Guardian of Equestriaby twilightrusstleChaptersPrologue-The DeathThe Precipice of Change Discoveries Waking up Prologue-The DeathChapter 1 "So, it has finally come to this," Russ said to himself as he faced his enemy. He stood among the rubble of what was downtown Grand Rapids. Across from him, the demonic being named Legion. This creature consumed the souls of those he killed, and added them to his own power. Russ knew that he had to defeat Legion, or the demon would consume his soul, along with his powers...that could not happen "You cannot defeat us Guardian," the demon spoke with the multitude of voices that inhabited his essence, "We have slept and waited fifty years longer, so that we could finally achieve our ultimate goal", he then paused, and smiled, "To consume you!". In a flash, Legion advanced toward Russ, arms outstretched. Russ attempted to dodge his enemy, but he was to late, the demon had him in his clutches, it laughed. "RRRAAARRRGH, LET ME GOOO!!!", Russ cried. He then fired beams of energy from his eyes, hitting Legion square in the face. The demon lost his grip on the meta-human. When Russ made contact with the ground, he jumped into a back-flip, hitting his adversary in the jaw. Then before landing, he flipped up, raised his arms, and fired a volley of energy from his hands. All the the projectiles hit their target. Russ looked up after his landing, but the demon still stood, almost unscathed. His fury burned inside him, and he screamed at the top of his lungs, "WHY WON'T YOU FUCKING DIEEEE?". Conjuring a energized sword, he rushed his enemy, his mind flashed back to past couple years, and what had led up to this. ************************** In the summer after his senior year, Russ had been having a series of cryptic dreams, all involving a strange man with super-powers. At the time, Russ thought it was nothing. But then one day, in the month of July, his life would change forever. He had been on a camping trip with his fiance, Storm, and some other friends. Russ had had another dream, so he went outside to take walk down to the beach to clear his head. He had been sitting there, watching the waves for about fifteen minutes, when he heard a voice behind him. "Beautiful night, isn't it?", the voice asked. Russ turned around quickly. Startled at first, not expecting anyone to be out there with him. The owner of the voice was an older looking gentlemen, about six feet tall, an wearing a black trench coat. "Y-Ya, it really is", Russ replied, he then felt strangely compelled to ask, "Are you the man from my dreams?". The man looked down at Russ and smiled, "Yes Russ, I am", He said in a calm voice. He reached out his hand, and Russ took it in his own. At that moment, a bright light shined from the man's hand. Russ shielded his eyes from the light, but it soon enveloped him. Russ found himself floating in the air, unsure of where he was. He look around, and saw he was surrounded by other people, all were smiling at him. "Welcome, Russell Henry Harms", they said in unison, voices warm as the light around him "You have been chosen to be Earth's new Guardian ". "The Guardian?" Russ asked. "The Guardian is a meta-being, a being with unique special powers. In this case you would be a meta-human, since you are human. You, Russell Henry Harms, will be entrusted with the protection of the Earth", one of the individuals said, "whether it be an evil of the Earth, or one outside it. Every planet has a Guardian, you are part of sacred order as old as the universe itself". "You will be granted great powers", another continued, "with them, you will be able to do incredible things". He, along with many others, demonstrated a few examples. From flying to telekinesis, all manner of physical and mental abilities. Russ stared in awe at the spectacle around him, he couldn't believe what he was seeing. Russ then asked, "Why me? I'm just a normal person." The man that had first met him appeared in front of him, "You have exhibited the qualities needed of a Guardian, courage, integrity, a sense of what's right during trying times, and a knack for thinking outside the box", he said warmly. "You are the best person for this privilege". The man reached out his hand and touched Russ on the shoulder, "Do you accept?" he asked. Russ smirked and said, "Yes, I do", and with that the company of former Guardians began to glow and the light enveloped him. Russ could feel the power enter his veins, it was a warm and strengthening feeling. But then, Russ felt something that wasn't warm and pure, but dark and threatening. Russ heard the sound of the man's voice, "There is one warning we have to give you. Beware of Legion, he is being of great evil, and knows nothing of remorse or guilt". The man went on, "Every fifty years, he escapes his prison, and goes out into the earth to consume the souls of any and all". Russ then saw in his mind the images of this dark creature, and what he saw, was horrifying. "But I have never met Legion, he never came out of his prison during my time. I fear he his biding his time, gaining more power so he can do what he has wanted to do for all time. Consume the Guardian, and gain its powers. "How do defeat him?" Russ asked frantically. The man replied, "You must beat him into submission, using whatever means necessary. Russ swallowed hard, "What if I can't?", the man was silent for a second then replied, "If you cannot stop Legion, then the only thing you can do is banish him from this dimension" he went on, "Legion is bound to this dimension and universe, he cannot exist outside it. If he is banished, his essence will deteriorate, and he will be more. "If that what it takes", Russ replied. The man sighed and said, "There is a price if you do this, the act of dimension banishment is such a horrendous deed that if you issue it, you must be banished as well. There is no telling where you end up, or if you will survive. Russ thought about the consequences, if he did this, he would surely save the earth, and save those he loves. But he would never see them again, "I can't bear the thought...if Legion found Storm...", he said aloud. Russ took in a deep breath, and let it out, then he announced his decision, "If I find that there is no way to defeat Legion, and I have exhausted every option, I will banish him", he paused, "I'll do whatever it takes". "Then we wish you the best of luck Russell Henry Harms", the former Guardians said, "The incantation for banishment is spoken in the language of the universe, known on earth as Latin". "I'm ready", Russ said. "Then prepare yourself", the multitude said, and a blinding light enveloped Russ. It felt warm, kind, and protecting. Russ felt an empowering force fill his body. He could feel the power of the Guardian fill is mind and soul. "The incantation goes as follows," the multitude said, "Custodes Ordinis vi et animi custos mihi hoc exsilium ab hac rerum universitate. It means, by the power of the Guardian Order, and the Guardian soul in me, I hereby banish you from this universe". Russ felt the power surge through him, and then the light stopped. He opened his eyes to see that he was back on the beach. Russ looked around, the man was gone and there were no signs of his footprints either. He then noticed something on his hand, but he already knew what it was. The Guardian symbol, and shield with a ribbon curling around it. He could see the knowledge and wonders of the universe in his head. "Wow", he said, "this is a lot to take in". He looked out onto Lake Michigan, he breathed in and sighed. "Well", he began, "looks like a got big job to do, and I'm gonna do it right. Look out Legion cause there is a new sheriff in town". Russ then reeled back and hurled a ball of energy into the night sky. *********************** Russ brought his blade down upon Legion, it shattered on contact. He backed away in disbelief and terror. "N-n-no...this can't be!!" Russ stammered. Legion grinned, "We are more powerful than you can imagine", the demon grabbed Russ by the throat and lifted him in the air. His dead stare bore into Russ' soul. Russ struggled to get free, but Legion's grip was firm. "Oh ya", Russ gasped, "If your so *gasp* powerful, then why *gasp* do you need me". Legion replied, "One Guardian is easy, but an army", he brought Russ' face closer, "that's where we will need your powers". Legion then threw Russ into the nearest building. Russ struck the wall at the speed of sound. "Owww...that...hurt", Russ said weakly. He fell from the wall and landed face first. "You are weak Guardian, you have failed this world, and the ones you love. Your soul and powers, are now ours", Legion said Russ slowly rose to his feat, his anger