appearing around him. The sky was now raining hard as a powerful thunderstorm appeared in the area.

"This isn't looking good," Venang admitted.

"I know," Shard nodded, "You must get out of here."

"What?" Venang gaped.

"Leave this battle to me instead," Shard declared, "You must hold off the soldiers long enough for our reinforcements to arrive."

"Are you sure you can do this?" Venang frowned.

"I wish you could join with me, but it looks like this is the fight between the legends," Shard admitted.

"Alright," Venang sighed, "Good luck, Shard."

"You too," Shard kissed her at the cheek.

The thestral flew off, leaving him to face alone his relative. The colt activated further his ice immolation as he prepared for the fight of his life. The storm was roaring as the wind breezed the area with its coldness.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

Next chapter in progress... :pinkiesmile:

The Lifeless

"So, this is it.." Shard sneered.

"You know what it must be done," Phan Tom declared.

The two collided in such power that never before been released. Phan Tom tried doing an uppercut, but Shard immediately punched his face so hard that he was forced back. However, he instantly disappeared from view, making Shard readying his ice spheres. Without a mere second, he turned around and attacked with his orb, noticing that it collided with Phan Tom's dark spear.

"Quick reaction, eh?"

"Got a problem with that?" Shard spat.

"No, but this," Phan Tom smirked.

Phan Tom created a shockwave, creating an explosion that sent Shard flying to wall, impacting on the process.

"You sick bucker," Shard groaned.

"And this.."

He then charged straight at him with blinding speed. Shard managed to create a shield, but it broke easily as Phan Tom's orb shattered it into air before giving him a blow to the head. This caused him to hit the floor with force.

"You are now beyond my power," Phan Tom laughed, "You are inferior."

It was then, he felt a pain in his chest.

"Gaaahhh!!"

Phan Tom was sent back by a powerful shockwave. As he regained his stance, he noticed Shard in his archon form starting to take on its advanced strength. His eyes were starting to glow pure light blue as his air showed some traces of cold gust.

"I do not know what this is, but I can guarantee that it will be insufficient," Phan Tom growled.

The two once again charged at each other, preparing for the next round to be bloody.

MEANWHILE..

Venang created more of her clones to eliminate as much of the soldiers as she could to avoid them from reaching him. There were artillery, but she would not give up that easily. She cast massive fireballs at each catapults to destroy them at ease. Then, additional soldiers appeared as she readied her sword. She dashed through every one of them, slicing them instantly like she was dashing in a zig-zag line.

However, more of them just keep coming and it looked like she drained a large portion of her energy. Not wanting to give in, she raised her sword high as she began to chant the words for her destructive spell. The clones were able to provide enough time in holding off the enemies as she started to slam her weapon unto the ground. The result created a flaming whirlwind that expanded outwards, incinerating most of the soldiers in the process into dust.

"I hope that's the last of them," Venang sighed.

Unfortunately, luck wasn't at her side today. Soldiers appeared from below as they charged at her. Still having enough energy inside her, she did a back flip as she cast a fire wheel in a straight line, killing them in a perfect direction.

"Oh, come on, can't even a pregnant filly get a break?" Venang groaned.

Then, she sensed a spear approaching at her. As she prepared to parry it, she felt a shield was formed in front of her. The spear vanished into thin air after colliding with it.

"Go."

She turned around to see Lucra and the reinforcements fighting against the advanced soldiers.

"We'll keep them busy," Lucra declared, "Get back up there and help my boy."

"Understood," Venang nodded as she flew up and went straight to the top of the castle.

BACK AT THE CASTLE...

The challengers collided on as every step of their skills met with equal force against each other. A thunderstorn roared in anger as a powerful rain washed them in the sense of the last. As more and more of their attacks went out, they could not stop in getting a moment of extra time. As Phan Tom threw numbers of dark spheres, Shard continued in catching up to him as he ignored the impacts of his attacks. He then slashed out his sword in quick succession, catching Phan Tom off guard as he felt a sharp pain in his shoulder.

The blood loss was big, but he kept his focus at him as he prepared his next spell. But, he was stopped by a fire ball that caught him in flames and severely damaged his open wound. After a brief moment, he extinguished himself from the fire as he growled in anger. As he looked back at his cousin, he noticed that the thestral had returned and was beside him.

"So, you came back and decided to join in the same fate with your beloved," Phan Tom smiled.

