Chapters Prologue - Mistakes were made
In a valley scarred and burnt by war lay a small grim town of those whom have either abandoned, Lost or have been rejected by their homes. The Residents were among many species, cultures and faiths but all were the same in being outcasts of their homeland, nestled on the edge of the small town was a tavern.
Within the tavern were a number of armed individuals, some were wanted others insane but apart from that, it was surprisingly peaceful in the dimly light facility. The peace was broken when the door was opened roughly and dramatically to reveal two newcomers, both were hooded figures whom observed the room before moving to sit at the bar.
"What can I get you both?" Asked the Dwarven bar keep as he cleaned an amber mug.
"Information mostly" asked one of the individuals which caused the bar keep to chuckle softly. "What is so funny?" The individual asked.
"You come to Witchwood for information..... Witchwood?" The Dwarf asked as the two nodded. "Oh well what kind of information do you want?" He asked as a barmaid fills up several pots of crimson brew before returning to the customers that ordered the drinks.
"My daughter and I desire a rough definition on the ponies... I mean people in this bar" the man said as he looked at the Dwarf with his gold and red eyes.
"Hmmm well there are King Slayer, Demon Hunters, Dragon Slayers, Murderers, Bandits and a Knight" The Tender told them.
"Knight? Now why would a Knight be here?" Asked the hooded man's daughter.
"Well let's see, he killed his Tyrant King for murdering his daughter" The dwarf explained.
"But wouldn't he be under King Slayer?" The daughter asked.
"Yes if he wasn't also under each other category also, if you want more information then go speak to him yourself, he is in the corner over there" he said pointing to a lone table that a armoured human sat at drinking.
"Thank you," the father said placing a few coins with a sun symbol on one side and a unicorn head on the other before the two walked over to the Knight.
The Knight looked up towards the hooded individuals approaching him and sit at his table without introduction. "Are you here to kill me, hire me or to steal from me?" He asked them causing one to laugh softly and shake his head.
"No, we desire you to help our homeland" the father said.
"With what?" The Knight asked sipping his drink.
"Well you see there is this group of evil individuals trying to take it over" the daughter explained as the knight nodded slowly.
"And what do I get out of it?" He replied.
"A new home, money, glory , whatever you desire" the father said causing the knight to laugh audibly.
"And how can you grant this hmmm? What makes you think I need any of that?" He asked.
"What would you little girl think if she could see what her father had become?" Asked the daughter causing the knight's smile to swiftly fade.
"Pick you next words carefully" he growled towards the woman.
"Look, if I died to some tyrant, yes I would expect my father to carry out vengeance by I wouldn't expect him to linger on my death and drive him away from his beliefs, no I expect him to continue what he was made to do. You are a Knight so we are offering you to become a Knight once more so you are not a failure" she said causing the knight to look down and think for a moment before sighing.
"So you two are royalty then?" He asked.
"No, i am besties with a couple though" the father said as the daughter face palmed.
"So you're telling me to give up living in this backwater town to go off to some land where I have to save your hides on a chance that I become a Knight once more?" He asked as the two nodded. "Well it's a better excuse to the reason I married my ex wife" he said before rising from his seat "What are your names anyway?" He asked as he grabbed his rucksack next to the table and slung it onto his back.
"My name is Discord, Lord of Chaos and this is my Daughter, Eris, Daughter of Chaos" he explained as the Knight nodded slowly before walking to the barkeeper and giving him a few gold coins.
"I am starting to get a bad feeling about this" he said turning back to the pair just as the one named Discord click his fingers and teleported the three out of the tavern.
(Equestria, Ponyville)
On the edge of the town Ponyville was a small cottage filled with animals ranging from birds to a large bear, the owner of the home was a young butter Pegasi mare named Fluttershy, she is the six foot three inch tall element of kindness who was so easily frightened. Currently she was feeding her animals in her home while her kettle boiled when her house mates Discord and Eris teleported into her home causing her to jump and give a quick frown to the mismatched Draconequus pair before smiling softly at them but her smile was cut short when she noticed a third person.
"U-um Discord, Why is Princess Celestia with you? I thought you were going to get somepony to help" the timid mare said causing a visible red question mark to appear above his head before he turned to see the ten foot tall alabaster Alicorn standing behind Eris with a confused look on her face and wielding a sword.
"Hello Discord" she said as her expression turned to an unamused one.
"Hello Tia..... how did yo...... Eris" Discord said turning his gaze to his daughter her had a shit eating grin on her face. "Really?" He asked.
"I couldn't help it dad" She protested.
"Do you at least know where the Knight is?" He asked.
"Yes I swapped him with Celestia" Eris said as the Alicorn Princess' eyes widened.
"But I was having a fuel with Luna" Tia said.
"Oh no" Discord and Eris said.
(Canterlot, Royal Palace)
Within the training arena of the Palace stood the nine foot tall midnight blue Alicorn mare in a starry black gown, she was confused as she looked to the seven foot tall creature across from her that resembled a Minotaur except his hooves were replaced with a different shape, he had no horns and he was hairless save for the rusty red and grey hair on his head and around his mouth and jawline. He was wearing armour on his chest and legs over the top of a type of black leather, his muscular arms were painted in tattoos which appeared to be some sort of clan marking. Apart from his appearance, he appeared to be peaceful save for the twin blades strapped to his back under a large backpack.
When he turned to look at Luna his eyebrow cocked as he took in her appearance before he shook his head and simply walked out the training room door and into the castle, as the door slammed shut, Luna snapped out of her thoughts and went after the creature but before she reached the door a popping sound was heard behind her making her turn to see her sister, Discord, Eris and the six mares known as the Elements of Harmony.
"Where is the Knight?" Celestia asked as she looked around.
"Loose in the castle" Luna said before looking at Discord and Eris.
"Why is there a malformed Minotaur even here?" She asked.
"He is a Human, not a Minotaur" Eris explained.
"You mean the thing Lyra always goes on about?" Asked a cyan six foot tall pegasus mare with Rainbow hair.
"Yes" Celestia said.
"Oh dear, the poor dear must be so confused and scared" Fluttershy said worriedly.
(Knight POV)
Upon exiting the training room the Knight managed to find the exit to the palace and reach a large market place filled with a multitude of species, most barely noticed the Knight as he walked through the town curious. After five minutes, the Knight discovered a emerald Unicorn mare whom was a good foot shorter than himself asking guards for help, but they ignored her so the human approached her and tapped her on the shoulder.
"Ahh... o-oh hello, I'm sorry you startled me" she said as her hand was held against her chest.
"My apologies my lady it was not my intention to frighten you but I couldn't help but notice you were trying to talk to the city guards, May I inquire why?" He asked in a deep voice.
"Oh well I have a spider in my basement and I am terrified of spiders so I was attempting to get a kind stallion to help me but no pony would help" she said sighing.
"Well I'm not a Pony and I'm not scared of spiders" the Knight said with a chuckle.
"Hmmm no, no your not.... so um would you help me please sir?" She asked him politely which he replied with a nod "Oh thank Celestia, follow me please" she said before she began to walk towards a small apartment complex with the human close behind.
Once they arrived, the mare showed him to the basement, where he slipped down into the dark, damp room where he was greeted by the sound of clicking and hissing. "Hey miss, tell me about this spider" he asked as he slowly traversed the darkness.
"Well it is bigger than a Pony and smart.... Oh and hates light" she called out to him causing him to slowly light his lantern.
'Oh come help with a spider, would have been easier if she told me if it was a giant spider then I could of just froze the basement but nooo' he thought before hearing a loud screech and a thud from behind him, making him turn to see a massive black widow spider with two of its smaller legs covering its eyes.
"Well hello, you smell what I am don't you? " he asked as the spider moved backwards away from him as his free hand was surrounded in an icy mist.
"Is everything alright?" Asked the Mare causing the human to turn away just as the spider charged him and pinned him to the floor.
"Everything is..... Fucker..... peachy" he grunted as he slammed his knee into the arachnid's abdomen before punching his icy fist through it's body causing it to tense up and screech in pain before it began to freeze solid. The man took a deep breath before ripping his hand free and shattering the spider, once he was off the ground, he moved to the exit and climbed out to come face to face with the worried mare. "It's dead, " he said as she smiled and hugged him.
"Thank you.... um I don't know your name" she said releasing him.
"Vadik" he said offering his hand which she took and shook it.
"Emerald Eclipse" she replied as he cocked an eyebrow.
"Interesting name" he commented making her smile.
"Not as interesting as you, what are you if I may ask?" She asked.
"I'm a human" he said smiling causing her to gasp.
"Dammit, i own Lyra 30 bits" she grumbled making Vadik cock an eyebrow again.
"Umm who and why?" He asked.
"Oh well she said that Humans exist when they don't.... until now" she said as the man scratched his chin.
"Maybe I should visit this Lyra, where does she live?" Vadik asked the mare.
"Ponyville, it's the town to the south of here" she said as he smiled and gave her the thumbs up.
"Thanks, see ya" he said as he turned and left before she could stop him and made his way to the south side of the town.
Chapter 1 - Migraines and Bugs
The sun had set several hours ago as Vadik was making his way towards the town of Ponyville to find a Lyra, who knows of humans, Vadik knew that she may desire to help him for information on his race as apparently from the mare he helped, Humans don't exist here. The man decided to stop and set up camp just off the road near a small lake as he didn't want to continue walking in an unknown land at night, especially if there are dark forces attempting to take over it.
When the Knight had set up his tent, he proceeded to set up a magical barrier around it to ward off any predators or sentient creatures from his camp before returning to the small fire he had constructed and sat by it before drawing a small gold trimmed, white token from a pocket between his chest plate and leather vest. With the token in hand, he ran his thumb across the golden threaded Phoenix on the silk and sighed before returning the token to the pocket and moved to his pack to remove a small kettle and set it to boil after he filled it with water from his canteen. While the kettle boiled, Vadik drew one of his swords and proceeded to sharpen to Bastard sword while humming a tune softly.
(Celestia's POV)
"Where could he have gone? He is not exactly small" Luna grumbled as she sipped some tea, the mane six, Royal sister, Draconequus' and royal guard had been searching Canterlot for the last four hours for the warrior fruitlessly.
"I don't know Luna, although right now he is the least of our worries" Celestia said as she dug into a large slice of cake.
"But if this Hoo-Man is really our salvation, we should find him before the Dark ones do" Luna replied to her alabaster sister as she placed her mug back on the dining table.
"Well why not check to see if he is sleeping and if so, we can have a small chat this human" The sun goddess advised as Luna nodded. "But let's check when it is later to be sure" She added as she took a sip from her own cup of tea.
(Several Hours later)
Celestia was sitting in her large bed inside her private chambers, sitting in her lap was the friendship report she had received from her newest student in Trottingham, a young colt by the name of Starstrike, whom was identical to his great great great grandfather, which may have been the main reason she chose him to be her student along with his extraordinary ability with magic, but not to the level of Twilight but close when she was still a Unicorn.
As Celestia read the report, her chamber's door opened to reveal Luna holding a tray with a small kettle and two mugs on it.
"Greetings sister" Luna said as she sat next to the older mare after placing the tray on Celestia's desk.
"Good evening Luna" She replied as she levitated a mug of tea over to herself and removed her reading glasses.
"How is young Star?" Luna asked looking at the report.
"Well he is doing much better then Twilight did at his age when making friends but he is still having that problem around mares" Celestia said as Luna giggled softly.
"I see, well I have good news, i have found our knight" she said making Celestia smile before levitating the report, her glasses and mug over to her desk while her sister sat in front of her and held out her hands.
"Excellent now, we shall discover if he is a threat or not" Celestia said taking her sister's hands and closing her eyes as the Princess of night's horn began to glow.
(Dream World)
After feeling a swift tug on her mind, Celestia opened her eyes to see that both her and Luna were sitting in a meadow of sunflowers, the sky above was cloudless as its twin suns hung high above the Alicorns. The entire meadow seemed to give off a sense of Harmony, so the two Alicorns rose from their sitting position to look around, when they did they saw who they were looking for on a small hill not far away with a smaller figure laying next to him so they decided to fly over to him.
Upon reaching him, they discovered that the smaller figure was a young female with short dirty red hair laying her head on the Knight's lap as he gently stroked his hand on her head, the female had a few similarities to the male except for a scar that he had on his lip and her features were more feminine.
"Well isn't this an interesting turn of events, i didn't think I would be dreaming of you" he said towards Luna before turning his chestnut gaze to Celestia. "And I don't remember seeing you but maybe my mind put it together from the stained glass" he said with a shrug.
"Oh no we aren't figments of your imagination, we have actually entered your dreams to converse with you" Celestia explained.
"Ahh dreamwalkers? Been some time since I have had the pleasure" he said with a chuckle.
"You have had others enter your dreams?" Luna asked as Celestia took a seat on the grass in front of him.
"Yes, though most of the times it wasn't a friendly visit" He explained as the two mares nodded and Luna sat next to her sister.
"Well I assure you, this is a friendly intrusion" Luna stated causing the knight to chuckle.
"I'm glad, but anyway My name is Vadik" He introduced himself with a nod of his head.
"It is a pleasure Vadik, i am Celestia, Princess of Equestria" Celestia introduced.
"And I am Luna, also a Princess of Equestria" Luna added with a smile.
"The pleasure is all mine, now down to business then" He said as the young female vanished in a cloud of smoke.
"Before we start, who was that just now?" Celestia asked.
"That was my Daughter, Amelia" he said making both mares frown.
"Well don't worry, if you help us or not, you shall be returned home and to her" Celestia said.
"My homeland is ash and my Amelia is also" he said with a sigh before taking a deep breath. "Lets not get stuck on the passed and sort everything out".
"Okay, so Discord has explained that you are needed to help with the dark ones?" Celestia asked which Vadik nodded. "Okay well we are willing to compensate you if you help us" she added as Vadik nodded slowly.
"And you trust a complete stranger?" Vadik asked as Luna rose and walked over to Vadik.
"If you will allow me, i shall have a look through your memories and determine if you are safe or not" Luna said as Vadik looked at her concerned then at Celestia.
"Alright but I am sorry" Vadik said.
"Why are you sorry?" Luna asked as Vadik rose to his feet.
"You'll see" he said as Luna nodded and placed her hands on his temples before closing her eyes and causing her horn to glow. The princess stood there for several minutes before all of a sudden she broke contact and dropped to her knees, as she did, Vadik crumpled also holding his head in pain from the sudden disconnection but what Celestia was concerned about was that her baby sister was crying audibly.
"Luna? Lulu are you alright?" Celestia asked the crying mare before looking to the human who groaned from the migraine he recently received. "What did you do to her?" She growled.
"How the fuck should I know?" Vadik groaned before Celestia blasted him with magic causing him to hit the ground hard shortly before the dream collapsed and Celestia awoke to find Luna glaring at her with tears welling up.
"You Idiot" Luna said with a sniff.
"What? The same thing happened when you interrogated Nightmare moments before you were corrupted" Celestia defended.
"B-but he wouldn't" she said wiping her eyes.
"Then why were you crying and why was he in pain?" Celestia asked.
"Because of his past.... it's so dark..... I only managed to get a dozen years back before I broke down and i didn't disconnect correctly" Luna explained as Celestia frowned and looked down at her bed. "Well at least I know he won't hurt our ponies without cause..... and I also know where he is going" Luna said climbing off her sister's bed.
"Lulu please, i was worried" Tia stated.
"I know Tia, i should return to night court" Luna said before she left the room.
(The Next morning)
As the light from the rising sun pierced the tree line and hit the sleeping human, he groaned loudly before covering his face with his hand and sat up, he then rubbed his eyes before wincing and holding his head. “Dammit, Fucking bitch gave me a Migraine” Vadik groaned before he began to pack up his camp and put his armour back on his body. “Now let's find this Lyra” he muttered before he destroyed the barrier and returned to road and on route towards Ponyville.
As the Knight walked along the road with the sun rising on the horizon, Vadik noticed a massive Apple orchid coming into view but something was wrong with it, a large orange, bat winged problem. Lying in wait on top of the house was a large Manticore, its intentions were obvious as the front door of the farmhouse opened to reveal a tall red stallion and a slightly shorter mare with a cowboy hat. Without a second thought, Vadik whistled loudly catching not the beast’s attention but also the attention of the ponies.
“Hey you big orange ugly fucker, why is your ass tiny in comparison to the rest of your body?” Vadik yelled out towards the Manticore which bore its fangs.
“Hey!” the orange mare shouted.
“Ahhh did I make you angry? What are you gonna do about it big head?” He shouted as he spread his arms out wide.
“I'm gonna buck you so….. “ The mare was saying until the massive Manticore landed in front of her and roared at the Human.
“Come get some Kitty” Vadik said laughing before he bolted into the orchid with the Manticore in hot pursuit.
“Well ah’ll hand it ta him, he's got guts” Big Mac said to Applejack.
“Big Mac, go get Twilight and the others now” AppleJack said as she ran after Vadik and the Manticore while Mac rolled his eyes.
As AppleJack ran through the orchid, she passed several damaged or frozen trees but she didn't stop running until she saw something that stopped her cold. The warrior was fighting a Changeling on the Lake by Sweet Apple Orchid while it was frozen solid.
(Vadik)
‘okay so I got the Manticore chasing me, Now what?’ Vadik thought as he whipped around and blasted small light blue beam at the pursuing beast but it was deflected by a green barrier causing the beam to pass through several trees, freezing them, until it stopped when It struck a boulder ‘okay so it isn't a Manticore….. unless they can use magic here’.
Vadik was starting to feel out of breath from sprinting and darting between trees and he was having trouble thinking of a combat plan when his fighting area would be restricted. As he turned to look at the creature behind him, he failed to notice the break in the tree line and the large lake until he ended up falling into, causing Vadik to burst from the water soaked and annoyed.
“Hahaha, You are a fool” said a male voice from behind him, making him turn to see the Manticore transform into a chitin covered bug pony in black armour and wielding a katana.
Vadik frowned as the Lake around him began to freeze around him causing the Bug pony step back while Vadik walked forward out of the water. The Human knight didn't respond, save for drawing his bastard sword making his opponent hiss, leading to the Bug attacking with a wide swing that Vadik parried before grappling him, this caused his opponent to go wide eyed before Vadik threw him not the ice hard, cracking the thick ice slightly.
“You are not using your weapon correctly” Vadik said as the Bug hissed again and tried to thrust his blade into him but Vadik side stepped the crude one handed attack and countered by punching him in the gut causing him to hunch over in pain. “Better but you should really use both hands” he said before slamming his knee into the hunched over swordsman, winding him.
“You shall die by my blade” the Shapeshifter growled as he stood up straight and attempted slashed across Vadik’s chest which caused the katana blade to bounce off his plate and the human to kick his opponent in the chest, making him slide back on the ice.
“Well you’re doing a very shit job at it” He informed the insect before striking with a vertical attack, splitting his opponent's armour open. “and just a piece of advice, Katana’s suck when you either don't have the speed or grace to use one or you are dueling someone with a longsword as a Katana isn't designed with a strong spine” Vadik said as he brought a vertical attack down on the Bug’s weapon, snapping the blade before he grabbed the shapeshifter by the neck and lifted the 6 foot 2 insect off the ground. “Now, i have a few questions” Vadik said as the bug spat in his face so he slammed the creature into the frozen lake hard. “let's try that again, shall we?” He asked as his opponent nodded. “Good, first what are you?” Vadik questioned.
“I’m a Changeling of course” he replied.
“Okay, what's your name?” Vadik asked.
“Hornet” the Changeling replied.
“Interesting, now why were you trying to kill those ponies?” Vadik asked.
“To kill the Element of Honesty and break the alliance that the core hives have with Equestria” Hornet explained.
“So you would doom your hive to war?” Vadik asked as Hornet laughed.
“No you idiot, i would have framed one of the Core hives so my Queen’s desire for control could move forward” He laughed.
“That’s quite a plan, but why does she want control?” Vadik asked curious.
“Because my Queen, Queen Chrysalis, was next in line to become the High Queen, but she was denied as she attempted to take over Equestria which the High Queen Thorax formed a Trade and Defense alliance with thousands of years ago” Hornet said.
“Right, so let me guess, this Chrysalis is apart of the Dark ones?” Vadik asked as Hornet nodded. “Well that means she is on my hit list” He added.
“Hit List?” Hornet asked as Vadik released him and placed his boot on his chest.
“Yes, and all those who serve her” The Human explained before plunging his Bastard sword deep into Hornet’s chest causing the Changeling to gurgle as thick green blood oozed from the fatal chest wound. After twisting the blade, Vadik cleaned the sword and sheathed it before making his way to the edge of the lake, which began to rapidly melt back into water.
Across the lake stood a small group of ponies shocked at what they just witness, it was a mix of fear and awe as they watched the knight vanish into the tree line.
“Twilight, i think you should send a letter to Celestia Darling” the white unicorn mare with a long styled purple mane suggested.
“Y-yes good idea Rarity” the Young purple Alicorn said as she teleported the group of mares and one red stallion to her castle.
Chapter 2 - Shops and Cutie Hunters
By the time Vadik arrived at the small town, his head felt like it was about to split which the noise of the residents of Ponyville didn't help as they went about their lives. Few turned to look towards the Human as he walked through, most because he had to gently push passed them to get through. As he managed to reach the centre of the market place, his migraine was nearing unbearable until he heard a wolf whistle, which didn't help so he turned to see another Changeling except this one was in a business suit and instead of a messy oily aqua mane, this one had a short scruff bright red mane.
"Hello there Sir, i have noticed you have a headache" he called out in a overly happy and cheery tone causing Vadik to groan as he walked over to the large stall with a multitude of items on it.
"And you decided to Whistle?" Vadik said as the Changeling face palmed.
