Chapters "They have arrived Tia."
Sighing the sun princess tore her gaze away from her reflection. Looking over towards the group Celestia nods before gesturing them to come inside. The ponies did so all though with a bit of hesitation. Once they were inside they began to gather around the table. As they did so Celestia began looking at each pony in turn. She took note of their wary expressions as well as their rigid posture. She of course couldn't fault them for that. After all, the challenge that waited for them was like no other. Especially in regards to who they were facing.
"Good evening every pony" Celestia began. Her voice is unusually stiff. In response, Luna cast a worried look in her direction. Ignoring her sister Celestia continued. "Now I'm pretty sure you all have figured out the reason as to why you were summoned." In response 1 out of two ponies nodded. One in particular however merely sighed before speaking.
"She's back again isn't she?"
Looking over at her past student Celestia nodded. The pony in question growled in anger and frustration. In response, Celestia raised a hoof.
"Calm yourself Star Swirl."
"How can I stay calm when she's out there?!" He snapped. Celestia merely sighed in repose. She understood his frustrations she did, but they needed to stay focused. After all, they couldn't afford to waste time. Looking at the pony across from Star Swirl Celestia nodded. Clearing her throat the pink pegasus with a diamond-shaped cutie mark began to speak. " approximately two days ago we have received reports 0f pony corpses going missing."
In response, a unicorn sitting by the pegasus snorted. "So what if a few corpses went missing so what?" That doesn't mean anything."
"Clover" Star Swirl warned. Said unicorn slammed her hoof on the table.
"TWILIGHT SPARKLE IS DEAD!"
Silence.
For several long moments, no pony dared to speak. The atmosphere around them completely changed. Becoming even heavier than before. In truth Clover was right. At least somewhat. Twilight Sparkle should have been dead a long time ago.
"I cut off her head" clover stated coldly. Her expression is that of sneering hatred. "I tore her apart limb from bloody limb." "Then I light her body on fire and watched as she became nothing but a pile of bones."
"Then?" Star swirl asked after a moment of silence. Clover simply glared at her ex-lover before replying.
"I buried her."
"If that's true then who dug her up?" Luna asked coldly. Clover looked over at her in shock. Celestia herself merely stood back and let Luna do all the talking. "Thou is correct Twilight Sparkle should have been dead." Luna paused. Her gaze momentarily aimed at the floor. A sorrowful expression on her face. When she spoke her tone was that of past regret. "If twilight Sparks was mortal that is."
Silence.
It was a long moment before any pony spoke.
"Is there something you aren't telling us? Star Swirl asked. His expression being of disbelief. Luna merely sighed before speaking. "You are aware of Twilight"s unique healing abilities yes?"
Every pony nodded.
It was a well-known fact that Twilight was born gifted and cursed. One of these gifts other than her magic was her unique healing. Being able to heal most if not all injuries in seconds. This alone made her stand out even more. However, Clover took this into account. That is why she decided the best course of action was to cut off her head. After all as far as they were concerned Twilight has yet to regenerate entire limbs. The possibility alone never crossed their minds.
Until now.
"We believe that Twilight"s ability goes deeper than merely healing wounds.
"In other words, Twilight is immortal" Clover stated coldly. Luna could do nothing but nod. "I should have never interfered in the first place I'm sorry." The princess of the night bowed her head as a lone tear slid down her face. Celestia quickly went to her sister's side to comfort her. Wrapping a wing around her sibling she pulled Luna close. "It's okay Luna you did the best you could" Celestia soothed. "I knew something was wrong with the birth" Luna muttered quietly, "and yet I still choose to interfere."
Just as Celestia was about a sound stopped her. It was a sound that sent chills down her very core. A sound the young alicorn was all too familiar with.
The sound of screaming ponies.
"Oh my god," Celestia whispered in horror. The others had similar reactions. All except Luna who was shaking with rage. The sight that greeted them was not a pleasant one. It was more akin to something you would see in some type of apocalyptic scenario. The bodies of ponies of all sex and ages lay littered about. Dozens of homes were either on fire or destroyed. Those who survived were trying desperately to escape. One such pony was a pregnant mare. Upon spotting the trio she ran towards them. Tears falling freely from her face as she screamed for help. For mercy.
Only to be crushed by a massive leg.
Said appendage belonged to a creature. It was massive. Nearly the size of a baby Ursa Major. If not bigger. The thing stood on two legs. With its body being made of a substance Celestia had never seen before. The head itself was simply made up of a large glowing eye. While the rest of its body was covered in dozens of glowing crystals.
"Help every pony evacuate!" Luna shouted. Before any pony could react she was already in the air heading straight towards the thing. "Luna!' Celestia called, but she was already far too late. Thinking quickly she looks towards Star Swirl and the others. "You heard what Luna said! Go! They wordlessly nodded. Not wanting to argue upon seeing the look in Celestia's eyes. With that done Celestia turns back towards the task at hoof.
Screaming in rage Luna casts a fire spell towards her opponent. However, all that did was merely get its attention. Furthermore when her spell contacted the crystals glowed brighter than before. Faster than Luna could react the massive being's first made contact. Said object punched her with enough force to send her hurtling towards the ground. In witch, a massive crater was formed upon landing.
"NO!" Celestia screamed. Her eyes becoming that of living flame. She rammed into the thing with enough force to cause a mini earthquake. Screaming Celestia fired a magic beam directly towards the eye. In response one of its massive hands grabs Celestia causing the sun princess to stop her assault. It then rammed her viciously into the ground. Temporary stunning Celestia. Aiming its massive eye at her the thing fired its very own beam. In doing so it nearly blinded every pony in the area. To add insult to injury once it was done it then proceeded to stomp on her.
Celestia screamed. Feeling like her entire body was gonna snap in half due to its massive weight. Suddenly something dark tore straight through Its leg. Leaving it to hobby around somewhat awkwardly. Grabbing its arms Luna used her immense strength to throw the thing temporarily off balance. Not wanting to waste the opportunity Luna then aimed to try and take out its other leg. However, before she could one of the crystals dislodged itself from the creature. Shooting out towards Luna it percied her wing. As such the princess couldn't help but scream in pain. That was short-lived as the creature struck her side with its fist. Sending the mare flying.
Picking itself back up the machine goes over and checks the hole it left Celestia in. Only to seemly tilts its head in confusion as said the the the princess was nowhere to be found.
Its confusion was answered as the sun princess herself tore straight its chest. Leaving a massive hole in her wake. This seemed to be fatal as the thing immediately collapsed.
"LUNA! Celestia shouts looking around for her sister. However, despite her best efforts, she could not spot the darker alicorn. Just as Celestia began to panic in earnest she felt a tap on her shoulder.
"I hope thou didn't think I was dead."
The two quickly embraced. With Luna flinching somewhat due to her injured wing. Upon seeing Celestia's worried expression Luna shook her head. "It is merely a flesh wound sister." Celestia opened her mouth to respond.
However, before she could a noise cut her off.
Looking back the two alicorns see the thing's eye slowly began to open. Wanting to know as much as she can Celestia went over to get a closer look. Once it was fully open she cast a peek inside.
What she saw next made her freeze solid.
Inside was a pony. Said pony was connected to dozens upon dozens of wires. If that wasn't enough said pony looked extremely malnourished. So much so that Celestia could visibly see her ribs, but most importantly instead of the yellow and red that Celestia was familiar with the pony was now a dull grey. So much so that it looked as if her entire being was sucked out of her.
"Sunset" Celestia whispers. Her voice was a mixture of horror, disbelief, and growing despair. In response, the pony opened one single eye.
An eye that was the color purple.
"Th-thanks C-Celestia c-couldn't d-do I-it w-without y- you." Sunset gave Celestia an emotionless smile before closing her eyes.
The sun goddess did the only thing she could.
She screamed.
Twilight Sparkle stares emotionlessly into the glowing dark orb. Her little experiment was somewhat a success. As she thought no mere machine would stand toe to toe with the princesses for long.
At least not yet.
Though to be honest that wasn't the sole purpose of her experiment. As twilight thought this a knock was heard on her door. "Come in," the mare says. Her voice is devoid of any emotion. The door opens. A second later a purple baby dragon entered the room. A cheerful smile on his face. "Hey, Twilight!" The dragon waved.
"Hello, spike."
"How did your experiment go?"
Twilight glances towards the orb. The orb itself shows a crying Celestia as she cradled her dead adopted daughter. The orb zooms out showing a near hysteric Clover in the background. Said pony couldn't tear her gaze away from Sunset shimmer. She looked as if she wanted nothing more than to go up and cradle the pony herself.
Looking back at her brother Twilight shrugged.
"It did the job."
Humming.
That is the first thing Queen Chrysalis heard as she slowly regained consciousness. At first, she assumed that the humming was simply due to the hive mind. Such an occurrence wasn't exactly uncommon after all, but it didn't take her long to realize that wasn't the case. Chrysalis"s eyes shot open in alarm. It took her all but two seconds to realize that she currently wasn't in the hive. It took her a few seconds longer to realize that she wasn't able to move.
"Your awake!"
A voice spoke. Immediately chrysalis"s eyes automatically darted towards the source of the voice. Only to realize that she was currently unable to spot the pony in question. This alone sent Chrysalis on edge. However, she was a changeling and as such, she had an ability all changelings had. Mentally reaching out she scanned the ponies emotions. Immediately she knew that the pony held no I will towards her. Chrysalis felt a sense of amazement and wonder from the mare. However, before she could go any deeper the pony spoke up once more.
"You wouldn't believe how long it took me to drag you over here." The mare giggled.
Immediately Chrysalis took offense to that.
The unknown pony shrugged. "At least I didn't have to kill any gross bugs, unlike Spike."
An overwhelming sense of horror hit Chrysalis square in the chest. With said emotion came memories. Memories that were previously forgotten until now.
Canterlot.
Invasion.
Princess Cadence and Shining Armor.
Failed.
She had failed.
Tears began to form themselves in Chrysalis"s eyes. Upon seeing this the pony shook her head. "Awww don't worry the pain will only last for a little while." Said pony reached over and gently wiped the changeling's tears away.
Green eyes met bright yellow ones.
"My name is Derpy by the way!" The pegasus smiled. Said smile was friendly and childlike in appearance.
