The Rainbow Portal

Chapters

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Bonus Chapter 1, I AM A LICH!
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 10
chapter 11
Chapter 12
Prologue
chapter 9

Chapter 1

Jason Schmidt stood outside his house, waiting for his friend Emily. He was pale, with shoulder length dirty blond hair covering his piercing blue eyes. He was lean, but by no means scrawny. He wore a hoodie over a white t-shirt and blue jeans, with boots. “Come on…” He muttered, tapping his foot impatiently, “What’s taking so bloody long?”

He noticed a person on a bike riding closer to him, and when it got closer, he saw that it was Emily, riding really quickly at him. She rode onto the driveway of his house and got off the bike, taking the helmet off, her short hair messed up from it on for awhile. She had gotten a bit tanner during the soccer season this year, and her emerald green eyes were bright with excitement. She had a loose fitting blue t shirt and shorts on, and was wearing some shoes that looked to be breaking apart a bit. She smiled, “Hope I didn't keep you waiting.” She said, walking over.

Jason smirked, “Only fifteen minutes, not that bad this time.”

Emily shrugged, “I was hoping for twenty.”

Jason’s smirk changed into a genuine smile, “Good to see you again Emily, how was the season?”

Emily smiled, “It was great. We won most of the games.” she looked at him, “Hows the Star Trek thing?” she asked.

Jason sighed over dramatically, “Will you never learn the name? It’s going well, even got two high quality saber replicas, didn’t bring them of course, don't want them to break.”

“That's...interesting I guess.” Emily said, “I had expected you to bring them honestly...being the weird fan you are.” she remarked.

Jason smirked, “I’ll take that as a compliment, I was debating whether to bring them, but they’re too valuable.”

Emily shrugged, “If you say so.” She turned to look at the treeline a few houses away, “So we going there or what?”

Jason glanced down at her, “yeah we are,” He glanced back to the forest, “Crap, forgot something inside!” He groaned, “Be right back.” He rushed inside, before coming back out with a black backpack, “Some survival supplies,” He explained, opening the pack, “Snacks, bottles of water, flashlights, matches, other stuff.”

Emily sighed, “Were only going to explore it for like an hour, we aren't going camping dude.” she said, laughing.

Jason sighed, “Better safe then sorry.” He said, placing the pack on his back, “You ready?”

“Yep.” Emily said, heading towards it.

Jason rushed after her, “There are strange stories about this place…” He began in an ominous voice, “Some people have been said to go into there and never come out.” His voice took a more normal tone, “And some say that there is some kind of temple in there, so I wouldn't take much credence in those tales.”

Emily didn't look at him as she walked, “All of those are just dumb campfire stories to scare little kids.” she replied, starting to jog to the forest.

“No doubt, which is why I don’t put much credibility in it.” Jason said, jogging along side her.

“Good.” Emily said, “Because that would suck if you did.” she said, entering the forest.

“Well…” He started, “I believe in any possibility, who knows? There might actually be a temple in there, so I guess we’ll see.”

Emily rolled her eyes, “And there also might be a beeping robot that looks like a trash can on wheels.” she replied, going deeper in.

“Oi, don’t diss R2-D2.” He countered defensibly, “Just saying there is a possibility.” They continued walking through the forest, only stopping a couple times for water and the occasional snack. It wasn't long however, until they found themselves completely and inexplicably lost. “Crap…” Jason muttered, glancing up at the sky. The sun was on its downward arc, making the shadows of the tree’s elongate.

Emily sighed, “We have to figure out how to get unlost and get back. I have to be home for dinner.” she said.

Jason was about to respond, when the bush behind them shifted and rustled. A feeling of fear and dread came over them, as if something unholy was upon them. “Lets go!” Jason yelped, grabbing hold of Emily’s wrist and running as fast as he could, which was surprisingly quick.

Emily managed to get him to let go, and ran faster, going ahead of him, using the quickness she had acquired from years of soccer.

Jason pumped everything he had into his legs, catching up with Emily before managing to take a look back at their pursuer. A black cloud of mist was surging at them, gleaming as though filled with thousands of crystals. “What the hell is that thing!?” He yelled, looking for somewhere to hide.

Emily didn't look back, “I don't care, I would rather run and survive then look back and lose some speed.” she growled through her panting, running a bit faster.

“Fair enough!” He yelped, doing his best to keep up, when he spotted a structure in the distance. “To your left!” Jason roared, pointing towards the structure, “Maybe we can hide in there.”

Emily looked over, and ran over to it, “I guess the temple theory was right?” she guessed.

“It would appear so!” Jason yelled as they reached the entrance, which was held open by a stout branch. As Emily entered the inside, he tackled the stick, expecting it to break, instead it moved inside the temple with him, slamming the door shut and blocking the smoke. “We… Made… It…” He panted, trying to catch his breath, “It really is bloody dark in here.” He muttered.

Emily sat down on the floor, catching her breath, “Don't doors normally have a crack under them?” she asked, once her heart rate went down, “More important question, why were we followed by black smoke, and why is a dumb campfire story true?”

Jason frowned, before glancing at where he thought the door was, “There’s no crack at all,

just a solid slab of stone.” He looked around, trying to see something in the darkness, “Where are you?”

Emily sighed, “Are you talking to me, or the black smoke, Mr. I have a backpack of camp supplies. You brought a flashlight!” she exclaimed, getting up carefully, her shoes scraping the stone.

“Flashlight, matches, some small branches, only thing I didn't bring was tents and sleeping bags.” Jason said, taking his backpack off and rummaging through it, “Aha! Here we go.” He said triumphantly, lighting a flashlight and giving another one to Emily.

Emily turned it on, and looked around at the stone walls, “Thanks. I wish I had taken my phone, or something so my parents would assume I was insane for talking about black smoking and asking for their help when i called...” She sighed, and turned to the stone slab, “What will we do now?”

“I do have my phone…” Jason muttered, pulling it out of his pocket, “But I got no service. Guess two feet thick stone walls block cell reception extraordinarily well…”

Emily rolled her eyes, “Yeah, lucky us.” She said.

Jason shook his head, “At least we got some music to keep up our spirits,” He said with forced cheerfulness as he shined his light down a tunnel, “As we keep moving forwards.”

Emily frowned, “What music? did you bring an MP3 player?” she asked, looking around for any alternative to going further into the temple, “What if we suffocate?”

Jason shook his head, “I don’t think so, feel that?” A soft breeze came from inside the tunnel, “That’s fresh air, which means there should be another way out, plus,” he tapped a couple of buttons on his phone and music started to play, “It is a smartphone, it has music capabilities.”

Emily frowned, “So we can't call someone, but we can listen to music?” she asked, walking closer to the tunnel, shining a light down it, seeing nothing suspicious about it, she groaned, “I guess if this is the only way...”

“Ok, let’s go.” Jason said, putting his backpack on shining his light down it, before face palming, “The branch…” He muttered, turning back and grabbing the piece of wood that held open the door. “Might work as a defense.” He mused, before glancing at Emily, “Would you do the honors?”

Emily grabbed the branch, “It would help me better than nothing.” she shrugged, swinging it around to test, before leaning on it like a walking stick.

Jason nodded, “It’ll be better in your hands than mine.” He shrugged, shining his light in her eyes.

Emily put a hand over her eyes to be able to see, “Lead the way I guess.”

“Sure thing.” Jason replied, walking forwards into the temple. The walls of the hallway were bare, until they reached a staircase, leading down. The walls began to show old faded pictures of what seemed to be a great battle. As they descended, the faded images began to change, showing a four legged being with a horn and wings fighting another being of the same kind. One of them was pure white, with multicolored hair and what looked like the sun on her flank, the other was dark blue, almost black, who wore armor and had what looked like a crescent moon surrounded by clouds. “What is this?” Jason muttered as he shone the light at the scene.

Emily looked at the pictures, “Something stupid probably. These drawings don't even matter, its a temple of old shit.” She said.

“Come on Emily, someone obviously revered one of these things, why else would they make a temple to them? I mean, Look!” He shone his light on some of the other images, “They’re everywhere!”

Emily shrugged, “Mythological creatures were always revered back in those times?” She guessed.

“Yeah, Unicorns and Pegasi were back in ancient Greece, and these creatures do look like a mix of them, but an ancient Greek temple in America? That sounds a bit far-fetched, even to me.”

Emily looked at him, “Weren't some ancient people also in America or something?” she asked.

Jason nodded again, “Yeah, the Vikings and the Spanish and the English, but not the Greeks.” He shrugged, “We should keep moving.”

Emily nodded, “Yeah...” she said, walking down the stairs again.

Jason walked through the hallway with his best friend, still keeping an eye on the images. After about five minutes, Jason spoke up, “Hey, you see that?” He squinted ahead, “It looks like a light of sorts.”

Emily looked down, “The light at the end of the tunnel, are we dead?” she joked, smiling.

Jason smiled back, “If we have, glad to have died with my best friend.” He joked back, with a tone of seriousness underneath.

Emily sighed, “I would rather die old.” she said, completely serious.

Jason blushed, “It was supposed to be a sentimental thing…” He muttered as they reached the bottom of the staircase. “Whoa,” Jason breathed, taking in the sight. A swirling vortex stood in the middle of the room with all sorts of seizure inducing lights.

Emily rubbed her eyes, “I don't know what that is, but it gives me a headache, and I do not like it.” she growled.

Jason didn't respond, and started walking towards it. Emily grabbed him arm quickly, holding him back. Jason kept walking, dragging her forwards.

Emily groaned as she kept trying to hold him back, “You're skinny but strong as hell when you want to be. Your supposed to be smart, why are you risking to die to this crap?” she growled through her teeth, trying to pull him backwards.

Jason’s feet left the ground, the portal dragging him towards it, “Wha?” He muttered, before realizing what happened, “Holy shit!!!!!” He screamed, “What the hell!!!!”

Emily continued pulling on the ground, until she floated in the air too, and couldn't move, her hand on his arm. She glared at him, “I blame you for this.”

“I don’t even know what happened…” He muttered, as they entered the portal.

Emily closed her eyes to keep from having her headache get bigger from the swirling rainbow colors, “Were dead, we actually died, and this is hell.” The light turned to a bright flash of white as Jason and Emily were rendered unconscious.

Jason groaned, “Ugh… Did anyone get the number of that truck?”

“The truck that killed us or the truck you always make jokes about that stops being funny after the tenth time...” Emily whispered next to him.

Jason chuckled, “Good to see that whatever happened didn't kill your humor Em.” He groaned as he sat up, stretching his arms. “OK…” He said as he looked around, “Where in the nine hells are we?”

“The hell that includes giving me a headache because of bright colors...” Emily muttered, sitting up beside him, holding her head.

“We appear to be in a forest.” Jason deadpanned, “Dark, creepy, and no more rainbow lights.”

Emily looked up, taking her hands away from her face, “Wonderful. It must be night...”

“At least no more headaches for now.” Jason grinned.

“Hello?” A voice called out, drawing their attention, “Is anypony here?”

Emily blinked, “What?” she asked, grabbing the stick off the ground that she had managed to keep a hold of.

Jason motioned for her to keep it at the ready, “I’m gonna call out, only attack if necessary.” He whispered to her. “Yeah! We’re over here!”

A moment of silence, “Alright, I’m coming over.” The voice was definitely female, and getting closer.

Emily frowned, “Who else would be out here during the night...I didn't know there were a lot of kids on your street.”

Jason frowned, “That wasn't a teen’s voice, whomever’s it is, she seems to be in her twenties.”

The bushes to the right of them began to rustle, and Jason’s jaw dropped as a mint green unicorn came out of the woods, an equally surprised look on her face. “Wha-wha huh?” She seemed unable to form coherent sentences.

“We are in afterlife Greece!” Emily exclaimed, “Or whoever liked the unicorn...” she muttered, thinking.

The Unicorn shook her head, “Are you OK?” She asked them, “More importantly, where did you come from?”

Jason nodded his head, “Yeah, we’re alright, there was this temple, and a swirling vortex, thingy and we ended up here.”

Emily stared at the unicorn, “Where are we now?”

That seemed to grab the Unicorn’s attention, “Gah!” She exclaimed, shaking her head, “I gotta go!”

She started to turn around, only for Jason to grab her tail and pull her back, “Whoa!” He yelled, “What’s going on!?”

Emily poked her with the stick, “Yeah...seeing a unicorn and having her freak out brings up more questions than answers I want to know.”

The Unicorn looked worried, “Look, a 2000 year old evil spirit returned and is trying to bring around eternal night with more arcane power than Princess Celestia, and has my marefriend held hostage, along with half of the town!” She exclaimed, pushing the stick away.

Jason looked at the unicorn, “I just have one question, how can we help?”

“That's your only question? Not who this Princess is or what the hell she even means by any of that?” Emily asked, staring at him.

Jason shrugged, “I've always wanted to go on a quest to save an entire land.” He slowly stood up, stretching his legs.

Emily blinked, “Wow...” she muttered, putting her hands in the grass and pushing herself up, standing next to him.

Jason smiled at the Unicorn, “My name is Jason Schmidt, and this is Emily Tucker, what’s your name?”

The Unicorn smiled back at them, “Lyra, Lyra Heartstrings.” They walked forwards into the forest.

Chapter 2

Jason pushed through some of the bushes and branches, his flashlight leading the way. “Lyra, where are we going?” He asked her.

“The Castle of The Two sisters.” Lyra responded, “According to Legend, the Princesses Celestia and Luna lived there 1000 years ago, before Princess Luna became Nightmare Moon, who returned tonight.”

Emily looked at her, “Do both of them look like a unicorn and a pegasus fused together?” She asked.

“Is one of them white with multi colored hair? And the Other one dark blue and wears scary armor?” Jason added.

Lyra looked at both of them, “Yeah, that fits Celestia and Nightmare Moon perfectly.” She turned her head towards Emily, “And the term is Alicorn.”

Emily shrugged, pushing past some branches, “Whatever. I guess the name makes sense. So, when you say it was a legend...”

Lyra shrugged, “It was 1000 years ago, the only texts detailing events from back then are all foals tales and myths.” She turned forwards again, “I take some inspiration from ancient myths and legends for my music.”

“What instrument do you play?” Jason asked, “I’m guessing its a lyre.”

Emily rolled her eyes, “Just because her name is Lyra doesn’t automatically force her into playing that instrument.”

Jason pointed towards her flank, which held the image of a lyre, “That might give one a hint.”

“Or it just means that she can play a lot of instruments, and not just one specific thing. Its a branding! A tattoo for ponies.” Emily replied.

Lyra’s ears folded back, “It’s called a Cutie Mark…” She mumbled.

“Cutie Mark?” Jason asked, “What is that?”

Emily tilted her head, “Cutie Mark sounds like a cutesy name for a brand...”

Lyra glared at Emily, “Brands are used for slavery, something that any good pony would never do.” She took a breath, “A Cutie Mark is a mark that lets somepony know what they’re good at, mine is a lyre, because my special talent is playing the lyre.” She snapped.

Emily raised her hands, “Ok! Your a touchy pony. I guess branding would be considered slavery here to ponies...so thats all your good at? Playing music?” she asked, walking closer to her.

“No. As a matter of fact I am also a mythologist. That doesn’t pay much, so its more of a hobby.” She growled, “And for your information, I have a right to be touchy, my marefriend has been enslaved by Nightmare Moon…”

Emily frowned, “Point taken, lets get going then. If what we saw in the cave with the pictures was true, and this Nightmare Moon is really that bad, then we need to go after her before she kills anybody. I assume...because your ponies, you don't have guns?” she guessed.

Lyra raised an eyebrow, “Guns?”

“Weapons on the caliber of twenty thousand of the highest quality swords.” Jason said, “Very dangerous, and very lethal, probably cut through high quality un-enchanted armor like it was butter.

Emily nodded, “Yeah...so I guess thats a no...do you actually have magic?”

Lyra’s horn lit up, yanking the flashlight out of Jason’s hand in a sea green color, “Yes.” She said simply.

Jason froze, his eyes wide, “The Force…” He whispered.

Emily glared at him, “She isn't a jedi! Shes a unicorn. I think magic and ‘the force’ are two very different things,” she looked back at Lyra, “do unicorns have a lot of power like the myths about them said?”

“It all depends on the Unicorn, most use it to help their special talent, like me and my lyre playing, but others, whose Cutie Mark’s are directly linked to magic, they are the most advanced mages in Equestria.” Lyra explained.

Jason snapped out of his amazement, “So not The Force?”

Lyra glared at him, “No, this isn't Star Mares…” She mumbled.

“I told you.” Emily said triumphantly, “Wait...Mares? Is everything a pun here?”

“You know what a Jedi is?!” Jason exclaimed, “How?”

“It’s a bucking movie…” She muttered, looking up, “We’re here.” A ruined castle loomed in front of them, broken windows and towers that appeared to have been torn down. “The Castle of the Two Pony Sisters.”

Emily looked at it, “Looks like a haunted house.” she said, stopping in front of it.

“It’s been derelict for over 1000 years, of course it does.” Jason snapped.

Emily stuck her tongue out at him, “No need to get snappy with me just because I made an observation.” she muttered.

Jason didn’t respond, instead pointing towards the gates. Six different ponies, two unicorns, two pegasi, and two normal looking ones, were entering the castle, “Looks like we’re not the only ones here…” He muttered, leaning down into the bushes.

Emily smiled, “That's good for us, more hands helping us out...why did you run out here again by yourself?” she asked Lyra.

Lyra glared at Emily again, “My love was captured. I came to get her back.” She snarled.

“Both of you stop it.” Jason hissed, his normal goofy demeanor gone. “This is serious. People’s live are at stake, and we can’t be messing around like children.”

“I am a child. An older one, but still.” Emily said, “A child that was put through a headache rainbow portal, and is now with a pony trying to save another pony. I am on an acid trip.” she rubbed her eyes.

“Lets just get on with this.” Jason hissed, “The main entrance is likely to be guarded, since the six mares are probably expected, and Nightmare doesn’t want them to escape. Let’s find a side entrance.” He whispered, sneaking to one side of the castle.

Emily held onto the branch he had given her, and followed him, “I'm going to have to sharpen this...make it a spear somehow for later...” she muttered, searching around the wall, turning on her own flashlight a bit too late, falling over some of the broken wall, “Ow...” she groaned.

“Keep it as a staff.” Jason whispered, “Less lethal, still dangerous.” He reached out a hand to help her up. “Lyra? Know any healing Magicks?”

Lyra nodded, “A basic healing spell, should be enough for as much as a broken arm.”

Emily stood back up, dusting herself off a little, “I'm fine...some of the fallen debris stuff hurt my back, but I can move just fine, found an entrance....” she said, cracking her back, looking at the big hole in the wall.

Jason nodded, “Good, Here’s how it’s gonna go. Emily, you go up front, since you have the best weaponry, not expecting much of a fight, but it’s best to be careful. I’ll go in the middle, as a backup, and Lyra, your support, healing us when we get hurt.” He explained, “Sound good?”

Emily stared at him, “The weapon I have, is a branch from a tree. Not exactly a weapon dude.” she said.

“It held that door open for 1000 years without a crack, I don’t think it’s gonna break anytime soon.” Jason muttered, “Just use it.”

Emily sighed, “It just means its a really strong branch, that broke apart over time. We don't even know if it was there for that long a time, but fine, ill use the branch.” she said.

Jason nodded, “Good,” He glanced to the floor and picked up a small metal pipe of sorts. “Should work for now.” He muttered, grabbing his other flashlight from his bag and shining it down the hallway. “Everybody ready?”

Lyra nodded, “Ready.”

Emily held the stick like she was about to throw it, “Ready to die because I'm in the front and the alicorn is crazy.” She said, walking through the hole carefully and into the hallway, looking around.

Jason entered the hallway behind Emily, Lyra following closely, “Nightmare would have the captives in a very defensible place, like the dungeon.” He muttered, walking forwards into what appeared to be a throne room.

Lyra stifled a frightened squeak, “N-N-Nightmare…” She trailed off, shaking terribly.

The pictures in the temple did nothing to show what she really looked like. Nightmare Moon stood at least a couple feet taller than Jason and Emily, and her whole body seemed to shimmer with an evil black aura.

Emily turned to them, putting her arm down, tired from holding it up, “Any sort of game plan?” she whispered.

“Normally I would suggest sneaking around her, but since she is an age old evil deity, I don’t think that’s going to happen.” Jason whispered back.

All of a sudden, the six mares from before charged into the room, “We’re here to stop you!” The blue pegasus with prismatic hair yelled.

Nightmare moon laughed, one of the cliché laughs that all villains share. “And how will you do that without your precious Elements of Harmony?”

“There dead...” Emily muttered, keeping out of sight from them.

Nightmare’s horn lit up, and the purple Unicorn disappeared with a flash, before Nightmare turned into a cloud of blue mist. Jason took a step out of the shadows and called out to them, “Hey!”

The orange pony with the stetson looked at him, “What tha hay are ya supposed ta be? Are ya helpin tha Nightmare er somethin?” she asked, glaring at him.

Jason snorted, “Couldn’t be farther from the truth, we’re here to get the hostages that Nightmare took and bring them to safety.”

The prismatic Pegasus glared at him, “Nightmare didn’t take any hostages. Who are you trying to fool.”

Jason turned back to face Lyra, only to be slammed back with a hammer. Jason slammed into the wall, unconscious. Lyra’s right fore hoof took the shape of a black hammer, before her body morphed into a being of dark smoke with evil red eyes.

Emily looked over at him, before she glared at the monster, “I get to hit something with this stick now at least...” She muttered, running at the smoke like abomination, hitting it with the branch, which surprisingly, didn't go through the smoke like she had worried about. As soon as the branch made contact with the smoke, a great bang echoed throughout the hall. The smoke being flew backwards into a window, which shattered, letting the beast fly outside.

Emily looked down at the branch in her hand, “What the fuck just happened?” she asked herself, looking around.

The yellow pegasus looked like she was going to have a heart attack, and the stetson wearing regular pony was at a loss for words at what had just happened.

A groan from the wall echoed throughout the hall, “Owww…” Jason muttered. “While that hurt, how the hell do I not have any broken bones?” He got up slowly, wincing at every movement. “Ugh, what happened?”

Emily stared at him, a bit glassy eyed, “A monster hit you...and this branch threw it away...somehow...” She said, looking down at it again.

Jason smirked weakly, “Told you that staff was important.” He glanced at the five mares, “Now that’s out of the way, My name is Jason Schmidt, and this is my friend, Emily Tucker, can we be of any assistance?”

A scream rang out from the highest tower, drawing all their attention, “That sounded like Twilight!” The pink pony yelled, causing the rest of them to race towards the tower.

Jason charged right after them, grabbing Emily’s wrist again, “ADVENTURE!” He yelled excitedly, his previous pain forgotten.

“What's with you and grabbing me when I can run well on my own?” Emily growled, unamused, debating weather to hit him with the branch as she ran with him.

Nightmare Moon stood over Twilight, a triumphant look on her face. “The Elements have failed you foal!” She roared, flaring her wings, “Any Last words?”

“Yeah.” Came a new voice that Nightmare did not recognize. Looking up, she saw two bipedal creatures, one male, one female, based on their mane length, standing in the doorway. “Could you be any less cliché?” The male one quipped, before turning to Twilight, “Don’t worry, you’re friends are on their way.”

Nightmare’s wings flared again, “Who are you to insult the Queen of Nightmares!?”

The male figure gave a mock bow, “My apologies, your highness,” He said mockingly, “My name is Jason Schmidt.”

The female smiled, “I’m Emily, and I apparently have a strong ass branch that can throw things out a window. Fear me, or get hit with my whacking stick.”

“I am not a whacking stick!” Another new voice rang out, ”I am the soul of the great wizard Imloch in his favored staff!

Emily dropped the stick, backing up slightly, “You can have it now Jason.”

“I will work only with a human of my bloodline, which is you, young Emily.”

Emily frowned, “I don't know anyone in my family who was a mage.” She said.

“Is this really ah good time fer this? We needa take care of helpin Twilight!” The orange pony exclaimed.

Twilight stared at the whole thing, before a spark appeared in her eye for a split second, and turned to Nightmare Moon, trying to ignore the oddity of two new creatures and a talking piece of wood, “You're wrong, the elements havent failed me.” she said proudly. “The elements of Harmony are right here!” she exclaimed, looking at each of the other ponies assembled, as the crystals at Nightmare Moons hooves glowed and flew up into the air.

“Applejack, when she reassured me when I was doubtful, represents the spirit of Honesty.” some of the crystals flew over to the orange pony, and circled around her.

“Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her kindness and gentle compassion, represents Kindness!” Twilight exclaimed, as the crystals circled the shivering yellow pegasus.

“Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents Laughter...”

Emily picked up the branch slowly as Twilight continued talking, and looked at it carefully, turning to Jason, “I want to know where that other monster went...” she whispered.

“Let’s hope it’s gone for a while.” Jason whispered back.

“Yeah, but I want to find-” Emily was cut off by a rainbow light and Nightmare Moon screaming, and turned back to watch.

Jason sighed, “More rainbow lights…” He turned to Emily, “Headaches again?”

Emily shook her head, “No, Im fine, it isn't swirling continually...” she said, “Nightmare Moon...looks adorable.”

“Huh, She kind of does,” Jason replied, tilting his head, “Is she trying to get away?” He wondered.

Emily shrugged, “If she is...she doesn't look like she would be able to leave.” she observed.

Their attention was drawn to the sun, which was finally seeming to be rising. Through one of the broken windows, a pure white alicorn came through the window, landing gracefully on the floor. A pure white alicorn, with a flowing rainbow mane and tail, and sun cutie mark, appeared from the light.

Twilight ran over to her, “Princess Celestia.” she said, nuzzling her.

Princess Celestia smiled, “My faithful student, I knew you could do it.” she said proudly, nuzzling her back.

Twilight looked up at her, confused, “But you told me it was all an old pony’s tale.”

Celestia shook her head, smiling, “I said make friends, I never disproved of the legend. I saw the signs of Nightmare Moons return the same as you, and knew you had the magic inside to defeat her, but only with true friendship inside. Now if only she will as well...” she walked over to Nightmare Moons prone form, her wings out, “Princess Luna, it has been a thousand years since I have seen you, its time we put our differences aside, we were meant to rule together, little sister.”

“Sister?” Emily asked, confused, “Must have been some huge sister spat...”

“Don’t you remember what not-lyra said? Princess Luna became Nightmare Moon.” Jason responded.

“Yeah...didn't realize the evil ghost monster was being truthful though, about anything it fucking said.” Emily replied, looking at him.

“Well apparently it was.” Jason grumbled.

Everything was quiet, and when both humans turned, Celestia and Luna were looking at them, along with the apparent Elements of Harmony. Princess Celestia walked slowly over to them, “May I ask, but who are the both of you? I don't believe we have met.” she said calmly.

Jason bowed, “My name is Jason Schmidt, it is an honor to meet you Princess Celestia.”

Emily bowed with him, “Emily.” she said simply, putting the branch on the floor.

Princess Celestia smiled gently, “You don't have to bow, it is nice making your acquaintance. I have not seen creatures such as you though, what are you?”

“We are humans from the planet Earth, while exploring through the woods we were chased by a black mist, and we took shelter in a temple,” Jason pointed at Emily’s staff, “That is a talking stick that held the door open. Not joking.” He shook his head, “Along the walls of the temple were carvings, of you and Nightmare moon doing battle. We apparently entered a Rainbow portal and ended up a couple of miles away, where a smoke creature that was disguised as a pony named Lyra Heartstrings found us and took us to the castle, under the pretense of rescuing hostages.” Jason explained.

“I still say I'm on an acid trip, and the stick is talking to me because of that.” Emily said.

Princess Celestia tilted her head, thinking about that information, “That sounds like a bit of an issue, I am sorry for what you had to go through.”

“Yeah well, At least one of us got a magical Item out of it.” Jason muttered, glancing at Emily. “Other than that, we should be able to get home, I mean from what I’ve gathered, you’re practicality gods!”

Princess Celestia sighed, and walked closer to them, away from the new element bearers, “As much as the ponies wish to believe us to be gods, all me and my sister truly are, is nothing like a god. My magic, although powerful enough to move the sun, is not at a level to rival that of what you call a god, I do not, and neither does my sister, have the power to send creatures between dimensions.”

Jason stared at Celestia, “So we’re stuck here until we die, is that basically correct!?” He yelled, charging towards her.

Celestia stopped him in a yellow glow, staring at him sadly, “I am afraid thats correct, and trying to attack me will not help the matter.”

Princess Luna walked over, “Why is thine creature attacking Us?” she asked.

“Because I am stuck in magical pony land!” Jason yelled, waving his hands in the air, “I had a life, a family back home, and now they’ll never know where the hell I went! Same goes for Emily!”

Emily looked at him, “I'm good, the acid trip I am on will wear off, and I'll be grounded.” She said, looking at the branch, “And this thing won't be talking.”

”Emily, this isn’t some drug induced hallucination, this is real, you are in Equestria, which is a Alternate Universe U.S.A, on the planet Earth. Yes its the same bloody name, deal with it.” The staff snarked.

“Says the talking stick.” Emily replied.

The staff, in response, whacked her in the face without any magic behind it. ”I am not a bloody stick, I am a staff, I, simply do not have enough energy to change my shape to my normal staff form…” The staff muttered angrily.

Emily rubbed her head, dropping the offended staff, “That actually hurt...” Her eyes widened, “Shit...”

”Yes, now pick me up.” The staff snarked.

Emily looked like she was going to have a mental breakdown, the excuse of an acid trip being the only thing making her calm. She lied down on the floor and curled up into the fetal position.

Jason turned to Celestia, “Let me go!” He said, “Please.” He begged her. Celestia nodded understandingly, and her magical aura disappeared from his body. Jason rushed over to Emily, pulling her up and wrapping his arms around her, “It’s gonna be alright.” He whispered, “We’re gonna get through this, together.”

Princess Celestia sighed, “If you wish, you can live in Canterlot, with my Student Twilight Sparkle, and perhaps get a bit of comfort.” she suggested.

Twilight walked over to Celestia, “Actually Princess...” she said.

Celestia looked down, a small frown adorning her face, “Yes Twilight, what's the matter?” she asked worriedly.

“I...would actually like to stay in Ponyville with my friends. After getting them not to long ago, I don't really want to leave them.” Twilight admitted, smiling sheepishly.

Celestia smiled, “I am so proud to hear that. As your teacher, and Princess, I will say you may live in Ponyville in the library, and continue to study the magic of friendship with your friends.” she said, turning to Jason, “And if you wish, perhaps you can help them as well? If they so choose?” she suggested.

Twilight nodded, “I will.” she said, as she got hugged by the other five.

“Nice to see everyone hugging while we’re freaking out…” Jason muttered, “If you’ll take us, we would be grateful for a place to stay.”

Applejack looked at him, “Ah know of ah house thats fer sale in Ponyville ya two can live in, ifn ya decide ta live there.”

Jason nodded, “Thank you.” He glanced back down at Emily, “It’s gonna be alright Em.” He whispered.

“That isn’t helpful...in any way.” Emily muttered, a little better.

Celestia and Luna looked at them, “Since you have all decided, and I do think it may help dear Emily, I can send all of you to Ponyville.” Celestia said.

Jason groaned, “More horse puns.”

Celestia sighed, and her horn glowed, the ponies staying close to Jason and Emily, as they disappeared in a flash of yellow light into a library.

Jason groaned, “That was weird…” He muttered, “And nauseating…”

Twilight nodded, “Sometimes teleporting does that to ponies who haven't teleported before.” She studied him for a second, “You are something I haven't seen before, perhaps I could...” She noted Emily still in Jason’s arms and hesitated, “Maybe later...”

Applejack turned to them, “Ah can show ya the house, even give ya some startin bits ta git it an a few supplies ya might need.” She offered.

Fluttershy flew over to him, “M-may I see her, please?” She asked quietly.

Jason looked at each of them, “Twilight, questions first, we’ll see how it goes from there,” He turned to Applejack, “Thank you, that would be appreciated.” He turned to Fluttershy, “Please, Be careful…” He asked her, turning to her fully.

“I will.” Fluttershy said, taking Emily out of his hands gently and flying onto the ground, petting her hair as she talked to her softly. Surprisingly, Emily started to look calmer, and eventually fell asleep.

Jason smiled, “Thank you.” He turned back to Twilight, “What kind of questions?”

Twilight sighed, “It can wait until later...you're probably tired, and everypony still needs to get back home. Maybe tonight you can sleep here in the guest room, and tomorrow Applejack can help you get the house.” She said.

Jason nodded, “Thank you, really,” he turned to face all of them, “I might have seemed very rude earlier, and I just wanted to say thank you.”

”Well, this has been a grand old adventure.” The staff began to say, making Rainbow Dash stare at it. ”And I don’t doubt there will be many, many more to come, and I hope I shall be able to get Emily ready in the way’s of Magicka.” The staff paused, “Call me Imloch, it was my name when I was alive.”

Twilight sighed, “I'll see you girls tomorrow, I need to get the guest room I found earlier ready, and...Rainbow, Pinkie, leave Imloch alone please.” she said exasperatedly, “Come on, I’ll show you to the room Jason...” She said, picking the sleeping Emily up in her magic.

“Thanks Twilight.” Jason said, picking up Imloch and following Twilight upstairs, as the other mares left.

Chapter 3

Emily opened her eyes and sat up quickly, looking around the room. The room was plain, with a light brown desk at one end. She was sitting on a bed, quite a comfortable one at that, with a similar one right next to it. A circular window with a wooden plus sign going through it showed what looked to be a small town, with a tall, circular building being the most prominent. Next to her bed was a small bedside table, and next to the door was the staff. “Glad to see you are awake.” Imloch quipped.

She sighed, “So much for it being a dream and me getting drugged by some weird guy...” she muttered, lying back down on the bed.

”How are you?” He asked, ”Besides being stuck in an alternate universe?”

Emily turned her head on the pillow to look at him, “I guess I’m ok...not really happy, but I don't feel like having a panic attack again.” She said.

”That’s good.” Imloch replied, ”Jason was worried about you.”

Emily sat back up, and leaned against the wall behind her, “I guess he would, being that he has never seen me having a panic attack, then again, he has never seen either of us stuck in magic pony world, and you didn't help me much either, what with you talking, and all that.” she said, rubbing her eyes of sleep.

