The Words Of Darkness

Chapters

Iron And Flesh
Wash And Cut
Hunters
Arrows And Dust
New Threads
The Man From Nowhere
Blood And Water
Gaining Ground
Reliving Nightmares

Iron And Flesh

Celestia and Luna arrived at a large cavern opening. It could've easily fit twenty dragons, but it was guarded by six royal soldiers. They bowed low as the princesses passed them. Deep inside the cave, stood a massive iron door. Large chains and locks hung from it, clearly designed to keep something in.

The rattle and clang of metal echoed as the chains moved and the locks lifted. The door swung wide slowly, revealing the door to be five meters thick. The other side showed several more locks and chains, advertising the strength the door held.

More guards awaited, spears at their sides, shields on their backs, and swords sheathed. They lined the great hallway, bowing in unison, causing their armor to shuffle and clang. From one side of the hall, a hidden door opened, allowing another guard to enter. However, he was dressed differently than the others. He appeared more distinguished than the rest.

"Your Highnesses." He bowed, removing his helmet, "Commander Iron Blade, at your service. Welcome to Shade Prison."

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Commander." Celestia replied, nodding her head.

"Charmed, Commander." Luna said, mimicking her sister, "I do not wish to be rude, however, we have come to see your prisoner."

Iron Blade looked puzzled. He had been in charge of several prisons, keeping watch over hundreds of prisoners in his lifetime. However, this particular prison only held one prisoner. And in the years he had been positioned at Shade Prison, no one had come to visit the unfortunate soul. But, he was in no position the deny the princess' request.

"Er… Um..." He stammered, recollecting his stature, "O-of course. Allow me to escort you."

Placing his helmet on his head once more, Iron Blade turned and started leading the princesses deeper into the prison. The further they walked, the more defences they passed by. Crossbows, triple the amount of guards than at the entrance, large beasts behind bars that were trained to attack only the prisoner, and big cages hanging from the ceiling by chains.

A few moments later, they reached another door. This one, however, was far smaller. But, rather than have chains and locks, the door was enchanted by a spell that can only be opened by a magical key. And the only one who had it was Iron Blade.

The door clanked and whirled as the spell dissolved and the gears inside turned. It opened, revealing a chamber with a cage perfectly placed in the center. The Commander entered first, followed by the princesses.

"Prisoner!" Iron Blade barked, staring sternly at the creature behind the bars, "You have guests."

Celestia and Luna looked at the creature uneasily, uncertain what to say first. The creature didn't appear very responsive at first. But, slowly, it raised its head. A pair of eyes hid behind a curtain of long brown hair that reached the floor, but their gaze drilled into the ponies minds. One eye for each princess, not paying the commander any attention.

"Leave us, Commander." Celestia said, keeping her eyes on the creature, "We wish for some privacy."

The commander's mouth gapped open to object, but a quick glance from Luna was enough to make him leave. As he did, the door closed, but didn't lock and the spell remained inactive. Clearly to allow the princesses to signal when they wished to leave.

"I see you got my message." A low masculine raspy voice said, "Good."

"You were forbidden to have any communication with the outside." Celestia stated sternly, taking a step toward the cage, "How did you send it from here?"

"Rookies are very gullible and easy to manipulate." He said, unfolding his body and standing, "But, I didn't send my mark to talk about that. I sent it because I have something important to tell you. Both of you."

From head to toe, he was slightly taller than Celestia. His body was muscular and well toned, his hair still touched the floor as well as his facial hair. His only article of clothing was a worn and blood stained piece of cloth that was wrapped around his waist, revealing the rest of his body bare, scarred, and dirty.

"You have been here for over a thousand years, traitor!" Luna snapped, "It is because of you, the Crystal Empire was erased from existence. And my sister and I nearly with it."

"My intentions that day weren't to destroy the empire." He replied, turning his full attention to her, "I was in the shadow realm to destroy the blood crystal that gave Sombra his power. When I shattered it, everything connected to him faded. How was I to know that a whole civilization would be erased and you nearly with it? And, if I remember correctly, you weren't the greatest at controlling the darkness in your youth, Princess Of The Night. Or, should I call you Nightmare Moon?"

"How dare you! I should kill you here and now!"

Luna ignited her horn furiously, only to be quickly stopped by her sister.

"Enough." Celestia commanded, raising her hoof to signal her sister, "What's so important that you wished to speak with us?"

"I have had a vision." He said, standing tall, "The Father Of Monsters has returned."

"That's impossible. Grogar is nothing more than legend. Just a story that is told to make foals behave. And, even if he was real, Gusty The Great destroyed his bell, extinguishing his powers and defeating him."

"You must believe me, Princess. He lives."

Celestia's eyebrows curled, as well as Luna's.

"Why should we believe a word you say?" Luna snorted, stamping a hoof, "You have no proof of this. And, given our past together, you are not trustworthy by our standards."

"I didn't say to 'trust' me. I said 'believe' me. And you should because I'm the only one who has witnessed his evil. I have seen what he plans to do and it involves certain individuals you know well. Your successors I believe."

Celestia's composure cracked slightly and he saw that.

"You lie!" She seethed, taking a step back, "There's no possible way either you or him know about Twilight Sparkle and her friends. You have never seen them, nor will you ever."

"It's not me you need to worry about. He's already out there, planning and preparing to overthrow her, them, you, and anyone who stands in his way. He'll sweep through Equestria like a plague, leaving a trail of blood and fire in his wake. Your kingdom will be nothing but ash and dust. Your allies will abandon you and flee to save themselves. And everyone you ever care about will either die or be enslaved through fear."

"ENOUGH!!! YOU JUST STOP FUCKING TALKING, RIGHT NOW!!!"

Now Celestia was furious and Luna was shocked. Never had she heard her sister curse. And it made her feel uneasy in her presence.

"Alright, I have heard enough." Luna said, stepping toward the door only to be stopped once more by her sister.

"Why are you tormenting me, Matthew?" Celestia asked, feeling her eyes well up, "Why do you use cruel words against us?"

"It isn't torment, Princess." Matthew said in a softer tone, "I'm only telling the truth as I see it. It's my curse, as well as my immortality. That was my choice. As it is my choice to leave this prison if I wish. And yours to believe my warning."

Celestia narrowed her eyes at him and drew closer to the bars.

"I don't believe you." She said softly, "And you will serve your two thousand year sentence here fully."

"We shall see." Matthew replied, dragging his hand over a sharp part of his cage and looking at it, "I have warrior's blood in my veins. What about you?"

"That doesn't matter and this visit is over. Sister, we're leaving."

"Wait."

The sisters watched as Matthew tore a piece off his loin cloth and press his bloody hand against it.

"Take this as a reminder of me." He said, holding it out to them, "It's unlikely we'll see each other again for a very long time."

"Good." Luna said, knocking on the door, "We wish to leave and forget you ever existed."

With that, the door opened and the princesses left Matthew alone once more with a bloody rag.

"Farewell." Matthew whispered to himself, "And, I'm sorry for what I am."

Two weeks later, Celestia and Luna were speaking with some delegates from Saddle Arabia when a letter arrived.

"Who's it from?" Celestia asked, taking the envelope from her secretary.

"I'm not sure, your Highness." The mare replied, "There's no name attached to it. Just a stamp."

"Oh, well, thank you."

Celestia opened it and her blood ran cold upon seeing what was inside. Luna saw her sister's behavior change and it made her feel uncomfortable.

"Princess!" A guard called urgently, "Shade Prison has had an escape. Ten guards have been killed and several more seriously injured, including Commander Iron Blade. No one is sure what happened or where the prisoner has gone."

Celestia barely heard the guards words as she took out a bloody rag wrapped around a black key. On one side of the rag, a message was written in blood that read;

"I warned you, now choose your next action wisely. And be sure to remind Iron Blade to never get too close to a master of martial arts and shadow.

-M

Author's Note

Hey, everyone.

This was just a one-shot that just randomly got into my head. So, I figured I give it a try.

Wash And Cut

Matthew had been walking non-stop for two days. His feet bled and his muscles ached. The dagger he had stolen from Shade Prison, still red from his own blood. The wound it left on his shoulder was still wet and a small red line trickled down his body.

"Out here or in there, you still can't outrun what you are." A voice said, causing Matthew to look around.

Beside him walked a transparent figure that was about the same height, but a different build. This figure was slender, short cut hair, a shaved face, and was clothed in a black long coat, flat-brim bounty hunter's hat, fingerless gloves, boots, jeans, and shirt. On the figure's back, a curved sword was sheathed and a black and silver revolver rested in it's holster on his belt.

"You are not me." Matthew seethed, turning his eyes forward.

"That's bullshit and you know it." The figure said, "Murderer."

Matthew came to a creek that had plenty of fish swimming in it. He approached a nearby tree and broke off a limb, which he sharpened to a point with the dagger.

"I'm not a murderer." He said, "What happened was an accident. I told you that and you've seen my thoughts."

"You say it was an accident, but you still got off on it."

"I find no pleasure in killing."

Seeing a fish come into range, Matthew quickly threw his makeshift spear. The sharp point penetrated his target and a red mist flowed downstream.

"Hmph, still accurate." He grinned, wading into the water to retrieve his meal.

"If you find no pleasure in killing," the figure said, pointing at Matthew, "then why are you pleased now? You still took a life."

"This is different. I'm hungry and need a wash. What happened back home was self defense. He tried to attack me and her with a knife. What was I supposed to do, let him stab and rob us."

Matthew took the fish off his spear and bit into it. The raw flesh, flaky blue scales, and copper tasting blood covered his lips and teeth.

"Ah, yes." The figure said, standing on the shore, "Her."

Matthew said nothing as he continued eating the fish.

"She was horrified by what you did." The figure said as a grin crossed his face, "She watched you punch his throat and saw him gurgle and sputter as he suffocated in his own blood. You knew she was more afraid of you after that than anyone else. That's why she left you, because she saw what kind of monster you really were."

Matthew responded to that remark by hurtling his spear at the figure, only to have it pass through and penetrate the ground behind him.

"That was useless." The figured mocked, drawing his revolver and firing three bullets at Matthew, only to pass through him unharmed, "As useless as that is. No matter what you try, you're stuck with me. Don't forget, if it wasn't for me, you would've bled out the day you came through that portal to this world. You asked me to help you and said you would pay any price to live, remember."

"Most days, I regret asking for your help then." Matthew groaned, bringing the dagger up to his hair and slicing a handful of strands, "Had I known what you were then, I'd have preferred to die there. You didn't want to help me, you just needed a physical being to keep you tied to this realm. I know that now, since we've been stuck together, Demon."

Demon smiled, revealing sharp black fangs.

"And why do you choose to look like my past self." Matthew asked, finishing his haircut and using his dagger to shave his face, "Why not use your imagination and pick something else?"

"You mean like this?" A feminine and seductive voice said, causing Matthew to look.

On the shore, a beautiful young woman stood where Matthew's past self was. Her light brown hair cascaded down her slender Caucasian body, reaching halfway down her back. Her only articles of clothing were a black bra and panties. She turned around, allowing Matthew to look at her fully.

"Does this suit you better?" She asked with a sultry look in her brown eyes, "Would you prefer to have something you can't touch?"

Matthew looked for a moment, but his expression was plain as he returned to shaving his face.

