The Tale of Blight, Emerald and Whiteby VoltsthevoltvoltsChaptersThe Start of Something New A Bleak Situation A Necessary Evil The Start of Something New Author's Note Writing late at night is a bad habit of mine. I keep meaning to write during the day but I can't seem to find the time. As with all my work expect errors that are grammatical, it's not my strongest suit. Also despite the AU tag I intend for this to cross over to the MLP universe in the latter parts of the story, just not right now hence the tag. Also sorry if this comes off as cringe-y I haven't been writing for awhile... Also late night writing and a serious case of ageing. The Start of Something New Emerald Magic had studied neutral magic for the better part of his life, his ability in practical sessions in unmatched however he lacks the education to prove it in theory. Meanwhile one of his fellow students, White Light excels at using holy magic and can explain her magic in theory. Despite coming from two different schools, the two get along well in the only magical collage in the city, even going as far to make plans for their future. “Hey Emerald chin up.” Emerald looked up and saw White Light, she was as beautiful as ever even with all the stress of exams. Her mane was long and flowed elegantly and was as white as the purest of snows. A small pearl necklace sat calmly around her neck drawing attention away from her regal sapphire eyes. Despite her coat being a slightly darker shade of white it all blended well and her cutie mark resembled a pair of angelic wings with a halo above them. “We have our plans right? I will pick you up in a weeks’ time… And then we can get started.” White Light winked slyly at Emerald. “I wish I had passed though…” Emerald sighed, he was a mess. His normally well-kept mane was a mess and was growing unchecked. His emerald eyes were surrounded by bags from late night study sessions and his tail was frayed from being neglected all this being caused by the stress of exams. His coat was a mix of purple and blue and his mane was a solid chestnut colour. “It annoys me that I only failed by a few marks…” Emerald brought a piece of paper to White Light’s eye level. “No need to act so glum Emerald…” White Light ignored the paper and sat next to the sulking colt. “We planned for this, remember?” White lightly gently placed her hooves around Emerald and pulled him close. Emerald sighed and returned the hug. “See? Everything is going to be alright...” Emerald sighed to himself he surveyed the bar, the only other pony in the bar was the tavern owner and he was cleaning a mug. “I should have known it was too good to be true…” Emerald muttered to himself. He had spent the past seven weeks waiting for White Light to show up and each week his hope and spirit grew weaker. “Eh? What’s that Emerald?” The tavern owner hollered over from behind the bar. “Nothing…” Emerald sighed loudly and slowly got up. “I'm thinking of calling it quits, how’s my tab?” The tavern owner shook his head. “Don’t worry about it… Just don’t cause any trouble.” Emerald moved over to the bar. “At least let me tidy up, it’s the least I can do.” Emerald levitated a few mugs and rags into the air and began cleaning. The tavern simply finished cleaning his mug and nodded. “So, how long has it been then? Seven months now?” The tavern owner inquired as Emerald effortlessly cleaned mugs. “Seven and a half now. I’ve gotten over it though.” Emerald lied to himself, in truth he had hoped White Light would walk into the tavern every day and take him away. “Seems like yesterday you showed up all bright eyed and happy. You were so sure of what the future held.” The tavern owner reminisced. “What happened to you?” “I don’t know…” Emerald groaned. “There was this mare, we had plans for the future… She just, left me.” Emerald chuckled quietly. “We spent years planning out our lives and she just… Ditched it.” “Heh mares, not worth the trouble if you asked me.” The tavern owner chuckled joyfully. “My first wife cost me my house in greater Dawn, the really expensive part of the city. Second wife tried to still the tavern, I learnt my lesson by the third.” “But she was different.” Emerald reasoned. “We had planned ever small detail. From the moment we left the collage to the moment we died. We even planned to have foals at some point. I guess there are something’s in life you…” Emerald was cut off by the door to the tavern swinging open. A cloaked figure stood in the door, completely masked by the darkness outside. Bother Emerald and the tavern owner gave a puzzled look. “Erhm.” The pony was undoubtedly a mare from her voice, just not the mare Emerald was anticipating for though. “I take it happy hour is over?” The mare coldly laughed, her voice was jagged as if she had been running. “Service stopped three hours ago.” The tavern owner proclaimed. “I take it you have other business here?” “How perceptive of you.” The mare hissed, her voice went from jagged too cold as she regained her energy. “Yes, I have been scouring the local area for an apprentice, in my neck of the woods they are hard to come by.” “As I see.” The tavern owner flatly replied. “Well we don’t have any left. Emerald here keeps the bar tidy.” “Truly?” The mare curiously queried as her gaze moved over to Emerald. “Well…” Emerald felt his throat go dry, the mares stare was unnerving. “I have been here for the past seven months.” “Working?” The mare continued her inquisition. “I take it that a lot of unicorns are finding themselves in dead end jobs?” “Well, it’s not exactly a dead end job.” The tavern own spoke up. “I offer him shelter and food. In return he makes tidy up the place a lot easier.” “Y-Yeah…” Emerald stuttered, the mare eyes still fixated on him. “Well…” “Well?” The mare grinned slyly. “It’s not like the tavern needs me…” Emerald slowly concluded. The mares grin grew malicious as she pulled her cloak’s hood down, revealing a long flowing ebony mane. The mare moved over to emerald and held out her hoof. Emerald took it and shook it. “Bleak, Bleak Blight.” Bleak said as she greeted Emerald. “Oh!” Emerald snapped himself away from staring at Bleak momentarily. “Emerald, Emerald Magic.” Emerald shook his head, he took another quick glance a Bleak. The mares mane looked like a fine black silk and was kept in two bunches with tails flowing down, her eyes were an amber colour and her coat was a very dark grey colour. “Alright now Emerald, let’s not get ahead of ourselves.” The tavern owner interrupted, giving Emerald a worried look and a frantic gesture as he did so. “Mind if we have a quick chat in the other room. “Go ahead, I will wait right here.” Bleak said emotionlessly. The tavern owner guided Emerald into the kitchen. “What are you doing!?” The tavern owner bellowed. “I’m moving on.” Emerald explained. “It’s been seven months. I think it’s been established that White has given up on me.” “Yes, but I doubt that going with the… Mare out there would be any better. ‘Bleak Blight,’ who has a name like that?” The tavern owner hastily replied. “Look, I'm not saying don’t move on. I'm just saying this might not be your best option.” “And why does it matter to you? I take it you have had some experience with this mare before then? Otherwise…” “I have.” The tavern owner replied. “Every few years she shows up. Always looking the same. Always looking for an assistant.” “Oh…” Emerald froze up. “I had no idea…” “Yeah. Well I never expected her to show up, whether she find an assistant is up for debate. She normally shows up a few months after the last apprentice leaves.” “Do you think it’s a good