Chapters Pain sucks.
No really it does. Especially when you don't know why your in pain. One moment I'm with my sister on a hunting trip, the next my head feels like it's about to explode.
I was laying face first on the ground, groaning in pain from the headache. Slowly, I pushed myself into a kneeling position and looked around. What I saw defiantly was not what I thought I was going to see. There was nothing but a featureless black void. Every which way I looked only lead to more black. Panic was starting to set in when another being made it's presence know.
"Greetings James"
A shiver traveled up my spine at the voice. If I wasn't panicking then I certainly was now. I turned around as I jumped to my feet. Before me was a tall, menacing, cloaked figure with a BIG scythe. The figure pulled a slip of paper from somewhere inside the black cloth and looked at me with an amused smirk.
"James Fredric Hindenburg. Six foot ten, cropped blonde hair, jobless, philosopher by nature, more curious than any cat could ever try to be, anger management issues, and loving brother to six. Not the kind of person who normally ends up here instead of Purgatory." The being stated with slight interest in his voice.
"W-who are you?" My voice cracking as I spoke. I had a fairly good idea who I was standing before. The figure was silent for a moment before removing his hood, revealing his ashen skin looking me straight in the eyes.
"I am Death"
I was paralyzed. This just wasn't happening. It Couldn't be....
"But, How? I can't be... There's no way that I'm...." Death's face grew into one of confusion before growing sympathetic.
I fucking hate sympathy.
"But you are. Follow me young one, for you lived a peaceful life." I just stood there looking at the void below. Death waited patiently for me to follow. I didn't even look up from the ground.
"Show me."
Death sighed and waved his scythe to my left. I looked there and saw a swirling pool of color. I walked up to the portal and saw me and my sister hunting in the woods. We were just chatting as we were headed for the tree-stand when a gunshot rang through the air. The other me was sent flying into a tree as his brain painted the old oak red. My sister screamed before she was shot as well.
Death was about to close the portal but I raised my hand to stop him. Two more figures had shown up and I could tell they were local thugs. They laughed at our bodies and stole our rifles. They treated my sister's corpse like a trophy and pissed all over mine. Anger like I had never known built in me and I needed to destroy something. How I wished I was still alive so I could torture those sick and twisted Necrophiliacs.
"James. We must be going."
"No." Death stopped and turned to me.
"No?" I snapped. My fist rammed straight into the portal shattering it like glass and shot Death a glare that could compare to the ass beating I gave him in Dante's Inferno.
"NO! I REFUSE TO DIE! SEND ME BACK THIS FUCKING INSTANT SO I CAN RIP THOSE BASTARDS LIMB FROM FUCKING LIMB!" Death grinned and I have to say it would have been the most unsettling thing ever if I hadn't already witnessed my own death not two minutes ago.
"If that is the case, then I have a proposition for you." Death waved his scythe and the void turned into a stage. Orchestral instruments of all kinds lined the seats and stands as I looked around. Turning back to Death, I saw that he had changed from his cloak into a conductor's tuxedo, and switched his scythe for a baton. All the while, skeletons filled all but two of the seats as if ready to perform.
"If you do not wish to go on to paradise, I can grant you a new life as one of my agents." I found the deal to good to be true. Who wouldn't want to grab at a chance of escape from death's grasp? Anyone like me, that's who.
"I don't plan on losing my life because of some necrophiliac gang-banger so I have to ask, What's the catch?" Death's grin grew wider.
"I figured you would say that. There are many really." The skeletons in the violin section of the seats vanished leaving only two violins in there place. "One..." He gestured with his baton to the violin on the left "...is that I can not send you back to your world for your body, as you saw, is rather uninhabitable." The violin shattered with a flick of the baton. I was staring at the pieces as they lay on the floor while Death continued.
"Secondly, you will not be human afterwards if you accept, you will be turned into a Wraith." Wraith. I had heard of those before, but I can't remember where. "And lastly you will be sent on missions when I give them to you. Other than that you are free to do as you please." I wasn't completely happy about this, but I had already fucked up my last life. Prom was a good example of that. In the end (Literally) there was only one choice.
"Alright. I'll do it."
Death clapped his hands together and the remaining violin started to glow in a rainbow light. "Good, but I must warn you traveling to the new world and your transformation into a wraith will be quite painful. Oh and before I forget, you'll develop powers that are unique to yourself. and take these." Death pulled something from both his pocket and tossed them to me. I caught one in each hand giving Death a deadpan stare after looking at what they were. He had tossed me a pair of pistol grips. No barrel, hammer or trigger, just the grips. Each sporting engravings and a pair of holes.
"Those are your Wraith Weapons. Just say "Active Wraith Gun" and you'll see what they can do. Now just grab the violin to head on out." I walked up to the violin. The rainbow of colors it was giving off warmed me to my core. I couldn't help but smirk at the irony of the situation.
"Mom always was complaining that I needed to get a job." I grabbed the violin and started to play. the strings gave off no sound and the most beautiful thing song I ever heard as I was engulfed by light. I began falling as the light surrounded me and the violin disappeared.
AND HOLY FUCK HE WAS RIGHT ABOUT THIS BEING PAINFUL!!!
My body felt like it was lit on fire after being dunked in alcohol. This was the most painful thing I had ever agreed to! Ever! Of All TIME!
The worlds history was flooding my mind. Women and children, Slaughtered. An entire civilization, reduced to nothing. Screams flowing from every direction possible. I screamed along with all those souls when I couldn't take it anymore, passing out as my vision faded to black.
~The Symphony Has Begun~
I woke to find myself standing in a desert. There was a small town in the distance and judging from the history lesson I just had it was called Appleloosa. I took a step forward when a red scarf made itself know to me. I looked at myself instead of the scenery and found that I had a new wardrobe to go with the job.
Just so you know what I look like now I'll describe. Black, long sleeve shirt with a silver outline of a cross dominating the front and back; Tan cargo pants and steel-toe combat boots; Two gun holsters on my sides with the pistol grips somehow not falling out; Black, finger-less, plated gloves; and finally a ragged, torn, red and blue scarf around my neck, like Dastan from 'The Prince of Persia'. The scarf was smooth like silk but when I tried to rip it the thing might as well of been steel.
"Actually it's made of spider silk." I jumped as I turned to face Death standing next to me with a smile on his face. "Golden Orb-weaver to be exact. Very rare here in Equestria."
"Would you PLEASE not do that again." Death just chuckled.
"Now I know you just got here but I have a mission that needs to be done soon and the other Wraiths are a bit preoccupied in Manehattan." I wasn't really paying any attention to what he was saying as I was trying to get over the shock of him suddenly existing next to me. He pointed to some caves in the cliff face in the distance. "The targets are located in that cave over there. They are low level spirits so even a novice like yourself shouldn't have too much trouble. As soon as the mission is complete I'll send over someone to properly train you." Death turned to leave but stopped to look over his shoulder.
"And I let Dante win by the way."
"Wait what?" Before I got an answer, Death left in a way that I cannot describe. It wasn't a flash, or a poof, he just disappeared in less time than it took me to blink. I turned back to the cliff and sighed.
"Well, I guess I better get a move on." The walk to the cliffs was a long one, so I decided to see what my new toys could do. Pulling out only one I held it out in front of me.
"Wraith Gun Activate!" Blue tendrils shot out of my right arm and connected to the holes in the grip. Blue light poured out of the top and formed into a cobalt Desert Eagle. I let out a whistle at the craftsmanship of the handgun. even had a lion engraved into the sides. Then an idea came to mind and I pulled out the other gun. It activated automatically as I grabbed it, but with the difference of color. Instead of blue, the gun and tendrils in my left hand were red. That, however, wasn't what I was thinking of.
"Wraith Gun, Rapid Shot!" With that the twin pistols turned into a pair of TMPs. I just laughed at how cool this was. "Okay, that's enough goofing off. It's time to get to work." I deactivated my weapons and started running for the caves. While running, my mind kept drifting to one thought no matter what I tried to think of. Just how was I running this fast? This was stupid crazy levels of fast.
The caves were directly above me after a couple of minutes. A one liner was perfect for the moment.
It's show time."
"Grrrrrr... Just..." I was hanging from the face of the cliff by a branch.
"Gotta..." The cave was up and to the right from my current position.
"Grab..." I found some footholds but was having trouble reaching the next one.
"Rock......" I grabbed it and started to pull myself up when the rock gave way. I barely hung on to the branch as I started dangling.
"DAMN IT!" I was pissed and at a loss. I was just hanging there, swaying in the breeze. I was about to see if my weapons had a grapple function when I heard a southern accent from above.
"Ya need some help there partner?" Looking up at the cave I could see a yellow pony with a orange mane staring at me. The most ridiculous part of the entire spectacle was the stetson and vest he was wearing.
"NO I DON"T NEED ANY HELP! I CAN DO THIS ON MY OWN!" I started swinging on my branch while making vain attempts at grabbing the ledge to the point was swinging my arm wildly. The pony just raised an eyebrow and smiled awkwardly. My branch started to give way from the cliff and I grabbed onto it for my life... err... Unlife. The pony reached behind himself just as the branch gave way and I began to fall. I screamed for about five seconds before I felt a tug on my right leg. Looking up I saw that the pony had lassoed me and was pulling me up.
When the pony had gotten me up I huffed while turning away. "Didn't need your damn help..."
The pony just chuckled "Yer welcome." We just sat there for a while before he spoke up again. "Names Braeburn."
"I'm James." more silence floated around for awhile.
"....Ya mind me askin' ya a question?"
I decided to humor him. "Shoot"
"Why were ya tryin' ta climb up a cliff face when there was a trail right there?" I looked past the pony and sure enough there was a sloped path that snaked up the side to the top and bottom. I stared at the path before curling up in a ball at the corner of the caves entrance and cried.
.
I hadn't noticed it, but the sun was setting when I was hanging from the branch. Braeburn and I were sitting in front of the campfire that he had set up using Branchy the Reliable. He was drinking from a canteen and I was roasting a marshmallow with a twig. When he was done, Braeburn let out a content sigh. He looked at the drink in his hooves then turned to me.
"Thirsty?" Despite all the marshmallows I had eaten, I was still kinda peckish. Though a drink should help that.
"Sure." He tossed me the canteen and I took a large swig. The taste of apples flooded my brain and by George it was delicious. I smacked my lips together savoring the flavor while giving an approving nod. "That's some good stuff." Braeburn grinned and stuck his chest out in pride.
"'Course it is. That there is Apple family cider. The best cider there is."
"I'll take your word on it." I leaned back while tending to my mallow, pulling the flaming ball of goo from the fire. I puff of air and it was ready to eat. Braeburn looked up at the moon and got up to stretch.
"You can head on ta bed, I need ta keep watch."
"Watch? For what?" Braeburn turned to me and furrowed his brow.
"Some Bandits have been terrorizin' Appleloosa lately and ponies have been disappearin' from town every time they show up. They certainly are a weird lookin' bunch I'll tell ya that. I would of just left this ta Sheriff Silverstar and his deputes but they were some of the first ta vanish. I was dubbed sheriff until we find him. So far, I've tracked them to this here cave, but I can't seem ta catch any of 'em." I was shocked to say the least. But a thought came to mind. I had learned of the general knowledge of the ponies from the entry into Equestria. I decided to ask about the Bandits to see if I could find an anomaly that would point to anything supernatural.
"What exactly do the Bandits look like?" Braeburn sat tapping his chin for a moment.
"Well... They all had the same colors. White an' green... They all had these glowin' eyes too." To emphasize his point he went wide eye'd and wiggled his hooves next to his face.
"They could have died there colors, and the glowing eyes could be magic."
"That's what Ah thought, but that's not the weirdest part..." He shuttered as he remembered the image. "...They ALL had the same cutie mark. A single, colorless eye."
Now that was just not natural. Identical cutie marks was completely impossible. Something was going on and I was pretty sure whatever Death sent me after was behind this.
'The 'Bandits' are probably possessed ponies... note to self, use non-lethal attacks.......Do these things have a non-lethal function?'
I realised that taking Braeburn with me would be putting his life at risk, But with his position as the law man (temporary or not) I couldn't ask him to stay behind.
"Hey Braeburn? Mind if I help you with this?" Breaburn was taken aback before he started grinning.
"Yer willin' ta help a total stranger?" I just rolled my shoulder and cracked my neck.
"Well you did save my life so it's the least I can do." Braeburn laughed and tipped his hat back.
"Now aint that something! I've been needin' some help ever sense my posse vanished yesterday. Welcome aboard partner." With that we shook hand and hoof. We talked about what he knew about the bandits and what they did. Apparently they had a color system for all the hideouts they had occupied. Braeburn wouldn't tell so I headed into dreamland while he kept watch.
When the sun rose I yawned and stretched my tired arms. I took a look around and saw that Braeburn had fallen asleep on the log across from me. I decided that he needed some sleep after staying up longer than myself. I glanced at the cave, A crazy idea running through my head. I walked into the cave and found a fork in the path.
Well now what? I noticed during my pondering that there was a white rock lying on the ground in the middle of the right path, and a unnaturally black one in the left. I could go on without Braeburn or head back and grab the cowpony. Going back for Braeburn was the better option to keeping his trust. I got about half way back when I saw Braeburn walking into the cave.
'Crap, now I got to explain why I left.'
"Hey Braeburn! Sorry for bailing earli-" Breaburn ran past me in a blur screaming his head off.
"RUUUUUN!" I looked back towards the entrance and saw a mob green ponies headed straight for us.
I couldn't agree with Breaburn more.
James Vs. Possessed Bandits
James vs. Possessed (Theme)
We ran like the devil was at our heels. The fork in the road came up and I was about to panic or do something stupid. "WHAT PATH DO WE TAKE!?"
"HEAD FOR THE WHITE PATH! THE BANDITS ALWAYS MARKED THE SAFE PATHS WHITE!" Braeburn turned right and headed into the path, only to stop when he realized I didn't follow him. "What are ya doin'!"
Turns out it was something stupid.
"Keep going, I'll hold them off! Mark the paths you take at every fork! Hurry!" He was about to protest when I pulled my weapons out. "WRAITH WEAPON ACTIVATE! NON-LETHAL!" A light show later I was sporting a pair of high tech stun dart launchers connected to my arms by a single tendril each and Braeburn had run on ahead. The possessed ponies were about 50-35 feet from me when they stopped their charge. I glared them down before flipping them the bird.
"BRING IT BITCHES!" Three of the possessed accepted my challenge and ran forward. I shot the two on the sides and pistol whipped the third, electrocuting him on contact. "Huh, looks like these do have some close combat capabilities. Heh-oh Shit!" Apparently the possessed didn't like my alliteration cause another six ponies had started to advance forcing me to flee. As I ran the possessed followed closely. about five got close enough to grab my legs and slow me down. They got smack-shocked hard in return.
Most of the time I was shooting behind me blindly. I managing to hit some every now and then, but most of my shots ricocheted off the walls, missing completely. I kept following the marks that Braeburn had left and caught up to him and oh how I wish I hadn't.
We were standing in the middle of a massive intersection. There were tunnels leading every which way. Every one of them had a stone on them, but none of them were white. For once in my life I wasn't panicking, Braeburn was. "Darn it. Where the hay do we go from here?" I looked back at the tunnel and saw the possessed had caught up.
"Braeburn! I hope your ready for a fight!" A pony jumped on my back before I elbowed him off and shot him in the crotch. "Cause a real big one just followed me here!" A pony tried to do the same trick to Braeburn, but he bucked the Bandit in the gut before pulling out his lasso and hogtying the unconscious pony.
"Alright then, ya'll are under arrest!"
The combined assault of the possessed was no match for us. They fell like flies as I shot, pistol whipped, and kicked while Braeburn bucked and lassoed. Every time one of us would get overwhelmed (mostly Braeburn) the other would takeout the extras. By the time we were done, not a single one was left standing.
"Aw yeah! We Rock!" I started dancing a little victory gig just cause I could, but Braeburn had to burst my happy bubble.
"We're not finished yet partner." awwwww. "I need yer help tyin' up these varmits." oh, okay. When Braeburn and I had finished hogtying them, one of the Bandits started to glow with a purplish light. And by purplish, I mean it was almost black and had a violet sheen to it.
"Uhhhh..... Braeburn?" He turned to look at me from tying a final knot on the last bandit.
"Yeah?" I pointed to the now hovering pony.
"Are ponies supposed to do that?" Braeburn looked to where I was pointing and went wide eyed.
"Nnnope"
The unconscious bandit soon fell out of the aura and a entirely different pony fell out. No longer was she green but was orange with a brown mane. The aura was growing as it removed more from the other bandits turning them back to normal. Once the aura was finished collecting itself, it shot into one of the caves and disappeared. One of the ponies was waking up noticed us while grabbing his crotch.
or at least attempting to, despite the bindings he was in.
"Braeburn, Why the hay am I tied up? And who bucked me below the belt." Braeburn was slack-jawed for a while before he was able to talk any further.
"SHERIFF!?" I did a double take looking back between the Sheriff and Braeburn.
"Wait. HE'S the Sheriff?" Braeburn nodded.
"The one that went missing?" Another nod.
I went over to the sheriff and untied him, only for him to buck me in the crotch, 'I did kinda deserve it.' He was confused, in pain, but most importantly PISSED. It took a while but we managed to calm him down and not kill me or my children. Although that does raise an big question.... 'can wraiths have kids? Schme. I'll ask Death later. Braeburn's done calming Sheriff Silverstar down.'
"So yer sayin' that some sorta magic made the first group ah Bandits, and then said Bandits were kidnappin' the towns folk in order ta make more?"
"That's pretty much what all I've found points to. Especially after seein' it happen right in front of my eyes." I looked around the cave taking note of all the ponies covering at the sight of me, before tapping him on the shoulder. I pointed over to the crowd and he facehoofed. which in all honesty is kinda funny to watch. "Don't Worry Ya'll! He's friendly!" Most of the ponies were still nervous but had started to come up to me after they were untied. One in particular surprised me.
"Excuse me, mister?" I looked down and saw a colt, not even half the size of the other ponies. "What are you?" I normally would have been offended but he was just a kid, and kids have a tendency to be rude without knowing it. Like that one time an eight year old called me the 'nicest weirdo ever!' after saving his cat from a tree by face planting into the ground.
"Well I'm a human." The little guy's eyes went wide with wonder as a smile spread across his mussle.
"Are you the one who saved us from those mean ponies Mr. Human?" I smiled and knelt down to rub his head.
"Yep, but don't give me all the credit kiddo. Braeburn helped too. Now..." I stood up and looked to every pony in the room. I hadn't noticed but they all had been listening to our conversation intently. "...let's get everyone home." Cheers rang out from the ponies. I even saw a few hats getting tossed into the air. As I was leaving I noticed a certain cloaked figure standing at one of the caves entrances. I pulled Braeburn aside for a moment.
"You go on ahead. There's... something I need to take care of." he was confused for a moment, but saw some ponies headed the wrong way.
"Alright, just hurry on out once yer done." Braeburn rounded up the stragglers and soon every pony had left the room. I turned to Death as he entered the center of the room. He wore the same neutral expression with a slightly agitated look.
"Your mission is still unfinished."
I scoffed "Figured as much, guessing you want me to go after that aura?"
"That would be the general idea. That 'aura' is a possesser. It was your target and needs to be delt with soon James." I sighed. It figured that my new boss would do this.
"I'll get to that after I get these civilians back home. They're innocent and need to be helped." Death glared at me and raised his scythe to my trout.
"Devouring that soul is your Top Priority. You better have it done soon or I'll take it's soul and your's myself." With that death left once again.
Shit. What have I gotten myself into?
.
I had gone back to Braeburn and told him what I was about to do (I left out the part about working for Death of course) and he was reluctant about leaving me alone to deal with it. But he was needed to get everyone out of the cave. I had also remembered where I had heard of wraiths before now. The whole soul sucking thing kinda freaked me out, but I figured that if I suck to non-sentient life that I'd be fine.
One thing had proven itself over the past..... three hours? I don't know anymore.... Finding this stupid possessor was proving harder than I thought. Cause Damn these tunnels are dark. Maybe mocking the thing would work.
"You who~ Purple ghostie~ Come out and play~" I stood there for a moment watching and listening for anything. All I got was an echo. "Well that didn't work." I grumbled as I kept walking further into the caves. I was bored out of my mind, tired, and- "Hey what's that smell?" I took a couple of sniffs and followed the sent to it's source. I was surprised that the smell was from one of my favorite foods.
"No way... How the hell is there a Papa John's here?" I picked up the box and cautiously opened it to reveal a nice and hot Meat Lovers Pizza.....With Jalapenos... mother... fucking....JALAPENOS! My mouth was watering at the sight of pizza perfection and I grabbed a slice. I looked around the room and checked to see if any traps were set around the immediate area. I even checked the pizza slice in my hand. Seeing nothing wrong I dug in to the pizza.
Only for the slice to poof into purple dust between my teeth. Worse yet it was artificial grape flavored.
I spit out the dust while gagging as laughter echoed through the cave. "Okay, Who did that!" the laughing was cut short when the glowing purple light of the possessor oozed out of the walls and coalesced about 5 feet away from me. The form grew and eventually there was a jester's head floating infront of me. Jingling bells and all.
"What's the matter? I thought you wanted to play? YAHAHAHAHAHA!" I pulled out my weapon and fired a shot only for his astral head to open a hole for the bullet. "Missed me~....HAHAHAHA! If you want to beat me you're going to have to do better than that.~" The head morphed into a blob once more and bounced down the tunnels.
"COME BACK HERE SHIT HEAD! YOU OWE ME A PROPER PIZZA!!!!" I bolted after the blob, spewing insults as the tunnels sped past me, the trickster laughed harder as the verbal abuse continued. The chase didn't last long as I entered the mass junction once more, but with a noticeable crack in the ceiling that let a couple light beams into the otherwise dark cave. The jester had formed himself a proper body and I took in the details of his appearance. He had goofy, feathered sleeves and pants that looked like they belonged in a old Ren-fair, complete with the jingle shoes. Every last part of him had green, white, and purple stitched together. He was cackling at something in front of him as he bent over to look at me from between his legs. His pale face had a manic grin plastered on it.
"It's about time you showed up. I was beginning to wonder if you got lost." I glared at the Harlequin before continued. "I just so happen to have a little friend for you to meet." He moved over to the side and revealed a tall, pale man clad in overalls, and a white-grey plaid shirt with a pick-ax in his hands. His facial features were masked by the shadow cast from his helmet. there was something about this guy that told me 'non-lethal' was not an option if he attacked.
"This WONDERFUL man's name is Carlos Grancia. He died in such an unfortunate mine collapse that I simply HAD to save him. Did that freaky clown say 'died?' If that's the case then then I guess non-lethal would be kinda redundant. I told him that if he could kill a wraith here in this world that he could go back to his loving family. Carlos snarled as his gaze moved towards me. You two play nice now~. HAAAHAHAHAHAHA" The jester jumped into a crystal on the far wall, leaving me with the tall miner who was readying his pick. I sighed before getting into a combat stance with a TMP at the ready.
"Today just isn't my day is it?"
James Vs. Carlos Sentiment
(Carlos Sentiment Theme)
Carlos roared like an animal into the air and what little light was in the room was absorbed in to his helmet's flood light, leaving only red circles where his eyes pierced through the dark. I stumbled around until my eyes adjusted. When they did I could see multiple copies of Carlos made from pure yellow light.
The Carlos' moved slowly forward as I shot multiple bullets into each clone, causing them to disappear from sight. For every clone that was defeated two more would take their place. It was around then that I noticed the pair of red dots moving about and started aiming for those. Soon after I fired Carlos cried out in pain and the light he had captured was released from his helmet.
I blinked a couple of times to clear my sight and ducked just as Carlos' pick embedded in the wall where my head was a second ago. I could see the wounds I had inflicted as smoke was leaking from several holes in his right arm. Carlos took the moment and delivered a crushing blow to the side of my face with his knee, causing me to fly into the wall. I slowly pulled myself from the rubble and fell to my knees.
"Fuck that hurt...." I glanced up at Carlos who was absorbing the light once more. "I'm gonna need something with a bit more accuracy." The clones had appeared and started their advance. "Or a lot of flash." I jumped out of the way as one of the Carlos clone's attacks smashed into the rock. I quickly shifted my weapons into some Sawed-off shotguns while blasting away a clone away. the clone flew back into the real Carlos, sending both sprawling until the clones vanished again. Carlos roared again but the light remained as he charged me.
