Chapter 3: Preparations Part 1

Returning to Ponyville and Fluttershy

I laid in the bed for the whole night. Not once did i drift off into my memories. I'm actually glad I didn't to be honest. I was able to rest my body and eyes so i was good to go. I got up and looked around, i opened the window curtain and a flash of bright light made me squint. Since i was a dragon i was naturally able to see in the dark so seeing the light so quickly hurt. My eyes quickly adjusted thankfully and i noticed the Sun was practically on level with my eyes. Celestia must have just rosin the Sun. I was able to see Ponyville from my window, it was amazing that Canterlot and Ponyville were so close. I turned to the door rubbing my eyes. I walked to the door and opened it, and noticed Mac was still standing there.

He heard me open the door and turned to look at me. "Good Morning Sarius. Did you sleep well?"

"Did you really stand there all night?" I asked concerned.

He frowned. "Yes, i have to. It's my duty to make sure no one attacks you while you sleep."

I sighed. "Well you can leave your post and get some rest of your own Mac. But before you do, may i ask where the shower room is?"

He raised an eyebrow. "The Shower room? Only the princesses can use them."

I cracked a sly smile. "Then it'll be our secret Mac. Besides I need to wash myself. And a shower will help ease my muscles."

He stared at me for a full minute before sighing. "Okay, Luna's is the closest one. Head that direction, take a right and go down pass 3 doors and the shower room will be on the right. It's quite a big room, so you should be able wash your wings too."

I smiled. "Thanks, I won't tell anyone Mac. And afterwards i have to head back to Ponyville, so I'll talk to Celestia before i leave."

He smiled. "Just try not to be caught using Luna's shower, I heard she doesn't like it."

I laughed and started walking towards the Shower room.

Luna was lying down on her bed. Surrounded by darkness and shadows was the way she liked her room to be. Not that she wanted it to look like she was evil, being the princess of the night meant she enjoyed the darkness. Though her room had stars which shined a little light in the room. She was still thinking about how she'll tell Sarius about her crush. She had all night to think about it, but every thoughtful attempt seemed like a bad idea for her.

She sighed, "Maybe it just isn't meant to be." she mumbled to herself.

Just then she heard foot steps. She got off the bed and edged close to the door to find the source of the sound. On closer inspection she was able to make out the sounds. They weren't hooves but claws, since she heard a slight click with every step.

"Was Sarius coming to see me?" She thought to herself. She felt her heart start beating a bit faster. As he got closer to the door her breathing started speeding up too. She was sweating now due to being so nervous. But Sarius passed the door and didn't stop. She then opened the door as quietly as she could. She was able to see his tail and body. He then stopped at her Shower room and entered.

Luna then had mixed feelings. She was mad that he was using her Shower room, but she was also curious as to why he would. Curiosity got the better of her and she sneaked out her room and silently closed the door with her magic. She then started walking slowly to her Shower room trying her best to not make a noise. She then sneaked a peek through the open doors and saw something that made her blush.

Sarius had turn on the water and just let it fall on his body. His hair was now hanging on the back of his neck. He must have turned the water to a hot level because steam was rising from his body. His slim body was appealing to her, he had a very muscular build for someone who was skinny. She was getting really hot, she thought it was the heat from the water but she was blushing a bright crimson red. She never noticed his tail was different at the tip till now. Instead of a tip it was an extra claw complete with bones and flexible muscles.

"Oh the things he could do to me with that." She thought with a smile. She realized what just crossed her mind and her expression changed to shock. "By my Sister, What is wrong with me? I'm watching him shower and thinking naughty things." She couldn't blame herself though, it was hard not to admire the sight before her. "But this is wrong. It's not right to watch him. I wouldn't like it if he watched me shower..... or would i?" She then started imagining him watching her shower and admiring the sight of her all wet and hot was enough to make her blush a bright red.

She turned away and shook her head. "Get a hold of yourself Luna. This is unbecoming of a princess, especially me. I wanted a chance to tell him about my feelings and i got one. I just have to wait for him to finish." She sat in silence for a few seconds. "But maybe i can still watch. As long as i don't think dirty thoughts. I might learn something about him." She then resumed watching making sure to not draft too far in her daydreaming.

She studied him seeing what she can learn from him. Sarius opened his wings but not to their full length, instead they were craved up as if he was shielding the ground from the light. But it wasn't the case it seemed, since a blue flame formed in his jaw and was released on the floor. It was a small flame, but once it came in contact with the wet floor hot steam rose up. Luna had to move her head away from the door to avoid getting burned.

"Ahhhh. That feels so much better. My wings felt so cramped up." Sarius let out a satisfying sigh.

Luna risked a look and saw he was using the steam to relief the strain and stress from his wings. "Interesting. I might consider trying that once." She made a mental note for herself later. She kept watching hoping maybe there's more he can show. And she was glad she did, since the next thing Sarius did surprised her.

Drops of the water started raising up and forming a larger form above Sarius. "So he can manipulate and use water as well. I wonder what else he's capable of." The large form of water then lowered on his body and spread out over his form. From head to tail he was covered in a watery body, even his wings were covered. The water then lifted off his body and started floating up separating into two forms. One levitated in front of him and he blow a blue flame so hot the water literally evaporated instantly and the other was dropped to the floor with a splash. Sarius then folded his wings and shook his body releasing drops of water.

Luna took this as a sign to stop, He was done with his shower and she didn't want to be caught watching him. She then turned and ran back to her room and shut the door. Little did she know that in her rush she dropped one of her shoes.

My wings haven't felt this good in so long that i nearly forgotten what's it like to have 3 extra muscles, two wings and a tail. My body was relaxed now and my tail claw morphed back into a regular tail, but i couldn't help but feel like someone was watching me. I just figured i was imagining it, but still I was using Luna's Shower room. Maybe, She was actually wondering why i was using her shower room. I slightly blushed but quickly got rid of the extra redness.

