The Darkness of Oldby Raccoon WriterChaptersQuick BackstoryChapter 2: Meeting the Draconiqui and Two foals.Interlude 1: Forging of the gear.Chapter 3: Tribals.......Terror......an unforeseen occurrence...Chapter 1: The start of SomethingQuick Backstory“Jason, have a Lighting bolt!” Sarah yelled It was just another day, and another Larp sesh. We had no idea what we would uncover, or where it would send us...but we aren’t really complaining! On the contrary, we are having a blast. You see it happened a long while ago, 2000 years ago to be exact, but we were sent here via a book. “Hey guys! Come look what I found!” I yelled That book to be exact. The Treoir maidir le Díláithriú as I remember it. I think it was gaelic...maybe just Irish? I honestly do not know the language it was written in. I do know that the inside was partly translated. It said that we could transform into what we wanted to be, but at a cost. A transaction of currency was required in order to do anything. We all traded cash, hoping that would let us do what we wanted. “So guys, what should we be?” Felix asked “Nazgul.” Sarah said instantly “Wraiths” I suggested “What do you think Nazgul are?” "I say Sangheili..." Greg said "Nah man, Cyborgs...we'd be immortal!" Felix stated "We'd Also be immortal as Nazgul!" Sarah argued "Yeah, but what about lasers...I bet they don't have that!" "Nope, just magic...which you don't have to RELOAD!" "Yeah, what about when you run out of mana...you would only have a sword!" "Well at least we wouldn't have to recharge our vitals every few years!" Their argument carried on for a while...and we did eventually put it to a vote. Nazuls won with four, second was Sangheili with three, and tie for last with Robots and cyborgs with one each. After that we had to select a location. What we did know is that we would be there instantly...what we did not know is that it only took one person to think of a location for it to transport us to. So, what happened next should be self explanatory, if not here is what happend. Joe thought of Equestria, so we were sent to Equestria. That’s how we came to be here. Chapter 2: Meeting the Draconiqui and Two foals.THEY ARE ALMOST HERE!" An Uruk shouted "OPEN THE INNER GATES, AND GIVE THE MEDICS SPACE TO WORK!" I shouted "EVERYONE ELSE, PLEASE STAND BACK!" Things ran like clockwork, the Sentries guided the Draconiqui through to the Medics. The Draconiqui in question looked like they were...well...turning to dust. Little specs of them floated away, like ashes. We had never seen anything like this, and the funny thing was it was only affecting the adults. The children looked fine, no damage to them whatsoever. The medics checked them physically, and couldn't find a source as to what could be happening to them. I checked their magic, only to find it was dwindling. Like a flickering candle, as compared to the infants and toddlers whose magic was like a roaring bonfire. Something was slowly dissipating it, and as a result making them dissolve into nothingness. "Who did this to you?" I asked One of the teenagers of the group looked up at me, malice plain as day on his face, and in his eyes. "The Ponies." He said, his voice seething with disgust, and hatred "Those damned Equines drove us from our home, and the Unicorns cursed us." "Cursed you with what?" "Chaos." He stated "They saw it fitting for us, to curse us with the chaotic magic we fought so hard to contain." "Let me guess, your bodies are made of Harmonic Magic?" "Mostly, it's what keeps us held together. Not many of us are going to survive..." "...due to the makeup of our magic having such a significant tie in with our physical structures." A teenage Female Draconaquus said. "There is a way to stop the process...but that is about a two in one-hundred-thousand chance of it actually working. Even with those odd's, our species is going to be in the double digits with no way of using magic unless we want to make things chaotic. We could potentially reverse it, but that could kill us before it worked." "Well, since this may be the first and last time we'll meet, may I ask your names?" "I am Eris." "I am Eric." "Well then, let's get this situation under control. Eris, please tell the medics what you told me, and work with them so that we can keep fatalities to a minimun. Eric, what did these equines look like?" "Mix of the three tribes, all armored, but uncoordinated. Unicorns wouldn't heal anyone but other unicorns, so it's safe to say the feuds between the three are still going strong. They numbered in the hundreds of thousands from what I saw, and they looked starved." He stopped to take a breath "There was also a noticeable trace of Wendigo magic, so I believe that their stupid feud drew them into the ‘Valley of Peace’...their original land, and they froze it.” “Then if the feud is continuing here, we will need to put a shield over Minas Morgul. Rûk, get everyone inside the walls and armor up the trolls. If you see the equestrians, send up a flare. When the rest of the nine get here, tell them to put up a barrier to keep out freezing weather. Sûth, walk with me.” I said making my way to the Drake pens. “Yes sire, what is it?” He said immediately flanking me “I need you to gear up my drake. I need to see how numerous their forces are, and I do not want to be cornered on foot.” I said “Yes sire, right away.” About fifteen minutes later, yeah they work fast, my drake was armored with plate metal enchanted to make my drake look like a part of the sky, armed with wing blades that could potentially cut through magic, and strapped with a saddle that felt like heaven. “Alrighty, shall we drake?” I ask *Rawr* “I really need a name for you.” I said *Rawr* “Off we go!” I said, pulling the reigns slightly, getting the drake to move forward towards the exit of the den. Upon reaching it, the drake took flight. We followed the trail of decaying magic left behind by the Draconiqui to what appeared to be three separate camps, one on a giant cloud formation, one on a hillside, and one by a forest. All three were heavily guarded, and all three had a fair amount of civilians in the middle of all of the camps were...two Pegasi. Both were very young, and very thin. My mind was confused, because I swore I had seen them before. It took me a few moments, and a couple of circles, till my mind finally found an image. A white Pegasus with pink hair and kind eyes, draping a wing over a smaller blue Pegasus with indigo hair who was sleeping. It was the two sisters who would ascend to alicorns and unite the three tribes...Celestia and Luna. When I realized this, I did not think. I acted. I had my drake descend into a divebomb, tilting slightly, and I scouped the two up in one arm. I believe they had passed out from either terror or exhaustion, because for the duration of the trip they did not struggle. I willed my drake to fly back to Minas Morgul so I could assess their injuries, if they had any...and they did. Both were suffering from malnutrition, Luna and Celestia both had scars which could be made only by a whip...or someone with really large hands. Celestia’s left wing was broken, and both had quite a few missing feathers. “Such abuse...who could have done this to you?” I ask myself When we arrived at Minas Morgul, I brought them to my room and ordered roasted sweet corn, and medical ambrosia. I layed them down on my bed, and set their plates right in front of the bed. I sat in the shadows waiting for them to wake up, and when they did they were confused. “Tia, where are we?” Luna asked “No Idea Lulu. But whoever brought us here left food.” Celestia said “Could it be poisuned? Another punhment?” Luna asked “That could be why it’s glowing slightly…” Celestia said with a scowl That is when I spoke up, making my voice echo around the room. “That glow would be the medicinal ambrosia I applied to it. Please feel free to dig in, you are safe here.” Both looked around, spooked. Luna was bold enough to ask “Who are you, and where are we?” “One of the Nine, and you are in Minas Morgul.” I replied “...may we see you?” Celestia asked after a considerable amount of silence Now it was my turn to be silent, should I? I am not the scariest first thing they could see, but I still am plenty scary. “Please?” Luna added, and that got me. I couldn’t say no to her. “Very well, I apologize for startling you in advance.” I said, leaning forward into the light. They gasped, and stared at me with both awe and fear. “Now, please eat. I’d hate for you to die under my protection.” I