The Savior of Equestriaby Sapphire-StoneChaptersChapter 1 - From the Ashes...He Cometh...Chapter 2 - Awakening in a Strange LandChapter 3 - Unraveling ThreadsChapter 4 - Fragments of TruthChapter 5 - The GuardianChapter 1 - From the Ashes...He Cometh...[World P.O.V] The sky erupted with fury as the sky lit up with flashes of lightning. The citizens of Ponyville run to their houses as the roaring sounds of what can only be described a raging war in the sky. The wind billows throughout the town, breaking trees and toppling houses with a mighty, haunting howl. "Everypony, get into the castle as quickly as you can!" Twilight yells, running through the streets, helping those she can out from any rubble and debris. The static electricity in the air buzzed with an unnatural hum, the wind swirled in a central location in the town square, a small tornado formed from the dirt and debris of the now destroyed town hall. Lightning coursed through the tornado like a raging hurricane. Finally, a single giant lightning bolt surged inside the eye of the tornado, and from it; a human emerged...and fainted. [Twilight's P.O.V] As I saw the creature emerge from the lightning bolt, my eyes became like pinpricks. I ran over near where the creature appeared, my horn fully charged and ready to blast it if it meant any harm. As my vision focused on the form of the creature, it started to waiver and stumble, soon falling on it's side and seemingly passing out. As soon as he did, the storm almost immediately ceased and calmed down. I sighed, and turned my head towards the castle. "Everypony, get inside the castle and barricade it shut with anything you can find!" I yelled to the ponies that I helped earlier, hoping to keep them from any danger this creature could pose. With my horn still charged, I walk slowly to the creatures passed out form. "What are you?" I asked, not getting any answer. As I got to it, it looked like it was still breathing weakly. I slowly walked a few more steps towards it, just barely three hooves away from it. "Okay..." I breathed, dispelling my magic. "Seems like you're safe...for now..." I trailed, looking around. "Let's get you somewhere safe...for all of us." I said, using my magic to levitate him a few inches off the ground. "One of the unused barns at Sweet Apple Acres should be a safe enough place to see what this thing's intentions are." I whispered to myself, trotting towards the farm. [World P.O.V] I took a few minutes for Twilight to pretty much drag the 6 foot 1 tall human to the farm. Weighing over 245lbs, he wasn't the lightest thing in the world, so he was slid half way on the ground so Twilight wouldn't have an aneurysm trying to lift something that heavy. Twilight finally got to the door of Applejack's humble abode, and knocked 3 times with the back of her hoof. A southern voice soon followed the aforementioned knocks. "Be there in a jiffy!" She called, hoofsteps could be heard swiftly approaching the door. The door opened quickly, almost with urgency. "Oh, Hi Twi!" She said, a warm smile donned her lips. "What can Ah do ya for?" She asked. Twilight chuckled a little nervously. "Hi, AJ! You wouldn't mind if I used one of your unused barns, would you?" Twilight asked in a polite urgent and serious tone. She then moved aside to show Applejack her "cargo". "What in tartaraus is that?!" Applejack exclaimed, jumping back a bit. "This another one of yer science experiments?" She questioned. "You know that mah barn ain't for that kinda thing!" She voiced sternly. Twilight sighed. "No, it's not that. It's...from the storm earlier." She said, looking back at the human. "It just...appeared from a lightning strike, I just want to make sure it's intentions are good before allowing it to wake up in the middle of a half destroyed Ponyville." Twilight said, looking at Applejack with pleading eyes. Applejack sighed, lowering her head and closing her eyes. She thought on the matter for a bit before finally deciding her choice. "Alri' sugarcube, but we need to at least tie it up first! I don't want no giant, hairless monkey freakin' out and trying to hurt us as soon as it sees us!" She said sternly. Twilight nodded. "Agreed." ~A little later~ [Isaac's P.O.V] The last thing I remember before waking up in some random barn is something that'll change my life forever. I was in my house playing some new games I bought for my PC, when all of a sudden the sky became dark. "What the hell?" I said, getting up from my computer chair, and looking out my window. Dark clouds, near black swarmed the sky. Everyone in the suburb flocked outside to check out what's going on, puzzled voices and scared kid cries could be heard in the deafening quiet of neighborhood. I look to my clock on my end table by my bed, just behind my desk. "2:45PM" I say to myself, looking back outside. "This is impossible! It looks like night time!" I heard someone say. Just then, however, lightning struck from within the clouds, orange and red lit the sky. "Heat lightning, maybe?" I say to myself, opening the window. "Hey, you guys should get back inside, I just saw some lightning not to far from us!" I called to the other families. But just before I shut my window, a flash of red tore through my vision as a bolt struck just four feet in front of me. The sound that followed damn near split my ears, making them ring and causing me to fall over. As I opened my eyes, another strike filled my vision with orange and red, like police lights in different colors. This time, I felt a slight pain in my whole body...then...nothing. Everything went numb as I closed my eyes. I waited for something to happen; like sound to come back, but nothing. I waited more, for my vision to come back...still nothing... ... ..... ...... 'OKAY COME ON NOW!' I screamed in my head, getting fed up. 'Am I dead?! Unconscious?! In a coma?! The fuck's goin on?!' I once again yelled in my head, or...wherever I was. Just before I was about to try to yell again, an impossibly bright light flowed into my "vision". Then, a voice spoke, coming from everywhere. "Your answers will be found in the place where the Giant's Sphere is hidden..." The voice echoed withing my entire being, it was majestic and terrifying. "To find the Sphere, you must find yourself...to find yourself, you must find the fragments...good luck, Chosen One." The voice echoed once again. I tried to ask it what it meant before I heard thunder, followed by a bright light. After the light died down, there was a small purple unicorn with a horn staring at me. My eyes grew wide, then darkness filled my vision once more and I passed out. Author's Note Sorry if the final half of the chapter felt rushed, my brain has a hard time typing out what I see for the chapter, and its even harder to make it clear as to what I see in my head when its late :p But it's the only time I get to write! (ALSO MORE Ali and Sean chapters are on their way! Just trying to make sure everything's as consistent and comprehensible as possible! :D) Chapter 2 - Awakening in a Strange Land[Twilight’s P.O.V] The barn was dim, illuminated only by slivers of light filtering through the gaps in the wood. I had placed the creature on a pile of hay, carefully ensuring it was comfortable. Applejack was pacing nearby, her expression a mix of concern and skepticism. “Are ya sure it’s not gonna wake up and go on a rampage?” she asked, eyeing the creature warily. “I don’t know, AJ,” I admitted, glancing back at the creature’s still form. “But the storm seems to have calmed down, and I don’t sense any immediate danger. We should give it a chance.” With a soft sigh, Applejack approached the creature's unconscious form, her hooves crunching softly on the hay. “Well, Ah reckon it’s the least we can do. But Ah swear, if it starts throwin’ things or screamin’ at us, Ah’m outta here.” I chuckled lightly, trying to ease the tension. “Fair enough. Just be ready, okay?” As we stood there, the sound of distant thunder rumbled, reminding me of the chaos that had just unfolded outside. The citizens of Ponyville were likely still recovering from the storm, and I felt a pang of responsibility for their safety. “We need to check on everypony soon,” I said, turning to Applejack. “But first, let’s see if it wakes up.” [Isaac’s P.O.V] Light pierced through my eyelids, warmth flooding over me like a gentle tide. I slowly opened my eyes, blinking against the brightness. As my vision cleared, I found myself in a rustic barn, surrounded by unfamiliar scents and the gentle rustling of hay. “What the...?” I muttered, sitting up abruptly. My heart raced as I took in my surroundings. I was no longer in my house; the last thing I remembered was that storm—those strange, flashing lights—that voice. “Easy there, big fella!” a voice called, drawing my attention. I turned to see two figures: a purple unicorn with a dark-indigo mane, a pink and purple stripe and a sturdy-looking earth pony with a wide-brimmed hat. Both looked at me with a mixture of curiosity and caution. “Who are you?” I croaked, my voice hoarse. “Where am I?” “I’m Twilight Sparkle, and this is Applejack,” the unicorn introduced, stepping forward with a reassuring smile. “You’re in Ponyville, and you... well, you fell from the sky.” I raised an eyebrow, struggling to piece together the bizarre situation. “Fell from the sky? You mean, like, literally?” “Yes!” Twilight nodded enthusiastically. “A lightning storm brought you here. We’re still trying to figure out how that even happened.” She brought her hoof up to her chin in thought. Applejack shifted uncomfortably, her gaze flicking to the door. “We thought it best to bring ya here until we knew what to do. Yer not hurt, are ya?” I rubbed the back of my head, feeling a dull ache. “Just a headache. What exactly are you? You’re... not from Earth, are you?” Twilight exchanged a