All is for my Princess

Chapters

Episode 1: The Return of the Nightmare - Part Two
Episode 1: The Return of the Nightmare - Part Three
Preview: Episode 2
Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part One
Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Two
Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Three
Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Four
Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Five
Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Six
Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part One
Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Two
Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Three
Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Four
Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Five
Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Six
Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Seven
Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Eight
Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Nine
Preview: Episode 4
Episode 1: The Return of the Nightmare - Part One
Preview: Episode 3

Episode 1: The Return of the Nightmare - Part Two

I could feel myself getting conscious again, as my dulled senses seemed to slowly restore. From the talking in the background and the fact that I was still lying on the floor I concluded that only a few minutes must have passed, max. A good thing considering they wouldn’t have found out about this new form yet as they seemed to animatedly chatter about some kind of jewelry and how the rainbow annoyances snout seems to have reformed itself.

Well, it only means I can break it again once I got into a better position.

Anyway, it seemed like an eternity before I could groggily open my eyes, my head pounding with a rather vicious headache while the rest of my body still seemed to burn. A feeling of helplessness made itself known as I could barely move any of my muscles. With force I tried to open my eyes, blinking slowly. The voices that reached my ears were still slightly muffled. My eyes needed a moment to adjust themselves, but as they did I was greeted with a pair of soft cyan eyes.

Out of reflex I tried to get into an offensive stance, but winced slightly as my sore muscles reminded me of my rather poor condition.

I heard a soft shooing noise as suddenly a pair of soft hands engulfed me, as this being pressed me softly into her warm chest…

Something was terribly wrong. This pony, I recognized her from the group. She was smaller than me, but now seemed so huge for some mysterious reason…

I shook my head. This wasn’t important right now! I need to see if Princess Nightmare Moon is alright! I could never forgive me if something happened to her. Not again!

So I immediately struggled against the buttery-yellow confines that were trying to keep me confined.

The hold seemed to be stronger than I thought, but I eventually fought the yellow menace of and landed with a soft thud on my four…paws?

Rather shocked I looked down and around, inspecting every part of my body. I was completely engulfed in a silver coat. Instead of hands and feet, I now had paws, a completely unexpected turn of events. A snout replaced my usual graceful features. A sudden realization dawned on me.

I was a wolf puppy.

It is said that the Elements function in the most mysterious ways… even though I never would have guessed that they would regress me into such a helpless state. Personally I think it would be more accurate to say that they love to play a cruel joke on the ones who are on the receiving end of this orbital rainbow cannon. For example, Princess Nightmare Moon was banished in the very celestial body she embodies. The prankster and chaos entity Discord was cursed to a boring and dull life as a lawn ornament and I, the powerful lycanthrope…was turned into a harmless wolf puppy. It is kind of reminiscent of poison joke, really. It also makes me question how anyone could perceive this magical prank weapon as harmonious.

Before I could contemplate any further a soft voice reached my ears.

“Shhhh. You don’t have to be afraid, boy.”

Boy? Insolent ponies! But maybe I could take this to my advantage, as to have the element of surprise on my side.

So I slowly turned around to the six damnable ponies, trying to act as natural as possible. It might have been demeaning, but it was necessary. I had to gauge the situation and find out in what state the Princess was.

“Aww, he is sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo cute!” said the voice of the crazy pony as she suddenly appeared in front of me, making annoying baby noises all the while. And yes, she did really stretch that word out like that. But maybe that made her easier to fool too, so I didn’t mind…for the moment.

“Never mind that!” came the brash voice of the rainbow-maned anthro pony.

I still couldn’t comprehend how that could be a legitimate mane color, since it was even more ridiculous than the traditional ones, but this was not of my concern now. I had a few ponies to fool.

“There is that ugly monkey-thing Nightmare was dragging around?”

Twilight answered her not-all-too-bright compatriot.

“We don’t really know what he is, Rainbow. He wasn’t too keen on giving us ANY information after all. Not to mention that Celestia only always taught me that he was a demon, but never got into depth in which category he belonged. But I think I can help with your question to his whereabouts. Remember that we all saw that he was engulfed in the Element’s magic just like Nightmare Moon?”

The others nodded.

“After the Elements were done exactly two beings came out of the process, and since the little filly there has to be Nightmare Moon…”

And that I took as my cue. I quickly jumped on the yellow mares shoulder, this being possible as she was kneeling down and patting me, making her eep, as I used her as a launching pad to catapult me straight at the lead mare.

I whisked directly overhead her, as I snapped her crown in my jaws and landed on the ground, before making my escape to where I could see the frail form of the Princess lying. She was just starting to get up.

I dropped the crown in front of her, before bringing myself between her and the mares, preparing my speech, which only purpose was to gain me some time to formulate an escape plan.

For some incomprehensible reason no one ever thinks about stopping a villain that is monologuing, but I might use this oddity to my advantage as well.

Those easy to fool ponies!

“I applaud you to your conclu-“

I stopped for a moment as I noticed something…drastic. My voice sounded younger and… more squeakish… Like some wolf puppy on helium. Or that old-hag-turned-cat from Emperor’s New Groove.

How utterly degrading.

“Aww! That is even cuter! Does the wittle doggy want a tweat?” asked the annoying pink pony as she suddenly stood in front of me, holding a cupcake in her hand.

She was rather fast and took me by surprise. A sign that my senses seem to be still dulled, if I couldn’t even see a simple pony getting close to me in such a short time.

I snarled, holding my ground.

“Hold your tongue, or you are going to lose it!”

“Oh yeah! Come on here! I’m not afraid of you!” said the rainbow pony as she suddenly flew straight into my face, narrowing her eyes dangerously. Seems like this one was still angry over her broken snout.

But the moment was broken up by the cheerful voice of that bright pink mare.

“Silly! You don’t have to be so aggressive if you want some tongues!”

We both stared at her with cocked eyebrow before she reached into a mane to pull out…Cat’s Tongues. Huh. Didn’t realize they had this sweet here.

I could hear the rainbow annoyance groan, as she started to scold her friend who only shrugged as if not understanding why she was not satisfied with her truly ridiculous actions.

Well, the confusion she placed might be of use. With that I turned around to the little filly that was once the most feared being on Equus. It definitely hurt to see the Princess in such a weak and degrading state.

As I neared her, she looked at me with big questioning eyes, clearly having problems to grab the situation. As I came within reach I urgently whispered to her.

“Princess! You have to take the Element and get out of here quickly, while you still can! I will hold these ponies off!”

She looked at me before a look of recognition lit up in her eyes, telling me she just now recognized me in my rather…miniscule form. She furrowed her brow for a moment, before frowning, and then an unsure look entered her eyes, as she looked at the ponies that were currently standing behind me.

“Don’t let your mind be consumed by worries Princess. I doubt some puny little ponies will do me in. You have to put trust in me being able to find you after this is over.”

Her eyes started to glisten at my words.

“But-“

“Go,” I said before I turned around to charge at the ponies.

This will buy her some time to get away. Of course it would have been better if the Timberwolves hadn’t run off during the rainbow light show, but if push comes to shove, I can still take a few measly pony civilians. It is quite the fortune that the witch didn’t show u-

*CRACK*

And suddenly my world was pain.

Episode 1: The Return of the Nightmare - Part Three

Faster than I could comprehend a white form suddenly stood next to me, her hoof deeply buried into my barrel and catapulting me towards a stone pillar. The pillar broke on contact with me, as did my bones. A testament to the weakness that I have to overcome before I could fully work for the Princess again. If I manage to survive the Sun Witch at least.

As the dust settled I could see the shocked faces of all who were present in the room. I tried to move, but was only able to cough up blood. The coppery taste laying heavy on my tongue. I never thought that I would fail so miserably. Not only the one-hit-K.O. that I just had to endure at the hooves of the Sun Witch, also the fact that I couldn’t protect the Princess. She was frozen in fear and unable to move.

And just like that a pair of rather pudgy white legs concealed my view, as a shadow loomed threatingly over me.

I looked into the magenta burning eyes of the Sun Witch. Her eyes glaring down at me with an intense heat, as if she wanted to incinerate me on the spot. I defied her tactic to intimidate me and glared back at her a thousand fold.

“So we see again, Mutt,” was her rather uncivilized retort. Not that I expected any less.

I simply chuckled, putting her definitely more on edge, judging from the cracking floor beneath her hooves.

“Say, what is so funny?” she asked with hatred in her voice.

I gave her a satisfied smile.

“It seems like even after a thousand years your manners are just as bad as your restraint for cake.”

Much to my satisfaction her face instantly turned a deep shade of red. If from deep embarrassment or anger was anybody’s guess. I would say it was a mix of the two.

“SILENCE CREATURE!” Celestia roared as she kicked me once again, her hoof making contact with my ribcage painfully which gave way to more cracks.

I slid over the floor for a bit, before coming to a halt. She definitely kept her temper.

I coughed up a bit of blood and my eyes closed from the pain. I could already feel another shadow looming over me and prepared for the worst.

However, to my utter surprise I could feel a pair of hands wrap itself gently around my form. So gently in fact, that I knew that klutz Celestia couldn’t be it, seeing as she was never one to refine her own skills. As I slowly opened my eyes I could see the yellow pegasus. For some incomprehensible reason these cyan orbs of hers were filled with worry. Oh wait, she is an animal caretaker. I remember. So she sees me as some poor defenseless animal? That is actually quite amusing. I might even laugh if a rib wasn’t puncturing my lung.

The worried look on her face promptly changed, only to be replaced by a burning fury as she gently set me back down, making sure not to cause me any pain.

“WHAT. THE. HAY!” she screamed loudly as she turned around to face the Sun Witch, who was only staring at my prone form coldly, murder intent clear in her eyes. However that outburst seemed to take her and all the others in the room in surprise.

She suddenly stormed off and got into the face of the Sun Witch, surprising me.

To accentuate it: This wimp with absolutely no backbone was just glaring down one of the most powerful beings in Equestria in a staring contest. A staring contest she seemed to win, I might add, as our little pseudo-princess had problems to take the full heat of her angry glaring eyes and LOOKED AWAY uncomfortably.

“How could you?!” the mare simply trudged on as she hovered in her face, giving her the same height as Celestia. “How could you treat a poor and defenseless animal like that?!”

The combination of the words poor and defenseless in correlation with me seemed to have left a sour taste in the Sun Witches mouth, seeing as she gathered the rest of her lackluster backbone and courage to face the buttery mare.

“He is evil!” was the Witches oh so eloquent response. But Butterbone would have none of it.

“I know that he is! But he has already received his punishment and everyone deserves a second chance!”

Oh ho? Interesting point. Of course I wouldn’t agree with her, seeing that I don’t think there is anything wrong with usurping the false princess to place the true ruler upon Equestria’s throne.

“Not. Him!” meanwhile the Witch of course tried to force her will on others like always, while stomping her hoof, cracking the floor in the vain hope of intimidating the one being who was standing between us and with that keeping me alive.

Much to the Witches dismay it didn’t work, making her growl. Even I could tell that her missing restraint was slowly cracking and that she would blow a gasket any second now.

At least she would have, wasn’t it for a new participant in the conversation.

“NO! Don’t hurt him!” everyone turned around to look at a nervous little filly, tears welling in her eyes, “Here!” she said holding the crown I stole out with her hand, “I will even give the crown back! But please don’t do anything to him! He is the only friend that I have left!”

“Princess,” I croaked out between violent coughs.

This made my loyalty and deep bond of respect for her only flare anew. It was exactly why I was serving her. But it seemed that I was doing a rather lousy job at that, as I was now more of a liability than anything. I wanted to help her, but I could already feel my fading consciousness. It seemed like my HP dropped to zero, and with that I was embraced in the comforting embrace of darkness as everything blacked out again.

~END~

Author's Note

Maybe I will change the title and call this the Prologue. Might be a possibility, but I can figure that out another time. Next chapter will only be a few words, since I decided to add a little preview in separate chapters for reasons of clarity. :pinkiesmile:

Preview: Episode 2

Next Episode Preview

Narrator: The once proud Lycanthrope FenFen has unleashed his inner adorableness as he transformed into the most adorable little squeaky meeky puppy in all history of puppieness!

[Insert FenFen puppy picture that is surrounded by d’awwing ponies here]

Narrator: “How could anything so cute be evil?” asked Fluttershy with a dreamy smile as all the Ponyvillians agreed! Cheers and swears of fealty shared alike towards the silver puppy as they all kneeled before their new Emperor of Fluffieness. Suffice to say that everypony was mesmerized by the adorable FenFen!

Narrator: But beware! It was all part of his evil plan to gain forces and take over Equestria! And he is already planning to recruit further top members to the secret organization he founded called W.O.O.N.A.! Which is short for ‘World Organisation Of Nightmarish Adorableness’ by the way!

Narrator: Even the adorable little filly Luna joined his ranks! The future is really looking bleak as he strives for world domination!

Narrator: But have no fear, because suddenly and completely unexpected a new hero appears! Just out of the shadow Prinny Pie appears! Her soft demonic pink fur shimmered in the moonlight as she stood on a building challenging the adorable puppy FenFen. With that a fierce adorableness competition about the worlds fate starts between her and the members of W.O.O.N.A!

[Insert Prinny Pie picture facing off against adorable puppy FenFen here]

Narrator: Pose after fierce adorable pose was played. From the curling of FenFen around Luna protectively to the adorable quivering beak lip and puppy dog eyes of Prinny Pie!

Narrator: Next time on Adorable Puppy FenFen, Episode 2: Ponyville Puppy Cuddling!

Narrator: Will FenFen survive the cuddling and d'awwing mares of his troops, not to mention the adorableness attacks of his new arc-nemesis? Or will his plan go down the adorableness induced sugar drain. You will only find out by tracking and reading the next chapter~

Twilight: Uh, Pinkie? What are you doing?

Pinkie Pie: Just narrating for our readers, so that they keep tracking this story! Hoppa also said this would give the story more of a Disgaea feel!

Twilight: …

Author's Note

Of course there won't be an Episode like this. Just for everyone who isn't familiar with the normal silly Episode Previews of Disgaea. It's more a way of spouting nonsense for the sake of nonsense. Kind of one of the things I always loved about Disgaea! :rainbowkiss: :yay:

Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part One

~Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare~

Warmth. This was the first feeling that greeted me as I stirred. Not to mention a rather comfortable softness, indicator that I was resting in a bed and was not thrown in a dungeon or worse, being executed as expected.

I snorted softly. This was a viable option after ‘she’ had appeared.

My eyes suddenly snapped open as memories slowly aligned themselves. A slight panic gripped my heart as I jerked upwards.

‘The Princess!’

A wince was my reward as a stinging pain greeted me from my barrel.

‘Right. The accursed Sun Witch attacked me,’ I thought as I ceased my movements in favor of taking in my surroundings, forcing myself to stay calm. Nothing all too hard considering I was the epitome of calm.

‘A rather cozy looking room, with a bedside table, a vanity mirror, a wardrobe…’ I thought before I finally spotted the princess.

She was sitting on a chair, while the upper half of her body was leaned over the bed, just like in a cheesy doctor show while a slight line of drool was running out of her mouth.

Ignoring this cliché and the undignified line of drool that was in no way proper behavior for a Princess of her status I could feel a huge weight lifting off my shoulders as a content sigh escaped my lips.

‘She is well,’ I thought. I didn’t know what exactly happened after I blacked out, but neither me nor the Princess were in chains, so that is definitely an advantage. It meant if things got too risky we could flee.

Well, as soon as I’m fully healed.

I quickly opened the menu and went into my stored items. It was easy enough to find a bottle of ‘Frog Sweat’ and chug it down.

My wounds healed with a flash, making me smile slightly. I quickly stood up, letting the bedcovers fall from my wolf body. This was then I noticed bandages wrapped around my midsection.

‘Fluttershy. The animal caretaker,’ I quickly concluded, as the whole situation seemed to make a lot more sense now. If the timid pegasus was able to chew Celestia out, she might as well together with the Princess have saved my life from her.

Just as I was about to make my way out of the bed, the Princess stirred.

A yawn escaped her as she tiredly rubbed her eyes. She quickly spotted me however and just as I bowed before her now smaller self she wrapped her arms around me, before drawing me into a tight hug.

“Thou art alright!” she cheered happily as she pressed my small form against her chest, making me feel a tad embarrassed.

“P-Princess! A mare of your stand shouldn’t hug their underlings!“

Of course the Princess ignored my advice about etiquette, like she always does and rolled her eyes.

“Just give us this moment, Fenrich. We were most distressed about thine state.”

I sighed before going limp in her hug, capitulating to her wishes.

“All is for my Princess…”

The impromptu hugging session thankfully soon enough ended and I was released so that I finally could get out of the bed and attend my duties.

“You must forgive me Princess if I’m not briefed-“ I started to say before I finally registered the change in my voice, which made me smile confidently. “That changed back faster than expected,” I replied casually in my usual baritone.

The Princess however seemed to…pout?

“We preferred thine squeaky tone. It was quite amusing,” she explained with a small teasing grin.

An annoyed groan past my lips.

“I actually hoped that you would mature, but I see that this is a lost cause. Even more reason for me to stand at your side.”

The Princesses pout seemed to intensify at my slight jab, and I couldn’t help the smile that slightly tugged at my lips.

I missed her.

But not everything was sunshine and rainbows right now. This expression by the way is one of the worst ponies have come up with over the centuries. I mean, sunshine and rainbows? It was a clear message from Celestia: Praise my sunshine or be punished with rainbows! Rainbows hereby the Elements of Harmony. It was quite alarming how she would weave her influence even through the language. Don’t even get me started on how ponies use her name like she was a goddess.

But now I’m rambling, or procrastinating to be more precise. Even a being such as me wasn’t immune to guilt. And this guilt was tearing away at me since the fateful events of yesterday. It was simply something that I had to get off my chest.

As I was on the ground on my four new paws, standing before her I bowed, my head lowering to the ground in shame to a very surprised Princess of the Night.

“Forgive me, Princess. I have failed you yet again.”

Luna adapted a sad smile as she looked down at my diminutive form.

“No, my most loyal comrade. Thou didst not fail us. If anything, we hath failed thou. And we art sorry for that.”

“But Princess-!”

“No buts, Fenrich. Thou didst whatever thou couldst to keep us safe in our weakened form. And we greatly appreciate thine efforts. But things now have changed.”

I looked up, surprised at her words.

“Changed, Princess?” I mused before understanding dawned on my face as I stood up once again. “You used the opening of the argument to finally rid yourself of the Sun Witch? What a formidable technique! Just as to expect of the Ruler of the Night, the Terror of Shadows, the Silent Blade of-!” I said, before being interrupted by a cough. I quickly ceased my statements and bowed my head humbly in apology to let her speak.

“Well, tis not quite like that.”

“Oh? So something even more cruel and nefarious? Like throwing Celestia’s bound form in a barrel of acid? Or even better, a barrel of carnivorous parasprites? Or did you give her maybe a one-way ticket to the sun? In my opinion this would be the most fitting of-“

“Fenrich,” Luna interrupted in a serious voice, making it clear that she wanted to explain the matter head on. Just like expected of her!

I bowed my head at her yet again.

“Forgive me, I’m all ears Princess.”

Luna gave a nod of approval before she wanted to start, but stopped to bite her lower lip. In the end she sighed, making it seem that she had troubles to believe how she defeated the false sun goddess.

She is always so modest!

“Well, while thou were unconscious we have…conciliated with our sister.”

I nodded approvingly.

“A great and truly abhorrent plan! While I was unconscious you have conci-“

And the gears in my head began turning.

“CONCILIATED?!” I exclaimed in equal parts of shock and horror. “But Princess, surely you jest?!”

She shook her head, while she held it low, sadness gracing her features.

“We were afraid of this talk with thou, Fenrich. Since we know thine feelings for her.”

I shook my head.

“This shouldn’t be about my feelings Princess. It should be about yours. She has sent you to the moon for a thousand years after all. Surely, you haven’t forgiven her for that transgression?”

“We…deserved it. Eternal night wasn’t the right course of action and our sister had to stop us. She even forgave us for turning on her!” she said the last part in a desperate plead which made my stomach turn.

‘She is being suppressed by this foul wrench again,’ I mentally noted, ‘This might actually jeopardize my plans a bit. Or at least delay them.’

A sigh escaped my lips as I accepted her words, no matter how foul they seemed.

“…So what is your new course of action Princess?”

“We art still thinking about it. This new world is strange and I hath a lot to learn to fit into it.”

I nodded. It was understandable that she needed to first gain knowledge of the past 1000 years to be the perfect ruler she deserved to be. Her foresight was truly splendid!

Another bow followed.

“I’m glad to hear this. I have already prepared an essay of the most important changes over the last 1000 years for your convenience.”

The Princess looked surprised before she smiled and nodded.

“Very good, Fenrich. We hath almost forgot how favorable it is to hath thou as our right hand in our endeavors.”

“But of course. I’m also confident that our changes will soon revert back as demonstrated by my normal voice once again. Not that I doubt you would be able to conquer and strike fear in all the hearts of ponies and other creatures in the world without it.”

At my words she shyly looked away, making me raise an eyebrow.

“Well, thou see…”

But just before she could respond the wooden door suddenly burst open revealing the pink weird mare, dressed up in what could be defined the outfit of a jester, while the rainbow plague trailed right behind her looking annoyed.

The pink thing instantly pulled out a canon from a pocket dimension which was well strategically placed in her hair and with that showing interestingly enough a demonic trait off. A trait which I noted at the back of my mind for later confrontations with her.

She then aimed the canon at the Princess, and I immediately stepped in front of her. But what flew out of the cannon wasn’t a projectile, but a lot of confetti and seemingly other party gadgets if the party hat that now was now seated between my ears was anything to go by.

Additionally a large banner suddenly hung above the just opened door. It read ‘Get well soon FenFen!’

It is suffice to say that one of my eyes had the slightest twitch at this madness that just was unfolded before me.

The pink anthro mare meanwhile seemed ecstatic as she bounced around the room and SUNG some foalish song while juggling cupcakes.

The weak rainbow mare seemed to be the only one of the two who behaved normally since she simply gave me the stink eye.

‘Seems like I have to deal with a circus clown and a ridiculous rainbow mop first.’

Author's Note

So. Things might slowly slow down now a bit. I can't promise another chapter tomorrow, seeing as I know have used almost everything of what I have already written. But the next chapter shouldn't be all that hard to write too, so I'm confident it won't take too long either.

Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Two

I glared at the offending mares who dared to actually enter the room without her majesties permission.

Jester hereby held some cat tongues out for me showing me just how far she has gone off the deep end. Definitely not a mare that can be helped anymore.

And of course the rainbow mop simply continued her glaring.

Before I could physically admonish both of them the Princess stepped in. And she looked a tad relieved for some reason.

“Stay thy paw Fenrich. These mares art our enemies no more.”

Of course it made sense, considering how she submitted to the Sun Witch. Not to mention the strange banner, as if the pink one was worried about my health.

…She also still held the cats tongues in front of my face, or muzzle as the case may be. I also just noticed her rather broad and expectant grin, making me huff in annoyance.