and rage burned like a million suns. "THIS, ENDS, NOW!!" He cried. He flew towards Legion with blinding speed. Russ struck the demon dead center, he flew up in the air, let go of his foe, then lunged back at him, heading straight to the ground. They hit the ground, hard. Both combatants lay in the bottom of the impact crater, with Russ standing over Legion. "YOU HAVE TAKEN EVERYTHING FROM ME!!!" he screamed, "MY HOME, MY FRIENDS, MY FAMILY!!!", he paused, "My beloved Storm", tears streamed down his face. "There is no point to this anymore", he continued, "So we will both go". Legion began to rise but Russ pinned him down. "You wouldn't dare", Legion said. Russ leaned forward and simply said, "I do". He put his hands together and began to say,"Custodes Ordinis vi et". "NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!", Legion cried. Russ continued, "Animi custos mihi hoc exsilium". Legion struggled to get free, "WE CANNOT BE DEFEATED!!!!", he screamed, but it was too late. Russ finished the incantation, "AB HAC RERUM UNIVERSITATE!!". Light surrounded Russ and Legion creating a sphere. Legion began to pound against the walls, but to no avail. Legion screamed, "NNOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!". He turned as a rift began to open, "NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!", he cried his last as he was pulled into the rift. Russ too felt the pull of the rift, and he began to get pulled in,"I love you Storm...I'll see you soon", he said. With that Russell Henry Harms, Guardian of the earth, was sucked into the rift, and was no more. Both him and Legion were gone, and the earth was safe. Silence fell upon the battlefield, and only the sound of the wind remained. Author's Note Wow this took me a long time. hey i gotta start somewhere The Precipice of Change The Precipice of Change Chapter 2 Twilight Sparkle awoke from her dream in a cold sweat, as she had for the past couple nights. It was the same dream again and again. Two strange two-legged creatures fighting. One looked noble and heroic, the other was evil, very evil. She threw of the covers and walked slowly downstairs to the kitchen of her library tree house. She entered the kitchen and used her magic to fill a teapot with some water. She sighed, "I just need a warm drink, that's all", she lit a burner and set the teapot on it. She then went to retrieve a teabag. Honey oats and apples, her favorite. She placed the bag into the pot and sat down by the table. She thought about her dreams. What did they mean? Are they random or not? Twilight then used her magic to pull over her quill and a piece of paper. She then began to write and read aloud, "Dear Princess Celestia, the past few nights, I have been having these strange dreams. Same dream every time. I have been unable to get a good nights sleep since the dreams started. I would like to talk to you and/or Princess Luna about them. I don't what to do, and I'm starting to get scared. Please help me. From your student, Twilight Sparkle". Twilight finished and sealed the letter. She placed it on the table. "I'll have Spike send this in the morning", she said. She then yawned, the teapot then began to whistle. Twilight took it of the burner and poured herself a cup. She sipped her tea in silence, and when she was done, she went back upstairs to her room. She hopped back into bed and pulled up the covers, she slowly but surely began to fall asleep. **************************** Twilight awoke in the morning to the sound of banging on her door, and a familiar voice followed. "TWILIGHT!!!! WAKE UP SLEEPY HEAD!!!" Pinkie Pie's energetic voice came through the door, "TODAY'S THE DAY!!" Twilight's eyes shot open, how could she forget, it was Rainbow Dash's homecoming from the Wonderbolt Academy. She quickly jumped out of bed and rushed downstairs to the door. She turned the nob and opened it. Pinkie burst in with the biggest smile on her face. "OHMYGOSH OHMYGOSH OHMYGOSH!!!" She yelled happily, " TODAY'S THE DAY, TODAY's THE DAYYYY!!!". Twilight smiled, "Yes, I'm very excited to see Dash too", she said, "I just need to get ready and gather a couple things and then we will be off". Pinkie bounced around the room, "Okie dokie lokie", she said, "I'll just wait outside". Pinkie then proceeded to bounce out the door. Twilight only laughed. "Oh Pinkie", Twilight said. She then turned to go into the kitchen. She began to gather the item she had prepared for today. "Napkins, check. Plates, check. Cups, check". She continued through her list until she was satisfied with everything. "All set to go Twi?" asked a voice from behind her. Twilight turned to see Spike in the doorway. "Yep, all set", she replied, "But before we go can you send that letter on the table to the Princess?" Spike looked at the letter, and grabbed it of the table. "Sure thing Twilight" he said. He took in a huge breath and blew out a flame engulfing the letter. The smoke cloud wisked out the window and went on its way. Twilight smiled, "Thanks Spike", she noogied him with her hoof. "Anytime", he said cheerfully. He turned and headed towards the front door. Twilight look out the window the letter had just gone, I hope you can help me she thought to herself. She then turned and walked out the front door. Unknowing that just outside Ponyville, on the edge of the Everfree forest. A strange distortion had opened about four feet in the air, and out of it, came a strange creature. ********************** Twilight and Spike made their way to Ponyville square, many ponies were already there anxiously awaiting for Rainbow Dash. "Wow" Spike exclaimed, "This is quite the turnout". "Well considering that we may be meeting the very next Wonderbolt". Twilight said, "I'm not surprised that a lot of ponies are here". "Look!" Spike exclaimed, "There's Applejack and Rarity". Twilight looked to where Spike was pointing, she saw AJ and Rarity standing together. She also noticed that Spike was standing a little straighter. Oh Spike, he's so lovestruck for Rarity, she chuckled to herself. Applejack turned to noticed Twilight and Spike, she waved to them, "Howdy you two!!" "Hey girls", Twilight replied. Rarity turned to them, she was wearing a Wonderbolt themed outfit. A blue summer dress with yellow lightning bolts, That's very modest even for her, Twilight thought to herself. "Why Twilight darling", Rarity said, "We were wondering when you would show up". She winked at Spike, he blushed "Hi Rarity", was all Spike got out. Twilight only smiled. She looked around, someone was missing. "Has anyone seen Fluttershy?", she asked. Applejack shook her head, "She tol me she ain't comin", she said, "she foun a fox that was hurtin bad". "Oh that's a shame", Twilight replied, "Dash really wanted us all to be here." "Don't fret non Twi, ah heard RD is gonna be here soon", Applejack said, "and knowing her she is prolly gonna make a big-" she was cut of by the sound of flying overhead. Everypony looked up to see a Pegasus formation, and leading it was none other than Rainbow Dash. At that moment, there was a fanfare of music and everypony turned to see Pinkie Pie shooting Confetti into the sky, the crowd cheered. **********Moments before*********** The burning sensation came hard at Russ, he clenched hard felt as every single atom in is body was breaking apart, he waited for the end, it only got worse and worse, until he could hold it in no more "AAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!", he cried as the pain seered through his body until it became to much and he passed out. Not to far away three young fillies heard the cry, they all stopped to see where it came from. "What was that!", Sweetiebell exclaimed,"it sounded like somepony was in trouble". Applebloom scanned around the area, "It sounded like it came from thata way", she said pointing to Everfree Forest Scootaloo stopped, she wanted to get back to Ponyville to see Rainbow Dash's return home, but she heard the cry. As much as she wanted to she RD, she knew it was the right thing to do. "Okay", she sighed, "But let's do this fast". Applebloom was excited, "We could get life-saving cutie marks from this!", she said, "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS AWAY!!". All three fillies hoof bumped, then headed to the Everfree Forest, not knowing they were being followed. ************************** Everypony surrounded Rainbow Dash as she landed, she stood proud with a smile on her face, and sporting her new Wonderbolts uniform. Twilight and the others pushed through the crowd to get to her. "Rainbow Dash over here!!", Twilight shouted. Rainbow looked over to see her friends. She jumped into the air and landed next to