Location: The Everglade

The Everglade is the ancient home of the Deer folk as this very kingdom was founded by their earliest ancestors over thousands of years ago with the help of Evera, the Goddess of Nature.

Massive ancient trees make up the small kingdom, each of these trees is home to both the Deer folk and the animals of the forest alike. The Deer folk learned long ago to live in harmony with the forest, to cherish it and act as its caretakers and when the situation requires it, its protector.

The forest was a gift given to the Deer folk by the Goddess Evera, so in return, the Deer folk swore to serve her and the forest for as long as a single tree remains standing.

True to their word, the Deer folk learned long ago to take only the essentials from the forest. Wood from fallen branches and dead trees, stone from the rivers, metal from the ground, and food and water from the nature around them.

The forest is their home and the Deer folk is its protector and caretaker. So that is why when an outsider, one that is not from the forest, intrudes into the Everfree, the Deer folk will do everything in their power to drive them out of the forest.

For many millennia, the Deer folk had conflicts with outsiders seeking to tear down the Everfree for their own selfish gain. Of course, the Deer folk tried to make peace with these intruders, but this peace would eventually be broken by the very intruders they sought peace with.

That is why the Everfree Forest is considered dangerous to the rest of the world, due to the very children of Evera who drive away all outsiders from the forest as they take the form of Timberwolves or other dangerous beasts.

For a millennium since the rise of the Alicorn Monarchs, the forest has been peaceful with few incidents of intruders coming from the nearest pony village of Ponyville.

However, that all changed just mere days ago.

“So that’s what happened to Yessera.”

“Yes, your majesty. She sacrificed her life so that we could bring you our findings.”

Located at the very back edge of the Everglade is one of the few remaining trees of magic in all of Equis. The tree is incredibly ancient, said to be the very first tree of the Everfree Forest and planted by Evera herself. The tree towered over the Everglade with its massive trunk and branches, it’s trunk is snow white but filled with the raw magic of the forest coursing through its very roots. It’s very leaves shadowed the Everglade alongside with the other trees of the Everfree.

This very tree is called The Tree of Evera, and it’s made as the very home to every king of the Everfree since the kingdom’s founding.

King Aspen can be seen sitting on his throne of ancient wood and branches, wearing nothing but a finely woven white kilt lined with gold and golden bracers and greaves. He has snow white fur with light brown fur covering his back, shoulders and all the way to the top of his head where two mighty antlers can be seen on top of his head. His entire torso is bare except for one thing.

The amulet was given to the first king of the Deer folk and wielded by every king afterwards. The Heart of the Everfree, a powerful ruby gem shaped like a heart and attached to his neck with a gold metallic lace.

The very Throne room is located in the heart of the Tree of Evera as magical bulbs of light grew from the very ceiling of the room and illuminating the entire room. Other then King Aspen and the Ranger Illia, there was also a pair of Glade Guards, the most elite protectors of the forest, standing on either side of King Aspen’s throne.

Unlike the Everfree Rangers, the Glade Guard specializes in close quarter combat, their martial skill is rivalled by none. Each and every Glade Guard wears wood red, ironwood armour as it protects their chest, forearms and legs. The armour is made from the bark of a dead Iron Oak trees, lighter than most metals but just as strong. The Glade Guard also wields a spear imbued with the magic of True Strike, able to cut down any opponent regardless if they are wearing armour or not, and a tower shield made from the same material as their armour.

King Aspen frowned. Hours ago he sent three scouting groups of some of the best Everfree Rangers lead by his Captain to locate where the abominations live.

All three scouting groups returned to the Everglade, two of the groups were attacked and driven off by relentless hordes of abominations. Luckily none of the Rangers died but suffered many grievous wounds and are currently being treated by the Druids.

As for the last group lead by Captain Yessera herself, they have succeeded their mission but at the cost of Yessera’s life.

Aspen looked towards the Ranger named Illia. “I see… she has bravely sacrificed herself for the lives of not only your fellow Rangers but for all the Deer folk of the Everglade so that this crucial information may reach my ears. Yessera will be remembered as a hero once we drive out these abominations from the Everfree!” The king stated with conviction.

“YES SIRE!” Everyone in the throne room shouted in reply.

King Aspen stood from his throne. “However, there is still the issue of appointing a new captain for the Everfree Rangers until Yessera’s fate is confirmed. Illia of the Everglade, you have been at Yessera’s side for as long as I can remember, I appoint you as the newest Captain of the Everfree Rangers until we know of Yessera’s fate.” King Aspen decreed.

Illia immediately bowed her head. “Thank you, your majesty! I will strive to be half the Captain Yessera once was.” Illia said. King Aspen nodded. “I have faith in your abilities. Now Captain, summon my war council and have them meet me here. We have much to discuss.”

