Chapters Sombra grumbled and watched the night black Gryphon pack her things. He had conflicting emotions about the mage, on one hoof she was the being who trapped him in that weakened form. on the other hoof, she was very caring and mothering towards him. Her nurturing persona was both infuriating and comforting. She was a better mother that his own mother had been. And the Chocolate! whenever he was scared or hurt she gave him chocolate! When she went into town she brought him treats for being a good little colt. He could forgive all her transgressions if he was taught the secrets the Pink Mare used on those delicacies.
She smiled at him. "Hey, Sombra!" She set the compass into her saddlebag. "How are you feeling?"
"Fine, just like the last fifty times you asked." He mumbled. He felt something smooth rub against the top of his head. He looked up and saw the Gryphon Hen rubbing her beak on his head. She looked at him with a warm undrstanding gaze that you would expect from an experienced mother. The ends of her beak turned up into a smile. "Do you have to go?" He cursed himself mentally. She was just so caring, it made him want to bare his soul and tell her his darkest secrets.
She hugged him lightly. "Yeah, I do. Tell you what"- She lifted him and set him on her back -"Why don't I take you into town? I'll let you watch me train Discord."
His ears perked up enthusiastically. "And watch the lord of Chaos have his plot handed to him by a mere mortal? How could I resist?"
She bopped his nose. "Language, one does not say 'Plot' ,in the context you used it, in polite company." She spread her wings slightly, not quite to their full extent, and trotted merrily to the balcony. "We say Flank." She took off with a mighty flap of her wings.
Wisdom, as the Gryphon was called, was a sculpture of feline elegance. She was Strong, fast and clever. Sombra had quickly discovered her weaknesses however and was waiting for the perfect chance to use them against her. While she was fast, she also hesitated to strike deadly blows. While she was Strong she also was emotionally vulnerable, she would care for anything that showed the faintest sign of weakness.
She was willing to risk her own life to defend ponies who she cared about, usually using underhanded deceit to do so. If a Pony close to her betrayed her, it could destroy her. He didn't know why her emotions were so weak but he was positive it could be used against her.
But first, He thought as he snuggled deeper into the Hen's fur, I'm going to enjoy watching her fight against an ancient Deity who needs some serious psychological help.
Sombra observed with rapt attention, The two beings before him were simply captivating. They both had opted o take a Bipedal stance and were trapped in a violent dance. Wisdom's movement were smooth and graceful, like a well choreographed dance. Discord's movements were, for lack of a better word, chaotic. He had a magic restraining ring on so he couldn't teleport, but he was still random and bizzare.
Wisdom seemed very calm about the whole situation, the fight was so simple to her, like she expected every movement.
Discord snapped his tail out to strike her side. Wisdom's claw raced to meet it. She grabbed his tail with both hands and swung him around. He cried out in fear as they spun. She brought the Chaos god down and slammed him against the earth. She let out a loud breath and plopped down onto the ground. "Lasted longer this time. Ya been practicing?"
"That's what she said, And yes." He announced proudly. "Luna heard about our fights and know wants me to train with her Lunar Guard."
"That's great!" She hugged him. "Just don't forget your workouts with AJ and RD."
He huffed. "Do I have to?" The Colt was perplexed at how easily the two
She smiled at him. "Yes. Oh hey, Scoots!"
Sombra turned, fully expecting to see another commoner, and saw something that nearly blew his mind. A bright orange Pegasus Filly flew towards them, her fuchsia mane billowing in the wind. Her Cutie mark was a half filled map with a quill, but that wasn't what was so amazing about her. She was flying- Without flapping her wings! The were outstretched at either side of her body but made no movement.
She landed next to Wisdom, admiration gushing from every pore. "Hey Wisdom! I've been practicing."
"Yeah you have! Soon you and RD can practice flying, Magic free." Wisdom ruffled her hair.
The filly pouted. "But it's so hard!"
"You can't depend on magic for everything, there are times when one needs to use finesse." She struck a pose.
"How..wha.. Huh?" Sombra was at a loss for words, this magic was foreign to him. Pegasus Flight without Flight? Does not compute.
"Uhhh... Wisdom? I think I broke Sombra."
The four were sitting in a booth at Sugarcube Corner. Sombra, however, had still not recovered from his shock. There was a feint stream of smoke pouring out of his ears. Pinkie pie bounced over to the table merrily. "Hi Discord, Hi Sombra, Hi Scootaloo, Hi Wisdom. What can I get for you?"
"Carrot cake." Discord announced. Mr. Cake sneezed behind the counter. Discord snickered.
Wisdom rolled her eyes at him and Smiled. "Srawberry shortcake for Scoots, Chocolate milkshake for Sombra, and a sundae for me."
"Okie dokie loki!" She bounced back behind the counter
Scootaloo waved a hoof in front of the colt. "Is he alright?"
"Maybe, wave some chocolate in his face and he'll snap right back."
Sombra's ears perked up. "Someone say Chocolate?"
"Yes indeedy!" The Pink Mare rose up from under the table carrying the treats they ordered. "Here you go!" She deposited each snack in front of their consumer. "That'll be six bits please." Discord snapped his talons and six bits appeared to be caught by Pinkie Pie. "Have a nice day, if you need anything- just say my name and I'm there!" She bounced off again.
Sombra attacked the chocolate milkshake with gusto. Scoots at her cake in a similar manner. Discord and Wisdom shared knowing looks before tucking into their own delicacies.
After they all finished they went their seprate ways, Scoots flying off energetically towards the clubhouse, Discord teleporting off to fluttershy's cottage, and Wisdom walking next to Sombra on their way home. It was silent except for Wisdom greeting strangers as they passed.
"So um," Sombra began. "That magic that Scootaloo was doing..."
"You need wings to do it."
"Yeah but, if you have wings you don't really need to do it."
Wisdom sighed, a sad look plastered across her face. "Nopony ever taught her how to fly, besides it helps her stretch he magical muscle. I teach her the magic behind Pegasus flight and Rainbow Dash teaches her the Physical side. It's a deal we made."
"Sounds neat." He pushed for more information. "So, how does it work?
"Can't tell you. Trade secret. And I happen to know you plan on turning on me."
Sombra stopped, falling behind a few steps. "Whatever do you mean?" He plastered a smile that he hoped looked innocent.
Wisdom's eyes no longer held the happy carefree look. now they only held sadness and disappointment. "Sombra, Are you aware of my Elemental theory?"
He shook his head. A new chance to bug her for more information. Wisdom continued. "The closer a corrupted individual spends with an Element of harmony, the more they begin to express that trait. For example, Discord spending more time with Applejack will lead to him being more honest, the more time he spends with Rainbow Dash the more loyal he'll become." Her eyes narrowed to slits. "You haven't even met them, and I'm sure if you ever did you'll burn to a crisp."
Sombra felt a pang in his chest. Guilt. This shocked him, guilt was one of the many emotions he had no need for. he choked on his next words. "I-I'm s-s-sorry." He felt something warm cover him. he looked up to see Wisdom had draped a wing over his shoulders. The kind look had returned.
She nuzzled him. "Let's go home."
The three fillies dragged the ex-tyrant out of the bakery by his tail and loaded him into a wagon attached to a scooter. Briefly, a helmet obscured Sombra's vision and he felt the wagon lurch. Pushing the helmet out of his eyes he saw Scoots open her wings and propel them forward. He yelped and fell back. "Sorry."
The wagon and it's occupants barreled through the small town at an incredible speed. Sombra watched the scenery pass by, surprised by the friendly waves and kind looks he got from the peasants. It was almost as if they didn't know who he was. He turned to the Earth pony, Applebloom. "You there, why does no pony cower in fear!?"
She gave him a confused look. "Uhh... Cuz' ya ain't that scary?"
"Yeah!" Sweetie Belle said. "I mean, We've seen some scary stuff."
"Like Timberwolves!" Scootaloo said
"And Ursa's" Applebloom added
"And Nightmare Moon!"
"And Discord!"
"Somepony say my name?" There was a loud pop and a Draconequus colt sat in the wagon, rubbing his claw and paw together. "Hello Sombra!" He grinned madly. "I see you've met Wisdom's Favorite Fillies."
"Hi Discord, We're heading to Sweet Apple Acres now. Applejack says you've been avoiding her." Sweetie belle announced
The Draconequus paled. "oh no."
Sombra chuckled evilly, as was his nature. "Might as well face the music, Discord. Wisdom's going to know you were slacking off."
"Quiet you," A zipper appeared on Sombra's mouth. "I've been meaning to, but I never seem to have the time."