idea to go with her?” Emerald slowly asked. “I mean, if she has spent all that time look for an assistant but not found one…” “At the end of the day, it’s your call Emerald. I’m not going to stop you.” The tavern owner reassured. “I just wanted you to understand why I am little concerned.” “Alright, I know what I want to do.” Emerald positively said as he turned around with and with a confident nod he walked out of the room. Bleak was stood where she was when Emerald left. “So Emerald, what took you so long?” “I was just discussing something with my boss. I have decided that I will go with you.” Emerald began to feel his confidence turn into doubt when Bleak face lit up. “Oh really now?” Bleak chuckled menacingly. “Very well then, let’s head out. It is a long trek to my house.” The tavern owner emerged from the kitchen. “Well Emerald it’s been a pleasure having you here. I guess you’re onto greener pastures right?” The tavern owner laughed heartily and patted Emerald on the back. “Well best of luck. Maybe you can drop down sometime?” “Yeah…” Emerald sighed. “Well I guess this is it then…” Bleak rolled her eyes and moved over to the door. “As I said, it’s a lengthy trip. We better get started.” Bleak coldly said, disregarding any sentiment in the parting. The mare opened the door with her magic and left the tavern with Emerald following closely. A Bleak Situation A Bleak Situation For the majority of the journey Bleak remained silent, much to Emerald’s surprise. Emerald constantly tried to start conversation, however each time he was met with a cold silence and cold stare. It became clear that Bleak was living up to her. The pair had walked roughly five miles away from the city. “So…” Emerald awkwardly started. “I noticed you don’t live in the city…” “Nope.” Bleak replied for the first time, her voice was cold and emotionless. “Too many ponies living there for my liking.” “Huh…” Emerald’s voice froze up, a sudden realization hit him. “Are you a…” “Am I a..?” Bleak’s replied curiously. “You know…” Emerald swallowed his fear. “A witch.” Bleak stopped in her tracks and chuckled. “A witch? You think I am a witch?” Bleak sighed loudly and shook her head. “And what makes you think that?” Bleak furiously barked. “Is it my name? Is it because I don’t live in a city?” “Well..!” Emerald began to panic. “Because…” Bleak calmed down and began chucking. “You’re right. Perhaps I underestimated you. What gave it away?” “Uh…” Emerald thought for a brief moment, the realization that he was working for a witch only just starting to settle in. “The sudden shift in your behaviour that, and I know that there are no villages this way for five days.” “Hmmp, well I guess that’s my fault for thinking you were a simple lug.” Bleak turned around smiled at Emerald. “I misjudged you.” “Wha..?” Emerald stumbled back slightly. “You thought I was a lug?” “Well, you were the last pony in town. I mean, normally ponies who get left behind aren't normally… Smart.” Bleak chuckled coldly and Emerald chuckled nervously. Emerald stopped laughing and cleared his throat, much to his surprise Bleak stop laughing and gave him her attention. “I wasn’t left behind.” Emerald stated. “I was waiting for somepony. Not that it matters though, she never showed up.” “A love matter no doubt. That emotion is one of the main reasons why I avoid living in cities, too many ponies trying to get your affection. None of them seeing the bigger picture, or realizing how pitiful they look.” Bleak chuckled meekly and turned around. “Or bother to ever really ask what you are interested in.” The witch shook her head and continued walking. “Hey! What’s that supposed to mean?” Emerald shouted out as he started to chase after Bleak. “I’d rather not dwell on the matter.” Bleak shook her head. “We are nearly at my house.” “Alright…” Emerald gently rubbed his temple and sighed, Bleak continued to walk unfazed by Emerald’s attempts to pry information out of her. The two continued to walk for a few more hours until they arrived at a small pocket of dense woodland. The woodland was almost fully closed off, however a small break in the treeline allowed entrance into the thick overgrowth. Bleak lead Emerald through the overgrowth, the witch easily moved through the dense forest while Emerald struggled behind. Eventually the pair mad their way to a clearing with a large house in the centre. Emerald stopped and quickly took in the features of the mini-mansion, a pair of eerie blue torches lit the front door, all the windows were circular and the mini-mansion seemed to resemble an old gothic style complete with gargoyles towards the top. Bleak paused just before opening the door and turned around. “Before we go in, I have a quick… Test for you.” A cryptic smile overcame Bleak. “Tell me, did you ever do any sort of offensive magic while you were learning?” “Uh well…” Emerald started to sweat, the look Bleak was giving him made him feel unconfutable. “I guess they taught some basic stuff?” “Basic stuff?” Bleak’s smile turned sinister. “You don’t sound so sure of yourself.” The witch sighed and her horn started to glow a sickly green colour and a thick black mist began to seep out of it. “Bleak…” Emerald slowly began to walk backwards. “What are you doing?” The mist began to congeal around the house, slowly moving up floor by floor. Upon reaching the section of the house with the gargoyles the mist stopped rising and began to madly swirl around the house. “As I said Emerald this is just a little test.” Bleak coldly said. “In a few moments a gargoyle will come to life and jump down. If you do not find a way to stop it you will be torn to tiny pieces and make a mess on my lawn. We wouldn't want that now, would we?” The swirling mist began to discharge green bolts of lightning, these bolts crackled loudly as they struck the stone gargoyles. After a few moments three large bolts struck one of the gargoyles and the mist then dispersed. “What..?” Emerald heard a low creaking noise coming from the gargoyle that had been struck by the lightning, before the magician could react the stone monster sprung to life and leapt down to the ground and let out a fearsome roar. “Now Emerald I suggest you start thinking of a plan, these gargoyles can be rather vicious when attacking.” Bleak coldly remarked. Just as the witch finished talking the gargoyle sprang at Emerald, attempting to slash him with his a heavy stone claw. “Hey!” Emerald yelped as he jumped out of the way. However the gargoyle ignored him and immediately made a second attempt, this time landing the slash. Emerald recoiled in agony as he fell to the floor. The gargoyle roared loudly and jumped up into the air and landed next to Emerald. Emerald clenched his eye shut and quickly channelled a teleportation spell. Within the blink of an eye he found himself falling through the air above the clearing. The magician made an attempt to latch onto the roof of the house as he fell down however he lost his grip and slid off the house. “I don’t really see what you were trying to do there.” Bleak commented as she walked over to Emerald. “You know, the best defence is a good offence in this situation. Right?” Bleak laughed evilly and shook her head. “Well you have roughly five seconds before he finds you again, so make them count.” Emerald staged back onto four hooves, he could hear the gargoyle’s stone wings flapping nearby and he quickly began to ready himself for another spell. Emerald’s horn lit up blue and static energy began to snap and crackle off his horn. A small blue ball of energy ball started to form on the tip of Emerald’s horn, the