Martin: Dark Inferno

by CrypticMetaphor

Rating: teen
Tags: Main 6, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Romance, Princess Luna, Original Character, Comedy, Random, Adventure, Princess Celestia
Length: 19770

The Third entry in the Martin Chronicles

Martin has turned his back upon The Aspect of Destiny and strange occurrences are surfacing on both Equestria and Earth. Martin has agreed to bring Alan with him to Equestria but they both begin to notice the barriers between dimensions are breaking and a powerful enemy is surfacing which not even Martin or The Mane six can stop unless they unite once more with The Aspects. But will Martin forgive the transgression that Sortitus visited upon Lupe and will they defeat the entity known as Averius before all of creation itself is reduced to embers?

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The Third Instalment of The Martin Chronicles

Published 2012-08-05 10:44:01 UTC
Last updated 2012-09-24 03:10:04 UTC

Chapter 2: Thunderbots & Lightning

Martin was sitting on a lawn chair with the scroll open in his hand as he read it for the 19th time, “Martin Fairbridges, for your outstanding heroism in the face of adversity and your heroic achievements Princess Celestia of Equestria has decreed for you to be knighted before the congregation of royals from the various kingdoms. For more details on this momentous occasion please contact either both or one of the royal sisters immediately or at your earliest convenience.”

Alan was the opposite of Martin’s surprised and slightly deflated disposition, “DUDE! You’re going to be knighted by Princess Celestia! THIS IS THE BIGGEST HONOUR A HUMAN IS PROBABLY EVER GOING TO GET!!”

Shining Armour nodded next to Alan, “Alan is right being knighted is a great honour.”

Applejack was standing beside Martin trying to snap him out of it, “Martin you okay?”

Martin mumbled in response, “I’m going to be knighted…ME.”

Twilight nodded, “That’s why I sent you the message when I got it a few hours ago.”

Rarity was smiling, “We wanted to surprise you.”

Martin gave a nervous grin, “Well it worked I am REALLY surprised.”

Pinkie was all smiles, “Well it gets better because we have ANOTHER surprise for you!”

Rarity walked toward Martin and produced a box with a red ribbon wrapped around it, “I worked night and day on it I hope you enjoy it!”

Martin opened the box and his eyes widened, “Is this…”

Alan looked amazed, “Nice.”

Rarity raised a hoof, “You are not to wear that until the ceremony because I don’t want it dirty. We all know you have a tendency to go overboard with your powers.”

Martin nodded as he shut the box, “true enough.”

Cadance looked at Alan, “Speaking of abilities what can you do?”

Alan was very confused at the comment until Twilight smiled, “Oh yeah! Martin did you tell Alan about-“

Martin cut her off with a face palm, “Crap! Dude I forgot to tell you that not only do I have powers but you do to now that you’re here.”

Alan looked at him, “You’re serious?”

Martin nodded as Alan smiled, “SWEET!”

Twilight took on an all business expression, “but the thing of it if is that since Martin’s composition is different from yours, you may get the some of the same abilities or completely different ones.”

Martin approached Alan, “Only one way to find out.”

Alan looked at Martin who brought his fist back and threw a punch at Alan who caught it immediately in a strong vice like grip, “Whoa.”

Martin nodded, “Enhanced strength and reflexes are a definite.”

Alan let go of Martin as he looked at him, “so how do you fly?”

Martin immediately levitated, “well originally it was that I could jump really high but it EVOLVED into flight. But it sort of comes naturally like breathing but with you it may take practice and-“

Alan flew up next to him, “you were saying?”

Martin nodded, “I’m impressed dude. You’re a natural.”

Both humans landed on the ground as Alan walked to Tom and began punching it.

Martin approached Twilight, “How come he is getting all of his abilities at once?”

Twilight sighed, “I told you his cellular composition is different from yours so he is developing differently and the magic echoes are AFFECTING him differently.”

Martin was about to say something else until he heard Alan yell something. He turned around and saw Dash and Pinkie telling some things. Alan then pointed his hands at Tom and yelled something else as the group approached confused at his behaviour.

Shining Armour asked the question everypony was thinking, “What are you doing?”

Alan stopped his gesturing and turned to them, “It’s my theory that my powers might be activated by saying a sort of trigger phrase or word like the Human Torch or Captain Marvel.”

Rainbow Dash cast them a glance as well, “Me and Pinkie were just giving him words to try.”

Alan pointed his hands and yelled, “Dash is awesome.”, nothing happened much to Dash’s frustration.

Rainbow huffed, “I thought that would have worked.”

Alan sighed, “Well I suppose there is one word I haven’t tried.”

Alan brought his hands back and brought them forward in a Kamehameha fashion as he yelled, “SHAZAM!!”

The second the word was uttered a large bolt of electricity shot out from his combined hands and destroyed a chunk of Tom leaving a smoking impression as Alan’s eyes widened, “HOLY!”

Martin finished for him, “CROW!”

Alan raised his hands and stared at them as electricity crackled along the surface of his skin. He pressed his palms together and pulled them apart as small bolts arched from on hand to another.

Alan turned to Martin with a grin, “Sorry dude, invisibility has got NOTHING on this!”

Martin approached Alan, “that was awesome!”

Alan nodded frantically, “I KNOW RIGHT!”

Twilight approached Alan with a look of fascination, “Amazing! Alan, would you mind if I ran a few tests on your electrical discharge ability?”

Alan thought for a second as he allowed more electricity to crackle across his hands before it ceased, “Sure.”, he looked at Martin, “Plus I think you need to discuss some things in private with the present royalty.”

Alan bid them farewell as Twilight led him into the library.

The rest of the six knew they should probably give Martin, Shining Armour and Princess Cadance some privacy since it was Martin’s business not theirs. So the six went into the library but not before AJ winked at Martin before she shut the door.

Cadance took notice of the gesture with a smile, “Seems like somepony likes you.”

Martin rubbed his head nervously as he sat down, “Hehe I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Cadance raised a skeptical eyebrow, “You can’t lie to me. I am a masterful mare on the subject of love.”

Martin put his face in his hands, “Damn it.”

Shining Armour smiled, “Hey it’s nothing to be embarrassed about.”

Martin looked up, “But we are LITERALLY two different species.”

Cadance shook her head, “Be that as it may, as long as you both share a strong bond your love will find a way around that barrier.”

Martin scratched his head, “I guess I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it. But we are kind of off topic here.”

Cadance straightened herself, “Right, we should focus on the matter at hand.”

Shining Armour was all business when he addressed Martin, “We both understand you weren’t ready for the ceremony now and we are sorry for the sudden shift. Unfortunately it can’t be cancelled but it can be postponed.”

Martin smiled hopefully, “Are either of you able-“

Cadance shook her head, “Only my aunt can postpone it and like the scroll says you’ll have to take it up with her.”

All of a sudden a loud boom shook the tree as smoke billowed out of every open window and the door as it opened. All of the six stumbled out with their manes standing on end as Alan stumbled out behind them.

Alan then raised his hand, “Funny thing, machines and me are now on totally different wave lengths.”

Alan and the rest of the six collapsed as Martin, Cadance and Shining just looked at each other in surprise as Shining Armour chuckled, “That was shocking.”

Cadance and Martin face palmed/face hoofed.

Apologies for shortness, Chapters will be longer soon

Chapter 3: Another Date & Time

After the display of power from Alan and the events that came later, Pinkie Pie insisted that Alan be brought to Sugarcube Corner for a welcoming party which he gladly accepted. Martin declined the invite because he had to go say hi to the Apple Family and set an actual date for the ceremony. The rest of the six said they would meet up later after the party. As Martin and AJ walked back to the farm AJ told something to Martin which he was not ready for.

AJ looked at Martin, “just tah warn ya, ah haven’t told the family about us bein a couple.”

Martin stopped, “Uh…why not?”

AJ stared down with a look of embarrassment, “Ah wanted tah do it when you were here.”

Martin clapped his hands together and rubbed them nervously, “this is going to be SO awkward.”

AJ gave a nervous smile as the entered the farm grounds, “Hehe, yeah.”

Martin and AJ walked inside of the house with nervous smiles on their faces as the family greeted them. Applejack told them that she and Martin had an announcement to make which caused everypony to sit down.

Martin cleared his throat, “well…um…”

Applejack gave her best smile, “Me ahn Martin are…seein each other.”

Applebloom tilted her head, “well of course yeh are he’s right here.”

Martin sighed, “What she meant was that she is my special…Somepony.”

The second that was said everypony was silent with wide eyes which caused Martin to put his face in his hands for how blunt he was with it. He looked up when he felt something hugging his leg. He looked down into the smiling face of Applebloom and then at Granny Smith and Big Mac who wore the same expressions.

Applejack turned to Martin, “Told ya they would take it well.”

Martin shook his head, “No you didn’t.”

Applejack turned away quickly looking at the ceiling, “Ah meant to.”

Martin stood up as Big Mac approached him and gave him a calm stare as Martin returned it, soon both guys nodded in respect as Big Mac leaned foreward and spoke in a whisper, “Ya better be good to mah sister. Treat her right and don’t ever break her heart or else ah’ll break you.”

Martin took on a fearful expression as Mac smiled at him and walked outside with the rest of the family leaving AJ and Martin alone.

AJ looked at Martin with concern, “You alright sugercube?”

Martin slowly nodded, “Your brother threatened me with bodily harm if I should ever break you emotionally.”

AJ looked confused at his reaction, “Ah thought you couldn’t get hurt.”

Martin nodded, “I can’t, but you would be surprised what I can live through.”

*

Alan stood in the back of Sugarcube corner as Rainbow held an old and cracked plate in her mouth until Alan yelled, “PULL!”

Rainbow flung the plate into the air as Alan formed a pistol with his thumb and index finger and shot a concentrated bolt through the centre of the plate which exploded into smoking ash. This spectacle was soon followed by hoof stomps of applause.

Mrs. Cake approached Alan with a smile, “Thank you so much for helping us clear out the cabinets of the old dishes.”

Alan smiled, “It’s nothing really…OOH A POT!”

Rainbow smiled as she threw it high into the air, Alan then did a tactical roll and blasted the old pot into oblivion much to Pinkie’s excitement, “NICE SHOT ALAN!”

Alan smiled as he dusted himself off, “Thanks.”

Alan turned his head slightly after seeing something out of the corner of his eye, “Was that a…nah Celestia, Luna and Cadance are the only ones.”

*

An Alicorn with a bright white coat and silver mane was looking at Ponyville’s inhabitants as they walked around with smiles blissfully unaware of anything around them. The bright blue eyes that had white segments softened as the Alicorn took comfort in the scenery around him. Truthfully it was always the little things that made him the happiest be it from the smallest bird or a child at play. The Alicorn then noticed an auburn haired human with a familiar blonde farm pony which caused him to vanish in a flash of white.

*

Martin rounded the side of Sugarcube corner as Alan noticed him and waved which he returned with a smile.

Martin weaved through the crowd of ponies, “Hey dude lets saddle up and head out.”

Alan stared at him, “Where?”

Martin pointed with his thumb at Canterlot which caused Alan to smile, “Seriously?”

Martin nodded as Alan pointed in the direction of the train station which caused Martin to shake his head, “who said anything about the train. We’re taking the fast way.”

Alan grinned as Martin floated into the air which Alan mirrored immediately.

Rainbow flew up to them, “So you two are just going to leave us here then?”

Alan grinned at her playfully, “Are you going to miss my company Dash?”

Rainbow became flustered as Alan patted her on the head mockingly and took off.

Martin shook his head as he looked at AJ, “We’ll be back later.”

AJ nodded, “Don’t be gone to long; we all still have a surprise for ya.”

Martin nodded as he waved over his shoulder before taking off after Alan.

*

Both Alan and Martin were exhilarated as the wind whipped past their faces. Martin had never flew to Canterlot before because he wanted to get the hang of flying first before attempting it lest he crash and burn into the ground. Alan was howling in absolute excitement as he shot through a cloud making a large hole through the center of it.

Martin could feel himself accelerate as he caught up to Alan, “PRETTY AWESOME HUH!”

Alan nodded excitedly as they both sped up, “I WONDER IF WE CAN DO A SONIC BOOM?”

Martin just stared at him, “WON’T WE BE TURNED TO MUSH IF WE TRY THAT!”

