The Mad King of Adventure

by The Archiver

Rating: mature
Tags: Spike, Suicide / Self Harm, Adventure, Violence, Princess Celestia, Crossover, Sex, Anthro, Main 6, Profanity, Gore, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Death, Alternate Universe, Human, Romance, Princess Luna, Original Character
Length: 54573

This is the crusade across what is known as the "Joint Lands." An anomaly that came into existence once a legend without fame unknowingly changed the course of reality.

“I think therefore I am” a sweet lie to live by, is it not?

As a human being, it is a dream for most to want thrills, excitement and adventure but what happens when that is all brought to reality because they were misplaced into a new world? What happens when deals are made that someone couldn't have ever hoped to account for, when they warp and change all at the hands of gods and goddesses as one giant game to them. A human will simply adapt through it all. Gather allies and friends, chase dreams that are always out of reach, and become the second coming of that legend that is void of fame because whether the vessel likes it or not, they have already set everything into motion and the world will not stop spinning for one's own safety.

This is the story of one such human, one who thought themselves to be crafty and tricky. Their self-preservation is held high in their mind and as a legend less adventurer in a world filled with adventurous spirit, someone has to be the rational one.

A Nasuverse, slight D&D aspects, and major homebrew setting displaced. This is a formal warning.

(A displaced story and tags are subject to change throughout story)

(Thank DisplacedWriter for the cover art)

Published 2024-09-02 20:10:00 UTC
Last updated 2025-02-08 22:22:22 UTC

Chapter 1

(Perspective of view: ???)

‘GAME OVER!’

My mind blanks, how did this happen to me before I could even make waves? Such pitiful splashes in such a vast ocean and it was all wasted because of some sort of deity I stood no chance against.

“It’s not my fault.” I calmly look at the black void before me with a rage waiting to burst out. “So get that out of my face. It’s your fault, it’s everyone’s fault, for sending me to this godforsaken planet! Even after I tried so hard to be selfish you did this to me- FUCK!” I thrust a fist out into the open, attempting to do the impossible and punch nothingness.

I can not even begin to accumulate a proper sentence for this damnable circumstance. “THIS IS YOUR JOKE? A CURSED EXISTENCE FOR SEVEN YEARS OF TORMENT JUST TO END UP GONE?! No, screw whoever’s out there and everything in between.” My mind goes haywire, the rage that had built up previously turns into spite.

A maddening grin wisps and dances around the edge of my face. I point a finger out into the abyss, past those words that state otherwise. “Nah I don’t think so, you made me care for that family, my little sister and brother still need me. This is your responsibility so you better fix it. I could feel how important they were, more so than me. You already got what you wanted for amusement so let's try out a different game.

‘...Player (???’s) plead has been heard, considerations shall be made.’

“That’s all I needed to hear.”

My body shoots up from my desk, awoken by a fierce thunderbolt that hits what feels like just outside my dorm room's window. My head swings from side to side to check my surroundings.

“That was probably the weirdest and most vivid dream I’ve had up to date, I’ve gotta stop doing so much last minute studying.” I shake my head, disappointed in my life choices.

I'm laid back on my chair, positioned to be sitting directly in front of my monitor; wiping the bit of saliva from my mouth I sigh. Usually I'm not one to enjoy games but this one is one I make an exception for. I only come back to test out new updates and for nostalgia. Yet my memory is foggy. When’d I even boot this up today? Was there a new update that was going to tickle my fancy? Something was obviously different about today and the storm outside isn't helping the atmosphere.

Thunder constantly strikes outside my window as if the storm's epicenter was the top of my dorm room ceiling. I got up from my tiny shared dorm room and stretched my legs out before turning back to my screen while still standing.

I was currently face to face with a giant void of nothingness, as soon as I logged in there was nothing but a green and violet light that almost seemed to stare me down but nothing like this was in the update log so where the hell am I?

"Worry not new wanderer, we have been allowed to cross the borders between realities and bring you here onto us." A distorted voice rang out.

This was definitely new, no not the voice acting, they’ve been adding chunks of that every now and again, but the scenario itself. “Interesting, are they releasing a new class or does this have something to do with those rumored blessings that were going to be released?” I speculated aloud, while yet another strike of thunder hits what feels like only a floor above me.

“I am not one to lead others astray with deceit. My youngest champion to date, I bring a once in an existential lifetime opportunity. O’ wandering hermit, you are not special, yet you have been selected, truly a conundrum.”

Deep breath in, deep breath out, keep your composure and compartmentalize what you can handle. “You can hear me- ah I did leave my microphone on. Okay since you can hear me then you mind telling me the details of this newest projection of an endeavor or your name?” I cautiously inquired.

I paused and quickly added. “If it’s not too much trouble of course, I’d like to know in order to be prepared since I’m not all that special like you said.” My stomach nearly regurgitated its contents after saying that. “The how is checked off, now to see the why. Nobody needs to spend a ten minute conversation going in circles.”

“I may not, for that is your decision. My true name is too early to give and we will not meet again until some time so that is not important either. The only thing I can manage to say for certain is that abnormalities may always find their way to you no matter your desire. Though I myself am curious for a peak at your new life to unfold.” I watch, right before my eyes as the mysterious light pulsates several different colors, all before it settles on its previous green and violet color scheme. “Hm, crafty one, ye who will ne’er to be bound unto one god or goddess but instead attach different pieces on to different lifestyles, different magicks, new life, a true machination created.”

Vague, exactly how I despise all my answers. Fine, there was a reason why I was good at games that prevented online information from helping new players. “Unsatisfied but I’m fine, mystery voice, actually I think I’ll opt out for now and rejoin later.”

"Enjoy your mundane life while you can Ryan Steele, the mundane will soon seem like paradise once you see what is in store for you." And that's when my computer crashed and I stood there for a few good seconds.

"...I think that's enough online games for one day, I think I need to go take a breather." Realistically there was no way that they could have known my damn name without giving that information, in such a case as this I did not. But even then what are they going to do with that information? Blackmail me out of the hundreds of thousands that play this game? Not very likely.

Pushing myself away from my setup I try to walk over to open the bedroom door when I suddenly get some type of terrible gut feeling as if telling me that I will die if I go out there.

"Forget it, I’m going to get my friend." I couldn't care less about what my body is trying to tell me. I open the door anyway, walking through it with my eyes closed. Re-opening them I find myself directly in front of a really tall pale woman with uncanny horse qualities, nightgown, giant bed and all. So I do what any man would do in that situation.

"WHAT THE FUCKKKKKKKKKK?!" I screamed from the top of my lungs like a real man does.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Oh and the lady joined me with her not so pretty voice, impossibly delightful to my eardrums.

My head starts spinning as if I got put inside of a grinder. “Okay this is getting too damn weird for me, and will she shut up?!”

“Shuttttt up already!” Guess I told her anyway. She continued for a few more seconds before coming to a stop and settled for staring at me like a creep. “Okay okay let’s just think about this logically yeah horse girl?”

The giant hybrid looked down at me with distaste and immediately raised an eyebrow? “Whorse?! You call me a whorse when you magically broke into my residence? What backwater place did you grow up in where that is something appropriate to do?”

Now it was my turn to be confused because number one I’m in front of what could only be described as the impossible, and number two that’s exactly what she is. “Huh- actually don’t care I’m glad that the freak out only lasted the few minutes it did rather than for hours on end. Let’s take it from the top and work our way down through the list, as sapient beings we can handle this, can you?”

A small grin appeared on the white horse human hybrid’s mouth. Exactly what I like to see. “Ha! You have more patience and calm qualities than most of my citizens. My name is Princess Celestia, ruler of Equestria. And you are?”

“That confirms my theory that either I’m dreaming, comatose which is the most likely, or ended up being spatially misplaced, but my heart rate is skyrocketing to its maximum beats per minute so that could rule out dreams but why a world that runs off a Monarchy or potential Diarchy, most of all she feels fake, like this impatient mask is waiting to burst open… unless it’s a simulation, time to do what I do best and take this step by step-”

“-heard me?” The strange supposed princess leaned down in front of my face with an expression of curiosity.

I can add spacing out in front of royalty onto the list of screwups. “Apologies I spaced out, still trying to take in these past few minutes. I’m Ryan Steele, a human and college student. Nice to make your acquaintance.”

The giant slowly crouches down and extends her hand and I can’t believe I didn’t notice but her feet are hooves, so she is part horse. “I have a feeling we will be getting along just swimmingly Ryan. But you could have called yourself a Castellan instead. You are all humans in the end.”

I rapidly blink over and over again. “Did you just say Castellan?! Excuse my immediate response because it will sound strange to you but there’s only so much one could take without inquiring on the reasoning. I’m gonna need to ask you some basic questions as of now, if that is of no problem to you.”

Celestia or tall horse girl, whichever or, scratches her chin in mock thought, but the interest she had was too obvious to be illegitimate. “Hm, I do have a half day but a situation such as this could excuse my absence with no notice prior to before.”

I smile, letting go of her hand. “Buuuuuut?” I playfully asked.

“But you seem to be a special case. And the recent six months have proven eventful, why not allow them to continue being so?”

Yeah, we’re definitely gonna get along fine.

It had been hours and I mean hours as we were speaking to one another about this stuff. The sun outside had long since set and apparently she’s the one who sets it. We had both been sitting on opposite chairs for what was essentially her bedroom.

“You guys have how many man-eating creatures?!”

Celestia looks at me with amusement. “We call them mare-eating but not including undiscovered species, non-variants of megalodaunts then somewhere around one hundred give or take but it seems to be rapidly increasing.”

Over a hundred… All magical, most in games that I’m familiar with. This is insane but so fascinating. I need to get a journal for all this. Although studying sucks so there’s that. “And you have no qualms about me believing that I’m from an entirely different world and just happened to have taken on the appearance of a race that’s well known here? Actually you’ve lived for thousands of years so I can see why you’d believe that.”

The tall ho- wait no, the tall Alicorn grins, she places a hand on her own thigh. “Something tells me that I won’t need to validate whether or not that’s true. Because I have a proposition for you.”

I briefly feel my heart drop from my chest. And the legitimate smile I once held becomes a forced one. “That face she’s doing. That small curve with the grin. It’s different from before. She’s not giving out body language she was previously doing.”

“Since you seem intelligent enough, I trust you not to leap out at me.” She taps the wooden side of her chair four times before sighing. It’s still enough for me to hold out hope. “Technically I could have you arrested here and now, you’d get about ten years for lying to a government official and twenty years for terrorism charges I could add just by saying you tried assassinating me.”

Instantly my fake smile drops as I begin to scowl, yet I do not interject. Where the hell is this coming from? “But you see, the Unicorn I mentioned earlier? Twilight Sparkle my student, she needs something to look after her. She may not look it but she will be the key to everything, and I must leave as few things to chance as possible.” My scowl transforms into expressionlessness, a strange but familiar cold fills my system. “Do not think I haven’t realized you taking little bits and pieces of our conversation and turning them upon me. I require that, someone calculating with a proverbial cold inside, to be by her side at all times and will not shy away from moral consequence. If you truly do come from another dimension then prove so. Prove that your morals are different and I will be the one to let you to an asylum”

My expression doesn’t change, motionless my gaze continues past her. An involuntary mental chuckle escapes from the rims of my mind. “… Hehehe she’s serious?! There’s no doubt about it, her gaze is unwavering. Lobbed from one world of people with total control over the common folk, onto the next. And I can either serve prison time for more than a decade with nothing to know of this world which would result in almost guaranteed death or eternal struggle. Or become subservient to a babysitting job for the rest of my life.”

“I can tell why you don’t have many friends as of now, Celestia. Heck I’d rather try and fend against the wolves than do this.” I calmly state, even the smallest mental jab would help me feel better about myself. “You’re forcing me to do a baby sitting job. for the supposed good of this entire planet which sounds completely deluded.”

“Buuuuuuut?” This lady really used my own line made with good conscience as if she had one herself. Might as well play along.

My heart beats as if they were drums in anticipation, it’s now or never. If I lay out my cards and she doesn’t like ‘em, fuck it then. “But I’m going to do it, to follow my dreams, not because I’m backed into a corner or because this is the correct option. It doesn’t matter if it’s logical or correct, just that it’s right.” I raise up from my seated position to stand in front of her, fist balled as if I were to strike, but she knows I won’t. Her eyes hold a depth I cannot grasp yet. “This is only because my heart is telling me that there’s something to be done for my own selfish benefit. And if you think I’ll let some cold, egotistical, fake, conniving prick stop me from having my fun then you’re dead wrong. I’m gonna take this in style, my style. So they’ll be my calls to make when decisions get tough.”

My breathing grows heavy, I’m still staring daggers into the witches’ eyes. She still stares at me as if I’d only told a poem. “And most of all, I’m gonna hate every aching moment that I’m around you. One day this is going to backfire on you, wench.”

“Ryan Steele, you stare directly into the one who holds your fate in their hands yet you disrespect them inside their own home, proclaim that you will only take on a noble task that shall be for the betterment of Equestria as a whole only for selfish reasoning, and this is all coming from a foreigner.” Celestia’s grin grows to an uncanny size. “Congratulations Mr. Steele, you pass. Come with me, the Night Guard should be able to seat you in a substitute bunk until tomorrow where proper accommodations will be made.” The giant got up from her seat, beaming with pride as if she’d won a gold medal and walked out of her door, walking off.

“There better be benefits for me, cake for brains.” I not-so passive aggressively state.

Even though her backside is obscured to me I could feel the eye rolling from even over here.

“I’ll be off this leash soon enough, ain’t nothing lasts forever, not even an immortal like her. One mistake is all I need. Throw salt in a devil’s eyes and run from one situation to another; I need to remember that mysterious woman’s advice; I will eventually reach this world’s greatest peak.” I hurry from my side and follow her out the door, a small cloud of misery now accompanying over my head.

Twilight snaps her fingers out right in front of me. Knocking me out of my very focused daydream.

“Ryan, come on we’ll miss the Summer Sun Celebration.” Ah there’s her voice, as demanding as ever. Daydreaming while we’re about to leave Canterlot together probably isn’t ever a good idea. But I mean she’s dressing like she’s about to head over to school. A damn beige sweater and dress pants. Somebody needs to teach her how to actually look like a normal person who's super intelligent and already passed college.

“Fuck! Lately all I’ve been thinking about is that moment.” My skull feels as though its pounding in on itself but I keep it together. “I can’t keep pulling my mind back there or else I’ll lose control of my emotions and that’s the last thing I need after being kept in Canterlot for seven years of constant mediocre training.” Someone like me can’t afford that, especially after a painful routine day in and day out. Take myself out of the situation and address it later, calm down.

My bro comes to the rescue as we’re all getting ready to leave Canterlot castle at this exit to this niche town called Ponyville. Stupid ass name, stupid place I’m sure. “Twi give the man a break, he finished his training only a week ago. He’s been doing this ever since I was a hatchling, I think we can cut him some slack. Besides, you’re not too psyched about this yourself.” Spike rightfully countered. At least he knows how to dress from his big bro, me of course, a regular black jacket, and blue jeans, the regular outfit of a person who doesn’t care.

Twilight struggled to not just blow up on the spot and instead settled for silently staring at her little sibling. The drake almost cracked under pressure until I opened the door leading outside.

I stretched my arms and looked at my half broken amulet that's wrapped around my neck, purely white as if it were made of snow and the opened half circle that represents the insignia has multiple shards sticking through it. Just another mystery about myself to figure out, one I do not have time for. “Guys guys, I’m gonna go, jeez. You all make it seem like arguing is normal for us all. And since you're so keen on me being prepared then remind me again, what's an Art?”

Twilight rolls her eyes. "An Art is something that can be taught to others similar to a martial art's standpoint, the main trees that are focalized are fists, spears, swords, daggers, and magic." She huffs and even whips her tail to the floor. "Now can we get going?" She points at the chariot waiting for us in front of stairs descending in front of this castle. “We’ve got ponies waiting for us Ryan, Princess Celestia is counting on us to make sure everything goes as planned here.”

Oh yeah, for some reason even though there’s an abundance of other races here, ponies will still refer to majorities of groups as ponies. Surprisingly enough, while I have met other races before like Vinds or Minotaurs, I never made friends with any. (surprise surprise. Issues were obviously had)

My boots clack against the hard stairs, descending to our ride. “Right Twi, sorry for making you think you had to protect your big bro, Spike. Pretty sure your sister is only acting crazy because of that strange book she read, something something, Made in a Tomb, right?”

Spike shrugged his shoulders, not all too pleasant for being dragged out of the castle. "Close enough, I'm doing my best to tune out the craziness and your spontaneousness."

Twi huffed and puffed and annoyed my mental fortitude with her nerdiness. “She’s the Mare on the Moon and for the last time she’s real!” Twiggles yelled, making me chuckle in the process.

“Whatever you say princess.” I jokingly retorted, heh, imagine that. Twilight Sparkle being a princess, my little sister? Yeah when gravity permanently stops working.

I leap forward into the carriage which is attached to two Pegasi with a just smile. “Time for me to go meet some people outside of a Canterlot. This is a new opportunity and maybe, against all odds I can stay out more on good behavior.”

Watching through the opening in the carriage I witness the town we are in become closer and closer to my vision and our flying vehicular. “Can’t believe it, I’m gonna be making some friends that I won’t be introduced to in a place other than Canterlot.”

“Ryan, ten bits says that you won’t dive out of the window before we land.” Spike randomly says outta the blue.

I stop for a moment, turning my eyes to stare out of the corner of my eye with a devious smile. “Who won’t? I know for a fact you aren’t talking about me.”

Twilight brings her hands to the sides of her forehead to gently massage them. “Ryan if you do this I swear I’m going to buck your head in.” She can already tell I’m gonna do it though, Twi’s been around me long enough to know my habits and what I’ll do.

Not bothering to tell a sayonara. I dive through the carriage’s open window and even do a small spin in the air, consequently landing on my back. I cannot stress this enough, mistakes were made. I felt a discomfort in my spine but besides that I’m fine. I've always been doing dumb things, even when I was back home on Earth.

As I stand on my own two feet, my face is suddenly having a very intimate love making session with the ground. Feeling the hardness of a hoof crash into the back of my skull.

“Didn’t I tell you what I’d do?!” I can hear Twilight shout above my head.

I get up and crack my neck. Looking down at my health bar. Which is something I still don't know how I accomplish. All I need to do is will for it to happen and wala! I can magically see it. Bottom line is, Twilight did a whopping 5 percent damage to my total health pool.

“Spike said I wouldn’t do it, and you know I’d never allow my little brother to play with my name like that. By the by, please if you would, sir, hand over my ten bits.” I extend my hand out and instead of putting the ten bits into my hand he instead drops them all on the floor.

He unapologetically looks at me with a shit eating grin. “Whoops, guess you’ll have to pick them up.”

I crack a smile myself but for different reasons. “Sometimes I wonder how I have not resorted to kicking his scaly ass.” I walk over the bits which immediately disappear on the ground and reappear on the bottom left of my hotbar, which reads a whopping “600” bits now.

My smile slightly wavers. “Silver linings of not going insane I guess.”

Spike shoves his claws into his jacket's pocket. "I'll never get over how you can do that."

"Ryan, are you completely sure that you'll never tell us how you accomplish such a feat? Even the Princess doesn't know, maybe you could finally let me study your biology." Twilight half-asked and half-demanded of me.

I'll never get tired of seeing those confused faces. "Family secret, sorry."

Twilight steps past me and onto my boots. Damn hooves actually hurt. “You never even met your- ugh whatever. Enough playing around everypony, we’ve got a list of checks that we need to fill out.”

“Why don’t I check for my list of quests I don't have.” I said loud enough for only Spike and I to hear, making him start giggling with laughter, only causing Twilight to huff and puff further.

I’m walking along with Twilight and Spike, my casual fit is rocking right now. This black striped shirt underneath my opened blue three button up jacket along these nice black jeans and boots I got on, can’t say I could be any happier right now. That’s when I hear it though, a leaf cracking behind us as we walk, I seem like the only one who actually notices though. Behind me is some cracked out looking pink pony. She's got pink shorts, blue shirt that says “party” in pink. Before I can get any closer to see her the weird one slowly shuffles back into the depths of the forest. Not even the girl's hoof prints were left from what I can tell.

I shake my head and turn back around. “Just when I'm finally released from the prison known as Canterlot it feels like I'm gonna end up in a real prison by going insane. I will probably gonna need a drink after today, or several.”

Arriving from the outskirts of this crazy bizarre town, heh nice, we stopped at some farmer’s house. Never really was a fan of continuous hard labors. Some girl, or mare, if you wanna be a nerd about it was pacing back and forth at their front porch. Almost as if she was going to lose her dang head. She was wearing what I expected a farm girl to wear, long jeans, white tank top, black belt around the waist, and a brown stetson or whatever they’re called.

“Um excuse me miss, are you Applejack? I am Twilight Sparkle, I’m supposed to be overseeing the caterers for the Summer Sun Celebration and it’s supposed to be the “Apple” family.” Twilight called out as we made our way up to her.

The orange pony in question almost jumps a whole foot in the air. “Y-Yea I’m Applejack, pleasure to meet you all!” Her two hands outstretched and grabbed onto Twilight’s shaking her up and down in the air.

It takes a lot of willpower to not start laughing again. “Damn she’s practically got you flying Twi.”

Spike’s eyes travel from Applejack’s farm girl arms, completely mesmerized by their raw strength. I bump his shoulder for staring too much as their handshake ends.

“Psst… Stop being weird bro.” Spike starts shaking his head over and over again before actually coming back to me.

“My bad Ryan, her strength was off the charts though. Had to get a good look at those muscles man.” Yeah Spike’s about reaching that age threshold, can’t even blame him for saying something like that. She's got some serious muscle on her, heck, I wouldn't even mind a piece. Dude needs to look alive though, stare for too long and someone might notice.

All of that had just made me think. “Man, I just realized how boring this could get. Walking through different homes to check up on how they’re doing and then spending the rest of my day in a library.”

Finishing up that thought, a bell rings out from Applejack’s home. “Oh I’ve been waiting for this all day.” She cups both of her hands on her mouth. “Soup’s on everypony!” The farm mare says.

I decide to quickly check my menu to see what the time is. Just to gauge what I'm about to do. Though, I didn't know that I could glitch in real life since there seems to be a visual error.

(Player: Ryan Steele)

Power: E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Born: E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Race:E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Age:E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Time: 11:50 AM

Strength:I̙̱̭͂̎̓ṋ̍ţ̛̝̥́͠e̛̜̦͓̞͒̕͠r̦͂f̯̖̖̮̟̉̓̔̔͡e̖̮̣͊͑͟͡͝ṟ̨̻̜̬́̌́́̚e̠̲̬̎̀͞n̨̬̞̋̂͆c̠͙͐͝è͖
Fortitude: I̟̰̪͗̋̄̕͜r̡̬͒́r͖͔͂͂ȩ̤͎̎͌͂̿ͅĺ̡̧̰̲͚͑̋̾̍ȅ̩̭͈͂̅v̹̾á̯͍̖̇͗ṅ̜̜̆ṯ̏
Agility: N̞̝̜̯̒͛̄̈́ọ̯̌̃t̨̛̛̤ ̜̚f̡̱̠͆͘͞ȁ̘̱̀st ̡̠̽̋͐ͅȇ͖̲̀n͉̳͚̭̣̉̐̂̌̆o͕̯͗͒ǘ͖̲̖̪̌́͝g͚̝̥̹̀̌̔͒h̡̳̜͖̀̓̓̄
Intelligence: M͕̘͙̮͑̒͘̕ạ̢̚͞n̤͆ŭ̗ḟ̹̼̣͇̞̎͂̅̾a̻͐c̩͍̀͛t̖̝̔̂ư̙̜̝̂̕ṙ͕̱̕͟͠ȅ̳͕̞͓͌̋͂d̮̹͛̉ ̨̹̄̄
Willpower: H͈̠͆̽o̧̱̦̿̔͞ŕ̻ȑ͇̖̬̗̓̂̾î̯̦̠͆̓̃ͅf̛͇̥̑i̺̠̝̿̏́ed̨̪̩̀̀͊
Charisma: N̩͕̬͋̍͠ò̤̳̄t̛͈̲̝̃͑̅͟h̡̨̛̤͖̃̊͘i͐͟ǹ̖͕͔͗̆́͟g̙̯̭͂͗͝ǹ̦̦̼͔͂̂́͢͠ě̞͚̱̀͞ss̘͕̩̅̋͝
Attunement(s):I̫̱͛̑ņ̟̹̗͐̋͒͘co̢̹̹̥̍̎́͞m̡̛̺̭̈́͂̐͜p̋ͅa̯̠͓̼͗̏̓̈͟͠ẗ̨͎̪͗̿ȋ̺̞͗ḃ̗̘̕l̦̆ḛ̦͕̯̗̄̈́̓̂͘ ̺̦͖͗̓͠

Investment Points: N̛̮̘̩͒̚u̻̣̰͉̪̿̔̈̈́̄ĺ̰̙̳̍́̐̕͟͟l̜̑

Heavy Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜
Medium Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜
Light Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜

There should be a lot more concern for this yet I'd rather choose to deal with this at a later time than deal with Twi's nagging. So then I smile and activate one of my base class skills (Stealth) partially turning invisible. It ain’t perfect, the invisibility I mean. It's more akin to translucency. Though if I stay behind something then it’s hard to notice me.

“Oh well then we don’t want to interrupt your evening’s dinner, right Ryan?” Twilight turned around only to find Spike there, shrugging his shoulders. “Where in the world did Ryan go?”

Spike narrowly turns his head, coming this close to staring at my crouched form. “He had somewhere to go. Told me to keep quiet about it.”

Twilight pinches both sides of her nose. “Ugh this is one of the only times where I didn’t want him to literally disappear on me and go to who knows where.”

“Atta boy…” I smile, silently crawling away. Do I actually have knowledge on the “where?” Nope not at all but I know that I’ve gotta start my own fucking adventure! It’s time for me to take the stage and fulfill my personal promise. This is a true adventure’s mindset, complete and utter selfishness.

(Perspective of view: Third Person)

In the humble confines of Canterlot a Princess stood upon her royal balcony, sporting an even more royal headache. These next grueling hours of patience that had been long sought after, scrounged together with each and every bit of her being, could all be taken away by him.

"Visions, always so vague. Especially when given by a form of precognition someone is heckling to understand.” She leans forward, staring up at the moon. “They both share such an uncanny indistinguishability to one another.” Princess Celestia looks back at the magical lock placed at her door and sighs.

She tightens her grip on her own hand; even to her they somehow appear whiter than before. “Why is it that I feel so weak in such a world I hold so firmly onto? One of my biggest threats is the one I have wrapped around my finger for Faust’s sake!” The temperature of her run takes a sharp increase despite being outside in the warm summer air. Celestia glances down at her own body, shaking her head.

“A wild animal, another unknown to keep track of amongst a pile.” The celestial mover calmly states. “One that could very well bring amongst a new age of disorder, rapid evolution that could lead billions dead, another Drowning waiting to happen. All because some dimensional traveler appeared at the wrong time and wrong place.” A single star shines down from the heavens.

The ascended being’s eyes grow blurry. “I hate myself every day for what I’m doing to him dear sister, I truly do. This is for the good of every creature on the planet and when it’s all over judgment is to be made, until then I will use everything at my disposal to win.”

“But I need to remind myself of what I am: the one born and blessed with eternally white burning flames, those who could incinerate one of chaoticism in an instant.” A sharp flame made of pure scalding radiance surrounds her body. The Alicorn’s clothing is completely unharmed by it, the princesses’ wings extend to both her sides. “I am guided by an eternal light, daughter of Faust, carrier of a fragment of the sun leviathan, and most of all the one who will protect the Joint worlds with her life, by any means necessary.” Her declaration burns through her eyes, the gateway to her very being; it makes way for a small grin on her muzzle.

Princess Celestia uncurls her fist and thoughtful leans against the railing. “Ryan will not impede me, the father of lies could not hope to stop me, and the rest of the world will welcome you dear sister. I swear it, after everything I did to you this is my promise to make up for it. One for the two of us.”

Author's Note

This is it, the first chapter. This, like my other displaced, will primarily be focused on the main character. However with four joint lands mashed together there is an endless array of possibilities. Oh yeah the rating is also mature because of things and stuff that'd be spoiling. So enjoy a new gamer displaced in the mix, one who acts a little differently than normal people.

Chapter 3

(Perspective of view: Ryan Steele)

“We could only afford to renovate and implement two rooms besides the main entrance. This is one of them, the quarters.” Marax led the way through the room that had a few trees crowded around a large pillar that’s structurally supporting the entire room. Several lengths of ropes are interconnected through the supports ingrained into the ceiling. Small floral lights fill the room with illumination.

There’s two bed bunks that are on opposite sides of the room. They don’t look too uncomfortable but I guess this is all they could afford. Those same shelves that were in the main room are here too, only they’re curved and filled with more fictional looking books than non-fiction and or charismatic related ones. Along with three golden medallions on top of the bookshelf but I’m more interested in the books themselves.

One in particular manages to catch my eye. I lean down and pick it up, wiping the dust that's formed on it. ‘Legends of The Four World’s by The Ferryman.

“This book is out of place compared to the rest of them. Why did this stick out compared to the rest of them?” William and Vanishing entered the room soon after we did.

I take the book out of the shelf and hold it up toward William. “Dude, can I borrow this book right here? I promise I’ll return it.”

He raises an eyebrow. “What book is that? Hm… Legends of The Four Worlds? I can not recall ever purchasing that. In that same reasoning I shall allow you to have it.”

“Sweet, I’ll probably end up never reading it though.” I put the book behind me, placing it within my inventory for later usage.

‘Alert! Item “The Legends of The Four Worlds” has been collected. Specific conditions have been met to start a specialized event! Initiating sequence immediately.’

The message spontaneously appears in my vision and scares me half to death in the process. “Oh. My. Goodness. This really is like the starts of those adventure novels! Finally I’m on the right track and all it took was seven years.” I take a deep breath and pace my breathing. “It says hidden so I probably shouldn’t force it, so maybe just maybe I’ll spot it somewhere in plain sight.” I can do this, I only need to get back at the task at hand.

Marax has chilled out. I still don’t know what his or anyone’s problem is for that matter. It’s like being given a small crumb in order to solve a huge mystery. Overall he’s a lot more timid than I originally gave him credit for. I break the piercing silence, starting up the conversation. “It looks like it works as intended. A living quarters. I could probably think of some other compliments. I’m not really cut out for shallow stuff though.” I dryly commented.

Vanishing Flow grunted, not in an aggressive way but instead in an annoyed manner. “That’s it? You had a lot more witty comments when I was touring you through Ponyville. I’m sure you could’ve said something else to Marax.”

I raise a finger to try and defend myself. That’s when I realized my assholishness could be toned down a little for these people I’m not very acquainted with.

“Sorry, you’re right, Vanishing. I’m kinda used to acting like this by default.” Back when I was on Earth I didn’t really do anything besides practice hobbies and attend college. No siblings and no real reason to keep on fighting in life. Sure I had a small part time job but that was working at a walmart. You could’ve called me a dead man walking and I’d laugh.

“Snap outta it!” I feel a hand smack the back of my neck as I instinctively yelp and rub the injured part with my hand, otherwise known as the one I used to make love to. Vanishing is in the corner of my eye, rubbing her hand.

“Sorry, I- wait, was that you who hit me?” I’m surprised she did that, surprised she cared enough to get some sense into me when I was wandering in my head. And if Vanishing rubbing her hand wasn’t enough proof of her being guilty, William and Marax had both got in between us without a sweat.

William looks at me and does his best to calm me down. Not knowing how I’d actually react. “Woah lets not escalate this any further, alright? There’s no need to actually fight.”

“Vanishing Flow, what’d we say about putting your hands on others without them clearly trying to be an aggressor.” Marax did his best to lecture his companion but all he got was an eye roll in return. What’s that, six for six?

She turns her attention from Marax and stares at me instead, giving me a weird stare, hearing my tone change. “Yeah it was me, what do you wanna do about it?” Oh she must be trying to instigate with me. I’d know since I’ve done this a lot with my friends.

“Nothing, thank you Vanishing. And Marax I’m sorry for my lackluster response. This place is actually quite nice. Most of all it’s homey. A nice change from Canterlot I can tell you all that much.” I involuntarily let out a hearty laugh thinking of all the times me and Blueblood would argue over something petty like whether or not an xylophone was a keyboard. (It totally is.)