ball quickly grew larger and larger until Emerald was struggling to keep it contained. Emerald heard the gargoyle land and launched the ball of energy into the gargoyle and was rewarded by an ear splitting scream when the ball of energy made contact. “I…” Emerald felt his legs give way and he collapsed on the floor, his eyes slowly began to shut as the rush from the fight began to wear off. The last thing he felt was a light trickle of blood running down his head. “Hm, I guess he had it in him.” Bleak flatly said to herself as she moved over to the unicorn. “Poor little thing, not used to fighting it seems.” Bleak chuckled evilly as she gently poked Emerald. The witch hauled Emerald up with her magic and took the magician inside. “Emerald… Wake up, please…” Emerald heard a familiar voice call out to him, he couldn't move or open his eyes. “Emerald…” The voice sounded sad, as if it had recently lost something. It only took Emerald a moment to realize why the voice was sad. “Emerald I'm sorry… I didn't mean to… Please just wake up.” Emerald tried to move but his body continued to ignore his request. Emerald could feel a presence near him, for a reason unknown to him he felt safe and secure. “I…” Emerald mumbled weakly. “I want… Where...” “You know I would do anything for you Emerald. I can’t imagine what you are going through right now to put you here, but I know it’s my fault.” The sad voice began to cry quietly. Emerald slowly began to regain control of his body, he opened his eyes. All he could see was a vast expense of white nothing and a black silhouette sat down next him, gently caressing his mane. “I'm so, so sorry…” A white tear fell from the eyes of the silhouette and vanished into the expanse. Emerald had many questions, where was he? Who was the silhouette? And why was it so upset over him? However he couldn't put his questions into words. “Where…” “Don’t tire yourself, just hear me out. One day, I will find you. I will apologize and I will make it up to you.” The silhouette said firmly. “And we will live like we planned. I promise.” Suddenly it started to make sense, the silhouette wasn't a figment of his imagination but White Light. While he wasn't dead he must have been close to it. The only place where seeing White Light in such a state would be the realm between life and death. “White…” Emerald mumbled softly. “You… Left me…” “It wasn't like that!” White hastily replied. “Please just…” “You abandoned me… When I needed you the most…” Emerald started to feel a rage burning in his heart, the white expanse was starting to turn black and the silhouette had gotten up and started to back up. “I needed you and you left me!” Emerald angrily shouted as he sprung up. “Emerald please! It wasn't like that! I'm sorry for what I did, but you must understand!” White argued back as Emerald start to approach her, however before he was able to reply he felt the floor shake. Emerald stopped dead in his tracks and fell to the ground, he was waking up. “Don’t worry Emerald, we’ll meet again. I don’t know where, I don’t know when. But I know we will meet again some sunny day.” White sang out as she slowly began to drift away. “White wait!” Emerald called out as he scrambled back up and tried to catch up. “Don’t leave me again…” Emerald fell down onto the floor and shut his eyes and shouted loudly into vast expense of nothingness. Author's Note Writing during the day because I can, muhahahaha. Although the gargoyle fight was rewritten about five times. Now to hope I didn't make too many grammar errors. Not used to the new keyboard yet... A Necessary Evil A Necessary Evil Emerald slowly opened his eyes, he was lying in a double bed in a large room. The room was lit by several torches, a chandelier and a toasty fireplace that was crackling softly. Drawn curtains hid a large window however Emerald could tell that it was late in the day. With a reluctant groan Emerald climbed out of his bed and walked over to a nearby dresser and examined himself in the mirror, surprisingly he showed no wounds from his encounter with the gargoyle. Happy that no permeant damage had been done Emerald decided to explore the room. There were two bookcases on either side of fireplace and a few trunks were stored under the bed. Emerald pulled one of the trunks out and opened it. Inside the trunk there were a few glass orbs of different shades and a silver staff with a finely cut emerald encased in a glass orb on the top. Without thinking Emerald took the staff out and inspected it closely. “Having fun looking through my junk?” Emerald heard Bleak call out. The witch was stood in the now open doorway. “Feel free to keep it. I have no use for it. Consider it a ‘well done for not being mauled’ from myself.” Bleak smiled slyly at Emerald and the chuckled gleefully. “Oh!” Emerald suddenly remembered the gargoyle had been brought to life by Bleak. “Why the heck did you even bring that monster to life!?” Emerald angrily inquired. “A test Emerald. A simple test. I needed to make sure you were properly taught. The last thing either of us want is for something to go wrong and an angry spirit appear and tear you to shreds before you can even consider what to do.” Bleak replied calmly. “And besides, do you really think I would have let it kill you?” “Yes in fact, I think you would of. And I think you would have laughed as it did so. You have no idea what I went through.” Emerald barked back. “I do.” Bleak flatly replied. “Do you honestly think I was blind to what was happening!?” Bleak’s turned angry for the first time since Emerald had met her. “So then, care to tell me who was visiting you?” “What..?” Emerald replied sounding confused. “You mean, when I was out?” “Yes. Something was in contact with you while you out cold. It stopped me from waking you up quicker.” Bleak swiftly moved across the room and pinned Emerald to the nearby wall and started to choke him. “So, who was it?” “No-one…” Emerald struggled with his own magic against Bleak’s, however the witch was clearly more used to using her magic aggressively. “Alright… I was telling you why I was still in the tavern on the way in… It was her, the mare who left me behind. I don’t know how she did it but she did.” “Hmmp.” Bleak dropped Emerald. “Now, I trust you and believe you. I expect you to do the same.” Bleak moved back to the door. “When you’re ready, meet me in the main room.” The witch chuckled grimy as she walked out the room, leaving Emerald alone. Emerald sighed and waited a minute before slowly walking out of the room, the bedroom was at the end of a long corridor. The corridor was filled with several large paintings, Emerald examined the first one. At first he assumed it to be a painting of Bleak’s mother due to the old style of clothing and the date on the frame, however much to his surprise the title read ‘Countess Blight.’ Emerald continued to walk down the corridor, examining each painting as he went. Much to his disbelief they all appeared to be paintings of Bleak, each at a different point in time. “Surprised?” Emerald heard Bleak’s voice nearby. “So you figured out how to live forever then?” Emerald curiously asked. Bleak chuckled and walked up to the magician as he examined the paintings. “I guess you could say I have, it’s either immortality or long life.” Bleak stated. “Either way, I am happy.” The pair started to walk down the corridor, Emerald remained focused on the paintings. Each one of them was a small snapshot into the witch’s life. “I’ve known a lot of powerful ponies in my time. I even know royalty.” “You know the king!?” Emerald loudly remarked in disbelief. “Would I lie to you? It’s amazing how many ponies want to know you when you have lived for as long as I have.” Bleak said coldly. “At the end of the corridor you can see my newer paintings.” Sure enough, as the pair walked towards the exit Emerald picked out a painting of Bleak standing next to the current monarch. “Wow. You know King Grey-Heart.” Emerald remarked. “I’m shocked you never brought this up before.” “I’m more of a resource then a friend. When the King has an issue where dark magic is needed, he just gets me to clear it up.” Bleak stated. “It’s not like I can just waltz into the royal palace and start preforming rituals or anything.” “I see…” Emerald sighed. “I have to wonder, what do you do that qualifies you as a witch? I mean, I haven’t see you doing anything remotely bad. Aside from bring a gargoyle to life and make it attack me.” Emerald commented. “I could kill you now without breaking a sweat. Would you like me to do that?” Bleak coldly replied. “Or perhaps I could trail it out, poison you, take control of your mind or send you to an infernal realm. Maybe if you didn’t spend so much time being half dead you would see.” “I didn’t mean any offense…” Emerald meekly replied. “I was just wondering what you do.” “I do a bit of everything. I dabble in a bit dark magic yes, I enjoy making poisons that could wipe out a whole village if a single vial was introduced into the water supply and I can summon demons to do my biding.” Bleak proudly explained. “I could go into what dark magic I use, but I doubt you want to be here for the rest of your life.” “Can’t you just do what you did to get long life and do it on me?” Emerald inquired. “I could… But what have you done to deserve it?” Bleak teased. “Maybe later, when you have proven yourself.” “Didn’t think you would.” Emerald flatly said. “It was worth a shot.” “I never said I wouldn’t. Just not right now. If I went around giving out potions that make you live forever it wouldn’t really be a unique ability.” Bleak stated. “And besides, it takes a while to gather all the components for the potion.” The witch gently patted Emerald of the back and left the corridor. “Huh, Bleak Blight the Countess. Still sounds funny.” Emerald remarked to himself as he left the corridor. Emerald entered a large room. Bleak was sat down in the middle of the room on a sofa and was reading a book. Several large bookshelves lined one of the walls and a large stairway lead to the second floor. Emerald slowly shuffled over to Bleak who hadn’t noticed Emerald yet. Emerald cleared his throat rather loudly to get Bleak’s attention. “Yes?” Bleak replied, sighing and shutting her book. “Oh I know! You’re looking for work. Well I have a vast amount of alchemy ingredients in my brewing room. If you could sort them out I might be able to find something more fun for you.” Bleak opened her book and began reading it. “Second door on the second floor. Right side.” “Uh…” Emerald rubbed his forehead and sighed. “I guess I can do that.” “Good. Would be a bit pointless getting you here if you couldn’t.” Bleak replied without taking her eyes away from her book. Emerald sighed again and head towards the stairs, the magician slowly ascended the stairs to the second floor. The landing was clean and Emerald could see the majority of the main room from it. Emerald looked the right and saw several doors, he headed to the second one and gently opened it. The as soon as Emerald walked into the dark room several torches illuminated it. There were several shelves filled with jars containing various items and a large distilling table with several green flames and various points for boiling liquids. Emerald moved to the shelves with the jars. While the jars were labelled they didn’t appear to be any sort of organization. Emerald levitated a random jar towards him and inspected it. The jar was packed with a strange flora that Emerald had not seen before. “Hmmm, grimbloom.” Emerald read the label out loud and then placed the jar down. With a reluctant sigh Emerald began sorting the jars out alphabetically, feeling more like a cleaner than an apprentice. After hours of sorting and rearranging Emerald had finished, just as he placed the last jar on the shelf the door to the room swung open. “Hm, finished already?” “Wha?” Emerald fell back, nearly knocking all the well placed jars off the shelf. “Have you been waiting for me to finish?” Bleak chuckled lightly and moved into the room, she was wearing saddlebags that were packed full of various leaves, flowers and herbs. “No, I have kept myself busy. I was out gathering some more herbs. I just happened to walk in just as you finished.” Bleak remarked. “I must say, I am rather impressed. I should start expecting more.” “Huh?” Emerald shook his head in disbelief. “Well for starters, you didn’t take anything. That would have meant removing your body and restocking the supply.” Bleak chuckled. “Some of this stuff is addictive, with lethal consequences. Take this for example.” The witch levitated one of the jars down and inspected it. “This is brain rot. A highly addictive root that decays your brain. Even taking the smallest bite will leave you with permeant damage. However brew it with yeast and various hops and you have a tasty drink.” “Wait, when you say a drink… Do you mean alcohol?” Emerald asked curiously. “Yes, I know a few taverns that stock the stuff. It’s good stuff if you want to forget something… Seeing as you won’t remember the last month.” Bleak happily replied. “Not that I will give you any.” “Wait, you have some?” Emerald half-shouted in disbelief. “Well yes. I have to let loose some time.” Bleak flatly responded, the witch chuckled and placed the jar back neatly in its place. “I guess you’re full of surprises then…” Emerald rubbed his neck. “I guess we both had expectation that were smashed.” “Oh, do tell.” Bleak insisted. “What did you expect of me?” “Well… To be honest, not much. A bit crazier and a bit less pony. You seem like you would fit in any city.” Emerald explained. “Minus making poison and dark magic.” “Hm, you think I’m normal then?” Bleak sighed. “Nopony is normal in this day and age Emerald.” “But, you don’t really do anything overly evil.” Emerald stated. “You don’t kidnap ponies, you don’t turn them into frogs, you don’t raise the dead and you don’t attack any town or cities.” “Sorry, but who made you the grand judicator of what’s good and bad?” Bleak exclaimed. “And besides, if I did anything like that ponies would hunt me down.” Bleak chuckled and left the room. “You can see yourself to your room right?” “Yeah…” Emerald mumbled quietly as he heard Bleak descend the stairs. With a hefty sigh the magician left the room and made his way to his room. Much to his surprise Emerald hadn’t spent as long as he had though in the alchemy room. The sun was just about to finish setting on the horizon and the torches were still burning brightly. Emerald noticed the staff he had picked up earlier and the memory of Bleak choking him suddenly came rushing back into his head, Emerald picked up the staff with his magic and inspected it closely. The amount of effort that had been put into crafting the silver and engraving it was exquisite and the emerald that sat on the top was cleanly into a perfect square. Emerald then moved over to the bookcases and inspected some of the books, they all seemed to be journals on various experiments done by Bleak over the years and a few were on magical theory and offensive magic. Picking up a selection of books Emerald sat down on his bed and began to flick through the pages. Author's Note Phew, took a while to get my new/old laptop working. Hence the delay.