them. She was so excited to see them, she then tackled them. "Ooohhhhhh, I miss you guys so much!", she said. The group embraced, although Rarity stuggled to get free. "Oh my brand new dress", she flustered, she broke the group hug, " Your getting it all dirty!". The others simply laughed. "Oh Rainbow Dash, a Wonderbolt you are", Pinkie began to sing, everyone laughed more. "C'mon y'all" AJ said, "Let's get something to eat" everyone agreed. They began to make their way through the crowd, Rainbow Dash giving high five and other various forms of recognition to her new fans. They got to the local cafe that Twilight had made reservations for, The Frolicing Filly, all 5 mares sat down and began to order. Rainbow Dash began to tell them all about her training and some of the highlights. "Oh there was this one time" , she said, "One of our instructors, bet us all to try and beat his record at the confidence course. So of course I-", She was cut of by the surprisingly loud entrance of a pink haired mare, looking very distressed "Hey Fluttershy", Twilight said, noticing her friends look, " What going on, I thought you had to take care of a fox?" Fluttershy gasped a few breathes then was able to cough out "Sweetie Bell *gasp* Apple Bloom *gasp* Scootaloo *gasp* big trouble *gasp* near my house" , not more than a second after she finished, Applejack and Rarity where out the door soon followed by the others, with Fluttershy trailing behind. Discoveries Discoveries Chapter 3 Russ breathed in and out slowly, he smelled the scent of pine on the wind, heard the chirping of birds, felt the grass on his face. Am I alive?, he thought to himself. He slowly opened his eyes to see the world around him. He saw trees, grass, hills, flowers, and the sight of mountains in the distance. "I'm alive?" he said aloud, he moved his head to view the rest of his surroundings and turned on his back. "I...I'm alive!" Russ began to say excitedly, but then he stopped realizing this revelation, he became angry. "Why am I alive", he said with contempt in his voice, "I should be dead, why am I not dead!? ALL I WANTED TO DO WAS DIE!!!!". Tears streamed down his face, the one thing he wanted, and the universe took it away. After all that had happened, the war with Legion, his unbearable losses, and he still had to endure the pain. "THIS ISN'T FAIR", he cried in anguish, "WHYYYYYYYYYYYYY?!!!!!". Russ pounded on the the ground, until he realized what he was pounding the ground with. He looked down to see that he no longer had hands, or skin for that matter, but four legs with hooves, and bright red fur. He gaped in disbelief at this discovery, he was a pony, "W-W-What the hell is going on?" ************************* The Cutie Mark Crusaders ran through the Everfree Forest trying to escape the pack of timber wolves close behind them. They ducked and weaved through the foliage trying to escape their pursuers. They came across a creek and jumped down the embankment. Scootaloo noticed a small hole under a tree behind some roots, just big enough for them to hide in. She pointed, "Quick! In there", Sweetie Bell and Apple Bloom turned and followed Scoots. They all crammed in their hiding spot and tried to catch their breathes. They listened they could hear the timber wolves approach, the hunters jumped into the creek and began to search for the three fillies. They paced around for awhile then growled when they found nothing, they took off following the creek. Apple Bloom sighed, " Wheww, Ah thought they'd find us", they all chuckled nervously, but then the entrance of their hiding place was filled with the face of a timber wolf. "AAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!", they screamed as the timber wolf clawed to reach them, but the roots kept it just beyond reach. The trio pushed themselves as far back into the hole as possible as more timber wolves converged on the location. ******************************* Russ had stumbled his way to a nearby pond, he stuck his face in the water and drank heavily, afterwards he noted how pure the water was. As soon as he a satisfied his thirst he began to examine his new physical appearance. His eyes where still the same color, he a square like snout, the hair on this head was a very brilliant white, and so was his tail. He looked at his new legs, he could see his hooves they where a tan color. Russ sat on his rump and stared at the water, looking at himself. How had this happened? How had he been saved and changed into a pony, he tried to understand only to come to the conclusion that he was given a second chance, and he was supposed to to something here. "But where am I anyway", Russ said aloud, he began to piece together what he knew, he could feel that the world and the environment around him seemed healthier, almost untouched by any form of pollution, and there was something magical in the air. He tested the composition of the water given his enhanced senses, no impurities what so ever. No foreign chemicals, no synthetic compounds, it was pure water. This and he was a pony, Russ had his answer but he didn't want to believe it. "Am I in EQUESTRIA?!!", he said in disbelief. His thoughts where cut short by the sound of screams coming from the nearby forest. He quickly stood up, trying to get used to his new anatomy, but he soon adjusted to what he thought was an acceptable level. "Sometimes you gotta run before you can walk", he said, and with that he took of in the direction of the cries of distress. ******************************** Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the forest six mares were also headed to the same place. "HURRY!!", AJ screamed. Out of all them, Rarity and Applejack were running the fastest. They heard the screams in the distance, along with the howls of timber wolves. We may not make it, Twilight thought, but she pushed it aside and only pushed faster. ******************************* "AAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEE", the three fillies screamed in terror as the timber wolves began to dig and tear away their hiding place. One of the predators had ripped away the last of the roots and was about to reach them, but was blasted in the face by Sweetie Bell's magic. "RUN!!", she cried, and the trio made a break for it, only to have halted. They where surrounded by their hunters, they circled them and began to close in. The fillies huddled together and covered their eyes and began to cry. This is it, Scootaloo thought, we're gonna die. One of the timber wolves made a lunge at the three, only to be knocked of course and taken down. The fillies looked up and saw a earth pony with dark red fur and a white mane and tall. He had tackled the timber wolf, pinning on its belly, he placed one hoof on the back of its neck, and with the other, he reached under its jaw and twisted hard, breaking its neck. He looked up, he had a burning in his eyes. He spoke his voice stern, "Leave them alone you vile creatures", he stared the pack down, "your fight is with me now", he stamped his fore hooves on the ground and let out a battle cry. The wolves took a step back and growled in return. The earth pony turned to the frightened fillies, "Go!", he said, "run! I'll hold them off", they looked at him, not know what to to. When he saw they were not leaving, he repeated with more earnest, "GOO!", and with that, the trio ran passed him down the creek, not looking back ******************************* After the trio where out of sight, Russ turned to face his foe. Okay, five of them one of me, he thought. "This will be easy", he finished aloud, and he raised his hoof to blast them all. But after a few seconds, Russ felt no build of power, his hoof did not glow with energy. Confused, he tried again, but no energy came from him, he then realized. "My..powers..are GONE?!!!", he stammered, just then, the packed rushed him. Russ jumped above them, dodging their attack. When he landed, one wolf turned and lunged. Russ sidestepped, swung up a leg under its stomach, grabbed it and swung into another. Both creatures fell apart into a pile of sticks. Russ had his backed turned to the other wolves, and he soon felt a strong grasp on his shoulder, and felt a timber wolf sink his teeth into him. "AAAAAARRRRRRRGGGHHHHHH", Russ cried in pain, he stood on his hind legs and smashed the wold into a large rock, it crumbled away. Russ grabbed his shoulder and fell to his front knees, he looked in the flowing water and saw the pool of red forming. His eyes shot open when realized, "That's my blood", he said in horror, "My. Blood". His powers were gone, his protective aura was gone, but he could feel his accelerated healing working, barely. The remaining