I Curse My Stars In Bitter Grief And Woeby PULL MY DEVIL TRIGGERChaptersPrologue: An Unusual AwakeningMission 1: An Unusual MeetingMission 2: Seek The StarsPrologue: An Unusual Awakening“He who binds to himself a joy Does the winged life destroy; But he who kisses the joy as it flies Lives in eternity's sun rise.” Regret was a feeling he had known for the past month, twinged with hints of despair. Reeling from what he’d done as a whole being for the sake of power was truly soul-crushing. Alas, he’d done what he could. V held no regrets for what he’d done to survive. Desperation fueled his every move in his last few hours of life, clinging to Nero desperately as he struggled every step of the way towards the bottom of the tree that started all of the mess. The mess that he had created. Or rather, his other half. He held no regrets for surviving, for holding his cane above the gaping wound of Urizen, hearing his twin’s rapid footsteps as he no doubt realised what he was about to do, plunging it deep within- And then nothing. At least, for a little while. It was a surprise. He’d thought he’d just be… Whole again. Himself. One being, no longer split in a desperate attempt to survive his grave injuries. A small part of him would have rather let himself die, in hindsight, if only to undo the damage he had caused in reaction to the Qliphoth appearing. “Hey, paper boy, wakey wakey.” As short as it was, he’d had a good life, just being his human self. Even if his sleep was hardly comforting. His thoughts, now that he could think on his actions throughout his life, were nothing short of hostile, pointing out every little mistake he’d made, from the mundane to the destructive. They’d even found a way to make him feel bad for wanting chocolate more than Dante, back when they were a happy family together. “Seriously, Shakespeare, the sun’s shining, now’s not the time for a nap!” He supposed he was paying for all his mistakes now, sitting in the darkness of what he assumed was oblivion. He didn’t even get the right to go to hell yet. He shouldn’t have existed at all, yet- ZAP! “Gah!” An electrifying feeling shot through him all at once. That made him pause for a moment. He shouldn’t even have a body, yet… He felt his eyelids open instinctively as the shock wore off, warmth hitting him as his mind came to. His body still felt weak. Very weak. He could barely even turn his head, trying to find the cause of the shock. One certainly would think his new lease on life was kinder to his health... “Oh, finally! Geez, I know things were rough for ya, but daylight’s burning, and I got no clue where we are!” A familiar voice squawked, nudging his arm with his beak. “Now, you gonna stand up or do I need to give the Griffon special?” He chuckled on instinct. This was a nice reminder of why he liked him, even though he was nothing more than a nightmare. Rocky start or not, he still had come to rely on him. Still… Why were they here? He should be... “Ah… I’m afraid I’m a little strained to move right now. I’m not in any shape to do much at the moment.” Lamenting was all he could do, his throat dry from thirst as he weakly turned his head towards the familiar, a small smile on his face. “Though I’m glad to see a familiar face… Wherever we are.” Griffon ruffled his feathers a bit in reaction, sputtering as he looked away. “Well, you better get back into shape real quick, uh… If you’re not dying anyway.” He tried to keep light-hearted, but the concern remained, turning back to him. Even now, he cared. He looked back up to the sky, squinting a little as the sun bore down on him. He felt weak, but the draining feeling he had grown accustomed to over that month and a half separated wasn’t there. If anything, things felt… Normal. A hazy memory floated up in the back of his mind, the image of himself lying in bed sick from the flu. Being half demon, he didn’t think he could get sick, but he supposed in hindsight it was because of his age. He felt bedridden, but it was hardly dangerous for him. He wasn’t… Well, dying. “No… I’m just tired. Being on the brink of falling apart would cause that.” He sighed, closing his eyes momentarily, feeling the wind’s gentle breeze hit his prone body. For the first time in what felt like years, he could relax momentarily. “Are we in danger of being hunted?” He heard a light thump as Griffon lowered himself to the ground beside him, sighing in relief. “Phew. I wouldn’t say danger, but, uh… Well, it’s only the two of us. The big bad kitty and the big guy’s not here. We’re in some kinda garden. Real fancy, too. Like some kinda queen’s living here or somethin’.’” He paused for a brief moment, pondering. “Though I know we aren’t alone here. This place is… Well, it’s got horses in it, at least.” He almost didn’t register that last part. “Pardon me?” He craned his neck down once again to his familiar, brow quirked in confusion. “Did you say horses?” Griffon stood again, nodding. “Yeah, I know, sounds fucking stupid, but I’m telling ya the truth. I managed to peek in one of the windows and I saw a horse pushing a cart filled with food somewhere. Wherever we are, it ain’t normal.” He hummed to himself, looking to the nearby hedge. From what he could gather, they were somewhere secluded, hidden, but still reachable. He could see why he wanted him awake now. Still visibly weak, his body strained as he tried to sit himself up, only for Griffon to quickly jump up and push him back down again. “Oh, no you don’t, V. You’re in no shape to move right now, and for once you’re gonna sit your ass down for a few minutes to rest. I’ll have another look. Got it, Paperweight?” His concern was showing again. His eyes glowed intensely as he stared him down, unmoving. Daring him to move. “... I’ll stay put, then.” He smiled a smidge, reaching up to pat him with a gloved hand. “But the moment there’s someone coming, you’ll help me move. I’m in no condition to fight right now, and not even bravado could mask that.” Happy enough with his response, Griffon gently shoved his hand away from him, hopping off his chest as he spread his wings. “Yeah, yeah, sure. What I get for showing care for my master, sheesh.” He turned one last time to him, eyes pointed. “... Glad to have you here still, V. Even if it’s… Weird right now.” He shook his head. “Indeed. I’m, glad to have you around still. Misery loves company.” Griffon snorted, turning back around. “Yeah, well, I’m a bundle of sunshine compared to your goth ass.” With that comment, he took flight, keeping low as he turned around the corner, disappearing behind the bush, leaving V once again to his thoughts. “... And what is wrong with my lifestyle, exactly?” He’d kept quiet since Griffon had left. It’d been… A while. That was getting a tad concerning. Griffon couldn’t go far without him, contract or not, so he couldn’t be too far away from him. Maybe he could… He tried once again to sit up, with considerably less difficulty, as he grunted from the effort. It’d be difficult walking, but he could at least stand again. He could perhaps take a look around. Maybe he’d feel Griffon’s presence. With a little effort, he lifted himself up to his own two feet, grimacing a little as a dizzy feeling of vertigo hit him. Even when not dying, he still felt weak. He frowned to himself at the thought. All the time seeking power, and for what… He shook his head. Enough with the dwelling. Griffon was what was important at the moment. Reaching for a nearby tree for balance, he lifted one foot, stepping forwards awkwardly as he felt his other leg buckle a little. Maybe not walking, then. Still, he had to find Griffon somewhere… He closed his eyes, focusing on what little demonic energy he had left. It was risky, given his condition, but without him he was dead anyway. Using that energy, he called out to Griffon- … … A call back. One filled with panic. “Ah. Damn.” He opened his eyes again. This wasn’t good. He had to call him back, and quickly before he got hurt. His arm lifted up, coming to rest straight beside him, and he called again to Griffon. “Come back.” He waited for a moment… And sighed. No response. He lowered his arm. Not enough- “-AAAH-” A heavy weight landed on top of his head, forcing V back down to the ground again as he lost balance. At least it worked. “AAA- Oh, hey, it worked.” Sounding far too calm for someone just being in danger, Griffon hopped off his head, brushing his hair with the wind as he fell. “C’mon, V, we gotta get moving quick, before those horses come knocking and lock me in some enclosure. They don’t like me very much, heh.” He groaned as he pushed himself up once again, thankful that his strength was returning him slowly. It’d take a few days before he was back to what strength he had, but he could at least limp along if he had something to hold onto. “And, pray tell, how exactly did you get yourself discovered?” He glanced down at Griffon as he grasped that tree again, beginning the difficult walk with the bird following in tow. “Uh, well…” Griffon was trying to be sneaky, he really was, but he wasn’t exactly built for it, now was he? No, he wasn’t. He was built for combat, for standing up to his foes, even as a nightmare, as much of a hindrance as that was for any party involved. So he didn’t find it funny that he was suddenly forced to pose as a dumbass bird in the garden as those horses came walking in, presumably to do some dumbass shit or to clean it up. As they approached, he looked at them, trying his best to keep a dumb look in his eyes, a gasp ringing out from one of them as they looked at him. Imagine his surprise when the left one opened their mouth. “Oh, what a magnificent bird!” What. He masked his surprise as a squawk as the horse that was currently speaking to him looked up at his perching spot, eyes filled with awe. He really shouldn’t have been surprised, considering what he was, but he was a demon, not a… A talking horse! He couldn’t sense any demonic energy coming from either of them! Seriously! “Oh, what plumage! Those feathers! Oh, that beak! Where’d you come from, you pretty little thing?” The horse with enthusiasm was trying to reach him, jumping up in vain as he stared down at her, still trying to keep that dumb look in his eyes and now fighting back the urge to make a biting remark about her enthusiasm. The other one, though, it looked rather unnerved by him. Understandable. He was a big shot in the demon world. Well, his real self was, anyway. That counted, right? “Uh, Sweet Pea, that bird looks a little… Dangerous. I mean, that has to be a hunter, right? Those talons look like they could claw out your eyes…” She shivered at that, backing away. He squawked in response, flexing his feet as a show of said talons, the glint shining in the light. Sweet Pea, as she was named, stupid fucking name, wasn’t bothered at all. She seemed rather happy about it. Weirdo. “Oh, you’re right! You’re a dangerous bird, aren’t you? How’d the Princess find someone like you, huh?” A Princess owned this place. At least he wasn’t going back empty-clawed. The horse tried again to reach him, but this time he backed away into the air, squawking almost mockingly as he stared down at her. “Sweet Pea, be careful! Don’t make it angry!” The other horse kept her distance, yet still stared at her friend with fear. Good, she was the one with the brains of the two. “Oh, relax, Sunrise, he’s just startled. I’m sure the Princess wouldn’t bring a dangerous bird here and let it roam free.” She backed off at least, looking at him with awe all the while. If only she knew. He couldn’t help the slight chortle that came out of his throat, catching the pair’s attention. “... Huh?” “Did it just…” A pang of fear hit him, realising the mistake. Maybe if he played it off? He squawked again, trying his best to make it sound like that laugh. It didn’t work, judging from their narrowing eyes. “Sweet Pea, I don’t like this…” The other horse started backing away again, looking at her friend anxiously. “Maybe we should get the guards? See if this is their bird?” “Hm…” Sweet Pea looked suspiciously at him. “You’re right. Let’s go.” She turned around quickly, hurrying along. He couldn’t let that happen. Not in a million years, nope, nuh uh. Thinking quickly, he took flight again, quickly darting away from the area. The pair didn’t let him go so easy though. “H-Hey, come back here!” “... And then you called me back. Sorry for the head hit, by the way.” He sighed to himself. At least he didn’t reveal he could talk. Still, the guards here could be looking for him, and that was a bad sign. They had to find a way out of there quick before either of them got caught. He didn’t know how that would go, and he didn’t particularly care to find out. Not while his other means of defense were missing. “Did you at least see a way out of here, or am I going to have to hobble around blindly?” He looked to his side to watch for any horse on the lookout, before beginning the limp across the path to the next set of bushes. The gate was nearby, so at least he was nearly out of this particular maze. “Uh, no? Before I could get anywhere the horses stopped me. Though it’ll be a cakewalk compared to Red Grave.” He felt the ink of his tattoo pulse a bit as he chortled to himself. “Maybe I should have brought