Chapters Carpe Diem: Rise of the Sun
Authors note: This is a side story i'm doing for when I have writer's block. I will try to update it often if it gets good reviews. Sorry for any grammatical errors, I've edited it as best I can, i'm not perfect.
His chains clinked against each other in the moonlight. The unicorn was shivering in the corner of his cell, fresh wounds forming puddles of blood beneath him and his breath wavered with each exhale. His golden yellow coat was matted with blood and littered with various types of scars with a chipped hoof on his left side. His mane, a deep brown, was wet with sweat and caked with blood. Chains were wrapped around each leg and one around his neck that was crushing his throat and scraping against it. He heard footsteps coming down from the hall that was just outside his cell, and with each step his anger grew. A shadow covered the only exit to his cell followed by a scraping of metal as a bowl of slop was slid into his prison. The pony couldn't see his visitor, the moon light was in the wrong position, but he knew who it was.
“Eat up pony. You’ll need that energy for tomorrow.” A male voice said and laughed. The shadow then left.
The pony ignored the mushed up…whatever it was and laid his head down, letting his horn scrap against a dent in the stone wall of his cell. He had been digging away at this dent for his entire imprisonment and had only made a 5 inch deep dent at most. The digging had caused his horn to chip in a few places and had become fairly dull as well. He looked up through the window that was a good 6 feet up and dreamed of what it would be like outside. He was so caught up in his dream that he barely noticed sun rise and the cheering that came with mid-day. He was dragged from his dreams when his captor approached his cell. The beast was half lion, half goat, with a serpentine tail. Its body and head were that of a lion, its right front legs were sort of bird like and ended in claws, but its back legs were goat hooves with large horns on top of its head.
“Get up unicorn. “ The beast said, opening the door. The pony didn’t move what so ever.
“Leave me be Chimera.” The pony said, turning away from it. The beast stormed inside and lifted his tail up; it had a whip like extension with a blade on it that ripped through the pony’s flesh as it came down on him.
“Up pony!” the beast demanded. The pony lifted himself up and the beast used its claws to unlock him from his chains, except for the one around his neck. The Chimera dragged the chain with its tail and tugged the pony behind him. The pony followed down the hall and into an arena. It was a large, circular arena that was covered in sand. Slightly above the arena were stands where various creatures were sitting and cheering as the pony came out of the underground. The chain around his neck was released and a door closed behind him as the door on the opposite side of the arena. A terrible, loud screech came from the other side and a 6 foot tall beast came out. At first glance, it appeared to be a dragon but with only two legs the pony knew it was a cousin of the dragon. It had two great wings for arms and a large dragon like head with a long tail. The beast was a Wyvern and the pony knew it was either him, or the creature. The beast tried to fly up but a strong chain wrapped around its leg kept it from flying too high. His life as a Gladiator was filled with these sort of creatures. The pony was forced to battle these creatures and kill them, or be killed by them. His captures where a clan of Chimeras that ruled in a remote part of the world. They entertained other creatures, mostly Griffins with these sick little battles to the death.
“Go get it pony!” said a voice from the crowd. Cheering ensued and the Wyvern landed back down.
The pony shook his head and ran towards the Wyvern, better to get it over with. The creature roared and lifted its foot, slashing its claw at the pony. The pony dodged and rammed his horn into the Wyvern’s foot. The creature roared in pain and flapped its wings to keep upright, but fell over anyway. The cheering intensified and Wyvern roared and screeched as it scraped against the ground trying to get up. The pony stood on its chest and pointed his horn towards the beast’s throat the battle was quick, but the pony had gotten so good at winning that his captors were putting bigger and bigger opponents against him to make the fights longer. The chimera that brought the pony into the arena quieted the audience and stood on a pedestal overseeing the arena.
“What do you say pony?” The chimera asked. The pony didn’t answer, anger was swelling within him and his breathing was getting heavy. The Wyvern was breathing hard as well and as their eyes met, the pony knew what they were both thinking. The Wyvern was riddled with as many scars as the pony had and it was obvious both creatures were near their breaking point.
“Well?” The Chimera asked standing still.
The pony leaped off the Wyvern’s chest and the beast stood up, roaring at the Chimera. The Chimera backed away in fear while the pony stomped on the chain holding the Wyvern down. He kept stomping until he noticed the lock to the chain around the Wyvern’s leg. He rushed towards it and used his horn to pick the lock. The chain fell and the Wyvern flew up into the sky, spitting fire out into the audience. The heavy chains fell on top of the pony, which didn’t have the strength to lift them off of him.
“If he gets free…that will be enough.” The pony whispered to himself. He had never fought this Wyvern in the arena, but he knew the creature was as broken and longing for freedom as he was. The pony’s weakness overtook him and he fell unconscious as fires broke out all around him…
The pony opened his eyes and was briefly blinded by the sun. Once he adjusted, he felt the soft grass beneath him, and could hear the small stream that wasn’t too far away. A frog croaked some distance away and a bird called out to its mate in a nearby tree. The pony smiled softly, surely he was dead. Oh well, if he was, at least he died and went somewhere beautiful. He sat up a bit and looked around. It had been so long since he felt grass or heard a bird sing, that his surroundings seemed alien to him. He knew he could eat the grass if he was hungry, but he worried that it wouldn’t taste like the slop he was fed in his prison. He also knew that he could drink the fresh water if he became thirsty, but it wouldn’t be murky or dense like the water he received back at the arena. He wondered why he should fear these things, he knew they were better for him and what he’d been dreaming for but something held him back.