Alan shook his head as he did a barrel roll, “DUDE WE AREN’T EVEN SUPPOSED TO BE ABLE TO BREATHE AT THIS SPEED OR HEIGHT. WHATS STOPPING US!”

Martin nodded slightly, “GOOD POINT, LETS REV IT UP!!”

Alan smiled in exhilaration, “SHIFT INTO TURBO!!”

Both Martin and Alan began to speed up as air resistance began to form in front of them and began to become cones. Soon the cone became narrower and narrower until a quick yet loud bang was heard which left a ring of cloud behind them.

Both humans looked behind themselves and yelled, “WOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!”

They then both slowed down sharply upon landing causing a massive gale of wind to fly down the street overturning everypony and various objects. Soon many ponies got up and fixed both humans with annoyed glares as they both nervously smiled and apologised.

Eventually after many more apologies were said they made their way to the castle courtyard. The guards were suspicious of their sudden arrival but relented after Martin informed them of their business there. Soon they were admitted into the throne room which was surprisingly vacant until Princess Celestia entered through a side door with a smile at noticing her guests.

Both humans bowed quickly as Celestia stopped in front of them, “Martin Fairbridges and Alan Washington it’s good to see you again. How have you both been?”

Alan smiled, “Well I’ve managed to get time off from work to further enjoy your amazing kingdom.”

The Princess smiled at this until Martin cleared his throat, “I’ve been pretty well actually and I’m also here about the ceremony.”

The Princess’s nodded, “of course, I assume you are excited for the opportunity. Not many ponies or humans in your case get knighted often.”

Martin nodded, “Yeah I heard. But about the time I may have to postpone it until the spring which is in about a month or so since its winter back home.”

Celestia nodded in understanding, “Take all the time you need to prepare yourself.”

Martin sighed in relief, “Well that was easy.”

Celestia regarded him with slight concern, “Your mind seems elsewhere at the moment.”

Martin looked at the Princess, “I was wondering if I could see Lupe…I mean if it’s not too much trouble.”

Princess Celestia shook her head, “it’s no trouble at all, but she hasn’t spoken much since coming here or coming down for any food. She merely asks that the guards bring her food to the door and the tray is clean the next morning.”

Alan and Martin walked through the halls as the approached the tower used for royal guests and stopped at the door. Princess Celestia offered Alan a chance to tour the palace while Martin chatted with Lupe which Alan accepted without hesitation.

Martin was about to knock until a quiet voice spoke from within, “Come in…”

Martin opened the door and saw Lupe sitting on the window sill wearing a sleeveless white robe and her hair reached down to her waist and was still naturally curly.

She turned her head and smiled softly at Martin, “Hey.”

Martin looked at her, “I like the new look.”

Lupe absently toyed with a bit of her hair, “The princesses did me a favour and grew my hair so I could style it again.”

Martin tilted his head slightly, “Why haven’t you?”

Lupe looked out the window, “no reason to.”

Martin looked at her, “Celestia tells me you don’t come down for anything social. Is it because of…?”

Lupe finished for her, “the Empathy, yes. Being up here is the only relaxation I can have in this world. If even one being gets close enough I feel…everything,” she then clutched her head, “Their pain, anger, happiness, love, anguish and sadness all at once. It’s painful beyond human comprehension and it drives me crazy.”

Martin stepped back, “is it happening now?”

Lupe painfully nodded, “But the bright side out of all of this is I developed something to assist me.”

She looked over at a brush and levitated it over to her open hand which caused Martin to nod, “Telekinesis?
”

Lupe shrugged, “Not sure.”

Martin smiled as he placed a hand on her shoulder which caused her to cringe away as if she just got zapped by a cattle prod and yelled, “DON’T TOUCH ME!”

Martin’s face fell as Lupe stared fearfully at him with a mixture of pain and sorrow, “I’m sorry…please just go.”

Martin nodded as he turned to leave but not before casting a look over his shoulder, “Lupe…you’ll get through this.”

Martin soon met up with both princesses and Alan who all looked at him with concern.

Luna regarded him with concern, “How fairs Lupe?”

Martin then looked to the tower, “She’s fine but...the Lupe I know isn’t in that room.”

*

Lupe sat curled in a ball as she regarded the setting sun for a moment before shedding a single tear.

Chapter 4: Dash Of Washington

The minutes seemed to drag on during the fly back to Ponyville; Martin was deep in troubled thought where Alan was merely flying in content silence. Martin shook his head as he thought back to the way Lupe reacted to him, “DON’T TOUCH ME!!", it was almost like she was…afraid of him.

Alan stopped in mid-air causing Martin to pull up, Alan then addressed his troubled friend, “You’ve been silent ever since we left Canterlot, what the deal?”

Martin sighed, “Its Lupe dude, she just seems so…broken.”

Alan raised an eyebrow, “broken?”

They began to fly at a more even pace as Martin continued, “I can’t explain it. It’s almost like someone took Lupe, broke her, and then put her back together with different pieces but she still has cracks on her.”

Alan shook his head, “Before you go thinking something completely different, it’s not your fault.”

Martin was about to retort but stopped as Alan continued, “Discord messed her up something fierce and on top of that she also lost her sanity for a bit. That entire mental trauma mixed with the empathy she was given would stunt her mental healing but the Lupe WE know is in there.”

Martin nodded sadly, “I know that. I’m just afraid that she might not heal and degrade further into a complete wreck.”

Alan smiled at him, “Don’t worry about it dude, she just needs time.”

Martin looked back slightly but then forward with a calm smile, “Well they do say time heals all wounds.”

Alan grinned, “That’s the spirit! Let’s pick up the pace, we have a surprise waiting.”

Alan then punched Martin in the arm and accidentally discharged some electricity causing Martin to grip the spot in pain, “AH!”

Martin slowly lifted his hand as Alan flew up and started frying off apology after apology. As Martin looked at the area of contact his eyes widened in shock, the sleeve of his shirt had been burned and the skin underneath…was partially burned.

Alan stared wide eyed, “I thought you said you didn’t get injured easily.”

Martin looked at the wound then at Alan, “If this was an accidental discharge…”

Alan finished for him, “What would happen if I actually meant business.”

Martin and Alan looked at each other upon discovering this new revelation. They both were ecstatic at the prospect of them both having abilities that they had both overlooked something. What if one of them was stronger than the other and what would happen if they fought each other? But the much bigger question they were concerned with was an ominous one, if they fought, who would walk away?

*

Martin and Alan had landed a few minutes after the tiny incident only to be blindfolded by an enthusiastic Pinkie Pie and told not to move them until Pinkie said so.

Martin couldn’t help but ask the obvious, “I assume you’re taking us to the surprise you mentioned?”
Pinkie giggled, “Of course silly, I don’t blindfold everypony out of nowhere you know. THAT is reserved for Blindfold Everypony Day which is in a few weeks!”

Alan chuckled at the comment as they were continually led through the winding streets by Pinkie with the rest of the six not far behind. After a long amount of walking, Pinkie finally told them to stop and to remove the blindfolds. When the strips of cloth left their eyes they both gazed upon a spectacle which left them speechless. Before both of the humans was a two floor house with a metal mailbox in front of it that had a red flag on the side with, “Fairbridges” inscribed on the sides in black letters. The house was painted white with a red roof and the way the windows were positioned along with the size of the place and the architecture, it was an Equestrian version of a human home.

Martin was at a loss for words, “Homina homina homina homina homina homina homina…”

Alan joined in with the same reaction, “Homina homina homina homina homina homina…”

The six hugged them both with grins as Twilight explained the home, “I was sifting through some old notes and saw that I didn’t fulfill the princess’s order of finding you a home here during your first visit so…”

Applejack finished for her, “We all decided tah make ya a place tah call yer own.”

Rainbow nodded, “I did most of the roof work…”, AJ fixed her with a look causing her to relent, “...AJ helped of course.”

Applejack sighed, “Close enough.”

Martin walked to the front door and saw a key hanging on a hook which he took and stuck in the lock as Rarity began speaking, “It’s not much, but it’s something. Personally I suggested we add an extra floor but the construction ponies were going to charge extra and I would hear nothing of it. I may be the element of generosity but when it came to that price I simply HAD to refuse.”

Martin looked around at the Equestrian take on human architecture as he looked at the roof, “I see you got the height right.”

Fluttershy nodded, “Of course we did and we spent close to a month in your house so we went with what we could remember.”

Twilight smiled, “Plus I read some books on human buildings during our stay and picked up a few things.”

Alan walked out of what was possibly going to be the kitchen, “Everything’s on par dude, should we start moving your stuff here now or later.”

Martin thought for a second, “I’d rather do it now rather than later. We can buy some furniture from the local shops here however because I don’t want to move that kind of stuff back and forth.”

Alan nodded, “sounds legit.”

Applejack then rubbed her front hooves together, “Then let’s get tah work.”

*

Many hours passed as the girls, Martin, and Alan walked back and forth between Earth with various clothes and extra essentials until the day went into the afternoon. All were gathered in the furnished deprived living room taking a well-deserved break all except for two individuals.

Alan and Rainbow were casually walking along the roofs of Ponyville idly chatting of various subjects to keep themselves occupied.

Rainbow sat down beside a weather main as she looked at Alan who leaned against it, “…And then Soarin flew into the chicken coop and was covered in feathers and broken eggs!”

Alan laughed, “So THAT’S what happened when you got to spend your day with The Wonderbolts. Man you were so lucky…”, he sat down beside her, “…I envy you.”

Rainbow waved the comment off, “Why be envious about that? You should be envious when I BECOME a Wonderbolt.”

Alan grinned as he looked at the horizon, “You no I’ve always wondered something about you…”

Dash looked at him, “What?”

Alan leaned back and casually asked with a bit of a smirk, “Why DO you hate it when other ponies touch your hooves.”

Rainbow looked from side to side really fast as if somepony was listening which only caused Alan to laugh much to her annoyance.

Rainbow Dash straightened up slightly, “That’s…none of your business.”

Alan nodded, “Of course *cough*wuss*cough*.”

Dash fixed him with a glare, “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Alan shrugged, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

She flew in front of his face, “I am not a WUSS!”

Alan looked away with a grin, “I find that hard to believe.”

Rainbow narrowed her eyes, “Really?”

Alan nodded only to be tackled off the roof to the ground with Rainbow sitting on his back with a smirk, “What say you now?”

Alan took on a sly expression, “Rainbow Dash, the last time we were this close was when I kissed you back on Earth.”

Rainbow’s face immediately burned red as she flew into the air and back onto the ground, “T-that was a mistake.”

Alan smiled as he crossed his arms, “Really? It looked to me that the great Rainbow Dash enjoyed it.”

Rainbow snorted slightly, “I am NOT into all that mushy stuff.”

Alan raised his hands defensively, “I never said you were I’m just saying maybe you might be going soft.”

Rainbow immediately flew up into his face, “I. Am. Not. Soft.”

Alan looked up and spoke in a sing song voice, “I don’t believe you.”

Rainbow Dash pointed to the sky, “I could fly circles around you so fast I could make your head spin.”

Alan looked unimpressed, “Really? Because you’re not the only one who can break the sound barrier Dash.”

Rainbow landed as she looked into his eyes with a challenging expression, “You wanna go toe to hoof with me pretty boy?”

Alan smiled in response, “Go for it.”

Rainbow thought for a second, “Alright, how about we make this a little more interesting.”

Alan nodded, “I’m listening.”

Rainbow tapped her chin, “If I beat you in a race form Ponyville to Canterlot you have to be my servant. Doing all my work, catering to my every whim and calling me Awesome Dash whenever addressing me…for a month.”

Alan was surprised at this but regained himself, “Alright, but if I win you have to go out on a date...”, Alan pointed with his thumb at himself, “...with me.”

Rainbow was greatly surprised but smirked quickly, “Deal. Tomorrow here at high noon.”

Alan and Rainbow both exchanged competitive looks as they parted ways…only to head back in the direction of Martin’s Equestrian domicile.