The newly promoted Ranger Captain bowed her head before rushing out of the throne room. King Aspen sat back down on his throne with a stern frown.

What Illia has told him about the abominations was concerning. These creatures have infested the sacred grounds of the Valley of Evera’s Wrath for their own purposes. The very place where the great demon Tiphon arose to bring death and destruction to all of the worlds.

Were these creatures possibly the same demons? If so, have they returned to finish what they have sought out to do four millennia ago?

King Aspen shook the thoughts from his head. ‘No. It matters not what these creatures are. They have committed the ultimate atrocity against the children of Evera. And as our duty to protect this forest, I will see these abominations punished for their crimes against the forest.’ Aspen thought with firm conviction.

He is then brought out of his thoughts when the doors to the throne room opened to reveal four figures entering the throne room.

King Aspen knew these figures very well as each and every one of these individuals holds important roles within the Everglade.

The first to enter was the newly promoted Captain Illia. The second individual to her left is the captain of the elite Glade Guard and one of his most loyal subjects, Blackthorn.

Blackthorn stands at six feet tall, has brown fur with white fur covering his snout and chest all the way up to his chin. He has orange amber eyes and a pair of antlers on top of his head. He is currently wearing the standard ironwood armour of the Glade Guard as well as wielding the standard issued weapon of the Glade Guard.

To Blackthorn’s left is the Arch Druid of the Druid order, Rosenea. She stands around five feet and seven inches tall, light brown and white fur and aqua blue eyes. She is currently wearing a green veil-like cloak decorated with leaves and blooming flowers. In her left hand is her personal magical staff, a powerful item created from a single branch of the Tree of Evera. The shaft of the white staff has magical inscriptions carved into the wood itself and a green magical crystal attached to the top of the staff.

Rosenea is a doe of considerable beauty. A neat slender frame that exudes an aura of fragility and purity as she seemingly glides over the ground with each and every step. Her demeanour is that of the loving and calm nature of the forest, fitting for one of her position as Arch Druid.

And lastly, standing to the Druid’s left is someone the King was surprised to see.

It is his own son, Bramble, Prince of the Everglade and heir to the throne.

His son is the shortest deer in the room, only standing around five feet tall. He has brown eyes, light brown fur with a white-furred snout and chest and a pair of growing antlers on top of his head. Much like the King himself, Bramble is only wearing a green kilt with a small barrel of blessed water hanging from his neck like a necklace.

As these four individuals approached the throne, other than his son the other three bowed to Aspen before the king gestured then to rise.

“Your highness I have brought the other two members of your war council.” Illia said.

The king nodded. “Excellent work Captain. But why is my son here? He has no business with this council.”

Before Illia could answer, Bramble stepped forth. “Father, I heard from Illia that you are going to fight the abominations of the forest. I want to be a part of this!” Bramble explained. However, King Aspen shook his head. “No my son. You are far too young to join my council, especially this one. Return to your quarters until I call you Bramble.” The king said, leaving no room for an argument.

Before the prince could retort, Blackthorn spoke. “If I may suggest your majesty, why not let Prince Bramble stay for this council. Since he’s the next heir to the throne, this will be a good experience for him to learn the intricacies of combat strategy through your example.” The stag explained much to Bramble’s delight.

Roserea nodded in agreement. “I agree with the Glade Guard. There is no harm if Bramble stays and learn. If I’m not mistaken, you were already planning on taking him with you to the next public council meeting.” The Arch Druid pointed out.

King Aspen frowned in thought. The reasoning behind both the Glade Guard and the Arch Druid supporting his son’s stay was not unknown to him. Both Blackthron and Roserea were appointed by Aspen himself to teach Bramble the finer points of both combat and Druid magic respectively. During such time Bramble bonded with both stag and doe, treating them like family.

Relationship aside, both Blackthorn and Roserea did bring up good points. His son is now at the age where he needs to start learning how to lead the Deer folk of the Everglade once he inherits both the throne and the Heart of the Everfree.

With his decision changed, the king nodded. “Very well. Bramble, you may stay for this council.”

A large smile broke out on his son’s face. “Thank you, father!”

Aspen nodded in reply before turning his attention to the rest of his council. “Now lets us discuss the reason why I have summoned you three.” Aspen said as the atmosphere in the room suddenly turned serious. “Recently, one of the scouting groups that were sent out has located where the abominations have settled their nests.” Aspen explained.

“Where have they nested your majesty?” Blackthorn asked in a serious tone.

King Aspen frowned as he looked at Illia to answer. “They are in the Valley of Evera’s Wrath.” The Ranger answered loud enough for everyone to hear.

