Chapters The Dreaded One, Dormammu
My last attempt to live had worked! Strange may have been able to stop me, tear me down, and nearly destroy me, but it takes much more to kill the great Dread Lord, Dormammu! But really, I may be taking pride in surviving the battle with Dr. Strange, the Hulk, Spider-Man and my damned sister Umar, but given the state I was in I had no right to take pride in anything. How could those lesser beings muster up the might to stop me? To end my rain?! Well, that could be summed up with three words! My own ignorance! But no, I survived, and I may be forced to live on a distance backwater world on the edge of the galaxy, with nothing more than a fragment of my power… But that’s all I need to start again, other than time.
And as I stared up at the stars above, I smiled in with the face of a native form that I had taken to better hide myself. A… unicorn. “You may have bested me now, Dr. Strange, but I will return. No matter how long it takes… Your world will be mine…”
I let out a sigh of distaste, before turning my attention to the world around me. I had made some preparations when I first manifested in this world, but I had yet to finish. Given how my power was no longer a burning sun, but now just a simple candle, I had to take my time with things. Though I had the knowledge of trillions of years behind me, this world had a great power of its own within it. One that could revile me to the galaxy, if I was not careful. Hints as to why I chose this world knows as Equus as my hiding grounds. The great magic it held would hide my own.
“Now what else can you tell me about the natives of this world?” I asked, looking to the floating mare next to me.
“Ponies have cutie marks,” She said in a dull tone, as she looked at me with faded purple eyes. “A cutie mark shows what that pony is good with. Some ponies are good at cutting things, making coffee, or being good with magic, such as myself… A cutie mark is located on the side of a ponies hip, right next to a pony's flank.”
I smiled, before looking to the mare’s side. She had a magic wand with a star for the tip with a crescent moon next to it. “So everypony has one?”
“Yes, everypony has their own cutie mark. No two are the same, but some can look alike, my Lord.” She said again, and this time, I smiled. My magic, though weak, still worked the same, and controlling a weak-willed mare was just too easy.
So a cutie mark represented what I was good at? My horn glowed as my magic waved over both of my sides before a cutie mark appeared on my side. A wooden wand that was on fire then appeared on both of my sides. And like that, my form was now finished. I was a stallion unicorn with a dark grey coat and a reddish-orange mane and tail. My eyes were black, and my horn was just slightly longer than the mare’s horn. My body was much larger than the mare's, but overall I still held a thin look. And though I lived my life as a bipedal, a quadruped form was quite easy to control, compared to the cosmic energy that I once held.
“You’ve served me well,” I started, but turning away from the mare and over to the carriage that the mare was pulling. “But you’re not done yet. Tell me, what do you do in this world, oh, and your name. Tell me that as well!”
“I am the Great and Powerful Trixie,” She started in a dull tone, but her words made me snicker. With her magical power as is, great and powerful she was not. “And I go from town to town performing shows and earning money to live. Showing all that oppose me that I can do anything better than they can…”
And now that my disguise was finished, it was time for me to move on to my next step of hiding myself. A life to call my own, but it would just act as something to distract the world around me so that I could grow in strength without any problems from the locals. “From here on out you will be my assistant. You will address me as your master, and I will you show you different forms of magic. If anyone asks, you met me on the road, you were not able to best me, and you begged me to teach you. Do I make myself clear?”
“Yes, Master Dormammu,” She said, in the same dull tone, and my eye twitched. My horn glowed once again, letting off a sick purple glow before a wave of magic engulfed the Trixie. The spell I had casted on her to control her needed slight modifications because she spoke with no emotion at all, which would give our cover away. That, and the glazed over dull eyes. But now both of those were gone, letting the mare now act normal.
But more importantly, she spoke my name. Such a thing can not be. “You will never speak the word Dormammu again, and if you are to address me by a name you shall call me…” I trailed off as my mind began to search for a name that would suit me, yet fit within this world. A few words came to mind, such as darkness, power, and dread, but none of them would work. But perhaps play-on-words would. I was Dormammu, the Dread Lord, master of dark magic.
I smiled to myself a synonym came to my mind. Dire Bishop. A simple twist of my title, Dread Lord, but worked well. “Trixie, if you speak of me, know that my name from this day forth is Dire Bishop. No longer will you ever speak the word Dormammu, let alone think of it. Do I make myself clear?” I asked, in a stern voice.
“Yes, Master Bishop,” She smiled, before giving me a bow. “Shall we move on, and begin the journey through Equestria?”
“Yes,” I answered. “Where is it that you were going?”
“Ponyville,” she responded.
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Two - Boast Busters Part 1
Dormammu Trivia time!
Did you know that Dormammu is literally living fire? If you take a look at his image, you’ll see that he has a body, only that body is made of metal, and Dormammu is really just that flaming skull.
As I walked along side my servant Trixie, my eyes roamed the world around us, and mostly to all the signs leading up to Ponyville. Welcome to Ponyville, home of Sweet Apple Acres ! One of the signs read. Friendliest town around ! Another proclaimed. Warning: When in town, do not enter the Everfree forest. A third sign had warned. And though this was just basic information, it did help me get an understanding of where I was. A backwater town on this backwater world. The perfect place to hide. If I play my cards right and trust me, I’ll be stacking the deck, this would world will not see me coming!
“And the rulers of the land are Princess Celestia, and the newly crowned, Princess Luna,” Trixie had stated.
As we were walking to the town of Ponyville, I have been asking question after question about this world. Now, giving what little time I had little time to prepare for my demise, I had not done as much research into this world as I should have had. Normally, I would read the minds of many, many creatures within the world, to get a better understanding of what I will face, but as I was short on time, I was unprepared. All I knew was the basis of this world, and how it’s magic worked.
“For the last thousand years, Princess Celestia raises and lowers both the sun and the moon, giving Equus day and night,” Trixie had continued, making me smirk at how simple their world was, and at how small their sun compared to the suns of other worlds. I knew that at the peak of my power, I would be able to drag the sun into their world with just a single thought! “Of course, this doesn't compare to what you can do, Master Bishop.”
“Speak highly of me, but not that highly,” I ordered, looking over to Trixie with a scowl.
She flinched back, almost stopping in her pace, while the large carriage she was pulling stuttering with her. “Yes, Master, I will restrain from doing that… Will you please forgive, Trixie?” She requested.
“You are forgiven,” I nodded before we began to walk up the final hill that leads into Ponyville. And what were my expectations of this town? Next to nothing, really. But they were still higher than what I saw. The buildings were made of wood and had straw for the roof. In the distance, I could see a large farm, and past that, even more farms. All in all, the smirk I held for picking this world as my home grew even larger.
“Trixie,” I began, looking over to the mare. “You take the lead. Do as you would normally do if we had not met, and once you are finished, you will begin to tell me more of your world.”
“Yes, Master.” She smiled, before pulling herself forward. “Might Trixie ask what you shall be doing in the meantime?”
“Are you speaking in the third person?” I asked, puzzled at what I just heard.
“Oh, I am sorry, Master. Would you prefer I speak normal?” She stammered, looking at me worried.
“No, no, you may speak how you wish, just do not break the rules that I have set in place for you…” I warned.
“I do have one question for you, Master, before we go into town…” She chirped, before looking to the ground. “Since you are my Master, and since you are much greater than I, and have powers that I could never hope to grasp… Would you please share your greatness and power with Trixie?”
“Not even a few hours in and my underlings are asking for… favors.” I murmured to myself, before looking to the mare. Normally I would have made an example of the mare by maiming her in one way or another, but as is, this would not be wise. I needed her aid, or at least, her mind, and though normally I could just cast a basic spell and learn everything she knew, I was not able. Not in this form, not with the minuscule magic I held, and certainly not if I wanted to keep my cover. “If you do well, I will. Otherwise, do not ask again. Do I make myself clear?”
“Yes, Master Bishop. Thank you, Master Bishop!” Trixie cheered before we both turned away from each other and continued to walk into the small town.
As much as I would prefer to not admit it, the show my new underling put one was a rather amusing one. Pony after pony, joke after joke, assault after assault, showed that she had some worth to her. From a showing up a cocky rainbow Pegasus mare that was a spitting example of something that needed to die, to that fashionista that worried too much about the color green, I found that everything Trixie had done was… amusing. But I can’t say I was fully engulfed into the show. My eyes kept roaming to a Unicorn mare in the crowd of ponies, one that held great magical power.
From what I did know of this world, was that there were several beings that held a great magic power within them. I knew that one was encased in stone, and was an embodiment of chaotic magic. Something that I was going to strip away from him in time… Then there were six beings there were all linked to a to a great magical power called the Elements of Harmony. At the moment, knew that six ponies were the ones that held this power, but I didn’t expect to run into the strongest of them on the first day. But in reality, the Elements of Harmony were the only real danger to me in this world. If I were to have its power unleashed onto me, it’s hard to tell what would happen. Even in my great wisdom, I can not see myself truly knowing what would occur, but that’s if I let such a thing happen.
No, all I would need to do is kill one of the six ponies and then the problem would be no more. And the mare in front of me? She was the link of magic, and even if she held a large pool of natural magic within her, her power was still only one-eighth of my own. I even found it amusing when the mare refused to challenge Trixie, even though it was easy to tell that she could destroy my weak servant.
“Ha! Once again, the Great and Powerful Trixie has proven herself to be the most amazing unicorn in all of Equestria. Besides my Master, that is.” Trixie exclaimed, not knowing the true power of the mare that just ran off.
It didn’t take long after that for the crowds of ponies to wander off, as the show quickly came to an end, and to no surprise, a large amount of them did hand over a few gold coins for the performance. And once Trixie and I were alone in her carriage, Trixie was very vocally ecstatic over the performance, stating that even in this small town she was still making a very well living. And given how intricate this carriage was compared to the rest of this town, it was easy to tell that Trixie was making quite the living for the last few years. Then again, in comparison to my castle back in my realm, this carriage looked was just a stain on the carpet.
“Of course, these bits are for you, Master,” She then added. “After all, Trixie lives to serve!” She smiled, pushing the large bag of coins towards me.
I stared at them for a moment, before raising one of my new eyebrows. “Trixie, though I do enjoy your offerings, I do not require this,” Lifting the bag into the air with my purple colored magic, I placed in next to her. “If my body needs to eat, then I shall make myself food. If my body requires sleep, I shall use your bed. If I require something from this world, bits, as you call them, won't get in my way of obtaining what I want.”
“In that case, Master, allow Trixie to indulge you a bit with our world's culinary side if you are so willing?” She started, before bowing her head. “Trixie wishes to show her gratitude and treat you to dinner, even if you are able to do it yourself. Allow Trixie to take this burden away from you?”
I had shaken my head but smiled. “Your enthusiasm is commendable, but what do you think you’ll be able to show me in this backwater town?”
“Trixie had heard a few ponies speaking about a sweet shop called Sugar Cube Corner, and hopes that it lives up to the praise.”
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Three - Boast Busters Part 2
Dormammu Fact
Dormammu's first appearance was in "Strange Tails #126 (November 1964).
If I still had my full power I would summon a beast to devour the Sugarcube Corner. As it was made to look like a gingerbread house, it would be quite ironic if it happened, and a quite enjoyable sight. But then I would have to do the process of killing the witnesses, or at least, hide while I did it to make sure none had seen me. Then again, if I had my full power I would just kill this world to bring me a brief but enjoyable moment of happiness. However, the smells of the bakery would have to do, even if they didn’t give me much excitement.
“Welcome to Sugarcube Corner,” A pink mare from behind the counter cheerfully called out, while her back was turned to use. “I’ll be with you once I get this order finished, for my friend Rarity.”
“Take your time, Master Bishop and Trixie will just look at what you have to offer,” Trixie stated.
Pausing in her activities, the more quickly looked around to us. “Oh, new ponies! Welcome to ponyville! My name is Pinkie Pie, nice to meet all the two of you! Now, new ponies each get one free sweet from Sugarcube Corner, so long as it’s under three bits. Mr. and Ms. Cake’s rule on that, sorry.” With that, she gave us a big smile, before getting back to whatever she was doing.
“Free? Trixie won't complain about free sweets, nor does not object,” Trixie declared with a smile, before looking down to the pastries on display.