The Start of Something New Author's Note Writing late at night is a bad habit of mine. I keep meaning to write during the day but I can't seem to find the time. As with all my work expect errors that are grammatical, it's not my strongest suit. Also despite the AU tag I intend for this to cross over to the MLP universe in the latter parts of the story, just not right now hence the tag. Also sorry if this comes off as cringe-y I haven't been writing for awhile... Also late night writing and a serious case of ageing. The Start of Something New Emerald Magic had studied neutral magic for the better part of his life, his ability in practical sessions in unmatched however he lacks the education to prove it in theory. Meanwhile one of his fellow students, White Light excels at using holy magic and can explain her magic in theory. Despite coming from two different schools, the two get along well in the only magical collage in the city, even going as far to make plans for their future. “Hey Emerald chin up.” Emerald looked up and saw White Light, she was as beautiful as ever even with all the stress of exams. Her mane was long and flowed elegantly and was as white as the purest of snows. A small pearl necklace sat calmly around her neck drawing attention away from her regal sapphire eyes. Despite her coat being a slightly darker shade of white it all blended well and her cutie mark resembled a pair of angelic wings with a halo above them. “We have our plans right? I will pick you up in a weeks’ time… And then we can get started.” White Light winked slyly at Emerald. “I wish I had passed though…” Emerald sighed, he was a mess. His normally well-kept mane was a mess and was growing unchecked. His emerald eyes were surrounded by bags from late night study sessions and his tail was frayed from being neglected all this being caused by the stress of exams. His coat was a mix of purple and blue and his mane was a solid chestnut colour. “It annoys me that I only failed by a few marks…” Emerald brought a piece of paper to White Light’s eye level. “No need to act so glum Emerald…” White Light ignored the paper and sat next to the sulking colt. “We planned for this, remember?” White lightly gently placed her hooves around Emerald and pulled him close. Emerald sighed and returned the hug. “See? Everything is going to be alright...” Emerald sighed to himself he surveyed the bar, the only other pony in the bar was the tavern owner and he was cleaning a mug. “I should have known it was too good to be true…” Emerald muttered to himself. He had spent the past seven weeks waiting for White Light to show up and each week his hope and spirit grew weaker. “Eh? What’s that Emerald?” The tavern owner hollered over from behind the bar. “Nothing…” Emerald sighed loudly and slowly got up. “I'm thinking of calling it quits, how’s my tab?” The tavern owner shook his head. “Don’t worry about it… Just don’t cause any trouble.” Emerald moved over to the bar. “At least let me tidy up, it’s the least I can do.” Emerald levitated a few mugs and rags into the air and began cleaning. The tavern simply finished cleaning his mug and nodded. “So, how long has it been then? Seven months now?” The tavern owner inquired as Emerald effortlessly cleaned mugs. “Seven and a half now. I’ve gotten over it though.” Emerald lied to himself, in truth he had hoped White Light would walk into the tavern every day and take him away. “Seems like yesterday you showed up all bright eyed and happy. You were so sure of what the future held.” The tavern owner reminisced. “What happened to you?” “I don’t know…” Emerald groaned. “There was this mare, we had plans for the future… She just, left me.” Emerald chuckled quietly. “We spent years planning out our lives and she just… Ditched it.” “Heh mares, not worth the trouble if you asked me.” The tavern owner chuckled joyfully. “My first wife cost me my house in greater Dawn, the really expensive part of the city. Second wife tried to still the tavern, I learnt my lesson by the third.” “But she was different.” Emerald reasoned. “We had planned ever small detail. From the moment we left the collage to the moment we died. We even planned to have foals at some point. I guess there are something’s in life you…” Emerald was cut off by the door to the tavern swinging open. A cloaked figure stood in the door, completely masked by the darkness outside. Bother Emerald and the tavern owner gave a puzzled look. “Erhm.” The pony was undoubtedly a mare from her voice, just not the mare Emerald was anticipating for though. “I take it happy hour is over?” The mare coldly laughed, her voice was jagged as if she had been running. “Service stopped three hours ago.” The tavern owner proclaimed. “I take it you have other business here?” “How perceptive of you.” The mare hissed, her voice went from jagged too cold as she regained her energy. “Yes, I have been scouring the local area for an apprentice, in my neck of the woods they are hard to come by.” “As I see.” The tavern owner flatly replied. “Well we don’t have any left. Emerald here keeps the bar tidy.” “Truly?” The mare curiously queried as her gaze moved over to Emerald. “Well…” Emerald felt his throat go dry, the mares stare was unnerving. “I have been here for the past seven months.” “Working?” The mare continued her inquisition. “I take it that a lot of unicorns are finding themselves in dead end jobs?” “Well, it’s not exactly a dead end job.” The tavern own spoke up. “I offer him shelter and food. In return he makes tidy up the place a lot easier.” “Y-Yeah…” Emerald stuttered, the mare eyes still fixated on him. “Well…” “Well?” The mare grinned slyly. “It’s not like the tavern needs me…” Emerald slowly concluded. The mares grin grew malicious as she pulled her cloak’s hood down, revealing a long flowing ebony mane. The mare moved over to emerald and held out her hoof. Emerald took it and shook it. “Bleak, Bleak Blight.” Bleak said as she greeted Emerald. “Oh!” Emerald snapped himself away from staring at Bleak momentarily. “Emerald, Emerald Magic.” Emerald shook his head, he took another quick glance a Bleak. The mares mane looked like a fine black silk and was kept in two bunches with tails flowing down, her eyes were an amber colour and her coat was a very dark grey colour. “Alright now Emerald, let’s not get ahead of ourselves.” The tavern owner interrupted, giving Emerald a worried look and a frantic gesture as he did so. “Mind if we have a quick chat in the other room. “Go ahead, I will wait right here.” Bleak said emotionlessly. The tavern owner guided Emerald into the kitchen. “What are you doing!?” The tavern owner bellowed. “I’m moving on.” Emerald explained. “It’s been seven months. I think it’s been established that White has given up on me.” “Yes, but I doubt that going with the… Mare out there would be any better. ‘Bleak Blight,’ who has a name like that?” The tavern owner hastily replied. “Look, I'm not saying don’t move on. I'm just saying this might not be your best option.” “And why does it matter to you? I take it you have had some experience with this mare before then? Otherwise…” “I have.” The tavern owner replied. “Every few years she shows up. Always looking the same. Always looking for an assistant.” “Oh…” Emerald froze up. “I had no idea…” “Yeah. Well I never expected her to show up, whether she find an assistant is up for debate. She normally shows up a few months after the last apprentice leaves.” “Do you think it’s a good idea to go with her?” Emerald slowly asked. “I mean, if she has