Innocentius: From Feeble To Indispensable

Chapters

Act 9: Thoughts Weigh On The Boy's Mind
Prologue: Uh...Can I Get A Supervisor...?
Act 1: A Future Doctor In The Making
Act 2: Healing Fists
Act 3: The Cat Is Out Of The Bag
Act 4: Celestia Assesses Innocentius' Power Pt. 1
Act 5: Celesita Assesses Innocentius' Power Pt 2
Act 6 To Train The Body, Magic & Mind
Act 7: The Pink Fluff & A bit Of Apple Picking
Act 8: School Life Begins Once More

Act 9: Thoughts Weigh On The Boy's Mind

Fall had definitely come in the land of Equestria. The temperature had dropped significantly to the point where ponies started dressing up a little bit more warmly as they went about their days, and the sky had been greying up more. And, of course, the leaves have been falling and changing the usual brown, orange, red, and yellow colors to signify the year's change. And yet, life goes on for everyone in the land just as it should be going.

Innocentius sat in the local tea shop, sipping on a fresh cup of hot green tea while enjoying a sandwich, which he nibbled on while he was reading one of his books. It was getting far too chilly to sit under his favorite tree at the park. But he didn’t have to worry, his spot would be there once spring rolled back around, and he didn’t mind coming here and reading, either. During the cold times of the year, this was his reading place. Plus, it helped that the owner was a dear friend of his mother’s.

Innocentius took another sip of his tea before flipping the page of his book. His yellow eyes fully focused on the words even as he heard the door open and the bell jingle as multiple sets of hooves were heard entering the restaurant. It was a group of foals who he went to school with who seemed like they were a close knit group of friends. The group looked over at Innocentius as they whispered and pointed towards him as they went over to one of the corner tables and gpt settled in their seats.

” You could become one of my students as well if your magic proves useful~.” the words of the princess rang in his mind as he sat there. Should he see about maybe joining her school? After all, self training when it came to the use of his magic could only take him so far. But at the same time, he loved where he was now, especially with Applejack, Redheart, and all the other friends he had made here. But at the same time, that training could benefit not only him but make his parents even more proud of their son. And he wanted to make his family proud of him.

The colt sighed before placing the bookmark in his book and closing it up before placing it in his messenger bag. He drank down the rest of his tea and finished off his sandwich before placing the bits required for his drink and snack onto the table before standing up and stretching his arms out before putting on his white knee length coat and throwing the deep hood over his head before he made his way out into the cold air as the owner of the store bid him a farewell.

As he walked to nowhere in particular, he continued to roll the idea around in his head about possibly going to learn under the princess. Would his stay at the school be as long as her other students since he is only studying one field of magic? Would his friends forget him if he was gone for a certain amount of time..? So many things on the boy’s mind right now. Is a better education truly worth potentially losing the bonds he had created here? For some reason, the fear of losing the bond he had created with Redheart is what bothered him the most, and he couldn’t figure out why that was.

While he sat at the dinner table with his mother and father that night, they could even say something was weighing heavily on the boy’s mind. His mother was about to ask him what was wrong, but his father looked toward her and shook his head “He will let us know when he is ready, honey. Let the boy think it over.” he said to her before looking at his son who was idly pushing the food on his plate. “You don’t have to tell us anything right now, kiddo. But are you alright?” his father asked as he placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

“Hmm? Yeah, yeah, I am alright. Just..well…” he trailed off before pushing his food around a bit more “...what if I had the chance and decided to pursue improving my magical healing powers? And I had to go away to Canterlot for a while to do so? Would you two be okay with that?”. He noticed the look on his father’s face that screamed uncertainty, but it quickly went away as a memory of his own childhood flashed in his mind of his own father telling him that he couldn’t do anything else. He wasn’t going to be like his father and treat Innocentius the same way.

“Honestly, kiddo, if it could only benefit you in the long run, I see no problem with that at all. Sure, your mother and I would miss you very, very much. And you know how much she’d worry about you. But she and I both know that if such an opportunity arises, we would wholeheartedly support your choice if you go or not. The only thing I would only be worried about at all is if you are ready for the rest of the world to know about your gift. After all, your abilities ended up in the wrong hands…” he said as he didn’t even want to think about it.

Innocentius put his fork down on his plate before nodding in agreement “Believe me, Dad. I get it. I really do. But, I suppose what worries me most is the bonds I have formed here. Will the friends I have made lessen because of me leaving for a time? I don’t want to lose those I have grown close to…”. His father blinked a few times but smiled at him reassuringly “If your friendships are as strong as you think they are, then there is no real need to worry, my son. But, speak with them on the matter if it troubles your heart so much. See what they say on the matter, yes?” he said as he reached over again and gently ruffled his son’s mane “Either way, you will be just fine, kiddo. I promise.”.

Innocentius felt comfort in his father’s words and the smile and nod of his mother that came right after. With his appetite now returning, he goes back to eating his food. That night, he met with Redheart on the roof as per usual every other night. The two of them sat there together with her leaning against him, her tail swaying behind her happily as they sat there wrapped up in a big warm blanket so they could stay warm and keep to their tradition. It was now or never to talk with her about it.

“Hey, Red?” he asked, using the nickname he had decided to give her since they had grown so close already “Would…you be upset with me if I decided to leave Ponyville for a time to further improve on my abilities? I wouldn’t be going far, just up in Canterlot. But I imagine that I’d be staying there most of the time during my stay. But I am sure I’ll be back for the holidays and such. I just…don’t want to lose what I have with you or AJ, is all. You two are my closest friends, after all..” he said as he leaned in close to her.

Redheart looked up at him for a moment before letting out a soft sigh “While I would be a little sad to see you go..I know that it won’t be forever, Inno. I’d want you to better yourself so that the life you create for yourself down the road will be a full and happy one. So, either way, you have my full support. But, if you do decide to go, you better bring me back something when you visit for the holidays~.” she playfully demanded, and she bumped into him affectionately. Seems the filly’s feelings have begun to mature for the colt already, even though she knew he was absolutely clueless about that kind of thing. But she didn’t care. Her heart was set on this boy. And she could deal with his cluelessness until the time came.

When he spoke with Applejack on the matter, the same outcome came as well. Even Big Mac, Appleblom, and Granny Smith all agreed with him to push forward. They were just as saddened as Redheart, but they knew he'd be back after his training. With this kind of full bodied support behind him, he would decide to go and see the princess one night to see if her suggestion was actually an invitation disguised as a simple off-handed comment from that day she assessed his abilities.

Once the weekend rolled around, Innocentius stood atop his roof when he knew his parents were in bed and asleep. He had on his coat and scarf that Rarity had made for him. Once he wrapped it around the lower half of his face, he lifted up into the air and soared off into the direction of the castle, going full throttle in his flight ability, all while Red watched him from the window. She knew where he was going “This is for his future…” she said as she placed a hand against the glass.

Innocentius soon flew his way over the city of Canterlot and into the castle grounds, soaring past the patrols both on the ground and in the air straight toward the tallest tower, knowing full well that was where the princess would preside over the evening. He soon lands on the balcony, seeing that there is light coming from the curtained doors before knocking on them and waiting patiently, even has the pegasi guards close in behind him. “Stop right there!” they shouted as they drew their weapons.

Just as they were about to run him through, he turned his head and lifted his glass before sending a quick laser to their weapons, immediately rendering them ineffective before turning his gaze back to the opening door, seeking the princess peeking out before opening the door fully to see who decided to visit her at the time. When she saw who it was, she immediately swung the door open with an open mouth smile before stopping the guards from approaching “Leave him be, guards. He is fine to come and visit me.” she said as she held up a hand to stop their approach “B-But your highness…” one of them protested. “He is free. To come and see me,” she stated in a deadpan tone before sending them away.

She then turns her attention back down to Innocentius, who pulls his scarf down from his face before bowing slightly, “Sorry to disturb your evening, princess. But I figured this could be the only time I could speak with you directly without having to do some kind of paperwork or wait for hours to do so. But do you have time to speak with me? If now’s not a proper time, I can come back another time.”. Celestia shook her head and motioned for him to come inside “Nonsense! Please come in, young one. Get out of the cold!” she insisted as she placed a hand on his back and ushered him inside before closing the door behind them.

He’d be lying if he said the outfit that she was wearing right now didn’t make him blush. A form fitting robe that covered her fully but definitely showed off all the curves she had, a white robe with dark purple fur lined trimming. She even had her regalia off as well, having gotten comfortable for the evening. She motioned him over to sit in the chair across from her in front of her fireplace before speaking up “Now then, what is it you needed to see me for?” she asked as she rested her hands in her lap as she folded her legs over one another.

Innocentius averted his eyes for a moment before lifting his head up to meet her gaze “Well…I remember you saying something to me about being taught by you should my magic prove useful. Was that just an off handed comment? Or were you hoping I’d inquire further about asking you to help hone my magic more..??” he asked as he rested his own hands in his lap. Celestia’s eyebrows raised for a moment before she slowly smiled in return at his question. “Ooooh? You thought about it, have you? Well, if you wish for me to help improve your magic capabilities, I would be happy to take you under my teachings. But, I am not the one you have to convince, child. It is the board of directors you have to convince to let join. I have seen your skills firsthand, but you must go through the same thing my other students have to get there.”.

Innocentius nodded as he didn’t expect any kind of special treatment, nor would he have accepted it in the first place. “I understand completely. In fact, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I wish to show what I can do. I have been doing all I can to help improve my magical capabilities on my own, but I think I have plateaued for now. So, if you can help me improve my magic healing even more, I will happily attend your classes. And yes, I have gotten the full support of my friends and family should this come to happen.” he said, reassuring her what she was about to ask him.

Celestia nodded with a smile of approval before clasping her hands together “Well then, that settles that then~. Is there anything else you wish to ask me for the evening? or…?” Inocentius thought about it for a moment before asking, “Is there…some form of on campus housing for students whose family is a ways away? My…folks don’t know about my flying abilities, and I don’t think they are ready yet. Otherwise I wouldn’t be asking.”.

Celestia nodded a couple of times as she answered, “Oh yes! Students who aren’t living in Canterlot now are required to stay on campus. But don’t you worry, the dorms here are VERY spacious and come with all the amenities of living. Three square meals are prepared each day in the cafeteria, and even a personal kitchen in your dorm should you wish to prep your own food. And, of course, the meals prepped in the cafeteria are free to all students. And the holidays are when students are free to return home to course.” she said as she explained a few more things to him as well.

Innocentius nodded as he listened carefully. It sounded pretty nice. Too nice to pass up even. He would think about this decision a little longer, though. After all, this was going to be a big change in his life. He then stood up from the chair he was sitting in and started to make his way to the door “I think…I will give this a shot. Though I imagine this won’t happen mid school year. So I imagine I have until the end of summer to make this decision?” he asked as he reached up for the handle of the door.

Celestia nodded in response “Indeed, you have plenty of time to decide. Come see me anytime between now and then to give me your answer. Personally, I hope you fully decide on a ‘Yes.’ I believe that many could benefit from your unique power, Innocentius. I truly do.”. The way she said that and the use of his name, she really seemed to mean it. He simply nodded before opening the door and stepped out. “Get home safely, understand?” she said sternly before the door closed. He nodded again before gently shutting the door fully, then took off in flight back home.

Author's Note

Eh, I was trying to not give in to sending him to an 'upscale school'. But then I got the coolest idea. And no, I am not telling. :p

May the darkness grant you peace.

Prologue: Uh...Can I Get A Supervisor...?

All was dark for a few moments once the young man closed his eyes as his family stood around him as he lay in his hospital bed. The doctors and nurses had done everything to reduce the pain that had racked his body over the short sixteen years that he had fought to stay alive. His last thoughts flowed through his mind as he thought of his mother who had been with him the whole way, the friends that he was able to make during the times that he was able to go to school and do normal things every boy could do at his age, and the super hot raven haired and green-eyed nurse the the enormous and rather bouncy chest that was his nurse for the longest time who definitely helped with his long and dreadful stays at the hospital.

“Man…I didn’t even get a chance to kiss a pretty girl, let alone lose my virginity. This is fucking weak…” he thought to himself as he seemed to float in an endless dark void for a moment before his soul was suddenly carried forward into a tunnel of light. He suddenly felt so much lighter, and the pain was completely gone from his body before he landed on his feet softly in front of a solid white door with gold accents along it. He blinked a few times before looking around a few times before slowly approaching the door, the solid marble flooring which should normally be cold against his bare feet felt rather…warm and comfortable instead. He hesitantly reached up and knocked a couple of times on the door.

After knocking a few more times, a rather soft and alluring voice called out to him that bringing a rather warm and fuzzy feeling over his form “Please, come in young man.” said the voice before the boy stepped into the bright entryway. He lifts a rather thick and bony arm to shield his eyes a bit as he carefully makes his way into the room which had a rather large mahogany desk and a rather tall female figure sitting behind it in a large red velvety chair. The boy looked at her then at the desk and suddenly whispered “Mahogany…” in a low tone of voice. Damn Team4Star and their influence on the youth.

The shrouded female figure cleared her throat softly, getting the young man’s attention “Heinrich Schwarzschild, age sixteen years. Passed away due to complications from cancer. You gave a strong and valiant fight, my dear. But…it just seems that this time, fate was not on your side…I truly do feel for you. As you never really got to have the joys of a normal boy’s youth. So, in accordance with the big man’s rules, you are allowed to start over in a new world and you can take one thing that you desire with you. It could be literally anything you desire. Magical power, a complete understanding of the world’s knowledge, the sky’s the limit. But, like I said. Only one thing.”

Heinrich blinked a few times before letting all this register before asking “So…do I have a choice to just skip reincarnation and head right to paradise where all the cuties and hotties are? Because…I am totally cool with that.” he said in his german accent, the boy having been from Germany. The shrouded woman blinked a few times before responding “Your way of thinking is rather…mature for your age..” she said as she then watched him throw his hands up in slight frustration. “Well, when you have such an attractive woman who is your nurse as you go in and out of hospitals, a young man tends to really develop a taste for beautiful women quickly…” he said as he then went back to the subject at hand “Soooo…paradise full of bombshell beauties for meeee?” he asked with a smile and arched brow.