"I'd rather be with him than being a sole parent, even if I had to die with the foals" Venang snarled.

"Oh, foals?" Phan Tom gaped.

"None of your business to know," Shard growled.

"Well, I would give you a simple congratulatory for creating pieces of food inside her," Phan Tom smirked.

"Buck you, plothole!" Venang roared.

The filly charged at him with blinding speed as she made an attempt to strike from behind. However, she felt a major pain in her stomach as she looked to see Phan Tom punched her with great force. Without hesitation after seeing her being hit badly, Shard blinked instantly from behind and cast a circular shockwave, shaking the ground as Phan Tom lost his balanced and was sent back before being impacted once again to a wall.

Shard held Venang in his hooves, checking her life pulse.

"It hurts so much," Venang groaned as she clutched her stomach.

"I didn't know that you would lash out like that," Shard admitted.

"Sorry, I got carried away," Venang frowned.

"Just let me take care of this one," Shard smiled, "Enjoy the show."

"Oh, fine," Venang grumbled as leaned back against a wall.

The battle then resumed as the two kept on attacking through highly powered dark magic and their respective elements. The energy of their combat was so strong that the thunderstorm roared ferociously. The cousins kept on the move to get a little window of opportunity in dealing the hit. Both released their attacks with ease and dodged swiftly from each other's physical punches and kicks. As the storm continued to rage, Phan Tom released a powerful blast of dark magic on him as he began roaring to the skies in the beginning of his new form.

As Shard recovered from the attack, he was shocked to see Phan Tom in such a new state. He had some armor in his body, his wings became enlarged, and he was covered in a dark cloak that made him as dark as Nightmare Moon. The colt gulped in hoping that he would beat him as he returned to his fighting stance. After a brief moment, Shard made an attempt to create an ice sphere, but was caught off guard as Phan Tom appeared behind him instantly and hit him a powerful dark sphere, sending him pushed back with force. As he began to retaliate with an ice fissure, Phan Tom countered it with a dark flaming shockwave that removed the fissure and burned him in a fierymanner.

"This not good," Venang gaped.

She just sat there hopeless as her lover struggled in fighting back as he received critical damage from his cousin's lethal attacks. It was then, she noticed that he was completely immobile as Phan Tom prepared to finish him with a sharp sword. Despite the pain from her stomach, she stood up and began to approach him to be used as his shield. Knowing that this might be her true death despite being said that she was immortal, she sighed for the last time she felt the sword pierced her chest, right at her heart.

Shard watched in horror as blood came out from her chest. He noticed her turned around to look at him, smiling while shedding tears and traces of blood from her mouth. Her 'last words' were,

"Thank you... and goodbye" Venang smiled.

She was then released from the blade as she landed, completely no movement and even breathing. She was dead, for real as if immortality was not given to them. Shard felt his own tears running down in his face as he looked in sadness and...

ANGER

"You...."

The ground was shaking heavily as the storm began to roar harder. The rain became even more stronger as there were sounds of buildings crashing down and the sounds of tornadoes wherein a powerful wind appeared.

"Wha-what is this?" Phan Tom gaped.

Multiple lightnings appeared at random directions as a dark fire appeared from the air and surrounded the colt. There were sounds of the dead whispering loudly, making Phan Tom flinched in despair as he thought to himself that if this could be his true form. Nevertheless, he foolish told to himself that it wouldn't be enough to defeat him.

"Killed my love... my foals..."

Or so he thought.

Phan Tom was taken aback what he heard as he looked to see the one that he used to know. Shard was no longer in his archon form, his appearance became different now. The color of his mane and tail, still had the black one, but the sky blue turned to dark teal, wings became like a fallen angel's, his coat was slightly brightened, and he was wearing the same scarf that he once wore. A new amulet was attached to it, it had a symbol of two eyes glowing and had traces of blue flame. His eyes were also flaming as well in a light blue color.

"Cousin.." Phan Tom frowned, "Is that you?"

"You are not my cousin," Shard snarled quietly.

"I do not know this.. power.." Phan Tom admitted.

"You monster.."

Phan Tom felt a massive blow on his chest, sending back to be collided with a wall.

"YOU KILLED MY OWN FAMILY!" Shard bellowed, "YOU KILLED MY OWN CHILDREN!"

