Chapters Sunny watched in horror as the amulet flew through the air towards her. She had no time to move as it slid over her head and down onto her neck. As it settled in place the world around her became still for a moment. Her eyes darted back and forth as she tried to focus on everything around her. What in the world was going on with her and her friends? Just a minute ago everything was fine. And, then all of a sudden everything wasn't.
A voice spoke to her. “Look at them.”
She gasped as she called out. “Who's there?” She tried to move but for some reason she couldn't.
The voice continued. “See how easily the other races fall into anarchy.”
Sunny began to hyperventilate; a voice from nowhere was talking to her. Her body was paralyzed. And, her friends were acting so oddly. Fear gripped her mind as she tried to make sense of this. She tried again to move her body. But, it was no use her body wouldn't move. Her eyes began to dart rapidly again. Trying to find a way to get help. Trying to find a way to break out of whatever had a hold of her.
The voice asked. “Why are you fighting against me?”
That was when she saw it. There was a shadowy figure walking towards her. It had the building of a pony but there was a huge difference. The figure had the wings of a pegasus and the horn of a unicorn. Another alicorn? There was another alicorn here in Maretime Bay? Were they the reason why she couldn't move? Were they the reason why her friends were acting this way?
The figure seemed to read her mind as it answered. “No.” It moved closer to her as they continued. “Your friends.” They didn't even try to hid the disgust in their voice. “Naturally choose violence instead of peace.” It stopped halfway before turning and moving towards Pipp and Zipp.
Sunny yelled. “Stay away from them!” She tried to move again. It was pointless no matter how hard she fought; there was no way to break for the hold on her body.
The figure gazed at the pegasai; no it was glaring at them. It spoke. “Pegasai, they believe themselves higher than the other races.” They chuckled at a joke only they found funny. “Their entire race is full of nothing but hot air. They are nothing more than lowly weather maids; hiding behind masks of nobility and strength.” They focused on Pipp and continued. “But, this one cannot think for herself. She needs constant attention and instant acknowledgment.”
At that moment Sunny heard Pipp's voice. She was talking to her followers; her Pipsqueaks. She told them about everything in her life. She would ask them their opinions on something? She was talking with them.....she was letting them control her actions. Sunny shook the thought from her head. No, Pipp wasn't letting her followers control her. She was a content creator.
The figure looked at Zipp; it seemed to have some form of respect for her. They spoke. “This one is the more deserving of the two.” They listed off. “She is strong. She takes action. She knows when to get motivated and prioritises more pressing issues.” They paused a moment before continuing. “But, she only cares about her own needs.”
Sunny started to see the things Zipp would do in her free time. Rather than spending time with them; half the time she was flying freely through the sky. Gliding just above the waters of Maretime Bay. Soaring higher than her home in Zephyr Heights. Examining the crystals on her own.......wait, on her own? Why is she doing that by herself? How much does she know about the crystals?
The figure spoke. “The pegasai see themselves above the rest of Ponykind.” Sunny looked at the figure as it continued. “The keep secrets from the others. Secrets that could have helped back in the days before.” The figure asked her. “Did you know Commander Hurricane caused many food shortages.”
No, that wasn't true. Sunny read about medieval Equestria; yes there were times where food was scarce. But, that was because of droughts and harsh. She mentally gasped as something inside her mind clicked. Periodically, earth ponies would experience low harvests caused by harsh droughts, heavy rains, or winters that were colder than usual. She knew the winter was probably caused by creatures called wendigos. But, the droughts and rains. The pegasai knew how to control the weather back then. But, they wouldn't be that cruel.
They figure seemed to read her mind again as it spoke. “They have been and always will be.”
It started to walk towards Izzy. The figure lifted it's hoof and gently caressed her horn before speaking. “A shame such talent has gone to waste with her.” It began to speak about her. “Using magic to give new life to objects that have only one purpose. An optimistic view point clouded by child like fantasies. Her magic is truly one to be reckoned with. But, she would only use it to create art rather than to better the land.”
Sunny began to see all the things Izzy made. She would take trash and other items ponies would throw away and use them to create something new. Something that looked both amazing and stylish. She was an artist who knew how to take nothing and turn it into something. All that knowledge and magic......yet she didn't bother to use any of it to help Equestria.
Sunny scolded herself. “Stop it. Their my friends.”
The figure questioned. “Are they?”
Sunny started to hear their voices; all of them spoke over the other. Normally, it would be hard to focus on one voice with so many speaking at once. But, she could hear them loud and clear. They were talking about her....they were talking about Sunny the alicorn. How it was so amazing that she could turn into one. How she had so much magic and it was amazing being friends with her especially since she was an alicorn.
She felt hurt by that; was that true? Were they only her friends because she was an alicorn now? Did they care that magic was back? Did they care that ponies were living together again? Why did they only care about her? No, why did they only care about her alicorn form?
The figure spoke. “My, my such a handsome stud.”
Sunny looked at the figure again; this time it was standing next to Hitch. It seemed to be rubbing itself against his side. She nearly yelled. “Get away from him.”
The figure ignored her and said. “He's the sheriff of the town. Has a whole calender with pictures of nothing but him. Is good with animals and looks handsome.” She couldn't tell if the figure was smiling as it continued. “I'm surprised he's still single and I'm really surprised that we haven't tried to make him ours.”
Why were they talking like that? What did the figure mean by we? Sunny started to see the times Hitch stood by her. How he helped her on most days. How he would threaten to arrest her. She nearly cried as the memory of her father passing flashed before her. She had never cried so hard and yet he was there. Hitch held her together through that time. He was her best friend......he should be hers and hers alone.
She was starting to struggle fighting off those thoughts. Why was she thinking like this? Why was she thinking that way about her friends? Were they even her friends? Stop it brain! She was their friend and they were hers. So, why.............was she thinking she was so much better than they were. None of them, not even Hitch tried to figure out why the races kept to themselves. She was the one who tried to rebuild the bridges. But, none of them even bothered to lift a hoof to help. They only joined in when they heard magic could be brought back.
Sunny nearly yelled. “Stop it!”
The figure started to walk towards her. She looked at it in fear as it stepped closer. It sensed her fear and spoke. “You do not need to be afraid Sunny.”
The figure revealed itself and Sunny could not believe what she was seeing. The alicorn before her was herself. She was aglow with her magic and she gave off a sparkle that made hers dim. The other Sunny smiled wickedly at her.
She spoke. “I can help you. Out off all the ponies in Equestria; we are the strongest. We were the ones who brought magic back. We were the ones that united the races again. We are the ones who should rule over them.” Sunny seemed almost mesmerized by the words. No, she didn't believe any of this. Yet she found herself nodding in agreement.
The other her continued. “Yet, we need more power.”
Sunny questioned. “More power?”
The other her answered. “Yes, we are not strong enough yet. But, there is a way for us to harness more magic. There is a way for us to become stronger. Even more powerful than Celestia and Luna. More powerful than Twilight Sparkle.”
She asked. “How?”