“You’re awake.” A voice said from behind him. The voice sounded like it was far away, yet nearby at the same time. He whirled around so fast he almost broke his neck. He saw they Wyvern, lying in the grass just feet away. Its long tail wrapped around its body and its wings were tucked in. If he lay still enough, and maybe hid his head a little, the creature looked like he could blend perfectly well in to the forest as a tree trunk or maybe large rock.
“Oh, you died too eh? I’m sorry.” The pony apologized. The Wyvern laughed but didn’t move or even open his mouth.
“We’re not dead unicorn, we escaped. After you collapsed, I picked you up and carried you here.” The Wyvern explained, again his mouth did not move.
“We’re free? Hah! We’re free!” The pony yelled and started running around the clearing they were in, yelling and cheering. He jumped over logs and rocks and kicked his back legs up in excitement. The Wyvern laughed and watched the little pony run about.
“Thank you Wyvern…” The pony finally said as he calmed down. His muscles ached and a couple of his wounds opened up, but those were small matters compared to freedom.
“I must thank you, little unicorn. If you had not unchained me I would have been killed.” The Wyvern said and leaned his head down to look the pony in the eye.
“Well, if it wasn’t for you carrying me out, I wouldn’t be free right now. I suppose we owe our freedom to each other.” The pony said.
“I suppose we do. My name is Diem.” The pony replied. The Wyvern nodded.
“My name is Freyr.” The Wyvern said and moved his wing, stretching it a little then using his tail to pick himself up. “So, little unicorn, what will you do with your freedom?” Freyr asked as his tail swept across the floor.
“I’m not sure.” Diem replied. He thought for a moment, and then looked up. “I do have a question, how are you talking? Your lips aren’t even moving.” Diem knew it was an odd question but it was bothering him.
“My language would only appear to be roars and growls to you, so I am translating it with my mind into your mind. I can do this with anyone I please.” Freyr replied and stretched his wings again.
“That is amazing.” Diem said then smiled, for the first time in years, he smiled. It actually almost hurt to smile. The muscles had not been use in years and he couldn’t hold the smile for long before his jaw began to hurt.
“Come Diem, I believe I know a land where you will be happy.” Freyr said, turning towards the west. “It is the least I can do, to repay you for my freedom.”
“Dear friend, if anyone owes anyone here it’s me. You could have saved yourself and yet you took me with you.” Diem replied and followed alongside the giant reptile.
“Well then, consider this a gift.” Freyr replied. “It is a land called Equestria, many ponies like you live there.” He explained
“I’ve never heard of it. How do you know of such a place?” Diem asked. His stomach growled, forcing Freyr to stop.
“Go ahead and eat. Before my capture, I would speak with the dragons that migrated to my lands. They talk a lot of Equestria and the ponies that live there. They say it’s a fairly pathetic place but of course the dragons are very prideful creatures.” Frery explained while Diem munched on the grass around him. He couldn’t remember the last time he tasted anything like grass. It was juicy and a little crunchy and very sweet. Once he had filled himself with it, he felt like he could gallop to Equestria no matter how far it was.
“Right then!” Diem said and shook himself out. “We’re not going to find out what kind of place this is if we just sit here.” He reared up and then started galloping through the forest with Freyr close behind.
Carpe Diem: Rise of the Sun
Author's Note: Again this is just a side story, the grammar may be poor as well as some of the descriptions. I apologize.
The sun had raised high above the trees, slowly heating the earth to ungodly temperatures. Freyr was enjoying the heat against his scales but Diem was having trouble. The heat made his wounds unbearable and some even began bleeding again. The unicorn finally couldn’t move any longer and collapsed on the trail. The pair had journeyed into a deep forest with long, soft grass. Freyr stopped as his companion fell. He opened a wing and held it over the small unicorn, creating shade until he could survey the land for a suitable place to rest. They had been following the stream, which had now turned into a small river, and larger trees were able to grow along its quiet banks. A willow tree stood close to the bank with its thick branches arching over the river. Freyr nudged Diem gently with his muzzle.
“Come little pony, you can make it a few more feet.” Freyr said. Diem Groaned and forced himself to his hooves.
Using his tail, Freyr kept Diem steady as they made their way into the shelter of the Willow tree. It was cool under the cascading branches, a family of swallows had made their nests in the trunk of the tree and they were not enjoying their visitors. Freyr’s dragon-like appearance would make any woodland creature uneasy but Freyr had his mind on other things. Diem was hurting badly and losing blood at an alarming rate. One of the challenges of being a wyvern is the lack of hands. He clumsily tried using his wings to scoop up water for Diem but while his wings held a lot of water, they were pretty much his balance so he kept falling over. He finally gave up that idea and exited their natural hide out to find something suitable to hold water with. He walked up to a nearby redwood tree and used his large claw to rip off a sizeable portion of the bark. The shape and power of his leg curved the piece a bit into a bowl like shape. It took a little to make sure it didn’t break but once he finally got the bark off. He picked up his creation in his mouth and carried it back over to the river, filling it up with water and carefully dragging it back to Diem. The bark was about half Diem’s size and slowly losing water considering it wasn’t a perfect bowl. Diem forced himself to drink what he could while Freyr gathered large leaves from various trees and brush, which he used to bandage Diem’s wounds. It was a clumsy fix but it was best he could do.
“Your wounds are severe. We would do better to be in a town.” Freyr said, squatting down like a roosting bird.
“Do you know of one nearby?” Diem asked weakly.
“Sadly, no. I have not been this far west before. I do, however, know that Minitors roam these lands. They’re brutal creatures but friendly enough.” Freyr replied.