quick glance with Applejack, her expression serious. “You’re not in your world anymore. You were transported here—somehow. And we need to understand why.” A wave of confusion washed over me. “Transported? I just want to go home.” The weight of reality settled heavily on my shoulders. “And what do you mean ‘not in my world anymore’?” “You're in Equestria,” Twilight said gently. “We’re ponies, and this is our home. You’re safe here, but we need to understand what happened.” I felt a mixture of fear and curiosity bubbling inside me. “Okay, then. So...how do we figure this out?” [Twilight’s P.O.V] “First, let’s get you some water and food,” I suggested, gesturing to the small kitchenette in the once renovated corner of the barn. “You must be hungry after whatever ordeal you just went through.” As I turned to prepare something, I felt Applejack’s eyes on me, a silent question hanging in the air. I could sense her apprehension about him. “He seems harmless, AJ,” I reassured her quietly. “But we need to keep our guard up until we learn more.” I said, glancing at him quickly. “Yeah, Ah know,” she replied, her voice low. “It’s just… we don’t know what this means. What if he’s connected to that storm somehow? What if he intentionally caused it?” I nodded, the weight of uncertainty settling in my chest. But I had to believe in the goodness of others, even if they were different from me. As I brought over a cup of water and some apples, I once again glanced at our new arrival, who was staring at everything in wonder. “Here you go,” I said, placing the items in front of him. “Take your time. We’ll figure this out together.” I smiled warmly. He looked up, his expression softening. “Thanks... I appreciate it. I just hope I didn’t bring trouble with me.” “Just take a breath,” I said, offering him a reassuring smile. “You’re not alone in this. We’ll find the answers.” "By the way..." He said, taking a bite of his apple. "My name's Issac, it's nice to meet you two!" He said, washing down the bite with some water. Though, as he took a sip of the water, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the storm had been more than just a freak occurrence. There was a connection—something deeper that tied our worlds together. I just hoped we could figure out exactly what the connection was before it was too late. Chapter 3 - Unraveling Threads[Twilight’s P.O.V] The barn felt warmer with the late afternoon sun filtering through the cracks, but a chill settled in my bones. Isaac was recovering, but the question lingered in the air: why had he fallen here? The storm outside had faded, but the storm inside me was only beginning. “Thanks for the apples,” Isaac said, his voice steadier now. “I’ve never tasted anything like this.” He grinned, the worry in his eyes slowly lifting. “Glad you like ‘em!” Applejack replied, leaning against a wooden post. “They’re the best in Equestria, if Ah do say so myself.” I watched them interact, feeling a cautious optimism. Perhaps the more he learned about us, the more he could help us understand his presence. “So, Isaac,” I began, choosing my words carefully. “Do you remember anything from the storm? Anything unusual?” Isaac furrowed his brow, the playful spark in his eyes dimming. “Just... flashes of light, and then a voice,” he said, his tone growing somber. “It kept calling to me. I thought it was just my imagination, but then...everything went white and...everything's fuzzy after that.” “Wait...a voice?” I exchanged a glance with Applejack. “What did it say?” “It said; "Your answers will be found in the place where the Giant's Sphere is hidden...To find the Sphere, you must find yourself...to find yourself, you must find the fragments." but I don’t know what it means! What's the Giant's Sphere?!” he replied, frustration creeping into his voice. “It just doesn’t make any sense!” “I see...” I said gently. “We'll need to investigate further. There might be something in the library that can help.” “Will it explain what the fuck the Giant's Sphere is?” Isaac asked, curiosity igniting in his eyes. “I don't know...the library is full of books, guides, and references about all kinds of things,” I explained, shrugging. “Maybe we can find some clues about how you got here, or at the very least, about this 'Giant's Shpere'.” Applejack pushed herself off the post. “Well, let’s not waste time then! If y’all are headin’ to the library, Ah’ll come with ya. Two sets of eyes are better than one.” She said as she tipped her hat back into place. Isaac nodded, determination coursing through him. “I’d appreciate that. I want to figure out how to get back home...or at the very least, figure out what hell is going on!” Issac said, getting to his feet. [Applejack’s P.O.V] As we made our way to the library, I couldn’t shake an unsettling feeling that settled in my stomach. Isaac seemed genuine, but there was something about his arrival that felt like a storm waiting to break (No pun intended). The town was still buzzing with the aftermath of the wild weather, and I couldn’t help but worry about what else might be lurking 'round the corner. Once we arrived at the library, I watched as Twilight moved through the seemingly infinite rows of bookcases, her horn glowing softly as she pulled books from the shelves. “This might take a while,” she said, her voice almost a whisper as she examined the spines. “I’ll look for anything related to dimensional travel or storms.” Isaac wandered around the room, his eyes wide with wonder. “You have so many books! Back home, I barely had any!” he marveled, running his fingers over the pages of an open tome. I stood a bit apart, watching them. “Somethin' ain't right...” I muttered to myself, feeling the weight of my instincts. There was still a part of me that was wary, that couldn’t help but question why—or even how—he had come here in the first place. “Found something!” Twilight called out, breaking me from my thoughts. She opened a thick book, pages fluttering. “It talks about a phenomenon known as a ‘class-5 dimensional rift’. It usually appears during intense magical events, like storms. It says that when a rift opens, it can pull beings from one world into another.” Isaac leaned in, his expression intense. “So that’s what happened to me?” “Possibly,” Twilight replied, flipping through the pages. “But it also mentions that these rifts can be unpredictable, and in many cases, unstable. They may close just as quickly as they open, and not all beings can return home easily.” A pang of concern shot through me. “So he might be stuck here?” I said, glancing at Isaac, who was looking increasingly worried. “Not if we can find a way to reverse it,” Twilight said, her determination clear. “We just need to gather more information.” Suddenly, the air grew heavy, a distant rumble echoing from the sky. We exchanged uneasy glances. “What was that?” Isaac asked, his eyes wide. “It sounded like thunder,” I replied, stepping closer to the window. “But the storm’s over. There shouldn’t be any more—” Before I could finish my thought, a blinding flash lit up the room, and the ground shook beneath us. Books fell from the shelves, and I caught Isaac as he stumbled. “What’s happening?” he shouted, panic in his voice. “Stay close!” I yelled, my heart racing. The last thing I wanted was for him to be hurt. Twilight steadied herself, her magic flaring in response to the chaos. And then, as suddenly as it began, the shaking stopped. We all stood in stunned silence, the library now filled with the sound of settling books. “Something’s not right,” Twilight said, eyes wide. “The rift... it might be destabilizing.” “Destabilizing?” Isaac echoed, his face pale. “What does that mean?” “It means we have to act fast,” Twilight said, urgency creeping into her voice. “We need to figure out how to stabilize it before it causes more trouble.” I could feel the weight of the moment pressing down on us, the realization that the storm had not just been an accident—it was a thread connecting our worlds, and we were tangled in it. “Let’s get to work,” I said, rallying my thoughts. “We’ll find a way to send you home, Isaac. But we’ll need all the help we can get.” As the three of us focused on the task ahead, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the storm was only the beginning of something much larger—a challenge that would test our resolve and, possibly, our friendship. Author's Note Oooookay, this took WAAAAY too long to write and WAAYYY too many google searches for "big words"...Usually I try to keep a more lax and/or kinda loose-ish writting style. But for this, I wanted it to feel more cinematic and all around a story that will REALLY pull you in...Dont worry though not ALL my stories will look/read like this, but I wanna REALLY do this one justice! :3 Hope you enjoyed (please lemme know of any spelling errors I didn't catch in my draft :p) Chapter 4 - Fragments of Truth[Twilight’s P.O.V] The air in the library pulsed with urgency as we combed through the books, desperate for answers. The sudden tremor had left a lingering tension, like the calm before another storm. I could feel it in my bones—the rift was not just a phenomenon; it was a warning. “Let’s split up,” I suggested, flipping through a tome that detailed various magical anomalies. “If we each focus on different sections, we might find something quicker.” Isaac nodded, his determination rekindled. “I’ll look for anything about the Giant’s Sphere. It has to be connected to all of this.” “Applejack, you could check the history section,” I added, knowing her practical mindset could lead to insights about any past incidents. “Sometimes ancient events can shed light on the present.” “Got it,” she said, adjusting her hat with a determined smile. “Ah’ll see what Ah can dig up.” As we scattered across the room, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of