The other her smiled and she smiled back at her. “Just let me take it from here.” She then reached for the amulet around her neck.
In a flash of golden light every one in the brighthouse was thrown against the wall. Hitch smashed into the oven. Izzy was sent headfirst into the stairs. Pipp and Zipp were thrown against the window. Surprisingly they didn't go through it. But, they struck it with enough force to knock both of them out. Sunny stood proudly in the center of her home. Her alicorn form shined brightly. She was the dominate one here. She was Sunny the alicorn and rightful ruler of Equestria. But, she needed more magic to make that possible. Thankfully, she knew a way to get it.
She turned towards the overturned couch and slowly walked up to it. She used her magic to flip it over; revealing her nephew Sparky. The young dragon looked at her in fear. He whimpered as he started to back away from her. He gasped as he was grabbed in her magical hold.
She spoke. “I can't believe one of you escaped from me.” Sparky tried to struggle against her. But, she was more powerful than him. She continued. “This entire time I thought I had captured all of you and locked you away.” He looked at her and became pale; she had an evil smirk on her face and her eyes had no love in them. All he saw was malicious intent. She continued. “But, this is a blessing.” she started to focus her magic on him. “With you I can regain what was taken from me. I can make them pay. I can show them the real ruler of Equestria. But, I need your dragon-fire lizard.”
Sparky shivered in fear as he struggled again. Then, he gasped as he felt something grab him on the inside. His insides started burn as his whole body felt like it was on fire. For a moment he did nothing but remain still. His eye filled with tears as pain coursed through his entire body. His aunt was hurting him. She was dragging something out of him. He started to feel cold. His feet were growing numb. He felt something being dragged up into his throat. He couldn't fight against her. He didn't stand a chance against her. She was going to.....he needed his daddy. He needed him now. For a moment all was silent. That was until Sparky started screaming in pain.
The moment his babies scream echoed in his ears. Hitch was already on his hooves. He yelled. “Sparky!?”
He looked at where the screams were coming from and his blood ran cold. Sunny was hold his son in mid-air. She had him in a magical hold and she was in her alicorn form. She was trying to pull something out of his son with her magic. Whatever it was it was hurting him. When his son screamed again; he felt an anger inside him that he didn't even know he was capable of.
He gritted his teeth and glared at her before he charged at her. Sunny had no time to react as his hoof collided with her face. She yelled in pain as she was knocked backwards. Her magic was interrupted and she dropped the dragon to the floor. Before she had time to recover Hitch ran up and tackled her to the ground.
He glared at her as he brought one of his hooves back and delivered a hard punch to her face. He spoke as he brought his other hoof back. “Don't! Touch! My! Son!” He punched her with every word. Tears of anger fell from his eyes as he punched his oldest friend. She was unconscious after the first punch; the rest was just causing damage. Her nose wasn't broken but it was bleeding and she was going to have a swollen lip.
As he brought his hoof back to deliver another blow a small sob made him stop. He turned in the direction of the sob and saw his son laying on the floor. Sparky was a whimpering mess of fear and tears. His eyes had a look of pure fear in them. He needed the love and comfort of his father. His tiny claws reached for him in a pleading way.
Hitch had never moved so fast in his life before. Not even when he would chase Sunny; he had never moved as fast as he did now. He scooped his son off the floor and held him close. His baby clung to him as he sobbed into his chest. Hitch started to cry again; this time he cried out of sadness and anger. How could he let this happen? How could he let this happen to his son? He looked at the mare he thought he knew. He wanted to do more than throw her in jail. He wanted to......
He shook his head and galloped out of the brighthouse. He had to get his son to the hospital now. He had to get him away from that mare. He had to get him someplace safe. Ponies stared at him as he ran through the streets. All of them wondering why he was in such a hurry. They wondered but for some they didn't care. While others looked on in worry. Something must have just happened; something bad.
Hitch burst through the door of the hospital. A few ponies in the lobby jumped at his sudden entry; while a few of the nurses stationed there focused on him. He ran up to the receptionist apologizing for his sudden entry. Before explaining what had happened to his son. The nurse called for a help and in a few short seconds a team burst from the door that lead to the ER. Normally, ponies would have to wait their turn. But, foals or in this case hatchlings took priority over adults. Sparky cried as the nurses took him from his father and Hitch nearly attacked one of them. But, they had to keep him in the lobby while they examined Sparky. As his son was being taken away he reassured his baby that he will see him again soon.
The moment the doors shut his whole world went quiet. For a long time he stared at the doors his son had just disappeared through. Eventually, his body moved over to a nearby chair and his sat down. Exhaustion finally hit him as he all but collapsed into the chair. He hid his face behind his hooves as he prayed for his son to be okay. How could this have happened? Why did this happen? Why would she do this? A million thoughts raced through his mind. Thoughts wondering how Sunny could do such a thing? Thoughts that wondering if she had been planning this? Thought that made him wonder if she would do this again?
No, she wouldn't get another chance. He reached for his sash and grabbed hold of one of the badges he had pinned to it. The badge he had was in the shape of a star; it didn't look like his sheriff badge. Normally, he would look around to make sure the coast was clear before using this. But, he need to speak to him now. He tapped the badge and it glowed lightly. It then grew to the size of a phone. The badge itself shinned like a star and in the center of it a small screen appeared.
Hitch begged. “Please, pick up. Please, pick up.”
The image displayed an icon only but a voice spoke through the star. “Hitch, whats?”
Hitch interrupted the voice. “Jack, I need you here now.”
The voice; belonging to someone named Jack responded. “Whoa, whoa. Hold on man. What's?”
Hitch interrupted him again. “Sparky got hurt.”
There was a moment of silence between them before Jack asked. “What did you just say?”
Hitch repeated. “Sparky's hurt.” He explained. “I'm in the hospital now.”
He didn't have a chance to finish his sentence as Jack hug up on him. Then in another flash of light a portal opened in front of him. From it stepped his friend; a human named Jack. He had white hair and wore all black clothing underneath a heavy leather jacket. The human looked at him before looking around. Sure enough they were in the hospital.
Jack said. “Tell me what happened.”
Sunny groaned a little as her eyes opened for a moment. Everything was blurry and the light was a little harsh. He face and head hurt like no tomorrow. As she blinked her vision into focus another shadowy figure entered her vision. She couldn't tell who it was; but she did know they were a pony. An earth pony to be exact. The figure stood over her friends; almost as if it was looking for something. In between the blinks she noticed the figure had looked at her and started to move towards her. She tried to get a better look at the pony's face. But, her vision failed her and before she knew it. Whoever it was they were gone. She ended up blacking out again.
A muffled voice called to her; her body was being shook. Somepony was trying to wake her up. She groaned as she felt pain again. Her face and head still hurt like no tomorrow. As her eyes opened again she saw three shadowed figures standing over her. Her name was called to her over and over again.
A muffled voice spoke. “....me on girl. Wake up.”