The woman let out a sigh of slight frustration before placing the palm of her hand on her face. Heinrich didn’t really appreciate her tone on the subject and crossed his arms “Hey...I didn’t ask for the life I was given. Alright? Don’t get me wrong, I am thankful for my loving parents and friends who were with me the whole way. But you gotta understand, lady. Life was a bit harder for me than most folks who had normal lives. I don’t think I am being too demanding..” he said with a narrowed gaze.

The shadowed woman let out a sigh and slammed a hand upon her desk “I understand that, but that's not how things work around here! Now then, I don’t have time to just sit here and debate with you! Now, decide on what you want so I can send you off to your next life for heaven’s sake!” she said as she raised her voice at him. How very unprofessional of her! Heinrich scoffed slightly before rubbing his chin in thought at what he could desire in his next life. He thought, and thought. It wasn’t until a rather devious thought popped up into his head before he noticed the notepad and pen atop her desk.

“Very well, I will comply so I can get out of your SUPER busy schedule,” he said in a mocking tone before walking up and grabbing said pen and the notepad before writing on it. He started to hum a little bit, no particular tune, just knowing that he was absolutely about to wreck this bitch’s day with loads of paperwork “Yell at me. Will you?” he thought to himself before placing the pen back on the table and tearing out the sheet of paper before handing it off to her “I desire to acquire everything on this single list to be given to me upon my first breath into this new world with no negative repercussions to me, my family, friends, possible lover, or patients. That is the one thing I desire.” he said with a wicked smile forming on his face while folding his arms over his chest.

The woman was about to protest, holding up a finger as she looked over the document he had slammed on her desk in front of her. But he was absolutely right. The way he had worded it was absolutely within the proper parameters of what was explained to him. “Y-You can’t..this is…you little..” she said as she huffed and puffed as she looked down at him. “Will you be finishing any of these sentences? Or will you be granting my ONE desire?” he asked with that smug look on his face still. The shadowed woman reaches forward and presses a button on what appears to be some kind of conference phone “C-Can I get a supervisor…please?” she asked through her teeth, rather annoyed that a human of all beings pulled one over on her.

As she and two others spoke behind the curtains that surrounded them, Heinrich couldn’t help but overhear their conversation “What’s the big deal?! He followed the rules that are set in place, we just need to be more thorough when we bring it up at the next breakfast meeting next month! Given that this young man had all the time in the world to develop such out of the box thoughts, it's no wonder he found a hole!” said one of them. “I mean, the people of the world he is being sent to will benefit more from him than himself by leaps and bounds! If I didn’t know any better, I’d say he wanted to do this for others than himself!” said the other.

The one whom he had been dealing with let out a growl of frustration before stomping her foot “You two don’t get it, a lowly human just got the better of a celestial being, and you are completely fine with it?!” she said loud enough that Heinrich could hear every single word “A lowly human huh? I will be sure to make sure this memory of our lovely time together reaches your bossman when I reach out to him on my way out. How’s that sound, sweetheart?” he asked as they must have forgotten he was literally right there within earshot.

The female being who had been sassy to him suddenly changed her attitude real quick when she heard him make that threat, slowly turning to him with a more soft and gentle tone “Very..well. If you promise to keep this whole ordeal from the higher ups, we can forget this all happened and I can send you on your way~.” she said before taking a large ornate stamp and slammed it down with the word ‘APPROVED’ on it before it disappeared and was sent into the billions of archives for safekeeping.

Heinrich nodded with a smile before he started to glow slightly before a white light appeared below him. Seems it was time for him to go and begin his new life with the list of perks and abilities he had requested in the single item. Looking towards no specific direction, he smiled with a chuckle “To the author and the reader. Get ready, I am going to be doing my best to live this new life as best as possible, but I am definitely going to be having my fun in messing with you all…”

(Oh god damnit….he fucking picked breaking the fourth wall as one of the items on the list?!?!)

“That’s right! And unless you wanna come up with a better idea after all that brainstorming, you are stuck with me now!” he said before following through the light and cackling like a madman on the way down and into his new life. He continues to lazily fall further and further as he then gazes up “So author? Where exactly are you sending me anyway?” he asks.

(Well, since you can break the fourth wall now, you will be pleased to know I am sending you to a fun little universe that involves anthropomorphic pastel colored ponies. Which I am sure you know as My Little Pony. And guess what? You might be able to break the fourth wall, but this is MY story. You aren’t Discord. So MEH! Now, get on with your new life.)

“Oh well fuck you too then. Not like I wanna write your work for you anyway! Now shut up and get to work those fingers of yours and make it a good one. Your work thus far has been pretty subpar. Don’t even know why the people who read your lame ass stories even bother! Do you seriously have nothing better to do?” Heinrich said before he was suddenly swallowed up by darkness.

It wasn’t until he slowly opened his eyes once more that he felt..rather small. He could hear voices as they started as muffled but soon became clear. His gaze shifted through what appeared to be a familiar setting, a sterile white hospital room. Did he somehow come back to life..? No, that could be the case. He lifted up his hands as they appeared to be rather small…and covered in white fur it seemed. He blinked a few times before tilting his head up to see a white furred unicorn mare with a long and lush silver mane with blue eyes. He knew right away that this was his mother by how she was staring at him with an exhausted, but loving smile.

Heinrich..or rather Innocentius as both his new mother and father had unanimously named him right away looked towards his father who had reached out and picked him up with a proud smile on his face. The father was wearing a doctor’s coat and wore a badge on the left breast pocket. It would seem that one of the other items on his list was honored. Being born into a family that had at least one parent in the medical field. Would his mother be as well? That was for him to find out later. But the stallion in question was a tall and brawny one but had the most gentle of green eyes and a smile that could settle even the most distraught of patients with solid black fur and a long slicked back black mane and tail with a unicorn horn sticking out of his forehead.

Innocentius was placed back down into his mother’s arms before he was gently rocked in the embrace “Innocentius..my sweet baby boy..” his new mother cooed before kissing his forehead. “Hmmm…seems I don’t have my voice quite yet…but I can at least understand what they are saying as if they were speaking my own language from my last life. And I seem to have returned all my memories from my past life. And I have new medical knowledge it seems..quite a lot of it. Looks like those two items made it as well. I won’t know about the others till I get the chance to try them though. But..I don’t think now is a good time…” he thought to himself.

He turns his head to gaze at the mirror next to where his new mother lay with him in her arms. He sees that he has been born as a unicorn himself, the white fur he knew about already, but from what he could tell, his mane and tail were a solid black like his father’s. But what really caught his attention was the rather piercing yellow eyes that gazed back at him which seemed to have a noticeable natural glow to them. “Hmm…that’s a little spooky..” he thought to himself again before closing his eyes and getting rather sleepy very quickly.

“Well, I was just born...I’d imagine being rather exhausted….being forced out of my mother like that. Time for a nice long nap..” he thought to himself once more before falling into a deep sleep. This was his new life now. The son of a doctor who would follow in his father’s footsteps. Even if the father himself didn’t know it yet. As Innocentius had made sure that he would be the one saving people instead of them saving him. But at the same time, he was going to live his new life to the fullest and do the things he never got to do in his former life. He was going to make this second chance his for the taking.

((Yeah, only because I am allowing it to happen. You know, I didn’t have to make this story happen. I have two other stories I should be working on right now. But nooooo, my mind said I needed to create a snarky fourth wall breaking character who also has a heart of gold and will be one of the greatest doctors and healers ever. Sometimes I wonder why I torment myself with even more workload…)

Author's Note

Throwing a few things I have wanted to try in one story. Hope you all enjoy it.

May the darkness grant you peace.

Act 1: A Future Doctor In The Making

It has been ten years since Innocentius was reborn into this colorful world of pastel ponies. And he has been living his life to the fullest, experiencing things he never could as a sickly child. He spends most of his time outside exploring the town of Ponyville when he isn’t held up in school, another thing that he is getting to enjoy that he never got to in his last life. And best of all, his family is just as loving and caring as his last one. The colt was definitely in a much better place now, and living his second chance to the fullest.

Innocentius sat under a large tree in the middle of Ponyville Park with a book in his hand, his glasses resting on his snout as his yellow eyes leisurely scrolled across the pages of a rather compelling mystery novel he had borrowed from the Golden Oak Library of which he stopped by every week to pick up a new book after he had finished another. It seems that even old desires never leave when reborn with your former memories intact. Even now with a body that is young and healthy, the young one still enjoys escaping into worlds crafted by others.

He flipped over to the next page before three shadows got closer, eventually blocking out his light before he looked up to see the three older colts who gave him a rough time almost every day. It seems that bullying wasn’t a foreign concept to this world either. And these three boys have seen Innocentius as a weakling for a year since they started school together. But, that wasn’t the case. Innocentius just didn’t see any reason to waste his precious time on these three.

He simply sighed and closed his book after placing a bookmark in it and stood to his hooves “What do you guys want? Don’t you have anything else better to do than to bother me?” he asked as he looked up at them with a narrowed unamused gaze. The first colt walked up to him and shoved him against the tree before holding him there “There is no teacher around to stop us from giving you a hard time now, freak.” he said as he then snatched Innocentius’ glasses from his face and tossed them aside, leaving the colt semi visually impaired.

He tried to reach out to grab his glasses, but the older boy was too quick and had the advantage on the younger colt “Oh real nice. Picking on a younger pony with three to one. Very brave.” he said before the other two closed in with their leader. They all three started beating on Innocentius before a lasso flew over the group and pulled them away from the now curled up colt “Y’all ought be ashamed of yourselves! Gangin’ up on somepony who chooses not to fight back!” shouted an orange furred and blonde maned filly who made her way in front of Innocentius before helping him back up to his hives and dusting the dirt off him.

“Thanks, AJ…I am fine though..” he said as he carefully walked about to find his glasses. It wasn’t until he felt her hand grab him and placed his glasses into it. He offered her a smile before slipping them back on, his vision becoming normal once more “You sure you are alright, Inno? It looked like they got a few good swings in before Ah stepped in.” she said before placing a comforting hand upon his shoulder. The filly known as Applejack was one of the few friends he had in this world. While a year older than Innocentius, she saw him as a dear friend and companion. Plus, she admired his rather vast medical knowledge.

“Yeah, they just decided to come and cause trouble for me today simply because they saw me. It's how it always goes.” he said as he looked up at the slightly taller filly “I just wish they’d go bother somepony else for a change. They are just going to continue to make my life miserable the next time they see me though. But, I still appreciate your help nonetheless.” he said as he and Applejack walked off together, the filly delivering a solid kick to the leader of the three boys before leaving them tied up in the rope she had lassoed them with. “OW! Hey, let us out of here!” he shouted toward the two of them as they continued to walk away, chatting and ignoring the bullies.

As they talked and walked, Applejack just smiled and listened as Innocentius spoke about the book he was reading and the medical findings he had been learning from his father’s books as well. She loved his accent most of all. She wouldn’t know that it was German, but she loved it all the same. It made him seem more..knowledgeable one might say? Like one of those scientist that do great work in the world or something like that. That, and to her, he was a rather adorable little guy. And she felt she had a role in protecting him. Of course, not that he really needed any protection. But, it wasn’t quite to right time to show off some of his new abilities quite yet.

“So, are you gonna show up for the ciderfest we are havin’ next week? Everypony is goin’ to be linen’ up for a mih ful whenever we start dishin’ it out.” said the farm girl as she was rather excited for it to all begin, as it definitely helped with the revenue around the farm to keep it afloat. Not that they had issues to begin with since they were the main distributor of apples for miles. Innocentius thought about it for a moment before nodding “I think my mother and father actually are taking a couple of days off during next week. So, I’d imagine we’d show up together. So yeah, I think IO will show up this year. Save a mug for me will you?” he asked as he looked up at her with a smile.

She wouldn’t outright admit it, but he was the sweetest boy she had met. He was always so polite around her and her family when he came to visit. And he treated Aplebloom like she was his own flesh and blood. Even he and Big Mac got along quite nicely. There was always this polit unspoken bond between them. They’d simply exchange glances, nod, and then smile at one another. He was practically a member of the family to them at this point.

As they were walking along, a yellow furred pegasus flew over them holding what appeared to be an injured animal of sorts as she landed in front of the veterinarian’s place of work. She bangs on the door with her free hand as she cradles the bleeding creature with her other arm, blood dripping down her front and tears flowing freely from her eyes as she tries to get the attention of the pony inside, but to no avail as they vet was out on personal business “Please, somepony, anypony! I don’t care who! Save my friend!” she cried out as she fell to her knees and buried her face into the creature as she held it close.

Innocentius stood there as he watched the filly cry out in desperation. He squeezed his fists firmly before running over to the filly before kneeling down and placing his medium sized black bag next to him after removing it from his shoulder “Let me see them…” he said as he placed a soft medium sized sheet on the ground, folding it up to comfortably accommodate the small creature that just so happened to be a tabby cat that had a rather large gash on its side “How did this happen?” he asked as he began the pull out medical thread and a sterile needle along with a green herbal paste he had handmade himself that acted as a disinfectant and wound cleaner.

The yellow filly was hesitant for a moment, she didn’t know who this colt was or what he had planned. But it seemed that he was the only one willing to provide any help at this point “A-A wild..t-timber wolf got him…while he was..pl-playing out in the field..” she said between sobs. Applejack came up next to the filly and kneeled beside her, placing a comforting arm around her “Don’t you worry Flutters. Inno here is gonna make sure your little buddy gets all fixed up. He has helped with the animals on the farm before, so this is a pie of apple pie for him..” she said as she tried to reassure her friend.

Innocentius looked towards Fluttershy “You are the one who can speak with animals yes? Take your little friend’s paw and let him know that it is going to burn for a few seconds. But it is going to help seal the wound and keep it from festering.” he said as he opened up the herbal mixture. She nodded and gently held the feline’s paw before talking to him. The cat looked up at Innocentius before closing his eyes, readying himself for the pain.

With one quick pour, the solution began to spread over the wound. The cat let out a painful yowl as it struggled to stay still, squirming and kicking as the pain seared through its body. Soon enough, Innocentius began using the medical thread to seal the wound up with expert precision, making sure that it was tightly sealed so that the herbs could do their work and speed up the healing process. The felon's squirming and kicking slowed down to the point where it was finally starting to relax. Innoentius let out a sigh of relief and wiped his forehead clean of sweat before sitting on the back of his hooves “He’s going to make it. The little guy just needs plenty of bed rest and some good food. I recommend putting a cone around his neck for a few days. You don’t want him to pull those stitches out.” he said before placing his tools back into his bag.