And for some reason that made the Princess sigh as she shook her head.

“Fenrich, we would like thou to become more friendly with these ponies, so thou should accept their pleasantries.”

I thought about it, and then after a short time saw the brilliance behind it.

They are the Element Bearers, meaning getting close with them is a crucial point in crippling the Sun Witches defenses. The Princess really has an astounding eye for details! Just like to be expected!

With that I bowed slightly to the pink pony before taking the chocolate with my mouth and sitting down, while simply eating it.

‘Hm… Not bad.’

“Soooooooooooooo cute!” the mare squealed in delight before bouncing back to her rainbow friend whose demeanor was still unchanged.

Not that this would hinder my plans. I can simply take her down since it was obvious that she won’t be fooled that easily.

The Princess nodded in approval.

“Very good. Now like moderns ponies like to say that the ice hath been broken the procedure can move on!”

I looked up at her.

“The procedure, your highness?”

“Exactly my loyal right hand. Or should it be paw now?” she asked with a grin.

“No matter how eloquent your jokes are, let’s just assume that I was in my natural form,” I said before rolling my paw, “But more importantly, what is it you have planned?”

Before the Princess could answer the pink one stood before me.

“Aww! He doesn’t sound cute anymore!”

Rainbow actually looked disappointed by that.

“Damn. And here I hoped I could poke some fun at him.”

It honestly didn’t surprise me this seemed to be her reason to be here. But then again, especially the weak like to use every chance they get to make themselves feel more important or stronger towards another. Reason enough I didn’t answer her.

“The schedule, Princess?” I simply asked, giving her a half-lidded stare.

“First would be breakfast downstairs. The young mare who saved thou is already working on it. I will tell you the rest after we have sufficiently dined.”

I nodded and so we both marched past the other two mares and out the room.

As we went down the stairs and into the living room the smell of eggs waned from an adjacent room. A soft humming was accompanied by this.

The Princess all too eagerly stormed into what I identified as the dining area with a kitchen in the same room placed.

Butterbone seemed to be working on the stove as we entered the room.

“I see the preparation for the Princesses meal are going well,” I offhandedly commented, startling the shy mare.

After a short time of getting back to her senses she turned around to look at us. A smile graced her lips. A smile which was replaced by a worried frown. She quickly put out the stove before leaning down to me.

“A-Are you alright? Your ribs must be still hurting!”

I simply waved her concern off with my paw.

“I had a potion, so you don’t need to worry about me.”

Much to my shock however, she shook her head vigorously as she had both of her hands placed on her hips, showing off that strange determination she beat Celestia with.

“I need to take a closer look! Broken ribs are no laughing matter and you should take them seriously!”

My protests quickly died in my throat as the Princess nodded.

‘I guess I could humor the mare. Especially after she was facing off against the Sun Witch like that. She might actually be a valuable asset to our forces. Other than the weak rainbow horse.’

I bowed my head towards her. It was a bit demeaning of course, since she was not the Princess, but I do whatever the Princess tells me to. I have sworn fealty to her and were meaning it after all.

Butterbone quickly served the Princess her meal of scrambled eggs with toasted bread and milk. Not the most royal of meals, but the Princess was happy, so that was enough for me.

After that I followed the butter mare back to her living room, where she patted her green couch.

I quickly jumped up on it where she then continued to take off my bandages and examine the damage that had been done.

I had to lay on my back for the examination, which was of course demeaning.

In my opinion I have to deal with a bit too much demeaning acts since the past day, but only can hope to change that quickly once I satisfied that curious mare.

She seemed of course rather surprised after she noticed that the damage was undone. But then again, Item World products are a rare sight to behold since not many actually have the guts to fight through it. I for one know that the Solar Guard is a bunch of foals compared to the glorious elite of the Princesses Night Guard. This applied 1000 years ago just as much as it does now.

After finally being free once again I ignored the pink mare that was cooing and d’awwing as she much to my chagrin saw me as I was laying on my back like a common mutt.

After that the breakfast commenced for all of us. Seemingly none of these ponies had eaten anything before coming here.

Of course one prismatic mare still glared at me, but I ignored her like I did before. Weaklings don’t deserve the time of a day.

Since the Princess and I were already finished I took the chance to inform myself about the other plans of the day. Something that did seem to improve her mood further.

“We art invited to a great feast!” she declared joyfully, making me arc an eyebrow. The pink one elaborated further.

“Yepperoni! We wanted to throw a party for both you and little Lulu yesterday but since FenFen here wasn’t in the best of conditions we decided to postpone it for him!”

“Did you lass just call the great Princess Nightmare Moon by a condescending nickname?” I asked in a low dangerous voice.

The Princess quickly stood up drawing my attention.

“Fenrich, we art not going by that name anymore,” she started to explain, “Instead we wish to be called Luna once more. Not to mention that we doth not mind to be called that way by the pink one. It wouldn’t hurt to learn about the new customs of our land by…befriending ponies.”

She seemed a bit unsure about herself. And this wasn’t the first time I noticed it since I awokened. Something must have happened to make her so. And I didn’t like to see the confident Princess fall back into such patterns. Of course for now I could only relent.

“…As you wish.”

I heard a snicker coming from the weakling.

“Yeah. I say it’s also about time we go, FenFen.”

The way she drawled out this words made me scoff mentally. It wasn’t the first time I was called that way. I still remember it. The ponies from my past. If anything this mares here are not worthy to actually use that name. But they are of course also not worthy to actually get a rise out of me. I need my full concentration to assess the current situation. And especially to find out what was wrong with the Princess.

The other ponies meanwhile had finished and Fluttershy meekly agreed that they could go, at least if we both were feeling up to it.

The Princess at least seemed rather eager to get a change in topic. Anything to somehow avert her attention from…me.

We quickly went into the living room. I of course was walking on front.

“Allow me,” I offered with a bow and then walked over to the door to open it. I still had a duty to fulfil after all.

I stood on both of my hindpaws and stretched upwards to…

…flail in a vain attempt to reach that accursed door knob!

Too late I recognized that I was a tad too small in this accursed form to fulfill this simple task which I should have seen coming since I was only taller as a kitten by an inch or two. But I couldn’t back out now. I offered my services and the Princess was watching! How could I call myself with a good conscience her right hand if I failed such a menial task?

I glared defiantly at the door knob that was threatening my position before crouching down and tensing my muscles, ready to pounce my prey.

I let go and catapulted myself upwards successfully griping the knob in my paws to…

…turn it without thumps. Of course things had to get complicated, but that wouldn’t stop me. I was Fenrich! And I would not get humiliated any further!

So with that I set my hindpaws on the door while trying to wrench that rather resistant knob in order to finally open this door. The small claws at my hindlegs proved hereby rather useful as I could get a good grip without sliding down the door.

Unfortunately I still lost my grip with my claws making me hang limply from the knob with only my two paws on the knob supporting me.

I looked back at the assembled ponies, especially the rainbow-maned one was puffing out her cheeks. I simply glared fiercely at her from my hanging position, daring her to say anything.

Unfortunately for me, she didn’t find my death glare as threatening in this new form.

“BWAHAHAHAHA!”

Much to my shame the others soon joined in on this demeaning behavior.

“He’s so cute!” Butterbone squealed in delight as she swooned over my attempts to open the door.

The pink asylum escapee was not any better as she was caught in between d’awwing at the scene before her and laughing.

To make matters worse the Princess shot me an amused smirk.

“Thou know that thou could ask for our aid in this matter, right?”

I could feel a slight blush crawl through my fur out of shame and embarrassment.

‘No. I would not disappoint the Princess again!’

With that I hopped back down. The others eyed me with either amusement or comforting looks. The rainbow-maned idiot simply guffawed further in mirth.

I couldn’t help but feel amusement of my own as I readied my stance. There are more than one ways to open a door after all. And since I promised the Princess an open door she would receive one.

I felt my muscles concentrate for that one moment, before I let go again. My body rotated as I kicked out with one of my paws.

The door didn’t stand a chance.

It instantly was blasted of its weak hinges and flew straight out of the frame heavily cracked.

The others, meaning all excluding the Princess, looked at my work in slack jawed awe as only a few splinters that fell to the ground reminded them about the once intact wooden door, and I couldn’t help the smug grin that followed. It seemed that even in this miniscule form my base stats alone were enough for some flimsy wood. Like expected.

“The door is now open,” I simply stated with another bow.

The prismatic one was the first to say something.

“Seriously dude. That was a real dick move. Not to mention dangerous!”

“Hmphf! You act like a pony was standing behind this door,” I said while pointing to the door that was laying quite some way from the cottage.

…A door that was moving.

“Ugh…” and of course groaning.

I turned back to the now slightly panicky looking mares. Well, Butterbone looked panicky, the jester just smiled and hummed to herself, the Princess looked slightly unamused and the rainbow weakling seemed a tad miffed.

“See? Nothing to worry about,” I replied with a casual deadpan as I took the lead of the escort, “Now let’s head out to this feast.”

Author's Note

Dialogue is quite the challenge. I know what I expect of the Episode, but it doesn't make it easier. :ajsleepy:

Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Three

Author's Note

About two or three more parts will follow for this Episode, depending on how I actually divide the parts that follow.

Critique is like always welcome. :pinkiesmile:

Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Three

Unfortunately ponies had always a different opinion than me about which things they should worry about. So it came as no surprise that the three ponies instantly run past me and towards the groaning door. Well, Rainbow gave me a short glare before she flew up to the door, but that came as no surprise.

I personally couldn’t care less which background pony was foolish enough to actually seek out the temporary residence of the Princess of the Night. Honestly, useless ponies should keep their distance. Not that keeping distance was going to be easy with this ‘party’ that the pink demon had planned.

Luna was meanwhile standing beside me, eyeing the door as pink and rainbow ponies clamped their hands around the edges. Judging by the trouble and painful groaning I heard the pony beneath the door seemed to be stuck.

A sigh beside me drew my attention to one of the few ponies I appreciated. Well, if you could call such a being as the Princess a measly pony. Personally I think that sounds like an insult for her considering how common that word is.

“We would like thee to refrain from unnecessary vandalism. We are guests in this humble abode after all and it would not fare well to insult our host. Besides that, thou could hath injured somepony with thine attack,” she finally spoke, before looking back to the door and wincing, “Or more like thou already hath.”

I bowed my head at the wisdom the Princess shared with me.

“Of course. As to expect, your logic is without a single flaw, even after a thousand years. I will refrain from damaging any doors in the future.”

“Good,” she said as she appreciated my response with a nod.

“How is it that you listen to her?!” a brash voice suddenly sounded slightly from above me, but since I heard her coming from a mile away with her rather noticeable and loud movements it didn’t come as a surprise.

She would be an easy stealth kill for anyone who could do their job partly good. Probably the weakest of the thestral recruits could get the job done. And let me tell you that he was really a hopeless case. Nowadays I only use him as a punching bag to train the other recruits.

I shrugged indifferently at the hovering mare.

“I trust her judgement. Besides, she was making good points.”

“Why you little-“

“Rainbow!” Butterbone whisper-shouted as she came up to us, “Pinkie needs your help to get her to the hospital!”

She shot me another venomous look before turning to her useful friend. A quick nod was exchanged before she hovered to the door and heaved it up. I could hear a yelp as Rainbow heaved the door over her head. Interestingly enough this caused whoever was stuck to be turned upside down as a plain violet skirt fell over her thighs and down her torso, leaving the mare in a rather compromising position for all the world to see.

Upon the lifting skirt I also noticed the cutie mark of the mare. Not that I was a peeking pervert mind you, I simply made an observation. And let’s say that the colors of striped panties is nothing I concern myself with.

My observation in either case when it came to said mares mark was a pink star with several smaller surrounding it.

I didn’t need a second to figure out who was unfortunate as well as foolish enough to actually tread into the lands of the Princess of the Night.

And most certainly I couldn’t hide my smirk.

“GAH! RAINBOW LET ME DOWN!”

Yes, this distressed cries were truly music to my ears!

“Sorry Twi, but I somehow have to get you to the hospital,” the prismatic mare answered.

But before the wretched sun student could answer she was being flown away at high speed. A loud high-pitched scream followed her all the while.

“So are you ready?!” came an equally high-pitched voice, making me jump slightly as I noticed the pink pony beside me.

How she moved like that was honestly quite confusing as well as baffling. I couldn’t discern if she travelled by portals, teleportation or simply by speed. Any of these I should be able to detect.

I hummed thoughtfully.

It seems she would be another possible candidate for the guard. Maybe for stealth missions?

“We are,” I finally answered.

A happy nod followed as we went right after the pink mare. Our shy entourage made up the rear meanwhile, leaving me and the Princess in the middle. It was a rather favorable position. Seeing as this would make an ambush from behind harder. An ambush which was an option. At least I couldn’t imagine that everyone would be pleased to have an additional ruler now.

The tone in the noble houses was getting rougher over the last thousand years as Celestia failed to reign these fools in. Now they seem to think they can get away with just about anything. And let me tell you, they were never as favorable to demons like me or anyone who would actually support them. I even heard of a noble who lost a good portion of his influence due to his more favorable views towards everything non-pony.

In any case, it didn’t take long for us to trudge along and into the small town of Ponyville. The thatched roofs were a real hazard in my opinion. The cottage we stayed in was no exception. A fire could easily be used to harm the Princess. And that didn’t even count in the forests that were lying on the frontier which were honestly hardly guarded. At least I only counted two guards on the edge. It honestly made me realize that our stay here should be held short. No matter how much I dislike the Sun Witch, it would be safer inside Canterlot, especially once the Night Guard is installed.

But that wasn’t the only concern I had now. There was something strange about this town. An obvious flaw in the picture glaring right at us.

“You noticed it too, didn’t you Princess?” I asked while looking around the place.

The Princess nodded before taking a look around. Being the attentive…let’s say mare since there is no way I would besmirch her with the word, ugh, filly. So mare it is. Yes, being the attentive mare she was, she of course noticed the deserted streets and empty stands and shops. It seemed like a ghost town.

“This art quite strange,” she commented thoughtfully, “This little hamlet was bustling with activity yesterday.”

“Normally I would say that the ponies are cowering in fear of your majestic presence, but considering both of our less than…favorable forms I would assume that they might be at this…party.”

For some reason she looked uneasy. But being the analytical mind that I am it was easy to see that the Princess worried how other ponies might view her in her child-like form. That the ponies might have lost the respect, and dare I say, fear of her. Of course I couldn’t let this stand.

“But don’t you worry Princess! I’m sure that even now that you are in this form the ponies will know their proper place. After all I was doing my best over the past millennia to keep your fearsome reputation alive.”

“T-That’s…nice.”

I simply cocked an eyebrow.

“Are you sure you are alright?” I said before rolling one of my paws, “Well, besides this new and gruesome form you are subjected to.”

The Princess straightened up.

“I’m quite fine. It was just a bit much to take in. All these sudden changes leaving me with an uncomfortable feeling. And I was simply wondering where to go from there.”

I nodded approvingly.

“I see. Already thinking of ways to torture the minds of these weak-willed ponies. Truly admirabl-”

“Hey!” a brash voice which obviously knows not her place yet butted in, “What are you guys up to?” she asked with suspicion clear in her voice.

But before I could bring a rebuttal the Princess cut in.

“Ah, Rainbow Dash. I hope everything hath gone well for your friend?”

Seemingly caught off by the caring question and tone the Princess used, she decided to answer her.

“Well… The doctor said something about her horn being cracked, and that she will have to stop her magicking for a day.”

I snorted at the primitive choice of words, which made her sent me another glare.

But before she could bring up a weak rebuttal the pink demon sprayed confetti all over us as we halted in front of a door.

The door to townhall I remembered. Oh, how delicious it was for the first reveal of the true Ruler of Equestria!

Of course it now also serves as a reminder of my failed efforts.

But that wasn’t important right now. I had a Princess to serve after all. I was just about to step forward to open the door when the Princesses hand stopped me.

I looked up at her curiously.

“We don’t want any more broken doors now, won’t we?” she asked with an amused smile, before grabbing the knob with her magic and pulling it open.

I pointedly ignored the Princesses jab with a huff as well as the giggle of the pink demon as I concentrated my senses on the inside of the building.

An inside which was pitch black.

Despite that I could already hear murmured whispers and movement from inside. Not to mention the smell of quite a few different ponies gathered here. It seemed like a real crowd.

I wanted to warn the Princess from this suspicious actions, but she walked in, before I could do so much as open my mouth.

My legs spun into action as I quickly ran in after her, neglecting my own safety. Only a second later the lights came on, the sudden brightness stinging my eyes a little as I heard some bangs as well as a shout coming from the room.

“SURPRISE!” the crowd cheered as confetti sprayed just as I stepped protectively in front of the Princess.

The event left me slightly baffled to say the least. Even more so as I say the pink one being at the front of the crowd, even though I KNEW she was outside as I ran right in.

I tried to puzzle this all back together, but only could come so far, as some rather strange…noises passed my ears. Noises I recognized as…cooing?

“Aww!”

“Look at them! They are soooo cute together!”

“This puppy is just downright adorable! How it stepped right in front of the small filly!”

This were some of the lines I heard as ponies started approaching. Especially the mares seemed to step forward to actually squat down in front of me and while also some surrounded the Princess.

A sigh escaped my lips.

What would I give for a large monster to be barging in right now. Not that I would be that lucky.

An assassin was far more likely.

I nodded to myself. The Princess will need protection and I would provide it.

I then felt a hand coursing through my soft fur and petting my hand. It seems the pink one joined the circle, cooing and d’awwing.

Ugh.

This was definitely going to be a long day.

Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Four

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Five

“Well, it seems the entertainment for the party has arrived,” I stated as I cracked my paw knuckles before walking closer to the beast.

It only seemed to give me a sideways glance before turning back to the fillies. I could already hear panicked screams and a stomping of hooves, showing that the prey animals are leaving the area.

I was just about to get into the fray, when I heard a commanding tone address me.

“Fenrich! Safe the foals!” Luna ordered me as she got closer to the monster herself, while her eyes shone with a rather nostalgic determination, “We shalt show this mindless beast what it means to anger the Princess of the Night!”

“At once your highness!” I agreed as I sped forwards. Just in time I grabbed the three shirts of the problem fillies in my muzzle before forcefully dragging them away, just as one of the hydra heads sunk itself in the floorboards, completely obliterating them with a loud crack.

The fillies screamed out in surprise as I dragged them along the floors and towards the other side of the town hall where ponies were already storming out of the double doors.

They seemed a bit dizzy after this experience. I looked them over shortly, making sure they were in an adequate condition before turning back and running to the hydra. The Princess was already standing in a boxing stance before this foul beast.

She instantly rushed forward in admirable speed for her now weakened form and threw two quick punches to its gut. The hydra seemed to recoil slightly from the power of the punches, but was otherwise unharmed and unimpressed. It let out a furious roar as it dove one of his heads towards the Princess who quickly sidestepped it and letting it crash into the ground. She had however no time for a break as another head immediately dove for her new position as well, making her roll out of the way.

As she got up she threw another quick punch to the head now embedded in the wooden floor.

One other head quickly attacked her from the front, and it seemed the beasts had a strategy as the last one tried to take her off-guard from behind.

The Princess quickly jumped up avoiding the head on the front and prepared to strike the head below her now in mid-air. The one head on the back quickly made a lunge at her, but I of course smashed into its cheek with the same ferocity like the kick I decimated the door with earlier. This gave the Princess enough time to fire Ice on the creature, engulfing its body in ice before dispersing just as quickly, giving it some damage.

Both of us took this opportunity to take a step back and assess the situation. Ponies were still fleeing from the building, while the five mares were trying their best to bring them to safety. Rarity seemed to have taken the lead as she has stopped Rainbow from storming right into the battle.

‘It seems that she will live another day.’

Before we could dwell further on this all four heads of the hydra rose again. The creature scowled at us in clear distaste as it gave us a fierce and hate-filled glare.

Its heads lashed out again, making us dodge, before the beast whipped around. His thick tail lashing out at us. I ducked under it with ease, while the Princess took off with her reduced wing size, showing her agility as she was furthermore dodging their heads in the air, before giving a flurry of punches to one of the beasts throats, making it choke slightly.

I meanwhile took aim at the beasts knee, kicking it with all my might, and making it stumble slightly, so that it had to lean down on it.

The Princess and I looked at each other. A look which conveyed a concrete message. Our attack plan. Immediately we drew back, before both of us stormed at the creature. It tried to hinder us in our offensive by lashing out with its head, but we both managed to dodge. I then jumped in the air, being alongside the Princess as we both aimed our legs at this beasts torso, hitting it hard with a well-trained double kick.

The beast gasped out in surprise as it fell backwards through the hole it came from and into the open.

Much to our annoyance it quickly stood back up with a low menacing growl, seemingly unharmed by our combined efforts.

“Halt foul creature!”

And now it seemed that we even got some backup from solar guards as nine of them suddenly rushed forward towards the hydra.

Honestly, it is a pathetic display that the ones that are assigned with the protection of this little town are so late for the party. Not that I’m expecting much from a guard that was trained under the Sun Witch’s regime.

Anyway, the hydra glowered at the guards with annoyance but seemed to bide its time, letting them get near and clearly luring them in. It was quite the obvious trap, but the guards didn’t seem to notice that. The tensing of muscles was the only warning they received or probably even perceived as the beast swung around with his tail, using it as a powerful whip against the guards. Me and the Princess of course avoided this attack again with ease. The solar guards however…

More than half of them were hit by the reptiles strong tail and quickly knocked out. I couldn’t help the groan that escaped my lips at this sheer incompetence. Give me three of the night guard and they would do a better job than them. They would actually even manage to slay this monster with no problem.

The remaining solar guards weren’t all that helpful either, as two of them were quickly knocked out by the creatures head butt, leading to only one of them standing.

A young pegasus by the looks of it. He tried to put on a brave face, but he never seemed to have faced such a beast before. Clearly a recruit.

He raised his sword with shaky hands, making the creature chuckle maliciously as it raised its hoof.

Of course the guard was too shaken to dodge as the foot came down on him.

His sword bent and then shattered under the well-armored foot and it seems like this guard might lose his life, or face rather painful injuries to say the least.

Well, that was until the Princess stepped in, shoving the inept guard out of the way.

She held both of her hands up as the foot came down on her. But of course she wasn’t squashed like that guard would have been. She was holding the beasts foot aloof, much to the beasts frustration as it tried to stomp her, increasing the pressure on her.

The Princess strained under the weight of the beast, but was not going to give up.

“WE SAY NAY! NO LIFE SHALT BE LOST TODAY!” the Princess roared with a fierce determination, making my admiration for her spike again.

Unconsciously a memory was played in my mind. The memory of how I came to be her most loyal servant and right hand.

Of course I quickly shook this heart-warming memory off to help her. With a small sprint and some well-aimed torso kicks the Princess managed to get out under the foot as the beast stumbled back a bit.

The Princess gave me a grateful smile before turning back to the saved guard.