Imloch sighed, ”I am sorry about that, I did not realize that you would adversely react,” He paused, ”Whether you realize it or not, you do have magic in your blood, and when you used me against the nightmare spawn, it, activated, so to say.”

Emily frowned, “And it woke you up. I am supposed to believe a talking magic staff, that any member of my family in the past, used to be a mage, when all of that is myth and legend?” She asked.

”All myths have a grain of truth, I am your very distant ancestor, and I can recognize the magic within someone. I could teach you, if you wish.”

Emily shook her head, “No thanks, not really interested in being magical.” She replied.

Imloch sighed, ”As you wish, but the offer will always be open, now, I feel that I have accumulated enough energy to change my form into something more suiting to a mage.” The Staff began to glow brightly, blinding Emily for a second. As the light dimmed, Emily stared at Imloch’s new form. He was now a bright grey six foot five inch staff, with a black leather binding around the middle, wide enough for two hands. The very bottom of the staff had turned into a blade, taking up about about twenty four inches in length of the overall height of the staff, with a purple cloth binding directly above it. The top of the staff had turned into a twisted root like shape, with a perfectly spherical purple gem inside. ”Ah, much better.”

Emily pulled the blankets off her legs, and pulled herself off the bed, standing up onto the oak floor. She walked over and picked him up from the middle. She didn't have to hold him with two hands, since he wasn't as thick or as heavy as a branch anymore, and studied him carefully, twisting her arm around to look at every detail, “Thats cool.”

”Thank you,” Imloch responded, ”I do prefer this form over a branch, but the branch form is very energy efficient.”

Emily shrugged, “I'm just happy that you aren't as heavy. Why were you holding up a door anyway, seems kind of stupid of you to do that...” She muttered, thinking.

Imloch was silent, “I am not sure.” He finally said, “When I become a branch, I go unto a type of trance state, where I just, exist. I do not think, I do not feel, I am just, there. It is possible that whomever built the temple put me there to keep it open for whatever reason.”

“Ok...” Emily said slowly, “Well, might as well see what's going on here...and why everything is wood, and smells like sap.” She said, opening the bedroom door with her free hand and looking outside into the hallway.

”Jason went with Applejack to see the house she mentioned last night.” Imloch said, ”I believe it was next to a, SugarCube Corner?”

Emily sighed, leaving the bedroom, “Thats good at least, but now I’m alone in a house with a pony...and a relative who should be dead.” she found some stairs leading down and walked down them, going down to the first floor.

A purple lizard-like creature with green spines on its back was cleaning the floor with a broom, turned as the stairs creaked, “Are you feeling alright?” He asked her, “You didn’t seem so hot yesterday.”

Emily stared at him as she got off the stairs, “I'm feeling ok. I knew ponies could talk and all here...but I didn't realize lizards could too.”

The creature glared at her, “I am not a lizard, why does everypony assume that?!” He growled in frustration, “I am a dragon!”

“Alright sorry, jeez, just never seen a dragon before, and usually I thought they had wings...and weren't small.” Emily said defensively.

”They also stood on four legs, what kind of dragon are you? I would say you were a chromatic dragon, but none of them are purple, and they are all evil.” Imloch added.

Emily looked down at him in her hand, “How many dragons have you met?” She asked.

Imloch chuckled, ”At least one of every type, Red, Blue, White, Green, Black, Bronze, Copper, Gold, Silver, and tons others. And all the non-metallic ones wanted to kill me.”

Emily nodded, “Ok...” she said, looking down at the mini dragon, “Are you here to try and kill me, or something?”

The dragon looked up at her like she was insane, “Kill you? Why would I want to do that? I’m Twilight’s assistant, she told me to wait here for you so I could bring you to the house.”

”Come again?” Imloch said in disbelief, ”You’re Twilight’s assistant?”

Emily looked around, “Not the weirdest thing happening right now...considering you're a talking staff, this library looks like its a tree, and ponies are everywhere...” she said.

Imloch snorted, ”Talking weapons are more common than you would think, I once wielded a blade that could talk, his name was Enserric, and he helped me defeat a archdemon.”

Emily looked down at him for a minute, before she looked back at the dragon, “Just...bring me to where Jason, Applejack and Twilight are please.” she said.

The dragon nodded, “Sure thing, My name is Spike, it’s nice to meet you Emily, and you too Imloch.” He began to walk out the door.

Imloch began to grumble, ”I got my eye on you buddy…” He muttered quiet enough that only Emily heard him.

“Hes too small for you.” Emily whispered to him, walking after Spike.

Jason stood in the living room of the house they were going to buy, “It’s nice, but it might need some remodeling, the doorframes are too small for me and Emily.” He said.

Twilight walked into the living room from her spot in the kitchen, “Well...houses in Ponyville are usually made for ponies to live in, never has a Human actually come and gotten a house, so you can see why it would be a bit small for you.”

Applejack nodded, “Ahm sure ya can git used ta it, and if ya can't, maybe me and ma brother could do a bit ah work on making it more homely fer ya.” she suggested.

Jason nodded, “I understand that, wasn’t blaming anyone.” He said, “And speaking of homely, me and Emily are going to need jobs, to spruce up our homes and buy food and such.”

Twilight smiled, “There are a few places in town that could use a few helpful hooves. The quills and sofa shop across town for example, and maybe even Sugarcube Corner. I’m sure that even though Pinkie says that she has everything handled, its probably hard doing a lot on her own when the Cakes aren't around.” she said, thinking.

Jason rubbed the back of his head, “Anything more, not to sound rude, intellectual related? Like reading and writing and stuff like that?” he asked both of them.

Twilight tilted her head, “While me and Spike are able to take care of the library well enough on our own, I guess you can come around sometimes and help if you want to.” She suggested.

Jason smiled, “That would be cool, thank you Twilight.” He said, before a thought came to him, “The shadow creature, when it was pretending to be Lyra, said there was a movie named Star Mares? Is that true?”

Twilight nodded, “Yes, although I haven't seen it because I was busy studying back at the castle when it came out, I read the reviews of it in the paper a few days after, and it seemed to have gotten good reviews.” she said.

“If it’s the same as Star Wars then it got better then good reviews.” Jason smirked, as the front door opened.

“Twilight!” Spike’s voice called out, “Jason? Emily’s awake!” He yelled.

“I’m also here, so you could have just said I was with you.” Emily's voice said, before she appeared in the living room doorway, the staff different from the last time he saw it.

“Huh.” Jason said, staring at the staff, “I swear I’ve seen that staff before…” He mused.

”It’s called a Staffsword.” Imloch said.

Twilight studied it curiously, “That’s interesting...” She said, walking closer.

Jason sighed, “This is our new home, and I got a job!” He said, turning back to Emily.

“Technically, I didn't hire you, I said said you could come to the library and help out if you wanted if you felt like it at some point in the future. I would pay you for what you did, but that wasn't really what I would consider a full time job offer.” Twilight replied, stopping near Emily, looking at Imloch closely, “A magical item that can change the way it looks and speaks, interesting...”

Imloch sighed, ”Once again, that really isn’t that uncommon, I once killed an archdemon with a mix of my magic and a talking sword named Enserric.”

Twilight frowned, “Well, it is uncommon to see a magical item like you here in Equestria. I could study you and see how you work, so that maybe there could be more though to help out unicorns...” she mused.

”You probably wouldn’t want to do that…” Imloch said hesitantly, ”The only way to make a sentient weapon is to stuff the soul of a living being into it with forbidden magic…”

Twilight's eyes widened, “You mean like dark magic? Dark magic twists and destroys a ponies mind, making them a monster...I’m not allowed to use it, and I wouldn't want to. Maybe there is another way though...”

Imloch laughed suddenly, ”Dark Magic? There is no such thing, Magic is neutral, it only depends on the user, and how he or she uses it, Necromancy, Enchantment, Transmutation, Abjuration, Conjuration, Evocation, Divination and Illusion Magic. I was a practitioner of Necromancy myself, but I pride myself on knowing most spells.”

Twilights ears folded back, “Well, I will have you know that my talent is in magic, so I know a lot about magic as well, and I can tell you that dark magic does exist here, and it is an actual thing which is banned from use to everypony.” she said.

They could almost feel Imloch’s smirk, ”It’s a good thing that I am not a pony, for even in staff form, I can still use magic.”

Emily sighed, “I thought the magic only worked if I chose to use you, and you can't do anything unless I do something.” she said.

”That is not true…” Imloch fell silent as the purple gem lit up. A small badger like creature had appeared on the floor next to Twilight, ”That is a dire badger, created from the weakest summon creature spell.”

Twilight backed up from it, knowing how dangerous badgers were in general, “Thats impressive honestly, but also dangerous, considering what it is and the fact it will attack anything it deems a threat. I am not sure you were right in making the creature you summoned as an example be a badger.” She said, holding it in her magic for safety.

”You speak as though I have a choice on what I summon. Summon creature spells dictate what I can summon, and I cannot deviate from that.” Imloch sighed, the gem glowing as the badger disappeared, ”There are only two types of Magic, Arcane Magic, which comes from intense study and memorization. Anybody can learn magic, provided he/she is dedicated enough to learn the craft. The other kind of Magic is Divine Magic, which comes from the gods and goddesses. This Magic is usually to help, and to protect, but it also can hurt, and destroy, depending on what god or goddess you pray to.” Imloch explained tiredly, ”That spell took more out of me then I thought it would…”

Twilight looked at him, “Perhaps you aren't used to using magic anymore, or are not used to the normal magic of this world.” she suggested.

Applejack walked over to Jason as Twilight and Imloch talked, “Ah needa git back ta tha farm, so heres tha bits ta buy this place.” she gave him a small pouch, and quietly left the house.

”That may be, It has been at least 1000 years since I last cast a spell. But just remember young Sparkle. When it comes to magic, there is no good or evil, only those who choose to use it for those purposes. I was a Necromancer, but I saved the world on a couple occasions.”

Twilight sighed, “Alright, I suppose.” she looked up at Emily and Jason, “Ill leave you two to get settled into the house after you pay for it. I hope you both can relax while your here, and I’m sorry about what you had to go through, I can imagine being brought to another world would be difficult.” she said, walking out of the house with Spike, leaving the two humans and staff alone to fix up the house and buy it.

Jason turned to Emily, “Do you know where we go to buy the house? Cause I don’t think there’s a realtors office here.”

Emily shrugged, “Do they have a mayor like in most places? Maybe look for the mayors office if there is one.”

Jason nodded, “I think Twilight told me before you got here that the town hall is that really big building, that would be a good place to start.”

Emily smiled, “Let's head there then.” she said.

In the week that passed since Princess Luna’s return, life had returned to general normalcy to Ponyville, once they got used to the sight of two humans walking around. The ponies had freaked out at the sight of them going to the mayors office, and getting a house, but once they saw them a little more, and noticed they weren't hurting anypony, they relaxed and started to let their guard down. Jason had started going over to The Golden Oaks Library every couple of days, saving his money for something big. “You’ll find out when I put my plan into action.” Was all he said. Currently, he was helping Twilight and Spike reorganize the library, when Spike started hacking and coughing. “You alright Spike?” He asked the young drake.

Twilight rushed over as Spike belched out a letter. “Yeah, fine.” Spike said.

Twilight looked at Spike, “This is normal for him. His dragon breath sends and brings letters to me from the Princess. She must have something to tell me.” she said.

“Alright…” Jason muttered, his hand still over his rapidly beating heart. “What’s it say?”

Twilight picked up the letter Spike blew out with her magic, and read it. She smiled, “I have two tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala!” she exclaimed.

Jason raised an eyebrow, “Grand Galloping Gala?” He asked.

Twilight looked at him, “Oh right, you don't know what that is, sorry. The Grand Galloping Gala is the biggest gathering of the whole year, usually only the top nobility in Canterlot goes, and to be given two tickets...I'm Celestias student and I can't even get in for free, is basically how huge it is.” She said, smiling.

Jason however, was not smiling, “I see one problem with that.” He said, “You only have two, and you have five best friends who are likely to want to go.”

Twilights smile changed to one of horror, “Oh no...what am I going to do!?”

“You’re Celestia’s student, why don’t you just ask for more?” Jason replied, “I’m sure she would understand.”

Twilight frowned, “I don't want to sound like I’m ungrateful with the tickets she generously gave me. I can't just ask her for more like that! I have to choose...” she said sadly, walking out of the library.

Jason sighed, “Mind if I go after her Spike?” Jason asked, “You can finish up here, right?”

Spike nodded, “Sure thing.” He turned back to the shelves.

Jason walked out of the library, looking around, “Might as well get some help.” He muttered, walking towards his house. “Emily? Imloch?” He called out as he entered the house, “You guy’s here?”

”I’m in here Jason.” He heard Imloch say from the living room. Jason walked into the room, and spotted the staff leaning up against the wall.

Jason walked over to Imloch, “Emily at work?”

”Yes.” Imloch replied, ”Is something wrong?”

Jason shrugged, “Might be, Can you help me find Twilight?”

Imloch snorted, ”I cannot, tracking spells were not my domain.”

Jason frowned and walked outside without a word, “Now where would she-” He stopped as he heard singing coming from SugarCube corner, one of the few places Emily and him could eat everything sold. As he approached the building, he saw Twilight walk out of the bakery, and he could almost hear her stomach grumbling. “Need some grub Twilight?” Jason said, walking next to her, his hands in his hoodie pockets.

Twilight looked up at him, “I do, but so far Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie haven't let me eat anything. Im just lucky Pinkie Pie wasn’t singing about wanting the ticket outside...”

“You know there is a more reasonable way to do this…” Jason groaned, “Tell Celestia that each and everyone of your friends wants the ticket, I would hope for good reasons.”

Twilight shook her head, “No, she’s my teacher, and I don't want to seem ungrateful to her for what she gave me already.” She replied. “I have to figure out who should get it, so I’m going to talk to Rarity.” she said, heading over to the circular purplish building.

“Trust me Twilight, it’s the easiest thing to do. If she say’s no, she say’s no. There’s no harm is asking.” Jason implored. “But, if you’re insistent on being stubborn, fine, I won’t stop you.”

“Thank you.” Twilight said gratefully, leaving him in the street as she went over to the boutique.

Jason sighed, before walking towards Emily’s job at Quills and Sofas. He always thought it strange that a Quill store sold Sofas, or vice versa. As he neared the building, he felt a rumble in the ground. Turning around, he saw Twilight being chased by almost everypony in Ponyville. “Oh shit!” Jason swore, dashing towards Quill’s and Sofas and jumping into the store, landing in a roll and crashing into a display case, “Owwww…” He muttered in pain.

Emily sighed, watching him, “I’m going to have to fix that now...” she said, helping him get up, and start fixing the display.

“No time!” Jason said, grabbing her wrist and charging out the door, “Twilight is being chased by the entire bloody town for some tickets to a gala.”

“Again with you and my wrist!” Emily exclaimed, stumbling as she got her footing.

“We have to stop by the house first.” Jason yelled, letting go of Emily’s wrist and rushing inside. A second later he came out with Imloch, before throwing him to her, surprising her as she caught it after some fumbling, almost getting cut.

”Will you stop tossing me around!?” Imloch grumbled, ”I still have a sharp blade.”

“Do you know any non-lethal shielding spells?” Jason asked the still grumbling staff.

”A couple, why?” Imloch inquired.

“I’ll explain on the way.” Jason responded.

“Please Darling,” Rarity near whined, “Isn’t true love more worthy than any of the other reasons?” She asked the crouching unicorn.

“Oh please!” Rainbow Dash scoffed, “Me getting into the Wonderbolts is so much better.”

Fluttershy hesitantly spoke up, Angel leading her on, “I think seeing all of the wonderful creatures is good...but I can understand not wanting me...”

Applejack snorted, “Ah want ta go ta git ma family some money ta help round the farm, thas ah better reason than all of yalls.” she said.

Pinkie bounced in front of Applejack, “I really wanna throw a party for those high-strung nobles!” She giggled.

The crowd advanced on Twilight, until someone yelled, “ENOUGH!” Everypony glanced backwards to see the town’s resident Humans, Jason and Emily, “You should be ashamed of yourselves!” He roared, “She’s had enough hardships today without you cornering her like wild wolves!” He gestured to Emily, who reluctantly slammed Imloch into the ground, blade first. The orb lit up as a giant wall of stone surrounded the entrance, blocking the townspeople out, and The Elements of Harmony, Jason, Emily and Imloch Inside. Jason turned his glare to the other Elements, “Inside. Now!” He said, pointing them inside the library.

Fluttershy squeaked, and flew slowly through the door into the library with the others.

Jason held his glare, “Do you have any idea how Twilight felt today?” He said angrily, “She was so bloody distraught from only being able to invite one of you, and you all start arguing over who gets the damned thing?!” He groaned, “I knew this was going to happen Twilight, that’s why I told you to ask Celestia to get more tickets for your friends…” He sat down on the couch, “Friendships have been destroyed over less than this, believe me…”

Applejack spoke first, after walking over to Twilights, “He's right, we shoulda been hasslin ya like that. Ahm sorry, none ah us deserve tha extra ticket.” she said, Fluttershy nodding silently.

Jason sighed, “Now will you just ask her for more?” He asked Twilight.

Twilight looked at the ponies assembled, and at Jason and Emily, “Alright...” she said, “Spike!”

Spike came rushing down the stairs, “Yes Twilight?”

Twilight looked at him, taking the tickets out with her magic, “Give Princess Celestia these tickets back, and tell her I don't want the tickets or go to the Gala if this is what happens to me and my friends over not having enough.” She said, putting the tickets in his claws.

Spike nodded, finishing the letter and sending them all to Celestia through his fire breath. “Sent.”

“Thank you.” Twilight said, sighing relieved.

Jason stared at Twilight, “You’re insane. Instead of asking nicely for more, like any normal being would do, you send them back entirely?” He groaned, sinking back into the couch, “What is wrong with this world?”

Emily looked at him, “The fact its full of animals that can talk.” She said.

Twilight sighed, “If my friends fight each other over a single ticket, it seems like a better idea for nopony to go, then to be ungrateful to Princess Celestia by asking for more. The tickets probably cost a lot of bits.”

Jason facepalmed, “You do realize she is the Princess, and gets as many tickets as she wants, for free?” He turned to the Elements, “You do see where I am coming from, right?”

Applejack nodded, “Ah see tha she would get em fer free, ah guess.”

“Maybe...” Fluttershy muttered.

Jason turned back to Twilight, “See, they agree with me!”

Twilight sighed, “I just don't want to seem ungrateful to her for everything she has given me so far...”

Jason sighed, “I understand,” He said, as Spike burped up another letter.

Twilight looked at it worriedly, “What does it say Spike?” she asked.

Spike opened the letter, “My faithful student twilight, why didn't you just say so in the first place?” He read, “You could have just asked me for more tickets,” Spike held out six tickets, “One for each of you!” He said, placing the letter down on the table.

“Wow...” Emily said.

Jason smirked at Twilight, “Told you.”

Twilight sighed, “I guess you were right...” her stomach growled, still having not gotten to eat yet, and she blushed.

Jason laughed, “Go and eat, we’ll meet you at SugarCube Corner.”

The Elements left the library, leaving Jason, Emily, and Spike in the building. “Awww… No ticket for me?” Spike muttered dejectedly. Suddenly, Spike belched again, revealing three more tickets, “And a ticket for Jason, Emily, and of course you Spike.” Spike read. “Yeah! I got a ti- Why would I want to go to such a girly thing?” He faked groaned.

Emily smiled, rolling her eyes, “Whatever, I’m not going to wear a dress to this thing...they itch like hell.” She looked at Imloch, “I hope you know I am also not going to use you again.” she said, taking one of the tickets.

Jason smirked, “I think Rarity will make you a non-itchy dress.” He laughed, grabbing a ticket.

“I refuse to wear a dress on principle.” Emily said.

“It’s probably a black tie event,” Jason said as Rainbow Dash flew back into the library.

“You mind taking down the Stone wall?” She asked, pointing towards the outside.

Emily looked at the wall outside the door as she put her ticket into her pocket, “Go ahead and do that Imloch.” she said.

”As you wish.” Imloch sighed, the purple orb lighting up. There was a deep rumbling sound as the wall disappeared. ”Go eat. He muttered. ”But you do realize that was magic on your part? I never knew that spell.”

Emily frowned, “Well, I didn't know a spell to make a giant wall appear either, so...it wasn't me, because I didn't want to use magic.” she said.

”No, it was literally all you, You willed that wall out of the earth as a Unicorn here would, so that means you can use Equestrian Magic as well as mine…” Imloch said, somewhat awed at the fact, ”You could be better than me, with practice.

Emily shook her head, “No, not learning magic, not learning mage stuff, take him Jason, I don't want to talk about this.” She threw Imloch to Jason and walked out of the library.

Jason sighed, “She’ll come around eventually,” He said, following Emily, Spike close behind him as they went to Sugarcube Corner.

Bonus Chapter 1, I AM A LICH!

Author's Note

Me and Pen have decided to make a chapter with Twilight and Imloch discussing Magic, primarily Imloch's. We're gonna have a chapter like this every so often, just to give some insight into Imloch's Magic.

Bonus Chapter 1, I AM A LICH!

”You wanted to talk to me?” Imloch asked Twilight from his place on the mantle. ”This really is demeaning…” He muttered.

Twilight giggled sheepishly, “Sorry, I can’t really put you down somewhere so you could be upright, and holding you in my magic for the whole conversation would be a bit...odd.” she turned to Jason, “Thanks for bringing him with you here.” she said.

Jason smiled, “No problem, I actually had a question for you, but it can wait until afterwards.” He responded.

Twilight nodded, “Ok.” she turned to the mantle, “I was interested about the last time we talked, and you said you knew multiple forms of magic. I wanted to have a bit of an interesting topical research on magic with you.”

”Alright, what do wish to know first?” Imloch asked.

Twilight tilted her head, “Well, when you and Emily were at the house, you were talking about how you can use magic on your own, but Emily thought only she could use you. Can any magic user use you as a staff, or is it a secular thing?” she asked.

”Anyone actually can use me, provided they are from my bloodline, Imloch explained, ”I am what is called an Enchanted Object, and some Enchanted Objects have requirements for use. Only those from my bloodline have the ability to use me.”

Twilight pouted, and her horn glowed, “So if I were to try and use you,” her magic picked him up from the mantle and brought him closer, “it wouldn't work, because I am not in your family line?” she surmised.

”Correct, you could use me as a melee weapon, hence my blade, but you could not access my power. He explained, ”Since you asked me a question, I believe it is fair that I ask you one.

She smiled, “What would you like to ask me?” she asked.

”I’ve seen you use magic, and it seems to just flow, when I had a body, well, every wizard has a certain amount of spells to cast in a day, then he/she needs eight hours rest, then another hour to prepare their spells again. Where do you get the ability to cast on demand?” He asked her.

Twilight tilted her head, thinking for a minute as she put him back on the mantle, “Well...each spell cast by a unicorn takes a bit of energy, the more complex and high powered, the harder it is to cast. For some unicorns, their magic is restricted to what their talent is, but since my special talent is magic, I can practice any spell in the spell books, and learn to use it. If I cast a lot of high level spells, I would get tired, but casting low level spells like telekinesis doesn't take much energy to do.” she explained.

”Ah, so you are more of a sorcerer than a wizard, see, as I’ve said, Wizards have to memorize their spells every day, but a sorcerers magic comes from within, they cast until they run out of Spell Points, as it is called, and then have to use something else, like a club, for running out of Spell Points does nothing to one’s physical abilities.” Imloch explained.

“For a unicorn, if they cast a high level spell that is beyond their capacity, there is a chance that they could get hurt, and for me that is also true. I need to practice slowly and not go over my limit, or I could damage myself.” Twilight said, “But how your people used to do spells sounds interesting...”

”It actually really isn’t, anyone could become a wizard, provided they have the dedication and patience to actually sit down and learn the spells. I believe it is your turn to ask a question.” Imloch replied.

Twilight nodded, “I believe so. How are you able to speak, if you are currently a staff? As far as I know, if a unicorn uses anything to help them with magic, they cannot speak.”

”Yes, but also, this is a different reality, different rules apply for the same things The way I speak is me projecting my thoughts out loud, it’s a trait that all sentient objects share on my world. It can get very annoying at times though, my sword started complaining whenever goblin guts were spilled on it.” Imloch chuckled, ”It’s been 6987 years since I saw him last.” He said wistfully.

Twilight was a bit green from the prospect of guts being involved, and she coughed, “Alright...I think it is your turn now to ask me a question then...” she said, coughing.

”Are there different spell schools?” Imloch asked, ”Like Necromancy, Enchantment, stuff like that?’

Twilight shook her head, “No, there are a few spell schools, but all of them teach the same thing. I was in Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns, which was one of the schools for the higher level unicorns to learn from, and I being her personal student, I would have all of my classes with Princess Celestia.” she replied.

”That isn’t what I meant.” Imloch responded, ”I do not mean a university of Magic. Necromancy is the power of death, unlife, and the life force, Conjuration is the summoning of creatures, and so on. Think of it like different book genres, there is fantasy, science fiction, non-fiction, historical fiction, and so on. Each of them show a different story. Do you see what I mean? Imloch asked.

Twilight nodded, “Yes I understand what you mean. We do not have any type of schools for that, because most unicorns are not skilled enough for that sort of thing. We also wouldn't have any classes for necromancy, because we believe that we should not disturb the dead, and magic to bring a pony back to life had been used before, and it didn't work to well. It wasn't pretty, and has since been a forbidden form of magic, as it disturbed the final resting place of a pony, who did not look happy to have been disturbed, and should not be used.”

”When I use Necromancy, it summons a spirit from somewhere, and depending on it’s strength, the spell creates an appropriate shell for it, such as a skeleton or a zombie. The highest necromancers of all were called pale masters, or also Liches. I was one of them.” He laughed suddenly, ”My skeleton arm could make one greet death in an instant if I wished, and it was great for scaring drunks.” His laugher calmed down a bit.

Twilight backed up a little, “Alright...but to answer your question better, no, we do not have specialized school like you apparently did, because most unicorns aren’t strong enough, and can only do little things. The most a normal unicorn could do is levitation and telekinesis.”

”Yes, your dressmaker friend Rarity is exceptional with it, even I do not have that level of control. But this chat has got me thinking about something…” Imloch stated.

Twilight shifted on her hooves a few times, “What is that?” She asked.

”Well, when Emily cast that spell, she didn’t use any incantations, which is the only way I can use magic, I just choose not to say them out loud… That also was not one of my spells…” Imloch said, ”Could Emily also be using Equestrian style Magic?”

Twilight tilted her head, “Hmmm...well, I wouldn't rule it out, but she might just have different magic preferences then you. While you're a necromancer, she could be some form of shielder...”

”You don’t understand, every spell that is cast in my world has an incantation, no matter what form of spell, even when I used my firewall spell, it had an incantation. Mage Shield, same thing. And specializations have nothing to do with it, though, If I had to guess, Emily would be an Evocator, mages that specialize in combat magic.” Imloch explained.

Twilight frowned, thinking, “Well, then perhaps she does have Equestrian magic, since the first time she used you was in Equestria to hit that nightmare monster, so perhaps her magic is based in Equestrian magic now. Even unicorns need to memorize the spells in the spell books to cast them though, I don't think she had a spell to make that wall.”

”It is possible she used telekinesis to lift that wall of earth out of the ground…” Imloch mused.

Jason stared at both of them, “I have no bloody idea what you’re talking about, either of you.”

Twilight looked over at him, “I didn't realize you were still here, I thought you had left to go somewhere already.” She said, surprised.

“I did, and got Emily,” He pointed behind him, “We’ve been standing here since you were talking about Imloch being a Lich.” He deadpanned.

“Wonderful timing honestly.” Emily said, walking into the doorway, “I couldn’t understand most of it, since it was all about magic, but it sounded interesting.”

”My offer to teach is still open.” Imloch said, ”No spells if you don’t want them, but some information if you want it.”

Emily frowned, “As much as that sounds interesting, my answer is still no.” She replied.

”As you wish.” Imloch said, ”Twilight, thank you for talking with me, but Emily and I have to go to that place to do that thing.” He said, teleporting into Emily’s hand, ”He’s gonna ask her on a date,” He whispered so only Emily could hear him, ”We should probably leave them alone.”

Emily sighed, “I'm going to bring him back to the house, then go on a jog to see if I can run any faster than I can now.” She said, walking out of the room and outside.

Twilight frowned, “I still had more to speak to him about.” She complained. “There was so much to ask.”

“He’ll be back, he was excited for this as well.” Jason said, glancing out the door, “About that question I wanted to ask…”

Twilight looked at him, “Oh right, what would you like to talk to me about Jason?” She asked, sitting down.

Jason rubbed the back of his head, his face suddenly really red, “Well, I was wondering if you wanted to see Star Mares with me?” He asked hopefully, pulling out two tickets from his pocket, “It’s at Friday, eight PM.”

Twilight hummed, “Well, I will have to check my schedule to see if I’m free at that time, and I do want to see it, so I will have to get back to you on that until I’m sure that nothing else is going on at that time.”

Jason looked a bit bummed, “Oh, alright, get back to me whenever you can,” He placed one of the tickets on the table, “Just in case.” He said, “I should probably get going, I kind of want to explore Whitetail Woods a bit.” He began to walk out the door.

Twilight nodded, “Alright.” she said, “Do you know where Spike is? I need to see if anything has been scheduled for Friday, and he keeps the schedules for me.” she said, looking around.

Jason smirked, “Where else would he be?” He asked. “Rarity’s.”

Twilight chuckled, “Well, could you check on him and see if I have anything scheduled that day? I think I do, but I'm not quite sure...”

Jason smiled, “Sure thing.” And he walked out the door.

Chapter 4

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 5

Jason grunted as he pulled the rope in his hands, helping raise the banner for Applejack’s award ceremony, “Remind me why you couldn’t do this with Magic?” He asked Twilight.

Twilight shrugged, “The way I understand it, when Ponyville does ceremonies or other important things, they do it the earth pony way.” She said.

Jason groaned, “Then why has Rainbow Dash been helping me by flight?” He jerked his head over to the blue flyer, “Isn’t that a type of Magic as well!?”

Twilight tilted her head, thinking, “Well, I assume so, but sometimes it isn't safe for earth ponies to be high up off the ground, so its ok for a pegasus to help sometimes.”

Jason grunted, “Fine.” He growled, “But I am really not the right person for this!”

Rainbow glared at him, “Stop your whining,” She said from the right of the banner, which read ‘Thank you Applejack!’ “Me and Flutters aren’t strong enough to lift this by ourselves, and all the other Pegasi and Earth ponies were busy with other parts, Twilight and the other Unicorns can’t use their Magic, Emily is on a walk near the woods, which makes you the only pony for this job!” She scolded him.

Jason glanced downwards, “Scolded by the Queen of recklessness, whoda thunk it?” He muttered.

Twilight sighed, looking at them from the ground, “Just be happy you can put the banner up for her. I need to go back to memorizing these cards...” she said, looking at the huge stack gleefully.

Jason sighed, “Alright, can you attach the plank to the wall?” He grunted to Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash the latter rolling her eyes.

“Yes, yes I can.” She said, grabbing a roll of adhesive and sticking the plank to the wall, before tossing it to Fluttershy, “Here ya go Flutters.”

Fluttershy hastily tried grabbing it, tossing it around in her hooves quickly before getting a firm grip on it, and looking at Rainbow, “Thanks...” she said, taking a piece of it off and gently tapping it.

Jason let go of the rope, looking at the wooden banner with caution, “You sure the tape will hold it?” He asked, “Don’t seem very sturdy.” A sudden scream pierced the air, making Jason pale, “That’s Emily!” He yelled, racing towards the sound of the scream.

Rainbow Dash raced ahead of him, “It came from Sweet Apple Acres!” She exclaimed.

Emily walked as fast as she possibly could away from the house, and by the time she had gotten to the outskirts of Sweet Apple Acres, she had started walking again, calmer now than before. She looked around as she walked, keeping herself from thinking about what had happened earlier. She found it odd that the Apples lived so close to the Everfree, but it seemed safe to her, she hadnt met anything in there besides the Lyra imposter anyway, so she didn't pay it much mind.

Her mind couldn't help but go back to her bajillion plus great grandfather going crazy from her making a little joke, and terrifying her into running away like a scared six year old. She rolled her eyes, “Why is it I have the most insane relative stuck with me.” she muttered, continuing to walk, looking at all of the apple trees that Applejack had harvested, “How does she do that...” she muttered. distracting herself. A sudden growl cut through the silence, emanating from the trees. A giant wolf, made out of branches and bark, with glowing green eyes walked out of the forest, two more flanking it on either side. They growled menacingly, advancing on her.

Emily sighed, “So much for it being a harmless forest… there are tree wolf shits.” she backed up slowly. The head wolf growled louder, before leaping towards her.

“Shit!” Emily screamed loudly, turning around and running. The wolves, unfortunately were faster than her, and quickly caught up, one raking her with it’s claws deep across the side of the stomach while another leaped on top of her.

“Scream for me.” The one that leaped growled in a gravelly voice.

Emily scrunched up her nose, a hand holding her stomach as blood poured out, “No way, you smell like shit, wheres a lighter when you need it...” she groaned.

The wolf looked slightly surprised, “You can understand our language? Ponies cannot fathom the wolven-speak,” He growled, “What are you?”

Emily looked up at him, and groaned in pain from the movement, “Human.” She said, getting her hand she wasn't using to hold her stomach and punched the tree wolf in the snout, barely doing anything but making it stare at her.

The Timberwolf was definitely surprised now, this creature was not only not scared of it, but it dared to punch him? The alpha of his pack? He had respected this, Human, before, for showing no fear in the face of it’s death, but now it was going to die slowly, watching as it’s entrails were devoured. He growled, opening his giant maw. “GET AWAY FROM HER!!” Imloch’s voice cried out, as a ice blue ray struck the Timberwolf on the side, a frozen air coming off of it.

The Alpha rolled off of Emily, the side that was struck frozen solid, “H-how…” It muttered, unable to speak right due to the cold.

Imloch stood there in his human form, eyes glowing dangerously as he rushed towards Emily, “Are you alright?” He asked her gently, the glow dying as he kneeled next to her.

Emily was still on the ground where the Timberwolf had left her, and she shook when she saw Imloch next to her, she tried to move away, groaning from the deep gashes from the other timberwolf. Her hand moved slightly so she could look at the blood soaked in it.