"My dearest apologies, but I thought I could help such an unique individual which I have never seen before, and that is saying something" he said as he crouched down and retrieved a large jar of roots.
" Yes I am not from this universe, so what are these roots?" Vadik asked.
"How can you.... never mind, well these are Poison Joke Root, unlike the the flower which causes magical alterations, the roots are a type of painkiller, and they don't have the same magic poison as the flowers" he said as he pulled a small root from the jar and placed in a mortar and postal.
"And how much will this cost?" Vadik asked as the Changeling scratched his chin before he began grinding.
"Hmmm some love will do nicely" the shopkeeper said.
"This place uses Love as currency?" Vadik asked.
"No but Changelings require Love to survive so we trade items for it" he explained as the Human nodded slowly.
"Okay and how do you collect it?" Vadik asked.
"Simple, pass me your wrist" he asked as Vadik gave him his wrist. "Good, now I shall connect this band which will extract the love and convert it into a liquid form." He explained as he attached the band before connecting a small hose. Once it was connected and began to glow, he went back to the Joke Root that he had crushed up and proceeded to brew a small amount in boiling water before returning to Vadik and removing the Band. Once removed he lifted a small bottle filled with a glowing red liquid which the hose was connected to and inspected the liquid. "Hmmmm curious" he said as he opened the lid and dipped his pinkie into the liquid and tasted it. "Well I'll be"
"What?" Vadik asked.
"You produced a concentrated form of Love, Buck it's like three times stronger than a Pony's" he said as he placed the mug of brew in front of Vadik.
"Well lucky me" he said sarcastically as the Changeling bagged the rest of the powder along with grabbing an extra root and a small acorn. "What are you doing?" Vadik asked as he sipped the brew he received.
"Well I am giving you an extra root and a Golden Oak Acorn in a way of asking you to shop here again" he said as Vadik smiled before accepting the items.
"Thanks, my name is Vadik" He said offering his hand as the Changeling took it and shook.
"Razor Wind, but I go by Chappy also as my normal name makes some ponies freak out" he said as the two chuckled.
"Fair enough, well that brew works quite fast" Vadik said rubbing his head before downing the rest of the drink.
"I'm glad " Chappy said.
"Also what does this Acorn do, as you wouldn't just sell worthless squirrel food" Vadik said as he held the golden acorn in his hand.
"Ahh you noticed, well in the Flutterpony township on the other side of the Everfree Forest, they live in Golden Oak trees, before you ask how, the trees are a special kind as they react to whoever plants them and grows rapidly along with it being hollow. From what I have seen, these are capable of forming iron bark hinges, Doors and stairs." He explained as Vadik cocked an eyebrow and looked at the acorn.
"So you just gave me a house?" He asked as Chappy nodded. "Is this so I will keep doing buisness with you?" He asked as the Changeling nodded. "Fair enough.... hey do you know a mare by the name of Lyra?" He asked as Chappy shrugged.
"Nope, but I would try at Sugercube Corner" he said pointing to a gingerbread house down the road.
"Okay well, thanks for the information and see you later" he said packing the Sack of root powder, the root and the acorn into his pack before making his way down the street.
Once he reached the gingerbread house, the door suddenly blew open and smacked him in the face causing him to fall onto his back as a small group of ponies attempted to get out of the building, not looking where they were going and ended tripping over him and falling on him.
"Owwww AppleBloom, why did you push me?" The young white mare said as she sat up, not noticing that she was straddling Vadik.
"It wasn't me, it was Scoots and Pip" the yellow mare said as she looked up to see the white and tan stallion with a white patch over his eye. "Speaking over which, Pip get off ma chest" she said shoving the stallion off of her.
"Owww how did I land on you?" He asked moments before both Applebloom and the white mare were shoved away by Vadik as he stood up. "Ohhhh um hi sir" Pip said smiling nervously at the Seven foot tall armoured being.
"Hello, what is the rush?" He asked as he offered his hand to Pip, who hesitantly reached out only for the man to grab him by the elbow and pull him to his feet.
"Well.... Um Scootaloo can explain" he said pointing at the Orange Pegasus mare with the remnants of a banana smoothie over her face and hoodie.
"Thanks Pip, why do you want to know anyway?" The orange mare said as he helped her up.
"Cause I just got a door slammed in my face and then had several ponies dog pile me" he said as the four ponies chuckled lamely.
"Yea.... well we were gonna go exploring the Everfree to help Pip get his Cutie Mark" The white mare said.
"What's a Cutie Mark? And what is this Everfree?" He asked.
"Um the Everfree is a monster filled forest and a Cutie Mark is a symbol of our special talent" Scootaloo explained.
"Right.... but why enter the Everfree if it is so dangerous?" He asked.
"Cause it holds so many secrets" AppleBloom said.
"Hmmm well how about this, i protect you lot in the Everfree and in return you help me find Lyra?" He asked as the four huddled up and talked. They talked for a few moments before breaking up. "Do we have a deal?" He asked.
"Sure, oh I'm Sweetie Belle" the white mare introduced herself as she shook his hand.
"Nice to meet you Sweetie Belle, my name is Vadik" he said nodding as the other three introduced themselves before they began walking towards the forest.
"Um Vadik, what are you?" Pip asked.
"I am a Human." He said as Scootaloo groaned. "What?" He asked.
"I just lost 30 bits" she groaned.
"Why?" He asked.
"Cause Lyra bet that Humans were real so a number of ponies accepted the bets to get easy money" Scootaloo said.
"But how were you going to ever win?" He asked.
"Well we just had to show her that no Humans would randomly show up?" She said.
"So you were willing to wait until the end of time to see if she was wrong?" He asked as Scootaloo was about to say something but stopped to think, only to groan.
"Damn it" she groaned as they arrived at the Forest's edge.
"Lets go, stick close to me and whatever you do, if trouble comes, Hide" he said as the four young ponies nodded and clung to him. "Too close" he said as they released him but walked within arms length of him.
The group walked for several hours until the ponies began to complain about being hungry and tired, making Vadik groan as they stopped in a small clearing and let them rest while he sat and sharpen one of his swords.
"Um Vadik, why is your sword so big?" Pip asked.
"It's A bastard sword..... pretty much it has a long blade and extra long hilt to allow for comfortable duel wielding" Vadik explained as Pip nodded and sat In front of him.
"How good are you at sword fighting?" He asked.
"Good enough to stay alive" Vadik said.
"C-could you teach me?" He asked causing Vadik to stop sharpening the sword.
"And why do you want to know Pip?" Vadik asked.
"C-cause I want to learn to protect my friends" he said looking over his shoulder at the three mares talking among themselves.
"Well I can do that, but first you need to forge yourself a sword" Vadik said sheathing the large sword.
"Forge my own sword? But... I don't know how" Pip said as he deflated slightly.
"I can teach you young Pip, and before you ask, it is better to forge your own blade as a little of yourself is transmitted into the sword" he said as Pip nodded before Vadik rose. "Alright you lot, we better head back before it gets dark.
The three mares groaned before they followed the stallion and human as they began walking towards Ponyville. As they walked, Scootaloo groaned and decided to jump onto his back pack.
"What are you doing?" He asked.
"I'm tired of walking" she groaned.
"You have wings, fly" he said as she groaned again.
"Too much effort" she groaned as they approached the edge of the forest.
"So where does Lyra live?" Vadik asked as they group began walking on a gravel path towards the town.
"On the other side of Ponyville but you won't be able to see her for a couple days" Sweetie stated.
"And why is that?" He asked.
"Cause she is part of a music group which is playing in Canterlot" Pip informed Vadik.
"And where is Canterlot?" He asked as the ponies pointed to the city that Vadik walked from causing him to look up at the sky. "For Fuck Sake" he shouted out loud.
Chapter 3 - Twilight and friends
Chapter 3 - Twilight and friends
"So Twilight, how has the search for the human come?" Asked Celestia as she sat in a long white and gold gown, she had recently arrived at Twilight's Castle with her sister Luna, who was wearing a Onyx and midnight blue dress, also with them was the Princess of the Crystal Kingdom, in a short pink dress while her Wife was in her Purple and Gold trimmed armour.
"Unfortunately apart from the incident with the Changeling, we hav..... " Twilight was saying before the Guard Princess cocked an eyebrow.
"What incident little sis?" She asked.
"Well there was Changeling Assassin from Chrysalis's Hive after Applejack but the Human ...." Luna interrupted Twilight mid sentence.
"Vadik" Luna said.
"What?" Twilight asked.
"That's his Name.... I learnt it when I entered his memory" She said as Twilight nodded.
"Well Glimmer, Vadik saved AppleJack, Froze the lake by her farm and defeated the assassin" She explained as Glimmer nodded.
"I guess I'll have to thank him when I see him" Celestia stated.
"Among other things" Luna added quietly causing Celestia's ears to flatten but before anypony could say anything a tall violet Dragoness entered the room in a dark green hoodie and tracksuit pants.
"Hey Twi, AppleBloom is here and she has something important to show you" she said as Twilight nodded.
"Thank you Barb" she said as the younger yellow mare entered the room in a red flannel top and short ripped jeans. "Hey AppleBloom, What's up".
"W-well Ma new Friend Vadik is in Need of help" She said shrinking slightly at the sight of of the three other Alicorns.
"Did you say Vadik?" Luna said standing from her seat as AppleBloom nodded. "Show us" she said as all the other mares rose and followed AppleBloom.
"How did you come across him?" Celestia asked.
"U-um well Sweetie, Pip, Scootaloo and I rushed out of Sugercube Corner and we all fell on him, we talked ta him and then he helped us around on questing but then when he discovered that Lyra was in Canterlot.... well you'll see" she said nervously as they turned a corner to see the human gently headbutting a wall repeatedly.
"Come on Vadik, she will be back in a couple of days" Scootaloo said as Vadik simply grunted.
"I Fucking walked for a full day to get here only to discover that this Fucking Lyra is in the fucking place I just walked from" he growled slamming his fist into the Wall, causing his arm to go through the wall, he gave his arm a tug and groaned before headbutting the wall. "And now my arm is stuck" he growled.
"Don't Worry, AppleBloom will be back with Twilight" Sweetie said.
"Um and Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadance and Princess Glimmer Shield" Pip said.
"And why would those four come?" Scootaloo asked as Pip pointed behind Scoots making her turn to see the princesses. "Oh" she said just as Vadik jerked backwards, ripping his arm free with a chunk of the wall around it.
"Close enough". He muttered before grabbing the chunk of wall and slowly removed his arm before noticing the new arrivals and the familiar white and blue Alicorns. "Well if it isn't little miss blaster bitch" he said as Celestia frowned at him. "Hey you invaded my dreams and blasted me".
"I had good reason" She said as Vadik cocked his eyebrow.
"Um Vadik" Sweetie said but He ignored her.
"And what was this reason Fat ass" he said stepping forward.
"Who are you calling fat ass!" Celestia shouted, her mask nonexistent at that moment.
"Vadik" Scootaloo said but was also ignored.
"Well that ass of yours could cause an eclipse" he stated.
"So you have been looking at my Flank then Pervert!" She shouted making him laugh.
"Like I had a choice" he replied.
"Vadik!" Shouted the three younger mares.
"What?" He asked looking at them.
"Your arm" Sweetie said as Vadik look at his undamaged left arm. "The other arm" she added making him look to see the skin where the wall sat was torn and large amounts of blood was pouring from the wound.
"Oh Shit, When did that happen?" He asked.
"When you twisted the chunk of wall off your arm" Twilight said as Vadik nodded.
"Well that was stupid of me" he chuckled as most of the ponies look slightly green or pale.
"Maybe we should get you to a hospital" the pink Alicorn mare known as Cadence said.
"Nah, I've had worse" he said as his left hand began to glow a soft golden colour before he held it an inch above the wound. "Its nothing I can't heal on my own." He informed them.
"Well then I believe some apologies are needed before we continue" Luna said as Vadik removed his hand to reveal a jagged scar.
"Fine.... I am sorry Alabaster" Vadik said as Luna shook her head.
"Not you..... you" she said pointing at Celestia.
"But Luna, you can't be serious" The white alicorn said.
"I am" Luna replied as Celestia sighed.
"Fine.... my apologies for attacking you Vadik" She said as he shrugged.
"Sure, whatever, give me access to information" he said crossing his arms.
"Deal" Celestia said as Vadik nodded.
"Good, now it's late so I shall go set up camp" he said turning to leave but was stopped by Twilight.
"Wait, i have some rooms in my castle that unoccupied" She said.
"And why would you allow me into your home?" He asked curious.
"You saved my best friend.... it's the least I could do" she said as he thought for a moment.
"I guess it is better than sleeping outside" he stated.
"So that's a yes?" She asked as he nodded. "Great" she said before turning to the Dragoness. "Barb, can you take him back to the castle please" she asked as Barb nodded and gestured for the human to follow him, which he did, only to stop next to Luna.
"Stay out of head" he stated causing Luna to cock an eyebrow.
"And if you have a nightmare?" She asked.
"I don't care, just stay out" he said to her before he continued following the violet Dragoness. After several minutes, the two reached the giant crystal palace causing Vadik to look up at it. "How did I miss that?" He asked before looking back down to see Barb holding the door open for him, so with a nod, he entered only to be grabbed and forced against the Crystal wall by the Dragoness.
"Why do you smell like dragons?" She growled causing Vadik to laugh.
"Is this what this is about?" He asked laughing.
"Stop laughing and tell me" she demanded as he gently gripped her hands and removed them from his armour.
"Well I would have told you of you asked nicely" he said as he smiled.
"Fine..... please tell me" she said as she yanked her hands free of his grip.
"Well give me your best theory and I'll tell you if you are right" he said as she frowned.
"You part Dragon?" She asked as he shook his head. "Have a pet Dragon?" She questioned as he shook his head again." Um.... you recently had sex with one?" She asked as once again he shook his head again. "Then what?" She asked.
"Well my clan lived in a monster infested mountain range where we had to go from prey to Predator so, my ancestors used an ancient rituals to bind seven different dragons to our clan thus giving us increased strength, speed, size and made us monsters of men" he said as she looked at him confused.
"Why not just move?" She asked.
"Well for one, it was sort of my ancestors pride, two it gets you nowhere to run away from difficulty" he said to her.
"Okay so wait, you are part Dragon then?" She asked.
"No... not genetically, the essence of the Ancient Dragons or also known as Primal Dragons is through the consumption of a special potion, a potion mixed with their blood and a few other ingredients, this potion is given to clan members when they are roughly ten year of age so the blood can properly infuse with them" he said as she nodded. "It also helps with the use of magic as each of the Primal Dragons used a different element, the Black dragon used acid, the Red dragon used fire, the Gold dragos used lightening and the White dragon used Ice" he said as he stretched which resulted in several loud pops and cracks. "I can go on about this for a couple hours but I am quite tired" he said.
"Okay well, let me show you to your room" she said causing him to nod before the two headed off down a hallway until Barb stopped outside a room. "Here is your room" she said handing him a small key before she left, he watched her for a moment before he unlocked the door and entered the room before relocking the entrance. Once it was locked, he dumped his equipment on the floor and stripped his armour from his body before laying down on the bed and slowly drifted off to sleep.
(Following late Morning)
Vadik was awoken by a loud rapid knocking, causing him to groan and sit up only for him to feel like his upper right arm was on fire along with his head. "Damn... fucking.... Yea? Who is it?" He asked.
"It's me" said a happy voice causing his expression to change to a unamused look.
"Pinkie he hasn't met you yet Darling" said another, more elegant voice.
"Why don't we just enter the room?" Asked a brash voice.
"Cause one, he may be naked, two it’s impolite and three, the door is locked" said the second voice again as Vadik shook his head before sliding off the bed and began attacking his armour while listening to the voices bicker.
"Hey look Twilight has finally finished setting up" said another voice which was similar to AppleBloom's.
"Twi, he locked the door" stated the brash voice "do you have an extra key?" She asked.
"Yes I do but..." she was saying ask Vadik grabbed the rest of his stuff and opened the door. "Oh Morning Vadik" the violet mare said happily as Vadik looked her up and down and noticed she was in star covered purple pajamas which held snugly against her c cup bust making him cock an eyebrow. He then looked to the other mares, one had a rainbow mane and a pair of wings, she was only six foot 4 and was in a white tank top and short black shorts, her outfit left little to the imagination. To his immediate left was the six foot eight orange mare from the morning before in a yellow flannel and jeans that covered her curvy form, on her head was the same stenson that Vadik saw the day before. On Vadik's opposite flank was a white six foot six unicorn mare in a short silver gown, her mane was long, purple and curly.
"Good morning, um I swear I heard another" he said looking around.
"Yes that was Pinkie Pie darling but she ran off after seeing you.... probably to organise one of her parties" explained the white mare as Vadik nodded slowly.
"Right" he said.
"My name is Rarity by the way" she said offering her hand as he took it before lowering himself as he kissed her hand making her blush. "Oh" she said as he straightened back up.
"It's a pleasure to meet you" he said before turning his gaze to the cyan pegasus mare with the rainbow mane.
"My name is Rainbow Dash, Fastest flyer in Equestria and I have my eye on you" she said crossing her arms and giving him a death glare causing him to chuckle.
"Adorable" he chuckled as he turned his gaze to the Orange mare "Good to see you aren't dead Element of honesty" he said with a smirk.
"Um... thanks ah think... by the way it's Applejack" she said as he turned to face the Purple winged unicorn.
"So what now.... Twilight was it?" He asked as she nodded.
"Um I wanted to ask you some questions about your world and you" she asked as Vadik shrugged.
"As long as I can get access to information, I'm game.” He said.
As the small group walked down the crystal hall, the mares were chatting amongst themselves almost oblivious to the man, the sun pierced the windows of the castle, which depicted the colourful ponies blasting a big red guy away with a rainbow which caused Vadik to chuckle and gain the attention of the purple pegacorn.
"What's funny Vadik?" Twilight asked.
"Well this is, " he said pointing at the window.
"Why the buck is that funny to you?" The Rainbow one shouted.
"Well it obviously can't be real from what the plaque says below it" he said causing the mares to cross their arms save for the white elegant one.
"It's true darling, we defeated Tirak with the Rainbow power of friendship" she said proudly.
"You're serious?" He asked as the group nodded and he groaned. "Shit, you lot really do need my help" he said as he continued to walk with the ponies.
"It worked, have you ever defeated somepony as big as a castle before?" The Rainbow one asked again him making chuckle.
"No.... bigger" he said simply.
"Well we are here Vadik, please take a seat on the couch and we can get started" Twilight informed him as he nodded before walking over and sitting down on the sofa moments before a soft yellow six foot four Pegasus mare with a pink mane entered the room while being pushed by a pink on pink six foot five pony. "Ahh Pinkie, you have brought Fluttershy" Twilight said moments before the pink one zoomed up into Vadik's face.
"HiI'mPinkiePieNiceToMeetYouWowYou'reBiggerThenWhatTwilightSaidButAnywayDoYouLikePartiesAndIfSoWhatFlav....." the pink one was saying extremely fast before she was muffled by a orange hand.
"Sorry bout that Sugercube, she can get ah little over excited with new ponies" the orange country mare stated as she dragged the pink one away, who's arms were flailing madly.
"Now Vadik, let's get down to business, to make this less 'boring' we will each ask you a question and could you please answer then?" The purple one said.
"Of course Pajama Girl" he said as Twilight looked down at herself and squeaked before teleporting away only to reappeared a few minutes lasted in a white dress top and a skirt. "Better"
"O-okay well can we get your full name please?" Twilight asked.
"No" he said causing the girls to groan.
"Why not?" The pink one asked.
"Because only people who are close may know, now...." Vadik was saying moments before the Pink one was suddenly wrapped around the side of his head with her bust covering his sight. "Not what I meant by close" he chuckled as she detached herself and sat next to him. "Next question" he said.
"Are all Humans as Big as you?" A quiet voice asked causing him to look at the butter Pegasus.
"No they are usually six foot on average" he answered.
"And why are you so big?" The Rainbow one asked.
"Because of my clan and where I lived" Vadik said.
"Can you tell us more then that?" Twilight asked.
"No" he replied making her groan.
"Why are you wearing armour darling?" Rarity asked.
"Simple, i don't trust any of you not to put a knife in my back" he said making them all gasp.
"We would never do such a thing Darling" Rarity said.
"You see, i have heard that before... many times" he said as he rolled his shoulder making it crack loudly and making the mares flinch.
"Let's change subject, how old are you?" Twilight asked.
"29" he answered.
"What types of food do you eat" Fluttershy squeaked.
"Meat, grain, wheat, fruit, vegetables, dairy" he said.
"So you're an omnivore" she said less quiet this time.
"Yes, and yourself?" He asked.
"Herbivores... save for dairy and fish" Twilight stated as Vadik nodded.
"Okay so is that everything?" He asked.
"Are you going to tell us about your people or family?" Twilight asked.
"Nope" he said.
"Then we are done, um can somepony show Vadik around town while I set up the study for him" Twilight asked.
"Well how about Rarity, Applejack and myself show him around" Rainbow Dash said getting nods of approval from the other two mares.
"Alright oh and Vadik, Princess Celestia wanted you to have this" Twilight said tossing him a large bag of bits. "So you wouldn't have to resort to stealing.... that's if you steal anyway" She said deflating slightly but perked up when the man laughed.
"It is alright Twilight, 'Tis best to be cautious of new faces' was what my father always said" he said rising causing Fluttershy to squeak.
"Wow wee you're tall" Pinkie said before gasping suddenly and vanishing in a cloud of smoke.
"Interesting, so let us go exploring" He said walking towards to door as the three mares followed him close.
"So what do you think Twilight? " a female voice asked from the doorway on the opposite side of the room causing the two mares to jump.
