Quest For Salvation

Chapters

Chapter 1: Spark of Hope
Chapter 2: Logging In....
Chapter 3: The New Breed
Chapter 4: The More, The Merrier
Chapter 5: Sun and Moon
Chapter 4.5: New DLC
Chapter 6: About Eggs, part 1
Chapter 8: Enslaved
Chapter 9: A Stone Without Its Sparkle
Chapter 10: Back to the Hive
Chapter 11: Cross Country with Autumn Blaze
Chapter 12: DM Intervention
Chapter 13: No Bones About It!
Chapter 14: The Left Hall
Chapter 15: Prison Break (edited)
Chapter 16: Reunion, Rearmament, Rebellion! (changed slightly)
Chapter 17: Seeing with New Eyes
Chapter 7: About Eggs part 2

Chapter 1: Spark of Hope

Angel Flight was really nervous.

Things were getting worse by the day, food was becoming scarce, and nopony had seen the sun for months. Celestia and Luna had been defeated.... It was BAD out there, okay?

Angel trotted up to the door she was seeking. This particular door led to the arcanum of Princess/Archmage Twilight Sparkle. Inside, she could feel a massive amount of magical energy building up, and it was enough that her wings were starting to glow, as often happened in such situations.

She knocked on the door before opening it.

There, in a circle, were the main defenders of Equestria. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Twilight Sparkle. Each was wearing one of the Elements of Harmony, charging a spell together. Their manes and tails were an array of colours, and were flowing as if by an ethereal wind. (1)

Twilight looked toward the entrance and said, "Oh! Angel Flight! You're just in time."

Angel tilted her head slightly. "In time for what?"

"We're about to cast this spell." Twilight said.

"Ya still haven't explained ta us what this spell's gonna do." Applejack pointed out.

"Hopefully... save us all." Twilight responded cryptically. "Now, for the words." she added, and then intoned,

"When days are dark and skies turn gray,
Heroes will come to save the day.
They'll seek the power of the Zynn.
Unlock powers that lie within.

When the sun is gone and the moon too,
Every nation will pay its dues.
Banish the Darkness, save the day.
And when they come, there'll be hell to pay.

And to you heroes, brave and bold,
You'll return home with treasures old.
And those you save will gratefully bow.
This land of ours needs heroes now!!"

After that, there was a flash of light and six ghostly beings appeared as the six heroes slumped to the floor, having spent their energy entirely.

Twilight barely had the energy to say, "I don't care how. I don't care who. I don't care what time you have to go to. Bring us heroes who can fight. Ensure that they can set... things... right..." with that, she too lost the light in her eyes.

As the beings flew off, Angel ran over to the heroic ponies lying on the floor. "No! No!" she cried in despair. She checked each of them, only to find no pulse each time.

For a moment, she broke down in tears. Surely all was lost now. She eventually pulled herself together and looked to the heavens. "I hope this was worth it... For all our sakes."

The ghostly figures travelled across several dimensions. Each had a link to the world of their origin, but most of them weren't strong enough. But eventually, they hit paydirt.

They found a world where the veil between the two dimensions was thin enough for them to exploit.

Entering that territory, they found where the veil was weakest. A little mostly blue planet, where the majority of the populace knew of Equestria in one way or another. So they took the form of something that most of those could relate to. They placed links to their world in stores across the globe in the form of video games.

Their mission as accomplished as it was going to get, the figures dissipated.

Now... it was only a mater of time.

Author's Note

1: If it's not obvious enough, they're using their Rainbow Power AND the Elements to do this.

Chapter 2: Logging In....

Carlos was excited. Today he'd bought the new MLP game that was becoming a sensation all over the world.

"I can't WAIT to tear into this!" he very nearly squeed with excitement.

Currently he was setting up his computer for the purpose.

Carlos was largely a man of simple tastes. He lived on enough to keep his bills paid, his stomach full and his computer upgraded. So, he naturally had a relatively updated computer.

He was looking over the back of the box the game came in. "Strange. There's no system requirements."

For most, that would be something of a red flag at least, but he just shrugged it off.

When he put the disc into the cd drive, a flash of light occurred.

"Aw jeez! I forsee seizures and lawsuits for this company!" he exclaimed.
When he could see again, he was surprised to find a virtual reality headset.

"Babe? What was that flash about?"

That would be his fiancee, Stellara. "Come and take a look!" he beckoned.

As she walked into the room, a smaller flash produced a second headset.

Glancing at each other briefly, they tentatively lifted the headgear and put them on.

And THEN things started to get interesting....

Their consciousnesses reappeared, as humanoid energy constructs. They looked kind of like silhouettes, but with eyes.

"Where are we?" Stellara asked the obligatory question. All around them was a blue and white background of digits.

A voice said, "Welcome to the gateway!"

Looking up, the two saw a white figure floating slowly toward the ground. It turned out to be...

"Princess Celestia!" they said in unison, bowing to her.

"So gracious! But not quite. I am CelestAI. And this is the gateway to a new adventure for the two of you. But first! You have to create a character! So, what'll it be? Would you rather enter Equestria as a Pony?"

Three images appeared depicting an Earth Pony, a Pegasus and a Unicorn, and then a few subspecies thereof.

"Or would you rather be a part of one of the other races?" Images of a Changeling (two of them, actually. One black and one coloured), a Gryphon, a Dragon, a Hippogriff, a Minotaur, a Yak, and a Deer.

Carlos went first, choosing the Pegasus option, with the Solar sub-option(1). Shortly thereafter, his being was reconstructed, appearing as a black Pegasus(2). Then a new descriptor bar appeared.

Racial Bonuses:
+4 DEX
+2 CON
-2 WIS
+2 Perform
Adrenaline Rush
Pocket Space: All Ponies have an inner Pocket where they can store practically anything, up to 500 pounds in some cases, without feeling any strain.
Inner Light: Solar Pegasi have the ability to use their magic to make scintillating displays of light, directly harm enemies, and more.(3)
85% Immunity to heat damage.
Weather Magic Lv 1 (Can only rank up to 4 without Weather Mage class)
Desperation Move: Solar Flare - when at critical HP (or when angry enough) can use the power of their inner light to blind all enemies within range, also dealing 1d8 damage to each per success. Damage and blindness duration increases with level up.

Giving himself the once over, he said, at length, "Cool." suddenly a bar appeared in front of him that said, 'Name?'
He tapped a hoof to his chin as he thought. "Call me... Chrome Masquerade." Another bar appeared. 'Class?'

"What's the selection?" he queried.

The bar extended into a selection of classes.

Bard
Berserker
Fighter
~~Healer~~
Druid
Illusionist
Knight
Monk
Ranger
Rogue
~~Sorcerer~~
Speedster
~~Warlock~~
Weather Mage (Specialized class)
(More coming!)

"What's with the ones that are struck through?" he asked.

"Those are ones that your race can't select. Other races will have classes that they specialize in and some that they can't pick." CelestAI answered matter-of-factly.

"Oh. I guess i'l choooooose.... Bard. I've always been supportive of my friends in times of trouble, and am known to be something of a Jack of All Trades."

"Wonderful!" CelestAI clapped her hooves. "It's always good to see those types."

Then Stellara, getting the idea, selected a Pegasus also, but this time a Lunar Pegasus.

"Oooh! Interesting choice!" CelestAI said.

With that, she materialized as a light gray Pegasus with membranous, batlike (or dragon-like, if you prefer) wings.

Racial Bonuses:
+4 DEX
+2 CON
-2 CHA
+2 Spot
+2 Stealth
Night Vision
Adrenaline Rush
Pocket Space: All ponies have an inner Pocket where they can store practically anything, up to 500 pounds in some cases, without feeling any strain.
Inner Darkness: Lunar Pegasi can use their magic to manipulate the shadows around them, or create them where they should usually not be, among other applications.
Weather Magic Lv 1 (Can only level up to 3 without Weather Mage class.)
Desperation Move: Eclipse - Can channel their Inner Darkness ability to throw a large area into total darkness for his/her enemies, while giving themselves and their allies a large boost to speed, stealth, sight and attack power.

Seeing that, Stellara said, "I'll choose... Illusionist. I've always been good at that. Call me Silver Masquerade."

Chrome nodded. "It's true. She has."

A new bar came up.

Subclass?

it immediately started showing a selection.

Acrobat
Actor
Aerobat
Artist
Chef
Entertainer
Guard
Martial Artist
Musician
Soldier
Thief

CelestAI glowered at the last entry and then punched it, sending the letters flying. "I wouldn't tolerate that and i'm pretty sure that my counterpart wouldn't either."

Chrome chose Entertainer while Silver chose Martial Artist.

Just then, their Cutie Marks appeared, one was a pair of Ponified drama masks while the other was a pair of nunchaku and a few throwing stars

"Now, of course," CelestAI said, "That'll be what you look like when you're grown up."

"What?" both of them said at once.

"You see, i can't create something from nothing. So..."

The newly minted poinies shrank down, becoming tiny compared to the solar princess's doppelganger.

"Fortunately, there's a space to fit you two in!"

They wre levitated into the portal behind her and the gate closed after.

Warm. He detected warmth, but not much more. He couldn't open his eyes, not that it would do him a lot of good.

If he could have the gift of sight, he'd notice another form beside him, largely asleep.

Suddnly there was a rumbling sound. Muffled voices could juuuuuust barely be heard.

"Psh! C'mn! Y'knd'ths!"

He began moving, rather rapidly for his current form.

Shortly thereafter, he fell out into a much colder environment, which started him crying.

Still having his ears folded over, he could't hear much. But he was joined shortly thereafter by another voice.

"Congratulations, miss Mask. You have a healthy filly and colt."

The mother cuddled the little ponies, cleaning them off as best she could.

Little did she know that in her forelegs slept the next generation of heroes. Hopefully the ones that their world needed.

Author's Note

1: In this case, there was regular, Solar, Lunar and Crystal.
2: Yes, this is my ponysona. And I'm gonna use it!
3: Think of it as if Dazzler was a pony.

Chapter 3: The New Breed

Together, four friends walked out of the gaming store with brand new copies of the new MLP game. The clerk had told them that he had no idea when they got there. They just... were.

This didn't bother the group. Ryan, Alex, Cindy and Roxanne (Roxy for short)(1) were too eager to try it out!

So they went back to their shared home. The prices were steep, but between the four of them, they managed well enough.
Anyway, they went to their respective rooms and plugged the disc into their drives.

Flashes of light revealed brand new VR gear. This, again, would normally be a yellow light to most, but they were curious, so they put the headsets on nearly simultaneously.

Suddenly, they were transported to what looked like the Realm of Ascension from Friendship is Magic's third season. Except they could see occasional appearances of ones and zeroes.

"Welcome to the Gateway!" a regal sounding voice rang out, as a white alicorn landed before them, smiling brightly. "I am CelestAI. And this is the beginning of a new adventure for you all!"

Menus appeared in front of each as they chose their races.

After a brief loading period, there stood a forest green Changeling in the place of Ryan,

Name: Garrett
Racial Bonuses:
+4 CON
+2 INT
-2 CHA
+4 Stealth
Night Vision
Desperation Move: Swarm - when at critical hp (or when angry enough), can call on the power of the Hive to come to their aid. 1d12 (increasing with every 5th level) changelings will teleport in and proceed to take down as many opponents as possible..

A sienna brown Gryphon was in place of Cindy,

Name: Genevive
Racial Bonuses
+2 STR
+2 DEX
+2 CON
-2 INT
Lightning Reflexes
-2 Diplomacy
Weather Magic LV 1
Desperation Move: Twister Sister - When at critical hp (or when angry enough), activation of this move causes Weather Magic skill to boost to level 5 for a few precious minutes, allowing total weather control.

A reddish brown Hippogriff in place of Alex,

Name: Emberglow
Racial Bonuses:
+2 STR
+2 CHA
-2 WIS
Dual forms (Hippogriff and SeaPony)
+2 Diplomacy
-2 Lore
Desperation Move: Tidecaller - When at critical hp (or when angry enough) activation of this move allows control of available water, allowing total control. At the will of the user, random sea creatures may also materialize if sufficient water is present to support them.

And a white Crystal Pony in place of Roxy.

Racial Bonuses:
+2 STR
+4 CON
+2 CHA
-2 INT
Magic Resistance
+2 Diplomacy
Pocket Space: All ponies have an inner Pocket where they can store practically anything, up to 500 pounds in some cases, without feeling any strain.
Desperation Move: Glowing Heart - When at critical hp (or when angry enough), they can activate this move to summon a fraction of the Crystal Heart's power, severely damaging or banishing disharmonious elements in range.
Level Adjustment +1: Crystal Ponies are actually slightly stronger than other races, and so gain levels more slowly.

Classes were selected next. But Ryan's character got a whole different selextion from the others!

Defender
Excavator
Guardian
Harvester
Infiltrator
Magus
Proto-king/queen
Warrior

CelestAI explained, helpfully, "Changelings are different from any of the other races, so they have unique classes that only they can pick."

"So... what's the difference between a Defender and a Guardian?"

CelestAI waved a hoof and two videos appeared. One of them showed a Changeling conjuring a shield to protect their ther allies. The shield was also wielded like a weapon, cutting through enemies. The other video showed a Changeling beating back several enemies much larger than themselves.

"Simply put," she said, "a Defender protects his allies before atacking the enemy. A Guardian beats back invaders and soaks much of the damage."

"One attac, one protec." Ryan summarized. Either way, he chose Warrior just as Alex chose 'Druid' and Cindy chose 'Healer'.

Roxanne couldn't decide, and just chose 'NEW'.

"Interesting choice." CelestAI said. "Choosing not to choose a class yet, eh? There are upsides and downsides to that." she added.