“Bring the guards to safety. We shall see to this matter personally.”

The guard nodded dumbly at the commanding tone, as well as in visible awe of the Princess, despite her diminutive form, making me smirk.

The Princess then turned back to the fight and we both got into a battling stance once again, ready to continue our fight with the hydra.

We then both continued to pummel the monster, always dodging, jumping, flying out of the way, while landing several punches and in Luna’s case some Ice spells, encasing some parts of the beast in thick layer of ice.

But each punch we threw at it, each time the Princess froze one of its limbs or heads, it would stun the creature only for a mere moment, before it was back to its full fighting prowess. It was quite disconcerting to say the least.

One head launched at her, and since she couldn’t dodge in time she got into a defense stance. The incoming headbutt was pushing her far back, leaving noticeable trench marks in the ground. Only three hydra lengths later she came to a stop, huffing in annoyance at this persistent creature that even dared to stuck its tongue out at her in clear defiance.

I quickly run over to her. Seeing as our assaults won’t work we might have to use a different kind of tactic. And I already had an idea.

“It seems that both of our attacks alone are not causing much damage, considering his scales give him quite the admirable DEF. At least for the likes of him,” I said in an analyzing tone of voice.

“So it seems,” the Princess nodded as she eyed the big monster for any kind of weakness she might have missed.

“But even the thickest hide can be torn asunder, if you only use either the right tool, or the right amount of magical prowess. Therefore allow me to make a proposal, Princess.”

“I’m listening.”

I simply mentioned one word. One word that I noticed on my commando bar. An ability I couldn’t use in my normal form, but now am able to pull off without a second thought. It definitely would be a new experience, but it might give the Princess the power she needs.

I could already see the realization in her eyes, before she thought about my proposal for a short moment.

“So thine suggestion is we use brute force to slay this mindless beast? To simply double our own fighting prowess in hope of piercing this hydras hide?” she asked with a sceptic gaze and a raised eyebrow.

I simply nodded, waiting for her judgement.

Just like I expected her eyes quickly lit up to the idea as she couldn’t help the cheery grin that formed on her muzzle.

“We really ADORE this idea, Fenrich! We art really quite fed up, like modern ponies would say with this beast, so taking it out like that would be a great help. Thou always seem to know the right thing to say!”

I bowed to her, “I knew you would see it like that. So shall we proceed?”

The Princess nodded, “We shall!”

With that I stepped forward to the Princess opened the commando bar in my minds eyes and let my gaze hover over the new option.

“MAGICHANGE!” I roared with determination as I chose the command.

What followed was a rather alien feeling as my own magic enveloped me and changed my form. I was twirling around the Princess in an arc of light a few times, before my body aimed in on her fists as it split in two. After both of them were enveloped I started to regain a form again.

When this new sensation was finished Luna had leather gloves on her fists. They were red like my own clothes with a bushel of fur on the inside and at the wrist end of it, making it rather comfortable for the wearer. Three black spikes lined her knuckles and my sharp eyes were directly beneath that.

I will admit that it was a bit disorientating, considering how I was split in two and had now two different sets of eyes in different locations.

“Art thou alright?” the Princess finally asked as she eyed the new pair of magichange weapons.

“I’m quite alright. It is only a strange feelings since this was my first Magichange. But I will get used to it over time.”

The Princess nodded, before going into a boxing stance again and eyeing the hydra. A small smile then spread across her face.

“We must say, thou art quite comfortable to wear Fenrich.”

“I thank you for your compliment Princess. Now shall we dispose of this blight?”

The Princess nodded as she stepped closer to the scaly nuisance, “We will.”

Said hydra seemed rather wary after the show of magical might that came with the Magichange. It seemed to be smarter than I gave it credit. The Princess of course saw this careful behavior too, and it only fueled her confidence.

“Thou seem surprised. Fenrich knew that our power alone was not enough yet. But with our combined efforts we shalt now smite thee!”

And so she did. She landed punch after hard punch at the beasts torso, making his heads gasp in pain as its skin was embedded through the punches.

Of course it tried to retaliate in a blind rage, but the Princess easily dodged its heads as they one after the other came crushing down into the dirt.

Seeing as its tactic didn’t work it quickly turned trying another tail whip.

Luna laughed triumphantly as she sprung up before it could hit her. She hereby propelled herself towards two of its heads, her fists connecting with both of them. I even heard a satisfying crack as both of the heads jaws dislocated and it fell on its back with a loud wail of pain.

Of course the beast wasn’t defeated just yet, but the blood that was dripping from its maws and nostrils was a good indication as any that it would soon be over.

It stood up with an intense hate-filled glare. The two heads with working jaws roaring loudly in fury as it stormed at us in a blind rage, not caring for any form of defense.

“Let’s finish this, Fenrich!” the Princess stated elated.

“As you wish! All is for my Princess!”

With that she kicked the incoming and annoying hydra up in the air. All of the ponies around stared in awe as it was lifted up, before gravity decided to drag it back down again. The shadow was directly beneath the Mistress of the Night, who just smirked.

Both gloves then started to glow as the spikes on them started to grow and harden to almost unnatural levels.

“Bloodrain Terror!” we both exclaimed as she assaulted the beast with a flurry of punches as soon as it came in reach. Again and again they connected painfully with it, as the sheer speed and ferocity of our attacks kept it in midair.

Dent after painful dent formed in the hydras scales, before the Princess deemed it enough and let both fists connect with the body to drive it higher again, as she prepared herself for the last attack.

She jumped up as the gloves started to grow brighter, crackling with energy.

As she when reached the creature she drove both fists deep into the beasts scales.

Nothing seemed to happen for a moment as the time seemed to slow to a halt. At least before a few seconds later a huge hole was torn into the beasts torso and its guts spilled out of its back. Like a blood-red fountain.

The Princess then came back down as the body of the hydra landed next to her. A rain of blood followed only a second later, showering the Princess in the life-giving substance.

I turned back into myself after the blood rain ended and nodded approvingly.

“That was an excellent show of power Princess.”

And I meant every word of it. Just how the ponies turned green or cowered in fear at the filly in front of them that was bathed in all matters of guts and bloody grime. It warmed my cold heart. This was the Princess I remembered.

The Princess I swore fealty to.

She seemed rather proud of her kill, and she could be, considering her limited power. However her attitude seemed to change then suddenly as she noticed the stares of the ponies.

She was suddenly wrapping her arms around her chest as if she was cold, her shoulders were tense, while looking frantically around at the whispering and fear-struck ponies. Her breathing seemed to quicken just as her heartrate did.

“…Princess?” I asked worriedly. But not because I didn’t recognize the emotion that played in her eyes, because I very well did. And this was the problem.

The emotion was fear.

Before I could do anything else the Princess started to run off in a hurried pace, leaving me and everyone else behind.

‘Just what happened?’ I mused rather confused. She seemed to be a bit off today, I noticed that, but the problem seems to run deeper than I first anticipated.

I looked around the crowd again. Fear still displayed. I then even saw the five Element Bearers. Rarity, Flutteshy and Pinkie looked worried after the Princess, while Applejack and Rainbow Dash shot me disgusted and disapproving looks, which honestly made me roll my eyes.

‘How would they have handled the situation?’ I thought with clear annoyance.

But there was no time for this. Deciding that I needed to comfort the Princess I took off in search for her, only one thought occupying my mind.

‘What did I miss?’

Author's Note

Thi chapter is also longer than expected, considering it was only a short fighting chapter.

Anyway, the next chapter is almost completely finished already. I only have to write the beginning and then think about maybe letting the end scene in or not. I think the impact on the end scene isn't as strong as it could be, but procrastinating it would lower the impact two, just at a different angle. Maybe I'm thinking too much about it?

Episode 2: New Endeavors of a Nightmare - Part Six

It took me quite some time to locate the Princess, meaning it took me the whole day. I was running left and right, through the whole town, the edge of the forest, even going as far as into the Everfree, but if she didn’t want to be found, she wouldn’t be found.

One good thing happened during my search though, I grew.

And not only in strength let me tell you. As the hydra was defeated with Magichange this meant of course EXP for not only the Princess but also for me, giving me precious levels and also making my body grow from puppy-size a bit more than thrice my size. So I was now bigger than a husky. I was quite sure that I will be back into my old body after defeating one more opponent as this much to my relief. Of course the same thing was applying to the Princess. She would have gotten a growth spurt as well.

Not that it alleviated my worries for her as my search came up empty. The fact that this monster attack might have been a veiled assassination attempt also set my worry ablaze.

Only when it was that she had raised the moon did I manage to find her by locating her magical signature. With that I could finally zoom in on her. She was rather slippery like that when she wanted to be.

Some might view this as a contradiction of course since how can someone give brutal blows while at the same time being stealthy? Well, the Princess can. Her main attributes lie in her ATK, SPD, but also INT, in case she is fighting anything that needs to be subjected to her magical might to be defeated.

It didn’t take long to get to some apple orchards and to a hill I could see the Princess reside. It was a rather isolated spot since it was close to the Everfree, but despite that it had a beautiful outlook on her night sky. She had her legs pulled against her body as she seemed lost in thoughts while gazing at her truly breathtaking night.

Despite this distraction the Princess of course immediately noticed my presence as I saw her muscles tense. She was now in the body of a teenager, rather than a filly. Her blue moon-themed dress had grown with her level up, signifying that the Harmony Magic at least was somewhat accommodating to her needs, despite that truly abhorrent drain it set on her. And yes, the dress is not hindering her performance seeing as it is wide enough down there so that the Princess can do an unimpeded sprint. Though I will make sure that she will wear something more suitable for the battles to come.

As I finally came within reach I couldn’t help a slight smile gracing my muzzle.

“It seems that I have finally found you,” I said with a bit of relief, “You shouldn’t run off on your own Princess. Like the hydra attack has shown it is quite dangerous. I am rather sure that this attack was a rather flimsily planned assassination attempt. But who knows what our adversaries might try next?”

However, then I noticed that the Princess was still not facing me and looked quite nervous.

“Princess, is something wrong?” I asked with palpable concern. Of course I knew something was wrong, but that was for the Princess to tell and for me to listen to.

She flinched at my words, confirming my suspicions. It took her a moment to actually pull herself together and face my concerned stare with determination.

“We no longer desire to be feared, Fenrich!”

This outburst made me reel back a bit in surprise before I eyed the mare with confusion, “…Wait. What do you mean Princess?”

She pulled her legs tighter to her body, as her eyes misted with unshed tears. Her entire body was trembling which worried me greatly.

“You know that you can talk to me about everything Princess. I won’t leave your side.”

This seemed to make her perk up, but she still couldn’t help but twiddle with her fingers a bit.

“We-, sorry Fenrich, but… we desire to be…loved again. And we still know how that turned out the last time…but…we simply can’t take it anymore! Didst you see how these ponies looked at us?! Like we art some woodland monster! Even though we hath just saved all of their lifes! And we just…” she forced out agitated as she looked at the sky longingly.

“Don’t we deserve to be loved?” A dejected sigh escaped her. “We art truly sorry…” she said as she lowered her head again.

“You don’t have to apologize Princess!” I instantly said shoving my surprise by her decision to the side, “It was my fault. I shouldn’t have assumed that you wanted to continue your reign of terror. Especially with how you were reacting I should have noticed this sooner!”

She shook her head before she looked up at the beautiful night sky again.

“I know how much you want me to outshine all the others. To be the ruler of this country, nay, the entire world. To be the greatest being in this universe and beyond. …Maybe you should aid another being more suitable for this honor.”

I was taken aback by this rather uncharacteristic claim. Just to think how she didn’t think herself worthy of my goals, my ambitions. Not to mention the thoughts of who exactly planted the seeds of doubt inside her.

It made my blood boil.

Of course I knew aggression wouldn’t solve this problem. So I tried a different approach.

“What do you mean? You are the greatest being in the universe and no mare would deserve this honor more than you. Who did after all slay Smaug, the brother of the Dragon Lord as this foul creature wanted to lay waste to all of Equestria?”

“Well…us.”

I nodded approvingly, “Or who did arrest the world famous thief Fingersmith Flash.”

“We…might have done this.”

“Or don’t forget that one time there you faced the mighty Fist of Baal to protect me from certain death.”

At this point the Princess couldn’t help the light blush that was covering her dark cheeks from having all of her achievements being listed that bluntly. She even turned her head away from me shyly making me almost swoon from her godlike humble posture.

‘Time to hammer the point in.’

“See? I said this once and I will say it again: All is for my Princess. If you wish me to I will go to the depths of Tartarus, or even go as far as to…aid you in a popularity contest. Even though I hope you won’t go this far.”

This actually made Luna giggle. The melodious sound of her amusement echoed through the night, making me smile slightly. She then smirked at me.

“Nay. we think we art not that desperate YET,” she said before looking back to the full moon and the perfect night sky she created.

She simply looked at it serenely, seemingly at ease as if a huge weight was lifted from her shoulders. It took her a minute before she spoke up again. This time it was barely above a whisper.

“…Thank you for being my friend.”

I bowed my head demurely before I sat down next to her as we enjoyed the night.

Planning could wait until tomorrow. All that was important now was to be there for her. Considering she was alone for a thousand years she really seemed to have missed the company. Especially in a world which must seem so strange to her. A thousand years have passed. Many ponies are not around anymore and I seem to be the one pillar she thinks to have left.

I am an idiot for not seeing this in her plea on that fateful night she returned. She stated so herself after all. She stated that I was the only friend she had left.

The Princess then suddenly scooted closer and our sides pressed against each other, making me tense slightly at this foreign body warmth. It was also a reminder for myself about how long I haven’t served under her. The Princess of course was regale and majestic in front of the public. But she also had this other more affectionate side of hers which only her best friends ever saw.

A friend I have to be for her. I swore fealty to her. By the moon. I was going to serve her in any way necessary. And together we would see through this hardships the Sun Witch will surely provide us with.

After all, all is for my Princess.

Not far away from the two, a mare was watching the scene with baited breath and she could barely suppress the ‘squee’ that escaped her.

Somewhere else…

It was dark. A dark tall hall which was aligned like a throne room and craved out of stone and crystal. Brilliant blue glowing crystals shimmered on the pillars which lined the hall giving the room a weak blue glow. Many didn’t know about this place, or have forgotten about it over time. But there was a group who didn’t forget. A group or especially one being that would never forget.

Said beings fur shimmered in the aforementioned light the crystals emitted. It seemed to have a white sheen to it. Not many could tell it from the distance or with this lighting, since it rather screwed around with the color perception.

Before this mysterious being kneeled another one in a low bow of respect.

“So, is it true? Did you really fail that miserably?” the being on the throne asked in an aggressive tone, making the one before give a nervous chuckle.

“Well… Failing is such a hard word. Let’s rather say… I have postponed the date of success a bit.”

“Oh, is that so? Then you call using a hydra amongst a crowd of ponies a subtle way of approaching this matter? The best possible solution to rid ourselves of this occurring hindrance?”

“I, um, well… You see…”

A furred hand met a face in a rather annoyed facepalm.

“Sometimes I wonder why I actually accepted you into my services, if you can’t seem to fulfil a simple assassination request. But enough of that. I have another mission for you which might be more befitting of your skill set. And of course this time I won’t accept failure.”

“Of course!”

A small grin appeared on the beings face.

“Good. Now listen closely, because it seems my plans will finally come to fruition with these new information I hold...“

~END~

Author's Note

I was listening to this while writing most of the chapter:

Beautiful, isn't it? :raritystarry:

Anyway, it seems a 'New Endeavor' *wink* :raritywink: was found! So Chapter 2 is officially finished now! Next update will be a while, but it will in any case be a crossover, seeing how it is necessary for what I have planned.

I hope you all enjoyed this Episode. Critique is like always welcome! :pinkiesmile:

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part One

~Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare~

“What do you mean the Princess can’t go to Canterlot?! This is an outrage!” I protested rather loudly at one of the stationed solar guards with which I started a conversation in order to get the Princess to a more safe location. However, things didn’t seem to go quite as planned.

“It’s just like I said,” the generic guard droned on, seemingly not very interested in the very conversation he was holding or in the importance this had for the safety of the TRUE Princess, as he continued to sit leaned back on his chair behind his desk in the guards barracks of Ponyville, while reading newspaper to boot!

“Political riots are going on in the Canterlot Noble Houses. Many quite loudly protest to give a being former known as Nightmare Moon any political power. Not to mention to let her live that close to them. Especially Prince Blueblood is a strong advocate as well as the leader of this movement and so she can’t go to Canterlot Castle until this is all sorted out.”

I simply bared my fangs in rage at this display. The urge to pummel this insolent droning guard into the ground growing ever stronger.

“When it really is like that we simply will have to live in the old castle in the Everfree!” I declared annoyed and the guard put the newspaper down and snorted condescendingly.

“The Princess as well as you are confined to Ponyville. If you try to leave we will have to detain you both in a cell.”

As if to emphasize this point he gripped the handle of his sword.

My fur bristled at that and I was about to jump over the desk and directly at this throat at the threat against the Princess as well against the way she was treated by this scum that couldn’t hold his own against a hydra. I remember quite well that this big shot here was the first to fall against the beast. It makes one wonder how he got the command over the guard in this little town. But then again, all guards were equally incompetent. They could have pulled straws with the same result.

Anyway, as I was about to pounce a hand on my withers made me halt my actions. I looked to the Princess who seemed equally unhappy by this as she shot the guard a small glare.

“We see. We will take our leave then.”

She then stood up to leave. Fluttershy, who was standing nearby followed her out too, looking rather sad at what had just transpired. I followed out too after giving the guard another short death glare.

Things didn’t get better in the corridor that let us outside as some guards were openly glaring at us, while I simply fledged my teeth at them, making them step back as I took the lead to bring the Princess outside. It seemed that the guards weren’t all that happy that we had to save their collective plots. Well, at least most of them. There was this one guard that gave us an apologetic smile. The one the Princess saved as far as my nose can tell. Might be double agent material for later on if he can be whipped in shape.

We then finally stepped out of the musty barracks as a fresh breeze rustled our coats. It was quite refreshing and helped to get us calmer once again.

Well, at least a bit.

“Art thou alright?” the Princess asked as we distanced ourselves from this disgrace that are the Ponyville Guard Barracks.

“I’m fine,” I immediately replied, but the Princess cut me off as she walked directly into my path.

“Fenrich. We can see thine aggression. Actually tis a matter that worries us greatly. Thou art not acting like this normally. Thou art far more level-headed. Doth the regression of power and age hath an effect on thine mind as well?”

“I appreciate your concern my Princess, but I am quite well,” I said before shuddering and correcting myself, “Maybe a bit miffed at this insolent guards, as well as still feeling humiliated with this weak form, but this is nothing you need to concern yourself with. It is more important for you now to gain power again and with that,” I said as I presented my furry foreleg to her, “to drink my blood.”

The princess licked her lips unconsciously but recoiled a second later and backed away.

“I can’t! I made a promise to our sister to never drink blood again!”

Yes, this was also a new issue that I found out. After Princess Luna got over telling me her new endeavors she also saw it a good opportunity to tell me how the Sun Witch locked a large part of her powers by prohibiting her to drink blood. The Princess of course promised it since my life was in danger back then at the castle then I lost consciousness. I guess I already had a feeling that today was going to look rather bleak after that revelation at the breakfast table. It would greatly impair plans as well as the Princesses future performances against threats, which I of course tried to point out to her at this very moment.

“But Princess! How will you be able to protect yourself here or your people in the fu-“ but I was cut off by her.

“NO! A promise is a promise! It cannot be undone! The fastest way to lose someone’s trust who is dear to thou is to break a promise!”

“FOREVER!” screamed a pink blob that suddenly appeared behind us from a hedge, surprising us greatly. Fluttershy herself also let out a characteristic ‘eep’ as her muscles tense and she fell rather comically sideways.

I again didn’t notice her which didn’t help my mood. But at least she was civilized enough to offer cat’s tongues as an apology gift. She did it so that there won’t be a ‘frowny FenFen’ as she put it. I took the gift regardless with a huff since she would only bother me if I didn’t.

…And also since I needed some endorphins in my system right now. I mean if today continued like this I would need any non-impairing substance I can get, meaning alcohol was not an option as not to harm my performance and to protect the Princess from certain harm.

Just let’s recap this days events for now, so that you might see why I might be a bit moody. I just found out that A: The Princess can’t go to Canterlot for protection, B: She was forbidden by her lovely sister to drink blood, weakening her greatly, and making her open for any further assassination attempts, C: Is confined and therefore forced to stay in Ponyville like a criminal, not to mention the towns rather small and incompetent guard.

To say my mood was rather dampened despite the endorphin the cat’s tongues provided would be like saying water is wet, or that Sun Witch is a bitch. A cake-gorging one whose plot is too fat to pass through any normal doors, but only the ones provided in her castle. Yes, the castle belongs completely to Celestia even though the property a thousand years ago was Luna’s. She simply was cheated out of it after her banishment and treated like a death case, making Celestia inherit it. And even though her sister is back Luna won’t be seeing Celestia signing over her property back to her, neither will the law that would normally give her back this property find use since Celestia has immunity, meaning she could kill me on the open street without fearing any repercussions. The only reason she didn’t actually do it were her sister and the Element of Kindness.

I’m ranting now, aren’t I? I guess the simple thought of this Sun Witch is driving me mad with rage. Not to mention the worry of how to protect the Princess if my options are so scarcely limited. Maybe this physically reversed ‘age’ is really having an effect on me?

It doesn’t matter. Luckily I have a contingency plan for this. Two, to be honest, but one of said plans is involving a strange little item and could backfire, so I won’t hold my breath on it.

Contingency plan number one will therefore first be used, before I actually try out this new item.

“Anyway, I already have plans to improve on our situation Princess,” I started as she gave me a curious look, as well as a smile, “This plan being a meeting that might interest you.”

“Oh? A meeting with whom?” she wondered.

“Why spoil the surprise?” I asked mysteriously as I led the way.

The Princess didn’t seem to mind the secrecy and came along, just as Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie.

The walk to Whitetail Woods didn’t take long and went without much incident. At least if you didn’t count the frightened stares we received after our little demonstration of yesterday. It was still early, so there weren’t that many ponies on their way, making it not that much of a strain on the Princess as she tried her best to ignore it. I was confident however that the surprise might turn her mood, or like Pinkie would say: ‘Turn that frown upside down.’

As we reached the edge of Whitetail Woods I stopped, holding a paw up signaling the Princess of the ponies to wait for a moment as I opened my pocket dimension inventory and scooped through it. Once I found the item I needed I clicked on it and a ‘Red Phone’ appeared. I quickly dialed the number needed with my claws, before waiting.

It was quickly answered by a female as well as casual voice.

“Yeah?”

“It’s time to move forward,” I simply said, and the voice answered back in understanding.

“Understood,” she said before hanging up and I put the phone back into my inventory.

After that instantly two forms shot out of the shadows landing swiftly, but rather softly on the ground before me and the Princess with a bow. Luna’s eyes quickly widened as she recognized them as thestrals. However, before she could take in any more the guard captain I assigned spoke up.