Imloch took her hand gently, “You have no idea how sorry I am for what I did earlier, and you have complete right to know why I reacted as I did, but right now you need medical attention.” He gently lifted her up, before glaring at the three Timberwolves, “If you attack her, or any resident of the town ever again, You shall have the slayer of god’s to deal with.” He said in a low, dangerous voice as he raised the hand not supporting Emily, it glowing a deep purple light. “Do you understand?”

The alpha growled at him, “We shall leave, for now.” He raced away, the two other’s following him. Emily fell unconscious, blood going down her body and soaking her shirt, dripping off her hand as she fell against Imloch.

Imloch’s eyes widened, “No, no! Stay with me Emily!” He lifted her up onto his back as he raced back towards town.

“Emily!” Imloch heard a voice cry out, “Emily where are you!?”

“JASON!” Imloch cried, going around a curve to see Jason and Twilight racing towards them, Rainbow Dash above them, paling and dashing away with her cheeks puffed out as if filled with something.

“Imloch! What happened!?” Jason asked, seeing Emily unconscious on his back.

“Wolves made out of wood.” He muttered, wincing, “I don’t have enough energy to cast a full Teleportation spell, Twilight could you do it?” He pleaded with her.

Twilight looked at Emily, “Do you want me to teleport you to the hospital?” she asked, finally looking at Imloch after a minute.

He shook his head, “It would be a waste, send Emily and Jason, he can do it better than me.” He gently lowered Emily into Jason’s arms, “Please, hurry!” He pleaded.Twilight's horn glowed, surrounded Jason and Emily quickly, before it brightened and they disappeared, leaving Imloch and Twilight in the orchard.

“Why are there wolves made of wood?” Imloch asked Twilight, “Are those a natural thing? Or did some Mage’s spell go horribly wrong a long time ago?”

Twilight sighed, “Those are called Timberwolves, and they have been around since the Everfree became the horrible dark place it is.” she replied.

Imloch nodded, seemingly suddenly wary, “We should make haste,” He muttered, “They said they would be back.”

Twilight tilted her head, “You speak Timberwolf?” She asked, thinking, “That seems interesting...but I agree, we need to go. I need to go check on Applejack though.”

Imloch nodded, “Can you teleport me? I’m going to change into a staff in a second, and once you do that It should be easier to teleport me.” He said, not realizing he had changed back.

Twilight held him up with her magic, “I have a quick question before I do, how did you change back into a human form so fast after a few hours of being one before, and how did you know she was in trouble from the house. The house is further than where we were setting up...”

Imloch was silent, “She was in trouble, that’s how I changed, as for how I knew…” He trailed off, “I’ll let you know when I figure it out.

Twilight nodded, “Ok.” her horn glowed and he teleported away. She looked over at the forest for a second, before she headed deeper into Sweet Apple Acres to talk to Applejack about tomorrow.

Teleporting was a peculiar sensation. It gave one the feeling of being stretched to infinity then being snapped back in an instant. Imloch heard a startled yelp as he reappeared in a green and white hallway, “God Imloch, warn a man when you’re about to teleport to someone!” Jason said as he picked Imloch up from his lap.

Imloch didn’t respond, instead choosing to look at the window across the hall. “How is she?” He asked Jason.

Jason sighed, “Docs say she was lucky, missed all vital parts, despite how deep the wolf went. Their healing magic fixed her up in a second, they say we can go in when she wakes, which should be soon.” He sighed once again. “What happened?” He asked.

Imloch was still silent, before sighing, ”I lost my temper. It happened too much when I was a human, especially in my teen years.”

The door to Emily’s room opened, revealing a brown colored earth pony with a hourglass cutie mark and a bow tie. “She’s awake, you may go see her if you wish.”

Jason nodded, “Thank you Doctor.” He picked up Imloch and walked into the room, smiling at Emily, “How are you feeling?”

Emily looked at him, looking a bit tired, but she managed to smile, “Im feeling better than before, considering. That wolf didn't even react at all to my punch though… wasn't all that happy. Im fine now though, not really sure if I have scars though...”

Jason smirked lightly, “You basically punched a tree. I don’t blame it for not responding.” He leaned Imloch against the wall, “I think someone wants to apologize for what he said/did.”

Imloch sighed, “As I said before, you have no idea how much I regret for what I did before… I told you I would give you an explanation and I meant it.”

“I don't… remember you talking about any explanation. I might have been too busy losing brain cells or something...” Emily said, rubbing her eyes, “I’m sorry I called you a hippy wizard, if that helps anything.”

Imloch sighed, ”It does, thank you… but you both deserve to know why I got angry… When I use my Human form, it seems to give me some vestige of my eighteen year old personality, my anger included.” A bright poof of smoke appeared, which cleared, revealing Imloch as a human. “I was a desperate man back then…”

He sighed again. “When I was fourteen, I lived in the outskirts of a city lost to time. It was a bastion of resistance amidst a land of giants, bandits and dragons. My family wasn’t rich, but we were able to get by. One day, when we went to the fair, I saw a mage do the most fantastic things, create balls of fire and make them form complex shapes, summon mystical creatures, and enlarge others in the audience. I knew that I wanted to do that, I wanted to use magic to help the people I met, those who couldn’t protect themselves.”

He smiled at the memory, before his look became dark, “Of course, this didn’t sit well with my former friends, who I had previously played in the woods with. When I told them I was going to become a wizard, they turned on me, mocking me, calling me sissy, meaningless things, but to a boy of 15, who lost all his friends in a single day...” He sighed once more. “Now you can see why I got so angry. Whenever someone mocks me, I go back to that day, the day I lost all of my friends.”

Emily frowned, “I’m sorry for doing that then...”

Imloch cracked a small smile, “It’s alright, you didn’t know, and we both forgave each other, so we’re cool.” His expression turned serious, “This could have been avoided if you did know at least rudimentary combat magic.” He said.

Emily sighed, and sat up more against the pillow, “I bet it could have… but I still really don't want to learn magic.”

Imloch sighed, “There are so many ways you could have solved this problem without being hurt at all, you could have sent flames out of your hands to burn the trees, or a ray of frost to freeze them, then use a magic missile spell to shatter them. Or you could have used a spell of Mage Armor to just block all their attacks until you got to safety! This could have been avoided with 101 reasons, if you had just listened to me.”

Emily looked at Jason, who nodded. She sighed, “Fine, I’ll learn magic later.”

Imloch looked happier than he had ever been, “That is a weight off of my mind,” He said as he glanced at the clock, “It’s getting late, we should probably let you rest.”

Just at that moment, the earth pony stallion from before walked in, “Miss Tucker needs one night of observation at the hospital, to make sure there wasn’t something we missed when we were healing her.”

Jason smiled at him, “Thanks, Doctor…”

The stallion smiled back, “Just The Doctor.”

Jason had glanced back at Emily while the doctor was talking, and as soon as he said that, he whipped his head back, only to find that the stallion had vanished. “No way.” He whispered.

Emily lied down in the bed, “Bye guys...”

Jason looked back at Emily, a kind smile on his face, “We’ll be back tomorrow, don’t worry.” He assured her.

“‘I’m not worried.” Emily said, “Mostly tired.”

Imloch smiled slightly, “Get your rest then.” He said gently, as him and Jason walked out of the room and towards their home as Emily fell asleep, a bit uneasy.

Jason knocked on Emily’s hospital room door, “Are you ready? Applejack’s award ceremony is going to start soon.” He called through the door.

Emily got up and opened it, “I guess...” She was wearing a white and light red striped tee-shirt and a pair of faded blue jeans.

Jason smiled, “Good to see you’re back on your feet.” He said with a smile.

“Yeah. Unicorns are really good at medicine and stuff” she said, looking around the hospital hallway a little more subdued than she normally is, thinking.

Jason noticed this, “You ok?” He asked her, “You seem a bit, quiet.”

Emily looked at him as she got out of her room, “Fine, just had an odd dream. Im fine though. The doctors didn't even leave a scar, which is cool.”

Jason looked at her when she said that, “You do realize who the Doctor that was looking after you was, right?” He said as they strolled down the hallway.

Emily shrugged, “I don't care.”

Jason smiled, “Think time traveling alien with a blue box that’s bigger on the inside.”

Emily rolled her eyes, “Again with you and your love for these shows.” she said, leaving the hospital without checking out.

“It makes sense!” He insisted as they walked outside, “The Doctor has traveled to alternate universes before, and his cutie mark is a Hourglass, and he had the 11th doctor’s bow tie!”

Emily sighed, “You told me that every planet he visited, everything was human like. this isn't human like. That isn't the doctor, and you're crazier than me.”

Jason sighed, “Alright, believe what you wish, but he is The Doctor.” He said as they approached Ponyville Town Hall. “We’re here.”

“Looks nice.” Emily said. They appeared to be a bit late, considering Twilight was walking off the stage in a huff as the mayor addressed everypony.

“What happened?” Jason asked Twilight as they walked next to her.

“I couldn't deliver the speech I wanted to do...” Twilight huffed, sitting down next to them, her head low with her ears back.

Jason patted her on the back, “Applejack knows you wanted to.” He said, before noticing said farm-pony, “Is it just me, or does she look really tired?” He asked Emily. Applejack indeed looked tired, she was stumbling around sleepily, dark bags under her eyes and she was yawning loudly.

“Thank ya...fer this award fer...something. Its shiny.” she muttered, leaning forward and back as she made whooshing noises, looking at herself in the shiny golden metal.

“Dear god shes like a puppy when shes tired...” Emily facepalmed, and slowly slid her hand off her face.

“Alright…” Jason said, glancing curiously at Emily. “What has she been doing?” He said, turning back to Applejack.

Twilight sighed, “I went to check on her yesterday while you were at the hospital, and she wouldn't listen to me when I saw she was running herself ragged for Applebuck Season. I suppose she has been applebucking the whole time.” She said, watching Applejack slowly drag the trophy off the stage.

Jason turned to Emily, “How many trees still had apples when you were walking?” He asked her.

Emily glanced at him, “You expect me to remember that when the highlight of my day was three timberwolves attacking me?” she asked.

Jason shrugged, “Just asking. It’s not like she has any prior commitments, right?” He asked, turning to Twilight.

Twilight looked at the ground, “I was interrupted by Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash talking about how Applejack would help them.” she said.

Jason groaned, “Great… Just bloody great.” He muttered, “Well, what’s the worst that could happen?” He asked, turning to Emily as the crowd finished dispersing. “Imloch wanted to see you in his tower.”

Emily blinked, “He has a tower? When the fuck did he manage to get one overnight?” She asked.

Jason frowned, “Well, a more accurate description is that he wanted to see you in our tower…” He said.

“We don't have a tower.” Emily said.

“You’ll see…” He muttered, beginning to walk towards their house. “I’m amazed we couldn’t see it from the ceremony, it’s taller than the bloody town hall…” Emily followed him, rolling her eyes.

“We now live in a wizards tower.” Jason deadpanned, gesturing up at the giant stone tower. The tower was indeed taller than city hall, made with imposing grey stone and arrow slits for windows. At the very top was a balcony, with a telescope on it. “Ready to go inside?” He asked in the same deadpan tone.

Emily looked at it, “I would rather live outside honestly...”

Jason sighed, “Trust me, so would I, but he threatened me, and to an extent, you, with animating our bodies and forcing us to sleep inside.” He began grumbling, “I swear when I get my hands on that bastard…” He grumbled angrily.

Emily sighed, and walked over to the large wooden door, opening it and walking in. The inside was no better than the outside, a black carpet in the middle, covering a four foot diameter circle of cold stone floor. The walls were bare, save for a mirror on one part, which was very ornate. There were no other doors on the walls, nor no apparent ways up or down. “Well fuck him and the odd wizard towers he apparently grew up with.” she muttered, looking around.

“I think all of this is really cool,” Jason said, a bit more energetic, “Except Imloch wouldn’t let me have any electricity, which means no charging my phone…” He grumbled, taking it out, “It’s on like ten percent, and that’s only because I had a spare battery.” He muttered, “Stupid wizard, saying electricity does weird things to magic.”

Emily glared at him, “You can't even use it to call anybody anyway. All that is possible for it is music at this point, which consists of Star Wars.” she muttered, looking up at the ceiling, “I need stairs to actually go up!”

Jason’s face turned excited again, “Actually no.” He said, walking towards the mirror, “Arch wizards study.” He said, as a bright flash emanated from the mirror, and the room vanished, replaced by another room, this one more furnished. A brown oaken desk sat at one end of the room, a black banner behind it, embroidered with a silver skull. A fireplace sat to the right of them, a blazing fire within it, and the same mirror that was on the previous floor stood behind them. A black and silver robed wizard sat at the desk, looking expectantly at the duo.

Emily looked around, “Lovely. When exactly do I get to have the staff thing back?” she asked.

Imloch glowed, vanishing and reappearing next to them, a slightly manic look in his eyes. “You don’t, unless I wish to become a staff.” He said in a rapid tone, “Or I loose all my energy, and the power surge should drain within the hour. So don’t worry, I’ll be nice and calm in an hour.” He placed his arms around Emily and Jason, “Have you ever realized how beautiful the skies are at night?” He asked, “I mean, you can see Aquarius Capricorn Pisces Virgo Scorpio and so many many many others!” He said at sonic speed.

“Oh my God...” Emily puttered, putting her face in her hands.

“The energy surge must have activated my latent ADHD attribute, which makes me ultra hyper, on top on of a sugar rush and a dozen coffees.” He giggled, “I’m like Pinkie Pie times five!” He laughed manicly, beginning to bounce around, before freezing mid jump, and falling flat on the floor, face first.

Emily looked at him, “I am more scared of him this way then when he is angry...” She whispered, looking at Jason.

Jason looked like he didn’t know whether to laugh hysterically or cry for help. “Yeah… Pinkie Pie times five? I think any sane being would be scared of that…” He muttered as Imloch turned back into a staff. “He just began acting like this at like midnight, I was too bloody stressed to sleep, made the entire house this, and just would not shut the fuck up…” He rubbed his temples, “A headache on top of the house into some kind of wizard tower…”

Emily smiled, “I think im happy then I wasn't around for that.”

Jason groaned, “You bet your ass you were lucky… Do you know what it’s like having him bounce around, reciting the different elements of casting a spell in Draconic? All through the bloody night?”

Emily laughed, picking Imloch up, “Not really, but I know of a certain nerd who recites Star Wars quotes.”

“The Force will be with you always.” Jason said, smirking, “In this case it’s truer than most.”

“Its magic, it isnt the force like in star wars.” Emily rolled her eyes, putting Imloch down on the desk, and going over to the mirror, “I want to see if he gave me a room...”

Jason smiled, “I think you’ll like it.” He said as he got up. “Just say ‘Emily’s Bedroom.’ and you’ll be teleported to the room.”

Emily smiled, looking at the mirror, “Emily’s bedroom.” the room changed. It was a big ornate room, and looked like it was shaped like a half soccerball. There were shelves on all of the walls, with some books on them. Her bed was huge, and was covered in big fluffy warm looking velvet blue sheets. There was a dresser and a closet in a corner. Emily looked around, “Cool.”

Jason flashed into the room, smiling, “I figure you can add some personal touches later on.” He turned to her, “Like it?”

Emily nodded, “I like it, not really sure about shelves everywhere...”

Jason sniggered, “I think those are for spell books. And experiment notebooks.” He placed a hand to his temple in a mock headache, “I see a lot of studying and experimentation in your future.”

Emily sighed, “I only agreed to get him off my back...Im going to try and get out of it anyway I can honestly...”

”Yeah… That’s never going to happen…” Imloch said, a flash emanating from the portal. “I took you as an apprentice, I have to teach you at least some basic magic to defend yourself.”

Emily sighed, “How are you able to always teleport everywhere whenever I talk?”

“I’m magical that way.” Imloch smirked. “Do you like your room? Jason gave some input.”

Emily sighed, nodding, “Yeah, I like the room. I wish I had the couple trophies I got for soccer though...”

Imloch was silent, “That… Might be possible… While It is impossible to send a living creature through dimensions, bringing a non-organic thing might not be…” His face gained a thoughtful look, “Do you remember where the approximate locations they were in?”

“On a shelf… Where else would a trophy be put?” Emily said.

Imloch sighed before closing his eyes. “Mirane Confren…” He chanted, a soft glow emanating from the shelves, as Emily’s trophies were moved across space/time. As the spell finished, Imloch staggered, before collapsing onto the floor, turning back into a staff as he did.

Jason sighed, picking up the staff, “Is that going to happen every time?” He asked.

Emily shrugged, “I wouldn't really mind.” She went over to the shelves and looked at her second and first place trophies.

Jason stood next to her, “I guess it’s nice to have some things from home…” He said, a saddened look in his eyes.

Emily glanced at him, “You might not have stuff like trophies and whatever to decorate a shelf, but you have a friend with you.”

Jason nodded, smiling slightly, “Yeah, I guess so.” He sighed, before a humungous crash echoed throughout the tower. “It came from the top floor!” He said, before going to the mirror, “Balcony!” He said, before teleporting to said room.

Jason’s eyebrow raised as he saw Rainbow Dash sprawled on the floor, the Telescope in ruins next to her. “Uhhg…” She moaned.

Emily teleported in after him after naming the balcony, “What the hell happened to her, did she get hit by a train and not die by some miracle?”

“No…” Rainbow’s voice came from the ground, “Applejack was helping me with a trick, and she fell asleep.” She grumbled.

“Falling asleep sent you into a telescope...” Emily wondered, “The hell is with this world...”

Jason glared at Rainbow, “So, lemme get this straight, you asked Applejack, who has one of the biggest harvests in Ponyville, if not all of Equestria, to help you with a trick, while she should be working?” He asked, getting a bit miffed, “Doesn’t that seem a bit selfish?”

Rainbow glared back at him, however, a bit of hesitation sat behind her eyes, “Well...I knew that she had the harvest and all, but she said it wouldn't be an issue and could do it,” She said, “And besides, she did agree to help Flutters and Pinkie too, so I didn't think it would be a huge deal.”

Emily stared down at the ground, a bunch of ponies freaking out, “Why are they running from bunnies and upchucking...”

Jason paled, racing over to the edge, “Oh no…” He muttered, “Why couldn’t you have left her alone?” He asked, racing back to the mirror, “Ground floor!” He yelled, the flash blinding Emily and Rainbow. They saw him race out the door on the bottom floor and go towards the library.

Emily sighed, helping Rainbow Dash stand up, “She has bad priorities.”

RD sighed, “I guess Jason was right… I really shouldn’t have asked her…” She spread her wings and took off, pausing and turning back to Emily, “I’m sorry for what happened at Sweet Apple Acres, I panicked, and I let a friend down…” She sighed again, “I’m sorry.”

Emily blinked, “What? You were there?” she asked.

Rainbow nodded in confusion, “Yeah… You were gushing blood, and I had just never seen that before… I flew away as quick as I could.” She blushed, “I let you down, and I’m sorry…” She sighed again, “Are we cool?”

“I was barely conscious enough to know who was there or a conversation going on. As far as I'm concerned, you don't need to apologize, I would probably run from myself as well if I could. Your fine.” Emily said.

Rainbow sighed, this time in relief, “Thanks, that’s a weight off my mind. I’m gonna see what I can do to stop the mass panic.” She dashed away, leaving Emily on the balcony.

Emily waved goodbye to her and sighed, looking back over the balcony, picking up Imloch from where Jason dropped him as she watched the ponies below.

Jason burst through the door of The Golden Oaks Library, nearly tackling Twilight, “Is Applejack trying to help our friends and failing horribly?” He asked once he had his balance back.

Twilight looked up at him, a grim look on her face, “Well, considering what's going on, I would say yes. Pinkie Pie said she left for the farm when i checked on some of the ponies at the infirmary due to her muffins, so Im going to ask her one more time to let us help her.” she said, trotting quickly out of the library.

Jason was impatient to get to Sweet Apple Acres as he followed Twilight, “Can we run instead of speed-walk?” He asked.

Twilight sighed, “I'll teleport us.” her horn glowed, and she closed her eyes as she concentrated, her spell popping a few times in failure before finally sending both of them to the orchard.

Jason rubbed his stomach, “Still don’t like teleportation…” He muttered.

Twilight looked at him, “Luckily I didn't burn my passanger this time...thats good...a bit interesting... she shook her head, and ran off further into the orchard.

Jason sighed and caught up with her, “Applejack seems to have done a good job with this half of the Orchard.” He said.

“Yeah, she did.” Twilight agreed, trotting into a part of the orchard that had a few trees that still had apples in them, catching sight of Applejack a few trees further.

“OI, Applejack!” Jason called, waving his hand, “Can we speak to you?”

Applejack looked around at his voice and stumbled a bit, trying to continually kick a tree that she wasn't anywhere close to, “Yeah, jus lemme finish up tha orchard, jus got this one tree left an ah will finally be done.” she backed up, and kicked the tree.

Jason raised an eyebrow towards her, leaning down to Twilight, “She does realize this is only one half of the Orchard, right?” He whispered to her.

Twilight sighed, “Sleep deprivation. She hasn't slept at all for the weeks since Apple Bucking Season has happened, and the only thing she has done is help her friends and buck trees. She has hit against the ground multiple times, hit her head against a tree branch, and refused to listen to me telling her she needs help.”

“Ah don need help! Ah kin do everythin on mah own… jus this last apple...” Applejack muttered, hitting the tree continually, smiling satisfyingly as all the apples fell.

Jason groaned, “For the love of…” He strode towards Applejack, kneeling down and placing his hands on her withers, “Applejack.” He said, staring into her eyes, “You have done one bloody half of the bloody orchard!” He yelled, “One half! Can you do the other before you just freaking keel over!?”

Applejack glared at him, “Shoot, ah can do it on ma own. Ah gotta do ma own chores an not take tha easy way out and git somepony ta do it fer me.” she exclaimed.

Twilight sighed, “I feel like we're repeating something...”

Jason glared back at her, “I am not giving up. People on my world work horses to exhaustion, then some. Then, once they keel over, dead, they turn them into Adhesive.” He turned back to Applejack, “I am not having you keel over for something that doesn’t have to be your burden alone.” He said, no hint of a joke in his voice.

Twilight looked like she was going to throw up, but Applejack just glared harder, “Ah aint nothin like one ah yer horses. Ahm a farm pony, and this is ma job, and ah needa fix up ma job on ma own...” she fell asleep standing up in the middle of her sentence.

Jason pushed out his breath in anger, “For the love of god!” He roared, waking her back up as he picked her up and pointed her towards the other half, “You think you can do this alone? Before you just give out!?”

Twilight's eyes sparkled, and she smiled, “I remember now! Remember what you told me about letting others take care of situations before?”

Jason nodded, a grim look still on his face, “Exactly, when you’re at you bloody limit, which clearly you are, there is no fucking shame in asking for help. Hell, there is no shame in asking for help at all! You’re brother helped you before, right? Then why not let your friends help?”

Applejack sighed, “Ah dunno. Can ya put me down er something please?”

Jason laughed lightly, “Yes, that I can do.” He said as he gently placed her down.

“Thank ya.” Applejack looked at the over half of the orchard tiredly, “Ah suppos ah can admit ah do need a might bit ah help...” she sighed, looking over at Jason and Twilight, “Would ya please help me?”

Jason smiled, nodding, “All you had to do was ask.” He turned to Twilight, “Could you get everyone else? Imloch and Emily should be in the Tower.”

Twilight nodded, “Yes, and I finally have a friendship lesson to add to what you told me before to send to Celestia.” she smiled giddily and teleported away, a quill and scroll in her magic a split second before leaving.

Applejack blinked, shaking her head, “Ah dunno what she jus said, but ahm jus happy tha ahm gettin help.”

Jason sighed, “If only you were like that from the start…”

The harvest went extraordinarily well, with Applejack and her friends, plus the help of Jason, Emily and Imloch, the other half of the orchard was harvested in a record time of two days. Applejack was resting while everyone else worked, which everyone was happy to do, after all, she had tried to help some of her best friends, even when dead tired. She gave out juice boxes when she was awake, and by the end, Spike had found his way there, even though he was eating the baked bads that Pinkie Pie and Applejack had made, and sent Twilights letter.

Jason walked through the darkening town, a slight spring in his step. He approached the library, a slip of paper in his hand. “Twilight, are you ready for the movie?” He asked as he knocked on the door.

Twilight opened the door, her ticket in her magic, “I believe so. Lets get going to the theater.”

Jason smiled, unable to contain his excitement, “It’s been so long since I’ve seen Star Wars. I am so freaking excited!” He squealed.

Twilight chuckled, “Well, I can see that I must be in for a wonderfully made movie then.” she said, closing the library door and heading off in the direction of the theater.

Jason followed her, the spring enhancing with every step he took. He noticed she was watching him as he walked until they got to the theater. “Something you want to say?” He asked, stopping at the ticket guy and handing the stallion his ticket.

Twilight shrugged, “Nothing. Just interested in the mood change and your apparent excitement of the movie.” She said, getting her entrance ticket and heading to the theater room, finding a seat in the middle of the room.

Jason’s smile drooped a bit, “Yeah, I was pretty damned angry with her wasn’t I?” He sighed, “My anger is something that I do not take pride in…” He said, sitting down next to her.

Twilight sighed, “Well, the way you said it, it sounded like humans do a lot of horrible stuff to ponies in your world, so I suppose you had a right to be angry that a pony here would be doing something close to what they do...” she whispered.

Jason sighed, “Ponies weren’t treated that badly, but their larger counterparts, Horses, were. Some people treated them absolutely horrible, working them till death, then finding some horrible use for them after it. We’ve done horrible things to dogs, cats, fish, wolves, if it exists, humans have found some ways to fuck with it…” He muttered, as the movie started to come on, Twilight looking thoughtful.

Jason and Twilight exited the theater, Jason having an excited look on his face, “Did you see how Lute Skydancer blew up the death star!”

Twilight nodded, smiling, “Yes, it was actually a very enjoyable movie. I’m happy that I finally got to see it after it has been out so long.”

Jason nodded rapidly, “And there should be like five other movies, if they make the same ones as on my world!”

Twilight chuckled, “I am guessing this is the bubbly excitement that makes Emily mad at you?”

Jason smiled fondly, “It’s dimmed down from anger to slight annoyance. But she takes it.” He yawned, “Man, I’m beat, I should go back to the tower.” He gave Twilight a light hug, “G’night.” He muttered, stumbling towards the tower.

Twilight waved goodbye as she headed back to the library, “It was a nice movie. I think there should be more movie nights with my friends...” She said, thinking, going further away as she thought.

Chapter 6

Jason stood on the balcony, looking out over Ponyville. “This really is a beautiful town, isn’t it?” He said to no-one in particular. The mirror behind him made the teleporting noise, and Emily appeared on the balcony, looking really annoyed as she held Imloch. Jason smirked slightly, “What's going on guys?”

“I can’t throw him. Hes stuck to my hand.” Emily said, opening her hand and making a motion like she was dribbling a basketball, the staff not falling.

”I concur, this is really hexing.” Imloch said, obviously cross, ”Who would place a sticking charm on myself? And how would they do it without me noticing?”

Emily frowned, “You did it because I kept trying to leave the lesson.”

”Why would I do that!?” Imloch screamed, ”I want to teach you magic and this is counter productive-” He fell silent as he notice Jason shaking with silent laughter.

“What did you do?” Emily growled, “If you didn't notice, we are really high up, I have an unbreakable stick, and I can hit you off the balcony if you did this.”

Jason couldn’t take it anymore, he fell to the floor howling with laughter, “You didn’t think to run your hands under water did you?” He said between laughs. “I placed school glue on the staff to make you two stick together.”

Emily stared at him, “I'm hitting you off the balcony.” she said, holding the staff as she lifted her hand, walking closer to him.

“God, it was a practical joke.” He said, getting up, “It’s a regular adhesive, it dissolves in water. Seriously…”

Emily sighed, “He's the last person I would want to be stuck to to begin with. How did you even get it on him long enough for it not to harden and for him to not notice?” She asked, putting her arm down.

“I had help from a certain mint green unicorn who loves a good practical joke.” He said, going towards the mirror.

Emily tilted her head, “You met the unicorn that was being replaced? That must have been weird then, since you knew so much about her before actually meeting her...unless the thing lied to us of course...” she said.

“Nah, apparently smoke monsters take the memories of people they mimic. She really is dating Bon-Bon, the candy shoppe owner.” He said, “She really does play the lyre, and is a ameture archeologist.”

Emily shrugged, “Cool.” she went over to the mirror and looked at it, “Bathroom.” she commanded, teleporting away.

“Yeah,” Jason said, “Main hall.” The world disappeared, replaced with the main hall, which Jason left, only to bump into a furry, feathery being.

The being was a griffon, one that he had not seen visiting Ponyville before. Her neck and head were decorated with white feathers, the ones around her eyes and some feathers on top of her head a light purple color. Her front lion legs ended in eagle claws, while her back legs were normal feline legs. her tail ended in a small black pointed tuft of fur, and, like all griffons, she was the same height as him. She glared at him, “Watch it!”

Jason raised his hands in defense, “Easy friend, I meant no harm.” He looked her over slightly, “I see you’re new in town, have you tried some of the steaks from some of the restaurants in town?”

The griffon glared at him, “Are you seriously trying to have a conversation with me about dweeby restaurants?” she asked.

Jason chuckled, “Oh, you misunderstand me, these restaurants cater specially to gryphons, have you tried their filet mignon? It’s to die for.” He smiled, “I can buy you something, as an apology for bumping into you.”

The griffon rolled her eyes, “No thanks, I’m busy. I’m only here in this lame town to see an old friend.” Her wings extended to their full length and she beat them, rising into the air, and flying quickly over to Rainbows cloud home.

Jason frowned, “Lame? Dweeby? I mean, I don’t really like the pony restaurants here, but you don’t need to insult them…” He walked away, mumbling. As he wasn’t really paying any attention to his route, he ended up at Fluttershy’s house. “Wonder if she needs any help.” He asked himself, walking up to the door and knocking lightly, “Fluttershy? Need any help with anything?” He called softly.

“Um...” her quiet voice said from the other side of the door, “I don't really want you to do something you don't really want to do...”

“No, it’s fine, I got nothing else to do.” He reassured her.

“Well...” Fluttershy said, opening the door, “I do need help giving my skunk friends a bath...you can help since you want to.”

Jason blanched, “Ummm… anything else? Unless they don’t spray, but I guess they do…”

Fluttershy frowned, “I would never take something away from my animal friends that they need...that would be horrible and mean.” She sighed, “I might be having a small issue with Angel, so maybe if you could help him, I can help my friends so I don't get interrupted by him every few minutes...”

Jason sighed, “Sure, I’ll take care of him, what do you want me to do?”

“Just give him attention. Hes a sweet bunny, he doesn't need much.” Fluttershy said, walking to her bathroom.

“Sweet bunny my ass…” Jason muttered. He didn’t forget his first meeting with Angel, nor would he any time soon. The first time he met Angel, he had tried to cook him into soup. He was quite the little evil mastermind, getting the other animals to help him tie him up and place him in the pot. The burns still itched, and worse of all, Fluttershy didn’t even believe him when he tried to tell her what happened. He walked into the home, looking downwards into the eyes of evil. “Hello, Devil…” He snarled, for that bastard was no Angel, “We meet again.”

Angel glared up at him, stomping his overly large foot, pointing towards the door.

Jason grimaced, “She’s bathing the skunks…” Every animal in the house visibly cringed, even Angel, “Exactly, so this time, can we please not fight unceasingly? I really don’t want to get anymore burns than needed…”

Angel’s glare turned hard again, this time pointing towards the kitchen, as if to say, “Feed me!”

Jason raised an eyebrow, “You do realize I’ve never made or eaten a salad in my life, right?”

Angel continued to point, his eyes narrowing, which said, “Feed me or be turned into soup.”

Jason groaned, “What is it with you and soup? Seriously, I know it’s good… I’ll get you a carrot, and tell a story. And that’s all you're getting. I know a mage who can incinerate you at a whim.” Angel looked slightly horrified, but nodded hurriedly. “Good. Now give me a second, I got a tale for all of the animals here.” Jason walked into the kitchen as Angel gathered his friends.

Jason strode back into the room, glad to see the animals surrounding a chair, with two carrots in his hands. He passed one to Angel, who reached out at the second one, “After the story.” He said gently.

Sitting down gingerly in the seat, he was silent for a moment, “I’m going to tell a tale of my world.” He said to the assorted animals, “A cold harsh world, where it is literally a world of eat, or be eaten. Animals like bears, wolves, wildcats, and other big animals, killing other animals and eating them for survival.” This obviously disturbed some of the animals, but Jason wasn’t done yet, “That’s not the worst. The human race, my race, we survived by killing animals and taking their skins to protect from the cold, and eating their meat to sate their hunger. That was over two million years ago… Now it gets even worse. People hunt, but not just for survival, for sport, for enjoyment…” He sighed once more, “They mount their skins and heads on the wall and stuff them whole. You guys have it lucky. You have someone who looks out for you day and night People do that back on my world, but the hunters still overwhelmed the hunted. All I ask is that you lay off Fluttershy just a bit, I’m looking at you Angel.” He said, turning to the shaking bunny, “When Fluttershy needs a bit of space, or doesn’t have what you need to make your special salad, take the regular carrot, and leave her alone, or comfort her if she needs it. Got me?” He said kindly, to which Angel nodded, “Good boy.” He said, passing him the carrot, “Enjoy.” He said, as the door opened.

Fluttershy walked out of the bathroom, a small smile on her face as three, shiny little skunks walked out behind her, “You were such good little skunkies.” she smiled, and gave each of them a little treat.

“How did it go Fluttershy?” He asked.

She smiled, “Oh, they were so well behaved. Im sure if you had helped, you wouldn't have been in any danger.” She looked at the assembled animals, tilting her head, “What were you doing while I cleaned them?”

“Just… Story time.” He said with a smile, “Nothing more. Anything else you need help with?”

Fluttershy smiled again, “Thats nice, my animal friends always love stories.” she thought for a second, “Well...you did so well with them, perhaps you could watch them just a bit longer as I help a mother duck cross Ponyville? That is...unless of course you would also like to join me in helping my mother duck friend...” she said.

Jason smiled, “I would love to, and maybe afterwards I could get a pet of sorts?” He asked.