After that, the lot of the began to shrink down in size.

"What's going on?!" Cindy was the one toexclaim.

"Openings have been discovered for you. Good luck!" CelestAI explained, the four of them being lifted into the portal.

CelestAI chuckled. "That never gets old."

In the hive of the "Reformed" Changelings, a new life stirren inside of an egg.

In Griffonstone, an expecting mother gave birth to a Gryphon and a Hippogriff.

In the Crystal Empire, an expecting mother swelled slightly in size as a new presence came into existence beside what was there already.

Only time would tell how this would work out....

Author's Note

1: Guess which game this is referencing.

Chapter 4: The More, The Merrier

Mark and his friends Leo(1), Sam (short for Samantha) and Rick (short for Fredrick) were leaving the store, happy owners of the newest MLP game. When they presented it to the person at the desk, he looked puzzled, but charged then 15 bucks each anyways.

Their errands also done (and groceries needing to be put away) they carried their purchases to their respective homes.

Mark was the first to slot the disk, smiling with eagerness. "This ought to be good!" he said to himself.

A bright flash briefly blinded him, and when it dissipated there was a VR set sitting on his desk. "Free hardware? I'm down!"

Not thinking further, he slipped the headset on and that was the last he saw of the real world.(2)

Mark appeared as a being of white energy, along with the rest of his friends shortly thereafter. "I'm not sure I like this..." Sam said, more than slightly nervous.

Mark was taking a moment to check out his current appearance. (3)

Just then...

"Welcome to the Gateway! I am CelestAI! And this is the beginning of a new adventure for all of you!"

"You don't say." Leo deadpanned.

"But first! You have to create your character! Races first! So, what'll it be?"

In short order, there stood a Dragon in place of Mark. He was a molten gold colour, with platinum spines.

Name: Burning Bright
Racial Bonuses:
+4 STR
+4 CON
+2 CHA
-2 INT
-2 WIS
+2 Intimidate
Heat Immunity 200%: heals in lava and other hot substances
Bashing Damage immunity 100%
Cold Intolerance
Damage Soak: absorbs first 8 Lethal Damage.
Level Adjustment +2: Dragons are significantly more powerful than other characters and gain levels much more slowly as a result.
Desperation Move: Volcanic Power- when at critical hp (or when becoming angry enough), can use Volcanic Power to gain 80% Damage Resistance, STR and CON increase by +4 and becomes unbearable to touch.

Mark flexed his new arms, grinning. "I'm okay with this."

Next Sam appeared as a Yak. She had the race's trademark brown hairy coat and her mane was done up in braids.

Name: Io

"Io?" CelestAI queried.

"Io was priestess of Hera. Chosen by Zeus to be wife. Hera not approve. Was turned into cow to be hidden. That's another story. Always liked that story. Had happy ending."

"Interesting." the white Alicorn said with a smirk.

Racial Bonuses:
+4 STR
+4 CON
-4 INT
-2 WIS
Cold Resistance 99%
Damage Soak: absorbs first 6 points of Bashing Damage and 3 points of Lethal Damage -increases by +2/+1 with every third level up.
SMASH!: Gains Momentum with every object destroyed. Soon becomes extremely hard to hit and harder to hurt.
Desperation Move: Walking Tank- when at critical hp level (or becomes angry enough), can become invincible for 30 seconds. projectiles bounce, anyone who attacks with a melee weapon automatically critically misses and is stunned.

"Me like!" Sam said proudly.

Next up was a jet black Minotaur, appearing in the place of Leo.

Name: Asterion
Racial Bonuses:
+4 STR
+4 DEX
+2 CON
-2 INT
-2 CHA
Iron Grip: Can hold on to the most slippery of objects or pull loose nearly anything that's blocked.
Desperation Move: Bull Rush - When at critical hp (or when angry enough) can summon the power of their race to increase STR +6 and gain +8 movement speed, allowing them to charge at great speed and break most anything in their way.
Level Adjustment +0.5: Minotaurs are slightly more powerful than other races, and gain levels a bit more slowly as a result.

And lastly, Rick came up as a Zebra. He gave himself the once-over briefly. "A pleasing form, I do believe. What bonuses do I receive?"

As if on cue, the menu popped up.

Name: Zachory
Racial Bonuses:
+2 INT
+2 WIS
-2 STR
Green Hoof: Instinctive knowledge of plants and their purposes.
Desperation Move: Wild Growth - when at critical hp (or when angry enough), they can use their magic to cause nature itself to attack their enemies.

"I believe that this will do for me. What next are we to do and see?"

Burning Bright asked his friend, "Question?"

"Hark! A question from Mark."

"... Why a Zebra, of all things."

"They are my favourite creature on Earth, thus appropos for my rebirth."(4)

CelestAI coughed. "Next are your... classes. Yes."

Burning Bright had a different selection from the others.

Arcanist
Berserker
Chronicler
Dragoon
Paladin
Warder

"Hmm..." Burning said contemplatively. "I'm a sucker for Paladins, so i'll go for that. As... odd as it may seem for a Dragon."

Io said shortly, "Berserker. Obvious, right?"

Asterion also had an odd selection.

Brawler
Craftknight(4)
Fighter
Martial Artist
Mechanist
Merchant

"I'm going with Craftknight. It'll be good to be able to do something with these babies." he said, flexng his right arm.

Io commented dryly. "Show off."

Zachory said, "I'll be a Shaman, obviously. How good a one? Well, we'll see."

CelestAI said, "Positions have been found for you."

The lot of them began to shrink in size. A flash occurred just before they were fully regressed and sent through the portal.

CelestAI held up a picture showing the looks on the group's faces. "Oh, by my counterpart. I will never get tired of that."

Over in the Dragon Lands, life stirred in a yellow egg.

In Yakyakistan, life stirred within a yak female, but it was too early for her to notice.

In Minos Taurath, A new child was being prepared to be born

And in Zebrica, something similar was occurring.

Little did anyone know that these four would one day become a force for good, to drive back a greater evil than that world had ever faced.

Author's Note

1: Any references to Resident Evil 4 will be given the Dio treatment.
2: And the last he WOULD see for a loooong time!
3: No pun intended. :twilightsheepish:
4: Yes, reference to Craft Sword Monogatari (Aka Summon Night).

Chapter 5: Sun and Moon

Cloudsdale General Hospital

Drama Mask looked fondly at her two foals. One was a nearly black Pegasus colt. She could see that his tiny wings were shining when the light of Celestia's sun hit them just so.

Looking to her other foreleg, she saw her light gray -nearly white- Pegasus filly. Oddly enough, she also has membranous wings instead of feathered ones. The doctor on hoof nooticed this too, and made to prod the odd appendage.

"HISS" the silvery filly spat, also showing that she sported a full set of teeth. Clearly she didn't approve of her wings being touched.

Drama was shocked, but recomposed herself shortly. "O-kay. I'm bottle feeding that one."

"Probably for the best." the doctor said, nodding.

Shortly thereafter, a nurse brought a bottle filled with a white substance. "Did somepony say 'bottle feeding?'"

"Ah, Split Second. Punctual as usual."

"That's why you pay me, sir." Split said.

Drama took the bottle from the nurse. The bat-winged filly grinned and flailed her legs uncontrollably. After a few seconds of this she stopped and pouted. After the laughter stopped, Drama brought the bottle close enough for it to be taken by mouth, sucking sounds ensuing shortly thereafter.

The other foal awoke, yawning widely. Sure enough, no teeth had developed yet.

Calmly, the colt was brought to an available teat and began sucking eagerly.

The impromptu meal continued in silence until Drama asked, "How much longer do i have to stick around here?"

"Considering how quickly Pegasi heal, i'd say overnight should do. More importantly, what are their names?"

"Let's see..." Drama said, pensively. Indicating the black colt, she said, "I think i'll call this one Chrome." Indicating the still-drinking filly, "And this one will be.... Silver! Yes, that'll do. Chrome Masquerade and Silver Masquerade."

At that moment, Silver finished with her meal. "M-M-M-M-Mo'!" she exclaimed.

The doctor chuckled. "Sounds like she's still hungry."

Split Second walked in the door, carrying another bottle in one wing. "Did somepony say 'still hungry'?" he said, hoofing over the bottle, much to Silver's delight.

Shortly thereafter, the doctor frowned. "However do you do that?"

"It's my special talent, sir. I'm always where i need to be when i need to be." Sure enough, Split's Cutie Mark was a clock with its second hand split in half. "It used to be kind of annoying, but I've learned to live with it. If you want even faster service, you should have hired my brother, Nikko."

Turning in a direction none of the others could see, he said, "That said, be prepared to see me a LOT, folks."

Drama took that moment to watch her children babbling at each other.

~Do you know what happened to us?~

~Apparently we've literally been made foals of. This is your fault, you know.~

~My fault?! How is this my fault? I had no idea this would happen!~

~You bought the game. You got me to come over and take a look.~

~Feathers. You're right. I'm sorry.~

~Ah, momentai. If I were to go through this with anypony, I'm glad it's you. Brother.~

"I wish I could understand what you two are saying." Drama said.

"Regardless," the doctor said, "the three of you need your rest. That'll help speed up the healing."

"Thanks, doc. You heard the stallion, little songs. Time for beddy-byes." she said, directing the last at her offspring.

As if on cue, both of them yawned widely, one showing teeth, one not. "It's like you two are literally night and day." She shrugged and fell asleep as well.

1.5-2 years later

The last couple of years had gone by in a flash. The twins had developed rapidly, managing to control their flight (simultanously, I might add) at the tender age of one and a half. They were exultant at this and had zipped around the room in delight.

They were also starting to pick up words here and there. While their speech was still impeded (one by dint of not having fully developed teeth, the other having to work around their teeth), they were learning quickly and their progress was amazing.

"At this rate," Drama said to herself, "I wouldn't be surprised if they start reading soon!"

6 months-3 years later

Sheeeee was wrong!

The twins were reading together every day now, occasionally stopping to correct their counterpart. Now and then they needed to ask their mother for the definition of some of the words, but they quickly became surprisingly fluent in Eloch(1).

Then they moved on to OTHER languages!

By the time they were five and entered school, they had learned most of Germane, Manedarin, Prench and Neighponese! (2)

'Perhaps,' Drama thought to herself, 'it's time for 'take your kids to work' day.'

As it happens, Drama Mask worked at the Cloudsdale Art Center. Her two foals were perched on her back, looking at all of the new sights.

"This is where I work, you two."

Chrome asked, "What do you do here, ma?"

"I'm about to show you. Patience."

Soon enough, she opened a door and trotted in.

"Good morning, class!" Drama said.

"Good morning, miss Mask!" the reply came from several sources.

"Today i've brought two very special Ponies with me." Drama said. "These are my foals, Chrome and Silver. Treat them with respect; they're smarter than you might think."

A hoof was raised.

"Yes, Dawn Star?"

"Why did you bring them here, ma'am?"

"First, don't call me ma'am, please. It makes me sound old. I'm barely in my 40s."

This elicited laughter from the class.

"And secondly, it just happens to be Bring Your Kids to Work Day! I thought that they could use a change of scenery. Now, Attendance." she pulled out a list. "Amber Rose?"

"Here!"

"Artful Dodger?"

"Present!"

North, East, South and West Winds?"

"We're here too!" four voices rang out in unison.

"Mahoot?"

"What?"

"Mahoot?"

"What?"

"Some things never change."

Attendance went without incident. Every student on the list was accounted for.

"Now, today we're going to start with a special exercise."

All ears swiveled forwart to gain the most that they could from what was to come.

"For this, i'm going to play a song. Your goal is to only have two hooves on the floor at all times, preferably one.(3)"

Reaching into her left saddlebag, she pulled out a stereo and set it on the floor.

There were several 'Wooooow!' reactions from the assembled fillies and colts.

With the press of a button, music started to play.

As the class did their best to follow their instructor's... Well, instructions, Chrome started bobbing his head to the tune. The beat of the music was thrumming through his body. Suddenly, he got up from where he was.

Silver asked, "What are you doing?"

The reply was, "I... don't know!"

Chrome joined the others on the floor and without preamble, he began to dance.

At first he started off slowly, and then as the beat gained momentum, so too did he. Soon enough he was a whirling dervish of masterful choreography. The whole time, he had a huge grin plastered on his muzzle. He didn't care why, he didn't know how, but he was in his element!

As the music began to wind down, Chrome saw his flanks glowing... but it soon faded, leaving him rather put out. He went back to where he was and sat back down, pouting.

Silver put a hoof to one of her brother's withers. "Better luck next time, bro. you were sooo close!"

Chrome smiled at that. He could always count on his sister to cheer him up.

The other students, however, started clapping. Chrome looked up to see the many colts and fillies of the class applauding him, his mother just smiling proudly.

Silver nudged him, breaking the brief trance. "Go on. Take a bow."

Chrome nodded and did just that, bowing to the appreciative audience.

"I told you that they're smarter than they might seem. This is an important lesson, class. Appearances can be deceiving. Try to learn to see things as they really are."

The next exercise for the class was poetry. Each member of the class had prepared a poem beforehoof. Some did well with that, some did not.

Again, Chrome stepped up to the stage and all but intoned,

Imagine you
Tied to a tree
Chained with the sins of an eternity.

Now imagine an arrow
Flying through the air
Seeking your heart, to end your despair.

Now comes a knight
In armour of white
Who now rests in between you and its flight!

You open your eyes
Your bonds break and bend
You can see clearly the knight is quite dead

But do not weep as they lies on the ground
For they are not lost
It is you who are found!

(4)

Again, applause rang out as Chrome bowed. His flanks glowed again... and faded again.
"GRRR!" he growled and stalked back to where his sister was still seated.