As her eyes finally adjusted and her vision returned to her; she saw they three figures clearly. It was Zipp, Pipp and Izzy. All of them looked worried. As she sat up all three of them backed off a little. Giving her a little space as she got to her hooves. At first she was a bit unsteady; thankfully Zipp was there to hold her up.
She thanked her. “Thanks Zipp.”
Zipp nodded before replying. “No problem.” She looked around and asked. “What happened?”
Sunny got a better look at their home; various items were scattered along the floor. Furniture was either overturned or broken. It looked like a small tornado had gone through their home. What in the world happened?
Pipp asked. “Hey, where's my phone?”
She started to look for her phone; she didn't have to look for long. Izzy found it over in the corner against the wall. She picked it up.
She spoke. “It's recording.”
She used her magic to hand it over to Pipp. Sure enough it was still recording. She didn't hesitate stopping and rewinding the video. None of them could believe what they were seeing. All of them started acting like complete jerks. Hitch was littering. Izzy was trash talking others. Zipp was acting like an evil queen. And, Pipp was singing rock and roll. None of them could believe what they were seeing on the small screen. The most shocking part of the video was when Sunny went into her alicorn form. She used her magic to send them flying into the walls and windows.
This was so unbelievable; there was no way this was real right? This was just some joke she would never do this. She, she wasn't using her magic to hurt her friends. She wasn't using her magic to pick Sparky up the ground. No she was. She was. She was picking him up and telling him everything was okay. She gasped as she watched herself use her magic to start pulling something out of him. She didn't know what but the moment they heard his scream.
Hitch and Jack waited patiently in the lobby. Hitch had a far off look; while Jack was deep in thought. Processing all the information he was told. Hitch still couldn't believe what had happened. He didn't want to believe what had happened. There was no way Sunny would do something like this. There was just no way. He's known her since they were foals. But, where he was now. Where is son was now. He clenched his eyes shut and gritted his teeth. He was so angry.
Jack spoke. “Hey.”
Hitch opened his eyes and looked up at his friend. Jack had got up and walked in front of him. He pulled a card from his pocket and held it out in front of him. With a flick of his wrist the card turned into a cloud of smoke and formed into a tea cup. The cup floated in the air for a moment before Hitch grabbed it.
He thanked him. “Thanks.” He drank the tea and commented. “Fire tea with a hint of honey.” he smiled and thanked him again. “Thank you, Jack.”
Jack replied. “No worries.” He felt eyes on him again and turned and looked at the ponies across the room. He saw them quickly look away. He chuckled again; they weren't going to get used to him any time soon.
A nurse called out. “Hitch Trailblazer.”
Hitch gasped as he stood up and walked over to the nurse. He asked her. “Is my son okay?”
The nurse nodded and answered. “Yes.” She explained. “As far as we can tell he's okay. But, our knowledge on dragons is limited.”
As the nurse informed him about his son; Jack walked over to the receptionist. He noticed the look of fear on her face as he stopped at the desk. He spoke. “Hey.” The moment she looked at him he told her. “If a mare called Sunny Starscout comes in and ask for Sparky. Tell her to leave okay.” He started to walk away.
The nurse spoke. “Okay, but your not.”
Jack warned her. “This hospital will have one more body in it's morgue if you let her in.”
The nurse couldn't find her voice as a very cold chill ran up her back. She didn't need to test that threat. He would follow through with it. She gulped as he followed Hitch through the double doors. She hoped that Sunny wouldn't come to this hospital. She begged that she wouldn't. If that mare valued her life she wouldn't come through those doors.
Sunny burst through the door of Maretime Bays' hospital. Causing more than a few heads to turn and look at her. She quickly ran up to the receptionist and slammed into the counter. Making the nurse behind it jump back in slight fear.
She all but yelled. “Sparky Sparkaroni! What room!?” The nurse was stunned by her sudden outburst. She nearly screamed. “WHAT ROOM!”
The nurse replied. “Three hundred and fifteen!” Before the nurse could continue Sunny was already bolting for the nearest elevator. She tried to tell her. “But, we've been told!”
The words were lost to her as she managed to get into an elevator before it closed. She rapidly pressed the button for the third floor. She cursed the elevator for being so slow. The ride up felt like it was taking hours. The moment the she heard the ping and the door opened. She nearly bowled over a patient and a doctor. She found the nearest directory and galloped full speed to the room. She turned down two hallways. Her lungs burned and her legs ached. But, she had to see her nephew. She had to see if he was okay. When sure turned down the third hallway; she saw the room he was in.
She called out. “Sparky!” She ran to the room. Only to be stopped by some kind of bipedal creature.
The creature wore all black clothing with a matching jacket. It had pale skin and white hair. It glared at her as she stared up at it. She couldn't believe what she was seeing. She read about this in one of her fathers journals. This was a human standing in front of her. Blocking her path and keeping her from seeing Sparky.
The human ordered calmly. “Leave.”
Sunny shook her head and answered. “No.” She started to go around him and continued. “I need to see.”
She was interrupted as the human suddenly swung a double-bit ax at her. She screamed as she had little time to jump out of the way. The ax struck the floor with a loud clank and the human glared at her. Where in the world did he get that weapon? She didn't see him holding anything. Was he hiding it? She backed away as the human stood up and glared at her.
It spoke. “You don't seem to understand.” It held it's ax at the ready as it continued. “You hurt the baby.” It added. “You hurt my nephew.” It's grip tightened as it all but yelled. “I should take your head off right now! And, throw it in the mote around my mothers castle!”
Sunny gasped and backed further away from the human. She didn't need to be told twice. That human was going to kill her if she approached that door again. That human called Sparky his nephew. She wondered if that meant he knew Hitch. If so why didn't Hitch tell her he met a human. The door to Sparky's room opened and Hitch walked out. The human turned to look at him. While he glared at Sunny.
She spoke with slight relief. “Hitch.” She tried to walk to him; but he held a hoof up. Causing her to come stop in her track.
Zipp yelled. “Sunny!” Her and the other two joined her.
Hitch looked at the human. “Jack, go be with Sparky.” The human named Jack nodded before glaring at Sunny again. He put away his ax and walked pass Hitch. He said something under his breath to him before walking into the room.
Hitch looked at their friends and order. “All of you leave. I need to speak to Sunny alone.”
None of them protested and started to make their way back down the hall. The moment they turned the corner it was only him and her left in the hallway. It was quiet in the hall; the only sound that was heard was the overhead buzzing of the lights. He glared at her while she looked at him. She was going to say something but he stopped her.
He spoke. “Sunny.” He said her name with so much anger. “I have known you since we were kids. I was there for you when your father died.” His body started to shake with anger as he continued. “When I became sheriff; you were there with me. You had to be the loudest one in the crowd applauding and cheering me on.” She remembered that memory. “You're also the one who constantly broke the rules. Constantly got into trouble. Violating numerous rules, regulations and so on. And, I forgave all of them because you were my friend.”
It was quiet again in the hallway. Hitch had his head down and he was trying to keep himself from crying. Sunny tried to walk closer but he looked up and glared at her. A glare that kept her from moving any further. A glare filled with anger and hatred.