said, and they obliged immediately. While they ate, a light golden aura formed around them. The scars were covered by a new coat of fur, feathers slowly grew back, and Celestia’s wing set back into place. The only thing the ambrosia could not fix was them looking starved beyond all recognition. That is what the corn was for. They devoured it in about fifteen seconds...give or take, and I couldn’t blame them. When I found out who did this to them, I would see to it they died in agony and lived their afterlife in eternal torment that even Satan would find terrifying. “What should we call you?” Luna asked “Chris, or Seven if you prefer.” I said. My childhood nickname was Seven, due to me receiving seven scars on my first day of school...I tried to climb a tree and fell, luckily some rocks broke my fall. Another idea came to mind. “Or, Moron. Any of those three.” I got them to smile a bit “Okay, Seven. Why did you help us? What is in it for you?” Celestia asked “For me? Nothing, other than a warm feeling in my soul. For you? A safe place to sleep, food, a basic education, new faces, and the option of specialized training.” I said “Speculized Traning?” Luna asked “How to fight, how to tame creatures, how to make potions, how to identify poisons based on smell and taste. Only if you want to, that is.” I said “That sounds like traning for Woalty.” Luna said “Hehehe...I suppose it does Luna, I suppose it does.” “You didn’t say why you helped us.” Celestia stated “...I’ll give you a hint. One word, starts with k and ends in ness.” I said “You expect me to believe you did it out of kindness?” “No, but that is why. Well, that and one other reason I shall not tell until you are older.” I said “Extremely older.” “How old?” “Spoilers. Now, if you aren’t exhausted...would you care to walk with me? If you are going to be living here, then you might as well know some the more notable areas of Minas Morgul. If you don’t want to stay then you are free to leave, I will pack you a weeks worth of food, water, and an escort to the edge of the Everfree Forest. If you leave, and should you chose to return...you need only enter the forest. One of the lookouts will see you, and will bring you here. So, unless you wish to leave, this is your new home.” I said I watched as they took it in. Luna seemed happy, almost joyous at living here. Celestia seemed suspicious, and yet relaxed at the same time. I spun around on one heel and opened the door, gesturing for them to follow. Luna followed me immediately, Celestia followed most likely to insure her sister would not be harmed. I couldn’t blame her, the things they must have been through would warrant some suspicion on something as good as this. Upon leaving the castle, we were approached by an olog. Both of them scampered behind me, using me as a shield. “Monster!” Luna said. “Bruz, any sign of the Wendigos?” “Yes sir, the temperature is starting to drop...and by drop I mean someone killed the heat. The shield is holding, but it is taking a bit of a beating.” “Well then, have some of the drakes prepare to light fires. Only in case of emergency. Oh, and before I forget we have some equines on the premises. Luna, Celestia, meet Bruz.” I said shifting to allow both parties to see each other. “Hi there!” Bruz said Both ponies waved a wing “It’s the scar, ‘init?” Celestia nodded “No worries, it scares Uruks as well. Now, I’ve got to see a man about some drakes.” I waited till he was gone to say this. “No, they don’t get bigger...but they do get even scarier. No need to worry, they are about as deadly as a fly to you...unless you try to kill them, or me. If any of them harass you, let me know and I will take care of it.” I said. “Now, you will live here in the castle. Choose a room and decorate it to hearts content. Over to the left, where Bruz is going, is the drake pens. If you feel like flying on the back of something, then that is where you go. The school is down the street, right around that corner...no not that one, the one on the left.” I said pointing. “You will start attending there next week. If you find yourself bored, the library is across from it. It has everything, Non-Fiction, Fiction, History, Fantasy, and a whole lot more I could list...but I won’t. I haven’t explored all of Minas Morgul, but I will tell you this. The Uruks and Ologs are always making and improving things here and there, and one day you and them will be as close as family. Now, any questions?” “Where is the chamber pot?” Luna asked “Go back into the castle, take a left, and look for the door with the purple sign on it.” I said, and both of them went rushing off ‘Well, since they won’t be the problem...who will?’ I thought to myself “Sire, the Wendigos are getting stronger.” Kruth theShadow said, making me jump “I am going to attach bells to your ears, just so I can hear you coming.” “Wouldn’t work, but the thought is appreciated.” I audibly sigh, and say “Well then, rest is out of the picture. Get the Mystics to start pouring energy into the barrier, I will gather the others.” ‘And hopefully not accidentally make the mane six not a thing...I love Applejack goddamit.’ I thought to myself, making my way to Joe’s laboratory to make an order, and planning to go to the workshop to make some things. Interlude 1: Forging of the gear.After a quick stop at Joe’s, I left with two very special vials for one very special projects. From many, many tests Joe and I found that mixing Timberwolf resin, and Drake blood, with mostly any kind of powedered gemstone made a neat misty green compound. This compound mixed with metal in a smelt would birth a metal that could stand extreme temperatures, would not oxodize, and was extremely durable. You could slam a seventy ton bolder going Mach 8 into it and barely dent it. However, this means you would have to get it right the first time, because refitting is out of the question and melting it down would take forever. Growth enchantments could be used to keep it fitted to the users form, as long as it had some form of DNA for it to bind itself too...and wouldn’t you know it, my cloak had fur from both all over it from them hiding behind me. So, all that was left would be to make it using measurements I didn’t have. Simple fix really, make them using pony mannequins. Those were actually easier to procure that I initially thought. Ponies were really wasteful with certain things, so all I had to do was wait for one to be left out in the open. I prepared a forge, two smelters, and two beakers for their armor. Whilst making the first compound, I added Luna’s fur to it. It changed color to dark blue. The second compound, when mixed with Celestia’s fur, made a golden-ish color. ‘Why am I not surprised.’ Adding them to the smelters was a whole new level of weird. When added, the smelters started faintly glowing. I disregarded it, and waited for the metal and mixture to bind. While I waited I tried to decide what weapons to give them. “For Tia...definitely a claymore. For Luna...a scythe?” I muttered to myself “Maybe a- what the hell!?” I screamed said slightly louder than normal. The glowing on both had grown to be more like a lighthouse bulb. Knowing how giant glowing things tend to work, I teleported out of the room. *Crack-Boom* *Crack-Boom* I apparently did so just in time, as two explosions rocked the tower. I teleported back in, and saw nothing but smoke and a faint light. I punched holes in the wall made a few windows for the smoke to escape through. When I did that I saw the two smelters had indeed exploded, and in their remnants were two sets of filly sized armor….floating and glowing filly sized armor. “Well then, fuck you too logic.” I said. looking around, I saw bits of shrapnel lodged into stone walls, the wooden door, the gorram weapons, and the gorram Orc...wait. “You okay?” “Yeah boss, it only went through three arteries.” “Only three?” “....okay maybe five.” “Get to a medic...now.” “Okay boss.” Author's Note Eh...heheheh....I forgot to hit publish on this...so it’s been sitting here collecting dust.....sorry folks. Chapter 3: Tribals....Cas and I were sitting on a rather comfortable sofa beside the two sisters beds. Luna and Tia had a nightmare, and came to our room. Yeah, all nine of us have a room...since we don’t really need sleep, all we do is ~~play D&D~~ make important decisions which could affect us for ages to come. Anyways, they came in because they had a nightmare. I read them several urukified versions of mother goose stories. Cas had fallen asleep as well, bored to death I guess. I just sat there, thinking...and one thought kept popping into my mind. ‘Minas Morgul, we need to rename it....seriously, if we are hoping to come off as peaceful to the other races then we need another name for it. We could call it Minas Ithil again, but that would be way to easy. Think Jason, think.’ “Boss, I come bearing news.” An Uruk with a cloak said “Ah, Azril...is it good or bad?” I ask “Unfortunately it’s both sir, The Wendigo seem to have been driven off by a powerful surge of magic, however the three tribes seem to of taken notice of our existence. As we speak they have what seems to be emissaries heading through the forest to us.” “Damn...I was hoping to have more time. Open the gates to them when they arrive, and make sure they are well accommodated...oh, and bring me a Tsuchigumo.” I said “...are you sure you want one of them boss?” He asked, slightly worried “We may need to prove a point on how dangerous the Everfree is to keep them out, so yes.” I replied, playing with a dagger absentmindedly. “Alrighty boss, should I prepare the usual containment team?” “Heavy Riot gear this time, we’ll prove a point faster that way.” “It shall be done.” Azril said before fading into the shadows, leaving me with only the light snoring of Cas “Cas, wake up. We have guests coming.” “....five more minutes....” “Okay then, I’ll terrorize the pony diplomats without you.” “I’m up.” ~Approximately two hours later~ Me and Cas were sitting side by side at a round table, waiting in the diplomats to be escorted to our makeshift meeting area...once they were there, and throughly peeved at us being late, we would teleport into the room. The creature I had requested was delivered to the room about 15 minutes after our guests had arrived, as was the Squad. The squad consisted of six Orcs, all adorned full plate metal. Four of them armed with shields and spears, two armed with crossbows, and all of their attention would be focused on a draped cage. The creature in the cage, smart as she stated she was, had been caught stealing from one of our armories. I had offered her freedom if she participated in a little demonstration, and she agreed. This demonstration, it was going to be fun... Author's Note Yes, it’s a cliffhanger...no, it wasn’t worth the wait...and yes, I know I suck at this. I will do my best to insure the betterment of my next chapter, until then here’s this. Writers block sucks sometimes. ...Terror...After about an hour of waiting, the diplomats had finally arrived. Nine in total...three Pegasi, three Earth Ponies, and three Unicorns. The Pegasi were in metal plate armor, the Unicorns were in regal dress...mostly....and the Earth Ponies looked like farmers. Once seated, the Uruk escorting them left the room...leaving only the containment team and the cage. We stepped into the shadows of our room, and out of the shadows of the meeting area. “Good evening, mares and stallions...welcome to our humble capital. Do not bother trying to introduce yourselves, I have little time as it is. May I ask why it is you have decided to visit?” I ask, making my voice echo around the room After the intial shock of my disrespect wore off, a Pegasus, Commander Hurricane, was the first to respond “We noticed odd creatures with weapons roaming around the forests, and making fortifications. We were worried that you may be plotting something.” “Oh...and what might that be?” Cas asked “The Pegasi are worried you may be plotting some form of invasion, that you may be allies of those abominations we pushed out of the valley.” A Unicorn, I think Princess Platinum, replied ‘Oh....oh okay...’ “What abominations would those be? The Draconaquui?” I ask “Because they fled to us, and because of your blind xenophobia and absolute hypocrisy the adults among them are dying. The children are more then likely have magic powers they can’t control, and where will their parents be? Oh that’s right...dead. The only reason we have not attacked you, is because it would effect something far greater than all us.” “Oh...and what’s to stop you from attacking us anyway?” The same Unicorn asked...definitely Platinum. “I am amazed that you managed to drive off the Wendigos...you are walking generators of prejudice. What stops us is the forest itself.” I reply “....how can a forest stop you?” One of the Earth Ponies, Chancellor Puddinghead, finally asked “It is less the forest, and more it’s inhabitants. Guards, if you would please bring the creature forward.” Whilst they were wheeling it over, I added “Do not trust your eyes, this creature is a master at deception.” It was placed in the middle of the table, where I threw the cloth off of it...revealing a bloodied, terrified Pegasus mare marred by scars and missing patches of fur. “Please, help me! These monsters are going to kill me!” She begged, tears streaming down her face. Each equine attempted to move, only to find themselves rendered immobile. Runes in the backs of the chairs were glowing. “Release her, you fiend!” “Oh I will, I promised I would after this demonstration after all.” I said, drawing my sword, and stepping onto the table. As I sauntered over to the cage, the guards got ready to rush to my aid. I gestured for them to stand down. It was at that point the Tsuchigomo kicked the panic into overdrive, probably thinking I meant a different kind of release. “Please, he’s going to kill me! Get me out of this cage!” When I reached the cage, I raised my blade. “I thank you for the demonstration...now, to keep my end of the bargain.” And with that I brought my blade down...shattering the lock on the cage. “Now if you would, please drop the disguise.” It took her a moment, but she did drop it...revealing a spider like creature that was barely contained by the confines of the cage. It had the legs and body of a spider...however it had the head of a dragon, three equine-like eyes, and a maw of razor sharp teeth. “This,” I started, turning to the now frozen ponies “is what we call a Tsuchigumo. They are an intelligent shapeshifting predator race. They can disguise as anyone, anything, and they are one of only two races you can bargain for your life with. Everything else will kill and eat you without a second thought. They are one of the many threats we worry about in the Everfree Forest. Any questions?” Author's Note The Picture here was not made by me...I have no idea who it was made by, however I am fairly certain I couldn’t pronounce it even if I found it. I based the Tsuchigumo’s appearnce around this form, as I find it the most terrifying. Just wanted y’all to know...see you in the comments/next chapter. ...an unforeseen occurrence...I waited, by Gaia I waited for a long time for one of them to answer. Hopping off of the table, I began walking back to my seat. That’s when Princess Platinum snapped out of her stupor. “I have one question...what are you intentions?” Princess Platinum asked. That made me pause, and turn...even without a face you could tell I was expressing disbelief. “I thought I made myself abundantly clear, I want no equines wandering in the territory we own setting up towns. I do not want to fight a genocide, but I will happily do so.” I stated Then one of the Pegasi piped up “You meant a war...right?” “No, I mean genocide. Sure, you equines may have unity, but that’s all. We have magic users to counter your Unicorns, drakes to burn your Pegasi’s feathered wings, and swarms of Uruks and Ologs to put your Earth Ponies six feet under." I stated mater-of-factly "So I will give you this one and only warning. Should you, at any point in time, think that taking our land is a good idea...then I will personally lead the army that kills you all. Do we have an understanding?" I ask "You seem cold to us...other than the Draconiquuai, what did we do to offend you?" One of the Pegasi asked "Yeah, I'm keen to know why you're so aggressive as well. It ain't like you." Cas said, her voice laced with concern "Earlier this morning, I flew over your three encampments to assess what threat you could potentially pose...however I was distracted by a sight so heinous I am afraid I cannot see your kinds in a positive light." I said They all paused. "Might I ask what that sight was?" Princess Platinum asked. "Two Pegasi fillies, extremely malnourished, and scarred beyond belief. It looked like they had been tortured. I have since taken them in under my protection, and here they will remain until they decide otherwise." I said. There was outrage strewn across the faces of all in attendance, with