Starheart the Fallen: Reminiscenceby dakotaduggerChaptersArrival.New OrdersAncient FoeFatesMeetingsArrival.Chapter 1 Arrival _________ Present Day - Ponyville - Sugar Cube Corner _________ Starheart walked up the tiny steps and through the doorway looking around from under the hood of his cloak, inspecting the shop. The walls were very colorful and a sweet aroma filled the air. "Sugarcube Corner" was what the delightful, bubbly, blonde-maned mare called it, as she praised their muffins very enthusiastically. He slowly walked over to a table in a corner, far from any pony else. He knew someone would notice him soon if they hadn't already. He was larger than most ponies after all. Still, he liked to sit where no one could get behind him, an old habit, one that he had almost forgotten why he clung to. He sat with his back to the corner and surveyed the room. There were tables all across the shop but one table, on the far side of the room, was surrounded by a group of ponies sitting and chatting happily. One of them, a pink earth pony, bounced excitedly as the others all sat, calmly discussing something. He scratched his chin with a hoof "Are they the ones?" he whispered as he turned his head. Raising his cloak a little and reaching into the bag fixed to his right side. He pulled out a book with a letter wedged inside the pages, put it on the table, and opened it to pull the letter free. Unraveling it with his hooves. He trailed his gaze down the letter, he'd already read it a few times. In fact, that's why he came to Ponyville in the first place. Toward the bottom of the letter was a list of names, as well as a picture of 6 mares taped to the parchment. The same ponies he saw now around that table. "So these are the Elements of Harmony Celestia is so proud of." he thought, glancing up at them for a moment, drawing the gaze of the rainbow pegasus who raised a brow and leaned toward the purple mare. Starheart tried to listen in but he couldn't hear them from across the room. Something the pegasus said drew the attention of the other mares who all looked over now. Starheart smiled from under his cloak. A friendly smile in earnest that was not reciprocated, he couldn't blame them for their confusion. He wagered they were debating if he was an alicorn or not considering his size. He did tower over most stallions at a height somewhere between Luna and Celestia, at least last time he'd checked anyway. He dropped his gaze back to the letter and glanced through the names. It was easy to match the pegasus to her name, no doubt that was Rainbow Dash. "you think?" he joked internally "what was your first clue? The bright rainbow mane and tail?" he thought chuckling to himself softly. The letter offered very little information about the elements, nothing beyond their friendship and how invaluable they've been since they met only a few years before. He had the sneaking suspicion that he was grateful for how brief the letter was. "I bet Celestia left out a lot," he thought as he fixed his gaze on her signature so elegantly written under the words "Your Dear Friend". He smirked at that, brightening even more as he retraced the P.S scrawled under it in different hoof-writing signed by Princess Luna. He smiled "No doubt about it now," he thought as he folded the letter back up "that's them. I can't believe I found them as soon as I came to Ponyville." He moved to put the letter back into the book, pausing as his gaze met the page he'd stored the letter in. A very sloppily written note adorned the top corner of the page "Things will never be the same again" He shook his head, it'd been so long now, he'd forgotten how he must've felt at the time. Pushing the thought aside his gaze moved to the official looking header that read "Here follows the account of the Alicorn, General Starheart, and his service to the Sisters Celestia and Luna in the Second Age" Starheart paused and glanced up at a nearby mirror. Dropping his hood, he could see the cross-shaped edge of the scar the adorned his face where his horn once was, most of it covered by his mane. He chuckled "A regular prince charming, huh?" he thought smiling at the mirror before he glanced around the room again. A brown pegasus with a dark colored mane had wandered in and was now talking to the bouncing pink earth pony - "Pinkie Pie," he thought, making a note to try and remember the names of the elements. "Cladey!" the pink pony exclaimed as she hugged the pegasus nearly knocking the hat off his head in the process. He looked at the photo once more. "He's not in the picture, but he's a friend of Pinkie Pie. Maybe her special some pony?" he thought, mentally taking in as much information as he could from watching them. "Hmm, this place got busy." he thought as he noticed the line of ponies that had formed in the shop blocking his view of the elements. He surveyed the line for a moment before 3 young fillies caught his attention. "Cute little f-" "CUTIE MARK CRUSADER FORTUNE TELLERS! YEAH!" He blinked in surprise. "Cutie mark, Crusaders?" He couldn't help chuckling softly. "At least they're enthusiastic." He shrugged as he let his gaze trail across the rest of the line, "No pony I know." he mused with a smirk "Of course not, it's not like you get out much, you old hermit." he thought before he dropped his muzzle and looked back at the page again. "The Account of The Alicorn General Starheart" he re-read the line again before finally letting his gaze trail further down the page. In very neat clean letters was a line he couldn't help feeling a small swell of pride in reading. "Dictated by Starswirl The Bearded, Princess Luna, Princess Celestia & Starheart" and neatly tucked under that was the smaller line "Scribed by Clover the Clever" He put his hoof on the table near the book and began to read slowly. As he did, he felt the memories began to resurface from long, long ago... Author's Note Well, here we go. Been working on this for a while now and I'm still working out the kinks My first official FimFiction story wish me Luck ^_^ Yes, I know an Alicorn OC lame right? (Funny enough this guy was what happened when I meant to make a joke Alicorn OC and liked what I came up with) Anyway, I hope you like this, I'm open to constructive criticism. Thanks for your time. - After 3 years I'm finally taking the time to do some much-needed revision and proofreading on this old thing. I hope you like the changes thus far and perhaps when those are done I'll finally continue his story. New OrdersChapter 2 New Orders _________ The Second Age of Equestria - More than 1000 years ago _________ A knock sounded at the door, "General Starheart, sir." "Yes. You may enter." Starheart commanded, magically placing a book back on his shelf. The door swung open and in stepped two armor-clad soldiers. "General, Sir." They saluted. He saluted back dropping it quickly "Be at ease Soldiers" he replied in a commanding tone "What news do you bring us?" One soldier stepped forward pulling a scroll from the bag on his side. "It's the King and Queen, sir. They've sent a message to you." He held out the scroll in his hoof. Starheart took it with his magic and unrolled it, reading the message. "We Understand. We thank thee, soldiers, you are dismissed." He returned their salutes again and waited for the door to close behind them. After they door closed he turned and started over to the chest at the foot of his bed. "Well, I'd better get ready. It's at least half a day's flight to the castle of the royal sisters." He smiled "To think I'll get to see them again, I haven't since we were foals." He set the scroll down on the desk and began his preparations. The wind whipped through Starheart's mane and tail as he soared through the air toward the castle in the forest. Taking in the surroundings as he flew. He took in the peaceful scenery for a few minutes, until his gaze happened across some very clear signs of destruction. He paused, hovering in the air for a moment. A large Trail of dead trees and the dead ground was surrounded by lively grass trailing far off into the distance. "What devilry is this?!" He spat in disgust. He considering flying down to inspect what appeared to be the decimated remnants of a small village, but the summons was clearly rather urgent. "Later," he thought as he continued off toward the castle. It was already visible in the distance as he flew on. Not far from the castle, he heard a crashing sound. Some birds flew away from some distant point in a panic. He hovered staring toward the commotion as a large black mass came into view over mountains on the horizon. "What in the hoof is that?" he thought. He could see smoke rising in the distance now but the mass seemed to devour it and grow a little more. He stared in amazement at such a massive form for a moment before shaking his head "I don't have time for this." he barked at himself before taking off again at a breakneck pace, the castle coming up to meet him in a flash. He glided down toward the gate and landed near it. Looking at the royal guards he took a deep breath and stood as imposing as he could manage, sighing internally. "Noble Guards, We Are General Starheart!" he boomed. Returning the Salute the introduction earned him "We were