My life with death.

by Koren

Rating: teen
Tags: Dark, Alternate Universe, Sad, Adventure
Length: 18369

Revenant Gaze. A mare whose name reveals more then she will. With her talent, the ability to see the dead, she tries to talk with the spirits with hopes that she can help them move on from the world they linger in.

Revenant Gaze. A mare whose name reveals more then she ever will. When she was young, she cast a spell on herself. A spell that gave her the ability to see the dead. Now, with her talent, she tries to talk to the spirits that walk the plane of existence with hopes that she can get them to move on.

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2014-12-06 01:52:33 UTC

Together again.

Chapter One: Together again.

“Thank you. Thank you so much.” The older stallions cries to me. “I could. . I could never repay you for this. What you did for me wa-” I hold up my dark, grayish purple hoof up to him.

"Please, you don't have to do anything," I say as a smile touches my lips. “I need no repayment of any kind. Knowing that I was able to help is always good enough for me.” I give a small smile, and turn away from him. I feel the gentle breeze rustle my dark purple mane and tail. Both of which are messy, and adorned with red highlights. I made it to the middle of the walkway before he called to me again.

“I can’t just let you walk away without something. Please, come inside again. Join us. .  . Me for dinner.” He smiles, and holds out his hoof. I give him a frown, but he keeps persisting. I reach out my hoof, and he shakes it hard. “Oh, thank you.” He smiles again.

He brings me to the dining room of his small wooden house. “Just take a seat. . . You know what? I don’t think I ever got your name."

“Revenant Gaze.” I said quickly. I just want to get out of here as fast as possible. I’ve got business to do. But. . I can’t just be rude.

“That is my name. Most think it refers to my piercing dark purple eyes.  Which I can’t really say is false. But, it doesn't refer to my eyes, but what they can do. My talent is the ability to see the dead as you already know.” I continue, and laugh slightly.

“Ghosts, apparitions, spirits, spectators. Whatever you may call them, I can see them. I can see the ones who haven’t crossed over. Those with business left in this world. Whether they know it or not, if I can see them then that means they are missing something that prevents them from moving on. Well, I guess there are ones that want to stay on this side. But, in time, I see them leave this plane of existence for the next.” I sigh, as I continue speaking. It feels good to talk sometimes.

“Yeah. That’s an interesting talent indeed. If I may ask, Revenant. How did you discover your talent?” The old stallion asks from the kitchen. I look over, and see him working away, preparing the food.

“Well I had been experimenting with my magic, after coming across this old book in my fathers study. I found what, at the time, I thought was a funny spell. A spell that said it would give me ‘The clearest vision ever. Just chant the spell, and see what you thought was inconceivable.’” I let out a long sigh.

“Yeah. I wish it had just told me ‘Hey, you’ll see the dead.’ That would have made things simple. But, no. I foolishly did the spell. I closed my eyes, and felt my silver magic aura sweep over my body. I felt my eyes warm up slightly. And, once the spell had subsided, I opened my eyes and saw. . . Nothing. At all. I looked around, and still saw nothing more than what I did before.  I looked over myself and saw nothing out of the ordinary as well.” I leave a long pause, and glance down to my cutie mark.

The stallion took notice of my glance at my flank and cutie mark “Ah. So that was it? You did the spell and got your cutie mark?” The stallions laughs. “Seems to easy.”

“Yeah. I wish it was that easy to get a cutie mark.” I say and laugh as well.  “No, The spell didn't give me my cutie mark. But it did lead to me acquiring it."

It’s a very intricate looking crescent moon. I call it a moon, but really it’s just a fancy looking circle, because the points meet each other. Just looking at it, you can't tell that my  talent is to see the dead.

"But when I look at it, I know what it means. It’s the moon. A crescent moon. When you look up into the crescent moon at night, when you look up at the infinite space above, you are looking at something that’s there. But, you are also looking at something you can’t really interact with. Sure, if you get close enough you can touch it, but from far away, you are just left to wonder how cold, and lonely it must feel. . . .” I sit in silence.

“Wow. That’s pretty deep.” I hear the stallion say.

“Anyways, I’m getting side tracked. I was still young, and school was just about to start up again. It was my first day of fourth grade. I came into class, and all the seats had already been taken. Well, all except one that was behind some blue colt, towards the middle of the classroom. I shrugged, sighed, and took the seat.”

“After a couple minutes the teacher came in. ‘Hello class.’ She greeted cheerfully. ‘Let’s all start with introductions. I’m Melody.’ She then had us introduce ourselves. Going up every row of seats, from left to right. It got to the middle row, and one by one, my school mates introduced themselves.”

“‘And you, little filly?’ She had asked me, even though she should’ve asked the clot in front of me.”

“‘Um. . What about him?’ I had asked, and pointed to the blue colt in front of me.  I heard some of the class giggle. The teacher gave me a confused look, and the pink filly two seats up gave me a nasty look.” I continue telling my story. I haven’t thought about this. . In forever, really.

“‘I already said who I am. . And, I’m a ‘her,’ thank you very much.’ the filly said snobbishly.” I laugh slightly at the memory of my classmate.

“‘Not you, Roxy.’ I said to her. “‘Him. The blue colt, right in front of me.’ By now, most the class was laughing, and the teacher and Roxy just looked at me angrily. The colt, on the other hoof, just looked at my with wide eyed astonishment.” I pause for a moment as the stallion walked back into his dining room, taking a seat to listen to my story up close, instead of from the kitchen.

“‘Just say your name, so we can move on. There is no colt there!’ The teacher growled, nearly yelled at me really. I gave up, and complied. The minutes ticked by, and I just glared at the colt who had gotten my in trouble. The bell rang, and the class was let out for lunch.”

“‘Are you going out?’ The teacher asked me, and I just shook my head at her ‘No, sorry ma’am. I’m just going to eat in here, then read. If that’s ok?’ She just kind of frowned at me. Acted very hesitantly.”

“‘Well. . . I would really prefer it if you just went out to eat.’ She said, and kept that frown on her face. ‘I’ll be fine. It’s no problem, really. Please?’ I asked, with the biggest smile I could muster.”

"After a minute, she finally sighed. ‘Fine. But, please, be careful. Ok? I’m heading out to the teachers lounge.’” I feel all the memories flooding back to me.

“I  gave a smile to her, nodding happily. ‘I promise.’ She gave a weak smile, and left the room. My smile instantly dropped into a frown as I glared at the colt who was still sitting in front of me. ‘What’s the deal, buddy?’ I asked him, and walked around his desk to stand in front of him. ‘Well? What’s your problem. Why didn't you speak up?’” I move my hooves as i act out my story to the stallion, who’s smiling at me while he listens.

"‘Well.’ He spoke out quietly, obviously nervous. His voiced sounded raspy as though it hadn't been used in a while. I just kept my glare on him as he squirmed in his seat. ‘N-n-normally. . . Normally ponies can’t. . See me. Or talk to me. or anything.'

'Why?' I asked him, wondering what could be so off putting about this colt that it would keep other ponies from acknowledging him.  'Because' he said after a long pause 'I’m dead.’ I opened my mouth to say more, but it just hung open as my eyes widened.”

“‘W-what? You’re dead? A ghost?’ I spoke slowly, my head already shaking. ‘No no no. That’s not possible. There’s no such thing as ghosts.’ His nervousness turned into anger and he glared at me.”

“‘Don’t call me a liar!” He shouted. ‘It’s true. I’m dead. I died a long time ago. In this room. . .’ His shouts quieted down, and he sniffed a little. ‘It’s true. . . I’m dead.’ He repeated, as tears started to drip from his eyes. I watched as they fell, and watched as they. . . Just disappeared half way down, before they even reached the desk.”

“‘No. You can’t be a ghost. You’re right there in front of me.” My mind had completely rejected the idea that there could be such things as ghosts. Not because I was scared and afraid of them. But, I was scared and afraid for them. It would be horrible. To die, but wake up trapped on this planet. Not knowing how to leave this place.” I stay quiet for a moment, then continue my story.

“‘What are you doing?’ The teacher asked, as she walked back into the room. To her, she just saw me standing there in front of an empty desk.” I chuckle lightly.

“‘Nothing. I was just wondering if. . If I should sit here instead.’ I had came up with the quick excuse. ‘You cant. You already have your seat. It’s assigned now.’ she spoke quickly. Almost. . . Almost fearful that I would take that seat.  ‘I like the other seat better, so that’s good.’ I said and quickly walked back to sit in my seat. The colt just sat there crying, unseen by everyone else except for me, softly.”

“‘Umm. Hey?’ I spoke up after a minute or two. Both the teacher and colt looked at me. It was at this point that I noticed he was see through. Not entirely, but, if I looked hard enough, I could barely make out the outline of the teachers desk through him.”

“‘Yes?’ The teacher spoke up and smiled at me. ‘This is. . This is going to sound weird, but. . Um. Has anypony ever. . Died at this school? I know it’s a dark question, but I heard some stories, and I was just wondering. . ‘ The teachers smile dropped into a frown after I asked that.”

“‘That is a dark question, but if you heard the rumors, I guess I have to tell you the truth. Just so you don’t get confused. But, you can’t tell anyone else this. . . It’s not something that should be talked about openly.’:

“She kept that frown as she stood up, and walked over to the desk the colt was sitting at. ‘Yes, a pony did die here, in this class. A few years ago. It was a sad day. He was loved by a lot. It was actually my first day teaching here. He was young, happy, and energetic. Always smiled. His name was Ashen Finis.’ She talked about the colt, and he just sat there, looking between both of us.”

“She now had more of a. . . Sad smile on her face, and I could see the beginnings of tears in her eyes. ‘He had been. . . Beaten. . .  By some older students. The ponies that beat him up. . The ones who killed him. Nothing happened to them. Because ‘they were minors.’' She added this last part with some venom in her voice, as though this was an offense to her. 'Plus, their parents were really rich.’ She stopped talking for a moment, clearly trying to hold back her tears.  ‘I had. . . I had left the room. I arrived too late. he was. . He was already gone.’

“She sniffed hard,failing at holding back her tears. ‘If only I hadn’t left. . If only.  . . ‘ She mumbled to herself.” I pause and look to the stallion.

“Yikes. That must be a horrible feeling.” I nod, and continue after he finishes speaking.