my garden shears here too. Much easier than the Qliphoth to cleave through, eh?” He smiled to himself. “Heh. Keep sharp, I may need you if we get caught.” He ached for his cane right now. It’d make this at least a little easier for himself instead of stabbing his hands on thorns or splinters. “You know I got your back, kid. Remember, dying is whack.” He shook his head. In a way, he was thankful he had Griffon out of the three. He wouldn’t know what to do if he hadn’t had him to bounce off of. “Just a little further.” “Halt!” … Damnit. Author's Note Woag funny goth boy in horsey world poggies Whipped this up in an hour because I had the urge and the voices won so here have this starter, may continue it may not I don't know but hey it'll be good to flex my writing chops again after a couple years Mission 1: An Unusual Meeting“If the Sun and Moon should ever doubt, they'd immediately go out.” V’s eyes were glued to his book as he sat on the far-too-small cot, hunching slightly as his eyes focused on the verses in front of him. The smile he wore was one of happiness, looking through his old notes was quite a joy, especially now. “Psst, V, any ideas on how to get out of here, exactly?” The ink pulsed slightly on his skin as Griffon spoke in hushed tones, only just masking his slight unease at being in a cramped room. He shook his head at that. “Sadly, no. The guards have been rather… Accommodating, though. I get the feeling that we aren’t in as much danger as once thought.” Still, his eyes glanced to the bars leading outside. Far too small for a pony, never mind him, but tempting to let Griffon blast the bars. Speaking of… “Ugh, V, look, I get that you don’t wanna cause a scene, but you’re not exactly a fighting guy. What if they decide to just, off ya?” The familiar was nervous, and they both knew that. If he died, so did Griffon. “Now’s not exactly the time to speak prose to them.” He just smiled knowingly. “Perhaps not. But I know you’ll come in handy if they do decide to take… Drastic measures.” He snapped the book shut, pocketing it in his coat as he looked to the door. Griffon’s form pulsed against him in begrudging acceptance but said nothing else for the moment. “Only cuz you’re puffing up my ego…” The pair fell into silence, only ruined by the occasional door opening or closing inside the halls of the prison as the guards patrolled or took over for others. The sole guard that passed him shot him a nervous look. Must have been new to the job. Of course, he did nothing in response. Before long though… Clacking rang through the halls shortly after the doors opened once again. It stood out against the other hoof steps of the guards, and they were only getting louder. Someone was coming. “Uh oh.” Griffon did his best to keep still, only trembling lightly. “That sounds like your death date, kid. Hope you’ve got a plan.” V stared at the door in silence, expression unmoving, only slightly tense. There was nothing he could do if they turned out hostile. His book’s weight felt comforting against him at that moment. “... This is the cell?” A warm voice spoke, just shy of his sight. If he knew angels didn’t exist, he’d be inclined to call the voice one. Yet he knew all too well that looks could be deceiving. “Yes, your highness. The creature was found in the gardens, as I’m sure you’ve been told. It came without a fight, so we saw no need to restrain it once it was in the cell.” He swore he recognised that voice, but all the guards he heard sounded the same. Didn’t truly matter though. “Keep quiet, Griffon.” He kept his voice low, still watching the door. “We don’t want to startle our… Judge.” As expected, Griffon said nothing. Yet another reason he was reliable, obedient when push came to shove. “I see. Well done, guards. I’ll see the creature now. Leave me.” A pair of quieter hooves signalled the guards were indeed leaving as she ordered before the owner of said voice finally came into view. And she truly was intimidating. Standing much taller than any other pony he’d seen so far, with both a horn and a pair of wings… An alicorn, if his memory served correctly. “I take it you’re the ruler of this castle?” He kept cordial, keeping his gaze firmly on hers as he spoke. Weakness wouldn’t do for this conversation. She just smiled in response, nodding. “Indeed. I am Princess Celestia, Co-ruler of Equestria. And you are…?” Her gaze, ever gentle, waited for his response. That look reminded him of… He shook his head lightly. Now wasn’t the time for bittersweet memories. “You can call me V.” If she was confused by his name, she didn’t show it as she nodded along, accepting it. “Hello V. If I may ask, what were you doing inside my gardens? There was simply no way for you to get in without at least being spotted by my guards beforehand, seeing as you’re a grounded creature.” Still wearing that patient look… He blinked, taking a second to collect himself again. “Well, dear princess… I don’t quite know. Without getting into specifics, I don’t think I was supposed to end up here. I’m about as clueless as you, as a matter of fact.” Again, she nodded, accepting all of this as one would if she had asked her about his lunch. “I see. In that case, could you explain why not two minutes before, two of my maids were telling my guards about an unusual bird in those same gardens?” She tilted her head, still smiling patiently. Griffon pulsed slightly against him as if his breath had hitched. “I have no clue either. Perhaps it was simply unrelated?” If he had his strength, he’d be standing up by now. A sign of his nerves, perhaps, but thankfully he couldn’t without risk of falling. She just smiled, almost as if she knew he was lying. “Oh really? Alright then. If you wouldn’t mind me asking then… Why were those patterns moving just now?” She kept that same damn stare up, reminding him far too much of his mother. He felt like a child with the cookie jar at the moment. “... Hm? Perhaps it was a trick of the light? They’re simply tattoos.” Two could play the patience game, though. The years of his life alone had taught him that. “Hm.” She didn’t show any signs of cracking, instead taking a moment to observe him. “If you’re going to keep at the lies, V, then I’m afraid I can’t help you through this. If you want to return home, then I need to know I can trust you.” There were the negotiations at least. Something he would predict and work around. “And how, pray tell, would you be able to help me if neither of us have any clue how I came to be here?” A hand found its way running through his hair, white locks brushing out of his vision as he kept his calm smile up. “I mean no offence princess, but I have no clue of your capabilities.” She nodded at that, accepting the point. A small part of him, the childish part, felt vindicated at his wits. “That is a fair point. But let me ask you this. What do you exactly plan to do? I can’t let you go running around, and disrupt my little ponies, now can I?” For a brief moment, her gaze hardened. “I don’t want this to end sourly, V. Far too many events have ended like that for my liking.” And like that, he was reminded of the power at play here. This was a ruler of a kingdom, and he was an outsider. She had all the power in the world to seal him away, to kill him, or many untold things. He didn’t like it, but she was right. He didn’t exactly have a plan this time. Not like when Urizen started seeking power. This time, he was in unknown territory. “... I see. So that is how it is.” Still keeping his easygoing smile, he lifted an arm to his side. “Here, now.” Another pulse against his skin as Griffon sighed. “If you’re sure, kid.” With only a slight rippling noise, His familiar appeared on his arm, perched and staring at the Princess. “So this rainbow’s the head of the kingdom, huh? Seems rather cliché, don’t ya think, V?” He could hear the grin in his voice. “Heh, perhaps. Perhaps this is indeed a fairy tale.” He turned towards him for a moment. “I don’t suppose you’ll play the part of the hero’s partner, will you?” Griffon cackled at that. “I see now.” The Princess’s voice demanded his attention once again, which he obliged without a word. “This is the bird I heard about… And that energy…” Her eyes narrowed a little in thought. “I don’t suppose you don’t know what he is, do you?” He glanced at Griffon again, humming. Best to play dumb until she revealed her hand a bit. “I don’t know what you mean. He’s just my familiar.” Another chuckle from Griffon, preening at his feathers a bit. “Loyal, if a little loudmouthed.” “Hey, someone’s gotta talk for the two of us, since you’re so quiet and broody.” V huffed a little at that, smiling still. “V…” Celestia’s voice cut through like a knife. “I’m afraid if you keep withholding information from me, I can’t treat you with the trust you desire. You’re going to have to open up a little more if you want out of this cell.” Griffon sighed in exasperation, sagging a little bit. “Sheesh, it’s never easy in the life of the two amigos, is it?” She shot Griffon a stern look as if scolding him, which made him pause. “Ah, eh, uh… Right.” “... What do you suspect then, dear Princess?” He couldn’t risk agitating the ruler. “If I can dissuade your fears, it’ll be the best for the both of us.” It had been a long forty-five minutes talking with the Princess, explaining what he could without divulging too much about his origin. As far as she knew, he was a human who had been practising a spell with the assistance of his familiar Griffon when he’d been transported there. Of course, he couldn’t hide the fact that he was using a demon as a familiar, nor the fact that he had two more potentially out in the world somewhere. Idly, he wondered how they were faring without him. They were still bound to him so they wouldn’t fade, but their strength was certainly sapped being so far away from him. As such, Celestia had permitted him to come along with her, but he wasn’t to move out of her sight. She may have accepted his words, but she didn’t fully trust him as of yet, seeing as, in her eyes, he had no qualms about aligning with demons of evil. Needless to say, Griffon was sour over the apparent disrespect and was busy sulking to himself as he flew above the pair of them. He found it rather amusing, seeing the shoe on the other foot. “And you stop grinning at me, paper boy! I’m not messing around!” Griffon darted at him, just missing him as V turned his head slightly. “What was once proved, was once only imagined.” He turned to Celestia, mildly thankful she was keeping close. One wrong step and he would be on the floor. “Ignore his temper tantrum. In time, he’ll… Come around.” “Will you stop talkin’ poetry?! I’m serious here!” Another dash, and yet another miss, and a yelp as a pony watched the bird dart across the hall, before scampering away. Celestia chuckled, having slipped back into a lighter tone during their walk. “It’s no bother, truly. If he’s bound to you, he’ll behave. I know contracts are important to a demon.” Her gaze fell to the bird as he flew around to face them again, still glowering at V. “Besides… I believe that giving others the chance for friendship is important, no matter the creature.” V was thankful for that. Though he did find it rather… Naive, he wasn’t about to disrespect her while he was on a short leash. “Sound advice.” The pair fell into silence, V sidestepping Griffon’s lazy attempts to knock him down as they did, as they headed towards their destination, only occasionally getting a strange look from a member of staff as they travelled the long halls. Before long, though, he found himself curious. “If you don’t mind me asking… What exactly is your plan?” She glanced down at him, a gentle smile still on her face. Again… He blinked the memories away. “I plan on writing to someone near and dear to me, first. She’ll be rather… Excited, shall we say. Besides, it’ll be a good learning opportunity for her studies.” Her horn lit up with a golden glow as the door in front of them swung open on its own, stepping inside quickly. “Come. I know you’re feeling weak at the moment, take a seat.” Following her inside to some kind of meeting room, he obliged his aching legs, reaching for the first seat he could get to as he sighed, Griffon landing beside him quietly, having calmed down a little bit. From the dishevelled feathers though, he was still rather angry. “Studies, hm? Is she a scholar, then?” He rested his elbows on the (just a little too low) table, resting his head on his clasped hands. “Or is she some sort of royal figure like yourself?” Celestia took a moment, taking a seat across from him as she nodded. “Indeed. She’s my student, living in another town for the time being on my request, and her wishes.” Her smile felt… Forlorn, talking about her, yet happy all the same. “Having just spoken to you, I believe she would be more suited to assisting you for the time being than I would. Being the ruler of a kingdom, with a sister or not, is still incredibly busy.” Griffon, still agitated, grumbled to himself. “Great, another bookworm. As if we need more poetry.” A quick clap to the back of the head followed suit. “Wuh- Ow, what the hell was that for?!” He just smiled at him, knowing yet silent. “We don’t want to disrespect our host now, do