Chrysalis hated it.
Despite this Chrysalis noticed something externally off about this mare. For one the mare's hoof in question was made of a crystal-like substance, and for another, the pony had trouble looking her in the eyes. So much so that Chrysalis was amazed that the mare could even see. After a moment Derpy removed her hoof. The grey pony then proceeds to human unknown tune. As she did this the mare went about gathering some much-needed supplies. Chrysalis"s tried desperately to move. However, try as she might the changeling couldn't even flinch. With that option out the window, Chrysalis then tried using her magic. Only for an immense pain to shoot up her skull. The pain was so great that Chrysalis was sure she was gonna lose consciousness. When that didn't happen the changeling then tried getting a good look at her horn.
She immediately regretted doing so.
What was once her horn? Was now nothing more than an empty stump. This realization alone sent shock waves to the changeling's soul. Without her horn, Chrysalis had no way of escaping. At least not in her current condition. With her hive possibly dead and her use of magic practically nonexistent she truly began to panic.
However, this was short-lived as the sound of a metal door opening reached her ears.
"You called?"
The changeling blinked in confusion. She heard a ponies voice and yet.
Reaching out further with her mind Chrysalis scanned the pony's emotions. Only to confirm what she already thought. This new pony. A mare judging by the sound of her voice felt only one thing.
Nothing.
This mare felt absolutely nothing. Love, hate. Passion, all of these emotions were practically nonexistent. To Chrysalis this pony was nothing more than a living breathing rock. Scratch that rocks are filled with more emotions than this mare. This alone terrified Chrysalis more than anything else in the world. This is because she can tell what ponies what truly capable of simply by their emotions. This alone helped her survive despite the odds many times over, but this? It was like fighting the world's deadliest fighter blindfolded.
"Oh, your awake" the pony stated. Her tone was void of any life. This alone sent a shiver down Chrysalis"s spine. "You probably have lots of questions." If Chrysalis could nod she would have. Seemly reading her mind the pony spoke up once more.
"Logically I don't see the need to answer any of them."
Chrysalis wanted to scream.
"With that being said however we should be done soon." With that, the mare walked over to a small table. This table was filled with various surgical items she deemed necessary. The grey mare spoke up. I seemly view this as a great opportunity to make conversation.
"Hey, Twilight?"
"Yes, Derpy?"
"Where's Spike?"
"Taking a shower." "Changeling blood is hard to remove, Especially with scales."
"That sucks."
"Indeed Derpy, indeed."
It was at that moment that Chrysalis truly began to cry.
Only to silently scream as a blade pierced her skin.
Twilight neatly placed her surgical equipment into the order that she found most efficient. Of course, such a thing was logically debated instead of mere emotion. Regardless of which Twilight deemed it as useful nonetheless. Beside her Derpy happily wiped the blood from her hooves. Humming all the while. Turning towards her newfound project Twilight took the time to analyze their work. As far as she can tell everything should be in working order. Of course, there were several factors she wasn't aware of. For one how would Its body react to the implants? Twilight wasn't confident nor was she the exact opposite. That alone implies an emotional capability that she lacked. However Twilight was sure that the experiment was a success.
Of course, there was only one way to find out.
"Ohh can I do it?!" Derpy grinned. Practically bouncing her hooves in excitement. Not seeing a logical reason as to why not Twilight nodded. Clearing her throat Derpy spoke. Her voice changed from its usually bubbly tone to uncharacteristically serious.
"Up."
For several long moments, nothing happened. That is until the now dead changeling slowly rose from her spot on the table. Her eyes were as white as the color itself.
"What is your mission?" Derpy asked. The thing that was once royalty took several seconds to respond, and when it did its voice no longer belonged to Chrysalis.
"To serve in our end goal."
"Good" Twilight nodded. Derpy however merely grinned.
"Welcome to the team."
Trixie sighed as she entered her home. Today was not a good day. Not only did she had to deal with inappropriate customers. Witch is the norm, but her boss is as well. Who unfortunately had a very bad migraine. Opening her pouch the blue mare looks inside. Only to sigh in disappointment at what she found. Before she could dwell on it further a voice spoke up.
"Honey is that you?"
Smiling Trixie quickly trotted towards the kitchen. Inside she found a white pegasus. A Pegues who had a toy box for a cutie mark. Said mare was busy working the stove, and from what Trixie could tell it wasn't gonna be anything good. At least in terms of taste. "Hey White" the unicorn greeted. A loving smile forming on her lips. White turned her head upon hearing her name. Spotting Trixie the pegasus squealed and flew over. Wrapping Trixie in a hug White plants several kisses on the unicorn's face. Trixie meanwhile took it without complaint. Doing so would risk ruining the mood.
"How was work?" White asked. The mare has gone back to her spot near the stove. Trixie sighed. Not wanting to talk about it in the slightest. Doing so would risk stressing out both of them. Especially White. Who had the rabbit of acting irrationally under extreme stress? Trixie experienced such a thing on their first date. The pegasus was all over the place. Talking about several different things at a speed the unicorn had trouble keeping up with. Thinking back on it caused Trixie to smile. Said smile turned into a frown as White repeated her question.
"It was okay" the unicorn answered simply. She hoped that in doing so she'll be able to cut that conversation short. Unfortunately White was seemingly obviously to Trixie's unwillingness to talk about the subject.
"Did anything interesting happen?"
The pony shrugged. "I guess you can say that." Immediately Trixie's mind flashes back towards a certain sweaty donkey. A donkey who for some reason couldn't keep his eyes away from her hooves. Not that Trixie honestly cared about that sort of thing. Business is business. She only wished that said business was a little more forthcoming with its bits. Especially after the canterlot invasion. Ever since then Celestia has doubled security near the border. Because of this taxes needed to raise for such a thing to be possible. Unfortunately, they had a habit of putting families out of their homes. Especially the ones living in low-income areas.
"Anything interesting happened to you?
White paused. An action that Trixie immediately took note of. "What's wrong?"
White sighed. Making sure to turn off the stove so the food wouldn't burn.
"The land pony came by today."
Trixie froze.
"He said that we have until next week to pay the rent." "That or risked another night sleeping in the streets." The unicorn shook her head. "That's not gonna happen.' White looked to the floor. A sad smile on her face. That's "What you said last time" she muttered quietly. That alone caused Trixie to flinch. Memories of the mare's earlier life flashed before her eyes. Shaking her head Trixie tried her best to sound confident. "That was then and this now." Trixie slammed her hoof. "I'm a changed pony you know that." White looked over at her. An unsure expression on her face. Seeing that look Trixie couldn't help but gulp. "What's wrong?"
White sighed. Looking up at her mare friend the pegasus asked the question that's been on her mind for a while.
"Are you cheating on me?"
Trixie flinched back as if struck.
"What?!" NO! Of course not"
Instead of responding White pulled out a note she had hidden under her wing. Handling it to Trixie. The mare took it in her telekinetic grasped. Looking at the cover Trixie's eyes went wide with shock. On the front of a paper was a name Trixie instantly recognized. It wasn't a name at all. It was more of a code. A code that Trixie and a select few knew the meaning of.
Dawn Star.
Opening its contents Trixie was greeted with only a set location and nothing more. Said location was outside of Hoofingtion. With that said the pony knew the area well enough. With that in mind, Trixie couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement course through her. Looking back at White Trixie lunged forward pulling the mare into a tough yet passionate kiss.
Upon noticing the pegasus"s confused gaze afterwords Trixie grinned. "I just got hired for a high-paid job!"
White gasped.
Her confusion and worry were replaced with excitement. "Really!"
Trixie nodded. After, words she pulls White into another passionate kiss. "It's a job I told you a while back." White blinked. Her expression turning once more into worry. "You mean the same job you refused to go into details about? Trixie nodded. In response, White nuzzled her mare friend gently. "Just be careful for me all right?" The unicorn nods. "Always."
"Good" White grinned. "Now I think this is caused for a little celebration don't you think?"
Trixie couldn't help but smirk.
÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷===÷
The cold night air sent chills down the unicorn's spine despite the use of her cloak. Regardless Trixie pressed onward. Fueled by the knowledge that this could be her lucky break. Especially considering the pony hiring her. The last last last time they required her assistance the job ended in a blood bath. Though the bits she was given afterward lasted her an entire year. With that in mind, Trixie was determined to see it through.
It didn't take long for the mare to arrive at the location. However, said the location was practically in the middle of nowhere. What made it even more worrisome was that it was currently pitch black. Of course, it wasn't anything Trixie wasn't use to, but still, the mare was definitely on edge. Taking a deep breath the mare's horn began to light up. It flickered several times in an unknown pattern. Once said the pattern was complete Trixie waited.
Seconds passed.
Than minutes.
Until eventually Trixie saw a flash of purple light in the corner of her peripheral. Turning her head Trixie saw one thing and one thing only.
Scales.
Purple scales to be exact.
Backing up slightly Trixie just barely managed to make out the dragonic features that belonged to none other than Spike the dragon.
"Hey Trixie" he smiled. Showing several sets of razor-sharp fangs. It also didn't help that his voice was insanely deep. Despite being only a teenager. At least in dragon years.
Ponies years on the other hoof.
"Hey, spikey" Trixie smirked. "Huh compared to the last time I saw you I think you got shorter."
Spike rolled his eyes. "Says the stripper."
"Says the overgrown reptile who still needs a toy doll."
"Says the lesbian who stayed in the friendzone for over 12 years."
Trixie opens her mouth.
Then closed it.
It was around this time that Trixie felt a tap on her shoulder. Turning around the mare comes face to face with a familiar grey pegasus.
"Here!" Derpy states giving Trixie a pink balloon. Said balloon was shaped like the little letter L.
"What am I suppose to do with this?" Trixie asked with a raised eyebrow.
The pegasus grinned. "Hold it!"
Before Trixie can ask anything further she felt a chill go up to her spine. A sensation Trixie was all too familiar with. Turning around the unicorn comes face to face with her employer.
Twilight Sparkle.
"Did you come alone?"
Trixie nodded. She already knew that when Twilight Sparkle asked a question you do the smart thing.
Your answer.
The mare merely stared at her in response.
"That is incorrect."