wolves closed in slowly, Russ slowly stood to his hooves. Maybe I should just give in, he thought, after all, I wanted to die. But then something in him stirred, he felt a flame ignite within him. His powers weren't gone, just recharging, Russ smirked and said, "I'm not gonna die just yet". He then reared up gathering up what power he could, and brought his hooves down. On impact, there was a small flash and a shock wave that sent the timber wolves flying. The explosion flew outward throwing water, mud, dirt, and stick from it. After everything had settled, Russ breathed heavily, he fell to the ground, his head pounding and ears ringing. He looked up to the canopy, the sun shone through it in rays, he smiled. He then heard voices approaching, they were muffled, but Russ knew they were getting closer. The last thing he saw before he succumb to the darkness, were six figures that resembled something he had seen before. Author's Note if you want to know what russ looks like its my avatar Waking up Waking up Chapter 4 Everypony else had gone home for the night, but Dash and Twilight had stayed behind at Ponyville Hospital to watch over their new friend. Twilight recalled the events that had taken place, they found Sweetie Bell, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo unharmed, they then said that their was a pony who had helped them escape and was facing the timber wolves alone. Twilight, Dash, Pinkie, and Fluttershy ran to help this pony while Rarity and Applejack took the fillies to safety. Before they got to where the trio said he was, there was some kind of explosion, they found the pony in question at where it had come from. He was unconscious and badly bleeding, so Twilight quickly healed him and then the four brought him to the hospital E.R.. AJ and Rarity came by with the Crusaders to see how he was doing. After some questions for the fillies, and some discussion, they found he had saved the trio. But they had no idea who he was or where he came from, and the strangest thing of all, he didn't have a cutie mark. Twilight and Dash had stayed up most of the night talking about their heroic friend for many hours, until they fell asleep. ***************************** It was early morning when Rainbow Dash woke up to the sound of moaning and mumbling, she look to see that it was their patient. She walked over to him, she could here him saying something. "Storm...Storm...", he mumbled, "Uhhhh...Storm...no...n-no". He then began to toss and turn, he got louder, "No, Storm, no...stop, please,,,let her go". He suddenly began to trash around, and said even louder, " No no no, leave her alone, leave her alone, no Storm no!". Rainbow then tried to hold him still, he struggled against her. "Hey hey hey", she said, "It's okay, your safe no one is gonna hurt you". He began to fight harder, his voice getting louder still. It was at this Twilight woke up, and she ran over to the bed to help Dash. "What happened!", she screamed, trying to hold the colt down. Dash struggled to hold him, " I don't know", she replied, "He just started talking, and then this!", both mares were putting all their strength into trying to contain the trashing pony. Twilight then used a calming spell on him, the purple aura surrounded him then seeped into his body. He slowly then relaxed, breathing heavily, then he started crying, softly. Twilight reached over and began to stroke his white mane. "Shhhhhh", she hushed, "your gonna be okay, I'm here with you". She looked over at Dash, "He must have been having a nightmare". she said. "But who is Storm?' Dash asked, "He kept saying that, and he said her, some mare in his life maybe?" Twilight shrugged "Maybe, but we won't find out till he wakes up", she look back to him, "I feel so bad for him, what could he have possibly have gone through?" He continued to cry as she stroked his mane. Then he stopped and his eyes began to flutter open, "Dash, go get a nurse quick!" she said to her friend. Dash nodded and ran out of the room. Twilight look anxiously at the pony on the bed, she was finally going to figure out who this colt was. Russ remembered passing out, after that only flashes of memory. Things that were, some of the things he saw pained him. He tried to force them out, but was a prisoner in own mind. He tried to shout, but voice came. He struggled against the darkness that held him, and he began to wake up. He began to hear was was going on around him, light filled into his eyes, and he saw someone standing over him. He determined female, her presence was familiar to him, but he could not place it. he then heard her voice flow into his ears. "Don't worry", she said, "your okay, a nurse is coming". Nurse? He must be in a hospital. Russ tried to focus in on the voice, to pull himself out. He fought against the darkness, until he was able to open his eyes and let the light pool in. He felt his spirit fill he body, he was awake and the first thing he saw, was a cyan colored pony, with a rainbow mane standing in the door way. No...way,he thought to himself. He then looked over to so see a purple unicorn standing over him smiling warmly. "Good to see you awake" she said, "you've been out for awhile, how are you feeling?" Russ stared for a second, then replied, "I'm feeling fine, how did I get here?" Rainbow, had stepped aside as the nurse came in, when the colt asked his question, she quickly answered, "We carried you here, you were in really bad shape". she looked at him curiously. The nurse began to inspect him. "Well you seem to be in one piece", she deducted, " A few more days and you'll be out of here", she turned to Twilight, "He looking good, call me if you need anything" , she said. Twilight nodded. "We will, thank you so much", she said. The nurse nodded and walked out, as soon as she closed the door, Twilight turned back to the earth pony. "I guess we should introduce ourselves", she said, "I'm Twilight Sparkle". "And I'm Rainbow Dash!", Dash quickly added, "the fastest flier in all of Equestria, and newest Wonderbolt!" she did a backflip Russ couldn't believe it, this was all real, he didn't know what to think. He then realized that what Dash had said, so that meant that he was here at a point in time that was behind where the show was on Earth. He had knowledge of this world possible future. He could change things, but then he realized what had happened the last time he messed with destiny, and that didn't end well. "So what's your name, and where are you from?", the purple mare asked him, Russ' mind began racing he had to come up with some lie for now, they wouldn't believe him if he told them the truth. He tried to scan their minds for information, but he couldn't get much, his telepathy was weak. So he tried using what knowledge he had from the show and fandom. Then he had it. "My name is Rusty Charger", he said, "but call me Russ". Twilight smiled warmly, "Well it's very nice to meet you Russ" "But where are you from?" Rainbow asked, she squinted her eyes at him. "I'm from Detrot", he answered. He hoped that it existed. Twilight was shocked, "Wow, that's all the way across Equestria", Russ breathed a mental sigh of relief, "What brings you to Ponyville?", she asked him. Russ thought for a second, then said, "Trying to get a new start, I've made some mistakes and I need a clean slate", he then looked down at his hooves, "You saved my life", he looked up at the two mares, "Thank you" Twilight looked at him with a straight face, "We should thank you as well", she said, "You saved two of our friends sister's and one of their friends", she smiled, "That was very brave of you". Rainbow Dash then walked over, "Yeah man, your a hero" , she said and hoofed his shoulder. He frowned and looked away. "I'm no hero", Russ said, a bitterness in his voice, "I don't deserve it, I was just in the right place at the right time, for once". Dash frowned and put her hoof on his shoulder, "I don't care if you think you don't deserve it but we do", she said "Yeah", Twilight said, "Your a hero to us, and to the fillies you saved". Russ looked up at her, she could see pain in his eyes, and there was something that he was hiding. Twilight then decided to ask the big question, and Russ sensed it. "So...", she began, "how is that you don't have a cutie mark". Russ shifted uncomfortably, Shit, fan-fucking-tastic, he thought, what am I going to tell them. He mind ran a million miles an hour, trying to figure out something. Before he could even open his mouth, the door burst open in a shower of confetti and party streamers, and standing in the middle of the doorway with the biggest smile Russ had ever seen was- "Pinkie Pie!!", Twilight and Dash exclaimed. "Oh boy", Russ said quietly to himself, "I'm doomed"