we?” He turned back to the Princess, humming. “That is, if she will be hosting.” She nodded, albeit with some hesitance. “If you manage to get along with her during her visit, then you shall accompany her back home. Though it’s not really you who is of concern to me…” Her eyes stared at the demon in the room with the pair, who squawked in annoyance. “Great, gang up on the poor bird, sure, not like I’m innocent in all this anyway.” He turned away, huffing again. “Not like I’m that bad anyway…” V nodded, focusing his gaze once again. That reminded him. “Princess, if I may ask… Keep an eye out for my other familiars, as I said. I’m sure you’ll know them if you see them.” Civility was key, and it paid off in spades. “Of course. Familiars or not, it is still a matter of security. It will be up to you to control them should they turn hostile, understand?” Again her gaze hardened, not taking anything less than an affirmation, which he was more than happy to oblige. “Indeed. That was my plan.” With another smile, he clapped his hands together. “If that is all… I believe I should get some rest, and maybe a meal. That spell wore me down a lot.” She nodded, standing back up with a thoughtful look. “Perhaps they’ve got my cake ready yet…” Far off from the cities of Equestria, buried in the trees and hidden away from sight, a lumbering figure laid, mortally wounded. “Ah…” Its voice warbled in agony as it shifted, trying in vain to stand up once again. Alas, its energy was drained, still recovering from the final battle it was in. Indeed, he had survived, although barely. He needed to find a way to heal, and quickly before the wounds became too much to bear. “Blood…” Anything would do at this point. Human blood was the prime, but something a simple animal would do to stave off death. “I need… More, power…” He would never fail again. He would never be weak again. He was power, absolute. He would rise to the top once more, no matter what it took to get there. All that mattered was strength. Mission 2: Seek The Stars“If a thing loves, it is infinite.” It had been… A day or so? He couldn’t quite keep track of the time through the sun like his old reality as he had found out upon seeing the light level suddenly change. He had questions for the Princess when she returned after leaving him for a few minutes. “Oh, you don’t know? Rather peculiar.” She had pursed her lips in thought as soon as his question was processed, humming. “It’s my… Well, special talent is the best way to describe it. It says so right there.” Her wing had lifted to give him a good look at the image on her flank. A sun sat there, truthfully telling him little to nothing about it but regardless interested him in its importance. “I control the sun, and my sister controls the moon. Speaking of, it’s about time she should be coming to get caught up on affairs…” She turned towards the door again, looking to him for a moment. “That includes you, of course. Come.” And that had led him to meet the other half of the ruling monarchy, Princess Luna, which had gone about as different from Celestia as one would expect without it turning into a fight. “Hello, dear sister. Sleep well?” Celestia had welcomed her with a cup of tea, offering it to her with her magic as she, rather unsuited for the image of a royal, grumped and grabbed the cup, drinking it in one go before setting it down. “About as well as one would expect, thine sister.” She seemed exhausted, almost… Guilty, looking even smaller than she already was compared to her sister, before taking a breath and looking back up. Right at him. The following silence would qualify as deafening if he wasn’t used to it. “Sister… One does not wish to come off as rude, but what is thine creature sitting beside you?” Her eyes trailed his tattoo, eyes narrowing slightly. “And thy energy… It is not of thine light nor our dark.” Celestia let out a small sigh, standing up with a gentle smile. “He is of no danger as of now, Luna. This is V, our guest, following some… Interesting developments.” She turned back to him, nodding. “V, introduce yourself.” With a polite nod, he stepped forward, offering a hand for her to shake on instinct. “Greetings, dear princess. Forgive my disruption, but your sister here has been rather understanding of my circumstances. I hope we’ll understand each other.” He smiled. Time to flex his poetry. “Some are born to sweet delight, some are born to endless night. Which one do you preside?” The princess blinked, taking a second, before smiling a small bit, though not a happy one. Immediately he could tell he set something off within her, but it was too late to rescind the quote. “Ah... Quite powerful words.” She was polite about it at least. “One is… Charmed, truly. Was that from a work of literature?” Offering an out, it seemed. One that he took with haste. “Indeed. William Blake, though I doubt you know the name.” He reached into his coat, showing off his prized possession with a smile. “I do apologize if I upset you, but I don’t get the opportunity to speak prose casually often.” Griffon snorted, deciding now was the time to materialise on his shoulder, much to his still-weak body’s annoyance. “More like ya don’t stop quoting that book. Didn’t you ever learn it’s bad to lie?” Another snicker, before he yelped as V reached up to gently cuff him on the head. “Quiet.” Luna fell silent again, eyes widening at the sight of Griffon, before narrowing them again. “Thou… Thou has a demon.” Her horn started to spark before Celestia quickly put it to rest by placing a hoof on her shoulder. “S-Sister, that’s-” She just smiled, shaking her head. “I know, Luna. I don’t trust him either, but I do trust V. At least, more than him. He’s given us his word that he won’t hurt anypony. Won’t you, Griffon?” Much like her sister, her eyes hardened at the bird, daring him to say otherwise. Of course, Griffon didn’t voice any complaint. “Yeah, sure. Believe it or not, not every demon’s a soul suckin’ monster. Only most of them.” He shook his feathers a bit. “Besides, V’s my charge, I ain’t gonna abandon him.” “Hm.” V just smiled, staring at the princesses knowingly. “Once again, forgive his brashness. He’s got… Quite a mouth on him.” “And that’s why you love me.” Another snicker met with V closing his beak forcefully. “Gah-Mmph!” Giggles came from the pair, Celestia much louder than Luna, who was more subdued, before they composed themselves once again. “Right, now that introductions are out of the way…” She turned to Luna, smiling. “I won’t keep you from your duties, dear sister. Please don’t hesitate to wake me if you need help.” With nothing more than a nod, Luna turned away from the pair, presumably off to do her duties as asked. As soon as she left though… Celestia turned to her, eyes downcast. “V… I’m afraid you’ll have to watch your words around her for the time being.” She closed her eyes for a moment in thought, before looking at him again. “Up until recently, she was… Cast out. I was forced to banish her to the moon for… Attempting to bring an endless night.” Ah. That made the look make sense. “My apologies.” He decided to pocket the book for the time being. He could read it before bed. “I don’t wish to strain any goodwill I have with you.” Griffon, deciding enough was enough, retreated into his tattoo form for the moment, leaving only the pair there. “Please, don’t think I hold any animosity for a mistake. You simply didn’t know.” She smiled gently, assuringly. “I simply wanted to make sure you didn’t make the mistake again.” He nodded, accepting that. “Then by all means… Don’t let me keep you awake.” He made to step aside, before a hoof was raised. “Before I do…” They stood in silence for a few seconds, before humming. “Maybe she’s running late?” Just as she was about to accept whatever happened, a flash appeared in front of her, eliciting a smile. “Ah, there we are.” Without another word, she unfurled a scroll and began to read. V couldn’t deny his interest as he stepped up beside her Celestia letting him as he began to read in turn. It was… Well, it was a report, definitely, a sort of mini academic note one would send to their tutor to let them know how their studies were progressing, but the subject matter was rather peculiar. “... Friendship report?” He turned to face the Princess, brow cocking. “That seems like a peculiar subject matter.” Not that he could say anything else wasn’t strange about himself, of course. At least he learned the name of said student, Twilight Sparkle. He made a point to note that down in his head. “It’s important for my student to learn the magic of friendship.” With that rather vague response, she closed the scroll, keeping it in her magic for the moment. “Perhaps you could take up the study, Griffon?” All that answered her was a chortle. “Well, I won’t question your student’s choice in subject matter, then.” He ran a hand through his hair idly as he turned to the door. “I’ll be taking my leave for the night.” “Good night, V.” Celestia began humming a tune as she began her walk. “I shall see you with Twilight tomorrow morning.” Tomorrow was going to be an interesting day. Fire. Dark clouds. Horrid noises coming from the distance, and only getting closer. Vergil was scared. He didn’t know where to go, what to do, where Mom was, anything. He just wanted to go home. Yet, he couldn’t. He was too scared to move from the spring rider, practically trembling. Where was Mom? Something landed behind him, growling menacingly. He had to run. He had to. His legs took off in a random direction, barely thinking until he wound up in the cemetery nearby. His head was filled with nothing but adrenaline-filled instinct.All he could think of was running, but he couldn’t any more. He’d cornered himself accidentally, and this wasn’t going to end well for him. “I don’t wanna die…” His voice was quivering with terror, skin pale as bone. “Please…” His eyes darted to home, only to feel his whole mind stop seeing the damage. It was burning. His home was burning. He couldn’t tear his eyes away from the fire, feeling a burning in his chest as he saw it. It filled him with fear, but also… Rage. A deep, primal rage settled in his stomach, fists clenching. This wasn’t right. None of them deserved this. It only got more intense with every passing second, watching the demons close in on his home, and himself. No. Something clicked within him- And everything went white. He awoke silently, sunlight drifting in through the curtains beside him, the only tell of a nightmare being his clenched fists gripping the bedsheets tightly. “Ah…” He took a slow breath, closing his eyes to calm himself down. Just a dream. Just a dream. “Hey, V, you alright?” Griffon’s voice was low as he appeared beside him, keeping just enough distance not to startle him. “What was it this time?” V, now somewhat collected, slowly sat up, only trembling slightly as he did. Still not at full strength, but a couple more nights of rest should do well for him. “The day everything went wrong the first time.” He kept his voice even, curt, clipped. He was not in the mood to think about the past at the moment. “Are we keeping the princesses waiting?” He kicked his legs out to the side of the bed, leaning down to sort out his outfit. “”Uh, no? I don’t think so anyway. Heard some of the guards muttering about the excitement of you bein’ here, but nothing else.” Griffon hopped up beside him, glancing up at V. “Seriously though, V, you ain’t gonna… Lapse again like you did to Dante, are ya?” V just smiled, a hollow, sad facsimile of one, but a smile nonetheless. “What is there to lapse into? There is no trace of Sparda or his legacy in this land.” He stood up slowly, grabbing his book as he did so. Could do with a bit of reading to properly calm his nerves. “The only thing left is a remnant of a broken man.” Griffon had nothing to say about that, simply deciding to slip back onto V. That bird reminded him far too much of Dante sometimes. Once his wares were sorted out, he made for the door, slowly pushing it open. Time to meet this Twilight Sparkle. When he got to the royal dining room, he wasn’t expecting more than Celestia, maybe Luna as well, having there meals, or failing that, no one at all. He could have slept in, or maybe they had their meals at different time than normal, but it didn’t matter either way. As soon as he stepped inside the room, with his two guard escorts stopping at the door, the new faces at the table caught his eye. He supposed the pony was Miss Sparkle, but the other one appeared to be some sort of lizard... He turned his focus to the sole princess in the room, nodding to Celestia as he stepped closer, taking a seat just across from this… Twilight, who evidently hadn’t noticed him until he appeared in front of her. “Ah-Ohmygosh!” Immediately, she sprung to life from where she had been sitting, horn lighting up as she conjured up some kind of paper and quill, rapidly scribbling down some kind of note as she looked him up and down. He glanced at the Princess, quirking a brow as she quietly giggled at her student. Someone was rather excited, though he supposed he couldn’t blame her. “Ahem, Twilight, dear.” As soon as she spoke, Miss Sparkle froze, laughing sheepishly as she set down the paper, before composing herself. “Sorry, I got a little carried away there, heh.” She coughed into her hoof, before smiling at him brightly. “My name is Twilight Sparkle. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mister..?” He smiled. He couldn’t help playing up the mystique again, truly, so he reached for his poems, flipping towards the same quote he used a month ago. “I have no name, I am but two days old…” He frowned mentally. Didn’t quite work as well now that it wasn’t as accurate, but it caught her off guard at least. “Just kidding. You can call me V.” “Ohhhh-kay, V, great to meet you.” Her smile felt a little forced, noting down something again out of what appeared as instinct before she caught herself. “Aheh, sorry again. Is that… Your real name? Do our species just name yourselves after… letters?” He winked. “Well, that’s for you to find out. It’s not fun if all the answers are laid out for you, after all.” With a snap of paper, his book closed as he pocketed it. “I assume your princess has caught you up to speed with myself, then?” He turned to said princess, nodding politely. “As a matter of fact, I was in the middle of it when you came in. Perhaps you can chip in with the explanations now that you’re here?” She smiled gently, lifting her teacup as she took a sip. “It’s no better to hear the details than from the source, after all.” “I suppose you’re correct.” He leaned back into his chair, looking to the last sat at the table. “I don’t suppose you could introduce yourself before we get to it, though?” He hadn’t expected to be called to the stand, so to speak, as he sat there blinking in surprise before collecting his thoughts. “Ah, I’m Spike, Twilight’s number one assistant.” He seemed rather proud of that, closing his eyes and putting a hand to his chest, before hopping up on the table and pointing a claw at him. “And I’ve got my eye on you, mister. No one messes with Twilight on my watch!” He could feel Griffon’s mischief coming before he felt the pull of his energy, appearing right in front of the dragon with a cackle. “Ahahaha, look at this little pipsqueak, thinking he can intimidate anyone, hahaha!” Spike yelped, leaping back in shock as he mocked the little lizard. “Hey, V, you know anything this lizard can beat?” “I’m a DRAGON!” Regaining his confidence, got into the familiar’s face as he glared daggers into his eyes. “And get that through your head, birdbrain-” Before he could continue, he was dragged back by Miss Sparkle’s magic, Griffon only getting a second to gloat before V called him back again. “Alright, Spike, calm down.” Twilight only looked somewhat disturbed by Griffon’s appearance, at least. She must have been told about him, then, otherwise he’d probably have gotten that horn pointed at him. “There’s no need to antagonise anyone. Even if that bird was… Rude.” “Forgive him. He’s rather… Loudmouthed.” He could feel the squawk of indignation, but he ignored it. “Now, where were we? You wanted the full story?” The good thing about having to go through the story again was being able to keep control of the narrative, and he was none too thankful for that. The pair in front of him listened to every detail, only occasionally speaking up to ask a question or two about details from either himself or the princess, before letting him talk once more. If he could pat himself on the back, he was a rather good storyteller, judging from the expressions of the pair. His obsession with poetry had its benefits. Before long though, they were caught up to speed, and that left them with the next step of things. “... And that’s why I assume you’re here.” He paused momentarily, letting her finish her notes, before continuing. “I need your help to find my other familiars. They won’t be of any danger unless provoked, but I’m afraid they’ll be rather… Vulnerable without me.” Unfortunately, the danger part was a lie, but having your only means of defense be targeted for being a danger to the locals wasn’t on his wishlist. The princess nodded, standing up from her seat. “I shall leave you two to talk. I’m afraid I must get started on my duties, but the library is free to you as always, dear Twilight.” She smiled at her, leaning down to nuzzle her, before turning around. “And V, if you need anything, don’t be afraid to ask. I’m happy to assist.” “There will be no need.” He waved a hand casually. “I’m sure Miss Sparkle can help me enough.” Said Miss Sparkle blushed a little at the praise, before lifting her notes and pocketing them in the satchel she had brought. “Then let’s get started. No time to waste!” Following that, the three remaining started their trek to the library. He wasn’t sure how it’d help, exactly, but she seemed adamant that it was the way to go for the moment. She seemed rather… Focused, he supposed. It reminded him of himself. His whole self, not this half of him. Though his focus was much more destructive. “Say, V…” She slowed her trot down to keep pace with him, looking up with a raised brow. “If you don’t mind me asking… What exactly are your familiars? All I know is that they’re bound to you.” Griffon, who had taken flight now that he wasn’t being forcefully constrained to V, cackled at her, flying low to meet her gaze. “Take a guess, Sparky. Your princesses got it on the first try, and you seem like the nerdy type to know that shit, heheheh.” V wished he had his cane at the moment, instead sighing and grabbing him by hand. “Hey, what’s the big idea, Paper Boy?!” “Apologies again.” She didn’t look nearly as startled as last time, at least. “Don’t worry, I was told about how… Brash, he was.” She flashed an understanding smile at him, before looking at the bird in V’s grip, squabbling and squirming in anger. “Hm… That magic energy coming from him isn’t exactly good, is it?” “No kidding…” Spike kept his distance from the pair, glaring at Griffon suspiciously. “I swear, Twilight, he’s gonna claw our eyes out or something.” V smiled, letting Griffon go after a warning look, before looking at the dragon. “Aren’t you supposed to be assisting Twilight in learning about friendship? That doesn’t seem rather inviting.” Spike, to his credit, looked rather abashed at that, rubbing a claw behind his neck as his gaze was drawn to the floor. “Not that the suspicion is unwarranted, of course. You are talking about a demon.” “... A WHAT?!” Twilight leapt back, barely stopping herself from blasting a spell at the bird, judging from the sparks of her horn. “V, what do you mean he’s a demon?! Demons are dangerous! He’s dangerous!” Griffon snorted, perching on V’s shoulder. “Yeah, yeah, just be glad I’m not as bad as some other demons. Seriously, some of ‘em are vicious. Stupid, though.” He leaned down, preening at his wing idly. “Anyway, V, you sure you wanna be revealing that all willy nilly?” “Were you not just goading her on to guess?” Griffon opened his beak, before closing it again, having nothing to say. “That’s what I thought. Besides… She’s an ally. I’m not about to proclaim it to the world, now.” “Right…” Twilight stepped back towards the pair, keeping Spike behind her as she did. “Well, so long as he doesn’t hurt anypony, it’s fine. Just, make sure that doesn’t happen, please?” He nodded, looking pointedly at his familiar. “That won’t happen, Miss Sparkle. He’s loyal to me, and I wish no harm to you. Though we must make haste in finding my other companions, before they grow weaker.” The air felt thick with tension after that. Three hours of searching the library, and nothing to show for it. He had a feeling that’d be the case, but a silver lining was easy access to the history of this civilisation. That became his focus of the time there once it became clear he wouldn’t find anything useful in the pages of the books. Twilight, though… She was running herself ragged, concerning the librarian even more than his presence. “Uh, Miss Twilight, are you-” “Yes, I am, don’t worry about me!” That wasn’t the voice of someone calm. He closed the book about the history of Canterlot, setting it down where he was sitting as he stood up. It was best to see how she was progressing in her search. And to temper her expectations a bit. “Miss Sparkle?” With a hand to the bookshelf to stabilise his legs after being sat down for so long, he turned the corner, taking in the sight of an older pony looking between himself and the purple unicorn throwing books around to and from their shelves, skimming through them at a frightening speed, even for an avid reader like himself. “... Miss Sparkle, there’s no need to work yourself this much. I don’t think you’ll find what we’re looking for here.” She stopped for only a moment, sighing and slumping as she did, before quickly putting the books that were still floating around her back where they belonged. Well, he assumed that at least. “You’re right. I should have known, but I just thought…” She looked downright dejected, standing back up and walking towards him. “I just didn’t want to let you down after you put your hopes in me, that’s all.” A puff of air left his nose as he smiled down at her. “I mean no disrespect, Miss Sparkle, but I doubt you’d find anything about it in these walls. It’s good to read up on the history of this land, but I haven’t seen anything to do with… My familiars.” His eyes glanced to the librarian, before going back to Twilight. “Perhaps you have another location in mind?” Her brows furrowed in thought as she tapped her chin. “... Sorry. All I know are books, but… Maybe my friends could help?” Her eyes lit up, smile back in place. “Spike, would you mind writing to the girls for me?” Said dragon, who up until now was catching breath, stood up straight, pulling a quill and paper. “You got it, boss.” After taking a moment to clear her throat, Twilight began to relay her thoughts. “Dear Applejack, when you get this letter, if you would be so kind as to get the rest of the girls to read this letter, I’d be very grateful.” She took a second, letting Spike catch up. “My trip to Canterlot has taken an interesting turn, and I need your help. I’m currently assisting a new visitor to Equestria find his friends who have appeared somewhere too, and I’m afraid I don’t know how to find them on my own. I’m not sure if he can come back with me, but when I do, I’d like to set up some kind of… Neighbourhood watch.” Spike looked at her quizzically, but jotted it down anyway. “In the meantime, would you please keep an eye out for anything unusual? Something like…” She paused, looking up at V. “Come to think of it, you never told me what your familiars looked like, did you?” “No, I did not.” He contemplated telling her for a moment, before sighing internally. No point making it harder for himself. “Only because you trust your friends. Tell them to keep an eye out for a panther and… A towering construct.” With but a head tilt, she nodded, gesturing to Spike to write what he said down. Once that was sorted, all that was left was sending the letter. Contrary to what he thought, though… FWOOSH “... Did he just set it aflame?” He wasn’t caught off guard too often, but in this case, he wouldn’t blame himself for his reaction looking back. “That seems rather… Counterintuitive.” “Oh, don’t worry. Spike’s flames are special.” V had a lot to learn about this land, that was one certainty here. Applejack had just gotten done with work for the morning when the letter appeared in front of her. Wasn’t often Spike sent her a letter… Once she pulled off the seal, with a little bit of difficulty, she wasn’t used to the darn things, her eyes took in the words. As she read on, her brows furrowed a bit. Looked like this was gonna be a bit of a doozy for Ponyville until they found them. She sped off down the path towards Ponyville. Lunch could wait a bit. “Ah…” It took a humiliating amount of time to gather the strength to walk again, but after a day, enough blood had been spilled to give him that boost he needed to retreat somewhere less open. Even a cave would do for the moment, as unwilling as he was to admit it. He was in no state to walk in the open, in case Dante was on the prowl looking for him. With only a trickle of blood left from his healing chest wound in his wake, he trudged through the woods as quick as he could, reaching a clearing for him to look over. “... That will do.” A bit of smoke was coming from it, but it would do for the moment. Despite his injuries, he was far stronger than he was a day ago, so crossing the forest and climbing the rock mountain was of little challenge to him. He didn’t like being so open, but luck seemed to be on his side for once. The only things to run into him were the wildlife, which served the great purpose of carrying him further along. But a fraction of his former self, but he hadn’t sacrificed everything for nothing in return. Besides… The blood here was just as vitalising as human blood. Much smaller, of course, but in time… He’d usurp even his previous power. Grooooooowl… His fists clenched. Of course, this wouldn’t be an empty cave. No matter. He wasn’t going to trudge through the dirt any more than he had to. He was a king, and nothing, no one, was going to best him again. He would not lose ever again. Not to this beast, not to Dante, not to that mortal, not to his other half… Not to anyone. Author's Note Took me a bit because life is life but hey the funny scoliosis man is making connections yahoo