spent all that time look for an assistant but not found one…” “At the end of the day, it’s your call Emerald. I’m not going to stop you.” The tavern owner reassured. “I just wanted you to understand why I am little concerned.” “Alright, I know what I want to do.” Emerald positively said as he turned around with and with a confident nod he walked out of the room. Bleak was stood where she was when Emerald left. “So Emerald, what took you so long?” “I was just discussing something with my boss. I have decided that I will go with you.” Emerald began to feel his confidence turn into doubt when Bleak face lit up. “Oh really now?” Bleak chuckled menacingly. “Very well then, let’s head out. It is a long trek to my house.” The tavern owner emerged from the kitchen. “Well Emerald it’s been a pleasure having you here. I guess you’re onto greener pastures right?” The tavern owner laughed heartily and patted Emerald on the back. “Well best of luck. Maybe you can drop down sometime?” “Yeah…” Emerald sighed. “Well I guess this is it then…” Bleak rolled her eyes and moved over to the door. “As I said, it’s a lengthy trip. We better get started.” Bleak coldly said, disregarding any sentiment in the parting. The mare opened the door with her magic and left the tavern with Emerald following closely.
A Bleak Situation A Bleak Situation For the majority of the journey Bleak remained silent, much to Emerald’s surprise. Emerald constantly tried to start conversation, however each time he was met with a cold silence and cold stare. It became clear that Bleak was living up to her. The pair had walked roughly five miles away from the city. “So…” Emerald awkwardly started. “I noticed you don’t live in the city…” “Nope.” Bleak replied for the first time, her voice was cold and emotionless. “Too many ponies living there for my liking.” “Huh…” Emerald’s voice froze up, a sudden realization hit him. “Are you a…” “Am I a..?” Bleak’s replied curiously. “You know…” Emerald swallowed his fear. “A witch.” Bleak stopped in her tracks and chuckled. “A witch? You think I am a witch?” Bleak sighed loudly and shook her head. “And what makes you think that?” Bleak furiously barked. “Is it my name? Is it because I don’t live in a city?” “Well..!” Emerald began to panic. “Because…” Bleak calmed down and began chucking. “You’re right. Perhaps I underestimated you. What gave it away?” “Uh…” Emerald thought for a brief moment, the realization that he was working for a witch only just starting to settle in. “The sudden shift in your behaviour that, and I know that there are no villages this way for five days.” “Hmmp, well I guess that’s my fault for thinking you were a simple lug.” Bleak turned around smiled at Emerald. “I misjudged you.” “Wha..?” Emerald stumbled back slightly. “You thought I was a lug?” “Well, you were the last pony in town. I mean, normally ponies who get left behind aren't normally… Smart.” Bleak chuckled coldly and Emerald chuckled nervously. Emerald stopped laughing and cleared his throat, much to his surprise Bleak stop laughing and gave him her attention. “I wasn’t left behind.” Emerald stated. “I was waiting for somepony. Not that it matters though, she never showed up.” “A love matter no doubt. That emotion is one of the main reasons why I avoid living in cities, too many ponies trying to get your affection. None of them seeing the bigger picture, or realizing how pitiful they look.” Bleak chuckled meekly and turned around. “Or bother to ever really ask what you are interested in.” The witch shook her head and continued walking. “Hey! What’s that supposed to mean?” Emerald shouted out as he started to chase after Bleak. “I’d rather not dwell on the matter.” Bleak shook her head. “We are nearly at my house.” “Alright…” Emerald gently rubbed his temple and sighed, Bleak continued to walk unfazed by Emerald’s attempts to pry information out of her. The two continued to walk for a few more hours until they arrived at a small pocket of dense woodland. The woodland was almost fully closed off, however a small break in the treeline allowed entrance into the thick overgrowth. Bleak lead Emerald through the overgrowth, the witch easily moved through the dense forest while Emerald struggled behind. Eventually the pair mad their way to a clearing with a large house in the centre. Emerald stopped and quickly took in the features of the mini-mansion, a pair of eerie blue torches lit the front door, all the windows were circular and the mini-mansion seemed to resemble an old gothic style complete with gargoyles towards the top. Bleak paused just before opening the door and turned around. “Before we go in, I have a quick… Test for you.” A cryptic smile overcame Bleak. “Tell me, did you ever do any sort of offensive magic while you were learning?” “Uh well…” Emerald started to sweat, the look Bleak was giving him made him feel unconfutable. “I guess they taught some basic stuff?” “Basic stuff?” Bleak’s smile turned sinister. “You don’t sound so sure of yourself.” The witch sighed and her horn started to glow a sickly green colour and a thick black mist began to seep out of it. “Bleak…” Emerald slowly began to walk backwards. “What are you doing?” The mist began to congeal around the house, slowly moving up floor by floor. Upon reaching the section of the house with the gargoyles the mist stopped rising and began to madly swirl around the house. “As I said Emerald this is just a little test.” Bleak coldly said. “In a few moments a gargoyle will come to life and jump down. If you do not find a way to stop it you will be torn to tiny pieces and make a mess on my lawn. We wouldn't want that now, would we?” The swirling mist began to discharge green bolts of lightning, these bolts crackled loudly as they struck the stone gargoyles. After a few moments three large bolts struck one of the gargoyles and the mist then dispersed. “What..?” Emerald heard a low creaking noise coming from the gargoyle that had been struck by the lightning, before the magician could react the stone monster sprung to life and leapt down to the ground and let out a fearsome roar. “Now Emerald I suggest you start thinking of a plan, these gargoyles can be rather vicious when attacking.” Bleak coldly remarked. Just as the witch finished talking the gargoyle sprang at Emerald, attempting to slash him with his a heavy stone claw. “Hey!” Emerald yelped as he jumped out of the way. However the gargoyle ignored him and immediately made a second attempt, this time landing the slash. Emerald recoiled in agony as he fell to the floor. The gargoyle roared loudly and jumped up into the air and landed next to Emerald. Emerald clenched his eye shut and quickly channelled a teleportation spell. Within the blink of an eye he found himself falling through the air above the clearing. The magician made an attempt to latch onto the roof of the house as he fell down however he lost his grip and slid off the house. “I don’t really see what you were trying to do there.” Bleak commented as she walked over to Emerald. “You know, the best defence is a good offence in this situation. Right?” Bleak laughed evilly and shook her head. “Well you have roughly five seconds before he finds you again, so make them count.” Emerald staged back onto four hooves, he could hear the gargoyle’s stone wings flapping nearby and he quickly began to ready himself for another spell. Emerald’s horn lit up blue and static energy began to snap and crackle off his horn. A small blue ball of energy ball started to form on the tip of Emerald’s horn, the ball quickly grew larger and larger until Emerald was struggling