Marax immediately bore his eyes through my head when I mentioned Canterlot and moved away from Vanishing.

“...You’re from Canterlot?” He asked, no small amount of malice spared from me.

“Well, yeah. How else do you think I could afford this sick ass outfit?” I flex my body and gently place a peck on its bicep, still staring up at the trio as I grin to make a goof outta myself. Even if I didn’t really buy this casual ass outfit and sorta got it from Celestia. That sentence still felt like it needed flexing, both figuratively and literally.

Marax only glared at me in response. For a few seconds it looked like he was ready to charge at me, yet he only shook his head and let up that fiery intensity.

“Gotta figure out what his deal is with Canterlot. I know it’s filled with prissy asshats who can’t take a hint on how to be a normal person in society. The kind of reaction he gave me felt like a lot more than that though.”

William steps aside from me and starts acting like more of a weirdo than I was originally taking him for. He started putting his arms behind his back, trying to act like one of those evil villains you’d find in any type of generic movie or for some strict general for an army. “Ryan these are mixed signals that are being sent here. You are a Castellan yet you do not speak like one. And now you’re saying you come from Canterlot? Something isn’t adding up here.”

“You’re telling me you only realize that now? I thought you were supposed to be our leader.” Vanishing navigated around Marax who didn’t even bother to stop her. And stood beside William where she let out a small ‘hmph’.

I lean back a bit and do my best to calm myself down. “Shit, I knew I should’ve upped my intelligence stat but that’s overrated innit? I can’t possibly be this much of a dunce.” A strange calm flows over me as my brain slows down.

I raise a hand up to back everyone away. “Okay, okay, you all got me. I’m not really what I seem like. And because of that you’d want answers, or so I’d like to think. And I want to be comfortable for the next seven and a half hours. In spirits like those, and people like us, lets make a friendly deal.”

My right hand materializes a wooden spear. “One of you spar with me. If you guys win then I’ll tell you anything you wanna know and how I just did that. If I win, then you all will lay off with this intensity.”

“Um, an idea such as that does not seem to be a good one-”

Marax cut in before William could finish. “Okay, fine then. It’ll give us some answers and me a reason to get you back from earlier.”

“Then I guess that’s a done deal.” I twirl the wooden spear in my hand and snap it in the grasp of my second hand.

Vanishing Flow shakes her head in a disappointing way. “Not in here. You both aren’t going to fight in here, take it outside.”

“Wait, you guys don’t have a training hall here? I could’ve sworn that was the standard.” I let up from my combat position and scratched the top of my head.

Vanishing slowly stares at William. “I told you that would’ve been a good idea William. But noooo we had to get that library and fishing pond installed.”

“Knowledge is plenty more valuable than a simple training hall. Although I will admit the Fishing Room was born from personal desires.” William sheepishly admitted.

“Whatever it doesn’t matter, we’re gonna settle this dispute.” My body becomes adorned with a familiar red clothed shirt, metal pauldron that's tightly fitted on my right shoulder, black leather armor around my upper body, a small pyramid of metal covering around my chest area, and another differently styled pauldron on my left which had several sheets of metal overlapping one another. A surge of mana rushes through my legs as I dash towards the door, appearing as though it were a seamless transition. A trail of sea blue particles are left to briefly dance where I once traveled from. I opened the door and like the gentleman I am, allowed everyone else to pass by me. Earning a singular thank you from William Cobert.

Everyone had gathered around in a single area. One that was left alone by the trees that only surrounded this scheduled place. A regular soft area that has an abundance of grass and flowers around us. Marax and I circle each other. Apparently his choice of weapon was a wooden spear which he picked up by the door when he was leaving, weird.

All of a sudden he pointed his spear in my direction, his free hand was balling up into a fist. “Are you seriously going to fight me with that poor stance? Where’s your spell book at? Actually now that I think about it how did you just make a damn spear poof out of nowher-”

“Oh someone must be getting fierce.” I slyly commented under my breath. “Ah-ah-ah!” I interrupted. “I told you that questions come later. We fight now, simply me and you and I must admit I will be a terrible match up for you. That being said, allow me to teach you the gentle art of folding clothes whilst a person is still wearing them.”

Marax let out an audible ‘huh’ while I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and ran at him. Using fancy footwork I learned from those varying royal guard information, I began to twirl my spear at the same time. It’s supposed to work as a ploy to disorient the opponent. I maneuvered the polearm to strike with the bottom of it as an overhead slam, a blue flash surrounds the weapon as it activates the (Pommel Strike) skill. No matter where someone hits you with the Pommel Strike ability, your vision will get blurry for a few seconds before returning back to normal..

Barely being given enough time to respond Marax quickly raised his own spear while holding both ends of the pole to block the strike. A small flash glint of yellow light flashes where our weapons clashed, which Marax could not see. He twists his waist to move his leg to kick me but I end up letting go of my spear and dash backwards in a second.

“You almost got me right there, almost.” I taunted aloud, turning my spear to be pointed at Marax once again. Charging straight towards him, my spear jabs towards his gut, only for him to offset the thrust, making the same yellow light I previously had seen appear. Indicating that I had been parried once more.

Marax’s spear suddenly stabs me thrice in quick succession. So fast I couldn’t have reacted at that moment when the wooden spear point stabbed at my gut and knocked me back. It takes quite a bit of willpower to not cough up some of the mucus that threatened to escape my throat.

I quickly get back up and check my health and posture bar for good measure.

(Immediate current player’s status)

(Health: 92%)
(Posture: 21%)
(Armor: 66%)
(Ether: 100%)
(Reservoir: 100%)

Okay that didn’t seem to take a lot outta me, only eight percent. “I’ve gotta figure out how this guy fights. I can’t run in there with that same game mentality that I can run it back as many times as needed to win one fight, it’d fuck up my outfit too. Well actually… Nah that’d ruin my trump card.” Mana running and Mana dashing doesn’t take Ether since it’s an extremely basic application like breathing oxygen so it’s noticeable as long as I supply the miniscule amount of magic it needs to function in order to keep it going.

“What are you standing there for? You’re looking at the ground like something’s there.” Marax says as he inches closer, still ready to strike me.

“This guy really must be a Pitfighter class then, that keen eye of his to differentiate from whether or not I was staring at my arm or just in thought. So that must be he used (Triple Strike) on me instead of (Action Surge) from the Warrior class.”

“Eh, I mean I’m not really worried about you- think fast!” I dig behind my pocket as if I were reaching for something and throw a dagger at Marax. I didn’t actually have a second dagger on me, that was the skill (Dagger Throw). Self explanatory except it produces a dagger for you to throw but it disappears as soon as you toss it. Simultaneously I use (Stealth) and turn semi transparent.

“I’m so glad I didn’t yell out “Dagger Throw” as I did it, is because that’s stupid as fuck. I mean, what type of guy just yells out every single attack they’re about to throw at someone and has some stupidly convoluted name in some other language like, I don’t know, japanese.” I take a deep breath to clear my mind, man that really clouded my emotions.

The bronze dagger travels through the air, soaring directly towards Marax’s face. His eyes widen before he dashes back and slashes at the dagger in the air. His eyes immediately pick up on my translucent body and he locks his eyes on me.

“I should’ve known that wasn’t gonna work. Okay, you caught me.” I deactivate (Stealth) on my body and smile. “You’re gonna be one tough cookie I’ll tell you that much.”

“Are we going to act as though that was normal? You know the basic Arts of a thief and of a Pitfighter. How is it possible- oh right, you’re a prick who likes to be a mystery.” I sweat as soon as Marax said that, Vanishing sneaked a glare at him, if only for a second, the self-awareness is killing me here.

“Right on, now you’re getting it pipsqueak.” A small blue aura surrounds my feet. Feeling the (Agility) skill finally activate, I can put my plan into motion, oh yeah! Now I’m really feeling like speed.

Becoming a bit more athletic, I start mana running backwards into the trees, passing back into the forest and reactivating (Stealth). I let go of the spear with one of my hands and use the (Dagger Throw) skill while I’m hopping from tree to tree top. Making my general location difficult to trace.

“You fucking cheater! You can’t go into the trees while throwing out lethal daggers made of real bronze!” Marax shouts as he stands in place, repeatedly deflecting the deadly projectiles I’m throwing out while trying to spot me; he actually fires off a few streams of electricity but they’re uncontrolled. Seeing this he stopped before it could get too out of hand.

“Actually Marax, we never did say he could not enter into the forest. We only say that the rules were the first to admit forfeit, land a ‘killing blow.’ or become immobile would win.” William pointed out, great because I wasn’t going to answer and give away my position.

“Just get down from here!” Marax shouted, noticing the lack of dagger throwing he suddenly shuts up and crouches down further. A soft breeze flows that whispers in the air. I silently jump to the ground, my feet not making a single noise. I creep up behind my opponent, thanking WIlliam for being stupid enough to distract this Dinkerai from our battle.

I hold onto my wooden spear, pointing it directly at Marax’s back. “Peekaboo…” I whisper from behind Marax.

“What the fuck?!” Marax whips his head around. His stand is wide open, his lance isn’t guarding his body, the perfect opportunity for me to score some points!

It's something I had been practicing in Canterlot for a long long while. It's possible to use base Class skills together since they aren’t overly complicated but it’s still difficult to do in actual combat. My spear gets coated in a green energy and a strange green smoke as well. Utilizing the Warrior Class and Pitfighter Class at the same moment, (Action Surge) and (Triple Strike) both activate. This simple wooden spear strikes three times in quick succession at an incomprehensible speed, even I didn’t see what the fuck happened.

A large crack is heard through the forest. The spear I was holding had completely shattered on impact when it struck Marax. He was sent flying back so far he impacted the trees on the other side.

“Shit! Marax are you okay?” Vanishing got up from where she was idly sitting and sprinted towards Marax.

“M-Marax?” William’s face had drained of color. “Ryan, what did you do to him?” As he looked at me from across the field.

I shakily dropped the remains of the spear I was holding. Sweat is rolling down my face. “I-I didn’t mean to. I was in the heat of the moment and- and I thought he could take it well enough. Marax you’re alright, right? C’mon get up, we were just roughhousing with each other.”

William glared into my eyes until he sharply turned around to look at the damages I caused. “Hold on Vanishing, I am coming.” The Adret rushed over to aid his friends in need.

“Why was he that weak? He had no business being that fast and yet so fragile. I took a (Triple Strike) head on and I’m perfectly fine. Against any other player I’d have to combo them to no end so that the bastard would get knocked. I swear I didn’t hit him that hard.”

“But… He’s not, he’s not a ‘player,’ Marax is a real person who doesn’t have a set value that he can work towards, to repeatedly come back after dying over and over again without consequence. Right, I forgot powers come with responsibilities. I bet he was doing his best to hold back against me. Even if I thought of him as someone who was equally as rude as I am, that doesn’t change that Marax’s got standards.”

I grip the splinters in between the palms of my hand, causing them to bleed and cause chip damage to myself.

(Immediate current player’s health)

(Health: 91↓% -Bleed)

“You all need to step aside and get out of my way.” Blood trickles down my fingers. I reach out in front of me and take out a lute from thin air.

Marax starts coughing while both of his friends try nursing his blunt force trauma.

Vanishing raises her head as soon as she hears my words, William tries to calm her down while silently questioning where I got the lute from, putting a hand on her shoulder which she slapped away with something fierce. “Who are you to tell us to step aside right after you used so much force on Marax. Ryan, you had virtually no self restraint while you were sparring.”

Vanishing obviously doesn’t know me because my dad didn’t raise a quitter, I will fix this. “I. Do. Not. Care. I unfuck up my mistakes and this won’t be any different. I’ll make sure it doesn’t happen again. If you don’t trust me then I’m fine with that, it doesn’t change the actions I’m about to commit.”

William raised his hand to try and stop me. “I know you most likely have everyone’s best interests at heart however I cannot simply allow you to do something without our permission. The injury itself is nothing a few days of rest will not fix, therefore it is fine.”

I ignored what William had said, through one ear and out the other. My fingers plucked a few strings as a few circles filled with white appeared in my mind as I closed my eyes, only three appeared, all having a numerical order.

“Time to play Osu for someone, both mentally and physically. Let's hope all those on and off years of actually having to practice for this subclass was worth it.”

One of the most basic and yet most dangerous songs Celestia had a tutor teach me was named “Harmony.” The most basic application of The Song which is extremely difficult to access with musical instruments so you have to cheat it in a counterfeit manner in order to dull the effects.

Using musical instruments that can even play a singular note of The Song can have catastrophic abilities that reflect the soul. With my Lute it’s as if I had a bunch of tiny fingers rapidly tapping on a single piano key in order to play a single sound. In layman’s terms, I’m hitting the world to get it to do a desired effect. This is one of the only classes I can’t bullshit my way through with video game logic. I have to at least hear the song and the conditions for learning is playing a makeshift Osu game inside my mind as I play it.

The SongA small symphony of white circles appears in my mind as I “press” them, my fingers stringing the appropriate cords in response. Focusing on the instrumental part instead of singing it. And then the magicfinally happened.

A small stream of rainbow weaved in Marax’s way, a small chorus built up behind me of voices made from nothingness. The small lump that was forming on Marax’s head began to unswell, healing itself gradually until nothing was left. I kept going, sweat building from my forehead as I started sweating from the amount of exertion I was putting into this.

I was extremely tempted to say screw it right before I finished, wiping the sweat on my brows. I don’t know what god made this song the basis of this world but it’s served me well with this. It’s soft but I hate playing it because of how hard the starting few chords are to play. I might never play this song ever again because of that. Feels like I lose dignity whenever I mess up or lose my musical footing, the melody itself is fine.

“What the fuck!”

Oh right, I managed to open my eyes quick enough to see Vanishing put her hands on my collar and twist it up.

“Vanishing you need to hold on-”

“I’m done with trying to be patient William!” Vanishing snapped her gaze on me, I guess she was trying to give me a good spook. “You’re not a damn Castellan and I’m tired of these mind games you’re playing. Nobody can take the time to practice the Bardic Arts, Pitfighter Arts, Warrior Arts, and Thief Arts while being a normal person unless they had nothing else to do because it was their job. The only Art you haven’t shown the capabilities of, is a Scholar.”

“Between being such a jackass and talented I don’t know what to call you. So I’ll ask one last time.” Vanishing whips out a dagger from her side and points it at my throat. “Who are you and what do you want?” I stiffen up at the prospect of a dagger being pointed so close to my throat.

False charisma, show me how to not get my jugular cut open like a cake. “I… Am Ryan Steele, older brother of three. Spike, Twilight Sparkle, and Shining Armor, an avid gamer of my time unprecedented by any. Always chasing after my next goal to pick up and have fun with!”

Vanishing’s ears furiously flicker back and forth, the dagger that was previously in the air is now against my throat. “Don’t fuck with me.”

She truly does want something with a little more substance; okay I can come up with something if I-

“Vanishing, that’s enough!” Both Vanishing, William, and I all turn to the unexpected voice. Marax apparently recovered way faster than anyone was expecting. “I wanted to kick this guy’s ass more than anything, more so than a bully inside a think tank full of scientists. What we’re not going to do is threaten this kid’s life though.” He got up shortly afterwards, rapidly blinking over and over again.

“Again, I’m twenty eight, counting the years I’ve spent here. I’m pretty old.” Marax has got me repeating that more than Holden does in The Catcher in the Rye. If you don’t know what that is then read it. A classic piece of literature.

“Y-you should not be up Marax, I swear I saw bruising on your chest.” William’s shock has yet to wear off as he reaches out for his friend.

Marax shook his head. This is one tough motherfucker in front of my face, they weren’t kidding when they claimed he was holding back. “I wasn’t that hurt, I didn’t even get knocked out. You probably were mistaking my skin color for bruising instead of a basic lump. Ryan only managed to hit my chest which knocked the wind out of me. Luckily I decided to keep my leather padding underneath my chest before I was about to go to sleep otherwise I wouldn’t only be left with lightheadedness.”

I could see the grip Vanishing had on her dagger begin to loosen but she still held onto it. “But you see what he did to you though. It was a simple sparring match and he attacked you like this would be his last!”

“Hey if it’s all the same to you guys I’m gonna need this dagger off of my throat so I’ll just…” I gently back away from Vanishing’s range who made no attempts to stop me.

Marax coughed and pointed at me. “Stop right there, you’re not off the hook.”

I put my hands up defensively. “Aye I wasn’t going anywhere. I just wanted to back away from craziness over here.” Vanishing Flow didn’t like how I worded myself. She even emitted a small groan of anger.

A myriad of angry staring and glaring comes my way “Hm… Fine, I don’t ever like ending things on a bad note unless I’m pranking someone. Instead, I’ll let y’all ask me one question that you want and I’ll answer the best I can.”

They all huddled up around each other, instantly like it was game time or something like that. They were all whispering but not loud enough for me to hear what until they all unanimously nodded their heads.

William steps forward and glances back at his mates. Oh they’re gonna ask for something wild, I can already tell. “We want to know why you haven’t used magic.”

And I already got sent a heavy hitter. Just when I was starting to get comfortable. “Sigh, alright what I’m about to say is going to sound extremely wild so don’t do anything too rash.” I search my brain for any plausible explanation on why a Castellan can’t use The Song properly, even then I don’t know what they discussed in that little huddle up of theirs. “Amassed Mutation, that’s pretty close to how I can describe it.”

“Amassed… What now?” Marax asked with a hoarse voice.

Vanishing grips her face with disbelief. “See, I told you he’d feed us some bullshit!”

“No, no, it’s a made up term that I’ve used for it. Think of my situation as a birth defect that has a give and take. I actually am a Castellan however I was born with zero magic, zilch, none, notta, nothing, whatever way you wanna say it. The only thing I can do is that little displacement trick with swords and other objects. And the give for this freak happenstance? I put all my time and effort into physical talents like a real one. My parents never really bothered with me after they figured this out though.”

I put my hands in my pockets, feigning annoyance for these fake parents I’m making up. It pays to put a ton of points into Charisma rather than something like Willpower. “Mhm, said something about how they ‘couldn’t do anything for me.’ The nerve of some parents, am I right? Instead, they shoved knowledge on magic so I could still defend myself against Mages. I couldn’t take it so I just left. I still hang out with my siblings though.”

“Is that satisfactory for you all?” I give them a sly wink, making them unsure whether or not they should trust me.

The half Tiran and half Pegasus uncrosses her arms much to my relief, her glare even softens on me which I wasn’t expecting from her. Is there something wrong with her? Marax’s green eyes had a spark of reverence in ‘em. See and I thought I was an ornery person. Marax is putting on a mature act, yet I ain’t so sure about whether or not it’s legit.

“We should all head back inside. This is a lot to take in all at once.” William directed the group back down the trail to their guild base which was fine by me.

“And after that, the Etrean noble was practically begging Celestia for some of the funds in the royal treasury, I had said. ‘You want funds from the treasury? I want to summon whoever did your mane and get them in jail for that horrendous job!’ because I was tired of hearing them whine all day.” And as that sentence left my mouth I laughed along with Marax and Vanishing. I guess William isn’t a fan of real humor.

I think about how stuff had been when we all entered the guild base. They all started doing their own thing which was peaceful at first. Silence can be deafening though and this time was no different. After nearly two hours I went up to Vanishing, pulled out a chair, and started telling her some half-truths about my life. Of course I replaced real life humans with other races and changed the scenarios a bit so they’d match but it was still fun. After a bit of laughter here and there we both eventually attracted William and Marax over as well who pulled up some chairs, also started sharing some of their stories. This has been going on for hours on end now.

“You didn’t say that to him. Nobody could ever say that to a noble and not have any repercussions afterwards.” Marax claims in disbelief.

William vigorously nods his head, like he couldn’t comprehend what I just said. “I must concur. Such a story does not exactly elicit any inkling of being factual.”

They’re doubting me? Oh ho ho, I’m not the one to doubt, I’m the one to believe. “I could get Celestial herself to prove that it happened.”

Everyone pauses. William slowly raised an eyebrow. “Ryan, we have already forgiven you for today’s previous events. There is no need to further fabricate a tale in order to pretend to have something in your power when you do not.”

“What, you don’t believe me?” I asked in a hurt tone. I thought we were friends now.

“No.” Vanishing cracked her knuckles and looked around. She had been cracking them every hour or so which I find a little off but I used to do some weird things too.

I took a quick second to open up my menu to check the time. Noticing that, yes the majority of my stats are still glitched out.

(Player: Ryan Steele)

Power: E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Born: E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Race:E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Age:E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Time: 6:21 AM

Strength:I̙̱̭͂̎̓ṋ̍ţ̛̝̥́͠e̛̜̦͓̞͒̕͠r̦͂f̯̖̖̮̟̉̓̔̔͡e̖̮̣͊͑͟͡͝ṟ̨̻̜̬́̌́́̚e̠̲̬̎̀͞n̨̬̞̋̂͆c̠͙͐͝è͖
Fortitude: I̟̰̪͗̋̄̕͜r̡̬͒́r͖͔͂͂ȩ̤͎̎͌͂̿ͅĺ̡̧̰̲͚͑̋̾̍ȅ̩̭͈͂̅v̹̾á̯͍̖̇͗ṅ̜̜̆ṯ̏
Agility: N̞̝̜̯̒͛̄̈́ọ̯̌̃t̨̛̛̤ ̜̚f̡̱̠͆͘͞ȁ̘̱̀st ̡̠̽̋͐ͅȇ͖̲̀n͉̳͚̭̣̉̐̂̌̆o͕̯͗͒ǘ͖̲̖̪̌́͝g͚̝̥̹̀̌̔͒h̡̳̜͖̀̓̓̄
Intelligence: M͕̘͙̮͑̒͘̕ạ̢̚͞n̤͆ŭ̗ḟ̹̼̣͇̞̎͂̅̾a̻͐c̩͍̀͛t̖̝̔̂ư̙̜̝̂̕ṙ͕̱̕͟͠ȅ̳͕̞͓͌̋͂d̮̹͛̉ ̨̹̄̄
Willpower: H͈̠͆̽o̧̱̦̿̔͞ŕ̻ȑ͇̖̬̗̓̂̾î̯̦̠͆̓̃ͅf̛͇̥̑i̺̠̝̿̏́ed̨̪̩̀̀͊
Charisma: N̩͕̬͋̍͠ò̤̳̄t̛͈̲̝̃͑̅͟h̡̨̛̤͖̃̊͘i͐͟ǹ̖͕͔͗̆́͟g̙̯̭͂͗͝ǹ̦̦̼͔͂̂́͢͠ě̞͚̱̀͞ss̘͕̩̅̋͝
Attunement(s):I̫̱͛̑ņ̟̹̗͐̋͒͘co̢̹̹̥̍̎́͞m̡̛̺̭̈́͂̐͜p̋ͅa̯̠͓̼͗̏̓̈͟͠ẗ̨͎̪͗̿ȋ̺̞͗ḃ̗̘̕l̦̆ḛ̦͕̯̗̄̈́̓̂͘ ̺̦͖͗̓͠

Investment Points: N̛̮̘̩͒̚u̻̣̰͉̪̿̔̈̈́̄ĺ̰̙̳̍́̐̕͟͟l̜̑

Heavy Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜
Medium Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜
Light Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜

“This is actually beginning to get concerning, maybe I should- Oh shit, isn’t the Summer Sun Celebration about to take place?” My thoughts are thrown at the window as I see how close it is to dawn. Too much time passed and yet none of us realized. I can chalk it up to my charm in keeping conversations going.
I start snickering uncontrollably, causing some concern from everyone around me.

“What’s so funny?” Vanishing Flow bemusedly questioned.

I wiped away some tears that were forming in my eyes in response. “Nothing, nothing, you guys are gonna be looking like a bunch of dumbasses and I found it hilarious.”

Marax leans in, mockingly acting offended. Marax leans in, holding a playful look of irritation. “Who are you calling a dumbass? What are you even going on about in that messed up brain of yours?” William sorta made silent eye contact as if saying ‘please do not say anything stupid.’ For that I’m offended because I only say things with the utmost intelligence!

I get up from the chair I was sitting in and take a step back while committing to a dramatic pose. “I’m the son of Celestia! There I said it, I’m her illegitimate child that she had and heir to the throne. Get down and bow to your newest prince and a sexy one I might add.”

William visibly face palmed as Marax laughed his ass off, rude.

I got a weirded out stare from Vanishing Flow who shook her head disappointedly. “That has got to be the worst lie someone has ever told me in history.”

I shrugged my shoulders as Marax continued giggling. “You’re partially right, I wanted a rise out of you all and I got exactly that. Enough messing around though. Because I have something that’ll prove my earlier statement. Right now it’s 6:21 AM, about to hit eight. And wouldn’t you know it, Princess Celestia is making an appearance right here in Ponyville. So get this, we go attend it, enjoy ourselves a bit, I introduce you all to my siblings, and then I’ll go to Celestia and ask her to confirm what I said.”

Marax finally stops laughing and finally calms himself down before saying. “Okay you’ve been saying that for a while. And while we were originally planning to miss the Summer Sun Festival we’ll go solely to prove you wrong.” He rolls his eyes and gets out of his wooden chair.

I grin from ear to ear “Bingo, that’s exactly what I needed to hear.”

I pump a fist in the air. “Bet! Let’s effin’ do it then.” Ah it’s been way too long since I’ve gotten to prove any new people around me wrong.

“There goes my plans to practice for the big wars coming up.” Vanishing Flow sighed as she got up and walked out through the door as William patted Vanishing’s shoulder and walked out along with her, the two of us following suit.

The entire time we left the guild base we were chatting about nothing. Just random stuff in the past and favorite things to do, the usual.

“After that I decided I would never do another suspicious request in Griffon territory.” After Vanishing had wrapped up her story. Which was wild as fuck by the way. She got set up as an easy mark when she was on a vacation. Luckily she didn’t get any scars or nothing since she only got ruffed up a bit but damn.

“Why did you even think that going anywhere near Griffonstone would do you any good? Let alone thinking about going to Solidarity for an out of town request?” From what I’ve read that place is almost completely filled with widowed Griffons and other people who’ll bag you for even being there.

The half-Tiran half-Pegasus sighed and stared at the starry sky. “I wasn’t too keen on thinking with my head back then. I saw bits and thought I had to go for it. It’s never happening to me again though.”

Their leader shook his head. “That is why we desired to come with you. Somehow you convinced us to do otherwise which is what led to the problem in the first place.” William shamefully admitted.

Vanishing Flow yawned and simultaneously sighed “I apologized afterwards. No need to continue bashing me, you forget that I was new to being a guild member back then.”

“And I’ll endlessly tease you for it. Forever and always Vanishing.” Marax poetically did that sentence justice.

And speaking of doing justice. “What were you talking about when you said that you were practicing for the upcoming wars? Is there some type of secretive underground battle going on?” What she said prior had peaked my interest so I asked.

Marax stares at me like he found out I never passed high school (I barely did). “You don’t know? Guild wars and Conquest are starting in the next few months. We’ll be competing to reign in as Ponyville’s best guild.”

“I ain’t never heard of guild wars.” Why hasn’t Celestia ever told me about this? Or even my little sis. I’d expect her of all people to know about this.

I tilted my head to the side. “Okay, I’ll bite. What even is that?”

William turned around and started walking backwards. “It is only the best possible way to have your guild name become known to an amassed audience.”

We finally made our way to the town hall where we saw some folks hanging around inside until went in. Actually it was almost all ponies though, Pegasi, Earth ponies, a few unicorns, actually that’s all there was. Except for two Felinors that seemed like a couple who were holding hands.

“This is going to look stupid since we’re not ponies who praise some benevolent sun goddess.” Vanishing huffed.

Celestia’s a little mean, I’d know, I’ve been living in her castle for eight years straight. Though I’d never go as far as to be that sarcastic about her. In front of others.“Celestia isn’t even that bad, besides, she should be making an appearance in the next few minutes.”

I popped a wide grin. “If all these ponies are here then I bet that means Twi did a good job. She always manages to apply her big brain to these things. Wait, isn’t that her hanging out with five other ponies? Finally she made some friends-… Shit she’s bore her eyes into the depths of my soul.” I do my best to appear as scarce as possible to not draw any more attention to myself, although I already know I’m royally fucked.

And that grin just as quickly left after I heard somebody say my name. “Ryan… Steele, get your flank over here.” Speak of the devil and she shall cometh.

I carefully steered my head up, thankful the aforementioned head wasn’t lobbed to the ground already. Coming face to face with Twilight Sparkle, the currently furious sibling. And Spike was sheepishly standing beside her, mouthing ‘I’m sorry’ at me and my friends.

“Whatever god is out there. If I die, make sure to tell people my story.”

Chapter 4

Author's Note

This is going to be a chapter for the long haul so you might as well buckle up and save yourself a treat for this chapter, enjoy! :twilightsmile:

PS: expect a list of Ryan’s capabilities to be on display once he settles this glitch.

Chapter 4

Pov: Ryan Steele

I should be preparing for an earful right now. It felt like it was just a few hours ago when I met some wonderful people. And now that mood is killed, damn.

My new pals are stunned from Twilight’s aggression and even more so my silence from it all as I quietly made my way towards her.

I mindlessly picked at my ear using my pinky finger as I walked to give my casual greeting. “Hey Twi. Listen I was only-”

Twilight glares for me to shut my trap. “Not another peep. How could you leave without saying anything? It’s been nearly twelve hours!” Twilight pointed a finger at her younger brother. “Spike was nervous the entire time without you there with him!”

Spike crossed his arms and huffed. “She’s lying, I was completely fine the entire time without you. She made us search this entire town twice for you. I kept telling her that you were fine though.”

Twilight pinches the bridge between her nose. “Why are you defending him Spike?”

“Guy thing.” He shrugged, at least not everyone is against me.

“Jeez, did that Mare on the moon thing really get to her? All of those over paranoia. I should be a better older brother and cut her some slack.”

William had held some skepticism from my sibling's current overreaction, one that is very common may I remind myself. “So this is your sister I presume? Why is she yelling at you at such volume in public?”

Twilight raised an eyebrow. “And you all are?” She questioned, looking at my brand new friends.

“I’m Marax, he’s William, and she’s Vanishing. We were hanging out with Ryan. Who looks old enough to drink actually. So why don’t you get off their case.” Marax finished as he took a step forward.

I hold up a hand, I hate explaining a situation where someone’s defending me but I don’t like lying to people, intentionally or not. “Back up a moment. Twilight’s right I should’ve at least said something to her before dipping out. And sorry Spike for having to deal with Twi’s nagging. How’d it go anyways?”

Vanishing piped up right after I finished. Way too quickly actually, even an average trash talker would’ve been surprised.

“Where’s the princess at?” She interjected, which was the entire reason why we were out here in the first place.

Twilight rubbed the bottom of her chin with her fingers. “That is exactly what I was asking myself. Not to worry though, I have full faith that Princess Celestia should be arriving shortly. It’s uncharacteristic of her to be late.” That is the one good quality of Princess Celestia that I will admit, punctuality and being on time.

“Hey Spike, Twilight treated you fine without me there, right?” I inquired, I know how Twiggiles can get when I’m not around to keep her in check.

My little brother shrugged his shoulders. “It wasn’t anything out of the ordinary, nothing noteworthy neither.”

“So then regular freak outs, gotcha.” I slyly commented.

Twilight gave me a death glare, I didn’t bother whispering since Spike was standing right beside Twi anyways. “I do not freak out. I’m a fully grown mare and can take care of myself. Some of the things you do, however, worry me: like staying out in a town neither of us have been in for an equivalent of twelve hours.”

“Nuh-uh” I flicked my finger direction onto her muzzle; it only served to infuriate her further.

William Cobert was staring at our spectacle. “Do you two always argue like this? It seems too normal for my liking.”

I start snickering as I recall what I said earlier in Canterlot. “That’s exactly what I was talking to the little nerd about, ain’t that right Twiggiles?”

She doesn’t verbally respond but that’s fine with me. There’s a pregnant silence for a few moments.

Marax finally broke said silence with a question. “While we wait; what do the three of you actually do for a living?” One I had no problem answering.

Spike puts a claw inside his pocket. Funny thing is I used to call them hands because I couldn’t care any less about the difference. After a while though I noticed how much it’d bother him so now I call ‘em claws. “I’m Twilight’s number one assistant, I help her take notes, organize around the house, the usual.” Spike answered.

