Chapters It's been a few days since Erlöser was saved by Rainbow Dash and moved into the video game shop where she lives. By the request of Larvali, she must train Erlöser to use his blood and find his unique fighting ability. The walls of the video game shop basement's secret room has dry blood stains all over them, including floor. The room itself is a simple square shape with a box at its centre, upon which sits Rainbow Dash shuffling a deck of normal playing cards. Erlöser stands against the left wall of the room looking very nervous.
"I wanted to train you sooner, but Larvali insisted you be given time to... 'Settle in'. As if anyone can settle in to being a Ketsueki Kansen... Dragon blood or not, you're still just a weak little shit at this point. Plus, as far as I'm concerned, you're just another Ketsueki Kansen." Rainbow Dash explains while looking harshly at Erlöser.
Erlöser shakes his head and looks at Rainbow Dash. "I wanted to die remember... I never asked for any of this 'Ketsueki Kansen' crap... I've spent far too many years on my own, abandoned by those I thought were my friends. I'm only still here because it looks like I've got no choice in the matter." Erlöser states, looking depressed.
Rainbow Dash rolls her eyes at Erlöser and makes clicking noises with her tongue. "You still wearing that depressing attitude? I'm not doing this out of pity kid... I saved you for my own reasons. For the moment you don't need to know a damn thing about it. Now for your training we are going to play a little game." Rainbow Dash finishes shuffling the deck of cards and places them next to her on the box. She then crosses her legs and looks playfully at Erlöser.
Erlöser swallows hard and sighs deeply. "Define 'little game'?" Rainbow Dash smiles and turns her eyes a focused blood red.
"The rules are simple, the suit of the card affects where I aim on your body. If diamond, I will aim for your legs; if heart, it's your torso; if clubs, it's your arms; if spades, it's your head or pelvis. The number on the card equals the power of the throw ranging from two to ten. Then jack, queen and king is eleven, twelve and thirteen. Ace is fourteen so it's the most powerful throw I will do. Understand so far?" Rainbow Dash draws a card and flips it round. "Oh the cards wanted to end this early, ace of spades." Rainbow Dash throws the card at Erlöser's head. He doesn't even have time to dodge when the card flies past his head causing a cut on his right cheek.
"Rainbow Dash! That could of killed me!" Erlöser yells in shock as he touches his slightly bleeding cheek.
"Learn to dodge faster and stop being a little bitch. That was a warning shot to prove I can throw the cards." Rainbow Dash draws two more cards. "Well, your luck is shit... Jack of clubs and ten of clubs." Rainbow Dash throws the cards at Erlöser's arms. The jack of clubs narrowly misses Erlöser's right arm. The ten of clubs hits and goes clean through Erlöser's left arm and into the wall behind him. Erlöser holds his arm in pain. "Oh come on, it's not that hard to dodge!" Rainbow Dash yells as she draws three more cards from the deck. "King of spades, three of hearts and six of diamonds... Do try to move around a bit more, wont you?" Rainbow dash throws the cards one by one at Erlöser. The king of spades narrowly avoids Erlöser's groin as he jumps out of the way, the three of hearts cuts the edge of Erlöser's stomach and the six of diamonds cuts Erlöser's thigh deeply. "Well you're getting better... Still not fantastic, but getting better. Let's go for a whole five card hand this time?" Rainbow Dash smirks as she shuffles the deck.
"What is the point of this Rainbow Dash?! I don't see what dodging cards has to do with my training!" Erlöser screams at Rainbow Dash who draws her five card hand.
"Six of hearts, ace of diamonds, seven of clubs, five of hearts and five of diamonds... Not such a bad hand but let's see how many you can dodge this time." Rainbow Dash smirks as she prepares to throw the cards.
"Rainbow Dash, isn't there a... Safer training method?" Erlöser pleads to Rainbow Dash who laughs and throws the cards at him.
The six of hearts cuts his side deeply as it flies past to embed into the wall behind him. The ace of diamonds flies straight through Erlöser's right thigh, making his movements slower as he doesn't manage to dodge the seven of clubs, which hits and stays sticking out of his right arm. The five of hearts and five of diamonds narrowly miss his legs and torso as he ducks to the floor.
"That's an improvement but we could still do much better... Shall we try a larger hand? Let's try a larger hand..." Rainbow Dash answers herself as Erlöser went to complain. Rainbow Dash shuffles the decreasing deck with more enthusiasm enjoying this 'training game'.
Erlöser stands against the wall which has a large heavy looking rusted steel door. "Come on Rainbow Dash, be reasonable please!" Erlöser yells in vain hope that she will listen.
"If you can't dodge a simple bucking playing card you will never dodge a Ketsueki Kansen attack of any calibre! You need to learn how to dodge before anything else!" Rainbow Dash draws a seven card hand this time. "Queen of hearts, king of diamonds, two of spades, four of clubs, jack of diamonds, three of clubs and ace of clubs... I'll stop when you learn to dodge!"
The queen of hearts slices straight through Erlöser's stomach out into the wall behind him. The king of diamonds slices straight through Erlöser's left thigh again making his movements even slower with his right leg wounded. The two of spades is easily dodged with a quick duck. The four of clubs and three of clubs are avoided by Erlöser rolling out of the way. The jack of diamonds cuts straight through his left shin and the ace of clubs cuts Erlöser's right hand. "Rainbow Dash..." Erlöser vaguely manages to weakly whimper as he stands up and leans against the heavy door.
"Just when I thought you improved... Come on Erlöser, dodge!" Rainbow Dash shuffles and draws one card showing it's a queen of spades. Rainbow Dash throws the queen of spades at Erlöser's head. The heavy door is suddenly opened by Vinyl Scratch.
"Erlöser, the boss needs to see-" Vinyl Scratch cuts herself short as she leans her head to the left dodging the playing card just barely skimming her neck, where her headphones rest. "Playing your card games again Rainbow Dash?" Vinyl Scratch goes to put her headphones on before they suddenly split in two. Vinyl Scratch brings the headphones in front of her and looks at Rainbow Dash, who jumps off the box and drops her remaining cards. Vinyl Scratch looks at Rainbow Dash, then at the card behind her stuck in the stairs leading back up to the shop, before looking back at Rainbow Dash. "Erlöser... Has Rainbow explained to you about the unique traits of Unicorn Ketsueki Kansen..? If not allow me to educate you..." Vinyl Scratch's eyes turn an eager blood red and she slices her hand with the cut edge of her broken headphones. "You see, Unicorns all have unique blood attributes compared to the speed of the Pegasus and physical strength of the Earth Ponies... For example, my blood reacts to frequency, noise and music... Allow me to demonstrate."
"Vinyl, don't be too hasty! It was a common mistake, it could of happened to anyone!" Rainbow Dash tries to plead with Vinyl Scratch who clearly isn't listening.
Vinyl Scratch throws some blood up into the air and snaps her fingers towards the blood making it shoot forwards at Rainbow Dash, who narrowly dodges the shots that create big holes in the wall. "I can also do this for a bigger effect..." Vinyl Scratch throws some more blood up into the air and claps her hands together again towards the blood. The blood shoots forth again but in a more wide spread shotgun effect. Rainbow Dash gets hit by several blood shots and dodges the rest.
"Now... I will occupy Rainbow while you get yourself cleaned up and see the boss... He has something important to discuss with you..." Erlöser slips past Vinyl Scratch who shuts the heavy door behind her and smiles at Rainbow Dash after throwing her headphones on the floor.
Erlöser walks into the break room where Larvali is standing by the window, leaning against the wall. "Ah Erlöser, I'm glad you were able to get away from Rainbow's training... I need to have an talk with you regarding important things." Larvali sits down in the middle of the sofa as Erlöser sits in the armchair. "I want to discuss with you about Pathogen, the branch of the government dedicated to wiping out all Ketsueki Kansen in existence. Rarity, a well known fashion designer is also a Ketsueki Kansen. She can help make you a compact mask which will hide your identity from any Pathogen agents. Some Ketsueki Kansen like Rainbow Dash use a blood mask which is made from their blood. I want Rainbow Dash to take you somewhere today, consider it your day off. Tell her to take you to a bar in the north district of Canterlot. I hope you both return safely." Larvali finishes explaining before standing up to go back to his window as Erlöser leaves the room.
Erlöser walks down the hallway to be passed by a smirking Vinyl Scratch. After walking down the stairs and heading into the main area of the video game store. Erlöser can see Rainbow Dash sitting on the counter looking very annoyed. "So, he wants me to take you to the mask lady? It has to happen sooner or later in order for you to survive." Rainbow Dash leaps from the counter and leaves the store with Erlöser heading for the north district.
After taking an hour long cab ride, Erlöser and Rainbow Dash reach the north district. Rainbow Dash pays the cab driver and then begins heading towards a building with a bright neon purple sign saying 'Sanran Buraddo' . Rainbow Dash leads Erlöser into the bar and over to the main counter where they sell drinks. The bar is dimly lit and has booths lining the walls for ponies to sit in. Around the bar itself are stools, which have cushions on them. Behind the bar, cleaning a shot glass is a female Earth Pony. Her coat is a pale, light greyish mulberry while her mane and tail are a moderate cerise. Her eyes are also a moderate cerise. She is wearing a white shirt with a black waist coat and black bow tie. On her lower half is a pair of black sleek trousers.
"Hey Berry Punch. I take it Rarity is in the back room like normal?" Rainbow Dash asks the mare behind the bar.
"She is in. I take it the colt with you is a new Ketsueki Kansen..? He smells new..." Berry Punch sniffs a few times towards Erlöser.
"Umm... Excuse me, but how do you know if a Ketsueki Kansen is new or not..?" Erlöser asks slightly nervous.
Berry Punch leans on the bar and signals with her finger for Erlöser to come closer. When Erlöser does so, Berry Punch licks Erlöser's cheek playfully. "Your eyes and smell... Each are sensitive to a Ketsueki Kansen. Depending on how you kill and how much you kill, determines your eyes when you go Kansen. For example Rainbow Dash has focused blood red eyes meaning she takes fighting seriously. However, Vinyl Scratch has eager slightly lighter blood red eyes meaning, she takes a much more playful approach to fighting. Between them there is no difference in how often they kill... Which determines your aroma, if you will. Other Kansen can tell Rainbow Dash is powerful by her bloodied aroma." Berry Punch explains while smiling at Erlöser.
"Oh... I'll remember that then..." Erlöser shifts uncomfortably and blushes at being licked.
Rainbow Dash begins walking towards the back door. "Thanks for explaining it to him, when I hand him over to Rarity I will want a drink Berry." Berry Punch winks at Rainbow Dash as she takes Erlöser into the back room.
Once inside the back room, the pair can see that it is rather spacious with various mask styles and models across the walls and on mannequin stands. From normal face masks, to full head masks were displayed on the mannequins. On the wall are more compact models such as masks magically built into everyday devices that could be attached to or near the face. Such devices include a hands free Bluetooth earphone, several different styles of headphones like Vinyl Scratch and Larvali's, various designs of chokers hang on the wall underneath the headphones. Against the base of the side wall under the chokers, sitting on racks are several designs of glasses. A mare sits on a swivel chair at the centre of the room working on a new choker design around the neck of a mannequin.
"Rarity, I'm here... I take it Larvali sent word we were coming over to sort out Erlöser's mask?" Rainbow Dash calls to the mare as they walk over to her.
The mare's coat is white, while her tail and mane are a dark purple. Her eyes are a light blue. She wears a purple summer dress with a pair of purple heels and black tights. "Of course darling, please come in. I just finished a new choker design with a magically compact mask within." Rarity slides the chair on its wheels over to Erlöser who looks nervous. Rarity looks Erlöser up and down examining him carefully. "Oh, do relax my dear, I'm nothing to be afraid of. Now, what kind of mask do you want? A compact, full face or full head mask?" Rarity asks as she stands up and begins to take his head measurements with a measuring tape.
"Umm... I think something compact might be better for me..." Erlöser states as Rarity finishes taking his measurements.
"I have the perfect design for you given what Larvali told me. Take a seat outside at the bar and I'll call you back when it's ready." Rarity tells the pair before ushering them out and closing the door.
"Well, she seems excited... Let's get a drink off Berry Punch, I could use something right now." Rainbow Dash states as she leads Erlöser to the bar and they sit down.
Berry Punch mixes two drinks for Erlöser and Rainbow Dash. She pours the drinks into whiskey glasses and places them onto the counter. Rainbow Dash picks her drink and takes a heavy mouthful before swallowing hard and letting out a satisfied sigh. "What's in this drink..?" Erlöser asks Berry Punch as he looks at the slightly blood red concoction in front of him.
"It's better you not know... You'll like it more if you don't." Berry Punch smiles at Erlöser and encourages him to drink the concoction.
Erlöser hesitantly takes a large sip of the drink and cringes a little at first before taking down more. Erlöser soon downs the entire whiskey glass to Rainbow Dash's surprise. "You seem to be pretty eager to drink that stuff Erlöser." Rainbow Dash states as she downs her own glass.
"It looks like blood but... It has an alcohol after taste and it tastes insanely good. The smell lingers in my senses and this unique sweet taste dances on my tongue like honey." Erlöser explains licking his lips.
"If it tastes that good you should already know what it is... For Ketsueki Kansen, nothing can replace the one thing we cannot live without... Blood. What you just drank is a mixture of donated blood and whiskey." Berry Punch states as she pours Erlöser another drink.
Erlöser again drinks the mixture like before. "I know... But, there is nothing I can do about what I am. I can't stop being a Ketsueki Kansen. Up to this point since Rainbow Dash saved I've just been taking things as they come... I truly won't be sad should I die but, if I don't enjoy this simple change in my life then..." Erlöser starts to explain but is cut short by Berry Punch.
"It's okay... I don't care much for your life before, just saying. What matters to any of us is what you do from this point on. Have another drink on me..." Berry Punch pours Erlöser another drink which he again downs easily but holds his head feeling a little light headed.
"Okay... Maybe I should of taken them a bit slower..." Erlöser states groaning as a sudden pain hits his head.
Berry Punch laughs and downs her own poured glass of the mixture. "I applaud your enthusiasm Erlöser. However, I don't think your quite ready to match me and Rainbow Dash in a drinking game." Berry Punch leans over the bar and pats Erlöser on the shoulder.
Rarity walks out of the back room and over to the trio. "Oh playing drinking games again Berry? I swear you will never learn. Anyway I have completed your mask Erlöser and I'm sure it's one of my finest yet." Erlöser turns to Rarity who begins fitting something around his neck.
Once Rarity is finished, Rainbow Dash and Berry Punch can see Erlöser is wearing a pure white leather choker with a blood red dragon head insignia on the front. Rarity holds up a mirror for Erlöser so he can see the choker. "I like it... Thank you, Rarity." Erlöser smiles at his new choker which makes Rainbow Dash show a slight grin.
"Larvali already paid me for the choker so don't worry about it, although I would have been happy to do it for free. There are too few good Ketsueki Kansen around these days." Rarity states before waving 'bye' and heading back to her workshop.
"Well, now that we have your mask let's get back home before it gets late out... This district is annoying at night." Rainbow Dash pays Berry Punch for the drinks and leaves with Erlöser following closely behind.
After several minutes of walking from the bar the pair have been unable to find a cab driver. "Damn town... I swear it's impossible for a girl to get a late night cab in this town." Rainbow Dash sighs deeply before stopping in front of an alleyway and smells the air a few times. "Buck... A damn frenzied rogue is out on the town. I swear the low ranks will never learn." Rainbow Dash runs down the alley closely followed by Erlöser.
Rainbow Dash turns a few corners and stops dead in her tracks as Erlöser bumps into her. Down the alley Erlöser can see a squirming Ketsueki Kansen lying on the floor under the boot of a male figure. The figure wears a white outfit with armour all over the torso, shoulders, legs and arms. On his head is a government elite helmet with a pitch black visor, so they can't see his face. He holds a large rifle pointing up into the air as he looks at the Ketsueki Kansen in question. Beside the male is a female figure in a similar government standard outfit and helmet carrying a handgun and a sword on her belt. Rainbow Dash turns around and hugs Erlöser tightly to her. "If you look past me, I swear I will beat you when we get home..." Rainbow Dash whispers to Erlöser before getting out her pocket knife and cutting her cheek. Rainbow Dash manipulates her blood to form a full head helmet which takes in and covers her hair.
"Is this the rogue we have been tracking?" The male voice asks before pointing his rifle at the squirming Ketsueki Kansen before pulling the trigger and blowing the Kansen's head into tiny pieces.
"I'd imagine so... Not that it matters much. Killing any of these monsters is a service to the citizens of Canterlot. Although, he does match the description HQ gave us... Least he did before you blew his head off, Spike." The female voice sounds annoyed at her partner.
"As you said it doesn't matter, Sunset Shimmer... Killing any of these beasts is a service to our government..." Spike looks in Rainbows direction and points his rifle at her. "Hey! You there... State your business being here!" Spike yells at Rainbow Dash who lets go slightly of Erlöser and takes a deep breath.
Rainbow Dash pushes the engraving on Erlöser's choker and it activates forming a dragon styled medieval helmet around his head, hiding his face. "If I should die... You bucking run..." Rainbow Dash turns around and cuts both her hands before sticking her knife into the ground. Manipulating her blood Rainbow Dash coats her hands and hardens her blood to form her gloves.
"Look out Spike! It's a Kansen!" Sunset Shimmer shouts pointing her handgun at Rainbow Dash firing a few shots.
Rainbow Dash pushes Erlöser to the side before ducking herself, dodging the bullets. Rainbow Dash spins on the spot, turning round to face the pair. She then kicks off the floor to propel herself towards them. Sunset Shimmer attempts to switch to her sword but is kicked hard in the stomach making her fly into, and dent the nearby alley wall. Spike manages to fire his rifle at Rainbow Dash catching her right upper arm leaving a deep wound, that doesn't seem to heal. Rainbow Dash jumps back before charging again at Spike who blocks her attacks with his rifle and kicks her away from him.
"You're the A rank Ketsueki Kansen... 'The Brawler'... You won't find me such an easy target compared to the others you have killed." Spike readies himself into a fighting position, putting up his fists.
Rainbow Dash smirks inside her helmet. "Bring it on then!" Rainbow Dash's voice is distorted to hide her voice.
Rainbow Dash speeds towards Spike and attempts a direct kick, but it is blocked by his arm. Spike grabs her leg and slams his other fist down into her knee joint. The impact causes her leg to break almost clean in two and Rainbow Dash wails in pain. Spike then proceeds to slam her into the alley walls repeatedly before throwing her across the floor. Rainbow Dash flips up onto her feet before stopping herself. Heavily panting she spits blood out from under her helmet before picking up her pocket knife and stabbing herself in her wounded arm. Rainbow Dash grits her teeth baring the pain before throwing the knife next to Erlöser, who watches her in horror. "Is that all you bucking government bastards have?! Is that all you have to throw at us?!" Rainbow Dash sprints forth the best she can and prepares to punch spike with her one good hand.
"Disgusting creatures like you have no place in this world! It's time you were judged in Tartarus!" Spike yells as he grabs Rainbow Dash's fist and tightens his grip enough so he breaks her hand.
Spike lets go to grab her wrist. With his other hand again he breaks Rainbow Dash's arm like her leg. Spike then lands a direct blow into Rainbow Dash's stomach which makes her cough up a lot of blood. Sunset Shimmer finally gets up from being winded as spike lets Rainbow Dash fall onto the floor.
"Fucking bitch..." Sunset Shimmer looks towards Erlöser and tilts her head. "Hey, are you alright?" Sunset can see Erlöser watching them in shock, shaking and breathing heavily while staring at Rainbow Dash.
"He is wearing a Kansen mask... We deal with him next after this one..." Spike states as he brandishes a slightly thicker sword than Sunset Shimmer's. They both look in Erlöser's direction confused as they can hear speaking.
"This... This isn't right... Why..? It was all going well wasn't it..? Hey... Get up, this isn't funny... Rainbow..?" Erlöser mumbles to himself while holding his head.
"... You want to save her..?"
"Of course I want to..! But, I'm too weak to do anything!"
"Accept me... Let me in and together... We can save her..."
"Who are you..?"
"I am you... And then I am not..."
"... What does that mean..? How can I trust you..?"
"You can't... However, right now... What choice do you have..?"
"You are me... And I am you..?"
"We are each other... At the same time we are ourselves..."
"... I wan't to save her... Help me..."
"As you desire... Brother..."
Erlöser picks up Rainbow Dash's knife and the mouth of his helmet opens to allow him to lick her blood off the knife. Erlöser drops her knife and swallows the blood.
"This Kansen is really annoying... Can we deal with him first?" Sunset Shimmer pleads Spike.
Before Spike can answer, Erlöser groans and stands up. The mouth of his helmet slams shut and it begins to shift and morph into a much more sinister looking dragon helmet. Erlöser spreads his wings and sprints forth from his position suddenly at spike who blocks Erlöser with his sword. "Shit! What rank are you?!" Spike, with his free hand grabs Erlöser's choker and rips it off causing the helmet to disperse into vapour. Once the vapour clears Spike's eyes widen inside his helmet as he see's Erlöser's face. Erlöser's eyes have changed to an enraged blood red and some of his teeth have morphed into sharp fangs. Erlöser's right eye is now in the style of a dragon. "What in the name of Celestia are you?!" Spike's arm holding his sword is suddenly cut off by Erlöser's newly formed right arm blade. The blade starts at the base of his lower arm and extends forth till the tip of the sword.
"Spike!" Sunset Shimmer attempts to strike Erlöser but instead is blocked. Erlöser holds her blade effortlessly in his mouth. Sunset Shimmer's eyes widen at the sight before her of Erlöser. Spike quickly picks up his damaged rifle and tries to fire at Erlöser. The shot blows off Erlöser's left arm making him growl at Spike like an adult dragon.
"This... This is impossible! You are impossible!" Spike yells at Erlöser who bites through and breaks Sunset shimmer's sword in half.
Erlöser looks at his left shoulder where his arm used to be and begins growling loud in pain before a new arm shoots out replacing it. Erlöser's new arm has very sharp looking dragon claws for his nails. Erlöser, with seemingly increased speed grabs Spike by the neck and breaks his helmet so he can see his face. Spikes eyes are wide and filled with terror, as Erlöser rips off his arm holding his rifle and throws it to the side. Spike then begins screaming in pain as Erlöser grabs both sides of him and, with some degree of difficulty, he rips Spike into two pieces straight down the middle.
"Spike, no!" Sunset Shimmer screams in horror at Erlöser who throws the two halves away onto the floor like trash.
Sunset Shimmer begins to run, stumbling a little bit but is soon pounced upon by Erlöser who proceeds to tear into Sunset's chest and stomach ripping her apart with no mercy. Using his fangs he tears into her face ravenously. After she stops moving entirely, clearly dead, Erlöser slides off Sunset Shimmer's ripped apart and defiled corpse. He then crawls over to Rainbow Dash's broken body as he slowly morphs back. His fangs retreat back to normal teeth, his claw morphs back into a normal hand, finally his eyes return to their normal state and blood red colour. Erlöser lies down and cuddles up to Rainbow Dash before catching a glimpse of someone entering the alley. A female figure steps into Erlöser's blurred view, she is kinda slim and has a very playful demeanour about her.
"You're causing a lot of trouble for a newly awoken Kansen... Mother will be intrigued~" A young girl's voice is heard before Erlöser loses conciousness and collapses against Rainbow Dash.
Author's Note
I hope you all enjoyed this chapter. I know what many of you are thinking... Still too fast? No, the pace is exactly how it is meant to be for now. I might slow it down a little bit but things are still developing between me and my co-author in terms of characters and plot. I did put a warning in the description for lots of blood and dismemberment.
I pray this chapter does well although, the likes to dislikes confuses me... It's not exactly a bad story and has room for potential. Please comment on what you feel about the story and how I might develop it. Ideas and theories are always welcome.
Erlöser quickly opens his eyes and sits up drenched in a cold sweat. He holds his arm out in front of him, which was severed but grew back, and inspected his hand. All seemed normal again. "Was it just a dream..?" Erlöser ponders as he lays back down and looks beside him to see Rainbow Dash. She is wearing the same clothes she wore when they visited the bar.
"It was certainly no dream little Kansen~" A playful voice suddenly comes from Erlöser's left.
Erlöser looks to his left and can see sitting on a sofa is a changeling girl. She has dark green eyes, a long mane and tail, both of which are a blueish-green. Her skin is the normal changeling black. The changeling girl wears tight looking green hot pants, green sneakers, a black T-shirt and a dark green jacket like Rainbow Dash's.
"What do you mean that was no dream? There is no way I-" Erlöser stops himself as flashbacks from the event flood his mind and his eyes widen.
"Oh, believe me, you tore those Pathogen bastards a new one. Sunset Shimmer's death I enjoyed watching most... How you pounced her and tore into her body without mercy... How you ripped her face apart with your teeth~" The girl jumps off the sofa and walks over to Erlöser before bending over and stroking his cheek playfully. "Watching that bloody mess made me so wet... It's a shame you're living under papa currently... Else I'd pounce you and claim you for my own~" The girl chuckles and walks back to the sofa, swaying her hips at Erlöser.
"I... Umm... I see... What happened after I passed out?" Erlöser asks while blushing deeply at the girl.
The girl crosses her legs. "Well, firstly my name is Verdammnis. As for after you passed out... Well, after I finished my... 'Surveillance' of the scene... I called mother and had our Diamond Dogs help me extract you and bring you to our hideout." Verdammnis playfully informs Erlöser.
"Wait... What you said before 'living under papa'. Are you Larvali's daughter?" Erlöser asks puzzled.
"Bingo little Kansen, I am indeed Larvali's daughter and you will never believe who my mother is~" Verdammnis jumps up onto the sofa and points dramatically. "None other than Queen Chrysalis the changeling queen herself~" Verdammnis flops back down on the sofa making dust puff out of the cushions.
Erlöser sighs deeply before Rainbow Dash stirs from her sleep and sits up. "Erlöser... What happened? I remember fighting that Pathogen thug..." Rainbow Dash moves her limbs to find she is fully healed. "Where are we? How did we get here?" Rainbow Dash looks confused.
Verdammnis sighs deeply before explaining everything to the pair. What happened in the alleyway down to every gruesome detail. The fact they were moved to their secret hideout in Appleloosa and that Larvali has finally found them to bring Rainbow Dash and Erlöser back home. Finally, she explained how long the pair have been out recovering.
"So, you see... You two were asleep for two weeks after that incident. Pathogen is proper pissed that two government died so easily... Oh yes, mother wants to talk to you Erlöser... You interest her a lot~" Verdammnis stands up as she hears arguing from the room's wooden door.
"I tracked you down to take back my people! Not to 'play' around Chrysalis..."
"Oh dear, do lighten up. You know that face of yours will wrinkle if you frown so much."
"Must you tease me so much? You know why we don't stay together right now... I never actually left our relationship..."
"Who said I'm mad about that? How could I possibly be mad about that..?"
"It's written all over your body and face Chrysalis... You know why I made that choice... I still love you."
"... I know..."
Verdammnis gets Erlöser and Rainbow Dash out of bed before making them go into the main living room where everyone is through the wooden door. Chrysalis is standing up talking to Larvali. Vinyl Scratch is lying on the sofa by the TV listening to music. A muscled stallion like the one that attacked him that first night stands against the bedroom door. They are pale yellow, their mane and tail are a bright blood red and their eyes are also a bright blood red. He wears a pair of dark red trousers, a black T-shirt and a dark blood red jacket.
"We will discuss this later, okay dear..? I'm glad to see you are awake. When my daughter found you it was difficult to tell who was more vicious. Rainbow Dash with her moaning and complaining about her wounds, or your feisty Kansen fighting spirit... You killed two of my Diamond Dogs before Verdammnis had some fun and stepped in..." Chrysalis explains.
Verdammnis licks a cut on the back of her hand which hasn't healed. "You cut me very good... It's taking it's time to heal... I love a wild powerful Kansen~" Verdammnis seductively states.
Erlöser bows his head to Chrysalis. "I'm very sorry for the trouble... I'm not entirely sure what happened that night... It's all very hazy at best." Erlöser says feeling sad.
"Well, I need to sort some things out with Chrysalis, so please wait for me here." Larvali states as he takes Chrysalis to a nearby room.
Rainbow Dash looks at the stallion and looks intrigued. "So, what's your name supposed to be?"
"Shimmer..." The stallion answers in a calm deep voice.
Rainbow Dash looks unsure how to react. "Umm... That's a very... Masculine name..." Rainbow Dash squees with an awkward smile.
"Shouldn't be..." Shimmer states.
"I don't know how to talk to you..." Rainbow Dash shuffles away from Shimmer cautiously.
Shimmer taps Erlöser's shoulder making him turn around. "Would you like some pie? I'm good at making pie." Shimmer smiles warmly at Erlöser.
"I'm... I'm fine... Thank you anyway..." Erlöser politely declines.
Vinyl Scratch jumps off the sofa and takes off her headphones to hang around her neck. "So, how does it feel to finally kill someone as a Kansen?" Vinyl Scratch leans in close to Erlöser's face.
"I'm... I'm not quite sure... I know what I did in that alleyway... I just don't feel it was me who killed them..." Erlöser wears a perplexed expression as he ponders the incident.
Vinyl Scratch sighs deeply and eases out from Erlöser's face. "Well, you will find out eventually... Even if you don't want to the government wont wait for you to roll over. At that point it's kill or be killed... Remember that." Vinyl Scratch lectures Erlöser, before exiting the room via a different door to Larvali and Chrysalis.
After several minutes Larvali and Chrysalis exit the room they went into. Chrysalis is smirking widely at Larvali who sighs and straightens his jacket. "I've said it many times... You seriously need to control your sex drive..." Larvali glances at Chrysalis who tries to look innocent.
"When I hardly see you at all and we are in a relationship it's difficult to find the proper... Release for a mare's stress... Maybe if you stayed with me rather then run off all the time..." Chrysalis states while pouting at Larvali.
"You... I'm not going through this again Chrysalis... You know why this is what it is." Larvali rolls his eyes before giving Chrysalis a piece of paper with numbers written on it. "My new number... Call me if you want, perhaps we could meet more often..." Larvali looks at Chrysalis with one eye closed trying not to appear soft.
"Hmm you give in way too much to me-" Chrysalis is cut short by Larvali.
"However, I swear to Celestia if you give my number out to a group of big, gay, Spanish, body builders again or anyone for that matter... I will be done with you... As much as I love you and our daughter I ain't dealing with that shit again..."
Chrysalis slides up closely alongside Larvali and licks his ear. "Oh don't worry, that was... Just small frustration when you left us the first time... I'll be a good changeling queen for you... Dear." Chrysalis whispers into Larvali's ear making him shiver.
Larvali clears his throat before looking at Erlöser. "I'm glad to see you're alright, Erlöser. When you and Rainbow never came home... Needless to say I worried. There is a lot to do back at the store so we are returning to Canterlot today."
Larvali exits the room with Chrysalis. Verdammnis and Shimmer follow soon after. Rainbow Dash walks up to Erlöser. "H-hey... Even though I made him soft for ya... You technically saved my life back in that alley, so um... Thanks." Rainbow Dash pecks Erlöser on the cheek before exiting the room like the others.
"I don't even know what I did..." Erlöser stares at his hand for a minute. He then exits the room out the same door as Rainbow Dash.
As Erlöser exits the hideout he climbs a set of stairs to find himself in a western style saloon. Vinyl Scratch is sitting at the bar drinking some form of blood red cocktail. Erlöser walks over and sits beside Vinyl Scratch.
"So umm... How are we getting home?" Erlöser asks Vinyl who is leaning with her back against the bar.
"I'm driving us of course. It'd help if Larvali ever bloody drove us anywhere, but no... I'm the only bucking one with a damn license..." Vinyl Scratch knocks back two shot glasses.
"If you are driving shouldn't you take it easy on the alcohol?" Erlöser looks at the collection of five shot glasses on the counter.
"You're starting to sound like my mother... I think. Depends if my mother was a guy... Were they a guy..? I honestly can't remember..." Vinyl Scratch ponders that thought before drinking a sixth shot glass.
"I see... So, what are these drinks made from?" The barman pours Erlöser a shot using the same drink as Vinyl Scratch and slides it to him.
"It's a mixture of blood and vodka, one of my finest blends if I do say so myself." The barman smiles as he then goes to serve other customers.
Erlöser drinks the shot like Vinyl Scratch did and his eyes widen. "... Why is it all the good Ketsueki Kansen drinks are all mixed with alcohol..? Even though I've drunk alcohol on it's own before and hated it... For some reason when you add blood it tastes so damn good... Although I prefer Berry Punch's whiskey-blood blend to this vodka blend, but it's still delicious." Erlöser smiles.
"Hey... I've got a question for you... Do you have a girlfriend? I mean you and Rainbow are pretty close." Vinyl Scratch knocks back another two glasses.
"W-what? No, no... I've nothing like that. Rainbow Dash is more or less an idol and mentor to me... I can't deny it would be nice to be in a relationship with her after all she has done for me. However, I wont fool myself... She is more than a handful." Erlöser chuckles nervously at Vinyl Scratch's question.
Vinyl Scratch downs one more shot glass before standing up. "I see... If you want something I'd suggest you go and get it. This life we lead is too short sometimes to have regrets... One day your fine and dandy, the next your getting cut down by someone either from the government or another Kansen... Just don't have regrets, okay?" Vinyl Scratch leaves the saloon followed by Erlöser.
When the two are outside Erlöser can see that their surroundings are that of Appleloosa. Just in front of the bar is a pure white four-seater convertible car, the tires have decals of eighth notes on the rims. The rest of the car follows the same decal design as Vinyl Scratch's Equestria girls car minus the hood ornament.
"Vinyl, is that your car?" Erlöser asks looking at vinyl who simply nods.
Standing by the car is Larvali and Chrysalis. Shimmer and Verdammnis are nowhere to be seen. Rainbow Dash is sitting in the back seat behind the driver's seat. Erlöser and Vinyl Scratch make their way over to the car.
"Well, it's time to get you both home now. Chrysalis it has been... Nice to see you again, with luck we can meet again soon." Larvali states.
"I look forward to it my dear. Please do try and not vanish on me again..." Chrysalis kisses Larvali on the cheek slightly.
Erlöser gets in the back next to Rainbow Dash but before the others can enter the car a loud voice is heard from the distance. "Don't even think about driving away you varmints! Chrysalis, you and your posse can't escape the law this time!" Everyone looks in front of the car in the distance is two government dressed agents. One of them is more bulky then the other and wears a sheriff's star on his outfit.
"Oh joy, it's the fucking government... Damn rats..." Chrysalis grits her teeth.
"Rainbow Dash and Erlöser you duck down and hide your faces, Vinyl Scratch you can also hide somewhere... Chrysalis and I shall deal with them..." Larvali orders the three who comply and do as told.
Chrysalis and Larvali begin walking towards the government pairing. "It almost seems like you're asking me on a date~ We haven't killed anyone as a pair in a long time... You always know how to make me fall for you all over again..." Chrysalis looks at Larvali with seductive eyes.
"You need to see a doctor about your libido... On a separate note, I figure it's been too long since I got my hands dirty... Surviving in this world is great, but nothing will change if we don't do something... That said, I'm still not joining Heilung." Larvali activates the mark on his headphones after putting them on properly. The headphones expand and create a helmet over his head, much like Cecil's from Final Fantasy IV. Chrysalis doesn't bother with a mask as they know her already.
Larvali holds his hand to Chrysalis who cuts it with a pocket knife. "You still don't like to hurt yourself? You really haven't changed... I like that..." Chrysalis smiles as Larvali begins to manipulate his blood to cover his whole body from his neck all the way down to his boots. His blood then hardens after taking the same armour design as Cecil and turns black. In his hand he also forms Cecil's black knight sword and grips the handle tightly.
The two government are shocked and stumble slightly. "Sheriff Silverstar... T-that's the SSS rank Kansen... 'Blood Knight'... He hasn't been seen in several years." The less bulky government agent sounds very shaken.
"Calm yourself Braeburn... Even if we die here today someone else will avenge us... Our duty demands we not let them leave this town alive!" Sheriff Silverstar draws two medium sized long-swords and prepares himself. Braeburn takes a deep breath and nods before drawing his own weapons which are a pair of colt revolvers.
"Let's see what you've got Blood Knight! Show me your burning resolve!" Sheriff Silverstar yells as he and Larvali charge fiercely at each other while Braeburn charges at Chrysalis.
Vinyl Scratch jumps over the rooftop of a nearby building to land in the street on the other side. "I should be able to wait here till they finish their little match..?" Vinyl Scratch turns to her left to see a government female agent playing a soothing melody on a double bass, while leaning against a wall. The mare's coat is a goldish grey, her mane is dark grey with lighter streaks in it and her eyes are a greyish mulberry. Vinyl Scratch walks over to her and leans against a post of the building next to the wall.
"Hmm? I didn't expect anyone to be out here given the order to stay inside while the Kansen are dealt with." The mare states giving Vinyl Scratch an odd look.
"You could say... Kansen don't bother me much." Vinyl Scratch gives her an awkward smile.
"Octavia, a pleasure to meet you miss..?" Octavia pauses for Vinyl Scratch's introduction.
"Vinyl Scratch... What is your view on Kansen? I assume since you're a government agent you hate them?" Vinyl Scratch asks Octavia who continues her performance.
"Hmm while I am a member of Pathogen, if a fellow comrade were to ask me then yes, I'd hate them... However, since you are not and you have an... Interesting feel about you I will admit I find them interesting. Being able to wield your blood opens up new opportunities and chances to do things normal equines can't." Octavia looks at Vinyl Scratch and examines her.
"You're the first government agent I've heard say such a thing... I guess with all your training you know I'm a Kansen then?" Vinyl Scratch swallows hard hoping Octavia doesn't know.
"Even with all our training it's impossible to directly tell who is a Kansen... However, from what you said I assume you're not lying about yourself being a Kansen... I could attack you right now, but from how you are dressed and from your figure I assume you are the A rank Kansen known as... 'Back Beat'... You are quite infamous around Pathogen among many other high ranked Kansen." Octavia smiles at Vinyl Scratch who doesn't know how to react.
"So are you going to attack me..? If possible I'd like to avoid a fight with you so I can get out of here when my friend is done nearby." Vinyl Scratch hopes as she stares at Octavia who stops playing her double bass.
Octavia lifts Vinyl Scratch's chin up using her playing bow and smiles. "I was sent along with them as insurance... If I'm honest I care little for the majority of my comrades which includes those two on the other side of these buildings. I know they will lose and that leaves me behind to fabricate whatever report I wish... I already prepared a report to hand in even if it will require minor fixing." Octavia licks her lips and takes her bow away from Vinyl Scratch's chin.
"What will you report about me? Two of my companions you know nothing about being here... Which just leaves 'The Blood Knight' and Queen Chrysalis who isn't with our group..." Vinyl Scratch looks slightly worried.
Octavia licks Vinyl Scratch's cheek playfully and pushes away from the wall. "I'll keep you out of the report so long as you fulfill such a simple request... You see, I have always wanted to date a Kansen... However, male Kansen are so... Unruly, bloody, fight so much and are simply unappealing... So, a female Kansen partner would be ideal and given your reputation I believe you are what I am looking for." Octavia smiles while Vinyl Scratch ponders what to do.
"Okay... I've never been with a government chick before... However, I feel like this might not be as bad as I think it will. I'll be your marefriend and you keep me out of the report..." Vinyl Scratch smiles nervously at Octavia.
"Excellent, now all I want is to talk till they finish their fight~" Octavia sings before Vinyl Scratch sits with her on the steps of a nearby building.
Meanwhile the fight between Braeburn and Sheriff Silverstar V.S Queen Chrysalis and Larvali was not going well for the government. Braeburn's fight with Chrysalis ended with him being brutally dismembered and splayed across the ground. Sheriff Silverstar has been moderately holding his own against Larvali, Chrysalis is sitting on a crate nearby licking her bloody hands clean.
"Darling, have you not finished him off yet? I figured the SSS rank 'Blood Knight' would be enough to handle Sheriff Silverstar... Don't tell me you have lost your touch?" Chrysalis sounds disappointed.
Larvali jumps away from Sheriff Silverstar and chuckles slightly. "Dear Chrysalis, must you make such assumptions... I was simply sparring with him to get back into the swing of things. Seeing as you're bored I might as well end it now." Larvali begins manipulating his blood sword to form a new sword.
"W-what?! You were toying with me?!" Sheriff Silverstar stands shocked and swallows hard.