“Well…if anything…you can always…scare them…into letting us in…” Diem said between pain filled breaths. He managed a small chuckle and Freyr smiled slightly, showing his large fangs.
“Well at least your spirits haven’t fallen.” He said then his smile faded. “Diem, you do realize that this journey could be the last you ever have.” Freyr said as he looked over his friends’ wounds.
“Yes Freyr, I know. I owe this to my family though.” Diem said. Freyr tilted his head.
“What do you mean?” he asked, laying down on his chest to listen closer to the pony.
“When the Chimeras captured me, they took my family as well. We lived simple lives in a forest far from here. My mother used her unicorn powers to make pottery that we sold in a nearby town. My father worked at the general store the mayor owned and my older brother and I worked at the flour mill. We got measly salaries but we managed. That’s when they came… “ Diem said and slammed his hoof into the ground.
“The Chimeras and their hoard of Griffins attacked our town. My brother and I were working in the mill when we heard screams coming from town. We rushed out to see what was going on but half the town was already on fire and ponies were running around, trying to escape. We rushed out to find our parents but it was already too late; my mother was buried under a pile of her wares and my father had died beside her. My brother and I tried our best to fight the plunderers off but I was captured. Just as I was taken off the ground by a Griffin I saw another Griffin land on top of my brother and stab him in the chest with one of their claws. “Diem paused from his story to fight back tears that threatened to burst from his face. Freyr waited patiently for the unicorn to continue.
“That’s when I was taken to the arena. I spent five years in that hell hole… I owe it to my family to get to Equestria, to find a land where I can be free, and some day, I’ll take my revenge.” Diem said. His eyes grew dark as his anger welled within him.
“Revenge will get you nowhere Diem.” Freyr said.
“It’ll give me peace.” Diem replied and laid his head down to rest.
“You make think so young unicorn. Perhaps Equestria will decide otherwise.” Freyr said to himself and moved away from Diem to let him rest in peace.
As night fell, Diem woke to the sound of an owl grabbing a rodent nearby. Freyr was gone and the darkness had taken over. Made himself as small as possible to avoid any predatory eyes that might be looking for a small pony to munch on. A twig snapped. He whirled his head around trying to see through the darkness. A pair of bright yellow eyes gleamed in the darkness. Diem stood and kept his horn pointed towards the eyes, he casted a light spell, which made a dim light that only illuminated five feet in front of him. The eyes came closer and a claw stepped into the light. Then, the dragon like jaw and wings came into view, and finally Frayr walked into the light.
“Calm down Diem, it’s only me.” Freyr said with a soft chuckle. Diem sighed and fell back onto the ground.
“Sorry Freyr, I’m not use to living in a forest, so anything freaks me out.” Diem said.
“I understand. Have you eaten anything?” Freyr asked. Diem nodded.
“Here and there yes” He looked up at his companion then looked away. “Seems you have as well.” He said indicating the blood stain on Freyr’s lips. Freyr licked the blood away quickly.
The pair stayed awake for a few hours, simply staring into the darkness. They stared at what they felt was the river, both contemplating their journey so far. Diem’s wounds healed over and he forced himself to eat more of the grass while they listened to the sounds of the evening. Diem kept the light spell going so they could ward off any unwanted visitors.
“Freyr, You never mention your family or anything.” Diem said finally.
“Wyverns live in packs but we don’t have hard family ties. Our mothers lay their eggs and move on. When we hatch, we may end up in the same flock or possibly not so we don’t worry too much about family. I myself lived in a flock with no blood relatives of my own.” Freyr said, scratching the back of his neck. Diem nodded, and remained quiet for a while longer. He finally spoke again after what seemed to be hours.
“Freyr, If I should fall during our travels…I give you my flesh to consume.” Diem said. Freyr didn’t respond, and didn’t speak again for the rest of the night.
Carpe Diem: Rise of the Sun
ch.3 The Minotaur City
Just a short chapter this time everyone, sorry. I'm not getting much feed back so I don't know if I should keep writing
Morning came and Diem and Freyr were already well on their way to the Minotaur city. The forest had melted away long ago and now large grasslands lay before them. Diem’s injuries hadn’t improved much but the rest and well deserved sleep had given him new energy to press on. Freyr could see the labyrinth city in the horizon. The city it’s self was actually a labyrinth and in its center was a battle dome where citizens fought for pride, honor, money, women, whatever.
“Do you think the Minotaur will greet us with open arms?” Diem asked as he trudged through the tall grass.
“If you were going in alone? Probably not.” Freyr said in a painfully honest tone. “They respect the Wyvern though so leave the talking to me.”
“Will do.” Diem said and chuckled lightly. Birds fluttered off as they passed, leaving behind nests of eggs and chicks. Diem avoided the nests as best he could and looked up through the grass (which was a good foot taller than him) to Freyr who was keeping his stare straight ahead.
“Why are you coming on this journey with me anyway?” Diem asked.
“I owe you my life and freedom.” Freyr said simply. Diem shook his head and chuckled as they traveled on.
They reached the beginnings of the Labyrinth City, as it was called, by mid-day. Minotaur were wondering the streets carrying bales of hay on their shoulders or dragging along carts full of various vegetables. Freyr and Diem walked carefully through the city streets, receiving awkward looks and getting bumped into by citizens that couldn’t care less who they ran in to. A Minotaur dragged his heavy cart full of turnips across Freyr’s tail. It didn’t actually hurt him, but he roared to let the bull know what he had done. The Minotaur snorted and growled at Freyr and scrapped his hoof against the cobbled ground, lowering his horns in a threat. Freyr opened his mouth, showing the long fangs that filled his mouth, and allowing fire to spill out. The fire was a mix of lava like drool and normal fire. Freyr’s eyes went from lizard like to pure, bright white. It was a natural threat response that forced the Minotaur to back down and walk about before he or his crop caught fire. Freyr went back to normal and turned to Diem. Diem looked a little more than frightened as his companion returned to normal.