"P-Princess Luna... don't do that" Twilight grumbled as the darker and taller mare giggled before walking over to the two mares.
"Please….. Luna" She said as Twilight nodded. "Now tell me your opinion" Luna asked.
"Well to start with, he is incredibly intimidating and Strong, not to mention the magic I sensed inside of him was overpowering to say the least, but the real problem is that he refuses to tell us anything about him" Twilight sighed.
"In time he will, i may have only been able to see a third of his life but I learnt something important" Luna said scratching her chin.
"What's that Luna?" Twilight asked.
"I would have nightmares if I knew he was after me" She said with a chuckle.
"What?" Twilight asked go In slightly pale.
"He was a good choice by Discord and Eris" She said.
(Rainbow Dash)
As the group of four walked through the marketplace, Applejack and Rarity were chatting about something involving the upcoming gala, while Vadik seemed to glance at each stall without stopping as if he was looking for something, while he did so, Rainbow was glaring at him as she didn't trust him at all, he was the first pony to ever laugh at her intimidation which has even made a Minotaur nervous. "Hey What are you looking for?" She asked him gaining his attention.
"Hmm? Oh nothing, just looking at the stalls" he said with a soft smile before turning his gaze back to the crowded market, usually AppleJack would be at her stall but it was the weekend which meant that the exotic market had been set up instead of the regular weekday market.
"Excuse me Vadik" Rarity said making him stop and look at her.
"Yes?" He asked.
"Well I have been wondering, do you have any clothes save for what you are wearing?" She asked politely.
"A few shirts, pants and undergarments" he said with a shrug.
"No no, that won't do, follow me" she said grabbing his and by the look on his face, he wasn't expecting how strong the designer was as she pulled him through the crowd towards her boutique.
"Ms, ms" he was trying to say but she didn't listen as her horn lite up causing her door to open before the group entered.
"Now, on the pedestal and strip to your underwear" she ordered making him cock an eyebrow.
"Your joking?" He asked as he looked at her stern expression before sighing. "Fine, just don't go through my Shit" he said placing his large rucksack on before he removed his boots, weapons and armour, placing them on back. Once they were off, he undid the black leather chest piece along with his leather arm braces but as his chest was revealed, the three mares stared in shock at the three parallel two inch thick scars running from his left shoulder to his adjacent hip, surrounding the scars were dozens of smaller scars and burns alps over his heart was a Black star tattoo.
"Holy Buck" Rainbow Dash said as the other two mares' jaws hung open in shock.
"Hey Blue, what's up with your wings?" He asked snapping the mares from their daze and looking at Rainbow Dash's fully extended wings.
"Well Darling, do you see something you like?" Rarity asked giggling while Rainbow Dash was trying to unlock her wings.
"What? Buck no... it's just warmer in here then outside" she said finally getting her wings to go down.
"Sure Sugercube" AppleJack said laughing.
"So want to get this over with?" Vadik said as he stood their in boxers.
"Of course darling" Rarity said as her glasses, notepad and measuring tapes floated over to her and she began measuring the man. After a few minutes Rarity smiled before signalling him to rotate to show his back and a massive Black Dragon tattoo.
"Wow" Dash and AppleJack stated softly making him chuckle.
"Darling I hate to ask, but what gave you those three scars?" Rarity asked.
"A creature known as a hook drake, its six foot long winged reptile with needle sharp teeth filled with venom, on its tail are three three nasty hook like claws used for clinging to rocks and rending flesh.... I found out the hard way that it uses it in combat" he said chuckling.
"Interesting, well I'm all set" She said hopping down as Vadik got dressed fully. "Now follow me to the back room and I'll let you pick out some designs." She said leading him away, as the two exited the room, Applejack and Rainbow both sat on Rarity's couch and sighed.
"So what do ya think of him?" AppleJack asked.
"I don't trust him," Dash so ad with a huff.
"Why? Cause he ain't scared of ya, cause he is armed, Cause he is mysterious, cause he is built like Big Mac or that ya still not trusting of Stallions after what happened with you and Soarin, hmmm?" AppleJack asked.
"Hey! Don't bring that up AJ" Rainbow Dash said frowning slightly.
"But ya can't let ah single bad Apple ruin the bunch Dashie" AJ Stated.
"I don't know AJ, we'll see how I feel when I know that he isn't going to hurt us" Rainbow Dash said with a sigh.
Chapter 5 - Mistrust and Mistakes
"Why the hell are all of these designs so... so fancy?" Vadik groaned as Rarity showed him different designs.
"Because Darling, i want you stand out" She said smiling.
"I already do, I'm the only human, I'm taller than most and I'm nearly hairless save for my beard" he stated.
"Fine.... I'll just make you some normal clothes, but you have to let me make you a suit" she said crossing her arms, causing him to sigh.
"Fine" he said before exiting the room and walked over to the couch, which both Rainbow Dash and AppleJack were sitting on.
"How did it go in there Vadik?" AppleJack asked the man as he removed his chest plate and Leather chest piece.
"The designs were too fancy for my tastes" he said rummaging around in his bag before grabbing a thin, grey long sleeve top.
"Yea that is true but the dresses she makes are nice " AppleJack said as the two mares watched the human pull on his shirt. "Oh and Thank ya for saving me" She said causing him to shrug.
"Don't mention it" he muttered before pulling both chest pieces back onto his body. "Mind if we head back to the princess's place?" He asked the pair as he pulled his bag and weapons back on.
"Um sure"AppleJack said standing up before Rainbow Dash quickly darted off to the back room, only to return a few moments later.
"Okay so let's go" he said heading to the door as AppleJack glared at Rainbow Dash.
"What?" She asked her orange friend as they exited the building and followed the man back towards the tree like crystal palace.
"AppleJack, sorry about freezing some of your trees" Vadik said.
"It's fine, in all honesty ya got some Zap Apple trees and managed ta bring them closer to bein' harvested" She explained as Vadik nodded.
"Oh cool" he muttered with a slight chuckle as they arrived at the castle. So what do you do for a living Blue?" He asked the Pegasus mare as they entered the castle and moved towards the study. Only for Vadik to have a bright orange unicorn stallion in a dress shirt, shorts and tie along with a pink mare in a jumper and skirt hit him resulting in both ponies on top of Vadik after they knocked him down. "Really?" He asked pushing himself up, causing both ponies to fall off him. "Twice in two days" he said shaking his head before helping both ponies up.
"S-sorry about that" the stallion said looking at the tall armoured human before he noticed something. "Ummm my glasses are..." he said as his horn lit before a large pair of glasses unhooked themselves from Vadik's chest plate and returned to the stallion's face. "Thank your Starlight" he said turning and smiling at the pink mare.
"No worries.... wait where did he go?" The mare asked as the four ponies looked back to where Vadik was.
"I knew he was up to no good" Rainbow Dash shouted before taking off.
"Dash come back 'ere" AppleJack said before the other ponies went after her, once all the ponies had exited the room, Vadik reappeared after removing a Onyx bracelet, which he returned it to his bag before entering the study to find a large desk with a multitude of books on Equestrian culture causing the man to frown.
"This won't be helpful" he muttered, moving the books onto the ground next to the desk before returning to the massive library to retrieve more appropriate books. After an hour of searching, Vadik returned to the study with a dozen books, which he placed on one side of the desk, placing his bag and weapons by it before sitting and retrieving a small pair of reading glasses as he grabbed the first book titled 'Pony Anatomy' and begun reading moments before he heard the coo of an owl causing him to look over and see a large owl sitting on his rucksack watching him. "Hello" he said reaching out and scratching its belly gently causing it to coo in delight before flying off.
(5 hours later)
"How can he be so hard to find" Rainbow Dash growled as she returned with the elements of Harmony, several guards, the Royal sisters, Barb and the Two unicorns that crashed into Vadik known as Starlight Glimmer and Sunburst.
"Well maybe he wouldn't have run off If ya hadn't been on his case" AppleJack said. "Buck, ya even checked on Rarity after he came out of the room with her" AppleJack said as she sat on the couch in the library.
"Um girls?" The soft voice of Fluttershy tried to say but was drowned out by Rainbow Dash.
"How can I trust him when you saw what he did to the lake and that Changeling, he played with it, not fought, played" the cyan Pegasus stated.
"Dash" Fluttershy said.
"Well from what AppleBloom said to ma late-night, he isn't even worried about the Everfree" AppleJack said "wait... that doesn't help ma case" she said.
"Girls?" Fluttershy asked again only to frown when she was ignored again.
"Well I don't trust him because ......" Dash was saying before she was interrupted.
"EVERYPONY!!!" Fluttershy shouted only to gain everyone's attention causing her to blush brightly.
"Is everything alright Darling?" Rarity asked.
"I just wanted to say that he is over there?" She said quietly, pointing at the Study, which had its door wide open to reveal the man reading with owlicious sitting on his shoulder with his head backwards looking at them creepily.
"Question, did any of you check the study?" Celestia asked.
"Um no, why would a crazy person hid in there?" Dash asked.
"Well maybe because that's where he wanted to go" Twilight said causing Rainbow to groan before the mares and Dragoness walked over to the room only to be cooed at by the large Owl gaining the attention of Vadik making him turn around. "So how is everything going with your reading?" Twilight asked.
"It is going well after I returned the books you left" he said.
"Wow you finished all of them quickly" Twilight said with a slight twinkle in her eye.
"No, they were useless to my mission" he said causing the princess of friendship to frown before perking up. "Then what are you reading?" She asked.
" 'Pony Anatomy', 'Dragon Anatomy', 'Changeling Anatomy', 'Big book of Equestrian monsters', 'Equestrian History', 'Known Criminals of Equis', 'Myths of Equestria', 'Secrets of the Everfree', ' Equestrian Law', 'Elements of Harmony- What are they', and 'The Book of Prophecies' " he said.
"Um why does any of that help your mission?" Twilight asked.
"My mission is to protect the crown and stop these, 'Dark ones' and I can't do that if I don't know your basic anatomy and who they are, along with what monsters are in Equestria so I know what to do against them if ever the need raises." He said before standing and stretching resulting in a few pops and cracks in his back.
"I see, that is quite smart" Celestia said smiling.
"Oh Vadik, i need you to come to Sugercube Corner.... Now!" Pinkie said moments before she grabbed his hand and dragged him out of the room, he was soon followed by everyone say for Rainbow Dash, who quickly moved to his pack. Once she opened it, she removed a small bag filled with several roots, which she placed aside before grabbing a small tin which she sniffed only to quickly pull it away from her muzzle and cough.
"Buck" she coughed before placing the tin next to the roots and continued searching his bag. After a little time of removing several cloths, sacks of coin, Throwing knives, potions, several books, trinkets she came across a small photo of him and a small girl by a tree making Rainbow Dash unwillingly smile before checking the other side to see some writing.
'Amelia Jorund, Date of Birth 19,080, Date of Death 19,087' she read before looking at the picture again and suddenly frowning.
"What the Buck am I doing?" She asked herself before returning all items to the man's bag and closing it before attempting to pick up the bag, only to lift it a few inches off the floor and drop it. "Buck, why is it so heavy?" She groaned before letting go. "Buck it" she muttered before taking off after the group.
(Vadik)
After being dragged for several minutes by the earth pony mare, Vadik got sick of it and abruptly yanked his arm back, causing the pink mare to be pulled towards him, moments before he lifted her up onto his shoulder. "No more dragging" he said before turning to face the rest of the ponies and pointed at the Alabaster Alicorn. "You, do you have the bounties on those Dark ones?" He asked as Pinkie giggled like a twit on his shoulder.
"Bounties? Why would there be bounties?" She asked making him groan.
"Fine, give me the brief run down on the Dark ones" he asked.
"Um well, there is Queen Chrysalis, she is the Queen of the Changeling Hive in the Badlands, There is King Sombra, the Tyrant King that used to rule the Crystal Kingdom, Lord Tirak, a magic eating Centur whose whereabouts are unknown, Trixie a traveling magician who stole the Alicorn Amulet for a second time, King Solaris, the burning Tyrant who recently escaped from being trapped on the sun, The Nightmare, a demon that has corrupted many to become evil but most have been saved" Celestia said as Vadik nodded before leveling out his free arm moments before six black smoky ravens materialised on his arm.
"Find them" he ordered the bird before they took off and flew off into the night.
"Okay, what were they?" Twilight asked.
"Familiars" he said before he continued walking with the bubblegum mare over his shoulder.
"Wait but what are they doing?" Twilight asked.
"Hunting down my queries" he answered as suddenly the pink mare hopped off his shoulder and darted off.
"Right well anyway...." Celestia tried to say before a loud scream was heard, resulting in the group running to see what was wrong.
Upon arriving, they discovered a tall black robed figure holding a stallion by the throat as black energy entered him, several mares and stallions were running away or on the ground shocked at the sight. "What is that?" Vadik asked.
"T-the Nightmare" Luna said, her voice full of fear and uneasy as she swiftly teleported away.
"Luna!" Celestia called out as Vadik reached for his weapons only to find he forgot them.
"Shit" he growled before taking a sword from one of the Guards next to him and charged at the demon, only to have the corrupted stallion thrown at him, knocking Vadik down as the Nightmare slithered across the ground towards the man.
"Vadik!" The mares shouted, the Mane 6 began to charge up the Elements of Harmony but they were missing both Pinkie and Rainbow Dash as the Nightmare was already upon Vadik but as it went to grab Vadik, a spear of ice pierced it's chest causing it to scream out in pain as it froze solid and shattered.
"Well damn" the man groaned as he climbed to his feet as the group ran over to him.
"Are you okay?" Fluttershy asked as Vadik handed the sword he had back to guard he took it off.
"I'm fine" he said smiling before suddenly frowning and turning his gaze to Canterlot in the distance.
"Whats wrong?" Starlight asked.
"Where is Luna?" Vadik asked.
"Back in her room in Canterlot most likely, Why?" Celestia asked.
"This was a distraction" he said.
"How do you know that?" Twilight asked.
"Because my Familiar just found the real Nightmare...." he said before raising his hand and pointing at Canterlot. "There".
Chapter 7 - A First for Everything
“I can't believe that bitch, what did she honestly expect from a fucking merc” Vadik growled as he entered the crystal castle of Twilight Sparkle and made his way to the room he was staying in, once he arrived at the room he deactivated his Black star and coughed violently before wiping the blood from his face and entering the room to find Trixie still unconscious so he picked her up gently and carried her out. “Let's get you somewhere safe” He muttered as he carried her outside just as Discord appeared in front of the man.
“Now what are you up to Vadik?” He said crossing his arms.
“Moving out, and this one is with me due to the fact that she is no longer controlled so I am getting her somewhere safe so the can't get her” Vadik explained as the mare in question groaned and nuzzled Vadik’s chest.
“Would you like a hand moving?” Discord asked.
“Why is the Lord of Chaos so helpful?” Vadik asked as Eris popped in existences.
“Because you are naturally both chaotic and Harmonious” She said before popping out existence.
“Alright, Sure but I don't want to be near Canterlot but near towns I can help” Vadik asked as Discord sat on an invisible chair and typed out Vadik’s requests on a typewriter.
“Anything else?” Discord asked as he tilted his head down as if he was looking over glasses.
“Somewhere where I can get Metal Ore easily” Vadik added as Discord clicked his fingers.
“I have the perfect place for you then” Discord said before teleporting the trio.
(Everfree Forest)
“What do you think?” Discord asked as he was suddenly wearing a business suit. The group had appeared within the Everfree, against a cliff face which had a massive cave with the bones of a Dragon laying in it, by the cave was a large River.
“I like it, Um do you have my bag as I have a Golden Oak Acorn in there” Vadik asked as he laid Trixie gently onto the grass as Discord opened his hand to reveal the acorn as Vadik’s gear appeared next to Trixie.
“While you that I shall get somepony who would love to decorate your home” Discord stated before teleporting away.
“Um okay then” Vadik said before entering the cave and moving to the far back which had a large amount of space above him so he placed the acorn into the dirt before placing his hand flat over it and focused his magic. As he did he felt the ground begin to rumble so Vadik ran out of the cave just as a massive burst from the ground and molded to fit its area in the cave, Vadik could see it form a strange balcony of sorts, windows, doors and familiar large white flowers across its leaves and around the ground near it. “Well damn” Vadik chuckled as he approached the tree and placed his hand on the door, which formed a Black door handle. “This is cool” He chuckled as he opened the door with a bit of force as it was stuck and looked around the large two story building.
“Vadik” a voice said from behind him causing the man to turn to see one of Alicorns he defeated earlier still in her blackened armour, before the mare could utter a second word she soon discovered herself pinned to the floor with Vadik’s boot on her chest holding her down. “Be calm Human, we didn't come to start trouble, we can for… for your assistance” She said as Vadik glared at her. “If we wanted trouble, you wouldn't be holding us down and we wouldn't have announced our self” She said as Vadik removed his boot and offered his hand which the mare took before she was pulled to her feet.
“What do you want?” Vadik asked crossing his arms as he watched the dark Alicorn shift from the fanged black Mare and into Luna “Wait what?” Vadik asked taking a step back.
“Right you didn't know about… all of that, anyway I… we need your help, Nightmare Moon and i” She said.
“With?” Vadik asked.
“We want to be free of The Nightmare’s control and live independently of each other and before you say that it can't be done we know of a way so please fin….” Luna began to beg before Vadik interrupted her.
“Sure” he said with a shrug.
“Wait that easy?” Luna asked confused.
“Yea just tell me what you need” He said as Luna looked at him flabbergasted for a second or two before shaking her head.
“Um here is a list” She said handing him a small scroll just as Discord appeared just outside the tree house with two very unamused white unicorns.
“Okay so you work with them on getting this place furnished and I shall work on this list” He said walking up to Discord. “Okay so basics I need are, a forge, ore smelter, kitchen with food, and also a map of everything within thirty miles of this place oh and I need a barrier set up so nothing unwanted comes to pay me a visit” He said as Discord nodded. “Oh and Luna is paying for everything” He said before walking to the mouth of the Cave.
“Wait what?” Luna asked in shock as Vadik left the cave and grabbed his gear.
“Vadik here” Discord said causing the man to turn as the Mismatched creature tossed him a map. “This will show you where you are on it at all times and will lead you to what you desire” Discord said as Vadik nodded before heading out into the Everfree.
(One week later)
After a long and tiring week of hunting down the materials Luna needed, Vadik emerged from the tree line of the Everfree into the clearing where he set up his home, over his form was a heavy orange coat which he crafted after dealing with a very territorial and pissed off Manticore. The man stretched as he approached the cave only to pass through a strange field where everything felt cold for a second. “I guess that was Discord’s barrier?” He asked himself as he continued walking into the cave until reaching the front door where he heard faint hushes so he placed his right hand on the hilt of his bastard sword and proceeded inside to discover it was pitch black moments before a light erupted from nowhere and blinded the man as several dozen ponies popped out of hiding and screamed Surprise. “Fucking really?” He asked as he rubbed his eyes in annoyance before feeling something heavy latch onto his breast plate, when his vision returned to him he discovered the Pink one smiling idiotically at him.
“HeyVaddieHowAreYouItsBeenLikeForeverSinceISawYouLastAndINeverGotToThrowYouAPartyWhichMakesMeSadCauseYouWereProbablySo… mmph” Pinkie was saying in a single breath before she was muffled by several different mares at the same time before being unhooked from the man’s armour and dragged off.
“Sorry Vadik, she gets over excited… easily” Twilight said as she returned to the man after helping drag off the Pink terror.
“Right well you lot do whatever parties do and I shall sit for now” He said.
“Wait are you implying that you have never had a party?” Twilight asked.
“I'm a cold hearted Mercenary, we don't get parties” He said before side stepping as a Pink blur zoomed passed him and tackled Rainbow Dash whom was standing next to him. “But you lot enjoy and after I have relaxed a bit and figure out how to… work parties I shall join” He promised.
“Pinkie Promise?” Pinkie asked as Rainbow shoved the earth pony off of her.
“Sure” Vadik said balling his fingers save for his pinkie into a fist.
“What are you doing?” Rarity asked.
“This is what a pinkie promise is, i at least know that.” He said as the was a short awkward silence. “Just come grab me in twenty minutes” he said stepping passed the elements and discovered a large empty couch as the music came on and the Party came alive. The man gently placed his rucksack by the couch and sat on it before sighing loudly.
“Vadik, do you have a moment?” a familiar voice asked causing Vadik to groan as he looked upon Celestia as she sat down on the couch next to him.
“What? Come to tell me how I should do my job again or lecture me?” he asked in a slightly venomous tone causing the mare to flinch slightly.
“No I have come to apologise and hopefully make peace between us and maybe become friends, look you don't have to accept but I really want to make a friendship work after what I heard from Luna about what you are doing for her and yes I am so sorry for not mentioning my student earlier but I only discovered his involvement when you unmasked him.” Celestia said before taking a deep breath. “So will you accept my apology and maybe allow us to become friends?” She asked as Vadik thought for a moment.
“You blasted me in the face before throwing me into a brick wall, so it will take some time for me to forgive you for that and I guess we can be friends” he said shrugging moments before she hugged him tightly.
“Thank you, you won't regret this at all” She said before releasing the man and smiling just as he casually gave her a thumbs up before Pinkie suddenly appeared out of nowhere and grabbed him by the hand and pulled him to where the DJ stood.
“Vadik this is Vinyl Scratch” Pinkie Sao introducing the man to the alabaster Unicorn mare with an electric blue mane and in a light blue vest and torn jeans along with a pair of purple shades over her eyes and a set of headphones around her neck.
“Call me Vinyl” She said offering her hand which Vadik took and shook.
“Pleasure to meet you Vinyl” He said as Vinyl handed him a Microphone.
“Pinkie wanted a questionnaire” Vinyl said as Vadik groaned.