Larvali morphs his sword into Cloud's sword from Final Fantasy VII and grips the handle with both hands. "Sorry to say but I was... I'm the SSS rank Kansen 'The Blood Knight'. Do you expect me to be so easy..? Know your place Sheriff Silverstar!" Larvali yells as he sprints off the spot and charges at Sheriff Silverstar. The Sheriff quickly gets into a defence position but it's too late. Larvali cuts straight through the mid section of Sheriff Silverstar and once past him does a twirl on the spot to decapitate him further. Sheriff Silverstar falls onto the floor clearly dead.
Larvali disperses his blood armour and weapon taking his blood back into his body. Chrysalis walks over to Larvali as he walks towards the car. "That was much better, my love. I hoped you had not gotten soft on me." Chrysalis kisses Larvali's cheek. Upon reaching the car Rainbow Dash and Erlöser sit up from their crouching positions.
"Is it over now Larvali?" Erlöser asks looking slightly nervous.
"If I'm honest with you... It has only just begun. We have a lot of work to do when we return to Canterlot." Larvali states looking at the pair.
Vinyl Scratch walks over to the car after jumping over the rooftop of some nearby buildings. "We leaving yet? This country setting gets sand everywhere..." Vinyl Scratch gets into the driver's seat of her car and starts up the engine. Rainbow Dash and Erlöser put on their seatbelts.
"So, you're leaving then... Such a shame if I'm honest darling... We will be more active in the Canterlot area in the coming months. I hope you will make time for my visits, Larvali. You and I will spend much more time together from now on... Plus, Verdammnis misses her father so she will be coming with me. See you soon." Chrysalis gives Larvali a kiss before walking off in the opposite direction.
Larvali gets in the shotgun seat of the car and lays his head back against the seat once his seatbelt is in. "That woman... Heilung will be more active from now on... Be more careful you three..." Larvali closes his eyes to think.
"Alright, hope you all enjoy the ride. If ya don't it's not like I give a damn." Vinyl Scratch declares as she slams the car into gear and speeds off past Chrysalis heading out of Appleloosa.
Chrysalis leaps up onto a nearby roof and watches the group drive away from Appleoosa. Shimmer, Verdammnis and a Gryphon female stand with her. "After today we work to take back our freedom... Blood will be spilled and lives will be destroyed... It's time Heilung got their hands very bloody..." Chrysalis states before laughing sinisterly and manically.
Author's Note
Finally able to get the pre-read done for this chapter. I hate not being able to get my chapters pre-read but today Skype decided to work so I jumped at the chance. I hope you all enjoy this chapter and the entrance of the evil Kansen organisation. Next chapter will focus on the government's point of view among other things.
The moon hangs high in the sky above Canterlot. In the north district of the city sits a large night club with a bright, purple glowing neon sign saying 'Bakkubito' . Inside the club Vinyl Scratch is standing behind a set of turn tables, spinning some music records and playing music for the club. The club itself has three floors. There is the ground floor where the dance floor is located along with a public bar. The second floor is where more refined bars and tables can be found along with Vinyl Scratch's DJ stand. Lastly the third floor is Vinyl Scratch's VIP booth which overlooks the entire club. Octavia is sitting at a wall booth sipping a piña colada with Erlöser sitting opposite her.
"So... Umm... How long have you been dating Vinyl?" Erlöser asks sheepishly sipping his soda.
Octavia puts down her glass and sits back looking at Vinyl Scratch who is still on her turn tables, spinning music records with her headphones on. "Hmm I'd say about three weeks... We started in Appleloosa after she jumped over some buildings. Do you have a partner?" Octavia returns the question as she picks up her glass and takes a sip.
"Oh I don't... I haven't really had time to think about having a relationship given how hectic my life has turned lately..." Erlöser sips his soda blushing as he thinks.
Vinyl Scratch walks over and sits down next to Erlöser with a bottle of vodka-blood mix. "I've been spinning discs all night. I let Neon Lights take over for a bit while I relax with you guys. You having fun Octavia?" Vinyl Scratch asks as she leans over and kisses Octavia gently.
"Well, while this place is not my normal... How would you say... Scene? I am, however, enjoying myself quite a bit here with you. Talking to Erlöser is somewhat interesting, though he is a rather shy boy which I find cute." Octavia smiles gently at Vinyl Scratch and Erlöser.
Vinyl Scratch chuckles slightly and nudges Erlöser's arm. "You will never get a girlfriend being shy like that, haha. On a separate note, Octavia would you like to see the VIP room above the club?" Vinyl Scratch offers before standing up.
"Hmm sure, that sounds interesting. What about you, Erlöser?" Octavia asks Erlöser who finishes his soda and also stands up.
"I think I'm going to get some fresh air... Excuse me." Erlöser leaves the two alone who begin walking to the VIP lounge. While Erlöser heads to the back door and out into the alleyway beside the club. He then leans against the wall opposite the club door and throws up a little before sliding down the wall into a sitting position.
"You see, this is what happens when you don't have the right blood intake... You get ill, bloody moron."
Erlöser looks around while breathing heavily. "S-shut up... I just haven't gotten used to drinking blood yet... I keep forgetting..." Erlöser states while closing his eyes.
"You will end up in a hospital if you keep 'forgetting'... Or worse dying due to lack of sustenance... If that happens I do too so pack this shit in..."
"I still don't even know who the hell you are let alone why I should trust you... You killed those two government agents!"
"They were going to kill both you and Rainbow Dash... Don't act all fucking innocent with me... You were the one who desired them to die, wanted them to leave Rainbow Dash alone... I simply did as you wanted... Brother"
"I have no brother... I'm an only child as far as I know and what would my brother's voice be doing in my head anyway..? Who the hell are you?!" Erlöser picks himself up and leans against the wall slowly recovering.
"Oh, now that is fucking childish... Wake the fuck up Erlöser! You are no saint... What you are, what we are... We are both destined for a road dripping with blood... You will learn eventually that we need each other... You will learn eventually what and who you are... What and who we both are..."
Erlöser stands up and breathes deeply. "Get the fuck out of my head! I have no brother! I am a Pegasus and I won't spill any more blood!" Erlöser screams into the air before leaning over feeling ill again.
"You're a loud little bitch..." A mysterious male voice states from behind Erlöser.
Erlöser doesn't even get time to turn around before he is struck on the back of the head and knocked out. Erlöser falls to his knees then fully onto the floor. "You look like a suitable partner for her... I should get you out of here quickly." The shady male pony picks up Erlöser and throws him over his shoulder before leaving the alleyway.
After several hours Erlöser slowly opens his eyes and sits up rubbing the back of his head. "W-where am I?" Erlöser looks around the unfamiliar, dimly lit and slightly damp room. There are two candle stick holders on each wall, which are the only light source in the room. Erlöser can vaguely make out a bed made of straw, which just peeks out of the darkness on the left side of the room. On the straw bed Erlöser can just barely make out a naked female pony leg, his heart skips up a beat realising he is not alone. Suddenly a pair of blood red eyes open in the darkness near the leg.
"Did that lumbering fool bring you in here..? I suppose that means you're dinner then... Sucks to be you if I'm honest." The female's voice sounds tough and gives off a 'don't fuck with me vibe'. Out of the darkness an odd looking pale, light greyish gold female pony with a rough styled pale, light greyish rose mane and tail. The ponies ears and wings are bat like, with her wings being the same colour as her body. The pony is also only wearing a pale, light greyish rose coloured bikini top with a matching bikini thong. Her cutie mark, which is visible, is three bats in the same colour as her hair. She looks Erlöser over and crawls over to him putting her face close to his sniffing him carefully. "Hmm you smell like just an E rank Kansen and you're eyes are hardly tainted red... I wonder what you taste like." The pony moves Erlöser's jacket and his shirt so she is able to bite his neck with her vampire fangs.
"W-what are you doing..?" Erlöser squeaks out as he feels her softly suck his blood. He knows he should resist and push her away yet his body betrays his mind and remains still in her presence.
After several seconds the pony suddenly lets go and stares into Erlöser's eyes in shock, blood slightly dripping from her mouth. "Y-you... You're appearance... How you carry yourself... Your entire demeanour... How can someone so... Untainted and pure have such high grade and sweet blood running through their veins..." The pony without a word lets herself lay against and cuddle up to Erlöser. He blushes deeply not knowing what to do as he feels her chest press against him. "Fluttershy... That's my normal name... Although like this in my Kansen form I'm known as Flutterbat... Who are you?" Flutterbat's voice and attitude have changed towards Erlöser, they now seem more soft and gentle compared to the rough and tough attitude before in the darkness.
"Umm... My name is Erlöser..." Erlöser can't help but feel comfortable and relax a little.
"Hmm... Erlöser... I think I will choose you to be my partner... Likely that's why you're here to begin with. I doubt he would just pick someone up fresh from the street to be dinner..." Flutterbat breathes in deeply making special note of Erlöser's scent.
A knock comes from the only door into the room and the same voice from the alleyway can be heard. "Flutterbat, there is a fight coming up... Rank D 'violent slicer' is favourite to win... You want to participate?" The male voice sounds more nervous then when Erlöser heard it in the alleyway.
Flutterbat hisses at the door. "I had hoped we wouldn't be disturbed... I'd really like you to take this fight for me... I'm currently unable to fight at all." Flutterbat requests Erlöser who looks hesitant, but for some reason nods. "He will fight in my place." The door opens and a changeling wearing a suit walks in and takes Erlöser out of the room before closing the door again.
"I umm hope you aren't too badly hurt from that blow to the head?" The changeling asks as he leads Erlöser through some stone wall hallways.
"Umm It doesn't hurt too bad anymore..." Erlöser looks around unsure of where he is.
The changeling leads Erlöser down some steps to a gathering area and over to a table where two other changelings are sitting also wearing suits. "You see my name is Winston and that guy on the right is Jules the other is Nigel, the guy you will be fighting has a rather mean streak but the bits for his take down are very good." Winston explains with a smile.
Jules sighs deeply before speaking. "However... What Winston here failed to deduce was our lady's willingness to fight... She has seemed very distant of late, lacking a romantic partner has dawned on her a bit. Thus we come to the reason why you are here... Winston just decided to grab you, right off the street! Although, seeing as you're alive maybe she likes you."
Erlöser looks confused. "Wait... So she isn't a slave? I mean how she dresses and her living conditions... I assumed she-" Erlöser is cut off by Nigel.
"What? No no, she is our mistress since we left the hive. We are all rank D and fight as a trio, the fight against 'Violent slicer' is a one on one so we wondered if Lady Flutterbat wanted to fight him." Nigel informs Erlöser.
"However, it seems she sent you in her place so she must have faith in you... I hope you win otherwise, well... Dying is pretty much the worst of your problems." Jules jokes as Erlöser's face pales slightly as he realises his mistake.
Winston begins leading the slightly unresponsive Erlöser down to the arena fighter area where they gather. Meanwhile back up in the normal gathering area above the arena at the most elevated seats which are two thrones, that have two seats either side of them. Sitting on the throne to the left is a mare wearing a long scarlet red dress which shows a lot of cleavage and blood red silk gloves. Her coat is a dull crimson while her mane and tail are midnight blue with black highlights.
"You have changed very little since my last visit... Veronica a.k.a 'The Bloody Red Queen'." Princess Luna suddenly sits down in the throne beside Veronica and she smiles.
"Ah Princess Luna, I did wonder when I would see you again. I take it you're well?" Veronica pours Princess Luna a glass of blood. Princess Luna takes the glass with thanks and relaxes.
"Must you tease me by using my full title..? After all down here are you not also the same..? 'Queen of the arena'..." Princess Luna smirks at veronica and settles in to watch two E rank Kansen fight in the arena below.
"Is your pride and joy with you this evening? I do enjoy watching that fox fight in the arena, he does make some really good money and renown for us." Veronica smiles and sips her own blood glass.
"He is around... You know my baby can hardly sit still when he is here." Princess Luna chuckles slightly.
It's now 4:30AM and Vinyl Scratch's nightclub is still packed while the mare herself is in the VIP lounge upstairs. The square archway sofa's sit near the double door entrance to the VIP lounge. On the sofa is a slightly drunk looking Vinyl Scratch cuddling up to Octavia.
"You enjoy cuddling when you're drunk, don't you Vinyl..." Octavia states as she runs her fingers gently through Vinyl Scratch's mane.
"I'm not drunk... Just because I consumed around three bottles of blood-whiskey and two bottles of blood-vodka plus a few glasses of blood-piña colada... Does not make me drunk... It just lowers my functions slightly." Vinyl Scratch defiantly states burying her face into Octavia's chest softly.
Neon Lights suddenly bursts into the room looking panicked. "Boss we have a problem!" Neon Lights looks around the room and is met with a pissed off looking Vinyl Scratch who is kneeling on the sofa above Octavia to talk to Neon Lights.
"What could possibly be wrong..? I thought you had the club handled..." Vinyl Scratch raises one eyebrow at Neon Lights who looks more nervous.
"Well, you see the club is fine. It's more or less... Well, you know how you put me in charge of looking after Erlöser while you spent time in here with Octavia... I was watching him when you came up here then he... Umm well..." Neon Lights stumbles over his words slightly.
"For buck sake 'Turn Tables' spit it out!" Vinyl Scratch yells at Neon Lights who snaps to attention.
"Erlöser never came back from his trip outside! Security has been looking for hours and have found no trace of him!" Neon Lights screams out at Vinyl Scratch whose eyes widen.
"I gave you one simple bucking job and you screwed it up! Get the buck back to the club, I will handle this myself!" Vinyl Scratch states to Neon Lights who sprints away from the VIP lounge back to the DJ stand.
"Vinyl darling... Please calm down, I will make a small call to someone who owes me a lot of favours for their promotion... We will find Erlöser, okay?" Octavia brings Vinyl Scratch back down to lay on top of her and cuddle.
"I was relaxing... Of all the damn things to happen... I hope that kid is alright, Larvali will lecture me badly if I let him get hurt..." Vinyl buries her face in Octavia's chest again and groans annoyingly.
Erlöser is being walked up a corridor by Jules to a gate where beyond looks like the arena. Jules places his hand on Erlöser's shoulder and sighs. "You remember what we told ya right? All you gotta do is knock him out somehow and the match is yours." Jules nervously chuckles.
"Don't I get some form of weapon for this?" Erlöser asks swallowing hard.
Jules rubs the back of his neck and sighs. "Our blood is our weapon... They don't give weapons to Kansen fighters... You will just have to fight him with what you got." Jules begins walking back down the corridor and the gate in front of Erlöser opens up. Erlöser nervously walks out into the arena to see several ponies watching from above. Opposite Erlöser a pony of a similar slim build walks out of the other gate and cracks their neck.
"You're next? Is this a fucking joke? Oh well sucks to be you..." The pony forms large arm blades which cover his whole lower arms like something from Prototype 2. "My name doesn't matter since you will be dead soon... Just call me 'Violent Slicer'... It's the last name you will ever know!" The pony is covered from head to hoof in a thick looking black leather armour, his mane and tail are a bright blood red.
"Ladies and gentlecolts, it's time to clap your hands together and stomp your hoofs for the underground Canterlot arena! Now we have a special here today, on one side is the esteemed killing machine the 'Violent Slicer'! On the other is a new challenger backed by Lady Flutterbat... It's the one the only... Am I reading this right..? Well okay if that's what his title is..." The announcer clears his throat and resumes. "Sorry for the delay! Facing the 'Violent Slicer' is the one the only... 'Dragon ravager'!"
"So what's your plan now..? We are here like you wanted... You agreed to help this girl who needed no help... What's your solution to our mess?"
"I don't know... I have trained with Rainbow and Vinyl, but... I don't yet know how to wield my blood like they can... I've yet to kill anyone myself..."
"So you want to actually take a life? Brother... You have no need to bloody your hands when I am here to bloody mine in your stead..."
"I don't want to be protected like a child anymore! People I care for all around me are fighting while I do nothing, but let you fight for me! I want to be able to fight... I need to fight... Please help me..."
"If that is your true choice... I will do all I can, however... You will need to spill his blood yourself... I can teach you how to make the tools to do it..."
The 'Violent Slicer' charges at Erlöser who manages to dodge most of his attacks using the training Rainbow Dash gave him with her card game. Erlöser jumps away from The 'Violent Slicer' and looks at his hand which is cut and bleeding.
"If you want to kill him... Form a weapon your blood knows how to wield. Listen to your blood and let it form itself..."
Erlöser does as instructed and tries to form a weapon in his right hand. His blood begins to gather and morphs into a slim bladed longsword. Erlöser grips the handle tightly which feels solid despite being blood. The blade of the sword suddenly becomes harder and gains a shine to it like crystal.
"You can't keep going like you are... You need blood... His blood... I will help direct you to get back to full strength. After that you will have to kill him on your own."
Erlöser sprints towards The Violent Slicer using his Pegasus speed and when he goes to attack Erlöser with his right arm blade Erlöser slides past to the left avoiding his blade and gets behind him. He then sticks his sword in the Slicer's back and cuts very deep making an X shape which causes blood to spray forth from his wounds, coating Erlöser. Erlöser tries to drink in as much blood as possible before the Slicer kicks him back and groans in pain.
"You little punk! Now you have gone and made me really pissed off... Prepare to die!" The Slicer screams at Erlöser as his back wounds heal.
"Can you feel it? The urge of blood-lust welling up inside you... The desire to kill to survive... He means to end your life dear brother... Keep you from all you hold dear... The question is, what will you do to stop that from happening?"
Erlöser wipes his mouth and grins in a way he has never before. "I will kill him..." Erlöser whispers before looking up at the Slicer showing his eyes to be a fresh bright blood red. The Slicer charges at Erlöser who seemingly disappears as he goes to slice at him. The Slicers arm is suddenly fully detached by a clean cut from Erlöser's sword and is kicked aside.
"You little bitch! You think you're better than me?! You think a shitty little E rank can beat a D rank?!" The Slicer rages as he slashes as Erlöser blindly.
Erlöser without hesitation cuts off the other arm and cuts the Slicers knee caps deep making him fall to his knees still in blind rage. Erlöser then forms on his opposite hand a dragon claw and grabs the Slicers throat and grips it tightly.
"Shut the fuck up! You rant and rave about being strong and being a D rank... That doesn't mean shit here and now! I'm sick and tired of always being protected... I was fucking abandoned by everyone! The world has done nothing, but piss on me since that day my parents died! Well... Perhaps it's time I started pissing back!" Erlöser crushes the Slicers throat and rips it out letting him bleed out after kicking him away onto the floor.
"Ladies and gentlecolts we have a winner! Congratulations 'Dragon Ravager'!" The announcer states as the gate opens which Erlöser entered through.
Erlöser's sword becomes liquid and flows back into his body and his wounds heal. His eyes turn back to normal only they are a mysterious ocean blue this time. Erlöser walks out of the arena back into the fighter gathering area to see Flutterbat, Winston, Jules and Giles waiting for him. Flutterbat is wearing a long trench coat to cover herself.
"Erlöser... I apologise for lying to you... In essence I just wanted to gauge your combat skill... That was a mistake, I never should have let you fight... I will take you home now if you want me to." Flutterbat kindly offers holding out her hand.
"Please... Just take me home... I really just want to sleep and forget all of this..." Erlöser pleads while looking very sad.
"Winston get the car ready... Jules, Nigel pack my things we are leaving. Erlöser... Please walk with me, I will take you home." Erlöser takes Flutterbat's hand and she begins to lead him out of the underground fight arena. Once outside she takes a deep breath and turns to Erlöser. "Look... I did all this to find a partner... It was a silly naive thing for me to do. However, it's a bit late for regrets now isn't it... In short that's you Erlöser... Your kidnapping, being made to fight... Everything that just happened down there is my fault and I take responsibility for that..." Erlöser looks up to see Flutterbat's appearance has altered. Her mane has become neater and her eyes to their normal colour, her voice from the regrets part became softer as well.
"What do you mean? I agreed to fighting... I was the one who had a breakdown in the middle of battle..." Erlöser looks down but has his head raised by Fluttershy.
"I've decided you are the one I want and I don't give things up easily... This world forces even the most innocent creature to change in ways they never thought they would... Trust me I should know... I too was abandoned and judged by those closest to me... From now on we are in this together, okay?" Fluttershy presses her lips against Erlöser's and kisses him deeply. Erlöser doesn't resist and embraces Fluttershy's kiss. After a few seconds she lets go and looks down the alleyway at Winston standing by a black small limo which has blacked out windows. "Let's go home, Erlöser..." Fluttershy smiles at Erlöser and takes his hand before leading him to the limo.
Meanwhile under the full moon Princess Luna is watching Erlöser drive away in the limo with Fluttershy. "Were it possible, I'd turn back time and do things over... However, this world doesn't allow such a luxury..." Princess Luna sighs deeply.
"What is your will on this matter... My lady?" An anthropomorphic pitch black three tailed fox with ice blue tips for his tails and ears stands beside Princess Luna. His eyes are a mysterious ice blue and he wears armour similar to Hémolyse of the royal night guard.
"I will keep an eye on him for now... I want you to do what you always do and stay by me no matter what... Yuuki." Princess Luna leans softly into Yuuki while he watches the limo before comforting Princess Luna as the limo disappears out of sight.
Author's Note
This will be the last chapter for a small duration while I sort a lot of other things out including CLC and the rewrite of 'The Queen and Her Servant'. I hope you can all bare with me and I will have some more bloody chapters heading your way.
The Return of Destruction
Erlöser sits back in his seat and sighs deeply as Fluttershy cuddles up to him. Across from them is Octavia and Vinyl who are also relaxing.
"So... It's been a while since we saw you Flutters." Vinyl points out as she drinks her Vodka.
"Well... I was given a reason to venture out of my little underground arena hole. Besides it's been a while since I've had any proper fun." Fluttershy states as she nuzzles Erlöser's arm.
"I'm just delighted to meet another of Vinyl's friends. I find myself being dragged more and more into the nightclubs across Canterlot. Not that I mind being anywhere with Vinyl, but it's an interesting experience never the less." Octavia states sipping her piña colada.
"So, Erlöser... How is your training with Flutters going? I heard from Rainbow that you switched mentors shortly after you were brought home three weeks ago..." Vinyl asks seeming to be nervous as it concerned Fluttershy.
"Oh... It's umm going well... It's not really difficult, but it is very beneficial. I feel stronger because of it." Erlöser comments, sipping his soda.
"I suppose... Rainbow has been pretty off since you switched mentors though. I heard from Larvali she is spending more time with Berry Punch since you returned." Vinyl stands up stretching.
"Already time for you to go back to work, Vinyl?" Octavia asks looking slightly disappointed.
Vinyl gently kisses Octavia's cheek and smiles. "Yeah, I need to go make sure Neon doesn't buck things up if I leave him alone on the stand for too long. I will be back soon enough." Vinyl leaves the group and head for Neon Lights on the DJ stand.
"I heard about quite the noise you are making in the underground fights, Fluttershy... In the last two weeks Erlöser has been back, you entered a new fighter representing you... 'The Dragon Ravager' I believe he is called." Octavia states as she turns to Fluttershy who sighs deeply.
"I guess being Vinyl's marefriend has its perks... I'm entering Erlöser into the underground fights to better hone his abilities. It's all well and good trying to train him how Rainbow was, but he will never gain any real combat experience... He needed enemies who would not go easy on him, who actually intended to kill him. Needless to say he has progressed far from when we met." Fluttershy defends herself while nuzzling Erlöser softly.
"I... I don't think her training methods are bad... It's very different to Rainbow, yes. However, I'm not unhappy with my progress and am very grateful to Fluttershy for teaching me like she is... Among other things..." Erlöser blushes slightly at the last part.
Octavia raises an eyebrow, but before she can speak Fluttershy interjects.
"I'd rather you didn't ask about more private matters that might go on behind closed doors~" Fluttershy takes a few sips from her blood-tea and relaxes again before a loud voice interrupts the club atmosphere.
"Oi! We're here for the harlot known as Lady Flutterbat! Come out peacefully at the order of underground fight boss Monty the Machete!" The voice bellows as the club begins to empty of it's non-Kansen inhabitants.
The only ponies left in the club were Neon Lights, Fluttershy, Erlöser, Vinyl Scratch, Octavia and the thugs. Vinyl jumps down to the dance floor where the thugs are and cracks her knuckles.
"You guys stupid? Do you have any idea whose club you're busting into?" Vinyl asks very pissed off.
"Look Back Beat... We're only here for Fluttershy!" The main thug states as the three of them form their arm blade weapons.
Erlöser joins beside Vinyl and looks willing to fight, making her raise an eyebrow.
"Since when did you become the eagerly fighting type?" Vinyl asks flipping a knife out of her pocket.
"Well... I guess since I wanted to protect what is dear to me..." Erlöser states as he forms his own more dragon styled arm blade.
"Okay then. Neon, get the party started on this throw-down! Pump up dat volume!" Vinyl yells as Neon Lights scrambles for a record to put on.
Neon Lights finally finds a record and throws it on the DJ stand so it begins playing. As the record begins Vinyl looks up at Neon Lights from her battle position and gives him a 'what the fuck?' expression complete with hand gestures.
"Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck!" Neon Lights panics as he promptly removes the record with a audible scratch sound.
"Turn Table! What the fuck was that?! Try again or so Celestia help me I'll come up there, kick your ass and do it myself!" Vinyl yells before going back to her battle position.
Neon Lights scrambles around again and puts on a more upbeat record which makes Vinyl bounce her head in approval. She then cuts her hand and throws some blood up into the air and snaps her fingers to send it flying towards the thugs. The three thugs narrowly dodge the onslaught of blood like bullets and scatter shots Vinyl is throwing at them. The first thug to the left tries to get behind Vinyl, but is blocked by Erlöser who takes a slash at the thug making him jump back.
"You don't know who you're messing with kid. We're bigger then you will ever be!" The thug states as he tries to get the upper hand on Erlöser, but can't seem to match his new found speed.
"You're talking too much shit for me to even care what you're saying!" Erlöser comments as he kicks the thug into the wall, cracking it before stabbing the thug through the chest.
Vinyl keeps the middle thug under wraps with her blood bullets before glancing at the third thug who pulls out a pistol to shoot at Vinyl. The thug is suddenly shot in the head and he falls back onto the ground. Up above them on the second floor balcony is Flutterbat sipping her blood-tea while holding a sniper rifle, that has a thread of blood leading to the loading chamber. The dance floor is suddenly flooded by a lot more thugs who have rushed in to aid their fellow comrades. The majority of them are shot down by Vinyl while half of the rest are dealt with by Erlöser. Who, to Vinyl's surprise, seems more adept in combat now. Needless to say Flutterbat takes care of the remaining thugs with her sniper rifle before jumping off the balcony.
"Well, that was invigorating... Me and Erlöser will leave the clean up to you, Back Beat. My three underlings shall help the best they can... We will see you both later." Flutterbat steps over the corpses of the thugs and leaves the club followed by Erlöser after he gives a sad glance at Vinyl.
Flutterbat stretches as they pass Berry Punch's bar and head to where a small fountain area is. Erlöser watches as Flutterbat swings around a lamppost and sighs playfully.
"I wish my nights were always this fun, although, with you here I'm sure they will be~" Flutterbat comments as Erlöser sits down on a nearby bench.
"You know I don't always enjoy fighting in the underground arena..?" Erlöser comments as Flutterbat stops on the lamppost and thinks for a second.
"And you know I don't force you. I give you the chance to fight battles I know match your skill level... I'm not gonna pit the one I love against impossible odds." Flutterbat states as she slides next to Erlöser and cuddles up to him.
Flutterbat suddenly changes her demeanour and presses her butterfly necklace making a vampire styled mask appear on her face and head. Erlöser takes the hint and does the same before the pair are spontaneously surrounded by Pathogen soldiers wielding rifles and swords.
"Sir, we have surrounded the Kansen!" A soldier yells as a higher ranking Pathogen member walked between the soldiers wielding two silver M9 beretta pistols.
"Excellent... Although by the looks of it we have caught The Lady of The Night and her Blood Dragon Ravager... Two rather strong Kansen in the underground fight circles." The elite Pathogen states with distress before every soldier aims their guns at the pair.
"Crap... We're going to have to make a mess to escape..." Flutterbat and Erlöser stand up and look around.
Suddenly a rainbow coloured streak appears in front of the pair and the soldiers back off slightly. When the dust clears they can see Rainbow Dash in a crouching pose ready to pounce, wearing her mask.
"You guys look like you could use some help... I've been trying to call you all night, Erlöser..." Rainbow Dash states as she stands up and looks all around at the mass of Soldiers.
"Looks like the Brawler decided to join you... This complicates things, but no matter... Bonbon, come over here." The elite Pathogen asks as another soldier walks over to stand beside him.
"Yes, Silver Bullet?" Bonbon asks, brandishing her duel sub machine guns.
"Please deal with them as swiftly as possible-" Silver Bullet is cut off as Hémolyse suddenly lands in front of them.
"Cancel that order... I will deal with these degenerates myself." Hémolyse states as Silver Bullet salutes and backs down.
"As you wish, Night Captain Hémolyse." Silver Bullet states as everyone takes a step back.
Hémolyse walks towards the trio ready to draw her sword when suddenly yelling is heard from above. She looks up and, as if in slow motion, she is impacted by a pony like figure which slams her to the ground in surprise. When the dust clears the figure can be seen sitting atop an unconscious Hémolyse. Everyone stares at what appears to be a naked colt rubbing the back of his head. His coat is pitch black, his mane and tail are raspberry with midnight blue streaks and he has raspberry coloured eyes. Looking around he seems extremely unsure of where he is.
"W-where am I..? What did that statue do to me?" The colt looks around and at himself, now amazed at his hands and body.
"You there! Identify yourself!" Silver Bullet asks as every soldier now points their guns at the mysterious colt.
The mysterious colt cocks his head to the side and stares at Silver Bullet. "Silver..? What is going on and why are there several guns in my face?"
The soldier to Silver Bullets left leans in a little. "Umm... Sir, do you know this colt?"
"I don't think so... Although, I've never acquainted myself with many naked colts..." Silver Bullet comments, pointing his pistols at the colt.
Rainbow Dash, Flutterbat and Erlöser look very confused at the sudden interruption.
"Who is this colt supposed to be..?" Rainbow Dash asks, slightly perplexed.
"Maybe he is one of those exhibitionist colts you hear about on T.V... As for the falling from the sky... Maybe he was sky diving?" Erlöser adds a little unsure.
"I have no idea, why he would do so without a parachute beats me... All I know is he isn't exactly hurrying to cover anything up." Flutterbat comments seemingly un-fazed by said event and seems to be enjoying the show.
The colt continues to look around confused. "Could we start with my question..? Where am I? This is becoming annoying..."
"You don't get to ask the questions! Identify yourself or prepare to be taken into custody!" Silver Bullet states, as the soldiers rearm their weapons at the colt.
"Well... Considering this is getting us nowhere and we will likely be shredded in a matter of seconds... I might as well shed some light on what is about to become your grave site. You are in a world where the government is trying to hunt down all the blood wielding Ketsueki Kansen. You were unfortunate enough to fall down in the middle of a Pathogen ambush, whom are the elite unit of the government created for the sole reason of our extinction. As for your current actual location, Canterlot. Did that help much?" Flutterbat explains making the colt's ears twitch slightly.
The colt turns around slightly making Flutterbat smirk. "'Blood wielding..? I'm so confused..."
"Enough of this! Bonbon, kill the Kansen then take that naked colt into custody!" Silver Bullet demands as Bonbon spins her duel sub machine guns around her fingers.
Bonbon nods happily and complies as she charges at the group before them. She then releases a few short bursts of her sub machine guns at Erlöser. Rainbow Dash slides in front of Erlöser and blocks the bullets with her, briefly blood covered arms. Once the bullets stop the blood recedes back up her arms to form her blood battle gloves.
"Does that clear up the 'blood wielding' confusion..? It's really as simple as it sounds." Flutterbat comments pulling, seemingly out of nowhere, her Barrett 50 cal sniper rifle. She then attaches a blood thread to the loading chamber.
Erlöser also forms his own Kansen weapon in the form of a dragonic styled longsword compared to his earlier arm blade. Rainbow Dash engages Bonbon in close quarters combat, which doesn't seem to slow down or impede the sub machine gun wielding mare at all. The colt suddenly picks up a random shard of discarded glass and cuts his hand before forming and crystallizing a fully fledged scythe. He then uses the scythe to surprise attack Bonbon, cutting off her left forearm. Bonbon recoils and back flips away from Rainbow Dash, grunting in pain.
"I think I get it..." The colt states, directly turned to Flutterbat.
"Oh my... This is a development... And then some..." Flutterbat comments earning a glance from Erlöser.
"Must you seriously make such comments..? This is hardly the time..." Erlöser states, a slight hint of agitation in his voice.
"Oh, but teasing you is such fun... Plus you fight better when annoyed." Flutterbat remarks.
"You know she has a point..."
"Don't you fucking start getting involved for fuck sake... You're the last voice I need commenting on my love life." Erlöser states getting very annoyed.
Everyone looks at Erlöser, besides Bonbon who is still in pain.
"Umm... Is he okay..?" The colt asks looking confused.
"He will be fine, he always does this sometimes." Flutterbat states, looking amused.
"I will fucking end you!" Bonbon screams, as she charges at the colt continuously firing her sub machine gun.
The colt seemingly forms a shield of blood behind him causing the bullets to bounce off.
"You should probably calm down before trying to 'end me'... Otherwise it won't go well for you." The colt advises Bonbon.
"Shut the fuck up you blood wielding parasite!" Bonbon states in reply, as she throws her empty sub machine gun at the shield.
Bonbon draws a thin engraved dagger and stabs straight through the shield causing the colt to jump backwards, letting the shield morph back to its liquid form.
"That's different..." The colt mumbles in surprise.
Bonbon continues to charge at the colt slashing and stabbing with sincere purpose and blind rage. The colt repeatedly dodges Bonbon's attacks while trying to return his own slashes, which barely hit her causing minor damage. After preforming a two step kick attack to get behind him, Bonbon stabs the dagger into the colts shoulder. Hémolyse stirs nearby and faintly begins to get up while shaking her head. The colt recoils back and pulls the dagger out of his shoulder, throwing it aside he can see the wound is burning slightly.
"I'd be careful if I were you... The Pathogen weapons are designed for use against us, so they hurt like a mother fucker and our wounds don't heal up as fast." Flutterbat advises as she fires a shot through some nearby Pathogen soldiers.
"Need to know information perhaps..? Like before she stabbed me!" The colt answers back, slightly annoyed.
Bonbon activates her slim hidden dagger which shoots out from under her wrist and she charges at the colt again. The colt grabs her arm and breaks it nearly in two making the mare in question scream.
"What were you thinking? That is a stealth weapon... Not really something for use while in blood rage." The colt comments, before Bonbon smacks him in the face with what's left of her arm.
Suddenly a blood bullet is seen speeding through the head of Bonbon and the colt lets her go. Looking to his side he can see Flutterbat sighing in disapproval.
"Can we not play with our food? It's kill or be killed and I'm not in the hurry of dying a virgin!" Flutterbat states, very annoyed with the colt.
"You're a virgin?" Erlöser asks, looking confused as he cuts down a Pathogen soldier.
"How did you not know? She hasn't touched anyone since last I knew her... Despite her flirtatious attitude and sexual demeanour, she hasn't once done anything of the sort." Rainbow Dash comments with a wide grin as she smashes a few Pathogen soldier's heads in.
"Brawler! You didn't need to tell him that!" Flutterbat states, stomping the ground like a little girl.
The colt sudden blocks a spontaneous attack from a sheathed sword which belongs to Hémolyse.
"You have a lot of nerve waltzing in here like this." Hémolyse states.
"I fell from the sky... What do you want from me?" The colt comments back.
Hémolyse suddenly switches her attack and slams her fist into the colts stomach.
"Your eyes and voice are the same, but it's impossible to be you..." Hémolyse states, as she two step flip kicks the scythe out of the colts hand.
The colt stares at Hémolyse in confusion. "I've never had the honour to meet Ivory Moon."
Hémolyse flips her sheath around and slams the bottom end into the colts forehead. "My name is Hémolyse... You would do well to remember it."
Erlöser charges at Hémolyse and attempts to slash at her, to which she grabs the edge of the blade with her gloved hand and holds him in place.
"Leave him alone!" Erlöser shouts making Hémolyse recoil slightly, but she keeps her grip on his sword.
"Your voice... You are supposed to be dead..." Hémolyse mumbles slightly, seemingly lost in thought.
"Rumble!" A loud female voice is heard before something slams into Hémolyse sending her flying backwards into a nearby building.
Standing next to Erlöser and the colt is Berry Punch wearing a mask similar in style to Rainbow Dash's mask.
"You seem to be having trouble. I'd suggest escaping now..." Berry Punch states, as they look at Hémolyse who is slowly getting up.
Rainbow Dash and Flutterbat nod before running off. Berry Punch grabs both Erlöser and the colt's hands before dragging them away from the recovering mess of Pathogen soldiers.
Silver Bullet grunts in annoyance as the Kansen get away. Hémolyse walks up beside him and sighs deeply.
"I believe we should retreat for now... That Kansen is unknown to us and requires investigation. Not many can crystallise their blood..." Hémolyse states as she starts to walk towards the government HQ.
"Yeah... Nor can many survive against you like that..." Silver Bullet comments as he starts to follow.
Larvali lays his head back with his eyes closed sitting on the end seat of the sofa in the break room opposite the armchair. On the middle seat is Flutterbat and next to her is Erlöser. Leaning against the wall beside the door is Berry Punch, while in the armchair is the mysterious colt. Rainbow Dash walks in carrying a tea tray and sets it down on the coffee table before taking her place beside Berry Punch.
"Ambushed by Pathogen... Then by some miracle after encountering the night guard captain herself, this colt falls from the sky wielding the same blood powers as a Ketsueki Kansen... This begs the question, who are you, sir?" Larvali asks as he lowers his head and opens his eyes.
The colt is now wearing makeshift jeans that look like Rainbow Dash's and a hoodie from Vinyl's collection. The colt looks around the room a little before looking at Larvali and sighing deeply.
"Well, at least you're polite about asking who I am... As for who I am... I think it'd be shorter if I stuck to a name to start with... As far as I know, my name is Scorpia. Least that's the name I was given." The colt states, seemingly more relaxed than before.
"I still don't see why I had to give him a pair of my jeans... Why not take a pair from Vinyl's collection?" Rainbow Dash asks, folding her arms.
"Well... We already used one of her hoodies... And she has tighter fitting jeans than you. I'm surprised he fit at all..." Larvali states with some distress.
"I don't see why we didn't lend him some of your clothes, Larvali..." Flutterbat comments.
Larvali coughs and clears his throat and tries to move the conversation along.
"Anyway... From what I'm told about the event, you have no idea where you are, despite using the same ability as us." Larvali states folding his arms.
"I'm as confused about that as you are. From what I knew previously, I was the only one in my world with this ability. Along with being a quadruped and not a biped... Walking around like this feels... A little odd." Scorpia replies, looking at his hands weirdly.
Larvali rubs his chin and sighs slightly. "So... If what you say is true... Then you're a quadruped from another world who can wield our genetic ability and fell out of the sky naked... Not only that, but your name is Scorpia... Did I leave anything out?"
"Umm... Only the many many things I haven't said... So, no, you're not missing anything." Scorpia replies.
"Well... Unfortunately for you, the government now knows your face... Walking around blindly is not advised. Erlöser... I want you to take Scorpia and show him around Canterlot. This version is bound to be somewhat different to what he is used to. I'd also take him to see Rarity. She should be happy to work on something other than masks for once. Although, I'd get him one of those too... Just in case." Larvali asks Erlöser who nods.
"Are we seriously taking him in? Why not just let them have him... He has already been seen, so isn't he a liability?" Rainbow Dash states very annoyed.
"We have to look out for our own even if we do not know his exact origin. It's clear he is a Ketsueki Kansen whether he himself knows it or not... Please, let this one go Rainbow." Larvali asks Rainbow Dash who looks displeased.
Berry Punch places her hand on Rainbow Dash's shoulder and tries to comfort her. They both leave the room and Larvali sighs deeply.
"Don't mind her... She is sensitive to new arrivals and those who have been seen by Pathogen." Larvali comments.
"Well, after that encounter I can't really blame her... I've never had anyone cut through a crystallisation of my blood." Scorpia states looking annoyed at that fact.
"Pathogen weapons, especially their melee weapons... We are unsure as of yet what they use to make these weapons, but we know they hurt a lot and negate our fast healing ability. Their bullets are nasty as well... While few members of Pathogen use such ammunition, it still exists..." Larvali explains as he pours himself some tea.