I stepped out the room and noticed a shiny silver horseshoe. I picked it up and realized it was in fact Luna's. I decided to pay her a visit to at least return her shoe. I stopped at her door and knocked. Luna opened the door a crack open but i could still she her turquoise colored eyes. She was giving me puppy dog eyes which caught me off guard.

I blinked once out of confusion. "Umm...." I was at a lost for words, I took a deep breath and calmed myself. "I.... Uh.... I found your shoe outside your shower room and thought i should give it to you." I showed her the shoe i was holding in my claw.

Her eyes then changed to a surprised look. "Oh. Thank you Sir Sarius, I was wondering where that went." Her horn glowed a dark but beautiful blue and the shoe was covered in the same aura and levitated past her and was back where it should be on her hoof. She noticed my tail and looked slightly confused at the sight of it. It was a regular dragon tail, no claw was seen.

"Why does she look confused about my tail?" I asked myself.

I didn't like being called Sir, but for some reason when Luna said it i felt flattered. "Well, that's what i do Luna. I help others."

I paused for a few seconds. As we stared into each other eyes i noticed just how beautiful she really was. Her star themed mane and blue fur made her glow in the dark. Eyes are the windows to the soul a famous individual once said. Well i can really see her soul and saw it was as dark and frighting as the night is. But it also had the beauty of the night, the glow of the moon and stars as well as ultimately giving that deep romantic feeling. For some reason i could feel myself getting hotter when i looked in her eyes. My heart started beating a bit faster than usual. I felt a familiar feeling overtake me. Was i feeling affection for another mare?

Luna raised an eyebrow. "Sir Sarius? Was there anything else you wanted to tell me?"

I realized i was staring and blinked to quickly broke eye contact. "Oh, Well yes there is. I'm heading back to ponyville soon and just wanted to let you know i plan on coming back for a visit once this whole ordeal with Kasulis is dealt with."

Luna was happily surprised. "You are? Oh, I would be happy to personally welcome you back. Just as long as you promise your coming back to me, I mean, to Canterlot to visit me and my sister again." She chuckled a little.

I was happy to know Luna will be waiting for me. "I promise Luna." I smiled.

Luna was so happy and excited that she wanted to give Sarius a big hug. But it would be informal of her, for now at least "If you want I could greet you with a hug to show how happy I am to see you again." She lowered eyelids half way and smiled.

I was getting uncomfortable from her look, but at the same time i was enjoying it. "Sure why not, anyway I have to go see your sister and ask her about something before i leave. I'll see you soon Luna."

She gave me a blissful look. "I hope so Sir Sarius." She gave me a wink which made me blush. She giggled and closed the door.

I scratched the back of my head and just laughed. I guess i was having a small affection for two mares but it wasn't serious right now so I quickly dismissed them. I had to focus anyway, there was stuff to do and I only had a limited amount of time. After everything calms down i'll have time to sort it out. I turned and headed to the Throne room. Once i was in that large hall, i saw Celestia was sitting at the end in her chair. I walked up to her.

She gave me a warm smile. "Oh hello Sarius. I thought you were heading back to Ponyville?"

I smiled. "Not yet Celestia. I came to ask a favor of you."

She raised her eyebrows. "Oh? What is it?"

"Well, I came to ask you if you could place Mac under my command. I would like to have someone of his experience helping me out." I paused for a few seconds and then thought of something else. "Oh. And since you and Luna want to help me deal with Kasulis, i need someway to contact you so i can keep you up to date with his status." I finished.

Celestia sat in silence for a few seconds. She then got up and walked towards me. "Well I'll be sure to have Mac reassigned under your command as soon as possible. As for Kasulis." She lowered her head and her horn was nearly touching my head. Her horn then glowed a bright yellow and i was invoked in the same aura. Her horn stopped glowing and she raised her head. "Now we can contact each other. Here's a quick explanation of how it works. You write a letter, and as you blow it out with your flame picture me and the letter will be sent to me."

I felt a little different to be honest. "So you basically cast a Letter spell on me." She nodded. "Alright. Thanks Celestia. I'll be leaving now but I'll still come by for a visit once this is all over." I gave her a reassuring smile.

She warmly smiled back. "I look forward to your return Sarius. Take good care of yourself."

I nodded. "I will, and you and Luna take care of yourselves too." And i took my leave, and walked out the castle and looked to the sky. The sky was as blue as it should be. But i couldn't help but feel like this wasn't going to last long. So i decided to waste no more time and took off for Ponyville.

I was heading to the library since i didn't know where the others live, and in my opinion I prefer going to see Twilight first. She reminded me of my sister, Circe. Always with her nose in the books and learning as much as she can. Though i don't think Twilight was the tinkering type. My sister loved to tinker, in fact much of my arsenal were results of my sister's tinkering.

Though one weapon i possessed was not the result of her tinkering. I had a sword that was infused with energtric power and was magical in nature. I could use my own energtric power to change the sword into different forms. I can cut the sword in half to make Duel Swords and since their infused with energtric power they adapt to their new forms. I could also take the Duel Swords and put their hilts together to make a Duel Blade. It is really useful weapon and it's called Energliss. It happens to be my main weapon.

I reached the Library and landed in front of the door and knocked. I waited for a few seconds. There was no answer. I knocked a little harder, still no answer. I then tried the door knob, and it was unlocked. I figured it would be a bad idea to just walk in, but since i was here to see the Mane Six anyway it shouldn't be a crime to enter. After all it was open anyway. I opened the door.

