Look Inside Your Heart Part Two.by DebonairChaptersPrologue: Waking NightmaresChapter 2: Suspicions.Chapter 3: The Big Reveal.Chapter 4: Process Of Elimination.Chapter 5: The World ParallelChapter 6: Mortality LostChapter 7: Even The Enemy Can Be HeroicChapter 8: Final Preparations.Chapter 9: Sore Subjects Need MassagingChapter 10: An Old Pony's TaleChapter 1: Dreams Are SacredPrologue: Waking NightmaresPrologue: Waking Nightmares. (P.O.V. Switch, Third Person.) "This is all your fault." A female voice echoed in the darkness. "None of this would have happened, if you hadn't tricked me." "Why would I trick you, Selene," A deep male voice replied. "I let you out of Tartarus, and you screwed me over." "Did I really fool the great moon titan, that's rich." "Shut up," A bright light shines in Selene's eyes. (P.O.V. Switch, Selene.) "The great Titan of the Moon, powerless, trapped inside a mortal's body." I felt utterly useless. "Oh quit your yammering." His voice boomed as the darkness was lit by orange flames. "Rage personified, does not need much to fly off his handle." "I just wanted to regain control over my moon from that mortal." "And you did, but at what cost, ETERNAL DAMNATION FOR THE WIN." He laughed. (P.O.V. Switch, Cress.) It had been a week since the rescue and Scoot and I had moved into the warehouse in downtown Ponyville. Monarch was sleeping at the castle with Luna, and Soren and Dancer had agreed to help me with renovation in exchange for room and board. "Damn, dusty." Dancer coughed. "Who would leave all this stuff," Soren said prying a crate open with a crowbar."I mean look at this, I could build tons of kick ass stuff." "For now, we'd settle for something that we can hit." I replied. "Yeah I wanna punch something." "Well that's gonna hafta wait, it's time for school." "Aw come on, Dad do I hafta go?" she whined. "Yes, you need to go, I'll take you, c'mon." "Fine," "You too Dancer," Soren said waving his wrench. "Aaaw, kay." Dancer's mood changed in half a second. "Don't blow up my house Soren!" I yell walking the fillies out the door. "No promises!" He replied starting his torch. "Same ol' same ol'." Dancer laughed. About ten minutes later I got them to the school, and saw Miss Cheerilee. "Good morning, Cress, who are these two?" "This is my daughter Scootaloo, and my niece Dancer. A word to the wise they're fighters so keep a good eye on them for me." "Don't worry I'll keep a good watch over them." "Thanks Cheerilee, I hafta run I'll be back later okay." "Okay see you later," I run back in the direction of Sugarcube Corner. "Bye Dad," "Bye Uncle Cress." "Bye girls!" (P.O.V. Switch, Pinkie.) I hear strange noises from outside, and decide to investigate. Using my Pinkie Keen senses, see what I did there? Anyway, I sneak around Ponyville, Mission Impossible style. Then itchy nose, "Bees, not the bees." A screaming stallion whizzed by, being chased by bees. "Heheheha, Looks like Honeybutter forgot to bring flowers." I still heard the weird noises, but they were louder. I skip in the direction they were coming from. Twitchy Tail, I stopped and looked up, clear skies. "Hm, my Pinkie sense has never been wrong before." 'WHUMP' There's something heavy on my back. "Hi Pinkie." She whispered in my ear. Ear flop, eye flutter, knee twitch, and bam opening door smacks him in the face, she fell to the ground clutching her nose. "In your face!" "Ow," "That's what you get, for sneakin' on the pinkin'." Cress laughed helping her up. "Morning, how's the renovation coming?" I asked relatively unphased by what just happened. "Pretty good, it's kinda hard to keep the girls busy," "Where are they?" "I just dropped them off at the school, you okay?" He turned his head to the mystery Mare. "It was a good hit." She chuckled. "It's not like you, to be floored by a door, Firefly. What are you even doing here?" Cress replied. (P.O.V. Switch, Firefly.) "My sources, you know the Mercado, somepony wants you dead, and they asked me to do it, but I refused." I reach into my pocket and pull out the poster. "Somepony's offering two million bits for your head, three if you're still alive. I came to warn you, whoever this is wants you out of the picture for good." I scan his reaction for any hint of falter, but none. "If she really has the entire Mercado out to get me, then we'll need a little help." Cress had that look in his eyes that I hated to see, he had an idea. (P.O.V. Switch, The Dreamer.) I open my eyes and sit up in bed."Man, what a weird dream, just who are all these characters." I look over to my alarm clock 8:00 AM. "Good I won't be late this time. "Why am I dreaming about horse people, kick ass horse people, I pull on my jeans, socks, shoes, and a semi dirty shirt from the floor. I shift my gaze to my computer and it was flashing that annoying, you got mail. I walk over and click the file, it reads, Dear Tobias, You have been having strange dreams of late, I want to be the first to tell you that you are not the only one, I have sent you this invitation for one reason, you are needed here, I beg of you, help us. Anonymous, "What do you mean?" I type and send, opening a chat window. "The truth of the matter is, your skills are desperately needed here." Anonymous replies. "There is no other qualified enough for the task we ask of you." "We, what would you have me do?" "Nothing too easy," "I'm in where, and when?" "Here and now." As I start to type the screen distorts and starts doing that matrix mirror thing, I knew not to touch it, cause if this was the matrix I don't wanna unplug, I like my mundane life. I slowly back away reaching for my toolbelt. "If I don't touch it I should be fine, just grab my tools and go to work, nothing complicated 'bout that." I click my belt around my waist and back into something that shouldn't be there, a tall man with long silver and gold hair. His piercing gaze sent chills down my spine. I back away back to the computer, and sit back down, as several girl's faces appear on the screen. "Hello there," The one with pink and purple hair said. "I was afraid you wouldn't answer." "I wasn't but your friend here made sure I did." "Well are you ready?" One with peach colored hair asked. "Considering I have nothing better to do, your wish is my command." The pink and purple haired one nodded to one with pink bedhead, and the screen started that matrix shit again. The image of a hand grew closer until it came out and grabbed me. "What the fuck!?" The hand started pulling me head first into my computer. I hook my legs onto the desk. "He's stuck," One shouted. I felt the man's hands push my feet through and I fly through a bright light and into a bookcase. Hundreds of books thicker than War and Peace rained down on me. "Is he okay," The peach haired one asked, still a little dizzy I look at her. She looked different, they all did. "He'll be fine." The man said stepping out of the screen across the room. "Are you sure, he took a lot of books to the head." The pink haired one cocked her head. As my vision cleared my grasp on the situation loosened even more. "RRRRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH." I screamed. "HOLY FUCK YOU'RE HORSES!!!!!!!!!!!!" (P.O.V. Switch, Cress) As Twilight was about to open her big mouth I covered it. "Let him get it out of his system," "Why is he so suprised he saw our faces." Rarity asked covering her ears. "On his side you looked human, and now that he's on our side he sees what we really are." "But wouldn't that make him look like us on our side?" Twilight uncovered her mouth to ask. "Naturally, I just used the Flame of Hephaestus to make him look human, so he doesn't freak out." "A little late fer that Sugarcube." "Ya think?" As we carry on a complete conversation, Tobias is screaming and then Pinkie starts, and then all Hades broke loose. "WHAT IS GOING ON, WHO ARE YOU WHY AM I HERE?" "Hey, shut up and listen, long story short, we need your help." "Wait a second I know you," He points at me. "You're Cressendo." "The messages got through, that's good, the less explainig we have to do the better." Dash pumped her fist. "This guy better be worth the trouble we went through to get him. "And then some."I walked over to him and helped him onto his feet. "Now as you may know I have a problem, that requires outside help. The Mercado is out for my head." "The entire Mercado." Firefly interrupted. "Not to mention your brother." "What about Scarab?" "Chrys has him following you around, she's got eyes and ears all over. Chapter 2: Suspicions.Chapter 2: Suspicions, (POV Switch, Tobias) "What do you want from me, I can't compete with you." I asked a little confused. "I mean you have the gods on your side." "I may have the gods, but you have something I could never dream of possessing, the Titans." "What are you talking about, the Titans were locked away ages ago." The purple one interrupted. "Twilight, where were they sealed?" Cress asked in a sarcastic tone. "Um, well, I don't know." She was flabbergasted. "This kid has all of the Titans living inside." "But that makes no sense that would make him," "Five-thousand years old." A black one with wings and a horn was leaning in the doorway. "The Titans were never sealed, they were transfered," "You mean," Twilight's jaw dropped. "Yes, by way of soul transfer, into this sorry excuse for a demigod." He seemed angry. "Hold on a minute, Demigod what the hell are you all talking about I'm just a normal guy, no special powers, no family except my sister, my sister! You have to take me back, I can't leave her alone." "If I take you back you have to promise to come back with her." "Whatever man just take me back." "Twilight, Pinkie, ready the portal, there's one more we need to find." The pink one was fitted with wires while Twilight's horn began to glow, turning the orange screen blue. In seconds I was picked up and thrown through my computer and into a wall. The noise woke my sister and she ran to my room. "Toby, are you okay." Sabrina stood in my doorway in her pajamas. "Yeah I'm fine, pack your things we're going on a little trip." "Okay Toby, how long?" "A week at least," Sabrina smiled and ran to her room." "How old is she?" Cress asked as he stepped out of the computer. "Six," I reply grabbing my suitcase and filled it with essential supplies. "May I ask what happened to your parents?" "Well, it's kind of a sore subject, but our father was killed six years ago when she was born, and our kother died during childbirth." "So you were left with all of that responsibility, I know it doesn't mean much but I'm sorry for your loss." "It means more than you think. Sabrina are you ready?" "Just about," "Close enough c'mere!" "Yeah Toby," She walked in with a suprised look on her face. "How'd you get in here?" Cress pointed to my orange computer screen, HA Portal reference. "Really?" I nod. "Is that were we're going?" "Yep." I say with a smile. "Grab your bags." I lean over the keyboard and type. Everything's fine get ready for our return. Sabrina ran in holding her bags, and waited for the proof. I slowly put my hand through the portal and get sucked in. As I step out the other end I'm followed by Cress who's cradling a pony. "You look different," She said to Cress. "I look different. Am I a pony?" "Not quite." I reply. "Not the ones we're used to." I watched as her eyes widened and her smile covered half of her face. She hopped out of his arms and bolted around the room. (P.O.V. Switch, Sabrina) "You're Twilight Sparkle." I said to the purple one. "Yes I am," "And you're, I ran to the blue pegasus. "Rainbow Dash." "My reputation precedes me." "And Pinkie Pie," I ran to Pinkie and she gave me a big hug. "And Fluttershy, Rarity, and Applejack!" "How do you know our names?" Twilight asked. "Where we come from we can watch a show that tells us all about your adventures," "Is that right?" "It is true," The black Alicorn, said. "It was Celes' idea, and Pinkie was in on it," Pinkie was grinning ear to ear. "That explains what humans call breaking the fourth wall." "Oh I get it," Twilight said. "That's all fine and dandy, but most of us don't got our noses in books twenty-four sev'n." "Breaking the fourth wall is a character in a book or play that knows they're in a book or play. Like if there was a play about a pony, that character would know they were in a play." "But they are in the play, it's about them." Rarity fluffed her hair. "Look forward, how many walls do you see," "Three," Rarity paused for a moment. "Oh I see, if you see three walls you are the fourth, and when somepony talks to you they are speaking to the fourth wall, and if you are on the other side it's breaking it, they may not see you but they know you're there." "Exactly." The black one said. "I am Monarch, envoy of the Lunar Kingdom, it's a pleasure," "Good afternoon Monarch, where's Luna?" "Oh out with Nebula, I think they're waiting at Carousel for you Madamoiselle Rarity, something about getting Nebula some fitting clothes for a prince." "Oh my stars royal business, I don't want to keep them waiting, au revoir." Rarity jolted up and ran for the door. "Hey, go easy on my son," (P.O.V. Switch, Nebula) A light blue unicorn stood panting at the door of the boutique. "My apologies Princess, Prince, I was otherwise engaged." As I watched her catch her breath I couldn't help but to stare at her incredible beauty. "Quite alright, Rarity we are in no hurry." Rarity her name matched her beautyiful body. "You know my name?" "Of course, you saved my life." "You are welcome, come in come in, I have many suits and if those do not suit your needs I can have one personally tailored for you in one hour." "One hour, that's a bit excessive don't you think?" I ask. "No, no, no, it's no trouble at all I do that for all my clientelle." "Yeah all ten of 'em." I heard a small unicorn say from the spiral staircase. "Sweetie Belle," Rarity growled. "You're supposed to be sick!" "Eep" The small one ran up the stairs. "Excuse my sister she can be difficult at times, but thank Celestia she's just here for a few hours." "Nebula be a dear and look at the selection, whilst I chat with Rarity." (P.O.V. Switch, Monarch) "You have a son!?" Twilight's eyes were wide while Applejack was smiling wryly. "Luna was pregnant when she was banished to the moon." "That explains why he looked like you, and why the shadow ponies exist." "That's right, Luna wanted somepony for him to play with, so she used the darkside as a medium, creating a kingdom and filling it with ponies." Everypony was silent leaning on the edge of their seats waiting for more. "You two what are your names, and how are you Alicorns?" "I am?" The blue one reached for his horn, and flapped his wings. "I am." "My name is Sabrina, the violet one said as she bowed. "This is my big brother, Toby." "Hm, these are your important guests," "Yes," Cress replied. "I better get going it's almost three," "Rarity should be finishing up in about half an hour." Twilight said. "Good, then she can start on mine." I walk outside toward Carousel. (P.O.V. Switch, Cress.) "Tobias, Sabrina stay here with Twilight, I'll be back in twenty minutes." "Goin' ta the school house?" "Yes I am," "It's 'bout time fer it to be over, better get Applebloom." "Let's go." Applejack wrapped her arm in mine and we walked toward the school. "Applebloom's your sister right?" "Yup, she's a mite depressed though." "Really, why?" "Everypony in her class has their cutie marks already." "What exactly is a cutie mark?" "Well, when somepony finds that special somethin' that makes them diff'rent they get one a these," She raised her leg showing three apples like herr brother's but red. "It lets everypony know what you can do that nopony else can." "Fascinating, we don't get those," "Why in tarnation not?" "Our bodies constantly change I'm sure if we had one it would show up somewhere on our disguises and blow our cover." "Shame, nopony else will know yer special talents." "That's the point AJ." we arrived just as the bell was ringing, and the children shuffled outside. "Dad," "Uncle Cress," Applejack let go just in time not to be glomped by the two six-year old fillies. "I was only gone for five hours," "They seem quite attatched to you, Cress." Cheerilee walked over and pulled them off me. "How much damage?" "Oh, they were angels," "That's good," "Your definition of angels must be a little different from mine, Cheer." A beige mare said as she walked out. "Those two were difficult to say the least, but you know me I love a challenge." "Allow me to introduce Tanya Mare, the mayor's daughter." "Pleasure to meet you, Tanya." I hold out my hand. "It was not a pleasure to meet your children." She said taking my hand and shaking it. "I'll make sure they'll behave, when we go to Canterlot," I loved watching Scoot's face light up, they many joys of being a father. "C'mon let's leave Tanya to recouperate, she'll need the rest." I wink to her and walk the girls back to the warehouse. I open the door and take one step inside before tripping over cables. "Watch your step," Soren shouted dangling from an I-beam. "Not done with flooring yet, gonna take a few days, just for the ceiling rails, and the elevator system." "How long have you been up there, Soren?" I shouted. "When'd you leave." "Six hours ago." "Then six hours, I got bored," "Why can't you play games or go out, you've been cooped up in here all week." Scoot shouted runnig up the stairs, to his Crystal system. "Because," "Because why?" "Just because," "Just because why?" "Because I can." "You can go outside, why not?" "Because," "Because why?" "Oh not this shit again!" He dangled upside-down tugging at his mane. "Fine just shut up!" "Why?" "RaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH." I couldn't help but brohoof my daughter and laugh. Chapter 3: The