Chapter 5: How The Race Was Won

Martin slept well that night after purchasing a double bed from the local store in Ponyville before nightfall arrived. He then awoke in the morning and walked to the bathroom to freshen up; he splashed some water on his face and looked at himself only for his eyes to widen in shock and fear. His once green eyes were now completely black like what Phobos did to ponies when he instilled his influence into them. He then felt a burning in his right shoulder and looked at the scar that Phobos’s sword had left during their battle with shock. The scar tissue was black and was giving off an ominous glow that seemed to pulsate in unison with his heartbeat. He then looked back at the mirror and saw it crack in several places around his reflection like a twisted picture frame as Martin lost his balance and dropped to the ground. He looked up to see another Martin staring at him with black eyes and pale skin, and the skin from the elbows down seemed to be made of a black bone like substance with talon like fingers making and it’s hair was a fiery red instead of auburn making this “Dark” Martin more terrifying to Martin then anything he had ever seen before. Dark Martin was wearing black pajama-like pants and no shirt, socks or shoes. Covering his lean torso from his neck to elbows were black evil looking line tattoos which resembled the same lines that were on Phobos’s wings.

Martin stood and shakily pointed which caused Dark Martin to smile with sick glee, “What the hell are you?”

Dark Martin jumped slightly in place, “I’m you.”

Martin shook his head in disbelief, “Your lying!”

Dark Martin approached his counterpart with a confident stride, “No I’m not and you know it deep down.”

Martin looked confused as the entire house began to break apart and reform into a dark and more gothic version of itself. The bathroom however had formed into a room with a large full bodied mirror as Dark Martin began to jump happily in place clapping his hands.

Dark Martin wrapped his arm around Martin as he gestured, “See this brother, this is our home. This is our sanctuary and your bagshit crazy mind in all of its glory.”

Martin pushed him away, “I’m not crazy!”

Dark Martin shook his head, “your right…you’re just WEAK!”

Martin was then hurled by an unseen force into the mirror which cracked and dislodged a shard of glass which he took into his hand, “What do you mean?!”

Dark Martin leered down at him, “Still haven’t figured it out?”

Martin leapt to his feet and slashed his dark reflection’s throat open with one strong swing of his arm. A black oil like blood sprayed into his face blinding him as an immense pain struck him. He looked down and saw that Dark Martin’s right claw was buried deep in his stomach as the dark persona lifted Martin off the ground with a grin that flashed sharpened canines.

Dark Martin brought his counterpart close and whispered in his ear, “Honestly I was expecting more of a challenge from the strongest hero in Equestria, how unfortunate you failed my expectations.”

Dark Martin then threw Martin through the mirror which led into a massive dark pit that had no bottom as Dark Martin’s laugh echoed through the entire realm.

*

Martin awoke with a start to the point that he dropped out of his bed and on his side with a thud. As he got to his hooves he…wait a minute. Martin looked at his hands with fright seeing that they were now hooves. He very awkwardly walked into the bathroom and switched on the light and stared at the being in the mirror. A unicorn colt with a reddish mane and chrome colored coat stared back at him his dark green eyes. He craned is neck to look at his side to see that his cutie mark was a gold and silver shield with white wings crossing it in an X. He then inhaled sharply and looked at the mirror once more before he mustered up his bravery and…fainted.

*

Alan’s hair was dishevelled after spending a night in a tent in the Ponyville square. He would have said yes to Martin’s offer of using the guest room but he had declined in the grounds that Martin should settle before he technically moved in. He WAS having a great sleep until Rainbow woke him up by shaking the tent saying that there was an emergency.

Alan had stuck his head out of the tent flap and spoke in a drowsy/annoyed voice, “Somepony had BETTER be dying.”

After explaining to Rainbow that he wasn’t much of a morning person they set off toward Martin’s house. After a bit of drowsy walking from both Dash and Alan they arrived at the house to see Applejack at the top of the stairs with a worried expression.

Alan approached her, “What’s the situation AJ?”

Applejack just gestured with her hoof at Martin’s bedroom in response. Alan then slowly turned the knob and opened it to reveal Martin in his new form.

Alan took on an annoyed/flustered look as he gestured at Martin and yelled, “OH COME ON!!”

*

Twilight was still examining Martin with her magic as to find the cause of his sudden ponyfication but she was still drawing a blank.

Martin gave her an annoyed half look, “I thought you said I wouldn’t turn into a unicorn.”

Twilight was frantic when she finished, “I did! It’s just…this isn’t possible or even probable let alone normal!”

Alan was seated nearby, “You think maybe he absorbed a LITTLE too much magic?”

Twilight shook her head as AJ waited for her response, “Unfortunately it’s hard to tell right now. I may have to run some tests at the library.”

Martin sighed as he shakily got to his new hooves, “I guess it’s time for zappy things again?”

Twilight gave an apologetic smile, “If you want to reverse this.”

Martin nodded as he walked out the door with AJ keeping him upright until he was used to his new stature and size. Rainbow Dash was outside in the roof when Alan arrived to sit next to her.

Dash cast a side look, “What’s the word?”

Alan smiled, “Bird.”, Dash was confused until Alan continued, “Twilight has no idea what’s wrong with him at the moment. She’s taking him to the library for some more tests to determine the cause.”

Rainbow nodded, “Makes sense.”, she then flexed her wings as she stood, “You ready to eat my dust?”

Alan stood up and stretched his legs and arms, “no, because it is you who shall eat MY dust!”

Alan immediately shot into the air at the speed of a fired bullet with an annoyed Rainbow Dash not far behind. The race was in full swing as both contestants were neck in neck even though they just started. Alan looked at Rainbow and saw she was completely concentrated on the horizon whereas he was devising a plan most sweet.

Alan quickly yelled in her direction, “LOSER SAYS WHAT?”

Rainbow looked at him for a second, “WHAT?”

Alan then smiled as he pointed at her, “EXACTLY!”

Alan then pulled ahead until Rainbow realized she had been distracted which had caused her to slow down and she immediately sped up to catch Alan who was shrinking into the distance.

Rainbow managed to yell in his direction, “THAT WAS A CHEAP TRICK!”

Alan casually turned around in midflight, “IT WORKED DIDN’T IT?”

Alan then crashed into a storm cloud which immediately surged to life as his screams of pain were heard but fell on deaf ears as Rainbow took advantage of the situation and sped ahead. As Dash smiled in triumph she turned her head at the sound of an explosion and witnessed Alan with minor singed clothes bursting out of the storm cloud and headed straight toward her. She gritted her teeth as she kicked it into overdrive causing a cone of air to form in front of her. Alan noticed this and started to speed up as well with the same result as Dash’s. Canterlot was approaching them faster and faster with each passing second which caused each racer to speed up even more.

It was then that Rainbow Dash broke both the colour spectrum and the sound barrier resulting in her trademark sonic rainboom. Alan was blown back slightly only to regain his speed with renewed energy and focus. Alan was approaching Dash as his air cone was on the brink of breaking as electricity was surging at its front.

Alan turned his head and made a hang loose gesture, “CATCH YA ON THE FLIP SIDE DASH!”

Alan then broke the sound barrier with a discharge of both air and built up electricity which zapped Dash and caused her to crash into a fountain in Canterlot square. Dash’s soaked head popped out of the water with an annoyed look as Alan landed next to it and helped her out.

Rainbow waved her hooves, “How did you beat me!?”

Alan shrugged, “I waited for you to use your secret weapon and then I used mine.”, he then pointed to the sky, “It’s called pacing.”

Rainbow Dash let out a defeated sigh as Alan patted her on the head, “Don’t sweat it Dash. I had a blast! It’s not every day that you get to race the best young flier in Equestria!”

Dash nodded with a smile, “I guess it was a blast. I may have been defeated, but I am STILL the fastest and awesomest pony in EQUESTRIA!!”

Alan then remembered something, “Oh yeah, I’ll pick you up at eight.”

Rainbow’s mood immediately deflated.

Chapter 7: Cosmic

Lupe sat in her tower room combing her still waist length hair out of both reflection and sadness. Word had reached Canterlot that Martin had become a pony seemingly out of nowhere and Twilight was currently scouring every source she could find to reverse the process. She straightened her white night dress and hopped down from her window sill and sat at the vanity table that was beside her bed and stared at the girl in the mirror. She looked at the reflection with sadness at what she had now become. She had some black bags under her eyes and her hair which was partially combed was still disheveled and naturally curly. Her electric blue and forest green eyes blinked in unison as she suddenly saw herself as…THAT girl. She blinked away the golden eyed and white haired version of herself and sharply turned to look at the door as it opened reveling both Princesses…looking rather casual in terms of clothing.

Lupe held the right side of her head, “Whats the occasion?”

Luna looked to the side, “What do you mean?”

Lupe gestured to them, “The lack of your usual attire.”

Celestia smiled, “We thought that since we came up here to talk we would enter as equals.”

Lupe chuckled, “Thanks I guess.”

Luna noticed her expression as she produced a wrapped box from behind her back, “My sister and I made you something I think you might like.”

Lupe raised her free hand as the box flew into it by an invisible force and it wasn’t long before she opened it and her eyes widened at the thing within. The object was a golden chain with a charm in the shape of the royal coat of arms attached to it.

Lupe smiled as she put it on, “You didn’t have to do this.”

Celestia shook her head, “Nonsense Lupe.
“

Luna nodded, “Indeed. After all it’s almost like your part of the family.”

Lupe suddenly felt a tad light headed, “What’s wrong with me?”

Luna looked at the ceiling innocently, “Well we haven’t been OVERLY busy so Tia and I decided to look into suppression spells to help with your…problem.”

Lupe looked at the royal sisters in a mixture of thanks and relief now that her burden had been lifted slightly. Truthfully she liked the sisters company ever since they started hanging out with her in the hospital to help her healing process along. Over the course of that time they formed a slight bond of mutual friendship for one another. Plus they did indeed feel almost like family since she had technically had been living with them since she came to Equestria which she was happy about and grateful.

Celestia then realized something which brought a smile to her face, “I just remembered the other reason we both came here. We are holding a dinner party this evening and I think you should attend.”

Luna nodded in agreement with her sister, “Yes you should, it will be good for you to meet more ponies and interact with society instead of cooping yourself up in this tower forever.”

Lupe though for a second but sighed, “I don’t think I can. I mean this is a high society event and I’m anything but.”

Both sisters looked at each other and gave her gentle smiles as they stood at her sides and looked at themselves in the mirror.

Celestia looked very confused, “That’s odd because I’m not seeing a regular girl. I’m seeing a strong and confident queen that needs to meet her subjects…”

Luna finished with her, “…and to stop wasting away behind the stone walls she is living in.”

Lupe placed her arms on the table with a very nervous look as Luna made her princess crown appear on Lupe’s head, “I must say it fits you well.”

Lupe placed the crown on its rightful owners head, “but it fits and looks BETTER on you. I don’t belong in this world…”, she placed her head in her folded arms face down as she quietly said, “…or on mine anymore.”

Both sisters shook their heads as they backed up and then pointed at Lupe as music seemed to start from nowhere which they didn’t even notice,

“Oooooooo!
You can dance
You can jive
Having the time of your life
Ohhhh!
See that girl
Watch that scene
Dig in the dancing queen!”

Lupe looked up and turned to look at the princesses as they changed into their usual attire and they both smiled as they did a little jig,

“Friday night and the lights are low
Looking out for a place to go
Where they play the right music
Getting in the swing
You come to look for a king…”

An image of human Martin materialized in her mirror thanks to Celestia, who stood beside it and placed a hoof on the mirror’s rim,

“Anybody could be that guy…”

The reflection vanished as she helped Lupe to her feet with magic as she pulled her beside her sister, who nudged the human,

“Night is young and the music's high
With a bit of rock music
Everything is fine
You're in the mood for a dance
And when you get the chance!”

Both sisters then danced beside Lupe,

“You are the dancing queen
Young and sweet
Only Nineteeeeeen!
Dancing queen
Feel the beat from the tambourine
Ohhhh Yeahhh!
You can dance
You can jive
Having the time of your life!”

Lupe smiled as she danced along with them which caused the sisters to appear on her bed and point,

“Ooooohh
See that girl
Watch that scene
Dig in the dancing queen!”

Lupe was then placed in front of her mirror by both sisters as Luna combed and styled her hair while Celestia was conjuring various dresses behind both of them,

“You're a teaser, you turn 'em on
Leave 'em burning and then you're gone
Looking out for another
Anyone will do
You're in the mood for a dance
And when you get the chance!”

Lupe was now garbed in a formal rose red gown and her hair was styled into a formal yet fun looking ponytail which caused her to stand with a smile and twirl on the spot as the sisters smiled in delight,

“You are the dancing queen
Young and sweet
Only nineteeeeeeeen!”