urgency pulling me in every direction. I delved into a book about rifts and their properties, scanning the lines for anything that might help stabilize the one threatening our world. But as the minutes ticked by, the words began to blur. My thoughts kept drifting back to Isaac—his fear, his uncertainty. What if he couldn’t go back? I pushed the thought aside and focused on the task at hand. We needed to protect our home first. [Applejack’s P.O.V] I wandered over to the dusty history section, the smell of old parchment filling the air. I ran my fingers along the spines of the books, each one a treasure trove of stories waiting to be uncovered. “C’mon, you can do this...” I muttered to myself, pulling a hefty volume from the shelf. The title read "Echoes of the Past: Equestrian History and Magic". Flipping through the pages, I stumbled upon a chapter detailing strange occurrences during storms, tales of lost travelers and rifts. One story caught my eye; a tale of a sphere that had appeared in the middle of a similar storm, allegedly created by the giants of old. “Could this be it?” I murmured, tracing the illustration of the sphere. It was massive, adorned with strange symbols that seemed to shimmer off the page. Grabbing some parchment and a quill, I quickly jotted down notes, my heart racing at the connection. Maybe we weren’t just looking for a way to stabilize the rift; we were searching for something much more significant. Suddenly, a loud crash echoed from the other side of the library. “Twilight!” I shouted, sprinting towards the sound, my heart pounding. [Isaac’s P.O.V] As I rifled through a stack of books on dimensional travel, a feeling of dread washed over me. I was alone, surrounded by the silence of ancient knowledge, and yet I felt anything but secure. The mention of the Giant’s Sphere kept repeating in my mind like a mantra. What if it really held the key to my return? Then I heard it—a low rumble, echoing through the walls, followed by the unmistakable sound of something heavy crashing. My heart raced as I dashed toward the noise. “Twilight! Applejack!” I called, fear threading through my voice. I found them standing over a fallen bookshelf, its contents strewn across the floor. “What happened?” I asked, rushing to help them clear the mess. Twilight’s eyes were wide, scanning the chaotic scene. “The rift is reacting to something! We need to hurry!” Her voice trembled with fear. As we worked together to right the shelves and collect the scattered books, I caught sight of a glimmer beneath the rubble. Curiosity piqued, I reached down and pulled out a small, glowing shard, pulsating softly in my hand. “What is that?” Twilight gasped, eyes fixed on the object. “I don’t know, but it feels… powerful,” I replied, energy radiating from the orb. “Could it be connected to the Giant’s Sphere?” “Let me see it!” Twilight said, her magic reaching out to inspect the shard. As she focused her energy, the light began to swirl, revealing symbols that mirrored those in the illustration Applejack had found. “This is incredible!” Twilight exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “These symbols… they might be fragments of the spell matrix we need to stabilize the rift!” “Then we can fix this!” I said, hope surging through me. “We can get me home.” But just as the words left my lips, the library shook again, and the shard flared brightly. The air crackled with energy, and I felt a surge of something—fear? Power? I couldn’t tell. “What’s happening?!” Applejack shouted, grabbing my arm. “We need to control it!” Twilight said, her voice steady but urgent. “If I can channel its energy, it might be enough to stabilize the rift!” I nodded, feeling the weight of our combined determination. Closing her eyes, she formed a pulsing magic circle and channeled her magic into the shard, the symbols glowing brighter with every pulse. As she focused, I could feel the rift’s chaotic energy pushing back, like a wall of wind pushing it's way toward her. A surge of uncertainty buzzed around us. “Hold on!” I shouted, my voice straining against the intense pressure. And then, in a flash of blinding light, everything fell silent. The air felt still, as if the world was holding its breath. [Twilight’s P.O.V] The light enveloped us, and for a moment, I felt untethered, as if I was floating in a vast expanse of stars. But just as quickly as it began, it faded, and we found ourselves back in the library, the orb now dim and cool in Isaac’s hands. “What just happened?” I asked, panting slightly. “I think… I think we reached it,” Isaac said, eyes wide with realization. “This fragment is part of something bigger—a connection to the Giant’s Sphere.” As we gathered ourselves, I knew this was only the beginning. The storm had unleashed more than just a rift; it had opened a path to ancient truths long hidden. And as I looked at my friends, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. We were in this together, and we would face whatever lay ahead. “Alright....let’s find the Giant’s Sphere,” I said, a determined smile breaking through the tension. “We’ll figure this out...together!” As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting shadows through the library, I had a feeling that we were racing against time. The battle may have been won, but the war was just beginning. Author's Note Another chapter, another crisis averted...for now ;) Also..fear? power? Maybe Issac is in for a real fun treat soon (tm) ;) Chapter 5 - The Guardian[Isaac’s P.O.V] As the last rays of sunlight filtered through the library’s windows, I felt a new urgency. The fragment in my hand pulsed softly, reminding me that we were on the brink of something monumental. “So, what’s our next step?” I asked, glancing at Twilight and Applejack. Twilight placed a hoof on the table, her brow furrowed in concentration. “We need to gather more fragments. If this shard is part of the spell matrix, then others must exist. They could lead us to the rest of the fragments to the Giant’s Sphere.” “Any idea where we might find them?” Applejack asked, her tone practical. Twilight nodded. “There are legends about hidden fragments scattered across Equestria. Some are tied to ancient sites—places where powerful magic once thrived.” “Then we’ll need to split up,” I suggested, adrenaline pumping through me. “The sooner we find them, the sooner we can get me home!” “Hold on a minute!” Applejack interjected. “Are you sure it’s safe to be wanderin’ around? What if that storm has left somethin’ else behind?” I paused, weighing her words. “You’re right. We need to be cautious. But we also can’t waste time.” Twilight interjected, “How about we stick together for now? We can create a plan based on what we find, and then divide to cover more ground.” “Alright, that works for me,” I agreed, feeling a sense of excitement growing within me. “Let’s figure out where we should start looking!” [Twilight’s P.O.V] As we planned, I pulled out a large map of Equestria. “There are several ancient sites that might be worth investigating,” I said, tracing my hoof over the parchment. “There’s the Crystal Empire, the Everfree Forest, and the ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters.” “Castle of the Two Sisters?” Isaac asked, his eyes widening. “What’s that?” “It’s where Princess Celestia and Luna ruled before they moved to Canterlot,” I explained. “It’s steeped in history and magic, and many believe it holds remnants of their power.” “Sounds like a good starting point,” Applejack said. “What about the others? Are ya sure they could be of any use?” AJ asked, putting her hoof to her chin. "Ah mean, nothin' like that ever showed up when we've been to those places in the past, 'cept the Crystal Empire..." She trailed. "That place is full o' crystals, won't they all look the same?" “Well, the castle is our best shot to find another fragment. The Crystal Empire, however, will be a lot tougher to find anything for that exact reason. We can save that one for last.” I replied, feeling a surge of confidence. “Honestly, If we can find even one more fragment, we’ll be one step closer to getting Issac home....hopefully.” “Then it’s settled!” Isaac declared, hope filling his voice. “Let’s head to the castle!” He exclaimed, a smile donning his lips. As we prepared to leave, I couldn’t shake the feeling that we were being watched. A shiver ran down my spine, but I brushed it off. We had a mission, and I needed to stay focused. [Applejack’s P.O.V] We made our way to the outskirts of Ponyville, the air still crackling with remnants of the storm. I couldn’t help but keep a vigilant eye on our surroundings. “Stick close, y’all,” I cautioned, glancing back at Isaac. “We don’t know what else that storm might’ve stirred up.” “Got it,” Isaac said, a hint of nervousness creeping into his tone. I could see it in his eyes—he was out of his element, and this world was a far cry from whatever he was used to. As we reached the edge of the Everfree Forest, the trees loomed tall and shadowy, their twisted branches creating an ominous barrier. “This place gives me the creeps,” Isaac muttered, eyeing the forest warily. “Yeah, it can be a little spooky,” I admitted, stepping ahead. “But we’re in this together. Just remember, if anything jumps out, stay behind me.” Twilight nodded in agreement. “We should stay alert. There are creatures here that are not friendly.” We ventured into the forest, the air thick with mystery. Each sound—the rustling leaves, the distant hoots of owls—heightened my senses. We moved cautiously, weaving between the ancient trees. Suddenly, a low growl echoed around us, sending chills down my spine. “What was that?” Isaac whispered, his voice barely audible. “Keep calm,” I urged, scanning the darkness. “It could be anything. Just remember—stay close!” I emphasized the final part of my warning, hoping it was just a timberwolf. A figure darted between the trees, too fast for me to see. My heart raced as we pressed onward. 