Big Reveal.Chapter 3: The Big Reveal. (P.O.V. Switch, Soren.) "You guys are so aggravating." I scream. "Runs in the family." Cress hi-fived his kid. "See that button that says Crane controls" "Yeah," Dancer pushed Scootaloo out of my chair. "Press it follow the instructions." "Okay." She pressed the button and the crane came on. The beam I was on lowered and moved toward the command deck. The loud machine puffed and whirred as it stopped at the deck. I jumped off and landed next to my controls. "Why couldn't you just fly?" Scootaloo asked. "I haven't perfected hover flight yet, and it's gonna be hard when all I have are blueprints." "C'mon, there's some ponies I'd like you to meet before we go to Canterlot." Cress signalled for us to leave. "We, do I hafta?" I groan. "Yes It's imperitive for you be with us," "Fine, it's not like I have anything better to do." "That's better," Scootaloo did parkour over the railing and walls landing next to Cress in seconds. "C'mon slowpokes, time's a waistin'." Dancer smiled and did the same thing but with grace. "Why the buck not?" With a running start I clear the railing and flipped through the air swinging from dangling cables, and landing with the grace of an elephant. "Let's get this over with." Cress led us to the library. "I've already met the librarian, she's pretty cute, and smart." "You like her, don't you Soren?" "No," He raised an eyebrow. "Okay maybe, but I don't think I'm her type." "Don't know if you don't ask," Cress reassured as he opened the door. What I saw was I'll admit strange, two Alicorns a blue stallion and a purple filly. "I would like to introduce Tobias and Sabrina." "Those names are human, where did you find humans?" "How do you know about humans?" "I've lived on the moon not under a rock, parallel dimension technology still flusters me, how'd you get it to work?" "It was me-ee." The pink one was bouncing around higher than a superball. "Damn you bounce higher than a superball." The blue one took the words right out of my mouth. "Let me through, Scootaloo was squeezing between my legs, and rolled in front of the one I assumed was Sabrina. "Hi there I'm,.." "Scootaloo," "How did you know?" "Magic," She pointed to her horn. "That makes sense." "She's a natural," I whisper to Tobias. "Yeah, I'm still floored that this place is real, but the one on TV is alot different than this one." "You're probably looking into a different dimension, or your dimension has a filter, I would like to believe the latter." "We should get going," Cress said. "Right with ya." I walk over to him. "Coming," The three fillies replied in unison and ran over to us." "Let's get this over with," Tobias was like me, could he be the human version of myself? He had the aditude, and he did sound like me. "Can you fly with those," "What?" "Can you fly with those wings alone, or do you have another source of propulsion?" "I have hi speed propulsion but," "Hover propulsion keeps flooring you." "Yeah, how did you?" "Tell you what, after this whole Canterlot thing, I'll take a look at it, maybe two gearheads can get a working prototype, I mean think of all the good hover tech can do for mankind, I mean ponykind." (P.O.V. Switch, Tobias.) Tobias' mental log, day one, these creatures aren't much different from humans, some are kind, while others not so much. Then there's the whole thing with Cress, I am seriously not buying the whole Titans thing, but I'll just play along maybe I can get some kind of answer from these Princesses. As I stare out the train window my mind escapes me, for the first time I felt happy, it had been too long to remember the last time I felt like this. "You know I've tried the whole inner monologue thing, doesn't work as well as you'd think." Soren broke the silence. "Yeah, I just needed to think," "So how are you adjusting to this whole alternate dimension?" "I guess, alright Sabrina's doing better than I am." I watch as Sabrina talks and laughs with the other two little ones. "That's because she has imagination, a loosened grip on reality, you however had to grow up, and when you grow up it's hard to stay a child at heart, while your head grows for responsibility." Soren's words softened the blow of culture shock, was I really that close minded. The train slowed to a halt and the doors slid open, reminded me of a subway train. Everyone else rose to their hooves and shuffled out the doors out into the station. I decided to follow into Canterlot Central Station, and find the others. I was bumped and thrown in all directions by angry ponies. One knocked me to the ground but stopped to help me up and apologized. "I'm sorry Dude didn't see ya there," The white unicorn with a neon blue mane held out her hand. "Name's Vinyl, I was kinda in a hurry, pickin' up this last part for my turntable maintenence, now I'm back to Ponyville, catchya on the flipside," "Bye," I shouted as she turned away and ran for the train sliding between the closing doors. "It's hard to find ones like that," A female voice sounded from behind, by instinct I turn to find a black mare with a crooked horn. "Who are you, what do you want?" "Oh just a passerby, someone who knows more than she should, human." "How do you know?" "I know quite a lot oh naive child, you will help me, in exchange for one wish, anything you desire and I shall give it, all you have to do is help me find my brother." "Anything?" Her offer did pique my interest. "Yes anything, you have three weeks to weigh your options, choose carefully, the right choice shall be rewarded, while the other will cost you dearly, remember that," "How will I reach you?" "You don't have to, your days are numbered make sure that number is not twenty-one." She backed away into the crowd and disappeared, as Cress walked up beside me. "Good I found you, come your audience awaits your performance." He patted my back and led me toward the castle. Chapter 4: Process Of Elimination.Chapter 4: Process Of Elimination. (P.O.V. Switch, Chrysalis.) Five days ago. "He's late again," I was slowly losing my patience with Scarab. "He's always late." I look out the window next to my throne, why had all this transpired my life's dream, to rule over these mindless drones, yet I feel like an exoskeleton! My fist slammed into my armrest. "Guard, come here please." The double doors slowly creaked open as a guard poked his head through. "Yes my Queen," "I'm bored, entertain me," He slowly stepped in and shut the door behind him. I reach for my knife and throw it at him, in seconds it sinks between his eyes, that sickening crack and the squish of slicing skin, warmed my heart and a smile crept across my face, I rise from my throne and saunter to his lifeless corpse, and raise his head. The look of pain, terror, and what's this, yearning. His soulless eyes still had a hint of happiness, I rip the blade through his face as his blood drenched mine. "Refreshing, but not quenching." A loud knocking fell upon my door, as I dragged my kill back into my territory and proudly displayed it sitting next to the throne. "Come in," I sigh as I sit down. The doors slowly open to Scarab, dressed in his battlestead. "How nice of you to grace me with your presence brother." "My apologies but it was difficult to track the quarry, he has new companions, ones that make it hard to get close," "New companions, why should they mean anything to me," "One, should mean something, Monarch." Upon hearing that name my eyes narrow and a wry smile crosses my face. "The legendary Sword Master, that may play into my advantage, who else?" "Well he has a metal pegasus, it sounds strange but I've seen him with my own two eyes." "Does he have any other companions that I need worry about?" "No, but," He paused. "But What Scarab?" "He's faster, stronger, and smarter," "Damn, the prophecy is coming to fruition." "What prophecy?" "That there will be one ruler that can call upon not only the Flame but the other traits of the gods as well, but let's make sure he does not call upon the Life Bringer," I shift in my seat. "Bring me Mosquitoz, and Nightshade." "But Nightshade isn't one of us." "You dare question the Queen," "Okay, I'm sorry, it's just Nightshade and I aren't on speaking terms," "Your relationship with that pony is not my business, bring her here, now!" "Yes your majesty right away." Brother bowed his head and slowly backed away through the doors. "Dammit, it was supposed to be me, I'm supposed to be the Ruler, the signs all point to me." I stand and walk for my personal dungeon entrance. I raise the trap door and step down. The musty air did nothing for my mood, as I reached the bottom of the stairwell the prisoners scattered like roaches, I walk by each cell as the prisoners looked on in fear. I stopped at one and stared at the bright green cocoon inside. The stallion inside shifted to the small hole big enough for his head to fit through. "You're the spitting image of Xeroxa." The elderly stallion said. "I don't have time for pleasantries, answer my questions." "No foreplay, pity, ask and I shall do my best to answer your many questions." "Where did my brother get that amulet?" "Amulet, hmn, I don't recall seeing him with one." "Don't play dumb I know you, Starswirl The Bearded." "Well if you're going to be that way, I gave it to him he was ten times the ruler you'll ever be, at three years of age. He deserves the power it wields," "What power?" He was trying my patience. "A power that rivals the god's," "Interesting, thank you for your insight, now if you'll excuse me places to go ponies to kill, and who knows maybe I'll pay a visit to your grandson." "Leave Armour out of this, he's done nothing to you!" He shouted as I walked toward the stairs. (POV Switch, Starswirl.) "She's going to do something brash, and I can't do anything to stop her." I struggled to widen the head hole, but to no avail. I close my eyes and breath deep, I open them to a black room. "It has been quite some time, since you called upon the Council, bearded one." Zeus sat in the middle, his lightning bolt scar crossing his chest, his white hair and beard like my own. "Yes it has," Poseidon leaned his trident on the wall, and took his throne of ice. "What can we do for you," Hephaestus stood in the corner, exhaling flames and leaning on his hammer. "I fear that the world is in grave danger," "How so bearded one?" Zeus asked stroking his beard. "He means that someone is misusing our gifts," Hephaestus staggered to his anvil shaped throne and sat. "Like that Chrysalis character," "My gifts to the pegasi have been used properly," Zeus reassured me. "I created this place as a sanctuary, like you with the humans, brother." Poseidon spoke. "And you with Pandora," "You know as well as I do how much pride you have in your creations," Hephaestus was steaming. "Please calm down, the Council is a place of consult," Zeus boomed. "Thank you Zeus, Chrysalis is not the only creature I have worries about, The herald of Dionysus, has been scheming of late, I fear he may be planning something." "That Discord has no place here, if Pandora had never opened that box," Poseidon's rage was like the ocean. "It's not my fault she was curious." "That is beside the point what we can only do is hope that our heralds will be strong enough to combat him," Zeus thought out loud but still had his doubts, I could tell. "Combat him I have no doubt, but defeat him I do, I think it is time to bring in some help." "Ask and ye shall recieve bearded one." "The children, the time has come to break the first seal," "That is easier said than done my friend." Hephaestus conjured a black flame, this is unsettling, the Titans have already awoken, was it wise to seal them inside such a fragile prison?" "If what you say is true than we may have armageddon to look toward." Zeus was troubled. "So I say we cash in our chips while the cashin's good." Hermes stood at the door dressed in a track suit and rollerblades. "Plus it's about time we brought the kid back," "Hermes quick to the trigger as always, well you will be the one to fetch him." "Where does he reside in the realm of humans?" "You're going to have to find him on your own," "Good, wouldn't want it to be easy." Hermes turned and skated off into the darkness. Chapter 5: The World ParallelChapter 5: The World Parallel. (P.O.V. Switch, Hermes.) I stare off into the expanse of sky around Olympus, clouds drifting upon the breeze. I step to an outcropping and dangle my feet over the edge, and begin playing my reeds. The beautiful music echoed throughout Olympus, as the hawks flew above. This music was one of the few joys of being a god I had. Too much work and no play makes Hermes bored. I stop playing and put the reeds back into my pouch, and stand to find someone I knew quite well, Ares. "Good morning, Hermes." The armor clad war god said shaking my hand. "As with you, Ares how goes the the war effort?" "It's difficult to say, humans are quite resilient," "Wouldn't want this to be too easy would we?" I pat his back and we shared a laugh. "Now I gotta get back to work," I smile and send him on his way, minus a little gold from his money pouch. "Still got it," I dive off the outcropping and feel the wind through my hair, the fifty-thousand foot drop always made my blood boil and my adrenaline rush. As I fly closer to the mountain I flip to skate down the side, these humans really know how to live. In seconds I skidded to a halt at the foot of Olympus, changing my appearance only slightly to blend in with the crowd. "This place sure has changed since I was here last, Greece isn't so ancient anymore." A city full of humans lay at the mountain foot. I walked through the city taking some money here some fruit there, while leaving none the wiser. I chomp on an apple watching for any signs of the kid, none. "He did like Manehaten, so the human equivalent Manhaten, that's totally original." I I walk to the docks and skim over the ocean. Hours later I made it to Manhatten, and swipe a local paper, and read the headline. Local teenager brings home the championship title for America, Techno Bassboost returned yesterday from Tokyo, Japan with the Chapionship for the international martial arts tournament and is proud of his accomplishment. "I never dreamed of getting past state, but then nationals, and internationals, I never knew I was that good." The truth is he was phenominal, if you ask this reporter he's the best fighter in the world, but that's just my opinion, Techno has promised to give thanks for the support to each and every one of his family and friends. I folded the paper and tossed it into a trashcan, and walked toward a small shop. I pushed open the door as a large man stood up from the desk in the corner. "Hello, how may I help you, today?" "Formal as always, Aaron." I remove my fedora and smile at him." "Hello Hermes, what brings you from Olympus?" "The kid, it's time." "So soon," "You have two weeks to say goodbye, if you wish I can shepherd your entire family over, for a price." "It's always business, Hermes we accept your offer, on one condition," "And that would be, what exactly." "Teach him," "What would you give me in return?" "I will give you something more valuable than ambrosia." "You have my attention," I smiled wryly and shook his hand. "It's a deal." I turn and walk toward the door, wondering what gift a mortal can bestow to a god. (P.O.V. Switch, Monarch.) Present "Did you have to be so rough?" "Why of course darling, you have to be quite thorough when dealing with clients such as yourselves." Rarity flipped through a book of fabric swatches. "Ah that's perfect, now run along it's almost time for you to be in Canterlot, I will send the suits to the castle as soon as they are finished, expect them this evening." As she pushes me out the door I feel her hand drift lower and pinch me. "Au Revoir, Rarity." I turn and bow as Luna walks through the door with Nebula. "We must be going, we wouldn't want the guests arriving before the hosts now would we." I place my hands on their shoulders and grant them the speed of Hermes for a short time. "Everything's so slow," "Since when can you use the speed of Hermes?" Luna was impressed I had learned such a high level spell. "And use it on others?" "A little side effect from being inside Cress' head for fifteen years." "What does that mean?" Nebula was confused. "I'll explain later, just focus on the castle," "Okay Father," He closed his eyes and disappeared, Luna and I held hands and did the same. In seconds we arrived in the throne room, Luna took her seat next to Celes, and I took mine next to hers. Nebula sat next to me. "That was awesome," "I know just wait till I show all the other shit I can do." A loud knocking fell upon the doors as they creaked open, The Elements with the exception of Rarity came through first, followed by Cress and Soren, and finally the demigods. Celes was shocked to see the demigods, and was a little angry. "Good afternoon Princesses," Twilight clearred her throat. "And Prince." "Pinkemina Diane Pie, Explain your reason." Celes seemed a bit peeved. "I'm sorry it's just I had a feeling," I could see Pinkie was hesitant. "You know very well that it is dangerous to have them here." "I know but," "While I do not condone the use of your 'special' talents in such a manner you must have a good reason." "Yes a very good reason." I crossed my legs and waited in an attempt to egg her on. "Well it's kinda complicated," Pinkie was desperately searching for the right words to explain their current situation. "You see uh well," For the first time she was speechless. "I think I may be able to shed some light on the situation," A male voice echoed through the room. I heard a rustling in the rafters and stood. "But you'll have to catch me first." The voice taunted as I turned my gaze upward. I