summoned by the King and Queen to the royal sisters. Wouldst thy let thine Princesses know of Our arrival at once?" he finished. The Guards nodded "At once general, the princesses have been expecting you, please follow us." "Very well" he shouted in reply "We will follow thee, noble guard," he said, following behind them. He rolled his eyes when he was sure they couldn't see "I still can't get used to this traditional Canterlot voice, I never had to use it before I was promoted to General, seems pretty silly to me." he thought, recalling the look a stunned baker gave him the first time he'd used it "Fair baker we demand another slice of cake!" he chuckled softly. One of the guards ahead of him looked back at the noise, to which Starheart stood tall again and cleared his throat. The guards lead him deep into the castle, down many corridors. "Ah, geez" he complained internally, "Are we there yet?" he thought as they came to a large door. "Finally!" he sighed as the guards pushed it open. "Your Highnesses. General Starheart has arrived!" The Guards bowed and moved to the sides. Starheart marched proudly into the room. "We are honored to be in the presence of the most beautiful and regal royal sisters" he bowed before them. "Guards we must speaketh with thine General in solitude. We pray ye, take thine leave and let us speaketh in peace!" Luna bellowed in a most commanding Royal tone.The guards bowed and closed the door to the room. Luna and Celestia sighed softly. "Starheart" they both approached quickly hugging him softly. "It's been far too long dear friend," Luna said softly. "Indeed," Celestia added her tone soft but grim "but I'm afraid we'll have to hold off on reminiscing, for now, old friend" She walked over to a window "I'm sure you must've seen the devastation on the way here." He nodded "I did. I also saw some black thing, over near the mountains" He replied gesturing in the direction of the mountains his expression hardening in concern "What can I do to help you two?" Celestia turned toward him "This terrifying creature seemed to appear out of nowhere. It has torn through Equestria and destroyed countless villages. It seems to grow more powerful as it continues its rampage. we believe it devours the positive emotions of ponies that it touches." she gave a grim look at her sister. Luna Stepped forward "The Villages it has touched have been destroyed by the ponies there after this "thing" sucked all the life and joy out of the flora, fauna, and ponies in them." She gave a concerned look. The doors swung open and a unicorn with an impressive beard stepped into the room. "Is this him?" He called out to Celestia in a friendly tone. He approached Starheart and held out a hoof "Pleased to Meet you Starheart, I'm Starswirl the Bearded." He chuckled "Just call me Starswirl." he said with a smile. Celestia moved to Starswirl's side her expression softening "It's thanks to Starswirl's skill that we were able to return the ponies touched by this creature to normal, but even now they're all a bit shaken by the experience." Luna joined them. "Starswirl here has studied the creature and he's assured us we can rid Equestria of it." She eyes Starheart, "Our Father assured us you are a very formidable General" Her expression hardened again "His spell will require all of our powers combined," she said gesturing toward her sister and Starswirl. "You see I can begin the spell but It requires a great deal of magic power even I can't conjure on my own." Starswirl adjusted his hat "The problem is, the three of us will be quite defenseless while I'm working on the spell" He patted his hoof on Starheart's shoulder "We'll have to depend on you" "Sister," Luna raised her eyes looking serious "Are you certain we can't give him a squad of guards as well?" Celestia Shook her head "I know our guards would bravely volunteer and join Starheart in defending us, but you have seen the effects of this creature's touch, If they got hit or even grazed by the abomination they may very well turn on each other and put Starheart in even greater Danger" She put on a pained expression "I am sorry old friend, but according to father there is no one more qualified for this mission than you." She looks to the others for a moment "Besides, the effects of "its" touch are much less effective on Alicorns." She eyes him hopefully. "Will you help us stop this horrible creature?" Starheart mulled it over for a moment, "Let's see, incredibly dangerous mission, with no help. Sure, sign me up." He thought before composing himself to reply. "I will," He said flatly "I'll protect you all with my very life." he bowed low to the sisters. Author's Note Well moving on, I hope you like it. Things are getting more tense now. Still open to constructive criticism so please feel free. Thanks for your time. Ancient FoeChapter 3 Ancient Foe __________ Celestia pushed open the door with her magic "Are you ready Starheart?" She looked serious "The Creature is already moving toward the castle we need to hurry before it causes any more damage" Starheart nodded galloping to Luna's Side "I'm ready, I'll do everything I can to protect you" The two Galloped outside the castle in a flash and took to the skies. Hovering in the air "We will join you as soon as possible" Celestia called after them "Starswirl had to go back to his Quarters to collect the Tome the spell in written in" She gave a hopeful look "Be careful you two" she added Starheart nodded and turned away to fly on moving a bit slow as he noticed Luna had lingered. No doubt something personal between the two sisters. He noticed her enter his peripheral vision. "You two seem to be getting along well" he said softly filling the tense atmosphere. He looked over and noticed a pain in her eyes. "Luna?" The Pain vanished in an instant and she gave a soft smile "Yeah" she shook her head slightly "but theres no time to talk about that we need to be ready for battle. As they soared above the trees around the castle a wicked form came into view the Dark mass cast a shadow on all it towered over "What?! When did it get so Close!?" Starheart exclaimed. "Do not Worry. We can hold him off no problem" Luna cast him a fierce reassuring glance. "It's good to see you Luna. It's been so lo-" "LOOK OUT!" Luna screamed Starheart turned his eyes back forward just in time to see a large black mass approaching his side. "AH!" He turned his head just in time to set his horn a glow with magic and swipe at it putting a gash on it making the mass recoil slightly. He felt a small twinge of achievement, that faded as quickly as the mass flowed instantly back together, small black debris falling off it and hitting the ground killing the grass it touched instantly. The Mass Surged again to fast for him to slash again he tried to conjure a barrier as fast as possible. "Too late" he thought as he felt a Jarring Thud. Starheart gritted his teeth at the impact, a harsh pain rocking his body but all at once it felt so cold. So hopelessly lifeless as it touched him, he could feel the tiniest hint of despair creep up on him as if someone were injecting pure misery into his heart. He reeled as he plummeted toward the ground. He struggled to balance himself and catch his breath all at once as he stretched his wings just in time to avoid colliding with the ground. Kicking up a cloud of dust. He exhaled quickly and looked back toward the enormous creature, just in time to see a second another mass falling toward him so hard the very trees near them swayed. He took a breath and readied another spell. His eyes glowed bright as the magic from his horn stretched several feet up from the end of his horn he flapped his wings hard rushing toward the monstrous on coming mass and sliced through it with a sickening sound but no blood spilled from the wound as he glanced back to see his work instead the mass slid back together in an instant. His eyes widened "WHAT!?" He heard a loud boom roar out to his left and looked over to see Luna had taken the a mass of the creature clean off with an explosion the remnants of black fell to the ground below as Luna's eyes ceased their glow. Starheart couldn't help smirk at seeing her power. "I see you've learned a lot since we were little" he called out. "No time for Nostalgia" Luna snapped back her eyes fixed on the massive dark form. Starheart nodded and glanced down at the black forms on the ground sliding together the grass seeming to melt away as it slid over it. Tiny arms seemed to appear in the mass and start to shoot up toward - "LUNA!!!" Starheart's horn glowed as he charged to intercept the tendrils moving up to engulf her. He blasted a wave of magic at the arms but they dodged the shot giving Luna enough time to ascend away from their approach. They turned on Starheart and before he could ready another spell they slammed into him binding his wings. He gasped as the mass seemed to form into a hand and rejoined the rest of the creature. He winced at the sheer force of pressure that started squeezing him. He could feel his bones straining. And his determination waning a bit, as the creatures cold touch started affecting his mind. "NO!!!" He screamed as the taste a copper trickled onto his tongue his body seemed to be