"If you think that I thought of her that way, then you don't know anything about me." He said, cleaning the blade, "Or her, for that matter."

He splashed water on his face, cleaning it and washing away any excess hair. The sky started to dim as the day turned to night. Deciding he was clean enough, Matthew waded out of the creek and started gathering wood for a fire. He paid no attention as Demon changed back into past Matthew.

"I know enough to know that you think about her almost all the time." He said, taking a seat next to the rock firepit Matthew had made, "Even if you did make it back to your world, do you honestly think she'll still be alive and young enough for you to have a steady relationship? And even if she was, what are the chances she'll still have you? She's probably had her legs wrapped around several guys by now."

"Again, you don't know anything about her." Matthew replied, rubbing two sticks together and causing a spark, "She has far more self respect than that and knows the difference between good and bad people. She knew that I was sorry for what I had done. And, for your information, I'm the one who told her to leave. I was the one to break it off between us, because I didn't want her to be around someone with blood on his hands."

A small fire flickered and burned as the stars illuminated the night sky. Matthew and Demon sat on opposite sides, watching the flames. Out of the pair of them, only Matthew had a shadow behind him, while Demon did not. It reminded Matthew that he was the only one who could see Demon, while others couldn't.

"It's because of you, the princesses hate me." Matthew said, grabbing a burning twig from the fire, "You knew what would happen that day and you used me like a puppet. Even when we were speaking with them a few weeks ago, it was you who chose to do the talking, forcing me to be a prisoner of my own mind."

"I was the one who had the vision." Demon said, "So, in reality, I was the one who had to tell them."

"No, you had the vision and saw it as a way to get under their feathers. I honestly wish Luna had finished us in that cage."

Demon looked at Matthew with a deadpan expression, watching Matthew press the burning ember against the knife wound in his shoulder. He winced and grunted in pain as he sealed the wound.

"No, you don't." Demon said, "You fear death too much."

"After living this long," Matthew groaned, laying down on his back, "death would be a welcome sight."

He looked over at Demon, only to find him gone. But, he knew that Demon had retreated into his mind, until it was time to come back out.

"Just leave me alone." Matthew said as he closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep.

Hunters

In the throne room of Canterlot castle, a crowd of rough and rowdy ponies were gathered. Mares and stallions of all forms and fashions chattered or boasted to one another. However, they weren't Canterlot high-class or nobility. Instead, they were hunters of several different calibers. Big game, small game, ex-Anti Monster agents, trackers, trappers, and mercenaries. Some were so low as being poachers. Even a few griffins were in the crowd.

"Ever hunt rhino?" A red earth pony stallion asked in an Aussie-Equestrian accent to a green unicorn mare with a bow, "Truly an experience. Takes a lot to bring one down though. Luckily, I got ol' Kicker here."

He taped the sling on his shoulder which held his crossbow. The mare, however, wasn't impressed. In fact, being in the presence of a rhino poacher bothered her greatly.

"I've never hunted." She replied in an annoyed Northern Equestrian accent, "I love rhinos and think hunting them is unfair since they're endangered."

The stallion raised an eyebrow, but not because of her opinion on rhino poaching.

"You've never hunted?" He asked, looking her over, "Then why are you carryin' that bow? And wha' are you doin' in this crowd?"

"Six time Equestria Games archery gold medalist, Arrow Heart." She said proudly, "Of course, not in a row. Cloudsdale took the gold four years ago. I'm here because I was summoned by the princesses."

The stallion smiled as he took off his hat and bowed.

"Dust Roo, hunter for hire." He smiled, "One of me mates got me an invitation to this little party. But, I have no idea why, nor do I care. As long as the money's good."

"You will all be paid very well." A voice intervened, causing Dust to look.

Undetected, Celestia and Luna had taken their seats and managed to hear Dust inquiry. The crowd hushed as all eyes turned to them. Some wore concern because of their unpopular occupations, while others looked on with curiosity.

"As many of you may have guessed," Celestia began explaining, "you're all here because you are the best in your fields. The task that must be completed however is very difficult, extremely dangerous, and must be kept secret. If anyone here wishes to leave, you may do so now."

Several ponies and griffins looked around the crowd, keeping an eye open for anyone leaving. But, no one moved and remained silent.

"Very well." Celestia continued, "Your task is to hunt down and capture the rarest and strangest creature in Equestria. A creature known as a human."

The crowd murmured and chattered curiously as she unrolled an old large blue banner. On it was an image of a human male standing with his arms spread wide, his legs a shoulder width apart, and his head turned to one side. On the bottom of the banner was a white spot with five digits jutting out from it, displayed like a mark of approval. Arrow approached the banner and placed her hoof next to it. The print was bigger than her hoof, but something made her feel uneasy about it.

"How much are you paying for this?" A gruff voice asked, causing the crowd to look and see a brown griffin raising his talon.

"Depending on how you return the human to us," Luna said, stepping forward, "the payment will vary. If alive, you will receive two million bits as your reward. If dead, however, you will only receive a quarter of the bounty. Is that fair?"

A chorus of agreements and murmurs of understandings echoed through the room.

"And wha' about some of us with less than desirable hobbies?" Dust Roo asked, delicately talking about his occupation, "Not everyone 'ere has the cleanest of souls, love."

Luna rounded on him and met his eyes with annoyance. She took a quick glance at Celestia which received a nod.

"All records and inquiries about any criminal activity will be removed and pardoned." Luna stated, easing her stare, "You have our word. But, only if you are successful."

"Now you're playin' my song." Dust grinned.

Luna returned to her throne and sat next to her sister, keeping her eyes on the stallion.

"Tomorrow morning," Celestia continued, "a private train will take you to Shade Prison. From there you will have to track the human and follow where he goes. When you go to your rooms tonight, you will find a file that explains everything you will need to know. And remember, this must remain secret. Goodnight and good luck."

With that, Celestia and Luna exited the room, leaving the hunters to be escorted by the guards to the guest rooms. Arrow Heart stayed quiet as she began to think. There was something about this that didn't seem proper, but she could figure out what. But her thoughts were interrupted by a voice behind her.

"I do love a mare in uniform." Dust Roo said, talking to the unicorn mare in armour beside him, "What do you say about keeping me company tonight?"

The mare remained silent as they walked, making Arrow smirk as she imagined the mare guard's thoughts. Shortly after, they arrived at their rooms. Unfortunately for Arrow, Dust Roo was her neighbor.

"My offer still stands, sexy. And something else will too, if you agree." Dust said, giving the guard a wink and having the door slam in his face.

"Pig." The guard huffed, walking away from Dust's room and stopping at Arrow's, "I'm sorry we couldn't find a room more suitable for you Miss Heart. If you like, we could try to move you to the female guard barracks. It won't be as quiet, but at least you'll have better company."

The guard gestured toward Dust's door, which was ajar now. Clearly he had been listening. Arrow, however, only chuckled and shook her head.

"Thank you, but I'll be fine." Arrow smiled kindly, "I've met worse."

Even though the guard was on duty, she still couldn't help but chuckle herself.

"In reality," the guard said, "I should be thanking you. After all, you were the first mare in history to be accepted into the Equestria Games and won. You opened up so many doors for mares. It's because of you, many of the mares in the service wear our armour with pride. I personally have a poster of you during the hundred and fifth Games. Your second win!"

This remark caught Arrow Heart by surprise, because she never really knew the impact of her past actions. Nor did she think she still had fans.

"Oh, can I have your autograph?" She asked, visibly keeping herself from jumping around, "I collect Games cards, but I keep yours with me all the time. Do you think you could sign it?"

"Um, sure." Arrow replied hesitantly, "What's your name?"

"Star Blaze"

She removed her helmet and took out the card that had been hiding underneath. Arrow retrieved the quill she had in her room and signed under the picture.

"Oh, thanks so much, Miss Heart!" Star Blaze said excitedly, "Goodnight and the best of luck to you."

Arrow watched as she trotted away happily, still a little stunned.

"First mare to win the Games, huh?" Dust asked in a smooth voice, "I wondered why you looked familiar. But, I recognized you from the paper. Weren't you banned from the Games for unsportsponylike behaviour? Shooting someone else's arrow off course?"

Arrow turned and glared, fuming at his words. Without saying anything, she went into her room and slammed the door shut with her magic.

"It wasn't even my arrow." She said softly, feeling a tear in her eye and looking at her bow, "That arrow came out of nowhere and just happened to fly past me and collide with Fire's arrow. Why doesn't anyone believe me on that?"

She went silent as she spotted the folder that Princess Celestia had mentioned. Deciding to take her mind off her past, Arrow opened it and flipped through the pages.

"Where have I seen that symbol before?" Arrow asked herself, staring at the photographed handprint.

Author's Note

I originally was going to had a special military unit as the hunters. But, in my mind, they would've been just soldiers who just follow orders with little remorse and no restraint. So, instead, I chose hired hunters and a character that could show some compassion. Plus, to me, a human would be considered a creature in Equestria, because we're so physically different from ponies. Alien, if you prefer to call it that. So, when you think about it, this works.

Also, I was planning on have Star Blaze come back later that night and shake the bed with Dust Roo. But, the more I thought about that idea, the more it sucked. So, I left it out.

Anyway, I hope you're still enjoying this.

P.S. Aussie-Equestrian is their version of Australian, but I couldn't think of a proper ponified version, so that'll have to do. I hope I didn't offend anyone from there if you're read. If I did, sorry. :twilightsheepish:

Arrows And Dust

The train rattled down the track as it journeyed to Shade Prison. The hunters aboard chattered and argued about their trophies. Some were interested in what they were hunting and why. While others only cared about the reward.

"Look here, mate." Dust Roo said, pointing sternly at a dark grey griffin, "I've hunted just about everything in this world. Nothing can best me. And no one."

"Bold words." The griffin replied, pushing Dust's hoof away with a claw, "But, I still think you shouldn't be here."

"First of all, I'm the best at what I do. Second, if anyone on this train doesn't belong, it's the unicorn over there."

Dust gestured towards Arrow Heart, who sat quietly in her seat, reading the file on the human. The page she was fixated on the most was the anatomy. She adjusted her glasses as she took in the information. At least, until she heard a voice.

"Miss Heart." The voice said, causing her to meet Dust Roo's eyes, "Me and the lads up front want to know why you're here. Surely, you can't have been summoned by the princesses because you're an Equestria Game gold medalist."

"I'm not just a gold medalist." Arrow Heart said flatly and returning to the file, "I'm also a zoologist and tracker."

Dust Roo raised an eyebrow at this information.

"If that's true, than how did you have time for the Games?" He asked, taking a seat across from her, "You have to practice almost daily for that, don't you? Plus, you said you don't hunt. How can you track, but not hunt?"

"I track to observe, not kill." Arrow replied, keeping her eyes on the pages, "As for archery, I started when I was a filly in summer camp. From there my interest in the sport grew and I practiced every chance I got. I was in college learning zoology when I tried out for the Games. When I was accepted to participate and won, I used my winnings to pay for my student loans and expenses. After I graduated and was banned from the Games, I took up tracking as a hobby, starting with small creatures and working my way up. I became pretty good at it and allowed me to observe animals from a safer point of view, rather than chase one blindly and accidently come face to face with something dangerous."