The library seemed empty, considering how really big it was. Though I've been in a few libraries with my sister before, i never seen such a large stash of books belonging to one individual before. I honestly didn't get a good look at the library before since i was there for a few minutes at best. I just looked at the books and noticed she had a lot of Non-Fiction books, most likely for research and studying. I saw a book labeled "Dragon Biology: Everything you need to know about Dragons" and my curiosity got the better of me. I took the book and started reading it. I always blamed my immense amount of curiosity on my mother who was as i always used to call "Mischief" since i swore she rubbed her curiosity off on me.

As i read the book, i noticed everything in the book was inaccurate but still managed to get a couple things correct. It suddenly dawned on me that a pony wrote this book and from what i experienced earlier ponies are naturally afraid of dragons. I didn't blame them, Dragons are closest things to being gods themselves since in my dimension they have been around since the prehistoric times. Though i noticed that only dragons of Fire were mentioned, i knew for a fact there were dragons with the power of the other elements. Lightning, Earth, Ice, Water, Light, Darkness, even Life and Death. Then there are a couple dragons capable of using all the elements simultaneously or have mastered their natural element and are able to wield them in many ways. These dragons were known to be called "Elder Dragons", I have fought all of them as part of my test to becoming the dragon i am now. I received knowledge of the elements as reward for defeating them since i would never kill anything that wouldn't think of using their power for evil. Though they had there natural urges and instincts to attack any whom they think lesser to them, but i still refuse to kill them. Instead i just set them straight, after all I'm part dragon as well so i too have my own urges and instincts, though mine are often more personal than involving others.

I was lost in my thoughts and the book that i didn't realize Spike was standing behind me. "Hey Sarius. Is there something you were looking for?"

I snapped back to reality, and closed the book. "Oh Spike. Sorry, I was looking for Twilight and this book got my attention." I put the book back and turned to face the young dragon. He was half my size but i couldn't help but feel he has a strong spirit. I stared into his Emerald colored eyes, and started seeing his soul, i quickly shifted my eyes somewhere else. Spike noticed my sudden eye movement.

"Sarius are you alright?" He sounded concerned.

I Nodded. "I'm fine Spike. Where is Twilight at?" I lied as i was not alright.

I had a unique ability that i never mentioned to anyone but my Father and Aunt. Kaila eventually found out on her own. I'm able to see the soul if I focused long enough. Most are unaware that the soul is bound to a body and shares the memories, emotions and deepest fears of the individual and even memories from past lives since the soul passes along. I often used this ability to help others with their troubles since i could tell what was bothering them. But this also meant Kasulis had access to the same ability. He would use someone's deepest fears to cause as much fear as possible. I tried not to make eye contact as much as possible, since Kasulis shares my knowledge he will have instant access to their fears.

Spike just looked at me. He assumed i was leaving out something, but he thought best not to try digging. "Well, Twilight is with Applejack and the others at Sweet Apple Acres building your house. I think their just about done with it."

"Oh really? Well i would like to pay a visit to them but i don't really know where the orchard is. So you mind helping me out?" I turned so my left side was facing him.

"Sure. I'm done with my chores anyway." He climbed on my back. I admit it was a little weird that a dragon was on my back, but i knew he couldn't fly. Not yet at least since i plan on helping him out with that.

I walked out the library and closed the door with my tail. "So Spike which way should i go?"

"That way, It's only a couple miles from here." He pointed to the south-east.

"Very well. Hold on tight Little Buddy." I unfolded my wings and let my full 6-foot wingspan show itself. And i took off the ground at a natural speed and was 3 stories off the ground in no time and started heading off in the direction Spiked pointed to making sure my speed was under 40 mph. "You doing okay Spike?" I shouted over the roar of the wind.

He was holding my shoulders rather tightly. "Yeah i think so. But i think my organs were left behind."

I laughed. "You'll get used to it Spike, Trust me. Just enjoy the thrill of flying Spike. It's certainly an awesome feeling to have."

Spike stood up feeling better now it seemed. "Just warn me when you take off the ground like that okay?"

I smiled. "Sure thing. It's certainly a dozy at first."

I saw the orchard and i was surprised to see how huge it was. A lot of Apple trees were growing there but out the corner of my eye i saw a few figures working. I assumed that was the Mane Six so i dove down to meet them. Spike didn't like my sudden descent, and held on to my neck. I landed softly and saw the house. I was amazed they were able to build a house of this size in one night. The house was about 20 feet in width and 15 feet in height. I suspected the length was also 20 feet making it a perfect square house. Meaning the house was big enough for me to stretch out my wings if needed. I folded my wings and silently took my spot behind the Mane Six.

"You think this is big enough for him Applejack?" Twilight asked concerned.

"Well we all worked all night to build this for him, so he should be fine." Applejack replied not sounding sure of herself.

"It'll work. He's not a big dragon. I think he just has big wings for someone of his size." Fluttershy sounded sure of herself. Hearing her sweet and soft voice made me happy to be back.

"Well he better like it. We spent all night building this for him. I couldn't even get a nap." Rainbow Dash sounded annoyed like i forced her to do this.

"Darling, As element of Generosity i assure you building this for him was the best choice to make. He helped us in the Crystal Empire, it's only natural we return the same kindness. Besides i doubt any of us would want him to live on the street or in a cave." I was happy to hear Rarity wanted to pay me back for my help. She might not be so bad after all.

"This is GREAT Now i can Throw him a Welcome to Equestria and Ponyville Party. THIS IS GOING TO BE GREAT!!!" Pinkie Pie was certainly energetic and excited for me to be here.

"Well, I'll say i love it. It's Perfect." I made myself known.

"Thank goodness he's happy with it girls." Twilight said without realizing i was right behind her. They then perked up and turned around to see me standing there smiling and Spike sitting on my back. "Sarius! When did you get here?" Twilight sounded surprised.

"A minute or two ago. I had to stop off at your Library first seeing if you were home. Then Spike told me you six were almost done with my house so i decided to rush over here." Spike hopped off my back.

"But Spike, I gave you chores to do. Why are you here?" Twilight sounded betrayed.

