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A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Prologue: Happiness Is Sure To Lead To Tragedy
The country side comes into view, the sun shinning and the sky is as blue as could be. A child with pale skin and long messy black hair and vivid gold eyes runs down the main road on the way home from his usual adventures out in the woods. He was in a hurry as he promised his mother he would help with the daily chores before the sun started to set. His leather boots stomped the ground as he tried to get him with all his might. His clothing clung to his form, making his movements easy when he ran.
"Oh gods, I am going to be late if I don't pick up the pace. Mother is going to never let me here the end of it, that's for sure..."
He said as he kept on running down the road. Eventually he made it to the crossroads that lead to his village, after he had made the right turn and came over the hill top, through the small wooded area he used as a shortcut. He came to the next hill that lead him into his village, but something was off. There was sound of screaming, and thick black smoke rising from the whole village. He ran over the hill and stood at the top of it.
(End music here and que the next)
His eyes widened in horror at what he saw. Homes burning and people being slaughter by invading bandits with swords and spears. A large group of them on the other hill raining arrows with fire on them on the village below.
"Mother, father..my friends!"
He exclaimed in panic as he ran down the hill and into the town, running passed the bandits avoiding their attempts at trying to catch him. He ran and ran until he made it to his home, it was burning badly. He ran inside as came to find both his mother and father lying on the floor bleeding profusely from stab and cut wounds. tears flowing from the boy's eyes at what he saw when he ran in. He runs to their side and begins to shake them, trying to get them to move.
"Mother...father, wake up please! We have to get out of here. Their are a lot of bandits here. Please we need to go!"
Both of his parents looked to him with half opened eyes, they smiled weakly and coughed up a bit of blood.
"Ah..Zikel...you made it back...you kept your promise to mommy..."
She coughs up more blood and shakily reaches over to him,placing her cold hand on his
"Zikel...you need to get out of here. It's too late for us dear. Leave this place before they get you to..."
"I can't! I can't leave you two here to die. Please...I need you both!"
He screamed as more tears seemed to pour from his eyes. The house was burning more and more, the structure threatening to come crushing down on all of them
"Listen to your mother my son. It is more important that you live and continue with my legacy as one of the few shadowmancers here in this world. Take the secret pathway I have told you about in the main room. Go in the room and grab the books I have set out for you...and take the shadow dagger with you. You will need it my boy..."
The father coughed up more blood as well. They both looked to Zikel with weak smiles, both of their cold hands on his now
"We love you Zikel...don't ever forget that. We will be watching over you. Now go.."
"But I-"
"GO!"
They both shouted at him. He closes his eyes hard and reluctantly leaves them. He makes it to the fireplace and pulls on a hidden lever pushing the fireplace aside a bit and then closing it, he heard the house collapse from behind it and begins to run down the long halfway with tears still streaming down his face, he lets out screams of emotional pain and sadness as he runs. he falls to the ground as he gets to where his father had told him to go. Laying there and sobbing for a few moments before shaking it away and beginning to grab the needed items for him to flee with. He grabbed the near by satchel, stuffed the books and items needed into it. he looks over to the dagger that proudly sat on a display under bright torchlight. A sheathed dagger that was created in pure black steel,and had a black fiery aura flowing from it. He takes it and looks at the blade with hatred for the people who took his family from him. He takes it and sheaths it into his belt as he runs out of the room and out the secret exit which lead to a riverside outside the village.
"Goodbye mother and father....may goddess of life take you into her loving arms..."
He said as he began to run towards the kingdom, he knew that would be the safest place for him now, even though he had no where else or no other family to run to.
(end music here)
--Nine Years Later, Castle Town Market--
There was a crowd gathered in the middle of one of the squares of the city. A young man stood in the middle of the crowd, cheers and screams were going off around the unknown hooded man. He was tall, sort of athletic build and wore a scarf that covered the lower partof his face. He wore a black frayed robe that was tight up top, but got baggy and flowed freely at the bottom. And black clothe gloves and last but not least, dark leather boots with straps. He puts his hands out to his sides and smiles to the crowd
"You all ready for the show then?! Keep your eyes open!"
The crowd cheered for him again. both children and adults alike. He knew he only had a certain amount of time before the city guards could pinpoint his location though. So he had to entertain his crowd quickly. He holds his hand one above the other, soon two copies of himself would split from him left to right in the same pose. Then the would run in different directions as well as he would, a plum of black smoke covering the area. After the smoke cleared, everyone looked around, wondering where he had gone, They then looked up as they heard a whistle. He and his copies were on each side of the square, standing on the decorative ropes that ran across the area. They all started clapping with amazed looks on their faces. Even a few fangirl screams in there as well. He and his copies would bow deeply as they balanced themselves on the rope perfectly. Suddenly they began to run across the ropes as high speed, black streaks flowing behind them as they ran in a circle around the crowd, jumping to and from different ropes. Finally they all jumped and landed in the middle on their feet. him and his copies took another bow and the crowd clapped again. Tossing small pouches of money to him at his feet.
"Thank you all for watching my shows and supporting me the way you do. Without your patronage, I would honestly be starving. I really do appreciate all the money you give me.."
Just then,he sees a few children run up to him, the copies collecting the money as he kneels down in front of them the only thing that could be seen fromunder the hood and behind the scarf was his golden eyes. Though he was smiling brightly to them. There was a sickness going around the town. And he was doing everything he can to bring a smile to the young ones who were afflicted with it. It seemed that his shows made them smile at least. And that made him happy he could ease their pain.
"We love you Living Shadow. All of us. The way you move and the way you create your illusions...its really amazing!"
"Yeah..I wanna be like you when I get older. Will you teach us how to use shadowmancy?"
Zikel smiled and rubbed his chin a bit
"Only if you kids get better soon. You need to be strong to use shadowmancy. But I have no doubt, that when you are well. You will become good at it in no time."
He said reassuringly. The children gave him a big smile and clapped. Suddenly a random woman called out to him
"Living Shadow, the guards are closing in quickly. You need to go while you can!"
"Thank you for the warning! Alright everyone, time for the encore!"
He said as he finished gathering up the coins that were so generously giving to him. As the guards came and quickly surrounded him, weapons drawn and pointed directly at him, they shouted.
"Alright Living Shadow, your stealing and performing days are over. Come with us now or we will use lethal force!"
Zikel lowered his head for a moment, he was counting down in his head as the sun lowered down,the shadows grew around the square, the crowd knew exactly what was about to happen, their eyes on the guards
"You aren't going to catch him now boys...when its night time. You are in his world now."
An elderly woman spoke to them as they kept him surrounded
"Listen to her men. Save yourself the trouble and go back home to your families and call it a night!"
Shouted another man in the crowd
"Be quiet citizen! Your 'entertainer' is nothing but a thief and a lair! he is going to pay for his crimes and rot in the jails!"
"He isn't a thief! Sure he takes food from the market stalls, but he always returns the money eventually and gives us these shows!"
Shouted one of the merchants he frequently goes to
"Take him men!"
Shouted the commanding officer. And just like that, the sun was out of sight. Zikel chuckled, and just like that, he sinks into the ground and vanishes into the black shadows of the night, the guards closing in just a little too late as he shadow crawls with great speed and out of sight. They crowd cheers loudly again after his escape. And slowly begins to disperse, talking about the event and the show as usual.
Later that night, as Zikel was in his hideout. He couldn't notice a familiar feeling of dread coming over him, sending shivers up his back. And his feeling was correct, he suddenly her loud booms,seeing smoke rise from below the city from his high perched hideout, he makes his way to the corner of the roof top and looks out over the city. Smoke, fire and screams of panic flooded the streets. His eyes widen in horror as he whispers to himself.
"No...please not again...not this again!"
He grabbed his satchel and put what little belongs he had in it, grabbing his dagger and making his way down the roofs by wrapping a piece of roped around another and began to slide down it the ground level. As he does this, he sees a guard trying to fight off two other invade soldiers. As he slids down, he kicks one of them in the head and thrusts his dagger in the other's neck. The guard looks at Zikel with a glare for a moment, then shakes his head
"Thanks Living Shadow...I owe you one for that."
"Then tell me what in the seven hells is going on here?!"
"We are being invaded by the neighboring kingdom. We weren't expecting them so early though, this threw our plans right out the window, Especially with the plague having taken its toll on most of our soldiers!"
"Get to your squad then. You need to be with at least one other guard. Stay with them at all times!"
Zikel disappeared before the guard could protest, As he used the shadows to travel around the city quickly, killing off any invaders he could.He came across those very same children he had seen earlier....dead with arrows in their backs and the adults who had tried to defend him. He stood there with wide eyes, slowly walking towards them and falling on his knees before them. People who he had grown to care for and love. Gone from him again. Why was so much tragedy being brought to this man? He didn't do anything wrong...anything he took, he eventually gave back with the money he earned.
"My friends... I am sorry I wasn't here to help you. This plague that was killing you already was enough...but now this..."
He suddenly slammed his fist into the ground and looks up into the heavens, screaming.
"Tell me gods! What have I done? What have any of these people done to deserve such pain?! Do you get sick kicks out of watching innocent people die?! Do you enjoy loved ones being taken away from others so brutally?! You aren't true gods, you are monsters!"
Just then, large black clouds form directly over him and the city, thunder and lightning strike fiercely and wnd begin to pick up
"Come on then, strike me down you sons of bitches. I am right here! You have taken everyone away from me! Why don't you take my life then you monsters! Smite me down like the almighty beings you are!"
He screamed with his arms wide open, but it wasn't lightning that struck him, A beam of light came straight for him. he figured it was one of the gods answering his taunt and gave him what he wanted. he closes his eyes and smiles lightly
"Mother...father, my friends. I will be joining you soon.."
Suddenly there was nothing left, the light swallowed him up and took him where it was going to take him.
A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 1: A New Land And A New...Form?
Zikel slowly begins to regain consciousness. opening and shutting his eyes as he stares up into the blue sky, the sound of birds chirping and the wind blowing through the trees around him, the grass he was laying on felt so soft, a smiles forming across his face as he laid there. He reached up in front of him and looked at his hand.
"This must be paradise...where my family and friends are waiting for me to join them...at last.."
He then noticed something/...off about his hand, its was a dark grey, and he had..blue claws,he instantly shoots up into a sitting position, looking at his hand then up his body, the parts of flesh that were exposed were also dark grey. he reached up and felt his face, his skin now had a thick scaley texture to it. And he even had a...muzzle?!
"What in the seven hells?! What is going on?!"
He looked around for anything to see his reflection in, as he did, he removed his hood and his scarf from his body, seeing his face in the little pond near by, he lets out a scream as he sees what he had become. he had black horns with light blue tips, same as his claws/ What disturbed him the most though, is his eyes, instead of the part that should be black, it was blue, his irises were still gold, but his sclera was the same blue of his claws and horn tips And then he noticed his wings, dark grey with the membrane that same blue And a long thick tail with a spade at the end of it. He quickly got to his feet the best he could, nearly following back when he did, his legs were different as well. More like a dragon's hind legs, digigrade legs, his feet also like a dragon's, claws and everything.
"This...this is what you have me become then?! Why didn't you kill me and be done with you bastards?!"
He noticed his voice was now deeper and more gravelly. his muscles a bit larger and his over all height raised by another foot, bringing him to a total of seven foot even. White long strands of hair rested behind him,all the way down to his lower back. His hair was this long back home, but it was black. He began to try and work his wings, not really sure how they would work at all since he has never had them.
"I have to admit...at least I get to try something I have never done before though. Always wanted to learn how to fly..."
"He begins working the muscles slowly at first, getting a feel for having 'wing muscles' for the first time in his life. He had to admit,the wings he had were very beautiful to look at, but this new body of his scared him still. he was something that was proclaimed a myth back in his realm. But he was still showing some humanoid attributes in this form.
He begins to flap his wings a bit harder and faster now, feeling his feet leave the ground, he starts to get a bit excited and a bit scared as well. he flaps harder, harder until he was over the treeline of where he was, he looks around at the view, his eyes widening at the beautiful landscape before him
"Oh wow....its so lovely here...this place looks like it hasn't seen one ounce of war in its time. Perhaps this is a form of paradise after all?"
He asked himself as he began to drift forward in flight, often losing his control and still gaining a better grip on on of his new abilities. He sees what looks to be a small town in the distance. he debates on going there to ask for help. but given his current form. Should he? He could cover his face with his scarf and hood, but he can't his his wings and his tail.
"Maybe...this is a common thing for them? I am sure they have seen many dragons before..."
He said as he drifted down into the town square, landing in front of the large fountain, although not very gracefully, but on his feet non the less. As he did, he noticed something VERY odd. The town was full of...small colorful equines. No humans in sight. At all. Zikel places a hand behind his head and scratches lightly.
"Plenty of horses...but no humans.."
He said to himself. Suddenly he felt eyes upon him, and they stared hard. He looked around the see them starring at him with eyes as big as saucers and their pupils were super tiny. He chuckled lightly and lifted a hand to wave to them
"Uum...hi..I was wondering if I could speak with someone who-"
"DRAGOOOOOON! RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!!!"
One of the ponies screamed out,which caused the others to scream and panic as well. he tried tostopthem and waved his hands frantically.
"No NO...I am not going to hurt you..I promise. I just want directions and I want to know where I am is all, please!"
They didn't seem to listen as they all ran inside their homes and locked their doors and even took in their welcome matts. Zikel looked around, spotting the large crystal castle in the middle of the town and smiled lightly
"Ah, maybe their ruler here can help me. I am sure they are surrounded by guards. So I am no threat...right?"
As Zikel walked though the town, he saw eyes peering on him from the windows of the ponies. the windows quickly shutting as he got closer. He let out a sigh of annoyance, then looks up to the large castle in front of him. He walks up the stairs and knocks on the door. Awaiting for someone to answer. he waits for a few minutes, until the door opens and reveals....no one?
"Oh wow...another dragon?! Here in Ponyville?"
Zikel looked down and noticed a little purple dragon with green spines and green eyes. He lets out a sigh of relief and crouches down in front of him.
"Finally, a dragon! You there little guy. Where in the seven hells am I? First I was in my world, now I am here with these...talking equines that ran from me before I could even ask them questions."
"Well of course they would run from you. You are a dragon."
"But...so are you?"
"Well yeah...but I am a baby dragon. I guess they don't consider me a threat..."
"What are they think Iam going to do? Eat them? No thank you. I don't like horse meat."
The little dragon laughed and nodded
"On that we can agree on, that's for sure. Come on in, I will get the princess for you. She will be excited to see you. You aren't like any other dragon we have seen before."
"Princess? You don't have a king or queen here?"
"Nope, we only have princesses...and one prince who is an arrogant stallion who thinks to highly of himself."
"Oh great...nobles are just ad bad here to huh?"
They walked through the castle, passing large room and soon coming to a larger room with a large table and chairs surrounding them, sitting in the chairs were...a group of these colored equines, they seemed to be discussing something importantly, when the little dragon called out to them.
"Hey guys, we have a guest!"
"Not now spike, we are in the middle of a friendship meeting!"
Shouted The lavender one. Zikel spoke out
"I am sorry your highness...I didn't mean to disturb your meeting...I am just lost here> I don't know this land...or this worldfor that matter."
They all turned to look at Zikel as they heard his gravelly voice. They gave the same look the others did, wide eyes and pupils super small
"Oh boy, get ready for more screams.."
