Once You Reach Rock Bottomby PhantomVortexChaptersA Hero's JourneyWhat Doesn't Kill YouThe Hero In All Of UsA Hero's JourneyThe night sky covered the sea like a delicate Veil of twinkles. Hoofprints marked the moist sediment like a trail of past doings. He stood gazing at the horizon, observing how the moon imprinted itself onto the water. "A villain, nothing more than a villain is what they see. A villain is all they believe I'll ever be." mutters Synapse under his breath. The changeling stood wearing a dark coat that was visible even in the dark of the night. "I can't believe it's over. My mission is finally at rest. Yet, I find myself lost in thought. Who am I? How did I get here and where will I go?" Synapse pondered to himself. Gentle hoofs dug through the sand as Synapse became slowly aware of another presence. "Hey, are you feeling better?" Asked a small colt with a gentle voice. "Yeah, I'm just trying to figure things out." Synapse responded. "Oh, you haven't yet accepted your fate as the villain of the story?" The colt remarked. ..... 'Silence' ..... "Why are you here Allacard? Do you not have anywhere else important to be?" questioned Synapse. "I have an eternity to get whatever I need to done. ..Besides, I enjoy your company. You are the embodiment of a screw up, you know." responded Allacard. "At least you're blunt for a blood sucker. ...how do you deal with it? " comments Synapse. "I beg your pardon?" exclaimed Allacard as his pointed ears peaked from his tricorne hat. The colt was a bat-pony with a navy blue coat and a curly long mane. The colt looked straight at the changeling with mocking ember eyes. "How do you deal with knowing that no matter how much good you accomplish, you will always be characterized as a villain for the more impactful demeanors?" Synapse questions. "I simply don't care" Allacard states with an opulent smile. ..... 'Silence' ..... "Were it so easy" Synapse remarks. The two figures remained in focus as the moon rose from where the horizon ended. "All of equestria treats me as rubbish. I feel forsaken, you know. A villain is meant to remain as an obstacle for a protagonist... for the progress of a hero." Synapse explains. "Well, that's a funny way of putting it. You make the hero seem like the relevant part of the story, but the truth is that a villain defines the story's outcome." Allacard preaches. "Why is that?" Synapse questions. "Because without a a villain, a hero can not exist." Allacard explains. "That doesn't change the fact that a villain's fate is that of an obstacle." Synapse comments. "Aye, but nobody is truly ever stuck as one or the other, everybody is a villain in some pony's story. Use yourself as that example." Allacard mocks. "Allacard, you are beginning to pester me." Synapse remarks. "Don't take it the wrong way, l simply believe that the idea of a villain is saturated by social bias. The simple depiction that a hero is 'Good' blinds the interpreters into believing that a villain is always at 'Bad'. This nation has been subliminally depicting mules and zebras as terrible lesser beings for countless generations. The same goes for my kind. Unfortunately some ponies believe every last word that is fed to them because of the fear of unfamiliarity and unpredictability." Allacard rants. "What's your point blood sucker?" Synapse questions. "Well, Ponies fear what they can't predict. That is why they search for a prediction done for them. Clouding their own judgement with unknown stereotypes. And if that pony is insecure enough, they will always go with what they are told is 'Better' for them. I for one believe that life is to be experienced and discovered for one's self. A single moment does not define the rest of time. Maturity and growth always cause a pony to change. Nothing is set in stone, and every pony make mistakes. The happiest ponies are the once that stick with it and they work with it to surpass any mistakes. Although, there are always ponies that rather search for another answer and a temporary feel of gratification. Until they realize that they had the same exact thing, if not better, on the other side." Allacard continues to rant as the moonlight amplifies the luminosity of his eyes. Synapse turns to the colt with piercing curiosity. "The point being that you're already a hero. You just focussed so much on being a supporting character for the Equestrian B.O.A. that you forgot about your own story and ended up becoming an obstacle." Allacard explains. Synapse turns to observe the moonlit calm water over the horizon. "You let your self-value be crushed, and now you're a villain like me. Except 'pitiful." explains Allacard "What should I do?" asks Synapse. "That's up to you to decide. You just have to flesh your story out by being your true self. I hope you remember the hero you once were. It's no fun not having an arch rival anymore. And you make a pathetic villain." answers Allacard. The two figures continued to observe the moonlit calm of the sea. As the moon rose even hire, a soft "Thank you" peeped from Synapse. Ironically, a hero's closest bond is always with their villain. On that night, a new friendship was formed and an old rivalry re-Kindled. * * * The Next Day * * * Synapse awoke with a pain in his back. Sleeping on sand is never as comfortable as it may seem. The changeling lifted his withering chitin and shook the sand off. "When did I fall asleep?" Synapse asks himself. He begins trotting towards civilization as he sees mare laying on the beach. The mare is shivering and appears dazed. Synapse decides to approach her. "Hey, are you okay?" the changeling asks. As Synapse scans the mare for any injuries, he comes across what seems to be a bug bite on the mare's neck. "Buck, Allacard this was your doing." comments Synapse as he strategizes what to do with the sickly mare. The words of the mocking colt ring in his ears, "I hope you remember..." as Synapse begins to lift the mare on his back. "I guess this is happening." Synapse mentions to himself as he gallops to the nearest infirmary. The once nihilistic changeling has now taken a step back towards nobility. What was once a purger of life and values, was now defending a life, which in turn gave him values. Painful groans suddenly break free from the dazed mare on the changeling's back. "Hold on, we are almost there!" Synapse ensures as he gallops past the dock and onto the boardwalk while zigzagging through crowds of ponies. The infirmary rapidly grew in size as the changeling galloped past all obstacles. *Groans* "Just a bit further!" Synapse exclaims as he bursts through the doors of the infirmary. What Doesn't Kill YouThe doors burst wide open as the galloping changeling rushed towards the front counter. Patients and staff alike stare at the unreformed changeling. It had been an entire seasonal cycle since the reform had happened. For the citizens of Baltimare, unreformed changelings had become a myth. "Mam, I found this mare laying about the beach. She appears to be in a state of chronic anaemia. She must see a doctor at once!" Exclaimed Synapse as he approached the counter. The desk attendant then hit the com and requested "I need any available staff ready at the front desk. We have another case of emergency in relation to anemia." Synapse stared at the unconscious mare's pale apple green mane as it covered his shoulder. "It appears Alacard helped himself to a feeding frenzy, ...or perhaps it's more of the vast spread chaos that amuses him. " Synapse thought to himself. The nurse's hoof glided away from the intercom. "Thank you for helping a mare in need. She will be attended shortly sir...?". "Synapse, you may call me Synapse." Synapse responded. "Synapse? That's an interesting name. It's the same name given to the link between two neurones. A meeting of identities sharing a concord. It's kinda romantic. In a sense, Synapse can be interpreted as harmony." Explained the nurse with a bashful smile. "Um.. Thank you." Synapse responded awkwardly. The changeling had noticed her soft flirtatious stare but wasn't sure how to interpret her interaction. All of the other ponies around them had been whispering to one another while staring at the unreformed changeling. "Oh, but where are my manners. My name is Gentle Heart." Mentions the pale aquamarine mare. As she rubs the back of her white-gold maned head nervously. The mare began calming down after receiving a smile from Synapse. As the two shared gentle looks at one another, the door to the emergency hallway burst open. Multiple nurses galloped out and lifted the mare off Synapse's back and onto a stretcher. Out of the four medics scrambling to get the mare into an emergency room, a stallion wearing a lab coat approached Synapse. "The patient appears to be in a state of shock, but her stern expression indicates that the anemia isn't a threat to her life since she appears to have enough fight left in her. Did you by any chance see what may have caused this?" The doctor questioned. "I'm sorry, but i found her like this on the beach. I don't know what may have been the cause." Synapse responds. "Well, thank you for bringing her and helping a pony in need. You are welcome to stay if you wish to observe her progress." The doctor mentions with a tired and cold smile. "I, uh, I have some matters to attend to. I appreciate the offer but I will deny it. It puts me at ease to know that she'll be alright. Thank you." Synapse answers with a slightly shamed expression. "Very well, but may I at least have your name? I believe the patient deserves to know the name of her hero." Persuades the doctor. "My name is Synapse." The changeling responds with a bashful look. "It's a pleasure to meet you Synapse, I'm doctor Lister. I'm the head of this beach side facility. ...Now, I must get back to attending my patients." The doctor concludes with a weary smile as he trots over to the moving stretcher. The medics soon disappear into the emergency room allowing Gentle Heart to continue her conversation with Synapse. "May I ask, what brings you to Baltimare? It's unusual to encounter a changeling." Questions the bashful mare. "I'm... I seek knowledge. " Response the changeling. "Oh, so you are here as a tourist? Well, Baltimare isn't a great place for sight-seeing, but I hope you enjoy your stay." nurse gentle heart explains as she gives a gentle confused look. "...I'm not here to sight-see. At the risk of sounding stale, I hope to find myself wherever I may find him." Mentions Synapse with a slight concerned expression. "Oh! I apologize for touching the subject. I understand that it must be difficult for a traditional changeling to find acceptance in Equestria. ...There's no reason to be concerned around me Synapse. I'm not a part of what the world is about. ...I've actually never met a changeling. I feel honored to have met you the way you are." Responds nurse gentle heart as her concentrated glance begins wandering about. "If you don't mind me asking, what do you mean by what the world is about?" Questions Synapse while tilting his head slightly to the right. "It's just about the end of my night shift. How about I treat you to some delicious apple pie. It's imported directly from pony ville." Mentions Gentle