"I think I'll take my leave now... I'm quite tired from today and desire rest." Flutterbat states as she gets up and leaves the room.
"Erlöser... Please be careful from now on. I expect the government will be extra hostile given how many agents they have lost in such a short time. I can also only fathom the effect from killing Bonbon... It was said she had a romantic partner within the ranks of the government... Do not be surprised if she seeks you out." Larvali warns Erlöser who nods.
"That colt bugs me... Scorpia... Why do I feel I know you..?"
'Hush... The last thing I need is a debate with you right now... We can talk about this later.' Erlöser states within his mind as he exits the room. Larvali sighs deeply and looks at Scorpia.
"What do you plan to do now?" Larvali asks, standing up and walking to the window.
"Do you have a place to train? I'd like to get used to my current body..." Scorpia asks.
"We have a hidden, sound proof room we use for that very purpose. Will you require a partner?" Larvali questions further.
"Perhaps later... Right now I'm just trying to get a feel for movement." Scorpia states flexing his hand.
"Fair enough, I will find you a sleeping bag of some description so you can rest for now. Along with the leftovers from dinner if you're hungry." Larvali states as he leaves the room.
Scorpia sighs deeply and stares up at the ceiling. "I hope the others aren't making a mess right now..."
Author's Note
I'm sorry this chapter took so long. After getting ever so far I realised I couldn't continue without my co-author helping me write his character (Scorpia). I hope to perhaps get chapters out more quickly, but with college and other stuff I'm unsure. I pray you all enjoy this chapter and are eager for what is to come.
The moon hangs high in the sky as an Earth Pony is walking down a wide ally accompanied by a Gryphon female. The Earth Pony mare has a Persian blueish grey coat with a greyish blue violet mane and tail. Her eyes are a light turquoise with greyish blue violet eye shadow, the only see-able clothing on her is a one piece dull faded blue dress with a black belt around her waist.
"Explain to me again Maud why we are in Canterlot?" The Gryphon female asks looking frustrated.
The Gryphon has a moderate gamboge coat with white feathers that has pale light greyish heliotrope edges. Her eyes are a light brilliant amber while her talons are a brilliant gold. She wears a normal length jacket and blue denim shorts with a gold choker around her neck.
"Chrysalis sent us to retrieve a package while she visited Larvali... Shouldn't be too far now." Maud explains as they continue walking.
"I don't see why Verdammnis couldn't have done this stupid assignment... All she does when in Canterlot is stay holed up in her little 'fun house'... It's only a matter of time till the government gets suspicious, that old theatre won't house her forever..." Gilda states sounding very annoyed.
"That's a very interesting little tidbit of information." A creepy sinister voice states from behind them
Maud pulls out a knife and cuts her neck before manipulating the blood to form a rock styled mask all around her head in the helmet style. Gilda activates her choker making it form a helmet around her head in the Gryphon style. Both of them stand in an offensive stance as they turn around to spot Discord.
"Well, that's a pleasant way to greet somepony... Wouldn't you agree, daughter dearest?" Discord leans on a fully metal steel umbrella.
"Hehe yup, very rude indeed, papa!" The playful voice comments from behind them making Gilda turn to face the owner.
Gilda can see a violet Earth Pony with a dark purple mane and tail that has white edges. She wears a kids propeller hat, purple shirt, dark violet jacket like Gilda's with suspender shorts.
"Shit... I didn't think we'd run into Discord here..." Gilda muses as she grits her teeth.
"I don't recognise the girl... Proceed with caution..." Maud states with calm precision as Discord spins his umbrella around his finger.
"Screwball, darling. Deal with the mouthy one for daddy while I try to squeeze some info from this, rather monotone mare..." Discord states stopping his umbrella and readying himself.
Gilda stares at the mare addressed as Screwball and scoffs. "How is a pipsqueak like you gonna 'deal with me'?" Gilda asks cutting her hands with a pocket knife and spreading blood over her talons.
Gilda narrowly dodges something which smashes into the wall behind her. When Gilda glances at where the object impacted, there is a circle hole with a blood red thread coming out of it. Screwball smiles widely as the thread is jerked harshly and the wall practically explodes as the object is tugged back out. Gilda looks back at Screwball who catches a silver ball which is coated in blood, Gilda notes that when Screwball throws the ball up in the air and catches it repeatedly that the blood red thread is attached to the centre of her hand.
"Neat isn't it! Uncle Sinclair said it's a modified silver ball which was melted down and mixed with the same modified metal that can harm us Kansen. Word of advice... Dodge!" Screwball playfully states as she pitches the ball at Gilda, who rolls to the side as it goes past her and Maud.
Discord readies his umbrella like a baseball bat and smacks the ball back towards Gilda. Maud rolls out of the way and sprints towards Discord.
"Ha! Is that all you can do? You pathetic-" Gilda is cut off when the ball suddenly impacts her back making her cough up blood.
Screwball jerks the ball back into her hand and giggles at Gilda who is writhing in pain on the floor. Maud is now fighting Discord with spiked blood gloves and appears to be holding her own.
"Oh? I thought you were talking... Least you were, till you took a ball to the back!" Screwball jokes as she pitches it at Gilda again.
Gilda preforms a sudden flight manoeuvre to take herself backwards slightly as she stretches.
"Ugh! You little dick... I'm gonna fucking end you!" Gilda yells as she runs towards Screwball.
Screwball jerks the ball back and pitches it again, but Gilda dodges and cuts the blood tread making it stay where it lands, in a dumpster. Gilda attempts to preform a punch, but it's dodged and Screwball giggles as she slams her free fist into Gilda's stomach. Screwball then begins using both her fists to hammer Gilda's various body parts with harsh punches and shear strength. Every impact is met with either breaking or cracking of bones which echo in the ally with her own screams of pain.
"Silly little Gryphon!" Screwball states with a giggle before interlocking her fingers and slamming her hands down hard on Gilda's head planting her face hard into the floor.
Gilda groans weakly and flinches her talons briefly before the blood on them returns to liquid and drips onto the floor. Screwball rips her mask off and throws it to the side before picking up Gilda's pocket knife and spins it around in her hand. She then sends out her blood thread which seeks and brings her ball back to her.
"Sorry... Maud..." Gilda manages to say before Screwball throws the knife down into the side of her head.
"I dealt with the mean Gryphon papa!" Screwball states with glee to Discord.
Maud jumps back and spits out some blood before looking towards Screwball.
"Gilda! You-" Maud is cut off when Discord slams his umbrella into her head. The impact knocks her against the wall and she falls onto the floor. Her blood mask and blood gloves do the same as Gilda's talons. Screwball skips over to them after putting her metal ball away in the back pocket of her suspenders.
"She isn't dead, my dear. I simply decided to finally put her to sleep... Shall we return home? I believe we still have some ice cream you can have for a reward." Discord informs Screwball who claps her hands gleefully before picking up Maud.
The pair begin to walk out of the ally as it starts raining hard.
The sun shines in the sky as the once night time streets of Canterlot have become somewhat busy with the coming day. Erlöser and Scorpia are walking down the street towards the district with Berry Punch's bar. Scorpia now wears better fitting jeans with a pitch black hoodie, he has his hood up hiding his face.
"So... Does this place look much different than where you're from?" Erlöser asks as they weave in and out of people.
"Depends on where you are... Some places yes, others look quite different. There is just one place I hope is not here." Scorpia states, trying to keep his face hidden.
"Which place is that? Also you don't have to worry much about hiding your face during the day, Pathogen really only come out to get us at night as that is when the majority of the normal ponies are asleep or in clubs and such." Erlöser inquires as the wait at a pedestrian crossing.
"It's better I don't tell you... That way if it does exist, I don't have to know..." Scorpia remarks slightly annoyed as he remembers something.
"I see... I was told to take you to Rarity, but we call her the mask lady as she makes the Kansen their masks. She also still does clothing which is helpful for you. Got any love interests back home?" Erlöser inquires further as they start to cross the road.
"Yes. I'm curious as to why exactly you're asking me such a question..." Scorpia asks raising an eyebrow.
"Just trying to make conversation... Between the time I spend with Fluttershy, in the arena and working at the video game store, I don't really have much time now to just talk with many ponies outside the normal group there..." Erlöser states as they walk past some food establishments.
"Either A: Make time. Or B: Talk to your customers who come into the store." Scorpia comments.
"You know what I mean... I spend the majority of my time with Fluttershy so I rarely get to talk to other new Kansen who I don't have to kill at the sound of some bell..." Erlöser sighs deeply.
"So you don't just want somepony to talk to, but somepony who is also like you... I can see how, in this place, that is troublesome." Scorpia sighs himself as he remembers last night.
"Hence why I'm being overly talkative with the new guy... You're new and wield the same blood power... Likely us talking will mean little to you in the long run, but it relieves some of my stress when Vinyl's club doesn't get harassed by thugs every other week... I'm kidding by the way... Mostly." Erlöser dryly jokes as they head towards Berry Punch's bar.
"If you think all that is stressful... Try living with my two friends where we do for a week and get back to me..." Scorpia replies as they enter the bar to see Berry Punch at the bar.
Rainbow Dash is drinking a glass of blood-whiskey while Berry Punch is leaning close to her with their foreheads touching before she notices Erlöser and Scorpia. Berry Punch leans back into her normal standing position.
"What can I do for you Erlöser?" Berry Punch asks as she continues to clean a glass.
"We just came to see Rarity about getting Scorpia some proper clothes and a mask made. Hello Rainbow." Erlöser states as they walk past Rainbow.
"Oh, now you're fucking talking to me... You switch trainers, don't even notify me and then you spend so long away from the store we hardly know what the fuck you're doing anymore... So hello to you too... Fucking asshole." Rainbow Dash rants to Erlöser while she sips her drink.
"Rainbow... I wanted to, please believe that. It's just that Fluttershy had me running around and keeping me so close I couldn't do much of anything... I'm sorry, if that means much right now..." Erlöser tries to apologise.
Rainbow Dash stands up and turns around throwing a quick punch at Erlöser which he dodges and it heads for Scorpia instead. Without so much as thinking he grabs her fist and holds it in place. Rainbow Dash stares into Scorpia's eyes not exactly moving her fist from his grip. Scorpia lets go of Rainbow Dash's hand and looks at Berry Punch.
"So where exactly can I find Rarity?" Scorpia asks, ignoring the conflict.
"She is in the back. You can't miss her." Berry Punch gives directions.
Rainbow Dash looks down and mumbles something before heading for the other back door.
"Berry I'm gonna go sleep this off..." Rainbow Dash states to Berry Punch, who receives a kiss before she leaves the room and up some stairs past the door.
"Want me to come with you to see Rarity or?" Erlöser asks unsure.
"If you want to tag along, be my guest. I don't really mind." Scorpia comments before heading to the back door.
Erlöser decides to sit at the bar and talk to Berry Punch while Scorpia enters the back room to see Rarity working on a pair of headphones that are blood red with Vinyl's cutie mark on them.
"You must be the new Kansen Larvali messaged me about, do come in and make yourself at home." Rarity states, without looking away from her work.
Scorpia shuts the door and walks over to Rarity before sitting down and looking at the headphones.
"What are you working on?" Scorpia asks.
"I am working on a pair of headphones for a clients daughter... She has the equal temperament to her mother. I imagine you need clothes and a mask, otherwise I can't see why you'd be sent here." Rarity finishes the headphones and turns to Scorpia before crossing her legs.
"Both would be nice, yes. I'd like something that can cover up my identity as they have already seen my face." Scorpia explains.
Rarity chuckles before standing up. Scorpia can see all manner of masks about the room on various ponyquin busts or full bodies, mask can also be seen hanging on the wall.
"I did hear about some colt who fell from the sky last night during the Pathogen ambush in the centre not far from here. Or should I say I had such a lovely view from the rooftops. News travels fast along the Kansen network and rarely a Pathogen raid goes unwatched by one of us. I must say, darling, you aren't exactly lacking in certain areas are you." Rarity comments as she prepares some materials and measuring tape.
"I'm flattered, but I am also spoken for." Scorpia states, clearing his throat.
"Do not worry, I don't date clients. Plus having a partner would distract me from my work and that simply wouldn't do. Too many kansen, so little time. Any idea what clothes and mask you want?" Rarity comforts him as she begins drawing his outline on a large sketch pad which sits on an artist's easel.
"Nothing in mind exactly for the clothes. Just something that hides who I am as I likely won't be going out in the day much. As for the mask... surprise me." Scorpia explains.
"I see... I believe I have just the thing. You can wait outside with Berry Punch if you want, the items should be ready by tonight. I do highly recommend the blood-whiskey, it's simply divine." Rarity states waving her hand to Scorpia asking him to leave.
Scorpia nods in thanks before leaving the room to see Erlöser drinking the same whiskey as berry Punch.
"How'd it go with Rarity?" Berry Punch asks, pouring Scorpia a whiskey of his own and sitting it beside Erlöser.
Scorpia sits down beside Erlöser and pushes the drink to the side making Berry Punch raise an eyebrow before taking back the drink to consume herself.
"Quite well I believe, whatever she is making should be done by tonight she said." Scorpia informs Berry Punch.
"Sounds about right for her working speed. So what do you morph your blood into mainly? We all seem to use something unique to us that works with our style of fighting." Berry Punch asks.
"Wassup Berry, Erlöser and the new colt." Vinyl's voice can be heard behind them.
"Oh this is the fellow who fell from the sky last night... You're causing quite the fuss back at HQ." Octavia states making Scorpia's ears twitch.
"Is that so..? It's not like I did much... I fell from the sky, that's about it." Scorpia replies not turning round.
"Well... You're being blamed for the death of agent Sweetie Drops a.k.a Bonbon. While still a normal government her partner is... Well... Given our loss counter against the Kansen recently, she was promoted to Pathogen and will undergo her experiment next week." Octavia informs Scorpia.
"I didn't kill her... That was not me. Anyway, you said 'our loss' as in..?" Scorpia inquires.
"Oh yeah... You're the new guy. I should probably mention that my baby Octavia here is one of the members of Pathogen... More specifically known among us Kansen as the Final Requiem. No Kansen who have heard her song leave the area alive." Vinyl explains as she sits down at the bar.
Scorpia's ears twitch again and he sighs before abruptly leaving the bar. Vinyl looks at everypony and shrugs.
"Was it something I said? Octy? Erlöser? Berry? Was it something I said?" Vinyl asks looking slightly worried as she hugs the blood-vodka bottle Berry provides her while wearing a depressed look on her face.
The Pathogen gym on the top floor of the government building is fairly empty aside from a very light aquamarine Unicorn that has a mint green mane and tail with white highlights, her eyes are a Brilliant gamboge. She wears a tight pair of cyan shorts with a white short sports top, on her hands are a pair of fingerless cyan battle gloves. The Unicorn is sparring with a punching bag near some weight benches.
"So, you're the specimen they promoted to the Pathogen group... I guess your physical fitness will allow you to endure the experiments... It's your mental state that is more at risk." Dr. Sinclair states from behind her making the Unicorn turn around.
"I don't need your concern... Kansen need to be purged from our world in order for peace to be instated." The Unicorn explains before turning round and throwing a few kicks at the punching bag.
"Oh, my dear... Being in the normal government you have no clue what is really going on... Your kind are simply sent along with the wolves as bait, nothing more. the abilities of a Pathogen agent far outrank anything one of the normal government could do. However, you are no longer bait... You have been promoted as I understand it. You, my dear, are now a wolf." Dr. Sinclair begins to explain.
"What in the name of Equestria are you even on about?" The Unicorn asks, turning around confused.
Dr. Sinclair smiles and begins to walk away making the Unicorn pick up her towel and follow him.
"Surely you heard everything about Pathogen?" Dr. Sinclair asks, placing his hands in his lab coat pockets.
"Crazy strong, weird abilities, above the normal government in every possible way including rank... I miss anything out?" The Unicorn asks with a deadpan expression.
Dr. Sinclair takes her down some hallways before they enter his lab and leads the Unicorn over to some racks which hold various blood vials.
"That sounds about right for the standard report... However, now you are about to become a member... You will learn the true nature behind Pathogen and the methods we use to combat Kansen. Lyra Heartstrings... We do not simply fight Kansen. No, under normal circumstances we would fair no better than the normal government. What we do instead... Is create Kansen..." Dr. Sinclair grows a creepy smile across his face as he moves over to the canister Hémolyse was in before.
"I don't know what you're talking about..." Lyra states, looking over the vials of blood.
"Blood transfusion and replication. These are the main experiment areas I focus on. Every member of Pathogen aside from Twilight Sparkle and Trixie are artificial Kansen made in this very lab. The process is very painful and mentally taxing which is why some of the previous subjects failed..." Dr. Sinclair explains happily.
"So you're saying I have to become what I hate in order to fight them effectively... Seems legit... I mean it explains why Pathogen is so much more effective than the normal government." Lyra sighs.
"No, my dear, it explains why 'we' are so much more effective. Provided you survive you will be one of us. So pick your poison and let's get started." Dr. Sinclair walks back over to Lyra who is reading the vial labels.
"How does this work exactly?" Lyra asks confused.
"These are blood samples gathered from various high rank Kansen. As you can guess they were taken from the subjects using various forceful methods. They are named with titles we know the Kansen to call each other, these often refer to their ability and rank within Kansen society." Dr. Sinclair explains further.
Lyra looks over the vials and picks up two with names she likes. Looking them over she shows them to Dr. Sinclair to get his opinion.
"Ah Back Beat and Turn Table. Both are harmonic based Kansen with both of them branching out with their abilities. Back Beat is reported to use her blood in tandem with harmonic frequency's making it a projectile weapon which, as we have experienced, is a lethal weapon indeed. Now Turn Table takes a very different approach, using their blood they summon various forms of blood creatures which they can augment with harmonic frequency's. Depending on which route you desire to go down, those are the base abilities available to you." Dr. Sinclair takes both vials and explains.
Lyra thinks for a second before pointing at Turn Table's vial. "That one sounds most appealing to me. Either way using my musical ability should aid in strengthening either one, but this one sounds more like my style."
"Excellent, just lie down on that table there and we can begin stage one." Dr. Sinclair gestures to the operating table.
"Doc... Level with me here... How much is this going to hurt?" Lyra asks looking slightly worried.
"Oh, not much... It'll just feel like your veins and insides are burning and Tarturus itself is trying to enter our world using your body as a conduit." Dr. Sinclair smiles as he begins to set up his equipment and puts Back Beat's vial on the rack again.
"Not much then..." Lyra swallows hard and sighs deeply.
Author's Note
I apologise for taking so long to do a new chapter, things have been a little hectic recently. I plan to write more in the near future, but currently with college and the Xbox one, writing isn't going so well. I hope you all enjoyed this chapter and will look forward to the next chapter that should arrive soon.
That Sweet Whiskey Addiction
Rainbow groans in disapproval as the sun beams through the crack in the curtain of the apartment. Trying to fight off her hangover she rolls over and buries herself into the warm presence beside her, more importantly into the chest of said warm presence.
"You have only yourself to blame... I told you to not drink so much." Berry Punch's voice whispers into Rainbow's ears softly which makes her cuddle closer.
"That's unfair... You know why I've been drinking the amount I have..." Rainbow pouts and buries her head deeper into Berry Punch's chest.
"Because you lost a student and are afraid you'll lose him as a friend. You also came crawling back after getting smashed at the other bar and begged to get back together. You know I've wanted you back for a while now, but I don't want you broken forever. You need to let go and move on with things, you can still try to make things work even if it seems hopeless." Berry Punch runs her fingers through Rainbow's mane gently.
"This coming from a fully functioning alcoholic, who seems to be fine in the morning, no matter how drunk she gets? Or how many Kansen she punches up in the process... Miss Raspberry Rumble." Rainbow teases as she snuggles closer to Berry Punch.
"That is entirely unfair and shouldn't even be in this conversation. Don't make me leave you without satisfaction and alcohol this evening." Berry Punch teases as she slides out of bed and starts putting on her work outfit.
"You are such a mean tease... But I love it so much... I don't suppose I can hang around today? I've got nothing to do till midday." Rainbow asks as she gets dressed herself.
"I guess you can for a while. Just don't forget our shopping trip this evening, you need more clothes and I need more alcohol." Berry Punch enters the bathroom and closes the door.
"What about my alcohol? You know it's unfair if you drink and I don't... Unless we're sharing a stash now?" Rainbow stretches before looking out the window.
"Yes, we obviously share a stash Rainbow, we did so last time we were together. You know, you should come work here, then we would always be together." Berry Punch offers as she steps out of the bathroom and lets Rainbow enter.
"Yeah, but I love where I work and Larvali would never forgive me if I left right now. Plus perhaps I can just help out from time to time." Rainbow muses as she brushes her teeth and exits the bathroom after rinsing her mouth out.
The pair go downstairs and Berry Punch leaves Rainbow to go behind the bar while Rainbow takes her normal seat.
"How long do you think it will be before things get even remotely better?" Rainbow asks as she is served a strawberry juice.
"Well... Pathogen's task force have been stepping up their game after losing so many agents. Our new arrival caused quite the stir during their last raid... With so many of their agents dying in such close proximity to each other... I feel they might start kicking in doors and killing anyone they think is a Kansen. I don't think it'll come to that, but I don't know. If I'm honest, I'd let the whole world burn if we would be left at the end of it. You know I don't want to lose you again." Berry Punch places her hand on Rainbow's to reassure her.
At that moment Scorpia and Erlöser enter the bar and walk over to the pair. Erlöser sits down a seat away from Rainbow while Scorpia stays standing up.
"I believe she is waiting for you in the back, if you were wondering." Berry Punch directs to Scorpia.
Scorpia only gives a light nod for acknowledgement before continuing into Rarity's workshop to see her working on a long black cloak of some description.
"Come in, darling. I was just putting the finishing touches to your outfit. Tell me, what do you think?" Rarity stands up and steps back to marvel at her own work.
The long black cloak is pitch black with a slight dull leather sheen to it. On the ponyquin is also a pair of gloves, trousers and boots, seemingly all made to the same design as the cloak.
"The cloak is made from, a faux leather material, which at its base form is simply strengthened cloth. The gloves are pretty much the same, but are altered to allow the intake of air, it prevents your hands from getting too sweaty even in summer... I think. The boots are your average material, with some modifications to allow for better grip and friction when fighting. The trousers are made from a much simpler strengthened cloth. Oh, I should also mention this wonderful feature." Rarity explains before slightly skipping up to the ponyquin and flipping over its hood which makes its face dark. "It has a very fashionable hood, which makes your face dark. A desirable trait for you, I'm sure." Rarity smiles, waiting for Scorpia's thoughts.
Scorpia walks over to and around the ponyquin, looking at the whole outfit before looking to Rarity. "Masks my identity and enough manoeuvrability that I can fight in it? It's... almost perfect... just one thing..."
"And what is that, darling?" Rarity asks, looking a little uneasy at Scorpia's question.
"Assuming somepony knocks the hood back, you said something about making a mask?" Scorpia asks, looking confused.
Rarity heaves a sigh of relief before walking over to a bust of a pony and retrieving something. She walks back over to and behind Scorpia as she begins to fasten something around his neck.
"I was afraid something was wrong with the outfit, but no, I have already finished your mask. As I explained before, the masks are magically concealed in everyday items. Since you didn't give me any idea what to do for you... Well, I kinda just went with the first thing in my mind." Rarity explains as she finishes putting the item on Scorpia's neck.
Leaving briefly to fetch a mirror, Rarity comes back and rolls it in front of Scorpia. Around his neck is a hot pink choker with a cat bell on the front.
"How... Is this the first thing that came to your mind?" Scorpia asks, raising an eyebrow.
"Well, I was struggling to figure out what would suit you. It was only after watching Opal play with a ball of yarn that it hit me... Well, the ball of yarn did anyway. So I designed a hot pink choker like Erlöser has, but I put a cat bell on the front for you." Rarity gives Scorpia an awkward smile.
"Okay... So, how does it work?" Scorpia asks, trying to move the conversation along.
Rarity slides behind Scorpia. "I'm glad you asked, there is a small engraving just at the back of your choker. It's technically on either side of the two ends which fasten it on, so the mask can only be activated when it's properly put on. You just press the engraving and..." Rarity explains before pressing the engraving on Scorpia's choker.
The choker magically unfolds to form a full head mask forcing his mane behind his head and down his back. The design on the front of the mask appears to be somewhat draconic in nature with a symbol engraved on the mask's forehead.
"The mask unfolds and takes its position like so. The design is slightly altered from Erlöser's to appear more... intimidating. The symbol represents 'destruction' in some form of old Equestrian text. I have no idea why I threw it in; I just found it on the internet and it seemed to fit with how you fought two nights ago. I generally have a good feel for matching Kansen with their masks, I've yet to be wrong." Rarity explains as she stands back in front of Scorpia.
"So... From a cat bell to a draconic mask... My only question: is this going to cost anything and if so, what?" Scorpia asks.
Rarity waves her hand in front of her and smiles. "Not a thing, darling. Consider the 'show' you put on two nights ago as payment enough."
Rarity walks away with a sly wink before attending to some of her other designs. Scorpia gives a slow slight nod before looking around.
"Is there anywhere I can change?" Scorpia asks, shifting slightly.
"There is a changing room just back there you could use. Oh, before I forget, I also made you some underwear. I figured you'd need it." Rarity smiles at Scorpia before she exits the workshop to visit the bar.
After spending several frustrating minutes in the changing room Scorpia exits wearing all the clothes Rarity made. Reaching behind his neck he presses the engraving which deactivates the choker putting it back into its compact mode. Scorpia folds up the clothes he was leant and makes his way out to the bar area to see Rarity sitting beside Erlöser, drinking from a wine glass.
"That actually looks better on you than I imagined." Rarity smiles at Scorpia.
"Thank you for making these for me. Erlöser, could you take these clothes back to Larvali?" Scorpia asks offering the clothes to Erlöser.
Erlöser stands up and takes the clothes before looking confused. "Can't you give them back when we return to the shop?"
"Maybe if I was going back there with you, but I have something to do first." Scorpia states heading for the door.
"Oh... Okay. Try not to get yourself killed." Erlöser comments to Scorpia.
"I'm not doing anything that dangerous... I think." Scorpia replies, putting his hood up as he leaves.
Scorpia slowly enters the lobby of the government building as worker ponies buzz around talking to each other, on earpieces or on phones. Despite wearing the attire he is, no pony appears to pay him any mind. Scorpia walks around and stops in front of a sign showing the basic building layout and floor directives. His attention is mainly caught by the two floors underneath the top which both have the tag 'Pathogen'. Just beside that tag is a seemingly innocent note which reads: 'Might be worth a look ^_^'. Scorpia decides to head for the elevators. After he leaves the sign the note magically dissipates into air. Upon reaching the elevators the doors to the left one opens , showing it is seemingly empty. Stepping inside Scorpia can see the buttons range from floor one to floor sixty three, there is another note on the elevator buttons with arrows pointing to floors sixty one and sixty two that reads: 'These buttons ^_^'. Scorpia sighs and shakes his head before pushing the button for the sixty first floor. The note once again dissipates upon him doing so and the elevator doors close as it begins to ascend to it's own music . Scorpia looks up and sighs deeply, seeming very confused at the elevator's music choice. It doesn't take long for the elevator to reach it's destination and the doors open. Stepping out and allowing the doors to shut the music is promptly cut off, much to Scorpia's thankfulness. Looking around he can see the building still holds the normal castle décor along with it's fancy windows. The carpet below his boots is a very comforting blood red which seems to extend the entire hallway length. Scorpia begins walking down the hallway looking at the directional signs and information boards.
"You're not nearly as fast as I thought you would be. I figured you would have come here a lot sooner." A calm, yet playful male voice states from behind Scorpia.
"That was the plan, but something came up last night. Wasn't exactly in the mood." Scorpia remarks as he turns around.
Upon turning around he can see there is nothing behind him down the hallway. Looking back up the hallway he can still see nothing. Suddenly a navy blue tail with white highlights flies back and forth in front of Scorpia's face. Confused, Scorpia looks up to see a baby blue colt wearing navy blue trousers and a baby blue hoodie. His hood is up so Scorpia can't see his face, but his mane appears to be navy blue with white highlights like his tail.
"Sup?" The colt asked with a smile before flying away from Scorpia and landing a little way from him. He folds in his wings, still smiling.
"I think you already know the answer to that question. So, who are you and how did you know I would come here?" Scorpia replies flatly.
"It wasn't that difficult if I'm honest. We and the sisters go way back, although I doubt we ever met you... Scorpia? I think... One sec, I got flash cards for this." The colt states before pulling a stack of flash cards out of his pocket and holding them in front of him using a magical baby blue glow.
Scorpia grabs the flash cards out of the air and looks confused. "An Alicorn?"
The colt pulls down his hood to show he has a baby blue horn and dark blue eyes. "You could say that, although not one you would know... Unless you also know the 'Warden of Emotion, Keeper of Time and The Chronicler?"
"Not a clue... Although I have kept myself hidden for quite a long time." Scorpia remarks.
"That explains why we have never 'met' you. You're a bit out of your element here though, aren't you?" The colt comments as he pulls a bag of crisps out of his pocket and holds it in his magic before opening it and starting to eat them.
"What exactly do you mean by 'out of my element'?" Scorpia asks.
"Well... World, universe, take your pick on which phrase you use. The point is, you're a lost little pony... Or are you?" The colt comments waving his fingers at Scorpia.
"Yes and no, certainly isn't what I'm used to, but it also doesn't feel wrong." Scorpia states looking around.
"Well... They do say that one statue could change your life." The colt remarks smiling widely as he eats a crisp.
"Okay... So just one question... What the hell is that place?" Scorpia asks with a deadpan expression.
"Well... It's nothing, it's everything. It could be a potential trial to see how dimensional magic could affect a building in a long term experiment, but I highly doubt it's that." The colt's smile grows even wider as he eats another crisp.
"You know, judging from how perfect the place was set up, I get the feeling that you have the answers I'm looking for... Not that you'd even remotely give them to me. After all... Where's the fun in that?" Scorpia remarks, sounding sarcastic towards the end.
"I could do... Or I could not. World Jumper, by the way. See you around." World Jumper opens up a portal beside him before jumping into it, after which it closes.
Scorpia shakes his head and mumbles under his breath. "Crazy ponies everywhere I go." As he continues walking.
After a short time of walking back down the hall, Scorpia comes to a set of highly decorated double doors that have Princess Luna's cutie mark engraved onto them.
"Well... This should be interesting. She's in pathogen... I seem to be one of the things that that filly wants wiped out..." Scorpia activates his mask and sighs before opening the doors.
Walking inside he can see that the room is pitch black and oval in nature from the light coming from the doorway. The doors close shortly behind him and he is left in complete darkness.
"Do you know why you're here?" A very familiar voice breaches the silence and a pair of slightly glowing aquamarine eyes can be seen across the room.
"One, answers... To several questions. From what I've heard... This may be the worst place to try and get them, but it's the first place I could think of. And two... A crazy colt I just met in the hall pointing me here specifically." Scorpia replies staring at the pair of eyes.
"Given you strolled in here wearing the most obvious outfit I've ever seen a Kansen wear... knowing you are not a member of Pathogen, literally some of our agents dress just as strange... Sometimes. Yes, this is the worst place for you to try and get your answers... Little kansen." The voice states before clicking their fingers and the lights slowly brighten to a dim light revealing Princess Luna, sitting on a night themed throne.
"I didn't exactly give the mare much of an idea as to what I wanted. Just that I wanted something that could mask who I am. As for the whole 'worst place for answers' thing... Go to the absolute most deadly place for you. You'll learn something." Scorpia comments.
Princess Luna chuckles and sighs slightly. "I think I actually like you. I rarely get to speak to many kansen before my other agents 'interrogate' them... As much as I'm loving our chat, I'm afraid..." Princess Luna stands up and looks carefully at Scorpia. "Your mask... Remove your hood so I can see it more clearly..." Princess Luna demands.
"If that is what you wish, so it shall be. However, Luna, don't expect the mask to come down." Scorpia replies before taking down his hood.
"That symbol... If this is a coincidence, fate is indeed cruel..." Princess Luna muses to herself before looking a little flushed.
"The symbol could of been pulled as part of the design from the internet, my lady." Hémolyse comments, suddenly appearing at the side of the room perched on a small ledge.
"Coincidence? I can say nothing of that, however, pulled from the internet... She felt it... Fit? Don't ask me. It'd be much easier explained by her, not that you can even ask." Scorpia replies.
"Be that as it may... The mask lady is known to have a... 'Feeling' towards a Kansen's blood and what their mask should be... As much as I believe in fate, I know it holds nothing here..." Princess Luna comments as she looks troubled.
"If you require to see his face, I'm sure the various internet source footage would-" Hémolyse is cut off by Princess Luna.
"'If I require it, I'd not trust any of the internet sources as you should know! This matter insists that I see his face with my own two eyes... As much as I'd like to, you have already made it clear thou shalt not remove thy mask if prompted... There are some questions I now have that cannot be answered with words..." Princess Luna now wears a serious expression as her eyes turn a bright seasoned blood red.
"Well that's new. I've seen them with slit pupils, but red? This was already gonna be troublesome enough..." Scorpia mumbles to himself.
"Tell me... Do you know what rank you are..?" Princess Luna asks as she makes blood seep out of the back of her jacket before making them form into four, sharp blood tentacles.
"Well, first of all, I just got here. The whole ranking system has been explained to me, but my abilities have not been tested yet, so no. No, I do not." Scorpia replies.
"Then it's very unfortunate that you should now be forced to test against me..." Princess Luna states as she cracks her various muscles.
As Princess Luna cracks her knuckles she sends her two right tentacles flying towards Scorpia to smash into the ground at his hooves. Scorpia jumps backwards away from the impact zone, which is severely cracked. He is suddenly whacked out of the air by an entwined left tentacle combo, whose force impacts him hard with the wall. The two right tentacles are sent at Scorpia again, but he manages to climb out of the wall in time to dodge. Cracking her neck Princess Luna sends her left and right tentacles either side of Scorpia before sprouting another two and sending them straight down the middle. Using his horn, Scorpia cuts his hand and erects a blood shield that slows down Princess Luna's tentacles, but doesn't stop them entirely and they eventually break through. Scorpia jumps out of the attack making her tentacles impact the wall. Princess Luna brings all her tentacles back and smirks slightly.
"Not bad so far... Going to dodge constantly through this?" Princess Luna asks, folding her arms.
"Sorry about that. I'm a bit... lost in thought as it is. The leader of Pathogen... a Kansen herself? Do any of your underlings know of this? Aside from Ivory, of course." Scorpia asks.
Hémolyse flinches slightly and her ear twitches a little. Obviously using great self restraint she remains on her shelf and out of Princess Luna's way.
"The ones I trust know... Other than that, no... What part makes you so surprised?" Princess Luna asks as she twirls her tentacles around playfully.
"Well, like I said before, I just got here. I don't know much of your government, but what I have heard it is slightly surprising that you would be of the side your government wishes to wipe out. Not that it exactly matters right now, does it?" Scorpia comments.
"Right now? No, perhaps later it might... You said you came here for answers... To what exactly?" Princess Luna retracts her two extra tentacles and unfolds her arms.
"To be entirely honest, I'm not really sure. I mean... I touch a statue in a hidden room in my world and am suddenly dumped in this one. Not only that, but this..." Scorpia raises a bit of blood out of the cut on his hand. "I'm now in a world filled with others who can do what I can. As if it's always been a thing and I've just been... in the wrong place."
Princess Luna frowns slightly and retracts her tentacles before calmly walking over to Scorpia and standing a few inches away from him.
"Would thou kindly remove thy mask for me?" Princess Luna asks politely much to the surprise of Hémolyse.
"Now that's more the Luna I remember." Scorpia replies before pushing the engraving to retract the mask.
Princess Luna smiles slightly and looks over Scorpia's face and features humming slightly to herself, seemingly unsure. She gently places her hands on his cheeks and inspects his eyes.
"My lady..?" Hémolyse begins to ask, but is hushed by Princess Luna.
"Zerstörung... So... Different, yet... The same..." Princess Luna mumbles under her breath, Scorpia only able to catch the starting name.
Scorpia tilts his head slightly, one ear falling and the other perking up. Princess Luna steps away slightly before sighing at the damage around the room.
"Well... This isn't exactly the hospitality I desired to show, but hardly the time to brood over such a thing... Doth thou have a current place to stay?" Princess Luna asks with a slightly sweeter voice than before.
After a moment of thought Scorpia opens his mouth to answer. "Sort of. I've not been there long enough to be expected to stay, however."
"So long as you kept out of the way, I believe I could let you stay here. We do have a gym catered to Kansen abilities, the reason for that would be better explained by our resident doctor. Should anypony catch you in there simply pass for a testing recruit, I'll make sure Sinclair can confirm this. Any food or drink you might want would also be available." Princess Luna offers Scorpia.
"And... what if said pony to catch me is Silver Bullet?" Scorpia asks.
"I understand he was the one to submit the main report as it was his raid... You could find some way to deal with that yourself or, use this." Princess Luna reaches into her jacket's inside pocket before pulling out a very simple flip phone and handing it to Scorpia.
"And... this is?" Scorpia offers only a blank expression as he stares at the phone.
"You don't... Oh, right. It's a very basic flip phone, you use it to call ponies at far away distances, like the scroll teleport spell. Judging by this the world you were in didn't have this level of technology yet. All you need to do for this phone is press the dial button, the green phone icon, to call me and I'll sort out most things you could ask for." Princess Luna seems to be enjoying her explanation.
"Phone... huh... I'll keep it in mind. Thanks, I guess." Scorpia places the phone in one of his pockets.
"Hémolyse can show you to the room you'll be using. I hope you will be somewhat comfortable." Princess Luna gestures to Hémolyse who leaves her perch and walks over to the pair.
Hémolyse leads Scorpia out of the room and Princess Luna sits back on her throne before letting a deep sigh pass her lips as she slumps down.
The day has quickly turned to the evening as Rainbow Dash and Berry Punch are walking down the market street browsing shops and stalls of various natures. Rainbow Dash has Berry Punch's hand firmly in her grasp, seemingly afraid of letting go.
"If you don't chill out I might not have a hand at this rate." Berry states to Rainbow who realises and lets up on her grip.
"I doubt I could crush your hand even if I wanted to. You're far stronger than me in hand to hand combat." Rainbow replies as she lays her head on Berry's shoulder.
In Rainbow's free hand she is carrying a shopping bag full of newly bought clothes, while Berry's is carrying a bag filled with a six pack of hard cider.
"You just need to relax, we will be okay. Everything will be okay." Berry nuzzles Rainbow's neck affectionately.
The pair turn down the ally which is a short cut back to the bar. The air seems to turn colder as the couple turn the corner and head further down the back streets of Canterlot.
"Raspberry Rumble!" A country voice shouts out before a pony is heard landing behind them.
Both Rainbow and Berry activate their masks before turning around and facing a Pathogen elite with a long flowing golden blonde mane and tail.
"One-Two Applejack..." Berry looks around before throwing her bag to the side.
"This isn't going to go well..." Rainbow muses as she throws her bag against the opposite wall.
"I've found both The Brawler and Raspberry Rumble in one instance, this must be my lucky day." Applejack removes her gloves and she pushes a button on the wrist of her uniform.
Blood slowly begins to cover Applejacks hands and hardens before she smacks them together eagerly. Rainbow flips out her knife and cuts her hands making them cover in blood and harden. Berry takes the knife and does the same only her blood gloves look like they are more dense.
"If you're staying to fight... Don't underestimate her, she isn't called One-Two Applejack for nothing." Berry cautions as she raises her gloves in a fighting stance.
"Got it... Be careful, Raspberry." Rainbow cracks her knuckles and enters a more 'loose' looking fighting stance.
Berry and Rainbow charge at Applejack who simply smiles behind her helmet. Upon reaching her Rainbow throws a right hook, but Applejack ducks before countering with a blow to the stomach. Berry attempts two punches in quick succession which are blocked by Applejack who follows up with a sweep kick making both Berry and Rainbow jump. Before Rainbow can even begin to descend to the ground, Applejack gives her a sharp kick to the stomach which sends her flying into the end of a dumpster, indenting it. Berry back flips to attempt a kick, but her leg is grabbed and she is slammed into the right side wall with enough force that she indents it. Smacking her fists together, Applejack kicks Berry through the wall into the empty kitchen of an abandoned house. Berry picks herself up slowly using the island in the centre of the rather clean looking kitchen and looks at Applejack who is stepping through the hole in the wall.
"Why won't you Kansen ever learn. You can't stand up to the government..." Applejack states before picking up a kitchen knife and spinning it around her fingers.