Dust Roo seemed more interested in Arrow Heart's story. But, it bothered him slightly that she wouldn't look him in the eye.

"What makes you think zoology will help with this?" Dust asked, placing a hoof on the file and blocking her view of it, "I doubt there's anything in the world that can help identify how this one behaves."

"That's where you might be wrong, Dust." Arrow replied, raising her eyes again and removing her glasses, "His body structure and posture is similar to primates. See? His hands and arms are similar to apes, as well as his ears, the shape of his head and torso. The bottom half is similar also."

They stopped talking as they felt the train slow down.

"Shade Prison station!" The conductor called through the cars, "Last stop, Shade Prison station."

Everyone looked out at the large cave entrance and saw debris scattered around it.

"Well," Dust Roo said, standing and shouldering his crossbow, "time to go to work."

The train glided to a stop and whooshed steam as it reached the platform. The hunting party began filing out of the cars and onto the wooden planks. As they did, some formed groups and teams, while others opted to go alone. Once they were ready, the hunters approached the cave mouth and saw a few guards standing watch.

"Who's in charge here?" The grey griffin from before asked, stepping up to one of the guards.

"I am." Another guard replied, stepping up to the crowd, "My name's Silver Shield."

"Grimshaw. Nice to meet you."

He took the stallion's hoof and shook it before looking back at the cave.

"Where's the rest of your unit?" Silver Shield asked, scanning the varies faces.

"This is it." Grimshaw replied, looking back at the group, "Several of us aren't even on the same team. Or with any team."

Silver Shield facehoofed, causing his helmet to clang.

"Are you at least military?" Silver asked, looking back at Grimshaw, "Or have military experience?"

"Two or three of us, maybe. Myself included." Grimshaw replied, "In total, there's ten poachers, eight licenced big game hunters, twelve trappers, and six trackers. Seven trackers if you count our Equestria Games archer and zoologist."

"Thirty-seven hunters? I requested a military unit. Where are they?"

Some of the hunters appeared offended by his remark. While others didn't seem to care.

"Celestia and Luna ordered all available military personal to guard cities and villages around Equestria." Another hunter said, stepping forward, "Something about preparing for a monster attack."

Silver Shield's expression eased a bit, but it still held a certain level of frustration.

"Fine." He huffed, turning toward the cave, "I hope you'll be rewarded well for this. But first, you might want to see just what you're after."

He began leading the hunters into the cave, where they saw more destruction and chaos. Blood stains and scratches covered the walls and floor, as well as a strange black residue. When they reached the dragon-sized door, they found the locks had been mangled and twisted, preventing them from engaging. Past the door, more blood and carnage. Many of the traps had been sprung and all the cages had been dropped. The large openings in the walls for the beasts, were now empty. The beasts themselves were killed and removed in order to avoid the smell of decay in an enclosed space. Then, finally, they reached the chamber that had held the human. However, nothing appeared to be damaged. The chamber door had been left open as well as the cage door.

"How could a creature so small do all this?" Grimshaw asked, looking at the gorilla-sized cage, "And how did it escape?"

"We're not sure." Silver replied, looking around the chamber, "Commander Iron Blade came in shortly after the princesses left and it overpowered him somehow, stealing the enchanted key in the process. I wasn't on duty here at the time, but according to the reports, it moved quickly. As if the creature was part shadow. It managed to use one of our beasts to damaged the front entrance. It went through our guards like nothing. After that, it just disappeared. But, one of our guards did manage to wound it with a dagger. Unfortunately, he didn't survive to have another chance. And the human took the dagger with it."

The more Silver explained, the more nervous some of the hunters were.

"How many did it kill?" Grimshaw asked, looking back at Silver Shield.

"We lost ten guards." Silver replied, "Out of three hundred."

This ignited a small worry throughout the group. Many began to voice their opinion on whether they should continue on with their mission, or turn and leave. Some argued and started to panic. This made Grimshaw and Silver Shield turn and try to calm the group. However, Arrow Heart had chosen to separate from the group and was already making her way back to the entrance.

"Ten out of three hundred?" She said quietly to herself, making mental notes, "He knows restraint. And he took a dagger with him. He's intelligent enough to wait and attack. As well as coordinated enough to attack multiple enemies and was only wounded once."

After a while, she reached the outside again and began scanning the ground. Looking for any sign of the human. As she did, the rest of the hunters exited the cave.

"Your wasting your time, Miss Heart." Dust Roo said, approaching her, "That thing is long gone by now. I doubt there's any trace of it anymore."

"Really?" Arrow Heart said, finding an odd print, "Than what's that?"

The rest of the group gathered around and observed the print, noting its unique shape.

"He's heading west." Arrow said, looking forward and spotting another print, "And he's in a hurry."

Grimshaw looked at the print again before addressing the group.

"Alright, mount up!" He called out, "The trail's getting colder and we got a human to catch."

"And who put you in charge?" Dust Roo asked, glaring at the griffin.

Grimshaw rounded on him and met his gaze.

"The best chance we have is to work together." The griffin said, moving to the next print, "And since no one else is stepping up, I'll be leading. Unless, someone else wants to be in command?"

No one moved and Dust Roo went silent.

"Very well. Move out!"

New Threads

Matthew was walking through the forest, leaving his former campsite several days behind him. For the first time in a long time, he felt exposed. The rags he wore weren't comfortable and the cold air was beginning to take its toll. He had nowhere to store the dagger and he had no shoes to cover his feet. And since it was beginning to get dark, the air became damp as well.

"We need clothes." Demon commented, appearing transparently beside Matthew.

"How oblivious do you think I am?" Matthew replied, glancing at the barely visible figure, "I've noticed. But, we're in the middle of nowhere with nothing. And, no thanks to you, I'm a wanted criminal. By now, the princesses are probably hunting us."

Demon just smirked and gave a slight chuckle.

"Oh, please." Demon remarked, "Those two wouldn't stand a chance against us."

"You're really full of yourself, you know." Matthew groaned in annoyance, "Do you honestly think we stand a chance against alicorn magic?"

"We might if we get our weapons back. And find our old ride."

Matthew stopped walking at looked at Demon, giving a dark look and receiving one.

"Listen carefully," Matthew growled, raising a finger, "you might be the one with the powers, but I'm the one in control. And you're wrong about them. They have more power than you can imagine."

"Not unless we get our things, ride, and the Black Gem." Demon smirked transparently, revealing sharp fangs.

"Ooohhh no! No! We're not looking for that thing. You've been talking about it for years and I'm very convinced it's not real. I'm not helping you look for it."

"I don't recall asking your permission."

Without warning, Demon's hand surged forward, entering Matthew's chest without injury or blood. However, since he was connected to Matthew, he was able to do certain things that were harmful to Matthew. Bullets, or any other projectile, were useless outside of his body's reach. But, if it was punches, kicks, or taking hold of Matthew's heart in his hand and squeezing slightly, those were effective.

"Keep in mind," Demon said flatly, looking down and watching Matthew convulse and struggle to breathe, "I'm the one in charge. You're nothing more than just my puppet. I say do something, you do it! We're getting the Black Gem, weapons, and our old ride. Got it?"

All Matthew could do was weakly nod.

"Good." Demon grinned, "Now get up. I hear voices up ahead. We might be able to get some proper clothes for us."

Hauling himself to his feet, Matthew stood up and began walking toward the various voices. Weaving between several trees and peering through some bushes, he spotted the lights of a small village. The sign on one of the buildings read; Coltera Ridge Post Office. From his vantage point, Matthew scanned the structures, until his eyes landed on a little dress shop off to the side.

"We might find something in there." Matthew whispered, keeping an eye out for movement.

"Oh sure." Demon said, rolling his eyes, "I'm certain we'll find a nice florescent pink gown and ruby slippers for you. C'mon, get serious, dammit!"

"Do you want me to die of hypothermia? Or would you like your vessel to be comfortably warm?"

"We survived in a cage in a cave for millennia. We'll take our chances."

"We survived in a cage in a hot cave for millennia. But, guess what, we're outside and it's cold out here. Immortal doesn't mean invincible, stupid."

Demon went quiet as he thought.

"Fine," he signed, "we'll go in. But nothing fluffy or brightly coloured."

"You're unbelievable." Matthew groaned, carefully stepping out of the shrubs with his dagger drawn.

Approaching the first building, Matthew pressed himself against the wall and shuffled until he reached the corner. He carefully peaked around and spotted a unicorn mare and a pegasus stallion talking to each other. The mare giving a smile to the stallion and facing Matthew's direction.

"I had a wonderful time with you today, Wrench Turn." She said, stepping closer to the big stallion, "The most fun I've had in a while."

"W-Well," the stallion stuttered, rubbing the back of his neck, "it was a nice day and I figured you needed some time to relax, Needle Point."

"Well, you were right. I've been so busy making clothes for the Manehatten fashion show this year, I haven't had time to myself. Thank you."

With that, Needle Point gave Wrench a kiss on the cheek and blushed. The stallion looking at her with wide eyes, only to have his eyelids lower slightly.

"Uh... A-Are you doing anything tomorrow night?" Wrench asked and giving a gentle smile.

"Hmm... Does seven o'clock sound good for you?" She replied, returning the smile.

"Perfect! I'll see you then."

Finishing their conversation, Needle Point trotted away, only to stop for a moment to look back and wink at the stallion. Then she continued on her way toward the dress shop and unlocking the door. She turned around once more to wave at Wrench before opening the door and entering the little shop. The stallion watched her disappear behind the door, before going the opposite way.

Meanwhile, Matthew remained silent and still as he watched the couple.

"We could use her." Demon hissed, rubbing his transparent hands together.

"What are you talking about now?" Matthew whispered harshly, scanning the street.

"Why steal rags, when the bitch can make us something more dignified? Then, we pay her... Permanently."

"No! No, no, no! That's an innocent pony just trying to make a living. And, by the looks of things, she just found someone worth her time. We'll wait until she goes to sleep, sneak in, grab a cloak or something, and leave undetected."

Demon was quiet for a moment, before making his decision.

"I like my plan better." Demon sneered, suddenly jamming his hands into Matthew's chest again, "My turn to drive!"

Matthew was helpless as Demon completely entered his body. He wanted to scream and cry out in pain, but Demon had silenced him before he had a chance. His eyes rolled back and his teeth became sharper with a set of fangs. Some veins rippled and turned black. Then his eyes rolled forward again, revealing them to be black with glowing red pupils. Taking in a deep breath, he smiled wickedly.

"Now," Demon hissed, licking his lips with a forked tongue, "let's see what the latest fashion is for someone like me."

Matthew followed him like a frightened ghost. His footsteps were muted and light shined through him like air. He was the transparent figure now, while Demon was in physical form.

"Please, Demon!" Matthew pleaded, racing for the door and trying to block the way, knowing it was useless, "Don't kill her!"

Either Demon wasn't listening or he didn't care as he grabbed the doorknob and twisted. To his fortune, it was unlocked and the door opened, ringing the bell above. The shop was small and was currently dimly lit. Behind the counter was a curtain that likely lead to a backroom of sorts. And, off to one side was a stairway that most likely went up to her apartment.

"Is someone there?" Needle Point called from the backroom, "I'm sorry, but the store's closed for the night."