Immediately Trixie felt her throat tighten. Her mind instantly going into the worst-case scenario. All while the others merely stood and watched. Spike had a somewhat confused expression on his face. He didn't suspect Trixie to betray them so soon. If at all. Derpy on the other hoof merely hummed. Seemingly starring off into the distance. At least that's what it seemed like. Honestly, your guess is as good as mine.
"I did I swear!" Trixie shouted. Mere seconds away from full-fledged panic. Twilight merely raised a hoof. Silencing the younger unicorn. Trixie watched as Twilight started into the distance.
Until she suddenly lunged forward.
Trixie could do nothing but scream as Twilight violently shoved her back.
Only for an arrow to pierce the unicorn's skull.
Everything that happened next could only be described in one word.
Chaos.
Haven't an arrow pierce through your skull is not a pleasant experience. Furthermore, it could also very likely lead to your death.
That is if you weren't the infamous Twilight Sparkle.
As such it is categorized as a minor annoyance.
Yanking the arrow out of her skull Twilight blinked rapidly. Her mind is already in the stages of fully preparing itself. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean Twilight isn't currently vulnerable to attack. Because of this Twilight wasn't surprised in the slightest when an arrow pierced her chest.
Or would be if she was capable of such a thing.
The pony responsible had a victorious look upon his face. That didn't last long as Twilight horn pierced straight through his eye and into his skull. Effectively killing him near instantly. Yanking the blade out of her chest Twilight began to analyze the battle around her.
By her estimate, there are about nine ponies in guard uniform attacking them. Five of those ponies were preoccupied trying to take down her brother. Twilight concluded that it was a losing battle.
For them at least.
Spike's massive size, experience, and immunity to low-level magic were doing wonders for him in this battle. With this in mind, the mare glanced around for her other companion. Fortunately for him,r she needed to look in only one direction.
Up.
In the sky, Derpy hooves had no equal. At least in terms of agility. Said mare currently had her hooves dealing with two pegasi. Twins as far as Twilight can tell. One of the mares had a shooting star for a cutie mark. Regardless Twilight knew that Derpy did not need her assistance. At least not yet.
With that in mind that leaves only one pony in particular.
Trixie.
Said unicorn was currently in a spell battle with another unicorn. Both ponies were giving it everything they had. However, from the look on Trixie's face, it was safe to assume she had this in the bag.
Twilight blinked.
There were supposed to be nine ponies.
Her question was answered when a wall of flame collided with her skin. The sensation is something Twilight will never experience. Regardless the mare turned towards her new opponent. It was of course a unicorn. However, the said unicorn was large and red. Twilight hasn't seen a stallion of his size in quite a while. Regardless the two began to face off. With the Stallion's teeth gritted in anger.
"You know you can't stop me."
"Eyup."
"I presume that means your gonna try regardless."
"Eyup."
"Understood."
With that, the battle commenced.
The stallion threw another spell. This one being lighting instead of fire. A wall of purple magic surrounded Twilight. Shielding her from the attack. The stallion growled before disappearing in a flash of light. Twilight then chooses to drop her magical shield. Only to sidestep as a red hoof aimed itself at her backside. The purple unicorn tuns. Only to summon another shield. Just in time as his hoof was near inches from her face.
"Are you done?"
In response, the ground beneath Twilight exploded.
Said explosion sends the mare several feet off the ground. Only to fall back down as gravity retook control. Said decent was suddenly halted as magic envelops one of Twilight"s legs.
The red stallion grins before slamming Twilight into the cold hard ground.
Repeatedly.
With each blow, bones can be heard snapping out of place. Respite this Twilight never screamed. This alone disturbed the red stallion more than anything else. Slamming Twilight into the ground for the 19th time he stopped. Sweat having poured down his face in heavy amounts. Going over to the newly formed crater he pokes his head in.
Only for a large rock to hit him directly in the eye.
Roaring in pain the stallion took several steps back. As he did so Twilight slowly crawled out of the crater. Looking as if she went through twelve rounds with Mike Tyson himself.
Several of her bones were either misplaced or completely shattered. Her skin was either torn or completely missing in several places. Half of her face was beyond recognizable. If that wasn't enough a single eye hanging out of one of her eye sockets. To put it simply she looked as if she crawled out of Tartarus itself.
The red stallion glared at her. His left eye is now completely swollen shut.
"Give up."
In response Twilight"s body began to do what it did best.
It began to heal.
First, it was her bones. The stallion couldn't but cringe at the noise as several of them simply snapped back into place. Then it was her skin. Said skin began to regenerate rapidly. So much so that the stallion simply couldn't keep up. Once that was done all that was left was the eye currently hanging out of its socket. Reaching out a hoof Twilight simply tore out said appendage. Right before casually tossing it over her shoulder. The action alone made the stallion want to gag.
"Do you wish to continue?"
In response, the pony hurled another fire spell her way. Instead of summoning a shield Twilight merely created a portal. Said portal was directly behind the stallion.
Rolling out the way the red behemoth panted in exertion. It didn't take a genius to know that he was running out of stamina,
And fast.
Twilight however was the exact opposite. The way she stood told him that she wasn't tired in the slightest. As if reading his mind the mare spoke.
"I don't get tired."
With that Twilight began to walk.
The stallion growled as she came towards him. Once she was at a close enough distance he lunged. Only for his hoof to hit nothing but air.
Suddenly he felt a tap on his shoulder.
He turned.
Only to get a hoof in the face.
Or should have at least.
As soon as Twilight"s hoof made contact the stallion simply disappeared in a red mist. Upon realizing her opponent was merely a duplicate Twilight began to look around. However, despite her efforts, the stallion could not be found.
Then the Earth beneath her story to shake.
In response, Twilight looked down.
Big mistake.
As if on cue the stallion himself burst out of the ground. His hoof making contact with Twilight"s face. Causing her entire head to snap back due to the force. As such the mare was quite literally sent flying.
Shaking himself off the stallion glared at her prone form. Only to suddenly collapse due to magical exertion. "I can't give up" the stallion muttered quietly to himself. At that moment his mind flashes back to the promise he made to his little sister.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Big Macintosh stood on the doorsteps of his family home. In front of him were various members of his family. His two sisters as well as his parents and Granny Smith. Each one of them had sober expressions on their faces. "Do you have to go?" Upon hearing the question he nodded. His mother couldn't help but sigh in disappointment. That alone stung Big Mac's heart. However, he knew that his ma was proud of what he had become. "You better not forget what I taught you, you hear?" Granny Smith said sternly. Once again Big Mac nodded. Making sure to show a little more force so that Granny knows that he's not just doing it out of necessity. Upon seeing this Granny nodded. With that out of the way, his father stepped forward.
"Son I just want you to know I couldn't be prouder." Leaning forward he pulls Macintosh into an embrace. Big Mac of course returned the gesture. Joy filling his entire soul. While Mac knew his father was always proud of him, it was simply better to hear it from the stallion himself. The two Stallions of the household separated. Up next was AJ. Aj herself was not one for many words. In fact, unlike the rest of her family, AJ was born mute. However, that alone didn't mean she couldn't get her point across.
Upon seeing her gesture to bend down Big Mac did so. This caused Aj to press her forehead against his. Even though she couldn't speak Big Mac knew what she was trying to say.
Stay safe.
Nodding the stallion kissed her on the cheek.
"Eyup."
Aj couldn't help but giggle.
Finally, there was Apple Bloom. This mare was the kindest person Big Mac knew. It's no wonder the princesses themselves choose her to be the element of kindness.
Stepping forward Apple Bloom embraced him in a hug munch as their Father did. Mac for his part one more returned the embrace. "Promise me you'll come home" the mare whispered. Her voice taking on a pleading tone. Hearing this the older sibling closed his eyes. This was all but a moment before he planted a kiss on her cheek. In a way, the munch is similar to Apple Jack.
"Promise."
÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷
"It's over."
Looking up Big Mac saw Twilight standing over him. Her soulless practically staring into his soul. Trying and failing to get up Big Mac sighed.
"Eeyup."
"I assume you have a few last words?"
Big Mac nodded.
"If you get the chance tell a pony named Apple Bloom that I'm sorry." As if in thought Twilight"s gazed turned upwards. Big Mac on the other hoof kept his gaze to the ground. Immense guilt weighing itself in his soul.
It was quiet for several moments before Twilight spoke.
"You have a family?"
Big Mac nodded.
"Very well, if Apple Bloom and I were to cross paths in the future I shall deliver your message."
Big Mac sighed in relief.
Said relief was short-lived as a horn priced his skull.
=======================
Twilight Sparkle stared into the now limp form of her opponent.
"Hey, Twilight!"
Turning her head the unicorn saw Derpy and Spike approached her. With Trixie sprawled out of Derpy's back unconscious.
"Greeting."
"Who's that?" Spike questioned with a raise raised. His face was covered in pony blood. Looking back at her the stallion Twilight shrugged.
"No one important."
"What do we do now?" Derpy questioned. Starring at Twilight with the eye that wasn't sealed shut. In response, Twilight horn glowed. A second later a portal opens leading to their secret hideout. "What we did Derpy"
Looking back Twilight mimicked a smile that didn't reach her eyes.
"Try to save Equestria.
"There he is!"
Run.
"SHOOT HIM!"
Run.
"Buck I missed!'
Faster.
"Come here you little shit!"
Don't stop.
Gritting his teeth Spike turned. Attempting to lose his lose his pursuers under the cover of foliage.
It didn't work.
The baby dragon screamed as an arrow soared over his head. Turning around Spike let loose a small barrage of purple flame. Only for the said flame to be blocked by a magical force field. Turning his head back Spike suddenly spots a small cave in the distance. Realizing that it was his only hope Spike headed straight towards it.
"Gotcha!"
Spike jumped/rolled as a pegue swooped down from the sky. Unfortunately said Pegues missed the baby dragon by only a few inches. For her troubles, Spike unleashed another wave of flame straight towards her.
The mare screamed as the flames engulfed her. Only to fall out of the sky as her wings gave out.
Jumping into a stream the dragon glanced over his shoulder. Only to realize that the remainder of the group was still hot on his tail. Turning his eyes towards the cave Spike did the only thing he could.
He ran.