Heart as she begins to organize her station while another nurse patiently waits behind her to take her place. As the two ponies walk out of the infirmary and onto the beach's board walk, Synapse attempts to continue the conversation. "So... What did you mean by 'what the world's about'?" Questions Synapse while trotting alongside Gentle Heart. "Here's a riddle, what breaks a family, puts people on the streets, and causes the insane to break into laughter? ....As a matter of fact, it causes all of us to break in some way." Riddles Gentle Heart. "Life, society, abuse, hatred, hurt, division, tainted Love, hurt trust?" Questions Synapse sequentiality. "Good answers but what do they all have in common?" Mocks Gentle Heart. "A governing force of some kind?" Responds Synapse. "Do you give up? Well, the answer is pressure." Comments Gentle Heart. "Pressure?" Questions Synapse with peaking curiosity. "Yes pressure. It's the force that gives us terror of what is hidden. It's what breaks the strongest of love into hatred and disgust. It's what corrupts the most noble of knights. It's a laughing joke on all of our attempts towards abstinence from life's perversions. It's what causes us to deny the ones we love the most a second chances. It's what creates fear, self-doubt, and insecurity. Yes, pressure. I as a nurse know the feeling all too well. But, as a nurse, I never let it control me. ...That said, we all make mistakes while pressured." Rants Gentle Heart as she turns to face the sky for a moment while trotting. "Did you notice how cold of a pony Dr. Lister is? ...Pressure has caused the good Dr. to break emotionally. He was once the top doctor in Baltimare, but with great status comes great responsibility along with great pressure. One day, he cut into a patient's lung while he nervously spasmed for the first time during an operation. The poor stallion lost everything." Continues Gentle Heart. While switching her view towards Synapse then the slightly towards the ground. "That's awful..." Responds Synapse with a concerned expression. "Yes, pressure is the governing force that creates all misfortunes. Accidents such as muscle spasms can't be avoided, but choices/decisions can. Sometimes pressure can be a good thing. Like when an eagle throws its young off a nest. ...Unfortunately, pressure also has its downsides. When the changeling reform took place, Canterlot declared that any unreformed changelings where to be rounded up and deported back to the badlands." Mentions Gentle Heart. "Yes, I heard of the events, but i never expected for the Princes herself to declare such a decree." Exclaims Synapse. "The Princes is a bit of an imperialistic hag, or at least she was during the time of my grandmother. The decree was actually issued by the council with the excuse that changelings couldn't be trusted." Explains Gentle Heart. "I've noticed the expressions that ponies have been giving me as we walk by. ...They all seem paranoid." Mentions Synapse. The nurse takes a moment to gaze around at the flocks of ponies staring at them as they walk by. "...Racism are old ideas pressured into the youth of a population by the propaganda of old war times and of imperialistic expansion that manipulated false-hatred and stereotypes into the minds of our grand parents." Remarks Gentle Heart. As the two ponies trot alongside one another. Wide gaps of boardwalk form around them. "That's where the choices come into play. Most ponies choose to fit in and follow the popular belief being preached at them by a persuading force. Like when a classmate offers you a drug or when you are pressured by 'ideal' sexuality propaganda. Individuals, families/friends, and governments all use pressure to submit ponies into avoidable undoable acts. Like in the case of drugs or the abuse of free-love, sometimes addictions or shame forever cage a pony into a life of perversions and self destruction that will also harm those around them. As depicted in the lyrics for Hotel Canterlot. If you've ever heard that song." References Gentle Heart. The two pass by a news paper stand while trotting. The article on the front page depicts a zebra being arrested. The title read, "Zebra activists detained after assaulting peaceful pony supremacist rally!" The mare and the changeling observe the stand but continue trotting down the boardwalk. "Ideas are recycled in our society under pressure. The Old follow their trusted old-ways at their convenience, the Adults follow the media/popular beliefs, and the young learn from their elders. All pressured by the fear of "not doing what is 'ideally' necessary". While In reality, it's the fear of not fitting In. ...But ponies like me follow our hearts while using our wits. *Giggles* I choose not to gain from the world while leaving it colder, or would it be warmer? *Giggles* ...I choose to give. And not in the common materialistic manner that ponies use to give themselves a false sense of nobility." Mentions Gentle Heart while shifting from a grim look to a warm smile. The nurse turns to Synapse while smiling. "Responsibility, love, and making noble choices are all parts of being a good nurse!" Exclaims nurse Gentle Heart with an exuberant attitude. "I must say. I have never met a pony such as yourself. You...I think you're the very definition of a true hero. My admirations to you nurse Gentle Heart." Mentions Synapse with a warm smile. The nurse blushes and turns to face forward with bashful gestures. "Hey look! The pie shop is right up ahead! Hahaha..." Gentle Heart exclaims nervously. The mare catches her emotions and turns to observe the changeling that now appears to be taller and broader in appearance. She begins to feel a sense of soothing comfort around him. "Synapse, I believe there's a hero in all of us. It keeps us honest, it gives us strength, and makes us noble. ...Thank you very much for the compliment. It means a lot. Uuuh! I only wish other ponies would be so courageous as to be steady and show humility along with compassion to others!" Gentle Heart expresses with exaggerated gestures while maintaining a bitter-sweet expression. 'Humility and compassion? Was that what I lost? In turn, did I loose my nobility? It appears that what I lost may have been respect for my self and for those around me. ...This mare, I owe her my gratitude. Although, Is it blind respect for her status and actions? Like the respect I had for my commanding officers in the spec-ops unit, or is it that I respect her for who she is? Is this the lost respect? The respect for an individual's reality. Not judging it and not interfering in it like a lover that wrecks a home? Can ponies share this type of respect to one another someday? Perhaps such mutual respect is the answer. Perhaps respect and compassion end the perversions set be pressure. She makes me...feel... harmonious...' ponders Synapse to himself. "Stories of heroes are rare in our age. The elements of harmony shouldn't be the only participants of the practice towards harmony." Mentions Gentle Heart. Interrupting Synapse's thoughts. "I...agree..." Agrees Synapse while flashing a warm smile. "I thought I was the only mare in this city courageous enough to care for the sake of compassion to others. ...Until I met you." States Gentle Heart as she turns towards Synapse with an infatuated smile. The mare and changeling finally reached the pie shop while gazing upon one another. As they peaked through the front entry, a soothing sent of cinnamon apple pies surfed through their nostrils. Synapse and Gentle Heart parted their vision from one another only to find the shop workers closing. "What? What's going on? Did you sell all of the pies already?" Questions Gentle Heart with a disappointed tone. "We're sorry mam, but we received word that Big MacIntosh won't be delivering today. They found him collapsed outside of the city. He appears to have come up with a case of anemia. Whatever that is." Explains the shop keeper while rubbing his head. "Oh fui, I guess I'll have to treat you some other time Synapse." Mentions Gentle Heart as she turns towards Synapse and then back to the shop keeper. "Come back tomorrow! I'm sure we'll have thing sorted out by then. Thank you for your visit!" Mentions the shopkeeper as Synapse and Gentle Heart turn away and begin walking out. "Well, that was disappointing." States Gentle Heart as they walk onto the boardwalk. "I really appreciate the time we spent Gentle Heart. Thank you." Mentions Synapse with a peaceful warm smile. As they gaze at each other. With an infatuated intention, the background becomes illuminated with a white-gold light that flickers for a second before being followed by a loud disturbance. An explosion followed by dozens more began to engulf the beach! Crowds of ponies begin fleeing the area as screams become silent from all directions before the screeching of the mortars once again compliment the agonized ponies. The nurse and the changeling separate while turning their gaze towards multiple directions. In the distance, a dark zeppelin peaks from over the horizon. Synapse notices a dark cloud forming around the aircraft as a new barrage of projectile leave the haul of the vessel. More explosions engulf the beach as Synapse turns to Gentle Heart. "We've got to get out of here!" Shouts Synapse at the mare. "We can't, there are injured ponies on the beach!" Exclaims Nurse Gentle Heart as she rushes towards the crowd's opposite direction. 'Dammit, the area must be a capture point of some sort. Remaining on the beach is a Terrible idea!' Thinks Synapse to himself. "Right behind you!" Mentions Synapse as they gallop towards the fallen and dismembered ponies. Synapse notices that the beach has been tinted red and black with the charcoaled remains of the unfortunate. Explosions remain at a constant around them. The Apple shop they had ran out off had been hit and only splinters remained. While in the distance, more Zeppelins peaked over the dark cloud. 'A damn invasion force? Who's invading? Better question, why am I running towards the mortars? ...is it worth saving those that have been forsaken by fate? Is a pony's life worth my own? ...Is a hero a simple idea of honor and glory, or is it much more?' ponders Synapse while avoiding incoming projectiles. While maneuvering around the beach Synapse fails to notice the unstable magical residue on the sand. "Crap!" Shouts Synapse. *Boom!* The nurse halts and turns back to see Synapse engulfed by the blast. "Synapse!" Exclaims the mare with an agonized shock. As the smoke clears off from the darkened sand, a dark beast leaps out of the cloud of glass and cinder. Gliding over Gentle Heart and breathing green flames that burn the magical mortars out of existence. "..Synapse?" Questions the mare shocked and confused. As the mare gazes upon the giant pitch black dragon with a crown of thorns and glowing white eyes. Gentle Heart becomes entranced into a state of thought. 