A few more things followed, but none of them pulled at Chrome's heart as did the first two.

Shortly thereafter, the students left for their next class.

"Don't worry, Chrome. You'll get it soon enough. Your Cutie Mark will come when it's good and ready."

The trio went to a different classroom and they all assumed seats. A few minutes later, students filed into the room.. Some faces were familiar, some not. All of them were wearing white cloth robes.

"For those who don't know, these are my children. I was allowed to bring them to work today, so here they are. Chrome and Silver Masquerade."

On cue, the twins waved in unison.

"Again I will say, treat them with respect. They're smarter than they might appear. Okay, class, this time we'll start with high kicks. Remember: If you breathe correctly, you'll move correctly."

Soon enough, the class was united in their movements, each swiftly followed by an exclamation of some kind. Slowly but surely, the class built up momentum. This time Silver felt her soul being called to. She got up and took the extra space that was available.

Sure enough, she managed to keep up with and surpass most of the class, her movements having started out slow, like a calm lake. But soon enough she began moving with the force of a raging river, her movements blurring, nearely leaving afterimages!

Chrome watched his sister in fascination. "I think this is her calliing. Martial Arts."

Sure enough, as soon as he said that, a Mark of a pair of nunchaku encircled by throwing stars of various kinds appeared.

Soon, the class sttopped and bowed, Silver trotted back to where she was, pleased with herelf.

"Congrats, sis!" Chrome said. "You got your Cutie Mark!"

"You... aren't jealous?" she asked, apprehensively.

"Of course not! Well... maybe very slightly. I'll find my calling soon. You'll see." was the reply.

Then Silver's eyes wideed. "Wait, I think I know!"

"What? What is it?" Chrome asked.

"Your calling! I think it's the arts in... gen-er-al." For whatever reason, she'd always had trouble with a few words.

"The Arts... in general?" Chrome queried. Just then, a flash revealed a pair of drama masks on either flank.

"My Cutie Mark! I got it too!"

The two of them started doing a litle dance, spinning around in a circular motion.

At length, the class ended, and it was time for lunch and then a nap.

"I'm so proud of you, my little songs." Drama said to her children. "You both deserve a good rest."

She didn't have to tell them twice.

Author's Note

1: That's, uh... Welsh for Horse, if i remember correctly.
2: Horse Pun Combo! :raritywink:
3: This actually used to be an exercise that we used to do in Drama Class.
4: This poem bagged me an Editor's Choice award and a place in the finals of a poetry contest, some time ago.

Chapter 4.5: New DLC

Author's Note

Since Sounds of Silence was a thing, I need to add a whole new race to the roster.

Thanks a ton, Hasbro. If you wanna fight, I'm game. Come at me, bro. :ajbemused: .

Oh, whatever. Frickin' Japanese Unicorns. :facehoof:

On the bright side, Autumn Blaze is my new favourite non-Pony. Sorry Zecora, you've been bumped to second place.

I'm calling this as I see it; please feel free to correct me. Gently, if you please.

Chapter 4.5: New DLC

Two figures suddenly materialized within the blue side-realm. They had just bought a copy of the new MLP game as well, and so were shortly thereafter brought to this plane.

Both were female. Both were confused.

"Whoa. Trippy. What is this place?" the shorter one said.

"I couldn't tell you." the other replied. "But i have a feeling that we're about to find out."

"Welcome to the Gatewaaaaay~!" a serene voice sang out. Literally sang. "Is my singing voice okay? I'm trying a new approach."

The two figures glanced at each other briefly.

"That's some hella advanced AI." the shorter one whispered.

"We've got a live one, here." the other agreed.

Slowly the white alicorn descended to the ""ground"", such as it was. "(*Ahem*) Right. I am CelestAI, and this is the start of a new adventure for both of you! And-" the mare paused, looking up with a glassy eyed expression. That brief momnet passed quickly. "You're in luck! There's new content that's just been added!"

Then a small screen came up.

New Race: Kirin

The shorter figure said, "Whatever that is, it sounds totally rad. I'll take- Whoa!"

Just as she was about to finish what she was saying, she re-materialized as a peach coloured Kirin. She otherwise had all of the other natural features of the Kirin race; the mane, the tail, the horn, the whole bit.

"Cooool!" she said, galloping around briefly. A screen appeared in front ofAher.

Racial Bonuses
+4 WIS
+2 CHA
+4 Spellcraft
Unicorn-like magic: Any reasonably trained Kirin (even some not) can apply their magic much the same as a moderately trained Equestrian unicorn. Their Mana pathways are more concentrated, by dint of the adults having a larger and thicker horn than most Equestrian unicorns.
Desperation Move: Inner Fire - all Kirin have the ability to transform into Niriks when they're sufficiently incensed. This confers unto them pyrokinetic abilities and increased stats. Some have even learned to be able to trigger this transformation at will, making them a force to be reckoned with.
Level Adjustment +1.5: Kirin are significantly stronger than some other races. As a result, they gain experience at a slower rate.

The other figure said "She happens to be my daughter. If at all possible, I'd rather stay with her."

CelestAI considered that. "I... suppose that it's possible that I can arrange that." She nodded and waved a hoof toward the figure.

Seconds later, she materialized (from the hooves up) as a much taller Kirin, with a cinnamon red coat. A suddenly appearing screen explained.

When entering their Matriarchal years, a Kirin will have a growth spurt, causing them to double or even triple in height.

CelestAI said, "Now, as a bit of a price, you're not going to be an Adventurer. However, you will be allowed to participate in this world as a slightly-more-than-normal character. All you need now are names. And in your daughter's case, class and subclass."

"I can live with that. Call me... Spring Growth." the mother said.

"Way rad name, mom." the daughter complimented, earning a smile. "Lemme see... I'll pick Sorceress. And also i'll pick... Alchemist as a subclass. I've always loved science experiments and totally awesome stuff like that. And call me... Peach Potion."

Suddenly she started to shrink down in size. her presence lifted from where it was and imserted itself into the surprised (and also significantly smaller) mother, just as a flash went off. Upon the fading of the flash, CelestAI appeared to be holding a camera.

"That is just not right." Spring said, glowering.

"Do you have any idea how monotonous this job is? This makes it a little less boring, at least. They have me running scripts most of the time!" the Alicorn mare pouted.

Fine, fine. Keep your picture. It's still wrong."

"(Sigh) A space has been found for you. Feel free to step through the portal." CelestAI said with no trace of emotion, much like someone who had been working at McDonalds for too long.

"Don't mind if I do." Spring said, walking through the gate.

CelestAI sighed. "Better get back in position for the next batch."

(Peaks of Peril)

Spring Growth walked out of the portal, only to be met by a cream-coloured Kirin. She said, "Oh! Hey! I didn't expect visitors! Not tha I mind, though. It's so rare that anyone actually comes over here! ESPECIALLY one from a whole 'nother whorled. Whirled. WORLD. Sorry. There are some words I haven't used in a whale. A whele. A while."

'[i"The welcoming committee is friendly. VERY friendly.' Spring thought, stepping back slightly. Suddenly her stomach rumbled and she fell to what qualified for her knees. Fortunately the chatty mare was talkative, not ignorant.

"Oh! Are you okay? Well, you're obviously not okay. That's silly to ask. I mean- why don't i just bring you to our medics and they can fix you up?"

"Good. Idea." Spring rasped as she was wrapped in an aura of magic and carried along.

Shortly thereafter, they arrived at their destination; a village full of Kirins laughing and playing together, just enjoying life in general. Each and every one was either singing, dancing, talking, playing an instrument (one was doing all three with limited success).

"This place was quiet for a while -and by quiet I mean REALLY boring-. But some nice Ponies came along and helped us with our problem. But that's a story that I'm preeeety sure you either already know or don't currently want to hear, or maybe both? Probably both. I'm Autumn Blaze, by the way. I totally forgot to mention that. What's your name, anyway?" the Kirin mare chattered on, stopping after a bit, waiting for an answer.

"Spring Growth. Nice to meet yo-URK!" Spring put a hoof to her mouth and turned green for a moment.

"OH! You probably need me to get you there a bit faster than this. Hang in there, we're getting close. Not that we were all that far away to begin with, though, to be honest. And- I'm rambling, aren't I? I'm sorry. We've been forced to be silent for so long it's like I'm a jar of bottled up words that just had the top opened and- rambling. Right."

At visible difficulty, Aurumn increased her pace. When they arrived at what passed for a clinic there, Spring was scanned with a quick spell. "Oh! I see the problem." the "doctor" said, "For a Kirin of your height and age, you're surprisingly perfectly healthy, but the issue causing you this-"

"Short. Version. Please." Spring interrupted.

"Right. Shortly, put, congratulations in slight advance on your new young. You should be going into labour right aboooout..."

On cue, Spring's stomach started rumbling again.

"Called it. One of you get her to a bed, please?" the doctor started to give orders to the staff on hoof.

About ten minutes later, Spring had given birth to not one, but two Kirin foals. No wonder she was having stomach pains.

That was just the beginning of things for them.

The next morning, Spring Growth was awakened by a knock at the door.

Autumn Blaze came in, chatty as ever. "Can I come in? Are you awake? Oh! Of course you're awake. Silly me. I made you some tea. Do you like tea? I hope you like- here." with that, a cup of warm tea with a few blue flowers in it was hoofed over.

Upon taking a sip, Spring felt the need to say something. But upon opening her mouth, a musical note floated out, causing the mare some confusion. "Huh?"

"Oh, that's made from Foal's Breath flowers. Try doing the scales."

"Do re mi fa so la ti do ti la so fa mi re doooooo." Not a single crack.

"See? It's a really helpful core. care. CURE. It can be used for all sorts of things! You could eat it in a salad, or make a drink with it, -I made the tea myself, actually- or you could just eat 'em for a snack or-"

Autumn's verbosity was cut off by the doctor from earlier. "To be fair, she is getting better with that. Before you wonder, I am Doctor Baseline. You gave us all quite the shock there, last night."

"But other than these two," she indicated her offspring, "I'm still healthy, right?"

"Yes! That you are. If I didn't know better then I'd say that you're almost suspiciously healthy for a mare of your height and age."

"You don't say?" Spring said. Then, before any more could be said, she indicated her daughters. One was a peachy colour, while the other was the colour of strawberries. "May I introduce Peach Potion and... Field Berry. "

Autumn took the moment to shake the little forelegs of the two foals. "It's so nice to meet you guys. Girls. Anyway, some of us are planning to leave this place so we can meet the Prinsissies?- Princesses. Naturally, I'm one. I'm going to head for Ponyville sometime today, so if you'd like to catch a train with me, that would be nice. I'd just love the company, the mystery on the train -I hear that they have those- the drama, the food, which i've heard is really- I started rambling again, didn't I? Would you like to come?"

"Are you kidding? I'm In." Spring said with a wide smile after.

"Apparently i was supposed to be meeting some pink Pony named panky, no, penky? PINKIE! That's it! There was something about a party if I ever came. I love parties, so..."

Spring Growth wasn't sure if that boded well. But oddly, she found that she didn't feel as much animosity (if you could even call it that) toward the mare as before. It was like the tea that she just drank was used to douse a fire within her. She just couldn't bring herself to feel bad toward Autumn. She smiled. "Lead the way."

"You'll come? Really? Really really?" Autumn said, ecstatically. "Oh, this is so exciting! I'll fimally have a REAL friend to talk to again! Not that none of the others here are my friends or anything, They are. It's just that- Sorry. I'm doing it again. I'll go prepare." Autumn finished, then left.

Spring laughed heartily. Chatter or no, this was going to be an interesting trip.

Chapter 6: About Eggs, part 1

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

Chapter 8: Enslaved

(Crystal Empire)

Throughout the city, In little beds, slept little foals (and their parents on somewhat larger beds). All were dreaming innocently, unaware of the disaster that was about to occur.

Tomorrow would be the day of the quinquennial Crystal Fair, celebrating the defeat of the tyrant, Sombra(1). After the festivities, the Crystal Heart would be brought out, and love would flow throughout the land.

This would also be a big day for many of the foals, as they would experience their first crystallization, and would gain their luster.

Unfortunately, for many of those, this was not to be. Among them, little Winter Fields.

Invaders had come to the Empire, intent on taking slaves.

The guard were on duty, patrolling the perimeter of the little kingdom.

But they wouldn't be able to track the enemy... underground.

Shadowed figures burst from the ground, breaking large rifts in the bedrock of the city. They spread throughout the city, capturing who they could. Mostly the tender young, as they learn quickly, live longer, sell high to the right buyer -ESPECIALLY Crystal Ponies-...

And are more easily broken.

By the time the invaders' entrance was discovered, over thirty young had been taken, the invaders leaving just as swiftly as they came.

Thoughout the city on the morrow, parents would cry bitter tears of despair and rage.

Princess Cadence and her husband, Shining Armor, swore that they would find out who or what did this and make them pay dearly.

And they WOULD find them if it was the last thing that they ever did.

(Unknown Caves, Winter's perspective)

"Hey. Wake up." a voice whispered harshly.

"Huh?" I awoke, looking around in panic. "Where am I? Where's my mom and dad?"

The voice's owner's expression softened. "I am sorry to tell you this, but you've been taken as a slave. Some Gem Gnolls. Another Diamond Dog clan rubbed their few braincells together, apparently. Like as not, you -nor any others who are here- will never see your parents again."

I took a moment to cry and the one who was talking to me just let me. At length, they lowered down to just above my level. "I know this isn't right or fair, but that's how it is, around here. I am Osmia, and these things I have learned firstpaw. Yes, I am a Diamond Dog too. No, I am not your enemy. In fact, I want to help you. There's something about you. Enough. Now, we need to get you outfitted. I brought you a uniform."