“Sorry about that. The thing about confronting these creatures is making sure you know you’re scarier than they are, even if you’re not.” Freyr explained. Diem shook that imagine out of his head and continued out towards the middle of the city.
They continued to get strange looks and snide remarks from the side. The city gave off mixed views about its personality. On the one hand, it was a happy sort of farm-driven society that seemed pleased to welcome new comers. The, once you turned the corner, you were greeted by snorts and grunts of blacksmiths and heavy drinkers that would have preferred to pick a fight with you than sell you something. Freyr finally led Diem to the middle of the city where the Battle Dome along with the council hall and other political buildings that helped the city run. A Minotaur dressed in fairly decent clothes with expensive looking jewelry in his hair and an expensive gold nose ring in his nose stepped up to Diem and Freyr, blocking their path.
“My name is Thalmone; I am the Mayor of this city. News of your arrival has reached me and I wanted to greet you personally.” The Minotaur said. Diem kept his head low and let Freyr respond.
“We are travelers from a few days walk east from here. We escaped the Chimera City as gladiators. We travel to Equestria and are just passing through.” Freyr said, bowing his head. Diem copied and waited for someone to speak again.
“I see. Gladiators eh? Even that little pony?” Thalmone asked nodding to Diem. Diem snorted angrily but was tapped by Freyr’s tail as a sign to keep quiet
“Yes, Lord Thalmone, in fact Diem had me dead to rights but spared me.” Freyr replied. He made Diem seem strong but not strong enough to possibly take on any warriors that lived there.
“Well we don’t get many visitors here. How much can you pay for room and board?” Thalmone asked, stroking his nose ring to signify the city’s attraction to wealth and money.
It was true the Minotaur city was obsessed with wealth; Gold murals and statues decorated with precious stones littered the streets. Multiple stores carried fine jewelry and very expensive armor and weapons.
“Unfortunately, we do not have any money.” Freyr said. He knew what was coming next.
“Then I insist you and your friend join in our games tonight.” Thalmone said placing his hand on Freyr’s wing and Diem’s head and led them towards the battle dome.
Carpe Diem: Rise of the Sun
Night had fallen and large torches had been lit in the dome to provide light for the hundreds of Minotaur that had filled the seats and were stomping their hooves and snorting with excitement. Diem looked out from their holding area. It was a cage with a tunnel that led down to the depths of the arena where competitors were held. Across the circular arena another cage that was dark and showed no signs of life.
“Was this part of your plan?” Diem asked, glaring at Freyr.
Freyr lightly tilts his head to Diem as they both continue to look through the door. “The Minotaur love competition almost as much as winning.” Freyr said and looked towards the arena. “They don’t respect you, much less notice you, if you’re not strong. I figured they would try something but their arena is brutal.” He added. He seemed troubled as the small light from a hole in the thatch roof of their cage glistened off his brown scales and shined in Diem’s eyes. Diem snorted in annoyance.
“What are we fighting?” he asked, trying to see the other side.
Before Freyr could reply, a large Minotaur, about the size of Freyr, with a heavy spear nearly twice his size came climbing out of the slope on the other side and snorted heavily, Diem’s eyes widened in terror, and then quickly turned his head to glare at Freyr
“We have to fight that!?” He asked, yelling at the top of his lungs. The chanting from the stadium boomed and the audience’s stomping thundered. All of it drowned his voice out as soon as it left their cage..
“That’s what you have to fight.” Freyr said, lowering his head slightly and nudging the golden unicorn pony out into the arena.
“Of course.” Diem mumbled. He was feeling weak from his wounds and the traveling.
He stepped out into the light of the torches and faced the beast in front of him. The stadium roared in cheers and hoof stomping while Diem and the Minotaur circled each other. Diem’s heart raced as the memories of the Chimera City flooded his mind. He could almost hear his chains rattling behind him and the sound of the whip they had used to make him tougher. They had laughed at him for not having a cutie mark like most ponies, and continuously whipped the area where one should have been. It wasn’t his fault; he had just been developing into a young pony when they captured him and was only just trying to decide what his talents were. With the scars on his flank he didn’t think a mark could ever appear there and had stopped striving to find his talent. All he cared about now, was surviving.
Diem felt the earth shake, bringing him back to reality as the Minotaur circled him. Diem kept his eyes and horn pointed at him and waited. If he made the first move, there was a chance this beast would have enough time to prepare a counter attack. On the other hand, if his opponent made the first move, Diem was small enough and quick enough to get out of the way. For now, that was his best choice. The Minotaur knew the options on the table as well but his blood thirst got the better of him and he attacked. His spear was poised to run Diem through in one fell swoop. The Minotaur charged at a break neck speed, Diem barely had the chance to move out of the way and the spear tip grazed his left shoulder. Diem rolled out of the way, leaving a trail of blood behind him and kicking up dirt. Cheers thundered through the stadium and various food items rained down on the fighters. Diem was hit by half a head of lettuce which fell apart as it hit his body. Diem reared, charging at the Minotaur was trying to turn around.