But unlike Trixie, I was not looking through the pastries. I was looking at the mare in front of me. Pinkie Pie… How was it that I would run into another piece of the Element’s of Harmony in the same day? Perhaps I should have explored this world a bit more, just so I knew their locations… Or perhaps I just got unlucky with the location I was dragged to when I came to this world. However, given the nature of the Elements, it would not be too much of a stretch that I somehow run into more of them today or the coming days. They do have to be together for them to work…
“Trixie believes she’ll have the carrot cake with chocolate frosting,” Trixie declared, before turning to me. “And what shall you have, Master Bishop?”
I glanced at her, before giving the pastries a once over, and looking to the things that cost less than three bits. The only thing to even strike my fancy was a sweet looking pie, but even then I didn’t really have high expectations. “That,” I muttered, pointing to the pie.
“And my Master will have a slice of apple pie!” Trixie declared.
“Oh, you’ll both love those! I’ll get both of those in just a moment!” Pinkie giggled. “Will that be here or to go?”
“To go,” Trixie promptly stated. “Master and Trixie wish to return to our carriage quickly before night comes.”
“Aaaaaaaand, done!” Pinkie Pie laughing, before putting a large box of pastries down on the counter. “Sweetie Belle, you're ordering for Rarity is finished!”
From the corner of my eye, I saw a very small, very young filly jump her way down from one of the side booths and walk her way over to use. She had yet to have a cutie mark, and her mane was in curls. “Thanks, Pinkie,” She said, before looking over to me and Trixie. “Excuse me, please?” She asked.
I stepped to the side, allowing the filly to walk past me. Reaching out with her very weak magic, she grabbed the box then made her way to the door. “I might be back in a day or two if Rarity needs more, Pinkie. Let’s hope she doesn’t…”
“Yeah, let’s hope. See you around, Sweetie Belle!” Pinkie called out. “Now, let’s get two you taken care of…”
The apple pie was average but very filling for my pony body. But I could tell that I would require sleep soon, and with Trixie only having one bed, she’ll have to learn to sleep on the floor. Or until she wises up and buys another bed with the bits she earned today. As I have said before, her carriage was… less than adequate, but usable. In time I knew I would be able to move up in this world, and gain a real place I can call my domain. And when that happens, I can truly think in peace. Think of how I shall gain power, and about what I shall do when I become my true self once again. But above all else, the thing on my mind was the sky, the stars, and a small blue gem among them that I learned to destroy. Earth was a place that I would see again, in time.
“Doctor Strange, I hope you’re still alive when I return…” I muttered to myself.
“Who is Doctor Strange, Master?” Trixie asked with her mouth full of cake before quickly covering her mouth, while her eyes stared at me scared.
I smiled and let out a chuckle. “It’s so amusing when one of my servants stutters and asks out of line,” I murmured before my horn glowed, and implanted an image within Trixie’s mind. Her eye’s popped even wider, but this time in confusion. “That is Doctor Strange, my greatest foe… If you ever see him, quietly warn me of his presence. Do you understand?”
Trixie quickly started to nod over and over, and her hesitation made me laugh again, but this time it was out of malice. “Don’t worry about speaking when you're not supposed to, Trixie. If you don’t otherwise it will blow my cover,” I said with a very happy smile that made her calm down. “And you’ll know when you anger me because you’ll be dead.” Trixie’s eyes shrank as she stared at me, and again this made me laugh.
What? I, as the Dreaded One, have the right to enjoy the little things in life. As at the moment, I held no joy within my heart, only resentment, and hate. But I was no fool, and I knew dwelling too long in these negative emotions would affect me for the worse. Even if joy does come at the pain or fear of others, it was something that I needed.
“Wipe that expression of fear off of your face, Trixie,” I commented before my eyes looked over to the door. “We have visitors.”
And like that, there was a knock at the door. Trixie stood up and stepped over to it, before taking in a deep breath, and opening the door. “The Great and Powerful Trixie demands to know why you would be bothering her at this late hour, and more importantly, bothering her Master?!”
“W-we’re sorry, Miss Trixie, we were just going through town and all looking for ya’ to get your autograph…” A young male pony voice answered.
“Ya’, we wanted the Great and Powerful Auto-mo-fraf!” Another voice added.
“It’s pronounced autograph, Snails…” The first voice muttered.
“Oh, sorry, Snips…” Snails apologized.
“If it will make the two of you leave, then so be it. Hand Trixie what you wish for her to autograph!” Trixie demanded.
“Yeah, that'll show spike that Trixie is the greatest and most powerful there ever was!” Snails yelled.
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Four - Boast Busters Part 3
Dormammu Fact
Dormammu is the opposite of Odin. While Odin, father of Thor, is all about order, Dormammu is about chaos. The two have been in a cosmic chess match, and the winner of this chess match determines decides the universal balance of chaos and order. It’s not real chess, but an analogy.
Sleep. It was not a stranger to me, but with this pony, body sleep was a veil of darkness that came over me. It was almost impossible to see through, but welcoming. And do you know what happens to those that take something that I enjoy away from me? They die. As I stared at the two fillies that woke Trixie and myself up begging her to face Ursa Major, all I could feel was a boiling rage.
“Come on Trixie, take out the Ursa Major!” Snails yelled!
“Yeah!” Snips added.
“But I, but you…” Trixie stuttered as she stared at the large beast rampaging through town. Taking a gulp, she started to walk towards it while her horn glowed. Normally I would have laughed at her failed attempts to take down the best, but all I could see was read, and the only thing that could make me laugh now was the death of the two colts next to me.
And it showed me just how weak Trixie really was. Her lightning was that of child’s play, her use of the rope was pitiful, and I could have picked so many others that could do better than she did today.
“Come on Trixie, stop messing around, and slay the Ursa!” Snips demanded.
“Yeah, what are you waiting for?” Snails asked.
“But… But…” Trixie stuttered before her eyes widened as the creator started to stroll right up to me.
“RRaawwrr!” The best roared, and the force of its breath whipped my hair back.
“Master watch out!” She cried out.
Lifting one of its paws, the Ursa brought it down onto myself and the cart, only to find a crimson red shield in the way. “You dare attack me?!” I yelled.
Lifting it’s paw into the air again, the Ursa slammed it’s paw down again, and again,doing nothing to my shield each time, but instead letting out very noisy bangs. Each one of them just made me grit my teeth tighter and tighter. And as a headache started to form, my horn exploded into magic. The beast let out a yelp as I dragged it into the air with telekinesis, before flipping it over and throwing it towards the forest from which it came.
It let out another roar, before it howled up at the sky, then charging me. I had still yet to drop my shield, and a smile came across my face when the Ursa reared back before dropping all of its weight down onto me. Yet again, it did nothing. Even when I was nothing compared to myself before, a simple beast of this world could not best me.
Then I started to laugh before my horn brighter. The ground just outside of my shield erupted into fire and lashed out towards the Ursa. The beast let out a loud whimper, before tumbling back, and slamming down onto the ground. With is body now covered in burns, the Ursa quickly stumbled to its paws. With whimpers escaping its jaw, it ran as fast as it could towards the forest.
“That’s right… Run. Run, and never forget that you do not mess with the Dreaded one you weak creature!” I growled to myself.
I smiled, allowing my shield to fall, and the fire that I created to be extinguished. My body was still tired, but my anger had washed away, for now at least. I did expect more of a battle but considering that the Ursa Major was a weak beast I shouldn’t expect too much. At least it was smart enough to know when to run. Those humans back on Earth could learn a thing or two.
“M-Master that was…” Trixie stuttered as she ran up to me. “That was…”
“Awesome!” yelled Snips and Snails at the top of their lungs. Dashing their way to me, they both started to bounce up and down, screaming for me to do it again. This only made my headache worse…
“Do it again, Master of Trixie, please, please, please?” Snip asked.
“Yeah, do it again!” Snails added.
“Now hold up ya’ two, and don’t crowd the stallion,” A rather odd sounding mare said. Turning around, I found an orange Earth Pony walking it's up to me. She was the one from this morning, the one that was tied up from by Trixie. “Now my name's Applejack, and I’d like to thank ya’ for saving us from that Ursa Major.”
“You’re welcome,” I stated before letting out a sigh. “I need to go back to sleep. Would you mind if we were to… have any further discussion in the morning?”
“After what ya’ just pulled? Sure, go-”
“Oh, that was awesome!” Yelled a rainbow mare as she landed next to me. “You know your way around magic!”
“Rainbow, do ya’ have to be so loud?” The orange mare asked.
“Sorry, Applejack, but that was… wow,” Rainbow turned to me and smiled. “I’ve seen Twilight cast a few cool spells, but nothing that flashy.”
“Speaking of Twilight, here she comes now,” Rainbow pointed out. “Hey Twilight, did you see the cool spells that, ah, what’s your name again?”
“Dare Bishop, Master of Trixie Lulamoon,” I noted before yawning. But really, calling myself the master of what I saw today is somewhat of a shame. If the old me saw what I was today, I would have killed myself, and saved myself from this worthless shame.
“Wait, so you’re the master to that loud boasting ma-” Applejack stammered before getting cut off.
“What’s going on? Where’s the Ursa Major? I didn’t see it on my way here, so what happened?” The Element of Magic, also known as Twilight, asked as she ran up to us.
“No need to worry, Twi! This guy took care of it!” Rainbow hummed as she tapped my chest.
“Wait, what? You took care of the Ursa Major? How? I didn’t know anypony could take down one of those massive monsters...”
“Ah, don’t sweat it Twi, Bishop here took down that barn side beast!” Rainbow chuckled.
“...barn size? Rainbow, Ursa Majors are the size of small mountains! Their cubs are the size of barns!”
“No wonder it was so easy...” I muttered.
“What?!” Both Rainbow and Applejack yelled.
The earth then started to shake, only to stop, then start up again. “Oh no!” Twilight gasped, turning to the forest. “It’s coming!”
“W-what's’ coming?” Applejack asked.
At that moment an ear piercing roar boomed out throughout ponyville, and a visible chill dawned on the three mares around me. But this road only made me get even more annoyed. Must I deal with every little thing that tries to interrupt my sleep? And most would find my use of the phrase little thing an understatement at the size of the Ursa Major looming its way towards the town. But given that size does not mean power, and given that I’ve faced gods, this monster was nothing. Nothing, but a stepping stone to aid me in the growth of my power.
“Evacuate ponyville! Get everyone out! Rainbow, wake up everyone! AJ, go get your family! AND RUN!” Twilight screamed, before lifting the small purple reptile with her magic, and dashing away.
Running back up to me, Trixie looked even more scared now than before. Her mane was messy, and her eyes were wide. “Master, we must go! Your power is great, so much greater than Trixie, but I fear you may not have the power to face an Ursa Major!” She begged.
Rolling my eyes, I gave Trixie a dumb look. “Take the cart out of town. I do not wish for my home to be destroyed. Don’t worry about finding me, I’ll find you, Trixie. I have an Ursa Major to kill.”
“But Master-” Trixie began before my horn flared, and her mouth was held shut.
“Trixie, do you know what happens to those who disobey what I say?” I inquired, before squeezing tighter. “They lose their privilege to speak, forever. Now go.” Trixie nodded in fear before dashing off once more. I frowned while letting out one more yawn.
I guess I don’t have to hold back, considering that the Elements of Harmony are so close… Not to mention that chaotic forest… I’ll be able to use my true power without it being detected because there are very strong magical presences here covering me. My horn light up, and flames engulfed my hooves, and soon after, I found myself rocketing towards the Ursa Major. “Your child learned first hand why he should not attack the Dreaded One, and no so shall you!” I declared.
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Five - Boast Busters Part 4
Dormammu Fact
Doctor Strange refers to Dormammu as his "most terrible foe"; a threat to "the life of the universe itself", that "at full power, no one could stand against." Meaning he’s in the top five most powerful Marvel Characters.
The real Ursa Major lived up to its name. Powerful, a true monster, and fears beast. It would be a shame to end the life of something that I could use, but it’s forcing me… hoof. I threw up a shield as I flew headfirst at the Ursa, bracing myself for the heavy blow of the beast. It’s eyes roamed over to me, seeing me quickly approaching. Bearing its teeth, it took a step forward before lifting its right paw. With speeds that you would normally not expect from something so massive, it slammed it’s paw down onto my shield. My shield cracked from the blow but held firm.
There was no sense in holding anything back, so I allowed my horn to shine as bright as the sun as I challenged the magic within me. Like before, the ground far beneath me caught fire, but this time, massive red-glowing chains blasted out of the flames. Wrapping around the Ursa, the chain’s glow started to fade as the heat they brought with it was transferred into the Ursa Major. The Ursa let out a yelp before pulling against the chains.