Next, he received more damage from Shard's powerful frost spheres continiously.

"YOU HAVE NO PURPOSE TO LIVE ANYMORE!" Shard yelled.

It was then, he charged at him with great force and bloodlust as he punched him countless of times in the face before giving him a powerful kick to chest. As Phan Tom tried to retaliate with a massive dark sphere, Shard immediately appeared in front of him and sliced once the orb by his enhanced frost sword that had traces of dark magic whirling around it. The slice resulted the orb to be split in half and vanished simply into air. Phan Tom gasped by the power Shard did in destroying one his powerful spells.

As the colt began to slash him, Phan Tom reacted in dashing backwards, but felt a sharp pain in his spine as he turned around to see him who did just a simple stab. Then, Shard disappeared instantly as he sliced him from different sides. Phan Tom felt his critical bloss becoming worse as he tried to follow up his next move, but failed due to feeling weakened. As Phan Tom used his shockwave, he felt being sent upwards as he sensed his chin being pushed up. His eyes were able too look down to see what had caused it.

"This is the end," Shard declared.

While they were in mid air, Shard continued in slicing him with his sword. Phan Tom began to feel his body beginning to go numb as he felt his temperature turned to cold. Tears appeared in his eyes as he drew in his final breath, smiling as he felt the ending of the battle. The end of suffering.

"Burn in Tartarus!" Shard bellowed.

Shard stabbed him in the chest, causing a bright light appeared from him. He was able to cover his eyes in time. As the light began to die out, he uncovered his eyes to be in suprise by what he happened after. He was in a dining room that looked so abandoned as there were some broken parts in the decorations. There were chairs for like high officials and a table that had some scrolls, jewelries, and some random materials. Was he in heaven?

"Shard?"

That voice. He looked at his left to see Venang stood by the door. The slice on her chest was no more and she still retained her new thestral form.

"Venang! Oh my goodness!" Shard cried.

They ran up to each other and embraced with tears in their eyes.

"I'm glad you're here," Shard smiled.

"And I thought you would won" Venang admitted, "I guess not."

"I did, but it seemed I died by the light," Shard declared.

"That sucks," Venang frowned.

"I know," Shard nodded, "But, at least we have each other with our foals."

"Yeah, even if we aren't in our world anymore" Venang beamed.

"Together always?" Shard asked.

"Together always," Venang grinned as she kissed him on the cheek.

Suddenly, they heard the sounds of clapping behind them. They turned around to see spirits of different hybrids smiling at them while some were cheering at them with honor.

"Congratulations," the cloaked unicorn bowed.

"You two have defeated the old order," the pony-bull declared.

"From now on, a new future begins for our kin," the pony-griffon smiled.

"Thanks, but the real hero is my love, Shard" Venang pointed.

"True," the bull-snake nodded, "But you also had shown promise in assisting our new legend in his journey."

"You two had become the most powerful beings that no other beings would ever tell otherwise," the cloaked unicorn declared.

"Thanks," the duo beamed in unison.

"Now then, it is time that you two to return to your world," the pony-snake created a portal back to the mortal world.

"But, we died," Shard frowned.

"No, you two were lost in connections," the cloaked unicorn declared.

"What?" Venang asked in confusion.

"You see," the cloaked unicorn explained, "Phan Tom had the power to kill immortal beings after consuming the old Master's power. However, for you two, each of you are known to be more than just immortals. Deathless are those that never really die. After a few hours, you will be awaken like you woke up from an evening slumber or coma."

"Oh, that's really something good," the duo smiled awkwardly.

The spirits laughed.

"Haha, you two have such sense of humor," the cloaked unicorn smiled, "Now, go along and start your new life together with your love, oh Shard Vine."

"Take care of your children," the pony-bull grinned.

"We'll do," the duo nodded in unison.

As they were one step closer to the portal, they looked at each other for a moment, smiling as their chapter finally ended. Now, another chapter would be on the way, as parents.

"This is our time now," Shard declared.

"Yeah, it is," Venang nodded.

"As proud parents," Shard grinned.

"And as the best of friends," Venang smiled as she nuzzled him lightly.