As expected, all every deer in the room were shocked at the news. “Father… you don’t think they are…” Bramble said with a worried tone, not even daring to finish his sentence.

The king knew exactly what his son is insinuating. “We don’t know for certain my son. However, we cannot assume they are not here without a reason. If they are truly the very same demons from the time of our ancestors, then we must tread carefully.” King Aspen said in a grave tone.

However, Blackthorn frowned. “Your majesty, I mean no offence, but if these abominations are the same demons that our ancestors fought, then we should muster our forces and eradicate these demons before they attack us!” The stag explained in almost a panicked tone. King Aspen cannot fault his most trusted companion’s behaviour, like every Deer folk the thought of the demon’s returning was nothing but an impossibility, King Glade saw to that many millennia ago.

However, here they are now, discussing the very enemy that may or may not be the demons from the far past.

Roserea placed a calming hand on Blackthorn’s shoulder. “Calm yourself Blackthorn. It’s unfitting for the Captain of the Glade Guard to be so panicked.” Roserea said in a soothing tone.

Immediately Blackthorn collected himself. “I apologize for my behaviour, your majesty.” Blackthorn apologized with a bow of his head.

King Aspen shook his head. “Raise your head Blackthorn. It’s unfitting for one of my most trusted companions to bow his head over something so trivial. What you said does have merit to our current situation. If we are to emerge victorious over these abominations, we must take the initiative before its too late.” King Aspen said in a tone of conviction.

“However, my previous point still stands. We must tread carefully with these creatures, not only because these creatures may be the demons our ancestors fought long ago, but also what has happened to Ranger Captain Yessera that is a major cause for concern.” Aspen explained.

“What happened to sister Yessera? Is she alright?” Bramble asked in clear worry. Like Blackthron and Roserea, Captain Yessera was tasked by the king to teach Bramble the ways of a Ranger and how to use a bow. And like the other two, Bamble bonded with Yessera, looking up to her as an older sister figure.

Suddenly the atmosphere dropped to chilling levels as King Aspen spoke. “After finding the location of the nest, Yessera and her group were ambushed. Everyone but Yessera returned, she valiantly sacrificed herself so that the rest of her Rangers could make it back with this vital information.” King Aspen said in a low tone.

Bramble’s eyes widened in disbelief as his body started to quiver. “B-But she may be still alive right! Sister Yessera is the best Ranger in all of the forest! She may still be alive out there!” Bramble said in a hopeful tone. However, every deer in the room gave the Prince somber looks of pity.

The king himself was no exception. “I’m sorry my son. But you know the truth as well as every deer in this room.” Aspen said in a somber tone.

There was a brief moment of silence before Bramble lowered his head, desperately and failing to hold back his tears.

The king sighed as he stood from his throne and approached his grieving son.

“My son, raise your head.” King Aspen said as Bramble did what he asked.

The King then placed both hands on Bramble’s shoulders, staring his son directly in the eyes. “I know that you held Captain Yessera close to your heart, but instead of mourning her death, live on in her memory. What she has done was not in vain, she gave the entire Everglade and all the deer folk a chance for victory. And I promise you that these abominations will face judgement for what they have done. I swear.”

There was a brief moment of silence as Bramble’s expression turned serious. The young fawn then wiped the tears from his eyes while nodding with newfound conviction. “Yes, father!”

King Aspen couldn’t help but smile at his son. “Good. Now as I was saying before. What happened to Yessera wasn’t just a coincidence.” King Aspen said, much to the confusion of Bramble, Blackthorn and Roserea.

Roserea was the first to speak. “What do you mean by that my King?” She asked in a questioning tone.

Instead of answering, King Aspen looked directly towards the lone Ranger in the room. “Captain Illia, could you care to draw some light to what I’m saying.” The king asked.

Illia nodded before speaking. “As King Aspen explained already, our group was ambushed just after we left the valley. There was no warning, we were immediately attacked on all sides by these creatures. It was as if they were waiting for us, knew that we were there in the first place and planned out an ambush.” Illia explained, soon realization dawned on the others.

Bramble spoke. “If that’s the case… then that means…” The young fawn looked to his father for confirmation.

Aspen nodded to his son. “Yes, Bramble. It’s as I predicted. Someone or something is leading these creatures. And now they are more than aware of us. We must act quickly and with caution.” King Aspen stated as every deer nodded their heads in agreement.

The King looked towards Blackthorn. “Captain Blackthron, summon the Glade Guard and have them gathered outside the Tree of Evera.”

“Yes, your majesty!” Blackthorn replied as King Aspen looked towards the Arch Druid. “Arch Druid Roserea, the same with your Druids.”

“At once your majesty.” Roserea bowed as King Aspen turned to Illia. “Captain Illia, gather all the Everfree Rangers in the Everglade and have them gathered outside the Tree of Evera alongside the Glade Guard.”