'That's rite! Changelings have the ability to shipshape. Although, most transmissions have been recorded to be only illusions. ...Could this be an actual transformation? ...So, this is the power of a...changeling. ...How in Faust's name did Canterlot survive an invasion from such powerful creatures?' A deep rawr echoes out of the transformed changeling as he shields Gentle Heart from the barrage of mortars. "Go! Use your magic and help the wounded. I'll cover you by clearing the area from any incoming projectiles." Mentions Synapse in a deep draconic voice. The dragon lifts itself off the ground and takes to the sky in the direction of the zeppelins. As Synapse continues to catch the magical blasts on his scales, thoughts emerge from the changeling. 'Pressure can sometimes be a good thing... Like when an eagle throws its young off a nest... Am I pressured to save to risk myself for the sake of the ponies under siege? ...No, good pressure is not pressure at all. No pony wants me to save them. No pony expects me to save them. Compassion is what I feel. Compassion is what an eagle allows their young as a parent by pushing them off a nest. Compassion is not pity, it is sympathy, respect, and love for another. This damn nation, no, this damn world has tainted the meaning of the word to a generic Hoofle definition. Everything runs on the idea of giving and receiving to the point where compassion isn't seen as a selfless act of valor anymore. Gentle Heart is right, there aren't enough stories of real heroes in our modern era. ...BUT THAT CAN CHANGE. I CAN CHANGE! The dragon speeds up while catching the mortars on his wings. If a mortar where to pass his wings, he'd make sure to whip them out of existence with his powerful tail. On the ground, crowds of ponies stop fleeing in astonishment at the sight a dragon helping them. "Has the infirmary been completely evacuated?" Questions Dr. Lister as a nurse approaches him. "Yes, the patients are being transported directly to Baltimare General" Answers the pale yellow nurse with dark blue eyes and a white mane. Dr. Lister switches his gaze from the distant nurse Gentle Heart to nurse Apricot. Another couple dozen staff members approach behind her. "Good work but our duty as medics is to help save as many lives as we can. Given the circumstances, I understand if not all of you share the point of view. Although, I for one believe that my duty is out there on the battlefield. Our patients are in good hands now, so for any pony that wants to aid Nurse Gentle Heart along side me, that would be most appreciated." Preaches Dr. Lister as he begins to gallop over towards the battlefield. Meanwhile as the enemy becomes increasingly close to landing on the beach. "Commander, a dragon has appeared out of nowhere and is flying in our direction!" Informs a storm unit while looking through a black and teal telescope. "A dragon aiding the ponies of Baltimare...? Remarks commander Storm as he snags the telescope. "Well, would you look at that! A dragon is aiding the ponies of equestria. Very well! ...Seize the magic mortars! Arm the cannons! Magic can't penetrate a dragon's scales, but spiked cannon balls can! Ha!" Commands Storm in a mocking manner. As he steps forward to lean on the deck's railing. "Now, why are they sending a single dragon against a fleet?." Whispers Commander storm to himself. While invoking a concentrated grin on his face. A few miles away on the tallest point of Baltimare, Allacard sits with a large black umbrella hat while sipping a glass of blood. The colt observes the warzone while resting near the edge of the building. "It appears that Synapse is still a formidable opponent. Although, that dragon form must be exhausting. I wonder how much longer he can keep it up. *Sip* ...I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Hehe" mocks Allacard as he ends with a bright smile. The Hero In All Of UsAuthor's Note Okay! This chapter becomes dark and frankly a tad profane. If you are not used to profanity and nihilistic speeches. This is not for you! Do not get offended by my use of words. Just because i use SIN does not mean that i'm religious. If you are religious, please do not rant about the word of god or my inclusion of demonic figures. Enjoy the reading and perhaps learn a bit from it. Moral of the story- Shit happens! But we are all individually responsible for our own problems. A healthy pony keeps proper boundaries and learns to respect those of others. The Hero In All Of Us Midday approached as a barrage of Cannon balls disrupted the tranquility of the still blue sky. Nurse Gentle Heart exhaustedly casted a healing spell on a fallen Pegasus. "There, I've stopped the bleeding. Unfortunately, I can't do anything about the tendons. At least not here without the right tools." Explains Gentle Heart as she flashes a weary smile. "Thank you" Expresses a weakened Pegasus as he is lifted to be carried away by two unicorns casting a levitation spell. "Your efforts have inspired others to lend a hand Nurse Gentle Heart. If I had known you where this committed. I would've had you doing more than simple desk duty over at the clinic. ...While everypony fled, you continued your duty." Mentions Dr. Lister as he trots towards Gentle Heart. The Stallion was an earth pony with a five o'clock shadow and a short walnut spiked mane. His beige coat peaked from the orifices of his long pure-white lab coat. "Always glad to lend a hand sir!" Exclaims the nurse while panting from exhaustion. Black body bags piled-up in the scenery as civilians contributed by either tending to the wounded or clean-up duty. "Call me Lister, there is no need for addressing me as your superior. Frankly i should be the one addressing you with utmost respect, given the circumstances." The doctor complimented as the mare collapsed on her belly. "Take a break Gentle Heart, you've done more than your fair-share. I'll take charge from here." noted the concerned doctor as he observes the exhausted mare with a polite expression. "Thank you *pant* sir, *pant* i'm just going to collapse hear *pant* for a second" pants Gentle Heart as she attempted to catch her breath while laying on the warm sand. ************************************************************* "Mummy!... mummy!...Where are you, mummy!" A frail weeping foal cried out as bomb sirens deafen the atmosphere. "Mu.. mu..mmyyy!" Continues the foal as the screeching of magical blasts can be heard in the distance. Hollow Shades, a once prosperous city, was under siege by the Solar Guard. The tiny bat-pony barely old enough to speak wondered unattended through the rubble of the city as corpses of its citizens laid on the stone-block paved roads. "Mummy...*sniffle* please..." As the foal wiped the tears from his face, a warm embrace overtook the weeping colt with relief. "There, there... Mummy's got you. It's okay, you're safe. I'm not going to let anything happen to you Alacard" A silver bat pony with bright baby-blue eyes assured as she held her foal tight while tears coursed down her face to be soaked up by her white mane. The dam pulled away to gaze upon her precious creation. "I thought i had lost you... Thank Luna you're okay!" *.FADES INTO SILENCE.* "...Hey, runt. Wake up!" A raspy voice demanded as Alacard regained consciousness. "Where.. am i? ...Where's mummy?" questioned Alacard while lifting himself off a cold-moist-stone floor. "Hah! you're mommy? ...She's most likely dead." Teases a shadowy figure from a neighboring cell. "No! my... my mummy was just hwugging me.." The foal begins to weep. "Hehe, don't worry, you'll be reunited with her soon enough." continues to tease the shadowy figure. "Look around you little foal. You're in an empty cell... Do you know why?" An ancient hypogryph with mangled crimson feathers and a black vulture-like beak emerged from the shadows. Its eyes bright as an ember with a ravaging thirst being emitted from them. "You like the rest of your kind are being held captive." Mocked the hypogryph. "After Princes Luna was defeated, your kin was deemed a danger to pony society. ...The situation escalated when Commander Vlad was executed for being associated with Faux's plans to destroy the Canterlot Parliament." The Hypogryph explained as the Colt observed with a confused expression. "Bah, why do I bother. I doubt you understand the situation you're in. You won't even suffer through your death. So young and without regrets." The Hypogryph squawked as the foals tears began to dry. "I...do have regwets...I undwastand death because my daty died when my mummy was pwegnant with me. I neva got to meet him. Death...is when a pony disappeaws and neva comes back rwight? If that's what's going to happen to me...I would regwet disappeawing without saying goodbye to mummy. I wouldn't want her to worwy about me." Explains Alacard with an upset look in his eyes as he begins to hang his head down. "My, my, I underestimated your level of comprehension little one. Hehehehe, how about a deal?" The vulture proposes as a wicked smile forms on its face. "What's a deal?" Alacard questions while slightly tilting his head towards the hypogryph. "A deal is a gift like the one you receive on Heart's Warming Eve, but you have to give me a gift back later." Explains the demonic creature. "You'll give me a gift?" Questions the curious foal as he demonstrates interest. "It pains me to see such a pure soul be forsaken. You have an entire life of corruption ahead of you little one. If you accept my deal, you maybe even more...hehe. Do you want to see your mama again? I can give you a chance to see her." Persuades the devilish hypogryph. To its expectations, Alacard turns his attention to the squawking hybrid. "I wanna see my mummy." answers Alacard. "What's the point of dying when you have the option to live. With my help you can see your mama again, and perhaps never loose her again." Continues to preach the hypogryph. "How?" Questions Alacard. "By granting you power!" Answers the hypogryph. "Commander, the prisoners have been cleared out of their cells and executed." A voice can be heard from up a stone stairway found at the end of the dungeon's hallway. "Good...we have received orders from Celestia to execute the young as well. You are to round up the foals and prep them for execution." Responds another voice. "Commander, that's... that's just..Those are your orders soldier! Dare you not question our princess again! Do I make myself CLEAR!?" Interrupts Commander Dawn Breaker. "Sir!" Responds the soldier as the shadow of a saluting pony in armor becomes visible down the stairway. "Good, I expect the task completed before morning." Exclaims the irritated Commander. *Only the crackling of torches could be heard as silence filled the dungeon* To Alacard's shock, moments later the silence was broken by the agonizing screams of foals being beaten out of their cells. The whales echoed down the halls as the hypogryph contributed to the sonata with a mischievous laughter. "Bahaha, here comes the babadook." Teased the hypogryph as Alacard began to shake from the nearing squeals. "Tell you what. I find myself craving the delicacy that is your soul. Since you foals are typically to young to make decisions for yourselves. I'll let fate guide your decision." The hypogryph squawked at the inattentive trembling foal. "I'll give you a sample of the power I promise." A voice answered as Alacard noticed the now empty cell from across the hall. *Twitch* Alacard's ears reacted to the gravely voice coming from