Demon said nothing as he quietly locked the door, before drawing the blinds and curtains on the windows. Then he stepped up to the counter, holding the dagger behind his back.

"I need an outfit made." Demon said smoothly, keeping his eyes on the curtain, "It's rather urgent."

After a moment, Needle Point pulled back the curtain, looking annoyed at first. But, she was caught off-guard by what she saw in front of her. She was frozen with fear as the creature stared her down. Then she watched him step around the counter and slowly advance toward her. Automatically, she started back-peddling into the small room she came from. Followed by Demon as he revealed the dagger.

"You are going to make an outfit for me." Demon hissed, backing her into the corner, "If you scream, this dagger goes in your gut. If you try to fight..."

Without warning, Demon wrapped his hand around her neck and dragged her up the wall.

"I'll squeeze your neck so hard," he threatened, letting her go and watching her fall to the floor, "your head will pop like a pimple. Do you understand me, Needle Point?"

The terrified mare snapped her head up at him upon hearing her name.

"Yeah..." Demon grinned, "I know who you are. I know about your little fashion show. And I also know about your boy-toy. Wrench Turn is his name, correct?"

The poor mare was so stunned, she might as well have been turned to stone. But a quick slap to the face brought her back to reality. Numbly, she nodded her head slowly.

"Wh-What kind of outfit do you want?" Needle Point shuddered, rubbing her cheek and keeping low to the ground.

"A black long coat with pockets, black pants, black shirt, and black boots." Demon said, easing his glare, "Plus, a sheath for this dagger."

Needle Point raised herself enough to slink around him and go to a cabinet. Opening it, she found plenty of black fabric and matching buttons. But, there was one problem.

"U-Uh..." She whimpered, looking through the contents, "I-I don't think I have anything to make b-boots for someone like you."

Demon stepped up to the cabinet and slammed his hand into the wood, startling the mare.

"Don't give me that!" He growled dangerously, "You have plenty of shoes and boots for ponies in your showroom. You can make a pair for me. And you have leather making tools in the corner, use those. Here, I'll even give you a design."

Spotting a desk with sketch paper and a marker, Demon drew the boots.

"Make those!" He said, shoving the paper into Needle Point's face, "And give them good tread. Or I'll make them out of you!"

She nodded quickly, taking the sketch and rummaging through her things. After a few moments, she had everything she needed and started on the boots first. All with Demon watching and Matthew standing transparently behind him.

"You really are unbelievable." Matthew sneered, "Taking advantage of a frightened pony just to get some clothes. You disgust me!"

"Well," Demon said, keeping his eyes on the mare, "you're stuck with me whether you like it or not."

"I'm sorry, what did you say?" Needle Point asked, glancing at Demon.

"Never you mind!" He barked, pointing back at the half-made boots, "Stay focused on your work and not on me!"

"O-Okay... Sorry."

Before long, the boots were finished and shined as she polished them. Then, Needle Point placed them in front of Demon and watched carefully as he stuffed his feet into them. He walked in a circle, testing them.

"They feel good." He grinned, lifting his dark eyes back to her, "Why are you watching me? Get the rest of my outfit done!"

"I-I need to take your measurements." Needle Point whimpered, showing her measuring tape to him.

Demon eyed the tape then raised his dagger to her.

"Make it quick." He said, keeping his arm raised.

The frightened mare nodded as the tape moved around his body, controlled by her magic. She started with the outstretched arm, before moving to his shoulders. Demon watched as the tape slithered around his neck, noticing it tighten slightly.

"Don't even try it!" He growled, pressing the tip of the blade to her forehead, "Remember what I told you!"

Needle Point quickly loosened the tape and measured the rest of his body. Once she was done, she backed away from the dagger and began cutting the black fabric to the right lengths, before sowing them. It didn't take long for Needle Point to complete the coat, shirt, pants, and sheath. She wrapped each piece carefully in her magic and levitated them to Demon.

"I won't be needing this anymore." Demon said, removing the loincloth and exposing himself to the mare.

Needle Point quickly closed her eyes and turned her head away, feeling Demon take the pants out of her magical grasp. Once she was certain that his lower half was covered again, Needle Point opened her eyes again and watched as Demon dressed himself and stepped over to a mirror.

"Hello, handsome." Demon snickered, turning his gaze back to Needle Point, "I suppose, I should reward you for a good job?"

Something about those words caused the mare to sweat frantically as her eyes darted around the room.

"Tell me, Needle Point," Demon said, slowly advancing on her again, "do you accept blood money?!"

Her instincts took control as she dove away from his falling dagger. Demon grunted in annoyance as Needle Point dashed towards the front door, only to discover it locked. She looked back, seeing Demon approaching her as she failed to unlock the door. He was towering over her in a second, lining up his dagger for a killing thrust.

"I'll make it quick!" He grinned menacingly, "I prom-AAARRRGGHHH!!!!"

In a panic, Needle Point used her magic to grab the first thing she saw, which happened to be a pair of scissors. Without thinking, she drove them into the back of Demon's shoulder. It was enough of a distraction to allow her to rush upstairs.

"You'll pay for that bitch!" Demon growled, pulling the scissors free and dropping them on the floor.

He marched towards the stairs, finding Matthew attempting to block his way.

"That's enough, Demon!" Matthew bellowed, throwing a right cross at Demon's face.

The hit landed, but Demon wasn't phased as he barreled past and started climbing. Reaching the door at the top, he used his new boot to kick it open, only to find no one in sight. Just a closet, double-size bed, and an open window. He quickly stepped over to the window, looking out of it, careful not to get spotted. But, he saw no sign of the mare, which told him that she was most likely still in the room. Taking one last look, Demon shut the window and turned back to the room.

"Alright!" He hissed, approaching the bed, "Perhaps you're under here!"

Using little strength, he lifted the mattress, tossing it against the wall with force. Once again, finding no sign of Needle Point. However, the door to the closet burst open and the mare made a break for the window, barely opening it before being snatched away by one hand. Demon used the momentum of the grab to throw her against the leaning mattress.

"Pl-Please!" Needle Point shrieked, laying on her side and covering her head, "I-I don't want to die!"

"I don't remember asking you!" Demon hissed, pressing the blade against her throat.

Needle Point shut her eyes tightly, waiting for the blade to cut into her flesh. However, rather than feel the blade push in, she felt it pull away and heard laboured raspy breathing. She opened her eyes and saw Demon with his hands pressed against his head, the dagger still in his grasp. She watched him shake violently and sweat as he threw is head back in agony.

"AARRGGHH!!!" Demon wailed, staggering around the room, "MATTHEW, GET OUT OF MY HEAD!!! ARRGGGHH!!!"

Needle Point watched in horror as Demon threw himself against the wall. Unknown to her, Matthew had his transparent hands inside Demon's head and chest, trying to take control. He wrenched and twisted as Demon writhed and thrashed in pain. In his agony, Demon threw himself against the window, breaking the glass and rolling down the roof. Demon and Matthew still fought as they fell and landed on the ground.

"You blood-thirsty fucker!" Matthew grunted, keeping his grip, "If I could, I'd kill you here and now!"

"You don't have the gut for it!" Demon snarled, twisting and trying to get Matthew to let go of his head.

The commotion had drawn the attention of several ponies in their homes. One of which was Wrench Turn, who looked from the creature on the ground, then up to the broken window of the dress shop. Quickly, the stallion flew up to the window, finding the frightened unicorn mare shaking and weeping on the floor.

Meanwhile, Demon was losing the battle as he got to his feet. Slowly, his fangs retracted and his eyes whitened. The dark veins on his body faded and his breathing became leveled as Matthew began taking control. After a moment, Matthew blinked away the redness of Demon's eye, replacing it with dark brown. Then he looked around and saw ponies standing and staring outside their houses.

"Get the guards, quickly!" Wrench Turn called, looking through the window with Needle Point in his hooves.

Several ponies quickly rushed away, looking for some guards. As they did, Matthew looked up at the couple apologetically, before turning to run. But, when he did, he saw five large stallions blocking his path and advancing on him. They lunged at him, only to see him jump over them, knocking two out by bashing their heads together. The other three were quickly punched and outmaneuvered as Matthew made his escape.

"I'm so sorry!" Matthew called out as he charged into the forest, taking advantage of the darkness and disappearing into the shadows.

Author's Note

Hey, everyone.

Okay, I'd like to say first of all, I had no idea what I was doing for this chapter. It was basically mental vomiting. :twilightsheepish:

Secondly, it took me a while to write this chapter because things were getting busy for me. But, that just happens.

The Man From Nowhere

Celestia hadn't slept well since she first heard of Matthew's escape. Often, when something bothered her so much that she lost sleep, Celestia would request hot cocoa and sip it in bed. However, the Princess Of The Sun wasn't in bed, nor did she have a cup of cocoa. Instead, Celestia was in the castle library with a fire burning and rain pouring outside the window. Occasionally, there was a flash of lightening and the rumble of thunder. None of which disturbed her as she read the book in her magic. Not even the sound of her sister opening the door and approaching her.

"I heard Matthew was spotted in Coltera Ridge. But, I suppose you heard the same?" Luna stated, receiving a nod from Celestia, "What would he be doing out there? It's just wilderness for miles around there."

"I think he's looking for something." Celestia replied, keeping her eyes on her book, "I'm not sure what."

"It can't be his weapons. We've had them stored under our old castle for millennia."

"Yes. Then I moved them here after what happened to you. Since then, they've been hidden under this castle. But, he's going further away from Canterlot, rather than coming closer."

Celestia turned the page, reading on. Curious, Luna laid beside her sister and read the chapter title.

"North America?" She questioned, cocking her head and raising an eyebrow, "Where is that?"

"Nowhere near here." Celestia replied, studying the drawn map on the next page, "It's Matthew's home."

"Canada? USA? What's USA?"

"It's called the 'United States of America,' actually. 'U.S.A.' is an abbreviation."

Luna turned her head up to look at her sister, confused.

"How do you know that?" Luna asked, pointing at the name.

"I visited Matthew a few times while you were banished." Celestia replied, looking back at Luna, "He taught me a few things about where he was from. He told me about these vehicles called automobiles that were propelled by combustion engines. He talked about what humans were normally like, their weapons, the landscapes, and how their society worked."

"Anything about human magic?"

"No. Based on what he told me, I don't believe humans even had magic. At least, not magic like ours. Everything was done by machines or the strength of their own bodies. The weather there is wild and changes at random. He once said that most magic seen is just parlour tricks and stage acts. True human magic, according to Matthew, can only be seen in random acts of goodwill among strangers."

Another flash of lightening slashed across the sky, making Luna look out the window and watch the storm.

"It's odd." Celestia continued, lifting her eyes to look into the fire, "We've known Matthew for most of our lives, he's even older than Starswirled. But, he looks the exact same as he did when we first met."

"Why is that odd?" Luna asked, looking back at her sister, "We've lived for a long time as well, but we appear to be in our late twenties."

"Because Matthew said humans only live to their early hundreds. Yet, he is over a thousand. Why is that? It's a question that's bothered me for some time. However, I think I found the answer."

Closing her book and standing, Celestia approached a dusty lock box that had been opened. Placing the book in it, she retrieved a second, this one being smaller than the first. The cover was severely worn and the pages had yellowed heavily.