'Okay...so NOT a timberwolf! That thing was like nothing I've ever seen before!' I thought as my eyes narrowed. I turn towards Issac and Twi. “We need to find that castle and fast!” I said, urging us forward. [Isaac’s P.O.V] The deeper we went, the more I felt the tension in the air. “This place is intense,” I said, trying to mask my apprehension. “Are there really creatures that could hurt us?” “Yeah, based on how Applejack just sounded,” Twilight replied, her voice steady. “But we’ll be fine if we stick together.” As we continued, the forest began to thin, revealing an ancient stone pathway and the low growling ceased around us. “This must be the way to the castle,” I said, my excitement bubbling beneath the fear. We followed the path, and before long, the silhouette of the Castle of the Two Sisters emerged in the distance. Its towering spires and crumbling walls exuded an aura of forgotten power. “There it is!” I exclaimed, my heart racing. As we approached, I felt a strange energy thrumming through the ground beneath my feet. “This place is alive with magic,” I whispered, my voice filled with awe. “Yeah, but let’s not forget the dangers,” Applejack reminded us, keeping her guard up. “We need to be careful.” [Twilight’s P.O.V] The castle loomed closer, its ancient stones whispering secrets of the past. “We’ll search the main hall first,” I suggested, feeling the excitement building within me. “It’s likely where the most significant magic is concentrated.” Pushing through the crumbling entrance, we stepped into the grand hall. Dust particles danced in the air, illuminated by beams of sunlight streaming through broken stained glass windows. The atmosphere felt charged, as if the very walls held memories of long-ago battles. “Stay close,” I reminded the others. “We don’t know what we might find in here.” I said, looking around cautiously. "It's been some time since I was here last..." I trailed. As we explored the hall, I noticed a strange shimmering light emanating from the far end of the room. “Over there!” I pointed, moving toward it with a mix of hope and trepidation. As we drew closer, the light pulsed and flickered, revealing a circular pedestal at its center. “What’s that?” Isaac asked, his eyes widening. "I don't know, that wasn't here before." I said as I approached cautiously, and as I reached the pedestal, I could feel the power radiating from it. “This could be where the fragment is hidden,” I said, excitement bubbling within me. But as I reached out to touch it, a loud roar echoed through the hall, shaking the ground beneath us. The doors slammed shut, and shadows danced in the corners. “Get back!” I shouted, positioning myself protectively in front of the two. From the darkness emerged a creature—a towering beast with glowing eyes and jagged claws, its growl reverberating through the hall. “What in Equestria is that?!” Isaac exclaimed, his fear palpable. “It’s a guardian of the castle,” I realized, feeling the weight of our predicament. “We need to defend ourselves!” With my heart racing, I summoned my magic, preparing for the battle ahead. We were here for the fragments, and I wouldn’t let anything stand in our way. “Get ready!” I called to Applejack and Isaac. “We’re going to have to fight!” As the creature lunged toward us, the glow of the fragment pulsed in rhythm with my heartbeat, and I knew that this was gonna be a tough battle. [Isaac’s P.O.V] The creature loomed before us, its menacing form blocking the only exit. Adrenaline surged through me as I instinctively stepped back, but Applejack was already in position, her stance firm and unwavering. “Twilight! What do we do?” I shouted, glancing between the beast and my new friends. “We can’t just stand here!” “We need to distract it!” Twilight replied, her voice steady despite the chaos. “Applejack, you take the left! Isaac, you—” “Right! I’ll flank it!” I interjected, my mind racing as I recalled various video game strategies. With a nod from Twilight, we split into our positions, each of us aware of the stakes. The guardian growled again, its glowing eyes fixed on us, muscles coiling like a spring. Just as I moved to the right, I felt a surge of courage swell within me. This wasn’t just about survival; it was about finding those fragments and getting home. As Applejack charged forward, she called out, “Hey ugly! Over here!” The beast turned, fixating on her. I could see the gears in its head shifting, calculating its next move. “Now!” Twilight shouted, her horn glowing bright with energy. She unleashed a burst of magic aimed at the creature’s feet, sending up a shower of sparks and dust. The beast staggered, momentarily distracted. “Now’s our chance!” I shouted, lunging forward. With a quick glance at the pedestal, I made a decision. “I’ll go for the light! You two keep it occupied!” Applejack nodded, her determination evident. “You got it! Just be careful!” I dashed toward the pedestal, the glowing light almost calling to me. As I reached it, I felt a wave of warmth wash over me, as if the fragment recognized my presence. I glanced back to see Twilight firing another blast of magic, hitting the creature square in the chest. It roared in pain, but its focus remained split between us. “Stay back!” Applejack yelled, swinging her lasso to ensnare the beast’s leg. It yanked against the rope, but she held firm, digging her hooves into the ground. The creature stumbled, allowing Twilight to get in a few more magical shots. Reaching the pedestal, I peered at the light, and in its center lay a small, shimmering fragment, glowing brightly. I could feel its power resonating with my own energy. “I have to get it!” I thought, extending my hand toward it. Just as my fingers brushed the surface, a massive paw swiped toward me, knocking me off balance. I tumbled backward, the world spinning around me. I quickly regained my footing, adrenaline still coursing through me. “Isaac!” Twilight shouted, concern etched across her face. “I’m okay!” I called out, my heart racing. I needed to stay focused. I could hear the creature’s growl building, signaling it was about to unleash its fury. “Keep it busy, I’m going for the fragment again!” I shouted, determination fuelling my movements. Applejack was still wrestling with the beast, a lasso now wrapped around its neck, pulling it away from me. “Come on, you oversized hunk of stone!” she yelled, straining with effort. I darted back to the pedestal, my hand outstretched. This time, I wouldn’t let fear hold me back. “Just a little closer…” I whispered to myself, feeling the magic in the air thickening with anticipation. Suddenly, a flash of light erupted from the fragment, enveloping me in a warm glow. I felt its power surge through my fingers, igniting something deep inside me. “This is it!” I thought, confidence surging as I grasped the fragment firmly. The moment I touched it, a rush of energy coursed through me, amplifying my senses. I could feel the magic intertwining with my body. I was no longer just an outsider in this world; I was part of something larger. “Isaac! Get back!” Twilight cried, her voice piercing through my focus. But I was too far gone in the moment. I could sense the creature preparing to charge, its eyes narrowing in rage. The energy from the fragment resonated with my heartbeat, and in a split second, I felt a connection—a bond forged in magic. “Now!” I shouted, lifting the fragment high above my head. “Together!” A burst of brilliant light shot from the fragment, colliding with the guardian just as it lunged at me. The magic exploded into a wave, enveloping the creature in a dazzling display. It howled, struggling against the force, but the light continued to push it back. A Surprised look covered Twilight's face, but she shook it off. “Keep it up!” Twilight encouraged, her magic amplifying mine. “We can do this!” The creature staggered under the combined power of our magic, and I could see the light breaking through its shadowy form. It was weakening, and I felt a surge of hope. “We’re almost there!” Applejack shouted, pulling the rope tighter. “Don’t give up!” With one final push, the radiant energy burst forth, illuminating the hall in a blinding brilliance. The creature roared, and then, in an instant, it dissipated into the air, leaving behind a shimmer of dust that slowly settled. We stood in awe, panting, the remnants of the battle hanging in the air. I looked down at the fragment in my hand, now glowing steadily. “Did we… did we do it?” Twilight stepped forward, her eyes wide. “I think we did! We defeated the guardian!” “Great work, y’all!” Applejack grinned, her usual bravado returning. “Now, let’s see what this thing can do.” I glanced at the pedestal, where the remaining glow pulsed gently, as if inviting us closer. “What do you think it is?” I asked, a mix of excitement and curiosity bubbling within me. “I..I don't know,” Twilight replied, her gaze shifting between the fragment and the pedestal. “We need to analyze it further. There might be clues here about the other fragments?” As we regrouped, the atmosphere shifted from fear to exhilaration. We had faced a formidable challenge, and together, we had emerged victorious. With the first fragment secured, we were one step closer to unlocking the mysteries of the Giant’s Sphere and my way home. But as I glanced back at the castle’s entrance, a chilling breeze swept through, my head ached, my body hurt like hell, and my vision blurred. "Augh!" I cried, holding my head. Then...all went dark—graced by the void once again. 'Ahhh...fuck...' was my last thought before a blinding white void swept through everything. Author's Note This is my fully finished draft I did on my phone while I was at work...and I know it's a little...eh..but I hope you still enjoy it!