Prologue: An Unusual Awakening“He who binds to himself a joy Does the winged life destroy; But he who kisses the joy as it flies Lives in eternity's sun rise.” Regret was a feeling he had known for the past month, twinged with hints of despair. Reeling from what he’d done as a whole being for the sake of power was truly soul-crushing. Alas, he’d done what he could. V held no regrets for what he’d done to survive. Desperation fueled his every move in his last few hours of life, clinging to Nero desperately as he struggled every step of the way towards the bottom of the tree that started all of the mess. The mess that he had created. Or rather, his other half. He held no regrets for surviving, for holding his cane above the gaping wound of Urizen, hearing his twin’s rapid footsteps as he no doubt realised what he was about to do, plunging it deep within- And then nothing. At least, for a little while. It was a surprise. He’d thought he’d just be… Whole again. Himself. One being, no longer split in a desperate attempt to survive his grave injuries. A small part of him would have rather let himself die, in hindsight, if only to undo the damage he had caused in reaction to the Qliphoth appearing. “Hey, paper boy, wakey wakey.” As short as it was, he’d had a good life, just being his human self. Even if his sleep was hardly comforting. His thoughts, now that he could think on his actions throughout his life, were nothing short of hostile, pointing out every little mistake he’d made, from the mundane to the destructive. They’d even found a way to make him feel bad for wanting chocolate more than Dante, back when they were a happy family together. “Seriously, Shakespeare, the sun’s shining, now’s not the time for a nap!” He supposed he was paying for all his mistakes now, sitting in the darkness of what he assumed was oblivion. He didn’t even get the right to go to hell yet. He shouldn’t have existed at all, yet- ZAP! “Gah!” An electrifying feeling shot through him all at once. That made him pause for a moment. He shouldn’t even have a body, yet… He felt his eyelids open instinctively as the shock wore off, warmth hitting him as his mind came to. His body still felt weak. Very weak. He could barely even turn his head, trying to find the cause of the shock. One certainly would think his new lease on life was kinder to his health... “Oh, finally! Geez, I know things were rough for ya, but daylight’s burning, and I got no clue where we are!” A familiar voice squawked, nudging his arm with his beak. “Now, you gonna stand up or do I need to give the Griffon special?” He chuckled on instinct. This was a nice reminder of why he liked him, even though he was nothing more than a nightmare. Rocky start or not, he still had come to rely on him. Still… Why were they here? He should be... “Ah… I’m afraid I’m a little strained to move right now. I’m not in any shape to do much at the moment.” Lamenting was all he could do, his throat dry from thirst as he weakly turned his head towards the familiar, a small smile on his face. “Though I’m glad to see a familiar face… Wherever we are.” Griffon ruffled his feathers a bit in reaction, sputtering as he looked away. “Well, you better get back into shape real quick, uh… If you’re not dying anyway.” He tried to keep light-hearted, but the concern remained, turning back to him. Even now, he cared. He looked back up to the sky, squinting a little as the sun bore down on him. He felt weak, but the draining feeling he had grown accustomed to over that month and a half separated wasn’t there. If anything, things felt… Normal. A hazy memory floated up in the back of his mind, the image of himself lying in bed sick from the flu. Being half demon, he didn’t think he could get sick, but he supposed in hindsight it was because of his age. He felt bedridden, but it was hardly dangerous for him. He wasn’t… Well, dying. “No… I’m just tired. Being on the brink of falling apart would cause that.” He sighed, closing his eyes momentarily, feeling the wind’s gentle breeze hit his prone body. For the first time in what felt like years, he could relax momentarily. “Are we in danger of being hunted?” He heard a light thump as Griffon lowered himself to the ground beside him, sighing in relief. “Phew. I wouldn’t say danger, but, uh… Well, it’s only the two of us. The big bad kitty and the big guy’s not here. We’re in some kinda garden. Real fancy, too. Like some kinda queen’s living here or somethin’.’” He paused for a brief moment, pondering. “Though I know we aren’t alone here. This place is… Well, it’s got horses in it, at least.” He almost didn’t register that last part. “Pardon me?” He craned his neck down once again to his familiar, brow quirked in confusion. “Did you say horses?” Griffon stood again, nodding. “Yeah, I know, sounds fucking stupid, but I’m telling ya the truth. I managed to peek in one of the windows and I saw a horse pushing a cart filled with food somewhere. Wherever we are, it ain’t normal.” He hummed to himself, looking to the nearby hedge. From what he could gather, they were somewhere secluded, hidden, but still reachable. He could see why he wanted him awake now. Still visibly weak, his body strained as he tried to sit himself up, only for Griffon to quickly jump up and push him back down again. “Oh, no you don’t, V. You’re in no shape to move right now, and for once you’re gonna sit your ass down for a few minutes to rest. I’ll have another look. Got it, Paperweight?” His concern was showing again. His eyes glowed intensely as he stared him down, unmoving. Daring him to move. “... I’ll stay put, then.” He smiled a smidge, reaching up to pat him with a gloved hand. “But the moment there’s someone coming, you’ll help me move. I’m in no condition to fight right now, and not even bravado could mask that.” Happy enough with his response, Griffon gently shoved his hand away from him, hopping off his chest as he spread his wings. “Yeah, yeah, sure. What I get for showing care for my master, sheesh.” He turned one last time to him, eyes pointed. “... Glad to have you here still, V. Even if it’s… Weird right now.” He shook his head. “Indeed. I’m, glad to have you around still. Misery loves company.” Griffon snorted, turning back around. “Yeah, well, I’m a bundle of sunshine compared to your goth ass.” With that comment, he took flight, keeping low as he turned around the corner, disappearing behind the bush, leaving V once again to his thoughts. “... And what is wrong with my lifestyle, exactly?” He’d kept quiet since Griffon had left. It’d been… A while. That was getting a tad concerning. Griffon couldn’t go far without him, contract or not, so he couldn’t be too far away from him. Maybe he could… He tried once again to sit up, with considerably less difficulty, as he grunted from the effort. It’d be difficult walking, but he could at least stand again. He could perhaps take a look around. Maybe he’d feel Griffon’s presence. With a little effort, he lifted himself up to his own two feet, grimacing a little as a dizzy feeling of vertigo hit him. Even when not dying, he still felt weak. He frowned to himself at the thought. All the time seeking power, and for what… He shook his head. Enough with the dwelling. Griffon was what was important at the moment. Reaching for a nearby tree for balance, he lifted one foot, stepping forwards awkwardly as he felt his other leg buckle a little. Maybe not walking, then. Still, he had to find Griffon somewhere… He closed his eyes, focusing on what little demonic energy he had left. It was risky, given his condition, but without him he was dead anyway. Using that energy, he called out to Griffon- … … A call back. One filled with panic. “Ah. Damn.” He opened his eyes again. This wasn’t good. He had to call him back, and quickly before he got hurt. His arm lifted up, coming to rest straight beside him, and he called again to Griffon. “Come back.” He waited for a moment… And sighed. No response. He lowered his arm. Not enough- “-AAAH-” A heavy weight landed on top of his head, forcing V back down to the ground again as he lost balance. At least it worked. “AAA- Oh, hey, it worked.” Sounding far too calm for someone just being in danger, Griffon hopped off his head, brushing his hair with the wind as he fell. “C’mon, V, we gotta get moving quick, before those horses come knocking and lock me in some enclosure. They don’t like me very much, heh.” He groaned as he pushed himself up once again, thankful that his strength was returning him slowly. It’d take a few days before he was back to what strength he had, but he could at least limp along if he had something to hold onto. “And, pray tell, how exactly did you get yourself discovered?” He glanced down at Griffon as he grasped that tree again, beginning the difficult walk with the bird following in tow. “Uh, well…” Griffon was trying to be sneaky, he really was, but he wasn’t exactly built for it, now was he? No, he wasn’t. He was built for combat, for standing up to his foes, even as a nightmare, as much of a hindrance as that was for any party involved. So he didn’t find it funny that he was suddenly forced to pose as a dumbass bird in the garden as those horses came walking in, presumably to do some dumbass shit or to clean it up. As they approached, he looked at them, trying his best to keep a dumb look in his eyes, a gasp ringing out from one of them as they looked at him. Imagine his surprise when the left one opened their mouth. “Oh, what a magnificent bird!” What. He masked his surprise as a squawk as the horse that was currently speaking to him looked up at his perching spot, eyes filled with awe. He really shouldn’t have been surprised, considering what he was, but he was a demon, not a… A talking horse! He couldn’t sense any demonic energy coming from either of them! Seriously! “Oh, what plumage! Those feathers! Oh, that beak! Where’d you come from, you pretty little thing?” The horse with enthusiasm was trying to reach him, jumping up in vain as he stared down at her, still trying to keep that dumb look in his eyes and now fighting back the urge to make a biting remark about her enthusiasm. The other one, though, it looked rather unnerved by him. Understandable. He was a big shot in the demon world. Well, his real self was, anyway. That counted, right? “Uh, Sweet Pea, that bird looks a little… Dangerous. I mean, that has to be a hunter, right? Those talons look like they could claw out your eyes…” She shivered at that, backing away. He squawked in response, flexing his feet as a show of said talons, the glint shining in the light. Sweet Pea, as she was named, stupid fucking name, wasn’t bothered at all. She seemed rather happy about it. Weirdo. “Oh, you’re right! You’re a dangerous bird, aren’t you? How’d the Princess find someone like you, huh?” A Princess owned this place. At least he wasn’t going back empty-clawed. The horse tried again to reach him, but this time he backed away into the air, squawking almost mockingly as he stared down at her. “Sweet Pea, be careful! Don’t make it angry!” The other horse kept her distance, yet still stared at her friend with fear. Good, she was the one with the brains of the two. “Oh, relax, Sunrise, he’s just startled. I’m sure the Princess wouldn’t bring a dangerous bird here and let it roam free.” She backed off at least, looking at him with awe all the while. If only she knew. He couldn’t help the slight chortle that came out of his throat, catching the pair’s attention. “... Huh?” “Did it just…” A pang of fear hit him, realising the mistake. Maybe if he played it off? He squawked again, trying his best to make it sound like that laugh. It didn’t work, judging from their narrowing eyes. “Sweet Pea, I don’t like this…” The other horse started backing away again, looking at her friend anxiously. “Maybe we should get the guards? See if this is their bird?” “Hm…” Sweet Pea looked suspiciously at him. “You’re right. Let’s go.” She turned around quickly, hurrying along. He couldn’t let that happen. Not in a million years, nope, nuh uh. Thinking quickly, he took flight again, quickly darting away from the area. The pair didn’t let him go so easy though. “H-Hey, come back here!” “... And then you called me back. Sorry for the head hit, by the way.” He sighed to himself. At least he didn’t reveal he could talk. Still, the guards here could be looking for him, and that was a bad sign. They had to find a way out of there quick before either of them got caught. He didn’t know how that would go, and he didn’t particularly care to find out. Not while his other means of defense were missing. “Did you at least see a way out of here, or am I going to have to hobble around blindly?” He looked to his side to watch for any horse on the lookout, before beginning the limp across the path to the next set of bushes. The gate was nearby, so at least he was nearly out of this particular maze. “Uh, no? Before I could get anywhere the horses stopped me. Though it’ll be a cakewalk compared to Red Grave.” He felt the ink of his tattoo pulse a bit as he chortled to himself. “Maybe I should have brought my garden shears here too. Much easier than the Qliphoth to cleave through, eh?” He smiled to himself. “Heh. Keep sharp, I may need you if we get caught.” He ached for his cane right now. It’d make this at least a little easier for himself instead of stabbing his hands on thorns or splinters. “You know I got your back, kid. Remember, dying is whack.” He shook his head. In a way, he was thankful he had Griffon out of the three. He wouldn’t know what to do if he hadn’t had him to bounce off of. “Just a little further.” “Halt!” … Damnit. Author's Note Woag funny goth boy in horsey world poggies Whipped this up in an hour because I had the urge and the voices won so here have this starter, may continue it may not I don't know but hey it'll be good to flex my writing chops again after a couple years