concentrate on the voice and draw my sword. (P.O.V. Switch, Rainbow.) That voice it sounded so familiar but where have I heard it before? I keep my guard up scanning the rafters for signs of movement. Monarch, sword in hand flew up and started swinging. The shadow threw him down to the ground. He landed as I heard a loud snap, I bolted over to find his face, was cracked. "Are you okay?" "Yeah I'm fine, nothing a little lotion won't cure." He struggled to move his arm, but nothing. "That's it no more miss nice mare." I bolted straight up, landing on a support beam the shadow appeared. "You'll regret touching my friend." "Would you look at that little Rainbow thinks she can take me," "How do you know my name?" "Well I know quite a lot about each one of you, your hopes, your dreams, your nightmares." I lunge for him and swing my fist. "Can't touch me," He laughed. "Quit it, stand still so I can kick your ass!" This guy was pissing me off. "My, My you're a fiesty one aren't you, you're every bit your father." "Shut up I'm nothing like my father." His words cut deep too deep. "My father left me out to dry like his dirty laundry!" Tears rolled down my face as I lunged again, this time my fist connected, with his hand. He raised me up and threw me across the room through one of the stained glass windows. "Is that all you got?" The shadow stepped into the light revealing a human. "I've fought butterflies stronger than you." "You," I sit up my body impaled with shards of glass. "Take it back." "You need to hear the truth, young one." His hand grasped my chin and he pulled me up out of the rubble. "You are useless, if you truly wish to defeat me you must accept your role in all of this." "That's enough!" Cress shouted from the gaping hole. "Now you're gonna get it." I spit in his face before he throws me back through another window. (P.O.V. Switch, Cress.) "You have no place here," I fly out and land in front of the creature. "And who's gonna kick me out, you don't make me laugh." "You will leave you have hurt too many." I reach for my knife and lunged. "Too slow," He slipped past me with such ease, as I felt a blade plunge into my back piercing a lung. I fell to my knees as the air rushed out the hole and blood flowed out my mouth. "Look at that, all dressed up and nowhere to go." He laughed. "Not, dead yet." My eyes flamed over white and my wound healed instantly. I slowly stood to my hooves and slashed at his face drawing blood. "But you will be soon." I plunge my knife into his stomach and he falls over my shoulder. "You will not die today, you will live as punishment." I throw him to the ground and his smile disturbed me. "You have no idea who you're dealling with, mortal." "Cocky prick, tell Zeus what transpired here today," "How," "I am no mere mortal, you shall regret trying to kill the Gifted." "Oh Shit," He backs away slowly. "Don't kill me." "Why should I spare you?" "I'll tell you everything, just don't kill me." "Well," I ponder a moment as Hermes is electrocuted, wounds healing. "You have a deal." "You really are the Gifted." "And this is for Rainbow Dash." I grab his neck, slam him on the ground, and throw him through the castle wall. I quickly fly to Rainbow and her life was fading. I place my hand over her heart and focused sending the storm of Zeus through her body. It began to convulse under the intense voltage. Her eyes shot open and she gasped for air. "Thank Hephaestus." "Did I win?" She seemed normal but her mind was elsewhere. "Yes you did." I wrapped my arms around her and squeezed tight. "How did you do that?" Twilight's eyes were wide open. "The Storm Of Zeus." Luna said kneeling over Monarch's body. "Hey buddy," I kneel beside Monarch. "How're you feeling?" "Hollow," "Let's see if we can fix that," I cracked my knuckles and focused on both the Flame, and the Storm. His body was struck with lightning and was set ablaze. His fragile body melted, as it took a skeletal form, I raised my hand slightly and used tapestry as a medium for muscle tissue stitching his muscles back together strand by strand. I lower my hand as the large curtain starts to unravel and wrap around his body, his flesh and black fur materialized as his eyes opened. With the one ounce of strength I had left I pulled a suit of armor from the wall and placed him inside. My vision grew dark and my hearing lost. Chapter 6: Mortality LostChapter 6: Mortality Lost. I heard the faint sound of beeping and open my eyes. I feel movment at my side and find Scoot hanging off the edge of the bed, and Felicia asleep at the bedside. I look around to find Firefly asleep in the corner. Scoot's eyes slowly opened and her face lit up when she saw I was okay. "Thank Celestia you're okay!" She wrapped her arms around me and was shedding tears of joy. The sudden change in volume made Firefly fall out of her chair. Felicia opened her eyes and she hugged me too. "We were so worried," The combined force of their being worried was cushing my ribs. "Can't breath," "Sorry," Felicia backed away with a smile. "Looks like you're awake, I must say you're quite resilient." Hermes was sitting on the window sill. "Who are you," Firefly had her sword drawn. "Settle down Firefly, he's a, friend." "Well, now that you're conscious I can leave." "Not before you tell us why you are here Messenger god." Monarch stood in the doorway. "But not here," "Fine," Hermes raised his hands and flicked his wrists and we were all back at the castle. "Will this location suffice?" "Yes it will," Celestia glared at him. "I must speak with you four and you alone." "Agreed." Luna seemed high and mighty as usual. "Felicia take Scoot, I have some business to attend to." "Okay, don't take too long." "I won't, promise." "Aaw but we just got here," "Come on, let's go see the Wonderbolt derby," "Really," Scoot's mood changed in seconds and they ran off. "Spill it," Monarch growled. "Cressendo your amulet, where did you get it?" "Some pony down in the dungeon slipped it in my bag when I was little." "Who was this pony?" "I don't remember his name, what's with all the questions?" "That pony was Starswirl The Bearded," "He's still alive?" Celestia was shocked. "How is that possible?" "The Flame, as long as the fire burns light will shine." Monarch seemed to know more than everyone in the room. "If he's still alive and kicking, it stands to reason that he's trying to send a message." "His grandson," "You mean Bassboost, he's been missing for years," "Not missing, with the humans, he's been on the other side. bettering his skills, but his convienient case of amnesia, keeps him wondering why." "What are you saying, that we can't handle it here?" "Not me, Starswirl he asked me personally to send the messages, You have ten days until he arrives then all Hades'll break loose." Hermes turned and disappeared. "Ten days," I walk to the window overlooking the gardens. "Then what?" "I don't know but I'm glad you'll be here to enjoy the ride." Monarch patted my back and smiled. "Now go fetch your gear, we have alot of work to do." He backed away and turned to Luna and Celestia. "If all Hades is gonna break loose we need to be prepared." "Can I bring a few others?" "Of course, the more we have the better chances." "That was awesome, Thanks Felicia." Scoot and Felicia walked in through the gates. Scoot was wearing a foam finger and Wonderbolt goggles. She ran over to me and gave me a big hug. "She likes you, I can tell, she'd make a great mom." The words that came from her mouth floored my thought process. "Are you sure?" "Yeah, we waited in your room for all four days, you saw her when you woke up. She was all over you." "Well I'll think about it okay?" "Okay." "Now about training, Monarch and I will be teaching some other ponies and I was wondering if you'd be my personal student." Her face lit up as the words escaped my mouth. "When do we start?" "Tomorrow, let's go home, you're welcome to join us Felicia." "Um, okay." Her face was flush red as she smiled, My arms around both of them we headed to the train station, and enjoyed the ride back to Ponyville . (P.O.V. Switch, Tobias) Tobias' log day four, I had no idea the technology here would be this advanced. This Soren has done quite well to keep my mind challenged, we may have finally had a breakthrough on his hover tech but we still have to build a prototype, that Vinyl pony showed up yesterday and helped us wire up a sound system, and three others came by this morning, Quickfix, Gearhead, and Carpenter, strange names but they really fit them. "Hey we could use some help here!" Soren yelled from the first floor. "Alright give me a minute." I hit save and vault over the railing using my wings as a parachute. "What's next?" "Not much Carpenter's almost finished with the floors, Quickfix and Gearhead are almost finished with the terrain controls, you can help me with the gravity control system." "Your tech is really that advanced?" "I don't mean to brag but yeah, moon tech is quite the accomplishment." He led me to a console in a room off to the side, which I guessed used to be an office. "Humans are centuries away from this stuff." "Really, I would have thought you would have something close." He pulled off the front panel exposing wires. "The Grav generators are on the fritz." "Can I see your blueprints?" "Sure," He shuffled through a file cabinet and pulled out the plans of the Grav unit circuitry. "It's baffling everything is correct." I quickly skim over the plans and found the problem. "AC or DC?" I asked not looking up. "What," He sounded confused. "These plans don't say whether it's powered by Alternating Current, or Direct Current, besides there are no variables if you are programming it to this console as a control unit, they wouldn't work anyhow, the gravity would stay set at one G." "That's genious, are you sure Humans don't know about this kind of tech?" "I don't know too many top secret government scientists," "Well what would you recommend?" "First we need to program the console, What type of code are you using?" "Hexadecimal," I sit at the Crystal system plugged to the console. Crystal System engaged. Project Grav Generator. Input code. I quickly type in the codes I feel best starting with, and save them to memory. Test Initiated. The generator whirred and my body felt slightly heavier. 1.2 Gs. I reach for the console dial and turn it. 1.5 Gs. "It works, I've been trying to fix that for days." "I don't mean to brag but, I know alot about programming, but it still baffles me how you were able to do this." "Well anything can be magnetic if you change it's electric charge, these generators emit flux waves, while not powerful enough to stick you to the floor they do strain your muscles," "Via the iron in your blood, that's genius." "You catch on quick, better turn the gravity back to normal." Soren turned the dial and the strain lifted. "Wouldn't want to catch anypony off guard." I finally had someone to talk to, someone who shared my intellect, someone who was exactly like me, wait parallel dimension means there are exact copies of our personalities in different bodies and situations. He wasn't like me, he was me! Chapter 7: Even The Enemy Can Be HeroicChapter 7: Even The Enemy Can Be Heroic.(P.O.V. Switch, Starswirl.) I had waited for what felt like days no food, no water, yet I was never starved. This prison of skin somehow kept me alive, it's warmth did nothing to calm my nerves, how long was Hermes going to make me wait. I heard the trapdoor open, and unfamiliar hoofsteps. The stride suggested a male of the species, while the sound suggested a behemoth. As the figure stepped in front of my cell I could not help questioning why he had come for me. His hand was as big as my entire head and reached to open the door. The behemoth ripped the door off its hinges, and set it against the wall behind him. "Your Time has come, Sorceror." His deep voice echoed. "Has it," "Come with me," He stepped into the cold light of the cocoon, his figure was everything his silhouette was. The behemoth stood clad in navy blue armor with gold trim. His helmet was adorned with two large horns, similiar to a Heracles beetle's. "I would but I am otherwise engaged." "That is a simple solution." He raises his massive fist and puts it through the cocoon shattering it and freeing me. "Come with me," "May I ask to where?" I slowly rise to my knees and then to my hooves. "That is on a need to know basis." He leaned down to one knee,still dwarfing me in size and unlocked my iron shackles leaving the one on my horn clasped tight. "Is it wise to unshackle me." "Your horn is your weapon yes?" "Yes." "Then I am safe, for the time being." He turned and pulled on the chain connected to my horn, I walked behind him as his hulking mass walked through the tunnels, I had wondered why the tunnels were so large, so the Behemoths can take the prisoners to the chopping block. This one however felt different, his demeanor was calm, it was like he was his own. "I know you are confused Sorceror, but all will become clear in due time." Was that a hint of reassurance I heard in his voice, it was like he actually cared. These Changelings are such a complicated species. "Wait a moment." He released the chain and poked his head through the door. "Good no one's there, that'll make this much easier." He stepped back and grasped the chain and pulled. "You don't have to be so rough," The shackle was chipping my horn. "My apologies, Sorceror." He actually apologized, for the first time in one thousand years I heard those words. "Quickly we must hurry before the Queen returns." He pushed the door open and climbed through. "Grab on I don't want to snap your horn." He gave me some slack and I wrapped my fingers around the chain as he pulled me up. "That was the easy part, now for the fun part." "What are you trying to do," "You do not belong here," "I came here to learn, nothing more." My scientist instinct would not let me leave. "And you shall," The familiar voice sounded as the doors opened to Chrysalis and her personal guards. "Damn, I was sure I shut her out." The Behemoth's eyes showed anger through his helmet. "You did but you made one fatal mistake." "And that would be?" The Behemoth drew his blade. "Waltzing through the dungeon, tends to make guards suspicious of your actions," Chrysalis strolled down the aisle like a bride on her wedding day. "And you know me anything that happens in my Hive, I know about it." "This is not your Hive, you stole it, I know the truth." The Behemoth backed toward me sword drawn in defense. "The truth, bah, no truth just perspective, I didn't steal it, I merely retrieved what was mine." "Lies," The Behemoth dropped a small crystal and kicked it to me. "Free yourself." I kneel down and pick up the crystal and place it in the notch I had found years before. The restraint fell to ground as my horn sparked to life. The blinding light and raw power threw me into a wall. "Are you alright Sorceror?" "Yes, now I say we bust some heads." I focus my magic on one guard as his head explodes in a glorious display of guts and glitter. "My my the peaceful unicorn shows his true colors, I think it's time I show mine." Chrysalis grabbed one of her guards and bit down on his neck. Her body began to shift and burst out muscles growing larger, skin stretching, laughing like a maniac, her bones snapped and reformed in a bestial shape. Her shoulder blades sharpened and pushed through her skin. She was no longer a beautiful creature but an abomination to creation itself. The hulking mass that stood in front of us breathing heavy, It turned it's head revealing it's deep green soulless eyes. They stared deep into my soul may body was trembling out of control, fear an emotion I had not felt for years overtook me. It's jaw split as it reached for another guard and swallowed it whole, growing larger. It's teeth were razors, it breathed in and let out a bellow that shook my very being. I manage to turn my head to the one who had saved me, his hands tightly gripped to his blade. His eyes were filled with the same emotion but he stood firm, his courage was commendable but not even an entire army of dragons could keep her occupied for a few moments. "You don't scare me," "My, my the Captain isn't afraid, I can read you like a book. There is nothing you can do to stop me," I found the courage to stand my body still shaking. "What can you possibly do to us." "Many things, but why just one." She could sense my fear. "Fear, my favorite snack," Her hulking hand reached for me, but was greeted by a slash from the Behemoth's blade. "You will be the first to fall Captain," Her fingers thick as logs slowly wrapped around him, I could hear his snapping bones, as he struggled not to scream. He was lifted to her face. "You are powerful but you still need a reminder of whose side you're on." Her chest heaved as green fire escaped her lips burning the Behemoth alive, his screams echoed throughout the castle. "ENOUGH!" My body had stopped trembling as my voice took on the royal decibel. My mane sparked with electricity, fire danced at my hooves, the water in the air froze, the earth beneath crumbled, and the air whipped around my horn. "RELEASE HIM," "Would you look at that," She threw the Behemoth to the ground, and grinned a demonic smile. "I MAY NOT BE STRONG ENOUGH TO KILL YOU, BUT I HAVE TO TRY!" I cast the Wings of Icarus spell, as pegasus wings sprout from my back I bolt to the skies. "WINGS OF THE PHOENIX." My feathered wings catch fire, and I dive for her head, her tail whipped forward hitting flush to my face. sending me through several walls. I spread my wings and stop mid-air, this wasn't working. "WINTER'S WIND." The air around her begins freezing. "WINTER'S GRASP," Water around her forms into a hand and wraps around her slowly