“‘I don’t blame her.’ The colt speaks up. He looked right at me, very determined to be heard. ‘It’s not her fault. She’s a great teacher. That’s why I’m here. I love listening to her lessons.’ He smiled at me. I didn’t know what to do.”

“But, you know, that had explained things. Why she yelled there wasn’t a colt there, why she hesitated to leave me alone. . And why she didn’t want his seat taken. The colt spoke up again. ‘Can you tell her that. . Please?’ Ashen asked. . And, I nodded to him.”

“‘He doesn’t blame you. He knows it’s not your fault that he’s gone.’ I spoke to her, and reached out my hoof to place on her back. She looked up, more of an angry frown on her face now.”

“‘What do you know?” She growled at me, snapping at me and pushing away my hoof. ‘You just asked about it because of the rumors. The ones they say, the ones that  say I left him for dead as he was beaten up.’ I quickly shook my head at that, taking a few steps so as to not make her angry again.””

“‘No. I asked because I can see him. He’s still sitting there. Still smiling. he thinks you're a great teacher, and wants to sit through your lessons.’ I told her slowly. Having a hard time even believing my own words.”

“Yeah. I bet that would be hard. I know I didn’t believe you.” The stallion speaks up. “Oh, sorry. Continue your story.”

“‘Is he. . . Is he really?’ She asked me, and I gave a nod. ‘Yes. He is there. I can see him. His blue fur. Shaggy gray mane, and silver eyes. Short stubby tail.’ I described him to her slowly, with each feature she smiled more and more. Tears freely running down her face.”

“‘Tell her to not cry. I hate to see her cry. She used to cry a lot after I died. During every lunch time.’ I gave him a nod. ‘He says to not cry. He doesn’t like seeing you cry.’ I repeated his words to her.”

“‘Oh Ashen. . . My brother. Always looking out for his sister.’ She sniffs, and leans against his desk. ‘He really is there? He’s always been there?’ She asked, but it wasn’t much of a question. She just wanted to hear it again, really. ‘Yes. He’s there.’”

“‘I’ll always be here. Until you have to join me.” He said. ‘He’ll always be there.’ I told her with a smile. leaving out that last part for obvious reasons.”

“‘Is there anyway you can let me see him? Like you can?’ I really had to think about that. I really wasn’t sure if i could. . . or wanted to for that matter. But, I decided I should give it a shot.”

“‘I’m not sure. . I know a spell. . I could try it on you. . . But, I don’t want to make you like me’ She gave a small nod ‘I understand that. But, it would be worth it. To see Ashen again. Anything would be worth it.”

“I lit up my horn, and let my silver aura wrap around her. And even though I was young, and barely had any control over my magic, I felt something. Something deep in my mind. Something guiding me. It helped me move my magic aura over Ashen as well. I saw his form flash slightly, and I watched as Miss Melody's closed eyes flashed as well.”

“I watched her open them slowly.  I saw as she looked at him directly for the first time in what had been years for her. I watched the small smile on her face as she cried tears of joy. They didn’t say anything to each other, they didn’t need to really. I just sat in my seat, and watched this small reunion of a lost family.”

“It was then that I felt the warmth on my flank. I glanced down and saw the moon that would adorn my flank. To most foals that age, when they get their cutie mark, it’s a big deal. They jump, and scream. I just sat there instead, with a small smile.”

“And, after a couple minutes of joyful tears, the teacher looked to me. ‘Thank you. I really owe you one for this.’ I shook my head at her. ‘No. You don't owe me anything, other than that thank you. This is what I am meant to do. And, really, all I can ask for is your thanks.’ I smiled at her, and she smiled back.”

“Hm. Sounds familiar.” The stallion said, teasing me. I stick my tongue out at him.

“Hush. Let me finish my story.” He smiles, and motions his hoof across his mouth, ‘zipping’ it closed.

“‘Then thank you again. Really, Revenant. It means a lot to me.’ I give a small nod. We both heard the small chatter and hoof steps of students starting to head back to the room.”

“‘Think you can keep it together for the rest of class?” Melody rolled her eyes, and nodded slowly. She took her place behind her desk, and I just stayed in my seat. We both watched as the students filled back into the room. Oblivious to our extra classmate, oblivious to the events that just happened. Oblivious to my newly aquired cutie mark. But, both me and Melody looked at each other, giving a small nod.”

“We knew. That’s all that mattered. A brother and a sister reunited. Together again.”

An Accident.

Chapter Two: An accident.

“These are your messes! And I’m just cleaning them up!? Is that all I am to you!? You just needed me for your mistakes? You just needed a little obedient maid?. . . . “

I shot up out of bed. My eyes wide, and panting hard. A cold sweat has covered me in my panic. I bring my hooves up, resting my head against them, trying to ease the pain. “Why?” I speak out. Getting up out of the bed, I walk up to the room window, looking out onto the small village. One that’s very reminiscent of my home town. The moon is also visible in this night time sky. Big, bright, and round. Looming above this village.  “Why must you still torture me?” I ask out, as I turn to look back into the empty room that surrounds me.

“Even though I’m so far from home and from you.  Why do you still haunt me! Why can’t you just leave it be!” I start to shout at the nothingness. I fall down, collapsing onto the ground. “Why.” I start to sob gently. I hear a couple solid thuds from the room above me.

“Hey! Some ponies are trying to sleep. Keep it down!” I hear the muffled shouts. I just lay on the ground, softly sobbing in the moonlit room.

“Please. . Why can’t you just tell me?” I continue to sob gently, the darkness closing and suffocating around me. I hear the door open, and light from the hallway pours in and shatters the self induced nightmare.  I couldn't care less at the moment who it was, and just stay there on the ground, curled up with my woe.

“Revvy? What’s wrong? I heard you yell. . Why are you crying?” I hear the familiar voice speak out. I look up, my eyes bloodshot from my crying.

“It’s nothing Roxy. It’s just. . . “ I trail off as I stare back out of the window. “That nightmare, again.” Roxy. The same pink prissy filly that I met at school so many years ago, but not the same as before.  I met her the same day I discovered my talent. Safe to say we didn’t start off on a good note after she thought I called her a colt.  But we got past that.

She had a long, neat and prim two tone mane, and long flowing tail. I had both of mine messily cut short. She had rich parents, and a big mansion. My family wasn't poor, but my father always believed in the importance of equality, so he was never a heavy spender. When I lived with him it was in a nice house towards the edge of town. Thinking back on these thoughts it brought up issues that I hadn't resolved from my past with her.  It was in middle school when everything changed.

“Hey Roxy?” I ask her as I stand up from the bedroom floor. “Do you remember why we became friends?” She gives me a confused look.

“Um. Yeah. Middle school. We shared a home room class with Mr. Stern. . . Right?” I smile and nod slowly.

“Yeah. That's right. But, do you remember how exactly we became friends?” She shakes her head gently, creases forming on her forehead while the corners of her mouth turn down a little as she reaches for the memory.

“No. . Now that I think about it, I don’t really. It just kind of happened, right?” I shake my head slowly.

“I wish it had just happened. You don’t remember. That’s pretty normal for people around me. Most choose to not remember, though I don’t think you had ever gotten that choice. . . “ I pause for a moment and walk back to my bed. “Here, come sit. I have a story to tell you.” She keeps her confused gaze on me as she walks over, gently sitting on the edge of the bed, right next to me.

“It was in middle school.  I had gotten lost in our school when. . . . “

Years ago.

  Finally. I found my classroom. With a small smile, I push the door open, and step inside. No teacher, weird.  But, there is a pink mare in here. Her mane cut really short, shorter than even mine. A very. . . Punkish look, if you ask me. “Hey there.” I call over to her, waving. She gives me a look of complete disinterest.

  I stay quiet for a second as I walk to a desk. A desk that’s a length’s away from her. “Well. . Umm. I’m Rev-” She holds up her hoof, making me go quite.

  “Listen. If I don’t ask, you don’t tell. Ok?” He voice sounds rough, as if she had spent a long time screaming. I give a small nod to her. “Good. Now, please just shut up. I was trying to nap before anyone got here and I don’t want you ruining that.” She lays her head against the desk again.

Present

  “I had no idea that you were the same filly that just before summer break that year had a long mane, and liked wearing dresses. Come to find out that you had cut your own mane and started making rock music.” She laughs slightly, her hoof reaching up to mess with her long mane.

   “Yeah. Personally, I like this look better. Was I really that much of a bitch?” I give a small nod, sticking out my tongue.

“Kinda yeah. But there’s a big reason why you stopped acting like that. The reason we became friends. Roxy. . Promise me that you won’t hate me for this. . I’m sorry I've kept this hidden for so long. . “ She wraps her hooves around me, holding me in a gentle, friendly hug.

“I could never hate you. I know how you are, and how you can be. If you had to erase a part of my memory, you must of had a good reason. You don’t need to tell me, if you don't want to.” I shake my head, and pull out of the hug.

“No. I have to tell you. Not for your sake, but for mine.  I have to get it off my chest so, please just listen and try not to hate me.” I take a deep calming breath, and continue with my story. “I don’t know why, but I kept trying, and trying to become friends with you. Yet every attempt I made, just led to you shooting me down.”

Years ago.

  “Why? Why do you keep trying. Do you really think a freak like you could just hop in, and try to be normal? It’s impossible. Why do you even try?” She snaps at me, with a sneer on her face. It had been a week since I first tried talking to her in the class room. I had been walking alone, when I heard sobbing coming from the back of the library.

When I got back there, I found Roxy. She was definitely crying. But when she heard me approach, she took one final sniff and hid her tears. I had tried to comfort her, ask her what’s wrong. But she just snapped at me, and lashed out.

   “Please, Roxy. I’m only trying to help. I’m not trying to fit in. I’m not trying to pretend to be normal. I’m just trying to help those who need it.” She brings her hoof up, and smacks me.  I suck in a breath of air out of shock.  I hadn't expected her to get violent.

  “Well who said I need your help?! You’re just a freak who claims she can see dead ponies. . . . “ I watched as a malicious grin grew on her face, unnerved by her sudden shift. “Fine. You want to be friends, we can. Only if you prove to me and the others that you can really see the dead. Come to my house tonight. I'm having a party then and you're talent can be the main attraction.”

I should just walk away. I should turn down her offer. The way she’s looking at me worries me. I was thinking hard to myself, but in the end, I just gave her a nod. “I’ll be there.” I said.