He continued. “But, what you just did to my son.” He paused a moment before he continued. “I will never forgive you.” He lifted his hoof and finished. “As Sheriff of Maretime Bay; I Hitch Trailblazer.” He began to walk towards her
Sunny tried to speak. “Hitch?”
He ignored her and continued. “Place you Sunny Starscout.”
She tried to walk away from him. She begged “Hitch, wait!”
He finished never thinking he would ever do this to her. “Under arrest.” He pulled out some hoof-cuffs and grabbed her. She tried to struggle against him; tried to get him to talk to her. But, he was not going to hear it. He order her to put her hooves behind her back and securely locked them behind her. He wished this wasn't real. He wished it was all just a bad dream. But, this was happening. He just arrested Sunny Starscout.
He made her sit down and ordered. “Stay there!”
She said nothing as he walked back into the room. She couldn't believe this was happening. He always threatened to arrest her. And, every time he would let her off. But, now she sat there in the hallway. Hoof-cuffed and waiting for him. The moment the door opened she looked up and saw the human walk out. He glared at her as he walked over and grabbed her.
He ordered. “Get up!”
He dragged her up and starting listing off her rights as he started to move them away from the room. Hitch had just made him a deputy and he was escorting her to the jail. She looked back at the room where her friend and nephew was. She started to struggle against him.
He ordered. “Stop resisting.” She started to fight against him harder and he yelled. “Stop resisting!”
She screamed. “Hitch! Hitch, please!” She felt herself being dragged away. “I'm sorry! I'm sorry!” Tears fell from her eyes as she called for her nephew. “Sparky! Sparky!”
Everyone watched as she was dragged out of the hospital. None of them could believe what they were seeing. Sunny Starscout the one who helped unite the races back together. Was being arrested and dragged off to jail. Who friends were in a state of disbelief. While Hitch watched from the rooms window. Good, that psycho was no where near his son. And, she wasn't going to get near him again any time soon.
He turned away from the window and walked back towards the hospital bed. He climbed onto the bed and layed down next to his son. His baby was curled into a tight ball. A small whimpering ball that only opened when he pulled him into a protective hug. Tears fell from his eyes again. His baby had been hurt and he just arrested the only mare he thought he could trust.
He shushed the baby. “It's okay buddy.” His voice cracked a little as he finished. “Daddy's here. Daddy's got ya.” He promised. “No one will ever hurt you again.” He gently nuzzled Sparky as he started to lull him into sleep.
A deep voice spoke. “You did good.” The voice was followed by a sinister chuckle.
Another voice spoke in a hushed tone. “What else will you have me do?”
The voice from before answered. “For now we watch and wait for a moment to strike again.” It was silent for a moment before the voice continued. “When the time comes we will strike at their heart again.
Author's Note
Yep, i got inspired by the recent show and decided to write this. let me know what y'all think. The OC used is based off my uncle who passed a few years back. His name was Jack.
I've decided to rewrite the chapters posted and have decided to go the original way i wanted to take this story. a different villain and different outcome. hope all of you enjoy.
A heavy downpour soaked Maretime Bay. Ponies carried umbrellas or wore clothing that was made for rainy days. It was the perfect weather for Sunny at the moment. She was kept inside a cell in the towns jail. Resting on a bed while gripping a pillow close to her chest. Her face and the pillow were stained with tears. She hadn't stopped crying since yesterday. Not since she hurt her nephew. She didn't even get any sleep last night. His scream haunted her. How could she do that to him? What kind of a monster was she?
Outside of the cell and across from her Jack sat at one of the desks. He appeared to be playing a game of solitaire. He glanced up at the mare in the cell. She hadn't moved since he brought her here yesterday. She hadn't even tried to make an escape. He strongly disliked her at the moment. She crossed a line and he may never forgive her for it. He still couldn't believe what had happened yesterday. One minute he was talking to his team. The next he got a call saying Sparky had been hurt. He glanced down at one of his cards; he reached for one that had the image of a scorpion on it. If he wanted to he could make her pay. All he had to do was throw this card into the cell and a giant scorpion would appear in it. It had enough poison to kill one hundred of his mothers best knights.
He looked back at her and sighed. Even if he threw a card in the cell nothing would happen. Another card of his was protecting her. The Guardian. A card that would protect him and those with innocent hearts. So why was it protecting her? He focused back on sorting his cards; he just had a couple more to organize. As he sorted his cards he wondered how his nephew was doing. When he heard the door to the station open he looked up. Hitch had just entered the station and was walking towards him.
He greeted him. “Hey.”
Hitch replied with the same word. “Hey.” His voice sounded tired.
He asked. “How's the babe?”
Hitch replied with a small smile. “Doctor says he's okay.” His voice carried a little happiness as he continued. “They couldn't find anything wrong with him internally.” He paused for a moment.
Jack picked up on the pause and said. “But.”
Hitch continued. “But, Sparky's a little shook up. When I mentioned her.” He looked at the cell and glared at Sunny for a moment before he finished. “He started crying and he nearly wet himself.”
Jack shook his head before reminding him. “The offer still.”
Hitch interrupted him. “Don't need to remind me. That's why I'm here.” He explained. “I need to get a few things for both me and Sparky. Moment the doctor clears him we're coming with you.”
Jack smiled before nodding; he then asked. “Do you want me to go be with the babe?”
Hitch nodded and replied. “Yes.” He then added. “Besides I need to speak with Sunny for a moment.”
Jack didn't need to be told twice. He quickly picked his cards up and put them away. He walked around the desk and stood in front of Hitch; both of them hugged for a moment before he walked away and out the door. Hitch looked at the cell. A cell that now held her. A place where he thought she would never end up. Many emotions ran through him. Anger, sadness, happiness, but most of all he felt betrayal. He felt betrayed by his oldest friend. He walked up to the cell and looked at her through the bars.
He called to her. “Sunny.”
She didn't respond; he gently pushed against the cell and opened it. The cell had been open the whole time. Surprisingly, he trusted her enough not to try and run and come after his son again. He slowly walked into the cell and towards her. She hid her face in the pillow she was holding. He could hear her faint sobbing behind it. He didn't care how sad she felt; what she did was next to unforgivable. So, why did he want to hug her? Why did he want to comfort her? He pushed the thoughts out of his mind.
He ordered. “Sunny, look at me.”
She didn't try to deny him. Slowly, she looked up at him; shivering under the intensity of the glare. Her eyes were red and slightly swollen from all they crying she had been doing. She had wished all night for this horrible nightmare to end. But, this was their reality and they had to live in it. No amount of magic could change this.
He spoke to her. “You're really lucky Sunny.” He said her name with such disgust. “My son is going to be okay. But, until I can feel that I can trust you again. I don't want you anywhere near him.” He paused for a moment before he continued. “That's why I'm leaving this town and taking him with me.”
Sunny questioned. “Leaving?” Her voice was barely above a whisper.