the exception of Commander Hurricane, and Princess Platinum. They bore looks of worry. "Were their wings broken?" Hurricane asked "Yes, one of them had their left wing broken. You know who did this, don't you?" I ask "Yes, and she has since been executed for her crimes." Princess Platinum said "Well then, a small amount of justice is served...may I be so bold to ask of you a favor, princess?" I ask "Only if it is a means for peace between us and the other two tribes." She declared "I find your terms to be satisfactory. I may send a pair of magic users your way for...specialized training. I will give them a name to utter, it will be your way of knowing they were sent by me. Does this sound reasonable?" I ask "Why yes, yes it does. Give me the name." "Ains Ooal Gown." I said "Very well...I shall remember it. Now, is there anything else you two would like to say to our hosts?" The Princess asked the other two tribe leaders "My scouts noticed a chunk of really fertile farmland within the forest, may we transport a bit of the soil back to our farmlands?" Puddinghead asked "That depends...Cas, get a map." "You mean-"*Snap*"-this map?" She asked, waving the thing infront of my 'face' I shook my head, took the map, and opened it up. "Point to the location." I said The Chancellor pointed to a section of land that held great significance to the continuation of the timeline, the area in which the Tree of Harmony resides. "I will have the Uruks in the area harvest enough soil to fill a cropland." I said "We could gather it ourselv-" "No, you cannot. It is Basilisk territory, your scouts are lucky to be alive." I lied "...Very well, you know where our temporary housing is, have them deliver it there." Puddinghead said I waited yet again for another question, and after about two minutes of nothing, I declared the meeting adjourned. As they left the room, I was thinking about what to do next...until I felt a rune on my wrist activate. A 'sight' rune, one I put near the Tree of Harmony. It detected a young...well, something. Whatever it was had tapped into the source of the tree's power...which could mean two things. Option A) Discord had been made manifest, or Option B) one of the two sisters had managed to leave without a single sentry seeing her, navigated the nearly maze-like forest, and finally find the tree without being attacked by any of the local wildlife or local plantlife, I was betting on option b. Meanwhile with Joe Pov: Joe Location: Joe's Laboratory "The runes are holding, magic matrices are stable...I think we did it master!" Gruk said "It would seem that way...only one way to find out. Automaton, activate." I said to the mass of glowing metal, receiving the reply of fuck all. To prevent a potentially damaging explosion, I cut the flow of magic flowing into the would-be automaton. "Blast...I was sure we had it that time!" Gruk said, shaking her head in disappointment "I agree with her, this was the thirty-third attempt to create an automaton using only magical means." Danny said "Wat an atomton?" A familiar small, blue Pegasus asked "Artificial life." I replied "Wat aretifical?" Luna asked "Hmmm...something made by another thing, I guess." I said "out of non-organic materials." "Yu know big wurds." Luna stated "Yup, that's Joe for you. Either he explains it using all the fifteen syllable words in the dictionary, or he doesn't explain it at all." Danny said, laughing. Luna joined him in his buoyant laughter, and it echoed through my lab. "Hehehe...yup." I said, giggling a bit. However, my laughter was short-lived as two runes lit up on my wrist. One was a magical influx warning spell, and the other was a magic monitoring rune. My eyes darted around the room looking for the source...they eventually landed on little Luna. She had wisps of magic flowing all around her, and she was beginning to float. "Wat is going on?" She asked "Why am I flying without flappin my wings?" My mind was scrambling to find a reason, when it hit me, she was ascending...this meant she would temporarily be a flashbang. "Everyone, avert your gazes and cover your ears! We have a magic flash incoming!" I yelled to the others in the lab before taking my own advice. PHOOOM I was expecting a wave of nearly pure harmonic energy to wash over me. PHOOM ...what I wasn't expecting was wave of pure chaotic energy to follow it... "AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!" ...Nor was I expecting insane laughter. Author's Note Managed to extend this chapter, and I gave it a somewhat better cut off point...I know, I'm kind of rushing the plot a bit, but there's not much I can do with pre-chaos Equestria. So, anyways, I hope you enjoyed this chapter and I will look forward to making more. See y'all in the next chapter! Chapter 1: The start of SomethingI awoke with a start, my 'eyes' seeing nothing but blurry shapes. "Joe? Sarah? Ken? Cas? Anybody?" I called out "Well look who woke up...welcome back to the land of the living, kinda." Cas said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Give the blur a few moments to clear, and let me be the first to welcome you to Equestria!" "...Equestria?" I ask hesitently "Yep" Sarah says, startling me a bit "Joe." "Yup." "Year?" "2000 years before harmony, 1000 before Chaos. We kinda rule this area." I heard Joe say "Which Nazgul are we?" "The Shadow of War versions I believe." Danny said Upon hearing that, my vision returns to me. "Yeah...the originals didn't have these in the movies." I say, gesturing to the metal masks/face-plate things on my eight friends. Looking at them I can tell Cas and Sarah did not lose their more feminine forms, and looked like the two sister Nazguls from the Galadreil DLC. Joe and Fred had Greatswords, Felix had a Hammer, Cas and Sarah had those Chain Scythe things, I had a Longsword, Sam had a Bow, Danny had a Spear, and Greg had a quarterstaff. "Final question...where are we?" "Minas Morgul." Greg said "Really? You serious?" Cas asked "I decided to screw waiting and took a peek. We are in Minas Morgul, no Orcs or Gondorians. It's just...empty." He said, Shuddering. "We could recreate orcs, use them as citizens" Joe said, noticing everyone staring at him he added "They weren't bad to begin with, Sauron just twisted them into what they were." "Even if we wanted to, how would we do it? We don't exactly have a Biolab to preform this shite." I said "Simple. We combine our Magic into one beam, think about what we want it to form, and presto...at least thats how it should work in theory" Joe said "Unless you want to maintain the City?" "What theory ?" "We displaced each other, which means if we say we can do it...we can do it. I think...that's the gist of what I got from reading the book." We all looked around at each other in disbelief...I think...hard to tell with the masks. However I know that most of us were still willing to put in the extra mile...that was until Joe added "Giant spiders and insects may be a thing during this time." "One Orcish Adam and Eve coming up." Cas said, getting up almost immediately "Yeah I'm with her on this...I would rather not be giant maggot food." Greg said "...Agreed." Sarah said "While I like Spiders and the Like, I think I shall change my vote to pro-orc." "Yeah, fuck spiders." Danny said. 500 years later "Sir, an Olog by the name of Ar-Janek is here to see you." an Uruk said "Well send him in, if he's here then something is amiss." "Right away boss." He says, opening the door to show an Olog with what looked like a metal beard. "Ar-Janek, It is good to see you friend. How goes your settlement?" I ask "Pretty good if I do say so myself, we could use more of a guard force though. The Manticores are getting a bit ballsy." He replied "I'll send Danny with some Ologs immediately, do you need anything else old friend?" I ask "Nah boss, I have everything else handled." He said with a grin "Well then, good day." I said, returning to my work. "JASON, WE NEED YOU IN THE MAIN HALL NOW!" I heard Joe yell Snap I teleport, seeing the other eight I ask "What is it...what happend?" "Draconaquuai, a ton of them, are heading this way. Guards from the outlying settlements say they look injured." Danny said "Well then...Joe, get the healers. Sarah and Cas, get some Food, Water, whatever we can spare. Danny, Greg, and Fred, you need to make sure whatever attacked them isn't following. If it is, push them back or relive them of their lives. Felix, Sam, you're with me...we need to keep the streets clear." I said "Now go, we have a species to save."