Later that night, after my dad had gone to bed, or more accurately fell asleep at his study desk.  I snuck out through my bedroom window. Thank Celestia for having a ground floor room. I pulled out of my saddle bag a small piece of paper that gave me directions to Roxy’s house. Though, I really didn’t need it. Everyone knows where she lives. It’s practically the biggest house in the whole town.

After a few minutes, I reached her front door, and knocked. “Jeez. There you are! Come on, you're missing the party.” Roxy greeted me, already acting as if we were friends. She wrapped her hoof around me, dragging me inside, and I heard the door slam closed behind me. Too late to turn back now.

“Hey, everyone. Our guest of honor is here.” There weren't many ponies there. I recognize two mares here, both of them share our home room. Not only that, those two and Roxy have some sort of band together. Aside from them, a few other ponies are spread here and there through out the first floor of the mansion, sitting around, laughing and drinking. I would say about six guests including me, with Roxy and her twin sister Swing hosting.

As I walked further inside, I immediately realized my mistake. I should have noticed something was wrong with her the moment I saw her. But now I am looking right into her eyes, and can’t do anything but swallow some air.

  Swing. . . She had died right before summer started. No one knows what happened for sure. It was labeled an accident. . .  Though there was talk that it was suicide. They say she slipped, or maybe even jumped, into the river and the current had carried her under, causing her to drown. But if it was an accident, then no one knows why she was there, or how she would’ve slipped in. There was no evidence that pointed to a clear answer.

  I stand there staring at her,  and she just stares back at me. Something feels off about her.  Her eyes seem more sunken in then the spirits that I've dealt with already, and her coat is darker than the other ghosts who look lighter by comparison. I still can’t tell what's putting me on edge though. “Yo? You there?” I hear Roxy laugh at me, as she waves her hooves in front of my face. I nod slowly, still looking straight at Swing.

“Yeah. . Sorry about that. . Just spacing off.” I hear Roxy laugh a little more.

  “Pph. Freak.” I hear her whisper, though, I’m sure she meant for me to hear it. I let out a sigh, just wanting to leave.

“How do you want me to prove it?” I state out loud.  Roxy gives me a funny look.

  “Hm? What do you mean?” I glare at her.

“You told me to come here so I can prove that I see the dead.” Every pony starts to laugh. And I feel my anger rising. “And I can prove it beca-” Roxy holds up her hoof, laughing along with the rest.

“Calm down. Jynx, grab the book.” I see the blue, spiky maned unicorn mare walk into another room. “I’m going to have Jynx cast a spell from this book my dad got a while ago. One that will supposedly call forth a spirit. Or something like that.”

“You shouldn’t meddle with these things. Trust me.” I warn her, already having dealt with a spell I didn't fully understand myself.  Roxy just laughs at my comment as she takes a big drink, straight out of one of the bottles lying about.

  “Mm. Gotta say, my parents have good taste in alcohol.” She laughs. I see Jynx walk back into the room, carrying a very old, worn looking book. One that is all too familiar to me.

  “Where did you get that book?” I ask her, and she shrugs.

  “I dunno. Ask Roxy.” She points to her, and Roxy shrugs as well. Answering before I can ask again.

“It's my fathers. I don’t know where he got it from exactly, but he always liked collecting these old things. Said he bought it off a friend who wanted to ‘make some room on those dusty shelves.’” I look at the book, seeing the silver archaic writing along it’s binding.

I think back to a few weeks ago, to what my own father had said about selling the book.  I was sitting in his study as I watched him write. I looked at his book case, and saw an empty slot. “What happened to the book that went there?” I had asked him, looking at all the other shelves of books. There’s never an empty space.

“Don’t worry Revenant.  I sold it to a friend. Just wanted to make some room on these dusty shelves for more useful books.”

It’s too much of a coincidence to be an actual coincidence.  My dad had sold Roxy’s father that book. But why? That book had been gifted to him by the Royal Canterlot Library!  It contains old, powerful magic, something no average pony without the proper knowledge should have a hold of.

“We shouldn’t do this.” I say warningly. “It’s stupid. . We should just stop.”

“So, your saying that you lied to us then? You can’t see the dead?” I hear Roxy ask mockingly.

“No I can. But.” Before I say more, Roxy just cuts me off.

“Then lets prove it.” I watch in frozen horror as Jynx opens the book. A mint blue aura surrounds her  horn. I hear her slowly recite the words of the spell.

A dark, icy cold voice spoke up from behind me, releasing a petrifyingly chilly scoff that rolled across my neck.  “You should have warned them more. Really.”  It had came from the spirit of Swing who then walked in front of me.  I was completely stunned.  I couldn’t move anything other than my eyes, my limbs refusing to budge, either out of some self induced fear or by a body binding spell.  I glance around to see everyone else in the same situation. Jynx is stuck by the book with a pained look on her face, eyes opened wide and darting around in terror.  Her horn is still glowing from the spell.

I feel the numbing coldness of Swing's hoof, as it passes through me. I collapse to the ground, released from the spell, gasping to draw in enough air. “What do you want?” I ask breathily as I attempt to stand up. Every ponies eyes are on me. “Tell me what you want Swing!” I shout at her. I watch the others eyes dart around, clearly not being able to see her.

  “You ask me what I want?  I.  Want.  Revenge.” She speaks coldly as she turns to look at the frozen Roxy. “I want revenge for the cause of my ‘accident.’” I look Roxy in the eyes and I see her panicking with the need to move.  I hear Swing hiss, as she touches Roxy. She falls to the ground, gasping. “Revenant.” She speaks out to me. “What's going on?”

“Ask her! Ask her what caused my death!” Swing shouts to me.

  “Roxy. . What caused Swing to die. Tell me the truth.” She's struggling to stand, but freezes in place.

“What makes you think I know?” she yells at me. I glare at her, and let my horn light up. My aura covers her and Swing and I watch her eyes flash silver from the spell.

  “Now tell me.” I demand, and watch as she looks at Swing.  The color drains from her pink face at the sight of her departed sister.

  “I. . I didn’t mean to. . If I didn’t then. . . Then she would’ve done the same to me.” She says slowly, looking her dead sister in the eyes. “She was going to shove me into the river.” She whispers this and I reel back in shock not expecting to hear this tale.

  I hear Swing laugh wickedly. “Ohh yes. I was going to get rid of the pest that no one wanted. The outcast of the family that always acted out, never followed rules.  Without her our family could have been perfect.”

  “Stop it! Revenant, get rid of this illusion. Please.” She pleaded, the words the apparition was saying having a negative effect on her.  I shake my head slowly and sorrowfully.

  “No.” I say in a grim tone. “That is no illusion. That is your sister. I wasn’t lying about my ability.” I need to stay calm.I need to find out how to make Swing move on. I need to find the way to make her leave for good before something dangerous happens.   I thought as Swing circles her still living twin,

“Well. The pest has gone on long enough. It’s time to finally squash the bug of the family.” I hear Swings tone grow darker. I watch as she begins to radiate with a dark aura that spreads like water from her mane until it pools at her hooves. “Hm. I think this would be fitting.” I feel my hooves grow cold.

I look to the ground to see it slowly filling with water. “You can’t do this! Look at the innocent ponies you’re going to kill!”

   “Do you think I care?” She laughs at me. “I’m doing you a favor. What have these ponies done for you? Other than torment you and cause you pain?” I sigh.

  “Nothing. They’ve done nothing for me, expect cause me pain. But, that doesn't mean they should die.  They still have a chance at life. You lost your chance when you tried to take your sisters life, and you got what was coming to you. Taking others lives just for revenge won’t help.” I speak slowly, working my way closer to Swing. Well, really, I’m working my way to the book. If I can get it away from Jynx, that should stop the spell, and stop feeding Swing with energy.

“Fine. You can just die with them then.” I see her dark aura lash out towards me in a concentrated whip. I glare and dive forward towards the book. I feel the heat of stinging pain shoot through my side as one of her dark tendrils passes through my flank with an almost physical feel.  I let out a loud yelp as I land on the book. "I'm a ghost.  You can't kill what's already dead with anything in that little spell book. What do you think you can possibly do against me?” She asks with a laugh, bringing her dark aura back up to lash out and finish me.

In my pain, I look down at the book under me. “The only thing I can do.” I say through gritted teeth, as I charge up my horn. She laughs more, and I see the darkness around her grow, and grow as the water begins to rise up close to my head. Only one shot, I think to myself as I take aim. I quickly read out the words for the spell on the next page. A banishment spell.

I watch my silver aura shoot out, and hit Swing. “Ha! Did you think that would really do any. . “ She stops, looking down as the water starts to disappear. “No. This can’t be happening. I’m much more powerful than that simple spell.” She yells, and I watch as her darkness drains away, bleaching all of the color from her coat and mane leaving only a shivering, black and white mare in it's absence.

   “No. Please. I don’t want to leave.” I glare at her as I stand up, a renewed strength in me, and walk closer to her, my horn glowing brightly.

  “We all have to leave one day and you should have left a long time ago. You had no reason to be here just to continue to torment your sister. I would’ve told you that I hope Faust has mercy on your soul. But after seeing you almost try to kill me and the others, I can’t. But, I can tell you this, I hope there’s a special place in Tartarus for you.”  I stand up straight and my horn gives off a flash that blinds everyone in the room

Present.

We both sit in silence. Minutes pass before I finally hear Roxy speak up. “That doesn't explain how I don’t remember that, or how we became friends.”

   “Well. After Swing vanished, I picked up the book and was able to cancel Jynx’s spell finally.  Everyone was asking me questions.  What had happened, what was going on, why couldn't they move. Some were running around freaking out about what had just transpired while others just curled up on the floor, unable to process the event that had occurred.  I looked down at the book hoping it would give me some wisdom instead of more strife to fix this mess. It was still opened to the bookmarked page for the summoning spell. It also had two other spells on that page. The banishment spell which had worked successfully, and a memory spell.” I pause for a moment, letting it sink in for Roxy.  She sit's on the bed, dumbfounded by the revelation of having a missing memory

“I was able to cast the memory spell. Everything about that night, all of you forgot. The next morning when I came into class, you smiled and called me over to sit next to you.”