Twilight sheepishly smiled, losing her she-demon attitude in an instant. “I-it isn’t anything important. I’m Princess Celestia’s personal student and I learn from her. It’s actually why the three of us are here.” My little sister blushes while turning away for a moment.

“And most importantly I’m their guardian. I’m always behind them, I’ll always protect them. Especially here, in my heart.” I point at my chest with a smile, making Spike and Twilight blush, the latter even more. This is the only condition for me to stay at Canterlot and I’ll do it decently dammit.

“Wait, Canterlot, Camelot. There’s no way I’ve never realized that was a pun based on that kingdom.” That is so sad on so many levels. I’m left to dwell on those thoughts though as an amber furred lady walked up on stage with gray hair. She had a contrasting red bow tie, some reader’s glasses, and a black suit skirt and black suit to go with it which looked pretty neat.

“I’m really starting to notice the cultural difference between what the other races wear and what ponies wear because this is getting ridiculous.” If I hadn’t had to stand there to look pretty I think I might’ve slapped myself silly.

“Hello everypony out there. Thank you for coming down to this event and into our quaint little town.” Everytime I hear the words “everypony” or anything that excludes other races it always makes me wanna blow my damn brains out. Ignorance at its finest, thought I left that behind in my old world but it followed me like shit on stink lemme tell ya!

The hag up stage continued, much to my displeasure. “We are here to congratulate our very own princess in her endeavors as the Summer Solstice has finally arrived! Please give a round of applause for Princess Celestia, our sturdy and benevolent ruler.” Okay I’ve met Princess Celestia, you don’t have to jam her entire hoof down your throat because she ain’t all that.

I peeked over at William and the others. Which gives me the imagery that they all seemed to have been sucking on lemons because of how sour their expressions were.

“Jeez, how'd Princess Celestia hurt them so badly to the point where they act so aggressive at the mention of one of her celebrations… Did I really just ask that? Personally they may not have but Princess Celestia's actions against nobles could lead some to believe she does nothing about them which isn't too far off the case.” The mare on the stage pulled back the curtains when I was contemplating going on strike against Celestia. Which really surprised me, because unless Princess Celestia was feeling really quirky today then the person up stage who had a figure larger than the Alicorn is someone else.

Doing my best to not succumb to my manly urges of going further into detail of such assets I go further into analysis to study her behavior. The mystery mare's fur was completely and utterly pitch black say for a small twinge of blue on her shoulder that had a crescent moon mark. Must be her cutie mark. She's got battle ready armor on and a blue helmet too that had a hole for her mane to naturally flow through. Matter of fact her “mane” had the appearance of an unpolluted night sky. But there’s only one pony I know who has a flowing mane, Princess Celestia.

This is sketchy as hell. Who Actually, the lady’s got more height on Celestia by a couple of feet now that I’ve got a better look at her. The rest of her armor is in the same blue color of the helmet. A relatively large chest plate covers her breast. It may be because of the entire outer space theme but it’s shaped like an upside crescent that trails down to protect her abdomen too. Those leggings the mystery mare wears are reminiscent of sun butt’s, still, they’re gnarly in design and look way cooler. Same thing for those arm greaves she wears.

She flares out those long wings of hers to both of her sides as she maniacally laughs- wait did thunder strike as soon as she did that? Whatever the intended effect was, it doesn't matter since it causes mass panic amongst the pony viewers who were at the stage.

Forget it, enough admiration of that mishap. I’m hungry to prove some people wrong and I won’t let some knock-off steal that from me.

“Oi! Giant lady, what happened to Princess Celestia?!” I half blurt and half shout. I meant to be direct, not that direct though. Guess I can gauge her personality this way as well.

William’s eyes widened as if I shot his puppy at point blank range. “Do you not know who that is? Mr. Steele! That is someone who is a part of an impeccable piece of Equestrian history. Even if you have read a single history book her description is akin to a trademark.”

The mare upstage claps her hands as her hooves clop with each step until the moon lady is now standing at the edge of the apron. “Tis nice to know that we are not forgotten in Equestria’s history by someponies.”

My little sister’s nerves start locking and seizing her to become as stiff as steel. “So then that must mean she really is…”

“Nightmare Moon!” The two of them yell at the same time. Speaking of the number two, that’s two for two with the amount of cartoon clichés that happened. This will be a headache in a half to deal with. On one hand I really want to just run and sprint away with my siblings to hall ass out but on the other hand I’m so morbidly curious. Guess I can hold off on that decision when I see how bad this gets.

“And I’ll never hear the end of this from Twilight, the one time I’m wrong. This is the moon with a mare.”

Ignoring how on the nose that name was. I think the actual police are gonna do something, there’s two pegasi dressed in the Solar Guard’s uniform that I’ve seen so often charge at Nightmare Moon who acts as if they aren’t there. "Now that thoust all realize who is in front of thou. Tis thy best course of action to pledge thy’s life to us- hold for but a moment.”

Nightmare Moon pauses and points at the incoming guards and three shadow balls of mass soar from the ceiling and strike them down, creating craters where they lay and continued as if nothing happened, sick. “As our plan is to subjugate the Joint Lands into a permanent night. An oath would be the easiest way to have thy’s life spared.”

This living Nightmare’s presence is a brick of force coming down on me. My legs ever so slightly shake in fear. Marax isn’t faring much better than me, that look in his eyes is a lot more determined than mine though.

I do my best to keep my composure and walk towards the two guards who got absolutely smacked. Not by choice, no, no, no, the reason is that I physically feel like I can’t go any faster and check their pulse. Still pulsating, great, I fucking hate pulses. I’ve got an aversion to them or something and I don’t know why.

Is it weird I’m thankful that her presence is shutting everyone up? Probably, it makes it easier for me to shout in cases like this. “Someone who’s a medical expert, get your ass over here to treat these two!” A snow white mare slightly jumped in place. She was wearing a button-up blue shirt with jeans on, clearly wasn’t expecting for anything of this manner to go down this new-dawn. I sure as fuck didn’t, wish I could have clairvoyance for cases like this. She rushes over, nearly tripping over her hooves twice until she crouches down on the ground next to me.

The pony inspects their bodies, her fingers trace over the unconscious bodies with trained professionalism throughout repeated action. She sighs out of relief, holding a hand over her chest. “T-thank you, I can take it from here if you help me get them to a safer place. And my name is Redheart.”

I consider her point for a bit, I can’t help but look around. Something tells me that I can’t, that small voice gets louder every time I look at my little brother and sister. “No can do, I’ve got a different number one priority. Look on the bright side though, you’re already here. Best I can do is stay right here.”

She huffs and narrows her eyes. “Are you completely- you know what, that’s fine. They’re most likely only suffering from a concussion at best, at worst however-”

“I promise you we’ll get them to the nearest hospital possible. Right now we need to wait though, that chick on stage is more unpredictable than a toddler with a shotgun.” The unnamed earth pony mare had something on her face that said ‘what the fuck are you talking about?’ Which is my reaction when I heard most of my friends speak. She did her best to think though until she ended up nodding her head, choosing to tend to the two fallen guards.

A loud, admittedly over the top, snarl comes out from Nightmare Moon’s muzzle. “Thou dares to interrupt thine’s princess? We swear, the youth have no respect for thy’s elder.”

One of those ponies Twilight was hanging out with earlier rises up from the ground, using her wings to propel herself upwards. She looks like a pegasus wearing black sport shorts, heh, sport shorts, funny thing to say. The rainbow headed mare had a matching black tank top on. “What the buck did you do to the Princess? Maybe if you answered that then that’d stop me from kicking your flank seven ways to sunday!”

“Our dear little pony did thou not hear what we had to say?” Nightmare Moon rhetorically said until she cackled. “No matter, thou will all learn to love us soon enough, we have much to do without pesky distraction.” She somehow turned into pure mist. Yes you heard me, turn into a blue starry mist and fly right past everyone, thankfully me and the

I think I heard somebody make an exaggerated gasp, a loud thump following soon afterwards. Drama queens nowadays, reminds me of those concerts people would go to just to faint when the artist would even breathe a certain way.

Vanishing Flow loudly echoed her voice throughout the building of still frightened ponies (and two Felinors) into a highly demanding tone. Not as good as William’s real effin brass, I can still dig it though. “Alright everybody, exit the town hall in an orderly fashion. Be sure not to trip or stumble over others as you leave and B-line for your homes and lock up for the night."I swear, crazy shit like this could only happen here." For unspecified reasons I was able to listen in on that last part underneath her breath.

“Not this time Vanishing. I know we don’t talk much, however, this is something much more at stake. We need all hands on deck.” Wasn’t that Applejack? I swear that was her.

Marax started using a commanding tone to subjugate everyone who had yet to leave. Which to nobody’s surprise was all ponies, I swear its ponies, ponies everywhere. “And we’re saying as first responders that you all need to back out. Somebody should probably get a bigger force on the line if things go awry. Ryan, you’re with us.”

I throw a fist in the air. All my dreams are becoming a reality, to finally become a part of some grand adventure. “Bet! You can always count on me to swoop in, kickass, and chew gum. And luckily I still haven’t had gum here yet.”

Twiggles decided to present her very own articulate counter argument. “If Ryan is coming then I’m going too. Spike you need to stay behind though. Hold down the library and don’t answer the door for anypony.”

Spike huffs, he and I both knew he wasn’t coming along. “Good, I don’t want to get into whatever you’re gonna get into. Bro, make sure you protect Twilight.”

I do a two fingered salute. “You can count on me bro, I’m gonna watch over her like a helicopter parent.”

The only mare I was familiar with had actually spoken up from the relatively now smaller group. “If Twilight’s going then it wouldn’t be right of me to leave her. Those riddles that creepy mare was saying didn’t sit right with me.” Applejack punctuated by cracking her knuckles. At least someone knows how to act tough.

A blue hand lands on Applejack’s shoulder. “And where we come from, we don’t let other ponies go through trouble by themselves, it’s either all or nothing!” Applejack turned around to meet the mare who was behind her. They must’ve known each other since she didn’t flip her shit. She’s fairly athletic looking. As long as my eyes aren’t deceiving me under this lighting. The mare was wearing a black athletic crop top, fingerless gloves, and some black jogging shorts. The weather is actually that cold out. I’m warm all the time but ponies have fur coats which make me think it’s relatively the same either way.

“Uh, do you guys mind catching me up on who you all are? Especially you in the back. A breeze appears to be enough to blow your puny as- I mean your puny self away.” I gotta be gentle with gentle souls, so no unnecessary swearing, for now that is.

Applejack puts a hand to her hip. “You don’t know? That there is Fluttershy, she’s a real kind pony who’s Ponyville’s favorite. I thought you and Twilight went around to visit everypony who was helping prepare for the big ole event.”

“I knew it’d be a bad idea to ditch Twi so early on, uh, quick cue up nervous whistling!” I do my best to whistle as best as I can.

I never learnt how to whistle.

Instead a large sputter escapes from my mouth as a red tint of embarrassment imprints on my face.

A white unicorn wearing a beige skirt and black sweater. A real simple choice of clothes if I’m being honest, walks over and holds a hand up to her chin. “Come to think of it darling, I do not recall ever seeing your face. Especially one with such a personality.” The unicorn walks over and holds a hand up to her chin.

Twilight snorts as she rolls her eyes. “That’s because he ditched-” And now I have to subvert that topic with humor, great now I'll be seen as a fool who knows no better.

“Wait that’s not important right now! There’s two unconscious guards and a weird, debatably a danger to society, all black sorceress who’s planning to probably boil kids into pots. There’s bigger things at play right now. So lets meet back up later, good?! Okay good, toodles!” I bolt to the two guard ponies to avoid further questioning. Redheart gasps as I lift them up with one arm each. On a basic fundamental level, snatching them from her.

“To the nearest hospital, post haste!” I charge through the door leaving a bunch of confused people in my wake as the nurse known as Redheart struggles to catch up with me.

Nice to know that Ponyville’s one and only hospital isn’t in terrible condition. By terrible I mean 1600s level of technology. This is actually early 2000s technology which I can only thank the Summer Company for. If movies didn’t exist in this world then I may have cried when I first arrived here.

Redheart wasn’t very nice to me after I left the two guards there at first. They only suffered from mild concussions thanks to the armor they were wearing. I stood my ground on the matter that family comes before everything, everything.

“I hope to see you again at some point. Maybe under more normal circumstances when we’re not carrying in injured ponies.” Redhear- I’m sorry I mean Nurse Redheart was in the process of walking me out since she got quickly changed into a medical practitioner’s uniform. Despite being called a nurse she’s actually a doctor.

I rubbed the back of my head. “The morning is still very much young. I wouldn’t count out a few more hospitalizations happening. Stand by beautiful, because I just might injure myself to see that face of yours.” Nurse Redheart was confused by my sudden compliment as I put my hands into my pockets. That flirt was completely left field, which is how you leave a good impression on someone. I started walking out of the hospital’s main set of doors, confidence in each of my steps. Now I really do wish I was going to be staying in Ponyville, alas it is not meant to be.

The crisp and solid air of the early morning tickles my face. “Maybe I could go get a sandwich after this? Does this town even have a deli place? It better or I swear I’m gonna let that Nightmare Moon person kill everyone here- oh yeah, Nightmare Moon.”

I sigh and roll my neck, getting ready to dash off. “Wait, I don’t even know where the fuck she’s at. Actually, I don’t even know where I’m supposed to meet up with everyone, fuuuuuu-” I pause for a second, seeing three familiar faces who were all waiting for me outside.”

William Cobert shook his head and sighed. “We assumed that from the beginning. Regardless, I assumed it would take less time for you to have exited Ponyville’s Health Center.”

I was about to reply using a quip as I always do but I’ve gotta stay focused. “That doesn’t matter right now, where’s Twilight at?”

He sighs and shakes his head. “Does not matter? This might be another Great Celtor’s Drowning situation on a world wide scale. Or at least that’s what legends that were passed down. Of course this ultimately matters!” Celtor’s drowning? I actually can’t remember anything about that place.

“She’s waiting for us near the Everfree open typed-dungeon.” Vanishing responded as she twirls a dagger in her hand that wasn’t there before.

Right before my attention deficient ass questioned how she did that I managed to keep focusing. “Alright lead the way- aw shit, hold on do any of you know any light spells?” I just noticed I’m the only one not wearing any actual armor which would be really helpful with some level 99 dark souls boss.

Marax nods his head. “If you’re afraid of the dark kiddo then that’s fine, yeah I know (Velo), that’s adventuring light sources 101 right there. Don’t you know it- oh yeah, the no magic thing sorry about that. What could you possibly need it for at a time like this?” A sense of urgency laps into his voice.

I hate it when people ask questions like this. My brows crinkle in annoyance. “I know I joke around a lot but I need you to cast it right now on the ground. Don’t worry about the why, just do it!”

“You’re being serious? This feels like a first, alright give me a second.” Marax brings a finger up to the point in front of him until he channels a small blue orb of light in front of himself. “I only know the (Velo) spell so this is the best you’re going to get.”

No longer needing to panic, I instantly sat down at the light source. And as I do, armor clamps around my body, replacing my previous clothing and switching it out for my Rogue’s outfit armor. A metallic shoulder guard covers my right shoulder guard, a crimson shirt envelopes my torso with belt straps wrapping around it, a sizable metal plate protrudes on my chest, traveling boots, and two gloves which didn’t cover my palms.

I leap up from the ground and simultaneously draw a bronze sword from my back, striking a pose in the process. “I’m good to go! Are we gonna get shit going now or are you all gonna keep looking at me funny?” The trio in front of me had their jaws drop, unmoving and almost unbreathing.

“Aw if you guys are gonna be like that then I’ll do this myself.” I playfully suggested, swinging the bronze sword to my side.

William’s jaw shuts as he takes a deep breath. “OH C’MON! NO MAGIC MY ASS, THAT TIME I GOT TO SEE IT!” Someone’s piss- did he just use a contraption? I swear he wasn’t doing that before, and now he’s walking towards me in a very threatening manner. Yeah he’s gonna try and fight me.

Both of my arms move to the side as I put on a shit eating grin. “Oh, you’re approaching me? Rather than running away you’re coming straight towards me?” And that definitely made him angrier. I need to stop being such a self-contradicting asshat, the reactions are what I live for though.

“Now’s not the time William, we’ve got to take care of business. People are counting on us for once.” Vanishing points out as Marax snickers in the background.

William takes a much needed breath of air as he finally cools his top. “You are right, Vanishing. And Marax quit laughing. I’ll take point, Vanishing you’re our rear and Ryan you get our sides.”

Damn, he took command really early on. I can see how he’s the leader of the group. I can easily see when talent like that is in front of me.

The starry skies glint and shine into my eyes. Now we can do this thing for real and I’m excited as I don’t know what. “You’ve got it boss. I’ll show you all how I’m not dead weight.” We all get into position. Marching through the empty town we all share a single goal. To take down some crazy woman who’s dead set on being evil.

We all reached the edge of the forest fairly quickly with zero troubles. I snuck a couple of glances in the forest and the atmosphere was completely different than what I was expecting. Everything was crooked, drained of hope, almost life-like though which should contradict the two other descriptions I gave yet I have a sneaking suspicion on why it’s like this.

Despite living in this new world for so long I can’t name any of these plants here. I was always more of a PvP player so I have no clue what any of the plants here are. Curly green ones that appear to be more vine-like than plants and others that showcased themselves like zig-zagged infused bushes. All of it is unnatural. And furthermore there was no sign of Twilight or her friends. So we moved further and further up.

“Fuck, I told that kid to wait here. I’d bet twelve bits that Rainbow Dash coaxed her into doing otherwise even though we’ve been walking for at least seventeen minutes now.”

“Why the specific number Marax?” William questioned as we all moved forward.

Marax shrugged as he held his spear forward. “Because that’s the amount of bits I have in my pocket right now.”

Vanishing moved past the low hanging greenery that threatened to slap her in the face. “We better find them soon. I hope to Gaia they didn’t bring Rarity’s pansy ass along, she’d faint at the sight of a dead spider. Or even worse, they could’ve brought Fluttershy. After the mimic animal incident

A small shiver rolls down my spine. Ooooh I hate spiders. When I was younger I had no problem with them, then my mom’s fear of them instilled into me. I swear if I see one giant spider I’m gonna flip my shit. “Ryan, you’ve got faith in your sister to lead, right? I don’t want to keep up a hike only to find that they went off the trail towards the Sister’s Betrayal dungeon.”

I stop moving for a second. “Wait, the what dungeon?” Vanishing scoffed as soon as I said that.

Marax bumps my shoulder, he’s the only other one that took to guarding the side, which is on the west. “She’s talking about the open-type dungeon. The one that people haven’t been able to fully clear yet because of the complexity that lives on inside it. Are you telling us you don’t do your research on places you go to?” I sheepishly smile, temporarily taking my hand and scratching my head. Something brushes against my arm as I do.

“Sorry but I leave that to my egghead of a sister. Twi’s always got a head buried deep into a book. Also can any of you check my back? It feels like there’s something huge stuck on it.” I calmly requested. No need to make a big scene about something that’s probably not there.

William stops in his tracks, being the only person to not have a weapon. He turns around and sighs. “Alright, Marax, you can guard the front while Vanishing Flow covers our backs. Ryan, turn around and show me your back. There’s a small chance there’s a parasite trying to bury through your armor.” My eyes bulge as soon as he says that.

“Please no fucking spiders.” I silently pray inside my head. I think my body is even shaking now, man I knew I should’ve invested more points into my willpower stat.

I hear a few ‘hmmms’ and grunts from William as he attempts to pull on my shirt, feeling only a bit of tension.

“Okay, do not panic, however a Deep Willow offspring is on your back. It’s generally a harmless arachnid despite their size at such a young age. Thankfully it has yet to move or take any actions against your person. I think everything should be fine if-”

I scream my head off and gripping my back to pull it off. And this is one hairy motherfucker on me. “FUCK NO, GET THIS SHIT OFF ME!” Why me? What did I do to deserve this? Did I jinx this shit or something?!

Vanishing snickers in the background, hey screw you too girl. Watch me flail about as if I’m an overgrown baby. “Or he could do that instead. Are we going to stop him?” The half-pegasus smugly asked. Yeah I’m definitely getting you back for this.

The Dinkerai of the group narrows his eyes at his companion. “Vanishing! If he attracts unwanted attention then this entire thing might be over. We need to get to a river or take off his gear- did he just leave?” Everyone turned to see that there was indeed a cloud shaped-me in the space I was occupying. That’s due to the fact I heard “river” and bolted for the nearest one I could hear.

By pure instinct I activated (Agility), my feet moving faster than I ever would’ve needed them to, were it any other situation. There’s a small tap on my back, a particularly hard yet still light tap.

“Did it just move…” As that thought resonates throughout my entire body I blink, hard. There’s an entire waterfall in front of me, in fact there’s also a broken bridge, a Twilight Sparkle, a yellow pegasus, and a group of ponies. All of them I’ve seen when Vanishing cleared out the Town hall. They were also completely on edge, the yellow pegasus in the back was cowering behind Twilight who had her horn blaring, intoxicated with magic, the same as the other unicorn who tagged along.

And the she-demon is here too. I should’ve known. Judging the way she’s staring at me I think she might attempt to take one of my organs. Definitely need to stay alert around her. The only relatively normal pony I know is Applejack and that was from seeing her interact with Twi. She was in a brawler’s combat stance and then dropped it, which reminds me of the lesson the holy oppressor taught me, that I should never fight an Earth pony in fist fights. At times like these I wish I could do things like observe others stats and names because I don’t know any of these people.

The entire scene calmed me down enough to remember that I have a damn sword, I’m gonna cut the bastard off of me. “If you all would give me a minute.” I turn around and attempt to plunge the weapon vertically through the spider.

“Wait! Please!” As the voice calls out I stop, probably inches away from the spider’s face. I move my head to face the direction where the voice came from. The yellow Pegasus from earlier was reaching out her hands towards my back as she came forward.

“Please, there’s no need to hurt an innocent little baby. Let me get them down for you.” I cannot believe my eyes right now. This girl is coaxing a fourteen inch, deep black, naturally armored plated body and abdomen, eight red eyed freak of nature, and spiked tips at the legs, honest to god spider. Successfully no less while cradling it too. If these are the friends my sister is going to be making then I’m afraid there’s no hope for her.

Twilight squints her eyes on me as if she’s thinking about something. “Hold on, Fluttershy how could you see a Deep Willow spawn on him through this thick fog?” Wait there’s been fog through this entire thing and I couldn’t see it? I didn’t know Castellans could see through fog but that’s pretty cool. Yeah that settles it. This is definitely a horror movie getup, we should GTFO and get a proper police force. Right, the only other guild hasn’t even responded. Maybe they’re on break or something during a potentially national problem. We’re in over our heads.

I’m not sure if I should be thankful or mortified. “Thank you, I think?”

The spider in the yellow pony’s arms starts to violently cough, hacking up spittle and other liquids that I’m not going to describe because I turned away. That is until the forest creature stopped.

When I turned back around I saw the spider holding a pure white ring decorated with a pair of wings. “Dear me, what were you doing to swallow a ring like this? It’s a miracle you didn’t choke on it.” The spider holder rubbed their new pets head fueled by concern. And said spider was holding out one of its long creepy legs towards me, the same one with the ring on it.

“Ryan I think the spider is trying to give you the peace offering, just look at how cute it is. You can’t possibly say no to that!” Said the great pink one, both of her hands held onto her face as if it actually were adorable in any way.

“H-h-hell no! It better get that shit out of my face.” I’m internally gagging from those dark red beady eyes it has. As if my situation couldn’t get any worse, it used both of its front legs to climb onto my che- I think I’m gonna blow myself up at this point. My body is completely frozen up. The Deep Willow spawn puts the ring directly onto my hand and quickly retreats back into its caretaker’s arms.

‘Alert! New accessory has been added to the inventory, designated “Konga Clutch Ring” from an outside source.’

“I’m going to need to bathe in holy water after this.” I make that quick little mental note until I do my best to retain what little dignity I have left. I pocket the ring for later in case I need something to remember this dementied place.

“I don’t believe I’ve formally introduced myself to you ladies. I am Ryan Steele, the coolest sibling of Twiggle Spiggle-” The pink one snickered after I said that. At least one of them has a sense of humor, even if they’re crazy. “And currently lost from the No Regrets guild. That being said I must ask, why are we waiting here?”

The girl who looks to be older than Twilight is the first to go. “It’s nice to meet you, Mister Steele. My name is Fluttershy, I take care of hurt animals and act as a veterinarian for wildlife and pets alike. We’re waiting for Rainbow Dash to tie the bridge back over here to get to the abandoned castle.”

“I never did like being called Mister, just call me Ryan or Steele. I couldn’t give two fuuuu- I mean two cares. You have my gratitude for filling me in Fluttershy.” Nice save me! I need to commit to being as cautious as can be.

Applejack mildly smirked as she tilted her stetson in my direction. “Howdy there partner. I remember seeing you with Twilight over here, and then you disappeared outta nowhere! I thought I was going crazy for a minute. I’m Applejack and help run my family farm in Sweet Apple Acres.”

“Nope! Because I remember seeing him earlier when my Pinkie sense was going haywire to search for new ponies and then I ended up finding you. I could tell you would not do well with ponies you never knew before so then I was all like ‘maybe I should watch from afar then, I know he’d definitely appreciate that.’ Then I saw the face you were making and I knew you wanted me to stop so I shuffled back and left!” I don’t think I’ve ever had my mouth gaped open this wide in my entire life. How could this… I can’t even begin to comprehend what the hell she just said to me.

I massage my temple. Maybe if I respond she’ll say something more sensible. “Uh-huh, and who in the four lands are you?”

“Right! I’m such a silly filly, I never even said my name. I’m Pinkie Pie, it’s really sweet to meet you Ryan. I’m Ponyville’s party planning extraordinaire! I specialize in all things that could make a pony smile. ” The eldritch beast I’ve now identified as Pinkie Pie said, a little too enthusiastically for my liking.

“Okay?” I need to stay away from her. “Is she always acting like this or did she get really far into that special sugar today?” That apparently wasn’t the correct thing to say in such a trying time. Applejack shakes her head at me as if I got caught with my pants down, Twilight is on the verge of ripping out her hair, Fluttershy is shuffling her way back while she pets that australian looking monstrosity that’s called a Deep Willow, Pinkie Pie was giggling to herself, probably thinking what I said was a joke, and the unicorn who had a blue aura glistening around her horn gasps.

Said white unicorn flicks her tail in my direction and huffs. “Why, I would never! That was extremely inappropriate and uncalled for to say such a thing. Especially when our dear friend hasn’t said anything like that to you.”

Who the hell is she again? Actually I don’t think she even introduced herself. “Aren’t you Rarity?” I take a shot in the dark based on the name that Vanishing Flow mentioned earlier.

“If you must know, yes I am Rarity, Rarity Belle. And since everypony else has given their occupation then I will as well, I’m the owner of Carousel Boutique, Ponyville’s number one fashionista. So far it hasn't been the most pleasurable experience to meet you Ryan Steele. Yet I must commend your bravery to come out here for ponies you do not even know.”

I shrug my shoulders, a small tingle runs down my entire back as I do. “Yeah well, the things we do for family. I’m sure you’d understand if you had a little sibling you needed to protect.” Maybe it’s the environment that’s throwing me off but something’s definitely happening, and I don’t mean the pink demon. Seriously I can’t hit home any harder how much that chick freaks me the fuck out.

Rarity held up a finger. “Actually I do. I’m currently taking care of her and keeping my dear Sweetie Belle at home for safety reasons.”

“If everyone could hold on for a moment.” I turn around and equip a dagger in my hand, activating (Dagger Throw) and tossing it through the tree line from above. Immediately a sixteen inch spider falls out of it, gurgling on some green liquid that melted the ground beside it. The spider turns up on its back and dies on the spot.

Fluttershy gasps and looks down at the still twitching nightmare fuel. “Oh no! Why was that Diamond Backed spider trying to spit acid at us? We aren’t inside any territories being so close to the bridge. And how is Rainbow Dash taking so long to get here?”

Someone behind me starts ‘whooping’ in the background and I can’t even turn around to accept the praise. The tingling sensation is only growing stronger inside my entire body. “Woah! Nice shot Ryan, you might wanna do it again because my Pinkie Sense is telling me that we’re gonna have a bunch of company here.” Pinkie declares, and it takes every fiber of my being to ignore the fact I heard something metal hit the forest’s floor.

I take a few steps closer to the trees in front of us. “She’s right, I still feel something is here. Everyone who can fight then get yourselves prepared, everyone who cannot? Get ready anyways.”

“Be careful Ryan, we don’t know if that was an animal attack or something to do with Nightmare Moon.” Twilight called out behind me. As soon as she does, a silver saber comes vertically, slicing through the air above me. Giving me nearly zero time to roll out of the way.

“What in the four lands?!” I shouted the first thing that came to mind as I tightly gripped onto my sword. This idiot’s get up was as sketchy as anything I’ve ever seen. A female Pegasus pony judging by the fact they’ve got a snout instead of a more human face. Also hooves, hooves on the floor are a dead giveaway. She’s wearing some type of goggles that reflect yellow light in the night. The jumpsuit she’s wearing has a blue torso with a yellow lightning pattern cutting it off from her wrists, ankles, and neck. That’s when the outfit stays to a pitch black.

“Is that a Shadowbolt? They’re supposed to be a disbanded group. How is there one right here no less?” My sister’s confusion is shared between the two of us because I didn’t even know who the heck this could’ve been.

I wave my sword at the mute jerk who almost took my face off. “Well don’t just come from the sky and try to lob my head off with a saber, say something dammit!” She only brandishes her sword in response, getting closer to me.

And in that short standstill I hear a cannon go off and something whizzed right behind me and impacting a large body that comes crashing down.

I quickly glance behind me to see someone lying on the floor, completely blasted in confetti and other decorations. They were yet another pegasus in the same suit!

“I’m getting real tired of seeing the color black in fantasy outfits.” I shake my head and activate (Agility). That hastening power flows through me again, my body no worser for wear. “Whoever did that for me then remind me to buy you a drink before I leave.”

“I’ll be sure to hold it to you then.” Dammit of course it was the party one- wait focus! What has that pony been doing Galebreathe? The pegasus is channeling green winds around their curved blade. A sharp breeze passes through my body when they dash forward, that same wind carrying their body towards me. I nearly fall on my back when I take a step to the side, thank goodness for the (Agility) skill.

“Should I try and use it? I hate how this makes me feel but I guess I’ve got no choice then. Just in character for me to go up against a speed blitzier and to have them use one of the fastest possible attunements.”

I directly punch my chest, a white ring surrounds it. My adrenaline levels skyrocket. This is my trump card, stacking (Agility) and (Adrenaline Surge). “You won’t talk? That’s fine then, I’ll just make you.” I half whispered. Running white mana through my legs I sprint full speed towards the Pegasus, reeling my sword to my side until the pommel is at the same area as my head and (Pommel Strike) the Pegasus in the muzzle before they could react, hearing a loud ‘crunch,’ instantly blurring their vision and knocking them to the ground.

“No blood on the ground? That’s strange, but all night has been strange.” I think to myself.

And although I did that, I got no grunt in reward. No sounds of pain or anything of the sort. I lean down and heave them up by the scruff of their neck and put them face to face with me. When I accomplish my goal however, they start fading away! No way I’m gonna let them escape.

Switching into my inventory I pull out a wooden sword and strike directly into the Pegasus’ back. The end result? It fades right through them in a wispy dark smoke until they vanish.

‘Alert! Player: (Ryan Steele) has recovered some player information after fulfilling a requirement!’