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Painting heavily Spike knelt. The baby dragon has run into the deepest part of the cave. Luckily for him, he finally managed to lose the ponies. Unfortunately, that only left the baby dragon without any food and water. As if on cue Spike's stomach growled. Looking around Spike saw nothing but rocks. Sighing the purple dragon pulled his knees against his chest. Lowering his head Spike couldn't help but wonder where everything went wrong. Just a year ago he was with his family. Spending the day eating gems and wrestling with his siblings.
At least until the ponies showed up.
Growling Spike clenched his fist. Memories of what happened to him and his family replaying themselves in his mind.
Screaming.
Begging.
Blood.
So much blood.
Spike screamed. Banging his head against the wall with enough force to knock him out cold.
Laughter.
The pain in his sister's eyes as the stallion began to thrust.
"NO!" Spike screamed. His claws digging deeply into his skin. So much so that blood began to drip down his wrist. Spike couldn't take it anymore. He just wanted it to stop. He just wanted it all to stop. What could be worse than this?
As reading his mind some pony chuckled.
Spoke froze.
Slowly the baby dragon cast a look over his shoulder.
Only to see three ponies staring right back at him.
"Well, well what do we have here?" The leader grinned. Spike could do nothing but stare in abject horror. In response, the ponies laughed. The very sound itself was twisted beyond belief, and yet despite this Spike couldn't force himself to move. What was the point? It wasn't like he'll make it any further than he has already. Plus he didn't have enough energy to produce another flame. All he could do was lower his head in defeat. Of course, that caused the ponies to laugh even more. "Aww doesn't worry your pretty little head" one of them cooed. Said pony so happened to be a mare with rotten teeth. "I'm sure you'll make this up to us somehow." With that, the mare slowly began to lick her lips.
Spike couldn't help but shudder.
However, before they could do anything more a sound is heard. Said sound slowly began to get louder and louder with every passing second.
"What the fu-"
The ground beneath them collapsed.
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Spike awoke with a gasp. It only took the dragon a second or two to realize that he was no longer in the cave.
Sitting up Spike began to look around.
He was currently inside a room of sorts. Or at least what he assumed to be a room. Said room was large. It aslo looked to be made entirely of wood. All except for Spike's bed of course. Other than that nothing in particular ut to him.
All except for the pony currently standing beside the bed.
Spike's eyes went wide.
"Your awake" the pony stated. Her voice was beyond dull. In reponse, Spike quickly stood. Taking in a breath the dragon let out a small wave of fire. Of course, said the wave was immediately blocked by purple magic. This only served to increase Spike's ever-going panic.
"Are you done?" The mare asked. Her expression being impossible for the young dragon to read. Not wanting to make things more worse for himself he nodded.
"Understood."
The mare's horn extinguished. As such the purple barrier simply disappeared. However, that did little to cure Spike's unease.
"Are you hungry?"
He blinked in confusion.
The mare simply stared at him in response.
When Spike didn't immediately answer her question she repeated herself. Her lifeless tornadoes do not change in the slightest.
"Are you hungry?"
Slowly Spike nodded his head. In reponse, a large yellow gem drops onto his lap. The baby dragon stared at it in shock. Looking back at the mare Spike said the first thing that came to mind.
"Why?"
"Are you not hungry?" The mare asked in response. Not wanting to stave Spike quickly shook his head. Afterward, the unicorn merely sat on her haunches. Not looking away from the strange pony Spike slowly began to eat. After the first bite, the dragon wanted nothing more than to shove the whole thing in his mouth. However, he refrained from doing so. Mostly because he knew by doing so he was likely to throw up. After all, he hasn't eaten anything in several days if not weeks.
Once he was finished the mare spoke up.
"Are you a slave?"
Spike froze at the question. His heartbeat increased as he realized that the mare might simply give him away to some pony else. Having taken note of his silence the mare spoke one word.
"Understood."
"What?' The dragon was extremely confused. In reponse, the mare simply offered him another gem. This one is a dark blue color. However, Spike merely shook his head. "I can't eat too much unless I don't wanna get sick."
"Understood."
Spike raised a brow. "Is that all you ever say?
The unicorn didn't reply.
The baby dragon rolled his eyes, and here he thought that dragons were antisocial.
Most of them anyway.
Suddenly the mare produces a bottle of water out of thin air. Taking said bottle Spike was quick to quench his thirst. Once he was done the mare took a step forward. Only for Spike to suddenly tense up.
"Your afraid" the mare noted.
Spike didn't reply.
"Those ponies are dead" the mare stated suddenly. Once more sitting on her haunches. Her emotionless gaze locked onto Spike's. It was almost as if she was searching for something. Whatever that was Spike didn't know.
"Good" the dragon stated coldly. His claws clenched in apparent anger.
"I killed them."
Silence.
Spike stared at the pony in shock.
The unicorn stared right back.
Clearing his throat Spike spoke. Confusion is evident in his tone. "Why?"
"Twilight."
Spike blinked.
"That is my name."
"Oh," Spike mumbled to himself.
Silence.
Having said enough Twilight got up to leave. Just before she made it to the door however Spike spoke up.
"I'm Spike."
Stopping only monetarily the mare nodded.
"Understood."
With that Twilight left the room.
Spike sighed. Laying his head back he stared numbly at the ceiling. At that moment Spike knew that his entire life just changed.
Whether good or bad that remains to be seen.
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"Twilight I found it!" Spike hollered. Running over to the purple unicorn Spike held up the flower for her to see. The dragon having spent over a month with the mare. Within that month Spike learned two things.
One she's immortal,
And two Twilight is insanely good at checkers.
Looking over her shoulder Twilight saw the flower he was currently holding. Taking it in her telekinetic grasp the mare looked it over. Upon confirming that it was indeed the flower they were looking for she looked back at Spike.
"Mission accomplish."
"Finally!" The dragon groaned. "I've been hungry for the past hour!"
"It has only been twenty minutes."
"That's not the point and you know it."
Twilight wisely chooses to simply let the subject drop.
Grinning the baby dragon began devouring his meal. Said meal consisted of unknown meat that Spike found enjoyable. However every time he asked Twilight about it the mare choose to ignore him. Regardless Spike took his sweet time savoring every bite. The purple unicorn herself however merely watched.
"You know that's creepy right?"
"affirmative."
Spike merely shrugged in response.
"Why did we waste time on that flower again?"
In reponse, the mare began inspecting it once more. "This flower has unique healing properties similar to myself." Spike raised a brow, but why do you need it of all ponies."
Upon hearing this Twilight looked him dead in the eyes.
"I don't."
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Spike whipped. The purple dragon was currently curled into a ball under the safety of his bed. The sounds of a battle ensuing echoing in his ears. Spike didn't know what happened. Everything was fine until Twilight woke up in the middle of the night. The mare wasted no time in shoving him under the bed. Once she did she told him not to come out until she gives the signal.
That was twenty minutes ago.
The sound of a pony roaring in pain made Spike flinch. However, he took solace knowing that it wasn't Twilight. After all the mare herself couldn't feel anything. That includes pain itself.
"I'M GOING TO KILL YOU!"
Spike screamed as a massive explosion shook everything around him.
Silence.
In that silence, Spike waited.
And waited,
And waited,
And waited some more.
Until eventually purple hooves revealed themselves from Spike's hiding spot.
"Twilight!" Spike shouted. The purple dragon crawled out from under the bed. Smiling he looked up. Expecting to see the dead expression he was all too familiar with at this point.
Only he didn't.
That's because it wasn't Twilight.
The mare standing before Spike was Somepony he saw before. She looked similar to Twilight in appearance. Not enough to be an outright sibling, but enough to know that she was some way.
"Where. Is. He."
Spike took a step back. This was because he saw utter madness gleaning in the mare's eyes. That and an unbearable sense of grief.
Upon receiving no answer the mare threw her head back and screamed. A second later Spike felt himself being lifted with magic. However, this was different. Instead of simple levitation, Spike felt like he was suffocating.
"WHERE IS SHIN-"
The mare's head exploded.
Spike soundless gasped. At that moment the magic around him vanished. Sending the baby dragon plumbing towards the ground.
He never made contact.
Open an eye Spike comes face to face with his apparent savior.
Twilight Sparkle.
Levitating the baby dragon onto her back Twilight stared unblinkingly at the corpse. Clinging to her neck Spike couldn't help but shiver.
"Who was she?"
Looking over her shoulder Twilight simply spoke two words.
"The past."
Author's Note
I just like to say that I thank you guys taking the time to read this story or any story I make in general you truly don't understand how much that means to me all I ever wanted was for somone to take the time to read something I make Unfortunately I thought that wasn't gonna be the case at least until now but with that being said I thank you once again and please point out any spelling I may have made or at least tell me your thoughts after all you guys are the reason that I keep going Alright I'm done being soft lol
We all have our demons
What is the opposite of weakness?
Strength.
No one knows this better than lord Tierk himself.
Looking over a vast green wasteland Tirek couldn't help but shake his head in disgust. The miniature will never Understand how these ponies live. Especially in an environment that creates one thing and one thing only.
Weakness.
Lord Tirek himself was born in a much more hostile environment. As was the way of his people. As such, they were both strong and extremely intelligent. One cannot simply rely on strength alone to survive. At least that's why his father told him.
Right before Tirek shoved a hand through his chest.
Thinking about it caused the minotaur to chuckle.
Tabarez was nothing more than a fool that grew weak with age. As such he was killed simply for becoming weak. Unfortunately, many of his kind didn't exactly see it that way. Especially considering that Tabarez was the leader of their tribe. Regardless Tirek was then placed in exile. Forced to live out his days simply roaming the jungle.
Or so they thought.
"Enjoying the view?"
Turning his head Tirek spotted the only person he considered a friend.
Scorpion.
The demon grinned while making his way over to him. Or at least Tirek assumed Scorpion was a demon. In truth, the minotaur hadn't the slightest clue what he was. He wasn't someone Tirek would classify as a minotaur.
Minotaurs didn't have wings.
Regardless Tirek couldn't himself to care.