“Yes, King Aspen!” Illia exclaimed with a nod.

King Aspen nodded before looking at each individual deer. “Good. You all have your tasks. Dismissed!” King Aspen ordered as his advisors soon left the room, leaving just him and his son.

“Father, are you going to…?” Bramble asked with a worried look.

King Aspen looked down towards his son. “Yes, Bramble. I have an important task for you as well.”

His son immediately perked up from what he said. “What is it, father?” Bramble asked, his tone laced with both curiosity and eagerness.

“I need you to gather every deer in the Everglade for a public announcement. The Deer folk needs to know what happens next.” King Aspen said as Bramble nodded. “Ok father, leave it to me!” Bramble exclaimed as he sprinted out of the room.

An hour later King Aspen is now standing in front of the entrance of the Tree of Evera on top of the stairs overlooking the entire vicinity. Standing beside him are his trusted companions of the war council, including his son, as they stood before a large crowd of gather Deer folk.

Situating between the crowd and the King and his retinue are the Glade Guard, around 300 strong, each standing in a strict military fashion forming a small phalanx at the bottom of the stairs.

Situated all around the surrounding trees is the main force of the Everglade, the Everfree Rangers, numbering a thousand strong.

And finally, before the phalanx of Glade Guards is the vast majority of the Deer folk of the Everglade, easily outnumbering both the Glade Guards and Everfree Rangers combined.

Among the large crowd are the Druids, mingling with the rest of the Deer folk as more of a preference than anything else with the exception of their leader.

With the majority of the populous finally gathered, King Aspen raised his right hand for silence.

In mere seconds the crowd quieted down, listening curiously to what their King has to say.

“My loyal subjects and fellow followers of Evera’s will! I have gathered you all here today to share some grave news!”

Immediately the crowd erupted into whispers of concern and worry but soon stopped when the king raised his hand once again.

“Just hours ago, I have sent out our finest Rangers to find the source of where the abominations originally came from. Our Rangers returned just three hours ago, however, many were injured during this scouting mission, the only one didn’t make it back… was Captain Yessera of the Everfree Rangers.” King Aspen shared.

Immediately there were shocked gasps among the crowd, shouts of disbelief and even few were crying. Captain Yessera was loved by many within the Everglade, her loss is felt by those same individuals.

“HOWEVER!” King Apsen exclaimed, silencing the crowd. “Her death is not in vain! She valiantly sacrificed her life so that her fellow Rangers return to the Everglade to inform us about where the creatures that infest this forest originated from!”

King Aspen could tell he got his people’s attention as the crowd went dead silent. “Their nest is located in the Valley of Evera’s Wrath, the sacred grounds of the Deer folk’s salvation many millennia ago!”

Suddenly the crowd cried out in outrage, some demanding the King himself to do something about it while others cried out in simple rage.

The king raised his hand. “My loyal subjects! I know your anger very well! What these creatures have done is inexcusable! And I promise you, as your king and bearer of Evera’s will! I WILL-”

“YESSERA! CAPTAIN YESSERA HAS RETURNED!”

Like a wave, every deer in the vicinity immediately turned their attention towards the very back of the crowd.

Limping towards the large crowd with her head bowed is the bloodied form of Yessera who is worse for wear. She is currently clutching her left shoulder with her right arm, both were covered in copious amounts of blood.

“SISTER YESSERA! YOU’VE RETURNED!” Bamble shouted out in shock before yelling out to the crowd. “Druids! Sister Yessera is injured! Heal her!”

Immediately several Druids emerged from the shocked crowd as they approached the injured doe, ready to use their magic to heal her. However, Yessera limped past the group of Druids as if they weren’t there, completely ignoring their attempts to gain her attention.

This confused every deer in the vicinity, confusion turned into concern as Yessera continued to ignore the Druids. Eventually one of the Druids grabbed her by her uninjured shoulder to stop her, however, Yessera gave the stag one look as said Druid immediately backed away in fright.

King Aspen frowned. “Your majesty, something’s wrong with Captain Yessera.” Blackthorn whispered with a suspicious frown.

King Aspen nodded in agreement. ‘Something’s not right…’

Yessera continued to slowly limp towards the crowd, every deer looked towards her with worried or concerned looks. Eventually, Yessera reached the crowd, but instead of stopping, she started pushing through the crowd, even when numerous Deer folk tried to stop her.

“Let her through!” King Aspen ordered as the crowd immediately separated, leaving Yessera on a lone path towards the King and his retinue.

“Father! What’s wrong with sister Yessera? She’s acting strangely.” Bramble asked in a concerned tone.