“He’s too heavy, too slow.” Diem thought as he charged. He neighed loudly and jumped into the air, aiming his chipped horn at the Minotaur’s face. If he calculated this right, just as the Minotaur turned, his horn would pierce his neck and the battle would be over. As he soared through the air, Diem failed to notice the Minotaur’s arm rise up with an amazing speed. The Minotaur’s fist, which was nearly the size of Diem’s head, slammed into his side and sent him flying through the air, hitting the wall that acted as a barrier between the players in the arena and the audience. Pain surged through Diem’s body as he fell back down to the dirt. Blood spewed from his muzzle along with other bowel contents. He stood up slowly, dizzy from the hit and his exhaustion, he stumbled forward towards the Minotaur who had completely turned around and was poising his spear for a throw. There would be no way for Diem to avoid it in his current condition. He closed his eyes and waited as the Minotaur let his spear fly through the air as Freyr rushed out of the dug-out and flew with claws out to the Minotaur.
The arena was quiet and still. Diem could only hear the sound of the spear tearing through the space between him and its owner. Memories of him and his family together in their small village swarmed through his mind. He could see his Mother, Father, and Brother smiling happily. His Mother would be covered in clay and smell like earth while his Father would have the same tired smile on his face. His brother would run over and pin him down; messing up his mane and laughing while flour and plant material fell off him and onto the floor of their home. The memories faded as he opened his eyes and saw the spear tip only inches from his face. He gasped and clenched his eyes shut but when he didn’t feel the sting of the spear he opened his eyes again and saw that the spear was still inches from his face and glowing a slight yellow. He stepped back and finally noticed the feeling of magic filtering through his horn.
The arena was quiet as the magic failed and the spear dropped to the ground. Freyr had the Minotaur pinned down with a giant claw on his chest. Diem dropped to his knees and panted heavily as the adrenaline and shock pumped through his body. His vision blurred and he felt like he was going to throw up. He had only ever used magic a few times at home, his brother had been better at it than him and the most Diem ever lifted was a few pots his mother made or a couple of books when cleaning. A spear, hurdling towards him, was something he never even thought he could manage. The feat had drained him and he had just enough time to look up and see Freyr walking towards him before blacking out entirely.
Carpe Diem: Rise of the Sun
Diem woke in a plush bed of hay and soft warm blankets as rain thundered outside. He was in a small room with a window that overlooked the Minotaur city. In the distance he could see a mountain range and a vast, unforgiving land in between. He looked around the room and saw only a table by his bedside with water and bandages. His head throbbed and the room spun around him as he moved around. He clenched his eyes shut and waited for the pain to go away before opening them again. When he did, the door to his room opened and a young Minotaur walked in with a bowl of soup. She smiled at Diem and set the bowl down on the table. She was in a simple brown dress that matched her fur. She had earrings in her ears that dangled and clinked together making soft sounds like bells.
“Can I get you anything little Unicorn?” She asked. Diem tried to sit up but a gut wrenching pain shot through his body, forcing him to go numb for a bit then fall right back down.
“Are you alright?” The Minotaur asked. Diem groaned in pain and sighed once it had subsided.
“I’m alright. What happened?” Diem asked. The Minotaur picked up the bowl of soup and filled the spoon, holding it to Diem’s lips. He turned his head away, too proud to be hand fed.
“You were unconscious for four days. It seems your new found powers drained you.” She said, setting the bowl back down. “You were very exhausted from your wounds and travels, and the injuries you sustained from the fight made it worse.”
“I’ve never used magic like that before.” Diem muttered. His head began to spin again. He was far too weak to be talking to someone for that long.
“Well you certainly impressed everyone. No one thought a little pony could pull that off.” She said, walking towards the door. “My name is Myra. If you need anything, just call.” She left the room without another word and closed the door leaving Diem to himself.
Diem looked over to the bowl of soup. His stomach growled and he suddenly regretted not letting Myra feed him. He closed his eyes and imagined the bowl floating over to him. He suddenly felt something hit his nose and he opened his eyes to find the bowl of soup, surrounded by a yellow glow, hovering in front of him. Diem concentrated and the spoon in the bowl slowly lifted and floated towards him. He opened his mouth and tried to aim the spoon, but he missed and the spoon crashed onto the floor. He frowned and then looked back at the bowl. He slowly brought it towards him. It rested against his lips and he tilted it just slightly so the soup would pour into his mouth. He set the bowl down and chuckled to himself.
“Well… this is going to be fun.” He said to himself then looked at the table. “Maybe….”
He clenched his eyes shut and his horn glowed and sparked a little. The table took on the same glow and began to lift slowly. Gravity was trying to force the table down, making it hard for Diem to hold it up but he kept concentrating and soon the table was high in the air. He looked up at it and laughed until his horn began to spark and send bits of magical glow all over the place. The table shook and Diem found it harder to hold on to. Finally it crashed to the ground and a ball of magic shot from his horn, crashing through the window and out into the city, bursting into a million pieces like a firework in the night sky. Diem sat there, amazed, and wondered how on earth that had happened. Myra and Thalmone rushed into the room as soon as they heard the window break.
“What happened in here?” Thalmone asked, snorting.
“I… Uh… I’m not sure..” Diem said, turning towards them.
“You better be careful with that magic, unicorn.” Thalmone said, inspecting the window.
“Yes, my lord.” Diem said, bowing his head.
“You seem to know how to fight very well. You also appear to be very obedient. Where were you trained? Are you a soldier of some type?’ Thalmone asked. Myra picked up the bowl and spoon off the floor, cleaning up the soup that had spilled then walked out, smiling at Diem as she left.