freezing. With one swing she destroys it and my concentration. "Is that the best you've got old stallion?" I silently peruse my mental library to find the one spell that could stop her. "AMBER'S WRATH." I channel the level ten earth spell underneath her. Tree roots entangle her long enough for the spell to grow the massive branches needed to finish the attack. An orange gel dripped from the branches burning her like acid. As the gel solidified it trapped her in suspended animation. The intense strain of the combined spells took it's toll as I staggered to the one who had saved me. His wounds were already healing, as he regained consciousness mine slipped, and I felt I was being carried. Chapter 8: Final Preparations.Chapter 8: Final Preparations. (P.O.V. Switch, Monarch.) "Do I have to wear this?" I look in the mirror at the suit I was wearing. "It looks good on you," Luna sat legs crossed across the room. "I would feel better in my metal suit." "Oh you can't be seen at the Gala clad in armor, the guests may get the wrong idea." She stood and walked over to me "That you still don't trust them enough to let your guard have the night off." "Well more or less, besides it's hard to feel your soft fur if you have metal over it." Her hand rubbed my face and ran her fingers through my mane. "He did a good job, didn't he?" "The best." Luna pressed her lips to mine and we shared a passionate kiss. "Now while it is still daylight go and fetch our special guests from Ponyville" "Okay." I snap my fingers and move through the air and arrive at the warehouse Cress told me about, and opened the door. (P.O.V. Switch, Cress.) The door opened as Scoot punched the dummy across the room. "Hey, Monarch, glad you could join us, Scoot go get the dummy." "You've got yourself quite the place here." "I try," Soren shouted hanging from the rafters again. "But half of this wouldn't have been possible without his help," "Hey I just did what I do best." Tobias was practicing on the terrain system. His natural agility made it easy for him. "Woah!" He ducked just in time to avoid a jet of flame from the wall. "Terminate operation." The walls and floors receded and lowered him to ground level. "Nice touch with the flame thrower, Soren." "I try," "Where are Sabrina and Dancer?" Monarch asked. "Dancer's out getting groceries, should be back any time now, Toby where's your sister?" "Oh probably down at Carousel, or the library, hell she could be at Sweet Apple Acres." He walked to the chill cabinet and grabbed a water. "Probably at Carousel with the other girls, with all this Gala stuff going on, nice suit." "Oh don't tell me you're going." Soren stifled laughter. "Shut it, I'm only going cuz Luna is." "The mighty Sword Master is afraid of his wife, that's rich." "Shut up ya junkyard reject!" "You wound me, sir." "It's all in good fun," I say patting Monarch's back. "Keep your chin up, single guys like them don't know the pleasure of a mare." "I heard that, and I do have a marefriend," "That's good to know, what's her name?" "It's Clara," Soren turned his attention back to his work. "Wow, quite a catch, who knew?" "Woah idea, why don't we have our own party, Ponyville party central,and everypony's invited," Tobias blurted out. "I mean come on, perfect house warming, what better way to use the kickin' sound system, and I'm quite the bartender," "Hm, that's not a bad idea, tell you what Soren spread the word, Tobias go to Sugarcube Corner and order five dozen cupcakes, and a couple bottles of Tabasco, Scoot get your friends you've told me about, and grab Felicia while you're at it okay. Let's get this show in the road." Everyone went their seperate ways leaving me alone with Monarch. "I never got to thank you for this," He opened the chill cabinet and threw me a bottle of whiskey. "You could've let me die, I would've been happy, my honor reestablished." "You may have been happy with that, but Luna wouldn't, I wouldn't," I took a swig from the bottle. "You're the only one who understands any of this shit." "I'll drink to that, but tell me this how is it you knew about the humans, Pinkie was sworn into secrecy, and the only others who knew other than myself were Celestia and the Gods." "It was all Pinkie's idea, Celestia allowed me into the archives when I told her I needed to research Equestrian history so I could better understand what I was saving them from exactly, the oldest book I could find dated back millenia. Creation of Equestria as I read the book I found several similiarities between our two cultures, Poseidon created Equestria for his creations above, while Hephaestus hid his one last creation underground. Pandora, the first queen, she was thought destroyed by the Gods and hephaestus served his punishment in Hades, Zeus being a man of forgiveness he let Hephaestus return to Olympus," "If Poseidon created the ponies, Hephaestus created the changelings, it stands to reason that Zeus may have his own children, so you looked for more information and find it you did in Pinkie Pie." "She was difficult to crack but once I did the pieces started to fit together, but there are still many pieces that still need to be placed before we can see the big picture." "That's true, it's hard to figure out the puzzle without looking at the box." He reached into his pocket, pulled out a cigar, and lit it. "I can tell you one thing though I'm glad that you're here, I'd never think I could find a friend," "Really no friends at all?" "No, I seriously regret the choices I've made in the past," "What would those be?" I ask for an explanation. Chapter 9: Sore Subjects Need MassagingChapter 9: Sore Subjects Need Massaging (P.O.V. Switch, Monarch.) Two-thousand years ago. I was about two years old when I was abandoned in the wilds, the creatures were certainly curious, the only ones who seemed to care about me were the wolves. About an hour later a shadowy figure loomed over me and leaned down to cradle me, his eyes were full of compassion, just looking at him made me feel calm. He took me to his home and raised me like a son, taught me the way of the blade, loved me. I never knew what would befall me after the next five-hundred years. Fifteen-hundred years ago. Five hundred years old and the best duelist in the southern wilds, I had something nopony else had, lifetimes of experience. I was so cock sure of my abilities that I left my father for the western wilds, and quickly discovered that these so called Masters were nothing more than squires. over the next two and a half centuries I conquered the western, and northern wilds. As I journeyed toward the eastern wilds I came across a small settlement of pegasi, called Pegasopolis, at the time I knew not of any other species, other than mine and My father's. I kept close watch on these creatures, they had wings like mine but no horn, they could move clouds, control the weather. I was greeted by a tall light green stallion. "My name is Hurricane, you look tired, come with me let's get you something to eat and a place for you to kick your hooves up." He was kind most would draw their swords and charge me, but this one seemed different. "What's your name stranger?" It occured to me Father never gave me a name, I watch the flowers and find a name. "Monarch." "Monarch, fine name for a fine warrior." "What makes you think I'm a warrior?" "There was news of a black alicorn defeating entire armies, but I doubted that, a warrior always carries a weapon." An alicorn was that what I was called. "Thank you for the hospitality, but I do not want to impose." "Don't be so formal we're all friends here," "Friends," I sipped the warm liquid from the cup he handed me. The snow was starting to melt under the sun's heat. "So, may I see your sword?" "Of course." I unsheath my blade and toss it to him. "Hmn, nice balanced blade, two handed hilt, gold filagre running up the blade and down the hilt, this is mythril isn't it," "Orichalcum," "A very rare item indeed, wait a moment I've seen this design before," He reached for his blade and held it next to mine. "These were forged by the same smith, if I'm not mistaken." "You are not mistaken Hurricane, they were forged by the one and only, Blacksmithe." An elderly one the same as my father said as he staggered over leaning on his cane. "He only made three, the two before you and the one given to the captain of the royal guard." "I see you're up and about Silverwind. How are you feeling?" "Pretty good I guess, these old bones don't do much anymore, but I can't complain. We got new land it's a fresh start for us, just in time too, didn't know how much longer I could stand the cold." "I was frozen for five hours how do you think I feel, what a shot to my ego, getting saved by a Private." "Well cheer up this is a new day, and I think we need a celebration." "I have the perfect idea nothing raises morale like competition. Tonight we shall duel for the good of the troops, and I haven't had a chance to use this in a long time, both it and my skills are kinda rusty, please respect an old stallion's wish and accept my challenge." "So did you?" Scootaloo and two mysterious fillies asked piercing the flashback. "Of course I did, and it goes without saying it was the best fight of my life. Let's fast forward a bit to the fight." The goal was not to kill but to land five hits on the opponent, each of us were outfitted in iron armor to keep the fight fairly. "Why iron?" The yellow earth pony asked. "Because iron cancels magic unicorn, pegasus, or otherwise." "Pegasi have magic?" "Yes, you can stand on clouds and control the weather, while others can't" "That explains alot." "Now can we get back to the flashback please?" they all nodded. Both of us clad in armor were given iron swords as well and stood as equals as the sun set. I knew my warrior's instinct would carry me to victory but I had no idea how hard this battle would be. We were soon surrounded by soldiers waiting for the match to start. I was albeit nervous, I never had spectators before. The first move and point was his, as the second, third, and fourth. I was on the ropes one more point and I would lose. I swung catching him off guard hitting him twice. I lunged slashing, he blocked two slashes but the other two hit dead on. Each left with one point to win we swung hitting each other at the same time. The troops were cheering. "That was amazing!" He said. "Yeah it was close." We shook each other's hands and became good friends. Present "Aw man a tie that's so stupid." Scootaloo seemed dissapointed. "I know he shoulda won." The yellow earth pony replied. "I'm just happy nopony got hurt." The white unicorn said. "May I ask your names." "Applebloom." "Sweetie Belle." "Scootaloo." "The Cutie Mark Crusaders!" They screamed in unison busting an eardrum. "Well I best be going don't want to keep her waiting." "Be sure to come by later we'll be here." Cress yelled. "I'll try." I walked out and flew back to Canterlot. About half an hour later I was back at the castle waiting for Luna to come out in her dress but instead she was wearing her black leather jumpsuit. "I know how much you hate formal, and I heard there was a party down in Ponyville for those who weren't invited, so I asked sister if we could go there instead and she said yes." "Thank you so much," I was relieved that I didn't have to spend one more second in this suit. I ran to our room and slipped into some street clothes and walked back. "I love you so much right now." "I know." She smiled and Nebula flew off with us back to Ponyville. Chapter 10: An Old Pony's TaleChapter 10: An Old Pony's Tale. (P.O.V. Switch, Starswirl.) I awake to the crackle of fire and the Behemoth roasting a buck he had obviously killed while I was sleeping. His helmet was sitting next to him as he stared at the moon. I shift my gaze toward the moon and find that Luna had been released yet I felt no disturbance in the balance of time. I was glad I hid the true Elements inside each of my friends their descendants must have found each other at the right time, I also felt the presence of the seventh, Amazingly he did not pass his element on in death or child conception, he kept it. I could never truly understand that one, it was the only element that you couldn't give away you had to find it on your own. "Good morning Sorcerer," "May I ask your name," I sit up and run my hand through the grass. "Captain Scarab Chief of the Hive Guard." "The Prince," "No that right was and still is Brother's." "The prodigal son judging by the current events has he been killed." "No, he's been thrown away." "Your sister didn't like the idea of being the second fiddleback." "You are the only one other than Brother that saw me as a living being, and not a mindless drone." "Where is your Brother I need to speak with him." "Ponyville, he's been going between there and Canterlot the past few days. He's made himself quite the little hive there, he's got a kid, some friends and a queen." "You mean wife?" "Not yet, and he has a warrior keeping watch over his assets." "Does this warrior have a name?" "Monarch." "So he's been brought back, Cressendo must be progressing rapidly." "Indeed, I hate to spy on him," He sighed. "Then don't," I reach for some of the venison and take a bite. "I thought Ponies were vegetarians." "Now where'd you hear that?" I take another bite. "All of the prisoners would refuse to eat meat, but jumped at the chance to eat plants." "Then call me an exception to the rule. Why don't you warn your brother, or better yet help him?" "That I'm afraid is not an option, not with Sister breathing down my neck." "But, you saved me of your own free will." "That may be, but I cannot keep her out forever, there are only a select few that can keep her at bay," "How did she become like that," "Well it's all a blur, I'll remember as best I can," (P.O.V. Switch, Scarab.) "Our society is a monarchy one ruler unquestioned, our family have been the royals for one-thousand years. It was about thirty years ago when Brother was born, five years after I was, then another five passed and then Sister. As brother was eldest he was the heir, I of course didn't mind, the noble's life wasn't the one for me." "How so?" "I was more inclined toward father's ways, but not killing innocents," "I see, continue." "While brother was away I was left with Sister, for what she lacked in strength she made up for with intellect. One day I took her to the archives and in a matter of hours she had memorized half of the tomes on the shelves. Over the years she got the idea that she was better than us, her quick wit, high IQ, and massive ego did nothing to convince her otherwise. One day she found a tome that had a different description of how our heirarchy originally worked, the book dated back to the last days of the first rule. Pandora's personal Diary was filled with legends about the many unsung uses of the Flame, most dark and twisted, like the ability to take the life away, rather than create it, or the ability to add or subtract mass from living beings and add it to your own. You saw how she grew larger and stronger with each innocent she consumed." "How dare you accuse my daughter, of writing such things." A tall creature staggered toward me using a hammer as a cane. "Calm down, Hephaestus, it doesn't matter how she found out, all that matters is how to stop her." The Sorcerer tried to calm the creature. "Hephaestus the smith god, the creator of our society?" "Yes he is, why are you here?" "We have a problem look," He reached into a pocket and pulled out two flames, one black, the other green. "The gifted, has gained Zeus' powers too soon." "Can he use it?" The Sorcerer asked picking his teeth with a bone splinter. "Better than Zeus, but it takes alot out of him. I have to hand it to him you were right, he brought a dead one back to life, and made a new body at the same time." The Sorcerer's eyes widened, he took thirty minutes to think. (P.O.V. Switch, Starswirl.) He is progressing too rapidly but he was a truly brilliant youth, he held the power of the Gods, but he kept sane, any other candidate would become drunk with power. Given how fast the darkness is approaching I may have to reveal the truth.... Chapter 1: Dreams Are SacredChapter 1: Dreams Are Sacred.(P.O.V.Switch, Monarch.) "I'm so bored." Nebula shifted in his seat. "Took the words right outta my mouth, kid." "Why don't we do something, Father?" "Because, Son, your mother told us to wait here." "How did you meet?" He asked as Luna walked out in a ornate dress. "That's the same dress you wore on our wedding day." "You look beautiful, Mother." "You really think so?" She twirled around. "Sorry to be a buzzkill, but Cress has something important to tell us," I interrupt not breaking my eye contact with her. "When will he be arriving?" "Shortly after four o'clock, says he's got an important guest." "Looking forward to it," Celes stepped behind Luna. "Now go on you three, I can handle the kingdom for a day." "Thank you Big Sister." She hugged Celes and ran off to our room to change. "Well, how did you and Mother meet?" "Long story," "Oh it's not that long," Celes sat down next to me as I tried not to stare at her exquisite figure. "He was in the lunar guard, personal bodyguard for your mother." "And we started dating, fell in love, and tried to get married, but Enigma wouldn't have that, and tried to kill me, I'm just glad he's not here now." "He was just trying to protect me." Celes said. "I'll believe that, when pigs fly." I look out the window and see a flying pig. "Very funny Celes." I turn my head to Nebula and his nose was bleeding. "He's my boy alright, lucky kid almost can't tell," "Almost," Celes giggled. "Almost can't tell he's blushing either." "Quit pickin' on the kid, that happened to me the first time I saw you too."