She nods slowly. “Yeah. I remember the party. . We all got drunk and passed out and I can't recall anything after that part of the night. That morning when you came into class. . I was just happy to see my friend.” She smiles gently at me, giving another hug. “So, I never thanked you for saving me?”

   “No. You thanked me enough that night, before I cast the memory spell. Also when I left town, you came with me. Saying you wanted to help me on my travels. That’s more then enough thanks.”

She laughs slightly. “Anything for a friend, Revvy. So, that’s what happened that night?”

I nod slowly. “Yeah. I kept the book as well. That memory spell has come in handy. There are many ponies that are haunted by sins from the past that come back. Once I get their tormentor to leave, I ask if they want to forget about it.” Roxy nods slightly as I explain.

“But that night, you didn’t. Before that night I remember that I tore myself apart, always wondering why my sister had tried to kill me. I couldn't help but feel what had happened to her was my fault. . . and I guess it was my fault.” Roxy says slowly, sniffing.

I wrap my hooves around her, comforting her.  “Hey. Don’t blame yourself. You did what you had to do. And, I didn't ask that night because. . . I thought it was for the best to leave your sisters death as just an accident.”

And as we sat there comforting each other below the glistening moonlight, that's what we agreed on.

It was just an accident

A dance back home.

Chapter Three: A dance back home.

A dance. At this point, that’s what my life has become. A journey across this mystical land. Step by step, slowly but surely. With practiced, subtle but overwhelming, moves. It was just a simple routine of walking. But through the years that I’ve traveled, it has become a well performed waltz. Gently moving from place to place. Ponies in awe of seeing my talent, watching me restore the peace they once knew with my gentle moves.

It’s partly for efficiency, for being able to move from one place to another (quickly I might add), helps my job tremendously. But mostly?  Mostly it’s one of the only joyous things about my life that I can truly enjoy. It’s what I live for. The space between meeting one sad face, to leaving a hopefully happy one behind. The spaces where I, in a sense, just get to dance and be myself as I travel across the mystic land.

“What’cha writing?” I let out a gasp, and jump up slightly when I hear the inquisitive voice of Roxy right over my shoulder.

“Gah! Roxy! We’ve talked about this, do not sneak up on me. When did you even get into my room? How did you even get into my room?” I ask as I look at the closed door that has been in front of me the entire time I was writing. She puts her hoof to her mouth, trying to stifle a snicker.

And fails. “Oh come on, Revvy! I came in last night when you had your…” she raises her hoof and rubs at the back of her neck in mutual awkwardness. “Ah, break down. And I just crashed over there on the floor.” She points over to the other side of my bed. “Anyways, stop dodging my question. What are you writing?” I draw a quick breath in, and blush softly.

“It’s nothing, really.” I say as I close my journal. I try to give a convincing voice. I pick the book up in my magic, and hold it behind myself. “Believe me, you wouldn’t want to read what’s in it anyways.”

She gives me a frown, and looks down as she struggles with the book now in her hooves. “Stupid thing won’t even open anyways.”

“Hey! Give that back. You know, for an earth pony, you sure pull of some weird tricks.” She gives a shrug as I take my journal back from her. “And you can’t open it because I put a lock spell on it. Only I can open it.” I stick my tongue out at her, and she pouts at me.

“Really Revvy? I thought we were better friends than that. I thought you could trust me.” She feigns sadness and even adds in a small sniffle to her performance. I sigh and close my eyes.

“No. Roxy, it’s… personal. I’m. . . “ I let out a long sigh. “I’m writing a book. Ok? It’s my story. My life. . Everything.”   I look down at the ground, and idly move my hoof in a circle. Expecting her to laugh. To tell me how stupid that idea is. But I only sit in silence.

I look back up to see her sitting there with an astonished look on her face, mouth slightly parted open. As if for the first time she didn’t know what to say. “Oh. Revvy. You would actually publish your story? I mean, really. You’ve been through some tough shit. I don’t even know half of the things you do because of your stupid rule about not letting me go to your clients with you. Would you really want others to read that?” I shake my head.

“No. It’s only a dream. Really.” I say, and wave my hoof dismissively.

“Only a dream?! If that’s your dream, that means you should publish it someday. ” Roxy says with a bright smile on her face, trying to cheer me up.

“No. Roxy. . See. . . They wouldn’t be dreams if they came true. I want this to only be a dream. . . Only a dream.” I add as a whisper at the end, looking back at the journal.

“Oh. I guess that makes sense. Kind of.” She says and as she stands there, contemplating what next to do, her stomach gives a growl that could rival an Ursa Minor for sheer volume. She gives a sheepish grin. “So… You wanna go down and eat breakfast? I’m hungry, and we really should leave this place soon. Didn’t you say your next client was far from here?” She says, regaining her chirpy little smile.

“Food does sound good. And I have to cheek the book again.” She keeps smiling as I walk over to my saddle bag. With my magic, I open it and glance inside. I place my journal back into it, next to the other two. The big brown one that has many useful spells, the memory spell being one of them. And, the other book is a smaller one. The cover is bound in a black, satin material.

“You know. You always mention your client book. But I don’t think I’ve ever seen you use it. Despite all the years we've traveled together.” Roxy mentions dismissively as I open it up.

“Really?” I say as I give a shrug, opening it up. She nods and glances at it over my shoulder.

“Why’s it blank?” I laugh slightly and charge up my horn.

“It’s another magic enchantment thing. This one wasn’t my choice though. The book. . It has some sort of connection with the other plane of existence. It has many names. Some call it Tartarus. Which is wrong, that’s the plane of damnation. Some call it Purgatory, which I guess is close. I prefer calling it what it is. The plane of the departed.” I look to Roxy. She’s taken to laying on the ground while listening to my small lesson.

“What I have to do is channel some of my magic into the pages. Soon, they will fill with words. Of course most the pages will stay blank, but the first few pages will tell me about my next client. Where they live, and the troubles they are having with whatever spirit. Be it from your normal  lingering spirit, to a more dreadful haunting. The worst case scenario is a possession of course. But in those cases the book itself will glow, and alert me instantly.” I continue speaking, a small smile on my face. I’m surprised I’ve never told Roxy about this.

“That’s cool.” She says. She scoots a little closer. “So. Can you read past client info?”

I give a small nod. And she watches as words start forming on the front pages. Information about my next client. “If I want to bring it up, the book will let me, yes. And. . You know, this book has a weird way of working. It prioritizes clients over others sometimes. Though, I can never pick up on a pattern. I remember reading a clients info once, a haunting. A tormented spirit picking on a little foal. But then the book shifted to a lingering spirit.” I glance and see Roxy looking slightly confused. “That means that the client it shifted to was more important.” She gives a small nod.

“And.  . . . See look, it’s doing it again.” The words that had already formed on the page start shifting. Slowly making out a new client, and his or her information. Once the words have settled, I stare blankly at the page. “Oh no.”

“What?” I hear Roxy ask. She says more, but her words started fading. My entire focus on the client listed.

“Listen. Revenant. You wouldn’t understand. I did what I had to do. There. . . There was no way around it. I’m sorry, truly I am. But, I had to do what I did.” He speaks slowly and calmly as I just glare at him.

“I wouldn’t understand! Then why involve me? You could have just as easily done this yourself. So why me? Why does it have to be me?!” He moves forward slightly, holding out his hoof. Only for me to smack it away. He backs up, and frowns at me.

“Revenant. Dear. Please listen. It could only be you. It was my mistake. It was my fault.  It was all my mess, but it can only be you who-“

I cut him off quickly, yelling at him. “These are your messes! And I’m just cleaning them up!? Is that all I am to you!? You just needed me for your mistakes? You just needed a little obedient maid?”

“No. Revenant. It’s not like that at all. I told you that you wouldn’t understand. But if you listen to me, I can try to explain it. To make everything better-”

I cut him off again “No! You listen to me, and I’ll explain this. Don’t make my life worse, just because it will make your life better. You got yourself into this mess, so you can clean it up yourself.”

“Revenant!” I feel a sting on my cheek as I am brought out of my memory.

“Oh. . Sorry.” I say and place my hoof to my cheek, as I shake my head slightly. “I was remembering the fight because. . “ I look down at the page in the book, turning it around so Roxy can read it easily.

“Ignis. . . Your father is the client?” I give a slow nod.

“Yes. The client is Ignis. A stallion, unicorn pony.” I turn the book back to me, and slowly list off the information on the page metallically like a machine. “He lives at the edge of small town named Hollow Shades. Within the Hollow Shades forest. He has recently plagued with visions  of his deceased wife Oblivion. He has since shut himself away from the rest of the world, locking himself in his study. The only place he feels safe from the apparition. This is more than likely a haunting, and should be dealt with swiftly.” I pelt the book against the wall with my magic once I finish reading. My rage is unbridled at this offense.

“How dare you!” I shout at it. “My mother would never haunt my father! And anything that happens to him, he deserves it. I won’t help him, so give me the other client.” I charge up my horn and hold up the book, opening it, and waiting to see the pages change.

They don’t. “Woah. Calm down Revvy. I know you and your father got off on the wrong hoof when you left. But the book says that something has been severely tormenting him. And you’ve said so yourself, ‘It’s my job to help those, living or dead, find peace within this world. So one day they all can hopefully move on.’ “

“I know what I said!” I snap at Roxy. “But it was never my choice to take on this job! I know that, and he knows that!” I say, pointing to the book. “My father knows exactly why I have this job. He knows why this curse was thrown into my bucking hooves!” I collapse onto the ground, holding my head as I start to cry. “He’s the… bucking reason why.” I sniff out.

“Revvy. . . I don’t know why you do what you do. I’ve never asked why you do what you do, and I know if I did you would never tell me. But this only seems to be tormenting you more and more. Sure, your father may deserve what’s happening. But you don’t! So, you need to get off your sorry flank, and we need to go get on the next train to Hollow Shades. The next train home.”

I look up at her, a smile on my tear streaked face. She’s always cared so much for me. Ever since we started this journey. I could never thank her enough and. . I hear a loud growl, coming from her stomach. “The next train home, after breakfast that is.” I sit up, and start laughing, and Roxy laughs as well.

“You and your appetite. It’s a wonder you’re not fat!” I laugh and poke her stomach. She gives me a mock angry look.

“You’re one to talk! You eat more then me!” she laughs back, swatting my hoof away.