“I was taken from my home to the Chimera City where I was turned into nothing more than a fighting pawn for their amusement. The only way to live was to kill whoever your next opponent was.” Diem explained.
“How many have you killed?” Thalmone asked. There was a long, painful pause before Diem looked away and finally spoke.
“Far too many.” Diem said, somberly. Thalmone said nothing for a while then reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a scroll, setting it on Diem’s bed.
“This is a mafp of the known world. I don’t know where you’re going, but this map should lead you to it.” Thalmone said. “Now get some rest and I’ll have Myra bring you some food later.” Diem nodded then laid back down in his bed to get some sleep.
As night fell, Darkness covered the city. The moon was dark and offered no light for the city. Torches were lit but their glows barely reached to the next torch. A shadow passed through the lights and climbed up a building. It opened the window and slunk in to dim bedroom. Myra was wrapped tightly in her blankets. The shadowy figure walked up to her bedside and just as Myra was opening her eyes it grabbed her and gagged her with a cloth and bandage. She struggled hard and tried screaming but the cloth was pushing down her throat making her choke. The shadow picked her up, and dropped a folded piece of paper on the bed, then leapt out the window. Wings sprouted from the creatures’ back as it flew off into the night.
As morning rose, Diem woke to a loud roar and furniture being tossed about. He got out of bed and limped over to the door. He was still weak and his body burned from the pain and weight he was forcing on it but he pressed on. As he opened the door with his magic he saw Thalmone crashing through the hallway that lead to stairwell that lead down to the main living room. Diem was surprised to find out he was actually living in the Mayor’s home, but was more curious as to what had happened to make Thalmone rush about his home, screaming like a wounded animal.
“My lord! What is it!?” Diem called out. Thalmone turned quickly and rage filled his eyes.
“You! Where have you taken her!? Where is Myra! Where is my daughter?!” He yelled, grabbing Diem by the throat and lifting him up high above his head. Diem’s horn scraped the ceiling as he choked and struggled against Thalmone’s grasp.
“I.. Don’t…Know…what you’re….talking… about…” Diem choked. He kicked the air, trying to hit the large Minotaur’s arm in hopes of dropping him but no such luck.
“You’ve taken my daughter! She’s gone! Where is she!?” He roared, then slammed Diem into the ground and dropping to his knees in tears. “Where is my daughter!?” he yelled, as tears poured from his eyes.
Diem coughed as he tried to get breath back in his body. He stood up slowly, and lifted his right front leg to keep weight off of it. It had been injured in his battle and was now hurting intensely from the abuse Thalmone had given him.
“My Lord, Myra, is your daughter?” Diem asked.
“My one and only… Her mother died years ago. I promised I’d protect her.. and now she’s…” The strong Minotaur couldn’t finish his sentence without crying.
“My Lord, I promise you, I didn’t take her, and I promise I will find her.” Diem said sternly. “Do you have any clues?” He asked.
“Just this note…” Thalmone said, handing Diem the paper. Diem concentrated hard and lifted the note with his magic, bringing it up to eye level. “It’s written in the old language, good luck reading it.” He added.
“I can read it. My mother taught me the old language.” Diem said. He looked at the scribbles on the note. Diem looked at the lines on the page and read them carefully out loud.
“Lord Thalmone, come to the darkened woods at dawn in two days or your daughter will die.” Diem read. “It isn’t signed by anyone.” He added.
“It is Kiltrin.” Thalmone said. “I’m sure of it, he’s made attempts on my life before.”
“Who is Kiltrin? And why does he threaten your life?” Diem asked.
“ Kiltrin is the son of a Griffon and a Unicorn.” Thalmone explained “I would imagine he hates me for the war against the Griffons we waged some years ago.”
“I see. Where is Freyr, I must speak to him.” Diem said walking towards the staircase.
“Last I saw he was out hunting. He may be staying in the aviary tower. We keep the phoenix there to send messages to other cities. It is on the other side of town.” Thalmone explained. Diem nodded and rushed out, using only three limbs to run.
He ran as fast as could in his wounded condition towards a small tower on the other side of the city. He saw Freyr, perched on top of the tower, talking to a phoenix. Diem rushed up to the tower and looked up at them, wondering what they could be talking about.
“Freyr! I need you down here!” Diem called out, laying down to rest.
Freyr looked down and spread his wings, gliding down to the ground in front of Diem. He flapped his wings a little, blowing air all around him and scraping the ground with his claws, making gouges in the dirt.
“Diem, I am surprised to see you roaming around this soon.” Freyr said looking down at the injured Unicorn.
“The Mayor’s daughter has been kidnapped. I need you to take me to the Darkened Woods.” Diem said. He tried to stand up but his body refused and he flopped back down to the ground.
“You are in no condition to go anywhere Diem.” Freyr said sternly
“Yes I know. I have to go and rescue her.” Diem said, trying to stand again.
“Why? Why can’t the Mayor go, or perhaps one of his warriors?” Freyr asked. Diem was at a loss for words. Freyr had a point and Diem couldn’t think of any reason why he should go except for one.
“Because…I fear I may be the only one who can save her.” He said finally. Freyr looked down at him, a little shocked and confused.
“Alright… I’ll take you.” Freyr said, not questioning the pony’s reasoning any further. Freyr let Diem climb onto his back and they flew off into the sky, towards a forest in the distance…
Carpe Diem: Rise of the Sun
Author's Note
Hi everyone! It's been so many years since I updated this story, but I've recently gotten back into MLP and decided I wanted to write again. I hope you all enjoy the story, and I apologize for any grammar/spelling mistakes. Please be sure to read the previous chapters as well!
