Bleach: Equestria

Chapters

Volume 1 - The Death And The Unicorn - Part 1
Volume 1 - The Death And The Unicorn - Part 2
Volume 1 - The Death And The Unicorn - Part 3
Volume 2 - Sisterly Bonds - Part 1
Volume 2 - Sisterly Bonds - Part 2
Volume 2 - Sisterly Bonds - Part 3
Volume 2 - Sisterly Bonds - Part 4

Volume 1 - The Death And The Unicorn - Part 1

"Get up, Twili!”

Shining Armor's voice echoed throughout the corridors of the small house and into the quiet bedroom of his younger sister. The room was small and minimalistic, the owner clearly holding the opinion that furniture was a luxury that she didn't need: it had a single bookshelf full of various books, a tidy study table with nothing but an open notebook lying on it, a humble wardrobe and a single pony bed. The lavender walls were naked, besides the few signed posters of a popular musician, Vinyl Scratch.

Lying on the bed, covered by an azure blanket, a young unicorn moaned as the voice jarred her awake. She curled up into the blanket, cherishing its warm embrace as its fine fibres combed her lavender coat. She ran a hoof over her purple mane, idly tracing the pink strip of hair that ran down her fringe.

"Twili, don't make me come up there!"

Twilight Sparkle grunted and stretched her aching limbs, sighing contently as her joints popped. Still drowsy from the previous night’s sleep (or lack thereof) she struggled to peel her eyes open, but she didn't need to open them to know that her mane was a complete mess and her coat needed a good brushing.

Sighing in exasperation, she used her magic to lift up the blanket and force herself out of her bed. Twilight rubbed her eyes as they adjusted to the harsh sunlight pouring through the curtains, and ran her gaze over her humble abode, focusing on the clock hanging on the wall.

"Hmm, seven...” she mumbled, “At least I didn't oversleep." She yawned as she wondered what fate could have befallen her alarm clock. Glancing around she found she had thrown it on the floor when it had rung ten minutes beforehand. She couldn't help but roll her eyes at herself.

At least I set my alarm early... Well that, and Shining knows that I always stay up late studying.

Smiling, she rose from the bed and trotted lazily to the bathroom.

A few minutes of peaceful silence passed by as the unicorn organized her appearance. Twilight could hear the chink of plates and cutlery a floor below. She reemerged from the bathroom clothed in a school uniform. It was composed of a navy blue, short skirt, a white, long-sleeved shirt and a blue tie.

She grinned excitedly at herself in the mirror, and trotted towards the kitchen: a clean and simple room made of brilliant, white tiles that shone under the fluorescent lighting. Shining Armor stood next to a small oven, preparing breakfast.

“Thanks for the breakfast, Big Bro, but you're going to be late for work.” Twilight chuckled nervously as her eyes glanced at the kitchen clock.

He turned to her and smiled tenderly, “Don’t worry, Twili; I can spare a little time to take care of my little sister. The guys over at the police department aren’t a bunch of heartless.”

“On your first day?” she quizzed, cocking an eyebrow.

Shining grinned sheepishly and levitated a plate with a sandwich on it onto the table. Twilight sat down, picked up the bread with her magic, and began eating. Shining Armor perched upon a seat across from her at the table with a sandwich of his own as he began to eat it delicately. Twilight resisted an eyeroll. How does he always manage to be the gentlecolt, even when he eats?

"So, any news about the murders, Shining?" The mare asked in between mouthfuls.

Shining Armor sighed. He didn't want to talk about the situation with Twilight, but he knew her curiosity was greater than a child's and several times as persistent, and he knew that he wouldn’t be able to run from her questions for long.

"Not yet, Twili. Although I need to talk to you about that: this case looks pretty big, so I'm not sure what time I'll be back tonight. You'll be okay, right?"

Twilight suppressed another eyeroll, this time with less success, and nodded, “Of course.”

“So, it’s your first day at University.” Shining cheered, clapping his hooves. “Congratulations! How’re you feeling?” He quizzed excitedly, completely changing the subject.

“Yeah. I might be a little nervous, but it's so good to finally be going there; school was just so boring." Twilight complained, “The work was always far too easy, and they didn’t even teach teleportation magic!”

Shining smirked, "The dork of the family, indeed.” he muttered, “I think you'll like it there. I remember my first time at Uni." Her brother smiled as his eyes unfocused. "It's a shame I didn't keep in contact with many of my friends. That, and I was never any good with magic."

Twilight grinned at him. "Yeah, clear from birth I was the clever child..."

"Hey!" Shining pouted, feigning a hurt look, and the pair shared a small laugh. Twilight was always grateful for the time she spent with him, even if it was just a few minutes during their breakfast.

Before she'd even realized it Twilight had finished her sandwich, and Shining giggled at her surprised expression. Pouting, she got up from her chair and picked up her saddlebag of textbooks.

“See ya, Big Bro.” she said as chuckled mischievously. “Have a good first day.”

“Hey,wait up!” Shining cantered over and locked her in a tight hug. “Be good for me, Twili." Shining said softly. "You need to study less, you know; you always overwork yourself. I worry for you, Twi.”

"Don't worry, Officer; I'll be fine." Twilight chuckled. Her brother could be so protective sometimes. With a smile, she left the room, and departed for the campus.

Twilight walked through the streets of Ponyville. The small town was calm and tranquil, and yet everypony waved at her with wide smiles. Along the edge of the road small trees dotted between buildings. Twilight could feel the gentle breeze of nature and the calm setting of a rural location easing her nerves and washing away her fatigue.

I could definitely get used to this.

The lavender unicorn used her magic to levitate a book from the saddlebag at her side, and a quill from a small pocket. She opened the tome with care and began to write while walking, the quill making scratching noises as she took each step.

Today, I’m starting a new diary, because I’m starting a new life.

My name is Twilight Sparkle. Me and my brother Shining Armor moved from the capital, Canterlot, to this small town called Ponyville.
We had to come over here because my brother, a police detective, was transferred to help solve a case of a series of deaths that have so far baffled the police here. They suspect murder, but there’s no proof to suggest so; the victims had all seemingly dropped death with little or no cause.
But, despite this, I’m also pleased we came here; even though Ponyville is just a small town, its University of Magic has very high results and is renowned for graduating some brilliant minds.

Before the mare could continue with her scribbles, her attention was caught by a small filly in the corner of her vision under the shadow of an apple tree. The filly wore a faded yellow, simple dress, and a cute hat. Her eyes were focused on the tree above her, and a look of hunger crossed her face when she spotted an apple.

Another one.

“Hello.” Twilight said loudly as she trotted over, hoping catch the filly's attention. The mare smiled when the filly turned to her. She had a white coat which was as clear as fresh snow. Her hat covered most of her chalk-white mane, and cast a shadow over her eyes. Twilight could see a glint of sadness in those emerald irises.

“Who are you, miss?” the small mare asked with a small and timid voice, her face scrunching up into a confused expression.

“I’m just passing through here. What’s your name? I'm Twilight Sparkle.”

The filly turned her attention back to the apples, “My name is Flora Song.” she replied faintly.

Twilight glanced up at the apples, “They sure do look good. You want one, Flora?”

The small mare nodded slowly. Twilight smiled kindly, and used her magic to pluck one of the brilliant, red apples from the canopy above them, placing it on the ground in front of the filly.

“Here, eat. If you want some more, just ask.”

Flora Song slowly shook her head in negation, and let out a soft sob. When she looked up at Twilight again, tears were shimmering in her eyes.

“I can’t eat... I ... I don’t remember when I started trying to pick the apples from this tree, but I never... I never got one." The tears ran down her face is small rivulets. "The days passed and I started to notice that I never got hungry, or sleepy, or anything... I never got... I'll never get hungry, again.”

Twilight gave the filly an understanding smile, feeling her eyes grow hot, “I know.”

“People never noticed that I was here." The filly paused. "So how can you see me? How're you talking to me?”

Twilight sat down next to her. “I don’t know, either. I just can, and all the others like you since I was a little filly like you.”

Flora Song looked down to the apple on the ground and shivered, “Thank you.”

“Flora, I hope that someday you'll be able to go to a place where you can eat all the apples you want.” the lavender unicorn picked up another apple, and started to trot away from the tree. The small filly stared longingly at Twilight, and tried picking the apple with her hooves, but her hoof just passed through it.

“Goodbye, Twilight Sparkle.”

A butterfly flew over the filly, and landed on the tip of her nose, attracting her attention. It was as black as night.

“It seems I’ve finally found you, Flora Song.” said a male voice from behind the tree. The filly looked around and saw that Twilight had gone. The butterfly flew away as Flora began walking warily around the tree.

“Can you see me too?” she whispered.

Leaning against the tree on two hind legs, stood a tall, purple, bipedal creature. His eyes were closed. Flora's eyes ran over his long 'forelegs' and winced as they fell upon sharp claws where hooves were supposed to be. He wore a black robe, with a white strap around his waist. He smiled as the filly found him, his white teeth glowed in the shade.

A Dragon!.

“Yes, I can.” he said softly, running a claw over the green spikes running from the top of his head down his next and over his back.

“You’re different from the others. Are you here to take me to a place where I can eat some apples?” Flora looked up at him, her eyes shimmering with hope.

The dragon nodded, opening his draconic eyes. They glowed emerald in the shade.

“Yes.” he answered, a sad smile dancing across his lips. “But you have to promise me you won't be scared.”

“I promise!”

He kneeled in front of the filly, and, from his back, he drew a long sword. Flora couldn't help but gulp as he brought it near her. The dragon saw her reaction.

"Shh, don't worry, I won't hurt you."

He gently placed the hilt of the sword upon Flora’s forehead. Instantly, Flora felt all the nerves and pain of a hundred years ebb away as the world was bathed in blue light.

And then...

Peace.

“Hmm, so somepony else noticed you too?” the dragon whispered softly.

Twilight gasped when the campus came into a view: a big mansion stood on the top of a hill, surrounded by the lush greenery of wild flora. It cast a intimidating shadow on the ground. The structure was in the middle of a great courtyard encircled by tall walls and a pair of heavy gates made of iron. They hung open, welcoming a large quantity of ponies, who were gathering in the vicinity to wait for the moment their school lives would commence.

Retrieving a book from her bag Twilight began reading as she passed through the crowd, the book held firmly in her magical field. As she passed through the centre of the crowd, Twilight couldn't help but notice a few eyes falling upon her. Pushing the thoughts of the judging gazes to the back of her mind she continued straight towards the mansion. She caught a glimpse of the gargantuan tower at the center, which housed an impressive golden bell. Benches were dotted along the perimeter of the path, and were shaded by large trees. Already, different social circles had laid claim to several.

A huge flock of mares and stallions were reuniting in the courtyard. Two cobalt stallions, clearly twins, wore camouflaged berets. They towered over their peers, looking menacingly like bodyguards for a much smaller, light blue unicorn with a flowing, silver-white mane and purple eyes. The trio were clearly the centre of attention.

The ones gathered around her were muttering to each other, but the lavender unicorn gave them no mind and walked past the crowd.

“Hey, you!” called a voice. There was no doubt about who it belonged to.

Twilight continued walking, ignoring the baiting voice.

The mare raised her eyebrows, shooting Twilight an unimpressed look. in two swift motions, she clapped her hooves, and the two big stallions from before stood in the way of Twilight. She stopped and glanced up at them, her face still buried in the book.

“Can I help you?” Twilight asked, a frown forming on her muzzle.

“Yes, you can! You’re a freshman, are you not?” said Trixie, appearing between the two stallions with a teleport spell.

“Yes, first day is today.” Twilight replied curtly, “Is there a problem with that?”

"Oh, really?" She responded slyly, and glanced around expectantly at the crowd that had gathered around them. As if on cue they broke out into chatters of laughter. The light blue unicorn let off a grand and egotistical chuckle of mockery.

“At least that takes some of the guilt off your shoulders.” “she said, a grin dancing over her lips, “Well, introductions are in order. You stand before the great, the powerful, the one and only Trixie! The most mighty and magical unicorn at this college!” She announced grandly, puffing out her chest, rising her body, and shaking her hooves for added effect.

“So?” Twilight replied with an unimpressed tone.

Trixie gasped, looking like she’d just been slapped. Restraining her her irritation, she spoke again.

“You must introduce yourself of course! And also pay your respects by bowing down to your superior!”

The lavender mare sighed, she looked to Trixie and bowed her head slightly, “My name is Twilight Sparkle. Are you happy now? Can I go to my class?”

Trixie shot her eyes to the crowd again, who promptly resumed their snickering. Trixie looked back at Twilight, her arrogance reinvigorated. “Now this is better. So you are a unicorn, what magic do you know? Do you hope to be as skilled as the Great and Powerful Trixie?” She demanded.

Twilight boredom etched itself deeper into her expression. She teleported herself behind the trio, and continued walking.

“None of your business." she grumbled.

The crowd gasped, this time without cue from Trixie. The mare, herself, widened her eyes in surprise. She let loose an frustrated growl and teleported in front of Twilight. With a swift kick, Twilight's book went sailing through the air, landing on the grass a few metres away from the pair.

“You dare walk away from Trixie!?” she hissed.

Twilight grimaced, “I think somepony has a little attention problem here.”

A white beam of magical energy hit Twilight and sent her flying through the courtyard. Trixie's horn smoked slightly, and she wobbled uneasily. Twilight lay on the grass groaning. However Trixie's spell did nothing to dowse her rage. “You don’t understand do you? I’m the boss at this college! Nopony here does anything without my permission. Nopony here dares defy me!”

The crowd froze in awe, and gasps and whispering filled the air. Trixie's breathing was loud and laboured.

And then all was silenced by a laugh. Twilight Sparkle rose from the ground, and idly brushed herself down with a hoof.

Thank goodness I cast a ward, or that might have stung.

Still smiling she stared Trixie straight in the eye.

“Well,” Twilight said calmly, “I think some things are going to have to change, then.” Twilight said calmly. Before anyone could comprehend what she had just said, Trixie was sent flying through the air. Her body collided with the mansion wall, causing a small crack in the stonework. She was out cold before she hit the floor. Twilight’s horn sizzled from the bolt of energy she had just sent hurtling across the courtyard.

The crowd didn’t make a sound. Their wide eyes spoke for them.

“Boss!” one of the twins yelled, not even bothering to hide the alarm in his voice. His sibling nudged him with his hoof, eyeing daggers at Twilight. “Get her. We gotta recover the boss' reputation!”

The first stallion turned his head, and both stallions nodded at the same time. They charged in Twilight’s direction, attempting to hit her with a head bash, but the deft unicorn simply teleported herself out of the way of the blundering stallions. Appearing behind them, she used her magic to levitate one of the them into the air.

“Sorry guys, nothing personal.” she said softly, launching one of the twins against the other, the simplistic action sufficient enough to knock both of them out cold.

The crowd was unsure of whether to be overjoyed or fearful; nopony ever, in the history of the university, had been able to challenge Trixie and her gang, and win.

Ignoring the crowd, Twilight continued walking towards the school building, levitating her book in front of her once again.

I think I've made my first impression.

Volume 1 - The Death And The Unicorn - Part 2

Twilight barely noticed the time as the first period of classes concluded.

The classes here are fairly interesting.

The lavender unicorn left the building, and made her way towards a vacant bench, near the wall. She decided to just lie down on the bench, and wait for her classes to continue. It was in the shade of a large tree, and was fanned by a cool, gentle breeze. Twilight couldn't help but lapse into thought.

Of course, everypony was evading her, fearful of a retaliation from Trixie’s gang.

“Great. First day and I’m already a celebrity.” she sighed, “I just wanted to study peacefully, why did that stuck-up mare have to provoke me?" Twilight groaned.

Why does socializing have to be so difficult?

"Well, whatever! I don’t need anypony near me anyway.” Twilight decided. She closed her eyes, hoping to catch some shut-eye before her next lesson. A few minutes later she heard a faint voice. It called her name.

“Miss Sparkle?”