Mission 1: An Unusual Meeting“If the Sun and Moon should ever doubt, they'd immediately go out.” V’s eyes were glued to his book as he sat on the far-too-small cot, hunching slightly as his eyes focused on the verses in front of him. The smile he wore was one of happiness, looking through his old notes was quite a joy, especially now. “Psst, V, any ideas on how to get out of here, exactly?” The ink pulsed slightly on his skin as Griffon spoke in hushed tones, only just masking his slight unease at being in a cramped room. He shook his head at that. “Sadly, no. The guards have been rather… Accommodating, though. I get the feeling that we aren’t in as much danger as once thought.” Still, his eyes glanced to the bars leading outside. Far too small for a pony, never mind him, but tempting to let Griffon blast the bars. Speaking of… “Ugh, V, look, I get that you don’t wanna cause a scene, but you’re not exactly a fighting guy. What if they decide to just, off ya?” The familiar was nervous, and they both knew that. If he died, so did Griffon. “Now’s not exactly the time to speak prose to them.” He just smiled knowingly. “Perhaps not. But I know you’ll come in handy if they do decide to take… Drastic measures.” He snapped the book shut, pocketing it in his coat as he looked to the door. Griffon’s form pulsed against him in begrudging acceptance but said nothing else for the moment. “Only cuz you’re puffing up my ego…” The pair fell into silence, only ruined by the occasional door opening or closing inside the halls of the prison as the guards patrolled or took over for others. The sole guard that passed him shot him a nervous look. Must have been new to the job. Of course, he did nothing in response. Before long though… Clacking rang through the halls shortly after the doors opened once again. It stood out against the other hoof steps of the guards, and they were only getting louder. Someone was coming. “Uh oh.” Griffon did his best to keep still, only trembling lightly. “That sounds like your death date, kid. Hope you’ve got a plan.” V stared at the door in silence, expression unmoving, only slightly tense. There was nothing he could do if they turned out hostile. His book’s weight felt comforting against him at that moment. “... This is the cell?” A warm voice spoke, just shy of his sight. If he knew angels didn’t exist, he’d be inclined to call the voice one. Yet he knew all too well that looks could be deceiving. “Yes, your highness. The creature was found in the gardens, as I’m sure you’ve been told. It came without a fight, so we saw no need to restrain it once it was in the cell.” He swore he recognised that voice, but all the guards he heard sounded the same. Didn’t truly matter though. “Keep quiet, Griffon.” He kept his voice low, still watching the door. “We don’t want to startle our… Judge.” As expected, Griffon said nothing. Yet another reason he was reliable, obedient when push came to shove. “I see. Well done, guards. I’ll see the creature now. Leave me.” A pair of quieter hooves signalled the guards were indeed leaving as she ordered before the owner of said voice finally came into view. And she truly was intimidating. Standing much taller than any other pony he’d seen so far, with both a horn and a pair of wings… An alicorn, if his memory served correctly. “I take it you’re the ruler of this castle?” He kept cordial, keeping his gaze firmly on hers as he spoke. Weakness wouldn’t do for this conversation. She just smiled in response, nodding. “Indeed. I am Princess Celestia, Co-ruler of Equestria. And you are…?” Her gaze, ever gentle, waited for his response. That look reminded him of… He shook his head lightly. Now wasn’t the time for bittersweet memories. “You can call me V.” If she was confused by his name, she didn’t show it as she nodded along, accepting it. “Hello V. If I may ask, what were you doing inside my gardens? There was simply no way for you to get in without at least being spotted by my guards beforehand, seeing as you’re a grounded creature.” Still wearing that patient look… He blinked, taking a second to collect himself again. “Well, dear princess… I don’t quite know. Without getting into specifics, I don’t think I was supposed to end up here. I’m about as clueless as you, as a matter of fact.” Again, she nodded, accepting all of this as one would if she had asked her about his lunch. “I see. In that case, could you explain why not two minutes before, two of my maids were telling my guards about an unusual bird in those same gardens?” She tilted her head, still smiling patiently. Griffon pulsed slightly against him as if his breath had hitched. “I have no clue either. Perhaps it was simply unrelated?” If he had his strength, he’d be standing up by now. A sign of his nerves, perhaps, but thankfully he couldn’t without risk of falling. She just smiled, almost as if she knew he was lying. “Oh really? Alright then. If you wouldn’t mind me asking then… Why were those patterns moving just now?” She kept that same damn stare up, reminding him far too much of his mother. He felt like a child with the cookie jar at the moment. “... Hm? Perhaps it was a trick of the light? They’re simply tattoos.” Two could play the patience game, though. The years of his life alone had taught him that. “Hm.” She didn’t show any signs of cracking, instead taking a moment to observe him. “If you’re going to keep at the lies, V, then I’m afraid I can’t help you through this. If you want to return home, then I need to know I can trust you.” There were the negotiations at least. Something he would predict and work around. “And how, pray tell, would you be able to help me if neither of us have any clue how I came to be here?” A hand found its way running through his hair, white locks brushing out of his vision as he kept his calm smile up. “I mean no offence princess, but I have no clue of your capabilities.” She nodded at that, accepting the point. A small part of him, the childish part, felt vindicated at his wits. “That is a fair point. But let me ask you this. What do you exactly plan to do? I can’t let you go running around, and disrupt my little ponies, now can I?” For a brief moment, her gaze hardened. “I don’t want this to end sourly, V. Far too many events have ended like that for my liking.” And like that, he was reminded of the power at play here. This was a ruler of a kingdom, and he was an outsider. She had all the power in the world to seal him away, to kill him, or many untold things. He didn’t like it, but she was right. He didn’t exactly have a plan this time. Not like when Urizen started seeking power. This time, he was in unknown territory. “... I see. So that is how it is.” Still keeping his easygoing smile, he lifted an arm to his side. “Here, now.” Another pulse against his skin as Griffon sighed. “If you’re sure, kid.” With only a slight rippling noise, His familiar appeared on his arm, perched and staring at the Princess. “So this rainbow’s the head of the kingdom, huh? Seems rather cliché, don’t ya think, V?” He could hear the grin in his voice. “Heh, perhaps. Perhaps this is indeed a fairy tale.” He turned towards him for a moment. “I don’t suppose you’ll play the part of the hero’s partner, will you?” Griffon cackled at that. “I see now.” The Princess’s voice demanded his attention once again, which he obliged without a word. “This is the bird I heard about… And that energy…” Her eyes narrowed a little in thought. “I don’t suppose you don’t know what he is, do you?” He glanced at Griffon again, humming. Best to play dumb until she revealed her hand a bit. “I don’t know what you mean. He’s just my familiar.” Another chuckle from Griffon, preening at his feathers a bit. “Loyal, if a little loudmouthed.” “Hey, someone’s gotta talk for the two of us, since you’re so quiet and broody.” V huffed a little at that, smiling still. “V…” Celestia’s voice cut through like a knife. “I’m afraid if you keep withholding information from me, I can’t treat you with the trust you desire. You’re going to have to open up a little more if you want out of this cell.” Griffon sighed in exasperation, sagging a little bit. “Sheesh, it’s never easy in the life of the two amigos, is it?” She shot Griffon a stern look as if scolding him, which made him pause. “Ah, eh, uh… Right.” “... What do you suspect then, dear Princess?” He couldn’t risk agitating the ruler. “If I can dissuade your fears, it’ll be the best for the both of us.” It had been a long forty-five minutes talking with the Princess, explaining what he could without divulging too much about his origin. As far as she knew, he was a human who had been practising a spell with the assistance of his familiar Griffon when he’d been transported there. Of course, he couldn’t hide the fact that he was using a demon as a familiar, nor the fact that he had two more potentially out in the world somewhere. Idly, he wondered how they were faring without him. They were still bound to him so they wouldn’t fade, but their strength was certainly sapped being so far away from him. As such, Celestia had permitted him to come along with her, but he wasn’t to move out of her sight. She may have accepted his words, but she didn’t fully trust him as of yet, seeing as, in her eyes, he had no qualms about aligning with demons of evil. Needless to say, Griffon was sour over the apparent disrespect and was busy sulking to himself as he flew above the pair of them. He found it rather amusing, seeing the shoe on the other foot. “And you stop grinning at me, paper boy! I’m not messing around!” Griffon darted at him, just missing him as V turned his head slightly. “What was once proved, was once only imagined.” He turned to Celestia, mildly thankful she was keeping close. One wrong step and he would be on the floor. “Ignore his temper tantrum. In time, he’ll… Come around.” “Will you stop talkin’ poetry?! I’m serious here!” Another dash, and yet another miss, and a yelp as a pony watched the bird dart across the hall, before scampering away. Celestia chuckled, having slipped back into a lighter tone during their walk. “It’s no bother, truly. If he’s bound to you, he’ll behave. I know contracts are important to a demon.” Her gaze fell to the bird as he flew around to face them again, still glowering at V. “Besides… I believe that giving others the chance for friendship is important, no matter the creature.” V was thankful for that. Though he did find it rather… Naive, he wasn’t about to disrespect her while he was on a short leash. “Sound advice.” The pair fell into silence, V sidestepping Griffon’s lazy attempts to knock him down as they did, as they headed towards their destination, only occasionally getting a strange look from a member of staff as they travelled the long halls. Before long, though, he found himself curious. “If you don’t mind me asking… What exactly is your plan?” She glanced down at him, a gentle smile still on her face. Again… He blinked the memories away. “I plan on writing to someone near and dear to me, first. She’ll be rather… Excited, shall we say. Besides, it’ll be a good learning opportunity for her studies.” Her horn lit up with a golden glow as the door in front of them swung open on its own, stepping inside quickly. “Come. I know you’re feeling weak at the moment, take a seat.” Following her inside to some kind of meeting room, he obliged his aching legs, reaching for the first seat he could get to as he sighed, Griffon landing beside him quietly, having calmed down a little bit. From the dishevelled feathers though, he was still rather angry. “Studies, hm? Is she a scholar, then?” He rested his elbows on the (just a little too low) table, resting his head on his clasped hands. “Or is she some sort of royal figure like yourself?” Celestia took a moment, taking a seat across from him as she nodded. “Indeed. She’s my student, living in another town for the time being on my request, and her wishes.” Her smile felt… Forlorn, talking about her, yet happy all the same. “Having just spoken to you, I believe she would be more suited to assisting you for the time being than I would. Being the ruler of a kingdom, with a sister or not, is still incredibly busy.” Griffon, still agitated, grumbled to himself. “Great, another bookworm. As if we need more poetry.” A quick clap to the back of the head followed suit. “Wuh- Ow, what the hell was that for?!” He just smiled at him, knowing yet silent. “We don’t want to disrespect our host now, do we?” He turned back to the Princess, humming. “That is, if she will be hosting.” She nodded, albeit with some hesitance. “If you manage to get along with her during her visit, then you shall accompany her back home. Though it’s not really you who is of concern to me…” Her eyes stared at the demon in the room with the pair, who squawked in annoyance. “Great, gang up on the poor bird, sure, not like I’m innocent in all this anyway.” He turned away, huffing again. “Not like I’m that bad anyway…” V nodded, focusing his gaze once again. That reminded him. “Princess, if I may ask… Keep an eye out for my other familiars, as I said. I’m sure you’ll know them if you see them.” Civility was key, and it paid off in spades. “Of course. Familiars or not, it is still a matter of security. It will be up to you to control them should they turn hostile, understand?” Again her gaze hardened, not taking anything less than an affirmation, which he was more than happy to oblige. “Indeed. That was my plan.” With another smile, he clapped his hands together. “If that is all… I believe I should get some rest, and maybe a meal. That spell wore me down a lot.” She nodded, standing back up with a thoughtful look. “Perhaps they’ve got my cake ready yet…” Far off from the cities of Equestria, buried in the trees and hidden away from sight, a lumbering figure laid, mortally wounded. “Ah…” Its voice warbled in agony as it shifted, trying in vain to stand up once again. Alas, its energy was drained, still recovering from the final battle it was in. Indeed, he had survived, although barely. He needed to find a way to heal, and quickly before the wounds became too much to bear. “Blood…” Anything would do at this point. Human blood was the prime, but something a simple animal would do to stave off death. “I need… More, power…” He would never fail again. He would never be weak again. He was power, absolute. He would rise to the top once more, no matter what it took to get there. All that mattered was strength.