“Stop being a big moppie pants Vaddie, you can refuse any you like” Pinkie said as Vadik cocked his eye at the nickname.
“Alright but don't call me again” He said as he moved to where Pinkie showed him as Vinyl stopped the music and Pinkie took the microphone.
“Hey Everypony, so our guest of honor will be taking questions because he is super awesome” She said while bouncing before handing him back the microphone and grabbed a new one from Vinyl “Okay who's first?” Pinkie asked as several dozen hands went up. “Wow wee okay… um Thunderlane” she said pointing at a black Pegasus stallion in a Blue top and jeans.
“Why don't you have any fur save for your face?” He asked curious.
“Well I am a human and we prefer to be clean shaven, well mostly anyway” he said.
“Ummm Derpy” Pinkie said pointing to a grey Pegasus mare where a lemon coloured dress.
“Do you like muffins?” She asked causing several laughs from the ponies and the mare to frown slightly.
“To be perfectly honest, i haven't had one for a few years now” He said to the mare.
“Why not?” Pinkie asked curious.
“Well I stopped eating alot of things after my daughter died” He said moments before he realized what he said and covered his mouth but it was too late as the crowd looked at him in shock and sadness.
“Okay that's enough Questions” Vinyl said taking both microphones away from the human and pink pony before turning the music back on, which the ponies soon returned to their previous activities while Vadik moved to the stairs and retreated upstairs.
Once upstairs, he moved into a room and locked it closed before leaning his back against the door and covering his face. His attention was quickly gained as the sound of someone clearing their throat was heard so Vadik looked up to see Luna standing in the middle of the room half naked in large navy blue bra and panties and a large red hue on her muzzle.
“I'm so sorry, um which room is mine?” Vadik asked.
“Last on the right” Luna said as Vadik nodded before hastily leaving the room. “I guess that will teach me for not locking the door” She said as she shook her head.
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Chapter 8 - All you Soarin lovers are gonna hate me
“What are you doing Vadik?” He asked himself as he stood facing a large mirror with his hands either side of it. “You slipped up, don't get comfortable around these people, they aren't friends, they are just a source of pay” Vadik said to his reflection but he didn't believe him self so he growled and repeated only to gain the same result that he had received for the last five minutes. “Fuck sake” He said slamming his fist into the mirror, shattering it as a knock was heard from his bedroom door.
“Vaddie?” Pinkie Pie’s voice asked. “Are you okay? I… I just wanted to apologize for r-ruining your first ever party” She sniffled causing Vadik to sigh.
“You… you didn't ruin it Pinkie, I did with my own stupidity, next time I'll try to be a better participant” Vadik said as he walked over and opened the door to discover Pinkie standing there but her hair was darker and unusually straight.
“You promise?” She asked as Vadik nodded” Pinkie promise” She said as he lifted his hand before she shook her head. “No, like this” She said taking his hand and moving it to his chest over his heart. “Cross my heart” She said using his finger to draw an X over his heart.
“Cross my heart” He repeated as she took his other hand before stopping to see it bleeding with a chunk of mirror sticking out of it before she flapped his arms.
“And hope to fly” She said which he repeated before she balled up his unfounded hand and moved it over his eye. “Stick a cupcake in my eye” She said.
“Stick a cupcake in my eye” He repeated moments before she hugged him and he returned the hug before her mane and tail puffed up again. “I'll be down, i… I just need to bandage my hand and get changes” He said before she nodded and left him alone. He smiled softly before closing the door and removing his armour and weapons before he walked over to a pile of new cloths which had a letter on top. “To Vadik, From Rarity” He read out loud before grabbing a top and a pair of jeans and got changed after he cleaned, Stitched and bandaged his hand.
Once complete he heard another knock at his door “Come in Pinkie, I am dressed” He called out before he heard the door open and someone enter.
“It's Luna, We... i heard what happened before you entered my room and also Pinkie said you were injured so I just came to check on you” She said as she looked at the man and then at the broken mirror. “Is everything okay?” She asked him.
“Yea, I'm just getting too comfortable around you lot” Vadik said turning to see the Alicorn in the long, slightly revealing dress. “How did you get it to sparkle like stars?” he asked as she smiled.
“Tis… it's my secret” She smirked as Vadik chuckled softly and walked towards the door but she grabbed him by the wrist. “I… I just wanted to thank you again for everything that you have done already, i have grabbed the materials from your bag and you got more than enough thank you” She said as he shrugged.
“It's what I do” He said before she nodded and walked with him to the stairs down. “So what's gonna happen to Nightmare when she is separated?” Vadik asked.
“I was hoping she could stay with you for a short while so she is safe b…” Luna was about to say something before Vadik interrupted her.
“ Sure” He said as he walked down the stairs and over to an empty couch to sit. Once he was seated, he discovered a muffin in front of him being held by the grey Pegasus mare.
“Hi, um here… I thought it would help” She said nervously which caused Vadik to smile softly and accept the gift before patting the empty space next to him which the mare quickly took.
“You didn't have to but thank you Ditzy” He said smiling as she nodded before he pulled the muffin in half and handed her half.
“Thank you and you can call me Derpy… Everypony else does” She said.
“Why do they?” Vadik asked the mare as she sighed.
“I'm really clumsy… or it might be because my eye or something else” She sighed and lent back into the couch.
“Your Eye?” He asked as she pointed to her crooked eye. “Oh I didn't even notice and if it is because of that then they are quite mean” He said as Derpy simply shrugged. “Well let's change the subject, tell me about yourself” He asked with a soft smile.
“Well um, my name is Ditzy Doo, i work as a Mailmare, i was born and raised in Cloudsdale until I had my Daughter who is a 17 year old Unicorn Filly” She said before noticing Vadik with an eye cocked. “What?” she asked.
“How old are you?” Vadik asked the mare causing her to blush.
“Thirty four” She said quietly.
“Really, you look like you are in your early twenties” he said causing the mare to blush more just Vadik smiled at her before he rose to his feet.
“W-where are you going?” She asked him.
“Just need some fresh air” He smiled as he made his way to the front door and exited. Once outside, he walked over to the cave entrance and leant against the opening and sighed “What are you doing you twit?” he asked himself before shaking his head before he arguing coming from behind him so he turned to see Rainbow arguing with a white Pegasus stallion, who was occupied by a few other Pegasus stallions “What's this?” Vadik asked himself as he slowly approached.
“Come on Dashie it'll be fun and just like old times” The white stallion said to her but she shook her head.
“No Soarin, i-I'm not touching that crap again and I want nothing to do with you” She said before taking a step back and feeling the cave wall against her back.
“Oh but Dashie, i want everything to do with you and so do my friends” He said as the other stallion chuckled “and besides, you were so much more… Loyal on this stuff” He said chuckling. “And I promise not to get you pregnant this time” He said taking a step towards her.
“You are a Bastard” She said as he wings flared only for two of the stallions to grab her and force her against the wall.
“Why do you still care about that filly? It's been four years since that mistake was righted” He chuckled and grabbed her by the chin before producing a small bottle from his jacket but as he unscrewed it he suddenly shivered. “When did it get so cold?” He asked as Dash’s eyes locked on the man behind Soarin.
“Give me a good reason” Vadik said as he dropped two unconscious and bleeding Stallion among several others.
“I… we… it's just a prank… yea all for a good laugh” Soarin nervously laughed as the other two stallions did the same and released Rainbow Dash and stepped away from her but what caused them to stop was when Vadik was began laughing.
“Oh good one, Hey I got one. Have you ever heard of The Bird and the Worm?” He asked them as all four shook their heads. “Oh well this is the Bird” Vadik said raising his fist.
“But what is the Worm?” Soarin asked curious.
“Oh this” Vadik said, slamming his fist into Soarin’s groin with all his strength, resulting in two quite pops. “Who wants to hear the joke next?” Vadik asked as the other two Stallions quickly got out of there while Soarin collapsed to his knees holding his bleeding groin while squeaking. “Now then Boy” Vadik said grabbing the Stallion by the mane and forced him to his feet just as the man's expression turned from a smirk to a look capable of terrifying the fiercest predator. “Fuck with Blue again and well, you will beg for this pain you feel right now” He said before dropping the stallion on the ground before turning to Dash and offered his hand, which she took. As they approached the front door, Dash pulled on Vadik’s hand gaining his attention. “Yea?” he asked her moments before she wrapped her arms around his neck and began crying her eyes out into his shoulder just as several ponies exited the house to see Dash crying her eyes out, several unconscious stallions and Soarin muttering about testicles.
“What the Hay is goin’ on out ‘ere?” AppleJack asked as Vadik looked at her then back at Dash.
“Long or short?” He asked.
“Short darling” Rarity said as Vadik took a deep breath.
“Soarin tried to drug and most likely attempt to gang fuck her, i rocked up, kicked the shit out of most of them, Soarin said it was all a prank so I showed him the joke about the Bird and the Worm” Vadik said with a shrug.
“Bird and the Worm?” Celestia asked just as Vadik raised his unbandaged bloodied hand and then pointed at Soarin before it clicked. “Oh” She said as several stallions in the small crowd instinctively covered their groins.
(Unknown Location)
“How could we be so weak?” Star asked as he tapped his fingers against each other as he sat upon a makeshift throne. “We lost both Trixie, the Dragon Lord and Nightmare Moon” He sighed as he turned his gaze to see Solaris with a magic inhibiting collar while training physically. “What are you doing?” Star asked the Alicorn.
“Getting stronger so I can kill that human” Solaris growled as star shook his head and turned his gaze to see Nightmare simply floating around the room from Shadow to shadow.
“What are you doing?” Star asked.
“He is coming” Nightmare said, gaining the attention of the ponies, Changeling and Centur.
“Who is coming?” Tirak asked as he downed a large mug of ale.
“Oh I don't need any introductions” a Echoed voice stated with a chuckle moments before Star found himself on the floor and a hooded being sitting on his throne.
“What do you think you are bucking doing? Do you know who I am?” Star asked as the hooded figure chuckled.
“Yes… yes I do, you are the being whom stole some of my energy” He said as several echoes of his voice screamed ‘Stole’. “Do you know who I am?” The hooded figure asked.
“So stupid colt trying to play with those more powerful than himself” Star growled as he glanced at his allies only to discover everyone in the room save for Nightmare, surrounded in a black aura and lifted off the ground.
“I said do you know who I am? Not do you know who you are” He chuckled as he twirled his fingers causing the People in his magic to slowly spin and rotate in the air.
“No i don't, now let me down flank hole” Star growled before he was roughly slammed into the ground.
“There you go” the hooded figure laughed as he let the others continue to spin.
“Bastard, What do you want then?” Star asked as he looked up to see the figure in front of him before he felt the man grab him roughly by the back of his head and lift him to his feet.
“A new minion” He said with a chuckle before running his gloved finger down the stallion’s cheek.
“And who the Buck are you?” Star asked.
“Oh, my name is too long and complicated for your pathetic little head to comprehend so call me Mr L” He said before dropping the stallion and returned to the throne. “And it's time to get this party truly started” He laughed sadistically.
It had been several days since the party and the incident with Rainbow’s Ex, said ex had managed to escape being imprisoned due to the pegasus bribing the judge and jury before vanishing without a trace. Rainbow was completely distraught about the matter and temporarily moved her house above Vadik’s for protection, much to Vadik shock about a house made of clouds… and the fact that he had no Idea how he was suppose to help look after her when she lived a hundred metres above him.
Apart from that, Trixie awoke finally and had a mini panic attack when she encountered the now free Nightmare and managed to knock herself out on the front door. The day after, Vadik was greeted by Pip and his friends, who decided that Vadik should be apart of their little club as he didn’t have a butt tattoo or what they called a Cutie mark which Vadik honestly didn't care either way save for the odd times where they dragged him off for an adventure for him to gain his mark, even though he explained several times that he doesn't get one as he was human.
“Hey um… Mr Vadik?” A voice called causing the man, who at that moment was sharpening one of his swords, to look up to see a pair of mares standing before him, one was a light cream earth pony mare with a pink and blue mane who wore a tan cardigan and jeans while the other was a mint coloured unicorn mare with a green mane that had a white strip down at who wore a green hoodie and blue shorts, both seemed to either be wearing strong perfume or something because Vadik couldn't smell it before the mares arrived.
“Yes Bon Bon?” Vadik asked the mare whom he met the day before when the Cutie Mark crusaders dragged him into her store. “And skip the mr part” he added.
“Right, sorry, um this is my roommate Lyra Heartstrings” She said pointing to the Unicorn who seemed to be breathing very rapidly while her eyes scanned him from head to toe.
“Ah yes, the human ‘fanatic” He said standing causing the Unicorn mare’s eyes to widen as she saw how big he was.
“Yes… well seeing as Everypony is talking about you… you cashing in the bets they placed against her, i thought it best to introduce you both” Bon Bon said as she looked to the shocked Unicorn.
“Well it is a pleasure to meet you ms Heartstrings” He said offering his hand.
“y… bu… oh my” Lyra said before fainting.
“Well that was unexpected” Vadik said as he watched Bon Bon pick the mare up.
“Yea I thought she would react differently, oh and I heard that Twilight and her friends want to see you at Lotus and Aloe’s place” She said as Vadik nodded before entering the house only to return with a different top on and a bag of coin.
“Okay so… who is Aloe and Lotus?” Vadik asked.
“Um just follow me and I will take you to their spa” She said which Vadik agreed before they began their way to Ponyville the smell he picked up on before seemed to be growing stronger the closer they were to the town.
“Alright and any idea why they want to see me?” Vadik asked.
“Um something about helping you relax” Bon Bon shrugged.
“Um okay then” Vadik said as the pair soon arrived at the spa.
“Okay so just head inside while I take Lyra home and hopefully we can try this again and not get the same result” Bon Bon said before walking off with said mare.
“Okay… so today is already weird and it's what no even midday?” he asked himself as he entered the large building only to have his senses bombarded with a variety of an overwhelming musk which nearly made him gag “Holy Shit” He groaned as he did his best to breath out his mouth while he approached the front counter before noticing that no one was present. So he simply called out loudly only to get no response making him concerned save for when he noticed a slightly opened door.
“Shh girls, he is out there, it's only a matter of seconds before his curiosity gets to him” a familiar voice said barely audible which caused Vadik to smirk and exit the spa before walking to the market.
“Um Twilight, your little plan didn't work” Rarity said as she came out of her hiding place.
“Celestia damn it” She said with a frown.
(Ponyville Market)
As Vadik walked through the marketplace, he couldn't help the feeling of dread as he looked around, several things didn't add up, firstly, where the fuck did all the guys go? Secondly, why hadn't the strong smell get worse the further he got into town? and Thirdly, why was nearly every mare looking at him funny?
“Vadik my boy!” A voice called out to him causing him to turn and see his Changeling friend at his stall waving his hands to get his attention.
“Chappy what's wrong?” Vadik asked as he walked over concerned Changeling.
“You, that's What's wrong!” He exclaimed.
“What did I do? I haven't killed anyone recently” Vadik said as Chappy took a second to take in the information before shaking his head.
“No you fool, You just walked into a major earth pony town at the start of their heat!” Chappy said.
“And that is a bad thing?” Vadik asked not understanding the dilemma.
“Yes, you know that this town has the worse male to female ratio out of the world?” Chappy asked.
“Wait what's wrong with the ratio?” Vadik asked.
“You have got to be kidding me, Look just…” The Changeling was just about to say something when a loud ear piercing scream was heard causing Vadik to instinctively turn his head to the sound to see several stallions run passed with a few dozen mares chasing them.
“What the fuck kind of race is that?” Vadik asked as Chappy face palmed.
“How can you be so dense?” Chappy asked.
“I try my best to be so” Vadik chuckled causing the Changeling to groan.
“Just find somewhere to hide out until the heat season is over” He advised.
“Wait then why are you not hiding?” Vadik asked as Chappy gave him a deadpanned look before he was surrounded in green flames briefly before revealing a female version of himself. “Oh right, well I guess I better get going because of pony heat which I don't understand” He said before he began to walk towards the forest.
“It should be over in a couple weeks” Chappy called out as Vadik gave him the thumbs up as he walked, the man was grateful that the stench weakened as he moved away from the town.
“Got to look up what heat is next time I'm at Twilight’s cause those pony anatomy books didn't mention a single thing about it” He groaned before getting an idea. “Why not just grab the book now?” He asked himself as he looked around and saw that Twilight’s castle was on the other side of town. “Shit, fuck that” He said before continuing on his journey before stopping again at the forests edge as a gust of wind blew passed him. “Blue?” He asked.
“How did you know it was me?” Rainbow Dash asked as she floated down from a cloud she just darted to.
“Oh I just guessed” He said before taking in her appearance, which seemed like her usual gear for flying but why was she sweating so much. “Hey are you alright?” He asked as he took a step towards her only to stop when he was stuck by a bitter blueberry smell.
“Oh nothing, just you know… practicing tricks and that” She said as her wings ruffled frequently.
“Right, well I hope you are having fun” He said as he went to step passed her but she grabbed his arm causing him to cock an eyebrow.
“Wait… I… I new your help… the girls and I need your help” She said nervously.
“With what?” He asked her as she briefly looked left and then right.
“Our heat is bad this year and we need your help to relieve it” She said as he cocked his eye again. “You know, buck us” She said.
“No way in hell” He said jerking his free of her grip and began walking down the path to his home.
“If this is because we aren't the same species, then don't worry it isn't look down here, Buck my step dad is a griffon” She said following him.
“It isn't that you are a different species, i have relations with other races” He said to her as she flew in front of him and grabbed his top.
“Okay then, if it's cause you think it will ruin our friendship, then don't its just casual sex… that is if you want it to go somewhere then I wouldn't mind” She said with a shrug.
“No, there is no such th I as casual sex between friends” He said as he moved passed her.
“Then we could try something, you know a relationship” She offered causing the man to stop and her to smirk.
“Fuck no, i don't want to see you die because of me” He said before he began walking again but Dash simply stood their in shock of what he just said to her for a moment before shaking it off and flying towards him and stopping him once again.
“What do you mean?” She asked him.
“Simple, everyone I have a serious relationship with or love dies because of me, either I am not strong enough to protect them or not fast enough to save them” He sighed “So just let this drop Blue” He said as he tried to step passed her again before he was punched in the shoulder by the mare.
“I won't drop this, you can't live this way anymore cause you don't live in that place anymore, not only that, i .can protect myself and I am the fastest pony in Equestria” She said crossing her arms.
“Why do you care so much about this anyway?” he asked her quietly.
“Because you are not like any other stallion I have met, before I met you, i didn't let any guy close but after what you did for me with Soarin, you showed me that there was at least one I could allow close enough” she said as the man sighed. “How about just giving one more relationship a go before give up on them completely?” She asked as the man took a deep breath and nodded his head.
“Fine what ever” He sighed.
“Pinkie Promise?” She asked.
“Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cup cake in my eye” He said with a soft smile before she hugged him.
“You won't regret this” She said smiling.
“I hope so” He groaned before grabbing his hand and attempted to fly with him only resulting in the two crashing several metres away. “Ow” He groaned.
“Okay maybe I'll bring the girls here” She said be for taking off and flying away.
“What did I just agree to?” he asked as Nightmare came outside to see Vadik laying on the ground.
“Having fun?” She asked with a giggle as he flipped her off before getting up. “I just wanted to warn you that the mares will he active and aggressive due to them being in heat” She warned.
“You dont say” He said sacrasticly.
“Well anyway, i recommend you do somewhere to hide before the mares come for you” She warned as Vadik simply stood up, walked over to her and flicked her on the nose.
“And haven't you become queen horny butt?” He asked her.
“Because I have my he at the start of spring, not at the start of autumn which is the one going on right now.” She explained “So as i said better find a good hi do place before they realise that you are here” She advised.
“Too late” He said as he simply walked over to the house.
“What do you mean?” She as him.
“Well if you warned me earlier then maybe they wouldn't be coming here right now” He groaned bed of entering the house.
“Oh” She said before entering the house also “Well how are you going to get out of this?” She asked as she watched him fill up a large bucket full of water.
“What I use to do to the other mercenaries in my band when they were trying shit with locals” He said before placing his hand into the water and rapidly cooled it.
“You were In a band of mercenaries?” She asked curiously as she sat at the table.
“Yea around when I was sixteen, as my clan encouraged us to undergo a right passage to see the world and face what ever It through
threw at us, and seeing as my mother was ex mercenary, she contacted her old band and asked if they could take me under their wing” He said as a soft smile crossed his face before sighing. “Worse thing I ever did with my life” he added before a series of loud knocks so Vadik picked up the bucket filled with freezing water. “Mind getting the door?” he asked Moon who nodded and joined him by the door.
“This is a bad idea” She warned him but he shrugged. “Okay don't say I didn't warn you” She said as she opened the door before stepping back.
“Hey V… ahh what the Buck!” Rainbow screamed out as her and her friends were covered in water. “Why?” She asked.
“Cause I agreed to a relationship not a six on one” He said with a smirk.
“But now we have to take off our wet clothes so we don't get a and we have nothing to replace it with” Rarity said.
“Fuck” Vadik groaned.
Chapter 10 - Merry Band Of Mercenaries
“Now ladies, we can work this out” Vadik said as he moved backwards as the mares entered.
“Well you are the one that made us wet” Pinkie said giggling.
“Yes Darling and you also allowed us insi. .. “Rarity was say in before an ear piercing roar was heard causing Vadik’s expression to change from nervous to serious in a moment.
“What the Hay was that?” Twilight asked as Vadik grabbed his swords which hung upon a wall near the door.
“Bog Basilisk” He said stepping passed them.