Twilight opened one eye. In front of her stood a female pegasus, young enough to be a student. She had a silky, white coat, a short cerulean mane which fell over all sides of her head. She wore a pair of glasses, and a uniform to match her own. Her most notable feature was her eyes: specifically, her irises; one was blood red, whereas the other was cerulean, the same as her hair.

“Miss Sparkle, m-may I talk to you for just a minute?” the white pegasus asked timidly, trying to not look in Twilight in the eye.

“Well, alright, no problem. But who are you?” Twilight opened her other eye and lifted her head.

“Oh, sorry. My name is Heterochrome, but everypony just calls me Chrome. I am the leader of the student council and-“

“Oh! You're here to scold me because I fought with Trixie, right?" Twilight interrupted. "I’m sorry. You can put it on my record if you want, but I wasn't going let her abuse the freshman’s like that."

Chrome laughed nervously.

“No.” She whispered, shaking her head. “What happened earlier is something we're pretending never occurred. You know, Trixie is the principal’s daughter, and even her father was looking to give to her a little lesson about good manners. She is the classic spoiled child. You just did what no one was able to do until now.”

Twilight smiled. “Thanks goodness. If this event ended up on my permanent record, I would feel bad for the rest of my life!” She resisted a chuckle and asked, “So, if you are not here to give me some disciplinary intervention, what did you want to talk to me for?”

“Well..." Chrome shifted uncomfortably and avoided Twilight's gaze again. "Could you, um, come with me for a few minutes?”

Twilight was unsure of what to make of the question, but she rose up off the bench. “Sure.”

Chrome nodded, and motioned for her to follow. The two mares walked all the way back to the main building, and, after crossing many corridors and rooms, they entered on the Principal’s office. Chrome closed the door behind Twilight, as she walked in. Her eyes darted between the expansive furniture inside, and the lack of the Principal. Chrome proceeded to a filing cabinet, at the edge of the room.

“So what is this all about?” Twilight asked, motioning to the room.

“I'm sorry for dragging you away from your, err, nap, but this is a serious matter. You're the younger sister of Shining Armor, correct?” Chrome opened the filing cabinet, and started to look for a folder inside.

“Yes." Twilight didn't bother asking how she knew that. "Has something happened to my brother?” Twilight couldn't hide the sudden anxiety.

The white mare shook her head,

“Oh, no, don’t worry; I’m asking just to confirm a few things, Twilight. You see," Chrome paused, as if unsure of what to say next, "We need your help.”

"Wait, what?" Twilight was unsure of how to react to that. “My help? W-why me? What's this about?”

Chrome picked up a folder, and placed it, open, upon the Principal’s table.

“We know a thing or two about you. For example; your rare 'Abilities': we need them... We need them to defeat an evil spirit.”

Twilight's eyebrow twitched.

Could she-? No. Only me and Shining know that.

"Abilities? I-I know that I'm quite good with magic, b-but there's nothing special about that, anyone else could help you."

Chrome gave Twilight a sad, but knowing smile.

"Please, don't be alarmed. I did some research about your 'abnormal' behaviour at your other schools. I know your secret. Don't worry it's safe with me."

"What?" She can't mean that; There's no way...

"I know that you can see the spirits of the dead."

Twilight's jaw dropped. "H-how!? Wait, no. Just- Argh!" She spluttered, struggling to say anything remotely comprehensible.

This can't be happening. No way. It can't be that obvious!

Twilight turned her eyes away. Somepony else had discovered her secret. A secret that only her and her brother knew.

"You're crazy, Chrome. I don't know what you are talking about. No one can see the spirits of the dead."

"So you admit they're there?"

"I-" Twilight realised she'd been cornered. Twilight lowered her body, as if she was about to be attacked by Heterochrome. ”What you want from me!?” she yelled.

The pegasus expression saddened, and she lowered her head. "I understand why you're afraid. I really do. But please - your power's the only hope we have!

“A monster is attacking students at this school at night. The police don’t believe us, and their investigation is totally out of track. This supernatural being kills by eating the victim’s souls. Already, many are dead." She paused. "You are familiar with the recent murders which were the reason for your brother's transfer, no? If we don’t do something, and fast, this school will close, and this monster will just find other victims in this town.”

"How can you know all this?"

Chrome's face contorted. “I-I can't say. But I need to show you this." She picked up a remote control from a drawer on the table, and turned on a television behind Twilight. The lavender unicorn turned around, unsure of what she'd find.

The image was from a night vision security camera which had an ideal view of the courtyard of the school at night from above. A mare wearing the school uniform was walking out of the building, locking the front door.

The image distorted slightly.

“This camera is special,” Chrome explained. “It is able to record images from a frequency that normal ponies aren't capable of seeing, and convert them into images that anypony can see.”

On the screen, something appeared. Twilight blinked and looked closer.

No!

An all-too familiar monster stood directly in front of the mare. It was, bipedal, and wore a black mantle, a hood, its face covered by a white mask, with nothing on it except for a grim, red grin.

“This can’t be!” Twilight gasped.

“You recognize this creature?"

"Yes." The unicorn breathed. Chrome nodded.

"I thought so."

Twilight couldn’t look away from the screen; the image of the vile creature branded onto her mind's eye.

"It... it killed my parents." She gulped.

The mare, onscreen, yelped at a sudden noise behind her. She turned away from the locked door and looked in the creature’s direction. Twilight knew all too well what would happen next.

"Run Twilight! Dammit, run!!!"

From the monster’s back, several black hands burst forth like tendrils and rushed towards the mare, suspending her all four limbs. The mare screamed. Her body twisted and squirmed as she desperately battled, in vein, against her invisible adversary. Tears ran down her face as she screamed.

"Help me - anyone! Please!" She sobbed. The creature showed no mercy, and the hold of his extra arms easily overpowered her. She crashed to the ground, her muffled to a small whimper.

Slowly, he dragged the mare towards him, the sound of her body being scraped against the concrete ground caused a sickening, slow requiem.

He was purposely torturing his defenseless victim.

Twilight wanted to look away, but found she could not. The mare was screaming in agony, now, until she was silenced by another hand wrapped around her mouth, muffling it to a despaired squeal.

Finally, The creature grew bored of its prey, and lifted her from the ground. She would have been close enough for her to feel his breath. The creature's white, faceless visage somehow twisted into a huge, red grin.

He raised his arm to reveal a claw wearing a white, bony glove. Almost lovingly, he placed it gently against the mare's chest, only to dive his fingers mercilessly into her flesh.

Twilight felt her head spin as she watched the mare's eyes twinkle out of existence. He released her, but her soul - her life - didn't fall with her body.

The familiar monster released its grip from the lifeless corpse, which crashed, pathetically, to the ground, causing a horrible, pitiful resonance. The victim - that young mare - lay on the ground, eyes wide open, and motionless.

Dead.

Chrome turned off the television, “As you can see, this monster is roaming around the campus, consuming the souls of innocent ponies. And my sources suggest that this is the same creature that killed your parents." Chrome paused. "You have to help us, Twilight Sparkle.”

Twilight shook her head.

"Chrome, don't you see what this means? If we show the police this, this should be sufficient evidence to set the-"

"Twilight, no one must see this video." Chrome said, much too quickly.

"What do you mean? This is all the evidence we need." Twilight said slowly, feeling her heart sink.

"This video belongs to the principle. I shouldn't even be showing you it." Chrome said, venom lacing her voice. "But this wouldn't be sufficient anyway; the police will suspect it was artificially generated."

"But Shining-"

"Twilight, please!" Chrome pleaded. "You're the only one who can see them! You have to be the one to help us. You have to be the one to save us all."

Twilight turned to her, rage threatening to burn her up. “How do you suppose that I can help stop it? Why do you think I can help you? Because I can't! There is nothing I can do!” she screamed. The monster flashed before her mind's eye, every time she blinked back tears.

“Twilight," Chrome said softly, "You can see this thing. You can see it and no one else can. Your skill in magic is unchallengeable! There is no one better for this, than you. There is... no one else.”

The lavender unicorn lowered her head, shaking it, but it did nothing to soothe the sick feeling in her stomach.

“It’s... It’s not my problem. That thing killed my mother in front of me, and no one believed when Shining Armor and I tried to call the police. They just filed the case and forgot everything that happened!”

Now Chrome lowered her head, a sad look glinting in her eyes.

“I understand, Miss Sparkle. And... and I can’t force you to do anything, but please," Chrome whispered, "Have a think about it.”

Twilight turned her back to the pegasus, and left the room without saying another word.

After the second period of classes, Twilight departed for her house. The sun was setting behind her, engulfing the sky in a burning, orange glow. She glanced back at her school one last time, her mind drifting back to Chrome and that video... That monster that destroyed her childhood.

I can’t do it... It’s too early. I admit that, all these years, I was studying magic to become stronger and find a way to avenge my parents but... I’m not strong enough. I'm just... not...

She continued trotting back down the same rural road she had taken that morning, before she found herself by a familiar apple tree.

"Flora Song?" Twilight called.

There was no reply.

She glanced behind the tree, searching for the young filly, but there wasn't anypony to be found.

Twilight felt a twinge of sadness, and decided to leave the tree, and the memory, behind.

As she passed through the town centre, she stopped at a store on the main square of the town. It was grocery store called 'Sugarcube Corner'.

Some ponies were there, buying sweets to their heart's content. Twilight trotted to a shelf of tantalizing muffins.

“Maybe Shining Armor will like some muffins...” She murmured, to herself.

“This little unicorn sure smells fine...”

Twilight froze in place, pricking her ears. The voice of an old stallion behind her almost gave her a heart attack. She turned around to find an old stallion, with a perverted smile on his face behind her. His eyes were closed.

"Eep!"

Her hoof moved of its own accord. It sailed straight through the air and slapped his face, but passed straight through it. The old pony opened his eyes, his mouth agape as if he'd been successfully slapped.
.
“You can see me, girl?” he asked, the shocked expression never leaving his face.

“Of course I can, you old perv! What do you think you're doing, stalking somepony like this?” Twilight didn't notice her voice rising uncontrollably. The entire grocery turned to look at her, with confused and concerned expressions.

“Are you alright, my dear?” A pink earth pony asked, eyes filled with worry. “Something's happened? Maybe the muffins aren’t as you like?”

Twilight glanced at the pony, and then back again at the old stallion.

Oh, no. He's a ghost, isn't he...

Recalling how her hoof had previously passed straight through the stallion's face, she resisted facehoofing. She started to laugh, the embarrassment enflamed her cheeks. “I’m sorry, I just... You know, I’m practicing for, err - my theatre classes!” She glanced back at the muffins, “And I got a little too excited and didn’t notice my tone. Sorry!”

The pink mare blinked at Twilight.

“Alright my dear, but please watch your manners from now on.”

She trotted away, and everypony from the grocery returned to their business. The unicorn turned to the ghost, who's laughter was echoing throughout the store, if anypony had been able to hear it, at least.

“What're you doing?” she hissed.

“Well, what else do I have to do? Do you know how many years I've been dead now? I still have no idea how I'm supposed get out of this world? I have all the time I in the world, so I'll happily follow some pretty ladies!” He started to drool comically. “Like you!”

“Eurgh! Get away, I don’t want an old perv following me around.” Twilight growled. She picked up some muffins with her magic, and trotted away to pay for them.

“No! Finally, I have found a pretty lady that can hear me! I will stay with you for the rest of your life!” He squealed, dreamily.

Twilight left the store, with the persistent ghost following right behind her.

“So what fragrance do you use? I love it!” he giggled. Twilight did her best to ignore the ghost completely. His chattering continuing for the entire journey back to her house, ranging from lewd jokes to the completely lascivious. Twilight ground her teeth as she opened the door.

“Brother! Are you here?” She shouted.

“So you have a brother, pretty mare?” The ghost cackled.

“Yes! Can you please just shut up?” Twilight hissed.

The purple unicorn trotted into the kitchen, but instead of Shining she found a letter over the table. Her fears were confirmed when she read it:

Going to be at work all night, sleep early; I made some soup, so drink it for dinner. Love you, S.A.

“So he is going to be away?” The ghost stood behind her, reading the paper.

“You're a very annoying pony, you know!” Twilight huffed, as she started to trot back towards the living room.

“So, what're your plans for this evening?” He asked, following her like an obedient dog.

"Well I was just going to take a bath, eat some muffins, and go to bed. I don't think I can do any studying tonight. Not after what I've been through today." She sighed. Studying normally cheered her up, but today her strength felt completely sapped.

"You're going to take a shower, my dear?” Twilight looked back, and saw, to her disgust, the stallion almost had stars in his eyes. She glared back at him.

"Will you please just leave me alone!?” Twilight exclaimed, stomping her hoof on the floor. "Ahhh!" Twilight squealed when the pony just stood there. The stallion continued to ignore her, and followed her when she cantered off. "Stallions..." She muttered.

The duo passed the stairs, and entered the unicorn’s room. Twilight walked into the bathroom, shutting the door in the face of the stallion. When he tried to pass through it, but found that the door was as solid as if he'd been alive.

“What is this?” he complained.

“Oh, I know a trick or two when it comes to clingy, perverted spirits.” Twilight gloated from inside the bathroom. "Advanced Magical Fields: No particle can pass through it unless I allow it!"

"Awww, c'mon, Twilight! Just a peek..." The stallion whined. No reply. Twilight was ignoring him.

Dejected, he lay down on the floor, and thought of past endeavours.

Hours passed, and Twilight was still in the bathroom.

How is this possible? What do maresdo in there? Unless...

He chortled, childishly, at his own thoughts. He didn’t notice the black butterfly fly in and land by his side.

A tall figure then appeared, seemingly from thin air, and landed on the top of the telephone pole outside Twilight’s house. His eyes found the old stallion, and he grinned.

“Found you, at last!”

In one graceful leap, he was standing on Twilight's windowsill. It was then that the Stallion noticed him.

"Ahh!" He yelped, cowering in fear. "Please don't send me to hell!" He lay on the floor whimpering softly. The draconic creature stepped in.

"Forgive me; I didn't mean to alarm you." He explained. “Do not fear, old pony. You aren't going to hell; you're finally going to rest.”

In a flash, the hilt of a sword the stallion hadn't even seen him draw, was pressed firmly against his forehead.

In the same instant, Twilight Sparkle had finally left the bathroom, still covered by a humid towel around her body.

“Okay, you old perv, you can stay a little while but you are going to sleep outside my room and-“ the vision of the stallion being engulfed in a warm, blue light stopped the mare in mid-sentence. Stood over him was a tall figure, clad in a Samurai outfit with an impressive, yet intimidating, Katana in his clawed grip. Twilight Sparkle had a list of bizarre things one might consider reasonable to accept. A dragon, wielding a sword, was, almost certainly, not one of them.

“That’s all of them for tonight!” The dragon purred, proudly. The smile vanished when something caught his attention, at the corner of his vision.

Is that a... table?

"Umph!" he grimaced as a small table smashed against his head, almost knocking him out cold. He wobbled uneasily, but managed to maintain his balance. “Wha-“ he glanced uneasily around before his eyes came to rest on a very unhappy Twilight.

Is that unicorn looking at me? He shook his head. That’s weird. Most ponies can't-

He was interrupted by another another piece of furniture: this time, a drawer from her wardrobe, hurtled towards him. But it sailed through thin air, and clattered harmlessly on the floor.

“What is happening here?” he yelled.

“If you are a thief, then you are a really bad one!” Twilight screamed, throwing a second drawer in his direction, using her magic. The dragon dodged them again.

“Wait, can you see and hear me?”

“Of course I can! I’m not blind!” Twilight hissed. His eyes almost popped out of his head.

“That’s not possible!” He gasped, pointing his claw at the lavender mare.

Or, at least, not probable.

He paused, taking his time to look more carefully at Twilight. "But on a side note, this mare has a very high spiritual pressure; that's not very common for a pony.” he mumbled to himself, running a claw over his chin in thought.

Twilight lowered the front of her body aggressively. Her horn flared, bathing the dim room in a pink glow.

“Are you going to tell me what you did to that old pony, or do I have to make you talk?” She growled.

The dragon grinned, challengingly.

“Cool down, mare, you don’t know what you're getting into."

Twilight's eyes narrowed.