“Yeah. But I’m a unicorn. My magic burns off any extra fat. That’s why unicorns are always so sexy looking.” I taunt back to her, turning to the side slightly to strike a sexy pose.

“You sure? You are looking kinda pudgy.” She says and pokes my stomach, causing me to laugh.

“Shut it. And let’s go eat.”

Later.

“Guh. You know, I wish I knew that places food was so nasty!” I hear Roxy complain behind me, and I laugh slightly.

“I just think your standards are still to high! We’ve been traveling for a few years now, and you still complain at every place we eat at.” I hear her let out a grumble.

“Mm, whatever. I just don’t see what’s wrong. Why can’t anypony make good food! I mean, seriously, would it kill them if they tried or something?” I snicker to myself as she continues complaining.

“No. But it seems to be killing you that they don’t.” I say back to her as I pick up my pace slowly.

“Ha! See. You didn’t like the food either.” I roll my eyes and just keep walking. “So. Are we really going to head back?” I hear Roxy ask slowly. Unsure if she should really bring that topic back up.

“Yes. We’re going back home. I wish we both could be going back on better term. I wish it could just be a lovely visit, but it isn’t. It’s purely business. We are going to go in there, take care of his problem, and get out. No pleasantries. Just…” I let out a long sigh. “Just business like always.”

I let out another sigh, and then smile. Hopefully I can easily change the subject. “Hey, Roxy?” I look back and I see Roxy idly looking at the ground. She perks up though, and gives me a sad half smile. “How’s your first song going on? For your first gig. And speaking of that, when was it again?” She instantly perks up, rushing to walk right next to me. Now we were in a subject that she enjoyed.

“Oh Celestia, it’s been going well. I’ve got most of the actual music written out. Lyrics on the other hoof ain’t going to well. I’ve got barely a stanza written out. And the gig, well I need to contact my agent. You remember him, right? The goof in Manehatten, Gilded Record?” I give a small nod. “He’s got the exact time and date stuff worked out, but it should be next week sometime in Canterlot.”

We step into the train station and I quickly buy us tickets to Hollow Shades. “So, can I hear it? The lyrics that you’ve got worked out?” She blankly stares at me for a moment before laughing hard.

“Oh. Revvy, that’s funny. You know I can’t sing!” I give her one of the tickets I bought as she keeps laughing.

“Right. But, you’ve sung before, and you were pretty good!” She keeps laughing.

“Yeah. But I can’t sing lead. Sure I can do back up vocals, but never lead.” She laughs, and pretends to wipe away a tear from laughing so hard. I stick my tongue out at her.

“I guess that’s the point of the other band members. You only do drums right?” She gives a nod. “So, who’s your singer?”

“Gilded said that he had that worked out. He had some very reliable unicorn friends that could play guitar. I listened to them and they are good. As for the singer. I think that’s still in the works.” I give her a slight glare. She has that look on her face. The look that she’s trying to hide something.

“Mmhm. Sounds good.” I say keeping my glare on her as the train pulls into the station. The doors open, and we wait for some ponies to get off. Soon we enter the train and find a nice pair of empty seats to sit across from each other.

“Oh! Revvy, here.” She hands me a small piece of paper. “There’s the lyrics. If you wanted to read them.” I smile and take it in my magic aura. I unfold the paper, and read out the words.

“Roxy. This is pretty good.” She nods, looking at me expectantly. “What? What’s with that look?”

“Oh come on, Revvy. Sing it. You’ve done it before. In middle school and some of high school before we left. You’d read my lyrics and sing them out. It always helped. And come on, it would be like the good old times!” I let out a sigh, and roll my eyes.

I look around the train, and our car is empty save for the two of us. “Fine. Like the good old times.” I read the lyrics over again. “there’s only a few actual music notes scribbled on here.” She nods.

“I know. That’s why I want to hear you sing it. It always helps me fill in the notes that aren’t there.” I sigh again.

“I’m not getting out of this, am I?” She shakes her head, keeping that stupid goofy grin on her face,

I read over the lyrics a couple more times in my head. I look at the small music notes scribbled down, and take a deep breath, and close my eyes.

“Saying goes that when you're stuck on a mountain.” I sing out, open my eyes to peek at the lyrics again.

“You try to go up, you try to go down, you turn around. To face a wall so you can face yourself. Realizing you've made a mistake.” I finish off. And open my eyes fully. Roxy smiling even wider than before.

“It’s perfect. Thanks Revvy!” She says and leans over to wrap her hooves around me in a small hug.

“Yeah yeah. No problem. What’s the song called?” She gives a shrug and frowns slightly.

“I dunno. I always name the song last.” She shrugs again and looks out the window of the train.

I move my gaze that way as well. “How long has it been?” I keep my view out the window, watching the landscape quickly shift into a green blur as the train speeds up.

“It will be exactly two years tomorrow. . . “ Roxy says, her voice trailing off. I look back towards her to met her gaze. “Yeah. Tomorrow will be exactly two years since we left Sophomore year. Think the book planned that out?” She chuckles gently, and turns back towards the window wistfully.

“Knowing the stupid thing, probably.” I laugh, and bring my gaze to look out the window. The blurring green landscape, and the blue sky, orange tinted from the setting sun. “Do you remember the promise we made when we both left? The promise we made to each other?”

“We promised to walk, and never look back. We promised to hold each other when times got hard, we promised to laugh and smile together when times were good. And, most of all, we promised to stay strong, and never lose faith in each other. To never turn tail to run back home.” She speaks slowly, and firmly.

“Yeah. We promised a lot to each other. And never once have we broken that. But now. . I feel hateful that we have to go back home. I know it’s not breaking that promise, there are just a million different reasons why. Number one being my father. Number two the book blames my mother.” I glare slightly out the window, still looking up towards the slowly darkening sky.

“I hate every bit of it as well. I would rather go back to that first week we spent away from home, then now when we are heading back.” I nod in agreement as I watch the first twinkle of a star appears in the sky,

“That first week. Those where horrible times. Remember the wish we made on that star?” I look to Roxy, smiling gently. “I do. I will always remember that wish.” Roxy turns to me, a gentle smile adorned her face as well.

“We wished for a miracle.” I give a slow nod, and look into the sky, and watch as more and more stars appear in the growing darkness.

“We were broke. We had no bits to buy food. So we were hungry, starved. We were battered from walking through the woods, no bits to buy a ticket for the train. So we layed next to each other as that cold night approached. Trying to stay warm. And we looked into the sky, and saw the first star appear and made our wish. A miracle, one that would make time go back, and everything alright.”

“But the miracle we wanted was not the miracle we got.” Roxy laughs slightly. “There are four things that I will never forget. You, and the promise we made to each other. That wish we made. . And the kindness the princess showed us that night.” I sniff lightly, thinking back to that night still.

It was true. We were starved, and tired from walking through the dense woods that surrounded our home town. An entire week we spent walking, as much as we could during the day, and sleeping at night. Finally we reached the edge of the wood, just as night was coming upon us again. We looked up at the star, and made our wish.

I had closed my eyes, but soon felt the tingling warmth of someponies’ magic aura spreading over me. I slowly opened my eyes to see Princess Luna herself. She found us, and brought us to the palace. Let us sleep in her room, let us join the morning feast with other nobles. She even offered us a place to stay until we could get back on our hooves.

“I will never be able to forget her kindness either. That was the truest, and purest sense of kindness anypony could show to another. And she showed it to two noponys that would have probably died in a few days time. It really goes to show you how amazing the princess is.”

I curl up slightly in the seat, letting out a yawn as I glance into the now night sky. “I’m going to rest up. You should too.” I say to Roxy and she nods, curling herself up as well. Letting out her own yawn as she gently closes her eyes.

I let my eyes shut, as I think about everything. After a minute of laying there in sleeplessness I open my eyes and go to my journal, and start writing.

Two years. I’ve spent Two years on this journey with my friend. Two years spent practicing my efficient waltz across this land. I figured eventually I would wind up back at the place I started. But, I never thought it would be so soon. But that’s how a dance works. You always wind up on the original step eventually. So that’s what this is. Just another practiced step. And soon there will be another. But for now, this is a dance back home.

Time to explain everything.

Chapter Four: Time to explain everything.

I woke up soon after I had drifted to sleep. Another night that will only be plagued with my nightmares. I’d rather just stay awake. I sit idly, and look out through the train window. Watching the dark, moonlit landscape passing by. I give a soft smile as I look up at the moon. It looks cold and distant. Especially compared to the ever loving sun. But I have felt the true warmth that the moon has. I’ve felt the love it can bring.

“Revenant?” I hear the oddly familiar voice of a mare ring out. It breaks me away from my dazed state of staring. “Is that really you?” I hear the mare call out again, and I turn to face her. I give her a look over before my eyes widen with shock.

“Melody?” I ask, and she gives a big smile with a nod. “By Celestia! It’s been so long.” I speak up, but then quiet down remembering that Roxy is sitting next to me asleep. It really is Melody though. She looks much older now. Her mane has been grown out, and her fur seems to have grayed slightly. She was my teacher back in elementary school. She was the teacher of the class where I got my cutie mark. In fact, she’s the reason why I have my cutie mark. That, and her dead brother.

“Revenant. I never thought I would see you after you graduated from my class. And then I heard you left town in the middle of high school. I guess that’s true. But why?” She has a caring tone in her voice, while she asks her questions.

“It’s a long story. The reason why I left town, is pretty much the same reason why I am returning now. I’d rather not talk about it though.”

I say, and turn away from her slightly. “It’s personal.”

“I understand. Well, it’s good to see you, it really is!” She says with her happy smile. Sweet Luna, it’s been too long since I last saw that smile. “So we don’t disturb your friend, why don’t you come join me in my car?” I give a nod, and slip out of my seat. Stretching out slowly, feeling my joints ache from the awkward position I had been in.

We step into the next car, which was equally as empty as the one we just left. We walk down the aisle a bit, before sitting in new seats.

“You know my friend back there?  That was Roxy. Not sure if you could tell.” Melody lets out a slight gasp.

“Really? I had heard that she turned slightly punkish, and ran away as well. . . Wait, did you two run away together?” I give a slow nod and she gets this look on her face. A sort of sly look, as if she knows exactly what’s going on. “Ohh. I see. You two ran away together. Because neither of your families could accept your relationship?”