Hitch explained. “I'm still going to be hear when I need to work. But, the moment I finish my shift; I'll be gone. So don't bother trying to find us.” He started to walk away from her. He stopped just in front of the cell door; he turned back to her and said. “You're free to go.”
He walked out of the cell and headed for the back room. Sunny simply laid there on the bed. Her eyes glued to the door her friend just walked out of. Her mind slowly processed the information she was told. She sniffled before burying her head in the pillow again. Why did this happen? Why did she do such a horrible thing to Sparky? Why? Just why? She started to cry again.
She spoke into the pillow. “I'm sorry, Sparky.”
Zipp continued to study the video she had her sister send to her phone. She had watched it over and over again. Her mind was still having trouble processing what she was seeing. Her and her friends were acting so strange. Izzy was a mean unicorn that didn't care about anyone or about unicycling. Pipp was rocking out instead of singing pop. Hitch was littering. She was pretending to be a tyrant. And, Sunny tried to possibly kill Sparky.
She sighed and rubbed her tired eyes. She was going to need a power smoothie or some coffee. This was a case she couldn't let go cold. She started to rewind the video again; as it neared the beginning she heard hoofsteps coming towards her. She turned and saw her sister walking towards her. She had a look of concern on her face. But, she was more focused on the cup of coffee she was carrying.
Pipp asked when she reached her sister. “Anything?” She held out the cup of coffee.
Zipp shook her head. “No.” She grabbed the cup and took a big sip from it. The liquid burned her lips and tongue. But, she really needed the caffeine. She thanked her. “Thanks.”
Pipp nodded before saying. “Think you can stop for a minute.” Zipp was about to tell her again but she continued. “Sparky wants to see his Aunt Zipp before he has to go.”
Zipp stopped before she even started. She had forgotten that Hitch had told them they were leaving for somewhere safe. A place where Hitch could calm down and where Sparky could heal at his own pace. She got up from her desk and followed her sister down stairs. Both of them made their way outside. Izzy was standing with Hitch, Sparky, and Jack. She was still unsure about Jack. Sunny did tell them Twilight wrote a book about Humans. She just didn't think they were real.
They walked up to them just as Izzy finished hugging Sparky. The moment he saw them he laughed a little as he walked up to Pipp. His tiny arms waving in the air for a hug. Pipp awed at the cute sight and quickly scooped the baby dragon up. Sparky purred as he gently nuzzled her. She didn't want to let her nephew go. She loved the little guy even when he would get up to no good.
Zipp sniffled a little when the little guy locked eyes with her. He smiled and started to reach for her. Babbling his baby talk as he did. Pipp gently held him out to her and Zipp caught him and brought him in for a hug. His purring always made her smile. She couldn't believe him and Hitch were leaving. Yes, they would be back eventually. But, she just couldn't imagine Maretime bay without them.
Izzy asked. “You're sure about this Hitch?”
Hitch nodded and answered. “Yeah.” He looked at his son and continued. “He'll be safer where were going?”
Pipp asked. “Which is?”
Jack answered. “Again, can't tell ya.”
Zipp glared at the human as she put Sparky down. He cooed a little before turning and walking back towards his father. Hitch looked down at his son and smiled. He knelt down and let him climb onto his back. Sparky purred again as she nestled into his favorite spot on his fathers back. For a little while they talked and said there goodbyes. Izzy left to go bring Sunny back to the brighthouse. While Pipp walked back into the house. She needed to make another video; anything that could take her mind off their current situation. Zipp watched as the three started to walk away. She sighed as she turned to walk back to the house. She had to finish her investigation.
She gasped as she called out. “Who's there?” She just heard someone whisper into her ear. She looked around but nobody was there. She started to walk again only to call out again. “Who's there!? Show yourself!?” She just heard the voice again.
All was quiet for a moment and then the voice repeated. “Follow them.”
She looked at the Brighthouse for a moment; she had to figure out what happened. She stood as still as a statue. Until she turned and started tailing them. She didn't know why this voice was telling her to follow them. But, she had a feeling that she had to follow these instructions.
She followed them all the way down to the beach. She stayed out of sight and watched them. They continued walking down on the beach until they reached the waters edge. She had to hide herself behind some rocks as Jack started scanning the area. She wondered what in the world was going on? That was when she saw him pull something out of his pocket. She couldn't tell what it was. But, whatever it was it glowed brightly.
She gasped as something opened in front of them and all three of them disappeared. She got up and ran towards what they entered. She couldn't believe what she was seeing. It was a portal. An actually portal. She thought those only existed in the cheap science fiction movies she had seen. She slowly lifted her right hoof up; she was tempted to touch it. She stopped her hoof just in front of it.
The voice spoke to her again. “Follow them.”
She turned around and tried to find who was whispering in her ear. Who in Equestria was talking to her right now. Whoever it was; they were starting to annoy her. She sighed and turned back to the portal. It was still open; but she wondered how long it would be. For a long time she stared into the portal. It looked beautiful and at the same time it looked horrifying. She wondered what was on the other side? She wondered if it was like the movies? Would she be able to come back home?
She reached for the portal again but this time she touched it. Her hoof disappeared into it. Slowly, the rest of her followed. As her faced moved closer to the portal she closed her eyes and held her breath. When she felt her face pass through; she slowly opened her eyes. Just in time to see herself disappearing into a tunnel of light. The rest of her was sucked into the portal just as it closed. She felt herself moving faster than she had ever moved. Everything around her was a blur of light. The only thing that she could hear was her breathing.
Jack breathed in some fresh air as he stepped out of the portal and into the alley. He smiled as he looked up at the endless night sky. He commented. “Good to be home.”
Sparky laughed as him and his father exited the portal. He jumped down from his fathers back and started to run towards the end of the alley. He cooed as his uncle grabbed him and picked him up. Only to laugh again as he tickled his stomach while saying something.
Hitch chuckled before he heard an odd sound coming from the portal. He turned and asked. “Jack?”
Jack looked at him and questioned. “What's?” He stopped as he noticed the portal was still open. He commented. “That should've closed.” It was then an echoing scream was heard coming from the portal.
Both of them stepped back and readied themselves for a fight. Something must have entered the portal and was trying to break through. The screaming got more intense and then in a flash of white light; Zipp fell out of the portal and landed on the ground in front of them. The portal closed shortly after.
Hitch called out. “Zipp?”
Zipp groaned as she slowly got to her feet. She stumbled to the left and then to the right. Everything was weird. She opened her eyes and only saw blobs of darkness, light, and screeches of sound echoed in her ears. She groaned as she brought her hooves to her head. She started yelling for some reason.
Hitch recognized this and quickly ran up to her. He grabbed her and looked at Jack while saying. “Jack, need a gumball!”
Jack nodded and reached into his pocket. He pulled out what appeared to be a blue gumball and threw it at Hitch. He caught it before looking back at Zipp. He spoke. “Zipp listen to me.”