"Stand up to this..." Rainbow's voice states firmly.
Applejack turns around for her helmet to be met with the fist of Rainbow, who continues to assault the mare's face and chest in repeated blows. After several seconds Applejack deflects a blow and stabs Rainbow in the thigh hard. She then takes out the knife, spins around Rainbow and stabs her in the back of her other lower leg. Bringing Rainbow to her knees, she then has her head smashed into the nearby wall and stabbed in the right upper arm. Applejack then takes off her helmet and smacks it into the back of Rainbow's head making her impact the wall again before her hand is impaled by the knife to stick into the wall.
"Now just sit there like a good fucking Kansen..." Applejack states, spitting blood onto the floor.
Berry charges at Applejack and attempts a one-two punch, but gets deflected easily before she is kicked back hard enough to indent the island and send it back against the kitchen counter. Apple jack rips out a knife drawer and slams it down on the nearby counter. She then picks up five medium sized kitchen knives and flips one around in her hand.
"You know... This was meant to go much smoother... but y'all just had to retaliate. You killed Sunset." Applejack's tone is pissed off and serious.
Upon mentioning Sunset, Applejack Expertly throws a kitchen knife into Berry's left thigh making it sink halfway in. Rainbow looks away as her partner screams in sheer pain. Applejack walks over to her and turns her head around before leaning on her to stop her looking away.
"You're going to fucking watch this, if your eyes are closed I'll cut off your fucking eyelids so you can't close 'em. You killed Spike." Applejack states.
Applejack throws the second Kitchen knife into Berry's right upper arm eliciting another scream.
"Those two were friends. This could have stopped there, but no... You only went and killed my mother fucking cousin and Sheriff Silverstar!" Applejack's voice spits with rage.
She throws one knife harshly at Berry's right shoulder making it leave only a quarter of the blade not stuck into her. The second knife is thrown and impales Berry's left hand halfway through.
"Is that all? I think I'm done for... Oh, no. Wait just a second. I have one more knife... Bonbon... She was going to retire soon to start a confectionery business with Lyra because this job was getting dangerous! You fucks took that away!" Applejack grits her teeth.
The final knife left Applejack's hand and impaled Berry in the right side of her chest, halfway in. Slumping to the floor in sheer pain and tears she is left helpless.
"Raspberry..." Rainbow mumbles through tears.
"Well, I think this has been a fun time... Now if y'all excuse me, I have to take Raspberry and do some questioning... You can fucking stay here, Brawler." Applejack hisses as she walks over to Berry and grabs her head before dragging her out of the building.
Rainbow removes the knife with a scream and slides into a sitting position looking around in a haze.
"Fuck... Fucking fuck... Damn it... Berry..." Rainbow slams her good fist into the wall and begins crying with what little energy she has left.
Author's Note
I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter and all the emotions that this brought to you. The back story and emotional relationships that are happening right now. The next chapter will be all about Verdammnis and some intermission stuff, if anyone is a fan of her then you will love finally getting to see her in all her psycho Kansen glory! Look forward to that very soon.
The Jester's True Nightmare
Twilight and Trixie step out of their car before going over to a M.A.G.I.C van where several standard government soldier stand aiming their guns at the double doors of an old Equestrian theatre.
"Situational report?" Twilight asks with a serious tone.
The closest soldier turns and salutes before giving a report.
"Purple Haze sir, the Jester is currently holed up inside this old abandoned Equestrian theatre. The last transmission from the Wonderbolt M.A.G.I.C. squad puts the Jester in the V.I.P viewing area of the theatre. Although it seems she has modified the place and we are unable to get a visual from the theatre floor. The room has one entrance and exit, other than that we are unable to ascertain the condition of the Wonderbolts at this time." The soldier states before going back to his position.
"So... How are we handling this?" Trixie asks as she leans against the van.
"Blowing up the theatre would cause more panic than it's worth... We can safely assume that the Jester has her minions in there keeping guard..." Twilight begins to fade off in thought.
Trixie bangs on the side of the van making it slide up to reveal a rack of advanced modified weapons ranging between pistols, assault rifles, shotguns and daggers.
"That basically means we are shooting our way in. Perhaps we could mix things up a little. After all our magic duo is second to none." Trixie gloats as she picks up and loads a shotgun.
"Trixie... We still need to be careful, this is the Jester... not just another street F rank Kansen. You're still coming to our anniversary dinner, right? It's going to be two years now." Twilight clears her throat as she loads an assault rifle and places daggers in her belt slots
"I know, I know... We live together now so it's hard for me to forget things." Trixie teases as she loads a pair of pistols and places them on her belt holsters.
"My parents are also coming to this dinner so please try to behave... It's taken me this long to win their approval of you." Twilight puts the assault rifle strap around her and gets the gun comfortable.
"Aww... So I can't flirt with you all night? Shit..." Trixie places a few daggers on the back of her belt and starts walking towards the theatre doors.
Twilight grabs a few explosives in a messenger bag, putting it over her opposite shoulder to her gun strap before catching up with Trixie.
"Please behave and I'll make it worth it that night." Twilight reassures Trixie as they reach the double doors.
"Fine, fine... Loud or quiet entrance?" Trixie prompts Twilight who places a magical C4 charge on the door.
"Hmm let's do it your way for once." Twilight states happily before using her horn to trigger the charge making it inwardly blow up the door.
The pair slowly walk into the theatre and scan the lobby for any hostile targets. Carefully checking each other's blind spots they progress deeper into the theatre.
"Remind me, I have to wear a dress don't I?" Trixie asks keeping back to back with Twilight.
"We have been together almost two years, of course you're wearing a dress to a restaurant. You should know by now how I like you to present yourself." Twilight states in defiance as they push open the doors to a dressing room.
"Okay, okay... I was teasing. I don't mind wearing a dress for you so long as you're the one who is removing it when we get home." Trixie smiles behind her helmet as they face forwards to meet the many blood red eyes of Heilung's signature Diamond Dog grunts.
"I count at least twenty five... Heilung Diamond Dog grunts... The Jester's normal playthings." Twilight stretches her fingers as the Diamond Dogs stare down the couple.
"This is where it gets very fun for me." Trixie states with glee as she unleashes a flash bang grenade into the centre of the room using her magic and sets it off.
The resulting explosion blinds many of the twenty five Diamond Dogs. Both Twilight and Trixie's helmet visors tint at the explosion of light. Trixie sprints off the spot and jumps up onto a table as she unloads a shell into the face of a nearby Diamond Dog. Cocking her shotgun she unloads another shell into the leaping face of a second Diamond Dog. Twilight takes a mere few steps forward before unloading three precise bullets between the eyes of three different Diamond Dogs putting them down before they even have time to move. Cocking her shotgun for the second time, Trixie pulls out a handful of daggers off her belt and throws them into the still blinded foreheads of four Diamond Dogs making them fall backwards onto the floor. A Diamond Dog attempts to leap at Twilight, but she hits him in the stomach with the butt of her rifle before stabbing him in the neck with her dagger. Twilight pulls out three daggers using magic and throws them into the chests of nearby Diamond Dogs, the ends of the daggers light up by Twilights magic and they explode the connected Diamond Dogs. Two Diamond Dogs leap at Trixie who ducks, letting them slam into each other and fall onto the table, they both look down at a grenade that explodes taking them with it. The remaining ten Diamond Dogs flee the room to regroup as a playful voice comes over an improvised communication system.
"Wow, you guys are out of touch. Fifteen of you mongrels were just gunned down with little effort. Get the fuck outta my theatre, I'll deal with these two myself. Hey, Pathogen, I'm in the room your little buddies should of told you about. Come find me and we'll have some fun." The voice states with glee as the system shuts off.
"What do you think? Still not up for bombing the theatre?" Trixie asks as she reloads her shotgun and walks over to Twilight.
"No, we should face her head on and radio for back up." Twilight shoulders her rifle and taps the side of her helmet. "HQ, we're going to need back up at the old abandoned Equestrian theatre. The Jester is playing around." Twilight taps her helmet again and sighs deeply.
"Well then... Shall we go deeper?" Trixie asks as Twilight nods in reply and they leave the dressing room.
Vinyl walks down the stairs and over to a Pegasus mare who has a grey coat with a blonde mane and tail, she has yellow crossed eyes. The mare is wearing a green forward facing cap, white shirt, green apron and blue jeans. She is happily spinning around the chair behind the counter.
"Derpy, you remember what to do if someone needs help?" Vinyl asks as she slides over the counter and turns around.
Derpy stops spinning suddenly and salutes at Vinyl with an enthusiastic nod.
"Yep! I should help them find whatever it is they are looking for and get them out the door as swiftly as possible without being rude!" Derpy smiles happily.
"Good girl, Derpy." Vinyl offers praise before leaving down the basement stairs.
Vinyl opens the heavy basement door and steps through to see Larvali pacing around while Erlöser is sitting on a crate, Flutterbat is leaning against the wall beside the door.
"So, what do you plan to do now... Rainbow lies upstairs in critical condition, Berry has been taken by One-Two Applejack and is likely already undergoing their unique interrogation technique. You're the boss here, what will you do?" Flutterbat asks shooting Larvali a serious expression.
"If you're looking to stir shit, Flutterbat... I suggest you leave my store. Things are getting bad enough that I don't require you causing trouble. I don't know what we can do..." Larvali sighs deeply before rubbing his eyes.
"Well... You lost the new arrival who fell from the sky, one of the Kansen under your district of care was taken, a full blown raid nearly killed us... I think you're getting old, Larvali." Flutterbat states with a disappointed tone.
"Get out..." Larvali growls at Flutterbat who giggles as she leaves.
"I'm sorry to say this Erlöser, but your marefriend is an utter bitch... I know you love her and all..." Vinyl states before leaning in Flutterbat's empty place.
"I know..." Erlöser admits hanging his head slightly.
"'I know'? You do love her don't you?" Larvali asks, banging his head against the wall.
"I think so... I don't know it was a kinda forced relationship. I'm not entirely sure how I properly feel about her." Erlöser mumbles quietly.
"Well, she can be quite headstrong... She wasn't always so, but our current world turns normal ponies into something else... Either way, Vinyl, I need you to try and dig up as much as your network can muster about where One-Two Applejack is keeping Berry. I don't plan to let her die at all, we just need to handle this matter carefully. Erlöser, I need you to go to the government building and look into where our new friend has gone. I heard from a passing Kansen Pegasus that she saw him enter the government building yesterday and has yet to appear again." Larvali asks as he turns around and slides down the wall to a sitting position.
"Sure, I'll be discreet when poking around. I mean, the colt was wearing a damn long black coat..." Erlöser states as he leaves.
"He won't be coming back for a few days will he?" Vinyl asks, cracking open one eye to look at Larvali.
"If we are lucky and what I know still matters for shit... Yeah, he should be gone long enough for us to sort shit out here... I hope." Larvali closes his eyes and groans.
Twilight and Trixie stop at the corner of the hallway leading to the V.I.P viewing area that the soldier outside mentioned. From within they could faintly hear a song being played.
"Keep your eyes and ears open, this won't be easy." Twilight looks at Trixie who glances at the door.
"Let's do this, we have to do something." Trixie comments as they approach the door.
The pair ease open the door making a beam of light pierce the darkness of the dimly lit hallway. Pushing into the room they scan their eyes around for hostile targets before coming to rest on the gold throne at the centre of the room on a few raised circle platforms. The room itself is cylindrical in nature with white walls that have gold features surrounding them. The classical music being played only adds to the atmosphere of the room, a few old Equestrian paintings hang on some of the walls. The viewing section of the room had indeed been removed and boarded up with plaster wall. On the throne itself sat a pitch black changeling girl with a blueish-green mane and tail. She wears a long pitch black open trench coat, tight white shirt, green vest, black trousers and a jester styled full face mask. Her glowing green eyes could be seen as her mask is up slightly, but her face is mostly blocked.
Sitting on the throne, on the Jester's lap is a naked gold coated Pegasus mare with an orange mane and tail that has amber highlights, her eyes are a dark orange. Leaning against the throne on the left side is a naked light blue coated Pegasus mare with a light grey mane and tail, her eyes are a fuchsia colour. Opposite her leaning against the right side of the throne is a naked light turquoise Pegasus mare with an amber mane and tail that has gold highlights, her eyes are a brilliant gamboge. The Jester appears to be making out with the mare on her lap.
"Verdammnis The Jester... Daughter of Queen Chrysalis, head of Heilung..." Twilight states readying her rifle.
Verdammnis sighs as she pulls away from the mare and strokes her cheek before putting her mask down.
"That's Spitfire, Fleetfoot and Lightning Dust... What did you do to them?!" Trixie demands pointing her shotgun at Verdammnis.
Spitfire cuddles up to Verdammnis and allows them to see the changeling's mask more clearly now. Verdammnis strokes Spitfire's mane as she laughs sinisterly.
"Me? I did nothing of course. What happened to them was just a change of heart. Their perspective on life and their role in it has been made clear to them now. You would call them traitors and whatever else... But I see three mares who survived a horrible ordeal in order to be enlightened." Verdammnis smiles widely behind her mask as she traces her fingers along Spitfire's curves.
"Where are the rest of the Wonderbolts?" Twilight asks looking around at the various piles of pony organs and flesh. Even some of the walls and paintings have parts of pony splashed on them.
"They either didn't survive the ritual or I killed them outright. That terrible male... Soarin? I killed him first and most painfully. The others tried too hard to resist me and ended up meeting the same fate. These three I took a specific liking to and made an effort to... 'Convert' them. Spitfire was ever so fiery and resistant at first, but once she tasted my blood her eyes were beautifully opened. Isn't that right, Spitfire?" Verdammnis looks at Spitfire who glances at Twilight and Trixie.
"It's true. We put up the best fight we could... She was simply too powerful. When the fighting was put to an end she rounded up who was left and gave us all some of her blood. It was... Madness at first, I felt like my mind was going to be torn apart by tiny little nails all clawing at once. Next came the voices that never seemed to end, although hardly any of us made it to the voices. After that It was like my insides were being twisted and turned, morphed into something they were never supposed to be..." Spitfire begins explaining.
"When our sight returned to us, we saw Verdammnis kneeling down beside our bodies. We felt... Different, changed. Everything seemed so new and fresh to us." Fleetfoot adds.
"Sights, smells, the ever so potent scent of fresh blood... Even our skin felt refreshed and new. It was unlike anything we had ever felt before... We liked it..." Lightning dust continues.
"Y-you turned them into Kansen?! You monster!" Trixie yells as she steps closer, cocking her shotgun.
"Our mistress taught us how to feed and how to survive... Taught us about the pleasure we had missed out on. She made us complete." Spitfire states with conviction as she snuggles up to Verdammnis.
"She turned you into Kansen! What are you even saying Spitfire!" Twilight asks, the stress evident in her voice.
"It's never been tested... Using a SSS+ Kansen blood on a normal pony. I guess it depends on the connection between the blood and the pony, how... Alike they are. These three felt something missing within themselves. I merely gave them what they so badly wanted... Acceptance and security." Verdammnis crosses her legs and adjusts Spitfire on her lap.
"Don't give us that bullshit! We're here to put an end to you!" Trixie states aiming her shotgun at Verdammnis.
Fleetfoot and Lightning Dust stand up and block their line of sight to Verdammnis. Spitfire stands up and moves between them as they stare the couple down.
"Move Wonderbolts! We don't want to kill you!" Twilight demands.
"Fuck that Twilight, they are the enemy now! It's either we kill them or they kill us!" Trixie states in frustration.
Trixie fires off a shotgun round, but it's blocked by a blood shield from Verdammnis. The changeling in question jumps over the Wonderbolts from her throne and waves her finger at them.
"It's not nice to attack my girls so soon after I've gained them... Perhaps you would consider joining me, Trixie?" Verdammnis asks as her right arm is coated in blood which morphs into a twisted changeling designed blade.
"You must think I'm stupid... I'd never even think about such a stupid offer..." Trixie states firing another shot at Verdammnis who blocks with her blade.
The splash from the shotgun hits her legs a little, but does nothing major. Verdammnis smirks behind her mask and sprints towards Trixie. Twilight throws a smoke bomb between them and attempts to unload half her magazine into Verdammnis. Bursting forth from the smoke Twilight is smacked hard using Verdammnis' free hand making her fly into the nearby wall. Trixie runs away and tries to hit Verdammnis with her shotgun, but every shell is blocked or deflected. Like a snake made of air Verdammnis slithers with great speed up to Trixie, making her gasp in surprise before her shotgun is cut in half and she is kicked hard in the gut.
"You government never learn! We will always be stronger than you! You two seem pretty close... I wonder how much sorrow and torment it would cause one of you should you witness the other's death..." Verdammnis chuckles as she grows long blood nails on her free hand and pick up Trixie by her head.
Verdammnis cracks and breaks her helmet making the pieces fall to the floor. She switches to holding her up by her mane and stabs her multiple times through the stomach.
"Trixie! No!" Twilight begins to run over to Trixie, but is stopped and restrained by the three former wonderbolts.
"Don't worry, little Twilight. She won't die yet... Not until after she goes through the ritual." Verdammnis hisses as she opens Trixie's mouth and drips some of her blood down her throat, making her swallow.
Verdammnis drops Trixie and retracts her blood weapons. Trixie attempts to crawl over to Twilight, but only gets halfway before stopping and holding her head while screaming in pain. Twilight is being restrained with both her arms held out by Fleetfoot and Lightning Dust while Spitfire is keeping her eyes open so she can watch Trixie. The mare in question screams in pure agony that fill the room and nearby theatre. Verdammnis is chuckling while constantly inspecting Trixie and looking at Twilight happily.
"Stop this Verdammnis!" Twilight pleads as she begins to cry.
"Hmm, even if I wanted to, which I don't... I can't. the only way for this to stop is if she dies or is turned." Verdammnis informs Twilight as she crosses her arms and taps her chin.
After several minutes Trixie stops holding her head and curls up into a ball, mumbling something about voices and whispers. Verdammnis slides in close and tries to make out what she is saying, but has no luck.
"She is doing better than expected..." Fleetfoot comments.
"Most stabbed themselves in the face or cut their face repeatedly." Lightning Dust adds.
Trixie stops rocking herself and slowly stands up making Verdammnis do the same while looking her over. Trixie looks around slowly before stopping on Twilight and freezing for a moment.
"Twi-" Was all Trixie managed to say before she exploded into a blood strewn mess which covered a small radius.
Verdammnis breaks out into a hysteric laughter which could only be described as blood chilling.
"Well, I have to admit it almost seemed like she was going to make it. She almost had me there after all that big talk, but it looks like we indeed share no common blood interest. Such a shame as well, she was a lovely shade of blue. Guess she is now such a delicious shade of blood red." Verdammnis takes off her mask and throws it across the floor before wiping her eyes.
"You fucking monster Verdammnis!" Twilight screams.
"You know what, I am. Thank you. However, think about this... We Kansen are only what you fucking government pigs made us to be! We were just like you once... Living perfectly normal lives side by side... Then one tiny event happens and suddenly we're all hunted. You ponies made us what we are today! We never had a choice! Now, neither do you... Get the fuck over it... Oh, before I go I figured you would be interested in this..." Verdammnis slides a file through Trixie's blood to stop in front of Twilight.
"What is this?" Twilight mumbles still being held.
"Nothing important... Just footage from the alleyway where Spike and Sunset were killed. Pulled CCTV footage, of course. Somepony went through a lot of trouble to cover it up. Just saying, of course. I'll leave you alone with what is left of your cocky lover..." Verdammnis snaps her fingers and the mares release Twilight.
Twilight simply let's her arms fall beside her as she stares at the file blankly. Verdammnis and her girls make their exit out the newly made back door into the theatre and escape. Twilight has a thousand thoughts going through her head at once, mainly trying to figure out how this could all be a dream and how she could wake up instantly. Beside her would be Trixie and they would go to their anniversary dinner in the evening. Thoughts about how she'd still be able to see Trixie in the luxury blue dress she brought her special for tonight. How her parents would finally accept Trixie and not judge their relationship anymore. That however, was the true dream. Reality was a much darker outcome then she ever wanted.
"We should have bombed the theatre..." Twilight mumbles under her breath as tears fall down onto the file.
The reality... Trixie was nothing more than a bloody mess on the floor. She'd never be able to wear that dress and Twilight's parents will never see how much she had improved to be able to accept her. The even colder reality... Twilight will never wake up beside her precious blue unicorn again.
"I should have bombed the theatre..." Twilight mumbles again.
"'That would cause more panic than it's worth', were these not the words from your mouth?" A calm female voice asks from behind.
Twilight briefly replies, with what could only be described as an unenthusiastic nod.
"The back up is late... I wish we bombed the theatre..." Twilight sniffs as she doesn't move her gaze from the file.
"So do I, even though the resulting panic would have been worth killing the turned Wonderbolts. I doubt Verdammnis would be so easy to die. Would you still have bombed the theatre if it only meant the deaths of three Wonderbolts and some injured civilians?" The voice asks as the pony who it belongs to kneels beside Twilight.
"Yes... It'd mean we kept a Pathogen member... Trixie..." Twilight looks to whom the voice belongs to only to see Night Guard Captain Hémolyse.
"Your fiancé... Or did you not ask yet?" Hémolyse asks with a raised eyebrow.
"I never got around to asking... No moment seemed good enough... I was going to do it at the anniversary dinner right in front of my parents..." Twilight wipes her eyes.
"We have agents going after Verdammnis and the turned Wonderbolts. Allow me to escort you back to your room for rest. Letting you be alone right now, would be a bad choice." Hémolyse helps Twilight up after she grabs the file.
"You mean as an alternative to taking away my weapon and making me go on leave for a little while..." Twilight states with a very flat tone.
"Perhaps... You know that is not intended as a punishment all the time. Given the circumstances I don't feel you need that form of care. Shall we?" Hémolyse places a blanket around Twilight's shoulders before leading her out of the theatre and instead of getting into a vehicle, begins walking towards the government building.
Author's Note
I hope you all enjoyed this chapter. Holy crap the feels! You would not believe the amount I had while writing this last bit. Much to the opposite effect on my co-author who was so nonchalant about it... I pray the same effect is felt by those of you reading it as that's my intention. Look forward to the next chapter where things may or may not explode.
Erlöser stands in front of the government building looking up and down at its shear size. Deciding to wait a day before entering, he now wonders if coming here was a good idea. Being morning, a lot of ponies are coming to and fro from the building. Taking a deep sigh Erlöser enters the government building and looks around the lobby for a sign board which he walks over to and inspects.
"Where would he likely be..?" Erlöser ponders.
He looks to the top of the board to notice a note pointing to the top two floors of the building labelled 'Pathogen'. The note reads: 'He is up here, have fun. ^_^'.
"There is no way it's going to be that easy..." Erlöser deadpans.
Looking below that note he can see another appear out of thin air. The note reads: 'It could be, if you let it. ^_^'.
"Fine... I can't believe I'm having a conversation with mystical post it notes..." Erlöser sighs deeply before walking off towards the elevators.
Upon reaching the elevators the left one opens instantly to reveal that it's empty. Erlöser walks inside the elevator and pushes the button for the third to top floor, the doors close and the elevator begins its journey upwards. After a few minutes the elevators stop and open making Erlöser step out. Looking around he can see nothing wrong with the long hallway that stretches out before him.
"Why does this feel like a trap... Or perhaps something entirely different..." Erlöser ponders as he rubs his forehead.
"Well, only one way to find out..."
For once, heeding the advice from the voice in his head Erlöser presses onwards down the hallway before reaching a pair of double doors bearing Princess Luna's cutie mark. Slowly pushing open the doors he makes his way inside and lets the door close behind him. This time the room is fully lit and Princess Luna can be seen sitting on the throne.
"I was wondering when this meeting would take place. However, I didn't know that I'd have both of you here at the same time. I don't know if this is the happiest moment of my life or the worst... If nothing else I am relieved." Princess Luna states with a slight smile, Erlöser can see her eyes are closed.
"I'm not entirely sure what I'm doing here... I was sent here to find a friend who may have wandered in. Perhaps you might have seen him, your highness?" Erlöser asks with a slight bow.
"You sincerely never need to do that. Your friend indeed came here to seek answers, I fought him to say the least. However, do not worry yourself as he is mostly unharmed... Erlöser, why else are you here? Or perhaps it's some pony else that seeks answers within you?" Princess Luna stands up and walks over to Erlöser.
"Does she know? How could she know?"
"Why am I here then?" Erlöser asks with a puzzled expression.
"Walk with me and perhaps we can find out." Princess Luna states as she walks out the door making Erlöser follow close behind.
Princess Luna takes Erlöser up the hallway and takes him through a pair of double doors. The room looks like a slightly modified gym with punching bags, weight lifting apparatus of various natures and rooms at the back with a few windows to see into them.
"This is where our agents train to hone their new blood abilities. It caters for various abilities and is available for alteration should a new ability present itself." Princess Luna explains.
"Why are we here..?" Erlöser asks looking around.
"I'll show you." Princess Luna states as she takes Erlöser over to the first room at the back of the gym.
Through the window Erlöser can see that the room is pure white with a grid engraved all over its surface, on the left side wall is a terminal.
"These are simulation rooms which allow our agents to make whatever scenario they wish. Sometimes simulations require permission, but most are given the okay. Take a look." Princess Luna directs Erlöser to look through the window.
Looking through the window he can see Lyra undergoing a raid simulation where she is fighting off around five Kansen. Princess Luna pulls up an information panel on the window and slides it over to Erlöser so he can see it. Simulation: Theatre raid. Enemy count: 50/5. Difficulty: Nightmare.
"Touch screen windows... Cool. Who is the mare?" Erlöser asks sliding the information window back to Princess Luna.
"She is Lyra Heartstrings. Released from Dr. Sinclair's experiments, yesterday. She seems to be preforming well given her choice of simulation." Princess Luna comments.
The pair can see that Lyra is fighting using a lyre while a small pony made from blood fights the enemies alongside Lyra using a short sword made from blood.
"Most if not all of Pathogen have Kansen blood mixed into them to improve their effectiveness in the field... This was a needed countermeasure." Princess Luna states before turning around and taking Erlöser out of the gym.
"Are you like they are?" Erlöser asks as they head back towards the throne room and turn left up some stairs.
"Not exactly, no. I was not injected with any other Kansen's blood. I have given my blood to another, yes." Princess Luna replies as they climb a flight of stairs and turn right.
"So, you're a Kansen?" Erlöser asks as they stop outside of some more double doors beside a plaque that reads 'Spa'.
"Yes, I am a pure blood Kansen like you and the rest of our kind. All of Pathogen, besides Screwball, Discord's daughter, is an artificial Kansen made by Dr. Sinclair." Princess Luna explains as she takes Erlöser into the spa.
Upon entering the spa Erlöser can see that it's a little less fancy than the gym, but has a high tech feel to it. There are normal massage alcoves to the right, spa baths of various natures at the back, a large normal spa bath in the centre of the room and special Kansen alcoves to the right side. Erlöser can see Scorpia sitting in the spa bath in the centre of the room.
"Are you kidding me? Larvali sends me here to find you and you're relaxing in a spa bath..?" Erlöser asks wearing a deadpan expression.
"It's not exactly like I asked you to come looking for me, nor did you have much reason to do so." Scorpia replies with his eyes closed.
"Yea... But Larvali said you walked in here... Wearing what you did... Forgive me for being a little concerned about 'the new guy', who might I add, fell from the damn sky nude." Erlöser states rubbing his forehead.
"I swear that gets better every time you hear it." Octavia's voice resounds from an alcove on the right.
"Oh... Hello, Octavia... I think..." Erlöser replies with a slight blush.
"Yes, it's Octavia." Scorpia replies with a flick of his ear. "New guy... I guess it makes sense why you might worry, but keep in mind, I fell into an ambush and had no trouble surviving. It might have been a little troublesome with Ivory, had she not been flustered." Scorpia opens his eyes to look at Erlöser.
"Either way... I came here out of concern, although I now have the feeling you're not the real reason I was sent here..." Erlöser states flatly.
Octavia walks out of the right side, first alcove and stretches while wearing a towel. "You two are so alike... Always being sounding stressed and serious. It would pay you both to loosen up a little bit." Octavia comments as she removes her towel and folds it up to place it beside the centre spa bath before getting in, which elicits a slight moan of relief.
Erlöser blushes slightly before clearing his throat. "It's not entirely my fault... Lady Flutterbat has me doing arena battles most days I'm off from work... I don't enjoy being so serious."
"You don't complain to her either..."
"If you don't enjoy it, just don't be serious. Fighting doesn't have to be stressful. It can be fun... or do you already know that? Is that why you're still there?" Scorpia asks.
"I don't know why I'm anywhere right now... The only reason I'm at the arena is because of Lady Flutterbat, the only reason I'm with her is because it was thrown at me and I didn't know what I was thinking at the time... Now I'm standing in a spa, in the government building casually talking to the colt I came in here to find, next to Princess Luna, the mare who runs Pathogen, the very organisation who oppose Kansen and she is a Kansen herself... I have no damn clue what is even happening right now, let alone what I enjoy doing..." Erlöser states, sounding very frustrated making his eyes flicker between normal and a slightly brighter blood red in a dragon style.
"Hmm... You aren't really arguing with any of it. Otherwise, at least the parts with your 'Lady', wouldn't be 'thrown at you'. Anyway, you sound annoyed. We're in a spa. You should relax. That's the point of a spa. You know that right?" Scorpia states, trying slightly to calm Erlöser.
"Need you sound so damn sarcastic? I seriously do not need you to sound so condescending..." Erlöser replies sounding more annoyed.
Princess Luna rolls her eyes and does something on Erlöser's neck to make his body fall limp and catch him.
"That is quite enough of that... Scorpia, perhaps a little less? It did sound... Slightly obnoxious. Aloe, Lotus, the full works please." Princess Luna demands making two earth ponies come out from the alcove Octavia was in and quickly take Erlöser from Princess Luna and back into the alcove.
"Will this be including the blood massage?" Aloe asks popping her head out of the alcove.
"Yes please, he shouldn't feel much pain during the more painful techniques as he is relaxed right now." Princess Luna replies as Aloe pops her head back inside the alcove.
"One can but hope. He may have been knocked out, but you never know what the subconscious will think up as you rest." Scorpia comments as a scream of pain comes from the alcove.
"What are you doing to my blood?! Holy shit that hurts!" Erlöser complains, but is hushed with a hand.
"Language Erlöser! Hmm... That's odd... That should have least had him out cold for the painful techniques..." Princess Luna looks slightly perplexed.
"He was just knocked out. That tenses you a bit. Also... who knows what lies in his subconscious." Scorpia comments.
"Yes... Who knows... Perhaps I will also take a relaxing massage, Aloe." Princess Luna states as she enters the alcove beside Erlöser.
Aloe exits the alcove and enters the alcove next door. Octavia sighs slightly and stands up before stretching again. She then steps out of the spa bath and wraps her towel around her.
"I shall see you around, Scorpia. Princess Luna, good day and Erlöser do try and relax..." Octavia briefly waves to Scorpia before leaving the spa.
"Sorry if I seemed rude. If anything, I was slightly tense as well." Scorpia sighs before slipping deeper into the bath.
"Why would you be tense..? Also, I guess I should apologise as well... I'm somewhat-" Erlöser is muffled again as he produces a scream. "Stressed! Because of recent events and my 'Lady' who could be more compared to a prison warden!" Erlöser can be heard hitting the massage bed hard once.
"Princess Luna, should I be concerned about killing this colt? He is extremely tense and has never had a massage in his life as far as I can tell from his blood." Lotus asks, sounding slightly worried.
"Not at all, continue as normal." Princess Luna states, a slight vibration in her voice.
"Why would I be tense? I am now in a different world than my own. I am apparently something wanted dead by the operatives that base themselves here. Coming here, I received more questions and no answers. I had to fight a mare I hold close to my heart... Although it was really just defence on my part. And finally... The mare that was just in this bath." Scorpia explains, closing his eyes.
"The only mare I know you have fought is Bonbon; why does Octavia make you tense? Oh..." Erlöser asks before trailing off into a moan.
"There we go." Lotus hums pleasingly.
"I fought Luna when I got here. Sort of... Like I said, I was mostly just defending. I'm not sure I would have been able to hit her, but even if I could, I'd never be able to. As for Octavia... let's just say things were very different back in that other Equestria." Scorpia adds.
"So Princess Luna is special to you and different in the other world? Are you married to her or dating or something?" Erlöser asks, his voice sounding much more relaxed than before.
"Not married, no. We are together there, though. It's the only reason I left when Vinyl showed the other day. I couldn't be there." Scorpia states.
"Oh... Vinyl thought she said something wrong. I guess I can understand how awkward that must be to see the same mare in another universe with another pony." Erlöser states, in understanding.
"At least we are all having a pleasant conversation now, no hostile tension in the atmosphere." Princess Luna comments as she walks out of the alcove naked and slips into the big spa bath.
"Scorpia... I've a question for you. What comes to your mind when I say Zerstörung?" Princess Luna asks, as she watches Scorpia.
Scorpia opens his eyes and tilts his head, one ear rising in alert and the other falling to the side. "Aside from you saying it at the end of our little scuffle? Just a... Fuzziness. Same as before."
"Your body seems to know something, your ears more specifically." Princess Luna points out with a slight smile.
"The ears may know, but I don't. All I'm feeling is a fuzziness... The only thought my mind goes to is the number seven." Scorpia states looking up at his ears.
Princess Luna nods before extending one of her blood tentacles from her back over to Scorpia.
"Would you kindly taste something for me? Just a small amount of my blood. Call it, curiosity." Princess Luna smiles slightly.
"A curiosity? A morbid one." Scorpia replies before complying.
Princess Luna uses her tentacle to drip a little bit of her blood into Scorpia's mouth and retracts it afterwards. Scorpia can feel something very odd inside him, insanely comforting and oddly familiar. His eyes slowly begin to flutter as he seems to be falling asleep.
"That's the expected result... My little Zerstörung." Princess Luna states warmly before he falls asleep.
Twilight opens her eyes and stares at the ceiling before sighing deeply. Rolling over she comes face to face with Hémolyse, who simply smiles as she lifts her hand up to brush it through Twilight's mane.
"Do you feel better?" Hémolyse asks calmly.
"Not really... But, it's better than what it could have been... I suppose my ecstasy filled dream was real after all. The Night Guard Captain lives up to her reputation of being amazing." Twilight comments lightly before snuggling up to Hémolyse.
"I know this wont feel easy for whatever amount of time, however, I shall be here. Needless to say I've an interest in you. While I feel wrong for this happening this way... It saved you from the alternative." Hémolyse nuzzles Twilight affectionately.
"I don't mind... I know a bar would have been my destination last night. I just... Am finding it hard to believe she is gone... Two years, ended by that Kansen... Verdammnis." Twilight closes her eyes as a tear slides down her cheek.
"I know... I'm not happy with the report from the theatre pursuit. It would appear that she got away with all three surviving Wonderbolts. We're trying our best to locate her, but the jester isn't known to be easily found unless she wants to be." Hémolyse tries to comfort Twilight.
"This means we're together now doesn't it? I doubt you would spend that kind of night with a mare you'd want to be a one night stand just to comfort her broken heart. I'm not even remotely against it either. I don't want to be alone..." Twilight buries her muzzle into Hémolyse's chest.
Hémolyse runs her fingers through Twilight's mane before sighing deeply. She cuddles Twilight close for a hug, but lets go shortly after.
"We're still getting up today, even if you're off duty. I am still on duty, so if you want to follow me around today I don't mind. I just need to take a shower." Hémolyse states to Twilight who nods in reply and reluctantly lets Hémolyse get out of bed.
Hémolyse walks over to and enters the bathroom before Twilight hears the shower start up. Grabbing a nearby blanket she drapes it over her shoulders in an attempt to fight off the cold in the room. Cracking her neck she wanders over to the desk in the room which appears to belong to Hémolyse as does the whole room. On the desk Twilight can see the blood stained file that Verdammnis gave her. Taking a deep breath she opens the file and begins flipping through the pictures from the CCTV cameras which show Sunset and spike being killed. Fighting back tears and shoving them aside she reads the report given in by the agent who found the scene. It details nothing that she didn't know already, but looking past that she opens a mysterious envelope addressed to her labelled: 'Things you should know <3'.
"What is this..?" Twilight mumbles before sitting down and opening the envelope.
Twilight takes out the envelope's contents and begins flicking through the various pictures. These images detail when Verdammnis came in with her Diamond Dogs to retrieve Erlöser and Rainbow Dash. Verdammnis smiles widely at the camera before deactivating Erlöser's mask which shows his face. Twilight looks at the bathroom then back to the pictures with a shocked expression. The last few images are of Verdammnis showing a heart shape with her hands to the camera before the whole group leave.
"Son of a bitch..." Twilight mouths before putting the pictures back in the envelope, which then goes back inside the file.
Twilight closes the file as Hémolyse walks out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around her waist while drying her hair with a separate towel. After drying off Hémolyse gets changed into a fresh uniform and walks over to Twilight.
"Are you getting changed?" Hémolyse asks stroking Twilight's cheek.
"Yeah, just give me a minute." Twilight nuzzles Hémolyse's hand before she takes it away.
Twilight sighs deeply before brushing her hair and finding a fresh uniform of her's nearby on the dresser. Putting it on she sighs deeply as Hémolyse wraps her arms around Twilight's waist.
"Today wont be as bad as you think." Hémolyse comforts Twilight as she lets go again to find her weapons.
"I hope so..." Twilight mumbles before closing her eyes.
Scorpia opens his eyes and looks around the room to find he is now in what looks like a recreational room. Opposite the sofa he lays on is a fireplace, to his left and right are two more sofas forming the three into an archway. Past the right side sofa can be seen an area with a pool table and vending machines. Near the door into the room is an area set up with bean bags and bookcases likely for reading. Sitting on the sofa to the left is Princess Luna on the centre seat with Erlöser sitting opposite her on the right side sofa.
"Did you enjoy your nap?" Princess Luna asks, looking at Scorpia.
"When fighting, it is nearly inevitable to get a bit of blood in your mouth whether it be yours or your enemy's. Never have I tasted any ponies blood that was a narcotic... what is in your blood?" Scorpia asks, disregarding Princess Luna's question.
"It is my blood. There is no simple way to explain the effect it has on you and Erlöser. To put it bluntly, my blood has a narcotic effect on you two because of two reasons. One: me being the Princess of Night gives it the Kansen effect it does. Two: It's because of your connection to me that makes it work on you two. Kansen are different to normal ponies in many ways. One of which is being able to control and manipulate our blood in unique ways to suit each individual. Two is that we have much deeper connections with each other than normal ponies. For example, if a Kansen has deep feelings for another Kansen their blood will reflect that if consumed by the Kansen those feelings are for. An even better example would be if a Kansen like... The Brawler somehow got her blood into the mouth of Erlöser which caused a blood dragon to burst out of his back..." Princess Luna looks at Erlöser who smiles awkwardly and looks away.
"Oh... Yeah, that..." Erlöser rubs the back of his neck.
"Yes, that... One can only assume that the Brawler had certain feelings for you which were conceived when you tasted her blood. This action also allowed your Kansen abilities which had not yet manifested to become fully active inside you. I'd wager it was also the strength of her initial feelings that led to the very graphic display of your dragon bursting forth from you." Princess Luna explains.
"I see... That actually hurt a lot that night..." Erlöser replies.
"I've no doubt... Questions, Scorpia?" Princess Luna asks, crossing her legs and looking at Scorpia.
"What exactly is our connection here... In this world? And what's with the dragon?" Scorpia asks, sitting up.
"Well, Erlöser was born here in this world... If you have not yet realised this is also your home, you do now. The dragon, however, requires a deeper explanation... Or perhaps I should say 'dragons' as in more than one... Any other questions before I begin this history lesson?" Princess Luna prompts the pair.
"Not that I can think of that won't be explained anyway." Erlöser states, before looking at Scorpia.
"You didn't answer my first question... so will that be answered in this little explanation of yours?" Scorpia moves into a proper sitting position.
"I suppose I was quite vague... Well, to begin with... Throughout the course of history Kansen have always been around. No race nor gender is limited from being born a Kansen or becoming a Kansen. There is also a rank system within Kansen society which places you in any of the ranks from the highest SSS to the lowest G. However, there is an exception to this rule, the legendary SSS+ rank Kansen. These Kansen have been broken and reforged within their mental limits which have enabled them to gain higher blood powers. A Kansen's parents also determines how powerful you might be growing up. I am one such example of a SSS+ Kansen, my powers are beyond that of a SSS like the Blood Knight. Now... To explain your connection here and why my blood does what it does... Scorpia, you remember before you went into the spa you fought a Kansen in the simulator, yes?" Princess Luna prompts Scorpia.