“That is what I’m going to find out.” Aspen said as Yessera soon neared.

Immediately the phalanx of Glade Guards brandished their shields and pointed their spears at Yessera. For the second time since her sudden arrival, Yessera stopped in her tracks.

Now that she was closer, King Aspen noticed Yessera’s strange demeanour. She was standing, gently rocking from side to side with her eyes staring directly towards the ground and mouth slightly opened.

It was as if she was in a trace.

There was a brief moment of silence.

“Yessera! You’ve returned to us!” King Aspen exclaimed.

Yessera didn’t respond.

“Answer me Ranger Captain! Are you alright!” Aspen asked in a serious tone laced with a hint of concern.

Still, Yessera didn’t respond.

“My king, it’s no use. She isn’t responding.” Blackthorn said, stating the obvious.

King Aspen frowned, there is one more thing he could try. Concentrating, his amulet glowed blue with power before he spoke once more. “CAPTAIN YESSERA OF THE EVERFREE RANGERS! YOUR KING CALLS ON YOU!”

This time Yessera reacted, immediately raising and shaking her head out of her trance-like state.

“W-Whaa… where am I?” Yessera said as she looked around her immediate vicinity.

There were sighs of relief. Yessera seemed to return back to normal.

“K-King Aspen! What is going on! Why is everyone gath- ack!” Yessera collapsed onto her knees. It seemed the pain of her injuries is only affecting her now.

Immediately, a couple of Druids approached Yessera and started using their magic to heal her wounds.

As Yessera was getting treated, King Aspen spoke. “Captain Yessera. What happened to you? We all thought you were dead, killed by those abominations.” The king said as Yessera stood, her injuries finally treated. “I-I… I don’t remember much… All I remember was bounding through the forest with the rest of my squad. We then found their nest and-”

Suddenly Yessera’s eyes widened as she gave King Aspen a fearful expression. “I SAW HIM! I MET HIM! HE DID THIS TO ME!” Yessera screamed out almost hysterically.

“Who!? Who did this to you sister Yessera!?” Bramble exclaimed in a worried tone. Yessera was quaking in fear, something that made King Aspen concerned as the Ranger Captain is known for her confidence and fearless leadership. The doe he is seeing right now is reduced to a quivering child.

What has happened to her that made her so afraid?

“Their leader! Their leader is a…” Suddenly Yessera clutched her head as she started thrashing her head around as if she was in great pain.

“Sister Yessera! What’s wrong!?” Bramble exclaimed in a concerned tone. However, his words fell on deaf ears.

“NO! GET OUT OF MY-” Yessera suddenly stood stock still as her arms fell limp to her sides.

King Aspen frowned as he heard Rosera and many others gasped in shock at what they are currently witnessing.

Yessera’s eyes were glowing bright orange.

King Aspen’s expression hardened. It wasn’t the fact that Yessera’s eyes were glowing but the very power that can be felt behind those eyes.

It was unlike anything Aspen has ever felt before, it was definitely not magic or anything from the forest. It felt rawer than the magic of the forest, but at the same time it felt contained and controlled by an unknown force.

It felt unnatural.

King Aspen shook the thoughts from his head as he stared towards Yessera. “Yessera! Are you alright!?” King Aspen asked in a stern tone.

There was a brief moment of silence. Suddenly Yessera, eyes still glowing, raised both of her hands and looked directly at them, moving each of her fingers in silent observation.

Something is wrong.

“Possession successful.” Yessera said in a stoic tone before looking directly towards King Aspen with an emotionless expression. “So you must be the one named Aspen.” Yessera said in an emotionless tone, confusing the others of Aspen’s retinue.

Bramble started to approach Yessera “Sister Yessera! What’s wrong-” However, the young fawn was soon stopped by his father, holding him back with his left arm.

“Father! Why are you-”

“Bramble. That’s not Yessera. She is being controlled.” Aspen said out loud, eliciting gasps of shock amongst the crowd.

King Aspen gave Yessera a stern frown.

“GLADE GUARD! SURROUND YESSERA! KEEP HER CONTAINED!” Blackthorn ordered.

“RANGERS! PREPARE YOUR BOWS!” Illia followed up.

Immediately, the phalanx of Glade Guards broke as they quickly surrounded Yessera in a strict military fashion as the Rangers amongst the trees drew their bows.

Yessera was completely surrounded with no means of escape, yet her expression remained stoic, not breaking their eye contact even for a second.

Once Yessera is secured, King Aspen spoke. “Who are you! And what have you done to Yessera!?” The king demanded to the unknown entity controlling Yessera.

Through Yessera, the unknown entity replied. “Who am I you ask? Well as you already know, I lead the very creatures you and your people attacked a few days ago. As for the one Yessera, I’m using her in order to communicate with you.”