"You asked for it." She hissed, focusing on building a beam of concentrated energy. If she had used this amount of power earlier on Trixie, it would be likely she'd have done some serious, permanent damage. However this was a dragon, and Twilight didn't mind crippling him. She released the bolt of boiling energies, which arced across the room towards the dragon.

He wore an unimpressed look, and raised his arm, stretching out his claw.

“Demon Technique Number Seven: White Barrier.” He purred, smugly. A white shell coalesced around the purple dragon. The powerful beam collided with the barrier and instantly dissipated.

“What!?” Twilight was struck dumb. She was all too aware of her mouth, which hung open in a very unladylike pose.

"I said calm down, missy." He chuckled from behind her. Twilight barely managed to comprehend the invader vanishing from in front of her, appearing behind her, and dealing a skilful karate chop to her neck, before she fell to the ground.

How did he move so fast!? That wasn't a teleport spell... Who is this guy?

Twilight's vision was blurring, and she was struggling to retain consciousness. Just as she was about to attempt a teleport spell, the dragon immobilized her. Holding her forehooves behind her back, with one of his claws.

“You're stronger than you look, mare.” The dragon said, eyeing Twilight curiously.

“Let me go!” the unicorn yelled, from the floor. The dragon chuckled.

“Only if you promise to calm down.”

“First tell me who or what you are, and what you're doing in my house!” Twilight howled, struggling to escape against the dragon's iron grip.

“Well," the dragon grinned. "I guess if you want to know so bad, and you can see me, and all, I think that I can spare some time to tell you.

"Sealing Technique Number One: Chain of Heart, Cuff of Soul." The dragon released the unicorn. "Just in case."

Twilight tried to stand up, but her limbs refused to obey her. She tried to squirm, tensing every muscle she had, but found she was completely unable to move. Not even her magic had any effect.

What school of magic is this!?

“What you have done to me?” She yelled, unable to stem the fountain of distress. The dragon gave another smug smile, and proceeded to sit on the ground. Crossing his legs and placing his claws upon his knees, he answered.

“I put a little sealing technique I learned, on you; I don’t want you throwing any more furniture on me.” He grinned, mumbling, "Or tantrums..." Twilight shot him daggers. He rubbed his head in response. “Don’t worry, the effect will last a few minutes: enough time for me to explain a few things to you.

“What I am, you asked? I am a Soul Reaper. I have come from the other world, known as “Spiritual Equestria”. I have two missions here. The first you have already witnessed: to relieve the souls of the dead who are still bound to the mortal plane, and send them to the spiritual world, where they can rest and prepare for reincarnation.”

Before the dragon could continue, he was interrupted by the peal of laughter. ”Yeah, right. Get real; you think that I will believe this madness?” Twilight’s head throbbed. The dragon withdrew his claw after dealing the karate chop.

Damn, he is fast!

“Do not mock our sacred job!” he yelled. He took a deep breath and regained his composure. “Look, if you don’t believe me, then maybe this will help.” He searched in his sleeve, before withdrawing apple, with a huge bite taken from it, and placed it in front of the unicorn.

Recovering from the blow, Twilight's eyes widened when they fell upon the apple.

“Flora Song.” she whispered.

“Do not worry; she will be able to eat all apples she wants to now.” Twilight looked up, and their eyes met. “Now do you believe me?” Twilight opened her mouth to answer.

The telephone rang.

“I have to answer that." She whispered. The dragon nodded. After a moment of listening to the phone ringing, Twilight hissed, "Can you remove this spell?”

The dragon's attention was on the gadget, lying on the table. He scratched his head, and asked,

“What is this thing?”

Twilight almost exploded. She could feel her mane beginning to singe. Any moment now, she was bound to spontaneously combust.

“It’s a telephone!" She screamed. "You don’t know what that is!? Release me, so I can answer it!” The ranging continued, until it went to the answering machine. “Eurgh, thanks for that, mister Soul Reaper.” Twilight growled. “It could've been an important call.”

As she spoke, the familiar voice of Shining echoed around the empty house.

"Hello, sorry we're not here to take your call at the moment. Leave a message, and we'll get back to you as soon as! Thank you!" The machine beeped.

“Twilight, where are you?" A panicked voice rang out across the room. "We really need your help. It’s Heterochrome. I’ve just visited the principal’s house to give him some documents from the school, and his daughter, Trixie, has disappeared! We've searched his entire house, now and can’t find her anywhere. Worse, the school’s master key has vanished along with her. We fear she might have gone to the school, to find a magic book from the library, to challenge you tomorrow.

"Twilight, if she's gone to the campus, her life could be in danger!" Chrome was desperately holding back sobs. "That monster will kill her! Please, Twilight! If you are hearing this, go to the campus right now!”

Volume 1 - The Death And The Unicorn - Part 3

Images of the video Twilight had watched earlier that day, came rushing back, all at once. Her eyes widened.

“This isn't good - this is horrible! We have to help her.”

Once again, the dragon scratched his head in confusion.

“Monster? There’s a monster on your school’s campus?” He rubbed his chin in suspicion.

Twilight turned to him, nodded, and began hyperventilating.

“Yes, and that thing has already killed many ponies - innocent ponies,” She cried, gasping, “I have to go; I can’t let Trixie get hurt because of me.”

The dragon stood up, wearing a stern and serious expression.

“You stay here, mare.” He said, slowly. “I think I'm going to go and see what's going on. It is my job after all.”

Twilight gave him him a puzzled look.

“Your job?”

He nodded, “Like I said: us Soul Reapers have two jobs in the pony world. One is to find the good souls - those that are lost in this world - and guide them to Spiritual Equestria. These souls are called Pluses.

“The second is to purify the evil souls - those who come into this world to consume the souls of the living and dead, alike. They are known as Hollows. By consuming souls, they expand their lifespan and power.”

“They're called Hollows?” Twilight breathed.

The dragon nodded.

“But, wait!” Twilight yelled, suddenly, “You're not going there alone; Trixie is in there because of me, I have to help her.”

“No. You have no idea how powerful Hollows are. Even Soul Reapers can struggle to slay them.”

“Well, you're not leaving me here!” Twilight yelled, defiantly.

“Of course not; the spell will wear off soon.” He said, turning away from her. “I probably won't be back.”

“No!”

The young unicorn twitched, pushing against her paralysis with all her might. The dragon glanced back uneasily.

“Don't do that!” The dragon gasped. “You'll damage your soul.” the dragon warned. Twilight ignored him, and continued, her horn glowing with a brilliant pink light.

“Stop,” The dragon hissed.

Twilight grimaced as her body convulsed, and pain shot down her spine. Ever so slowly, she stood up.

“Impossible...” he breathed.

Twilight grinned as she was bathed in pink light. He'd rarely seen such determination before, and he couldn't hide his look of awe.

And then she vanished.

“Mare!” the dragon yelled. “Dammit. I didn't even get her name.” He scowled at his own absent-mindedness. “Stupid pony, she's going to get herself killed.”

Twilight's teleportation spell went slightly awry, and she appeared atop a tree just outside the main building.

Remind me to never attempt this kind of distance again.

She grimaced as she fell out of the tree, and landed roughly on the ground. Rubbing her flank, she got up and brushed herself down. Her horn hissed slightly, and she could feel a headache approaching. Twilight groaned, and glanced up, realizing that she was a few steps away from the stairs leading to the entrance of the great mansion. She looked around, the mantle of night blanketed the vicinity in an unsettling shroud of darkness.

Schools at night...

The faint light emitting from the street lamps were the only illumination, on this moonless night. Twilight squinted for any sign of Trixie, but she could see nothing but darkness, and shadows. The sound of the main doors being opened startled her, and she leaped behind the tree. Glancing around, she could just make out the light blue unicorn making her way out of the building, a victorious smile playing on her lips.

Full of relief, Twilight galloped over, her headache beginning to throb.

“Trixie! Are you okay?”

The mare yelped in surprise.

“Who goes? Answer me!” she shrieked.

Twilight came into view.

“Sparkle! W-what are you doing here?” Trixie gasped, raising her hoof at Twilight. “Wait, I know - that pegasus-nerd told you about my brilliant plan, and now you're trying to stop me! But forget it, Sparkle; I've already memorized an entire book of spells, and tomorrow I will make you pay in front of the entire school, for what you have done to me!”

Twilight shook her head in irritation.

"Trixie, that's not important; we have to get out of here, right now. We're in serious danger!”

Trixie began cackling.

“The only one in danger, here, is you, Twilight Sparkle. Do you think you can scare me?”

Twilight stomped a hoof on the ground.

“Trixie, please listen to me,” Twilight begged. “There’s a monster, called a Hollow, at this school, and it's killing students! We have to leave – now!”

Trixie was now openly laughing.

“Are you mocking me? Do you think that I, the Great and Powerful Trixie, believes in ghosts?”

What's this?

The crushing pressure that saturated the air couldn't have gone unnoticed by a sleeping filly.

“Oh, you don't believe in ghosts, my little pony?” A voice boomed, sending shivers down Twilight's spine.

A shadow flitted across the wall of the building, and landed atop the steps. From within it, a dark figure materialized. It sat on one of the steps, it's black hood doing little to disguise the malefic mask underneath.

“Maybe it's time you started...” The monster chuckled, causing the air to throb with each accentuated tone. Its voice was laced with poison, and its eyes glowed with conspicuous malice. The hollow turned towards them, the white mask moved into the light, revealing that grim, red grin.

Trixie stepped back, mouth agape in horror. Twilight was paralyzed; memories scoured through her head, causing her headache to worsen.

This monster... My parents...

A single tear rolled down Twilight's face. She went unnoticed by the hollow, however, as he grabbed Trixie with a gnarled claw. She squealed as she was lifted into the air, and brought level with the hollow's mask.

“Ooh, you have a very strong spiritual pressure.” He gigged. “Far stronger than the ones that I’ve been eating. You look very tasty, too!” He laughed harder, each laugh boomed, causing Twilight's chest feel like it was being crushed.

“P-please, let me go,” Trixie sobbed, squirming futilely against the hollow's iron grip.

“Demon Destruction Technique Number Ten, Dragon’s Fire.”

Out of nowhere, a fireball collided against the hollow, exploding in a brilliant array of emerald sparks. The explosion sent Trixie soaring through the air, and she landed on the ground, close to Twilight. The purple dragon jumped from down from a nearby pole, landing next to the two mares. Twilight stood there, frozen in place, unable to react.

“Hey! Snap out of it! C’mon, we need your help here!” The dragon hissed, but Twilight just continued to look at the hollow, her body refusing to obey her.

“M-my legs... are shaking, my throat is dry, I can’t move...” She breathed, shivering. “I know I've been training for so many years, all in the hope I could avenge my parents... but now – now I can’t do anything!”

Twilight felt another karate chop leave her head burning.

“Snap out of it!” the dragon growled.

“Ouch! That hurt!” Twilight hissed.

“Soul Reaper,” the hollow breathed, emerging from the smoke. “So one of you appeared at last... Tell me, dragon boy, what does your soul taste like?” The terrible laughter began once again.

The dragon unsheathed his sword, and, wielding it in his left claw, he pointed the blade behind him, taking a defensive stance.

“Mare, I need you to take that blue pony, and teleport away from here; I will... take care of this thing.”

“I can’t concentrate enough to teleport! My head's killing me, and there is a strange, pressure in the air.”

The Soul Reaper glanced at Twilight, fear dancing through his eyes.

Fuck! His spiritual pressure is overpowering her - this isn't a common hollow. There's no way... unless...

He gulped.

Oh hell, if this guy is Adjucha class, I'm in deep water; that’s totally out of my league! There must be a way...

The dragon smiled gently. “Hear me out, miss. Take that mare, and run away as fast as you can. Don't you dare look back.” He paused, his eyes lowering to the ground. “I'll hold him off.”

“But...” Twilight breathed.

“No buts!” The dragon yelled. “Go now!”

She nodded, using her magic to place an unconscious Trixie on her back, and turned to run.

“Ha! There's no chance in Tartarus that I'm going to let my dinner get away, Soul Reaper!” The hollow boomed, jumping an incredible height, towards the two mares. In the next instant, the dragon intercepted him, his blade deflecting an attack from the hollow's claw.

“I am your opponent, Hollow!” The dragon hissed, venomously.

The hollow moved his head to the side. A myriad of black arms popped out of his back, and thrust themselves into the dragon, smashing into his chest and limbs. Crashing to the ground, the dragon gasped for breath.

“Hmph. Pathetic.” the hollow sniffed.

Turning around, he leaped again, and landed in front of Twilight.

“Your scent.” He whispered, sending chills down her spine. “I think I remember it...”

Twilight fear paralyzed her once more.

“Yes...” the hollow breathed, the foul stench of death sailing past Twilight. “I remember, but I thought I already devoured you.” The maleficent creature began to laugh again. “Good,” He said slowly, “I can do it again!”

The hollow's belly twisted and convulsed, a gaping maw revealing itself. Countless vicious teeth lined the edge, ravenously snapping at the air.

“Dragon’s Fire!” A voice behind him hissed. Another ball of glistening, green fire came hurtling towards him, but this time the hollow evaded it.

“Go!” the Soul Reaper shouted, “He's after you; you have to run. Now!”

Twilight looked up at him, her eyes turning to steel.

“He is after me?”

“Yes!” The dragon nodded, desperately. “Hollows hunt down souls with high spiritual pressures, and you have one of the highest spiritual pressures I've ever seen.”

“So that means he's come here because of me, which means... So my parents’ deaths... They were killed by this monster... B-because of me?” Twilight whispered.

“Are you two done yet?” the hollow growled, landing a powerful punch on Twilight's side.

“What're you doing, mare!’’ The dragon yelled, as Twilight crashed into the ground some distance away. The unicorn was lost in thought. Grunting, she got up.

“So this is it. Everypony died on that day because of me... Everypony will end up dead... because of me.” Twilight growled.

The hollow started to run towards her, the mouth on its belly dripping with a black substance.

“I wanted to become stronger, to avenge my parent’s death.” She said softly, tears running down her cheeks. “But that wasn't the only motive - I wanted to become stronger so I could protect my brother, and my friends.” The hollow laughed. “But I’m just not strong enough. But if I die,” the hollow leaped, “Everypony around me will be safe.”

Time paused.

Twilight looked up.

The dragon had leaped in the way, the maw of the hollow's belly was digging its teeth into his left arm. Crimson blood splashed over Twilight’s body.

“Soul Reaper! What've you done!?” Twilight yelled, fear swallowing her. The duo broke apart, the dragon landing in front of Twilight. He had his back to her.

“Because this is also part of my sacred duty.” He whispered, wincing from the pain. “Fuck, this hurts more than I thought. Listen, I’m not powerful enough to defeat this bastard, so... At least, I can try to save you both with my sacrifice."

“Damn it! Why is it that everypony dies, and I can’t do anything?” Twilight screamed, firmly stamping her hoof on the ground. “I can't do fucking anything!” The tears flowed freely now. Never, in all her life, had she felt so completely helpless as she did at that moment. She didn't even know this dragon – this Soul Reaper – and he was sacrificing himself for her! She felt sick.

Utilizing the last of his energy, the dragon vanished, and reappeared before the hollow, lunging at the it with a stiff uppercut. It recoiled violently from the vertical slash, obsidian blood splaying onto the floor. The Soul Reaper leaped back, and kneeled. His arm was heavily injured.

“I don’t know how long I'll last, so please - go.” He grimaced, clutching his arm.

Twilight shook her head, “No. I'm not running – not anymore. I'm not abandoning you – I'm not abandoning anypony... or dragon.” the dragon gave her a hard look. Once again, he saw that admirable determination that had burned through her when she had broken his paralysis spell.

“Thank you.” He breathed. “I cannot fight, but maybe,” the dragon paused, “Maybe you can save us, if you borrow my Soul Reaper powers.”

Her eyes widened, “I can borrow your powers?”

“Yes.” He whispered “I will give you half of my powers, and you can use then to get us out of here.” As he spoke, the dragon turned his sword to her “Just stab yourself here.” motioning to her breast.