Prologue-The DeathChapter 1 "So, it has finally come to this," Russ said to himself as he faced his enemy. He stood among the rubble of what was downtown Grand Rapids. Across from him, the demonic being named Legion. This creature consumed the souls of those he killed, and added them to his own power. Russ knew that he had to defeat Legion, or the demon would consume his soul, along with his powers...that could not happen "You cannot defeat us Guardian," the demon spoke with the multitude of voices that inhabited his essence, "We have slept and waited fifty years longer, so that we could finally achieve our ultimate goal", he then paused, and smiled, "To consume you!". In a flash, Legion advanced toward Russ, arms outstretched. Russ attempted to dodge his enemy, but he was to late, the demon had him in his clutches, it laughed. "RRRAAARRRGH, LET ME GOOO!!!", Russ cried. He then fired beams of energy from his eyes, hitting Legion square in the face. The demon lost his grip on the meta-human. When Russ made contact with the ground, he jumped into a back-flip, hitting his adversary in the jaw. Then before landing, he flipped up, raised his arms, and fired a volley of energy from his hands. All the the projectiles hit their target. Russ looked up after his landing, but the demon still stood, almost unscathed. His fury burned inside him, and he screamed at the top of his lungs, "WHY WON'T YOU FUCKING DIEEEE?". Conjuring a energized sword, he rushed his enemy, his mind flashed back to past couple years, and what had led up to this. ************************** In the summer after his senior year, Russ had been having a series of cryptic dreams, all involving a strange man with super-powers. At the time, Russ thought it was nothing. But then one day, in the month of July, his life would change forever. He had been on a camping trip with his fiance, Storm, and some other friends. Russ had had another dream, so he went outside to take walk down to the beach to clear his head. He had been sitting there, watching the waves for about fifteen minutes, when he heard a voice behind him. "Beautiful night, isn't it?", the voice asked. Russ turned around quickly. Startled at first, not expecting anyone to be out there with him. The owner of the voice was an older looking gentlemen, about six feet tall, an wearing a black trench coat. "Y-Ya, it really is", Russ replied, he then felt strangely compelled to ask, "Are you the man from my dreams?". The man looked down at Russ and smiled, "Yes Russ, I am", He said in a calm voice. He reached out his hand, and Russ took it in his own. At that moment, a bright light shined from the man's hand. Russ shielded his eyes from the light, but it soon enveloped him. Russ found himself floating in the air, unsure of where he was. He look around, and saw he was surrounded by other people, all were smiling at him. "Welcome, Russell Henry Harms", they said in unison, voices warm as the light around him "You have been chosen to be Earth's new Guardian ". "The Guardian?" Russ asked. "The Guardian is a meta-being, a being with unique special powers. In this case you would be a meta-human, since you are human. You, Russell Henry Harms, will be entrusted with the protection of the Earth", one of the individuals said, "whether it be an evil of the Earth, or one outside it. Every planet has a Guardian, you are part of sacred order as old as the universe itself". "You will be granted great powers", another continued, "with them, you will be able to do incredible things". He, along with many others, demonstrated a few examples. From flying to telekinesis, all manner of physical and mental abilities. Russ stared in awe at the spectacle around him, he couldn't believe what he was seeing. Russ then asked, "Why me? I'm just a normal person." The man that had first met him appeared in front of him, "You have exhibited the qualities needed of a Guardian, courage, integrity, a sense of what's right during trying times, and a knack for thinking outside the box", he said warmly. "You are the best person for this privilege". The man reached out his hand and touched Russ on the shoulder, "Do you accept?" he asked. Russ smirked and said, "Yes, I do", and with that the company of former Guardians began to glow and the light enveloped him. Russ could feel the power enter his veins, it was a warm and strengthening feeling. But then, Russ felt something that wasn't warm and pure, but dark and threatening. Russ heard the sound of the man's voice, "There is one warning we have to give you. Beware of Legion, he is being of great evil, and knows nothing of remorse or guilt". The man went on, "Every fifty years, he escapes his prison, and goes out into the earth to consume the souls of any and all". Russ then saw in his mind the images of this dark creature, and what he saw, was horrifying. "But I have never met Legion, he never came out of his prison during my time. I fear he his biding his time, gaining more power so he can do what he has wanted to do for all time. Consume the Guardian, and gain its powers. "How do defeat him?" Russ asked frantically. The man replied, "You must beat him into submission, using whatever means necessary. Russ swallowed hard, "What if I can't?", the man was silent for a second then replied, "If you cannot stop Legion, then the only thing you can do is banish him from this dimension" he went on, "Legion is bound to this dimension and universe, he cannot exist outside it. If he is banished, his essence will deteriorate, and he will be more. "If that what it takes", Russ replied. The man sighed and said, "There is a price if you do this, the act of dimension banishment is such a horrendous deed that if you issue it, you must be banished as well. There is no telling where you end up, or if you will survive. Russ thought about the consequences, if he did this, he would surely save the earth, and save those he loves. But he would never see them again, "I can't bear the thought...if Legion found Storm...", he said aloud. Russ took in a deep breath, and let it out, then he announced his decision, "If I find that there is no way to defeat Legion, and I have exhausted every option, I will banish him", he paused, "I'll do whatever it takes". "Then we wish you the best of luck Russell Henry Harms", the former Guardians said, "The incantation for banishment is spoken in the language of the universe, known on earth as Latin". "I'm ready", Russ said. "Then prepare yourself", the multitude said, and a blinding light enveloped Russ. It felt warm, kind, and protecting. Russ felt an empowering force fill his body. He could feel the power of the Guardian fill is mind and soul. "The incantation goes as follows," the multitude said, "Custodes Ordinis vi et animi custos mihi hoc exsilium ab hac rerum universitate. It means, by the power of the Guardian Order, and the Guardian soul in me, I hereby banish you from this universe". Russ felt the power surge through him, and then the light stopped. He opened his eyes to see that he was back on the beach. Russ looked around, the man was gone and there were no signs of his footprints either. He then noticed something on his hand, but he already knew what it was. The Guardian symbol, and shield with a ribbon curling around it. He could see the knowledge and wonders of the universe in his head. "Wow", he said, "this is a lot to take in". He looked out onto Lake Michigan, he breathed in and sighed. "Well", he began, "looks like a got big job to do, and I'm gonna do it right. Look out Legion cause there is a new sheriff in town". Russ then reeled back and hurled a ball of energy into the night sky. *********************** Russ brought his blade down upon Legion, it shattered on contact. He backed away in disbelief and terror. "N-n-no...this can't be!!" Russ stammered. Legion grinned, "We are more powerful than you can imagine", the demon grabbed Russ by the throat and lifted him in the air. His dead stare bore into Russ' soul. Russ struggled to get free, but Legion's grip was firm. "Oh ya", Russ gasped, "If your so *gasp* powerful, then why *gasp* do you need me". Legion replied, "One Guardian is easy, but an army", he brought Russ' face closer, "that's where we will need your powers". Legion then threw Russ into the nearest building. Russ struck the wall at the speed of sound. "Owww...that...hurt", Russ said weakly. He fell from the wall and landed face first. "You are weak Guardian, you have failed this world, and the ones you love. Your soul and powers, are now ours", Legion said Russ slowly rose to his feat, his anger and rage burned like a million suns. "THIS, ENDS, NOW!!" He