numbing,he thought that might be so bad if he also didn't feel his determination and his loyalty to Equestria fading along with it. He shook his head as he collected his thoughts. "ENOUGH!!!" He shouted . He felt something trickle down his chin and focused on it Letting the pain sear back into his mind and make the numbness fade. He gritted his teeth as his emotions returned in a blaze. He lit his Horn and Conjured a small Barrier making the mass melt away from him. He tore his wings free and raised a hoof to wipe the trickle from his chin glancing at it. His eyes narrowed. "blood" he whispered as he gathered the copper on his tongue and spit it out. "We're Here!" Celestia and Starswirl called out. Luna joined Starheart in the air. "Starheart, I'm going to join the others. Will you be alright?" She looked at him seriously her horn a glow as she surrounded him with magic and healed what she could on the spot. "I will slow the beast as much as I can but it will be up to you to keep him at bay while we perform the spell" She turned back toward the beast her horn glowing bright and launching a beam of light larger than he'd ever seen her conjure before. The beam crashed against what must have been the creatures head causing it to vanish and the black mass to droop into a large mass on the ground, but it began to slowly reform immediately. "Good luck Starheart" Luna said in earnest as she flew down to join Celestia and Starswirl. The three formed a triangle as Starswirl began to chant something along with them and all their horns began to shine. Starheart nodded seriously and turned back to the reforming enemy he took a deep breath and started summoning his magic his eyes glowing once more his mane and tail whipping wildly as he gathered his power into his horn, he tilted his head forward aiming his horn at the beast, a drop of sweat beginning to roll down his muzzle. He picked a focus point right in the center of where the mass was reforming and a visible orb of light came into view. Pulling the creature in on itself before erupting out and causing the creature to droop to the ground in a massive puddle. He smirked panting slightly as he watched the puddle formless on the ground, unmoving, he took deep breaths watching it. "Maybe the spell isn't necessary after all" he whispered. He started to turn and tell the others when he noticed that the grass around the mass and the debris that had flown out away from the explosion turned black and faded into dirt, the mass bubbled and started to pull back together again. "I should have known, that would've been too easy" He said with a smirk. He started summoning more magic as the mass started reforming more quickly. He looked at the beast and cringed as he spotted a pair of grotesque eyes appearing on what must've been a chest. It looked right past Starheart at the three staring for a moment before it's body started reforming at an Alarming rate. Starheart's eyes widened in concern. "It's noticed!" he launched another wave of magic erupting against the form. Causing it to distort for a moment before bubbling back to full size again. Starheart could feel the sweat trickling down his cheek in earnest now. "Never had to use this high level of magic so much before" He said with a deep breath. He eyed the beast fiercely and launched another attack this one barely causing an indention in the creatures chest "Damn" He shook his head and spread his wings as the creature started toward him. He panted as he conjured the most powerful Barrier he could manage. The beast stopped short placing it's hand on the barrier and instantly recoiling as it sparked. Starheart couldn't help smirking. "That should slow you down" he panted heavily now. "Barriers are one thing, but an electric barrier is harder than I remember" He called back "Your Highnesses! I Hope the spell is almost ready. My barrier won't hold up too much longer" He looked back to see the creature was now slamming it's form against the barrier barely reacting to the electric shocks now. He could feel it shake with each strike. Gritting his teeth he winced as it cracked. His eyes widened. "No way!" He thought. His horn glowed anew and he focused his power. His magic beamed toward the barrier the cracks slowly being repaired. He jolted and his horn lost it's glow as he felt something cold slither up his body he looked down to see a black mass crawling up his back "WHAT?!" He looked shocked as several more of the tiny black masses hit him from below "DAMN!" He shouted as the masses moved straight to his horn. He shook his head trying to bat the blob from his horn with his hooves. The Barrier shattered and he gasped as the rest of the mass was upon him in a flash. He tried to cast a spell but the blob on his horn seemed to block his power. The mass joined the blob and pulled at his horn. He clenched his teeth and pumped his wings hard "Get off me you foul beast!" he cried as he pulled back, feeling his horn strain now. "Let GO!" he said lashing out at the mass with his hooves. It was like trying to fight a bowl of Jelly. "Damn beast!" he said tears started to form in the edge of his eyes now as he felt blood trickle down from his horn. "NO" he screamed trying to summon more power and thrashing desperately against the impossibly strong creature, blob of a creature. He bit his own tongue hard as he felt his horn pull away from his head. Blood poured down his face now, blurring his vision red. He did everything he could to stifle his scream. "I...can't risk...breaking their concentration" he tried to tell himself panting as the searing pain shook his body. He nearly lost it as the beast tore the horn across his face halving his vision. In a fit of rage he flew forward fast smashing his hoof hard into the eye that was fixed on him. Eliciting a very welcome scream from the creature. He gritted his teeth his vision red only searing pain and unfathomable anger keeping him from screaming in agony. "You " he stammered wishing desperately for someone to come along and verbally put the creature in its place, his fury totally killing his vocabulary. "Damn Stupid Monster" he said too furious and in pain to come up with anything better. "Nothing can stop the s-" He didn't hear the rest as he barely managed to see the creature try to grab him from the blood red periphery of his eye. "Stop the what?" He said legitimately shocked that the creature suddenly spoke. He flew back surveying the beast again trying to wipe the blood from his eye. Shaking his head "doesn't matter what it called itself I need to stop this thing" he resolved his mind begging him to do nothing more than scream in pain. He Flew forward again this time turning his flank to it and bucking hard ellicting a another roar of what he truly hoped was pain. "Nothing can stop the Smooze!" the beast screamed trying to wash over him like a wave. FatesChapter 4 Fates ________ "S-Smooze?!" he froze flying down trying to find an escape from the wave. "This creature has a name?!" he thought frantically dodging as he flew under the wave barely dodging as it crash down behind him. "Ha, You damn Smooze!" he shouted looking for another eye to smash. He felt a cold chill as he turned turned his head to see the creature sweeping up over him like a wave once again. sweeping down he flew as fast as he could away. The body of the creature snagging his rear hoof. His eyes widened "LET GO YOU DAMN SMOOZE!" he shouted flapping his wings as hard as her could pulling away, but this creatures grip was impossibly strong. He Winced again as he felt his ankle crack a bit "AGH, Damn thing!" he cursed under his breath his heart jolting when the thing crept up to his wing pulling it back roughly. He thrashed hard in desperation. "LET ME GO" He bit at the Smooze now trying to pull it off him tearing small chunks away and spitting them out ignoring the horribly rancid taste that covered his tongue. He paused as he noticed the triangle the three formed glowed bright like a beacon and shot into the sky as the spell neared completion. "Nothing can stop the Smooze" the beast called again. As it gave a sickening tug on his wing. He couldn't hold it back this time he let out an ear piercing scream as he felt his wing pull away from his side. He gritted his teeth straining them uncomfortably tears mixing with the blood the still flowed into his eye. He panted as he felt sick and unsteady now, his vision blurring now as nausea rose up in his throat "S-Smooze" he felt the Smooze's power claw at him his anger starting to numb. He choked out a mouthful of something rancid, too dazed to care if it was bile or blood as he felt the creature give one last Tug and pull his wing from his side with a sickening sound. The Beacon Released a shock wave that rocked them both causing them to look up at it. He shook his head taking deep breaths again as he closed his eye picturing them. "Luna...Celestia...Starswirl...Everyone" He screamed in his head chanting the names over and over until he felt the fires of searing pain, anger, and determination bring him back from the brink of unconsciousness. He took a few more deep breaths and bit into the The Mass the held him clawing his way out of it's grip and slamming his head against