By then, they stepped into the portal to begin their new journey.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

Almost done with this.. Just one last chapter, then I will move to its next sequel. :pinkiesmile:

A New Chapter Begins

After entering the portal, they were back at the top of the castle. They looked to see the weather returned to normal as the sun shined brightly at them, the flames from the attacks were extinguished, and number of dead bodies were piled up in the center of the ruined village.
The journey was over, all of their pain together were worth it as their job was successful. With all in the end, they would finally relax and continue their unending lives as parents. A new family that they would be, promising themselves to be the best that they could ever be for their foals.

"At last, everything is now over," Shard declared.

"Totally, we deserve a break," Venang nodded.

"The pain and the suffering were no longer a part of me," Shard announced.

"All in the past now," Venang smiled.

"I ended these negatives."

"Yeah!"

"At a cost..."

"Y-wait what?" Venang asked.

"The cost of whom I used to consider as family," Shard sighed.

"Oh, I'm sorry," Venang frowned.

"It's alright," Shard smiled weakly, "I didn't have a choice anyway. It was for the best."

"But, you now have this new pain in your heart," Venang frowned.

"I may just bear with it like I used to with my previous ones," Shard sighed.

"You do not have to, cousin."

Hearing that familiar voice, they turned around to see what they could not believe being real. It was Phan Tom, but he was no longer the demon that he used to be. His wings became like a normal pegasus', his horn was no more, his coat was color light gray, the colors of his mane and tail were black and blue, and his were blue, especially now like a normal pony's. He was now like a regular pony. He smiled at them, especially to Shard. Beside him was Lucra who had some scars from her hooves, but she didn't mind as she was happy that her son had done it.

"Phan Tom?" Shard gaped.

"You succeeded in being the one," Phan Tom smiled.

"How did you survive?" Shard asked.

"I did not," Phan Tom declared, "But, I was given an opportunity by the council..."

"They did?" Venang gaped.

"Yes, they were supposed to declare me as pure traitor and banish me to the void," Phan Tom explained, "However, they noticed that you," he pointed to Shard, "Still showed care for me and had wished for me to join with you, so they gave me the last chance to live for eternity in this mortal world in exchange I would serve you as the new Master."

The duo were suprised by what he said. They thought it was unbelievable

"Wow, I'll never understand those strangers," Venang grumbled.

"I hear ya," Shard nodded.

"Well, now that is being said done, how about we begin the crowning of our new leader?" Phan Tom asked.

Shard stood there for a moment to think. He looked at Venang to see her smiling at him, hoping that he make a better decision. Once, he wanted to be the leader to give them a better understanding in life. But, from all the things that he had experience, he decided to be with his new wife and for their foals. Breathing deeply, he was prepared to give out his answer with the strength from his heart.

"Phan Tom, I really appreciate for that, but I decline," Shard declared.

"What?" Venang gaped.

"WHAAAAAT?!" Lucra yelled.

"Really?" Phan Tom smirked.

"Yeah," Shard nodded, "I have a new life, with my own family."

"You have such a heart, cousin," Phan Tom remarked as he noticed Venang's eyes grew wide.

"I know," Shard nodded, "I had a good run as a hero for the tribe, now it's time for me to have a good run as a father."

"I see," Phan Tom smiled, "Well, who will take then the leadership?"

"It will be you, cousin," Shard declared.

"Are you sure that this is what you heart desires?" Phan Tom asked.

The colt nodded proudly.

"Very well, I will lead our kin to a new future," Phan Tom announced, "For you, the new Master."

"Thanks," Shard chuckled.

Lucra then approached him with an approving look on her face. She understood very well of what he wanted as it would make him happy.

"Congratulations, baby," Lucra said happily.

"Thanks, mama," Shard replied.

"Always remember that I'm always to support you and your partner," Lucra declared.

At that, he went to Venang was completely suprised by his decision. He wiped some of the tears that were formed her face as he embraced him tightly in his hooves. The filly embraced back with happiness as she nuzzled him.

"I don't care if this will be a challenge for me, I'll always be here for you no matter what," Shard smiled.

"Thank you," Venang beamed.

"For ourselves," Shard declared.

"And for our foals," Venang added.

"Shall we go home, my love?" Shard asked.

"Yeah, let's go home," Venang smiled.

As they ended the hug, they flew up ( Shard's new appearance was permanent, but he was able to make his wings appear or not ) into the sky. As they reached high of it, they flew straight to the direction back to Equestria. They didn't bother to bring along the ship as they only needed themselves to get back home together. They were willing to make their new lives worth to live as they were determined to do it as solo and duo. Someday, their kids would be their successors in facing new challenges to bring honor to the family.