“Wait, what? Are you crazy!?” Twilight screeched, her eyes nearly popping out of her head.

“No!” The Soul Reaper hissed, “This is my Zanpakuto! This is a special sword that we use to purify the souls of Hollows. They are also very,” he paused, “Important weapons to us, but I don't have time to explain.”

The hollow had recovered from the attack, and let loose a throbbing roar that shook the ground and rustled the trees.

“Do it now! “The dragon whispered, desperately. “And my name's Spike, by the way.” He managed to pull a pained, but mischievous smirk.

Twilight gave him a hard look.

“Twilight Sparkle,” she breathed. “Let’s hope that our presentation will not also be also our final farewell.” She grinned, and, after placing her hoof on the hilt, she stabbed herself with the sword.

The hollow leaped.

Spike gasped.

An explosion of pink energy filled the area, flowing through the air, easily repelling the hollow's attack.

Spike blinked.

Suddenly, all of the hollow's appendages were cut into fine ribbons. Roaring it stumbled back, searching for his adversary. The smoke cleared.

Standing in the middle of the clearing, Twilight Sparkle was grinning, wielding a giant claymore with her hoof.

Somehow, Ponies can do some ridiculous things with those hooves.

She was clad in the same black samurai robes as Spike had been, and very much looked the part of a Soul Reaper.

Spike lay on the ground, disbelief and horror flooding every fibre of his being.

No! She was only supposed to take half! But she took everything... She took it all! How is that possible? Who is this mare? And how, in Equestria, is her Zanpakuto that big!?

Twilight's eyes emanated a powerful, pink glow. The unicorn glared at the enraged hollow, years of pent up anger and hatred etched onto her face.

"All these years... All these years I've endured such pain, and suffering. All the tears I've shed. You murdered my parents, remember? You've made everypony suffer. Oh, I'm going to make you regret all of it, you demonic bastard!

The hollow chuckled once more, “Do you think that, just because you've stolen some Soul Reaper powers, you'll be able to be-”

Before the hollow could finish its sentence, Twilight assaulted it with a vertical cut from above, almost slicing the creature in half. The blow sent it staggering back a considerable distance, and opened a large, gaping wound, running from its mask, over its entire body. Dark blood spilled out from the deep wound.

“Damned mare, I will feast upon your soul!” The hollow hissed, as it launched another volley of claws from its back. Twilight grinned, her horn bathing the area in a pink light, before she vanished.

Spike, still on the ground, was gazing upwards in awe, as the events unfolded.

Of course. Now the hollow's spiritual pressure isn't affecting her concentration, Twilight can cast spells. This was supposed to be our chance to escape, but Twilight is... completely obliterating an Adjucha class Hollow!”

The mare had teleported herself seconds before the hands converged, and, pathetically, they hit the ground.

“Impossible! Wretched unicorns!” The hollow hissed. In the following instant, the hollow’s left arm flew into the air, leaving behind a smirking Twilight, wielding a now-bloody blade.

“Farewell…” She whispered, melodically, as she applied a deadly hit against his waist with all her strength, slicing his body in half.

The lower half evaporated in a flash blue light. The upper part flew, falling a few metres away.

“I will not be,” the hollow paused, to spit out a sludge of obsidian blood, “Destroyed - by a fake soul reaper - like this!” the hollow roared, starting to disappear in a black smoke. Twilight attempted to rush over and finish him off, but found her body convulsing of its own accord.

Twilight tried to move, but she felt an unbearable pain burn throughout her body. The pain made her collapse on the ground, writhing in agony.

"Why can't I move!?” She screamed, between gasps. “I can't let him escape – not now!" She struggled helplessly on the damp earth.

"You're exhausted from wielding such... incredible power.” Spike paused, “Your body is destroying itself due to your spiritual pressure, you have to stop or else you're going to die, Twilight!"

“You can't be serious?” She moaned as she watched her hatred, personified, escape. “Well that's just fucking convenient!” Twilight shouted sarcastically, a scowl forming on her face.

The hollow completely vanished, and the torrent of roars ceased.

Spike smiled, and collapsed next to Twilight.

“You did it, Twilight.”

“Is it dead?” She growled.

A few seconds of silence passed, before Spike replied.

“No.”

Twilight was silent. After a few seconds she nodded in resignation, and closed her eyes.

The last thing Spike saw, before losing consciousness, was Twilight's huge, violet eyes.

He smiled, inwardly.

She stayed; she stayed to defend me... Thank you, Twilight Sparkle...

The main doors of the school building opened, and a stallion stepped out.
“My, my. What a mess.” He sighed.

Author's Note

*Zanpakuto = Soul-Cutter Sword - The special sword used by the Soul Reapers, it's the only weapon able to purify a Hollow's soul and send it to the other side, cleaning it of all the sins that he/she commited as a Hollow.

(E/N: Needless swearing? Check.
Also sorry about the sporadic usage of “his” and it” to describe the hollow, but I just ended up putting whatever sounded right in each sentence. My brain failing the Rules of Grammar.

Should have the first seven chapters out within the next two weeks. Enjoy.)

Volume 2 - Sisterly Bonds - Part 1

If I were the rain
could I connect with someone's heart?
Just as it can unite
the eternally separated earth and sky?

“Twili!” Shining Armor's voice echoed throughout the corridors of the small house, and into the bedroom of his younger sister.

Shining? I'm home? How'd I get here?

A drowsy Twilight unveiled herself from her azure blanket. Her appearance was, perhaps, even worse than the previous day. Almost tripping over her own hooves, she got out of bed and left the room, not bothering to sort out her bedhead. Still half asleep, Twilight entered the kitchen, and was welcomed by her older brother's surprised smile.

Eurgh, I feel horrible.

“Hey! What happened? Did you get hit by a truck while I was gone, or something?” He giggled, raising his eyebrows.

Twilight crawled onto her chair, and leant her head on the table.

“I think I just had the craziest dream about Soul Reapers and Spirits… Eurgh, and I feel horrible.” She proceeded to ram her head against the table repeatedly, letting out small whimpers between each thud.

Levitating a plate of hot, fresh muffins, Shining Armor went to his sister's side, and placed it in front of her.

“I see. Soul Reapers and Spirits?.” He commented, “Are you reading those horror novels again?” The stallion picked up a muffin in his magical field, and sat on the opposite chair.

“Shining, you know I'm not into that kind of thing…” Twilight lied, sheepishly, as she twiddled her hooves nervously.

Shining Armor raised his eyebrows again, a mischievous smile danced across on his lips, even with his mouth full of muffin.

"Oh yeah? Must I remind somepony of a certain incident, involving Nightmare Night, a collection of Edgar Allan Pony, and a wet bed?”

Twilight's cheeks glowed a burning red.

"T-That was six years ago! I was just a filly, okay!" She protested.

"Oh?” Shining chortled, crumbs falling from his mouth, “And what about that shock you had, when some crows landed on your window, about two months ago? I'm sure I saw a few comic books then, too!"

Twilight felt her cheeks igniting, and she wished she had something as equally as embarrassing to unveil about him. Sadly, she had nothing.

"I-I... Can you stop teasing me, big bro!"

The stallion couldn't contain his giggles, as he clutched his sides and rolled around on the floor. Twilight wore a very unimpressed expression.

“Seriously, Shining, how old are you?”

“Aww, C'mon, Twili, where's your sense of humor?” he grinned, and hugged his sibling from behind.

“It's clearly more refined than yours.” Twilight grumbled, trying not to smile. Shining released his sister and shoved the final piece of his muffin into his mouth.

"I'm sorry, it's just so cute when you get embarrassed.” He smiled, ruffling her hair. “Don't worry Twili; it's just between us."

Twilight grunted, and Shining started laughing again, as the mare rammed her head against the table.

Still chuckling, he used his magic to levitate a retro, blue coat. It was long and the sleeves ran all the way down his forehooves. After he put it on, he trotted over to a small table, with the telephone on it. Starting the answering machine, he glanced in the mirror.

“Twili, were there any calls for me while I was gone?” He asked, as he inspected his appearance.

Twilight shook her head, her mouth full of muffin.

“That's a first; usually I have a plenty from work waiting for me when I get back.” He shuddered at the memory. “I guess, in Ponyville, they do things a little differently- Oh there's one message. Let's see.”

Twilight felt her heart sink, and her body freeze, as the message from Heterochrome replayed.

Dammit, why can't my life just be cliché, and have me wake up to find it was all a dream?

She felt herself whimper softly, as cold sweat rolled down her neck. Her brother was frowning as he glanced at her.

“Monster in your school? Did your friend read that collection of yours, too?”

“Shining!” Twilight fumed, before she realized she was digging herself a hole. “Oh, wait, yeah. That must be it! Chrome gets so absorbed in those stories, so sometimes she takes them a little seriously.” She gave her most convincing grin, trying to mask her apprehension.

Shining Armor couldn't help but raise an eyebrow; Twilight's signature 'convincing grin' gave him the impression that, whatever the truth was, he probably didn't want to know.

“Well,” He paused, unsure of how to change the subject. “I’m relieved you've made a friend already.”

Who she's already leant her favourite collection of horror comics to? I thought she was going to murder me when I took a peek at one.

Twilight could read what was on his mind; her brother was a professional detective, and that was a terrible lie. It wouldn't have fooled a filly for a second.

“I have to go to the station.” Shining stated, interrupting her thoughts. “Good luck on your classes. I love you, Twili.”

Twilight suppressed the overwhelming urge to sigh in relief.

“Thanks, Shining. I love you too.” Twilight replied.

The stallion smiled one last time at her, as he exited through the door.

Eurgh. Seriously, why didn't I delete that message? The last thing I want to do is to drag Shining into this mess. I doubt he'd be too pleased to know I've befriended a dragon... Wait, where did that dragon go? Did he return to Spiritual Equestria, or something?

Twilight realized the last thing she could remember the night prior was blacking out after she killed that Hollow.

Almost killed.

Remembrance of this soured her mood.

Forcing all thoughts of Hollows, Soul Reapers, and spirits of the dead, to the back of her mind, she returned to her room to sort out her dishevelled mane.

Hours later, Twilight was relieved to be back at the school, which at least promised the illusion of normality. She trotted all the way to the main building, glancing at the step, shuddering as she recalled the events of the previous night. Once again, she forced the thoughts to the back of her mind, and walked inside.

“Ah, Miss Sparkle!”

A short, white, earth pony, with a graying mane, motioned for her to come over.

"Miss Sparkle! I'm glad I saw you. I'd just like to give you your locker key." the receptionist said, as she smiled and produced a locker key, seemingly from nowhere.

"Oh, thanks." Twilight said, berating herself for forgetting her locker; it'd be so much easier to leave some of her books at the campus.

"You're welcome, my dear, although don't you dare vandalise them, or mark my words, I will make you regret you ever had a horn." The mare hissed as her smile vanished, replaced by a menacing glare.

"Oh, erm, okay?" Twilight asked, before trotting off hastily with her key, slightly unnerved by the bipolar mare.

As she searched for a her locker, she began to wonder what had happened the previous evening.

Where's Spike? And Trixie? How did I wake up in my bed this morning? And why do I get the horrible feeling I'm missing something really obvious?

Twilight groaned, as she found her locker and banged her head against it. Why couldn't these thoughts just leave her alone? As she placed some books in it, two stallions appeared behind her.

Oh, please not now!

Batting the thoughts away again, she swung around, her temper snapping.

“What do you want?” she yelled, as she launched one of Trixie's 'bodyguards' against the lockers with her magic.

As her eyes met with the other, she saw only fear.

“Please! We don’t want to fight or anything!” He squealed.

Twilight frowned, but released the first from her magic clutch, tapping her hoof against the ground as she waited for a more elaborate answer.

“We're just here to ask if you know what happened to our- I mean, Trixie. She's not here, and she's never missed a day of school in the three years she's been here!”

Twilight smiled knowingly.

“Sorry guys, I didn’t see Trixie today. I did see her last night, however. I don't think she'll be coming in today.”

The twins looked at each other uneasily.

“Thanks, errr, Twilight Sparkle?” The second said, phrasing it more like a question. Twilight nodded, and they raced away, eager to escape. Twilight couldn't help but grin at their skittish antics.

Finally, Twilight had finished organising her books into neat rows in her locker: 'Advanced Magic and Manipulation of the Physical World' textbooks one through to four on the lower shelf, 'The Theory of Magic and its applications in the Non-Physical World' worksheets stacked neatly on the middle shelf, and 'Study of Magic in Ponies' encyclopedias were ordered alphabetically from Alicorn through to Zebras on the upper shelf.

Pleased with her work, she set off for her class, despite being far too early.

Twilight found she was the second to enter her classroom however; a sapphire-maned pegasus was already at a desk.

“Chrome!” Twilight said, a sense of relief flooding through her as she trotted over.

“Ah, Miss Sparkle. I'm glad you responded to my call last night.” Chrome smiled knowingly.

“Please call me Twilight, Chrome.” The mare chuckled as she rolled her eyes and sat at the desk next to her.

“Ah, of course... Twilight.” Chrome replied, almost struggling with the first name, much to Twilight's amusement. “I assume you have many questions, correct?”

Twilight nodded.

“Well, ask away, Twilight.” A familiar voice from across the room called. Twilight glanced around at the newcomer.

Spike stood in the doorway.

Twilight's eyes widened when she saw him. Leaping out of her chair, she yelped in surprise.

“You! What the hell are you doing here?”

“Hey, that's not the proper way to welcome to a new classmate.” Spike grinned mischievously. He walked over to the two mares, and offered his claw to Twilight.

“My name is Spike, nice to meet you!”

She hit the top of his head with her hoof.

“Are you mocking me?” Twilight yelled.

Chrome laughed, adjusting her glasses.

“She's right Spike; you don’t need to pretend you two don’t know each other in front of me.”

Twilight swivelled around to face Chrome.

“What? You know about-“

“Yes, she knows about the whole Hollow and Soul Reaper thingy” Spike interrupted.

“But how in Equestria-?”

“Don't worry; Miss Heterochrome and I have our reasoning. Follow me. I want to be sure no one overhears us.”

Twilight just stared at Spike, but reluctantly followed him. He lead Twilight all the way back to an isolated spot behind the main building.

“Okay, no one can hear us. Can you start explaining what the hell is going on?” Twilight demanded, as she sat on a bench, scowling.

Spike nodded, and sat on the ground.

“You're a very hot-headed young mare, Twilight Sparkle.” Spike sighed.

“Don’t start beating around the bush! Why're you still here? Don’t you have to go back to Spiritual Equestria?”

The dragon feigned a hurt look.

“You want to get rid of me that badly?” He said, earning a very unimpressed look from Twilight.

Spike laughed, “No, sadly things aren't so simple, Miss Sparkle. First of all, I cannot go back to Spiritual Equestria because,”

He got up and yelled in her face,

“You stole all my Soul Reaper powers!”

Twilight’s face twisted in confusion.

“Huh?”

Spike faceclawed.

“What? I’m not wearing that robe anymore!” Twilight complained.

The dragon sighed, “Look, it is not your body that becomes a Soul Reaper, it is your soul. My powers are inside of you, within your spirit.”

Twilight looked at herself. She didn't feel any different.

“Oh… I see.” She said slowly, as she tried to convince herself.

“And now I have to be trapped inside this weak, artificial, mortal body!” Spike complained.

Twilight raised her hoof.

“Wait! What do you mean by that?”

“My soul is inside a Gigai. It's a fake, mortal body that we use in case of an emergency. With this I can recover from my wounds and hide myself from the hollows.”

Twilight nodded.

“Ah, so that's how Chrome was able to see you.” She realized. She looked back to him intently, “But, why have you come to me?”

The dragon smiled awkwardly.

“Well, Miss Sparkle. I need a favor. While I recover my powers, you must be my substitute Soul Reaper and fulfil all my duties.”

Twilight felt her eye twitch.

“Come again?”

“I need you to kill some more hollows, and free some more spirits.” Spike replied bluntly.

With a wide, open mouth, and eyes big as apples, she let the words process.

“WHAAAAAT?!” She shrieked.