Prologue: Waking NightmaresPrologue: Waking Nightmares. (P.O.V. Switch, Third Person.) "This is all your fault." A female voice echoed in the darkness. "None of this would have happened, if you hadn't tricked me." "Why would I trick you, Selene," A deep male voice replied. "I let you out of Tartarus, and you screwed me over." "Did I really fool the great moon titan, that's rich." "Shut up," A bright light shines in Selene's eyes. (P.O.V. Switch, Selene.) "The great Titan of the Moon, powerless, trapped inside a mortal's body." I felt utterly useless. "Oh quit your yammering." His voice boomed as the darkness was lit by orange flames. "Rage personified, does not need much to fly off his handle." "I just wanted to regain control over my moon from that mortal." "And you did, but at what cost, ETERNAL DAMNATION FOR THE WIN." He laughed. (P.O.V. Switch, Cress.) It had been a week since the rescue and Scoot and I had moved into the warehouse in downtown Ponyville. Monarch was sleeping at the castle with Luna, and Soren and Dancer had agreed to help me with renovation in exchange for room and board. "Damn, dusty." Dancer coughed. "Who would leave all this stuff," Soren said prying a crate open with a crowbar."I mean look at this, I could build tons of kick ass stuff." "For now, we'd settle for something that we can hit." I replied. "Yeah I wanna punch something." "Well that's gonna hafta wait, it's time for school." "Aw come on, Dad do I hafta go?" she whined. "Yes, you need to go, I'll take you, c'mon." "Fine," "You too Dancer," Soren said waving his wrench. "Aaaw, kay." Dancer's mood changed in half a second. "Don't blow up my house Soren!" I yell walking the fillies out the door. "No promises!" He replied starting his torch. "Same ol' same ol'." Dancer laughed. About ten minutes later I got them to the school, and saw Miss Cheerilee. "Good morning, Cress, who are these two?" "This is my daughter Scootaloo, and my niece Dancer. A word to the wise they're fighters so keep a good eye on them for me." "Don't worry I'll keep a good watch over them." "Thanks Cheerilee, I hafta run I'll be back later okay." "Okay see you later," I run back in the direction of Sugarcube Corner. "Bye Dad," "Bye Uncle Cress." "Bye girls!" (P.O.V. Switch, Pinkie.) I hear strange noises from outside, and decide to investigate. Using my Pinkie Keen senses, see what I did there? Anyway, I sneak around Ponyville, Mission Impossible style. Then itchy nose, "Bees, not the bees." A screaming stallion whizzed by, being chased by bees. "Heheheha, Looks like Honeybutter forgot to bring flowers." I still heard the weird noises, but they were louder. I skip in the direction they were coming from. Twitchy Tail, I stopped and looked up, clear skies. "Hm, my Pinkie sense has never been wrong before." 'WHUMP' There's something heavy on my back. "Hi Pinkie." She whispered in my ear. Ear flop, eye flutter, knee twitch, and bam opening door smacks him in the face, she fell to the ground clutching her nose. "In your face!" "Ow," "That's what you get, for sneakin' on the pinkin'." Cress laughed helping her up. "Morning, how's the renovation coming?" I asked relatively unphased by what just happened. "Pretty good, it's kinda hard to keep the girls busy," "Where are they?" "I just dropped them off at the school, you okay?" He turned his head to the mystery Mare. "It was a good hit." She chuckled. "It's not like you, to be floored by a door, Firefly. What are you even doing here?" Cress replied. (P.O.V. Switch, Firefly.) "My sources, you know the Mercado, somepony wants you dead, and they asked me to do it, but I refused." I reach into my pocket and pull out the poster. "Somepony's offering two million bits for your head, three if you're still alive. I came to warn you, whoever this is wants you out of the picture for good." I scan his reaction for any hint of falter, but none. "If she really has the entire Mercado out to get me, then we'll need a little help." Cress had that look in his eyes that I hated to see, he had an idea. (P.O.V. Switch, The Dreamer.) I open my eyes and sit up in bed."Man, what a weird dream, just who are all these characters." I look over to my alarm clock 8:00 AM. "Good I won't be late this time. "Why am I dreaming about horse people, kick ass horse people, I pull on my jeans, socks, shoes, and a semi dirty shirt from the floor. I shift my gaze to my computer and it was flashing that annoying, you got mail. I walk over and click the file, it reads, Dear Tobias, You have been having strange dreams of late, I want to be the first to tell you that you are not the only one, I have sent you this invitation for one reason, you are needed here, I beg of you, help us. Anonymous, "What do you mean?" I type and send, opening a chat window. "The truth of the matter is, your skills are desperately needed here." Anonymous replies. "There is no other qualified enough for the task we ask of you." "We, what would you have me do?" "Nothing too easy," "I'm in where, and when?" "Here and now." As I start to type the screen distorts and starts doing that matrix mirror thing, I knew not to touch it, cause if this was the matrix I don't wanna unplug, I like my mundane life. I slowly back away reaching for my toolbelt. "If I don't touch it I should be fine, just grab my tools and go to work, nothing complicated 'bout that." I click my belt around my waist and back into something that shouldn't be there, a tall man with long silver and gold hair. His piercing gaze sent chills down my spine. I back away back to the computer, and sit back down, as several girl's faces appear on the screen. "Hello there," The one with pink and purple hair said. "I was afraid you wouldn't answer." "I wasn't but your friend here made sure I did." "Well are you ready?" One with peach colored hair asked. "Considering I have nothing better to do, your wish is my command." The pink and purple haired one nodded to one with pink bedhead, and the screen started that matrix shit again. The image of a hand grew closer until it came out and grabbed me. "What the fuck!?" The hand started pulling me head first into my computer. I hook my legs onto the desk. "He's stuck," One shouted. I felt the man's hands push my feet through and I fly through a bright light and into a bookcase. Hundreds of books thicker than War and Peace rained down on me. "Is he okay," The peach haired one asked, still a little dizzy I look at her. She looked different, they all did. "He'll be fine." The man said stepping out of the screen across the room. "Are you sure, he took a lot of books to the head." The pink haired one cocked her head. As my vision cleared my grasp on the situation loosened even more. "RRRRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH." I screamed. "HOLY FUCK YOU'RE HORSES!!!!!!!!!!!!" (P.O.V. Switch, Cress) As Twilight was about to open her big mouth I covered it. "Let him get it out of his system," "Why is he so suprised he saw our faces." Rarity asked covering her ears. "On his side you looked human, and now that he's on our side he sees what we really are." "But wouldn't that make him look like us on our side?" Twilight uncovered her mouth to ask. "Naturally, I just used the Flame of Hephaestus to make him look human, so he doesn't freak out." "A little late fer that Sugarcube." "Ya think?" As we carry on a complete conversation, Tobias is screaming and then Pinkie starts, and then all Hades broke loose. "WHAT IS GOING ON, WHO ARE YOU WHY AM I HERE?" "Hey, shut up and listen, long story short, we need your help." "Wait a second I know you," He points at me. "You're Cressendo." "The messages got through, that's good, the less explainig we have to do the better." Dash pumped her fist. "This guy better be worth the trouble we went through to get him. "And then some."I walked over to him and helped him onto his feet. "Now as you may know I have a problem, that requires outside help. The Mercado is out for my head." "The entire Mercado." Firefly interrupted. "Not to mention your brother." "What about Scarab?" "Chrys has him following you around, she's got eyes and ears all over.
Chapter 2: Suspicions.Chapter 2: Suspicions, (POV Switch, Tobias) "What do you want from me, I can't compete with you." I asked a little confused. "I mean you have the gods on your side." "I may have the gods, but you have something I could never dream of possessing, the Titans." "What are you talking about, the Titans were locked away ages ago." The purple one interrupted. "Twilight, where were they sealed?" Cress asked in a sarcastic tone. "Um, well, I don't know." She was flabbergasted. "This kid has all of the Titans living inside." "But that makes no sense that would make him," "Five-thousand years old." A black one with wings and a horn was leaning in the doorway. "The Titans were never sealed, they were transfered," "You mean," Twilight's jaw dropped. "Yes, by way of soul transfer, into this sorry excuse for a demigod." He seemed angry. "Hold on a minute, Demigod what the hell are you all talking about I'm just a normal guy, no special powers, no family except my sister, my sister! You have to take me back, I can't leave her alone." "If I take you back you have to promise to come back with her." "Whatever man just take me back." "Twilight, Pinkie, ready the portal, there's one more we need to find." The pink one was fitted with wires while Twilight's horn began to glow, turning the orange screen blue. In seconds I was picked up and thrown through my computer and into a wall. The noise woke my sister and she ran to my room. "Toby, are you okay." Sabrina stood in my doorway in her pajamas. "Yeah I'm fine, pack your things we're going on a little trip." "Okay Toby, how long?" "A week at least," Sabrina smiled and ran to her room." "How old is she?" Cress asked as he stepped out of the computer. "Six," I reply grabbing my suitcase and filled it with essential supplies. "May I ask what happened to your parents?" "Well, it's kind of a sore subject, but our father was killed six years ago when she was born, and our kother died during childbirth." "So you were left with all of that responsibility, I know it doesn't mean much but I'm sorry for your loss." "It means more than you think. Sabrina are you ready?" "Just about," "Close enough c'mere!" "Yeah Toby," She walked in with a suprised look on her face. "How'd you get in here?" Cress pointed to my orange computer screen, HA Portal reference. "Really?" I nod. "Is that were we're going?" "Yep." I say with a smile. "Grab your bags." I lean over the keyboard and type. Everything's fine get ready for our return. Sabrina ran in holding her bags, and waited for the proof. I slowly put my hand through the portal and get sucked in. As I step out the other end I'm followed by Cress who's cradling a pony. "You look different," She said to Cress. "I look different. Am I a pony?" "Not quite." I reply. "Not the ones we're used to." I watched as her eyes widened and her smile covered half of her face. She hopped out of his arms and bolted around the room. (P.O.V. Switch, Sabrina) "You're Twilight Sparkle." I said to the purple one. "Yes I am," "And you're, I ran to the blue pegasus. "Rainbow Dash." "My reputation precedes me." "And Pinkie Pie," I ran to Pinkie and she gave me a big hug. "And Fluttershy, Rarity, and Applejack!" "How do you know our names?" Twilight asked. "Where we come from we can watch a show that tells us all about your adventures," "Is that right?" "It is true," The black Alicorn, said. "It was Celes' idea, and Pinkie was in on it," Pinkie was grinning ear to ear. "That explains what humans call breaking the fourth wall." "Oh I get it," Twilight said. "That's all fine and dandy, but most of us don't got our noses in books twenty-four sev'n." "Breaking the fourth wall is a character in a book or play that knows they're in a book or play. Like if there was a play about a pony, that character would know they were in a play." "But they are in the play, it's about them." Rarity fluffed her hair. "Look forward, how many walls do you see," "Three," Rarity paused for a moment. "Oh I see, if you see three walls you are the fourth, and when somepony talks to you they are speaking to the fourth wall, and if you are on the other side it's breaking it, they may not see you but they know you're there." "Exactly." The black one said. "I am Monarch, envoy of the Lunar Kingdom, it's a pleasure," "Good afternoon Monarch, where's Luna?" "Oh out with Nebula, I think they're waiting at Carousel for you Madamoiselle Rarity, something about getting Nebula some fitting clothes for a prince." "Oh my stars royal business, I don't want to keep them waiting, au revoir." Rarity jolted up and ran for the door. "Hey, go easy on my son," (P.O.V. Switch, Nebula) A light blue unicorn stood panting at the door of the boutique. "My apologies Princess, Prince, I was otherwise engaged." As I watched her catch her breath I couldn't help but to stare at her incredible beauty. "Quite alright, Rarity we are in no hurry." Rarity her name matched her beautyiful body. "You know my name?" "Of course, you saved my life." "You are welcome, come in come in, I have many suits and if those do not suit your needs I can have one personally tailored for you in one hour." "One hour, that's a bit excessive don't you think?" I ask. "No, no, no, it's no trouble at all I do that for all my clientelle." "Yeah all ten of 'em." I heard a small unicorn say from the spiral staircase. "Sweetie Belle," Rarity growled. "You're supposed to be sick!" "Eep" The small one ran up the stairs. "Excuse my sister she can be difficult at times, but thank Celestia she's just here for a few hours." "Nebula be a dear and look at the selection, whilst I chat with Rarity." (P.O.V. Switch, Monarch) "You have a son!?" Twilight's eyes were wide while Applejack was smiling wryly. "Luna was pregnant when she was banished to the moon." "That explains why he looked like you, and why the shadow ponies exist." "That's right, Luna wanted somepony for him to play with, so she used the darkside as a medium, creating a kingdom and filling it with ponies." Everypony was silent leaning on the edge of their seats waiting for more. "You two what are your names, and how are you Alicorns?" "I am?" The blue one reached for his horn, and flapped his wings. "I am." "My name is Sabrina, the violet one said as she bowed. "This is my big brother, Toby." "Hm, these are your important guests," "Yes," Cress replied. "I better get going it's almost three," "Rarity should be finishing up in about half an hour." Twilight said. "Good, then she can start on mine." I walk outside toward Carousel. (P.O.V. Switch, Cress.) "Tobias, Sabrina stay here with Twilight, I'll be back in twenty minutes." "Goin' ta the school house?" "Yes I am," "It's 'bout time fer it to be over, better get Applebloom." "Let's go." Applejack wrapped her arm in mine and we walked toward the school. "Applebloom's your sister right?" "Yup, she's a mite depressed though." "Really, why?" "Everypony in her class has their cutie marks already." "What exactly is a cutie mark?" "Well, when somepony finds that special somethin' that makes them diff'rent they get one a these," She raised her leg showing three apples like herr brother's but red. "It lets everypony know what you can do that nopony else can." "Fascinating, we don't get those," "Why in tarnation not?" "Our bodies constantly change I'm sure if we had one it would show up somewhere on our disguises and blow our cover." "Shame, nopony else will know yer special talents." "That's the point AJ." we arrived just as the bell was ringing, and the children shuffled outside. "Dad," "Uncle Cress," Applejack let go just in time not to be glomped by the two six-year old fillies. "I was only gone for five hours," "They seem quite attatched to you, Cress." Cheerilee walked over and pulled them off me. "How much damage?" "Oh, they were angels," "That's good," "Your definition of angels must be a little different from mine, Cheer." A beige mare said as she walked out. "Those two were difficult to say the least, but you know me I love a challenge." "Allow me to introduce Tanya Mare, the mayor's daughter." "Pleasure to meet you, Tanya." I hold out my hand. "It was not a pleasure to meet your children." She said taking my hand and shaking it. "I'll make sure they'll behave, when we go to Canterlot," I loved watching Scoot's face light up, they many joys of being a father. "C'mon let's leave Tanya to recouperate, she'll need the rest." I wink to her and walk the girls back to the warehouse. I open the door and take one step inside before tripping over cables. "Watch your step," Soren shouted dangling from an I-beam. "Not done with flooring yet, gonna take a few days, just for the ceiling rails, and the elevator system." "How long have you been up there, Soren?" I shouted. "When'd you leave." "Six hours ago." "Then six hours, I got bored," "Why can't you play games or go out, you've been cooped up in here all week." Scoot shouted runnig up the stairs, to his Crystal system. "Because," "Because why?" "Just because," "Just because why?" "Because I can." "You can go outside, why not?" "Because," "Because why?" "Oh not this shit again!" He dangled upside-down tugging at his mane. "Fine just shut up!" "Why?" "RaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH." I couldn't help but brohoof my daughter and laugh.