cried. He flew towards Legion with blinding speed. Russ struck the demon dead center, he flew up in the air, let go of his foe, then lunged back at him, heading straight to the ground. They hit the ground, hard. Both combatants lay in the bottom of the impact crater, with Russ standing over Legion. "YOU HAVE TAKEN EVERYTHING FROM ME!!!" he screamed, "MY HOME, MY FRIENDS, MY FAMILY!!!", he paused, "My beloved Storm", tears streamed down his face. "There is no point to this anymore", he continued, "So we will both go". Legion began to rise but Russ pinned him down. "You wouldn't dare", Legion said. Russ leaned forward and simply said, "I do". He put his hands together and began to say,"Custodes Ordinis vi et". "NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!", Legion cried. Russ continued, "Animi custos mihi hoc exsilium". Legion struggled to get free, "WE CANNOT BE DEFEATED!!!!", he screamed, but it was too late. Russ finished the incantation, "AB HAC RERUM UNIVERSITATE!!". Light surrounded Russ and Legion creating a sphere. Legion began to pound against the walls, but to no avail. Legion screamed, "NNOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!". He turned as a rift began to open, "NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!", he cried his last as he was pulled into the rift. Russ too felt the pull of the rift, and he began to get pulled in,"I love you Storm...I'll see you soon", he said. With that Russell Henry Harms, Guardian of the earth, was sucked into the rift, and was no more. Both him and Legion were gone, and the earth was safe. Silence fell upon the battlefield, and only the sound of the wind remained. Author's Note Wow this took me a long time. hey i gotta start somewhere
The Precipice of Change The Precipice of Change Chapter 2 Twilight Sparkle awoke from her dream in a cold sweat, as she had for the past couple nights. It was the same dream again and again. Two strange two-legged creatures fighting. One looked noble and heroic, the other was evil, very evil. She threw of the covers and walked slowly downstairs to the kitchen of her library tree house. She entered the kitchen and used her magic to fill a teapot with some water. She sighed, "I just need a warm drink, that's all", she lit a burner and set the teapot on it. She then went to retrieve a teabag. Honey oats and apples, her favorite. She placed the bag into the pot and sat down by the table. She thought about her dreams. What did they mean? Are they random or not? Twilight then used her magic to pull over her quill and a piece of paper. She then began to write and read aloud, "Dear Princess Celestia, the past few nights, I have been having these strange dreams. Same dream every time. I have been unable to get a good nights sleep since the dreams started. I would like to talk to you and/or Princess Luna about them. I don't what to do, and I'm starting to get scared. Please help me. From your student, Twilight Sparkle". Twilight finished and sealed the letter. She placed it on the table. "I'll have Spike send this in the morning", she said. She then yawned, the teapot then began to whistle. Twilight took it of the burner and poured herself a cup. She sipped her tea in silence, and when she was done, she went back upstairs to her room. She hopped back into bed and pulled up the covers, she slowly but surely began to fall asleep. **************************** Twilight awoke in the morning to the sound of banging on her door, and a familiar voice followed. "TWILIGHT!!!! WAKE UP SLEEPY HEAD!!!" Pinkie Pie's energetic voice came through the door, "TODAY'S THE DAY!!" Twilight's eyes shot open, how could she forget, it was Rainbow Dash's homecoming from the Wonderbolt Academy. She quickly jumped out of bed and rushed downstairs to the door. She turned the nob and opened it. Pinkie burst in with the biggest smile on her face. "OHMYGOSH OHMYGOSH OHMYGOSH!!!" She yelled happily, " TODAY'S THE DAY, TODAY's THE DAYYYY!!!". Twilight smiled, "Yes, I'm very excited to see Dash too", she said, "I just need to get ready and gather a couple things and then we will be off". Pinkie bounced around the room, "Okie dokie lokie", she said, "I'll just wait outside". Pinkie then proceeded to bounce out the door. Twilight only laughed. "Oh Pinkie", Twilight said. She then turned to go into the kitchen. She began to gather the item she had prepared for today. "Napkins, check. Plates, check. Cups, check". She continued through her list until she was satisfied with everything. "All set to go Twi?" asked a voice from behind her. Twilight turned to see Spike in the doorway. "Yep, all set", she replied, "But before we go can you send that letter on the table to the Princess?" Spike looked at the letter, and grabbed it of the table. "Sure thing Twilight" he said. He took in a huge breath and blew out a flame engulfing the letter. The smoke cloud wisked out the window and went on its way. Twilight smiled, "Thanks Spike", she noogied him with her hoof. "Anytime", he said cheerfully. He turned and headed towards the front door. Twilight look out the window the letter had just gone, I hope you can help me she thought to herself. She then turned and walked out the front door. Unknowing that just outside Ponyville, on the edge of the Everfree forest. A strange distortion had opened about four feet in the air, and out of it, came a strange creature. ********************** Twilight and Spike made their way to Ponyville square, many ponies were already there anxiously awaiting for Rainbow Dash. "Wow" Spike exclaimed, "This is quite the turnout". "Well considering that we may be meeting the very next Wonderbolt". Twilight said, "I'm not surprised that a lot of ponies are here". "Look!" Spike exclaimed, "There's Applejack and Rarity". Twilight looked to where Spike was pointing, she saw AJ and Rarity standing together. She also noticed that Spike was standing a little straighter. Oh Spike, he's so lovestruck for Rarity, she chuckled to herself. Applejack turned to noticed Twilight and Spike, she waved to them, "Howdy you two!!" "Hey girls", Twilight replied. Rarity turned to them, she was wearing a Wonderbolt themed outfit. A blue summer dress with yellow lightning bolts, That's very modest even for her, Twilight thought to herself. "Why Twilight darling", Rarity said, "We were wondering when you would show up". She winked at Spike, he blushed "Hi Rarity", was all Spike got out. Twilight only smiled. She looked around, someone was missing. "Has anyone seen Fluttershy?", she asked. Applejack shook her head, "She tol me she ain't comin", she said, "she foun a fox that was hurtin bad". "Oh that's a shame", Twilight replied, "Dash really wanted us all to be here." "Don't fret non Twi, ah heard RD is gonna be here soon", Applejack said, "and knowing her she is prolly gonna make a big-" she was cut of by the sound of flying overhead. Everypony looked up to see a Pegasus formation, and leading it was none other than Rainbow Dash. At that moment, there was a fanfare of music and everypony turned to see Pinkie Pie shooting Confetti into the sky, the crowd cheered. **********Moments before*********** The burning sensation came hard at Russ, he clenched hard felt as every single atom in is body was breaking apart, he waited for the end, it only got worse and worse, until he could hold it in no more "AAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!", he cried as the pain seered through his body until it became to much and he passed out. Not to far away three young fillies heard the cry, they all stopped to see where it came from. "What was that!", Sweetiebell exclaimed,"it sounded like somepony was in trouble". Applebloom scanned around the area, "It sounded like it came from thata way", she said pointing to Everfree Forest Scootaloo stopped, she wanted to get back to Ponyville to see Rainbow Dash's return home, but she heard the cry. As much as she wanted to she RD, she knew it was the right thing to do. "Okay", she sighed, "But let's do this fast". Applebloom was excited, "We could get life-saving cutie marks from this!", she said, "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS AWAY!!". All three fillies hoof bumped, then headed to the Everfree Forest, not knowing they were being followed. ************************** Everypony surrounded Rainbow Dash as she landed, she stood proud with a smile on her face, and sporting her new Wonderbolts uniform. Twilight and the others pushed through the crowd to get to her. "Rainbow Dash over here!!", Twilight shouted. Rainbow looked over to see her friends. She jumped into the air and landed next to them. She was so excited to see them, she then tackled