He looked up and smiled.

“You have all my powers now. Only a Zanpakuto can purify a hollow’s soul and send a plus to the other world. Without one, I can’t do a thing.”

The mare started to shake her head violently.

“No! I'm not going to fight another monster!” Twilight yelled. Spike raised his eyebrows at her.

“But you already fought one! C'mon I'll stay by your side and give you the instructions and train you-“

“Sounds enthralling, but I said no.” Twilight said, interrupting the dragon. “I had my motives to fight. I'm not going to risk my life for the same ponies who abandoned me and my brother! No one came to help us that day, why should I have to help them now?”

She turned away.

Spike's nostrils flared, eliciting smoke.

“You're a very self-centered mare!” He yelled, visibly irritated. “Don't you understand?”

“No, don't you understand, little dragon? This isn't my battle. This isn't my war. I never asked for any of this. And if you had asked me, I would have rejected you.”

Spike ground his teeth.

“If you want to learn the lesson the hard way…” He growled, his expression growing serious. He picked from one of his pockets a red glove, with a strange symbol on it. After putting in his claw, he rushed in Twilight’s direction.

“I’m going to teach you the hard way.”

His claw collided with her chin. Instantly, Twilight felt herself fall backwards and yet stay standing at the same time. The feeling made her feel nauseous. She looked at Spike with a questioning expression.

“What have you done to me?”

“I separated your soul from your body. Now get up and come with me.” The dragon ordered.

Twilight glanced down at herself... and then at her body. The same sick feeling pressed upon her. Her soul wore the black robe of the night before, and her sword was inside of a giant sheath on her back. Her body, next to her, still wore her school uniform.

Unsure of what else to do, Twilight hesitantly followed the dragon, as he lead her all the way to a distant park, on the outskirts of Ponyville.

“What're we doing here?” Twilight asked, noticeably irritated by the fact that she was missing classes.

“Wait just a little...” Spike said softly. He was looking at a green-colored bench in the middle of the park. After a few seconds, a white, pegasus mare came by the bench. Sapphire mane, glasses, school uniform, eyes with opposite colors.

“Chrome? What's she doing here?” Twilight asked, as she started to make her way towards her. Spike raised his claw, halting her.

With care, Chrome picked a vase full of beautiful, yellow flowers from a saddlebag on her side, and placed it on the ground. Twilight was stunned by the next vision; the spirit of a beautiful, female pegasus appeared at Chrome's side, and gently embraced the student.

“The Soul Reaper came to my school today... Please, it's already time for you to go.” Chrome said. The duo could hear the pain in Chrome's voice. It cracked several times, and it was clear she was on the verge of tears.

“Wait.” Twilight exclaimed, “Chrome can see ghosts like me?”

Spike shook his head.

“No. But she can hear them. And that spirit is... Special.”

The spirit smiled, and started to talk with the pegasus, “You're still trying to bare this burden by yourself, aren't you?”

Chrome nodded.

“Yes. But I know I’m close to finding a way to bring him back! Please, accept the Konso*.” She whispered.

The spirit brushed her hoof against Chrome's skin, raised her head, and kissed her on the forehead.

“I can’t. I can't go. Not yet. I’m sorry my dearest, but I can’t let you do this alone. I have to share this pain with you.”

A tear rolled down from Twilight’s left eye. She hadn't even noticed it form. Spike, by her side, placed his arm on Twilight's back comfortingly, and closed his eyes in a solemn manner.

“Do you understand what you are seeing here?” He asked.

The Substitute Soul Reaper nodded.

“It’s her mother.” She breathed.

The dragon turned away, and slowly began walking along the path.

“Chrome's entire family was killed by a hollow. Exactly like your family. And, like you, she had an older brother. While Chrome could hear, and feel the presence of, spirits, her brother could only see them. The siblings united their powers to try to exact vengeance upon the monster that destroyed their lives but-”

A monstrous howl penetrated the quiet, halting every actor on the scene in mid-breath. Everypony looked in the same direction.

A giant monster suddenly emerged from a gaping hole in the fabric of reality. His form resembled that of a manticore, but he had no fur, which showed off the demonic, black skin that covered his entire form. He had smaller legs than your average manticore, whereas his arms were significantly larger, reaching the ground. His fingers ended in razor-blade claws that put Spike to shame, and he had a white mane on his head. His face was covered by a white mask, resembling a lion's face, and yet the only thing with life there were the holes where his eyes should have been, which glowed a hazardous yellow.

“A hollow!” Spike gasped.

Upon the vision of the monster, Chrome’s mother immediately stepped up to protect her child.

“What’s happening, mom?” The pegasus asked, looking in the complete wrong direction.

“There’s a hollow here, Chrome. You must leave.” She breathed.

Meanwhile, Twilight looked to Spike, clearly alarmed.

“Why is there a hollow here, Spike?” Twilight asked.

“Well... You, me, Chrome and her mother... We all have high density spiritual energies, and we're all in the same place. A hollow looking for a good meal was bound to come here eventually.”

The gigantic monster's eyes fell upon Chrome, and he started to run in her direction. The mare gasped when she finally noticed the ground being smashed by his presence.

“Please, my dear - run!” Her mother cried.

“But he'll eat you, mom! I can’t leave you!” Chrome sobbed, tears rolling freely down her face.

The monster rushed forward and, without any difficulty, took Chrome’s mother in one of his hands. The spirit screamed in agony, and her child screamed with her, as she heard her mother's suffering.

“I can’t take this anymore!” Twilight stepped up, attempting to intervene, but found something holding her back.

Spike was holding her tail.

“What the hell are you doing!?” She screeched.

“Why are you going to help them?” he asked, with a serious expression.

“They're right in front of me! And because…” she stopped mid-sentence, feeling the pain of her own history repeating itself before her.

“Do you think you can help just the ones right in front of you? Are you not forgetting something?” Spike was expressionless. Emotionless. It was driving Twilight insane.

“What are you talking about?” She screamed.

“Wake up, Twilight! Yesterday you didn’t even know Chrome! And every day, a life, just like yours, is destroyed by a hollow... Do you think you are special because you suffered? Do you think you can just claim that nopony helped you, and simply close your eyes to the truth?”

The dragon was interrupted by a raging Twilight.

“I don’t care! What makes me different from them? Why am I the only one that has to fight?”

“It's because of this!” Spike's claw formed a fist, which hit her on the muzzle. The normally calm dragon looked down at Twilight on the ground.

“Get up! I know that didn’t hurt.”

Pressing her hoof on her nose, the lavender unicorn slowly raised her body, muttering a stream of curses that should not be repeated.

“The difference,” Spike growled, “Is that you have the strength! You can use your powers to protect the powerless, or else, you are no different than those filthy hollow scum.

“Now, swear upon the sword that you carry that you will help everypony! Swear upon that blade you carry, Twilight, that you will never let a tragedy, like the one that fell upon you, happen again!”

Twilight grimaced.

“I see... It seems there is no other choice.” She said softly, closing her eyes.

The Hollow opened its gigantic mouth, revealing three rows of sharp teeth. He was about to swallow Chrome’s mother, when a massive claymore, propelled by a pink aura, came spinning past him.

The blade cut the monster’s arm clean off, releasing the spirit from his grasp. The hollow roared, taking a step backward, as he attempted to see who was responsible for the loss of his limb.

He looked around, until his vision focused on a lavender unicorn running in his direction. Blinded by his instinctive fury, the hollow started to charge at her.

The two were going to collide.

The monster lifted his arm to apply a punch against Twilight, but the mare stopped and activated her magic. The blade, which was sticking out of the ground behind the Hollow, was called back to its master. Its spinning motion passed straight through the monster's arm, severing his other limb before his attack could connect.

The unicorn jumped, plucking her claymore from the air with her teeth, and brought it swinging round in a single horizontal slash to the neck. The Hollows head barely disconnected from it's body, before it evaporated into nothingness.

Spike looked at the scene with a content smile, and began pondering.

She can combine her magic with a pretty brutal Zanjutsu*... I cannot blame her though; she has the most absurd Zanpakuto in terms of length.

Author's Note

*Konso = Soul Burial - It's the act of a Soul Reaper send a plus to the other side.

*Zanjutsu = Blade Arts - The techniques of melee fight using the Zanpakuto used by the Soul Reapers.

Volume 2 - Sisterly Bonds - Part 2

The hollow evaporated away, and Twilight sheathed her blade as she ran over to help the spirit of Chrome’s mother.

“Are you okay?” She asked.

The spirit nodded, and got up, “Yes. Tell me, child, are you really a Soul Reaper?” she breathed.

“Yes. At least, for now anyway.”

The spirit nodded faintly and looked over to her daughter, smiling sadly, “Please, Soul Reaper. Help my foolish child, for she will not listen to me.”

“What happened?” Twilight asked, frowning. “Why can’t you accept the Konso?”

“Talk to her, and you will understand.” The spirit said softly, before vanishing. Confused, Twilight galloped over to Chrome, who lay sprawled on the dirt-road, tears streaming down her face.

“Miss Heterochrome! Are you hurt?” Spike called from behind the unicorn as he ran over. The pegasus shook her head in negation as the dragon helped her to her hooves.

“Don’t worry, Spike; my mother protected me,” she paused to wipe her tears and hide her pained expression, “Once again.”

“Spike, what's going on? Where did Chrome's mom go?” Twilight demanded.

Chrome looked over in the direction of Twilight’s voice, “Miss Sparkle?” She gasped, “So it's true: you're a Soul Reaper.” Chrome managed a weak smile.

Twilight laughed timidly in response.

“So,“ Spike said, grinning, “What's your answer, substitute Soul Reaper?”

Twilight smiled and offered her hoof to the dragon.

“Don’t let me down.” Spike continued, clenching his claw into a fist, and bumped her hoof.

“I won't.” Twilight said solemnly, “I won't let Chrome down either. Or Shining.”

Twilight's expression twisted as if she was in pain, however, as she turned back to Chrome. The pegasus in question was sat on her hind legs, staring at the floor. She was holding back tears, but occasionally she whimpered pitifully.

“Chrome, I saw your mom-” Twilight's began, but her voice broke as she her own memories involuntarily came rushing back to her. Shaking them away, she continued, “S-she asked me to help you, but I don't know what she means. Why won't she accept the Konso?”

Chrome looked up, pain etched clearly onto her face. “Miss Sparkle, Mister Spike,” she sniffed, her voice protesting, “Can you wait until tonight, and then come over to my house? I swear I will tell you everything there. Please; I just need some time to myself right now.”

Spike nodded understandingly. “We will be there tonight at sunset, Chrome.” He said softly, before Twilight could protest.

Chrome nodded and stood up. Before taking off, she gave them the faintest of smiles. Twilight could only watch as she left, feeling a vein throb in her forehead.

As soon as she was out of earshot the unicorn swivelled to face Spike, “You know something I don’t.” She said, simply.

Spike glanced round, unsurprised. “That mare and I, we...” Spike said softly, pausing, “I wasn't planning to drag you into this so soon, but there is no turning back now.” Sadness was engraved onto his face.

Twilight gave him a sour look, “Did I ever tell you I hate it when ponies hide things from me?” She growled, the venom was clear in her voice.

The sound of an ambulance stopped the discussion before it could even begin, however. The duo watched it passed, driving in the direction of the school.

Spike frowned, “Where did we leave your body?” He asked, slowly.

“Behind one of the buildings.” Twilight replied. Chills ran down her spine as realization hit her. “Oh for the love of...”

“We need to get back to the University.” Spike stated, interrupting the unicorn's cursing.

Twilight nodded, and said, “Hold me.”

A smirk crossed Spike's face. “Well, this is escalating quickly.” He giggled, waggling his eyebrows.

Twilight scowled, and growled impatiently, “Just do it.”

Spike sighed, placing his claw on Twilight's shoulder. Clearly she still hadn't forgiven him for forcefully evicting her soul from her body.

“Sorry, Twilight.” Spike said softly, as the duo were engulfed in a shimmering lavender light. The following moment, the light vanished, leaving not a trace in its wake.

Only one pony happened to see either of the pair vanish in a flash of violet light.

“My, my.” He chuckled.

“I can't believe it. I missed three classes because of that! Three!” Twilight fumed. “How do medical examinations even take that long?” She stamped her hooves on the ground, emphasizing her distress. “And on top of that,” she continued, “Shining made me explain everything, thanks to my teachers calling him over to the school! Luckily he's the kind of brother that swallows almost all my excuses, but sheesh! I felt like it was an interrogation!”

The combo were walking towards the door of an impressive, white house. The fiery, orange effulgence of dusk was already bleeding across the sky, casting lengthy shadows across the freshly-cut grass. Soft rustling of trees complimented the mild breeze that sailed over their heads.

Spike merely shrugged, “The medical procedures in this world are a lot more,” he paused, “Smothering.” Spike giggled as he knocked on the door.

“I missed all my classes today, and it's only my second day!” Twilight complained. “How is this going to look on my report? What if I miss some important notes?” Twilight stiffened. “What if I have a test on them!?”

Twilight was about to start hyperventilating, but was interrupted by Chrome opening the door in front of her.

“Miss Sparkle, Mister Spike.” She greeted, smiling. “Thanks for coming, I'm sorry for making you wait all day. I'll explain inside.”

Chrome motioned for them to enter and retreated back inside her house. The duo climbed the entrance stairs, and followed her.

The inside was peculiar, put bluntly; everything was white, from the ceiling to the walls and floor. Even the furniture was an unsullied shade of white, and camouflaged in with their surroundings rather effectively. It reminded Twilight of something out of a Sci-fi.

Chrome noticed that Twilight was looking around at the room with discomfort, “Is this place not to your liking, Miss Sparkle?”

“I’m sorry Chrome. I don’t like hospitals.” Twilight responded stiffly.

Chrome chuckled unconvincingly as she led them to the center of the living room. She picked up a remote control, and pressed a button, revealing a hidden trap door on the floor. Twilight glanced down into the darkness, and could just make out some steps leading to a secret basement. Violet lights pierced the darkness, and ominous shadows clawed their way towards them.

“Please, come in,” Chrome said. “It will be easier to explain if you see him first-hand.”

Unease crept over Twilight as she nodded. Chrome descended the steps, and was promptly followed by Spike, who looked completely unfazed by the intimidating prospect of the unknown. Twilight was the last one. As she began the descent into the hidden room, she glanced back at the sterile room she was departing, and hardened her resolve.

The huge stairway lead to a deep chamber. Doubts filled the Twilight's head as she walked.

I don’t know what's down here, but Chrome sure doesn’t want anyone getting in.

“We're not very different, you and I, Miss Sparkle,” Chrome said, suddenly. “We were both born with the ability to interact with the spirits of the dead. As a direct result of this-” Chrome hesitated, “This gift, these monsters, these Hollows, prey on us without mercy.”

The group reached a large, iron door. Once again, Chrome used the remote control to open the contraption. It opened to reveal a spacious chamber, as white as the rest of the house, and illuminated with blinding white light. Dotted around the chamber were the strangest gadgets that Twilight had ever seen. A recognizable sensation washed over her.

Twilight stiffened.

I know this feeling.

The all-too-familiar feeling tingled down her spine.

At the center of the chamber stood an iron cage that dangled a few inches off the ground, suspended by a thick chain from the ceiling. The inside was so dark that the contents could not be seen.

“Five years ago, a hollow killed my parents and almost killed me,” Chrome explained. “I was saved by my brother, White Cloud. It's funny, actually; he had the ability to see spirits, but not hear them.” Chrome didn't give any other hint of a joke. “That was a dark night. Even now, it haunts my dreams.

“We were consumed by hatred, and together we vowed to bring down the hollow that destroyed our lives.”

As Chrome finished, she stopped in front of a strange machine, hooked to the cage by many large cables. The only feature of the apparatus that Twilight could identify was a hole on the middle of the surface which looked perfect for a pony’s hoof.

“We built this place together, you know. Just him and I.” Chrome said, her voice beginning to strain. “We used it as our research center into the hollows, and as our little operations base against them. With it, we constructed weapons to combat them but-”

The darkness inside the cage stirred. Twilight gasped as she realized what was she was seeing.