Chapter 1 - From the Ashes...He Cometh...[World P.O.V] The sky erupted with fury as the sky lit up with flashes of lightning. The citizens of Ponyville run to their houses as the roaring sounds of what can only be described a raging war in the sky. The wind billows throughout the town, breaking trees and toppling houses with a mighty, haunting howl. "Everypony, get into the castle as quickly as you can!" Twilight yells, running through the streets, helping those she can out from any rubble and debris. The static electricity in the air buzzed with an unnatural hum, the wind swirled in a central location in the town square, a small tornado formed from the dirt and debris of the now destroyed town hall. Lightning coursed through the tornado like a raging hurricane. Finally, a single giant lightning bolt surged inside the eye of the tornado, and from it; a human emerged...and fainted. [Twilight's P.O.V] As I saw the creature emerge from the lightning bolt, my eyes became like pinpricks. I ran over near where the creature appeared, my horn fully charged and ready to blast it if it meant any harm. As my vision focused on the form of the creature, it started to waiver and stumble, soon falling on it's side and seemingly passing out. As soon as he did, the storm almost immediately ceased and calmed down. I sighed, and turned my head towards the castle. "Everypony, get inside the castle and barricade it shut with anything you can find!" I yelled to the ponies that I helped earlier, hoping to keep them from any danger this creature could pose. With my horn still charged, I walk slowly to the creatures passed out form. "What are you?" I asked, not getting any answer. As I got to it, it looked like it was still breathing weakly. I slowly walked a few more steps towards it, just barely three hooves away from it. "Okay..." I breathed, dispelling my magic. "Seems like you're safe...for now..." I trailed, looking around. "Let's get you somewhere safe...for all of us." I said, using my magic to levitate him a few inches off the ground. "One of the unused barns at Sweet Apple Acres should be a safe enough place to see what this thing's intentions are." I whispered to myself, trotting towards the farm. [World P.O.V] I took a few minutes for Twilight to pretty much drag the 6 foot 1 tall human to the farm. Weighing over 245lbs, he wasn't the lightest thing in the world, so he was slid half way on the ground so Twilight wouldn't have an aneurysm trying to lift something that heavy. Twilight finally got to the door of Applejack's humble abode, and knocked 3 times with the back of her hoof. A southern voice soon followed the aforementioned knocks. "Be there in a jiffy!" She called, hoofsteps could be heard swiftly approaching the door. The door opened quickly, almost with urgency. "Oh, Hi Twi!" She said, a warm smile donned her lips. "What can Ah do ya for?" She asked. Twilight chuckled a little nervously. "Hi, AJ! You wouldn't mind if I used one of your unused barns, would you?" Twilight asked in a polite urgent and serious tone. She then moved aside to show Applejack her "cargo". "What in tartaraus is that?!" Applejack exclaimed, jumping back a bit. "This another one of yer science experiments?" She questioned. "You know that mah barn ain't for that kinda thing!" She voiced sternly. Twilight sighed. "No, it's not that. It's...from the storm earlier." She said, looking back at the human. "It just...appeared from a lightning strike, I just want to make sure it's intentions are good before allowing it to wake up in the middle of a half destroyed Ponyville." Twilight said, looking at Applejack with pleading eyes. Applejack sighed, lowering her head and closing her eyes. She thought on the matter for a bit before finally deciding her choice. "Alri' sugarcube, but we need to at least tie it up first! I don't want no giant, hairless monkey freakin' out and trying to hurt us as soon as it sees us!" She said sternly. Twilight nodded. "Agreed." ~A little later~ [Isaac's P.O.V] The last thing I remember before waking up in some random barn is something that'll change my life forever. I was in my house playing some new games I bought for my PC, when all of a sudden the sky became dark. "What the hell?" I said, getting up from my computer chair, and looking out my window. Dark clouds, near black swarmed the sky. Everyone in the suburb flocked outside to check out what's going on, puzzled voices and scared kid cries could be heard in the deafening quiet of neighborhood. I look to my clock on my end table by my bed, just behind my desk. "2:45PM" I say to myself, looking back outside. "This is impossible! It looks like night time!" I heard someone say. Just then, however, lightning struck from within the clouds, orange and red lit the sky. "Heat lightning, maybe?" I say to myself, opening the window. "Hey, you guys should get back inside, I just saw some lightning not to far from us!" I called to the other families. But just before I shut my window, a flash of red tore through my vision as a bolt struck just four feet in front of me. The sound that followed damn near split my ears, making them ring and causing me to fall over. As I opened my eyes, another strike filled my vision with orange and red, like police lights in different colors. This time, I felt a slight pain in my whole body...then...nothing. Everything went numb as I closed my eyes. I waited for something to happen; like sound to come back, but nothing. I waited more, for my vision to come back...still nothing... ... ..... ...... 'OKAY COME ON NOW!' I screamed in my head, getting fed up. 'Am I dead?! Unconscious?! In a coma?! The fuck's goin on?!' I once again yelled in my head, or...wherever I was. Just before I was about to try to yell again, an impossibly bright light flowed into my "vision". Then, a voice spoke, coming from everywhere. "Your answers will be found in the place where the Giant's Sphere is hidden..." The voice echoed withing my entire being, it was majestic and terrifying. "To find the Sphere, you must find yourself...to find yourself, you must find the fragments...good luck, Chosen One." The voice echoed once again. I tried to ask it what it meant before I heard thunder, followed by a bright light. After the light died down, there was a small purple unicorn with a horn staring at me. My eyes grew wide, then darkness filled my vision once more and I passed out. Author's Note Sorry if the final half of the chapter felt rushed, my brain has a hard time typing out what I see for the chapter, and its even harder to make it clear as to what I see in my head when its late :p But it's the only time I get to write! (ALSO MORE Ali and Sean chapters are on their way! Just trying to make sure everything's as consistent and comprehensible as possible! :D)
Chapter 2 - Awakening in a Strange Land[Twilight’s P.O.V] The barn was dim, illuminated only by slivers of light filtering through the gaps in the wood. I had placed the creature on a pile of hay, carefully ensuring it was comfortable. Applejack was pacing nearby, her expression a mix of concern and skepticism. “Are ya sure it’s not gonna wake up and go on a rampage?” she asked, eyeing the creature warily. “I don’t know, AJ,” I admitted, glancing back at the creature’s still form. “But the storm seems to have calmed down, and I don’t sense any immediate danger. We should give it a chance.” With a soft sigh, Applejack approached the creature's unconscious form, her hooves crunching softly on the hay. “Well, Ah reckon it’s the least we can do. But Ah swear, if it starts throwin’ things or screamin’ at us, Ah’m outta here.” I chuckled lightly, trying to ease the tension. “Fair enough. Just be ready, okay?” As we stood there, the sound of distant thunder rumbled, reminding me of the chaos that had just unfolded outside. The citizens of Ponyville were likely still recovering from the storm, and I felt a pang of responsibility for their safety. “We need to check on everypony soon,” I said, turning to Applejack. “But first, let’s see if it wakes up.” [Isaac’s P.O.V] Light pierced through my eyelids, warmth flooding over me like a gentle tide. I slowly opened my eyes, blinking against the brightness. As my vision cleared, I found myself in a rustic barn, surrounded by unfamiliar scents and the gentle rustling of hay. “What the...?” I muttered, sitting up abruptly. My heart raced as I took in my surroundings. I was no longer in my house; the last thing I remembered was that storm—those strange, flashing lights—that voice. “Easy there, big fella!” a voice called, drawing my attention. I turned to see two figures: a purple unicorn with a dark-indigo mane, a pink and purple stripe and a sturdy-looking earth pony with a wide-brimmed hat. Both looked at me with a mixture of curiosity and caution. “Who are you?” I croaked, my voice hoarse. “Where am I?” “I’m Twilight Sparkle, and this is Applejack,” the unicorn introduced, stepping forward with a reassuring smile. “You’re in Ponyville, and you... well, you fell from the sky.” I raised an eyebrow, struggling to piece together the bizarre situation. “Fell from the sky? You mean, like, literally?” “Yes!” Twilight nodded enthusiastically. “A lightning storm brought you here. We’re still trying to figure out how that even happened.” She brought her hoof up to her chin in thought. Applejack shifted uncomfortably, her gaze flicking to the door. “We thought it best to bring ya here until we knew what to do. Yer not hurt, are ya?” I rubbed the back of my head, feeling a dull ache. “Just a headache. What exactly are you? You’re... not from Earth, are you?” Twilight exchanged a quick glance with Applejack, her expression serious. “You’re not in your world anymore. You were transported