Lupe struck a pose and all three began to dance together,

“Dancing queen
Feel the beat from the tambourine
Ooooooh Yeeah!
You can dance
You can jive
Having the time of your life
See that girl
Watch that scene
Dig in the dancing queen!”

They all stopped dancing as Luna smiled, “See you look positively ecstatic.”

Celestia nodded, “It seems our cheering up method worked swimmingly. But I digress, come on Lupe and allow me to introduce you to some of the royal guard in PERSON.”

Lupe nodded but stopped, “Is this a private dinner party or can people or ponies be invited by guests?”

Celestia and Luna smiled in understanding as the led Lupe out of her tower and into the afternoon sunlight to which she shut her eyes and basked in.

*

Meanwhile in Martin’s Home

Martin was sitting on his bed deep in thought on these new turn of events. He looked up at the sound of a noise and saw AJ standing in the doorway. They both smiled at each other as she approached and stood nearby.

Applejack looked at the spot next to him, “This seat taken?”

Martin shook his head, “Pop a squat.”

Applejack smiled and sat down next to him only for her smile to disappear as they both sat in absolute silence. The silence dragged on for some time while both ponies idly fidgeted.

After what seemed like an eternity AJ snorted, “AW! Ah can’t stand it!”

Martin looked at her, “What?”

Applejack placed her hat down, “ah know you’ve only been a pony for a day. But ah’ve…all the emotions ah’m feelin are drivin me crazy!”

Martin placed a hoof on her back, “What do you mean?”

AJ sighed, “Ah know this happened to you outta the blue but I’m probably not the only one thinkin about it…”

Martin thought for a second only for his eyes to open wide in realization, “oh…”

Applejack ignored his comment, “Ah love ya Martin, with all mah heart and ah want to express it in a way to make us BOTH happy but…”

Martin completed her sentence, “It would be just too awkward right now.”

AJ nodded with a smile, “Exactly.”

Martin smiled as he gave her a quick kiss, “Don’t worry about it. It will get better I promise, I am still me…”

AJ nodded but noticed the way he said the lst bit of his sentence, “Martin, is there something yer not tellin me?”

Martin shook his head, “Just a VERY bad nightmare…”

All of a sudden there was a knock on his front door which caused both ponies to stand up and approach the door. The second Martin opened it however caused both ponies great surprise as they saw the face staring back at them.

Phobos raised his hand in a slight wave, “Hello…”

AJ immediately slammed her back legs into his torso as Martin leapt onto him and brandished his horn as an impaling weapon, “HOW ARE YOU HERE!?”

Phobos disappeared from beneath the unicorn and re-appeared in front of him as AJ joined Martin’s side, “Martin Fairbridges I mean you no harm I only wish to talk.”

Martin shook his head in disbelief, “Yeah right!”

He then discharged a bolt of magic at the aspect who easily sidestepped it as Martin fell onto his back dazed, “how did I do that?”

Applejack helped him up, “First time magic discharge is always the most powerful. At least that’s what Twi told me.”

Phobos looked at Martin with more of annoyance now, “I merely wish to talk but if you keep insisting on attacking me I will be FORCED to retaliate!”

Martin responded by shooting another more precise bolt into Phobos’s chest which caused the aspect to stand in anger as his robe became black fire and his eyes became ball of black light as his skin seemed to get whiter. An ominous wind whipped his hair around as it seemed to become almost energy like, and then a pair of skeletal bat wings exploded from his back alight with black fire as well.

Phobos then spoke in a booming demonic voice as the light around them seemed to dim as the shadows seemed to lengthen and become denser, “I AM THE ASPECT OF FEAR AND DARKNESS! DO NOT TAKE ME FOR A FOOL TO BE TRIFELED WITH!”

Martin and AJ actually backed up in surprise and fear as Phobos reverted back to normal and spoke in an exasperated tone, “I am no longer your enemy. Please just listen to me.”

Martin exhaled, “Fine what do you want.”

Phobos sighed, “I have sat idly by and watch my brother be miserable and distant for so long that I can’t take it anymore. So I come before you today to ask you…nay…beg you to ask for Sortitus’s help.”

Martin nodded with a frustrated look, “so that’s it then, HE just sent you down here for you to beg on his behalf. Jeez I thought deities had a spine.”

Phobos shook his head, “That’s not why…”

Martin cut him off, “Plus I distinctly remember him agreeing to my terms of not coming back here…EVER.”

Phobos was getting annoyed now, “listen to me…”

It was Applejack’s turn now, “Why should we? Not only did ya try to kill us last time you were here but Sortitus did sumthin unforgivable to a friend.”

Phobos was now visibly angry, “Let. Me. Speak.”

Martin shook his head, “and now he has the gull to send someone down here to apologise for him? That is by far the most cowardly…”

Phobos appeared in front of Martin and picked him up by his jaw in a vice like grip, “You ungrateful INGRATE! Do you know what my brother had to DO just to make the bridge for YOU?!”

Martin gasped in response as Phobos continued, “He dropped everything he was doing to help YOU! To do whatever was necessary for YOU’RE benefit. He HELPED YOU to fight Discord and stop me and asked for nothing in return and you won’t even swallow your foolish pride and anger to ask for his assistance!? If it were up to me you would all BURN for such insolence.”

A white lightning bolt struck down as a silver Alicorn appeared, “PHOBOS THAT’S ENOUGH!”

Phobos turned his head and nodded as his anger vanished. The Alicorn looked at Martin and morphed into a familiar being.

Sortitus fixed Martin with a stare, “We need to talk. But first…”

Sortitus approached Martin and tapped him on the forehead as Twilight rounded the corner with several papers in her mouth, “MARTIN I FOUND THE…”

She stared at the human Martin and let out a frusterated groan but stopped upon noticing Sortitus who pointed at her, “Bring the others. Aequivalere is collecting Lupe and The princesses as we speak.”

Applejack approached Sortitus, “What for?”

Sortitus answered gravely, “So we can prevent Doomsday.”

Chapter 8: WTF?!

Sortitus sat on Martin’s equestrian couch as the human in question glared at him. Both Applejack and Twilight noticed the hostility and immediately left the room but keeping a bit of distance to listen in and so they could intervene if necessary.

Sortitus regarded Martin for a moment before speaking, “How are things with AJ?”

Martin responded with the same glare he had been giving the aspect since he sat down which caused Sortitus to sigh, “You have every right to be angry with me but this aggression will not help matters.”

Martin looked to the side for a moment as Sortitus shook his head, “Martin just get it out of your system now so we don’t have to deal with this at a later date.”

Martin snorted, “Fine. All of the things that had transpired up till now have been among the WORST in history for both worlds. Doing what you did to Lupe was cruel and horrible she is an absolute WRECK thanks to you!”

Sortitus leaned back as Martin inhaled sharply, “But that was the straw that broke the camel’s back. The other reason I snapped was because of a question that has been bothering me since I met you and your brother. All the things, good and bad, that happened to me and everyone else. Did you know they would happen before they did?”, Martin already knew the answer.

Sortitus nodded, “Yes, and then some.”

Martin lost it, “I KNEW IT!!! UNBELIEVEABLE! You knew Lupe would go bad and you knew Discord would be freed before ANYONE ELSE!!”

Martin crossed the room and grabbed Sortitus by the cloak, to which the aspect made no move to object as he was lifted off his feet, “What really burns me up is the fact that everything could have been prevented if you told us immediately! WHY DIDN’T YOU!? YOU SAID THAT YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO KEEP THE UNIVERSE IN CHECK! Did it ever occur to you that maybe telling your “champion” about these things would be a good idea!?”

Sortitus looked at the floor, “You don’t understand…”

Martin seethed, “THEN TELL ME WHY!”

Sortitus nodded, “Fine…but could you put me down please?”

Martin obliged as Sortitus straightened his robe and sighed as he heard more visitors enter the house to which he merely ignored, “I did and do know what is happening and what is coming for all of us. But you see I am forbidden to directly interfere with mortal affairs UNLESS if it’s necessary or if I have to.”

Martin noticed the way he spoke the last few words, “You’re saying it like the only way you can help us is if you’re supposed to.”

Sortitus gave a weak smile, “That is what I’m saying.”

Martin sat down, “Seriously?”

Sortitus nodded, “Yes.”

Martin raised his hands in the air, “Then why not help earlier!?”

Sortitus looked straight into Martin’s eyes, “I am governed by fates design and flow and even I am forbidden to change it. As is the way it has been and it shall be.”

Martin leaned forward and stared at the ground in exhaustion. Sortitus looked behind him and noticed the six along with Lupe, Alan, and The Princesses staring at them which who he smiled at as he looked back at Martin.

Sortitus spoke depressed, “Do you know what it’s like to watch beings deaths and paths leading to them and the feeling that you’re powerless to even divert it even slightly? It’s agony. I have lived with this curse for my entire existence and it has kept getting progressively worse. It tore me apart to do what I did to Lupe…what I did to your life all those weeks ago. I don’t even deserve forgiveness for my actions-“

He felt a tap on his shoulderwhich caused him to turn around to see Lupe with her hair down wearing a plain white shirt with matching pants and slipper-like shoes. Sortitus blinked a few times as he stood up and stared at her with regret.

Sortitus placed a hand on her shoulder, “My apologies Lupe. I wished I could have saved you but I could not and for that-“

Lupe then did something that completely surprised all in the room, she wrapped her arms around Sortitus and hugged him tight.

She then spoke in a hushed tone, “I forgive you.”

Sortitus was completely surprised at the action as was Martin and they both said at the same time, “Why?”

She stood between Martin and Sortitus and addressed both of them, “I was never mad or hurt about what happened to me that day. Being in that tower for three weeks gets a girl thinking. I deserved to punished for what I did because it was immature and COMPLETELY crazy. Plus I can’t stand to see both of you this way, you guys are friends right?”

Martin sighed, “Yeah…but that doesn’t mean I have to forgive him so easily.”

Sortitus nodded in agreement, “As I said you have every right not to.”

Pinkie Pie suddenly brought both human and aspect into a friendly hug, “YEAAAHH! Martin and Sortitus are friends again. AWWWW but Martin’s human already? Time for some new party plans,” She then put on a headlight hat as she proclaimed, “BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD!!”

She then bolted out the door causing Aequivalere to follow her with his eyes, “Such an odd mare.”

Fluttershy just giggled, “That’s Pinkie Pie for you.”

Sortitus the clapped his hands together as he fidgeted slightly, “Now to the business at hand.”

Alan and the rest of the group took seats to listen, “So what’s the word Gandalf?”

Sortitus looked at Alan for a second only to lightly chuckle at the comparison but became all business when his brothers joined him at his sides, “The news I bring is most grave in nature and deadly in threat. After cleaning up the last bit of mess from Discords rampage through Earth I found…an anomaly in the dimensional barriers.”

Celestia leaned forward, “What kind of anomaly?”

Phobos answered the question with a tone of concern, “A dimensional hole.”

Aequivalere spoke with dread, “And it’s growing larger.”

Martin looked at Twilight. “That’s bad right?”

Twilight was completely afraid in her response, “Yep.”

Sortitus nodded with a grim expression, “It gets worse. Something’s coming through the hole and is causing immense disturbances as it’s breaking through.”

Rarity was very anxious in her response, “What is the ghastly thing.”

Sortitus somberly looked at Phobos and Aequivalere before he inhaled and sadly answered, “Our older sister Averius the Aspect of Creation.”

Luna was very distraught at this, “Lady Averius!? But…how?”

Martin fixed the aspect trinity with a look, “I haven’t asked much on the subject before but who exactly is part of your family?”

Sortitus looked at Aequivalere who nodded to which Sortitus complied, “Know this, my family has been alive since the first star ignited so it is not uncommon for us to be…different,” Sortitus cleared his throat as he stood and looked out the window which he approached, “In the beginning there was one of us, Our older brother to be precise. He raised the rest of us and taught us the ways of all that is and all that shall be. However as the millennia past us by some of us got…corrupted or twisted along the way. The first was Discord and the second was Phobos. The third was Averius and the last was…”

Sortitus didn’t finish but everypony got the message as he turned to faced them all once more, “The short of it is that when they were twisted and corrupted we as a family had to stop them. Some were easier than others.”

Fluttershy looked at Phobos, “But how did you become evil…if you don’t mind me asking that is.”