“Hey there-“ she casually started to greet us as she lifted her head to meet us, only to interrupt herself as her cheeks suddenly puffed out as her whole body shook with mirth. Of course she didn’t manage to hold her composure as it broke only seconds later and she started to roll on the ground with boisterous laughter.

‘I don’t know why I expected anything other from her,’ I thought with a groan as her loud laughter continued to fill the air.

Author's Note

Last chapter for now. Now I need to learn for exams. It will be over in about a month, so expect more in February! :pinkiesmile:

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Two

“BWAHAHAHHAHA! YOU LOOK RIDICULOUS FENRICH!” the guard captain said clutching her sides as she let it all out. I couldn’t help but groan and rubbing the bridge of my nose while Luna giggled softly behind her hand, finding it amusing. Pinkie however started rolling on the ground as well besides the guard captain. Not that I expected any different from her. Fluttershy only smiled softly.

Luckily the guard captain managed to regain her composure after a minute of her raucous laughter as she rubbed her sides and kneeled down beside the other bat guard once again.

“Sorry, I just didn’t expect that, is all,” was her plain answer, which still held some mirth in it.

I simply rolled my eyes at the guard captains childish antics. She can be glad I was not judging her rang on this, otherwise she would stand quite a bit lower on the career ladder.

“Anyway, now that this issue is resolved, Princess let me introduce you to Aurora, Captain of the Night Guard and…” I said as my gaze fell on the other guard which made me want to groan, but still thanks to my overdemonly abilities in keeping a stoic demeanor I didn’t, and simply frowned lightly, “another generic guard. You don’t need to remember his name.”

Much to my chagrin this unimportant nitwitted night guard took this moment to speak up.

“I-I’m really happy to finally meet you Princess! I heard so many great stories of how you were protecting us and were fighting many monsters, thieves and threats. I’m j-just so happy to be able to serve you!” the nervous stammering generic guard brought out making Aurora snicker as she elbowed his still deeply bowing form.

“Geeze. We get it PB. Childhood hero and all that,” she said with a teasing grin, before turning to the Princess, “But I will admit that I’m also honored to finally meet you, though I imagined you being bigger, especially around the chest area,” she replied cheekily as she made grabbing movements with her hands in front of her own chest.

While Luna couldn’t help the blush that appeared on her cheeks I scowled at Aurora’s blasphemy disapprovingly.

“What?”

“Nothing. I’m just thinking how long I should give you latrine duty.”

“Ha! Jokes on you! We don’t even have a latrine here!”

“Then I will order you to make one so that you can do the duty!”

“Wha-! Hey! Fenrich that’s no fair!” she protested indignantly, while Pinkie simply giggled, making Aurora pout at her.

“Anyway,” I continued ignoring both of them, “she will be in charge of the guard. Her behavior might suggest otherwise but she is the most capable of the entire guard and will be a valuable asset to serve you.”

Aurora thankfully composed herself after she stopped her grumbling.

“Yup, that’s right. Anyway, I of course heard that the Princess decided to rule alongside her sister instead of taking over, but it wasn’t mentioned how,” she gestured with an amused smile at me, “this came to be.”

“The Elements of Harmony were used as a weapon against us, draining us of our levels and weakening us, forcing our surrender. The less said about this shameful event the better.”

“Gee, that must have sucked big time.”

“It did ‘suck’ indeed, albeit I would prefer it if you could keep your language a bit more formal around the Princess. Anyway I have work for you to do. Our current situation is rather harmful for the Princesses safety. Therefore I will have to take a risk. A risk I would like your support in case something happens.”

“A risk?” she echoed, turning serious as I nodded.

“Yes. The Princess needs a suitable accommodation. And as much as I appreciate Fluttershy’s kind offer, her cottage won’t be enough,” I commented, and saw said mare shooting me a sad smile, “So I plan on unleashing a powerful artifact in the hopes whatever it summons will be able to solve our problem. But if said being turns out less cooperative…”

“You want me to be ready with the entirety of the Night Guard?”

I nodded, “Exactly. I hate taking risks like that, but I also can’t allow the Princess to be a sitting duck after this assassination attempt.”

Aurora reeled back at this news quite shocked.

“Woah! Woah! Woah! Hold up a second there, Fluffy! Assassination?!”

The Princess immediately stepped in sighing, “Fenrich, tis was a mere accident. Some foals foalishly bringing in a foul beast.”

I simply shook my head at her good-hearted nature. She wouldn’t expect some foul nobles to plot against her, but I did.

“I don’t believe in coincidences,” I stated.

“Fenrich…”

Aurora stepped in, “Yeah. I honestly don’t want to sound paranoid like Fluffy here, but I would also prefer you having some safe roof over your head and so on. You are both in a weakened state. I mean, why risk it?”

I nodded gratefully towards Aurora, before turning to the Princess again, “I hope you will trust me on this decision.”

Luckily the mention of trust did just what I expected it to do, as the Princesses face turned instantly into a supporting smile, “I will. I always do.”

Of course some might berate me for steering her in that direction deliberately with a simple choice word. But it was only for her own good. Sometimes she needs guidance, just like she guided me once.

I looked around the group, all seemingly ready to move on.

“Good. Now let’s move closer to the Everfree. And see if we can’t solve this problem.”

It didn’t take long to gather the troops outside Ponyville at the edge of the Everfree. 10 minutes tops. I imagine the Royal Guard would take longer for this same task. But then again, you can’t compare a cake made by the finest confectioners with a cheap cupcake.

“Cupcakes are not cheap!” Pinkie quickly protested, making me jump slightly at her sudden appearance beside me, as I raised a confused brow. She took it as an invitation to continue, “Does this-“ she said while holding out a cupcake, “-look cheap? Or taste-“ she shoved said cupcake in my muzzle, “-cheap to you?”

The cupcake surprisingly looked as well as tasted like a fine piece of black forest cake. How she actually knew my favorite was beyond me, but at this point I didn’t question her seemingly enormous demonic powers. I was just glad that she seemed to stand on the right side. There are some opponents I have no interest in facing. Of course I still needed to face her now to give her my judgement of this cupcake.

“It certainly is surprisingly good, I will admit. Although I should not indulge too much, since I don’t want to get out of shape.”

And it was true. Pinkie seemed to love to feed me chocolate. Just for breakfast she was stuffing me with cat tongues. On the other hand I could indulge more than even that fat-butted alicorn of the sun. Demon metabolism was even more powerful than an alicorns metabolism after all, meaning getting overweight for a demon was a real challenge. I also always had the suspicion that the Sun Witch secretly resented me and all demons for this advantage.

“That’s okay, FenFen. But you also shouldn’t go too long without something sweet either. You know what they say: A cupcake a day keeps the frown at bay! And since you are frowning quite a lot FenFen you should eat quite a lot of cupcakes! Or cat tongues!”

I didn’t dare to object, but… honestly, how a normal pony can keep their figure while being close to her is a real mystery to me. And I will probably have to be careful that she won’t be fattening the Princess with her sugar addiction.

“I understand. But step back now, since I will start the summoning.”

She luckily nodded happily and me and did just that.

I then opened the menu and went straight to the item section, where I when went to the warehouse part and looked up the cylinder. I found it quickly enough and materialized it into my hand. Energy immediately flowed from this little trinket. The promise of either a powerful ally or foe. I poked it with my own demon essence and it played its all too familiar message again.

I am the changer of shape, seeking to understand the many forms of life. Call for the man of many shapes during your hour of need and I will come, a one man army. Activate the cylinder and in a flash I’ll be ready to clash.

An army sounds promising. Even though I had no intention of using it for war in this instance. The Princess certainly wouldn’t approve of it sadly… Instead I will have to see if this being can simply solve our current predicament.

Honestly, the probability was not really that high, but currently it was a chance. And I would take it. All so that the Princess will stay safe, as well as live in reasonable conditions once again. Despite how much I appreciated the gesture from Fluttershy, her room hardly was up to par with Princess standards. Not to mention that it couldn’t house the entirety of the Night Guard.

With that my decision made, I concentrated on summoning this being.

“Changer of shape. Your aid is direly needed in those hard times. Come forth and serve the one and only true Princess of the Night. Be the vassal that will smite her every hindrance and make her night shine gloriously over the light of the inferior sun once again. I, Fenrich, right hand of the Princess of the Night summon you!”

“He is rather theatrical,” said Aurora with a smirk as she stood ready on the sidelines for what was about to happen. Punching Bag only gave a stiff nod, as all his muscles were tense from the situation. He without a doubt was imagining what creature exactly would be summoned and how dangerous and frightening it would look.

The cylinder let out a green flash, blinding us for a moment. I blink my eyes, noticing a rather tall man, wearing a t-shirt that advertised ‘Black Death vodka.’ He had waist length hair, worn out jeans, and a strange device that took up most of his arm.

Next to him was a shorter male, who had a unicorn horn and a pair of wings. I could just make out a pair of hooves poking out the bottom of his pants. He also wore a pair of jeans, and a shirt featuring a stylized warrior on it.

Punching Bag, being the dimwit that he was breathed a sigh of relief as his picture of a dangerous foe didn’t come true visually. But I could still feel the power emanating from the taller one. He clearly had a high level, which could be both good and bad. Good, because he might be able to do what is needed, and bad that he might be hard to fight if he turns out to be a sun-loving foe.

Despite all that I moved on. Introductions were in order. My wolf-like form certainly not the most fitting for such a task, but it will have to do for now. I stood on both my hindpaws, gaining a bit of height, even though I of course still was being dwarfed.

“And you must be the changer of shape,” I started, eying the taller being intently, “I have a job for you.”

He held his hand up, looking at his shadow. “Alright Morph, it’s fine, you can come out.” I was going to ask what he meant, when an adolescent, four legged pony foal emerged from his shadow. He only came up to the mans knee, sporting a light blue coat and white mane. He was also, apparently, an alicorn.

Of course I couldn’t say anything about his size, considering my own diminutive form was only slightly larger than his.

But it certainly was going to be interesting.

Author's Note

Progress my friends!

Anyway, the next chapter will be out soon. It's going to get rather emotional. Nothing I had planned when I listed: Displaced Talk, to the list of things to happen in this chapter. But two different people with two different perspectives can lead to a heated argument. I found it a bit emotionally draining, but conflict is something that is needed in every story. And the chapters after that should be more amusing then conflicting. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this chapter and will enjoy the chapters that will follow! :pinkiesmile:

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Three

Author's Note

This chapter was a bit rewritten. My collab partner thought that Jason came off as a bit too hostile in that argument between them, so he wanted to change it. Pretty much made the chapter smaller, but the argument is not really relevant, so it didn't matter. :pinkiesmile:

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Three

Here we stand. I was honestly a bit surprised to see three different individuals after only expecting to summon one, but I was willing to take what I could get, and the being certainly had enough levels to probably do the job.

Though I had to recognize that my line wasn’t the most polite one to start with, but I like to get straight to the point. Still, I decided to correct myself by starting an introduction.

“My name is Fenrich, right hand of Princess Luna. I have summoned you to assist us with a task of greatest importance. But introductions first, who do I have the honor with?” I asked eying the three beings.

The man gazed down at me, curiously. “I’m Jason Hughes, Equestrian Prince of Valor. This is Bartz.” He gestures at the hybrid. “And that's Morpheus.” He motioned at the colt.

I nodded, “It certainly is a nice surprise to meet another humanoid being like you. You are the first in a long time. And before you ask, normally I do have a more humanoid look, but the Elements of Harmony are a fickle thing, and robbed me of my levels, reverting me to this rather degrading state of a small wolf for now.”

Jason snickered, shaking his head. “Then, you only have yourself to blame for getting hit with the friendship laser.”

I of course huffed at his rude remark, “I didn’t have much of a choice. The Princess was about to be hit, so I tried to intervene. Sadly it didn’t work and she got reverted into a more degrading form too,” I said while gesturing to the teenage form of Princess Luna, who nodded respectfully at the three, as she eyed our interaction with interest.

Bartz and Morpheous gazed at Luna, looking rather shocked. Jason however, nodded. “Right, so, you guys are way behind me in the timeline. Anyway, I’m not going to help you put the sun out. That's an incredibly stupid idea. Everything else though, within reason, is fine.”

“As if anyone would need the sun and its wretched mover the Sun Witch,” I commented with disdain, before shaking my head, “But sadly Luna wouldn’t approve of this anyway, since she conciliated with her sister much to my chagrin. The plan at the moment doesn’t have anything to do with this though. It is more about a proper accommodation. The Princess needs safety, and since the nobles currently protest to let her into Canterlot,” I made sure to put a lot of venom into that one word, “we know are faced with a problem. The solution would be to move the Castle of the Two Sisters from the Everfree, to here, the edge of the Everfree. Do you think, you are able to do that?”

Jason shrugged. “Yeah, I can do that. Omnitrix, Alien X.” The device on his arm let out a flash, and he was transformed into a black skinned humanoid, who looked like the night sky come alive. An awkward silence filled the air, where Jason just stood there for a few minutes.

“So,” I started, “Are you going to move the castle now?”

“Give him a few minutes,” Bartz spoke, shifting on his hooves. “He’s debating.”

“Debating?” I mused with a paw on my chin as I cocked my head.

Bartz nodded. “Alien X is a Celestial Sapian. In order for them to make any action, their various personalities have to reach a consensus.”

“Sounds rather bothersome to me. But then again, my Overload is something I can only use in combination with moonlight.”

“Motion carried!” Jason shouted, extending his arms. A strange pulse went through the air, the world itself rippling.

All the Night Guards around were tensing, as they looked uneasily around themselves and were ready to jump into action should anything harmful happen, while Luna and I stared at our surroundings intently.

Jason changed back, rubbing his head. “Your castles moved.” He turned towards the guards, giving them an unimpressed look. “I know you're doing your job, but, relax.”

Aurora took that as her signal to step in front of Jason, Punching Bag trailing behind her and much to my chagrin even hiding a bit behind her.

“No offense dude, but you are an unknown around here, so we were a bit cautious. Especially after finally getting our Princess back after a thousand years. But since you did your work like promised, I think we can return some trust. Isn’t that right boys and girls?”

As if in answer the guards let out a collective “Yes, Ma’am!”

It made me nod approvingly, seeing at how disciplined they are.

I then stepped over to Aurora, “It seems the Night Guard won’t be needed any longer. You should go ahead and let them move into the castle. A lot of work has to be done. From repairs to establishing the different sections.”

The Guard Captain grinned, “Sure thing! You heard it! Let’s move on!”

With that the guard moved over to the castle, starting their work. They were fast workers, so I think this should be done quickly. Even more so once they made a portal to bring in supplies. I say, in ten minutes things might already be in a good condition. Give them an hour and everything will be completely established, minus the repairs. Those would probably take about a week.

I turned back around to Jason and the...children.

A frown crossed my muzzle.

Why do I have to think about this now?

I shook my head free and then wanted to address them. Princess Luna had meanwhile stepped beside me, laying a comforting hand on my back, probably already sensing my mood.

This was also I assume the reason she started talking, “We thank thee, Jason Hughes. For thou didst offer us a great service. How about we invite thee and thine foals to lunch?”

Bartz grumbled, putting his hands in his pockets. “I’m seventeen.”

Luna blinked, “Well, we heard once that parents always see their foals as foals. So since thou are Jason’s foals we assumed this to be a proper term to describe both of thee at once instead of addressing thee separately. Were we wrong?”

Morpheus giggled, gazing up at her. “We’re not Uncle Jay’s foals.”

That made me quirk an inquisitive brow. “Not his foals? This is rather peculiar and makes me wonder what kind of uncaring mother would let their foals move through dimensions with their uncle. Certainly the Princess would react much more appropriate for example if she had foals.”

Jason smirked. “Actually, funny you should mention that.” He put a hand on Bartz’s shoulder. “Bartz here is the son of my adopted father Gilgamesh, and Luna. Morpheus is the love child of Nightmare Moon and Discord.”

This made me, as well as the Princess sputter as we reeled to actually take in what was said.

Not necessary to say that it didn’t work.

“M-M-My foals?!” Luna exclaimed in shock, while my response was...more displeased.

“What did you say?! Some undeserving scoundrels I didn’t even approve worthy of the Princess were giving foals to her?!” I fumed, not liking the idea of some unknown beings spending time with the Princess I served my entire life.

It was also rather confusing as I didn’t know how these beings got on the moon past the seal towards her.

Morpheus whined, clearly upset by the outburst. He dove back into Jason’s shadow, vanishing from sight.

Jason, did not look pleased with this. “I’m going to avoid getting mad, because it seems you don’t understand how things work. We are not from your universe, we’re from another one. A very different Equestria from yours. In mine, Luna and Nightmare Moon became two separate people. Now, apologize.”

My mind came to a halt at this explanation and I sighed visibly in relief. For a mere moment I thought I failed in my task to serve the Princess again. Just to be a complete failure in the one true ambition, the one goal I yearn for. It was truly a horrifying thought. But this. I could deal with this. True, it still didn’t feel right for other Princesses of the Night to just up and marry some beings I’m not aware of, but it was manageable. And besides, if I would concentrate on the other Luna’s out there, and how Jason talked there seemed to be quite a lot of them, then I would never help the Luna I have served so fervently to reach the top.

I also then noticed the quivering shadow, making me realize that I must have frightened this Morpheus being. Normally I wouldn’t care much for the comfort of a foal, but this was the foal of another Luna in a way. Another being worthy of my respect.

With that I started to stand on my hindlegs and bowed with what could only be described as the classical Fenrich bow. Or at least that was the way I always called it back then I was in my human form. In that time I didn’t really understand the meaning of the gesture quite as well as I do now. It is not only a sign of my unyielding loyalty to her, but also of my respect for the Mistress of the Night. But now it will serve as a sign of apology.

...Not to mention that it actually looked quite silly for a wolf to bow like that. But I did so regardless with a flourish of my furry paw.

“My deepest apologies, Prince Morpheus. I was simply overwhelmed by this information and didn’t know how to handle it. Just tell me with what I can make it up to you and I will. After all: All is for my Princess. Or Prince now as you are a foal of the glorious Night Princess.”

Morpheus cautiously stepped out, eyeing me closely. “It’s okay but... mama isn’t a princess.”

That actually made me stumble back on my paws in shock. “H-How?” I asked tentatively, before I had an epiphany and understood the situation, “It is Celestia, isn’t it? She stripped her sister of her title and now rules over the lands in your dimension on her own. This has to be rectified! Just give me the signal Prince, and I will gather my best troops for a coup to let your mother sit on her rightful throne once more in all of her glory!”

Jason face palmed, an aggravated sigh escaping his lips. “Were you not paying attention when I said that Luna and Nightmare are two separate people now? Luna still rules alongside Celestia in Canterlot, and is one of our Equestria’s heptarchy. Nightmare has the disposition of Fluttershy, and lives quietly in Ponyville.”

“That is… A world with two glorious Night Princesses? I honestly wish I could live in such a simply divine place! Nightmare Moon in this dimension is Princess Luna’s Overload. It is her stronger form she can activate after the drinking of blood, like my own Overload with moonlight. Sadly the Sun Witch forbid her from drinking blood, limiting her strength to what is now before you.”

Jason gazed at the princess, scratching his cheek. “Yeah... I’d be careful with that kinda thing. In most universes, Nightmare Moon is a horrible tyrant.”

I couldn’t help but scoff, “A horrible tyrant? I can understand that her strict nature in that chapter of her life might not be seen all that positive, but her reign did never even come to fruition in the end. We...I failed as Celestia simply used her Elements of Harmony to deprive the ponies of Eternal Night and cheat her way to victory.”

Jason pinched the bridge of his nose. “You’re being too narrow minded here. Your Nightmare Moon was obviously an exception, not the rule.” He fixed me a look. “That, or, you're being blinded by faith.”

“The Princess saved my life. Maybe I have faith in her, but I can most certainly say that her form hasn’t altered her way of thinking back then. We had our reasons for our decisions back then, believe me. And I am well aware that our actions are seen as pretty villainous in this time. But Celestia’s actions from that time are seen as equally villainous to the neighbouring country we fled to. It’s all a question of perspective sometimes. The winner dictates history after all.”

“Look, I’m not getting into this debate.” Jason put his hands up. “Let's just drop it and move on.”

“I can agree on that. It were dark times. Times I don’t like to think back on, I said with a small shiver as the Princess laid a comforting hand on my back.

“So,” Bartz spoke up, fluffing his wings. “Can we get some food?” Jason rolled his eyes, slapping the smaller man upside his head.

“If the young Prince wants some, who are we to deny a guest?” I said and Luna agreed with a nod of her head as her eyes lit up.

“We hath planned to invite thee all for a most delightful lunch!”

Morpheus smiled up at her. “We would like that, aunt Luna.”

The Princess clapped her hands together in a delighted gesture, “I think Sugarcube Corner might be the best choic-”

But I interrupted her as I stepped forward and stood on my hindpaws.

“Allow me Princess, but I have a better idea.” She nodded and signaled me to go on, “If you would all allow then I would propose we dine in the newly transported castle. The kitchen is probably already ready.”

The Princesses face paled instantly as she hesitantly asked, “T-Thou doth not mean…”

I nodded as I sat down and stuck my chest out proudly, “I most certainly do! It is time for this old dog to pamper all the young Princes, the Princess, and even you Jason with my culinary abilities in the demon cuisine! I take it you are surely interested in tasting this for you completely new culinary direction? It will be a real feast!”

I started to look at the three of them expectantly, while I still could see Luna mouthing ‘No’, out of the corner of my eyes while shaking her head furiously. This deeply unprincesslike and childish behaviour of hers made me roll my eyes. Especially considering that I was an expert in the demon cuisine.

Jason as well as his two companions looked between me and Luna with what ranged from a perplexed to an uncertain look at the prospect of eating a meal prepared by me.

“I think we pass,” Jason finally said. But I was of course having none of it!

“Oh, I insist! See it as a reward for a job well done. Not to mention that it is healthy. Surely the most appropriate meal to nurture two young Prince’s on their way to rule a kingdom! Or maybe even their entire universe!” I said before offering them an escort to the newly placed castle.

Bartz simply shrugged. “That's more of Jason’s thing. He rules three of the realms any way.”

“May that as it be, but Princes still do need a healthy diet. And with your parents absent I feel the obligation to take over that part. I was serving Luna for quite some time after all.”

Bartz frowned. “Please don’t treat me like a child. I may be young, but I’m only a year away from being an adult.”

“Don’t worry, young Prince. I most certainly am not treating you in such a degrading way. I’m merely worried about your sustenance. It is something I even worry over Princess Luna, and she is quite mature...most of the time.”

The Princess shot me a pouty look as she crossed her arms, “I’m always mature.”

A hearty giggle alerted us to another presence and I noticed Aurora approaching us.

“Good to see you guys are joking around and having a good time while I’m working my flank off.”

“Is there a reason you are here, Captain?” I asked with an annoyed raised brow.