He said as he would cover his ears
A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 2: What Is A...Shadowmancer?
Zikel slowly opens his eyes, not hearing the shrieks of fear and panic coming from the group. But, they still had that same expression on their faces. The first one to react was the lavender colored alicorn that came around with glare that could pierce plate armor. Zikel would arch a scaley brow and watches her walk around him, studying his form. He looks down at the other dragon.
"Hey bud...I can understand that seeing me is rather...unsettling. But I didn't do anything wrong...did I?"
"The name is Spike by the way, and the reason why they are acting the way they are is because..well we had a run in with some dragons awhile back. Turns out they were quite the jerks. That's why Twilight here is starring you down. Though from what I can already tell. You don't seem like a bad dragon...you are dressed is very intimidating clothes, but we don't judge by looks here. Right Twilight? After all, he is like no dragon I have seen before. Maybe he is different than those mean ones from the migration."
Twilight continued to circle around him, he looked at the others sitting in the other chairs, three of them wide eyed still. But two of them with the same kind of glare that Twilight had. Zikel crossed his arms and lets out a sigh "Look, if you want me to leave, just say it. I am simply a lost hu-dragon who doesn't know where the hell he is nor what kind of world this is. Everything is so brighter...and talking equines isn't really common from where I am from. Or talking dragons to..."
He turned to Spike and crouched down in front of him offering his hand out to the little dragon. They both shook hands, a smile across his face formed under his scarf.
"Thanks for trying Spike, but I don't think I am welcome here. Perhaps it was a mistake for me to think I could find help here. I saw a city on the cliff side here while I was wandering about. Perhaps I could find some help there.
As Zikel begins to walk out the way he came, he felt himself being tugged on his tail with a strange magical aura, he looked at it then seeing the same aura around the alicorn's horn and quickly pieced it together. He looked at her with a look of confusion.
"Uuuh, if you want me to leave, you gotta let go first."
"I am sorry sir, its just as Spike said, we have had some bad experiences with dragons. But I need to take into consideration that you don't look like you aren't from our world. So again, I am sorry for jumping to conclusions."
"It is fine. Honestly I have grown up being judged upon all my life ever since my parents died. Its been nine years and I have made it perfectly okay. That doesn't mean I don't miss them terribly though."
The other ponies' expression softened a bit as they heard him talk, especially about the part when he lost his family. Twilight came to him first and lightly placed a hoof on his leg.
"What happened to them? If that is okay to ask?"
"Bandits came to our village and set our homes on fire...they killed my family and friends. I was the only one that got away from it all, thanks to my father's secret room."
"I...am really sorry to hear that sir...and I am guessing you were still just a child then?"
"Indeed, no older than nine years of age. I survived on my own from stealing food from market stands and such when I was little. I didn't have any family to go to, so I had to find a way or starve."
One of the other ponies with blond hair and orange fur came up to Zikel and placed a hoof on his other leg, her emerald green eyes looking up into his eyes for a moment,she then patted him gently.
"Ah am sorry to here about that sugarcube, losin' ones family isn't easy.Ah am lucky to have my brother and sister and grabbeh. But you lost whatever family you had...you have muh sympathies. Life will only get better."
Zikel looks between Twilight and the other pony, she had a strange accent for sure, but he didn't mind it at all. He saw the other ponies coming towards him,i with one being..absent. Wasn't there one with a pink mane and pink fur with them? Ah well, maybe she had other business to take care of. The others came in closer as well, first, it was a white unicorn with a purple mane, she was a little heavy on the eye shadow, but she was a beautiful mare non-the-less. Then a yellow pegasus with a pink mane timidly hid behind the white unicorn. And lasrly, another pegasus with a rainbow mane and cyan blue fur. He shifts his eyes between the group, getting a bit nervous at how quiet the room had become. Then white unicorn finally spoke up first.
"Darling what is it that you are wearing? By the looks of it, it is some kind of robe. with pieces of armor on your vital spots. Are you a warrior from were you are from?"
"Well, I wouldn't consider myself a warrior. Just a rogue and performer mostly."
Twilight's eyes seemed to sparkle at this new information, here was a new kind of dragon she had never seen before, he stood seven feet tall, seemed fully matured, but he wasn't like any dragon she had ever seen. His body was too different, other than the scales, wings and tail. His legs and arms were more uncommon, like he was a mixture of a creature she hadn't seen before and dragon.
"And what is it exactly you perform? Do you put on some kind of act or something?"
Zikel smiles under his scarf, snapping his fingers as two shadow copies of himself drift from his body, both seemed to have taken on his new form as well. He would see the shocked expression on the ponies' faces. Zikel chuckles lightly at this.
"Do not worry, they are merely copies I created from my magic. I am a Shadowmancer."
Twilight clapped her hooves together in excitement, the others just continued to stare at him and his copies. Whcih were now walking around the room at their own free will. They began to peek around at things in curiosity, like a canine exploring a new area.
"Don't mind them. They are....kind sentient beings in their own way, even though they are part of me and my mind. They won't bring harm unless I tell them to. Though I believe I should introduce myself. I don't want to be a rude guest in your presence. My name is Zikel. A pleasure to meet you all."
He said as he placed a hand over his chest and bowed slightly
"Oooh what a gentlestallion. he has such good manners, especially for a grown dragon! I am Rarity, a pleasure to meet you as well good sir."
The cyan pegasus flew up in front of him and starred at him with a cocky grin
"And Iii am Rainbow Dash. The fastest flyer in all of Equestria, and the toughest pony around!"
Zikel crosses his arms and arches a brow, offering a playful smile under his scarf.
"The toughest around huh? I think me and my shadows will test your theory. See, I am also good at pranks as I am with my performances...shadows can hide in places you would never think to look."
She grins wider at him and glares.
"You are on dragon boy..."
The orange pony catches his attention now by grabbing his hand and shakes it firmly within ehr grip.
"And ah am Applejack. It's a pleasure to meetcha Zikel. Ya should come by muh farm sometime. I got the best darn apples ya ever tasted in your life. Ya won't be disappointed, partner."
"And I am Twilight Sparkle, princess of friendship. It is a pleasure mister Zikel. You seem like quite the honorable dragon to be around."
Zikel smiles a bit and bows his head.
"Well, I am a firm believer in the old saying, "Treat those the way you wish to be treated.". Something my mother always told me when I was younger."
All the ponies smiled when he had told them this. Zikel noticed the yellow pegasus, hiding behind Rarity, he crouched down and rests on his legs, lowering his scarf to reveal his face fully now. She looks up at him with uncertainty in her light green eyes.
"And what might your name be my adorable little pegasus?"
She blushes at being called adorable, and quietly whispers out her name.
"I-I am...fluttershy...its nice to meet you as well, Zikel."
"N'aww...and adorable name for an adorable pegasus. Nice to meet you as well Fluttershy."
He said as he reached out a hand in front of her. she seems to tense up a bit, but he offers ehr a warm smile as reassurance. She nods and lightly places a hoof in his hand, he gives it a gentle shake.
"Now then, I seem to recall there being six of you here. Did your friend have some other business to attend to?"
They all giggled lightly and looked up to him
"Oh that was Pinkie Pie. And she is probably getting your welcoming party together. She does that for everypony who comes here to Ponyville."
Zikel arches a scalely brow
"Every...pony? I guess you mean everyone. But then again, this is a different world..."
Twilight reached up and lightly pulled on one of the hems of his robe, that hunger for knowledge clearly evident in her eyes.
"So...what exactly is a shadowmancer, Zikel? You said it was a form of magic. Is it an evil kind of magic?"
Zikel chuckled lightly, then rests his arms on his thighs as he gets comfortable.
"Well, shadowmancy can be an evil magic. But it usually depends on the user's heart. As my father once said, "Its not the magic that kills people, its the people behind the magic, that kills people.". And I took that to heart as I was growing up. Though I did have to take another's life to save another. Before I was brought here, a soldier from back home was being out numbered. So I stepped in and helped him. But I do not enjoy killing, I want you to know that.. As for what shadowmancy is. It is mainly illusion magic, Like those copies wandering about. They are an illsuion, but an illusion that can interact with objects and beings.Or I can cast a black smoke spell to make my getaways if I am in trouble. I did that a lot when I was back home. They called me the 'Living Shadow'. I was hard to catch, and even harder to track down. And when night fell, it became my playground. I have an ability called shadow crawling, where I can sink into the ground and travel through whatever shadow may be near. But in total night. I can go anywhere, and be anywhere. I also have a few snare spells and things like that. But ntohing to powerful. I mainly rely on my speed and strength, but being able to squeeze through tight spaces and even keyholes has its perks, considering being a rogue requires such skills."
"And did you use these skills to survive on your own?"
"Indeed I did. I had to steal from merchants in order to eat and drink. But I did give them the money I owed them evetually. Which came from the shows I performed."
Twilight nodded repeatedly at the new information. The others seemed to be interested as well.
"You also said you weren't always a dragon? Did you used to be something else?"
"I did,I was a regular human male."
"What is a....human?"
They all asked at the same time. Zikel motioned his copies to him, they combined into one and took the form of his human self, showing them and pointing out the features, Twilight nodded as he gave her the rundown of humans, grabbing her quill and notepad and writing down everything. Rarity seemed to be lost in thought at how Zikel looked, she looked back to him and smiled gently
"And even now, you still look extremely handsome, Zikel. Be careful, you may end up with a bunch of mares here fighting for your attention!"
She teased him, this making Zikel blush. He pulls up his scarf to hide his muzzle and looks away.
"Awww look at him, such a big tough dragon and yet he is shy..."
They all laughed at him playfully, he even let out a bit of a chuckle himself.
"Come on guys...I just get like this when I am around females is all..."
Suddenly there was a knock at the door, these sound like they meant business. Flags were going up in his mind as he shifted his eyes. Something was coming...and coming for him. He throws his hood back up and quickly dives under the table, sinking into the shadow of the structure and vanishing from sight.
"Wait, Zikel its alright!"
Twilight shouted to him. Guard busted through the door after they heard the commotion
"Where is the dragon princess?! Are any of you hurt?!"
Shouted a deep male voice
A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 3: You Cannot Catch A Shadow
Zikel watches from where he was hiding, lifting his head from the shadow he was in to see many gold platted hooves wandering around the main hall looking for him. As he saw them stop in front of the table, his sinks back in the shadow just in time as one of the guards lowers down to look. He shrugs and look back to Twilight.
"The princess received your letter Princess Twilight. But where is he? We need to take him to Canterlot for questioning and to see what his intent is. This is what she and princess Luna wanted."
Zikel noticed that they were looking away from an open window, he slowly climbed from the shadow and crept his way over to it. The girls just watched him in excitement, wondering if he will manage to escape. As he neared the window, he trips over a random floor pillow, causing the guards to look over in his direction. They then pointed to him.
"By order of the princesses, you are to come with us to Canterlot for questioning, dragon!"
"Twilight tried to protest, but the guards instantly rushed him. Zikel scrambled to his feet and took a leap of faith outside the window, but remembering he had wings, he spreads them out full span and glides away from his captives. Landing a good thirty feet away, he took to the ground and began running into the town, running through allies and climbing up building, anything to lost them. Ponies starred on in both shock and curiosity as they saw a dragon being chased by royal guards, some pegasi were flying overhead to get a good view of the show. He would now see he had to outsmart them even more now. Luckily there was a cross section up ahead.
"Alright boys, you know the drill..."
He said as the two copies split off from him and took the left and right path while he went straight. The guards stopping for a moment to decide on which one to chase. Since there was three they all split off after him and his copies. All he had to deal with was one if he ever got close now. Zikel wanted to use his wings and fly. But he was going to save that as a last resort, he was doing fine jumping over obstacles that got in his way. The guard wasn't doing so well though. All that clunky armor can weigh you down, bud. Zikel comes across an apple stand who had a large red stallion with a blonde mane, he leaps over it all the while grabbing an apple, tossing a coin behind him for the stallion to catch.
"Thanks!"
Zikel shouted as he put the apple in his mouth and continued to run off. The other guard have already made contact with his copies, but as they tackled them to the ground, they just grin and vanish into the ground, returning to Zikel. He finally comes across a nice shadowy alley, sliding into it and melting into the shadow. He watches as the guard is completely dumbfounded at how easily he had lost the target. He scratches his head and runs off to see if he could try somewhere else. Zikel just chuckles to himself.
"As long as there is even a sliver of shadow in the light...you won't catch me."
"Is that so?"
A female voice seemed to echo around him, a light brighter than the sun appeared in the alley he was in, forcing himout of the shadows and exposing him fully. He covers his eyes at the bright yellow light and backs away from it. Out of the light appears a tall pony, she had a white coat and her mane flowed with a spectrum of pastel colors. While she was tall, she was also quite curvy in all the right places. Too many sweets perhaps? She wore golden regalia with the sun on the plate she wore on her chest along with it on her flank. She had a horn and wings like Twilight did. Could she be one of the rulers that he was told about? She took a few steps towards him, this made him back away. He was getting backed into a corner. And he didn't like that at all.
"Stay away from me...I didn't do anything wrong...please."
He said as he drew his dagger and went into a defensive stance. The alicorn stopped for a moment as he drew his weapon, but she smiled to him warmly and continued to approach him.
"You won't hurt me or anyone else here, sir. I can see behind those fierce eyes of yours that you are a warm and gentle soul who is just afraid of a new land. I understand that. But you need to come with me now. Please, lower your weapon."
Zikel knew she had him pegged, he wouldn't try to hurt her, he was hopping his bluff would have worked. But it seemed it had very much failed. He would have to resort to his final escape tactic. He sheaths his weapon and lifts his hands up in the air as if surrendering. The alicorn smiled again and nodded
"Thank you for cooperating-"
She was cut off by his wicked grin as the runes on his body began to glow their bright blue, he suddenly slams a hand into the ground and forces a large black dome over the town, creating a illusion of the night sky and moon that blotted out the sun, this shocked the princess for a few moments, Zikel runs by her with a chuckle, like a shadowy blur with glowing eyes, time slowed down fora moment as he spoke.
"I have more than a few tricks up my sleeve my dear princess. I may not harm the innocent. But I will find a way to escape. You cannot catch a shadow."
Time sped back up as he ran passed her, his sunk into the ground of the fake night he had created and shadow crawled away and out of sight. The ponies in the town where wondering why the sun had set so early in the day. Zikel made it outside of the dome and chuckled lightly, dispelling the dome and making a break for it, as he turned to do so, there she was again, a triumphant smirk on her face and a playful glare. As he was about to dash off again, she leaps onto him, her horn glowed brightly as they were teleported away.
They appeared in a white marble room, it had bookshelves and floor pillows all about the floor, a fireplace to one side of the room, but no windows. She knew exactly what she was doing when she brought him here. She stood over him as he laid there in a daze from the teleportation.
"Well look at that, it turns out you can catch a shadow if you don't give him a place to go hmm?"
Zikel slowly sat up and shook his head a bit,coming out of his daze and narrowed his eyes at her, arching a brow with a wise ass smirk. dusting himself off.
"Can you be sure you really caught me though, princess? Well anyways, you have me here now. And this is better than being put in a cell. So you want to ask questions, I may or may not answer depending upon them."
Celestia blinked a few times at his cryptic way of speaking. But then plops her rear on one of the floor pillows and nods.
"First off. How exactly did you get here? There was a massive magic spike near the Everfree Forest around the time you came here."