behind him. As Alacard turned to the demonic creature he felt the sharp prick of talons on the back of his neck. "Agh" Alacard groaned as a dark sigil formed on his nape. A Scarlet aura enveloped the sigil as the tiny foal began to transform. "Is that all of them?" Questioned a solar guard as he approached a fellow soldier. "No, there's one left in cell four at sector V." Mentions his commerad. "Aye, let's hurry. The Commander is in a bad mood. I wouldn't want to end up with the lot of foals." Responds the solar guard. "I still don't understand why we're sending young to their graves." Mentions his commerad. "Orders are orders. Besides, it's for the safety of our great nation. And for the safety of our families. Genocide is the price they paid when assaulting our leaders and siding with Nightmare Moon." Responds the guard. "Yeah, ...your right. Vlad almost prolonged the civil war in Equestria. Neighboring countries would have surely invaded. Responded his comrade as they approached Alacard's cell. A sudden chilling breeze extinguished the torch-light of the hall as darkness enveloped the guards. "What the?" "On your guard" Peeped both guards as one of them prepped an illumination spell. Rusted stone bricks and a long dark hallway was all the soldiers could distinguish in the belly of darkness. Pointed ears peaked from the ceiling as drool leaked onto a soldier's cheek. "What's this?" A guard exclaimed as dark mesh began surrounding them. The squeals of two stallions could be heard throughout the dungeon followed by a tearing of flesh. "What in Celestia was that?" Questioned commander Dawn Guard as the barrack full of Solar Guards became static. The silence was soon accompanied by a gust of wind followed by the gluttonous darkness. "Soldiers! On your guard! It appears we've been infiltrated. Magic wielders! Give us some visibility!" Orders the commander. A few moments pass after the room had become dimmed with light. Nothing but silence surrounded the dungeon's barracks. If a pony where to concentrate, the only sounds receipted would be the faint echoes of weeping foals in the distance along with the clanking of armor from the frightened rookies. What was visible of the barracks displayed a large rusted stone box with a pair of support pillars on every corner. There where two halls separated by a corner which where being guarded. One lead to a division of private quarters following an exit to the Solar castle's courtyard used for executions. While the other hallway lead to the prison's main hall. Both halls proposed an equal threat in the events of an invasion. The Commander kept a close eye on both pits of darkness as dragging sound became louder with the passing seconds. *Plop* A sack of mangled flesh splashes blood on the unfortunate stallions guardian the prison hall. Two soldiers puke as the rest stood in shock. The commander stared in confusion at the mangled remains. 'What? ... I've never heard of such a ritual... Could some beast have stowed into the prison?' Thought the commander as dark mesh began to creep behind him. "Ahhhh!" The mesh began to engulf his limbs as sharp curved teeth emerged from it to hook the stallion in its grasp. The stagnant soldiers quickly turned their attention away from the halls to face the commander being butchered behind them. The large blob of darkness began to take the shape of a large wolf's head with hundreds of ember eyes and teeth all around it. The unicorns quickly began casting holy spells after processing what they where up against. The wolf mesh sprouted dark tentacles from its mouth that jabbed towards the unicorns. Soldiers scattered towards the exit after the unicorns where left penetrated and dismembered by the projectiles. "That's it Alacard! Kill them all!" A voice demanded as vulgar images transmitted into Alacard's mind from the slaughtered soldiers. The images depicted atrocities committed by the assimilated individual. Images that a foal should never have to bare. "Hehehehehe! This is the reality of pony kind Alacard! Murder, Rape, Blackmail, Cheating! The list goes on!" A demonic voice announces as Alacard continued his hate-fueled rampage. Unexpectedly, Alacard stops pursuing the fleeing soldiers. "What! What is it!? Why did you stop!? They're getting away!" Complains the vulture. The dark blob begins to shrink as Alacard regains his form. At the foul's hooves, a stallion with a navy blue coat and a long black mane laid dead. "Datty? ...you...i...?" questioned Alacard as the stagnant image of a ravaged mare panting on a prison floor crossed his mind. "Well... that was a buzzkill. You encountered your biological father, did ya now? Yes, its true. You're the spawn of this Pegasus. A bastard conceived during war-times. Hah, your mama always told you he had died a war-hero didn't she?" Squawked the hypogriph as it manifested itself behind Alacard. "You see little one, every pony takes advantage of what they can in this life. Nothing has a true value or purpose to their name. Everything and every pony is an expandable tool/resource. Your mama was this stallion's sex relief, nothing more. Hah! In this cruel reality! You are either a sheep or you are a wolf! ...A few moments ago, you where about to be executed along with the remaining young of your kind. Instead of raising your generation with purity and zeal. Genocide became the preferable alternative. Why!? Because Celestia like i are wolves among sheep! Your pitiful existence matters not in the scale of a deity!" Mocks the devil as he glares at the traumatized foal. The vulture's ember eyes glowed brighter with every breath Alacard took. the foal dropped his head away from the stallion's corpse while shutting his eyes in sorrow. "Mummy...datty... my familly... my life... it's all meaningless... why?... WHY!? Why can't pony kind just STOP HURTING EACH OTHER!?" Barks the tearing colt as he faces his father. Why do you toy with us devil!?" demands Alacard with a surprising confidence. "Are... you not going to agree... pony kind is worthless? ...Heh, you're angry at me?" Questions the devil while stepping closer to the foal. "Why do you believe that i'm to blame? I do not attach strings to their limbs and mouths while controlling their every last action they make." Squawks the devil in defiance. "The power you granted me just earlier. It... was pure hatred... You... you're no deity! You're a miasma manifested from sin. You feed on hatred, fear, corruption. You are not a part of us... but we did create you. A lingering addiction for gratification. The way i absorbed the lives of all the ponies i slaughtered... You fed on their tainted souls corrupted by sin. It prolongs your existence. So yes, i blame you. Because you are recklessness incarnate." Concludes Alacard as he begins walking up to the vulture. "Hahahaha! Wow! I did not expect to encounter a foal with the wisdom of a sage! Hah! ...It's a bit unexpected, if i must be frank. Random would be the proper word but Discord was defeated a few hundred years back so i accept this spontaneity as my doing. Now, ...my question to you Alacard, what will you do now? Chirps the unsettled vulture as he stands static awaiting the foal to reach his position. "I'll take your deal recklessness!" Demands the trotting foal. "The name is Lewd. And it would be my pleasure to accept your soul. Hah!" Gloats the hypogryph. "About that, you have no power over a pony unless they commit sin. Unless they act upon reckless behavior for the sake of gratification. An act denoted by the harming of themselves and others. The more sin corrupting pony's heart, the greater your power grows when you consume their soul, am i correct?" Questions Alacard without dropping a speck of confidence. "Yes, you are correct yet again. I am incapable of snagging the soul of a pony that practices abstinence from live's perversions. The greater the sinner, the more lives affected, the greater i grow. By accepting my deal, you will be granted unimaginable power and immortality. But at the price of your soul once it's ripe for the picking." Mocks the hypogryph. "So that's it? You grant immortality to ponies with the purpose of fermenting their souls? Okay... Lewd, i accept your deal. I'll become a pawn of your creation, but you will never have my soul. I will prove to you that pony kind can learn to care and respect one another." Alacard holds up a hoof as he finally reaches Lewd. "Hehehehehe, I look forward to claiming your soul one day ...Alacard." Concludes Lewd as it shakes Alacard's hoof. *.Fades Into Silence.* ********************************************************* The clanking of ice cubes is followed by a swerving straw within a glass of blood. Alacard remains stagnant on the ledge of Rich Inc. "Why... was i remembering that... just now?" Questions Alacard as the beating sun begins to boil his exposed flash. "Oh? ...The sun has begun to drop." Mentions the dazed Alacard as he tilts his umbrella hat and moves to take refuge in the shade. "Ah, the discomforts of being a Vamppony. The burning is tolerable but the memories triggered by the sun are agonizing." Alacard begins ranting to himself as he punts the glass of the building. "Well, looks like Synapse has managed to diminish the size of the storm fleet. Guess i was right about him. He hasn't changed in any way. His will burns as strong as always. His heart aches to protect the once he loves. I'm glad you remember... I hope it's not too late for me... Will you keep your promise, my friend?" Rants Alacard as he observes the dragon destroying a zeppelin- then shortly switching his view towards nurse gentle heart- then concluding with a peaceful smile while looking back at the agile dragon. After a grim look to his past. Alacard is eased by the fact that we ponies are all alike in terms of serenity. We all share a common caring heart and an affinity towards love. Sometimes a pony's perception can be tainted by a thorn in their heart. Festering by unwanted perverted events in life. Corrupted thoughts and hatred emerging from the puss. A choice must be made. Let our hearts rot with hatred and our souls fester with displeasure, or learn to respect what life offers and abstain from furthering temptation on perversion. Synapse walks a warm path towards a serene perception. A healthy pony with an aspiring personality and new found values. 'I hope to walk beside you on the same trail someday. Free from my curse and warmth all around.' Alacard thinks to himself as he drops into a dark alley bellow. A trench between two skyscrapers where the light does not touch. A cannonball hits the wing of the transformed changeling as the dragon whales in pain. Scales scatter around the injury as Synapse continues his assault. 'I don't know how much longer i can keep this form. I have to find the flag ship before i reach my limit!' Synapse thinks to himself as he spews green flames that engulf numerous storm-beasts manning cannons. *Sonic Boom* A large circular rainbow engulfs the expanding sky as the Wonderbolts race to the city's aid. "Okay guys and gals! Objective up-ahead! Those son of a mules think they can invade Equestria! Pffft, yeah right! LET'S POP THOSE BALLOONS!!" Commands Spit Fire as the Wonderbolts enter a Valkyrie formation with Rainbow Dash in the center.