Fluttershy scooped up her feline friend carefully and cradled him to her chest. She gazed at Innocentius like he was the one who actually saved her instead of the cat, those big teal eyes watering as a smile of gratitude formed over her muzzle “Thank you…so so very much…” she said before wrapping a free arm around him in a hug, quiet sobs of joy could be heard as he reached up and gently rubbed her back “As my father always tells me “If you have the power and capability to save a life, you do what you can to do so.” He is one of the doctors of this fine town after all.” he said as he pushed his glasses up to settle more comfortably on his muzzle.

“You know, you really are somethin’, Inno. Ah have always wondered how you obtained such knowledge of the medical field. It has really impressed me.” she said as she offered him a smile of approval. Innocentius smiled in return “Would you believe me if I said it was something I acquired being reborn from my former life?” he asked knowing full well she wouldn’t believe the truth even if he told it to her.

The farm girl blinked a few times before letting out a hearty laugh “Yeah, right. That’s a good one. Well, either way, I am glad that you can do what you are able to do. You are gonna make a great doctor one day. Ah know that much.” she said as she stood up on her hooves and watched as her friend walked away with her feline friend after thanking Innocentius once more. “C’mon. Let’s go to Sugarcube Corner. Ah wanna get you a little somethin’ for what you did for my friend there.”. He perked his ears up at the idea of something sweet to eat after such a stressful situation. That definitely sounded like a good idea.

As they walked, Applejack couldn’t help but ask the question that had been weighing on her mind ever since she watched him tend to the injured animal “Inno..um..why did you use your healing ability on the cat rather than doin’ it the old fashion way? He would have been fine right away if you had done so…” she asked as she rubbed the back of her head. She knew that he didn’t like to use it very much. At least, not in public. “Well, I suppose that I didn’t see the injury that severe. You and your family are the only ones who know that I can do that. And I wish to keep that ability as little known as possible. Until I reach an age where I can defend myself and prevent it from being used improperly. I can imagine that there are nations in this world that would love to have healing capabilities like myself. After all, medicines and surgeries can only go so far if the body is damaged beyond repair..”.

A year ago, there was an accident on the Apple Farm. Applejack, Inncentius, and Big Mac were playing in the orchard. Big Mac was climbing up one of the trees to grab a rather enticing looking apple that wouldn’t come down when he kicked it, but he had lost his footing and fell to the ground and broke his arm. They couldn’t move him or else the bone would have broken even further to the point where it was sticking out of the skin. Inncentius was afraid at first, but he grew the courage to use his healing ability because a new friend was in dire need of his help. So with his ‘healing hands’ ability, he healed both the bone and the wound as if they had never happened. Not even a scar was left behind. Of course, the bone being forced back into place by the magic was painful, but the pain faded soon after the process was complete.

“Mac still thinks he owes you a great debt from that day, ya know. You ever gonna let him repay it?” asked Applejack as she playfully hip checked him as they walked to the bakery. He smiled and gently pushed her in retaliation “It's not a debt if I don’t desire anything in return. Your brother has helped me out a few times himself. As far as I am concerned, we are even.” he said before pushing open the door to Sugarcube Corner. They both walk up to the counter before looking up at the young couple who operated the place.

“One vanilla cupcake with buttercream frosting, please. Our resident little future doctor here helped Fluttershy out today with one of her little fuzzy friends,” said Applejack before reaching into her shorts pocket and pulling out a couple of bits for the snack. Ms. Cake smiled and reached over, gently ruffling Innocentius’ mane “My goodness. You are certainly doing your father proud, young stallion. Keep it up and you’ll become more of a better doctor than he is~.” she said with a nod.

“Now now, Ms Cake, if he heard you say that, you’d be hurting his feelings,” he said before they all had a nice little laugh at that before she reached down into the cabinet and pulled out the fresh cupcake that was ordered. Applejack knew quite a few things about Inncentius, including his favorite kind of cupcake He had one other friend who unfortunately he rarely got to see because he lived all the way up in Canterlot, a colt who aspired to become the next royal guard captain. From the letters he received, his sister was in some kind of special gifted class being taught by this country’s leader.

Perhaps one day, they will get to see each other again soon and tell each other their stories over a meal. But for now, it was just him and Applejack.

Author's Note

Gonna work on another chapter or two before releasing this one out into the wild. Of course, you all won't see this note until I actually do post it. lol

May The darkness grant you peace.

Act 2: Healing Fists

It was just another bright and sunny day as Innocentius and his family walked out of line with their mugs of ice cold cider in hand. He took a long sip of the sweet beverage as he walked around the area where the other ponies were hanging out and drinking their own mug. The colt smiled and waved to the adult who greeted him and even a few other foals did as well. He did his best to talk with all the ponies who came up and started a conversation with him but, it seemed that he was a rather shy young stallion when it came to initiating a conversation first. He'd need to break that habit if he planned to be a great doctor like his father.

As he was making his way toward his mother and father who were talking to some other adults, he was suddenly tripped by the leader of the group of bullies that always seemed to show up at the worst times. This was even more so when the still nearly fully mug of cider went flying and spilled all over the ground in front of him as he fell face first into the ground. The older colt snickered as a few of the other adults and children caught what had happened. Innocentius pushed himself up onto his hands and knees as tears nearly started to pour from his ear.

At this point, the only thing that he could hear was the sound of his own blood pumping through his ears and the mocking sound of the older colt’s laughter. Innocentius’ fingers dug deep into the ground before he slowly got to his hooves “I have had it..I am so tired of your cruelty toward me you fucking degenerate….” he said before his fists started to shake in fury as a platinum fiery aura started to flow around them along with his horn and eyes. He wasted no time in turning toward the colt and rearing back and slamming his fist into his right cheek as hard as he could, sending to colt to the ground with a cry of pain.

Innocentius leaped onto the colt and began punching him over and over before his father moved in quickly to pry the angered colt from his bully, the boy getting in a few more good licks before his father finally got them separated “What in the world is wrong with you, Innocentius?!” his father asked in shock. Never had he ever taught his son to be such a violent child in all the time he was raising him. “He is the one who has been bullying me with his group of adolescent friends for the past year! And now he tripped me and made me spill my drink. I am not going to take his abuse anymore!” he shouted as he fought against his father’s grip, the large stallion wondering how his son was giving him this much trouble physically as he was still just a child. It was as if he was fighting a fully grown muscular stallion.

As he continued to fight with his son, the doctor took note of his son’s bully’s condition. He was lying there racked with pain, but he noticed that there were no bruises or any kind of signs of damage. It looked like there was no evidence at all. It looked like he had just simply fallen over. The doctor pulled Innocentius away along with his mother who looked positively embarrassed from what had just transpired. However, the shimmering around Innocentius’ hands, horn, and eyes did not escape his father’s notice.

After they had gotten a good distance away from the major crowd, Innocentius’ father gave him a serious look before firmly placing his hands on his shoulder and kneeling down in front of him “Kiddo..? What was that back there?” he asked in a leveled and calm manner. Innocentius lowered his gaze down to the ground and clenched his fists a bit “He had it coming, Father. None of the adults seemed to do anything about him and his stupid friends bullying me. So I took matters into my own fists. I am not the only victim of their bullying either…” he said as he got ready for his father to skuld him for what he had done. But, that wasn’t what his father was asking about it seems.

“That’s not what I am talking about, son. I saw how fiercely you were beating on him. I thought by the time I would make it to pull you off him, he was going to be as bloody as a trauma patient. However, there is no evidence of any kind of trauma on that boy at all, yet he was lying there in pain like he had been run over by a runaway wagon…” said his father as he firmly gripped his shoulders “Son…I want you to be honest with me. Did you use some kind of healing magic while you were beating that boy senseless?” he asked with a slightly arched brow.

Innocentius went quiet for a moment before simply nodding. That was one of the items he included in his list before he was reincarnated here. He wanted to be able to use his healing abilities in any way possible. That even included offensively and violently. His father blinked a few times before removing his hands from his son’s shoulder and rubbing at the back of his head. He wasn’t sure if he should really punish Innocentius for what he did. He fought and stood up against a bully but, on the other hand, he got violent which is very unbecoming of a future doctor. But also, he didn’t exactly leave behind any injuries But at the same time, he still gave that boy a proper beat down to the point where he could still feel the pain of the blows. The stallion’s mind was scrambling for the appropriate response to this!

“While I am proud of you that you stood up for yourself. Trust me, I had the same issue when I was your age. I was bullied because I had my head in the books most of the time. But at the same time, with abilities like yours, they aren’t meant to be used like that. Causing pain while at the same time healing that injury can cause some mental damage that is more harmful than the actual physical damage that would be left behind itself. As the body has no injury, the pain still exists.” he explained as he tried to give a proper lecture to his son.

Innocentius looked down at his hands for a moment then back to his father “Dad, I understand that you are a doctor and it looks bad on your end with what happened today, but you gotta understand that I will not stand idly by if someone else brings unprovoked harm to someone else or myself. I don’t know if you know about the Hippocratic Oath that some certified doctors follow. But I promise you that I will be one of those doctors who follow that oath to the letter. So yes, I will be beating sense into those who get physical with me or others who I happen to see needing my help.” he said as he stood his ground.

His father tilted his head slightly at his answer “How is it that you know about the hypocritical oath? I don’t remember teaching you that at all. Have you…been reading my books in my study..?” he asked thinking that is the only way he could know about that at such a young age. “You could say that, yeah..” Innocentius said as he let his father believe that he obtained his current knowledge through his father’s books.

His father looked towards his mother for a moment as if saying “This kid is a little too smart for his own good. Before looking back at him “You know, kiddo..it's the way you act more like an adult than someone your age that worries me sometimes. I remember when you fell one time and hit your head that you didn’t cry once. Or how when your mother or I said no to something you asked, you never got upset or fussy about it.” he said as he got back up onto his hooves. “Would you rather I’d have been some spoiled and privileged little kid who goes around thinking that they can do whatever they want and to whoever they want then?” Innocentius asked with an arched brow.

His father chuckled shaking his head “Well no, but seeing you act out like this…well, I suppose it is a bit of a relief. You always seemed to act too mature for your age, and it just worried your mother and me, that’s all. But as long as you don’t go around mindlessly beating up on people simply because you can heal them at the same time, I suppose we can let this one incident slide. Though, I am sure that the boy’s parents are going to want to talk to us about it. Though there were witnesses around. So your side of the story will be favored from their son’s.”.

Innocentius realized that if there were witnesses, they might have noticed exactly how he was beating on the bully and healing him at the same time. He curses to himself in his mind before looking up back to his father “And here I was trying to conceal my ability until I was older. Hopefully the other adults didn’t realize what I was doing…”. His father understood his son’s worry. There weren’t very many ponies in history that could do what Innocentius could do. For their son’s sake, they’d make sure to not tell any other ponies. It would be especially bad if Princess Celestia had found out.

A couple of days later, the parents of the bully and Innocentius’ parents met up in the park for a talk about what had happened. It seemed to be that while at home, the bully portrayed himself as the perfect, well behaved son that was expected of him, but was a cruel and mean bully who went around not only giving Innocentius a hard time, but a few other foals as well, be it a colt or filly. Innocentius sat there before clearing his throat as the adults tried to decide on what to do about the situation. “You know, there is a military school in Canterlot that deals with cases like this. Perhaps send him there for a semester or two. If anything, it will straighten him out and discipline him into a more upstanding colt. Just a suggestion..” he said as he watched his bully’s eyes grow as wide as dinner plates at the suggestion.

“Hmmmm…military school you say?” asked his father as he rubbed his chin in thought. “Yes, sir. It's a far better alternative than having him land in juvy and then become a problem for the authorities should he keep getting out of line,” said Innocentius as he kept a straight face the whole time. The bully’s father and mother mumbled to themselves for a moment while the bully looked at Innocentius with a death glare. Innocentius blinked a few times with a tilt of his head before straightening back up and adjusting his glasses in triumph as the bully’s parent both decided on sending him away.

“Wel, hopefully when you return from your stay in Canterlot, you will have learned a little humility and become a much more polite colt,” he said as he got up and walked away with his parents who had gotten up as well, a devious smile forming across his muzzle and his eyes narrowing as he had gotten rid of his bully..at least for the time being. Who knew if he’d return with a vengeance. But, the unicorn would be ready for that if that was the case.

Things were going wonderfully for the next couple of months. The other two bullies who had been the main one’s lackeys stopped bothering Innocentius, the young stallion could return to just spending his days reading his books and spending time with the few friends he had. Everything was going wonderfully for the colt.

One day, he was walking along the road heading back to his home before he heard the sound of flapping wings heading his way. He looked up to see the soft spoken filly he had helped with her feline friend a couple of months back approaching him with a small tied up purple sack in her arms. He stopped in his tracks before she landed in front of him, averting her gaze slightly, but quietly offering the bag to him with her head lowered “F-For you. For helping my friend…” she said with a shy smile as she hid behind her long mane.

IInnocentius blinked a few times before reaching forward and taking the gift graciously, but not before noticing a bunch of bandages around her fingers and opening up the bag to see what looked to be some VERY well made butterscotch cookies. And they looked and smelled quite fresh as well. “My goodness. You made these for me..?” he asked in slight surprise as he had never received a gift from another filly before other than Applejack.

Fluttershy nodded as she placed her hands behind her back and lightly dug her hoof into the ground. Innocentius gave her a smile in return before picking up one of the cookies. There we all misshapen but that didn’t bother him in the slightest. He popped one of them into his muzzle and chewed on it before swallowing and nodding in approval “I can tell you put a lot of hard work into these. Thank you very much, Fluttershy.” he said as he reached up and placed a hand upon her head and patted her gently. She flinched a bit at the touch, but when he started petting her, she seemed to really like the attention.

“How is the little guy anyway? Is he running around and doing what cats normally do?” he asked as he placed the cookies in his black messenger bag for safekeeping. “Y-yes, he is doing much better thanks to you. He is chasing butterflies and rolling around in the grass just like he did before the accident,” she responded quietly. “Well good, I am glad that I could be of help. I assume you took him to your usual vet to get the stitches out?” he asked remembering the operation. She gave him another nod. He nodded as well before gently patting the side of his bag “Well, thank you again for the treats. I shall enjoy them to the fullest. I shall return your bag once I see you again. If you need any more help from me, please don’t hesitate to seek me out. I am usually found at the park or the Golden Oak Library. Thank you again.” he said before continuing on his way.