I countered his strike with my own as the butt of my gun smashed into his face. I wailed on him as he staggered back, and eventually knocked him into the air. As he fell back down, I finished my combo with two shot to his abdomen. I decided about then that it needed a name and said the first thing that came to mind.
"Boomstick Beat" As Carlos landed on the ground, he cried in agony as his body collapsed on itself and formed a small yellow sphere. It hovered where he once was and looked like it was made of crystal. I walked not a foot before that purple madman bounced back into existence, holding a cane that had a replica of his head on the end.
"Well it seems like Carlos wasn't able to keep up his end of the deal. Oh well, It's not like I was going to revive him anyways. As for you, I hope you enjoy your prize~" The Jester took the cane and shot the topaz ball at me with the precision of a professional golfer. I caught it in my hand as he turned to retrieve something from the inside of his shirt. He pulled out a large black wad of cloth and tossed it at my feet before vanishing into a miasma. It was a rubber costume of Death, complete with a cardboard scythe. "I hope you liked my performance earlier~ Ol' Deathy is so hard to copy right. YAAAAHAHAhahahaaaa.......
Soon after he left I heard a tone ring in my mind. "James, what happened? I haven't been able to contact you for the past 5 hours." I blinked in surprise.
"Death? That you?"
"Yes and you can talk to me telepathically. Even though you appear to be alone at the moment, it will help you from looking like some crazy when in crowds." I gave an approving nod before realizing that Death himself wasn't able to contact me. Which brought forth a new question.
"While that's nice and all, Can you explain who the fuck that was just now?"
"..........Was it a purple jester?"
"Uh....Yeah actually, that's right on the money." I couldn't believe it, but I think I had just made Death groan.
"I thought he was dealt with centuries ago. James listen to me carefully, His name is Hamlet. He was once a wraith I hired from the 1500's, but he somehow turned into that demon you just met after he went mad. You must not try to eliminate him on your own. You'd be killed in less than a second." Worry filled my thoughts as I remembered our little chase through the tunnels. I sure hoped that he didn't take the 'comments' about his mother too seriously."Thankfully he can't do anything without a sediment nearby, and it seems you found the one I sent you after.
"Hey Death?.. This 'Hamlet' guy said something about promising Carlos that he could live again." Death materialized next to me in his tuxedo, staring at the ball in my hands .
"That is one of Hamlet's ploys in stealing the powers of his victims. He makes promises for the impossible and once you complete your end of the bargain he takes all of the power for himself." I looked at the sphere as I held up to the beams of light coming from the ceiling. It made a single image appear on the side. On the sphere was a picture of Carlos, but there was a little girl grabbing his leg and a slender woman holding his hand.
"Death... Who was Carlos Grancia?" Death reached into his front pocket and pulled a slip of paper just like when we first met.
"Carlos Grancia.... Loving father and husband.... Died when one of his fellow miners went crazy and triggered a cave in, killing him and 9 others. His soul was the only one I wasn't able to recover that day." I let out a sigh, realizing that the image I looking at was one of Carlos' memories, and that the sphere was what was left of his soul. I knew that Hamlet was probably... no, Absolutely responsible for his death. Carlos, a man that I never knew, had been ripped from his family by a psychopath. a little girl would grow up without a father because of it.
I was beyond pissed. I held the soul to the light once more and stared at the reflecting memories of his past.
"Carlos. I don't know if you can hear me. But I swear, on my very soul, I will make that bastard pay for what he has done." As I finished a picture of Carlos crying with a smile on his face flashed across the sphere. I looked towards Death as he gave me a curt nod. Without any hesitation I placed the soul in my mouth. A feeling of peace rushed through my body from my core, followed by a chill running up my spine. I gazed at the light once more, raising my palm to it. The light washed over my hand like it had been stuck into a waterfall of ethereal energy, bending to my will as I saw fit. I shot some energy at the wall and focused it into a point as I began carving the stone.
"James I'm a bit curious..." I turned to Death. His face had one of interest and confusion "...Why did you promise that? The chances of you winning against Hamlet are near impossible." I didn't have any hesitation with my answer.
"Because. No one deserves to grow up with out their father. I lost mine when I was 12 and had to help raise three younger siblings. Hamlet will pay for causing that little girl such pain." I left the caves after saying goodbye to Death. Now if you head into that alcove, you'll find a large rock carved into the shape of a cross. At the center, words that shined as the light hit them were carved in the most delicate of writings.
______________________
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A Canterlot Symphony Act 1: Letter Of Summons
A Canterlot Symphony
(ost)
I've been staying in Appleloosa for about a week now. Even met a couple of buffalo, which was pretty cool. They almost fainted at the sight of me though. Kinda disheartening, but understandable. After all, I was a supposedly extinct race. Death said that tracking Hamlet would take anywhere from a week to a full year and that I shouldn't worry myself. So instead of worrying I would normally spend my time helping around the fields and performing small light shows with the powers that I got from Carlos. Heck I could stare at the sun now like it's a light bulb under water. The foals would get a kick out of it every time I made a ball of light bounce off of somepony's nose, it would always be a random pedestrian too.
Braeburn's had a interesting past two days himself. Just yesterday he got a letter from his cousin, in reply to his own about me, saying that she knows a human that lives in her hometown of Ponyville named Dean. He even had been given some time off for stopping the bandits (Even though it was mostly my doing, but try telling that to a sheriff who's still miffed about getting tazed in the crotch. I mean it's not like I knew it was him!) and was relaxing next to me under some trees just watching the sunset. Of all the ponies that I had met I found a friend in him and him alone, but that's what happens when you meet someone who resembles your family.
'Family........I hope they're doing okay after what's happened.' I thought to myself. I stared at the sun as it was setting in the distance.
"Ya okay there James?" I tore my gaze from the celestial light and noticed Braeburn's concerned eyes staring at me.
"Yeah, just thinking of home."
"Missin' yer family?" I gave Braeburn a nod. He didn't press further and got up to pop his back before sitting back on his haunches. We sat there for the rest of the afternoon staring at the sun as the final rays pierced the darkening sky.
"Mr. James! Mr. James!" Or at least we probably would have if a certain young colt hadn't started running up to us. That's right, yesterday afternoon during a light show, the kid from the caves declared himself my number one fan. The kid's name was Chocolate Apple. He was brown with a red mane/tail, and no cutie mark. He had a scroll in his saddlebags and was headed right for me. I also noticed a very unhappy, off-yellow pegasus chasing him. Chocolate skidded to a stop and was panting as he grabbed the scroll.
"Mr......James.......Ah have......a letter...... fer ya......phew." The pegasus had caught up and snatched the letter back.
"Finally caught you you little thief!" I stood up and walked over to the pegasus. His eyes went wide for a moment before he cleared his trout. "Y-you must be this 'James' I was told about. I have a summons for you from the castle" He tried to handover the letter, but I stood there refusing to accept it. "Is there a problem sir?"
"Yes, could you care to explain to me what all the fuss over that letter was about?" The pegasus snorted and looked at Chocolate.
"This colt here snatched my letter away while I was asking for you location." Chocolate blushed and started rubbing the back of his head. I raised a brow and started tapping my foot after directing my gaze to him.
"You care to explain?" Chocolate was kicking the ground with a hoof.
"When ah heard the letter was fer you. Ah thought ah could get my cutie mark in mail delivery by bringing it to you. I guess it wasn't such a good idea, was it?" My expression softened as his ears fell. Kneeling down to his height I rubbed his head, tossing his messy mane everywhere.
"No it wasn't. The next time you get a crazy idea like that, ask if you can help. 'kay?" His head moved faster that then I could see as it turned into a blur. "Good, now I think you owe somepony an apology." Chocolate turned around to the pegasus and hung his head.
"I'm sorry." The pegasus gave a nod and Chocolate smiled before running off. I turned to the guard and took my letter. He took off at blinding speeds as I opened it up to see some beautiful calligraphy on the blackish blue side of the paper done in silver ink.
Dear James,
After hearing of your endeavors in Appleloosa from our dear sister's pupil Twilight Sparkle, and her friend Applejack. We would like to request thine's presence in Canterlot for an audience. We would be ever so pleased if thou could attend post haste.
Her Royal Majesty, Princess Luna
Braeburn was looking up at me after I finished reading. "So what's it say?"
"Apparently I have an appointment with Princess Luna..." Death popped into my head right about then.
'I suggest heading for Canterlot immediately, it would be easier to start your training over there.' He left after I gave him a mental salute.
"...Braeburn do you know the fastest way to Canterlot." Braeburn stood there with his mouth hanging open before shaking his head clear (heh, man is that a funny sight) before looking at the sun's position.
"There's a train that leavin' fer Ponyville in about half an hour. If ya stay on board when it gets there it should take ya straight to Canterlot." I gave him a big thumbs up and called over my shoulder as I ran into town.
"Thanks! I'll be back as soon as I can!" I ran for a while and the town was dead ahead. I decided to walk the rest of the way, just cause I had time to kill. I was passing the saloon (Yes you heard right, saloons exist in a land of colorful ponies) when some of the local kids stopped me.
"Mr. James! Can you show us some tricks!" "Yeah! Do that one with tiny humans fighting each other!" "No, do that one with the tiny ball! Make it bounce off Sheriff Silverstar's nose this time!" I cringed internally at the last one of those but gave a smile to the kids.
"I'd love to guys but I have a train to catch." All of them voiced their disappointment, mostly in the form of 'Aawwwwww'. One little filly pushed her way to the front and looked up at me.
"But where ya goin'?" I smiled and gave her a pat on the head.
"I just have to go to Canterlot for a bit. Then I'll be running back here as fast as I can!" They all cheered and ran off to do whatever they were doing before I showed up. I saw one troublemaker look around before grinning like a fox as he pulled out some fireworks from behind a barrel. I just shook my head and walked to the train station. Right as the train pulled in, I felt a tug on my leg. The little filly from before was there with a letter.
"Could you please give this to the Princesses?" I picked up the letter and was about to open it when she bucked my shin. "No peaking! That's for the Princesses eyes only!" I just chuckled and apologized for trying to read the royal mail as I placed it in my pocket. She smiled and ran off to join the others yelling 'Thank you' as she went. I hopped into the train after paying for my ticket and found a nice car to rest in. I leaned back on one of the seats and thought that a nap was well deserved. It didn't last long as a food trolley came out and knocked on my door. It opened to reveal an elderly mare with her hair in a bun.
"Would you be interested in something deary?" I looked over the cart and noticed some cupcakes. She followed my gaze and handed me one before I even asked. I just smiled and handed her the money as she left. I ate my cupcake over the course of the trip, and it was pretty uneventful other that it going from desert to plains. When the train reached Ponyville I was amazed at the size of it. I mean it looked like such a small town from a distance. The train had stopped at the station and the elderly mare came round again.
"Excuse me, I hate to be rude, but when will the train continue on to Canterlot?" The mare just gave me a friendly smile before answering.
"The train will be stopped for about...oh....another 40 minutes before we head on to Canterlot. Until then you can either wait here on the train or step off for a moment to tour Ponyville. Have a nice day now." I decided to wait on the train and enjoy the privacy that came with that decision.
'I've been needing some rest for a while now. Especially after helping the Apples for a week with all those....well, apples.' I leaned back on the cozy seats and slept for the rest of the trip.
for real this time.
.
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A Canterlot Symphony Act 2: A Surprise Companion
A Canterlot Symphony
When I woke up the train had started to move again and was well out of Ponyville. I looked out the window as the locomotive entered the caves leading up the mountain. The moment all light was gone from the booth I felt my chest tighten. I don't know if it was from my new powers or if I got a really bad feeling about heading to Canterlot. It turned out to be Death taking the seat across from me. We exited the tunnels with him scaring the shit out of me.
"Hello again James."
"Would you please stop doing that." Death smiled and pointed to the castle that had come into view.
"There is someone I want you to meet in Canterlot once you get there, You'll know who she is right away." I was guessing it was the princess or something. I mean I was already heading for the castle anyways. "Oh and just so you know. It seems like you have a new friend following you." Death vanished and took with him the seat cushion he was sitting next to, revealing a very shocked and exposed Chocolate.
"Um....Hi?" I groaned as my face said hi to my palm.
"Choc? What are you doing here?" I stared at the colt as he shifted nervously. He couldn't see it but I was mildly panicking about the return trip if he was here. 'I hope that Chocolate asked his mom first, if not, Appleslice is going to kill me............ again.'
"I wanted to see if I could get my cutie mark somewhere in Canterlot. So I asked my mom if I could follow you." He smiled as innocently as he could. I narrowed my brow and looked him in the eyes.
"Was her answer yes?"
"Um..... Maybe?" I groaned and facepalmed again. Looking out the window, I could see that the city was almost upon us. I could already hear Appleslice yelling at me, but it wasn't like I took him with me on purpose or could take him back now.
"Well, it's not like I can just send you back..." Chocolate started to beam, but was quickly sniped in the bud "BUT!...You'll have to listen to me for the entire trip. Okay?" He gave me a wholehearted salute and sat in the seat next to me. It didn't last long as the train station was only a couple of minutes away. I stepped off the train and Chocolate followed. The moment that my feet hit the street I heard someone yelling.
"CUUUUUUUUUUUNNNNNNNNNNNNT" Me and Chocolate looked around and found many ponies doing the same that were either confused, offended, or both. Chocolate looked up at me and was really confused.
"Mr. James... what's a cu-?" My face went red and I quickly covered his mouth. I looked around again and saw ponies laughing or looking at me with mild interest, but most were still offended.
"Y-your mom will...tell you when your older....so uh... OH HEY! THERE'S THE CASTLE LET'S GET GOING!" The walk was mostly uneventful aside from the stares I kept getting, but I had gotten used to those. We were about a quarter of the way there when Chocolate pulled on my leg. He was pointing to some fast-food joints and was giving me the 'puppy-dog' eyes. It was super-effective, and I forked over the cash for his meal while I just got a magazine. It featured some article about a royals and it got me thinking.
'With my luck I'm going to get roped into something fancy, I'll probably get an invite from the royal themselves too.' I took a quick look at myself and noticed that my appearance was... less than appealing. I took notice of a clothing store and decided that I needed some more duds.
"Hey Choc. We're going to make a couple of stops before we get to the princesses, okay." He wasn't really paying attention and gave a muffled 'yes sir' through his hayfries. I got up and we headed to the establishment. Right as he saw that there were dresses everywhere, he tried to bolt through the solid wood door. "Nice try bud, but you wanted to come with me on this trip."
"But dresses are for girls!" Did he really just.... I need to laugh.....badly.
"We're not here for dresses bud. I thought that some new clothes were in order..." I looked down at him and smirked "... for me of course." I walked up to the pale, yellow coated mare who had walked in and was surprised to see me for all of three seconds before letting out a small giggle.
"I didn't think that I'd find another human in my shop so soon." Wait, another? I guess that means the chick I'm supposed to meet is another wraith.
"It's nice to meet you mam. I was wondering if you could make me some spare clothes, if it's not too much trouble."
"Not at all, I actually enjoy making clothes for you humans." She shuddered for a moment "Even if my last client was... frightening." I decided that it would be best not to ask. No sentient being shudders like that without a good reason.
"I'll take your word for it." She smiled and ushered me over. I complied while Chocolate sat in the lobby bored out of his mind. She asked me to take off my clothes (Not for that you sickos) and took some measurements. She was humming a little tune as she worked and it was kinda catchy.
"There! Now that the measurements are done, I'd like to know what kind of attire your needing."
"Well if my current streak of luck is anything to go by, I'll be needing a suit." She just stared at me and quirked an eyebrow. "Just trust me on this." She shrugged and went to work, making comments on how little scaring I had. (Which was VERY weird but probably has to do with some other costumer that was here) It didn't take her very long either. She was done in about half an hour, which was more than enough time for Chocolate to fall asleep.
"Your suit is done sir."
"WOW! This is... Amazing!" She blushed like mad, but I wasn't joking. It was one damn fine suit. It was also black but instead of a cross completely covering it, the cross was limited to the pocket on the front, and on the cuffs she had embroidered some wisp-like trails in, you guessed it, blue and red. managed to get the sides right too.
"Oh it really wasn't any trouble at all. Now that will be fifty bits for the suit please." I handed her the money while she folded my attire into a nice bundle and boxed it. After I reentered the lobby, Chocolate stopped what he was doing (which was reading some fashion magazine for some reason) and followed me outside. We got a little further when some guards stopped me.
"Is there a problem sir?" The guards narrowed their eyes at me and Chocolate. He didn't even say anything, he just pointed behind....
us....
oh.
The street from the dress shop back was a disaster area with carriages upturned and on fire among other things. Chocolate was beaming an innocent-as-a-crocodile grin as I overlooked the damage. I looked down at him and sighed.
"Did you decide to look for your cutie mark while I was inside?" He just kept grinning and started climbing up my leg, then my torso, then finally perched himself on my head. "Run?" Chocolate nodded.
And so we ran.
A Canterlot Symphony Act 3: A Royal Waltz
A Canterlot Symphony
Imagine this.
An 18 year old boy wearing a red & blue scarf, running through the streets of Canterlot with a colt that is grinning like mad on his head and a box under his arm, being chased by ponies wearing armor while heading for the castle that resides in the center of the city.
In a strange way it reminds me of home.
I had been running for a while now. I think it was about.....10-15 minutes. Some Pegasi had flown from the chase to grab some clouds to put out the fire Choc's crusading had caused. I just got to my second trip around the city when another swear pierced the sound barrier.
“BBBBBBBBBBBBUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUULLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIITTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!!”
Chocolate leaned forward in front of my face, blocking my line of sight. "Mr. James? What does bull-" I pushed him back onto my head and kept running.
"I'LL TELL YOU WHEN YOU'RE OLDER!" As I ran past the destruction for a third time, I got a good look at it. Dang Choc can do some damage, even lit the stone on fire. I'm not sure if I should be scared or proud of the kid..... Scared. Definitely scared with a hint of pride.
"Halt... In the name of....the princesses...." The guards shouted after me. Must be getting tired after chasing me for so long. Right then, a stray thought managed to worm its way into my brain.
'wait... I was the wimpiest guy in my class. How the fuck am I out-running trained soldiers?' I shook the thought out of my head soon after and made a left turn straight through the city. There were no guards in front of the gates when I got there because the first attempt at entry made them chase me along with the rest of the guards. I ran straight for the castle doors and burst through them. I quickly slammed the doors shut and pressed my face against it to rest. I was panting as all the running finally caught up to me. Chocolate was still on my head and was starting to tremble.
"What the matter Choc-" I stopped talking as I realized that I was surrounded by spears pointed at me. "Oh.....um....Hi?" The guards just glared at me and raised a spear to my jugular. But it seemed that luck was on my side for once, as a booming voice scared the guards shitless.
"GUARDS! WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?" The volume of her voice was enough to make Chocolate nearly fall off of my head. The guards and myself turned to see a displeased, midnight-blue Alicorn in regalia trotting up to us. The guards (except the ones holding me at spear point) gave an immediate bow.
"P-princess Luna, this human broke into the castle an-" The guard was interrupted as Luna boomed a second time, which successively knocked him off my head. He did however manage to grab my scarf, turning it into a makeshift noose.
"HE DID NO SUCH ACT! WE INVITED HIM FOR AN AUDIENCE WITH US!" The guards lowered the spears and started to back away. I lowered my torso enough that Chocolate was touching the ground and he hid behind my legs. This made Luna have a sympathetic smile for the colt. "T'is alright young one, thou art not in trouble." Chocolate looked like he was about to cry. I knelt down and put my hand on his back. This made him look up at me and I gave him a nod. He turned back to the princess and hung his head.
"I'm sorry." Luna looked at him with a gentle smile.
"We are sure whatever thou did isn't as bad as our guards are making it." I glanced around nervously, I hope that the whole 'destruction of a fifth of the town' thing didn't come back to bite my current standing with the royals. Even though it wasn't my fault. I managed to hide my fears with a stupid grin that I had mastered years ago as the princess looked upon me. "Now you must be this 'James' I have heard of?" I decided to try and be formal so I wouldn't end up in a dungeon.
"That would be correct your highness. I am James Fredric Hindenburg; it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." I even gift wrapped it with a bow as I finished, which made Luna gave a chuckle at my royal tone.
"You needith not be so formal. Now come, our sister awaits thine presence." We obliged and set off after the Alicorn of the night. The walk was silent for the most part, Luna did ask why I had a kid with me and I explained that he jumped in on the ride. Chocolate stayed close to me every time we passed a guard post or passerby. I was fascinated by all of the detail that was put into everything there. I know it was a palace but DAYUM was it elaborate. We soon reached the throne room (or at least I think it was) and we beheld who I assumed was the princess of the sun sitting at a small table. I gave another bow before the white Alicorn, making Luna shake her head as she sat next to her sister who was just staring in my general direction with a small frown. The other princess apparently was so deep in thought; she didn't seem to notice me or anything else at all until her sister nudged her back into reality. She blinked a couple times before sighing.
"Please let this one be better than Sarah Luna, is this the guest you invited?" Luna gave a curt nod and joined her sister at the table. The white Alicorn motioned for me to take a seat across from them, so I obliged and Chocolate sat on my lap. "So you're the 'James' I've heard about from my student?"
"That would be correct your highness. My name is James Fredric Hindenburg, and my young friend here is Chocolate Apple." Choc gave a shy wave when I mentioned him. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance Princess..." The princess smiled and set down her tea.
"Celestia, Princess Celestia." I grabbed a cup to get a drink but noticed that there was a bite taken out of the porcelain.
"Uh, should I even ask..?" Celestia shook her head as she went to pour herself another cup but the teapot was already empty. The door opened soon after and some servers came in with fresh tea. Made me wonder if they were spying on us....... Schme. We all poured ourselves some tea (Except Chocolate, he got a soda from the maids. The kid seriously needs to turn his swag off) and had some idle conversation. Luna was the one to start our latest topic.
"If it is not too much trouble sir James, we would like to hear thine story of how you arrived in Equestria. We have heard one other and it was.." Luna shuddered for a moment "...unpleasant." I made a small frown at the mentioning of the event, but I knew that it would come up sooner or later. I looked down towards Chocolate and he seemed confused by my change in demeanor.
"Certainly, but I'd like to ask if we could speak in private." I picked Chocolate up and placed him down next to me. "Chocolate, would you do me the favor of distracting those pesky maids that are sitting outside the door?" Hooves could be heard scurrying away as a single maid opened the door for him with a blush. Celestia chuckled as the door closed and her horn lit up. The room was bathed in a yellow aura as she finished casting her spell.
"The room has been sound-proofed. Nopony can hear anything from us for now." I smiled gratefully.
"Thank you Celestia. Now where do I start. I was out hunting with my sister Amy when I suddenly blacked out..."
"....Afterwards I was placed in the desert near Appleloosa the way that I am now. I've got to say, that town is amazing." I leaned forward on the table as I finished my story. I think one of them mumbled something about how weird my death was. Luna looked somewhat uncomfortable with how I described my death, and Celestia probably wasn't fairing much better, but she had one good poker face so I couldn't tell.
"What was your life like before you became a wraith? If you don't mind my asking." I smiled and stared into my tea.
"I had a good life for the most part. My parents loved me and my brothers for the first 12 years of my life and my foster parents took good care of us." Celestia paused for a moment to digest what I had said. I knew what she was going to ask about already. I'd heard it too many times to count over the last six years. All of the DAMN FALSE SYMPATHY from others who pretended to care.
"First twelve? Did something happen?" Called it. I took a deep breath as I started to tell the story that I'd had to tell more times than I'd have liked to.
"When I was 12 years old my dad went missing for months. When they found him he'd been dead since a week after he vanished and the guy responsible died of a stroke three days ago. My mom was so heartbroken that she just lost the will to live. Ended up dying in her sleep from the stress and emotional pain." A tear rolled down my cheek and landed in my drink, but I kept the tale going.
"We were put in social services for two years, home after home of rotten people using us for money or some other form of gain. Then this elderly couple found us and managed to take all three of us in over time. I went from the eldest of three, to the middle child of seven. I had four new siblings, two of which were new sisters. Amy was the oldest of them and was the only direct descendant of the Hindenburg line. Most of my new family was adopted as well and it made things easier to cope with. They may not have been blood related but they were the greatest family I could have asked for." I took a swig of tea and sighed.