“What the Hay is a Bog Basilisk?” AppleJack asked only to her answer when she and the other mares saw a large sickly green reptile the size of a Manticore, it had a tan frill on the back of it’s head, dark green spines running down its body, it had glowing golden eyes and what appeared to have a red, frog like throat which inflated and deflated. The beast was standing at the of the side barrier as Vadik pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and covers his mouth and nose.
“Vadik don't worry, no monster from Equis can get through that barrier” Nightmare said as Vadik drew his sword.
“I know” Vadik said as the Basilisk roared and charged through the barrier as if it wasn't there which was when the stench of rotting meat and decaying vegetation. “It's not from Equis” Vadik said dodging to the left as the reptile snapped at where the man had just stood before it whipped its tail at Vadik, who severed the beast tail causing it to roar in pain before it leapt away from Vadik and turned to face him moments before it’s tail regenerated. “Cheater” Vadik growled as Basilisk throat began to expand and glow. “Oh no you don't” Vadik said before throwing his sword at the beast, which pierced through it’s head causing it to collapse on the ground dead while a brown goo oozed from it's mouth.
“Vadik!” Dash called out as she flew over and checked him for injuries.
“I'm fine Blue” He said with a chuckle before she grabbed his left arm.
“No your not, look” She said showing him several spines sticking out of his arm.
“Shit” Vadik said moving inside passed the mares and into the kitchen, where he opened a cabinet and pulled out a bottle of clear liquid.
“What are you doing Vadik?” Twilight asked.
“I have to clean this wound as much as I can as the spines are full of a substance which will start breaking down the area around the spines” He explained as he wrapped a towel around the first spine.
“Do you need help?” Dash asked.
“I need a large metal bowl which is in the the cupboard, I need the first aid Kit which is in the forge, and I need Someone to Inform Celestia that we have a major problem” He said as the the mares went to grab what he needed as Moon came over to him.
“Why is there a major problem?” She asked just as Vadik pulled the first spine free causing him to growl in pain as blood started to pour from the wound.
“That was a Male Bog Basilisk, young but the Fucker was… was hunting for his mate” He said as he ripped the second spine from his arm getting the Same result just as Rarity came in with the First aid Kit, just before she fainted.
“And how do you know that?” Moon asked as she floated Rarity onto a couch and grabbed the first aid Kit.
“One, it's frill wasn't fully extended, which means it either has recently found a mate or recently been forced off one, Two, it's hunting openly and away from water meaning it is looking for food for its pregnant mate” He said as he placed the last spine in the metal bowl that moon grabbed for him before he grabbed the bottle of alcohol and opened it.
“And what is so bad about that?” She asked.
“It means there is at least a pregnant female Bog Basilisk nearby, and trust me those are three times as big and seeing as her mate won't be coming back, she will come out hunting… that is if there isn't another male” He explained as he cleaned the wounds on his arm and stitched them shut.
“And what is so bad about that?” She asks again as Vadik groaned in annoyance.
“Well one, female Bog Basilisks are immune to magic, Two they can turn invisible and three, the females need to eat close to a ton of meat daily when pregnant and do you know where the closest source of meat is?” He asked her as she shook. “A town… AKA Ponyville” He said as Moon finally understood what he was getting at.
“So what do we do?” She asked.
“Well I have to go kill it and make sure any eggs it has birthed are destroyed” He said making the Mare frown.
“Is that really the only way?” She asked with a sad expression.
“Yes, if I don't then we will have a hundred of the things running around, killing anything they find before eating it, they may mate once a decade but they are a natural pest because they kill so much and spawn a horde of offspring” He said as he finished bandaging himself up.
“Please don't make them suffer” Fluttershy asked softly causing both Moon and Vadik to look at her as she sniffled. “I know they may be bad for the ecosystem but that doesn't mean they should suffer” She said as Vadik sighed before walking over and wrapping an arm around the timid mare making her squeak.
“I make it quick, and I'll see if I can find how they got here and maybe drive her back in” He said as she nodded and hugged him back tightly.
“Thank you” She sniffed as she released him and went to check on Rarity.
“No worries” Vadik said as he headed out the exit and over to the corpse of the reptile as Twilight examined and grabbed her hand before she could touch the brown ooze coming from it's mouth. “don't touch it, the slime on it’s body is toxic and that sludge will cause a 37 hour paralysis” He said releasing her hand as she nodded and moved back while the man placed his boot on the Basilisk’s head and drew his sword from it before using a fire spell on the corpse, causing it to instantly burst into flames due to the flammable slime on its body.
“What are you doing now?” Twilight asked as Vadik cleaned his blade with a cloth that he pulled from his pocket before incinerating it.
“I'm going to deal with any others so they don't come and kill anyone” He said as Twilight nodded before wrapping her arms around him.
“Please be careful and hurry, I can only imagine how the other girls heat is affecting them” She said as she nuzzled his arm.
“I'll be as quick as I can” He replied before he entered the forest and began tracking where the Bog Basilisk came from.
(Half an hour later)
“Surely I must be getting close” Vadik muttered as he followed the prints through the forest, he had passed several paralysed animals but strangely, the Basilisk left them alone as if it was running away and they just go in it's way. Vadik was think about this over and over until he reached a small clearing with four trees bordering it, in the middle was the bloodied remains of what Vadik could only guess was the female Basilisk, around her were the crushed eggs she must have lain but the problem was that, the reptile seemed to have been torn limb from limb and burnt but that raised another concern to Vadik.
“What killed you?” He asked as he discovered large deep tracks that half resembled fists while the other resembled that of an ape’s feet. “Please let me be wrong” He said as he was about to follow until a loud scream was heard causing him to starting running in the direction of the scream, which was the same direction the tracks lead.
(Flutterpony Village)
A loud cry of pain was heard moments before a Griffon caravan guard collapsed on the ground dead with a massive hole in his chest, around the town where flutter ponies, Changelings and Griffons laid either wounded or dead. The culprit was a massive beast that no one had ever seen before, Not even the Changeling traders.
The Beast resembled a fifteen foot tall Dark gold Baboon with large horns on it’s head, the ape was hunched over making it look the size of the Alicorn Princesses though one of the beast arms was as thick as a Pony. The most terrifying thing about the beast was that moments after it arrived, a massive thunderstorm formed over head which it seemed to have control over.
“Help!” a young butterfly winged fluttering cried out as the massive ape approached her, it's arms covered in the blood of those it mutilated moments earlier, the monster was soon upon the yellow mare and grabbed her leg which it used to drag her under it so her head was directly below it’s maw that dripped with saliva. “HELP!!!” She screamed as the beast went to take a bite out of her when it suddenly discovered a muscular arm wrap around it’s neck and pull the Ape’s jaws away from the pony.
“Run!” the armoured, hairless, muscular, flat faced pony ordered. Which she nodded and quickly ran away as the beast broke free and kicked the hairless pony across the bloodstained street. “Fuck you kick like a… well like a Ria-gin” He said with a chuckle as the Ria-gin roared in anger at it’s lost meal.
“Ahh fuck you too” Vadik said drawing his sword just as the beast’s eyes glowed a golden colour just as it’s fur became lighter and lightning coursed through it. “Fuck I forgot you lot do that” Vadik said as the beast charged but before The man could defend himself, he heard a familiar voice call out.
“nai uuvanimo turamin!” A Female Voice called out causing the beast to suddenly stop in its tracks, it's rage subsided moments before it sat down.
“Embrace my Steel beast” A Male voice proclaimed as short figure in full dark purple plated armour came out of the blue wielding a massive battle axe, which he swung at the Ria-gin but missed as the beast broke free of the spell casted on it and leapt backwards, dodging it’s executioner. “Ah so that's how we’re gonna play this” The armoured man said in a thick familiar accent.
“Vincent?” Vadik asked confused before shaking his head and joining the armoured man’s side.
“Been some time Vadik” The Dwarf said.
“How did you get here?” Vadik asked as the two dodged attack from the monster.
“Ya want the long story or the short?” Vincent asked as he severed the offending limb of the Ria-gin causing it to roar in pain.
“Short please” asked as he formed a lance of ice and impaired it through the beast’s shoulder.
“Well Keira, Nymph and Myself were huntin’ this lovely when Nymph’s spell backfired and opened a massive portal that sucked everything in” Vincent explained before he was kicked away by the Ria-gin.
“Wait Keira and Nymph are here?” Vadik asked as a fireball slammed into his attacker’s side before it transformed into a hooded figure.
“Yes we are” the figure said as magic surrounded her hands. “But how are you here?” She asked as she suddenly transformed into large Gryphoness, unlike the Griffons of Equis, she depicted a feral Griffon of the group’s home world.
“I got hired for a job” Vadik said as his transformed friend mauled the Rai-Gin.
“And why didn't we hear about this matey? We are a team” Vincent said charging at the beast again and severed its tail.
“We disbanded a few weeks back” Vadik said driving his blade through the beast’s chest and it’s heart.
“No we didn't, you just left us after Nymph got hurt saving you” Keira said as she transformed back into her regular self after the Ria-gin fell to the floor dead.
“Yes Laddy, we know you but ya should really trust us more” Vincent said as he removed his helmet to reveal his long braided black hair and beard.
“I do, but I can't trust myself not to hurt everyone around me” Vadik said.
“Hey it isn't your fault that you can control the Full release on the Black Star” Keira said to the man as she lowered her hood to reveal her white hair and blue feline eyes. “Nymph knew the risk but she still wanted to save you from destroying yourself” Keira explained as Vadik took a deep breath and nodded.
“I think I need to see her” Vadik said.
“Tis a good Idea Laddy” Vincent said walking up to the corpse of the Ria-gin and beheading it with his axe. “But the real question is, are ya willing to reform our band of merry Monster hunting, King killing Mercenaries?” He asked with a hearty laugh.
“Sure why not?” Vadik said as Keira smiled and hugged him.
“Fantastic… what's the pay for this job?” She asked curious.
“To be honest, I don't have a clue how much Coin I'm getting” He said as she frowned and released him.
“You are kidding me right?” She asked him as a hooded woman approached them with a 6 foot tall staff that she was using as a crutch. “Nymph, you alright” Keira asked concerned.
“Yea, just that fucking monkey got me and I used a lot of magic” She said before removing her hood to reveal the Blonde Elven sorceress’s features. “How are you brother?” She asked him as Vadik smiled and hugged the elf.
“I'm good, and yourself Nymph?” He asked her as she embraced him.
“I was so worried about you” She said sadly. “Please don't do that again” She asked him.
“I won't” He said breaking the embrace.
“Good, so do you have somewhere or do we need to go to a tavern?” She asked.
“I have a house that I'm staying in” Vadik replied to her.
“Good” She said turning before she raised her staff. “ Tanka harwar!” She called out in an echoed voice before slamming her staff into the ground causing a ripple of magic emerged from her staff and hit everywhere in the small town. To the shock of the town's people, their wounds began to heal quickly until all that remained of the attack was the corpses, blood and damage.
“Are you okay Nymph?” Vadik asked as the elf nodded before she began to fall but Vadik caught her and held her in a bridal fashion while Keira held her staff.
“Just tired” Nymph replied before falling asleep in the man's arms.
“Let's get going laddy” Vincent said putting his helmet back on.
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Chapter 11 - Strike 2 for Celestia, The New Caribou
“So it turned out that the old king had a thing about rutting dogs” Vincent said as Keira groaned.
“And seeing as Keira was impersonating his dog… “ Vadik was finishing before Keira interrupted.
“I drove a knife through his neck before he could fuck me” She growled.
“Yea Keira don't like Doggy Style” Vincent said before he began sprinting as Keira transformed into a large snake and went after him.
“Those two never change” Nymph said causing Vadik to look down at the elf looking at the Dwarf climbing a try with a pissed off doppelganger trying to hurt him.
“You're awake!” Vadik said as Nymph nodded before looking back at Vadik.
“Yea I have been for the last twenty minutes… I just found it comfortable to be carried, seeing Vincent is too short and Keira is a bit grabby” Nymph said with a giggle.
“Yea… look I am sorry for running, just I…” Vadik was saying before he was stopped by the elf.
“it's fine, I was just worried that you would get yourself killed and besides we are all back together now” She said smiling at her friend before they both turn when they heard a scream.
“You farted... in my mouth” Keira coughed violently.
“Well ya shouldn't have tried to eat me” Vincent said as he ran off with Keira in hot pursuit.
“Yep, same old idiots” Vadik said.
(Vadik’s house)
Rainbow Dash was sitting at the front step with a worried and slightly annoyed expression on her face, she didn't know if Vadik was in danger or just avoiding them because of their heat.
“Dashie, ya alright?” AppleJack asked as she sat next to her friend.
“Yea I am AJ, just worried about the big guy” She sighed.
“Well don't worry, heal be back soon enough and rutting ya then” She said with a chuckle which successfully gained a laugh from Dash but they stopped laughing when they saw a short armoured pony run out of the tree line, carrying a severed head and a staff.
“What the Buck?” Rainbow Dash asked before a large black Manticore burst from the trees except it wasn't like the usual Manticores of Eauestria as it’s body was all muscle and same proportions, not to mention that it's tail was bright red.
“Keira leave Vince alone” Vadik said coming out of the with a woman beside him.
“No” The Manticore roared moments before it was tackled by Vadik.
“Stop or you don't get your share of the coin” Vadik said as the beast growled and transformed into a Female human with a revealing attire.
“Fine… and you can get off me now” She said as Vadik stood up and helped her up.
“Vadik!” Dash said zoomin forward only to stop when she found an axe and a sword pressed against her throat causing her to go white as a sheet.
“Vince, Keira relax, she is one of the ones I have to protect… we have to protect” Vadik said as Keira and Vincent sheathed their weapons moments before Dash hugged Vadik.
“Alright Laddy, mine introducing us to the lass?” Vincent asked as he removed his helmet.
“Oh This is… well don't laugh but it's Rainbow Dash” He said moments before the two mercenaries burst out laughing as Nymph giggled before retrieving her staff from Vincent.
“Oh goddess, I feel so sorry for you” Keira said laughing.
“It gets worse” Vadik said “most of their towns are puns” He said as the two mercenaries fell over laughing loudly as Rainbow Dash frowned.
“I was worried about you, flankhole” Dash said punching his shoulder.
“flankhole hahaha” Vincent said hysterically.
“Nymph” Vadik said.
“Alright you both, for that you have to go bring the Ria-gin here… I was gonna teleport it here but seeing as you to are being a couple of hyenas, you to will bring it here or else I'll swap you bodies again” The Elf said as Keira and Vincent instantly shot up and ran off into the forest.
“Thanks Nymph” Vadik said as the Elf smiled before she said down on a stump and relaxed.
“Who are they?” Twilight asked as she exited.
“The other members of my mercenary band” Vadik said as he hugged Dash . “and I am sorry I made you worry” he said to the pegasus.
“Better be, you going to cure our heat now?” She said seductively.
“Yep… Nymph you still remember that spell you used on that sisterhood of succubi?” Vadik asked.
“How long do you want the spell to last?” She asked as she stood up and stretched.
“Um about two weeks” Vadik said as Dash looked at him confused.
“Alrighty.” Nymph said as she focused her magic, causing the gem on the tip of her staff to glow red before she slammed the base of the staff into the ground causing a ripple of energy to cover everything in the space of a mile. “All done” She said half collapsing onto her Staff which caused Vadik to drop Rainbow Dash to help her.
“Hey!” Dashie said annoyed before she felt around her body. “My heat… it's gone?!” She said happily hi confused.
“Yes tis a spell used against succubi to allow us to talk to them with them trying to fuck Vadik or Vincent… on normal people it caused them to not feel turned on for a while” She said tiredly. “Shit my mana is still low.” She groaned as Twilight walked over to her.
“How did you do that?” the Alicorn asked.
“Please don't tell me you are one of those ignorant bigots who hate Sorceresses cause if you try to burn me, I'll kill you” Nymph growled.
“No no no you got it wrong, I am the Princess of Magic, I was just asking Because I have never seen magic like that before” Twilight with her hands up.
“Oh… maybe I can teach you a thing or two… if you return the favour” Nymph offered.
“I'd like that Ms Nymph” Twilight said offering her hand which Nymph took and shook it.
“Incoming!!” Vincent's voice could be heard moments before he face planted into the dirt followed by the corpse of the Ria-Gin on top of him and a massive red Dragon next to it, which transformed into Keira.
“That is for farting in my mouth” She growled before pulling the massive dead monster off her friend.
“Worth it” Vincent said pushing himself out of the dirt and grabbing the other end of the beast.
“What do ya plan on doing with that?” AppleJack asked.
“We are going to skin it, Gut it, bleed it, Carve it, Cook it and eat it” Keira said as Applejack and Rainbow Dash went white and fainted. “light weights” She said as the two dragged the bleeding corpse behind the tree house.
“Idiots” Vadik and Nymph said before Nymph pushed herself off her friend.
“I'm good right now, let's get inside and meet our charges” Nymph said as Vadik nodded and walked over to AppleJack and Rainbow Dash.
“Um I just need to warn you that Pinkie Pie can be a little intense” Twilight said as Nymph groaned.
“You lot are just asking for Vincent and Keira to laugh” She said as she opened the door only to have a wild Pinkie appear but the confrontation was short as Nymph tapped her staff against the mare’s forehead and she fell asleep.
“What did you do?” Twilight asked.
“Sleep spell” Nymph said stepping over Pinkie and walked over to an unoccupied couch which she flopped on and sighed loudly. “I so call this couch” She chuckled.
“There are spare Rooms” Vadik said.
“Do you have hot water?” Nymph asked as Vadik nodded. “Lead the way” She said standing up and followed Vadik upstairs.
“Vadik has some very… interesting friends” Celestia said as her invisibility spell deactivated.
“Celestia! What are you doing here?” Twilight asked.
“I have been following Vadik shortly after he left and I have learnt more about him” She said crossing her arms.
“Like what Tia?” Twilight asked.
“Like He has murdered kings.... in cold blood, I want you all to get out of here as soon as possible, I have already teleported Rarity, Trixie, Nightmare Moon and Fluttershy away” She said as she glared at the stairs.
“W-what? How could Discord not tell us about this?” Twilight asked as she picked up her their unconscious friends.
“I don't know but with Luna asleep, I will be alone to inform him of his recent ‘unemployment’ “ She said as Twilight nodded before teleporting away moments before Vadik came downstairs.
“Oh Tia, just the mare I wanted to see” He said with a smile.
“That's Princess Celestia to you Murderer” She growled as Vadik stopped, his smile vanished in a moment.
“So you followed me? Or did Luna tell you?” Vadik asked crossing his arms.
“I followed you, I wanted to see your combat skill so I could figure out how much to pay you… then I heard about that conversation… please correct me if I am wrong but at you a murderer? And please tell me you are not” She asked.
“I am a Murderer, I have killed men and women in cold blood, I have purposely hunted down people for coin or revenge.” Vadik replied.
“Why? Why did you not but your skills to go like work for a king as a Knight?” She asked him only to recoil at the sudden rage.
“WHY DO YOU THINK I MURDERED PEOPLE? OUT OF FUCKING FUN?, NO ITS BECAUSE SOME FUCKING ROYAL SON OF A HAG ORDERED ME TOO” Vadik shouted at her. “When I finally had enough and tried to leave, that fucking Bastard took me home, tied me to a post in front of my clan’s Village and burning my home to ash, any of my family that tried to escape were captured and hung… all because I get a conscious… Vincent found me and showed me how to ignore it and together we took my revenge against that nation… “ Vadik said clenching his fists “So I'm taking that you want nothing to do with us then, So be It… get the fuck out” Vadik said pointing to the door, where both Keira and Vincent stood with weapons drawn.
“Vadik…” Celestia tried to say before she was grabbed by Keira and forcefully removed from the building.
“Fuck off bitch” Keira said to her as she watched Celestia teleport away. “You okay big guy?” Keira asked.
“No… I need a drink” Vadik said sitting on his couch.
“Ahh Northern Orc spirit or Southern Orc Gold?” Vincent asked as he looked through his rucksack.
“Northern” Vadik said as the Dwarf pulls a bottle of clear liquid from his bag and handed it to his old friend.
“And you Keira?” Vincent asked.
“Gold please” She asked as the Dwarf pulled a bottle of thick golden liquor from his bag and handed it to her before pulling out a bottle for himself and sitting next to Vadik.
“She was bound to find out soon enough Laddy, and look on the Brightside, if the baddies after her are really a problem, she is gonna come crawlin back… and pay double or triple the coin” Vincent said causing Vadik to laugh.
“Yea… but the last couple of weeks I have been looking to settle down somewhere” Vadik groaned as he opened his bottle and took a large swig. “But I guess at least I have a place” He said with a soft smile moments before a flash of light filled the room and a very annoyed Luna appeared.
“I can't believe her” She growled as Vadik offered the bottle which She accepted. “Thanks Vadik” She said before sipping the bottle but coughed loudly. “Buck that's strong” She said handing it back. “Look Vadik I am sorry for what happened, Nightmare is back upstairs and she has brought compensation for… that confrontation… and I would like to offer you the job again.” Luna said.
“No deal Lassy, it has to be ms so far up her own arse with quadruple pay or nothing… and she has to beg” Vincent said.
“Deal” Luna said before teleporting away.
“Since when did you get so good at negotiating?” Keira asked.
“Well seein’ ah can't flaunt tits that I don't got, I had to use ma Dwarven knowledge.” Vincent said tapping his head.
“I don't think a monkey on a type written counts as Knowledge” Keira replied.
“it does missy” Vincent replied.
“That's all well and good except… Celestia never gave a definite number… so for all we know, she could give us four coins” Vadik said.
“Yes but She explained to Luna and myself that the number ranged in the area of $2000 bits to $4000 “ Nightmare Moon said as she came downstairs and sat across from the three.