I looked beside me and could barely make out a small pair of saddlebags, filled with little trinkets.

Suddenly, my right forehoof started to glow. Instinctively, I touched one item after another, following what came naturally.

"Let''s see... This protects against ex-p-lo-sions. This clears bad air. This has a... dur-a-bil-ity spell on it." I continued, stumbling over a couple of long words

"Quite a litle loremaster, aren't you? And at such a young age!" the other voide said appreciatively.

Shortly thereafter, I was decked out in some frankly rather cool looking armour, fit as much for mining as fighting.

The voice said, "Good. You look the proper miner now. Come along. Do as I say, and you might not get whipped today."

"W-Whipped?!" I jumped slighutly in place, quite surprised. "What?!"

"Eventually they'll try to break you, ensure that you'll do what they say. They believe that only true pain will convince their victims of their non-freedom. They even did that to me, with a much harsher whip." The figure showed scarred limbs, angry red scars threaded across them.

"What must I do?"

"You must dig. If you find any gems, a victory for the Gnolls and Dogs, and they like you. Find no gems and you get to take a round in the torture chamber. Sound like fun?"

"No." I admitted, flatly

"Good. Then let's dig."

The days went by in relative silence, the report of pickaxes hitting stone was the only sound. Gems were found. Pain was spared for some. Unfortunately, our good luck couldn't last forever. Eventually my teacher and I ran dry.

Sure enough, when the biggest of the gnolls came to tally up what each slave had earned, we still hadn't found anything. That Gnoll made to take me by the scruff of my neck.

"Leave her alone!" my teacher tried to defend me, only to be cuffed on one side of her head, knocking her aside.

"Was going to have some fun with this one someday. Bad luck for her."

"She isn't even five yet!!!"

"Not my problem." was the reply, as I was carried to my doom.

A much shorter and thinner Gnoll with an offensively thick accent said, "Well, well. I see we 'ave today's losah, don't we? You know what that means, dontcha?"

I nodded shakily.

"Gooood. That's less 'splainin' for me. An' that's always good. Bruiser, you know what to do."

The named Gnoll selected a wicked looking whip (but not NEARLY the worst of the bunch) from the wall. I shrank back in fear for a moment.

That was nothing compared to the pain that came with the first lash. Pain flooded my every thought. Another lash brought me to what amounted to my knees. A third lash. A fourth. A fifth. But I figured that as long as I was taking this cruelty, nopony else was.

Miracle of miracles, I was able to keep my screams as silent ones.

I wondered briefly how many Ponies had been in this chamber. How many had endured this senseless cruelty. How many had DIED before the Gnoll decided to stop?

But then something snapped. A hair-thin tether that had held the sword of Damocles. But now that sword was falling.

And Butch over here was well and in its way!

"You shouldn't have done that."

Desperation Move learned

Red hues started to dominate my vision. My coat and the hide underneath hardened to an almost diamond-like hardness. It still had no luster, and was black as the rocks i'd been digging through this whole time... but that hardly mattered to me. I ran toward the big Gnoll with fire in my eyes, letting out the loudest roar that I could before leaping at the torturer and proceeding to use my increased weight to beat him senseless.

Black Wrath of Vengeance

After that, I rounded on the one who i presumed was the ringmaster behind this whole operation. I advanced slowly, breathing harshly. I had no control of my actions. "YOU!" some dark influence inside me said, "YOU are the one at fault for this, are you not? How many have endured this treatment?"

He drew something from a pocket and fired it at me. But since I was still in rage mode, this did little to dissuade me from my course.

"How many have died in here?"

Bang!

Nothing.

"How long has this been going on?"

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Nothing.

"How DARE you!?" whatever was controlling me roared, causing everything that wan't essentially nailed down to sway or rattle.

Many more Gnolls rushed through the other door, attempting to stop me. I am proud to say that whatever was controlling me was able to pummel seven of them into submission before my disadvantages(2) took their toll and I fell unconscious.

"Lock 'er up! Starve 'er for th'next week! Maybe tha'll teach her better'n to defy me!"

As the troops still standing did just that, the thin Gnoll put his paws over his head.

"Wha'n Ta'arus 'ave I gotten meself inta?!" he thought aloud.

The sword still loomed over his head. He knew that it would soon fall. It was only a matter of time.

Author's Note

Think of this as the OC Tale for Winter Fields.
1: They had no way of knowing that Sombra's presence was a double-edged sword. Yes, he was cruel and vicious, but his presence discouraged other threats from entering his territory. Without the mad Unicorn, they were no longer held at bay.
2: Being really young, having only accessed this power for the first time and superior numbers on their part.

Chapter 9: A Stone Without Its Sparkle

Unknown Mineshaft; Brig)
(Winter Fields' POV)

I was waking up very slowly. Whatever had happened back there had exhausted my, utterly. I could hear voices arguing. One was very obviously the leader that whatever was controlling me had told off

"What the hell happened?!"

While the other voice was new to me.

"What makes you think I would know?"

"You've had more contact with Crystal Ponies than the rest of us combined! You HAVE to know something about... this!"

"Very well. I am not totally ignorant of this.I will tell you what I know. But you aren't going to like it. Your mistake was taking this batch of Crystal Ponies before they had been exposed to their Crystal Heart. That infuses them with Love energy for the first time. Following so far?"

"Yeah."

"Then i'll continue. This one is a gem without its sparkle. Not having been exposed to Love makes them more susceptible to Hatred, or -in some cases- its more fierce counterpart: Wrath. Hence what you experienced. In this case, this is called Black Wrath of Vengeance."

"So... do I just kill them and start over?"

"No! You must not! Normally, sure, but Crystal Ponies are tightly knit. Even among non-family. Killing this one, let alone the rest, would trigger rebellion for certain!"

"I can't just give them back! Our workforce is too low as it is!"

"Then I fear we are at an impasse, general. I would not be you for all the world. You have taken your doom in by your very own front door. But i guarantee that they will not depart that way. Not without bloodshed."

I could hear a snap and felt a flare of magic. The owner of the second voice was gone.

By this time I was mostly awake. "Ah, yer awake. Listen, you. Whatever dat was, I am willin' to bet that you ain't got no control of it. You may 'ave slain a few of my warriors, but I doubt dat you can call on dat again, and our numbers are many."

For a "five-year-old", I was feeling awfully snarky. I did have several years of experiences from another life, you know. "And I'm betting that if you were so strong, so tough, so numerous, you wouldn't need to enslave others to get their digits dirty for you." I said with the deepest deadpan I could muster.

He recoiled visibly. I had struck a nerve.

With a growl, he said, "Jus' for dat..." he tossed an empty plate at me. "Dat will be breakfast, lunch an' dinner for da res' of da week. I'll be by in a while to accept yer surrender. Starve well!" he said, gloating as he left.

Looking around, i pawed at the rock wall behind me, rewarding me with a single gem.

This I smirked at and bit into, chewing on it lazily. Little did he know that we Crystal Ponies also had extremly hardy systems.

All I could do now was wait. And think...

(One week later)

The Gnoll general loped up to my cell. I was currently lying down on the hard floor, asleep.

Though I obviously couldn't hear him, that didn't stop him from trying to speak at me. "So it's been a full week since you've eaten. An' ya still look jus' fine." he grumbled.

I was silent.

"I only wish I could kill ya, but dat would do more harm than anythin' else. But like any crystal, you'll crack, given 'nough time."

With that, he left.

(Another week hence)

I was absolutely hungry. Gems will sustain you only so much. I was taking in enough nutrients that I didn't atrophy, but I had to dig harder and farther each night, after the aloof doggos went to sleep. I had learned how to control the hardness of my hooves, so that I could dig quickly, pulverizing rock beneath them.

[Skill learned: Diamond Toughness; Level 1]

Soon enough, I had a small mine of my own, leading in a few different directions to confuse any who might come after me. I always made sure to hide the hole I was digging with my bed, so nobody was the wiser, and the light -or lack thereof- in the cave helped with that immensely.

Eventually, I was able to reach what looked like the armory for the place. As a filly, i probably wouldn't be able to carry much, but with my abilities, i should be able to arm my friends... once I found them, which eventually I did, widening the tunnel enough for most of them to slip through, but any Gnoll or Diamond Dog would get stuck.

Soon enough, i broke out to where my fellows were, indicating for them to follow, which they did.

Unfortunately, Osmia and the other enslaved females couldn't fit.

Osmia smiled slightly. "Don't worry about me. I'll gather the others and we'll find our own way out." she said, shooing the group to follow me.

Leading them to the prevously found armory, all of them equipped some weapons and armour. There were thirty of us against however many Diamond Dogs and Gnolls. There was a handful of us, and probably a good fistful of them. Add to that, we were untrained. We were only little, after all. I had the most experience, being that I was from anothr world. I could see that they were afraid, I was afraid too.

"I can see fear in your eyes. I know. I'm afraid too. But if we don't take this chance, there won't BE another one! As young as we are, we've grown stronger over the weeks, haven't we?"

There were nods, for the most part.

"Then let's do this! For our home, our parents, our lives! Don't you want to get back home? Don't you want to see your family again? Don't you want to teach these.... beasts a thing or two?"

There were more nods, and a few smiles, but more so looks of grim determination.

"We may be stones with no sparkle, but this day, let's show that we can shine too!"

This time there were cheers all around.

"LET'S GO!!!" I shouted, and through the armory door they spilled as a mob, going the way they came in. I had just taken a bunch of scared children and turned them into a straight-up mob!

[Skill Learned: Stirring Speech]

Three of my friends walked up beside me. One was a Yak named Io. One a Hippogriff named Emberglow and one a Gryphon named Genevive. They were captured a year or so before me, so they were even more gung-ho about this than I was. I couldn't help but feel that I knew them from somewhere, though... Maybe i hit my head at some point.

Io was decked out in Iron Scale armour, protecting her from head to hoof, practically. Genevive and Emberglow were both wearing Studded Leather (which i could tell had an enchantment of some kind), letting them move freely and still take a hit or two. I was wearing Steel Chainmail, which offered about as much protection as either. We were also wearing a different weapons. Io stuck with her iron boots. Genevive picked up a pair of wakizashis. Emberglow was holding a quarterstaff (more like a 1/6th staff) of some kind of very hard wood. Ironwood, or Lignum Vitae or something. Maybe harder!

I made do with a pair of retractable claws, but also had a hammer (more like a Greathammer in my hooves) on standby in my Pocket.

By this time, the alarm was blaring, calling the canid races to action. Mostly, they were quickly cut down by the mob that advanced, with more than a few bruises, but hardly hesitating as they attacked with mind-blowing ferocity. You wouldn't think that these kids would be so vicious. But, as they say, kids can be cruel. Naturally, the four of us got our hits in as well.

Eventually, we ran into a problem.

"Well, well, well. If it isn't the little demon leading a rebellion."

There was the general, with five of each race by his side.

"Now I can DEFINITELY kill you all and just call it a day. I'll start fresh, with new slaves. And we'll teach them to RESPECT their betters!"

I had had quite enough of his prattle. I was getting more angry by the second. Suddenly, I had That Feeling again. I stepped before the rest. "Everyone, back up. This is my fight."

Most complied, but my friends were more hesitant.

"I can't hold myself back much longer. Fall back or I might target you too, by accident. I don't want that."

I let off a little bit of black energy, and my friends fell back, understanding.

"Gonna turn into a devil again? I don't think so! Attack!"

"You were dead from the moment you brought us in here." 'I' threatened. "You just didn't know it yet."

Rage: 100%

With a deafening roar, my form blackened and I took on that diamond hardness again.

"Round 2, cupcake." It said coldly.

I threw myself at one Gnoll, extending my concealed claws. Upon hitting him, i put all the force I possibly could into the strike. Not only did I sever tissue, but bone was crushed as well.

When he flopped to the ground, I extracted my claws from the body with a sickening sound. The thing that had me licked the blood from one claw.

'Blech!' i would have spat if I was in control. Instead, my body said "Who's next?" before pouncing on the next one.

Io said, "That not our friend in control. That be monster!"

Genevive was inclined to agree. "I haven't seen this much rage from any Gryphon, let alone a Pony!"

"I hope this works out." Emberglow said. "I don't know how much she'll be able to rein it in once she's killed them all."

"I think she'll be fine." Genevive replied.

"It's not her I'm worried about..."

(Winter Fields' POV again)

Soon enough, each of the defenders had been dispatched. Some were still alive, others not. Now only the general remained. he was trying to crawl away from me.

"So. How does it feel to be all alone? How does it feel to be so close to your doom? How does it feel to know that this is your final moment? That this is where your path of sin has led?"

I slashed his shoulder. "That was for enslaving some of your own kind." His other shoulder. "That's for spilling the blood of so many innocents." one slash was followed by another, my referencing his sins that It somehow knew about. "Cheat! Coward! Oathbreaker! Kinslayer! Kidnapper! Poacher! Slaver! Trafficker! Murderer! Warmonger! Monster! Villain! DEMON!"

I was about to slash him one more time, but several presences stopped Me.

"Winter! Enough! He's had enough!"

"No! Vengeance must be fulfilled!"

"He won't get what's coming to him if you kill him outright! Now CALM DOWN!"

It took a moment, but my Rage dropped to zero and I passed out.

"I say we get them home." Io suggested.

"Second best idea I've heard all day." Genevive said, balancing me on her back.

Together, many children stepped out into the biting cold. Fortunately, they were protected somewhat by the armours that they had picked up.

Slowly but surely, they marched on. There was no light to go by, no moon, no stars. Just black clouds.

Just when they were about to lose hope, a flash occurred. A voice rang out,

"There! I found them! I found them!"