Resting, just behind the bars, was the figure of a pony. Or, at least, what was once a pony; it no longer had a coat, as if it had been scorched off, and its skin was as the color of charcoal. Its mane and tail were chalk-white, contrasting its body, and its hooves were mutated into something that vaguely resembled the claws of a dragon. Instead of wings, two long appendages stretched from the top of its shoulders. They twitched as the creature's chest rose for each breath. Or what was left of its chest, at least; in the middle of it, there was a large black hole. The creature bore resemblance to that of a hollow, and yet it looked more like a sick, twisted version of an equine.

It was asleep.

“-We never managed to slay a single one. We confronted them, but in the end we were always defeated. I think we'd be dead many times over now, if the Soul Reapers hadn't come to save us.”

“That’s how we know each other,” Spike, who had been silent until now, spoke up. He turned to Chrome, “But even being that close to death never stopped you from foolishly attempting suicide, Chrome.”

Twilight was still frozen in place, unsure of what to do; in front of her, in a cage, was a subdued hollow. Or something that bore resemblance to one. She realized she had no blade while she was inside her body. Seemingly unaware of the danger, Chrome placed her hoof on the surface of the machine. She looked around, and smiled weakly, only to be betrayed by the tears forming in her eyes.

“The day that Spike saved us-” she paused, “My brother ran away. He was so angry, angry with himself; he said he was weak, that he had deserved to d-die at the hands of that... that Hollow-” Chrome legs buckled, and she fell to the floor, in a fit of tears. “He-he left me all alone,” she wailed. “He went to continue the hunt alone, to find a way to be stronger than the hollows.”

Spike walked over and put his arm over Chrome's shoulders.

“He tried, but he failed. I thought I was alone, I thought I'd lost him, but those monsters – no - they didn’t even give to him a chance to be their food;” the pegasus motioned to the cage.

“They turned him into this!” She spat. “They warped and twisted both his body and mind, and now... this is all that's left.

Twilight stiffened.

“Hollows are instinctive creatures,” Spike said callously, “But these are the instincts of predators that hunt in packs, like wolves. White Cloud had a strong spiritual pressure, and that attracted the Hollows, and they realized he would be a strong asset to their ranks. A strong member in the pack, means better chances of acquiring better prey.”

The machine had started while they spoke, making strange noises. Suddenly, Chrome cried out. Twilight gasped and moved to help the mare, but Spike stopped her.

“That machine is her invention, Twilight.”

Twilight glanced uncertainly at Chrome, who lay on the floor gasping, and then to the cage. The cage was now bathed in a blue light, and the wires hummed, awakening the monstrosity inside. It let out a window-shattering roar and attempted to destroy its prison. The cage trembled violently, but then the motion ceased and the creature collapsed in exhaustion.

“What's happening, Spike?” Twilight yelled, “Why is Chrome hurting herself?”

“This machine is both a fantastic invention and a terrible evil; it takes pieces of her soul and converts them into Spiritual Energy. It travels through the cables and into the cage, and her brother absorbs the energy. This is how Chrome has managed to keep him here: she is feeding her brother with her own soul.”

The constant humming of the machine died down, and the cables returned to their metallic coloration. Chrome fell to the ground, exhausted, and breathing heavily.

Twilight ran to the pegasus, “Chrome! Are you okay?” She shouted, her voice thick with concern. “How was she was able to bring him here if she can’t even see Hollows?” Twilight asked Spike.

“Because it was me and my squad that captured him,” the dragon replied.

The unicorn looked up at Spike, and gave him a questioning stare.

“I begged Mister Spike to bring him here, Twilight; I don’t have anypony else in this world. I don’t want to be alone!” Chrome sobbed as held her knees, and rocked back and forth, “I keep trying to reverse what they did. But until that time comes, this is the only thing that I can do.”

Twilight could only stare.

Chrome was right: We aren't very different... Shining is all I have.

Twilight realized she couldn't even imagine a world without her brother.

“But Spike said that when a soul becomes a hollow, there’s no way to bring it back.” Twilight said.

Chrome lowered her head, “I know! But I have to try, Twilight; He's my brother.” She said quietly, “He's my only family, and I can't just give up-” her voice cracked, as she broke down into another fit of tears. “I-I can't just give up on him! He was there for me, and I wasn't there for him,” Chrome yelled, “This is my fault!”

Spike intervened, “That doesn't make sense, Chrome! You couldn't have done anything. You can't blame yourself. Not when it was my duty, as a Soul Reaper to protect you.” Spike shook his head, “If you let him be purified by a Zanpakuto, his soul will be able to go to the other side and rest. Why do you keep him here, Chrome?” Spike was yelling now, “Why do you make him suffer like this?”

“You're a Soul Reaper,” the pegasus screamed, “You will never understand!”

The dragon was about to say more, but Twilight placed a hoof on his shoulder.

“Don’t waste your breath, Spike,” she said softly, and trotted towards the stairs without looking back. “She's trapped inside her own Tartarus, and nopony but herself can help her escape.” Twilight stopped at the door, and glanced back. “I'm not going to try and change your mind, Chrome, but remember: whether he's your brother or not, he's a Hollow. If he escapes, I will do what is required of me.”

And with that, she continued out the door.

Spike watched her leave, before glancing down at the distraught pegasus.

“I'm sorry I couldn't save him, Chrome.” He said softly, before following Twilight, leaving Chrome to her own thoughts.

Volume 2 - Sisterly Bonds - Part 3

The sky was perfect, a sight that Twilight rarely witnessed back in Canterlot. There wasn't a cloud in sight, and the stars twinkled cozily around a beautiful, silver moon as rays of brilliant moonlight cast bewitching shadows across the ground.

Twilight lumbered slowly along the road, leaving Chrome's house behind her. She didn't look back as her head swam with thoughts.

Her peaceful reticence was interrupted, however, as Spike burst from the house, and ran to catch up with the purple mare.

“Wait up, Twilight,” he called. “Where're we going?”

The unicorn stopped, and let out a soft sigh.

“How’s her mother involved in this mess?” she growled.

The dragon sighed, “She's supporting Chrome, emotionally as well as lending her strength. Chrome's chipping away at her own soul. The only reason she's lasted this long is because of her mother. Any other pony would be dead by now.”

“Chrome's mom's keeping her alive?” Twilight questioned.

Spike nodded, “She's using her spiritual energy to heal Chrome’s spirit each time she visits her.”

Twilight's temples throbbed as her eyes burned. Her mane jutted out at odd angles, and her stomach informed her she had been neglecting it for some time now. She elicited another sigh.

Today has been a long day. Too long.

Sadly, she knew her day was far from over. A Hollow sitting in the basement of someone's house? That's just begging for trouble.

“I have to speak with her mother again, Spike.”

The dragon in question scratched his head, “But you're going to be late back to your house if we-”

“I don’t care.” Twilight interrupted, walking in the direction of the park, “We need to find the Hollow that killed Chrome's family.”

“The Hollow’s dead.” the dragon stated.

“Huh?” Twilight did a doubletake. “So this isn’t about revenge at all. She just wants her brother back.”

The dragon nodded, and Twilight stared back at the house.

We’re not so different, you and I.

Twilight glanced around the gloomy park. It was a lot more sinister in the dark; the gnarled branches of the trees stretched towards her, imitating claws. The night air was growing chilly, and the grass rustled gently in the breeze. A large, full moon was the lone lightsource of the night as it shined dark rays of light across the grounds, mottling everything indigo. In the middle of the park the ghostly image of Chrome’s mother sat upon a bench.

She stared at the ground, tears blemishing her pale cheeks, as she played with a chain tied to her chest. Twilight hadn’t noticed the strange linkages shackled to the pegasus’ chest until now. Clearly time had got the best of it; most of the kinks were riddled with rust, to the point they had disintegrated. The mare glanced uneasily at Spike.

“What’s with the chain attached to her chest?”

“That’s the Chain of Fate. When a soul exits the body, this chain acts as an anchor, linking the two together. When your body dies, that chain is severed, and if your spirit remains in this world, the severed chain will remain attached to your spiritual form.”

“And the rust?” Twilight asked.

“If your spirit spends too long in this world, your Chain of Fate will begin to rust. If it corrodes entirely, your soul corrodes away too, until all that’s left is a shell of your former self. Until all that’s left is a Hollow.”

Twilight’s jaw dropped as she scrambled for words.

“Wait, so... so does this mean that if her mother keeps refusing the Konso, she’ll also turn into a Hollow?”

The dragon simply nodded. The purple mare’s gaze returned to Chrome’s mother, who had curled up on the bench, and was sobbing silently.

“Wait here.” she whispered.

Twilight trotted over to the pegasus, and sat on the bench beside her. She looked up at the substitute Soul Reaper with an unsurprised expression, and wiped away her tears.

“Hello again, my dear. Did you talk with my stubborn child?” she asked softly, a small smile creeping across her face.

Twilight nodded somberly, “Yeah, and now I understand. You know what’ll happen to you if you don’t accept the Konso, right?”

The mare’s cheek twitched, and the smile distorted, “Yes. But I can’t abandon my child. That’s why I’m still attached to this world, Miss Sparkle; I can’t leave my only living child alone.”

Grief tittered around Twilight’s stomach, as familiar memories filled her head. She glanced up at the moon again.

“My mom died protecting me the same way you did protecting your children. I thought it was my fault, and I blamed myself.” her gaze returned to pegasus in front of her. “I have an older brother too. His name’s Shining Armor. He protected me from myself; he told me it wasn’t my fault... I would do anything for my brother. I can understand what Chrome’s trying to do.”

“What’re you trying to tell me, my dear?” Chrome’s mother asked.

Twilight shivered slightly in the chilling night air, “Chrome reminds me of myself. I know if I had kept blaming myself, I wouldn’t be here. If Chrome keeps blaming herself, I worry if she’ll kill not only herself, but maybe others around her.

“Now that I have these powers, I know I can make a difference.” Twilight said, determination emblazoned in her eyes. “I know I can protect many ponies, but... I can’t protect somepony from their own foolishness: I can’t save Chrome from herself.”

The mare smiled kindly, “You are brave, Miss Sparkle. But you’re wrong: you can save Chrome. I know you can.” she sighed, “My time on this world is almost at its end, and I can’t protect her any longer.”

A single link from the chain fell to the ground, withering away as it dissolved into rust. The pegasus watched it fall solemnly.

“This isn’t your responsibility anymore. It never should have been. That responsibility should have been taken from your shoulders when you died. You’ve given your life to her, and she’s throwing it away, making your whole family suffer. You were never protecting her; you were helping her destroy herself.”

The pegasus lowered her head as the Chain of Fate eroded even more.

“I know… deep inside I’ve always known. But I can’t leave my daughter all alone-”

Twilight placed a hoof on the mare’s shoulder, “No. She won’t be alone; she’s got her friends. We are her friends.”

The pegasus raised her head, tears shimmering in her eyes.

“Trust me.” Twilight reassured her.

Spike approached the pair, his crimson glove already on his claw.

“Are we ready?

The pegasus nodded meekly. She closed her eyes, and started to cry.

“Tell Chrome I love her. I-I love her so, so much.”

Thank you, Twilight Sparkle.

The sun rose in the sky, banishing the cold and dark of night. The celestial body dyed the horizon a beautiful mix of orange and crimson, and stirred the residents of Ponyville from their slumber.

Heterochrome was already up early that morning. She went about her usual routine, as she prepared herself for the day ahead. After gathering her books, she stepped outside and reveled in the brilliant sunrise.

“Good morning, Chrome!”

The voice startled the pegasus as she yelped in surprise, swivelling around to face her unknown visitor. Twilight stood at the bottom of the stairs, smiling as she waved her hoof. The pegasus grinned sheepishly, and trotted slowly to her direction.

“Twilight! Why’re you here? And so early?”

“Just wanted somepony to talk to before going to class.” she answered quickly, an unconvincing grin contorting her face. “Can we go together today?”

Chrome‘s blushed, “O-of course! You know, after everything that happened yesterday, I was scared you wouldn’t like me anymore.”

Twilight chuckled, “Why I wouldn’t I like you, Chrome? You’re trying to save your brother.”

Chrome beamed and blushed, “Thank you, Miss Sparkle.”

“It’s Twilight!” the unicorn sighed.

“Oh, of course, Twilight.” Chrome corrected, grinning at her audacious informalities.

Twilight smiled, “C’mon, we better get going.”

The unicorn started trotting along the path, and Chrome followed. The two mares walked together towards the campus, the subject of that day's classes being the topic of the journey.

The entire day, the unicorn and the pegasus were together: sitting side to side in their classes, eagerly discussing the work, or eating together during their breaks. Spike kept his distance. Occasionally, the dragon checked his cell phone for Hollows, but the creatures were seemingly absent that day.

Guess we’re lucky today. Hope this Hollow Detector isn’t broken...

Twilight was thankful for the return to semi-normality; it was a refreshing break from the last few days. However the thought of Chrome’s mother never faded from her mind. The only thing she could do was tell herself that it was the right thing to do, and pretend that, maybe, she could believe herself.

“Twilight?”

The unicorn focused, her thoughts interrupted, “Huh?”

“Twilight, you looked like you were about to fall asleep!” Chrome laughed, “I said we should go to the park today.”

Twilight glanced around the emptying classroom. The lecturer had left, and the students were filing out the door.

“O-of course, Chrome.” Twilight said, smiling. She glanced back at Spike, who was leaning back on his seat absentmindedly. He focused his gaze on her and nodded stiffly. Not a word was uttered but the meaning was clear.

Twilight got up and walked towards the door, “Yeah I need to go there anyway...”

That green bench was there, but today it seemed lonelier than the previous. Somehow it appeared more ominous than it did at night. Twilight felt a knot build up in her stomach.

“My mother didn’t die here.” Chrome explained, “She died at our old home, in Manehattan. But every once in a while the whole family would come here to spend the weekend together.” Chrome smiled as she recalled the memory. “We used to have picnics, and we loved this place: peaceful and tranquil Ponyville. That’s why me and White Cloud moved here, and that’s why mom’s spirit is attached to this place... All our most precious memories are here…”

The pegasus stopped speaking as they approached the bench. She glanced around uneasily. The park was too quiet.

“Is she here? Why can’t I hear her?”

Only the the wind answered her questions.

Chrome turned to Twilight, “Can you see her?” she asked.

“She’s not here, Chrome.” Twilight stated.

“W-what do you mean?” Chrome demanded, panic rising in her voice. “Of course she’s here, she’s just... being quiet, right? Being quiet!”

The unicorn shook her head.

“Stop it, Twilight! You’re scaring me.” Chrome shouted, turning back to the bench. “Mom? Mom! Where are you? Stop messing around, it’s not funny!”

“I gave her the Konso, Chrome.”

“You did WHAT!?” the pegasus yelled, leaping in front of Twilight and getting in her face. Rage roared in the furnace of her eyes.

“I gave her the Konso. It’s my duty as a Soul Reaper.” Twilight stated, unflinching.

“How could you? HOW COULD YOU, TWILIGHT?” Chrome screamed, launching herself at Twilight. “YOU BETRAYED ME! WHY?”

The pair fell to the ground, the pegasus pinning the unicorn to the floor.

“You were just pretending to be my friend! It was all just a façade! You betrayed me!” Chrome howled, tears falling from her face in small rivers. With each sentence, she punched Twilight in her chest. “Give me back my mother! Give her back to me!”

Although Chrome wasn’t physically strong, her rage-fueled punches were enough to make Twilight grimace, but she made no attempt to stop her.

“Give her back to me, Twilight Sparkle!” Chrome howled, “I need her! I can’t... I can’t do this without her.”

The vortex of emotions swimming around Chrome’s head began to wane her strength: her final punch faded into a weak slap. She buried her head in Twilight mane and sobbed loudly.

“Nothing can bring her back, Chrome.”

Chrome looked up to see Spike walking over. His expression was torn between sadness and guilt.