Zikel walked around the room, examining the books on the shelves and anything he could find, his eyes flashing a bit from time to time, he turns to her and shrugs.
"You got me, I was swallowed up by a beam of light that came down from the heavens. And here I am. I was in this form when I came here as well. I am not originally a dragon, I was a human."
"And...what precisely is a human?"
"That is a story for another time I am afraid."
"So you are from another world. That explains it then. Also, why are you dressed in such a manner? Are you a magical warrior of sorts?"
"No, I am just a simple shadowmancer and rogue. I steal to survive, but pay back eventually when I have the amount of currency. I am also an illusionist as well. makes for good performances for the little ones."
Celestia arched a brow, then smiled as she heard him say he returns payment, and even uses his magic to entertain children. She stands up and walks over to him, poking his chest a bit.
"You look scary to be sure, but under all that black clothe and scales, lies a heart of warmth. I do believe I trust my former student with you, and her friends as well. I would ask you more personal questions. But I do believe I must wait to get to know you first, sir."
"Well,I can at least give you my name. I am Zikel, A pleasure to meet you princess..."
"Celestia, one of the two rulers of Equestria. A pleasure to meet you as well Zikel."
"One of two you say?"
A dark blue light appears as another alicorn came out of it, she was shorter than Celestia, but she was rather adorable as well, a dark blue coat with light blue regalia on her body, the mark on the chest plate and her flank being that of the night sky and moon. She walked up beside her sister and looked up to her
"So this is the dragon we have heard about Tia?"
"Indeed he is Lulu, I was just questioning him on a few things. He seems like a good pony, despite his rather unsettling appearance."
Luna walks up to him and circles around his form, she then leans up and places her hooves on his chest and stares into his eyes for a moment, then laughs lightly as she looks over to her sister.
"I am afraid my dear sister, that you have been fooled into thinking this is the real one. This one is nothing more than an illusion created from shadow."
Zikel's mouth curls up into a wide wicked grin, crossing his arms as he looks over at the dumbfounded Celestia, her jaw nearly hitting the floor.
"This must be your little sister I take it princess Celestia? She is quite perceptive. Strange how the younger one saw right through me and you couldn't?"
Luna giggled under her hoof and puffed out her chest a bit in pride. Celestia narrowed her eyes at the grinning copy. He walked passed her and slowly began to vanish before leaving her with a few words.
"As I said before Princess...you cannot catch a shadow."
--Ponyville, In A Random Tree--
Zikel laid lazily in one of the large branches with his back against the tree itself, eating his apple as he controlled his shadow puppet. He laughs as he was found out and opens his eyes, finishing off his apple and tosses the core in a trash bin that was below.
"I switched when I was heading to the outside of the dome, I knew you would be there waiting princess. And now the trail has gone cold. Good luck finding me."
A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 4: The Reoccuring Nightmare
Zikel wanders the streets of Ponyville, the sun begins to set making this a good time for him to find somewhere to slumber for the night. He keeps clear of other ponies, staying out of sight until the streets are all clear. He finds a nice little alley and looks around. Plenty of shadow to rest in. he wanders in deeper into the alley, sinking into the shadows, when he did this, it was sort of like a little dimension pocket, he would just float there and drift, this made his sleeping arrangements quite easy when not sleeping in a bed. As he got comfortable, he began to slowly drift off into sleep, clutching his fists as he dreaded what was to come in his slumber.
Zikel's eyes open as he is surrounded by fire, burning building and the sound of screams and panic. He looks down at his hands and in a reflection. He was his child self again, he heard a sickening moan. He turned around to see all of his family and friends limping towards him with burn corpses. He backs away in fear.
"Ziiikeeeelll...you abandoned us....only to save your own skin...your own mother and father...and your friends...you are nothing but a coward..."
"N-no...I didn't abandon you! I didn't know what to do! Please stop! Why must you torment me like this every night?! I wanted to save you all I really did!"
The dream is suddenly consumed by fire, and flashes to the night he disappeared, he stood there surrounded by the adults and children who he performed for, the bodies sickly and full of stab wounds, invading soldiers with glowing red eyes cutting them down one by one, blood splattering the ground and walls around them. One of the children look up at him with a blank stare and a crocked smile.
"You promised you would teach us shadowmancy when we would get better. But now it seems we won't even get to live anymore..you abandoned us also...you are nothing but a monster, a liar, a thief.."
"Stop please! I didn't want this! I was taken from you all that night! It's not my fault!!"
Zikel fell to his knees and grabbed his head, his eyes widening, tears slowly starting to pour from them as the mobs of undead looking corpses started to close in around him.
"You killed us...you killed us...you killed us..."
"No I didn't!"
"ENOUGH!!!"
Shouted a loud bellowing female voice that seemed to make everything vanish around him, what replaced the surrounds was a large lage surrounded by a grassy meadows, and the large moon lighting the who area up with the beautiful night sky filled with stars, the only sound that was heard was the wind running through the grass. Zikel wrapped his arms around himself and continued shaking, nearly falling on his side.
"That is quite the nightmare you have to endure Zikel. I figured you would appreciate a bit of assistance of being rid of it."
Zikel looked up to see where the voice was coming from, it was the blue alicorn he had met yesterday, he quickly regained his composure and turned away, wiping his tears away.
"Thank you...Princess Luna...you are most kind to do that for me. But I didn't ask for your help. Nor should you have done so. I am not deserving of any help from anyone."
LUna arched a brow at him, she walked up and around him so she could look up into his eyes, he pulls his head over his head more to block her view. She narrows her eyes at him when he does.
Zikel...something tells me you have been having this nightmare for a long time now. And the final part of it is a fresh add on. Did this happen before you were brought here?"
Zikel went silent for a moment, trying his best to not break down again, he began to speak, his voice was very shaky.
"Y-yes...the first part of my dream has haunted me since childhood, and now this. I..I didn't abandon anyone! There was nothing I could do!. So why do I feel so guilty about it?! I wanted to help them, I really did, but it was too late!"
Zikel was about to go into another fit of sadness when he suddenly felt a pair of arms wrap around him, then another...and another. He opened his eyes to see his mother and father at first, both looking like they were just fine and smiling up to him lovingly. His body still shaking hard
"It is alight Zikel....you need to let this go my sweet boy. We know you didn't abandon us. We told you to leave us behind...you need to stop this self torment...and let it go my dear."
"Your mother is right my boy. It is time you moved on from this. And I am proud of what a fine man you have grown up to be. And I am even prouder that you have mastered our legacy..."
"Mother...father...I miss you so so much...A day hasn't gone by when I wish we could be a family again. How are you even here though..?"
"We...don't know Zikel, but its only temporary, but we are so happy...to see you have matured and doing well for yourself. We love you so much Zikel. And we hope you find happiness in the new world you have been brought to. Try not to cause them too much trouble."
"Zikel, be safe my son, make your old man even more proud. We will be watching over you."
They hugged once more, Zikel holding on for dear life before than vanished, next was the children and the adults who all appeared to him, they weren't sickly at all from the plague, in fact they were fine. The children smiled and ran up to him
"Its the Living Shadow!"
They all exclaimed as they ran up to him. Zikel's eyes began to water up again as he saw the very faces he couldn't save.
"I...I am sorry...I couldn't...I didn't.."
Two of them grabbed his hands and continued to smile up at him, then others wrapped him in a hug.
No more being sad mister! We aren't mad at you at all!"
"That's right! We know you would have fought to save us if you had known!"
"We want you to know, we don't hurt anymore! We are all in a nice place now were pain no longer exists!"
"Yeah, so no more tears, Living Shadow!"
"Well, we gotta get back now. Our mothers are calling for us! Bye bye Living Shadow!"
He watched as they ran off and disappeared, he then looks to the group of adults, who did nothing but smile kindly to him. He walked up to them and looked between them, the elderly woman that spoke up for him approached.
"We miss your performances dear. You were the best entertainment we have had ever since you first appeared in the city. You be good now. Never let the kindness you have in your heart stray away."
The two merchants he often 'shopped' from came forth as well, patting him on the shoulder.
"You know bud...if we would have known that you went through all that when you were younger, we would have just given you what we could. But, you still paid us back for what you took. You may be a thief, but at least you give back what was owed. And we say, good on ya bud!"
"You...really all don't hold me at fault for any of your deaths? Even thought I said I would do anything for my fans?"
"Of course not, lad. The city was being over run and you couldn't get to all of us at once. Besides, we are in a better place now. So no need to worry about us! We will be seeing you now!"
They all waved to him as they turned away and walked,, vanishing like all the others. Zikel just stood there, his hands forming into fists, then releasing, two words escaping his mouth.
"Thank you...."
Luna walks up beside him after everything and smiles up to him
"You had a lot of people who loved you and still do where you are from. I allowed them temporary gateways to your dream realm. And it seems I made the right call."
"Thank you for doing so princess Luna...I can finally escape this nightmare and be done with it. Knowing all my friends and family don't blame me and are safe in a better place...I owe you big time."
"Well, since you say you owe me. I have a favor to ask. Would you willingly come back to the castle and speak with me and my sister? She realized she was a bit too forceful on trying to uncover who you are. And wishes to apologize and try again. And feel free to callme Luna, thats what my friends call me"
"After what you have just given me...I will comply. It seems the least I could do. And...your friend? I don't think I am deserving to have a friend that is royalty, especially since you are one of the rulers."
"But you don't see me as just a ruler do you? You see me as just another pony who wants to be your friend, right?"
"Well...yes, I didn't want to say that on account of offending you...but you are more down to earth than I thought."
Luna giggled and winked at him
"Wait till you get to know my sister. She is even more down to earth than me. Anyways, we will be awaiting your arrival in the afternoon. We will be sending a couple of guards to escort you by chariot. Which will be in about.....thirty minutes. So you need to wake up now. We look forward to your visit."
The dream faded to white and vanished, Zikel snaps his eyes open to the pitch darkness that was the shadow he rested in, he no longer had to face that nightmare any longer.
A Shadow Caught In The Sun
After Zikel said his goodbyes to the royal sister, he made his way back to Ponyville. It was getting rather late by the time he returned there. He wasn't sure where he should go. back to the same alley and into the shadows once more. He walked through the square of the city, his scarf and hood completely covering his face. Getting mixes of ponies who were either frightened or curious. he takes a seat at the fountain and goes into deep thinking mode, his claws lightly rubbing against his chin. they began to whisper about him
"What do you think he wants? He has been here for at least two days now."
"I don't know. But I hope he isn't here to eat ponies... or destroy our town!"
Zikel was too deep in thought to pay attention to the gossiping ponies. He then noticed three small shadows approaching him, his gaze lifts up to three little fillies gazing at him with big adorable eyes. He tilts his head at them.
"Something I can help you little ones with?"
"Well sir, we heard there was a big scary dragon roaming around town. But you...aren't exactly what we thought you were."
Said the orange and purple maned filly.
"Yeah, we thought you were much bigger and scarier lookin'. You are big yes, but not like actual dragons."
Said the one of the others said. Zikel noticed she had the same accent as Applejack. Maybe they were related?
"You actually...seem pretty nice sir. My sister told me that you were quite a gentlecolt. She wasn't lying."
Said the white unicorn with multi-colored hair.
"Well,thank you girls. Its funny, three little girls aren't afraid to come up to me, but all these older ponies take one look at me like I am some kind of demon."
They all four laughed at that, they moved closer to him, he reached into his inner robe pocket and pulled out a bit. The princesses were kind enough to give him some currency before he departed. He holds it in front of them.
"You girls wanna see a neat little trick? It's actually fairly easy."
They nodded their heads excitedly, there eyes on the coin.
""Alright, pay attention now!'
He said as he rolled the coin from one finger to the next. They watched with awe and then flinched back as he clapped his hands together, he then pulled his hands apart and revealed that the coin was...gone!
"Wh-where did it go?!"
They all asked in unison. They looked up at him with eyes the size of small plates. He grinned lightly and reached over to the yellow filly in the middle of the group, she closed her eyes, expecting something back, but it never came. he grabbed her ear gently and rubbed it, then removed the coin from it. He then chuckles and holds it out in front of them.
"Tadaaaaa."
The three fillies smiled brightly and clapped their hooves together. Zikel smiled again and stood up, taking a deep bow.
"That was pretty neat mister. Got anymore cool tricks to show us?"
She reminded him of somepony...like a smaller version of-
"Applenloom!"
"Sweetie Belle!"
"Scootaloo!"
Shouted three different voices, he saw two of the three pony he met earlier running towards them with worried faces. The other flying at him with a glare that was threatening to stab through him. As soon as they got to the group, they pulled the three fillies away from him. Zikel frowned a bit at this. If its one thing he hated. Its when kids are enjoying his show, and the parents or elder siblings pulls them away simply because of how he looks.
"Please forgive Sweetie Belle darling...she is only curious is all..."
"Please ladies I-"
"You better not have been trying to hurt Scootaloo bub!"
"If you would let me explain-"
"Ah told you not to go near him Applebloom, and yet you went and did it anyways!"
"LADIES!!"
They all froze as he shouted at them, he did so to stop them from scolding the fillies.
"Its alright, I don't mind their company honestly. I was giving them a little magic show was all.. Like the ones I told you about back home. Please don't be upset with them. At least they have more guts to approach me, more than I can say for all the adults around here."
The girls looked up at him with big smiles and puffed out their chests a bit. It seems that Rainbow Dash wasn'ttoo happy with that comment,she gets in his face, nearly touching nose to nose.
"I ain't afraid of you dragon boy. You are no scarier than Spike!"
Zikel grins darkly and takes a hold of her head with his claws, a fierce look in his eyes now appear and he draws out his dagger and places it against her neck. Her body goes stiff and her eyes widen with fear, the others gasp at him and watch in horror. After a moment. he sheaths his dagger and releases her. Laughing a bit.
"You sure about that? I believe I just saw fear in your eyes, I can see you still shaking."
"N-no I am not! I was just...surprised is all!"
He looked to the fillies, who looked at him disapprovingly at first, but they couldn't help but giggle a little.
"See? Even they know I would never really hurt anypony here...shake them up a little sure. But I will never bring harm to anypony here unless they are bringing harm to others."
The three fillies escaped their siblings and ran right back up to him, wrapping their forelegs around his legs.
"You know what mister? You are pretty cool yourself. You should come by and visit our club house some time!"
"Yeah, he could go on adventuress with us!"
"Ah second the motion!"
Rarity begins to protest.
"Now girls, I don't think Zikel here would care much for-"
"Sure thing, I would be happy to accept your invitation."
The three old ponies dropped their jaws a bit as he said yes. They jumped around him cheering. His gaze turns to them.
"Don't you ladies worry now, I will make sure these three stay out of trouble. And should they get into it. I will bail them out of it."
Sweetie Belle seemed especially attached to him, she looked up into his eyes and blushed a bit. A thought running through her head
"He is actually...kind of handsome when you look at him.."
Rarity saw the look on her little sister's face and couldn't help but giggle, pointing out what was going on.
"Careful mister tall dark and handsome. My sister looks like she is getting a crush on you."
"A-am not!"
Zikel chuckles softly and kneels down in front of the little unicorn. Lightly patting her on the head.
"Now now Sweetie Belle, its rather adorable you feel that way about me...but consider I am much older than you. Come back to me when you are a grown mare...then we will talk. until then, all I can be is your friend."
She seemed to lower her head in disappointment, but understood and smiled. Applejack came up to him now.