Phobos looked at all the eyes on him, “A dark malicious force entered me and twisted my very being to the point of my mind, body, and soul being corrupted into what you all saw.”

Aequivalere placed a hand on his younger brother’s shoulder, “But we saved you and destroyed that THING that was inside you.”

Phobos looked down, “That force was like a nightmare incarnate.”

Luna fidgeted at the word nightmare but Sortitus continued, “Averius however succumbed to powerful dark magicks that destroyed her from within and turned her into a creature of pure rage and destruction.”

Applejack spoke next, “How in thunderation are we goin to stop somethin like that?”

Sortitus shook his head, “You’re not.”

Alan looked at Martin with a worried expression until Sortitus finished, “WE are.”

All the ponies and humans looked at him, “We will help you for it is our duty.”

Martin stood up, “Okay two things. One, what do you mean duty and Two, shouldn’t there be signs of Averius breaking through something that important?”

Sortitus raised a finger for each answer, “Destiny has foretold we are able to assist and two you became a pony out of nowhere remember.”

Martin pointed at Sortitus quickly, “Touché.”

Lupe looked at the aspects, “What does Martin turning into a pony suddenly warrant disaster?”

Sortitus sighed, “That was a minor tremor. The REAL threat is that as Averius breaks through back into reality she is unknowingly making the hole bigger and bigger.”

Twilight was both scared and intrigued, “What happens if the hole gets to big?”

Sortitus thought for a second, “Well to put it simply more odd occurrences will happen AND they will steadily increase in frequency. Also the worst part of this is the fact that as the walls break down both worlds will begin to-,” he made a combining gesture with his hands, “-merge.”

Rarity was not that worried, “That doesn’t sound too bad.”

Sortitus smiled, “did I forget to mention that two worlds and their respective dimensions can’t exist in the same space. And that also they implode five minutes after the successful merger.”

Rarity was whiter than usual as Sortitus continued, “We need to close the hole and prevent Averius from breaching the barriers between worlds or all of creation will go up in smoke.”

Rainbow was confused at the comment, “Why smoke?”

Celestia turned to Rainbow, “It’s because Lady Averius’s divine form was that of a firebird or phoenix and that she wields both the flames of creation and destruction.”

Alan waved a hand, “How big can she be then.”

Phobos regarded him for a second, “Think of a firebird with the white hot intensity of a thousand suns the size of the Chrysler building.”

Alan, Lupe, and Martin were all wide eyed whereas the others were merely puzzled at the comparison.

Aequivalere looked at the ponies, “320 meters high.”

All of the ponies were shocked as their human friends now as Sortitus looked at all of them, “But fear not we just need to close the hole on both sides. But in order to do that we MUST figure out what door Discord used to travel to Earth and where he landed.”

Phobos raised his hand, “He used the bridge in its incomplete state which caused this whole damn mess in the first place.”

Martin leaned back, “What’s the game plan.”

A pair of voices was heard behind them, “yeah because I am sort of lost on this.”

“Honey, don’t interrupt.”

All eyes were on Cadance and Shining Armor who were both standing in the entry way.

*

After filling in both ponies and Pinkie Pie after she had come back from the drawing board they got to planning as Sortitus placed two white oval crystals on the table they were all around.

Sortitus placed his hand on the nearest ones, “These way stones act as both compasses and a way to shut the hole.”

Shining nodded, “Alright, so how are we doing this?”

Sortitus conjured a scroll as a list appeared that read,

Earth:
Martin
Pinkie Pie
Twilight
Rainbow Dash
Shining Armor
Luna
Sortitus

Equestria:
Alan
Lupe
Fluttershy
Applejack
Cadance
Celestia
Aequivalere

Everyone was surprised at the roster but did not question it as Celestia took one stone and Cadance took the other. Phobos was not amused in the least at not having his name on the list.

Sortitus looked at him, “You must ensure The Sanctuary and the multiverse stay intact as we do this.”

Phobos nodded, “Fine.”

Sortitus nodded, “Alright we best get underway lest we are too late.”

Martin opened the bridge as they all stepped through into his house and gasped. His entire living room seemed to have weird blue plants and vines growing out of the walls, ceiling, and floor.

Pinkie Pie stopped Martin from touching the flower in front of him, “You REALLY don’t want to do that.”

Martin looked beside him and saw a blue haired and blue eyed young adult male dressed in a humanized version of Shining Armor’s clothes.

Shining clicked his boots together, “Alright team, LETS MOVE OUT!”

They all responded, “SIR YES SIR!”

They all opened the front door and their jaws hit the floor at what they saw.

Chapter 9: It All Comes Crashing Down

Martin pointed at the street with a still shocked expression. Springing forth from the concrete were apple trees and bits and pieces of different buildings of varying architecture were littering his front lawn.

Shining Armor walked up to what looked like the top of a tower, “This looks like one of the spikes on The Statue of Freedom’s crown.”

Sortitus swore under his breath, “It seems my estimate for the convergence was off. It has already begun!”

Luna glanced at the aspect, “But why hasn’t it reached Ponyville or Canterlot yet?”

Sortitus looked at the reddening sky, “The areas susceptible to the convergence vary depending on location. It’s all a matter of time now.”

Rainbow cracked her knuckles, “Then lets shifts into turbo and find that portal!”

Sortitus stopped her for a second, “do not be too hasty. I’m not sure what the convergence could be doing to all of your abilities or to just all of us individually.”

Pinkie Pie looked at Martin, “Hmmm, Martin why don’t you try flying.”

Martin jumped before Sortitus could object and hovered at level with his roof then plopped onto the ground causing a grunt of pain.

Luna and Rainbow then spoke in unison, “Not good.”

*

In Ponyville Lupe was waving the stone in the air back and forth as it seemed to glow one second and stopped the next, “I think it’s broken.”

Rarity examined it, “Nope. I still sense whatever magic is inside of it is working at full capacity. The problem is you’re not doing it right.”

Applejack looked at her with a raised eyebrow, “Ah suppose you know what the right way is?”

Rarity blushed in embarrassment, “Well…I didn’t say that.”

Cadance glanced at both of them, “Arguing isn’t helping the situation girls.”

Celestia nodded, “Indeed, we must double our efforts,” she looked at the sky and noticed the clouds blackening and the sky steadily becoming a volcanic red, “Time is running out.”

*

Shining Armor was slowly waving the stone in a horizontal sweeping motion as Rainbow groaned, “Found anything yet?”

Shining spoke while still looking at the crystal, “Nothing yet…wait a minute.”

*

Lupe held the stone up, “I got a signal!”

*

Rainbow Dash sighed, “Finally, how far and what direction?”

Shining Armor pointed, “Due east.”

Martin looked in the direction, “That’s downtown though, it’ll be like trying to find a needle in a haystack.”

Shining Armor held the stone up as a statue of Celestia appeared behind him, “Not if you have a metal detector.”

*

Alan was gradually releasing bolts of electricity from palm to palm, “Hey.”

The group looked at him as Alan lowered his hands, “My charge was just subjected to the dimmer switch.”

Aequivalere was puzzled, “It seems that the convergence of the two worlds has most likely halved your powers along with Martin’s.”

Alan was not too happy with this revelation as they reached Rarity`s Boutique. When they arrived at the location the stone was glowing as bright as a miniature sun.

Lupe pointed at the door, “This is the place.”

Aequivalere approached, “Excellent.”

Rarity approached both of them, “Then close it and be done with it.”

Aequivalere shook his head, “We cannot until the others have arrived at the other side.”

*

They others at that time were hoofing it in the direction as the stone began to glow brighter and fade occasionally only for it to brighten as they corrected their course. As they ran they began to notice more Equestrian culture was appearing around them along with the occasional frightened pony which in turn caused several humans to become greatly frightened. As they ran and neared the anomaly, Martin suddenly clenched his shoulder in pain.

Twilight motioned for the others to keep going as Twilight caught her friend, “What’s the matter?”

Martin spoke through gritted teeth as he broke out into a sweat, “My shoulder feels like it’s on fire!”

Twilight moved his hand and gasped. Under the fabric of the shirt was a black glow that was steadily beating.

Martin noticed it, “What’s wrong with me?”

Twilight thought for a second, “Martin, wasn’t this the shoulder that Phobos hit with his sword?”

Martin nodded as she moved the fabric aside and pressed her hand to it with shut eyes. However as she did this, black electricity arched to her hand causing her to yelp in pain and go limp in Martin’s arms.

*

Twilight looked around the twisted looking living room of Martin’s Equestrian home with shock and awe only to be distracted by somepony clearing their throat. She turned her head and noticed Martin…or something that looked like him leering at her from an armchair.

Dark Martin approached her and placed a bone like claw under her chin, “Mama don’t like nosey children.”

Twilight screamed as the claw began to sink into her skin.

*

Twilight snapped out of her trance and crawled away from Martin in fear, “WHAT WAS THAT!?”

The glow dimmed slightly but didn’t leave as Martin helped the trembling woman to her feet, “Twilight what the hell happened?”

Twilight shuddered at the memory, “Something is inside you…something…evil and vile. But it seemed so familiar.”

Martin stared at her, “You saw him too didn’t you?”

Twilight slowly nodded making a sigh arise from Martin, “Then at least I know I’m NOT crazy.”

Twilight gestured for him to follow her as they ran to catch up with the group.

They soon found them staring at a white hole that was imbedded in the side of the alleyway they had all arrived in. As they stared at the hole they noticed that the other group was staring back at them with relieved faces.

Sortitus approached the hole, “Alright, let’s close this thing.”

Shining Armor passed the stone to Sortitus as Aequivalere held his toward the portal on the Equestrian side. Soon a resounding boom was heard accompanied by a white flash and the portal was shut…except for one small thing.

Cadance looked down at her new form which was garbed in a white dress gown as she stumbled from the sudden shift in proportion into her husband’s open arms, “Whoa…this is new.”

Shining smiled, “Don’t worry, it’s all about finding your center of balance.”

Everypony cheered in victory as Rainbow flexed her left arm, “Once again we have saved the world from jeopardy.”

Alan and she both embraced causing surprised stares from everypony as Alan smiled, “Yeah…forget to tell you all.”

Fluttershy pointed up, “Um I don’t mean to interrupt but I don’t think our worlds in jeopardy at the moment.”

Everypony looked up as the temperature increased and the sky literally began to burn as a hole opened up. Soon a large shape erupted into the sky shedding a large dark shadow accompanied by embers which rained down. The shape was a massive flaming bird with feathers of ash and eyes of the brightest flame. Every crease on its body along with what seemed to be cracks glowed with internal fiery heat.

A screech was heard from its maw causing every civilian and pony alike to run for cover as a blast of pure heat and fire erupted from its open maw and scorched a line of the city before it.

Martin covered his ears, “I DON’T GET IT WE CLOSED THE PORTAL!!!”

Sortitus yelled back as another jet of flame scorched another section of the city, “THE HOLE MUST HAVE JUST GOTTEN JUST BIG ENOUGH TO ACCOMMODATE HER!!”

Alan then let loose a yell, “FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFUUU…..”

*

Meanwhile in Antarctica

An eskimo looked up as a loud, “UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!,” was heard.

*

Alan breathed, “UCK!’

Martin looked at him in surprise, “Vegeta rage much?”

Alan panted, “Sorry.”

Sortitus looked up at the sky only to yell, “WATCH OUT!”

Sortitus threw up a barrier as a jet of flame hit the block they were on as they all noticed Averius turn her attention to just them specifically.

Celestia looked to the rest of them as she raised her hand and her entire being began to glow white as her irises became fiery red accompanied with her hair becoming literal fire as she fired a ball of condensed light, fire and magic at Averius which caused the great beast to cringe in pain and anger as she prepared to fire a second jet of flame. Lupe looked at Sortitus who was still providing cove as Celestia hurled more magic projectiles at Averius.

Sortitus yelled at the rest of them, “I CAN NOT KEEP THIS UP FOREVER!”

Aequivalere nodded, “Understood.”

He then quickly ported the rest of the group except for Sortitus, Luna and Celestia to appear behind the massive fire bird on the ground as Aequivalere fired another ball of energy at the bird. With Twilight, Rarity, and Alan pooling in their own attacks causing Averius to become attacked from both sides.

Martin looked up, “it’s not working.”

He then looked at the sky as his eyes widened. The hole Averius had come through was still open and churning with energy.