( Stories of Venang's pregnancy and some of bonus chapters of 'The Endless' will be put seperately soon )

TWELVE YEARS LATER

The family enjoyed a bonding time together in swimming in the pool at their new home in Canterlot. Princess Celestia had given them the privilege to have a house in the city for them to live for free as they earned it truly for their nobility. They were enjoying the cooling water as the sun was shining hot. Shard and Venang were happy in enjoying the moment, along with their foals, Blizz and Flake.

"I have to say, living here is quite okay for me since we have a pool and all," Shard admitted.

"It's just the pool that we love," Venang laughed.

They noticed their kids looking them with curiosity in their faces.

"Oh, don't mind about that, kids, we were just saying random bit and all."

"Okay, mommy," Flake smiled as she swam to her, embracing her tightly.

"To be honest, this makes me horny," Shard chuckled, "The cold water and all."

Blizz giggled as she swam beside him, nuzzling his side. He wrapped a wing around her and stroke her wet mane softly while feeling her softness. The filly kissed him on the cheek as she leaned on him.

This was a new happiness for him. He promised himself to maintain it and help his foals to rise up to the next chapter. He had a good time in being the powerful savior to his loved ones, now it's time for him to be the model for his little prodigies. No matter what new challenges would be coming soon, he would always be there to face it, this time along with his new family. This was his story. this was the first tale of Shard Vine.

THE END

Author's Note

There you have it, everypony. It's over. The first part of Shard Vine's Saga came to a close. Thank you all those who read this, despite the lack of perfectness in grammar and idea. A sequel will be coming soon. It might take time since I'd done a story that I'm very proud of. Again, thank you guys! :pinkiesmile:

{ Act 1 Beginning } Reflection of the past : Companions

Feeling the cool breeze upon his coat as he walked through the plain of nothingness, aimlessly looking at the sky as he went on further. Finding a comfortable spot he laid down taking in the surrounding area. He began to look inward, feeling and reflecting on his past that had transpired over the past years. He could only reflect upon his past that left the aching void in his heart, taking one big breath, he recall the times long since passed.

Remembering the day when they went to high school, everything changed. The time that he betrayed his own relative, as such betraying his one true origin making him feel overcome with grief, there was a time where he had enjoyed his short moments with a certain filly who truly liked him right from the start, the years he had with her he wouldn't give up for all the bits in Equestria.

They shared each others home, their hopes, fears, and love. Now all gone as he felt time crumble into dust as he remembered the day that happened three years ago. When they went to high school, she fell in love with another young stallion, her thoughts constantly on him. He as her friend became to fall into the background of her life. The feeling of sadness and self worth encroched on him like the pegasus clouds warning a heavy rain. He then came to a decision that in order for himself to move on, he must set out all while telling himself.

‘I do this to make her happy always, I’m sure she will always be…’

He packed up his saddle bags and moved out from the house without any notice, he ventured to the one place that he could feel at peace with the possibility of finding his happiness: His hometown. Trotting his way further into the forest for a length of time, when he reached his destination he looked upon the town town of his upbringing, still simple, quiet, and rugged. He walked straight to the tavern he knew, that could be his home, walking inside he looked for the owner. Seeing a burly brown stallion behind the bar he approached him placing his bits on the counter,

“What’s for these bits for? You planned to stay here, young lad?” the owner asked, only to receive a nod in response.

“Do you have any jobs that I can work for every weekend?” he asked,

“Well I do have a job which requires guts and courage. Here.” He showed to him lots of papers with bounties, either killing or capturing criminals with fair rewards.

“These papers were given last week and new ones come every monday, if you ever complete these, proceed back here so I will give you bits for each convict you bring in.”

“Thanks, I’ll pay my rent fee every month,” he replied.

He went upstairs to the room and settle in. There was not much to it, but worth enough for a living. He got what he needed to live, room, food, and work. He placed down his saddle bag and took out his most cherished items which held special memories for him. Firstly is a mug, four and half years ago, he competed against Big Mac in a one night showdown, he wasn’t really fond of drinking things that are quite strong, but he really had to do it for fun, he won in the competition, but paid for it with a lengthy hangover. Second is a ribbon for the time he won in a competition against his father for the first time. Lastly, a picture of him and her when they were still young, the same year when he moved to Ponyville then lived with the family. He shed a tear at picture then wiped it away as he brought out a sigh in hoping that she would be happy.