"So Zikel, where ya plannin' to live now that you're here?"
"Honestly Applejack...I haven't a clue. I was thinking I would build my home from the ground up somewhere. Or turn the interior of a cave to something more livable. I think it should be outside of town though. Don't want to cause trouble for anypony else because of a dragon living there."
"Oh sweetie you will be fine. After all, Spike lives with Twilight! I am sure we could help you find a nice place within the town!"
"Uum...Rarity...I have seen the doors on the building...I would have to nearly crouch to get into them."
"Well we can't just have ya sleepin' out in the streets!"
"Well,honestly that's how I grew up. Would be nothing new for me."
"Honestly guys, I could care less where he stays. As long as he doesn't try anything bad. Who cares?"
Zikel noticed, even before the stunt he pulled earlier on her, Rainbow Dash hasn't been too fond of him.
"Rainbow! Don't be so rude to him! He is somepony without a home!"
"Indeed, He is new to this world any you are insulting him like he has done something wrong! Shame on you!"
Zikel puts a hand out in front of Rarity and Applejack, he then approaches Rainbow Dash and locks eyes with her.
"Now you listen here. I could care less what you think about me. Or that you don't like me. But you need to straighten up your attitude. I am trying to make peace around here and make a few friends. But if you don't want to be my friend, then don't. But that doesn't mean that your friends can't be mine either. You don't control their lives. Got it?"
She was about to protest against him, but he was right. She growled at him and flew off, knowing that she was beaten. And she really hated to lose. Zikel turned to look at the others and rubbed the back of his head.
"Sorry...did I go too far?"
"Not at all darling. You were well within your right."
"Yeah, she was goin' way outta line there. We aren't gonna hold it against ya sugarcube."
"Thanks ladies. You are both very kind to me."
Rarity ran up to his side and wrapped her forearms around his arm
"First things first, we need to get you a place to live! There is an open plot in the city here that hasn't been built upon yet. And the land is up for sell. We will go see the Mayor, and then we will get you started! But until your house is complete, I insist you come and live with me and Sweetie Belle!"
Zikel's eyes widen a bit and kept his feet firm on the ground.
"N-now hold on a minute Rarity...that is sweet of you to offer really it is! But uh...I am sure you don't have enough room for someone my size! Yeah, that's it!"
"Besides Rarity, it wouldn't be good for you're customer flow, to have aa dragon livin' with ya and all."
Rarity knew what Applejack said was true, she whined and released his arm reluctantly.
"I have plenty of room over at muh place at the farm. He can stay in the loft of the barn.t Its nice and cozy up there with all the hay."
"I...don't think that will be wise Applejack. If you have other family members other than little Applebloom here. I don't think they would welcome me. But if it makes you feel any better. I will find someplace other than a dark alley. I just don't want to impose on any of you."
"You really are a sweetheart...putting others first before yourself. I could really fall for a pony like you Zikel."
Rarity said to him teasingly. Zikel was glad he had his scarf over his muzzle, so she couldn't see the blush forming over his scales.
"That...is very nice of you to say Rarity...um how about we go and find that land huh?!"
He said quickly changing the subject. They agreed and took him to the the Mayor, she agreed to allow him to pay the land off in installments, and that the first pay-off was free. She understood that he was new to this world as well. And took it easy on him. As they reached to plot of land, Zikel noticed...it was actually a pretty open spot, no surrounding neighbors at all! This was good. Zikel picked up the sign and tossed it aside, wiping his hands together and placed them on his hips. It was going to be a long month for him. But at least he would have his own home once more.
As he saw his new friends off to go do their own business, Zikel saw the sun was now fully gone, and the moon had risen. he decided he would return to the tree that he had made into his favorite nap spot. Not many go by there anyways so he won't be bothered, nor will he bother anyone else. When he gets to the branch that he is comfortable with. He sighs and looks up at the moon. It was so beautiful. The stars shown brightly and the wind was all he could hear going through the tree's leaves. He felt this would be a good night, and he didn't waste anytime.
He reaches into his void satchel, a bag of his own making and pulls out a full sized lute. That's right, he enjoyed music just as much as his performances. But he kept his music to himself. he strummed it a few times, making sure it was in tune. He began slowly, closing his eyes and listening to the notes echo in the area, his fingers working expertly as he played the song that was taught to him by his mother. He gently rocked back and forth, remembering all the good times he had back in his home world. before this all happened.
As he was playing, somepony was approaching, but then they stopped as they saw and heard his music. It was Twilight Sparkle. She had been coming back from an errand and came across him now. Her eyes widened in awe and her jaw dropped. She stood there for a long time, watching and listening to him intently. She couldn't explain it, but the song made her feel so...warm and safe. And to see such an intimidating creature play such lovely sounds from a lute. It made her remember back to one of her reports on friendship
"Never ever judge a book by it's cover. They may look fierce and unfriendly, but you get to know them and then they become your greatest ally...."
The song went on for a bit longer, after he strums the final note, all went quiet. He then heard to sound of hooves clapping together, his eyes snapping open to see Twilight was there, starring up at him with the biggest smile ever. Zikel rubbed the back of his head nervously.
"I...didn't know I had an audience.."
She trotted closer to the tree and nodded.
"You sure did. And I thought it was absolutely beautiful. You are quite gifted Zikel."
"Oh..it was just a song my mother taught me before she died. She used to play it for me every night before I went to bed when I was a baby. I miss her and my father very much. But I know they are in a better place."
Twilight nodded and thought about something for a moment. Then nodded firmly again then looked up at him.
"Rarity and Applejack told me that you purchased a plot of land for a home. But you have no place to go. I insist that you come and stay at the castle with me. You won't be imposing, and I have plenty of space."
"You are very kind to offer Twilight. But as I said to them. I cannot accept such a nice offer. Especially since you barely even know me."
"But I want to get to know you Zikel. The princesses told me of your visit. I want to be your friend to..."
Zikel looked down at the pony. Her purple eyes filled with a hopeful stare. He sighed and slid off the branch and on his feet, walking to her.
"If I come and stay with you and Spike. I am going to look for a job I need to save up as I am getting my home ready. And I will not freeload off of you. Those are my terms."
Twilight jumped for joy as he said that.
"YES! I accept them!"
She wasted no time in dragging him along with her magic. Zikel's mind was racing. This could be a good thing....right?
A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 7: First Day On The Job
It had been two days since Zikel started staying with Twilight and Spike. Already the three friends were growing closer. While he stayed there. He helped out Twilight with anything she needed. That included magic experiments, resorting books, just anything He could do for her. He then slid on his robe and buckled it down. When he wasn't out doing anything, he mainly just wore pants and his sleevless shirt that was tied together in the middle. He didn't wear his boots anymore, as his dragon feet and claws didn't fit them, so all he wore was his leather legs guards. After he got ready, he walks to the door to leave, grabbing the handle after calling out to Twilight.
"Hey Twi, gonna go look for a job again today. Hopefully I can land something. Wanna get started on my home as soon as possible after all."
"Alright Zikel, be safe. And happy hunting!"
She said as she waved to him while passing by. He returned the wave and opens up the door,closing it on his way out and began his search for a way to make money...well the honest way anyways. He went from place to place. Ponies either saying no or istantly shutting the door as they saw him approach. Zikel let out a frustrated grunt and throws his hands up in the air
"Oh come ooooon!"
Zikel walked on for a little more. Coming across a large building that had what looked to be steam coming from the top of the building from a pipe. He rubs his chin in thought, making his way to the building and opening the door, crouching a bit to get in and closes the door behind him. He looks around as he sees ponies getting...massages and taking baths in rather large wooden tubs. He blinks a bit as he continues to look around. This was all so new to him. He thinks back to his time and the primitive technologies and how...advanced this places was. It was like a mixture of future and past all in one. Come to think of it, this whole realm was! He was suddenly greeting by tewo mare. They both looked quite similar. the only difference was the color of their coat.
"Greetings sir! What can we help you with? Are you looking for a massage?"
The blue one asked.
"Or are you looking to soak for awhile in one of our herbal baths?"
Chimed in the pink one.
"Actually ladies...I am looking for a job. But...something tells me this place maaaay not be for meeee..."
Zikel then noticed the light in their eyes as they heard him say 'job'. They wasted no time in pushing him into the back and slamming the door. He nearly trips over himself entering the room, he turns to the two ponies, seeing them run up to him and smiling.
"So you are looking for a job are you sweetie? Well, you seem like a big and strong stallion. Could you please remove your robe so that we may get a good look at you?"
"Yes, we need to see your physique before we can offer you a position."
Zikel blinked a bit before the slowly began to remove his robe from his body, setting it on a nearby chair. The moment they laid eyes on him they noticed his arms and hands. Their mouths hanging open and their eyes shinning.
"Oooh Lotus....look at him. I think the number of mare customers will sky rocket if we give him a masseur position...he has such fine arms, and those hands look so strong.."
"Indeed Aloe...but we should have him test them out to see if he would qualify for the job."
Zikel blinked a bit. He was getting rather nervous at this point. The mares looked up at him, they giggled lightly and pulled a certain to the side to reveal a massage table.
"Just to let you ladies know...I have never given a massage before. While I know the human body...I don't know the pony body very well."
"Not to worry dear. I helped out the last employ who signed up with us. My sister Lotus Blossom will be the one helping you...should you need it anyways. I leave him to you dear sister."
"Don't you worry Aloe. He looks big and scary, but also quite handsome as well. And if he is as good as he looks, we will be piling high in bits in not time..."
With that, Aloe smiled and winked to the both of them before she walked out.
"Be gentle with my sister now..."
"Wait what-"
The door closes before he could finish his sentence. He slowly turns around as he heard a gentle patting sound, seeing Lotus laying on her stomache with her head on her front arms looking over at him with a teasing gaze. Zikel could feel his heart beating hard in his chest. He was nervous as all hell. Lotus could see this through his eyes and couldn't help but giggle.
"Oh my, for a big guy like yourself, you seem very very nervous. Do not worry sweetie, just follow my instructions and the rest will fall into place in your mind naturally. Now then,come here."
Zikel gulped a bit, but complied, As he walked over to her, time seems to nearly slow for him, thoughts where racing in his mind normal...then lewd, doing his most best to shove out the lewd. He finally makes it over to the mare and looks down at her.
"Please don't take this the wrong way Lotus, but would you mind if I studied your body so I know the general anatomy. I can find pressure points and points of stress through one of my spells. That way, I can get a little ahead and I won't trouble you with so many mistakes."
Lotus blinked a bit and blushed slightly, but she nodded lightly swaying swaying tail.
"Alright, this will require me going inside of you, so don't freak out when you feel my presence."
She blushed even heavier and before she could say anything, and vanished and turned into a black mist, darting towards her shadow and sinking in it. Lotus went stiff, she no longer had any control over her form, she just laid there. Now at his mercy. he was speaking within her mind.
"Ahaaa....very interesting anatomy. And for someone who works at a spa...you certain have a lot of stress knots all along your back and shoulders Lotus. I am pretty much feeling what you are."
"Forgive me, Zikel...I thought you meant inside me in the...other way.."
Things went quiet for a moment..
"Ooooh nonono Lotus! I would never..i mean..you are beautiful but i....I'll be quiet and get out now..."
Zikel quickly left her body and materialized outside in front of her, looking away with a large blush on his face.
"Maybe...maybe I should go now. I think I may have overstepped my boundaries. I am sorry."
As he was about to leave, he felt her wrap her forearms around his arm. She shook her head at him.
"Its alright hun. I was just...taken off guard was all. Please let us continue. I know you will be an asset to this business."
She said as she looked up to him with a warm smile on her face, that blush from earlier still on her face a little. Zikel nods to her after a moment. Lotus gets back onto her stomach and rests her head on her forearms. Zikel cracks his knuckles and stretches out his fingers he then straddles over her body on the table and begins to place his hands on her back, remembering back to how he saw how his mother and father did this. He began to rub up and down her back, gently applying pressure to the most tense areas, circling and rubbing out the knots. He was careful to avoid using his claws. Meanwhile, Lotus was letting out moan and soft whines with a massive blush across her muzzle. The way he was straddling over her made her think lewd thoughts herself, but also the blush came from how good he was doing this for his first time.
"Oh my...oh my Celestia. You have such wonderful hands sweetie. And you have never ever given massages before?"
Zikel didn't say anything at first, he was now solely focused on the task at hand, continuing to rub up and down her form, making sure to get every tense spot and knot loose from her body, she turned her head to look at his eyes. They were so fierce and serious, but his touch was firm, yet gentle. She wondered what was going through his mind as he fell silent. Though after a few minutes, he finally spoke.
"I am a visual learner of sorts, my mother and father used to do this all the time for each other when they have had stressful days. I am only applying what I have studied. Though from the sounds you are making. I only assume that you are enjoying it. Or am I being too rough?"
"Oh no...you are doing absolutely perfect...I think you will be our most requested masseur we have...um...What is your name my dear?"
"I am Zikel. I probably should haven't given you my name earlier. I am sorry for that Lotus."
Suddenly the was a loud crack as Zikel popped Lotus' back in all three areas at once with both hands, Lotus let out a sharp gasp, her eyes widening quickly, but then slowly drooping back down and a goofy grin spreads across her face. Her tail was swaying faster under him, lightly thumping against his legs. Zikel could tell she was enjoying herself. Now that he had finished her back, it was time for her hind legs, he carefully switches directions and begins to trail his hands from her lower back, down her flank and to her upper legs muscles, kneading and squeezing them while working his wrists in circular motions working that tension from her legs. Wanting to make sure that he got the job. He could have sworn he heard a sensual moan coming from her as he ran his hands over her flank, but that didn't matter to him now.
"You know Lotus, before I came here...no one else was even letting me come in to their establishment to get a job or even ask if I could have one. But you and your sister took a chance with me. I want to thank you for that. I am saving up money so i can build my home just across town. And this opportunity you have given me is greatly appreciated. I will not fail you and her."
"Oh trust me Zikel. You do what you are doing now, and you will not have to worry about making bits. If its one thing I admire about non-ponies...its those hands...they are more effective than hooves. Trust me when I say...mmmnh~...that you will be busy."
Zikel smiled and moved down to her lower legs now, repeating the same process until he felt that it was enough. When he finished, he carefully got off the table and turned to look at her. Zikel blinked a few times as he saw that grin on her face and those sultry eyes...or was she just sleepy?
"Oh Zikel....Aloe is going to be sooo jealous when I tell her what just happened. but she will be excited non the less. Welcome to the team. Now then..could you help me and carry me over to the sofa over there? You have turned me into quite the jello pony..."
Zikel blinks and rubs the back of his head.
"Oh...sorry about that. I just really needed this job was all."
"Oh sweetie, the job is yours, no doubt."
He chuckled as he went over to her and rolled her on her back, lifting her up in his arms gently and carrying her to the sofa, laying her down gently. The door suddenly opens, Aloe makes her way into the room after closing it behind her. She sees Zikel Laying her down on the couch and gallops over with a worried look on her face, but the is relieved to see her sister grinning like a goof.
"Aloe....this dragon...he is without a doubt a master of the body. His hands are so very divine. He has the job alright..."
Aloe looked up to Zikel with big puppy eyes and lowered ears as if saying 'Me next?'. Zikel chuckled lightly and complied. he did the samefor her as he did for Lotus, and now he had two dazed out ponies lying on the couch before him. He was a rogue...rogues had to be good with their hands!