Her eyes glowed, “You would like a pet?” She asked, her voice a little louder then normal.

Jason nodded, “Yeah, something like a wolf would be cool. But after we help Misses Mother Duck.” He said.

Fluttershy nodded, “Alright. We better hurry though, I need to meet her soon.” she said, opening and flying out of her cottage door.

Jason smiled, shaking his head as he walked to the door, turning back to the animals one last time, “Remember guys, you got it easy.” He said as he followed Fluttershy.

Fluttershy was walking backwards as she talks to the mother duck and her ducklings, helping them go through Ponyville safely. Jason stood next to her, walking forwards to keep a clear line of traffic, when all of a sudden a mass of feathers and fur landed right in front of them. “Crap…” Jason muttered, recognizing the griffon from before as she bumped into Fluttershy.

She looked up at her, “Please excuse me-”

The griffon looked at her, “I'm walking here! Why don't you watch where you're going?!”

Fluttershy back up a little, “Sorry I just-”

“Im sorry, Im sorry. Ugh, whatever,. watch where you're going dofus!” she yelled, walking towards fluttershy, the ducks flapping away, before Fluttershy can say anything else, the griffon roars, sending her running away, tears going down her face.

Jason glared at the griffon, “OI, what the bloody hell was that for!?”

“She deserved it for not looking while walking.” the griffon growled.

“I was looking out for her, you freaking landed right in front of her, where she was doing her bloody job.” Jason growled back, getting an inch away from her face.

The griffon rolled her eyes, “Whatever, this market is lame.” She said, flapping her wings, sending a downdraft onto Jason as she flew away. Jason coughed from the dust generated from the downdraft. A certain pink pony who looked quite insane as she talked quietly to herself, hiding under a table while she watched Jason.

Jason sighed, turning to Pinkie, “You can come out now…” He muttered, turning back towards Fluttershy’s cottage.

Pinkie zoomed out from under the table racing next to Jason, “Didja see what she did?!” She asked him as he walked towards her cottage.

Jason nodded, an angered look on his face, “Yes. I was right next to the whole scene, remember?” He muttered, “That… bitch…”

Pinkie tilted her head, “She’s not a dog, she’s a cat silly.”

Jason face palmed, “No… It’s… never mind…” He muttered, highly annoyed. “We need to get to Flutters.” He said, beginning to run.

“Oki Doki Loki!” Pinkie quipped, racing with him. They raced through the town, drawing the attention and ire of some of the towns ponies.

When they reached Fluttershy’s cottage, they heard the soft sound of crying from within, “Fluttershy?” Jason quietly called through the door, “It’s Jason and Pinkie. Could you or one of your animals open the door?” The door opened, and Angel looked up at him, before going back to Fluttershy where a few other animals were comforting her. A huge pool of water on the floor in front of the couch from where she cried.

“Comeon Flutters…” He whispered, getting closer, “You can’t listen to that mean old griffon.” He said, kneeling next to her, before turning back to Pinkie, “Can you get everyone else, I think they’ll need to see this…” Pinkie nodded, racing out the door.

Fluttershy sniffled, taking a tissue from Angel, “I left the mother duck...”

Jason smiled, “I’m sure she would understand, with what happened, I’m sure she’ll let you help again…” He gave her a hug.

Fluttershy sniffled, hesitantly hugging him back, “Th-thank you. You said before about wanting a pet wolf? I don't really have a pet one, there all my friends, and they can't be domesticated. I could get you a puppy or a kitten instead, since...those are the only animals allowed as pets.”

Jason smiled, “Always thinking of your friends first, that would be nice, but right now we have bigger fish to fry. Do you know anything about this griffon? I saw her earlier flying over towards Rainbow Dash’s cloud, they might know each other.”

Fluttershy nodded, “That might be true. I don't really know anything about her though...” She nuzzled her animal friends as everyone but Angel got off the couch.

Jason gave Angel a look that clearly said, ‘Good Job.’

“Jason we’re here, what’s the big-Fluttershy?” Fluttershy and Jason heard Rainbow Dash’s voice say from the entrance, as she rushed towards them, “What happened!?”

“Know a female griffon, white, tan, with purple tinted feathers over her eyes?” Jason asked.

Rainbow nodded, “Yeah, that’s Gilda, she’s an old friend from flying camp, but what does she have to do with this?”

Jason looked towards Fluttershy, “Guess who made Fluttershy cry, for nothing more than bumping into her.”

“It-it really was a bit my fault. I was walking backwards and not looking...”

“It wasn’t your fault.” Jason said with finality, “I was looking out for you, and she literally landed right in front of you, and she bumped into you. She was in the wrong, not you.”

Rainbow frowned, “She isn't as cool as I thought she was then...” she seethed, opening her wings and bursting out of the cottage.

Jason blinked, “Why do I get the feeling that I just released the Element of Loyalty’s wrath on her?”

“Cause ya jus did sugarcube.” Applejack said from the doorway, the others having just gotten there with Pinkie.

“As much as I think that griffon needs a lesson, I don’t want to see her torn apart, so can Twilight and I go after her, makes sure she doesn’t do anything to o rash?” Jason asked, turning to Twilight. Before she could answer, Rainbow Dash and Gilda crashed onto the porch, Rainbow holding onto her ear, Gilda looking like shes in pain from just that.

“I know every spot on your body that is sensitive.” Rainbow said.

“Hello again.” Jason said, turning to the Griffon. “I don’t think we’ve been properly introduced. I’m Jason.” He held out his hand, but his eyes held a white hot rage.

Rainbow looked at him, “Shes Gilda. She used to be cool, now she is lame, and thinks my new friends are replacing her or something dumb like that.”

“Pinkies been following me all day...” Gilda muttered.

“Because she wanted to hang out with her friend, that kind of happens when you save the world together.” Jason gestured towards the assembled mares, “I’m guessing you know the Elements of Harmony? Meet all six.” He sighed, sitting down next to Fluttershy, “Rainbow, can you let her go? If she runs, you can bring her back, alright?”

Rainbow looked at Jason, and back at Gilda, she frowned and let her go, “Fine...” she muttered.

Gilda shrugged, scratching her ear lightly and shaking her head, “I know nothing about these elements. I don't get any newspapers and whatever.”

“Well, long story short, Nightmare Moon came back, and these six saved the entire world from her bringing back eternal night.” Jason sighed again, “Know what Element Rainbow is?” He asked her, “Loyalty. She would never go back on her friends, old or new, unless said friend gave them a damned good reason to.”

“Good for her, for them. They got everything they need then. Lame ponies with nothing they need to ask for...” Gilda muttered.

Jason stared at her intently, “What happened?” He asked softly, “Someone only acts like this if they lost everything.”

Gilda roared at him, and jumped at him, pushing him against the wall, “Don't give me pity you shaved diamond dog!” She threw her wings open to stop the others from stopping her.

Jason stared at her, “Pity? I prefer to call it experience. I lost my entire fucking world, brought here by some old magic.” He said, getting slightly angry, “Oh, and I’m a Human, don’t confuse me for those bumbling diamond hunting slavers!” He yelled, slamming her with all his weight and pushing her to the ground.

Twilight's horn glowed and held Gilda up in the air, “How do you know about them? You were never told as far as I know...”

Jason shrugged, “I like to read, call me insane, but I thought learning about the planet I was trapped on was a good Idea.” He turned back to Gilda, “Now, can we talk without violence?”

Gilda growled, unable to move inside Twilight's magic field, “Ya know what? Fine. I came here to this lame town to live with my friend for awhile till I could get some cash and live on my own, alright?”

Jason didn’t smile, “That’s not entirely it, is it?” He said, “Griffons don’t leave their homes or a nest unless something really bad happens. I want to freaking help you, why won’t you let anyone?”

“I don't need any help. I thought I could just crash with Rainbow, but now I guess that can't happen now.” she said.

Rainbow sighed, “I would have let you, if you hadn't been so rude to my friends, Gilda.”

“I have a place you can crash.” Jason said, “I don’t see Emily or Imloch being that upset about it, and even If they are, tough. I’m not one to let anyone out in the cold.”

Gilda looked at Jason, “Thanks, but I’d rather not live with anypony else. I can go and make my own cloud home someplace.” She rolled her eyes.

Jason went silent for a moment, before speaking to Twilight, “Let her go.” He told her, “Just remember, My home is open whenever you need it. Just look for the giant stone tower. We’re having Filet Mignon.” Jason said, without waiting for a response, walking out the door.

Gilda rolled her eyes as she was put down on the floor, “Yeah, whatever. ill look for the eye sore if I decide its worth my time. See ya.” she opened her wings and left everyone in the dust, flying out of Ponyville.

Jason stood at the top of the tower, looking over the town in this late hour. “I really wish she would have listened…” He muttered, shivering as a breeze hit him.

Emily teleported in through the mirror, “Hay. Magic training sucks. How has your day been?”

Jason didn’t turn around, “A griffon tackled me against a wall.”

Emily laughed, “Better then my day then.” she said, going over to the ledge with him, “Its a beautiful place honestly… but I miss home more than anything.”

Jason sighed, “Gilda, that was the name of the griffon, she lost her home as well, didn’t tell me why… I tried to help her, I really did, but she didn’t want to be helped…” He sighed again, before turning back to the mirror, “Tell Imloch I’m getting a dog.” He said, before teleporting to his room, leaving Emily to stare.

Jason flashed into his room, instantly noticing that It was darker than usual, “Who’s there, show yourself!”

A buggy laugh that seemed to echo sent shivers down his spine, “Oh, you're a brave thing aren't you?” A female voice asked.

Jason smirked, “I don’t like to think so, It’s just a matter of outwardly showing that fear. Fear makes you slow, which makes you sloppy.” His smirk morphed into a frown, “I won’t ask again, show yourself!”

The laugh echoed from a dark corner, as a black pony with a green holed mane and holes throughout her body came out from the dark, close enough for him to see her in the small bit of light he had. She had insect wings, and a small black crown in front of a jagged horn. She was as tall as the princesses, “Does this satisfy the need of seeing, creature?”

“Human, I am a human, and my name is Jason, and I would prefer to talk in full light, like civilized beings, if you don’t mind your highness.”

The creature smirked, “So you already know I am a Queen. How wonderful, since I will soon be your queen as well. I always do love bringing in my new subjects.”

Jason sighed, “And I know that Changeling’s love love, but you didn’t answer my question, may I please turn on a light?”

The queen laughed, “Of course. drones, lights on, and say hello.” The lights came on, and Jason was surrounded by ten changelings smaller than the queen.

Jason looked around at them, before raising his hands in surrender, “I’m guessing your either here to kill me, or capture me for some tests am I right?”

“Both of those are incorrect. You see, Changelings are made two ways. Through an egg, or through a crystalis. With a crystalis, all you need to do, is trap a pony, or in your case...human, and they will turn into my lovely army.” The queen smiled, and looked at her drones lovingly, “I noticed you running around with your friend, I thought it would be a good opportunity to see if my crystalis can make a creature like you into a Changeling, and then I can move on to diamond dogs, and many more creatures!”

“And create an Army of Changelings, ready to take over the world, classic villain, but somethings different…” he muttered, “These drones with you aren’t the regular Changeling drones, are they? Their Carapace is a slightly different color, and their horns and wings are bigger, a New Evolution perhaps, an Evo-Ling, if you will.”

The queen frowned, “As much as I would like that, no. These drones are beta drones, the drones, you seem to refer to are the ones that I send off as mindless puppets.” she laughed, “Oh, some ponies, thinking that every changeling under me is just a mindless slave to me. No, these ones I like.”

Jason frowned, “I see I don’t have much choice in this matter, do I? If I am forced to come with you, I have a couple… requests.”

The queen laughed, “Oh, you assume you get requests. How cute. Send him to sleep so we can properly fix him.” she commanded, looking at the changelings.

Jason raised his hands, “Wait, wait, wait, wait!” He said rapidly, “It’s not something that would harm you. All I wish, is that If I was going to become a changeling, It would be a changeling of my own design, you can do that, change the crystalis so that it makes anyone changed into a stronger breed of Changeling? Wouldn’t that be helpful to you?”

The queen glared at him, “How dare you even think that my chrysalis isn't good enough to make you anywhere close to an alpha. I don't want you as an alpha, I want you as a mindless slave, loyal to me. Why would I wish for you to have free will? Get him, now.” The changelings jumped on him and their horns glowed, sending him into a slumber. The queen laughed, “Like I would give anything special privilege just because he asked nicely.” She growled, and looked at her changelings, “Away with us now, to the converting chambers.” Her horn glowed, and she teleported away, as the door opened.

Emily looked in, a second too late as she saw a flash, “Hello...” She saw Jason’s black hoodie, which he never left anywhere without, on the floor. “Where the hell did he go be a jackass off to?” she wondered, looking around the room. She picked up the jacket and looked around, seeing something oil and green on the floor. She picked it up, and it felt like really unwashed rubbery hair. “The fuck...”

Get Twilight… Almost as if he was next to her, Jason’s voice rang out in her mind, She would know… Emily blinked, and slowly exited the room, deciding to talk to Twilight later when it was morning. Even the slightest hesitation could mean life and death...Again, his voice was right next to her.

“Oh fuck I'm crazy again...” Emily muttered, going through the mirror, heading for the library.

Chapter 7

Twilight stared at Emily, half asleep, “Could you...say that again please?” She asked.

Emily sighed, wishing she had waited for the morning now, “For some reason I remembered Jason telling me something before, and he wanted to show you this.” She took the hair she had picked up from the floor and gave it to Twilight.

Twilight held it in her magic, studying the hair carefully as she yawned slightly. She sighed, “This mane looks odd, but I have honestly never seen anything like it in anything I have read. If he was stolen by something though, I can find a tracing spell that can trace back to the owner of this mane.”

Emily smiled, “Cool, whatever that means, do it.” she said.

Twilight shook her head, “I would have to find the spell for it, and it would take awhile to learn. Im sure that he can survive a night on his own. He is very good at surviving from what I have seen.”

Emily sighed, “Of course...this is why I have barely learned a spell, plus I don't want to...” she looked down at Twilight, “Alright, I guess Ill try and help you with that spell tomorrow.” she said, hesitantly leaving the library to go to bed herself.

Jason growled at the drone who had slammed him in the back of his head. “Do that one more fucking time… I bloody dare you.” He muttered, low enough that no one could hear him.

Queen Chrysalis, as Jason had learned was her name, smirked, watching, “You are very annoying when your awake. I had thought the sleeping spell would hold you until we got you in. Oh well, it isn't that hard to put a struggling victim into the chrysalis anyway...” she looked over at one of the smaller, drones she had in the hive, who was watching her, waiting for her command, “I will so much enjoy you becoming as loyal as these ones.” she smiled.

“Fat fucking chance, and while we’re on the subject, you might want to watch the love.” He said with a smirk.

Chrysalis glared at him, “And what love exactly are you talking about?”

Jason sighed, “It takes the fun out of the insults if you have to explain them…” He said, “I’m calling you fat, without saying it directly… He muttered.

She rolled her eyes, “Oh lovely, and I thought the comedian pony was annoying...” she sighed.

Jason glared up at her, “For the last fucking time bitch, I am a human! I am not, nor will ever be, your slave.” He growled.

She smirked, “Well just see.” she looked at a Beta, “Lets see how far down you can make the chrysalis go on Omega. Put him in.” She commanded.

Jason’s face morphed into a snarl as he was pushed towards the open chrysalis, “Just watch as your conversion goes wrong, I’m gonna love the look on your face as I stick it on a pike.”

“Violent aren't we?” The queen asked, as the Changelings stuffed him into the large green chrysalis and it closed itself around him. She looked at him through the murky green material, and smirked, “I'll see you in a few hours.” She said, leaving the converting chamber with her changelings, Jason stuck in the chrysalis as it did its job.

Jason gritted his teeth, the pain that he was receiving was incredible. “Fuck…” He muttered, dropping his bravado act, “So, this is my fate? A slave drone, fated to follow orders forever?” He sighed, “Twi… Applejack… Pinkie, Flutters, Rainbow, Rarity…” He fell silent, doing his best to ignore the pain in his chest, “Imloch… Emily…” Emily’s face flashed across his mind, over and over. “No…” He muttered, as the conversion started tickling at his mind, everything else finally finished. “NO!” He yelled, punching the chrysalis as hard as he could in a last ditch effort, barely making a dent. He kept trying, no longer able to actually feel the tickling in his brain, until he was tired from hitting it and sat back, panting.

He looked around, a bit confused. The chrysalis was starting to get cold and dry, and he still had his own thoughts. He had assumed it would have taken more then three minutes to his mind and body to change, but his mind was still fine. The chrysalis cracked and shattered, dumping him on the floor of the cave as it fell, leaving him with his mind still intact. He smiled, before the door to the room opened and Queen Chrysalis walked in.

She looked him over. Her chrysalis had done as it was supposed to, even making it seem like little time had passed for its victim as it was changed, making it think it was being changed immediately instead of slowly to make it even more scared for its life before it broke itself apart so that it could crawl out as its new self. She took notice that the wings on his back were sadly unusable, and the horn was too small for any sort of magic, but she honestly wasn't going to need him to fly or use magic at any point.

She walked a bit closer, and ate the leftover emotion he had left in the air when she left, “Hmmm… you were quite an angry little monster weren't you? All thats left is attaching you to the hivemind and begin your work.”

“Angry? Yes, and still feeling the rush.” Jason snarled, “Being directed towards you.”

She looked surprised, “Hmmm...a small error then. I should have guessed other creatures didn't have the same brain waves as a pony. Aw well, you were just a test animal.” Her horn glowed, and lifted him in the air, throwing him against the wall.

Jason snarled, “You forget one major detail, the conversion worked ¾ of the way, I got most of the conversion, but I have my mind, which gives you one stinking problem.” he said, getting up, “I can fight!” He roared, charging at Chrysalis.

Chrysalis opened her wings and flew into the air, chuckling as Jason ran into the wall, “You are still useless, you don't have magic, and you don't have flight. You don't deserve to fight me.” she said, as thousands of Changelings ran into the chamber.

Jason’s eyes glinted, “Let’s see how my new carapace and strength does.” He said, slamming his foot into the right eye socket of a Changeling, its shrill scream echoing inside the room as it writhed from the pain, roundhousing another, breaking it’s horn. “At least make it a challenge for me!” He yelled, grabbing the broken horn and using it as a knife, stabbing another Changeling in it’s eye, green blood pouring out.

Chrysalis sighed, “Oh, how the least qualified fighters of my hive always appear first. Its always a shame.” bigger, stronger looking changelings walked over the few changelings that were hurt, and attacked Jason, using their magic and flight against him as they bit and attacked him while Chrysalis took her leave and exited the room.

Jason snarled, “Do you really think It’ll be that easy?” He charged at one of them, his whole body subconsciously changing into the same color stone as the floor, becoming the stone as he tackled one of the bigger Changelings to the ground as he smashed it’s face in, reveling in the sound of the bones breaking, the blood oozing around his stony fingers. “Alright, who's next?” He taunted, throwing the knife down.

The smaller changelings ran at him without thinking, while the bigger higher ranked ones took to strategy, changing into his friends.

“That won’t work bitches…” Jason smirked, “I’m one of you now, I can tell when a Ling is real or not.” He smiled, smashing one of the ones disguised as Applejack in the side, the disguise faltering and cracking the carapace before picking it up and throwing it into ‘Fluttershy’, who’s disguise also faltered.

The other changelings dropped their disguises and hissed at him, flying up into the air in a huge swarm, diving down at him, their horns down as they aimed for his chest.

Jason groaned, “Too much for stone… but maybe…” He placed his arms in front of him, and closed his eyes, hoping, before he heard the cracking and crunching of changeling bones hitting against something. He opened his eyes and smiled, seeing that he had made a huge shield out of stone to protect himself with. Once he didn't hear the changelings hitting against the shield anymore, he lowered it, looking around at the broken bodies of the Changelings, “Hey, Chrysalis! Come out and fight!” He yelled after taking out the last few changelings smart enough to stop before ramming into his shield.

At a later...see you again... He heard her voice in his mind, sounding like it was in a faulty aircraft walkie talkie as she talking in fragmented sentences.

“She got away… He muttered, throwing down the last ling corpse, “God damn it.” He sighed, “I gotta get outa here…” He muttered, looking down at himself and noticing he still had his white tee-shirt and blue jeans, if a bit tattered. “At least they didn’t take that from me…” He smiled wryly, “Guess it’s time to Hulk out and smash this pop-stand.” He said, placing his hand on the remnants of the crystalis, his skin morphing into the same murky green color as his former prison, “This is so cool, HULK SMASH!” He roared, charging towards the wall, smashing it despite the open door, to excited and full of unused energy to care about it.

Jason found himself surrounded by a craggy wasteland, completely devoid of all life save for the Changeling fortress. “Well, now that that’s taken care of,” He said, the murky green crystalline skin fading, “I should probably start moving.” He began walking away from the wasteland, trying to find someway to get home.

Jason stoked the fire, trying to stay warm. The smoke circling around in the ceiling of the cave before drifting outside, which was covered by small bushes. Earlier in the day, he had found a pool of water, which gave him a good look at his new appearance. After he calmed down, he got a drink and settled into a nearby cave, gathering some sticks and weeds to build his fire. “That just happened, didn’t it?” He muttered, poking the fire with the stray stick he found dejectedly, “I just killed over one thousand beings, and freaking enjoyed it…” He sighed, the adrenalin long gone from his system, and now he was in a guilt ridden depression. “I should have found a more peaceful way to do it…” He muttered, before scoffing, “What peaceful way? They were being controlled, and the ones that weren’t, were probably too freaking scared of the queen to do anything else…” He sighed, “Guess there is nothing left to do but sleep off my freaking guilt.” He sighed, laying down.

The sound of a bush at the left of the cave entrance caught his attention, making him sit up, “Hello? Who’s there?” He didn't get an answer, as the bush calmed down again. “Hello?” He said again, getting up fully and walking towards the bush, eyes widening in shock as he saw who was there.

Gilda lay there, skinny and frail looking from dehydration, completely unconscious. Her feathers had been coming out, and her fur was faded in places, skin showing in some patches. “Oh fuck…” he whispered, before picking her up and bringing her inside the cave.

Twilight was fully ready to use a tracking spell when she woke up to help Emily find Jason, and her friends were already beginning to search for him when she got a letter from Celestia. She sighed, and went to find Emily, who was almost out of town with Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash, Imloch in hand. “Were going to have to look for him a bit later...”

“What do you mean later?!” Rainbow said, “Jason needs our help!”

“Yeah, the fuck is so important that it requires a search party being postponed.” Emily said.

Twilight frowned, looking at Rainbow and Pinkie, “Theres a dragon.” she said.

Pinkie gave her usual extremely loud gasp, while Rainbow gaped, “Dragon!?” She yelled, “Where!?”

”I would think the mountain literally oozing smoke.” Imloch said dryly, as residual smoke that floated down from the air made them cough. ”I guess Celestia needs you to handle him?”

“Yes, we need to get him to leave or Equestria will be in smoke for many years. Rainbow, can you get Fluttershy, Applejack, and Rarity?” Twilight asked.

”Can you at least cast the spell so that Emily and I know where to go?” Imloch asked as Rainbow nodded, dashing off.

Twilight nodded quickly, “Oh, right of course, yes. I was able to extract a small piece of Jasons DNA off of the hair sample Emily gave me so that I could make the spell track him down easier. It took all morning, but it was worth doing, only problem is I didn’t cast it yet.” her horn glowed, and her magic hits Emilys forehead and the purple orb in the staff, sending the tracking signal into their minds. “I need to get ready now, come on Pinkie!” she exclaimed, running back to her library.

”The Badlands…” Imloch said, astonished, ”How the fuck did he manage to get himself over 200,000,000 miles to the south!?”

Emily frowned, “I don't know, but we need to get there, in maybe less then three days preferably.”

”Impossible, Even with the fastest air ship, it would take a couple of weeks, at the very least. It would be more realistically more about two months.” Imloch responded, ”And there are no ways by airship or train to the Badlands, it’s the home of Dragons and Changelings.”

Emily rolled her eyes, “Oh, you're just being an ass. I know you can use magic by yourself without me using it, just teleport us and don't try making me do it!” she exclaimed.

”No one could Teleport that distance!” Imloch exclaimed, ”Teleporting takes as much mental energy as to run the entire distance without stop, so no, I can’t teleport us there.” He said. ”It would be suicide to try that, so don’t even risk it.”

Emily groaned, “Magic is so full of law and science it isn't even magic, why is it so straight...” She muttered.

”We should probably pack for a long journey,” Imloch said, pulling slightly towards the tower, ”I have a bag of holding or two that might help.”

Emily sighed, “Fine.” she said, heading towards the tower.

Gilda groaned, able to instantly feel her immense hunger the minute she woke up. She slowly opened her eyes, looking around the cave, wondering how she had gotten into one in the first place. Last thing she remembered, she had fallen out of the sky, her wings no longer able to hold her and she crashed into something green before she had gotten knocked out from the impact. She rolled over, and shakily got to her paws, feeling dizzy as she fell back onto her side, hissing from her bones hitting the stone of the cave floor.

“I would be careful if I was you.” Came a voice from the shadowy area of the cave, “You were extremely malnourished, not to mention dehydrated to hell.” The voice was silent for a moment, “I got some water and cooked some rabbits.”

Gilda frowned, “I know that voice...” She said, slowly sitting up, trying to ignore the pain in her side, “Why are you hiding, did you get run out or something?”

Jason chuckled, “So you remember my voice, no, I didn’t get run out, the truth is much, much worse.” He sighed, “How did you get here? You only left Ponyville like a day ago, and you're over 200,000,000 miles south? Care to explain?”

Gilda chuckled, “I wasn't in the same flight camp with Rainbow as my partner for nothin. I can fly a long time if I want to...”

Jason chuckled, “You have the speed to go the distance, along with the stamina? Color me impressed.” He went silent, “Please, eat, I don’t want to see you die. Seen enough of that today…” He muttered.

Gilda’s stomach growled before she could say anything, and she groaned, “Where did you put it?”

“Right next to you.” Jason said, “Seriously, it’s right there, how the hell did you miss that?”

Gilda looked down, noticing the cooked rabbit beside her. She shook her head, “Maybe its because dehydration makes it hard to see.” her sarcastic remark was quiet and she didn't sound angry like she had before, her hunger winning over as she ate the rabbit like a feral dog.

“Sorry…” Jason muttered, “Didn’t mean to seem rude…” He sighed once more, “I’m gonna come out of the shadows, I would just like you not to scream… Can you do that?”

Gilda didn't answer until the rabbit was nothing but a few bones, she sat back and sighed, feeling a little better now that she had gotten something to eat, “I'm too tired to freak out about your weird humanness...” She muttered.

“That would be good, but…” He trailed off as he stepped into the firelight, his skin had turned to dark grey, and his hair had changed from mid-length and extremely messy, to a short mohawk, and from very dirty blond to pure black. His eyes, once a hazel blue color, was now a bright green, “As you can see, I’m not very Human anymore.”

Gilda stared at him, and backed up, falling in her haste to get away from him, “S-stay away.”

Jason sighed, sitting down, “This is what happens when a Changeling Queen wants to see if she can change other species besides Equines into Changelings…” He said sadly, his green eyes turning blue, “I was…” He trailed off, slapping his leg slightly, “Test subject number one, but the Queen made a fatal mistake, she forgot to realize that other species brains are different. Part of my mind was changed, but I’m still me, albit a bit different.”

Gilda sat up, a few feet from where she had been before due to her slipping, “Lucky you...” she said, looking at him, “So...no control or need to suck me of emotion like an emotional vampire bug?”

Jason shook his head, “No, Chrysalis has no control over me, nor do I have the hunger for emotions, but I can sense them…” He said, turning to the griffon, “You are scared, that is most evident, but I also sense some sadness, and more than a generous dollop of anger.” He sighed, “And I don’t think normal Changelings can do this…” He said, picking up a stone from the cave floor, his hand down to his wrist turning the same color and texture as the stone, “Feel it.” He said, holding out his arm to Gilda, “It literally is stone.”

“I...would rather not.” Gilda said.

Jason sighed, “Don’t blame you.” He said, dropping the stone, his hand changing back to normal, “I can do other, things, as well…” He raised his other hand, which morphed into a perfect sphere, “Made a shield before, 1,000 Changelings smashed into it and died instantly…” He sighed again, “Don’t want anymore killing today…”

Gilda stared at him, “Yeah...I don't much want that either. I suppose I’m lucky you're here then...” she sighed.

Jason’s hand turned back into a hand, “Lucky? Why do you say that?” He asked, genuinely confused as his eyes turned a cloudy silver.

Gilda shrugged, “I fell out of the sky because I couldn’t fly anymore and crashed into the bush. I think I would have died there.” She said.

Jason looked away, “Maybe… But I still remember offering you a place to stay, and that offer is still open, if we ever get out of this god-forsaken hellhole.” He sighed.

Gilda rubbed the back of her neck, “Maybe if it was in a different town, and wasn't a huge ugly castle...I might accept the offer.”

Jason sighed, “Well, I have 200,000,000 miles to change your mind.” He said, scratching his back, “Can you slice open the back of my shirt? My wings are killing me underneath it…” He groaned.

Gilda sighed, and sat up, swaying a bit as she went over behind him. She lifted her claws and swiped it down, tearing the back of the shirt to shreds.

Jason sighed, “A bit too much…” He muttered, taking off his shirt completely, “But it’ll do.” He stretched his back, showing his six pack and chiseled body.

Gilda chuckled, “I see the changelings gave ya a gift nerd.” she said.

Jason looked down, seeing his new muscular body, “Huh. Would you look at that?” He said, surprised, “Wow.”

Gilda looked at his back, “Nice fly wings, couldn’t even go an inch off the ground with those sad excuse for wings.”

Jason sighed, “Yeah…” He muttered, fluttering them, “For someone who has never had them before, they feel really weird…” He muttered, before looking up at his horn, “I can’t do anything with this useless thing either…” He scowled.

Gilda shrugged, “Eh, you don't really need it anyway, your scary just looking at you.” She walked back in front of him, and picked up a rabbit bone.

Jason glared at her, his eyes turning red, “Thanks…” He muttered, looking away, “I’m gonna go to sleep…” He muttered, going back into the shadows.

Gilda watched him, and looked out of the cave, “Where'd ya find a rabbit in the desert anywhere?”

Jason turned to her, “It’s surprising how easy it is when you can sense the emotions of them.” He said, a slight smirk on his face, before turning back over.

“I guess thats helpful when you're hungry.” Gilda said. Jason didn’t respond, as his chest slowly rose and fell, he clearly fell asleep. She shrugged, and curled up on the floor, taking a better nap then she had when she crashed.

”This seems to be a good place to stop for the night.” Imloch said, looking around the small cave, “Not too big, as to attract a Ursa or something, but not too small as to be unlivable.” He turned to Emily, “What do you think?”

Emily looked around, “Ehhh...”

Imloch frowned, “It’s either we sleep in the cave, or we sleep in the elements.” He said.

“I went camping once. Theres trees here...” Emily said.

“We’re sleeping in the cave.” Imloch said, “No questions.”

Emily sighed, “Fine.”

Imloch nodded, “Thank you.” He said, placing his pack of holding on the ground, before pulling out his tent, which just fit inside the cave roof, “Thank god that fit.” Imloch said, opening it up, and walking inside.

“Why couldn't we have the tent outside, we wouldn't be in the elements, with a tent!” Emily exclaimed.

Imloch sighed, pushing his head outside the tent, “Just get in here, It’s bigger on the inside.” He pulled his head back in, not bothering to seal the door.

Emily sighed, and crouched down, walking into the tent with him.

The tent had a bathroom, a kitchen, a Living room, and a bedroom, each with electricity, running water, and indoor plumbing. “Welcome to The Tent.” Imloch said.

Emily looked around, “This is shit camping.”

Imloch looked offended, “This is living.” He said, “We should head to bed, we need to get a early start this morning.” He turned back into a staff, ”Can you place me on the pedestal?” He asked Emily.

Emily picked him up, “Maybe if I knew where it was in this tent of fake camping trip.”

”It’s next to the bed.” Imloch sighed. Emily walked over to the bed and put him down on the pedestal, before she got into the bed and went to sleep, not bothering to change.

Jason opened his eyes, expecting to see the roof of the cave, but instead met with a very familiar place, one that he hadn’t seen in a very long time. He was sitting at the desk where he first met Emily, and his eyes turned cloudy silver, “Is this a dream?” He asked the room.

The room didn't respond, and instead the seat opposite him became occupied, by a very confused looking Emily. She looked around the room, “Am I reliving my life or something?” She muttered, not noticing Jason yet.

“Not unless I was a Evo-Ling my entire life and I didn’t know about it.” Jason said, drawing her attention. Emily stared at him, before she stood up from her chair and lifted her hands, electricity bouncing off one while the other had fire.

“Whoa!” Jason said, using his miniscule wings to propel himself backwards, avoiding the dual fire/lightning blast. “What the hell Em!?” He yelled, bringing up a shield to block another attack.

“Fuck you fucking Nightmare monster shit!” Emily yelled, shooting acid at the shield, before she cast a flare spell at him.

“I’m not a nightmare monster!” He roared, his eyes turning bright red as he touched one of the pure metal desks, his entire body turning to metal as he dropped the shield. “Do not mess with me Emily Tucker!”

Emily growled, “My friend doesn’t look like that.” She said, throwing acid at him from her hands.

Jason growled, dodging, “Courtesy of Queen of Changelings.” He said, sighing as his body turned back to normal, his eyes becoming a deep blue, “I would hope my best friend would recognize me…” He said sadly, sitting down at one of the desks.

Her hands set themselves on fire as she watched him closely, “I would think my friend wouldn’t attack or threaten me.”

Jason looked at her, “I never threatened you, I just tried to get you to not kill me, and I would never hurt you.” He muttered, “You’re my best friend.” He sighed, “We met in this freaking hall, right over at that table that we spawned in here.”

“Nightmare monsters mimic and keep the memory of the person they imitate, how am I supposed to believe you?” Emily asked.

“Because I am part Evo-Ling, as I said before,” Jason said, standing up slowly, “I was captured remember? The Queen of Changelings saw me running around with Fluttershy, and decided to use me as a test subject to see whether she could convert other species besides Equines.”