Chapter 6 Kiltran
The Darkened Forest was true to it’s name; Below the canopy of trees the forest was nearly pitch black. Freyr had to land on top of the trees and almost dig his way through them just to get to the ground. Once they were on the ground, Freyr tucked in his wings as Diem slid off his back.
“Where now?” Freyr asked.
“I’m not sure, The note never said where to go to retrieve her.” Diem answered. He clenched his eyes shut until a small orb of light appeared on his horn, offering a gentle glow that cut through the darkness. “The note said to arrive at dawn in two days, we need to find the kidnappers first.”
“If I were going to kidnap someone, I’d take them somewhere I could hold them.” Freyr said. “Like a cave”
“Right, good idea.” Diem said. “Let’s try and find a cave or something.”
Diem began walking deeper into the forest, using his light to guide him. He winced and stopped for a moment to check his injuries.
“Why are you risking your life for these Minotaurs?” Freyr asked.
“They helped me when I needed it.” Diem said simply.
“They also forced you into battle” Freyr said. “You nearly died”
Diem paused and sighed. “I killed so many in that arena Freyr.. I want to save lives, not take them.”
Freyr smiled at him. “You’re a very kind hearted little pony.” He said. Diem blushed a little.
“We’ve got to find Myra, let’s keep going.” Diem said.
“Aren’t you afraid?” Freyr asked.
Diem laughed. “What do I have to be scared of? You’re a giant fire breathing lizard that can fly.”
“Fair enough.” Freyr laughed. He ducked his head under some branches, looking through the darkness with Diem’s lightspell.
Diem shivered as they delved deeper into the forest. “I swear we’re going in circles.” Diem complained. “I haven’t seen any sign of a cave or anywhere you could hide a minotaur”
Freyr nodded at the remark then stopped suddenly. “Diem!” He said quickly and shot his tail out, wrapping it around the pony to stop him.
“Ow!, what was that for?” Diem asked.
“Ahead, there’s a cliff” Freyr said quickly. Diem paused, then concentrated a little harder to brighten his light spell. It almost fizzled out for a moment then came back even brighter. He looked down and saw the jagged end of the path, and even further down into the chasm below. The cliff was deep, with darkness covering the bottom like a pool of dark clouds.
“How did you see that?” Diem asked.
“Night vision eyes.” Freyr chuckled and stretched his neck out to look across the cliff. “Looks like the other edge isn’t far off” He added.
“For you.” Diem grumbled and shone his light spell around to see if there was a decent path to get around.
Freyr chuckled and spread his large wings. He managed to catch a large enough air current and raised up into the air. He grabbed Diem in his claws, then glided across the crevasse. He gently dropped Diem down on the other side then landed behind him. Diem grunted as he landed, somehow managing to land on all four hooves.
“You want to give me some warning next time?” Diem asked, laughing a little.
“Where would the fun in that be?” Freyr asked and grinned, showing his large fangs as he did.
Diem shook off the dust and continued on through another path They walked for another hour deeper into the forest. Diem felt the magic of his light spell starting to fizzle He sighed to himself and glanced up at the very tip of his horn. The light was flickering, making him frown in concern. He snorted and stomped a little as he walked, forcing his magic to pulse. He looked down the path from his horn, and saw the face of a rock wall in front of them. As they approached, the outline of a cave formed. Diem stopped and smirked.
“There, let’s try there.” He said, pointing with a hoof. Freyr looked up and peered through the darkness.
“Good a place as any.” Freyr said. “That cliff would make it impossible minotaurs to come after them.”
“Exactly, so that must mean our foalnappers must be able to fly” Diem said.
“They are probably very strong as well, even a young female minotaur isn’t easy to keep somewhere they don’t want to be.” Freyr said.
Diem nodded and looked up at Freyr. “Ready my friend?” he asked, grinning. Freyr smiled and spread his wings slightly.
“After you my friend.” He said.
Diem straightened himself, puffed his chest out, then scratched at the ground with his front hoof. He snorted, then began a sturdy and determined march towards the cave entrance. As they reached the mouth of the cave, Diem paused to listen. He could hear voices deep inside. He snuffed out his light and turned to where Freyr was standing.
“Be my eyes? We should try and take them by surprise” Diem asked quietly. Freyr growled softly in agreement. He wrapped his tail around Diem’s midsection then began leading the way,
The cave was a straight tunnel forward with a slight bend towards the end where it opened into a large room that had several large cubbies, obviously where other tunnels had once been but filled in. Freyr stopped just around the bend and looked inside the room. It was light fairly well, but the light didn’t extend beyond the entrance of the room, and inside were several gryphons sitting around and laughing with each other. Behind them, one of the cubbies had thick heavy bars that glowed in a sickly yellow glow. Behind the bars, Myra was sitting on the floor, her hooves and horns were chipped and scuffed from trying to kick and head butt the bars open. A large creature stepped in front of the bars, blocking Freyr’s view of Myra. The creature was bigger than the gryphons and looked similar to them but off at the same time. Instead of it’s back half being a lion’s body, it was a horse’s body with a lion’s tail. It’s front legs and shoulders were eagle talons, and it had a long neck with a horse like face covered in feathers. A long spiraling horn was protruding from it’s forehead as well as two fangs sticking out of its muzzle.The creature had a dapple gray color to it’s fur and feathers, with its talons standing out as a bright silver. The mane, which was cut short and feathered, had streaks of silver and white in it. In other circumstances, he would have been a beautiful and wondrous creature to see, but watching him hold another innocent creature captive took away any of his beauty.