"Well then Zikel...since you have proven yourself to both of us, here is a bit of an advanced payment. Consider it a...investment"
She reached over to a drawer and pulled out a hefty bag of coins, she tossed it to him with her teeth. He caught it and opened it, his eyes widening at how much was in the bag.
"You...are really giving me this much?! Ladies...you don't understand how much this means to me...just a little more and I can get the materials I need to begin building my home! Thank you so so very much!"
He ran up to them both and hugged them in his arms, they each wrapped a forearm around him and nuzzled his face gently.
"And thank YOU Zikel. With you here. Our business will sure thrive even greater than before. And I am sure that your future marefriend will be lucky to have somepony like you. Alright stud, we will see you back here tomorrow nine in the morning. Be ready to impress."
"You better believe I will. Thank you both again. You won't regret this."
He said as he left the two ponies lounging on the sofa. he hoped they would be able to move soon. It finally hit Zikel when he noticed something after he removed the two sister from the massage table. It was a little damp where their legs had been. And the smell of...wait. He looks down at his hands and then back to the door, then his hands again.
"Naaah, couldn't be!"
He said as he walked out the establishment, he had the biggest smile on his face. He had a job, his employers seemed to reeaaallyyy like him and he had friends all over now. Things were indeed looking up for this man. Living here wasn't such a bad thing after all.
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A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 8: A Surprise Spa Visit From Royalty Part 1
A month has passed since Zikel has worked at the spa. He has made quite a reputation for himself. He had been given the nickname, 'Hands Of Divinity' by both his co-workers and customers alike. Each one of his customers have left feeling better than ever before they came in. And they come to him on a weekly basis. Sometimes even twice a week. And with all the money he has saved up. He has more than enough to begin construction on his home. And he had it all planned out. His home was going to be made of pure stone. And it was going to have an underground and a ground floor. He was going to make the underground his living space and the ground floor the more common rooms of a home. Kind of like his old hideout back home. But a bit more spacious.
"Soon Zikel...you will have a place to call your own once again. I am pretty sure Twi is annoyed with my constant snoring at night by now. I won't have to burden her with it."
He thought to himself as he was waiting for his next customer to come in to his room. He leaned against the wall comfortably just deep in thought as he waited, his tails swaying behind him lazily. He looks out the window up at the sky. Judging by the sun's position, it was nearly noon. It was about the time and day when Rarity would come and see him for her massage.
"Hmmm, not like her to be not early. Hope she is alright."
Just then the door opened up, he smiled and thought that was her.
"Ah hello there Rarity go-"
This wasn't rarity at all, in fact it was Lotus and Aloe. Who seemed to be in a state of disbelief and...happiness?
"Oooh Zikel...good news, good news indeed!"
"That's right! The princesses have made an appointment here for tomorrow!"
Zikel's eyes widened a bit.
"Is that right, ladies?"
"Mhmm! And all three of them have requested you by your nickname! This is such a big opportunity for all of us here Zikel, and especially you!"
"Aah, so Princess Celestia, Luna AND Twilight? I will be busy, that's for sure."
The twins looked at each other then shook their heads
"Nono dear, Princess Cadence, not Twilight."
Zikel arched a brow at this. Just how many princesses in this damn world are there? He nodded to them again.
"And I take it they don't know my real name?"
"Oh no, they sent us a letter requesting you by the nickname 'Hands Of Divinity' no other."
Zikel's grin grew wider at this
"Tia and Lulu are gonna be surprised when they learn it's me. I can't wait till tomorrow."
"Well ladies. I will do us proud. I won't let you down."
They both run up to him and hug against him.
"We know you won't fail sweetie. After all, you are the best masseur we have here. Especially if Rarity requests you all the time. You are moving up in the world!"
"And its all thanks to you both for letting me work here. You two are very kind to me."
"We are happy to have you Zikel. All of us here. Especially me and Aloe. You have helped us or greatly with the private sessions you have so generously given to us."
Zikel cant help but blush and chuckle lightly
"It just too adorable to pass up...when I massage you two.You get all giglely and squirm under my hands. I can't tellif you are enjoying more than I am...wait..."
They both let our synced giggles and gave him a sultry teasing look. Zikel looks away from them when they do.
"You hear that Lotus? He likes it when we squirm under his touch. How leeewwd."
""Indeed Aloe, such a naughty boy. Not that we are complaining though..."
"Ladies come on...you know our sessions are nothing like that...stop teasing me..."
He said with a massive blush coming across his muzzle, the twins giggled again and hugged him close.
"We know they aren't Zikel. But you are so adorable when you get all flustered when we do tease you. Anyways, Rairty is on ehr way in now. We will leave you to your work!"
"Alright ladies. Let me know if you need help with anything else after I am done. Sge is my last appointment for awhile."
They nod as the leave the room, Rarity soon entered and disrobed in front of him, jumping onto the table and getting comfy, wriggling her body in front of him.
"Alright you stud...come and give momma a good rub down.."
Zikel rolled his eyes at her sultry tone and gaze, prepping his hands.
"Rarity...you are just as bad as the twins. Teasing me to no end."
"Only because its fun to make you blush each time darling."
Zikel narrowed his eyes and lifted a brow at her, she gives him a coy look and he shakes his head and begins his work.
"I swear....you all get a sick pleasure out of teasing a virgin male don't you? Well fine, I am going to make sure this rub down leaves you the way I feel, Rarity.."
He said with a wicked grin, She knew exactly what was coming. And she was swaying her tail in excitement. What? No get your mind out of the gutter! That's not happening till later in the story!
"Yes Zikel...give it to me please..."
(*crosses his arms* Reader..stop..reader, come back here! No! Stop! Stop it now!)
"One full body massage coming up."
He straddles over her back and goes to work on her shoulders and back while is tail coils around one of her hind legs and switches between each one over time, this was a new technique he came up with experimentation with the twin. They seemed to like it. The day went on as usual. Flow of customers died down as five o'clock rolled in. They got the place cleaned up and ready for the big royal welcome. They all seemed so excited except for Zikel. he had nothing to worry about really. After all, he knew two fo them so well that he had been writing to them every other day...he may have not mentioned he was working at a spa...oops. Ah well, they would find out tomorrow. He was happy that they were coming, he just didn't show it like anyone else would.
"Alright ladies, I am headed home. I will be here bright and early."
He said as he waved to the twins, the waved back.
"Alright Zikel, be safe hun! See you in the morning!"
Zikel makes his way back to Twilight's castle, the ponies that he sees on his way wave to him and smile. he smiles in return and waves his fingers to them all. He remembers when he first came here, they would always ignore him or keep their distance. but out of all the time he had stayed in the town, they have grown to accept him. Everyone, but Rainbow Dash that is. She held something against him, and he didn't know what it was. But he didn't let that bother him. If she hated him so much, then she hated him. Nothing could be done. He finally made it to the castle, opening the door and walking into the main room after he closes it behind him. He then sees Twilight sitting on one of the sofas, looking at him with a sly smile and narrowed eyes, lifting up a scroll and arches a brow.
"Well well, mister 'Hands Of Divinity'. You have gotten the attention of not just the two royal sisters, but my sister in law as well."
Zikel blinks a bit and smiles sheepishly, running a hand through his long white hair.
"Ahaaa. so Cadence is her name huh? But why would she make a trip all the way from the Crystal Empire just for a day at the spa?"
"Actually Zikel, that's not the purpose that she is coming here for. We are going to be spending a few days together. I will be joining the three of them as well."
"Y-you all want me to give you massages?!"
"That's right Zikel. You are gonna be one busy dragon tomorrow. Don't worry though. The spa will only be exclusive for me and the others tomorrow. We don't want to overwork you after all."
Zikel gives a mocking bow and smirks
"Oh your majesty, your kindness knows no bounds..."
He said in a mocking noble kind of tone, he then comes up to see her sticking her tongue out at him. He chuckled lightly and walked up to her, hugging her gently and petting her on the head.
"Its all good Twi. After all you have done for me, I would be happy to give you a massage with my magic hands. Its the least I could do."
"You are so sweet to me Zikel, to all my friends. Even though Rainbow Dash doesn't like you...you still smile to her."
"It's whatever with her Twi. Anyways, I am off to bed. Early morning for me!"
"Alright, sweet dreams Zikel, I look forward to tomorrow."
--The Next Day, 10:30 AM--
Everything was ready and in place, the staff members that were needed were standing by. Suddenly the doors opened up, as guards came in, so to did the princesses. Zikel was hiding in the shadows of both Lotus and Aloe. As they walked up to greet the princess, Celestia was the first to speak.
"I am very happy that you took this time to cater to us ladies. And to top itall off free of charge. We thank you both and your staff very very much. But first. I would like to meet this...'Hands Of Divinity'. I and the other princesses have heard so much about this pony from Ponyville and Canterlot ponies alike."
The twin giggled lightly and stepped sideways, as their shadows parted, a dark figure rose from them,spreading it dark wings and now coming into full materialization. Both Celestia's and Luna's jaws dropped as they saw their most dearest friend appear before them. Cadence on the other hand was a little put off by his...shadowy appearance, but Twilight reassured her that all was well.
"You majesties, I will be the one who will be giving you the massages that are ready for you when you should desire them. Please let me know when-"
"Zikel!!!"
Shouted both of the royal sisters, galloping towards him and pouncing him and a dual hug, wrapping their forearms around him tightly
"We have missed you so very much my dear. We had plans to come and see you after we were done here. But we never knew that you were the so called 'Hands Of Divinity'! Why did you keep this from us in our letters?!"
Zikel fell back and hugged them both as they pounced him, he could only smile and shrug.
"Well,I didn't think it would matter ladies. After all, you two are way to busy to worry about a simple dragon."
"That is just untrue Zikel, you are more than just a simple dragon. You are my and Tia's greatest friend. And we care for you deeply. And I am not going to lie...to find out you are the one we have been hearing about...I am...rather excited about it."
Celestia chuckled lightly and sighed
"More than anything though Zikel, we are happy to see you again.."
"As am I Tia, Lulu, As am I."
Everypony in the room was in a bit of a shock, even Twilight. To see the rulers of Equestria react in such a way to Zikel, it was almost...unreal. They got off of him and gave him some room to stand up, looking over to Cadence who looked up at Zikel with an unsure stare. Celestia spoke again.
Zikel, let me introduce you to Princess Mia Amore Cadenza. Or what she prefers, Princess Cadence, Ruler of the Crystal Empire. Cadence, this is the dragon I told you about. Zikel, he has been great friends with me and my sister. Along with Twilight and her friends as well."
Cadence walks up to Zikel, cautiously. She locks eyes with him and stares deep into his heart and soul. She sees nothing but darkness behind those eyes of his, but feels an extreme warmth from...somewhere inside of him. She frowns as he did not show his heart to her, but nods to him
"My little sister has told me a lot about you Zikel. You are a kind soul and will do anything for his friends. But you seem to not bare your heart to anyone. Why is that? What are you afraid of?"
Zikel flinched a bit and averted his gaze from the group.
"Cadence!"
The other three said in a quick and hushed tone. She quickly lowered her head and closed her eyes.
"I...am sorry I asked you that. As the princess of love. It saddens me when I cannot see another pony's heart."
Zikel shakes his head.
"All I can tell you...is that too much happiness, can break the fragile balance, and the great the happiness, the greater the tragedy when it strikes."
The words that came from his mouth made everypony in the room gasp quietly, even the twins. This dragon that was usually joking around with everypony was suddenly a totally different dragon, and it made them both scared and concerned for him. The room was silent forafew moments..then his mood changed as he smiled.
"Alright everyone,let's get these ladies comfortable and pampered, time is wasting!"
"Right!"
They all shouted and began to head to the work stations, ready to help out any of the princesses with whatever they wanted. Zikel looks over to the four of them and nods.
"Well when you are all four ready for your massages, please come to the back room. Everything is set up. I will be waiting."
Celestia tried calling out to him to stop him. but he was already around the corner and gone. She sensed something in him when he spoke those words. Something that was...uneasy and she was going to find out what it was. She joined her friends in the herbal bath. The twins followed Zikel in the back, concern on their faces as they approached him. Memories of the past were starting to creep upon him again. It would seem that Cadence had triggered something within his heart. While he didn't have the nightmares anymore. Bringing up such close things brought him to his parents and friends of whom he had lost. he fought back tears as he kept hsi back to the twins. Doing his best to hide his sadness from his voice.
"Come on ladies...you should be out there with them. I need to get a few more things ready back here. I am alright...I promise."
They approached closer to him, Zikel moved away. They did it again, so did he.
"Zikel...what's wrong sweetie? Please talk to us..."
"Yeah, we are here for you. We may be your employer, but you are our friend as well.."
Zikel's breathing was shaky, he was doing his best to hide his tears and keeping them from spilling out from his eyes, he suddenly collapses to his knees and places his face in his hands.The twins sees this and instantly gallop towards him, coming in front of him and hugging him close, doing their best to calm him down. he lifts his head up to gaze to them, they have never ever since Zikel like this. thaty usual smirk he had on his face and his playful nature...gone.
"I am scared...Lotus...Aloe...I am scared I may lose everything and everyone again. All this happiness I am receiving. Its throwing everything out of balance...and it will all be taken from me..I don't want to go through that again.."
The twins continued to hug him closely and comfort him, Lotus gently lifts his chin with her hoof.
"Zikel..listen to me...there is only one thing you need to know. It is okay for you to talk about these things. You bottle it up too much and this happens. We know that you have a strong heart and a strong will, but remember this. You are not weak because you shed tears for your fallen loved ones. Even the mightiest warrior sheds tears for those he loved and had lost. Sodon't you think for a second...that you are weak for crying. You are a strong, brave and caring dragon who cares deeply about the others around him. And that, takes a lot of courage and will. And we know, that you will fight anything that threatens what you have here with us...with everypony here in our world...your world."
"Lotus is right Zikel...you aren't ever going to lose us or the others. You are too strong for that!"
Zikel began to shed more tears quietly as he hugged them closer against him. he wasn't sobbing, but the streams were quick and pouring
"Thank you both....you don't know how much I needed to hear those words. Especially from ponies like you. I know now I have one I can fight for and protect. And I will be here to do just that."
He hugged them once more before getting to his feet, wiping his tears away from his face and nodding.
"Alright...its time we got to it. Make sure they get what the need while I finish up back here for when they are ready."
"We are on it Zikel!"
They both said before hugging him once more and trotting off, he makes his way into the room he had prepared for allfour of them. Four tables. he closes his eyes and splits himself into four copies. He waits now.
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A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 9: A Surprise Spa Visit From Royalty Part 2
Zikel leaned against the wall as he waited for the group of princesses to come when they did. He had gathered himself together after his break down. Lotus was right. It was bad to hold in all that pain for a long time. Zikel could not afford to be so careless with his emtions though. If he would have broken down in front of everyone that was out there. It would have been a bad day all around and he will not ruin it for them. He is taken from his thoughts as the door opened. The princesses were lead in by Lotus, who looked directly at Zikel, giving him a look over to see if he was doing better. She smiles warmly to the dragon,he gave one back. As he came off the wall, as did his copies. They all walked over to each table, one awaiting each princess.
"If you would please come and make yourself comfortable. I will get started."
He said in a professional tone of voice. The mares walked up to the tables and paid flat on their stomachs. Luna already seeking out the real one as she laid there. And seeing that her sister was the lucky one, she pouted for a moment but giggles lightly. Zikel's eyes shifted to Luna, as did the copies.