Looking back over Equestria Tirek nodded. "It is time for them to know true strength." Chuckling Scorpion crossed his hands over his chest. "Now, now, don't forget our deal." In response, Tirek chuckled. "Ah yes, your uncontrollable desire to drink pony blood." Hearing this the demon shrugged. "Eh, it's not I was born this way, to begin with." Snorting Tirek raised a fist towards his direction. "Then let us begin our conquest in earnest.
Grinning Scorpion met Tirek's first with his own.
"Greetings."
Turning their heads in unison the duo saw something that caught them by surprise.
A pony.
A purple unicorn to be exact,
And looming behind her was a dragon of enormous size. Said size equaled to an entire school bus. Regardless of that fact duo couldn't help but laugh. In response, the dragon let out a large air of smoke with its nostrils.
"Who are you?" Tirek asked. At least after getting his laughter under control. Looking closer at the mare Tirek realized that she was wearing a hood. A white hood to be exact with flame streaks running across each of her hooves. Said flames seemed to move. Though Tirek couldn't care less about such detail.
"Leave." The pony answered simply. Her emotionless tone causing Scorpion to raise a brow, "And what if we don't?" The demon asked. His tone is sharper than a knife. In response, the dragon behind the pony began to laugh. Said sound quickly grew on Tirek's nerves.
"Then will simply make you" he stated. The ignorance in his tone was beyond apparent. The dragon looked as if he wanted to say more. However, the mare raised a hoof. Effectively silencing him on the spot. Seeing this Tirek chuckled. "Oh, truly how the mighty dragons have fallen. Said dragon began to growl. However, Tirek nor Scorpion was phased in the slightest.
"Leave." The mare repeated. Her face somehow being shrouded in complete darkness. Despite the sun being in plain view of all four of them. Regardless Scorpion took a step forward. Intending to slay both the mare and the dragon. However, Tirek held him back.
"I'll deal with this."
Shrugging Scorpion took a step back. In response, the minotaur took his place. Glaring at the two strangers Tirek spoke. "I don't know who you think you are, but regardless just know that you won't get to live long."
"Is that a threat?"
Tirek growled. "It's a promise."
"understood."
Suddenly and without warning Tirek is hit in the chest with purple magic. The force alone sends the minotaur straight into the wall of the cave and out the other end.
A moment later Tirek lands back first into a river. Growling the behemoth quickly rose to his feet. Just in time to see the pony land on the other side. Sounds of battle can be heard inside the cave. As well as a few bouts of flame here and there. Cracking his neck Tirek glared at his opponent. "You made a big mistake.'
In response, the pony lowered her hood. It was at that moment that Tirek saw none other than Twilight Sparkke standing before him. This alone caused even more rage to curse through his veins. This pony alone was responsible for turning his once-proud race into nothing but shadows of what they once were.
"You destroyed my people."
In response Twilight simply ignited her horn.
Tirek charged.
Screaming Tirek threw a fist. Determined to crush Twilight"s skull in one blow. The unicorn however simply sidestepped the attack. Which caused Tirek's fist to hit the ground instead. The force was enough to create a crater the size of Twilight"s head. In response, the mare blasted Tirek in the face. Causing the minotaur to stumble momentarily. Seeing this as a clear adventure Twilight began to follow up with several defense spells. Growling in both pain and annoyance Tirek charged. Unfortunately By the time, Twilight managed to react it was already too late.
Screaming in rage Tirek punches the mare square in the chest. Sending the purple unicorn flying. However, a second later Twilight disappeared in a flash of magic. Only to reappear behind her opponent. Grabbing his leg with her telekinesis Twilight sends the minotaur flying into the air. Only to teleport a second time.
Landing in a forest Tirek growled. Shaking some dirt off the minotaur began looking around.
Only for a giant tree to land on top of him.
Looking up Tirek spots the unicorn hovering in mid-air. Several trees held in her telekinetic grasp. Shoving the tree off of him Tirek stood. In response, Twilight began to bombard him with nature itself. Taking a deep breath Tirek let loose a beam of magic. Said beam either tore in half or destroyed the mare's ammo.
"IS THAT ALL YOU CAN DO?!" Tirek roared.
In response Twilight"s horn glowed brighter.
The ground beneath Tirek exploded.
Spitting out a piece of grass Tirek began to get back up. As he did so Twilight charged. Aiming towards his spine with her horn. However just as she got close enough Tirek turned. Grabbing Twilight by the neck he vicious slammed her to the ground.
Once.
Twice.
Three times.
Lifting a fist Tirek aimed it at the mare's face. Only for a barrier to appear at the last second. With a roar, he threw Twilight against a tree instead. The force behind said blow caused the unicorn's spine to snap. In response, the mare summoned two more barriers. Only this time they were both in front and behind Tirek. Suddenly said barriers shot forward. The speed was enough to give a certain blue pegasus a run for her money. Seeing this Tirek jumped. Causing the two barriers to collide with one another. However, before he can land back down a third barrier appeared over his head. Slamming into the minotaur with enough force to send him speeding towards the ground. Even after connecting the barrier"s momentum didn't stop. Snarling Tirek opened his mouth. Practically absorbing Twilight"s magic and adding it to his own.
Jumping out the crater Tirek glared at the two Twilight Sparkles.
Wait.
Before he can think on it further he's hit in the eye with an ice spell. Momentarily half-blinded Tirek stumbles back. Only to feel a sudden sharp pain behind his back. Looking over his shoulder Tirek saw a third Twilight Sparkle. A now-empty syringe was held in her mouth. Wrapping a hand around her throat Tirek squeezed. Only for her to disappear in a cloud of magic. Absorbing said magic he turned.
Only to get hit in the face with a boulder the size of a small house.
The force was enough to send him crashing into a nearby mountain.
The two Twilights looked at one another.
"Now."
"Understood."
One of them then disappeared in a flash of purple magic. Turning back towards the mountain Twilight waited.
She didn't have to wait long.
With a primal scream Tirek burst free. A second later a beam hits Twilight straight in the chest. Landing Tirek grabs the mare's just as she began to fly back. Headbutting the unicorn he was rewarded with a sickening crack. Throwing the mare into the air Tirek jumped. Putting his hands behind his head he then punched Twilight. Sending said mare crashing back to Earth. It was like watching a literal bullet.
Landing back down Tirek breathed.
Something felt wrong.
He could feel it in his bones something was weakling him. The memories of the false Twilight with the syringe flashed in his mind.
Her fault.
Tirek growled clenching his fist.
"What did you do to me?'
As if answering him the ground around Tirek began to explode.
He jumped. Not willing to risk getting caught into the blast. Just as he did so a purple blur shot out. Hitting Tirek directly in the chest.
The two were sent colliding into at least a dozen trees.
Landing Tirek rolled onto his feet. Only to collapse as pain exploded in his entire body. Twilight on the other hoof merely snapped several bones back in place. Including her neck.
"What is happening?" Tirek coughed. Looking at his hand he saw something he hasn't seen in years.
Blood.
His blood.
Twilight for her part didn't answer.
"ANSWER ME!" Tirek roared.
"It is illogical for me to do so."
Tirek charged.
The mare ducked under his punch. However, his knee caught her straight in the chin. Nearly snapping it in half. In response, her horn stabbed Tirek directly in the eye. Roaring in pain the minotaur began to stagger back. As he did so Twilight snapped her jaw back into place. Breathing heavily Tirek spoke.
"So you made me sick so what?! You still won't be able to defeat me."
In response, the unicorn merely looked over his shoulder.
"It wasn't my job to kill you."
"Wha-"
Tirek suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder.
Turning around he saw the person he trusted the most.
Scorpion.
Said demon grinned at him. His eyes turning into literal hellfire."
"It's nothing personal."
Just as Tirek opened his mouth Scorpion sank his claws into his chest.
Hitting him directly in the heart.
Upon seeing the rage mixed with betrayal on his face Scorpion chuckled. "Look it wasn't my idea, but your old man quit sold his soul for your death." Shrugging Scorpion yanked his claws out of the minotaur's chest.
Taking Tirek's heart in the process.
The minotaur cursed the scorpion"s name before collapsing onto the ground. Blood begins to ooze from his chest, and In that precise moment
Lord Tirek was dead.
Looking over at Twilight Scorpion grinned.
In response Twilight simply held out a hoof. All while Spike landed behind the trio. Looking no worse for wear. Of course, this is because no battle between him and Scorpion was fought in the first place.
Upon seeing Twilight"s hoof Scorpion chuckled. "Alright fine, but I have to ask what do you want again?"
Not missing a beat Twilight spoke.
"The power to transfer souls."
White Flower was not one to break the law.
So imagine her shock when several ponies in guard uniform stormed her house. That, and being forced to wear a paper bag over her head. When it was all said and done White suddenly found herself in a place she never thought she would be in.
The castle dungeons.
Confused and outright terrified the pegues began to scream. Of course, that did little to help her current situation. However White didn't know what else to do. If only Trixie was here. The unicorn was smart. Way smarter than White. At least when it came to her current situation.
Suddenly the door leading to her cell opened. A pony entered. said pony caused White's eyes to go wide with shock.
That's because the pony standing before her was none other than the princess of the night herself.
Luna.
Of course, said alicorns did not look the same as they did 2000 years ago.
For one she grew larger. Almost matching up to Celestia in terms of height, and two?
She was missing a wing.
Upon seeing her White bowed immediately. Luna however merely looked at the pegasus. Her gaze is cold. So cold in fact that White immediately began to shake in fear. Her heart beating so fast that it echoed in her ears.
"Where are they?"
Luna's voice was hot. It sounded as if the moon princess was gonna snap and kill the pegasus herself. Her remaining wing began to twitch ever so slightly, but enough to let White know that she was in trouble. Hesitating briefly the pony spoke.
"I don't know what-"
"DON'T LIE TO ME!" Luna screamed. Her voice practically shaking the walls of the cell. Raw power began to emanate from the princess. Causing White to panic even more.
"THOU THINKS I'M STUPID?! I KNOW WHAT'S GOING ON I KNOW THE TRUTH!"
White screamed. Covering her ears the mare began to violently shake.
"That's fine" Luna spoke. Her voice transforming from borderline psychotic rage to calm and collected. Turning away suddenly the mare began to walk out of the cell. Just before leaving, however, she cast a glance over her shoulder.
"Try not to break."
With that, the door slammed shut.