“She died.” the dragon continued, “She was trying to help you get over her own death, but you grew so attached to her that she felt like she couldn’t leave this world. And still she didn’t believe that sacrifice was enough, so she started giving her life to you. She was turning into a Hollow, Chrome. A few more weeks, maybe a month, and she’d be just another Hollow rampaging throughout Ponyville.”

“But now... My brother… He’s all I have left.” Chrome wailed.

Twilight slapped the pegasus, “He’s everything you have?” the unicorn shouted, “What about yourself? Don’t you ever consider yourself?”

“None of you understand. I shouldn’t have trusted either of you!” Chrome screamed, her eyes were red from crying.

Spike interrupted the conversation, “Wait... This is-”

An menacing spiritual pressure washed over the party, crushing the breath from their lungs.

“Twilight?” Spike gasped.

The unicorn nodded, “Yeah, I feel it too.” she breathed.

The murmurs were interrupted by a cruel, booming laugh. It reverberated throughout the park, as if being pumped solely through a bass speaker. It rattled their ribs, and shook their heads as the sheer power of the sadistic voice chuckled menacingly.

The group turned around and saw something sitting upon the bench. Its features were horrifically indescribable, and yet Twilight knew that figure well. She knew that familiar voice. This was the hollow responsible for the deaths of Twilight’s family.

“You!” Twilight hissed, immeasurable rage surging forth from somewhere in her heart that she had long forgotten.

“Shadow Seeker…” Spike growled.

“Oh, well at least someponies remember me.” He said, the grin on his mask never fading. Even when he spoke, he sounded like he was laughing menacingly.

“Shadow Seeker? That’s this thing’s name?”

“Hahahahaaaa!” Shadow Seeker snickered, the laugh made Twilight feel sick. “No, my little ponies, that is not my name. Shadow Seeker’s the name those weak Soul Reapers gave to me. Shadow Seeker’s the name those weak Soul Reapers use to fear me.”

“He’s an Adjucha-class hollow.” Spike whispered. “He’s killed countless Soul Reapers, and consumed their souls, and he’s on the top ten wanted list with one of the highest bounties in history. The nickname Shadow Seeker became quite popular.”

Shadow Seeker rose from his seat, and vanished in a cloud of writhing darkness. He reappeared in front of the group, and chuckled to himself.

“I’ve been looking for that good meal this evening, but it seems that pitiful spirit has moved on. But you... wait,” he paused, and turned to Chrome, “You reek of Hollow. Interesting.”

“C’mon, let me out of my body!” Twilight hissed to Spike, “I’ll tear him to pieces.”

“No, there’s something wrong here.” Spike whispered.

The Hollow continued his advance towards the pegasus.

“W-what do y-you want?” Chrome sobbed.

A sound of sick laughter emitted from the monster, “You’re so pathetic, your soul isn’t worth devouring. But the stench of Hollow clings to you like bees to honey.” A pair of black appendages exploded from the Hollow’s back, and one of them picked the pegasus from the ground. “This is most... interesting.” Shadow Seeker chuckled.

Twilight couldn’t endure the scene any longer, and ran towards the Hollow. Shadow Seeker’s eyes darted over to the unicorn, and his chuckling grew in intensity. Four more obsidian appendages rose from the ground beneath her, and latched onto her legs, halting her advance.

“Stay out of this, little pony; I’ll save your soul for later.”

Spike ran to Twilight, but more appendages sprouted from the ground, and wrapped around his ankles and arms, holding him in place. The dragon cursed silently.

With Chrome in a catatonic state, Shadow Seeker raised his claw to her chest. A malevolent, ruby glow encompassed the pegasus.

A few moments passed.

“Ahh, of course. How could I forget?” Shadow Seeker laughed heartily. “That pathetic fool is still alive. Perhaps he won’t be such a meager meal now.”

He lowered Chrome to the ground, and disappeared in an obsidian mist. The hands restricting Spike and Twilight vanished, and the pressure dissipated. The pair ran to Chrome, who lay unconscious.

Twilight glanced uneasily at the dragon, “What did he mean about his meal? Do you think he found about White Cloud.”

“His category of Hollow is known to be cannibalistic, this doesn’t look good.” Spike groaned. “But we can’t let him eat White Cloud; his power will increase even more if we don’t stop him!”

“Spike, we can’t wait any longer. Let me out my body already!” Twilight yelled.

Spike nodded grimly, and withdrew his glove from his pouch.

It’s so cold. How long have I been here?

He woke up, and looked out of his cage. His prison. It was always so dark, and he was always so lonely. Except when she was here.

Memories come back every now and then. Memories of a life I once lived. Memories of a life I once knew.

She came down to keep him company.

How I want to kill her. Why does she keep me here? I want to escape. I need to escape.

He peered out between the bars of his confinement, the darkness seemingly turning into liquid.

Did I commit a Crime? Am I a criminal? Am I a bad pony? Surely that mare is the bad pony; she won’t let me be free. When I escape I will make her pay.

“White Cloud.” A voice hissed. “Wake up, my little abomination.”

He looked around at the seemingly empty room, “Who are you?” he growled.

“Oh, White Cloud you silly pony, I don’t have a name. Don’t you remember me?”

“I hate you. That’s what I remember.” he hissed, the mysterious voice striking angry chords in his head.

“Ah, you were always so... pathetic, White Cloud.” the voice chortled, the shadows solidifying into a horribly familiar form.

“You!” he roared.

“Hehe,” the creature chuckled, “Yes, it’s me.”

Several shadowy tendrils launched from its back, and latched themselves around the bars to the cage. It exploded as it was ripped apart, and the chains on his legs snapped like thin wood.

And then he was free.

“I didn’t create you to be useless. Go and wreak some havoc, or I’ll kill your precious sister…” the creature said.

“I will grow stronger.” he growled, “And I will kill you.”

With that he launched towards the stairs. He was so hungry, and there was so much food around. The smells taunted him. He barely noticed the destruction he left in his wake.

It’s so cold.

Volume 2 - Sisterly Bonds - Part 4

Spike had never run so fast in his life. Adrenaline surged through him as his lungs pumped like bellows. On his back, Chrome was being carried, unconscious, with her hooves wrapped around his neck. As night fell upon the quiet rural town the only sound that could be heard on the deserted trail was the crunch of their steps on the ground. Slowly, the pegasus opened her tired eyes and looked around.

“Spike,” she breathed, “Where is Twilight?

The dragon glanced back and smiled with melancholy, “She went after Shadow Seeker. She’s teleported to your house to make sure White Cloud’s alright.” The dragon returned his focus to his running, and Chrome frowned uneasily.

“Shadow Seeker’s gone to eat my brother?” she whispered.

“I don’t know. Maybe.” Spike sighed, “He was going to devour your mother’s soul, that’s what Hollows do, but since Twilight gave her the Konso, he’s going to be hungry.”

“What about my brother?”

“Chrome, you do realize that if your brother gets out of hand, Twilight will have to purify his soul.”

The pegasus closed her eyes, a deep sense of helplessness washing over her as she faced the undeniable truth.

She opened her eyes, “But-”

“We’ll be there soon.” Spike interrupted, avoiding her gaze.

The darkness of night was absolute until it was torn asunder by a radiant, purple light. Twilight Sparkle gasped as she saw the huge wreckage that was left of Chrome’s house entrance.

Has Shadow Seeker already been here? Has he already eaten White Cloud?

Twilight was about to investigate the house when a sudden explosion startled her.

The sound came from the school campus.

Another teleport spell later, and Twilight reappeared on top of one of the walls that encircled the main building. She inhaled sharply when she saw some students, whom were still at the campus studying, run out to investigate the commotion.

One of them, a young earth pony mare, was floating in the air, injured and unconscious. The stallion next to her was in panic. His eyes were wide open in a mixture of confusion and horror. The other ponies were screaming in shock and terror as they ran back into the main building.

But Twilight could see what was actually happening. A giant, monstrous stallion was holding his victim with the tendrils that erupted from his back;

Damnit, White Cloud’s escaped! But where’s Shadow Seeker?

“Are you okay, Buttercup?” the stallion cried, “Buttercup, say something!”

Rage built up within Twilight from nowhere. Leaping from the wall, she unsheathed the sword at her side and landed a heavy slash against the maleficent creature’s side. White Cloud roared in pain and was sent crashing to the ground. He lost his grip on the mare, who collapsed onto the cold grass.

The stallion nearby gasped and rushed to her side, completely unaware of the imminent danger he was in. White Cloud rose, fury abundant in his eyes, and charged forward towards the oblivious pony.

“Stop with this, White Cloud!” Twilight yelled, leaping in front of the Hollow, and blocking his mad rush. The impact jarred her wither, and Twilight realized that absorbing the brunt of the blow may not have been the wisest decision. The stallion ran away with the mare back to the safety of the building.

White Cloud roared and shook his head violently, recovering from his attack.

“Get away from my food, Soul Reaper! I’m hungry!” he bellowed.

Twilight’s eyes widened as the frenzied Hollow readied himself for another charge, this time at the unicorn herself.

He‘s completely out of control!

Suddenly, he stopped. Twilight followed his gaze and saw Spike and Chrome arriving at the front gates. The pegasus leaped off the dragon’s back, and began running towards them.

“White Cloud! What are you doing here?” she gasped, fear and sadness sparking in her eyes as Spike grabbed her to stop her running to him.

“But how do you know that it’s him? You can’t even see him.” Spike breathed.

“It’s him! I would know my own brother when I sense him. Let me go!” she hissed.

“Food...” White Cloud growled as he launched his tendrils at the pair.

“C’mon!” Spike yelled as he dragged Chrome out of harm’s way and leaped to Twilight’s side.

“What do you think happened?” Twilight whispered as White Cloud once again recovered slowly from his reckless attack.

“I don’t know. It looks like Shadow Seeker trashed Chrome’s house and let White Cloud escape, but it doesn’t make sense. Maybe he wants him to capture prey for him, or something?”

“We can’t let him attack anyone else.” Twilight said slowly, “But how can I stop him without slaying him?”

White Cloud had fully recovered and had charged at them once again, leaping mid-way. The pair smoothly sidestepped the attack, but his claws left a large crater at the spot where they had just been.

“Spike, Twilight, Please. Don’t hurt my brother! He’s all I have.” Heterochrome sobbed.

“Heterochrome!” White Cloud gasped upon hearing his sister’s voice, “Heterochrome, is that you?”

“White Cloud!” the pegasus breathed as she began to walk towards him.

“Don’t do it, Chrome.” Spike warned.

“But he’s calling me.” Chrome said, “He needs me!”

Once more White Cloud charged at them, but Twilight blocked the attack with the flat of her blade. Once more the shock she absorbed jarred her wither, sending spasms of pain up her neck. The Hollow recoiled.

“Why do you stand in my way, Soul Reaper? She’s my sister!” White Cloud howled in frustration, ”And she’s willing to give her delicious soul to me!” he roared, “She is mine!”

“You aren’t her brother anymore, White Cloud. A brother protects his siblings; he stays by their side in all the difficulties, in all situations. No matter what the consequence, no matter what the cost.”

Although Chrome could not see the events unfolding, she could hear every word.

“Why is my brother saying these things, Spike?”

“He‘s not your brother anymore. He’s a Hollow, and he‘s using your love to blind you, Chrome. He’s not your brother; he’s a monster.” Spike motioned to the red stains of blood glistening on the grass. “This is his work, Chrome, and he’s not going to stop.”

“What do you know, little dragon?” White Cloud roared, launching his tendrils at Twilight. The unicorn gasped in surprise and attempted to evade the first volley. Diving to the left, she barely managed to avoid getting impaled, escaping with just a small gash from one of the tentacles as it sliced her leg. She shielded herself from the second volley with her Zanpakuto, grimacing in pain as the sheer brunt of the force knocked the breath out of her.

“He’s not like that!” Chrome sobbed, “He just can’t control himself.”

“Get out of my way!” White Cloud bellowed, “My food is getting impatient!”

“She’s supposed to be your sister.” Spike growled, “Look at yourself.”

“My sister? Ha! She was never my sister.” White Cloud chuckled sadistically. “She was just my ears. Only she could hear the Hollows - something I could never do. She was nothing more than a tool to get what I wanted.”

“What?” Chrome breathed, blinking in confusion.

“But you got what you wanted. You got your revenge. Obsidian’s dead. The Hollow who killed your family is dead.”

“But it was not by my hoof, foal. You took what was mine. You took what I deserved away from me.”

“You weren’t strong enough,” Spike growled, “I saved your life, White Cloud.”

“No!” White Cloud howled, “I wasn’t strong enough. But I was going to be strong enough. I am strong enough! And now I can’t destroy him! You took that right from me, Soul Reaper, and now I will make you pay for what you have done to me!”

The enraged Hollow batted Twilight aside with a powerful blow, and performed another reckless charge directly at Spike. Twilight smashed against the flooring, her lungs exhaling sharply. She felt her throat constrict as her diaphragm spasmed. She forced herself to ignore the unbearable pain and threw herself in front of the Hollow’s path with her magic.

Not a single thought ran through Twilight’s head. Not a single regret.

And then the Hollow crashed into her, squeezing the last pocket of air from her lungs. The pair collapsed to the floor, the mutated stallion crushing Twilight.

“Twilight!” Chrome screamed in horror as she heard Twilight's desperate gasps, “Twilight, no!”

“Twilight!” Spike gasped, his eyes bulging. The dragon sprinted over, kicking White Cloud off of the unicorn, “Twilight! Are you okay? Twilight, snap out of it!”

Twilight grunted and attempted to get up again, but she collapsed, gasping for air.

“You can’t save her. I will crush her, like I will crush you.” White Cloud giggled between gasps as he struggled to rise, “I will crush you all!”

“Twilight.” Spike breathed.

“Spike, I’m sorry.” Twilight wheezed and rose defiantly to face White Cloud. “He’s not listening.” she whispered.

With all the strength she could muster, Twilight vanished as she reappeared in front of White Cloud. Before the Hollow could even comprehend what had transpired Twilight’s sword had swung in an arc and applied a deep gash across his face. He just had time to widen his eyes in surprise before blood flowed out in torrents. A obsidian river flowed over his face, impairing his vision.

However, White Cloud was swift to recover and threw a petty punch at Twilight, who knocked it aside with her blade. The Hollow grinned wickedly as he saw an opening and launched his razor-sharp claw at Twilight, aiming for her gut.

Sparks flew wildly as the claws scraped against metal.

“You are stronger than you first appear, Soul Reaper.” White Cloud said, deflecting another attack. Twilight wasted no time before she danced into her next attack.

“You don’t understand at all, White Cloud. Chrome’s your sister. She’s confused, and scared, and lonely; she’s exactly like I was.” Twilight hissed coldly, thrusting her blade at the hollow in a deadly stab. “But I had Shining Armor. I had my brother. He was there to help me when I lost my way. He was there to smile when I was sad. He showed me that there’s more to life than anger and revenge.”

“How touching.” White Cloud laughed cruelly, dodging the attack, “But why should I care about Chrome. She never did anything for me. She never helped me. She was just a hinderance.”

Chrome inhaled sharply, “I-I didn’t mean to-”

“Don’t listen-” Spike growled quietly.

“Don’t pretend you didn’t know, you pathetic weakling! You knew that our parents loved you more!” White Cloud roared as he used his tendrils to attack Twilight who deflected the attack with her blade, severing the tips of the appendage. The Hollow howled in pain and thrashed on the ground, clinging to the stubs.

“White Cloud!” Chrome yelped, and ran towards the squealing Hollow.

“Chrome!” Spike shouted in alarm.

“Only now do you notice my suffering?” The monstrous stallion grimaced, rising from the ground and focusing his empty gaze on his bewildered sister. Twilight prepared herself to defend Chrome.

“When you were born, I was told I was going to protect you.” White Cloud continued, “But why would I want that? I had a life already. I was finally set to go to university and, after that, maybe move out of this archaic town!”

“But then you appeared and held me back. From the very moment you were born, my life was damned to be linked with yours! I was damned to be weak and useless!”

Tears flowed freely from Chrome’s wide and shocked eyes, “But brother! I-I loved you! I always loved you - from the bottom of my heart!”