"Don't worry Twilight. I took care of them, and since Sarius didn't know where the orchard was i thought it was perfect timing. So i directed him here." Spike sounded proud of himself.

Twilight gave him a hug and patted his head. "Oh Thank you Spike. I knew you can handle it, and thank you for showing Sarius where to go." Twilight said in a motherly tone.

I looked to Fluttershy who was hovering there waiting for me to say something. "See Fluttershy. I kept my promise. Now aren't you going to say hi?" I asked with a small smile.

Fluttershy's eyes brightened up and wasted no time tackling me with a tight hug. "It's good to see you Sarius." She looked at me with blissful eyes. I'll admit for a shy pegasus she was pretty strong, but luckily i dealt with hugs that nearly squeezed the life out of me. This hug was at least a 3 on a 1 to 10 scale of biggest and tightest bear hugs.

Everybody but Twilight were surprised to see Fluttershy's actions. "What the hays gotten into you Flutters? Your never like this." Rainbow Dash sounded like she knew Fluttershy for a long time.

Twilight spoke up. "They're dating Rainbow. This type of behavior is normal for couples." Everybody gasped at her explanation. I rolled my eyes.

"So this means that i not only get to throw a Welcome to Equerstria and Ponyville Party, But also a New time Couple Party! THIS IS AWESOME!!!!" Pinkie Pie Shouted out in pure Delight.

I looked at Fluttershy who understood what was on my mind immediately. She got off of me and looked at everybody else and spoke up. "Actually Twilight, we're not really dating but more a step back from it. We're readying ourselves for when we do date. Sarius said he's in need of positive feelings right now and i decided I'd help him and we decided on a few ground rules to make sure we don't take it seriously. For now anyway." She looked at me and winked. I smiled letting her know that's exactly what i would have said.

Applejack chimed in with a question. "So let me get this straight. Ya'll aren't dating but are still doing enough lovely doodle stuff to keep Sarius in a good mood?" I'll admit for Applejack's lack of love and romance she hit the nail on the head with that one.

I stood up and brushed some dirt off. "Yup, But I'm always in a good mood. It's Kasulis that I'm worried about, so staying in a good mood for me helps delay Kasulis for a little longer." I summed up Applejack's question with a better in depth explanation.

Fluttershy nodded confirming she understood my aim here. "Exactly. Kasulis is always in a Bad mood, so keeping Sarius in a Good mood helps ruin Kasulis bad mood." I thought she sounded adorable saying that. Using mood as a word in place of side.

Pinkie pie looked disappointed. "Aw, I guess that party will have to wait till after you two make it official. But i'll still throw you the other party Sarius."

I was beginning to like Pinkie, If only for her personality and energetic mood. She certainly reminded me of myself when i was younger. "I would suggest you hold off that party for now Pinkie. We need to deal with Kasulis first, then you can throw that party."

Pinkie put on a serious face. "Right. No Pony or Dragon is gonna keep me from doing what i love to do. And that's to make everypony happy and smiling. That and i love to throw parties." I knew she was serious but she still had that excited personality which made me crack a smile.

"I'll take your word on that Pinkie." I noticed they were all tired and exhausted which wouldn't be good for me if i was going to help unlock their hidden potentials. "I suggest you all head home and get some rest and get something to eat. I'll get myself comfortable in my home while you girls get ready for my visit." I then looked at Fluttershy she didn't seem as exhausted and tired compared to the others. Her hug was enough to tell me she wasn't. "Fluttershy I'll be visiting you first."

Fluttershy started blushing slightly. "Oh, Why me first? Maybe you can.... um.... see somepony else first, if you want."

"Your not as exhausted as the others Fluttershy. In order for my power to work properly you all need to be in top shape. It'll make it easier for me to locate your hidden potentials. When your like this everything is all jumbled and spread out, making it hard for me to find anything."

Everybody seemed to understand. Fluttershy was still blushing a little and was looking really nervous. "Okay.... if you say so...... it's just..... you... and me.... all by..... ourselves...... is making me......... uncomfortable." She started blushing a really dark red now and trying to hide behind her mane.

I started blushing too realizing what was going through her mind. "Oh. Don't take it as a personal visit but more a..... um...... friend stopping by to help with....... something." I was getting nervous now thanks to Fluttershy putting that thought in my head. It seemed to help a little but she was still quite nervous.

Twilight must have noticed things were getting really awkward between me and Fluttershy. "Your right Sarius, I am pretty exhausted and hungry. You take Fluttershy back to her Cottage and the rest of us will get ready." She then looked at Applejack. "AJ i believe Sarius will be visiting you next since we're close to your farm."

AJ nodded. "Yup. Ah just need some food and Ah'll be raring to go."

I looked to Fluttershy who was as her name hinted being shy. "So i'll let you lead the way. I don't know where you live." I laughed nervously.

"Okay." Fluttershy squeaked. She slowly got up and started walking towards the edge of the forest and i followed her.

As we walked along the forest's edge, I was sensing quite a few things in the forest itself. Since my aunt was Mother Nature i could tell when something was off about plants, trees, animals and often times the very air itself. I'm even able to communicate with animals. This forest certainly felt off to me, almost as if it were "alive". Plus i felt like such a place held deep secrets within it's roots.

I stopped at the entrance and stared in the open mouth of the forest. I suddenly felt a powerful presence, but only for a second. Whatever blush or funny feelings i had in my gut from walking with Fluttershy was replaced with a instinct of readying to stand my ground against someone or something. I hadn't noticed Fluttershy was still walking a few feet before slowly turning her head left to see if i was still there. When i wasn't she lost her blush and was no longer cowering behind her mane.

"Sarius?" She looked to her right and then behind her and noticed i was looking pretty serious staring at the Forest. She ran up to me worrying i saw something that might be of great concern. When she saw nothing was there she pressed her hoof against my arm. "Um, Sarius are you alright?"