After an hour, he noticed something in the sky, something that he could not tell since it was so far high, but as it got closer, it turned out to be a carriage with two royal guards, he wondered why they were approaching the tavern, could it be Princess Celestia wanted somepony? If so, then for what reason? He couldn’t think an answer so he decided to lay it low for a while till after a few moments there was a knock at his door. One of the guards said to him…

“Shard, come with us.” the guard ordered.

“Am I in trouble or something? Cause I wanna know why she needs me?”

“You will know when you see her. Now get in at the carriage so we can bring you there.” He didn’t bother to ask any more questions so he went with the guards to the carriage and they flew off. Shard was still confused, but he could care less about it since he will get the answers when he was to get there meeting the princess face to face. He had this feeling of trepidation since after what happened before after the invasion where he woke up in the hospital. What he only remembered were the words from the princess ‘A demon, yet a great ally to us’ and ‘A danger to them, but not responsible for any damage did’. The part where he’s not responsible for the destruction, he could tell that it was his responsibility since he is just like his cousin.

When they got there to Canterlot castle, the guards escorted him in the direction to where he was ordered, he never asked a question as he walked down the path that they had preset for him. It was a long hallway, but he didn’t complain about it as he continued to walk admiring the tapestry and history on the walls. After a while, they stopped at a large door, surely he could just say something like ‘amazing’ or ‘awesome’, but of course, he would not, not in a formal castle. As the door opened, he saw a white mare with a sun cutie mark, he knew it was Celestia by her reagle air about her then beside her undoubtedly her sister Luna with a crescent moon cutie mark. He walked straight as he looked at the battalion royal guards, really lots and lots of them. As he was stopped walking in the middle, he took a bowed and waited for her to ask him to rise. Princess Celestia walked straight to him and raised his head up with her hoof.

“There is no need to have that kind of a bow, Eter."

“Sorry, princess. I’m no longer called by that name, I want to be called as Shard Vine or Shard if you want,” he replied with lines of sweat still running down at his head.”

“I see. Well then, Shard. Do you know why I called you to be here?”

“Uh… Could it be because you want me to join with my cousin at the dungeon?”

Princess Celestia gave out a light hearted laugh.

“No. I called you because I had a talk with your cousin yesterday.”

“What for?” he said defensively.

“He told me that after you defeated him, he sensed that the tribe will send out an invasion soon. We are not sure if this true, but if it is, then we truly need somepony who can stop them,” she said with a serious tone.

“How does this involve me?” he asked with an uncertain look.

“Aside that you are part blood of the draconequus, they also planned to capture you to make you serve their Master.” she said looked down on him.

Shard was speechless, he could not even say the next thing that formed in his mind, just thinking of what would happen if he would end up in serving with the wrong side was terrible to imagine. Princess Celestia calmed him down by placing her hoof at his head.

“Do not worry, we are here to make sure nothing will happen to you, but we are not that strong as them. We will have you in training to make you more resilient against them.” she said matter of factly.

“Princess.” he looked slightly angry

“Yes?”

“Such a difficult thing I will do, I don’t think I can just handle alone” he was angry that such a responsibility was thrust upon him.

“Worry not, Shard. I assigned somepony to be your partner, though, she is not here in the moment, but later, I will tell her to meet up with you. For now, you will stay at your new quarters, the guard will show where it is.” she said dismissively.

After that, he walked out of the area and followed the guard behind him. After being escorted to his quarters, Shard went inside only to see two beds on the opposite sides. Could it be the other one is for his partner? Only time will tell as he went to bed, waiting for his ‘partner’.
Three hours later…

Shard woke up, looking out the window at the sunset. He got out of bed and walked outside onto the terrace to get some fresh air and to look at the view. While looking at the sunset, he felt somepony was watching him somepony behind his back, he turned around to see that shocked him so much. It was a pony with a black mane, wings that were not like any normal pegasus, her ears were puffy, and the eyes were a light brown with slits that looked like a cats. He never knew this one, but at the look at her teeth revealed two very sharped ones, really scared the buck out of him.

‘This could only mean one thing…’ he thought to himself as the creature waved out her hoof at him.