the eye that just opened next to him. "You're ...finished...Smooze" he panted spitting blood at the Eye and clawing at it with his hooves. Suddenly he felt himself flying involuntarily. He gasped as he realized the beast had thrown him, just in time to slam into the ground. He felt a sickening crack and spat out a mouthful of blood. His vision was fading as he tried to survey the scene. He struggled to his hooves wincing as he felt his cracked ankle take on some weight. His heart sank as he spotted his wing on the ground near him tipped in blood. Feeling more tears mixing with blood and sweat and now dirt as it rolled down his cheek. He took a shaky breath and lifted his head somehow managing to find the beacon of light. The beast was staring at it as it began to pulse. He tried to call out but all that escaped was a cough. He looked up at the beast who was raising an Limb something bright and pointing adorning the top of it as it craned away from the three in an arch. "Is it gonna, throw something at them?" He tried to make out the object. "Is that?" he staggered spitting something up again with a cough. "My...horn?" he thought and he traced the arch with his eye... "no" He whispered shaking violently as he moved toward the beacon. The massive limb was at its highest point now any second and it'd take its shot. He choked out another sickening cough and broke into a wobbly trot. The beast took it's shot flipping it's limb and launching his horn toward the beacon "It can't take much longer now" he thought frantically " I just have to protect them a little longer" he begged his body to cooperate as he took off toward them "NO!" he shouted as he charged ... He could see the horn flying faster than he ever did on his wings as he shook violently. "Hooves don't fail me now" He begged. Fighting a chuckle with a cough. He could see his horn now and he jumped in front of it. He felt it pierce his flank and his twisted away from the beacon finally collapsing on the ground. He shook and his blood stained vision darkened he didn't have the strength to get up again this time. "Plea..." *he coughed as he gasped for more air "please...stop..." his eye slowly closed and sound muffled grimly as he spit a bit of blood out with a jolt his eye finally closed and he couldn't hear anything anymore "him" he trailed off and everything faded to dark silence. "..Sta..." He winced a bit "Star...art!" His furrowed his brow as he strained to listen "STARHEART!" He opened his eye and looked up. It was blurry at first but it cleared quickly "C...Celestia?" he tried to sit up "DON'T MOVE!" Yelled a voice that came into view. He nodded slightly and lie still "Are...Are we dead?" He blinked taking in the radiant form of Celestia. She shook her head "No" She smiled "Dear Starheart, Starswirl's spell defeated that creature" she approached and bowed her head down low. "and we Owe you our victory" She said in a melodic tone as she raised herself "If not for your bravery we would never have completed that spell" She sit and her smile faded "Do you" her expression was pained now "do you recall your injuries?" He closed his eye and opened it again. wincing with a jolt..."Yes" he said through a twinge of pain. "I am sorry Starheart." She said with a sad tone "If only-" He sat up gritting his teeth "Stop!" He barked as he laid on his stomach his body screaming in pain. "I did what I had to, to be sure you could save Equestria" he said flatly. "I'd do it again too, as many times as I had to" he bowed his head slightly wincing again "Celestia" He closed his eye again. Celestia smiled at him standing "Nevertheless, we have prepared you a gift for your heroism" She turned and signaled to a guard who wheeled in a Mannequin with a brilliant Golden suit of armor his wing adorned the Right side and his horn was seated firmly in the head piece along with a brilliant eye piece on the right side. "Starswirl himself enchanted this armor for you" She smiled Weakly "With it you should be able to use your magic again..." she dropped her eyes "Should the need arise" She looked up at him again. He coughed sending a wave of pain up his body and shook as he climbed off the bed wincing. He stood before Celestia and bowed down low "Thank you for this gift your highness, May the Reign of you and your sister last for all time" He stood again and swayed nearly falling. He felt something brace him and looked to see Celestia's side pressed against his own. "Thank You Starheart...for protecting us, so we could save our Equestria" She smiled and moved around hugging him lightly. His eye widened and he winced at her touch. Before he returned the hug. ______ MeetingsChapter 5 Meetings _______________ Present Day - Ponyville - Sugarcube Corner _______________ He took a deep breath as he smiled glancing at the mirror again. "Not quite the same Brash young Alicorn General now are we?" He said chuckling softly as he closed the book. "Excuse me" said an unfamiliar voice. He looked up a bit surprised to see a young purple Alicorn before him. "Oh, um yes?" He put a hoof on the letter he'd forgotten to slide back into the page of the book. "I'm sorry to bother you" The Alicorn said softly "But I couldn't help noticing that book you have there" Shes said pointing at his journal on the table. "It's just that I work in a library and I'm sure I've never seen that one." Her eyes were full of wonder. Starheart smiled "No you wouldn't have, this is from my private collection" he said eliciting a notable look of curiosity from the Mare. "There aren't any other copies of this one, it's one of a kind" He said putting a hoof on it. "Oh I see" She said a bit hopeful "It's just that I've seen book covers and bindings similar to that one, but they were in the Starswirl the bearded wing at the Library in Canterlot" She added with a barely restrained tone of excitement. He chuckled softly "Ahh" he looked over her face mentally comparing it to the photograph. "Twilight Sparkle" he thought. "I take it you're a fan of Starswirl?" He asked calmly. The Mares eyes seemed to Light up like never before. He smiled certain that he had found and sparked one of her interests. "My Teacher told me so much about him" she was practically beaming now "And I never miss a chance to visit the traveling museum when it comes through Ponyville" He smiled watching her clearly excited face for a moment. "Oh, my goodness where are my manners" She said finally blushing very lightly "I'm Twilight Sparkle" she raised a hoof across the table. "Starheart" he replied pressing his hoof against hers and shaking her hoof softly "It's a Pleasure to meet you Princess Twilight" he said bowing his head slightly. She seemed a little curious as she stared at him for a moment. It was clear that she was uncertain about him. "I don't mean to be nosy b-" "HEY!" said the voice that interrupted "Twilight, the cupcakes are done. If you don't Hurry Rainbow Dash might eat yours too " she said almost bouncing as she said it. Turning toward Starheart in the same moment she bounced again "Hi" she smiled. "I'm Pinkie Pie whats your name?" He smiled at her brightly "I'm Starheart" He replied holding out a hoof toward her. "It's nice to meet ya Starheart" she added with undisguised excitement before gasping suddenly "Oh my gosh" she said disappearing into the back of the shop. Twilight rolled her eyes "You'll have to excuse Pinkie Pie, she really is wonderful but she takes some getting used to" She said kindly He shook his head "It's No problem Twilight Sparkle, I think she's wonderfully energetic" He replied. "So you were s-" "Twilight" interrupted another voice "I'm so so sorry to bother you darling, but you see Rainbow Dash is getting quite impatient and has been staring at your cupcake rather aggressively." She took a glance at Starheart "and How is this" she seemed to grimace slightly "er- um "charming" fellow Twilight I don't believe we've met before" "Oh I'm sorry, Rarity this is Starheart" Twilight replied "Starheart this is my friend Rarity" she added He Raised a hoof toward her "A pleasure to make your acquaintance Miss Rarity" he said softly. She eye'd his hoof with something between curiosity and disgust, a bit surprised by the tone of his greeting giving an uncertain smile as she pressed her hoof to his "Charmed I'm sure Mr. Starheart" she said calmly "If you'll please excuse me. I need to rejoin the others. She bowed her head slightly and and moved away back toward the table. "Oh okay" Twilight called after her. She turned back toward Starheart "I'm sorry Mr. Starheart I really need to go before my friend gets too impatient" She starts toward her friends "It was nice to meet you" she added before trotting away to her friends. Starheart smiled waving after her before looking down at the letter again. "Hmm Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Applejack " he whispered "Looks like I have quite a interesting mission this time" He said softly "Just what have you gotten me into Celestia?" He asked the letter quietly. Author's Note And...there you have it the origins of My OC Starheart. Don't worry there is more to come just wanted to establish the character before I start on the next part that is set in the modern time. I hope you like it. Still Welcoming Constructive Criticism.