"SSS+... Nightmare Moon? And yes, whoever it was, they nearly killed me before I stopped the simulation. I don't think I've ever been in that situation. Never had the fear of death. Not like that." Scorpia states.
"Yes, it was the events of Nightmare Moon that led to my accession into SSS+. That masked Kansen was the Elder Blood Dragon, the arbiter of destruction and salvation... My former husband and your joint father... Zeitlos." Princess Luna explains as she looks at the pair.
"Hold on..." Erlöser mumbles.
"You're saying..." Scorpia begins.
Both Erlöser and Scorpia share a puzzled and suspicious look at each other.
"Erlöser and Zerstörung, the twin dragons of salvation and destruction. The two very important gifts that you posses from your father. Needless to say from this explanation, but I am your mother. Thus explains why my blood has the narcotic affect it does because of our close blood connection and why your blood will also affect each other in its own unique way. Also... That is your true name Scorpia, Zerstörung, the Elder Blood Dragon of Destruction. You are both half pony, half dragon and are born from two SSS+ Kansen. You have also had previous incarnations being of the two dragons. Those, however, I know nothing about and only your father would know." Princess Luna states looking between them.
"Weirdest family reunion ever..." Erlöser states blinking a few times.
"Indeed... This is not how we quite planned things, but... Stuff happened. Questions?" Princess Luna un-crosses her legs.
"Just... If you really are my mother... I may not know the reason... But do you realise how far back you sent me or why the number seven was the only thing to come to mind?" Scorpia asks.
"You were seven years old when you had to be sent away in order to protect you. Things were heating up between the government and Kansen, we had managed to keep our secret for a while... But with you coming into the development of your abilities, we were afraid that you would be found out and didn't want you hurt. Neither did we desire to destroy an entire society just to keep what we really are secret. You might also argue that Erlöser is still here and was never sent away... Things escalated quickly after you were sent and little time was left to send him with you. Your father has since been missing or dead and I had to give Erlöser a new home with the explicit instructions he only be told that his parents died in an accident. This event was fabricated using a couple who worked with us closely at the time and forged all of Erlöser's current standing documents of his birth and events leading up to him being four years old. Since then I've counted the years and days till your return and prayed Erlöser remain safe and his powers dormant. This was scrapped when the Brawler came into the picture and awoke you." Princess Luna deeply explains.
"Once again, you failed to answer my first question. Do you even realise how far you sent me back?" Scorpia asks, slightly agitated.
"Our calculations should have put you somewhere... In a universe which should have had the same time span as this one. In essence you would have spent only fourteen years in that world. I take it we gravely miscalculated..?" Princess Luna asks, unsure of her answer.
"Gravely miscalculated..? That is the biggest understatement I have ever heard. What you are saying is that I should be twenty-one... Oh, how long ago that that year passed. As far as I'm concerned, you are not my mother. My mother has long been dead." Scorpia states before getting up to leave.
"Zerstörung... Were there another way to do what we did, thou must believe that we would have taken it... This war was never meant to even happen, conflict was never a possibility. I cannot ask you to forgive me, however, I would ask that should you want or care enough to know how bad it got... Go to what remains of Ponyville and see for yourselves. That's all I can say in order to try and convince you. Regardless of what you might think of me, I still deeply care about you and your brother. Of course, you are not confined here in anyway and may come and go as you desire. Just know that you have a room here whenever you wish to stay." Princess Luna explains as she stands up.
"You want any idea as to my age? I was raised by Clover. I remember when Equestria wasn't even Equestria. Twenty-one years old..." Scorpia scoffs before walking out.
"I'm sorry..." Princess Luna says under her breath before taking a deep sigh.
Erlöser moves over to sit next to Princess Luna and awkwardly hugs her tightly. Princess Luna, after a few seconds, hugs Erlöser back.
"Hi mother..." Erlöser whispers as he buries his face into her.
"Hello, son..." Princess Luna whispers to Erlöser who hugs her closer.
As Scorpia exits the room and turns left to walk down the hall only to come face to face with Princess Celestia. She looks Scorpia up and down before tilting her head to the side and wearing a soft expression.
"Nephew... I was wondering when I'd finally see you again." Princess Celestia states warmly.
"Yes, and what a great 'fourteen' years it's been, 'aunt' Tia." Scorpia replies flatly.
"I see... Well, if that very uncomfortable conversation has already been had, I'd imagine you'd need time to think on all of what you just learnt in there. I'll leave you with only this before you go." Princess Celestia states before hugging Scorpia lightly.
Scorpia tilts his head to look at her, "As much as I'd like to reciprocate the feeling, it's been far too long, and you aren't the mare I know. I'm sure there was a time, but seven... Those years are gone. I'm not even sure I want to remember at this point."
"I don't blame you. This is, after all, not the world you have known your entire life. Nor are we the family you have known for that long either. No matter if you stay or go, remember or don't, I'm still extremely happy to see you, welcome home... Zerstörung." Princess Celestia lets go of Scorpia with a slight kiss on the cheek before moving to the side with a smile.
Scorpia walks past, heading towards the elevator, "See you, later. Or not. Whichever. Either way, I'm going to the only place I can really think to call home right now."
As Scorpia disappears from view around the corner Princess Celestia sighs deeply. Princess Luna exits the room with Erlöser seconds later and stop in front of Princess Celestia.
"Ah, both nephews in one day. This is turning out to be a fortuitous day after all." Princess Celestia states warmly as she and Erlöser share a brief embrace.
"Hello, Aunt? I suppose that's what you would be. I don't know... Today has been rough in many ways... I finally find out I have a real family, I had a life threatening massage which ended up being so much more enjoyable than I thought possible. I learnt I have a slightly agitating brother... Among other useful things... Like my dad is a dragon, that explains a lot..." Erlöser recants some of what he has learnt.
"Well, I'm happy you have had a productive day. Perhaps we could talk for a while in my study before you leave?" Princess Celestia offers.
"That would be nice... I guess me staying here would be bad... I have a lot of friends at home... Thinking about it, this is very awkward." Erlöser states uncomfortably.
"I understand, but I cannot do anything about our fixed goal. It's been too long and the normal ponies view of the government and Kansen has been warped drastically. The only way for this war to end is for there to be a clear victor. Queen Chrysalis wont rest until her and her organisation tear down every government banner and building. Until such a time that peace is a possibility, Pathogen is required. I'm sorry, I wish I could do so much more... Alas, like with your brother, I failed." Princess Luna states with sadness.
"I'm confident it wasn't-" Erlöser is cut off by a screaming voice.
"You son of a bitch Kansen!" The voice states as it get's closer.
Everypony turns to look down the hall to see Twilight running at him with her sword drawn. Reaching Erlöser, Twilight attempts a spiral slash, but is instead blocked by a tentacle from Princess Luna's back. Twilight's eyes widen from shock and she stumbles backwards before being harshly disarmed by Princess Celestia via use of pressure points in her arm. Princess Celestia draws her own slightly decorated royal sabre which has a slightly thin blade with a curve.
"Oh, well this is a surprising development. I wonder how your faithful student learnt of my son's true nature..." Princess Luna retracts her tentacle and folds her arms.
"Indeed dear sister... I too wish to know the origin of her knowledge..." Princess Celestia muses as she glares at Twilight.
"I have a folder that shows me he killed Sunset and Spike! He is a damn Kansen! Your son?! Is Princess Luna a Kansen too?!" Twilight reels off in her panicked state holding her arm.
"Hmm, yes, Twilight I am. Does this knowledge make you think less of me? Does it make you despise your mentor for having a Kansen sister? Perhaps we should kill her and be done with this mess..." Princess Luna comments flatly.
"If that is our ultimate choice... As much as I love you as my own and as faithful a student as you are, this goes far deeper than you could have hoped for... Forgive me, Twilight Sparkle." Princess Celestia states with a very sad tone.
Princess Celestia raises her blade and slams it down towards Twilight to end her life, only to be surprised when the sound of metal upon metal was heard next. Looking towards Twilight all three could see that Hémolyse had appeared and slightly drawn her blade to stop Princess Celestia. After she withdraws, Hémolyse sheathes her blade fully and kneels on the floor.
"Princess Celestia, please forgive my insolence. I must humbly request you forgive Twilight and allow me to deal with this matter...I understand the situation that is at stake and the risk she currently poses to the royal family's secret. However, I beg you, as Captain of the Night Guard, that you allow me, Ivory Moon... To attempt to help her understand the situation." Hémolyse begs as she bows her head sincerely.
"And should she not understand her position and the gravity of what she has uncovered..?" Princess Luna asks, staring at Hémolyse.
"I will end her swiftly without any hesitation." Hémolyse states with conviction.
"Even though you love her dearly and have longed to be with her for a long time now?" Princess Luna kneels down to raise Hémolyse's head so their eyes meet.
"My loyalty is first and foremost to the Princess of the Night. As per my pledges, I will not falter, nor hesitate in fulfilling the duty that was bestowed upon me by you, your highness." Hémolyse recites without blinking or stuttering.
"Very well... This will put your very title on the line. If you fail to end her life upon her not understanding where she stands, I will strip you of your position, brand you a traitor and cast you out of the Royal Night Guard. Do you understand the gravity of this situation?" Princess Luna asks as she stands up with Hémolyse.
"Yes, my liege." Hémolyse states in confirmation with a slight nod.
Hémolyse turns to Twilight and takes her close before whispering something which makes her freeze. After a few minutes she is then slowly taken away by Hémolyse.
"I guess I should leave before things get worse... Thank you again for having me here. I'm sorry for the trouble I caused." Erlöser states in apology.
Princess Luna shakes her head. "No trouble at all. If you have a phone I will upload the coordinates to your phone relating to Ponyville. If you see your brother, please look after him. He might be more open to you than he will be me."
"Of course, goodbye for now... Mother, Auntie." Erlöser states before leaving the same way Scorpia did.
"This will only escalate further... We are losing control and ground, dear sister." Princess Celestia states as they begin to walk up the hallway.
"Yes, this war will soon reach its climatic stage and everything we knew will be torn down. Whatever is left when the dust settles... I only hope it is better for all of us." Princess Luna replies.
"You and me both, dear sister." Princess Celestia sighs deeply.
Author's Note
All the reveals! I hope you guys found this chapter as fun as we did writing it. I'm sure many of you can imagine what the next chapter is, but I'll keep you in suspense. The next chapter will also be the last this month until LoB's turn comes around again. Stay tuned for more, Frozen out!
The Truth About Ponyville
Erlöser stands, glued in place as he stares at the highly damaged ruins of houses and shops which are black and burned. The ground is severely scarred and littered with trash, skeletons and other dead creatures. Erlöser looks on the ground to see many puddles of red glowing goo which give off a dangerous air. Behind him can be seen the government taxi car that dropped him off speeding away with due haste.
"Guess we came this far..." Erlöser sighs deeply before continuing on into Ponyville.
"What do you hope to see here? There is nothing here, but ruins and drug addicts..."
"I believe that's the point... There is nothing here... Ponyville used to be a popular place to live. It was comfy and very friendly.... Least that's what I remember." Erlöser ponders as he walks past a destroyed shop bearing the sign 'Sugarcube Corner'.
"What are we supposed to learn from some old relics and dead ponies?"
"I don't know okay, just be quiet..." Erlöser rolls his eyes and jumps past some red goo.
The air is suddenly still and nothing can be heard around them. Erlöser looks around nervously unsure of what such a place could hold for him. As he gets closer to the Everfree forest he can see quite a large portion of it was burnt down or uprooted. More skeletons and half pony bodies can be found leading up to and into the forest.
"It looks like a slaughter took place here... What the shit happened here..." Erlöser mumbles to himself before staring into the forest.
Erlöser can feel a slight nagging at the back of his mind, a little voice telling him to press forth and into the Everfree. Despite how much he tries, he cannot shake the nagging feeling and decides to follow it into the forest after sighing deeply. Several minutes into the forest and the skeleton count simply goes up more and more along with the red goo count till it fans out in the deepest reaches.
"I doubt many made it this far... What's in this place that is so important?" Erlöser looks around before heading towards an old looking rope bridge.
Crossing the bridge he comes face to face with a large castle covered by fog and thick vines. Looking around he can see several windows are broken and the whole structure is in disrepair. Taking a deep breath Erlöser enters the castle and looks around to find the interior in an even worse state. He decides to nose around and see if there is anything important he could find that might tell him what happened in Ponyville. Erlöser enters a library looking large room which has quite a few books in it despite its current state. Leaving the room Erlöser walks down a couple of hallways to find a bedroom emitting a horrible smell combined with puddles of red goo. Taking that as a sign he leaves the bedroom and continues his exploration. After several minutes on the second floor he sighs and leans against a wall.
"I don't even know what I'm looking for, let alone what might be here that isn't already gone..." Erlöser muses to himself before suddenly falling down a trap door that opens beneath him.
A pair of eyes in a nearby painting shift to look where Erlöser was before leaving the painting and the normal painted eyes return in its place.
Erlöser opens is eyes to find himself lying on his ass looking up at a ceiling. Sitting up he looks around to see he is now in an ancient looking ruin type place with odd markings on the walls and pillars. Erlöser stops when he can see Scorpia standing in front of a large carving of twin dragons that seem to represent destruction and redemption.
"How did you get down here?" Erlöser asks, picking himself up from the floor.
"This place has always been full of 'traps'. Great fun for a couple of kids. Makes a game of hide and seek extremely interesting. On the other hand, it's a very good defence against anypony who doesn't live here. There have always been multiple ways to get into a single room. You seem to have found the same 'trap' I did. The difference being you weren't expecting it, leaving you knocked out before you knew what happened. Not too surprising that you'd make your way down here... Given this," Scorpia pauses to point at the engraving he's inspecting, "and what we've just learned from 'mother dearest'. Oh, speaking of, how are you doing?" Scorpia asks.
"I'm fine, thanks for asking... I take it 'that' is to do with us? Or at the very least our father?" Erlöser asks, walking over to Scorpia.
"Well... A bit of both. Though, not quite us. As Luna said before, we aren't the first in the line of Destruction and Redemption. If I'm honest, whatever dragon should be within me... Never made it to me. Should probably chalk that up to me being sent away. And once again I'm left to ask you, are you okay? A lot has been dropped on you as of recent. You are still extremely young." Scorpia states.
"I guess learning that you're the reincarnation of a dragon is kinda cool. A lot has been dropped on me since I awoke as a Kansen... I learnt about our entire species, what we are and what we can do... I learnt my dad, our dad, was a SSS+ rank from Larvali... I've had to fight in underground arena matches when I previously didn't even know nor want to fight. Then I gained a marefriend who, if I'm honest is pushy as fuck... I do like certain things about her, but I just feel that she isn't the one for me. As much as I want to though, I don't want to hurt her... Sucking reason that it is... I know she'll likely get hurt a lot more if I stay with her..." Erlöser takes a deep breath. "Other than that... I don't know, learning I actually have a living mother is nice. The fact it's one of the two princesses is kinda a nice bonus. You realise that makes us both princes, right?" Erlöser states pointing between them both with a slight smile.
"If I'm honest... I don't really care for being a prince. A simple life is nicer in my opinion... Not sure it's an option now, though... Then again, with these abilities it never has been." Scorpia comments.
"Well, it hardly makes much difference currently. I don't mind a simple life, but that place... I'd love to be set up in there. I know it sounded like I was being tortured and truth be told it was very painful to begin with, but it was so badly worth it. Plus that massage pony was very cute." Erlöser states, sitting down on a nearby fallen piece of square pillar.
"I don't know. I just prefer a simple life. Possibly because it's something I never really got to have. Lately... I think I've come as close as I can, and believe me, my life back home is not even close to a simple one." Scorpia states with a slight sigh.
"Makes sense. My life at the video game store is simple enough and I've been saving up for a place of my own... I don't know, I like it there if nothing else. so what happens now? Like between us and stuff? We are brothers and, if I'm honest, I'm quite happy to have a sibling... Despite, however, how much older you are than me, which by what you were saying back in the government building... It's a damn lot." Erlöser asks, stretching slightly.
"That's an understatement. According to Luna, I should be four years older than you. Whoever sent me, sent me millennia back." Scorpia states, folding his arms.
"That would be my fault..." A voice states from behind a pillar. Dr. Sinclair rubs the back of his neck. "Firstly, allow me to apologise for how I got you both down here. I expected Zerstörung to land safely, but didn't quite expect you to fall flat on your ass, Erlöser." Dr. Sinclair begins walking towards them.
"So you're also responsible for Scorpia not having his dragon?" Erlöser asks raising an eyebrow.
"Well, yes. It was never part of the plan, but steps had to be taken. Such a powerful dragon could not be allowed to exist in another timeline where one might already exist. Thus I had to remove it in order to allow you to be sent... The coordinates were fine, I checked them myself... However, a small scuffle with my assistants lead to sudden changes. One of them worked for Queen Chrysalis and thus interrupted the process. Alas, the fault is still mine. Your mother has made that fact painfully clear to me..." Dr. Sinclair states rolling up his right sleeve.
Dr. Sinclair looks to his right forearm which is greatly scarred and wounded. He continues walking until he is inches away from the pair and stands in between them.
"I'd like to say that she was taught better than that, but I suppose here she's not the filly I raised. Our relationship seems to be quite the opposite. So... I assume you're here to fix at least part of your mistake?" Scorpia asks, raising an eyebrow.
"You could say that... This might hurt a little or a lot..." Dr. Sinclair states cracking his neck.
"Oh shit... Please not again..." Erlöser states, his ears going flat against his head.
Dr. Sinclair holds out his arms to make thousand of thin blood red strings spring forth from his arms all the way up to his back. The thin strings suddenly grab Erlöser and Scorpia hard, digging into their skin and entering their bloodstream. Without a word Erlöser begins screaming as his blood heats up and a large amount of blood starts to be forced out of his back attached to the blood strings and Erlöser. The blood dragon roars, shaking the ruins and making some rubble fall from the ceiling. The roars become louder as Dr. Sinclair adds more strings to the both of them and doubles his efforts making sweat form on his forehead. Slowly the blood dragon begins to be split and what's left behind Erlöser is a different blood dragon in blue. The strings bring the separated blood over to behind Scorpia, but it's a much darker blood red. As more blood is split between them, more strings are attached to the pair and more strain is put on Dr. Sinclair. Suddenly without warning the blood splits with sincere ease and two very different designs of dragon now float behind the pair. Erlöser has a light blue blood dragon behind him that has a slight soft yet frightful design. Meanwhile, behind Scorpia is a very fierce looking vicious dark blood dragon. Manipulating the strings attached to the pair Dr. Sinclair makes both dragons painfully descend into their proper host. After about several minutes of spine chilling screams from Erlöser both dragons are forced back into both of them and all the strings are removed letting the pair fall to the floor with their eyes closed.
"There... Mistake fixed... I am not fucking doing that again, everything should be in order. I'm going home for a nice massage and a soak..." Dr. Sinclair states, panting heavily.
Erlöser stirs and holds his head as he rolls around groaning. "Ugh... Brother? You alright? I feel like the voice is gone from my head... Wait a second, that was fucking you?"
"How the hell should I know? I just got here and haven't had my dragon for quite a long time." Scorpia states, as seven years worth of memoires flood into his mind.
"Well, if you're being technical... You are the dragons. Never mind having them, 'you are them'. The whatever generation of the elder blood dragons of destruction and redemption... There should be little patches from your past lives somewhere in your blood. Needless to say you will also have all the memoires of what you saw while your draconic blood form was inside Erlöser." Dr. Sinclair explains, getting his breath back.
"So it was you! God damn your dragon was so bloody annoying, you were so annoying inside my head..." Erlöser states holding his head as he gets to his knees.
Scorpia glances at Erlöser before looking to Sinclair. "So... What exactly happened down in Ponyville? I assume whatever happened there had something to do with me being sent away..."
"You couldn't be further from the truth. What happened in this town and what happened above in the castle are two very different events. Ponyville was decimated when you were still here, dear boy. The town was peaceful enough during the calm period before the war... It was one report that came from a Government official that caused all ten thousand five hundred and fifty two resident ponies to be slaughtered in the most brutal massacre known in that year. There were suspected Kansen hiding in the town which is part of the truth. Ponyville was a hub for normal and Kansen living conditions... It was warm and comfortable. Then we got involved because of the report and every resident was either killed, reduced to goo or brutally dismembered in the crossfire between the Kansen and Government. It was several months if not a year later you were transported away... That is the truth about Ponyville, the horrible secret behind one pony's selfish greed and lust for position and power..." Dr. Sinclair explains, folding his arms behind his back.
"That sounds disgusting... I can't believe that shit all happened because of one little shit. Ugh, my damn head..." Erlöser sits on the back of his legs and catches his breath.
"Okay... so... why exactly was I sent away then?" Scorpia asks, slowly getting up and leaning against the wall.
"You were sent away in order to protect you and your brother. You had started to show signs of developing your blood ability and thus might have caused trouble if spotted by a normal pony or government soldier not in on the royal family's secret. It was my choice to put your dragon into Erlöser and seal his powers with a blood lock that'd only release upon consumption of a rank A or higher Kansen's blood. Unfortunately, thanks to the queen's interference... you ended up years away from the intended time and countless timelines from home... If anypony is to blame for how long you spent away from us, it is me. Your mother only had her son's safety in mind, but thanks to interfering factors... She is not to blame for what happened to you, Zerstörung. If anything blame me and Queen Chrysalis, but there is no need to blame Princess Luna." Dr. Sinclair explains and bows slightly to apologise.
"She is the Princess of the Night. She wasn't Nightmare Moon. She wasn't killing anypony. Everypony looks up to her. You had no handle on something you knew nothing of. Chrysalis... I'm not surprised about her. Luna, on the other hand... She's the ruler of Equestria, along with Celestia. If she'd just come out as what she is maybe ponies would finally realise the real problem isn't Kansen in general, but rather Chrysalis and her lackeys. Maybe they'd remember when things were fine between Kansen and non..." Scorpia comments getting his breath back.
"She wishes it was so easy... Perhaps if certain events did not happen then that might be possible. However, with how the current war is going it's difficult to preform that action now. Princess Luna is afraid to put her sister into a position that would lead to her having to be publicly executed. The end of this war will not be pleasant, but if you think you have some ideas... I'm sure Princess Luna or your little good group could use it. Queen Chrysalis will not stop till every normal pony is dead at her hooves and all the Kansen who resist her regime are also dead..." Dr. Sinclair states , before walking away and looking up.
"This shit is so messed up... There must be something that can be done..." Erlöser muses.
"Fight. Win. Survive. That is the only way currently. If you want to have any chance at hurting those who deserve it, I suggest you train more." Dr. Sinclair explains before leaving the large room.
"Well, this escalated quickly... What do you think we should do now? This shit is a bit heavy for me to think on alone." Erlöser states, looking at Scorpia.
"Well, first off, ignore him. Nopony deserves to be hurt. I don't care what they did. Second off... We train. Or, at the very least, I do. Nopony deserves to be hurt, but sometimes it can't be helped." Scorpia states in reply.
"Nopony deserves it, but many are happy to do it... Normals and Kansen alike. I don't know what to think about most things now. Anything I knew before going to that building has been mostly crushed and replaced by what I do know now... Kinda makes me wonder which I prefer... That Pegasus wandering the streets aimlessly looking to die or this Pegasus I've become." Erlöser sighs deeply as he stares at his hand.
"May not help you any, but I know which life of mine I prefer... Sadly, one of them can't just fade." Scorpia comments.
"I guess dying without knowing would have been the most easy route... Alas, I'm here now. No matter what way you look at it I'm stuck here, no point in denying it now." Erlöser stretches slightly.
"As am I for now. Simply touched a statue of our apparent father, and fell from the sky in a seemingly foreign world. If there were ever a time that I was any more lost than I am now... I don't remember it." Scorpia states looking up.
"That makes two of us... For the lost part anyway, I wasn't the one in the town square nude. You will never live that down. What do we do about this training thing?" Erlöser asks, playing with his choker.
Scorpia grits his teeth before speaking. "Well, sorry that I come from a world of quadrupeds. The world I know, clothes are more of a thing for special events... Or socialites. Whichever. Not commonplace... And not necessary. As for the training... I would say to ask Larvali, but are you even near his level yet?" Scorpia asks, leaning against the carving wall.
"I'm not sure... I think Fluttershy last said I'm up to an A rank, but with our dragons now sorted I'm not so sure what rank I am." Erlöser muses frustrated.
"So, no... We'll have to work on that. Death is bound to come. We need to keep you alive, at the very least." Scorpia replies with a sigh.
"I suppose... I'm not gonna have to fight random Kansen again, am I?" Erlöser asks, with a heavy sigh.
"I don't know any random Kansen. If we want to get you stronger, we need to have you fight somepony that is several ranks higher than you. You supposedly haven't breached S yet, and you had me helping you. So, you might actually be even weaker than before. I don't know. You might have better control. I don't know. You won't be fighting random Kansen, though. You'll be fighting me. At least that way you might get some proper training... And I was already helping you before. Might as well continue now that I can do so in my own body."
"Oh yeah, speaking of which I need to have several words with you about the shit that went on while we shared a body... Are you sure me fighting you is a good idea? I'm likely to spend more time getting intimate with the ground than training..." Erlöser states, looking doubtful.
"I'm not going to actually fight until you can deal any real damage, so don't worry about 'getting intimate with the ground.' At least... Not to start off." Scorpia replies.
"Sounds wonderful... Well, we're not going back to town for a few days are we..?" Erlöser asks, moving into the centre of the large chamber.
"That's up to you. I'd personally like some time in a familiar area." Scorpia states, gesturing at the surrounding walls before sitting down. "I'll be back eventually, I'm sure. For now though... I just learned that the fillies I raised are actually my mother and aunt... I'm staying here to think for a few days, at least..."
Erlöser looks a little confused. "Are we not training now? I thought that's what we were going to do..?"
"Oh? I mean, I guess. That should keep my mind at least somewhat occupied. Come at me then." Scorpia replies, remaining in his spot on the floor.
Erlöser groans slightly, now mentally slapping himself. "This is gonna go so badly..."
Author's Note
Chapter is finally done! Looks like Scorpia and Erlöser will train together if you could even call it that. The next few chapters will be very fun and emotion filled to a point. We look forward to seeing what you think of them when they arrive. This chapter release is a little off with my month plan. However, there is a debate about my release schedule if I should continue as is given each major fic a month in turn or continue with one till it finishes. Your comments would be greatly appreciated.
Twilight sits on the side of the operating table in Sinclair's laboratory with her head in her hands. Hémolyse stands in front of her and slowly lifts her head so their eyes meet.
"To answer your more simple questions first... Yes, Princess Luna is indeed a Kansen. The colt you saw with her is her son and your mentor, Princess Celestia, is not a Kansen. If you would like to begin your more complicated questions." Hémolyse asks, stroking Twilight's hair gently.
"Why..? Why did Princess Celestia wish to kill me herself?" Twilight asks, nearly tearing up.
"By learning that Princess Luna is a Kansen, you learned the royal family's well kept dark secret. You also learnt about and tried to strike down one of her sons. I understand the surveillance pictures put Erlöser in that alleyway, however, it was an anonymous tip that put both Sunset Shimmer and Spike in that alleyway, chasing that Kansen. They and Erlöser were never supposed to run into each other." Hémolyse explains.
"B-but it shows him ripping them apart? Am I supposed to believe he lost control?" Twilight protests.
"Yes, that is exactly what you are supposed to believe. Because that is what happened... It is our understanding that another entity is responsible for his bloody rampage. You'll be more interested in the voice belonging to the 'anonymous' tipper." Hémolyse explains before holding up a recording device and pressing play.
"I'd like to report sightings of a rogue Kansen in the alleyway nearby 'Sanran Buraddo' ~" The recording ends.
"T-that sounded like..." Twilight begins.
"The Kansen designated The Jester a.k.a Verdammnis, daughter of Queen Chrysalis. It would seem she has taken more from you than just your lover..." Hémolyse states.
"So Verdammnis is the cause of all this grief..?" Twilight asks herself as she blinks a few times.
"So it would seem... I asked Princess Luna to allow me to handle this situation. I love you, that much is certain. However, I made an oath to the princess... Which is why you're here. I have something to tell you. As I'm sure you're aware, most if not all of the Pathogen agents have Kansen blood fused with their own to enable them to use the same abilities. I have Princess Luna's blood in me, in order for you to fully understand what is at stake. You must now pick whose Kansen blood you wish to have infused with your own. By now we have quite the collection of Kansen blood for you to pick from. You can, of course, decline this transaction. Should you understand your position and not pursue Erlöser, Princess Luna should allow us both to continue as normal." Hémolyse explains.
"Either way nothing can go back to normal... I wont leave you though. I see little point in leaving the mare who is literally keeping me sane in this whole backward fucked up situation..." Twilight smiles meekly.
"I'm very happy to hear that. What about the blood offer?" Hémolyse asks, nuzzling Twilight's cheek gently.
"Hmm what have you got?" Twilight asks, looking over at the vials of blood on the rack.
"The Blood Knight, Turn Table, Back Beat, The Jester-" Hémolyse is stopped by Twilight.
"That last one... The Jester's blood will do... I want to kill that mare painfully. What better way than with her own abilities?" Twilight exclaims.
"So long as you're sure... Sinclair should be back in a while.." Hémolyse looks uneasy.
"Perhaps we could do something in the meantime? I mean he is bound to be countless hours so we might be able to have some fun? I know it's weird wanting to do it in a lab, but what is the most harm we could come to? Being nearly marked for death by your mentor isn't an average event you know..." Twilight states, pulling Hémolyse to her.
"Against my better judgement, I suppose we could if he will be that long." Hémolyse kisses Twilight deeply.
Princess Luna sighs deeply as she pours herself a glass of blood-whiskey before leaning back in her seat on the sofa.
"My sons are back... It's something amongst the recent string of Pathogen deaths. However, I get the depressing feeling these next couple of weeks will be a paperwork nightmare..." Princess Luna muses as she takes a sip of her whiskey.
"You always have a depressing feeling, dear sister." Princess Celestia walks around the sofa and sits on the opposite sofa.
"I'm normally correct in my depressing feelings... I just wish their father was here to see them... You know I miss him, Tia." Princess Luna state, putting her glass down onto the coffee table.
Princess Celestia crosses her legs and sighs deeply. "I know... I'm hoping this time you are wrong. Do you remember that secret project a while back with that... 'Special test subject'?"
Princess Luna raises an eyebrow. "That unique case where instead of banishing him to oblivion, we were able to reform him by allowing them to participate in a mixed Kansen blood experiment. I believe it was using the blood from 'Blood Knight' and 'Turn Table'."
"Yes, well, it seems he has awoken. Cadence and Shining are currently unsure 'what' the reason is, but he appears to have retained his sanity despite the experiment." Princess Celestia states.
"Well, at least there is one silver lining through recent events. Speaking of the experiment, your faithful student should be undergoing hers very soon." Princess Luna comments, swirling her whiskey around in the glass.
"I still think that putting her through the Kansen experiment is a bit harsh..." Princess Celestia folds her arms.
"Oh? And I suppose striking her down with your sabre was a much favoured response?" Princess Luna comments, putting her glass down.
"That was a rushed response... Still, I hope she comes out okay." Princess Celestia closes her eyes.
"I'm sure she wont be anymore broken then she already is. Besides, she has my guard captain with her so I'm sure she will be fine." Princess Luna stretches before standing up.
"Where are you off to now?" Princess Celestia asks, opening her eyes upon hearing Princess Luna move.
"Just for a walk. I'll see you later, Tia." Princess Luna leaves the room.
Hémolyse tightens her coat and holsters her katana before turning back to an already dressed Twilight.
"That was certainly an interesting experience, not to say it was bad, just interesting." Hémolyse states, smiling at Twilight.
"It was definitely different than I had imagined, but still fun." Twilight kisses Hémolyse gently.
"Well, I hope you enjoyed your little 'moment' with each other. Celestia forbid how you two thought I wouldn't notice. The unique odour of 'sex' nearly knocked me out as I walked in. I wont argue against your actions as this might be the very last time dear Twilight would have to indulge in such an act." Dr. Sinclair walks into the lab and over to his work station.
"I know the risks of this experiment... However, despite my romantic interests, I want this... There are Kansen out there I cannot handle with just my magic. I need to be on the same level as the other Pathogen members if I want to avoid being a burden on the field." Twilight states with confidence.
"Hmm given your choice in blood this will be very interesting. Thanks to the theatre encounter and the minimal damage she sustained while fleeing from our armoured response team. We finally have enough of her blood to use. Needless to say, I'm quite excited at the prospect of a Pathogen member using her blood and living." Dr. Sinclair prepares a syringe.
"I shall leave you to your work... Be careful, Twilight. I promise you I will be here for you after I've finished my guard duty for Princess Luna." Hémolyse states, before leaving the lab.
"Well, at the theatre Trixie had some of Verdammnis' blood put into her, but she didn't make it... She almost did. However, Spitfire, Fleetfoot and Lightning Dust all survived her blood ritual." Twilight informs Dr. Sinclair.
"Really? That is quite fascinating. Although the low survival rate doesn't surprise me given the mare's sanity." Dr. Sinclair states, walking over to the table and laying down Twilight.
"What does her sanity have to do with her blood?" Twilight asks, laying down in compliance.
Dr. Sinclair applies the heavy straps to Twilight's wrists, ankles, midsection and neck. "Well, her sanity is pretty much in her blood. It's no secret she is an absolute psycho. This is not only true for her killing methods, but also her mental state. From our records we know she snapped and became a SSS+ at the age of five when in kindergarten. The report states that another pony's foal slapped Verdammnis. She then proceeded to cackle hysterically before returning the slap and subsequently snapping the foals neck in the process. Needless to say, she disappeared from any records before re-appearing again as The Jester."
"Oh... Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all... Perhaps I can change-" Twilight begins, but stops as Dr. Sinclair jabs Twilight's arm with the needle.
"Nope. Now I do hope this will be as entertaining as I imagine it to be. In my many many years of applying my research to you pony folk, I've yet to see the effects a bat shit insane Kansen's blood would affect a perfectly healthy normal pony. You could either die, die horribly, live and then die like Trixie... Hmm perhaps too soon. Or you could live and not see any effects until later on. The mass of unknown variables is quite exciting." Dr. Sinclair states, before holding down Twilight with many blood tentacles.
Twilight blinks many times as her vision is blurred by countless blurry streaks of green and red. Looking over at Dr. Sinclair his form morphs and shifts to take on the appearance of Verdammnis. Twilight begins to violently struggle against her binding straps.
"Hmm increased aggression... I wonder if she is seeing stuff..?" Dr. Sinclair begins as he pokes Twilight's cheek.
Twilight attempts to bite his finger as he recoils. "Verdammnis!"
"Oh yeah, she is tripping balls... maybe a heavy does of sedative will help resolve this situation." Dr. Sinclair mumbles as he reaches a tentacle over to his work station and produces a full syringe of sedative.
Stabbing the needle in her chest and quickly discarding it as Twilight becomes even more aggressive against her bindings.
"Oh fuck, that did not do what I expected..." Dr. Sinclair checks the bottle he drew from. The label says 'adrenaline not sedative'. "Ah... That will explain a lot..."
Twilight breaks her left side binding and Dr. Sinclair adds loads of tentacles to keep her wrist secured.
"Perhaps my curiosity isn't so good here..." Dr. Sinclair swallows hard as Twilight breaks her other wrist binding.
Twilight can begin to feel a thousand tiny needles clawing at her mind continuously. She struggles hard against Dr. Sinclair and her remaining bindings. Her vision turns a sickly green as memories of Trixie and Verdammnis flash and mix in her mind, causing her more pain.
"Locking the door would be a good idea..." Dr. Sinclair muses to himself as he jabs a clearly labelled 'PANIC' button above his work station which locks the lab door before slamming a 5' thick reinforced Kansen proof metal door in front of it.
Author's Note
Another chapter finally here. The next chapter hopefully won't be far behind and I hope you all continue to enjoy the direction this story is taking and it's development.
Flutterbat lays a briefcase bearing her cutie mark down on a wooden crate. She flips the clips which hold the briefcase shut and opens it to reveal her disassembled signature sniper rifle. Looking out of the nearby window she can see the heavily fortified government snow fortress which is situated just outside the Crystal Empire military zone. Flutterbat opens another, smaller case which holds a screen and dial pad. After dialling a number she begins to assemble her sniper rifle while pulling up a chair to sit down on. Several seconds pass before a changeling answers the call.
"Lady Flutterbat, it's been a while. What brings you to call me so suddenly given how we left off?" The changeling asks, raising an eyebrow.
"I would like you to come back and help the other three do a reconnaissance mission in Manehatten. Would you come back for them?" Flutterbat asks as she slides some components into place.
"Do you expect something bad to happen?" The changeling asks, folding his arms.
"I always expect the worst... However, I fear this time at this stage. None of us are without roles to play, Nigel. After what I'm about to do, this might be the last time we talk... I know in the past I've been the biggest bitch to you, the others and most of those around me. Then I met Erlöser and everything changed... I tried to change, to be better for him. I guess I didn't do so well as I just pushed him into the arena and made him fight. I forced him to be with me so I could retain some sense of sanity." Flutterbat adds her scope and ammo mag to the sniper rifle.
"You sound like a mare about to go to her death... You promised you would never attempt that hit without us, that it was too dangerous for one pony to take on alone. My lady you swore-" Nigel is cut off by Flutterbat.
"I know what I promised and I'm afraid I cannot keep it, we are losing this war and I'm left with no other choice. Go to Manehatten, aid your brothers... Maybe in another life we will meet again and I wont be such a bitch. Goodbye Nigel..." Flutterbat hangs up on Nigel.
Sighing deeply Flutterbat begins to slowly strip and lay her clothes onto the nearby crate before opening up a bag and laying out the components for a dull yellow Gothic styled dress that has black trim. Sitting down naked on the chair Flutterbat pulls up recording software on the small case before leaning back in the chair and taking a deep breath, she then sets it to record.
"Erlöser... By now you'll notice I'm not around the shop or at the arena. I must also apologise for my naked presence, but I wanted to see you off as myself..." Flutterbat morphs her form back into that of the normal Fluttershy. "I guess you never really got to know the mare beneath the bat... My name is Fluttershy and I used to live in Ponyville before the massacre. Moving to Canterlot I became the head of the changelings you met before who left Queen Chrysalis' army. I couldn't tell you when and where I became Flutterbat, but I know the night I met you I regained a slither of the mare I used to be. I'm just sorry I fucked up so badly... Pushing you over and over again into that forsaken arena. Even now I wish I could pack up and come home to wait for you, maybe hope that I could spend more time with you and make things right." Fluttershy begins as she starts to slide on her tights. "I'm not coming home though... I'm going to assassinate an absolute bastard who deserves nothing more then a blood bullet between the eyes. I don't want you to cry for me, nor do I want you to mourn for me. Just live your life and don't make the same mistakes I did, I wish you luck... You can consider this my official notice, you're dumped Erlöser. I loved you a lot... Farewell, my savoir." Fluttershy ends her recording and sends it to Erlöser's email address before shutting off and closing the case.
Fluttershy sighs deeply as she stands up and slides her dress over her head before zipping up the back and adjusting it so it's comfortable. She then moves to her sniper rifle and completes its assembly. Fluttershy flips out a pocket knife and cuts her upper arm to attach a string of animated blood to the chamber of her bolt action mechanism. With her free hand she gets her phone out of her pocket and takes a picture of herself as Fluttershy in all her gear and outfit. After sending the picture to Erlöser she places her phone down and morphs back into Flutterbat before shooting her phone. Once she ensures the Sim card is destroyed Flutterbat walks over to the window and looks out at the snow fortress one last time before taking a run up and bursting out of the window. As she descends down the watchtower she was in, Flutterbat spreads her wings and begins to fly towards the fortress. As if on cue a massive snow storm rolls in covering her infiltration.
Erlöser sits down against a collapsed pillar, panting heavily as he looks up at Scorpia who is looking at the carving wall.
"So... I gather you remember everything now? You seem awfully attracted to that carving wall." Erlöser asks as he slows down his breathing.
"It all came back fairly quickly once Sinclair made right one of his wrongs. It's why I had sat down to think before we started your training." Scorpia replies, turning away from the carving.
"What did you think about?" Erlöser asks, wiping his forehead.
"Still thinking. Haven't stopped. Trying to figure out how I feel about everything..." Scorpia replies.