them. "Ooohhhhhh, I miss you guys so much!", she said. The group embraced, although Rarity stuggled to get free. "Oh my brand new dress", she flustered, she broke the group hug, " Your getting it all dirty!". The others simply laughed. "Oh Rainbow Dash, a Wonderbolt you are", Pinkie began to sing, everyone laughed more. "C'mon y'all" AJ said, "Let's get something to eat" everyone agreed. They began to make their way through the crowd, Rainbow Dash giving high five and other various forms of recognition to her new fans. They got to the local cafe that Twilight had made reservations for, The Frolicing Filly, all 5 mares sat down and began to order. Rainbow Dash began to tell them all about her training and some of the highlights. "Oh there was this one time" , she said, "One of our instructors, bet us all to try and beat his record at the confidence course. So of course I-", She was cut of by the surprisingly loud entrance of a pink haired mare, looking very distressed "Hey Fluttershy", Twilight said, noticing her friends look, " What going on, I thought you had to take care of a fox?" Fluttershy gasped a few breathes then was able to cough out "Sweetie Bell *gasp* Apple Bloom *gasp* Scootaloo *gasp* big trouble *gasp* near my house" , not more than a second after she finished, Applejack and Rarity where out the door soon followed by the others, with Fluttershy trailing behind.
Discoveries Discoveries Chapter 3 Russ breathed in and out slowly, he smelled the scent of pine on the wind, heard the chirping of birds, felt the grass on his face. Am I alive?, he thought to himself. He slowly opened his eyes to see the world around him. He saw trees, grass, hills, flowers, and the sight of mountains in the distance. "I'm alive?" he said aloud, he moved his head to view the rest of his surroundings and turned on his back. "I...I'm alive!" Russ began to say excitedly, but then he stopped realizing this revelation, he became angry. "Why am I alive", he said with contempt in his voice, "I should be dead, why am I not dead!? ALL I WANTED TO DO WAS DIE!!!!". Tears streamed down his face, the one thing he wanted, and the universe took it away. After all that had happened, the war with Legion, his unbearable losses, and he still had to endure the pain. "THIS ISN'T FAIR", he cried in anguish, "WHYYYYYYYYYYYYY?!!!!!". Russ pounded on the the ground, until he realized what he was pounding the ground with. He looked down to see that he no longer had hands, or skin for that matter, but four legs with hooves, and bright red fur. He gaped in disbelief at this discovery, he was a pony, "W-W-What the hell is going on?" ************************* The Cutie Mark Crusaders ran through the Everfree Forest trying to escape the pack of timber wolves close behind them. They ducked and weaved through the foliage trying to escape their pursuers. They came across a creek and jumped down the embankment. Scootaloo noticed a small hole under a tree behind some roots, just big enough for them to hide in. She pointed, "Quick! In there", Sweetie Bell and Apple Bloom turned and followed Scoots. They all crammed in their hiding spot and tried to catch their breathes. They listened they could hear the timber wolves approach, the hunters jumped into the creek and began to search for the three fillies. They paced around for awhile then growled when they found nothing, they took off following the creek. Apple Bloom sighed, " Wheww, Ah thought they'd find us", they all chuckled nervously, but then the entrance of their hiding place was filled with the face of a timber wolf. "AAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!", they screamed as the timber wolf clawed to reach them, but the roots kept it just beyond reach. The trio pushed themselves as far back into the hole as possible as more timber wolves converged on the location. ******************************* Russ had stumbled his way to a nearby pond, he stuck his face in the water and drank heavily, afterwards he noted how pure the water was. As soon as he a satisfied his thirst he began to examine his new physical appearance. His eyes where still the same color, he a square like snout, the hair on this head was a very brilliant white, and so was his tail. He looked at his new legs, he could see his hooves they where a tan color. Russ sat on his rump and stared at the water, looking at himself. How had this happened? How had he been saved and changed into a pony, he tried to understand only to come to the conclusion that he was given a second chance, and he was supposed to to something here. "But where am I anyway", Russ said aloud, he began to piece together what he knew, he could feel that the world and the environment around him seemed healthier, almost untouched by any form of pollution, and there was something magical in the air. He tested the composition of the water given his enhanced senses, no impurities what so ever. No foreign chemicals, no synthetic compounds, it was pure water. This and he was a pony, Russ had his answer but he didn't want to believe it. "Am I in EQUESTRIA?!!", he said in disbelief. His thoughts where cut short by the sound of screams coming from the nearby forest. He quickly stood up, trying to get used to his new anatomy, but he soon adjusted to what he thought was an acceptable level. "Sometimes you gotta run before you can walk", he said, and with that he took of in the direction of the cries of distress. ******************************** Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the forest six mares were also headed to the same place. "HURRY!!", AJ screamed. Out of all them, Rarity and Applejack were running the fastest. They heard the screams in the distance, along with the howls of timber wolves. We may not make it, Twilight thought, but she pushed it aside and only pushed faster. ******************************* "AAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEE", the three fillies screamed in terror as the timber wolves began to dig and tear away their hiding place. One of the predators had ripped away the last of the roots and was about to reach them, but was blasted in the face by Sweetie Bell's magic. "RUN!!", she cried, and the trio made a break for it, only to have halted. They where surrounded by their hunters, they circled them and began to close in. The fillies huddled together and covered their eyes and began to cry. This is it, Scootaloo thought, we're gonna die. One of the timber wolves made a lunge at the three, only to be knocked of course and taken down. The fillies looked up and saw a earth pony with dark red fur and a white mane and tall. He had tackled the timber wolf, pinning on its belly, he placed one hoof on the back of its neck, and with the other, he reached under its jaw and twisted hard, breaking its neck. He looked up, he had a burning in his eyes. He spoke his voice stern, "Leave them alone you vile creatures", he stared the pack down, "your fight is with me now", he stamped his fore hooves on the ground and let out a battle cry. The wolves took a step back and growled in return. The earth pony turned to the frightened fillies, "Go!", he said, "run! I'll hold them off", they looked at him, not know what to to. When he saw they were not leaving, he repeated with more earnest, "GOO!", and with that, the trio ran passed him down the creek, not looking back ******************************* After the trio where out of sight, Russ turned to face his foe. Okay, five of them one of me, he thought. "This will be easy", he finished aloud, and he raised his hoof to blast them all. But after a few seconds, Russ felt no build of power, his hoof did not glow with energy. Confused, he tried again, but no energy came from him, he then realized. "My..powers..are GONE?!!!", he stammered, just then, the packed rushed him. Russ jumped above them, dodging their attack. When he landed, one wolf turned and lunged. Russ sidestepped, swung up a leg under its stomach, grabbed it and swung into another. Both creatures fell apart into a pile of sticks. Russ had his backed turned to the other wolves, and he soon felt a strong grasp on his shoulder, and felt a timber wolf sink his teeth into him. "AAAAAARRRRRRRGGGHHHHHH", Russ cried in pain, he stood on his hind legs and smashed the wold into a large rock, it crumbled away. Russ grabbed his shoulder and fell to his front knees, he looked in the flowing water and saw the pool of red forming. His eyes shot open when realized, "That's my blood", he said in horror, "My. Blood". His powers were gone, his protective aura was gone, but he could feel his accelerated healing working, barely. The remaining wolves closed in slowly, Russ slowly stood to his hooves. Maybe I should just give in, he thought, after all, I wanted to die. But then something in him stirred, he felt a flame ignite within him. His powers weren't gone, just recharging, Russ smirked and said, "I'm not gonna die just yet". He then reared up gathering up what power he could, and brought his hooves down. On impact, there was a small flash and a shock wave that sent the timber wolves flying. The explosion flew outward throwing water, mud, dirt, and stick from it. After everything had settled, Russ breathed heavily, he fell to the ground, his head pounding and ears ringing. He looked up to the canopy, the sun shone through it in rays, he smiled. He then heard voices approaching, they were muffled, but Russ knew they were getting closer. The last thing he saw before he succumb to the darkness, were six figures that resembled something he had seen before. Author's Note if you want to know what russ looks like its my avatar