“I just wanted to inform you that we have set up the core departments and are making marvelous progress here on the front. Maybe you and the Princess want to inspect our work? Just in case you have any ideas or want something changed.”

I mulled this over for but a moment before I nodded and turned to my guests.

“What do you say? Are you fine with an inspection and tour through the castle first before I cook up some delicious demon cuisine for you?”

“Ooh! Sounds fun! I’m in!” Pinkie said suddenly popping in between us. Fluttershy also poked her head out behind Pinkie’s back.

I had already completely forgotten about these two in the heat of the argument.

A sigh escaped my lips. “Fine. So it seems like our tour group just grew. We better get on with the program before anything else unexpected happens.”

After receiving a row of nods, some more enthusiastic than others (I’m looking at you Pinkie Pie), I escorted them forwards towards the castle.

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Four

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Five

Author's Note

I'm sorry that it took so long. I pretty much was procrastinating this for a long time. Always finding some excuses like concentrating on my studies, exams or vacation. Well, studies are important, but of course I still had enough time to actually work on it.

Anyway, I will try to use more of my time for writing now, so that we can continue on with the story and finish this episode soon! :yay:

I also had trouble to find a good part where to split this chapter in two. So you get a long chapter this time. :twilightsheepish: Maybe I will split it in two another time.

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Five

After we have met Rose, we were led to the next station on our tour. We were in the same big room as we walked around the diamond Jason had created and neared a large archway, so it was a rather short walk. Said archway led to a room. Medical equipment, medicine cabinets, surgery tables, with things like bone saws, syringes and pills. The room was brightly lit and was an immaculate white. It was the true allegory of sterile.

And in all that stood a woman. She was a bit above average height and possessed a rather voluptuous body with a most generous bust size which ranged from about E to F. A pair of round glasses was on her muzzle and her body was looking like it was sewn together. Her fur was a sickly blue, while she had a long dark red mane, as well as a mismatched pair of wings and horn, giving her an almost Alicornlike appearance. The wings were both white, just as the horn. She was clothed in a sewn together doctors scrubs, with a thick dark red sweater and black pants beneath her scrubs. She was a truly bizarre creature.

“Welcome to the Equestrian Hospital,” the mare simply greeted with a friendly as well as slightly shy smile, ignoring the worried look Fluttershy was shooting at her.

Jason raised his eyebrow, looking her over. “I’m getting Midnight Sparkle flashbacks here...”

“She’s like Frankenstein,” Morpheus spoke up, gazing up at her.

“Quite the good pair of eyes young Prince, as to be expected,” I praised him, “This is interestingly enough even her name. She is Dr. Franzine Stein, leading head of the medical department.”

Dr. Stein nodded with a smile as she said softly, “Yes, I’m responsible for your health. So if any of you is feeling not well, like a missing limb, or a large gash, I can fix you up.”

A sigh escaped my lips, “Unfortunately you might not see it at first, but Dr. Stein has some major flaws in her character as well.”

“I wouldn’t say flaw…” Dr. Stein tried to weakly protest, but I wouldn’t have any of it.

“Just die,” I said to her coldly and she reeled back as if struck.

I could already feel the rather aghast and surprised looks on me, but I kept my gaze at Stein, who was quivering in place with her head held low.

Fluttershy was immediately at her side, trying to comfort her and sending me a rather fierce glare for a moment, making me shudder, before turning back to Dr. Stein. Some sound then started to emanate from her, making Fluttershy listen to her closer as the sound got louder. She first thought it to be the noises of crying, but soon could recognize it as something different...

“Kukukukukuku,” Dr. Stein got louder and loud until she cackled madly, as a delightful smile spread across her face and she blushed a deep shade of red while her arms were wrapped around her chest, “Oh Fenrich! You are always so hard to me!”

I then turned to the others, “See what I mean? Strong masochistic tendencies.”

“Weird.” Jason shrugged.

“You learn to put up with her. Especially since she is the best demon around for the job of this medical station. I once saw her sew a turtle together in ten seconds flat. And she was slobbering all over the turtles intestines while doing it in the delirious masochistic trance she always gets during her work as she imagined herself in the turtles place.”

“You realize there's a kid here right?” Bartz asked, having covered Morpheus’s ears.

I simply shrugged it off, “I have heard worse in childs stories like Hänsel & Gretel, or in the few cartoons I saw in my childhood. Or even the Nightmare tales of the Princess gobbling foals up. A turtle seems to fit right in with that in comparison. And Morpheus as the son of Nightmare Moon I imagine to be quite brave, considering the being that he calls mother is of a rather fearful appearance for other children.”

“She also has as much backbone as Fluttershy,” Bartz reminded. “So, that was never an issue.”

“True,” I said, before I noticed Fluttershy getting interested in the conversation.

“Turtle?” she asked with interest, making me nod in remembrance.

“Yes. Said turtle was ripped apart by some wolves. You could even see the beating heart as it was all turned inside out. But she still managed to save that turtles life and even kept her as a pet. Like I said, she does have quite the admirable abilities, despite her less than admirable attitude.”

Franzine nodded fervently as she took the took said turtle from behind one of the curtains of a wall of lined beds and set her on her shoulder. It had the same scars like her, but still looked quite healthy.

“This is Rippie, the ripped apart turtle!” she rather happily exclaimed.

“It’s so cute!” Fluttershy cooed, as she got right next to it, petting the reptile.

“Hi Rippie,” Morpheus waved cheerily, and the turtle shot him a smile as it jumped down in front of her. She went back into her shell on impact and quickly got out to walk rather fast towards Morpheus to nuzzle his leg.

“I upgraded Rippie as I sewed her back together,” Franzine said with a fond smile as she reminisced it, which led to her softly blushing again, “It was a beautiful day for me. Especially since Fenrich found me back then and forced me to come with him to do labor for him. Since then I always get to treat the worst and most fatal of injuries.”

“We don’t really rely on surgeon's any more,” Bartz begin, looking around the room. “Since Jay introduced healing spells, we only need them for corrective surgeries.”

“Franzine is well-trained in the use of spells like Omega Heal as well, but even such spells that summon gods here in this world have their limits. The spells aid the body by increasing their natural healing capabilities with unnatural speed one could say. Surgeries are still needed for conditions, and more complicated injuries that the body alone can’t take care of. Though Omega Heal can more than just heal, for the most critical of conditions you can not only summon the healing god for a simple spell, but also to aid in the healing process during surgery as well. Franzine here is rather good friends with her. And did you know that said Disgaea 4 Omega spell gods are anime characters?”

Jason shrugged his shoulders. “I never played. Wasn’t my thing. If I needed wacky Japanese rpgs, I’d just play Persona or Final Fantasy 5.”

I could only nod in agreement, “Yes, those are some good titles as well. If I’m honest, I still miss them a little. Though this life here has quite a few advantages. Alone the strength I gained, or the ambitions I set for myself were making it well worth it for me.”

“So... what are we doing now?”

I pondered this with a paw to my chin, “Well, after meeting with the Castle Healer, it is now time for the Gate Keeper. This would help us establish a connection between our worlds. Something I’m sure Rose would like. Not to mention that it can also be used from our side to send an item out as an anchor to maybe gain new allies.”

“Ah well, I could do that for ya,” Jason offered. “The portal thing at least. We have some experience with it.”

“That’s good to hear. Though you should also be clear on the fact that we are talking about demon portals. I’m not sure how close our demonic magic is to the portals you have. Though, they are quite simple for the most part and easily enough to explain. The main focus on such portals are anchors. For it to really work a magical signature has to be used on the point the portal should lead. Your token might be perfect for the connection to your world for example. It is important to have such an anchor. It has only to be placed correctly. I assume if we use your token now it would lead us to the point the portal opened in your world when you came here.”

Jason rolled his eyes. “Okay, that's way to overly complicated. Just build a quartz arch and we’ll have Rainbow blast through it.”

“I personally would prefer to stay with the demon portals, since we have people here that are experienced with them. The Gate Keeper will surely help us in our endeavors and set up a connection to your home dimension if I give him the token and tell him to analyze the magical signature. I bet he could even manage to combine our both portal magics and connect with your portal with some work.”

“I don’t think that would be an idea. Bifrost doesn’t really need any arguments.”

“When we are at an impasse, since I don’t like the idea of having every displaced crossing through a portal we have no working knowledge of.”

At that exact moment the Princess stepped in, “How about a compromise then? Thou will create this quartz portal to thine world, while all the other displaced, we believe was the term, will be connected with the demonic portal.”

Jason nodded. “Works for me. Less hassle on my end.”

“I can also agree on this. It seems like a good solution. The rest we will figure out together with the Gate Keeper. Aurora lead the way.”

Aurora saluted, “Aye! Then let’s go!”

With that we marched forward. The Gate Keeper would be near so it was at least something that can be taken care of rather quickly. At least I hope it would go as quickly as with Franzine. But one does never know, so I’m not going to jinx it.

We then turned a corner, and could from there on already see the light of a blue and slightly white swirling portal where we would meet up with the Gate Keeper. However, what we witnessed was more than any of us bargained for.

We all saw a wood golem that was wearing… Bikini Armor?

Our group stopped and all was silent for a moment.

“Well… she did say a wood golem could fit it on with the size enchantment,” Aurora commented with obvious mirth in her voice.

I however was of course in a state of panic.

“Don’t look, Prince Morpheus!” I said while standing on both my hindpaws and concealing with outstretched paws his view of this truly traumatizing sight.

Jason stared for a while, before shrugging. “Weird just sorta happens. It’s fine.”

“It most certainly is not fine! Such is a sight no young prince should ever have to endure!” I then pondered for a moment, “Now that I think about it, it is a sight no one should have to endure, besides the Sun Witch maybe. She can endure it.”

“I have to agree here with fluffy,” Aurora intercepted as she pointed an accusing finger at the Gate Keeper, “You are always complaining when I decide to wear a short skirt, but you yourself suddenly don such a bikini? What exactly is fair about this?!”

The offended Gate Keeper stepped a step back.

“Well, I never! As a true noble demon like me I can’t just let another being live in poverty so I had to buy it! And as a noble mare of your status it is of course required of you to wear something appropriate!”

At the mention of Aurora being a noble mare a batpony started to chuckle, drawing the ire of her as she glared at him and he quickly walked away. She then turned her glare back to the Gate Keeper. But before this childish argument could go on I decided to step in with a question I just had to ask.

“Say, how much did you pay for this Bikini Armor?”

The Gate Keeper stuck its wooden muscular chest out, “100,000 bits! Rose first wanted to give me a discount and have 90,000 bits for it, but I couldn’t let that stand! If the poor thing needs money, then I shall pay the full price and with that obliterate her poverty! It’s something a true noble demon would do!”

“I understand,” I said before looking over to Jason again, “And you are still sure you can handle Rose? Like you can see she is… a rather peculiar businesswoman.”

Jason looked rather amused. “I have a draconequus living in my head, I can handle an eccentric businesswoman.”

I shrugged, “I’m just making sure. But I suppose we probably should get back to the business at hand. I believe you remember this demon Princess.”

The Princess walked forward with a smile, “Indeed. Tis a great pleasure to see thou once again after such a long time.”

The Gate Keeper just smiled, “I can certainly say it is a pleasure to meet such a noble Princess once again,” he then took notice of Jason, “And what do we have here? Another lycanthrope? Which joy! I certainly am glad that Fenrich found a relative! He is avoiding company far too often, so it is a true relieve you found each other!”

“Sorry, but, I’m actually a jotunn. I’m just not old enough to be huge yet.”

“Jotunn? I haven’t heard of that kind of demon before. Though from your looks I would assume it is rather close to Fenrich Mister… We skipped introductions, didn’t we? Ah, how rude of me! Allow me to introduce myself,” he said with a polite bow, “My name is Sir Alexander Woods. Gentletree, Justice Warrior, member of the elite troop the Lunar Demons and my newest occupation Gate Keeper and Guardian of this very castle.”

“Alexander here was once a demon rebel,“ I added, “He was fighting for equal treatment of all demon races amongst the ponies. But after we beat him the Princess offered him in her overwhelming kindness a place among her troops so that he could change the system from within and create a paradise as he likes to call it for all noble beings alike. We found him to be rather useful when it came to fights, but also anchoring portal destinations and portal maintenance.”

“Nice to meet you.” Jason held his hand out. “But no, Jotun aren’t demons. We’re giants, and the first race to exist in some places.”

“Giants you say? Very interesting. The way we wood golems tower over the ponies we got called that too sometimes. Not to mention that my kind was also equally one of the first demons to exist back in the Netherworld where I hailed from. Never would I have thought back in my youth that I would once find myself in a different place like this. But,” he said before he flexed his wooden muscles, “It certainly didn’t harm my workout and goals! I simply had to adjust and this world is in dire need of some forward thinking demons.”

“Right.” Jason nodded. “Bet your ancestors body wasn’t used to create seven full universes.”

“Maybe not. But it doesn’t matter what you can create. It only matters what you do with the abilities that are in your skillset. No matter how small the change. A change is a change and we all should try to contribute to it.”

Jason rubbed the back of his neck. “Er, Ymir didn’t make them. He was murdered in his sleep and three guys created everything from his body.”

“Your world certainly sounds interesting. I can also recall quite a few tragedies from my own world. We for example were ruled by the Tyrant Overlord Baal. A title that was not just for show. Back then Baal tried to take over all of Equus with a portal that led from our Netherworld to here. That is also how I ended up here. All races were really lucky that Baal was stopped by a brave mare and sealed away. Sadly she didn’t survive said heroic deed,” Alexander said with his head lowered, clearly reminiscing the past. Not that I could take part in it, considering my own arrival occurred later.

“Yeah,” Jason scoffed bitterly, “I know something about tyrants.”

I took this moment to step in, seeing as we were getting rather off-track.

“Tyrants are something that occur far too often, though I suppose that we should get back to why we came here.”

“That’s good and all Fenrich, but where is the timid one? I somehow lost sight of her,” Aurora suddenly asked as she looked around. I of course instinctively took a sniff. After locating her scent I turned my head towards Alexander. Fluttershy was already all over him, a child-like grin on her face that seemed uncharacteristic for the mare.

“I always wanted to meet a tree like you!” she let out a squee as she started touching his bark-like arms, making Alexander’s chest puff out with pride as he started to flex his muscles for her, as no sight of his previous sadness could be detected.

“I’m quite honored to hear this from a maiden such as you! Feel free to examine me all you want!” he said in a booming voice as he continued to strike pose after pose making Fluttershy let out a big ‘oh’ of wonder.

I then noticed Pinkie flexing her muscles in a silly fashion alongside him, making Alexander laugh heartily.

“That’s the spirit!” he cheered, while I facepalmed with my paw.

After a sigh escaped my lips I tried to bring everything back on track yet again, “We probably should slowly start to work on the portals now. I would say that we try to get your portal set first,” I mentioned as I turned to look at Jason who was eyeing the spectacle in amusement together with the two young Princes, “First off we should determine exactly where to put it…”

“It should probably get it’s own exclusive area,” Jason suggested.

I nodded, “That logic is sound. Now where to-” I started to say but was rudely interrupted.

“Hold your horses! I know exactly where to put it!” a feminine voice exclaimed. As I turned I saw it to be none other than Rose. She stood there excited with a mischievous glint in her eyes. A glint I didn’t like.

“You do?” I asked with a raised eyebrow as she happily nodded at me.

“Yes!” She said before leaping in front of Jason with a bright smile, ”Follow me!”

She then proceeded to grab his hand and pull the poor sap along. The rest of us quickly followed this mare who all too eagerly let Jason back to where she set up shop. She then proceeded to lead him behind the counter and through the door that was placed there. It let us through a storage room that then again led us to a rather luxurious looking bedroom.

Said room had a four poster bed. which was made out of pure gold and had rubies embedded in it. Red silk sheets adorned said bed. An expensive looking desk, wardrobe, two bookshelves and a mirror could also be seen. All of these furniture made of pure gold and decorated with gems. An ornate looking door led probably to an equally luxurious bathroom I would guess. A chandelier made out of gold and rubies also dangled from the ceiling.

It was quite clear who this room belonged to.

“Wait… Are you trying to get this portal of Jason’s world set up in your bedroom?” I asked Rose rather incredulous.

“...Maybe?” she said slightly sheepish, “I mean, not every demon around here should have access to it! I could be the Gate Keeper! Old Alex here has enough to do with one portal, so why should he guard two? I am fairly strong after all and could easily take this job!”

“Only that you never would volunteer to work without getting paid. You always say that you are not a charity organization, so I assume your motives are far less noble,” I pointed out, making her pout as she turned her face away and crossed her arms.

“Fine then. So what? I’m the one who will mainly use the portal anyway. So why do you care?” she said to me with a glare, before she looked over to Jason with big hopeful eyes, “You don’t mind, do you?”

Jason shrugged. “I mean, it’s fine. If you think your room can survive a sonic rainboom.”

“YES!” Rose fistbumped the air in thriumph before turning to him, “And don’t worry about my room, I have a geo block with ‘Invincible’ effect. It not only makes people invincible to any and all attacks, but also objects. I just have to set it down in here and activate the integrated ground panels and woosh! Bam! Kazaam! Indestructible room!” she said while striking a pose with one hand on her hip, while her other was giving him a thumbs up and a winning smile.

“Right.” Jason nodded, clearly not understanding what she was talking about. “First, we need a quartz arch.”

“Ooh! I have a fresh delivery of quartz right here back in the storage room if that helps!” Rose said all too eagerly, quite happy to provide the portal that would connect their dimensions.

She quickly run out and jumped on one of the shelves she remembered the quartz being held. She then took the crate and with a strength you normally wouldn’t expect from such a flat-, uh, fragile looking thestral lifted it directly into the room before setting it down in front of Jason.

“I hope that is enough,” she said with a proud smile.

Jason looked at the crate, pulling a sword hilt from his pocket. He flicked his wrist, the blade extending into a long sword.

Rose all too eagerly watched him, and Alexander also was quite interested in gaining new knowledge of portals. I of course also kept an eye on him together with Luna. One might never know after all. Maybe I could learn a new Special with careful observation. Then again, I’m more into fist-type weapons, so a sword move might not be all too interesting for me.

Of course the most interesting thing about his blade was still the magic it gave off. It saturated the air thickly with it. Alexander seemed to bathe into said saturation, as he absorbed slight amounts naturally through his body.

A body which started to grow leaves frantically as well as bark as his mass seemed to grow from the magical intake.

“Omnitrix, XLR-8.” Jason transformed into a vaguely raptor shaped creature, clad in a black and white jumpsuit. He became a blur, zipping around the quartz, positioning and sculpting it into shape.

The Princess and I could certainly appreciate the high SPD he showed, considering it was a stat we ourselves had rather leveled. Rose herself was giddily clapping her hands together at this spectacle, a clear excitement over his versatile abilities as she saw him finish the arc that would connect our both worlds.

Jason skidded to a stop, reverting back to normal. He tapped at his watch, making a screen appear over it. “Hey, Dash, you there?”

A few beats passed before the mare in question responded. “Whaddya want, Jay?”

Rose eagerly stepped forward wrapping her hand around the device and inspecting it, “Eureka! That’s interesting,” she said excitedly, before straightening out and gaining a formal composure before talking into the device, “Aye, are you the headmare? I want to formally introduce myself. I’m Rosen Queen, short Rose. And I’m an official applicant for your and Jason’s herd!”

After she said that her cheeks started glowing with a blush as she made a step back giggling like a schoolgirl with a crush and took said cheeks in her hands rubbing them excitedly, “Gyah! I can’t believe I just did it! I applied for a herd!”

Dash was silent before speaking up again. “You’ve been gone for like five minutes, Jay.”

Jason rubbed his neck. “Yeah well, just get your ass over here will ya?”

“A-A MEETING?!” Rose said in a stuttering panic, “Oh! I n-need something nice to wear,” she said rushing to her dresser and opening it, revealing an assortment of dresses, “Too casual,” she said discarding them, before looking at another, “Is that too formal?” she asked to one in particular as she was holding a long red gown in her hands. She suddenly seemed a tad nervous among her excitement.

“Fine, fine,” Dash sighed. “I’ll be over.”

Jason closed the screen, petting his hand on Rose’s shoulder. “Dash isn’t in my herd, Rose.”

Rose instantly stopped, “She isn’t?”

Jason shook his head.

Rose herself tossed her arms in the air, “By Luna’s teats! And here I thought I finally had applied to a herd!”

She then deflated, her cheeks puffing out in a cute pout.

“Relax.” Jason pet her head. “It’ll be fine.”

Rose looked at him hopefully, “You think so?”

“I do,” he said rubbing her head some more reassuringly and making the mare smile.

With a quick happy pounce forward she wrapped her arms around Jason while cuddling her head into his chest.

“That’s all good and well, but don’t we need to prepare for the arrival of this mare?” I questioned.

Rose perked instantly up and let go of Jason, “Right! I need to secure my room for the explosion!”

The thestral mare quickly stepped to her bed before leaning down and pulling a lever. Instantly the ground started to glow with golden geo panels, encompassing the whole room as well as a golden geo block that also showed up from under her bed.

She then summoned her bow before aiming it directly at me…

Jason frowned, looking between us. “What's with the arrow?”

Rose instantly stopped her tomfoolery as she flinched a bit at his disapproving look, “I-I just wanted to test the Invincible effect really quick,” she said a bit sheepishly, “I mean, the effect is on if you believe the menu, but I just wanted to make sure. And if anything went wrong Franzine would have been ecstatic. So...win win?” she asked looking up at Jason a bit nervously.

Jason leaned on the wall. “Most people don’t try to kill their friends.”

Rose took a step back, looking as if she was just hit, “But we were just having a scuffle! Demons always scuffle with axes, spears and the like! We do it all the time! I mean as demons we are a lot more resilient than the average pony! He couldn’t die from such a simple arrow! Fainting at most!”

Jason out his hands up. “Sorry, didn’t mean to insult you.”

Rose rubbed the back of her head sheepishly, “Aye. I’m sorry too,” she said while both her hands were now wringing her dress, “I just panicked a bit now. You know, being nervous about this whole dating shebang? Being accused of attempted murder could have put a damper on that chance of romance in my life,” she said the last bit with a slightly amused smile.

Jason rolled his eyes. “You really need to relax. Like seriously.”

“Yeah, yeah. I know,” she said with a small smile, before her eyes lit up and she snipped her fingers, “Eureka! Maybe I should simply channel my inner businesswoman for this! I mean, I am never nervous during business deals! I’m a genius!” she exclaimed haughtily as she brushed one of her pigtails with the back of her hand in a princess-like manner. Smugness was positively radiating off from her.

“Then let’s start the first step of our business deal!” she said while pointing to the quartz portal enthusiastically.

“Just waiting on Dash,” Jason reminded.

A loud boom filled the air as a speeding object ripped a hole in reality. The quartz glowed, entrapping the portal inside of it. Dash hovered in the air, giving us a good look at her. Like Morpheous, she was quadrupedal, with wings as large as Luna’s. I also noted that most of her forelegs had been replaced by mechanical griffon talons.