Quick Backstory“Jason, have a Lighting bolt!” Sarah yelled It was just another day, and another Larp sesh. We had no idea what we would uncover, or where it would send us...but we aren’t really complaining! On the contrary, we are having a blast. You see it happened a long while ago, 2000 years ago to be exact, but we were sent here via a book. “Hey guys! Come look what I found!” I yelled That book to be exact. The Treoir maidir le Díláithriú as I remember it. I think it was gaelic...maybe just Irish? I honestly do not know the language it was written in. I do know that the inside was partly translated. It said that we could transform into what we wanted to be, but at a cost. A transaction of currency was required in order to do anything. We all traded cash, hoping that would let us do what we wanted. “So guys, what should we be?” Felix asked “Nazgul.” Sarah said instantly “Wraiths” I suggested “What do you think Nazgul are?” "I say Sangheili..." Greg said "Nah man, Cyborgs...we'd be immortal!" Felix stated "We'd Also be immortal as Nazgul!" Sarah argued "Yeah, but what about lasers...I bet they don't have that!" "Nope, just magic...which you don't have to RELOAD!" "Yeah, what about when you run out of mana...you would only have a sword!" "Well at least we wouldn't have to recharge our vitals every few years!" Their argument carried on for a while...and we did eventually put it to a vote. Nazuls won with four, second was Sangheili with three, and tie for last with Robots and cyborgs with one each. After that we had to select a location. What we did know is that we would be there instantly...what we did not know is that it only took one person to think of a location for it to transport us to. So, what happened next should be self explanatory, if not here is what happend. Joe thought of Equestria, so we were sent to Equestria. That’s how we came to be here.
Chapter 2: Meeting the Draconiqui and Two foals.THEY ARE ALMOST HERE!" An Uruk shouted "OPEN THE INNER GATES, AND GIVE THE MEDICS SPACE TO WORK!" I shouted "EVERYONE ELSE, PLEASE STAND BACK!" Things ran like clockwork, the Sentries guided the Draconiqui through to the Medics. The Draconiqui in question looked like they were...well...turning to dust. Little specs of them floated away, like ashes. We had never seen anything like this, and the funny thing was it was only affecting the adults. The children looked fine, no damage to them whatsoever. The medics checked them physically, and couldn't find a source as to what could be happening to them. I checked their magic, only to find it was dwindling. Like a flickering candle, as compared to the infants and toddlers whose magic was like a roaring bonfire. Something was slowly dissipating it, and as a result making them dissolve into nothingness. "Who did this to you?" I asked One of the teenagers of the group looked up at me, malice plain as day on his face, and in his eyes. "The Ponies." He said, his voice seething with disgust, and hatred "Those damned Equines drove us from our home, and the Unicorns cursed us." "Cursed you with what?" "Chaos." He stated "They saw it fitting for us, to curse us with the chaotic magic we fought so hard to contain." "Let me guess, your bodies are made of Harmonic Magic?" "Mostly, it's what keeps us held together. Not many of us are going to survive..." "...due to the makeup of our magic having such a significant tie in with our physical structures." A teenage Female Draconaquus said. "There is a way to stop the process...but that is about a two in one-hundred-thousand chance of it actually working. Even with those odd's, our species is going to be in the double digits with no way of using magic unless we want to make things chaotic. We could potentially reverse it, but that could kill us before it worked." "Well, since this may be the first and last time we'll meet, may I ask your names?" "I am Eris." "I am Eric." "Well then, let's get this situation under control. Eris, please tell the medics what you told me, and work with them so that we can keep fatalities to a minimun. Eric, what did these equines look like?" "Mix of the three tribes, all armored, but uncoordinated. Unicorns wouldn't heal anyone but other unicorns, so it's safe to say the feuds between the three are still going strong. They numbered in the hundreds of thousands from what I saw, and they looked starved." He stopped to take a breath "There was also a noticeable trace of Wendigo magic, so I believe that their stupid feud drew them into the ‘Valley of Peace’...their original land, and they froze it.” “Then if the feud is continuing here, we will need to put a shield over Minas Morgul. Rûk, get everyone inside the walls and armor up the trolls. If you see the equestrians, send up a flare. When the rest of the nine get here, tell them to put up a barrier to keep out freezing weather. Sûth, walk with me.” I said making my way to the Drake pens. “Yes sire, what is it?” He said immediately flanking me “I need you to gear up my drake. I need to see how numerous their forces are, and I do not want to be cornered on foot.” I said “Yes sire, right away.” About fifteen minutes later, yeah they work fast, my drake was armored with plate metal enchanted to make my drake look like a part of the sky, armed with wing blades that could potentially cut through magic, and strapped with a saddle that felt like heaven. “Alrighty, shall we drake?” I ask *Rawr* “I really need a name for you.” I said *Rawr* “Off we go!” I said, pulling the reigns slightly, getting the drake to move forward towards the exit of the den. Upon reaching it, the drake took flight. We followed the trail of decaying magic left behind by the Draconiqui to what appeared to be three separate camps, one on a giant cloud formation, one on a hillside, and one by a forest. All three were heavily guarded, and all three had a fair amount of civilians in the middle of all of the camps were...two Pegasi. Both were very young, and very thin. My mind was confused, because I swore I had seen them before. It took me a few moments, and a couple of circles, till my mind finally found an image. A white Pegasus with pink hair and kind eyes, draping a wing over a smaller blue Pegasus with indigo hair who was sleeping. It was the two sisters who would ascend to alicorns and unite the three tribes...Celestia and Luna. When I realized this, I did not think. I acted. I had my drake descend into a divebomb, tilting slightly, and I scouped the two up in one arm. I believe they had passed out from either terror or exhaustion, because for the duration of the trip they did not struggle. I willed my drake to fly back to Minas Morgul so I could assess their injuries, if they had any...and they did. Both were suffering from malnutrition, Luna and Celestia both had scars which could be made only by a whip...or someone with really large hands. Celestia’s left wing was broken, and both had quite a few missing feathers. “Such abuse...who could have done this to you?” I ask myself When we arrived at Minas Morgul, I brought them to my room and ordered roasted sweet corn, and medical ambrosia. I layed them down on my bed, and set their plates right in front of the bed. I sat in the shadows waiting for them to wake up, and when they did they were confused. “Tia, where are we?” Luna asked “No Idea Lulu. But whoever brought us here left food.” Celestia said “Could it be poisuned? Another punhment?” Luna asked “That could be why it’s glowing slightly…” Celestia said with a scowl That is when I spoke up, making my voice echo around the room. “That glow would be the medicinal ambrosia I applied to it. Please feel free to dig in, you are safe here.” Both looked around, spooked. Luna was bold enough to ask “Who are you, and where are we?” “One of the Nine, and you are in Minas Morgul.” I replied “...may we see you?” Celestia asked after a considerable amount of silence Now it was my turn to be silent, should I? I am not the scariest first thing they could see, but I still am plenty scary. “Please?” Luna added, and that got me. I couldn’t say no to her. “Very well, I apologize for startling you in advance.” I said, leaning forward into the light. They