Arrival.Chapter 1 Arrival _________ Present Day - Ponyville - Sugar Cube Corner _________ Starheart walked up the tiny steps and through the doorway looking around from under the hood of his cloak, inspecting the shop. The walls were very colorful and a sweet aroma filled the air. "Sugarcube Corner" was what the delightful, bubbly, blonde-maned mare called it, as she praised their muffins very enthusiastically. He slowly walked over to a table in a corner, far from any pony else. He knew someone would notice him soon if they hadn't already. He was larger than most ponies after all. Still, he liked to sit where no one could get behind him, an old habit, one that he had almost forgotten why he clung to. He sat with his back to the corner and surveyed the room. There were tables all across the shop but one table, on the far side of the room, was surrounded by a group of ponies sitting and chatting happily. One of them, a pink earth pony, bounced excitedly as the others all sat, calmly discussing something. He scratched his chin with a hoof "Are they the ones?" he whispered as he turned his head. Raising his cloak a little and reaching into the bag fixed to his right side. He pulled out a book with a letter wedged inside the pages, put it on the table, and opened it to pull the letter free. Unraveling it with his hooves. He trailed his gaze down the letter, he'd already read it a few times. In fact, that's why he came to Ponyville in the first place. Toward the bottom of the letter was a list of names, as well as a picture of 6 mares taped to the parchment. The same ponies he saw now around that table. "So these are the Elements of Harmony Celestia is so proud of." he thought, glancing up at them for a moment, drawing the gaze of the rainbow pegasus who raised a brow and leaned toward the purple mare. Starheart tried to listen in but he couldn't hear them from across the room. Something the pegasus said drew the attention of the other mares who all looked over now. Starheart smiled from under his cloak. A friendly smile in earnest that was not reciprocated, he couldn't blame them for their confusion. He wagered they were debating if he was an alicorn or not considering his size. He did tower over most stallions at a height somewhere between Luna and Celestia, at least last time he'd checked anyway. He dropped his gaze back to the letter and glanced through the names. It was easy to match the pegasus to her name, no doubt that was Rainbow Dash. "you think?" he joked internally "what was your first clue? The bright rainbow mane and tail?" he thought chuckling to himself softly. The letter offered very little information about the elements, nothing beyond their friendship and how invaluable they've been since they met only a few years before. He had the sneaking suspicion that he was grateful for how brief the letter was. "I bet Celestia left out a lot," he thought as he fixed his gaze on her signature so elegantly written under the words "Your Dear Friend". He smirked at that, brightening even more as he retraced the P.S scrawled under it in different hoof-writing signed by Princess Luna. He smiled "No doubt about it now," he thought as he folded the letter back up "that's them. I can't believe I found them as soon as I came to Ponyville." He moved to put the letter back into the book, pausing as his gaze met the page he'd stored the letter in. A very sloppily written note adorned the top corner of the page "Things will never be the same again" He shook his head, it'd been so long now, he'd forgotten how he must've felt at the time. Pushing the thought aside his gaze moved to the official looking header that read "Here follows the account of the Alicorn, General Starheart, and his service to the Sisters Celestia and Luna in the Second Age" Starheart paused and glanced up at a nearby mirror. Dropping his hood, he could see the cross-shaped edge of the scar the adorned his face where his horn once was, most of it covered by his mane. He chuckled "A regular prince charming, huh?" he thought smiling at the mirror before he glanced around the room again. A brown pegasus with a dark colored mane had wandered in and was now talking to the bouncing pink earth pony - "Pinkie Pie," he thought, making a note to try and remember the names of the elements. "Cladey!" the pink pony exclaimed as she hugged the pegasus nearly knocking the hat off his head in the process. He looked at the photo once more. "He's not in the picture, but he's a friend of Pinkie Pie. Maybe her special some pony?" he thought, mentally taking in as much information as he could from watching them. "Hmm, this place got busy." he thought as he noticed the line of ponies that had formed in the shop blocking his view of the elements. He surveyed the line for a moment before 3 young fillies caught his attention. "Cute little f-" "CUTIE MARK CRUSADER FORTUNE TELLERS! YEAH!" He blinked in surprise. "Cutie mark, Crusaders?" He couldn't help chuckling softly. "At least they're enthusiastic." He shrugged as he let his gaze trail across the rest of the line, "No pony I know." he mused with a smirk "Of course not, it's not like you get out much, you old hermit." he thought before he dropped his muzzle and looked back at the page again. "The Account of The Alicorn General Starheart" he re-read the line again before finally letting his gaze trail further down the page. In very neat clean letters was a line he couldn't help feeling a small swell of pride in reading. "Dictated by Starswirl The Bearded, Princess Luna, Princess Celestia & Starheart" and neatly tucked under that was the smaller line "Scribed by Clover the Clever" He put his hoof on the table near the book and began to read slowly. As he did, he felt the memories began to resurface from long, long ago... Author's Note Well, here we go. Been working on this for a while now and I'm still working out the kinks My first official FimFiction story wish me Luck ^_^ Yes, I know an Alicorn OC lame right? (Funny enough this guy was what happened when I meant to make a joke Alicorn OC and liked what I came up with) Anyway, I hope you like this, I'm open to constructive criticism. Thanks for your time. - After 3 years I'm finally taking the time to do some much-needed revision and proofreading on this old thing. I hope you like the changes thus far and perhaps when those are done I'll finally continue his story.
New OrdersChapter 2 New Orders _________ The Second Age of Equestria - More than 1000 years ago _________ A knock sounded at the door, "General Starheart, sir." "Yes. You may enter." Starheart commanded, magically placing a book back on his shelf. The door swung open and in stepped two armor-clad soldiers. "General, Sir." They saluted. He saluted back dropping it quickly "Be at ease Soldiers" he replied in a commanding tone "What news do you bring us?" One soldier stepped forward pulling a scroll from the bag on his side. "It's the King and Queen, sir. They've sent a message to you." He held out the scroll in his hoof. Starheart took it with his magic and unrolled it, reading the message. "We Understand. We thank thee, soldiers, you are dismissed." He returned their salutes again and waited for the door to close behind them. After they door closed he turned and started over to the chest at the foot of his bed. "Well, I'd better get ready. It's at least half a day's flight to the castle of the royal sisters." He smiled "To think I'll get to see them again, I haven't since we were foals." He set the scroll down on the desk and began his preparations. The wind whipped through Starheart's mane and tail as he soared through the air toward the castle in the forest. Taking in the surroundings as he flew. He took in the peaceful scenery for a few minutes, until his gaze happened across some very clear signs of destruction. He paused, hovering in the air for a moment. A large Trail of dead trees and the dead ground was surrounded by lively grass trailing far off into the distance. "What devilry is this?!" He spat in disgust. He considering flying down to inspect what appeared to be the decimated remnants of a small village, but the summons was clearly rather urgent. "Later," he thought as he continued off toward the castle. It was already visible in the distance as he flew on. Not far from the castle, he heard a crashing sound. Some birds flew away from some distant point in a panic. He hovered staring toward the commotion as a large black mass came into view over mountains on the horizon. "What in the hoof is that?" he thought. He could see smoke rising in the distance now but the mass seemed to devour it and grow a little more. He stared in amazement at such a massive form for a moment before shaking his head "I don't have time for this." he barked at himself before taking off again at a breakneck pace, the castle coming up to meet him in a flash. He glided down toward the gate and landed near it. Looking at the royal guards he took a deep breath and stood as imposing as he could manage, sighing internally. "Noble Guards, We Are General Starheart!" he boomed. Returning the Salute the introduction earned him "We were summoned by the King and Queen to the royal