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The sound of the door opening caused White to awake from her slumber. The mare barely had enough time to get up before a hoof landed on her face. The force was enough to send the pegasus crashing against the wall. Looking up White saw a light purple unicorn standing over her. Said unicorn had a sadistic grin on her face.
"Hello!" The mare chirped. "My name is Starlight Glimmer and I shall be your torturer for today."
Upon hearing this White blinked in confusion.
"I don't understand," the mare said slowly. In response Starlight horn light up. A second later the sound of a bone snapping in half echoed in the dungeon.
White screamed. A fresh wave of tears began falling from her face as she clutched her back hoof. The pain was intense. It was something that White experience only once in her life, and that was when she and Trixie were living on the street.
"Do you know what's the fun thing about magic?" Starlight asked. The mare was currently inspecting her hoof. "It means that I do all sorts of things to ponies while limiting the risk of them dying in the process."
"Please stop!" White sobbed. The pegues clutching her hoof in pain. Starlight merely smirked. "I will, that is if you choose to answer my questions correctly." Leaning down Starlight stared White in the eye. Her expression morphing into a sneer.
"Where. Is. Twilight. Sparkle."
"I don't know! White wailed. In response, Starlight smiled. The smile itself show cashed the hatred and insanity the mare hid underneath.
"Wrong answer."
Starlight"s horn light up.
The Pegasus's wing snapped in two.
White began to scream.
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"You put your right hoof in!"
Stab.
"You put your right hoof out!
Slice.
"You do the hokie pokie and you shake it all about!
Giggling Starlight wiped her brow. Before she was the body of White. Said mare was currently hanging off on the de union wall. Being held up by the large nails embedded in her hooves. After at least an hour of torture, the mare became nothing more than a mumbling mess. She was either calling Trixie's name or begging for the deranged unicorn to stop. Unfortunately, that only made Starlight incense her efforts.
After a short moment of rest, Starlight began healing her wounds.
"You know I just gotta ask" the mare began. Her tone was conversational as she violently pulled White from the wall. In response said mare screamed in utter agony.
"Just who exactly is Trixie?"
No response.
"Eh doesn't matter" Starlight shrugged. "After all we both know is that you're the one helping out Twilight Sparkle." Letting a bag over to her Starlight then pulled out a picture. Said picture was of two mares.
One white herself,
And two a purple mare she saw before in her life.
In said picture White had her hoof around Twilight"s shoulder. The other hoof however was busy holding up the camera. The pegues had an utter goofy expression on her face. Twilight meanwhile didn't even acknowledge the camera. The mare is seemingly preoccupied with something in the background. As such her head was angled away from the camera. Her horn lit up with magic as she cast an unknown spell.
"Does this jog your memory?"
In response, White shook her head. The mare not having enough energy to do or say anything else.
"Your a tough one I'll give you that" Starlight stated. She then grinned as two stallions entered the cell. Said stallions wore yellow jumpsuits. Both were earth ponies who looked to be closely related. "Witch is why I asked for some help." With a nod, Starlight gestured towards the broken pegasus. "She's all your boys!"
Looking at one another the stallions grinned.
White screamed as one of the Stallions pierced her from behind. However, she didn't scream long as another stallion shoved his stick inside her mouth. Both Stallion's grunted in pleasure as they began to move. Starting slowly the stallion from behind proceeded to go in and out. Not being one to rush. The other stallion on the other hoof began at a rapid pace. A tounge sliding out as his as he trusted. White began to scream around his rod. Tears falling from her eyes as she gagged.
Meanwhile, Starlight watched on. The mare couldn't help but laugh. She laughed so hard and so much that she needed to regain her breath. In the mare's mind, she felt no guilt. She didn't feel much of anything Except sadistic satisfaction, but the unicorn felt another emotion. An emotion that burned hotter than the flames of Tartus itself.
Vengeance.
Vengeance for the death of her brother.
Vengeance upon the pony named Twilight Sparkle.
"Ugh, I think I got pegasi feathers stuck in my teeth."
"Again?
"Yup."
"That sounds Unfortunate."
"You're telling me!"
"Says the one who keeps getting her head stuck in the cabinet."
"You don't have to be mean!"
Trixie groaned.
Opening an eye the blue unicorn sluggishly glances over towards the sound that the voices were coming from.
Only to scream as Derpy was near inches from her face.
"Hi!" The pegasus waved. An overly cheerful grin on her face. "It's about time you woke up!"
Trixie merely blinked. Her mind still trying to piece everything there. Suddenly memories of last night came flooding in.
Widening her eyes in shock Trixie shot up. Unintentionally head-butting Derpy in the process. This caused both mares to shout in surprise. Rubbing her forehead Derpy gave the unicorn a mean-spirited expression. Witch for her meant sticking her tounge out in Trixie's general direction.
"Your awake."
Looking over Trixie saw Twilight standing off to the side. She was of course accompanied by Spike. The overly large dragon was trying and failing to get pegasi feathers from between his teeth.
It took a second for Trixie to figure out what all this meant, and when she did her expression turned into one of horror.
"WHITE!"
For a brief moment, Spike and Derpy glanced at one another. however, that ended when Twilight Sparkle herself stepped forward.
"She's dead."
W-what?" Trixie questioned. The unicorn had trouble processing the mare's words. In response Twilight paused. However, it wasn't long before the mare continued speaking. "After the guards were dealt with I sent Spike and Derpy to your house". "I deemed this a logical conclusion since the guards that attacked most likely knew where you resided."
Suddenly Twilight"s horn lit up. Said action caused Trixie to immediately tense up. A second later a small brown box appeared on Trixie's bed.
"This is all they found."
Trixie stared.
It was a long moment before the unicorn reached out and took the box in her hooves. Opening said item with her magic Trixie looks inside.
The mare immediately regretted doing so.
Inside said box was something Trixie was not prepared for.
A feather.
Said feather was white. However, that wasn't what caught Trixie's attention. No, it was because of one fact and one fact only.
It was covered In blood.
Gently lifting it with her magic Trixie silently stared at it. The mare was currently going through a whole herd of emotions. Shock, sadness, regret, however, one emotion quickly rose to the top. An emotion Trixie hasn't felt in a long, long time. An emotion that can only be described in one word.
Rage.
THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT!
Suddenly and without warning Trixie lunged at the purple mare. Wanting nothing more than to rip her apart until there was nothing left. Twilight for her part stayed motionless. Almost like she was expecting this type of scenario ahead of time. Screaming in rage Trixie's horn glowed.
Only for something grey to collide with her instead.
Hitting the wall hard Trixie was momentarily stunned. At least until a Christal-shaped hoof pressed itself against her throat. This was quickly followed up by a familiar voice. However, it was different. More firm, serious, and worse of all?
Insanely protective.
"Don't. Touch. Twilight"
Trixie froze.
The rage she was feeling mere moments ago instantly vanished. In its place was something Trixie was all too familiar with.
Fear.
Looking directly into her eyes was Derpy. However, said pegasus looked different. Let's just say if looks could kill Trixie would have most likely have died in the brutalist way imaginable.
Witch in Itself was pretty mild in comparison.
Igniting her horn Trixie tried shoving the mare away from her. Only to suddenly feel extremely weak. Of course, it didn't take long for her to notice Derpy's glowing hoof. A glow that was similar to that of her magic. Suffice to say it didn't take Trixie long to piece everything together.
Somehow, someway Derpy's hoof was absorbing magic.
Or to put it more bluntly her magic.
"That's enough" Twilight spoke. The mare having apparent this moment to intervene.
"Yeah, Derpy we can't just kill her." Spike shrugged. "At least not when she can be even remotely useful."
Derpy didn't even acknowledge the duo. Instead, she simply chooses to stare Trixie directly in the eyes. A tactic that was unnerving to the unicorn, to say the least. "I'm only gonna say this once and only once" Derpy stated. Sounding like a completely different mare at this point. So much so that Trixie briefly wonderd if she had any alternate personalities that she wasn't aware of. After all, she never saw the pegasi act like this before. Even when fighting her enemies.
"If you ever intentionally hurt Twilight or Spike" the mare paused. Letting the threat simply speak for itself. Not wanting to find out what the mare had in store Trixie nodded.
"Good"
The pegasi then let Trixie fall to the ground. The blue unicorn immediately began gasping for air. Smirking to herself Derpy flew over to Twilight. Putting a protective wing over the unicorn's shoulder. Twilight merely gazed at the pegasi for a few short moments. Spike meanwhile felt completely left out. At least until Derpy flew over and planted a kiss on his cheek.
"Hey! The dragon shouted. He immediately began rubbing his cheek in an attempt to hide his blush. Of course, that only caused Derpy to giggle.
"Aww your so cute!"
"I am not cute". "I am the exact opposite of cute."
"Uhuh" Derpy merely rolled her eyes.
"I am!" Spike shouted. The dragon throwing his claws up in exaggeration.
This of course started a small argument between the two.
Twilight meanwhile walked over to Trixie. Said mare was now deadly silent. Tears pouring down her face. Looking down at her Twilight spoke. "I am not going to pretend that I know what you're going through."
Trixie didn't respond.
"Nor am I going to say that I care."
The blue unicorn immediately began to glare at her. Hatred mixed with rage clearly showing in her eyes. Not phased in the slightest Twilight continued. "You have two options."
"One you can stay here and mourn for the rest of your life."
Trixie opened her mouth.
"Or two you can take revenge on the mare that killed her."
Trixie froze.
Twilight waited.
Memories of the past began to flood Trixie's mind. However, one memory, in particular, stood out among the rest.
The day they first met.
÷÷÷÷÷==÷÷÷÷========
Trixie shivered. The filly not having anything that can remotely be of use to her. Especially when dealing with a sudden rainstorm. The filly spent a majority of the day pick-pocketing unsuspecting ponies. At least until the guards found her. Fortunately, she was able to escape. Unfortunately, the colts and fillies she was accompanying weren't so lucky. Regardless the filly knew that her chances of seeing them again were slim to none. That was somewhat of a bummer to the blue unicorn. Especially since she rather liked the group. Especially the two mares that she quickly made friends with. What were their names again? One started with an L while the other started with a B.