gasped, and stared at me with both awe and fear. “Now, please eat. I’d hate for you to die under my protection.” I said, and they obliged immediately. While they ate, a light golden aura formed around them. The scars were covered by a new coat of fur, feathers slowly grew back, and Celestia’s wing set back into place. The only thing the ambrosia could not fix was them looking starved beyond all recognition. That is what the corn was for. They devoured it in about fifteen seconds...give or take, and I couldn’t blame them. When I found out who did this to them, I would see to it they died in agony and lived their afterlife in eternal torment that even Satan would find terrifying. “What should we call you?” Luna asked “Chris, or Seven if you prefer.” I said. My childhood nickname was Seven, due to me receiving seven scars on my first day of school...I tried to climb a tree and fell, luckily some rocks broke my fall. Another idea came to mind. “Or, Moron. Any of those three.” I got them to smile a bit “Okay, Seven. Why did you help us? What is in it for you?” Celestia asked “For me? Nothing, other than a warm feeling in my soul. For you? A safe place to sleep, food, a basic education, new faces, and the option of specialized training.” I said “Speculized Traning?” Luna asked “How to fight, how to tame creatures, how to make potions, how to identify poisons based on smell and taste. Only if you want to, that is.” I said “That sounds like traning for Woalty.” Luna said “Hehehe...I suppose it does Luna, I suppose it does.” “You didn’t say why you helped us.” Celestia stated “...I’ll give you a hint. One word, starts with k and ends in ness.” I said “You expect me to believe you did it out of kindness?” “No, but that is why. Well, that and one other reason I shall not tell until you are older.” I said “Extremely older.” “How old?” “Spoilers. Now, if you aren’t exhausted...would you care to walk with me? If you are going to be living here, then you might as well know some the more notable areas of Minas Morgul. If you don’t want to stay then you are free to leave, I will pack you a weeks worth of food, water, and an escort to the edge of the Everfree Forest. If you leave, and should you chose to return...you need only enter the forest. One of the lookouts will see you, and will bring you here. So, unless you wish to leave, this is your new home.” I said I watched as they took it in. Luna seemed happy, almost joyous at living here. Celestia seemed suspicious, and yet relaxed at the same time. I spun around on one heel and opened the door, gesturing for them to follow. Luna followed me immediately, Celestia followed most likely to insure her sister would not be harmed. I couldn’t blame her, the things they must have been through would warrant some suspicion on something as good as this. Upon leaving the castle, we were approached by an olog. Both of them scampered behind me, using me as a shield. “Monster!” Luna said. “Bruz, any sign of the Wendigos?” “Yes sir, the temperature is starting to drop...and by drop I mean someone killed the heat. The shield is holding, but it is taking a bit of a beating.” “Well then, have some of the drakes prepare to light fires. Only in case of emergency. Oh, and before I forget we have some equines on the premises. Luna, Celestia, meet Bruz.” I said shifting to allow both parties to see each other. “Hi there!” Bruz said Both ponies waved a wing “It’s the scar, ‘init?” Celestia nodded “No worries, it scares Uruks as well. Now, I’ve got to see a man about some drakes.” I waited till he was gone to say this. “No, they don’t get bigger...but they do get even scarier. No need to worry, they are about as deadly as a fly to you...unless you try to kill them, or me. If any of them harass you, let me know and I will take care of it.” I said. “Now, you will live here in the castle. Choose a room and decorate it to hearts content. Over to the left, where Bruz is going, is the drake pens. If you feel like flying on the back of something, then that is where you go. The school is down the street, right around that corner...no not that one, the one on the left.” I said pointing. “You will start attending there next week. If you find yourself bored, the library is across from it. It has everything, Non-Fiction, Fiction, History, Fantasy, and a whole lot more I could list...but I won’t. I haven’t explored all of Minas Morgul, but I will tell you this. The Uruks and Ologs are always making and improving things here and there, and one day you and them will be as close as family. Now, any questions?” “Where is the chamber pot?” Luna asked “Go back into the castle, take a left, and look for the door with the purple sign on it.” I said, and both of them went rushing off ‘Well, since they won’t be the problem...who will?’ I thought to myself “Sire, the Wendigos are getting stronger.” Kruth theShadow said, making me jump “I am going to attach bells to your ears, just so I can hear you coming.” “Wouldn’t work, but the thought is appreciated.” I audibly sigh, and say “Well then, rest is out of the picture. Get the Mystics to start pouring energy into the barrier, I will gather the others.” ‘And hopefully not accidentally make the mane six not a thing...I love Applejack goddamit.’ I thought to myself, making my way to Joe’s laboratory to make an order, and planning to go to the workshop to make some things.
Interlude 1: Forging of the gear.After a quick stop at Joe’s, I left with two very special vials for one very special projects. From many, many tests Joe and I found that mixing Timberwolf resin, and Drake blood, with mostly any kind of powedered gemstone made a neat misty green compound. This compound mixed with metal in a smelt would birth a metal that could stand extreme temperatures, would not oxodize, and was extremely durable. You could slam a seventy ton bolder going Mach 8 into it and barely dent it. However, this means you would have to get it right the first time, because refitting is out of the question and melting it down would take forever. Growth enchantments could be used to keep it fitted to the users form, as long as it had some form of DNA for it to bind itself too...and wouldn’t you know it, my cloak had fur from both all over it from them hiding behind me. So, all that was left would be to make it using measurements I didn’t have. Simple fix really, make them using pony mannequins. Those were actually easier to procure that I initially thought. Ponies were really wasteful with certain things, so all I had to do was wait for one to be left out in the open. I prepared a forge, two smelters, and two beakers for their armor. Whilst making the first compound, I added Luna’s fur to it. It changed color to dark blue. The second compound, when mixed with Celestia’s fur, made a golden-ish color. ‘Why am I not surprised.’ Adding them to the smelters was a whole new level of weird. When added, the smelters started faintly glowing. I disregarded it, and waited for the metal and mixture to bind. While I waited I tried to decide what weapons to give them. “For Tia...definitely a claymore. For Luna...a scythe?” I muttered to myself “Maybe a- what the hell!?” I screamed said slightly louder than normal. The glowing on both had grown to be more like a lighthouse bulb. Knowing how giant glowing things tend to work, I teleported out of the room. *Crack-Boom* *Crack-Boom* I apparently did so just in time, as two explosions rocked the tower. I teleported back in, and saw nothing but smoke and a faint light. I punched holes in the wall made a few windows for the smoke to escape through. When I did that I saw the two smelters had indeed exploded, and in their remnants were two sets of filly sized armor….floating and glowing filly sized armor. “Well then, fuck you too logic.” I said. looking around, I saw bits of shrapnel lodged into stone walls, the wooden door, the gorram weapons, and the gorram Orc...wait. “You okay?” “Yeah boss, it only went through three arteries.” “Only three?” “....okay maybe five.” “Get to a medic...now.” “Okay boss.” Author's Note Eh...heheheh....I forgot to hit publish on this...so it’s been sitting here collecting dust.....sorry folks.