"Ya hav' time ta have tea parties with Fluttershy!" Applebloom said. another zipper appeared on her mouth.
"Yes well..." he blushed. "That's different."
Scootaloo laughed. "Discord and Fluttershy, sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-G!!" the rest was muffled.
Sombra gripped the zipper with his magic and unzipped it. "Fluttershy wouldn't like to know you've been doing this."
Discord's eyes widened and all the zippers disappeared and cotton candy appeared in their arms. "Please don't tell her."
"Our silence can't be bought!" Scootaloo proclaimed.
"I'll get you a new scooter."
"We accept your apology." Sombra stifled a giggle at the orange Pegasus.
Discord nodded. "And to answer your question, Sombra, It's because Dear Princess Twilight told Everypony that you were some distant relative come to stay for a few months." he examined his talons. "You have to go by Shady Dusk or something like that."
"Dawn Shadow." Applebloom glared at Discord. "We're gonna be at Sweet Apple Acres in a coupla minutes."
Discord yelped. "Well, see ya. Scoots, stop the scooter."
The Scooter jerked right sharply, the occupants holding on to prevent being thrown out. Sombra was not aware of this and was flung several feet into the air. he landed in a large puddle of mud, left over from the storm the day before. As he attempted to rise out of the mud and yell at the three fillies in the wagon, he heard somepony laughing at him.
"Oh look, the blank flank is stuck in the mud."
"Y'all better leave him alone, Diamond." He felt gentle hooves pull him away from the puddle. "You alright?"
"I'm fine." He looked at Applebloom and began to rise to his hooves. "It's nothing I can't handle..."
"No, you stay here." Applebloom placed a hoof on his back and pushed him back into a seated position. "Ah'm not about to let yerself git inta trouble with Diamond. Ah'll handle her." Applebloom trotted over to the pink filly.
"Oooh," Discord plopped down next to Sombra. "Dis Gonna be good."
Sweetiebelle and Scootaloo also took their places next to them. Sombra looked at both of them. "Aren't you going to go help your friend?"
"Nah," Scootaloo stretched out. "Applebloom is the best Fighter in Wisdom's class. She'l handle it."
"Wisdom taught us how make them throw the first punch so that you're in the right." Sweetiebelle said. "our sisters wanted us to learn self defense..."
The Elements of harmony sat down with the CMC. Applejack was the first to speak. "Girls, We think it's best if y'all take some classes to protect yerselves."
Twilight cleared her throat. "After last weeks... incident." shudders ran through the room. "With Tirek. We asked Wisdom to teach you all how to fight."
Rarity tossed her mane. "She told us that she was trained by masters and that it'd be best for if you get 'caught in the crossfire' as it were."
Rainbow dash zoomed around the room. "It's going to be So AWESOME. she's gonna teach you these awesome kicks and punches and it'll be like you're being trained by some ancient kung fu master." she struck a pose. Wisdom, who had just entered the room, poked her and she fell over.
"I think we should start with quadrupedal fighting stances before we move on to bipedal. I want you to be able to balance properly."
Rarity cleared her throat. "you'll make sure they don't get filthy. Won't you?"
"Getting dirty happens. I just wish you'd let me teach the rest of you."
"Sorry Sugercube, we just got alot of work. to deal with."
"We have Crusadin' to do!" Applebloom Protested.
Wisdom smirked. "Well, maybe you'll get you're Cutie Marks in gryphon Fighting Styles."
The three fillies' faces lit up.
"...And well, she kept teaching us until she had to go do that royal explorer thing. She said we should keep practicing until she got back."
The two Earth Pony Fillies were in the midst of a heated argument over something ridiculous. "Country bumpkin!"
"Spoiled Brat!"
"Filthy farmer!"
"Rich Bitch!"
"Mudpony!"
"Yer a Earth pony Too, ya Snot nosed pig!"
"She also taught us a ton of swear words." Scootaloo clapped her hooves together.
"Gah," the Pink filly struck Applebloom across the muzzle. Applebloom barely registered it. she dug her front hooves into the ground and swung her back hooves at the pink filly's muzzle. it connected with a loud crack and sent Diamond stumbling back. Applebloom wiped a few droplets of blood from her muzzle. "Hit me again, see what happens."
Diamond roared in rage and charged. Applebloom jumped out of the way right before she made contatct. Diamond slid to a stop and turned around. "You're dead Blank Flank." The pink Filly barely registered the fact that adults were beginning to surround them. She charged again, this time Applebloom went limp and let herself be flung back. She rolled to her hooves and took a stance. Appleblooms eyes scanned her opponent, looking for the weaknesses.
Applebloom was far stronger than her opponent and more experienced in terms of combat. But Diamond was angry. Wisdom always said that an Angry opponent was both good and bad. Bad because the mind would ignore pain in favor of wanting to win. good because it clouded the judgement.
Applebloom circled her opponent, not letting her eyes leave the Earth pony. Wisdom explained the weaknesses of each Tribe, Unicorns could have their magic distrupted by tapping the horn. Pegasi had sensitive wings and hollow bones. Earth ponies were earthbound and most weren't aware of how to use Earth Magic.
She charged and struck Diamonds legs out from under her. Applebloom pushed Diamond's muzzle into the dirt and ripped off her Tiara. "You ain't nuthin. this pretty Tiara ain't gonna keep ya safe. yer money is all you are. yer just a shallow brat, who isn't worth the air she breathes." She crushed the Tiara and stomped over to her friends.
Sombra couldn't help but stare in amazement, Applebloom had put the other filly in her place with ease, barely even batting an eye. Cold and merciless, a born soldier.
Author's Note
I hope you like Sombra's new name. oh and Applebloom kicks plot!
Applebloom reflected on her actions as the wagon, now light one draconequus, rattled down the path toward Sweet Apple acres. She thought maybe she went a little too far. After all Wisdom established strict rules about what to do in a fight. Never get distracted, give everything you got, incapacitate don't kill. the most important rule was respect. If you didn't treat your opponent with respect then you had no honor and Gryphons like Wisdom had really high views on honor. Applebloom wouldn't admit it out loud but she viewed Wisdom as highly as Scootaloo viewed Rainbow Dash.
Scootaloo skidded to a stop in front of the club house and the Fillies began dragging Sombra up the ramp. "Gah! this is very undignified!" He protested.
"Wisdom says being undignified is the best part of being a foal." Sweetie Belle chirped happily.
"Wisdom this, Wisdom that." He mocked. "You practically worship that filthy excuse for a sentient creature." The minute those words tumbled out of his mouth he realized his mistake. If they did, in fact, he just insulted their mentor who taught them to kill somepony in three seconds flat.
Luckily, or unluckily depending on who you ask, only Applebloom seemed offended. "What you just say 'bout ma' mentor?"
She stood inches away from his muzzle. He gulped. Now was the point where Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle learned just what an Idiot Sombra was. "I said she was filthy animal that wasn't fit to live among civilized ponies. A lot like you mud ponies..."
The earth rumbled beneath his hooves and he immediately shut his mouth. Silently watching his life flash before his eyes as he watched the Earth pony began to glow from raw earth borne magics. Applebloom's hooves released small amounts of magic that manifested as sparks of lightning.
Scootaloo Reacted before any blood could be spilled. "Hey Applebloom! Look! there's a new pony in town with a fancy cutie mark!" unfortunately that did not work. A pillar of stone shot out of the ground and scrapped Sombra in the side. "Oh Horseapples, Run, Sombra, Ruuuun!" Scootaloo Swung her wing in a circular motion, causing a dome of air to form around Applebloom.
Sombra scrambled off as quickly as his stubby Unicorn legs could carry him.
It was a peaceful day in Ponyville. the Sun was Shining, The birds were singing, and the foals were chasing each other. Well that last part was probably not so peaceful. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
The citizens of ponyville watched the new colt in town dash through town screaming his lungs out. After he passed he was quickly followed by Applebloom, co-founder of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie pie watched the spectacle from above, the Earth pony mare held aloft by a bundle of balloons. She sighed. "Ahhh, young love."
Rainbow facehoofed. "No Pinkie, she's trying to kill him."
"Nahh, The Writer wouldn't let that happen."
Gah! Pinkie! you're messing with the flow of the story!
"Am not!"
Are too!
"Am not!"
"Am not!"
Are too!
"Am not!" She shrieked back, eliciting stares from passerby's. They simply shrugged and continued on with their business. "Stop narrating while I'm talking to you!"
"Pinkie, who are you talking to?" Rainbow asked.