sisters. Wouldst thy let thine Princesses know of Our arrival at once?" he finished. The Guards nodded "At once general, the princesses have been expecting you, please follow us." "Very well" he shouted in reply "We will follow thee, noble guard," he said, following behind them. He rolled his eyes when he was sure they couldn't see "I still can't get used to this traditional Canterlot voice, I never had to use it before I was promoted to General, seems pretty silly to me." he thought, recalling the look a stunned baker gave him the first time he'd used it "Fair baker we demand another slice of cake!" he chuckled softly. One of the guards ahead of him looked back at the noise, to which Starheart stood tall again and cleared his throat. The guards lead him deep into the castle, down many corridors. "Ah, geez" he complained internally, "Are we there yet?" he thought as they came to a large door. "Finally!" he sighed as the guards pushed it open. "Your Highnesses. General Starheart has arrived!" The Guards bowed and moved to the sides. Starheart marched proudly into the room. "We are honored to be in the presence of the most beautiful and regal royal sisters" he bowed before them. "Guards we must speaketh with thine General in solitude. We pray ye, take thine leave and let us speaketh in peace!" Luna bellowed in a most commanding Royal tone.The guards bowed and closed the door to the room. Luna and Celestia sighed softly. "Starheart" they both approached quickly hugging him softly. "It's been far too long dear friend," Luna said softly. "Indeed," Celestia added her tone soft but grim "but I'm afraid we'll have to hold off on reminiscing, for now, old friend" She walked over to a window "I'm sure you must've seen the devastation on the way here." He nodded "I did. I also saw some black thing, over near the mountains" He replied gesturing in the direction of the mountains his expression hardening in concern "What can I do to help you two?" Celestia turned toward him "This terrifying creature seemed to appear out of nowhere. It has torn through Equestria and destroyed countless villages. It seems to grow more powerful as it continues its rampage. we believe it devours the positive emotions of ponies that it touches." she gave a grim look at her sister. Luna Stepped forward "The Villages it has touched have been destroyed by the ponies there after this "thing" sucked all the life and joy out of the flora, fauna, and ponies in them." She gave a concerned look. The doors swung open and a unicorn with an impressive beard stepped into the room. "Is this him?" He called out to Celestia in a friendly tone. He approached Starheart and held out a hoof "Pleased to Meet you Starheart, I'm Starswirl the Bearded." He chuckled "Just call me Starswirl." he said with a smile. Celestia moved to Starswirl's side her expression softening "It's thanks to Starswirl's skill that we were able to return the ponies touched by this creature to normal, but even now they're all a bit shaken by the experience." Luna joined them. "Starswirl here has studied the creature and he's assured us we can rid Equestria of it." She eyes Starheart, "Our Father assured us you are a very formidable General" Her expression hardened again "His spell will require all of our powers combined," she said gesturing toward her sister and Starswirl. "You see I can begin the spell but It requires a great deal of magic power even I can't conjure on my own." Starswirl adjusted his hat "The problem is, the three of us will be quite defenseless while I'm working on the spell" He patted his hoof on Starheart's shoulder "We'll have to depend on you" "Sister," Luna raised her eyes looking serious "Are you certain we can't give him a squad of guards as well?" Celestia Shook her head "I know our guards would bravely volunteer and join Starheart in defending us, but you have seen the effects of this creature's touch, If they got hit or even grazed by the abomination they may very well turn on each other and put Starheart in even greater Danger" She put on a pained expression "I am sorry old friend, but according to father there is no one more qualified for this mission than you." She looks to the others for a moment "Besides, the effects of "its" touch are much less effective on Alicorns." She eyes him hopefully. "Will you help us stop this horrible creature?" Starheart mulled it over for a moment, "Let's see, incredibly dangerous mission, with no help. Sure, sign me up." He thought before composing himself to reply. "I will," He said flatly "I'll protect you all with my very life." he bowed low to the sisters. Author's Note Well moving on, I hope you like it. Things are getting more tense now. Still open to constructive criticism so please feel free. Thanks for your time.
Ancient FoeChapter 3 Ancient Foe __________ Celestia pushed open the door with her magic "Are you ready Starheart?" She looked serious "The Creature is already moving toward the castle we need to hurry before it causes any more damage" Starheart nodded galloping to Luna's Side "I'm ready, I'll do everything I can to protect you" The two Galloped outside the castle in a flash and took to the skies. Hovering in the air "We will join you as soon as possible" Celestia called after them "Starswirl had to go back to his Quarters to collect the Tome the spell in written in" She gave a hopeful look "Be careful you two" she added Starheart nodded and turned away to fly on moving a bit slow as he noticed Luna had lingered. No doubt something personal between the two sisters. He noticed her enter his peripheral vision. "You two seem to be getting along well" he said softly filling the tense atmosphere. He looked over and noticed a pain in her eyes. "Luna?" The Pain vanished in an instant and she gave a soft smile "Yeah" she shook her head slightly "but theres no time to talk about that we need to be ready for battle. As they soared above the trees around the castle a wicked form came into view the Dark mass cast a shadow on all it towered over "What?! When did it get so Close!?" Starheart exclaimed. "Do not Worry. We can hold him off no problem" Luna cast him a fierce reassuring glance. "It's good to see you Luna. It's been so lo-" "LOOK OUT!" Luna screamed Starheart turned his eyes back forward just in time to see a large black mass approaching his side. "AH!" He turned his head just in time to set his horn a glow with magic and swipe at it putting a gash on it making the mass recoil slightly. He felt a small twinge of achievement, that faded as quickly as the mass flowed instantly back together, small black debris falling off it and hitting the ground killing the grass it touched instantly. The Mass Surged again to fast for him to slash again he tried to conjure a barrier as fast as possible. "Too late" he thought as he felt a Jarring Thud. Starheart gritted his teeth at the impact, a harsh pain rocking his body but all at once it felt so cold. So hopelessly lifeless as it touched him, he could feel the tiniest hint of despair creep up on him as if someone were injecting pure misery into his heart. He reeled as he plummeted toward the ground. He struggled to balance himself and catch his breath all at once as he stretched his wings just in time to avoid colliding with the ground. Kicking up a cloud of dust. He exhaled quickly and looked back toward the enormous creature, just in time to see a second another mass falling toward him so hard the very trees near them swayed. He took a breath and readied another spell. His eyes glowed bright as the magic from his horn stretched several feet up from the end of his horn he flapped his wings hard rushing toward the monstrous on coming mass and sliced through it with a sickening sound but no blood spilled from the wound as he glanced back to see his work instead the mass slid back together in an instant. His eyes widened "WHAT!?" He heard a loud boom roar out to his left and looked over to see Luna had taken the a mass of the creature clean off with an explosion the remnants of black fell to the ground below as Luna's eyes ceased their glow. Starheart couldn't help smirk at seeing her power. "I see you've learned a lot since we were little" he called out. "No time for Nostalgia" Luna snapped back her eyes fixed on the massive dark form. Starheart nodded and glanced down at the black forms on the ground sliding together the grass seeming to melt away as it slid over it. Tiny arms seemed to appear in the mass and start to shoot up toward - "LUNA!!!" Starheart's horn glowed as he charged to intercept the tendrils moving up to engulf her. He blasted a wave of magic at the arms but they dodged the shot giving Luna enough time to ascend away from their approach. They turned on Starheart and before he could ready another spell they slammed into him binding his wings. He gasped as the mass seemed to form into a hand and rejoined the rest of the creature. He winced at the sheer force of pressure that started squeezing him. He could feel his bones straining. And his determination waning a bit, as the creatures cold touch started affecting his mind. "NO!!!" He screamed as the taste a copper trickled onto his tongue his body seemed to be numbing,he thought that might be so bad if he