Emily frowned, “And by Evo-ling, I’m guessing your saying she was trying to make a forcible evolved changeling, and you're making it sound really dumb with the shortened word.” she guessed, her hands extinguishing themselves.

Jason smiled sadly, “Don’t I always? It’s only been a single day, but I missed you Em…” He said, before his eyes became dark, “I became a killer today…” He muttered, turning around.

“Oh hell.” Emily said, “Please don't specify anything to me. I really don't want to know about that stuff.”

“All I’ll say is that Chrysalis is going to need a new hive.” He said, sitting down at the desk, “Can we talk?” He asked.

“Are we not somehow doing that right now?” Emily asked, calming down enough to look at him, “The fuck happened to your shirt and hair anyway?”

To her surprise, Jason snorted with laughter, “Remember that griffon from Ponyville yesterday?”

“I was busy learning the spells I was using to try and kill you.” Emily said bluntly.

“Ah. It was a very good job, nice combat spells.” Jason admitted, “Well, while you were doing that, a griffon came to town and acted like a bitch, made Fluttershy cry, and Twilight and her friends brought her to me, where I attempted to talk her down, to no avail.” He sighed, “I have about 100,000,000 miles, if we meet in the middle, to try and make her nicer.” He said.

Emily shrugged, sitting down in a chair, “Imloch has me in a faker tent.”

Jason smirked again, “Is it bigger on the inside?” He asked.

“Fuck you Jason.” Emily said, smiling, “Its a whole house, it isn't even real camping.”

“Good to see you too Em,” He said, reaching across the table for a fist bump, “See you in 100,000,000 miles?” He asked.

Emily returned it, “I guess so.” she said.

Jason smiled, before feeling strange, “I think I’m about to wake up…” He said, looking at Emily again.

“That or a man period.” Emily said, laughing.

Jason smiled back, “Or that.” He laughed, as the feeling hit a peak, “See you later.” He smiled one last time as he closed his eyes.

Emily waved goodbye as her dreams returned to normal.

When Jason woke up, Gilda was already awake, looking outside the cave entrance. “Good morning.” Jason said, yawning loudly.

Gilda looked over at him, and frowned, “Morning to you too vampire.” She said.

Jason paused mid-yawn, feeling his canines, which were extended, “Huh.” He said, poking them, “That’s new.” He said.

Gilda shrugged, “I guess Changeling fangs grow.”

“Guess so, maybe that’ll mean I can fly and use Magic eventually. That would be cool.” He smiled, before getting up.

Gilda sighed, “Pony wings and horns grow to be usable, as well as griffons, so I guess so.” she said.

“It would be really cool to fly.” He said, “What’s it like?”

Gilda smiled, “It feels amazing. You feel so alive, the wind going through your fur and your feathers, as you just glide through the air, everything smaller under you . Sometimes getting and updraft and it helping you fly faster. There isn't anything like flying to have fun.”

Jason nodded, before his stomach grumbled loudly, “I forgot I didn’t have dinner last night,” He said sheepishly.

“I'm not feeding you.” Gilda said.

“No, I can just go hunting.” Jason said, turning his right hand into a spear like weapon, “This should do for hunting rabbits.” He said, “Once we get farther north we might find some deer, or maybe a cow.” He licked his lips, “What I wouldn’t give for a nice juicy steak.”

Gilda sighed, “Nah, cows this far into Equestria, they talk. They're not dumb like in Griffelona. I’d basically be murdering somebody.”

Jason’s eyes glinted, “But we’re not in Equestria, are we? This is the Badlands, home of the Dragons and Changelings, and maybe we could find a nice steak.”

Gilda shrugged, “Close enough to Equestria, that if a cow is here, then shes from Equestria.”

Jason sighed, “Ah well…” He muttered, “You can have any fish we get, I don’t like fish.” He said, walking outside the cave and beginning to search around.

Gilda sighed, coming out slowly after him, “I'm not really the best condition still, think we could like, go slow and whatever?”

Jason looked back, ‘You could get on my back. I am strong enough.” He said, turning his arm into a drill and drilling down, before spearing some rabbits. “These good enough? Or should I get some more?”

Gilda looked at them, and shrugged, “You got the whole family, a bit of a low blow to drill a few bunnies to death, but that looks good enough.”

Jason looked at the rabbits, before paling upon realizing what he did, “Oh…” He muttered, holding his stomach.

Gilda shrugged again, “I usually do it painlessly, but your getting used to...whatever it is your able to do. Try something less deadly or whatever later.”

“Yeah… Guess so…” He muttered, before turning back into the cave, “Wanna have em rare, medium or well done?” He asked.

“Medium well.” Gilda said.

Jason nodded, and fell silent as he cooked the rabbits. As he cooked, he kept looking over at Gilda, “Fur doesn’t fall out when you're hungry, does it?” he asked her, passing her a medium well rabbit.

Gilda shook her head, “Thats a dumb thing if it were to happen.” She said, starting to eat, slowly now.

Jason turned his right hand into a thin pointed rod, before sticking his rabbit on it, “Then how did you lose those patches of fur?”

Gilda shrugged, “Dunno, maybe the bush.”

Jason shrugged, “Maybe,” He said, “My friends are looking for us.” He said before taking a bite of his rabbit.

“There looking for you.” Gilda said.

“No, not the Elements,” Jason said, “My friend Emily and her mentor Imloch, both Humans, well, Imloch is kind of a soul in a staff, but he can take a human form as well, so…” Jason shrugged, taking another bite.

“Odd human nonsense.” Gilda said, eating off half the rabbit.

“I’ve seen it happen,” Jason said, “Imloch is a 7000 year old mage who stuck his soul in a staff, and Emily is his many times great granddaughter, who is learning magic.” He explained, placing the bones of the rabbit next to him and changing the rod back into his hand.

“Still weird.”

Jason snorted, “Tell me about it.” He said, “Anyways, I had a dream last night, and it was a telepathic link I would guess, might be right, probably am wrong. Her and Imloch are on their way to find us, so we just have to meet them halfway ish.”

Gilda finished her rabbit, bones and all, and looked at him, “Alright, I guess thats good.”

“Yeah.” Jason replied, standing up and walking over. “Need any help with anything?” He asked.

“Nah.” Gilda said.

Jason nodded, “Alright, we should be heading out, tell me when you are ready.”

“Ill do that.” Gilda said, nodding.

Author's Note

This is the start of the first major arc, the Evo-Ling arc, in which, as you can tell, is going to be about Jason's and Gilda's fight for survival in the badlands, with Jason as a new species of changeling, the, Evo-Ling, who's details are below.

A Evo-Ling is a more evolved form of a Changeling, with tougher carapace, enhanced speed and strength, better emotion sensing abilities, and superior transformation capabilities.

Tougher Carapace: Where a normal Changeling would be skewered by a spear or a sword, crushed by a mace or maul, a Evo-Ling's skin, or Carapace, is extremely tough, on par with steel, swords and spears would bounce off, while maces and mauls would only slightly dent it. It takes a heavily enchanted weapon to penetrate a Evo-Ling's hide.

Enhanced speed and strength: A changeling on its own is deadly, especially when surrounded. Its strength can break through stone, that, coupled with its high speed, makes a deadly enemy even to a squad of royal guards. An Evo-Ling is even stronger allowing one to break through two feet of steel, and it's speed can outrun a trained Pegasus.

Emotion sensing: Changelings feed off of emotions, but more than that, they can sense them as well. This let's them track and decide on a target to feed off of. An Evo-Ling's emotion sensing ability is upgraded to being able to sense heart rate, as well as slight thoughts.

Superior transformation capabilities: A normal Changeling can morph into an Equine form, with Queens being able to change into other forms, such as a dragon for the strongest of Queens. Evo-Ling's can change their bodies into any form, with the size limit being human sized. As well as that, they can change the material of their skin and shape, to form weapons and armor out of their bodies, or a tool, for when out of combat.

Chapter 8

A loud noise came from outside the cave a few hours after Gilda had woke up, and met Jason again, drawing her attention. She got up from the floor of the cave and walked to the entrance, looking outside. Jason was messing with his body, turning his arm into some sort of round stone saw. She shook her head, the way he looked before was odd, now he just looked incredibly weird and unnerving, especially with the whole, ‘weapons changing’ thing he could do with his body. Jason’s new, more expressive ears swiveled slightly, hearing the slight rustle of the bushes as he turned around, “Feeling any better?” He asked, changing his hand back to normal.

Gilda nodded, “Yeah, it was good I guess that you skewered a whole den, the food you didn't eat was good enough to keep me full for awhile. Hard to fly when you got nothing in ya to help.”

Jason frowned, his eyes becoming a slight blue, “Still not happy I had to do that…” He muttered, before sighing, “Guess I couldn’t avoid it, kill or be killed, I suppose.”

Gilda shrugged, “I heard about some ponies or whatever getting stranded in a desert awhile back before I left home, mighta been a myth, but the pony ate smaller animals it could find, but said sorry and thank you to what it killed for letting it live on till it could get home. Seems sorta dumb, but if you feel sad about killing them, you could probably do that… since the badlands are a desert type area, and the fact that you found this small grassy area is a miracle in itself.”

Jason frowned, “That won’t help us when we’re miles away from any water source, I can sense animals easy, but finding water will be a different thing entirely. Unless we find an oasis, or some cacti, we might be fucked.” He said, his eyes turning a stormy grey.

“Arent you technically a bug, with mood ring eyes?” Gilda said, “Can’t they do something to get water, like...regurgitate food or something?”

Jason looked at her like she was insane, “I don’t think so, and anyway, how would that help you?” He asked, “I don’t think I could get enough water for one person, let alone two by regurgitating food.”

“Not like my mother never did that when I was young.” Gilda replied.

Jason shuddered slightly, “Alright, a bit TMI, but aren’t you part feline, more specifically lion? Griffons do that as well?”

Gilda shrugged, “We got wings like an eagle, we got beaks and claws, I can make a bird noise. We are little fluff balls as kits, useless little things, of course griffons would do a few things the same as a bird.” she rolled her eyes, like it was obvious.

Jason glared at her, his eyes flashing red, “Well excuse me for not knowing about a supposedly mythical creature.” He said.

Gilda smiled, “What were you doing anyway playin with your arm?”

Jason’s eyes didn’t lose their red coloration, “I was testing what I could do with my arm. I made a working circular saw, a construction tool from where I was from. I played a video game once, you killed the living dead by the thousands, and one of the weapons was a sledgehammer mixed with a concrete saw, which is a handheld circular saw, which can cut through flesh, skin, bone, stone, concrete, and if you keep at it, some weaker metals.”

“Ok...” Gilda said.

Jason smirked, his eyes turning bright yellow, “It’s one of the best cutting tools, and, now with my new Evo-Ling Abilities, It’s capabilities have advanced even further, watch.” Jason morphed his hand back into the circular saw, this time with a five foot pole attached to it, “Adds some extra range, and I can also do this…” His entire arm, the pole included became jagged, before rotating along with the blade.

Gilda nodded, a big false smile on her face, “Good for you...” she said, backing up back into the cave.

Jason sighed, his arm returning to normal, “You really can’t pretend to be happy, It is literally impossible for someone to lie to me. You are freaked out to shit right now, and you know what? So am I.” He muttered, “Do you really even know what I am? ‘Cause I sure as hell don’t. Me doing this, seeing what I can do, experimenting on how I can change my body, it’s my way of coping, my way of not having a complete and total mental breakdown, which would cause both of us to die, me from being eaten alive or something, you from not being able to eat.”

“You have people waiting for ya, is all I know about you.” Gildas voice said from the cave.

“And you as well. As long as we get roughly halfway, Imloch and Emily should be able to get to us.” He muttered, “I’m not leaving you alone.”

Gildas sigh echoed, “Ya know, flying away from Ponyville only to be brought back is a stupid thing to have happen.”

“I never said I was going back to Ponyville, did I?” Jason said sadly, “I don’t know how to change my appearance besides my hands and stuff, and I think most ponies would freak out big time…”

Gilda poked her head out of the cave, “Maybe you, being a changeling, just have to work on that. It might be like flight and magic, It might not come naturally?” she guessed, walking out of the cave over to him.

“Maybe… I still don’t know how I could even try living there… I’m just meeting up with Emily and Imloch so that I can tell them where I’m going… Maybe the griffon empire?” He wondered.

“No.” Gilda said instantly.

Jason stared at her, his eyes stormy grey, “Yeah… I think I can go where I want. We only have to have this one journey, then we go our separate ways. Griffon Empire is large enough for us to both live there and never see each other again.”

Gilda shook her head, “I can't go back there, why do you think I went to Equestria anyway?”

Jason looked at her, his eyes now cloudy silver, “Why can’t you-” He let out an “Oh” of understanding, “You were exiled, weren’t you?”

Gilda sighed, “Yeah, and it sucks cause my parents are the king and queen.”

Jason’s eyes widened, turning a bright orange, “So, what you're saying, is that you’re royalty?”

“Disowned and cast out, not royalty anymore.” Gilda growled.

Jason gazed at her, his eyes turning a bit blue, “What happened?” He asked softly.

Gilda shrugged, “Not much for sob stories. I don't care that much, just annoyed that I don't have my own place anymore.” she said.

“Well, wherever I set up, you’re welcome to stay with me, doesn’t have to be in Equestria or the Griffon Empire, I could literally set up anywhere I wish, I’ve heard that Minotauria is supposed to be nice.” Jason said, getting up, “We should probably begin on our way, are you alright enough to walk?”

“Im right next to you. I walked over to you a minute ago. I think I’m good right now.” Gilda said.

Jason sighed, “Then let’s go.” He said, striding forwards.

“I hate slimes!” Imloch growled, casting a burning hands spell to incinerate them, “They always break apart when you slice them.”

Emily sighed, thinking about the dream instead of listening to him complain, thinking about how to explain it without sounding insane, “Just turn into a staff so I can walk if you're only going to whine all the time.”

“I’ll change after you help me, we walked into a bloody nest of them, remember!?” He yelled, casting a fireball, which took out another group, “Burning hands, Flare or Magic missile should work.”

Emily looked down at one bouncing at her feet, “There adorable. I want one as a pet. Lets do a pet familiar binding spell or whatever the fuck you call it.” She said, picking up the slime at her feet. The Slime escaped her hands, attaching itself to her face, immense pain searing into her skin. Emily screamed and ran around, yelling to Imloch to get it off her.

Imloch sighed, casting a ray of frost with one hand, freezing the one on her face while burning another, “Slimes do not make suitable Familiars. If we find a Phoenix or something, that would be better.”

Emily put a hand over her face, feeling it as she looked down, “The small ones looked harmless though, the fucking little monsters...” She muttered.

Imloch chuckled, “The little ones are the worst, aren’t they?” He said, before summoning his familiar, a small beholder, “Get ‘em Bobo.” He said, as the Beholder charged the remaining slimes.

Emily watched it, “Yeah...I think I would like a pet that wasn't a huge eye...”

Imloch chuckled again, “Yeah, Beholders are normally evil creatures, but Bobo is a good Familiar who has saved my bacon more than once.”

“Thats...nice, I think.” Emily said, walking away from the beholders work.

Imloch smirked, leaning against a tree, “Yeah, every wizard should have a familiar. When I was actually alive, they were more vicious animals and magical beings, like imps, small dragons, panthers, hellhounds, and other things. Wizards 200ish years later were using rabbits, beetles, bats and other really weak animals that were no actual use in combat.”

Emily turned and looked at him, “Maybe they just wanted a pet instead of a fighting animal.” She suggested.

Imloch shrugged, “Wizards were in combat a lot, and if their Familiars weren’t strong enough, they died.” He sighed sadly, “A wizard is connected with his Familiar in the most intimate way, and when a connection like that is severed, bang, wizard is dropped, totally incapacitated.”

Emily frowned, “Alright... Do you think I could make Jason a familiar, just to mess with him?” She asked.

Imloch looked at her, “A familiar spell was never intended to be cast on a human being… But theoretically It could work… I wouldn’t recommend it though.”

Emily rubbed the back of her neck and sighed, “He isn't exactly a human, by human standards right now. You know how you woke me up because I set part of the tent on fire and melted it in my sleep?”

Imloch nodded slowly, “Yes…”

“Apparently, Jason is a bug now.” Emily said.

Imloch had taken a draught from his canteen, doing a magnificent spit take at what she said, “Excuse me?” He coughed, trying to get his breath back.

Emily shrugged, “Probably a bad way of telling you apparently. He’s pretty much almost all bug, but still kinda human shaped.” She explained.

Imloch stared at her, “How do you know this!?” He exclaimed, “Leave out no detail!”

“I guess, since Twilight put that spell in our heads so we could track him, and he is whatever sort of bug has telepathy, he got a link with me or something? I don't know! I also don't know why the dream decided for us to meet each other at the school again...” She put a hand to her chin as she thought.

Imloch stared at her, “Bug, badlands? He’s a Changeling!?” He yelled, beginning to freak out.

Emily flinched, “Yeah...I guess he is. I almost killed him too, if thats even possible in a dream, with the spells you showed me.” she said.

“Who did it to him, did he tell you!?” Imloch yelled, really freaking out.

Emily sighed, “Well, first you need to calm down, and second, I think he did, but I forgot. Because I forget dreams sometimes, because people forget shit thats important.” she said.

“Calm down, CALM DOWN?!” He screeched, “Do you know how much energy it takes to fully and permanently transform a being into something else like that?! Changing a person’s entire biology takes colossal energy, and permanently is even tougher!”

Emily walked over to where he was, avoiding the slime puddles on the ground, “By the looks of him, it didn't seem like it was that hard for a changeling to do, besides, we're going back for him and bringing him home! We can get him fixed up later.”

“If he can get fixed…” Imloch muttered, glowing as he changed back into the staff, forming inside Emily’s hand, ”Let’s keep going. Keep practicing Magic missile along the way.”

Emily sighed, “Fine...” she muttered, “Call of Bobo or whatever you called him though.” she said, starting to walk again.

Jason groaned, “And we just had to reach the biggest god damned canyon in the fucking badlands…” His eyes turning stormy grey. The canyon was at least a mile in width, and a couple miles deep.

Gilda rolled her eyes, “Maybe I would be able to fly myself if I was at my usual great self, but I'm still not strong enough yet to fly long distances, and even if I was, I can't carry you.”

Jason sighed, “Yeah I figured that… Any ideas for how to get across? Cause I can’t fly yet… Nor can I use Magic…”

Gilda stared at him like he was an idiot, “Cant fly over, can't go through. We can walk along with cliff face of this canyon until we get to the end of it, it isn't like its impossible to get across it.” She said.

“It appears to be at least a dozen miles in length, maybe more…”

Gilda shrugged, “We got no other way across. Might as well get movin.” She said.

Jason nodded, “I do agree, but this is gonna take a while.” He said, beginning to walk.

Gilda started walking, moving carefully so she wouldn't slip as she watched where she walked, “We might get there in an hour.”

Jason nodded, walking along side her, “Since we’re going to be traveling together, we should probably get to know each other a bit better.”

Gilda sighed, “I don't see the reason for that really. I also am questioning why I am the one walking close to the canyon...” she shook her head, and moved further away from the ledge.

“Probably a good idea…” He said, walking away from the edge as well, “But I kind of want to know the person who I’m gonna be traveling with for the foreseeable future, and longer, you know, for trust reasons. Can’t fight with someone who I don’t trust with my life and all that Jazz…” He said, looking around.

Gilda sighed, “What is it you need to know besides what you have seen already?”

“Just, anything, favorite foods, likes, dislikes, fears.” He said, “Stuff I know so I don’t piss you off.”

Gilda shrugged, “I like chicken more than anything else to eat, since I can eat them without a pony losing their cool about it. You know already I don't really like ponies, and stuff I do like is personal.”

“Any fears? Stuff I know that you’ll freak out when faced with? So I know when to put on the defense.” He replied.

“If I got fears, I try to fight em. I don't want to come off as a griffon who can't handle her own.” Gilda growled.

“Never hurts to have backup. Never said you couldn’t help yourself, but theres a limit that every being can take, and having someone to back you up can help big time.” He said, continuing to look around.

“Whatever.” Gilda said.

Jason quickened his pace ever so slightly, “There’s been something following us for the past fifteen minutes, and whoever or whatever it is just speeded up.” He whispered to Gilda.

Gilda glared at him, “And you decide to tell me this now?” She asked angrily.

“I was hoping that It was nothing, but now I know that something is after us, I would DUCK!” He yelled, whipping around and bringing up a shield from his arms as a giant four legged monster impacted it sending him skidding backwards.

Gilda looked at what had fallen to the ground, “Ya know, a shield you can make with your own body is kinda cool.”

“Thanks.” Jason said, turning the shield into a sword, “But this fight isn’t over yet.” He turned to glare at the beast, “Now what the hell are you.”

The beast roared deafeningly. It was a giant, purple translucent bear with star shapes in it’s body, and a giant red one in it’s forehead.

Gilda backed up, “Yeah… this I’m not gunna fight, cause no one can win against an Ursa Major, and they are totally invincible to ponies and other stuff.” She turned tail and ran away.

“GET TO SAFETY!!!” He roared, before growling menacingly, his eyes flashing an ugly red, “Well, it’s time someone tried, and I’m gonna die, but might as well give Gilda a chance to run away.” He charged at the beast his sword raised high, as the beast slammed into him with a paw throwing him to the edge. “This is gonna end in my death, so might as well run!” He yelled, making small wheels at the bottom of his feet and roller skating towards the direction that Gilda ran, catching up to her rather quickly.

Gilda panted, looking at him, “This thing is going to kill us both. Why is it even here?! Did someone piss off its baby and bring it outside the everfree?!” she exclaimed.

“THAT WOULD REALLY NOT BE GOOD!” He yelled, “I can outpace you easy, get on my back, with both of our wings beating, we can get away from that bastard really quick!”

“Your wings are barely over a foot long, you cannot fly and I cannot fly, with our weight.” she said, running faster, avoiding her tail getting stepped on by an inch.

“Never said anything about flight,” The wheels on his feet changed into a board with wheels on the bottom, “Called a skateboard, the propulsion from both our wings should rocket us away from that oversized constellation.”

Gilda looked at it as she ran beside him, “Looks like a dumber version of that pegasus fillies scooter.” she looked back at the Ursa right behind them, and jumped onto the skateboard, “I’ll do this anyway.” she said, flapping her wings quickly.

“Good, that filly does the same thing that we’re about to do, and she goes really fast, so with two of us, we should go even faster, let’s do it!” He said, beating his wings at a rapid pace and creating a buzzing sound.

Gildas eyes twitched from the noise, but she beat her wings faster, syncing up with Jasons as they both tried getting the skateboard to go faster.

Jason glanced backwards, smiling at noticing that the big bear was falling behind, “How much longer can you keep up the pace?”

Gilda groaned, burning in her wings, “I don't even know how its possible we are even getting away from it on a skateboard.” She said.

“We flap our wings, which creates thrust, the thrust pushes backwards, and newton’s third law states that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction, so we move forwards at the same speed.” Jason explained, jumping slightly at the roar that the bear gave. Jason turned back again, paling at the bear speeding up, “Oh Fuck…”

“I knew we could never outrun an Ursa Major, it should not be possible.” Gilda gritted her teeth, and her wings started slowing down.

“Crapcrapcrapcrap…” Jason muttered repeatedly, “What to do…” He glanced at the canyon, grimacing, “I got an Idea… It’ll either kill us or save our asses…”

“We die either way here.” Gilda sighed. “Just do it.”

Jason nodded, gulping, “Alright… but I’m gonna need you to flap as hard as you can when I say to, alright?” He asked, turning back to the canyon, narrowly avoiding the purple space bear.

Gilda nodded, “Alright.” she said, her wings flapping slowly due to the burning.

“You get about 5.678 seconds of rest before we go over.” Jason shouted over the wind, flapping his wings harder, “GET READY!” Gilda nodded, waiting as she stopped flapping her wings.

Jason’s face gained a manic smirk, his eyes glistening gold, “I AM THE CONDUCTOR OF THE POOP TRAIN!” He screamed, letting loose a maniacal laugh as they went over the edge. “FLAP! NOW!” He roared, turning his arms into giant wings, adding extra stability.

“I don't even know what that even meant!” Gilda yelled, gritting her teeth as she flapped her wings, the burning immense.

Imloch sighed, sitting down next to Emily, panting slightly, “That… was tiring…” He groaned, “Never… try to take a dragon… for a Familiar again…” He glared at the female next to her, who blushed slightly, as she remembered what had happened a couple of hours ago.

Imloch walked forward, a thick tree branch in his hands, “There should be a clearing up ahead, if Bobo’s information is correct.”

Emily sighed, “I'm just waiting until this actually becomes a badlands and not a forest.” She said, looking around.

Imloch stuck out his arm, stopping Emily from moving, “There’s someone up ahead, listen.” A sound reached their ears, a sound like cracking eggshells. “You hear that?”

Emily frowned, “Yes...who the hell is this far out?” she asked.

“Someone looking for trouble…” A new voice said from right behind them, causing them to jump. A bipedal dragon like Spike stood behind them, except this one was crimson and at least three to four times his size, and was looking at Emily strangely. “Why would anyone be out this far? Only reason is that they’re looking for trouble.”

Emily looked at the red dragon, “I’m not looking for anything but my best friend.”

The red dragon’s look became flirtatious, “Loyalty, I like that in a woman. Why don’t you come meet my friends, they’re having a great time up ahead.”

Emily blinked, before she looked at the ground, “What the fuck is happening...” she muttered, looking up at Imloch, “Technically, you should be my father figure right now.”

Imloch looked back at Emily, ”Lets see what happens before I lay the smack down on them…” He said telepathically to Emily, ”You heard what he said, only people out here are looking for trouble, so what is he doing?” He asked.

The red dragon looked at them, “What do you say, sweet cheeks?” He asked Emily.

Emily glared at him, “I'm going to break you, and then make you my familiar… maybe that way I can make you not be a creepy ass.” she said.

The dragon snorted, “Feisty, I like that as well,” He smiled, “Names Garble, and yours?” He asked, giving half lidded eyes to Emily.

“Holy fucking shit, your a dragon. Stay in your own species pervert.” Emily said, picking up a good sized rock from the ground and throwing it at him.

Garble’s eyes widened as he slowly looked downwards towards his male parts, before screeching in pain, as he fell onto the ground. “OH FUCK YOU BITCH!” He roared, glaring at her, “WHEN I’M DONE WITH YOU, YOU WON’T BE ABLE TO WALK STRAIGHT FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!” His head whipped towards the clearing, “GET OVER HERE YOU IDIOTS!”

Two more dragons lumbered through the trees, one was a brown color and exceedingly fat, and the other was purple with skater hair, “What’s up?” The black brown one said with a dopey voice, “We were in the middle of smashing the Phoenix nest, theres only one left,” He held up a egg with fire designs on it, “The alpha egg!” He said proudly, “I saved it for you Garble.”

Garble glared at them, “KILL THEM!” He screamed, “KILL THEM AND CHAR THEIR BONES!”

Emily groaned, “This sucks sooo hard.” she said, running away back the way they had come.

Imloch’s eyes were smouldering, “You smashed Phoenix eggs?” He growled, “I’m going to kill you so hard.” His hands lit up as he performed a complex spell. A bright flash blinded everyone in the woods, and as it fell, a giant red dragon, at least twenty stories tall appeared in Imloch’s place, more like the classic dragons of western lore. “Saw a man, but instead found a god?” He growled, looking down upon the now shaking drakes, “I know magics that would spell destruction for even the greatest of gods, puny mortals like yourselves don’t stand a chance.” He growled, his mouth glowing with an internal fire, “Begone from my sight.” This was the final straw for the dragons, as they screamed, fleeing as they left small puddles beneath where they were. “Good riddance.” He chuckled, changing back into his human form. “They won’t be smashing any eggs anytime soon.” He chuckled, picking up his tree branch staff, glancing at the egg, before picking it up. “Maybe Emily will get a Familiar after all.” He chuckled once more.

The dragons had noticed that the giant dragon had gone, and they wanted revenge. When Emily had walked back to imloch, and they had settled down around a campfire in a clearing, the woods around them burst into flames. “Well well well…” Said a familiar voice, “Looks like we caught some eggs in need of squishing.” Garble and his two cronies landed in the clearing next to them.

Emily slapped herself in the face, “Why do teenage dragons seem to all be assholes.” she muttered.

Garble grabbed her by the neck, glaring her down, “I want you.” He hissed, “And I always get what I want.”

“Rape!” Emily yelled, “This completely counts as rape to the highest degree!” she thought quickly, and started casting a spell, her mind pushing itself on Garbles’ as she tried forcibly making him a familiar.

Garble snarled, smashing Emily with the mental equivalent of a sledgehammer, “I am no-ones’, you are mine, and mine alone.” He growled, tightening his grip on Emily’s neck, before sighing as Imloch sent his two cronies flying, “How hard is it to kill one non-armored pony?!” He roared.

Emily coughed, trying to get air, as Imloch prepared another spell, “GET AWAY FROM HER!” He roared, casting an advanced version of Magic Missile, sending a couple dozen more powerful missiles at Garble, who was thrown backwards, dropping Emily on a rock. As the three dragons stumbled trying to get up, Imloch cast another spell, which turned their flesh into stone, “Don’t worry, it only lasts an hour to twenty four,” He smirked, “And you’ll be conscious the whole time, so enjoy.” He smirked, picking up Emily from the rock and running out of the glen, casting a cone of cold spell to put out the fires in his way.

Emily rubbed her neck, “Don't worry, I won't ever try that again, even if it is to save my life. Jesus, I have never thought that I would ever even get attempted to be raped by a dragon. Even an asshole one...” she muttered.

Imloch’s eyes were glowing black, “That bastard got off easy…” He muttered, before taking the egg out of his bag, “For you.” He said, his scowl morphing into a small smile.

Emily picked it up, looking at it, “Did one of those dragons lay an egg in terror at some point?” She asked.

Imloch let out a loose chuckle, “No, when we first saw those dragons, they were smashing Phoenix eggs…” He said sadly, “This is the last egg, and this is an Alpha Phoenix egg.” He said.

Emily sighed, “I don't understand your wording, whenever you talk about something like this. What does Alpha Phoenix egg even mean?!” She exclaimed.

“An Alpha Phoenix egg hatches an Alpha Phoenix, think of it as the equivalent of a Alpha wolf in a wolf pack, Stronger, Faster, and much more Magically attuned.” He said, “And the time when they just hatch is the best for making a Familiar. Which should be, now.” A crack echoed throughout the small clearing, a head popping out of the top of the egg, a piece of the shell like a hat. “Now, cast the spell.”

Emily looked at the baby phoenix, and cast the spell, her mind pushing gently on its own, showing it stuff from her life to form the bond. The Phoenix chirped, tilting it’s head as it accepted the bond. It chirped again, flying upwards shakily and nuzzling Emily, a slight warmth coming from the area. She smiled, “What should I name you then?” She wondered.

“Fawks?” Imloch suggested, “Sounds noble.”

Emily frowned, “No, that sounds dumb...” something in her mind clicked, “Am I going to be murdered by two very angry parents if they find out I have their baby?”

A shadow crossed across Imloch’s face, “No… The dragon’s took care of that…” He sighed, “You, in the eyes of the Phoenix, are it’s mother.”

Emily sighed sadly, “Oh, alright then. I guess thats good for me then.” She looked at the phoenix, “His or her name is Blaze.”

“Blaze, I like Blaze.” Imloch said, “We should keep going, get some distance between us and those assholes.” Imloch said, casting a ray of frost at the fire and putting it out, “Are you and Blaze ready?” He asked as he stood up.

Emily nodded, standing up, “Yeah, lets go.” she said, holding Blaze in one hand as they began walking.

Chapter 10

Thunder raced through the town, only pausing to glare angrily at Trixie's caravan that had gotten set back up. Soon enough he found himself back at the motel. Slowing to a trot, he entered his room, noticing that Shadows' door was ajar, and that snoring was emanating out of it. "He really needs to stop sleeping so much..." Thunder muttered to himself, before going into his room. Once he closed the door and locked it behind him, he pulled a small mirror out of his saddle bag. "42-42-564" He muttered after breathing on it, writing the numbers in it. The mirror began to shimmer, turning pure white before the face of Celestia appeared, "First Lieutenant Thunder Quill checking in." He said with a salute.

Celestia smiled warmly, “What do you have to report to me on the bearers safety and protection from whomever stole the missing book?” she asked.

Thunder nodded, "Nothing much your highness, I've settled in, and the town seems to be secure, I'll need to do a more thorough examination of the town later. Applejack seems to know that my cover story was bogus, even though I didn't have any tells..." He told her.

Celestia chuckled, “I see. Well, she would know, since her element happens to be Honesty.” she said.

Thunder nodded, "Yes ma'am," He said before snarling, "The mare from the Hoofington incident was there."

Celestia sighed, “Oh yes, I remember her. She is not a threat to the elements, and you are not to engage her. I know that Twilight can handle her if she does manage to do something bad,” she looked into his eyes from the mirror, “You are not permitted to interfere.”

Thunder sighed, "Yes ma'am, I know. I would not harm a civilian, but I can't stop thinking about it." He sighed again, "I'll report in again tomorrow, after my examination of the town."

Celestia nodded, “Dismissed.” she said.

The mirror shimmered, before it turned back into a mirror. Thunder sighed, "This might be harder than I originally planned..."

Jason opened his eyes blearily, noting the ground around him was suddenly softer. Turning his head to the side, he smiled slightly as he saw Gilda curled up next to him. "Good morning..." He whispered, noting the sun was already risen.

Gilda shifted and opened her eyes, turning her head to look at him, “Morning. I noticed you were shivering, guess the badlands are really cold at night in a cave, so I did what I could to keep you warm.” she stood up, and jumped out of the alcove, looking out the cave entrance.

Jason smiled, before jumping as something big touched his back, "What the..." He said, turning around to see two fully grown wings, each ten feet in length, pop out of his back. "Alright then..." He said, smiling.

Gilda turned and looked back at him, “At least your wings have gotten something out of being in the badlands for the past four days.” she said. Jason simply smirked, jumping out of the alcove and running to the edge of the cliff, leaping off, his wings tucked tightly against his body. Gilda ran to the edge of the cave entrance, “You don't know how to actually fly yet you idiot!” She yelled, jumping out to get him.