“Ah ha $8000 to $16,000 coin” Vincent said clapping before pulling out a bottle of clear liquid. “Here lassy” The Dwarf said handing the bottle to Nightmare.
“Thank you” She said before opening the bottle.
“So what's your honest opinion of me?” Vadik asked as he took another swig of the Orcish drink.
“Honestly?” She asked him as she sipped her drink and winced at the burning sensation. “I want to claim you as mine… if that's how it is said nowadays” Moon said out loud as Keira and Vincent started laughing.
“Ya won't his prick or him girly?” Vincent asked causing the mare and Man to go bright red.
“Him… I meant I would like to try a courtship with him”She said as the two stopped laughing and took on a serious expression.
“Now that changes things” Keira said.
“I honestly do…”Vadik was saying before he was interrupted.
“Vadik will decided after you have proven to Vincent, Keira and Myself that you won't hurt him” Nymph said from the stairs in a fluffy pink and gold trimmed bathrobe.
“I promise I…” Moon didn't he to finish before Nymph stopped her.
“Actions speak louder than words and they are also truer than any” She said walking over and sitting on a plush seat. “So do you accept or not?” She asked.
“I accept” Nightmare said.
“Excellent, let's drink, Vincent may i have gold please?” She asked as a bottle of the grog and passed it to her. “Thanks” She said before opening the bottle and joined the others in drinking.
“VADIK!!!” A voice screamed moments before a familiar Brown and White stallion burst into the house panting.
“Pip what's wrong?” Vadik asked as a crossbow bolt barely missed the stallion.
“Diamond Dogs” He said as he took cover.
“Stay down Laddy” Vincent said as the four Mercenaries stepped outside to come face to face with a two dozen dog men.
“Nymph, armour” Vadik said as Nymph raised her hands and her bathrobe combusted and transformed into silver armour.
“Better?” She asked.
“Yea… Alright Mutts, mine explaining why you are on my land?” Vadik said drawing his Bastard sword.
“We are after the stallion, this is none of your concern.” The alpha of the group said.
“That is where you are wrong, You see Pip is a Mate of mine and no one fucks with my mates” Vadik stated as Keira transformed into a massive terrifying black Spider. “And Those who do, end up dead”.
“Come on ya pups” Vincent taunted as the Dogs took a step backwards.
“I think they are frightened, maybe we should let them run?” Nymph asked as the Diamond Dogs started rapidly nodding.
“I want the Alpha Alive” Vadik said as both Nymph and Vincent smirked. “The rest… highest score gets 50 coin” Vadik said with a smirk.
“Wait! We'll give you our Alpha” The dogs said before knocking their leader unconscious.
“But we made a bet, unless you want to pay off the bet” Nymph said as the Diamond Dogs emptied their pockets of money and gems before running off into the forest.
“That works” Vadik said as the group collected the money and Diamond Dog before bringing them inside to see Nightmare confronting the distraught Stallion. “Vincent, take our friend to where you took the Rai-gin” Vadik said as the Dwarf nodded and dragged the Dog off as Vadik walked over to Pip and knelt down in front of him. “Hey mate, I need you to talk to me about what happened” Vadik said in a comforting tone.
“We were… we were exploring near the clearing a few miles from Ponyville when… when a pack of Diamond Dogs came out of the Everfree and began snatching Everypony… they got Babs, Diamond, Silver, Rumble, Button, Sweetie, Barb, AppleBloom, Dinky and Scootaloo” He said with a sniffle.
“Okay I'll go bring them home buddy, I just need you to right down what they all look like so I can make sure I grab them okay?” Vadik asked as Pip nodded. “Good man” Vadik said standing and grabbing a pen and paper, which he handed to Pip.
“How are you going to know where they went?” Nightmare asked.
“I'm gonna have a little chat with the mutt” Vadik said as he exited the building and moved behind it where the Ria-Gin was hanging skinned, Gutted and slowly being bled dry, next to the corpse was the Dog tied to a chair awake with Keira using his face as a punching bag. “Keira… we need his jaw intact, the rest… not so much” Vadik said as the Doppelganger nodded before drawing a knife and plunging it into the Dog’s knee. “Now pup, I need to ask you a few questions, if you cooperate then you can go home in one piece” Vadik said as he grabbed a chair and sat in front of the prisoner.
“And… I don't ?” He asked panting.
“You'll end up think the beast next to you” Vadik said causing the Dog to tense up.
“I'll tell you everything!” Re dog shouted.
“Good boy” Vadik said before straightening himself up. “What is your name?” Vadik asked.
“What why do to want to know my….” he was cut off as Keira slammed her fist into his gut causing him to growl in pain. “Diamond Pick… my name is Diamond Pick” He replied quickly.
“Nice to meet you Diamond Pick, Now then… care for a drink?” Vadik asked as he pulled the bottle of alcohol from his pocket.
“Why?” Diamond asked.
“It eases the pain and loosens your lips” Vadik said.
“Sure, why not” Pick said as Vadik poured a glass of the drink and fed it to the Dog.
“Now then, Why did you take those Ponies?” Vadik asked.
“I'm a Slaver, I snatch anything young so I can sell it to my buyers” Diamond Said as Vadik nodded.
“Good, now where is your base located” Vadik asked.
“thirty miles East of here” He said as Vadik nodded and stood up.
“Good, Keira… kill him” Vadik said as Keira smirked sadistically.
“Wait You promise you would let me go!” The dog Screamed.
“No I promised you would return in one piece” Vadik said as he watched as his friend began to strangle the Dog.
“Bas…” He tried to say before Keira snapped his neck.
“Shall we?” Vadik asked as Keira nodded and walked over to him before they returned to Nymph who they saw was opening a portal.
“The Portal is nearly ready, I sent a familiar out to find the camp, It just did so I am using it as a link for the portal on the cliff overlooking the camp” Nymph explained as the two nodded.
“Alright, we'll get our gear ready”
(Half an hour later, Slaver Camp)
“Now listen to me Whore, you shall do what your master says or you shall be whipped, understand me?” The Leader of the Slavers asked as he gripped a bound Scootaloo by her throat.
“Buck you, Vadik is gonna hurt you” She said spitting in the Caribou Buck’s face.
“Stupid bitch” The Caribou said back handing her and causing her to fall to the ground with a groan. “It's going to be a cold day in Tartarus when this Vadik rescues you” He stated as Scootaloo giggled. “What?” He asked.
“You don't feel that flank hole?” She giggled as she smirked defiantly at her capture.
“What?” He asked.
“It's gotten a buck ton colder” She said as the Caribou noticed her breath coming out as a mist.
“What does that mean?” He asked.
“Tartarus has just frozen over” She laughed as a Diamond Dog ran into the tent covered in snow.
“Sir!, Blizzard!” He screamed.
“What? It's the middle of summer!” He shouted just as a massive golden bloodied hand wrapped around the Dog and ripped him out of the tent. “W-what is going on!” He shouted before grabbing Scootaloo by her mane and dragged her to another entrance to the tent as a Massive golden Ape in dark grey armour tore into the Tent.
“That's new” Scootaloo as with wide eyes just as the Caribou dragged her out of the tent to see three other individuals murdering his men. “Vadik!” The mare screamed gaining the attention of the tallest being just as he tore a Diamond Dog in two.
“The Royal Caribou Knights are coming with Prince Danse” A Caribou shouted moments before an Arrow struck him in the back, causing him to fall to the ground as several Caribou in silver armour charged through the snow, trampling the wounded deer and began to murder the slavers.
“Enough!” The Caribou Slave shouted as he held a blade to Scootaloo’s throat, this caused Vadik to raise a hand to the giant golden beast which caused it to transform back into a woman. The blizzard also immediately died down to reveal that the Caribou Army had surrounded them all. “I demand to speak to Prince Danse!” He shouted as a silver armoured white Caribou approached him with a bright red mane. “No telling me why you are killing us? Your father has allowed us to operate in this area as long as we send him slaves.
“My Father no longer rules the Caribou, I made sure of it” Danse said through his faceplate.
“Y-yo murdered your father!” The Caribou said in shock. “You killed a god!” He shouted.
“The Fool was no God, just a pathetic old racist pervert who would have doomed our great nation to destruction if I allowed it… I stood by hoping for him to change until he took my dear sister, broke her and sold her” He said drawing his sword and pointing it towards the Slaver. “I shall give you a chance to redeem yourself, kneel and you shall be spared from your the Black Gate Prison” Danse said as the Caribou instant released the mare, who quickly darted towards Vadik and hugged him.
“Alright my King, I beg for your forgiveness and Mercy” The Caribou said kneeling in the snow before the white King.
“You shall have neither” Danse said slitting the slaver’s throat with his sword and left him to bleed out in the snow before turning his attention to Vadik. “You, come here” He said pointing towards Vadik, who picked Scootaloo up before walking over.
“What do you want?” Vadik asked.
“Who are you and why wet you and your friends attacking this camp?” He asked sheathing his sword.
“My name is Vadik and I can to rescue my friends” He said to the Deer.
“Then you have my respect for undertaking such a task for your friends” Danse said offering his hand which Vadik took and shook. “I suspect you know Princess Celestia?” Danse asked.
“Why do you say that?” Vadik asked.
“Because she just teleported behind you” Danse said with chuckle causing Vadik to look over his shoulder at the Alicorn.
“Vadik what are you doing with him?” She asked.
“What? You mean the Caribou that just charged an army into a camp to save save your citizens?” Vadik replied.
“He what?” She asked in shock.
“Princess, I desire to have a conversation with you about starting up a new trading contract between our fine nations” Danse said walking towards a tent and held it open for her.
“Um okay?” She asked looking at him for a moment before entering the tent.
Chapter 12 - New Contract
“Alright so the first shipment of suger, rubber and wine will arrive in three weeks, Make sure you have the shipment of Apples, flour and gems are ready” Danse said as he stepped out if the tent before looking to Vadik who was currently mobbed by several young mares and Colts which caused the King to chuckle. “Vadik!, come here, if you may” He gestured as Vadik managed to get free of group and approached the Caribou.
“Yes Danse?” Vadik asked moments before a pink mare hugged him from the side. “Diamond I'll be back over there in a sec” He said as the mare nodded before releasing him which earned a chuckle from Danse.
“Cute, I hear you are a mercenary, is this correct?” Danse asked as Vadik nodded. “Good, I have a job for you” He said as he pulled a photo from beneath his chest plate and handed it to the man. Vadik looked at the picture to see two white young Caribou, one he recognised by the red mane to be Danse but didn't recognise the Doe next to him. “I need you to find my sister, i know she has been purchased by a pony noble and is somewhere in Canterlot, Ponyville or The Crystal Empire… I want you to find her and see if your sorceress can help her mind” He said as Vadik looked at Nymph for a moment.
“I believe she has dabbled in psychology.” Vadik said as Danse nodded.
“Good, now i need an invoice” He asked as Vadik turned and whistled to Vincent, who came running over.
“What do ya need laddy? “ The Dwarf asked.
“Invoice for rescuing a Princess, and one for baby sitting a Princess” Vadik said as Vincent opened his rucksack and began feeling around.
“how do you know you'll get the right piece of paper?” Danse asked.
“This is an Infinite bag of holding, he just has to think about what he wants and…” Vadik was saying before Vincent pulled out two forms before handing them to Vadik, who passed them to Danse.
“gold? In gold bars?” Danse asked.
“No, you see where we come from it goes a hundred copper coins into one silver coin, and a hundred silver coins into a gold coin” Vadik explained as Danse nodded.
“Right so roughly seventy thousand bits?” He asked as Vadik nodded. “Buck… that's cheap for the type of job” He said before folding the forms and putting them beneath his armour. “Alright the deal is struck” He said producing a small crystal from his pocket and handing it to Vincent. “This is a signal crystal, you place I against my sister's body and it will signal me that you have found her” He said as Vincent nodded before putting it into his bag.
“Until we meet again Danse” Vadik said as the two bowed their heads, which Danse returned the gesture.
“Yes… ALRIGHT CARIBOU, MARCH NORTH!” Danse ordered as the army began to march, soon leaving only the recently freed slaves, Celestia and the Band of Mercenaries.
“Nymph can you open a portal to Ponyville?” Vadik asked as both Vincent and Keira burst out laughing.
“Um is that the place half a mile east of your house?” She asked as Vadik nodded. “Alright” She said inhaling her staff slightly into the ground before channelling her magic into it.
“What are you doing? Most of Ponyville most likely knows that you are a murderer” Celestia said to the man as she came out of the tent with a small folder.
“Do I look like a give a flying fuck?” He asked her without looking to her which caused her to frown sadly moments before a large gold portal opened up “Alright, everyone follow me through” He said as he stepped through the portal first.
(Ponyville)
“Are you bucking kidding me Rarity! Celestia told us a few moments after Twilight told us, that She was wrong and you still told Everypony!” Rainbow Dash shouted as the group were sitting down to have a picnic.
“Well what would you have me do? Not tell Everypony that Vadik is a murderer? Even if the princess is unsure?” She asked the cyan mare.
“Yes!, what if you are wrong and he is innocent? Did you think of that?” Rainbow Dash asked Rarity who frown and shook her head. “Right well we have to…” Dash was saying before a large booming sound cut her off. “What the Buck was that?” She asked looking around to see a large portal.
“Ah got ah bad feelin’ ‘bout this” Applejack said moments before Vadik stepped out of the portal in almost full plate save for his head, the armour on his form was coated in blood causing Rarity to look to Rainbow Dash moments before Dash and AppleJack darted towards Vadik in order to subdue him only to be stopped when a group of Ponies, Diamond Dogs, Zebras, female Caribou and bat ponies exited the portal shortly after him along with three other armoured figures and princess Celestia.
“What's going o… Barb!!” Twilight screamed as she teleported and hugged the Dragoness.
“Applebloom!”
“Sweetie!”
“Scoots!”
Several voices screamed before the mares were hugged by their siblings and friends, the commotion soon attracted the rest of the town folk, who quickly found missing loved ones and embraced them while avoided Vadik like the plague.
“I trust you to look after the others?” Vadik said to Celestia, who nodded hesitantly before Vadik, Keria, Vincent and Nymph made their way towards the Everfree.
“Vadik!” A familiar voice called out before the man was side tackled by a grey Pegasus mare.
“Ow” He groaned as he was bear hugged by a familiar crook eyed mare.
“Thank you for saving my Dinky” She said nuzzling him.
“Thank the other three more, I just mostly dealt with the slavers” he said as Ditzy looked at Keira, Nymph and Vincent with wet eyes.
“Thank you, I… I don't know what I would have done without my Dinky” She cried as Keria hugged her tightly.
“All in a day's work lass” Vincent said as he helped Vadik to his feet. “But we best be off before the town call the guard” Vincent recommended as the three other mercenaries nodded and headed into the forest.
(Several Hours later)
It was quiet around the tree house, Rainbow Dash had managed to move her house away which managed to allow a large amount of sunlight into the clearing, Nightmare Moon was busy explaining the different laws and history to Nymph in the lounge room, Vincent was currently behind the house digging a large tunnel into the rock wall for a reason that Vadik didn't know, Keira was carving up the Ria-gin and freezing large amounts of it for later and finally Vadik was in the forge fixing up his armour as it was loose during the battle they returned from.
“I see so the leather strap broke here… okay then” Vadik muttered as he removed the broken strap and replaced it before trying on the chest piece and stretching in it to see if it was loose. “Nope it's good now” He said removing the chest plate and placing it on a rack before exiting out of the forge to see a small group of people setting up tents in the clearing.
“Oi what's going on!” Vadik called out gaining the attention of the five individuals that Vadik quickly recognized as some of the people his friends and him rescued.
“H-hello sir, we were just setting up s-somewhere to sleep as the ponies were not pleased to see us and gave us the c-cold shoulder” a Diamond Dog female explained as Vadik looked at the group.
“Fine, pack up all of your stuff and come with me” He said as the ex prisoners quickly packed up and followed the man into the Tree house to find Nymph and Nightmare passed out with empty wine glasses in their hands. “You are kidding me” Vadik asked no one in particular before heading to a door that lead to a basement. Once he descended he discovered several beds already set up. “I get the feeling that Vincent knew” Vadik said as he stepped away from the doorway just as the five entered and looked around. “This will be temporary until Vincent and I can fix something up for you lot… but at least it is warm and dry in here, also there is a bathroom through that door and you are welcome to the kitchen” He said pointing things out.
“Thank you” they said suddenly hugging the Mercenary.
“If there is anything we can do to repay your kindness, please tell us” a Caribou Doe said as Vadik nodded before he managed to get free from the embrace.
“Sure, I'll think of something” He said before heading back up the stairs to see a dirty covered Dwarf standing on a stool washing his hands in the sink. “So I'm guessing you are digging out a cavern for our new guests?” Vadik asked as the Dwarf nodded.
“ai, thought they needed somethin’ after what they went through” Vincent said as Vadik smiled and patted him on the back.
“You have been thinking about Lelo again?” Vadik asked as his Dwarf friend nodded and sighed. “Go upstairs and shower, I'll take a look at your progress and get some lumber” He said as Vincent nodded and hopped down from his stool just as Keira came in with a large tray of meat.
“So seeing as the group of ex-slaves are gone, do I have to cook for them or not?” Keira asked.
“Yea they are downstairs” Vadik said as Keira nodded.
“Alright, so what do they eat?” She asked as she cleaned the blood off her hands.
“Well there are three Caribou and two diamond dogs” Vadik said as he sipped a glass of water “So three vegetation meals and two normal”.
“huh I thought there were more deers and dogs” Keira said as she opened the fridge and pulled out plenty of vegetables.
“There were but majority of the slaves were transported home… it's just that we can't really go home” a tan doe said as she entered the kitchen.
“And why not?” Keira asked as she looked the doe up and down.
“Because Ruby and Sapphire are daughters of the Slaver Boss so they would be arrested and imprisoned for his crimes, and Abi, Tay and myself lost our homes when King Daine executed our partners for the stupid reason of not putting us in our place” She said sadly as she looked down before she felt a hand on her shoulder causing her to look up at Vadik smile sadly at her.
“Well you lot are welcome to stay as long as you like” Keira said as she munched on a bit of capsicum.
“B-but we can't just leach off of you” She said.
“hmm how about you lot help with the cleaning and look after the place when we at out on mission?” Vadik suggested.
“So maids?” She asked as Vadik frowned.
“Yea stupid idea i…” He didn't get to finish before the doe stopped him.
“Deal” She said smiling softly “And my name is Triss” She said smiling as Vadik nodded before he was hugged again by the doe.
“What is with this place and hugging?” He asked causing Triss to blush moments before a loud knocking was heard. “And who could that be?” He muttered before approaching the door and opening it only to be tightly hugged b a familiar blue Pegasus. “Why are you hugging me?” He asked her.
“I'm sorry” Dash whimpered.
“For?” He asked confused.
“i tried to attack you before I realised that you rescued Scoots, I'm suppose to be the Element of Loyalty and look what I have done, I have distanced myself without talking to you… Princess Celestia explained your history to Ponyville… I'm so sorry” She said as she sniffled before squeaking loudly as Vadik wrapped an arm around the mare’s backside and lifted her up his form until she was face to face with him.
“Don't be sorry, it's the usual response when people hear of me, they run or beg for their life if they are not trying to hire my friends and Me, the fact that Celestia told you lot about my past without my consent annoys me but if it means that I won't get run outta town, then I guess it's fine” He said as his free hand moved her mane off her face. “And besides, I'm not going anywh…. Mmph” Vadik didn't get a chance to finish as he felt Rainbow Dash press her lips roughly against his causing him to blush brightly for a moment before she pulled away.
“May I stay with you?... just for tonight?” She asked him as Vadik looks over his shoulder to see both Triss and Keira smirking at him.
“Sure” He said as he walked inside and closed the door behind him.
Chapter 13 - Crystal Empire
“You two lovebirds have fun” Keira giggled as Vadik carried Dash to the staircase before he heard something that stopped him in his tracks.
“DRAGON!”
“Dragon?” Triss asked as she looked at Keira who was looking worried at Vadik.
“Keira, take Moon, Nymph, Dash, Triss and the girls upstairs” He said as he pried Rainbow Dash off of his chest.
“Wait, why?” Dash asked as Keira picked Moon up with ease placed her over her shoulder before she put Nymph over the other shoulder. “Vadik” Dash repeated as he placed her back on her feet and walked out the front door.
When Vadik got outside, he was greeted by the sight of three humans, one of them appeared lanky with neon blue wings and hair, a pair of sunglasses and was in a black suit with a small songbird stitched into it, next to him was a taller stockier man in a heavy fur jacket, heavy pants, black boots and wore a long silver chain around his neck that connected to a wolf’s head. His hair was light Grey and his eyes were yellow and lastly was a medium built man in a business suit that had a vest instead of a jacket, the sleeves were rolled up to reveal the same arm tattoos as Vadik. The man’s hair was white as snow, his eyes blood red and his canines extended.
“Ah there he is” The red eyed man said with a smile.
“Songbird, Wolf, Bat… why and how are you here? “ Vadik asked as he got into a stance.
“well simple, we have a problem, we have discovered L is planning to remake the Deadmen” the Grey haired man known as wolf said.
“You can't be serious, that's insane!” Vadik shouted.
“We are serious, and to how we got here, we got teleported by Songbird’s wife” Bat said pointing at the winged man who shrugged.
“wait, Songbird’s married?” Vadik asked shocked as the man nodded.
“Yea it's shocking, but it works as she loves to talk and well, Songbird doesn't” Wolf said as he laughed and the man in question flipped him off.
“Alright, so what's the plan?” Vadik asked just as a hooded man appeared between them causing the three to draw weapons.
“Relax you four, I come in peace” He said.
“Yea and you'll leave in pieces” Wolf growled.
“silence Lupus, Now I have come to invite you to a little competition” L said smiling.