also didn't feel his determination and his loyalty to Equestria fading along with it. He shook his head as he collected his thoughts. "ENOUGH!!!" He shouted . He felt something trickle down his chin and focused on it Letting the pain sear back into his mind and make the numbness fade. He gritted his teeth as his emotions returned in a blaze. He lit his Horn and Conjured a small Barrier making the mass melt away from him. He tore his wings free and raised a hoof to wipe the trickle from his chin glancing at it. His eyes narrowed. "blood" he whispered as he gathered the copper on his tongue and spit it out. "We're Here!" Celestia and Starswirl called out. Luna joined Starheart in the air. "Starheart, I'm going to join the others. Will you be alright?" She looked at him seriously her horn a glow as she surrounded him with magic and healed what she could on the spot. "I will slow the beast as much as I can but it will be up to you to keep him at bay while we perform the spell" She turned back toward the beast her horn glowing bright and launching a beam of light larger than he'd ever seen her conjure before. The beam crashed against what must have been the creatures head causing it to vanish and the black mass to droop into a large mass on the ground, but it began to slowly reform immediately. "Good luck Starheart" Luna said in earnest as she flew down to join Celestia and Starswirl. The three formed a triangle as Starswirl began to chant something along with them and all their horns began to shine. Starheart nodded seriously and turned back to the reforming enemy he took a deep breath and started summoning his magic his eyes glowing once more his mane and tail whipping wildly as he gathered his power into his horn, he tilted his head forward aiming his horn at the beast, a drop of sweat beginning to roll down his muzzle. He picked a focus point right in the center of where the mass was reforming and a visible orb of light came into view. Pulling the creature in on itself before erupting out and causing the creature to droop to the ground in a massive puddle. He smirked panting slightly as he watched the puddle formless on the ground, unmoving, he took deep breaths watching it. "Maybe the spell isn't necessary after all" he whispered. He started to turn and tell the others when he noticed that the grass around the mass and the debris that had flown out away from the explosion turned black and faded into dirt, the mass bubbled and started to pull back together again. "I should have known, that would've been too easy" He said with a smirk. He started summoning more magic as the mass started reforming more quickly. He looked at the beast and cringed as he spotted a pair of grotesque eyes appearing on what must've been a chest. It looked right past Starheart at the three staring for a moment before it's body started reforming at an Alarming rate. Starheart's eyes widened in concern. "It's noticed!" he launched another wave of magic erupting against the form. Causing it to distort for a moment before bubbling back to full size again. Starheart could feel the sweat trickling down his cheek in earnest now. "Never had to use this high level of magic so much before" He said with a deep breath. He eyed the beast fiercely and launched another attack this one barely causing an indention in the creatures chest "Damn" He shook his head and spread his wings as the creature started toward him. He panted as he conjured the most powerful Barrier he could manage. The beast stopped short placing it's hand on the barrier and instantly recoiling as it sparked. Starheart couldn't help smirking. "That should slow you down" he panted heavily now. "Barriers are one thing, but an electric barrier is harder than I remember" He called back "Your Highnesses! I Hope the spell is almost ready. My barrier won't hold up too much longer" He looked back to see the creature was now slamming it's form against the barrier barely reacting to the electric shocks now. He could feel it shake with each strike. Gritting his teeth he winced as it cracked. His eyes widened. "No way!" He thought. His horn glowed anew and he focused his power. His magic beamed toward the barrier the cracks slowly being repaired. He jolted and his horn lost it's glow as he felt something cold slither up his body he looked down to see a black mass crawling up his back "WHAT?!" He looked shocked as several more of the tiny black masses hit him from below "DAMN!" He shouted as the masses moved straight to his horn. He shook his head trying to bat the blob from his horn with his hooves. The Barrier shattered and he gasped as the rest of the mass was upon him in a flash. He tried to cast a spell but the blob on his horn seemed to block his power. The mass joined the blob and pulled at his horn. He clenched his teeth and pumped his wings hard "Get off me you foul beast!" he cried as he pulled back, feeling his horn strain now. "Let GO!" he said lashing out at the mass with his hooves. It was like trying to fight a bowl of Jelly. "Damn beast!" he said tears started to form in the edge of his eyes now as he felt blood trickle down from his horn. "NO" he screamed trying to summon more power and thrashing desperately against the impossibly strong creature, blob of a creature. He bit his own tongue hard as he felt his horn pull away from his head. Blood poured down his face now, blurring his vision red. He did everything he could to stifle his scream. "I...can't risk...breaking their concentration" he tried to tell himself panting as the searing pain shook his body. He nearly lost it as the beast tore the horn across his face halving his vision. In a fit of rage he flew forward fast smashing his hoof hard into the eye that was fixed on him. Eliciting a very welcome scream from the creature. He gritted his teeth his vision red only searing pain and unfathomable anger keeping him from screaming in agony. "You " he stammered wishing desperately for someone to come along and verbally put the creature in its place, his fury totally killing his vocabulary. "Damn Stupid Monster" he said too furious and in pain to come up with anything better. "Nothing can stop the s-" He didn't hear the rest as he barely managed to see the creature try to grab him from the blood red periphery of his eye. "Stop the what?" He said legitimately shocked that the creature suddenly spoke. He flew back surveying the beast again trying to wipe the blood from his eye. Shaking his head "doesn't matter what it called itself I need to stop this thing" he resolved his mind begging him to do nothing more than scream in pain. He Flew forward again this time turning his flank to it and bucking hard ellicting a another roar of what he truly hoped was pain. "Nothing can stop the Smooze!" the beast screamed trying to wash over him like a wave.
FatesChapter 4 Fates ________ "S-Smooze?!" he froze flying down trying to find an escape from the wave. "This creature has a name?!" he thought frantically dodging as he flew under the wave barely dodging as it crash down behind him. "Ha, You damn Smooze!" he shouted looking for another eye to smash. He felt a cold chill as he turned turned his head to see the creature sweeping up over him like a wave once again. sweeping down he flew as fast as he could away. The body of the creature snagging his rear hoof. His eyes widened "LET GO YOU DAMN SMOOZE!" he shouted flapping his wings as hard as her could pulling away, but this creatures grip was impossibly strong. He Winced again as he felt his ankle crack a bit "AGH, Damn thing!" he cursed under his breath his heart jolting when the thing crept up to his wing pulling it back roughly. He thrashed hard in desperation. "LET ME GO" He bit at the Smooze now trying to pull it off him tearing small chunks away and spitting them out ignoring the horribly rancid taste that covered his tongue. He paused as he noticed the triangle the three formed glowed bright like a beacon and shot into the sky as the spell neared completion. "Nothing can stop the Smooze" the beast called again. As it gave a sickening tug on his wing. He couldn't hold it back this time he let out an ear piercing scream as he felt his wing pull away from his side. He gritted his teeth straining them uncomfortably tears mixing with the blood the still flowed into his eye. He panted as he felt sick and unsteady now, his vision blurring now as nausea rose up in his throat "S-Smooze" he felt the Smooze's power claw at him his anger starting to numb. He choked out a mouthful of something rancid, too dazed to care if it was bile or blood as he felt the creature give one last Tug and pull his wing from his side with a sickening sound. The Beacon Released a shock wave that rocked them both causing them to look up at it. He shook his head taking deep breaths again as he closed his eye picturing them. "Luna...Celestia...Starswirl...Everyone" He screamed in his head chanting the names over and over until he felt the fires of searing pain, anger, and determination bring him back from the brink of unconsciousness. He took a few more deep breaths and bit into the The Mass the held him clawing his way out of it's grip and slamming his head against the eye that just opened next to him. "You're ...finished...Smooze" he panted spitting blood at the Eye and clawing at it with his hooves. Suddenly he felt himself flying involuntarily. He gasped as he realized the beast had thrown him, just in time to slam into the ground. He felt a sickening crack and spat out a mouthful of blood. His vision was fading as he tried to survey the scene. He struggled to his hooves wincing as he felt his cracked ankle take on some weight. His heart sank as he spotted his wing on the ground near him tipped in blood. Feeling more tears mixing with blood and sweat and now dirt as it rolled down his cheek. He took a shaky breath and lifted his head somehow managing to find the beacon of light. The beast was staring at it as it began to pulse. He tried to call out but all that escaped was a cough. He looked up at the beast who was raising an Limb something bright and pointing adorning the top of it as it craned away from the three in an arch. "Is it gonna, throw something at them?" He tried to make out the object. "Is that?" he staggered spitting something up again with a cough. "My...horn?" he thought and he traced the arch with his eye... "no" He whispered shaking violently as he moved toward the beacon. The massive limb was at its highest point now any second and it'd take its shot. He choked out another sickening cough and broke into a wobbly trot. The beast took it's shot flipping it's limb and launching his horn toward the beacon "It can't take much longer now" he thought frantically " I just have to protect them a little longer" he begged his body to cooperate as he took off toward them "NO!" he shouted as he charged ... He could see the horn flying faster than he ever did on his wings as he shook violently. "Hooves don't fail me now" He begged. Fighting a chuckle with a cough. He could see his horn now and he jumped in front of it. He felt it pierce his flank and his twisted away from the beacon finally collapsing on the ground. He shook and his blood stained vision darkened he didn't have the strength to get up again this time. "Plea..." *he coughed as he gasped for more air "please...stop..." his eye slowly closed and sound muffled grimly as he spit a bit of blood out with a jolt his eye finally closed and he couldn't hear anything anymore "him" he trailed off and everything faded to dark silence. "..Sta..." He winced a bit "Star...art!" His furrowed his brow as he strained to listen "STARHEART!" He opened his eye and looked up. It was blurry at first but it cleared quickly "C...Celestia?" he tried to sit up "DON'T MOVE!" Yelled a voice that came into view. He nodded slightly and lie still "Are...Are we dead?" He blinked taking in the radiant form of Celestia. She shook her head "No" She smiled "Dear Starheart, Starswirl's spell defeated that creature" she approached and bowed her head down low. "and we Owe you our victory" She said in a melodic tone as she raised herself "If not for your bravery we would never have completed that spell" She sit and her smile faded "Do you" her expression was pained now "do you recall your injuries?" He closed his eye and opened it again. wincing with a jolt..."Yes" he said through a twinge of pain. "I am sorry Starheart." She said with a sad tone "If only-" He sat up gritting his teeth "Stop!" He barked as he laid on his stomach his body screaming in pain. "I did what I had to, to be sure you could save Equestria" he said flatly. "I'd do it again too, as many times as I had to" he bowed his head slightly wincing again "Celestia" He closed his eye again. Celestia smiled at him standing "Nevertheless, we have prepared you a gift for your heroism" She turned and signaled to a guard who wheeled in a Mannequin with a brilliant Golden suit of armor his wing adorned the Right side and his horn was seated firmly in the head piece along with a brilliant eye piece on the right side. "Starswirl himself enchanted this armor for you" She smiled Weakly "With it you should be able to use your magic again..." she dropped her eyes "Should the need arise" She looked up at him again. He coughed sending a wave of pain up his body and shook as he climbed off the bed wincing. He stood before Celestia and bowed down low "Thank you for this gift your highness, May the Reign of you and your sister last for all time" He stood again and swayed nearly falling. He felt something brace him and looked to see Celestia's side pressed against his own. "Thank You Starheart...for protecting us, so we could save our Equestria" She smiled and moved around hugging him lightly. His eye widened and he winced at her touch. Before he returned the hug. ______
MeetingsChapter 5 Meetings _______________ Present Day - Ponyville - Sugarcube Corner _______________ He took a deep breath as he smiled glancing at the mirror again. "Not quite the same Brash young Alicorn General now are we?" He said chuckling softly as he closed the book. "Excuse me" said an unfamiliar voice. He looked up a bit surprised to see a young purple Alicorn before him. "Oh, um yes?" He put a hoof on the letter he'd forgotten to slide back into the page of the book. "I'm sorry to bother you" The Alicorn said softly "But I couldn't help noticing that book you have there" Shes said pointing at his journal on the table. "It's just that I work in a library and I'm sure I've never seen that one." Her eyes were full of wonder. Starheart smiled "No you wouldn't have, this is from my private collection" he said eliciting a notable look of curiosity from the Mare. "There aren't any other copies of this one, it's one of a kind" He said putting a hoof on it. "Oh I see" She said a bit hopeful "It's just that I've seen book covers and bindings similar to that one, but they were in the Starswirl the bearded wing at the Library in Canterlot" She added with a barely restrained tone of excitement. He chuckled softly "Ahh" he looked over her face mentally comparing it to the photograph. "Twilight Sparkle" he thought. "I take it you're a fan of Starswirl?" He asked calmly. The Mares eyes seemed to Light up like never before. He smiled certain that he had found and sparked one of her interests. "My Teacher told me so much about him" she was practically beaming now "And I never miss a chance to visit the traveling museum when it comes through Ponyville" He smiled watching her clearly excited face for a moment. "Oh, my goodness where are my manners" She said finally blushing very lightly "I'm Twilight Sparkle" she raised a hoof across the table. "Starheart" he replied pressing his hoof against hers and shaking her hoof softly "It's a Pleasure to meet you Princess Twilight" he said bowing his head slightly. She seemed a little curious as she stared at him for a moment. It was clear that she was uncertain about him. "I don't mean to be nosy b-" "HEY!" said the voice that interrupted "Twilight, the cupcakes are done. If you don't Hurry Rainbow Dash might eat yours too " she said almost bouncing as she said it. Turning toward Starheart in the same moment she bounced again "Hi" she smiled. "I'm Pinkie Pie whats your name?" He smiled at her brightly "I'm Starheart" He replied holding out a hoof toward her. "It's nice to meet ya Starheart" she added with undisguised excitement before gasping suddenly "Oh my gosh" she said disappearing into the back of the shop. Twilight rolled her eyes "You'll have to excuse Pinkie Pie, she really is wonderful but she takes some getting used to" She said kindly He shook his head "It's No problem Twilight Sparkle, I think she's wonderfully energetic" He replied. "So you were s-" "Twilight" interrupted another voice "I'm so so sorry to bother you darling, but you see Rainbow Dash is getting quite impatient and has been staring at your cupcake rather aggressively." She took a glance at Starheart "and How is this" she seemed to grimace slightly "er- um "charming" fellow Twilight I don't believe we've met before" "Oh I'm sorry, Rarity this is Starheart" Twilight replied "Starheart this is my friend Rarity" she added He Raised a hoof toward her "A pleasure to make your acquaintance Miss Rarity" he said softly. She eye'd his hoof with something between curiosity and disgust, a bit surprised by the tone of his greeting giving an uncertain smile as she pressed her hoof to his "Charmed I'm sure Mr. Starheart" she said calmly "If you'll please excuse me. I need to rejoin the others. She bowed her head slightly and and moved away back toward the table. "Oh okay" Twilight called after her. She turned back toward Starheart "I'm sorry Mr. Starheart I really need to go before my friend gets too impatient" She starts toward her friends "It was nice to meet you" she added before trotting away to her friends. Starheart smiled waving after her before looking down at the letter again. "Hmm Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Applejack " he whispered "Looks like I have quite a interesting mission this time" He said softly "Just what have you gotten me into Celestia?" He asked the letter quietly. Author's Note And...there you have it the origins of My OC Starheart. Don't worry there is more to come just wanted to establish the character before I start on the next part that is set in the modern time. I hope you like it. Still Welcoming Constructive Criticism.