I was snapped back to reality and looked Fluttershy in the eyes. I could see her concern. "I'm fine, but i feel something is off about this forest. I can't place my claw on it though."

She shivered. "Well, This is the Everfree Forest. There's lots of scary things in there. It's not a safe place to be wandering around on your own, especially at night. My Cottage is close by. I'm sure you must be feeling hungry Sarius. I'm a good cook if I say so myself." She then resumed walking. I took one last glance at the Forest and made a note to myself to check it out later and followed Fluttershy.

When we arrived at her Cottage the first thing i noticed it was like the Library Twilight lived in, it was made out of a tree almost and there were a lot of various animals running around. But once i made a noise they saw me and ran away out of fear.

"Sorry Sarius, My little animal friends aren't used to having a dragon around expect Spike. But Spike is a small dragon so he doesn't really scare them easily."

I shock my head. "It's okay Fluttershy, I can sense their fear and hear them mentioning some very fearful words about me."

Fluttershy was shocked i could hear the animals voices. "You understand them too?" I nodded. "Wow. I never thought i would meet somepony else or a dragon in this case that could understand and talk to animals like i can." She started flapping her wings excitedly and took off the ground a few feet. "How does a dragon like yourself have that ability?" She asked with extreme curiosity.

I smiled. "Well my aunt happens to be Mother Nature believe it or not. In my dimension she's practically linked with the Earth and other planets that have life on it. So I managed to get a few abilities from her. One is being able to talk to animals. Another is being able to understand and know how the Earth feels. Basically plants, tress and often times the very air itself. And Lastly the power to use the elements Earth, Air and Water even a bit of Life."

Fluttershy was amazed. "Oh my. That's amazing Sarius. I never thought you were more than a fire dragon."

I chuckled. "Well, I'm full of surprises Fluttershy. As we hang out more you'll see just how much i have in store."

She started blushing again. "Oh i look forward to hanging out with you more Sarius. Your the first real dragon i ever managed to talk to."

I lowered my head. "I can understand why." Fluttershy wasn't afraid of me. But i knew better. Once she or anyone saw how potentially dangerous i am they will end up being scared and clinging to their lives hoping i would spare them or in some cases like with Luna or Celestia try to kill me to protect their subjects and loved ones which is foolhardy in my eyes. I knew how dangerous i was, but trying to ensure that others know i'm not a threat is hard when they seen even a small amount of what i'm capable of especially considering i know the limit to my power scares even me. And trying to kill or defeat someone or something you know little of is near impossible. I would know that better than anyone, since i've been in that type of situation before several times. "I guess it's true. Sometimes your worst enemy is often yourself." i thought to myself.

"Sarius, Are you alright? You look pretty down and depressed." Fluttershy sounded very worried.

I just sighed and tried to smile but ending up having a small smile. "I'm fine, just recalling bad memories that's all." I looked at her and my smile instantly widen a bit. "But we're getting distracted, i'm here to help you out so let's get to it."

Fluttershy smiled knowing i was okay at least. "Okay, i'll show you in." She hovered to the door and opened it.

As i entered the, rather small, door i noticed the inside of the cottage was filled with bird houses, mouse holes and was lined with simple but rather good looking furniture. It almost seemed like an animal shelter. I saw a set of stairs that told me there was a second floor which was her bedroom i assumed. The kitchen was to the left, and was in plain sight. Not much else was needed to be seen, expect how clean, organized and pretty everything seemed considering she was the only one living here.

"I'll go cook up some breakfast for you. So i'll be right back." Fluttershy trotted to the kitchen to cook.

I just sat on the couch and spread my legs across the length of it. It was just big enough for me to stretch out my hind legs. However before i could make myself comfortable, i noticed a white bunny was eyeballing me. He was sitting on the table in front of me and staring at me with a serious glare.

-You think you can just make yourself comfortable in my friends house so quickly? Well you got some nerve buster.- The bunny was actually talking to me. Which kinda surprised me considering the other animals ran at the sight of me.

Whatever goofy or silly face i had quickly turned serious as i stared right back at the bunny unblinkingly as if i was trying to win a staring contest. "Well excuse me, I thought i was a guest of hers. I didn't think she would mind. But you obviously are, did i take your favorite seat or something little rascal?" I shot back.

The bunny was getting angry to say the least. -You better behave yourself. You may be a Dragon but i won't hesitate to give you a beating if it meant getting some respect out of you. You best watch your step.-

I cocked my eyebrow up. "You threatening me, Albino shrimp?" I chuckled lightly. The bunny's expression changed to a peeved one. "You got guts little guy, I'll give you that. But maybe you should think before threatening someone who can cook you alive and eat you as an appetizer." I showed my teeth all 32 of them. Sharp as daggers an inch and a half long but still strong enough to tear into tougher scales of dragons and pierce their flesh. And for good measure i let a little blue flame dance around in my maw to show i had the fire power to back up my threat. The bunny then slumped his ears down and looked at me with a face i knew was fear and with a broken resolve. I turned the fire off and shut my maw with a smile. "That's better." I could tell i won this bout. The bunny just sat there still staring at me with fear but still showed hints of anger.

I could tell what he was actually concerned about, Fluttershy. And intimidating him like i did, must of made him scared for Fluttershy than himself. My smile melted into a frown. "I can promise you, I'm no threat to you or Fluttershy. The last thing on my mind is harming someone." The bunny's fear was going away, but he still had his doubts. I didn't blame him, I can't even trust myself half the time anyway.

Fluttershy exited the kitchen with a tray. A plate had scrambled eggs on it with toast on the side and a glass of water. She sat it down on the table in front of me, and noticed the bunny was standing there staring at me. "Oh, i see you already met my pet bunny Angel. I made some eggs for you so i hope you enjoy them." She smiled.