Waking up Waking up Chapter 4 Everypony else had gone home for the night, but Dash and Twilight had stayed behind at Ponyville Hospital to watch over their new friend. Twilight recalled the events that had taken place, they found Sweetie Bell, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo unharmed, they then said that their was a pony who had helped them escape and was facing the timber wolves alone. Twilight, Dash, Pinkie, and Fluttershy ran to help this pony while Rarity and Applejack took the fillies to safety. Before they got to where the trio said he was, there was some kind of explosion, they found the pony in question at where it had come from. He was unconscious and badly bleeding, so Twilight quickly healed him and then the four brought him to the hospital E.R.. AJ and Rarity came by with the Crusaders to see how he was doing. After some questions for the fillies, and some discussion, they found he had saved the trio. But they had no idea who he was or where he came from, and the strangest thing of all, he didn't have a cutie mark. Twilight and Dash had stayed up most of the night talking about their heroic friend for many hours, until they fell asleep. ***************************** It was early morning when Rainbow Dash woke up to the sound of moaning and mumbling, she look to see that it was their patient. She walked over to him, she could here him saying something. "Storm...Storm...", he mumbled, "Uhhhh...Storm...no...n-no". He then began to toss and turn, he got louder, "No, Storm, no...stop, please,,,let her go". He suddenly began to trash around, and said even louder, " No no no, leave her alone, leave her alone, no Storm no!". Rainbow then tried to hold him still, he struggled against her. "Hey hey hey", she said, "It's okay, your safe no one is gonna hurt you". He began to fight harder, his voice getting louder still. It was at this Twilight woke up, and she ran over to the bed to help Dash. "What happened!", she screamed, trying to hold the colt down. Dash struggled to hold him, " I don't know", she replied, "He just started talking, and then this!", both mares were putting all their strength into trying to contain the trashing pony. Twilight then used a calming spell on him, the purple aura surrounded him then seeped into his body. He slowly then relaxed, breathing heavily, then he started crying, softly. Twilight reached over and began to stroke his white mane. "Shhhhhh", she hushed, "your gonna be okay, I'm here with you". She looked over at Dash, "He must have been having a nightmare". she said. "But who is Storm?' Dash asked, "He kept saying that, and he said her, some mare in his life maybe?" Twilight shrugged "Maybe, but we won't find out till he wakes up", she look back to him, "I feel so bad for him, what could he have possibly have gone through?" He continued to cry as she stroked his mane. Then he stopped and his eyes began to flutter open, "Dash, go get a nurse quick!" she said to her friend. Dash nodded and ran out of the room. Twilight look anxiously at the pony on the bed, she was finally going to figure out who this colt was. Russ remembered passing out, after that only flashes of memory. Things that were, some of the things he saw pained him. He tried to force them out, but was a prisoner in own mind. He tried to shout, but voice came. He struggled against the darkness that held him, and he began to wake up. He began to hear was was going on around him, light filled into his eyes, and he saw someone standing over him. He determined female, her presence was familiar to him, but he could not place it. he then heard her voice flow into his ears. "Don't worry", she said, "your okay, a nurse is coming". Nurse? He must be in a hospital. Russ tried to focus in on the voice, to pull himself out. He fought against the darkness, until he was able to open his eyes and let the light pool in. He felt his spirit fill he body, he was awake and the first thing he saw, was a cyan colored pony, with a rainbow mane standing in the door way. No...way,he thought to himself. He then looked over to so see a purple unicorn standing over him smiling warmly. "Good to see you awake" she said, "you've been out for awhile, how are you feeling?" Russ stared for a second, then replied, "I'm feeling fine, how did I get here?" Rainbow, had stepped aside as the nurse came in, when the colt asked his question, she quickly answered, "We carried you here, you were in really bad shape". she looked at him curiously. The nurse began to inspect him. "Well you seem to be in one piece", she deducted, " A few more days and you'll be out of here", she turned to Twilight, "He looking good, call me if you need anything" , she said. Twilight nodded. "We will, thank you so much", she said. The nurse nodded and walked out, as soon as she closed the door, Twilight turned back to the earth pony. "I guess we should introduce ourselves", she said, "I'm Twilight Sparkle". "And I'm Rainbow Dash!", Dash quickly added, "the fastest flier in all of Equestria, and newest Wonderbolt!" she did a backflip Russ couldn't believe it, this was all real, he didn't know what to think. He then realized that what Dash had said, so that meant that he was here at a point in time that was behind where the show was on Earth. He had knowledge of this world possible future. He could change things, but then he realized what had happened the last time he messed with destiny, and that didn't end well. "So what's your name, and where are you from?", the purple mare asked him, Russ' mind began racing he had to come up with some lie for now, they wouldn't believe him if he told them the truth. He tried to scan their minds for information, but he couldn't get much, his telepathy was weak. So he tried using what knowledge he had from the show and fandom. Then he had it. "My name is Rusty Charger", he said, "but call me Russ". Twilight smiled warmly, "Well it's very nice to meet you Russ" "But where are you from?" Rainbow asked, she squinted her eyes at him. "I'm from Detrot", he answered. He hoped that it existed. Twilight was shocked, "Wow, that's all the way across Equestria", Russ breathed a mental sigh of relief, "What brings you to Ponyville?", she asked him. Russ thought for a second, then said, "Trying to get a new start, I've made some mistakes and I need a clean slate", he then looked down at his hooves, "You saved my life", he looked up at the two mares, "Thank you" Twilight looked at him with a straight face, "We should thank you as well", she said, "You saved two of our friends sister's and one of their friends", she smiled, "That was very brave of you". Rainbow Dash then walked over, "Yeah man, your a hero" , she said and hoofed his shoulder. He frowned and looked away. "I'm no hero", Russ said, a bitterness in his voice, "I don't deserve it, I was just in the right place at the right time, for once". Dash frowned and put her hoof on his shoulder, "I don't care if you think you don't deserve it but we do", she said "Yeah", Twilight said, "Your a hero to us, and to the fillies you saved". Russ looked up at her, she could see pain in his eyes, and there was something that he was hiding. Twilight then decided to ask the big question, and Russ sensed it. "So...", she began, "how is that you don't have a cutie mark". Russ shifted uncomfortably, Shit, fan-fucking-tastic, he thought, what am I going to tell them. He mind ran a million miles an hour, trying to figure out something. Before he could even open his mouth, the door burst open in a shower of confetti and party streamers, and standing in the middle of the doorway with the biggest smile Russ had ever seen was- "Pinkie Pie!!", Twilight and Dash exclaimed. "Oh boy", Russ said quietly to himself, "I'm doomed"