"Well that's all the secrets I have to tell. The sound spell won't be needed anymore." Celestia removed the spell, while Luna wiped her eyes. She had been crying freely since I had started. I got up to stretch my legs, as the princesses had gotten themselves into a more presentable state. I walked over to the entrance to open the door and Choc came back inside faster than I had ever seen him move. When I saw the reason why, I started snickering. He was covered in big. Red. Kisses. The kid needs to learn how to turn his swag off. "You have fun with the castle staff kid?" Choc glared at me while I busted out laughing, but his glare turned into a grin.
"You won't be laughing once I tell the princess about last Tuesday!" I gasped at the threat. He was going to tell them that! I still need to pay the sheriff back!
"You. Wouldn't. Dare." He grinned and ran up to Celestia and beckoned her over. I tried to stop him but Celestia started to lift me into the air as she gave Choc her ear. He started whispering that dreaded days events into her ear canal and she almost lost her poker face for a different reason as her eyebrows raised almost to her hairline. Luna had leaned in when he started and was now rolling on the floor clutching her sides.
"TH- THOU DID ALL THAT.... WITH JUST A......A SANDWICH!?" I blushed like mad and she laughed harder. Celestia was laughing as well, just more controlled.
"I was wondering what that paper was about." My confused look made her laugh more as she hovered a newspaper towards me. As I read the front page my face burned.
ACCIDENT IN APPLELOOSA DESTROYS BARN
Last Tuesday in the small settlement of Appleloosa, an entire barn was destroyed by a strange explosion that erupted from inside. The culprit responsible has has remained unnamed but has apologized and will be paying for damages. His claim as to why this happened was that he was trying to make himself some lunch.
I sighed in defeat, while slumping into my pillow/seat. I was about to excuse myself when I felt something in my pocket. I pulled out the letter that was addressed to the princesses.
"I almost forgot, I believe this is for you two." Celestia and Luna took the letter and opened it. Luna aww'd at the letter and Celestia's smile grew ever so slightly. Getting up again me and choc were just outside the doorway when Celestia stopped us.
“If you need a place to stay there are a variety of hotels in the city, One of the cheaper ones should be a couple streets down if you take a right when you leave the castle. It’s a nice and humble place perfect for when traveling with younger companions.” I gave her a final thanks and picked up Chocolate before leaving the castle.
After I got lost and followed some directions that some local passerby gave me, the hotel was sitting before us. It looked a tad out of place from the rest of the city. The place looked more like a cottage than a hotel. As we entered, a small bell jingled and a light green mare that was working on something behind the counter turned around with her eyes closed, giving off a bright smile.
“Welcome to the Hummingbird Inn, How may I help you- oh!” She stopped what I assumed was her signature introduction when she opened her eyes and saw me. I just gave a light chuckle.
“Excuse me but, how much would a single room be?” She was stock still for a moment more before she regained her composure.
“That will be 20 bits” I reached into my pocket and found that I had just enough to afford the room and maybe some breakfast tomorrow. I paid her and took Choc up to the room. We got a room with two beds so I put him down on on the one farthest from the door. Choc yawned before he climbed under the covers. I couldn’t help but smile as I climbed into my own bed and gave one last glance at him.
Cause for a moment it wasn't Choc sleeping there, but my youngest brother Tommy.
I laid on that bed for who knows how long thinking about my family back home. Mom and Dad would be hit hard from losing not just me, but their only direct child. And how would Jake handle being there for Tommy. No matter what I tried to think about I couldn’t get off of the topic. In the end before I passed out into a dreamless sleep, only one thought came to mind.
God, how I miss them.
Meanwhile, a solitary figure with long brown hair, dressed in a silver-blue t-shirt and grey slacks, and a compound bow draped over her shoulder, overlooked the royal city as it was bathed in the moonlight. She sat in her perch amongst the trees, while fiddling with her wolf necklace as she watched a cottage like building for signs of activity.
“He’s somewhere in this city, right?” Death floated behind her as he rested his hand on her shoulder.
“Yes, but know that I don’t normally do this sort of thing. His mind, however, is unstable and He needs someone familiar nearby to help him cope. Otherwise, not even I know what will happen.” She stood and hopped down from her post and cracked her neck.
“Don’t you worry James” Her green eyes gleamed she turned her head to her new destination.
“Your big sis is here.”
Author's Note
I derped for about a minute until I saw that I forgot the amount of money for the room. That should explain the update shpeal.
Anyways MYSTERY CHARACTER can you guess who? Oh and fellow wraiths, DO NOT SPOIL THIS FOR THE READERS!!
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A Canterlot Symphony Act 4: Meeting New Friends
A Canterlot Symphony
(ost)
The sun sure is being a real bitch this morning. I raised my hand to bend the light away from my face. It was working for the most part, until Chocolate decided to use me as a trampoline. “Mr. James, git up, git up!”
I sighed and sat up in bed. Chocolate was sitting on my legs and smiling with that infernal youthful energy. “What is it Choc?”
“It’s time fer breakfast!” Breakfast... What a concept. Wonder where I’ll find some souls here in Canterlot? Maybe there’s a park I can find some squirrels at.
I got out of bed once Chocolate stopped jumping on me, and made my way to the hotel lobby. When I got there, the mare from yesterday was cleaning the counter. She gave me a friendly smile and waved.
“Good Morning! I trust that you slept well?”
I gave her a smile and a small chuckle. “Absolutely, It would be a crime to not enjoy staying in such a nice place.”
She blushed and giggled at the complement. “Oh, my business isn’t anything special.”
I was enjoying myself, this was way too easy. “That is where you are wrong. This place is marvelous and I got the best sleep I’ve ever had while traveling last night.” Chocolate made fake retching noises and I smiled. “Now if the beautiful mare in front of me could please give me her name...”
“It’s Feather Light. Thank you for asking.” I bid her adieu and left the establishment with Chocolate.
Choc looked up at me as we walked down the street. “Can we get breakfast now?”
I had gone to the local park after I’d gotten Choc some hayfries or whatever they’re called. I had managed to distract him by letting him play with some of the local kids and nabbed me some squirrel souls. “These ought to last me about a week or two.” I stuffed the extras into my pockets and walked over to a park bench near Choc and those other kids.
Chocolate was waving his arms around. “‘nd then the barn just went BOOM!”
The blue colt started to glare. “You’re bluffing! A sandwich can’t do that!”
Choc got in the blue ones face. “Ah am not! Ah saw it with my own two eyes!” The kept bickering while the yellow filly facehoofed. I chuckled as I got up and walked over.
The blue one went wide eyed as he saw me and started pointing at me. “It’s that thing from yesterday!”
My eye twitched for a moment. “I’m not a thing, I’m a human, but most importantly is that Choc here needs to stop telling that story, It’s embarrassing.” Chocolate grinned as he rubbed the back of his head.
About then a white pegasus in a postal uniform trotted up to me and tapped my leg. “Are you James Hindenburg?”
I looked at him a bit uneasily. “Yeah.”
He reached into his bag and pulled out a envelope. “I have a letter for you from a miss Appleslice.” He flew away with the ‘have a good day’ line as I grabbed the letter and gulped. It was definitely from Choc’s mom. Only she could write this in such a neat fashion when stressed.
James,
I haven’t been able to find Chocolate anywhere and the entire town was looking for him. If he’s with you in Canterlot please make sure he gets home safely or it’s your head on the line.
Sincerely
~Appleslice P.S. I hope your trip is going smoothly~
I slowly folded the letter and placed it in my last free pocket. “Choc. When we get home, we are in so much trouble.”
Choc was confused until he saw who the letter was from. “Uh oh.” I picked him up after letting him say good bye to those kids. I was about to leave the park when I thought I saw someone in the trees. I looked back but nothing was there except branches waving in the breeze.I was headed to the Train station and was planning on sending Chocolate home when we passed ‘The Silver Wing’ hotel. There was some kind of commotion coming from inside.
Death appeared next to me right out of a nearby ally, scaring both me and Chocolate. “Sorry about that James, but I thought you’d like to know that the wraith I sent you to meet is inside this building. Her name’s Sarah, just ask for someone with white hair and the patrons should point you in the right direction.” Death saw Chocolate and gave an apologetic smile. “And I’m also sorry for scaring your companion, do take care James.”
Choc stared at Death as he vanished “Who the hell was that!”
I gave him a bop on the nose. “Language, and that was my boss. I’ll explain that bit when you’re older.” Chocolate pouted and mumbled something about always having to be older. I was about to walk into the building when I saw something I didn’t really expect.
I was rather intimidated by the first one. She had long white hair and scars while she just felt.... evil. There was no other way to describe it. She was just. Evil and scary as hell. My nuts seemed to start hurting at the sight of her. This was probably Sarah.
Chocolate didn’t seem intimidated by her appearance in the slightest and started waving from his perch. “Hi!”
A white haired man in a hoodless cloak walked out of the building and stood next to Sarah. “Hello there.”
Sarah just smiled with sharp, bloody teeth and waved with an equally sharp, blackened claw instead of a hand. My eye twitched as the prospects of what she could do with that ran through my brain.
Chocolate just went wide eyed and smiled “Cool...”
She quickly turned her claw into a skeletal arm, I guess that’s her weapon. “Sorry, forgot about that... Nice to meet you, I guess.” She offered me her normal hand and I tentatively gave her a quick handshake.
The next one was, thankfully, a pony. After her was a really tall and seemed to loom over everyone. He had a top hat and and was wearing a cloak like a cape. and oddly enough there was an elf to his right. It’s probably a good thing my sister isn’t here.
A growl came from behind the pony and a RIDICULOUSLY big wolf came out from behind her. It is a REALLY good thing my sister isn’t here, for she would have smothered it with hugs. I heard a *squee* from the trees behind me and turned to look. Again, there was only branches and leaves.
I turned back to the group in front of me, blinked, then turned to Choc. “Well that was odd.”
The white haired guy pointed to the trees “What did you see?”
I shrugged. “Just what you would expect in trees. Leaves, leaves, and more leaves.”
He glared at the trees, “Then explain why I saw something about my height move.”
I turned back and stared at the tree. Maybe those squirrels mutated and wanted revenge. “I have no idea.”
He was about to say something else when the elf in front of me started yelling “Gah, Dammit, WHO ARE YOU PEOPLE!?”
Chocolate climbed down from my shoulder and ran up to her. “My name’s Chocolate! What’s yer name?”
“Arlosia, nice to meet you. Now get the hell out of my face.” Choc started to to tear up and ran behind my legs and I glared Arlosia. “What? What the hell do you want?”
I started tapping my foot on the ground as I intensified my glare. “Well for starters, I would like an apology to my friend here.”
Arlosia leaned to the side to look at Chocolate, “I’m sorry you can’t handle someone being slightly upset with you.”
I let out a small growl and turned my attention to the white haired guy. “So what’s you’re name?”
He held out a hand, “The names Michael, a pleasure to meet you.”
I took his hand and gave him a firm shake. “James.” I turned to the gargantuan man pole, I mean seriously, he’s almost a solid foot taller than me! “And you?”
He stood there and responded. “James.”
We stood there staring at eachother. “...…Well this is awkward..... ”
Michael nodded in agreement. “Yep, we got a problem within a couple minutes of meeting. How wonderful.”
“Well” He looked down at me, which made me feel a little weird. “you could just call me Jav, that’s what everyone back home called me, most of the time anyway. There are a lot of James’ in the world, for whatever reason.” Well that became a lot less confusing.
Michael spoke up “Okay then,” He pointed at me “You’re James,” he switched over to Jav “and you’re Jav, Now what about that pony that’s with you?” Oh, I’d almost forgotten about her.
The pony looked at us tiredly. “I’m Ardiente Fragua, former member of the Polomino family mafia, friend of Sarah’s. I would say it’s a pleasure, but your friend threatened my friend, and I don’t like you so much because of that.” She then climbed up onto the wolf’s back and fell asleep.
Michael only blinked. “Okay...”
Sarah pointed to the other pony there and laughed.
I knelt down and let Choc get back on my shoulder, before turning to the other pony. “And your name would be?”
She blinked before she responded “My name’s Flare Dancer, I chased you across town yesterday before Princess Luna saved you.” Apparently wraith’s glow when we blush, cause I lit up like a gold light bulb.
Sarah started talking as she stared at me. “Jesus Christ that’s actually kinda funny, I think I’ll laugh now.”
I stood up and coughed as Sarah was rolling on the ground. “Ah, well....yes, about that.”
Michael’s eye started to twitch as he looked at me. “How in the name of all things logical are you doing...” He started gesturing to all of me. “THAT!?”
“Uhh, I guess wraiths glow when we blush...wait. Oh god that means I was like a beacon yesterday!” Chocolate started nodding to confirm my statement. “Why didn’t you tell me?”
Chocolate grinned “Cause it was funny.”
Sarah was finally getting over her fit of laughter. “Ah God dammit, why was that funny? Whatever, Flare? You are no longer on the list of people I wish to kill, eat, then masturbate with the bones. Now it’s only kill.” Flare was making this.... face. I can't really describe it.
Chocolate looked up to me. “Mr. James, What’s Masturbating?” I was at a loss as for what to do...
So I opted to act like a goldfish. “I- uh, It’s... Uh... I’ll let your mom tell you.”
Sarah started smiling. “S’Where I stick a bone up my vagina.”
Before she could say it I covered Choc’s ears. “Please don’t ruin his childhood. It would be the end of me.”
Sarah just shrugged “You make it sound like I should care about you. Besides, what’s knowing a few bad words? Way worse can happen to a kid.” She had absolutely no idea what she was talking about. If he even mentioned that in front of his mother..... oh god the pain.
Michael smiled and looked at Chocolate. “Why don’t we go get some ice cream?”
Chocolate perked up at the mention of the frosty treat. “ICE CREAM!!!!” I started cleaning the inside of my ear. Good god that kid can be loud. “Mr. James can we? Can we can we can we can we can w-” I clapped my hand over his mouth.
“Yes Choc, we’ll get some Ice cream... just... calm down first.”
Michael started chuckling “You’ll have lead me there...” He turned to Flare. “Know any good ice cream spots?”
Chocolate was enjoying his strawberry ice cream as I had a simple vanilla waffle cone. Michael got himself a mint-chocolate chip, and Sarah had a chocolate ice cream. Flare had some cinnamon ice cream.
While we ate Sarah was staring at her cone. “This thing full of drugs or something?” I just stared at her. “Don’t want a repeat of last time. That was a bad time, many dead bodies and chloroform.” I turned back to the road and tried to ignore them. I didn’t want to know about whatever twisted things happened.
Michael spoke up “No... Why the fuck would you think that?” I stopped Choc before he could ask.
Sarah started to stare at him with a mad look in her eye. “A.N.G.E.L. Fucked up people, many drugs, many many drugs. Chemicals too. Lots of them. So many drugs...”
I turned back to her and stared again as Michael was choking on his ice cream. “Wha-huh?”
She turned her mad gaze towards me. “Oh yes, bad people, did a lot of things, bad things, very bad things, mostly to me, other people too. One girl, beaten and killed, right in front of me, they raped her body, not fun, made me clean up mess too. Still better than me, at least she died, I didn’t for a while, got a lot of stuff. Lots of stuff, so much stuff. Rape, torture, stuff like that, some stuff worse, some stuff better. Mostly worse stuff. Lots of worse stuff. Like skeleton, tore me open, put in metal, now it’s mostly metal, very strong, very painful, always hurts to walk around.” She had fallen to her knees at this point and was clutching her head. “Wasn’t fun, not fun at all, lots of bad things, bad people, bad memories, not fun. Not fun at all, not fun...” She passed out, collapsing on the ground right there.
Choc jumped from my shoulder and was looking over her. “Is she gonna be okay Mr. James?”
I started to try and lift Sarah but only got her to lift about half an inch before having to put her down. “I.... don’t know Choc... I don’t....know........ WOW she is heavy.”
Jav had run up to us at some point and was pointing his hand at Sarah. “Suspension. ”
The next thing I knew Sarah was floating in the air and Michael was spasming on the ground. “What should we do about-”
Arlosia, Ardiente, and Jav started to walk away. “Leave him.”
Me and Choc watched as they left. I took one look at Michael’s twitching form before sighing and picking him up by the arm. “This better not bite me in the ass later.”
Chocolate gasped and hit me in the shin. “That’s a bad word Mr. James!” I let Choc walk next to Flare as we headed for the hotel.
From up ahead I could hear Arlosia call Choc ‘a bad word’. No really, she said Chocolate was a bad word. That doesn’t even make any sense.
Flare got up next to me and lifted Michael’s other arm. “Here, I’ll help.”
I gave her a smile and a quick nod. “Thanks.” as we walked away I couldn’t help but make a connection in my head. “Ya know, you kinda remind me of my sister.”
“Really how so?”
I let out a small chuckle “She normally was the one helping me get home.”
Chocolate started scaling my back using my scarf as a rope. I was slowly losing oxygen as he got to the top. Once he got there he turned towards Flare. “Ms. Flare, Why are you following Mr.Michael around?”
Flare chuckled. “Orders from Princess Celestia, I’m suppose to report to her about Michael.” Chocolate made the ever classic ‘Ooooh’ as we continued our trip in silence.
Author's Note
Sarah, Arlosia, Jav, Ardiente and Feral the wolf belong to FireBlanket.
This was fun to write.
View Online
A Canterlot Symphony Act 5: A Minor Interlude
We were walking back to the Silverwing following the others. Most of the walk was uneventful until some guy in a white suit started charging at Jav with a blue phase-blade or something. About half way the guy started speeding up as his eyes glowed and lunged at Jav. He managed to dodge but dropped Sarah in the process. She sat up groaning as she held her head and seemed to recognize the other guy.
The guy with the sword started yelling at Jav. “I’m going to kill you like I did your colleague you corpse-fucking piece of shit!” I was staring at the spectacle and quickly put myself in front of the others. This guy just called Jav a corpse fucker..... If he is a necrophiliac, I’m going to kick him in the balls so hard.....
Jav easily dodged another of the man’s attacks. “I do not fuck corpses. A corpse and a zombie are two different things!” .....Just what the hell was going on?
The man’s eyes glowed brighter as Jav continued. “Besides, I don’t even know who you’re talking about, the only recent family death was- Wait a bloody minute, you killed Mary!?” Chocolate was shaking as he hid behind me and Flare.
The man smirked viciously. “Shotgun blast to the face. Felt awesome bro.”
Jav glared at the man as he held his cane at a downward angle, “Alright, now I’m pissed. Claymore, activate.” The cane then turned into a large black sword which he held in both hands and prepared to strike.
“Compensating for somethin’ Necro-fag?” The man taunted with a smirk.
Chocolate was confused and scared. I didn’t know what was happening anymore and just wanted to scream.
So I did. “Just what the heck is going on!?”
Jav glanced at me in annoyance, The mark on his eye became glaringly noticeable. How the heck did I miss that?
“Shut up.” Jav then raised his sword above his head to strike and said, “Heavy Swing! ”
When he brought his sword down, The man quickly reacted by with his own sword. The fact that the ground cracked from the force of the blow was.....Disheartening. Maybe kicking him in the balls wasn’t going to happen. The other guy then kicked Jav in the chest, causing him to stumble.
The attacker began slashing away at Jav’s chest, sending blood splattering onto the ground with each strike. After a couple seconds of slashing, the guy jumped into the air and double kicked him in the chest and sent him flying a few feet.
After struggling to stay standing, Jav looked at the man with hate in his eyes, “God damned brat...” Leveling his hand with the attacker, he shouted, “Lock and Key! ”
The man’s body locked up and his eyes widened with anger. “Damn old man...”
With some strain, Jav ran up to The guy and placed his hand on his chest, “Death Siphon.” I don’t really know what happened after that cause I was busy trying to calm Chocolate down and keep him from seeing any more of the fight. They just kept going at each other, there was even another boom from when Jav’s sword smashed into the ground a second time.
Eventually Arlosia started whispering to Sarah.
Sarah sighed. “No, just... just don’t.”
Arlosia seemed disappointed that whatever her idea was got rejected. “Aw come on, why not? Guy’s a complete prick!”
She sighed and shook her head, shaking out of whatever daze she was in from waking up, “I’ll try and reason with him.” She walked over to the crazed maniac, who was still glaring at Jav, and kicked him the shin, “Would you fucking stop already!?”
The guy began hopping on one foot as he held his knee. “OW! What the fuck!?!” He swore in pain.
“I’m sorry, I guess I wasn’t clear enough in negotiation, let me try again.” She then kicked his other shin, making him fall to the ground. “Understand yet, or should I continue?”
The guy rose from the ground he fell on and glared at her, “Was that really fucking necessary?” He asked angrily.
“Oh, I don’t know,” Sarah said sarcastically pointing to Jav while she glared at him, “Was that?”
The guy rolled his eyes, “I’ve fought that bag of cock’s relative, I’d have to say yes since she was one big psycho bitch with kleptomania of people and turning them into one big sack of fuck! I ain’t going to let him continue her work, not after all that work I put in to stopping it.”
Jav yelled from his place on the ground, “For your information, I don’t want to continue her work. I left the family ages ago! Hell, I’m glad you bloody killed her! Mostly.” I more than likely missed something while calming Choc down cause it sounded like he was mostly glad his sister was dead.......
The guy shouted back, “I don’t give a beavers nipple! You’re a damn necromancer, and I don’t trust you, since your relative didn’t exactly help paint a good picture of them!” Holy Shit...... Jav is a necromancer?! That’s...........pretty cool actually. WAY better than a necrophiliac by my call.
Sarah slashed him lightly across the face with her fingernails, “Alright then, fuck off you criminal piece of shit.”
The guy stared with wide eyes before he narrowed them and made them glow. “The fuck did you just call me...?” He whispered with rage. Fuck Sarah just pissed him off again....
“I’m sorry,” She said, “but I don’t associate with mobsters, after how bad an image the Blancas painted for me. It’s obvious you’re no better than them.”
At that point, a stream of mist was literally flowing out of his eyes as he began giving off a ice blue aura. Just what the fuck was this guy!? As soon as it came though, it disappeared. The fire died, and so did the glowing of his eyes. He started to chuckle before it turned into a full laugh.
Sarah looked at him in confusion “What? What’s so funny?”
The guy shook his head as he smirked, “Clever girl. I see what you’re doing. Not exactly that subtle, are you?” He asked with humor.
She shrugged and smiled, “Got you to stop though, didn’t it?” He laughed again.
“Yeah, I guess it did.” he replied with his own smile before he turned serious. “Still, I don’t trust him. Like I said his relative didn’t help, but I won’t attack him.” Okay, this is getting confusing... and I don't even know this guy's name.
Flare tapped me on the shoulder about then. “James can you help me lift Michael? The commotion seems to have died down enough for us to get him inside.” I nodded in agreement and We all headed inside. Choc stayed on the opposite side of me that was facing the crazy guy that was now talking casually with Sarah.
If I ever see him again I will punch him in the face. We got upstairs and helped Flare get Michael into the room. Afterwards, I took Chocolate back to the Hummingbird Inn to get some rest. As soon as we got to our room I laid down and sighed. “Today has been all kinds of crazy.”
Chocolate was in his own bed and just stared at his pillow. He kept looking over to me and tossing around on his bed before he jumped out and walked over to mine. “Mr. James... c-can ah sleep with you tonight?”
I looked over and saw his watery eyes. You just can’t say no to something like that. It is physically and mentally impossible from how heart wrenching it is. I would have had caused a mass depression in all emotional existence if I did! “Sure kid, hop in.” He hopped up onto the bed and wormed his way under the covers, huddling close to my chest like a cat and we both fell asleep.
View Online
A Canterlot Symphony Act 6: The Racing Champion
That night I had a pretty weird dream. One cause I normally I don’t dream at all, and two that I’ve never had a dream this vivid before. I was in a narrow hall that was lined with seats. As i walked down the corridors I found an open gate. On the other side was this big, open coliseum that was lined with banners of a solar eclipse. It looked like the Roman coliseum during it’s glory days while under the rule of a solar tyrant. At the center of the arena was something that I hadn’t expected to see.
There was some guy with similar clothes to myself facing away from the entrance.
The differences were that he dressed in a off-white shirt with a blackened cross outline and the pants were black as crude oil. The gloves he wore had small blades sticking out of where mine just had a metal plate, while his scarf was a dark gold and was torn almost to shreds as it waved in some unknown breeze. If he wasn’t for the fact he looked like me I would have thought it to be a mane instead.