(Player: Ryan Steele)

Power: 13
Born: 11/21/03
Race: E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Age: 28
Time: 8:02 AM

Strength:I̙̱̭͂̎̓ṋ̍ţ̛̝̥́͠e̛̜̦͓̞͒̕͠r̦͂f̯̖̖̮̟̉̓̔̔͡e̖̮̣͊͑͟͡͝ṟ̨̻̜̬́̌́́̚e̠̲̬̎̀͞n̨̬̞̋̂͆c̠͙͐͝è͖
Fortitude: I̟̰̪͗̋̄̕͜r̡̬͒́r͖͔͂͂ȩ̤͎̎͌͂̿ͅĺ̡̧̰̲͚͑̋̾̍ȅ̩̭͈͂̅v̹̾á̯͍̖̇͗ṅ̜̜̆ṯ̏
Agility: N̞̝̜̯̒͛̄̈́ọ̯̌̃t̨̛̛̤ ̜̚f̡̱̠͆͘͞ȁ̘̱̀st ̡̠̽̋͐ͅȇ͖̲̀n͉̳͚̭̣̉̐̂̌̆o͕̯͗͒ǘ͖̲̖̪̌́͝g͚̝̥̹̀̌̔͒h̡̳̜͖̀̓̓̄
Intelligence: M͕̘͙̮͑̒͘̕ạ̢̚͞n̤͆ŭ̗ḟ̹̼̣͇̞̎͂̅̾a̻͐c̩͍̀͛t̖̝̔̂ư̙̜̝̂̕ṙ͕̱̕͟͠ȅ̳͕̞͓͌̋͂d̮̹͛̉ ̨̹̄̄
Willpower: H͈̠͆̽o̧̱̦̿̔͞ŕ̻ȑ͇̖̬̗̓̂̾î̯̦̠͆̓̃ͅf̛͇̥̑i̺̠̝̿̏́ed̨̪̩̀̀͊
Charisma: N̩͕̬͋̍͠ò̤̳̄t̛͈̲̝̃͑̅͟h̡̨̛̤͖̃̊͘i͐͟ǹ̖͕͔͗̆́͟g̙̯̭͂͗͝ǹ̦̦̼͔͂̂́͢͠ě̞͚̱̀͞ss̘͕̩̅̋͝
Attunement(s):I̫̱͛̑ņ̟̹̗͐̋͒͘co̢̹̹̥̍̎́͞m̡̛̺̭̈́͂̐͜p̋ͅa̯̠͓̼͗̏̓̈͟͠ẗ̨͎̪͗̿ȋ̺̞͗ḃ̗̘̕l̦̆ḛ̦͕̯̗̄̈́̓̂͘ ̺̦͖͗̓͠

Investment Points: N̛̮̘̩͒̚u̻̣̰͉̪̿̔̈̈́̄ĺ̰̙̳̍́̐̕͟͟l̜̑

Heavy Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜
Medium Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜
Light Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜

“What kind of Ferryman bull- Ooooo the surge wore off.” As my pounding heart comes to a more bearable pace I stare at my status screen. What type of requirement could I have possibly fulfilled? I Only killed a summon- ah that’s what I needed to do, time to go on a rampage and grind for kills! I scout my surroundings for any of those Shadowbolts. There’s about seven more copies of that same Shadowbolt fighting my sister and her friends. Only having slight differences in hair and body color.

“Girls ignore the fact that these appear to be ponies! Somehow I think Nightmare Moon has created long ranged summons which explains why they’re so weak.” That much is starting to become obvious to me.

On the plus side, my little sister is very capable in self-defense. She’s blasting most of them with pure kinetic force, mixing in some flavor by adding some flames too. Pinkie Pie is making use of some decorative cannon that’s shooting out high powered decorations, I doubt I can get anymore surprised by her shenanigans. And Fluttershy’s newest pet is spewing acid on them all, making them all evaporate without a trace.

Rarity is… Wow that is some vicious activity she’s doing with two flying scissors. If these things could bleed then she’d be soaked in blood right about now.

Out of seemingly nowhere a blobbed mass of dark tentacles forms from shadow through the ground. Its slime-like movements send a shudder down my spine. “Okay you ugly bastard of a summon, show me you won’t die in one hit.” One of the dark slimy tendrils lash out at me at a seemingly random interval. My legs pivot into the firm dirt below me, a small flash of white only visible to me surrounds my body. Intercepting the attack with my bronze blade the use of (Counter) in order to strike the tendril as I parry it.

The slime summon recoils in pain, letting out a loud gurgled shriek in the process. If there was a time for me to go in for the kill? It’d definitely be now. A strange changing force of air wraps around the area closest to my shoulders and chest, releasing a devastating critical strike into the vicious blob’s center. What I wasn’t expecting to see was a spear driving past it at the same time I struck it.

Nightmare Moon’s summon slowly disappears, turning into a dark miasma that gets sent into the air. I moved my head to the side to get a better look at who kill stole from me, and the thieving bastard was Marax of all people! “Surprised we caught up with you all in time? Vanishing flew above the tree line with (Agility) to keep up with you. We kept it to a light jog in case we were gonna run into trouble. And wouldn’t you know it, we did.” Marax explained, then without warning he frowned and executed a thrust next to my neck.

I involuntarily jerked to the side to be further away from the dangerous weapon. “Jesus what the heck Marax?!” My eyes traveled up the weapon when I saw an impaled spider that was ready to leap on me.

Pausing for a moment in the improvised battlefield I get to thinking. “I didn’t get an alert for that kill? Maybe I need a few more in order to satisfy requirements. This leveling system is such a guess and check, that’s what I get for having the leveling system of a no hand holding game that can’t tell ya jack shit.”

And now the feeling of humility, oh how I hate it so. “Huh, thanks for the save.” Marax nods in my direction and runs past William who was using bare knuckles in order to fight side by side with Marax. The duo’s synchronization made my own fighting style, which was more or else a process of trial and error until I found a weak point, seem like complete garbage. William’s punches are so precise, his punches seemed to strike in two places at once.

I’m completely out of my own element in this life or death situation. I have to keep going though. If an eternal night can lead to a world ending threat or whatever it was called, then this is something worth selfishly fighting for. Only because of my newest family. I need to focus on my soul, body, and mind, to make sure nothing goes awry.

“Doggone it, every time we destroy one of these guys another comes back. When is Rainbow gonna get here?!” Applejack’s complaint goes unnoticed by everyone except for Rarity.

“She should have arrived back when Ryan got here. What could have possibly happened on her side?” I faintly hear Fluttershy in the midst of battle.

A huge gust of wind covers our area of the forest originating from the cliffside towards the bridge. There lies two ponies, or I should say Rainbow Dash and Vanishing Flow both holding two sides of a bridge and tying them together.

Pinkie Pie breathes a sigh of relief and blasts another load of confetti onto an unsuspecting victim that was sneaking behind Fluttershy. “It’s about time you girls got here. What kept you both so long? You had every pony getting antsy.”

Rainbow Dash puffed up her chest and smiled. “It was the usual thing, some giant hunk of rock that kept trying to swing at me. You know, nothing I couldn’t handle. Vanishing helped too, making the process about twenty percent faster.”

I cusp both edges of my mouth to amplify my voice. “About damn time, everyone get across the bridge. We’ve got a castle to crash!” Everyone rushes for the bridge, making me smile. Everyone’s got common sense here.

Ponyville’s fashionista practically gallops across the bridge but slows herself down in order to make it a more ‘elegant’ stride. No surprise that she was the first one there with Applejack soon following afterwards. I feel like that’s a word she’d use to describe it. “Finally it’s over with! These scissors are ruined.” Rarity tosses her scissors over the edge and shrugs. “I’m glad I always carry backups.”

Eventually the entire group got onto the bridge except for me. I’ve got a bad feeling about this. Either nobody has noticed that the summons have stopped, well summoning or they chose to ignore it. That coupled with the constant chilling and tingling down my spine growing even worse every passing moment has made me think something is going to happen.

“Right, I got lost in thought for a moment.” My mouth runs dry. I silently walk behind everyone else as we travel across the bridge in a matter of moments and approach the ruined castle. Most of the trudging we do is in silence, how could it not be when anything can jump out at you.

Systematically everyone stops in front of the broken down entrance, our intent becoming clear. “Here we are sugarcube, you sure that those elements are up in there?” Still don’t know what those are, and I guess I’ll see them when I see them.

William opens his palms until he quickly clutches them again. “People, be prepared for anything that is to happen here. If those artifacts still lay to rest there then this is without a doubt, some form of trap.” The whole party gives their own form of an agreement or source of understanding.

My palms begin to sweat and my head starts spinning, worst of all it feels like my chest is about to explode. “Why is my heart drumming in my fucking chest now of all times?!”

Someone taps me on the shoulder. Twilight who looks, worried for me. “Ryan, are you……” I tuned her out, now I know some shit is off. I was taught from a young age to never ignore what your body was telling you to do. I draw a second bronze sword from my inventory, if anyone is reactant towards the feat I couldn’t hear them.

Four strange wooden wolves come from each side of the castle, each with green glowing eyes piercing through the night and what I can only assume fog as well, the same fog I cannot see, lucky me huh?

Pinkie Pie pulled an actual cannon from her hair and set it down. “Timberwolves? They appear now of all times, exactly when we’re about to get to the McGuffin too, amazing timing.” Timberwolves huh? These can’t be what were giving me that terrible chill down my spine.

William rolls his shoulders in preparation. “They are so large, Nightmare Moon must have used some sort of enhancement spell on them.”

Vanishing takes initiative first, throwing a silver dagger at one of them. Four dark clouds of smoke appear at that very moment which misdirects the course of the projectile. They all form into very wolf-like appearances. All gray and large manes, on all fours and five purple glowing eyes simulating a half circle on the tops of their muzzles.

“Are those Howlers? Can this day get any wor-”

I put up a hand to stop Rainbow Dash from continuing. “Don’t you dare ever finish that sentence. Matter of fact, everyone go up ahead and get whatever magical device is in there that’s gonna kick Nightmare Moon’s ass. Then come back for me. You all shouldn’t be tired when you get to the main event.”

Twiggles is in utter disbelief, and I don’t blame her. “Ryan, are you crazy?! They have a clear numbers advantage over you and will maul you to death before we reach even five steps in.”

A flat stare gets sent my way as Applejack watches me move forward. “That made just as much sense as a turtle living in the arctic, you sure you didn’t injure your head on the way here, sugarcube?”

Marax rests his spear on the ground and looks onto the open area of the cleared room. “I think he might be onto something, monsters like these only attack two at a time while the rest circle around. If he kills enough of them then the rest will flee.”

“This is definitely a nuts plan dude. I can respect a fellow who’s willing to do something so dangerous.” Rainbow Dash’s wings flap in the air. “Alright everyone you heard the man, lets save Equestria tonight!” She does her best to hurry everyone through as she gives me a thumbs up which I return, still not turning my back to the Howlers and the Timberwolves.

My vision narrows to the task in front of me, terminate some damn monsters and joke about it later, one step closer to freedom.

Chapter 5

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Chapter 6

(Perspective of view: Third Person)

“Shit, I’ve got a pounding headache, did I overdo it last night? Ah who am I kidding, I’m surprised I could even fight that hard by myself.” Ryan’s mind brings itself awake as he realizes that he is surrounded by a familiar dark black void, the only difference being the distinct lack of wording present proclaiming his death.

“Am I seriously back here, no wait, I am back here.” Ryan shook his had as he adopted a mock thinker’s pose. “No that’s obvious therefore either my body is comatose and I won’t wake up or I am slowly perishing from overuse of my body.”

“Wrong and wronger. To think such a nihilist defeated us in a fight. We cannot believe our everlasting victory was denied by a cretin such as yourself. Ah it does feel nice to speak in a more modern version of Equish however.” A dark and cold voice churns out.

Already Ryan turned sharp, vigilant of his surroundings and the inconspicuous voice. “It’s always one thing after the other, I swear it’s like a brick wall here.” Even through his unguarded speech there were still bits of his nature seeded through. “They said ‘us,’ interesting. A hivemind mayhaps?” He quietly noted to himself.

Ryan spent no time turning around whilst re-equipping his dagger. Only to be met face to face with a plume of pure darkness that was a shade darker than the void that surrounded him. “I’m sorry but who are you?”

The conglomerate of darkness chuckled; a myriad of voices being heard all at once. “Do not play coy, you know who we are.” The presence practically snarled out, its hostility growing by the second. “You had a helping hand in the element’s win over after all. You damnable existence. If we knew you were a Champion then-” The darkness briefly lunged out a tendril of darkness.

“-We would have killed you were you stood.” The tendril stopped moments before hitting its mark. Ryan’s eyes uncharacteristically widen in fear.

He tried his hardest to keep his composure but bits of weakness trickled past him, so he turned his fear into strength, and strength into rage. “But you obviously did not and that resulted in your defeat, Nightmare Moon. The lonely one, the one who won’t be missed, the dead mistake. Take your pick but it’s what you are.”

“Wrong once again Steele.” The dark entity snides. “Nightmare Force, that is what we are. Or at least a fraction of its collective consciousness.” The being named Nightmare Force retracts its tendril away from Ryan with a huff. “This rarely happens to us unless capability is present for another agent to be within our midst. Count your stars as this is to be the only reason we find you tolerable.”

Ryan pulled his dagger closer to his head; only to realize the dagger he thought he was holding was never there in the first place. His eyes briefly widened before returning to normal. “A reality warping entity? And this is only a fraction of its power? I’m surprised I haven’t already been ripped apart but I can figure out a few reasons for why.”

“Relax your posture, smile, and greet with open arms ready as the debonair guy you are.” Ryan steadily laxed his shoulders and presented the same toothy grin he’d give to Princess Celestia, not friendly nor could it be called out as fake.

“Okay I can tell you most likely want a mutual interaction between the two of us, correct?” He curiously prodded.

The Nightmare Force moved forward as if to appear more present in the conversation. “We should be asking you that. Strong wills have to force us into their mindscape to have the grandiose chance of speaking to us.”

“...Ah, this will take a while then. Do you mind setting up a more comfortable scene that would accommodate the two-”

“-Done.” In an instant a world came into form. Patterned gray bricks served as the cobblestone roads, tall castle-like buildings surrounded the pair, cars out of the late 1880s appeared and infrequently drove past the two, an endless crescent moon, Ryan himself was sat directly across the perfect double of Nightmare Moon sitting down with a cup of tea in her hands as she placed it back at the table that was created in front of them.

“This feels familiar yet homey, a light fog is covering this place and that large clock tower is giving me some sort of comfort. I do strongly dislike being cut off however, not that there’s anything I could do about this entity in the first place.”

The duplicate of Nightmare Moon sighed. “This is the most we can cater, anymore and it would be considered babying you. Now then you may ask away as long as we may do the same.”

“Well I’d like to apologize about the rudeness I showed during battle, you see-” The Cameo began.

But the entity was quick to stop him. “-You are not sorry at all, not in the slightest. Cut the pleasantries already.”

Ryan carefully nodded his head. “Fine, what exactly are we supposed to do here? How much do you know about me?”

‘Nightmare Moon’ hummed in thought. “It depends on what exactly you desire. And we do not know enough. It’s our turn to ask two questions now.”

Ryan silently cursed himself. “Shit, I got nothing out of that and she, I mean it, got two freebies out of this.”

“Do you realize you called upon a goddesses’ attack during that last attack against us?” She questioned.

The newly ascended being waited for the second question but it never came. “More and more questions, dammit! I don’t even understand what she’s asking but I feel like I cannot waste a question asking something like that. She’s gauging what to ask about my response then. Too clever of them.”

“No and I have no idea where the attack came from. It was out of ‘unique’ circumstances we’ll call it.” He honestly answered.

‘Nightmare Moon’ took another sip of her tea and narrowed her eyes in concentration as if searching for something. And that snide smile of hers told him that she found exactly that. “Hm, ah that is interesting. Tell me, how is your relationship with our past host’s abuser?”

Ryan looked dumbfounded by the question. “I’m sorry, who are you talking about?”

“Princess Celestia the one and only solar tyrant of course.” The Nightmare clarified though was slightly disgusted by the looks of it. “The one who oppressed our previous host and is doing the same to you Steele. Grooming you into a protector of one Twilight Sparkle and soon the rest of the Elements if our deduction is correct.”

“...” He stopped, the man stopped breathing, stopped moving, stopped looking, all of this stopped for three seconds.

“Never again.” He uttered. “Never again do you look through my mind to pull out details.” Ryan’s stone cold expression threatened to cut the Nightmare Force in twain only to meet her unamused glare.

‘Nightmare Moon’ only grinned in response, a grin that was wholly familiar to the knowing monster. “You never offered a price for such a hefty request, to add to that you never answered our question, and disrespected us upon our own land. That was three strikes and three is enough.”

“We desired to ease you into this. Ryan Steele you have officially lost that privilege.” The living nightmare continued. Ryan’s eyebrows furrowed at this.

“Mind reader, reality warping, territorial. I really do have my work cut out for me.” He felt as if he should’ve bashed his head against the cold unfeeling metal in front of him before realizing how little good it would do him.

“Frankly you know nothing about anything. Not about how your little ‘system’ works as you call it. Yes we have seen it in its full glory but the way you are working through it is a major misuse of this potential power.” The Nightmare Force haughtily chuckled. “Thankfully in your case we know much for our knowledge is many. We can offer you an oasis in this desert you find yourself in.” They took another sip of tea, but their piercing eyes were still locked on to Ryan’s gaze.

Ryan blinked. “You are offering me a magical contract?” But there was no way they would do that after being killed by me would they ever even consider an essence binding agreement-

The Nightmare Force slapped the tea cup on the table at such an unbelievable force for a ‘casual’ conversation that both parties would believe this to be and in a poof a short scroll appeared on the table which was levitated over to Ryan Steele. “Exactly that, in fact we’ve already written it down and just need your signature. Read if you desire or do not, we don’t care. Either way this would greatly benefit the both of us, you more so than I.” The Nightmare Moon double hardened their gaze. “We still meant what we said before about you having you as a great future investment to us.”

The man of supposed chimeric origin narrowed his eyes into a glare; his mind became sharper as he began visualizing everything inside his mind as if this were a game. Every single pint of wordplay he knew came to the forefront of his own mind; he’d never allow himself to become a slave to yet another monster, not if he could help it.

Wordlessly the man snatched the scroll that stayed in its temporary stasis within the air. His mind trailed throughout the contract and fluently began reading the piece of paper word by word. Decidedly he was to wear his emotions on his sleeves, for how it may offer more opportunities to tweak the permanent agreement if necessary

“To the entity known as Ryan Steele, he shall be granted permanent partnership with the piece of the Nightmare Force that he has inside his mind. Inside this mutually beneficial relationship the main benefactor, The Nightmare Force, will impose a nonstandard geas to Ryan Steele that states the following.”

“Number 1, the Nightmare Force will always offer sound and helpful advice to Ryan Steele when asked as long as it aligns with both their goals for the long and short of it while he is unconscious or asleep. Otherwise this will only form in instinctual grants of emotional pulls to feel out certain dilemma.”

“Number 2, it is imperative that the Nightmare Force will also be able to receive information regarding any prevalent information during this partnership to avoid infractions.”

“Number 3, the Nightmare Force will bestow the knowledge it has accumulated into tutelage to Ryan Steele while bestowing passive resistance to evil influence, both physical and mental; however this, as stated in rule number one, only works in the dream realm.

“Number 4-A, Under no general circumstance is Ryan Steele allowed to let others know about this partnership nor hint at it unless it is absolutely necessary and agreed upon or if the Nightmare Force is inactive at the time then the decision is to be made by Ryan Steele’s personal judgment.”

“Number 4-B, Upon the agreement of this geas the goal of Ryan Steele and the Nightmare Force will be enacted. This is to kill Princess Celestia at all costs. At some point when both partners agree they shall take steps and employ methods to defeat and kill Princess Celestia, failure to do so will result in the contract being broken and Ryan Steele perishing.”

The Nightmare impatiently taps her hoof on the stone ground below, their arms cross over one another as an unreadable expression replaces her previous one of confidence and Ryan knowingly smiled- no, grinned with a maddening expression.

“They must really be crazy to think that I would…”

“Accept, I accept the terms and conditioning of this contract and in turn this geas. Pleasure working with a fellow monster in arms!” Ryan gleefully answered. He himself reached over and over rapidly shook the Nightmare’s hand before letting it go.

Instead of the ferocity that Ryan was expecting to follow suit afterwards he instead got a pleasant smirk in return.

“Oh? Such eagerness for an insurrection we see. Or is it truly the personal endeavor that clouds your mind to answer?” They haughtily laughed at Ryan. “Whatever the matter is, know that this binds you for the rest of your existence Steele so if this is an act we would suggest you drop it.” Their snout still peaks through to show something that the Nightmare Force had barely showcased before, genuine positivity and Ryan knew how great the reasoning was.

“Are you kidding me?” The human sneered in disbelief yet still upheld his very own sense of playfulness. “Nightmare Force before I say anything else if we are to delve deeper into making this hypothetical partnership official then I will need to call you something different.”

They tilt their head, their ears perking up in the process. “Hm? And what exactly did you have in mind Ryan Steele?” They mockingly asked.

And Ryan provided an answer with a laxed look on his face “Alter. It is uncannily fitting to name you Alter. Nightmare Force; you, in essence, are an Alter or rather that is what I can deduce. An entity or collective not too dissimilar to yourself is meant to ‘corrupt’ the thoughts of others and warp what the future had in store for them.” Ryan held upon two arms from side to side. “And to that I’m welcoming an altercation, I reject the future that the Princess has set for me.”

The bundle of consciousness gently digested what the human in front of them spoke of and nodded. “You may now refer to us as Alter then if it would please you; we aren’t displeased with it. As for your reasoning to accepting this deal Mr. Steele?” The newly named Alter questioned.

Ryan’s foot tapped against the stone floors somehow echoing in the open space that surrounded them. “A song.” His head turned up to stare at the moon. “When I fought you, the world itself was singing.”

This seemed to catch the Nightmare being’s attention. “Truly? Maybe we were fated to lose then. What exactly did you hear?”

“I was called a monster, a grinning wolf in sheep’s clothing, whatever you’d call it, but the one thing that stayed constant was my craftiness, never once outright saying those things and instead using strong implications. It always spoke of false dreams of mine and how there were things better than just protecting myself.” The man sighed and shook his head, the moon almost shined back at him. “Strength is needed for a broken toy to fix itself; pieces are chipped and can’t be put back together so you force them to be. To fight for them.” Ryan looked back down at the previous enemy.

“...Ain’t it obvious in the end? Because I can’t do a thing, I’m just sinking further and further into something so artificial it’s sickening.” Ryan’s face soured into something fierce. “This is about the most I’ve expressed myself in a long time and it’s to a damn villain! But you know what? I couldn’t care less, I just need to protect a family I care about and protect my ideals of adventure and fun with all that I am. I need to be stronger!” In a burst of agility and rage the table the two were sitting at was kicked over, shattering the teacup that rested on it. Ryan’s face turned from disgust into rage as he came onto the veil of shouting at Alter who only sat there with a considerate but distant look.

His hands formed claws at his side and he kept an angrily disturbing cycle of breath. “We’re living in a world that’s so gray it lapses back into black and white. This endless cycle is despicable and the ones in charge are the only ones who can stop it but fear the casualties.” The fog that was around them steadily began increasing in density. “And if I have to kill some princesses, kings, queens, or any rulers then so be it. A small price to pay for something that should have been. All I wanted to do was have one of those fanatical adventures you'd read in a fairytale and it was ruined, all because I was at the wrong place at the wrong time. Now I need to take life by the reins and you will help me with that Alter.” The man’s violet eyes bore holes into the ground as he forced a smile. “So, does that tickle your fancy? Or do I need to write an essay for it?”

He did not have to wait long for an answer, a slow cascading applause came from Alter. “We have all the answers we need dear Ryan Steele. We look forward to working with you under equalship.” Alter raised a hand towards Ryan who didn’t hesitate to shake it.

“As do I, Alter. Ah and a shame I did not see the irony sooner; you picked London of all places to meet up or my subconscious did so and I didn’t realize it.” At this Alter grinned as their body lit up in a blue inferno that felt oddly comforting to Ryan, still holding onto their hand for longer than intended before releasing it. The contract became lit in this brilliant blue azure that engulfed the thick piece of papyrus.

“Do I ask my questions now or wait? Alter’s got that same thinly veiled expression that isn’t giving her true intentions away.” It’s been so long since Ryan has had a proper challenge besides Princess Celestia who’d be prone to brushing him off as anything but. “Am I infuriated by this? No, this is akin to a smart prey going against a hunter. A circle of nature so l refuse to leave that to self-denigration. I will play my cards how they are meant.”

His mind made up he decided to point out something that was bugging him from his tardy recollection. “Late 1880s aesthetic, intense fog, Big Ben, maybe I am a fool who still has much to learn or maybe this is another one of my acts, who could say for certain? Or maybe I really am a cursed man.”

Alter, still seated in her chair, tapped a hoof to the ground. The fog grew denser as it climbed up Ryan’s body, obscuring his vision bit by bit, not that he minded. “And how would you define your actions if given the opportunity?”

Ryan deeply inhaled, the fog had begun to gather at his neck and above the streets of this made up version of London, not that he cared. “A person willing to ‘wait and hope’ someone to hope that there are other kindred spirits out there to manipulate for my will and still desiring to be my friend. There is no precise way to describe stupidity for it is brave to be stupid even if unwillingly.” The Cameo simply answered.

The fog finally reached his eyes, obscuring his vision, not that he needed it. “So be it then, we’re afraid our time has run out Ryan Steele. As you can tell the clock will soon strike midnight signaling your true benefactor’s reach to speak to you.”

He unconditionally frowned in anger. “You tricked me, you let me run out the clock.” Ryan said, almost as if asking a question.

Alter only smiled as she shook her head. “Are you surprised that someone can play your same game?” The fog began seething with a darkness that whirled around the two of them, just barely obscuring what the piece of the Nightmare Force was saying. “We truly do have much to teach you then Mr. Steele because this shan’t go on. The so-called ‘big leagues’ of our world will eat you up and devour your naivety in an arduous attempt to try and harm us.”

Before Ryan could say anything he was swallowed whole inside the insidious umbral coating. And brought back unto the darkness he resided in previously.

“Fucking dammit!” The swindled man kicked out at the open darkness. “Now they’ve got more information on me than I do of them.” He sighs and slumps his shoulders. “Alright well they said someone else was waiting for me so who is it this time?”

“Collect yourself and remember you are the one who’s going to figure everything out. Judging by their willingness to throw me out into the deep end they’re probably aiming for dramaticism so in around three… Two… One…”

“That would be us. You, Ryan Steele, are our champion and because of that we have left you alone for a total of eight years.” The voice is gruff and immensely distorted, one that echoes all around the space Ryan hovers inside.

The rebirthed human’s forehead wrinkles but he manages to crack a smile. “So you’re my benefactors, how come you let me make a deal without meeting you two first?”

“Do not fret our dearest creation, you are to relax in our domain. We brought you here to bring information. Some other entity happened to beat us to the proverbial punch.” A calmer and feminine voice speaks; the tone was akin to honey, a sickly sweet one at that.

“Then you both have a lot to answer for.” Ryan holds out his hand to call upon his inventory, nothing appeared in it. “Huh, what the heck is wrong with my inventory?”

Some booming laugh echoes throughout the voided space. “You would dare use the gift we bestowed to you against us? Especially after giving you one that is so conceptually flexible in use. What guts, we were right to pick you as a successor.”

“Antics, do not mind Ya’lada. He is excited to finally see you in person as am I, Ryan Steele.” The woman’s voice assured.

“I thought we agreed not to use my nickname in front of him Gaia.”

The apparent entity named Gaia verbally sighs and chuckles. “He will figure it out anyways if he is to be our most trusted human. We should simply introduce ourselves to him. Bring out the form I made you.”

There’s a small grumble that sounds throughout the void.

A strange humanoid woman made completely of ethereal refracting clear chunks of crystal that are loosely floating together, appears a few paces in front of Ryan, a crown made of stone rotates above the figure in a halo fashion.

When the humanoid descends, so does another entity. They have one key feature about them, they are a rhombus shaped rock that has a violet colored ring surrounding a blood red light that originates from its center. Several pieces of obsidian that appeared as branches orbited around the abnormal creature.

Creatures like these shouldn’t exist, not to Ryan that is. It’s the reason for being on edge against the incomprehensible factors in front of him.

The conglomerate of refracting mass glows as it speaks. “I am Gaia, your co-creator and deity. The feats you have performed without our help thus far have been impressive. I expected no-less from a successor and those looks have certainly been doing you favors, and you may thank me for blessing you with them.” Gaia giggles at the end of her introduction.

“And I am Yaldabaoth, your other co-creator and demi-drowned god. We were the one who blessed you with a new family here in this world. A surprise no? Mortals such as yourself believe Gaia to be the progenitor of all things kindly related. Do not tell her we said this but she gets on our damnedest nerves.” The floating dark mass joked, neither parties laughed however and instead left an awkwardness in the air.

“Yaldabaoth and Gaia? I can’t remember anything specific about them, sure one of the original worlds was named Gaia. Not that it was specifically any sort of goddess though. Yaldabaoth though? I think I can recall him being a false god, something to do with limiting freedoms. What is it with all this history being brought out? 1880s London, the literal Earth, and some god of Control.”

Although Gaia had no eyes, Ryan the silent observer, could tell that she was deadpanned based on how she was staring at Yaldabaoth. “Ha ha Ya’lada, Ryan must be rolling around the mental space from such a jest.” She had cleared her throat(?) or at least emulated that, earning some confusion from Ryan. “Dear Ryan, do not allow for Yaldabaoth’s terrible gestures dissuade you from whatever questions you may have for us. Please ask away successor.”

The Cameo wasted no time with the goddess’ polite acknowledgement. There were a million different things he wanted to say, a bit more than half of them were offenses that could never be told to the commonwealth or he’d be arrested on the spot. He knew none would help if what they were saying was true. Instead Ryan Steele, the ever respectable man, was thinking, he figured that what was thought next in his mind would need to be said aloud. Behind using humor to lighten the mood, he had a feeling the actual question he wanted to ask would not have a pleasant answer.

Rolling his wrist to attempt to give himself some time to speak, Ryan finally got to express his legitimate opinion for once. “Color me disappointed then, I was hoping you’d both have sexier forms on the count of being, well, gods?”

Gaia’s vessel rolls around on the floor, laughing her crystals off, including in the literal sense. Yaldabaoth, being the more serious of the two had a small pinkish tint on his rhombus-esque vessel which were covered by the several floating obsidian branches. “E-excuse me? Would you mind repeating that? We thought of it to be something debauchery in nature to the eidolon that is before you.”

Ryan stepped forward, finally having the edge of this back and forth, no matter how much it cost him what little self-dignity he had. A shameless man to be sure. “You heard me, and Gaia heard me too. From outer gods I’d expect sexiness! Maybe it’s because I never got to see that one continuation of Sucker For Love, or whatever it was called. But I guess this isekai just isn’t the harem type huh? Y’know… Unless one of you could fix that for me.”

While the crystal body flailed around on the ground, she held her abdomen area while snorting in laughter. “Y-Ya’lada! Did you hear what the m-mortal just said?! We were propositioned, propositioned for the first time in history! Ah this is the funniest moment I’ve had since we got you and Mekhane in a room together for negotiations!”

Gaia gave herself a second to recover as she saw Ryan floating closer to Yaldabaoth in a cocky manner, which did not help the immense blush he was building up. “No way, not in any eternity are you blushing. I thought only I could make you do that, then again you are relatively new yourself to this god-hood thing.”

Yaldabaoth did not think that embarrassment at the cost of his own humility was worth it, not as the two trolls in the void did. “Drowned gods do not BLUSH! If you only have ridiculous questions like that then this is going to end until our next encounter.”

“Drowned gods, better remember that term. Goodness this is all a pain for a thinker like me. But stupidity is optimal yet ignorance is avoidable.”

I backed away, retreating from my approach and conceding. “Okay, jeez calm down I was only playing, but you’ve got my number if… Y’know.” Another groan reverberates from Yaldabaoth. “Right, serious. Okay then, I think you both expected me to ask this.” Ryan Steele took a deep breath, it was good while it lasted. Comedy like that was hard to come by for him, so he always had to make it himself. “Why am I here, why me, and most of all, why were my stats so bugged out?”

A rough sigh came from Yaldabaoth’s vessel, the blush he had was slowly fading away. “A heavy hitting question as one of your old kind would say. Very well, I was always the better when it came to story telling Ryan Steele. I know Gaia will interrupt me, it’s an inevitability.”

Ryan leaned forward despite the fact he was levitating in a dark void. “Old kind? Is he referring to when I was a normal person, relatively speaking that is, that was still going through college?”

Yaldabaoth snorted; or at least emulated something eerily similar to a snort. “Yes, I am, after all we were the ones who brought you here. Originally you were always meant to become a Cameo. Though sending one from another dimension entirely and then having them become the pinnacle of what all races should be is very difficult. Naturally this ended in an accident. You were turned into a Castellan that had the same physical traits of a Cameo except for one. That is something you will find out of your slumber.”