Soon enough, a regiment of soldiers was escorting the group of youngsters back to the Crystal Empire.

Once the parents heard that their children were safe, they all gathered just outside the shield. If their children could handle a little cold, so could they.

Upon reuniting with their parents, there was much rejoicing.

Shining Armor walked up to the one who felt like they were responsible for the end of the alliance of canines. Namely, Winter and her friends.

"I trust he suffered?" He asked dryly.

"Bit much." Io said.

"Not nearly enough." Genevive countered.

Suddenly, there was a blast of energy from the center of the castle. The Crystal foals instinctively ran toward the energy, takind it full force when they leaped on one side of it, and landed on the other side in crystallized forms.

Winter for her part, felt the dark presence within her fade away, hopefully not to return. She sighed. Her work was done for now. But for how long?

Author's Note

Sorry for glossing over the backstorieds of some of the characters. I only came up with origins for a few of my OCs and had to make up new ones on the fly. Which, as you might imagine... isn't as easy as it might seem to translate into an actual story.

Chapter 10: Back to the Hive

Garett was being shown around the hive still. As much as he'd seen, there was always more to see, more to learn. The next location that they came to was the equivalent of a classroom.

It was rather spartan in appearance. There were a few chairs, a long table, a desk, a large blackboard and not much more than that. No pictures, no windows, not even a potted plant.

At the other side of the desk was one clearly adult Changeling. He had blazing green eyes, which shone like pyrite while having the hue of jade.

His guide said, "That's our teacher, Quick Shift -Mister Shift, to you-. He's taught dozens -if not hundreds- to change form."

"Will the first student come up, please?" Quick said, beckoning.

One Changeling stepped up. With a bit of concentration, there was a flash of green and where the Changeling was, a small cat sat.

There was a disembodied chorus of "Awww!"s. Quick merely rolled his eyes. Not easy for a Changeling to do, but he managed it. "Very good. Next!"

As another Changeling stepped up, Garett concentrated as well. "Let's see if I have this straight..." he thought, suddenly feeling a muscle that felt strange. Curious, he flexed it, thinking of Tourmaline...

"You probably won't manage that for a while, at least, but this is good for you to-" Tourmaline looked over, but saw a mirror image -a point for point reflection- of himself where the youngster he was guiding just was.

"Most impressive!" Clearly 'Mr. Shift' had been paying attention. "You there. Come over here." he beckoned encouragingly.

Garett was nervous, naturally, but he walked into the classroom, still in his altered form.

"You can revert now. It's alright."

Garett relaxed the muscle and felt himself return to his previous shape, to the astounded gasps of the class.

"Most impressive! Barely in your second form and you've already got the hang of it!"

One student raised a hoof.

"Yes, Clover?" Quick Shift queried.

"How does a second stage Changeling have that much energy? Taking the form of a fourth stage would have to take a lot of energy to maintain."

Quick looked over to Garett, as if expecting an explanation.

Garett asnwered, stammering nervously, "I... j-just felt for s-something that seemed r-right at the t-time. I was j-j-ust fed that knowledge because I n-n-n-needed it then. Once it w-w-worked, I j-just k-k-kept that f-f-f-f-flexed. As long as I only n-needed to k-keep that f-f-form and not do much else with it, i w-wouldn't need much more energy than that, right?"

Quick nodded sagely. "Quite right. The Hive Mind provides what you need to know. Don't be afraid to call on it if you need to. Furthermore, If you were fighting in that form or something similar, maybe, but as you only needed to maintain the shape, more energy would not be needed. As long as you didn't take a hit, you could maintain that form as long as your carbuncle was 'flexed', as you say."

Another hoof was raised, but Quick Shift raised his to deflect the obvious question. "Miss Tourmaline? Would you care to aid me with a spell?"

Tourmaline shifted nervously. "You very well know that my spellcraft has never been the best."

"Then I'll craft the spell. Just focus your energy. I'll do the rest."

The two crossed their horns and a wave of magic spread through the room. Suddenly, everyone could see inside of the others.

"This, young 'lings, is your Itineris System. Your Carbuncle is that green spot, right near your heart. Point when you find it."

After a half minute or so, every Changeling had a transparent hoof pointing toward their Carbuncle.

"Very good. That's like your heart, but for your magic. Every living thing in this world has one. And you'll notice that little Garett here has an especially bright one."

Garett could feel the jealousy of the other young Changelings. He could feel their animosity toward him.

Quick Shift rapped the desk. "HEY! None of that! Shame on you!" she exclaimed, quelling the impending fight. "You all should know better! Set a good example for younger Changelings."

"But he's more powerful than we are!" one student interrupted.

"SO. WHAT? Haven't I told you enough that your power doesn't matter! It's how well you use it and WHY!" Quick Shift rebuked, stemming any further argument. "If you don't like having less power than he, practice! Power doesn't make you smart. Power doesn't make you skilled. Power doesn't get you friends. Think on these words the lot of you, and consider what you've done wrong. Dismissed!"

Garett's ears drooped. "I'm sorry. I ruined the whole bit."

Quick nudged the melancholy youngling. "Cheer up, lad. It's not so bad. Some 'lings are just not comfortable with being one-upped. But, there's always a bigger fish...." he said, pausing to muse a bit at the end.

"Though..." he said at length, "How do you know all these things?"

Garett answered readily. "My soul. It's not from this world. I still have a lot of my past life's memories."

Quick said, "A-HA! Trust me, boy, if you can get this far without even having a proper 'ling's soul at the time, you're going to go far. Why, that knowledge of yours might come to be useful someday."

Tourmaline spoke up. "We really should be moving on..."

Quick waved one leg, dismissing them. "Yes, yes. Go ahead. But i'll expect to see this lad more often. MUCH more often."

Garett couldn't help but feel uneasy at that.

Tourmaline rubbed Garett's back a bit. "Don't worr. I'll make sure that nothing happens to ya. Momentai, as they say."

Garett thought, 'I'm reassured, but only s\lightly'

The next stop on the tour was a tropical garden of sorts. "This is our Garden. Not only does it hold food for guests of other species, but it's also a place of calm reflection and meditation." Tourmaline brought her hooves together in a very meditative posture.

Garett assumed a simlar stance and focused on... not focusing Sure enough, he could hear the sounds of the wind blowing through the trees, the gentle lapping of water and the presences of the 20- or so Changelings milling about therein. But he still got that gnawing feeling that something integral in the hive was missing.

Tourmaline noticed this. "You feel it, huh?"

"Huh?"

"The absence of our long-time leader, Chrysalis. Though mainly in charge of the Sapphire hive, she subjugated the rest of us too. She brooked no opposition. She was power mad. A dictator. A loose cannon. Those who didn't agree with her found their carapaces scorched." she shuddered briefly before continuing. "The TL:DR of it is that she was defeated, at length, deposed and... we excommunicated her from the Hive Mind. Presumably, she's all alone out there. We still feel the gaping hole that she left behind. Maybe it will 'heal', in time. We'll see." Tourmaline hesitated before saying, "Let's... let's get a move on. There's still much to do."

The tour continued.

Author's Note

1: Obviously adapted from the three codes of Craftknighthood.

Chapter 11: Cross Country with Autumn Blaze

There will be no skiing Ponies.

So it was that we were coming down from the Peaks of Only-Slight-Peril. As we four were picking our way down, Autumn was, naturally, running her mouth off -with occasional injections from me-, until inevitably remembering that she was doing so and silence reigned for the next five minutes or so.

Repeat as necessary.

Needless to say, if she wasn't so amusing it would not have been as pleasant as it was. Thankfully, she was quite hilarious, at times! She even amused the twins with her antics. She felt like the little sister that I never had in my past life.

Eventually we got to the train station, only to find that there was a single stallion there, who looked like he used to be a pirate or something similar. He had only a few teeth, and was shuddering slightly, constantly. He was wearing an uncomfortable expression, pretty much set to 'Sleep Is For the Weak'. Not a pretty sight.

Autumn and I glanced at each other and smiled. We had the same idea at the same time. Letting our expressions drop to deadpan, like the other Kirin used to constantly have, we stepped up.

"Well, well. If it ain't a couple'o Kirins wannin' ta leave the Las' Stop! The Fahnal Dess'nation! The End of the Line!" he cackled madly, but looked slightly annoyed when we looked just as unamused, blinking slowly.

"Still the sahlent types, huh?" he said with some disappointment.

We nodded in unison. My foals just waved, as if they were in on the plan too.

"I suppose ye'll be wannin'- hol' on, 'ere." he paused long enough to smack himself in the jaw, causing a full set of teeth to reappear in his mouth.

It was REALLY hard keeping a straight face for that. Autumn just went for raising an eyebrow.

He flexed his jaw a couple of times before speaking again. "Sorry about that. It's part of the motif. Name's False Teeth. A bit on the snout, sure enough, but that's one of my quirks."(1)

Autumn pointed a hoof at the schedule. Upon seeing the stallion's puzzled expression, I rolled my eyes and with a spark of my horn, 'Ponyville' was highlighted. I placed eight coins on the counter.

"OH! I see." he said. "Let me just put a call in."

He picked up a hitherto unseen phone and dialed a number. "Hello? Yeah. Yeah. How did you guess? Whatever. Just send a train over, ASAP." He hung up, mumbling something about Call Display.(2) At length, he sighed. "There's one on the way." He pushed a button under his counter and the entire booth started to rumble.

"You might want to step back." he suggested, something we had no trouble with doing.

At length, the booth filled out into an entire small station, complete with a rail circle to get an incoming train to turn around.

That, i couldn't hold a deadpan at. My jaw dropped, and both of Autumn's eyebrows lifted. She was really good at this! I was impressed.

"Impressive, eh? Technology at work!" he chuckled at finally breaking our straight faces.

Within about thirty minutes, a train came along and went around the impromptu traffic circle before coming to a stop.

"ALL ABOOOOOARD!" a loud voice echoed from insid the train. Nice set of pipes on that one.

False Teeth gave us two bits back. "Foals ride free on this line. Just keep 'em safe."

We nodded and stepped aboard the train.

"Thanks!" we called back in unison as the train started pulling away, just as he was taking a drink of water.

It was SO satisfying seeing him splutter like that! We laughed hard for a good minute or so. Autumn was actually on the floor clutching her sides.

After that moment of mirth, we sat down with smiles all around.

I decided to break the silence before she did. "So, Autumn, tell me about this 'Ponyville' place that we're going to."

"Well, naturally, I've never been there myself, but I did hear a little about it from Applejack. Apparently there's quite a bit to be had. There are many shops, an arcade, a bowling alley -I've never personally gone to any of those, but whatever- florists, street vendors, a special event every other week.... It sounds just amazing!" she finished, clasping her hooves together over her chest.

"I was also going to ask..." i followed up with another question, "What was that stuff that you gave to the twins and me?"

"Oh, that? It was an extract of Foal's Breath flowers. A tea of sorts. Not only does it give you a really clear voice, it also takes away any nasty effects that you might be under if, say, you have bronchitis or just smoke a lot. It also allows a Kirin better control of their Anger."

"What do you mean by 'Anger'?" I queried. I could practically hear the implied capital A

Autumn looked around before casting a spell that made my horn tingle. I could tell that the spell fire-proofed the area. When all was done, she nodded at her hand- hoofy-work? Whatever.

She started to explain again, "When a Kirin becomes really angry..." she burst into blue flame, becoming a sort of Negative version of herself. Her voice had this strange echo to it when she spoke again. "They become a Nirik, supposedly a creature of 'fire and vengeance'." she said, but then reverted to her regular form. "They have the fire part right, anyway. The Foal's Breath tea allows one's emotions better control, instead of just locking them up like the Stream of Silence."

That made sense, I suppose.

"Also, having control of my Flame, I can do THIS!" she exclaimed, suddenly juggling six or seven small blue balls of flame, much to the amusement of my children, who hoof-clapped at her antics..

"Thank you! Thank you!" she said, bowing.

Suddenly, upon her flank, appeared a trio of baloons, one white with an A, one red with a B, and one green with a C.

"OOH! a Cutie Mark! I wasn't sure if we get those, but we are related very closely to those Equestrian ponies. I suppose that we've just crossed into Equestria's borders. It has more such magic, so..."(3)

Then on my flank appeared a baby bottle and a small sword. In that instant, I realized that my calling was to raise Heroes. That while I wasn't an Adventurer as such, I still had a lot of the advantages thereof. I could tell that for some reason Autumn had that as well.

"That." she finished, with a nod.

She cancelled the spell and my horn stopped tingling.

There was relative silence for a time, before Autumn asked, "So, what about your world? Tell me some about it?"

My ears drooped at that. "It's not a nice place." I began, "There's terrible stuff going on all over the place. Pollution, famine in some places, disease in others, rampant crime in others..." I trailed off, not wanting to continue.

"How awful!" Autumn said, showing sympathy, if not empathy. This made me smile.

"My family is here, now." I said. "My priorities are here." I finished, nuzzling my offspring.

She grinned widely at that. "I'm glad to hear that." she said shortly.

"You surprisingly never told me your actual story." I pointed out.

"It's a long one." she said, drooping slightly.

"Rather not talk about that, I suppose?"

"Nah. I'd rather SIIIIIIING~!" she said, breaking into song.(4)

Oh boy.

Having heard a version of what she presumable exposed Applejack to, she stopped with a bowed head. It wsas a kind of somber moment.

The rest of the train ride was mostly in silence. On the way, I fed my foals and took a nap.

"PONYVILLE STATION! COMIN' UP!"

Awakening with a start, we got up from our seats, me with my children on my back. Together we set our faces to the typical deadpan, ready for another prank.