“What kind of Competition? “ Bat asked.
“Well Lite, I wish to see how four of my new Deadmen face against four of the originals” He stated.
“When and where?” Vadis asked.
“Crystal Empire, within the next week” L said as Songbird flipped him off. “Oh I love you too DJ” He laughed before teleporting away.
“Crystal Empire, within the week” Vadik repeated as the other three nodded before Lite opened a portal. “I'll meet you lot there” Vadik said as the three nodded before they entered the portal and Vadik returned inside of the tree house to find Dash sitting on the couch waiting for him.
“are you free now? “ She asked as the man nodded before she floated over and took his hand, she then lead him upstairs and into his room before she locked the door behind them and pulled off her top and tossed it onto a nearby chair. “Um I know you probably wanna buck but I was hoping we could just sleep together as well… I'm still not one hundred percent comfortable with having sex with males yet” She said as he wrapped an arm around her waist and kissed her softly causing her to blush brightly and recoil slightly from the sudden embrace.
“That's perfectly fine Blue, I'm just gonna have a shower” He said removing his boots and socks while walking into his bathroom where he removed his top and placed it in a basket in the corner of the room before hearing the shower come on causing him to look to see Dash starting it. “Would you like to join me?” He asked asked she blushed brightly and nodded before she removed her sports bra.
“Yea… I kind of want to see what I have gotten myself into” She said blushing as Vadik nodded before removing his pants and boxers before stepping into the shower with Dash shortly following him half naked.
“Blue, your pants” he said causing her to look down and quickly step out of the shower to remove the rest of her outfit before she reentered the shower and smiled at him nervously as he smiled back and filled his hands with hot water and dropped it on her head.
“Hey!” She said annoyed as he chuckled and gently pulled her under the stream of water. “Really?” she asked.
“Well you're not going to get clean if you avoid the water” he chuckled as he grabbed a bottle of shampoo.
“Why do you have Shampoo if you are bald?” She asked.
“Well I need to wash my beard” He replied as he poured some of the clear liquid into his hands and massaged it into her mane as she frowned. “Sorry, old habits die hard” He said removing his hands as the mare punched him In the arm before washing the liquid from her mane.
“It's alright I guess, but I must ask, when did you get habits to do this?” Dash asked as she watched Vadik lean over her and let the water wash over his head.
“When Amelia was little, but I usually had shorts on” he sighed before the mare kissed him softly. “But we should finish up before someone goes off at us for using all the hot water” He said stepping out and wrapping a towel around his waist before grabbing another and handing it to Dash as she came out of the shower and wrapped her for in the towel as she watched the man exit the bathroom and got to his wardrobe and pull out a pair of shorts and a top.
“Um problem, my underwear is soaked so…” Rainbow was saying before Vadik gently tossed the top at her, covering her head. “That works also” She said as she removed the top to see Vadik walking passed her with the shorts on so she quickly dressed as he returned and turned off the lights. “Um I can't see” She said.
“Oh sorry” Vadik said as a small bright orb formed in his hand, illuminating the room. “Better?” He asked.
“Much” She said as she climbed into the bed where Vadik joined her and wrapped an arm around her body causing her to cuddle against his form and nuzzle his chest. “Night” She muttered.
“Night Blue’ He replied as he relaxed.
(Dream realm)
“Daddy!” a voice cried out causing Vadik to look around the darkness moments before the world came together to reveal a large throne room filled with heavily armored knights surrounding Vadik with halberds pointed at him.
“Please no” Vadik whimpered as he heard hearty laughter causing him to turn to the throne and see a large fat king holding a small red headed girl by her throat as he licked his lips. “please” he begged no one as he watched as his body moved on its own and activated his black started Fifth level before everything went white only to fade back to reveal everyone in the room was torn apart or frozen solid but what quickly gained his attention was where his arm was currently buried in, he could feel his heart stop as the sight of his arm shoulder deep through Amelia and the bastard that had used her as a shield.
“Da-addy? “ She asked before he head slumped down while Vadik simple stood there before he pulled his arm free and grabbed a tapestry, which he wrapped the corpse of his child in before he carried her out of the hall only to be confronted by a dozen knights who were quickly ripped apart by two hooded individuals.
“Dragon, where is she?” one said with Wolf’s voice before he noticed the tapestry “Shit, You used full release!” Wolf shouted as Vadik remained silent. “Monkey, burn it all!” He said as the other hooded figure nodded before fire surrounded his hands and he stepped passed Vadik and incinerated the entire throne room.
“Let's get out of here” Monkey said as a portal opened and another hooded figure came through.
“Come on, Songbird is about to level this place” the figure said with Bat’s voice as they could see a hooded man with large neon blue wings float into the sky with his arms wide.
“Alright” Wolf said as he was about to go before he noticed not moving. “Come on, you can mourn your failure later” Wolf said as Vadik dropped to his knees. “Oh for fuck sake” Wolf Growled as Monkey suckered punched Vadik in the temple, knocking him out.
(Real world)
“Fuck sake” Vadik groaned as he sat up from his bed and rubbed his temples, “What time is it?” he asked as he looked at clock and saw it was five. “Better get going” He said as he slipped out of the bed doing his best not to wake up the mare in his bed before he entered the bathroom.
As Vadik exited the bathroom, he was greeted by both Luna and Nightmare Moon. “We need to talk about your dream” Luna said as the man ignored her and pulled on a long sleeve top and grabbed a pair of long pants and pulled them on just as Luna grabbed his left arm. “Vad…” The mare started before Vadik whipped around, wrapped his right hand against her neck and slammed her against the wall.
“Don't you fucking enter my head again, I told you this once and I shall tell you again” He growled as he pulled her down so she was eye to eye with him.
“Vadik, we just want to help you wit…” Moon tried to say before she stopped when the man Glared at her and pointed his left index finger at her.
“I DON'T GIVE TWO SHITS ABOUT WHAT YOU WANT TO DO, YOU STAY OUT OF MY FUCKING HEAD AND MY DREAMS, DO YOU FUCKING GET ME!” He roared before releasing the night princess and grabbing a suit from his wardrobe which he put in his bag as long with a heavy jacket and a pair of spiked brass knuckles.
“But we care about you and want to help you get passed your gui. ..” Luna tried to say before Vadik unsheathed his sword and drove it half way into the wall by her head.
“Don't, I killed her, I murdered my daughter and I have to live with that so don't you dare try and change that” He growled as he moved to the door before turning to look at the two mares and noticed Rainbow Dash was awake and looking at him confused and concerned. “I'm going to the Crystal Empire to save your Fucking world” he growled as he exited the room and made his way downstairs only to have his arm grabbed causing him to rotate ready to shove the mare off him but stopped when he saw it was Vincent in a thick hoodie and cargo pants.
“So any idea where the Empire is lad?” He asked as Vadik nodded before the two left the tree house and made their way to Ponyville.
(Vadik house)
“Are you okay princess?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Yes, I believe he was just trying to intimidate me” Luna said straightening herself up moments before the door was kicked in and both Keira and Nymph stormed in with weapons drawn.
“What did you three do!?” Nymph demanded as the crystal on her staff began to glow red.
“Luna and I were trying to get Vadik over the guilt he is feeling before it consumes him” Nightmare said.
“Really? And how did you go about that?” Keira asked.
“We entered a dream that was causing him discomfort and well. ..” Luna said as she rubbed his arm.
“So you invaded his privacy and saw one of the secrets he only tells those he truly trusts… nice work” Keira growled as Nymph placed a hand on her friend's shoulder.
“Vadik would have told you in time, but the problem Is that you can't invade his privacy, fuck there are things he hasn't told Keira or me and we have been with him for the last two hundred and eighty years” Nymph said.
“Wait what? Two hundred and eighty years? That can't be right, Vadik Is nearly thirty” Rainbow Dash said confused.
“Try three hundred dear” Keira said crossing her arms as she implanted the sword she was holding into the ground. “he has a habit of say that he is younger to make himself more appealing to work with” She said.
“Yea and also he informs you when he trusts you completely” Nymph said crossing her arms.
“So question, are all humans able to live that long? “ Moon asked.
“No, just him as one, The Ancient Dragon Blood in him changed him to be able to be as strong as one but also extended his life to that of a Dragon’s, Also there is the fact he is a quarter Dwarf. .. you couldn't see it when you look at him but he is” Nymph explained.
“Yea Vincent is his grandfather” Keira added.
“Okay so how did you both become his trusted friends?” Dash asked.
“Well Doppelgangers don't live very long, when I first met Vadik, I was only a year old but I fell in love with his way of life so I join him and Vincent around when Vadik was twenty five years old but after five years, I was nearing the end of my life so I ran away from them because I didn't want them to watch me die… but they hunted me down and demanded answers which was when I told them only for Vadik to cut his own life in half and give it to me through an ancient ritual” Keira said smiling softly. “I have been by his side ever since.”
“Wow, and you Nymph? “ Moon asked.
“Short or long?” Nymph asked.
“Short” Rainbow said.
“I met him when he was one hundred, the group discovered that I was being married off to a powerful Tyrant to stop him from Invading my father's kingdom, Vadik intervened and fought the Tyrant in single combat before killing the man… unfortunately my father demanded that I was to marry him or it would be a sign of dishonor for my family and I would be killed to save the Family from dishonor… so we married and we worked out an agreement that every ten years we would either be together or see other people for a decade… we are currently in a off time at them moment… oh and I am also Amelia’s mother” Nymph said as the three mares looked at the Elf in shock.
“No way! “ Dash said in shock.
“Yes way” Keira said.
“Why don't you hate Vadik for killing your daughter?” Luna asked.
“Why because he used his full release to try and save her from a demi god who planned to rape and devour her? Yes he killed her but not on purpose, The Black Star full release can not be controlled by the user” Nymph said pulling up her shirt to reveal four inch thick scars in a line across her stomach.
“He did that to you?! Why?” Moon asked.
“A half of what are called the Dead Men, the men who have the Black Star, attempted to cleanse the world of non humans so they tried to kill the other five members a year ago… it was a brutal and bloody battle but the other Six won but Vadik had used the full release along with three others… so Myself and two other magic users used a special spell to calm them… but not before they got in a good hits, one of the other magic users died, another is now paraplegic and I have this” She said with a sigh.
“Why not just let it run out?” Luna asked.
“Because the Black Star rips the body apart when used, the higher the level, the faster and more damage is inflicted” Keira shouted.
“Anyway, enough talk, where is Vadik?” Nymph asked.
“He is on his way to the Crystal Empire” Moon said as Nymph and Keira nodded.
“Alright, well let's go and have you both apologize to him… he'll probably apologize for hurting you” Keira said as Rainbow Dash quickly climbed out if the bed.
“We should bring the Elements of Harmony” Dash said as Luna nodded.
“Good idea, Moon can you take Nymph and Keira to Canterlot while I take Rainbow Dash to get changed and gather the elements” Luna said as the other Alicorn nodded and teleported the three away. “So Rainbow Dash, why do you want the Elements to come?” Luna asked.
“I heard Vadik talking to someone out the front about fighting the new Dead Men in the Crystal Empire” Dash explained.
(Canterlot several hours later)
“I don't feel good” Vincent groaned Into a toilet. “Why did we have ta take a train?” He grunted as the pair made their way to the exit.
“Hey, it's better than portals” Vadik chuckled as they stepped off the train only to have a dozen royal pony guards waiting for them.
“Mr Vadik, you are to report to the Throne room, we shall escort you there” a Guard said to him as both me ignored them and began walking to another platform before several of the Pegasus guards flew in front of them. “This isn't a request” The leader of the Group said as Vadik grabbed him by his chest plate and lifted him from the ground as the rest of the guards went to draw their weapons to discover that the blades had been frozen to their sheaths.
“I am not in the mood to be ordered about, you little shit, so here is what you are going to do, tell your pretty little princess to go fuck herself and get her own life” Vadik said as the guard spat in his face.
“Buck you, you are coming with me or…” The guard didn't get to finish as he was slammed into the ground hard enough to create create a small crater before Vadik healed him and replaced his hand of the Guard’s chest with his boot.
“You really want to go down that road?” Vadik growled before glaring at the other guards. “I am going to the Crystal Empire to save your fucking world, so get the hell of my way before you wake up in hospital or never” Vadik ordered as the guards took a step back and Vadik removed his boot from the group's leader and walked with Vincent to the Crystal Empire platform and purchased two tickets.
“Celestia isn't gonna be happ’ matey” Vincent said.
“Since when is she ever fucking happy with me?” He asked his grandfather.
“fair point” Vincent said as the train came into the station and the pair bored.
“So apparently by what it says on the tickets, that this will be a twenty hour trip” Vadik said as they reached their room and entered.
“screw that” Vincent said pulling a potion from his bag and drank It moments before he laid down on one of the couches moments before falling asleep as Vadis sat on the opposite bench and looked out the window to see several dozen guards running to the station from the castle.
“This could be annoying” Vadis muttered as he got out of his cabin and made his way towards the front of the train, passing the first class area which was empty save for two unicorns, a navy blue stallion In a jumper and shorts and a pale purple mare in a summer dress. “Sorry to intrude” Vadik nodded to them as he went passed.
“Oh it's fine, wait is your name Vadik?” the Mare asked.
“Um yea, why… wait give me a second” He said as he forced the train driver’s door open. “Hey, mind getting this train moving” Vadik asked as the Driver turned to him and was about to protest before the man handed him a massive bag of bits.
“Right away sir” He said as he started up the train as Vadik exited the compartment to see that the first class to see It was actually an entire room fit for royalty.
“Why do I get the feeling you both are not the average noble?” Vadik asked as the laughed. “What?”
“We aren't noble son, in all honesty, we always go to buy business class on this train but seeing as one of our daughter's married the princess of love, and our other daughter became the princess of friendship… we are unwillingly showered in rewards” The stallion grumbled as his wife giggled.
“it's not so bad Night,” The mare said.
“Easy for you to say Velvet, I don't like going to the spa or going shopping… which she gets in free at the spa and most stores give her discounts In the hopes she mentions the stores to Twilight, Glimmer or Cadence” He groaned. “No discount for golf though”
“oh cheer up Night, anyway, so you are this Vadik that our Twilight has been going on about?” Velvet asked.
“How could you tell?” Vadik asked as he walked over to them and crossed his arms.
“Tall, muscular, bald, odd looking…” Night was saying before Velvet continued.
“Handsome, strong, mysterious… and what was that other word Twilight used?” Velvet asked tapping her chin.
“Sexy” Night said as Vadik chuckled and shook his head.
“Fair enough, so you are the mare’s parents? You know I'm curious if Twilight has informed you of her most recent discovery about me?” Vadik asked curious.
“That you are a mercenary that even though everypony thought you a mindless killer, you raided a slave camp and rescued everypony who was captured?” Night asked.
“I'll take that as a yes” Vadik said.
“So why are you going to the Crystal Empire Vadik? We are going to babysit our grandfilly” Velvet asked.
“Well long story short, there is a guy… well demon who goes by the name L, and he is planning to make a group of people incredibly strong so he can lay waste to the world” Vadik said as the two nodded.
“Okay, fair enough” Night said causally.
“And why are you not freaking out?” Vadik asked confused.
“Because there is a threat against Equis like once a year or six months… it's good that somepony is actually doing something and giving our Twilight a break” Velvet stated.
“Oh okay… well I best head back to my cabin and grab some sleep”He said pointing towards the door. “it was a pleasure Night and Velvet” He said bowing slightly.
“Yes it was Vadik” Velvet said as Night nodded before Vadik left the car.
(Canterlot Throne room)
“So let me get this straight Captain, you thought it was the best idea to spit in the face of a man who at the time was holding you off the ground, while you were in full plate, by one arm?” Celestia asked the Pony Captain, whose Armour was heavily dented, said guard simply nodded causing the Princess to close her eyes and pinch the sides of her nose. “You are dismissed Captain” She said as the guard bowed before quickly left the room before she turned her gaze to the group of ponies and two mercenaries in front of her. “Okay so let me get this straight, Luna invaded Vadik’s dream even after he said not to and in doing so, saw something that he keeps more guarded than anything else?” She asked as Luna nodded hesitantly. “And now he has gone to the Crystal empire to stop a person called L from remaking a group of ponies who he'll use to destroy the world?” She asked as Rainbow and Keira nodded. “Okay, here is my real question, Why was the group called the Dead Men and how could the members survive so long?” Celestia asked.
“Well the Black Star prolongs one's life inevitably once it is bound to a person so they can't die If toxins, disease, illness, hunger, thirst or age… the group was called the Dead Men as the men involved were all sentenced to be executed, most due to their crimes but the rest because of who they were… Vadik was there as he tried to murder the Paladin King who destroyed his clan” Keira explained as Celestia nodded.
“Alright, and also, is Amelia the only child that you and Vadik had Nymph? “ Celestia asked as the elf shook her head.
“No, we had two others, two sons... One died when the main religious group summoned their God, the Lord of light… Kyle was a Paladin of the Way of light but turned against them when the Lord of light tried to obliterate an entire city… Kyle used black magic to use his own soul as a weapon to slay the god.” Nymph said with a sigh “that was one hundred and fifty years ago, our other son is currently living on the eastern cost of our world's major nation with his husband and adopted daughter, his name is Sam” She said as Celestia nodded.
“I see, my last question, do you Intend on staying in Equis. .. If I were to offer you citizenship for you, Ms Keira, Mr Vincent, Vadik and you son and his family?” She asked as both Keira and Nymph looked at each other before back at Celestia with a skeptical look.
“Why?” Keira asked.
“One, having a powerful group of Mercenaries will help prevent Equestria from being attacked, two, I desire to better my friendship with Vadik, and Three, you seem to sate Discord’s desire for chaos” She said.
“We'll have to ask Vadik and Vincent” Nymph said as Celestia nodded.
“That is acceptable” She said.
(Crystal Empire)
“Aah! Dandelions!” Vincent shot up from the station bench and groaned before looking around to see he was in a city made of crystals in the middle of a frozen wasteland. “Ah how long was I asleep?” he groaned as he saw Vadik return in a black suit while straightening his tie.
“Morning” Vadik said as he stretched in the suit and nodded at his range of movement.
“Morning, how long was I out for?” He yawned as he stretched also.
“twenty five hours” Vadik said as he slung his bag over his back along with straight sword.
“you grabbed Kyle’s sword from my bag?” He asked as Vadik nodded and drew the sword, which produced a faint golden aura, several runes began to glow softly down the three foot blade. “You intend to kill L don't you?” Vincent asked as Vadik nodded.
“Yep, then he can't make anymore Dead men” He said as the dwarf hopped off the bench and grabbed his own bag.
“Alright, well where to now?” Vincent asked as a second human dropped down beside them, he had a long tan tail and vibrant red hair, he was in a similar suit to Vadik except he was missing a jacket, tie and shirt was open to reveal the Black star on his chest. “Hello Monkey, or should I say Dom?” Vincent asked as the man shrugged.
“Either is fine Vince, so the guys have booked the top three floors of the best hotel in the city” Monkey said pointing to a large building.
“why Three floors?” A voice asked from behind them resulting in both Monkey and Vadik drawing weapons and pointing then at a familiar group of ponies.
“Be a good little bunch of Horses and fuck off” Monkey growled as he pointed a glaive at the group.
“Dom… I know them… much to my annoyance… they probably want to help” Vadik said as the second Dead man’s weapon vanished into thin air and he straightened up.
“Right, so which one you fucking? Cause I know you mate and you'd would not defend them unless you cared about at least one of them” He said before noticing something. “Or Keira and Nymph could be in the group” He said darting into the group and wrapping his around the two individuals and lifted them off the group with easy.
“Dom, let them go” Vadik said sheathing his sword as the tailed man released the two women.
“Alright… what about this group?” He asked as Discord teleported in front of him only to be grabbed by neck and have a knife pressed against his throat.
“Monkey! “ Vadik shouted as the man shoved Discord away and began to lead them to the hotel.
“I really don't trust them” Monkey said as he walked next to Vadik, the two watched as the ponies were stopped by the people of the Empire. “Great and they are celebrities” He groaned as he continued to walk with Vadik as Nymph, Keira and Vincent caught up to them.
“Hey guys wait up!” Twilight said as the mane six, Nightmare Moon, Luna, Celestia, Barb, Discord and Eris ran after the group.
“We are not here for a social visit, we are here on business, we'll Dragon and I am, the rest of you are just slowing us down” Dom said as he continued walking.
(Hotel room)
“So you think that the new guys will be a challenge? “ Wolf asked as he sharpened a long sword.
“Maybe but I wouldn't put it past L to increase their abilities like he did with us” Bat said as sipped a glass of whiskey as he watched Songbird preen his feathers.
“Yea but seeing as we have all five of us, we just have to go level three and rip him and the new guys apart” Wolf said as he inspected the sword before he grabbed a bottle of oil and used it to clean the blade moments before they heard a commotion in the hallway.
“Do you ever shut the fuck up!” They heard Monkey shout moments before the door opened to reveal a very annoyed Monkey, who walked over and took the glass of whiskey from Bat’s hand and downed the drink.
“Monkey, what did we tell you about interruptions? This is why we paid for three entire floors” Wolf asked as the man flipped him off and sat on the couch next to him.
“Blame Vadik, they are his friends” The man said as he relaxed on the couch as Vadik entered the room with Keira, Nymph, Vincent and a bunch of unknown people.
“How are you Dragon? “ Bat asked as he poured Vadis a drink.
“Alright and you lot?” Vadik asked as Bat handed him the drink.
“That's good, but tell me why we have unwanted company brother?” Wolf asked.
“Hello my name Is Princess Cel. ..” The Princess started before she was interrupted.
