For the entire two years that he had been around, everypony loved Lt. Charles Taylor. He was a friend to many, and a hero and inspiration to many more. He inspired Ponies to reach for their dreams, and to do everything that they were capable of doing. However, what most ponies have forced themselves to forget, was that Taylor once had a comrade. His name, was James, Ensign William James.

At first, James seemed to be a lot like Taylor. He was a survivor, but unlike Taylor, he had serious problems. While Taylor's issues were more physical, almost all of James's issues were mental. He had severe PTSD, and was extremely paranoid, schizophrenic, and was diagnosed with also possibly having a learning disorder.

While Taylor was well loved and respected, James was somewhat feared. At Taylor's insistence, he did seek mental help, and after spending time in a mental hospital, James emerged a different person. Now, he was quieter, more introverted, and seemed to have an incredible talent for drawing out designs for buildings.

"Wow James, these are really good! You should really consider trying to become an architect!"

"Thanks Taylor. And actually, I was sort-of thinking about that. Maybe my pet mortuary business could be a side business for that."

Taylor shrugged. "Maybe, it's hard to say. However, I do know that you'll have to go to school to become an architect, so maybe your business could help you pay for school."

"Yes, that's a good idea Taylor. Like I said a little bit earlier, I'll talk to Miss Flutters about that when I go and see her tomorrow."

"I hope that this works out for you James, however, if it doesn't just know that it isn't your fault. Most likely, there just isn't a market for something like this here in Equestria. Also, James?"

"Yes Taylor?"

Taylor frowned. "You need to err on the side of caution. There's something not quite right about Miss Flutters."

James looked at him curiously. "What do you mean Taylor?"

"I mean that, I just got this, well, bad vibe about her. Something seems off."

James rolled his eyes. "Taylor, have you ever considered being evaluated for paranoia?"

Taylor shook his head. "This isn't paranoia James. I've gotten these gut feelings about people before, and they usually aren't wrong. I'm not your dad, so I can't tell you what to do, but I can ask you to please be careful. Not everyone is what they appear to be. Ponies are no different."

James nodded slowly. "I'll take your advice Taylor. I know that you wouldn't say something unless it needed to be said, so I'll be careful."

"I know that you will James. Now then, go do what you have to do, and I'll be here waiting for you when you get back."

"Ok, goodbye for now Taylor."

"Goodbye James."

And with that, James left Taylor to go keep his meeting with Miss Flutters, completely unaware of what lay ahead.

Author's Note

Well, here we go. Hang on, as this story is about to get very dark, very fast.

Also, like I've said before, this story is a spinoff, and is not canon to "Bermuda Beginnings". It also will not contain any spoilers for later chapters of Bermuda Beginnings. It's an alternate timeline, if you will. It follows the same path as Bermuda Beginnings until Chapter 33. From then on, everything is different.

I've also changed the characters's personalities a lot. In this story, Taylor is somewhat angrier, and always stands up on his own two feet, and is not afraid to put you in your place. James on the other hand is much more introverted, and has been diagnosed with possible psychopathy.

This story contains language, violence, blood, gore, horror, and is VERY dark. If you do not want to have this story ruin how you see Taylor, James, and the others, then skip this story. If not, then hang on, and brace for impact!

ScarFox out, for now!