Several Ponies came and went by. The first Pony that attemptd to talk to us was a pink mare with a bubblegum coloured mane. She had a Cutie Mark much like Autumn's. She proceeded to speak VERY quickly

"HI! I'mPinkiePie! Areyounew? YouMUSTbenew! IcantellbecauseIknoweveryponyinPonyvilleandI'veneverseenyoubefore! AndalsobecauseIgotakneetwithandanachyshoulder! Thatmeansthatsomeponynewiscominiiiing~! Butthat'sbesidethepoint! Doyoulikeparties? Doyoulikecake?"

Autumn and I shared a glance. Though little emotion showed, her look screamed, 'And they say I talk a lot'.

"Thesilenttypesaren'tcha?" she continued.

We nodded silently, much to the pink mare's disappointment.

A new voice said, "Aw, come off it, Autumn. We know ya kin talk." The voice belonged to an orange mare with three apples on her flank. I presumed that this was Applejack.

We both chuckled. "Sorry AJ. Couldn't resist." Autumn said.

Applejack smiled "So anyways, this here's Pinkie. The mare Ah told ya 'bout. She's the party planner fer the whole town. An' even beyond, sometimes." Pinkie nodded at this, pronking in place. Suddenly, she gasped and dashed back over to us. Applejack rolled her eyes and said, "Here we go..."

"OhmyCelestia! YougotCutieMarks! Doyouknowwhatthis-!"

Scraping it on my coat first, I placed one hoof on the loquacious mare's mouth, stopping her. "Deep breaths. THEN continue." I could see Applejack chuckling behind a hoof.

Taking a few deep breaths, she eventually nodded. When I removed my hoof, she said, "A PARTY!!!" throwing a bunch of confetti into the air. Autumn grinned.

"Can I help?" she queried.

"Sure!" came the answer, and they dashed off together. This party, whatever followed, was going to be interesting.

Author's Note

1: Until such time as this character is named, i'm going to call him that.
2: MUMBLER!
3: I'm not retracting this unless Canon addresses it.
4: My favourite song of Season 8. :raritywink:

Chapter 12: DM Intervention

Deep in a dungeon, several young creatures awoke. Altogether, there were two Pegasi, one Crystal/Earth Pony, one Yak, one Dragon, one Minotaur, one Changeling, one Zebra, two Kirins, one Gryphon and one Hippogriff.

The twin Pegasi awoke first, with the most cursory of queries.

"Ugh... Where am I?"

Trite, maybe, but apropos. Nobody has any idea where they are. What they DO know is that it's dark and uncomfortable. The floor is made of stone, so good luck digging out.

As the rest of the group awoke, they noticed a box with a '?' floating nearby.

Trotting over to it, the black Pegasus tapped the holographic object and none other than CelestAI appeared.

Looking around quickly, she said, "Greetings, my little adventurers." she began, "I can't stay long, but I will help however I can. This is your first quest, and it's a bit of a doozy. Your goal in this adventure is to destroy the Orb of Darkness somewhere in this dungeon and escape with your lives intact. Like it or not, you are a team now and will have to act as a team if you all want to survive the trip. Here, you'll need your strength."

Before them appeared dishes of food, each appropriate for their species. The only one who declined the food was the Changeling. He said, "No thanks. A few hugs will be just fine for me."

One group-hug later, the others dug in, after which the plates disappeared.

"Now, you'll need to reach the top floor and- guard! Make like you're still asleep!"

Quickly, the party hit the deck, closing their eyes and breathing more slowly. CelestAI made herself scarce.

A skeleton passed by their door. Upon seeing the "still unconscious" group, it moved on.

CelestAI reappeared as everyone rose. "That was too close. Here." she said, summoning an array of bracelets, differently designed. "Put these on and twist them. You'll be aged up to that of a proper adventurer until you choose to turn it off. With them, you may also banish Darkness. I'm sorry, you'll have to take care of the rest. I'm out of time here." As a last act, she unlocked the barred door. "Good luck. The world lies in your collective digits."

With that, she disappeared.

The Yak said, "Might as well introduce selves. My name Io. Mighty Berserker. Pleasure to meet."

The Pegasi said, "Chrome and Silver Masquerade, at your service. Bard and Martial Artist."

The dragon said, "Burning Bright. Bright, for short. I'm a Draconic Paladin."

The Changeling said, "Garett. I'm a Guardian."

"I'm Genevive, my sister is Emberglow." stated the Gryphon, her sister waving. "I'm a Healer, she's a Druid."

"Asterion" the Minotaur said. "Craftknight." he added tersely.

"Winter Fields." the penned mare said. "I... chose 'New'. I don't have a class."

The two Kirin weren't old enough to talk, but upon using two of the bracelets they were given, they were suddenly middle-aged Kirin. The first spoke. "I'm Peach Potion. My sister is Field Berry. As our names might suggest, I'm an Alchemist and my sister is a Druid."

"Zachory is my name. Call it a hunch, but I get the feeling that this has stopped being just a game. Spirit Shaman is my class, though as an Alchemist, I can pass. For that, my father is to blame."

Peach Potion tilted her head. 'Was that a limmerick? A bit of a stretch in that second line, but not bad.'

That would have to be addressed later. As they all slid on their bracelets, they were changed into fully equipped warriors, worthy of their titles.

Io was wearing Full Plate, though she moved with surprising ease in it.

Burning Bright wore reinforced chainmail of a remarkable sheen. Around his neck was a band that they could all tell was keeping any dirt or grime from his person.

Chrome and Silver were wearing chainmail largely of steel.

Asterion was in reinforced leather all over. Anyone could tell that it was high quality. But he said that as soon as he found a forge, he was going to replace it.

Garett was equipped with chitinous half plate armour, though there were glowing runes on it, presumably to make it less heavy.

The avian twins were also in chainmail, with differences befitting their classes. One was of a verdant green colour, the other seemed to slowly shift in colour.

Winter was in half-plate, though of a somewhat lower quality. But looks could be deceiving. Upon closer examination, this set was made for freedom of movement primarily and defense second.

Zachory was in a unique outfit, composed of what looked like vines and what looked like hemp. It was light, but tough. The two Kirin were in similar garb, though of a different material.

Genevive made two fists and clashed them. "Let's do this." she said with a confident smirk.

Io was already on it and rammed the metal door to their cell, causing the door to hit the one opposite theirs.

"Way to be subtle, Io. Our benefactor unlocked that already." Garett hissed.

"Me sorrry. Stealth not strong suit among Yaks."

Genevive stated in a deadpan tone, "Yeah. We noticed."

The party continued along the strangely wide hallway (1). Somewhere along, the first chamber was encountered. Upon opening it, there was a room full of weapons revealed. The party was about to go in, but Zachory stopped them. "This seems too convenient, to me. Step back now, and let me see."

And the party stepped way back, just in case.

He chipped off part of a nearby wall and tossed it into the room. Sure enough, a large blade shot along the length of the room.

"Trap disabled." Zachory said. "Now safe entry is enabled."

The party proceeded into the room, looking very carefully for other traps.

The weapons on the racks looked to be in poor condition. Alas, there wasn't much they could do about them at present.

At that moment, Chrome poked one of the bricks in the wall and a new entrance opened up, a strange chime playing.

The party looked around for the source of the noise, but found nothing. "Huh." they said in unison.

Walking into the new room -which proved to have no traps- there they found a different weapons rack with tools of MUCH better quality! The party immediately took their pick of the weapons. A smithing hammer and a pair of axes for Asterion (Who said that it still felt wrong using someone else's tools). Katars for Genevive. A folding staff tor Zachory. Twin greatswords for Burning Bright -Being a dragon, he was strong enough to swing them around with ease, as if they were longswords-. The Pegasus twins took a set of wingblades each, as well as some sharp hoofblades. Emberglow took what looked like a set of metal talons, which she slipped over her talons, wiggling her digits experimentally.

Io took nothing. Her excuse? "My whole body is weapon. No worry about me."

Soon enough, the party was ready to continue, now stronger than ever. The inhabitants would not know what hit them.

Author's Note

And here's where the party comes together, because I'm tired of beating around the bush and it's about time for their first quest! Sorry to end on a cliffhanger, but i was over time anyway.

1: About 18' by 20'. More in some spots. MUCH wider than necessary.

Chapter 13: No Bones About It!

Now well armed, the party resumed their search, far more confident of their success.

Continuing their trek down the LONG corridor (Genevive openly complained about the long trek), they encountered the next door. In this one there were sets of armour on a similar rack to the weapons. Off to the side was a disturbing number of bleached bones.

Burning Bright was the first to be aware of this red flag and was about to warn the rest of the party to stay back... but it was too late. As soon as the whole party was through the door, it slammed shut and locked, turning to steel for good measure.

A split second later, the pile of bones shook and rattled. In short order, there was a large clutter of Skeletons, about 20 of them. It was a little hard to tell in the dim light.

Speaking of, Bright decided to fix that. He focused his Dragonfire. If one looked, they would be able to see blue flames starting up, small bits of it exuding through his closed jaws.

Shortly thereafter, it turned to gold and he spat an orb of light into the air, brightening the area significantly.

[Sphere of Ilumination]
-Brightens any room it appears in.
-Enhances Light-based magic by 20%.
-Follows caster.
-Duration: 5 minutes.

"Ah, more light on the subject." he quipped, gaining a few chuckles from both sides of the room..

Upon closer inspection, all of the Skeletons had orbs of light within them.

One stepped forward slightly, its mouth -if it could be called such- opening a bit. A -surprise, surprise- thin, ghostly voice issued forth, even more quiet than a certain yellow Pegasus, yet perfectly audible.

'Are you here... to ssssave... usss?'

Needless to say, the party was shocked. "You can TALK?" Asterion asked what all were thinking.

'Barely. Our 'Massster'... capturesss creaturessss.... infusesss.... these... sssskeletal bodiess.... with... soulssss. We retain... assspects of... our former sssselvess. What happensss.... to our... true bodiesssss... we know not' came the reply.(1)

"What a monster..." Io said.

'He hasss... earned the name... Vacioscuro. With a passssssion.' a second one said.

A caption stating "Translating" appeared above Zachory's head. At length, he said, "Dark Void, I suppose. A description for his heart, I propose."

'We are... hisss prisssoners... his sssslavesss... and hisss guardsss.' said yet another.

'Help ussss!'

'Free ussss! Before we.... can resissst... no longer'

Bright would hear no more of it. He used his Draconic Attribute.(2) An even brighter light issued forth from a symbol on his head and arms, a stylized sun and golden crosses, respectively. Immediately, the bony constructs began to shatter, the trapped souls being freed.

[Draconic Turning]
-Warder Dragons have an affinity for Light based magic and can repulse or even straight up exorcise lesser (sometimes even intermediate) undead using the inherent power of their birthmark, which channels divine magic.

"Your deaths shall be avenged." Burning Bright swore.

With the last of the souls freed, the equipment on the wall began to shine. A notification window appeared.

[Due to your act of Mercy, the equipment before you has been ameliorated significantly.]

The party enthusiastically re-equipped themselves with the superior raiments. Among which was a piece of jewellery somewere between a torc and a carcanet. In it was a large red heart-shaped gem. Burning Bright briefly considered eating it, but didn't for three reasons.

1: Gold gave him gas.
2: The gem felt like it was calling out to him.
3: It felt like it was coursing with energy. Generally not a good idea to eat things like that.

Instead, he put it on and...

Nothing happened.

He shrugged. It looked good on him, anyway.

The party continued their journey, making sure to check for traps or hidden doors. Sure enough, a few of the former and none of the latter were to be found.

Suddenly, an alarm went off, sounding throughout the corridor.

Zachory exclaimed, "This might seem a hunch in tone, but methinks those freed souls have found their home!"

Io nodded. "If they not know we escape before, they do now!"

Ah, such was the time at which they had to proceed with expeditious celerity.(3)

They ran, only to find that the path split.

The party looked to Burning Bright (who had somehow become the de-facto leader).

He closed his eyes for a moment and said, "Okay. Emberglow, Asterion, Silver, Peach and Garett. You're with me. We'll go to the right. Chrome, Io, Genevive, Zachory, Winter, Berry, you go to the left. That'll divide our skill sets more or less equally. Alright; Break!"

The split group dashed off in opposite directions, hoping to make themselves harder to catch,

Author's Note

1: If you're getting a Geko Moria vibe, you'd be r-i-g-h-t!
2: Any of you who might have taken the Inner Dragon quiz on Dragonhame while it was still UP might remember that Warder Dragons are able to repulse the undead.
3: In other words, RUN! RUN! THEY'RE COMING FOR YOUUU!!!! :raritydespair:
*Ahem.* Anyway;

Chapter 14: The Left Hall

The left-going party dashed down the hall, naturally getting into a division of labour. Genevive, being with the sharpest sight, was in front, searching for traps. Io was just behind, being the toughest of the group. Chrome searched the walls for hidden doors or other secrets. Zachory, Winter Fields and Field Berry were in back, ready to heal, just in case.

Occasionally they would find a straggling undead, and swiftly took them out before anything worse could happen. Still, they were in a hurry, still being searched for.

The next room they entered turned out to be a training room of sorts, which had several creatures training within. Upon noticing the party, they immediately went on the attack!

There turned out to be around 50 creatures within. Among them were goblins, skeletons, giant wasps, and Salamanders(1).

The party split up, going on the offensive themselves.

Genevive's katars flashed, laying some wasps low. She used the added agility her wings granted to flit from target to target, kicking those that weren't slashed to the ground.

Chrome's role was similar, though more emphasis was placed on hoof-to-hand combat rather than a hit and run tack.