to keep it contained. Emerald heard the gargoyle land and launched the ball of energy into the gargoyle and was rewarded by an ear splitting scream when the ball of energy made contact. “I…” Emerald felt his legs give way and he collapsed on the floor, his eyes slowly began to shut as the rush from the fight began to wear off. The last thing he felt was a light trickle of blood running down his head. “Hm, I guess he had it in him.” Bleak flatly said to herself as she moved over to the unicorn. “Poor little thing, not used to fighting it seems.” Bleak chuckled evilly as she gently poked Emerald. The witch hauled Emerald up with her magic and took the magician inside. “Emerald… Wake up, please…” Emerald heard a familiar voice call out to him, he couldn't move or open his eyes. “Emerald…” The voice sounded sad, as if it had recently lost something. It only took Emerald a moment to realize why the voice was sad. “Emerald I'm sorry… I didn't mean to… Please just wake up.” Emerald tried to move but his body continued to ignore his request. Emerald could feel a presence near him, for a reason unknown to him he felt safe and secure. “I…” Emerald mumbled weakly. “I want… Where...” “You know I would do anything for you Emerald. I can’t imagine what you are going through right now to put you here, but I know it’s my fault.” The sad voice began to cry quietly. Emerald slowly began to regain control of his body, he opened his eyes. All he could see was a vast expense of white nothing and a black silhouette sat down next him, gently caressing his mane. “I'm so, so sorry…” A white tear fell from the eyes of the silhouette and vanished into the expanse. Emerald had many questions, where was he? Who was the silhouette? And why was it so upset over him? However he couldn't put his questions into words. “Where…” “Don’t tire yourself, just hear me out. One day, I will find you. I will apologize and I will make it up to you.” The silhouette said firmly. “And we will live like we planned. I promise.” Suddenly it started to make sense, the silhouette wasn't a figment of his imagination but White Light. While he wasn't dead he must have been close to it. The only place where seeing White Light in such a state would be the realm between life and death. “White…” Emerald mumbled softly. “You… Left me…” “It wasn't like that!” White hastily replied. “Please just…” “You abandoned me… When I needed you the most…” Emerald started to feel a rage burning in his heart, the white expanse was starting to turn black and the silhouette had gotten up and started to back up. “I needed you and you left me!” Emerald angrily shouted as he sprung up. “Emerald please! It wasn't like that! I'm sorry for what I did, but you must understand!” White argued back as Emerald start to approach her, however before he was able to reply he felt the floor shake. Emerald stopped dead in his tracks and fell to the ground, he was waking up. “Don’t worry Emerald, we’ll meet again. I don’t know where, I don’t know when. But I know we will meet again some sunny day.” White sang out as she slowly began to drift away. “White wait!” Emerald called out as he scrambled back up and tried to catch up. “Don’t leave me again…” Emerald fell down onto the floor and shut his eyes and shouted loudly into vast expense of nothingness. Author's Note Writing during the day because I can, muhahahaha. Although the gargoyle fight was rewritten about five times. Now to hope I didn't make too many grammar errors. Not used to the new keyboard yet...
A Necessary Evil A Necessary Evil Emerald slowly opened his eyes, he was lying in a double bed in a large room. The room was lit by several torches, a chandelier and a toasty fireplace that was crackling softly. Drawn curtains hid a large window however Emerald could tell that it was late in the day. With a reluctant groan Emerald climbed out of his bed and walked over to a nearby dresser and examined himself in the mirror, surprisingly he showed no wounds from his encounter with the gargoyle. Happy that no permeant damage had been done Emerald decided to explore the room. There were two bookcases on either side of fireplace and a few trunks were stored under the bed. Emerald pulled one of the trunks out and opened it. Inside the trunk there were a few glass orbs of different shades and a silver staff with a finely cut emerald encased in a glass orb on the top. Without thinking Emerald took the staff out and inspected it closely. “Having fun looking through my junk?” Emerald heard Bleak call out. The witch was stood in the now open doorway. “Feel free to keep it. I have no use for it. Consider it a ‘well done for not being mauled’ from myself.” Bleak smiled slyly at Emerald and the chuckled gleefully. “Oh!” Emerald suddenly remembered the gargoyle had been brought to life by Bleak. “Why the heck did you even bring that monster to life!?” Emerald angrily inquired. “A test Emerald. A simple test. I needed to make sure you were properly taught. The last thing either of us want is for something to go wrong and an angry spirit appear and tear you to shreds before you can even consider what to do.” Bleak replied calmly. “And besides, do you really think I would have let it kill you?” “Yes in fact, I think you would of. And I think you would have laughed as it did so. You have no idea what I went through.” Emerald barked back. “I do.” Bleak flatly replied. “Do you honestly think I was blind to what was happening!?” Bleak’s turned angry for the first time since Emerald had met her. “So then, care to tell me who was visiting you?” “What..?” Emerald replied sounding confused. “You mean, when I was out?” “Yes. Something was in contact with you while you out cold. It stopped me from waking you up quicker.” Bleak swiftly moved across the room and pinned Emerald to the nearby wall and started to choke him. “So, who was it?” “No-one…” Emerald struggled with his own magic against Bleak’s, however the witch was clearly more used to using her magic aggressively. “Alright… I was telling you why I was still in the tavern on the way in… It was her, the mare who left me behind. I don’t know how she did it but she did.” “Hmmp.” Bleak dropped Emerald. “Now, I trust you and believe you. I expect you to do the same.” Bleak moved back to the door. “When you’re ready, meet me in the main room.” The witch chuckled grimy as she walked out the room, leaving Emerald alone. Emerald sighed and waited a minute before slowly walking out of the room, the bedroom was at the end of a long corridor. The corridor was filled with several large paintings, Emerald examined the first one. At first he assumed it to be a painting of Bleak’s mother due to the old style of clothing and the date on the frame, however much to his surprise the title read ‘Countess Blight.’ Emerald continued to walk down the corridor, examining each painting as he went. Much to his disbelief they all appeared to be paintings of Bleak, each at a different point in time. “Surprised?” Emerald heard Bleak’s voice nearby. “So you figured out how to live forever then?” Emerald curiously asked. Bleak chuckled and walked up to the magician as he examined the paintings. “I guess you could say I have, it’s either immortality or long life.” Bleak stated. “Either way, I am happy.” The pair started to walk down the corridor, Emerald remained focused on the paintings. Each one of them was a small snapshot into the witch’s life. “I’ve known a lot of powerful ponies in my time. I even know royalty.” “You know the king!?” Emerald loudly remarked in disbelief. “Would I lie to you? It’s amazing how many ponies want to know you when you have lived for as long as I have.” Bleak said coldly. “At the end of the corridor you can see my newer paintings.” Sure enough, as the pair walked towards the exit Emerald picked out a painting of Bleak standing next to the current monarch. “Wow. You know King Grey-Heart.” Emerald remarked. “I’m shocked you never brought this up before.” “I’m more of a resource then a friend. When the King has an issue where dark magic is needed, he just gets me to clear it up.” Bleak stated. “It’s not like I can just waltz into the royal palace and start preforming rituals or anything.” “I see…” Emerald sighed. “I have to wonder, what do you do that qualifies you as a witch? I mean, I haven’t see you doing anything remotely bad. Aside from bring a gargoyle to life and make it attack me.” Emerald commented. “I could kill you now without breaking a sweat. Would you like me to do that?” Bleak coldly replied. “Or perhaps I could trail it out, poison you, take control of your mind or send you to an infernal realm. Maybe if you didn’t spend so much time being half dead you would see.” “I didn’t mean any offense…” Emerald meekly replied. “I was just wondering what you do.” “I do a bit of everything. I dabble in a bit dark magic yes, I enjoy making poisons that could wipe out a whole village if a single vial was introduced into the water supply and I can summon demons to do my biding.” Bleak proudly explained. “I could go into what dark magic I use, but I doubt you want to be here for the rest of your life.” “Can’t you just do what you did to get long life and do it on me?” Emerald inquired. “I could… But what have you done to deserve it?” Bleak teased. “Maybe later, when you have proven yourself.” “Didn’t think you would.” Emerald flatly said. “It was worth a shot.” “I never said I wouldn’t. Just not right now. If I went around giving out potions that make you live forever it wouldn’t really be a unique ability.” Bleak stated. “And besides, it takes a while to gather all the components for the potion.” The witch gently patted Emerald of the back and left the corridor. “Huh, Bleak Blight the Countess. Still sounds funny.” Emerald remarked to himself as he left the corridor. Emerald entered a large room. Bleak was sat down in the middle of the room on a sofa and was reading a book. Several large bookshelves lined one of the walls and a large stairway lead to the second floor. Emerald slowly shuffled over to Bleak who hadn’t noticed Emerald yet. Emerald cleared his throat rather loudly to get Bleak’s attention. “Yes?” Bleak replied, sighing and shutting her book. “Oh I know! You’re looking for work. Well I have a vast amount of alchemy ingredients in my brewing room. If you could sort them out I might be able to find something more fun for you.” Bleak opened her book and began reading it. “Second door on the second floor. Right side.” “Uh…” Emerald rubbed his forehead and sighed. “I guess I can do that.” “Good. Would be a bit pointless getting you here if you couldn’t.” Bleak replied without taking her eyes away from her book. Emerald sighed again and head towards the stairs, the magician slowly ascended the stairs to the second floor. The landing was clean and Emerald could see the majority of the main room from it. Emerald looked the right and saw several doors, he headed to the second one and gently opened it. The as soon as Emerald walked into the dark room several torches illuminated it. There were several shelves filled with jars containing various items and a large distilling table with several green flames and various points for boiling liquids. Emerald moved to the shelves with the jars. While the jars were labelled they didn’t appear to be any sort of organization. Emerald levitated a random jar towards him and inspected it. The jar was packed with a strange flora that Emerald had not seen before. “Hmmm, grimbloom.” Emerald read the label out loud and then placed the jar down. With a reluctant sigh Emerald began sorting the jars out alphabetically, feeling more like a cleaner than an apprentice. After hours of sorting and rearranging Emerald had finished, just as he placed the last jar on the shelf the door to the room swung open. “Hm, finished already?” “Wha?” Emerald fell back, nearly knocking all the well placed jars off the shelf. “Have you been waiting for me to finish?” Bleak chuckled lightly and moved into the room, she was wearing saddlebags that were packed full of various leaves, flowers and herbs. “No, I have kept myself busy. I was out gathering some more herbs. I just happened to walk in just as you finished.” Bleak remarked. “I must say, I am rather impressed. I should start expecting more.” “Huh?” Emerald shook his head in disbelief. “Well for starters, you didn’t take anything. That would have meant removing your body and restocking the supply.” Bleak chuckled. “Some of this stuff is addictive, with lethal consequences. Take this for example.” The witch levitated one of the jars down and inspected it. “This is brain rot. A highly addictive root that decays your brain. Even taking the smallest bite will leave you with permeant damage. However brew it with yeast and various hops and you have a tasty drink.” “Wait, when you say a drink… Do you mean alcohol?” Emerald asked curiously. “Yes, I know a few taverns that stock the stuff. It’s good stuff if you want to forget something… Seeing as you won’t remember the last month.” Bleak happily replied. “Not that I will give you any.” “Wait, you have some?” Emerald half-shouted in disbelief. “Well yes. I have to let loose some time.” Bleak flatly responded, the witch chuckled and placed the jar back neatly in its place. “I guess you’re full of surprises then…” Emerald rubbed his neck. “I guess we both had expectation that were smashed.” “Oh, do tell.” Bleak insisted. “What did you expect of me?” “Well… To be honest, not much. A bit crazier and a bit less pony. You seem like you would fit in any city.” Emerald explained. “Minus making poison and dark magic.” “Hm, you think I’m normal then?” Bleak sighed. “Nopony is normal in this day and age Emerald.” “But, you don’t really do anything overly evil.” Emerald stated. “You don’t kidnap ponies, you don’t turn them into frogs, you don’t raise the dead and you don’t attack any town or cities.” “Sorry, but who made you the grand judicator of what’s good and bad?” Bleak exclaimed. “And besides, if I did anything like that ponies would hunt me down.” Bleak chuckled and left the room. “You can see yourself to your room right?” “Yeah…” Emerald mumbled quietly as he heard Bleak descend the stairs. With a hefty sigh the magician left the room and made his way to his room. Much to his surprise Emerald hadn’t spent as long as he had though in the alchemy room. The sun was just about to finish setting on the horizon and the torches were still burning brightly. Emerald noticed the staff he had picked up earlier and the memory of Bleak choking him suddenly came rushing back into his head, Emerald picked up the staff with his magic and inspected it closely. The amount of effort that had been put into crafting the silver and engraving it was exquisite and the emerald that sat on the top was cleanly into a perfect square. Emerald then moved over to the bookcases and inspected some of the books, they all seemed to be journals on various experiments done by Bleak over the years and a few were on magical theory and offensive magic. Picking up a selection of books Emerald sat down on his bed and began to flick through the pages. Author's Note Phew, took a while to get my new/old laptop working. Hence the delay.
