That One Patient

Case ID: #73104-921, page 19

As of today, apart from previously recorded behaviors, Patient #73104-921 (Apollo Glint) had a relatively good day. Nothing of note, except the occasional bouts of talking to himself in Tambelonese, had happened. Dr. Farsight did another interview with Mr. Glint today but with one condition. This “Mr. Skull” entity that Farsight had been talking about could be another entity dwelling within Mr. Glint, influencing his actions. To that end, Dr. Farsight decided to coax Mr. Glint into letting him talk to “Mr. Skull” and get some answers.

Below is a transcript of today’s interview.

Farsight: Mr. Glint, how are you today?

Apollo: I’m… doing fine, doctor.

Farsight: That’s good to hear. (Briefly examines Apollo’s forehoof scars) I’ve heard about what happened the other day. I do apologize.

Apollo: That’s okay. What are we going to be talking about?

Farsight: Well, I’ve been thinking about it for a couple of days now but I’ll just say it. I want to talk to Mr. Skull but the only way I can is if you allow him to control you.

Apollo: No! No Please! I… I’m scared!

Farsight: I know it scares you but this is the only way we can move forward at this point. (Notices Apollo’s distress) Please Apollo, I won’t be long with this and chances are that you won’t remember anything about it. I swear.

Apollo: A-are you sure?

Farsight: I promise. Just let your mental guard down and allow him to take control.

Apollo: (Struggles for a bit and unleashes a bloodcurdling scream before going silent)

Farsight: Mr. Skull, is that you?

Apollo/Mr. Skull: At last, you sought me out yourself, Mr. Farsight.

Farsight: Well, after you weaponized the memories of my husband’s suicide against me, I wanted to confront you about this. Believe me, I’m none too happy about it.

Apollo/Mr. Skull: Ah yes. A shame you weren’t able to save that pitiful excuse of a special somepony. It was a delight to see you cradle his blood-soaked corpse as you cried. Your misery is like a sweet symphony.

Farsight: (Struggles with his anger but takes a few calming breaths) Okay, I’ll be willing to ignore your insults for now. So, why, out of all ponies, did you choose to possess Apollo?

Apollo/Mr. Skull: His ancestor, Balthazar, like many others like him, worshipped me like a god. Long after I was struck down, ponies giving me tribute sustained me and I never truly died. Apollo is just another disciple of mine, whether he wants to or not.

Farsight: Okay, but what is your endgame? What is it that you want?

Apollo/Mr. Skull: Long ago, even before your ancestors were a thought, I ruled Equestria with my legions of monsters. All who defied my rule paid the ultimate price. I ruled through fear and kept my subjects in line. When those insolent ponies banded up to strike me down, I bid my time to plan my return. Now, my name has been forgotten by many and only a few to this day know it.

Farsight: Then… what is it?

Apollo/Mr. Skull: You’ll find out in due time. Toward the end of your little investigation, you’ll know my name and the power it carries with it. I’d bet you wished you had that power to save your precious Everglade. Even then, you’re too weak to do anything, much like how weak you were to save him.

Farsight: (Gets angry, slams hoof on table, raises voice) Listen, motherfucker, if you weren’t possessing this stallion, I would kill you for saying such things! You’ve tormented my dreams and that of many others! You’ve made me very angry! Don’t you dare go there!

Apollo/Mr. Skull: Let’s get one thing clear, welp. At the height of my power, the level I channel through this vessel is but the tiniest fraction of what I can do. I have knowledge and power that spans millennia that will make any mortal pale in comparison. But, I will warn you. Even if you finish this investigation, you won’t live long enough to see the fruits of your labor blossom. I’ll be there when you’ll least expect it and your death will come. But, I want to have a bit of fun with you before the end. Let’s see how long until you crack. (Mr. Skull ends the possession, Apollo faints)

Farsight: Somepony, get the nurses, ASAP!