Fluttershy stood there for a moment before turning to face him, a blush forming on her muzzle as she opened her mouth to call out to him before he got too far. But nothing seems to come out. She lets out a frustrated little huff and flies back home, upset with herself that she was too shy to really engage in more conversation with him. He seemed like he could really use another friend. And she could use another friend who was good with animals.

Author's Note

Okie doke. One more chapter and I shall release it to you all. Again...you won't see this till I post the story lol

May the darkness grant you peace.

Act 3: The Cat Is Out Of The Bag

The stars and moon shone brightly in the night sky as Innocentius lay atop the roof of his home. While his parents had gone to bed, he had snuck out for a little late night reading by moonlight. He did this on the weekends sometimes when he didn’t have to worry about school the next day. He enjoyed the cool night air and the sound of nothing but the wind blowing through the nearby trees and the sound of the nighttime critters. All was peaceful until he heard what sounded like arguing from the house across from him. He sighed and closed his book, but now it was time for him to go back into his room.

Before he made it down to his window however, he saw one of the windows open up and saw a white furred and pink man and tail filly climb onto the roof and sit down. Innocentius watched her pull her knees up to her chest and bury her face into them. He had seen this filly a few times before, but never really seen her come out at this time of night. He blinked a few times and cleared his throat, wondering if she’d be able to hear him.

The filly’s ears twitch before she slowly lifts her head to see Innocentius across the street on his roof. The colt gave a hesitant wave with a gentle smile. The filly gave a weak smile and waved back. But clenched her fist when she heard the sound of something breaking downstairs in her kitchen as the yelling continued. Innocentius knew exactly what was going on, as the neighbors he lived next to in his former life did this, but it was far, far worse. Violence was involved. And he had hoped that this filly wasn’t a victim of that. He placed a finger to his lips before he lifted into the air slowly and floated over to the rooftop that the filly sat on before silently landing and then sitting next to her. Another item on his new life list is flight without the need for wings.

The filly’s beautiful deep blue eyes widened as she let out a gasp but covered her mouth so that it was kept quiet. He turned his head toward her and offered a comforting smile “It's scary, I know. But so long as things don’t get violent between them or they turn it on you, it can be fixed over time. They…haven’t hurt you have they?” he asked hoping for the proper answer. “N-No, they haven’t hurt me. At least not seriously. And it is only my dad who gets any kind of physical with me or my mother. While..he hasn’t raised a hand to us, he has pushed us down a few times.” she said as she flinched again at the sound of breaking plates.

“Might I ask what brings your father to such a hostile point?” Innocentius asked as he was genuinely curious as to what could cause so much turmoil in this world in a household. “It's some kind of purple looking powder that my daddy comes home with every few weeks. He takes it into the basement and does something with it. He is there down there for what feels like hours and he comes back all happy and mellowed out. But..if he doesn’t get any more after a while..he gets like..this..” she said as she began to sob quietly.

The colt knew exactly what it was just by the mention of ‘purple powder’. He shakes his head before responding abc to her “It seems your father has an addiction to what is known as ‘Amethyst Dust’. A cheaper and far more dangerous alternative to ‘Sapphire Sand’ which is the purer and higher quality drug. Still addictive, but less of a hazard on the body.” he said as he remembered his father telling him about several cases he has had to deal with involving those very same drugs. “On another dangerous note, it can temporarily boost the magical abilities of unicorns,” he added.

The look on the filly’s face went from sadness to worry for her father’s life as she clenched her hands into fists “I want to tell him to get help…I want to be able to stop him from taking the drug. But…he has threatened to really hurt me or my mother if we went to the authorities about it. Even if we aren’t the ones to say anything, he still promised to make us regret them finding out…” she said as her worry went right back to fear.

Innocentius sighed softly as he knew the kind of predicament this filly and her mother were in. An abusive father and husband held them under his thumb with verbal abuse. And who knew how much longer it would be until physical abuse came into the picture with a drug like amethyst dust which was pretty much this world’s version of laced cocaine and sapphire sand being the purer version. Not only does it cause addiction and violent personality changes, but it wasn’t exactly cheap either. And it would be only a matter of time before this family could be living out on the streets of Canterlot.

Innocentius gave the filly a serious look “Who is the breadwinner in your family? I am assuming it is your mother?” he asked. The filly nodded “She is the one who was able to acquire this lovely house through her hard work. Her name is on it and everything. My dad somehow charmed my mother, weaseled his way in, they had me and that was it from there. He has been on this stuff ever since he met my mother…”. He nodded again “So, not married I assume?” he asked as a plan began formulating in his mind. She shakes her head once more.

Innocentius rubbed his chin as the perfect idea popped into his head “Hmmm, let me speak with my father about this. He has a couple of friends in the royal guard who can do something about it. Once they are made known, they will keep an eye on your house and strike when you and your mother are out of harm’s way. The royal guard doesn’t take too kindly to ponies who take that stuff, especially if they are raising children. We will make sure you and your mother both never have to deal with him ever again. No one deserves to live like that.” he said as he reached up and gently petted her on the head.

The filly leaned in and rested her head on his shoulder for what fke hours. She barely even knew this colt, but she felt…safe. “I never did get your name…” she said with closed eyes. “Innocentius, nice to meet you. And from what I heard, your name is Redheart, yes?”. The filly nodded to his question before scooting in closer to him. Innocentius could feel her shaking still, but it wasn’t as bad as it was when he first sat next to her. This was going to end. The poor girl and her mother had suffered enough.

After a full week of planning and surveillance on the house, a raid was planned for late in the evening when the father of Redheart was normally down in the basement taking the substance. As the guards quietly find their way into the house, Innocentius and his father quietly and quickly get Redheart out of the home and across the street into their house before the guards make their move. The guard certainly appreciated that the doctor and his son were wonderful enough to allow shelter in their home. That way, they could do what they needed to do without worrying about them getting hurt.

Unfortunately, things would not go as planned that night. As the sound of struggling and shouting ensued throughout the house, only one stallion emerged from the front door covered in cuts and blood. But, it wasn’t just his blood he was covered in. “Fuck….” Innocentius thought to himself as he watched from the window of his room with Redheart sitting on his bed wrapped up in the blanket. He saw the wide eyes and angry stallion stomping forward toward his home. He had all the signs that he was on the amethyst dust, it was the only way he could have possibly overpowered three guards, not to mention he had purple veins bulging in and around his eyes.

The sound of him beating on and kicking the front door made Redheart cry out in fear as she hid more under the large blanket “Please no..nononono!!” she sobbed as she started to fear for her and her mother’s life at this point. Innocentius could hear his father shouting downstairs for the juiced up stallion to leave while he did his best to prevent the door from being busted down. But the colt knew very well that wasn’t going to help much. So, he decided it was time for his backup plan.

The colt walked over to his dresser and pulled out a secret compartment he had made himself before pulling out a rather large syringe filled with a dark orange liquid. He pulled the needle protector off before flicking the needle, priming it to be ready to push the liquid into the stallion right when it entered his body. He quietly opens his window and positions himself over the entry of his home before lifting the syringe up to strike. He lets out a slow quiet breath before dropping down on the stallion’s shoulders and hamming the needle into his neck, smashing the plunger down as the liquid flows into the stallion’s body.

While it was a direct hit, it seemed that the amethyst dust was overhauling his physical capabilities as the orange liquid was supposed to have a near instant effect on his body. The stallion was supposed to drop like a sack of bricks while still conscious. However, the stallion reached up grabbed Innocentius by the arm, and threw him down with great force, causing pain to rack through the colt’s body as his vision blurred in and out. The stallion pulled out the needle and growled in anger before leaping on top of the boy and began to mercilessly plunge the dagger he had been using as a weapon to fight off the guards.

The first stab of the weapon felt like fire running through his body. The boy let out a cry of pain as he struggled under the weight of the large stallion who kept on stabbing him over and over. The colt kept fighting for his life until his body just suddenly gave out as it went limp. The look on his mother’s face was one of pure shock and terror as she screamed bloody murder as she saw her son being murdered right before her. She ran out the front door, pushing her husband out of the way with tears in her eyes. He was confused as to what was going on until he saw just what had become of Innocentius.

A look of pure loss and sadness slowly formed over his face as he saw Innocentius lying in a pool of his own blood. His mother kneeled beside him with her head buried in her son’s chest as she sobbed uncontrollably and so loud that it had woke the whole neighborhood. His father slowly walked out before falling to his knees next to his son. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing. His son was dead in front of him, taken away by a monster who had tried to run away from the scene, but the drug that Innocentius had injected into him had finally completely paralyzed him for at least the next few hours.

“Innocentius…my son…MY SOOOOOOON!!!” he cried out in anguish as his heart began to break along with his wife’s for the loss of their son. Redheart had watched the whole thing from Innocentius’ bedroom window, tears flowing freely down her cheeks as she covered her muzzle, a pained look in her eyes as she gripped the blanket that she had around her tightly. The neighbors gathered around as they witnessed what had played out. All was quiet except for the wailing of his parents. The faces of his neighbors filled with sadness to see a child murdered in such a cruel way.

But, Innocentius would not be taken tonight. Just as the last bit of his blood was about to leak out of his body, it suddenly began to flow right back in. And just as all the blood is pulled back into his body, the stab wounds start to seal up rather quickly as if they were never there to begin with. His parents and neighbors watched in shock and surprise as his eyes shot open and his chest pushed into the air as he took in a sharp gasp before sitting up like he had been shocked with fifty thousand volts of electricity. The colt grabbed at his chest where he had been stabbed multiple times as the pain stayed with him for a few moments before vanishing.

Another one of the last few items on his new life list is rapid regeneration. No matter the wound, he’d recover from it, even if he lost a limb, it would grow back like new, even if the brain was destroyed. So long if there was a part of him left, it would become whole once more. However, it didn’t make him immortal. Just harder to kill. Similar to a certain mouthy merc’s healing factor. But he made sure to include NO immortality. He didn’t want to live forever after all.

Innocentius looked around at all the shocked faces who had just seen him not only spring up like he was sleeping, but he somehow pulled his blood back into his body and his wounds were sealed close like they weren’t even there! “Is Redheart and her mother alright?” Innocentius asked as he looked around before seeing the paralyzed stallion lying on the ground completely unmoving but very much still awake. He let out a sigh of relief as he looked up towards his window to see Redheart staring down at him with tears flowing down her face, her eyes wide with shock as she saw him come back from death as well.

Innocentius looked around as he noticed the group of witnesses who stared at him like a bunch of fish along with his parents. The colt sighed and rubbed the back of his head “Alright everyone. You saw everything. But could you all please keep what you saw a secret? I’d rather not be hunted down and used for some kind of test subject. Please?” he asked as he clapped his hands together and lowered his head.

“Well, while you won’t be used as a test subject, I am afraid…that I saw the whole thing happen, young one.” said a motherly voice as several guards led the source through the crowd. Innocentius knew exactly who it was once he heard the sound of metal horseshoes clanking against the stone walkway of the road he sat on. His eyes shifted to the rather large, amazonian alicorn who looked down at him with a worried gaze, but soon changed to curious once she saw that he was not hurt in the slightest.

Innocentius looked towards the house and then back at Celestia “You want to send your guards in after their friends. The ones that were to take him in haven’t come out…and I don’t know if they are still alive.” he said before standing up, nearly collapsing back onto his knees as this was his first time regenerating, his parents quickly grabbing at their son to prevent his fall.

Celestia sends her guards in the check on the others while two more stay behind and bind the stallion up and carry him off “So tell me, young one. Just how are you alive right now? Let alone fully recover from such an ordeal? Just who and what exactly are you?” she asked with an arched brow while folding her arms under her enormous bust.

“Can we..discuss it elsewhere at another time, possibly…?” he asked with a nervous chuckle.

Author's Note

Aaand here you go, guys. A prologue and three chapters. That is as far as I am going. If y'all like this idea, I will most certainly be continuing this one.

May the darkness grant you peace.

Act 4: Celestia Assesses Innocentius' Power Pt. 1

It was a couple of days later after the whole ordeal of Innocentius putting a stop to what was happening to his neighbor’s family. Now, he sat in what appeared to be some form of interrogation room. Though, it wasn’t like the ones he’d seen in his past life on TV where it were just two metal chairs and a metal slab of a table. This one was…actually quite nice in fact. It was clean and had a rather surprisingly comfortable sofa and armchair facing towards him. But, no windows to be found. He guessed that they wanted the accused to be comfortable, but also had no chance of escaping.

Innocentius turns his gaze to nowhere specific and begins to speak “Well, since it is just me in here right now, I guess I will take the time to speak with you, author. I heard that some folks aren’t really a fan of me having the ability to speak to you or them. So, I guess I am going to have to give that ability up. But I am trading it for something else! It's only fair!”.

(Look, I thought it was a fun idea at the time! But it seems that my readers think otherwise. So, what is it that you want to trade out for the fourth wall breaking?)

Innocentius rubbed his chin in thought before snapping his fingers with a smile “Laser eyes. Gimme.” he said as he remembered seeing several superheroes in comics and television in his former life with that kind of ability. “And I wanna be able to control the intensity of the beam and heat as well. Make it happen.”.

(Alright, as the author, I will override this just this once. But from now on, you won’t be able to speak with me or the readers. Fair enough?)

Innocentius nodded” Make it happen,” he said before he suddenly felt like he had the largest migraine in the world for a couple of minutes, causing the colt to stagger a bit and catch himself against one of the walls as he held onto his head. It had felt like something was taken from him, but something hot and searing took its place before the pain subsided quickly. He had even forgotten he used to have the ability to speak to the author at this point.

He sat down on the couch to compose himself before he heard the sound of the handle of the door turning. He rubbed his face in his hands a few times before sitting up straight, seeing two guards walk in along with Celestia who had to lower her head a bit to make her way into the door. “Shiza…das ist eine große frau..” (Shit…that’s a big woman.) he said quietly as some of his original language slipped out a bit now that he took a good look at her. It's no wonder that she was the one in command of this country. She screamed ‘Regal and in charge.’.