Chapter 3: Tribals....Cas and I were sitting on a rather comfortable sofa beside the two sisters beds. Luna and Tia had a nightmare, and came to our room. Yeah, all nine of us have a room...since we don’t really need sleep, all we do is ~~play D&D~~ make important decisions which could affect us for ages to come. Anyways, they came in because they had a nightmare. I read them several urukified versions of mother goose stories. Cas had fallen asleep as well, bored to death I guess. I just sat there, thinking...and one thought kept popping into my mind. ‘Minas Morgul, we need to rename it....seriously, if we are hoping to come off as peaceful to the other races then we need another name for it. We could call it Minas Ithil again, but that would be way to easy. Think Jason, think.’ “Boss, I come bearing news.” An Uruk with a cloak said “Ah, Azril...is it good or bad?” I ask “Unfortunately it’s both sir, The Wendigo seem to have been driven off by a powerful surge of magic, however the three tribes seem to of taken notice of our existence. As we speak they have what seems to be emissaries heading through the forest to us.” “Damn...I was hoping to have more time. Open the gates to them when they arrive, and make sure they are well accommodated...oh, and bring me a Tsuchigumo.” I said “...are you sure you want one of them boss?” He asked, slightly worried “We may need to prove a point on how dangerous the Everfree is to keep them out, so yes.” I replied, playing with a dagger absentmindedly. “Alrighty boss, should I prepare the usual containment team?” “Heavy Riot gear this time, we’ll prove a point faster that way.” “It shall be done.” Azril said before fading into the shadows, leaving me with only the light snoring of Cas “Cas, wake up. We have guests coming.” “....five more minutes....” “Okay then, I’ll terrorize the pony diplomats without you.” “I’m up.” ~Approximately two hours later~ Me and Cas were sitting side by side at a round table, waiting in the diplomats to be escorted to our makeshift meeting area...once they were there, and throughly peeved at us being late, we would teleport into the room. The creature I had requested was delivered to the room about 15 minutes after our guests had arrived, as was the Squad. The squad consisted of six Orcs, all adorned full plate metal. Four of them armed with shields and spears, two armed with crossbows, and all of their attention would be focused on a draped cage. The creature in the cage, smart as she stated she was, had been caught stealing from one of our armories. I had offered her freedom if she participated in a little demonstration, and she agreed. This demonstration, it was going to be fun... Author's Note Yes, it’s a cliffhanger...no, it wasn’t worth the wait...and yes, I know I suck at this. I will do my best to insure the betterment of my next chapter, until then here’s this. Writers block sucks sometimes.
...Terror...After about an hour of waiting, the diplomats had finally arrived. Nine in total...three Pegasi, three Earth Ponies, and three Unicorns. The Pegasi were in metal plate armor, the Unicorns were in regal dress...mostly....and the Earth Ponies looked like farmers. Once seated, the Uruk escorting them left the room...leaving only the containment team and the cage. We stepped into the shadows of our room, and out of the shadows of the meeting area. “Good evening, mares and stallions...welcome to our humble capital. Do not bother trying to introduce yourselves, I have little time as it is. May I ask why it is you have decided to visit?” I ask, making my voice echo around the room After the intial shock of my disrespect wore off, a Pegasus, Commander Hurricane, was the first to respond “We noticed odd creatures with weapons roaming around the forests, and making fortifications. We were worried that you may be plotting something.” “Oh...and what might that be?” Cas asked “The Pegasi are worried you may be plotting some form of invasion, that you may be allies of those abominations we pushed out of the valley.” A Unicorn, I think Princess Platinum, replied ‘Oh....oh okay...’ “What abominations would those be? The Draconaquui?” I ask “Because they fled to us, and because of your blind xenophobia and absolute hypocrisy the adults among them are dying. The children are more then likely have magic powers they can’t control, and where will their parents be? Oh that’s right...dead. The only reason we have not attacked you, is because it would effect something far greater than all us.” “Oh...and what’s to stop you from attacking us anyway?” The same Unicorn asked...definitely Platinum. “I am amazed that you managed to drive off the Wendigos...you are walking generators of prejudice. What stops us is the forest itself.” I reply “....how can a forest stop you?” One of the Earth Ponies, Chancellor Puddinghead, finally asked “It is less the forest, and more it’s inhabitants. Guards, if you would please bring the creature forward.” Whilst they were wheeling it over, I added “Do not trust your eyes, this creature is a master at deception.” It was placed in the middle of the table, where I threw the cloth off of it...revealing a bloodied, terrified Pegasus mare marred by scars and missing patches of fur. “Please, help me! These monsters are going to kill me!” She begged, tears streaming down her face. Each equine attempted to move, only to find themselves rendered immobile. Runes in the backs of the chairs were glowing. “Release her, you fiend!” “Oh I will, I promised I would after this demonstration after all.” I said, drawing my sword, and stepping onto the table. As I sauntered over to the cage, the guards got ready to rush to my aid. I gestured for them to stand down. It was at that point the Tsuchigomo kicked the panic into overdrive, probably thinking I meant a different kind of release. “Please, he’s going to kill me! Get me out of this cage!” When I reached the cage, I raised my blade. “I thank you for the demonstration...now, to keep my end of the bargain.” And with that I brought my blade down...shattering the lock on the cage. “Now if you would, please drop the disguise.” It took her a moment, but she did drop it...revealing a spider like creature that was barely contained by the confines of the cage. It had the legs and body of a spider...however it had the head of a dragon, three equine-like eyes, and a maw of razor sharp teeth. “This,” I started, turning to the now frozen ponies “is what we call a Tsuchigumo. They are an intelligent shapeshifting predator race. They can disguise as anyone, anything, and they are one of only two races you can bargain for your life with. Everything else will kill and eat you without a second thought. They are one of the many threats we worry about in the Everfree Forest. Any questions?” Author's Note The Picture here was not made by me...I have no idea who it was made by, however I am fairly certain I couldn’t pronounce it even if I found it. I based the Tsuchigumo’s appearnce around this form, as I find it the most terrifying. Just wanted y’all to know...see you in the comments/next chapter.