White Cloud laughed coldly, his distorted voice echoed throughout the vicinity.

“It doesn’t matter. Just by existing you robbed me of everything I loved. Everything from material things, to the very love of our parents - you took that away from me!” White Cloud howled. “And when they were killed by that pitiful Hollow, I lost everything along with them, Heterochrome. The only thing I gained was the ability to see the monsters that destroyed what was left of my life. And even then you got the other half. Even then I was still linked to you.” White Cloud hissed, “Even then... I had to... protect you.” White Cloud spat out the word as if the very action left a foul taste in his mouth.

“And now you’ve become one of them.” Twilight said calmly.

“And for good reason!” the Hollow roared, “When I was just a pony, when I was a mere mortal, I was weak. I was pathetic. You could almost call this a blessing.” White Cloud chuckled, “Now I don’t need my sister. I can hear the Hollows and Soul Reapers, and I can listen as I squeeze every last drop of life out of them!

“And when I’m done,” he continued, “I can eat their souls and become even stronger!” White Cloud slammed one of his claws against the ground, making everything tremble. “I will kill everything! Hollow and Soul Reapers alike! I will devour them! And then...”

He stopped mid-sentence, motioning one of his claws to his chest, putting it on the hole there.

“I’m going to have it back, and make this pain go away.”

“Stop, White Cloud. You don’t have to do this!” Chrome cried. “You don’t need to hurt anypony.”

“Never! I will take what is rightfully mine!” White Cloud screeched as he swiped a claw at Chrome. The pegasus was thrown into a nearby tree. The dull thud was accompanied by a sickening crack.

Chrome couldn’t hear her friends yelling her name. The pain was unbearable. Her vision blurred, and images of a time long gone flashed before her eyes. Had it all really been a lie?

“Twilight...” she breathed.

“Pathetic.” White Cloud growled, walking up to his sister’s crumpled form. She’d clearly broken something. Probably a rib.

“I won’t let you touch her.” a voice whispered in his ear. White Cloud widened his eyes as a purple unicorn suddenly filled his vision, her blade pressed firmly against his neck.

“I won’t let you stop me, Twilight Sparkle.” he replied emotionlessly.

“White Cloud...” Chrome breathed, “Please...”

“I’m not weak, Chrome.” her brother rasped, “I won’t let you win.”

“Twilight,” Chome sobbed from the ground, “Please just let him kill me.”

“I can’t...” Twilight said, feeling her voice tremble, “You just don’t get it, do you, Chrome? What is a sacrifice? Is it some heroic deed performed by a pony whose name will be heralded forever? That pony still died. It was still a sacrifice. It leaves nothing behind but pain and sorrow for those who loved them the most.”

“A beautiful speech. But you’re a fool to lower your guard in front me, Soul Reaper.” White Cloud giggled, grabbing Twilight's blade between his teeth and throwing the unicorn. Twilight was surprised and caught off guard, and she landed on her back, her wounds burning as dirt was rubbed into them.

Twilight opened her eyes just in time to see White Cloud pouncing on her his claws ready to rend her exposed body like a ravenous manticore.

Purple light, and White Cloud’s claws ravaged the concrete ground. His prey had teleported at the last second, vanishing from his sight.

“Damn unicorns!” he cursed, “Are you going to keep running from me?” His empty, yellow eyes moved frantically in all directions, trying to figure out where Twilight was. “Coward,” he hissed as he stepped softly over the damp earth.

It was eerily quiet. Spike and Chrome’s breathing was barely audible over the faint breeze whistling across the field.

Suddenly White Cloud’s ears twitched as the sound of a blade singing through the air behind him caught his attention.

With all his strength, he turned around in time, blocking the Soul Reaper’s attack using his appendages, crossing them in an “X” fashion.

Twilight could barely believe what she was seeing. The tentacles sprouting out of his back were hard as iron.

“Do you see this, Heterochrome?” White Cloud cackled, “Do you feel this power? Not even a Soul Reaper can stop me now!” He giggled and forced back Twilight’s blade, throwing her away with enough strength to send her crashing into one of the walls which exploded into dust and debris. Rubble cascaded to the soft earth.

Twilight coughed up blood. She wheezed from the mixture of dust and blood in her lungs and collapsed to the ground.

“See, Chrome!” White Cloud crowed, “See what I can do? I can have anything I want now. You can’t even begin to comprehend how beautiful this power is.”

Chrome was paralysed as her brother turned to face her once more. She couldn’t get up, and her eyes were fixated on Twilight. The unicorn’s chest raised and lowered irregularly, the dust only just beginning to settle. She glanced over at Spike, who could only watch the scene unfold before him helplessly. Chrome shared the dragon’s feelings as she lay in the cold dirt, only smothered by the intolerable agony in her chest.

“You want to be powerful too, don’t you?”

A chill ran down her spine at his words.

“Join me, Chrome. Be strong. For me.” the Hollow began giggling, “For your brother.”

Chrome felt her mind bending, threatening to snap. Tears flowed like rivers from her eyes, and her lips trembled non-stop. There was no sorrow, not anymore; it was despair, now, that was crushing her heart.

“You can be just like me. Powerful, and strong. Become one of us Chrome... and maybe you can finally stop being a useless piece of trash and help me conquer everything I want. Then maybe, I will finally love you, Chrome.”

Her head swam, “Brother... I-”

“Come now, Heterochrome! Let’s be a family again.”

“I can’t...”

His eyes flashed hotly, “Then I will have to convince you!”

Chrome felt her heart sink at the words that came next.

“How much do you value your friends’ lives? If you don’t join me, I’m going to torture them. I will squeeze the life out of them and make you listen to every - last - scream.”

He’s completely insane! I don’t want to become a Hollow. But how can I help my friends? How can I help Twilight?

Chrome saw Twilight stand up.

I can’t become a Hollow like this!

White Cloud flicked his ear as he heard the distinct sound of steel sailing through the air. His eyes widened as he realized he’d forgotten about the unicorn behind him. Sparks flew, as Twilight’s attack was blocked by his appendages.

“Stop lying to her, Hollow.” Twilight yelled, “The life of a Hollow is a life of misery.”

White Cloud roared furiously, “Eurgh, why do you insist on bothering me, worthless gnat? I should have eaten Chrome when I had the chance.”

“Because that’s what friends do!” Twilight shouted, determination burning in her eyes.

How can I choose. How can anypony make that decision?

Chrome paused, trying to take a deep breath and reason with herself. But the answer never came. She just stood frozen on the ground, unable to utter a single word. Twilight watched her friend dissolve into shock.

“You see? Trash, until the very end.” White Cloud hissed.

Taking advantage of Twilight's hesitation, he punched a hoof into Twilight’s chest with all his might. Twilight staggered back in surprise, speckles of color flashing across her vision. Before Twilight even had the opportunity to grunt he lashed at her with his appendages.

“Twilight!” Spike gasped in horror as Twilight fell to the ground. Hopelessness bubbled up his throat, and his knees wobbled precariously. Twilight’s gaze met his for just a second, before they unfocused.

White Cloud seized the opportunity and lunged forward, pouncing towards the helpless unicorn. He outstretched his claws preparing for the final, deadly attack.

“Spike, no!” his victim screamed.

“Huh?”

A purple blur filled his vision as something blocked his way from his prey. He barely had time to register this new entity before he collided with it, his claws slicing through tough scales like serrated blades through cheese.

Twilight could only watch in horror as a blurry Spike dived in front of the fatal attack.

And she could only watch as the sharp claws mercilessly pierced her friend.

“Spike!” Twilight screamed again. Crimson blood gushed everywhere. It rained down upon her like a horrific April Shower and stained the earth, like the grass has weeped tears of scarlet.

And Spike fell to the ground next to her.

“You are stupid, little dragon.”

The Hollow wrapped one an appendage around Spike’s exposed neck and lifted him from the ground. Mercilessly, he slowly began squeezing the life out of Spike, all too literally.

“Have you decided yet, Chrome? Or should I continue having fun with your little friends over here?” White Cloud chuckled.

More purple light. White Cloud gasped in horror as the appendage restraining Spike fell off his back with astounding ease, a purple unicorn standing beside it. Fury burned in her eyes like a never-ending fire, her rage scorched so hot it could’ve caused blisters.

He roared in pain as a torrent of obsidian blood gushed from his severed limb, and he leaped backwards in surprise. The dragon lay across her back, and her violet eyes were ablaze with purple light that looked like a flame in her irises.

How’s this even possible!? A few seconds ago her Zanpakuto was barely enough to cut my skin!

“You dare! You can hurt me, but I will never let you harm my friends!” she roared, unbridled fury coursed through her voice. She leaped forward, with dragon on back, and launched a powerful slash at the stunned Hollow.

He swung his remaining appendage towards the encroaching unicorn when suddenly she teleported again. It didn’t take him long to spot her by Chrome’s side. Twilight placed Spike on the ground with care and turned to Chrome.

“I’m so sorry, Chrome. I hope one day you’ll forgive me.” Twilight whispered and closed her eyes, a single tear escaping and spilling down her face.

Chrome stiffened, her throat barely managing to find the words, “Twilight, p-please...” she pleaded.

But Twilight wasn’t there. The all-too familiar sense of helplessness washed over the pegasus again as Twilight lunged forward towards the brother. Hate burned in her eyes, the kind of hate that turned nice ponies into killers. Chrome did the only thing she could.

Heterochrome began to cry.

“Your soul is mine, Soul Reaper!” White Cloud roared viciously, matching Twilight’s anger, “And I’m going to enjoy making you pay for what you’ve done to me.”

He galloped over to Twilight and lunged for her head on. But the unicorn was engulfed in a shimmering, purple light. It encircled all of her body as if she was on fire.

It’s her Reiatsu*? How it can be so strong? And why have I never felt such an energy before?

Twilight opened her mouth to speak, “The time for talking’s over, White Cloud.” Twilight said coldly, “You had your chance.”

But this... this isn’t a common Reiatsu. It’s... different.

Before White Cloud could think any further on it Twilight moved her sword, inverting her grip on the blade, and raising it above her head. Focusing all her power, she enacted a battle shout and hurled the Zanpakuto at White Cloud like a spear.

Unnerved by the uncanny method that the Soul Reaper had decided to use to attack him, White Cloud stopped his charge suddenly, and wrapped his lone tentacle around the blade right before it pierced his face.

The power of the blow caused White Cloud’s hooves to dig into the soft earth.

“Nice try, Soul Reaper, but you’re not strong enough!”

Twilight ignored him as her horn flashed with a blinding purple light. The unicorn focused her magic into her weapon and manipulated her telekinesis ability, making the sword spin like a drill.

White Cloud’s eyes widened in surprise as his one remaining appendage was reduced to ribbons, obsidian blood rupturing from the ravaged limb.

“How did you-” he gasped, before the sword returned for a second attack. Batting it away with a claw he roared, “I’m not weak. I will not lose this! Not now!”

But Twilight’s magical grip on the blade was consummate and the blade returned to the fight, drilling right through White Cloud’s white, skeletal mask.

A deafening roar filled the air.

“It’s over.” Twilight whispered, retracting her blade. For what seemed like hours time was frozen. Then, like somepony had cast an invisible spell, blood gushed out of the fatal wound in torrents, and White Cloud collapsed to the ground in a pathetic heap.

The hollow gargled, “I... am not... weak!” roaring his final word with the last shred of strength he had. The ear-shattering roar echoed across the school campus until Twilight carved the Hollow in half with a deft strike. The pitiful form of what was once a strong stallion dissolved into a soothing, blue light.

And then-

Silence.

Not a chirp of a single bird, not even the wind rustling through the leaves on the trees. Twilight couldn’t even hear her own breath.

“No,” a voice gasped, “No. no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no!”

Twilight turned to face Chrome. The pegasus’ knees gave way as she collapsed to the ground in defeat.

“He’s gone. He... he’s l-left me! No!” Chrome screamed, punching the earth with her hooves. tears ran in small rivulets down her face. “Don’t leave me, brother! D-don’t...” the pegasus’ voice broke down to a whisper, “Don’t leave me here on my own! I-I’m... so scared.”

Twilight could only watch helplessly as her friend sobbed into the blood-stained earth. She walked over to Spike’s unconscious form and decided Chrome needed time to herself as she walked over to the gate to wait.

Chrome crawled over on her belly to where White Cloud’s body had once been. Nothing was left but the blood that was as black as his heart.

“No!” she screamed, rocking her knees, “No, don’t leave. P-please!” Tears streamed down her face like an untamed ocean, staining her chalk white coat. “D-don’t g-g-go.”

Chrome forced herself not to think of all that was now lost. Of the family that had been taken from her. Of the brother that had never loved her.

“Why didn’t you l-love m-me?” she screamed, “What did I do wrong!?” her voice once again reduced to a whisper, “Why can’t I forgive you?”

The pegasus lay thrashing in the soft mud, wallowing in her own tears and grief. Slowly, but surely, she succumbed to exhaustion, and the warm embrace of bliss that came with it.

Two days later

Chrome knew these two gravestones very well. They were worn, covered in moss, and victims to the passage of time. Chrome visited here almost every Sunday. She could have said it was for time for reflection or contemplation? But she’d be lying. She came here to talk to her parent’s gravestones, hoping that maybe, just maybe, they might be watching her.

However on this particular Sunday it wasn’t to her parent’s graves she spoke.

“Spike looks so much better today. He can finally walk. He was so pleased with himself when he managed that.”

An awkward silence befell the graveyard as Chrome found she had nothing to say. She opened her mouth to say more, but found the words died before they could form in her mouth, gargling pathetically in her throat before they made it past her tongue into understandable words. Closing her mouth she continued to stare intently at the grave.

“Twilight forgives you, you know. I don’t think that that pony’s the type to hold a grudge anyway, but I just thought you might want to know...”

Once again Chrome clamped her mouth shut as her memories spoke for her. Images, sounds and smells of a time long forgotten came rushing back. Of a time she could never get back.

“Mother and Father would be proud, I think.” she whispered, “You weren’t weak. I-” her voice broke, “I wish I was strong... I wish I was strong like you.”

“You are strong, Chrome.” Twilight said, startling the pegasus.

“Twilight!” Chrome exclaimed, “Forgive me. I didn’t see you there.”

Twilight nodded in understanding, “Don’t worry, Chrome. I’m here for you.”

Chrome mimicked her friend’s nodding, “Yeah...” she breathed.

The pair stared at the graves in silence. The birds were chirping in the trees now. Perhaps that meant her brother had finally found peace? She wondered where it was that Spirits ended up. In Spiritual Equestria? Was he happy there? Would he have another family? Would he have a new sister?

It wasn’t the first time in two days that the unbearable asphyxiation of loneliness clamped it’s constricting hoof around her neck. No tears came to her eyes, but she couldn’t find a way to fill up the insufferable black hole that now resided within her heart.

“There’s no one left now, you know.” she blurted suddenly, “It’s just me, now. I don’t have any other relatives. I was so scared of being the last one left that I convinced myself that he wasn’t really gone. I believed I could bring him back.” Chrome whispered, “I just wish I could’ve been right for once.”

“Chrome,” Twilight said softly, “Remember we’re your friends, and friends are the family that you choose. We’ll always be here for you, no matter what. You’ll never be alone, Chrome, you hear me?” Twilight continued sternly, “You’ll never be alone. Not with me - not with us. Not with your friends.”

“Twilight, I-” Chrome sniffed.

“You’re like a sister to me. The sister I never had.” Twilight whispered, “I don’t blame your brother. I wish things had turned out differently, I really do, but sometimes you’ve got to be strong. You’ve got to accept it, and move on.”

Chrome was silent for a few seconds before she whispered, “Twilight, can we go home?”

Twilight nodded in understanding and began walking towards the exit of the graveyard. Chrome was about to follow when she hesitated. She turned back to her brother’s grave and lowered her head to whisper to it.

“I forgive you, brother.”

And, with that, she followed the purple unicorn.

Author's Note

Reiatsu = Spiritual Pressure - is the physical force/pressure that a person’s Spiritual Energy creates when released.

A/N: Kinda the sad an emotional chapter huh?