Creaking sounds came from the chain, and one by one they started to break, but I was not going to give the Ursa any time to act. My horn glowed once again, and the ground under the Ursa Major’s left leg started to liquify and become water. Dropping down to its knee, the Ursa toppled to its side. Crashing down onto the forest around it. The Ursa growled louder, before leaning back. Opening its jaw, it let out a roar so powerful that my ears popped, and my shield even cracked more.
I laughed but shook my head at the beast. “It’ll take more than that to break my shield!” I yelled.
Pulling against my chains, the Ursa Major shifted all of its weight onto its right leg before kicking up. In one mighty push, all of my chains shattered, the ground around the Ursa buckled, and it leaped up into the air at me. Using its momentum and weight, it slammed its paw down onto my shield. More and more cracks form and my eyes drifted down to my nose as blood started to flow out.
“It would seem my body can’t handle my power…” I murmured.
There was another boom as the Ursa struck my shield again, and I could tell that my crimson shield was moments away from breaking. I smiled, before my horn quickly flashed and I vanished. Teleporting away from the Ursa Major, and back near the town of Ponyville. As I did, the Ursa smashed down on my shield and shattered it.
It didn’t take long for the best to find me again, not because the best was able to easily find me on its own volition, but because my horn began to glow brighter and brighter, and this time onlooker would see its glow as bright as the sun. “If those basic spells won't work on a simple beast, then allow me to show you my true power!”
The world around me exploded into flame as I formed a massive ball of fire above me. The heat of it instantly killed all the grass around me, and even caught fire to one of the nearby houses. With a flick of my horn, the ball of fire launched towards the Ursa Major. Lifting both paws, the Ursa moved to catch the ball of fire, only to burn itself on contact. Letting out a loud whimper, the Ursa reeled back in the heat of the ball and did it’s best to backpedal away from it, only to have it’s leg fall once again into the water that I had made. Losing its balance, the Ursa tumbled back, slamming onto the ground, and letting out a very strong tremor. But this was not over! No, as my ball of flame reached the best it exploded, engulfing the world around the best in fire.
Then the smell of brimstone and smoke wafted out and made me smile. It reminded me of home... It reminded me of what I learned for!This is what I wanted. This was my power! And this is what was going to happen to Doctor Strange when I get all of my power back! You hear me strange, you’re going to die!
Then the shockwave hit me, making me take a step back. My smile turned into a chaotic, maniacal grin as the house that I lit on fire with my orb was blown away, not to mention some of the surrounding forests. Then the Ursa Major let out another roar…
“Not dead yet, it would seem…” I growled. “Fine… If destructive power won't work, then a battle of the mind will…”
Leaping off of the ground again, my hooves were engulfed with fire once more as I few to the Ursa once again. It was badly wounded, that much was clear, but the durability of this beast was astounding. Perhaps killing it was a bad idea, to begin with…
“You will fall to my will!” I yelled before reaching out with my magic, and forcing my way into the beast’s mind. “I am the Dreaded one, and you will do as I say!”
The beast pushed back as best as it could, but its mind was weak. Simple… Something so easily manipulated! “When I say you’ll do as I say… You’ll do as I say!” I yelled, pouring more magic into my spell, and forcing myself even deeper into the beast’s mind. It was then that it the Ursa went slack, and its eyes glazed over. I was in control now, and with just a few simple ideal implants the beast would act as it would normally, that was until I had a use for it and called it to me. Blinking, the Ursa Major stood up, before slowly making it’s way back into the forest.
“And now… I can get some sleep-” My mind then became hazy and dark as I began to fall unconscious. “...damn. Why is this body so weak to my magic?” I asked myself, before dropping from the sky.
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Six - Dragonshy Part 1
Dormammu Fact
Dormammu is stronger in the Dark Dimension, being empowered by the worship of his followers, and can draw upon its power. So if he took over a world, and they all on that world worshiped him, he would gain power through that worship.
My eyes slowly opened as the blinding light of the sun gleamed down onto me. I was outside, and there was a small burning fire next to me. It didn’t take long for me to get ahold of myself, and to tell where I was. I was lying down in a small clearing, and Trixie’s cart was just a few steps away from me. The bed that was normally inside had been dragged out and placed next to the welcoming fire. I knew I had lost conscious, but from the looks of it, Trixie was able to find me and take me with her before anyone else could.
I glanced down at my hoof before giving myself a once over. I felt fine, and my body even looked fine, but there was something that was wrong. This pony body was weak… At the moment it was not able to handle all of the magic that I held within it. I other had to find a better way to cast my spells, or alter the body to make it compatible with my magic.
“Master?” I glanced away from my hoof and over to the cart to see Trixie smiling at me. “Oh thank goodness you’re awake! Trixie thought she lost you!” Stepping forward, Trixie’s horn glowed as a large pot, as well as a stand was placed over the fire. “I’ll have breakfast done in just a moment, Master, don’t you worry!”
I shook my head but smiled. “Good work on recovering my body after I fell unconscious, Trixie. For that, you have my gratitude. You’re really proving your worth, aren't you?”
“Trixie lives to serve!” Trixie stated with a smile, taking in my praise like a sponge.
“Now, where are we?” I asked.
“Oh, just outside of ponyville. After you fell unconscious, Trixie didn’t think it was a good idea to be on the move, and did everything she could to make sure you were taking care of,” She explained before trotting past me and over to a nearby tree. “The town is just over there, and before Trixie forgets, you were asleep for four days.”
“Four days? My body is in a worse of a condition that I thought…” I trailed off as the smell of ash and brimstone reached my nose, and I knew that it was too potent to be coming from the small fire next to me. “Trixie, why does the world smell like it’s on fire?”
“Oh, yes, a dragon has made it’s home in a nearby mountain and is breathing smoke into the air as it snores. Trixie doesn’t believe that anypony has gone to deal with the dragon yet, but none the less...” Trixie clarified as she went back to preparing breakfast. “And Trixie knows you said that you do not require me to obtain you food, but what would you prefer, Master? Having to cast a spell before you truly know what’s wrong with your magic, or to not have to do anything, and enjoy some good fresh cooking?”
I chuckled at her comment but nodded. She had a point, and I knew that it would not take me long to find out why my magic was not compatible with the body that I made, but until everything was said and done, casting spells would just make things worse. “What will we be having for breakfast?”
“Blueberry oatmeal, Master,” Trixie answered. “Along with fresh picked apples, that I got from a nearby farm.”
Turning away from Trixie, I made my way to the fire before plopping down next to it. Its warmth was welcoming and familiar, as my true form was living magical fire. Most didn’t know that about me, and assumed that my metal body was a part of who I was, but the truth was I was just the living fire skull. I smiled to myself when the mental image of my pony form clad in metal with a flaming skull. It was amusing.
“So what has been happening in the town of Ponyville since the attack?” I inquired while my gaze was still fixated on the flames under the cooking pot.
“Noisy, Master. They have rebuilt a few of the buildings that were destroyed and had even come by to thank you for saving the town. But I warded them off so that you could rest in peace.” Trixie elucidate.
“I take it they had festivities while I was recovering?” I joked.
“No, Master, the pink mare from the bakery told everypony that until you recovered that they were going to wait to have a party...” Trixie deadpanned before shaking her head, and adding water to the cooking pot.
“I believe her name was Pinkie Pie,” I muttered. “But celebration in my name? How can I turn that down… Their praise will fuel my power.”
“This is why Trixie didn’t take Master away from Ponyville. She knew you would enjoy such things! Well, Trixie hoped you would anyways…” Trixie sheepishly declared.
“You did good work, Trixie. Again, you have my thanks,” Standing up, I strolled over in the direction that Trixie pointed out before looking down into the town of ponyville. “I shall return shortly. Make sure my bowl is warm when I return. I shall go… schedule this party with the pink one. At this point my cover, though not blown, has been affected. If I do not act now, then things will not play out the way I wish, and negatively affect the plans that I have made. I must… control this situation.”
“Yes Master, I shall get it done,” Trixie bowed. “Have a safe trip, and please be careful not to strain your power too much.”
“Funny… You’re more sincere than most of my past servants…” I muttered to myself so that Trixie would not be able to hear me.
It didn’t take me long to make my way through Ponyville, especially since most ponies were asleep this early in the day. The sun was just rising over the nearby mountains, after all. But as I found my way to Sugarcube Corner instead of picturing any beast eating the establishment, I imagined my new pet eating it with one bite. An Ursa Major was that big after all, it would be able to do it.
“Oh, welcome to Sugarcube Corner. You’re earlier than most of the ponies that come in for breakfast, but none the less we’re ready for business!” A plump mare stated from behind the counter. “My name is Miss Cake, and how can I help you today?”
“I am looking for Pinkie Pie. She said that she would throw me a party for saving the town.” I explained, and the mare’s eyes then popped wide.
“Oh... You’re… You’re… Honey, get in here, that stall that saved the town is here! It’s Dire Bishop!” She called out while bouncing from one side to the other.
“What?!” A stallion, who I could tell must have been Mister Cake asked. Rounding the corner, a tall yellow stallion appeared with a look of shock. “Honey, go wake up Pinkie, go wake up Pinkie!” Without another word the mare bolted off, practically flying up as she went.
“I take it the town is rather… ecstatic from my actions?” I asked.
“Well you took down a monster the size of a mountain, so yeah! Now, what can I get you? Cake? Muffin? Pie? Whatever it is, it’s on the house!” The stallion called out in glee.
“ALL OF THE ABOVE, MISTER CAKE ‘CAUSE WE’RE HAVING A PARTY!” Screamed a familiar voice as a pink blob ladder next to me.
“Right you are, Pinkie, right you are!” The stallion smiled.
“Before you both get overboard with anything, I must say this-” Turning to the Pink mare, I lifted a hoof up, and cleared my throat. “I request for this party to be held in the afternoon, other today or tomorrow would be preferable, and be large enough for the whole town to attend. As it was the whole town that I saved. No… pony should be left out.”
“Silly, that’s how all of my parties are!” Pinkie Pie laughed before throwing a hoof over my side. “You’re going to love it! Thank you so much for taking care of that big ol’ meaning monster!”
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Seven - Dragonshy Part 2
Dormammu Fact
One of Dormammu’s end games is to replace the Celestials. The Celestials are Immensely powerful and of huge humanoid shape, and are some of the oldest entities in the Marvel Comics universe. Yes, they are stronger than Dormammu, but in time and if unchecked, Dormammu will be stronger than them.
Even the praise of the ponies was enough to fill my body with energy. It was not enough to replenish what I used in the battle with the Ursa Major, but enough to make my body feel less strained and tired. In reality, these ponies were somewhat too forward with their praise, not that it was a bad thing. No, these ponies just seem too easily impressed. In comparison to the battles I have waged in my life, this was nothing more than a squabble between two ants, and the ants hand no legs. Did I really just call myself an ant with no legs? This body must be weaker than I thought for such a thought to come into my mind. It’s making me… I believe confused would be a good word for this situation. And perhaps more praise would help me snap out of this confusion quicker. A few living sacrifices would work, along with unwavering devotion and loyalty. Oh, how I miss my realm.
“So Mister Bishop, what’s your favorite cake flavor? Chocolate? Strawberry? Red Velvet? Carrot? Oh wait, why not all of the above in a massive layered cake? Oh, I’m so writing that down for later!” Pinkie Pie stated as she bounced around me. I had done my best to ignore most of her banter, only chiming when I need to, and giving the occasional reaction based off of what little information that I had taken in.
“Red Velvet,” I answered before looking over to the small group of ponies that were watching me from the other side of the store. My presence here was drawing a crowd, which was good for the store as it was allowing them to sell more of their sweets. Mister and Misses Cake even thanked me for that, and as it was praise… Well, you get the idea. It’s always welcomed. Why do you think I enjoy Trixie’s presence on stage so much? As she is linked to my power in the form of mind control, when she gains praise I grow in power.
“Oki Doki, now what about something to drink? We got fruit punch, Sweet Apple Acres apple juice, orange juice, the list goes on!” Pinkie inquired.
“I request a savory wine... For myself at least. You may have a fruit flavored juice for those who do not wish to partake in an alcoholic drink.” I declared.
“Mmm… I think I can get some from Berry Punch, so that takes care of that!” Pinkie ponders out loud. “Welp! That just leaves one-”
Pinkie was cut off as the door to Sugarcube corner was blown open. Standing in the door was a very determined looking Twilight sparkle her eyes darted directly to Pinkie Pie before she dashed forward. “Pinkie!” She then yelled.