Once everyone was inside, one of the guards closed the door before both of them took their place in front of the exit, standing at attention while Celestia took a seat in the armchair in front of Innocentius who simply sat there with his hands in his lap. It was awkwardly quiet for a moment before Celestia leaned forward and rested her chin atop her clenched hands “So then, young colt. Just who are you then?” she asked as she borrowed her eyes into his.

Innocentius couldn’t look away from those magenta eyes for some reason, it's like they had him locked in place. “And no lying to the princess either, kid.” said one of the guards who brought the colt out of his trance. The colt smiled as he remembered something from his past life “Alright, I confess. I was reborn from a past life with all my former memories still intact and I outplayed some crazy celestial lady who I tricked into giving me a list of abilities that counted as a single item and here I am to live out my new life here.” he said plainly.

The guard stared at him for a moment dumbstruck before shaking their heads for a second “I said no lies!” said the guard from before. “I think he’s telling the truth…” said the other guard as he leaned in to whisper to his friend. “If he was telling the truth, he wouldn’t have told us.”. This was Innocentius’ moment “Unless, of course, he knew you wouldn’t believe the truth, even if he told it to you.” he said with the most serious face he could muster. The guard nodded slightly before getting a puzzled look on his face from the rebuttal.

Celestia cleared her throat as she turned to gaze at her guards who went quiet real quick before turning her attention back to the colt “Alright, so let’s say for argument's sake, I believe you fully. How can you prove to me that you are who you say you are?” she asked as she leaned back in her chair while crossing one leg of the other. It was a valid question indeed. But, maybe just some basic information would be enough?

Innocentius rubbed his chin in thought for a moment before answering “Welllll…the world I was living in before I died was one of chaos and peace at the same time I guess? A country called America was calling the shots. And they had some old dude as president who couldn’t walk up a single flight of steps. He just got replaced by someone the folks from my world have dubbed as ‘Orange Man’. We had two world wars, they are probably on their way to the third as we speak. The youth has come up with this brain rot slang for things like ‘skibidy rizz’ and ‘Gyatt’. But I am not going to poison your mind with such dribble. We make good food though, at least.” he said as he shrugged his shoulders lightly.

Celestia’s eyebrow twitched a bit at this rather mentally harmful information. But, how could she not believe him? A child at his current age couldn’t make this up no matter how hard they tried. She then asks one more question “What exactly is your plan going forward from here then?”. Innocentius rubbed his chin in thought before answering “Well, it is what it has always been. Become the best doctor I can be and live a life of peace and protect those that I love and care for. I just wanna live the life I never got to, live before I died.” he said as genuinely as he could.

Celestia nodded again before sighing in relief “Then I don’t think I have anything to worry about from you then, little one. However, I would like a demonstration of these abilities you mentioned. Though, I believe I have already seen one of yours a couple of nights ago. The fatal wounds that you received should have ended your life. But, here you sit before me, with no evidence of such an attack.” she said as she stood up and made her way to the door. “I am going to call upon you tomorrow to come to the castle. There, you will show me what kind of power you possess. Is that understood?” she asked with a rather serious tone this time.

The colt could see that she meant business by the look in her eyes and to seriousness of her voice. He gave a firm nod before waiting for them to leave. After which he let out a sigh of relief and walked out himself. Thankfully he was only at the guardstation just in Ponyville, so he ran home right away to make sure that his parents didn’t have to worry any more than they did. The young stallion had a very busy day tomorrow After he had informed his parents, wasted no time in preparing. He ate a hearty meal and got to bed early. While he was nervous about revealing his abilities, he couldn’t help but feel a bit of excitement as well.

The next morning came around. Innocentius was gently shaken awake by his mother before letting him know that they had arrived to come and claim him for the day. He didn’t want to waste any more time than he had already so he did his usual morning routine before dressing up in some clothes that he didn’t mind getting dirty. He had a feeling he was going to be doing a LOT of moving today and he wanted to be ready and comfortable for it all. He stepped out of his home wearing a black, yellow, and white tracksuit along with a plain black shirt under the jacket part of the outfit.

He approached the guards who had come to retrieve him and looked between them both before they hooked him securely under his arms and began the bat their wings a few times before taking off toward the castle. Innocentius smiled and waved to his mother, assuring her he’d return home safely. His father would have seen him off, but he was needed at the local hospital. The guards made sure that the colt they were carrying was still very much secured as they flew on, however, he was actually helping them out by enabling his flight as well, so he felt lighter than before they had lifted off.

Once they made it to the castle, the pegasi who had carried him landed in front of two unicorn guards who then escorted the colt not to the throne room, but to one of the training grounds closer to the guard barracks. The guard entered the training ring with the colt behind them before stopping and bowing slightly to Celestia who stood off on a balcony along with two other guards standing behind her, just as stoic as ever. “Welcome, young Innocentius. As you know, I am here to assess what abilities you possess. Now, before we begin, is there anything you wish to tell me specifically about your abilities?” she asked as she had a few guards put out training dummies for the boy.

Innocentius didn’t remember telling her that he had combat capabilities. But, he supposed that she wanted to be prepared for just about anything. “Well, I suppose what my main focus is is my healing magic. But I do possess a few…shall we say ‘natural abilities’ that don’t rely on my magic.” he said as he stretched out a bit as he got ready to show her what he could do. Her eyebrows rose a bit at the mention of ‘healing magic’. Was it like how his body healed itself? Or did it actually involve the use of magic? She would find out later though, as she was curious as to what he could do should he ever need to defend himself. “Very well, you may begin.” she simply stated.

Innocentius rubbed his chin in thought on what to show her first. He simply shrugged and lifted off the ground without even having to push off the stone tiles that he stood under before he started pivoting from side to side and circling the whole training ground a few times. This was his flight without the use of any kind of support. He took a page from one of his favorite Netflix animated shows, Invincible. He loved how Omni-Man could just…fly. Like nothing was needed to lift off in the air, he could just do it. Celestia and her guards watched him drift around the area before he drifted back to the middle of the arena. This next ability was one that might cause a bit of concern though.

Innocentius’ eyes started to glow a very bright yellow as he removed his glasses before two golden beams of light shot from his eyes. He made sure to keep his eyes on the training dummies only because he knew if he looked at anyone, it could spell trouble. As the training dummies were sliced in half by the lasers. Just as he thought, that ability did concern Celestia quite a bit as she saw the raw damage of what that could do to something or someone. Innocentius lowered himself to the ground and blinked rapidly as the glow in his eyes flickered before he brought his hands up to rub them before the glow finally went away. “I…haven’t had the chance to really practice using these. Until today, I have been keeping most of my abilities a secret. Only a few select friends know about my flight and healing magic.” he said as he wiped tears from his eyes from the irritation he was feeling from his laser eyes before putting his glasses back on.

This next ability he was about to show them was one he took from a certain anime. It was the ability of a character who barely remembered he could do this at all, and throughout the show, he used it maybe three or four times. “Uuuuh…before I started, I am afraid…I gotta lose all my clothes. This is one of my favorite outfits and I don’t wanna lose it. So, sorry in advance.” he said as he began to strip out of his clothing. All the way down to her bare fur. The guards were rather appalled at such vulgarity in front of the princess, but Celestia was genuinely intrigued at what could make him strip down to his fur. She would allow him to show this ability he possessed. Soon enough, Innocentius would begin to growl lowly before his body would begin to increase in size slowly at first, then it began to gradually grow more and more until the colt now stood twenty feet tall, now eye level with the balcony on which the princess stood. The colt gave a slight blush as he placed his hands in front of himself to preserve his modesty in front of everyone “Obviously this is only for extreme situations…so I don’t plan on making a habit of it. If you know anypony who specializes in making clothing that expands to such extreme sizes though, I’d appreciate it if you could direct me.. He said before shrinking back down to his normal size and quickly getting dressed.

Celestia waited ill he was fully clothed again before addressing him “Is that the largest that ability can make you?” she asked with genuine interest. If need be, that could really help out with large enemies, fallen buildings, or any time of emergency that would require a large amount of force quickly. “I think the maximum height I can go is fifty feet. Again, this is the first time using this kind of ability,” he said with a light shrug of his shoulders. Celestia nodded before speaking again “Anything else you wish to show me?”.

“Well, I suppose I could show you the martial arts I brought along with me. While my brain knows how to do them, I am afraid that my body isn’t accustomed to such things. As you can see, I don’t exactly look like the most fit colt in the world.” he said as he looked like a skinny little kid, with hardly any muscle on his bones. “But, I have full knowledge of karate, aikido, and complete grandmastery of the great hammer all in here,” he said as he tapped the side of his head.

Celestia nodded again before taking flight and gliding down to stand in front of Innocentius. She stared down at him for a moment before addressing him “Why did you request such abilities if I may ask? If you plan on becoming a doctor, why have such potentially destructive abilities?” she asked as she arched a brow, waiting for his answer.

Innocentius knew this question would come up eventually. But, he just smiled and answered without missing a beat. “Well, when you are stuck in a hospital bed most of your life, you tend to think about things. That, and combined with all the time in the world to watch TV and read books, you wish you had the abilities of those very characters. Simply put, I was given the opportunity, and I seized it. I wanted these abilities simply because I wanted them. I have no clear cut agenda for them. Simple as that.” he said with a genuine nod. Celestia was actually relieved that he gave such an honest and straightforward answer. She couldn’t help but laugh “My goodness. Simply because ‘you wanted them’ huh? You really are an honest child, aren’t you?” she asked before shaking her head but smiled back at him approvingly.

“Very well then, now that that is out of the way, I wish to see this ‘healing magic’ that you possess. Follow me to the infirmary, if you will.” she said as she turned to lead the way, her guards following behind them as the princess showed the way. “U-um…about this little exhibition…it won’t be made public right?” he asked with a bit of nervousness in his voice. Celestia shook her head offering a reassuring smile “Not to worry, all my guards who have seen what you can do today have sworn to secrecy. It is up to you when you decide to make your power known. So long as you don’t use it for senseless violence.” she said as she lead him to the infirmary.

Author's Note

Alright, everyone, we are getting this story going now. Since a few of y'all seem to like it, I will go ahead with its full creation. Also, I got rid of the four wall braking ability. Hope you are happy :p

May the darkness grant you peace.

Act 5: Celesita Assesses Innocentius' Power Pt 2

Innocentius followed Celestia on the way to the infirmary, taking in whatever sights of the castle he could. Never in his life did he ever think he’d get to see such beautifully built architecture in person. He has always seen pictures of the inner building of castles in his former life. But this, this took the cake. On the way there, he passed what appeared to be a classroom of sorts. He couldn't help but stop and peek in at the students there. He leaned into the side of the doorway and saw the students diligently working. Some were practicing various types of magic while the others were face deep in their books.

One of the students peeked up from their book to see Innocentius peeking in. Once he released he had been seen, the colt hesitantly lifted a hand up to give a light wave and a small smile. The lavender filly unicorn blinked a few times but offered a hesitant wave herself. Innocentius smiled a bit more and nodded before looking toward Celestia who had returned to gently place a hand on his shoulder to remind him to follow her. Innocentius quietly nodded in return before waving one more time to the filly before he and the princess continued on their way.

As they walked, Innocentius just couldn’t help but ask about the other foals he had just seen “I take it that those other kids are more academically inclined than most?” he asked as they walked passed a small inner courtyard that had a fountain in the middle of it. Celestia nodded in response “Those are some of the more gifted children that I have taken under my wing, pun intended~.” she said with a rather cute giggle “You could be one of those students to should your magic prove useful.”. The colt shook his head with a “Mm-mm. I am afraid that I am not exactly the most academic colt. Sure, I can school just about anyone when it comes to medical, medicinal, or alchemical knowledge. But that was because I added that to the list of what I wanted to bring with me. I am still learning everything else as I should be learning it. After all, despite what power I have, I know I am still just a kid.”

Celestia smiled to herself as they walked along, she was growing fond of this colt already “And that is a rather nice quality you possess, little one. I have seen adults who crave your kind of power and turn to doing unspeakable things to get it, and still never reach that goal.” she said as they turned down another corridor. Innocentius shook his head for a moment “I don’t know about that. A couple of months ago, one of my bullies tripped me and made me sip a drink. I got so upset that I beat him down while using my healing magic on him at the same time. I couldn’t take it anymore and the adults were doing nothing to stop it…” he said as he felt like he might be judged by her for telling her this.

Celestia stopped and turned to face him before crouching down and resting on her haunches “What do you mean you ‘beat him down while healing him’?” she asked in genuine curiosity rather than disapproval. Innocentius brought up one of his hands and had the platinum aura shimmered around them when he formed it into a fist “Well, I can use my healing anyway that I please. Be it for offensive or defensive purposes. And so I can cause pain while curing it at the same time. Think of it like a phantom pain. Once I make the injury happen, the damage goes away, but the pain still lingers.” he said before lowering his hand back down to his side.

Celestia let out a soft “ooooh” as she saw just how beautiful his magical aura was. Never before has she seen a unicorn possess a platinum color like that. She has seen gold, silver, diamond, and various other beautiful colors, but never platinum. “I see. I must say that is a rather….unconventional way to use your magic. I can’t really tell if that is merciful or cruel..that is a real head scratcher..’ she said as she did indeed scratch the back of her head as she tried to decide on how she felt about it. Did she not know about other ponies who could heal using magic in the past? Or was it just such an obscure topic of discussion? Innocentius did remember his father telling him that ponies who could do such a thing were very few and far between.

“Princess, have you ever met another pony who could use magic to heal?” he asked while he was thinking about it. Celestia shook her head before standing back up “I have not. Out of all the years I have been in this world, you are definitely the first one I have met.”. The colt blinked a few times and quickly nodded in response. “So..she doesn’t know about other ponies that possess a similar power then..? I might be in trouble here…” he thought to himself as they continued toward the infirmary.

Once they walked into the room, Innocentius immediately recognized the scent of antiseptic and hospital supplies. He took in a breath and let out a sigh before smiling “Oooh the old familiar places…” he simply said before following Celestia to a guard who was lying in bed with a dislocated knee of all things “Let’s see what you can do about this pony here. From what he is complaining about, he says that his knee is bro-”. Innocentius shook his head as he cut her off, a more serious tone in his voice “It's not broken, just dislocated is all.” he said as he approached the stallion’s bedside, not wasting any time before the stallion could protest “Hey hey hey! Stop!” he shouted as he panicked when Innocentius grabbed at the dislocated knee before popping it back into place with a sickening but satisfying pop.