"That's the most vague answer anypony has ever given me... Care to give any insight into that mind of yours, brother? Granted most of you has been... 'In me', for about twelve years now... That damn science guy and his lame ass blood stringy things... That shit hurt, I don't know about you..." Erlöser states. flinching as he remembers the pain of the event... Twice.
"I'm a few millennia old, and I'm not speaking of the dragon... I'm not speaking of Zerstörung. I'm speaking of Scorpia. Who I am now. Who I became. I was sent back to a time before Equestria was Equestria. I was raised by an entirely different mare. I watched my apparent mother and aunt grow from a young filly to a fine mare. I lived alongside a bloodline that came to an end before my eyes, and I was unable to do a thing to stop it. I watched chaos unravel. I had those I love turn on me. I've seen Luna in her darkest time. Recently, I fell in love. Now, I'm here. My 'true' home. I remember those seven short years. I remember our mother. I remember our aunt." Scorpia pauses and walks back over to the carving, placing his hand on it. "I remember our father. I remember playing with my baby brother. I remember how nice Ivory was back then. I remember my original life. I remember what sent me back so far... it's the blurriest part... but I do at least remember the face of that changeling. So, yeah, I'm trying to figure out how I feel about everything..." Scorpia explains, turning back to Erlöser and sighing deeply.
"I vaguely remember the four years I spent with my real family... I envy you in a sense, you can remember our father much more clearly than I can. You can remember what Hémolyse was like before... Well, whatever she did to be how she is now. You can actually remember being cared for by our mother... I have hazy parts of that at best. The only clear memories I have of my foalhood is that forsaken orphanage I went to after the incident which saw you transported away and our family essentially broken... I fucking hated that place..." Erlöser sighs, throwing a small piece of broken off pillar at the other side of the room with force making a loud noise as it impacts.
"I can't imagine. I was taken in by another mare in my other home. She's the one who helped me learn how to use my abilities... though she really didn't want to. The very first time I used it frightened her extremely, and not for the reason you might think. She was just fearful for me... I had passed out from blood loss that night... Left a small scar on the left side of her neck... never got over that." Scorpia states.
"Least you had it fairly good... I wanted to bitch slap half the foals in my orphanage... Come to think of it, I might have. Still, I'm sure you have a plethora of tales you could tell. My life if pretty boring in comparison, up until I met Rainbow... Some big ass stallion had decided he was going to kill me and have me for dinner. She comes in and slices off the dudes arm with her hand, after which she plunged up to half her arm into his stomach and ripped out his freaking heart." Erlöser recites the event.
"What a 'great' introduction to your new life... At least your introduction wasn't the near death of your mother." Scorpia replies.
"Touché, However, Rainbow was very cool and she was quite hot... Although she was going to kill me, that is before she stuck her thumb in my mouth to open it. I then tasted her blood and da da da da out pops your blood dragon ass from my back. That hurt..." Erlöser states, looking annoyed at Scorpia.
"Keep in mind that that had nothing to do with me... that was all Sinclair..." Scorpia defends.
"Still hurt... Speaking of, are we going to talk about what happened while you were in my head?" Erlöser folds his arms.
"...When are we talking about here?" Scorpia asks.
"All the time you were in my head... I know you remember..." Erlöser states, narrowing his eyes.
"Well... Which specific time do you want to talk about? You're giving me a very broad range of conversation." Scorpia folds his arms.
"Okay... Let's start with the alleyway when you first talked to me since your dragon awoke inside me." Erlöser stands up to stretch.
"When we tore apart another dragon and a powerful unicorn to save Rainbow's life..? What about it?" Scorpia asks, raising an eyebrow.
"Spike and Sunset Shimmer, as I... recently found out. Why did you rip him in half and did you have to maul her? I'm grateful and happy we saved Rainbow, but..." Erlöser trails off after saying Rainbow's name.
"You allowed the soul of the dragon of destruction to take over your body. I fight very differently. You're lucky that more damage wasn't dealt." Scorpia unfolds his arms.
"I suppose... I didn't know either of them so... Guess I can thank you in a more physical sense now. What about the first time in the arena? When I met Flutterbat for the first time." Erlöser asks.
"If it weren't for the fact that she was plenty stronger than you, I'd ask why you stuck as long as you did. If you're asking why I helped you fight there... for one... you weren't the correct body and had you died, who's telling if Zerstörung would have made it back to me. Aside from that... well... the memories got stuck with the dragon. It knew you as the baby brother." Scorpia replies.
"True enough... What do you mean 'stuck as long as you did?'" Erlöser asks sitting on the fallen pillar behind him.
"The relationship between you and Flutters... It sure as Tartarus wasn't a healthy one. It was pretty one-sided." Scorpia states, leaning against the wall.
"Well... I liked her..." Erlöser weakly replies.
"Keep telling yourself that. She isn't the one you like... she never was. We both know that to be true." Scorpia comments.
"I... I can't argue with that when you have been inside my head... Not that you'd believe my bullshit anyway. Who is it you know I like then?" Erlöser asks, looking at Scorpia with a slight head tilt.
"A mare who's currently got her eyes glued to another. I believe that's mostly your fault. Or, at least, it seems to be how she feels about it." Scorpia remarks.
"Don't you think I know that? It's bad enough I was too weak to do jack shit about my current unhappy 'relationship', but I also went and fucking alienated said mare we are talking about who nearly punched me, had said punch blocked by you... Then not only a day later gets with another mare, her fucking ex no less! I can only think to add it to the list of exceptional fuck ups I seem to be gathering lately..." Erlöser states as he digs his fingers into the pillar, cracking it underneath his hand.
Scorpia takes a few steps forward in order to stand only a couple meters away before replying, "Not like you made much of an effort to leave dear Flutters' side and pursue your love interest. Nor did you even make an effort to see her and have the occasional conversation. You just stayed put, like a good little pet."
Erlöser suddenly slams his fist into Scorpia's face with unforeseen force and frustration making him fly into, and shatter, the pillar opposite to Erlöser.
"Fuck you and fuck Flutterbat!" Erlöser yells with a louder, deeper voice than normal as he pushes off of the pillar into a standing position.
Scorpia picks himself up, grabs a nearby piece of rubble and uses it to open a gash in his hand before grinning. "That's much better, little brother."
Flutterbat moves down the hallway letting out a torrent of cute little sneezes before she stops at a corner to check past it when she finally stops sneezing.
"What the fuck was that? Felt like somepony was having a bitch fest..." Flutterbat shakes her head and peeks around the corner.
Around the corner she can see two Crystal Empire guard ponies a fair distance from each other. With swift unrestricted movement, Flutterbat sprints from her position stabbing the first guard in the neck with a wrist blood blade from under her sleeve. She then takes the guards sword and throws it at the second guard hitting him in the chest as he turns to face her. Moving past them both she rolls behind a balcony pillar before standing up. Looking down past the balcony she can see an orange stallion talking to a higher ranked white stallion.
"I'm to understand that Princess Celestia let things get so bad? Ugh... if only we did what we did at Ponyville this infestation in Canterlot would have never gotten this bad." The white stallion complains.
The orange stallion has a bright orange coat with a sapphire mane and tail that has lighter sapphire streaks within. His eyes are a light blue and he wears gold guard armour.
"Wouldn't it cause more trouble that way, Prince Blueblood, sir?" The stallion asks.
The stallion identified as Prince Blueblood has a pure white coat, a blonde mane and tail with arctic blue eyes.
"Flash Sentry, you fail to see the bigger picture. It won't if we rat them all out... Maybe I should file another false report, seemed to do the trick with Ponyville." Prince Blueblood states with a sigh.
Flutterbat sets up her sniper rifle and aims for Prince Blueblood's head while he talks to Flash Sentry. As she slowly squeezes the trigger Prince Blueblood turns and looks directly up at her before moving Flash Sentry into the path of her bullet upon her pulling the trigger. By this time Prince Blueblood has already moved from Flash Sentry, whom has been hit in the head with the sniper blood bullet. Frustrated, Flutterbat fires five more blood bullets into Flash Sentry to make sure he is dead, but not before Prince Blueblood jumps up onto the walkway with her standing merely inches away.
"Ah, I believe you are the Kansen known as Lady Flutterbat. Hmm I somewhat expected more from one of the most infamous ones..." Prince Blueblood states with a click of his tongue.
Flutterbat grits her teeth as she fires another bullet at Prince Blueblood, but is dodged as he sprints towards her drawing his rapier. Prince Blueblood takes many slash attempts at Flutterbat, but they are all blocked using her sniper rifle. Before long she is forced onto the ground floor where she shot and killed Flash Sentry. Prince Blueblood follows her down to the ground floor and sprints towards her again, making sure she can't get a clear shot off with her sniper rifle using his quick and precise fencing training.
"You don't seem to be preforming too well, 'My Lady'." Prince Blueblood taunts Flutterbat who grits her teeth.
Flutterbat continues trying to land a shot on Prince Blueblood, but fails at every try as he gives her no inch of space to work with. Tired of this cat and mouse game, Prince Blueblood closes in and runs his rapier multiple times through Flutterbat's stomach area and through her heart.
"Oh dear, it seems I slipped a little too much." Prince Blueblood smirks.
Falling to the floor Flutterbat finds herself unable to move as she watches Prince Blueblood clean her blood off his rapier before throwing the handkerchief he used onto her body.
"Such a pathetic use of Kansen life... Guess no fun will be had with a used up little Flutterwhore. I'll leave you to bleed out in peace next to... This equally useless pile of pony excrement." Prince Blueblood begins to walk away from the pair.
Flutterbat finds the last reserves of her strength to make one last blood bullet before moving her sniper rifle into place. Slowly losing her focus, Flutterbat manages to steady her aim at Prince Blueblood's head. With a final slow breath she pulls the trigger making the bullet fly straight to and through Prince Blueblood's head. He stops moving and slowly falls to his knees before falling fully onto the ground, lifeless.
"Eat shit and die you fucking uptight bastard..." Flutterbat lays back on her back and closes her eyes as she can feel her body slowly begin to go cold.
'Sorry I couldn't make it home... Erlöser.' Flutterbat surrenders herself to death and holds her sniper rifle to her body till the life fully drains from her.
Author's Note
Nest chapter finally done. Me and my co-author are very happy to be progressing on this fic at whatever pace we are able to. I hope you enjoyed this chapter and look forward to the next one.
Rainbow Dash downs her blood whiskey and sighs deeply as she slams it down on the counter in front of Vinyl Scratch. The mare in question simply smiles awkwardly as she sips her own blood vodka drink.
"You need to chill, Rainbow... Besides, you're working. It's bad to get pissed when you're the one serving people." Vinyl Scratch sighs.
"I know, I know... It's just so frustrating. It's been about a week now and we have found nothing on where they are fucking holding Berry..." Rainbow Dash slams her fist into the counter.
"Hey, I asked Octy to look into it. She is doing all she can while keeping her job..." Vinyl Scratch states.
"Well, maybe she isn't doing what she says she is! If she was indeed searching or gave a shit, wouldn't she of found her by now?!" Rainbow Dash comments angrily.
"Okay, you fucking take that back! I know she is part of the Government and in Pathogen no less, but at least she gives a fuck!" Vinyl stands up.
"What if she is just undercover to flush some of us out?! What if her sleeping with you is all part of the plan?!" Rainbow states.
Vinyl Scratch grabs Rainbow Dash's collar and is about to hit her in the face when Octavia walks into the bar making the pair separate. Vinyl Scratch sighs and sits back down while Rainbow Dash pours two more drinks.
"Sorry... That was uncalled for..." Rainbow Dash states, holding her arm.
"It's fine... We're under a lot of stress." Vinyl Scratch comments, downing her vodka.
Octavia takes the stool beside Vinyl Scratch and looks confused.
"Did I miss something?" Octavia asks, crossing her arms.
"N-nothing... It's all fine." Vinyl Scratch reassures Octavia.
"Hmm... Okay, then you might want to know about the information I was able to dig up. Shortly after being captured, she was held in Dr. Sinclair's research lab... He is our one and only science expert on Kansen. Once her wounds had healed she was sent away to one of our hideouts in the city. They took her to the 'Frog Hole', a small hideout just underneath the Canterlot bridge over the river between the industrial sector and the shopping sector. The entrance is an old worn metal door with graffiti on it." Octavia informs them both as she sips her drink.
"I know that place! Are you sure?" Rainbow Dash asks.
"Yes, I got the information from Applejack's report file. I hope you appreciate the risk I went through to get this info for you..." Octavia sighs deeply.
"I do, thank you!" Rainbow Dash states before leaping over the bar and sprinting out the door.
"I should go with her-" Vinyl Scratch begins, but stops when Octavia grabs her arm.
"You don't want to... The 'Frog Hole' is also where we do most of our interrogations... So, it's easier to dispose of the bodies down the sewer entrance there than anything else..." Octavia admits closing her eyes.
"What! You're saying that's where the government kills most of us they capture?!" Vinyl Scratch stands up in shock.
"Yes... Apart from Discords personal hideout, that's the only one... I hope you understand why I keep government secrets from you. I can't be found out... I'll be killed for treason or worse..." Octavia downs her drink and looks at Vinyl Scratch.
"I-I know... I understand the risk you take, it's okay." Vinyl Scratch hugs Octavia.
"Will she understand that..?" Octavia asks Vinyl Scratch, but is met with silence as she is held closer.
Maud slowly opens her eyes and looks up at the single light above her which illuminates just the area around the chair she sits in. All around the rest of the room is simply darkness.
"You'll have to forgive the rather cliché' environment, but I have a certain love for the classics." Discord's voice hisses throughout the room.
Discord comes into view behind Maud and places his hands on her shoulders.
"Daddy, must we do it in such a dark room?" Screwball is heard asking somewhere in the darkness.
"I know you're a little young, but you can at least appropriate the sense of atmosphere... Now, if you simply tell us where you were going, I might let you go." Discord brings his head round to look at Maud.
"My resolve is like a rock, it won't be moved." Maud states in defiance.
"I see, such a shame... Screwball!" Discord yells as he stands up and begins to walk in front of her.
As Discord is walking around to the front of Maud, Screwball's signature blood clad ball comes out of the darkness and smashes into Maud's stomach. The resulting blow makes Maud cough up blood onto the floor.
"Do you know what I am called among the Pathogen members?" Discord leans down in front of Maud.
"The Steel Umbrella..." Maud mutters.
"Correct, I'm glad to at least see you rebellious Kansen still pay attention. If you know my name, you know my reputation and why I have my own interrogation hideout. Now, let's try this again... What was the package?" Discord asks.
"Like. A. Rock..." Maud states again, this time sounding each word.
"You Kansen are just so... Ugh, fine... Screwball!" Discord yells again as he gets a small rock out of his coat pocket and places it on the ground in front of Maud.
"Boulder." Maud struggles in her chair, but is held in place by Discord.
Screwball's blood ball comes out of the shadows again and this time smashes down on top of the rock, crushing it into pieces. Screwball adds further insult as she uses her ball to grind it into dust.
"Oh, I'm sorry... Did that rock mean something to you? It was in your possessions along with this rock pouch." Discord pulls out a rock pouch.
"..." Maud remained silent, not uttering a single word.
Discord throws the pouch on top of the dust and sets it alight, watching it slowly burn.
"I tried to be reasonable... Gave you a choice, not that I'd of kept my end of the deal, but... You have been unmasked. We know who you are... Maud Pie." Discord states, placing his hands behind his back and sighing deeply.
"No..." Maud coughs as she realises what Discord is implying.
"They gave birth to Kansen, it's reasonable enough to assume they are Kansen themselves. Thus making them enemies of the crown. Now, I could go ahead and use my handy cell phone here to call in the strike team that sits outside your family's rock farm right now... Or you can tell me what the package was and they live." Discord offers as he flips out his cell phone.
"It was a bomb... A mixed bomb composing of multiple different explosive elements such as Gryphon gunpowder and Equestrian nitrate. We were on our way to pick it up from Sugarcube corner... It's already gone. If we didn't complete our delivery, somepony else did..." Maud hangs her head in defeat.
"That's more like it. Was that so hard?" Discord sighs and dials a number. "Cleanse the farm..." Discord hangs up the phone and puts it in his pocket.
"You said-" Maud is hit in the stomach by Screwball's fist to make her stop talking.
"I did say I'd not keep my end of the deal, but you didn't pay much attention to that part. Screwball, would you be so kind as to deal with this Kansen trash and I'll go fetch us some lunch." Discord states before leaving the room.
"We are going to have so much fun!" Screwball fully comes out of the shadows and looms over Maud with a wide sinister grin on her muzzle.
Rainbow Dash is running down the street now wearing her regular tracksuit jacket, tank top and shorts as she heads towards the Canterlot bridge which leads to the industrial sector. Rainbow Dash's face is covered in sweat and anger as she sprints with all her might to make it in time. As she comes up on the bridge Rainbow Dash diverts to the right side staircase which leads down to the platform next to the river. She jumps on the rail and slides halfway down it before falling off and rolling the rest of the way. Landing in a heap, Rainbow Dash looked up to see the same metal door Octavia had described in her information. Finding new strength and rage she sprinted up from her position and rushed towards her goal. Upon reaching the door Rainbow Dash jumps up and power kicks it off the hinges and onto the Earth Pony government agent who was just about to leave. Glancing up she can see two surprised Pegasus government agents who start to pull out pistols on her. Rainbow Dash runs up to the first agent, knocking the gun from his hand while applying a grip to his throat. Using her leg she kicked the other agents gun from his hand and used harder kicks on his body to bring him to his knees. Rainbow Dash then uses multiple kicks to smash his head against the wall till it was covered in blood and the agent no longer moving. Eventually she strangles the agent in her grip and snaps his neck to make sure he died. Letting him fall down Rainbow Dash sprinted down the dirty hallway till she came to a T-shaped intersection with a door straight in front of her. Two more agents, this time female, came out of either side of the intersection. They sprinted, guns drawn at Rainbow Dash who simply dived into the left side agent getting her to the ground. She then elbowed the mare in the face and used her gun to shoot the right side agent multiple times. As the agent hit the ground another round was used to kill the agent underneath Rainbow Dash.
"Hold on Berry..." Rainbow Dash mutters as she quickly gets up and sprints towards the door.
As she ploughed through the door, Rainbow Dash could see that the entire room was set up for torture, with a table littered with used weapons and devices. A small surgical tray sat on a stand near an alcove which held a chair within. Rainbow Dash's eyes widened as upon the chair she saw the broken, bloody remains of Berry Punch in what was left of the outfit she last saw her in.
"Berry!" Rainbow Dash screams as she runs to Berry.
Using her pocket knife to cut the ropes holding Berry Punch to the chair, Rainbow Dash lowers her to the ground so she can cradle her softly. Unable to hold back any longer, Rainbow Dash begins to tear up and cry at the sight before her.
"Come on Berry! This isn't you, this isn't the end of Raspberry Rumble!" Rainbow Dash screams as she shakes Berry Punch.
The mare in her arms slowly opens her eyes weakly before cracking a small smile upon seeing Rainbow Dash.
"Dashie... You came after all... I wasn't... I wasn't sure if... You'd make it in time..." Berry Punch states, grunting in pain.
"You'll be okay! This isn't the end, it can't be!" Rainbow Dash holds Berry Punch's hand tightly.
"I didn't tell them... I didn't... *cough* Utter a single word... I *cough* stayed strong... For everypony..." Berry Punch states between violent coughs.
"You did amazing, Berry... Just hang on, I'll call Larvali. He will fix everything, he'll get you help... He... He'll..." Rainbow Dash states as she pulls out her phone and shakily begins to dial Larvali's number.
Berry Punch reaches up and holds Rainbow Dash's hand, stopping her from finishing the dialling. Looking down through misty eyes, Rainbow Dash can see Berry Punch shake her head slowly before tearing up herself.
"It's too late... We both know that... I'm... I'm sorry, Dashie... I wasn't strong enough... I couldn't... Protect you." Berry Punch coughs again this time bringing up blood.
"No, you did protect me. You fought for me until the end. Don't you dare think any different!" Rainbow Dash states, placing her forehead on Berry Punch's.
"I'm happy... Happy I was able... To get a second... Chance with you... I'm happy that my last moments... Were spent... In your arms... I... I love you... Dashie." Berry Punch states struggling to give Rainbow Dash a warm smile.
"I love you too, Berry..." Rainbow Dash states in reply before kissing Berry Punch softly.
When Rainbow Dash let's go of their kiss she can see that Berry Punch is no longer moving and the light has left her eyes. As the tears in Rainbow Dash's eyes get more intense she closes Berry Punch's eyes and begins to cry uncontrollably. As she slips further and further into the despair of the moment all she can do is hold onto the body of her marefriend and cry till she can't anymore.
Author's Note
This has been by far the hardest chapter for me to write and I've been putting it off so much for this exact reason. I don't normally kill off meaningful characters in the stories I used to write before fan fic. If I did I'd just bring them back, but... If watching films and playing games has taught me anything it's... That if you give a character a meaningful death they are somehow remembered more in the story for the deeds they did and what they meant to the other characters before they died. Berry punch in this specific fic ran a bar which catered for Kansen in need. She was not only good friends with Erlöser, but gave him his first blood-alcohol mix. She was very close with the mask lady Rarity and both an ex/current marefriend to Rainbow Dash. During this chapter I tried to pour everything I felt into that final emotional scene combined with the music that inspired it. I really hope you all felt exactly the level of pain and emotion I did when writing it and that you look forward to more of 'The Legacy of Blood' in the future. Thank you for reading.
The Nightmare in Manehattan
Larvali sits in the middle seat of the sofa as he rubs his forehead. "So, we still have no idea where he is?" Larvali opens his eyes and looks at Vinyl Scratch, who is leaning against the door frame.
"I'm saying he went into the government building to find Scorpia and hasn't been seen since... I even asked our resident sources and turned up nothing." Vinyl Scratch informs Larvali as she adjusts her shades.
"That's just perfect... Those two... Thank you, Vinyl... You should get back to work now. How is Rainbow?" Larvali asks, standing up.
"She is about as torn up as the last twenty times you have asked me... She'll heal... Just might take a bit, all things considered." Vinyl Scratch comments before sighing deeply.Vinyl Scratch leaves the room and shuts the door before Larvali sighs and rubs his forehead again.
"Out of all of the Kansen, that could have disappeared it fucking had to be those two... Maybe there will be something on TV that will cheer up this horrible situation." Larvali picks up the TV remote and begins flicking through channels.
After flicking through several channels he turns the TV off and throws the remote onto the sofa. "Not a damn thing... Ugh, how did it even get this bad?" Larvali's thoughts are interrupted by a loud crash from downstairs.
Several seconds pass before Vinyl Scratch bursts back into the room and scurries for the TV remote, her shades fallen onto the floor in her panic.
"What the fu-" Larvali is cut short by Vinyl Scratch.
"You would not believe the fucking news right now!" Vinyl Scratch switches to the news channel which shows a helicopter flying over a burning quarter in Manehattan.
"Which Kansen would be crazy enough to provoke a wide-scale city attack in the middle of a Wednesday afternoon..?" Larvali asks, but deadpans when he sees the headline includes 'The Jester'. "You have got to be kidding me..."
Several hours earlier...
Jules, Winston, and Giles are walking down the streets of Manehattan, looking for somewhere to stop.
"Jules... What do we do now?" Winston asks, seemingly nervous.
"Working on it, Winston..." Jules replies, sighing.
"You're doing a wonderful job..." Giles rolls his eyes.
"Nobody asked for your opinion..." Jules whips back before they stop at a crossing.
The trio looks around before crossing the road as the lights turn green to walk.
"Forgive me if I seem on edge... Our boss is dead, our fourth member is somewhere we don't know and I'm hungry as shit..." Jules sighs deeply.
"Look, let's just pick a diner and go in... We can't keep walking around like this." Giles comments.
"It's a shame this isn't a game, otherwise we could just press X or B to pick from two diners..." Winston states, before getting confused looks from his comrades.
"He has a-" Giles begins.
"Don't say it!" Jules sharply states before they continue walking.
"But he does!" Giles protests as the pair catch up to the now fast walking Jules.
The trio eventually enter one of the many diners in Manehattan and take a booth in the middle of the establishment by the window.
"Okay... We have made it to a seat... Perhaps now we can actually think..." Giles comments, relaxing in his seat.
"Thankfully, diners like this are social gathering points and allow for a rich collection of emotions..." Jules muses before the trio look around at the sparse customer population. "Normally..."
"Just great... So not only are we having a shitty week but now we have to settle for salty depressing emotions... Ugh..." Giles complains.
"There is one upside... The waitress is cute..." Winston meekly states earning even more confused looks from his comrades.
At that moment a mint green Unicorn mare walks over to the trio wearing the traditional café waitress outfit. Her mane and tail are a slightly lighter mint green with dark chocolate colored streaks throughout. Her eyes are also a mint green.
"Hello, my name is Minty Chip and I will be your waitress today~" The mare states happily.
"She is rather cute..." Giles comments under his breath.
"Umm... Aren't you the only wait-" Jules is cut off by Winston.
"Can we have three mint chocolate ice cream surprises, please?" Winston asks, with a slight smile.
"Sure, I'll go make those now for you~" Minty Chip walks off after writing in her notepad.
"Well... She was interesting..." Jules comments before sighing deeply.
"Least she tastes better than the majority of sour customers in here..." Giles adds.
"That is a very suggestive line..." Jules looks at Giles.
The trio sigh in unison before their ice cream sundaes are brought to them and placed on the table off a tray Minty Chip is carrying.
"There you go, enjoy~" Minty Chip leaves the table and walks off.
"She is aware changelings don't-" Jules stops himself when he notices Winston happily enjoying his ice cream.
"Looks like we do." Giles adds.
The trio eat their ice creams before Winston slows down a little and looks confused.
"What? Brain freeze or something?" Jules asks Winston who slowly shakes his head.
"Can't you taste that?" Giles asks.
"You mean the overpowering yet minty flavor of the ice cream complimented by the rich yet exotic flavor of the chocolate chips?" Jules asks looking up at Giles who rolls his eyes.
"No, that overpowering flavor of extreme happy that feels like it's choking you to death... It's not natural for ponies to be that happy unless you're pink." Giles shovels some more ice cream into his mouth to mask the taste.
"I take it this seat isn't taken as there is only three of you." A very happy yet eccentric voice states from beside Jules.
The trio look beside Jules to see an anthro male sea serpent with purple scales and brilliant orange hair/mustache that has brilliant yellow streaks within. He wears a pure white suit with a purple embroidered handkerchief that bares the initials S.M .
"Steven 'The Fabulous' Magnet..." Jules swallows some ice cream before holding his head and groaning.
"Brain freeze?" Winston asks Jules who scowls at him.
"If you know who I am, then you also know I won't dispatch any of you. I simply wish to determine your reason for being in Manehattan. If I find this reason satisfactory you may enjoy your ice cream in peace." Steven Magnet explains to them.
"If not..?" Giles asks, curious.
"I'll have to perform my unsavory government given duty and we both know what that means." Steven Magnet orders a cup of coffee from Minty Chip.
"Well, our boss is dead and we didn't know where to go." Jules begins.
"Given that we left Queen Chrysalis with Flutterbat in the first place, we didn't think it best to go back there." Giles adds.
"Plus Manehattan has good ice cream." Winston finishes.
Steven Magnet smiles a little and begins mixing milk and sugar into his tea that Minty Chip brought over on a tray.
"I doubt with such harmless reason I could warrant ending any of you, so I won't. Though I do hope the three of you will be careful around town, it can be very-" Steven is cut off by a massive explosion outside.
The four look out the window to see Manehattan engulfed in flames and rubble everywhere. Steven Magnet stands up, dropping his coffee cup while Winston shoves what remains of his sundae in his mouth.
"Miss Chip, would you kindly-" Steven looks behind him dramatically before noticing Minty Chip is ushering the customers and the manager into a basement hatch.
"Two steps ahead of you, gov~" Minty Chip disappears down the hatch and locks it.
Suddenly the group can hear fighting outside, near the diner.
"While you three would likely wish to run away from the fighting, I may require you to come with me." Steven Magnet states to the trio.
"Are you crazy-" Giles is cut off by Jules.
"Likely the safest place in the whole of Manehattan is with him... I'm prompted to stay with him..." Jules poses to Winston and Giles.
"He seems nice." Winston smiles, finally getting over his brain freeze.
"I guess if we must..." Giles gives in.
"Excellent, now let us investigate!" Steven Magnet points his cane dramatically at the door and rushes out.
The trio follows Steven Magnet reluctantly and sticks close to him through the carnage.
The group runs down the alleyway of the diner before coming across the almost flat ruins of the building next door. They can hear fighting in the area, but cannot see anything.
"What is going on? I can't see a thing..." Jules states annoyed.
"You mean, you can't see them fighting?" Steven Magnet asks, confused.
"I don't see anyone either." Winston adds.
On occasion, the group can hear grunts and yells accompanied by blood splats and slashes which litter the small area. The fighting stops almost instantly and Lightning Dust rolls across the floor into a pile of rubble.
"Hmm... Seems she wasn't quite fast enough to beat you..." Steven Magnet strokes his mustache looking around.
"Who do you mean?" Jules asks, looking at Steven Magnet.
An indigo coated bat pony stallion appears in front of the group. He has a burgundy mane and tail and fuchsia eyes. He is wearing a white tank top, black trousers, and black dress shoes. There are a few scratches in his clothing, and light splotches of blood here and there, but nothing major. "Magnet was speaking of me."
"Where the fuck did he come from?!" Giles states.
"He was the one fighting Lightning Dust. Needless to say even after the fight, he has been there pretty much for the entire time. Granted his existence is mostly a myth, even among the government members of Pathogen." Steven Magnet explains.
The stallion looks to Steven Magnet. "I prefer it that way. The less that even realize I exist, the better I can get around. However, with 'The Jester' here, that isn't the easiest thing to do. Speaking of, I could easily beat Lightning Dust on my own. The remainder of the Wonderbolts, however, is a different story."
"I didn't quite expect her to attack Manehattan in broad daylight, but she is unpredictable. I'm surprised Lightning Dust wasn't with the other two. Any insight on her separation, Moonlit Blur?" Steven Magnet leans on his cane and looks at the bat pony.
"She wanted to fight on her own. Thought she was 'more than enough to take me on.' The Jester didn't argue. She just took Fleetfoot and Spitfire with her, and left the immediate area... after she made this mess." Moonlit Blur replies, looking around.
"You'll have to forgive my interruption, but you said 'Moonlit Blur'... That's a Kansen name. Not only that, but it's 'the' Kansen name known in a very vague myth... That the entity behind the name even exists at all..." Jules informs Steven Magnet.
"Well, it's the only name I know this fellow by... Anyway, where did she go? We should contain this destruction as much as possible." Steven Magnet stands up straight.
Moonlit Blur crosses his arms as he speaks, "With her..? She has no agenda. Probably just in for a bit of 'fun'. Where in this city could she cause the most damage?"
"Likely the shopping district if it's lives she is after. As for property damage... Well, anywhere would do." Steven Magnet gestures around at the towering buildings.
"With what we've seen out of her, I'd say the better bet is the former." Moonlit Blur states.
"Well, if you lads are still sticking with me you'll have to make yourselves useful and join the fight." Steven Magnet states before heading towards the shopping district.
"I guess we have to... This will not be a fun reunion..." Jules states before him and Giles begin to follow Steven Magnet.
"I'd like another bowl of ice cream..." Winston reluctantly follows.
Moonlit Blur walks close behind the group. "That's your choice of a last meal?"
"It was so good, though. Delicious mint ice cream with chocolate sauce... The waitress was cute too." Winston smiles happily.
Moonlit Blur just shakes his head and mutters "Changelings..."
The group enters the times square area of Manehattan to see death and destruction everywhere. In the center of the square is Spitfire and Fleetfoot, both wearing pitch black full body suits.
"I think it's safe to say they have done a number on most of Manehattan..." Jules comments.
"It would also appear that the remaining Wonderbolt members are still in the square." Steven Magnet adds, pointing at the pair with his cane.
The pair in question, seem to be waiting around for something getting slightly impatient as Fleetfoot throws a car into a nearby building for fun.
"Where is Verdammnis?" Giles asks, looking around.
"I don't know, which is never a good sign... Suggestions Moonlit Blur?" Steven Magnet asks, pulling the top of his cane off to draw the sword hidden within.
"I'm not sure. She did leave Lightning Dust with me, but leaving her other two..? Doesn't seem right. I'm not one to allow an opportunity to be wasted, but with that mare... it's hard to say if this is an opportunity or a trap. I do know one thing, however. The longer we sit on this, the more they destroy this city." Moonlit Blur states.
"Well, likely the both of them are SSS rank Kansen. This poses a slight problem for our current line up... You and I might be able to kill them both with little to no problem. These three B ranks are out of their depth here." Steven Magnet comments.
"That they are~" A playful voice states from behind them.
Before any of them can turn around Giles has three blood tentacles burst forth from his torso before they rip him apart. The group jump out of their position and turn around to see Verdammnis, who retracts her tentacles and giggles.
"Well, that kills our chances just a little bit more." Moonlit Blur states, forming and crystallizing daggers out of his blood. "They were dim enough..." He finishes, gritting his teeth.
"You're the little Kansen we came across earlier. I guess Lightning Dust wasn't good enough to keep up... I could kill you all here, but where is the fun in that?" Verdammnis side swipes the two changelings off to the left of the square while she sends Steven Magnet to the right with her tentacles. "Fleetfoot, kill the traitors! Spitfire, get rid of Steven... I will deal with you myself." Verdammnis retracts her tentacles again and smiles.
Moonlit Blur readies himself, never taking his eyes off of Verdammnis. Steven may be able to take out Spitfire... maybe. Those changelings are screwed if they stay with Fleetfoot for too long... And there's the 'Jester'. This won't go well... she's extremely well known, but her style is as unknown as my own.
Verdammnis giggles as she cuts her hand and coats it in her blood before morphing it into a Gatling gun and begins firing at Moonlit Blur.
"I have nothing against melee blood abilities, but some could at least be more creative, like Back Beat~" Verdammnis smiles and her eyes turn a very eager bright blood red.
Moonlit Blur dodges behind some rubble before calling out. "What do you want? An apology that my abilities cater towards a quick kill and not a full on fight?"
"No, I just wanted to see if you can dodge. You would not believe the amount who don't~" Verdammnis re-morphs her gun into an arm blade and sprints forth to slash clean through Moonlit Blur's cover.
Moonlit Blur jumps back a couple times at the impact, throwing one of his daggers aimed at Verdammnis throat before quickly forming another and readying himself for further attacks.
Verdammnis slips to the side slightly avoiding the knife but letting it cut her free hand so she can form duel blades. The changeling lunges forth with deadly precision and attempts to cut Moonlit Blur in any way possible.
Moonlit Blur focuses entirely on dodging and parrying, occasionally getting cut in various degrees of severity.
Verdammnis grins wide as she slides towards Moonlit Blur before attempting an X-shaped slash attack. "You do an awful lot of dodging~"
Moonlit Blur crosses his own blades to intercept Verdammnis' attack. "You're doing an awful lot of holding yourself back... Aren't you?"
Verdammnis pushes Moonlit Blur back before jumping away from him. "Aww it's a shame you saw that so easily, but if you're good enough to keep up with those weak attacks..." Verdammnis morphs her blood to cover her whole arms and her legs forming blades on the outer part. "Let me show you what my version of Tartarus looks like..." Verdammnis grows a wider grin as her eyes go black instead of white.
Winston and Jules run down the street next to the square as Fleetfoot isn't far behind with dual blood arm blades. The pair duck inside a destroyed tool shop and hide beneath the counter.
"Not to be the bearer of bad news, but we don't stand a chance against that psycho. We need to find some way to outsmart her..." Jules ponders.
"Jules... What are we going to do? Giles is dead..." Winston states.
"I know... I know... It's likely that neither of us will live through this. We had an amazing run." Jules peeks over the counter to see Fleetfoot looking for them outside.
"You know I'm no good with this sort of stuff... You and Giles always handled the complicated stuff... I miss Giles..." Winston states playing with some nearby tools.
"I know, as do I... Wait a moment... I have an idea, Winston, and this time I'm going to need your help." Jules states, dragging Winston further into the shop.
Several minutes later outside, Fleetfoot is slashing cars and destroying mailboxes trying to find the two changelings.
"Where the fuck are they..? Stupid little bugs..." Fleetfoot states in annoyance.
"Are you looking for us?!" Jules shouts from behind her.
Fleetfoot turns around to see Jules standing by the tool shop. Growling slightly she begins to walk at a medium pace towards him.
"This is likely to fail, but oh well... Winston!" Jules calls before ducking inside the shop.
Looking confused, Fleetfoot is suddenly crushed by a large chunk of rubble that fell off the top of the tool shop. Winston looks out from the hole left behind.
"Is she dead?" Winston asks.
"I doubt it." Jules quickly replies as they both leave the shop and head further down the street.
Fleetfoot cuts herself free from the chunk and growls much more loudly.
"I'm going to enjoy ending both of your miserable lives!" Fleetfoot begins to give chase.
Meanwhile, back in the square, Steven Magnet and Spitfire circle each other. The former Wonderbolt captain has a single arm blade prepared in front of her while Steven Magnet has only his cane.
"You seem a little naked there with just a cane to defend yourself with." Spitfire states with a smirk.
"It seems being tainted by Kansen blood has dulled your training. Allow me to enlighten you, dear captain." Steven Magnet states.
Spitfire lunges at Steven Magnet, only to be blocked and repelled by his cane. The dance repeats like this for several slashes and strikes that refuse to get past the Sea Dragons defense stance. Growling, Spitfire grows impatient and charges at Steven Magnet. Upon reaching striking distance, Steven magnet detaches the top of his cane from the main body and performs a single slash across Spitfire's body as she slides past him. Holding her chest, she has a long cut going from her shoulder down to her hip,.
"So you're spry for an old Sea Dragon... Doesn't mean a thing." Spitfire states.
Steven Magnet simply hums as he holds his cane sheath in one hand and the top part of his cane in the other. The top of his cane has a long thin blade attached to it. The pair begins fighting again, but this time Steven Magnet's movements have changed. He now speeds around and strikes with precision at Spitfire's key blind spots. Clashing swords harshly, he slips underneath her arm and simply flicks his wrist once before sliding around her to do the same motion several times. Jumping back from her, Steven Magnet sheathes his cane sword and sighs.
"Three Verse Humming Sea Dragon Repertoire!" Steven Magnet states upon fully sheathing his sword.
At the moment of sheathing, countless slashes appear all at once on Spitfire, causing her to scream in agony as she falls to her knees.
"Neat trick... Bet you can't do it again..." Spitfire grits her teeth and stands up.
Throwing out both her arms she coats her body in blood armor and sports two large blood arm blades. She begins to charge at Steven magnet again.
"You have forgotten discipline... You were the Wonderbolt captain. While cocky, you were also cool headed and relied upon. I enjoyed the company of the Wonderbolts the best, perhaps that's why we went on so many operations together... With a Kansen here like Verdammnis, I already know my fate is sealed. The least I can do before I die is free a dear friend." Steven Magnet comments as he dodges Spitfires constant slashes.
Gliding around her attempts to strike and slash him, Steven magnet once again flicks his wrist many times around the former captain.
"Three Verse Humming Pathogen Serenade!" Steven Magnet states.
Spitfire is hit with another payload of slashes and this time Steven Magnet thrusts his sword through her blood armor and into her chest. Spitfire manages to stab her blade into Steven Magnet's shoulder before he lowers her to the ground. Spitfire's arm blades and armor return to normal blood and slide to the floor.
"It's a shame this was the outcome... It would have been nice to perform one last dance before our end. I guess fate was not so kind." Steven magnet sighs as Spitfire coughs up blood.
"Nah Steven... We were always heading for this route... Kinda what happens when the balance of our world is fucked to begin with." Spitfire chuckles.
"Perhaps in the afterlife, we can all regroup for that last dance?" Steven Magnet smiles slightly.
"Maybe, but you're buying..." Spitfire states.
In the last moments before Steven Magnet watched the light fade from Spitfire's eyes she was by all appearances, herself. Steven Magnet stands up after closing Spitfire's eyes and sheathes his cane sword before walking over to where Verdammnis and Moonlit Blur are fighting
Verdammnis cuts the concrete cover into several pieces before smashing it apart as Moonlit Blur narrowly dodges.
"You insist on being so slippery... It really annoys me!" Verdammnis yells before charging again.
"As I said before, quick kill, not a fight." Moonlit Blur replied, trying to get an angle to attack.
Verdammnis continues her endless pursuit using her arm and leg blades to occasionally get in slashes which cut Moonlit blur's clothes.