“Yes, Twilight?” Pinkie hummed.
“Princess Celestia has requested us to deal with the Dragon! I need you to get ready to travel to the mountain. We are to other get the dragon to find a new place to call it’s home, or… or…” Twilight very slowly looked into my direction, and for several long moments, she just remained frozen.
“Oh! Twilight, good knew! Bishop here woke up from his magical exhaustion! We’ll be throwing him a party other later today, or tomorrow,” Pinkie Pie explained as she hopped over to Twilight. “The whole town will be there! I hope they will anyways since I have yet to sent out the invitations!”
Twilight then broke into a low bow. “As Princess Celestia’s personal student, and on her behalf, we of Equestria thank you for your actions in protecting Ponyville. Even if it would result in personal harm,” She began before standing up. “Princess Celestia would have come her herself to tell you that, but she has a lot of work to do right now and has asked me to handle our thanks to you.”
“Oh, oh! Idea, idea! Twilight, we’re going off to handle a Dragon, right?” Pinkie beamed. Just looking at her you could tell that the gears in her head were turning, but to no surprise, she then turned to me. “Since you dealt with that Ursa Major so well, would you mind coming with us and helping us take care of a fire breathing dragon?”
“Pinkie I don’t think we have the right to ask that of him… And besides, dealing with an Ursa Major is hard enough as it is. We can’t just ask him to join us after he woke up from magical exhaustion.” Twilight clarified.
But was she wrong? Yes and no. Asking me such things was a bit insulting as they need to deal with their own problems. I am a god, nor a shofar. However, there was an opportunity to be had here. I did just deal with one of their monetary problems. Dealing with another would just lead to more praise, and I don’t need to repeat myself on how praise is good, do I?
“I shall join you, and if this Dragon won’t listen to reason then I shall step in and force it to leave!” I announced loudly to Twilight’s shock, but Pinkie’s joy.
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Eight - Dragonshy Part 3
Dormammu Fact
Dormammu is a strategist, one that uses his immortality to full use by coming up with plans to take over world's or dimensions that utilize time. When he is not able to just take over a world now, but can do so with no effort in ten years, he would decide to wait. He’s always looking for ways to better himself, give himself an edge in life, and things of value that he can put to use. But once someone or something is useless he more often kills/destroyed it, or locks it away in his dark dimension, so that others can not use it against him.
Trixie’s reaction to me telling her that I was going to face a dragon was enjoyable as she wished me the best of luck, and exclaimed that the dragon was nothing compared to me. Her reaction when I told her she was coming with me was even better. No, she was not fearful like I had hoped, but overjoyed in seeing my magical prowess shown off. She even got a scroll, some ink and quill to take notes. It was out of character for her, but after my battle with the Ursa, if you could even call that a battle, she truly understood why I was to be worshiped. Quickly thereafter I had told her that we were going to be joining six mares in a journey, those being the bearers of the Elements of Harmony. Her reaction to this was a basic yet witty comment on how they are not fit to witness my power. All in all, I can say that I’m enjoying this mare being my servant.
And thus I knew I didn’t need more followers, for now at least. What I did need was my body to heal. Given that I had time to spare before we headed out for this Dragon, I had time to find out the details of why my body was so weak. You should just chalk it up to me not being used to a new form, but I know better. I know I made this body rival the magical prowess of all of the Princess combined, and at the moment my power was roughly half of all of theirs! So tell me, why was my body not handling my magic? Only time would tell… Only time would tell...
“Trixie is sorry for interrupting, Master, but it’s time to go,” Trixie informed me. “As you requested, Trixie shall not be bringing my stage attire, nor will she bring anything at all.”
I let out a long sigh before nodding to myself and opening my eyes. Meditation was enlightening, but when left to my thoughts all I found was puzzlement. I had yet to discover why this weak body was the way it was or why my magic has not fully healed me. But I had more urgent matters to worry about right now. “Come then, we must head out to the Elements,” I ordered before the walk to town started.
As I knew where I would meet the mares I was able to make a bee-line there. To be more exact, I was the second to arrive, right after Twilight Sparkle. I was finally able to learn her full name, as well as the names of the other Element bearers. It was unable to know the names of those that could snuff out the candle that is my life.
“Hello, Bishop... Trixie,” Twilight stated while doing her best not to show the distaste in her tone when she spoke my servant's name. “So you didn’t bring anything?”
“There is nothing in our possession that would be of use to face a Dragon,” I noted. “Not that I required anything, that is.”
“Yes, Master Bishop decided that traveling light would be a wiser decision,” Trixie beamed even though she originally wished to bring things to take notes. “And what of you, Sparkle? What did you bring?” She then added in a hidden but still audible child-like tone.
“Just a few notes on Dragons, the letter from Princess Celestia, a quill or two, and some ink. All to take some notes…” Twilight remarked as she examined her bag. “But, you know, I’m kind of relieved that you decided to come, Bishop. After seeing you take care of the Ursa Minor and Ursa Major, I’m a bit less worried about this Dragon. But we’ll go over how we’re going to deal with this Dragon once we get to its lair.”
“What do you mean plan? Master will head into the cave, ask the Dragon to leave, and if it says no force it to leave.” Trixie muttered.
“Yes Trixie, however, as much as I do so enjoy riding the waves of battle, I am still recovering from the Ursa battles. I will face this Dragon if I must, but if Sparkle and her friends can save me the trouble then so be it.” I chuckled.
“I’ve actually been meaning to ask you about that, Bishop,” Twilight began. “How in the world are you this good with magic? I asked Princess Celestia about you and she didn’t even know who you were. Are you self-taught? Or are you not even from Equestria?”
At this rolled my eyes. “Self-taught, Twilight Sparkle. And I don’t really have a home, outside of Trixie’s cart. I don’t even remember where I am from,” I lied while putting on a content tone of voice. “I’ve been out and about, traveling around for so long that it’s hard to remember.”
“And yet Master Bishop’s power is still unrivaled throughout all of Equestria, proving that he’s just a prodigy, and he is a dream Trixie wishes she can live up to…” Trixie interjected with a smile.
“The difference between a dream and reality, Trixie, is that one is a fantasy of your own making, and the other requires time and determination to make those dreams true.” I offered. And true to my words, I was a burning testament to that statement. All I need is time, and my will shall rule this world.
“Self-taught… I mean, most of my studies I conduct alone, so I’m partially self-taught, but you must be truly gifted if you’re this good…” With a glow of her horn, Twilight pulled out a quill and parchment paper, before looking at me inquisitively. “Would you mind if I asked you a few questions?”
“It depends on the question asked, Twilight Sparkle, and Trixie, pay attention to this.” I proclaimed.
It took nearly another ten minutes, but all of the mares finally arrived, but when they did we were finally able to move on with this expedition and start the very short journey to deal with this dragon. And as one door opens, another closes. That door being Twilight’s questions. They were mostly basic, and where about what type of spells I used. Somewhere also about how I trained, but overall I only had to deny answering one of them. It was very basic but involved her getting ahold of a fragment of my magic to test.
However, everything was not sunshine and rainbows, particularly with Rainbow Dash who was just beaming with the sunshine! If you can’t tell, I’m being sarcastic. The mare had been giving Trixie aggravating looks the moment she got to us, but it was only at my request that she stopped. And even then she had continued giving them, even if they were less often. Pinkie, on the other hand, was a ray of sunshine. An annoying one, but I needed her help to regain my power. Even if she didn’t know she was helping me, that was.
Fluttershy was… well, let’s just say her reaction of me was fitting. If any of them knew who I was they would all be acting like her. Fearful, scared, and cowering. It made me smile… Which made her shake even more, which just made me laugh in turn. Rarity, however, was, as her element suggested, generous. As she had learned that a party was going to be thrown in my name, she had offered to make me a coat as a gift. In her words, something strapping. As I held a very strong, demanding figure, a coat that matched that would be necessary. And I could not agree more… Applejack was simply grateful for me joining the group, while at the same time giving Trixie the stink eye. Like Rainbow, she stopped when I asked her too, but unlike Rainbow, she kept her word.
But it was easy to tell that tensions were high between my assistant and the six mares. Such tension could be both a good thing and a bad thing. However, there are so many things that I must keep track of and plan for, so a basic hate of each other was something I didn’t want on my plate.
“Before we go any further,” I started as we reached the base of the mountain. “I understand that there are a few of you here that have some resentment for my assistant, Trixie.”
“You can say that again…” Rainbow muttered.
“My point exactly, and considering we are moments away from facing a Dragon, I do not wish for this to be a problem. Trixie,” I spoke up. “Apologies to these mares for your actions.”
“Wait, what?” Every mare asked at the same time, not including Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy.
Without skipping a beat, Trixie stood up straight and turned to Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash. “I Trixie Lulamoon, servant of the great Dire Bishop, offer my sincerest apologies to the three of you for my actions a few days ago. Please accept my apologies…” And like that, to add a cherry on top, she bowed to them.
“Wait, what?” Rainbow repeated.
“I’m not quite sure what to think, truthfully…” Rarity muttered. “Um, well considering who your master is… Oh fine, Trixie, I shall accept your apology. Just do me a favor, will you, and never dye my hair green again?”
“Now, a part of me is saying that I should question this apology, but like Rarity said, your master did just save the town… Ah, who am I kidding, fine. Y'all are forgiven, sugar cube.” Applejack added.
“Come on girls, after what she did to us? Come on, we can’t forgive her-” Rainbow started before getting glares from Applejack and Rarity. “- oh fine,” Rainbow huffed. “I’ll accept it or whatever…”
“That was… unexpected.” Twilight whispered.
“Oh, this is just another thing to celebrate when we get back from dealing with the Dragon!” Pinkie cheered out, and at the mention of the dragon Fluttershy started to quiver in fear. Only to do so more when she noticed me staring at her.
“Well, we don’t have any time to waste! Another second is just another acre of land covered my dragon smoke!” Twilight declared before we all began the climb up the mountain.
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Nine - Dragonshy Part 4
Dormammu Fact
Dormammu has had several different costumes as time goes on. Most of them seem goofy, but the comics in the 60s to 90s can be summed up as goofy. But did you know that Dormammu started out as just a name? His character design was not even done by the time he was first implemented.
For context, we’ll be going with his more recent design in this story as seen in Marvel vs. Capcom 3. If he is in pony form just think of the story image.
My plan when I first came to Equestria was to take over the mines of five Unicorns and use their magical power to boost my own while hiding and staying out of sight. To have no pony on this world know who I was, but things changed quickly. Too quickly for my liking, and I can only blame myself for my actions in not avoiding these outcomes.
These outcomes and changes now placed me alongside the Elements of Harmony, moving off to face a dragon. But my plans were flexible, even if they are being stretched to their limits. And once again, I can only blame myself for my actions, even if this situation would end with me gaining power.
“Cake? Check. Refreshments? Double check. Party decorations? Triple check. Party invites? Well, Gummy is taking care of those, so check!” Pinkie Pie mumbled to herself as we slowly made our way up the mountain. “Hey, Bishop, the party is almost ready! Once we’re done taking care of this Dragon we can start!”
“You work quickly, Pinkie. You have my thanks for getting this taken care of so quickly.” I stated.
“You’re welcome!” Pinkie beamed.
“You two might want to keep your voice down, these mountains are prone to avalanches,” Twilight called back.
I rolled my eyes at this before my horn glowed and a large crimson shield formed over all of us. “Then let the rocks fall, nothing will happen.”
“Well that works,” Rarity chimed in.
“Once again, you show your masterful magical prowess, Master.” Trixie gloated.
“So when Trixie is not gloating about herself, she’s gloating about her master?” Applejack asked before chuckling to herself. “No offense, Trixie…”
“Unless you insult my Master, you will not offend Trixie…” Trixie almost yelled causing some smaller rocks to fall down on us.
“AVALANCHE!” Fluttershy yelled, before diving under Twilight. And ironically it caused an Avalanche making rocks fall down into my shield. I had to hold back from laughing at how weak the impacts were. The reactions of the mares made it even funnier as they tried to dive for cover as well, but not a single rock got through.
“Well, ah, thanks?” Rarity offered, before standing up and dusting herself off. “Oh, it’s going to take me an hour to these dirt marks out of my coat…”
“Better a dirt mark than being crushed, right?” Rainbow chuckled before looking over to me. “Thanks again, Bishop.”
“Yeah, we owe you one,” Twilight smiled before looking down to the cowering Fluttershy between her legs. “Are you alright, Fluttershy?”