Suddenly thunderstruck. Causing the filly to jump in surprise. Shivering Trixie began looking around for any form of shelter.
"Hey!
Blinking Trixie glanced over her shoulder. There she saw a pony sticking her head out of the dumpster. Said pony looked to be a filly around her age. Sticking a hoof out the filly gestured for Trixie to jump in. Not wanting the spend another second in the freezing rain the unicorn took her offer.
Jumping in Trixie watched as the filly closed the lid. Once she was done the area around them was covered in darkness however Trixie was able to make out her savior's shape.
"What's your name?"
Trixie blinked. Having been somewhat caught off guard by the question. "I am the Great and Powerful Trixie."
In the dark, she heard the pony giggle.
"Really? My name's White Flower."
"Interesting."
Silence fell between them.
However, it wasn't awkward. Quite the opposite. With that being said the silence was broken when the filly noticed Trixie's shivering.
"Here."
A second later The unicorn felt a wing wrap itself around her. The sensation was something entirely new to Trixie. With that being said the filly couldn't help but inch closer.
When White noticed this she let out another giggle. "You look pretty for a unicorn."
Trixie couldn't help but smile.
"I know."
÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷
Taking a deep breath the mare nodded. Her face was now filled with determination. The mare knew she couldn't fix the past, but she'll be damned if she lets White's killer walk away scot-free. Especially considering the amount of pain the pegasus must have been under. Seeing this Twilight nods.
"Very well."
With that, she turns. Gesturing for Derpy and Spike to follow the duo began making their way out of the room. Trixie watched them leave. She waited until they were out of earshot. Once they were Trixie did the only thing she could at that moment.
She began to cry.
÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷======
"You know I almost feel bad for lying to her."
When both mare's looked over at him Spike shrugged.
"Almost."
Derpy shook her head. An irate expression on her face. It was clear to both of them that the pegasus have yet to forget about the incident that transpired moments before. "Who cares? It's not like she'll live long anyway.
"Our objective is complete" Twilight spoke. In doing so she immediately gained the pair's attention.
"Now it is time to enact phase two."
Death.
Death was many things. Cruel, unforgiving, the list goes on, but above all else, there was one word that death wasn't.
Predictable.
Or maybe it was. Maybe death was looming over them this whole time. Watching, waiting, hungering, regardless Apple Bloom started into the still form that once called itself her brother. Taking note of every little detail as possible. Everything from the night guard armor he wore, to the large gaze that was wrapped around his head.
Dead.
Her brother was dead.
Beside the young mare was her family. All of whom had various expressions on their faces. Most of whom showed heartache and utter despair in one form or another.
Dead.
Her brother was dead.
Humming a soft tune Apple bloom pulled her little sister who's Walls filled the near defining silence around them into an embrace.
Dead.
Big Mac was dead.
Looking over at their parents Apple Bloom could tell that they weren't fairing any better. Ma clung tightly to Papa. Tears falling freely from her face, and yet no sobs escaped the mare's lips. Instead, she gazed longingly into the casket of her now dead colt. Wanting nothing more than to embrace the once strong stallion one more time, and yet
She couldn't.
Something held her back from doing so. A force that gripped her heart so tightly it felt like she was about to suffocate. She wasn't the only one who felt this way, but regardless no pony around her dared to speak. At least not while not in front of the one they loved and cherish so dearly.
Looking over at her father Apple Bloom could tell that the old stallion was barely holding it together. However, unlike the mare, he held in his grasp his expression was hidden under the confines of his hat. While she saw no tears the way his body shook told Apple Bloom everything she needed to know.
Dead.
Her big brother was dead.
Cradling her sister Apple Bloom bent down to whisper words of comfort into the filly's ear. She knew doing so would solve nothing, but if there was one thing Apple Bloom hated more than anything it's seeing her little sister cry. As she did this the mare cast a glance at the old mare next to her.
Granny Smith stood tall. She didn't cry, didn't sob, didn't shake, the only thing she did do was stare into the casket that held her nephew's corpse. An expression that was a mixture of fondness and grief in her eyes. Even with this in mind, there was a small genuine smile on her face.
Dead.
He was dead.
Upon hearing a pony clear their throat Apple Bloom turned. Only to see the last pony she wanted her or her family to talk to right now.
Princess Luna.
The goddesses of the moon looked a little out of it. Apple Bloom could tell that something weighed heavily in her mind. Not that she particularly cared at the moment, but the mare had a feeling that it involved her brother in some way. Perhaps the sole reason that leads to his death in the first place.
"Are you ready?" The princess asked softly. Her gaze showing nothing but compassion sympathy.
Dead.
The one she loved was dead.
Apple Bloom smiled kindly and nodded. Upon seeing this the princess smiled back. After a moment she gestured for the mare and her family to take a seat.
********
"Good evening mares and gentle colts"
Luna paused.
Looking around the goddess took note of every pony in the room. Each of them stared back at her with a look of expectancy. Signing Luna cleared her throat.
"We've come here today to honor the loss of a great stallion." "This Stallion was strong, kind, gentle, and most of all had a strong sense of justice."
There were murmurs of agreement, some even chuckled.
"The stallion known as Big Macintosh was unlike most ponies I met in my long life." Luna smiled slightly. However, said smile looked forced. Something that Apple Bloom took note of.
"He was unique, special in a way that I have difficulty putting into words." The forced smile on the alicorn's face faltered slightly. Along with a flash of something in the mare's eyes that only a few ponies were able to pick up on.
Regret.
"When I first met him I knew right away that souls like him are once in a lifetime, so with this in mind I immediately made him the caption of the Lunar guard."
After a moment a tired sigh escaped her lips.
"I've hoped that in doing so it will help him reach his full potential, but instead I fear that it merely played a part in his downfall."
Silence.
All eyes were glued to the mare that stood before them. A look of shock and confusion on their faces.
All expect Apple Bloom.
Looking over at her Captain's corpse Luna's expression turned sorrowful. The princess couldn't help but ponder over the memories the two shared. While their interactions were brief, Luna couldn't help but personally connected to the stallion in a way she couldn't explain. Perhaps he was a reincarnation of a soul she met earlier in life. Or perhaps the impression he left her stood out as one of a kind. Regardless her heart ached with loss. An emotion she only felt a few times in her long life.
Looking back at the crowd Luna spoke, voice grim.
'There are many different types of evil in this world, types that are so wicked and deranged that they had little to no place in the history books."
Luna paused before shaking her head. A knowing look in her expression. "I fear that Macintosh met the kind that I helped create."
Silence.
No pony said a word.
In response, Luna smiled grimly.
"Thank you all for coming."
*******
The mare figured that catching some pony like the princess alone to talk wasn't going to be easy. At least not without having guards present during the whole conversation. Munch to Apple Bloom's surprise it was Luna herself who asked to speak in private. The young mare for her part agreed. Fast forward sometime later and we have Apple Bloom heading towards the meeting place that the two agreed upon. While on her way the mare accidentally bumped into a pony. Having been lost in thought.
"Oh im sorry!" Apple Bloom gave the pony an apologetic smile. The pony in question whose facial features were hidden underneath a hood merely waved a hoof.
"It's no problem that one is on me."
The voice belonged to a mare. That munch Apple Bloom was sure of. Even with that said she couldn't help but ponder the mare's choice in clothing. Even if it did consist of what looked to be a robe of some sort. Without that said, however, this month was the beginning of fall so she didn't think much of it.
Suddenly the pony before her gasped. A second later Apple Bloom had a hoof pointed towards her direction.
"Aren't you the element of kindness?!"
The mare blinked at the question before answering.
"Yep, that's me!"
Apple Bloom grinned. As she did the mare suddenly felt very light-headed. So much so that she found herself losing balance. Luckily the pony in front of her was quick to come to react. Just as Apple Bloom began to fall a pair of hooves stopped her just in time.
"Yikes! Are you okay?!"
Apple Bloom grunted before shaking her head. As she did so the mare felt the dizziness fade. Only to be replaced with a new sensation she couldn't quite explain. With this in mind, she wasn't exactly confident in getting to her destination. At least not without the risk of falling on her flank.
Or worse.
As if reading her mind the pony spoke up. The mare's voice was gentle and kind. Something that Apple Bloom was immediately drawn to for some odd reason.
"If need assistance im more than willing to help."
Apple Bloom smiled.
*******
"Now I found myself questioning why I shouldn't do it."
The nameless mare beside Apple Bloom nodded her head in understanding. For some time now the two have been walking around and talking. Well, Apple Bloom did most of the talking. The mare beside her on the other hoof merely listened. Despite only knowing the pony for a short time Apple Bloom felt a strange kinship blossomed between them. As such the mare felt comfortable enough to give the pony some details about her life. As well as venting out her frustrations regarding the princess and her brother. However, the more Apple Bloom talked the more comfortable she felt. Not only that, but the mare soon found herself unable to remember where they were headed off to in the first place. Luckily her newfound friend kept her on track.
It wasn't long before the pair arrived at the meeting location. Said place was an old church that's been around ever since the founding of Ponyvile itself. Memories of going to said church and praying to a certain moon God came to the Orange mare's mind. Reminding her of a life she will never be able to regain.
"You know what's funny?"
The voice of her newfound companion drew Apple Bloom back to reality.
"What's that?"
When the mare spoke there was an odd sense of humor in her voice. Like she was seconds away from bursting into a fit of laughter over a joke no pony else knew but her.
"Ponies and even so-called gods find themselves dancing to a familiar tune whether they like it or not." "Instead of just living life and becoming whoever you want to be you ultimately waste your time by worrying about the small things."
Apple Bloom raised an eyebrow, confusion written all over her face. A small part of her told her to get away from this pony. However, that was all but ignored. After all, they were friends, weren't they?
"Small things?"
The hooded mare chuckled.
"Morals, good and evil, right and wrong it's always about the limitations you put on yourself and others, a distinction that does nothing but holds you back from becoming your true self."
Apple Bloom paused.
There was a sense of growing despair forming itself inside the mare's stomach. Not only that, but every other part of her screamed at her to run, to flee while she's still able and never look back. In the back of her mind, Apple Bloom knew that something was wrong with the pony that stood before her. With this in mind, she wanted nothing more than to do as her body commanded her. However, there was only one problem.