"Maybe this isn't hell enough for you!" Verdammnis growls.
"Still holding back, then?" Moonlit Blur asks before taking a chance by throwing another of his daggers, still doing his best to dodge the oncoming onslaught.
Verdammnis deflects the dagger and suddenly appears in front of Moonlit Blur.
"Let's change that, shall we?" Verdammnis states with a smile.
Taking Moonlit Blur by surprise, she grabs his head and slams her knee up into it. She then uses her momentum to spin kick him into a nearby statue that breaks in half upon contact.
Moonlit Blur slowly begins to pick himself up as he looks at Verdammnis. "This may just be the possible concussion talking, but," Moonlit Blur pauses to cough up a bit of blood before continuing. "...Are you still holding back?"
"You long for the cold touch of death... Don't you..?" Verdammnis' hisses.
Verdammnis can be seen to move twice before kneeling in front of Moonlit blur and holding his chin.
"If I didn't dislike stallions so much I'd use my blood to watch you squirm... I guess you'll have to go the slightly quicker and rougher way." Verdammnis' grin becomes more sinister.
Moving her hand to tightly grip his throat she lifts him up as her whole body is covered in light looking knight armor. The helmet that forms around her head has a malicious design and yellow glowing eyes.
"I'm going to etch this face into your very mind so whenever you close your eyes... You'll see me. Though, you'll be dead... So, a little pointless." Verdammnis states.
Creating spikes on her gauntlets she continues to pound and beat Moonlit Blur repeatedly with little to no mercy. The remains of the statue and the area around them starts to be covered in Moonlit Blur's blood. Finishing up her flurry of repeated blows she kicks him against a nearby wall and watches him slide down before bending over and checking him.
"You dead yet, plaything?" Verdammnis asks, with a playful tone.
"Maybe... if you... stopped... playing around... I would be..." Moonlit Blur managed before spitting some blood off to the side.
"You are hardly entertaining... I guess I should finish this and find a new toy to play with." Verdammnis states as she pulls back her fist and aims for Moonlit Blur's head.
As Verdammnis releases her arm forwards into a thrust, she suddenly strays off course and obliterates a massive hole beside Moonlit Blur's head through the several inch thick concrete wall. Looking at her chest she can see that the blade of Steven Magnet's cane sword is sticking through it.
"I hope I'm not too late, the recently deceased Wonderbolt captain lived up to her reputation." Steven Magnet states as he jumps back away from Verdammnis.
The Changeling mare growls loudly as her armor retreats back into her body. Verdammnis slams her hoof down harshly onto both of Moonlit Blur's legs, breaking them which causes him great pain. Flexing her wrist she grabs his head.
"Do make sure not to go anywhere... I'm not done with you." Verdammnis hisses in his ear.
Moonlit Blur looks down to his legs, then back up to her before rolling his eyes. "I don't believe being a Kansen will even help me heal that quickly. Well... assuming you have no trouble with Magnet."
"This prancing ponce of a Sea Serpent is not a threat... No more than you are..." Verdammnis states before bearing her blood claws from her nails.
Steven Magnet hums as he places his left hand behind his back, readying his cane sword. Verdammnis emits a low primal growl before pouncing at Steven Magnet. The Sea Serpent deflects and blocks the swipes he can, his suit slowly being torn up.
"Most Kansen have a defined nature which makes them easy to fight. Only a select few can cycle through various blood weapons... Those are the most dangerous." Steven Magnet states as he flicks his wrist to deflect a swipe.
"Your overly happy presence sickens me... Your very taste is toxic..." Verdammnis states before growling louder. Verdammnis flexes her arms and her black eyes form a bug like blood red slit in the middle. "Let's end this game of cat and mouse!" Verdammnis states, with a deeper darker voice.
Steven Magnet and Verdammnis fight much more fiercely than before. No matter how much he cuts or slashes her body, she keeps coming at him with reckless abandonment. Steven Magnet sustains his own cuts and damage. After several minutes of fighting, they stand inches away from each other stance ready.
"Three Verse Humming-" Steven Magnet begins, but is cut off.
Verdammnis quickly appeared behind Steven magnet before grabbing his head tightly. She lifts him up as he drops his cane sword and growls.
"That is enough of your overly happy aura and bloody humming!" Verdammnis complains.
Verdammnis plunges her claws through Steven Magnet's back through to his chest before dropping him to the ground. She then stomps on his back and takes a deep breath before stabbing all her claws through his heart, leaving him lifeless after several seconds.
"Finally peace and quiet..?" Verdammnis looks in the direction of Fleetfoot and lets out a heavy sigh. "Seriously? All three of them in one raid? Now I have to find new mares..."
Verdammnis begins to walk off away from Moonlit Blur and Steven Magnet's body. Before she gets too far, Verdammnis turns around and smiles at Moonlit Blur.
"I'm sorry, I almost forgot about you. Any last words? Your real name would be nice." Verdammnis states as she forms her right forearm into a blood cannon.
Moonlit Blur stares in disbelief for a short moment before replying, "Night Ace... Now... We all know you're completely insane, but a cannon? That's a lot of mess for a guy that can't move his legs." He states, gesturing to the mangled mess that she had made moments before.
"I suppose, but I do want to make sure I kill you. Least it'll be quick. Is that everything you have to say, Night Ace?" Verdammnis asks, morphing her cannon into a more rifle-like shape.
Night Ace shrugs lightly, before wincing. "As if it matters? It isn't like anything I say could save my life, now, is it?"
"Say something nice." Verdammnis prompts Night Ace, as she strokes the end of her blood rifle against his cheek.
Night Ace chuckles and tilts his head. "I may not have anything bad to say, but how could I possibly have anything nice to say in my current situation?"
"That is a very good point." Verdammnis states, nodding her head.
She then presses the barrel of her blood rifle against Night Ace's forehead and fires a single shot, which splats against the wall behind him combined with his own blood. Letting her blood flow back inside her, Verdammnis looks around at the destruction and sighs deeply.
"I feel like some mint ice cream... Where was that diner again?" Verdammnis says to herself, before skipping off on her search.
Author's Note
Well... Firstly, this fic is alive. I realise a chapter hasn't come out in a while, but my proofreader should be back for a while so more chapters can be worked on with greater haste. Next chapter will take a bit of work, but it should be out soonish. Sorry for the long wait.
The Crystal Empire is having a moderately quiet day compared to the regular chaos the rest of Equestria seems to be going through in the uprising of Heilung's activities. However, two hooded ponies walking casually towards the castle had plans to change all of that. The left pony can be identified as Shimmer, while the right pony is of a smaller build in comparison. Her hood is down showing she has a pink coat and a deep pink mane and tail with sky blue eyes. The mare chuckles sinisterly to herself which draws the attention of her comrade.
"Pinkie Pie... After Manehattan, I'm sure Chrysalis would want us to lay a little bit low. Is this necessary?" Shimmer asks as they approach the Crystal Empire castle.
The mare looks up from her kitchen knife sharply to glare at Shimmer while pointing said knife in his direction.
"I told you not to use that name anymore, it's Pinkamena only now. To answer your question... Yes." Pinkamena states with a cold air to her voice.
"I understand what you must be going through, but there needs to be a purpose to our actions." Shimmer states sighing deeply.
"You truly don't understand, you have no reason to. There is a purpose here... A bloody one." Pinkamena states idly cutting her left hand.
"If I am to go along with this madness... Can you at least tell me about your plan?" Shimmer states as they near the outskirts of the castle area.
"Was I suppose to have one..? I guess if I must... You stay down there in the area underneath, while I go up and redecorate a little. Think you can hold any reinforcements off for that long?" Pinkamena asks, glancing up at Shimmer.
The stallion in question deploys a mask in the shape of a leopard while removing his cloak to throw over his shoulder as he stretches.
"If that is what you wish... I will do what I can but make no promises." Shimmer states as he readies his fingerless black gloves.
As they near the underneath of the castle, the guards begin to react by approaching them. Several guards fortify the three stairways leading up into the castle with extra security as even more soldiers are brought down to detain the supposed threat.
"Looks like they finally noticed us... Shall I start us off?" Pinkamena looks at Shimmer expectantly.
Shimmer nods, causing Pinkamena's smile to widen as she flips her knife backwards and suddenly speeds towards the closest guard. With precision, she slices straight through his juggler. The resulting spray begins to decorate the floor and her face before he falls down onto his front. The nearby guards decide to charge at her while the soldiers stay back to provide fire support. Sliding past their bullets with ease, Pinkamena manoeuvres herself so she can cut the back of the second guard's legs. Upon kneeling on the floor the mare shoves her knife into the back of his head while flipping up his spear to impale a third guard through his left eye socket. Pushing the impaled guard to the side, Pinkamena kicks up his fallen spear before using it to cut her hand so she can attach a blood thread to the handle of her knife. Once done she uses all her force to throw the spear at one of the distant soldiers pinning him through the chest against the wall. Utilising the thread she yanks her knife free of the dead guards head so she can cut down a fourth charging guard with ruthless ease, making more blood coat her face as her smile only grows.
"Are you keeping up?" Pinkamena licks her knife before glancing backwards in Shimmer's direction.
Behind her, Shimmer is being charged by four soldiers with Crystal Empire issued sabres. Shimmer grabs the first sabre before smashing his forehead into the soldier's, denting his helmet. Letting go of the sabre, Shimmer turns around to slam his fist into the chest of the second soldier, forcing him to roll backwards across the floor. The third and fourth soldier charge together but are stopped when Shimmer smashes their heads against each other to put them on the floor.
"You focus on your own slaughter, Pinkamena. You won't have to concern yourself with me." Shimmer states, kicking a fifth soldier into a nearby wall which cracks it.
Shrugging, Pinkamena turns around to narrowly dodge an officer's sabre which slides past her head. Ducking down she plunges her knife up into the right side of the attacking stallion's chest, piercing his heart before twisting her blade sharply. Pushing the corpse of her latest victim to the floor, Pinkamena uses the thread to retrieve her knife making it snake around her. Several more soldiers spill from the three stairways leading up into the castle to surround Pinkamena, making her smile and hold her arms out either side of her body.
"You're going to need bigger guns." Pinkamena chuckles lowly.
Aiming their guns the soldiers fired several rounds at Pinkamena. When the bullets are mere inches away from her body the mare in question vibrates very briefly before her entire form morphs into pure blood. The bullets travel through her to hit the opposite soldier who fired them. Smiling wide, Pinkamena throws her knife with precision towards a soldier in front of her. Suddenly focusing her eyes, she travels along her blood thread with blinding speed to slam her hands into the chests of the two soldiers either side of the soldier with her knife in his throat. Lifting herself up to place her feet on the middle soldier, she uses him like a push board allowing her to launch herself into the air taking her hands out of the neighbouring guards. Using her momentum, she follows the move with a cartwheel while also calling back her knife. Motioning her wrist to the side, the knife manages to do a blinding fast run around the entire encircling company to slit all their throats as they fired at Pinkamena. The resulting bullet fire shredded the mares clothes while also managing to hit various soldiers behind the first line. The soldiers stay standing for several seconds as their blood sprays all over the floor painting it and Pinkamena red. The mare in question holds her head up and takes a deep breath to inhale the sincere scent of death she is responsible for.
Shimmer walks over to Pinkamena dragging two guards with him before snapping their necks and dropping them down.
"There should be enough of a gap for you to go upstairs now. That's an interesting ability you have developed by the way." Shimmer comments before cracking his knuckles.
"I quite like it myself, I'll see you when I'm done then." Pinkamena states before briefly vibrating again to morph back into her normal state.
Watching the bloodied pink mare walk away from him, slashing down any odd soldier who still feels like charging her, Shimmer sighs deeply before moving to secure the base of the castle.
Erlöser groans as he slowly wakes up to find himself on the cold stone floor of the room him and Scorpia were sparring in. Looking around, he can't seem to find the stallion in question before sitting up and rubbing the back of his head.
Scorpia walks back into the room from a hallway to Erlöser's left. "Finally conscious?"
"Yeah, no thanks to you..." Erlöser grumbles as he gets up.
Scorpia shrugs before replying. "You wanted to train. I have a few thousand years on you. Get stronger or continue to sleep. Anyway... did you know Sinclair is our uncle?"
"Only because they sent you that far back... Did I hit you too hard?" Erlöser states giving Scorpia a weird look.
"Asks the one who just got off of the floor." Scorpia replies.
"Psh, Details. Seriously though, how did you even come to that conclusion? Do we even know who else is our uncle?" Erlöser frowns as he crosses his arms.
Scorpia motions to the dragon mural as he replies. "It isn't the only one. One of Sinclair in the room down the hall. As for others, I haven't remembered... If the memory is even there."
"How do you even know that it's Sinclair?" Erlöser asks, unfolding his arms.
"Dragon surrounded by tentacle-like strands... Sound familiar?" Scorpia asks, raising an eyebrow.
"That could be anypony..." Erlöser states in weak defence.
"Okay... ignoring what he just did to us, have you seen or heard of any other Kansen to use anything similar?" Scorpia asks.
"Not that I know of, no... Seriously? He's our uncle?" Erlöser asks, having to lean on a pillar for support.
"Unless the mural in a room connected to a room with a mural of us isn't related to us, yeah." Scorpia states. "I don't like him..."
"Why don't you like him? Oh... Okay, I can kinda see why you'd dislike him." Erlöser states, making a pained expression.
"The worst part... I made some extremely good friends." Scorpia states, leaning against a nearby wall.
"How is that a bad thing?" Eröser asks, looking confused.
"For starters, we don't age. Death after death after death after death that I had to just live through without any way to stop any of it." Scorpia states, hitting the wall upon each 'death'. "And finally, I watched it perish. Completely and very suddenly. She didn't exactly die, but she was left a husk. Basically a living corpse." Scorpia replies.
"I feel somewhat sorry for that wall right now... Who is 'she' anyway?" Erlöser asks, taking a few steps away from his pillar.
"The last of the bloodline... or, at least, I thought she was. Found out fairly recently that it split at one point and it's not completely gone." Scorpia sighs.
"Umm okay... To think, I've only been living as an orphan since you were sent away, you've had it much worse." Eröser states, looking at the dragon mural.
Scorpia shakes his head. "You don't know the half of it... well, you might have some idea, if your time on the ground says anything."
"I'm not saying you didn't have it hard, but when all this actually started getting all Kansen and shit... I was prepared to let this burly ass Kansen paint the alleyway a new shade of red before Rainbow stepped in. My point is, I was at my limit and willing to just die, I didn't even care anymore." Erlöser states getting agitated.
"In this one never-ending lifetime I have seen so much strife. Caused it myself. Hurt those close to me. Seen so much war. Despite everything I've seen, never once did I think to end it or to even let somepony else do the job for me. You lived for a little over a decade in an orphanage and were ready to die? You're pathetic." Scorpia states, punching and cracking the wall.
"You don't know shit, you weren't there. I was alone, no mother, no father, not even friends to speak of. I had no pony who was willing to do anything for me! While yes, I have no idea how you lived in that other world, for some reason I can imagine you maybe had support. Even if just a little. I. Had. Nothing!" Erlöser states with more agitation and exaggerated hand gestures.
Scorpia taps his head as he replies, "You seem to be forgetting that I was there."
"You... Part of you was dormant then, how would you know all I went through? Even if you did, you should know I'm not as strong as you..." Erlöser kicks a random stone into the wall.
"No, no you clearly aren't." Scorpia replies, pulling the stone out of the wall and chucking it at Erlöser's head.
Erlöser slides slightly to the side to avoid the stone. "Then what is the point of us being here still?"
Scorpia picks up another stone and uses it to open a wound on his hand. He then soaks the stone in his blood, crystallises it, and chucks it at Erlöser while replying, "To convert the Blood Dragon of Bitching back into the Blood Dragon of Redemption."
In frustration, Erlöser spin kicks the stone back into the wall deeper than before.
"What even is the fucking point?" Erlöser asks, using a nearby flint to cut his own hand and forms a blood spear to throw at Scorpia with some force.
Scorpia pulls the rock back out and uses it to deflect the spear, before raising the rock up. "This is the point. You kicked it away. It may just be a rock, but it's covered in my Crystallised blood. Just a couple days ago, this likely would have left a hole in your gut. You are faster, more precise, and physically stronger."
"Yet, I'm still weak enough to be put on my ass by you." Erlöser states, forming some blood into a perfect sphere before hardening it and spinning around to throw it at Scorpia with force.
Scorpia throws the crystallised stone at the sphere, making it rip through the small sphere before continuing onwards to Erlöser, who barely dodges it.
"Son of a bitch! Stop with the fucking pebble!" Erlöser states before forming his draconic longsword to attack Scorpia.
"Well, I mean, it's behind you now. Also... You realise you just called Luna that, correct?" Scorpia replies, forming his scythe.
"I wasn't sure if you considered Luna our... your mother yet." Erlöser replies, slashing at Scorpia downwards diagonally from the right.
"Believe me, I'm extremely conflicted on the matter." Scorpia replies, dodging to get a slight cut on his right arm.
"I'm just happy to know I have parents, let alone that one is alive... You can't really deny your birth." Erlöser grunts before turning to slash horizontally from the left at Scorpia.
Scorpia jumps back to get a small cut on his stomach. "When I've both raised her and apparently been raised by her, I think I have some leeway." Scorpia replies with a pained grunt.
"You more than I." Erlöser comments lunging forwards.
Scorpia moves to his left a bit and flips the scythe to barely deflect the sword, leaving a small gash in his side. Erlöser skips forwards after the deflect to attempt another lunge only this time with more force towards Scorpia's chest.
"Are you slower or is it just me." Erlöser states mid-lunge.
Scorpia manipulates his blood from his stomach wound to cover his chest and crystallises it for a shield. Erlöser takes several steps backwards after his sword is deflected off Scorpia's crystallised chest shield. Scorpia jumps back to kick off the wall, charging at Erlöser and readying his scythe to strike. In response, Erlöser goes for a lunging stab towards Scorpia's mid-torso region. Scorpia, as he nears Erlöser, goes to swing before looking at him. For the slightest second Erlöser appears as a changeling with piercing blue eyes in the middle of a field causing Scorpia to falter and get pierced by the blade, driving it completely through his torso and knocking Erlöser down. Erlöser de-morphs his blade before using the blood to keep Scorpia's wound sealed. Staring down at the sight before him a mixture of unknown emotions are currently racing through his mind, unsure exactly what to do.
"Y-you need a hospital! This is not happening again!" Erlöser panics as he looks around frantically.
Picking up Scorpia, Erlöser runs down one of the hallways in search for a way out of the castle basement.
As Erlöser runs, Scorpia weakly speaks, "Back to the carving..."
"Which one? You said you found another." Erlöser argues, running back to the main room.
"Us... quickly..." Scorpia states.
Erlöser takes them over to the dragon carving of the two blood dragons. Scorpia raises his sliced hand and rubs it lightly on the carving, causing a small blood streak before dropping his arm and passing out. The carving itself suddenly indents from the wall and splits apart revealing a hidden path.
"Sneaky bastards... You better not fucking die on me again." Erlöser starts running down the revealed path.
Pinkamena slowly walks through the castle hallway dragging her hand across the wall, smearing blood as she goes. Two soldiers charge Pinkamena, only to have her slide past in between them, slashing her knife wildly. The two soldiers in question suddenly spray blood from several choice slash wounds before collapsing. Yawning, she uses her knife to stab a guard in the heart, pinning him up against the wall before twisting it to finish him swiftly. After dropping him, Pinkamena continues to redecorate the castle in many shades of red.
"You'd think I would have encountered the royal guards by now... Quite disappointed by the common grunt." Pinkamena stretches a little before smiling at the sight before her.
Two ponies stand in front of her dressed in full dull silver suits of armour with royal guard longswords. Preparing themselves they nod to each other before charging the pink mare in question.
"On our honour as royal guards, thou shalt not pass!" The right royal guard states with zeal.
Pinkamena continues to smile as she engages the pair, dodging and deflecting both of their swords using just her knife. They continue to press the mare, causing her to step back forcefully as frustration began to set in. Pinkamena jumps over the pair and just narrowly leans harshly backwards to avoid a joint slice like a pair of scissors. Pushing one of the royal guards against the wall, he manages to stab Pinkamena through the stomach as his partner goes for her heart from behind. The mare smiles as she morphs into her blood form making him slide right through her into his partner's chest instead. Not wasting an opportunity, Pinkamena pushes the royal guard behind her into the other's blade through her stomach using her tendril knife. Chuckling she smiles and sighs while looking into the guard's eyes.
"Not bad for the royal guard, truly a cut above the average grunt. However, you still lose~" Pinkamena slips out from between them playfully before turning back and looking at her clothes.
Rolling her eyes at how shredded they are she continues onward up the hallway as the two royal guards fall and slide down into their respective places. More victims of her rampage. Eventually, Pinkamena finds herself in a slightly wider hallway which leads to the throne room. In front of the doors, she can see six royal guards in silver armour. The two at the back have silver kite shields and protect the door, while the four in front of them carrying longswords, a spear, two sets of daggers and a greatsword. Holding out her arms, Pinkamena slowly walks towards them with a wide grin.
"Is this it? Is this pathetic collection of mismatched weapon wielding tin cans the best the Crystal Empire Royal Guard can do?!" Pinkamena shouts in frustration.
"Do not be so quick to judge, Pinkamena Diane Pie." An authoritative male voice can be heard behind her making Pinkamena scoff and grit her teeth as she glances towards the back of the room.
Standing only a few inches away from the mare is another eleven royal guards all carrying an assortment of weapons much like their squad of comrades in front of the throne room door. At the front of the group stands a proud soldier wearing bold purple armour with gold trim that bears a star on a shield upon its chest plate. In his right hand is a knight shield in the same colours as his armour while on the opposite hip sits a gold-hilted longsword in its sheath.
"The Crystal Empire Royal Guard is personally hand picked by Prince Shining Armour, living and dying to protect both the kingdom and those who live within its borders." A royal guard holding a longsword states, proudly.
"Twenty-two, including his majesty, makes up the finest collection of dedicated soldiers you will ever find anywhere in Equestria." The second longword soldier continues.
"If you wish to breach those doors Miss Pie, you shall do so over our cold lifeless corpses and not a single second sooner! I will defend my family and our home to my last dying breath!" Shining Armour states as he draws his longsword.
The legion of royal guards beside him prepare themselves as well and await the mares next move. Pinkamena begins to chuckle before outright laughing in hysterics as she sighs deeply and wipes her amused tears.
"As you wish..." Pinkamena states, before opening her shredded jacket to pull out a second kitchen knife which she flips backwards in her right hand, holding her left normally.
Pinkamena back flips up to avoid a spear-wielding royal guard before dropping just in time to dodge another using a steel greatsword. Wearing a wide smile, Pinkamena flips her knives up into the air before using a royal guard to cut her hands with their longsword. Manipulating her blood, she grabs the knives using blood tendrils like earlier in her assault. Spinning around to avoid the royal guard's sword again, she pierces her first knife into the slot of their helmet, following up with a slice across their neck to spill a large quantity of blood onto the floor. Pulling the knife out of the royal guard's face she jumps out of the way to avoid a downward slash from the greatsword royal guard who slams it into the ground. Waiting behind the mare is a female royal guard holding two engraved daggers which she uses to engage the mare in close quarters combat. A third royal guard ruses in using a short sword to flank Pinkamena, but she blocks the daggers while sliding down to avoid an eager slash from the short sword. The bloodthirsty mare smiles before snaking her free knife up behind the royal guard to stab it straight through the back of his neck. Spinning his body around and into the dagger royal guard, Pinkamena is able to use their own short sword to plunge up into the mare's stomach before twisting the blade sharply and pushing them both away.
"5-0 if we count the two in the hallway from before~" Pinkamena sings excitedly as the other royal guards show frustration towards her.
Two thin female and male royal guards charge the mare, clenching their fists tightly before forming duel Kansen arm blades that appear sharper and more advanced than standard ones seen previously.
"Kansen? How very interesting~" Pinkamena grins as she stretches.
The two clash and the bloody mare manages to gladly keep up with the twin assault as she dodges, deflects and blocks countless slashes. Moving up behind her she glanced back to catch sight of a large royal guard winding up for a heavy sideswipe with a big looking hammer. Sliding down into an insanely flexible splits manoeuvre, the hammer is swung only to violently smash into and crush the two Kansen duel blade wielders as they are flung across the room.
"7-0, you don't seem to be able to play this game too well." Pinkamena giggles before sliding up to stand properly and jumps backwards as the royal guards regroup.
"While I do not know what madness drove you to attack the Crystal Empire, I can promise it will not go unpunished. Even should we fall today, you will face your justice somewhere at the hands of one far more capable than us!" Shining Armour states before he and the remaining royal guard charge Pinkamina.
The mare smiles as she prepares herself for a very fun time.
Author's Note
Well, this took a while I hope to get more updates out soon but make no promises as I know how my schedule can be. See you next time.
Erlöser sits in a chair beside the hospital bed where a bandaged Scorpia lay, seemingly asleep. The room itself seems to be fitted with specialised equipment, potentially used to treat members of Pathogen. After a few moments, Scorpia begins to stir. He then looks around to assess his surroundings before stopping on Erlöser.
"Didn't die this time." He states weakly.
Looking up from his sitting position, Erlöser sighs deeply and yawns a little before looking unamused.
"Yeah, well... Assuming we are on about the same thing... We have hospitals this time, plus you would have died if not for that wall thing." Erlöser rubs his eyes.
"Guess there's a plus behind being sent as far back as I was. An understanding of the castle... or, at least, a vague one." Scorpia states in response.
"I suppose... I've been sitting here processing what happened, among other things..." Erlöser stares vaguely at a random empty spot on the white ceiling.
"And?" Scorpia asks, shifting himself slightly.
"And what?" Erlöser's attention is drawn back to Scorpia.
"What are you thinking about? Or... What have you remembered?" Scorpia asks.
"I'm not entirely sure what I am 'remembering'... It's mostly fuzzy with only certain bits coming through." Erlöser rubs his forehead.
"Well, we obviously both remember me being run through, and inevitably dying... You have had more time to remember than I have, though." Scorpia replies, gesturing to his wounds.
Erlöser sighs and looks uncomfortable. "I might have lied about the fuzzy thing... I just... I don't know how to make sense of what I am remembering."
"Well, what is it that you're remembering? What doesn't make sense?" Scorpia asks.
"I think... Were we Changelings? I recall some form of a hive, maybe... A long time ago?" Erlöser states unsure.
"I'm certain about the Changeling part. As for a hive... it's likely, but I don't know." Scorpia states, pondering.
"If we were Changelings, it's more than likely we were in a hive... Does this mean that what I'm remembering is a 'past incarnation'?" Erlöser asks, not sure about the answer he wants to hear.
"I'm pretty sure that if it wasn't, the memory wouldn't have caused me to pause long enough to fall on your blade." Scorpia states, rubbing his chest.
"It makes sense, but how? More importantly why only now am I, we, remembering stuff from our supposed pasts?" Erlöser asks, sitting back in his chair.
"Well... I hadn't remembered a thing before I was given back my essence. Nor you, before it was removed, if I understand correctly. My guess is now that we're... 'us' again, we're finally going to begin recalling just who 'we' are." Scorpia states, sighing.
"Well... From what I can remember... My name is still Erlöser, I don't think I've had any other name... I also remember some other stuff to do with the Changeling 'incarnation', I suppose we should say.." Erlöser seems unsure how to feel about his memories.
Scorpia chuckles a bit before replying. "Of course your name is still Erlöser. I only go by Scorpia now because of our uncle's mistake. It was the name given to me by the mare who found and raised me when I arrived in that other Equestria. Anyway, what is it that we're remembering now?"
"Assuming you're the other Changeling I am remembering and seeing as they look the same as the one I stabbed... We were lesbians and extremely incestuous..." Erlöser states abnormally calmly.
"Well..," Scorpia pauses for a moment to collect his thoughts, "That would give ample reason for me to falter in an attack... And not just once, either."
"You appear abnormally calm about this information... Regardless if it does give reason to both falters." Erlöser raises an eyebrow.
"Well, I mean... What should I feel? Weird? Awkward? Surprised? It's in a previous life. The only way I can think it might matter now is if there was a life where one of us was male and the other female and... had a kid. Then there'd be a problem." Scorpia states.
"I seriously have no idea what I'm feeling right now... Kinda curious how that even ended up being a thing and how many previous lives did the same... I'm not really complaining. If anything, we were very attractive Changelings." Erlöser chuckles.
"Right..." Scorpia replies, looking at Erlöser, before raising his brow. "Speaking of... have you looked in a mirror lately?"
"You're not exactly the poster model for attractive stallions either..." Erlöser frowns.
"Has it ever looked like I care?" Scorpia asks, putting a hand through his mess of a mane. "That's not what I'm talking about. Seriously, go look in a mirror."
Sighing deeply, Erlöser gets up and exits the room taking a trip to the bathroom. Scorpia has mere moments of peace before Erlöser comes running back in.
"What did that son of a bitch for an uncle do to my fucking eyes?!" Erlöser is wide-eyed and panting.
"I don't know. This purple looks better than the red, though. Wonder if the rest will follow suit." Scorpia replies, looking at Erlöser's mane.
"Da fuck do you mean 'if the rest will follow suit'?! I didn't consent to this shit!" Elöser panics slightly.
"Look at it as an improvement. After all, red isn't really your colour. Especially that red," Scorpia says, pointing to Erlöser's mane, "against the blue of your coat. I, for one, welcome this change."
"It's not you who has to fucking welcome it! Why is it even changing now? Why is everything happening now?" Erlöser manages to control himself enough to sit back down.
"A cleansing, maybe? You did live with 'me' inside you for over a decade. Can't be too healthy to have destruction inside you."
"Cleansing of what? I don't do drugs... Ugh, this is so frustrating. The creepy disembodied voice I could handle, but as soon as you show up everything spiraled much faster out of control. Elder blood dragons, Kansen, our mother/father, the fucking head researcher for Pathogen as our uncle... What the fuck..?" Erlöser sighs deeply and rubs his eyes.
"Creepy... okay. Cleansing of... me, really. I mean... you're Erlöser. Salvation. And, generally, blue. I'm... Zerstörung. Destruction. Generally red... maybe maroon." Scorpia grabs a lock of his mane to emphasise his point. "So, maybe, your body is just putting itself back to how it was before Sinclair forced me into you.
"As for everything spiraling out of control upon my arrival... How do you think I feel? I got forced out of my home. I was comfortable right where I was. For me... It's actually somewhat annoying. You... you have family now. Those you care about. Those that care about you. You remember your situation just days before I got here?" Scorpia asks, looking out the window.
"I wanted to die, was taken in by Larvali, met the others, got thrown in with Flutterbat... I wouldn't exactly call it a cake walk either... Despite if you were sent away for an eternity basically, you still have family here too..." Erlöser sighs.
"I'm not saying it was easy for you... just that it's gotten better. In some strange sense. As you said, you wanted to die before. Didn't care for anything. That's changed. Everything changed around my arrival. And yes... I do have family. But... it's all weird." Scorpia states.
"Regardless of how weird it is... I mean, fuck, having blood abilities is about as weird as it gets around here, but add in that we are blood dragons? Yeah, it's a whole new level of weird, but we are and still have, family." Erlöser sighs, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Once this war or whatever ends... Assuming it does, what am I supposed to do? Stay here? Find a way home? This is, arguably, home. But that other Equestria is home. I just... I don't know what to do anymore. I know one thing that I should do and that led to me lying in a hospital bed." Scorpia sighs deeply.
"I wouldn't expect you to stay here really. Not if you have obligations in the other Equestria." Erlöser states as he folds his arms.
"That's the thing. At this point, it seems that I may have some in both..." Scorpia states, frowning.
"It's up to you then. I think mother said she'd check by later on you to see how you're doing." Erlöser informs Scorpia.
"I don't think I'm ever gonna know how to look at her..." Scorpia states, uncomfortable.
"That's something you'll have to figure out on your own." Erlöser states in response.
"Maybe I'll just pay Sinclair a visit later. Get him to help me figure it out..." Scorpia huffs.
"I guess, I'm going to go for a walk. I'll talk to you later." Erlöser gets up and stretches lightly before exiting the room.
Somwhere along the apartment complex buildings of Canterlot was one specifically where a pure white Pegasus stallion with ice blue eyes, a pitch black mane and tail with ice blue highlights wearing a plain white t-shirt and jeans combined with an apron is cooking breakfast. Musing over the box and its instructions, he continues to attempt to make pancakes which he places on two separate plates till they stack to five. He then begins to adorn the left stack with cut strawberries, blueberries, maple syrup and a sprinkling of sugar, meanwhile, on the right stack he simply places a small square of butter which begins to melt across and slide down the stack.
As he finished the plates, the stallion heard a light thud from the living room followed by a mare's voice. "Breakfast smells good~"
"I hope so, took me long enough to get it right this morning." He states checking over the plates and their contents before feeling happy with his work.
"I don't know how much you wasted, nor do I really care right now. I smell pancakes. Bring the pancakes, servant." The voice states expectantly.
"Yes, your majesty." The stallion states in response before grabbing two forks and the plates as he walks through the archway from the kitchen into the living room section of the apartment.
The living room is fairly simple with two sofas in an L shape with a large coffee table in front of them. On the wall, directly in line with the kitchen archway is a 75-inch tv. To the right of the room is a set of stairs leading up to a balcony area which leads to another room. Underneath the balcony, hugging the right wall is a hallway which leads other places. The stallion sets down both plates on the coffee table with the forks before slipping out of his apron. Sighing lightly, he looks to his left at the mare lying on the sofa he heard make the thud earlier. The mare in question is a pure white pegasus. Her mane and tail are a light pink with sea-foam green highlights. She's wearing a light grey t-shirt and a pair of pink pyjama pants adorned with quills.
"Making room for me to sit with you?" The stallion asks as he pokes her thigh gently.
The mare sits up and glares at him for a moment before scooting to the left a little. "Fine... But only because you made pancakes."
He takes his seat beside her before retrieving his pancakes to begin eating. "Did you sleep well? You seem a little edgy this morning."
"What I call playful, you call edgy?" She asks, before flicking his ear. She then gets her plate and takes a bite.
"You know I still have trouble picking out some things. I hope the pancakes are alright, I used half a box to get it right then used the remaining box and a half to make five thick, fluffy pancakes each." The stallion states as he takes a mouthful with syrup and a strawberry.
"If you used as much as you did and took as long as you likely did, they'd better be good, no?" She replied before taking another bite. "And didn't burn the apartment down this time. Good job, Frozen." She stated, taking another bite before patting his head.
"I haven't burnt anything in this apartment yet... Our old place had a terrible rating anyway. I figured I'd try to cook breakfast as you normally do the majority of the cooking, Aurora." Frozen states as he grumbles around a mouthful of strawberry.
"Well, you chose pancakes. Can't go wrong there. Normally. And I do the cooking, generally, because of the fact that we're currently in an apartment." After pausing for a moment she looked to Frozen, "You model Purity after yourself?"
Frozen deadpans at the mare before sighing deeply. "Just because I can't cook most things doesn't mean I modelled a character on that fact alone..."
"Just curious. You burned our home trying to cook. She nearly poisoned her party trying to cook... Maybe not her entire character, but at least that one characteristic."Aurora states pointing her fork at Frozen.
"If you say so, dear. Do you have anything on your agenda for today?" Frozen asks offering Aurora a fork of pancake with a strawberry, syrup and sugar on it.
Aurora takes the offer, and uses the chewing time to think before replying. "Not sure, yet. Things are getting a little crazy around, lately. But that could mean more fun. It could also mean far too much danger for those of us without blood abilities. So... I don't know. Nothing yet. You have something in mind?"
"The state of the city does have me worrying a lot about you lately... As for the agenda, I just need to drop into the editor to deliver the first draft of my latest work before I planned to pick us up something for lunch. Then when home again there was nothing I really had in mind besides spending time with you." Frozen states before nuzzling the mare gently.
Aurora returns the nuzzle as she replies. "If you're worrying and planning on coming back before too long, I'll just stay put. May get some more sleep so that I'm not so 'edgy' when you get back."
"I didn't mean you were being edgy... You know I like it when my mare is playful. I only worry so much because I don't know what I'd do if I lost you." Frozen shuffles a little closer to Aurora, giving her a soft kiss.
"Well, on the off chance that that should happen, Celestia forbid, I only hope you manage to turn that pain into inspiration for a great tale." Aurora states, poking Frozen's nose. "Luckily, we live in Canterlot and not Manehattan..."
"That's if I can write past all the alcohol, plus it'd be a very depressing tale. Yeah... I'm quite thankful I moved us, despite your hesitance at this place to begin with." Frozen states as he continues his pancakes.
Aurora gave a light laugh before replying, "I'm from the Crystal Empire. You could have moved us anywhere and I would have been hesitant."
"I suppose, but I'm happy you grew to like our new home. I'm slightly thankful I brought it on gut feeling given the recent news about the Crystal Empire..." Frozen sighs lightly before nuzzling the mare beside him.
"And Manehattan..." Aurora replies, returning the nuzzle. "The Kansen are getting increasingly more aggressive."
"Which is why I worry about you and others who are just normal like us. Always getting caught in the crossfire between the Kansen and the government." Frozen finishes his pancakes before putting his plate gently on the coffee table.
Aurora places her plate down before lying down with her head in Frozen's lap. "While that's true, why worry? It's not like you can do anything. You're just an author. Best to leave that to Bullet."
Frozen runs his fingers gently through Aurora's mane thinking for a moment.
"I suppose... We have yet to have a reason to use what Silver generously 'lost' for us. I worry because I would like us to live long enough for me to marry my beautiful mare, but I will try to stress less about it." Frozen states closing his eyes briefly.
"Don't go getting yourself killed out there and we'll make it to that day."
Leaning down, Frozen gently nuzzles Aurora while breathing softly.
"I'll try my best, I don't want to make promises I might not be able to keep given our world. Is it bad of me if I say I would rather stay here with you than take my work down to the office?" Frozen asks looking into her eyes.
"Bad? No, of course not." She laughed as she sat back up. "But it does still need to be done."
"I suppose, want anything specific for lunch? I can make a stop on my way back." Frozen asks standing up before stretching.
"Not particularly. Just make sure you don't run into any crazy Kansen. Your death isn't exactly on my wish list." She replied, stroking her ring with her thumb.
"I'll try, don't worry. Shall I just get our regular lunches or would you like me to make something when I get back?" Frozen collects a nearby brown package to put into a messenger bag that he puts on.
"You got lucky with the pancakes. Don't push it, please." Aurora replied, laying back down.
"Okay, okay, I'll just pick up the regular orders we have. See you soon, I love you." Frozen leans down to give Aurora a soft kiss.
Aurora returned the kiss before replying. "Love you, too. Now go. Get that draft turned in. And steer clear of crazy Kansen."
"Yes, love." Frozen states in compliance, grabbing his black long coat before leaving out the door.
The Canterlot streets nearby the apartment complexes are fairly busy with more bustling traffic than normal given recent events. Many heading towards the commercial areas to either buy supplies or drink their sorrows away. Narrowly weaving through said traffic, Frozen Quill hands out 'apologises' and 'excuse me's' while navigating his way through the ocean of people. Tripping slightly and stumbling forward the stallion is soon to fall over in his haste and the result sees his messenger bag flung from his person. It bounces and tumbles all the way across the street he'd hope to cross.
Feeling something bump against his leg, Scorpia looked down to see the bag. Picking it up he looked around for the owner whilst clutching his chest. "Still not quite there, yet, I guess... Now who-" He stopped, noticing Frozen on the ground. "Of course." He began navigating through the crowd over to him.
Sitting up onto his knees, Frozen rubs the back of his head before noticing his bag missing. "Shit... I can't lose all that work, come on." He begins looking around frantically, eventually standing up and looking a tad pale at the realisation he can't see his bag.
Upon reaching him Scorpia taps the back of his shoulder. "I have something that I'm fairly certain belongs to you."
Turning to face the source of the tap, Frozen stares at Scorpia. "Hmm? Ah there it is. Thank you for finding my bag, you have no idea how much work you saved for me just now." Frozen happily accepts his bag and puts it firmly on himself, unwilling to part with it again.
Scorpia laughs a bit, shaking his head. "I've more of an idea than you could know. Considering everything that's happening lately, I hope this one's good." Scorpia stated, pointing to the bag.
Frozen raises an eyebrow slightly in confusion. "Your choice words have me intrigued given you know not what I carry..." At that moment it begins spitting slightly of rain. "Perhaps you would let me treat you for finding my bag? There is a 'Sunbucks' nearby."