"The narrator." she pointed a hoof up at the sky. "Don't make me come up there!"
Look, our argument if taking time away from the chase scene! I'm sorry but I have to cut this short.
"Don't you dare cut me...!"
"...I'm gonna die! ... Again!" Sombra said between pants. he saw the Castle in the Distance and began to push himself harder. "SANCTUARY!!" He yelled, loud enough to put the Royal Canterlot Voice to shame. The door opened slightly to reveal a dazed and confused Alicorn.
"Sombra, what...?"
"Can'ttalknowthere'saninsanefillytryingtokillmeandIneedhelpand...HIDE ME!" He dived behind her.
Applebloom skidded to a stop in front of Twilight. "Let Me Through, imma kill 'im!"
Before the filly could advance any further Twilight put a hoof out to stop her. "Whoa, whoa, whoa. Calm down there. There's no reason to resort to violence."
"But he started it!" She exclaimed, later realizing how foalish she sounded.
"I highly doubt he threw the first punch." Sombra stuck out his tongue at her. "But I don't doubt he used quite a bit of lies and manipulation."
"Hey!"
"He started telling lies about Wisdom being an Animal and Unfit to be around Ponies!"
"And that's his opinion. That doesn't change the fact that Wisdom is a highly intelligent, kind and brave friend and teacher. What he said was his opinion." Applebloom looked down at the ground in shame. Sombra was shocked that Twilight had talked her down so easily. Perhaps he could learn something from her. "He and Wisdom will settle this when she gets back in a year. Now run along, you're missing Crusading time with your friends."
She smiled. "Okay Twilight." She shot Sombra a glare before trotting off.
Regardless he sighed with relief and collapsed from exhaustion. Twilight sighed and picked him up in her magic, carrying him back to his room. "When you wake up we're going to have a long talk."
Author's Note
*Quietly slips this chapter in here so readers won't get pissed that I'm not updating* Sorry, Fate's a Funny thing is already several months ahead of this one time wise, so you can expect quite a few updates for this in the future. Also, being able to kill a mare with one hoof tied behind her back will actually become a sort of running gag through the story.
Up next: Twilight has a Heart to heart with Sombra and Pinkie and I settle our argument.
Sombra sucked his hoof absently. Twilight lounged in the corner reading Wisdom's spell journal. Despite living in a world without magic for most of her life, Wisdom proved very adept at forming spells and casting them. She would study for days without sleep just to perfect them. There were a few times when she and the girls needed to stage interventions to get her to sleep. There was one time when the girls, CMC, and Discord all piled on top of her to hold her down while Twilight cast a Sleep Spell. when she woke up she spent the next few hours writing down ideas she had in her sleep before grabbing a snack and falling asleep on top of a bookshelf.
Twilight had found an interesting spell that involved an incredible amount of magic that Wisdom didn't possess. The foot note at the bottom said, 'Beware, spell not tested, don't use. That means you Twi.' She looked over at Sombra. "I could spare some time." Her horn began to glow as she began to cast the spell. While weaving the spell nexus she noticed several things. One, it was a time spell and two, Wisdom had missed several possible shortcuts. quickly amending the spell she cast it and opened her eyes.
Twilight noticed she was deep in the Everfree forest. She could hear the sounds of various creatures moving through the brush. There were no signs to show she had traveled through time. "Well, that was a bust." She began to form a teleportation spell to go back to the castle. A shrill scream pierced the relative silence of the forest. Twilight swung around and bolted towards the sound.
Her horn glowed as she prepared another spell to protect who ever was in the forest. She burst into a clearing. she saw all three of the CMC using their magic to fend off a pack of Timberwolves. Sombra was with them but his horn only sparked and fizzed, not letting him cast any spells. He looked around helplessly. "Help!"
Applebloom slammed her hooves down and a block of stone shot out of the ground and knocked a Timberwolf away from him. "Who's idea was it to practice magic in the Everfree?" She snapped.
"I thought it would be good practice!" Scootaloo yelled over the vortex of air surrounding her that tore Timberwolves to shreds when they came too close. "I think Discord called it Level grinding?"
Twilight cast her spell at a large cluster of wolves. It passed through them harmlessly. "Oh that's not good." She muttered. The edges of her vision started to fade. "Nononononono!" She looked around. "No!"
Suddenly she was back in Sombra's room. He groaned and glared at her. "If you wanted to talk, you could have woken me in a different way from screaming in my ear" he idly picked his ear with a hoof. "Let me guess, you're going to lecture me about the magic of Friendship." He rolled his eyes.
"No." She coughed and settled herself. "That's not it." She levitated the journal in front of her. "This is Wisdom's study journal, it contains all her theories and spells." She slipped it into a pocket dimension. "She said that you would be allowed to read it after you met certain criteria. This," She pulled out a second journal about Wisdom's studies about emotions and moral code. "Is the journal she asked me to give you in case you did something to upset the CMC. It also comes with several threatening letters that I'll hold off on for now." She coughed. "Because of reasons."
He paled. "That! She wants me to read that!"
She looked. "It's a reasonably sized book."
"It looks like you could bludgeon a fully grown dragon with it!" He pointed an accusative hoof at the book.
"Does not. It's only 12 hundred pages."
"If I go and apologize do I still have to read it?"
"... Maybe."
"I'M DOOMED!"
Are too!
"Am not!"
Are too!
"Am not!"
Are too!
"Am not!"
Are too!
"Am not!"
Are too!
"Am not!"
Are too!
"Am not!"
Are too, infinity!
"Infinity and one!"
Infinity infinity!
"Infinity infinity and one!"
You can't just add 'and one' to everything!
"Yeah well, infinity isn't a real number!"
is too!
"Is not!"
is too!
"Is not!"
"Pinkie, who are you talking too?" Mrs. Cake asked, looking around the corner. "And could you please stop? You're scaring the customers!"
Pinkie glanced around and noticed the terrified brown earth pony standing in front of her. "Oh hi, Time Turner!" She handed him a pastry and collected the bits. She paused. "She can see through walls! No Where is safe! Every mare for herself!" She zipped off leaving a streak of pink in her wake. "We're dooooooomed!" Time turner blinked and smoke started to pour out of his ears.
There was a light tapping on Sombra's window. he looked up and saw Scootaloo she waved timidly. he threw open the window and grabbed her by the shoulders. ""You have to help me! It's terrible! its' awful! It's worse than anything I ever did to the Crystal Empire!"
"What?" Scootaloo asked, now scared for her life.
"She's making me read Friendship Reports!" He fell over. "The horror!"
Scoot gasped and patted his back. "It's okay, happens to the best of us."
Author's Note
Sneek peak of a future chapter. The very distant future. TROLOLOL!!!
Don't forget to comment your opinions! I love hearing from you it's the best part of my day!
Apologies
Sombra caught the ball in his magic again. He hadn't left his room in days and had no plans to do so. Applebloom was probably out there and he had no intentions of dying again. He sighed and jumped off the bed and began pacing. He could apologize, but that would mean conforming to Wisdom's reformation. He wasn't that eager to leave the castle. Twilight didn't seem to want to force him to go out again but then again throwing books was a good way to keep eggheads away.
Then again, he could gain a powerful ally in the long run if he befriended the Earth pony and Pegasus. He wasn't sure about the Unicorn but it couldn't hurt to get her on his side. Maybe then he could get close to the Gryphon hen.
"Hey Sombra," He stiffened. "How's life?"
At the question he felt unbridled rage bubble up in him and spill over. The events of the past year were too much to hold back any more. He grabbed a book in his magic and flung it at the mirror. "I hate it!" He bucked the bed post before continuing. "First I'm defeated by a baby dragon and an idiot princess, then when I come back to wreak my horrible revenge I'm fooled by some Gryphon who turns me into a foal and then makes me wear humiliating outfits to fulfill a motherly urge by coddling me constantly, then I find that Pegasi and Earth ponies' can use magic in a far more potent form than Unicorns. Now you show up to rub it in my face." He finished and collapsed in a heap.
Wisdom watched him calmly, taking in his short rant with grace. "Are you done?"
Really? That's all she has to say? "Yeah" he mumbled.
"Well if I didn't know any better I'd think life was out to get you," She brushed some imaginary dust off her shoulder. "But I happen to know that's not the case. It seems like life has given you more than enough chances to get your plot in shape." She narrowed her eyes at him. "Three times, you died twice. I think whatever deity is in charge of this universe has a vested interest in you shaping up and learning the Magic of Friendship. so stop sulking and tell my what in tartarus is up with you and Applebloom."