Jason smirked, "Oh I know how to alright..." He let out a laugh as he unfurled his wings, the air catching underneath them as he slowed, before beating them to get up to Gilda. "Now that, was AWESOME!" He yelled, "I can see why you love it so much!"

Gilda rolled her eyes as she stopped flying down, “Yes, because I jump off cliffs and shoot up in the air as I open my wings for fun. That isn't what's great about it, Hole Wings, what's great is doing tricks and flying freely.” she flew past him and started doing loops in the air.

"Nice," Jason said, before frowning as he looked at his wings in more detail, “These look like dragon wings, not insect wings... "

Gilda flew back over to him, “Whatever, maybe your wings are deformed like that because of the huge fight you almost died in.” she said.

"I had everything under control." He said, "That said, don't think I'll be doing it again anytime soon."

“You killed a whole horde, I don't think you could do it again any time soon.” Gilda said, looking around in the sky, “We need to get some food, and since we can both fly now, probably get to your friends faster.”

Jason nodded, "Thinking the same. What do you think they'll say after finding out we're together?"

Gilda looked at him, “Who said I would tell them, or that I agreed?” she smirked.

"Well, if I don't tell Emily, and she finds out later, I don't think I'll be able to function for a while..." He said, glancing downwards.

Gilda stared at him, “Not like you need to function, since I am not doing that.” she said, flying down closer to the ground to look for something to eat.

"That's not what I meant..." He groaned, speeding up to catch up with her. "I meant I won't be able to do anything because I'll be in so much pain. Didn't mean anything pervy..." He said once he caught up with her.

“Just use your emotion thing so we can get some food.” Gilda said.

Jason nodded, looking at the ground, "This area seems to have been stripped bare, probably by the dragons." He informed her, "We should keep going towards the forests, more food should be there.

Gilda frowned, “You don't want to try dragon meat from the ones you killed?” she asked.

Jason paled, " Not particularly... One, I have a huge respect to dragons, and two, I was one, and it seems really weird to do that... "

Gilda shrugged, “More for me then.” she flew down and landed by the dragon he had beheaded, and pulled off some of the scales on its belly, before ripping it open and eating into it.

Jason looked at the dead dragons, an idea forming. He flew down to the black dragon and began ripping off its scales, "If I do this right... Then..." He muttered, turning his arm into a giant scissor and cutting a portion of its skin off. "Now, if this works..." He muttered, his horn glowing a dark green. The same green glow enveloped the strip, as it changed into a duster. "Now that is awesome," He said as he put it on, his wings flitting through slits on the back. "Dragon-Hide duster, now that is cool."

Gilda finished eating the dragon and backed up, licking her beak of the leftover meat and blood, “They taste better then I would have thought.”

Jason nodded, "I'll take your word for it." He said, standing up, "We should get going, I can see the edges of the forest a couple miles that way." He said, pointing past the mountains.

Gilda fluffed out her wings and flew into the air, heading to where he pointed.

"We're almost to the badlands." Imloch said to Emily.

Emily stared at him, “You mean this big ass forest with the fucking dragons isnt a part of the badlands, and we have been in a fucking forest, for four whole days, because WE ARE SLOW AS HELL?!” she exclaimed.

"Maybe?" Imloch said sheepishly, "I might have completely overestimated the distance... By like 199,990,000 miles..."

Emily groaned, “Fuuuuuuuucccccckkkk.” she complained, “And the baby familiar I have doesn't even act like a cute baby, I made its childhood basically shit.”

Blaze flew up and nuzzled Emily's cheek, "It's alright, you saved me from the dragons."

Emily sighed, picking him up and hugged him to her chest, “I know, but I like little kids and babies having childhoods.” she said.

"Sorry to cut this touching moment short," A familiar voice said as two thuds emanated from behind the trio, "But we're looking for a old as dirt wizard and a soccer player with a Phoenix, you wouldn't have seen anyone like that would you?"

Emily turned around and grabbed Jason in a hug, “You're an ass.” she said, smiling.

Jason hugged her back tighter, "I know," He said, smiling, letting go after a minute, "Nice to see you again Em."

“Nice seeing you again too, even though you look really different now...” Emily said, looking at him.

Jason chuckled, "Yeah, I know." He said, before turning to the other being who landed, "May I introduce to you, Gilda the griffon."

“Hay.” Gilda said, waving a claw.

Emily looked at her, “Hay. Jason told me you were with him.” she said.

“Cool.” Gilda said.

Jason looked between the two, suddenly feeling dread, "I hope you two get along." He said, "Especially since Gilda is going to be living with me in the cave."

Emily shrugged, “At least you won't be lonely, thats...something I guess.” she put Blaze on her shoulder and looked at Imloch, “Looks like this is apparently halfway.”

"Halfwayish, I suppose..." Imloch said, looking at Jason's duster, "Where'd you get that?" He said, before throwing Jason a bag, "Didn't know someone would be with you, so I only packed one extra bag of holding."

Jason smirked, grabbing the bag, "killed about a dozen dragons, cut off a piece of its skin and made a duster "

Gilda shrugged, “I don't have anything to put into a bag anyway... wish I had kept some of that dragon meat though...” she muttered, looking back.

“How the hell did you kill any dragons?” Emily asked.

"Turned into one myself," He smirked, turning back towards the badlands, "I forgot some stuff back there, wait for me, I might be a couple hours." He said, unfolding his wings and taking off.

A couple hours later, Jason flew back, his bag of holding bulging slightly at the load inside of it.

Emily stood up from her spot leaning against a tree, “What did you get that took fucking hours?!”

Jason took a step back, "Sorry, I grabbed a couple dozen scales, and a dozen or so pounds of their meat, Gilda likes it."

Gilda nodded, “Yeah, thanks for that. Did you get one of their hearts too? I always wanted to taste one...” she said.

Emily stared at her, “Ew...”

"Yeah, I grabbed a couple." He said, motioning to the bag. "Figured they might have alchemical properties."

Emily rubbed her eyes, “I see this as incredibly concerning...I'm not learning alchemy. I have no interest in that anymore.” she muttered.

Gilda looked at her for a second, before she smiled at Jason, “Thanks for getting that stuff anyway, cant wait to eat some again when I need it.”

Jason smiled back, giving her a light kiss on the cheek, "No problem."

Emily took her hands off her face and looked at Blaze on her shoulder, can we talk in thoughts?” she wondered.

"Yes, yes we can. " Blaze said.

Emily sighed, Thats good, now I don't have to look insane with one sided conversations on my part. she said, looking into Blaze’s eyes.

"Yes."

Gilda stared at Emily as she looked at the baby Phoenix, before turning back to Jason, “I think its a good time for us to get going, since were all reunited and whatever.”

Jason nodded, "Yeah, probably." He began walking towards Ponyville through the forest, "You coming?" He asked, his duster flapping in the breeze.

Emily looked over at him, whatever she was doing before broken, “Yeah, lets go. Bloody takes three days to get this far, could have probably just done short distance teleports this whole time...” she grumbled.

"I'm not strong enough to teleport more than myself, and I doubt imloch can teleport you, Gilda and himself." Jason said.

Emily sighed, “Fine, I guess another three days of walking is fine...” she said.

Jason smiled, "I said I couldn't teleport, but I can do something else..." He said softly, his skin changing to a silver sheen. He changed into his silver dragon form, albeit smaller, "Anyone want to ride a dragon?"

Emily looked at Imloch, “You sure I can't have two familiars?”

Imloch sighed, "Yes, I am sure that you can't have Jason as a familiar."

Emily sighed, “Fine.” she said, walking over to Jason, “So, how do I climb up?” she asked.

Jason lowered a wing, "Climb up."

Emily smiled and stepped on his wing, holding onto the leathery skin as she climbed up onto his back, standing on top of him before she sat down on his neck.

"Be careful," He said, "Don't fall off."

Imloch nodded, climbing onto him, "First time I've rode a dragon."

Emily grabbed onto a scale on his neck, “Ill be careful.” she said, rolling her eyes.

Gilda looked at them, “I think I'm good flying on my own.”

"Don't be afraid to get on if you get tired, plenty of room." He said.

Gilda flew up into the air, “I'll keep that in mind if I need it.” she said, going up over the tree line and heading in the direction Emily and Imloch had been walking away from the whole time.

Jason flew on through the night, never once stopping, mostly in silence, "Was there really no reaction to me and Gilda?"

Emily lifted her head from looking down at the ground, oddly wide awake as opposed to everyone else asleep, “Nothing surprises me much anymore now. Im a wizard, in a land of ponies, and your a changeling hybrid, who I talk to while I sleep. I have stopped asking questions.” she said, keeping Imloch in her hand so he wouldn't roll or fall off.

Jason nodded, "Alright, makes sense." He said, before suddenly roaring in agony.

“What happened?!” Gilda yelled, waking up quickly from the sound, “I need sleep here!” Jason continued his roar of agony, until it stopped short. The dragon beneath the group vanished, replaced by Jason's humanoid form, unbreathing.

Emily looked down at the ground again, realizing it was getting closer, “Shit, I can't fly!” she yelled.

Gilda grabbed Jason out of midair, flying quickly to the ground and putting him down, before going back for Emily and catching her, noting that she had fallen unconscious from the terror, letting Imloch fall to the ground and change back into a human as he woke up as she held Emily and Blaze, bringing them to the ground. She looked at Jason and put her ear to his chest, hearing no heartbeat. Gilda lifted her head, panicking as she thought, “What was that one class about resuscitation...” she muttered quickly, before she got on top of him and started jumping on his body.

Imloch rushed over to her pulling her away from him, "This isn't a normal accident." He growled, "He needs help by someone who has medical experience. Bring him to the cave in the mountain near Ponyville, I can teleport Emily and I to Twilight's house, who can get help."

Gilda stared at him, “Can't you just teleport to the hospital directly for him or go yourself?” she growled.

Imloch shook his head, "I'm not trusted in town overall, but if Twilight is there, they will help. Now go!" He yelled.

Gilda grabbed Jason and shot into the air, flying quickly in the direction of Ponyville, Jason actually getting them a lot closer than they would have just walking.

Imloch popped into Twilight's bedroom, Emily awake and standing next to him, "Twilight!" He yelled, "We need help!"

“The Ursa's gone!” Twilight yelled, sitting up in her bed, she squinted in the dark of the room, “Imloch...” she muttered.

Said wizard nodded impatiently, "Yes, this is a matter of life and death! Haste is required!"

Twilight got out of bed and looked up at him, “What's going on?” she asked.

"We found Jason, and something bad happened, he's not breathing." He explained.

Twilight's eyes widened, “Where is he?” she asked.

“The dragons old cave at the mountain.” Emily said.

"Yes, can we hurry!?" Imloch yelled, waking Spike.

"Wassgoinon?" He muttered sleepily.

Twilight looked at Spike, “No time to explain, I have to go.” she ran down the stairs and out of the library, heading for the mountain.

Imloch sighed, teleporting himself and Emily in front of Twilight, "Magic Twilight! Do you use it?!"

Twilight glared at him, stopping herself from knocking into him, “Yes, I do, but using magic to teleport up a mountain is dangerous, especially one that steep. Of course...I do know the layout of the cave entrance, and it is big enough to teleport on...” she thought for a second, as her horn glowed, before she disappeared, appearing at the base of the mountain. She looked up, making calculations and measurements in her head, before her horn glowed again and she stood halfway on the platform of the entrance. She quickly scrambled up onto the platform and sighed, “A few missing measurements, but it could have been worse...” she muttered.

"Get in here Twilight!" Imloch's voice said from inside the cave. Twilight forgot about the measurements and ran into the cave, seeing Jason changed drastically, writhing violently. "Thank god you're here." Imloch said, "He doesn't have a pulse, but he keeps writhing."

Twilight ran over, and stared at him, “You forgot to mention that he is completely burned, and has wings!” she exclaimed, her horn glowing as she used a scanning spell to look him over.

"And is dating a Griffon." Imloch said, gesturing to Gilda.

When Twilight looked up at her, Gilda waved, “Hay, ya know what his problem is?” she asked.

Twilight looked back down, continuing to check the scan. She frowned, looking at his head, “He has some sort of worm in his head...” she said.

"A worm? Can you get rid of it?" Imloch asked.

“I am not a brain surgeon!” Twilight yelled, “I did not study brain anatomy... I am not qualified for healing things worse then a scratch.”

"Then who else?!" Imloch yelled back, "You know more magic than anyone, who else knows how to deactivate the worm of death?!"

“A brain surgeon, who actually has a degree, in brain surgery!” Twilight exclaimed.

"Are there any in Ponyville!?" He yelled back, "It's the only place close enough!"

“Theres a hospital here, I'm sure a brain surgeon is there.” Twilight replied.

Gilda was silent, a dark look on her face, “They won't work on him, hes part changeling, they would never try and help one of them. We need to break open his head ourselves and get the thing out.” she said.

Imloch stared at her, "Are you fucking insane?! You want to break his skull and mess around with his brain?! Twilight can't repair it if it gets fucked up!"

Twilight frowned, “Actually, I did read before that the brain has no pain sensors, which is why it is fine to have a surgery for it while the patient is awake...the only issue is opening his head and keeping it intact so that it can be put back together. The blood loss would also be an issue...” she muttered. She looked up at Imloch, “Can you use your magic to keep the flow of blood from leaving? I can't open his head, but I know that if it gets open, I can pull the worm out of him...”

Imloch glared at her, before sighing, "Alright... Just do it." He blocked the flow of blood as Twilight found a way to cut open Jason's skull without injuring or breaking any part of it.

Imloch released his magic, sighing in slight exhaustion as Twilight held the worm in her magic, dead without it's host. "Is he alive?"

Twilight looked at Jason, quickly lifting his head and knitting the two pieces back together, “I'm so lucky that Rarity likes teaching me sewing sometimes...” she muttered, scanning Jasons body again as she gave the worm to Imloch, “His heart isn't beating.” she said.

Gilda roared, and flew at Imloch, grabbing the worm and throwing it on the floor, stomping on it as she flew out of the cave. Twilight stared after her, before Gilda flew back into the cave and pushed her into the wall, grabbing Jason and kissing him on the lips. Jason's chest rose explosively, as he took a huge breath, "Wha..." He gasped, trying to refill his lungs, "What happened?" Gilda didn't respond, only pulling him into a hug, her face in his chest, crying a little. Jason didn't know what was going on, but he hugged her back, trying to comfort her.

Twilight couched, “You need to be careful...I'm not sure how good I am at actually stitching...” she said.

Jason stared blankly, "What happened?" He asked again.

Emily blinked, “I'm more confused then you, I just smell blood...” She had a blindfold on, because she was freaking out too much at watching an operation, that Imloch had to blind her.

"There was a worm, inside your head. It stopped your heart, then tried to destroy you from the inside." Imloch explained.

Jason blinked, "Alright... You took care of it, right?"

Twilight nodded, “I did, just...don't move your head a lot until it could be safe to take the stitches out. I'm not really trained, so I might have done it wrong...” She said.

"That's comforting..." Jason muttered, before turning his attention to Gilda, "Can we be left alone?" He asked the group.

“Depends, can Imloch remove the blindfold he magically stuck to me?” Emily asked, feeling around the walls.

Jason looked to Imloch, who snapped his fingers, the blindfold disappearing. "Let's go guys." Imloch said, getting up.

Emily blinked, her eyes glowed green for a second after the blindfold was taken off, before she shook her head and left the cave with Imloch and Twilight.

Jason sighed, still looking down at the crying griffon, "Gilda... Are you alright?" He asked softly.

Gilda looked up from his chest, the tear stains from under her eyes clearly evident, "D-does it look li-like I am?" She said through her sobs, "Y-you c-could have di-died..." She whimpered, her eyes filling with tears again.

Jason looked down at her with compassion, "I'm still here." He said softly, "It's going to be alright..."

Gilda let out a tear-racked sob, "What I've se-seen so far, you get yourself in dan-danger pointlessly, if you di-died, I don't know..." She descended into sobs once more.

Jason held her tighter, "All my life I've wanted to help people, and now I have the ability to do so... I have to help if I can."

Gilda looked up at him, sadness clear in her eyes, "And that makes you throw away your life?" She said, "What do you owe them, that makes you have to give up your life?" Gilda placed her face on his chest, muttering something intelligible.

"What was that?" Jason asked, frowning, as Gilda mumbled something a bit louder, "One more time?" He asked. His cheek stung, and he recoiled as Gilda's outstretched claw impacted his face.

"I said I love you, you big idiot." She growled, tears falling down her face with increased velocity. Jason's eyes widened, before he began to chuckle, making Gilda stare at him, "Did that slap break you?" She asked, almost sounding worried that she had.

Jason shook his head, still laughing, "No, but I am more happy than I ever have been before." He pulled her closer as he brought her beak to his lips, both opening automatically as he kissed her with a passion that he had never known. Jason broke the kiss for a second, to say the three most anticipated words of a relationship, "I love you." He uttered, before going back into the kiss with full force.

Jason groaned, the ache in his back pounding from the stone floor, his scowl on his face instantly morphed into a smile as he saw Gilda curled up next to him, as he gave her a small kiss on her beak, "Morning love."

Gilda stirred, moving out of Jason's grip as she stretched like a cat, "Morning," She said, smiling at him, "Sleep well?"

Jason smiled back, "Good, yourself?"

She purred at him, "Never better."

Jason smiled back, "Awesome."

Gilda nuzzled him, and sighed, “You know, I'm not going to do this a lot.” she said, smiling, “Only on special occasions.”

Jason smiled, "Every moment is special with you." He said.

Gilda shrugged, “I guess, but the point is, I'm not normally into over affection most of the time, so don't expect much.” she said.

Jason shrugged, before frowning, "I do need to head into town... Get some stuff from my room from the tower..."

Gilda shrugged, “Get some torches or something too, I'm not real big on the whole dark cave thing.” Gilda said.

Jason nodded, "Sure thing." He began to walk out of the cave, before stopping, "Do you think the villagers would chase me with torches and pitchforks if they see me?"

Gilda stared at him, “You can change.” She said.

Jason shifted, an uncomfortable look on his face, "About that... I'm nervous about transforming again..."

Gilda nodded slowly, “I can see why I guess, since you almost killed anyone who couldn't fly when you changed back...you still have that weird communication thing with Emily right? Just ask her.” she suggested.

"A good idea, except I can only use it in dreams..." He said, glancing outside, "I was friends with these ponies for a couple months, what's the worst that could happen?”

Gilda sighed, “Don't do something stupid and die again...” She groaned.

Jason smirked, " Me? Do something stupid? Wherever did you get that idea?" He laughed as he dodged a rock thrown at him.

Shadow yawned, waking up, going into the kitchen, “Hay.”

Thunder glanced at him, smirking, "Morning sleeping Sith Lord, sleep well?"

Shadow glared at him, “Go eat a cactus.”

Thunder laughed, "I'll do that if your eat your saber."

Shadow sighed, “Why did I want to come with you here if all you're going to do is make jokes about that stupid job...” he sighed, “What happened last night, I heard roaring, did you have stomach problems again?” he smirked, going into the fridge.

Thunder gave him a deadpan stare, "Hardy har har." He said before getting a concerned look, "Roaring huh? There was a dragon in the mountain outside town," He glanced out the window, "Enjoy breakfast, I'm gonna go outside." He said, walking out the door.

“Yeah, whatever.” Shadow said, rooting through the fridge.

Jason leaped off of the side of the mountain, his wings tucked close to his sides as he hurtled towards the ground, One thousand feet. He thought to himself, enjoying the thrill of the uncontrolled dive.

One hundred feet.

Fifty feet.

Twenty feet.

Jason took a deep breath, smirking, NOW! He unfurled his wings in a flash, his fall stopping in a heartbeat, zooming forwards as he beat his wings. "YAHOOOOOOO!" Jason yelled in exuberance, "THIS IS BLOODY AWESOME!" , a ripping pain tore through his left wing, leaving a gaping hole. Before he was even able to react, another pain tore through his other wing, making him lose altitude at an alarming rate. "SHITSHITSHITSHITSHITSHIT!!" He yelled, trying to land on something relatively soft.

Unluckily for him, he wasn't able to do that, as he smashed into a tree. "Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck..." He groaned, sliding off of the rough bark.

"What are you?" A new voice said, as he felt a small pierce on his back, which he knew was a sword.

Jason groaned turning around, the blade not doing anything to his dragonhide duster, as he saw a white unicorn with a black mane and tail, a very familiar sword pointed at him,"Jason Schmidt, can you not point blades at people? It's considered rude in some civilizations to try and stab them."

The unicorn glared at him, "The human does not look like you, nor does he have wings or a horn."

He blinked as Jason's whole attitude changed. He slumped slightly, his eyes turning blue, "Courtesy of Queen Chrysalis..." He muttered.

That got the unicorns attention, "Chrysalis? Ruler of the strongest changeling hive," He growled as Jason nodded, "In the name of the Royal Guard I place you under arrest!"

Jason stared at him, "Under what fucking grounds?!"

"Aiding and abetting one of Equestria's greatest threat." He growled.

Jason continued to stare, "You do realize that she kidnapped me and did this forcibly to me?"

The Unicorn didn't respond, instead raising his blade, a feral warcry released from his lips.

Twilight looked at the ponies assembled in the library, happy that they had come at such short notice after saying she needed to tell them something important. “Im sorry if any of you girls were busy...” she said.

"Eh, I was taking a nap." Rainbow said, nodding to Twilight.

“Ah kin always leave tha farm every now an then, ain't really got much ta do after tha season.” Applejack replied, “Sides, Ah had ta wake Rainbow from one ah tha trees anyway.”

Rainbow glared at the farm pony, before turning to Twilight, "What's going on?" The other bearers stayed quiet, wanting to hear what she had to say.

Twilight breathed slowly, “Jason, Imloch, and Emily just got back home last night, after four days of searching they managed to get Jason back, but he is a bit...different.” she said.

"How different could he be darling?" Rarity asked.

Twilight looked at them, “He is different, in the sense, that he no longer looks human, and looks a bit more changeling like then anypony would be normal with.”

Rainbow scoffed, "Changelings, Twilight? Those are just old mares tales."

Applejack looked at Rainbow, “So was tha mare in tha moon, lookit what we git fer not believin in em.” she said.

Rainbow opened her mouth to respond, only to be cut off as a loud crash came from behind them, a cloud of smoke obscuring the projectiles "GET THE FUCK AWAY FROM ME!" Jason's voice yelled.

“Oh my...” Fluttershy whispered, flying away from the smoke.

"NO!" A voice that Applejack and Twilight recognized as Thunder, "YOU ARE GOING TO STAND DOWN AND BE ARRESTED!"

“What are yall doin trying ta arrest Jason when yer off duty Thunder?” Applejack asked.

Twilight frowned, “Why did you come through the wall...” she wondered, staring at the hole.

The smoke cleared, revealing a surprising sight. Jason's hands were double bladed axes, and Thunder held a sword in his black magical aura, "Sorry Twi," Jason said, not taking his eyes off of Thunder, "But this asshole keeps trying to kill/arrest me so..."

“Ah dunno why he'd do tha, since he aint on duty ta begin with.” Applejack said, before turning to Rainbow Dash, “Told ya.”

Twilight groaned, facehoofing, “Oh horseapples, the string is coming out...” she said, looking at Jason's head.

Jason smirked, changing his hands back to normal. "You don't want me die on my way to wherever it is you take criminals."

Thunder growled, "Correct..." He muttered, capping his sword as our turned into a pen.

Jason blinked, looking at the blade, "Soooooo many multi universal crossovers..."

Twilight shook her head, “Wait, why are you arresting him?” she asked. “I thought you were off duty.”

"For aiding and abetting a known criminal to Equestria." He said, "And when a guard is off duty, he still has the right to arrest a felon."

“You don't have any proof though that he is helping Chrysalis, all you know is that he is part changeling, and no other proof. Does he act like he is being controlled? Does he act like he is under her whim? No, he is not either of those things, which means, no matter what he looks like, you have no right to arrest him, since you have no proof of either.” Twilight said, glaring at Thunder.

"Well..." Jason said, "Some changelings have their own minds, they aren't controlled by the queen per say, but they follow her anyway." He glared at Thunder, "That, my friends, doesn't mean I am being controlled. Chrysalis only changed 95% of me, the last five percent is what makes me, me. She can't control me, because humans aren't an equine race and the brains are different."

“Tha seems unnecessarily complicated.” Applejack muttered.

"No matter how much I don't like it, I am a changeling, and that means I know what went wrong, and how it did. I also can use telepathy, to an extent." He smiled, "I'm now a man of many talents."

Twilight looked at him her eyes widening slightly, before turning to Rarity, “I had a bit of an issue with sewing.” she whispered, “When this is over, or right now, since he can't be arrested legally, can you help me fix the sewing?”

Rarity blinked, "Of course darling, but sew what?" Twilight pointed to Jason’s head, the sloppy sewing work evident from the string coming loose from his recent attack from Thunder. "Ah." She said, paling slightly over her already white coat.

Jason stumbled, "Fuck..." He mumbled, holding onto a bookshelf, "This sucks.."

Rarity rushed towards him, pulling a needle and thread out of her mane, "Please sit still darling."

Twilight watched her for a second, before turning to Thunder a frown adorning her features, “Since you have no proof of him being controlled, or even working with Chrysalis, I think you have no jurisdiction to legally arrest him, and can kindly leave the library now.”

"Actually, Twi," Jason said, looking at her, "If I may interject," He turned to Thunder, "Bro, you almost kicked my ass nine ways to Sunday, and that. Is awesome!" He said, shocking everyone.

“What are ya talkin bout? Did he mess ya up more en ya are?” Applejack asked.

Twilight sighed, “This is why I am not qualified to be a doctor, I broke his brain...” she muttered.

"Are you kidding? Anyone who could kick my ass that hard is alright in my book." He paused, looking slightly embarrassed, "And besides, I could use a mentor..."

“What?!” Twilight exclaimed. “A mentor for what?”

Rarity sighed as she finished sewing his head back together, "This is as good as it's going to get," She said, patting his shoulder, "But you should really see a doctor."

Jason winced at Twilight's yell, "Well, yeah... I want to learn better fighting skills." He paused, "And magic, and flight. Even though I can't fly very well with these..." He said, unfurling his wings and showing the holes, his wings looking a bit shredded, "Wicked blade."

Fluttershy looked at his wings, coming forward from her hiding place, “Oh, that must hurt a lot...I could bandage that up for you...” she said.

Jason smiled, "Thanks Flutters." He said gratefully.

Fluttershy smiled, “It doesn't look much different from any other animals wings, it wouldn't be too hard to do.” she said.

He smiled again, before turning to Thunder, "Could you tutor me on the ways of the blade."

Thunder stared at him, "You, the person I nearly killed, want me, a guard who would arrest you if you showed the slightest hint of being a saboteur, to teach you how to use a blade?"

Jason nodded, "Sums it about up, yeah."

Applejack frowned, “That don't make ah lick ah sense.” she said.

"What's the fun in making sense?" He asked, "I'm n7ot going to pretend I'm the same Jason that was kidnapped, I have certainly changed in many ways, more than one."

“Yeah...ah spose...” Applejack said, frowning.

Thunder kept staring at him, "Alright... I'll train you... But you slip up once, I won't hesitate to arrest you."

Jason nodded, "Thanks mate, I'm sure we'll be friends by the end of the month."

Thunder blinked, "I just tried to kill you, as I said before, and you think we could be friends?"

Jason nodded, "Yeah, and, for the record, you didn't even come close to killing me." He smirked, turning his face into a dragon's, "I can turn into a full blown dragon, I just don't like to, a bit unfair to you, especially since your magic sword couldn't pierce my dragon hide duster. Try to cut the scales." He said, "Can't do it. "

Twilight sighed, “Please, just stop before you guys end up hurting the library more.” she turned to her friends, “You girls can go now, I don't have anything else to tell you.” she said. The girls started heading out, albeit hesitantly.

Jason turned to Rainbow Dash, stopping her as the others left, "Actually, could you come with me Rainbow?" He asked her, "There's someone you need to talk to."

Jason stood outside the entrance to the cave, Rainbow Dash next to him. "Are you ready for this?"

“I flew up the whole way of this huge mountain, If I'm up here for some dumb reason, I will not be happy.” Rainbow growled.

Jason sighed, "The griffon I love is inside, and you and her know each other very well." He said.

“Used to.” Rainbow said.

Jason grumbled angrily, "Look, you two are best friends, and I've seen too many friends broken apart, usually by stupid reasons to let it happen to others."

Rainbow looked at him as she landed on the platform like earth, “So, what are you saying?”

Jason sighed, "I'm saying, I don't want you two mad at each other. I want you two to be friends, at the very least, friendly to each other."

“You know, a cave isn't soundproof,” Gilda said, walking out of the cave, “Very much the opposite of soundproof actually.”

Jason smiled, walking over, "Sorry about that, I'm guessing you heard everything?"

“Yes, because it echoed.” Gilda said, looking at Rainbow, “And as I said before, I accepted the fact we had grown apart a long time ago.” she said.

"Well I didn't." Jason said, his smile turned into a frown, "As I said before, I've seen too many friends been broken apart to do nothing."

Gilda sighed, “Whatever.” she said, turning to go back into the cave.

“Gilda wait,” Rainbow said. She turned and looked over her shoulder, “I still want to be your friend, even if you did hurt my other friends, but you're right, it has been a long time since we had seen each other, it can't work.” she said.

Gilda stared at her, “And what are you planning to do?”

Rainbow smiled, and flew over to her, “Get to know the new Gilda, start all over like we just met, sound cool?” she asked.

Gilda shrugged, “Sounds good, I guess.”

Jason smiled, watching as the newly reunited friends walked into the cave, smiling as they talked. Jason moved to go back to town, before pausing at the cliff face. He blinked, before letting out a long, drawn out groan, "Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck!" He looked towards his bandaged wings, "This suuuuuuuuucks!"

chapter 11

Thunder strode through the town, smiling at seeing Trixie’s caravan gone. “Good riddance.” He said with finality, before continuing down the path to his motel room. He gave a nod to the owner of the motel, a stallion named Filthy Rich. Filthy didn’t manage the motel, but he did go down to it every once and a while to check how it was doing. “Ah, hello Mr. Quill, I trust everything is going alright?” Filthy asked, giving him a warm smile.

Thunder smiled back, “Very good Mr. Rich, thank you.” Thunder liked Filthy Rich. Unlike most of the rich ponies from Canterlot, who only cared about money, cutting corners and cheating ponies, Mr. Rich was a good stallion. While he did seek a profit, like all business owners, Mr. Rich cared for the people he employed, giving them bonuses when he could, raises, and days off when they needed it. “I met Jason Schmidt today, the Human?”

Filthy looked happy to learn that, “Oh that’s wonderful, I’ve only met Mr. Schmidt a couple of times since he has lived here, but he seemed like a nice chap. It was horrible to learn that he was foalnapped, what happened to him?”

Thunder hesitated, “It’s not my place to say. He’ll come back fully to town when he is ready I suppose, but he is staying in that cave that the dragon was staying in a couple days ago.”

Mr. Rich nodded, “I understand, Diamond Tiara needs to be picked up from school soon, she’ll be so excited to know that Jason is back, they became friends over Star Mares, so I must be going.”

Thunder nodded back, a smile on his face, “Alright, have a nice day Mr. Rich.” He said, smiling as he walked up stairs, Mr. Rich walking out the door.

Diamond sat against a tree, a sad frown on her face. “Come on Diamond, cheer up.” One of her best friends, Silver Spoon said, coming up to her, “You’ve been in a mope for a few days, Jason’ll be back soon, trust me.”

Three more ponies came up, Sweetie Belle, Applebloom and Scootaloo, “Yeah, Emily and Imloch are looking really hard for him, he’ll be back in no time.” Sweetie Belle said giving her a comforting smile.

Apple Bloom smiled at her, “Don't ya worry, they're probably comin back as we speak an will greet us later.” She said.

“Yeah, couldn't have gone far, otherwise Rainbow would have went for him too.” Scootaloo said.

Diamond’s sad frown turned into a small smile, “Thanks, you’re right, I’m probably in a mope for no reason.” She said, getting up and hugging them.

“Diamond?” Filthy Rich called from the school gate, “Where are you sweetheart?”

“Over here daddy!” She said, extracting herself from the hug.

“Diamond, I have great news for you!” Her father said, “Jason is back!”

“Ah told ya they would be back as we speak.” Applebloom said.

Diamond froze, her eyes widening as she let out a very Pinkie-esc gasp, “Really!?” She squealed, her face a picture of pure and utter joy, “Where is he!?

“He’s outside of town,” Her father replied, “In the mountain where the dragon was.” He gave them each a stern look, “Now, I think something happened to him while he was away, so he’s not ready to come into town. I don’t want you to climb up there and bother him, am I clear?”

“Yes.” Each of the fillies said, a look of pure innocence on their faces, and if one looked closely, they could see the faint outline of a halo over each and every one of their heads.

“Good, now are you ready to go sweetheart?” Filthy asked his daughter.

“Actually daddy, we were kind of wondering if we could hang out at Sweet Apple Acres today?” She asked sweetly, shooting a subtle glance over to the others, which asked, “Please say yes.”

“What? But I, Ow!” Scootaloo groaned, glaring at Sweetie Belle, “I mean, yeah, we were going to go there, and not having Diamond wouldn't be cool...” she said, Applebloom stared at them.

“Well… Alright, will I be picking you up at the regular time?” Filthy asked, to which the fillies nodded, “I’ll see you later Diamond,” He kissed her on the forehead and walked away, leaving the fillies alone in the schoolyard.

“What was that all about Diamond?” Spoon asked her, “Why are we going to Applebloom’s place?”

Applebloom frowned, “Ah love havin yall visitin mah home, but ah thought ya were goin home with yer dad today...”

Diamond turned to them, a gleeful smile on her face, “I’m sorry about putting you on the spot like that Applebloom, but I needed an excuse so that my dad couldn’t bring me home.”

Sweetie stared at her, realization becoming evident on her face, “You’re going up the mountain, aren’t you!?”

“That sounds awesome!” Scootaloo exclaimed, “Mountain climbing cutie marks.”

Applebloom frowned, “So ya lied fer both things? Ah don't like lying ta ponies, and it seems like it be mighty hard ta climb up that.”

Diamond looked guiltily towards Applebloom, “Sorry Bloom, but I have to see him. He’s my Star Mares buddy.”