All was quiet for a moment as both the stallion and Celestia stared at Innocentius in absolute shock before turning their attention to the knee. Hesitantly, the guard started to lift his leg up and down and pull it forward and back “Heeeyy, look at that..” the guard said in astonishment. He felt sore, but he had the full motion of his leg again. “Send him home to recover for a day or so and put him on some pain relievers. He should be back on the job by the day after tomorrow,” he said confidently.

The guard looks between the colt and Celestia before speaking “Princess..who in the world is this kid..?” he asked as his eyes turned back to Innocentius. Celestia crossed her arms as she stared at the colt, genuinely impressed “A medical prodigy apparently…” she said as she then nodded and sent the guard off to head home for a couple of days. After this, she led Innocentius to another more severely hurt guard who appeared to be suffering from a form of necrosis. Innocentius’ eyes shot wide open for a moment before they lowered back down into a more focused state. He rolled up his sleeves and walked over to the cleaning station and scrubbed his hands as clean as he could get them before returning to the patient’s side.

“Get me the one in charge of the infirmary, I need to know how long this mare has had this wound,” he said before undressing the bloody bandages around the guard’s arm. However, he could already see that there was no saving it. He’d have to really do something drastic to make sure this guard remained alive. Soon the doctor who was in charge of the infirmary came to see why he was summoned before looking down at Innocentius with an annoyed look of contentment “What the fuck are you doing in here, kid?! Get away from the patron!” he shouted, not really caring that the princess was the one who had brought him here.

Innocentius wanted to shout back at the angered doctor, but now wasn’t the time “Doctor, have you seriously not done more than just bandage up this wound? That is a fucking manticore stinger wound…the venom is extremely deadly!” he said in a calm but evidently angry manner. “Necrosis doesn’t just stop at the point of trauma you idiot, if not treated right away, it can infect the whole goddamn body…” he said as he looked around the room for a bone saw. He eventually found one and shoved the doctor away from the patient who was standing there looking like a fish out of water before he ran around looking for a sedative he could use. Unfortunately, it seemed that this infirmary didn’t possess what he needed to ease the pain that would soon be forced upon the guardsmare.

“Fucking useless. Keep your damned meds in stock!” he shouted as he made his way over back with a folded cloth and put on a pair of latex gloves. At least they had those. “Hey, ma’am, I need you to stay with me alright?” he said as he turned to a more calm tone of voice for the mare. “I don’t have time to explain why you have a child tending to you right now, just please trust me and bite down on this…. your arm..is lost to the venom..” he said as he grabbed a tourniquet around her upper arm to prevent the flow of blood as tightly as he could before placing the bite stick into her muzzle, holding it until he could feel her teeth taking over.

The doctor looked over at the princess who he couldn’t believe was allowing this to happen. But as Celestia watched him, something told her that he knew exactly what he was doing. The seriousness is on his face, the focus in his eyes. It was as if he had done this before. But, this is where all his cheated knowledge came into play. He was finally becoming useful for once in helping keep someone alive, instead of others doing the same for him.

“Alright..here we go..you won’t feel it at first because the area is dead…but when I hit the bone, you are going to feel it.” he said as he looked back at the princess “You…might want to close your eyes and cover your ears,” he said as he placed the saw against the dead flesh. Buit, before he started sawing, he suddenly got an idea. A far quicker and less messy idea. The colt removed his glasses before his eyes glowed that golden yellow before a quick shot of his eye lasers severed the dead limb without having to worry about it being a messy cut. The mare’s eyes shut hard as she let out a cry of pain that was muffled by her biting down on the pain stick, her body thrashing and legs kicking before Innocentius calmly put his glasses back on and folded the cloth over the severed limb “Make yourself useful, doctor. Dispose of the dead limb however you do it.” he said before he turned back to the patient at hand.

“Hang in there for just a little bit longer, ma’am…” he said before placing a hand on her shoulder and holding his other hand out over the stomp that was once her right arm. He closes his eyes before he reopens them, that platinum glow forming in them along with his horn and around both of his hands. The colt was in deep concentration with his magic as the aura flared up slightly, suddenly, the mare’s arm began to gradually reform from the smallest piece of bone and tissue. It was like it was being weaved and formed like a 3D printer was recreating a prosthetic, but instead with bone, nerves, muscle, flesh, and fur. Innocentius continued to push his magic as far as he could to make sure that this mare would get her arm back, even to the point where he was starting to get a migraine from such an intricate use of his magic. At this point, he was sweating bullets.

Thankfully, the operation was a complete success. The mare’s arm was fully restored to the same way it was before the venom had destroyed it. Innocentius collapsed to his knees, knocking over a cart that had medical instruments on it as he fell to his side. He was completely exhausted from doing just this one regen operation. He rolled onto his back to see Celestia moving over to him quickly to make sure he was alright, getting down on her hands and knees to lean over him, gently tapping the side of his face to make sure he was still conscious as a look of worry rolled over her features “Innocentius…Innocentius!” she called out to him as she gently shook his body. The only response she got was him lifting a shaky hand into the air before it formed a thumbs up before it dropped back down to his side “I did it…I got to save someone’s life for once. I got to..give back to someone who was…in need…” he said before he closed his eyes, too tired to carry on.

Innocentius slowly opened his eyes, his vision blurry at first before he blinked a few times. He felt his head resting on something rather pleasantly soft and warm. And the feeling of a gentle hand combing through his mane made him feel rather..nice. Once his vision had finally stabilized..well enough so without his glasses, he reached around for them before finding they were resting on his chest. He placed them back on before seeing a smiling Celestia gazing down at him. Of course, that large bust obscured most of her face “Welcome back, young one. Feeling better..?” she asked as she watched him slowly sit up and swing his legs off the bed he was lying on.

He sat there for a moment hunched over, rubbing his face with a hand “How is she?” he asked in a groggy tone, more concerned about the guardsmare than himself, just as a future doctor should be. Celestia nodded before answering “She is resting from the ordeal. But from what the infirmary staff can see, she has made a full recovery.”. Innocentius let out a sigh of relief before he tried to stand up, but plopped right back on the bed before letting out a grunt of disapproval at his current state.

“So..what is your verdict on my power then?” he asked as he tiredly gazed up at her. Celestia simply shook her head but smiled “You…really are something, kiddo. Never in my lifetime have I ever, EVER seen such a full recovery of a lost limb. You truly are an indispensable figure in this kingdom. We need to make sure that your magic is increased as much as you can get it though. We can’t have you passing out like this after you tend to someone like that.” she said as she placed a gentle hand on his back. He shook his head in response “That..was the first time using my ability to fully restore a limb. I only use my magic on severe injuries. And that was by far the most severe one I have ever dealt with. So..am I done..? Can I please go home now..?” he asked with a pleading look on his face. Celestia needed to remember that despite his abilities, he was still just a kid.

“Of course, sweetie. Let’s get you back home..” she said as she watched the two pegasi from earlier start to approach. But the princess held up a hand to stop them before gently lifting up the colt in her arms and cradling him close to her chest in a protective manner “I will be the one to take him back. I shall return soon.” she said as she got up and walked out with Innocentius in her arms.

Author's Note

Seems the boy has a lot to do to have greater endurance with his healing magic. Let's hope he gets that chance to improve on his abilities huh? And just in case you were all wondering how his name was pronounced. (In-no-ken-tee-us) is the proper way to say it.

May the darkness grant you peace.

Act 6 To Train The Body, Magic & Mind

Innocentius woke up the next morning before hesitantly going downstairs to join his mother and father for breakfast. He had been dreading this moment for the last couple of days or so. Now that all his business with Celestia was out of the way, it was time for his parents to drop questions of their own onto him. He slowly made his way into the dining room where his mother had just sat out a plate of his favorite pecan waffles and a tall glass of ice cold milk. He smiled awkwardly at them both, seeing his father sitting at his spot at the table with a paper and coffee in hand.

As he sat down, there was a long silence before his mother smiled warmly to her son and leaned down, and gently kissed him on the forehead before heading back to prepare her husband’s food. He looked between her and his father before his father caught him staring “Everything alright, kiddo?” he asked with a warm smile on his muzzle before sipping his coffee. Innocentius blinked a few times before speaking up “I mean…I figured you two would be hitting me with questions about how I am still alive from the ordeal the other night..and what exactly the princess and I discussed.” he said as he hesitantly took a drink of his milk.

His parents looked at each other before his father shrugged “Honestly? We were shocked at first. But then again, you have never really been a normal kid have you?” he asked before reaching over and ruffling his son’s mane. “We aren’t going to press you for what’s going on in your life, sweetie. We will either find out eventually, or you will tell us when you are ready. Your father was the exact same way at your age after all~.” she said as she playfully hip bumped him as she walked by to get something from one of the cabinets. “Well yeah, what colt doesn’t want to tell their parents what’s going on in their life? Especially our boy. I could understand why he’d want to keep such things under wraps!” he retorted to his wife.

Innocentius just sat there, completely floored at how blahzay they were to the whole situation. It's not that they didn’t care, far from it in fact. They had just figured that their son was quite a different colt was all. And they were totally fine with it. “Soooo…you are absolutely cool with me and how I am then..?” he asked with an arched brow. “Totally cool with it.” they both responded with a nod. “You are our baby boy, Innocentius. We love and support you all the way.” his mother said before wrapping a free arm around him from behind and giving him the biggest hug.

It seemed that he had absolutely nothing to worry about from his family at least. This was a huge relief as he dug into his breakfast, his appetite returning full force now that his worries were lessened a bit more. The question is: How would his friends react? Surely there were rumors floating about town. And his most recent friend Redheart saw the whole thing unfold before her very eyes. Would she see him as someone strange to keep her distance? Not that he’d blame her. He was just happy that she and her mother no longer had to fear for their lives anymore.

After having eaten his food and hugging his mother while thanking her for the food, he heads back to his room and gets dressed for the day. He had decided that he would improve his mind, body, and magic for his abilities and improve on those as well. Because what if there was a time when he might actually need them? It may not be today, it may not be ten years from now. But he figured it would be good to condition himself. After all, a healthy mind and body could only do him good as he got older, right?

He makes his way outside, closing the front door behind him as he looks over at Redheart’s house which seems to have the curtains drawn over all the windows. Innocentius wasn’t going to jump to any conclusions yet. She and her mother may have both just been out doing daily things. He simply shakes his head to bring himself to focus on his new goal, get stronger, and get in shape. And no better place to do that than in the Everfree Forest away from prying eyes.

While in the forest, the colt did all matters of training. He found a nice quiet spot to meditate and work on focusing his magic by expending it as much as he could, then resting, then doing the same thing again after the small break. He figured the amount of magic one could use was like a reservoir. The more it is used, the bigger that reservoir can get. At least, that was his theory anyway. Who knew how magic worked in this world after all.

After a couple of hours of working on his magic capacity, he actually works on the healing magic itself so that it doesn’t tax him as much as it did. He went around in the first seeking damaged trees. He’d place his hand upon the trunk of it before closing his eyes and focusing as hard as he could. The trees would then become a lighter shade and even have leaves and flowers blooming right away as he pumped some healing goodness into the wood. He kept up this process for as long as he could until it was time to move on to his giant form training.

Innocentius would venture a little further into the forest where there would be taller trees. He’d find a nice roomy opening he could use before sighing and looking down at his clothing “I know the chances are slim that someone could come out here and find me. But, that means there is still a chance regardless. I really need to invest in some size shifting clothes…” he said to himself before he striped down into nothing but his flesh and fur. After which he places his neatly folded clothing on a nearby rock and focuses. Soon enough, his body grows to a full thirty feet tall, which he could feel straining on him a bit.

He plops down in the middle of the opening and crosses his legs before lowering his head “Think. Big. Think big, think big, think big.” he mumbled to himself as a form of mantra as he focused on maintaining this size for as long as he could. He did wonder though…would his size double when he was an adult? After about an hour, his body couldn’t take any more before it began shrinking back down to its normal size, the colt falling back into his back as he lay there in the tall grass panting slightly “And to think….I am going to be doing this and alternating days to go to the gym…” he said as he began to doze off a bit. The sun rays and the soft grass felt so nice on his body, especially after a solid five hours of training. He didn’t even realize he was falling asleep until it was too late.

Innocentius slowly opened his eyes as he woke up from his little nap. He stood up and made his way over to his folded clothing and got dressed “Alright, one more thing to practice with and I am heading back home..” he said as he walked over to a rather large boulder and removed his glasses. He opened his eyes as they began to glow gold before the two beams fired from them as they embedded themselves into the rock. Innocentius maintained full control for as long as he could before the strain started getting to him, the glow flickering out as he blinked a few times before rubbing his eyes with one of his forearms. It's a good thing that he didn’t have to worry about school for the next couple of months. Or else he’d be completely wiped out every day.

Once he had taken a break after getting dressed, he’d find his way back out of the forest and head straight for the town gym. It wasn’t anything fancy. Ponies could come and go as they pleased for a small fee a month and there were a few personal trainers that would work with you for a little extra money. Innocentius looked towards the sign on the window which read ‘Beginner’s Special Happening Now! Buy Your First Month, Get The Next Free!!’. He reached into his pocket and felt around for his wallet. He had it with him thankfully. But he only had one hundred bits, and that was collected over two months of doing chores and getting lucky and finding a few pieces on the streets.

He sighed as he was trying to save up for some new medical tools he had been wanting for a while now. But the young stallion had a goal and a full summer ahead of him. And he was determined to reach that goal. He walked into the building, the bell jingling as the top of the door hit it when swung open. He looked left to right as he walked in, a nervous shiver going up his spine before he walked up to the counter where a rather fit looking young mare sat looking bored. Innocentius cleared his throat, getting the mare’s attention “Hmm? Oh, hey there kiddo. Whatcha need?” the the dark blue fur and golden mane and tail mare asked as she leaned over the counter to get a good look at the colt.

“Yes, ma’am. I am looking to join up and get into shape. I figured I had a full summer to put some meat on my body. And I saw you are having a special. Or..am I too young?” he asked as he shifted on his hooves a bit. The mare studied Innocentius for a moment before smiling widely “You are never too young to start workin’ out, kiddo. But before you spend your hard earned money, would you like a tour of the place? I can show you all the facilities we have at your possible disposal.”. Innocentius would nod a few times in response. The mare nodded back before getting up “Follow me then~.” she said as she led the way.