Chapter 3: The Big Reveal.Chapter 3: The Big Reveal. (P.O.V. Switch, Soren.) "You guys are so aggravating." I scream. "Runs in the family." Cress hi-fived his kid. "See that button that says Crane controls" "Yeah," Dancer pushed Scootaloo out of my chair. "Press it follow the instructions." "Okay." She pressed the button and the crane came on. The beam I was on lowered and moved toward the command deck. The loud machine puffed and whirred as it stopped at the deck. I jumped off and landed next to my controls. "Why couldn't you just fly?" Scootaloo asked. "I haven't perfected hover flight yet, and it's gonna be hard when all I have are blueprints." "C'mon, there's some ponies I'd like you to meet before we go to Canterlot." Cress signalled for us to leave. "We, do I hafta?" I groan. "Yes It's imperitive for you be with us," "Fine, it's not like I have anything better to do." "That's better," Scootaloo did parkour over the railing and walls landing next to Cress in seconds. "C'mon slowpokes, time's a waistin'." Dancer smiled and did the same thing but with grace. "Why the buck not?" With a running start I clear the railing and flipped through the air swinging from dangling cables, and landing with the grace of an elephant. "Let's get this over with." Cress led us to the library. "I've already met the librarian, she's pretty cute, and smart." "You like her, don't you Soren?" "No," He raised an eyebrow. "Okay maybe, but I don't think I'm her type." "Don't know if you don't ask," Cress reassured as he opened the door. What I saw was I'll admit strange, two Alicorns a blue stallion and a purple filly. "I would like to introduce Tobias and Sabrina." "Those names are human, where did you find humans?" "How do you know about humans?" "I've lived on the moon not under a rock, parallel dimension technology still flusters me, how'd you get it to work?" "It was me-ee." The pink one was bouncing around higher than a superball. "Damn you bounce higher than a superball." The blue one took the words right out of my mouth. "Let me through, Scootaloo was squeezing between my legs, and rolled in front of the one I assumed was Sabrina. "Hi there I'm,.." "Scootaloo," "How did you know?" "Magic," She pointed to her horn. "That makes sense." "She's a natural," I whisper to Tobias. "Yeah, I'm still floored that this place is real, but the one on TV is alot different than this one." "You're probably looking into a different dimension, or your dimension has a filter, I would like to believe the latter." "We should get going," Cress said. "Right with ya." I walk over to him. "Coming," The three fillies replied in unison and ran over to us." "Let's get this over with," Tobias was like me, could he be the human version of myself? He had the aditude, and he did sound like me. "Can you fly with those," "What?" "Can you fly with those wings alone, or do you have another source of propulsion?" "I have hi speed propulsion but," "Hover propulsion keeps flooring you." "Yeah, how did you?" "Tell you what, after this whole Canterlot thing, I'll take a look at it, maybe two gearheads can get a working prototype, I mean think of all the good hover tech can do for mankind, I mean ponykind." (P.O.V. Switch, Tobias.) Tobias' mental log, day one, these creatures aren't much different from humans, some are kind, while others not so much. Then there's the whole thing with Cress, I am seriously not buying the whole Titans thing, but I'll just play along maybe I can get some kind of answer from these Princesses. As I stare out the train window my mind escapes me, for the first time I felt happy, it had been too long to remember the last time I felt like this. "You know I've tried the whole inner monologue thing, doesn't work as well as you'd think." Soren broke the silence. "Yeah, I just needed to think," "So how are you adjusting to this whole alternate dimension?" "I guess, alright Sabrina's doing better than I am." I watch as Sabrina talks and laughs with the other two little ones. "That's because she has imagination, a loosened grip on reality, you however had to grow up, and when you grow up it's hard to stay a child at heart, while your head grows for responsibility." Soren's words softened the blow of culture shock, was I really that close minded. The train slowed to a halt and the doors slid open, reminded me of a subway train. Everyone else rose to their hooves and shuffled out the doors out into the station. I decided to follow into Canterlot Central Station, and find the others. I was bumped and thrown in all directions by angry ponies. One knocked me to the ground but stopped to help me up and apologized. "I'm sorry Dude didn't see ya there," The white unicorn with a neon blue mane held out her hand. "Name's Vinyl, I was kinda in a hurry, pickin' up this last part for my turntable maintenence, now I'm back to Ponyville, catchya on the flipside," "Bye," I shouted as she turned away and ran for the train sliding between the closing doors. "It's hard to find ones like that," A female voice sounded from behind, by instinct I turn to find a black mare with a crooked horn. "Who are you, what do you want?" "Oh just a passerby, someone who knows more than she should, human." "How do you know?" "I know quite a lot oh naive child, you will help me, in exchange for one wish, anything you desire and I shall give it, all you have to do is help me find my brother." "Anything?" Her offer did pique my interest. "Yes anything, you have three weeks to weigh your options, choose carefully, the right choice shall be rewarded, while the other will cost you dearly, remember that," "How will I reach you?" "You don't have to, your days are numbered make sure that number is not twenty-one." She backed away into the crowd and disappeared, as Cress walked up beside me. "Good I found you, come your audience awaits your performance." He patted my back and led me toward the castle.
Chapter 4: Process Of Elimination.Chapter 4: Process Of Elimination. (P.O.V. Switch, Chrysalis.) Five days ago. "He's late again," I was slowly losing my patience with Scarab. "He's always late." I look out the window next to my throne, why had all this transpired my life's dream, to rule over these mindless drones, yet I feel like an exoskeleton! My fist slammed into my armrest. "Guard, come here please." The double doors slowly creaked open as a guard poked his head through. "Yes my Queen," "I'm bored, entertain me," He slowly stepped in and shut the door behind him. I reach for my knife and throw it at him, in seconds it sinks between his eyes, that sickening crack and the squish of slicing skin, warmed my heart and a smile crept across my face, I rise from my throne and saunter to his lifeless corpse, and raise his head. The look of pain, terror, and what's this, yearning. His soulless eyes still had a hint of happiness, I rip the blade through his face as his blood drenched mine. "Refreshing, but not quenching." A loud knocking fell upon my door, as I dragged my kill back into my territory and proudly displayed it sitting next to the throne. "Come in," I sigh as I sit down. The doors slowly open to Scarab, dressed in his battlestead. "How nice of you to grace me with your presence brother." "My apologies but it was difficult to track the quarry, he has new companions, ones that make it hard to get close," "New companions, why should they mean anything to me," "One, should mean something, Monarch." Upon hearing that name my eyes narrow and a wry smile crosses my face. "The legendary Sword Master, that may play into my advantage, who else?" "Well he has a metal pegasus, it sounds strange but I've seen him with my own two eyes." "Does he have any other companions that I need worry about?" "No, but," He paused. "But What Scarab?" "He's faster, stronger, and smarter," "Damn, the prophecy is coming to fruition." "What prophecy?" "That there will be one ruler that can call upon not only the Flame but the other traits of the gods as well, but let's make sure he does not call upon the Life Bringer," I shift in my seat. "Bring me Mosquitoz, and Nightshade." "But Nightshade isn't one of us." "You dare question the Queen," "Okay, I'm sorry, it's just Nightshade and I aren't on speaking terms," "Your relationship with that pony is not my business, bring her here, now!" "Yes your majesty right away." Brother bowed his head and slowly backed away through the doors. "Dammit, it was supposed to be me, I'm supposed to be the Ruler, the signs all point to me." I stand and walk for my personal dungeon entrance. I raise the trap door and step down. The musty air did nothing for my mood, as I reached the bottom of the stairwell the prisoners scattered like roaches, I walk by each cell as the prisoners looked on in fear. I stopped at one and stared at the bright green cocoon inside. The stallion inside shifted to the small hole big enough for his head to fit through. "You're the spitting image of Xeroxa." The elderly stallion said. "I don't have time for pleasantries, answer my questions." "No foreplay, pity, ask and I shall do my best to answer your many questions." "Where did my brother get that amulet?" "Amulet, hmn, I don't recall seeing him with one." "Don't play dumb I know you, Starswirl The Bearded." "Well if you're going to be that way, I gave it to him he was ten times the ruler you'll ever be, at three years of age. He deserves the power it wields," "What power?" He was trying my patience. "A power that rivals the god's," "Interesting, thank you for your insight, now if you'll excuse me places to go ponies to kill, and who knows maybe I'll pay a visit to your grandson." "Leave Armour out of this, he's done nothing to you!" He shouted as I walked toward the stairs. (POV Switch, Starswirl.) "She's going to do something brash, and I can't do anything to stop her." I struggled to widen the head hole, but to no avail. I close my eyes and breath deep, I open them to a black room. "It has been quite some time, since you called upon the Council, bearded one." Zeus sat in the middle, his lightning bolt scar crossing his chest, his white hair and beard like my own. "Yes it has," Poseidon leaned his trident on the wall, and took his throne of ice. "What can we do for you," Hephaestus stood in the corner, exhaling flames and leaning on his hammer. "I fear that the world is in grave danger," "How so bearded one?" Zeus asked stroking his beard. "He means that someone is misusing our gifts," Hephaestus staggered to his anvil shaped throne and sat. "Like that Chrysalis character," "My gifts to the pegasi have been used properly," Zeus reassured me. "I created this place as a sanctuary, like you with the humans, brother." Poseidon spoke. "And you with Pandora," "You know as well as I do how much pride you have in your creations," Hephaestus was steaming. "Please calm down, the Council is a place of consult," Zeus boomed. "Thank you Zeus, Chrysalis is not the only creature I have worries about, The herald of Dionysus, has been scheming of late, I fear he may be planning something." "That Discord has no place here, if Pandora had never opened that box," Poseidon's rage was like the ocean. "It's not my fault she was curious." "That is beside the point what we can only do is hope that our heralds will be strong enough to combat him," Zeus thought out loud but still had his doubts, I could tell. "Combat him I have no doubt, but defeat him I do, I think it is time to bring in some help." "Ask and ye shall recieve bearded one." "The children, the time has come to break the first seal," "That is easier said than done my friend." Hephaestus conjured a black flame, this is unsettling, the Titans have already awoken, was it wise to seal them inside such a fragile prison?" "If what you say is true than we may have armageddon to look toward." Zeus was troubled. "So I say we cash in our chips while the cashin's good." Hermes stood at the door dressed in a track suit and rollerblades. "Plus it's about time we brought the kid back," "Hermes quick to the trigger as always, well you will be the one to fetch him." "Where does he reside in the realm of humans?" "You're going to have to find him on your own," "Good, wouldn't want it to be easy." Hermes turned and skated off into the darkness.
Chapter 5: The World ParallelChapter 5: The World Parallel. (P.O.V. Switch, Hermes.) I stare off into the expanse of sky around Olympus, clouds drifting upon the breeze. I step to an outcropping and dangle my feet over the edge, and begin playing my reeds. The beautiful music echoed throughout Olympus, as the hawks flew above. This music was one of the few joys of being a god I had. Too much work and no play makes Hermes bored. I stop playing and put the reeds back into my pouch, and stand to find someone I knew quite well, Ares. "Good morning, Hermes." The armor clad war god said shaking my hand. "As with you, Ares how goes the the war effort?" "It's difficult to say, humans are quite resilient," "Wouldn't want this to be too easy would we?" I pat his back and we shared a laugh. "Now I gotta get back to work," I smile and send him on his way, minus a little gold from his money pouch. "Still got it," I dive off the outcropping and feel the wind through my hair, the fifty-thousand foot drop always made my blood boil and my adrenaline rush. As I fly closer to the mountain I flip to skate down the side, these humans really know how to live. In seconds I skidded to a halt at the foot of Olympus, changing my appearance only slightly to blend in with the crowd. "This place sure has changed since I was here last, Greece isn't so ancient anymore." A city full of humans lay at the mountain foot. I walked through the city taking some money here some fruit there, while leaving none the wiser. I chomp on an apple watching for any signs of the kid, none. "He did like Manehaten, so the human equivalent Manhaten, that's totally original." I I walk to the docks and skim over the ocean. Hours later I made it to Manhatten, and swipe a local paper, and read the headline. Local teenager brings home the championship title for America, Techno Bassboost returned yesterday from Tokyo, Japan with the Chapionship for the international martial arts tournament and is proud of his accomplishment. "I never dreamed of getting past state, but then nationals, and internationals, I never knew I was that good." The truth is he was phenominal, if you ask this reporter he's the best fighter in the world, but that's just my opinion, Techno has promised to give thanks for the support to each and every one of his family and friends. I folded the paper and tossed it into a trashcan, and walked toward a small shop. I pushed open the door as a large man stood up from the desk in the corner. "Hello, how may I help you, today?" "Formal as always, Aaron." I remove my fedora and smile at him." "Hello Hermes, what brings you from Olympus?" "The kid, it's time." "So soon," "You have two weeks to say goodbye, if you wish I can shepherd your entire family over, for a price." "It's always business, Hermes we accept your offer, on one condition," "And that would be, what exactly." "Teach him," "What would you give me in return?" "I will give you something more valuable than ambrosia." "You have my attention," I smiled wryly and shook his hand. "It's a deal." I turn and walk toward the door, wondering what gift a mortal can bestow to a god. (P.O.V. Switch, Monarch.) Present "Did you have to be so rough?" "Why of course darling, you have to be quite thorough when dealing with clients such as yourselves." Rarity flipped through a book of fabric swatches. "Ah that's perfect, now run along it's almost time for you to be in Canterlot, I will send the suits to the castle as soon as they are finished, expect them this evening." As she pushes me out the door I feel her hand drift lower and pinch me. "Au Revoir, Rarity." I turn and bow as Luna walks through the door with Nebula. "We must be going, we wouldn't want the guests arriving before the hosts now would we." I place my hands on their shoulders and grant them the speed of Hermes for a short time. "Everything's so slow," "Since when can you use the speed of Hermes?" Luna was impressed I had learned such a high level spell. "And use it on others?" "A little side effect from being inside Cress' head for fifteen years." "What does that mean?" Nebula was confused. "I'll explain later, just focus on the castle," "Okay Father," He closed his eyes and disappeared, Luna and I held hands and did the same. In seconds we arrived in the throne room, Luna took her seat next to Celes, and I took mine next to hers. Nebula sat next to me. "That was awesome," "I know just wait till I show all the other shit I can do." A loud knocking fell upon the doors as they creaked open, The Elements with the exception of Rarity came through first, followed by Cress and Soren, and finally the demigods. Celes was shocked to see the demigods, and was a little angry. "Good afternoon Princesses," Twilight clearred her throat. "And Prince." "Pinkemina Diane Pie, Explain your reason." Celes seemed a bit peeved. "I'm sorry it's just I had a feeling," I could see Pinkie was hesitant. "You know very well that it is dangerous to have them here." "I know but," "While I do not condone the use of your 'special' talents in such a manner you must have a good reason." "Yes a very good reason." I crossed my legs and waited in an attempt to egg her on. "Well it's kinda complicated," Pinkie was desperately searching for the right words to explain their current situation. "You see uh well," For the first time she was speechless. "I think I may be able to shed some light on the situation," A male voice echoed through the room. I heard a rustling in the rafters and stood. "But you'll have to catch me first." The voice taunted as I turned my gaze upward. I concentrate on the voice and draw my sword. (P.O.V. Switch, Rainbow.) That voice it sounded so familiar but where have I heard it before? I keep my guard up scanning the rafters for signs of movement. Monarch, sword in hand flew up and started swinging. The shadow threw him down to the ground. He landed as I heard a loud snap, I bolted over to find his face, was cracked. "Are you okay?" "Yeah I'm fine, nothing a little lotion won't cure." He struggled to move his arm, but nothing. "That's it no more miss nice mare." I bolted straight up, landing on a support beam the shadow appeared. "You'll regret touching my friend." "Would you look at that little Rainbow thinks she can take me," "How do you know my name?" "Well I know quite a lot about each one of you, your hopes, your dreams, your nightmares." I lunge for him and swing my fist. "Can't touch me," He laughed. "Quit it, stand still so I can kick your ass!" This guy was pissing me off. "My, My you're a fiesty one aren't you, you're every bit your father." "Shut up I'm nothing like my father." His words cut deep too deep. "My father left me out to dry like his dirty laundry!" Tears rolled down my face as I lunged again, this time my fist connected, with his hand. He raised me up and threw me across the room through one of the stained glass windows. "Is that all you got?" The shadow stepped into the light revealing a human. "I've fought butterflies stronger than you." "You," I sit up my body impaled with shards of glass. "Take it back." "You need to hear the truth, young one." His hand grasped my chin and he pulled me up out of the rubble. "You are useless, if you truly wish to defeat me you must accept your role in all of this." "That's enough!" Cress shouted from the gaping hole. "Now you're gonna get it." I spit in his face before he throws me back through another window. (P.O.V. Switch, Cress.) "You have no place here," I fly out and land in front of the creature. "And who's gonna kick me out, you don't make me laugh." "You will leave you have hurt too many." I reach for my knife and lunged. "Too slow," He slipped past me with such ease, as I felt a blade plunge into my back piercing a lung. I fell to my knees as the air rushed out the hole and blood flowed out my mouth. "Look at that, all dressed up and nowhere to go." He laughed. "Not, dead yet." My eyes flamed over white and my wound healed instantly. I slowly stood to my hooves and slashed at his face drawing blood. "But you will be soon." I plunge my knife into his stomach and he falls over my shoulder. "You will not die today, you will live as punishment." I throw him to the ground and his smile disturbed me. "You have no idea who you're dealling with, mortal." "Cocky prick, tell Zeus what transpired here today," "How," "I am no mere mortal, you shall regret trying to kill the Gifted." "Oh Shit," He backs away slowly. "Don't kill me." "Why should I spare you?" "I'll tell you everything, just don't kill me." "Well," I ponder a moment as Hermes is electrocuted, wounds healing. "You have a deal." "You really are the Gifted." "And this is for Rainbow Dash." I grab his neck, slam him on the ground, and throw him through the castle wall. I quickly fly to Rainbow and her life was fading. I place my hand over her heart and focused sending the storm of Zeus through her body. It began to convulse under the intense voltage. Her eyes shot open and she gasped for air. "Thank Hephaestus." "Did I win?" She seemed normal but her mind was elsewhere. "Yes you did." I wrapped my arms around her and squeezed tight. "How did you do that?" Twilight's eyes were wide open. "The Storm Of Zeus." Luna said kneeling over Monarch's body. "Hey buddy," I kneel beside Monarch. "How're you feeling?" "Hollow," "Let's see if we can fix that," I cracked my knuckles and focused on both the Flame, and the Storm. His body was struck with lightning and was set ablaze. His fragile body melted, as it took a skeletal form, I raised my hand slightly and used tapestry as a medium for muscle tissue stitching his muscles back together strand by strand. I lower my hand as the large curtain starts to unravel and wrap around his body, his flesh and black fur materialized as his eyes opened. With the one ounce of strength I had left I pulled a suit of armor from the wall and placed him inside. My vision grew dark and my hearing lost.