It was a sight I certainly couldn’t help but comment.

“You certainly look stronger than your counterpart here,” I noted in interest.

Sure, her being a quadruped was also quite a noticeable difference, but the fighting power was even more so. I could definitely tell that she would at least hold herself in a fight. Other than the version here.

“Huh...” Dash looked up at Luna. “This is one of those ‘anthro’ places? That's just weird.”

I harrumphed at how she disrespected the Princess of the Night, “I could say the same to you. Though it seems you do have more in common with your counterpart then I thought as you are just as annoying.”

Dash laughed, rolling her eyes. “For your information, wolfie, the default for Equestria is four hooves.”

“I am a demon. My default is that the stronger party is always right. That is why I’m standing on the side of her majesty Princess Luna. She is strong in more ways than one.”

An annoyed sigh escaped Dash. “Whatever you say. Anyway, I’m gonna head back, Jay. You have fun with your new weirdo friends.” Dash said dismissively as she tried to fly back, only to have an anthro thestral mare blocking her way and eyeing her curiously. Especially her claws.

She quickly took one of the claws in her hand, studying the design and already making plans for a fist-type weapon just after this image.

“This might work out,” she muttered as she poked and prodded said appendages.

“Stop that!” Dash swatted at her hands. “These aren’t so you can poke at them!”

Rose huffed, “You almost sound like Jason as I inspected his hair. Besides, a mare like me certainly likes her toys, so why can’t she inspect the toys of others! I’m a businesswoman and need to seize the opportunity that is given to me!” she said with confidence.

Dash was about to retort, before Rose cut in again a bit sheepishly, “Anyway. I honestly...how can I say this… I’m interested in some information. Can you tell me a bit about Jason’s leadmare? I need to prepare. I mean, a good businesswoman doesn’t go into a deal without all the information.”

“Leadmare?” Dash tilted her head. “That's... not really a thing where we’re from.”

Rose blinked, “So no dominant female partner that is reigning supreme? Hm… I’m not sure if this will make it easier or not. I mean, if there was a leadmare, I could have simply focused on her more, but now? Should I focus to get all the mares approval in equal parts?” she mused.

Dash shrugged. “I mean, you could just go talk to them. Rarity and Chrysalis aren’t that bad.”

“I could,” Rose said with a thinking face, “I probably will have to rethink my strategy to complete this business deal of love.”

She nodded determined to herself, “Thanks for the advice!” she said, and was just about to say her goodbyes when her eyes twinkled mischievously and she wrapped an arm around Dash’s shoulder.

“Oh Dash. I just know what I can to repay such a pal like you! I mean, I couldn’t help but notice that you poor gal can’t even afford proper clothing, not to mention armor! So I have a rather striking business deal just for you! Fresh armor! Delivered just this morning. And it would suit you so well~”

Dash stared at her, before busting out laughing. She pulled away, clutching her sides.

Rose, being the experienced businesswoman she was simply kept her cool, as she waited for her customer to calm down. After all a happy customer was a paying customer!

“Oh that's rich!” Dash calmed herself, wearing a big smile. “The only clothes I ever wear are for big stuff.”

Rose nodded approvingly, “Oh, I can see that! You certainly are the adventurous type! And clothes would only wear you down. However, a light set of armor would not only enhance your heroic performance, but also can help protect you when you really need it. Don’t say anything, I know you are thinking that you don’t need the protection. But your friends might need it. To protect the ones you hold dear you need to be well equipped! And like I said, wouldn’t you like to enhance your look further? These claws are simply awesome, but just think about how you could get even more awesome with some light armor?”

“Eh, I already got armor,” Dash replied. “Dwarven made too, so ya know it’s gonna last for like, ever.”

“It’s armor from another dimension. From a demon company no less. I don’t think the awesomeness factor of dwarves stands a candle against it. Besides Jason here bought a set too. So, if it is good enough for Jason, than it is something that is good enough for you. A girl needs to pamper herself every now and then, don’t you think?”

Dash stared at her. “You realize that armor is made out of Fenrir’s fangs and the world serpents scales right?”

Rose grinned mischievously, “You realize you shouldn’t underestimate a demoness that has set herself a goal, right?”

She then run back outside to come back with a crate and slamming it down directly in front of her.

“And now, prepare to be awed! For this will be your new favorite armor! BIKINI ARMOR!” she jovially and loudly exclaimed before showing said bikini armor off to the cyan pegasus.

Dash looked at it, tilting her head. “The hells a bikini?”

That actually made Rose, reel. But just a tad, “Normally it is worn during bathing activities at the beach. It covers both private areas. You see here, these panties like armor?” she asked rhetorically, “I mean you have at least panties I hope. If not, let me tell you, you would probably be a real trendsetter. And the other part is for your breasts. I mean, you have ones do you?” she asked once again before she simply decided to crouch down and look for them under her barrel instead, “Yup, there they are.”

“Oi!” Dash growled, slapping Rose across the face. “Don’t ogle my teats you freakin’ weirdo!”

Rose rubbed her cheeks a bit before huffing, “Sheesh! It’s not my fault you let them hang around freely for everyone to ogle! That is why you should cover them to remain decent! That is why you could use the bikini armor!” she said in a miffed tone of voice as she started to pout at her in earnest.

“How about you respect my personal space!?”

“I didn’t know perverts like you have personal space! Just clothe yourself decently with my armor!” Rose screamed back as she lost her patience with her.

“Ponies don’t wear clothes!” Dash snapped, getting in her face.

“I AM A PONY! Perverts don’t wear clothes!” she said equally heated getting in her face as well.

Both their foreheads were pressed tightly against each other and one could swear that sparks were coming from their gazes as both were glaring at each other with full force.

“Alright.” Jason grabbed Dash’s tail, yanking her back. “Knock it off. For your information Rose, four legged ponies don’t normally wear clothes. Those that do are the exception. They normally only wear them for important events.”

I myself and Luna were also slowly getting Rose away from Dash.

Rose herself was still burning with anger at the cyan pegasus, but at least tried to somehow contain it.

“Fine! If you excuse me, I will go on a killing spree in the Item World,” she said offhandedly before correcting herself, “Well, not really killing considering the demons there are not alive but only husks, but you get what I mean.”

She then stomped out of the room. Though if one only looked near enough they could see an undertone of pain in her eyes.

I couldn’t help but sigh at this, “She certainly can be quite...passionate,” I commented, “Though I honestly just assume you said something that has rubbed her the wrong way. Seeing as you seem to be fond of calling new acquaintances weirdos and such I don’t imagine you make new allies too often. No offense of course.”

Jason clamped his hand over Dash’s mouth. “I think, what just happened was a culture clash. My ponies don’t wear clothes but, that doesn’t mean they like having their personal space violated like Rose just did.”

I hummed in thought, “True enough. The concept of walking around naked and still talking about personal space does seem quite alien. Even to someone like me.”

Jason shrugged, letting Dash go. “It’s just how things are.”

“Things certainly went quite interesting. Though I still am wondering about the claws, considering no one asked about them until now,” Alexander said, making us turn our head to him where we noticed...something.

It seems Alexander has grown twice his size and was now rather cramped in the room as the ceiling simply wasn’t high enough for him.

“Huh,” I stated, “Wonder why we didn’t notice that sooner.”

“Look.” Dash looked down at me. “If you want to ask about the claws, just ask. Don’t just stare at them.”

“Oh, excuse me my lady!” Alexander said while bowing, or at least trying to considering he was already bowing from the low ceiling, “I didn’t mean to stare. But yes. I certainly am always interested to learn something new or hear interesting stories.”

Dash looked at her claws, letting out a long sigh. “I lost my front hooves in the Forever Knight rebellion.”

“Doesn’t seem like such a bad trade considering you can grip better with claws,” I commented offhandedly before the Princess lightly smacked me at the back of my head.

“Excuse him,” she said sheepishly, “Fenrich isn’t the most… empathic being.”

Dash glared. “Do you want to hear the story or not?”

While Fenrich huffed, Luna gave Dash an apologetic smile, “Go ahead.”

“Right.” Dash landed, tapping a talon against the floor. “About seventeen years ago, Equestria was taken over by a bunch of assholes called the Forever Knights. They forced every non-pony to leave and... killed any of them that didn’t, including ponies that tried to protect them.”

“Excuse my interruption. But I’m wondering what exactly the Sun Witch-”

“Celestia,” corrected Luna with a roll of her eyes.

“-did during this severe time of need. As I’m understanding this there has to be a version of her as well, correct?”

Dash shook her head. “That... Bitch Blueblood,” Dash sneered with utter hate in her voice. “Betrayed us. Turned Luna to stone. The Forever King threatened to shatter her unless Celestia surrendered.”

I couldn’t help but growl fiercely. The thought about Luna being used in such a way… I don’t think I could live with the shame if something like that happened to her here.

“I certainly agree with your sentiment. I’m a schemer myself, but can still feel the bile rise in my throat just thinking about such a cheap and dirty trick!”

“We managed to get everyone free but...” she held her talons up. “The King was going to hurt Jay and I took the hit for him.”

My eyes widened slightly at that. A sacrifice she has made for him. It reminded me. Reminded me about how my life was saved by the Princess. How she would step in. Taking the hit for me. Shielding me. Despite how I at first betrayed her. And later then how my plan failed… She always took the hit. And then, as the Elements were going for her and I tried the same… I failed. It was a noticeable pang. And the Princess seemed to notice too as she all too subtly wrapped a wing around my wolfish form.

In any case I calmed quickly enough and couldn’t help but feel at least a tad respect for that mare. Despite her behavior she at least seemed reliable enough. Of course it made me wonder if that bragard counterpart of hers here was the same. But then again it was hard to tell with the different dimension this one came from. So I will have to simply wait in case the cyan mare on my side shows some usefulness like that as well.

“But, Jay and Twilight made this for me.” She flexed her talons. “Gilda really likes them, if you know what I mean.” Dash waggled her eyebrows.

I couldn’t help but groan, “Don’t. Just don’t remind me of her. It is hard enough that her father always tries to set me up with her. It actually makes me glad that I’m not in Griffonstone now. Griffonesses are way too forward and aggressive for my taste.”

Dash laughed. “Don’t talk to me about griffons. You don’t have to rule over them.”

I gave Dash my best deadpan, “In fact I’m the leader of the demon settlement there. So this settlement being in their land means I have plenty of interactions with them. Not to mention like I said that the leader of the griffons wants me to marry his daughter.”

Jason cleared his throat. “Our Griffonstone was in abject poverty and squalor for the last few hundred years. They lived in anarchy until I found the idol of borealis and gave it to Gilda, who became the new empress. From there, she talked with Celestia, and Griffonstone was absorbed into Equestria.”

“Luckily Griffonstone on this side did never fall to poverty. So I’m confident that we also don’t have to be ‘absorbed’ here. Though it really is interesting to see what would have happened if my demons and I didn’t take care of that thieving beast back then.”

Jason scratched his cheek. “Then, a year after that, Spike became dragonlord and the Dragonlands were absorbed...”

Now I couldn’t help but give Jason a deadpan stare, “So, do you plan on ‘absorbing’ ‘unintentionally’ every country in your world?”

Jason glared back at me. “Are you implying something?”

“Just noticing a pattern. Can you really blame me for making conclusions? It is not like I’m accusing you of warmongering to absorb countries.”

“Yeah... anyway.” Dash cleared her throat. “I’m gonna take off Jay, I promised Beowulf I’d go watch one of those air force shows with him.”

Jay nodded. “Have fun.”

Dash grinned, flying back through the portal, which closed behind her.

It made me rub my fluffy chin with my equally fluffy paw, “So. Anything we have to know when it comes to activating this portal?”

Jason shook his head. “Just pump magic into it, it’ll be fine.”

“That sounds just like with our portals, albeit we have different kinds of magic. Like Mana that can be used for the portal, or SP that is used for spells and other special moves,” I explained, before looking back over to Aurora, “I think it is time we got back to our tour.”

The mare nodded diligently, “Sure. The next stop are the training grounds. If you would follow me.”

It was just as we wanted to leave Rose’s room that we noticed the still rather largely grown Wood Golem. He certainly doesn’t fit through the door with that height.

Alexander simply waved us off, “Don’t worry. I will use a portal to get back to my post.”

An easy enough solution, I assume. It certainly won’t do if Alexander destroys the wall and gets into conflict with Rose. Of course he still needs to shrink back to navigate every part of the castle, but with how adept he is with mana I was sure he would find a way on his own.

After everything was done, we quickly got back to the large room, before walking down another hallway and to our next destination. Soon enough we then walked out into a large oval yard in the middle of the castle. Training equipment was already being placed around and lines were drawn in a track. It made me sigh wistfully as I reminisced past days. The Thestrals all around were doing a rather magnificent job as they set everything up. I eyed one punching bag (a real one and not the pony) thinking about training maybe later with it. I then also noticed Punching Bag (the pony) approaching. He looked happy with the progress.

“Everything is going well,” he said, “Progress is made and the training with the temporary equipment for the guard can immediately get started tomorrow. Not to mention the recruitments of new recruits for the guard if suitable candidates are to be found.”

“Very good,” I complimented with a nod of my head, making him smile proudly.

I then turned my head back to the training grounds and couldn’t help but smile, “I remember this place well and I will admit that I missed it. It was a real shame it fell into disrepair for so long,” I then eyed one of the punching bags, before slightly grinning to Punching Bag, “Though I also find the new tradition that developed of hanging you up as a punching bag also to be quite amusing.”

“Wait a freaking moment!” Aurora swore as she glared at Punching Bag, “I thought they wouldn’t do that anymore?!”

Punching Bag looked away shyly, “I-I’m just helping the others with their training…”

“Bull! And how often have I told you that you should come to me if some jerks do that with you! Seriously!” she frowned at Punching Bag before facepalming and sighing annoyedly.

I just shook my head at them, “Be that as it may, the geo effects for it still have to be put in place before we can start to use this area seriously. After that you two can still discuss if that tradition is either broken or not.”

The Princess perked up at that, “Ah. The ‘Invincible’ Geo Block we take it?”

I nodded, “Just like with Rose. Rather rare to get them by. But they are rather useful, don’t you agree?” I asked turning to Jason, “After all a punching bag that can’t be harmed no matter how hard you hit, or if you unleash an attack that would make the entire world tremble…or split in two. Then again, I don’t know how your training regime looks like, so I don’t know if you have an equivalent.”

“I don’t normally work out.” Jason shrugged. “When I had to, I did a lot of high gravity training.” He eyed the punching bag. “Side’s, that wouldn’t last long anyway.”

“Normally not. But like I said if it is combined with the ‘Invincible’ Effect of a geo block it can even survive the attack of the most strongest Overlord’s. But I guess this gaming system is probably new to you. So it might be a bit hard to grasp the different effects and the usage of said geo blocks. I probably might be troubled as well if I had to deal with your game mechanics.”

Jason rolled his eyes, taking a sword hilt from his pocket. With a flick of his wrist, he extended it into a full blade and proceeded to slice the punching bag apart.

“Oh well. Like I said. No ‘Invincible’ effect is on it now. It decreases all damage to zero points. So without it it’s of no surprise a blade can cut right through them. Though I certainly hope it will get done by tomorrow like Punching Bag suggested. It wouldn’t do for the Guard to erase one punching bag after another like that,” I stated as I neared another punching bag, before getting an idea, “Then again, your behavior is giving me an idea. I mean I can probably still already test the punching bags out. Sure, they are vulnerable without the block, but with my momentary form I probably, or sadly, won’t be able to damage them all too badly. Not to mention that I could use the exercise.”

With that said I jumped in the air and towards the back, using my front paws to give it some strong punches. The chain on top of the back rattled as it swung from my strong jabs. Well, strong in a sense compared to normal ponies, but rather weak compared to what I could usually do in my strong form.

I continued the assault on the poor unsuspecting punching bag. There is also the possibility that I was taking out a bit of my earlier frustration on it. What happened today was weighing down on me like lead, so it felt rather good to imagine a few disrespecting ponies instead of the punching bag.

Punch after punch landed heavily, before I finally threw my fluffy paw out for one final attack.

With one last mighty punch the chain broke and the punching bag rocketed off into the distance, before I heard a loud smack.

I heard some shocked gasps as my gaze followed the trajectory of the punching bag.

Back at the entrance to the yard stood none other than Celestia, which was followed by the mares Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Rarity. Though I only recognized the Sun Witch by her limbs and foul smell alone as now a punching bag rested over most of her body, specifically her face as her horn was impaled on the upper part of it.

An awkward silence stretched out as none of the present dared to say something.

Her eye twitched. I could tell that from her twitching body, despite the punching bag now adorning her muzzle.

...I couldn’t hold back a small chuckle.

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Six

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Seven

We just stepped into the dining room, seeing all people gathered here. Even the Gate Keeper, Shop Keeper and the Nurse. The room was quite lively to say the least.

The mood was...split.

“My name is Sir Alexander Woods, my pleasure!” I saw Alexander greet a familiar and pristine white-coated unicorn mare.

The hulking mass of trees then leaned down giving a courteous kiss to her hand.

“My! A real gentlepony!” Rarity swooned.

“Gentletree is the title I prefer Miss…?”

“Rarity, dear. Fabulous fashionista and designer extraordinaire.”

“Well, it is very nice to meet you Miss Rarity.”

While Rarity was getting along, as well as Pinkie did, or Fluttershy, others were a bit more...tense.

Twilight was keeping to the background.

Applejack and Rainbow Dash remained suspicious, eying the demons warily and Rose…

“Well, I let you know that I am a most prestigious mare!”

Well...she somehow got into an argument with Celestia, while Luna tried to keep the situation from escalating.

...Such a brave mare!

Luckily enough Rose noticed us arriving, or more specifically Jason, making her smile brightly as she stopped her aggressive course of actions, skipping over to greet him.

“Jason!” she exclaimed happily before stopping and getting a bit uncomfortable, “You, um. Well, back then with your friend…” she trailed off, her words failing her as she poked her fingers together.

Jason patted her head. “It’s fine, Rose.” He smiled, at her before slamming a fist on the table, freezing it solid. “All of you, shut the fuck up. I’m getting a little tired of the racism.”

While the rest of the group looked to him, Fluttershy visibly intimidated, Rose actually squee’d and rubbed her cheeks as she felt them heat up.

Celestia also turned to look at him before looking down to me, “Your friend is quite ill-mannered,” she started but was quickly cut off.

“I’m also Equestrian royalty, and I’ll speak as I damn well please, you hypocrite.” Jason glared back, eyeing the rest of the room. “That includes you two.” He pointed out Applejack and Rainbow Dash. “AJ, the Apples are supposed to help those in need, they don’t hate people for no reason.” He gave Dash a mock grin. “I bet you’re parents can give you a reward for being the best racist.”

While Rainbow sputtered, her words clearly failing her as she looked uncomfortable, Applejack had a deep thoughtful look on her face, before answering, “Just wary is all. He planned a coup thousand years ago and we fought ‘im and Nightmare not too long ago. So yer can’t expect us all ta be as trusting as Rares, Pinkie or Flutters.”

Celestia quickly cut in, “What Applejack rightly says is that we have reasons to not trust this one. I was wary as well. And as I felt a strong magical surge from Ponyville I came over to check up on my sister.”

“Oh please.” Jason rolled his eyes. “That’s just an excuse and you know it. Ya know, I bet you Princess Platinum said the same thing when the tribes united. Or maybe it was one of the other two. Way to keep the tensions going Celestia.” He gave a thumbs up. “Any excuse to justify hatred.”

“I lost my sister for a thousand years. I think I have the right to feel hate. But for now I am even going as far as giving him a chance, even while restricting his movement to this very town. Or do you really expect we simply start to be friends and get along from one moment to the other?”

Jason looked around before nodding. “Ya, that’s literally how the damn country was founded. Fire of Friendship ring any bells? The thing you guys reignite every year so the ghost horses don’t show up and turn everyone into icicles. I’m actually surprised they aren’t back yet.”

Celestia looked back at Jason for a moment, her eyes calculating, before looking back to me.

“Friendship never is easy. It wasn’t back then to times of Princess Platinum. But I acknowledge your words. They are not completely wrong. I think I will give this puppy a bit more of my trust by not restricting his movements completely.”

“You’ll also make a public apology for all those demons you massacred in the past,” Jason insisted, walking over to her. “Because, you’re about the worst version of Celestia I’ve met. And I know you’re better than that.”

“You are quite forward. But apologizing for the demons after a coup was tried against me is not a thing I can or will ever do. You might as well ask me to apologize to Fenrich.”

Jason leaned in closer, narrowing his eyes. “Ever consider, they were justified? Sic semper evello mortem tryannis.”

Celestia met his stare head on, not flinching back an inch, “Ever consider, I was justified? Or were you there and witnessed all the occurences back in the time. When my country was in great peril. With groups of demons and other bandits on the loose, pilfering villages. Or the diplomatic problems we encountered with other races?”

Before things escalated further Luna quickly stepped in between the two, her small form trying to stop this argument from going any further, “We think that tis quite enough. We all have our perspectives. But we came here to feast and not to fight, didst we not?”

Jason pulled back. “I know exactly why you hate demons, Celestia.” Jason tapped his head. “I know it all. What one guy did does not mean you can blame an entire race.” He leaned back in, whispering in her ear. “If you don’t shape up, I’ll make sure Twilight doesn’t get her wings.”

“Fine. I will be civil,” Celestia stated after she got over her surprise of his knowledge and was glaring back, before turning away from Jason and sitting down at the table.

Jason stepped away, waving his hand and melting the ice encasing the table.

The room was tense. At least it was until I coughed drawing all attention to me.

“If you would please sit down at the table. I will prepare lunch for you all meanwhile.”

Luckily they all listened without much objection, making me sigh in relief. I really can’t use a fight here now, just as the castle is being repaired. Food always seems to bring peace, so I quickly got to it, disappearing through the kitchen doors.

Barely half an hour later I was done. All the ingredients were luckily already placed for me, so I made quick work of it.

I then walked back into the dining hall, a chefs hat perched upon my wolf form. I ignored Fluttershy, Pinkie and Rarity’s very UNFITTING d’aww moment as they spotted me. Instead I ordered the Thestrals to do the prinny servant work for now as they emerged with plates of hot steaming soup.

“I present to you a frog sweat soup with caterpillar eggs, spiced with powdered batwings.”

I took notice at how some guards flinched at the batwing part and rolled my eyes, before returning my attention back to the guests.

Surprisingly Pinkie was the first to take the spoon in her mouth, not hesitating a second. She then smacked her lips together in an exasperated manner, before a huge grin came over her face. She then held the bowl of soup to her mouth, slurping it noisily down, before waving it up in the air.

“Seconds!” she cheerily exclaimed. Despite her mannerisms I couldn’t help but smile lightly. She certainly had quite the good taste, despite her diet having way too much sweets in it.

A bat pony meanwhile was at her side in a mere second as he took her bowl to get it refilled.

Rainbow could only look at her warily while she simply stirred her bowl with her spoon. Not that many others reacted differently.