"This is Matthew's journal." Celestia stated, taking a seat beside her sister again, "It contains every major event he experienced since arriving in Equestria. From the founding our nation to the day he was sentenced and imprisoned. But, even on these pages, things don't add up."

"What do you mean?" Luna asked, looking at the pages, "What doesn't add up?"

"The writing. Each entry appears to be written in the same style, but in different tones. Almost as if it were two different beings. Take this page for example."

Placing a hoof on the written lines, Celestia began reading.

"Day 1,001

Today I discovered a pair of odd looking fillies. One white and the other dark blue, sisters by the looks of them. The white filly being older and bigger. The blue one being very direct with questions. Odd that they would be alone in the wilderness without parents. Anyway, they looked hungry, cold, and tired. Me being me, I've decided to let them travel with me until I can find someone more suitable to look after them. The strangest thing about these two is that they have both wings and horns. Since I've come here, I've seen regular ponies, unicorn ponies, and pegasus ponies. Never all three in one. A question to ask them in the morning."

Luna cocked her head again, looking further down the page as her sister read the next entry.

"Day 1,003

The two fillies I met the other day are more trouble than they're worth. The white one, who told me her name was Celestia, has a lot of energy and is hard of hearing when it comes to listening to me. And the blue one, Luna, can't sleep at night, but during the day, she's dead to the world. Even though I can handle staying awake all night long, having to carry her for miles under the hot sun is something entirely different. Right now, we're in a cave overlooking a large valley and both fillies are sleeping against one of the walls. The little blue filly will most likely be awake shortly. I swear, if she causes me to lose sleep again, I'm making her walk tomorrow."

"I don't remember any of this." Luna said, rereading the entry, "I thought we first met Matthew when we were teenagers?"

"You were too young to remember. But, that's besides the point. Look at the tone between the two entries."

Luna looked closer and reread the words.

"The first is calm and inquisitive, as if he's trying to learn something." Luna stated, looking at the second entry, "The other is aggravated, like he's easily angered or annoyed. Isn't that being bi-polar, though?"

"Perhaps." Celestia replied, "But, I believe Matthew has something possibly more dangerous."

Closing the book, Celestia retrieved another from the shelf and levitated it other to them. Opening the book and flipping a few pages, she found what she was looking for. But, it was a split picture of a pony that was cheery and smiling on one side, while the other was dark and angry.

"Split personality." Celestia said, reading the label under the image, "It's uncommon, but it's a reasonable explanation as to why Matthew was kind during one moment and being cruel the next. It may explain his abilities as well."

"How so?" Luna asked, looking at the image and turning to her sister, "Matthew told you humans didn't have magic."

Taking another book off the shelf, Celestia flipped through the pages until she found her answer.

"Soul Possession." She said, reading the page, "An act of which the soul of a living being is invaded and manipulated to obey the command of a higher spirit. It can be good or bad, depending on what spirit has bonded with the host. Spirit magic is ancient and powerful, but can be improved and enhanced with incantations, spells, powerful artifacts, and certain potions if the host can make them correctly and perfectly. It can even merge with other forms of magic, such as elemental magic. The only way to defeat and extinguish spirit magic is if the host counters the spirit with its opposite components or encounters a rival spirit. Only a few have experienced such happenings, and fewer have survived."

Luna read the pages carefully, trying to understand as much information as she could.

"When did you come up with this theory?" Luna asked, looking between the three open books before them.

"Two days ago." Celestia replied, closing the books and returning them to their places.

Luna watched as her sister became silent and bowed her head in sadness.

"I've sent them to their deaths." Celestia sniffed, turning her eyes back to Luna, "The hunters. Matthew, or whatever it is within him, will slaughter them without mercy or warning. And with the promise we made them, most of them will be too desperate to turn back. Arrow Heart, especially, is in the most danger."

"Yes..." Luna said, standing and approaching Celestia, "Why did you call for her? I know you don't specially request just anyone, why her?"

Celestia raised her head and sighed as she turned fully to look at Luna.

"Her ancestor was Gusty The Great." She stated, walking over to the fireplace and watching the flames dance, "Arrow Heart is the last in her bloodline and maybe the only one who could stand a chance against Matthew."

"How can she be of any use?" Luna questioned, "When we stopped Matthew before, we used the Light Crystal."

"The Light Crystal was created when Gusty transferred all of her magic into it while she was on her deathbed. It had been passed on through the generations, until Matthew became consumed by darkness and we needed something powerful enough to stop him. And it was destroyed in the process. Gusty's blood runs through Arrow Heart, as well as her power. She just hasn't unlocked its full potential."

Luna's eyes widened slightly, surprised to hear the information.

"Does she know of her heritage?" Luna asked, "Or of what may happen to her?"

Celestia shook her head silently.

"Tia..." Luna whimpered, realizing the danger was bigger than they believed before, "She'll die! She'll die stopping Matthew and it'll be in vain! He's an immortal that withstood that kind of power before, yet you sent the last child of a lost bloodline to bring him back to imprisonment! How could you?!"

"You think I wanted to drag her into this?!" Celestia snorted as she started to sob, "No! I didn't want to have her die, but Matthew is far too dangerous."

"He's one, we are many, Tia! Why are you more scared of him than I?!"

"BECAUSE HE ALMOST KILLED YOU, LUNA!!"

Luna went quiet as she watched her sister huff and sniffle as tears appeared.

"He almost killed you..." Celestia repeated in a calmer tone, but keeping her fire, "When the Crystal Empire vanished, you were knocked into a coma for three days. But, right as the empire vanished into thin air and you laid in the snow, Matthew appeared from a black portal with his sword drawn. He told me of a vision he had about you becoming evil and believed that the best way to avoid it was to end your life. That was something I wouldn't stand for, so I fought him off, protecting you. After that, when you were fit and ready, we tracked him and captured him. But, I fear he may be too powerful now for anypony now, even Arrow Heart."

Then Celestia's eyes light up and her ears perked as a thought entered her mind.

"Maybe, we should try something outside our methods." Celestia said, walking to the door and opening it.

"What do you mean by that?" Luna asked, still recoiling from the recent outburst from Celestia.

"It's time we thought like the enemy. Matthew's weapons will see the light of day again. But this time, we will be the ones using them."

"Do you know how to even use them?"

"The sword is easy enough. The other weapon, which Matthew called a 'revolver', shouldn't be hard to figure out."

Author's Note

This is just another chapter I slapped together out of nowhere. Hopefully, it will make sense to you, Reader.

Blood And Water

The sound of waves lapping on the shore was calming. A bird chirped happily as the mist blanketed the treeline and shore. The morning light pierced the forest, shining onto a black coat. Blood had stained the rocks under it, as well as the fabric. A thin red line gently flowed down the shore, mixing with the water and turning it red.

For Matthew, the lake that he had collapsed at, reminded him of home. Specifically, it reminded him of British Columbia. The mirror surface of the water that reflected the mountains and sky. The cool and clean scent of the forest in the morning sun. The birds and insects chirping and making various sounds, almost like a chorus to match the musical waves of the water. But, there was one sound that didn't belong in this place. One only he could hear and desperately tried to tune out and ignore.

"You spineless, weak-minded, pitiful excuse for a man!" Demon seethed, having finally grown bored of beating Matthew internally, "If you hadn't got in the way, we could've escaped unnoticed. I'm sure by now, that town has sent a detachment of soldiers after us. We cannot afford interruptions, whether they're soldiers, the princesses, or a pitiful seamstress."

Matthew said nothing as he lay motionless on the large rock he had chosen for a resting place.

"If I could, I would've taken full control of your body, thrown your soul to hell, and do everything myself." Demon continued, stepping up and giving Matthew a hard punch in the stomach, "But, I can't. You're lucky that way."

Matthew moaned in pain as the impact pulsed through his body.

"F-Fuck... You!" Matthew coughed, tasting blood in his mouth, "I don't think of th-this relationship has luck at all! If I were lucky, I would've been home by now."

"See! There you go again!" Demon spat, turning away and looking over the water, "When are you going to get it into that mind of yours? You. Are. Stuck. Here! Your only way home is that belt of yours, but you don't have it, remember? Either learn to live with the hand you've been dealt, or be prepared to get dirty. Just like what your father told you, 'Nothing works like work.' Surely you remember that!"

Matthew looked up at Demon, before mustering the strength to heave himself to his feet.

"You are not fit to talk about my father!" Matthew wheezed, bracing himself against the rock, "In fact, you're not worthy to talk about anyone I know or have respect for."

"Do you really think I care?" Demon asked, turning around and facing Matthew again, "I'm a daemon from the underworld. Mortals are nothing but puppets to me. I just happened to find a mortal who's also a spirit arc. I just didn't count on being imprisoned."

Mathew glared, before looking away and around at their surroundings. There was something odd about where they were.

"Where are we?" Matthew asked, looking across the water at the distant mountains.

"This is where Blackstone Castle is supposed to be." Demon said, approaching the water's edge and pointing, "But, it looks like it's been submerged in the lake."

Some distance away from the shore, Matthew saw what looked like the top of a stone tower. However it was very worn down and decayed, easily mistaken for a large stone at first glance.

"Our home away from home." Demon said, looking down to the water, "It looks like it hasn't been in the water long. Maybe two or three hundred years at best."

"Perhaps." Matthew replied, taking a knee at the waters edge, "I left my equipment, ride, and spare weapon in the workshop. Under the castle."

"Any idea how to get them out?"

"I won't know until I get inside. If I'm lucky, the Restoration Crystal should still be in my old workshop and have enough power to raise the castle to get my ride out."

Demon looked down at Matthew inquisitively.

"Why not just open the door and drive out?" He asked, poking Matthew on the head, "A little water won't hurt it."

"It's one and a half tons of metal, with wires, four wheels, and needs air to work." Matthew retorted, swatting Demon's hand away and shedding his black coat, "If water got into the engine, there's no way I could fix it in this world. Unless the crystal has enough power, or to find another Restoration Crystal."

"Alright, fine. We'll do it your way."

Matthew responded by removing his boots and diving into the water. He didn't bother staying near the surface as he swam down. The water was clear enough for Matthew to make out the castle's base. Air also wasn't an issue as he noticed odd bell shaped kelp plants, big enough for him to swim up from underneath and take a breath, before continuing. But, the deeper he went, the more he felt the weight of the water squeeze his body. After a while, Matthew finally managed to reach the damaged front door. However, it was still intact and refused to budge as he tried to pull it open. Instead, he spotted an opening where a stone had fallen from the wall and swam through it. To Matthew's surprise, the foyer wasn't seriously flooded. Only ten feet of water had managed to cover the large room, but almost every door had collapsed or was jammed. When he surfaced to breathe, he saw that it only reached the top of the main doors. The stairs just a few feet away were only partially submerged, but were heavily worn and damaged. The room was illuminated by a glowing green aquatic fungus, but it was still very dark. Thankfully, a "gift" he had from Demon was being able to see in the dark.

"Well," The transparent figure said, sitting on a rotten roof support beam, "you made it. Now, you need to figure out how to get to the workshop. Which, need I remind you, is downstairs. The door isn't going to do you much good, so you might need another way in."

"No! Really?" Matthew groaned, wiping the water away from his eyes, "Are you going to do a running commentary and state the obvious the whole time we're down here?"