Chapter 6: Mortality LostChapter 6: Mortality Lost. I heard the faint sound of beeping and open my eyes. I feel movment at my side and find Scoot hanging off the edge of the bed, and Felicia asleep at the bedside. I look around to find Firefly asleep in the corner. Scoot's eyes slowly opened and her face lit up when she saw I was okay. "Thank Celestia you're okay!" She wrapped her arms around me and was shedding tears of joy. The sudden change in volume made Firefly fall out of her chair. Felicia opened her eyes and she hugged me too. "We were so worried," The combined force of their being worried was cushing my ribs. "Can't breath," "Sorry," Felicia backed away with a smile. "Looks like you're awake, I must say you're quite resilient." Hermes was sitting on the window sill. "Who are you," Firefly had her sword drawn. "Settle down Firefly, he's a, friend." "Well, now that you're conscious I can leave." "Not before you tell us why you are here Messenger god." Monarch stood in the doorway. "But not here," "Fine," Hermes raised his hands and flicked his wrists and we were all back at the castle. "Will this location suffice?" "Yes it will," Celestia glared at him. "I must speak with you four and you alone." "Agreed." Luna seemed high and mighty as usual. "Felicia take Scoot, I have some business to attend to." "Okay, don't take too long." "I won't, promise." "Aaw but we just got here," "Come on, let's go see the Wonderbolt derby," "Really," Scoot's mood changed in seconds and they ran off. "Spill it," Monarch growled. "Cressendo your amulet, where did you get it?" "Some pony down in the dungeon slipped it in my bag when I was little." "Who was this pony?" "I don't remember his name, what's with all the questions?" "That pony was Starswirl The Bearded," "He's still alive?" Celestia was shocked. "How is that possible?" "The Flame, as long as the fire burns light will shine." Monarch seemed to know more than everyone in the room. "If he's still alive and kicking, it stands to reason that he's trying to send a message." "His grandson," "You mean Bassboost, he's been missing for years," "Not missing, with the humans, he's been on the other side. bettering his skills, but his convienient case of amnesia, keeps him wondering why." "What are you saying, that we can't handle it here?" "Not me, Starswirl he asked me personally to send the messages, You have ten days until he arrives then all Hades'll break loose." Hermes turned and disappeared. "Ten days," I walk to the window overlooking the gardens. "Then what?" "I don't know but I'm glad you'll be here to enjoy the ride." Monarch patted my back and smiled. "Now go fetch your gear, we have alot of work to do." He backed away and turned to Luna and Celestia. "If all Hades is gonna break loose we need to be prepared." "Can I bring a few others?" "Of course, the more we have the better chances." "That was awesome, Thanks Felicia." Scoot and Felicia walked in through the gates. Scoot was wearing a foam finger and Wonderbolt goggles. She ran over to me and gave me a big hug. "She likes you, I can tell, she'd make a great mom." The words that came from her mouth floored my thought process. "Are you sure?" "Yeah, we waited in your room for all four days, you saw her when you woke up. She was all over you." "Well I'll think about it okay?" "Okay." "Now about training, Monarch and I will be teaching some other ponies and I was wondering if you'd be my personal student." Her face lit up as the words escaped my mouth. "When do we start?" "Tomorrow, let's go home, you're welcome to join us Felicia." "Um, okay." Her face was flush red as she smiled, My arms around both of them we headed to the train station, and enjoyed the ride back to Ponyville . (P.O.V. Switch, Tobias) Tobias' log day four, I had no idea the technology here would be this advanced. This Soren has done quite well to keep my mind challenged, we may have finally had a breakthrough on his hover tech but we still have to build a prototype, that Vinyl pony showed up yesterday and helped us wire up a sound system, and three others came by this morning, Quickfix, Gearhead, and Carpenter, strange names but they really fit them. "Hey we could use some help here!" Soren yelled from the first floor. "Alright give me a minute." I hit save and vault over the railing using my wings as a parachute. "What's next?" "Not much Carpenter's almost finished with the floors, Quickfix and Gearhead are almost finished with the terrain controls, you can help me with the gravity control system." "Your tech is really that advanced?" "I don't mean to brag but yeah, moon tech is quite the accomplishment." He led me to a console in a room off to the side, which I guessed used to be an office. "Humans are centuries away from this stuff." "Really, I would have thought you would have something close." He pulled off the front panel exposing wires. "The Grav generators are on the fritz." "Can I see your blueprints?" "Sure," He shuffled through a file cabinet and pulled out the plans of the Grav unit circuitry. "It's baffling everything is correct." I quickly skim over the plans and found the problem. "AC or DC?" I asked not looking up. "What," He sounded confused. "These plans don't say whether it's powered by Alternating Current, or Direct Current, besides there are no variables if you are programming it to this console as a control unit, they wouldn't work anyhow, the gravity would stay set at one G." "That's genious, are you sure Humans don't know about this kind of tech?" "I don't know too many top secret government scientists," "Well what would you recommend?" "First we need to program the console, What type of code are you using?" "Hexadecimal," I sit at the Crystal system plugged to the console. Crystal System engaged. Project Grav Generator. Input code. I quickly type in the codes I feel best starting with, and save them to memory. Test Initiated. The generator whirred and my body felt slightly heavier. 1.2 Gs. I reach for the console dial and turn it. 1.5 Gs. "It works, I've been trying to fix that for days." "I don't mean to brag but, I know alot about programming, but it still baffles me how you were able to do this." "Well anything can be magnetic if you change it's electric charge, these generators emit flux waves, while not powerful enough to stick you to the floor they do strain your muscles," "Via the iron in your blood, that's genius." "You catch on quick, better turn the gravity back to normal." Soren turned the dial and the strain lifted. "Wouldn't want to catch anypony off guard." I finally had someone to talk to, someone who shared my intellect, someone who was exactly like me, wait parallel dimension means there are exact copies of our personalities in different bodies and situations. He wasn't like me, he was me!
Chapter 7: Even The Enemy Can Be HeroicChapter 7: Even The Enemy Can Be Heroic.(P.O.V. Switch, Starswirl.) I had waited for what felt like days no food, no water, yet I was never starved. This prison of skin somehow kept me alive, it's warmth did nothing to calm my nerves, how long was Hermes going to make me wait. I heard the trapdoor open, and unfamiliar hoofsteps. The stride suggested a male of the species, while the sound suggested a behemoth. As the figure stepped in front of my cell I could not help questioning why he had come for me. His hand was as big as my entire head and reached to open the door. The behemoth ripped the door off its hinges, and set it against the wall behind him. "Your Time has come, Sorceror." His deep voice echoed. "Has it," "Come with me," He stepped into the cold light of the cocoon, his figure was everything his silhouette was. The behemoth stood clad in navy blue armor with gold trim. His helmet was adorned with two large horns, similiar to a Heracles beetle's. "I would but I am otherwise engaged." "That is a simple solution." He raises his massive fist and puts it through the cocoon shattering it and freeing me. "Come with me," "May I ask to where?" I slowly rise to my knees and then to my hooves. "That is on a need to know basis." He leaned down to one knee,still dwarfing me in size and unlocked my iron shackles leaving the one on my horn clasped tight. "Is it wise to unshackle me." "Your horn is your weapon yes?" "Yes." "Then I am safe, for the time being." He turned and pulled on the chain connected to my horn, I walked behind him as his hulking mass walked through the tunnels, I had wondered why the tunnels were so large, so the Behemoths can take the prisoners to the chopping block. This one however felt different, his demeanor was calm, it was like he was his own. "I know you are confused Sorceror, but all will become clear in due time." Was that a hint of reassurance I heard in his voice, it was like he actually cared. These Changelings are such a complicated species. "Wait a moment." He released the chain and poked his head through the door. "Good no one's there, that'll make this much easier." He stepped back and grasped the chain and pulled. "You don't have to be so rough," The shackle was chipping my horn. "My apologies, Sorceror." He actually apologized, for the first time in one thousand years I heard those words. "Quickly we must hurry before the Queen returns." He pushed the door open and climbed through. "Grab on I don't want to snap your horn." He gave me some slack and I wrapped my fingers around the chain as he pulled me up. "That was the easy part, now for the fun part." "What are you trying to do," "You do not belong here," "I came here to learn, nothing more." My scientist instinct would not let me leave. "And you shall," The familiar voice sounded as the doors opened to Chrysalis and her personal guards. "Damn, I was sure I shut her out." The Behemoth's eyes showed anger through his helmet. "You did but you made one fatal mistake." "And that would be?" The Behemoth drew his blade. "Waltzing through the dungeon, tends to make guards suspicious of your actions," Chrysalis strolled down the aisle like a bride on her wedding day. "And you know me anything that happens in my Hive, I know about it." "This is not your Hive, you stole it, I know the truth." The Behemoth backed toward me sword drawn in defense. "The truth, bah, no truth just perspective, I didn't steal it, I merely retrieved what was mine." "Lies," The Behemoth dropped a small crystal and kicked it to me. "Free yourself." I kneel down and pick up the crystal and place it in the notch I had found years before. The restraint fell to ground as my horn sparked to life. The blinding light and raw power threw me into a wall. "Are you alright Sorceror?" "Yes, now I say we bust some heads." I focus my magic on one guard as his head explodes in a glorious display of guts and glitter. "My my the peaceful unicorn shows his true colors, I think it's time I show mine." Chrysalis grabbed one of her guards and bit down on his neck. Her body began to shift and burst out muscles growing larger, skin stretching, laughing like a maniac, her bones snapped and reformed in a bestial shape. Her shoulder blades sharpened and pushed through her skin. She was no longer a beautiful creature but an abomination to creation itself. The hulking mass that stood in front of us breathing heavy, It turned it's head revealing it's deep green soulless eyes. They stared deep into my soul may body was trembling out of control, fear an emotion I had not felt for years overtook me. It's jaw split as it reached for another guard and swallowed it whole, growing larger. It's teeth were razors, it breathed in and let out a bellow that shook my very being. I manage to turn my head to the one who had saved me, his hands tightly gripped to his blade. His eyes were filled with the same emotion but he stood firm, his courage was commendable but not even an entire army of dragons could keep her occupied for a few moments. "You don't scare me," "My, my the Captain isn't afraid, I can read you like a book. There is nothing you can do to stop me," I found the courage to stand my body still shaking. "What can you possibly do to us." "Many things, but why just one." She could sense my fear. "Fear, my favorite snack," Her hulking hand reached for me, but was greeted by a slash from the Behemoth's blade. "You will be the first to fall Captain," Her fingers thick as logs slowly wrapped around him, I could hear his snapping bones, as he struggled not to scream. He was lifted to her face. "You are powerful but you still need a reminder of whose side you're on." Her chest heaved as green fire escaped her lips burning the Behemoth alive, his screams echoed throughout the castle. "ENOUGH!" My body had stopped trembling as my voice took on the royal decibel. My mane sparked with electricity, fire danced at my hooves, the water in the air froze, the earth beneath crumbled, and the air whipped around my horn. "RELEASE HIM," "Would you look at that," She threw the Behemoth to the ground, and grinned a demonic smile. "I MAY NOT BE STRONG ENOUGH TO KILL YOU, BUT I HAVE TO TRY!" I cast the Wings of Icarus spell, as pegasus wings sprout from my back I bolt to the skies. "WINGS OF THE PHOENIX." My feathered wings catch fire, and I dive for her head, her tail whipped forward hitting flush to my face. sending me through several walls. I spread my wings and stop mid-air, this wasn't working. "WINTER'S WIND." The air around her begins freezing. "WINTER'S GRASP," Water around her forms into a hand and wraps around her slowly freezing. With one swing she destroys it and my concentration. "Is that the best you've got old stallion?" I silently peruse my mental library to find the one spell that could stop her. "AMBER'S WRATH." I channel the level ten earth spell underneath her. Tree roots entangle her long enough for the spell to grow the massive branches needed to finish the attack. An orange gel dripped from the branches burning her like acid. As the gel solidified it trapped her in suspended animation. The intense strain of the combined spells took it's toll as I staggered to the one who had saved me. His wounds were already healing, as he regained consciousness mine slipped, and I felt I was being carried.