It was just like any gym Innocentius had seen in his past life when he had physical therapy. Sure, the weights, treadmills, and all the other exercise equipment weren’t state of the art, but it would get him where he needed to go and he was fine with that. The place was bigger than it let on however, as it not only had the standard exercising equipment, but it had a male and female separate locker room, a sauna, and an olympic sized swimming pool. After she finished showing him all they had, they headed back to the front and began talking about his membership.

“So, whatcha think, hon? You wanna put in the work?” she asked as she sat back down in her chair. Innocentius grabbed his wallet and looked down at it before up at her “How much am I handing off to you?” he asked as he opened it up. “Membership will run you about fifteen bits a month. But since you are joining during our special, you don’t have to worry about next month’s payment. So you are gettin’ a pretty sweet deal.” she said as she pulled up the paperwork. Fifteen bits a month?! That was an amazing deal, especially with what they offered for use! Even more so when he looked around the gym on the tour, it was surprisingly clean. Looks like those medical tools aren’t too far off after all.

“Alright then, sounds like a pretty good deal, indeed. Here you are then,” he said as he pulled out the required money for the transaction. The mare smiled once more and took the money before sliding him the paperwork “You need any help fillin it out?” she asked as she was happy to see someone so young wanting to get into shape. As he read through the fine print, he noticed that the sauna was co-ed. Now he knew why the room had see-through glass walls. Not only to make sure that they were kept an eye on so that they could stay safe but who knows what might go on in there if stallions and mares can go in there at the same time! It still didn’t help his young male anxiety though.

After he had finished signing his name, the mare took his paper and stamped it before placing it in the file drawer under the table and handing him an ID card that he then promptly put in his wallet. Will you be beginning today, hon?” she asked as she then noticed that he was rather spent already and his clothes had a bit of dirt on them “...Or not. It looks like you have already had some sort of workout today judging by your appearance. You gonna be alright?” she asked as she continued to look him over. He nodded “Yeah, I am fine. I mainly came here today to just join up. Let’s just say I am alternating my own personal workout and the one I will be putting in here. With a few days to myself of course. While I don’t have many friends, I do have some. Thank you again for showing me around and getting me set up ma’am.” he said with a bow of his head.

“So polite~. You are very welcome. Hope to see you back here tomorrow>” she said as she waved to him as he left. She didn’t mention it, but she actually knew who he was the whole time. After all, her primary doctor told her about him all the time when she visited for a physical. “So, that is Innocentius. Adorable little guy. He is gonna be quite handsome as he gets older if he sticks with it though. “ she said as she giggled to herself before getting bored again, resting her chin on her hand as she flipped through a magazine she had resting next to her.

By the time he had got home, it was nearly nightfall. And he was absolutely worn out from such a busy day. He’d have dinner, get a nice hot bubble bath, and get changed into his usual pajama bottoms and a plain black t-shirt before heading out on the roof with one of his books he’d resume reading. At the same time, he was also hoping that Redheart might see him and join him as well. He really wanted to speak with her and make sure that they were still cool. But, he could understand if that wasn’t the case.

After a couple hours of lounging on the roof, and no sign of movement coming from her window, he gave a sigh of defeat and closed his book before heading in for the night. He was just about to slip into his window before he heard the sound of a window opening up behind him, and the sound of hooves clanking on a rooftop. He turned to see Redheart staring at him with wide worried eyes as she held a hand up toward him. He lifted a hand up as well and gave a hesitant wave. In return.

She motioned him over after what felt like forever as they stared at one another. Innocentius nodded before drifting over to her home and landing next to her. She stared up at him for a moment before getting to her hooves, slowly approaching him at first before colliding with him, nearly sending them sliding down, but he was able to stabilize both their footing. Redheart wrapped her friend up in a big hug as her tail started swaying ninety miles an hour “You really are alive…thank Celestia you are alive! She whispered excitedly as she held onto him as tight as she could.

Innocentius held his arms out slightly before slowly embracing her in return. She was really worried about him it seemed as if she was shaking when she embraced him in that hug. The colt brought a hand up to the top of her head and nodded “Yeah…I am tougher than I look apparently…” he said as he stroked her mane in a comforting manner “Listen, if you have the time, I need to tell you a few things. And if I don’t do it now, it might cause some trouble down the road for you. Let’s sit.” he said as he sat her down next to him.

Over the next few hours, he’d tell her everything. About his abilities, his healing magic, everything but how he was reincarnated into this world. He figured she may be too young to understand that yet, but he’d tell her eventually should they remain friends further down the road. The filly didn’t even interrupt him as he spoke, she simply leaned in against him and listened. It didn’t matter to her, she was just happy that they would get to spend nights like this again from now on and not have to fear her or her mother being abused again. She felt like she owed her life to him, and that was enough.

Author's Note

Here ya go guys, another one for ya. I am trying to be better about describing his day to day activities. I don't know if you all really want that kind of filler stuff. But trying to branch out from the..I guess you could call it the 'main path' of the story a bit better?" xD

May the darkness grant you peace.

Act 7: The Pink Fluff & A bit Of Apple Picking

It has been a full month since Innocentius started his training. And as he gazed at himself in his bedroom mirror, he noticed that not only had he gotten a bit more meatier, but he had grown a couple of inches as well. Perhaps working his body, magic, and mind all at once is helping with his growth spurt? He is at that age where boys tend to spring up in height over the summer. But he wasn’t going to stop now when he was just at the halfway point. He still had a whole entire month of free gym time to use up after all.

Not only has his physical form improved, but the duration of his abilities and the capacity and use of his magic as well. It has gotten to the point where he never runs out of magic. At least not that he knows of. While healing trees is a rather easy feat for him now, who is to say that it is the same as recreating another being’s limb from a stomp? After all, wood is simply that, wood. But flesh, bone, sinew, veins, nerves. It is all an intricate system of the body.

Even his giant form has become easier to manage as well. The longest he has been able to stay in that form is about five to seven hours, depending upon how big he goes. He has been seen by various other woodland creatures who have stumbled upon his lumbering form when they are out foraging, they have only hung around him enough to sniff and poke at his legs when he is focusing on maintaining his size, but other than that they have left him alone. Even his control of his laser eyes has gotten to a fine point where he can increase or decrease the temperature and intensity of the beam. But just as he is doing with his gym time, he isn’t slowing down until school picks back up again.

Even his flight time and speed have improved significantly. However, there is always this blurry blur that zooms past him every day and seems to just leave him in the clouds. And he has made it personal to be able to outfly them at least once. They don’t even stop to say hello before making him almost barrel roll out of control. He will beat her one day. It may not be soon, but it will happen. But, now wasn’t the time to dwell on that. Today was going to be a good day as it was one of his off days. And he was going to spend it in his spot at the park, under his favorite tree.

As he sat there with one of his books, he couldn’t help but feel like he was being watched. He lowered his book slightly before resuming his reading, but ever still alert of the prying eyes. He lowers his book after a few more minutes to see a VERY pink filly staring at him from across the park with wide aqua blue eyes. He lifts his book back up, then back down. Seems she has gotten just a little bit closer… Each time he did this, she’d scoot just a little closer each time “Is she a damn cat or what…?” he whispered to himself.

Soon enough, he lowered his book once more to find the filly crouching in front of him with her hands on her knees and her face directly in his, those eyes still staring widely at him. “No, I don’t have any games on my phone…” he said with a deadpan expression on his face. “What’s a….phone?” she asked with a tilt of her head, her mane bouncy and curly. The filly smelled of cotton candy and cake, and given how she had a slightly chubbier form than most fillies at her age, she must have really loved sweets.

Innocentius shook his head with a chuckle “Oh nothing, just a little inside joke that I can only enjoy. Something you need from me?” he asked as he put down his book in his lap She smiled at him before nodding “I just moved here in town! I am going to be staying at Sugar Cube Corner and helping out the Cakes with the shop. I came from a rock farm just outside of town. And I figured that wasn’t where I was meant to be so now I am here! So I was wondering if you’d like to be my very first friend here?” she asked with a hopeful tone in her voice.

Given that Innocentius was also a child who was moved around many times in his past life, he could understand completely about meeting new people and making new friends all the time. It wasn’t an easy life. So how could he say no to such a request? And she seemed nice enough. “Sure thing. My name is Innocentius. Nice to meet you.” he said as he offered out a hand to her. She refused it however and took him into a bear hug. She was surprisingly strong for such a soft girl “My name is Pinkie Pie! It's so nice to meet you, Inno!”. He was about to protest her using that nickname, as only his friends could call him that…but she is technically his friend now. So he couldn’t exactly say no.

“N-Nice to meet you, Pinkie Pie…” he said as he felt his back pop a bit from the tight hug. She seemed to really enjoy hugging others as she was NOT letting go, even nuzzling against him for a moment before finally letting go of him, the colt taking in lungs full of air as he could breathe again “By the sun, you are much stronger than you look…” he said as he rubbed at his side a bit to dull the pain a bit. The filly smiled and sat on her haunches in front of him “Well, the tighter the hug, the more the message gets across if you ask me~.” she said as she idly bounced a bit where she sat.

Innocentius could tell this filly was a naturally energetic girl. And her love for all things sweet didn’t help with calming her down either. He couldn’t also shake the feeling that there was..something else. Maybe a different personality is hidden away perhaps? No one was this happy and friendly without hiding something, no matter how old they were. Innocentius offered her a smile before holding his book back up “Well, it was nice to meet you, but I’d like to get back to my book if that is alright with you. You caught me during my relaxing time and I would like to get back to that.” he said rather bluntly but in a kind tone of voice, hoping she’d get the hint.

“Oh, yeah for sure!” she said before giving him one more hug before standing up and running off with a big and wild wave “See you around, Inno!” she shouted with a smile on her muzzle. The colt waved back in return before returning his full attention to his reading material. Hopefully, he wouldn’t have any more interruptions for at least the next couple of hours as he really wanted to get ahead on getting closer to finishing the book. With the way it was going now, he was about to get to a very good part.

Innocentius places his bookmark into the book before closing it up and sighing with a smile “I hope they make it out of the castle in time before it disappears completely…” he said hopefully as he thinks about the group of adventurers in his book and their situation. As he placed his book back in his bag, he remembered he still had to go and return the last one he finished. So he gets up and dusts his pants off before heading to the library. Hopefully, he would find something good to read to finish out his summer with.

While he was browsing the selves of the library, he was dragging his index finger over the spines of the books until he came across a rather strange yet intriguing book. It was a black leather bound tome that had a light green glowing lizard across its spine. He blinked a few times before reaching up and attempting to grab it. But, a ghostly pale gray hand reached around it from the other side of the shelf and slowly pulled it into the darkness “Pardon me young man…that wasn’t supposed to be here…” the voice said in a rather heavy cajun accent. Innocentius blinked a few times before peeking in through the hole where the book was placed, seeing a rather pale gray HUMAN face with glowing green eyes and a wide toothy smile. He was about to scream out but the hand of the being placed his finger up to his lips before vanishing from existence. “W-What the fuck..?” he whispered to himself before he decided that maybe he should just leave and come back another day…

As he walked rather briskly from the library, he was suddenly stopped by Applejack who called out to him while running over “Hey, Inno! It has been a long time since Ah have seen ya around! How have…ya..been…?” she asked as she noticed just how much taller than her he was at this point. And that he had definitely been working out as well “Darn boys sproutin’ up like weeds every summer, I swear…” she said, a little annoyed that he now stood over her. But she shook her head and smiled at her best friend as he returned the greeting back.

“Hey there, AJ. It has been quite some time. How are Granny and the others?” he asked as they started walking once more. “Oh, they are doin’ alright. Ya haven’t been by the farm in quite some time, ya know? We were startin’ to get worried.” she said as she walked beside him with her hands behind her back. Innocentius offered her a sheepish smile before nodding “Well, a lot has happened over the past month. Needless to say I have been quite busy ever since one incident happened. So I have been working on getting stronger and in better shape.”. He said as he looked down at one of his hands as it glowed platinum for a moment.

Applejack nodded as she had heard rather unsettling rumors of his demise. But she didn’t want to bring it up because she was sure that it would dredge up unpleasant memories and she didn’t want to do that to him. “Well, yer lookin’ good, Inno. A big improvement over the little guy I am used to protectin’. Ah guess it was only a matter of time till ya didn’t need me lookin’ after ya anymore.” she said with a somewhat somber tone. Innocentius chuckles softly and reaches up and places a hand atop her head, gently rolling it around in his grip “Your jon as my best friend is far from over, AJ. I may be a bit bigger and stronger than you now. But, that doesn’t mean I won’t need your help to keep me out of trouble.” he said before removing his hand from her head “You chose to stick by my side, now you are stuck with me.” he said with a toothy grin.

Applejack closed an eye as she looked up at him with a returning smile. She was pleased to hear that coming from him. She didn’t know why, but she cared greatly for the colt, even if it had only been a little over a year that they had known each other, she felt like she had known him for over five or seven. And she would do anything to remain at his side. “You wanna come over and keep me company while I buck some trees? Ya don’t have to help. Mac hurt his shoulder a couple of days ago and has been out of commission.”. Innocentius arched a brow before nodding a couple of times “You know I don’t mind helping you out, AJ. Let’s swing by my place and I will go put on some work clothes.” he said before he started heading into the direction of his home with Applejack following behind.

Once he had gotten dressed properly for doing a little bit of labor, he and Applejack headed to the Apple Farm and began doing some apple picking. Well, he was doing the picking, she was doing the kicking. They were quite the team, however. Sure, she was moving faster because she was bucking the apples off their branches, but she was grateful to have Innocentius picking trees clean that she wasn’t working on. How he was doing it was a mystery to her. How in the world was he flying like that without wings?! She wasn’t going to question help though.

Soon enough, they were walking further into the orchard before they came across one of the dying apple trees. Applejack hoisted the axe she had brought with them onto her shoulder and sighed sadly “This here was one of our first ever apple trees, but it looks like she ain’t got much longer to live. Time to cut ya down, old girl.” she said as she reared back and got ready to start cutting. However, Innocentius grabbed at one of her wrists and smiled “Hold on there AJ, I wanna show you something I have been practicing..” he said as he walked over to the tree.