here—somehow. And we need to understand why.” A wave of confusion washed over me. “Transported? I just want to go home.” The weight of reality settled heavily on my shoulders. “And what do you mean ‘not in my world anymore’?” “You're in Equestria,” Twilight said gently. “We’re ponies, and this is our home. You’re safe here, but we need to understand what happened.” I felt a mixture of fear and curiosity bubbling inside me. “Okay, then. So...how do we figure this out?” [Twilight’s P.O.V] “First, let’s get you some water and food,” I suggested, gesturing to the small kitchenette in the once renovated corner of the barn. “You must be hungry after whatever ordeal you just went through.” As I turned to prepare something, I felt Applejack’s eyes on me, a silent question hanging in the air. I could sense her apprehension about him. “He seems harmless, AJ,” I reassured her quietly. “But we need to keep our guard up until we learn more.” I said, glancing at him quickly. “Yeah, Ah know,” she replied, her voice low. “It’s just… we don’t know what this means. What if he’s connected to that storm somehow? What if he intentionally caused it?” I nodded, the weight of uncertainty settling in my chest. But I had to believe in the goodness of others, even if they were different from me. As I brought over a cup of water and some apples, I once again glanced at our new arrival, who was staring at everything in wonder. “Here you go,” I said, placing the items in front of him. “Take your time. We’ll figure this out together.” I smiled warmly. He looked up, his expression softening. “Thanks... I appreciate it. I just hope I didn’t bring trouble with me.” “Just take a breath,” I said, offering him a reassuring smile. “You’re not alone in this. We’ll find the answers.” "By the way..." He said, taking a bite of his apple. "My name's Issac, it's nice to meet you two!" He said, washing down the bite with some water. Though, as he took a sip of the water, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the storm had been more than just a freak occurrence. There was a connection—something deeper that tied our worlds together. I just hoped we could figure out exactly what the connection was before it was too late.
Chapter 3 - Unraveling Threads[Twilight’s P.O.V] The barn felt warmer with the late afternoon sun filtering through the cracks, but a chill settled in my bones. Isaac was recovering, but the question lingered in the air: why had he fallen here? The storm outside had faded, but the storm inside me was only beginning. “Thanks for the apples,” Isaac said, his voice steadier now. “I’ve never tasted anything like this.” He grinned, the worry in his eyes slowly lifting. “Glad you like ‘em!” Applejack replied, leaning against a wooden post. “They’re the best in Equestria, if Ah do say so myself.” I watched them interact, feeling a cautious optimism. Perhaps the more he learned about us, the more he could help us understand his presence. “So, Isaac,” I began, choosing my words carefully. “Do you remember anything from the storm? Anything unusual?” Isaac furrowed his brow, the playful spark in his eyes dimming. “Just... flashes of light, and then a voice,” he said, his tone growing somber. “It kept calling to me. I thought it was just my imagination, but then...everything went white and...everything's fuzzy after that.” “Wait...a voice?” I exchanged a glance with Applejack. “What did it say?” “It said; "Your answers will be found in the place where the Giant's Sphere is hidden...To find the Sphere, you must find yourself...to find yourself, you must find the fragments." but I don’t know what it means! What's the Giant's Sphere?!” he replied, frustration creeping into his voice. “It just doesn’t make any sense!” “I see...” I said gently. “We'll need to investigate further. There might be something in the library that can help.” “Will it explain what the fuck the Giant's Sphere is?” Isaac asked, curiosity igniting in his eyes. “I don't know...the library is full of books, guides, and references about all kinds of things,” I explained, shrugging. “Maybe we can find some clues about how you got here, or at the very least, about this 'Giant's Shpere'.” Applejack pushed herself off the post. “Well, let’s not waste time then! If y’all are headin’ to the library, Ah’ll come with ya. Two sets of eyes are better than one.” She said as she tipped her hat back into place. Isaac nodded, determination coursing through him. “I’d appreciate that. I want to figure out how to get back home...or at the very least, figure out what hell is going on!” Issac said, getting to his feet. [Applejack’s P.O.V] As we made our way to the library, I couldn’t shake an unsettling feeling that settled in my stomach. Isaac seemed genuine, but there was something about his arrival that felt like a storm waiting to break (No pun intended). The town was still buzzing with the aftermath of the wild weather, and I couldn’t help but worry about what else might be lurking 'round the corner. Once we arrived at the library, I watched as Twilight moved through the seemingly infinite rows of bookcases, her horn glowing softly as she pulled books from the shelves. “This might take a while,” she said, her voice almost a whisper as she examined the spines. “I’ll look for anything related to dimensional travel or storms.” Isaac wandered around the room, his eyes wide with wonder. “You have so many books! Back home, I barely had any!” he marveled, running his fingers over the pages of an open tome. I stood a bit apart, watching them. “Somethin' ain't right...” I muttered to myself, feeling the weight of my instincts. There was still a part of me that was wary, that couldn’t help but question why—or even how—he had come here in the first place. “Found something!” Twilight called out, breaking me from my thoughts. She opened a thick book, pages fluttering. “It talks about a phenomenon known as a ‘class-5 dimensional rift’. It usually appears during intense magical events, like storms. It says that when a rift opens, it can pull beings from one world into another.” Isaac leaned in, his expression intense. “So that’s what happened to me?” “Possibly,” Twilight replied, flipping through the pages. “But it also mentions that these rifts can be unpredictable, and in many cases, unstable. They may close just as quickly as they open, and not all beings can return home easily.” A pang of concern shot through me. “So he might be stuck here?” I said, glancing at Isaac, who was looking increasingly worried. “Not if we can find a way to reverse it,” Twilight said, her determination clear. “We just need to gather more information.” Suddenly, the air grew heavy, a distant rumble echoing from the sky. We exchanged uneasy glances. “What was that?” Isaac asked, his eyes wide. “It sounded like thunder,” I replied, stepping closer to the window. “But the storm’s over. There shouldn’t be any more—” Before I could finish my thought, a blinding flash lit up the room, and the ground shook beneath us. Books fell from the shelves, and I caught Isaac as he stumbled. “What’s happening?” he shouted, panic in his voice. “Stay close!” I yelled, my heart racing. The last thing I wanted was for him to be hurt. Twilight steadied herself, her magic flaring in response to the chaos. And then, as suddenly as it began, the shaking stopped. We all stood in stunned silence, the library now filled with the sound of settling books. “Something’s not right,” Twilight said, eyes wide. “The rift... it might be destabilizing.” “Destabilizing?” Isaac echoed, his face pale. “What does that mean?” “It means we have to act fast,” Twilight said, urgency creeping into her voice. “We need to figure out how to stabilize it before it causes more trouble.” I could feel the weight of the moment pressing down on us, the realization that the storm had not just been an accident—it was a thread connecting our worlds, and we were tangled in it. “Let’s get to work,” I said, rallying my thoughts. “We’ll find a way to send you home, Isaac. But we’ll need all the help we can get.” As the three of us focused on the task ahead, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the storm was only the beginning of something much larger—a challenge that would test our resolve and, possibly, our friendship. Author's Note Oooookay, this took WAAAAY too long to write and WAAYYY too many google searches for "big words"...Usually I try to keep a more lax and/or kinda loose-ish writting style. But for this, I wanted it to feel more cinematic and all around a story that will REALLY pull you in...Dont worry though not ALL my stories will look/read like this, but I wanna REALLY do this one justice! :3 Hope you enjoyed (please lemme know of any spelling errors I didn't catch in my draft :p)