Her words struck home and he flinched. "Well, you see I may have insulted you and your philosophies."
She stared at him for a few minutes before bursting out laughing. The large gryphon thrashed and fell over and out of view of the mirror. she crawled back to her seat still chuckling. "Ahh... wow."
"What's so funny?" He growled.
"J-just the idea of you insulting somepony. I bet you looked all adorable and fluffy and your cheeks got pink from raising your voice." She gasped. "I bet your voice started squeaking!"
He blushed. "you're not mad?"
"'course not, believe it or not you have the mind of a foal right now. Memories of being an adult sure but you lack maturity and the darkness that dwells in someponies hearts. sure there's a tiny seed, but that'll only grow if we nurture it, you're feeble and easy to mold." She grinned, "I may not have Fluttershy's kindness to reform you but I know a lot about child development, I was studying to be a teacher. You're a kid you do bad stuff, Twilight gave you a punishment and you learn from the experience... hopefully."
"Soooo... what do I do about Applebloom?"
"Apologise." Wisdom started to examine her talons. "Get her some tools or something, she likes that kind of stuff."
"WHAT!!!???" he exclaimed. "She tried to destroy me using Earth magic."
Wisdom perked up at that. "Wait, she did?" She chuckled. "That crazy kid. Hey, just do it, She'll forgive you like that." She snapped her talons. "Don't forget the tools." the Mirror went cloudy and then returned to it's previous form.
Sombra gulped. "Right, I can do this. It's just one pony, and it's not like I'll loose a limb or something." He trotted out of his room, unaware of the jinx he'd just placed on himself.
Author's Note
Ugh... finally I get to this chapter, This story is almost completely caught up with FaFT. I'd say about four more chapters until they're at the same point in time. Those of you reading both this is set during chapter, The Flock.
A shadowy figure swooped down on the castle past the tower where two very bored unicorns stood. The taller one was older and went unfazed by the shadowy figure. He was a light gray with a lime green mane and tail, hidden by the crystal guard armor. The shorter one was younger and was far to new to know what was happening. He also had a gray coat but his mane was black. The shorter one snapped at attention. "Did you see that?" His ears perked forward as he glanced around in surprise. the larger guard chuckled as the shorter one started to fidget. "Are we under attack?"
The large one shook his head. "Hardly. She does this to all the noobs."
Before the shorter stallion had a chance to respond a cloaked, dark figure flew directly at him pausing just short of knocking him down. He yelped and jumped backwards, causing him to knock off his own helmet. Piercing blue eyes watched him fumble for his spear, his magic fizzing out occasionally. Pale teeth made themselves known behind black lips. "Boo." The older guard burst out laughing as the dark pegasus pulled down her hood to reveal a long flowing golden mane and flight goggles. Her turquoise eyes flickered with delight. The mare giggled a bit at his predicament as the poor guard continued to try and pick up his dropped spear. "Hey Limestone, how long do you think until he realizes I'm not hostile."
The small guard blushed furiously and left the spear where it lied. "Err... Sorry."
The pegasus threw back her head and laughed. "What's your name kid?" she removed the cape to reveal powerful muscles that flexed and rippled under the night black coat. The feathers of her wings were well preened and her tail flicked anxiously.
The charcoal stallion kicked at the ground nervously. "Sombra."
The black pegasus moved past him confidently. "Well Sombra, I could use a drink, How about you?"
"uhh..."
Limestone interrupted. "We'd love one." he shot a glare at Sombra that made him shrink away in fear.
The pegasus delivered a swift kick to a stone in the wall. A compartment slid open and revealed a few glasses, and an assortment of alcoholic beverages. She swiftly pulled out the glasses and set them out. She poured a small amount of whiskey in each and held two out to the guards. "A toast, to the king, long may he live and rule." they downed the drink ans the pegasus started to pour another round.
Sombra scrapped together the courage to speak. "This may sound like a stupid question..."
the pegasus downed another drink and started to pour herself another. "There's no such thing as stupid questions."
"Who are you?"
The pegasus swirled her drink and smirked. "I have many names, you may call me Onyx... the Final Storm."
Sombra shot up in his bed. "Ah good you're awake." came a calm, measured voice. Sombra tried to light up his horn but felt a powerful resistance. "I wouldn't do that if i were you."
"Wh-who are you?" He said, trying and failing to sound confident.
There was a light chuckle. "I was a friend of your mother."
Sombra snorted. "My mother died over a thousand years ago."
"Let's just say... time has no power over me." The temperature in the room dropped considerably. "I am shadows that creep through the night, I am the fear that grips you when you are lost, I am the clock ticking away your final moments. Armies have trembled at my hooves, and Empires bend to my will. I can erase you in a blink of an eye, snuff out your pitiful existence from the universe, leaving nothing to remain. I am Thanatos, I... Am... Death!"
Sombra was unfazed. "You must be friends with Discord."
The room returned to it's normal temperature and a horn began to glow, banishing the darkness. The owner of said horn was a light gray Alicorn, with a whispy blue mane that seemed like a light breeze was constantly blowing through it. His eyes were silver with a silted pupil and he had a mischievous grin that betrayed a small bit of emotion. "Oh yes, We play poker every Sunday. Him and his sister. Well she died but she still manages to show up every few centuries."
"Are you here for a reason?" Sombra snapped.
Thanatos faked a gasp. "Of course I have a reason! Despite what Creatures think, death is neither cruel nor meaningless." The Alicorn of death settled into a small sofa that sat near Sombra's bed. "Each night I will show you a memory, it might be yours or somepony else's, but each one will hold a lesson for you. The one I just showed you has the Three ponies whose memories I will allow you to see. Each one you wronged in some way, and Each one meant something to you." Thanatos's grin vanished. "I am doing this so you will not squander the second chance I've given you. You may think you managed to cheat me twice but I let you live for a reason. I have plans for you that you have yet to complete." As he spoke, his mane began to move much quicker and started to rise around his ears. "You will Apologize to Applebloom by sunset tomorrow or I will show you the most horrific of you're friends memories. The memories that took me decades to scrub from their souls, even now, a thousand years later they bear the mark of your actions, to witness this memories would destroy the feeble body you've built and fracture your soul in ways that i may no be capable of mending. Is that clear?" At that last word his mane burst into a blue inferno of sorrow and pain. The walls froze over and there was the feint screaming of damned souls filling the room.
Sombra, too scared for words, Nodded in fear. the horrors disappeared and Thanatos's mane settled back down. "Good boy." He vanished.
Author's Note
I'm sorry for the wait, I was working on other projects.This blog post might help this chapter make a bit more sense. I wanted to give some background on Sombra that didn't involve long paragraphs of exposition.
Sombra gasped and panted as he traveled the long winding path to the large, barn-like house. he feebly raised a hoof to knock on the door, only for it to fly open and an Earth pony stallion to be tossed out. "An' Stay out!"
The door slammed again in Sombra's face. "This is most obviously a sign." He started to turn around but came face to face with Scootaloo. "Gah!" He jumped back tumbling off the porch and into an empty barrel. "What is with you pegasi and sneaking up on unsuspecting unicorns?!?"
Scootaloo shrugged. "Maybe we're just naturally sneaky." Sombra opened his mouth to argue but realized it was probably true. "Any way, Applebloom says that you can make it up to her by finding something she lost," Scootaloo helped him out of the barrel. She dragged him towards the edge of the farm and pointed at the thick expanse of trees. "in... The Everfree!" Out of nowhere dramatic music started to play.
Sombra jumped and looked everywhere. "What was that?"
Scootaloo giggled nervously. "Sweetie Belle and I spent an hour setting that up."
Sweetie Belle Popped her head out of the bushes. "Did we get him?"
"Yeah, We did! He was so scared!" The two giggled and Sombra scowled, muttering under his breath. Why does the God of Death even care if I make Friends? Scootaloo poked him in the side. "Come On, It'll be fun! We just need to go to Zecora's Cabin. It's not even that far."
Sombra sighed. "Fine." Scootaloo grinned and took to the air with slow and steady flaps. "I see you're getting better with the physical part of Flying." Sombra blinked. That was Odd, yet... Genuine. Why do I care?
She beamed. "Yeah! Rainbow Dash says I'm doing great. I have a ton of wing power, but I'm not moving my wings the right way, And look!" She stretched her wings out. "I'm getting a Wing Spurt!"
Sombra Smiled as Scootaloo launched into an explanation about the mechanics of flight and how awesome it was that she was being taught how to fly by a Wonderbolt. A sense of familiarity filled his being as a memory rose from the foggy depths of Pre-King Sombra.