Demon glared back, only receiving no reaction.

"If I remember correctly, there's an old dumbwaiter that used to go from the ballroom to the cellar. From there, we can still reached the workshop." Matthew said, rising to his feet and climbing the damaged stairs, "Hopefully, it's not too badly flooded."

Matthew ventured further into the highly unstable and leaking castle. Most of the doors he opened released a small wave of water and a revolting stench that grew stronger the further he went. The water was ankle high when he reached the door to the ballroom. And the smell made his eyes tear up. Mustering the strength to continue, Matthew pushed the double-doors open and was overwhelmed by a sickening green haze, causing him to gag and heave.

"Holy Mother of Christ!" Matthew exclaimed, trying not to vomit, "What the fuck is that stink?!"

"Rotting lake kelp and decaying corpses." Demon flatly answered, looking into the room, "The good news is; once you're down the steps, the water will be chest deep. And look, the dumbwaiter shaft looks intact."

Steeling himself and doing his best to ignore the smell, Matthew looked toward the opposite side of the room and saw his goal. But, something didn't seem right.

"Those corpses shouldn't be here." Matthew remarked, taking a few steps into the room and stopping at the top of the stairs, "These are land animals and they shouldn't look or smell like that. If anything, those should be skeletons. And this kelp. This is deep water kelp. If the surface is only chest high, why are those there?"

"For crying out loud!" Demon groaned, hanging his head as he stood on a rusty chandelier, "Just get in the damn water. The sooner you get to the workshop, the sooner we can find the Black Gem. Now, move!"

"Hey! If you want to do the dirty work, then you go right ahead and take control, huh? If not, then shut up and let me deal with this. Properly."

Demon said nothing as he watched Matthew descend the submerged steps. As it turned out, the water was in fact chest deep, but the feeling of kelp and dead animal parts brushing against him wasn't pleasant. Matthew was almost half way across the large room when Demon noticed one of the carcasses twitch.

"Movement on your right!" Demon hissed, pointing toward the dead creature, "That one."

Matthew was about to retort when he saw the carcass remain still as it floated in the water, but he felt something brush his knee and froze. Moving slowly and carefully, Matthew undid the strap that held his dagger in its sheath. Pulling it free, he heard the sound of disturbed water from his left. But, the kelp matted the surface, hiding anything under the water and suppressing ripples. Another touch on his leg brought Matthew to high alert and he was sure he saw a flash of dark green scales among the gaps of kelp. Then nothing else. Absolute silence filled the room and nothing moved.

"Do you see anything?" Matthew whispered, relying on Demon's vantage point to be useful.

"Not from here." Demon replied, now standing on a floating dead animal, "The kelp is too thick from this angle."

"What are you fucking doing?! I need eyes from above."

Then, the sound of water moving and hissing came from behind Matthew, causing him to turn around slowly. Towering over Matthew was a giant dark green scaly serpent-like creature. It stared down at Matthew, oozing mucus from its mouth and letting a low rumbling growl echo around the room.

"A Mire Eel... Great." Matthew said plainly, receiving a bellowing roar that was mixed with a deathly shriek.

The creature surged forward, aiming to clamp its jaws on Matthew. But it missed as Matthew managed to dive into the water, narrowly avoiding the sharp fangs of the Mire Eel. It dove back under the water as Matthew resurfaced. Quickly, he looked all around, trying to look for the beast.

Demon had returned to his perch on the chandelier, scanning the water for any sign of a disturbance.

"Dammit, where is it?!" Matthew demanded, his eyes darting around, "All I see is dead ani-"

A sharp pain gripped Matthew's leg as he was suddenly dragged under the water. A few seconds passed, before the creature resurfaced, holding Matthew in its jaws. One of the teeth had managed to hook Matthew's left calf muscle, threatening to tear the flesh away from the bone. Suddenly, the Mire Eel opened its mouth wider, causing Matthew to slide fully into its mouth and down its throat. What happened next, the creature wasn't expecting or prepared for.

The moving bulge in its body twisted and thrashed, before a small blade protruded from within. The beast wailed and screamed as the blade sliced down its underbelly, spilling entrails, blood, and the man it had tried to eat into the water. Matthew resurfaced in time to watch the Mire Eel fall next to him, its head just inches away. It made one last attempt to bite Matthew again, only to have Matthew drive his dagger into its mouth and through the top of its head. A low gurgling sound came from the creature, before falling silent forever.

"Well, that was entertaining." Demon remarked, dropping down and balancing perfectly on the serpent's head, "Can you still move?"

"Oh sure. I do this for fun." Matthew groaned, heaving himself to the dumbwaiter and pulling himself out of the water, "You could've helped a little. Maybe take control, or perhaps, help me move a little faster by letting me use some power? But, no. You chose to just sit on a dead deer and watch as I was nearly eaten."

"For the love of... Suck it up! You're over a thousand years old, fought in several battles, and locked in a prison made for you. And now you're whining about a couple cuts and bruises."

"Fuck you!"

Matthew opened the door and looked down the shaft. As he expected, it was heavily flooded and there was no light at the bottom, showing how far down he had to go. Even with Demon's ability to see in the dark, the bottom was nearly impossible to see.

"I don't know if I can make it to the workshop." Matthew stated, looking down at his body damage, "But, then again, we're too far to turn back. Hopefully, I can reach the bottom and find an air pocket or two. If the Restoration Crystal is still down there, I can patch myself up with some of the medical supplies down there."

Carefully, he entered the shaft and took a deep breath before descending under the water. The further down he went, the clearer the water became. Soon he saw a greenish glow coming from an opening beneath him and went through it. Matthew found himself entering the old cellar and surrounded by a glowing fungus. Ahead of him, he saw an air pocket and swam to it, taking a breath. Going under again, he found the door that lead further into the castle. It was the only other door from the inside that went into the workshop. Swimming through it, he was relieved to see a dim white light on a bench. Reaching out and taking it, Matthew swam back to the air pocket and surfaced again.

"Good for one more use." He said to himself, closing his eyes, "Light the fires, drain the water, make the wood anew. Untwist the metal, reshape the stone, recreate what once was a spectacular view."

The crystal glowed brighter as he said the words. Suddenly, the castle began to shake as the earth under it began to rise. The stone walls started to repair themselves, doors unbuckled and straightened, water drained, and torches flashed as flame returned. Soon, Blackstone Castle had fully risen from the depths of the lake with a bridge connecting it to the shore.

Matthew opened his eyes and saw the cellar undamaged and free of water. The crystal in his hand wasn't glowing anymore and was now just an average jewel. Turning back toward the workshop, a smile cracked across his face.

"The truck looks good." Matthew remarked, running his hand along the smooth steel body until he reached the door, "Let's see if she'll still run."

Gripping the handle, the door opened smoothly. Inside, the black on red fabric upholstery was clean, the silver skull on the gearshift reflected a flaming torch on the wall, and on the dashboard was a picture. Climbing into the cab, Matthew sat in the driver seat and grabbed the picture to look at it.

"I miss you." He sighed, looking at the group of people in the photo.

Matthew's eyes shifted from the photo when he caught a glimpse of something shiny under the steering wheel. To his surprise, it was a steel key hanging by a string. Taking it and inserting it into the ignition, he turned it partially and saw the lights of the gauges and radio panel flicker to life. Turning the key further, the engine hesitated a little, before fully coming to life with a roar.

"The sound of that..." Matthew smiled, feeling tears well up in his eyes, "It's good to hear and see you again, my friend."

Turning the key back, the sound died instantly. Matthew removed the key and stepped out, feeling the sharp pain in his leg again. Limping to the bench, he reached for a yellow box with a red cross on the lid and was relieved to seeing the medical supplies inside.

"So," Demon said, leaning against Matthew's truck, "You think this hunk of scrap metal can help us reach the Western Mountains?"

Matthew glared at Demon, before continuing to treat his injuries and answering.

"Okay, first of all, that 'hunk of scrap metal' is a '68 Chevy C10 with a four inch lift, 350 V8, five speed transmission, and Heavy Duty off-road tires. Plus, if memory serves me correctly, the fuel tank was enchanted with a fetish that allowed to stay fully fueled." Matthew replied, grabbing a needle and thread for stitches, "She'll be fine. Second, we're not going to the Western Mountains. I'm going to Canterlot. Hopefully, I can make some kind of peace with the princesses and maybe find my Jump Belt so I can go home."

"You're kidding, right?" Demon groaned, rubbing his forehead, "That stupid thing is gone! You. Are Stuck. Here. And peace? Peace, really? Those bitches have no interest in making peace with a creature like you!"

"Hey! You show some goddamn respect to those two! They showed mercy by imprisoning us. They could've killed us easily a thousand years ago. You know that as well as I do."

Matthew stabbed the needle into his flesh and jolted from the pain. He had cleaned his wound as best as he could, but without a proper sterilizer, Matthew still knew the danger of infection. Pulling the thread tight and letting out a grunt, he managed to seal his wound.

"I know that when something goes wrong, you want to roll over and go belly up." Demon mocked, checking his non-existent reflection in the side-view mirror, "How is it that you became a Spirit Ark? Waste of talent, says I."

"I never asked to be one." Matthew retorted, grabbing the only bandages in the medical kit and wrapping his leg, "Hell, I didn't even know what that is until I met you. I was just a really good mercenary, who did what he was told. That Jump Belt was something I was hired to steal..."

"I don't want your fucking life story. I'm tired of hearing it. Even if you had the belt, you still need power to get it to work. And with the amount of power it needs, the only thing that can handle something like that is the Black Gem, whether you like it or not."

Matthew shot Demon a glare, but as he thought, he slowly began to realize that Demon was right. The belt only had enough power for one dimensional jump. After that, it was drained and heavily charred.

"What's in the Western Mountains?" Matthew asked, hanging his head in defeat.

Demon turned to face him and smiled.

"The Devil's Churchyard." He said, turning his head, "And you'll need that."

Matthew looked and saw Demon pointing to a compound bow hanging on the wall.

Author's Note

Hey, everyone.

I'd like to apologize for how long it's taken to get this chapter together. I lost a friend of mine in a car accident during the summer and lost the motivation to keep writing. I'm back now and will do my best to keep this story going. I hope some of you are still enjoying the story and will hold out until the end.

Thanks.

Gaining Ground

It had been five days since Matthew passed through Coltera Ridge. The citizens were still talking about it and concern spread from household to household. Some of the ponies visiting the small town grew curious, thinking it was just a local legend. Others, believed that what they heard was an adaptation of another Equestrian myth.

"The Shadow of Death?" A traveling mare asked, buying supplies, "That's just an old mare's tale. It's not real."

"No!" The shopkeeper stallion replied, nearly jumping over the counter and grabbing the traveller, "It's real! I saw it incapacitate five strong stallions. It terrorized the local seamstress. And disappeared into the dark forest, leaving no trace."

"Yeah, okay. Look, can I just buy my supplies and go? I have to reach the Western Mountains before the snow buries the only trail. I don't have time to waste on stories and myths."

The shopkeeper showed a face of disgust in what seemed rude to him. But, rather than argue, he rang up the supplies and watched as the traveller left with a full pack. On her way down the street, she saw a large group of ponies and griffins enter the town.