Suddenly the coliseum started to shake and collapse around me. He turned towards me and showed his beady red eyes and blackened skin. He stared into my eyes and smiled with a jagged his smile. I started to black out as he slowly walked up to me. Right before the dream ended he grabbed me by the collar of my shirt and pulled me up to his face.
“It’s nice to finally meet you James~”
I awoke with a small jolt going through the back of my head. I sat up groaning as I clutched the back of my neck. “Ohhh.... What time is it?” A quick look out the window showed that it was sunrise. I looked over to Chocolate who was running in his sleep next to my pillow. Probably having a nightmare about that guy in the white suit. “Hey Choc, wake up.”
Chocolate woke up and looked around. He huddled into my chest and started crying and mumbling about a scary thing in a black suit. One of the perks of being an older brother is knowing how to calm down little kids. ”Shhh. It’s okay, It was just a dream.”
He sniffled and started to wipe his eyes. ”B-but it was so scary...” As I was calming him down I thought I saw another shadow in the window. When I turned my head to look there was nothing.
I think I might be going crazy, or I have a ninja stalker. Course, that wouldn’t be the first time. A small shiver ran through my spine at the thought.
When I got Choc to calm down we went to the lobby, Feather light was walking in from a back room with a food tray. “Good morning Ms. Light.”
She turned to me and smiled after setting the tray down on a table. “Good morning! I hope you slept well?”
I gave her a tired smile. “We slept just fine.” I looked over at the food noticing the salads that were on it. “Is that for us?”
Feather looked at us before letting out a small gasp. “Oh no, this is for one of the other guests. I was just about to take it to them.” She quickly picked up the tray and went up some stairs that were leading to the other half of the building. I was about to head out and get some food for Choc when her head popped out from the top of the stairs. “And I must thank you for staying here. When some of those dense nobles saw you enter they came in to see if I was alright and saw how lovely the establishment is. I haven’t had this many guests in ages!”
I blinked a couple of times. “Uh... you’re welcome?” She let out a small squeal of delight before she headed back to her desk. Choc climbed on my shoulder as we left the Inn with her giving us a fond farewell.
Choc looked at me from his perch on my shoulder while being utterly confused. “Mr. James, what just happened?”
I gave him an equally confused look. “I don’t know Choc, I don’t know.”
We walked through town and didn’t really do much. Chocolate was sitting on my shoulder again and I was just looking at all the market stalls cause I was broke and couldn’t afford anything more than a few meals and the ticket I’d need to send Chocolate home. Without me . I was in a tent looking at some necklaces that one of the locals had crafted when a pegasus in a leather jacket shoved me over. “Eh! Watch it!”
The blue pegasus looked at me and glared. “What do ya want ya freak?”
I glared back as the store owner started looking around nervously. “You can’t just shove me over! Go wait in line like everyone else.”
The pegasus flew up to me and shoved me in the chest. “And who’s going to make me, Punk.” God this guy is getting on my nerves.
“You want to go a round?” We were practically pressing our faces together as we glared.
He suddenly smirked. “Wait, I recognise you. You were that thing the guards were chasin’ a while ago.” Some other pegasi in similar leather jackets were entering the tent and started surrounding us.
I crossed my arms as I leaned back. “So what if I am?”
He flew back into my face. “It takes some serious speed to outrun the guard.”
“Your point?”
His smirk grew into a grin. “How ‘bout we settle this with a race?”
I just stood there and blinked at him. “A race?” The next thing I knew He and some of his goons had pulled me out of the shop and I was standing in the street next to this guy. Everyone in the area had cleared the street. Chocolate was standing next to the shopkeeper with a big grin on his face.
(ost)
The gang leader crouched down and readied himself “First one to go around the city and back wins, that alright?”
I grinned at the prospect of the challenge. “You’re on.” We both were crouched down for the signal. One of his goons dropped a checkered flag and we took of like bullets.
As we ran next to each other I jumped over stalls and various obstacles as the stallion flew next to me. We were neck and neck, going at speeds fast enough to cause a slipstream.
He smirked at me from his spot on my left. “You’re actually keeping up with me, I’m impressed.” He sped up enough to pass me and flew over a moving crew that was in the path. “Hope you can dodge this though!”
I kept my eyes on him, sliding under a mirror that was being unloaded by two pegasi. “Just watch,” I blew past him as he stared at me in shock, “you might learn a thing or two!” He growled as we matched speeds again.
I laughed like a madman as adrenaline pumped through my veins. I could see ponies up ahead clearing the streets and some of the others from Sarah’s group wondering what was going on. I pumped my legs harder and got a lead as we passed them.
Time seemed to slow as I shot them a wave. Michael’s expression was the most priceless out of them all. His mouth was hanging open and his eye was starting to twitch. Me and the gang leader kept speeding past as time reverted to normal.
We kept up our dance of passing each other and dodging the occasional pony. Eventually we got to the halfway point and He was starting to get exhausted and wasn’t looking too happy. “How the hay are you still going!”
I just smiled calmly and kept running next to him. “I have no idea.” A devilish smirk replaced my smile as I faced forward and started to increase my speed. He let out a roar of frustration before catching up to me.
We were about a quarter of the way to the Finish when some of his goons had started to fill the street. He smirked as he flew level with the roofs above me while yelling to his goons. “GET ‘IM BOYS!” I rolled out of the way as one of the gangsters launched themselves at me. Three of them jumped in front of me in an attempt to dogpile on top of me.
I smirked as I raised my arms and bulldozed through them. “Scuse me, pardon me, COMIN’ THROUGH!” The gang members went flying to the sides of the road as I passed them. That cheating bastard was almost at the finish line. Like Hell if I’m just going to let him win.
I started to push myself faster as I jumped above the street gangs’ heads. I started running on top of them as I caught up to the leader. He was smiling as he was about to reach the finish only for it to be shattered as I passed him not ten feet away from winning.
The crowd erupted in cheers as I skid to a halt and stood. I raised both my arms and waved to the crowd. It seemed that our little race had attracted a good bit of attention.
Chocolate ran up to me and clamped onto my leg with a death grip. He climbed onto my shoulder and sat there smiling. “That was awesome! Ya just plowed right on through ‘em! When did ya learn how ta do that?!”
I laughed as I remembered my last couple years of High School. The crowded hallways and a violin case. You do the math. “That is a story for when we’re home.”
Choc smiled and hugged my head. “At least ya didn’t say when I’m older.” We both laughed until the gangsters started to surround us. I watched the blue pegasus as he made his way over to me.
The gang leader looked at me with a glare before sighing. “Looks like you won.” His smirk was back in an instant and he started laughing. His goons were confused as they turned their attention to him. “Nopony has ever beat me in a race before now. That alone is a feat, but doing it without even flying and with all we threw at you... You’re something else.” He flew up and offered his hoof. “Name’s Cerulean Shield.”
I really wanted to punch this guy, but after that adrenaline high I think I’ll make an exception. “James, and the next time you want a race... Let’s make it fair.” I started to walk away but stopped to yell over my shoulder. “And if I find out any of your gang members caused any trouble, I will find you just to punch your face in.”
Cerulean cocked an eyebrow and stared at me. “Trouble? The most the Blue-Wing gang do is protect our turf and have some friendly races. It’s the guys on the other side that are the problem.”
I waved over my shoulder as I walked away. “Then it shouldn’t be an issue!” I paused and turned around again. “I do have one last thing to say though!”
Cerulean flew closer and landed next to me. “And what would that be?”
I gave him the most deadpan look I could. “Blue-Wing? Really? You couldn’t find anything more original? It practically is a tribute to yourself.” Choc was laughing as Cerulean glared at me before he started laughing himself as we walked.
One of his goons ran up to us and grabbed his boss’ tail. Cerulean stopped and turned to face his subordinate. “Where you goin’ boss?”
Cerulean turned and gave a cocky grin to his subordinate. “I’ll just be walking around with this guy. You and the others head on back to the hideout and I’ll get back in time for the meeting.” The other pegasus gave a curt nod and flew off.
I was about to ask what he was talking about when I saw him. That crazy guy from before was standing in the crowd. Choc had noticed too and hid behind me.
I cracked my knuckles from how hard I clenched my fist. “Choc, I need you to stay here for a moment.” Chocolate nodded and
I walked over to the man as he notice my presence. The man seemed to be cheerier than the last time I saw him. His eyes were close like that of a fox as he sensed me coming.
“Nice race kid.” He bowed as he pulled his hat off in a quick bow and put it back on. He held out a hand for me to shake. I stared at it for a good two seconds before reeling my fist back and landing a punch right in his face.
He... he didn’t even flinch...
It was like punching a steel wall...
Oh god what did I just do... He opened one eye, and it began to glow blue as he smirked evilly.
“Kid?”
I tried to look as intimidating as I could despite the fact that this guy was the absolute definition of scary and was making me sweat bullets. “That... was for s-scaring my friend yesterday with your crazy, madman assault on Jav.”
His smirk grew wider as his eyes glowed brighter, “Well, if you expect an apology, you’re going to have to look somewhere else.” I felt a boot to the side of my head and was sent flying a few feet back.
“Because right now, you just went and pissed me off!” He yelled as I rose from the ground. I flew back and crashed through a conveniently placed fruit stand.
I pulled myself out of the rubble and felt my back pop a couple of times. I looked at him and cracked my neck audibly. “Then I guess I’ll just have to force it out of you.” I ran at him to land a punch but he dodged to the left and I hit nothing but air.
“Kid, you’re going to have to try harder.” he mocked as he smacked me on the side of my head.
I growled as I turned to face him. I went for another punch only to meet the same result. I turned and tried to deliver a kick to his head only for it to pass over him as he pulled off some matrix bullshit. “Stop, Fucking, DODGING!!!”
“Nope.” He then delivered a kick to my chin and I was launched by a black and blue beam.
“Infernal Rapture!”
I landed on the ground with a solid thud. Pulling myself up for a second time as I glared at him. “Oh, So it’s going to be like that eh? Fine then!” I slammed my hands together and a ball formed between them. “Light Puppets!” The ball split apart and formed many copies of this asshat. “Attack my minions!”
Dean laughed, “Oh come on now! You seemed smarter a second ago!” he pulled out a hilt of a sword and disappeared. I tried looking for him, when all of the sudden the light puppets started disappearing one by one.
The final puppet vanished but he was nowhere to be seen. “Where the hell did he go?” I felt something slam into the back of my head right after I said that. I skid across the ground and laid there as I heard him walk up to me.
He stepped on my right arm to prevent me from moving.
“You know kid, I was just trying to be nice. Then you had to go and antagonize me by cold-cocking me in the face.” he pressed harder on my arm, making me wince, “I for one don’t appreciate being attacked unprovoked.”
I was about to retort when I saw Choc running up to us. I tried to shoo him away with my free arm but he ran up and tackled the guy’s leg. “Stop being mean to Mr. James!”
He looked down to Choc, not even wincing. He stared long and hard at him, before sighing. “Look, you’re friend here attacked me first. He told me that I scared you from earlier, and while I do regret that (slightly), I’m not apologizing for beating the shit out of him.”
“Ah don’t want an apology! Ah want ya to stop hurtin’ him!” Choc was tearing up and staring up at him.
He paused for a moment before sighing again, “give me a second.” He then stomped on my arm hard enough to dislocate a bone. Before I could yell in pain, he put it back in place.
“Now we’re even dumbass.” He growled as he picked me up.
“I deserved that...”
He then punched me upside the head and smacked me in the face.
“...and that as well.”
He then enclosed his fist on my nose and smacked it down, hurting it even more than my faceplant did.
I gave him a deadpan stare and popped a kink in my neck. “Okay now, that’s pushing it.”
“Oh this is way too much fun...” he snickered.
I sighed as I popped yet another kink out of my neck. “Well at least you’re not Amy. She’d have caused much more pain.”
He froze in place for a moment, before shakily asking me, “W-what would your last name be?”
I blinked a bit as I stared at him. “Uh... Hindenburg, Why?”
He then did the face that Will Smith makes from Fresh Prince of Bel Air. The one that looks like he’s crying.
“Oh gaw~d...” He cried.
I blinked again and cocked an eyebrow. “Is there any particular reason this troubles you?”
Suddenly a shadow fell from one of the trees right behind him. My face paled as the figure stood and became more apparent. She stood and faced the guy with a look of pure unbridled hidden rage. I recognized who it was instantly and had the utmost urge to flee for my life.
“She... she’s right behind me, isn’t she?” he asked with total fear in his voice. I could only nod as I locked eyes with the demonic entity that stood behind him.
She clapped a hand on his shoulder and he visibly shook with terror. ”Hello Dean~”
“Oh lawd...” He slowly turned and smiled shakily, “H-hey... Amy...” He greeted with fear.
I looked between the two of them in fear and confusion with an eye twitch, “You know each other?!”
“We dated,” Amy smiled darkly, “or at least we did until someone decided to break, up, with, me. ” She was punctuating the last four words by stepping closer to the guy (who I’m assuming is Dean).
I looked over to Choc and motioned him to climb up onto my shoulder with a few flicks of my wrist. He complied and began to climb. I gave a similar motion to Cerulean and he prepped his wings.
The moment he was on my shoulder I turned back only to find a blue, man-shaped cloud of smoke that was dissipating and one of the scariest people I’ve ever known in my entire life. “Uh..... hehe, Hey Sis! How are you. Great? That’s great! Just great and uh...”
Amy stared at me and smiled. “You have three seconds.”
I soon left a similar cloud of gold smoke that Dean had while screaming at the top of my lungs and being followed by a blue pegasus. “WAIT FOR MEEEEEEEE!!!!”
Dean was running like the devil himself was behind him.
“DEAAAAAAAAAAAAAANNN!!!!”
Which wasn’t far from the truth!
I was running next to him after a couple minutes. I think that we passed Michael again but I wasn’t sure. I decided that I might as well make the chase interesting. “So, I don’t think we’ve been properly introduced. Name’s James!”
“Dean! Dean Marcelo!” He replied. An arrow flew over our heads and I looked back to see Amy with a compound bow. So that's her weapon...
“FUCKING REALLY!?!?” Dean shouted to Amy with grin.
“YOUR ASS IS MINE DEAN!!” More arrows shot over us and landed into trees and stalls that lined the street.
“YOU MEAN LIKE THAT ONE TIME?”
I stared at him as we ran, despite the fact that an arrow nearly clipped my knee. “I didn’t need to hear that...”
“Yeah well, heat of the moment always makes me say stupid shit.” He shrugged as he ran.
“AND YOU’RE NEXT FOR BEING NEAR HIM JAMES!!” I shot a look back at her that screamed WHAT THE FUCK DID I DO?!?!?!
“Sorry ‘bout that. The break-up was... Not that great. It’s my fault, but she had to leave...” He trailed off. I blinked and was about to stop and say something that I thought would have been comforting until another arrow clipped my ear.
“Oh Come ON!!!” I turned back to her and started running backwards. “Would you stop trying to KILL US!! I got a kid on my shoulder!!!”
“I don’t think you noticed yet,” he jumps as an arrow zooms under him. he lands and continues running, “But she’s kind of trying to kill me, and if I use you as a decoy, I’ll only hurt the kid...” He looks at Cerulean and grins. “Sorry dude!”
Cerulean blinked as he was addressed “Wait what?” He then flips over me, kicks Cerulean in the face lightly, and sends him flying towards Amy. “Fucker!!”
Amy grabbed him by his tail and threw him at us. “YOU’LL HAVE TO TRY BETTER THAN THAT DEAN!”
Dean jumped past the screaming Cerulean projectile and sighed, “Damn it, I was sure that would work!”
I ducked under another arrow. “Dude this is Amy we’re dealing with.”
Dean nodded, “You’re right, going to have to be more versatile.” he looks at the passing buildings. “Well, nothing like trying parkour!” He then grabs Choc and me and jumps onto the buildings.
Choc screamed in excitement as we flew through the air. I looked at the kid in amazement. One moment he’s scared shitless and the next he’s the biggest daredevil I’ve ever seen.
Amy skid to a halt as she looked at the building. “GET DOWN HERE SO I CAN CASTRATE YOU DEAN!!”
“LIKE I SAID WHEN YOU CHASED ME WITH MY CAR, FUCK YOU I’D RATHER LIVE!” He shouted back. She chased him with his own CAR!?
We could hear Amy’s screams of rage from her spot at the bottom of the wall before she started to run at us vertically. “YOU’RE ASS IS MINE!!”
Dean pulled a troll face and grabbed us and jumped from building to building.
I was flailing like a ragdoll and occasionally smacking into random objects as he dragged me around. “WHY ME!?!?”
Dean looked down to me, “You want her to rip your dick off?”
I stopped screaming for a moment and thought over his words. “True. You may continue using me as a flail.”
“Wasn’t asking for permission!” He replied as he continued to be a ninja. Amy was still running after us as we landed in front of the Hummingbird Inn.
I looked over and got to my feet before charging inside with Choc. “Quick! In here!”
Dean then produced a disguise... the infamous groucho glasses. The lenses even had swirls in them, he then took his coat off, his tie, and his hat, and threw them behind a plant. He then produced a newspaper and sat on a bench.
Amy crashed into the street soon after causing a spiderweb of cracks to form. “DEEEEEAAAN!!!” She looked around and started running in a random direction when she couldn’t find him. Dean looked over the glasses and folded his paper.
“Cartoons. Gotta love them.” He smirked as he took off the glasses. He reached behind the plant and put his things back on.
“If I had known she was here....” I trailed off as I thought of all the precautions I would have had to take. I remembered quite vividly the moment on my fifteenth birthday when she had chased me down the street with a semi. I still don’t know how she got the keys to it.
“Trust me, it wouldn’t have mattered.” He gestured towards the cafeteria, “The kid hungry?”
Choc beamed at the mention of food and started drooling. After all the insanity of the last... good god half a day, I couldn’t help but bust out laughing.
Dean chuckled as he placed a hand on my shoulder and guided me to the cafeteria, “Come on chuckles, lets get something to eat.”
“Hah, heh hooo. Man I needed that.” We left the streets and got some food. The next couple of minutes were spent just talking about the stupid antics that we have had during our time here in Equestria.
“And this one time, she asked me to kick a tree, just to see if I could handle it!” Me and Choc laughed at Dean's story.
“Ha! Oh that’s priceless. Okay, Just yesterday I got chased around Canterlot by the guard, I didn’t even do anything!”
“I heard about that! Wasn’t it little man here that did everything?” he gestures towards Choc.
Choc smiled and rubbed the back of his head. “Ah was just lookin’ fer my Cutie Mark.”
“Kid you set the street on fire.” Choc huffed and pouted in his seat.
“I don’t want to set the world on fi-yah!” Dean mocked. “But seriously, I know three fillies who really need to lighten up about it...”
I laughed “Yeah, He and a couple kids back in Appleloosia made some group called ‘The Cutie Mark Crusaders, Appleloosia division’ or something. Got the Idea when his cousin visited town for a week.”
Dean’s eyes widened as he groaned, “Oh god, he wouldn’t happen to be an Apple, would he?”
I smiled and patted the little guys head “Yep, Chocolate Apple.”
He then grimaced like he was talking about Excalibur, “Oh god they’re multiplying...” He groaned as he facepalmed.
I chuckled and started rubbing my temples. “I’m guessing you live in Ponyville?”’
He nodded with his face still in his hands, “Yeah,” he then looked at me, “I take it you live in Appleloosia?”
“Yep.”
He then smashed his face into the table, “He even fucking talks like Big Mac, great...”
I blinked and glanced around to see many ponies looking at us. I turned back to him and poked his head. “Hey, get up man. You’re making a bit of a scene.” I froze as I looked out the window.
He peeked his head past the table, “I don’t give any damns. It’s like my vacation in Manehatten all over again...” I gestured to the window with a look of fear as an all too familiar face showed up again.
“DEEEEEEEEAAAAN!”
Dean looked at her then back all calmly, but then his eyes widened and he turned back quickly.
“FUCK ME SIDEWAYS!” He shouted before he sprout from the table and took off.
I tried to get up and follow but stopped as I felt something grab my shirt. I slowly turned to face my doom. “H-hey there Amy, s-sorry about running e-earlier, but uh, um... please don’t kill me.”
“RESTRICTION LEVEL 2 RELEASED!” I then felt myself getting grabbed, and saw Choc come with me. I look and saw Dean with a determined look on his face.
“I AIN’T LEAVING ANYONE TO A FATE LIKE THAT!” He shouted as we soared past the ponies.
I cried manly tears as I looked up to my savior. “Thank you Raptor Jesus!” I think I saw Michael again as we flew by. I just keep seeing him today.
We made it to the train station as he stopped and Dean was panting.
I stood and looked towards the streets. “I think we lost her. For now at least.”
“Oh thank god!” Dean exclaimed before falling on the floor taking deep breaths. He was looking worse for wear as I helped him stand up.
“Damn... I need a-” He pauses when he see’s Choc ,“something to eat!”
I reach into my pocket and pull out one of my many squirrel souls. “Here.”
He greedily took it and devoured it, “Sandy, but good enough...” He sighed.
I shrugged. “With all the crap I get from them, They had it coming.” He quirked an eyebrow and I waved it off. “I’ll tell you later.” I turned around only to see Cerulean standing in front of me glaring at Dean.
“The hell, was that.”
Dean reacted quickly and punted him into the air, sending him to the other side of town, “NOOOOOOOPE!!!” he shouted as Cerulean went soaring through the sky. My eye twitched as I saw him soar involuntarily. It had just crossed my mind that I could have sent Choc on a train home with him as an escort, only to have the plan dashed with a quick kick to the nuts before it could come to fruition.
“Today has been ten kinds of crazy... I need a drink.”
“Trust me, it wouldn’t help.” Dean patted my shoulder. I gave a half hearted chuckle and let Choc climb onto my shoulder for the upteenth time today.
“Yeah, but I still need to see if I can get drunk now that I’m here in Equestria.”
“Like I said, it wouldn’t matter. Pony Alcohol isn’t even strong enough to tingle your tongue.” He grimaced. I take it he tried it before.
“Well damn. I guess I’ll just head on back to the Inn and call it a night.” I walked about two feet before turning on my heel. “Oh, do ya mind if I ask for a favor?”
Dean raised an eyebrow, “Depends.”
I pointed to Choc. “Could you take him back to his cousin’s place? He hitched a ride here and didn’t ask first.” I let a small shudder run up my spine. “His mom isn’t exactly happy.”
He paused for a moment, when suddenly a blonde man appeared from nowhere and wrapped an arm around Dean’s shoulder. I don’t know why, but this man...
“Oh there you are Dean.” he said to him. Dean froze, looking more terrified than when Amy was chasing him.
“Oh... hey Louis...” he said with caution as he palmed his blade hilt. I felt my arm raising for my gun instinctively. There was something that was just... wrong about him.
I then felt a great pressure around my chest, making me groan in pain, “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” He smiled lightly. I saw his shadow and it had three pairs of angel wings. My jaw dropped.
“Wouldn’t want to be a paste, now would you?” My arms snapped to the side and I made a good impression of a statue. Choc got an idea and started swinging on my scarf like it was a rope for some reason. I didn't really give a shit at the moment.
The man chuckled, “Good boy. Now, as for the matter of you, young pony.” He looked at Choc before he smiled. “I think Dean can take you to your Cousin without a problem.” He then looked at said man. “Won’t you?” He looked at Dean, and a silent conversation could be seen being had between the two.
“Y... yeah. I can take you to Applebloom Choc.” He said shakily. Choc smiled and jumped off his makeshift rope and landed on Dean’s shoulder. The man smiled before looking at Dean.
“I’ll be waiting for you in Ponyville Dean.” He smiled before disappearing. Dean let out a breath of relief.
I stared at where the man was standing before looking back at Dean. “Just who was that guy!?”
He turned at me grimly, “Louis Cypher. Say it fast.”
I ran the name through my head before making the greatest imitation of the ‘oh shit’ face in the universe. The 'OH SHIT' face. “Oh.... That’s who.”
Dean nodded, “Yeah. Did you hear about the giant mushroom cloud from Everfree forest?” he asked me.
“Don’t tell me... It was his doing wasn’t it?”