Half of the guests were to my chagrin hesitating. Even Princess Luna! She looked a little green, making me rather frustrated with her.

Luckily some others were my saving grace as they didn’t hesitate. Fluttershy for example was daintily sipping from the soup, a satisfied expression on her face.

“This is really good,” she complimented, her friend Rarity which was hesitating then followed her example and her eyes lit up as she took the first spoon.

“It really is! It is quite the exotic taste! Compliments to the chef!”

I nodded gratefully to the fashionista. She was without a doubt someone with good taste too.

I saw Punching Bag, Alexander, Rose and Stein sipping without hesitance as well. Much to my chagrin Captain Aurora was much more hesitant, and from her grimaces not liking the taste. How the weakling guard liked it but Aurora, the pinnacle of Thestral mare athleticness did not had always been a mystery to me.

Shoving that thought back into the recesses of my complex mind I looked over to our transdimensional guests, seeing how they were faring.

Jason and Bartz were downing the soup in seconds, while Morpheus was much more dignified in his eating.

I couldn’t help but nod approvingly. It certainly was good to see that my skills could even satisfy such rare folk.

However… I wished the same would go for the others. I couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow at the rest that were not indulging themselves in my cuisine yet.

“Is something the matter?” I asked irritated.

“How can anypony eat such a thing!” Rainbow complained, ever so brashly, making me huff.

“It is quite healthy, and a lot better than some of these dreadful hayburgers I saw ponies eating. Or Faust forbid haybacon. My cuisine is something that was developed with the many items and ingredients that came to this world together with the demons. It is quite a bit of culture I can tell you and I learned it from quite the established chef back then,” I exclaimed with pride, not that it seemed to entice Rainbow to actually eat it.

“Riiiiiiiiiiggghhht,” she drawled out still hesitant, making me huff yet again.

It was really hard to please certain ponies.

After that bit, conversation was slow. Not that everyone minded. Rose for example was sitting right next to Jason. Her chair was suspiciously closer to him than to her other seatmate.

Not that it mattered. The lull in conversation also was quickly rectified as Rarity herself was rising to the challenge of making this meal more enjoyable, along the slurping and sipping.

“Princess Luna, I have to say your ponies are doing quite the amazing work on the palace!” Rarity complimented, “I remember like it was yesterday when we were trapping down these halls. It was quite different from now. Even with so little time the castle is looking to be in a much greater shape now!”

“It was literally two days ago,” Rainbow grumbled under her breath, but was unheard as the conversation continued.

Luna meanwhile couldn’t help but nod proudly, “Indeed! Albeit we can not take the praise for this. Fenrich did an amazing job at keeping our Lunar Guard together during our...absence,” the Princess said, looking a bit sour at the reminder, but quickly lightened up, “Without him we doubt anything like this would be possible.”

“Oh? So you are quite close to him I take it?” Rarity questioned with a certain sparkle in her eyes. I didn’t know what it was, but I was sure that it was not meaning anything good.

Luna nodded rapidly, “Indeed! We art together for a while now!”

I couldn’t help but facepalm, or paw, as the case may be at this...unintentional innuendo.

Celestia however had a more...delicate reaction. She was drinking and did a spit-take directly at Jason.

Jason waved his hand, the drink falling to the ground frozen. “Don’t do that.”

“Apologies…” Celestia stated, albeit clearly more focused on a different matter, “I was just...surprised,” she said before her gaze locked onto mine, with the clear displeasure of a overly possessive sister with her choice in coltfriends imprinted on it.

I quickly waved my paws, “She most certainly didn’t mean it like that! We are simply close in a normal friendly and completely platonic sense.”

“For now, at least.” Jason lifted his glass, winking at Luna and I.

I gaped at Jason for this implication in clear unbridled indignation. Luckily I could suppress a blush, unlike the Princess whose cheek heated up a bit as she fidgeted in her chair.

“Well… Let’s say we art inseparable in a sense,” the Princess started poking her fingers sheepishly and trying to move the conversation along, “We remember last night when we ought to take a bath.”

My face immediately heated up, a blush this time breaking through, and Rarity suddenly got mischievous as she noted the treacherous color on my face.

“Now you got me quite curious, darling! Pray tell!”

The Princess smiled slyly at the fashionista as she formed a response. A response I was already fearing.

“Last night we needed to take a bath after all the grime that hath gathered in our fur after fighting this hydra beast,” I saw the ponies around us shudder at the gorey memory, “But there art windows in the bathroom and Fenrich feared for our safety. He didn’t want us to take a bath because of this matter. We invited him, we will admit a bit teasingly to join us then if he really was that worried. Fenrich himself of course couldn’t help but sputter, trying to refuse vehemently. But once we said that we would bath, no matter what, even if it was a threat to our own health because of a possible assassination he decided to join, to ‘guard’ us.”

“How deliciously scandalous!” Rarity squee’d with her arms hugging her and pressing close to her chest.

Jason smirked, noting my squirming. “Don’t be a chood. Just tell her you like her.”

“I would never! Not that the princess is not love-worthy! I mean-! It was JUST for the Princesses safety!” I sputtered out, looking away from Jason in an uncomfortable silence.

“Dude, I married a queen. Buck up and tell her.”

At this my gaze hardened, “There are things I rather not experience,” I simply replied looking at my own soup bowl with a deep frown.

Luna noting my depressed mood, quickly laid a comforting wing on my shoulder.

“Apologies. But there are topics Fenrich doesn’t like to talk about.”

Jason simply nodded in understanding.

Meanwhile a certain prismatic Pegasus didn’t seem to have felt the changing mood as she looked at me with a strange look in her eyes.

“Bathing together. Wow, that’s creepy,” Rainbow added in a deadpan. She was of course rather late to add her own two bits into this piece of conversation. Not that she minded as she couldn’t help but grin amused, “Next thing you tell me is that he is watching the Princess in her sleep.”

This quickly snapped me out of my funk as I looked at the offending mare.

“I’m guarding her!” I declared proudly while puffing out my chest fluff.

...I also ignored the d’awwing Fluttershy, Pinkie and Rarity yet again. Insolent mares.

“He really does that?!” Rainbow then asked baffled, “I thought Pinkie was spouting bull!”

“Rainbow language!” Rarity reprimanded this rather tactless pegasus.

“And that means you really want to ship them!” Rainbow said while accusingly pointing a finger at Rarity.

I couldn’t help but raise an inquisitive brow, “Ship what?”

Pinkie and Rarity took that moment to leap towards Rainbow Dash as Rarity stuffed a spoon of soup down her throat while Pinkie did the same with a cupcake.

Needless to say that the combined taste made Rainbow almost empty her stomach as she was gagging loudly. Though the gagging I suppose was also a result of having a spoon lodged in her throat.

Rarity quickly turned around and shook her head at me, “She is just spouting some nonsense, dear! Do not listen to her!”

Applejack scratched her cheek uncomfortably, “Ya know...Isn’t it a bit too late ta deny this whole shipping shedang?”

But said mare went unheard as Pinkie piped up again. Said mare had her head turned to me and nodded vigorously to what Rarity had said, “Yepperonie! Dashie definitely just didn’t break the fourth wall by remembering the Episode Review from this Episode, Episode 3!”

I blinked at that, “Episode 3 already? And I’m still in my wolf form? I probably should turn back sooner rather than later. Who knows, this game could only have 12 Episodes in total after all, and I certainly don’t want to be seen by the Final Boss in such a state. Though I’m wondering when he will show up,” I mused with a paw to my chin, “Or she. Though a female Final Boss is rather unlikely, considering Disgaea’s history with such characters.”

“What do you think?” I asked, turning to Jason.

Jason shrugged. “I dunno. I didn’t play Disgaea. All I know is, there was a game about getting someone’s panties back.”

I hummed in thought, “Doesn’t ring a bell with me. I mean, I remember one anime that had such an episode… But maybe my sharp mind is slowly degenerating after a thousand years. Albeit I certainly hope this isn’t the case.”

He reached over, flicking my ear. “It was Prinny 2: Dawn of Operation Panties, Dood.”

“Ah… Well that explains it. I played the first part of this spin-off series but sadly never got around to playing the sequel. Displacement getting in the way as you can surely relate.”

At that moment I felt Fluttershy, that was sitting on the chair next to me petting me, grabbing my ear and stroking it, causing my eyebrow to slightly twitch.

“Could you stop that?” I asked slightly annoyed, making her look sheepish.

“Oh, uhm, I’m sorry?”

I let out an annoyed sigh, before turning to Jason and the two young Prince’s. “Did I ever mention how thankful I am that at least you three never tried to touch or pet me? Well, disregarding that one time if I don’t account for the ear flick,” I said giving a slight stinkeye to Jason, albeit doing it in a way to assure him that I was only slightly peeved because of it. I then broke eye contact with him, lowering my head with a sigh, “Having the softest hair, or fur as the case now may be, in all of Equus due to my lycanthrope genes is truly a tremendous burden I have to bear.”

At that moment Rarity decided to speak up as she gazed at me with a thoughtful look.

“You know, Fenrich, I’m quite curious as to how you have met Princess Luna. Would you share it with us?”

“I’m not sure that is such a good idea,” I tried to derail this situation, but Luna only nodded approvingly.

“It shalt be done. After all it would probably help so that thou all feel more comfortable around Fenrich. Tis a good way to get to know each other better. And if thou art uncomfortable Fenrich, don’t thou worry! We can tell this tale ourself!”

I quickly jumped up and with my front paws on the table, “That won’t be necessary! I...better take care of that myself.”

A sigh escaped my lips. I wasn’t really that willing to indulge these curious ponies, but since Luna would tell them regardless… It’s better if I do it. That way I have more control and may skip certain details at my leisure.

“Ahem! This is quite the long story, so I will only indulge you in one part of it for now. If you wish to hear more after that… Then another time. In any case it all began with a simple thought coursing through my mind...”

Author's Note

Yup. I'm sorry to disappoint but Rarity is the shipper! :rainbowwild:

Cadance is probably back in Canterlot watching the castle. You know. Doing Princess stuff. :moustache:

Also two more parts will follow before this is concluded. I hope you enjoy it! :yay:

Ooh! And a part of Fenrich's past will be revealed this Episode! Sure, only a small one. An appetizer so to speak, but that is still something. :pinkiesmile:

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Eight

Storytime with FenFen!

I was lost.

There was no better way to describe it. Being ripped from your world and sent to another has that effect. But that wasn’t the only change. I was also given powers, was made stronger than I was before. And of course I used these powers.

Yes, ripped from another dimension. No, I don’t particularly care that you think it’s impossible. Jason here experienced the same and can confirm my story.

How about you just deal with the truth I’m laying before you and let me tell my tale.

As I was saying I was in a land I later learned was called Equestria as I trudged along to find civilization. I quickly found it, but…let’s just say xenophobic is a good word for my first experience with the populace. They insulted me and called me a vile demon and attacked me, making it clear to me that I would have to act differently to survive in this world.

Only the strongest deserve to survive and to rule.

That was my unbreakable belief. The weak are being ruled over and die. And I certainly didn’t want to be the latter. So I used my newfound abilities. I used my strength to fight everyone who seemed willing to do so. And let’s just say quite a few guard rookies were eager to take care of a ‘foul beast’ in the hopes to make themselves a name. Unfortunately for them, I was the one that made a name for myself and not them.

I was not only working to gain levels and mana though. I also sought out information and equipment. With that I broke into the homes of everyone who seemed fit. From noble houses, to weapon smiths and libraries-

Don’t act so surprised. No, I didn’t burn down the library or damage it. Do I look like some bloody amateur or savage to you? No, I didn’t steal books and I didn’t rip pages out of them either. Why should I? I have a rather admirable memory after all. So calm yourself.

So, as I was saying before being rudely interrupted again by Purple, I was travelling through Equestria getting stronger and wiser as I gathered levels, mana, equipment and knowledge. Of course many ponies cursed me and tried to stop me. But the Solar Guard was hardly an enemy. The assassins and mercenaries the nobles hired were a bigger threat.

Before long I was feeling like I was on top of the world. With my gathered strength not many could oppose me. I became one of the strongest beings back then. A force to be reckoned with which of course drew the ire of a very specific being.

Yes, I mean you Celestia. Luna told me about how you said and I quote: “If it threatens our little ponies, then we have to put it down!”

Not that I threatened anyone mind you. I merely stole what I needed and fought only when challenged. Of course some nobles were being whiners, but that hardly was my fault. They are a target if they hoard money, knowledge and equipment.

And said knowledge of course led me to several strong fist-type weapons. Of course not to the strongest in existence. That one was safely secured in a specific place.

No, don’t take me for a fool. I wouldn’t take such big risks.

…Princess would you stop laughing?

Yes, I’m aware you are trying to suppress it but it’s still irritating.

Anyway, I became one of the strongest beings and Celestia wasn’t amused. So she sent the elite guard troop after me. The Lunar Demons which are essentially an elite group of the Night Guard.

Yes, no Solar Guard member ever made it into that group Rose. Thanks for reminding me. That is always an interesting point to make in how trained our dear military in this country is. Especially the sun-loving side.

So, the group hunted me down. I still remember it as they invaded my small camp that I had set up for the night…

It was a rather beautiful night. The moon was shining in all its glory, illuminating the trees of the forest in its soft shade. I could hear them. My sensitive ears hearing the slight noises. Almost too inaudible to be seen as anything other than the noises of the forest. I could also smell them. A group of ten, with eight Thestrals, one Pegasus and an Alicorn.

They neared the camp. I made sure to take cover in a save spot among the trees to assess the situation. This wasn’t the first time this happened after all.

Though one thing was different.

After all the different beings sneaked into the small glade instead of trampling like amateurs. One of them being Commander Hurricane of all people, but that wasn’t really that I meant with different. I’m not even meaning the appearance of the Princess of the Night. It was more what she said that surprised me.

“Fenrich the Silver Wolf! I’m challenging you to a duel!” she announced.

Yes. This was actually the first time I was challenged to a duel. All the others weren’t really fans of proper etiquette, so of course I was intrigued by this request, but I was also wary.

What? You meant the nickname? Let’s just say, ponies are not that creative when it comes to them. I mean we had also one thief that got the nickname ‘The Master Thief’, which was just as much lacking any kind of brain capacity when thinking up nicknames.

…No, Pinkie. FenFen is not a good nickname.

Anyway, I didn’t know the Princess back then, so I wasn’t sure if she really meant it, so I stayed silent.

The Princess harrumphed before she looked around to her guards.

“Leave us,” she simply stated.

The elite guards only hesitated for a mere moment before they followed her orders. All with the exception of Commander Hurricane, who she raised a brow at inquisitively.

“What?” he shrugged, “I actually want to see the fight. Well, if he actually shows some spine and comes out.”

“Oh, don’t worry I do,” I answered as I jumped out from my hiding spot and stepping towards the Princess. She was decked out in the finest armor. It was light and had a blue tinge to it, representing the night. It was clear to me that she was counting more on mobility than protection. Something only few people do. The most idiots I faced were so clad in armor that they almost couldn’t move and were an easy prey. I knew she wouldn’t be. She would be different. It got me curious…and also I will admit a bit reckless. She was just emitting a fascination towards me.

The two of them were seizing me up as well. And the Princess also seemed to recognize my own strength as she nodded respectfully towards me.

“It seems we hath finally found thee. Before we begin, tell me Fenrich the Silver Wolf, what exactly do you gain by breaking into innocent ponies homes and robbing them of their valuable goods? Why choose this path of thievery with your apparent strength? Why not use your power for something more beneficial?”

Those cheesy words made me want to vomit back then. I didn’t see any wisdom in them, only the foolish wish dreams of a child, seeing the world as a peaceful and perfect place. I will admit to my shame that this questions of hers made me think of Luna as being unfit to rule as I scoffed at her.

“Beneficial? You mean by helping some insolent brats? Ponies who would never lift a single finger to help me if I was in need? No, that is hardly beneficial. Instead I would rather continue to gather wisdom and strength, so that I can be on top of the food chain. To be an unstoppable force. To be the strongest there is and rule over the weak. That is what I desire. I don’t see the world as the perfect little place like you do. There will always be conflict and for that one needs to be strong. That’s my ambition!”

The Princess sadly shook her head.

“We hath no other choice then. Have at thee!” she roared the last part as she summoned her scythe and run towards me. I took up my fists and deflected her as we clashed in battle.

And with that our fight begun.

I fell to my knees, breathing heavily, sweat dripping from my brow. My hands were on the ground as I tried to push myself up again.

Princess Luna only looked at me with a pitying expression. An expression I hated more than anything at that time.

She was sweating too, and her breathing was accelerated likewise, albeit both far less strong. She looked as if she had a workout, I looked as if I was fighting for my life, which I thought I was back then.

“Just stay down,” she pleaded, but I didn’t listen.

With one last bout of speed I put all of my remaining strength in one last ditch effort. All my power gathering in my fist. Braveheart was really the best I could do at this point, since my SP were too low for anything else.

Yes, Braveheart. The Special that increases the ATK state. No, that is NOT a spell. Perish the thought. And SP are SP. Don’t even think to compare them with Mana. There is an obvious difference. Honestly, don’t they have books in that library of yours to read? I’m feeling like I’m talking to a dimwit right now.

No, I don’t care how high your score was in Celestia’s School or that you think that you are a protege. How about you just let me continue, hm? Good.

Anyway, the Princess didn’t even dodge my attack but took it head on. My fist connected with her stomach, making a clear indent. The Princess did her best to keep a straight face, and did rather admirably at that, even though she still made a slight grimace.

But still. That was what ended this fight for me. I tried to attack her with full power and she just grimaced barely noticeable.

I just stared in disbelief at her before it turned to resignation and acceptance of my fate, as I fell to the ground and on my back. I looked up at the Princess. The moon was illuminating her slender frame in a beautiful light. It certainly was a delightful sight to see upon dying.

...Why are you looking at me like that Rarity?

I was just complimenting the Princess! Nothing more!

...Let’s just move on.

Of course as I lay there, with Luna towering over me. Like I said, she looked beautiful, in an elegant way. Though she still had that pitying look on her face, which slightly ruined it for me.

Not to mention that it was all she was doing as time dragged on.

I summoned one last bout of defiance as I stared up at her and scoffed.

“Don’t tell me one of the leaders of this wretched land is too cowardly to finish what she has started? Go on and finish this. I have lost and therefore am too weak to live. This is the world we are living in after all.”

Luna reeled back as if struck, not expecting my harsh words in my battered state. Her pitying look only seemed to intensify and her horn started to glow. I closed my eyes, readying myself for the end.

I expected a last bout of pain, but instead a warm, soothing light engulfed me, healing the worst of my wounds.

I opened my eyes in shock and saw the Princess holding a hand out to me with a warm smile.

“Nay. We art not going to kill thou. Thou fought well. Thine bravery shalt be a worthy asset to our group, comrade.”

My eyes widened slightly at that. It was only for a small time fraction, as my mind already worked in overdrive on how to use this situation to my advantage. It didn’t take long for me to find that reason. So I took her hand with ulterior motives as she pulled me up. I knew that things were bound to get interesting.

The Princess nodded.

“He speaks truth. At first Fenrich was rather reluctant. And we already sensed his ulterior motives then he took our hand.”

“But why did you even trust him then?!” asked an exasperated looking Rainbow Dash as she shot me a dirty look yet again. Albeit it was quickly quenched by an equally dirty look from Jason.

“Simple. Back then, then he waited for his death and told us of his views of our world, that the strong live and the weak die… We just knew back then that he needed help, that we needed to help him. He was a lost soul, misguided. He needed guidance. And rather would we abdicate than leaving a poor lonely soul like him be. We knew that we at least hath to try.”

I nodded, rather touched by her exposition.

“And I will be forever grateful for this chance.”

Rarity seemed emotionally touched at our words as well, as a dreamy sigh escaped her, though it seemed like a good ice breaker in any case if I had to guess. At least I felt the hostility decrease slightly as some of the ponies started to look thoughtful. Even this Rainbow abomination.

Anyway, soon the lunch ended, leaving us all with our bellies full and satisfied. I took that moment to lead Jason and the young princes out and back into the main hall. The others were meanwhile led out of the castle as the impromptu visit ended. There wasn’t really any big mention worthy goodbyes in case you are curious.

“I hope you all enjoyed your meal,” I started to say as we reached the main hall were the precious spire of diamond could still be seen.

“Not the best meal I’ve had in the castle,” Jason teased, putting his hands in his pockets. “But, you don’t have an immortal boar here.”

I huffed slightly at his tease, “Well, I am what most would call an immortal, considering I’m aging 10 years in 1000 years. Albeit that is of course a trait demons possess. Certainly was useful back then I waited for Princess Luna to return. But it certainly gave me enough time to learn about quite a few different recipes and improve my cooking further, so that the Princess can lead a healthy lifestyle from now on.”

Luna gulped slightly at that, dread filling the pit of her stomach, “W-What kind of healthy lifestyle?”

“Since you are refusing to drink blood I will have to spice up your diet, so that your body can perform the feats it would do so even without the life-giving liquid. I estimate that this would require your breakfast, lunch and dinner to be prepared by me. Not to mention any snacks and drinks in between to really maximize your potential.”

“B-Breakfast…L-L-Lunch, a-and dinner?” she questioned with a shudder which made me roll my eyes.

“Yes of course!” a mischievous smirk then found itself on my face, “Well, if you change your mind, then maybe it wouldn’t be necessary…”

I saw it. Right there, a hint of doubt. She was thinking about agreeing, but that also quickly died down as she braced herself, with a nervous sweat drop building on her brow.

“We decline. A promise can never be broken, so if we must sacrifice ourselves then we will do just that.”

I simply rolled my eyes at her again. On one hand because of this ridiculous notion that came way too close to a specific Disgaea character, and on the other hand at how she was putting a brave face on, while being totally terrified on the inside. I probably should feel insulted at that reaction to my cuisine, considering I was a rather excellent chef. But I of course understood that there were people that simply had trouble with stomaching healthy food.

Much to my chagrin the Princess was one of those people.

But then again I guess that even the Princess has a limit to being a perfect being, so I can forgive her this one and only flaw she possesses.

I then turned around to Jason, “Pardon our little banter. It is just a promise Luna made to not drink blood, even though it does strengthen her.” I then looked left and right conspiratorially, before whispering to him, “It’s sadly just like in the game. The protagonist was a vampire that refused to drink blood.”

“Yeah, that kinda thing happens.”

I nodded. It did. This colorful land certainly had quite a few surprises.

...Just like the pack of timberwolves walking in our direction. Hm. I actually wondered where they were.

Before Jason did anything I walked forward, calling over my shoulder, “Let me deal with them. They are just some deserteurs I once recruited.”

With that said I walked to the largest dog in the pack. Said dog lowering her head in clear submission, trying to earn my favor again, and making me sigh in annoyance.

Then before any of them could react I bounced forward, spinning, before launching my paw in a punch straight into the alpha’s head, making it explode and the wolf collapse.