Ryan tries to wrack his brain for anything relating to the word ‘Cameo’ and only draws blanks. “Mind reading and making up terms, I’ll take a shot and say that it’s a new creation of yours? That race sounds more falsified ya know, and it takes a liar to know another’s lie. Also if you ‘pulled me’ from Earth then you should know that you two are just made up video game characters where I come from.” He would not make the same mistake of not asking questions twice.

“First and second, yes and no respectively. We acknowledge that it’s the truth where you come from. Obviously that is not the case in this realm. Third neither I, nor Gaia have lied to you thus far. Cameos do exist, just not for a few millennia to our knowledge, however we have erased your memory of it for safekeeping. We will only transfer said knowledge once you wake up.”

“Repressed? Are you screwing with me right now? Is everything inside my head going to be some sort of mind manipulating creature?” These thoughts go unsaid by Ryan as he knew there was a good chance consequences would be presented if he did.

Yaldabaoth grunts and turns his vessel away for a moment. “There’s no divine reasoning for that, I simply do not wish to deal with a whining man child that complains of a gift bestowed upon them.”

Gaia’s form lurched at Yaldabaoth with playful intent, settling for a small shove instead. “What he means is that the results may not be to your liking. Now then, as for the specific reasoning for your abilities? Your competitive and brazen spirit allows for you to make a myriad of mistakes and the system helps you correct and learn from them.”

Ryan pondered, his gaze upwards to the endless abyss. “Is that why I randomly got that skill when I was about to die?”

The crystalline goddess claps her limbs together which somehow produce a normal sounding applause. “Well done, now you are getting it, successor! As for your main purpose being here we need an agent. To make sure that the title of “Mad King” is passed along nicely. There was a Mad King before you who could use nearly no ether yet he acquired world class fame, that will be your same goal. Or rather it is to keep balance, traveling to different continents to make sure everything is in working order. So that similar events to the Great Drowning never occur.”

Putting mockery aside, Ryan is far from sold on this. “O…Kay? How the fuck do you want me to do that? I got my ass kicked by Alter. If you ever wanted me to stop some sort of big bad then I’d need an entire team at the very least.”

Two of Yaldabaoth’s branches float in front of Ryan; they slowly bond to each other as a demonstration. “Ah right, ‘Alter’ the one you formed a contract with. Ryan, you will always be accompanied during your travels, that is a part of our blessing.” Then the obsidian branches snap and break off from each other. “This does not mean that these companions will always stay together which is why you must travel and learn. Because of this, once you travel you are to be named Myriad to symbolize this. Alter is one of many who will crusade and one of few that should be permanent.”

“That is the reason we also gifted you with that book you picked up. It will give you knowledge on what you do not already know. Think of it as a starting guide.” Gaia added.

Ryan rapidly shook his head after hearing this. “You two are basically saying I’m gonna lose friends as soon as I earn them? Hm, C’est la vie I’d suppose. And Myriad, hey I like the name. Many of one as one is many” The prospect of having to constantly experience loss without fail actually makes Ryan chuckle, life truly is going to get better for him, no longer will it be arduous

Gaia’s normally refracturing light turned to a hue of green and her motherly tone became more comforting. “It is not to say that the friends you have made went to become all for naught. Simply that it is going to be apart of the process of living.”

Her partner retracted both obsidian branches and crossed them over each other, resembling a similar gesture to crossing arms. “And your power will become unrivaled. Ryan, you will become the entire deck of cards to build a house, thus, victory will pave its way to you.”

Ryan chuckled at hearing the mere idea from Yaldabaoth. “I ain’t no Gary Stu that can do whatever he wants, heck without the inventory and training from Celestia’s forces I almost got my ass kicked by Marax, who was holding back while I on the other hand was playing dirty.”

The demi-drowned god, whatever that was supposed to mean, let out a hearty laugh that came from his core. “That is why we picked you. Any and all who follow you will do so either from pure hate or pure love, you speak your mind even if unneeded, much like now.”

“Yaldabaoth, our time runs thin here. Let's wrap this up and make our way to the casino. Besides we can spare no more for hints.” Gaia confessed with a strict and rule-following voice.

Ryan felt the complete opposite, as if listening to two parents explaining the most rudimentary of things to him as he sat there listening. It was safe to say that Ryan didn’t enjoy this feeling, missing Spike and Twilight with each passing second, mostly Spike but don’t tell Twilight he thought that.

Yaldabaoth’s crystalised rhombus of a body turned to Gaia’s vessel. “Right, this time we shall win Gaia, I swear it! Hopefully this time we will not lose like in that one mass chess match we had with the other gods. They all quit halfway through, such a shame too, I had money on the human turned dragon there.” The half drowned god reminisced about some unknown chess match that Ryan had no knowledge of. Gaia’s crystal body held a posture that told of nearing sourness but teetered back to content. Eventually Yaldabaoth turned back to Ryan. “Seeing as I can no longer answer questions, instead I will list off your gifts, after all no good deed goes unpunished.”

A static blue screen pops up in front of Ryan’s face, bold lettering appears inside it confines.

‘Congratulations! A reward of legends has been bestowed upon you by the gods themselves. It has a very small chance of containing mediocre goods.’

“There’s nothing actually listed-” Ryan tries to say before he’s cut off by a sudden second screen that has ‘Rewards’ in bold, below it is the image of some yellow ring that has thin strands of gold wiring that encases a green orb, the second picture is of a earring with a small vine coming from it, the third image held a large wooden treasure chest that was by far the largest he’d ever seen, the final picture was… That’s fucking wrong, wow.

“That’s not funny let alone hilarious.” Ryan simply stated, how could they do that to him? Sure he was a dick but why was a picture of a stick figure getting impaled nine times by spikes on here?

Gaia raised a crystal arm as if to ponder what Ryan meant. Then she remembered the image he was suggesting to. “It is no joke young one; that is your magical trigger. It was Ya’lada’s idea to bless you with true magic besides reinforcing your physicality. Yours is unique because of its “hacked” nature, so this is the workaround. All you need to do is imagine yourself being impaled nine times, that exact moment with the nightmare if you have to and magic will be able to properly flow through you.”

Ryan rolled his eyes at the notion. “Still didn’t have to be such a poor reminder. As for my stats, why the fuck couldn’t I access them?” If they were going to be disrespectful about his death, which hurt like a bitch by the way, then why shouldn’t Ryan return the favor?

“Apologies, we were working on patch notes the entire time. They were fixed as soon as you perished.” Gaia admitted, having zero shame for what was said. The goddess had made a huffing sound as she saw Ryan’s cold expression. “Do not get pissy with me. After all, I was the one who gave you two gifts rather than one.”

Yaldabaoth’s red core glows even brighter, it emanates a strange colden heat around himself, giving Ryan the chills. “Are we really going there?! Okay fine then, Ryan when you meet an entity named Discord tell him that Yaldabaoth said that he owes me a favor. There! Now I am not as stingy as you would have him believe you glorified ascended fey! Now good bye!”

“Hold on, you two didn’t answer all of my questions!” Ryan attempted to hover forward yet the attempt was in vain. There was a pounding sensation inside of his head that made him lurch over in the void, eventually passing out inside the void with more questions than he could have ever possibly had answers to.

Chapter 7

(Perspective of view: Ryan Steele)

“Is… he …ake?”

“Applejack ….ook!”

My head started to rise after recovering whatever dream delusional trip that was. I could hear bits and pieces of two people talking to each other until I eventually came to my senses. I didn’t like when I did. Flashes of memories I never knew I had come to me, knowledge implanted into my mind revolving around death and rebirth from the encounter with the two deities is devastating.

“Nine regenerating lives, that’s what this body brings me. Any god who calls this a fucking gift is out of their minds.” My aging even stopped.

Where am I? The depressing atmosphere and nearly pure white room, an uncomfortable bed I’m lying down on and covered up in bandages around my arms and head while wearing some white robe with green polka dots. Applejack was hovering over, smiling wider than I thought she could even manage. Probably could’ve rivaled the pink demon’s smile too. Yep, I’m in a hospital right now.

A shiver rolls down my back at the mere thought of her. “Good thing I’ll never see her ever again.” The shivers only grow worse after thinking that.

Applejack looks at my shuddering body. A concerned frown is present on the gal’s face. “Looky here, the fellow is finally awake, about time too. The doctors ain’t say he was physically sick though, in that head of his is an entirely different story.”

“Hardy hardy har.” I start sitting up to give the pony a piece of my mind to repay her for the terrible joke. “You’re a real piece of work lady and I’d kick your ass if it meant that I could- OOF!” I’m cut off when an attacker leaps at my chest and wraps their arms around me in a death grip, actually making that two attackers because another one piles on my other side.

The purple colored scamp who was already my height had decided to tighten his claws around my midsection. “Ryan! Fuck me man! You had a bro worry about you. We were already arranging the funeral too, guess Night and Shining aren’t gonna be popping beer bottles now.” Spike’s happy face was always a sight to see.

Besides a few of my bones probably cracking under the pressure I decided to crack a joke for my little brother to lighten the mood. “Yeah, well tell pops and Shining that there isn’t an easy way of getting rid of me. I’ll guide you so much to the point where Twilight’s lectures start leaving your head.”

From the other side of this frontal assault, a pair of purple hands tries bringing me closer to them. “Ryan, if you keep scaring us, my mane is going to go white from stress. I was so scared when you got those injuries, they should have been life threatening for Celestia’s sake!”

I manage a laugh out of my throat. “It doesn’t matter, we’re all fine and dandy. It’s a shame I’ll never see that weird place again. I’m pretty sure I owe them some sort of birthday present when that time rolls around.” The orange pony who was beside the hospital bed, snorted in amusement.

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that partner. I am here standing in front of y’all so that could be a good indicator.” Applejack grinned, I considered what she meant. It’s hard to do so with a lack of oxygen however.

Rubbing the bottom of my nonexistent beard, I do my best to come up with some explanation. “Mmm, is it a send off party? Which in that case, you’re cool in my book if you’re willing to stick around for however long ago I got knocked out for.” Spike moves one of the hands that were constricting around me to cover his own mouth, holding back his laughter.

My little brother’s eye holsters a glint of mischief. “If that’s what you want then you won’t like what Twilight has to say.” I raise an eyebrow and look at Twi as if to ask, ‘what does he mean by that?’

Twilight smile grows to a fully fledged tooth filled smile. “We’re staying here in Ponyville, all three of us are. I guess you can go out to get those drinks that you were offering.”

“I’m staying here? S-so no more luxury bedrooms, maid service, or protection by the crown?” I nearly devolved into a fully fledged attack. A nigh complete and utter mental spiral to feel myself go insane but control myself enough in an act of composure. “No more adult supervision. I am the adult now! I’ll be able to rip and tear at the seams whenever I desire and no egotistical maniac of a poser can stop me! I’ll do whatever I want now Princess Celestia.”

Twi pokes the side of my cheek. “Uh are you alright Ryan?” She asks me.

A sly grin I didn’t know I was holding appeared. “Oh you’ve got no idea how alright I am.” I start ruffling up my own hair to get rid of its new morning appearance. “When am I gonna be discharged? I don’t see any injuries on myself, plus nothing feels broken as far as I’m concerned.”

“And I think we all know why that is.” Twilight’s tone turns serious, she motions for Spike to leave, who shrugs and walks out of the door. “Ryan, by all means you should be dead. I chose not to tell Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna doesn’t seem to remember you dying during that fight.” Dammit I should have predicted that. Of course oh so mighty Princess Celestia herself would check up on her student; gotta have some type of save for this, right? And my number one sister hid the truth from her; maybe those loyalty lessons have been paying off.

“I don’t recognize who the hell Princess Luna is though. Maybe she’s some sort of long distant royal from another land.” Assuming my guess is right, I’ve got another royal up my ass to think about then.

Applejack nods, agreeing with my younger sibling. “It just ain’t natural, which is why this entire thing doesn’t add up Sugarcube.” She walks forward, her hooves clopping on the floor, when she places a hand on the side of my bed. “Don’t you have any idea how that happened? This ain’t even mentioning the huge spark of light that came from you.” I blankly stare ahead, being sure not to gaze into either of their eyes.

Dammit this is too soon. Heck, I’m only learning why that happened now. Keeping my mind busy from it is what’s keeping me from wrecking this room from top to bottom.

Opening my mouth for a second, I close it again, unsure of what exactly to say.

A bead of sweat drops from my back. I make a clicking noise with my tongue and sigh, charisma stat be damned if it didn’t help me in this situation. “I’m not sure if I’m ready to answer that. Could you all just leave out? I need some time to think for myself, I can’t slip back into what I was thinking about.” Fuck me for half truths. All I can do is practically stall and stall for time on this.

The two ponies look at each other. Quickly moving away from the opposite sides of the bed and whispering to each other in the farther corner of the room. They briskly nod and leave one after the other, not before Applejack says this though.

“Take care of yourself before you take care of others Ryan. I don’t care if you’re rough around the edges, you are a friend to me and more important to your family. I’ll always be at Sweet Apple Acres if you need me.” She gives me a pitying smile, carefully making sure not to slam the door shut.

I instantly go slack in my hospital bed, releasing a breath of relief.

“Just me, myself, and I.” I soberly joke. Might as well check out my fixed stats now.

‘Showcasing player: (Ryan Steele/Myriad) Status screen!’

Player: (Ryan Steele/Myriad)

Power 15
Born: 11/21/03
Race: Cameo (Ascended)
Age: 28
Time: 9:42 AM
Strength: 25
Agility:40
Intelligence: 5
Willpower: 15
Fortitude: 15
Charisma: 35
Attunement(s): None
Armor: 100%
Blood: 100%
Hunger: 99%
Thirst: 89%

Investment Points: 37

Medium Weapon: 35
Light Weapon: 20
Heavy Weapon: 10

I snorted. “Something to keep track of my vitals? That isn’t nearly enough to compensate but who am I to complain, a wronged soul in a wronger world by the wrongest Princess to exist.”

“That’s much, much better, might as well point these left over points to good use. And stop doing the whole ‘Myriad’ thing, it’s annoying beyond belief.” I pressed the plus signs next to the stat screens.

Player: (Ryan Steele)

Power 15
Born: 11/21/03
Race: Cameo (Ascended)
Age: 28
Time: 9:42 AM
Strength: 25
Agility:40
Intelligence: 5
Willpower: 15
Fortitude: 15
Charisma: 40
Attunement(s): None

Investment Points: 0

Medium Weapon: 50
Light Weapon: 22
Heavy Weapon: 25

A small audible ping from above my forehead appears, a blue orb from it materializes and breaks open, showing me four cards that had the same yellow and brown ornate decoration that I’ve previously seen.

‘New talent(s) unlocked; Steady footing, Wyvern’s Claw, Thresher’s Claw, Avenger (D+). New Mantra(s) unlocked; Twin Cleave’

“More bullshit to worry about for later. I’m tired of staring at these blue screens all day.” I grumble.

As Ryan prepared to open up the loot chest that was also gifted to him, a knock at the door nearly stopped me yet he managed to clumsily press it anyways, activating an animation in the process.

(Perspective of view: Third Person)

Princess Celestia has been known to be a patient mare, awaiting for her dear and cherished friend Ryan Steele to get situated. After her student left for home and told her to withhold congratulations for ten or so minutes, she understood.

She however was growing concerned after hearing Ryan talk to himself for the entire time and was now knocking at his door.

“Hello, may I come in, Ryan? I heard some noises in there and decided to check on you. It’s me, Celestia.” The cautious, newly made diarch instead of monarch, opted to just use her regular name instead of the formalities of her title. Knowing the patient that laid inside that hospital bed, it would be of no use to do otherwise.

A large thump from inside the room is heard by the royal Princess. The fine mare cringes in worry.

From the other part of the wall, Ryan opted to call out and answer the cake loving solar diarch. “Ah the guest of honor herself; do not allow your servant to dissuade you, come in and make yourself at home.”

Though it was small, the Princess of Equestria smirked. This immortal pony could never get over such a colorful character; regretfully even if he was not jesting. She quickly wipes it off and turns back into her loving motherly persona and opens the door.

The sight she sees is abnormal to say the least.

There laid Ryan, the hospital patient, that would be a given. Lying down on a messy bed and broken flower vase on the floor. Yet he was pushing his finger against some imaginary object in the air, that or he went crazy. The Princess opted to go with the more believable latter.

“Would you like me to come back at a later time?” Although Celestia asked this, it was more rhetorical than an actual question. The mare knew that Ryan would only hold things off if they were important.

The estranged man pushed his finger against the air, and without using direct eye contact, nodded. “Nah it’s uh. It’s fantastic for me; wouldn’t say the same for you.” Ryan’s voice was very dissociative to the seven foot tall mare as he whispered the last part under his breath.

Taking a step through the door and calmly inspecting Ryan, Celestia’s confusion only grew as her student’s protector randomly smiled. “Are you sure? You seem very preoccupied at the moment. I may even have to report this to the medical personnel as a sign of you showing side effects.” Ryan Steele lightly coughed and for the first time during the conversation, directed his attention to his Princess in the room.

“Sorry! Sorry, uh what were you saying Princess?” Ah, there’s that usual speech of his.

Princess Celestia was pleased to finally be getting somewhere with the person in front of her despite his suspicious behavior.

The Alicorn cracked a small smile. “I shall question my dear Steele on that later but until then…”

“I am merely here to give thanks. Without you and one of Ponyville’s only guilds, this would have spelt greater danger than what originally happened.”

Celestia walked until she reached the chair that rested beside Ryan who watched intently. She was not a picky mare, and sat down despite it being a few sizes too small. “You do not have much Reservoir reserves which has always worried me. What happened during your clash with Nightmare Moon concerns me much more however.” She cranes her neck to lean over and stare directly into her student’s brother.

“The mana flow inside of your body, the one that is supposed to serve as a well for mana and ether for storage and release excess magic? It was completely destroyed, as if somepony got a sledgehammer and went into a frenzy on it. If you attempted to absorb any raw natural mana you would suffer from a magic burn so greatly there’s a chance that total combustion could occur.”

Ryan’s expression acted as if a sudden realization occurred inside himself. The Player’s mind suddenly backtracks to the final attack he pulled against Nightmare Moon, the one that forced him unconscious. He repeatedly shakes his head as if trying to get something off of him. “No… No you’re joking Celestia.” The eldest sibling of Twilight Sparkle stares at the solar diarch with genuine pleading eyes. “Please tell me that this didn’t actually happen! Please tell me that I can still use magic!”

“So much emotion, does he truly hold magic in such a high regard?”

The only alicorn in the room holds out a comforting hand, gently cupping his face. “Calm down Ryan, there is good news. For some odd reason, one that could only be described as divine intervention, there’s some oddity inside your body. One that I hope to study extensively. It’s as if magical circuitry has been implanted into your body, it’s flowing mana through your body without needing to do it consciously.” Celestia holds her other hand onto Ryan’s cheek who almost was on the verge of entering denial. “Do you not understand? Magic is flowing through you so efficiently the results could only be done through generations upon generations of selective breeding!”

Ryan felt his heart drop inside his chest. “...So, can I still do basic applications then?”

The Princess laughed and smiled, moving both of her hands back. “Ryan, you can do so much more than that. In fact that’s another reason I am here, even if the reserves are not that large and the job seems patch worked to some extent. My dear sister Luna would like to give a certain thanks to you by digging through the treasury to give you this.” Celestia lit her horn and levitated a small brown bag to Ryan who gingerly took it in his hands. “She called it a “taste of what’s to come” Luna told me not to open it and I respected that privacy.”

“I don’t know what to say, I know I’m an assho-” Ryan paused for a second and side eyed the Princess.

“Then say nothing and open it. Also, please, I’ve heard more swears than the amount of seconds you have been alive. I’m in a better mood now, after all, I did get you back for those pranks. A good scare never hurt anyone.” The cake loving royal chuckled.

Ryan thought that last sentence was false by many means but did not speak on it. A person who can’t do any sort of thing magic related would definitely be cast away. Even by their own family, even by his little Spike and Twilight.

He sighed and held the brown bag, feeling zero weight in it whatsoever. “I take back what I said about me being an asshole; there’s nothing in here.”

The mare rolls her wrist and gestures for him to open it anyways. “Trust my sister, I certainly needed to do that when I still had the chance.”

Ryan Steele grumbled in annoyance, silently protesting in the process. Little by little he came over his previous mood yet it still lingered. Even while opening this seemingly empty gift.

The deity blessed human was blessed for the second time today. Third, if you counted the information he was given about his new body, he surely didn't, which is why he’s trying so hard to forget.

“Oh, ho, ho! This was so worth breaking the sword!” The unraveled brown pouch, revealing a mace inside of it. One that was multiple times larger than the bag yet could be held inside it.

‘Alert, player (Ryan Steele) has received medium weapon “Morning Star (uncommon), requirement to wield, 30 medium weapon” from an unknown benefactor’

Medium weaponry, not too heavy and not too light. A black spiked club with a sharp point at the end, large enough to kill if you’re lucky.

He got up from his bedside, even after Celestia’s small protests and gave the mace a few swings in the air. “If your sister is going to be sending bad boys like these I’ll gladly accept ‘em.”

Ryan stops in his tracks, cogs silently turn in his empty head. The mace hits the ground with a large thud. “Who’s Luna? Celestia, you and Twi keep mentioning her name like I’m supposed to know her.”

Princess Celestia got up from her seat and levitated the morning star from the ground which evidently left a crack in the ground. “Where do you think Nightmare Moon came from? She was originally my dear sister but a nightmare Luna is no longer.”

Ryan Steele may not be the smartest person to have passed high school, it doesn’t mean he could not put an obvious two and two together. “No way! Nightmare Moon was your long lost sister? And the cartoon cliches just keep on coming.”

Celestia smiles, putting the mace in her hands and physically handing it back to Ryan Steele. “Cartoons hm? I’ve heard of them becoming more and more popular these days, I may even have to watch a few of them to know what they’re all about.” Choosing not to directly answer the given question by her dear friend.

“If you do then always bet that they’d be based on the sun goddess before me- hold on, I remembered something.” For the third time, Ryan tried inspecting the air in front of him, leaving the solar princess mildly concerned.

The mildness of this concern turns into a sensation of being weirded out by Ryan cheering as if he won an entire pot at a casino. And for the Alicorn’s first every time, she heard the human squeal in excitement .

“Ryan! Not so loud, ponies being nosy are the last thing I need. And I feel too tired to put up a silencing barrier.” The mare snorted, understanding the human in front of her was an Element worthy problem. “Ah, while it’s fresh on my mind. I assume Twilight has told you about your more permanent residence?”

The Ascended Cameo nods his head. “Mhm, I love that you gave my little siblings some fresh air from that snotty place. They need some friends who’ll keep them grounded for once.”

“She was worried for you.” Princess Celestia began. “I could only wonder why; you had no real wounds to speak of. Do you have any idea Ryan? Twilight is one to exaggerate but not when it comes to life and death.”

Ryan Steel shrugged his shoulders in response. “No clue, I only fainted because I used up so much energy. Nightmare Moon was toying with me the entire time so I didn’t even get hit.” The lie rolled off his tongue as naturally as breathing came to him.

Celestia wasn’t a foolish mare however, she didn’t believe most of the small bit from the story, the mare would let it go for now. Even if you think you show no signs of lying, they always do in the end.

“Ah, it gets better Ryan. Your new assignment is to protect each and every one of those mares that helped along the mission to defeat Nightmare Moon.”

Improv knight or not Sir Steele still saluted to show his falsified respect. “Then let me start as soon as possible Princess. I’ll go get my things.” Ryan found that he was stopped by an assortment of hovering clothing that blocked his path.

The Princess truly did have many secrets that the player knew nothing about, cards even she’d never reveal. And somehow that cheeky grin told it all. “I believe I have that covered Ryan, you will begin a bigger life here in Ponyville. One larger than you could ever imagine.” But what she didn’t know was that the Player had the very same; a facade of foolishness and idiocy that would pay off in due time.

“And I believe that life will change as a whole. Just you wait Princess, I’ll turn everything on its head using only the fruits of my labor.” Ryan looked in front of himself as he left, grinning like a madman at the items that were included.

‘Item: Nightmare Essence, requires power 10, (Rarity: Artifact)’
‘Item: Ring of Gaia, requires power 10, (Rarity: Artifact)’
‘Item: Earring of Nature, requires power 10, (Rarity: Rare)’
‘Item: Ring of Nightmare, requires power 15, (Rarity: Artifact)’
‘Item: Devil’s Coin, requires power 100 0, (Rarity: Artifact)’
‘Item: Lilith’s Scaled Skin, requires power 15, (Rarity: Very Rare)’

Author's Note

And that's the rest of this to finish the NMM Arc and focus more on Ryan's ability aspects. Also starting next chapter there will be little snippets in author notes explaining things that are unclear or answering any questions to things that seem a bit less transparent.

Chapter 8

(Perspective of view: Third Person)

“Living in a library huh? Doesn’t fit the whole slightly advanced town aspect.” Ryan thought aloud.

It was very early in the afternoon when Princess Celestia and Ryan left the hospital after the latter was discharged. Wearing a normal non-description blue jacket and black jeans, which Ryan was surprised they existed here, and the same boots he was wearing before despite the warm weather, they were still comfortable.

Celestia was right by his side standing in front of a literal tree house, acting as his motherly figure which was no different to normal behavior for the thousand year old mare. The alicorn achieved the effect of calming everyone down before riots started happening and declared that Ryan’s sister and all her friends were something called the Elements of Harmony which were the objects used against Luna’s curse.

Princess Celestia nodded. “Indeed, it takes unique accommodation to an entirely new level. It’s where the previous librarian stayed.”

“So a fire breathing dragon, an obsessive mad scientist, and one sane human all living in a tree house. This seems like the start of a mob forming.” Ryan snidely commented, the sun’s rays were getting into his eyes at this point which was quite annoying for him. “I can’t believe I never asked but how’s the No Regrets guild doing? They were all knocked completely unconscious when I stepped in.”

The mare glanced out of the corner of her eye in Ryan’s direction. “They were hospitalized, the injuries proved to range from severe to minor bruising. I called in some of the best doctors from Canterlot to save them though, it was the least I could do for some of the saviors of Equestria.”

Ryan Steele forced a smirk and patted his friend on the back. Feeling a bit of disgust leaking through his very being; perhaps some of it was bled in from Alter as well. “Right, then is this where we part ways Princess Celestia?”

“Hm, I’d suppose so. But remember to keep the details under wraps until I make a more public statement. A letter will be sent through your little brother, be ready for it” The alicorn chastity reminded him.

They share one more stare of mutual understanding between one another. Ryan waves to the Alicorn who walks off to two guards that were standing post near the edge of a chariot from the road.

The newly made immortal man shakes his head and enters his new humble abode. After all his very existence was anything but.

(Perspective of view: Ryan Steele)

“Okay Spike, I’m ready, shoot that shit inside!” I’m inside the library, holding a black burnt pan in a tennis player’s stance with soot and small burns covering my body. Spike is standing on the other edge of the kitchen as I slowly back away into the living room, his hoodie is up, covering his eyes. Between those scales I can see some anime characteristical smile threatening to appear. I taught him well in the art of taunting for him to be going to that level.

Spike holds his head down, putting both his claws into those jacket pockets of his. “If you think you can handle the heat, but you’re already outta the kitchen. Take this bro, fore!” Nice verbal comeback if I must admit. A speeding jade colored fireball exits from my little brother’s mouth and crashes towards me at a near blinding speed.

“Nice try but I’ve got your timing down to a T now, FULL COUNTER!” I take the imagery of the fireball in my mind and swing right into where I predicted it to land, resulting in a loud ‘Clank!’ which partially made use of the (Counter) skill, deflecting the fireball back to sender.

The green fireball washes over the unimpressed dragon. He inspects the tips of his claws and indeed smiles this time around. “Good job little one, you have much to learn from the way of the dragon. One baby step after another is fine enough, twenty more times and training is done.”

“A cheeky sonuvabitch eh? All this taunting really is getting to me then.” I give a salute and get back into my stance, watching Spike wipe away a small cinder on his clothing. “You got it teach, I’m gonna leave you in the dust!”

“Noponies gonna be leaving anypony in the dust!” Both of us turn towards the sound of the noise, a very angry sister is on the steps leading up stairs. “I leave you two alone for two hours and this is what you guys get up to?” Twilight’s holding a book in her left arm with a symbol on it, also carrying a small crystal light source inside her other hand.

The frying pan I was holding goes slack in my hand and falls to the floor. Spike sees this as a prime opportunity to point his claw at me. “He’s the oldest, I’m only going along because he’s basically making me.” Oh you slick piece of- okay fine, two can play at that game.

“Hey, I asked. Key word, I asked you if you wanted to Spike. If ya didn’t then you should’ve said something. Something tells me that after you kept nicking me with fireballs though I doubt you actually wanted to stop.” I defensively mentioned.

Twilight stomps her hooves down the steps and uses her magic to pinch my ear and to pinch one of Spike’s spines. “It doesn’t matter who did what at this point.” She snapped. “I’m ending it, Ryan I can’t believe you have this much energy after what happened because I sure don’t. The two of you are going to behave after this, or else you are both going to be going missing.”

The entirety of my body’s reflexes made me involuntarily gulp in fear despite my biology’s predatory nature. I rapidly nod up and down.

My scaly brother gave a shaky thumbs up. “R-right, we’ll keep it down Twi, promise.” Spike verbally answered, much to my thanks.

Our fierce Twiggles calmly sighs and stops pinching our respective body parts. “Good riddens, sometimes it feels like I’m the eldest sibling.” She makes her way back upstairs without another noise.

Spike and I look at each other, confused on what to do. “I think we should take Twi seriously this time Ryan. We were both glad to see you awake at the hospital, let's tone it down a notch since the time calls for it. Twilight is really tired because of all the new changes that’ve been made in our life.”

I raise an eyebrow, Spike’s being unusually mature for how he usually acts. “What’s gotten into you Spike? I ain’t saying you’re wrong, in most cases though you tend to take things at a carefree angle. A nature as old as time for my little bro.”

He shrugged in response, I’m praying he leaves me behind here. Being left alone with goodies galore makes for anyone to know they’re achieved. “I don’t-” He yawns mid sentence and rapidly blinks. “-really think of it like that. I pick up a thing or two from smarter people in the room. Using all that Ether and constantly pulling outside Mana in without having any Reservoir in storage to use for fireballs is a full workout by itself.”

A small frown finds its way on my face as I say nothing and watch Spike bring his hoodie down that was obscuring his features. “No need to get so sad, I saw you messing with Princess Celestia from outside, it’ll be as if nothing changed.” Spike turned around, went to the living room/library portion and pressed against the front door. “I think I’ll head out for the afternoon, there’s probably a good donut shop around here like Donut Joe’s. Hopefully make some friends or see Applejack, she was uh, nice.”

I only nodded, easily holding back a smile that could replace my false sadness. “We’ll catch up later then little bro, go out and enjoy yourself. Don’t let me hold you back, chain and ball style. Go spit your game little man.” I watch the not so little scamp go through the entrance of the library, a small bell jingles as he does.

Watching the door close behind him I stretch my limbs and pick up the pot I dropped earlier and hang it back up in the kitchen. “Time to weigh my options…” I cover my mouth after chuckling as to not alert my younger sister. “Who am I kidding? I’m obviously checking my spoils of war.”

Waving a hand in the air and searching through the list of items I have, I idly talk to myself. “I need a real agenda, also checking up on my friends is a number one priority. Or at least it would be if I knew my way around this damn place. My sense of direction is worse than someone who can’t even see.”

I pause for a moment and reach in the air, pulling out a black sludge with blue eyes covering the substance. It’s cold to the touch. As if it came out of liquid nitrogen. Weird considering the items I retrieve from the inventory are as warm as they came in, then again I did get this by defeating a boss. “I have no clue where Sweet Apple Acres is at, nor do I even know where the rest of those girls were. Building relations with locals is a necessity and I can’t appear like a shut in.” Geography classes couldn’t help me, why did I expect a sense of direction to ever come to me?

“Probably because of all the negative karma you have.” Being sassed by consciousness aside I thoughtfully hummed at what my next action would be.

“Should I-” Stopping for a moment I consider whether or not I should do this in a more secretive manner, this is the first time I’ve gotten decent loot from the system. “-yeah I should, to the basement it is.” I carefully hold the solid gelatinous black sludge in my hands and take a few steps in a random direction until I realize something.