Sweetie stared at her still, “You’re going to climb a mountain that a dragon was living in not four days ago!? ARE YOU MAD!?” She screeched, her normally squeaky voice louder than normal.

Scootaloo rolled her eyes, “No, she isn't mad, she’s cool! Shes doing something that I thought only Rainbow Dash would do!” she hoof bumped Diamond, “I'm with you.”

“Well, since Jason is up there right now, It’s obvious that he did it,” Silver Spoon said, earning a glare from Scootaloo, “But I’m with you too.”

“Ah don think this is right, its dishonest an we kin get inta trouble fer disobeyin yer dad and trying ta climb somethin like that...” Applebloom said.

“Applebloom,” Diamond began, “There are some things, that are worth getting in trouble for. Seeing Jason is one of those things, at least to me.” Her voice took a desperate tone, “What would you do if Applejack and Big Mac vanished, and you had no Idea what happened to them or when they would be back?” She asked Applebloom.

Applebloom looked at the ground, “Ahd probably be lookin fer em, and might also try an see em if they were found...”

Diamond nodded, “Exactly, Jason is like a big brother to me, and I need to see him again.”

Applebloom sighed, “Alright, fine, ah guess, let's go an see ‘im.”

Diamond squee’d, wrapping her hooves around Applebloom, “Thank you!”

“Yer welcome...” Applebloom said, hugging her back awkwardly.

“Lets go!” Diamond said excitedly, scrabbling towards the mountain.

“See ya Gilda!” Rainbow said, flying into the sky.

Jason sighed, glancing towards his wings, “I really wish Thunder hadn’t done that…” He grumbled.

Gilda looked at him, “Well, it was either him do that, or him be worried you were some sort of invader trying to kill ponies here. It was probably the only way he could think to keep you out of the sky so he could get you.” she shrugged, leaving the entrance of the cave and going over to him, “They can probably fix it themselves.”

Jason sighed, “Yeah, probably… It sucks not being able to fly though.” He said, turning to her, “I’m gonna try to change my shape into something more normal.” He said, closing his eyes. A green flame washed over him, his grey skin turning back to normal human color, and his eyes turning a more normal green. His hair remained as a mohawk, but it turned the same color as it was originally, a very dirty blond, almost brown. “Glad to see that worked.” He said.

“If you can turn human, does that mean you can turn into a griffon, or a pony?” Gilda asked.

Jason blinked, “I didn’t think of that.” He said, closing his eyes again. He flashed green again, and a deep grey griffon stood in front of Gilda, his wing-tips were a bright green, the same of his eyes, and the feathers over his eyes were a bright blue. “I’m a griffon.” Jason said blankly.

Gilda walked over and circled around him to look at his body, “Yes, you are. For a first time as one, you did a good job.” she said.

“Good…” He said, before closing his eyes again. His body was bathed in green flames again, and Jason turned into a deep purple earth pony, taller and bigger than big mac, with bright gold eyes, and a black mane and tail, which was styled into a ponytail. “And Pony Form is go.” He said.

Gilda looked at him, “Could be better honestly.” she said.

Jason gave her an indignant look, “What did I do wrong?!”

“You look like one of those hippy ponies.” Gilda said, rolling her eye, using her tail to move his ponytail.

“You mean my hairstyle?: He said blankly, “It’s called a ponytail, and if you don’t like it…” He trailed off, his mane and tail flashing green as they became slicked back, “I can change it.”

Gilda looked at him, “Thats good, anyway...I call that huge alcove over there!” she said, flying past him into the hole in the cave wall. “So many gems this stupid dragon had...” she muttered, pushing out a giant ruby, which was at least the size of a normal pony, and dropped it onto the floor.

“Holy Shit…” He gaped at the ruby, his form turning to a normal humans, “How much is in there?!”

Gildas groan echoed from inside the hole, “That ruby, and a few other smaller things. This isn't really a tunnel, so he couldn't have gotten much.” her head came out of the darkness of the area, “I think he got most of his horde anyway, unless he has any other hidy holes.”

A grin came across Jason’s face, “Who’s up for a treasure hunt?”

Gilda looked back into the darkness of her new room, “Not right now, kinda want to like...actually get comfortable with this thing. Still need some light.” she muttered, going back into it.

Jason sighed, “Can’t get lights without money, can’t get money without one, a job, or two, things to sell. Why don’t we find stuff to sell.”

“Notice; giant ruby.” Gildas voice said from the darkness. “You aren't happy with that, what the hell.”

“All I’m sayin is that we should look for as much as we can, as soon as we can.” He said, before freezing as a gasp came from the entrance.

A hesitant voice came from the entrance, “J-Jason?” Diamond Tiara’s voice asked, “I-is that you?”

Diamond Tiara stared defiantly at the top of the mountain, “I shall not be deterred!” She yelled.

“Seriously?” Applebloom asked incredulously, “Tha mountain ya are in front of is steep, ah dunno how ma sister an her friends even got up there ta begin with.”

Diamond pointed to a staircase on one side of the mountain, “I think that they would go up that.” She deadpanned.

Scootaloo stared at it, “No way, Rainbow never said there was a staircase.”

Applebloom frowned, “Who puts ah staircase on ah mountain?” she wondered.

Silver stared, “Some kind of old culture?” She suggested.

“Whoever put it, we can thank them later!” Diamond cried, charging up the stairs.

“That is a crazy filly…” Sweetie muttered, racing after her with everyone else.

“Ahm startin ta think this is ah bad idea again...” Applebloom muttered.

“How… Many… Stairs… Are… There!?” Silver shouted between pants, “This… Is… Getting… Bucking… Rediculus!”

“Yeah...this is sort of getting dumb.” Scootaloo sighed, jumping from stair to stair.

Applebloom seemed to be the best off, “We might be almost there.”

“Thank Celestia!” Sweetie cried, throwing her hooves in the air.

“Ah said might. Ah dunno if thas a curve ta the stairs up ahead, er tha end.” Applebloom said.

“ONWARDS!” Diamond yelled, charging up the stairs, before stopping short at the very top.

“What’s wrong Diamond?” Silver asked.

Diamond didn’t respond for a moment, “What if my dad was wrong?” She mumbled, “What if he’s not here, and we did all of this for nothing?”

“Ill hit you.” Scootaloo threatened.

Sweetie Belle slugged Scootaloo in the shoulder at her threat, “We’re still your friends, and you were desperate to see him.”

Scootaloo rubbed her shoulder, “Yeah, that too.” She muttered.

“We got here now, might as well jus go an see if yer dad was right.” Applebloom said.

Diamond nodded mutely, walking up the final stair and looking into the cave, seeing a being that made her heart soar, “J-Jason?” She asked, her voice trembling, “I-is that you?”

Jason turned, his face holding a disbelieving look, “Diamond?” He asked, “Silver Spoon? Scootaloo? Applebloom? Sweetie Belle? What are you doing here!?”

“Who?” Gilda asked, coming out of the hole, staring at the fillies standing at the entrance, “Those fillies got guts to walk up a mountain...”

“T-there are stairs…” Silver Spoon stammered, frightened at the sight of the griffon.

Scootaloo nodded, sighing, “Yeah...it sucks.”

Jason blinked, “Stairs, leading up a mountain? Why am I thinking this is not a normal mountain, or even a normal Dragon hoard…”

“Looks normal to me.” Gilda said, letting go of a small gem in her tail, letting it hit the floor.

Jason shook his head, before turning back to Diamond, a small smile on his face, “Are you alright?” He asked.

Diamond stared at him, before her eyes broke out in tears as she charged him, glomping him with a huge tackle hug, “I-I was s-so wo-worried!” She cried, “You had ju-just vanished, a-and no-nopony knew where yo-you had go-gone.”

Gilda looked down at Diamond, and the other fillies, before looking at Jason, “Im guessing these guys are some more of your friends.” She stated.

Jason smiled, “Yeah, me and Diamond became friends over Star Mares, and she introduced me to Silver Spoon. Sweetie Belle, the white unicorn is the sister of Rarity, Applebloom is the sister of Applejack, and Scootaloo is the adopted sister of Rainbow Dash.” Jason explained, hugging the crying Diamond tighter.

Scootaloo shrugged, “As close to a sister as I can get with parents who work all the time.” she said.

Gilda shrugged, “Alright, nice meeting you guys. Im going to get the rest of these gems out of my room.” she said as she went back into the alcove.

Jason shrugged, before looking back to Diamond, who had stopped fully crying, “Are you alright now?” He asked softly.

Diamond nodded shakily, “Y-yeah… but why didn’t you come back to town?” She asked him, “You look fine, why didn’t you go to your tower?”

“Applejack told me for’ tha some ponies after getting foalnapped an saved, liked ta be alone by themselves. Maybe hes jus doin that?” Applebloom suggested.

Jason shook his head, “That… isn’t it Applebloom.” He sighed, placing Diamond down on the ground before brightening, “Anyway, is anyone up for a treasure hunt?” He asked them, “This cave used to be a dragon’s hoard, and all we could find was a HUGE ruby, and some smaller ones.” He gestured towards the pony sized ruby, “But I’m sure there is tons more, I just need some help from some brave explorers like yourselves.”

Scootaloo smiled, “Totally!” she exclaimed, her wings buzzing.

Diamond nodded excitedly, “Course we will!” She said, “Who’s with us!?” She cried.

Applebloom hesitated, and looked at Jason, “Can ya make it so we don't git inta trouble fer bein here?” she asked.

Jason opened his mouth, before closing it, “You’re not supposed to be here?” He asked them.

Diamond looked highly guilty, “No… We aren’t. My daddy told me that you were back, and, even though he said not to bother you, I just had to see you.”

Jason sighed, “Well, since I can’t do anything about things you’ve already done, I will do my best to make sure that you won’t get in trouble.”

Applebloom looked relieved, “Thank ya...” she said.

“Lets go treasure hunting! One of us might get a cutie mark for it.” Scootaloo exclaimed.

Jason smirked, “Alright! Gilda, want to come with us?” He called into the alcove.

“I’m not interested in watching some chicks, I'll pass.” Gilda said.

Jason shrugged, “Alright, you fillies ready to go?”

“Yeah!” Scootaloo exclaimed.

“I guess so…” Sweetie said, still unsure about it, “What if we find something dangerous down there?”

Scootaloo got up on her back hooves and started punching the air with her forehooves like rainbow, “We’ll fight it!”

Jason glanced at Scootaloo, “We’ll do our best to avoid any danger, if something bad happens, I want you to run.”

Scootaloo got back on her hooves and sighed, “Fine...”

Jason patted her lightly on the head, “Good girl, now, onwards!” He yelled, striding down the cave tunnel, his duster flapping slightly.

Filthy Rich was in his office, working on some papers, when a feeling of dread hit him. He felt like something bad was going to happen to Diamond. “I should go check to make sure she’s alright…” He mumbled to himself, getting out of his chair and walking out of his office.

“Is everything alright Mr. Rich?” His secretary asked him as he walked past.

“I hope so…” He whispered, before turning to her briefly, “You may have the rest of the day off, spend some time with your daughter,” He smiled briefly.

The mare smiled, “Thank you sir.” She said gratefully. Filthy strode out of the building and went towards the orchard owned by the Apple family.

Applejack bumped into him when they were in the middle of the town, “Mighty sorry Mr. Rich, how are ya?” she asked, looking around.

He smiled, “Good, thank you, but I have a question to ask you. Is everything alright with Diamond?” He asked her.

Applejack frowned, “Ah was wonderin tha same bout Applebloom. Ah assumed tha she was with ya, an if not you, then Rarity. Ah guess ah got ma answer.” she said.

Rich frowned, “She told me that she and her friends were going to Sweet Apple Acres to…” He trailed off, “Oh no…”

Applejack looked at him, “Ah haven't seen em, why do ya think they would lie bout bein at tha farm?” She asked.

“Jason, the human, he’s back in town, and he and Diamond were best friends, I told her where he was…” He groaned, “I told her not to go, but she did it anyway, and got her friends to help her…”

Applejack's eyes widened, “They went ta see Jason? Aw shoot...” She muttered.

“We have to go after them.” He said, “That mountain is dangerous, they could get seriously hurt.”

Applejack nodded, “Went up tha mountain once, ah know tha way up it without gettin hurt, ahll lead ya up there.” She said.

Filthy Rich nodded, “Let's go!” He said, going towards the mountain as fast as he could go.

“It’s pretty dark in here…” Sweetie mumbled, her eyes darting around, trying to see something.

Applebloom nodded in the darkness, “Ah agree...ah don like it.” she said.

Scootaloo laughed with forced bravado, “It isn't...that bad.”

SIlver huddled closer to Diamond, “A-are you sure this was a good idea?” She asked her.

Diamond looked up at Jason, “Are you sure anything is down here?”

Jason shrugged, “No idea to be honest. This is more me hoping and finding something hopefully.”

“Thas ah...great reason...” Applebloom said doubtfully.

“I know it’s a bad reason, but I can promise you that I won’t let anything happen to you.” Jason said.

“Ow!” Scootaloo yelled, bumping into something.

The something growled, a pair of green eyes appearing as a scratching sound emanated from in front of them. “Shit.” Jason muttered, yanking Scootaloo back.

“What the hay is that?!” Scootaloo exclaimed.

‘Well since I can only hear it, I would say something insectoid.” Jason said, “And big…” He said, about to yell run as a loud crash echoed behind them, “Crap!” He yelled, whipping around to see a giant boulder blocking their route.

“Ah shoot.” Applebloom said, “How kin we git outta here now?!” she exclaimed.

“Girls,” Jason said, urgency in his voice, “I am about to do something really stupid, so please, do not scream.” His eyes flashed green in the darkness, his body glowing green, lighting up an immediate area around him as green flames washed over his entire body, his wings appearing and his skin turning dark grey as his horn grew. The fillies were holding each other, and when they saw the green flames and him changing, they screamed, despite him telling them not to. Jason winced as they screamed, before turning back to the five insectoid creatures. His eyes widened as he recognized what they were, “Charus!?” He exclaimed, “This isn’t Skyrim!”

The Charus charged him, mandibles chomping greedily, “SHIT!” He yelped, sidestepping as it rushed past him, it’s head exploding as it impacted the wall. “This’ll be a challenge…” He muttered, turning his right arm into a circular saw and the other into a shield like shape. He rushed one of the other Charus, blocking it’s mandibles with his shield. “Not today!” He smirked, rotating the saw at a high speed as he cut into it’s side, a fluorescent blue goo coming out of it. “Gross…” He muttered as it covered him. Pulling the saw out of its side, he turned to another one, it’s eyes still flashing. “Come and get me.” He growled, the Charus charging him and tackling him to the floor.

As the Charus and Jason fought, the other three surrounded the fillies, mandibles clacking and claws screeching. Scootaloo shivered, “I changed my mind, I don't want to fight them...” she said.

“Ah don think ah kin buck em, they aint small enough, an don look that soft.” Applebloom said, hugging the others.

Diamond hugged her back, “What are they?” She whispered.

They crept closer, eyes glinting evilly, “GET AWAY FROM THEM!” Jason’s voice roared as he smashed into them, his body seemingly made out of stone. His right hand changed from a saw to a warhammer shape, while his other changed into a bladed whip. As the three Charus regained their balance, one of them was killed as a giant stone smashed into it’s face. The other one gained countless lacerations as the whip slashed it’s body to bits. It gained length as it encompassed the beast. He gave the slightest tug and the beast fell apart. “Are you alright?” He asked turning to the fillies.

“Ah-ah think so...” Applebloom said as Scootaloo let go of the hug, and looked around.

Jason turned to Diamond, “And you?”

Diamond nodded shakily, “Y-yeah… I think so…”

Silver stared at him, “What the buck was that!?” She screeched.

Jason didn’t respond, instead throwing himself in front of the fillies as the final Charus’s mandibles pierced his stony chest. His eyes drifted downwards as the stone disappeared from his body, replaced with his black chitin. The monstrous insectoid slipped backwards, Jason's body falling flat on his face.

The Charus skirted forwards, it's mandibles screeching.

Sweetie shivered at the sound, "What do we do now?" She asked the group.

"Scream?" Silver said, horrified at the sight of Jason impaled.

“Yeah.” Scootaloo said, as they started screaming.

"Can you turn it down?" Jason's voice asked, as the Charus's head exploded, a giant spiked ball taking its place. "This guy has a splitting headache." He smirked, his hand forming again.

“Howd ya do tha?” Applebloom asked.

Jason looked uncomfortable for a moment, "When I was captured, the Queen of one of the larger changeling hives, Queen Chrysalis, wanted to see if her changeling morphing abilities would work on things other than equines..." He trailed off, his eyes widening, "Oh fuck..." He whispered.

Diamond's eyes widened in horror, before narrowing in anger, "She did what!?"

Scootaloo looked at her, in the dim light of the dark cave, “Apparently, she made him into a changeling.” she said, rolling her eyes.

"And that's not the worst of it..." Jason said, beginning to panic.

“A-are ya ok?” Applebloom asked.

"No, I'm not. Think about it, a changeling queen wants to expand her army, adding new and more powerful creatures." Jason said, "What's the most logical reason she would want to do that?"

“Uh...ta git more ponies under her rule?” Applebloom guessed.

“To have more followers?” Scootaloo guessed.

"World domination..." Silver whispered, her eyes widening under her glasses.

Jason nodded, "Exactly. Scoots, Applebloom, you're both right, but her goal is to take over the world."

Applebloom looked at the ground, before lifting her head and looking around the dark cave, “Ah wanna go home now...”

"We have to go deeper..." Jason said, "There is a breeze, very slight, and a slight scent of..." He paused, "Oil?" He shook his head, "Whatever it is, it seems like the only way to go."

“Lets go then!” Scootaloo exclaimed, running the way he had said.

Jason sighed, "She's never going to learn is she?"

At the entrance of the cave, illuminated by the light of the moon, a bipedal creature stood on the rock. Its eyes glowed green as it looked in, its teeth and claws sharp, wood covering its whole body, wooden ears on top of its short hair. It looked into the cave for a few minutes, before it moved, and disappeared entirely from the mountain, as it went back to Ponyville.

Chapter 12

The darkness was oppressive as Jason, Silver Spoon, Diamond Tiara, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo walked through the cave, the five fillies staying as close to Jason as they could.

Jason kept moving forwards, his changeling eyes allowing him easy sight in the darkness, something he was grateful for. "OW!" Scootaloo screeched, "THAT'S MY TAIL!!" everypony winced at the sudden echo of her cry.

"Sorry..." Sweetie Belle muttered apologetically.

Not so much for the girls, "I can't sense anything else, but that doesn't mean there isn't anything here, so can we please try to be quiet?" Jason sighed, putting a hand to his head.

"Sorry," The girls said at the same time.

Jason didn't respond, instead holding his hand up, causing the fillies to stop short. He closed his eyes, seemingly concentrating on something. "Can you hear that?" He asked softly, "That metallic clanging sound?"

"A-ah think ah can..." Applebloom said softly, her ears twitching slightly.

"I can't hear anything, but something reeks." Scootaloo said, her nose scrunching in disgust.

"Oil..." Jason murmured, his eyes opening, "Metal clanging... We need to keep moving." He said to the fillies as he moved forwards, the fillies following him closely.

They walked in relative silence, the only sound made that of the girls hoof-falls on the rock, and the now audible sound of metal against metal, until one of the fillies spoke. "Is it me," Diamond said, "Or is it getting brighter?"

The group looked around, surprised that they could see. "Where's this light coming from?" Silver Spoon wondered, gaining shrugs from the others.

"This can't be right..." Jason muttered, walking around a corner, freezing at the sight of a circular object, a foot in diameter on the smooth stone wall, a big difference from the rocky walls of the cave. It was raised in the center, maybe six inches high. Every two inches, a two inch strip of a bronze like material ran along the surface, leaving six two inch strips bare.

Inside the circle was a glowing green gem, which lit up the entire hallway with the help of seven others, four along each side, each five feet apart. At the end of the hallway, a large door, taller than Jason by a good five or six feet, made out of a similar material as the wall lights, and very ornately decorated. "The Dwemer..." Jason whispered.

The five fillies turned the corner and froze at the strange sight. "What is this?" Diamond asked, confused at why there was a carved hallway in the middle of a mountain.

"The Dwemer came here?" Jason said in disbelief, "Of all the places in the multiverse, and the Dwemer came here?!"

"What's going on Jason?" Sweetie Belle asked, a slight hint of fear in her voice.

"The Dwemer, masters of technology, who vanished millennia ago, from the world of Nirn." Jason said softly, beginning to walk forwards. The fillies followed him as he continued speaking, "None knew where they had vanished, or why they left. Some say they took to the stars, others say they were hunted by the other races of nirn, but none were certain..." He stopped as he reached the door. "Maybe they traveled the multiverse, and ended up here?"

Applebloom stared at Jason, confusion clear in her eyes, "How do you know about the Dwem-whatsits?"

Jason smirked, "I've played enough Skyrim to recognize this décor," He said as he opened the door.

Applejack and Filthy Rich raced towards the mountain, Luna's moon lighting their path. "We're almost there!" Applejack yelled back to the stallion.

They had been running at the same pace since they had started in late evening, and it was starting to take it's toll on Filthy Rich. "Excellent..." He wheezed, sweat pouring down his muzzle.

Applejack looked back to the stallion, "We can slow down a mite, Jason can take care of himself and the fillies."

Mr. Rich shook his head, throwing some of the sweat off of his muzzle, "Can't... Do that..." He panted, "Diamond... might be... In trouble..." He pumped his legs harder, overtaking Applejack slightly as they reached the base of the mountain.

They stopped for a moment at the base, both of them looking around as they heard a screech from above. "What in tarnation?" Applejack exclaimed as a gryphon dove down from above, her golden eyes narrowing as she spotted them.

The gryphon landed with a loud thud, her purple feathers low over her eyes, "Where's Jason?" Gilda snarled at them, "He went into the mountain hours ago and he hasn't come back yet."

Rich and Applejack glanced at each other, worry etched onto their faces, "Were some fillies with him?" Applejack asked her, "A pink one with a tiara and a yellow one with a red bow in her mane?"

Gilda nodded, her eyes softening slightly, "And a white unicorn, an orange Pegasus, and a grey earth pony wearing pearls."

"Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Silver Spoon..." Filthy Rich said softly, before turning to Gilda, "Where did they go? Can you show us?"

Gilda nodded, pointing toward one side of the mountain, "The fillies said there was a staircase over there. It should be easier to get up the mountain that way." Her wings opened up as she shot into the air.

Filthy Rich glanced at Applejack, one eyebrow raised, "Staircase?" He asked her, "Is that how you got up the mountain to face the dragon?"

Applejack shook her head, "No, ah didn't even know there was one." She gave a shrug, "Let's keep moving." Her and Rich began to climb the staircase.

Jason gazed in wonder at the Dwemer ruin, "This is incredible... I've wanted to see something like this since I raided my first Dwemer ruin in Skyrim..." He said softly to himself, before jumping as a piston pumped up next to him, "Forgot about those..." He muttered as the fillies crowded around him.

Scootaloo was gazing around in wonder, her gaze finally locking on a circular platform with a lever in the middle. There were four gears, each an equal distance away from the others. On the other side if the gears were four pieces of metal with ridges cut into them. "Jason," Scootaloo asked, pointing at the strange contraption, "What is that?"

Jason turned to where she was pointing and a small smile came to his face, "That would be the exit lift... If I'm right, and I usually am about this kind of thing, that should take you up to the surface." He said, before freezing at hearing metal clanging and steam hissing, "You need to go, now!" He exclaimed, reaching out towards a metal pipe and his body turning into the metal.

A tall metal monster lumbered into view, the same type of metal that Jason's body was made out of currently. One hand was in the shape of a giant war hammer, while the other was a five foot long blade. "What is that?!" Sweetie Belle screamed, the fillies gathering around Jason.

"Dwemer security guard, top rank, centurion." Jason said, "The Dwemer made them to guard these cities. Get to the lift, NOW!" He roared, making a spear out of his right hand and a shield out of hours left.

The fillies screamed as the centurion slammed his war hammer into Jason's shield. "Run!" Silver Spoon screeched, all five fillies getting onto the lift. "Pull the bucking lever!" She yelled as the centurion used his sword to break Jason's spear, causing him to roar in pain.

"JASON!!!" Diamond screamed as Applebloom kicked the lever with all her strength, sending the lift screaming upwards.

Jason changed his broken spear back into a hand, which was missing the top halves of his fingers, "Fuck you bitch..." He growled, green blood pouring down them. "These had better heal..."

The centurion said nothing, only drawing his right arm back for another smash. "Not today!" Jason yelled, jumping backwards and spewing flames out of his hands.

The flames washed over the centurion, heating up the metal but doing no damage. The metal monstrosity slammed Jason with its hammer, sending him into a pipe, the breath whooshing out of his lungs.

Jason groaned in pain, curled up on the floor, blood pouring out of his chest. "Note to self..." He muttered, "Using flames against a centurion is a really bad idea."

The centurion stood over Jason, his blade raised over Jason's broken body. As the blade began to descend however, Jason heard a loud cry, "WWWWRRRRRRRRRRYYYYYYYYY!!!!!" A tan and white blur flew down the lift shaft and slammed into the centurion, making it stumble and fall backwards into a large machine.

"Jason!!" He heard Gilda's voice cry out, before her soft fur and feathers enveloping him, "Please tell me you're alright." She whimpered, tears falling onto his shoulder.

"What are you doing here?" Jason managed to whisper to her, "How did you know where I was?"

She sniffed, more tears falling into his shoulder, "The fillies came up from a lift in my alcove. The floor opened and they came rushing out, screaming about a metal monster." She sniffed again, "So I rushed down and came to help." Gilda whimpered as she hugged him tighter.

Jason wrapped his arms around his lover, doing his best to comfort her, "Thank you... I would have died is you didn't help-" A loud bang came from the machine that the centurion landed on, the machine beginning to smoke. "You need to get out of here..." Jason said weakly, "You can't carry me, and I'm not strong enough to move..." He fell silent as Gilda pressed her beak against his lips, staying like that for a full minute, before pulling away slowly, "I'm not leaving you again..." She said softly, pulling him close.

Jason could only smile as he held her close, the machine making a loud bang as it exploded, surrounding the two with a bright green light.

Prologue

Emily was really annoyed, her mom and dad were banning her from playing soccer unless she got better grades in school, and said she needed a tutor. She didn't get it, it was just history, she knew already about the dictators and the wars, she didn't see what else there was to it besides that. They had kept their threat though, and had banned her from soccer until she got her grade up. This is why she was waiting at a table in the study hall for the tutor she was assigned.

Jason was fairly annoyed. He had been called in for an “emergency” Tutoring session, which was probably going to last most of the year. One of the School’s Star sports players, most likely one of the football jocks who mocked him. While he was angry at being called away from his games, he relished in the irony of those who had mocked him now whining for his help. Jason opened the door and spotted his charge, and It was not who he expected.

The person waiting at the table for him was a girl, She had really short brown hair, her skin was tanned from the sun, and her bored looking eyes were an emerald green. She looked like she could do some damage to him, with how she looked more athletic than normal.

Jason sighed with resignation and walked over, putting on his most polite demeanor as he sat down, “Hello, My name is Jason Schmidt, and I’m going to be your tutor for the foreseeable future.”

The girl looked at him, “Good on ya. I’m not dumb, I just need help with history, I don't need to be told that i’m going to be tutored for most of the semester.” she said, rolling her eyes, leaning back in the chair, “Names Emily.”

Jason sighed, “Just trying to be bloody polite, I never said you were dumb…” He opened his history book, “Let’s begin at page 345, the War of 1812,”

Emily sighed, “All of history is pretty much war...war and death and whatever.” she muttered, opening her own and looking at the text.

To Emily’s surprise, Jason chuckled, “Yeah, history sucks, well, for the most part. Even wars, as horrible as it is, has it’s advantages. Huge medical advances, which save people in war as well as peace.”

Emily grumbled, “Still kills thousands of people.” looking at the book, “Just teach me why I should care about past wars so I can pass this class.”

Jason looked up from the book, an eyebrow raised, “Why should you care? Those who fail to remember the past, are doomed to repeat it.”

Emily looked up at him, “Ever hear the expression history repeats itself? Its going to repeat anyway.”

Jason shrugged, “Maybe, maybe not,” He paused in his reading, before flipping through the book, “It is really that hard to find something about history that did good things without a completely horrible side?” He groaned.

Emily smirked, “Maybe the second world war wouldn't have happened if Hitler got loved for his work or something.” she shrugged.

Jason raised an eyebrow, “Not many people know or even care that Hitler was a painter, all they focus on was his dark side, as it were.”

“I thought it was funny that he went batshit crazy because of his paintings.” Emily replied.

Jason smirked back, “Yeah, that is fairly hilarious.”

“Nice to see a history nut agree with that.” Emily said, smiling.

“History is actually my worst subject.” Jason snorted, “I prefer to deal with the future, new tech, fictional and real.”

Emily laughed, “Why are you a history tutor then? You might not help my grade at all.”

Jason’s smirk grew, “Because I still get an A in it, and while it is fun to learn at times, I still prefer to deal in the future.”

“One of those futuristic guys who watches sci fi all the time then. Better than a guy who is stuck in the past I guess.” Emily shrugged.

“Better believe it,” Jason’s smirk dropped, “You wouldn't believe how much flak I get for being a near Die-Hard Fan of Star Wars.” He muttered.

Emily chuckled, “I tried watching that before, not really interested, can’t keep track of what's going on.” she said, shrugging again, “Can we get on with the tutoring please?”

Jason nodded, “Yeah, sure.” He said, starting the tutoring session.

chapter 9

“Come one, come all, to see the Great and Powerful Trixie!” A light blue mare wearing the classic wizards hat and cape yelled, standing on her back hooves and throwing her front ones into the air, fireworks going on in the background, “The slayer of an Ursa Major!” The crowed cheered, save for Twilight, Spike and their friends, who were looking at Trixie with some annoyance, well, except Twilight, who was looking nervous at her friends saying what a braggart Trixie was.

“Having a talent isn't bad though, isn't it?” Twilight asked.

“I agree darling, unless you show it off like so.” Rarity said with a huff, raising her nose.

“Well, The Great and Powerful Trixie sees that we have some Neighsayers in the audience,” She said with disdain, “Would anypony like to try to prove that they are better than The Great and Powerful Trixie?” She says again, fireworks exploding behind her once more, along with a generous dollop of fanfare.

Applejack glared, “Thas it, ah can't stand no more ah this!” she jumped up onto the stage, producing a rope as Spike egged her on, “Can yer magical powers do this?” she asked, tying it to her tail as she proceeded to jump and spin around in the loop to the sound of a banjo, grabbing an apple off a tree with the lasso and eating it whole, before smirking at Trixie, “Top that Missy.”

Trixie smirked, and her hat glowed, floating off her head, “Oh ye of little talent, watch and be amazed of the magic of Trixie!” the rope Applejack had put down was surrounded in her horns purple glow, as she made the rope glide around Applejacks face, a snake charming song spell making her watch, before she was hogtied.

Rainbow had had enough, taking to the air and landing right in front of Trixie, “You can’t be showing off like that, that’s my job!” She exclaimed, speeding off. She raced around the windmill a couple of times, before flying upwards at an angle and making a hole in the clouds. After making a pose in front of the sun, she speeds down the hole she had made before, taking some of the water from the clouds as she landed back on the stage, moving just right as the sunlight refracted the water, creating a rainbow, “That’s why I’m called Rainbow Dash,” She smirked.

Trixie snorted, “When Trixie is through, the only thing they will call you is loser!” She said, her horn lighting up as the rainbow around Rainbow began to move spinning faster and faster around the increasingly dizzy Pegasus, who eventually started to stumble forwards. She smirked again, her horn glowing brighter as she shocked Rainbow in the flank with a bolt of lightning from a cloud she summoned.

Everypony laughed as Rainbow yelped, falling off the stage, “You think that’s funny?” A new voice asked softly, just loud enough for everyone to hear, causing everypony to turn around. A white coated Unicorn stallion with a black mohawk and tail and a strange symbol for a cutie mark stood next to a Light grey Pegasus, with a short mane and tail, colored yellow, his cutie mark more recognizable, a yellow star surrounded by a darker grey cloud behind it. Both of them wore saddle bags, the Unicorn’s was white with his Cutie Mark, the Pegasus’s was blue, with his cutie mark on it. They were both glaring at Trixie, the Unicorn’s eyes black, and the Pegasus’s brown. “You think it’s funny to hit someone when their back is turned?” He asked in the same soft tone.

“Yeah.” The pegasus said, blinking, “Wait, its bad, no. Im thinking of something else...” he muttered, looking at the ground as he thought.

Applejack looked at them after finally getting out of the rope, “Who are ya?” she asked, “Ah havent seen yall round ‘fore.” She said.

Twilight looked at the unicorn, thinking, “Do I know you from somewhere? You sort of look familiar...” she said.

The unicorn shook his head, “Don’t think so miss, lived in Canterlot all my life, joined the Royal guard since I was four, served directly under Captain Shining Armor directly.”

Twilight's eyes widened, “Oh, you were one of the younger recruits under my brothers command when I became Celestias student and he was on his first duty of caring for and training the foals that were in the guard program because of their parents!”

“If Trixie may interrupt,” The blue showmare said angrily, not happy about the attention being diverted from her, “Trixie wishes to know who the hay you are.”

“Lieutenant Thunder Quill, second in command under Captain Shining Armor, head guard of the solar guard.” he said proudly, levitating a Royal Guard badge, out of his saddle bags, “And you said you could slay an Ursa Major?” His eyes narrowed as he placed the badge back in his saddle bags.

Trixie looked slightly taken aback by that question on her abilities, “Well, yes, who else besides the Great and Powerful Trixie would save the town of Hoofington from the Ursa.” Her horn lit up, depicting a giant blue space bear. “When all was lost, the town of Hoofington turned to-”

“The Royal Guard.” Thunder said, his voice rising slightly, “A year ago, a battalion of Solar guardsmen was sent to Hoofington with reports about an Ursa Minor attacking it.” He said, placing special emphasis on minor, “I was part of that battalion, along with your brother,” He glanced towards Twilight, “You might remember that in a letter he sent to you.”

Twilight was silent for a minute as she thought, “I remember that a little bit...” She admitted.