Mission 2: Seek The Stars“If a thing loves, it is infinite.” It had been… A day or so? He couldn’t quite keep track of the time through the sun like his old reality as he had found out upon seeing the light level suddenly change. He had questions for the Princess when she returned after leaving him for a few minutes. “Oh, you don’t know? Rather peculiar.” She had pursed her lips in thought as soon as his question was processed, humming. “It’s my… Well, special talent is the best way to describe it. It says so right there.” Her wing had lifted to give him a good look at the image on her flank. A sun sat there, truthfully telling him little to nothing about it but regardless interested him in its importance. “I control the sun, and my sister controls the moon. Speaking of, it’s about time she should be coming to get caught up on affairs…” She turned towards the door again, looking to him for a moment. “That includes you, of course. Come.” And that had led him to meet the other half of the ruling monarchy, Princess Luna, which had gone about as different from Celestia as one would expect without it turning into a fight. “Hello, dear sister. Sleep well?” Celestia had welcomed her with a cup of tea, offering it to her with her magic as she, rather unsuited for the image of a royal, grumped and grabbed the cup, drinking it in one go before setting it down. “About as well as one would expect, thine sister.” She seemed exhausted, almost… Guilty, looking even smaller than she already was compared to her sister, before taking a breath and looking back up. Right at him. The following silence would qualify as deafening if he wasn’t used to it. “Sister… One does not wish to come off as rude, but what is thine creature sitting beside you?” Her eyes trailed his tattoo, eyes narrowing slightly. “And thy energy… It is not of thine light nor our dark.” Celestia let out a small sigh, standing up with a gentle smile. “He is of no danger as of now, Luna. This is V, our guest, following some… Interesting developments.” She turned back to him, nodding. “V, introduce yourself.” With a polite nod, he stepped forward, offering a hand for her to shake on instinct. “Greetings, dear princess. Forgive my disruption, but your sister here has been rather understanding of my circumstances. I hope we’ll understand each other.” He smiled. Time to flex his poetry. “Some are born to sweet delight, some are born to endless night. Which one do you preside?” The princess blinked, taking a second, before smiling a small bit, though not a happy one. Immediately he could tell he set something off within her, but it was too late to rescind the quote. “Ah... Quite powerful words.” She was polite about it at least. “One is… Charmed, truly. Was that from a work of literature?” Offering an out, it seemed. One that he took with haste. “Indeed. William Blake, though I doubt you know the name.” He reached into his coat, showing off his prized possession with a smile. “I do apologize if I upset you, but I don’t get the opportunity to speak prose casually often.” Griffon snorted, deciding now was the time to materialise on his shoulder, much to his still-weak body’s annoyance. “More like ya don’t stop quoting that book. Didn’t you ever learn it’s bad to lie?” Another snicker, before he yelped as V reached up to gently cuff him on the head. “Quiet.” Luna fell silent again, eyes widening at the sight of Griffon, before narrowing them again. “Thou… Thou has a demon.” Her horn started to spark before Celestia quickly put it to rest by placing a hoof on her shoulder. “S-Sister, that’s-” She just smiled, shaking her head. “I know, Luna. I don’t trust him either, but I do trust V. At least, more than him. He’s given us his word that he won’t hurt anypony. Won’t you, Griffon?” Much like her sister, her eyes hardened at the bird, daring him to say otherwise. Of course, Griffon didn’t voice any complaint. “Yeah, sure. Believe it or not, not every demon’s a soul suckin’ monster. Only most of them.” He shook his feathers a bit. “Besides, V’s my charge, I ain’t gonna abandon him.” “Hm.” V just smiled, staring at the princesses knowingly. “Once again, forgive his brashness. He’s got… Quite a mouth on him.” “And that’s why you love me.” Another snicker met with V closing his beak forcefully. “Gah-Mmph!” Giggles came from the pair, Celestia much louder than Luna, who was more subdued, before they composed themselves once again. “Right, now that introductions are out of the way…” She turned to Luna, smiling. “I won’t keep you from your duties, dear sister. Please don’t hesitate to wake me if you need help.” With nothing more than a nod, Luna turned away from the pair, presumably off to do her duties as asked. As soon as she left though… Celestia turned to her, eyes downcast. “V… I’m afraid you’ll have to watch your words around her for the time being.” She closed her eyes for a moment in thought, before looking at him again. “Up until recently, she was… Cast out. I was forced to banish her to the moon for… Attempting to bring an endless night.” Ah. That made the look make sense. “My apologies.” He decided to pocket the book for the time being. He could read it before bed. “I don’t wish to strain any goodwill I have with you.” Griffon, deciding enough was enough, retreated into his tattoo form for the moment, leaving only the pair there. “Please, don’t think I hold any animosity for a mistake. You simply didn’t know.” She smiled gently, assuringly. “I simply wanted to make sure you didn’t make the mistake again.” He nodded, accepting that. “Then by all means… Don’t let me keep you awake.” He made to step aside, before a hoof was raised. “Before I do…” They stood in silence for a few seconds, before humming. “Maybe she’s running late?” Just as she was about to accept whatever happened, a flash appeared in front of her, eliciting a smile. “Ah, there we are.” Without another word, she unfurled a scroll and began to read. V couldn’t deny his interest as he stepped up beside her Celestia letting him as he began to read in turn. It was… Well, it was a report, definitely, a sort of mini academic note one would send to their tutor to let them know how their studies were progressing, but the subject matter was rather peculiar. “... Friendship report?” He turned to face the Princess, brow cocking. “That seems like a peculiar subject matter.” Not that he could say anything else wasn’t strange about himself, of course. At least he learned the name of said student, Twilight Sparkle. He made a point to note that down in his head. “It’s important for my student to learn the magic of friendship.” With that rather vague response, she closed the scroll, keeping it in her magic for the moment. “Perhaps you could take up the study, Griffon?” All that answered her was a chortle. “Well, I won’t question your student’s choice in subject matter, then.” He ran a hand through his hair idly as he turned to the door. “I’ll be taking my leave for the night.” “Good night, V.” Celestia began humming a tune as she began her walk. “I shall see you with Twilight tomorrow morning.” Tomorrow was going to be an interesting day. Fire. Dark clouds. Horrid noises coming from the distance, and only getting closer. Vergil was scared. He didn’t know where to go, what to do, where Mom was, anything. He just wanted to go home. Yet, he couldn’t. He was too scared to move from the spring rider, practically trembling. Where was Mom? Something landed behind him, growling menacingly. He had to run. He had to. His legs took off in a random direction, barely thinking until he wound up in the cemetery nearby. His head was filled with nothing but adrenaline-filled instinct.All he could think of was running, but he couldn’t any more. He’d cornered himself accidentally, and this wasn’t going to end well for him. “I don’t wanna die…” His voice was quivering with terror, skin pale as bone. “Please…” His eyes darted to home, only to feel his whole mind stop seeing the damage. It was burning. His home was burning. He couldn’t tear his eyes away from the fire, feeling a burning in his chest as he saw it. It filled him with fear, but also… Rage. A deep, primal rage settled in his stomach, fists clenching. This wasn’t right. None of them deserved this. It only got more intense with every passing second, watching the demons close in on his home, and himself. No. Something clicked within him- And everything went white. He awoke silently, sunlight drifting in through the curtains beside him, the only tell of a nightmare being his clenched fists gripping the bedsheets tightly. “Ah…” He took a slow breath, closing his eyes to calm himself down. Just a dream. Just a dream. “Hey, V, you alright?” Griffon’s voice was low as he appeared beside him, keeping just enough distance not to startle him. “What was it this time?” V, now somewhat collected, slowly sat up, only trembling slightly as he did. Still not at full strength, but a couple more nights of rest should do well for him. “The day everything went wrong the first time.” He kept his voice even, curt, clipped. He was not in the mood to think about the past at the moment. “Are we keeping the princesses waiting?” He kicked his legs out to the side of the bed, leaning down to sort out his outfit. “”Uh, no? I don’t think so anyway. Heard some of the guards muttering about the excitement of you bein’ here, but nothing else.” Griffon hopped up beside him, glancing up at V. “Seriously though, V, you ain’t gonna… Lapse again like you did to Dante, are ya?” V just smiled, a hollow, sad facsimile of one, but a smile nonetheless. “What is there to lapse into? There is no trace of Sparda or his legacy in this land.” He stood up slowly, grabbing his book as he did so. Could do with a bit of reading to properly calm his nerves. “The only thing left is a remnant of a broken man.” Griffon had nothing to say about that, simply deciding to slip back onto V. That bird reminded him far too much of Dante sometimes. Once his wares were sorted out, he made for the door, slowly pushing it open. Time to meet this Twilight Sparkle. When he got to the royal dining room, he wasn’t expecting more than Celestia, maybe Luna as well, having there meals, or failing that, no one at all. He could have slept in, or maybe they had their meals at different time than normal, but it didn’t matter either way. As soon as he stepped inside the room, with his two guard escorts stopping at the door, the new faces at the table caught his eye. He supposed the pony was Miss Sparkle, but the other one appeared to be some sort of lizard... He turned his focus to the sole princess in the room, nodding to Celestia as he stepped closer, taking a seat just across from this… Twilight, who evidently hadn’t noticed him until he appeared in front of her. “Ah-Ohmygosh!” Immediately, she sprung to life from where she had been sitting, horn lighting up as she conjured up some kind of paper and quill, rapidly scribbling down some kind of note as she looked him up and down. He glanced at the Princess, quirking a brow as she quietly giggled at her student. Someone was rather excited, though he supposed he couldn’t blame her. “Ahem, Twilight, dear.” As soon as she spoke, Miss Sparkle froze, laughing sheepishly as she set down the paper, before composing herself. “Sorry, I got a little carried away there, heh.” She coughed into her hoof, before smiling at him brightly. “My name is Twilight Sparkle. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mister..?” He smiled. He couldn’t help playing up the mystique again, truly, so he reached for his poems, flipping towards the same quote he used a month ago. “I have no name, I am but two days old…” He frowned mentally. Didn’t quite work as well now that it wasn’t as accurate, but it caught her off guard at least. “Just kidding. You can call me V.” “Ohhhh-kay, V, great to meet you.” Her smile felt a little forced, noting down something again out of what appeared as instinct before she caught herself. “Aheh, sorry again. Is that… Your real name? Do our species just name yourselves after… letters?” He winked. “Well, that’s for you to find out. It’s not fun if all the answers are laid out for you, after all.” With a snap of paper, his book closed as he pocketed it. “I assume your princess has caught you up to speed with myself, then?” He turned to said princess, nodding politely. “As a matter of fact, I was in the middle of it when you came in. Perhaps you can chip in with the explanations now that you’re here?” She smiled gently, lifting her teacup as she took a sip. “It’s no better to hear the details than from the source, after all.” “I suppose you’re correct.” He leaned back into his chair, looking to the last sat at the table. “I don’t suppose you could introduce yourself before we get to it, though?” He hadn’t expected to be called to the stand, so to speak, as he sat there blinking in surprise before collecting his thoughts. “Ah, I’m Spike, Twilight’s number one assistant.” He seemed rather proud of that, closing his eyes and putting a hand to his chest, before hopping up on the table and pointing a claw at him. “And I’ve got my eye on you, mister. No one messes with Twilight on my watch!” He could feel Griffon’s mischief coming before he felt the pull of his energy, appearing right in front of the dragon with a cackle. “Ahahaha, look at this little pipsqueak, thinking he can intimidate anyone, hahaha!” Spike yelped, leaping back in shock as he mocked the little lizard. “Hey, V, you know anything this lizard can beat?” “I’m a DRAGON!” Regaining his confidence, got into the familiar’s face as he glared daggers into his eyes. “And get that through your head, birdbrain-” Before he could continue, he was dragged back by Miss Sparkle’s magic, Griffon only getting a second to gloat before V called him back again. “Alright, Spike, calm down.” Twilight only looked somewhat disturbed by Griffon’s appearance, at least. She must have been told about him, then, otherwise he’d probably have gotten that horn pointed at him. “There’s no need to antagonise anyone. Even if that bird was… Rude.” “Forgive him. He’s rather… Loudmouthed.” He could feel the squawk of indignation, but he ignored it. “Now, where were we? You wanted the full story?” The good thing about having to go through the story again was being able to keep control of the narrative, and he was none too thankful for that. The pair in front of him listened to every detail, only occasionally speaking up to ask a question or two about details from either himself or the princess, before letting him talk once more. If he could pat himself on the back, he was a rather good storyteller, judging from the expressions of the pair. His obsession with poetry had its benefits. Before long though, they were caught up to speed, and that left them with the next step of things. “... And that’s why I assume you’re here.” He paused momentarily, letting her finish her notes, before continuing. “I need your help to find my other familiars. They won’t be of any danger unless provoked, but I’m afraid they’ll be rather… Vulnerable without me.” Unfortunately, the danger part was a lie, but having your only means of defense be targeted for being a danger to the locals wasn’t on his wishlist. The princess nodded, standing up from her seat. “I shall leave you two to talk. I’m afraid I must get started on my duties, but the library is free to you as always, dear Twilight.” She smiled at her, leaning down to nuzzle her, before turning around. “And V, if you need anything, don’t be afraid to ask. I’m happy to assist.” “There will be no need.” He waved a hand casually. “I’m sure Miss Sparkle can help me enough.” Said Miss Sparkle blushed a little at the praise, before lifting her notes and pocketing them in the satchel she had brought. “Then let’s get started. No time to waste!” Following that, the three remaining started their trek to the library. He wasn’t sure how it’d help, exactly, but she seemed adamant that it was the way to go for the moment. She seemed rather… Focused, he supposed. It reminded him of himself. His whole self, not this half of him. Though his focus was much more destructive. “Say, V…” She slowed her trot down to keep pace with him, looking up with a raised brow. “If you don’t mind me asking… What exactly are your familiars? All I know is that they’re bound to you.” Griffon, who had taken flight now that he wasn’t being forcefully constrained to V, cackled at her, flying low to meet her gaze. “Take a guess, Sparky. Your princesses got it on the first try, and you seem like the nerdy type to know that shit, heheheh.” V wished he had his cane at the moment, instead sighing and grabbing him by hand. “Hey, what’s the big idea, Paper Boy?!” “Apologies again.” She didn’t look nearly as startled as last time, at least. “Don’t worry, I was told about how… Brash, he was.” She flashed an understanding smile at him, before looking at the bird in V’s grip, squabbling and squirming in anger. “Hm… That magic energy coming from him isn’t exactly good, is it?” “No kidding…” Spike kept his distance from the pair, glaring at Griffon suspiciously. “I swear, Twilight, he’s gonna claw our eyes out or something.” V smiled, letting Griffon go after a warning look, before looking at the dragon. “Aren’t you supposed to be assisting Twilight in learning about friendship? That doesn’t seem rather inviting.” Spike, to his credit, looked rather abashed at that, rubbing a claw behind his neck as his gaze was drawn to the floor. “Not that the suspicion is unwarranted, of course. You are talking about a demon.” “... A WHAT?!” Twilight leapt back, barely stopping herself from blasting a spell at the bird, judging from the sparks of her horn. “V, what do you mean he’s a demon?! Demons are dangerous! He’s dangerous!” Griffon snorted, perching on V’s shoulder. “Yeah, yeah, just be glad I’m not as bad as some other demons. Seriously, some of ‘em are vicious. Stupid, though.” He leaned down, preening at his wing idly. “Anyway, V, you sure you wanna be revealing that all willy nilly?” “Were you not just goading her on to guess?” Griffon opened his beak, before closing it again, having nothing to say. “That’s what I thought. Besides… She’s an ally. I’m not about to proclaim it to the world, now.” “Right…” Twilight stepped back towards the pair, keeping Spike behind her as she did. “Well, so long as he doesn’t hurt anypony, it’s fine. Just, make sure that doesn’t happen, please?” He nodded, looking pointedly at his familiar. “That won’t happen, Miss Sparkle. He’s loyal to me, and I wish no harm to you. Though we must make haste in finding my other companions, before they grow weaker.” The air felt thick with tension after that. Three hours of searching the library, and nothing to show for it. He had a feeling that’d be the case, but a silver lining was easy access to the history of this civilisation. That became his focus of the time there once it became clear he wouldn’t find anything useful in the pages of the books. Twilight, though… She was running herself ragged, concerning the librarian even more than his presence. “Uh, Miss Twilight, are you-” “Yes, I am, don’t worry about me!” That wasn’t the voice of someone calm. He closed the book about the history of Canterlot, setting it down where he was sitting as he stood up. It was best to see how she was progressing in her search. And to temper her expectations a bit. “Miss Sparkle?” With a hand to the bookshelf to stabilise his legs after being sat down for so long, he turned the corner, taking in the sight of an older pony looking between himself and the purple unicorn throwing books around to and from their shelves, skimming through them at a frightening speed, even for an avid reader like himself. “... Miss Sparkle, there’s no need to work yourself this much. I don’t think you’ll find what we’re looking for here.” She stopped for only a moment, sighing and slumping as she did, before quickly putting the books that were still floating around her back where they belonged. Well, he assumed that at least. “You’re right. I should have known, but I just thought…” She looked downright dejected, standing back up and walking towards him. “I just didn’t want to let you down after you put your hopes in me, that’s all.” A puff of air left his nose as he smiled down at her. “I mean no disrespect, Miss Sparkle, but I doubt you’d find anything about it in these walls. It’s good to read up on the history of this land, but I haven’t seen anything to do with… My familiars.” His eyes glanced to the librarian, before going back to Twilight. “Perhaps you have another location in mind?” Her brows furrowed in thought as she tapped her chin. “... Sorry. All I know are books, but… Maybe my friends could help?” Her eyes lit up, smile back in place. “Spike, would you mind writing to the girls for me?” Said dragon, who up until now was catching breath, stood up straight, pulling a quill and paper. “You got it, boss.” After taking a moment to clear her throat, Twilight began to relay her thoughts. “Dear Applejack, when you get this letter, if you would be so kind as to get the rest of the girls to read this letter, I’d be very grateful.” She took a second, letting Spike catch up. “My trip to Canterlot has taken an interesting turn, and I need your help. I’m currently assisting a new visitor to Equestria find his friends who have appeared somewhere too, and I’m afraid I don’t know how to find them on my own. I’m not sure if he can come back with me, but when I do, I’d like to set up some kind of… Neighbourhood watch.” Spike looked at her quizzically, but jotted it down anyway. “In the meantime, would you please keep an eye out for anything unusual? Something like…” She paused, looking up at V. “Come to think of it, you never told me what your familiars looked like, did you?” “No, I did not.” He contemplated telling her for a moment, before sighing internally. No point making it harder for himself. “Only because you trust your friends. Tell them to keep an eye out for a panther and… A towering construct.” With but a head tilt, she nodded, gesturing to Spike to write what he said down. Once that was sorted, all that was left was sending the letter. Contrary to what he thought, though… FWOOSH “... Did he just set it aflame?” He wasn’t caught off guard too often, but in this case, he wouldn’t blame himself for his reaction looking back. “That seems rather… Counterintuitive.” “Oh, don’t worry. Spike’s flames are special.” V had a lot to learn about this land, that was one certainty here. Applejack had just gotten done with work for the morning when the letter appeared in front of her. Wasn’t often Spike sent her a letter… Once she pulled off the seal, with a little bit of difficulty, she wasn’t used to the darn things, her eyes took in the words. As she read on, her brows furrowed a bit. Looked like this was gonna be a bit of a doozy for Ponyville until they found them. She sped off down the path towards Ponyville. Lunch could wait a bit. “Ah…” It took a humiliating amount of time to gather the strength to walk again, but after a day, enough blood had been spilled to give him that boost he needed to retreat somewhere less open. Even a cave would do for the moment, as unwilling as he was to admit it. He was in no state to walk in the open, in case Dante was on the prowl looking for him. With only a trickle of blood left from his healing chest wound in his wake, he trudged through the woods as quick as he could, reaching a clearing for him to look over. “... That will do.” A bit of smoke was coming from it, but it would do for the moment. Despite his injuries, he was far stronger than he was a day ago, so crossing the forest and climbing the rock mountain was of little challenge to him. He didn’t like being so open, but luck seemed to be on his side for once. The only things to run into him were the wildlife, which served the great purpose of carrying him further along. But a fraction of his former self, but he hadn’t sacrificed everything for nothing in return. Besides… The blood here was just as vitalising as human blood. Much smaller, of course, but in time… He’d usurp even his previous power. Grooooooowl… His fists clenched. Of course, this wouldn’t be an empty cave. No matter. He wasn’t going to trudge through the dirt any more than he had to. He was a king, and nothing, no one, was going to best him again. He would not lose ever again. Not to this beast, not to Dante, not to that mortal, not to his other half… Not to anyone. Author's Note Took me a bit because life is life but hey the funny scoliosis man is making connections yahoo