“Um, w-what?” She stuttered. “Y-yes… Yes, I’m f-fine.” She did her best to put on a strong smile, but as she stood up we could all see her hooves quiver under her weight.
“Are you sure about that? Trixie doesn’t believe you’re sure about that.” Trixie commented while also stating the obvious.
“Now I know I said we’ll forgive you and all, but you’re making it real hard to, ya know that?” Applejack commented before looking to me. “How you two even meet? Kind of hard to even tell that you’re student and master given how you act.”
“Oh, oh, story! Story!” Pinkie cheered.
“If we keep walking, I shall share how Trixie and I met…” I sighed before shaking my head.
“Bishop does make a point. We should keep moving.” Twilight added.
This was going to be a very simple lie. A basic one that I know Trixie would use later if asked. “We met on the road about a month ago. Trixie was boasting that she was better than I, and well, after losing a battle she begged me to make her my student-” More like a slave, but those under my will seem to respond better to be called servant over slave. Given how I can’t rule with an iron fist it’s better this way. “-and some time later, we are here. There’s not much to it, as this has been quite recent.”
“You must have put quite the impression on Trixie then, considering that she likes to talk about herself,” Applejack chuckled.
“You have no idea,” Trixie mumbled.
It didn’t take us long after that to reach the peak of the mountain. Things, as from my perspective, were going slow. Twilight had begun to explain what we shall all be doing, and giving that I was placed within the same group as Applejack in dealing with the dragon if it attacks, I could tell that Twilight knew little about battle. I will commend her when she told Trixie to not say anything, but I was not impressed, and Pinkie Pie was quite distracting. What I found amusing was how Twilight thought that she could get Fluttershy to overcome her fear. The mare had a fragile and caring heart, and such a thing would prove difficult, if not impossible. Eventually, Twilight was forced to leave her where she stood.
Well, stood isn’t the right word. More like… shook. Quiver in horror would also work.
However I was impressed by the sheer stupidity that quickly followed. Twilight’s negotiation skills were almost as bad her knowledge of battle. After that Rarity showed that even those who are generous can be greedy, and given how she was an element of harmony, this was quite the eye opener for me. If I was going to affect the Elements, and not just kill them, then breaking who they were was the best course of action.
Then… Then Pinkie Pie broke me. In the years that I have been alive, through all the world's I have taken for myself, not once I was rendered speechless from utter stupidity. Waddling her way into the cave, I watched as Pinkie Pie waddled her way to the Dragon. A part of me wished for this to work, just so that I knew I have reached the lowest point in my life. So that the only way to go was up, but no, I was not given that luxury. Pinkie had failed, and my life could still reach an even more regrettable state.
“That’s it! I’m done! We’ve tried Twilight’s way! We’ve tried Rarity's way! And we tried Pinkie’s way! It’s time to stop wasting time! Now we’re going it my way!” Rainbow Dash yelled before dashing into the cave at top speed and roundhouse bucking the large dragon in the snout. Her bravery would have been praised by many if it had worked. Instead, it would be much easier to pry her body off of the ground after the Dragon is done with her. But like the other mares she was knocked out of the cave, and this time, the Dragon decided to snake his way out as well.
Now mimicking Fluttershy, the Element as well as Trixie all quivered in fear as the Dragon looked down on them. Rolling my eyes again, my horn lightly glowed. In a dull flash, I teleported over to them and erected a small shield to block the dragon’s flames.
“That’s it?” I asked taken aback. “That’s your fire power? The boulders I stopped earlier from the average was hard to stop!” I yelled disappointingly.
Glaring at me, the Dragon twisted around and swung his tail at us. To my surprise, his tail smashed right through my shield, then into me, and finally into the mares. We were all swept to the side, slamming into a rock one of the many large rocks that peppered the cave’s opening.
“I don’t… t-think he liked that, M-Master.” Trixie coughed, but did I hear her? Not really. My brain was rattled from the impact, and I could feel my magic turning within my body. Curse this body! Why must it be so fragile? Why must it take time for my to heal from using my power? WHY?!
From there the rest of the events seemed like a blur. My mind was shifting left and right, as the magic within my body conflicted and fought itself. It was a war of confusion, one that even I was not able to make out. I heard Fluttershy yell, but I could not tell what had happened with the Dragon. But over and over I could hear Trixie’s voice calling me, begging and pleading, over and over, for me to return to her.
It had taken some time for me to come to, but when I did I saw the sky and seven mares looking down to me. Seven worried faces that all gave me a smile.
“Master? Can you hear me?” Trixie asked dropping her third person persona.
“Bishop, you ok sugar cube?” Applejack added.
“It would seem that I put more of a strain on myself then I thought…” I mumbled.
“That’s an understatement, Bishop,” Twilight scolded, “You didn’t just strain your magic, you nearly tore it in half!”
“Um, what?” Rainbow asked in utter confusion. “Twilight what does that even mean? And are you going to be ok, Bishop?”
“It means he over did it, Rainbow. After long days of work I sometimes strain myself too, so I can only imagine what you must be going through Darkling…” Rarity chimed in.
“Well, at least you’re not running a fever…” Fluttershy whispered as she placed a hoof on my forehead. No longer did she look scared of me, but instead concerned.
“So do you think he’s going to be alright, Twilight? Should I let everypony know that the party is going to be on hold for a day?” Pinkie inquired.
“He should be fine, so long as he doesn’t do anything besides the most basic levitation spells…” Twilight had answered, before holding her hoof out to me. “Why don’t we get you on your hooves and back into town?”
Reaching out with my own hoof, I took Twilight’s and with a little bit of effort, she had pulled me to my hooves. And though I didn’t show it, I was angry. Angry that being beneath me were helping me so, and caring for me as if I was their friend. It was endearing, but oh so shameful. This really how far I have fallen?
“Thank you, all of you, for your help and concern. Now, where did that Dragon go off to?” I asked.
“Oh, Fluttershy here told that Dragon right off!” Rainbow yelled. “She was like, how dare you ? And the Dragon was all like, please don’t yell at me, I’m sorry, I’ll leave and I’m nothing more than a big baby . You should have seen it! It was almost as cool as your fight with the Ursa!”
“You should be so mean to the Dragon, Rainbow. It’s not nice…” Fluttershy muttered.
“Yeah, sorry, but it was just so cool!” Rainbow gave a chuckle before dashing into the air.
“Well, jokes aside, you ok, Bishop?” Applejack asked.
I stood there for a moment, in silence and with my eyes closed. Was I ok? No. But I would rather not get into why I was not ok again. I do not wish to think about my life as of late. It had not been a week since I had been here, and I already hated everything. I needed something to make me smile, and not the fake one that I was giving to the mares. “I will be, don’t worry. But for now, I do think it’s time to leave this mountain…”
“He’s right, we should get back down to Ponyville. And girls, try not to cause another avalanche this time. I’m not as good with shield spells as Bishop, and he’s in no condition to make one right now.”
“Master?” I turned to Trixie, who looked a bit off. It was hard to tell if it was the look of shock and worry she held, or something more… “Are you alright? Do you need something from Trixie? Anything?”
“Not now, Trixie. Just stay by my side, and I will let you know if I do…” I ordered.
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Ten - Look Before You Sleep
Dormammu Fact
Dormammu is a mass murderer. He has killed trillions.
The party was… Enjoyable was not the right word, but something like it was. The words didn’t matter in the end, but the actions and joy of the ponies did. Their praise, thanks and love were enough to rejuvenate most of the power that I had used, even if my body was still in shock over everything. The food was average at best, but the wine was a good distraction. You would think that a great entity of magic, one made of fire, wound not be able to enjoy the flavors of wine. But you’d be wrong, and everyone is always wrong when it comes to what I can truly do. Of course, we’re not talking about broad statements. Ones that are always true not matter which way you look at it. My power being strong enough to kill a weak pony, for example, would be one of those statements.
But in the state I was just having the ability to kill was not enough. I needed influence, power, the will of the land, and with my body being weak, I would need to do it other ways. So late in the night, several hours after the party, and several more after every pony in the town had fallen asleep, I arose from my bed. Moving so that I would not wake Trixie, I slipped out into the night with little ease.
Retracing my steps from the hours before, I found my way to where I met with Twilight Sparkle, then began the walk to the Dragon’s lair once more. In the Dragon’s haste to leave, I had noticed that it’s hoard was still there. Just waiting to be taken. Taken and used for the betterment of my will, my power.
Stalking my movements from hours before, I quickly trotted up the mountain, and once at the peak, into the cave that awaited my prize. Even in the darkness, even with no light from the sky above, the gems and gold radiated through the cave. The mass amount of wealth that was on display could cause even the best of ponies to kill each other. And that… was my main point of this. My horn glowed brightly and a large black hole formed above the gold. Quickly every single bit, every single gem and every single item of worth was sucked into the black hole, one that lead to a pocket dimension of my creating. As I am a master of magic, even in my weakened state, I was able to pull this off.
Only it left me feeling worse than I had been when the Dragon broke my shield. But it was worth it. Oh so worth it. All I needed to do now was return to Trixie’s cart and go to sleep. No soul will know what happened, and I have a feeling that the Dragon will not return for its possession for some time, but by then it would be too weak to even face me. The question was now… Would I spare the Dragon’s life, make it my slave or show it what real fire was? Truth my told, ripping out its soul seems to be the more favorable option… As well as its heart, but that’s just icing on the cake.
But that does bring up the question as to why I should deal with it myself. But I already had the answer to that inquiry. A simple mare that I had under my control. A mare that I will mold into a servant worthy to call me her master.
The next day was uneventful, as was the day after that. Trixie was not necessary a slow learner, but she did pass every time I implanted the knowledge of how to use a new spell into her mind. And if you’re wondering how I’m able to do this, then you forget the fact that I am in control of her mind. At any given moment I can take over her mind, body, and will, and turn her into a puppet. Implanting memories into her mind was nothing compared to that, even if it took too long for her to wake up after each new spell!
“Wake up!” I yelled as I willed to existence a large amount of water above Trixie.
“Aaahh!” Trixie yelped before wiggling her way to her hooves.
“Three spells. Three basic spells and you’re not able to stand after learning the knowledge of each one,” I muttered. “If you are ever going to become great and powerful then you must endure! Because three spells in four hours is too slow…”
“Trixie is sorry Master, please forgive her,” Trixie begged as she slowly waddled her way to me. “Trixie is not as strong as you are, and it takes her time to become strong…”
“That is one thing we share…” I whispered to myself. “Very well, we shall stop for today. But I require you to head to town and fetch a few supplies.”
“Um, Master, Trixie hate to say this but we are nearly out of bits, and Trixie has not had time to-” I cut Trixie off with a flash of my horn and a small pile of bits rained down next to her.
“Pick them up and head into town. You will find what you are looking for on this-” My horn glowed as a parchment levitated out from the carriage and floated over to Trixie. “-scroll. Take your time, find each one, and don’t come back until you do.”
“Butterfly wings, rotten fruit of various kinds, three of every flower you come across... Master, are you going to make a potion?” Trixie asked as she read off the list.
“Yes, now get to it! And be careful not to damage them in any way!!” I yelled because my patience was now running thin with the mare.
It may be a good idea to learn the weather schedule of Ponyville before sending Trixie out to fetch me sensitive ingredients. The potion I was brewing wasn’t even that extensive of one. Any novice of the art could throw it together. It was a simple energy potion so that Trixie would not pass out after every test, and so that I won't have to waste my time waking her up... Or explode if you impact it with enough force. Both work, but I have yet to find a target that I wanted to test it on. Those colts that brought the Ursa would work, but my hate for them is next to none.
But as the hours started to drag on, and as the rain kept pouring down I started to get tired of waiting for the mare. I knew where she was too, as it wasn’t that hard finding her. I just had reach out and find the magic that I implanted into her when I first took over her will. She was at Twilight Sparkle’s home, and with her was Twilight, Applejack and Rarity. With a simple spell I could see what she was seeing, hear what she had heard, or even take assume control of her mind and body, and user her like a puppet. Even though she already is one, and I was already her puppet master.
But was I going to take the chance and find her telling them everything? No. My magic is strong, weak compared to what it was, but strong enough to control her. But even then, I had lost control of those I took under my wing before. And as my horn glowed, I laid down in Trixie’s bed, allowing myself to enter Trixie's mind.
“Trixie must admit, she does feel relaxed…” Trixie had mumbled as I entered her mind.