I blush hard and shake my head furiously. “No no no! You’ve got it wrong we’re just really good friends! Best friends.”  I added as a forethought.  Melody laughs slightly.

“Sorry dear. I just call it as I see it.” She gives me a teasing wink, causing me to blush harder. “But, no. You two actually caused quite the stir when you left. The entire town talked about you two for months. And your father. Well, he went insane, to put it kindly.” I hold up my hoof, stopping her from talking any more, gaining my more serious attitude again.

“I know.” I bring my hoof back down, hearing it knock against the wood floor of the train. “My father. He’s the reason I left town. And now he’s the reason I’m coming back. I can’t say, in fact I won't say that I’m coming back on the best of terms. But, I have a job to do.” I give a serious glare to Melody. “And you should know better than others what my job would entail.”

She gasps, instantly catching on to the situation. “You mean he has a ghost?” I give a slow nod.

“Yes. A ghost. A typical haunting. . Something I could have easily ignored. But, I can’t. Tell me, what did you know of my mother?” She gives me a confused look, and shrugs.

“Your mother usually kept to herself. Much like your father. Bookworms those two, seriously.” She snorts slightly at the irony in her statement. “I do know that she was very kind. One of the kindest ponies I had ever met. She was kind to everypony. Always a smile on her face. I don’t think she had the capability to frown, or be unhappy. Her smile was very contagious. It would light up a room.” Melody smiles brightly as she thinks of my mother.

“She was also very talented with her magic.” Melody looks out into the night sky. “Whenever she performed, it was like watching the night sky form in front of you. I swear to Faust that her artistic visions could rival those of Luna!”

I smile gently. “You have the same eyes as her. You know?” I laugh a little and nod. “A very beautiful, almost regal, purple.” I smile.

“Yeah. That’s what I’ve heard.” I laugh out, and blush slightly.

“You never met her, did you?” Melody asks. The moment she does though, she lets out a gasp, holding her hoof to her mouth. “Oh! I’m sorry. That was an insensitive thing to ask.”

“No. It’s alright. And yeah, I never met my mother. She died after giving birth to me. They say it was even a miracle that I survived. She held on just long enough to be able to hold me in her hooves…” I let out a long sigh. “I’ve always heard stories about her though. About her kindness, and her magical talents. I had wished that I could be as good as her. In every way. But, I ended up being a problem child. I acted out, I always caused trouble. And, I was crap at magic. The complete opposite of her. The complete opposite of a perfect mare.”

“That’s not what she would want.” I look at Melody. “Your mother, as amazing as she was, was still far from perfect. We are all far from perfect. I don’t think the princesses themselves are even perfect. I’ll be honest, I didn’t know your mother that well. But, I did know this. She would never want anypony to compare themselves to her.  Especially not her daughter.” Melody smiles at me, and pulls me into a gentle hug.

“Oblivion would have wanted you to just be yourself. She wouldn’t want you to worry over every little detail on what you did wrong compared to her. She would want you to focus on who you are as yourself. Not who you are as some other pony. She would tell you to go out there, and face the world as you. Not as a copy or a clone.” I sniff lightly, and hug Melody back.

“Melody? I have one more question about my mother.” She pulls back from the hug, giving me a gentle look.

“What is it Revenant?” I look away for a moment. Taking in a deep breath.

“My mother. Did she really love my father?” Melody gives me a serious look.

“Yes. Your mother loved Ignis with every bit of her heart as she could. I’ve never seen two ponies more in love then those two. Why do you ask?” I give a nervous look to her.

“That means my father is in real danger.” I say in a grim tone. “In my experience, a pony that had felt true love, especially in their moment of death, would have no reason to stay in this world.” I look out the window of the train. “My mother died with the two ponies she loved the most. Her child in her arms, and her husband at her side.”

“What does that mean then? It isn’t a typical haunting?” Melody asks in a concerned tone.

“I’m hoping that it is. But that would mean my mother still has something that tethers her to this world. But, if my knowledge holds true, that means that this is no normal haunting. It means that it’s a malicious entity, taking the form of my mother to torment my father. And, if it’s been tormenting him since I left, then that means it’s going to be strong.” Melody slowly takes in that information.

“What can I do, then?” She asks firmly, and I look at her.

“No. Do not get involved. This is my business, I can handle it. But, you can help by making sure no pony gets close to my father’s house.

Try to stay as far away as you can though. I don’t want any innocent ponies getting hurt. And make sure your brother stays as far away as possible as well.” I slowly give out the orders, keeping my tone firm.

“Oh. My brother moved on. Ashen didn’t want to go, but I told him that he should. I didn’t want him to stay in this world if he didn’t have to. He would be much happier up there, waiting for me, then he would down here.” I smile at her.

“I’m proud. That’s a hard thing to do. To let go of someone you love so dearly again like that. But, I think you did the right thing.” We share another small smile.

“Oh, Revenant. I nearly forgot.” Melody perks up, and turns away, digging into a small bag that was sitting on the seat. “Not too long after you left, I was walking by, and your father was angered. Shouting about the package. He threw it, and it landed by me. I tried to give it back, but he yelled at me to mind my own business, and marched back inside. I always meant to give it back, but I’ve just been so busy.” She holds out the package to me, wanting me to take it.

It’s an average looking box that has a slight orange tint to it. It’s wrapped by two red ribbons, one going vertically across the box, the other horizontally. I could care less about my father’s problems. I already don’t care about the one he’s in now. This is just business.

I want to tell her to keep it, to just toss it. But, the box peaks my interest. During my childhood, I remember my father receiving several weird artifacts, or old books in the mail like the book I carry now, with the memory spell.

“Thanks.” I say with a soft smile, and take the package from her. “I’m glad you cared enough about that miserable old fool to deliver this back to him, one way or another.” She gives me a disappointed frown.

“Revenant. I know you didn’t leave on the best terms with your father. But, he is still your father. He still loves you, even if it is in his own twisted sort of way. Just like he loved your mother.” I shake my head slowly.

“No. You’re wrong” I say firmly, and glare at Melody. It’s not an angry glare, but it is firm. I need to get the point across. “He was my father. Not anymore. He lost the right to be called that the moment he signed his name in blood. The moment he signed that contract, he lost his life. He lost his mind. But his biggest loss was me, his daughter.”

Melody gives me a concerned look. “What are you talking about Revenant?” Her tone is nervous, and she starts to pry the answer from me. But I slowly shake my head.

“Nothing, I don’t want to talk any more. I need to sleep. I’m sorry.” I turn away, taking the package in my magical grasp, and start to walk back to my car.

“Revenant. I didn’t-I mean. I’m sorry, Revenant. Please, listen to me.” I stop, and let out a sigh, turning to look at her again.

“Please. Make it quick.” I say. I try to look angry, I try to sound angry. But, I just can’t force myself to be angry at her.

“Your father said something about that package. Before he threw it. It didn’t seem like it was important, or mattered. He said, well, shouted really— “ She keeps stuttering, and stalling her sentence.

“Melody. Just tell me what he said.” I say, and turn fully to face her, even taking a couple steps forward.

“‘This is no longer my problem.’ there were a few other ramblings here and there. But that’s what he said. I’m not sure if that will give you any clue on what’s in there. I thought you’d like to know.” I give a slow nod, and look at the package.

“No. Thank you. That might help.” I give her a smile, and hug her. We say our final goodbyes for now, and I head back to my seat.

The entire time I walk to my seat, my eyes are locked on the package. Should I open it? Should I take a peek at what’s inside? Or should I just toss it out the train window? I shake my head slowly at that last thought. “I must know first.”

I start to untie the first ribbon. It comes off easily, dropping to the floor. The second one comes off, and my eyes follow it as it slowly slides onto the ground. I move my gaze back to the top of the box.  It’s small, it can easily fit into both my hooves. And, the box isn’t that tall either.

I slowly pull the top off the box off, and I feel my breath hold itself in my throat. I peer into the box and look over what’s inside. “A watch?” I question, and pull out the item.

Not any old watch though. It was my father's pocket watch. Completely gold, save for the silver chain, and the intricate black lines that cover its surface. I never paid much attention to the watch, I never had any reason to. But, there was always something about it that made me look at it.

Though, it was always just quick glances at the times my father would take it out to peek at it. Or, sometimes I would spot it laying on his study desk whenever I would walk by the door. One time I had walked into his study, and it was laying there. I walked closer to it but my father came in and picked it up, before I could get a good look at it, and unceremoniously shoved it into his pocket.

Seeing it up close now, though, after all these years. It enrages me. I always thought it was some form of a family heirloom, or prized possession of his. But it can’t be anything of the sort. The markings on the watch, the black ones that cover its round surface. They match my cutie mark perfectly from each little swirl and curved line.

It’s just another part of the deal. Just like the client book. Upon its black, satiny surface, were thick silver lines that match the same design as before.

“‘This is no longer my problem.’ Is that what he said? Figures, just another thing he’s shoving into my hooves. Another thing that was ‘out of his control’, most likely.” I scoff slightly, and go to open the window. But, I stare out into the night sky. No, not the night sky.

I look into the lunar mane of the night princess herself. “Luna?” I whisper out in a surprised gasp. I open the window slowly, and she gives a soft smile.

“Hello dear.” She smiles wider. “How have your travels been?” I give a dumbfounded look at the princess.

“What are you doing here Luna?” She gives a small chuckle and slides into the train with ease. Her form shifts slightly as she does so. Her astral mane turning to a flat purple. Her wings folding, and disappearing against her back. Her horn shortening to a length close to mine. Her regal jewelry fade away. And her cutie mark shifts to just a full moon.

“Please Revenant. Call me by my incognito name.” She says in a little giggle, her normal royal tone sounding much more natural now, much younger. I release an exasperated breath having to remember her silly name she uses for this form.

“Moon Beam. What are you doing here?” I ask again, this time more firm.

“What? Can I not visit an old friend of mine?” She laughs again passively.

“Fine. What do you want then?” Luna, or Moon Beam, drops her bubbly smile into a sour pout.

“I guess I’ll just skip the pleasantries then.” She lets out through a sigh. “I’m here because I felt you returning to this area.” She smiles softly again, and gaze out into her night sky. “That night you left the palace, I was worried you would return back to your home. The way you described it, I almost went straight to your father to show him the wrath of a princess! Instead, every night since I’ve kept vigilant over this area so I would know if two of my little ponies were heading home. Only a few hours ago, I felt two very familiar auras growing close.”