Aspen’s frown hardened. “You’re the one leading those abominations. The cause of all the suffering and death in the Everfree!” King Aspen said in a stern tone.

The entity tilted Yessera’s head. “I’m sorry, but you must’ve mistaken me for someone else. Before today none of my minions nor I have harmed any of you Deer folk.” The entity said in a calm tone.

Before King Aspen could reply, Roserea out of all deer folk spoke. “You dare feign ignorance of the crimes you did to the Children of Evera! How you and your creatures hunted down and murdered thousands in cold blood!” Roserea exclaimed in a rare show of anger.

However, the entity remained stoic. “I will admit, killing the animals within my territory was no simple task for my minions. However, what I did that day was for the sake of my kind.” The entity explained.

King Aspen expression hardened, however, Roserea continued. “You justify the slaughter of thousands of innocent lives for the sake of your kind! Who are you to go against the natural order of nature!” Roserea said, almost shouted.

Roserea loves the forest and all who lives in harmony with it, treating them with all the care a mother would give to their children. So with the death of so many animals of the Everfree, many of whom she personally cared for, she was emotionally devastated. Like any every Druid, she is more in tune with the forest then any being in the world, feeling what the forest feels and all of its natural fauna.

On that day she collapsed due to the amount of emotional pain she felt through the Children of Evera, those that escaped death.

Its only makes sense why she is so furious now.

The entity turned its attention towards the Arch Druid, its glowing eyes boring into Rosereas furious ones. “And who are you to question my motives? Isn’t death part of the natural cycle?” The entity replied back.

This only fueled Roserea’s rage. “What you and your abominations are doing is going against that very same natural order!”

The entity gave a mocking chuckle. “Abominations? Fools... you and your stagnate society cannot even comprehend what we are and what we can do.” The entity said.

Before Roserea could retort back, King Aspen stepped forth cutting the Arch Druid off. “Roserea calm yourself. This thing is only trying to cloud your judgement.” King Aspen said.

Roserea closed her eyes as she visibly calmed herself. “I apologize King Aspen. I lost myself in anger.” Roserea explained.

King Aspen nodded. “That is alright, your anger is justified.” Aspen then turned his attention towards the possessed Yessera. His expression hardened. “As for you. Could you please enlighten us on what you and your creatures are?” The king asked.

There was a brief moment of silence as the entity stared directly into Aspen’s eyes. It felt the entity was searching through the king’s own soul.

Finally, a smile grew on Yessera’s face. “I commend you for your curiosity, King Aspen. Very well then… I’ll humour you.”

The Entity then spread Yessera’s arms. “We come from the very stars you and your people gaze up to. We are the product of hundreds of years of constant evolution and we are constantly seeking to evolve ourselves to newer heights. An individual’s life is meaningless to us for we are numberless and each and every individual is bred for the sole purpose of war and assimilating essence. We are willing to sacrifice thousands to achieve our goals and all those who dare stand in our way will be consumed in a never-ending tide of tooth and blade.”

The entity’s then glowed even brighter as it’s power grew tenfold. “We… are the Zerg Swarm. And we are much, much more than simple abominations.” Soon Yessera’s eyes dimmed back to its normal glow.

A sudden silence permeated throughout the entire vicinity as the Deer folk digested what they just heard as many gave worried and fearful looks towards the possessed doe.

King Aspen couldn’t believe what he just heard, but how can he deny the entity’s claim. The creatures, the entity’s powers, goes against the natural cycle, if they are truly from somewhere amongst the stars, then that brings up another concerning question.

Pondering on these thoughts, King Aspen then asked the one question that has been plaguing his mind. “Then why are you here? What business do you have with our world?”

The entity turned around to gaze at the scenery around him. Soon the entity answered. “Believe it or not, I was sent here by complete accident by a failed assassination attempt by my enemies. Now I’m currently trying to find a way to return back to my home, back to the rest of my race, and in order to do that, I established my Brood in order to return home. It was never my attention to end up in this world, but now I have little choice of the matter.” The entity explained as the possessed body turned to face King Aspen once again.

The Entity continued. “So that’s why it’s imperative for my plans to proceed without any unnecessary distractions. The last thing I want is to go to war with the denizens of this world and waste precious time and resource which could’ve been spent on trying to find my home. Do you understand now, King Aspen?” The entity questioned in a serious tone.

Though this entity was starkly different from them, King Aspen can easily tell this being was telling the truth.

However,… “You have made your point, but my question still stands. if what you say is true then why did you kill the Children of Evera? What point was there to kill all those innocent lives?” King Aspen questioned in a dangerous tone.

The atmosphere grew thick with tension as every deer bored their eyes into the possessed body of Yessera, to see what excuse the entity will come up with.