“What was that, Trixie?” Rarity asked before tapping on Trixie’s elbow with her own, and giving the mare a smile. “Relaxed are you?” Turning away from Rarity, Trixie lifted her head. Doing her best not to show how calm she was. But it didn’t do much as the three mares with her started to laugh.
“Well, I’m just glad that we all got over our little problem, and can start treating this like a real sleepover...” Applejack sighed in relief.
“What’s wrong, Applejack? Still annoyed over the fact that you lost the pillow fight?” Trixie smiled.
“Darling, I think we all lost once Twilight started to will pillow into existence, and almost burying us alive with them…” Rarity then shuttered.
“Well, you girls had to be stopped,” Twilight chuckled. “But good use of the teleporting spell, Trixie. It was really hard to hit you…”
“Yes, praise Trixie… Just don’t ask her to do it again, she’s kind of tired after using it so many times…” Trixie chattered. “Her horn is still a bit tingly over it.”
“I take it that’s a spell your master showed you? How do you train anyways?” Applejack asked.
“Oh, Master is a very good teacher and uses some techniques to help me never forget them,” Trixie beamed.
“And that being what, Darling?” Rarity noted.
“Oh, well, you see… Mmm, should Trixie give up how Master teaches her?” Trixie then asked herself. “It should be fine, after all, if a pony were to see they would ask questions…”
“I’m sure Bishop won't mind, Trixie,” Twilight remarked as she placed a hoof on Trixie’s shoulder. “He saved the town, and he trusts you.”
“You’re right, Twilight Sparkle,” Trixie began. “See, Master is good with memory spells, and instead of just explaining it to Trixie, he reaches out with his magic and implants his memory of the spell into her mind. It does make Trixie pass out he does it… But it works well, and Trixie is fine afterwards, don't worry!”
“Other than the fact that I have no idea what you said, I still have one very important question for you, Trixie…” Applejack broke in. “Why do you speak in the third person?”
As I pulled myself out of Trixie’s mind, I shook my head. They were right, I didn’t care if they knew how I thought Trixie. And with this rain, it was easy to tell that she was just sleeping over at Twilight’s home to stay out of the rain. But now, all I had to was wait. Wait for Trixie to return, and keep myself hidden.
“Waiting seems to be all that I do, and shall do for a long time,” I muttered to myself and I opened the door to the carriage. “Perhaps I should find something to help pass the time…”
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Eleven: Bridle Gossip Part 1
Dormammu Fact
Dormammu was formerly a part of the Hell-Lords. The Hell-Lords are powerful demons each in control of their respective 'Hell' dimensions and are known to use the title of "Satan" to manipulate mortals. From time to time groups of them meet to discuss issues concerning all of them. Some members include Mephisto and Hela.
It been a few days since I had to see what Trixie was doing, and in that time I can sum everything that happened up to one word. Disappointment. The potion worked for a single hour before Trixie had passed out from the four spells I had placed into her mind. They were even more basic than the day before. If it weren’t for the fact that she was asleep in the cottage, she would be the one that was going out to acquire the ingredients again, not myself.
But a question does arise from this. “Why is the entire town hiding in their homes…?!” I muttered to myself in anger. It wasn't that hard to sense their souls through the walls, or to make things even more simple, physically see them doing everything they can to hide away!
“Trixie has no idea, Master, but I’m sure if we ask them-” Trixie had started, but quickly fell to silence as I waved my hoof up in anger.
“Rhetorical question, Trixie…” I muttered before my eyes drifted over to Sugarcube Corner. It was in the distance, but even with how far away it was I could see the signs of several ponies staring out of the window. That and I could sense five of the Element in there, and thus I beeline to the building.
Popping her head out from the front door, Pinkie’s eyes were wide. She quickly looked to the left, then her eyes darted right. “Bishop! Trixie! Get over here fast!” She yelled in a whispered tone. But even to a simple colt, it was easy to tell that she was scared… Scared of something.
“And what are you scared of, Miss Pie?” I asked as Trixie and myself made our way to the entrance of Sugar Cube Corner.
“J-just get in here and I’ll explain!” Pinkie cried.
Rolling my eyes, I made my way past Pinkie, with Trixie following quickly behind. The room was dark, but not dark enough to not see the four mares hiding in the dark. “Applejack, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Rarity-” I then noticed two very small ponies standing behind them. One I knew, and the other I did not. “- Sweetie Belle, and…” I trailed off, looking at the new foal.
“Um, hi my name is Apple Bloom…” She stuttered, her eyes sparkling as she looked at me. “A-Are you… B-Bishop?”
“Ok, Bishop, you need to listen very carefully!” Pinkie Pie yelled as she bounced in front of me, then promptly taking in a deep breath.
In the time that I had been in ponyville, I had learned that ponies liked to sing. Sing very annoying songs, over and over! So the moment that Pinkie started to sing I reached out with my magic and forced her mouth shut. “Don't sing,” I bluntly ordered with a growl. “Please…” I quickly added.
“Oh alright… “ Pinkie mumbled when I released my grip. “But are you sure? I spent all night making it…” She then asked, only to be turned down again by my glare. “Ol, so, um, there is this evil mare named Zecora comes into town every so often, and she lives in the Everfree forest-”
“And she uses evil magic!” Rainbow added in.
“And she’ll cast an evil spell on you, and take over your mind!” Applejack blurted out. I had to hold myself back from laughing at that statement, considering that I had done exactly what they had just proclaimed to Trixie.
“Surely you are all joking?” I asked.
“Well jokes aside, she’s an oddity, and we don’t like to take chances, Darling!” Rarity added in.
“Have y'all ever spoken to this Zecora?” Apple Bloom asked.
“Of course not, Apple Bloom! If we did we would become mindless zombies!” Rainbow nearly yelled.
“You never know when she’ll strike,” Trotting over to the window, Pinkie eyed the road while occasionally looking back to me. “You’ll never know when she’ll appear-” Pinkie trailed off before dashing over the door. “Twilight! Come here! Hurry!” She then yelled, and quickly Twilight made her way to us before Pinkie dragged her in the last few feet.
After that, I rolling my eyes at the fact that Twilight had asked the same questions as I had. Great minds do think alike, but that would imply that Twilight was close to my level of intelligence. She wasn’t, but even then we weren’t really facing off against the masterminds of the universe. And as the lesser beings started to covers with each other, I made my back to the window. If this Zecora was mischievous as they say she was, then I could use her as a pawn for my own gain. I had no worries over her so called ability to brainwash another, and even if those accusations were nothing more than just the fears of ponies I dueled with, it would not matter. I can give her those abilities, just in case I ever need a fallback plan.
I then had to stop Pinkie from singing a second time...
“Do you see anything?” Rarity asked as she joined me next to the window. “Oh no! There she is!” She then called out, and quickly all the mares dashed over to the window along side me.
“What’s she doing?” Rainbow asked, as we all watched a cloaked figure slowly trot her way to the middle of the road, and then probably start digging with a hoof.
“Is she digging a hole?” Applejack asked.
“AN EVIL HOLE!” Pinkie yelled.
“Will you all stop yelling? Trixie’s ears are starting to hurt!” Trixie requested.
“Oh, sorry…” Pinkie found.
“I’m going to go speak with her,” I announced, making all the mares gasp very loudly.
“Didn’t Trixie just ask all of you to stop being so loud?” Trixie asked again, this time rubbing her ear.
“You can’t go out there! You’ll be taken over, Bishop!” Pinkie yelled as she dashed over to the door.
“Pinkie’s right, you’d be taken over! What if she makes you attack the town?” Applejack asked.
“I don’t want to think about that…” Rainbow found.
“Aren't y'all over reacting?” Apple Bloom asked.
“Yeah, this all kind of seems overblown…” Sweetie Belle muttered.
“Trixie, stay here,” I ordered as I made my way over to Pinkie while my horn glowed.
“I’m sorry, Bishop but I can’t-” Pinkie squeaked as I walking into her, then through her. “-aaaaagh!” She screamed as I passed my way outside. It was more of a shocked scream, after all, that spell doesn't hurt those that I pass through.
“Bishop! Don’t!” Pinkie yelled, but I was already on my way over to the mare.
“Excuse me,” I called out, getting her attention. “My name is Dire Bishop, and I’d like to make your acquaintance.”
The figure stared at me for a moment, her face hidden by her hood. “I am Zecora… And I’ve never met a pony with such a dark aura…” She stuttered in shock.
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Twelve: Bridle Gossip Part 2
Dormammu Fact
Some people find pleasure in friends, family or fun activities. Dormammu finds pleasure in taking over worlds. The murder of trillions… Things that are really, really evil.
“You’re quite perceptive, but you do not have to worry about me, Zecora. I wish you no-”
“You must be the one that has caused the Everfree to go wild, and in turn destroyed my domicile...” She stated annoyed.
“I assume this has to do with the Ursa Major that I had stopped, but the destruction of your home has nothing to do with me,” I complained.
“Your magic is wild, as is the Everfree when you battled it must have caused the forest to act oddly…” She murmured as she drifted her gaze to the ground. “My apologies for marking the blame on you, I’m just flustered from all of this hullabaloo. It is an oddity to meet one that could face such a grizzly beast. If I still had a home I would offer you a feast.”
“Oh you do not need to worry about that, the ponies here in Ponyville threw a party for me. Now what might bring you into town?” I asked, putting on a face smile.
“As I have no home, and I must find new supplies. So that it is bearable living under the night skies,” She rhymed, as she threw down her hood revealing that she was a Zebra. A bruised Zebra that looked as if she went through a fight with an Avenger. “I just wish I knew where all of the ponies have gone, for I have things I must pawn.”
“I think I can help you with that,” I started. Then looking over to where I had come from, Sugarcube Corner, I gave a quick wave. “See, ponies here are easy to scare. Given that they were attacked by an Ursa, I’m sure you can understand. But then you’re an oddity, something they don’t know, and so they hide from you, and quiver in fear.”
“I mean them no harm, I mean them no alarm,” She stuttered with a cough. “Would you mind introducing them to me, and perhaps we could have some tea?” She requested.
I placed my hoof under my chin and gave her a good looking over. Was this Zecora up to the standards that ponies made her out to be? No, but she was perceptive enough to sense my presence. Meaning getting in her good favor would be a wise idea, and given how I had recovered from my ordeals with the Ursa, and even grew stronger because of it, I knew I had the power for one quick spell. One that would implant the seeds I need to help take over her mind so that I can use her perceptive nature for my own use.
“Before that, you need tending to. With your permission, I could use my magic to heal you?” I asked.
“If you are skilled enough with magic then do so, please. I feel as if I am about to fall to my knees…” She grimaced, only for my magic glow to wash over her, and all of her wounds vanish.
“You’d be surprised at how throwing fire at an Ursa Major is harder than healing some simple wounds. Now come on, there are seven mares and two fillies in the store behind me that I can introduce you to,” I remarked. “And you’ll find them quite… friendly.”
“Your power is remarkable, I do apologise for stating it as evil,” Zecora gasped before quickly moving to catch up to me. “Thank you, Bishop, for your cooperation, if I still had a home I would offer you a token of my appreciation.”
“Think nothing of it,” I smiled, as we made our way to the front door of Sugarcube Corner. “Pinkie,” I then called out. “Open up, Zecora's not bad, and you all were just being paranoid!” There was no answer from the door, but instead a swish from the shutters in the window.
“Trixie, open the door!” I yelled, only to hear something crash from inside of the house, then the sounds of a struggle.
“Sorry about the wait, Master,” Trixie grumbled as the door quickly swung open to reveal the Element a rather disgruntled Trixie. Behind her was the Bearers of Harmony, and other than Rarity, Twilight, and Fluttershy they were laying in a pile next to the counter.
“No don’t open the door!” Rainbow yelled.
“She’ll do her evil dances!” Pinkie added.
“Forget her dances, she took over Bishop! We best run for the hills!” Applejack pointed out.
“Oh, that’s it, enough...” I growled. “Enough with your silly, foal-like claims about Zecora being evil. She just lost her home in the Everfree by the wild it contains! Show some hospitality!” I snapped. “And no, she didn’t take over my mind! Not even Celestia has the power to take control of my mind!”
I had to play nice, but only to a point. I may be a god that can wait years for events to unfold, but these ponies find very quick ways to wane my patient down to nothing. That, and putting in a nice act towards Zecora will help me gain her trust. So much so that she won't see me coming!
“You should all put more faith in my Master, he’s quite great and extremely powerful…” Trixie nodded.
“So you’re, Zecora? The one that lives in the Everfree?” Apple Bloom asked.