“Hi there. I’m Ve-“ before she could even finishing her words, the teenaged colt jumped high then screamed.

“AHHHHHH!!!! A BAT PONY!!!” he screamed with his eyes widened as he stumbled back over the ledge.

Shard was in free fall look up at the orange sky. The bat pony immediately flew over the railing diving after him quickly grabbing him with her hooves opening her wings slowing his descent considerably before landing on the ground. Shards knees were not fit to hold him up that moment. Rolling here eyes, she put out a hoof to help him get up, to which he accepted it. He scratched his head and said while looking down at the ground…

“I… I’m sorry I flipped out on you like that. I didn’t thought you would b-“ his sentence was cut off as the bat pony lifted his head up with her wings.

“It’s alright, I never got a good chance to befriend a normal pony anyway,” she said with a smile.

“Anyways, my name is Venang. What’s yours?”

“The name is Shard Vine, but you can call me Shard.”

“Okay. So, Shard… did the princess tell you already?”

“What? What do you mean?” he asked with a confused face.

“Oh, well in that case, I’ll tell you then. I’m your partner,” she said

She was met with silence was only thing happened next.

“Shard, are you alright?”

“Yeah, it’s just that I never thought I would have a bat pony companion,” he replied as he tried not to stare at her.

“Hehe, I feel the same way,” she giggled.

“So, Venang, want to go already to our quarters? We can talk more there privately.”

“Yeah, let’s go,” she said as she joined with him walking while her one side wing was placed at the back of his neck.

Shard noticed it, but he didn’t protest.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

Next chapter coming soon...

Revealing... ( Part 1 )

In an unknown island, a hooded mare was having a conversation with different hybrid beings. Discussing something about the duo as they looked to a projected screen that showed the previous battles the children fought.

"Their powers are quite formidable," the bull-griffon remarked.

"The colt has such power on dark magic," the pony-snake pointed.

"That thestral shows promises to him by her lethal flame affinity," the bear-bull admitted.

"They are quite strong, but they need more to achieve further victory," the bull-pony declared.

"Agreed," the hooded mare nodded, "We must decide of what they should do next."

A bull-pony raised his hoof.

"Yes? Do you have a suggestion?" the hooded mare asked.

"I suggest that we bring them here and lend them some of our powers," the bull-griffon explained.

The others looked at him with suprised looks.

"Are you serious?" the pony-snake asked.

"You realize that there will be consequences if we ever give them our abilities," the pony-bear stated.

"Especially the colt," the pony-griffon cringed, "If we ever give him another dark magic, he could lose his control and be overwhelmed."

"Are you saying that we have to give our powers to the foals, especially to my son?" the hooded mare gasped.

"We only have to share with them our powers so they would have enough strength to reach the final stage of their abilities," the bull-griffon declared, "And because time is of the essence here as the enemy will begin their attack in two days. Our only hope is the children to become stronger."

"I see," the bull-pony remarked, "This plan may punish us by our ancestors for such act, but it would be our only chance to be victorious."

"I doubt that this will work," the bear-bull shook his head, "But we have little time now, so I will have to agree."

"I too agree to his plan. I could give that filly a thing or two on advanced flame magic," the pony-snake chuckled.

"Do not push your limits, Neezra," the hooded mare warned.

"Oh leave me be, you Wretched Fiend," the pony-snake smirked.

"So all of you agree to this plan?" the bull-pony asked.

They all nodded as their silent response.

"Then it is settled," the bull-pony announced, "We send them here as share with them our magic to be prepared for the battle."

"I will go to bring them here," the pony-snake declared.

"Very well, do not attack them, but you can disarm their weapons if necessary," the bull-pony nodded.

At that, the creature vanished in an instant, leaving just a trail of mist, but showed no direction.

"I can't think of any place to go next," Shard sighed.

"Well, we can try this one," Venang pointed at a specific location in the map.

"Forgotten Peak?" Shard frowned, "I don't it's a good idea, Venang."

"Why, afraid of seeing a big eagle?" Venang smirked.

"Well, I can hybrids, griffons and many other flying beings," Shard shrugged, "But if it's a big one, then I would seriously run like a chicken."

"You are such a dope sometimes," Venang giggled as she kissed him on the cheek, "If you say so, then let's try another."

"This island here called Shadow Hide," Shard pointed.

"That's a strange name," Venang frowned.