The other dogs whimpered as I gave them a slight glare. The alpha herself transformed back after a moment, but still clearly servile, making me sigh.

“You abandoned the Princess and I in her time of need. I can’t say that I will tolerate such behavior in the future. But you will be forgiven this one time. Now in case you are hungry, I will make sure to feed you once my business here is finished.”

The alpha nodded her head before turning and walking in direction of the kitchen and past the others.

I was just walking back to the group then I gained some levels. My form instantly grew, and much to my own delight it was slowly transforming from that of a puppy to my normal demonic and more humanoid looking form once again. It certainly was nice to finally have leveled up enough to be myself again.

I then looked over at Jason, “It certainly is a good feeling to have left the effect of the Elements behind. Not to mention to be presentable in my normal form.”

“I’ve never been unfortunate enough to be hit by them,” Jason replied.

It made me roll my eyes, “Yes, yes. You never experienced the pure joy of being hit by poison joke in gem form. No need to rub it in. Though it makes me wonder what prank you might suffer from. Certainly nothing with gender- or species swapping since that is something you can do on your own.”

“I get turned into a ten year old,” Jason explained. “It’s not fun.”

“Oh?” I said raising an eyebrow, “And your powers can’t turn you back? In any case it doesn’t sound that bad. I would rather be a chibi Fenrich than a puppy everyone wants to cuddle…”

Jason gave him a flat look. “You haven’t meet my wife. She makes it hell.”

“Ah… I didn’t consider that. But anyway, we are here yet again,” I said opening the door to Rose’s luxurious room.

Inside was, like I expected, said Thestral mare herself, grinning at us...or Jason.

“I wanted to say goodbye,” she said, now a bit sadly as we already had entered the room.

“You can always visit,” Jason assured, putting his hand on her head. “So, don’t let it get ya down.”

The mare looked up at Jason smiling softly as her head moved up into his pats, “I will!”

She really seemed to enjoy his head pats I noted, but before long her gaze then also spotted me. She was surprised before sighing in disappointment.

“I liked you as a puppy better,” she complained.

“If you really want a puppy, you can create a timberwolf one,” I dismissed her, before looking back to Jason, “It seems our time comes to an end for now. But since our worlds are connected we might see each other. Albeit not as much as I imagine Rose will be seeing you.”

Jason smiled. “Yeah, it’s been fun. Just say, ‘Jason, our contract is complete.;”

“Until another time. Jason, our contract is complete,” I answered.

“Fare thee well,” Luna said her own goodbyes and Rose waved rather enthusiastically.

“I will be sure to come over soon!” she said with a grin, “I just need to prepare myself for the big meeting with the herd.”

At that point her face blushed slightly, making her rub it with her hands in clear joy as she no doubt imagined this meeting already.

Jason gave her a thumbs up before he and the princes vanished in a flash of light.

I gave a sigh. It seems like this was over for now. But it certainly gave us new interesting possibilities. Making allies beyond dimensions was quite the promising concept after all.

Author's Note

The fateful meeting of two minds who couldn't be more different at that time! Certainly a nice chapter. Only one Epilogue like will follow to round things up and lead up to Episode 4! :yay:

Episode 3: Fresh Start of a Nightmare - Part Nine

I left the Princess to her own devices after that, quickly getting to the guards barracks to look for said guards as I entered.

Punching Back was sitting on a desk, looking over a list, clearly making sure everything was in order.

He of course saw me soon enough, considering I was in my normal form again. He blinked once, then twice, before stumbling to his feet and in front of me.

“Sir F-Fenrich! What can I do for you?”

“Punching Bag, I want you to place an order for the best educated and trained prinnies in Tartarus. And at least 100 for a start. We will need a lot of personnel to keep this place in a pristine condition. One that is worthy of the greatness of the Princess of the Night.”

“G-Got it, S-Sir Fenrich!” he saluted before scampering off.

Hoof steps then alerted me to the presence of Aurora and I quickly turned around to face her.

“Good that you are here. I also have a task for you Captain.”

The Thestral smirked, “You are quite the slavedriver, you know that Fenrich?”

“Be that as it may, but this is simply too important to postpone. I will need you to investigate the hydra incident. We need to know what we are dealing with.”

Aurora hummed in thought, crossing her arms and leaning against a wall, “So you really think there is more to it than simply some fillies acting foalish?”

“It is a possibility. And I will not leave such a possibility to chance. No matter how much you may mock me for it. If there is an enemy to the Princess that is willing to get active in such a way we need to know. It is best you start asking these three fillies about it. And if they have anything of worth to report to me, then do it.”

A sigh escaped the Captain’s lips as she turned serious, “Alright. I will look into it. But if I come out empty...you owe me a keg of cider!”

I rolled my eyes, ever so thankful I could do this in my normal form again, “Now shoo. I need some time to think.”

Aurora nodded leaving me to my thoughts. Or well, the barracks wasn’t a good place to do that. So I went into the castle gardens.

The walk wasn’t long, and sadly the garden was not in the best shape yet. Or more precisely in a state of disrepair. Weed was sprawling every which way and on every stone set in the sand. No sign left of the moon flowers that were blooming around and in little isles inside the sand. The little pools of water, fountaining also have long since stopped working. Every part that once showed off this garden's beauty was in a sad condition, so much was true. But still...the tranquility of this zen garden with its sand, stones, isles and the decrepit wooden bridge leading over it wasn’t harmed by it. Beauty was in the eye of the beholder and this garden still had beauty in its own way.

With that I sighed in satisfaction I hoped over the stepping stones onto a large rock. My usual spot for some rest and peace of mind. I certainly would see that everything here would get back to its true beauty. Even as the sun slowly was setting.

I breathed in and out, enjoying the much needed quiet and reprise. We had a lot of excitement today, so I think I am allowed a small break. I had to wait for the information about this incident anyway, and couldn’t do much in that case sadly. Not to mention that the guards were more than capable on working the castle up by themselves. And I had also spotted for three suitable mares to work up this garden. Albeit their interview would come later.

Not that this was the only reason for my being lonesome. I honestly...had to ponder. Jason was an interesting character. Maybe a bit too sure of himself. He was practically rubbing his abilities under my snout...or nose now. I’m back in my old form and clothes after all.

I fiddled with the ring on the end of the chain around my neck. Something he said of course struck me. He said he could even bring the death back to life, warping reality and completely ignoring the wandering souls of every living being.

...It was unsettling to say the least, but also made me wonder for a small moment. Wonder if I should ask… Though it might be better to leave things in the past. Not to mention I only revealed little of my past, and if my thoughts are shown as a textbox to the players I might simply confuse them.

Ah, sweet fourth-wall-breaking. Even if I have no audience I might as well play along for the sake of staying in character.

It was then that my ears perked up and I heard some pony approach. Of course I already smelled the Princesses scent long before that as she approached me before sitting down next to me.

“Fenrich?” I turned my neck to face the Princess, a sad look adopted on her face. Of course it was also a bit strange to have to look down at her as she was still in her teenage form, “This was quite the fun visit, wasn’t it?” she continued making me hum as I nodded.

I was a bit uncertain what she was trying to say, “It was. Albeit we sometimes had different opinions in certain matters. And I will admit that I was a bit miffed at Jason for not always taking my words serious. But all in all… Let’s say he seems like a suitable acquaintance.”

“Friend.”

I cocked my head questioningly at her.

“A friend, Fenrich,” she then adopted a teasing grin, “And don’t think we missed how thou called Commander Hurricane a friend earlier. He would probably have a field day if he would have heard of this.”

I started to sputter indignantly. Did I really use the word ‘friend’? I did, didn’t I? Was my former puppy form affecting me this much? Was I starting to get emotionally unstable?

All these questions seemed to vanish as the Princess hugged me yet again, which was as awkward as you can imagine with our different height. I of course would have broken out of it, if it wasn’t the Princesses wish to embrace me. I definitely wasn’t enjoying the warmth, or the fine aroma of moonflower that drifted from her body.

I sighed, before remembering Jason’s cryptic words. Something about Faust. He was behaving strange and it seemed rather...off. Should I mention it? But then again it would only worry her more. And the Princess now needed my support, so that is what she will receive.

“It is good to have you back,” I simply said, feeling like a broken record, considering this wasn’t the first time I mentioned it. Though I guess this place is simply making me nostalgic.

Luna hummed in agreement as she broke the hug, “And it is good to be here, and also for the garden to still be here. We half expected Tia to have rampaged through it after...our episode…”

I simply snorted, “I expected it too, considering I was the one who designed this garden. But she simply abandoned the castle instead to build this monstrosity on your mountain, like you have already noticed.”

“It is okay, Fenrich. It is just a mountain. A dream can be fulfilled in any location. Though thou never mentioned what really happened.”

I really didn’t like her inquisitive tone. But then again I was expecting this to happen. Especially after mentioning it to Jason. And I of course promised her an explanation later. So I needed to give her one.

“It is like I said,” I started a bit hesitantly, trying to form my words, “Celestia was enraged after she sent you to the moon. Her guard was attacking every Demon and Thestral. Your sister also taking part in the hunt. It was pure chaos. So much screaming and desperate pleas hanging empty in the air. Commander Hurricane and the others tried their best and helped to evacuate everyone. Alexander creating a portal while the Thestral guards and me stalled them. Rose was there too, having to abandon her shop and simply carry what she could. Something she is still rather cross about with Celestia. Though in any case I had to face her in a fierce battle. I wasn’t feeling up for it, but I of course had to. I had to protect them just as you would have wanted. Luckily your sister back then was a couch potato, just as she is now, so I could hold her off long enough without breaking a sweat. In the end we managed to evacuate and after the last were gone we fled through the portal too before collapsing it. We all fled to Griffonia. They helped us and protected us from Celestia’s long reach. Something that almost caused a war between the nations. Almost, as Celestia relented. Probably some ponies speaking sense into her. Of course she still made laws that suppressed demons and made their very being illegal. Laws which started to slowly fall apart over the centuries, though still didn’t stop from prejudices to be common amongst the populace. But yes, that is all there is to it.”

The Princess was silent for a moment, processing my words before smiling in relief, “We art glad to hear that thou managed. We were worrying for a thousand years how things turned out for thee and the others. And we art just glad everything ended on such a note. Though we are now faced with new challenges.”

I nodded in agreement, “The world, while it is not as volatile as back then still now got their beloved Moon Princess back. That has to create some waves. Not to mention the political side to this will be rather tedious. It would be way easier if we simply followed the demonic way with an election simply being held by fighting your way to the top and gaining support that way. So much cleaner too in comparison.”

The Princess’s head turned to me with a smirk, “So thee think of bloody brawls being cleaner to negotiations and discussions.”

“Nobles play dirty. They are mostly not trustworthy. It doesn’t help that this fool Blueblood is actually blocking your way. A thousand years of resentment are hard to breach.”

“When it is high time we breach it!” the Lunar Princess declared standing up and pointing to the slowly setting sky in great determination.

I stood up alongside her, bowing in my classic way, “It shall be done. Give me a day and a suitable PR-Team will be hired to finally smash your sisters vile ideologies of her being the best princess.”

Luna was about to retort. Clearly about my clear and flawless interpretation of Celestia’s foul motives, but a confusion cut her short, and she answered with a confused, raised brow, “What is PR?”

A group of five specific ponies were standing at the entrance of the castle. The group of the Mane Six, merely waiting for their fashionista friend before departing back to Ponyville. But even still, this day brought new information to light. Some good, some bad, depending on one’s viewpoint. But it all seemed to spark even more questions as before. And while some enjoyed their stay, others were a bit less...enthusiastic.

“The nerve! Calling me a dimwit! And this coming from a-, a-, UGH!” a purple unicorn huffed and puffed in clear displeasure at this insolence to her humongous brain!

Applejack simply shrugged, “Ya know sugarcube, he might be rough around the edges, but Ah think that remark alone is no reason for hostility. It certainly was interesting to hear some of his story, though I would have wished for more.”

“Come on, AJ! Don’t tell me you are actually going to relent! And just because that stupid demon guy was calling you a racist!”

Applejack sputtered for a moment before composing herself, “AH’M NOT!” she screamed out before coughing embarrassedly in her hoof, “Ah was just thinking that we haven’t seen ‘im do anything bad yet and should ease the tension a tad.”

“He barely told us anything about him! Not even the story of how he corrupted Luna to do a c-cous, uh, cup?”

“Coup,” Twilight put in helpfully making Rainbow nod gratefully.

“Yeah! That! We just know that he is a huge jerk! Remember what the Princess told us. She wanted us to be careful and pound his skull into the pavement if he just wiggles a wrong paw...or something like that. Not to mention that he proved to be violent with the hydra! Not that it wasn’t awesome on some level, but the Princess was positively destroyed after she was bathed in this things guts and showed off her dangerous side!”

Applejack mulled this over, “Well...but she also saved this here guard. And Fenrich saved our sister’s, didn’t he?”

Rainbow held one finger up, as if to retaliate, but then grumbled to herself, “He probably just wanted to steal our trust like that.”

Just in that moment Rarity met the group shaking her head, “I sincerely doubt that darling. He didn’t mention it during dinner, so he probably didn’t know. Though I find it delightful to see this romance blossom in front of my eyes!”

Pinkie jumped in, “Yepperoni! Makes me wonder what I should moderate for the next Episode Review? Maybe something about a maid cafe? Or dragon slaying? Or *GASP* Tartarus?!”

Twilight raised a curious brow at that, “Tartarus? What would Fenrich want there?”

Pinkie just smiled innocently as she put her arms behind her back, “You know. Just a hunch! And he ordered prinnies from it as servants for the castle soooooooooooo...”

Twilight groans, “Let’s rather get back to the other point. I think we can all agree that we need to hear more about his past to actually assuage if he is an evil manipulative mastermind, or-”

“Just a huge jerk?” Rainbow complied making Twilight nod, before levitating some crystals to the others.

“These are for recording said story. It will make it easier if not all are present. I already recorded the first part.”

“This is fabulous darling! Quick thinking!”

Twilight grinned smugly, “Of course! I’m no dimwit after all!”

~END~

Author's Note

Yup. Episode 3 is done!

...Or is it? Guess Episode Review still needs to be done. Certainly hope you liked this one, and hope you will enjoy what I have planned next! :yay:

Edit: Also I noticed this chapter was posted exactly one month after the last. :moustache:

Preview: Episode 4

Next Episode Preview

Pinkie Pie: Tragedy has struck! FenFen and Princess Woona are completely and utterly broke!

Fenrich: I’m sorry, Princess. I failed you!

Pinkie Pie: So to further sustain them Luna now has to work at a Maid Cafe, wearing a cutsie outfit while welcoming the customers by calling ‘Welcome back, Master!’

Fenrich: This is a nightmare!

Pinkie Pie: Oh well, she also has a part-time job at Hayburger’s if that suits your taste more.

Fenrich: We are not in ‘The Devil is a Part-Timer’ here!

Pinkie Pie: So, to actually afford her luxurious lifestyle again, FenFen is facing down a dragon that has settled near Ponyville for his horde!

Fenrich: Honor lies only in total servitude. Failure is not an option! For the Princess!

Pinkie Pie: With a mighty battle cry he jumps into the fray! This is truly the showdown of the century! Dragon versus Wolf!

[Insert picture of FenFen facing of against a giant red fire-breathing dragon]

Pinkie Pie: Just as things were about to get heated a rainbow-colored strand blurred past, hitting the dragon in his large muzzle! A third party appears!

Rainbow Dash: You know, as if I am letting him steal my thunder!

Pinkie Pie: Rainbow confidently exclaims, joining the fray! And so a nerve-wracking Battle Royal begins!

Pinkie Pie: Next time on ‘The Princess is a Part-Timer’, Episode 4: Fealty versus Loyalty!

Pinkie Pie: A swear will be made, bonds will bloom and cake will be eaten!

Rainbow Dash: Watch out, here I come!

???: Hmhmhm! We will see who will get the treasure in the end!

Author's Note

Sorry for that smallish one. But I wanted to keep with the feeling of the series. :twilightsheepish:

Episode 1: The Return of the Nightmare - Part One

~Episode 1: The Return of the Nightmare~

Triumph.

Probably the most satisfactory emotion that exists in this realm and any other. Just to see a plan come to fruition while the pawns of your opponent fall into your trap, first being separated only to get surrounded as they see their last hopes being crushed. The hope here being the Elements of Harmony.

Five ponies were led by me in a tight circle of Timberwolves towards the final room of the Castle of the Two Sisters, where the Princess was already awaiting us.

We came just in time as Princess Nightmare Moon obliterated the Elements and with that cemented her victory. The purple pony crawling before her could only stare in terror at her, seeing as she just lost her only way to win.

Of course that wasn’t the main event. Spoils were always going to the victor. And so the five ponies could only protest loudly inside the circle of Timberwolves as their leaders neck was engulfed in a dark blue glow and brought closer to the Princesses fangs.

The prismatic one tried a charge but was quickly punished by me with a clout to her face before she could reach my liege.

I allowed a satisfied smile to grace my features as I heard her snout painfully break under the force of my fist and blood to spill from her muzzle. I choose to ignore the painful groaning of the fallen mare and walked along the lines of Timberwolves I had recruited to serve the Mistress of the Night. I strode past them and even past the five pathetic low-level challengers, the rainbow-maned one throwing me an especially fierce glare as soon as she regained her composure, blood dripping from her muzzle.

She amused me.

As I finally made my way towards the Princess I got into a bow to show her the proper respect she deserved. She just got finished with her feeding off the spoils and laid the mare down to the ground behind me.

“I hope this is all to your satisfaction,” I said while bowing.

She only hummed happily in agreement as she licked her lips.

“You performed well Fenrich. This mare was certainly an excellent vintage. I am glad that even after a thousand years you are standing so loyal at my side. I will make sure to reward you properly later.”

I gently shook my head. “Your satisfaction is enough reward for me.”

This was a truly glorious day. Nothing could possibly ruin this mo-

“That’s it!” the purple mare suddenly said as she propped herself up on her arms, as she was weakly trying to get onto her hooves after having fed the true Princess.

I raised an eyebrow at her as she stood up on shaky hooves, while throwing us both a confident smile. A smile that could either be sophomoric or dare I say confident in victory.

I didn’t like it.

“You think you can destroy The Elements of Harmony just like that? Well, you're wrong, because the spirits of The Elements of Harmony are right here,” she stated as suddenly a glow enveloped the splinters of the destroyed inactive Elements.

“What?” the Nightmare Princess asked bewildered. Just as bewildered as me. I could feel the harmonious magic in the air, knowing well that this was definitely a bad sign.

Seemingly encouraged by our cautious behavior the purple mare pressed on.

What followed was a rather cheesy listing of our adversaries and which Element they represent. It was something that made me sick to my stomach. Even more so because of the simultaneous activation of the Elements. I could already feel my strength weakening under the constant waves of harmony magic that grew stronger with each Element that was revealed.

“The spirits of these five ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us,” the purple menace simply droned on, while Nightmare Moon’s cool demeanor slipped and I couldn’t help but feel a drop of sweat running down my brow myself as I tried to find a way out of this. Of course no quick solution for this dilemma came to mind.

“You still don't have the sixth Element! The spark didn't work!” the Princess shouted and purple made a confident step forward.

“But it did! A different kind of spark. I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to realize how much you cared for me and I cared for you. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all... are my friends! You see, Nightmare Moon and Fenrich, when those Elements are ignited by the... the spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth element: the element of... magic!”

Yes. This definitely is the cheesiest thing I have ever heard.

But that didn’t matter as I could feel the magic in the air peaking as it was all gathered in the crown that now adored purples head. Only a second later a colorful Rainbow shot towards the true ruler of Equestria.

“Nooo! Nooo!” Princess Nightmare screamed much to my horror, making my body jumpstart itself.

I wouldn’t let her get hurt!

“Princess!” I said as I threw myself in front of her, my arms outstretched in an attempt to bear the full force of the attack.

I just couldn’t allow them to do this to her again.

But it all was in vain.

The sickly colors of the rainbow were wrapped like paper around both of our forms as the harmonious magic invaded our bodies.

My demonic cells were fighting this truly malicious process but were quickly overpowered by this raw might the Elements wield.

Everything burned in my body, feeling like I was heating up, before at the crescendo of it I could feel it retreat. But it wasn’t simply leaving my body.

I could feel every level I had gathered draining out of me. My body seems to shift as I was sucked dry. Sucked until there only was emptiness.

And here I had sworn that only the true Princess Nightmare Moon could suck me.

My blood, I of course mean. In case any of you imbeciles had any untoward thoughts about my noble sacrifice.

In any case, in the end I simply lay there on the cold hard ground, eyes closed as the darkness seemed to surround me. My senses were dulled and I could only hope for the best and fear for the worst.

I just hope the Princess was safe.

Author's Note

I had this chapter on my PC for months, but wasn't confident enough to publish it. Now I think, why not? I just do what I want. And if I don't like my writing for my other stories, I just can try and get inspiration by trying to write stories like this. :pinkiesmile:

Preview: Episode 3

Next Episode Preview

Pinkie Pie: A new goal was set! But what is to be done now that a new threat was suddenly revealed?

Rainbow Dash: Pinkie?

Pinkie Pie: FenFen is determined to protect his Princess at any costs, not leaving her side and even watching over her in her sleep in a totally-not-creepy way as his chest is burning with a fiery passion!

[Insert totally-not-creepy picture of FenFen watching over teenage Luna’s sleeping and completely helpless form]

Rainbow Dash: IT CAN’T GET ANY MORE CREEPIER IF HE TRIED!

Pinkie Pie: But their bonds will get tested as a new entity meddles with their relation!

???: *SQUEE* These two fit so perfectly together! If he could only see his love for her! It doesn’t matter! I will just have to make him see it!

Pinkie Pie: And so shipping ensues!

[Insert picture of a black silhouette pulling strings overhead and leading the two protagonists to a romantic dinner]

???: It is going to be PERFECT!

Pinkie Pie: Yepperoni! Especially since FenFen cooks himself! But beware because a new actor and surprise guest suddenly appears trying to gain Luna’s love as well!

[Insert picture of surprise guest silhouette standing imposingly in the middle while all are staring at him in either awe or surprise]

???: This dirty scoundrel!

Rainbow Dash: Seriously you two are starting to creep me out. I’m getting Twilight for help if you two don’t stop this horsery right now!

Pinkie Pie: But this horsery can’t be stopped anymore as we have gone too far off the deep end, meaning that a fierce cooking battle between the two love rivals ensues!

???: Go FenFen! Fight for your love!

[Insert black silhouette cheering him on from left, while Fenrich and the silhouette of the special guest are facing each other in the middle of a cooking battle, with Pinkie cheering from the right, for symmetry purposes]

Pinkie Pie: Next time on Interspecies Romancist Episode 3: Dinner Date with a breeze of Love Rivalry!

Pinkie Pie: Ooh! And I better don’t forget to mention that our very special surprise guest is coming out of town, or the universe. Oh well… Let’s enjoy this dinner together!

Rainbow Dash: ...Buck this shit I'm out.