“Really Moon? Still watching us?” I give a soft smile, and she giggles.

“What can I say? You two were like children to me. At least, for a bit in my mind.” She lets out a soft sigh. “I know it’s only because of the promise I made to her. At first, I thought nothing of it, but you two really grew on me.” I give her a confused, and slightly angry, glare.

“What promise?” I ask firmly. “You told me that you just found us while you were travelling through the forest. What’s this promise?” She gives a small smile.

“I have to tell you the truth at some point. But, it’s not something I can tell you right now.” I give a more firm glare.

“Luna. Tell me now.” I nearly shout at her, and I hear Roxy stir a little. Luna just shakes her head with a sad look on her face. She stands up out of her seat, transforming into her original form as she does.

“I wish I could, Revenant. But, you need to hear the first part of this tale first. And, that’s something only your father can tell you. Also, keep that watch. It’s very important.” With that, she flashes away in a swirl of stars.

I let out a low, slightly angry growl. “Of course. I’m always out of the loop.” I hold up the watch, and go to throw it, but I feel a hoof on mine own.

“Revvy. Don’t do it. You heard her.” I let out a shocked gasp.

“How long have you been awake Roxy?” She shrugs.

“Long enough to know you shouldn’t do that. Give it here.” She takes the watch from me. “I think it’s safer in my hooves.” Her tone is teasing, and she sticks her tongue out at me. I let out a soft laugh, and turn away.

“Fine. But you better not lose it. Or drop it butter hooves.”

“Oh wow. Look.” She said to me pointing her hoof behind me. My attention is brought to the window once more.

The scenery is barely lit up by the now rising sun. And, close but still kind of far, is the entrance to Hollow Shade. A giant forest, with a cave like entrance made from the trees, where no light penetrates.

“There’s our home.” I hear Roxy mumble.

“No. That isn’t home anymore. Our home is with each other. Its cliché, but it’s true. That, that’s just our past. That’s all it is. So, there’s our past.”

“Revenant? Can you do me a big favor?” I look to Roxy with a soft smile on my face, and give her a nod.

“Please stop getting all sappy like that on me. It really kills my mood.” She laughs out and I reach over and punch her softly. We laugh a little, and look out the window, watching as the landscape turns to pitch black.

“Ominous.” I whisper to myself. “Wish we decided to use the train when we left, instead of walking. That was a really stupid idea. Almost killed is.”

Roxy nods. “Yeah. We still have at least an hour by train before we reach the town, right?” I give a nod.

“Gives me enough time to think of how to deal with my father.” She nods slowly. “Also, Roxy. Can you please do me a favor and-.” She cuts me off.

“No need to ask me twice. I’ll be dealing with my own problems. I’ll be nowhere near your place.” I smile and mouth a thank you to her.

The hour slowly passes by in silence, and we finally screech to a stop at the station. I let out a long sigh as I get off the train. I make sure I have everything packed away in my saddle bag, even the watch. Roxy checks on her own bag. “Ok. See you later.” I say, and Roxy gives me a small hug.

“Stay safe now. Ok?” I smile and give a nod. And walk off towards the edge of town.

After only a few minutes of walking down the familiar dirt road, I finally reach the place I used to call my house. After all these years, it still looks the same. Not a single change. He said he liked it the way it is, so there was no need to change anything. ‘Why fix what’s already perfect?’ He would always laugh.

I walk up to the front door, and take a deep breath. I hold up my hoof, and give three solid knocks. I wait in silence, before i finally hear a voice, muffled by the door, respond.

“Who is it?” I hear my father’s voice call out. He sounds. . Normal. From what I had heard, he seemed to have been growing crazy.

“Fath—” I stop myself before I make my mistake. I take a deep breath and speak again. “Ignis? It’s me. Revenant.” I hear some silence, before he responds, opening the door wide open.

“Revenant!? Is that really you?” He asks and I can hear a surprised dryness in his voice. I give a nod. He smiles wide, and hugs me tightly. I frown, and push him away. “Oh Celestia, it’s really you. I’m so glad you are back. It’s been so long.”

“I wish I could say it’s good to see you too.” I say in an angry huff. “I’m just here to help you with your problem, then I’ll be leaving again.” He gives a small frown.

“Revenant? What’s up with you? And what problem?” I give him a confused glare, and step inside. Even the inside looks the exact same from how I remember it.

“I’m here because I have to be.” I say firmly. Giving him a solid glare. “Now where is it? Where’s the spirit?” He gives me a confused look now.

“What are you talking about Revenant? There is no spirit here.” He laughs out. I go to question him more, but a smell fills the room. A delicious smell of food.

“Darling. Dinner’s almost ready.” I hear a mare’s voice call out.

“Who’s that?” I ask in a whisper, and he laughs even harder.

“Who’s that? What’s gotten into you, Revenant? That’s your mother.” My mouth hangs open and the mare in question walks into the room.

Her long dark purple hair flows behind her, along with her matching tail. Her fur is of a similar grayish purple to mine.  She even has the same, sweet smile that every pony describes. The one I’ve seen in pictures as well.

“Oh! Welcome home Revenant!” She calls to me, and rushes over to hug me. Warmth. A motherly warmth. A warmth that is absent from any spirit. My mouth just hangs open as she holds me in her embrace.

This can’t be real. This isn’t real. But, she feels so. . . Alive. “Um. It’s good to be home.” I give a nervous little smile. I just need to play along for now. I just need to think of something that only my real mother would know. But, I didn’t even know my mother. I’ve only seen her pictures. Heard stories.

“Well, it’s good to have you back dear. I’ll go ahead and make up an extra plate for you.” She smiles and pulls away from me, walking back into the kitchen.

“Oh. Um. Thank you, mom.” The word is foreign to my tongue, never having anyone in my life to call mom.

“Take a seat! Let’s talk!” My father calls to me happily, dragging me to sit on the small couch in the living room. “How’s life been since you started traveling?”

“It’s been ok. A little weird sometimes.” I keep up my sheepish smile.

“I got to say, I was a little surprised when you decided to leave. It was your choice though. You had your cutie mark, sure. But I know you just wanted to find your place in the world. I’m just sad it wasn’t here at home.” He laughs out.

I give my own little, nervous laugh, and we continue to have some small talk while waiting for another plate to be finished by my ‘mother.’ Is this what it would’ve been like? Is this the life I could’ve had if things went the way I wanted them to?

A loving mother I never had. The caring father I used to know. And the cute little daughter. I sit there and think of this. Is it really that bad? Would it be so wrong of me to stay here if nothing’s wrong? I shake my head, coming to my senses.

No. Something is wrong. It’s affecting me already. Making me think those things. “Sorry that took so long Revenant dear. Now that your plate is ready, let’s all eat like a family again.” I give a small smile, and nod.

We make our way into the tiny dining room. We eat mostly in silence, a few bits of small talk here and there. Though, something here is bugging me. Not just the fact that my dead mother is sitting and eating across the table from me. Not the fact that my supposedly crazy father is acting normal. Not the fact that I’m playing along right now.

My ear keeps flicking to a sound. A ticking. Slow, but meticulous. Coming from my saddle bag which I set by the table. “Um. Do you hear that at all?” I ask out, my ear still flicking with each tick.

“Hear what?” The two ask in unison. I give a shrug.

“Never mind. Must be my imagination.” But, it just keeps getting louder and louder. Finally I reach down into my saddle bag. I can feel the thing ticking now. It vibrates against my hoof when I grab it.

“What’s wrong Revenant?”  The one who is possibly my mother across the table asks.

“It’s nothing. It’s just—” My voice trails off. All is silent again. The moment after I picked up the watch, the ticking stopped.  I hold it out in front of me, and press the tiny button on the side, letting the lid flick open. Twelve O’clock. Not even close to the actual time.

“Is that my watch?” I hear my father ask, and I nod.

“Yeah… You gave it to me. As a parting gift.” I say with a smile. He gives a small nod, and gives a curious look, as if trying to remember the event that never happened.

“Ah. Yes. Now I remember.” He says after a second of contemplation. Now I know for a fact something is not right. The only parting gift he gave me when I left, was that journal. And his words that these things are no longer his problem. Out of his control.

“Revenant dear? Please stop glaring. It’s unbecoming of you.” I shake my head, removing the glare I didn’t know I had.

“Oh sorry.” She gives me a soft smile, and looks into my eyes with hers.

“It’s ok. Revenant. Keep trying. Soon you’ll be a lady like me.” She gives a soft smile, and places her hoof to her chest.

I give a tiny little smirk. “Oh? Is that so?” She gives me a confused look and nods.

“Yes. . . Don’t you want to be like me?” She asks in a confused tone. My father, sensing the tensions, gets up to take care of the empty plates.

“Why would you ever want me to be like you?” I ask, testing her. Keeping the smug little grin on my face as I do so.

“Well, because I’m your mother. I’m a perfect mare.” She gives a big smile and looks at me still with those jade eyes.

“Who are you?” I ask firmly, and coldly to the mare.

“I’m your mother.” She says gritting her teeth lightly.

“Don’t give me the act. I know you’re not my mother. I never met my mother. She died giving birth to me. I’ve been told that my mother was kind, and didn’t like others comparing themselves to her. You clearly want me to be like you.” She frowns, and gives me an angry look.

“Yes Revenant dear. Ponies do change though.” She speaks slowly, trying not to sound too angry at me.

“There’s another thing. I’ve also been told she was always smiling and happy. Her smile brightened rooms. She would never be angry.” I turn my smug grin into a glare. The mare goes to speak again, but I hold up my hoof. “Quit trying to argue. I know the truth.”

“The truth is sitting in front of you dear. I am your mother.”  I give a nod.

“Right. No you look like my mother. And, I got to say you look a lot like her. Almost exactly. But, you got something wrong. I guess you couldn’t tell since in these pictures her eyes are always closed. But, the color is wrong. My eye color is the same as my mothers. Yours are green.”

I take on the grin again as I watch the imposter stutter, and fumble her words now. “Fine. I guess you are smarter than we had anticipated.” She laughs out, and I watch as she lights up her horn. I watch as her form changes slightly.

Not much changes, though her mane and tail grow out longer, and her color shifts. The dark purples being replaced with dark greens, and the lighter purples being replaced with lighter greens. Her horn also grows longer.