Onyx bounced up and down in place, That insane grin filling her face like she had just won a million bits. "I'm So excited! Are you excited Limestone? I bet you are! This is an important day in the Empire, What do you think the Princess looks like? I bet she's beautiful! Princesses have to be beautiful. It's like a rule."
Limestone was completely still and silent, a sharp difference between him and Onyx. "Onyx?"
"What?" She paused mid-bounce.
"Shut up."
The Curtains on the castle balcony swung open and the Royal Family stepped out. Onyx Stopped moving and went deathly still. Her wing snapped into a salute along with every other pegasus Guard. The new princess, a pink pegasus filly, was looking out among the crowd of assembled Ponies. All of them let out a thunderous cheer. The poor filly yelped and ran back to her father.
Sombra caught a glint in Onyx's eye as a small tear rolled down her cheek. "She's more beautiful than I thought. So innocent too." It was barely a whisper but both Sombra and Limestone could hear her. Sombra never understood why she had cried that day and he never found out until long after that day.
"... And that's How Equestria was made!"
Sombra barely had time to ask what she meant when Sweetie Belle cut in. "Look! We're almost there! Last Pony there is a rotten egg." She kicked up a cloud of dust and Scootaloo left a purple and orange contrail. Sombra smirked and lit up his horn.
*Poof * "I win." He placed a hoof against the door. "Let's just get what we need and lea-oof." Both fillies rammed into him, knocking him right into the Hut. "Ow." Friendship hurts.
They heard a low chuckle fill the room. "Well that certainly was entertaining. Wasn't it Zecora?" A light gray stallion sat at the table, sipping tea with a zebra mare.
"Indeed it was my friend, I wish their visit need not end." She lifted the teapot and poured more into his cup.
"Who are you?" Scootaloo snapped, immediately rising to attention, ready for a fight.
"I have many names, My enemies call me the Devourer, My family calls me sweet angel, My friends however call me Skull-butt." He sipped the tea. "Hmm... Honey and lemon."
"That really doesn't answer the Question." Sweetie Belle chimed.
Thanatos looked confused. "It doesn't? Shame." He took another sip and scrunched up his muzzle. "Blegh, raspberry. Any way The only reason I'm hear was to give a little something to Sombra." His horn flashed and suddenly a cutie mark appeared on Sombra's flanks.
The Girls gasped. "Your Cutie Mark!" The said in unison.
"...Jinx." Thanatos chuckles. Both girls go silent, terrified expressions on their faces. "Oh I'm just kidding. It's not a real Cutie Mark, I'm claiming him as my student, that mark will fade once he leaves this forest. But if he were to met Celestia, Luna, Or any other Princess they will not be able to harm him. It's a thing we alicorns do when we take Students."
"Why?" Sombra gasped, staring at the mark in his flanks. "I'm Evil."
"Correction, You were evil. I sense that someone recently used a Purify spell on you. There is no evil left in you. And Even If there Was," Thanatos' Grin widened. "I doubt that would have been a problem for me. Your friends things are in that corner, You might want to hurry up before she decides to raze the forest searching for you." He sipped the tea again. "Hmmm... is that... Peppermint?"
Scootaloo placed the bag on his back and they left. Zecora looked back at Thanatos and spoke in Zebrican. "What is that mark really for?"
"Really? It's so I can keep an eye on him." Thanatos sipped that last of his tea. "Ah Black tea, my favorite. I'm sorry Zecora but I really should get going. I have a lot of preparations to make. Change is on the horizon." He vanished in a flash of light, leaving the smileng Zebra by herself.
Author's Note
Just so you know, the scene with Scootaloo didn't really happen, I was just being silly. Sorry kniznik. Any way, soon you'll get to see a bit more of Sombra's Backstory... Via Princess Cadance. Dun dun dun!
PS: I love writing Skull- butt. He really is a sweetheart, once you get past the whole 'god of Death' thing.
Cadence looked over the Crystal Empire with a sigh. The Crystal Ponies were demanding to see Sombra on trial for his crimes. She had no authority over Ponyville, as it belonged to Twilight and Twilight was in charge of Sombra's Reformation. Cadence trusted Twilight, if Twilight thought he was making progress then Cadence trusted her.
She trotted over to her bed and laid down next to Shining Armor, giving a little kiss. "Good Night, my love." With a flick of her horn she turned out the lights.
Cadence stopped dead in her tracks at the sight before her. Three ponies, an Earth, Unicorn, and Pegasus, were standing around a large cauldron. The were murmuring in a strange language as the Earth Pony stirred the strange smoking substance. The ponies themselves were not surprising, it was their attire. all three of them wore platinum armor that seemed designed for the sole purpose of making them look like Princess Celestia, if the maker had never seen or heard of Celestia. The crest had far more colors and the trim was curled into intricate designs that resembled runes. their flanks seemed to be adorned with their normal Cutie Marks instead of Celestia's.
The Unicorn smiled. "A mortal has found us. And here I was thinking that they'd forgotten us."
The Pegasus laughed. "Sister, truely you jest? Mortals have such fickle memories, she stumbled upon us by chance."
The Earth pony eyed Cadence. "Well mortal, By chance of by design, Why have you disturbed us?"
Cadence summoned up her courage to speak. "I've to ask for your help in defeating Prisma."
The pegasus grinned. "That's easy." She flew over to Cadance, slipping a knife into her hoof. "Sneak up on her and cut her throat."
Cadence stared at the knife in horror while the Unicorn spoke. "Foolish sister, Blood begets blood. Killing her would make her unworthy of her destiny."
The Earth pony huffed. "Speak not of Destiny in my presence. But a pegasus unwilling to shed blood is an oddity indeed. Heart of an Earth pony, Mind of a Unicorn, Body of a Pegasus."
The Pegasus squee'd and hugged Cadence. "I thought it untrue, A great Destiny Indeed!" The Earth pony glared. "Have you another word for it?"
"No." The Earth pony sighed. "All you need to do is approach this mare, your Earth pony heart will do the rest. Remember, Love and be loved, great power will come your way." The Pegasus rejoined her sisters and they resumed their chant.
"I have one more thing to ask." They all turned to her, perplexed. "What are your names?"
"We are the Valkyries." They said in unison. "The children of Fate, Magic, and Time." they raised their hooves eyes glowing. "Go now, greatness awaits."
She awoke to a knock on her door. Moving quickly, she put on all her regalia and started to pull a brush through her mane. "Come in!"
A Pegasus guard opened the door saluting. "Your majesty! There's been a disturbance in the Castle Courtyard. Prince Shining Armor has gone to apprehend the ponies Responsible but..." he shrunk away. "Forgive me, your majesty, but they refuse to stand down unless you speak with them."
"We'll I'm sure that it's not too bad." She set down her hair brush and smiled at him. Sometimes it felt good to be able to interact with her little ponies. She started off towards the courtyard, her eagerness causing her walk faster than would be considered princessly. The poor pegasus guard galloped to keep up.
"Your majesty, these are no ordinary ponies. These are..."
"Ugh... please stop calling me majesty, it's highness. I'm a princess, not a Queen." She opened the doors and glanced back at him. "Besides I'm an Alicorn. I'm pretty sure I can handle a couple angry ponies."
She looked up to see a Crystal Unicorn in Full-battle armor in the middle of a staring contest with Shining Armor. The unicorn was accompanied by dozens of other Crystal Unicorns and Crystal Pegasi, All of them looked ready for war. A unicorn near the back held a Flag bearing a skull with flaming blue eyes. Shining Armor spoke. "I can handle this."
"Put some real armor on, then we'll fight." The Unicorn growled.
Shining laughed. "More like you should grab some more buddies, then we'll have a fight."
Stallions "Enough. I heard you gentlestallions..."
"And mares!" A gruff looking pegasus mare with a light green coat cried.
"... Wished to speak with me?" She smiled. "Could I ask your names?"
"I am Commander Limestone, of the Harbinger Guard." He looked away from Shining. "We're here for Staff-Sergeant Sombra."
"So we can Gut him like the traitorous Pig he is!" A Unicorn Mare carrying their flag cried. they was met with more cries of agreement.
Cadence cleared her throat and that all went silent. She spoke slowly and carefully. "I'm afraid Sombra Isn't here..." Cries of anger filled the air.
"SILENCE !!!" Limestone roared. All of them grew sheepish and took some steps back. He narrowed his eyes at the group. "What would Onyx say to how your behaving?"