Chapter 4 - Fragments of Truth[Twilight’s P.O.V] The air in the library pulsed with urgency as we combed through the books, desperate for answers. The sudden tremor had left a lingering tension, like the calm before another storm. I could feel it in my bones—the rift was not just a phenomenon; it was a warning. “Let’s split up,” I suggested, flipping through a tome that detailed various magical anomalies. “If we each focus on different sections, we might find something quicker.” Isaac nodded, his determination rekindled. “I’ll look for anything about the Giant’s Sphere. It has to be connected to all of this.” “Applejack, you could check the history section,” I added, knowing her practical mindset could lead to insights about any past incidents. “Sometimes ancient events can shed light on the present.” “Got it,” she said, adjusting her hat with a determined smile. “Ah’ll see what Ah can dig up.” As we scattered across the room, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of urgency pulling me in every direction. I delved into a book about rifts and their properties, scanning the lines for anything that might help stabilize the one threatening our world. But as the minutes ticked by, the words began to blur. My thoughts kept drifting back to Isaac—his fear, his uncertainty. What if he couldn’t go back? I pushed the thought aside and focused on the task at hand. We needed to protect our home first. [Applejack’s P.O.V] I wandered over to the dusty history section, the smell of old parchment filling the air. I ran my fingers along the spines of the books, each one a treasure trove of stories waiting to be uncovered. “C’mon, you can do this...” I muttered to myself, pulling a hefty volume from the shelf. The title read "Echoes of the Past: Equestrian History and Magic". Flipping through the pages, I stumbled upon a chapter detailing strange occurrences during storms, tales of lost travelers and rifts. One story caught my eye; a tale of a sphere that had appeared in the middle of a similar storm, allegedly created by the giants of old. “Could this be it?” I murmured, tracing the illustration of the sphere. It was massive, adorned with strange symbols that seemed to shimmer off the page. Grabbing some parchment and a quill, I quickly jotted down notes, my heart racing at the connection. Maybe we weren’t just looking for a way to stabilize the rift; we were searching for something much more significant. Suddenly, a loud crash echoed from the other side of the library. “Twilight!” I shouted, sprinting towards the sound, my heart pounding. [Isaac’s P.O.V] As I rifled through a stack of books on dimensional travel, a feeling of dread washed over me. I was alone, surrounded by the silence of ancient knowledge, and yet I felt anything but secure. The mention of the Giant’s Sphere kept repeating in my mind like a mantra. What if it really held the key to my return? Then I heard it—a low rumble, echoing through the walls, followed by the unmistakable sound of something heavy crashing. My heart raced as I dashed toward the noise. “Twilight! Applejack!” I called, fear threading through my voice. I found them standing over a fallen bookshelf, its contents strewn across the floor. “What happened?” I asked, rushing to help them clear the mess. Twilight’s eyes were wide, scanning the chaotic scene. “The rift is reacting to something! We need to hurry!” Her voice trembled with fear. As we worked together to right the shelves and collect the scattered books, I caught sight of a glimmer beneath the rubble. Curiosity piqued, I reached down and pulled out a small, glowing shard, pulsating softly in my hand. “What is that?” Twilight gasped, eyes fixed on the object. “I don’t know, but it feels… powerful,” I replied, energy radiating from the orb. “Could it be connected to the Giant’s Sphere?” “Let me see it!” Twilight said, her magic reaching out to inspect the shard. As she focused her energy, the light began to swirl, revealing symbols that mirrored those in the illustration Applejack had found. “This is incredible!” Twilight exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “These symbols… they might be fragments of the spell matrix we need to stabilize the rift!” “Then we can fix this!” I said, hope surging through me. “We can get me home.” But just as the words left my lips, the library shook again, and the shard flared brightly. The air crackled with energy, and I felt a surge of something—fear? Power? I couldn’t tell. “What’s happening?!” Applejack shouted, grabbing my arm. “We need to control it!” Twilight said, her voice steady but urgent. “If I can channel its energy, it might be enough to stabilize the rift!” I nodded, feeling the weight of our combined determination. Closing her eyes, she formed a pulsing magic circle and channeled her magic into the shard, the symbols glowing brighter with every pulse. As she focused, I could feel the rift’s chaotic energy pushing back, like a wall of wind pushing it's way toward her. A surge of uncertainty buzzed around us. “Hold on!” I shouted, my voice straining against the intense pressure. And then, in a flash of blinding light, everything fell silent. The air felt still, as if the world was holding its breath. [Twilight’s P.O.V] The light enveloped us, and for a moment, I felt untethered, as if I was floating in a vast expanse of stars. But just as quickly as it began, it faded, and we found ourselves back in the library, the orb now dim and cool in Isaac’s hands. “What just happened?” I asked, panting slightly. “I think… I think we reached it,” Isaac said, eyes wide with realization. “This fragment is part of something bigger—a connection to the Giant’s Sphere.” As we gathered ourselves, I knew this was only the beginning. The storm had unleashed more than just a rift; it had opened a path to ancient truths long hidden. And as I looked at my friends, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. We were in this together, and we would face whatever lay ahead. “Alright....let’s find the Giant’s Sphere,” I said, a determined smile breaking through the tension. “We’ll figure this out...together!” As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting shadows through the library, I had a feeling that we were racing against time. The battle may have been won, but the war was just beginning. Author's Note Another chapter, another crisis averted...for now ;) Also..fear? power? Maybe Issac is in for a real fun treat soon (tm) ;)
Chapter 5 - The Guardian[Isaac’s P.O.V] As the last rays of sunlight filtered through the library’s windows, I felt a new urgency. The fragment in my hand pulsed softly, reminding me that we were on the brink of something monumental. “So, what’s our next step?” I asked, glancing at Twilight and Applejack. Twilight placed a hoof on the table, her brow furrowed in concentration. “We need to gather more fragments. If this shard is part of the spell matrix, then others must exist. They could lead us to the rest of the fragments to the Giant’s Sphere.” “Any idea where we might find them?” Applejack asked, her tone practical. Twilight nodded. “There are legends about hidden fragments scattered across Equestria. Some are tied to ancient sites—places where powerful magic once thrived.” “Then we’ll need to split up,” I suggested, adrenaline pumping through me. “The sooner we find them, the sooner we can get me home!” “Hold on a minute!” Applejack interjected. “Are you sure it’s safe to be wanderin’ around? What if that storm has left somethin’ else behind?” I paused, weighing her words. “You’re right. We need to be cautious. But we also can’t waste time.” Twilight interjected, “How about we stick together for now? We can create a plan based on what we find, and then divide to cover more ground.” “Alright, that works for me,” I agreed, feeling a sense of excitement growing within me. “Let’s figure out where we should start looking!” [Twilight’s P.O.V] As we planned, I pulled out a large map of Equestria. “There are several ancient sites that might be worth investigating,” I said, tracing my hoof over the parchment. “There’s the Crystal Empire, the Everfree Forest, and the ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters.” “Castle of the Two Sisters?” Isaac asked, his eyes widening. “What’s that?” “It’s where Princess Celestia and Luna ruled before they moved to Canterlot,” I explained. “It’s steeped in history and magic, and many believe it holds remnants of their power.” “Sounds like a good starting point,” Applejack said. “What about the others? Are ya sure they could be of any use?” AJ asked, putting her hoof to her chin. "Ah mean, nothin' like that ever showed up when we've been to those places in the past, 'cept the Crystal Empire..." She trailed. "That place is full o' crystals, won't they all look the same?" “Well, the castle is our best shot to find another fragment. The Crystal Empire, however, will be a lot tougher to find anything for that exact reason. We can save that one for last.” I replied, feeling a surge of confidence. “Honestly, If we can find even one more fragment, we’ll be one step closer to getting Issac home....hopefully.” “Then it’s settled!” Isaac declared, hope filling his voice. “Let’s head to the castle!” He exclaimed, a smile donning his lips. As we prepared to leave, I couldn’t shake the feeling that we were being watched. A shiver ran down my spine, but I brushed it off. We had a mission, and I needed to stay focused. [Applejack’s P.O.V] We made our way to the outskirts of Ponyville, the air still crackling with remnants of the storm. I couldn’t help but keep a vigilant eye on our surroundings. “Stick close, y’all,” I cautioned, glancing back at Isaac. “We don’t know what else that storm might’ve stirred up.” “Got it,” Isaac said, a hint of nervousness creeping into his tone. I could see it in his eyes—he was out of his element, and this world was a far cry from whatever he was used to. As we reached the edge of the Everfree Forest, the trees loomed tall and shadowy, their twisted branches creating an ominous barrier. “This place gives me the creeps,” Isaac muttered, eyeing the forest warily. “Yeah, it can be a little spooky,” I admitted, stepping ahead. “But we’re in this together. Just remember, if anything jumps out, stay behind me.” Twilight nodded in agreement. “We should stay alert. There are creatures here that are not friendly.” We ventured into the forest, the air thick with mystery. Each sound—the rustling leaves, the distant hoots of owls—heightened my senses. We moved cautiously, weaving between the ancient trees. Suddenly, a low growl echoed around us, sending chills down my spine. “What was that?” Isaac whispered, his voice barely audible. “Keep calm,” I urged, scanning the darkness. “It could be anything. Just remember—stay close!” I emphasized the final part of my warning, hoping it was just a timberwolf. A figure darted between the trees, too fast for me to see. My heart raced as we pressed onward. 