“So tell me know. Who are you, and who else are you working with? You said ‘we.’” I ask as I stand up, firmly on the ground.

“My name is Invidia. And, I got to say, it was lovely being able to meet you Revenant. Too bad you can’t be more like me. And, do not worry yourself about who we are. You’ll find out soon enough. I’ll be taking my leave now. We will be meeting again, and next time it will not be so pleasant. . . Oh, and don’t worry, your father will be back to normal soon enough.”  She laughs out, a loud, evil sounding laugh. And in a flash of green, she’s gone. The smell of sulfur lingers in the air from her teleportation spell.

“Invidia.” I repeat her name. It sounds foreign, ancient. From a different time. I hear a groan from the kitchen. I walk in to find my father laying on the floor, rubbing his head. “Ignis.” I say to him, and he looks up to me. His eyes wide.

“Revenant. Is she gone?” I nod slowly. “Good. . . It looks like it’s time to explain everything.”

Something to deal with.

Chapter Five: Something to deal with.

“You sure you’re ok? You’ve been under her spell.  Probably since I left.” He gives a soft smile as I help him into a seat, holding a steaming cup of coffee in his magic.

“Thank you Revenant. And, yes. I’m sure. Please, sit down, and I’ll start from the beginning. Please just listen to me.” I give a cold nod to him and sit down across from him.

“I’m listening.” I say, and stare at him firmly, waiting for his story.

“Many years ago, before the time of Celestia and Luna. Even before the time of Discord, this world embodied Harmony and Chaos equally. Night and day moved on their own. Seasons changed with no help. The world was in perfect balance.”

“But soon, that all changed. Chaos grew out of control. Seasons changed quickly with no warning. Night and day became longer or shorter on a whim. The land started cracking and breaking apart. One brave pony decided to change all that. Ponies described her as the most generous, kind, honest and loyal pony that lived. They said she could laugh on the dreariest of days. But, most of all, she was a unicorn with immense power.  To counteract Chaos’s rampage, she took all her attributes, finding them to be the keys to keep the integrity of the world, and channeled them into five gems.”

“Then she made the ultimate sacrifice. She gave up her own body and magic, channeling her very essence into a sixth gem, one that would empower and unite the other five. In doing so, and by invoking their power, she banished Chaos from the world. Every pony mourned the loss of her great spirit. They took the gems and put them on display, letting their light shine out for all to see. And in her honor, they named the six gems after her. They named them, the Elements of Harmony.”

“And their light brought the world towards a new found peace. All was not easy though. It took time for ponies to learn how to control the world. The pegasi were put in charge of the weather and the changing of the seasons, using their natural ability of flight, and innate talents to do so. The unicorns were elected to control the paths of the sun and moon in the sky, using their collective powers to do so. And the earth ponies gladly kept tending to the lands, keeping the land fertile for further growth and prosperity.”

“Chaos did not leave without a fight however. Upon its defeat at the hooves of Harmony, it released seven essences into the world. Seven essences that could easily bring about Chaos once again, with time.  Each of the seven essences embody a sort of primal feeling in us. Our carnal pleasures.”

“Our lust, gluttony, greed, sloth, wrath, envy, and our pride.”

“Then Chaos, as a final measurement, used its power to create something that could keep chaos in the world. A being that could throw the world back into a state of unbalance. A being we all know as Discord.”

“And he was able to carry out his mission of world-wide chaos.  Discord, with the vast power that was granted to him turned the elements dormant and locked them away.  The elements, as bright as they shone, alone could not keep him at bay.  A thousand years of chaos passed, but then the two princess we know and love today rose to the challenge of defeating him. And ever since he has been, with some difficulty, defeated time and time again.”

“The reason being, that he has not been fully powered. The seven embodiments, they’ve been hiding in the dark, gathering their strength. They have recently started to take on physical forms. If they are able to reach Discord, and pour their power into him, then Chaos will return to this world.” He takes a pause, before looking up at me, giving me a look of despair “And I’m not sure the Elements will be able to stop it this time around.”

“And what does this have to do with me?” I ask.

“Everything.  Harmony, in an effort to slow down the Sins, used her last remaining powers to alter their mortality. They are spirits, Revenant. Ghosts, apparitions, lingering beings. Whatever you may call them, you have the power to stop them.”

“But why me?!” I break off his speech in a fit of rage. I was starting to get tired of listening to my father.  I wanted to run out of this awful house again, just like all those years ago.

“Because of my mistake.” He lets out a sigh and is unable to look me in the eyes.  “You see, Death did not take kindly to Harmony intruding on its domain like that, but she bargained with him to let it be.  She convinced him that they need a way to protect the natural order of events and he agreed to make three artifacts.  Each of these items have a special ability.  One artifact handles the living, telling you of when somepony will die. The second artifact handles things that have died, or have been dead, detailing how to deal with them. And the third, which Death kept for himself, is his scythe.  One swing from it, will set in motion the events that will lead to one's demise. Whether it be peaceful, or. . . Not so much.”

He looks up to gauge my reaction and I give him a firm glare, to tell him to get on with it.

“Well, in their deal, they agreed that two of these artifacts would be placed in the mortal realm.  And, once uncovered, they will choose one being who will aid death in bringing souls to the afterlife. As well as being able to defeat the seven Cardinal Sins.” He pauses again, giving me a sad look.

“During my travels, when you were but a newborn filly, I had uncovered the two artifacts. I didn’t fully comprehend what they were at the time.  I knew they were important but if I had known the terrible price they would…” He lets out a shaky sigh, and a look of utter sadness and regret. “I should’ve known.”

“If I only knew what they were, we wouldn’t be in this position.  We were both at the excavation site where we had uncovered them.  I had brought the artifacts into the tent, and set them down on my workstation so as to better study them. You were always a curious one when you were younger.”  At this he gave a fond smile as remembering better days.  He shook himself out of his reverie and looked over at me.  “I turned my back for a second, but a glow caught my eyes. Then, I saw you holding that book.  Your eyes were glowing in a soft yellow light for a few seconds, before reverting back to their original color.” He says as he points over to my saddle bag. The book peeking out of it.

“They chose you. Those damned, cursed book and watch. They had chosen you as the vessel for their mission and there was nothing that I could do to save you from that fate.” Tears were streaming down his face which was marred by anguish.

“And why could you never tell me this before?” I asked him, my voice trembling from the emotion I was restraining so that I would not break down like him.  He looks up.

“Because I didn’t think you could handle it. I couldn’t just tell my only daughter she had to leave the only home she knew to go collect souls and defeat an ancient evil. So you could leave with no regrets I had to make you hate me. I tried to explain my reasons before you left. I tried to beg for forgiveness. But, I had already pushed you over the edge by that point. I had already lost my only daughter.”

He dropped his head back into his hooves as his sobs started to break up his speech.  His cries held the weight of all his regret.  I almost went over to give him a hug.  Almost felt like forgiving him for the countless times he had made me experience emotional pain.  Almost.  When he spoke again his voice was little more than a hoarse whisper.  “And it was all my fault. I truly do regret everything.”

“You had your reasons. But I’m not sure that I can just up and forgive you. You said some truly hurtful things to me. I lived happily, wanting my father's lover. But you just acted so distant. You called me a failure, a mare who would never do anything important. And, when I spoke to you about my ability?” I was shouting now, finally letting my frustration at him vent out and lend weight to my words.  “You just tossed me that book. Then you had the nerve to ask for my forgiveness before I left! It disgusted me. ” I start to quiet down again.  All of my anxiety and anger at being back home rushing out of after me tirade and I gained control over myself again. “I really don’t think I’m ready to forgive you…Not yet. I now know you said those things to make me hate you. But let’s not pretend you didn’t mean some of those words.”

My father sits in silence, avoiding my gaze before speaking in a choked voice as he brought his own emotions back in check. “And I’m not asking for forgiveness that I haven’t earned yet. There are more important manners to deal with anyways. The thing that was here, the thing posing as your mother. That was one of the Cardinal Sins. Invidia. Envy.”

“So, that’s why the book brought me here.” I mumble to myself. Sighing as he changes the subject. Best to just listen.

“A few days after our fight, she came in.  She was just a normal mare who said she needed a place to stay for the night.  I hadn’t known what she was at the time but her eyes captured me in some sort of trance, most likely either her innate ability as a Sin or due to a spell I don’t know.  I agreed, but soon that night turned to several. I noticed that she had changed.  First her voice and then her appearance.  She began looking more and more like your mother. I was already under her spell by that point. And as much as I wanted to deny the fact, a part of me also wanted it to be true. That your mother was still here-”.

He trails of and sniffs lightly. Tears forming in his eyes once more. I let out a low sigh, and walk over to him, wrapping my hoof around him. “Hey. I. . I did to. I wanted to have a mother.” He takes a deep breath, holding it in before letting it out.

“I’ll be fine. You will too. We’re strong.” He chuckles a little then looks at me with the first fatherly smile I had seen on his face in what felt like forever.  His eyes had a proud sparkle to them. “Your mother would love the mare you grew up to be.” He smiles, and I give him a soft smile back.

“But I still have a lot of growing to do, father.” I laugh a little before I take on a serious look. “Now I have a question.” My father leans back from our embrace to look at my face. “What dose Princess Luna have to do with all of this?”  He draws his eyebrows into a form of confusion.

“Princess Luna? Why would she be involved?” I go to open my mouth, but there’s a knock at the door.

“I’ll get it.” I say and get up to walk briskly to the door, having a pretty big hunch at who’s going to be standing behind it.  Throwing the door open I instantly start my interrogation.  “What is it Moon Be-” I stop abruptly as a take in the sight in front of me.  “Roxy?” Outside my door stands Roxy. She’s sweating, and has tears running down her face. She’s even scratched up. “Great Faust, Roxy! What happened?” I nearly shout and she gives me a hug, clutching onto my neck with all of the desperation of a Madmare.

Gasping as though she ran all the way to Revenants home, Roxy pushed the words out.  “She’s… she’s back Revenant. My sister. She’s back.” My eyes go wide and I hug Roxy back.

“Revenant. Who is it?” I hear my father call out.

I rush back in and grab my saddle bag, using my magic it to through it over me. I give my father a serious look over my shoulder as I walk back to the door. “Ignis. We’ll talk later. Right now, I have something to deal with.”