I looked at the white bunny. "Angel really? Who would actually name an animal this small with a big ego that? Lucifer would make more sense." I thought to myself as I ate the food Fluttershy cooked for me. It tasted good for the most part, the typical breakfast i guess. As i finished i felt full and my energy fully restored. I was good to go now. I got up off the couch and stretched a little bit, before drinking the glass of water. My body certainly felt cleaner now with water running through it. I took a deep breath.

I looked at Fluttershy in the eyes. "Thank you. Now shall we get started Fluttershy?" I took a few steps towards her.

Fluttershy started getting a little uneasy to say the least. "Okay." She dropped herself to the ground and folded her wings and started blushing. She lowered her head in shyness. "So..... What now?" I walked up to her left side and placed my right claw on her chest where her left lung would be. She instantly tensed up and her blush turned her usual yellow face completely red. "AH! What are you doing Sarius?! Your making me feel really uncomfortable."

"Shhhh. Relax." I closed my eyes and started concentrating. "Forgive me for suddenly touching you in a rather sensitive area. But to unlock your potential i need to be in physical contact with you. Relax your body and clear your mind, it'll make it easier for me and help make this faster."

Fluttershy did her best to try and relax but with Sarius touching her like this it made it quite difficult. Clearing her mind was even harder with all the thoughts going through her head right now. She managed to relax her body after a few minutes, and she tried focusing on one thought "What will my Hidden power be like?". Since she was thinking about her hidden power, it made it easier for Sarius to find it.

I had to wait a few minutes for her to calm down. I noticed she had one thought on her mind and it helped. I looked through her entire body looking for the locked source. This may sound perverted but know that i saw nothing in her body expect darkness. My ability to unlock potentials makes it so i can find a locked source of power in a living being. A lot of cases the power is hard to notice, since it's rather small and considering the fact it's locked prevents it from growing properly. But this time Fluttershy's power was almost impossible to miss, it was rather large considering it's locked up. But what caught me off guard though, was i was familiar with this power. It was Energtric, a Pony with the power of Energtric is new to me. As far i know only dragons possess that power, and it was very rare to find anything else with that power. Though my aunt has that power, but considering she was the goddess of the Earth, Air, Water and Life itself it was no surprise plus she's the sister of a dragon god.

I noticed off the bat it was larger than it was supposed to be. It was locked so i know it couldn't expand past a certain point but the fact it was actually growing was amazing. I assumed Fluttershy was doing something that actually required the use of Energtric. Then it hit me, Twilight mentioned something about Fluttershy using a stare to scare a dragon. The Stare, now it all made sense, if the Stare used Energtric energy it can easily put the scare in dragons. So if she was using the Stare a few times before now that will explain why her hidden power was growing.

"Alright i found it. Let me know if you feel anything." I then focused on that single spot and worked my power. Once i unlocked it, the power ran wild and quickly covered the darkness with a brilliant blue color. I opened my eyes, and the first thing i noticed was Fluttershy was covered in a blue aura. Her expression showed she was surprised and a little scared of her new power. Energtric was certainly a thing to be afraid of, it's capable of doing anything as long as the individual has enough energy to spare. For me it's my Life energy, so if it's spent I'm completely vulnerable and easy to kill. I'm not entirely sure if Fluttershy's works the same way or not, but i certainly needed to find out.

Fluttershy turned to look at me waiting for me to tell her what to do. "Alright, this power of yours is a real doozy. I would know, it's exactly like mine." She was shocked to know she and I had the same power. "Okay, The first thing you need to know about Energtric, is that it's capable of doing anything. So be careful as to what you use with it. I'll teach you a few basic things you need to know. The rest you'll have to learn on your own. Follow me." I opened the door and walked out, Fluttershy followed suit.

I walked to small clearing not far from her cottage. I turned to her and looked her in the eyes. "I need you to pay close attention. This power is not easy to learn but easy to use. We'll start with the bare basic, how to utilize the energy." I sat down and raised my front claws, Fluttershy did the same. "First, visualize the energy in your body like its water. It's constantly flowing but the source is located in your heart. One thing to note is that your energy is linked to your mind and emotions. If your emotions were to run wild, so will the energy. So you must keep your emotions under control. Now to actually bring it out."

I lifted my front claws and placed them close together. "The energy is easy to pull out. Just relax your muscles, and let the energy flow. Then just think of your claws, or in your case hooves, are channels for energy to run through. All you have to do is stop the flow in between and let it grow until..." I let my energy flow through my claws and started building it up. Then a small blue spark formed in the space between. "You make a spark." Fluttershy leaned in to get a closer look.

It was certainly beautiful to look at. The brilliant blue light shined a blue tint on Sarius' dark red scales and silvery underside. She could sense the amount of power this 'spark' was putting out, which surprised her as to how she could. The 'spark' was raw energy at best, she recalled Sarius having an outburst of energy back in the Crystal Empire but she was barely able to see the energy since it happened so fast, but now that she was seeing that very energy at a smaller size she couldn't help but think of how it was a sight to look upon.

I noticed Fluttershy's reaction to my spark, and took note she does not yet know just how dangerous this power is, even when it's a just a spark like this. I let the flow resume and pulled my claws apart cutting off the flow between the channels. Fluttershy sat up and looked me in the eyes. "Your turn. Do it exactly as i described."

Fluttershy held up her front hooves and looked at them with a confused expression. She put her hooves close together just like Sarius did and started visualizing that energy she saw. She could feel the flow of the energy in her body and jumping from one hoof to the other so she tried making it stop in between her hooves. For a few minutes nothing was happening, and her face was showing strain and tensity as she tried her best to create her 'spark'.