A Hero's JourneyThe night sky covered the sea like a delicate Veil of twinkles. Hoofprints marked the moist sediment like a trail of past doings. He stood gazing at the horizon, observing how the moon imprinted itself onto the water. "A villain, nothing more than a villain is what they see. A villain is all they believe I'll ever be." mutters Synapse under his breath. The changeling stood wearing a dark coat that was visible even in the dark of the night. "I can't believe it's over. My mission is finally at rest. Yet, I find myself lost in thought. Who am I? How did I get here and where will I go?" Synapse pondered to himself. Gentle hoofs dug through the sand as Synapse became slowly aware of another presence. "Hey, are you feeling better?" Asked a small colt with a gentle voice. "Yeah, I'm just trying to figure things out." Synapse responded. "Oh, you haven't yet accepted your fate as the villain of the story?" The colt remarked. ..... 'Silence' ..... "Why are you here Allacard? Do you not have anywhere else important to be?" questioned Synapse. "I have an eternity to get whatever I need to done. ..Besides, I enjoy your company. You are the embodiment of a screw up, you know." responded Allacard. "At least you're blunt for a blood sucker. ...how do you deal with it? " comments Synapse. "I beg your pardon?" exclaimed Allacard as his pointed ears peaked from his tricorne hat. The colt was a bat-pony with a navy blue coat and a curly long mane. The colt looked straight at the changeling with mocking ember eyes. "How do you deal with knowing that no matter how much good you accomplish, you will always be characterized as a villain for the more impactful demeanors?" Synapse questions. "I simply don't care" Allacard states with an opulent smile. ..... 'Silence' ..... "Were it so easy" Synapse remarks. The two figures remained in focus as the moon rose from where the horizon ended. "All of equestria treats me as rubbish. I feel forsaken, you know. A villain is meant to remain as an obstacle for a protagonist... for the progress of a hero." Synapse explains. "Well, that's a funny way of putting it. You make the hero seem like the relevant part of the story, but the truth is that a villain defines the story's outcome." Allacard preaches. "Why is that?" Synapse questions. "Because without a a villain, a hero can not exist." Allacard explains. "That doesn't change the fact that a villain's fate is that of an obstacle." Synapse comments. "Aye, but nobody is truly ever stuck as one or the other, everybody is a villain in some pony's story. Use yourself as that example." Allacard mocks. "Allacard, you are beginning to pester me." Synapse remarks. "Don't take it the wrong way, l simply believe that the idea of a villain is saturated by social bias. The simple depiction that a hero is 'Good' blinds the interpreters into believing that a villain is always at 'Bad'. This nation has been subliminally depicting mules and zebras as terrible lesser beings for countless generations. The same goes for my kind. Unfortunately some ponies believe every last word that is fed to them because of the fear of unfamiliarity and unpredictability." Allacard rants. "What's your point blood sucker?" Synapse questions. "Well, Ponies fear what they can't predict. That is why they search for a prediction done for them. Clouding their own judgement with unknown stereotypes. And if that pony is insecure enough, they will always go with what they are told is 'Better' for them. I for one believe that life is to be experienced and discovered for one's self. A single moment does not define the rest of time. Maturity and growth always cause a pony to change. Nothing is set in stone, and every pony make mistakes. The happiest ponies are the once that stick with it and they work with it to surpass any mistakes. Although, there are always ponies that rather search for another answer and a temporary feel of gratification. Until they realize that they had the same exact thing, if not better, on the other side." Allacard continues to rant as the moonlight amplifies the luminosity of his eyes. Synapse turns to the colt with piercing curiosity. "The point being that you're already a hero. You just focussed so much on being a supporting character for the Equestrian B.O.A. that you forgot about your own story and ended up becoming an obstacle." Allacard explains. Synapse turns to observe the moonlit calm water over the horizon. "You let your self-value be crushed, and now you're a villain like me. Except 'pitiful." explains Allacard "What should I do?" asks Synapse. "That's up to you to decide. You just have to flesh your story out by being your true self. I hope you remember the hero you once were. It's no fun not having an arch rival anymore. And you make a pathetic villain." answers Allacard. The two figures continued to observe the moonlit calm of the sea. As the moon rose even hire, a soft "Thank you" peeped from Synapse. Ironically, a hero's closest bond is always with their villain. On that night, a new friendship was formed and an old rivalry re-Kindled. * * * The Next Day * * * Synapse awoke with a pain in his back. Sleeping on sand is never as comfortable as it may seem. The changeling lifted his withering chitin and shook the sand off. "When did I fall asleep?" Synapse asks himself. He begins trotting towards civilization as he sees mare laying on the beach. The mare is shivering and appears dazed. Synapse decides to approach her. "Hey, are you okay?" the changeling asks. As Synapse scans the mare for any injuries, he comes across what seems to be a bug bite on the mare's neck. "Buck, Allacard this was your doing." comments Synapse as he strategizes what to do with the sickly mare. The words of the mocking colt ring in his ears, "I hope you remember..." as Synapse begins to lift the mare on his back. "I guess this is happening." Synapse mentions to himself as he gallops to the nearest infirmary. The once nihilistic changeling has now taken a step back towards nobility. What was once a purger of life and values, was now defending a life, which in turn gave him values. Painful groans suddenly break free from the dazed mare on the changeling's back. "Hold on, we are almost there!" Synapse ensures as he gallops past the dock and onto the boardwalk while zigzagging through crowds of ponies. The infirmary rapidly grew in size as the changeling galloped past all obstacles. *Groans* "Just a bit further!" Synapse exclaims as he bursts through the doors of the infirmary.
What Doesn't Kill YouThe doors burst wide open as the galloping changeling rushed towards the front counter. Patients and staff alike stare at the unreformed changeling. It had been an entire seasonal cycle since the reform had happened. For the citizens of Baltimare, unreformed changelings had become a myth. "Mam, I found this mare laying about the beach. She appears to be in a state of chronic anaemia. She must see a doctor at once!" Exclaimed Synapse as he approached the counter. The desk attendant then hit the com and requested "I need any available staff ready at the front desk. We have another case of emergency in relation to anemia." Synapse stared at the unconscious mare's pale apple green mane as it covered his shoulder. "It appears Alacard helped himself to a feeding frenzy, ...or perhaps it's more of the vast spread chaos that amuses him. " Synapse thought to himself. The nurse's hoof glided away from the intercom. "Thank you for helping a mare in need. She will be attended shortly sir...?". "Synapse, you may call me Synapse." Synapse responded. "Synapse? That's an interesting name. It's the same name given to the link between two neurones. A meeting of identities sharing a concord. It's kinda romantic. In a sense, Synapse can be interpreted as harmony." Explained the nurse with a bashful smile. "Um.. Thank you." Synapse responded awkwardly. The changeling had noticed her soft flirtatious stare but wasn't sure how to interpret her interaction. All of the other ponies around them had been whispering to one another while staring at the unreformed changeling. "Oh, but where are my manners. My name is Gentle Heart." Mentions the pale aquamarine mare. As she rubs the back of her white-gold maned head nervously. The mare began calming down after receiving a smile from Synapse. As the two shared gentle looks at one another, the door to the emergency hallway burst open. Multiple nurses galloped out and lifted the mare off Synapse's back and onto a stretcher. Out of the four medics scrambling to get the mare into an emergency room, a stallion wearing a lab coat approached Synapse. "The patient appears to be in a state of shock, but her stern expression indicates that the anemia isn't a threat to her life since she appears to have enough fight left in her. Did you by any chance see what may have caused this?" The doctor questioned. "I'm sorry, but i found her like this on the beach. I don't know what may have been the cause." Synapse responds. "Well, thank you for bringing her and helping a pony in need. You are welcome to stay if you wish to observe her progress." The doctor mentions with a tired and cold smile. "I, uh, I have some matters to attend to. I appreciate the offer but I will deny it. It puts me at ease to know that she'll be alright. Thank you." Synapse answers with a slightly shamed expression. "Very well, but may I at least have your name? I believe the patient deserves to know the name of her hero." Persuades the doctor. "My name is Synapse." The changeling responds with a bashful look. "It's a pleasure to meet you Synapse, I'm doctor Lister. I'm the head of this beach side facility. ...Now, I must get back to attending my patients." The doctor concludes with a weary smile as he trots over to the moving stretcher. The medics soon disappear into the emergency room allowing Gentle Heart to continue her conversation with Synapse. "May I ask, what brings you to Baltimare? It's unusual to encounter a changeling." Questions the bashful mare. "I'm... I seek knowledge. " Response the changeling. "Oh, so you are here as a tourist? Well, Baltimare isn't a great place for sight-seeing, but I hope you enjoy your stay." nurse gentle heart explains as she gives a gentle confused look. "...I'm not here to sight-see. At the risk of sounding stale, I hope to find myself wherever I may find him." Mentions Synapse with a slight concerned expression. "Oh! I apologize for touching the subject. I understand that it must be difficult for a traditional changeling to find acceptance in Equestria. ...There's no reason to be concerned around me Synapse. I'm not a part of what the world is about. ...I've actually never met a changeling. I feel honored to have met you the way you are." Responds nurse gentle heart as her concentrated glance begins wandering about. "If you don't mind me asking, what do you mean by what the world is about?" Questions Synapse while tilting his head slightly to the right. "It's just about the end of my night shift. How about I treat you to some delicious apple pie. It's imported directly from pony ville." Mentions Gentle Heart as she begins to organize her station while