The screeching got worse and Zipp felt herself going crazy. She looked at the blob of color next to her. It shifted and changed into various shapes. She tried to get away but it had a hold on her. All of a sudden something was forced into her mouth and it was held shut. She felt something round in her mouth. It then suddenly dissolved into a liquid. It tasted horrible; it tasted like overcooked asparagus that had been marinated in anchovy sauce. With a shot of jalapeno juice. She tried to spit it out but something held her mouth shut. She felt her head being tilted upwards and she felt the liquid moving down her throat. Tears of disgust fell from her eyes as she felt the urge to vomit.
She then heard Hitch apologize to her. “Sorry, Zipp.”
She thought. “Hitch?”
All at once the screeching stopped. Her vision returned and she didn't feel like she had to vomit. She gasped as him and Jack backed away from her. For a moment she simply sat there in front of them panting heavily. She looked around noticing they were in an alleyway. Before she could ask Sparky ran up and hugged her right foreleg. He nuzzled his face against her leg as she smiled down at him.
Hitch questioned. “Zipp, what in the world were you thinking?”
Zipp answered. “I don't know. Something told me to follow you.” Before they could ask she questioned. “What in the world just happened to me?” She gagged a little before she also asked. “And, what in the world did you make me eat.” She could still taste it in her throat.
Jack chuckled as he answered the first question. “That was a very bad case of motion sickness.”
She questioned. “Motion sickness?” She had that before but never that bad.
He nodded and answered the next question. “What you took was some powerful medicine. It works fast, tastes horrible and then an hour later you'll be taking a nap.”
Hitch was about to ask her what she meant when she said she was told to follow them. But, he didn't have a chance to ask. Zipp had looked up to the sky and asked. “Wasn't it morning just a few seconds ago?” She also got a better look at her surroundings and asked. “Where are we?”
Hitch couldn't help but chuckle; he was in the same predicament about a year ago. He walked forward and picked Sparky up. His son giggled as he was placed onto his fathers back again. He looked at Zipp and motioned for her to follow him. She watched as Jack led the way down the alley. He turned the corner with Hitch following behind him. She simply sat there for a moment before getting to her hooves and following them.
As she reached the end and turned the corner; she gasped at the sight she saw. They were inside a towns center area. There was a cafe to the right and they were next to some kind of shop. She saw them standing at the railing and made her way towards them. As she joined them Jack turned and looked at her.
He then said. “Zipp, welcome to Traverse Town.”
She was in a state of awe down in the center a few creatures were gathered. Some were human. Others she recognized from history books her mother kept. It was Kirin and Minotaur. There was also some other strange creatures that she didn't recognize.
She asked. “Where in Equestria are we?”
Jack laughed and answered. “You're not in Equestria anymore.” He added. “You're in another world.” Before she had a chance to react he asked. “Before you start freaking out. Think, you can wait till were at my home?”
Her mind went blank from the overload of information. So many creatures she had only heard about. Another world other than Equestria. She wasn't sure if she should be freaking out or having the time of her life. The only thing she could do was simply nod her head. Jack turned and motioned for them to follow him.
Zipp noticed the sign on the shop as they walked around it. It was an Item's shop; she wondered what kind of things it sold. As they headed up the stairs; they passed a small home and another shop that was at the top just behind the Item's shop. It's sign read that it sold something called Gummi's. She wanted to ask what those were; but Jack kept them moving. They were heading right for a large set of double doors. He opened them and held them open for them as they walked through.
The area they entered was larger than the first one and it was filled with more shops. In the distance was a large mansion and clock tower. Zipp was amazed at how large the courtyard was. As they made their way down into the courtyard she saw the fountain that was there. She had no idea that they were standing just above it when they entered the area. Jack called this area the second district. As they walked through the courtyard Zipp noticed there was also a small motel there. Did this place get a lot of creatures visiting? The group was lead down another alleyway; as they turned the corner they saw the doors that lead to the third district. As they walked to the door Zipp groaned and fell to her knees.
Hitch noticed this. “Zipp.” He ran back to her as Jack stopped and looked. He asked her. “Are you okay?”
Before she could answer she fell asleep. Jack commented. “Gumballs side effect must have hit her.” He walked back to them and picked her up. He added. “Hasn't even been an hour yet. My guess the portal travel took a lot out of her.”
Hitch nodded as he remembered the first time he went through a portal. He remembered how he felt drained even before the medicine took effect. Jack motioned for them to keep going and Hitch nodded before they continued to the doors. Hitch pushed the double doors open and they entered the third district.
Jack asked. “Think you can get the door again Hitch?”
Hitch replied. “Sure thing.”
Hitch opened the door and stepped to the side; Jack stepped into his home and gently placed Zipp onto the floor. As Hitch closed the door; Sparky jumped off of his back and walked over to Zipp. He looked at her with slight worry.
Hitch noticed this and tried to comfort his son. “Don't worry, bud.” He smiled as he continued. “Aunt Zipp is just taking a nap.”
It was then in a flash of the light the room they were in changed. The floor turned into grass and so did the walls. But, the walls were much larger than the floor. Chairs made of bark grew from the floor; while in the center of the room a large table formed. On the table many teapots and dishes were set. The ceiling even changed; it looked like a starry night sky. Hitch sighed as he shook his head. He was still getting used to it.
Jack spoke. “Give me a second to get the guest room ready.”
He walked over to the wall and pulled another card from his pocket. He threw the card at the wall and in another flash of light a door appeared. He opened the door as the room was being built right behind it. The room itself looked like it was being carved inside of a large tree. The bed and desk inside were made of wood. The starry night sky remained on the ceiling just like the living room. He nodded and then walked over to them. He gently picked Zipp up again and carried her to the room.
Hitch asked. “Want me to grab the spare blankets and pillows?”
Jack answered as he entered the room. “No, need.” He gently layed Zipp down on the bed and continued. “Made some upgrades to my cards when I was visiting Hatter. Now the spare rooms are equipped with everything.”
Hitch nodded as Sparky ran into the room. He was about to call his son back. But, when he saw his baby jump onto the bed and cuddle up with his Aunt. He smiled at the cute sight as his son slipped into a peaceful slumber. He could hear him purring happily. Both of them quietly exited the room and shut the door.
Hitch thanked. “Hey, Jack. Th-.” He was interrupted by a knock at the door. He looked at it and asked. “Were you expecting company?”
Jack chuckled before he answered. “When you called I was talking to the others.” The knocking continue and he added. “I told them what happened and two of them said they'd be here.” He suggested. “You may want to answer the door.”
Hitch nodded and walked up to the door and opened it. As he opened the door he was face to face with a gryphon and another human. The gryphon had black and yellow feathers. While the human was dressed almost like a biker. He smiled as he walked forward.
He happily greeted. “Honey.”
The gryphon called Honey smiled and greeted him back. “Hitch.”
Both of them hugged each other as the human chuckled and walked around them. The human was a woman with red hair. She looked at Jack and greeted. “Sup, Jack.”
Jack greeted back. “Sup, Ryder.” He added. “Glad to see you both made it.” He asked. “The others here too?”