“That must be Kiltrin” Diem whispered to freyr
“There are many gryphons in there Diem, I may not be much use with my size, and your magic isn’t strong. What do you have planned?” Freyr asked. Diem huffed.
“No idea.” He said. “Stay here and wait for my call.” He added, then stepped into the light, catching the attention of the entire room. The gryphons stood up quickly from their talks and growled at the pony. Kiltran stepped between them and looked down at Diem
“A pony?” He laughed. “He sent a pony to save his daughter?”
“I demand you release Myra” Diem said.
Kiltran laughed even harder and lifted a large claw, pressing it against Diem’s face. “A little pony like you?” he asked, and turned Diem’s head to look down his flank. “You’re a full grown pony without a cutie mark? How pathetic are you?”
Diem snorted and ripped himself away from Kiltran’s claws. “Cutie mark or not i’m plenty strong enough to take you on.”
“Hey, that’s the pony from the arena in Eagle Rest” One of the gryphons said. “He took down a manticore by himself.”
“I saw him take on three gryphons with weapons, he didn’t even use magic” Another said. Kiltran snarled and stomped a back hoof.
“Quiet!” He yelled, then turned back to Diem. “Fight me then, if you can win I will release the minotaur”
“Fine.” Diem said, glancing back at the entrance to the cave. He couldn’t see Freyr, but he knew he was still there.
He looked back to see the gryphons standing in a circle on the edge of the room. Myra had stood up and come to the bars to watch. Kiltran stood in the middle of the room and Diem walked into the center as well.
He snorted, standing firm. Kiltran grinned and his horn began to glow. A yellow aura enveloped Diem and lifted him up rapidly, slamming the unicorn into the roof of the cave. Diem grunted in pain but before he could register where he was, Kiltran’s magic ripped him down and slammed him into the floor, then a wall. Kiltran finally dropped Diem and let him roll onto the floor. The gryphons laughed and Kiltran walked over to Diem as he struggled to stand up. Diem grunted as Kiltran put a sharp claw on his neck to pin him down.
“You should have stayed in the city little pony. You might have lived longer.” Kiltran hissed. He raised his second claw, ready to swipe at Diem’s throat to end it.
Diem clenched his eyes shut to brace himself from the pain. He felt a sudden surge of energy, his eyes snapped open, his eyes glowing brightly as if the sun itself was captured inside. His horn glowed and a bubble of magic wrapped around him, then exploded outward, the energy forcing Kiltran and the rest of the gryphons back into the walls of the cave. Diem floated in the air, as magic swirled around the cave. Tendrils of magic whipped around the room, transforming every gryphon into a perfect statues. Kiltran stepped back in fear. He created a protection bubble to block himself from Diem’s uncontrollable magic. Diem cried out as the magic became too much for him to handle. He writhed in pain, feeling the magic slowly drain him. The magic’s energy bounced through his body. Kiltran growled as stepped towards Diem.
“This ends now” Kiltran growled. He began another spell, aiming his horn at Diem.
A deafening roar stopped Kiltran as Freyr stormed into the room. Kiltran stared in shock of the wyvern, then looked at Diem again. He cursed to himself and prepared a second spell. Freyr stormed over, then opened his jaws sending a torrent of fire over the creature. Kiltran’s protection spell saved him from a fiery death, but it wasn’t going to hold much longer.
“I’ll be back for you little pony” Kiltran snarled bitterly
Magic enveloped Kiltran again and in a flash he disappeared. Fire spilled onto the floor where he had been, scorching the ground. Freyr stopped his flames then turned to Diem, who was still spasming in mid air. Magic hit Freyr but it didn’t affect him as he powered through the magic then wrapped his wings around Diem, pulling him in close and blocking out the light.
“Calm down Diem, it’s going to be okay.” Freyr said softly. He sat back on his haunches, then wrapped his tail around Diem as well. “Deep breaths my friend.”
Diem panted and struggled against the magic bursting from him. Freyr’s words hit him and he tried to force himself to calm down. Slowly, the magic around him began to spark and fizzle out. Slowly the magic died and Diem fell limp in Freyr’s wings.
Diem groaned as he slowly opened his eyes. The room was blurry, until slowly Freyr came into focus.
“What happened?” he asked.
“I think your magic finally surfaced.” Freyr said, setting Diem back down on all four hooves.
Diem shook his head then rubbed it with a hoof. Freyr folded his wings back then turned to Myra behind the bars.
“Don’t fret miss Myra, we’ll get you out of here.” Freyr said.
“Thanks for coming to save me.” Myra smiled. “They used magic to block me in otherwise I could have broken these doors no problem.”
“Can you break them?” Diem asked. He stumbled over, still exhausted from his magic exploits.
“I can try.” Freyr replied and tried to snap his jaws around one of the bars. The magic around them sparked and fizzled, but freyr ignored it. He snapped his neck back, ripping the bar free and breaking the magic. Myra charged the rest of the bars, breaking them easier without the magic. She burst free of her cage, then came to a stop. She cried out happily and bounced up and down.
“Let’s get you back home.” Diem smiled and started back for the entrance to the cave, but collapsed. He was still exhausted and bruised badly from the fight with Kiltran.
“It’s alright little pony, I’ve got you” Myra said and lifted Diem up.
“Not very heroic to be carried by the rescue.” Diem chuckled weakly. Myra grinned.
“Don’t worry, I won’t say anything, and I’ll set you down before we get back.” Myra grinned.
“Stay close to me miss Myra.” Freyr said, letting her hold on to his tail again as they made their way back.
Carpe Diem: Rise of the Sun
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