"Not one for coffee, but I could certainly use a rest... As well as getting out before a downpour." Scorpia replies, putting his hand over his bandaged wound.
"Either way, I'd like you to join me." Frozen states as he begins towards the before mentioned nearby establishment.
Leading Scorpia along, he tales him inside and secures them a window booth just as it begins raining in earnest. "It's likely a good thing you happened along when you did, this bag is sturdy, however, it's not so good in heavy rain. I can only imagine my fiancee would be a bit depressed if I lost my work, especially as she helps me a lot with it." Frozen sighs and begins looking through a nearby menu.
"Fiancée?" Scorpia asked, looking out the window.
"Mhmm, though I'm surprised I managed to ask her, even more she said yes. Silver was even more surprised given he thought we were just living together as authors, which honestly is how it started." Frozen sighs lightly before a cute, lime green Unicorn mare with aquamarine eyes and a pale yellow mane takes his order for a strong coffee.
Scorpia glances over, before returning his gaze to the rain. "'Together as authors'? You and Aurora already get that far here?"
Frozen once again gives Scorpia an odd look, not sure what to make of his words. "You speak very odd... We've been living together for a while I suppose. We started dating but didn't really feel the need to really tell anypony. I then might have bought us an apartment here in the capital. She was... Less than thrilled with the sudden news." Frozen smiles a little to himself.
Scorpia chuckles in response. "I can imagine."
"However, I had a gut feeling about the place... Given the most recent news about Manehattan, where I used to live and the Crystal Empire, where she used to live... I can't help but feel I made the right choice." Frozen explains as the waitress comes back with his coffee, asking if Scorpia wanted anything.
He turned a moment to look at the mare and politely decline before looking back out the window. "I won't dismiss that. I can't say I've been looking at the news lately... Though, as far as I can tell nothing bad has happened here, yet."
"I know it will... The government is here, this is ground zero for where the war between Kansen and Pathogen is fought in the background while we normal ponies are left in the middle..." Frozen adds his extras to the coffee before sipping it slowly.
"We've thought about it before, but it was a short lived idea. We'd have to start over again from what we managed to build here. Friends, the editor we use. She took a little while getting used to it here. I, personally, wouldn't want to do it to her again and she is adamant she doesn't want to move. I can't tell you how much I've worried and stressed about when a day would be our last or... What day would be hers." Frozen takes a deep breath before sighing. "Writing and Aurora seem to be my only outlets these days."
"Silly mare was always quite stubborn... Guess you're lucky she is." Scorpia replied, turning his attention to Frozen.
"She'd have to be to put up with me..." Frozen retrieves the package of his work from the messenger bag. "Perhaps you'd want a gander at what you saved?"
"I'll give you that, but I was more referring to her stubbornness to stay in the empire all that time ago. Anyway, what's this tale tell?" Scorpia asked, accepting the draft.
"Mainly a mismatched band of utter misfits and outcasts recruited by a princess to accompany her court wizard on a mission to a far away land. It's a work in progress, but Aurora seems to quite like it and finds it highly amusing in many places." Frozen explains sipping more coffee.
After spending a few minutes to get through the first few chapters he closes it, sets it down, and looks to Frozen. "Misfits is an understatement. Haven't gotten through too much of it, but I'm not expecting most of them to survive. Seems fine so far."
"That's kinda the point of the story though it'll be interesting to see who does. It's strange... Aurora is normally the only pony besides our editor who sees my drafts. Though I have to say some of your choice wording confuses me, or perhaps it intrigues me for use of a better term." Frozen stares at Scorpia.
"Speaking of what exactly?" Scorpia asked, returning his gaze out the window.
"How you speak with confidence about things to do with Aurora. Despite me never mentioning her race or much else about her personality. 'You and Aurora already get that far here', implying you're not a local, but at the same time implying something many would call stupid." Frozen puts his draft away.
Scorpia's ears shoot up as he turns his attention back to Frozen. "I... Don't even know how to begin to explain any of that..."
"By the looks of it, you didn't even know you gave that much away. To be quite honest, I don't think you really need to explain anything. I doubt a normal pony would even give it much thought, but... As I'm sure my beloved would agree, writers tend to be an imaginative bunch." Frozen looks out the window as the rain slowly dies down.
"Best I can possibly say is..." He paused to think for a moment. "Multiverse Theory? I actually really have no idea."
"Hmm with as much intrigue as you have, maybe you'd be able to write your own story one day. I hope we're around long enough to read it if you do..." Frozen idly comments as he stares at the dying rain.
"Normally I'd question that kind of worry, but with Kansen around... It's an understandable worry. Besides, you're the authors. Not me."
"Perhaps... It was nice to sit and talk. The rain can be quite soothing, especially when snuggled up with somepony you care deeply for." Frozen finishes his coffee while staring out the window.
"A chat with the one pony so far that, at least here, doesn't seem to change from universe to universe. And while that seems like a nice thought, haven't you something to deliver first, Frozen?" Scorpia asks, motioning to the bag beside Frozen.
"There you are, what are you doing walking around?" Erlöser walks over to them and sighs at Scorpia.
Scorpia motions to Frozen before replying. "Having a chat with a friend?"
"What friend?" Erlöser asks. As Scorpia turns back to Frozen he finds the seat opposite him empty with only the coffee cup and a few bits left behind.
"Sometimes I hate that colt... Someone I know from the other universe... This version isn't very different... He thought I was a normal and didn't seem to pay much attention to this hole in my cloak and chest." Scorpia replied, pointing. "Speaking of, think we can head to Rarity's? I need a change."
Erlöser sighs deeply. "Yeah, let's go before you end up wandering off again."
"Did you really expect me to stay in a hospital bed?" Scorpia asked, getting up and opening the door for them to leave.
"It was mostly wishful thinking..." Erlöser sighs deeply as they exit the café.
Author's Note
A chapter much delayed but honestly forgot I had completed before my proofreader's laptop died on him. Which is detailed in a blog post he did on my profile, that said any further updates are on hold till he is able to properly help me again so I'd ask everyone who still reads this to bear with us. See you guys next time.
The blood red moon hangs high over the expanded and upgraded city of Canterlot. On the empty streets below the rooftops of the city a lone, Cauliflower blue Pegasus with blood red eyes who has a burgundy mane and tail with blood red highlights is found walking. His mane is short and a little untidy. He wears a short black jacket and grey shirt with a pair of long blue jeans. The colt stops briefly to look up at the moon and sigh deeply. He then looks around at the night time city which appears more ominous than during the day.
"Why did it have to be this way..? Mother... Father... I'm tired of this shit..." The colt mumbles to himself.
"Excuse me, can you help me with something?" A male voice is heard to the colt's side.
As the colt turns to face the voice his face is impacted with a large fist which sends him flying down the alleyway behind him. The colt lands on the floor and spits out blood beside him before looking at his attacker. The assailant is a very buff looking stallion, his coat is brown, mane and tail a pitch black. The stallion's eyes are a hungry blood red.
"You see I'm very hungry and I need your blood... You don't have a choice in this matter so it's best you just give up and die..." The stallion states as he approaches the colt.
"Go ahead... I've got nothing to live for anyway... Parents died, friends abandoned me... If you're going to kill me stop talking and do it!" The colt yells before he is picked up by the throat.
"You're a very vocal little shit for a dead pony... Just shut the fuck up and let this happen, I might make it quick!" The stallion slams the colt into the wall. He then raises up his fist level with the colt's head. On the stallion's arm forms a large, sharp-looking, sinister blade which appears to be made of blood. The colt's eyes widen as he realises what the stallion is.
"Ketsueki Kansen... I was never going to survive either way... This is truly it..." The colts eyes become hollow and void of any hope.
"Are you bucking stupid, kid?!" A female voice is heard from above.
The stallion's arm, which is holding the colt against the wall, is suddenly cut clean off and the colt flung further down the alley away from him. In front of the colt stands a mare with a light blue coat, purple eyes and a rainbow coloured mane and tail. She wears a pair of shorts with a waist length track suit jacket and a short tank top which only covers half her stomach. She is chewing on a toothpick.
"You're a flipping moron aren't you... Throwing your life away to a lowlife Ketsueki Kansen like this joker... If you're going to die at all, least make it bucking worth it and not this pitiful excuse of an end." The mare harshly states as she looks back at the colt.
The colts eyes return to normal and he stares at the mare before him, unafraid of the brute before them. Within her eyes the colt can see the spark of life he hasn't felt since the death of his parents years ago. The stallion screams in pain holding the shoulder of his severed arm.
"Rainbow Dash you fucking punk! What business does an A-rank Ketsueki Kansen have in this dump! Stay outta my way!" The stallion begins to charge at Rainbow Dash.
Rainbow dash smirks and her eyes turn a more focused blood red compared to the stallions. She then flips a pocket knife out of her track suit jacket pocket and cuts both her hands before dropping the knife. "My business..? A G-rank doesn't need to know..." Blood begins to drip down Rainbow Dash's fingers, the blood begins to flow in her hand and coats it like a thick glove of blood. Rainbow Dash then sprints off the spot and appears in front of the charging stallion within seconds. The stallions eyes widen as Rainbow Dash slams her fist with far more increased speed and force into the stomach of the stallion, plunging up to half of her arm within him. She then rips the heart of the stallion clean out of his body making him cough and spurt up blood. He soon falls to his knees and collapses dead. Rainbow Dash crushes the heart and throws it aside before walking back to the colt and crouching down in front of him.
"Look at this mess I had to make for you... Lucky you're cute, else I'd have to rip your heart out as well... Oh?" Rainbow Dash looks at the flank of the colt to see it's blank. "Hmm... Although, if you're not a Ketsueki Kansen I might have to kill you anyway... You know what I truly am now so it makes sense..." Rainbow Dash grabs the chin of the colt and lifts his head up so his eyes meet hers. Rainbow Dash's eyes are now a more focused, oddly comforting blood red than her purple eyes from before.
"Your eyes... They are very beautiful..." The colt continues to stare at Rainbow Dash who thinks for a moment about his compliment towards her.
"You don't want to make this choice easy for me do ya... I can't let you live if you know... It's just how it works I'm afraid..." Rainbow Dash opens the colts mouth by placing her thumb inside his mouth and lowering his jaw. "Your name is... Erlöser, right? I've seen you around the video game store a few times."
Erlöser can see that Rainbow Dash's blood gloves has gone back to liquid and most of the blood used went back into her hands. Her cuts have also healed because of this. He can taste a little bit of blood enter his mouth from Rainbow Dash's thumb. The blood finds it's way to his throat and he unknowingly swallows it. Suddenly a hard pulse can be felt all over and inside his body. Erlöser's eyes widen as an immense pain begins to well up inside him and a pounding beat resounds in his head. Rainbow Dash stands up and backs off slightly looking at Erlöser confused as he falls to his side on the floor holding his stomach.
"What the bucking hell is wrong with you now?! I just had to save you from that great lug, what could possibly come next?!" Rainbow Dash yells at Erlöser who only stares at her.
Erlöser's eyes begin to flicker from his normal blood red to a darker more sinister deep glowing red. 'Surrender... Accept the calling within you and become strong... Accept the calling Erlöser... The calling... Of the blood!' Erlöser can hear a voice echo throughout his head as he suddenly kneels upright and spreads his arms out. When he does so a spray of blood springs forth out of his back from thousands of tiny holes made by the forced blood. The sprayed blood then forms a grainy dragon behind him which snarls and growls viciously. Rainbow Dash's eyes widen and the toothpick drops from her mouth as she stands completely still, stuck in place by the sight of the blood dragon.
"T-that's bucking impossible! There is no way in all of Equestria..." Rainbow Dash mutters to herself.
The blood dragon looks down at Erlöser and sniffs him a few times before raising its head into the air and letting out an almighty roar of dominance and control. The blood dragon then disperses back into the blood spray and all of it re-enters Erlöser's body. The tiny holes all heal up and he collapses onto the floor in front of Rainbow Dash who stares at him in shock. A few droplets can be seen before it starts to rain and thunder heavily from the sudden storm.
"What have you gotten me into kid... Damn moron..." Rainbow Dash crouches down and brushes Erlöser's mane away from his face as she stares at him with intrigued and soft purple eyes again.
In the early hours of the morning when the sun comes up...
Erlöser weakly opens his eyes and looks around to find he is in a room unfamiliar to him. The room is dimly illuminated by the sparse sunlight let in by the curtains. Looking around he can see the room is pretty average, with a desk beside the door with a lamp on it, a normal double bed which is almost against the wall to his right by the window, but has a decent gap to allow someone to get out of the bed. The walls are painted a light blue and a few posters can be seen on the wall facing Erlöser. A bookshelf holding an assortment of Daring Do books and other adventure novels sits on the far right of the back poster wall. Erlöser sighs deeply before closing his eyes again and tries to move, but he can feel himself stopped by something... Squishy? Opening his eyes and looking to his right in the bed can be seen the rainbow haired Pegasus from the previous night.
"So, it wasn't a dream..." Erlöser mumbles to himself before getting flashbacks of what happened with the stallion and his own blood.
Rainbow Dash groans slightly and stirs in her sleep making her snuggle closer to Erlöser. She wears a light blue long sleeved button shirt which only stops quarter down her thighs and a pair of light blue panties. Rainbow Dash's new position reveals that she doesn't wear a bra to bed and a distinct amount of cleavage is now shown. Erlöser blushes slightly wondering how he got himself into this position before a sudden knock at the door wakes up Rainbow Dash. She pushes herself up and yawns cutely before wiping her eyes and coming face to face with an awake Erlöser.
"It's about time you woke up... I had to carry you here all the way from that bucking alley..." Rainbow Dash states, oblivious to her current attire.
Rainbow Dash gets up and goes to the door to open it. A female Unicorn in her mid twenties is standing in the door way. Her coat is pure white, her mane and tail a navy blue with light blue highlights. She wears a slightly tight, pure white tank top that doesn't cover her whole stomach which has a black eighth note on the front, an unzipped grey hoodie, slightly baggy light blue trousers and pure white sneakers. On her face is a pair of purple shades that have a black frame and around her neck are a pair of headphones which have the same eighth note on them.
"You're up earlier than normal Rainbow. Having some fun with our new resident?" The Unicorn chuckles leaning against the doorway.
Rainbow blushes a little but shakes of the Unicorn's taunt. "Even if I was you wouldn't hear about it... Besides, you have no room to mock me as you are still single as well." Rainbow Dash folds her arms defiantly.
"Ouch, that stings Rainbow. Looking at him he doesn't look like what the manager described him to be... You sure he manifested the blood dragon? It could of been a shark or something..." The Unicorn eyes up Erlöser who is now sitting on the edge of the bed.
"Vinyl... I know what I saw. It was a huge blood dragon exactly like the one depicted in the SSS rank stories we were told by the manager..." Rainbow Dash's voice sounds shaky as she recalls what she saw.
Vinyl scratch looks sceptical about Erlöser but shakes her head. "The boss is waiting in the break room for you and the kid. I need to get back to the store downstairs." Vinyl Scratch informs Rainbow Dash as she puts on her headphones and leaves.
After Rainbow Dash got dressed and Erlöser was lent some fresh clothes, she takes him to the break room just a little way down the hall from her room. Rainbow Dash opens the door and enters the room with Erlöser. Sitting on the middle seat of a three seater sofa opposite the door is a middle aged colt seemingly in his mid twenties. His coat is a mid tone grey, his mane and tail have the same style as Vinyl's but is a dark purple with mid grey highlights, his eyes are also a dark purple. He wears a dark purple T-shirt, a waist length black jacket, dark purple jeans and purple sneakers. Around his neck is a pair of headphones similar to Vinyl's but are purple with a black eighth note on them.
"I brought him Larvali, the kid I saved last night..." Rainbow Dash leads Erlöser into the room and sits him in the armchair opposite the sofa separated by a coffee table.
Larvali looks Erlöser up and down before stroking his chin. "He does look a bit different than I imagined him to be... But that scent is unmistakeable... That is the same scent from all those years ago when I met the elder dragon wielder. He was a fearsome man, even now his death shrouded in mystery. If you are indeed his son, it would explain why Rainbow's blood awoke the dragon within you. You see Ketsueki Kansen work off the blood type system. We can drink the blood of any type to sustain us, however, in order for a Ketsueki Kansen's abilities to awake or enhance we can only take blood using the system such as follows." Larvali begins to explain how Ketsueki Kansen can gain or enhance abilities.
The lecture takes little over an hour with Erlöser nodding and paying attention to every detail. "So because I'm O- blood type and Rainbow Dash is also O- my blood reacted to her's and activated... This would explain why I feel sick all the time. I don't drink blood at all unless it's with rare steaks and such." Erlöser sighs deeply before looking at Larvali.
"Well, for your own safety I recommend you stay with us from now on. Your blood's display of dominance last night will have notified every Ketsueki Kansen and Pathogen government agent in Canterlot... You will live with Rainbow for now till you get settled. She can show you around and be your mentor." Larvali stands up and goes to the window looking over the street below.
"Thank you. I hope to be of some use here, so I'm not wasted space..." Erlöser states as he exits the room with Rainbow Dash.
Rainbow Dash stops Erlöser in the hallway. "Don't get any ideas staying with me... We have already moved your stuff from your apartment to here so you don't need to go back." Rainbow Dash begins walking to go down some steps leading to behind the counter of the video game store.
Behind the counter is Vinyl Scratch who is sitting on a chair with her headphones on and music playing loud. Sparse customers can be seen around the store looking over games for various platforms. Rainbow Dash gently pins a badge on Erlöser saying his name and 'store clerk' above it.
"Your job is so simple even a filly could do it... Just walk around and help people out who need it. I'll be out there as well, so ask me if you don't know anything. You have been here a few times and bought games, so... I imagine you know where a lot of stuff is. I'll talk to you when you need help or it's break time." Rainbow Dash finishes explaining before pushing Erlöser out onto the floor.
After several hours of selling games to a few customers Rainbow Dash walks over to Erlöser and taps his shoulder making him turn around. "It's the end of our shift now Erlöser, we need to go to the store and get everything for dinner. Our rooms here are basically apartments so we have a bedroom, bathroom, and an onset kitchen to the living room." Rainbow Dash takes off their badges and throws them on the counter before leaving with Erlöser.
As the pair walk down the street towards the store Rainbow Dash walks beside Erlöser with her hands in her tracksuit jacket pockets. It appears to be mid afternoon with few people walking around besides them. "Listen up, I'm only going to explain this once okay..? Our rank system is based off two things. One, what we are able to do with our blood and two, what level we are able to wield it at which determines our power. I'm an A rank, however, I mainly use a pair of hardened blood gloves to fight with. Along with my blood, being a Pegasus gives me a greater increase in speed compared to Earth ponies or Unicorns. Larvali is able to replicate any weapon he has seen in video games with ease. His level of blood control earns him a SSS rank among the Ketsueki Kansen." Rainbow Dash explains as she skips a few paces in front of Erlöser.
The two reach the store and enter, grabbing baskets. Rainbow Dash leads Erlöser around the store getting what they need plus other snacks. They take the stuff to the counter and Rainbow Dash looks around to see nobody else in the store. The female store clerk smiles at Rainbow Dash as she checks their items for sale.
"Nice to see you well Rainbow. Got yourself a boyfriend I see?" The clerk jokes.
"Cut it out... He is just an understudy for our store and a newly awoken..." Rainbow tries not to blush.
"Ah I see, so he is the one I've been hearing about. The possible heir to the SSS+ dragon blood. It's a pleasure to meet you." The clerk smiles at Erlöser.
"The pleasure is mine..." Erlöser blushes. Not used to normal interaction.
"I'm running low on supply, I don't suppose you have any in?" Rainbow Dash asks the clerk who enters the room in the back and comes out with a brown paper bag. She then places it in their shopping bags and smiles at Rainbow Dash.
"Thank you. It's been nice talking, but we should get back." Rainbow Dash waves to the clerk before leaving the store with Erlöser.
They begin to walk back to the video game store. When halfway, Erlöser looks at Rainbow Dash awkwardly, unsure how to voice his concern. "Rainbow Dash... What is going on? I hardly have a clue as to what I'm meant to do next... I'd given up all hope and was willing to die back in that alley last night. I had nothing before this... I never knew about my mother and father and now I learn my father was some legendary SSS rank Ketsueki Kansen... What kind of fantasy bullshit is this?!" Erlöser screams at Rainbow Dash who punches him square in the face. Erlöser drops the shopping bags he is carrying and flies into the alleyway to their right.
Rainbow Dash drops her own shopping bags and walks after Erlöser. Once caught up she picks him up by the throat and pins him with ease against the nearby wall. "Why do you get to complain so bucking much, huh? What makes you so god damn special? So what? You have some kinda 'dragon blood', but you're nothing but a little bitch who was about to die to a bucking G rank!" Rainbow Dash throws Erlöser into the opposite alley wall hard, making him cough up blood. She then gets out her pocket knife and turns her eyes the same focused blood red from before. Rainbow Dash cuts her hands and covers her hands in blood before it hardens from its liquid form. Crouching down she lifts Erlöser up by placing her index finger and middle finger under his chin before standing back up. Rainbow Dash now holds Erlöser up against the wall using only two fingers under his chin. "I don't have an excuse for why I saved you... Maybe it was because I thought you were cute... Nobody gives a shit why I did what I did. My business is my own... But don't you dare make a fuss and cop out on me again like that. If your going to just throw your life away, then fine... It belongs to me now." Rainbow states to Erlöser who looks surprised and shocked.
Rainbow Dash drops Erlöser, so he falls into a sitting position. She then sighs deeply and crouches down to meet his eye level. "What do you mean 'it belongs to me now'?" Erlöser rubs his chin before Rainbow Dash places her hand on his face and strokes his cheek gently.
"Get used to it... Until you can survive on your own, your ass is mine, understand..? The manager said I'm your mentor... I will beat you into shape even if I have to buck you a few times to do it. Lets just head back and cook dinner, I'm bloody starving..." Rainbow Dash states before standing up and letting her blood flow back into her hands. Her eyes also return to their normal purple colour. Rainbow Dash picks up her shopping bags and Erlöser does the same after standing up.
"I don't get all this stuff... The blood and just everything else... However, its not like I have anything to go back to... if anything I can make a new life as what I truly am and leave my old broken self behind." Erlöser hopefully and shyly states to Rainbow Dash.
Rainbow Dash laughs and pats Erlöser on the shoulder a few times. "One step at a time kid. You're still just a weak little shit..." Rainbow Dash suddenly kisses Erlöser which makes his eyes widen and his heart beats faster. After a few seconds, which seem like minutes, Rainbow Dash lets go and brings her mouth up to Erlöser's ear before whispering. "For now however... You're my weak little shit..." These words chilled Erlöser's blood and sent a pleasant shiver up his spine as Rainbow Dash skips on ahead of them.
Erlöser stares in Rainbow Dash's direction and blinks a few times before looking up into the sky at the setting sun. "Things can never be the same can they..?" Erlöser mumbles to himself.
"No... But the future, least for now, seems brighter than before... Don't you agree?" An unknown, but familiar voice states to Erlöser who keeps looking up into the sky.
"Yeah..." Erlöser sighs deeply before sprinting to catch up with Rainbow Dash.
Author's Note
Well this is an entirely random idea using a combination of the two anime I mentioned in the description. I'm unsure where this will go but between me and my co-author a lot of crazy stuff has already popped up.
The Government Strikes Back
It's now been a full month since the alleyway incident. The sun hangs high in the sky as Princess Luna is walking along a corridor on the top level of the large government building that replaced the castle many years ago. Princess Luna wears an outfit similar to Jihl Nabaat in Final Fantasy XIII. The differences being that Princess Luna's outfit has midnight blue for the green and black for the white. Also she doesn't wear the tie or gloves and military grade slim boots instead of heels. The gold on her outfit is removed as well. Princess Luna eventually reaches a pair of double doors and pushes her way into the conference room beyond them. The conference room has rows of joint desks with chairs and a large screen at the front of the room. Princess Luna takes her place at the front of the room behind a similar desk and looks out across the room wearing a serious expression.
"You all know why you are here... Pathogen... The best of the best, the most elite the government has to offer. Alas despite this, in the last month we have lost two of our own alongside the two from the normal government... This is most unacceptable and I will not tolerate further failure... You are currently all that remains." Luna looks out across the room at each agent individually and takes a deep breath. "Agent one, Applejack... Boasting unnatural Earth Pony strength and a very... Unorthodox service record in the Canterlot army. You were recruited because of your ability to do what is needed and do it without hesitation."
Applejack has her hoofs up on the desk as she is leaning back in her chair. She smiles and tips her hat. "Thank you, Princess Luna, I wont disappoint ya." Applejack states with confidence.
"Agent two, the spirit of chaos, Discord... Given your previous actions against the crown and your level of skill with chaos magic... My sister and I saw fit to grant you a second chance and recruit you into Pathogen. I do hope we won't have to put you away again..." Princess Luna looks at Discord who is nodding rapidly then changes it to a serious shake.
"Dear princess, I'd never dream of going back into that tasteless prison... I will do my best for the government and strike down thy enemies without mercy. Although a lot has changed since I was put away it seems... Especially these outfits..." Discord looks at his government Pathogen outfit and makes a 'ugh' sound.
"Agent three, Octavia.... One of our most esteemed agents and who has a distinguished service record. The Kansen know her as... 'The Final requiem'... Mainly because any Kansen who has heard her song never lives long afterwards. I trust you will preform better than the other two." Princess Luna smiles at Octavia knowing she excels at her job.
"I will continue to do as I have always done, Princess Luna. To clean up the streets of the filthy Kansen and keep our citizens safe." Octavia puts on a false smile for everyone.
"Agent four... Silver Bullet... Hmm?" Princess Luna looks around the room at everyone but can't seem to find the pony she is looking for. She sighs deeply before looking at Twilight Sparkle.
"I do believe Silver Bullet had a previous arrangement which he had to attend to. Something about meeting an important friend for lunch, I think." Twilight Sparkle rubs her forehead and sighs deeply.
"Well, all that's left is agents five and six. Trixie and Twilight Sparkle who form the magical fighting duo known to the Kansen world as... 'The Mystical Manipulation Duo'... I trust you both to continue your duty as you have been and further eliminate the Kansen threat." Luna finishes the introductions.
"Of course, it's only to be expected from the great and powerful Trixie." Trixie boasts while looking very smug.
"We will do our best, your highness." Twilight Sparkle nods firmly at the princess trying to make up for Trixie's arrogance.
Luna takes a deep breath and looks out among the agents. "You should already know, but I will tell you all now... We have lost agents Spike and Sheriff Silverstar. The normal government have lost Braeburn and Sunset Shimmer... They died because they were too weak compared to their opponents. I wont tolerate any more failures from any of you... Get stronger so this embarrassment doesn't happen again. On the up note we are gaining a new Pathogen agent today... The labs have completed her development and integration process deeming her worthy of field testing." Luna begins to explain.
Applejack sits normally and looks intrigued. "Princess Luna, is that the 'bio-weapon' we have been hearing rumours about?"
"Indeed it is... Most likely whatever you have heard is all true... Her details will be explained soon, for now simply treat her as another member of Pathogen. I believe this concludes our meeting, you are all dismissed." Luna finishes her explanation.
Everyone stands up and salutes Princess Luna before leaving the room at their own pace. Princess Luna sighs before leaving the meeting room and heading for the R&D department.
Meanwhile in the R&D science lab a creepy looking male pony is wearing a buttoned up pure white lab coat, glasses and black trousers. He is looking over six monitor screens on a computer terminal beside a large canister. The canister is filled with a light blue liquid and within that liquid is a middle aged naked mare. The mares coat is greyish-white while her tail and mane are a dark purple. On her back are, folded in, slightly larger than normal bat pony wings.
"Doctor Sinclair... I trust everything is going according to your projections?" Princess Luna suddenly appears and stands beside the doctor.
"Oh quite, she has shown a great amount of will power and determination during the intense experiments. I gave her the option between normal and intense... We all knew what the experiments entailed and that they would not be without a great deal of pain no matter the route. However, she didn't pass out once... no matter how much pain she was in she carried on... Truly the most remarkable specimen I've had the pleasure of working on." Doctor Sinclair smiles and chuckles to himself.
"I see... It brings me some reassurance that she survived... Were she not so determined I would have stopped her. At least now we have a trump card against the Kansen and can even up the playing field a great deal... Is she ready for release?" Princess Luna asks looking at the monitors.
Doctor Sinclair begins typing on the keyboard of the terminal before standing back slightly. "Oh, I was waiting for your majesty to arrive so she could release the good captain herself. Seems only fitting don't you think, your highness?" Doctor Sinclair snickers slightly and looks at Princess Luna.
"You are indeed a crazy, strange and scary pony... However, I cannot argue with results... Also, thank you for reserving the chance to release her to me." Princess Luna steps in front of the terminal and enters a password before pressing enter.
The chamber suddenly springs to life with lights going on and off. The liquid inside the chamber begins to bubble slightly as it's drained out the bottom of the chamber. The front half of the chamber opens and the mare falls out forwards into Princess Luna who catches her and eases her onto the white floor. The mare groans a little before slowly opening her eyes to reveal they are yellow and have a slit for her pupil like other bat ponies.
"P-princess Luna..? Did I pass or am I dead?" The mare mumbles loud enough that Princess Luna can hear her.
"You passed, my dear. My esteemed captain of the night guard... It makes me beyond happy you survived those awful experiments..." Princess Luna holds the mare gently.
"While I'm sure this is a most joyful moment for you both, we still need to run through many simple tests to see that she is running at full speed. However, it is not my place to interrupt your highness during this emotional reunion so I will go prepare her equipment and clothes." Doctor Sinclair awkwardly shuffles out of the room so as not to disturb Princess Luna.
Princess Luna runs her fingers through the mare's mane softly. "You said before that should you survive you would like a new name to go with your new body modifications. Have you decided on that name?" Princess Luna prompts the mare who nods slightly.
"Hémolyse... That's the name I've picked for myself... Princess Luna." The mare closes her eyes clearly needing a bit of rest before her tests.
"Well then... Hémolyse... Welcome back to the royal night guard... Captain." Princess Luna gently embraces Hémolyse and strokes her mane to comfort her.
After a few hours rest and passing her physical tests Hémolyse made her way to the armoury to pick up her gear. Walking into the room wearing a outfit similar to Yaag Rosch from Final Fantasy XIII. Only differences are that she has no sabre on the front of her outfit and is wearing a helmet similar in style to that of a PSICOM Enforcer from Final Fantasy XIII. The colours of her helmet and outfit are in midnight blue for the main and black for the details. Hémolyse walks over to a mare cleaning and maintaining government issue highly modified 9mm pistols, which every grunt carry's for their side arm. The mare is wearing the standard uniform of a PSICOM Enforcer without her helmet. The mare's coat is a pale green while her mane and tail are a mocha brown with, her eyes are also a mocha brown colour. The mare casually smokes a cigarette while working, with an ashtray on the counter.
Hémolyse clears her throat before speaking, getting the mare's attention. "I'm here for the special package signed under the name 'Ivory Moon'... Princess Luna should of already informed you of my arrival." Hémolyse states as she looks around at the collection of weapons.
The mare takes out her cigarette and blows some smoke before tapping the ash on the end into the ashtray. She then places it back in her mouth and opens up the armoury inventory on her interactive computer screen, also on the counter. Taking her time she scrolls through the inventory before coming to the package Hémolyse mentioned.
"Yeah, I got the package and you say you're the one I've been waiting for all day to pick it up?" The mare eyes Hémolyse up and down and puts the pistol on the counter. "You look like one fine ass mare... I wouldn't mind going a round with you~" The mare jokes before looking at the night guard patch sewn into the left chest of Hémolyse's jacket. "The name is Iron Striker and I'd be your mare any day of the week... Night guard captain~" Iron Striker blows a playful kiss at Hémolyse before standing up and going through her shelves of stock.
"I'm flattered, you're not so bad looking yourself. However, I don't think you're quite my type..." Hémolyse looks at Iron Striker as she bends down to check lower shelves and eyes her plot. "That said... Spending so many months in a lab with nothing more then a creepy doctor, tons of pain and no way to relieve stress but your short lived dreams... One's own outlook on life, even principles are bound to change... That said I'm still not used to my altered body yet. Perhaps when I am I'll take you up on your offer." Hémolyse chuckles slightly enjoying her new freedom.
Iron Striker picks up a sealed slightly heavy looking long box and places it on the counter before sliding it through the slot in the fence around the counter. "Here it is... Contents contain as follows: One heavily modified revolver with belt hook-able speed loaders, one single edged muramasa blade with upgraded scabbard and finally one thin royal night guard captain dagger. Please check the contents to make sure all is in order and test out your gear on those target dummy's over there opposite this counter." Iron Striker explains pointing to where she means.
Hémolyse places her hand on the scanner to unlock the box. once it turns green she opens the box and gets out the revolver as well as the speed loaders to check them. "I will of course need ammunition for my revolver and speed loaders please." Hémolyse requests as Iron Striker places the boxes of ammo on the counter through the slot. Hémolyse then proceeds to load her revolver and speed loaders with standard ammunition. She then gets out the holster from the box and puts it around her waist so the gun is hidden in the right side of her jacket. After unloading all the current rounds into a target dummy from her standing position she reloads and holsters the revolver.
"I'm glad to see you like it. I only finished making that gun last month. The parts were not easy to make or find for it. I upgraded the chamber to hold eight bullets instead of six, added a long barrel for increased range and accuracy and finally made the grip very comfortable to work with and sits nicely in the hand. My finest work if I say so myself." Iron Striker sounds excited about the revolver as she explains it.
Hémolyse takes out a midnight blue handled muramasa blade from the box and inspects it. The wooden sheath is also a midnight blue colour with black string around the top, so Hémolyse can strap it to her waist. Hémolyse unsheaths the blade a little to see that it is very well made and looks extremely sharp. "This looks perfect... I'm happy you were able to restore the hilt for me and clean up the blade. I've no doubt this will fell many Kansen during its use." Hémolyse attaches the muramasa blade to her left side again inside her jacket like her revolver.
"I think that's everything you had to pick up... Please do come again whenever you require maintenance or... If you just want to see me. It does get lonely working down here all alone." Iron Striker pouts since Hémolyse is now leaving.
"I will think about it and I will certainly return should I need upkeep. Please excuse me for now." Hémolyse bows her head slightly in thanks before heading for the exit to the armoury.
Once night fell upon Canterlot, Hémolyse could be seen on the edge of the government building rooftop looking out at the city. A nice cool breeze flows past her and she sighs deeply before a female voice speaks into her ear from her helmet. "Something wrong Lady Hémolyse?" The female voice sounds mature and calm.
Hémolyse shakes her head. "No, I'm just glad to be out of that stuffy lab and get some proper fresh air... I have missed the outside world during my upgrade." Hémolyse folds her arms and looks up at the moon.
"Well, judging from my scan you have had many bio-logical enhancements. Your physical strength and muscle tissue were enhanced meaning you can run faster, jump higher and be overall much stronger. Your mind has been enhanced to allow greater reflexes and increase your awareness. Your eyes have been modified to enhance your sight. Other than that your mare parts are all in order." The female voice happily states.
Hémolyse laughs for a moment and breaths deeply. "You really haven't changed since I've been away... Victoria. I'm glad to have you back in all your full blunt glory." Hémolyse unfolds her arms and turns around on the spot before making herself fall backwards and start heading down the building. Halfway down she unfolds her bat wings, which are a bit larger than a normal bat ponies. Hémolyse then kicks away from the building and begins to fly towards Canterlot town square. Once she is close to the town square she lands on the street just before it and folds in her wings. Hémolyse then begins walking the rest of the distance looking around for any disturbances. After a few minutes of walking she stops in front of an alleyway and looks down it to see three odd male ponies kneeling by a corpse and appear to be devouring it. Hémolyse turns and begins walking down the alleyway.
"My lady, what music selection would you desire for tonight? Something rock or jazz based perhaps?" Victoria offers Hémolyse.
"Hmm something classical and soothing I think for tonight, if you please." Hémolyse happily requests.
Hémolyse stops several feet away from what she believes are three Kansen by the blade weapons on their arms made from blood. One of the colts looks up at Hémolyse and nudges the other colt just opposite him. "Hey Rio, who the heck is that?"
"Huh? What the buck are you talking about?" Rio turns to look at Hémolyse and sighs deeply. "Likely just somepony who walks around dressed like a creep... Ignore them Jasper." Rio firmly states before going back to the corpse.
"I don't think she is just some creep... Rio, Jasper... Look at the badge on her left chest, she is with the night guard." The more bulky looking stallion stands up and forms a large arm blade on his right arm. The other two stand up sharply in surprise.
"The night guard? You bucking with me?" Rio forms a smaller but equally sharp looking arm blade on his left arm while Jasper does the same but on his right arm.
Hémolyse stares at the three looking them up and down. "You three are without a doubt Ketsueki Kansen... Which means force is required for your elimination..." Hémolyse states firmly.
"My lady, I found something I think you will like. It is a vocal piece with accompanying instruments from a game franchise called 'Hitman'. It came highly recommended in the search I made." Victoria informs Hémolyse while showing her information on the inside screen of her visor.
"Hmm please play it for now then, I feel things will get messy in a few moments." Hémolyse states while smiling slightly to herself.
"With pleasure my lady, I shall play the music in just a moment." Victoria happily informs while putting a MP3 styled music bar in the top left of Hémolyse's visor, showing her the music piece name and duration.
"I'm not dying here like this! Tonight was meant to be like every other night! Why tonight!" Jasper panics and sprints towards Hémolyse who doesn't shift an inch.
Jasper reaches Hémolyse and lunges at her head using his arm blade, but Hémolyse slightly shifts her head to the side narrowly avoiding the blade and grabs Jaspers arm. She then uses her other hand and smashes up into his elbow joint, snapping his arm in two. Jasper screams out in pain, before he can recover Hémolyse slams her foot into his knee joint also snapping it in two like his arm. Jasper is brought to his knees and Hémolyse grabs his head with her free hand. "Rest in peace, little Kansen" Hémolyse twists Jasper's head with force snapping his neck and killing him, she then pushes him onto the floor and begins walking towards the other two.
"Rio, take her out! Don't die like a punk!" The stallion yells as Rio charges Hémolyse.
"I got this boss Sabre, don't worry!" Rio reaches Hémolyse but has no time to act as she grabs his shoulders and knees him hard in the stomach before using her right arm elbow to smash down onto his back with such force it snaps his spinal cord. Rio falls to his knees and then flat onto the floor lifeless. Hémolyse continues walking towards Sabre.
"You little bitch!" Sabre charges at Hémolyse and attempts to slash at her, but she grabs his blade with her gloved left hand. Sabre's eyes widen and he tries to move his blade away, but can't. "Who the fuck are you! What the fuck are you!" Sabre screams at Hémolyse who slams her free fist into Sabre's chest causing the sound of many broken ribs. Sabre coughs up blood and has his arm with the blade on it twisted harshly and broken at his elbow joint. Hémolyse then places her right hoof against Sabre's chest and pulls his arm with force. After a few seconds his lower arm is ripped off and Sabre is pushed back screaming in agony. Hémolyse stands normal again and tosses the arm aside.
"My name doesn't matter... You brought hurt and pain on the innocent and this is your punishment..." Hémolyse states.
Sabre forms another large arm blade on his remaining arm and attempts to lunge at Hémolyse, who slides past the blade and grabs his arm. She then merely twists it very harshly and rips it off like the first arm and pushes Sabre back again. "I will not die here like this!" Sabre goes to charge at Hémolyse but stops when she pulls out her revolver and places it against his forehead. Sabre falls to the floor kneeling and stares at Hémolyse.
"Know that I forgive you and pray you find salvation in death..." Hémolyse firmly states as she pulls the trigger sending a single bullet into and through Sabres head killing him as he falls backwards onto the floor.
Hémolyse holsters her gun and walks over to the dead pony's corpse and kneels down. Hémolyse closes the pony's eyes and says a prayer before standing up and walking out of the alleyway and continues onwards to the town square. Once she reaches the square she can see Octavia and Vinyl Scratch drinking soda's outside of a late night bar. Hémolyse taps her helmet to tell Victoria to end the music before she smiles and decides to leave them to their drinks. Hémolyse begins walking down the right road to where other Kansen sightings have been. Everywhere Hémolyse visited left dead and brutally defeated Kansen in her wake, all the way from J to B rank Kansen were dispatched during the night. It was reported that the painful screams and agonised yelling didn't stop till the sun began to rise in the distance.
Author's Note
I hope you all liked the governments point of view for a change as well as their movement to strike back at the Kansen. Things can only get heated from here on out.