another nurse patiently waits behind her to take her place. As the two ponies walk out of the infirmary and onto the beach's board walk, Synapse attempts to continue the conversation. "So... What did you mean by 'what the world's about'?" Questions Synapse while trotting alongside Gentle Heart. "Here's a riddle, what breaks a family, puts people on the streets, and causes the insane to break into laughter? ....As a matter of fact, it causes all of us to break in some way." Riddles Gentle Heart. "Life, society, abuse, hatred, hurt, division, tainted Love, hurt trust?" Questions Synapse sequentiality. "Good answers but what do they all have in common?" Mocks Gentle Heart. "A governing force of some kind?" Responds Synapse. "Do you give up? Well, the answer is pressure." Comments Gentle Heart. "Pressure?" Questions Synapse with peaking curiosity. "Yes pressure. It's the force that gives us terror of what is hidden. It's what breaks the strongest of love into hatred and disgust. It's what corrupts the most noble of knights. It's a laughing joke on all of our attempts towards abstinence from life's perversions. It's what causes us to deny the ones we love the most a second chances. It's what creates fear, self-doubt, and insecurity. Yes, pressure. I as a nurse know the feeling all too well. But, as a nurse, I never let it control me. ...That said, we all make mistakes while pressured." Rants Gentle Heart as she turns to face the sky for a moment while trotting. "Did you notice how cold of a pony Dr. Lister is? ...Pressure has caused the good Dr. to break emotionally. He was once the top doctor in Baltimare, but with great status comes great responsibility along with great pressure. One day, he cut into a patient's lung while he nervously spasmed for the first time during an operation. The poor stallion lost everything." Continues Gentle Heart. While switching her view towards Synapse then the slightly towards the ground. "That's awful..." Responds Synapse with a concerned expression. "Yes, pressure is the governing force that creates all misfortunes. Accidents such as muscle spasms can't be avoided, but choices/decisions can. Sometimes pressure can be a good thing. Like when an eagle throws its young off a nest. ...Unfortunately, pressure also has its downsides. When the changeling reform took place, Canterlot declared that any unreformed changelings where to be rounded up and deported back to the badlands." Mentions Gentle Heart. "Yes, I heard of the events, but i never expected for the Princes herself to declare such a decree." Exclaims Synapse. "The Princes is a bit of an imperialistic hag, or at least she was during the time of my grandmother. The decree was actually issued by the council with the excuse that changelings couldn't be trusted." Explains Gentle Heart. "I've noticed the expressions that ponies have been giving me as we walk by. ...They all seem paranoid." Mentions Synapse. The nurse takes a moment to gaze around at the flocks of ponies staring at them as they walk by. "...Racism are old ideas pressured into the youth of a population by the propaganda of old war times and of imperialistic expansion that manipulated false-hatred and stereotypes into the minds of our grand parents." Remarks Gentle Heart. As the two ponies trot alongside one another. Wide gaps of boardwalk form around them. "That's where the choices come into play. Most ponies choose to fit in and follow the popular belief being preached at them by a persuading force. Like when a classmate offers you a drug or when you are pressured by 'ideal' sexuality propaganda. Individuals, families/friends, and governments all use pressure to submit ponies into avoidable undoable acts. Like in the case of drugs or the abuse of free-love, sometimes addictions or shame forever cage a pony into a life of perversions and self destruction that will also harm those around them. As depicted in the lyrics for Hotel Canterlot. If you've ever heard that song." References Gentle Heart. The two pass by a news paper stand while trotting. The article on the front page depicts a zebra being arrested. The title read, "Zebra activists detained after assaulting peaceful pony supremacist rally!" The mare and the changeling observe the stand but continue trotting down the boardwalk. "Ideas are recycled in our society under pressure. The Old follow their trusted old-ways at their convenience, the Adults follow the media/popular beliefs, and the young learn from their elders. All pressured by the fear of "not doing what is 'ideally' necessary". While In reality, it's the fear of not fitting In. ...But ponies like me follow our hearts while using our wits. *Giggles* I choose not to gain from the world while leaving it colder, or would it be warmer? *Giggles* ...I choose to give. And not in the common materialistic manner that ponies use to give themselves a false sense of nobility." Mentions Gentle Heart while shifting from a grim look to a warm smile. The nurse turns to Synapse while smiling. "Responsibility, love, and making noble choices are all parts of being a good nurse!" Exclaims nurse Gentle Heart with an exuberant attitude. "I must say. I have never met a pony such as yourself. You...I think you're the very definition of a true hero. My admirations to you nurse Gentle Heart." Mentions Synapse with a warm smile. The nurse blushes and turns to face forward with bashful gestures. "Hey look! The pie shop is right up ahead! Hahaha..." Gentle Heart exclaims nervously. The mare catches her emotions and turns to observe the changeling that now appears to be taller and broader in appearance. She begins to feel a sense of soothing comfort around him. "Synapse, I believe there's a hero in all of us. It keeps us honest, it gives us strength, and makes us noble. ...Thank you very much for the compliment. It means a lot. Uuuh! I only wish other ponies would be so courageous as to be steady and show humility along with compassion to others!" Gentle Heart expresses with exaggerated gestures while maintaining a bitter-sweet expression. 'Humility and compassion? Was that what I lost? In turn, did I loose my nobility? It appears that what I lost may have been respect for my self and for those around me. ...This mare, I owe her my gratitude. Although, Is it blind respect for her status and actions? Like the respect I had for my commanding officers in the spec-ops unit, or is it that I respect her for who she is? Is this the lost respect? The respect for an individual's reality. Not judging it and not interfering in it like a lover that wrecks a home? Can ponies share this type of respect to one another someday? Perhaps such mutual respect is the answer. Perhaps respect and compassion end the perversions set be pressure. She makes me...feel... harmonious...' ponders Synapse to himself. "Stories of heroes are rare in our age. The elements of harmony shouldn't be the only participants of the practice towards harmony." Mentions Gentle Heart. Interrupting Synapse's thoughts. "I...agree..." Agrees Synapse while flashing a warm smile. "I thought I was the only mare in this city courageous enough to care for the sake of compassion to others. ...Until I met you." States Gentle Heart as she turns towards Synapse with an infatuated smile. The mare and changeling finally reached the pie shop while gazing upon one another. As they peaked through the front entry, a soothing sent of cinnamon apple pies surfed through their nostrils. Synapse and Gentle Heart parted their vision from one another only to find the shop workers closing. "What? What's going on? Did you sell all of the pies already?" Questions Gentle Heart with a disappointed tone. "We're sorry mam, but we received word that Big MacIntosh won't be delivering today. They found him collapsed outside of the city. He appears to have come up with a case of anemia. Whatever that is." Explains the shop keeper while rubbing his head. "Oh fui, I guess I'll have to treat you some other time Synapse." Mentions Gentle Heart as she turns towards Synapse and then back to the shop keeper. "Come back tomorrow! I'm sure we'll have thing sorted out by then. Thank you for your visit!" Mentions the shopkeeper as Synapse and Gentle Heart turn away and begin walking out. "Well, that was disappointing." States Gentle Heart as they walk onto the boardwalk. "I really appreciate the time we spent Gentle Heart. Thank you." Mentions Synapse with a peaceful warm smile. As they gaze at each other. With an infatuated intention, the background becomes illuminated with a white-gold light that flickers for a second before being followed by a loud disturbance. An explosion followed by dozens more began to engulf the beach! Crowds of ponies begin fleeing the area as screams become silent from all directions before the screeching of the mortars once again compliment the agonized ponies. The nurse and the changeling separate while turning their gaze towards multiple directions. In the distance, a dark zeppelin peaks from over the horizon. Synapse notices a dark cloud forming around the aircraft as a new barrage of projectile leave the haul of the vessel. More explosions engulf the beach as Synapse turns to Gentle Heart. "We've got to get out of here!" Shouts Synapse at the mare. "We can't, there are injured ponies on the beach!" Exclaims Nurse Gentle Heart as she rushes towards the crowd's opposite direction. 'Dammit, the area must be a capture point of some sort. Remaining on the beach is a Terrible idea!' Thinks Synapse to himself. "Right behind you!" Mentions Synapse as they gallop towards the fallen and dismembered ponies. Synapse notices that the beach has been tinted red and black with the charcoaled remains of the unfortunate. Explosions remain at a constant around them. The Apple shop they had ran out off had been hit and only splinters remained. While in the distance, more Zeppelins peaked over the dark cloud. 'A damn invasion force? Who's invading? Better question, why am I running towards the mortars? ...is it worth saving those that have been forsaken by fate? Is a pony's life worth my own? ...Is a hero a simple idea of honor and glory, or is it much more?' ponders Synapse while avoiding incoming projectiles. While maneuvering around the beach Synapse fails to notice the unstable magical residue on the sand. "Crap!" Shouts Synapse. *Boom!* The nurse halts and turns back to see Synapse engulfed by the blast. "Synapse!" Exclaims the mare with an agonized shock. As the smoke clears off from the darkened sand, a dark beast leaps out of the cloud of glass and cinder. Gliding over Gentle Heart and breathing green flames that burn the magical mortars out of existence. "..Synapse?" Questions the mare shocked and confused. As the mare gazes upon the giant pitch black dragon with a crown of thorns and glowing white eyes. Gentle Heart becomes entranced into a state of thought. 