“Zecora is my name, but the Everfree is no longer my home, I must proclaim. For my home was destroyed, and the Everfree is now a place that I avoid…” She said sadly.
“Your home got destroyed?” Sweetie Belle asked, trotting over to Apple Bloom’s side. “Oh, and, um, I’m Sweetie Belle.”
“It is nice to meet both of you, but I must request a place to sit. Even if Bishop healed me, my body still hurts just a tad bit.” Zecora grimaced, letting her head droop a bit.
“Here,” Twilight offered, as a chair slid over to her, along with a table. “Take a seat, and show to my friends here that you’re a nice mare.” Twilight then gave all of her friends a glare. “And my name is Twilight Sparkle. Nice to meet you, Zecora.”
“Thank you, Twilight,” She signed, letting herself go limp in the chair. I knew my magic healed her body, but it might have been a good idea to heal her exhaustion. But both ways worked. “I can finally relax after such a long fight…”
“What do you mean about Bishop healed you?” Rarity asked.
“I healed her,” I commented.
“It’s a straightforward statement, Rarity. Not that hard to understand…” Trixie added.
“Oh, that’s not what I meant…” Rarity huffed. “Anyways, my name is Rarity. The three mares in the pile are Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash, and the quiet mare behind me is Fluttershy… You know what, you’ve actually been more quiet than usual, Fluttershy. Is something wrong?”
“I’m sorry… I just don’t really have anything to say…” Fluttershy sighed.
“It is nice to have met such friendly faces, especially after such unpleasant graces. I do apologise if I seem down, or if I give you a frown.” Zecora offered.
“Well, she seems alright… Kind of,” Applejack muttered to herself. “If you don’t mind me asking, but what are you so down?”
“Given the context, Trixie says that her home must have been destroyed.” Trixie chimed.
“Ok, so, you’re not evil… But why live in the Everfree?” Rainbow asked. “I mean, your home just got destroyed. You should have seen this happening…” But before Zecora could answer there was a screaming coming from outside. Rushing over to the window, we found the world engulfed in black vines.
“What’s going on?” Applejack asked in horror.
“No, this is what destroyed my home! No, no, no, the evil of the forest must be on the roam!” Zecora yelled.
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Thirteen: Bridle Gossip Part 3
Dormammu Fact
During World War 2, Dormammu gained power by absorbing the destruction that raged throughout the earth, but Doctor Strange stopped him. How was Doctor Strange around at that time? Time magic. It’s less bullshit the less you think about it.
“What’s going on? Zecora, what’s going on?!” Rainbow asked, as the screams from the ponies outside came screeching through the window.
“The Evil of the Everfree is coming-” There was an explosion from the kitchen, cutting Zecora off. And at a quick glance, I could see large vines slithering their way out of the sink. “Oh no, they are coming out of the plumbing!”
“Girls, we go to get everypony out of town!” Twilight yelled, but at this point, I had stopped listening to them.
“Master, Trixie suggests that we run…” Trixie had muttered, but I gave her a smile.
“Trixie, teleport back to the carriage. Wait there for me. You’ll be safe there…” I ordered quietly, as I made my way to the window.
I started to laugh as I watched the vines wrap their way onto a building, then promptly caving inward and destroying it. It was a low chuckle, not loud enough for the mares around me to hear, but one that showed just how excited I was. Before me was but a fraction of the chaotic power held in this world, a power that I had hoped to take claim to in time. But now? Now was my opportunity to take it! I don’t know exactly why it was here, or just why it was coming from the Everfree Forest, but I am NOT complaining!
My horn glowed and I allowed my magic to go wild. The mares around me let out a scream as I blew the window, as well as the surrounding wall, out. Rushing forward, flames wrapped around my hooves and I leaped up, taking to the sky to get a better view of what I was dealing with. As I did the vines all sprouted up, flinging themselves up at me. My laugh started to get louder, and louder as they homed in on me.
Throwing up a shield, the black vines impacted it with little effect. Thrashing and smacking, the vanes tried desperately to get to me, but with each impact, I could feel the magic they held within calling to me. All I needed to do was reach out, and take it! As one of the smaller vines moved into to smack the shield, I dissipated the shield around where it was going to impact, only to instantly close it around the vine; trapping it with me. Tilting my head down, I charged forward and impaled the vine. It squirmed for just a moment, before withering away, as I forced the magic it held out of it and into my body.
And there it was. Chaotic power flowing through my pony body! I could feel my fire growing, and with a quick glance down to my own body, I found myself taking on aspects of my original form. And now as I flew high in the sky with my whole body ablaze, I allowed my shield to fall so that I could unleash my power, and show the ponies of Ponyville why they should not fear this plant…
“They should fear… me!” I laughed to myself, as I threw my magic out in every which way. Massive chains of fire burst from my form and implied root after root, setting them on fire as I drained the magic from them.
Now seeing me as a major threat, what remained of the roots turned their attentions to me, instead of the ponies in town. Even going as far as to release several of them just to try to sum of the power to stop me. It didn’t work, because the flames of my body just grew stronger and stronger with each root I burn, destroy, and drain! And the only sounds that could be heard through Ponyville was my laughing, the crackling of my fire, and the sounds of the charred roots fading to ash, just before they got blown away in the wind.
But was all this power going to go to waste? No, it was not! Now I had more energy than ever, and I could feel the chaotic magic of the world around me. Ponyville was not the only place these roots were. I could feel them spreading all across Equestria. From up near the frozen wastelands of the North, to the dry deserts of the Southeast, I could tell that the power that I obtained today was just a fraction of what I could gain. I could gain more power, and all I needed to do was just go and take it for myself!
But I’m not an idiot.
In doing so I would grow too strong, too quickly. My pony form was still too weak for that. Even now as I burned as bright as I once had, with flames and all, I could feel my body being destroyed from the inside out. It was an insult to who I was! To what I had been… But this was the life that I had given myself, just so that I could live, and I was not going to let my ignorance cause me to fail me again… And I could feel something even stranger in this world.
A weak power coming from the Everfree forest.
“Sparkle!” I yelled in a booming voice that could be heard from the whole town. “I will go to the source of this problem and take care of it! I leave the lives of the ponies here in your hooves!”
And with that, I leave the ponies of Ponyville in more ways than one. Not just physically as I flew my way over the center of the Everfree forest, but mentally. Leaving them with the thoughts that I was here to save them from this tragedy like I had done so before. If they only knew what I would do to them once I was at my full power… They would make fine servants, at most. Perhaps food for my minions of not.
“Now where is that faint power coming from…” I muttered to myself as I gazed down into the Everfree. It didn’t take long for me to find what I was here for, and as my eyes rested on a cave, I had to start laughing to myself.
The strange weak power that I felt coming from the Everfree was the same power that came from the six element bearers. And as I floated my way down into the cave I found it fading away. But I could feel the worry it held. I didn’t care for these plants, no, it knew who the real demon was, and as I slowly made my way closer to it I could tell just why it was withering away so quickly. It was using the last of its power to call for aid. To let those of the universe know that I was still alive. It allowed the chaos of these vines to take hold of it because it knew that there was a much, much more deadly foe at its doorstep.
But I’m not an idiot.
If it’s call for help is answered then I would be done for. If everything I had done up to this point was for nothing because this thing wanted to thwart my plans then I may as well take my own life now.
“I’m sorry, but I can’t let you do that…” I muttered, placing a hoof on the tree. “Oh, don’t fret, Tree of Harmony… Your calls to the stars will go unheard, at least, for quite some time… And by then I’ll have gained enough power to leave this world. But the question is this…” I let out a sigh as I let my fire fade, and my body quickly returned to normal. “How many ponies will die before that moment? How many will die before someone comes and stops me? The answer is up to know, depending on how you answer my next question… Yes or no, do you want your ponies to live? To do you want this world to burn, like so many others?”
Though the tree could not speak, I could still feel the echoes of sadness vibrate through it. I knew what it wanted. It wanted peace, it wanted harmony, and if it was not as weak as it was, it would have sealed me away right then and there. In comparison of power, if I had come here when I first arrived I would be dead! Killed by this tree of peace…
“Allow me to bring balance into your world, and I will spare your ponies the death in time to come. Allow me to place a piece of myself within you to take ahold of this chaos in the world, and I will spare all lives on this backwater rock…” I offered. “You asked for help, but you didn’t ask from where… Take this deal, or watch as your harmony fades forever…”
And with that, my threads of chaos had been sown into the world.
It didn’t take long after that for the vines of chaos to fade away. With a piece of my magic within the Tree of Harmony, and in return a piece of its magic within me, it was able to wrangle the last of the vines with little effort, and I did grow in power because of the whole ordeal. The exchange did require quite a bit of work on my part, and the power that I had gained today was gone, but it won't be for long. Like a lake of lava that is ever expanding once emptied it will be filled again… But my lava lake was drained, and yet again I was magically exhausted. Force to walk back to Ponyville, slowly, left alone to my thoughts. Normally I would take the time to assess what had happened, and to adjust my plans as I saw them, but with the magic, drain came another headache… The creatures of the forest knew well enough to not bother me at this point, so it was more of an annoying slog than anything.
“Trixie,” I yelled at the top of my lungs, as I could see the carriage from over the hill. “Get the cart ready, the battle with the plants has left me drained once again!”
“Master?” Trixie started, popping her head over the cliff side.
“Bishop?” Twilight then said, popping up next to her.
My eye started to twitch as one by one, ponies made their way over the hill, and I had to muster up all that I was to put on a fake smile. There was the Apple family, several foals and colts, the element welders, and even the town drunk. I only knew of here because Trixie had gone on a ten-minute rant about her, which was rather amusing at the time.
Faking an injury, and allowing the weakness of my body to fold over me, I stumbled to the side before landing on the ground. All of the ponies let out a gasp and rushed to my aid. I put on a smile as they did, partly because it was to show them what I wanted them to see, but also because this was just one step I had to take for recovery.
“You saved us again, Bishop!” Twilight smiled.
“Th-thank you…” Fluttershy muttered even though I could barely hear her over the crowd.
“You’re a real hero!” Apple Bloom called out.
“Perhaps my worries were in the wrong place, for we would all be goners if it was not for your heroic grace...” Zecora had rhymed.
“Master, shall I take you to your bed?” Trixie had asked, and with a simple nod, she had used her magic to teleport us past the crowds and into the cottage. Then turning around, with the door wide open, Trixie pulled up a bright pink megaphone with Pinkie’s name on it. “Master requests rest, and relaxation, and requests that you all leave him be for now. Also, Miss Pie, you left your megaphone here two days ago, and Trixie won’t give it back.”
The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Fourteen: Bridle Gossip Part 4
Dormammu Fact
In one of the stories with Dormammu, one that I did not use for this story, it was Thor that ended Dormammu’s life, alongside Dr. Strange.
Again I found my body is a state of flux, where my magic was gone and I was weak. The night had rolled over slowly, and I kept finding myself awake. My body was withering away from the exhaustion and strain of using all the magic that I just obtained, yet my mind was racing faster and faster. It was the battle of two worlds, and there was only one way to end it. Find something for my mind to think of while I give my body time to rest, or put my body at risk and seek out an avenue of entertainment for myself.
Before I came to this world, when I had to deal with this little debacle, I would head down to the dungeons to hear the screaming of the damned that I held down there, or out to my balcony to smell the ashes of my realm. Here in Equestria I didn’t either of those options.
Stepping out of bed, I stepped over the sleeping form of Trixie and pushed out into the night. The moon was high in the sky and casted an easy light on the land. It was then that I took a deep breath, only to find the smells of ash in the air. This was odd at first, but the feeling of confusion left me. Something must have been burning, and it probably was pony related. I looked around to see if there was a raging fire near us, only to find none. Not even a great glow in the distance of great fire. No, I only found the glow of the night sky. Taking another deep breath, I glanced to my south. The smell was coming from upwind, and I knew if I followed it I would find the fire’s source. It had to be the smell of an extinguished campfire or the remains of a tree or two that had been burned to the ground.
Pushing my way into a bush, I could hear the sounds of someone leaping to their hooves. “Who goes there?” The voice of Zecora called out. “Please don’t be another bear…” She then muttered to herself.
I lazily stepped forward, and put a tired smile on my face. “Don't worry, Zecora, it’s just-” I was cut off mid sentence as my body forced me to take a deep yawn. “-me…”
“Oh, Dire Bishop it’s good to see you up from your rest,” Zecora smiled, letting her body relax. “Come and sit. Be Zecora's guest.” She offered, before looking at the dire campfire next to her.