“Crap, I’m not even sure if there is one. There’s only one thing this calls for, exploration time!” I hold the shifting black mass close to me and systematically explore the lower level, not that there’s much to it. All I can find are books, more books, a living area, the kitchen, and did I mention books? I’m in the middle of pulling books as if they’d lead to a secret area until I see a door in the stairs.

That definitely should’ve been obvious for me. “Ah, well I’m stupid now, aren’t I?” Not bothering to answer my own question, I jiggle its doorknob and it comes right open, allowing me to descend downstairs.

It reeks of mildew, you’d think the other owners would’ve taken better care of this place, the looks tell otherwise. “It’s just you and me. Nightmare essence, one of the drops from Nightmare Moon or er… Alter.” I inspect the sludge close to my eyes, holding no precautions for safety. “Tell thy secrets!”

Nothing, it was worth a shot mimicking the bosses’ speech patterns. “I wonder if you’re edible, hm. Eh, I’m done guessing, Item Description!” I use something I haven’t done in a considerable amount of time. In front of me a blue screen detailing the item’s description (self explanatory if you ask me) makes itself known.

‘Item: Nightmare Essence, requires power 10, (Rarity: Artifact)’

‘Description; A part of the parasite acknowledged as “The Nightmare” that has been removed from its main core. Non-sapient in nature, its slight telepathic nature through emotions has proven to be fairly useful in battle. Other than warding off good, its main use lies in being applied to weaponry, most Nightmare Essence has a weapon in preference to being grafted to, do so carefully!’

“Wait, is this a coincidence between the deal Alter and I made or was this a premeditated effort on Gaia and Yaldabaoth’s end? Either way this is something worth celebrating! A way to create my very own Excalibur so to speak!”

Both my hands rocket up to the ceiling with the intent to praise the partially intact parasite part, accidently hitting my knuckle on the ceiling.

Doing what any normal functioning adult would do, I make my feelings known to any unfortunate soul around to hear this shout. “SONUVA DIAMOND DOG!” I watched my total health pool go down by a mere 0.2% even if it felt like I lost that hand entirely.

“Did I really say “sonuva diamond dog?” I really do need to hang out with non-ponies.”

Between making a bunch of hissing noises from the pain, I managed to recover, even when I thought my fighting career was permanently over with. “Good thing I didn’t drop you. I theorize that I’m merely supposed to...” I found the smallest consultation in that fact, whipping out the bronze spear that failed to break during my confrontation with Nightmare Moon through the inventory. And with the grace of an elephant, smash it into the Nightmare Essence, holding zero hesitation.

A small screeching noise comes from the black gooey substance covered in eyes, said substance had a spear that penetrated straight through one of its eyes. Also managing to have all of its innumerable blue eyes dart to look at me.

“NOPE! I don’t do this demonic shit, you got it nightmare fuel.” I dropped the spear, I didn’t want to risk anything the system wasn’t gracious enough to give me. Yet something miraculous happened, the Nightmare Essence had covered that basic spear like a uh, symbiote would be the best example. And mutated the item into some giant lance instead of a spear, fully covered in a hardened black substance that I can only assume comes from the Nightmare Essence and decked out in those cat-like piercing blue eyes that are still staring at me.

“I know by all means I shouldn’t pick it up, being a literal grade A object but I can feel it calling me. True power that I could hold in an instant! Ah screw it, I’ve got nine lives, nine regenerating lives at that… Right, a boon and a curse. If I die I’ll come back good as new.” Deciding to choose mind over matter, my response to the bizarre act is to grab hold of the sizable lance.

As I do, my senses open up like nothing I’ve ever felt before. There’s a small trilling in the background, the piercing eyes finally relax and go back to staring at different parts of the basement.

“Fucking score! HA, TAKE THAT WORLD, I’M NOT CURSED AND STILL STANDING!” I jump in the air, no short amount due to the joy that courses through me.

I internally cringe, a mixture of what I could only assume was Alter’s disapproval of my childishness and the prospect of disturbing my sister. I think Twi hadn’t noticed though. She’s a tolerant gal for the most part. “Declarations against this twisted world aside, what can you do?” My brow slightly crinkles as I try waving it in the air. All the eyes swirl in place, mimicking a cartoonish dizzying effect.

One moment, I’m acting like a stupid douche, the next moment, several black tendrils are buried into my right arm from the lance’s pommel. A huge shock of knowledge transmutes throughout my entire body, as if it were burning my body from the inside. All I knew at the moment was pain, a black flash crossed my eyesight, and I was temporarily blinded by the damn thing. Everyone knows better than to jinx things like this.

Minutes later I cradle my head, attempting to go through all the knowledge I gained about the object’s functions. But twice today, fucking twice! I had bombshells of knowledge skull fucked in my head! I had to recover from the mental strain. At least I can summarize what it does though, something about shadow magic constructs. That and now it’s soul bound to me.

“Hurray, and what’s your name exactly? Item description.” The sarcasm I exuded couldn’t have been any more noticeable. No one needs a weapon bound to their very essence that can’t be disarmed from you. The crazy world I live in eh?

‘Item: Calamity Cinnabar, requires power 15, (Rarity: Artifact)’

‘Description; The results of a unholy matrimony that functions as a container for legends which is heavily repurposed due to Player: (Ryan Steele)’s Origin of Chimera, currently it holds the one of ‘Imitation Arondight’ a legendary knockoff from Lancelet’s signature lance degraded by one grade. Calamity Cinnabar’s base usage is on the principles that it steals mana upon each swing while creating pools of shadow at will that chain its target.’

“What the fuuuuuuuck?!”

My mouth gaped open. The only thing in my eyes is the all-seeing eyes that occupy the lance; all of this for one artifact leveled item. Everything I worked towards alone could be summed up to this! I don’t even need to look at the others if I’ll get these kinds of toys!

And so I went through three of the items. Surprisingly enough I did this only because of the fact that I got a gut feeling. Alter must already be putting in work for that contract, that or I feel the need to let my guard down this low. So despite my paranoia I trust her on this. By the time I did there was sweat pouring from my forehead. Each had their own effects I’d never heard of before. Meaning they didn’t originate by the source material they appeared in, just my luck.

I kept all items that’d raise questions, back to my inventory. So no Ring of Nightmare for casting fear spells on people or the newly made Calamity Cinnabar lance. Lilith’s Scaled Skin doesn’t even let me look at its description which is another bug my benefactors need to patch! Last but not least for evil items there’s the Devil’s Coin. I silently whisper ‘Item Description’ and peek at it.

‘Item: Devil’s Coin, requires power 100 0, (Rarity: Artifact)’

‘Description; Just for you Jack, your own little regret to use at your own disposal; a wonderful idea right? I gave you purpose only to take it away; so call for me at your lowest point, it couldn’t possibly get any lower could it?’

The item goes back into my inventory faster than I meant to do so. “Something tells me that ominous message correlates with the fact that the requirements on this thing were completely removed. Probably best to never use it in the first place, anyone with a sixth grade reading level would be able to tell that.”

Imagine getting some of the best loot while having the most boring mid-game progression and you aren’t allowed to use it because it looks more possessed than a haunted house. Ponies, I swear. You’d think that with the introduction of all this technology, new races, and monsters, that they’d toughen up, but suppose not.

I snap my fingers and point towards the empty space in front of me. “Status!” Who cares if I don’t need to say it aloud. It’s not a cringey anime move so that’s all I need.

The same blue themed screen pops in front of my face, showing a whopping two hours had passed in my wake.

“I really need an active watch to keep track of time.” I proposed something new to get when I go shopping.

*KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK*

I briefly flinch, even from down here I heard someone knocking at the front door. Might as well save my little sis from the trouble of getting up herself. I went up the steps and through the door inside the stairs, giving me fresh air that’s not poisoned by the scent of mildew, thank the heavens.

Opening the door without question I see three familiar faces.

A pegasus with pink hair meekly waves her hand. “Hello Ryan, we wanted to check on you and your family after all of the… Scary stuff that happened.” Fluttershy gently rubbed the side of her green sweater, that girl definitely fidgets a lot then.

Rainbow Dash held a comforting gaze for both me and her yellow friend. “I had to drag her out personally y’know? Flutters was scared. Afraid that you wouldn’t be the same when you got hurt like that.”

“I still owe ya a drink or two, right after you tell me how you got hit like that and kept going like a pro!” She added onto her previous statement.

The last one to speak was Rarity, I could tell that she had been crying when there hadn’t been a need to, always depending on who you ask though, they might say otherwise.

Rarity, the pampered unicorn, smiled. It wasn’t one of those fake ones that you could spot a mile away, instead it was a genuine one. “Fireworks Darling, that bright integration of dark and light, oh how elegant that was in comparison to your regular aura. On behalf of everypony you helped save, I thank you. And know, you are welcome to Carousel Boutique at any time.”

“Oh-ho, and here I thought that the ladies hated me, especially the one with the stick up her ass. Time to go casual and put on a show.” Playful jabs I make come to my head, insults I never mean.

Lightly smiling, I hold a hand up to gesture for them to stop. “No need ladies. I know how awesome I am, I did it for my fans that I’ve acclaimed worldwide. I can go grab my sis, Spike’s out exploring somewhere else though, a good chance he’s at Applejack’s farm at this very moment.”

Their rainbow haired companion smirks and holds out a fist. “A fellow awesome enthusiast? This has got to be fate working its magic to bring the two of us to meet.” I promptly matched her fist bump like a true bro.

“Joy… There are two airheads amongst us now.” Rarity looks between the two of us, a tired expression on her face. “Generosity is practically my middle name, thus I will provide ample patience, Celestia knows I’ll need it.” And lord knows I’m glad to see that I’m not the only type of troublemaker here.

Rainbow Dash shrugs, my guess is that she’s too used to hearing stuff like that. “Anywho, we came here to treat you. It’s ‘too early to drink’ according to Rarity and Shy, so I thought we could go to this really nice place that has a good view of the murdery death forest that tried to take us out last night.”

“It’s near my cottage so we s-should be fine. Everypony is still at work or in school, because of how early it is, it’ll be perfect to relax at.” The shy one was really proud of saying that, possibly the most umpf I heard her use but then she hung her head down, holding onto the sleeve of her sweater. “But I get it if it sounds boring.” Fluttershy said at the last second. Ah, that’s what it was, I knew someone like her, always ready to say sorry for the smallest things.

I nodded my head, making it clear that I felt no qualms against it. Knowing these three for the short amount of time that I have, that might not have the same meaning for them.

“Nah it’s fine, I could use some time to relax. I rarely got downtime in Canterlot anyways, I’d even take care of someone else’s kid if it gave me a chance to slack off and get in a quick nap. I’ll fetch Twi for you all.”

Rarity softly sighs and bows her head. “Thank you darling, we will be waiting for the two of you outside.” Manners, I never really liked em but they did help me score that part time job I got. Doubling back, I retreat back into my home and upstairs for Twiggles’ room.

The thoughts of how these new magical objects I’ve achieved surface through my mind once again. Being a quote on quote ‘champion’ for them doesn’t sit right with me.

“This one in a billion chance feels as though it could just as easily be a curse rather than a blessing. I’m the only one this has happened to, the one left alone in a world that no one else could possibly understand.” The grip I held on the wooden railing became rigid, unmoving.

But on the other hand, this is heaven sent. “There’s finally real magic at my disposal, maybe, just maybe I could break through those barriers and see Earth again. It’d be nice to show off what eight years here brought me.” I loosen my grip and keep going up the stairs, being careful not to show my worrying nature of those thoughts.

I’m greeted with an oak door. There’s no more time to waste on bad thoughts that aren’t healthy. I move my knuckles to make a speedy knock on Twilight’s room when it swings open without prompt.

Twilight is standing right in front of my knuckle. She takes a step back with those readers covering her eyes. “Woah! Ryan, what are you doing so close to my door?” She asks in a semi-high pitch tone.

This would have been a great opportunity to play a prank but I choose not to and instead get straight into it. “Our friends wanted to celebrate what happened over our victory and I wanted to oblige. That also includes you Ms. Studies a Lot.”

A red hue appears on both sides of her face. “I do not study that much.” She dutifully sighs and smiles. In the process, my unicorn sister levitates her pair of reading glasses and puts them on a desk that has four different books stacked up in a corner with one already opened in the middle of it. “A break is definitely in order. I have no idea what you were doing in the basement but it sounded strenuous the few times I came downstairs to fetch something.”

Awwww, she does think of things other than her books. “After you then dear sister.” My little purple sis snorts and travels downstairs, actively greeting our friends with zero hostility, and I make no comment on it. The five of us trek through Ponyville, spent by the three experienced ponies who’ve lived here for quite a few years pointing us to multiple land marks, nearly all of which I’ve seen before, except for the local communal laboratories (that definitely shouldn’t be a thing), and the museum that I’ll never go to. I said nothing the entire time, only making a few passing jokes that got varying reactions until we arrived at this secluded place inside the forest that was brightly shone by the sun.

Fluttershy gingerly laid a large cloth that was patterned white and red, a classic choice on her end. Rarity sets down five glass cups, an extra one being set aside, and their fast friend brings a large bottle of some bubbling liquid. One that I hope isn’t champagne, wouldn’t ever be my first pick of a beverage.

My younger sister has already sat down in a comfortable position facing the sun, her rapidly blinking eyes and comfortable smile both immensely contrast each other. Her friends and I all got comfortable on the picnic cloth next to her.

“Thank you three for doing something so welcoming for us.” Twilight’s gratitude expressed through her smile becoming a dark magenta.

They really did a good thing here, maybe this is one of the pros of living in such a closed community. “You guys have no idea how much Sparks and I are smiling inside. Back in Canterlot folks never did this type of thing.” Twilight shakes her head and rubs her temple, getting annoyed at my antics if I had to guess. “Though, I chalk it up to the fact that the industry is running rampant over there, a shame Spike isn’t here though.” I added.

Rarity waves me off and pours some of that bubbling liquid in the glass cup they’re holding and passes it to me. “It’s nothing dear, excuse me for saying this-” She stiffles back a snicker. “-but Sparks? Is that a nickname for Twilight that you have?”

Ah I was wondering when one of them would pick up on that. Rainbow Dash seems rather chill over it. Rather unbecoming of someone of our ilk.

“Yep, she’s still under my care. Her ultimate trump card, so I mess around a bit, like usual.”

Twilight rolled her eyes at me. “Ryan I’m twenty three, I could legally move to a different country if I wanted to and nopony would be able to stop me.”

“Sounds like you have got a good head on your shoulders. Like an entirely different Element of Loyalty.” Rainbow Dash complimented as I went to sip on the drink Rarity offered me. One gulp is all I need to contort my face. And worse yet Fluttershy notices, even after all the prevention on swearing and threats so far I’ll still be perceived as rude.

The pink haired pegasus tilts her head. “Ryan, do you not like it?” I hastily shake my head. Fluttershy seems to understand this. “Apple cider tends to be an acquired taste, so that’s fine, we won’t take offense to it, and I’m sure Applejack wouldn’t either.” Phew, I really thought I screwed up there for a second.

“Thank God- er do I thank Yaldabaoth and Gaia now or…?” Yet another confusion to add to the tally of weirdness in this world.

“Wait, he doesn't like apple cider? Ah c’mon can this day do anything worse to top that off?” I give Rainbow Dash a weird look after that display. Her blue finger wags back and forth from the ground. “Gotta say I am disappointed. Cider is the ichor of gods, to deny it is to deny life.” Never thought anyone could be so passionate about apple cider.

Twilight had a thoughtful look. “Ah so Applejack’s family really does supply all the apple related products in this town.” I should’ve seen that coming, Apple jack, apples, Applejack, it was right in front of my face.

Rarity sits up as she takes a sip from her own glass. “So darling while we’re here do you mind showing us how you did that little magic trick. I spent the time that passed us by asking that to myself on repeat.”

Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash both share an acknowledgement of agreement. “I never saw a bag of holding from where you were picking these things from, it was like you were Pink-” Swiftly but gently I covered Fluttershy’s muzzle in order to stop her huge mistake in the making, superstition be damned!

“Do not say that name. Names give them power, I am not strong enough, not yet.” I warned her, the only other adversary I see as a threat to my well being. Even with nine total lives my legs quake at the mere thought of here.

A purple aura swats my hand away from Fluttershy’s mouth, slightly stinging as well. “Ryan I completely understand where you are going but there are less physical ways of preventing the invocation of an anomalies name.”

I snapped my fingers. “Right, no getting handsy with people, so the complete opposite of in Canterlot.” I playfully joked, this time getting a more positive snort from my little sister..

Rarity took another sip, this time it was slow and calculated. “Dear, you still never answered my original question, could you show us that neat little trick you had done earlier?”

“Or! Show us that aura you had, it made you go twice as fast, like boom, bam, bash!” Rainbow Dash counter-suggested.

I extend my hands out to stop them. “Ladies ladies, one at a time please! I can do the thing with the inventory right now but using (Ira) out here without a purpose? That sounds like something I would suggest, which means you and I are more alike than we realized.” Cheaty hammer-spaces be damned, people wish they could have something like this. I’m probably one of the very few people who have this in the multiverse so suck it everyone else! Of course I’ll show it off.

Without further need, I pull out my less extravagant items, all excluding the seemingly cursed as all Tartarus items I got from Nightmare Moon.

“And this is the new tool I got from some mare named Luna.” I pull out my Morningstar from thin air to show it off.

Fluttershy smiled and took a sip of her apple cider as well. “You met Princess Luna? Is she not still at Canterlot?”

My little sister sighed in contempt. “Ryan, you never told me that. And you still refuse to let me study how you do that.” Twilight said.

I shrugged. “That's on a need to know basis, and that skill right there isn’t needed to be studied.” Doubly so when it applies to this world literally being puppeteered by gods and goddesses. “Anyways, are any of you interested in a story? I got this book from somewhere that’s not really important and would appreciate it if you’d take some time to read it with me.”

“I did not know that our guild base was considered to be unimportant in this circumstance.” The spontaneous voice that came from in the tree line startled us until William fucking Cobert walked out without a bruise on him.

Rainbow Dash flaps her wings up, getting into the air and in front of William, hugging him. “William, dude you recovered that fast? Actually I shouldn’t be that impressed by the leader of somepony who rivals in awesomeness.”

William’s looks were a bit scruffy yet still appeared presentable. “I was the first to recover but I was told Marax and Vanishing would follow soon after. Until then I tried to find where Ryan Steele and Twilight Sparkle were located and told you two were here.”

“It’s so great to see you William! After that display that you and your guild had showcased during the fight with Nightmare Moon you all really shined with your teamwork.” My little sister kept her happiness that she previously had.

The Adret shook his head. “We were merely doing as we are paid to do, so if that is an excusable reason enough, I heard something about a book. I would not mind taking a gander at it.”

Ponyville’s prestige fashionista gestures for William to sit next to herself who obliged. “A noble bunch as I have said so many times previously. I think it would be the least we could do to read a boring ole book.” The white unicorn said.

“Books aren’t boring!” William, Twilight, and myself all said in unison. While those were garnered reactions from the two of them, everyone instead starred in my direction.

“Dude, did you just say books aren’t boring? No offense butttttt you talk like you are straight up allergic to reading.” Okay, Rainbow Dash should’ve been the last person alive to say such a thing. Doesn’t mean she’s wrong.

Fluttershy briefly flapped her wings. Considering what her friend said I’m sure. “That’s not very nice Rainbow. I’m sure that Ryan is an avid reader.”

I shrug my shoulders after hearing her defense. “Nah she’s right, I am, I figured that I’d tell a story from this thing though if anyone were interested.”

My guild leader put a hand on his chest as he spoke. “I for one would be pleased to listen to a story told by No Regret’s newest member.”

“If the story’s interesting enough then I’m game.” Rainbow Dash indifferently admitted.

Twiggle Spiggle raised an eyebrow and floated her respective glass of apple cider to her mouth and sip it. “I haven’t gotten around to reading all the books in the library. I’d love to spend time with my big brother, no matter how obnoxious he is.”

“Romance always sweetens the deal darling, here’s to hoping this book of yours includes that as well.” Rarity added.

Smiling, I reach from thin air and retrieve the Legends of The Four Worlds and open its first page.

“All of you prepare for a story that belonged to those who acquired world-class fame and those who are only loosely remembered. Remember folks, I never was a good storyteller but when something catches my eye, I tend to do it justice.” I squint down at the pages before sitting up in a criss-crossed position, prompting everyone to adjust themselves so they’re in front of me.

“This tale is of when Gaia was an entirely separate plane of existence from the world we know now. There was someone who was very special, even more of an oddity than the mad researcher who cracked the code to magic, even stronger than the famed ‘Prince’ who controls his legion of spearmen, no, this man’s name was Yreol and he would go on to become the Mad King of Sentinel.”

Author's Note

'Weapon description: Imitation Arondight'

'A weapon meant for someone who knew no true struggles in life, another gift from the lady in the lake, one that has weakened due to its owner's lack of recognition. In its current 'form' that is held inside the container of the Calamity Cinnabar it may produce a maximum of four threads of magic as a C ranked anti-unit noble phantasm that bypasses any C-ranked magical defense in order to hold the opponent down for the perfect "fanatical" shot, though if one's Luck, strength, or agility stat is high enough the threads may be brute forced or dodged with relative ease. This is truly the "runner up's" gift compared to a true hero.'

All credit for this weapon goes to Create-A-Servant's very own BnEI15

Chapter 9

(With cheers back on the mind lets vibe!)

(Perspective of view: Third Person)

“The beginning of Gaia had led one of its first races to be but a tall tale unlike any other. A race named Vind, they had great control over the gale that ruled as one of the main elements of this world and were only thought to be myths until very recently. They held floating fortresses that were untouched by normal tainted human hands and could only be described as a sanctuary. However that changed when Carris brought down their divine structures, The Endless Sky. The Vinds were left no choice but to make newer, lesser temples into the sky that still retained beauty unmatched. And while most races would perceive them as bad omens, they brought naught but peace.” -Keepers of Sky

That is what the man named Yreol could remember about his race, told to him by the Keepers of Sky. Yet despite the legends of his people, he was a basic man.

“Yreol, what has got your head deep into thought?” The Vind took a glance upwards from his bedside and was treated to that lovely face he grew to enjoy over the past three weeks.

Sukari the Fischeran, a race known to be the guides for Vinds since the very first time they were recorded in Gaia and she was no different.

The happy Vind waved off her caution and smiled. “My head is clear, Sukari. I’m merely reminiscing on the tales I’ve been told. Are we good to set off for the guild war?” The lavender skinned man said, his natural gray hair was done in several strands that reached down to his shoulders.

His cyan companion’s eyes lit up at the readiness he showed. “We are more than good, your skills as a Sigil Knight should be more than enough and with an Illusionist such as myself backing you up there should be absolutely no problem here even as a duo.” Yreol reluctantly sighed in response to this, making Sukari shake her head in displeasure. “Also that Knight Lord armor we saved up for you is going to give you enough time to take any attack and activate those enchantments you cast on your blade. But now that you mention it, I feel as though something is missing from my pouch but that can’t be right.”

“There I go again, infecting her sense of thinking. I really should restrain myself when it comes to that.” The Vind internally told himself.

“You’re right, I’m panicking far more than I need to be. We have got this together, as you said. Friends such as us should always trust in each other.” His demeanor grew more confident and he gripped his silver longsword. “Let us set out, the clock nearly strikes two and not a second to spare.” He stood up and gleamed a bright smile.

His lady companion grinned and held onto her spell book with both arms, the blue robes she wore hung to her sides and its hood down for her hair to be left out. “That is the Yreol I have come to know. Never let anything stop you from achieving greatness, even me.”

(Perspective of view: Ryan Steele)

“Woah woah woah, what does this have to do with Equestria?” Rainbow Dash suddenly cut in as I sat criss crossed, interrupting my read aloud.

Twilight face palmed at her friend’s questionable knowledge of the subject at hand and genuinely? I was just mad my voice was interrupted, I do love the sound of perfection after all.

“Rainbow, this is one of the worlds that came into ours! How could that not be a part of Equestria?” The egg head settled for something marginally tamer than her original grant of pointing out her daftness.

William sighed and opened a palm in the blue Pegasus’ direction. “I very much must concur; Rainbow Dash you understand that to every good book about a legend, another is lost. You may know more about your original world’s legends than I do, however with No Regrets hosting what used to be a native… Well I am sure you can conclude the rest.”

The speedy Pegasus moaned with the agony of a thousand years of embarrassment. “Okay okay for Celestia’s sake I get it! You know at least Rarity was subtler about whenever I was being insensitive.”

“You were doing that on purpose? Why am I not surprised by this?” Rarity took a sombered sip of her apple cider and immediately refilled the glass.

“No use in letting them argue without gaining entertainment from it. At first it was funny but their wording suggests this is gonna be an every other day thing.” I silently think to myself.

I snap my fingers to get everyone’s attention, just as Rainbow Dash and Rarity were on the verge of probable name calling judging by how Fluttershy opted to hide behind her mane. “Alright I’ll nip this in the bud!” I barked out; yeah I was still pissed about only being able to use the Cinnabar in secret.

Everyone looked at me as if I was the one in the wrong, though in some ways I’d suppose that I was. It’s unfair to take out your anger on comrades like that.

I straighten out my body and tone my voice down. “Unless you two want to cat fight I at least want to make decent progress on this book before we all inevitably forget about it. I at least try to enjoy my hobbies of reading and kicking ass. Though I do apologize for yelling so loudly, that was not my intention.”

Instead of accepting the apology, everyone only stared at me, Twilight and William in particular looking away from me in some sort of guilty expression whatever that meant for me.

What was even more of a surprise was that Fluttershy was the first to say something. “It’s fine, please just keep reading. I was enjoying it.” And what’s weird is that she appeared genuine. I had barely talked about myself in a positive manner and yet I already had her full attention by just reading a book.

Rainbow had a semi-reluctant look on her face. “Normally I don’t read all that often-”

“We can tell darling.” Rarity butted in.

“Ms. Rarity” William lightly chastised, only garnering a giggle from the offender.

The blue Pegasus shot her marshmallow of a friend a glare. “-That often” She fiercely repeated. “So I’m not prone to enjoying other’s stories. So even I have to admit when somepony has good storytelling skills. From one adventure aficionado to the next.”

For the briefest of moments I thought I’d say or do something but it felt as though some outside force was stopping me which only gave me the time to think about what my next action would be. Did it really matter though? This was a friend, I’m sure they wouldn’t be hung up about-.

No, that was the wrong way to think about things. Curse my relatively youthful immortal body. I’m starting to lose my touch here when it comes to understanding people!

“This must be Alter giving me the best course of action through self-indulgent inner monologuing… That was a mouthful to say even in my head. Maybe something changed her attitude over the time I’ve been out of commission? I could’ve sworn I had her figured out by what she was doing during that oh-so fateful night.”

“No problem?” It came out more as if it were a question than an answer. I tend to forget that people aren’t as self-centered as I am.

I formed a smile I didn’t know I had and purposely kept my eyes on the opened page of the book. “You aren’t so bad yourself, about a 5.5 outta 10 in terms of being a functioning creature.” My backhanded compliment instantly got me a hard glare being directed by none other than my younger sister that I could see from the corner of my eye.

And whether or not Rainbow Dash was giving me any telltale signs, I wasn’t about to tell from just the glance I got from peaking upwards. The mare only crossed her arms and cockily grinned, that could only mean the best from either worlds. Truly the female of any species is the scariest there is.

(Perspective of view: Third Person)

Yreol was off put by the last bit, they’d never run into any true troubles before and even after they got to know each other. And if he was to be known world-wide then it’d be with his closest and only friend. Nonetheless both friends exited from Wayside Inn, a very famous place for travelers who wanted to stay outside of Sentinel. Although that would be the place they were headed to as of now.

He couldn’t help but gaze around the scenery as he traversed the path with Sukari. Wayside Inn had been built on wonderful greenery that no doubt extended from the reaches of the outside of this place, the trip to Sentinel though? Sand, everywhere the slightly experienced knight looked there was sand covering some surface of grass that never seemed to wilt.

The sounds of his boots stomping against the grass soon became the sound of stone instead as they reached Cardinal Crossing, the bridge used as a gap to close in between the steady unconducted conclusion of sand, dirt, and the large lake that surrounds the place, to Sentinel.

Everyone at some point has dreamt of arriving here and doing some gran act that would result in notoriety or public positivity. Sukari and Yreol were no exceptions to this rule. So when they heard that they’d be participating in this year’s guild war for the specially catered prize that was always produced in each consecutive year, they jumped at the opportunity.

Only a few paces to a certainly life changing destination the two of them had very similar yet different things going on inside their minds.

The Fischeran held up her head, her somewhat brash posture stood out in comparison to what a normal mage would have. “Will he freeze up again as when I first found him? Are my illusions going to be good enough to back us up for any potential failures, wait am I seriously asking that…?”

“Do I really deserve to be Sukari’s sword?” Yreol internally questioned as his head was hung down. “Could it be a possibility that my instructor sought me as a fluke instead of a prodigy?” His face hardened at his own despair.

“Who am I kidding, I’ve got this no matter what!/Doesn’t matter, we’ll get through it together!”

Yreol sheepishly smiled at Sukari after accidentally saying his declaration of eternal teamwork aloud which coincidentally Sukari said something of a similar nature. “Are you nervous too?” He asked.

His partner nodded her head as she opened her red tome and flickered through the pages. One that was unassuming, having no special appearance on it and the same applied to its pages. “Mhm, who wouldn’t be? Something in my heart is telling me that we need to wake up from this foolish dream we are trying to live.” They were only a few steps away from Sentinel's entrance, encroaching on two armed guards. Yreol felt his heart drop, Sukari was going to give up on him just as he expected. “And another part is telling me that this is the first step to rediscovering a new edict catered to magic! The lost one dedicated to healing instead of harming.” Sukari ended her stride with a twirl until she was face to face with the sentries that stood guard.

“And I believe that these two are proof enough for our visit.” She held out a hand that was empty then moved her tome above the opened palm. The transition was seamless as two golden cards appeared in the previous unoccupied appendage.

One of the guards with the face covering on their helmet got a closer look of it. “A strange one aren’t you? Your people normally don’t have business inside the city. This all seems legitimate and I am not one to be as ignorant as to give you a hard time.” The unidentifiable guard hands the two cards back to Sukari, his metal gloves being careful not to damage the material. The other guard who, as Yreol could tell, was a Haseldan, this was definitely a normal occupation for them. But he was certainly suspicious of the strange duo. Fischeran and Vinds were certainly rare and nearly never came out their hiding areas or at least that is what the likes of him are probably told.

Yreol was no stranger to this sort of treatment, when you are new to the experience of the outside world you, it’s in basic human nature to be fearful of what you cannot understand. The second guard’s posture was a telltale sign that also applied to him as well. It was sloppy and his armor was clearly what a standard town guard wore despite the fact that Sentinel’s city guards could wear whatever they desired. And the spear, most would think of it as a good idea but any who want to attack someone in Sentinel definitely could close the gap of a spear against someone so green.

“So why am I unafraid of others different from me, what makes someone exceptional to others?” The Vind quizzed himself only to receive zero response.

The second, more inexperienced stepped out, his grip on the spear he held was too tight and heavy to be professional. “Sir, are you sure? You should not put it past them to be smuggling something through or even using Witchcraft to tilt this year’s guild wars into different favor.”

“Jones, why in the world would they come through the main gate if they could even have an inch of Witchcraft affinity inside them. That’s among one of the closest things to reality warping that exists.” The siege armored worthy guard’s piercing gaze shot to the one apparently named Jones. “That comment alone was dishonorable enough to Sentinel’s reputation.”

The Haseldan grit his teeth, his rage almost made it seem like he was ready to lunge at Yreol and Sukari, killing intent radiated off of him but restrained himself in front of his superior.

“Your services have been noticed, fine gentlemen, have a Gaia blessed day.” Sukari sarcastically said, mostly pointed towards the rudder guard of the two. “Come along dear Sigil Knight Yreol, we have war to prepare for.”

Said Sigil Knight in question wondered what she could have possibly met as they made their way inside the sandy city. A complete and utterly bustling place with several roads that intertwined more than a spider's web, people gathering outside all headed in similar directions towards a giant coliseum. Only a few outliers were to this, those being covered in shrouds. “Preparations were achieved well before this were they not?” He uneasily countered.

Sukari laughed and wrapped an arm around Yreol. “Baby steps my friend. This right now is where we get some supplies as if it were needed yesterday, because it’s time for us to walk.” After saying that she spent no hesitation walking, as she said she would.