'That's rite! Changelings have the ability to shipshape. Although, most transmissions have been recorded to be only illusions. ...Could this be an actual transformation? ...So, this is the power of a...changeling. ...How in Faust's name did Canterlot survive an invasion from such powerful creatures?' A deep rawr echoes out of the transformed changeling as he shields Gentle Heart from the barrage of mortars. "Go! Use your magic and help the wounded. I'll cover you by clearing the area from any incoming projectiles." Mentions Synapse in a deep draconic voice. The dragon lifts itself off the ground and takes to the sky in the direction of the zeppelins. As Synapse continues to catch the magical blasts on his scales, thoughts emerge from the changeling. 'Pressure can sometimes be a good thing... Like when an eagle throws its young off a nest... Am I pressured to save to risk myself for the sake of the ponies under siege? ...No, good pressure is not pressure at all. No pony wants me to save them. No pony expects me to save them. Compassion is what I feel. Compassion is what an eagle allows their young as a parent by pushing them off a nest. Compassion is not pity, it is sympathy, respect, and love for another. This damn nation, no, this damn world has tainted the meaning of the word to a generic Hoofle definition. Everything runs on the idea of giving and receiving to the point where compassion isn't seen as a selfless act of valor anymore. Gentle Heart is right, there aren't enough stories of real heroes in our modern era. ...BUT THAT CAN CHANGE. I CAN CHANGE! The dragon speeds up while catching the mortars on his wings. If a mortar where to pass his wings, he'd make sure to whip them out of existence with his powerful tail. On the ground, crowds of ponies stop fleeing in astonishment at the sight a dragon helping them. "Has the infirmary been completely evacuated?" Questions Dr. Lister as a nurse approaches him. "Yes, the patients are being transported directly to Baltimare General" Answers the pale yellow nurse with dark blue eyes and a white mane. Dr. Lister switches his gaze from the distant nurse Gentle Heart to nurse Apricot. Another couple dozen staff members approach behind her. "Good work but our duty as medics is to help save as many lives as we can. Given the circumstances, I understand if not all of you share the point of view. Although, I for one believe that my duty is out there on the battlefield. Our patients are in good hands now, so for any pony that wants to aid Nurse Gentle Heart along side me, that would be most appreciated." Preaches Dr. Lister as he begins to gallop over towards the battlefield. Meanwhile as the enemy becomes increasingly close to landing on the beach. "Commander, a dragon has appeared out of nowhere and is flying in our direction!" Informs a storm unit while looking through a black and teal telescope. "A dragon aiding the ponies of Baltimare...? Remarks commander Storm as he snags the telescope. "Well, would you look at that! A dragon is aiding the ponies of equestria. Very well! ...Seize the magic mortars! Arm the cannons! Magic can't penetrate a dragon's scales, but spiked cannon balls can! Ha!" Commands Storm in a mocking manner. As he steps forward to lean on the deck's railing. "Now, why are they sending a single dragon against a fleet?." Whispers Commander storm to himself. While invoking a concentrated grin on his face. A few miles away on the tallest point of Baltimare, Allacard sits with a large black umbrella hat while sipping a glass of blood. The colt observes the warzone while resting near the edge of the building. "It appears that Synapse is still a formidable opponent. Although, that dragon form must be exhausting. I wonder how much longer he can keep it up. *Sip* ...I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Hehe" mocks Allacard as he ends with a bright smile.
The Hero In All Of UsAuthor's Note Okay! This chapter becomes dark and frankly a tad profane. If you are not used to profanity and nihilistic speeches. This is not for you! Do not get offended by my use of words. Just because i use SIN does not mean that i'm religious. If you are religious, please do not rant about the word of god or my inclusion of demonic figures. Enjoy the reading and perhaps learn a bit from it. Moral of the story- Shit happens! But we are all individually responsible for our own problems. A healthy pony keeps proper boundaries and learns to respect those of others. The Hero In All Of Us Midday approached as a barrage of Cannon balls disrupted the tranquility of the still blue sky. Nurse Gentle Heart exhaustedly casted a healing spell on a fallen Pegasus. "There, I've stopped the bleeding. Unfortunately, I can't do anything about the tendons. At least not here without the right tools." Explains Gentle Heart as she flashes a weary smile. "Thank you" Expresses a weakened Pegasus as he is lifted to be carried away by two unicorns casting a levitation spell. "Your efforts have inspired others to lend a hand Nurse Gentle Heart. If I had known you where this committed. I would've had you doing more than simple desk duty over at the clinic. ...While everypony fled, you continued your duty." Mentions Dr. Lister as he trots towards Gentle Heart. The Stallion was an earth pony with a five o'clock shadow and a short walnut spiked mane. His beige coat peaked from the orifices of his long pure-white lab coat. "Always glad to lend a hand sir!" Exclaims the nurse while panting from exhaustion. Black body bags piled-up in the scenery as civilians contributed by either tending to the wounded or clean-up duty. "Call me Lister, there is no need for addressing me as your superior. Frankly i should be the one addressing you with utmost respect, given the circumstances." The doctor complimented as the mare collapsed on her belly. "Take a break Gentle Heart, you've done more than your fair-share. I'll take charge from here." noted the concerned doctor as he observes the exhausted mare with a polite expression. "Thank you *pant* sir, *pant* i'm just going to collapse hear *pant* for a second" pants Gentle Heart as she attempted to catch her breath while laying on the warm sand. ************************************************************* "Mummy!... mummy!...Where are you, mummy!" A frail weeping foal cried out as bomb sirens deafen the atmosphere. "Mu.. mu..mmyyy!" Continues the foal as the screeching of magical blasts can be heard in the distance. Hollow Shades, a once prosperous city, was under siege by the Solar Guard. The tiny bat-pony barely old enough to speak wondered unattended through the rubble of the city as corpses of its citizens laid on the stone-block paved roads. "Mummy...*sniffle* please..." As the foal wiped the tears from his face, a warm embrace overtook the weeping colt with relief. "There, there... Mummy's got you. It's okay, you're safe. I'm not going to let anything happen to you Alacard" A silver bat pony with bright baby-blue eyes assured as she held her foal tight while tears coursed down her face to be soaked up by her white mane. The dam pulled away to gaze upon her precious creation. "I thought i had lost you... Thank Luna you're okay!" *.FADES INTO SILENCE.* "...Hey, runt. Wake up!" A raspy voice demanded as Alacard regained consciousness. "Where.. am i? ...Where's mummy?" questioned Alacard while lifting himself off a cold-moist-stone floor. "Hah! you're mommy? ...She's most likely dead." Teases a shadowy figure from a neighboring cell. "No! my... my mummy was just hwugging me.." The foal begins to weep. "Hehe, don't worry, you'll be reunited with her soon enough." continues to tease the shadowy figure. "Look around you little foal. You're in an empty cell... Do you know why?" An ancient hypogryph with mangled crimson feathers and a black vulture-like beak emerged from the shadows. Its eyes bright as an ember with a ravaging thirst being emitted from them. "You like the rest of your kind are being held captive." Mocked the hypogryph. "After Princes Luna was defeated, your kin was deemed a danger to pony society. ...The situation escalated when Commander Vlad was executed for being associated with Faux's plans to destroy the Canterlot Parliament." The Hypogryph explained as the Colt observed with a confused expression. "Bah, why do I bother. I doubt you understand the situation you're in. You won't even suffer through your death. So young and without regrets." The Hypogryph squawked as the foals tears began to dry. "I...do have regwets...I undwastand death because my daty died when my mummy was pwegnant with me. I neva got to meet him. Death...is when a pony disappeaws and neva comes back rwight? If that's what's going to happen to me...I would regwet disappeawing without saying goodbye to mummy. I wouldn't want her to worwy about me." Explains Alacard with an upset look in his eyes as he begins to hang his head down. "My, my, I underestimated your level of comprehension little one. Hehehehe, how about a deal?" The vulture proposes as a wicked smile forms on its face. "What's a deal?" Alacard questions while slightly tilting his head towards the hypogryph. "A deal is a gift like the one you receive on Heart's Warming Eve, but you have to give me a gift back later." Explains the demonic creature. "You'll give me a gift?" Questions the curious foal as he demonstrates interest. "It pains me to see such a pure soul be forsaken. You have an entire life of corruption ahead of you little one. If you accept my deal, you maybe even more...hehe. Do you want to see your mama again? I can give you a chance to see her." Persuades the devilish hypogryph. To its expectations, Alacard turns his attention to the squawking hybrid. "I wanna see my mummy." answers Alacard. "What's the point of dying when you have the option to live. With my help you can see your mama again, and perhaps never loose her again." Continues to preach the hypogryph. "How?" Questions Alacard. "By granting you power!" Answers the hypogryph. "Commander, the prisoners have been cleared out of their cells and executed." A voice can be heard from up a stone stairway found at the end of the dungeon's hallway. "Good...we have received orders from Celestia to execute the young as well. You are to round up the foals and prep them for execution." Responds another voice. "Commander, that's... that's just..Those are your orders soldier! Dare you not question our princess again! Do I make myself CLEAR!?" Interrupts Commander Dawn Breaker. "Sir!" Responds the soldier as the shadow of a saluting pony in armor becomes visible down the stairway. "Good, I expect the task completed before morning." Exclaims the irritated Commander. *Only the crackling of torches could be heard as silence filled the dungeon* To Alacard's shock, moments later the silence was broken by the agonizing screams of foals being beaten out of their cells. The whales echoed down the halls as the hypogryph contributed to the sonata with a mischievous laughter. "Bahaha, here comes the babadook." Teased the hypogryph as Alacard began to shake from the nearing squeals. "Tell you what. I find myself craving the delicacy that is your soul. Since you foals are typically to young to make decisions for yourselves. I'll let fate guide your decision." The hypogryph squawked at the inattentive trembling foal. "I'll give you a sample of the power I promise." A voice answered as Alacard noticed the now empty cell from across the hall. *Twitch* Alacard's ears reacted to the gravely voice coming from behind him. As Alacard turned to the demonic creature