She shook her head and answered. “We're the only ones here for now.” She saw a light coming from the guest room and asked. “Baby boy in there?”
Jack nodded and Ryder started walking towards the door. She stopped and gently grabbed the knob. She slowly turned it and pushed open the door. She peeked into the room; she smiled as she saw the baby dragon sleeping peacefully next to a pegasus. But, she did wonder who in the world that was.
She quietly closed the door before turning towards Jack and asked. “Who's that in there?”
Jack answered. “Hitchhiker we picked up on the way.” He chuckled a little at his own joke. Before he pulled another card from his pocket. He asked her. “Want some fire tea?”
Ryder replied. “I would love some fire tea.”
Jack nodded and flipped the card in his hand; in a cloud of smoke it turned into a tea pot. He held his hand under the spout and poured it. From the spout came a saucer along with a tea cup. It was followed by a small spoon and the tea itself. The last to empty out of the pot was two cinnamon cubes. The spoon began to stir the tea on it's own. He offered the cup to her and she took it. The spoon floated out of the tea and over to the table.
She thanked him. “Thanks.”
He nodded as he looked out the window; he saw Hitch and Honey Bee walking towards the second district. He smiled and nodded; those two needed time to catch up. He drew two more cards and threw them at the wall. Another chair appeared and a small table appeared in between the two chairs. He walked over to one of them and sat down. Ryder walked over to the other and sat down.
Hitch smiled happily as him and Honey walked side by side. He was happy to see her again; it had been awhile since the last time they saw each other. Honey pressed herself against him as they turned the corner and walked towards the courtyard.
He asked her. “How have you been?”
She answered. “I'm fine.” She continued. “But, it should be me asking you that.”
He chuckled as they entered the courtyard. Both of them turned and looked towards the top of the clock-tower. The looked at each other and nodded. Honey unfolded her wings and flew up; while Hitch started running towards the wall. As he got closer his hooves started to glow with magical energy. He jumped at the wall and the moment his hooves made contact he started running up the wall. He ran all the way to the top; Honey was already there waiting for him. As he landed at the top; both of them smiled at each other and walked over to the edge. They rested there against each other and took in the wonderful sight of the town. The distant lights of the first district mixed with the countless stars above. It was a truly wonderful sight.
Honey asked him. “Are you okay, Hitch?”
For a moment he was quiet until he sighed and rested his head on his hooves. He wanted to say yes. But, the honestly he was angry. He was angry at himself for not protecting his son. But, he was mostly angry at Sunny. He trusted her. Out of all the ponies he knew he trusted her the most. Now, after seeing what she did to his son. She......she.....
He gasped as he felt a gentle wing drape over him. He looked at Honey who looked at him with a gentle look. For a moment they just stared at each other; until he moved his head to her chest and pressed himself against her. Not only did she wrap her wing around him; she also wrapped one of her fore claws around him. She held him close. Like he had done for her the first time she showed him her other side.
Author's Note
Taking some advice I’m going to be adding the other characters slowly. Starting with these two Ryder and Honey Bee. Chapter 3 will be rewritten soon. Let me know what y’all think about the rewrites.
Jack sighed as he finished. “And that's what happened.”
Ryder could only shake her head as she took another sip of her tea. She was happy that baby boy was okay. But, to hear what happened to him. To know someone close to him had hurt him. Possibly tried to. She could feel her other half trying to claw its way out of her. It wanted to make that mare pay. That mare had better thank her lucky stars her world was not connected to theirs. Otherwise her and Honey Bee would be on the way. She saw a teapot walk over to her and look up at her. It offered some more tea.
She politely declined. “No, thank you.”
The teapot nodded and walked away. The two continued to talk for a little while longer; after awhile Ryder stood up and exited the home. Before she could head to the first district Jack had given her a ticket to the motel located above the cafe there. She thanked him before leaving. As Jack closed the door he heard a buzzing sound.
He asked himself. “A phone?”
He followed the buzzing sound to the guest room. As he slowly pushed open the door; the buzzing grew a little louder. Thankfully, it wasn't loud enough to wake her or Sparky. But, if it continued it would eventually wake them up. He found the phone on the nearby desk. He figured Hitch had placed it there when he put her in the bed. He picked it up and looked at it's screen. She was getting a call from someone named Pipp. He silenced the phone and looked back at the two. Smiling as he saw them sleep peacefully. He could hear Sparky purring happily as he rested against her. Quietly, he stepped out of the room and back into the living room. After shutting the door the phone started to buzz again.
He answered the phone. “Hello?”
He could only hear static; he managed to hear bits and pieces of a voice. But, the phone was out of range. He ended the call and pulled another card from his pocket. He threw it at the wall and another door appeared. This time it was to his room. He opened the door and walked in. He walked over to his workbench and sat the phone down. The phone kinda looked like their communicator. He wondered if he could? He opened a drawer and pulled out a manual; he opened it to the index and skimmed its page for the page number he needed. When he found the number he turned to its page and studied it. He nodded as he opened another drawer and pulled out a small tool box.
He spoke to himself. “Time to make an upgrade.” He grabbed the phone and placed it in the center of the bench. He read the manual as he pulled a small screwdriver out of the box.
Back in Maretime Bay the figure from before kept a close eye on Sunny. She was already being escorted back to her home by Izzy. She still looked broken. Good, that meant she was vulnerable. He wondered why his master didn't go for her back in the jail. They had her right there at her most vulnerable. She was broken completely. So why hadn't he seized the opportunity to take her. He growled a little as he watched her walk up to the doors.
He spoke. “You're gonna pay Sunny.” He started to make his way to the town's exit. He continued. “One way or another. You're gonna pay.”
As he left the town he galloped all the way back to the surrounding woods. He stopped only for a moment to stare back at the town. A place he used to be proud to call home. A place that used to be the jewel by the sea. A place that used to be home to only Earth ponies. A place he........now hated with every fiber of his being. He continued running into the forest. He ran deeper and deeper into its domain. He came to a stop at a small thicket; he scanned the area around him to make sure he was not followed. The moment he saw it was clear; he lifted his hoof and stomped it into the ground. The thicket opened and he walked in. it closed shortly after.
Inside the thicket was a stone lair; a lair illuminated only by the light of a small fire. The figure walked in and sat down by the fire. He stared into it's flames for a moment; before he gazed at the darkness that lay beyond the fire. A darkness that the fire refused to illuminate. A darkness that hid the form of his master.
A voice spoke from the darkness. “What do you have to report?” The voice was horse.
The figure answered. “Master, Sunny Starscout has returned to the Bright house.”
The voice asked. “Is she still broken?”
The figure nodded and answered again. “For now.” He added. “But, I'm sure her friends are going to bring her spirits back up.” He started to suggest. “I believe we should.”
The voice interrupted him. “And, what of the lizard and his master?”
The figure gritted his teeth; not wanting to talk about those two. Especially, him. The one that had everything he wanted. The one that had become the very thing he longed to be. The one who took it all away from him. He answered in slight disgust. “They are gone. I'm not sure where.”