Her companion rarely questioned her methods, even now he walked immediately after hearing the command for all but thirty seconds of aimless wandering in between the roads of crowds headed at a singularity he had to speak up. Yreol did not have the faintest idea of why he would be subjected to this seemingly random act. “Why are we even doing this? This is no better than circling a single point as if it were guard duty.”

Sukari did not even turn to face her friend's question. “There are many things you will come to understand while around me Yreol. New things we will uncover together. An illusionist such as myself cannot give that information out as of now, after all a magician never reveals their secret.”

“I’ve kept us alive thus far when you forgot to properly dispose of the leftover food and the Flesh Hounds came for us. In the end you’ll have to trust my judgment, as you always have.” The Fischeran pulled up her robe’s cowl and kept her head up. “Face it, I know everything there is to know and I’m teaching you the ropes. If I were you? I’d be glad to have someone like me on their team. I also know that I’m glad to have-” She points a finger directly atop Yreol’s nose in a spontaneous moment, a small rosy blush appears through his purple skin. “-you. You’re my one and only Yreol.”

To hear that he of all people is someone’s “one and only” can’t help but make someone feel warm and fuzzy on the inside. “This is another reason to trudge further.” He thought. “To stay as her number one.” That settled it for him, if she wanted the two of them to wander then he would do so-

“You two doing some… Late shopping?”

Yreol nearly jumped out of his skin at the sudden voice that came out of nowhere. In a trained motion he drew his sword and pointed it at whatever adversary was behind them. And to say the least he was confused at the sight.

A person of indescribable gender was what he was met with, their face is a complete blur. It was static, distorted like a camera that took a picture near a strong magnetic material. And the voice! That voice can only be described as a muted person, neither male nor female.

“Who are you?” Sukari instantly questioned, some hostility overlapping with the majority of curiosity.

The strange being performed a small curtsy and presented themselves in a carefree tone “Most call me Odysseus, nice to meet the two of you in person. Especially you Sukari, considering your past and all.”

Cautiously, the Sigil Knight lowered his blade, he wouldn’t want to be charged with threatening civilians after all.

A reactional glare shoots out to Odysseus, a primal and automatic-like in wholeness. The young Illusionist knew something was amidst as soon as the crowds started thinning into an eventual nothing around the same time this thing showed up.

“Yreol let’s go now.” His partner was ready to bolt, informally commanding her friend to do the very same.

When Yreol was about to respond for Sukari’s demand the cloaked figure gave a welcoming chuckle.

“No need, I am not one to reveal secrets unless wholly necessary. I only wish to help you dear travelers.” Odysseus told them once more. “What’s more, I was previously planning to sell this item for a reasonable price but you two may have this for free.” The strange entity dug within a small pouch beside them, not even big enough to hold more than a fistfull of coins. Despite this the item they pulled out of said bag was all the more worth it.

“You… You’re giving us bombs?” Sukari watched the thing swat a wave of magic to the bundle of strangely crafted septagon shaped explosives, hovering them into her hands who carefully held onto them.

The Sigil Knight in training weakly turnt his head in confusion. “T-thank you?” He whispered out.

Odysseus shook their head. “You’re very welcome and these are not just any plain-old bombs, what do you take me for missy? No, these here are in a different league than some simplistic sticks of dynamite.” They took a gray finger and pointed out the lack of fuse on the weirdly shaped bombs. “What your friend is holding onto are pure contact explosives, able to explode once thrown with sufficient force. And the secondary effect is the explosion itself, depending on how much raw mana you force into it the explosion could potentially destroy a decent chunk of land, on par with a nicely charged fireball.”

A red glint could have been seen from Sukari’s glare if one paid close enough attention before she dashed up to Odysseus in a trained fashion that Yreol had only witnessed so few times before. She was always full of surprises.

“Cut the bullshit, what’s your endgame here?” She sharply interrogated. “The moment you say anything funny I’ll have you looking worse than an undead shrieker.”

Yreol was finally about to overturn on his own breaking point. “S-Sukari you can’t simply threaten them, there’s a process to this and the way-”

“Actually Yreol I think it would be best for the two of us to discuss matters in private. After all, I do not know your friend’s definition of “funny” and I’d best not slip up around you.” Odysseus soundly advised although Yreol had no idea what any of this could have possibly been about.

“They’re right… I’ll be back Yreol but in sight, if anything happens then get behind me. For now you need to stay inside of this.” Sukari whispered a small incantation and a large translucent shield appeared all around Yreol. This was his second time seeing it in person as well. The (Globus) spell that could basically set certain criteria for who could and couldn’t pass through it, most notably those in the evil category but sometimes it was more than that.

“Please whatever is going on, be safe Sukari and if you aren’t back in ten minutes I will come looking.” Yreol promised her who only nodded in agreement.

The person and entity both decided it would be best to go back to the farthest corner of this road’s block to converse, leaving Yreol holding five strangely made bombs in his hands.

“How did they know each other?” That was the single most rampant question twisting inside his head but he knew this wasn’t the case. Sukari didn’t actually clue in on personally knowing who this Odysseus character was so then the better question should be ‘how does he know her?’ and that’s when Yreol came to a loss how was he supposed to piece this together when they met out of the blue not-so long ago?

“You caught yourself in such a doozy, mind if I give you a helping hand?” That one simple sentence sparked their friendship that begun two months ago. Life could never have been the same. He was foolish to think that a Vind such as himself could take on some rogue golems made by a prodigy practitioner mage even if they were young. It had to have been fate that Sukari came to save him right before the final blow was struck to himself.

Yreol shook his head, disappointed that he’d even think of doubting his… Very best friend. “Even when she was about to die, even when she was presented with the opportunity to learn more from Master Illusionists, even when presented with the opportunity to join the most prestigious guild known to mankind, she still chose me… Still chose to protect me even when I am barely educated on the world. Dammit Yreol, if Sukari heard these thoughts then she would be disgusted by you.” The man brought out his blade in order, composing himself for his friend’s arrival.

He would become the one to protect her from Howlers and Gorpigs alike, rogue mages, Rocs, Harpies, Gryphons, Elementals, Demons, and even Dragons. That is the only way he knows how to repay such a great debt that he owes his ‘partner in crime’ as she’d say.

A voice concludes Yreol’s resolution as he pulls himself together. “It is fine, you can put the weapon down. I am sure that Odysseus fellow will no longer be bothering either of us for moons to come. We can keep the explosives too, they will serve more as boons to utilize in the upcoming guild war.”

“Good Solan you scared the heavens out of me because of that performance!” Yreol shouted at Sukari as she walked behind him, soon the spell that was raised as protection, dissipated into thin air.

The ever cautious Fischeran sighed. “Yreol I owe you an apology. I lost my cool in the first few moments of meeting Odysseus, I was afraid that decision making of the past would come to bite us in the future and that stopped me from making a choice.” Sukari intricately put it.

“Sukari, why?” Yreol moved over, his greaves that covered his hands touched his friend’s cheek who only leaned into his embrace. “The reason we do this together is so that we can cover for each other’s mistakes. Otherwise why do we risk it all? I know it sounds silly but I believe by Solan’s grace we’ve come to meet each other so that we could make ourselves known across Gaia. And if ifwe never achieve that goal then know I’ll always be right by your side because your gratitude is the only thing I’ll ever need to hold onto.”

No words were exchanged, and Yreol did not question why Sukari suddenly leaned further to wrap her arms around him, quietly sniffling. They held each other for what felt like an eternity’s eternity, as with all good things however the hug was eventually broken up. Yreol only saw his partner wipe at her eyes until she smiled again.

“Yreol you always have a way to speak to me whenever I am at my most vulnerable even when the only thing you want to see is my smile. It amazes me because of how oblivious you can be sometimes.” Sukari stared up at the sky, and widened her eyes. “Dammit, I’ve made us late! C’mon Yreol we have no time to lose!”

The Sigil Knight was used to this, breaking out in a dead sprint. Whenever the two of them were together they’d always go off script. As always it feels amazing to feel the cold breeze wrap around their faces, as if still little children playing amongst each other, the two ran and ran. Leaping, ducking, and dodging surprised onlookers who were finally at the line for this medium sized stadium that would host this year’s Guild War. The two slammed their Guild Badges down on the receptionist’s desk and sprint by without a care in the world, entering towards a better future.

Author's Note

'Function Description: Reading'

'Reading certain books as a (Player) can help yield certain results such as status increases, learning new skills, getting new mantras, or activate certain events that would otherwise remain hidden or obstructed from them by normal means, something so minimalistic can always gather higher results even during times of danger.'

Chapter 10

Perspective of View: Third Person

Life certainly was refreshing whenever it involved the two together. For moments such as these however, Yreol would slightly disagree. Currently the two of them were being reprimanded for being so late instead of coming in early which was a mistake made on Sukari’s behalf. Inevitably they’d gotten off by a simple slap on the wrist and brought to the waiting room for further instructions.

“I cannot believe it. Here I am, about to compete against several of the strongest guilds in all of Gaia.” Yreol mentally reiterated to himself as he took a gander at his very last place before he’d be brought into the maw of competition.

Surrounded by the beautiful orange decor that melded so greatly amongst the gold, the two contestants patiently waited inside their personal waiting area. From what Yreol could remember there shall be four groups, his own included, all in pairs of twos which added up to eight contestants each. Meaning that potentially he’d be going against six people along with Sukari, however unlikely the possibility were to be.

On his right was Sukari, his friend and Illusionist who he noticed practicing a few spells in quick succession on a smaller scale than what could have possibly brought damage to the building they were temporarily brought to.

Then a series of knocks echo from the door, making the Sigil Knight’s head perk up and placing his Sigil Helmet on in preparation for what’s to come. “In a moment!” He said from inside his Sigil Helmet. A piece of armor standardly given to most who prove that they are true Sigil Knight material and have potential for becoming Sigil Knight Commanders. Three metallic wings decorate both sides of the silver helmet as a declaration of this.

The Vind got up from sharpening his blade and opened the door. In front of him was a Rigan the very same who escorted them to the room they currently resided in, a race with ash colored skin and this one had golden eyes, his hair being of a dark brown variety. His most defining trait was the suit and tie he wore. Normally Rigan’s high affinity for mana could easily get them professional jobs such as the one he had right now, or at least that’s what Yreol assumed.

“I’m correct in thinking that the two of you are ready to receive instructions and proceed further with this year’s annual Guild War?” He rhetorically asked. Sukari was already in the midst of closing her spell book and readying the small bag on her waist.

Yreol nodded, he had some familiarity with the man from their brief previous interaction. “That’s right Sullivan, please, explain this year’s Guild War rules to us so that we may proceed.” The man said his practiced question in the utmost assuredness.

Sullivan straightened his time and looked at the two. “Hm… This is the fiftieth annual Guild War and with each year there are newer or revised rules. This year is simple, as soon as you enter the war’s groundings then all weaponry is instantly dulled, lethality is not allowed unless it is in the face of self defense because lethality was brought to you first. The last team standing wins and at any time you can verbally mention that you conceded and will be picked up by a team, any questions?”

“None sir.” Sukari replied before Yreol could.

The man pulled out a pair of black blindfolds from his dress pant’s pocket. “Good, wear these blindfolds and allow yourself to be directed by me, common procedure.” Yreol couldn’t remember hearing anything about this part. His unsure gaze peered over at his partner who was already taking a blindfold to wrap around her eyes, blinding herself.

Yreol shrugs and puts them on as well, instantly feeling a hand wrapping around his own, guiding him through a place he can no longer see. Noticeably the air gets damper and more humid until he cannot feel a hand guiding him any longer, the man’s footsteps were now silent.

“Sullivan?” Yreol called for the man but no reply came and so he took off his blindfold in thought that this might help him, he was very wrong.

Somehow he was displaced inside of a desert along with Sukari. There was little to no indication of this happening to either one of them at the time, this was definitely new.

It was at this moment where Yreol started panicking, examining all the details around the area to see if there were any clues to be dropped even while Sukari was only brushing off her robes and pulling her hood up. “Was it spacial magic, some sort of newly developed technology that’s been kept secret, or maybe some high speed movement my brain couldn’t have possibly kept up-”

Sukari was unusually calmed, as if she knew what was going to occur at the very beginning. “Knock it off Yreol and take a peek up there.” She pointed her index finger upwards, the one direction the rookie did not look at.

And wow the only word Yreol could describe this in was pure ‘fiction.’ Up above them was some sort of vibrant purple projection in the sunny yet harsh sky that revealed him. The current King of Sentinel, one of the largest countries of Gaia to have ever existed.

Although the colors were tinted to be purple, deep down Yreol knew his description by heart. Red skin, orange eyes, and brown hair. A true Dzin, a race famed for being able to peer into the future, one of the oldest and wisest to be.

“Welcome and congratulations to you all newest contestants of Sentinel’s annual fiftieth Guild War. I am the host Orpheus Zarof and I wish you all a wonderful time, truly we have desired to have a more diversified cast this year and this has brought us to you all. We purposely did not allow you to meet each other so as to not give an edge over one another. Though I will say this could be anyone’s game as far as I’m concerned.”

A brief chuckle is heard, almost as if he did not even believe that and said it for pure musement. “This year’s event obviously takes place in a desert-like setting, but worry not for there will be excitement to be brought to you all. Now then, as per stated of the rules, killing is allowed unless your enemies verbally or nonverbally admit defeat which they will then be teleported out as per our mages. And with that being said let's have a great Guild War this year, fight your very hardest and become the very best you know you can be.” And just like that, the hologram cut out, leaving them stranded.

(Perspective of view: Ryan Steele)

“Why are Guild Wars done in the first place?” I’m jolsutled out of my narration only to see Fluttershy being the one to interrupt me.

I open up my mouth to speak but close it as I notice the look William passes me and give him a nod of affirmation.

“Thank you Ryan Steele.” He says with no short amount of gratitude and teeters his gaze over to the mare in question.

“You see Fluttershy, the process of a Guild War is very important as stated in the story. The entire point of it is to allow some guilds to take the spotlight and shine brighter than the big names.” William’s face cracks a wryly smile, he appears to be day dreaming. “Fame and recognition like that is an excellent way to get funding for better gear or to allow those who have had students in the past to come out of retirement and have those who have claimed victory a way to learn new skills.”

Twilight points up a finger to interject. “There’s also the cultural segment. It’s said that the gods and goddesses would pick champions from what used to be called “Houses” in the earliest days which would just be established by making a bond with the world itself, Gaia,” I flinched upon hearing the name of a deity that’s been helping me spoken aloud but Twilight continues as if I never did. “And then being bestowed a ring to indoctrinate others into the house if their conviction is held true.”

“That sounds a lot like… No, I need to ask first to verify.” I clear my throat to smoothly enter the conversation.

“Hey Twi, was there ever a name for what the ‘ye olden days’ version was called? Or was that supposedly ‘lost in time… time… time…’” I goofily add a fake echoed noise from my mouth as I repeat the last word, if only to brighten my own mood.

My sister did not actually mind, which was a rare occurrence for me. “Actually yes, there is. I think it went by something along the lines of “Conquest” which was a name that fit what it implies. What did Princess Celestia not make you study on that too or did you skip that section like you did for, oh I don’t know, magic usage, Arts, and basic survival skills.” And to that I did a noncommittal shrug, I admit to no incriminating evidence of any kind.

My sister only sighed as she placed a hand underneath her chin. “It was a usual six on six battle royale that took place in a pocket dimension layered on top of Gaia herself and it would be spanned nearly across that entire world in several parts that was meant to take up to a week to finish due to how much smaller it was compared to an actual Equus. But the reasoning for why is very vague.”

I feel myself mentally gripping at the end of my hair. “That confirms my suspicions, Conquest did exist at some point but was taken away, yet another thing to ask Gaia.”

“Was it to make sure she could be protected whenever threats would come her way?” All of us, myself included, looked at Fluttershy who was where the voice came from, anxiously twirling a bit of her mane under the sudden increase of eyes on her. “B-Because if she did not want her gifts to be wasted then it would only make sense to put her inhabitants to the test for mock-natural selection.” She finished.

Rarity was in the midst of refilling her Apple Cider, yuck, when she held a non-shocked look of utter understanding. In fact, Rainbow Dash was the only one who was openly shocked by this information and even that was morphing into a different emotion. “I see your Drudic understanding is coming to bare fruition my dear.”

“Thank you Rarity.” The butter colored mare gratuitously accepted. “But it’s a work in progress so far. I’m not even sure if what I said was accurate.”

The blue Pegasus- no no, Rainbow Dash for the first time I’ve ever seen her she seemed at a loss for words. It truly is funny what you can notice when other people are busy talking amongst themselves, what you can take advantage of.

“Actually that is close enough to my own theory though minus the protecting planet tidbit.” My guild leader not-so shyly interrupted. “To my understanding gods and goddesses are always expecting of their followers to come into three roles, pawns, priests, and those they dictate as champions or their ‘chosen ones’ to garner benefit.”

William appeared to be impressed, mainly directed to Fluttershy but there was something underlining meant for someone else. “Where did you come up with the circumstances for a theory such as that? Rarity mentioned something about Drudic studying just now and judging by your friend’s reaction this comes as a surprise to them as well does it not?”

Before Fluttershy could get a word out, my genius of a sister began talking before she could. “Fluttershy mentioned that she was studying Druidcraft in her spare time. And from what she’s told me she’s quite proficient in it. Better than a few ponies I know back in Canterlot, we merely shared a common interest that I dabble in every now and again.”

“F-Fluttershy, you never told me this!” Rainbow Dash’s muzzle was scrunched up in a near hurt expressiveness. “How come I’m only hearing this now?” Fluttershy on the other hand was confused by this.

“Miscommunication, the bane of all friendships male and female alike. How delicious it is to hear-” I raise my eyebrow in confusion, a weird pressure builds up inside my mind as if it were making itself a home. It’s cold, nearly freezing in fact but that couldn’t compare to how it’s making me feel. “Warmth? No no, this is pleasurable.”

Rapidly and purposely I shake my head of those thoughts, it must be Alter building something inside my mindscape. And if not then they are to take care of it the next time I sleep as per say the contract. Therefore I have absolutely nothing to concern myself about.

Rarity gave her longtime friend a well deserved stare of dejectedness but placed her attention on me once she saw Fluttershy staring at me with a look of worry, in fact everyone was for, what the third time? I should stop accumulating so many stares at once and gain some leadership skills from Alter, after all if she was living off of this supposed Princess for some time then she’d-

“Are you okay Ryan? You’ve been in and out of the conversation since we started.” Fluttershy meekly told me. “This conversation hasn’t been the most engaging to somepony like you, I hope we haven’t been boring you.”

Immediately my hands shot out defensively, dropping the book I was holding as a consequence of my recklessness. “I would never be that disrespectful as to not pay attention, double so to those who have my respect.” I quickly covered, and honestly meant it as well.

“Then it is as I thought, that night still plagues you does it not?” Said William with a somber attitude, leaving it more as an answer rather than a question. “I spoke to your sister when you were still in a comatose state. You are not a fighter Ryan Steele, you have not been trained to take a life before. You were only taught to protect your sister as any eldest sibling would.”

The previously chided mare appears commiserative. “Dude I’ve been trying to forget about what happened too.” Rainbow Dash sympathetically added. “That’s the thing though, it hasn’t been working. When we all saw you die that was it, we thought you were gone for good but even when you weren’t it still got to me. So if you need to talk about it then we’re all open ears.”

I can’t help but heave aloud, what a fucking joke. “It wouldn’t be a lie to say that it is but dammit I hate feeling so weak because of that. What that accursed witch disguising herself as a solar princess did to me was unforgivable, what her sister did to me though. No matter how much I try to stop thinking about it.”

My fingers curl into fists, clenching my already pale skin even whiter than it was before. Almost as if I was blinded in a storm of vengeful wights, everything is darker than it was before. “If my captor is the one who manipulates the mind then I can only imagine the darker one manipulates the flesh. I can still taste that iron in my mouth, choking on my own blood after being gutted like a fish or scared vermin.”

Everything is swirling in a rage- no, that same FRENZY I was in with Nightmare Moon. My legs are weak, they’re quivering in some sort of fear that I wouldn’t know how to put my finger on. “Absolutely pitiful, I don’t know how I could ever be desirable for any task if I’m broken.” I’m trying to navigate what’s inside my head and yet it’s pounding all around me like walls being undone, and then there’s that second feeling.

“Alter… Alter, help me you backstabbing son of a bitch, I know you can hear me! I won’t beg for help you reverent leech of a-” Two arms wrap around my body, then another pair, and another and another until there’s five bodies all piled around me in a near crushing me in pressure.

Every single cell inside me screams to put a hand into my inventory and take out whatever is threatening me and another tells me to sit and wait for just a little while longer. “What are they doing- oh, a hug. I can’t remember the last time I got such a large one from people I cared about, not since Shining Armor left for his journey to become a guard.” A humorless chuckle slips from my lips. “Something all but guaranteed being another protector for the crown and her protege, two birds one stone.”

Wet droplets trickled down on my shirt; warmth but sadness as well. The pressure inside my head starts cracking. “Sobering thoughts that aren’t unwelcomed? That’s a rarity in a half.” A fragile mind. “I wish more people became realists, but why can’t I move my hands?” Nearing its end. “And why is someone shaking me back and forth?” I turn my head and see that it’s Twilight. “Oh that makes sense, I see her mouth moving but she isn’t saying anything.” Another false person of knowledge. “In fact my sister isn’t even looking at me, is there something behind me? It’s getting so hard to see now, everything has become so foggy.”

Why?

“Why am I thinking all of this in the first place? Ever since I came to this town my ability to mask my emotions has disappeared. I've started slipping, instantly making friends, accomplishments one could only describe as a miracle, and backing from god-like beings… Why? Could I have misunderstood what my (Charisma) stat accomplishes? No, that's not how that works, it shouldn't be how it works. Why? Is it my friends getting in the way? Foolish of me to consider that, if friends are the problem then I would have known sooner. Why? Because there’s something holding me back…?”

And then it all goes dark.

Falling and falling deeper into my psyche as if it were dragging me in an estranged oasis.

“I’m back here.” I look around and see nothing but the foggy streets of London, or at least how my mind perceives it again. Just as when Alter and I met.

Try as I might I don’t avoid pulling my gaze up, my action being rewarded with a heavily darkened moon, near blood red. “A lunar eclipse, how sanctioned that is.”

“It is meant to represent us after all.” A voice calls out, one that’s sickeningly familiar.

I see Nightmare Moon and Princess Celestia right in front of me, both of them holding condescending grins of their own nature. I’m not sure what to make of it, two beings, two things of what I fear the most. There’s so much weighted burden inside of my heart, is this what it’s like for the heroes of their own story to be crushed by dread?

“This all cannot be probability, am I right? Two figments inside my mind, representing terror.” My mouth goes dry as Nightmare Moon crosses her arm with an approving glare whilst her devilish sister leaves her hands idle, sizing me up as always. “My behaviors have been off ever since I stepped foot in this anathematized town! I’ve been far too expressive, caring more than I should, and it’s all because of you two isn’t it?”

Princess Celestia flares her wings, albeit slightly but the message of ‘I’m the one who will be in control’ is radiating off of that single action. “It has had nothing to do with us my dear Ryan. You know I for one care greatly about you like nopony ever has.” The witch tries to use a comforting tone, and the worst part? It always works.

“We assume what our dearest sister meant is that thoust's internal problems stem from thyself. We are merely present to aid in thee’s progression.” The malevolent Alicorn clarifies. And this is all too funny for me. I can't help except burst out with laughter.

“M-My internal problems?! Oh hehehehe HAAHAHAHAHAAHAHAA! Phew, that was the best laugh I’ve had all year.” I hold my hair and briefly slick it backwards, the combination of moon and sunlight bathing my body in its nauseating radiance. “The way that was presented you nearly had me for a second, thinking that this was all my fault somehow.”

As if it were some twisted pull of fate; the duality of what I repress and loathe are looking down on me. And all I can notice is their piercing gazes, Princess Celestia’s motherly aura to it only serving to-

“That, that right there.” Princess Celestia halts my notions in a caringly manner, all fake. “My dear Ryan, why do you insist on my full title when I have told you oh-so many times to call me Celestia. It’s something a more ponies could learn from and you would set that example for them. Would you not?”

“As if you don’t know in the first place. If you wish to play foolish then I can do the same.” I bitterly thought to myself.

I blatantly play the fool and tilt my head in confusion. “Was it not you who told me I should respect those in authority? This is my way of doing so.”

The mare narrowed her eyes, staring me down like some sort of experiment. “Horse apples! I know the titles you call me inside your head, ‘Solar tyrant, witch, unforgiving empress’ I am not a fool Ryan I know what you think of during those sparse moments of interaction.” Princess Celestia sighs and- was that a sniffle? “Do you truly hate me that much even through all I’ve done for you?”

How dare she even try to turn this on me. “This has to be some sort of insanity to even try to reason with you, it has to be.” I bury my hands into my face, unwilling to view either of them.

“And what of us? Are we to be a scapegoat for all of thy’s actions?” I hear the metallic stomps echo on the cobblestone road, inching towards me. “Thou pins blame to our sister, fine, but do not run away as if thou were a foa-”

My head snaps back upwards, my eyes seething with an unprecedented rage. “You dare act as if I am running away?!” My violet tired eyes pierce through the Nightmare’s own. She takes a single step back. Good. “Not all of us are born with the power of might, not all of us can snap our fingers and fix everything with brute strength you fucking asshole! So yeah maybe I am running away but wouldn’t you in the face of your executioner.” The gaze then travels to Princess Celestia. “Or your warden, the one that I fear…” I darkly muttered, then it finally hit me like a bullet train and it seems the conclusion hasn’t only registered to me.

“That’s the real answer isn’t it? Fear.” I start maniacally grinning. “I can’t believe it, something so simple and yet I didn’t get it. You’re both what I fear most in life.” I watch as both of them pause, in a quasi-stasis state. No more as if they were completely immobile, the sensation of just waking up from a dream would be far more accurate.

“Ugh finally I was getting bored of you reading that book while you had the keys to me this entire time but just refused to put it on. At least you passed the first test with ease” My voice echoes from all around? Why am I surprised at this point, I’m catered to by two different deities, well known deities at that.

“Well you enjoy hearing yourself speak as much as any other human does. That is with much certainty so I took up your own silky smoothness in that image.” A large sigh comes from the very critical double of my voice. “Hey this isn’t criticism, just pointing out the obvious. Anyways I do not enjoy the whole mysterious cloak and dagger routine like my creator does.”

The voice scoffs. “To lead someone around for seven entire years and say nothing? I could never. That being said, I can only give you some information now that you’ve put on that there ring.” Somehow it mentally injects the image of pointing in my mind’s eye towards my right hand, and somehow it was there.

“The Ring of Gaia. Is that why I never interacted with it? Part of Alter’s intuitive interaction.” I quietly think to myself. A simple wooden ring with authentic vines wrapped around itself to complete its pattern. Yet I never even put it on so how is this possible?

I cross my arms around each other and rapidly blink. To be simply given information for once is a miracle. “Rings, rings, hm you’re going to have to be more specific on which one you’re referring to, I picked up more than one over the course of these few days.”

The voice audibly gasped. “Ah so you can still act charismatic despite having your charisma being taken away from you? And your first question wasn’t “Who are you?!” What a terrible non-calculative surprise for me, I expect better of myself. Anyways yeah you didn't put it on the system did. Think of it as a sort of precaution to make sure you actually survive the coming days.”

"A precaution? Even though I can revive eight times and still have one life left over Gaia and Yaldabaoth still think I need precautions?"

I lazily wave my hand back and forth and nonchalantly play it off. “Oh I don’t even need to check all my skill points are probably rendered null and void against you or just in general in this place, I’d say the former since you have my exact same voice and presence.” I verbally get no answer but the silence is telling enough of what it is.

Was I really that predictable? “Before she befell onto us I most definitely would have asked that.”

Shrugging my shoulders whilst simultaneously loosening them I send the moon a flat stare. “It gets old after the first few deities you know? If you want something or want to tell me something then I’m all ears, until then I’m learning to pick my questions better from those who are reticent.” I jab a thumb in the frozen pair’s direction. “Can you do anything about those two? Preferably erase them? To force the apparitions of what pains me on the inside is cruel.”

“Is your pain justified?”

That caught me off guard, my hand returned to my side in a sluggish move. “Excuse me?”

The unnamed echo of my voice acted as if I said the most insignificant thing I could. “Is it right to take a pain and transfigure it into something repressed? This is only right that I ask if we are to embark on an inquiry of pain, a question to your question if you will.”

I pause, what was the point of such an inquiry? “Why even think of such a random- oh who am I kidding?! This is all apart of some fucking test and I can no longer even control my emotions to any degree so I might as well be honest.”

A bubbling of liquid life travels through my veins. It’s as if lava was dumped on my insides and outsides, a purification that feels so real “Suppressed? Not in an infinite time’s passage! It’s not a luxury that us who are weaker can afford but with this stupid comfortability that's come my way maybe I thought that I could escape that mindset, even if it was subconsciously.” Adrenaline flows through my veins as I gaze back at the lifeless imposters that are Celestia and Nightmare Moon. “But why should I even try to escape it?”

“Because it’s comfortable, you have Princess Celestia to think for you, cover your every move in order to make sure your life is as comfortable as possible.” The mimicked voice argues. “It’s the correct thing to do, you’re guaranteed to protect those around you in a fortress of family and friends."

I walk towards them both, the yin and yang of my terror. Each step shakier than the last and laugh as if I set off the finishing blow. “Correct… CORRECT? That’s laughable if not hilarious, no you are correct in that sensation but even though that’s correct that could never mean it’s what’s right for a person.”

Before I could even process my actions I’m already in front of the Celestia doppelganger, I reach out and touch its mane.

“This sensation, this fear is what has kept humans alive for centuries. It’s what drives people, and for me I have to hold onto that. That’s nature’s law, and humans have always tried to reach out to become gods, celestial beings, or perfection.” I retract myself and reel my entire fist back.

“Celestia, the one who is immortal, my judge and warden, the one who prevented me from being carefree and infinitely more adventurous.” The heavied hand strikes through the mirror image, leaving a line of cracks centered around the opened abdomen of the clone. “I set you free from my sense of escapism, you are now one of my drivers of self. Please carry me to my charismatic battles to cajole others as you have unto yourself.”

The hand leaves the abdomen and strikes again at its chest, another crack, and another and another until she is nothing but a pile of iridescent shards floating in its space, fractured beauty as I see it in front of me.

I walk to the frozen simile of Nightmare Moon and shake my head. “It’s sad that everyone has such different visuals.”

“Whatever do you mean Ryan? Or should I call you Chimera now that you’re finally acknowledging yourself.” The voice calls out.

A lance of darkness appears in my hand, blue feline-esque eyes open all over it as they stare at the Nightmare. “It couldn’t matter any less than it does here. Call me whatever you’d like, you have my voice and perhaps even my face, you manipulated my ability to feel emotions. Most likely you know my views on things as well. I should have known this was a test about fears from the moment I stepped in here, maybe that is why my intelligence is so low.” I lightly joke.

I take the Calamity Cinnabar and twirl it in the air before snapping it back with both my hands, aiming at her chest. “Nightmare Moon.” I calmly breathe out. “The one who brutalized me with more force than what was necessary, haunter of my future and aspirations.”

The darkened lance thrusted outwards and pierced the chestpiece of Nightmare Moon. her form twisted and churned in a futile attempt at stability. “I release you from my ability to make excuses for my psyche, more importantly my fear of overwhelming strength in a world devoid of black or white.” The essence of the corrupted being finally snapped and was replaced with a darkened sludge that could no longer hold its form, collapsing in front of my eyes and dripping into my sullied weapon, and emanating from it could have been mistaken for a sentient glint in its eye.

I twist my wrists, plunging the artifact of a weapon in the hardened cobblestone with ease, shaking my head. “Nobody will be able to understand what was done here, not even I do. It’s much more spiritual than just destruction. I answered the world’s questions with my own answers even if it doesn’t make sense and yet…” A writhing sensation travels throughout my entire body.

My mind is shaking, tearing itself apart at the seams, breaking itself apart. Yet all of it is becoming anew, in a futile attempt to dull the pain I grip my head hoping to make it stop yet the tremors in my body all but force me to drop down on the knees that have supported me for the better half of these seven years of torment on this planet.