he felt the sharp prick of talons on the back of his neck. "Agh" Alacard groaned as a dark sigil formed on his nape. A Scarlet aura enveloped the sigil as the tiny foal began to transform. "Is that all of them?" Questioned a solar guard as he approached a fellow soldier. "No, there's one left in cell four at sector V." Mentions his commerad. "Aye, let's hurry. The Commander is in a bad mood. I wouldn't want to end up with the lot of foals." Responds the solar guard. "I still don't understand why we're sending young to their graves." Mentions his commerad. "Orders are orders. Besides, it's for the safety of our great nation. And for the safety of our families. Genocide is the price they paid when assaulting our leaders and siding with Nightmare Moon." Responds the guard. "Yeah, ...your right. Vlad almost prolonged the civil war in Equestria. Neighboring countries would have surely invaded. Responded his comrade as they approached Alacard's cell. A sudden chilling breeze extinguished the torch-light of the hall as darkness enveloped the guards. "What the?" "On your guard" Peeped both guards as one of them prepped an illumination spell. Rusted stone bricks and a long dark hallway was all the soldiers could distinguish in the belly of darkness. Pointed ears peaked from the ceiling as drool leaked onto a soldier's cheek. "What's this?" A guard exclaimed as dark mesh began surrounding them. The squeals of two stallions could be heard throughout the dungeon followed by a tearing of flesh. "What in Celestia was that?" Questioned commander Dawn Guard as the barrack full of Solar Guards became static. The silence was soon accompanied by a gust of wind followed by the gluttonous darkness. "Soldiers! On your guard! It appears we've been infiltrated. Magic wielders! Give us some visibility!" Orders the commander. A few moments pass after the room had become dimmed with light. Nothing but silence surrounded the dungeon's barracks. If a pony where to concentrate, the only sounds receipted would be the faint echoes of weeping foals in the distance along with the clanking of armor from the frightened rookies. What was visible of the barracks displayed a large rusted stone box with a pair of support pillars on every corner. There where two halls separated by a corner which where being guarded. One lead to a division of private quarters following an exit to the Solar castle's courtyard used for executions. While the other hallway lead to the prison's main hall. Both halls proposed an equal threat in the events of an invasion. The Commander kept a close eye on both pits of darkness as dragging sound became louder with the passing seconds. *Plop* A sack of mangled flesh splashes blood on the unfortunate stallions guardian the prison hall. Two soldiers puke as the rest stood in shock. The commander stared in confusion at the mangled remains. 'What? ... I've never heard of such a ritual... Could some beast have stowed into the prison?' Thought the commander as dark mesh began to creep behind him. "Ahhhh!" The mesh began to engulf his limbs as sharp curved teeth emerged from it to hook the stallion in its grasp. The stagnant soldiers quickly turned their attention away from the halls to face the commander being butchered behind them. The large blob of darkness began to take the shape of a large wolf's head with hundreds of ember eyes and teeth all around it. The unicorns quickly began casting holy spells after processing what they where up against. The wolf mesh sprouted dark tentacles from its mouth that jabbed towards the unicorns. Soldiers scattered towards the exit after the unicorns where left penetrated and dismembered by the projectiles. "That's it Alacard! Kill them all!" A voice demanded as vulgar images transmitted into Alacard's mind from the slaughtered soldiers. The images depicted atrocities committed by the assimilated individual. Images that a foal should never have to bare. "Hehehehehe! This is the reality of pony kind Alacard! Murder, Rape, Blackmail, Cheating! The list goes on!" A demonic voice announces as Alacard continued his hate-fueled rampage. Unexpectedly, Alacard stops pursuing the fleeing soldiers. "What! What is it!? Why did you stop!? They're getting away!" Complains the vulture. The dark blob begins to shrink as Alacard regains his form. At the foul's hooves, a stallion with a navy blue coat and a long black mane laid dead. "Datty? ...you...i...?" questioned Alacard as the stagnant image of a ravaged mare panting on a prison floor crossed his mind. "Well... that was a buzzkill. You encountered your biological father, did ya now? Yes, its true. You're the spawn of this Pegasus. A bastard conceived during war-times. Hah, your mama always told you he had died a war-hero didn't she?" Squawked the hypogriph as it manifested itself behind Alacard. "You see little one, every pony takes advantage of what they can in this life. Nothing has a true value or purpose to their name. Everything and every pony is an expandable tool/resource. Your mama was this stallion's sex relief, nothing more. Hah! In this cruel reality! You are either a sheep or you are a wolf! ...A few moments ago, you where about to be executed along with the remaining young of your kind. Instead of raising your generation with purity and zeal. Genocide became the preferable alternative. Why!? Because Celestia like i are wolves among sheep! Your pitiful existence matters not in the scale of a deity!" Mocks the devil as he glares at the traumatized foal. The vulture's ember eyes glowed brighter with every breath Alacard took. the foal dropped his head away from the stallion's corpse while shutting his eyes in sorrow. "Mummy...datty... my familly... my life... it's all meaningless... why?... WHY!? Why can't pony kind just STOP HURTING EACH OTHER!?" Barks the tearing colt as he faces his father. Why do you toy with us devil!?" demands Alacard with a surprising confidence. "Are... you not going to agree... pony kind is worthless? ...Heh, you're angry at me?" Questions the devil while stepping closer to the foal. "Why do you believe that i'm to blame? I do not attach strings to their limbs and mouths while controlling their every last action they make." Squawks the devil in defiance. "The power you granted me just earlier. It... was pure hatred... You... you're no deity! You're a miasma manifested from sin. You feed on hatred, fear, corruption. You are not a part of us... but we did create you. A lingering addiction for gratification. The way i absorbed the lives of all the ponies i slaughtered... You fed on their tainted souls corrupted by sin. It prolongs your existence. So yes, i blame you. Because you are recklessness incarnate." Concludes Alacard as he begins walking up to the vulture. "Hahahaha! Wow! I did not expect to encounter a foal with the wisdom of a sage! Hah! ...It's a bit unexpected, if i must be frank. Random would be the proper word but Discord was defeated a few hundred years back so i accept this spontaneity as my doing. Now, ...my question to you Alacard, what will you do now? Chirps the unsettled vulture as he stands static awaiting the foal to reach his position. "I'll take your deal recklessness!" Demands the trotting foal. "The name is Lewd. And it would be my pleasure to accept your soul. Hah!" Gloats the hypogryph. "About that, you have no power over a pony unless they commit sin. Unless they act upon reckless behavior for the sake of gratification. An act denoted by the harming of themselves and others. The more sin corrupting pony's heart, the greater your power grows when you consume their soul, am i correct?" Questions Alacard without dropping a speck of confidence. "Yes, you are correct yet again. I am incapable of snagging the soul of a pony that practices abstinence from live's perversions. The greater the sinner, the more lives affected, the greater i grow. By accepting my deal, you will be granted unimaginable power and immortality. But at the price of your soul once it's ripe for the picking." Mocks the hypogryph. "So that's it? You grant immortality to ponies with the purpose of fermenting their souls? Okay... Lewd, i accept your deal. I'll become a pawn of your creation, but you will never have my soul. I will prove to you that pony kind can learn to care and respect one another." Alacard holds up a hoof as he finally reaches Lewd. "Hehehehehe, I look forward to claiming your soul one day ...Alacard." Concludes Lewd as it shakes Alacard's hoof. *.Fades Into Silence.* ********************************************************* The clanking of ice cubes is followed by a swerving straw within a glass of blood. Alacard remains stagnant on the ledge of Rich Inc. "Why... was i remembering that... just now?" Questions Alacard as the beating sun begins to boil his exposed flash. "Oh? ...The sun has begun to drop." Mentions the dazed Alacard as he tilts his umbrella hat and moves to take refuge in the shade. "Ah, the discomforts of being a Vamppony. The burning is tolerable but the memories triggered by the sun are agonizing." Alacard begins ranting to himself as he punts the glass of the building. "Well, looks like Synapse has managed to diminish the size of the storm fleet. Guess i was right about him. He hasn't changed in any way. His will burns as strong as always. His heart aches to protect the once he loves. I'm glad you remember... I hope it's not too late for me... Will you keep your promise, my friend?" Rants Alacard as he observes the dragon destroying a zeppelin- then shortly switching his view towards nurse gentle heart- then concluding with a peaceful smile while looking back at the agile dragon. After a grim look to his past. Alacard is eased by the fact that we ponies are all alike in terms of serenity. We all share a common caring heart and an affinity towards love. Sometimes a pony's perception can be tainted by a thorn in their heart. Festering by unwanted perverted events in life. Corrupted thoughts and hatred emerging from the puss. A choice must be made. Let our hearts rot with hatred and our souls fester with displeasure, or learn to respect what life offers and abstain from furthering temptation on perversion. Synapse walks a warm path towards a serene perception. A healthy pony with an aspiring personality and new found values. 'I hope to walk beside you on the same trail someday. Free from my curse and warmth all around.' Alacard thinks to himself as he drops into a dark alley bellow. A trench between two skyscrapers where the light does not touch. A cannonball hits the wing of the transformed changeling as the dragon whales in pain. Scales scatter around the injury as Synapse continues his assault. 'I don't know how much longer i can keep this form. I have to find the flag ship before i reach my limit!' Synapse thinks to himself as he spews green flames that engulf numerous storm-beasts manning cannons. *Sonic Boom* A large circular rainbow engulfs the expanding sky as the Wonderbolts race to the city's aid. "Okay guys and gals! Objective up-ahead! Those son of a mules think they can invade Equestria! Pffft, yeah right! LET'S POP THOSE BALLOONS!!" Commands Spit Fire as the Wonderbolts enter a Valkyrie formation with Rainbow Dash in the center.