There was a silence in the lair; a silence only broken by the occasional crackle of burning wood. The two sat in the silence. The figure continued to gaze into the darkness at his master. He was tempted to suggest the amulet again. But, his master all but clung to it like a lifeline now. He wasn't sure what the amulet did to them. But, whatever it did; it worked and now his master would not let it go.
The voice spoke. “This changes nothing.” The sound of glass being moved across the floor was heard. The figure watched as a small jar slid out from the darkness. Inside the jar was some kind of clear creature. It violently threw itself against the jar; trying to escape it's prison.
The figure picked the jar up and looked at the creature. It was as small as a bug; but it was vicious. He asked. “What is this?”
The voice answered. “A creation of mine.” It instructed him. “Sneak into the Brighthouse after the sun has set. Release the creature near Sunny Starscout and it will break her from her dreams.”
The figure nodded and put the jar away. It was then black smoke started to circle around his body. He smiled as the smoke moved across his body; before it was absorbed granting him even more magical power. Yes, he could feel the power coursing through his body. Power that would make him the strongest in all of Equestria.
He thanked his master. “Thank you, Master.” He bowed in respect and repeated. “Thank you, my liege.”
The voice chuckled before the opening in the thicket revealed itself again. The figure walked towards the exit and left the lair. Leaving the voice alone. As the thicket closed the voice snuffed out the fire. A pair of yellow eyes opened in the darkness. Eyes that held so much evil in them. It glared forward as it continued to plot its revenge. Soon, it will have a form of it's own again. Soon, it will be returned to it's rightful place as Equestria's ruler. Soon, he will return. He just had to wait a little longer.
Zipp groaned as her eyes slowly opened. For a moment she had forgotten where she was. But, her memory came back to her seconds later. She looked around the room she was in. The room itself looked rather cozy and welcoming. She noticed a nightstand near the bed she rested in. There was a glass of water on it and beside the water was some kind of black ball. There was also a note on the stand. She reached for the note; it instructed her to drink the water and to eat the ball. She looked at the items; she reached for the water and took a quick sip of it. The cold water eased her dry throat. While the black ball; she was a little nervous about it. She reached for it and simply stared at it. She then took a small bite. Only to finish it completely seconds later. The ball tasted like coffee and cinnamon.
She heard Sparky giggling from the other side of the door. Slowly, she got out of bed and walked to the door. As she opened the door she saw her nephew jump at a gryphon. A real gryphon. She thought they were just legends. But, no there was one right there. And, it was playing with her nephew. She heard the gryphon giggle as she caught him and fell over. Sparky laughed as he nuzzled the gryphon.
Honey laughed as she said. “Got me again.” She sat up and lifted him up. She heard him squeal in happiness as she sat him back down. She watched as he was prepared to charge her again. Before he did though; she saw him noticed something to their right. She looked and saw the pegasus from earlier. She smiled and greeted her. “Evening.”
Sparky laughed as he ran up to his Aunt and hugged her leg. Zipp looked down and smiled at him before picking him up. She looked back at the gryphon and asked. “Are you a?”
The gryphon interrupted her. “A gryphon.” She smiled and continued. “Yes.” She introduced herself. “My name's Honey Bee.” She extended a claw to her and finished. “Nice to meet you Zipp.”
Zipp asked her. “You know me?”
Honey nodded and answered. “Hitch told me about you.” She noticed Sparky reaching for her again and smiled. “You want me to hold you Sparky?”
Sparky giggled and cooed as he continued to reach for her. Zipp looked down and noticed how her nephew reached for her. Honey gently grabbed Sparky and pulled him into her hold. He giggled before hugging her and then climbing onto her back. As Honey waited for him to get comfortable; the home shook as a loud boom echoed from outside.
Zipp asked. “What was that?!”
Honey answered. “Hitch and Jack are dealing with some Clow in the courtyard.”
She asked. “Some what?”
Honey looked at her and thought a little bit about what to do next. She could tell her about the Clow. But, then again she could also show her them. She chose the later option and motioned for the pegasus to follow her. Both of them walked outside and she lead them to the ledge that overlooked the courtyard.
When Zipp looked down into the courtyard; she couldn't believe what she was seeing. Jack and Hitch were fighting some kind of creatures. Creatures that looked like they were made of the stars. The one Hitch was fighting had what looked like a sword in it's hold. While Jack was fighting two smaller ones. She watched as Hitch dodged an attack.
He yelled. “Fight with me Kilthane!”
A glow seemed to come from Hitch and out of no where another creature appeared. The creature looked awesome. It was armored from head to toe and it carried a massive shield and sword. It blocked an attack from the creature in front of it and pushed it back.
Honey asked. “Cool huh?”
Zipp asked her. “What in the world are those?”
Honey answered. “Clow.” She watched as Hitch's titan slashed one of the Clows. She explained what they were. “They're beings that feed off the life energy of a world. Horrible things they are.”
Zipp nodded and asked. “Okay, then what is that thing fighting with them?”
Honey answered. “That thing is also a Clow.” She giggled a little at the confused look on Zipp's face. She explained. “Certain Clow can be tamed and used to fight against others.” She motioned towards the titan on the field and explained. “That Clow is a Titan. They're spirit Clow that inhabit magical artifacts called amulets. In order to tame them you have to beat them or prove you have a kindred spirit with them.”
Zipp nodded as she looked at Jack. He sprinted at two Clow that were in front of him. His fist glowed brightly as he entered into a fist fight with them. She asked. “Is he using Clow also?”
Honey nodded and answered. “Yes, but not the kind like Hitch is using.” She informed. “Watch what's happen.”
Zipp focused on the battle below; Jack had just defeated one of the Clows'. She watched as it faded into small balls of energy. The energy flew through the air and into his gear. She was about to ask what just happened; only to have Honey Bee explain. “He's using Clow armaments. Special gear that allows him to fight Clow with their own strengths. The only way to get those is by beating certain Clow and picking up their gear.”
Zipp could only nod as she watched the fight. She was amazed seeing the two of them fight. As she focused on Hitch; she wondered how long he had kept this from them? How long had he known about this place and about these creatures. She also wondered what else he had been keeping from them. She then looked at Honey and Sparky. She noticed Sparky was wearing some kind of headband and an amulet. Was he a Clow user also?
As the last Clow the two looked up at them and waved. Honey smiled before she turned and started walking down the stairs. Zipp followed behind them as they regrouped. Hitch smiled as he hugged his son; while Jack collected the remaining energy.
When Jack noticed Zipp he said. “Hey, catch.”
He threw something at her; she caught it and got a better look. She spoke. “Hey, it's my phone.”
Jack spoke. “Yeah. I upgraded it so that you can talk to whoever has been calling you.”
Zipp wondered what he meant by that. When she turned the screen on; her eyes went wide in shock. She had over one hundred missed calls and texts. All from her sister.
Author's Note
Chapter 3 has been rewritten. Can you guess the references I made with the crow? Also chapter will be posted but fair warning it’s mainly gonna be a filler.