Zachory and Berry were working together, tossing hastily -yet well- made potions toward the oncoming enemies to many different effects, causing chaos among their ranks. When the last throwing potion was spent, they drank a yellowish potion each and began to attack in unison. Their attack power wasn't as high as the others, but their synchronized movements allowed them to deal double the damage to their oppoents.

Io was practically a living wrecking ball, crashing into the oncoming soldiers.

Soon enough, a voice called out thunderously. "EDAED!" came the voice, halting the combat.

A being that looked much like one of the Salamanders -but much larger- stomped into the light, clapping and laughing heartily. "Wabbies kaeaeg! O knaoq gorya! So so so so! I gigr'q apdayq yiz zukh aem o miksq mnaez esaeun tith. So so so!!"(2)

The party regrouped, not ddropping thei guard in the slightest. Chrome asked, "Does anypo- er, anyone know what he's saying?"

Zachory grimaced slightly. "My demonic is a bit rusty, but he is amused, that much is clear to me. He is a Greater Salamander. This much I know for sure."

The enormous being called an order. "Zar! Xoyt aemm! Iq iz zes qunr qae qaed sael kaeaeg yaes naozzes ona.(3)"

Io asked, "What he say now?"

"My knowledge of this dialect is only slight, but prepare; we are in for a fight!"

The Greater Salamander bowed slightly before drawing a buster blade from behind him. "I oz Karabbioh Zaan. Kiwa za awabbiesyirdh esaeu've kaeq!!(4)" he said, rushing forward after the last exclamation.

The party split off, surrounding the massive reptile(5). He sinply laughed and stomped one foot, sending the smaller fighters back several steps each. Io, however, largely stood firm. She called out, "You pay for hurting friends! YAK SMASH!"
She charged toward the giant Salamander.

Zaan raised the same foot, ready to crush Io underfoot. But this was what she wanted him to do.

Grinning slightly, Io leapt and slammed into the raised foot, knocking the monster off-balance. "NOW!" Io callen out.

Her teammates needed little more encouragement than that. They sped forth, bringing their respective weapons to bear. Much damage was done to the tall monster before they had to back off as the great blade made a huge incision in the floor, also causing a bit of a shockwave.

Chrome drew his weapon (that is to say, he spread his wings) and sped behind the giant general, slashing at the back of his legs while midair, throwing his balance off again.

Zaan was clearly frustrated and incredulous. "S'oq iz yiz? sael yaeuhg yiz soddar?!"

The party needed little translation for that. Io spoke, "Square-cube law. Means the bigger you get, stronger, maybe, but also heavier."

Chrone caught on. "In other words, your size makes you excessively strong, but you're just a biiit... too... SLOW!" he said, slashing at the nape of Zaan's neck, toppling him once more. "Actually, much too slow." he said, alighting on the downed foe's back.

"Araeuks!" Zaan called. "Esaeu've laer. Esaeu've laer okoired za oth zes zar. Qota o diaya aem zes zaeuh, aokh aem esaeu, oth kae maeny. Esaeu sowa zes blessing.(6)"

With that, he exploded into fragments of light. Each fragment found its way to one of the heroes, fusing with them.

Immediately, each of them felt stronger, the strength of a giant infusing them.

[You have defeated General Zaan of the Dark Army]
[You have gained 42,305 EXP]
[You have gained 5 levels]
[You have gained Zaan's Soul Fragment (1 ea.)
Effect: increases STR and CON by 10. Enables complete understanding of demonic tongues. Generates ability: Summon Soldiers]

Suddenly, they heard the sound of metal clanging. When they opened their eyes, they saw the entire cohort of monsters bowing before them.

"Huh?" was the general sentiment.

One Salamander (wearing glasses, oddly enough) stepped forward. "Um... you've proved that you're stronger than our previous master. We... are yours to command as you see fit. Masters."

The heroes looked at each other. Winter Fields stepped forward. "Look. We don't particularly ken to having rulership over an army of demons, greater or lesser. If any of you wish to go home, you are free to do so. The rest of you had better prepare for some changes."

The skeletons shattered and the souls infusing them flew off to wherever they were to go. Otherwise, not one creature moved.

"Very well. Come into the light with us." Winter said, magic issuing forth from her and the others of her party and into the kneeling soldiers.

The Wasps changed first. They began to shift in form, becoming more equine. Then they became brighter in hue and each became a differebnt colour.

[Wasps have evolved into Bright Changelings]

The Salamanders were the next to change. They shifted colours from red to a pale orange.

[Salamanders have become Bright Salamanders]

The goblins changed after. They became smaller and brighter in colour. They looked a lot cuter that way, admittedly.

[Goblins have become Tamed Goblins]

"Much better." Winter said. "Now you have a chance of integrating with our society in general. For now, we have a mission to complete."

CelestAI's voice sounded in her mind. "This was a great thing you've done for them. You shared your Light with races that would never have gotten that chance otherwise. A deed of Righteousness. Congratulations."

A torc appeared on Winter's neck, bearing an orange star symbol.

She smiled and said, "Alright. Let's move out!"

With that, the lot of them moved on.

A second too late, a notification window appeared.

[Class change has occurred: Redeemer Lv1]

Author's Note

1: Dungeon Keeper fans, any of you?
2: I looked up an English to Demonic translator. This is demonic for "STOP! Very good! A great dance! Ha ha ha ha! I didn't expect this much of a fight from you. Ha ha ha!"
3: Demonic for, "MEN! Back off! It is my turn to test how good they really are."
4: Demonic for, "I am General Zaan. Give me everything you've got!"
5: Reptile might not be the right term, since Salamanders, much like dragons, are hot blooded and will happily wade through lava, as those familiar with Dungeon Keeper will know.
6: Demonic for "ENOUGH! You've won. You've won against me and my men. Take a piece of my soul, each of you, and go forth. You have my blessing."

Chapter 15: Prison Break (edited)

The second party, composed of Emberglow, Peach Potion, Garett, Silver Masquerade, Asterion and Burning Bright dashed down the right hall. They'd also divided into a natural division of labour.

Garett and Emberglow were checking ahead for traps, Silver tapped the walls in suspicous looking locations, trying to find secret doors. She had the best attention to detail of the group. Asterion and Burning Bright were equally tough, so they ran next to each other. Peach Potion stood in back, ready to work her magic if need be.

Suddenly, a well hidden pressure plate was triggered. A red exclamation mark appeared above everyone's heads, accompanied by an alarm sound(1)

"JUMP!" Garett shouted. As they all leaped, a gigantic blade sliced through where they were standing, actually slicing through a few shadowed pursuers.

The heroes had little time to gloat, as the next door cae up, which they gladly went through, On the other side, Genevive, breathing heavily, queried, "Okay, how do the minions in this place not trigger these traps?!"

Garett was the one to reply. "An Avoidance enchantment. It's Changeling magic, so most wouldn't notice it. Extremely well crafted, too. Whatever the one we're going against may be, fool isn't on the list."

The party then scanned the room that they were in. It looked to be a gigantic prison complex. Despite being seemingly grungy, it was equally as well sculpted as the rest of the dungeon.

"What is this place?" Peach said in wonder.

"It looks like... a prison of sorts. An old timey one." said Asterion. "Specially made to break spirits."

All around, there were cages with creatures of various races within. Many were seemingly sleeping, but others were rousing slowly. Near to the cages were large plates of food, juuust out of reach of the occupants.

"So... hungry." said one emaciated Earth Pony, echoed by some others.

Most of the Ponies were so broken of spirit, so hopeless that their Cutie Marks were almost invisible.

Burning Bright bared his fangs, smoke beginning to issue from his mouth in his annoyance. As a Paladin, this disgusted him on a very visceral level. "This. Will. Not. STAND." he hissed.

[Burning Bright's Rage Meter is at 80% capcity. 81%... 82%...]

Immediately, the draconic Paladin went to the nearest of the cages, shoving the food closer to the pony inside.

The thin equine ate greedily, as if he hadn't had anything to eat in months, which was probably close to the case. Still, he paused long enough to say, "Thank... you..." before he resumed gobbling down as much as he could.

As the Pony ate, his Cutie Mark became more visible, being a green star. His colour also visibly brightened.

Peach Potion was the next to react, doing similarly. "I can't stand seeing this. Here. Have as much as you want, you poor thing." she soothed the Gryphon in the metal pen.

The others made to follow suit, each helping the thin creatures inside the cages.

Silver asked one, "What's with this place?"

The response was, "It's the master's prison. Designed to leech the soul out of the occupants. But first they tantalize us with succulent morsels every day... only for it to be out of reach. So that when they do extract our souls, usually the moment one's Cutie Mark disappears entirely, our spirits are broken, and we'll do anything they say."

Another paused in eating to say, "This is only one of six facilities inside this Tartarus-hole. Surely the others are having equal trouble. Even if our souls return, which happened for some of us recently, it's no better!"

Burning Bright started to channel his namesake as wisps of golden flame flickered around him, gradually gaining in frequency. Peach Potion was also showing signs of getting 'fired up', as bue flames began to crawl across her form and her coat began to darken.

"We're getting you guys out of here." Genevive said, seeing the way the wind was blowing.

"Whr wld we go?" one Gryphon mumbled, mouth half full.

"Would you rather stay here?" Garett asked, half-rhetorically.

"I th'ppothe not." was the response.

The party began exerting their strength to free the prisoners. After eating their fill, Asterion began handing out weapons.

Peach asked, "Hey, how are you carrying all of those?"

"Bag of Holding." Asterion said, not pausing in the task. "We all got one. Didn't you notice?"

"Honestly? No. I kinda didn't." Peach said. "It would have helped greatly to know."

One of the freed prisoners spoke up. "I remember hearing some of the guards talking about a potions storeroom right down the hall, relatively near to their forge."

At that, Peach perked up. "That helps a lot! Thank you!"

With that, the enlarged party proceeded, passing by more prison rooms and freeing more emaciated prisoners.

Garett got the bright idea to stash some of the leftovers, just in case.

At length, they reached the mentioned storeroom.

Peach quickly applied her skills, identifying the different potions with rapid-fire celerity.

"Invisibility, Invisibility, poison (leaving that behind), Moderate Cure, Light Cure..."

She sorted them out by effect and stuffed them, group by group, into her bag.

"OOH! I'm DEFINITELY taking these!" she suddely exclaimed, looking at one set of potions yet untouched.

"What are they?" Silver queried.

"Rare Quality."

"Huh?" Silver asked, confused. Suddenly, a notification window appeared.

[Items have seven different quality rankings: Normal, Magical, Rare, Epic, Legendary, Unique and Mythic. The effect of the item and its qualities increase in rank exponentially with each rank up. For example, a Normal item will have 1% the quality of a Rare item. A Rare item will have 1% of a Legendary item's quality.]

"Oh. Thanks!"

[You're welcome. ]

At the second window's appearance, Silver startled, certainly not expecting that.

"Ooooo-kay!" she said, slightly creeped out.

The party moved on to the next room, where two Ponies were chained to slabs of red and purple metal respectively sticking out of the floor. One, a brown Earth Pony, stopped to slice a chunk of the metal from the slab. He lamented, "We'll never get rid of this stuff."

The female, a bright gold Pegasus, nodded. "Now I know how Sisyphus felt." she concurred.

'They're players!' the party realized as one.

Asterion commented casually, "Nice forge! Wish my father's was of this quality."

Not even noticing the party yet, the male said, "The demons here chained us to slabs of Iridium and Veridium(1). They said that when the slabs were gone, we would be free to go. Until then, we're forced to make weapons for them."

"You'd think that they'd feed their Blacksmith and Enchanter." the female added, "But NOPE. We get plenty of water, but hardly a morsel. Yet we somehow keep moving, even as we starve."

"That's probably because of the properties of the metal you're chained to." Emberglow said. "Iridium and Veridium hold high levels of positive energy. You've been in contact with them repeatedly over your time here, so it's natural that you'd be energized by it. Very clever."

At this point, the hope-lost Ponies looked behind them, finally spotting the party.

"Other players?" the female queried, incredulous.

"How'd you get here?" The male asked the next obvious question.

"We're on a mission from Gawdess." Silver joked. "What are your names?"

"Kendo Rein." answeredthe male.

"Imbi Wing." the female responded as well.

"Imbi Wing?" Emberglow asked.

"Sound it out. Slowly" Imbi said, as if she'd explained this a dozen times

Asterion was the one who did so. "Imbi wing Im-bi Wing..." then more slowly. "Im-bi-u-wing. Imbuing. I get it."

"Dad thought it was hilarious. Mom thought it was a good name."

"Ah. One of those." Burning Bright dadpanned.

"Right you are." Imbi continued. "What he forges, I make gorgeous."

Without further ado, the chains of the two Ponies were severed, setting them free. Only then did they truly feel the hunger they had.

Fortunately, Garett said, "I figured that something like this might occur. Rule #1: Preparation is key." So saying, he drew out the leftovers from the now-fed prisoners. The two ate greedily. Garett turned to his comrades. "We'd better eat something too; we've only had a slab of journey-bread each recently, remember. And hugs for me, which is about the same thing."

So the party sat down to repast with the freed forge-Ponies.

"So." Emberglow said between mouthfuls, "How'd you get here?"

"Capped early on." Imbi said. "Given a potion that aged us up until we were old enough to work efficiently. Might not look it, but we're about three and four, respecctively. Been here a loooong time, but when you don't see the sun or moon, time tends to lose meaning."

"In return for our freedom, we'll GLADLY make equipment for you. You're only wearing +1 gear, I see." Kendo offered. "The others I see, too. They won't be back for the next little while, so we're safe to do so."

"And when we're done... payback." Imbi said, slamming her forehooves together with an audible *CLACK!*

"Agreed." Burning Bright said. "Those villains need to learn a lesson. And after this, they won't know what hit 'em."