After a brief moment of silence, the entity spoke. “The reason for killing all those animals was because just weeks ago the very monarchs of Equestria used the animals of this forest to find my Hive cluster, or nest as you come to know it. I subdued the monarchs and their small force and let them off with a warning. Soon afterwards, I ordered the complete eradication of all animal life within my territory.” The entity explained.

However, this caused an angry uproar amongst the crowd, many calling for justice while many others were calling the entity a heartless monster.

Some of the Glade Guard had to hold back the large crowd from reaching the possessed doe, it was soon starting to grow into a riot.

“SILENCE!” King Aspen bellowed out with the help of his amulet. Immediately the crowd calmed down, but still gave the possessed Yessera looks of anger and outright fury.

King Aspen, Blackthorn, Roserea, Illia and Bramble were no different. “So you admit to your crimes against the Children of Evera!” King Aspen exclaimed in a powerful tone.

The possessed Yessera frowned, the entity was displeased. “I made a choice to further my goals of returning to the rest of my kind, the same reason why I have chosen to spare the one named Yessera and the same reason why I’m using her to speak to you.” The entity said, his tone clearly frustrated.

King Aspen frowned with suspicion. “You came to warn us not to interfere with your plans and to leave you and your… Zerg Swarm alone.” King Aspen deduced.

The entity smiled. “In a way yes. I came here to make peace with your kind.”

Immediately the crowd erupted in chatter, some were worried about the outcome of what the being is offering, others were even crying out that the unknown being is lying to them.

King Aspen raised a single hand for silence. He then looked towards each of his advisors before back towards the possessed Yessera. “What are the conditions of peace if we were to make one?” King Aspen questioned cautiously.

“The conditions are very simple. As long as the Deer folk doesn’t take any hostile action or attempt to spy on my Zerg, then my Zerg and I will do the same.” The entity explained as the possessed doe approached the wall of Glade Guards nearest to Aspen.

The possessed Yessera stopped just before the wall of spears, staring directly towards King Aspen with expecting eyes. “So, great King of the Everfree Forest. Do you accept my offer of peace?” The entity asked.

There was nothing but tense silence. Every deer was waiting with baited breath on their king’s final decision.

King Aspen frowned in thought before looking over his people, each and every individual giving him various looks ranging from worry and determination. King Aspen then looked to each of his most trusted advisors, each giving looks of expectations and giving their silent support. He then looked towards his only son, who is giving him a serious look, one filled with determination and an unflinching resolve.

It was at that moment King Aspen was reminded of who he is and what he must do.

So steeling his resolve, King Aspen looked towards, not the possessed Yessera, but to the entity possessing her.

He then spoke, breaking the tense silence. “A kind king would take pity on your situation and accept peace. A wise king would think of his people and accept peace…”

The entity’s expression turned into a stern frown as King Aspen continued.

“However… I am neither of these kings nor will I ever be!” King Aspen exclaimed as his amulet glowed with power. “I am the King of the Everglade! The Heart of the Everfree! And the bearer of Evera’s Will! And you have committed crimes against the very forest I have sworn to protect! I swear here and now that I will see the last of your murderous kind drown in their own blood for what they have done and to never harm another living being of nature EVER AGAIN!” King Aspen roared out as the deer folk cheered out with pride for their king.

However, the possessed Yessera expression morphed into a stern frown, displeased at the king’s decision. “So it’s war then.” The entity said, loud enough for King Aspen to hear.

“Make no mistake murderer! We will be coming for you! You say we will feel the wrath of your Zerg Swarm. But you feel the full MIGHT of the forest against you! And the wrath of the Children of Evera!” King Aspen shouted, eliciting more cheers from the crowd.

The possessed Yessera held her stern frown. “Fool… if it’s war you want, then so be it. But do not forget that I gave you and your people a chance for peace and you have chosen war. The blood that will be spilt will be on your hands.” The entity said.

“Peace? We will have peace when the many lives you have taken are avenged! We will have peace when no child of Evera will ever be harmed by your murderous ways! We will have peace when you are brought before the forest and paid for your atrocities! We will have peace! When the coward who hides behind bodies of the innocent is brought to the light to be judged! Only then, we shall have peace, you murderous cow-”

Suddenly every deer in the vicinity clutched their heads in pain as Yessera’s eyes glowed brighter with power. “Do not mistake my decision for a peaceful path as an act of cowardice… You claim what I did was murder, what I did to those insignificant lifeforms a crime against nature. You cannot even comprehend the slaughter and carnage my Zerg can bring to this entire world, King of the Everfree. But it matters not, you and the rest of the Deer folk will soon face the full wrath of the Swarm.”