I saw Fluttershy was struggling with this so i let my instinct as a mentor take over. "Relax yourself, Fluttershy." She looked at me with a sad look like she about to cry. I could sense her fear of failing, but i knew her current course of action would result in nothing but stress since i was in her position before though mine was of a different fear. "You can't force it out or make it stop. If you do, it'll fight back. And that's an unwinnable battle. Relax your body and clear your mind, just let the energy flow. The energy will collide with itself as it's traveling between the channels so focus on that and let it expand and collect the energy that's thrown out." She listened and proceeded to relax her body and mind. She took rhythmic breathes to help, she remembered her lessons from when she was trying to recover from her fears. A deep but silent breath in through the nose, and out the mouth. I instantly recognized her technique of relaxation which was the best way to do so.

She then started feeling the energy flowing between her hooves. He was right it was colliding with itself and some of it was being thrown out as a result, so she started pulling that energy in and letting it become a magnet for the rest. A flicker appeared for a split second but then a glow was seen in her hooves. The glow then started growing into the 'spark' Sarius showed, and a smile started forming on her face. She was overly happy she was to do it. "Fluttershy, lock out the spark so no more energy can enter. If you don't the spark will grow out of control until you stop the flow or let it go." Sarius suddenly sounded serious and worried. Fluttershy then took notice of the spark getting bigger, and did what he instructed. She able to lock the spark and took a sigh of relief. She looked at Sarius with a small smile, who nodded in response.

Fluttershy then let the spark disappear and let it flow like it's meant to and separated her hooves for good measure. I was impressed to see she made a spark and maintain it so quickly. A quick learner like myself, I was liking her more now than ever. "Very good Fluttershy. Just remember what i taught you." I stood up on all fours and she looked at me curiously. "Now i'll teach you how to bring it out in a more concentrated form." She nodded showing she understood and stood up as well.

After about 45 minutes or so, she was able to bring out the energy easily and keep it under control. Unfortunately i was only showing her how to bring it out without essentially wasting it. The last thing i want her to experience is the exhaustion and feeling of weakness from overusing or wasting precious energy. "Just keep one thing in mind Fluttershy, 'This energy is a part of you. Don't use it if you think you don't need it. Save it for when you do.'. You can stay in a fight a lot longer by doing that." I spoke from experience.

Fluttershy was getting the hang of it, but one thing still loomed her mind. A question she needed answered. "Sarius, May i ask something? It might be..... personal." She finished with slight hesitation.

I looked her dead in the eyes, and raised my eye brow. "You can ask me anything, personal or not. Though i would trend lightly when it comes to 'Personal' questions. There are some that bring back...... bad memories." I shuddered and cringed at the thought of one particular memory.

Fluttershy noticed my sudden body action and took my advice, though she was sure her question wasn't going that route. "Well. I was curious as to." She paused for a few seconds. "If you know anypony else, that has this potential besides yourself?" She let out in an almost small tone.

I was silent for a good few seconds. Fluttershy thought for a second that she hit personal ground until I broke the silence. "Yeah.... Mostly it's other dragons that have it. But i know someone who isn't a dragon but has the full potential of one." I closed my eyes and pictured her in my head. "Her name is Kaila Randence, much like me she's a hybrid. Her DNA is similar to mine with the only major difference of having Phoenix DNA in her instead of a Dragon." Fluttershy was awed in knowing i was friends with a phoenix but she was suddenly overcome with another question.

"She's part phoenix? Does that mean you two are....." She paused for a second to try and get the right word. "Rivals?" Fluttershy knew well that phoenixes and dragons don't get along well.

I simply smiled since i knew why she would ask. "No, we're not. My rival is actually my brother." I opened my eyes and focused on the teal-blue eyes that were Fluttershy's. "Believe it or not, Kaila is the one i managed before." I thought back to what i said to Fluttershy to help her remember. "I told you that you reminded me a of certain girl i knew back in my dimension. Well that will be Kaila." I paused for a moment to let it sink in.

Fluttershy was.... shocked would be an understatement right now. She was beyond shocked, she was dumbfound. She had no words for what she heard. Nor could she find anything to say in general. Sarius was actually romantically involved with a phoenix. She was hoping Sarius was joking and that he will say so. But it seems he wasn't. After a few seconds she finally got urge to ask something that might be too much for her. "So....umm.... You two are..... dating?" She chuckled lightly and nervously.

I nodded and looked to the sky. "Yup, and to add to it. We even have twins, most likely 2 years old now. Heh, that actually came by really fast. I didn't expect that and if i did i wouldn't be expecting twins. Boy was that a real shocker to me and my sibs. My sister realizing she was getting to be an aunt. OH MAN her expression was priceless, I think she actually passed out on the spot." I started laughing. After a few seconds there was silence. "Uh, Fluttershy?" I looked back to find 'she' had fainted. I scratched my head. "Um.... Too much?" I asked myself.

After waiting a few minutes, Fluttershy finally came around. She was woozy to say the least. "Uh. What happened?" She looked around for Sarius and found him exiting her cottage with a glass of water. "Sarius? What happened?"

"Shh. Take it easy, I told you some..... shocking news about me." I looked worried i might have went too far with my personal relationship with Kaila. I handed Fluttershy the glass of water. "Here, drink up. If's there's one thing i learned in my 4 years of training is that water is the best thing to drink for Energtric wielders like us." She took the glass and slowly drank it.

After taking a few gulps Fluttershy decided to confirm if she heard Sarius right. "So.... your a father?"

I looked away and focused my attention on the ground for no reason. "Yeah. I..... don't think about it much." I paused for a couple seconds. "It's hard enough having to maintain balance in the Multi-Verse. So trying to be a father to twins who might take my place one day is..... too much for me to handle at this point." I closed my eyes and imagined my cute little twins growing up without their father, like i have. Which caused my eyes to starting tearing up. "I was raised without a father and eventually a mother as well. I could even say I barely knew my dad, so when i think about my twins I..... keep seeing them grow up without me being there." My tears were few and slow. "I even imagine seeing them again and they..... Don't even... recognize me as..... Their father." I finished with a somewhat broken voice.