He then ran to Aequivalere, “Can the stones close the ANY anomaly?”

Aequivalere looked to the sky, “OF COURSE!”

Martin took the stones from the aspect and ran into the scorched land before him. Lupe looked after him and followed close behind him.

Martin stopped in the middle of the intersection as Lupe cleared him some room with her telekinesis as Martin produced the stones and examined them. As he did, the burning sensation reappeared with more ferocity which he ignored as best as he could.

Lupe looked at him, “What’s the plan?”

Martin pointed at Averius and the portal respectively as he spoke, “Get that back into that and shut it,” he then clinked the stones together, “with these.”

Lupe then pointed something out, “How are you going to do that?”

Martin then sighed, “Didn’t get that far yet.”

Lupe looked up as Averius noticed Martin and the stones and inhaled deeply and breathed a much larger jet of flame. Martin looked up with wide eyes as the flame engulfed both him and Lupe.

Everypony present then yelled, “NOOOOOO!!”

The rest of it was caught in their throats when they saw the fire being pushed back from the two humans. Everypony noticed that Lupe seemed to be pushing it back with a large cone of solidified air which shocked them all.

Lupe yelled over the roar of the flames as the heat singed her hair down to shoulder length, “GET MOVING!”

Martin bolted away under the jet of flames as he ran toward Sortitus’s location as Lupe yelled over the fire, “I’VE BEEN BURNED BY WORSE BITCH!!!”

Martin approached Sortitus as he quickly stated while pointing at Averius, “How good is your aim!”

Sortitus smiled as the aspect levitated him only for Martin to tell Sortitus, “Hit her with everything!”

Sortitus nodded as he hurled the human toward Averius and both he, the princesses, his brother, and all other magic users present fired complete beams of power at the giant avian forcing her backwards into the hole against her will. As Martin was closing in the burning became unbearable as he yelled in both agony and determination as he was almost touching Averius.

Averius was halfway through when Martin hurled toward the open hole and yelled, “SEE YOU IN HELL!!!”

Martin tossed both glowing stones into the hole and shielded his eyes as the hole snapped shut with a cataclysmic smash hurtling him toward the ground like a bullet. He noticed for a fleeting moment a shape and voice during his decent.

A women with fire colored hair that was waist length with parted bangs wearing an ash colored cloak with kind yellow eyes and a youthful face smiled at him and spoke in a kind voice as the upper half of the great firebird began to fall with him and burn up, “Thank You.”

Martin uttered a quiet, “anytime.”

He then yelled out as he began to fall toward the ground….then appeared on the ground unconscious in a flash of white.

Everypony looked up in amazement as the upper half plummeted. The amazement soon turned to fear as it began to burn bright and flare with flames.

Lupe looked at everypony as her frightened face turned to one of steely determination, “Get behind me.”

Then like a nuke the upper half exploded in a tsunami of white hot and blue flame. Time seemed to stop as Lupe stared at the explosion, in the back of her mind something clicked as her pupils dilated to their maximum extent. In that instance the explosion was smacked into and was suspended in the air by a massive invisible barrier as everyone gasped in amazement as the explosion was slowly dissipating. The barrier ruptured as the flames cooled and smacked into Lupe hurling her into Fluttershy’s arms.

Lupe’s eyes opened and saw that her clothes were slightly singed and she had ash on her as did everypony else, “I’m not burned.”

Fluttershy looked at her, “how is that possible?”

Sortitus raised his hand, “That’s not important now. All of you get to Martin’s while I and Aequivalere fix the damage on Earth.”

*

An hour passed and Martin showed no sign of waking up much to Applejack’s sadness. She was reassured that at any moment he would wake up with a smile on his face. Everypony else was sitting in the kitchen waiting for their turn at the shower as Rainbow banged on the door.

Rainbow yelled into the bathroom, “Rarity hurry up! SOME of us have to use the shower in this century!”

Rarity responded with her humming a tune causing Rainbow to groan in anger.

She was about to break in and drag Rarity out by her hair until she heard Pinkie yell, “MARTIN’S AWAKE!”

Rainbow ran downstairs but stopped halfway when Applejack began to back away from Martin who was smiling maliciously at her with completely black eyes.

Before anypony could react, Martin grabbed AJ on either side of her head causing her pupils to shrink as she collapsed in unison with Martin who followed afterwards.

Twilight checked them both with a look of surprise when the magic scan was complete, “I don’t believe it.”

Cadance looked at her, “What is it?”

Twilight stood in astonishment, “Martin’s somehow managed to both pull in and link Applejacks mind with his own.”

Alan looked at her worried, “Can she be pulled out?”

Twilight shook her head, “It’s a rock hard connection. If I even attempt a separation I could leave their minds in a permanent state of limbo.”

Fluttershy was worried as well, “what do we do then?”

Twilight sighed, “The only thing we can do, wait and see. The only way they’ll be separated is if the one who caused it reverses it.”

Alan looked at her, “Twilight, you know what did this don’t you?”

Twilight nodded, “Yes and I think I now know what IT or more accurately WHO and WHAT it is.”

*

Applejack was standing in the foyer of Martin’s Equestrian home and was frantically looking around, “MARTIN! SORTITUS! TWILIGHT! CAN ANYPONY HEAR ME!!!”

A chuckle was heard behind her, “A screamer eh? I like that in a woman.”

Applejack slowly turned around and was face to face with Dark Martin who flashed her a toothy grin with fang like canine teeth as his completely black eyes changed slightly. Blood red rings appeared in both of his eyes where his irises would be and glowed menacingly.

Dark Martin chuckled once more as the pony backed into a wall, “Don’t worry my dear I don’t bite…hard.”

Dark Martin raised both his eyebrows a few times only to be booted in the crotch as AJ ran out toward the front door as Dark Martin yelled, “AND into rough play GOD YOUR SEXY!!!”

Applejack threw open the door and dropped into blackness as Dark Martin’s laughter followed her all the way down.

*

Martin awoke inside of the same mirror he was thrown into by his doppelganger banging and yelling soundlessly in his attempt to escape.

The end of this inferno is next.

Chapter 10: I Can't Live Within You

Alan and the rest of the humanized ponies were all shocked at what Twilight had told them, “Your saying that THING in his head is…”

Twilight slowly nodded

Alan looked at the unconscious bodies of Martin & Applejack who had been moved to Martin’s bed and were lying side by side, “I hope they make it out in one piece.”

*

Applejack landed hard on the ground but barely felt the impact. She managed to stand up and glanced around her surroundings. She saw she was in a gigantic room composed of black and white tiles for the floor, no roof, and mirrors for walls.

Applejack looked at each mirror and trembled as the reflections stared back at her with smiles. She was looking around frantically trying to find a door but to no avail as her reflection continued staring and smiling at her. AJ accidently backed into one of the mirrored walls and was pushed to the ground by something behind her. She turned her head as her eyes widened in complete surprise at the thing that pushed her.

The being was her except she was completely grey with green AJ’s green eyes, “Long time no see.”

Applejack pointed at her double, “You…how are you…”

Discord AJ approached her gesturing around, “Ah never left ah was merely suppressed in the back of yer mind and let me tell ya it’s very cramped in there.”

Applejack stood fast and readied herself, “Alright you dark reflection where in the hay am ah?”

Discord AJ just laughed, “You’re in HIS world.”

Applejack looked around once more, “Whose world?”

Discord AJ was then broken to pieces by a talon like claw swipe revealing Dark Martin as he coldly stated, “MY WORLD.”

His skin was much paler then before and his hair had become jet black as he cackled at the frightened human who immediately ran toward the farthest wall. AJ saw the mirror approaching and put her strongest side forward as she smashed through it and into a hallway as the mirror reassembled behind her plunging the hallway into complete darkness. Soon a pair of glowing red rings appeared behind her followed by a chorus of bone chilling laughter causing her to run. Not once did she glance behind her as she ran down the never ending tunnel of blackness.

Applejack then yelled out as loud as she could, “SOMEPONY! ANYPONY! HELP ME!!!!”

*

Martin was sitting in a completely dark space with only a pane of reflective glass as his company. He couldn’t see out of his prison, he could only see himself and his prison in a continually moving picture. He sighed once more until a shape appeared in the glass which caused him to look up and stand.

Dark Martin smiled, “Like the accommodations?”

Martin glared at his dark half, “What do you want?”

Dark Martin breathed a sigh of relief as he raised his hands in the air, “You’ve finally asked the right question.”

Martin crossed his arms, “Well?”

Dark Martin paced, “Well for starters I was thinking of taking over this meat suit and reeking untold havoc as per-usual when I find a host. And probably get “friendly” with that cow girl, after all a king needs a queen.”

Martin flung himself at the mirror, “YOU STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM HER YOU BASTARD!!”

Dark Martin trembled, “Ooooh I’m so scared. You’re in no position to be making threats boy,” he then made a window appear beside his head revealing AJ running from an invisible foe; “I hold all the cards.”

Martin banged on the glass, “When I get out of here I’m going to…”

Dark Martin smiled, “You’ll have to catch me first Marty. When I’m done with her and the rest of the world, Darkness and The Night will RULE OVER ALL!!!”

Dark Martin then began laughing as he vanished; Martin then punched the mirror with all of his might causing a hairline crack to appear.

*

Applejack kept running as fast as her legs could carry her but she was losing her breath until she noticed light coming from underneath a door crease far ahead of her. She managed to grab the knob and wrenched the door open and slammed it shut behind her. The room she was in was well lit and seemed to have black walls and a roof with polished marble tiles. AJ breathed a sigh of relief only for it to catch in her throat as Dark Martin appeared in front of her and pulled the humanized pony close to him. He was now sporting a black zoot suit with a pair of red tipped ram-like horns protruding from the sides of his head as jazz music began playing and he then sung softly.

“Why'd you run away?
Don't you like my style?”

His black zoot suit became a white tuxedo with a blood red dress shirt and black bowtie as he stepped away and beckoned for her to approach him.

“Why don't you come and play?
I guarantee a great big smile!”

AJ looked down and saw she was dressed in a black ball gown as she suddenly found herself in Dark Martin’s arms and they began to dance in rhythm with the beat.

“I reside in this imagination
And I'm here strictly for your exhilaration
So what do you say?
Why don't we dance awhile?”

AJ then slapped him causing Dark Martin to playfully growl as AJ bolted for the door only for it to vanish. She turned and saw Dark Martin playfully advancing on her. Soon she pressed herself against the wall as Dark Martin traced his talon like finger along her right cheek.

“I'm the hottest swing
I'm the twist and shout.”

AJ grabbed his hand in anger only for him to twirl her on her feet into a leaning position on his arms.

“When you gotta sing,
When you gotta let it out
You call me and I come a-running
I turn the music on; I bring the fun in
Now, we're partying
That's what it's all about.”

Dark Martin leaned forward and sang in a more seductive tone.

“Cuz I know, what you feel, girl
I know just what you feel, girl.”

AJ punched him this time as he reeled back in pain, “Listen here ya freak! You may have his face and voice but you are not MARTIN!”

Dark Martin rubbed his chin, “True.”

AJ pointed at him, “How ARE ya here anyway?”

Dark Martin gestured to the heavens as he sang more.

“He brought me down and doomed this town
But when we blow this scene,
Back we will go to my kingdom of dark and you will be my queen!
Cuz I know what you feel, girl”

AJ shook her head,

“No, you see
You and me
Will never be real!”

Dark Martin grabbed her hand once more,

“I'll make it real, girl!”

Applejack tried to pull away,

“What I mean
You’re insane
So, this queen thing's one-sided!”

Dark Martin took on a more aggressive tone,

“I can bring all these cities to ruin
And still have time to get a soft-shoe in!”

AJ wrenched her hand free as she began to back up and sang in a sarcastic tone,

“Well, that's great
But I'm late
And I'd hate to delay him.”

Dark Martin ignored her as he advanced on her,

“Something's cooking, I'm at the griddle
I brought crazy here for a little…”

Applejack cut him off with a faster response,

“He'll get pissed
Here’s a twist
See, my lover’s your “other”...”

Dark Martin stopped as the comment dawned on him, “Martin?”

AJ nodded with a confident smile, “Yuh-huh.”

He then chuckled as he turned away, “Interesting. But he will have to get here fast because….”, he then brought AJ in for a kiss which drained the light from her eyes as her body went limp,

“Now we're partying
That's what it's all about!”