...an unforeseen occurrence...I waited, by Gaia I waited for a long time for one of them to answer. Hopping off of the table, I began walking back to my seat. That’s when Princess Platinum snapped out of her stupor. “I have one question...what are you intentions?” Princess Platinum asked. That made me pause, and turn...even without a face you could tell I was expressing disbelief. “I thought I made myself abundantly clear, I want no equines wandering in the territory we own setting up towns. I do not want to fight a genocide, but I will happily do so.” I stated Then one of the Pegasi piped up “You meant a war...right?” “No, I mean genocide. Sure, you equines may have unity, but that’s all. We have magic users to counter your Unicorns, drakes to burn your Pegasi’s feathered wings, and swarms of Uruks and Ologs to put your Earth Ponies six feet under." I stated mater-of-factly "So I will give you this one and only warning. Should you, at any point in time, think that taking our land is a good idea...then I will personally lead the army that kills you all. Do we have an understanding?" I ask "You seem cold to us...other than the Draconiquuai, what did we do to offend you?" One of the Pegasi asked "Yeah, I'm keen to know why you're so aggressive as well. It ain't like you." Cas said, her voice laced with concern "Earlier this morning, I flew over your three encampments to assess what threat you could potentially pose...however I was distracted by a sight so heinous I am afraid I cannot see your kinds in a positive light." I said They all paused. "Might I ask what that sight was?" Princess Platinum asked. "Two Pegasi fillies, extremely malnourished, and scarred beyond belief. It looked like they had been tortured. I have since taken them in under my protection, and here they will remain until they decide otherwise." I said. There was outrage strewn across the faces of all in attendance, with the exception of Commander Hurricane, and Princess Platinum. They bore looks of worry. "Were their wings broken?" Hurricane asked "Yes, one of them had their left wing broken. You know who did this, don't you?" I ask "Yes, and she has since been executed for her crimes." Princess Platinum said "Well then, a small amount of justice is served...may I be so bold to ask of you a favor, princess?" I ask "Only if it is a means for peace between us and the other two tribes." She declared "I find your terms to be satisfactory. I may send a pair of magic users your way for...specialized training. I will give them a name to utter, it will be your way of knowing they were sent by me. Does this sound reasonable?" I ask "Why yes, yes it does. Give me the name." "Ains Ooal Gown." I said "Very well...I shall remember it. Now, is there anything else you two would like to say to our hosts?" The Princess asked the other two tribe leaders "My scouts noticed a chunk of really fertile farmland within the forest, may we transport a bit of the soil back to our farmlands?" Puddinghead asked "That depends...Cas, get a map." "You mean-"*Snap*"-this map?" She asked, waving the thing infront of my 'face' I shook my head, took the map, and opened it up. "Point to the location." I said The Chancellor pointed to a section of land that held great significance to the continuation of the timeline, the area in which the Tree of Harmony resides. "I will have the Uruks in the area harvest enough soil to fill a cropland." I said "We could gather it ourselv-" "No, you cannot. It is Basilisk territory, your scouts are lucky to be alive." I lied "...Very well, you know where our temporary housing is, have them deliver it there." Puddinghead said I waited yet again for another question, and after about two minutes of nothing, I declared the meeting adjourned. As they left the room, I was thinking about what to do next...until I felt a rune on my wrist activate. A 'sight' rune, one I put near the Tree of Harmony. It detected a young...well, something. Whatever it was had tapped into the source of the tree's power...which could mean two things. Option A) Discord had been made manifest, or Option B) one of the two sisters had managed to leave without a single sentry seeing her, navigated the nearly maze-like forest, and finally find the tree without being attacked by any of the local wildlife or local plantlife, I was betting on option b. Meanwhile with Joe Pov: Joe Location: Joe's Laboratory "The runes are holding, magic matrices are stable...I think we did it master!" Gruk said "It would seem that way...only one way to find out. Automaton, activate." I said to the mass of glowing metal, receiving the reply of fuck all. To prevent a potentially damaging explosion, I cut the flow of magic flowing into the would-be automaton. "Blast...I was sure we had it that time!" Gruk said, shaking her head in disappointment "I agree with her, this was the thirty-third attempt to create an automaton using only magical means." Danny said "Wat an atomton?" A familiar small, blue Pegasus asked "Artificial life." I replied "Wat aretifical?" Luna asked "Hmmm...something made by another thing, I guess." I said "out of non-organic materials." "Yu know big wurds." Luna stated "Yup, that's Joe for you. Either he explains it using all the fifteen syllable words in the dictionary, or he doesn't explain it at all." Danny said, laughing. Luna joined him in his buoyant laughter, and it echoed through my lab. "Hehehe...yup." I said, giggling a bit. However, my laughter was short-lived as two runes lit up on my wrist. One was a magical influx warning spell, and the other was a magic monitoring rune. My eyes darted around the room looking for the source...they eventually landed on little Luna. She had wisps of magic flowing all around her, and she was beginning to float. "Wat is going on?" She asked "Why am I flying without flappin my wings?" My mind was scrambling to find a reason, when it hit me, she was ascending...this meant she would temporarily be a flashbang. "Everyone, avert your gazes and cover your ears! We have a magic flash incoming!" I yelled to the others in the lab before taking my own advice. PHOOOM I was expecting a wave of nearly pure harmonic energy to wash over me. PHOOM ...what I wasn't expecting was wave of pure chaotic energy to follow it... "AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!" ...Nor was I expecting insane laughter. Author's Note Managed to extend this chapter, and I gave it a somewhat better cut off point...I know, I'm kind of rushing the plot a bit, but there's not much I can do with pre-chaos Equestria. So, anyways, I hope you enjoyed this chapter and I will look forward to making more. See y'all in the next chapter!
Chapter 1: The start of SomethingI awoke with a start, my 'eyes' seeing nothing but blurry shapes. "Joe? Sarah? Ken? Cas? Anybody?" I called out "Well look who woke up...welcome back to the land of the living, kinda." Cas said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Give the blur a few moments to clear, and let me be the first to welcome you to Equestria!" "...Equestria?" I ask hesitently "Yep" Sarah says, startling me a bit "Joe." "Yup." "Year?" "2000 years before harmony, 1000 before Chaos. We kinda rule this area." I heard Joe say "Which Nazgul are we?" "The Shadow of War versions I believe." Danny said Upon hearing that, my vision returns to me. "Yeah...the originals didn't have these in the movies." I say, gesturing to the metal masks/face-plate things on my eight friends. Looking at them I can tell Cas and Sarah did not lose their more feminine forms, and looked like the two sister Nazguls from the Galadreil DLC. Joe and Fred had Greatswords, Felix had a Hammer, Cas and Sarah had those Chain Scythe things, I had a Longsword, Sam had a Bow, Danny had a Spear, and Greg had a quarterstaff. "Final question...where are we?" "Minas Morgul." Greg said "Really? You serious?" Cas asked "I decided to screw waiting and took a peek. We are in Minas Morgul, no Orcs or Gondorians. It's just...empty." He said, Shuddering. "We could recreate orcs, use them as citizens" Joe said, noticing everyone staring at him he added "They weren't bad to begin with, Sauron just twisted them into what they were." "Even if we wanted to, how would we do it? We don't exactly have a Biolab to preform this shite." I said "Simple. We combine our Magic into one beam, think about what we want it to form, and presto...at least thats how it should work in theory" Joe said "Unless you want to maintain the City?" "What theory ?" "We displaced each other, which means if we say we can do it...we can do it. I think...that's the gist of what I got from reading the book." We all looked around at each other in disbelief...I think...hard to tell with the masks. However I know that most of us were still willing to put in the extra mile...that was until Joe added "Giant spiders and insects may be a thing during this time." "One Orcish Adam and Eve coming up." Cas said, getting up almost immediately "Yeah I'm with her on this...I would rather not be giant maggot food." Greg said "...Agreed." Sarah said "While I like Spiders and the Like, I think I shall change my vote to pro-orc." "Yeah, fuck spiders." Danny said. 500 years later "Sir, an Olog by the name of Ar-Janek is here to see you." an Uruk said "Well send him in, if he's here then something is amiss." "Right away boss." He says, opening the door to show an Olog with what looked like a metal beard. "Ar-Janek, It is good to see you friend. How goes your settlement?" I ask "Pretty good if I do say so myself, we could use more of a guard force though. The Manticores are getting a bit ballsy." He replied "I'll send Danny with some Ologs immediately, do you need anything else old friend?" I ask "Nah boss, I have everything else handled." He said with a grin "Well then, good day." I said, returning to my work. "JASON, WE NEED YOU IN THE MAIN HALL NOW!" I heard Joe yell Snap I teleport, seeing the other eight I ask "What is it...what happend?" "Draconaquuai, a ton of them, are heading this way. Guards from the outlying settlements say they look injured." Danny said "Well then...Joe, get the healers. Sarah and Cas, get some Food, Water, whatever we can spare. Danny, Greg, and Fred, you need to make sure whatever attacked them isn't following. If it is, push them back or relive them of their lives. Felix, Sam, you're with me...we need to keep the streets clear." I said "Now go, we have a species to save."