Fluttershy felt guilty for asking and started tearing up as well. She moved closer to Sarius and embraced him in a firm but warm hug. Her wings extended around his neck. "I'm so sorry, Sarius. I didn't mean to make you cry." Her voice was shaking from sadness.

Her sudden hug and embrace was a little surprising to say the least. I could dare say it felt like my Mother's. I don't have many memories of my mother, but i will always remember her warm smile and loving embrace. My tears stopped, and i was able to smile a little thanks to her. "Fluttershy.... You did nothing. I just roamed too far with that subject." I wiped off my face. "I should have told you that being a father is a real sensitive subject for me." I looked in Fluttershy's puffed up eyes and wiped a tear from her cheek. She smiled a little. "I still have one more thing i need to teach you." I stood up and Fluttershy did the same. She looked better knowing i wasn't crying.

"Alright this is the last thing i'll teach you. I will want you to practice this when i leave. You'll need to get the hang of how it works. And considering your not used to standing on two legs will be the challenge here." I walked up beside her and stood at least two feet away from her so she can see what i do. "Alright, i showed you how to bring it out, now it's time to use it. I'll show you the best defense this power has to offer. But you will have to start with something simple. 'Energtric Barrier' is a simple defense use, but can save your butt a lot if you use it right. I would know."

"Okay, first off you'll have to be able to stand up on two legs for at least a few seconds to pull it off. Try doing that now." Fluttershy tried standing up on her two hind legs and almost instantly fell back on all four legs. "I know it's not easy, but the easiest way to do this is to find the right way to balance yourself." I stood up on my two hind legs. "I can easily do this since i'm used to being able to do this. But might i suggest you try extending your strongest leg backward for support." I demonstrated this by putting my right claw back a few inches. My right side was naturally stronger than my left. "Alright you try now." Fluttershy took a few seconds trying to remember which side is stronger. She then managed to stand up and was about to fall over but she instantly replied with putting her left leg back. She was a little unstable at first but was able to stay up without falling over. "Great. Now i'll show you how to use the Barrier."

I put my arms out in front of my chest in a cross formation. "First you have to form an X with your front legs. Let the energy flow in your legs and focus it." She did as i instructed and though she had little trouble standing up due to her being nervous of falling on her face. "Good, now the next thing you do, is focus all the energy in your front legs until they start glowing." I let the energy build up in my arms and they started glowing blue. "Then you just push it out." I pushed my arms forward quickly letting the energy disperse in front of me. The energy spread out to look like a barrier. The energy stayed until i lowered my arms and the energy dissipated with it. I looked at Fluttershy. "Your turn."

She did exactly as i did. Her front legs started glowing and she pushed with all her might. The energy came out in the same fashion as mine only it pushed Fluttershy back with it. She started to fall over but i quickly caught her. She looked confused. "I did it, but why did i fall over?" She tilted her head at me.

I helped her on her feet as i recalled what happened the first time i did it. "I guess forgot about that. Pushing out the energy is easy, but you have to keep in mind that it has a recoil effect. 'With every force there's an equal counter-force' as my father says. I'll admit the same thing happened to me when i was learning." I blushed and giggled at the thought of falling on my butt due to losing my balance rather quickly. "I just didn't have anyone to catch me." Fluttershy giggled. "You get used to it and quickly adjust to it. I can assure you that. Just keep practicing."

I then felt my internal clock chime as if it was telling me something. Then i realized it was 11:00 am and practically lunch-time. "Ah crap. I nearly forgot i have to go see the others." I looked at Fluttershy. "You just keep practicing and when i get back if you get the hang of using the Barrier i'll teach the stronger version. The 'Energtric Shield' which is my personal favorite. I have to go see Applejack now." I then recalled what i told Celestia. "Hey you got a pen and paper i can use?"

Fluttershy trotted into her cottage and brought back a blue pen which was in her mouth and a small parchment. "Will this work?" She mumbled with the pen in her mouth. I nodded and took the parchment and the pen and sat at the closest table and started writing a letter to Celestia. I paused for a few seconds to see if i sensed Kasulis stirring in me. So far he's been behaving himself i could still sense his presence but barely. As i finished up the letter i read over it to make sure i didn't need to make adjustments.

Dear Celesita,

I'm sure your expecting this letter by now, so i'll give you the update. So far Kasulis is under control, but the way i know him it won't last long. This may be to throw me off and catch me with my guard down. So be ready just in case. If he takes control i won't be able to warn you. I did manage to give you a sensor when you casted this spell on me to let you know when he does. As long as you can sense my essence we're fine. Sorry for doing that without your permission, just taking percussions. He's not to be taken lightly. I'm with Fluttershy right now, so i'll send you an update after i help the Mane Six one by one. So you'll get a frequent update.

Your new Friend, Sarius Trusdale.

P.s. Tell Luna i said Hi and that i haven't forgotten our deal.

Once i read over it very carefully, i nodded to myself. "This will do." i assured myself. I then rolled the letter up and thought about Celestia. Her multi-colored flowing mane, magenta eyes and pure white fur came into my head. I blow a small flame and burned the parchment. Much to my surprise the flame wasn't blue at all, but golden. The parchment itself also disappeared in a gold smoke. After a minute passed i assumed the letter got to her.

I then looked at Fluttershy. "Alright i guess i'll be heading off now. I'll be back after i visited the others and helped them out." I then sat up and walked to an open spot. "I'll see you later." I then spread out my wings and jumped and started flapping them causing the air to be pushed rather intensely. I then took off towards the orchard. Leaving a mess of leaves and Fluttershy with a new messy mane behind.

Kasulis' essence began stirring. 22% active.