Applejack watched in curiosity as he walked over to the tree and placed his forehead on it, the colt bringing his hands to lean into the tree for a moment before he closed his eyes and breathed slowly before his horn, eyes, and hands glowed platinum. At this point, she knew what he was doing, or rather what it involved from him anyway. It took a moment, but the tree’s lifeless grey bark began to brighten into a more warm and brown color that a tree should heave, and the leaves and apple flowers bloomed on its branches as the tree looked as it did about twenty years ago. Applejack’s jaw fell as the axe did at her hooves “Well, I’ll be…would ya look at that?” she said as she placed her hands on her hips.

Innocentius pulled away from the tree and backed away as he looked up at it. He smiled at his handy as he hadn’t even broken a sweat after restoring such things to the tree. It would seem that his healing magic had truly gotten better with all of his practice, and he was pretty proud of himself for it. “Wel, looks like you won’t have to cut this one down for a little longer huh?” he asked as he placed his hands on his sides in triumph. Applejack picked up the axe and chuckled “Well, if you are in such a helpful mood, perhaps you can do the same thing to a couple of other trees I was supposed to cut down today?”.

And he did just that. He had saved her a lot of physical and emotional aching from cutting down those trees. Soon enough, they had finished the chores for the day and were now sitting on the porch with two large mugs of ice cold cider. Something he never got to finish enjoying all those months ago. And it was so incredibly good. After Applejack took a sip of her beverage, she looked over at Innocentius with a large smile of gratitude on her face “Thank ya kindly again, Inno. Ah couldn’t have gotten this done as quick as ah did without ya.” she said as she gently punched his shoulder as a sign of affection.

Innocentius smiled and gave a nod “Anything for you and your family, AJ. You have all been so sweet to me, so it is only fair I respond in kind. I will do what I can to help any of you out.” he said before turning back to look out over the farm just as Applejack did, both of them idly rocking in their rocking chairs as they relaxed the rest of the day away.

Author's Note

For those of you who are current readers of my other works, I hope you enjoyed the little easter egg/cameo I threw in. :3 Given the kind of character they are and what they can do, I couldn't pass up the thought.

May the darkness grant you peace.

Act 8: School Life Begins Once More

As summer had come and gone, it was again back to the school year for Innocentius and all the other foals in Ponyville once more and fall was fast approaching. Soon, the heat would vanish and the cold days and falling leaves would be upon Equestria before they knew it. What would hold in the near future for the colt? One could only hope this school year would be better than the last since his bullies no longer bothered him. No one could guess why that is…

After two full months of nonstop training, he wasn’t exactly the skinny, shrimp unicorn that was picked on because he chose not to do anything about it. Now, he stood about four inches taller than he was last, and he was definitely far more fit and toned than when he was a literal walking stick of a boy. He was buff to the point where he had a four pack at least. But, he was satisfied with his results and would only train the amount he needed to maintain that physique. Who knows? Maybe next summer he will push even further. But for now, academics were his focus.

When it came to matters of academics though, one would think that someone like him who enjoys reading in his spare time would be one of the smartest foals in the school, right? Innocentius was a smart kid in his own right of course, but he was a middle of the road kind of colt when it came to his grades. However, he did excel in some science and most biology lessons more than any other student. Possibly because of his cheats in knowing everything medical, medicinal, and alchemical. So he had his moments where he outshines everyone from time to time.

As he had always done before at each start of the year, Innocentius showed up a few minutes early on his first day to claim his seat for the year which was always the furthest back corner desk by the window. That’s right, he was one of those vacant eyed daydreamers who could get lost staring out the window if he wasn’t careful and not paying attention to the lesson. But, he didn’t really care so long as his grades were passing ones. As he found his seat for the year, he had a solid fifteen minutes before class would begin. So he simply removed his glasses and sat them on the underside of his desk where students could store their belongings and laid his head on his crossed arms as he began to doze off. A little nap before the day never hurt anyone.

Innocentius jerked awake as he heard the school bell ring and saw the first of the students pour into the classroom. The schoolhouse was divided up into different sections according to each foal’s year. Innocentius was beginning his final few years in this classroom. After which he’d be out of school to find himself a job or pursue higher education in Canterlot should he so choose to do so. Would he require some kind of medical teaching credentials in order to become a certified doctor in this world? He’d assume so at least.

As he watched the other students pour in, he noticed some vaguely familiar faces coming in with a few new ones. It wasn’t until he saw both Redheart and Applejack wandering in that his ears perked up and his eyes widened for a moment before going back to their normal state. He had to put his glasses back on to make sure that his impaired vision wasn’t playing tricks on him. But sure enough, there they were. Innocentius would be lying to himself if he said he wasn’t at least a little excited to have two close friends of his in his class with him. Maybe this year was going to be better than he’d hoped after all.
Out of the two of them, Redheart was the first to notice Innocentius, a smile forming across her muzzle as she was quick to slide right into the seat next to him “Well look at this! We get to be in the same class this year!” she said as she scooted her desk just a tad bit closer to his. Applejack watched the filly move in quick next to him and for some reason, it made her a little upset, but she couldn't figure out why. But she wasn’t going to take that lying down. So she quickly claimed the seat in front of him “Hey there, Inno. Looks like ya finally made it to my side of the school house huh?” she asked as she turned in her seat to face him.

Innocentius smiled at both of his friends before letting out a yawn as he stretched and then rubbed his eyes. Seems that his two closest friends would be keeping him company all year around which he was more than happy with. Of course, the other colts weren't too happy about him hogging the attention of two of the cutest fillies in the classroom. Not that it mattered to Innocentius, being the oblivious colt he was, he wasn’t really seeking any romantic relationships, at least not at this age. His interest in girls wasn’t for another year or two.

“It is so cool I get to have you two as classmates. Last year was pretty rough for me since I got bullied a lot. But, I think this year will be good.” he said with a reassuring nod as he fidgeted with one of his pencils before seeing the last fellow student make their way in. Whoever she was, she had every colt’s attention for sure. She had a curly dark purple mane and tail along with beautiful paper white fur, and beautiful sapphire blue eyes that could draw in many boys and maybe even some girls. However, Innocentius just gave her a once over and just thought of her as another student. Sure, she was cute, but that was just a passing thought to him.

“Oh right, Applejack, this is the neighbor and dear friend I was telling you about over the break, Redheart. And Redheart, this is my very first and best friend in the world, Applejack. I do hope you two can become friends as well. It would make me very happy.” he said as he looked between them hopefully. The two fillies gave each other a long and awkward stare before offering a smile to one another “Aaah, so you are the one who Inno says he has been spending his nights with on the rooftops, pleased to meet ya.” said Applejack as she offered a hand towards the other filly. “Indeed, and you must be the one who he refers to as ‘AJ’. Must be nice to be so close and cozy to share nicknames…” she said with a hint of resentment towards her potential rival, but took the offered hand and shook it firmly.

Innocentius couldn’t see it, but there was a fire in each of their eyes that screamed ‘I won’t lose to you…’, but to him, he was seeing a possible new friendship forming. He simply smiled at both of them before noticing the ‘glamor filly’ taking the seat diagonally from him. He simply shrugged before he and his two friends got in some chatter time before the class officially began while the colts in the room fought over who’d be sitting next to the new pretty filly, even going as far as to play rock, paper, scissors for it. Once the class had started, seated had been rearranged about ten times over due to deals and bets. The filly noticed how all the boys tripped and fought over themselves to get a seat next to her. All of them except Innocentius who was now just sitting there, looking out the window waiting for the teacher to begin the first lecture of the year. And that was enough to pique her interest in him. Somepony her charm didn’t seem to work on…
After Ms. Cheerilee had everyone going around the room introducing themselves for her and the other students’ sake, she began the first day’s teaching. This meant that it was Innocentius’s queue to proceed to stare vacantly out the window while passively absorbing most of the lessons. No wonder his grades weren’t the greatest, but they were never failing either. All the while the filly who had sat diagonally from him would steal glances every now and then.

After the longest first day ever, Innocentius grabs his backpack and makes for the door once the bell rings and waits outside for Applejack and Redheart to meet up with them. Once they do, they start to head home together, Applejack walking with them part of the way and Redheart heading into her own home once they finally get to their neighborhood. Thankfully, homework wasn’t given on the first day, so Innocentius hugged his mother after saying hello to her and made his way to his room to nap the rest of the early afternoon away. Today was a good day indeed.

Innocentius wakes up a few hours later, his hand twitching a bit as he slowly opens his eyes and grabs his glasses from the nightstand beside him before sliding out of bed and tossing on some casual clothes for the rest of the day. He shuffled his way out of his room to see his mother in the kitchen getting ready to make dinner “Hey Mom. Dad staying at the hospital late again?” he asked as he rubbed his eyes sleepily.

His mother came up to him and kissed his forehead with a smile before nodding as she returned to prepping dinner “Mhmm, one of his elderly regulars came in today complaining of shortness of breath. So he is going to stay overnight to make sure that the gentlestallion is well monitored and taken care of should he need him.” she said as she tied on her apron. Innocentius admired how his mother did so much around the house while his father was away making the money. She was like one of those old school stay at home mothers who did everything in her power to make sure her family was happy and healthy. And the colt respected her highly for it.

“Need any help with anything?” he asked as he stepped up beside her. She thought about it for a moment before remembering that she was short on a few things for dinner. When she made mention of this, Innocentius asked her to make a list and he’d go grab the items for her. That way, she could take a little time for herself while he was out. Once she gave him the list and a bit of money, he hugged her again before heading out to the market area of the town. He was always happy to help out his mother or father when it was something he knew he could do. After all, they take care of him every day.

As he made his way out of the market with the items in a couple of bags he carried, he noticed a pony carrying a LOT of stuff. From what he could tell, it was a bunch of folded and rolled up fabrics, and it was a filly carrying it all as well. The poor girl was struggling hard it would seem, but she was determined by the look in her eyes. But soon enough, she tripped on a rogue pebble that just got in her way and she went flying forward, spilling the contents of her bag. Innocentius watched as both adults and children walked past her as a pony even walked all over some of the fabrics, the filly getting ready to cry as she started picking up her items.

Inocentius sighed in annoyance at the ponies completely ignoring her as he walked up to her and knelt down to begin helping fold up the fabrics and neatly placing them back in the bags so that they were haphazardly hanging out of the sides “Some ponies…” he said to no one in particular as he helped her pick her things up. “Oh, thank you darling…so kind of you to help me with this-..” she stopped as she looked over to see who was helping her. It was the colt she had been stealing little peeks of earlier that day!

Once he looked over to the filly, he smiled and nodded his head to her in greeting “Oh, hello again. You are one of my desk neighbors.” he said as he finished filling up one of the bags as he had folded the fabrics into nice and tight squares so that they’d fit better. The filly was quite impressed at how neatly he had refilled her bags. He even separated them by color it seemed. “My goodness, never have I ever been able to get them as folded as tightly as that. You simply must teach me your technique!” she exclaimed as she looked up at him with a pleading gaze.

“Yeah well, when your father works at a hospital and he drags you along sometimes, you get bored enough to where you start helping out the nurses and help store blankets in the heating cabinets. You tend to make it your mission to stuff as many as you can in there,” he said with a sage nod. Once the bags were filled again, he picked up most of them and stood next to her “Alright, so where are these going?” he simply asked before picking up his own bags.

The filly picked up the last remaining bag before noticing that he was going to help her “O-oh..this way, please.” she said as she began to lead the way to her home. As they walked, there was nothing but silence between the two. The filly kept on staring up at Innocentius while in his mind, he was wondering what his mother was preparing for dinner tonight and he hoped he could get these ingredients home soon so he could eat soon!

Once they made it to her home, he sat the bags on her doorstep and offered her a smile before waving “Well, you take care now. And see you tomorrow at school. Bye!” he said as he started to hurry back across town to his own home. His mother was probably wondering where he was by now. “W-Wait! Please, come back!” she called out to him as she reached out toward him, but he was already gone down the road and out of sight. She never got to thank him for his selfless generosity and that didn’t sit well with her at all. She had to do SOMETHING for him.

Later as she sat down with her own family for dinner, she racked her brain over and over to figure out what would be the perfect thank you for him. Since fall was coming up, she’d make him something warm and cozy for him to wear. Perhaps not a sweater, but a scarf would be more of his style. Yes, she’d make him one that he would no doubt enjoy wearing whenever it got cold out wherever he was.

When the next day rolled around and Innocentius was sitting at his desk napping before the bell once more, the filly came in not too much later than he did and saw him snoozing away at his desk. She thought about not waking him up, but this may be the only time today that she’d get to speak with him alone. She huffed to herself as she approached him with a small white gift bag before gently shaking his shoulder.

Innocentius stirred slightly before lifting his head and putting on his glasses to see the filly he had run into last evening standing in front of him. He offered her a sleepy smile before nodding “Ah…good morning to you. I hope everything turned out well when you got everything inside yesterday?” he asked as he rubbed his eyes a bit.

She nodded before speaking “Well, I wanted to say thank you before you left, but you took off before I could say anything. But, I also wanted to give you something. So…here. I made this for you..” she said as she lowered her head slightly and held out the bag with both hands. Innocentius arched a brow before taking the bag gratefully before opening it, revealing a nice black scarf with yellow pinstripes running along it.

He let out a small gasp as he admired its craftsmanship before trying it on. As an anime nerd in his former life, there was something he had always wanted to try doing. He wraps one half around his neck, then the other around the lower part of his face. He then did a couple of martial arts poses before he began ‘naruto running’ around the room. At first, the filly watched on in awkward silence before letting out a wheezing laughter as she watched him acting so silly. Never in her life had someone made her laugh so hard.

“You know, I never did get your name..” he said as he came to a stop in front of her. After a bit more laughter, the filly finally caught her breath “R-Rarity, darling. A please to finally meet you properly.” she said with a smile and nod. “Rarity, huh? Well, thank you so much for putting in the work to make this for me, Rarity. My name is Innocentius. And I shall cherish this scarf forever.” he said as he nuzzled into it. This made Rarity beyond happy as he seemed to enjoy her thank you gift.

Author's Note

I think maybe three or four more chapters then I will end the 'child arc' and move on to the 'later teen/young adult' arc; from there. Whatcha guys think?

May the darkness grant you peace.