*

Martin had watched the whole dark dance from his mirror which caused him to yell in rage and smash the mirror with both fists causing the mirror to crack more. Martin looked at Dark Martin who seemed to wink at him and picked up the unconscious AJ and carried her through a large set of double doors. Martin continued to smash at the mirror causing the cracks to worsen as he continued his assault. Outside the prison the glass bent outward and Martin blasted through and landed on his hands and knees as he looked up with a look of anger and blasted down the stairs and out the front door.

*

Dark Martin reclined on his throne as he sighed and looked to his right and opened his eyes as the door was busted down.

Dark Martin pointed at the busted door, “You’re going to have to pay for that.”

Martin pointed straight as the dark being and spoke in an angry tone, “Where is she!”

Dark Martin gestured to the far right where Applejack lay on the floor in the same dress she wore during the dance. Martin ran over to her and gently lifted her head; soft breathing was heard from the woman as Martin tried to wake her.

Dark Martin spoke in a deadpan tone, “she won’t wake unless I will it.”

Martin began to approach the throne only for a wall of black flames to spring up as the dark being tsked, “Uh uh, not so fast.”

Martin stepped back as Dark Martin walked through the flames and smiled at him, “Well…here we are again. A hero of Equestria fighting me to stave off certain destruction, seems a little redundant don’t you think?”

Martin looked at him confused, “You say it like this has happened before.”

Dark Martin smiled, “Of course it has after all I’ve been around longer then you.”

Martin shook his head, “That’s impossible.”

Dark Martin shook his head, “Not really. You see I have seen many things and used many a host.”

Martin realized the wording, “WHO are you?”

Dark Martin turned around and kept speaking, “Well I have had many names. In fact one of those names stuck with me because I particularly liked the sound of it.”

Dark Martin turned to face Martin as he wrote words in the air out of black fire that spelled out, “I am Darkness and Fear, I was an Aspect, I was a Princess, I am destruction, I am night itself”.

Martin stared wide eyed as Dark Martin waved his hands causing letters to separate from the sentences and rearrange themselves into one sentence that spelled out one sentence which caused Martin to take a step back, “I WAS AND AM NIGHTMARE MOON.”

Nightmare Moon’s eyes changed to emerald serpentine ones as he smiled, “So nice to finally meet you in person Mr. Fairbridges now that the charade has dropped.”

Martin pointed at Nightmare, “But Twilight and the ponies beat you how are you?”

Nightmare waved it off, “Oh please those ponies and their elements merely banished my presence from that snivelling Princess Luna so I had to go back to my first host Phobos.”

Martin was still confused, “But how were you even created?”

Nightmare shrugged, “To put it simply, I always existed. I merely preyed on the despair and dark emotions of many to further my strength and hold. Eventually I found Phobos and possessed him, some tinkering and I was given shape and form.”

Martin looked down, “And when Luna first became Nightmare Moon you did the same thing.”

Nightmare flicked him on the nose, “Exactly.”

Martin looked at him, “but why me?”

Nightmare appeared behind him, “Simple, it’s because I see untapped potential inside you and all that rage and anger deep down OOOOOH the fun I could have,” he gestured to himself, “Of course the makeover comes free of charge.”

Martin pushed him away, “No deal.”

Nightmare chuckled, “Who said you had a choice in the matter.”

Nightmare then back handed Martin into a wall which cracked and caved inward upon impact, “You don’t get it do you. During that fight with Phobos I sensed my grip loosening so when Phobos stabbed you I inserted a fragment of my being into you until I could grow back to my full strength.”

Martin slowly got to his feet as Nightmare hurled him into his throne with no effort, “Geez, at least the Princess attempted to resist. This is just a sad excuse for a struggle.”

Martin barely managed to stand until Nightmare slashed him across the chest.

*

Martin’s body convulsed as a bit of blood trickled from his mouth enticing collective gasps from all present.

Alan snapped and yelled at the unconscious Martin, “KICK IT’S ASS DUDE! YOU’RE NOT ALONE!”

*

Martin’s eyes opened slightly, “Alan?”

Nightmare grasped Martin by the throat and plunged his claws into Martin’s stomach enticing a gasp of breath from both him and AJ who woke up and witnessed the act, “That’s right my dear, I want you to watch.”

Black ooze began to surge from the stomach wound and began to cover Martin’s body from head to toe. He looked at AJ before the ooze consumed him and was absorbed into Nightmare who laughed in victory.

He then approached tearful Applejack, “Oh don’t worry my dear. You still have me.”

Applejack then spoke in desperation, “Martin ah know you’re in there. Please fight him ah believe in you.”

Nightmare just laughed, “Your calls are in vain, he can’t hear you. Now once I’m done with you I’ll…,” Nightmare Moon’s hands began trembling as he then clutched his head in pain and yelled, “IMPOSSIBLE I BEAT YOU!!!”

Nightmare’s eyes then changed to Martin’s as his voice also came out of Nightmares mouth, “Get the hell out of my head,” then Nightmare and the entire mental realm exploded in a flash of soundless white.

*

Applejack sat straight up as Martin’s entire body convulsed and thrashed beside her only for his eyes to open and white light to shoot out of his mouth and eyes. This lasted for a few seconds until Martin passed out again.

He woke up a few minutes later and groggily asked Alan, “So you and Dash are an item now?”

Alan smiled as he placed an arm around RD’s shoulders until Pinkie hopped over to the bed, “How did you know that you could beat Nightmare?”

Martin sat up, “I just hung on to a piece of myself and the power that I still had from the elements and released it from the inside.”

Applejack hugged him, “That was stupid and reckless. But ah’m glad you’re safe.”

Martin hugged her back, “Me too.”

*

Hours passed by before all but Applejack headed back to their places of living. Before the mass departure took place however, Sortitus informed them that the damage was fixed and that no one on Earth would remember anything now. Martin thanked him as he and Aequivalere left his house leaving Martin and AJ alone soon after.

Martin sat down on his bed and breathed a sigh of exhaustion, “I need a vacation.”

Applejack sat next to him, “Ah think you mean WE need a vacation.”

Martin nodded, “I would like that.”

Applejack smiled, “We could start right now and ah have the perfect activity took kick things off.”

Martin looked at her confused, “I don’t follow you.”

Applejack rolled her eyes as she threw off her hat and undid her hair as she tackled Martin to the bed.

Epilogue

Ponyville was in the midst of a celebration of being saved and not being destroyed by the convergence. Four individuals were not in attendance however. Both RD, AJ, Alan, and Martin sent a note saying that they were going on a vacation until a day before the ceremony of Martin’s knighting which their friends agreed on. Lupe was being more social and was making many friends and the royal sisters treated her more like a part of the family. However far off from Ponyville past the Everfree forest in a swamp like land with organic looking vegetation with odd green orbs attached to the black branches sat three individuals around a pool of water looking at the celebration.

One with a horn and green eyes with slits looked at the scene with distaste, “Look at them, they celebrate for such menial reasons.”

The other just laughed, “OH but what a surprise they’ll get when WE crash they’re party.”

The third who was wearing a hooded cloak sat in the shadows, “No. Not yet.”

The horned one looked at him, “Why not? Now is the opportunity to strike.”

The hooded one shook his head, “Not yet. Let them celebrate and let them cheer. Once they let down their guard…,” he looked up as gold irises shined ominously in the darkness, “We shall take this kingdom for our own.”

All three villains then laughed as the celebration kicked into full swing

Next is Martin: Endgame, the final martin story. I hope you all enjoy.

Chapter 1: Meeting Royalty Act II

Martin came through the front door with Alan in tow as the rain outside bore down upon them.

Martin cast a look out the door, “The thing I hate about winter here is the fact that we get rain instead of snow.”

Alan then quickly added, “Well that and the flu.”

Martin nodded, “True.”

Both humans walked into the kitchen and saw that a scroll lay upon the kitchen table with a familiar scrawl etched on it. For a few weeks Martin had been getting them delivered to his door both figuratively and literally by Derpy Hooves who had made his house one of her delivery route stops. Thankfully Sortitus had added an auto clothe function to the bridge as to not cause any…awkward entries. Martin was soon up in his room packing a duffel bag of essentials as his thoughts turned to the incident that transpired three weeks ago concerning Lupe and Sortitus and a frown appeared on his face as his packing slowed down. He remembered the day Lupe was banished and everything afterward in horrible clarity even though he tried to forget about it and move on. He shook his head of the dark melancholy thoughts and zipped up the bag to prepare for his and Alan’s departure to Equestria because he had decided his three week moping period was over.

He came downstairs to find Alan checking his watch impatiently, “About time you got here dude. What were you doing packing away nasty secrets?”

Martin sighed, “No, just packing toothpaste and what not.”

Alan clapped his hands together as he stood up and pointed at the door, “Let’s roll my good man.”

Martin gave a light chuckle as he pulled his key out but stopped in mid stride noticing the scroll, “When did this arrive?”

Alan shrugged, “I thought you knew.”

Martin picked it up and stashed it in his bag as he passed the key to Alan, “You care to do the honours?”

Alan smiled as he pressed the key to the knob and a loud clicking was heard as he passed the key to Martin. Both humans inhaled as Martin opened the door and both friends stepped into the light…and emerged into chaos. Ponies were running around screaming as what could only be described as a chimera was attacking Ponyville with massive ferocity. Its snake tail hissed at various ponies as it used its ram head to smash various stalls and booths.

Alan looked at Martin who grinned slightly as he removed his coat revealing a white t-shirt, “Time to go to work.”

Martin then vanished in a blink of an eye which caused Alan to jump in surprise. Soon the chimera roared in surprise as it was smacked in the face several times then thrown out of town by its snake tail.

The Mayor looked around in confusion, “What in the name of..?”

She was cut off by a laugh from above her as Martin turned visible and was floating a couple of feet above her head, “Jeez, I’m away for three weeks and a chimera attacks? Honestly you ponies NEED to call me more often.”

The Mayor smiled as Martin landed beside her, “Well we thought we could handle it but clearly you are more equipped for the situation.”

Martin smiled as Alan weaved through the crowd, “You are such a ham dude.”

All the ponies looked at Alan in surprise as Martin walked over to him, “Everypony this is my friend Alan Washington. Please make him feel welcome.”

Everypony cheered at the humans as they all began chatting with both of them in unison only for a loud whistle to be heard accompanied by a familiar voice, “I say girls; it seems we have to celebrities that have forgotten about the small ponies.”

The crowd parted to reveal the six staring at them with smiles as Martin and Alan walked to them, “Who are you all again?”

AJ softly punched Martin in the leg, “Very funny, howya been you two?”

Alan looked around with wide eyes, “I cannot believe I am actually standing in the square if Ponyville…”, he turned his head and noticed Lyra staring at him with a grin, “…AND Lyra Heartstrings at my back!”

Martin rolled his eyes as he whispered at the six, “He hasn’t shut up about coming here for a week.”

All of the six laughed as Alan allowed Lyra to examine his hands with glee.

*

Soon they were all at Twilights sipping drinks as Alan was browsing the shelves in awe which Martin noticed, “Are you going to do this everywhere we go?”

Alan did not hesitate in his answer, “Yes.”

Martin groaned as he turned back to Twilight, “Sorry about this.”

Twilight raised a hoof, “It’s completely fine. I am actually flattered that he has taken an interest in our in culture.”

Martin had a straight face, “Interest is a bit of an understatement.”

They all shared a laugh once more until some of the six informed Martin that they had to run errands but would catch up with him later. Twilight, Martin and Alan chatted for a few hours until Twilight remembered something.

She pointed at Martin, “Did you get the scroll I sent you by any chance?”

Martin pulled it out, “Yeah why?”

Twilight looked at him, “you didn’t read it?”

Martin stared at the scroll, “Yeah, is it important?”

Twilight was about to answer until a knock was heard which Martin said he would get. He opened the door and stared at the pony before him. The Unicorn had a white coat and cerulean eyes with a blue mane and matching hooves and his cutie mark was a shield with stars on it. He wore a red fancy coat with gold trim and returned Martin’s stare.

Martin raised an eyebrow, “Hi.”

The unicorn mirrored his reaction, “Hi.”

The unicorn looked past him, “is my sister home?”

A look of realization appeared on his face as he turned to look inside, “Twilight your brothers here!”