"Yeah, it was said to be cursed due to foul dark magic in the area. It was also a place for necromancers," Shard stated.

"Indeed it is.."

The two flinched by the sound of the voice. They looked up to see a white mist above them. It descended down, revealing to be a mare who had a reptilian skin, curly mane, a long tail that looked like a snake's, and a cutie mark in a form of a snake head with two fangs at its mouth. The duo readied their respective elemental swords as they feared that she was like the others who would attack them.

"I seek no harm to you two," the pony-snake declared.

"Why should we believe you," Venang growled.

"Because I am here to bring you and your friend her somewhere to give you two an offering," she stated.

"Why the heck should we trust you?" Shard glared.

"Because I am in touch with your mother, Shard Vine," the hybrid mare smirked.

Hearing that comment, the colt's eyes grew wide as he was shocked by what she said.

"She's still alive?" Shard asked.

"Yes, if you will let me take you and your lover here to the island of where she is currently at the moment, we would be willing to share with you our strength and you can be reunited with your parent," she smiled.

The foals looked at each other for a moment.

"Should we trust this fellow, Venang?" Shard asked.

"If what she said is true, then we should take this opportunity to become even more powerful and you can see your mother again," Venang replied.

"We should delay our crusade for the time being," Venang added.

"Okay, let's do it," Shard nodded.

They looked back the hybrid who was still smirking at them.

"Alright, we'll take your offer," the duo said in unison.

"Excellent, I will take you there in an instant.."

The pony-snake hybrid cast a fog around them as their view was obstructed completely by the mist. After a brief moment, they could now see where they were as the fog dissipated. They looked around to see they're in a room that had strange vines at every walls as if they were like decorations. They looked in front to see different hybrids standing in front of them, even the mysterious mare they fought not long ago. The bull-pony took a step forward as he was the first to break the silence.

"Greetings, children, welcome to Shadow Hide!" he bellowed.

"Who are you?" Shard asked.

"One of your kin, young colt. We are different from the ones you faced before. We only seek peace to our tribe," the bull-pony replied happily.

"Why are we here?" Venang asked.

"To put it simple, we want you foals to have some of our power since the war will begin in just two days," the bull-pony declared.

"What? Two days?!" the duo shouted in unison.

"Yes," the pony-snake frowned, "Which is why we will share with you our abilities for you to reach to your advanced level."

"Wait, what about my mother?" Shard begged impatiently.

"After sharing with you our powers, we will reveal her to you, young colt," the bear-bull declared.

"Fine, let's this over with," Shard sighed.

The duo stood where they were as the hybrids, even the hooded mare fired their beams at them. The two felt like they were hit by a large rock as they felt their muscles increasing, even their minds. After a while, the sensed the beams stopped hitting them, signaling that it was already done.

"I don't feel anything," Shard frowned.

"Me too, just nothing," Venang frowned.

Shard looked at her, gasped by what he saw.

"What?" Venang asked.

"You might want to look at your own reflection here," the pony-snake conjured a mirror in front of the thestral.

Venang looked at it, only to be suprised by her new appearance. Her ears became even more tufted, her wings became as sharped as a blade, her coat turned to gray, her mane and tail became black with black lines, and her eyes became light blue. She noticed her eyes no longer like a thestral's that were slit, instead, they became like a regular pony's.

"I like this, you agree" Venang smiled.

"Yeah, looks good on you," Shard nodded.

"It seems you're still in the same state," Venang pointed.

"I was hoping to have new powers and all," Shard admitted.

"You will find out soon," the bull-pony declared,

"When you use your powers against your enemies, you will sense your true strength," the pony-griffon smiled.

"Now, I suppose you want to see her?" the bull-pony asked.

"Yes, right now," Shard growled.

"And please do it quick," Venang glared, "He could unleash his pure hate when being tested."

"Of course, reveal yourself to him, Lucra," the bull-griffon encouraged.

The hooded mare nodded as she removed her cloak, revealing her true appearance. She had the same spiky mane like him, even in color, her coat was also in the same color as him, her tail was flat, and her cutie mark was a crystal with swirling traces of dark vines around it. She bore a smile that Shard knew when he was still eight years old.

"It's been a long time, my son," Lucra smiled.

"Y-you.. Mama," Shard gasped.

TO BE CONTINUED

Author's Note

Next chapter in progress..