Cadence noticed ponies starting to come out of their homes. many looked angry and carried things in their hooves. "maybe we should head inside."
"Traitors!" a burly, amethyst stallion hurled a potted plant at Limestone, who blocked it with a small round shield. That caused the pegasus mare who'd spoken out earlier to tackle him to the ground. Within moments the entire courtyard was thrown into chaos. Normal civilians started to fling odds and ends at the Harbinger Guard, who seemed far too willing to respond with brute force.
"I agree." Limestone looked to the pegasus mare. "Starstreak! Evacuate the guard and return to the Home Base. The Princess wishes for peaceful talks."
Cadence could sense waves of love pass between them as she saluted Limestone. "Yes, Sir! I wish you the best of luck, Sir!" She flew away barking orders at the retreating Guards, who left subdued attackers in their wake. Some of the Crystal guard gave chase, in an attempt to prove they were not in fact useless.
"I didn't know there were Crystal Unicorns or Pegasi."
Limestone snorted. "Of course they'd keep that from you. In a couple of years they could pull out some random Earth pony and say that they're the true heir."
"And what makes you think I'd give up my right to the throne that easily?"
He smirked and eyed her. "You don't look like the kind of mare that get's into many fights."
Shining growled at him from his spot directly behind them. Cadence giggled at his pout. "You mentioned an 'Onyx'? Who were they?"
"She was very important to us. She and the King were helplessly and utterly in love before Sombra betrayed us. But she was one of us, we're forbidden to engage in relationships with the royals unless it's allowed by the Noble houses. The fact the King was married to some Equestrian duchess didn't help. The two started to see each other in secret but everypony in our Guard knew. When the Queen died, the King went over the Noble houses and made an honest mare outta her," He smiled, looking of into the distance. "Sombra cried like a foal then. 'Liquid Pride' he said. ah, those were the days."
"You seem to remember him Fondly." Cadence said.
"...Many of us do. I feel it's better than remembering what he became." Limestone grunted. "We didn't pick a side when he took over. Not officially."
"And why not? You obviously could have subdued him easily."
"Because according to our creed the only Crime he Committed was killing one of his Sister's in Arms." The prince and Princess of the Crystal Empire jumped in surprise. "You seem surprised."
"He enslaved the Entire Empire!" Shining Growled.
Limestone Stared at Shining, his words having no effect. "Let me show you something." His horn glowed and his armor disappeared from his body. Limestone was covered with scars, some fresher than others and one very deep one down the side of his neck. His coat was light grey and only slightly transparent. but what drew their attention was the Cutie mark. It was a Kite shield, emblazoned with the Skull from their banner, tightly wrapped in Chains. "I got lucky. Most of us never get Cutie Marks. We don't pretend to hold any loyalty to the Throne, our only connection to the Empire is the fact we're born here."
"But Starstreak..."
"Sombra killed her sister. She has every right to be enraged as for us it was little over a year ago. we have a nasty habit of holding grudges. quite honestly, the main reason I'm here is to ask what punishment he's receiving, on her behalf."
"He's been turned into a foal and is being reformed by the Elements of Harmony." Cadence said. "If he falls back to Darkness then you may have him to do with as you with as you please."
An amused smile tugged on his lips as he bowed. "Very well, your highness. If you ever require your assistance, simply speak to the dragon of the crystal mountains." His horn glowed with a prepared spell.
"Wait!" Limestone vanished in a flash of light. "... I still had questions." Cadence's ears fell in disappointment.
Shining snorted. "Good riddance. What are you doing?"
"Think of the research oppertunities!" cadences horn glowed, guiding a quill across a roll of parchment.
"You aren't..." the scroll vanished in a burst of flame. "Sound the alarm! Code Purple! I repeat, Code Purple!" Shining bolted off to make preparations for the impending alicorn invasion.
Author's Note
A wild Cadence appears. Deeper secrets are revealed. Who is Sombra? Who are the Valkyries? What is Thanatos's plan? Will I shut up and get on with the story? Stay tuned to find out.
Thanatos dug his hooves into the ground in an attempt to slow the drag. Golden light fizzed and popped, magic blazed and eventually the light threatened to overwhelm him. "Damnit Gaia!"
The light receded, revealing a slender bipedal figure. The creature had the hind legs of a pony and two massive dragon wings. A thin flexible tail snapped out behind it as its mane ignited into red flames. "What a rush!!! I think I got chills from that menacing glare you gave Connie, Omaigosh I had no idea that I could take the form of a Hellspawn, thinking back on it, it actually makes sense now that I have a new Aspect. Oh I hope that Bluebutt hasn't found my body yet, I was thinking of taking a break and reconnecting with Prosper, if you know what I mean."
"I went through a lot of trouble to keep that curse from hitting you, so I expect something in return." Thanatos said calmly.
Gaia scoffed. "You Lawful types, always making deals."
Thanatos shook his head. "I'm Neutral now."
Gaia's ear twitched and she eyed him. "Really?" She floated up and over to him, her wings spear out behind her like sails. She lifted his chin and looked him in the eye. "Let me be the judge of that, Cher."
His wings tensed and he scowled at her. "I thought you had a new aspect."
"I do, but I still have enough of a connection that I can still access my old one. Now hold still and stop avoiding my eyes." Thanatos huffed and looked into her eyes. Golden magic flashed in her eyes and she grinned. "Ohoho! There's a mare! I knew it! Hah!" She giggled like a maniac and zipped around. "Goodness, Cher, I haven't seen someone in so deep since Kindness started noticing boys! Who is she? Is it a she? Is she nice? Who am I kidding? Of course she's nice! Oh I better not be the last to know about this, Cher. Oh my gosh I need to meet her."
"And you will!" Thanatos exclaimed, interrupting her tangent. "She's the favor." Gaia squeed but otherwise didn't interrupt. "I think she may be in danger, but I can't protect her where she is right now. That's where you come in."
"Say no more, petit ange. I will protect your chosen mate with my life, I swear upon the Universal Elements and Love itself!!" Gaia grinned, "Just point me at the realm she's in and I'll take care of her."
He nodded and lowered his horn. "You may experience some discomfort."
"Believe me, Ange, I've felt worse." She flipped her 'mane' and admired her claws which ended in sharp shards of green crystal. "Making a body from dirt and fire isn't exactly rainbows and butterflies."
"Just giving you a heads up." His horn began to glow. The pair were gripped in his aura and pulled off the physical plane.
Gaia flexed her arms and pouted. "Really, Cher, you really couldn't make me bigger. I feel all tiny... And helpless. I prefer sexy Amazon."
Thanatos towered over her, a scowl across his face. "I have no effect over how you manifest in this realm, 'Cher'. If you still have a connection to Love, then why not use it to manipulate your form?"
"Because I'd rather save it for emergencies, or snooping on your love life." Gaia looked around and her eyes fell on a large rock. "Perfect!" She waved a hand at the rock and it dissolved into a fine dust. Her eyes flashed gold and the dust floated towards her. "I think no one will miss this too much." the dust vanished as it touched her skin and she began to grow in size.
"Once you're done satisfying your vanity, know that what I've told you must remain between us." Thanatos held out some keys which Gaia snatched up.
"Yes, of course, Cheri! Now go! Your duties demand you return to Equus! I will hold up my end of the deal until War rises." She bowed to Thanatos. "For on that day, we will need all the power we can get."
Thanatos returned the gesture. "Thank you, you have no idea how much this means to me."
"And for l'amour de l'harmonie, get a new name! Thanatos is so old fashioned and a mouthful!" She huffed, blowing golden hair out of her eyes.
He smirked and vanished, leaving Gaia alone. She glanced around and gasped, "Sombra!"
Sombra stared at the pegasus mare before him, a pitch black coat and gold mane. Her cutie mark was of a heart shaped cloud with lightning streaking from it. She smiled, the pearly white teeth sticking out against the glistening black coat. "Up or down?"
"Onyx? What are you..?" He began,
A hoof met his muzzle, silencing him. "Up or down?"
"I- down, maybe?" He watched her approach a button that had appeared out of nowhere. "What is this place?"
"The inbetween, some call it the dreamscape but it is so much more than that. It connects all realms and touches all minds. Few can master travel through this realm, Only Spirits and Gods can get this deep." She smirked at him. "Are you sure you want to go down?"
He shook his head, memories bubbling up to the surface. "But you're dead!"
She shrugged. "I got better." Her hoof hovered over the button. "Are you sure you'd like to go down?"
Sombra looked between her and the button. "Yes." She's just playing with me, she always does that.