"Lulu...don't you even start..."
She gives him a coy look with an arched brow, but giggles
"I won't say a thing..."
"Good girl."
The others looked between him and Luna as they talked. Each copy and himself climb on the table and straddle over the princsses' bodies, he cracks his knuckles and places his hands on their backs, the copies doing the exact thing he did, same pressure and everything. As he massaged their bodies, they talked about random things. catching up and learning about things from each other they never had time to discuss. They noticed that Zikel was quiet the whole time.This bothered Cadence especially. Did she upset him with her question from earlier? She would be tense, but Zikel's copy was rubbing that right out of her body. She let out a low whimper of delight as he was indeed living up to his nickname. as did the others as well. He places his hands on their backs. the copies following his every move, and a loud crack was heard from all four of the mares' backs. They shuddered and slumped onto the table. Celestia kept her eyes on Zikel, Did she have the real one giving her a massage or was he just a copy. He caught her looking up at him.
"I am not being too rough am I Tia?"
"No...you are my dear..but after we are done here. I would like to talk to you in private. if that is alright with you."
"I don't see why not."
Celestia nodded, smiling to him gently before she laid her head back on her forelegs. suddenly, all the princesses' eyes shot open when he began massaging their wings. letting out sensual moans of delight when he did. This was nothing new to him. He had gotten used to massaging near sensitive spots of many ponies. He just kept doing his work, eyes solely focused on his task. Although he could hear their tails thumping against the tables as him and his clones worked their wings.. After awhile, he finally finished massaging their whole body. He dismounts them and all his copies converge back into just one Zikel. He nods to the princesses as he walks over to his station, getting things all cleaned up.
"I do hope you four enjoyed yourselves. Please, feel free to make an appointment with me anytime." I am sure being royalty can get very stressful."
He said as he turned around and saw....four limp alicorns with goofy grins on their faces. This cheered up Zikela little. He couldn't help but give a little smile.
"By the sun...'Hands Of Divinity' indeed..."
"Yes dear sister.....not even our best at the castle and in the city can compare to this dragon..."
"Zikel...I believe you owe me an apology..you have been staying with me this long and you haven't been giving me any free massages?! Shame on you mister."
"I I have to admit mister Zikel... I wish you fell into the Crystal Empire instead of here..."
"Well, thank you for your compliments ladies. Take your time getting up from the tables. I will be outside the room if you need me."
Zikel walked out of the room and closed the door behind him, the princesses laid their on the tables, feeling heavy and relaxed from his hands. As he walks down the hall. The staff met him with wide eyed stares, anxious for the result.
"They are going to be there for awhile everyone. Apparently my skills have turned them into jello. In other words, they loved it."
They all cheered and celebrated. This was going to boost business and get them even more bits. While everyone was celebrating, he smiles lightly and slips passed them and outside of the building and in the back. he leans against the building and lowers his head in thought. After a few minutes, an orb of light appears in front of him, and out of it appears Celestia. She smiles to him gently and walks up to him, lightly placing a hoof under his chin and lifting it up so their eyes met.
"Zikel I sensed great distress when you left earlier to get things prepared for us. It..had me worried. Would you care to speak with me about it?"
Zikel looked into her beautiful purple eyes. He remembered what the twins had told him. And he knew Celestia enough to be the one he could start opening up to. He reaches up and gently places a hand around her hoof that held his chin.
"Celestia...Cadence knew that something was wrong when she tried to look in my heart. She may be the princess of love, but that doesn't mean she needed to go snooping around for it. The questions that she asked triggered a large amount of emotion I had bottled up inside...I broke down in the back..."
Celestia widen her eyes a bit and frowned, but nodded.
"She was only looking out for her little sister Zikel. You understand that right?"
"Of course I do...but still...I haven't cried that much since I lost my parents. If the twins hadn't come to comfort me...I probably would have left without saying anything."
Celestia suddenly brought her hooves to his chest and leaned against him gently, gazing into his eyes even more
"Zikel, I know you don't want to bother me or Lulu. But when you are in need of a friend who can be there to comfort you when you aren't around the others. I want you to come to the castle and come to us. No more hiding secrets from me and Lulu...please. We have both grown to care for you very deeply. And to know that you have been troubled behind the smile you always bare. It hurts me especially to know you have been suffering."
Zikel arches a brow as she said that.
"Especially? How do you mean Tia?"
A small blush comes across her cheeks as she averts her eyes for a moment, then looks back up to him.
"I have grown more fond of you over the time we have been writing to each other Zikel. I didn't reveal this to Lulu..but I am always so excited when I get a letter from you...I rush to my chambers to read it every day I receive one. And I have seen Lulu do the same as she receives her letters from you. Zikel....you may be having the rulers of Equestria falling head over hooves with you. At least...I know I am. Lulu is hard to read sometimes."
Zikel blinked a bit as he looked into Celestia's eyes again..by the gods....she was serious! This wasn't a tease or anything. She was telling the truth about how she felt about him. Zikel's heart began to pound hard. nearly ready to explode, she frowned at him as he fell silent.
"Did I...saw something I shouldn't have? Did I come on too strong?"
"Tia...you are making a big mistake telling me these things. I cannot give you a proper answer because I am scared to..I care for you and Luna deeply. But if my happiness gets even more out of balance than it is now. I will be dragging you and her into my suffering. And I do believe you don't want that from me when that tragedy happens."
"Zikel...you are safe in this world now. The things that happened back in your world won't happen here. I promise you that. Me and Luna won't ever let you be hurt again. And we will destroy those who do try to hurt you. We consider you a member of our family."
Zikel thinks on it for a moment, then gaze back down at her.
You truly want you and your sister to go down my path with me? It won't be easy when the time comes."
"Yes Zikel, me and Luna have already discussed this before. We want to be there when you need sompony."
Zikel couldn't help but wrap his arms around her tightly and hug her closely. Celestia blinks a few times but closes her eyes and nuzzles into him.
"I can't give you a proper answer right now Celestia...give me a few days to think this over...and I will let you know if I am ready to bare my heart to you."
"Well my dear, maybe this will help you decide..."
She leans up and locks lips with him lovingly, his eyes widened as she did this, but he didn't fight back..that was his very first kiss, given to him by royalty! A common rogue winning the affections of not one, but BOTH rulers of the land?! What in the seven hells was going on around here?! Celestia slowly pulled from the kiss and narrowed her eyes at him with a smile.
"I shall be waiting Zikel..but don't keep me waiting too long. Its not polite to keep a princess waiting.."
She said as she walked away from him and disappeared behind a corner. Zikel slid down the wall and onto his rear, still in a bit of shock.
"What in the name of all shadows just happened...?"
A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 10: Leave Things As They Are...For Now
It had been three days since Celestia had told Zikel about her feelings towards him. It has been on his mind for that long while he was busy finally building his home. He asked the twins at the spa for them to let him take off for awhile so he could do just that. They agreed and allowed him happily, after all, he was one of the best and most hard working. A little time off would do him some good. As he worked on his home, he had a bunch of worker ponies helping him out as well. Not for free of course, he was going to make sure that they were well compensated even though they denied his money. But he was insistent As they worked hard through the day, thought and thought about his answer to Celestia. She was a wonderful mare and being the lover of royalty wouldn't be so bad...but at the same time, he felt it was being rushed, like he didn't know the royal sisters long enough and did want to know them more.
"That will have to be my answers, for mine, Lulu's, and Tia's sake..and I have an obligation as a man to respond in kind...."
After the day's work was over, they had gotten around to finishing the structure itself, now all that was left was to get the underground going and fully built. This was going to take a week and a half to do. But he didn't mind. Suddenly a letter appeared out of a small orb of light and fell in front of him, he caught it as it fell from then air. he opened it up to see it was from Celestia. He sighed quietly and read it to himself
Dear Zikel,
I hope this letter finds you doing alright. Lulu and I want to extend an invitation to come and stay at the castle for a day or two while your home is still undergoing construction. It would please us both to have you accept our invitation.
Yours truly,
Tia
Zikel closed the letter and slid it into his pocket. he sighs again
"I suppose this means I must also give her my answer as well tonight then...very well, no getting around it!"
He said as he went to gather the things he needed from Twilight's castle. She was out doing things with Cadence, so he just slipped in, grabbed his stuff and slipped back out. Unfolding his wings and beginning to take flight, he lifts into the air and begins making his way to the castle. He had gotten used to flying now, it was actually pretty damn cool now that he had wings. He could soar the skies now like the eagles he had watched back home, doing barrel rolls and loops and all kinds of fun tricks.
As he came upon the castle main courtyard, he was stopped by two guards as he landed and looked him up and down, then back up to him.
"You are Zikel, I presume?"
"Sure am."
"Please follow us, princess Celestia is awaiting you in the south garden. She has been...eagerly waiting for your arrival."
Zikel arched a brow at this
"Was she really so excited to see me?"
They just shrugged/ As they came upon the garden, the guards left him there and told him that she was just around the corner. he nodded and went into the garden, seeing Celestia sitting on a stone garden bench and looking out over the city. Zikel cleared his throat to get her attention, she nearly jumped out of her fur, turning around and eyeing him, spreading her wings and flying to him, pouncing him and nuzzling into him.
"Oh you came! Lulu is going to be so excited!
"Tia I-"
"Ooooh we will get to have so much fun to...it will be like a sleepover!"
He places a finger over her lips, quieting her down
"Tia...I know what you are really after. otherwise you wouldn't have me out here alone with you. And before we get too much into my stay here, I want to tell you my answer."
She gets off of him and rubs her hoof into the ground a bit, looking down and then up at him as he stands, walking over to the railing and placing his hands on it.
"And that would be..?"
"I cant Tia, I-"
"But Zikel...why not? Why won't you-"
"Tia, let me finish."
He looked at her to see her eyes nearly filling to the brim with tears, he walks up to her and gently cradles her face in his hands.
"I cant for now Tia. I am truly flattered that you...really like me in that way. And I really like you to. But I don't know you all that well for us to progress this quickly. You are a wonderful mare. And to get to know you and Lulu more would make me a happy man-...dragon. besides, going into this too fast..it would be my first relationship...and I am terribly inexperienced with that kind of stuff. Soplease give it time, and let this progress naturally. Can you do that Tia? Can you leave things as they are...for now? And let me get to know the sweet and beautiful mares behind their crowns? This applies to Lulu as well. Back home, having two females in one relationship would be frowned upon. But you seem to want her to become closer to me as well. Why is that?"
She nodded and wiped her tears away, giving him a warm smile, answering him without trying to cry
Lulu and I are practically immortal Zikel. And it is hard for us to find lovers in our lives. But someone like you. a dragon is nearly immortal is a potential mate for both of us. And should the love between us and you be true. You will be given immortality as well. To be our mate eternally. But our last partners did not belong with us apparently. So when you came here to Equestria..and you showed just how sweet and lovable you are..I guess I just...I just."
She was about to burst into tears. But Zikel wrapped his arms around her tightly and nuzzled into her, running his fingers through her flowing mane gently, she closes her eyes and nuzzling into his neck
"I get it Tia...both of you were lonely and heartbroken.I am not going to say I know how it feels..I have been lonely for only nine years. But to be alone for as long as you have. I cannot imagine all that time. In all honestly Tia...I do hope this relationship will progress. Because you and Lulu deserve it. And I won't lie, being the eternal mate of two immortal rulers does sound pretty fun."
"So...you are saying yes?"
"No, I not saying yes, but I am also not saying no. As I said, let them progress...I am not going anywhere Tia. Remember that. Now, in light of the conversation we just had. Do you still want to have me over for the next couple of days? I can understand if this has...put a damper on things and I will return to Ponyville right away."
He felt her forearms tighten around his form more, feeling her shake her head
"No..please don't..if anything I want you to stay more. Now that I know me and Lulu won't have to try and rush you...that we can take our time now. I want you here, and I know she will after I tell her about this. Also...Zikel...would object to me and Lulu sharing a chamber with you? We were hoping that..well...you would allow us to sleep with you. Its has been a very very long time since we have had the feeling of a male wrap his arms around us. That's all we seek. Nothing...sexual"
Zikel could see the large blush forming her her pretty white cheers, she looks up at him hopefully and gives him the most adorable puppy eyes ever. he can't say no to that, even if he wanted to.
"Honestly Tia, that would be nice...especially being a dragon now..I get colder than I used to real quick."
Her smile curves up even more and lightly bounces on her back hooves as she hugs him tighter. He couldn't help but chuckle at how she acted. She was...like a young school girl who was with her all time crush. And...Zikel reaaaalllyyy like it.
"You know Tia...behind that royal act you put on for your subjects...the real you is quite adorable. Like a little filly that can't seemto get her boyfriend out of her mind."
Celestia let out a whine and hid her face from him.
"S-so?! Luna is ten times worse than I am..you'll see!"
"Oh and I should also mention. That kiss to gave me...was my first one. And I won't lie, your lips are so very soft and gentle...it was very enjoyable.. Which is why I really hope this works between us Tia."
She covered her mouth with her hooves and widens her eyes.
"I-I gave you your first kiss...? Zikel...how old are you?"
"Oh, am eighteen. I turn nineteen in about a couple months. I am a winter baby."
Celestia's blush deepened as she looked away from him
"You are just barely an adult Zikel...and I took your first kiss...I feel so dirty..I am thousands of years old and you are just beginning your life."
"That may be Tia. But you act about as young as a girl just getting out of seventeen. And its adorable. Plus, I think you and Lulu are very beautiful. You don't look a day over twenty-four..then again you are immortal so that could be why. And remember Tia, I am an adult now. I know Spike is eighteen as well, but in your world, he is just a baby dragon. I have fully matured. My form just changed."
Celestia smiled as he called her beautiful. He was such a sweet man, and even though he denied her his heart for now, she still loved him even more even though she would have to wait longer. But she didn't mind now she knew things could go along naturally now.
So Tia, what are our plans for the evening hmm?"
She released her forearms from around him, plopping on her rear and fiddled with her hooves a bit, looking up at him from under her mane a bit. Another adorable thing she did. Just as she was about to tell him, they heard a voice calling out to her. The voice Zikel heard made him cringe.
Aunt Celestia, I have a commoner I need you to punish, she ran into me and spilled this disgusting ill prepared soup all over my beautiful coat and-"
As he came around the corner, Celestia stood up properly and get her royal face back on, Zikel stood there getting ready to vomit. This unicorn was already pissing him off to no end with his damned annoying whining. He was dragging along a young grey pegasus with blonde hair and rather...strange looking eyes. Them seemed to be all over the place. He was dragging her by her hair, and she was crying in pain as he did.
"Please sir I didn't do it on purpose! Let me go, you are hurting me!"
"Shut you you lowly commoner! I can do worse if I so pleased!"
Zikel had just about enough of this, he drew his dagger from behind him and suddenly shadow stepped towards him, moving in zigzags and leaving black afterimages as he moved, as if just sliding on the ground. The edge of his blade came to the noble's jugular vein, this made the unicorn freeze up and release the pegasus mare, she flew behind Zikel and hid there, peeking out from behind one of his legs shaking in fear.
"W-what do you think you are doing you foul beast, get your claws off me. I am prince Blueblood, and I will have you executed for this!"