"Halt!" A guard pony called, approaching the group.

Grimshaw stopped, holding out his claw to signal the others to do the same.

"State your business." The guard said, scanning the large group.

"Gladly." Grimshaw replied, reaching into his bag and pulling out a scroll, "My crew and I are looking for the mayor of this fine town. We were instructed to locate something lost for the princesses. Could you show us where town hall is?"

The guard looked from the group to the scroll and saw the royal seal on the ribbon. His eyes widened slightly, before stepping to one side.

"It's the building on the far end." He said, pointing to a brown square building, "Mayor Birch Wood will be inside, along with Major Silver Spear and Sheriff Axe Blade."

"Thank you." Grimshaw replied, looking back at his group and waving them forward.

However, the griffin noticed that one of his crew wasn't falling in.

"So," Dust Roo said with a sly grin, talking to an attractive young mare who looked annoyed, "you ever seen a stallion with this many scars?"

"Dust Roo, fall in!" Grimshaw barked, approaching the stallion, "I'm getting very tired of your antics and disrespect. Your on thin ice already, I suggest you watch your step."

Dust Roo glared at the griffin, but knew if he tried to fight, he'd lose. So, he chose to obey and rejoin the group.

"My apologies, miss." Grimshaw said, approaching the mare, "He's a bit of a loose cannon, that one."

"No, it's alright." She replied, putting on a sly grin herself, "Between you and me, I think the creature that came through here is better looking than him."

The mare chuckled to herself, while Grimshaw looked at her inquisitively.

"Erm, yes." Grimshaw chuckled, rubbing the back of his head, "Well, be that as it may, I'll try to keep him in line. Good day, miss."

He returned to the front of the group and began leading them to town hall. Reaching the front door, Grimshaw addressed the group.

"Miss Arrow Heart," Grimshaw said loud and clear enough for them to hear, "you and I will head inside and speak with the mayor. Trackers, you spread out and see if you can find a trail. The rest of you are on supplies, we're running low. Dust Roo and Gord, see if you can buy a couple of wagons. It would be easier to carry weapons and supplies that way."

The blue griffin and stallion groaned, but didn't argue as the group split up. Satisfied that they all did as they were told, Grimshaw and Arrow Heart approached the door.

"Uh... Grimshaw?" Arrow Heart asked, stopping him from pushing the door, "Why'd you ask me to come in with you?"

"You've got a level head." Grimshaw replied without hesitation, "In truth, you're probably the only one who does, other than me. And I need that. Not loose cannons. Otherwise, I might as well let Dust Roo run this bunch."

Leaving it at that, Grimshaw pushed the door open and entered, followed by Arrow Heart. Inside, they saw another young mare behind a desk. She didn't look up as the pair approached her.

"Excuse me." Grimshaw said, resting a claw on the desk, "Is the mayor in?"

"She's busy with someone else." The mare replied, filing some papers, "Do you have an appointment?"

Grimshaw rested the scroll on the wood and tapped it with a claw to get her attention.

"No, but this is important. We have to see her. Please." Grimshaw said, seeing the mare recognize the royal seal.

"Oh... U-uh..." She stammered, adjusting her glasses, "One moment, I'll announce you. Wait here."

They watched as she left her desk and enter a door off to the side. A short time after, she stuck her head out again.

"She'll see you now." The mare said, returning to her desk.

Grimshaw and Arrow Heart nodded in response, before approaching the door and entering. Inside they saw three ponies, each a different race. A white unicorn mare in a suit jacket sat behind a desk, addressing a blue pegasus guard stallion and a dark grey earth pony stallion with a sheriff's badge. All three watched as Grimshaw and Arrow Heart approached.

"I hope we're not intruding." Grimshaw said, "But, we're in a bit of a hurry."

"A griffin tom and a unicorn mare..." The mayor said, tilting her glasses, "Odd couple, but I'm not one to judge."

Arrow Heart and Grimshaw froze, exchanging awkward looks. But relaxed a little when they saw her grin.

"Forgive my humour." The mayor chuckled, rising from her seat, "Mayor Birch Wood, at your service."

"It's still strange, though." The guard said, eyeing the pair, "The secretary said you were messengers from Canterlot. But, you certainly don't look like any royal messenger I've seen. Who are you?"

Grimshaw introduced them holding out the scroll, which the mayor took and opened in her magic.

"We're hunters looking for that." Grimshaw explained, gesturing to the picture on the paper, "The princesses have asked us to track it and capture it. Alive."

The three ponies exchanged looks and remained silent as they studied the creatures figure. Then the mayor pulled on a string connected to a bell outside her office. This caused her secretary to peek her head around the door.

"Water Lily, could you bring Needle Point here?" Birch Wood said, laying the paper flat on her desk, "It's important."

Water Lily nodded and left, causing Arrow Heart and Grimshaw to exchange curious expressions.

"So, the two of you were sent to hunt this thing?" The sheriff asked, pointing at the picture and raising an eyebrow, "All by yourselves?"

"We're actually part of a larger group." Arrow Heart replied, "There's thirty-seven of us in total."

"Thirty-seven?! And you all just waltz into our town, without consulting anyone of authority?"

Birch Wood slammed her hoof onto her desk, stopping the sheriff's ranting.

"Enough, Sheriff Axe Blade." She said sternly, readjusting her glasses, "Coltera Ridge is open to whoever comes here. No matter how many there are. But, you are correct. Thirty-seven is a large group. Which makes me curious..."

A knock on the door caused all of them to look and saw Water Lily return. Behind her stood another mare. However, her bloodshot eyes had bags under them, her hair was a mess, and she trembled as she stood.

"Needle Point..." Water Lily said softly, seeing the mare flinch, "Hey, you're okay. The mayor and the others just want to ask you some questions."

The mare took a few shaken steps forward and breathed deeply.

"Y-you want to know what I saw, don't you?" She began, barely holding her composure, "You want to know about that... Monster?"

The two hunters nodded, while the other three ponies watched. Needle Point undid her scarf around her neck and revealed a faded bruise.

"He grabbed me and forced me against a wall, choking me." Needle Point explained, feeling her neck, "He told me that if I screamed or fought, he'd kill me. He told me to make him some clothes and watched me as I did. I could feel his eyes on me when I wasn't looking..."

Needle Point pause as she regained her courage to continue. Everyone could see that she was traumatized, but were patient to let her speak.

"He started talking to himself," she said, remembering the odd behaviour, "sounding as if there was someone else in the room. But, it was just the two of us. Once I was done with the clothing, he dressed himself and said I did a good job and be rewarded. That's when he took out his dagger and tried to stab me..."

She closed her eyes as tears formed.

"I-I managed to grab a pair of scissors with my magic and stab him in the shoulder. I ran to my room and hid in my closet. He came and tore my room apart, finally finding me and trying to kill me again. I closed my eyes, but opened them again to see him choking and throwing himself around. He broke the window and fell."

Needle Point wept and sat on the floor as Water Lily and Birch Wood approached to comfort her.

"I remember him calling out for someone named Matthew to get out of his head. I-I don't know what happened after."

The sheriff stomped his hoof on the floor, getting everyone's attention.

"He took down five large stallions and disappeared into the forest like a coward!" Axe Blade snorted, "Even having the nerve to say he was sorry. If you ask me, a good apology would've been turning himself in and rotting in Tartarus. Or someplace he can't leave."

Grimshaw and Arrow Heart exchanged glances, knowing how that outcome would turn out. Then Arrow Heart turned back to look at Needle Point and stepped closer.

"Do you remember what he was wearing?" Arrow asked softly, resting a hoof on Needle's shoulder.

The unicorn seamstress met the archer's eyes and almost immediately calmed down.

"An all b-black outfit." Needle Point sniffed, "A long coat, pants, shirt, and b-boots."

"Thank you." Arrow replied, stepping back, only to be stopped by Needle Point catching her receding hoof.

"When you find him, kill him. Kill him so he won't hurt anypony else. I saw in his black and red eyes something horrid and merciless. He has to be stopped."

Arrow Heart was bewildered slightly, but said nothing as Needle Point released her. Grimshaw began to feel the tension in the room and placed his talons on Arrow's shoulder.

"We should be on our way, Miss Heart." He said, turning back to the others and shaking their hooves, "Thank you for your help. We'll do what we can to make this right. You have my word."

With that, he rerolled the scroll and tucked it into his satchel, before leading Arrow Heart out of Town Hall. As they exited, they saw several of their group waiting for them. Gord and Dust Roo among them with two loaded wagons. The others were still wondering about town, but were still within eyesight.

"Clothes?" Grimshaw questioned, taking a seat on the steps, "I've never heard of an animal that takes clothes."

"I don't think it's an animal at all." Arrow retorted, placing a hoof on her chin, "I honestly think this is an intelligent being. Perhaps as smart as we are, if not smarter."

"I'm not sure I follow..."

"Think about it. He escapes a super max prison, kills ten guards, steals a dagger, and runs. He can build fires and make a spear out of a tree branch, which we saw a few days ago, and he comes here demanding clothing made especially for him. I doubt all of this is luck, coincidence, or random behaviour from some creature."

Grimshaw said nothing as he put the pieces together. Everything Arrow Heart said did add up to a level of intelligence. But, it still left the question as to exactly what they were after. However, his thoughts were interrupted by another one of their group running toward them.

"We found the trail again!" The hunter gasped, heaving in as much air as he could, "It took us to an abandoned road with a sign that says, 'This way to Blackstone Castle.' But, there are some weird looking wheel marks there too. They don't look like wagon tracks though. Maple Root and Fall Moon want to know if they should wait. It's just north of here. About half an hour walk, maybe."

Grimshaw adjusted his hat and stood up, blowing a whistle through his talons.

"Go back and tell them to wait. We'll be along shortly." Grimshaw said, before turning to look at the group, "Alright, listen up! We got the trail again. But, this time tread carefully. The thing we're after might be more of a concern than previously depicted. Get your gear together and watch your step. Dust Roo, Gripps, and Wind Rush, you'll take the rear. Gord, you're with me and Miss Heart up front. The rest of you will be grouped in the center. Any questions?"

"Do you have room for two more?" A voice called out from above, causing everyone to look up.

Appearing from the bright sunlight, two alicorns appeared, hovering gracefully above the hunters. As they landed, everyone bowed, from the hunters to the guards and civilians of Coltera Ridge. When everyone stood again, they saw Luna with a sword sheathed on her back. While Celestia had a strange weapon holstered on a belt with little brass and lead objects around it. The alicorns were also dressed in armour, each coloured to suit the princesses.

"Your highnesses!" Major Silver Spear exclaimed, having stepped out of town hall and bowed upon seeing the alicorns, "It's an honour to meet you. Is there something we could help you with?"

"Major Silver Spear, your reputation proceeds you." Celestia said regally, "We require your guards to assist us and this hunting party. How many do you have here?"

"O-of course your highness. There are currently forty-two in this unit." He said, pulling a whistle out of his pocket and blowing it, "Fall in!"

Within seconds, every guard in Coltera Ridge was standing at attention, awaiting further orders.

Author's Note

Hey, everyone.

I kinda rushed through this chapter a bit. However, I didn't want to keep everyone who's still interested in this story waiting. So here you go. Also, I decided to add the guards and the princesses to the group because I couldn't get the story to work properly in my mind, with going by 3 different perspectives. Hopefully, this works out as good as I hope it will.