“A single feather from his wings. That’s all it took to level an entire city.” He said grimly. I stared at him, not sure he was telling the truth at first until I looked him in the eyes. There was absolutely no way he was lying. He looked like he was in a daze for a moment.
“It scares me...” He began, “That the fact that he’s only slightly weaker than Death tells me that he’s in a league all his own.”
We stared at each other for a while until the whistle for the train sounded. “You better get going. If Appleslice doesn’t hear any news about Choc any time soon, “I rubbed my neck slightly “I may not live the next time I see her.”
Dean nodded, “Right. I know how much these ponies overreact. Don’t worry, he’ll be safe with me.” He then took his hat off and gave it to Choc, “Here kid. You can wear it until we get to your cousins.”
Choc was bouncing as he made his way over to the train. “YAY! I get to see Cousin Applebloom again!”
Dean smiled lightly and sighed, “Kids... well, I’ll see you around James.” He waved as he boarded the train.
I waved as the train left. “Later Dean!” I watched as it traveled out of sight. I let out a small sigh and turned around. I walked about a yard before I saw Amy turn the corner. “Oh not again...”
She spotted my and ran over. She grabbed my shirt and slammed me into a nearby pillar. I have no idea why there was one there but it hurt nonetheless. “Where is he!”
I pointed to the train station and gave an apologetic smile, hoping she’ll buy it. “He kinda just left town...” Amy looked like she was about to blow. Silver light was pouring out of her eyes and I swear that steam was coming out of her ears.
She let out a frustrated scream before kicking a wall to a music store. Her foot traveled clean through and sent the drum set that was on the other side flying. She just stood there and panted for a while before straightening up and drawing a deep breath. “You got lucky this time Dean.”
I was trying to sneak away when she whipped around and locked on to me. “And Where do you think you’re going?”
I flinched and started looking around for anything that I could distract her with. “Uh, well I was just about to... uh...” I saw Sarah walking down the street about then with, thank god, Feral at her side. “LOOK IT’S A BIG WOLF!”
She glanced over her shoulder and went wide eyed. “You are forgiven.” She dashed over and spun me around with the sheer speed she traveled at. When I came too she was hugging the wolf like her life depended on it.
I heard Sarah shout, “Who the fuck are you!?”
I shouted back to make sure she didn’t try and attack Amy. “Sorry Sarah! She really loves wolves! Could you make sure she gets back to the Hummingbird Inn?”
“Can I fuck her?”
An eye twitch. “THAT’S MY SISTER DAMN IT!!”
“AND!?” My eye twitched again and the only reason for her not to came to mind.
“She’s not gay!”
She stared at Amy for a few seconds before yelling back, “I can fix that!”
I facepalmed loud enough for a clap to echo down the street. “No, just no!”
“Can’t hear you, so I’ll assume you said yes!”
Amy didn’t even bother paying any attention to what was being said and kept hugging the wolf. “HE’S SO FLUFFY!” I just sighed and made my way back to the Inn. When I got there I gave Feather Light a small wave and made my way to my room. She asked about where Choc was and I told her about him getting sent to his family in Ponyville.
As I laid down in my bed I almost fell asleep instantly. I could think of only one thing at that moment and it didn’t completely involve my sister suddenly being in the same town as me, making the same deal as me, and chasing me and her Ex through town.
“Poor Feral... He’s going to get hugged to death.”
***Amy’s POV***
I hugged the wolf and rubbed my face into his coat. “HE’S SO FLUFFY!”
I was grabbed by the back of my shirt and was pulled off of the great canine, much to my chagrin. “Would you fucking stop that already? Jesus Christ, I don’t even know you and you’re just about choking Feral here!”
I looked back and saw who so dared to remove me from the fluff. There was a woman with a mask on staring at me. “But, but fluffy...”
“Great,” she sighed, “he dumped me with the ‘special’ one.”
Did she just call me special? That is not acceptable! “What, did you just call me?” I let go of the wolf and came within inches of her face. “I am NOT some special person! That is one of the biggest wolves I’ve ever seen and I was going to hug it if it killed me.”
She pushed me back and pointed at the wolf, “If you love him so much then fuck him and be done with it, I want to find something to do, and standing here is stopping me from doing that.”
She wanted me to what.... I looked at the wolf and back to her. “Uh... I like wolves, but not to THAT degree.” I was about to continue before I facepalmed at the fact that I didn’t even know her name. “Oh, where are my manners. My name’s Amy.”
She stuck her hand out. “Sarah, not so much a pleasure to meet you.” I took it and paused when I felt a non-fleshy appendage in my hand. It felt... Boney.
“Is your hand... Nothing but bone?”
She looked at me for a moment. “Well, I’d say it looks and feels more like metal, but yes.” Metal? Just what the hell.
My eye started to twitch. “That is not possible. No, no I reject this! Skeletons can not move without muscles! JUST, NO!”
Sarah then pulled her mask down and opened a mouth full of razor sharp teeth, “What the hell is your problem?”
My jaw dropped “Just... What!?” TEETH ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE THAT! Only Sharks can have teeth like that! I sighed and rubbed her temples in an attempt to calm down. If any more stuff like this happens I might go anal on something.
“You alright?”
My eye twitched again as I looked at what had just made itself known. What in the name of FUCK is that! “The Fuck... Is that?” I just had to ask didn’t I?
“I’m a blood elf, why?” Elf.... She’s an elf........ No. No no no nononononononono.
I started screaming at the top of my lungs as my brain finally quit. “ELVES DO NOT EXIST! THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE! NO!! NO NONONONONO!!!!!”
I was grabbed by my shirt again. Sarah had just grabbed me without even looking away from the elf. “Apologize right now, or so help me I will beat you unconscious, wait for you to come to, then repeat step one. Then repeat step two. Then one, then two, then one, then two, then one again for good measure.”
Why the fuck should I apologize? Reality just did a fucking U-turn! “No!”
She spun her head around and got right in my face. She bared her teeth while her eyes glew blood red, “Now.”
I glared back before sighing. “Fine.” looking past her I could see the elf was looking kinda sad. God damn it even if it’s an elf I still can’t take the feels when they’re that sad. “I’m... Sorry.”
Sarah let go of me and nodded, “Good. Now, what to do next... Jav, you got any ideas?”
I looked past the elf and froze. The man behind her had a mark on his eye that I knew belonged to some necromancer family that hunted down some werewolves I knew. We glared at each other as Sarah looked between the two of us.
“Oh I can think of one or two things, yes.”
“Necromancer.”
He nodded, “I am. And I’ll have you know something. I have had horrible experiences with your pitiful race, and I’m not too keen on meeting another one. Give me a reason to, and I will kill you where you stand, got it?”
I growled. “Same goes for you corpse fucker.”
In an instant, he had wrapped a hand around my throat and I was lifted into the air, “Don’t push me, girl, I am not a happy man when it comes to your people.” He then roughly threw me to the ground. God he’s strong, that fucking hurt. I think someone had taken care of her though...
I stopped my thoughts as I remembered who had finished that.
An animalistic growl escaped me, “Whatever, all I care about anymore is finding that Ivory coat wearing bastard and ripping him to pieces...”
“Who, Dean?”
I stopped moving for a moment. Sarah knew DEAN!? I turned to face her. “WHERE IS HE!”
She shrugged, “I don’t know, haven’t seen him for about two hours.”
Two hours... Two FUCKING HOURS!!! I lose sight of him and He’s GONE!!! “FFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCCCKK!”
“Is that why you’re looking for him?” Sarah asked.
I turned to face her. “After what he did, he’ll be lucky if he can still breathe if I see him again.”
What happened next about made me snap, she fell to the ground laughing. She was Fucking LAUGHING!?
I was growling as I fumed. What was so FUCKING funny that she found about this!? He... he... maybe it isn’t such a big deal. “Maybe, I need to let it go...” Damn I thought that last part a loud.
She was still laughing, but it was starting to die down. “L-let what go?”
NOPE! Minds made up. I still hate that bastard. I glared at her and growled showing her my teeth. “The bastard broke my heart damn it.”
“Is that all?” She laughed bitterly this time.
Does she think this is a fucking joke? “Is that all?...” the edges of my vision started glowing silver, She want’s to know why I’m pissed at him? FINE I’LL FUCKING TELL HER!
“IS THAT ALL!?!? HE MADE ME FEEL LIKE I WAS ON TOP OF THE WORLD!! HE MADE ME HAPPY!! AND Then he... He...” My knees were starting to give. “Took it all back...” I broke down and my knees gave way right there. I probably look like a fucking mess.
“You want to know something?” I looked up to see Sarah scowling at me, “I would love to feel like that, I would trade all of my life to feel the way you do right now.”
I stared at her in shock. Just what did she go through to make her WANT heartbreak? I slowly stood and wiped my eyes. “I-I’m sorry. It’s just... so frustrating! Everything was going so smoothly and he just... ended it.”
Sarah stood as well, still scowling. Then she smacked me across the face before I could blink. I turned to her and rubbed my cheek. “Boo-fucking-hoo, you’re life is so horrible. You fell in love with someone and then got dropped by them, that’s so devastating.” She put so much sarcasm into it you could swim in it.
I started to scowl back. “It is when they’re your first lover ever.” I stopped and gave a sad smile. She was right, I can’t change anything by being sore over the past. “But you’re right. I really do need to get over it.”
I smiled devilishly as I thought of Dean and thought of all the ways I could torture him. “Still going to kick his ass the next time I see him.”
Sarah frowned at me, “You are very unlikable, you know that?”
I smiled and gave a hollow chuckle. “I’ve been told.” It’s true too. I never was that likeable when I was alive.
Sarah deadpanned “I’m not surprised.”
I couldn’t help but laugh as I looked down at her. I thought came to mind as I realize that she was a foot shorter than me, reminds me that I was sent to make sure James was Okay. “By the way, do you know where my brother James is? I don’t see him anywhere.”
She just shrugged, “Not a fucking clue.”
I sighed and looked at the elf. Still can’t get over the fact that those ears are real. “I know I said sorry, but you still kinda freak me out.”
She frowned as she stared at me. “I will send you to the Twisting Nether and laugh as you are torn apart by abysmal horrors you never knew existed.”
I leaned back and put my hands up in defence. Man that sounded unpleasant. Makes the Wendigos seem like a cake walk. “And now it’s for a different reason.”
The elf looked at me with an unamused stare. “So, first it was racism, now it’s because I’m angry at you for being racist.”
“No, it’s just that I like my body in one piece.”
“Oh you’ll still be in one piece, that’s the fun part about it.”
I involuntarily gulped while smiling awkwardly. “Oh, that’s... Nice...” I looked around before turning to Sarah. “SO SARAH! You want to go somewhere?”
She shrugged yet again. “Sure, I guess.”
I grabbed her by the arm and started pulling her in a random direction. I had no idea where the fuck I was going but I didn’t care at the moment. “Great! Let’s get going then, shall we?” I walked in place as she didn’t move an inch. I looked back at her and saw she wasn’t even trying to resist. “Uh... are we going or not?”
She pulled her arm back and motioned for her friends to follow. She said, “Alright, let’s go.”
Author's Note
HELLO EVERYONE! Here's the latest Chapter of Orchestra of Death! Enter, the Sister with unstable emotions! And save James' ass from the wrath of an angry mother. But what will happen next? Stay tuned to find out!
Just to get this out of the way.... Picture a Raptor in Dean's outfit and a halo..... and try not to laugh.
Also, can you find the Spongebob reference in here?
Sarah, and her group belong to Fire Blanket,
View Online
A Canterlot Symphony Act 7: Reporters and Trains
As I walked down the street towards the Inn, I started to think about how my day has gone so far. I started to list off the things that happened as I counted with my fingers.
“Let’s see... Went to market, got in random race, made a friend, punched a guy, got ass handed to me by said guy, guy turns out to be my sister’s ex, said sister suddenly shows up and is a wraith, chased through town, became friends with Dean, got chased a second time, Dean ate one of the squirrel stash, met Lucifer himself, sent Choc to stay with his cousins, and narrowly avoided death by the hands of my sister a third time thanks to Sarah showing up at the right moment....” I looked up and replayed the events in my head.
“14 randomly occurring events.....That is the closest this place has gotten to feeling like home, and I didn't even get hurt to a severe degree! That’s positive at least!” It’s true too. Everyday when I was alive something weird would happen to me in one way or another. I would explain it to you, but that would require me knowing how it happened, so I’ll leave you to ponder that.
I kept walking until I reached the Inn. When I entered the lobby, I spotted and moved to the nearest seat available and collapsed into it. I was asleep in seconds.
I awoke to the sound of the doorway opening as Feather was exiting the kitchen. Feather noticed me and waved until she noticed the lack of pony on my shoulder. “Where’s your friend?”
I smiled. “Don’t worry, he’s fine. I sent him to stay with his cousins.” I laid my head back on the small table which looked awkward due to my height, but I didn’t care anymore. “Today has been all kinds of crazy...”
About then a light brown pony with a camera almost literally flew into the room. The only thing that was preventing her from literally flying was the lack of wings and horn on her head. “Is this where the tall thing that was running through town is?” Scratch that... 15 events. I stared at the pony before she started levitating her camera into my face and taking photos. “Would you mind if I asked you a couple questions sir?”
I blinked a couple times to regain my sight. Either my new found wraith powers only make me immune to natural light, or that is one damn powerful flash bulb. “Okay, what would you like to ask?”
She pulled out a notepad as she kept taking photos. “Did you know that you had a child hanging from you during the race?” Wait, WHAT!?
“Woah woah woah, What?”
The mare looked at me with a raised brow. “You didn’t notice a young colt hanging on to you during the duration of the race?” I sighed and rested my hand on my forehead. That kid is going to get himself hurt and I’ll be to blame when it happens... even if it’s not my fault.
The mare looked around nervously for a moment. “Well, um, could you still answer a few questions for me? If that’s not too much trouble.” I think she thought she offended or irritated me and I was some kind of predator cause she was acting... well considering I eat souls, I guess that would be an accurate assumption, but she don’t know that so... Schme.
I forced a smile and turned to her. “Certainly.”
She levitated her note pad in front of her. “Okay... er, who are you?”
I had to resist the absolute urge to slam my face into the nearest wall. She's a reporter and doesn't even know who she's talking too? Just... Fail! “James. Now, next question?”
“What business did you have at the castle? Many state that after your first run through the city you headed straight there.” She was waiting patiently as I rubbed my chin.
“It was nothing really, I was just invited to have a small conversation with the princess.”
She scribbled something on her notepad and looked back at me, “Okay, next question. Multiple ponies reported you traveling with others, who or what were they?”
What were they? What kind of a question is that? “Um, well there was Sarah, along with Michael... I think the shorter one was Arlosia or something, The tall guy was Jav... and yeah. Besides them there’s just me, Dean, and strangely my sister Amy.”
“Okay.” She wrote it down, “Were you to same person who caused the fire yesterday?”
I stared at her with an ‘are you serious’ look. “No, next question please.”
She wrote that down, “What about the panic at the ‘Silver Wing Hotel?’”
I blinked for a moment as I couldn’t really remember what she was talking about. “Um... What?” She stared at me for a moment before I remembered what Dean had done and facepalmed. “Oh, right. No, that wasn’t me. I was just a witness at the time.”
She made a noise of understanding, “Hmm... You mentioned your sister earlier, why is she here?”
I shrugged. “I have absolutely no idea whatsoever.”
She peeked over my shoulder, “Oh really, why don’t we ask her.”
My back stiffened as I slowly turned my head around. Amy was standing right behind me for, like, the fourth time today. “Uh, Hi Amy.”
She just stared at me before she started laughing. “Oh you worry too much. I’m not going to do anything.” She calmly sat next to me as I looked at her in shock. Not five minutes ago she was ready to rip my head off and now she’s.... Happy?! Just what in the everliving fuck happened to calm her down!?
Amy turned back to the reporter, “Now your question, I’m here to make sure this idiot here doesn’t blow something up on accident.”
I whipped my head around and glared at her. “Hey!”
Amy shrugged, not even facing me. “What, It’s true. You have bad luck written all over you.”
The news reporter coughed lightly to draw our attention. “Anyways, how exactly did you two come to the Princesses attention?”
I pondered this for a moment. “Well, I did save an entire town... so I guess word got out and Princess Luna wanted to talk with me.” Amy raised her eyebrow and I just shrugged.
“Alright then,” She turned to Amy, “now what about you?”
Amy smiled politely. “I have yet to speak with the princess as I have only arrived in Canterlot this morning.”
I stared at her in disbelief. GOOD GOD! SHE WAS HERE FOR LESS THAN 24 HOURS AND SHE MANAGED TO SNIFF OUT NOT ONLY ME BUT HER EX AS WELL!!
Amy turned to me and smiled. “James your eye is twitching, and you’re going to catch flies if you leave your mouth open like that.” Oh, I guess my jaw dropped from the absurdity of what she said.
I raised my hand and slammed my jaw back in place before shaking my head. “I’m not even going to ask.”
The reporter scribbled down the last of her notes and smiled as she looked back up at us. “That’s all I need, thank you for your time.” The reporter rushed out of the lobby and ran down the street. I think she was headed in the direction of the Silver Wing.
I turned to look at Amy, “You have anywhere to stay?”
Amy shook her head. “Nope, why?”
I got up and stretched. Or at least tried to as my hands hit the ceiling. “Want to just follow me around? I was going to head back to Appleloosa anyways.”
Amy shrugged “I don’t see why not.”
I made my way over to the stairs. “Alright, I’ll grab my things and be right down.” I ran upstairs and grabbed my suit and the extra bits I had. I got back into the lobby and made my way for the door with Amy in tow.
Before I opened the door I looked back to Feather. “I hope you keep having good business Ms. Light.” Feather called out after us as I opened the door. It took less time than I thought getting to the trainstation.
We were sitting on a bench when Cerulean flew up next to me. Despite getting punted across Canterlot after getting kicked in the face my Dean he looked pretty good. “Where you headed off to?”
I stretched and a loud pop came from my back. “I’m just headed back to Appleloosa and taking the sister with me.” Cerulean went wide-eyed when he saw Amy. “Don’t worry, She won’t do any harm. I think she’s calmed down.”
Amy hit me lightly on the arm. “Shut it.” I laughed as she tried to smack me upside the head. Soon the train had started to pull up and I waved farewell to Cerulean as I boarded the train bound for Ponyville.
Once on board I lead Amy to my usual car and laid down in one of the seats. Small as it was, I still was able to get comfy and take a nice cat nap.
~Amy POV~
I sat in the uncomfortably small seats looking out of the window. James was snoring rather loudly and looked like an idiotic cat that twisted itself into a knot. That or a college student at 5AM, they pretty much look the same.
I looked farther down the tracks to see how far we had to go when I saw a small black dot. What in the... The dot started to come into focus and I realized it was someone stuck in the tracks.
I ran to the front of the train and barged into the engine room. “Stop the train!”
The mare jumped and looked at me in shock. “Mam, Please go back to your car! Passengers ar-”
“There is someone stuck in the tracks!” The mare looked at me in disbelief before she looked out the window and gasped. She quickly ran up to a lever and pulled, causing a screech to ring through the train.
I ran out of the engine room and found an open window a car down. I leaned out enough to see that it was a man with his foot caught under the board connecting the rails. “Hey! You alright?”
The conductor stuck her head out of the engine rooms window and started yelling at the man. “What in the name of Tartarus are you doing in the tracks?!” The guy just sat there staring at the conductor, before he facepalmed slowly.
“You just going to stand there?”
He looked up at me and yelled “I was teleported here and my leg was caught under one of the boards. Ya think you can help me out and tell me where the nearest city is?“
I looked at the guy and got an Idea. Oh, I can screw with this guy. Troll mode activate. “Sure, but its going to cost you!”
His jaw dropped and I was having a hard time trying not to laugh. ”What do you want!”
I decided that it would be too cruel to keep this joke going. “Well for starters your name!”
“Johon!” Huh, sounds German... I hopped out of the train and walked up to Johon to help pull him up. When he was standing at his full height he towered over me. Which is something on it’s own considering I’m 6’2".
“Wow you’re tall.”
He blinked a couple times before smiling awkwardly “Um... Th-thanks?”
I chuckled and rubbed the back of my head. Crap, that came out a little insulting. Maybe I can salvage this. “You don’t take compliments well do you?”
“That’s because by the tone of your voice I didn’t know if you meant it as an insult or a compliment...... since you know my name will you tell me yours.”
I internally facepalmed as I tapped my chin. Should I? Eh, I don’t see the harm. “Amy, it’s nice to meet you Johon.”
The conductor leaned out of the window. “Would you two hurry up and get out of the tracks? I’m running late now because of you!”
I sighed and turned back to Johon. “Well, now that you’re not stuck, I got to get back on board before the train leaves without me.”
I was about to leave when Johon stopped me. “Um, before you go. Do you mind if you can tell me where ya staying at?”
I thought about it and remembered that James said something about a town named after apples. “I think James said ‘Appleloosa’.” I climbed back onto the train and it started to pull away. As my window passed Johon I leaned out and yelled. “ALSO, NEAREST TOWN IS CANTERLOT! JUST HEAD DOWN THE TRACKS!”
As the train continued on its way, he waved farewell. I got back into the train car and sat down in the cushioned seat. Still uncomfortable... I took a quick glance at James to see that he had managed to roll off of his seat and was laying face-first on the ground. I slowly drifted off into sleep with a small chuckle.
But it’s better than nothing.
~Elsewhere~
A unicorn mare walked down into an alleyway. Her hat and trench coat covering her features as she stopped at the far end. She took a quick glance behind her before pressing on a brick in the wall. the brick slid open revealing a small monitor and an empty slot.
The monitor flickered to live and showed a silhouette of a woman. the figure spoke through a distorted voice. "Did you get the information?"
The mare nodded. "Yes Madam President." She brought out a notepad and photos, the top one depicting a blonde man in a black shirt, before sliding them into the slot where they vanished in a flash of light.
"You have done well agent. You may take your leave."
The mare hastily saluted, "Yes Madam!" The wall sealed itself as the mare left the alleyway, leaving not a trace of what had just transpired.
Author's Note
UPDATE! FINALLY!
It's nice to be able to tell all of you who are watching this story that I'm not dead. I'm just lazy! Also, Ooooooh mystery person~
Johon belongs to The Thief's story "Revenge of a Lone Wraith." and while It's rating is rather.......eh...Try to look past the grammar errors and be nice.
Everywhere we go.... Pt.1
I have found myself in many strange positions when I’ve woken up, but face-first in a train is a new one. "How did I get like this?"
Amy was sitting in her seat and yawned. “You rolled out of the bed again. Now get up, the train stopped.” I blearily raised my head and saw light coming in from the window. I think it’s about sunrise.
I glanced out and saw the train had stopped at Ponyville station. Just over the buildings and streets I could see apple trees. “Well come on Amy, we got someone to pick up.”
Amy looked at me with confusion. “Who we picking up?”
“Just a kid who followed me to Canterlot, and was brought here to his cousin’s place by a friend.” NOT GONNA MENTION DEAN!
Amy shrugged and followed me out of the train and looked around at the buildings. “Quaint.”
“Yeah, now...” I jumped onto a bench that was next to the entrance and posed. “ONWARDS!”
Amy stared at me before facepalming. “Really James?”
“Yes.” I leaped off of my perch, startling a few ponies, before running down the road. I don’t know why, but this place felt... How do I put it?.....Uh....Schme, I’ll think of something later.
The apple on the trees were becoming visible as I felt something grab onto my shirt. Looking back I saw Amy yet again. “Would you stop doing that?”
I crossed my arms and huffed. Why am I acting like such a kid? “Fiiiiiiine. we’ll walk like normal people.” I looked to my side and saw a mixture of reactions, ranging from surprise, giggles, and indifference.
Amy apparently noticed too. “I was expecting a bit more of a reaction.”
“Maybe we’re not the first wraith they’ve seen?” Oh god, I hope she doesn’t find Dean. I felt a shudder run up my spine.
“You okay?”
I glanced around nervously. “Uh, yeah. Peachy.”
She narrowed her eyes and I could feel her glare on the back of my head. “Dean’s here isn’t he?”
“Um...” I could feel my hand twitch as I looked for a distraction. Unfortunately, Sarah wasn’t here with her huge pet wolf. “I-”
I was interrupted by a yell coming from above us, “Oh sweet Jesus help me!” I looked up as a kid ragdolled over us. “CATCHMECATCHMECATCHMECATCHME!” He landed a few dozen feet behind us. “Ow, my nose...."