Onyx's grin widened even more. "Down the rabbit hole we go!" She released a mad squeal and slammed her hoof on the button. "Madness keeps the shadows away! It lives so deep inside, don't be afraid to sway. There's nowhere we can hide, from the madness that lives inside!"
Sombra screamed in fear as the ground beneath him fell away. Onyx's mad laughter echoed all around him. "Don't be afraid to give him a swift kick in the nuts for me!" She called down from above. "He deserves it for making you kill me!"
Author's Note
I just thought to mention that a lot of Sombra's reformation is done via dreamwalking and God-like entities. Also dead ponies. Yeah, there are alot of dead ponies who have some thing to say to Sombra.
Gaia watched the small unicorn with interest, she could sense madness in him. Madness in a mortal was quite odd, but she had seen it before. Unfortunately it meant he was meant to ascend and join the Mad One's against the Shadows. She knew Discord still hadn't made peace with his madness so she was reluctant to let the chaotic spirit teach him the Arts.
Venus, the Embodiment of her own Madness, was singing a song to the sleeping pony. "Have faith in yourself and beware your darker self, He'll lie and cheat just so he can beat, you in your own game. " She flew circles around his head, "Embrace the Madness and you will see, the great power that lives inside you and me. " She smiled, Venus had a nasty habit of switching between calm and serene and wild and screaming. "Soooommmbra~! This way~!" She zoomed off into the maze giggling.
Gaia took flight, soaring far overhead. The Maze of the Mind, the first test to the mastery of the Arts. Getting lost in it would make you permanently brain dead. Gaia thought back to when her mind broke and Thanatos helped guide her through her own maze. She was familiar with the dangers. "Live damn you." She whispered. "Thanatos won't forgive me if I let his first apprentice die horribly."
She watched him charge into the maze, horn lit and ready. She began to hum and the maze sprung to life, spewing out his greatest fears. "This will be your life's most painful moment, but you must understand what you have done little Godling." She spoke in the Labyrinth's voice. She could feel the maze agreeing with her. "Embracing what you've done is the first step to being free."
Sombra looked around, surprised. "I've done nothing wrong. I was being used."
The Labyrinth chuckled. "It was still your hatred that fueled Him, your hooves that broke the bones of innocents, your magic that committed those deeds. You are just as at fault as the False God who took control of your soul." Gaia leaned back and watched. It was all the maze would allow of her. "I'm going to break you down, then your mentor will rebuild you. There are three tests you must undergo, I am the first. Once you complete the next two you will be truly reformed."
"Why should I trust you?" Sombra growled. "The last time there was ominous voice speaking to me I ended up killing my best friend."
"Don't forget her husband and about two hundred other Crystal ponies." The Labyrinth chuckled, again. "I know everything you've ever done Sombra. I am made to manifest all of your greatest fears and deepest desires. The difference between me and... Him, is that I will not force you to do anything. Everything you do in here, you do yourself. I will present you with tests but I will not tell you they are a test. I will find your true nature... if it kills you."
"Well that's not ominous at all." Sombra grumbled.
"Begin." A manticore leaped out of the shadows and launched itself at the unicorn. Gaia smiled and manifested some popcorn kernels. Venus was humming to herself and staring blankly at the fight. The Labyrinth had gone silent and was watching Sombra with curiosity. "Are you sure he is the one?"
Gaia popped a handful of kernels with her flames. "Body of a unicorn, heart of a pegasus. Those Valkyries are enamored with him. Except for Skuld. She can't see his future and it pisses her off."
"I await the day they return to us." The Labyrinth spoke with reverence to the Great Spirits. "Skuld cannot see anyone's future at present."
"And Urd can't weave the past. It doesn't change anything. Urd and Skuld weaved everything up to the Great battle. But when it came to him, none could see what would be. It makes him dangerous, a loose cannon." She eyed the popcorn kernels that lay unpopped at the bottom.
"Say Gaia." Venus chirped. "Didn't Thanatos ask us a favor?"
She sighed and set down her popcorn. "Don't kill him while I'm gone, or else Ange will destroy you and every trace of your existence."
"I wouldn't dream of it." The Labyrinth sighed. "Don't die again." Gaia and Venus disappeared in a ball of flame.
Sombra felt his training kick in as he dodged to the side of the manticore's wild swipe. He skidded on his hooves and charged up a dark magic spell. Night black crystals burst from the ground and impaled the beast through the heart. Suddenly the manticore transformed into a familiar pegasus. She wailed loudly. "Why!?! You were my brother! Why would you do this to us!?!"
"Onyx." He breathed as the pegasus went limp. "NO!" He destroyed the crystal and ran to her side. "Wake up, please." He nuzzled her side. "You're the Final Storm! You faced Dragons and Giants! You made the first Sonic Storm in Millennia and took the first step to making the Crystal Ponies embrace us. You can't die, not at my hoof." He opened his eyes and saw his reflection in a puddle of her blood.
He saw a curved red horn and slitted eyes. Purple tears poured out of the corrupted green sclera. It was completely different from Staff Sergeant Sombra, it was King Sombra. The reflection grinned, revealing sharp fangs. "One down, three to go."
His hooves moved without his consent. He began to trot through the ruined throne room, flinging the massive doors open with his magic. In his head he began to repeat the same mantra over and over. It's just a test. It's just a test. It's just a test. It's just a test. It's just a test. It's just a test. His body spoke. "Come on out Greenhoof, I know you're there. Are content to sit back as I murder the rest of your family?"
"Raugh!!!" The Green Crystal Pony leaped out off the shadows. "Traitor!" The pony knocked him over, slamming his hooves into his chest, denting the steel armor he wore. Suddenly he was back in the labyrinth battling a hydra.
Sombra created a Sword in his magic and sliced off one of the lunging heads. "It's just a test." He said. "It's just a test. It's just a test. It's just a test. It's just a test."
After a bit he slammed the blade into the Hydras heart and it died with a final screech. "Very good Sombra. You managed to ignore the illusions... after shedding a few tears." One of the walls of the labyrinth opened. "Continue."
Author's Note
It's been so long since I've written Sombra's Snarky Side(alliteration for the win.). We FINALLY get to the main arc of this story, Sombra's actual Reformation. It'll span about twenty years(Don't worry, there will be time skips.) The Labyrinth will last for two chapters, them it's back to the waking world where friends will be made and apologies given.
Edit; Sombra killing the royal family was originally going to be much darker. He was going to have brief moments of sanity where he told Onyx to run and... other stuff happened before she died.
The Valkyries(Norns)
Author's Note
Rewritten. I felt unfulfilled with the previous version. My understanding of Greek Mythology comes completely from the Percy Jackson Books and Wikipedia.
Madness Pt 2[R]
Twilight held the bag of ice against her head with her magic. "Spike, I'm fine. Stop coddling me."
Spike stomped into the room, dragging a blanket filled with bandages, books and ice cream. "Not until I'm sure you'll be okay." He crawled onto the bed with her, dragging the blanket with him. "I don't want you fainting again. Now hold still and let me bandage your head."
Twilight sighed. She lightly wrapped her aura around a book and began to lift it. as she did she could feel a faint tingle running down her horn and along her spine. She felt like she was being pulled in a specific direction. "Spike, something's wrong."
"I'll say. Your mane won't stay in one place." He grumbled, trying to tame the now ethereal mane.
Twilight ignore the comment. "No I mean I feel the need to go to Sweet Apple Acres."
"You aren't going anywhere, you just knocked your head a little too hard." Spike insisted.
Sombra's body twitched erratically in the center of dark magic crystals. Just outside the crusaders cried out in surprise and concern. Shadows began to reach out from the crystals. A ball of flame materialized above him. "Ugh .. ombres folles, je suis trop fatigué pour cette , Leave him be, He's mine." The fire spread and forced back the darkness.
"Think fast, gloom-butt." A bolt of lightning struck the place where Sombra's head had been. The Crystal Pegasus mare pouted from her spot atop the cloud. "Why are you here? Bad times are coming, you should prepare." the last words were muffled as she wrapped both wings over her face. She whimpered weakly.
He opened his mouth to speak and was cut off by a pair of hooves connecting with his side. "'The Definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different result.' I guess that means I'm deranged. I keep hitting you and expecting you to move." Onyx cocked her head to the side. "Why won't you wake up? He's going to kill you. I was just starting to like you again." She began humming.
"Onyx..."