“I wasn't asking you” Wolf said as he sheathed the long sword and walked over to the blue winged man who was humming. “Found him yet DJ? “ Wolf asked as the man gave a thumbs up and stopped humming.
“Alright, let's get going dead men” Lite said grabbing a silver rapier.
“Where are we going?” Twilight asked.
“You lot are staying, this is our business so we will handle it” Monkey said as Lite put on sunblock.
“The Crystal Empire is technically part of Equestria and seeing as I am the Co ruler of this nation so…” Celestia was saying before Lite moved in front of her and blew a pale blue gas in her face, resulting in her falling asleep seconds later.
“What did you do!” The ponies shouted.
“Relax, I used a sleeping gas, it's an ability for a Vampire Lord… she'll be awake in a couple minutes” Lite said as DJ walked over with a map. “Thanks, okay let's go boys” Lite stated before he opened a small portal above each of the of the Dead Men before it dropped down and teleported them.
“Nymph, why are these guys so aggressive? “ Luna asked
“Simple, there are few people they trust, they trust the three of us as are pretty much Vadik family so they see us as family to them as They treat each other like brothers… get one's complete trust and you get all of theirs” Keira said.
“Um Darling, why were they all wearing suits to a battle?” Rarity asked.
“The suits are made from a special silk that allows them to move freely and also is quite resistant to magic, the elements and projectiles. .. Also it makes them look professional” Nymph said.
“Alright, and what are they all?” Moon asked.
“Lite, or Bat is a Vampire Lord… roughly two thousand years old, Lupus or Wolf is a Werewolf who has full control over his transformation abilities, Dom or Monkey is a Human who got hit with wayward spell splicing his DNA with that of a actually monkey and lastly is DJ, or Songbird who Is a male siren whose voice box has a defect so his voice resonates at a frequency that will rip apart people… he has trained to be able to direct it and funnel It but he still dozen talk in case he accidentally hurts someone... He can also use his voice to shatter materials by vibrating it at a certain frequency” Nymph said as the group looked at her shocked.
“Yea they are really unique” Keira said.
“So how are we gonna do this guys?” Monkey asked as he looked at the large run down manner on the outskirts of the Crystal Empire while he gave his glaive a quick twirl before implanting the pommel into the crystal road.
“We can either just rush in and possible get ourselves killed or we could hide the energies of most of us if one of us unleashes level three, this gives us the chance for the four of us to ambush them.” Lite explained as Vadik began undoing his top.
“Alright just get ready for when shit hits the fan” Vadik said as he placed his fingers on the mark and channeled his magic into it his hand before all his tattoos began to glow a pale blue before a aura surrounded his body, forming long claws on his fingers and a long snake like tail.
“Remember, you only have fifteen minutes on that before you run out of energy” Lupus said, which Vadik simply nodded before he crouched down and launched himself at full speed at the house, collapsing the front of the house and catching the five individuals inside off guard.
(Apartment Building)
“So seeing as she is unconscious, do any of you have any questions?” Nymph asked as she pointed to Celestia, who had been placed on the couch.
“Well, why did you not continue being with Vadik?” Dash asked, which Nymph frowned for a moment and was about to speak before something gained her attention and she turned to look out the window.
“Oh no” Nymph said distressed.
“What is wro…” Luna started before a massive spire of fire and ice erupted from the edge of town.
“Oh no” Vincent said as he ran out onto the balcony and produced a pair of binoculars from his bag and inspected it.
“What is wrong?” Nightmare asked as she walked over.
“Vadik is using his Black Star… quite a high level of it also” Vincent said as Celestia sat up and yawned with a stretch.
“Fuck” Kiera growled just as a massive fire ball flew through the air and connected just near the Crystal Palace.
“Crap we have to protect the Crystal Heart” Luna said as Celestia looked outside just as Vadik came flying through the window and just missed her.
“Fucking… “ He growled as he got to his feet, light burns covered his arms and his top was gone and giving the mares a good view of his glowing tattooes along with the magic aura that surrounded his body.
“Vadik stop” Nymph said running in front of him, only for him to suddenly shove her aside moments before a torrent of wind slammed into his chest and sent him through the wall behind him while a while familiar pegasus landed in the room.
“Now looks who is strong?” Soarin laughed as rapid moving wing wrapped around his hands.
“Vadik!” Nymph cried in shock as the mares looked at Soarin in shock while Dash locked up.
“You are the weakling no…” He started before a spear of ice flew out of the hole and pierced the former wonderbolts’ chest and cause him to cough up blood before drop to his knees.
“You just don’t get it” Vadik said as he climbed out of the crater and walked towards his wounded enemy. “You failed to keep your cool in the heat of battle and proved to be overconfident” Vadik said as he grabbed the spear and channeled his magic into it, causing the wound to freeze quickly, which spread outwards rapidly.
“No wait, please have mer…” Soarin tried to say before he was turned completely to ice.
“No” Vadik said before ripping the ice spear free, shattering Soarin before Vadik collapsed to his knees.
“Vadik!” Dash and Nymph shouted as they ran over.
“I’m fine” Vadik said as he got up and walked to the edge of the balcony and looked over the edge.
“Wait Vadik, please stop using your Black Star” Keira asked moments before Vadik was spear tackled off the balcony by a burning blur. “Oh no you don’t!” Keira said as she went to jump after them, only to be surrounded in a golden aura and yanked back as Celestia took off after them.
(Near the Crystal Palace)
“Now there are no more interruptions” Solaris laughed as his entire body was surrounded with a burning aura with glowing red tattoos up his arms and the Black Star on his chest.
“Try me” Vadik said as he wiped the blood from his lips and charged forward at the Alicorn, who copied him. The pair connected in a burst of destructive force that send fire and snow in all directions as Vadik slammed his fist into Solaris’ gut before grabbing his head, which he followed by slamming his knee into Solaris’ jaw.
“Bastard!” Solaris said as his horn flashed, blinding Vadik temporarily before drawing a dagger and plunging it into Vadik’s unprotected gut before stepping back and kicking the man in the chest with an high amount of force and sending him into one of the legs of the Crystal Palace, cracking it heavily “There we go” Solaris smirked as he played with the blood coated blade in his hand as Vadik freed himself from the wall.
“That is cheap” Vadik said as he coughed up blood while Solaris smirked and teleported over to him and wrapped his arm around Vadik’s neck and placed the blade against his neck.
“Too bad” Solaris smirked moments before a golden beam connected with Solaris’ face making him drop Vadik and cover his eyes. “What the buck!” he shouted in anger as he was blinded as the rest of the mares and Vadik’s friends arrived.
“I should have taught you better” Celestia said as she walked forward. “I should have been your mother rather than your teacher… and i am sorry my child” Celestia said as she stepped towards the stallion as his vision cleared and snarled animalistically at the mare before teleporting in front of her and grabbing her by the throat.
“You are pathetic, you didn’t want me when you gave birth to me… you just wanted somepony to fill the void that you made when you banished you only other family… then coming here and giving me such a pathetic excuse… you disgust me” Solaris growled as he rotated the blade in his free hand.
“I know i failed you as a mother… but please i never wanted my baby boy to become a monster” Celestia said as tears filled her eyes. “I’m sorry”
“Buck off and die” Solaris said as he put the blade to her throat only to stop as a massive burst of magic and cold air burst passed him. He gave a confused looked to his mother, who was looking behind him in awe and fear so he dropped her and turned only to see Vadik get to his feet while the aura around him hardened.
“Vadik!” Dom shouted as Vadik rolled his shoulders as the crystal aura surrounded his body. It appeared like a statue before eyes formed on the surface and it’s mouthed opened to reveal a mouth filled with razor sharp crystal fangs.
“What is this?” Solaris asked before Vadik launched forward and slammed his knee into Solaris’ gut, causing loud pops and snaps to be heard from within the Alicorn before he was sent flying into the sky.
“Hey stop this” Lite said getting in front of Vadik, only for the man to grab his friend by the top and fling him into a nearby building before wings of energy sprouted his back.
“Is this full release?” Nightmare asked as Vadik took off after Solaris.
“No this is only level four” Lupus said before he looked to Songbird, who simply nodded before flaring his wings and taking off after his companion
“Oh my stars” Luna said before she ran over to her sister and checked her. “Sister why did you not tell me?” Luna asked concerned.
“I didn’t want you to know of my second greatest failure towards someone i love” Celestia as she looked away moments before Solaris landed hard against the ground nearby, followed by Vadik but before he could do anything, Dj landed between the pair with a deep blue flowing aura around his body.
“Guys, move!” Dj said in a surprisingly deep voice as Vadik growled while chips of crystal fell from his body.
“Oh shit!” Lupus said as he grabbed the alicorns and pulled them away while Dom and Lite pulled the others away as Vadik took flight and tried to fly over Dj, but that was what Songbird was waiting for as he took a deep breath and yelled at the top of his lungs as Vadik was over him.
The sound was deafening it cracked the crystal along the side of the palace, shattering all nearby windows and quickly shredding Vadik’s armour along with sending the man flying away into a hole in the castle. Once Dj stopped singing, he collapsed to his knees panting while he deactivated his Black star.
“Dj!” Lite said as he ran over to check his friend while Rainbow Dash took off after Vadik.
“Think i will go down that easily?” Solaris growled as he struggled to push himself up “I will kill you all!” He promised moments before Dom walked over and brought his glaive down on the Alicorn’s neck.
“Shut up” Dom said before walking away from the decapitated corpse and knelt by Celestia. “Nice save” He said with a smile to the mare as gently golden flames coated his free hand before he ran the hand over the distraught mare.
“What are you doing?” Luna asked.
“Checking for any injuries” Dom said as Rainbow Dash flew down quickly.
“He is gone!” She shouted gaining everyone’s attention.
“What do you mean he is gone?” Twilight asked confused as Glimmer Shield and Cadance looked at their ruined castle with dismay.
“I mean Vadik… he is missing!” Rainbow Dash said as she pointed to the hole that Vadik landed in.
“Damn it not again” Keira groaned before she transformed into a white feathered owl and took off.
“What do we do?” Rainbow Dash asked worried as Nymph channeled her magic into her staff and closed her eyes causing black energy to surround her staff before a smokey black raven appeared on the red crystal on her staff before it took off and vanished into the sky.
“I have sent out a Familiar to find him” Nymph said before she sat down on the sets and sighed.
(Outside the City)
“That was close” The tall dark green Changeling queen with a sickly aqua mane and tail panted with her hands on her knees, beside her was Sombra, who collapsed to his knees while clutching his wounded chest. “Star why did we have to get so close to the battlefield?” Chrysalis asked.
“Because i needed to be close by so i could absorb Mr L’s energy in it’s entirety… he was simply a scapegoat for us… and Solaris was becoming troublesome with his mommy issues” Star said with a shake of his head moments before his horn light up and created a large portal. “Come, the first phase of the plan is complete… let's go collect Shadow Storm and Tirak before we start the next phase” Star said before Chrysalis entered the portal.
“Master… i need help” Sombra groaned as he collapsed in the snow while the snow began to grow red around him.
“This is your own fault for trying to save Solaris” Star said before he entered the portal before it closed behind him, leaving a heavily wounded Sombra behind.
“Bastard… i’ll kill you” Sombra growled as he clenched his fist before he locked up as he suddenly felt hands on him.
“Listen to my voice, you will be alright” A voice said before darkness took the Unicorn.
Chapter 6 - (I am a total idiot...)
“We have to save her” Celestia exclaimed as the other members of the elements of harmony arrived.
“What's wrong?” Rainbow asked confused.
“The Nightmare is after Luna” Twilight said.
“Celestia it could be a trap” Vadik said to the distort Alicorn.
“That's why I am taking the elements of harmony” She said as her horn glowed.
“Wait, what about….” Vadik tried to say before she teleported with the six mares. “Me… fuck” He growled as a bright red flash occurred in his peripheral vision causing him to turn his head see a massive burning sphere where Canterlot was a few moments earlier. “Shit” he muttered before turning to a guard. “You!”
“Yes?” the stallion asked.
“Gather every single guard you can find and meet me at the station in half an hour” Vadik ordered.
“Why? You're not the boss of me” The stallion said crossing his arms moments before Vadik grabbed the stallion roughly by his mane and pulled him close to his own.
“Because you little shit, you serve this nation and your Princess,which now both are in danger so get all of the guard and meet me at the station so we can save both.” Vadik growled causing the guard to gulp before Vadik dumped him on the ground.
“Y-yes sir” The guard stuttered before running off as Vadik returned to Twilight’s castle to retrieve his bag and weapons. Once he arrived at the crystal castle, he was greeted by an Azural Mare in what appeared to be a wizard cloak, Hat and black armour, around her neck was a black amulet with a red gem in the middle and her eyes had red energy pouring from them.
“Well hello short, dark and adorable” The man said crossing his arms as the mare growled.
“The Great and Powerful Trixie is not Adorable” She growled as her horn glowed, forming a black crystal bladed staff in her hands.
“Now Trixie is it? I don't want to kill you” He said resulting in the mare laughing at him before blasting him with a powerful blast, which to her surprise only resulted in the man sliding back a few feet.
“What! HOW!” She shouted.
“Simple, i have ancient Dragon blood running through my veins and Ancient Dragons greatly immune to non elemental magic” He said as he removed the ruined shirt.
“B-but… Trixie doesn't know Elemental magic” She said moments before she let out a scream of pain and dropped to her knees holding the amulet. “P-please Master, Trixie will defeat him” She sobbed and grabbed her crystal staff but was unable to lift it resulting in her looking to see Vadik with his boot holding it against the floor.
“Let me help” Vadik said grabbing the Amulet.
“No!” She shouted out in a concerned tone as Vadik placed his free hand on her chest and tore the amulet from the mare causing her to fall unconscious while a intense pain ripped through Vadik’s causing him to throw the amulet away, not realizing that it hit a wall hard enough to shatter the gem in the trinket and release a ripple of energy.
After a few moments a dark grey Alicorn slightly smaller than Twilight, her mane was a light dusty grey and she was in ruined armour as she panted on her hands and knees. “What hath thou done thou miserable cretin?” the mare demanded as she looked up at the man, who was approaching her.
“Just freeing an obviously controlled Mare from the likes of a who're like you” He said with a smile before raising his armoured boot above her head. “Nothin personal doll” He said as he slammed his foot down, crushing the weakened Alicorn’s head which quickly burnt away along with the rest of her body leaving nothing left save for some ash and her armour. Once he dispatched the Alicorn, he returned to the unconscious mare and proceeded to pick her up and carry her to his room, where he removed her shoes and placed her under the covers before leaving the room to retrieve his gear from the study.
Once he had collected his gear, Vadik returned to the entrance hall and made his way to the train station to find not a single guard but instead found Discord laying on a pink cloud. “It took you long enough” Discord chuckled.
“I needed my equipment, where are the guards?” Vadik asked.
“Hiding with their families” Discord said resulting in Vadik to groan.
“Great, Now what?” He asked.
“Well I can take you and give you something to help separate the nightmare from the ponies” Discord explained.
“What's the catch?” Vadik asked.
“Why do you think there is a catch?” Discord asked slightly hurt.
“You are a Lord of Chaos” Vadik said Simply.
“Fair enough, well I don't want my best friend to be I danger as she has panic attacks.” Discord said.
“okay then why are you not helping?” the human inquired.
“They have a weapon that can kill me” Discord explained “but they don't have anything against you or even known of you.” He explained.
“Comforting” Vadik stated before taking a glance at the burning orb in the distance “Let's do this” He said moments before the sound of party poppers was heard and both Vadik and Discord vanished in a proof of confetti before reappearing in the Canterlot castle’s throne room in the same manner to be greeted with the sight of Celestia under a golden dome which she was sustaining with two of the elements of Harmony with her unconscious along with the mare known as Glimmer Shield contributing to the shield while the Pink Mare known as Cadence held her child close to her form. Looking up from the dome, Vadik was greeted with the sight of a hooded Pony sitting upon holding a interesting staff with a blood red gem in it’s head, to the pony’s flank was a sapphire blue Dragoness in a dirty torn platinum dress with her wings and muzzle bound, to the opposite of the hooded pony was two Alicorns standing tall and smiling at the sun deity’s predicament. The first was a black Mare with a flowing starry mane, her eyes were midnight blue and similar to that of a reptile, she wore Onyx plate armour with a sword strapped to her hip. The white alicorn stallion by her had a red burning mane and wore golden armour and was holding a Battle axe in his hand.
Currently blasting away at Celestia’s defense was a grey unicorn stallion with a blackened crown upon his head, red and black plate armour and strange red and black magic burning from his eyes similar to Trixie when she was possessed by the Alicorn. “Why haven't they noticed us?” Vadik asked.
“Oh I have placed us in a parallel dimension, we can see them but they can't see us” Discord said stretching as Vadik nodded before removing his chest plate, Weapons and Rucksack. “What are you doing?” The Chaos Lord asked.
“I am going to use the black star” He said getting onto his knees.
“The what?” Discord asked as a question mark literally appeared above his head.
“It allows me to triple my Strength, Speed, Mana, Endurance, Pain resistance, reflexes, etcetera “ He said moving his right hand over the mark and placed his fingers on each point of the five point star over his heart.
“And how is this possible?” Discord asked curious.
“It drains my life force and soul, each level is triple the multiplier but also triple the drain, also I kind of loose myself the higher the level” he said, the last part near a whisper.
“Okay then, just don't hurt the Black Alicorn Mare or the Dragoness and I shall look for my dear Fluttershy and her friends” Discord said before clicking his fingers as he suddenly vanished along with the rest of Vadik’s that he removed.
“Hey what is that?” the Hooded pony demanded as they pointed to Vadik.
“No idea but why is it half naked?” the white stallion asked as Vadik muttered a quiet incantation before rotation his hand resulting in all of his tattoos to glow bright blue and the temperature of the Hall to instantly shift from room temperature to that of the Crystal Empire.
Vadik didn't say anything as he got to his feet “ Solaris, Nightmare Moon, Destroy it” Hooded pony ordered as the White stallion charged at Vadik only to for the human to grab him by the muzzle and slam the shocked stallion into the ground but before Vadik could do anything further, Nightmare Moon blasted the human on the chest, sending him tumbling away as Solaris climbed to his feet.
“You’re fast and strong you colt of a whorse” Solaris chuckled wiping a little trail of blood from his nose. “But not fast en… “The Tyrant wasn't able to finish his sentence as he discovered a fist connecting with his jaw, Dislocating it moments before he was sent into the throne, shattering it completely.
“You'll pay for that for that Human” Nightmare growled as she drew her sword and took flight at the human, but she was caught off guard as he opened his hand and a massive blinding flash occurred, Blinding the queen of nightmares and causing her to fly into a Celestia’s Force field, knocking herself out completely.
“What? B-but how?” the Hooded pony asked as Vadik chuckled as he walked over to Nightmare and collects her sword.
“I activated a simple leach spell on Solaris when i slammed that white colt into the ground” Vadik said as he stepped over the white alicorn who was holding his jaw and rolling on the groin in pain. “and seeing an Alicorn’s body is strengthened by magic” he said grabbing the scepter in the pony’s grip and yanked It free while the pony was in shock. “I read about it in a book” Vadik stated before back handing the pony with the scepter resulting in him falling off the remains of the throne and for his hood to fall off the reveal a young grey unicorn stallion.
“Okay I give, you win” the Stallion said with a slight smirk.
“That's not how this works” Vadik said dropping the scepter and approaching the stallion, who attempted to stand only do Vadik to punch him in the face, knocking him down.
“Please! I surrender!” The stallion showed as the Dark grey stallion created a black crystal wall between the two.
“Master, the plan has gone wrong, Summon the Nightmare and let's…” the Dark grey stallion was saying until Vadik grabbed his head and slammed it against the Crystal, Shattering the wall and knocking him out.
“Ah I see your plan now” Vadik said as he placed a boot on the stallion’s chest and held him down. “But you shall never Achieve it” Vadik said raising the sword above to plunge into the stallion when he was blasted in the side of the head causing him to cry out before he was grabbed and thrown across the room.
“Princess what are you doing?” a Voice asked as Vadik regained his senses and saw Celestia standing between Vadik and the Stallion with a golden Greatsword in hand.
“I can not, Shall not allow you to kill my pupil Vadik” She growled before glancing at the grey stallion on the ground. “ He can be saved from the darkness, and I won't let you kill him” Celestia exclaimed moments before a door was blown open and black smoke filled the room before fading to reveal a tall red cloaked creature with Sombra over one shoulder and Solaris over the other.
“Master we have to go” the Creature said in an echoed voice before swatting Celestia into Vadik.
“Yes, Thank you Nightmare” The stallion said as the four disappeared leaving Nightmare Moon and the blue Dragoness behind.
“What the fuck has gotten into you, you fool” Vadik said shoving the Alicorn off of him and glaring at her. “I could have ended all of your problems within two days of being here, but now they will be ready for me and this shit will go on for a long time” He growled as he snapped the sword in his hand like a twig in frustration.
“How am I a fool you brute” She hissed back at him.
“Because you are stupid enough to let the man who is the master of all your problems live and also for attacking me” He growled back at her.
“He is my student and I will not let you murder him or anypony else” She yelled back.
“Then why the fuck was I even hired if you didn't want them dead? You know what, don't fucking answer that I am done, if you refuse to kill him and risk your kingdom then that is your own problem” Vadik said as Discord appeared with Rainbow Dash, AppleJack, Fluttershy and Pinkie. “Discord can you teleport me to Ponyville?” He asked.
“Okay” Discord said clicking his fingers before the man turned into confetti and vanished. “Tia mind telling me why our friend was angry?” Discord asked as Celestia sighed.
“It isn't important, Girls it is time to banish Nightmare Moon again” She said as they looked to see where the Alicorn Was only to see she was gone. “Tartarus” Celestia growled.