Chapter 8: Final Preparations.Chapter 8: Final Preparations. (P.O.V. Switch, Monarch.) "Do I have to wear this?" I look in the mirror at the suit I was wearing. "It looks good on you," Luna sat legs crossed across the room. "I would feel better in my metal suit." "Oh you can't be seen at the Gala clad in armor, the guests may get the wrong idea." She stood and walked over to me "That you still don't trust them enough to let your guard have the night off." "Well more or less, besides it's hard to feel your soft fur if you have metal over it." Her hand rubbed my face and ran her fingers through my mane. "He did a good job, didn't he?" "The best." Luna pressed her lips to mine and we shared a passionate kiss. "Now while it is still daylight go and fetch our special guests from Ponyville" "Okay." I snap my fingers and move through the air and arrive at the warehouse Cress told me about, and opened the door. (P.O.V. Switch, Cress.) The door opened as Scoot punched the dummy across the room. "Hey, Monarch, glad you could join us, Scoot go get the dummy." "You've got yourself quite the place here." "I try," Soren shouted hanging from the rafters again. "But half of this wouldn't have been possible without his help," "Hey I just did what I do best." Tobias was practicing on the terrain system. His natural agility made it easy for him. "Woah!" He ducked just in time to avoid a jet of flame from the wall. "Terminate operation." The walls and floors receded and lowered him to ground level. "Nice touch with the flame thrower, Soren." "I try," "Where are Sabrina and Dancer?" Monarch asked. "Dancer's out getting groceries, should be back any time now, Toby where's your sister?" "Oh probably down at Carousel, or the library, hell she could be at Sweet Apple Acres." He walked to the chill cabinet and grabbed a water. "Probably at Carousel with the other girls, with all this Gala stuff going on, nice suit." "Oh don't tell me you're going." Soren stifled laughter. "Shut it, I'm only going cuz Luna is." "The mighty Sword Master is afraid of his wife, that's rich." "Shut up ya junkyard reject!" "You wound me, sir." "It's all in good fun," I say patting Monarch's back. "Keep your chin up, single guys like them don't know the pleasure of a mare." "I heard that, and I do have a marefriend," "That's good to know, what's her name?" "It's Clara," Soren turned his attention back to his work. "Wow, quite a catch, who knew?" "Woah idea, why don't we have our own party, Ponyville party central,and everypony's invited," Tobias blurted out. "I mean come on, perfect house warming, what better way to use the kickin' sound system, and I'm quite the bartender," "Hm, that's not a bad idea, tell you what Soren spread the word, Tobias go to Sugarcube Corner and order five dozen cupcakes, and a couple bottles of Tabasco, Scoot get your friends you've told me about, and grab Felicia while you're at it okay. Let's get this show in the road." Everyone went their seperate ways leaving me alone with Monarch. "I never got to thank you for this," He opened the chill cabinet and threw me a bottle of whiskey. "You could've let me die, I would've been happy, my honor reestablished." "You may have been happy with that, but Luna wouldn't, I wouldn't," I took a swig from the bottle. "You're the only one who understands any of this shit." "I'll drink to that, but tell me this how is it you knew about the humans, Pinkie was sworn into secrecy, and the only others who knew other than myself were Celestia and the Gods." "It was all Pinkie's idea, Celestia allowed me into the archives when I told her I needed to research Equestrian history so I could better understand what I was saving them from exactly, the oldest book I could find dated back millenia. Creation of Equestria as I read the book I found several similiarities between our two cultures, Poseidon created Equestria for his creations above, while Hephaestus hid his one last creation underground. Pandora, the first queen, she was thought destroyed by the Gods and hephaestus served his punishment in Hades, Zeus being a man of forgiveness he let Hephaestus return to Olympus," "If Poseidon created the ponies, Hephaestus created the changelings, it stands to reason that Zeus may have his own children, so you looked for more information and find it you did in Pinkie Pie." "She was difficult to crack but once I did the pieces started to fit together, but there are still many pieces that still need to be placed before we can see the big picture." "That's true, it's hard to figure out the puzzle without looking at the box." He reached into his pocket, pulled out a cigar, and lit it. "I can tell you one thing though I'm glad that you're here, I'd never think I could find a friend," "Really no friends at all?" "No, I seriously regret the choices I've made in the past," "What would those be?" I ask for an explanation.
Chapter 9: Sore Subjects Need MassagingChapter 9: Sore Subjects Need Massaging (P.O.V. Switch, Monarch.) Two-thousand years ago. I was about two years old when I was abandoned in the wilds, the creatures were certainly curious, the only ones who seemed to care about me were the wolves. About an hour later a shadowy figure loomed over me and leaned down to cradle me, his eyes were full of compassion, just looking at him made me feel calm. He took me to his home and raised me like a son, taught me the way of the blade, loved me. I never knew what would befall me after the next five-hundred years. Fifteen-hundred years ago. Five hundred years old and the best duelist in the southern wilds, I had something nopony else had, lifetimes of experience. I was so cock sure of my abilities that I left my father for the western wilds, and quickly discovered that these so called Masters were nothing more than squires. over the next two and a half centuries I conquered the western, and northern wilds. As I journeyed toward the eastern wilds I came across a small settlement of pegasi, called Pegasopolis, at the time I knew not of any other species, other than mine and My father's. I kept close watch on these creatures, they had wings like mine but no horn, they could move clouds, control the weather. I was greeted by a tall light green stallion. "My name is Hurricane, you look tired, come with me let's get you something to eat and a place for you to kick your hooves up." He was kind most would draw their swords and charge me, but this one seemed different. "What's your name stranger?" It occured to me Father never gave me a name, I watch the flowers and find a name. "Monarch." "Monarch, fine name for a fine warrior." "What makes you think I'm a warrior?" "There was news of a black alicorn defeating entire armies, but I doubted that, a warrior always carries a weapon." An alicorn was that what I was called. "Thank you for the hospitality, but I do not want to impose." "Don't be so formal we're all friends here," "Friends," I sipped the warm liquid from the cup he handed me. The snow was starting to melt under the sun's heat. "So, may I see your sword?" "Of course." I unsheath my blade and toss it to him. "Hmn, nice balanced blade, two handed hilt, gold filagre running up the blade and down the hilt, this is mythril isn't it," "Orichalcum," "A very rare item indeed, wait a moment I've seen this design before," He reached for his blade and held it next to mine. "These were forged by the same smith, if I'm not mistaken." "You are not mistaken Hurricane, they were forged by the one and only, Blacksmithe." An elderly one the same as my father said as he staggered over leaning on his cane. "He only made three, the two before you and the one given to the captain of the royal guard." "I see you're up and about Silverwind. How are you feeling?" "Pretty good I guess, these old bones don't do much anymore, but I can't complain. We got new land it's a fresh start for us, just in time too, didn't know how much longer I could stand the cold." "I was frozen for five hours how do you think I feel, what a shot to my ego, getting saved by a Private." "Well cheer up this is a new day, and I think we need a celebration." "I have the perfect idea nothing raises morale like competition. Tonight we shall duel for the good of the troops, and I haven't had a chance to use this in a long time, both it and my skills are kinda rusty, please respect an old stallion's wish and accept my challenge." "So did you?" Scootaloo and two mysterious fillies asked piercing the flashback. "Of course I did, and it goes without saying it was the best fight of my life. Let's fast forward a bit to the fight." The goal was not to kill but to land five hits on the opponent, each of us were outfitted in iron armor to keep the fight fairly. "Why iron?" The yellow earth pony asked. "Because iron cancels magic unicorn, pegasus, or otherwise." "Pegasi have magic?" "Yes, you can stand on clouds and control the weather, while others can't" "That explains alot." "Now can we get back to the flashback please?" they all nodded. Both of us clad in armor were given iron swords as well and stood as equals as the sun set. I knew my warrior's instinct would carry me to victory but I had no idea how hard this battle would be. We were soon surrounded by soldiers waiting for the match to start. I was albeit nervous, I never had spectators before. The first move and point was his, as the second, third, and fourth. I was on the ropes one more point and I would lose. I swung catching him off guard hitting him twice. I lunged slashing, he blocked two slashes but the other two hit dead on. Each left with one point to win we swung hitting each other at the same time. The troops were cheering. "That was amazing!" He said. "Yeah it was close." We shook each other's hands and became good friends. Present "Aw man a tie that's so stupid." Scootaloo seemed dissapointed. "I know he shoulda won." The yellow earth pony replied. "I'm just happy nopony got hurt." The white unicorn said. "May I ask your names." "Applebloom." "Sweetie Belle." "Scootaloo." "The Cutie Mark Crusaders!" They screamed in unison busting an eardrum. "Well I best be going don't want to keep her waiting." "Be sure to come by later we'll be here." Cress yelled. "I'll try." I walked out and flew back to Canterlot. About half an hour later I was back at the castle waiting for Luna to come out in her dress but instead she was wearing her black leather jumpsuit. "I know how much you hate formal, and I heard there was a party down in Ponyville for those who weren't invited, so I asked sister if we could go there instead and she said yes." "Thank you so much," I was relieved that I didn't have to spend one more second in this suit. I ran to our room and slipped into some street clothes and walked back. "I love you so much right now." "I know." She smiled and Nebula flew off with us back to Ponyville.
Chapter 10: An Old Pony's TaleChapter 10: An Old Pony's Tale. (P.O.V. Switch, Starswirl.) I awake to the crackle of fire and the Behemoth roasting a buck he had obviously killed while I was sleeping. His helmet was sitting next to him as he stared at the moon. I shift my gaze toward the moon and find that Luna had been released yet I felt no disturbance in the balance of time. I was glad I hid the true Elements inside each of my friends their descendants must have found each other at the right time, I also felt the presence of the seventh, Amazingly he did not pass his element on in death or child conception, he kept it. I could never truly understand that one, it was the only element that you couldn't give away you had to find it on your own. "Good morning Sorcerer," "May I ask your name," I sit up and run my hand through the grass. "Captain Scarab Chief of the Hive Guard." "The Prince," "No that right was and still is Brother's." "The prodigal son judging by the current events has he been killed." "No, he's been thrown away." "Your sister didn't like the idea of being the second fiddleback." "You are the only one other than Brother that saw me as a living being, and not a mindless drone." "Where is your Brother I need to speak with him." "Ponyville, he's been going between there and Canterlot the past few days. He's made himself quite the little hive there, he's got a kid, some friends and a queen." "You mean wife?" "Not yet, and he has a warrior keeping watch over his assets." "Does this warrior have a name?" "Monarch." "So he's been brought back, Cressendo must be progressing rapidly." "Indeed, I hate to spy on him," He sighed. "Then don't," I reach for some of the venison and take a bite. "I thought Ponies were vegetarians." "Now where'd you hear that?" I take another bite. "All of the prisoners would refuse to eat meat, but jumped at the chance to eat plants." "Then call me an exception to the rule. Why don't you warn your brother, or better yet help him?" "That I'm afraid is not an option, not with Sister breathing down my neck." "But, you saved me of your own free will." "That may be, but I cannot keep her out forever, there are only a select few that can keep her at bay," "How did she become like that," "Well it's all a blur, I'll remember as best I can," (P.O.V. Switch, Scarab.) "Our society is a monarchy one ruler unquestioned, our family have been the royals for one-thousand years. It was about thirty years ago when Brother was born, five years after I was, then another five passed and then Sister. As brother was eldest he was the heir, I of course didn't mind, the noble's life wasn't the one for me." "How so?" "I was more inclined toward father's ways, but not killing innocents," "I see, continue." "While brother was away I was left with Sister, for what she lacked in strength she made up for with intellect. One day I took her to the archives and in a matter of hours she had memorized half of the tomes on the shelves. Over the years she got the idea that she was better than us, her quick wit, high IQ, and massive ego did nothing to convince her otherwise. One day she found a tome that had a different description of how our heirarchy originally worked, the book dated back to the last days of the first rule. Pandora's personal Diary was filled with legends about the many unsung uses of the Flame, most dark and twisted, like the ability to take the life away, rather than create it, or the ability to add or subtract mass from living beings and add it to your own. You saw how she grew larger and stronger with each innocent she consumed." "How dare you accuse my daughter, of writing such things." A tall creature staggered toward me using a hammer as a cane. "Calm down, Hephaestus, it doesn't matter how she found out, all that matters is how to stop her." The Sorcerer tried to calm the creature. "Hephaestus the smith god, the creator of our society?" "Yes he is, why are you here?" "We have a problem look," He reached into a pocket and pulled out two flames, one black, the other green. "The gifted, has gained Zeus' powers too soon." "Can he use it?" The Sorcerer asked picking his teeth with a bone splinter. "Better than Zeus, but it takes alot out of him. I have to hand it to him you were right, he brought a dead one back to life, and made a new body at the same time." The Sorcerer's eyes widened, he took thirty minutes to think. (P.O.V. Switch, Starswirl.) He is progressing too rapidly but he was a truly brilliant youth, he held the power of the Gods, but he kept sane, any other candidate would become drunk with power. Given how fast the darkness is approaching I may have to reveal the truth....
Chapter 1: Dreams Are SacredChapter 1: Dreams Are Sacred.(P.O.V.Switch, Monarch.) "I'm so bored." Nebula shifted in his seat. "Took the words right outta my mouth, kid." "Why don't we do something, Father?" "Because, Son, your mother told us to wait here." "How did you meet?" He asked as Luna walked out in a ornate dress. "That's the same dress you wore on our wedding day." "You look beautiful, Mother." "You really think so?" She twirled around. "Sorry to be a buzzkill, but Cress has something important to tell us," I interrupt not breaking my eye contact with her. "When will he be arriving?" "Shortly after four o'clock, says he's got an important guest." "Looking forward to it," Celes stepped behind Luna. "Now go on you three, I can handle the kingdom for a day." "Thank you Big Sister." She hugged Celes and ran off to our room to change. "Well, how did you and Mother meet?" "Long story," "Oh it's not that long," Celes sat down next to me as I tried not to stare at her exquisite figure. "He was in the lunar guard, personal bodyguard for your mother." "And we started dating, fell in love, and tried to get married, but Enigma wouldn't have that, and tried to kill me, I'm just glad he's not here now." "He was just trying to protect me." Celes said. "I'll believe that, when pigs fly." I look out the window and see a flying pig. "Very funny Celes." I turn my head to Nebula and his nose was bleeding. "He's my boy alright, lucky kid almost can't tell," "Almost," Celes giggled. "Almost can't tell he's blushing either." "Quit pickin' on the kid, that happened to me the first time I saw you too."