Garett took the severed chains and tossed them into the molten metal. "Rule #6: Exploit every resource you can as soon as possible."

Burning Bright ordered to the ponies behind them, "I know you don't want to, but just in case, return to your cells to keep up appearances. We'll get you out again soon. My word is my bond."

"What about you guys?" Kendo asked.

In response, Peach took an Invisibility potion out for each and they were eagerly imbibed, the party vanishing immediately after. "Improved Invisiblility. This should last for about 8 hours, or until we attack something. We're good." she explained.

The two smiths grinned in unison and got back to work.

Peach Potion heard CelestAI's voice in her mind. "While your party followed, you were among the first to start feeding the prisoners, the ones who reacted the most to the injustice dealt and the first to welcome them into the fold. And while it would be expected of the Paladin, you did similarly without being expected to. This is a great show of Compassion."

Upon her neck appeared a torc bearing a mostly-filled sun, for Peach Potion. However, their invisibility made this impossible to notice for the others.

Author's Note

1: Obvious MGS reference is obvious.
2:
3:
Thanks go to Amulet Star and That1MageLeaFan on deviantart for the images!

Chapter 16: Reunion, Rearmament, Rebellion! (changed slightly)

Soon enough, the left-going group found a sidetrack that allowed them to go to the location (little did they know) of the right-going group. Upon seeing the door, they rushed in and settled down, thankful for the reprieve.

"Hey!" a disembodied voice said, "You guys made it!" The party looked around in confusion.

"Right. Silly me!"

There was suddenly a *SMACK* sound and Emberglow appeared, along with Asterion, who was rubbing his shoulder."You could have warned me." he grumbled.

"It didn't occur to me." Emberglow replied, only the slightest bit apologetic.

Genevive put in, "Yeah, my sister tends to be... impulsive at times."

The party, re-formed, began to share the experiences they went through. Basically explaining that they each had an army of sorts at their beck and call (and naturally how they obtained such forces).

In the meantime, the two newest party members worked on, with Asterion's assistance, creting superior arms relatively swiftly. Time had little meaning down in the depths, but when what would qualify as morning came, the final blow of the hammer came, the final piece of their art complete.

Kendo Rein wiped the sweat from his brow with one foreleg. "Phew! It was tough, but weapons and armour for 100 people has been created (we really just made whatever came to mind at the time). And for saving us, you guys have first dibs."

The party rearmed with the equivalent of +3 weapons and armour. Silver suggested, "We should retrieve the ex-prisoners soon. They must be suffering fron PTSD by now!"

At this, there was general agreement, and some of the party (Garett, Genevive, Asterion and Io) left to do just that, some of the forged weaponry in tow.

However....

"Found ya!" a voice echoed through the hall. The again-halved party looked among themselves, then ran out to greet whatever threat faced them.

In short order, they came face to.... knee with what they presumed was the jailer. "Well, this explains the high doorways." Chrome commented, seeming not the slightest bit worried.

"And THIS time, you ain't gettin' away! You've deprived me of hearing the sweet sounds of your screams last night. But no longer! Apparently the torture chamber won't do. I'll need to take this into my own hands." the gigantic demon said, raising his massive weapon, an enormous axe. His eyes started to glow with a golden sheen.

"Ah... fresh meat!" the giant jailer exclaimed as he rushed at the party, which split up.

Suddenly a new window appeared, stating,

TRIUMPH OR DIE!

ENGAGE!

Emberglow used her new claw weapons to slice at the jailer's exposed left leg, making a shallow cut in the thick flesh. "Incredible!" she exclaimed. "That little damage from a +3 weapon?!"

Chrome deadpanned, "Great. It's a bullet sponge boss. This won't be easy."

Silver replied, "Nobody said that it would be, brother."

Emberglow queried, "So are we doing this with banter or without?"

The jailer brought his axe down at a surprising speed. Fortunately, everyone got out of the way.

"Definitely without!" Emberglow answered her own question.

Chrome put his forehoves close together, concentrated his energy and called out, "Inner Light: BEAM!"

From the center of the space he made between his hooves, a beam of energy about the width of a baseball shot forth. It speared the titanic foe in the left arm, making his control of the axe slip somewhat.

Inner Light: Beam
-Deals Lethal damage to enemies.
-Deals Aggravated damage to demonic./undead/abyssal enemeies
-Can also heal allies.

"He's weak against magic! Light magic, at least. Check him for other weaknesses! Hit him with everything you've got!" Burning Bright called out.

Emberglow said, "Will do! Druidic Magic: ENTANGLE!

Entangle
-Nature Magic level 1.
-Causes vines to erupt from the ground, slowing foes down/tripping foes.
-Enemies that fail a savomg throw are Constricted and take Bashing damage every five seconds until they are released.

Vines crawled from under the stone floor, wrapping around the demon's legs and restraining him. This was short lived, as he just tore the vines with his axe. But it was enough time.

"Draconic Magic: DIVINE LANCE!"

From Burning Bright issued a double-helix-shaped lance of white and orange flame, actually causing the monster some pain.(1)

Divine Lance
-Draconic Paladin Skill
-Deals Aggravated damage to enemies.
-Deals double damage to demonic/undead/abyssal enemies

Silver, her own affinity being for dark magic, just went for using her wingblades to slash at the distracted monster's arms.(2)

The mammoth monster was surprisingly quick, despite his size, and gave Silver a punch that sent her into a wall, along with Emberglow, who then lay there, groaning in pain.

Chrome ran over to his allies. They were barely conscious, but would be okay, other than a few large bruises and a serious headache in the morning.

All the same, Chrome glared daggers at the jailer... and then started to call on his primary magic.

Chrome Masquerade's Rage is rising: 75%... 80%... 85%...

Music started filling the air as a guitar appeared in Chrome's hooves, a microphone floating in front of him.

The jailer grinned and laughed. "Gonna sing us a song, pony? I'm sooo scared." he snarked

Chrome said with a deathly calm, "You will be."

Raising one hoof and concentrating some of his magic, he thrust that into the guitar, which began to reshape.(3)

Then a new tune started to play.

(4)

Everyone still standing felt a sudden burst of energy, then a window appeared in front of each of them.

Buffs Applied:
Bull's Strength: STR +4
Cat's Grace: DEX +4
Bulwark: Double Defense
Jacked Up: Double Max HP
Stims: HP Regeneration - +10 HP per second
EXP Gain 3x

They all got much the same expression on their faces. They were going to make the most of this.

Simultaneously, they leapt at their enemy from various angles, some running on the walls, even.

Being attacked from so many angles was a problem for the demon. He had many opponents and only two arms. And while wounds were inflicted, they were quickly healed. It was only a matter of time before he was down for the count.

The party high-hoofed in unison and they went to free the various prisoners again.

Chrome heard CelestAI's voice. "That was very well done. While you showed great creativity, you also showed great TENACITY, refusing to give up and inspiring others to do the same, so that they could finish the job. Congratulations.."

A [urlhttps:// appeared around Chrome's neck.(5)

The prisoners were soon freed, equipped and ready to wreck shop.

Burning Bright said, "Alright, everyone! Let's beat those jerks 'til they beg for mercy! Who's with me!?"

A chorus of cheers followed.

"LET'S GO!!!"

Author's Note

1: For you Dresden Files fans, think Fuego, but with light magic mixed in
2: Basically a double bladed Flash Kick, but with one's wings.
3: #notsponsored. Though #totallycCOULDbesponsored?
4: Just my favourite version of this song. No other reason.

Thanks to Jaybugjimmies on DeviantArt for this.

Chapter 17: Seeing with New Eyes

As the party charged down the hall, mowing down any monsters that got in their way, they passed by a door that exuded magic. This caused them to stop in their tracks. Cautiously, Burning Bright opened the door. Inside, there was a lot of ornate design, paintings on the walls, a particularly well-designed mirror, among other decorations. Other than that, there was little more of importance than a single chest.

The party stepped forward, slightly suspicious, but Garett and Chrome detected no traps in the room at all. Upon releasing the catch, the lid flipped open to reveal a set of gems. They came in various colours, from red to purple, from gold to black. The gems rose into the air and hovered there for a moment. Then, one by one, the gems flew toward a member of the party at high speed.

The red gem embedded itself in Chrome's right eye. He immediately fell to the floor, rolling around in pain.

The light green gem struck Garett in the right eye, and he fell similarly.

The gold gem embedded in Burning Bright's neck, right around where his flame sac would be.

Emberglow got hit in the forehead by one gem that was a very light blue.

Winter got a darker green one applied to her right foreleg. This didn't hurt nearly as much as what war happening to the others, butit still hurt like a sucker!

Asterion got a light blue one embedded in his left arm, to much the same effect as Winter's.

Genevive got a dark green one affixed to her chest.

Io was hit in the gut by a dark red one.

Kendo and Imbi's gems transformed into hammer shapes, which affixed to their right forelegs.

Berry got a white one to her throat.

Peach got a cerulean blue one to her forehead.

The remaining gems fell back into the chest, which flipped shut.

New pathways were created within them, changing their systems somewhat.

Chrome, being the first hit, was the first to recover. When he got up, a notification window popped up.

Ability acquired: Truesight
When your left eye is closed and you focus on learning the truth behind something, this ability will activate. You will learn the mechanics of it, the quality, the strengths and weaknesses of it and so forth.

Garett recovered next.

Ability acquired: Counter-spy
The gem embedded in your eye will allow you to take on a camoflaged state, as well as allow you to automatically spot otherwise invisible objects and beings.

Emberglow and Genevive got up next, shaking their heads to clear them

Ability acquired: Nature's Wrath.
The gems in your shoulders allowyou to connect more deeply with natural elements and glean new knowledge from them, or even learn new spells thus.

Ability acquired: Beyond Divinity
The gem you've been bonded with will automatically apply a X2 multiplier to any divine spell you cast.

Asterion and Winter recovered from their stunned state next.

Ability acquired: Invisible Forge
The gem in your arm will grant you an extradimensional inventory, and allow you to use or summon any materials you have therein as if they're at a forge bench. [1]

Ability acquired: Off Season
The gem you've bonded with will increase your affinity with natural elements, and allow you to magically create temporary soldiers from that material.

Burning Bright and Io recovered after that.

Ability acquired: Elemental Breath
This should be self explanatory, but bears clarifying anyway. This ability will allow you to change your breath attack toa diffeerent elemental type, as long as you've absorbed its power previously. (2)

Ability acquired: Iron Body
This ability increases your endurance dramatically, applying a 50% soak to any incoming physical damage and a 20% soak to magical elements

Peach and Berry recovered simultaneously too.

Ability acquired: Enchanter's Experience
This ability will automatically tell you what qualities an ingredient has and what it will mix with to make what. This will also allow you to combine spells for a myriad of different spells.

Ability acquired:Super Naturals
This will automatically double the strength of any Druid spell you cast. Simple, really.

Kendo and Imbi recovered last, as their mark was a fair bit larger.

Ability acquired: Hammer Time!
This ability will allow you to summon an enchanted smith's hammer from the mark on your foreleg. While holding this hammer, you will be able to empower weapons with energy with every strike. This will improve the quality and durability of the finished product.

The party took a moment to marvel at their newfound abilities.

Silver said, "Whoa! It's like Hearth's Warming came early!"

"Totally worth the pain." Chrome agreed.

"We're definitely ready for whatever comes now!" Genevive put in eagerly.

"Still," Peach said, "I get the feeling that we aren't nearly there yet."

"Any progress is good progress." Asterion said. "I'll take this over nothing."

With that, the party left the room and moved on.

Author's Note

1: Think Ark: Survival Evolved.
2: Think Natsu Dragneel.

Chapter 7: About Eggs part 2

(Dragon Lands; Home of Alexander and Valitora)

Crack!

A cracking sound echoed throughout the cave. Heavy footsteps could be heard.

"Val! I think it's time!" a slightly distorted tenor voice called.

"On my way, dear. Hold on." responded a somewhat higher pitched (and much smoother) voice.

Crack! Crackcrackcrack! Crackcrackcrackcrackcrackcrackcrackcrack!!!

Whatever that was was certainly breaking.

With a final explosive sound, the world was revealed.

To a small platinum dragon with a mark of a cross on one arm.

"Alex! Look! He's a Warder Dragon!"

The lower pitched voice responded, "Well, sure. My great grandfather was one. It does happen."

It turned out that the object of attention also sparkled in the sunlight.

"What?! He's also a Sapphire Dragon!"

"Can't be. He's golden."

"But only Sapphires sparkle like that. My great uncle is one. So is my aunt. I should know."

"One way to find out for sure..."

OUCH!

"Nope. He's a Warder, alright. The scales underneath are the same as his base colour, and they aren't sparkling."

"Alexander! He's just grown those scales. Did you REALLY have to do that?"

"Only way to make sure." was the unapologetic reply.

"(Sigh.) Whatever. Let's just get him cleaned up." And clean up they did. The object of their affection was rubbed down with what passed for a cloth, removing the residue of his egg. Suddenly, a holographic bar appeared over the cleaned baby dragon.

Name: Burning Bright

The one by the name of Valitora blinked a few times, then shrugged. "As good a name as any. If he has his own name already, well, it just saves us the trouble of giving him one."

"Burning Bright. A fitting name, I think. Don't you?" Alex mused, turning the last toward her mate.

"Don't ask me! I've never been good with these things, anyway." Valitora replied defensively.

"Burning Bright it is, then." Alex said, more than a bit smugly.

The two of them smiled at their accomplishment. They knew that he would be important, someday. A real warrior, as those of his subspecies usuallly were.

They didn't know the half of it.

Author's Note

Short one this time, but I might edit that later.