With a frown, she moved to get the fire burning again, but with a smile spark from my horn the campfire was burning again. “So what keeps you awake at this hour?” I asked, trying to find something for my mind to be distracted on.
“My fears,” She answered quietly. “When I dream, I see my home, and that brings me to tears.”
“I understand the feelings of losing your home,” I started, thinking of my dimension that I had lost when I was taken down by the hands of Doctor Strange. I wonder what happened to my home? Did one of my servants rise to the top and take my place, or was my home invaded by another? Did my sister take over, or did Doctor Strange seek out to pure my powers there? “I know them all too well.”
“Thank you,” Zecora then went on. “I am glad that I was wrong about you, Bishop, and that my fears were untrue. I no longer sense an evil presence within you, like before. I believe my awareness has grew, because now I can feel something more.”
I smiled at the Zebra, this time understanding what she could do just a little more. And she was not wrong, I now did hold light inside of me. Light gained from the Tree of Harmony… But what interested me now was her awareness. Her connection with the world, and how I could use her.
“Tell me, Zecora, how would you like to join Trixie and I? As it stands, you no longer have a home, and I’m looking to find a larger domicile…” I offered.
“That is quite generous of you,” Zecora smiled. “But I am not quite sure as to what I should do…”
“Just say yes and shake my hoof?” I offered, holding out a hoof.
She let out a laugh, before reaching her hoof to mind. “Very well-” She froze in place as her hoof touched mine, and I smiled.
“What’s wrong?” I asked, as I stood up with her hoof still clenched in mine. “Feel a bit odd?” I laughed, before my horn started to glow brighter.
It had worked. Even in my weak state, where even Trixie could best me in a magical duel, my power had started to wash itself into Zecora. She was stunned, frozen from the horrors that she felt from me. And with her fear… came obedience.
“What can I do for you, Master Dormammu?” She then asked as I finished castin my spell. Like when I first took over Trixie, Zecora expression was dull. She didn’t sound the same, and her eyes were a milky white.
“Now, now, Zecora. How am I supposed to stay undercover with you acting like that? Call me Dire Bishop, speak in rhyme like you would normally, and act yours-” I ordered, only to be cut off my a yawn. “Damn this body…” I then muttered in anger, before shaking it off. “Act yourself…” With another glow of my horn, I used the last of my magical power to wash away the main obvious effects of my mind control from Zecora.
“I understand, and am at your command…” Zecora then started, giving me a bow. “And I is thankful that you allowed me to join you, and giving me the chance to show you what I can do.”
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The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Fifteen: Swarm of the Century Part 1
Dormammu Fact
Dormammu does not have a romantic interest, nor has he ever had one. He has had offspring, but they were created through magical means. (If you're aware of something I don't, let me know in the comments.)
“So that will be five-hundred bits per acre… Planned to be paid for over the next few months...” Mayor Mare muttered as she shifted through a few papers. “Are you sure you’re able to pay for this, Bishop? It’s quite a bit of land you’re playing for…”
“Just tell me what the prince is, Mayor, so that I can begin construction on my home as soon as possible...” I commented.
“Yes, Master Bishop time is worth bits, and this is taking too long…” Trixie added, from the chair next to me while she tapped her hoof over and over. “Trixie’s just glad that she’ll have her own bed to sleep in… And a bathroom…”
“Well, it’s two-thousand for the land, not including tax… Do you wish to be connected to ponyville’s water supply, or will you be constructing your own? This does include plumbing, meaning you’ll have to worry about all the negatives that come with that...” Mayor Mare asked.
“I shall be constructing my own…” I answered.
“Do you wish to have insurance? I recommend it because Ponyville seems to-”
“That won't be necessary,” I interrupted.
“Oh, um, very well… The total then is two-thousand-five-hundred-and-five bits. How many months do you wish to be paying for this? The minimum we are legally allowed is three months, while the maximum is ten years.” She asked.
“Three months shall be fine, and if my math is right, that’s eight-hundred-and-thirty-five per month… Now can we please get on to signing the papers?” I grumbled, already tired of dealing with this silly mare.
“Yes, of course, and once we are done here I will show you to your plot of land.” Mayor Mare smiled.
It had been three days since my altercation with the Tree of Harmony, in that time I was able to recover. My body was adapting, I was growing in power, and my reputation for my actions was spreading. In just a few hours time Princess Celestia would be arriving in Ponyville. Here to speak with the Dread Lord… Oh, I do so miss my titles… All of them. And the screams of the damned… The smell of the ashes… Oh, how easy it is to see how far I have fallen.
But now was not the time to think of such problems, for I had to begin construction of my new home. The price of which will take but a fraction of what I acquired from the Dragon’s lair, but even then, as of now I do not need a castle, but a simple home. The castle comes later, and even then, I may acquire one from an older time. After all, the reconstruction of the old castle within the Everfree would take much more magic than I have available to me, and the plans I have for that involves time magic. Something that I don’t think my body will be able to pull off anytime soon…
“Alright, that’ll be eight-hundred-and-thirty-five bits.” Mayor Mare stated, looking at me expensively.
I glanced at one of the walls in the room, and my horn glowed lightly. The wall began to shift and change shape forming into a door that quickly popped open. “Trixie,” I started, as both Trixie and Mayor Mayer’s jaws hit the floor. “Count out the bits.”
“Y-yes, Master!” Trixie stuttered, almost falling to the ground in her quick haste to answer my call.
“Now, while she’s getting the bits, hand over the legal documentation so that I may look over it…” I chuckled. “And get your jaw up off of the floor, it’s unprofessional.”
Truth be told, if it was not I that had asked to buy land, then the Mayor would have told me to shove off. Since the Princess was coming quite soon, she had much work to do. Along with everypony else within this town. Honestly, I understand their worry. I would sometimes visit the world's that I had conquered, and they had to prepare for my arrival. But I doubted that Princess Celestia would kill those that fail to bring her a warm welcoming, like have done so many times.
“Y-yes, you’re right…” Mayor Mare muttered.
It was hard to tell if I had grown accustomed to ponyville in the short amount of time that, or my sanity was dying. But as I walked through the town, I had little thoughts of destruction like I had before. I was just glad that I didn’t have the feeling of enjoyment when I saw the happy faces of the ponies we walked by. But yet, they all just seemed a bit more bearable than normal.
“If you don’t mind telling Trixie, Master, what are your ideas for your new home?” Trixie asked as she trotted to along behind me. “A castle, or a manor? Or perhaps a simplistic home like these here in ponyville?”
“A manor,” I commented. “Though to keep it hidden from the stars it will match the appeal of the town around us.”
“A wise decision, if Trixie says so...” Trixie had started, only to trail off. “Master, it would seem that Pinkie Pie wishes to speak with us...”
With a quick glance towards Trixie, I followed her gaze to see the Pink mare dashing towards us in a panicked haste. “Bishop!” She had cried out. “Three things! One; Rarity is looking for you! She wants to make you! Two; Twilight is looking for you!” She huffed. “And three; you would not happen you have a harmonica, a french horn, an accordion, a banjo, and/or some cymbals?”
It took me a moment to process her request, and my answer was that of a facepalm. “Thank you for letting me know that those two are looking for me, but no… I don’t have any of those things… Now, why do you ask?”
“Because we have a problem! A big problem! A parasprite problem!” She hollered, before dashing off without another word.
“What do you think that was about, Master?” Trixie asked.
“I don't know, nor do I really care…” I muttered. “But it would seem that we have something else to do. Come to, Trixie, Rarity’s shop is the closer of the two. We'll go there first.”
“Trixie wonders if she goes custom request…” Trixie muttered to herself. “A request, Master... Do you think Trixie would look better in dark red or black?” Trixie asked.
“I don’t see why you’re asking me this, or why you’re even wondering what you would look better in…” I muttered to myself.
“Trixie wishes to wear something that matches you, Master…” Trixie had stuttered.
“In that case, I’ll throw something together for you, just try not to bother me with such simple things,” I growled.
Rarity was the holder of the Element of Generosity, and she made clothing for a living. So it was an easy guess to say that her gift to me was clothing. I even recall her saying something like that before. But to my surprise what she had planned for me was something of actually worth. Something that I would be proud to wear and all she needed was my measurements.
“How long do you think this will take to make?” I asked. “Celestia will be coming in a few hours, and if I wear this, I know that I’ll look acceptable in the presence of royalty.”
“Oh you don’t need to worry about that, you know,” Rarity had chimed. “You’re quite a handsome stallion, I can assure you!”
“It would seem that Rarity has quite the interest in you, Master…” Trixie had joked.
“That’s not what I meant, darling…” Rarity stated quickly. “I just meant that you’re handsome, Bishop. Nothing more…”
A part of me wanted to slap them both for their comments, but I knew that would not be wise. “You don’t have to worry about such things, Rarity. I care little for your comments, but thank you none the less.”
“Well with that said, tell me, how do you keep such a strong physique?” Rarity asked as she placed her hoof on my chest. She had less of a look of attraction on her face and more to one of confusion. “You feel like you’re made of stone… But at the same time, your muscles don’t seem stressed…”
“Rarity, Trixie does not like how you’re copping a feel on the master…” Trixie joked again.
“Another comment like that Trixie and you’re sleeping outside tonight.” I then added, making Trixie break into a bow.
“Trixie apologizes!” She groveled.
“Um, her insanity aside, what do you do, Bishop? I mean, I know you go out and face with Ursa Majors and Dragons, but that would just mean you’re strong with magic, not the body…” Rarity then commented.
The truth behind this was that I made my body to be perfect. I did fail, however, but it was something that I had to live with. But what would be a good lie to tell? Something simple would work, but I Dormammu could do better than that. “The magical strain that I put my body through every few days has the negative effect of making my body weight more, and thus, my body is forced to grow stronger or be ripped apart from the inside out. It brings immeasurable pain, the likes of which would kill lesser stallions.”
“Wait… WHAT?” Rarity yelled. “Bishop, please tell me you’re joking?!”
“No. I’m not joking with you, Rarity.” I lied.
“And you climbed up the mountain to face the Dragon for us, even when your body was in pain?” She asked in a high pitched voice.
“Yes, but it was not much of a problem to face.” I lied again.
“I don’t know if I should hit you for being stupid, and doing such a thing, or thank you for being so brave…” Rarity murmured before shaking her head. “How about I just finish up this jacket for you, instead?”
“That is why I am here, after all,” I smiled. “Now, if I recall correctly, this is a gift, right?” I then asked as an idea came to my head.
“Well, yes…” Rarity answered.
“Tell me, do you know the value of gems and diamonds?” I asked.
“Well, yes…” Rarity answered, only this time in somewhat of a cocky tone. “I can appraise the value of anything you find, and am willing to buy a few gems off you for my work. At a lowered rate, as I do have to make a prophet.”
“As I recalled, you said you were this close when it came to getting that diamond?” I had asked, holding my hooves and placing them just inches apart.
“I… don’t know what you’re talking about.” Rarity stammered.
“Sure you don’t,” My horn flashed, as I forced my magic into my pocket dimension. And with a flicker the massive diamond that Rarity had attempted to grab from the dragon was now within my hooves.
Rarity’s eyes widened and she let out a gasp. “I-Is that…?”
“How much is this worth?” I asked.
“You… you snagged it from the Dragon...” She muttered. “You… you lucky dog!” Dashing her way to me, she wrapped her hoof around me and shot me a smile. “I would say this diamond is worth at least one thousand- no! Two thousand bits…”
“Then consider this payment for any work that I, Trixie, and Zecora need you to do in the future.” I had offered, holding the diamond up to her.
“Y-you’re giving this to me?” Rarity asked, with a look of shock that made her one before looking nothing more than a smile.
“Do you agree to these terms, Rarity?” I asked again.
“Y-yes, Darling, yes!” She yelled.
“Good, now get your hoof off of me…” I snarled.
“Oh, ah, sorry…” Rarity sheepishly pulled away from while her gaze was still fixed on the diamond.
“Good… Now with that said… Trixie! You said you need something done?” I barked out. “Well do it now, and when you’re done meet me at Twilight’s home. I’ll be there answering the questions she has…”
“Of course, Master!” Trixie bowed. “Now Rarity, Trixie have a few ideas for you, and wishes to know what you think of them…”
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The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Sixteen: Swarm of the Century Part 2
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The Dreaded One, Dormammu
Chapter Seventeen: Fall Weather Friends Part 1
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