She couldn't.
Something, some invisible force held her at bay. What made it even worse is that a part of her didn't want to leave. Why would she? The mare was her friend after all. Friends stick together no matter what.
Apple Bloom gripped her skull. Varies thoughts and emotions collided with one another. Battling for control within her mind.
Dead.
He's dead.
Friends forever!
He's never coming back.
She's one of a kind!
He loved you.
Overwhelmed Apple Bloom did the only thing she could think of.
She screamed.
Apple Bloom sighed.
"What is it?"
In response, the mare turned her gaze upwards. Her expression was one of a mare who was slowly losing her patience.
"I'm tired."
The pony beside her started a knowing yet tired look on his expression. He knew what she was going to say. It was something that was brought up when the pair was able to spend alone time together. Not that she didn't understand the mare's frustration. He did, but this wasn't exactly a walk in the park for him as well. Still, they both knew that they couldn't keep this up for much longer. Not if they wanted to run the risk of being found out at least. At the same time, he wanted to cherish the moment they had together. Moments of just the two of them alone without having to worry about the six prying eyes around them.
"Mmhm."
Apple Bloom bit her lip. Feeling a soreness between her back hooves that the mare was all too familiar with. It served as a reminder of the two shared moments before.
"I'm sick of sneaking, hiding, feeling ashamed for what im putting my family through every time I walk through that door."
The stallion remained silent. Choosing to simply let her voice out her frustrations instead of getting in the way.
"I'm tired of living two double lives all while under the roof of my very own home."
Apple Bloom sniffed. This caused the stallion to perk up. The room around them was dark, too dark. As such he was unable to see the mare's expression. However, judging from the sound of her voice he assumed that she was on the verge of crying. This alone caused the stallion's chest to tighten. Not because she was crying even though that did play a part. No, it was because he had a feeling that what she said next played a crucial part in their relationship.
Her vision blurred due to tears Apple Bloom spoke. Pain and regret made themselves known through the young mare's vocal cords. She didn't want to do this. She didn't, but at the same time, she wasn't an ignorant filly anymore. His words back then could no longer bring comfort to the conflict that was brewing in her heart. Maybe if things were a bit different they could have been together,
But they weren't.
"I'm sorry i-i just can't do this anymore, I just can't."
The words themselves weren't easy. It was one of the hardest things Apple Bloom had to do since becoming the element of kindness. However, that alone wasn't what broke her. No, it was the words he used next that the mare will never forget.
"I understand, but Apple Bloom I just want ya to know that I love ya always have and always will, and I don't mean that in a way that involves our family."
In the darkness that concealed both ponies, the massive stallion did the only thing he could.
He smiled.
******
"Apple Bloom?!"
A hoof gently shook the prone Earth pony. Groaning the orange-coated mare opened her eyes. Only to finch upon the brightness that was the world around her. Dazed and confused Apple Bloom struggled to make sense of the current mess that was her mind. Try as she might the mare had difficulty in remembering what exactly transpired beforehand. However, all that came to mind was a gut-wrenching feeling that the mare couldn't quite explain.
"Apple Bloom?"
Upon hearing her name being called the element of kindness turned her head. In doing so she spotted a mare. Or to be more exact the current priest that runs the church.
Not much is known about her. Having only arrived in Ponyville six months ago. Having managed to become a priest of the Moon church not soon after. Not much is known in regards to who she was beforehand. At least not to the public. However, friends of the mare have stated somewhat uneasy that her foal hood wasn't a walk in the park. With that said in terms of personality, the pony was pleasant to be around. She was kind, respectful, level-headed, and very forgiving. It also helps that the mare herself was extremely attractive by pony standards. This alone was quite useful in getting some stallions as well as a few mares into the church.
Upon realizing who exactly it is that stood over her Apple Bloom blushed. Both in embarrassment as well as seeing the mares beautify up close. The way her mane swayed in the wind was almost enticing to watch. It wasn't long before Apple Bloom found herself unable to look away.
At least until the mare, herself spoke. Her voice was soft, sweet, easily being able to melt even the coldest of hearts.
"Are you okay?"
Cerulean-colored eyes met a pair of dark orange ones.
Apple Bloom gulped. Feeling as if her throat was dryer than the Solaris desert.
"I-im fine thank you."
After the words left her mouth the mare tried and failed to get her back on her hooves. Seeing this the pony or Night mother as she is called by the church went over to assist.
"You seemed deeply troubled."
Night's mother stated after helping Apple Bloom to her hooves. The pony in question shook her head in an attempt to clear her thoughts. Looking back over at the munch older mare Apple Bloom smiled.
"I'm fine, too many knots wrapped around the noggin as Granny Smith would say." Night Mother nodded her head in understanding. However, there was still a worried look in her gaze. "Perhaps you need some time to collect your thoughts, with that said the church of our moon goddess is always open for those in need."
Apple Bloom paused.
At the mention of Moon goddess memories of what occurred at her brother's funeral came to mind.
Luna.
She needed to talk to Luna.
Now.
"I thank ya for the hospitality but I came for answers, not rest."
By the time the mare was able to formulate a reply, Apple Bloom was already out of earshot.
*******
Luna stood stall while looking over the small town of Ponyville. As she gazed down at the town and its citizens she felt two different emotions. One was pride. The moon goddess couldn't help but feel amazed at what her subjects have accomplished. Thanks to the three tribes coming together four thousand years ago they managed to achieve greatness. Gone was the weak prey species that could do nothing but argue and bicker among themselves. In its place was a powerful combined force that rivaled even their greatest of enemies. Even the mighty chaos god Eris fell before them. Of course, united or not no pony can stand against a being near complete omnipotence.
That's where the elements come in.
Born from ancient magic so old that time itself was a mere concept around its creation.
Honestly.
Kindness.
Laughter.
Generosity.
Loyalty,
And magic.
Combined these elemental concepts create a force so powerful that the gods themselves stand little chance against them. Eris being the literal embodiment of chaos itself is a prime example. The old trickster god with a morbid sense of humor was now nothing but a stoned statue. Doomed to be forever aware of her surroundings but unable to do so much as a breath.
Truly a fate worse than death.
Unfortunately as powerful as the elements are they have one flaw. That flaw is being only able to function on beings with ill intent.
A flaw that in the end caused the princess to be both disturbed and deeply confused.
The sound of hoof steps approaching broke Luna out of her thoughts. Even with that said the alicorn didn't bother to tear her gaze elsewhere. Instead, she merely addressed the pony standing behind her.
"So thou decided to seek answers after all."
No response.
Luna for her part didn't look surprised at the lack of communication. No, she expected something like this to occur ahead of time. Apple Bloom wasn't the first pony she dealt with in this manner after all. This was something that Luna had been dealing with ever since the purple demon first struck.
"I meant what I said before, your brother was special, unique, you don't come across ponies like him very often."
Silence.
"Ah, right you come for answers not praise for a sibling that's no longer with us."
Nothing.
Luna let out a long tired sigh. She hoped to at least avoid the topic for a little longer, but alas fate had other plans. "Very well I shall at least make this short."
As she said this Luna gazed down at three ponies. A mother, father, and their two foals. The way the group moved and acted towards one another told her that they were a good family. This made the supposed god smile. At least for a moment. With that said she knew she had a story to tell.
"Long ago after the three tribes came together and defeated the mad god there was a mare." 'The mare in question already had a loving husband and a foal named Shining Armor, even with all this in mind she wanted more."
Luna shook her head, regret and shame plastered all over her face.
"So one day the mare was in the middle of giving birth, only something was wrong very, very, wrong."
Briefly, anger flashed all over the alicorn's face.
"Regardless I choose to interfere, in doing so I helped give birth to a being never before seen in Equestria." 'This thing, this abomination operates on a level we cannot possibly comprehend."
Luna paused, only for a moment. When she spoke her voice was filled with anger and malice.
"She killed other ponies! Wiped out entire races! And you know what's the scary part?!"
Apple Bloom didn't reply.
Luna sneered. Her eyes burned with hatred so deep that they resembled a never-ending abyss.
"WE DON'T KNOW WHY!"
The sound of her very voice caused the entire building to shake. This alone caused every pony in the area to look on in fear. The family that Luna saw earlier quickly made their way out of the area. A look of fear crossed their faces.
"We don't know why" Luna repeated. This time the princess sounded eerie calm. Her facial expression went from a mixture of rage and hate to an expression of a pony who had seen it all.
"She feels nothing, no hate pain, sadness, regret, love, nothing."
"Then why?"
Her voice was kind, soft, patient, it was munch more than Luna deserved.
The moon princess sighed.
"truthfully? We can only assume that he got in the way, after all, I was the one that sent him after her."
Silence.
Luna waited.
What exactly? For the pony behind her to do one of two things. One was straight up attacking her. A futile attempt but she would allow the mare to get a few hits in. The second was to scream her head off. A situation not as common as the first. Regardless the princess was more than willing to accept the consequences of her actions, and so she waited,
And waited,
And waited some more.
Finally, after a long moment, Luna turned her head. Half expecting to come face to face with a shocked and enraged Apple Bloom.
Nothing.
The pony that was seemingly behind her before was now nowhere in sight.
Luna sighed.
Knowing that she possibly doomed all Equestria due to her incompetence Luna could do nothing but stare off into the distance.
However, unknown to both the princess a pair of eyes watched her every move. Having both seen and heard the conversation between the princess and the trusted element barrier. Eyes that belonged to a pony who had nothing but ill intent.
*******
"It would be easy she said not that deep she said".
Grumbling under her breath the pony continued digging. Of course, being a unicorn she used her magic rather than her hooves. Still, the mare found the task of unburying a corpse not that amusing. She munch preferred slitting the throats of her enemies. Or colts, a lot of colts.
Upon hitting something solid the mare grinned. Well, well, it looks like her hard work is about to pay off.
"I got a joke," the mare told no pony in particular. Glee just oozed from her tone.
"What's big, red, dead, and is about to be used as a literal zombie."
Opening the casket the pony peeked inside.
Only to see the body of Big Macintosh laid out before her. Nightguard armor covers his entire body.
The mare grinned.
"A pony whose fashion sense is compared only to his corpse!" The mare laughed. The sound echoed throughout the night.