'Okay...so NOT a timberwolf! That thing was like nothing I've ever seen before!' I thought as my eyes narrowed. I turn towards Issac and Twi. “We need to find that castle and fast!” I said, urging us forward. [Isaac’s P.O.V] The deeper we went, the more I felt the tension in the air. “This place is intense,” I said, trying to mask my apprehension. “Are there really creatures that could hurt us?” “Yeah, based on how Applejack just sounded,” Twilight replied, her voice steady. “But we’ll be fine if we stick together.” As we continued, the forest began to thin, revealing an ancient stone pathway and the low growling ceased around us. “This must be the way to the castle,” I said, my excitement bubbling beneath the fear. We followed the path, and before long, the silhouette of the Castle of the Two Sisters emerged in the distance. Its towering spires and crumbling walls exuded an aura of forgotten power. “There it is!” I exclaimed, my heart racing. As we approached, I felt a strange energy thrumming through the ground beneath my feet. “This place is alive with magic,” I whispered, my voice filled with awe. “Yeah, but let’s not forget the dangers,” Applejack reminded us, keeping her guard up. “We need to be careful.” [Twilight’s P.O.V] The castle loomed closer, its ancient stones whispering secrets of the past. “We’ll search the main hall first,” I suggested, feeling the excitement building within me. “It’s likely where the most significant magic is concentrated.” Pushing through the crumbling entrance, we stepped into the grand hall. Dust particles danced in the air, illuminated by beams of sunlight streaming through broken stained glass windows. The atmosphere felt charged, as if the very walls held memories of long-ago battles. “Stay close,” I reminded the others. “We don’t know what we might find in here.” I said, looking around cautiously. "It's been some time since I was here last..." I trailed. As we explored the hall, I noticed a strange shimmering light emanating from the far end of the room. “Over there!” I pointed, moving toward it with a mix of hope and trepidation. As we drew closer, the light pulsed and flickered, revealing a circular pedestal at its center. “What’s that?” Isaac asked, his eyes widening. "I don't know, that wasn't here before." I said as I approached cautiously, and as I reached the pedestal, I could feel the power radiating from it. “This could be where the fragment is hidden,” I said, excitement bubbling within me. But as I reached out to touch it, a loud roar echoed through the hall, shaking the ground beneath us. The doors slammed shut, and shadows danced in the corners. “Get back!” I shouted, positioning myself protectively in front of the two. From the darkness emerged a creature—a towering beast with glowing eyes and jagged claws, its growl reverberating through the hall. “What in Equestria is that?!” Isaac exclaimed, his fear palpable. “It’s a guardian of the castle,” I realized, feeling the weight of our predicament. “We need to defend ourselves!” With my heart racing, I summoned my magic, preparing for the battle ahead. We were here for the fragments, and I wouldn’t let anything stand in our way. “Get ready!” I called to Applejack and Isaac. “We’re going to have to fight!” As the creature lunged toward us, the glow of the fragment pulsed in rhythm with my heartbeat, and I knew that this was gonna be a tough battle. [Isaac’s P.O.V] The creature loomed before us, its menacing form blocking the only exit. Adrenaline surged through me as I instinctively stepped back, but Applejack was already in position, her stance firm and unwavering. “Twilight! What do we do?” I shouted, glancing between the beast and my new friends. “We can’t just stand here!” “We need to distract it!” Twilight replied, her voice steady despite the chaos. “Applejack, you take the left! Isaac, you—” “Right! I’ll flank it!” I interjected, my mind racing as I recalled various video game strategies. With a nod from Twilight, we split into our positions, each of us aware of the stakes. The guardian growled again, its glowing eyes fixed on us, muscles coiling like a spring. Just as I moved to the right, I felt a surge of courage swell within me. This wasn’t just about survival; it was about finding those fragments and getting home. As Applejack charged forward, she called out, “Hey ugly! Over here!” The beast turned, fixating on her. I could see the gears in its head shifting, calculating its next move. “Now!” Twilight shouted, her horn glowing bright with energy. She unleashed a burst of magic aimed at the creature’s feet, sending up a shower of sparks and dust. The beast staggered, momentarily distracted. “Now’s our chance!” I shouted, lunging forward. With a quick glance at the pedestal, I made a decision. “I’ll go for the light! You two keep it occupied!” Applejack nodded, her determination evident. “You got it! Just be careful!” I dashed toward the pedestal, the glowing light almost calling to me. As I reached it, I felt a wave of warmth wash over me, as if the fragment recognized my presence. I glanced back to see Twilight firing another blast of magic, hitting the creature square in the chest. It roared in pain, but its focus remained split between us. “Stay back!” Applejack yelled, swinging her lasso to ensnare the beast’s leg. It yanked against the rope, but she held firm, digging her hooves into the ground. The creature stumbled, allowing Twilight to get in a few more magical shots. Reaching the pedestal, I peered at the light, and in its center lay a small, shimmering fragment, glowing brightly. I could feel its power resonating with my own energy. “I have to get it!” I thought, extending my hand toward it. Just as my fingers brushed the surface, a massive paw swiped toward me, knocking me off balance. I tumbled backward, the world spinning around me. I quickly regained my footing, adrenaline still coursing through me. “Isaac!” Twilight shouted, concern etched across her face. “I’m okay!” I called out, my heart racing. I needed to stay focused. I could hear the creature’s growl building, signaling it was about to unleash its fury. “Keep it busy, I’m going for the fragment again!” I shouted, determination fuelling my movements. Applejack was still wrestling with the beast, a lasso now wrapped around its neck, pulling it away from me. “Come on, you oversized hunk of stone!” she yelled, straining with effort. I darted back to the pedestal, my hand outstretched. This time, I wouldn’t let fear hold me back. “Just a little closer…” I whispered to myself, feeling the magic in the air thickening with anticipation. Suddenly, a flash of light erupted from the fragment, enveloping me in a warm glow. I felt its power surge through my fingers, igniting something deep inside me. “This is it!” I thought, confidence surging as I grasped the fragment firmly. The moment I touched it, a rush of energy coursed through me, amplifying my senses. I could feel the magic intertwining with my body. I was no longer just an outsider in this world; I was part of something larger. “Isaac! Get back!” Twilight cried, her voice piercing through my focus. But I was too far gone in the moment. I could sense the creature preparing to charge, its eyes narrowing in rage. The energy from the fragment resonated with my heartbeat, and in a split second, I felt a connection—a bond forged in magic. “Now!” I shouted, lifting the fragment high above my head. “Together!” A burst of brilliant light shot from the fragment, colliding with the guardian just as it lunged at me. The magic exploded into a wave, enveloping the creature in a dazzling display. It howled, struggling against the force, but the light continued to push it back. A Surprised look covered Twilight's face, but she shook it off. “Keep it up!” Twilight encouraged, her magic amplifying mine. “We can do this!” The creature staggered under the combined power of our magic, and I could see the light breaking through its shadowy form. It was weakening, and I felt a surge of hope. “We’re almost there!” Applejack shouted, pulling the rope tighter. “Don’t give up!” With one final push, the radiant energy burst forth, illuminating the hall in a blinding brilliance. The creature roared, and then, in an instant, it dissipated into the air, leaving behind a shimmer of dust that slowly settled. We stood in awe, panting, the remnants of the battle hanging in the air. I looked down at the fragment in my hand, now glowing steadily. “Did we… did we do it?” Twilight stepped forward, her eyes wide. “I think we did! We defeated the guardian!” “Great work, y’all!” Applejack grinned, her usual bravado returning. “Now, let’s see what this thing can do.” I glanced at the pedestal, where the remaining glow pulsed gently, as if inviting us closer. “What do you think it is?” I asked, a mix of excitement and curiosity bubbling within me. “I..I don't know,” Twilight replied, her gaze shifting between the fragment and the pedestal. “We need to analyze it further. There might be clues here about the other fragments?” As we regrouped, the atmosphere shifted from fear to exhilaration. We had faced a formidable challenge, and together, we had emerged victorious. With the first fragment secured, we were one step closer to unlocking the mysteries of the Giant’s Sphere and my way home. But as I glanced back at the castle’s entrance, a chilling breeze swept through, my head ached, my body hurt like hell, and my vision blurred. "Augh!" I cried, holding my head. Then...all went dark—graced by the void once again. 'Ahhh...fuck...' was my last thought before a blinding white void swept through everything. Author's Note This is my fully finished draft I did on my phone while I was at work...and I know it's a little...eh..but I hope you still enjoy it!