Twilight teleported to Martin’s side as Shining Armour smiled at his sister, “Hey Twilly.”

Martin stifled a laugh as Twilight gave him a look which he immediately took interest in the ceiling as she smiled at Shining, “Shining Armour this is my friend Martin Fairbridges, the one I told you about in my letters.”

Shining Armour looked at Martin with a friendly smile, “So you’re the one who saved my sister and Equestria? Thank you for your help.”

Martin fist/hoof bumped Shining, “Anytime dude.”

A voice was heard from behind Armour, “Honey could you please move?”

Shining moved immediately an Alicorn walked up to Martin with a look of surprise and fascination to which Martin smiled, “Princess Mi Amore Cadenza I presume?”

Cadance smiled as she waved a hoof dismissively, “Please don’t be so formal, call me Cadance.”

Martin moved out of the way and noticed something which made him face palm, Alan was kneeling on one knee in respect as Martin gestured, “This is Alan Washington….my friend.”

Cadance smiled as she tapped Alan on the head causing him to look up, “You don’t have to kneel, any friend of Twilights is a friend of ours.”

Alan stood up as he smiled, “Sorry, old habit.”

Martin rolled his eyes once more as they all sat down.

Shining Armour looked at Martin, “Is it true what they say about you? That you are from another world and can do feats nopony can do?”

Cadance nudged her husband, “Please dear don’t bother him about that.”

Martin raised his hand, “It’s no trouble. Yes it’s all true; I could do a demonstration if you both want.”

Cadance looked a little embarrassed at the offer, “We don’t want to be a bother.”

Shining Armour nodded, “Yeah, you don’t have to-“

Martin shook his head, “Everypony outside for feats beyond awesome.”

*

Martin stood on the grass as Twilight, Shining Armour, Alan and Cadance watched from some lawn furniture as Martin addressed a boulder in front of him which caused Alan to yell, “You can do it Martin, Show Tom who’s boss!”

Martin cracked his knuckles which went invisible and back again in a blink of an eye much to Shining and Cadance’s surprise. Martin then grabbed Tom and flew it up in the air in a blink of an eye, soon the rest of the six showed up and greeted the present royalty.

Dash looked at Alan, “Where’s Martin?”

Alan pointed up in response as every being craned their heads upwards only to see Tom smack back into the ground with a bang as Martin landed on top of it with a smirk, “Cool right?”

Cadance nodded, “That was impressive and AMAZING!”

Shining Armour nodded his agreement, “You should sign up for the royal guard. You would make a great guardsmen.”

Martin waved it off, “Nah, thanks for the offer though.”

Cadance looked surprised, “but surely you would want a position that would be fitting of your title.”

Martin raised an eyebrow, “Huh?”

Shining Armour smiled, “We came here because of the ceremony that all royals are going to attend.”

Martin was even more confused as all the other ponies smiled leaving both humans confused even more, “What ceremony?”

Cadance spoke with equal confusion, “The ceremony where Princess Celestia is set to knight you of course.”

Martin and Alan were both wide eyed as they spoke at once, “WHAT?!”

Chapter 6: Date Night (Not The Movie)

Twilight was frantic with worry as she continued to check various types of charts, equations, and readouts on Martin’s new condition. Everypony else was freaking out at their human friends appearance as Martin was sitting quietly staring into space not knowing how to act or respond to anything at the moment. Martin then looked at AJ who seemed unusually calm at the whole situation which was a complete contrast to her friends.

Rarity was a mess in some terms, “THIS IS AWFUL!! I NOW MUST make a whole new wardrobe for you. OH but the timing itself is horrible and I need to factor in new measurements…”

Pinkie was bouncing in excitement, “Now you can finally see things from our perspective. OH! I should throw you a Ponyfication party!”

Fluttershy was sort of indifferent, “Well…you look a little cuter this way…OH! That was rude of me. I’m sorry.”

Rainbow Dash was…currently sulking in a corner near the door mumbling things which confused the rest of them ever since she walked in. Alan however was both smug and content as he stared at the procession before him. Martin was thinking hard on his current situation and the previous night’s nightmare. That thing he saw wearing his face was almost a…demonic and twisted version of him. The only thing that it was missing was a pair of devil horns and glowing red eyes. The transformed human looked up and let out a yelp of surprise as he saw the Dark Martin in a nearby mirror which also caused him to fall out of his chair.

Twilight ran over to the downed unicorn, “Oh my gosh! Are you okay?”

Rarity looked at Martin’s face, “Darling you’re absolutely pale like you’ve just seen a ghost.”

Martin gave his head a shake, “It…it was nothing. It was just a trick of the light.”

Applejack noticed Alan’s expression and addressed him with a look of suspicion, “An what in tarnation are you so smug about?”

Alan turned to Dash, “why don’t you ask her.”

AJ turned to Rainbow, “What’s he talkin about?”

Rainbow mumbled something in response.

Rarity thought she heard her name in the sentence, “Pardon?”

Rainbow sighed as she crossed her front legs annoyance, “I need your help to pick out something to wear for a…”, she gagged a little, “…Date.”

Rarity’s eyes lit up, “OH DASH! I am so happy you finally found somepony and I’m touched you would suck up your pride and ask for my help. But before I help I must know who the special somepony is.”

Rainbow only answered with an annoyed look while she pointed at Alan. This caused Rarity to do a double take which was accompanied by her clearing her throat and bouncing a curl.

Rarity then spoke in a calm tone, “well I’m not one to judge taste in men.”

Alan nodded with a grin which immediately vanished when the comment hit him, “HEY!”

*

Night had fallen on Equestria as Martin, Applejack, and Twilight were the only ones in her lab and they were all silent as mice. After a while of Twilight sifting through numerous papers she sighed as she levitated the results in front of her and trotted over to Martin and AJ.

Twilight sighed, “What I’m seeing here is…I don’t even know.”

Martin looked at her, “Give it to me straight Twi.”

Twilight sighed, “All the readouts say you’re a unicorn through and through. There isn’t a trace of you human DNA in here.”

Applejack gasped, “Sweet Celestia.”

Martin nodded slowly, “Do you think something could have caused this?”

Twilight shook her head, “It’s hard to say. There appears to be some sort of anomaly in the read out but I can’t make heads or tails of it. On a side not though it appears your magic aura…”, she looked at them, “Which is in all unicorns and measures how powerful their magic is. It’s exceptionally high which probably means that all the magic you’ve absorbed has been converted into your aura.”

Applejack nodded, “So Martin’s about as powerful as you then?”

Twilight blushed, “Actually he’s two steps above me.”

Martin smiled apologetically, “Sorry.”

Twilight shook her head, “It’s no problem. However I suggest that we figure out what caused this and see if we can somehow reverse it.”

Martin nodded, “Amen to that.”

Applejack chuckled slightly which caused both unicorns to glance at her, “Oh no it’s nothing about this. I was just thinkin about what Rarity might have given Dash to wear for her date.”

This actually caused the unicorns to chuckle at thought as Martin smiled, “I’m more concerned about Dash’s sanity. Has she ever gone on a date before?”

Twilight shook her head, “Not as long as I’ve known her.”

Applejack smiled, “She HATES mushy stuff. I give her about an hour before she runs back with her tail between her legs.”

Dash however was outside the library and heard every word which caused her to fly to her place to retrieve her clothing, “Why of all the! They don’t think I can handle a date? Well I’ll show them!”

Back at her place she donned a white knee high party dress with matching heels on her hind hooves, “I can go on a date…”, she opened the bridge as the human Dash super sped out of the door and stopped in front of Alan’s apartment and proclaimed, “I CAN DO THIS!!”

TWENTY MINUTES LATER

Rainbow was standing with Alan as they waited to be given a table at the restaurant they were in with a VERY nervous and fidgety disposition and spoke in a low voice, “there is no WAY I can do this…”

After a long while of waiting, the waiter escorted both humans to their table which they soon sat down upon arriving. A Dash looked at the menu she began to feel her heart race. Never once had she felt this way about something so stupid as a date. The only time she had felt this nervous or her heart race like this was back when she used to be around Martin before he began dating AJ. She put down the menu when Alan did the same and they both ordered their food and sat in silence afterwards.

Alan looked at Dash, “something wrong?”

Dash looked at him, “No. Why do you ask?”

Alan pointed with a slight grin, “Because you’ve been fiddling with the bread basket for ten minutes now.”

Dash took her hands off immediately and placed her hands on her lap and took a sudden interest in the ceiling with a blush. Soon their food arrived and both of them dug in with gusto once the waiter left. Soon their food arrived and both of them dug in with gusto. Alan looked up from his food at the rainbow haired girl sitting across from him. He remembered when he first met her and all the time they spent together during her time on Earth. One event that brought a smile to his face was when he managed to steal a kiss from her during Eris’s attack.Plus he was as nervous as Dash was because this was not only his first date but he was having it with his favourite pony.

Rainbow noticed him staring with a smile, “What?”

Alan rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment, “I just noticed that you look really cute dressed up like this is all.”

Rainbow blushed slightly but gave her head a shake, “Hey…don’t get all mushy on me.”

Alan shook his head, “Me? Never.”

They then went back to eating in silence for while until it came time for the bill to paid. Alan paid and tipped on his way out with Rainbow beside him as they both headed back to his place to hang out and chill for the rest of the night. Soon they were both back at Alan’s as he sat on the couch while Dash rummaged through the fridge.

Dash sat next to him with a glass bottle of “Jack Daniels” in her hands.

Alan noticed this as she poured him a glass and handed it to him, “You sure you want to drink this?”

Dash gave a cocky smile, “Hey I’ve drank hard cider before. I THINK I can handle the Earths version of hard cider.”

Alan nodded, “It’s just that in some fics I’ve read it depicts you as either a lightweight or a violent drunk.”

Dash rolled her eyes, “You are SUCH an egghead. Cheers!”

Alan and Dash clinked their glasses together and drank.

*

Several hours passed by as Alan sat on the couch having his second glass whereas Dash was on her fourth going onto her fifth. When she got her first taste of the drink she went at it like it was milk. It still surprised Alan how she drank so much and hadn’t vomited. However at her insistence he broke out some brony beats and she was currently singing a slurred version of 20% Cooler. When she finished swaying to the beat and singing she plopped down next to Alan. The sudden shock caused her to giggle like a school girl.

Rainbow looked at Alan with a light blush plastered on her face, “Al yous are *hic* my bestest friend.”

Alan nervously smiled, “I think you might have had a little to much to drink Dash.”

Dash shook her head, “Nos I’m *hic* fine.”

Alan thought for a second, “Can I ask you why you don’t like other ponies touching your hooves?”

Rainbow looked at him after finishing her fourth glass, “SSure *hic* buts is a secret and you can’t tell anypony.”

Alan nodded, “Cross my heart and hope to fly stick a cupcake in my eye.”

Rainbow looked from side to side and whispered in his ear, “There really sensitive if *hic* you touch a certain spot on them *hic* a certain way.”

Alan looked at her surprised, “Really?”

Rainbow nodded as she leaned against Alan’s shoulder, “You know when yous *hic* kissed me?”

Alan nodded as she looked at him, “I kind of *hic* liked it.”

Alan was starting to heat up as she pressed against him and continued, “You know I used to have a *hic* crush on Martin before him and Apple*hic*jack began dating?”

Alan nodded slower as she pressed her chest against his and looked deep into his eyes, “Well ever since I met you and you did all that nice stuff *hic* for me and watched out for me…”

She began to lean closer, “Plus we are sort of alike and Marty and AJ are…”

She never finished because she pulled Alan into a deep passionate kiss that lasted for what seemed like an eternity.

*

The morning cam as it usually did on Earth, slow and blinding as hell for any early morning person. Alan was half covered by his sheets which were dishevelled as hell as he woke up. He sat up and yawned and realised an absence of…he saw a pile of familiar clothes at the foot of his bed on the floor. He then heard calm breathing beside him and looked over to see messy rainbow hair. He gingerly lifted the covers and saw Dash in the same boat as him in terms of absences of certain things and she was fast asleep with a content and calm smile on her face.

Alan leapt out of bed and got dressed as he walked into the bathroom and spoke in absolute disbelief to his reflection in the mirror, “I just got laid…by Rainbow Dash.”

He nodded as he left the bathroom and went to make breakfast for himself and his sleeping...guest.