I blinked a couple times before walking over to him and helping him up. “Dude, you okay?”
Amy smacked me upside the head. “He just fell out of the sky and you’re asking if he’s okay!?” I grumbled obscenities at her under my breath as the kid popped his back.
“Aye... Just had a little trouble.” He looked at us, “Oh! Ye two staying here, or passing through?”
“Passing through. I’m just here to pick up a friend.”
“Ah... Just a warning, ye might want to stay away from Sweet Apple Acres.”
I sighed as I slumped forwards. “Well crap, that’s where we’re headed.”
“Oh... thats bad.” He looked off to the side. “Oh god...” He grabbed both of us. “Third Hollow.”
Both me and Amy blinked. “Huh?”
“Shh! She’ll hear ye.”
“Hear who?” A pink pony popped out of the kid’s shirt. Just... what... what just happened? “I don’t see anypony.”
“Oh hey Pinkie,” The kid acted like the pony popping out of nowhere was normal. Which is far from that. Why isn’t he freaking out?! “I think I heard someone break a Pinkie Promise.” Just what the heck is a ‘Pinkie promise’?
She gasped, “Nopony breaks a Pinkie Promise!” She vanished back into his shirt. I stared at it for a while before tapping his hand.
“She’s gone. Reveal.” I stared at where the pony was for a second, and was unable to form a coherent sentence.
Amy was making this rather funny face from her confusion. “Uh... I’ll take your word for that. That sounded... Unnaturally demonic for a pink pony.”
He shrugged, “Alright then... Well since ye can’t hang around here or go to the Acres I’m going to have to improvise.” He held out his arms, “Grab on.”
“Okay?” Me and Amy grabbed on and he pulled out an old book. “By the way, what’s your name?”
He grinned while flipping through the pages, I looked at the pages and saw nothing but what looked like scribbles. “It’s Alexander.” He stopped on a page and looked at me, “But call me Alex.” He muttered a few words under his breath as the wind around us began to increase in speed.
Amy let go of Alex and grabbed onto me instead. “What the fuck!”
He lurched back as blood came dripping from his nose, “Don’t do that!” he tilted his head forward. “The magical backlash hurts like shit.”
Amy started to glow a faint silver, which confused the living shit out of me. Why is she... Oh wait that was a bit of an awkward moment.... “Sorry.”
“Ugh... I need a towel, I’ll be back.” He started walking away as blood started leaking from his ears. “God damn it all.”
I ran up next to him as he started to walk away. “How ‘bout we come with you. I mean, you know this town better than us so...”
“Good idea, but hurry please. I’ll start bleeding from my eyes soon.”
Amy paled slightly. “I’m so sorry. I just... have had bad experiences with magic.”
We looked at her for a couple seconds before he was looking at me, “Ah... I see. Secret?” Uh......what?
“Yeah.” Again..........What?
“My lips are welded shut.”
I looked between the two of them. “Okay seriously? What secret!?”
Alex looked at me, “Ní dhéanfaidh aon ní.”
“Uh....” I sighed and threw my hands in the air. “Screw it. I’ll just find out later.” We followed Alex through the town until we came across the most interesting house I had ever seen. “Is that a giant gingerbread house?”
Alex grabbed my arm. “Unless ye want to meet the pink one, I suggest ye keep moving.”
I made a silent ‘oh’ before I continued following him with Amy in tow. She was being oddly quiet, but considering she just accidentally made a guy bleed from his ears ‘cause she freaked out... I’ll leave her alone for now.
“Oh cock sucking damn it.” I looked at Alex only to see blood dripping from his eyes. “I can’t see... Ye’re gonna have to lead me.”
I grabbed him by the shoulders and place him in front of me. “Okay, we’re in front of...” I looked to my left and read the sign on the building next to us. “Sofa and Quills with it being to our left. Were to?”
“Go right then turn left at the fountain, then head to the giant tree.”
“Alright,” I turned him to the right, “FORWARD MARCH!” I pushed on Alex’s back to help him move and Amy just followed. The directions were simple enough and we all arrived at the tree quickly. “Okay, we’re at the tree, That surprisingly has windows and a door... Now what?”
“Knock on the door, a purple unicorn should answer the door.”
Amy was laughing slightly. “Yeah, or maybe I’ll see a baby dragon.” She went up to the door and knocked. The sound of small feet rather than hooves could be heard from inside.
Alex chuckled, “Ye just had to say that didn’t ye.”
Amy looked at him for a moment before the door opened revealing a small purple lizard. Oh, look. A baby dragon. “Uh... What...”
The dragon looked up at her and then at me. “Hey Alex... Who are they.”
Amy was standing there frozen. “What...”
I quickly moved her over to the side and smiled. “Hello, Do you mind if we come in? Alex needs a towel.”
The dragon looked at Alex and sighed, “Another experiment?”
“Interruption.” Amy was glowing a faint silver as the dragon gave a swift nod and opened the door.
I was about to talk until I saw the walls. So... many... books... Just who needs this many books! “What’s with all the books?”
“Uh... It’s a library.”
I facepalmed quite audibly. “Of course it is...” Okay seriously brain, you couldn’t piece that together? WTF!
The dragon walked up and handed a towel to Alex, “Here.”
As Alex accepted the towel I looked at some of the books and noticed that almost all of them were boring as fuck non-fiction or were really sciencey. “Where’s the fiction?” The dragon pointed to the shelf behind him and I moved over to see what there was. “Thanks.”
Amy looked around herself and eventually asked a question that probably should have been on my mind. “So... are you the librarian here?”
The dragon looked up and smiled. “Nah, That’s Twilight. I’m her number one assistant!” He finished by puffing out his chest. Heh... Macho, macho man. He Just needs a mustache and his image shall be complete.
Again I blinked in confusion to my own thought processes. Again... WTF brain!
Alex sighed in relief as he blinked his eyes, “SUCCESS!”
“Good to see your eyes are better. Now could you explain why it would be a bad idea to head over to the Apples at the moment?”
He shivered, “They multiplied.”
Amy looked over at him. “They?” Oh, I have a pretty good idea what he’s talking about.
“The CMC...”
I sighed. “I’m guessing that by multiplied you meant that there was a small colt with them?”
“Ye know him?”
“Yeah, I had De-ahhhhhh I mean a friend, bring him here cause he followed me to Canterlot a couple days ago.”
He frowned, “Ye mean Dean?” I started to panic and started waving my arms in front of me for him to stop talking.
Amy narrowed her eyes and kept looking at him. “Could you elaborate further? On both subjects please.”
He stared at her, “ Firstly, the CMC are four little ponies that somehow managed to get their hands on medieval weaponry and stole a couple spells from my book.” An explosion rang out and Alex groaned and stood up, “And they just summoned an Infernal.”
I looked at him with an expression of confusion and concern as I stood next to him. “I don’t know what an Infernal is, but it doesn’t sound friendly, and I am not going to let it hurt a kid.”
"Think giant pile of boulders that decided to take a humanoid form and light itself on fire... With Demonic. Green. Fire." He turned towards the door, "Come on, we need to hurry."
I sighed and shook my head. “That sounds like something Choc would cause. Let’s go save him before Ponyville is ashes.” Amy went wide eyed as she looked at me in disbelief. “And yes, it really is. I had to kill a sandworm he led into town last week. Now let’s get off our asses and GO ALREADY!”
Alex held out his arms, “Quickly, grab my arms!” Amy reluctantly grabbed back onto his arm with worry on her face.
I smiled as I clamped on. “ADVENTURE!”
He glared, “Ye ruined it.” He sighed and muttered a couple words under his breath before the world became a flash of light, and we found ourselves outside of a farm. “Ta-da!” Amy seemed to be checking if she was missing any body parts for some reason.
I looked around and saw nothing but apple trees. Not a trail of smoke, flame, or fleeing towns pony. “So where-” I was cut off by an explosion behind us. “Nevermind.”
Alex turned and stepped back, “Scratch that... They summoned an army of them.”
Amy looked at the wall of flaming rocks and groaned. “This is going to take a while.”
I was about to make a comment when I felt something crash into my legs. Looking down I could see four little ponies with capes heaped together in a tangle of legs. “Choc. What is this?”
The small colt looked up at me and gasped. “Mr. James! Ya gotta help us! We were readin’ that book Scootaloo got us and all the rocks lit on fire!” Only Chocolate Apple can defy physics enough to light stone on fire
“Ye mean my book?”
The orange pegasus, who I'm assuming is Scootaloo, popped her head up from the heap of pony. “Hey, it was in a library!”
Alex stared deadpan, “Chained to my pants and sealed with a key around my neck.”
The four of them hug their heads and looked at his feet. “We’re sorry.”
I looked at Choc and shook my head. “This is a new record.” A ungodly roar rang from the flaming mass. I turned away and stared at the Infernal army as it got closer, My guns at the ready. “But you four need to head to the farmhouse. Now.”
Choc started to protest. “But-”
I looked over my shoulder and stared him in the eye. “No, buts. Just go!”
Amy readied her bow and shot an Infernal that was starting to get close. “I’d listen to him, and see if you can find some help.”
The yellow filly perked up. “Ah’ll go get Dean!” My inner self started bashing it’s head on the inside of my skull as the four of them ran towards town. GOOD FUCKING GOD DAMNIT! She just HAD to say his name!! Now Amy knows Dean is HERE!!
(OST)
Alex thrust his hand towards an Infernal, “Lightning Bolt!” A bolt of lightning flew from his hand and impacted the closest Infernal, which promptly exploded.
“Gaia’s Wrath!” An giant fist made of rock sprouted from the ground and struck a large group of infernals, crushing them into dust, “Honestly, I expected something a little more... stranger. But then again, this is Ponyville...” I looked towards the source of the voice and saw what I think was a ‘stoner Jesus’ standing there. I have no idea who that guy is, but wow that was cool.
Alex groaned, “Hello to ye to Jay.”
Jay groaned, “Don’t tell me. It was you Alex.” Jay facepalmed.
I raised an eyebrow at them. “Let’s save this for later, excuse me, Explosive shot!” I switched my pistols over to a missile pod and fired, blasting three of the Infernals. “But we have an issue right now.”
Jay smiled, “That we do.” He brought his hand up, making the ground shake, “I love doing this around noobs...” all of the sudden, an axe sprouted from the ground and flew into his hands, he flourished it and got into a battle ready stance, “Lets dance.” He charged into the group of Infernals and started swinging his axe, leveling one of the Infernals in a single swing.
I whistled as it fell to the ground. “He’s got a nice swing.” I readied my missile pod “My turn, Ex-” I stopped when my face plowed into the ground. Looking up I could see Amy had used me as a springboard and launched herself into the air. “Fucking really!”
Amy ignored me as she charged an arrow in her bow. “Lunar Arrows!” She fired and the arrow split into five before piercing the heads of some of the Infernals that had started to surround Jay.
Jay laughed, “I should thank you, but I had it!” He charged his axe with energy and swung at five in a row, cleaving them in two, “Try to keep up!”
“It didn’t have to end like this.” Some of the Infernals exploded as Alex grinned. “Doom Paul anyone?”
I blinked as what was left of the Infernals vanished into dust. “Well, I didn’t expect that...”
Jay face palmed as he dodged a fiery fist from an infernal, “Really? memes? God how un-original...”
“Says the hippie Jesus.”
“At least I don’t need memes to do my fighting.”
Amy fired more arrows into the remaining Infernals “Would you two stop bickering like a married couple and help!?” She dodged a shot and her leg started glowing. “Howl of the Wolf!” She charged at the Infernal and kicked the center out. The Infernal started grasping at the hole before it collapsed and extinguished. When the hell could she do that? And what's with all the wolf and moon references?
Alex appeared on top of one and slammed his staff into it’s head before he blasted another one with the dead one. “I know how to fight thank ye.” He jumped off and blocked a fist with his staff. “Arcane Beam!” Another Infernal exploded into rubble.
I looked around and saw that there was only about five of the things to my left. “Rapid shot!” I charged at the head of the group as my guns changed into their machine gun form and the Infernal swung his fist down at me. I jumped onto it and let him fling me into the air causing me to peak at about fifty feet.
Amy looked up at me and gawked. “What are you doing you idiot!”
I could only grin, “BULLETSTORM!” I fired as I twisted myself to be facing the Infernals from above. The bullets crashed into their bodies and chiseled away at what I believe to be the head. It had eye sockets so I think it was the head. But I have been wrong before...
“Guillotine Driver!” A large cross like beam erupted from the ground and destroyed at least twenty Infernals. I looked and saw Jay swinging at even more Infernals, “This is just too much fun!”
I landed back on the ground with my hands and flipped over to Jay. “You are absolutely right! Standard shot!” I switched back to pistols and fired at two that were in front of me. “Nice axe by the way.”
“She’s my baby! Couldn’t work well without her!” Jay laughed as he cleaved another two Infernals.
Amy was holding her own and looked over at me. “How are you doing so well? I was expecting something to happen to you by now.”
I looked back. “Like what-” I was interrupted by one of the Infernals punching me into a tree. Oh just perfect...
Amy blocked an attack without even looking as I pried my face free. “Like that.”
I glared at her. “Fuck you.” The Infernals started to pound on my back as I was pinned. All I could do was take the hits. “A little help!?”
The Infernal glowed a bright green as it was lifted into the air and slammed down again, causing it to explode. “Ye’re welcome~”
I growled as I stood back up and popped my back. “Okay, now I’m pissed. Explosive shot!” I brought back out my missile pods and aimed at the remaining Infernals. “EXPLOSIVE INTRO!” A wall of missiles flew forwards and smashed into the remaining Infernals leaving nothing in their wake but charred earth.
Jay laughed, “Guns are so impersonal.” He grabbed one of the infernals heads and jumped into the air, “Emerald Driver!” When he landed, the shockwave shattered surrounding infernals, “I prefer getting up close!” he shouted as he swung at even more of them.
Amy was finishing off yet another Infernal and was starting to get angry. “Just where in the everliving FUCK are these things coming from!”
Alex blinked before speaking up, “They should have vanished by now, unless...” He looked to the sky. “FUCK ME!”
I looked up and gawked at what I saw. There was a giant fucking hole in the sky. A GIANT. FUCKING. HOLE! And more of those things were pouring out of it! JUST GOD DAMN IT CHOC!
Jay laughed jovially, “This party’s getting crazier!” he began to glow, “Let’s get wild!”
“RESTRICTION LEVELS 1 AND 2, RELEASED!” he erupted with power as he charged into the fray, “Let’s kick some ass!”
I stared at him as he ran before turning to Alex and pointing. “How did he...”
He grinned, “Like this lad. Restriction level 1, release!” Alex’s body began to crackle with energy. “Then ye move to number 2. Restriction level 2, release!” His body gave off even more energy. “Lets-a go!” He ran towards the infernals, “LEEEEEEEEEEEERRRRRRRRRRRROY!”
In the crowd, Jays voice could be heard, ‘JEEEEEEENKIIIIIIINSS!!!!”
Amy and I blinked as we looked ahead. Eventually I just threw my hands into the air. “Fuck it. Restriction level 1, release!” I felt a surge of energy rush through my body as I gave off a faint glow. “Whoa... That was... Cool.” I grinned as I started to run into the battle. “CHAAAAAAAAARGE!” I could hear Amy behind me as I ran. I looked back and saw a quick flash of silver fire before Amy joined me in my charge.
“Do you know what you’re doing?”
I laughed and did my best german accent. “I HAVE NO IDEA!!”
All of the sudden, a hand smacked me on the back of my head. It was Jay, “No more memes, only fighting.”
Alex spoke up, “Wait, what was that from?!”
Jay shouted back, “Don’t worry about it!”
“Fine, Standard shot.” My guns changed again. only this time they formed a pair of revolvers rather than my desert eagles. ......Wat..... “Uh... okay, this is new.”
“Dream A Lonely Dream!” Giant tentacles with teeth burst from the ground around us and started to attack the Infernals. Alex thrust his hands towards the rift, “Keep them busy!”
Amy nodded and charged into the cluster that was in front of us. “Lunar Bane!” Five Infernals shot into the air from behind the front most drawing their attention as the airborne ones crashed into them. Oooooooh that sounded painful.
I was firing at any that were getting too close and was starting to get overwhelmed. Shit. If this keeps up I’m screwed. I looked up as a bird flew overhead and got an idea. I focused on the thought of flying and felt light beginning to coalesce on my spine. “Solar Winds!”
A pair of wings shot out of my back and slammed into the nearby Infernals. I took a closer look and saw they seemed to be made of golden glass, but ran around my hand as if they were water. Light construct wings? Me Gusta... Me gusta a lot.
“NO!” I felt something whack my head, “NO SAYING THAT STUPID MEME!”
I turned and looked at Alex as he continued focusing on the spell. “Okay, who hit me. I know it wasn’t an Infernal!” I shot an Infernal that got too close to Alex and took off into the air. The wings worked better than I thought they would.
Alex piped up, “That would have been me lad.”
I glared at the mage from above as I shot down another Infernal “Well fuck you, I didn’t say any memes!”
“Then explain the ‘me gusta’ please!”
I blinked in surprise. “You heard that? I was thinking it not saying it!”
“Oh... Not again!”
“Now you can read minds? I call bullshit.” Jay deadpanned as he blocked a fist from an Infernal and threw it into a group of other Infernals.
“Nope! Just accidentally read the previous paragraph.”
My brain froze for a moment as I tried to register what Alex was saying. Uh......... Wat? I just threw my hands in the air. “Whatever Dr. Insano. Explosive shot!” I flew over the Infernals as my guns changed into a pair of bazookas. BAZOOOOOOKAAAA!............Okay brain, I'll let that one slide.
“Just don’t pay attention to him! It’s what I do!” Jay shouted as he dodged a fist from an infernal and cleaved it in two.
I blasted the Infernals as they were falling from the portal. It was getting to be kinda fun. “This reminds me of Duck Hunt, but with rocket launchers.” Okay, for the third time now. WTF BRAIN!!
“Minus that annoying dog! Oh wait... SORRY ALEX!” Jay shouted.
“Thanks fer the compliment!”
I looked around below me and grew confused. “Anyone see Amy?” Before anyone could answer, Amy burst from a pile of Infernals and was coated in silver fire.
“ANYONE ELSE WANT SOME!?” An Infernal came up from behind and got an axe-kick to the face. “NOT FUCKING TODAY!”
I blinked and looked down to Jay. “Nevermind, shouldn't have even asked.”
“Hell hath no fury like a womans scorn.” Jay said as he smiled. He has no idea, and I hope it stays that way. I internally shuttered at the thought of what would happen if Amy found Dean here. There would be no place to hide.
Alex suddenly yelled from below. “GOT IT!” I looked up and saw the rift was starting to close. Thank god that’s over.
Jay shouted, “It’s about fucking time!”
“Ye can’t rush... Perfection.” Alex groaned as he fell on his ass, “Gimme a sec.”
Jay sighed as he helped Alex up, “That’s what you get for overextending yourself ya moron.”
“Well pardon me fer closing a giant hole into the Twisting Nether.” LOLWAT!?
Jay stared at him, “You already know I have the highest endurance out of all of us. Next time, tell me how it closes and I’ll do it.”
“I highly doubt ye can handle fifteen separate spell matrixes whilst keeping yourself from getting your soul sucked in.”
Jay glared at him, “Are you fucking kidding me? Do you even know what I can do?”
I rapidly waved my hands in front of me and shook my head. “Whoawhoawhoawhoa Hold on a sec. That lead to the Twisting Nether? As in WoW’s Twisting Nether?”
Alex looked at me, “Yeah... And it’s not only attached to WoW. It’s the space in between worlds.”
I blinked in shock before leaning back against a tree. “Wow... Didn’t expect that.”
Amy walked with a spring in her step as she emerged from a clearing that was blocked off by some trees. “Ah, I needed that.”
I looked at her in confusion. “You NEEDED to be attacked by flaming rock monsters?”
Amy shook her head. “No, It was a pretty good workout.” I could only stare as my eye twitched. Workout.... WORKOUT!? SHE CONSIDERED THIS A WORKOUT!?!? IS SHE NUTS!?
“I agree.” I stared at Alex, “I haven’t had that much fun since the third war!” WHAT!
Jay sighed, “I haven’t worked up a sweat... ugh... I miss going to other worlds and fighting big bads... I want to fight Kefka again.” LOLWAT!!!
Alex looked at him, “Really? That insane clown thing... Though I must admit, destroying a world fer fun. He totally stole that from me!” BIGGER WHAT!!
Jay glared at him, “That came out before you dumbass. Besides, Kefka does it better. Then again, I would also like to fight Chaos again.”
“I would have prefered him to Yogg Saron... I still feel violated from the tentacles, and the tongues. So many tongues...”
My jaw had hit the ground by this point and buried its way to the core of the planet. My eye was twitching at such a rapid pace it looked like it was closed and see-through.
Amy looked at me and giggled. “I think we broke him.”
Alex looked at her and grinned, “Aye... I did something like that with the murlocs. God damn that was funny.”
My brain had decided that it had had enough and promptly shut down. In simpler words I fell back and fainted.
Author's Note
Another Chapter! and even More crossover and background for Amy!
Jay belongs to Serpenti
Everywhere we go... Pt. 2
Oh not again. I groaned as I started to pull myself from what felt like a couch. I looked around and found myself in the library again. “Is the insanity gone?”
Alex chuckled, “Ever see a murloc dance with a little cane and top hat... Fucking weird.”
I groaned and laid back down. “Nope, It’s still here.”
“I’ll stop... Can’t be insane all the time.”
I gave him a thumbs up without lifting my head from the soft plush cushion. “Thank you. Is Choc safe? If not I need to find a new identity.”
“He’s fine.” Alex moved something closer, “Just getting yelled at with Applebloom for tearing a hole in reality.”
“Applejack sent a letter describing what he did yesterday.”
I raised my arms into the air after rolling off the couch. “PRAISE THE LAWD! I WON’T BE BLAMED FOR THIS!” I let my arms fall down and flop next to me. “Still feel sorry for the kid though, his mom’s going to be pissed.”
“Don’t be... I might has spun a couple lies and gave myself the blame. She replied this morning,” He sighed, “She wants me to meet her. And Death is making me go.”
I looked at him from the floor. “Protect your jewels. She has knives!”
He burst out laughing, “Titansteel cup. Only a TSAR bomb can break it.”
I pulled myself from the ground and grinned. “I need one of those... Fate has got something against me when it comes to my groin.” As if to emphasize my point, some books flew off a shelf as the door slammed open and crashed into my crotch. “......God damn it......”
Alex was rolling on the floor as a purple unicorn looked at me, “Oh my gosh! I’m sorry!”
I smiled despite the pain and spoke in a slightly higher pitch. “It’s fine. Just... give me a sec.”
“Lad... I’ve seen orcs run up a wall while trying to invade Stormwind. And that still topped it!” I glared at him briefly before standing. A loud pop rang through the room as I bent backwards. MY BACK! MY FUCKING BACK!!
Amy had followed the purple one into the room shortly after and was sighing. “I don’t know how you are so unlucky. It’s like you’re cursed or something.”
Alex did this little dance, “Exposition, exposition. E-x-p-o-s-i-t-i-o-n!”
The unicorn and Amy looked at him in confusion, “I don’t want to know.”
Alex blinked, “That’s right. Ye don’t.”
I sat back on the couch and sighed in relief. “I’ll just take Jay’s advice and ignore your shenanigans.” I looked over to the unicorn as she hastily was putting all the fallen books back on the shelves. “I’m going to assume you’re the librarian?”
“Of course.” She smiled, “My name is Twilight Sparkle!”
I smiled and placed a hand on my chest. “James Fredric Hindenburg, Just call me James!” I pointed to Amy for a brief moment. “And she is my sister Amy.”
Amy made a small wave with her hand as she leaned on a wall reading one of the books on the shelf. “Hey.”
“And I’m Carmen Sandiego,” We all looked at Alex, “Guess where I am!”
All of the sudden, Jay appeared and slapped Alex upside the head, “Enough already.”
I looked over and waved. “Oh, hey Jay.”
He waved, “Yo.”
Amy snapped her book shut and tossed it next to me. “Now about my question earlier Alex.” I looked at the book and paled as I saw that the title was, ‘A Hundred Ways to Torture.’ “Could you tell me where Dean is?” Oh he’s fucked... and how is this even here? Ponies aren't THIS violent!