“It hurts… It hurts… ITS HURTS… Why?” Every sensation inside me goes numb, but I don’t need to question it any longer.

‘Player (Ryan Steele) has completed part 1 & 2 of questline (guidelines to becoming a living legend) sufficient rewards shall be immediately dealt as compensation for your unknowing participation.’

‘New Talent unlocked: Warrior's Respite’

'Description, Due to taking such mental damage that was unaccounted for mental exhaustion you have gained this. If you stand still for fifteen seconds you will enter a moment of rest and become able to recover both HP and your mental sanity at a steady rate.'

“Already? Geez and here I was having my fun, alright kid I’m you if you couldn’t tell such from the get-go.” I slowly stand up and grunt, lifting up my right hand only to find it darkening at a rapid pace. “Ah right that, that’s part of Gaia’s gift, it’s supposed to help you assimilate and what not.”

The voice grows closer and closer to me as if it were visible. “Cliff notes version is that I’m a byproduct of your ability to fear and adapt I’d guess. Or at least that’s what I think, Gaia didn’t give me many instructions-” He wasn’t even able to finish before I cried out in pain once again, every single throb of my brain feels worse than what a thousand stabs could do, and it only grows worse as what could even be called my arm at this point begins to make small groves on itself like some sort of freakish flesh tree.

Over my incoherent screaming I hear the small ruffling of cloth. “I’m going to need you to stop fighting it, you’re becoming a fairy, more power is what you desire so this is what was given to you.” A gloved hand is placed on my head, gently rubbing it and in an instant I can feel my pains begin to wither away. “There we are, now aren’t you going to greet your newest partner?”

The hand uplifts me and before my eyes leave the ground I reach out for a name, anything to call the other self. “Azael…” The name escapes my lips before I can even view the man.

“That pain…” I look over to my right hand. “Not fully brown but it’s definitely not the pale white it was before. My arm and hand are rough but smooth all the same, that seems about the end of my afflictions. Was that all worth it just for this though?”

“A demon viewed as a scapegoat for human sins huh?” I finally get a good view of who it is that’s put me through these trials and well his description speaks for itself. If I’m supposed to be a knowing monster, then the creature in front of me is a monster disguising itself in deceit.

Purple curled horns stretching outwards that extended as if he were a demon, clawed wings that start as a pure snow white but end with a maroon red resembling a fallen angel, dress pants and an old-fashioned tuxedo not dissimilar to a false gentleman’s persona all fitted in a top hat placed on his head, but the most discerning one was the plague doctor-esque mask he wore that disguise what his face appeared as; in fact none of his skin showed through his outfit.

He leans forward, that beaked mask getting in the way of those glass lenses that reflected off the moonlight, not even allowing me to view his eyes. “You know as you’re analyzing I’m picking up more and more on you, and yeah I can already tell based on your decisions for recklessness and false intelligence are going to make my name fit, so Azael it is. A pleasure to meet a new fairy in the making, I’d suppose.”

I grit my teeth, does he really have the gall to be cocky when I’m so disoriented that I can’t tell up from down? “You keep on saying “fairy” but there are different iterations of them! Most are just evil pricks while others are nice as could be. So if I am one then why am I turning wooden, wouldn’t that just make me a dryad-”

The newly named Azael holds up a hand to stop me. “Okay okay! I get it you’re pissed and you deserve answers anyways. Considering after this, easy mode is getting turned off.”

“Are you saying this was easy mode?!”

He points a finger gun at me and chuckles. “Kid you’ve got no idea. Tell me, do you even know what a Legend truly is?” Underneath that mask, I could have sworn I felt a sinister grin form on whatever served as a mouth for himself.

Chapter 2

(Theme song, optional if you wanna listen to it)

(Perspective of view: Ryan Steele)

“I might need to become a spy, even with low level stealth this is a sinch. Apparently never perfect enough to get through Princess Celestia’s detection.” This wasn’t an ideal choice to make. There’s a bunch of houses around here that are around the orchard’s entrance. And now (Stealth) is beginning to wear off, just my luck.

I decide that running somewhere randomly is in my best interest so I do just that. Passing by house after house I must say they look very fanatical. The inns are really fitting the fantasy types that you’d see in D&D, tiny signs hanging below the doors, open shops are all around, merchants inside of them with exotic items, there’s also a few bookstores that contain who knows what. Nothing like what I saw in Canterlot where everything was more refined and formal, not to mention a complete drag of order.

A small hiccup manifests inside my throat. “This is exactly what I imagined it to be, all I ever wanted. To have a grand adventure and to think that this might be the first steps to controlling my own destiny, my first folio coming true.”

Such childish thoughts but not unwelcome ones at that. I feel the wind rushing through me as I pass by the diverse amount of races around here. Humans with greenish skin who have deer horns, feline-like features nowhere as humanoid as mine, or just regular humans with whitish hair like mine and pale skin. Otherwise known as Gremor, Felinor, and Castellan respectively. The rest of the population was mainly equines. Never thought I’d see races in real life especially when you’ve only seen them in textbooks. Because of how sheltered I was in Canterlot, there were only unicorns besides a few diverse races in the mix which were rare and few in between.

I close my eyes as I freely sprint, feeling my breath kick up in basic bodily response; suddenly being knocked on my ass as I find myself disorientated. In an instant my body goes from semi-transparent to completely visible in a premature manner.

I rub my head, stumbling to the ground. “Why don’t you watch where you’re going?” I roughly spoke out of complete instinct for self-preservation.

They grunted and got back up off of the ground. “Oh yeah, why don’t you watch where you’re going, half invisible. Can’t believe you’ve got the gall to ask me to watch where I was going when you crashed into me.”

My eyes couldn’t help but roll while I stood back up myself. At least I can get a good look from this person and see if I can make any connections here. “I should probably apologi- hm well would you look at that.” I glance at my bit counter and smile; yeah I can have some fun with this.

Squinting, I tried to differentiate what their race was based on my knowledge from the two previous games I’ve played. They had pseudo-circle markings on their face, dark blue hair, yet they somehow also had dark blue wings on their back too. But the tail is what really got me, it was more like a bird than anything I’ve seen from other pegasi which is surprising if you consider that they’re meant for flight, this lady’s got actual feathers for a tail. Her clothing is pretty roguish, meant for swift movements and flexibility. It’s all mostly black though, could imply a thief-esque background; could probably keep that in my head for notes.

“Yeah keep staring, you douchebag. Knew I should’ve caved your skull-” I stopped the mysterious woman from talking any further though.

Sensitivity wasn’t an immediate priority. Not under these circumstances. “What exactly are you?”

My current adversary narrows her eyes and glares at me. “Who just says that to someo- pony they met? What are you a kid?”

“Ah, that was an easy catch, she’s having dialect issues but still knows what she’s supposed to be saying. Reminds me of immigration to America. Time to professionalize this.”

Whelp, time to resort to the tyrant’s tactics so soon. “Then I guess I’ll have to let the authorities know you pickpocketed me and stole my money.” Funny thing about having a literal bit counter on the side of your vision, you will know whether or not something’s gone missing and it seems like twenty bits were suddenly gone from my person.

The mysterious woman raises an eyebrow. “Wait, do you mean The Authority or the authorities?” She adds a small smirk at the end.

“How would she get that faction confused with the regular law enforcement?” Staring at her I huff and realize that she’s messing with me. “At the very least could you tell me your name, maybe that way I won’t think you’re some thieving no name fool, yeah?”

“...I’m Vanished Flow the half-Tiran half-Pegasus. There, ya happy? And here’s your stupid bits back anyways.” Vanished Flow tosses me a collective of ten bits to me, I don’t even bother collecting them, instead I let them hit the ground.

Okay that’s intriguing, never thought ponies and other humans could have kids. “Nah you can keep it. Instead, why don’t you tell me about how your parents meet? By the way, I’m Ryan, Ryan Steele.”

“Or, get this Ryan? Piss off and don’t ask me something that personal. Who even introduces themselves like that? I swear all you Castellans have your head in a vice grip, trying to be nosy.” Vanishing Flow retorts, onlookers don’t even bother to give either of us the time of day. Guess she’s like this more often than not. I’ll quit being a prick.

“Ah she doesn’t know I’m a defect, and since I’m living in the moment I’ll just go along with it.”

Can this conversation even be salvaged, let me give it a go. “I see when my smartassery isn’t needed. Instead, for the price of letting you keep the money you also show me around for a bit?”

The roguish half-Pegasus seems to begin weighing her options, her very few options. “Fine but don’t get mad at me if this little tour doesn’t go as planned.”

“That’s fine by me, probably better than running a checklist.” Flashing the half-pony in front of me a smile. I decide to allow her to continue rationalizing that I am a mere Castellan and not some crazy traveler.

“Weirdo.” Vanishing Flow whispered, picking up the bits she stole earlier. Going in some other direction, forcing me to play catch up with her.

“Hm, guess I was wrong about her being culturally different. She knows Tiran history and Pegasus history very well.

“And this right here is where I can actually sell my gains.” Vanishing Flow stops in front of a merchant’s shop. It’s shady as hell, I almost thought I’d get snatched there. But hey, even if it looks more like a blackmarket pawnshop, who am I to knock a good hustle? She’s been taking me throughout this town called Ponyville.

Before the big joint fusion of lands this place was really undeveloped like the rest of Equestria but somewhat of a landmark because of its ability to naturally gravitate trouble to it. After the other races started sharing their knowledge, the combined technological pitching of The Summer Company which is a faction willing to sell to anybody as long as they have the coin, the Kingdom of Etrea who’s already allied with Equestria; the country got on its feet to thrive.

People have been exchanging secrets of the world and even the more major things like how these new magics functioned. Not that I didn’t know most of that anyways but I let the girl keep on talking. She felt like a kindred spirit; both of us encapsulated inside this enigma of society. Or maybe I’m overthinking it and Ms. Vanishing Flow here ain’t privy to outsiders.

It wouldn’t hurt too bad for me to ask a bit more about her. “Hey Vanishing, have you got any family?” I asked her.

Perhaps that wasn’t the best course of action, if her balling up her fists is anything to go by. “Hey listen prick, I know you probably wanna get to know me but I don’t wanna get to know you. You’re paying me for this; practically the only reason I agreed.”

“Feisty, she really reminds me of this one girl I dated in college, nice ass, good personality, all well-rounded. We dated for a good while until she had to hop states. Sad how life can take the good things away. Man, what I would give to spend another night with her without studies getting in the way.” My eyes space off as I walk forward. Not noticing where I’m going I trip on a rock.

“Curse my curiosity!” I shout inside my mind. It should be impossible to be this agile and this clumsy at the same time.

About to fall on my chin, I brace myself but the fall doesn’t come. Confused, I stare at the ground for a few more seconds until I turn back. Seeing a cyan skinned man with dark blue hair and multiple red dotted and lined tattoos on his face. Must be an Adret, the naturally diplomatic race, almost always guided by spirituality.

“Woah Vanishing why would you let this fellow fall like that?” I was half tempted to make a snarky comment like ‘Yeah Vanishing’s gotta be more attentive. A person can’t let the merchandise just damage itself.’ but chose not to. The surprisingly strong guy heaved me up and patted my shoulder. “Are you faring well sir?”

I turn towards the random guy. “Uh yeah I’m good man, thanks.” The stranger gave me a weirded expression (shocker) and I could only assume why.

He held his hand out for me, introducing himself. “Hearing such kind words from a Castellan to give me any gratitude. And no offense but you do not speak like a pompous jerk. A pleasure to meet someone different. I’m of Adret lineage, William Cobert, a friend of this nice pegasus you are with.”

I took his hand and gave it a good shake. I might be a bit of a jackass. That doesn’t mean I’m plain rude though. “Yo, I’m Ryan Steele. Sweet to meet someone who’s not constantly brooding to themselves.” I glance at Vanishing, wiggling my fingers at her in a teasing manner. She loudly sighed at me instead.

“Yeah she’s a nice gal.” I sarcastically told myself in a pleasant tone.

“Ugh you don’t have to keep that up Will, he knows I’m half Tiran. Why are you even here? I thought you’d be studying politics or some stupid shit.” Vanishing put a hand on her hip, trying to look unimpressed but I know she must’ve been jealous that I’ve finally got some gratitude from someone normal. Eh kinda normal, this guys get up is so historical, not that I’m any better. He’s got those wrist frills on his outfit. Those same ones that people had in the 1600s or whatever. Typical nobleman attire I must say.

“They’re like water and fire. You could probably divide them evenly but they’d still get different measurements. This must be one of those ‘opposites attract’ situations.” I mentally chuckle from how ridiculous this all looks from an outsider’s perspective.

“Studying to become a noble is not ‘stupid’ Vanishing, it is smart. If I can make things better for the little guy then everything will be easier on people like us. This is gonna be our sparkle of hope one day!” William pumped a fist in the air. Getting a lotta weird stares from other passersby. He deserved a round of applause so I gave him one.

“Bravo my good sir, truly that was an extravaganza of a performance. I don’t know what it was about but I certainly approve.” I said with a joking smile.

He bowed, this guy’s definitely a character and a half. He actually ended up bowing until my clapping died down. I love straightforward people. In some sense it means I won’t have to mentally outmaneuver them. “Thank you, thank you Ryan. It is nice to know I can get some support from others. What are the two of you doing out here anyways?” William had begun to slowly roll his wrist around as if he was trying to find some type of sentence to say without getting mauled. “Vanishing I thought you had some… Less than civil activities to be doing.”

“Pickpocketing, yeah I was trying until I met this guy who somehow noticed me doing it. I have chaperoned this idiot around Ponyville until now. This guy didn’t even know where the bank was until a few minutes ago.” Vanishing stiffly replied.

William’s eyes had shot up which scared the crap outta me. “Oh you’re a newbie here? Vanishing, did you show him our guild base?! We’re the only two guilds here in Ponyville so we could always use a new recruit.”

“Sorry dude, I’m actually not staying here, I'm just with someone special to make sure this year’s Summer Sun Celebration runs smoothly.” I chimed.

This man went from eleven back down to one. Shame, if he was that eager to recruit then I might’ve joined just for the heck of it. “Ah, sorry Ryan I was too hasty with my approach. Well you all can carry on then.” William walked away while keeping his eyes glued to the floor. He’ll probably be fine though, right?

I turned my attention back to Vanishing Flow who was giving me a death glare. Way worse than the one I had got when I told my girl I wasn’t gonna drink with her at the party both of us got invited to.

“Is there a problem?” I felt stupid after asking that. And Vanishing must’ve felt the same since she only gestured back over to the depressed Adret.

“Well, visiting that shopkeeper can wait. Even though he had some sick ass sword I wanted to buy. Nice people deserve better anyways.”

Guilds and factions oppose each other depending on how the guild leader runs their people. Most guilds are pretty small while others, not so much. I called out to the charismatic guy. “Wait, actually I wanna see this guild base you’ve got. I haven’t seen a guild base before in person.” That was a lie. I had met the “Swift” guild before.

Princess Celestia, the oh so large tyrant, had hired some of these guys as extra muscle during an escort mission for Bluebro or Blueblood, another pony I had met. He’s kinda a dick but my nonstop influence wore him down over the years at his impressionable stages so we’ve got a mutual respect going on. Bottom line, some of these guys are straight demons. They’ve got some abilities people haven’t even seen before but otherwise they’re chill people.

And all that energy that was drained came straight back to him. “You won’t regret this Ryan, I can promise you that.” Why does it feel like someone will start singing after this. For some stupid reason people will start singing in this world and know what the other lyrics are despite having no rehearsal. Something called “Harmonic Tuning.” The science behind it is still ongoing despite all of this but it’s why some music can have certain effects on others.

“Ever since I moved here it’s been nothing but tough… However, if we show you something better, we’ll be sure to get out of this rough~” And he started singing anyway.

Nope, I’m stopping this before he keeps going. “Nuh-uh, don’t do that. It’s freaky how you all are able to do that. The singing is nice though, you can call it a phobia of mine but I bet you didn’t practice that song beforehand and I hate things I can’t understand.”

I turn the other way, not even bothering to look at Vanishing for her opinion since she looks like the type to always stick up for her friends. What she said though? Completely surprised me. “Finally, someone who agrees with me on that. That spontaneous singing gets on my nerves sometimes.”

William had stopped as he should’ve in the first place. “To be expected, however, I would not be where I am now if I chose not to at least try doing something that someone did not like.” He then twirled around and moved both of his arms in a way which presented a certain pathway, course I don’t even know where it leads though. “Come along then, perhaps when you see what we have to work with you’ll think about moving here in Ponyville.” Mhm, prime hyperness right here. He’s professional though. I think so, can’t say for certain though because of these mixed signals he’s sending me.

“You deal with this on the daily, don’tcha?” I questioned the dashing rogue. That cocky attitude of mine stays. “I’ve got the right though. I was robbed not even-” Before I could finish my thoughts I had my shoes stepped on by Vanishing as she passed by to start walking somewhere else.

I watch my health bar as it doesn’t move an inch, still annoying though. “Hey! Watch it next time would ya?” I moved up behind her, watching her move around to stare at me face to face.

She narrows her eyes and presses me. “Or else what?” Woah, okay I wasn’t actually expecting that kind of reaction.

“It is not appropriate to escalate to this level. Mayhaps you should both calm down?” William tries to defuse the situation. If it wasn’t for how adorable the two of these act while in the same area then I’d be going even further.

It’s now my turn to roll my eyes, sighing with the knowledge that I will be conceding. “Mmm, fine, my bad for getting on your nerves Vanishing.” She doesn’t respond to my oh so heartfelt apology.

William observed me as if I was a toddler crossing a road. What a banal observation to give someone. “Do not worry about it. Vanishing probably accepted your apology Ryan. She really warms up to people when you get to know her.”

“Somehow I don’t believe that but by all means try and make this work.” This is gonna work out for my avarice in the end; I can truly feel it.

“Ryan! Ryan, where the buck are you?!” I hear Twilight calling out from somewhere in the distance. What terrible timing for me, I should probably skedaddle before a cranky pony finds me.

“Uh, Ryan, is someone calling for you?” Dammit it’s like William has a reflective dogma of an every day goodie two shoes.

My hairs start standing up on the back of my neck, even my arms and legs. Back when I was a regular ole human, stuff like this only happened to my neck. Another perk of being an almighty defective child. Besides the drawback of not being able to use magic which is something Castellans are known for. “It’s time for me to make an exit with these two. I like good people but when they start affecting my life then it’s not too good anymore.”

I start shaking my head. “Nope literally didn’t hear anything. Vanishing, did you hear somebody start speaking?” Alright I know me and her aren’t close. As she seems like someone who’s used to picking up on signals I’m hoping she goes along with what I’m saying.

The hybrid blinks, obviously I caught her off guard. Her flat stare tells it all though as she gives her answer. “Does it really matter if anybody called out for him? You said you left Marax at the base, right? We shouldn’t keep him waiting at the guild base for long.” Oh nice save Vanishing. Something tells me she doesn’t give a shit though.

“R-right! I left him almost two hours ago. And I know you must be dying to see our base Ryan. Lets go!” This motherfu- I’m sorry, this gentleman goes over to me and grabs my arm despite not looking that strong. And walks off with me, nobody even bats an eye though.

“Exactly how normal is this blasphemous behavior?” I question myself as I’m dragged away. It’s easier to accept this fate before it gets out of hand. “Reminds me of when Boasted Honor would personally drag me out of bed if I didn’t report to the training hall quick enough. That sure did change my sleep schedule, and mood for that matter.”

The trip was creepy to say the least on the upside William had let go of me so there’s that. They said that this was their base. What’s right in front of me but all I see in front of me is a door propped up against a random large tree that leads to virtually nowhere. “Here we are, welcome to the “No Regrets” guild base, where we all live by no regrets and fight until we achieve our better days.” Okay it’s pretty obvious that William Cobert is running this thing. He’s doing all the talking for his partner here like he’s the show’s star and I suppose he technically is for that matter.

“That’s a pretty specific guild name to have. A little corny but I definitely like it. Reminds me of those up beat songs I’d listen to back when I would-” A small memory flashes in my mind before I could finish, sitting on a couch surrounded by long time friends from middle school watching old shows we’d watch back then together. Man I miss my parents, I miss my original planet, I miss my old life. What I would do to see it all again.

A small bump on my back keeps me from delving too deep into my thoughts again.

“Whatever you’re thinking of, you should probably stop it.” Vanishing warned me. “That direction never works out.” She’s probably right, having pessimistic thoughts 24/7 doesn’t do wonders for the mind.

William tries to speak but I don’t like people dwelling on such sappyness. In front of me that is. Can’t really care if it takes place somewhere I can’t see or hear. I choose to take the most extravagant choice and open the door wide. I think I remember how these things work.

The medium sized oak door leads to an entire space that couldn’t possibly be behind a normal sized tree. I’m met with a large open area completely made of wood. It almost seems as though there’s some tree growing from certain parts of the base. Very floral looking, kinda giving me hippy vibes which is counter intuitive. These two alone have shown me that isn’t the case so I’m assuming this is normal. There’s even a large light bulb that’s trapped in metal in the middle of it that’s giving out some pretty good heat, even from right here. Oh they even have bookshelves and some tables along with chairs that are all, again, made of wood. Even then I can spot a few openings that lead to other rooms I haven’t seen.

It’s as I expected, exactly like from one of the two games I used to play. Guild bases are sorta like pocket dimensions. You simply use a small ring bestowed upon guild officers and or guild leaders which allows them to manifest what most call a guild base’s door onto any surface. That leads to your very own base which can be customized how one sees fit. It took me a while to recognize it since I never actually saw the Swift guild base, just their men.

“This looks amazing, clearly someone with an anti-provincial thought process was the one to build this place. Thanks for bringing me here you two.” I complimented the place as I practically twirled through. Internally I’m fanboying though.

I cross my arms as I think to myself. “I never thought I’d see the day. A guild base that looks so real. I don’t know how this world is still surprising me but it’s definitely making it easier to stop being sad about my old home. Doesn’t make the pain go away, yet it helps me ease up.”

“This is our base where we practice guild activities, group up for jobs, discuss what our monthly plans are, and relax.” Vanishing said as she walked up to an oak chair and sat on it.

William walked through along with us, shaking his head. “We do not necessarily do this every month. Because nothing interesting ever happens here in Ponyville that the locals cannot deal with so we have to keep ourselves busy. Unlike other places such as Canterlot or Minityrsa.”

“Still, it’s the same principle, William. We use this to put pins in missions and accomplish them like anyone else with half a mind to plan.” Vanishing Flow argued.

I give a disconcerting chuckle. “You want to live in places where legendary events occur? That is some wishful thinking there.”

“Honestly I don’t see how anyone could really give a shit.” I whispered underneath my breath. I mean it’s relatively the same either way so no one needs to argue.

Vanishing’s ears twitch very briefly until they return to how they were. “If she even heard a glimpse of that, would she hear such naturally low decibels?” I’m left to question myself.

Her head moves from the hand she was resting on. “What did you just say? I don’t think I could hear you quite as well as I would’ve liked.”

“Oh that ain’t good. Uh think fast man.” I doubt she’ll take the usual ‘it was nothing’ answer since it looks like she’s ready to kick my ass.

“I had said why don’t you talk as if you were a pony. You know I’ve got a sister who’s a pony and she usually says things like ‘anypony’ or ‘everypony’ but you say things like everyone and anybody. What’s up with that?” Nice job me, I think I caught her off guard with that one.

Vanishing got up from her chair and sat on the table instead. I don’t know if it was an intimidation act to seem taller while sitting since I’m standing. I can’t really tell.

“That’s because I don’t consider myself a pony. I’m more Tiran than Pegasus, this only applies in private though. So don’t go calling me one in public. Besides, nobody here is even a slither of pony besides me. Speaking of which, if you ever do come back to Ponyville then make sure to refer to me as a Pegasus thank you very much.”

William takes a book resting on top of the bookshelves with a funny cover on it. It’s titled ‘How to make friends’ by Kang. “She is sensitive about this. And the request itself is simple too. So please respect her wishes”

Vanishing scoffed. “William, you don’t need to talk as if I wasn’t here.”

“I apologize. It was not my motive to demean you in any way. Still Vanishing, you should not get so defensive over it.” William got a little feisty there despite being so vanilla.

“Oi! Why are you two arguing in there like we’re an outhouse?” A voice yelled from one of the two deviating paths. And I hear some bed springs letting up then a couple of footsteps before a white haired, turquoise skinned, and green eyed man popped up from the opening. “Some of us are trying to take a nap-” He pauses, glaring at me. “Who in the Depths is this kid?”

“Who’s he calling a kid? I’m in my late twenties for crying out loud! Well, actually I do like surprisingly young for my age so I can allow a mistake like that.”

“This is Ryan Steele. He’s agreed to take a look at our guild base after William begged him.” Vanishing remarked.

“Is he anyone special or we’re letting strangers in for no reason?” This rude guy’s questioning is getting on my nerves, hypocritical of me I know. It still ticks me off to no avail.

Vanishing shook her head. Rude but to her knowledge she doesn’t know that I basically got isekai’d into this world. So that’s true for her. “Not that we know of, William thought he was interested in some oddity of a way.”

William attempted to defend his actions. “No Regrets has next to no visitors and he is new to Ponyville. This seemed to be an exemplary opportunity.”

“Hmm, trying to remember every single race from two collective games is more difficult than trying to get a casually good super smash brother player to remember all of the roster’s characters. He looks familiar as hell though.”

“Can he fight at all, any special skills, any notable accomplishments?” Woah I didn’t know he was trying to interrogate my position for being able to stay here for the next presumable sixteen or so hours.

“He is not here for an initiation, Marax. Even if he did not-” William tried to start, I cut him off though as I narrowed my eyes.

“I’m sorry William but let me cut you off right there.” I cleared my throat and chuckled. “So, you’re Marax, a Dinkerai?” His eyes widen for a moment and returns to normal for a second.

“Bullseye, I knew he was that one race. The natural ability to steal souls and transmute them into runes that go on your body. Doesn’t seem like he has any though.”

Time to press him even further to give him some ‘insight’ on why he shouldn’t mess with me. “Listen, I know you don’t know this but I will always be pure and unadulteratedly direct (A lie). I may be a Castellan, that still doesn’t mean I’m not strong. Bottom line is, you need to watch yourself (Another bluff).”

Everyone in the room pauses. “I work hard on my way of speech. There’s no way I wouldn’t have had that in the bag.”

A small card with a beautiful pattern on its back appears on the left side of my vision, invisible to everyone else. It flips itself over, revealing an image of a tongue dripping with purple venom and a small description below it.

‘New Talent unlocked: No nonsense’

(Description, after having verbally defended yourself and your opinions aloud time and time again, it has accumulated to the point where you now always are ready to go on the offensive. Any situation trying to test your courage or bravery will look like child’s play in front of you.)

“Would you look at that…” I whisper to myself aloud. “I think I’ll enjoy hanging out with you all for the time being, as long as I get to avoid my sister.” I walked through the small opening that Marax had come through. Who knew I’d get a Talent card as soon as I got to Ponyville. This really is coming up my way; all I can do is hope for it to spiral out of Princess Celestia’s control from here on out.

Author's Note

(Armor and accessories inside and out of the inventory)
-Black shirt (A generic black shirt that even ponies can wear!) (offers no armor)
-Black jacket (A generic black jacket that's defaulted to any who can afford it!) (Offers no armor)
-Black boots (Good for trekking across difficult terrain.) (Offers no armor)
-Black jeans (Nice long black jeans refitted to fit humans specifically by Ryan's request.)(Offers no armor)
-Brawler’s outfit (Combative ready armor that's flexible enough for a gymnast's movements.) (Decent armor class at the ready)
-vanguard’s brace (A nice armored shoulder pad that could easily shrug off attacks in order to make up for the lack of one that comes with the Brawler's outfit) (Offers great defense on one area of the body)
-vanguard’s boot (Hardy boots that are good for sharp terrain, specifically designed to counter puncturing weapons.) (Offers great defense against arrows and quick thrusts from conventional weaponry.)
-bronze dagger x1, bronze sword x2, bronze spear x1 (Basic bronze weaponry made for beginners, their blades are sharpened to a point where cutting becomes no problem.)
-wooden sword x2, wooden spear x1 (Wooden weapons that are recommend for basic training with their dulled edges.)
-Lute (A basic wooden lute that allows for the user to play music at their own accord.)
-Leather Glider (Crude) x1 use remaining (A glider meant to soar through the airs from high above, but this one seems ready to snap in half.)
-Fishing Rod (A basic tool used to catch different marine life, mainly fish.)

Power: E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Health: 100%
Posture: 0%
Born: E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Race:E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Age:E̠̜̟̩͑̿̎̇r̦̩͚͛́̈r̭͒̐͜o͚̾r̡̹̙̼̉͆̎̚͢͠ ̨͊4̠͙̘͔̊̊͆̚0̮̎4̬̱̦̐̇̔̕͢
Time: 11:50 AM

Strength:I̙̱̭͂̎̓ṋ̍ţ̛̝̥́͠e̛̜̦͓̞͒̕͠r̦͂f̯̖̖̮̟̉̓̔̔͡e̖̮̣͊͑͟͡͝ṟ̨̻̜̬́̌́́̚e̠̲̬̎̀͞n̨̬̞̋̂͆c̠͙͐͝è͖
Fortitude: I̟̰̪͗̋̄̕͜r̡̬͒́r͖͔͂͂ȩ̤͎̎͌͂̿ͅĺ̡̧̰̲͚͑̋̾̍ȅ̩̭͈͂̅v̹̾á̯͍̖̇͗ṅ̜̜̆ṯ̏
Agility: N̞̝̜̯̒͛̄̈́ọ̯̌̃t̨̛̛̤ ̜̚f̡̱̠͆͘͞ȁ̘̱̀st ̡̠̽̋͐ͅȇ͖̲̀n͉̳͚̭̣̉̐̂̌̆o͕̯͗͒ǘ͖̲̖̪̌́͝g͚̝̥̹̀̌̔͒h̡̳̜͖̀̓̓̄
Intelligence: M͕̘͙̮͑̒͘̕ạ̢̚͞n̤͆ŭ̗ḟ̹̼̣͇̞̎͂̅̾a̻͐c̩͍̀͛t̖̝̔̂ư̙̜̝̂̕ṙ͕̱̕͟͠ȅ̳͕̞͓͌̋͂d̮̹͛̉ ̨̹̄̄
Willpower: H͈̠͆̽o̧̱̦̿̔͞ŕ̻ȑ͇̖̬̗̓̂̾î̯̦̠͆̓̃ͅf̛͇̥̑i̺̠̝̿̏́ed̨̪̩̀̀͊
Charisma: N̩͕̬͋̍͠ò̤̳̄t̛͈̲̝̃͑̅͟h̡̨̛̤͖̃̊͘i͐͟ǹ̖͕͔͗̆́͟g̙̯̭͂͗͝ǹ̦̦̼͔͂̂́͢͠ě̞͚̱̀͞ss̘͕̩̅̋͝
Attunement(s):I̫̱͛̑ņ̟̹̗͐̋͒͘co̢̹̹̥̍̎́͞m̡̛̺̭̈́͂̐͜p̋ͅa̯̠͓̼͗̏̓̈͟͠ẗ̨͎̪͗̿ȋ̺̞͗ḃ̗̘̕l̦̆ḛ̦͕̯̗̄̈́̓̂͘ ̺̦͖͗̓͠

(Spells): N͚͌/̤̟̖̠̽̈́̕͠A̙̣͛̚

Investment Points: N̛̮̘̩͒̚u̻̣̰͉̪̿̔̈̈́̄ĺ̰̙̳̍́̐̕͟͟l̜̑

Heavy Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜
Medium Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜
Light Weapon: Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜

(Skills): Er͎̞̻̞͑͂̃̈r̫͡o̰̊ṙ̨͚̻̜̮̐̎͘͞ ̤͉̦̊̓̈́̓͜4̛̮̫̦͞͠0̖͎̈́̉4̆͜

(Talents)

-No nonsense
-E̞̅͝ͅr̙͛r̙̪̖̦͒̒̌̒ő̺r͖̻͔͌̋̔ ͈̰̹́̅̍4̝͖͙͇͙̍̎̽̓̈́0͕̳̅̅4͉̇̂͜ r̡͋e̙̳̻͔̒̔̅͘pe̥͈̜͂́̐̂͜ã̝t̞̦́͠in̲͎̐̈́g͚̈́