"NO!!! She's dead! You killed her, whywhywhywhywhy?" Fake Onyx began muttering. "Magic grows in power and war is rising, Why won't he just GIVE IN?" She charged him again, this time he had enough wit to dive out of the way. The Labyrinth was seriously messing with his perceptions. He didn't even know what was real. Fake Onyx seemed to be Its favorite. He'd battled three so far, all of them raving about waking up. He couldn't even remember going to sleep.
He'd walked back up to Apple Bloom and give her the bag. They'd exchanged apologies (He felt like hers had been more genuine.) and Sweetie had pointed out that Sombra no longer had a cutie mark. Then... nothing.
Sombra flung up a shield to block the feral fake Onyx. He dropped the shield and sealed her in crystal as he'd done to the others.
"...I'm sorry." Tears streamed down his cheeks.
"Proceed to the gate." the Labyrinth droned.
Sombra shuffled forward, he was too tired to argue.
Gaia tucked in her wings and watched the small dark coated unicorn limp forward. "If you don't mind, I'd rather we not fight." He looked up and his eyes filled with relief. He shuffled forward and sat across from her. She lifted a wine glass to her lips and sipped lightly, her eyes never leaving him. "You interest me Sombra. You seem to follow Harmony's code but you've devoted your life to War."
"What do you know about Harmony's code?" Sombra asked, his entire body coiled, ready for a fight.
"Well, I helped write it. I'm one of the Daughters of Harmony. Well... it's complicated" she sighed and twirled the chalice in her hand, admiring the engravings. "To put it simply, we don't talk much anymore, I choose to do something that conflicted with her views. But I'm interested in you and that has nothing to do with my past."
"What do you want?" Sombra sighed.
"To help you. Though I should warn you that every Spirit you encounter will ask a favor of you, I'm no different." Gaia swirled a finger through her drink and held it out to him. "This drink will give you the man me of a foal, it will lock away your memories until you're stronger. You'll have a chance to be a whole new person."
Sombra stared at the chalice, contemplating the risks. He licked his lips before speaking. "Why help me?"
"Because you're as broken as you're going to get and the Labyrinth doesn't want to let you go." She swirled the drink. "And because Thanatos needs a favor from me. I don't like being in someone else's debt. Besides I know what it's like to be an adult mind trapped in the body of a foal. You'd be wise to accept this offer."
"And if I don't?"
She shrugged. "We'll just let the Labyrinth turn your brain to mush. I have no problem with that." She heard Venus cry out in despair. He is not as innocent as he appears. Venus huffed but did no argue her point.
Sombra lifted the chalice still nervous. "Will I still be me?"
"Of course, The water comes from the River Lethe. Normally souls are dipped into the river before they move on to their next life but you seem very incessant on not doing that. I thought I'd give it a chance. The water Erases learned traits and memories, at your core you will remain."
"What if I do what I did before?"
She howled with laughter, her flaming tail curled and twisted in response. "Hah! Even If you could pull off the whole 'Lord of Darkness' shtick, you'd have Five Alicorns, the Daughters of Harmony, The Embodiment of Chaos, and the Valkyries breathing down your neck. Well, in their current position the Valkyries couldn't do much, other than yell at you, but still it's not a pleasant experience. the only way you could possibly catch them by surprise would be with this guy." She snapped her fingers and a large stone cage rose out of the ground. Imprisoned inside was a feral version of Sombra, red-horned, fanged, and brimming with Dark Magic. That Sombra wasted no time in lunging at the bars and attempting to chew is way out. "And he's not in a talking mood."
Sombra nearly dropped the chalice in an attempt to get away. Gaia laughed and teleported on to the cage. "Oh please, have a little faith. I'm not about to let him run rampant. He wants to destroy Equestria. I'd much rather have you protecting it." She flicked the Embodiment of his Madness with the flaming tip of her tail. "Yay or Nay, this offer will not be made twice."
Sombra took a few deep breaths and glanced at her. Tilting his head back he swallowed the drink down in one gulp.
"Good boy." She felt the Labyrinth's power lessen. She became living flame and wrapped herself around Sombra, pulling him back into the waking world.
Twilight hit Spike with a sleeping spell and leaped from the window. The Pull was too strong to ignore. Sweet Apple Acres needed her help, even if she did not know why. Her wings beat against the wind and brought her ever closer to her Destination.
She looked down as a Dome of Black Crystals began to spread, pushing the Crusaders Away. "Twilight!" Applebloom cried. "Sombra's having a magic surge."
Twilight landed between the Dark Magic Crystals and the Crusaders, Lighting up her Horn. "Stay behind me, Girls." Cracks began to form in the Crystals. She threw up a shield spell just as the dome exploded. Twilight could her the sound of a foal crying and a mother hushing them. She cracked open her eyes to see flaming creature wrapped around Sombra, it whispered soothing things the scrawny dark unicorn. Both Sombra and the creature didn't seem all that interested in Twilight or the Crusaders.
"Être bon pour la magie, I can't come save you every time." It reached out and brushed his mane out of his face.
"Yes Momma." He murmured.
The flaming creature seemed to look at Twilight, it was a strange sensation. it had no eyes to look but you could feel it looking. It felt like being under the sun after walking through a freezer, or a warm hug between friends. "Do not punish him for this magic, I was the one who forced it out of him. Even these Scraps are dangerous for a child."
"Who are you?" Twilight snapped at the Creature.
"My what a silly Question. I am Gaia, Consort of Pan, Spirit of the Elements, Mother to lost children. I am a Mad One, and I'm just giving out a Favor." She/It vanished, leaving Sombra bare and vulnerable.
Sombra was bored. Oh so bored. Not even Discord could alleviate the amount of boredom he felt. Ever since Wisdom had left over a week ago there had been nothing for him to do. He pestered Twilight and had been barred from the Library. He thought of breaking in but she had placed magic barriers that prevented him and only him from entering. The Lavender mare was simply insufferable.
He picked up a letter that Wisdom had left him.
Sombra,
While I'm gone I expect that you obey Twilight, She'll be the one who feeds you, shelters you, and cares for you. She'll also be in charge of your Chocolate intake. I don't want you getting pudgy. Any who, She'll be your god for the next year or so. When I get back I'll expect for you to have made some friends, the CMC are nice and they love pretty much Every Pony, and Gryphon. If you break their heart's, torment them, steal from them, or be cruel in any way shape or form to them I will personally handle your Execution. Love Ya!
Wisdom.
He sighed and set the Letter down. Her threat at the end was fairly straight forward. Wisdom confused him, she was a Gryphon who could use magic. She could crush anypony who stood in her way but opted to rarely use her magic. He often wondered if she was one of a kind and she had been born with some sort of defect that made magic necessary. He had found none. then there was the Magic using Pegasus, Scoota-something.
The Pegasus was the same as any other, Crude and boastful. She hovered around town barely drawing a second glance. He could barely detect a hint of Intelligence in her. Occasionally when they had spoken at Sugarcube Corner she'd shown some bravery. She ate a spider when Discord dared her, which was fairly disgusting.
He wondered if the Fillies Wisdom refered to as 'the CMC' where like, and if they used magic as well.
Sombra grinned and trotted toward the doors of the Palace. Twilight walked through and spotted him. "Are you going somewhere?"
"I was thinking of hanging out with the 'CMC'. Where can I find them?"
Twilight raised an eyebrow at him. "Wisdom trusts you around them?" He handed her the letter. She skimmed through. "Don't say she didn't warn you. They're probably at Sugarcube Corner around now, recovering from some tree-sap related incident. Here." She levitated some bits over to him. "Buy yourself something while you're there."
He took the bits and galloped out of the palace at full speed.
He looked around the shop and spotted three fillies sitting in a booth laughing. The sounds of laughter grated against his ears. he trotted over to them. "Hello."
the pegasus of the group grinned as he came closer. "Hey look! Girls, this is Sombra." Scoots announced merrily.
The pale yellow Earth pony looked at his flank and grinned, "He don't got a Cutie Mark!" Sombra winced as the Unicorn pulled him into the booth. He opened his mouth to argue but the Earth pony barreled on. "Ah'm Applebloom! that's Sweetie Belle, Ya' already met Scoots. We're the Cutie Mark Crusaders!"
He eyed them. "What?"
"We crusade for our Cutie Marks." The white Unicorn, Sweetie Belle, said.
"I'm still here but it's mostly for morale support." Scoots said happily. Sombra frowned, all this cheerfulness was making him sick. "Wisdom told me we could help reform you."
The three fillies looked at each other and grinned. "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS: REFORMERS!!! YAY!"
Author's Note
Did anypony else feel cold dreed run down their spine? No? Just me?