He presses the blade a bit harder against his neck
"You know what friend? Anyone tell you that you lack compassion for those less fortunate than you are? I could cut your throat and leave you bleeding right here. I do not answer to you, nor do I answer to the rulers of this realm. I am not of it. But, for Tia's sake. I am willing to spare your pathetic life. It's nobles like you that give the good ones a bad name."
Celestia watched this with pure shock on her face, but did indeed answer.
"He is right nephew. while he isn't a member of this realm...yet. He could spill your blood and I couldn't do anything about it.I would be extremely unhappy with him. But he is right non the less. Be grateful he is deciding to let you go on my behalf. Now then, accidents happen. And a little bit of soup falling into your coat can be easily fixed with a bath. You honestly need one to clean your attitude anyways"
Zikel laughed as he walked away from Blueblood.
"Good one Tia."
He looked down at the little pony who was smiling warmly up to him, she leaned up and hugged him tightly, nuzzling into his leg.
"T-thank you Zikel...always looking out for me aren't you?"
"As always Derpy, just be more careful next time alright?"
He said as he reached down and ruffled her mane a bit, but petted her as well.
"Now, get back home, I am sure your daughter is wondering where you are."
She nodded and gave him one last hug before flying off. Blueblood was not pleased, the petty insults began.
"Aunty why is this....creature even here? He is a disgusting dragon."
"This 'disgusting dragon' as you call him is my personal guest nephew. And you will treat him with respect. He is mine and Lulu's best friend."
"THIS is the friend you boast about all the time?! HA, what a joke! Why he is nothing more than a commoner himself!"
Alright, Zikel was ready to shred this fool down verbally
"I may not be of royal or noble blood, but I have more nobility than you ever will. that much is true. And I will have you know, I bath regularly. And also, I would show Tia here what you really are, but i don't think she wants me to pull down my pants and show me ass"
Celestia nearly lost it then, she had a hoof over her mouth and nearly went into a giggling fit,a big one to. Blueblood was steaming,his horn began to charge up, he reared back and threw a lightning spell at the laughing princess. Zikel was quick to react, he only had time to get in the way of the spell and block it. He lets out a growl of pain as the stream of lightning hits his body over and over. Celestia'seyes widen in both shock and anger as she saw Zikel get struck over and over.
"Blueblood, that is enough!!! Stop this now!!!"
"Oh no dear Aunty, I knew he would move in front of you to protect you, I am going tokill this commoner, and throw him into the fire...he is going to pay.."
Zikel suddenly lets out a low growl of anger, his eyes shifting in Blueblood direction as he began to fight against the spell, he pushed Celestia out of the way and sunk into the ground, he traveled the shadow of the lightning quickly and reached up from the ground, dragging him down into the shadow of a near by tree. What went on in the little dimension...lets just say Blueblood was coming out covered more in blood than soup. A few minutes passed, and suddenly Blueblood was flung from the shadows, covered entirely in small cuts from head to hoof Zikel flew out after him and straddled over his struggling form,he locked a hand around the unicorn's throat and began to squeeze,smoke rising from the dragon's nostrils and a look of pure bloodlust in his eyes, he readies his blade to cut the throat of the unicorn, but he got a better idea.
"So you like to throw lightning spells at your family do you? Well then, I am going to make sure that you won't be able to do any magic...at all."
Celestia only watched in horror at what was unfolding, she tried to stop him
"Zikel please...don't kill him. He may be a lowly coward, but he is still part of my family..."
"Oh don't worry Tia...I am not going to kill him."
He said, even though his was still choking the life out of the unicorn, his legs kicking and shaking under the large dragon. He brings his blade to the tip of the unicorn's horn and slowly begins to drive the blade into it, Blueblood's eyes began to widen and he let out a scream of pain and thrashed about even harder.
"How does that feel hmm? You feel the pain of others you caused with your petty nature and cowardly ways? Attacking when backs are turned. Does that hurt like hell?
"Stop, it hurts!!! Release me!"
Suddenly the blade is shoved in deeper, and with a quick twist, Blueblood's horn snapped in two and fell from his forehead with a blean cut, blood dripping down his face now. Zikel takes the pieces of the horn and holds them in front of Blueblood
"How does it feel to have something taken from you that you will never see again 'noble'? Not so fun is it?"
He asked before crushing the horn in his lands into dust and letting it flow away.He walks over to the beaten unicorn and kicks him in the ribs,sending him out the way he entered. Celestia looked at Zikel with pure fright in her eyes. This normally sweet and playful young dragon was now...a monster. Zikel sheathed his dagger and looks back over to Celestia. He approached her slwoly,she began to back away from him, her eyes met his as he got to her. He suddenly fell to his knees and lowered himself down a bit.
"Please forgive me Tia...this whole entire evening was ruined because of my anger I had towards nobles like him frommy world. Someone like him had a friend of mine executed in front of me. And I guess...the way he was treating one of my friends here..and the fact that he aimed at you to get to me..I lost control."
Celestia went quiet fora few minutes, Zikel nodded and stood up as he went to grab his things
"Understood, I will leave this place then. Sorry about cutting him up. Don't worry, he won't die, just have multiple scars is all. See you around Tia."
He was about to lift off until he felt her forearms wrap around his waist, pulling him down. he looks over his shoulder at her.
"Tia...?"
"You are a damned fool Zikel...stepping in the line of a powerful lightning spell to protect me. He wouldn't have hurt me as much. But you fell right into his trap. But...I can honestly say..it made me happy knowing that you would do something like that for me if the situation called for it. Please, lets go inside..we need to get you cleaned up after that...And Iam going to be sharing that bath with you. No negotiations."
She said as she would press against him, escorting him into the castle, walking passed the injured hornless unicorn who was now being tended to by the royal doctors.
"You..will pay for this dearly, beast."
Zikel stopped and turned his gaze to Blueblood.
"Whatever you plan to do, I may not be so nice next time. And if you EVER use Tia or Lulu like that against me again. You will lose more than your horn."
He said as he and Celestia began to walk to the castle.
A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 11: Sentencing And Bonding Time
Luna sat on the throne as Night Court was taking place, she had finished let last case and was about to wrap up for the evening. That was, until one of her guards ran up to her side and whispered into her ears,passing along info on what had just happened. All was quiet for a few moments.
"HE DID WHAT?!?! BRING HIM BEFORE ME, NOW!""
She shouted in the royal Canterlot voice. Oh she was furious, her mane nearly flowing like fire now as she had found out what had transpired in the south garden that early evening. Soon the night guard brought the still battered and injured unicorn. He was half way bandaged up since he was just drug out of his hospital room in the medical wing. They tossed him in front of Luna as she sat there on the throne, very unhappy with what had just happened.
"So then, dear nephew...you decided to cause more trouble again did you?"
Blueblood struggled to his hooves and glared up at Luna.
"The beast started it all! I was trying to get a commoner punished for spilling soup on me, and then he had to go an mess things up! I demand that he be punished and put in the jails to rot!"
Luna was ready to explode, in fact that is what happened.
"THAT IS NOT THE POINT BLUEBLOOD! Do you know the severity of your crimes this evening?! You not only attacked someone me and Celestia hold very dear to our hearts, but you attacked her so that he would get in your way?! You could have really hurt them both, you bastard! Not to mention attacking one of the rulers of Equestria is grounds for treason and betrayal! You have really fucked up this time nephew. And there isn't any amount of begging you can do to save your sorry ass."
Blueblood finally realized what was going on, he did indeed start begging and pleading to Luna for forgiveness. saying his usual lines over and over. But Luna wasn't having any of it. She was going to do something Even Celestia wouldn't have done. This was HER throne for the evening.
"Blueblood, as punishment for your crimes. I here by strip you of your nobility and title of 'prince', and retain all your assets and estates. And hand them over to Zikel for compensation on the crime against him. You will also be exiled to the outer lands of Equestria. And for the record Blueblood, you were always such a pompous and arrogant stallion. And somewhere along the line, a mistake like you came into this world. How I pity your parents."
"You can't do this Luna, I am Prince Blueblood! I will not be treated this way!"
He said as he tried to jump at her, but the night guards grabbed him and held him down. Luna got up from her throne and walked over to him, looking down at him with a dark glare
"Not anymore Blueblood...you are nothing now. But a pathetic, lowly, hornless unicorn who has nothing. Fitting is it not?""
She looks over to her guards, a dark smirk on her face
"Gentlecolts, do see that this lowly commoner is escorted out of Canterlot and away from the other cities.And make sure he never comes crawling back again."
They both smile wickedly and chuckle
"With pleasure princess Luna...with pleasure." They began to drag him off, kicking and screaming out random nonsense as he was taken away
"And with that, Night Court is done. You are all dismissed for the night."
She said to her remaining guards, they smile and bow to her, taking their leave to go and find their posts or change shifts with the others. Luna walked down the hall with a bit of spring in her step. It felt good to be rid of that useless nephew of theirs now.
"I wonder if Zikel ever made it here...I suppose it's time I got and see!"
She said as she picked up in a trot.
--Royal Bath--
As Zikel walked in behind Celestia, his eyes widened at how...spacious and luxurious this bath was. three fountains that had unicorns with water pouring from their horns, the tub itself was in-ground and trimmed with gold. The tiles were marble and shinny. Zikel usually just finds himself a lake outside of the city he lived in back in his world, but this...this was just to much to take in all at once. Celestia looked back at his face and couldn't help but giggle. She removed her regalia and placed it on the counter top. walking over to Zikel and lightly dragging him by his sleeve towards the bath with her magic
"Come on now Zikel, strip!"
"Uuuh well maybe I should just-"
"Nope!"
She said as she would begin to undo all his buckles and straps of his outfit, tossing off his clothing to the side, as she did this, she eyes his form, she was smiling widely until she came across the large burn mark that covered his back, she felt her heart sink a bit. Zikel sighed gently as she saw his wound.
"That's why I didn't want to take a bath in the first place Tia...I didn't want you to see the damage..."
She came up to him and lightly wrapped her hooves around him from behind, snuggling into him and lightly placing ehr horn against the wound, using her magic to heal it up as best as she could. There was a large scar there after she had done so. she then pressed against him more
"I am sorry this happened Zikel...if it hadn't been for me-"
"Stop right there Tia, this isn't your fault, nor do I blame you for it. I was the one that provoked him. Clearly he didn't find being brought down with words wasn't to his liking. So I paid the price for my carelessness. So don't you dare feel sorry for me. It was my mistake. Now then, smile for me Tia. After all, it is bath time for me and you."
She did indeed smile after his reassuring words, she then leaped into the bath, splashing the water when she did. Zikel followed in, his body sinking into the hot water. He lets out a sigh of delight as he experiences his first hot bath ever. It was very nice..too nice in fact. Celestia came up behind him and began to play with his hair gently. She thought his hair was absolutely lovely. So long and straight, and it rested behind his horns so neatly
"Zikel...I never had the chance to say this. But you have such lovely long hair. I have never seen it on a dragon before, nor have I seen it so white."
He chuckled lightly.
"Would you believe it was as black as the shadows I cast? It seemed as I changed form when I came,My skin was pale andi my hair was raven black. Seems things have reversed. But you are very kind in saying this Tia. Normally I just keep it hid in my hood. But as I have been living here in Ponyville, I have had less of a reason to hide my face everyday. Just like these runes on my body that I carved into my flesh, they were solid black, and now they are...a bright blue. I suppose I will never fully understand why I was brought here. But now I am happier than ever."
"And I am happy that you are happy Zikel. Would you...mind terribly if I brushed your hair for you?"
Zikel blushed at the mention of his hair being brushed, and by her to boot.
"I mean, if you really want to Tia, feel free. It's...a little embarrassing though..never really had anyone brush my hair before...nor do I barely even do so."
She lets out a snort and giggles lightly.
"I swear...you males are all the same. Always a little embarrassed when somepony wants to pamper you."
She levitated a brush over to them and began running it through his hair repeatedly,making sure to get every single strand. he didn't want to admit it, but it really did feel nice. his wings twitched a bit as a shudder ran down his spine
"Its not that Tia..well that's not the only reason anyways. I am just not used to being pampered period. You know what kind of life I grew up with. So all this...its just so unusual for me."
"I know this Zikel. But you need to loosen up a little and enjoy it, this isn't like your world. you don't have to look over your shoulder...well, not as much anyways. And besides, you are with me now. So relax you silly dragon."
Zikel would sigh and begins to let his body become less tense, he leans a bit more, Tia letting him rest against her front while she brushes his hair. She was right...things could finally become less stressful when he was here with her. Zikel's ears picked up the sound of hooves making their way into the bathroom, Celestia giggling lightly
"Looks like she found us Zikel.."
Zikel shifts his eyes a bit then looks at Celestia, then the doorway
"Oooh boy...something tells me there is going to be trouble Tia..."
And sure enough, it was Luna, coming in with wide eyes as she saw what was going on. Celestia could only giggle at the sheepish smile Zikel was giving Luna. She narrows her eyes at both him and her.
"So you both decided on bath time, and didn't bother to come find me? For shame dear sister, for shame."
She said with a wicked grin, placing her own regalia on the counter next to Celestia's and jumps into the water, splashing both him and her sister, his hair falling into his face, he crosses his arms, not amused. Tia's hard work, wasted. Celestia let out a whine.
"Luluuuu...I was brushing his hair and now you ruined it!"
She said with puffed up cheeks and a slight glare. Luna giggled to herself and splashed Celestia a bit
"That's what you get for not inviting me!"
"Now ladies....let;s all calm down and-"
He is suddenly met with a small wave of water that washed over him completely, then meeting its target,which was Luna.
"Oh you will pay for that dear sister."
Suddenly it was an all out water war between the two, Zikel just sat on the other side of the bath, lowering himself more into the water and just watching them with narrowed eyes, blowing bubbles in the water. After about a few more minutes of that, everything died down and they spent the reason of the bath washing and scrubbing him down, Zikel tried to return the favor, but they wouldn't sit still long enough, nor did they want to stop washing him. After the bath, Zikel slips into his boxers and hangs his clothing on the chair in the chambers he was staying in, the bed was large and had dark blue pillows and blankets, the room itself was white marble with gold trimming. He walked over to the bed and fell face first into it's softness. He lets out a muffles sigh.
"I could never get used to this kind of...luxury life. I am a rogue and always will be. but I admit, my evening with the girls was nice..I enjoyed it."
Zikel heard the door open and heard hooves running in, sure enough, the two sisters leaped onto the bed and snuggled up close to him. Zikel smiled lightly and layed on his back, pulling the blanket over the three of them and wraps them in each of his arms, they get in close and rest their forearm over his torso and smile warmly.
"Good night Zikel..."
They both said
"Good night girls...sweet dreams to you both."
And with that, they fall into a deep slumber.
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A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 12: Rollin' In The Bits And Summoned To The Crystal Empire
Zikel slowly opened his eyes, they met the shinny white ceiling over him. He couldn't help but notice that his right arm was lacking a princess in it. He laughed lightly
"Right, Tia has to raise the sun...wonder how long it took her to prey herself away from me."
He looked over at Luna who was still sleeping soundly in his left arm, a smile on her face as she was fully pressed against him. He finally realized where his hand had been resting while she had been resting his his arm, it was soft and supple, and he had the urge to squeeze. Blushing a bit as he quickly removed his hand from her, she suddenly whispers to him
"Awwww, that felt nice to..."
Zikel flinched a bit as he saw the now sultry stare coming from Luna, he looks away from her and chuckles lightly.
"How long....did you know?"
"Oh I knew from earlier this morning mister grabby hands. You were enjoying yourself as you slept, that's for sure."