Jay narrowed his eyes, “Why do you need to know?”
Amy smiled innocently. Liar. “Oh no reason~ I just need to show him what happens when you piss of a Hindenburg woman.”
Jay’s axe floated near him, “Now I have no reason to protect him. But know this. Killing another wraith that works for Death is not tolerated. It’s punishable by being destroyed.” His body glowed with power as pressure filled the room, “Do you really want to risk it?”
Amy glared at him. “I’m not going to kill him. Just beat the ever living shit out of him.”
Jay scowled, “Watch who you snap at. I may be Lax, but I won’t hesitate to do what I need to do.”
I quickly jumped from my seat and got between the two of them. “Now now. No need for violence. I’m sure you can talk this out with Dean. Right Amy?” The glare I got was my only answer. “Oookay then. You go have fun hunting down your Ex.” Sorry Dean, It was this or die.
Jay laughed, “So quick to back down.”
I looked over to Jay as Amy ran out the door. “You would too if you knew her as long as I have. Dean ran away when she chased us in Canterlot.”
Jay shook his head, “He didn’t run. He simply wasn’t ready to face his past. He has a lot on his mind,” He glared at Amy, “You harassing him isn’t helping.”
I sighed as I followed his gaze to the doorway that she vanished out of. “I understand, but it’s hard to keep her on a leash most of the time.”
Jay shook his head as he sighed, “That girl... she’s way too stubborn for her own good. No wonder Dean dated her.”
Twilight spoke up, “Anyone see Alex?” We all looked around and noticed a lack of Mage in the room.
I shrugged and leaned back in the seat. “I don’t know what he’s doing, but in the short time I’ve known him I think it would be best not to try and figure out.”
Alex’s voice could be heard from outside. “ADVENTURE!” We looked out of a window and he ran by holding all of the crusaders.
Choc was trying to get free of his grasp. “Mr. James! This guy’s crazy!” You said it kid.
Jay sighed, and slammed his axe into the ground. A small fist made of earth slammed into Alex’s face and made him drop the crusaders and Choc, “Fucking moron.”
Alex burst into seagulls as the crusaders were picked up and flown away. “MINE MINE MINE!” Fucking really?
Jay’s eyes narrowed as he smiled, “I’m gonna kill him. I’m gonna kill him till he’s nothing but paste.”
I grabbed my guns. “I’ll help.”
A sigh came from the corner, “God damn it...”
I looked over and saw a seven foot tall light purple elf with green hair standing there facepalming. Thank god Amy isn’t here at the moment. “Um... and you are?”
“Lorne...” She thrust her hand to the sky, “Leap of Faith!” Two of the crusaders, the white unicorn and Scootaloo, flew down and gently landed in front of her. “Leap of Faith!” Then Choc and Applebloom appeared.
“Thank you. Now I don’t have to hunt for Alex.” Choc ran up and hid behind my legs. “Hey there Choc.”
He started climbing up my legs and onto my shoulder. “That guy was crazy. Can we go home now? Please say yes.”
Jay laughed, “That would be best for the poor guy. Too large of a dose of Alex and you go constipated.”
I chuckled and shook my head. “Yeah we can go. But we need to find my sister first.”
Choc looked at me in surprise. “You have a sister?” Did he... did he really forget... ah screw it, he’ll remember when he sees her.
I walked outside and couldn’t see any sign of Amy. Now where could she have gone...
~Amy POV~
Where is that sack of shit.... I was trudging down the street looking at every cart and down all of the alleys that I passed. “Grrrrr. Where is he?”
A flock of seagulls flew overhead and landed on some mare’s carrot cart. “MINE MINE MINE MINE!” They seemed to glow a bit before they exploded into a bunch of feathers, revealing Alex on top of the cart. “Top of the morn!”
The mare started whacking him with a rather large carrot. Must not think bad thoughts. “Get off of my cart!”
“Very well.” He vanished in a flash and reappeared next to it, “Goodbye madam.”
I just looked at him before facepalming. “Just really? I’ve known you for less than a day and you already confuse me to no end.”
“What is important is to spread confusion, not eliminate it.”
I scoffed and turned to walk down the street. “Whatever mage. I’m hunting for my Ex at the moment.”
“I take it ye mean Dean?” He appeared next to me, “We all got a grudge.”
I looked at him and stared. “What’d he do to you.”
“I’m pretty sure ye’ve heard about the Tacoma bank incident.” Thinking back, I remembered Dean was rather upset for a week after that, had two less noobs, and was paying for a funeral.
I stared straight into his eyes. “That was you who got killed, wasn’t it?”
“Aye...”
I scoffed again. “Your reason makes mine look petty.” Which it kinda is...
“And that reason is?”
I sighed as we stopped near the gingerbread house a second time. “He stole a piece of my heart and never gave it back...”
He sighed, “Law of equivalent exchange, for each thing taken something must be given.”
I stared at him. “He broke up with me after dating for a good seven months. He was my First! It was going so well! And then he just...” I threw my hands in frustration. The anger quickly died down and was replaced by sorrow. “Ended it. Just like that. One moment everything is perfect and the next... it’s just... gone.”
“Ye have any idea why?”
I sat down on the steps and pulled my knees to my chest. “Now that I’ve stopped chasing him and thought about it. It makes sense I guess.” I looked over and saw him motion to continue. “It started about a week before we broke up. That’s a month after you died...”
I was walking home after one of our dates and I wasn’t paying attention to where I was going. I was about a block away from home when some guy in black started to follow me. I pretended not to notice and started to walk faster. He sped up and I started to run. Soon he was chasing me through town.
He caught up to me and grabbed my arm. “It’s about time I found one of you damn wolves.”
I tried to pretend that I was just some average person. “What are you talking about? Let me go you freak!”
The guy clocked me across the back of the head and I was out like a light. “Sleep tight Amy Hindenburg.”
Alex leaned back a bit, “Oh... shit.”
I shuttered at the memory. “Can I finish please? This is... hard enough as it is.”
When I woke up I was chained to a dirt wall with a gag around my head. My wolf ears and tail were visible and I felt weaker than I should have. The guy from before was sharpening a knife. “Ah, you’re awake! That will make this fun!”
I started struggling until he waved his hand and skeleton arms reached out and grabbed my torso and head. I realised about then that he was a necromancer and started to panic more. This was the second time that it had happened, and I didn’t want to become some hideous monster.
The silver blade burned as he pressed it against my cheek. Tears were flowing freely from the fear and pain I was experiencing. “Now hold still while I carve out that pretty little heart of yours.”
However, the door burst open and Dean and his friends burst in with guns, “YOU PICKED THE WRONG MOTHERFUCKER MOTHERFUCKER!”
I tried to call out but the gag was still in the way. The Necromancer cursed under his breath before slamming his fist into the wall. I was pulled in along with all the bones so I don’t really know what Dean did after that. I was barely conscious when I saw light again from the lack of oxygen.
He pulled me out and he grabbed me into a hug, “Thank you god... Thank you... Are you alright!?”
I looked up and hugged him back. I was crying too much to speak as they carried me out of the complex. I had nightmares about the incident for weeks, and I could tell it was affecting Dean .
“... I later learned that Dean hadn’t left anything that resembled the guy who kidnapped me when he was done. A few days later, he ended it. He said that he felt responsible for what happened.” I sighed and pressed my face into my knees, hoping they would hide me. “Though it’s truly my fault for being so careless.”
I felt a hand on my back. “He did do it to protect ye... Think about it.”
I smiled sadly and looked at Alex. My eyes flashed yellow for a moment. “I know... But it still hurts...” I stood and looked back again. “And I will. Now let’s go find James.”
About then I heard someone calling for me and saw James heading over to us with.... Chocolate... I think? I waved back and we started to head to the trainstation.
James looked over his shoulder and called to Alex. “You comin’ or what?”
“But of course!”
Chocolate looked at James in shock. “He’s comin’ with us!” James nodded, “Why!?”
“Cause he was nice enough to take the blame for what you caused today.” Choc hung his head slightly. “Now what do you say Choc?”
The colt turned to Alex and looked at him nervously. “Um... Th-thank you...”
Alex smiled gently, “Ye’re welcome, and I apologize for scaring ye earlier.”
Chocolate’s demeanor suddenly did a 180 and he was smiling. “Apology accepted! Hey, do ya think ya got any spells fer cutie marks?” James slowly facepalmed while chuckling to himself.
“I have one that can reveal a destiny... But those who have used it went insane.”
Chocolate’s smile dropped. “uh.. That’s okay. I’ll just get mine the normal way.” Smart move kid.
Alex chuckled, "Applebloom asked me the same thing." I couldn’t help but laugh as we walked to the train station. Most of the time we spent on the train was James trying to get me to tell him my secret, with me and Alex constantly redirecting to another topic.
The train ride was mostly quiet, and I was starting to relax.
“Um... Ms. Amy?”
Well there goes relaxing... I looked down and saw Chocolate looking at me with curiosity. “Yeah?”
“Are ya really Mr. James’ sister?”
I chuckled and rubbed his head. “Yeah, I am.”
He smiled wide and got this little sparkle in his eye. Must..... Not...... Hug!...... “Can ya do all those tricks that Mr. James c’n do? Can ya can ya can ya!?”
I quirked a brow and looked over to James. “Tricks?”
James started to rub the back of his head. “I’ve been practicing my powers by putting on little light shows for the kids in town. That, and by heading out into the desert around noon every other day.”
“Speaking of...” A small green elf appeared on the floor and started battling with a small green orc. You’ve GOT to be kidding me...
James smiled. “Ooo, WoW battles! I’ve missed those.”
Alex frowned a little, “I’ve lived them for two. F- Freaking. Years.”
I chuckled a bit. “Not as fun in real life is it?”
Alex nodded, “Aye. Contrary to popular belief, the inhabitants can be REALLY annoying.”
That’s what I thought they were when I first saw the game. “Eh, Never cared about the game.” I laid back in the bed that was in the car. “Wake me up when we get there.”
James raised his hand as he laid back in his seat. “Alright.”
“Very well lass.” Alex reached into his pocket and pulled out his spell book.
I sighed at the comfort the bed provided. Better than that seat I had earlier. I quickly drifted into sleep as the train moved to a new town.
~James POV~
As soon as Amy was asleep I turned to Alex. “Okay, explain to me why she was so mellow when I found you two?”
Alex sighed, “I found her and talked to her... She told me why she was hunting him. That luckily calmed her down.”
I relaxed and released the breath I was holding. “Oh, good. I thought she had found Dean and brutally mutilated him.”
He waved a hand, “Eh... Thats my job.”
I laughed and got a buck to my shin from Choc. “Ow! What was that for?”
He pointed a hoof at the bed and I could see Amy stirring. “Ya almost woke ‘er up, and we ain’t in Appleloosa yet.”
I sighed and chuckled at his childish seriousness. “Okay, I’ll quiet down. Promise.”
Alex nodded, “Same.”
Choc smiled triumphantly before he was stopped by a yawn. I chuckled quietly, as promised, when he climbed onto the bed and curled up next to Amy. An arm reached around Choc as she cuddled with him in her sleep. The levels of Dawww has skyrocketed! Even if it involves my sister.
Alex fell backwards, “Diabeetus.”
I nodded as I clutched my shirt above where my heart was. “Same.” I started to chuckle before I yawned as well. Even after I had that nap, I still felt drowsy for some reason. I decided that it was best not to question it and just sleep as I headed over to the top bunk. “I’m callin’ it a night. See ya in the morning Alex.”
Alex nodded, "Right... Night."
I climbed into the bed and my eyes felt like they were made of lead. The moment they were closed I fell into the inky abyss that is known as sleep.
~Alex's POV~
I sighed as he fell asleep and picked up my book. God damn it all....
(OST)
For the second time I since I became a wraith, I found myself in the dream coliseum. I looked around and found myself not in the preparation rooms, but instead, I was sitting in the stands. A banner was blocking my view and was still as the others were waving in some unknown wind.
I stood up and moved around the banner to find the other me from last time wasn’t in the arena. I looked at the stands and the large VIP box to see if I could spot him anywhere but found only dusty chairs and curtains.
“Hello again James~”
I turned around to find the other me standing on the back of one of the seats. He grinned with grey sharpened teeth as he looked down at me with blood red eyes. Unlike last time though, they were not glowing, revealing the blackish grey ‘white’ of his eyes which was fucking creepy as all hell. I also noticed that his hair was slightly darker than mine, uncut, and ragged to the point you would wonder if he knew what a comb even was.
“Yes, I do look stunning don’t I?”
Okay that was freaky. “Who are you and what is going on?”
He let out this strange laugh that sent a shiver down my spine. “Oh wouldn’t you like to know.”
I scowled and reached for my gun. “Just tell me where... I...” I patted my sides but couldn’t find my weapons. “Huh?”
“Looking for these?~” I looked back and saw him holding my holsters. “You won’t be needing these little things. At least, not at the moment anyway.” The holsters were thrown into the center of the arena with a flick of his wrist.
I looked into the arena and felt a crushing pressure on my head. I keeled over slightly as I clutched the sides of my head in agony. “JUST WHAT IS GOING ON!”
“I’ll at least answer that one for you.” He appeared in front of me and I jumped back into a seat. “It’s something every single one of your ancestors have gone through. Ever since the first of your past selves managed to piss of the god Loki.”
What is he talking about? Ancestors? Loki? Just what kind of answer is that!
I glared before I swung my fist at him, only for him to jump over me and land on one of the seats in the back row. “And Just what would that be huh!?”
“Now that would be spoiling the surprise~” He pointed behind me and had a calm smile as he did so. “Loookie there~ and you can leave.”
“I hope I don’t see this place again.”
I turned around and saw him jump down and land in front of me, before grabbing the sides of my head and lifting me off of the ground. It hurt like all hell as he purposely started stretching the skin on my face. “We’ll be seeing each other again. I can promise you that.~”
I struggled in his grasp as the ground and arena started to fade. “Just... who... are you!?”
He grinned as his eyes started glowing as they did the last time. His mouth vanished as he drew his arms back. “I think you’ll find out soon enough.” He threw me away from himself and I landed in the center of the arena.
The ground shattered under me as I landed before I fell into an increasingly intense white that stung my eyes and burned at my skin.
“GAH!” I shot out of the bed and smacked my head on the roof of the train car. “Owwww. My head.”
I looked over to talk to Alex. But instead of him, I see a girl in Alex’s spot, “Umm... Hey James.”
I blinked for a moment before squinting at her. She looks a lot like...“Alex? Tha-” My hand clapped around my mouth as soon as I heard my voice. Why is my voice this high? “What’s going on?”
“I accidentally the rule 63 spell.” The... rule what now?
I stared at her for a moment in confusion. “What are you....” I looked down and noticed that something was VERY wrong. One, was that I had more weight on my chest. Two, my hands were much more slender. Three, there was long strands of blonde hair hanging in front of my face.
And four, was the haymaker that was the reason for numbers one through three.
“WHY DO I HAVE BOOBS!!”
Alex grinned uneasily, “Happy hanukkah!?”
I jumped down from the bunk I had taken and grabbed her by the shirt. “Don’t make a joke about this! You better explain why I have boobs right now or I will DESTROY YOU!! ”
“I accidentally cast a spell that turned everyone in the train car to the opposite gender and I can’t reverse it!”
Can’t... Reverse!... “WHAT!!”
A deep masculine voice rang from the bunk behind us. “Would you shut up James! I’m trying to sleep.” I turned around and saw a muscled man looking at me and Alex. “And why the hell are you two crossdressing? That’s just weird, even for you James.”
Oh shit oh shit oh shit oh shit oh shit. I was frozen in place as I stared at him. There was a small filly curled up in his arms. OH SHIT OH SHIT OH SHIT OH SHIT APPLESLICE IS GOING TO KILL ME!!!!
“FIND A COUNTER SPELL OR SOMETHING NOW!!”
The man sitting in the bed was looking at himself in confusion and even checked in his pants. “James, why do I have a penis?”
I looked around the car before pointing at Alex. “Uh................. I BLAME HIM!”
Alex leaned back, “Ye son of a...”
We were both lifted into the air by the back of our shirts by my new brother. “Would you two knock it off?”
I gawked at her before going into a full blown rage. “YOU DON’T GET IT!! BECAUSE OF HIM..er. HER!! I DON’T HAVE MY JUNK ANYMORE!!! I WANT THAT BACK DAMNIT!!!!” We were dangling as my shirt began to slip off. OH SHIT!
But it was too late. I landed on the ground with a thud and looked down at my chest and sniffled. “I have boobs now.....”
I paused and let the thought and what I saw sink into my mind. Wait........ I have boobs...... Boobs.......Big... Boobs.........Yeeeeeeessssssssssss.
I started reaching when my arm was grabbed by Amy. “Don’t even think about it.”
Alex spoke up with a bright green glow, “Um... Don’t take this the wrong way, but ye have amazing tits.” Don’t know how to react...... Now that I think about it, his are.... NO, BAD BRAIN!! NO!!! JUST NO!!!!
Amy was looking away with a slight glow. Dang it, that’s not helping!
We all froze when we heard a yawn from the bed. “What’s all the noise about?”
Alex’s eyes widened, “Oh god....” I quickly grabbed my shirt from Amy and put it back on. The boobs kept getting in the way.
Choc looked at us in confusion. “Who are you people? Where’s Mr. James?”
Alex looked at him, “Choc, don’t panic but I might have turned us into the opposite gender so that means that Mr. James is now a Miss. And ye are a filly, soooo yeah.”
He blinked in confusion for a moment before looking between his legs. “AHHHHHHH!” He quickly shot his head in my direction. “Why am ah A FILLY!”
I ran over and started holding him in a hug. “Don’t worry buddy! I’ll force Alex to find a way to fix this!” Cause it’s his fault to begin with!
Alex was looking through his book, “The spell says that I can’t reverse the spell within a day of casting it, but I can cast an illusion to make us look normal. But if we run or yell it will shatter.”
I grabbed her by her shoulders and pressed my forehead to hers. “DO IT!! DO IT NOW!!”
“OKAY, Daoine bhfolach!”
A flash of light washed over us and I found myself to have the appearance of a male once more. “Oh, thank god.” I looked over to Choc and leaned down to the colt. “Now remember, No running or yelling. We do not need to cause a commotion that I will be blamed for.”
He gave a quick salute. “Yes sir, Mr. James!” He started to walk down the car but stopped when his ears perked up. “Does this mean no crusading today?”
“Sorry bud, but yes it does. Besides, I don’t think you mom’s going to let you crusade for a while anyways.”
“Awwwwww.” Choc started pouting and Amy was chuckling as she stood behind me. I couldn’t blame her, that was pretty funny.
Alex smiled and leaned closer and whispered, “I think I know what ye’re going to do later.” He raised his eyebrows rapidly.
I glowed slightly and turned away. “I have no idea what you’re talking about....”
“O rly?” He leaned closer, “I think ye’re going to sit in your room and explore your body, and come up with an excuse so I can postpone reversing it.”
“Ha!”
Choc looked between me and Alex before turning to Amy. “What did he mean by explorin’?”
Amy glowed a light silver before Alex interrupted, “Well... I can tell ye, but it’s a secret.” Amy nodded in approval to Alex’s tactic to avoid the question. Thank you for once Alex.
The train started to come to a stop and I could see Appleloosa out the window. “I hope this plan of yours works Alex.”
“Don’t hope... Or it will fail.”
I looked back out the window and felt worry creep up my spine. Why do I have such a bad feeling about this?
~Alex’s POV~
As the train stopped James, Amy, Choc, and I left the train slowly and a light brown mare with a light blonde mane ran forwards and stared at Choc. “CHOCOLATE APPLE!”
Choc flinched and kept his head down as the mare marched up to him. “H-hi mom....”
She suddenly lost all traces of anger and swept him in a big hug. “Where have you been! I’ve been so worried about you!”
Choc broke down and started crying in her embrace. “I’m sorry... I’m sorry I’m sorry I’m sorry...” *sigh* Family....
I spoke up, “Um... Ma'am. Ye wished to see me about the Ponyville incident.”
The mares faced turned to an icey seriousness as she glared at me. “You’re Alexander Harris?”
“Yes ma’am.... I am.” I’mdeadI’mdeadI’mdeadI’mdeadI’mdeadI’mdead. Oh wait... .
She picked Choc up and placed him on her back. “Come with me for a moment. We need ta discuss some... details, about the incident.”
I nodded and started moving, “Of course.”
I stopped when I felt James’ hand on my shoulder. “It’s been nice knowing you...” THANKS FOR THE CONFIDENCE!
I shrugged him off and followed her. We reached a quaint little home and she led me inside. She made her way to the stairs and put Choc on the ground. “Choc go to your room. You’re grounded.”
Choc hung his head and turned for the stairs, “Okay...” I lost sight of him as he made his way down the hall at the top.
I turned towards her, “So....”
I felt a breeze as a knife stabbed into the wall next to my head. OH SWEET JESUS WTF! “Kitchen. NOW.”
“Yes ma’am.” I quickly walked in and stood next to a small dining table.
She followed in shortly after and pointed to a chair. “Sit.” I sat down quickly, grunting in annoyance as my knees nearly touched my chest. “Good, now ah want to know exactly what happened, and if ah find out that ya lied ta me....” Another knife embedded itself into the table a solid inch.
I nodded calmly, “I was minding my own business in the Ponyville library when Chocolate and his cousin, with friends, asked if I could cast a spell, saying they wanted to see a ‘Trick.’ We went out to the outskirts of town and I added too much power to a simple summoning charm, thus tearing a hole in reality. I managed to get all of them to safety as James and Amy, his sister, helped in closing it.” POKER FACE BITCHES! Wait, hold on... NO SHIT! Okay, I’m back.
The mare stared at him before resting a fetlock across her muzzle. “I believe ya, but did ya say James has a sister?”
Why is she... oh yeah. “Yes... but don’t worry. She’s quite normal compared to James.”
She let out a sigh of relief. “Oh sweet Celestia, I thought we would have two walking disasters....”
I laughed at that, “Yeah... In the three minutes I first peacefully talked with him, he had five unlucky things happen.”
Suddenly, outside, an explosion could be heard. “OH COME ON!!” Oh boy... Here we go.
~James POV (5 minutes earlier)~
I was walking down the road with Amy following me. “So, want to see the town?”
She shrugged. “Sure, it’s not like I’ve been here before.”
I grinned and started leading Amy to the Orchards and grinned. “I have the perfect place in mind!”
She quirked a brow. “Oh really? And what would that be?”
I turned around and started to walk backwards. “I’m going to introduce you to my friend Braeburn! He can give you a proper tour.” I entered the orchard and looked around. “That is if we can find him.”
Amy looked at all the trees as we passed them by. “Wow, this is almost as big as that other apple farm....”
I raised a hand behind me and pointed up at an apple. “Sweet Apple Acres was the name. I said it in front of you multiple times.”
I ignored her attempt at a rebuttal due to the fact that I tripped on a root. I felt a strange sensation across my chest as I landed. “Ow.... that hurt.” I pulled myself up and tried to rub where the pain was and found something else.
It was squishy.
OH GOD I CAN STILL FEEL THEM!!
NO SHIT!
I looked around frantically for the source of the voice and Amy just looked at me. “Uh... did you hear anything?”
She shook her head. “No, why?”
I shook my head and stood up. “It’s nothing. Let’s just get going.” I looked up at the apple tree and smiled. “Want an apple?”
She smiled and licked her lips. “Sure, it’s been awhile since I’ve had some normal food.” I’m not even going to ask...
I reached up to grab the apple when I heard the sound of wheels moving down the path. “Outta the way!” I looked over and saw a green pony with goggles on speeding towards us in a cart. Okay, just what the fu-
Time seemed to slow down as the cart collided with my hip. I was sent rocketing into the air flailing like a ragdoll. When I reached the peak of accent, I looked down to see where I would land. I see Choc’s house from here... wait. OH SHIT!!
I started falling and crashed with a small boom. “OH COME ON!” I then heard the sound of shattering glass and saw my disguise had vanished. “Oh, no....” I quickly looked around and saw that I had knocked a lot of dust into the air and dived into a nearby barrel. They won’t be able to find me here... I hope.