And just as suddenly as it started, the telepathic message ended when the orange light faded completely from Yessera’s eyes as she soon collapsed onto the ground.

After recovering from the mental message, King Aspen looked towards the unconscious form of Yessera with a deep frown as the Glade Guard cautiously approached the limp body.

A single Glade Guard inspected Yessera’s body before turning towards King Aspen. “Your majesty, she’s unconscious!” The guard said.

“Take her to the dungeons and have the Druids look over her. We don’t know for sure if she’s still possessed or not!” King Aspen ordered as tow guards carried Yessera’s towards the Tree of Evera.

Soon King Aspen looked towards his people, all giving him looks of determination or worry.

He then spoke. “My loyal subjects! What we have witnessed today is the true enemy of the forest. One that cares not for the lives of our kin and seeks to destroy everything we have sworn to protect!”

Aspen’s amulet then glowed with immense power. “But I promise you this! As my sacred duty as your King and bearer of the Heart of the Everfree! We will root out this evil that has plagued our forest and brought before us to face the full wrath of the Children of Evera! To show this murderer that we will not stand for his vile atrocities! We will show this murderer the full wrath of the EVERFREE!” King Aspen roared out his subjects cried out in support.

“But we will not be fighting alone…”

King Aspen then concentrated. Soon his very antlers are wreathed in immense magical power as his amulet glowed with just as much ferocity. Then a ball of magic, shaped like a heart, formed between his antlers as it continued to glow brighter with every second.

Once he had gathered enough magical power, King Aspen then spoke the ancient incantations that were taught to him by his father, the previous bearer of the Heart. The very same incantations that are taught to every king that has ever ruled the Everglade.

The Call of Nature.

Earth shakes, stone breaks,

The forest is at your door.

The dark sleep is broken,

The forest has awoken.

Roots rend, wood bends,

The forest has answered the call.

Through branches now the wind sings.

Feel the power of the Everfree’s King!

With the final verse complete, waves of light exploded from the Heart as the waves of light washed over the deer folk and continued onto the forest.

Everyone looked in awe at the incredible spectacle happening before them, however, the magic soon faded from the amulet and the King’s antlers as silence permeated the Everglade once more.

The moment of brief silence was soon broken by the ruffling of leaves, the sound of wood bending, crashing and cracking filled the air followed by the numerous loud crashes that shook the earth, reminiscent to the footfalls of dragons stomping through the lands.

These loud footfalls drew closer with each second when finally, emerging from amongst the trees were beings as tall as the trees themselves.

Immediately every deer beside King Aspen himself bowed to their knees. They recognize these beings for they are told through numerous tale and legends of the Deer folk.

They are known as the ancient spirits of the forest, the direct servants of the Goddess Evera.

Each and every one of these powerful spirits bound themselves to a living tree of the Everfree, shaping themselves to resemble the bipedal form of the Deer folk.

However, that is where the similarities end. Their massive bodies are made up of thick gnarled roots coursing with the energies of the forest. Their bodies are also protected by thick wooden bark, grown to be stronger than even steel and further enhanced by the natural energies coursing through their bodies taken directly from the magical energies of the forest.

These spirits are incredibly ancient, the oldest among them have been around long before the Deer folk first served Evera. They are masters of the forest, taught the very first of the Deer folk how to harness the magical energies of the forest and have since aided the Deer folk on numerous occasions.

Occasions, such as now.

As the last of the Spirits emerged from the forest, King Aspen turned towards the still bowing crowd.

“Rise my subjects, rise and look in glory to the true masters of the Everfree.” Immediately the Deer folk rise as they stared in awe at the massive beings surrounding them.

King Aspen continued. “I have called upon the Spirits and all those who dwell in this forest, to aid us in our battle against the evil that has plagued our forest! With them t our side, our victory is assured!”

Concentrating his magic, a large spear made out of wood and covered in magical inscriptions formed in his right hand.

He then raised his spear, the heart flaring with magical power.

“FOR THE EVERFREE!”

“FOR THE EVERFREE!” His subjects roared back, cheering for their king as the Spirits bellowed out in unison.

As the crowd of Deer folk were cheering out their support, King Aspen looked towards the horizon, towards where the murderer was no doubt preparing his army of abominations.

The war of the Everfree has just begun…

Author's Note

And that's a wrap. Now to answer some questions you readers may have.

1. Who are the Children of Evera? Basically, anything that lives in the Everfree Forest, animals, the deer folk, even the plants and trees.

2. Who is King Aspen?
   
   He’s from the comics as well as his son Bramble and Blackthron, I just anthrofied them. Arch Druid Rosera, Yessera, and Illia are my OC’s for this story.

If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions leave them in the comment box below.

See you all next time as the forest of the Everfree marches to war.