He sighed and facepalmed.
"Great, I fondle rears of royalty mares in my sleep now. I am sure Tia got the same treatment then?"
"Oh yes she did, we honestly thought you were just faking sleep to get naughty with us. But you wouldn't budge. Not that we were complaining though...you do have the most wonderful hands..."
"Yes....you made that perfectly clear when I turned you two into a pile of goo on the tables."
He said as he stuck his tongue out playfully at her, she did the same. They laid there for a little while longer, just enjoying each others warmth and company. They finally got up and got dressed, Luna looked over to him with a smirk.
"So...you won't ever be getting any trouble from Blueblood again Zikel. I made sure of that. In fact, no one will."
He laughed and got his pants and shirt on, walking over to his mage robe and sliding it on.
"What did you do lulu? Lock him up in the deepest darkest cell you have for about a few months?"
"No, I stripped him of his nobility and title, exiled him and gave you all of his assets and estates as compensation for the damage he inflicted on you."
She said that so..casually. Zikel nearly fell face first onto the floor, looking over at Luna
"You did WHAT?! Lulu, once Tia finds out about this, she is going to-"
He was cut off by a hoof to his lips.
"She already knows Zikel, she was crossed with me at first. But understood the severity of his crime after I told her everything when her mind was in its right state. She was happy I made the decision. Something that she could never do."
"As./...as long as Tia is fine with it. So...what am I looking at here?"
"Well, if I remember correctly, you now own his bank account, which currently holds twenty million bits, along with all the estates across the land he lived in. All in all, you are now one wealthy dragon, Zikel. And also, you will be given his title as well...Prince Zikel..I like that.."
"Nope! I will not be taking that title. Not no way, not no how! And I will not be living a flashy life. Its not for me Lulu..."
"But Zikel just think about it. A prince title and all the riches you could want. Doesn't that sound wonderful to you?"
"Lulu, you know I am not like that..nor do I want to be. Rogues and thieves may seem like they want a never ending flow of funds. but to be honest, we steal from others who have more than enough money to spare. Not people who struggle."
"But Zikel, with that title, you will be able to come and go as you please. The guards will not be able to stop you and they won't question your business."
He sighed and looked over at her. That did sound pretty cool, he could come visit with Tia and Lulu whenever he wanted,and not to mention feel like he was on more equal ground with them.
"Alright Lulu...I will accept the title, on one condition. Gather up all your guards and staff. Make them SWEAR this doesn't leave outside the castle. I do not want that kind of attention? Do you promise to do that? Please Lulu."
She understood full well of how he felt, she nodded to him with a smile, hugging him around his neck.
"I can do that Zikel. I will swear them all to keep it within the castle walls and among themselves. I just know though...me and Tia will be absolutely happy now, knowing you can come see us anytime."
"And I am happy about that as well. Also Lulu, the families that have cases against Blueblood of which he brought suffering upon. Give them back the funds that was taken from them. and give the rest to charities. I will take five million for myself. Give the other fifteen million back to the public. But no rich ponies. And as for telling them who did such a wonderful thing. Tell them it was the "Living Shadow" Since you and Tia are the only ones who know that name. As for the estates, get them sold and have the funds deposited into my account. How knows, I may have the need for the money. Call it a....potential war chest for safe keeping that no one knows about. Yeah, that will work."
Luna was stunned at what he had told her to do with three quarters of his new found wealth. Her heart was now beating with happiness and stronger affection for him. This dragon was so very sweet and generous, that he would want to bring back a little bit of happiness to all the ponies that Blueblood has wronged, and the rest for charities?!
"Zikel...you truly are an amazing dragon. Your kindness and compassion knows no bounds, yet you become a monster in order to do what needs to be done in order to defend those you care about. How do you maintain such an equal balance within your mind and heart?"
He chuckles lightly as he gets the last strap of his robe buckled and tightened, he walks over to Luna and lightly places a hand under her chin, locking eyes with her.
"Its really simple actually Lulu. I do what needs to be done that others don't have the strength to do. And yet I don't fault them for it either. That doesn't make them a coward. Some just can't maintain a balance of...peace and brutality. Something my father always talked about. I always thought it was just nonsense, but mow I see what he meant."
Luna couldn't help but smile widely as he talked about his father in such high regard. She nuzzled into his hand happily
"When I allowed your friends and family to come see you through a few dream gates. I saw your mother and father. They looked like quite the nice couple. And I can see where you got your handsomeness from. Your father looked quite good for his age. And your mother....by the moon, she was beautiful.."
"Thank you for saying so Lulu. I am just glad they are watching over me, and not hurting anymore."
He was suddenly brought to the realization of one thing. His stomach rumbled loudly, it was breakfast time. Luna giggled lightly and motioned him to follow her.
"Come on Prince Zikel, breakfast awaits. he stands there with his arms crossed and arches a brow
"Luluuuuu?"
"I am sorry Zikel...but it just sounds so...awe inspiring! Like a warrior prince who cares for his people so very much! It makes me want to just..."
She lets out the most adorable little squeal and giggle. Tia was right...she was worse. He shook his head and laughed lightly
"Tia was right about you Lulu. You are like a little girl who dreams about noble princes who put themselves second to everyone else, to fight any monster that plagues the land. Its actually pretty cute."
She blushes fiercely and shakes her head
"H-hush you..."
She said as she walked out the room, Zikel following. They made it down to the dinning hall, as Zikel walked in, he saw the table not only lined with food, but meat! Bacon and sausage! His mouth was watering, his long thick tongue running over his lips as he eyes it like a predator cornering his prey, his tail swaying behind him rapidly. little did he know, the princesses were starring at him and trying not to laugh.
"good thing I had out gryphon chef whip this up for you Zikel...so long as you don't eat ponies though..."
"Oh no, no pony flesh for me...but everything else..beef, pork, chicken...its my favorite." He looked over to see Tia and Lulu suddenly bursting out into laughter.
"Looks like we know the way to his heart then, don't we Lulu?"
"Indeed we do Tia. We must keep this information stored..."
Zikel wasted no time in piling his plate high with the meat and a few fruits, he tore through the food with gusto, some how not making a mess, but tearing up the meat like he hadn't eaten in days. The two sister's just looked at one another in shock, but started giggling with their hooves over their mouths. Zikel didn't care he was eating with royalty, all he cared about was getting his tummy full.
"So Tia..I talked with Zikel about the situations this morning."
"Ah,please tell what he said then dear sister."
After finding out how Zikel had wanted things arranged and done, Celestia's heart couldn't help but do the same thing that Luna's had done for him. She wanted to leap from her spot at the large table and pounce him and shower him with kisses. Such a kind and giving dragon. Celestia felt her love for the dragon grow ever more and more, but she held it in.
"Very well Zikel, your conditions will be met regarding the title. And we will begin distribution of the funds back to those who lost it against Blueblood. And we will also make sure that charities around the land receive a fair share as well."
"Thank you Tia, If I can give the abundance of fortune I received, then I will do so. It will equal out the balance I have so...terribly unbalanced in my life."
A guard comes into the dinning hall, approaching Celestia and lowering himself into a bow.
"Your majesty. princess Cadence is requesting that the Elements Of Harmony make their way to the Crystal Empire right away."
"Very well, I shall write a letter to princess Twilight at once. Thank you."
"Also, she is requesting the presence of someone named...Zikel."
Zikel heard his name and lifted his head up from eating. Swallowing his food and arched a brow.
"What could she possibly need me for?"
"Very well, thank you again.You are dismissed"
The guard bowed again and ran off, going to do his guard duty and all that.
"Uuuh...you ladies wanna fill me in?"
A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 13: A Returning Threat Part 1
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Act 14: A Returning Threat Part 2
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Act 15: Unwanted Attention
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A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 17: More Time With The Royal Sisters Part 1
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A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 18: More Time With The Royal Sisters Part 2
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Act 19: Love Of The Sun, Moon And Shadow
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Act 20: Signs Of Suffering Approach
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A Shadow Caught In The Sun
Act 21: The Shadowmancer That Follows His Own Path
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Act 5: A Friendlier Visit Than The Last
Zikel slipped from out of his shadow, just as the sun hit it. I was about the time that Luna had said it would be. He looks up to see the chariot arrive just in time. As the guards landed. They motioned him to hop on, but gave him a glare as he did. Zikel smiled broadly at them, knowing it two of the three he had given the slip.
"Ah, hello again boys. Sorry about yesterday. Didn't feel like being taken away in chains and all that. But I suppose I can come along willingly this time."
They snorted at him and took off towards the castle. He wondered why they wouldn't just let him fly there, he did have wings after all. But if the royal guard saw a dragon fly towards the castle, things would probably get out of hand most likely. The whole way there was silent, the guards didn't speak to him, and he didn't speak to them. They arrived at the main courtyard in front of the main doors. he jumped off the chariot and began walking towards the doors. as the guards opened them up, Luna was already there waiting for him with a smile. She waved a hoof to him and motioned for him to follow her.
"Ah good. You made it! Was beginning to wonder if you would really come. Follow me. Tia is waiting the the royal study."
"Tia huh? You know, that name actually makes her seem a bit more cute. And let me guess, you go by....Lulu?"
"I do. How did you know?"
"I had a dear friend back home who's name was Luna. I called her Lulu as well. That was back when I was a child though. Miss her dearly."
Luna couldn't help but smile at up at him as they walked
"Well, feel free to call me Lulu if you want to Zikel. After all, I am your friend now to."
Zikel nodded and returned the smile.
"Very well, Lulu"
"Don't let my sister know I told you this. But she was actually very impressed you slipped by her with such an amazing copy of yourself.. She was a little upset at first, but she laughed it off."
"Awww the princess of the sun didn't like that a shadow escaped her bright light? It can happen you know."
They both chuckled, soon coming upon the door that lead to the royal study, Luna opens the door and walks in, Zikel following behind her. To see Celestia reading a book, it looked like it was on...dragons? Who knows. She heard them walk in and looks up from her book, closing it then standing up from the pillow she was laying on. She wasted no time in approaching Zikel and poking his chest with a hoof.
"Sneaky sneaky thing, you."
Zikel was a bit surprised at how informal she was, but also really didn't mind it. This was royalty he could get along with. he grinned a big toothy grin and puffed his chest out a bit.
"Well princess...all you had to do was ask politely the first time and I would have came to see you. But, because your sister helped me get over feelings I was struggling with, and you asked nicely this time. I am here."
"And thank you for accepting my invitation my dear. Please won't you come and sit with me and Lulu?"
Zikel nodded and sat on the floor pillow across from them, he looked around at all the books on the shelving and on the table. She must have been quite the bookworm, much like her former student. Zikel looked between the two, who in turn looked at him.
"So...what is it you want to know about me then Princess Celestia? I believe I told you I am not from this realm, and I told you that I wasn't originally a dragon..."
Celestia hold up a hoof to stop him, then shakes her head "I want to know about you Zikel. And asking you questions makes it a bit easier because i can be informal with you. As you aren't one of my subjects. You are a new being to this world...for the most part."
Zikel rubbed his chin in thought for a moment, then nodded.
"I guess I should tell you that I am just a simple rogue and performer is all. I grew up without a family. But I had people I could call friends. I have been on my own since I was nine years of age."
Both of the princesses frowned at this. Even though Luna already knew, it still made her feel sad, just as much as her sister.
"You had to go through much hardship and loss didn't you Zikel? I cannot imagine what that must be like. But you are in a new world now. And I understand this is your second day here. But have you considered a fresh start? You have a clean slate here. And with time I am sure that everypony will accept you. Even though you are a dragon. Spike is another exception. He is a baby dragon, as princess Twilight is his mother in a way. She hatched him from an egg during her magical exam. Which is how she also got her cutie mark."
"Uuuh....cutie mark?"
Both the sisters lifted one of their wings to reveal the marks on their flank, the same markings as their chest plates.
"Ahaa, those...so I assume that everyone-..I mean evrypony has one of these?
"Indeed they do,except mostly the younger ones who haven't discovered their talents yet."
"So that's how it works huh? Wish life was that simple back from my world. I suppose you are wanting to know my special talent then?"
They nod to him again.
"Well, I guess you can say Shadowmancy is my special talent. Its been in my family for as long as I know. Passed down from my father's father and even beyond that. And I suppose being a rogue came with instinct as I got older. leaning to fend for myself, stealing food and such. Eventually that lead me to being able to have such agility and the ability to scale buildings and structures with ease. I even learned to take coin from rich people just by smiling at them. I never took from anyone else though. The rich people had more than enough gold to spare...even if they didn't want to share it."
The sister would chuckle lightly as they heard of his method of surviving. They agreed that the rich ponies here did have more than they should have.
"I never told this to the guard or anypony for that matter. But I can understand when we have thefts of food and a bit of coin coming from the city. Its just ponies trying to survive, because no pony will accept them for any jobs. It truly is a said thing. Also,I am curious about your abilities. You call it 'Shadowmancy', this is a form of magic I have never ever heard of in all my time. We have dark magic yes. But I sense..no malice from your magic. Can you explain that to me?"
"Ah, the sun princess wants to know how I escaped her light does she? I suppose I could let you in on it, since we are on good terms now."
She puffs her cheeks out at him and narrows her eyes.
"Y-you don't have to rub it in you know..."
She said in a soft voice as she looks away a bit. Her sister was having a bit of a giggling fit beside her, Celestia shot a glare at her little sister then looked back at him.
"Well, shadowmancy is something along the lines of illusion magic along with a few defensive spells. The spell I used in front of you when you cornered me was an illusion spell. Its something I use as a last resort should I need to make a quick exit. I can only create in within a town at the most. But it allows me to shadow crawl away from my enemies. Which is a form of quick transport. I sink into the ground and use the darkness to get away at great speeds. And the one you grabbed and teleported away with was a shadow puppet. I can create up to six at once now. but my maximum goal is ten."
Celestia and Luna continued to listen to him talk about his abilities and who he was. Their curiosity growing ever more and wanting to know who this dragon was. Celestia seemed especially curious. As she was getting more excited about him. Was...her heart beating in her chest? From what?! This was just a conversation between friends right?!
Zikel and Luna looked at Celestia with her wide eyed expression, Zikel leaned forward a bit and waved his hand in front of her face.
"Uuum..princess? You alright? Did I explain a little too much at once?"
She shook herself out of her daze and chuckled a bit nervously
"Oh no...I am fine my dear...I zoned out a bit is all."
"A bit?"
He teased her with an arched brow. She huffs at him and suddenly stand up, walking towards the door, but turned and smiled to him.
"I have day court to attend to now. Zikel.Please let us converse again in the near future."
"I would would like that, Tia. You are rather fun to poke at. But your company is also quite...enjoyable."
She blinks at what he had called her
"Did you just...call me Tia?"
"I sure did, that's what friends do huh?"
She smiled even wider and nodded to him
"Yes...and thank you. Other than my sister...I felt like I could be myself around you. sometimes a princess needs to let down her collective mane so to special. Thank you again, Zikel."
With that she left the room and closed the door. Zikel could have sworn he heard her giggle like a schoolgirl as she walked away. Luna blinked a bit as she heard it as well
"Well well, look at you. Making an impression on my big sister. You really are full of surprises aren't you mister rogue?"
Zikel chuckled lightly and rubbed the back of his head a bit. Making friend with the two rulers of this land...for some reason, he felt like this maaaay lead to a bit of trouble down the road...