“We reached the town, only to find it in ruins. The bear had been on a rampage, and most of the ponies in the town were dead, victims to the monster’s rage.” He sighed, “We tried to subdue the beast, but we were slaughtered. The monster took out half our battalion before we were able to defeat it. Some of my best friends were killed...” He fell silent as dry sobs racked his form.

The pegasus looked around, before he scooted closer to Thunder and put a leg around him, “Uh, its good now.”

Thunder eventually calmed down, glaring at Trixie as the pegasus let him go, “You were there that night, I remember you. You were hiding behind guards the entire time, and when we defeated the beast, you demanded special treatment, saying that you had defeated the beast. I remember you, because you said that the guards who died, my friends, were useless, and had gotten in your way…” His glare turned murderous, “If you don’t get out of here so help me…”

Trixie backed up slightly on the stage, before she regained her composure and smiled, “The Great and Powerful Trixie doubts that your measly abilities are able to defeat The Great and Powerful Trixie!” She yawned, “This talk has bored Trixie, but do not fear, Trixie shall be back tomorrow to show you all Trixie’s amazing magical prowess!” Her horn lit up and smoke obscured her as she vanished.

Twilight frowned at the stage, before she backed up quickly as it folded up and turned into a stage coach, disappearing after Trixie. She sighed, looking over at Thunder, “Shining sent me the letter, but he never said anything about casualties and a mare like Trixie.” She put Spike on her back and ran to the library as the crowd started to go, including Rainbow, Fluttershy, Pinkie and Rarity.

Applejack huffed, “That pony is more of ah bad apple than any ever been.” she looked at Thunder and the pegasus, “So, whater yall doin here if yer royal guards from Canterlot?” she asked.

Thunder sighed, visibly calming down, “Guard leave, at least for me, Shadow over here is an actor, but he’s got no jobs at the moment, so he decided to take a vacation with me. I got a years leave, special for what the members of the Hoofington Event went through.”

Applejack looked at Thunder, “Yer lyin, ah kin tell. You aint on leave.” she pauses for a second, and looks him over carefully, “But it aint ma business ta interrigate ya, so ill not ask and let ya go bout what yer doin.” she said.

Thunder nodded, “‘Preciate that.” He said, before looking around, “Is there a motel in town? One that allows weapons?”

Applejack frowned, “Ah don't rightly know, an ah don' think ya should be needin a weapon either.” she said.

Thunder frowned, lighting up his horn as a small pen like object popped out of his saddle bags, before it grew in size, turning into a sword, “This is Harmonic Strike. I made it myself. It never dulls, never chips and will cut through most types of magical and normal armor.” He put it away, it shrinking as it did, “I never go anywhere without it.”

“And I'm never allowed to touch it.” Shadow muttered, looking at Thunders bag.

“Because it’s a pen when I take my magic away. You want to write with it, no problem.” Thunder said, before turning back to Applejack, “Know anywhere I would be able to stay? I’m no stranger to hard work.”

Applejack sighed, “I couldn't ask ya ta work on tha farm with me. If ya ask round, ahm sure somepony will know ah place er motel er something round here fer tha both ah ya.” she said.

“Thank you miss…” He trailed off, not knowing her name.

“Right, ahm Applejack, nice meetin ya.” Applejack said, putting a hoof out.

“Thunder, Thunder Quill, right back at you.” He said, returning the gesture, “And one of my oldest surviving friends, Shadow Star, world famous actor,” He said with a smirk, “If he could land a job.”

Star frowned, “I had a job once!”

Thunder sighed, beginning to walk away, “Yeah, you were Darth Vader in Star Mares, and your face wasn’t shown once.”

Star sighed, and flew after him, “Yeah, well, I still had sort of a job...” He said.

Applejack chuckled and left for Sweet Apple Acres, looking back at the spot the stage had been for a minute before trotting away.

Jason panted heavily, “Holy shit… we actually made it.” He groaned from the opposite side of the canyon, smiling at hearing the bear roar, from the other side, “We’re alive.”

Gilda sat up quickly from the ground, and groaned, “Alive, but with wings that hurt like hay...” She muttered, rubbing her back.

“At least we’re alive to complain about it.” He groaned, rubbing his wings, “Sorry about that line. Couldn’t resist.”

“Tell me what it means later...” Gilda muttered, getting onto her feet, shaking herself out as dust fell away from her body, “We just got like...an hour or so ahead of schedule because of the ursa, and I don't want it figuring out it can jump across easily.” she whispered.

“Unless it can jump a mile, I think we’re safe.” Jason deadpanned, getting up. “The skateboard was a good idea…” He muttered, an idea coming to him, “And If I can do that…” He trailed off, his lower body transforming into a long strip, with four wheels on the bottom and a seat behind him, complete with safety straps that a griffon could sit in easily, “I am now a car.” He said in a robotic dog’s voice.

Gilda stared at him oddly, “Ok...whatever that is, it looks deformed.”

“It’s the best chance for us to move the fastest as possible. I can move the wheels myself, and if we need to, I can sprout wings to glide.” He said, turning his upper arms into wings. “I look like a highly mutated freak, but It’s the best chance.”

Gilda walked around him, looking at the parts he called a car, “So...I just sit in the seat or what? I think it would just be easier to walk...”

“Sit in the seat, we move faster than we could by running at our fastest speed.” Jason said, his eyes turning a stormy grey, “Now get in the god damned seat.”

“Alright, jeez.” Gilda said, jumping onto the seat.

Jason smirked, “Hold on.” The wheels spun rapidly, creating a mass of smoke, before shooting forwards at speeds Rainbow Dash would find extreme. Gildas talons dug into the seat as she held on. “We’re going at roughly 5000 miles per hour!” He shouted, “This may not have been my best idea!”

“Stop the car thing!” Gilda yelled, her talons digging in deeper into the seat as she held tightly to the fabric.

Jason gritted his teeth as he stopped, skid marks appearing on the ground for a large distance before he finally stopped. “You alright?” He asked through his teeth.

Gilda looked like her fur and feathers had gone through a tornado, her talons as far in as they could possible go, “Yeah, I totally enjoyed being on a crazy contraption creature.” She pulled on her talons, unbudged, “And I’m stuck.”

Jason groaned, “Pull it out as hard as you can. It should get unstuck.” Gilda pulled harder on her talons, before she fell over the seat and onto the ground, the fabric of the seat ripping and tearing apart as her talons got unstuck.

Jason growled, transforming back into his normal body, “Let’s not do that ever again.” He muttered, standing up, “Let’s keep going.” He growled again, walking.

Gilda stood up from the ground and shook herself, fixing her fur and feathers, “Trust me, I wouldn't want to do that again if I got a thousand bits.” she said, walking after him.

They walked for a couple more hours, only stopping once they got to a giant mountain range, “This should be a good place to stop for the night,” Jason muttered, walking into a cave at the bottom of the range.

Gilda shrugged, “Sure. Just hope no one else is around here… looks a bit like dragon territory to me.” she said, walking into the cave, observing around, “Why are you limping anyway, it wasn't that bad of a walk.”

Jason growled, “Not your concern.” He grabbed some sticks and weeds from the bottom of the cave and placed them in a small circle, before grabbing a certain rock and morphing his right hand into it. He snapped his fingers creating a small spark, which lit up some of the branches and weeds, and soon enough they had a roaring fire, which lit up the cave as well as a dark green patch on Jason’s upper thigh, four holes in the fabric of his jeans in the shape of Gilda’s talons.

Gilda looked at it, “I guess I shouldn't be surprised that the seat was an actual part of you and not just something you made up out of nothing.” She said.

“Kind of hard to use transformation powers when you use nothing,” He growled, sitting up slightly.

“Sorry then.” Gilda said.

Jason said nothing, instead opting to growl as he stood up and walked to the outside of the cave. “I’ll keep watch, go to sleep.”

“No need to tell me twice for that.” Gilda said, lying down on the cave floor, curling up and putting a wing over herself for warmth. Soft snoring emanating from under her wing after a few minutes indicating her slumber.

Jason sighed, sitting down as he closed his eyes as he established a mental link with him and Emily. When he opened his eyes he was in the normal meeting place, the school study hall, “God damn it…” He growled, grabbing another desk as he sat on one, elevating his injured leg.

Emily appeared sitting down in a chair, a little red bird on her shoulder, “You know, I really don't like communication like this, since I almost burned down the tent in my sleep that one time...” she turned and looked at the bird, “Oh...you can follow me now?” she asked.

“Who’s the bird?” He asked, hissing as the jeans dragged across his wounds slightly, “God damn it…”

Emily looked at him, “I think a better question is what happened to you with your...interestingly enough now green blood...” she said.

“I’m fine.” He muttered, “I’ll ask again, who’s the bird?”

“Hes Blaze.” Emily said calmly.

“How did he get here?” Jason asked, an angry tone to his voice.

Emily frowned, picking Blaze up in her hands and holding him, “I’m a magic person, magic people get a pet, hes my pet, I won him from some pervy dragons.” she said.

“Nice job.” Jason said, moving his leg and standing up, hissing as pain shot through his leg, “Fighting off Dragons seems something a wizard would do.” He growled through gritted teeth.

“One of them was trying to rape me...” Emily sighed, “Not a fun experience really.”

“I’ll kill him.” Jason growled, fire burning in his eyes.

Emily shrugged, looking down at Blaze, “Imloch scared them enough. They won't come back anytime soon. Poor little Blaze, being threatened by big mean dragons while an egg.” she whispered, hugging him.

“Look after him, he seems like a good Phoenix.” He gave a small smile, which quickly morphed into a scowl, “It’s about time to wake up, Gilda will probably need some food.” He muttered spitefully.

“She scratch you or something? Is that why you're bleeding green blood?” Emily asked.

“I SAID I’M FINE!” Jason yelled, whipping around to face Emily.

“You don't sound it.” Emily said.

Jason growled, “Talons so far deep into my Chitin that they got stuck.” He tilted his head, “Sound fine enough?”

Emily frowned, “Could I have some context to that really strange sentence?” She asked.

Jason glared at Emily, before turning away, “I wanted to get across the badlands faster, so I turned my lower half into a car-like shape, with a seat.”

“And she sat in the seat, which was your legs, I’m guessing.” Emily said. “Why did she had to dig her talons in then? Cars barely go fast enough for a need to hold on unless they are Nascar cars.”

“I went faster than Nascar, hell, I went at least five times faster than the fastest land speed cars, you know the ones with rockets on the back?”

“No, I don't. I don't really know much about cars besides Nascar is just in circles.” Emily said.

“The fastest Land Speed car went about 900 MPH, I went over 5000.” He said, turning away, “Without a shell or anything else.”

Emily thought about that, “It isn't really her fault though, if she didn't know your legs were actually the seat and you were going faster than she could ever fly to begin with. Hell, I would dig my nails into your leg if you did that...if I had any...” she looked at her chewed fingernails, and shrugged, “She didn't do it on purpose.”

“I added safety belts for a reason.” He muttered, “I added things like that for a reason.”

“Has a griffon, or any type of creature in this world, even seen one before?” Emily asked, putting Blaze down on the table.

“She should realize what they are for!” He exclaimed, “I try to keep her safe, I get crippled! How is that fair!?”

Emily sighed, “I’ll ask Imloch to teach me a healing spell so I can heal you when we see each other later. She hasn't seen a seat belt, she didn't know. She is probably sorry.”

Jason glared, before sighing, “Yeah… I know… She said as much, I just assumed that the Princess of the Griffon Empire would know what a seatbelt is.”

Emily blinked, “What?”

Jason sighed, “She is the exiled and disowned daughter of the King and Queen of the Griffon Empire…”

“Ok...wow.” Emily said, “Thats kinda cool. I just hope that everything is going to be normal again when we get back home...I think.” she looked at Blaze on the table, “Except for him, and you, I guess.”

Jason frowned, “I’m… not going back to Ponyville…”

Emilys frown came back, with more intensity, “Why the fuck am I even trying to come for you then? Im not going back to Ponyville without my fucking shiity ass friend.”

Jason glared, “Because I would hope that dragon-meat Emily would want to know where her fucking shitty ass friend was going to stay. You saw how ponies looked at us when we first moved into town? Imagine what they’ll say when they see I’ve become ¾th changeling, a hated race by ponies. I don’t think it’s gonna work too well.”

Emily sighed for a full minute, leaning back in her chair as she looked up at the ceiling, “If I know Twilight, she would probably help you out with that.”

Jason shook his head, “Twilight doesn’t have complete control over the town. Even Celestia is unable to stop the actions of each individual pony in her kingdom. Old racisms die hard…” He muttered.

“Learn to change. You got some time before we meet up.” Emily said, looking up at him after returning to a more normal sitting position.

“What if I don’t want to change?” Jason muttered, “I want people to accept me for me.”

“I’m sure our friends will protect you, and I will as well. The ponies will learn to accept you if me and the others trust you.” Emily said confidently.

“I can protect myself,” He growled, lifting his arm and creating a triangle shaped blade, “Or did you forget?”

Emily sighed, “I mean, protect you, as in help you get trusted faster...” She looked at Blaze, “Help me out here buddy?” She said, leaning on the table.

”I have to agree with Jason…” Blaze said amazingly, his voice surprisingly deep.

“Holy shit baby phoenix talking!” Emily exclaimed, looking up at Jason, “Did you hear that?”

Jason shook his head, “No, what?”

”Only you can hear me, Emily.” Blaze said, ”It is a trait that Familiars share with their Wizards.”

Emily stared at Blaze, “How do you know this, you were born an hour ago!” She exclaimed.

”We share a mental link, remember?” Blaze pointed out, ”Everything you know, I know as well, everything that Imloch has ever told you, I know. He tells you a lot that you actually remember, even if you aren’t paying attention at the time.”

Emily sighed, “I should have payed attention to that one drawn out speech he made while explaining Bobo...” she muttered. She smirked, looking up at Jason, “He agrees with me.”

”That is a lie!” He said indignantly, flying up and shaking his head, ”From what I have seen of creatures, they fear what they do not understand, and since Changelings is the race that is the least understood, it is understandable that they would be feared the most.

Emily frowned, “My own familiar is trying to make me unable to keep my friend, and its a baby...” she muttered, “Fine, if I can't stop you, and my own familiar is against me, I cant keep you from not coming.” she muttered, putting her arms across her chest.

Jason exhaled, “I never said I was never going to see you again. I’m just gonna go someplace a bit more reclusive, I’m gonna visit.” He muttered, “Em, you’re my best friend, the world exploding and death wouldn’t keep me from seeing you if I wanted.”

Emily puffed out her cheeks and breathed out slowly, thinking, “Theres a cave on a mountain close to Ponyville. Before me and Imloch left, Twilight and her friends were told to go and get a dragon out. Its vacant now I assume, so you can live there.” She suggested. “Thats why they arent helping to search for you.”

Jason shrugged, “Alright, and, thanks. It means a lot to me for you doing this.” He smiled, “I can’t wait to see you face to face.”

“Im just mad you won't stay in the castle with me. I don't want to live with Imloch alone!” she complained.

Blaze squawked angrily, ”You’re not alone! You have me now!”

Emily looked at him, “I know I have you. But you can’t save me from Imloch.”

Jason sighed, “I’ll see you guys tomorrow.” He sighed, closing his eyes.

Jason opened his eyes, instantly falling on Gilda’s sleeping form, She’s actually really nice looking… He thought to himself before blinking, Did I really just think that?

Her wing moved out of the way from under him and he was met by an open eye, “What are you doing?” she asked.

“Just got off a mental talk with Emily,” He said, “She wasn’t really happy with my choice to not go back to Ponyville.”

Gilda sighed, “I might be too if I knew ya a long time like she probably does,” she said, “now get off me.”

Jason complied, frowning as he did so, “I was at the cave entrance, how did I end up over here?”

Gilda shrugged, standing up and shaking herself out, “I dunno. Maybe you moved. Your leg ok?”

Jason nodded slowly as he thought, before he sighed, “Listen, sorry about last night, I was just angry that my Idea failed, on top of me being in pain…” He sighed again, “I did put safety straps on the seat so you wouldn’t have to do that…”

“Is that what those things were? I thought they were some useless decoration for a car thing.” Gilda said.

Jason sniggered, “Nope, those things can spell the difference between life and death in a car accident at high speeds.” He fell silent, “Theres this mountain, on the outskirts of Ponyville, really tall, no-pony goes near it?”

Gilda shrugged, “I dunno. I don't think ponies really go anywhere outside their towns anyway besides by train.”

“Well, near the top, there is a cave, I’m guessing a large one, since It used to hold a dragon, and when I told Emily that I was looking for a different place, she suggested that one, It’s large, easily enough for at least 100 people, depending on the dragon, close enough to town so that supplies are easy, yet far enough that no-pony up there would be disturbed.” Jason said.

“Sounds like a good place for you.” Gilda said.

“And you, If you wanted to.” He said, “I’m not against sharing space, and since you seem to have, trust, issues, I’m guessing due to the whole Exile business, that could be a good way to fix it.”

Gilda glared at him, “I don't have trust issues.” she looked at her talons and flexed them, “But...I guess if you're offering, I could live there with you I guess and make my own place in it...”

Jason smiled, “Thank you, was that so hard?” He grinned, before wincing at the pain in his leg, “We should keep moving, we still have a long way to go until we get to Imloch and Emily.” He began limping out of the cave.

Gilda watched him, and ran in front of him, “You might not be that heavy that I can't let you sit on me for awhile. I might as well do that for ya.” she said.

Jason looked heavily surprised, “Are you sure? I weighed about 160-ish before, and with this chiten, I’ve probably only gained some weight.”

Gilda shrugged, “I lifted heavier back home when I was a kit. Besides, even if I can’t fly with you on my back, I can still walk with you. It isn't that hard, probably heavier than you anyway.” she muttered.

Jason looked unsure, but he nodded, “Alright…” He said, leaning down and sitting on her back slowly, “The moment you get tired, you tell me and I’ll get off, alright?”

“Yeah, whatever.” Gilda said, starting to run.

Jason was silent for a couple hours, glancing every once and a while back at Gilda, “Your fur is really soft…” Jason said, before an audible smack emanated from his facial area.

“Uhhh...thanks, I guess.” Gilda said, the confusion and slight discomfort easy to feel.

“Sorry…” He muttered, “You didn’t have to carry me… I can walk myself...:”

“I messed up, its only fair I carry you since I gave you a limp.” Gilda replied.

“I am still perfectly fine with walking…” He muttered, “Thank you though…”

Gildas emotions changed to frustration, her running going a bit faster, “You walking wouldn't be fast enough.” she muttered.

“I suppose…” He said, “You don’t owe me anything, I screwed up, I got hurt. Karmic justice and all that…”

“Whatever.” Gilda said, “Just be happy you get a free ride and don't have to run.” she said.

Jason groaned, “There is no convincing you otherwise, is there?”

“No.” Gilda said.

Jason sighed again, “Alright… This at least gets me some time to test out what I can do some more.” He said, changing his arms into things.

Gilda rolled her eyes, “Just don't make anything that can cut me.” she said.

Jason rolled his eyes, “At the very least a minor peirce.” He joked, changing his arm into a crossbow shape, which fired a bolt like shape. “Nice.” Gilda jumped over where the blt had landed and continued running as he played with his abilities. “You know, you could have just left me.” He said softly, “You didn’t have to let me ride you…”

“You could have let me die.” Gilda replied, looking ahead.

Jason blinked, “So this is a repayment? I saved your life, you save mine?”

“This is me saying sorry for what I had done to the others at Ponyville, and for you saving and letting me live with you in the mountain later.” Gilda said, her gratitude in her voice and emotions.

Jason blinked again, before smiling, “Well I for one forgive you. I know first hand that losing a friend can be vicious, especially one that you’ve had for a really long time.”

Gilda sighed, “It's nothing really, hadn't seen Rainbow in a long time anyway. It didn't matter anymore what friendship we used to have.”

Jason frowned, “Was she friends with you before I came in and fucked everything up? I’m sorry about that by the way.”

“You didn’t do anything dude, you just happened to be able to get Rainbow informed of my treatment of one of her friends...”

“But was she? People who are friends so long, usually stay being friends, even after such a long time.” He asked.

Gilda sighed, “It was too long a time. She was so different back then, the pony she is now isnt even remotely how I remembered her. I guess she wasn't really my friend on that visit...” her running changed to a slow gallop as she thought.

“I’m sorry for bringing it up…” Jason said, “Are we friends? I would like to think we are…” He asked.

Gilda laughed, “Based on how you've been treating me since finding me, I gotta say yeah.” she said.

Jason laughed along with her, “That’s good.” He said softly, “I’m glad for that.” Gilda didn't respond, and started running again. He looked ahead, squinting, “I see another mountain range up ahead, some caves dotting the side of it. Looks to be a far distance off…”

“Sounds like a dragon nesting area, and I can see them better then you can. Eagle eyes.” Gilda said, looking herself, “I don't think we should stop there.”

Jason squinted more, “We have two options, we stop in one of the lower caves, and hope that there is either no dragon, or that he/she is at least friendly enough to let us stay there… Or we continue on until we hopefully find another cave…”

Gilda stopped running and stood in the dirt, taking a while to think it over, “I guess we can try the caves idea. We can sneak im and check to make sure that there isn't a dragon in one, so we can stay for a bit. It will also help to not alert any more dragons that we are there if we sneak into the cave quietly.”

Jason nodded, “Guess it’s good then that I can change my color and texture to the same as the wall.” He said smirking, “Changelings, masters of disguise.”

“Griffon, can't really change.” Gilda reminded him.

Jason nodded, “True… Can you wait outside the cave, close enough that I can get to you easily, but far enough that we can escape if needed?”

Gilda frowned, “I didn't say that Griffons weren't able to sneak up on things they wanted, now did I? I just said I wasn't as easily disguised as you would be.”

Jason sighed, “I know… I just don’t want you to get hurt. If the Dragon uses its breath weapon on me, I’ll be made out of stone, which doesn’t burn. It melts at high enough temperatures, but it doesn’t burn.”

Gilda blinked, “Breath weapon? You mean fire? Why do you make everything cool sound lame?” she laughed, “Alright, ill wait out here for ya.”

Jason nodded, getting off her back, “It’s called a breath weapon because different Dragons have different kinds of weapons. Fire is the most normal, but there is also lighting, frost, acid, corrosion along with other things.”

“Not in this world, here its just fire, now go check, before I decide to do it in boredom and hope theres a dragon.” Gilda said.

“Alright, alright, I’m going.” He chuckled goodnaturedly, “If you see fire, prepare to run like all hells.” He began to walk towards the caves.

Gilda nodded, “I'll keep an eye on that.”

“Not a bad place…” Thunder said, looking around his and Shadow’s room, “Could do with a bit more decorations…”

Shadow shrugged, “I'm just glad we have two rooms and a kitchen and don't have to share a bed.” he said looking around the room. It was actually multiple small white walled rooms divided up into a small tiled kitchen with an oven and a marble island, a brown couch able to unfold to be an extra bed with a hallway between them leading to three white doorways. a bedroom on either side of the hallway while a bathroom sat at the end of the hall.

“Still could use a picture or two…” He muttered, placing his saddlebags onto his desk, “Not bad though”.

Shadow walked down the hallway and into the left room, looking at the neatly made bed with a bedside table next to it, “I suppose. Too bad we can't decorate a motel, and that we couldn't get a bigger one...” he complained.

“I suppose… I’m really surprised they let me keep Harmonic Strike.” He said, taking his blade out as a pen and putting it in a pen-cup.

Shadow stared at it, “Maybe because it looked like a pen to them because you didn't make it a sword.” he rolled his eyes and shut his bedroom door a bit more dramatically then was needed as he walked into it.

Thunder sighed, looking around his room before picking up Harmonic Strike and placing it in his mane, “Going to the Library, see you later!” He called to Shadow as he walked out the door.

“Have fun with your secret guarding,” Shadow said to the empty room, chuckling quietly as he took chalk and a book out of his saddlebags and flew up to the ceiling, pushing a small panel of the ceiling back so he looked into the darkness of the space between, and hid the stuff inside, replacing the ceiling piece and landing back on the floor. “My dear friend.” he muttered, going to the kitchen.

Thunder walked through the town, taking in the sights, “Not a bad place…” He said, before frowning at the giant tower in the middle of the town. “That’s an eyesore…” He muttered, before turning to the literal tree-house, “Golden Oaks Library…” He muttered, reading the sign out front, “Seems like the right place…” He trotted up to the front door and knocked, “Hello? Miss Sparkle?”

Thunder waited as he heard hoofsteps from behind the door, it finally opening, revealing a small purple dragon, to which Thunder tensed, “Hello?” The Dragon asked, looking up at Thunder.

Thunder calmed down, “I’m here to talk to Twilight Sparkle, I served with her brother in the royal guard. Is she in?”

“Yeah, she’s inside.” The Dragon said, moving aside so that Thunder could enter, “My name is Spike.”

“Thunder, Thunder Quill, nice to meet you Spike.” Thunder said as he entered, Spike closing the door behind him, which created a small thud. “Twilight?” He called out, “Where are you?”

A door opened at the end of the main room, and Twilight walked in, a book in her magic glow, “Hello...are you here because you need a book?” she asked, frowning slightly as she looked out the windows near the front door.

“Not exactly…” He muttered so that Spike or Twilight couldn’t hear him, “I kind of wanted just to talk…” He said, sheepishly, “Shining told me all about you, he was kind of like an older brother to me…”

Twilight smiled, “Thats nice of him to do… I haven't been talking about him at all, which I probably should be doing...Whenever he brought some of you guys home to train, I would enjoy watching it, and I considered you guys part of my family as well, just really extended.” she said.

Thunder smiled, “Yeah, Shining always spoke very highly of you, He was never more happy than the day that you became Celestia’s personal student. He always spoke of that day with pride.”

Twilight smiled back, “Thats nice of him then...” she looked out the window again and sighed, “Im just...a bit sad about what you said back there, about what Trixie did...Shes a showoff, but she would insult ponies like that and shove it in their faces...”

“Yeah…” Thunder said, “That… bitch has the gall to take credit for something that my best friends have died doing… If I get my hooves on her…”

Twilight stared at him, “Don't hurt her. She is just blowing hot air and is probably more harmless than anything else. Shes going to leave soon I think...” she said, shaking her head, “Anyway...your a royal guard, but you don't have a cutie mark that normally goes for one, and I haven’t seen it in any books I have read yet, and if I did, I haven’t seen any pictures to identify it with. What exactly is your talent?”

Thunder smiled, “It’s called a Yin-Yang, it symbolises balance, or harmony. My special talent is being able to sense harmony, or balance in ponies. I always prefer to keep the balance between good and evil. I fight for good, but I don’t let them get too powerful, if good disrupts the balance, it must be corrected, by evil gaining power.”

Twilight smiled, “Thats good then, I'm happy that you were a good guard before you got on leave. Im also quite happy to finally see a symbol for it.” she said.

Thunder nodded, “I didn’t even know what It was until about five years ago. I was stationed in the tiger homeland, and I saw the symbol everywhere. I finally asked my captain, who was an earth pony named Storm Hooves who had lived there for most of his life, married a nice tiger named Gress, Nice mare, but anyway, I asked him and he told me it was a Yin-Yang, symbol of harmony. I had known I could do those things for a while, but it was nice to know what markings were on my flank.” He half joked.

Twilight nodded, “It is nice to know what the symbol on your flank is, even if you do know your talent, its nice knowing both.” she agreed.

Thunder smiled, before his eyes widened in shock, “Crap! I gotta get back to my motel, see you later Twilight.” He said, rushing out the door.

Twilight waved to him as he left, and looked at Spike, “The library isn't open, I need to study something...” she said, leaving the room.

Jason crept as quietly as he could through the cave, thanking every deity that he knew of that he hasn’t been spotted. Every single god-damned cave near the ground that he had explored had a sleeping dragon, freaking huge ones, whose little toes were about five times larger than Spike. “This is the last cave on this level, if there is nothing here…” He whispered, before freezing as a growl echoed behind him, “Fuck…” He muttered, turning around slowly, knowing that his stony covering wouldn’t protect him for long. A giant, forty five stories tall dragon stood in front of him, scales a deep black, and it’s eyes a shining green. It opened its mouth, a green light glowing inside of it. “NOPE!” He said quickly, making his skateboard and racing underneath it’s legs, “NOPENOPENOPENOPENOPE!” He screamed, as the floor ahead of him melted. “I KNEW THEY HAD ACID!” He roared, making his board fly into the air with a small fist smashing into the ground beneath it. He landed, uninjured, as he raced into the moonlight. He heard a roar from behind him, followed by a dozen more. “SHITSHITSHITSHITSHIT!” He screamed, racing ahead as fast as he could, “GILDA!!!” He yelled, stopping at where she was supposed to be, “WHERE ARE YOU!?”

Gilda ran out from behind a part of the mountain, and looked up at the dragons in the sky, “Wow...” she said.

“They can go faster than I could, we need to hide, or find a defensible position…” He muttered, looking around rapidly.

Gilda watched him, before she looked back at the dragons. Her fur and feathers stood on end as she spread her wings, and roared loudly, grabbing Jason's arm and running in the other direction before the dragons could react to it.

“They can catch up easy…” Jason panted, before wrenching his arm out of her grip, “Keep going, I can buy you some time.” He said, his eyes a bright purple color.

Gilda skidded to a stop and turned to him, “I'm not letting you die after everything you did for me! Just use your changeling thing and turn into something again. An animal preferably.”

Jason shook his head, "There's no time. Plus I don't know how yet. I can buy you some time, but you have to go now!" He yelled, the dragons getting closer.

Gilda shook her head, “No, Im not going to leave you to die to some dumb dragons. Im going to stay and help you.”

Jason glared at her, "I didn't save you so you could throw it away fighting dragons!"

Gilda glared back at him, “And I didn't decide to return the favour by watching you die yourself!” she slapped him with a claw, before she kissed on on the cheek quickly and ran away.

Jason froze, a hand slowly moving to the place where she had kissed him. His eyes glowed even brighter, "Godspeed..." He whispered, before turning to the incoming dragons, "I might die this day, but I swear I won't let you touch her!" He roared,something breaking free inside of him. With a groan, he began to change. His legs grew bigger, becoming a bright silver as scales began forming, his mouth elongated, his teeth becoming razor sharp. His back exploded, two giant silver wings forming. The first dragon reached him, spewing fire, completely consuming him. When the smoke cleared, a giant silver dragon appeared in his place, his purple eyes glowing with rage. "YOU SHALL NOT TOUCH HER!!!" He roared, taking to the skies with beats of his mighty wings. The first dragon who charged him found itself without a head, the next, both wings. More and more fell to Jason's draconic strength, until he stood against the black dragon.

The foe dragon opened its maw, creating a blast of acid, which Jason countered with his fire, creating a brilliant show of acid and fire being disintegrated by each other, the green of the acid and the orange and red of the fire making what looked like a shower of colored drops of water on the ground with whatever escaped, which started to sink in on itself slowly making a hole. The dragons kept it up, and neither was going to stop, but Jason's side was beginning to shrink.

The black dragon grew smug, increasing his breath blast as the fiery red continued to get ever smaller. Jason's eyes narrowed, throwing in as much power as he could to the blast, eventually driving the green backwards. The black dragon's eyes widened as he tried to put more into it, but it was too late. The fire poured over him, causing him to roar in pain as the white hot fire began melting his scales.

Soon enough, there was nothing more of the Drake than charred ashes that fell to the ground. Jason roared in victory, sending a gout of flame into the air. He felt the last of his energy leave him as his dragon form left him, sending him falling to the ground. At least she's safe... He thought to himself, That's what matters... As his consciousness finally left him, he felt a soft, familiar feeling embrace him as his vision went dark.

Gilda had watched Jason transform and change into a giant dragon once she had run away far enough, and watched as he fought the other dragons like they were the ones intruding on his space. She watched as he changed back in midair, and started running as he fell. Her wings opened as she picked up speed, and she jumped off the ground, flapping her wings as she caught him out of the air, just as he fell unconscious.

She sighed, looking at her wings. She smiled, and flew back to the ground, putting him down, “Consider this my thanks, you idiot.” she muttered, pulling him by his hair into one of the now vacant caves.

Jason groaned, realizing happily that he did so. "So I'm not dead..." He moaned, "Sure feels like I should be..." He muttered. He was inside a small pocket ledge on the inside of the side of a cave wall, alongside some gems that had been housed there by its old owner. He wondered how he had gotten to that place, stiffening as he heard someone walking, "Who's there?" He meant to yell, but it came out more as a croak.

“Don't try and strain yourself dragon boy.” Gildas voice said from over the ledge, “You looked like you did that enough as a dragon.”

Jason smiled weakly, "Thank god you're alright..." He let out a cough, "What happened, I don't really remember much of it, besides the transformation part."

Gildas voice held amusement to it, “You killed all the dragons, as well as providing a rad light show with fire and acid.” she said, the sound of wings flapping as she flew onto the lip of the ledge. “I think the fall into the hole full of acid would have killed you more then anything else really...”

Jason nodded, before suddenly shivering, "Why is it so cold?" He asked, "Was it like this before?"

Gilda looked around, “The cave? Nah, not really. Its good for me.”

"Well you have fur and feathers for insulation, while I got nothing."

Gilda looked at him, and crouched down so she could get closer in the slanting rock of the ceiling, “Maybe its because you haven't moved for a couple hours, your shirt is gone, and you're lying on a few gems.” she said.

"Maybe..." He said, grunting in pain as he sat up, "Remember right before I transformed, what you did after slapping me?" He asked her.

Gilda nodded, “Yeah. Be careful not to hit your head by the way.” she said.

Jason smiled very slightly, taking care not to bump his head, "Did that mean anything, or..."

Gilda sighed, “It meant, I hope you don't die, because if you do, ill kill you again after what I did for you.” she said.

Jason simply smiled, before leaning forwards and kissing her on the cheek.

Gilda blinked, and looked at him, “Do you consider that to be even?” she asked.

Jason shook his head, "No, it's my way if saying I like you, like-like you."

Gilda hummed, smiling, “I can't say i'm not surprised, I may like you as well, since you have helped me and considering everything that's happened, I don't think I wouldn't mind.” she backed up back to the opening, “Take a nap, we leave in the morning.” she said, flying out of sight.

Jason smiled, "Can't wait." He whispered, before trying to get comfortable on the stone floor.