Thanks for hanging with me here, if you still are.

Reliving Nightmares

Matthew awoke in the middle of the night. He found himself on a king size bed, wrapped in white sheets and blankets. Above him was a ceiling with a spinning fan, the moonlight shone through the curtains of an open window. And beside him was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen.

To Matthew, an angel slept peacefully. Her brown hair draped and flowed, like water in the breeze. The moon lit up her face, showing a small smile. She lay there with only the blankets as her cover. No other piece of cloth touched her body. Her outfit from earlier discarded on the floor, along with his clothes. However, even though she was completely naked, Matthew made no attempt to touch her. They had made love earlier that night, but he didn't dare to disturb her now. Except, to lean closer and lightly kiss her cheek, causing her to stir.

"I love you." He whispered, adjusting the blanket to cover her better.

Matthew yawned quietly and rolled to sit on the edge. He stopped when he felt a hand grab his wrist. Turning to look back, he saw the angel awake.

"Hello, Beautiful." Matthew said, leaning down and locking lips with her.

"Hello, Handsome." She replied, breaking the kiss.

He tried to move, but she held him in her grip. Her expression also changed from joyful and content to worry and fear.

"Please, don't go." She whispered pleadingly, "It's not your war to fight."

"It's not about who's war it is." Matthew replied, placing his free hand on hers, "I swore that I'd serve my country. I don't go to fight my enemy, I go to protect my men and my home."

Matthew noticed a tear form in her eye and leaned in closer.

"But, don't worry." He said in a reassured tone, "This is my last tour. After this, I'll be yours forever."

His angel seemed to relax a little, but she still showed concern. However, she released her grip and Matthew turning to sit on the edge of the bed, his feet touching the floor.

The rumble of the APC echoed over the radio chatter. Matthew looked down at his boots, taking the picture he kept in them and looking at it. Putting two fingers to his lips, he kissed them and touched the face of his angel.

"I miss you, baby." Matthew said quietly, tucking the picture away and taking hold of his rifle.

Inspecting his weapon, Matthew felt a nudge from the soldier sitting beside him. Looking over, he recognized the face and grinned.

"This your last tour, Blackwood?" The soldier asked.

"Yes, it is." Matthew replied, "Truth is, my fiancé gets too worried. So, I figured I'd resign while we're still young."

"Got any plans for after?"

"I don't know. Maybe I'll become a cop or something."

Another voice boomed over the radio, sounding panicked.

"This is Hunter 6-5! Maj. Jack West!" The voice called, overlapped by the sound of gunfire and static, "We're under heavy enemy fire and have several wounded! Current number of tangoes is not available at this time! We need immediate support and Medivac!"

"Hunter 6-5," Matthew's commanding officer replied, "This is Hunter 8-1. Support is currently on route. E.T.A. five minutes. How copy? Over."

"Five minutes, solid copy! We'll hold the line until you get here, 8-1! 6-5, out!"

The commanding officer now addressed his men, staring darkly.

"Gentlemen," He said, readying his weapon, "prepare for Hell!"

Shortly, the sounds of bullets hitting the armoured vehicle rattled throughout the interior.

"How far are we from, our deployment site?" The commanding officer asked over the rattling.

"It's this next left." The driver replied, turning the wheel.

But, just as he rounded the corner, an explosion happened under the APC. Destroying some of its wheels and stopping it cold.

"All units, all units! Move to secondary deployment site! Lead vehicle has been disabled by IED!" Matthew's CO ordered over the radio, "Stay close to the buildings and stay alert! Hunter 8-1, out!"

Standing from his seat, he scanned the men with him.

"Everyone alright?" He called out, receiving several positive replies, "Good. We need to move and rejoin the rest of the group. Corp. Stevens, get that door open."

"Yes, sir." The soldier siting next to Matthew said, standing and unlocking the door.

Pushing it open slowly and exiting the vehicle, Stevens took a position against the corner and signalling it clear. The other ten soldiers, including the CO and driver, exited their transport and took up other defensive positions. Matthew moved to the front of the APC, using it for cover as he watched for any trouble.

"Alright, Hunter 6's position is due southwest of here. About half a kilometer." The CO said, looking at a map, "Fastest way is through these buildings. If we're lucky, there shouldn't be much resistance. Move out!"

Leading the way, the CO took his men through an alleyway and around a large building, with Matthew and Stevens as rear guard. They didn't get far when bullets zipped by and tore into the concrete.

"Shit!" The CO exclaimed, "Technical! Fall back!"

They retreated around the corner, taking defensive positions facing toward where they came from. The technical didn't advance after them, but they knew it didn't leave either.

"Blackwood, Stevens, Thompson," The CO commanded, looking at Matthew and the other two soldiers, "you three flank from the second floor of that building. Take out that technical from the high ground. Vance, Ramos, Greene, you'll flank it from behind. The rest of you are with me, drawing its fire. Move!"

Matthew and the other two advanced toward the building and entered. To their surprise, there was only a handful of enemies on the second floor, making it easier to get their job done. Hearing the technical fire toward the front group, Matthew's team and the team behind the technical opened fire. Tossing a grenade into the technical, rendering it useless.

After a while they arrived to help the other units. But, even with the added firepower, bullets flew, blood poured, and explosions erupted everywhere.

"RPG!" A voice called out, causing Matthew to look and take cover, just as it flew over him and exploded.

Matthew recoiled from the punch he had taken to his face, feeling another hit his gut. Collapsing on the floor and heaving.

"You let rage and fear control you, Matthew." An older Asian man said, walking around the younger man, "You must learn to channel it and be its master. Not the other way around."

Matthew stood and raised his fists again, wiping sweat and blood from his face.

"F-fear and anger aren't my problem." Matthew said, shaking his head, "I came to you because I wanted to learn how to protect everyone close to me. Without a weapon."

"And yet you seem to only learn how to get hit."

Matthew swung his right arm, attempting to hit the older man. However, the man simply ducked and spun his leg around, catching both of Matthew's legs and causing him to fall on his back. Refusing to quit, Matthew spun himself, trying to trip the man. But, he jumped and landed both feet on Matthew's stomach, before leaping off again.

Matthew retched and spat blood onto the floor, coughing heavily. The man retrieved a towel from a bucket and tossed it onto the red spot.

"Clean that up." The man said sternly, "Your blood isn't worthy of staining my floor."

Matthew said nothing as he rolled to his knees and grabbed the towel, wiping away his blood. Once it was clean, he just stayed on his knees, resting his hands on his thighs. He looked down at the wooden floor, as the old man placed a cushion in front of Matthew and also rested on his knees.

"Fear and anger are not your only problem, my student." The man said, leaning closer and presenting a cup of warm tea to Matthew, "You choose to hold on to things that have passed, refusing to accept them and make peace. You must train your mind to be the stream, before you become the river."

Matthew took the teacup and sipped it, tasting the flavour and grimacing.

"Come." The man said, standing and walking toward an open door, "I must show you something."

Matthew stood and winced as the pain gripped his body. Passing through the door, a young Asian woman stood holding an empty tray.

"I'll take your cup." She said, gesturing to the little teacup the North American man held.

She was very attractive, from Matthew's perspective. But, he only had room for one in his heart. And she could see that in Matthew as he placed the cup on the tray.

"It was good." Matthew said, giving a kind grin, "Thank you."

She nodded as she turned away and left. Matthew turned back to the old man and followed him into a garden of some sort.

"You and I see the world in different ways, my student." The man said as the walked along the path, "I am certain that you already know this. That is why, among the many students I have had over the years, you are the only one that I have showed this to. Not because you see differently, but because you know there is another side."

He lead Matthew into a small structure, some distance away from the main building. Opening the door, Matthew watched as the man took a stick from a vase beside the entrance.

"Take an incense stick and place it in the sand." He said, watching Matthew do as he was told.

The man approached a mural on the wall and held his incense above a burning candle, before placing it in the pot of sand. Matthew did the same and remained quiet, watching the old man bow his head and speak a prayer.

"There is something within you." The man said, his voicing altering and growing raspy, "And I want out!"

Without warning, the old man rounded on Matthew showing a row of sharp teeth and pouncing on Matthew. He managed to grab and throw the old man away, before running toward the door. He opened it and was met by a soldier with bullet holes all over his body.

"You didn't cover me!" The soldier said, punching Matthew, "You were my brother, dammit!"

"It wasn't my fault, Stevens." Matthew retorted, blocking the hits until the soldier disappeared in a bloom of smoke.

Matthew turned around to run again, but a young Caucasian brunette woman stood in his way. Fully naked and holding a rose, she approached him.

"One more tour and you'd be all mine." She whimpered, holding out the rose, "That's what you said. But, you still brought death home with you."

Matthew reached out and took hold of the rose. But, as his left hand closed around the stem, a flash of light and a loud bang tore between him and her. Matthew looked down to see and was horrified. In Matthew's right hand was a black and silver revolver with smoke rising from the end of the barrel.

"No..." Matthew said, dropping the gun and catching the woman, "No, no, no!"

He held her with his left arm, while his right hand pressed against the gunshot wound a couple inches above her belly button. Blood seeped between his fingers, painting her skin red. Her breathing became faint and her body slumped.

"Hey, stay with me!" Matthew pleaded, keeping pressure on her wound, "You'll be okay. I-I'll make this right."

But, it was too late. She died in his arms and faded away into nothing, leaving blood on Matthew's right hand and a rose in his left. After a moment, he heard footsteps approaching and looked to see who it was.

"You!" Matthew seethed, seeing a man with his face wearing all black, "Your responsible for all this!"

"How could I have done anything?" Demon replied, surging forward and placing his hand against Matthew's forehead, "I just watched."

Matthew's eyes shot open as he sat up, seeing Demon's hand pull away from his head. Quickly, rising to his feet, Matthew placed his hands against the bed of his truck. His head hung down and he breathed heavily, before leveling himself and turning toward Demon.

"If you weren't in my head and in physical form, right now," Matthew growled, glaring at the figure, "I'd twist your fucking neck so many times, I'd take off your head and use it as a hood ornament."

"You could try." Demon replied smugly.

Matthew could feel the rage burning within him, but he remembered what Master Yin taught him. Taking a breath and composing himself, remembering that everyone he knew was alive and unharmed when he last saw them.

"There will come a day when you'll be on the losing end, Demon." Matthew said, looking to the horizon and seeing the orange glow of the sun, "And when you are, I'll be the one to send you back to Hell."

With that, Matthew packed up his camp and climbed into the driver seat. He took another look and watched Celestia's sun peaked over the trees, before turning the ignition and roaring away.

Author's Note

Hey, everyone.

Okay, I'll admit, when I started writing this chapter, I went completely off the rails with my originally idea. I was just going to have Matthew as ex-special forces or black ops. But, as I thought about it, I decided to go this way instead.

BTW, you might have noticed that I used last names here. This will most likely be the only time I do that. Just for the fact that those are real last names. But, they're being used for fictional characters. So, if any of you have family, friends, or you have these last names and serve in the military, I wasn't trying to mock or disrespect anyone. Especially, if your name is similar to the main character.

Anyway, thought I'd share my bit. I hope you are still enjoying this story.