I heard Alex’s, now feminine, voice come from inside, “YE FOOL, THE SPELL WAS LINKED TO ALL OF US!” Wait... Oh crap... I looked around from my barrel and started to tip toe my way over to the back door and snuck my way inside. I could hear Appleslice freaking out.
“WHAT IN TARNATION!!”
“Okay listen... I cast a spell that might have turned all of us into the opposite gender.” I heard a knife imbed itself into the wall. “I CAN REVERSE IT, I JUST NEED A DAY!!!!!”
She glared at him as I snuck my way to the stairs. “Did this affect my little Chocolate too?”
“... Aye.”
I was sure that Choc, Alex, and I were going to die in the next few moments as Appleslice glared into Alex with the fury of a thousand suns. At least, until she started to grin devilishly. I don’t like the look of this.
“And James as well?”
“Aye...”
She suddenly turned to the stairway and saw me half way up. Oh shit. I froze as she looked straight at me. “James... Get down here.”
I bolted up the stairs as a knife embedded itself into the wall. “I WANT TO LIVE!!” I quickly found the bathroom and locked myself in. Not even she can stab a knife through this!
Alex sighed, “Damn it James.” The door shimmered as Appleslice walked through it.
I squealed in fear when she popped through. God damnit even that changed... She looked at me with a rather amused face. “Don’t kill me... He followed me, I swear!”
Appleslice chuckled as she sat down on her haunches. “Ah figured as much. And seein’ ya freak out was enough of a punishment fer me.” THAT EVIL MARE!! SHE DIDN’T EVEN COUNT THE KNIVES!! HOW IS THAT NOT PUNISHMENT!?
Alex chuckled while standing outside, “Your face when.... It was hilarious.”
I glared at him and glowed intensely. “Sh-shut up!”
“Oh?” He did this pose and squished his boobs together, “Like what ye see?” I stared at him and noticed his chest was jiggling. Good god..... Must turn away..... Must..... TURN!..... I noticed a small trail of blood leaving my nose. God damn it. He’s actually SEXY like that!!
I started glowing with the intensity of a thousand suns. “Leave. Please.”
He... She sighed, “Fine, if ye want.” A flash of light filled my vision and we were alone in the desert, “Ye never said where or with who~”
I stared at her in shock. OH GOD OH GOD OH GOD!! “I meant that I wanted to be alone!”
She smirked and started walking away, “If ye want... Goodbye James.”
I watched him leave for a moment until I realised that Appleloosa was nowhere to be seen. “WAIT FOR ME!!”
She laughed, “Alright then lass!” Not going to comment. He slowed down as I ran next to her.
We walked for a while until a thought crossed my mind. One I haven’t really had ever since I became a wraith. “I gotta pee.”
Alex blinked, “... Shit.”
~Amy POV (When James went flying)~
The cart collided with James he rocketed into the air. He flailed like one of those ragdolls as he flew up over the town.
The stallion that was in the cart had finally gotten to a stop and looked up at him. “Sorry there!” Just who is this guy?
I heard James crash and start yelling. I ignored him and turned to the stallion. “Um excuse me?”
He turned to me and grinned. “Sorry about your friend there. What’s your name sir.” Sir? He raised a hoof for a shake and I took a quick glance down, noticing I was a man again. Damn it James....
I politely raised my hand and denied his offer. “Sorry, but I’d rather not say.”
He smiled, “Perfectly fine. Well, just to be courteous... The name’s Clever Apple!” He bowed in the cart, “A pleasure!”
I picked up an apple that was lying on the ground before taking a bite. “As it is for me. Could you show me where someone by the name of Appleslice lives? I’m looking for a friend.”
He got a puzzled look on his face. “You’re looking for my wife?” Oh, great. I met the dad already. “Well isn’t that convenient! I was just about to head home!”
I gestured over to the cart he was in and noticed that smoke was starting to come off the wheels. “I’m pretty sure it isn’t supposed to do that.” He quickly ran up to the cart and crawled under it.
“Darn gears... always burning or falling out....” A couple smoking gears flew out from under the cart and he followed soon after. “Great, now I have to fix that.” Okay now I’m curious.
I blinked a couple times before looking at him. “What is this supposed to be exactly?”
“Oh!” He looked at me and grinned, “This my good man, is an self powered car powered by an internal combustion engine.” He looked at the gear, “I just need to find a way to keep it from overheating, and keeping the gears inside.”
An inventor pony? cool. I never thought I’d see that. “That’s pretty cool. Maybe if you worked with a slower speed, it would generate less friction and heat?” He sat there staring at me only blinking every now and then. “I don’t really know what I’m talking about, this isn’t my kind of thing.”
“Ah... Hmm, I might try that.” He stood and shook his head, causing a few smaller gears to fall out of his mane. Ooooookay. That’s weird. “Let’s get going, shall we my good man?”
I flinched slightly but kept smiling. “Uh... sure. Lead the way.”
We had made our way to the front of his house and he waved a hoof at it. “Behold! My humble abode!”
I let out a small whistle. “Nice place,” Seen better... “So are we going to stand here or-” I stopped when I looked over and saw Alex and James glowing in the distance.
Clever noticed too and looked over. “Now who is that over there?”
I sighed and rested my face in my hand. “Just the friends I was looking for. I wonder what’s gotten them to glow so bright?”
I didn’t have to wait long for an answer. James and Alex walked past us and entered the house. I think I heard James mutter something.
He suddenly turned to Alex. “We will never speak of this again.”
Alex nodded, “Agreed.”
I looked between the two of them and just tried to piece what they had said with what I know. Okay... Both are glowing... never speak of it again... James was attracted to his own chest... Did they? No... NO... NONONONONONONONONONONONONONONONONONO!
Alex grinned and smacked James on the ass, “Ye’re cute when ye glow.”
OH GOD OH GOD OH GOD! WHY!! James glared at him. “Never. Again!”
“No. Later~” James shivered and walked up the stairs and I heard a slam from upstairs.
Alex chuckled, “Oh god...” He looked back at grinned, “Hey Amy! I’m already bored... Want to do something?” Nope nope nope nope nope! Yes, ye want this~
I raised my hands and backed away. “No, I’m good.” Nope... Ye want this. I quickly looked at him in shock. “How did you...”
He smiled, “Sorry, can’t control it....”
Clever looked at us and shrugged. “I don’t know what that was about.” He walked in and saw the mare from earlier. “Hey, Honey! Who’s our guest?”
The mare pointed to Alex. “That would me Mr. Harris. He’s apologized fer what happened and brought our little Chocolate back!”
Clever raised an eyebrow, “Mr.? He’s a girl honey....”
Appleslice started to chuckle to herself. “Not after what ah saw.”
Alex interrupted, “I’m a Mage... Lets just say that I have not perfected the gender change spell yet.”
His eyes widened and he made an ‘oh’ face. “I’ve never been one for magic but I’ve seen some spells go rather screwy.” He shuddered slightly. “Never mix magic with Poison Joke.”
Alex blinked, “Poison Joke?”
He looked seriously at Alex, “Never mess with Poison Joke, just don’t try.”
The mare looked over at her husband. “Like you did last week?”
He started to stutter and trip around his own words. “Th-that was just once! And I almost had it! If James wasn’t making a sandwich at the time, it would have worked perfectly!” He sat at the table and huffed. “Doesn’t help that we had to pay for the damages.”
Alex grinned, “Lad... I’ve done worse with a piece of bread.”
James stuck her head out from the hall leading to the upper floor. “IT WAS AN ACCIDENT!” She stopped when she saw that Clever was standing right there. The stare off continued before James slowly slid her head back down the hall.
Idiot.
Clever fell onto the ground and started laughing like a madman. “OH SWEET CELESTIA! WAS THAT JAMES?!”
Alex nodded, “Aye... He screamed that he wanted his junk back.... Oh um, Choc might have been... Um.”
Clever’s laughter stopped and he stared at Alex. “Chocolate?”
Alex rubbed the back of his head, “He’s a filly now.”
Clever started to rub the sides of his head and got back in his seat. His wife went over to talk to him and I pulled Alex to a separate room.
I brought Alex to what looked like a small living room and sat down in some of the chairs. “Okay, when can you change us back again?”
“I need about... ten hours.”
I looked out the window and saw that the sun was starting to set. “Then I guess we’re sleeping like this.” Which reminds me.
I stood and walked into the kitchen and tapped on the mare’s shoulder. “I hate to interrupt, but we don’t have a place to stay the night. Would it be alright if we stay here?”
The mare smiled politely. “Of course, but we only have one available room now thanks to your... sister.” I smirked and she started to chuckle. “I think you could stay in the room next to hers and your friend there can sleep on the couch.”
Alex smiled, “That would be great.”
I clapped my hands and grinned. “Thank you for your generosity!” I stopped to yawn. “sorry, but could you show me to the room?”
The mare smiled and showed her to the stairs. “Certainly.” We waked up the stairs and I noticed the blade in the wall. I decided to ignore it and continued to follow her to the third room down the hall. “Now James is staying in the room next to yours. Ah’ve told him ta go ta the inn, but he still needs ta get a solid income for that ta work.”
I looked in and saw a single bed and a small table with a lamp next to it. “Oh, silly me, I forgot to ask what your name was.”
She smiled as she ushered me into the bedroom. “It’s Appleslice dear. Now have yourself a good rest.”
I laid in the bed and thought about what just happened. Okay there were three rooms... Parents, kid, guest... Where was James sleeping again?
“JAMES YOU’RE SLEEPING ON THE COUCH!” ...Oh....
“Come here James, I’m waiting for ye... In the living chamber!”
James could be heard bolting the bathroom door shut. “NOT LEAVING THIS ROOM!!” I chuckled and laid back down. Yay.... No nightmares from any smexy stuff tonight!
Alex could be heard, “O rly!?” A door being kicked open was heard, “It’s raping time!” I facepalmed as I heard James let out a girlish scream. Nevermind... let the nightmares begin...
I slowly closed my eyes as more noises started pouring through the door and had a strange thought run across my mind. Kinda reminded me of that Psycho movie... schme, he’ll be fine.
I heard a rather strange scream come from the bathroom, “DON’T STOP!” GOOD GOD HE’S ENJOYING IT!!! THE NIGHT TERRORS!!! THEY BEGIN!!!!!
Sleep was hard to come by that night.... Very hard.
Friends and Enemies: Act 1
(OST)
It was about noon and I was walking through town to get out to the desert and practice with my powers. I want to try that wing move I did again. See if I can repeat it. It was kinda a spur of the moment thing, and it was just an advanced light bending trick.
The edge of town was right in front of me when I heard the sound of a small stampede headed for me. I turned around and saw a group of colts and fillies galloping straight for me. I smiled and waved as they stopped at my feet. “Hello everyone!”
They all smiled and cheered. “Hi Mr. James!” It brought a smile to my face. Wow, I missed this more than I thought. One of the colts in the back waved a hoof in the air. “Can ya do a trick for us!” They all started cheering for a show and I couldn’t help but smile.
I put a hand on my chin in mock thought. “Hmmm... Sure. Just give me a sec.” I focused a ball of light into my hand and tossed into an orbit around my head. I caught it and started to bend and shape it. The children oohed and ahhed as it changed into a little man, then a stallion, and then into a griffon.
I tossed the griffon into the air, making it spread it’s wings and fly around the children’s heads, making them squeal and laugh. The miniature griffon landed on a small fillies head and she giggled. “It tickles!” The griffon flew off and back to my hand where it dissipated in a flash of gold sparkles. “Do it again! Again!”
I laughed and made a sphere form on each finger. “Okay then...” I rubbed my hands together and they started to glow. Aaaaaand “Light Puppets!” I spread my arms wide and the lights shot off of my fingers and formed a flock of pegasi. The miniature flyers swooped down and blew the kids manes back. They all laughed and played as a single pegasus flew to each of them.
With each colt and filly playing with their own little friend, some even competing to see whose was fastest, I got up and said goodbye. Most of them were dejected and voiced their opinion. Specifically Rose Blossom, a small pink filly about Choc’s age who was also a member of the ever growing, in both size and infamy, Cutie Mark Cusaders. “Awwwww, but why?”
I leaned down and rubbed the small filly’s white mane. “I’m going to try and make some new tricks. Don’t want to spoil the surprise now do you?”
She gasped and started jumping around. Her orange eyes sparkling with excitement. “A new trick! Can I watch you? Can I can I can I?” She has such a large abundance of energy... It’s almost scary.
I chuckled before waving a finger in front of her. “Ah ah, what did I say?”
She stopped jumping and blushed. “That it would spoil the surprise...”
“That’s right. And besides.” I looked around at the streets to feign secrecy before whispering in her ear. “It’s gonna be a doozy of a trick if I get it right.”
She grinned and started to run down the street to Choc’s house. The rest of the kids went to play at a small lot that was slowly being turned into a playground by the school. The small puppets giving me a final salute before flying along with them. They’ll dissipate in about an hour. Should give me enough time to work on some moves...
I continued my way to the outskirts and found my favorite place in the town. The Water Tower. It was simply the perfect place to view a sunset or sunrise. It didn’t matter which cause it was the highest point in the town.
I’ll come back when the sun isn’t blaring down on me. I kept walking and made my way to about a hundred yards from the Water Tower and stopped. “This ought to be far enough from town.” I closed my eyes and focused on the light around me.
When I opened them once more I could see the light rays as they fell to the ground from the sun. Each golden strand was mine to control, with enough practice, of course. “Let’s try it again.” I started to bend the light onto my back like last time, only the light just formed small shields on my back.
I tried again, and again, and again. Oh come on, why isn’t it working? I thought back to when I did it the first time I managed to do it. Maybe... I ran a couple more yards away from town and took a deep breath. “Releasing first restriction.” Unlike the first time, A bath of gold flames erupted around me instead of a golden shine. It soon dissipated and I felt invigorated instead of drained.
“That’s new... And much nicer than the first time.” I focused again and felt a subtle change in my powers. I was as if I could weave the strands of light together and form anything from a piece of silk to a solid brick if I so chose.
I redirected my thoughts back to the task at hand. Slowly the light started to collect around my spine and I felt it tap into my nerves. What did I call this again? Solar... something or oth- WINDS! It was Solar Winds! Let’s try that . “Solar Winds!”
Just like the first time, a pair of construct wings shot out of my back. I got a better look at them this time now that I wasn’t getting attacked by rock monsters. Still one of the weirdest days I’ve ever experienced.
Every feather was detailed in a way I didn’t think possible, especially for me. I grabbed one and plucked it out painlessly. It shimmered in the light for a moment before dissipating into dust. Amazing.
I looked back and tried flapping my wings when NOT in a stress induced panic. They responded and I felt myself lift an inch of the ground. I can fly at will... Yessssss . I crouched down and rocketed into the air. “WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
I flew over the buildings and I could see a golden refraction of my wings cover the town. It was breathtaking to see as I flew over head. The light bathing the town and all who looked up at me as I flipped and glided through the air.
I swooped down to Choc’s house and my wings dissipated into a myriad of light. “I need to do this more often. That was fun!”
“Woooooah.” I turned around to see Choc and Rose looking at me from his bedroom window. Choc couldn’t come out today or the rest of the week because he was grounded for the whole fiasco caused by him following me out of town. “That was so cool!”
I smiled and waved. “Hey Choc! You like my latest trick?”
They leaned out of his window and beamed. “Are ya kiddin’!? That was amazing! You were all, Wooosh! And then Wooo! and then when you landed it was all Fwoosh! and sparkly and bright and... and... and awesome!”
I grinned and gave a mock bow. “Ah thank you.” This got some chuckles from them. “I would love to stay and chat with you Choc, but I need to go.”
He seemed slightly disappointed. “Oh, okay.”
My grin widened. “Before I do however.” I clapped my hands together and a small alicorn construct formed, “Here you go! Have fun kids!”
They both waved from the window as I left. “Bye Mr. James!”
I felt awesome as I walked down the street. There were so many smiling faces from the younger kids I almost didn’t notice Amy standing off to the side grinning. “Having a good time ‘Mr. James’? Or do I need to come back later?”
I stuck my tongue at her and she laughed. “Whatever. Can you make a pair of working wings, ‘Ms . Amy’.” She glowed slightly and I made my triumph known to all nearby with a loud ‘HA!’.
She smacked my lightly across the back of the head. “Shut it you idiot.” We both started laughing as we walked aimlessly through town. Eventually we ended up in the orchard again, and I leaned against a tree for a quick break. She was sitting in the tree eating an apple.
I turned to her as a thought crossed my mind. “Hey Amy?”
Amy swallowed her bite and looked down. “Yeah James?”
“When did you defeat a sentiment? I mean, you had some powers when you fought those Infernals and when you beat the Void Terror that was in town. So that means you did defeat one... Right?”
She grinned and tossed me an apple. “Yeah, I was staying in a different dimension at the time. Some really weird shit started happening. Next thing I knew, I fought and beat this creepy astrology guy.” She made a silver ball in her hand and made a crude stick figure. “I can do some things with light... but it’s not as detailed as those wings you made.”
I nodded. “Not bad...” I made a small man that sat on my shoulder. He waved at the now slightly irritated Amy, “... but I can at least entertain kids.”
She chuckled and shook her head. “You always were better with the smaller ones.”
I smiled sadly. “Yeah, I was.” Only cause of my little brothers... I hope they’re doing okay...
Amy hopped down from the tree and laid in the grass. I was about to stand up when she spoke up suddenly. “Do you miss them?”
I snapped my head up and stared at her. She didn’t move and kept staring at the blue sky. “What?” Okay something’s up.
She leaned her head back and looked me right in the eyes. “I said, do you miss them?”
I shot up and looked at Amy. “Of course I do! They were my family! I took care of them for years!” I had to explain why mom was gone... I hadn’t noticed but I was crying slightly. I felt a tear run down my cheek and brushed it aside. No time for tears right now.
Amy smiled sadly before turning back to the sky. “Good. It’s nice to know I’m not the only one...”
I gave her a questioning look. “And what made you think that in the first place?” Seriously? What’s up with her lately?
She sat up and looked at the horizon. “The fact you seemed so...” She waved her hands in front of her for a moment, “Happy.” She turned back around and looked at me. “It was like you had forgotten abo-”
She was stopped mid sentence as my hand slapped her across the face. I felt a burning rage from that one word as I stared at her shocked face. “I. Would rather fade from all existence. Than forget my family. You KNOW that.”
She looked at me for a moment before turning to the ground. “Sorry, It’s just been hard dealing with all of this lately. I shouldn’t have even needed to ask.”
I smiled apologetically and sat next to her. “And I’m sorry for slapping ya. You did kinda deserve it though.”
“I hope I’m not interrupting anything.” I turned around to look behind me and saw Death standing next to the tree. He was chuckling slightly as he looked at us. “But I have someone for you to meet.”
(OST)
He stepped to the side and revealed a girl with pinkish, hair. She was wearing a light green T-shirt and white shorts that ended just above her knees. She had a light blue overcoat on top of that and some white sneakers on. She fidgeted nervously for a moment as she twirled her shoulder-length braid. “Hi, m-my name’s Megan.”
I smiled and offered my hand. “I’m James. Nice to meet you!”
She jumped slightly but took my offer. After a quick handshake she let go and started looking around before turning to Death. “Um... If you don’t mind me asking... Why am I here?”
Death grinned and turned to her. “I thought it would be best for you to start with someone who was also relatively new at being a wraith.” I blinked in surprise as she and I looked at each other. Oh... She’s new at this too.
I smiled and grabbed a surprised Amy by the shoulder. “Well then, Welcome to the family Megan!” Amy proceeded to smack me upside the head. I stuck my tongue out at her and heard Megan stifling a laugh as she stood next to Death.
Amy turned to Megan and pinched the bridge of her nose. “I’m sorry about him. He can be an idiot at times... My name’s Amy Hindenburg, but you can just call me Amy.”
She smiled and shook Amy’s hand. “Thank you. My full name’s Megan Brooks, but everyone just calls me Meg or Megan.” I wonder what she’ll think of the town... and I feel like I’m forgetting something... I stopped thinking for a moment and facepalmed.
Amy turned to me in confusion.”What?”
I sighed and slumped over. “I just realized, I left my suit in Ponyville.”
She raised an eyebrow. “You have a suit?”
“Yeah, I have a hunch that sometime soon I’ll be roped into some fancy party or a ball soon.” They continued looking at me until I raised my hand in defence. “It’s just a hunch. I bought a suit just in case.”
Megan was covering her mouth trying hard not to laugh as she watched us bicker. I stopped and looked over before glowing slightly. She smiled as she lowered her hand. “Well I can tell that my stay will at least be interesting.” She turned to Death quickly. “Is there anything that I need to know?”
Death grinned and pointed at me and Amy. “I’m sure that your entry here told you some of the basics, but I’d ask for a tour from one of them.” Death vanished and the three of us were left standing in the clearing.
I turned to Megan and grinned as I did a fancy accent and offered my hand. “Would you like a tour Madam?”
She glowed a soft pink as she took my hand and replied in her own sophisticated accent. “Why thank you good sir.” We both chuckled a bit as we started walking.
Amy was smirking as she looked at us. Her expression was slightly unnerving. Just what is she thinking? “Stop messing with the girl James. You’re embarrassing her.”
I went wide eyed as I slowly turned to stare at her and I started glowing slightly. Megan was glowing a bright florescent pink. “Really?”
She started laughing as I facepalmed and Megan continued to glow. “Sorry, couldn’t help it little bro.”
Megan stopped glowing and looked at me, then Amy. “Wait, you really are siblings? I thought you were just being friendly.”
I started to rub the back of my head and grinned. “Technically, yes. Her parents adopted me and my brothers before this whole Wraith business happened.”
She looked away. “Oh... sorry if I brought up any sensitive topics....”
I waved her off and smiled. “It’s fine. You didn’t know, so I can’t hold it against you.”
Death suddenly appeared next to me, causing us to jump. “Also, I forgot to give this to you James.” He pulled out a box and put it in my hand, “Take care.” He vanished and I looked down to the box. Eh, I’ll open it later. I put the box in my pocket and started leading my new companion to town.
She seemed a bit nervous as we walked towards the actual town and I grinned. “You don’t have to worry. The townsfolk are nice and I’m pretty sure you’ll find some of them too cute to be threatening.”
She blinked a couple times. “Uh... really?”
“Yeah! I mean the kids here are just little balls of energy!” I laughed a bit, “Sometimes too much energy.” I lead her into the town and Amy followed. I continued to show her around, taking her to the theater, The Sheriff’s, and I even showed her the Inn. We kept touring the town and came across the residential district. I noticed a small cloud of dust headed for us and smiled. “And now you’ll know what I meant by balls of energy.”
She looked at me, confused, until I pointed behind her and she saw Choc and Rose headed for us. They skid to a halt and quickly looked at their still blank flanks, before slumping down. “Aww, Ah was sure we would have racing cutie marks.”
Rose walked up to him and placed a hoof on his shoulder. “We still got other things ta try. How bout gardenin’”
He shook his head “Too girly, How bout rodeo cutie marks?”
She pondered it for a moment before smiling. “Sure! Let’s go!”
They paused for a moment before giving eachother a high hoof, “CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS RODEO RIDERS! YAY!!”
They ran off and Megan was staring at them. I waved a hand in front of her face, but got nothing in response. “Meg, you okay?”
She smiled and let out a small squee. “They’re. so. CUUUUUTE!” I laughed as she realized what she had done and started glowing. “Sorry... but they were so adorable!”
Yeah, they can be pretty cute at times... I’m pretty sure that one of them found a way to weaponize it against her mom. I grinned. “Yep. and completely destructive... You should have seen what they did about three weeks ago.”
She smiled. “But they were so cute... It couldn’t have been that bad.” I resisted the urge to tell her about the whole problem with sandworms Choc had inadvertently caused. It’s best that she doesn’t know...
“Well anyways, let’s get you to where Me and Amy have been staying.” I lead her down the rows of houses and we made it to Appleslice’s house. “Well here we are. There aren’t many places to sleep left thanks to both me and Amy staying here... Heck, if I have to I’ll sleep on the floor.”
She started to glow faintly again. “Oh, that’s alright... I could stay at the Inn...”
I quirked a brow. “With what money?” She looked down and started rubbing the back of her head. “It’s alright really, Appleslice is a nice pony. You’ll like her, trust me.”
I knocked on the door and Appleslice answered. True to my word she and Megan hit it off and were talking about some gardening stuff I didn’t pay much attention to. It was getting late and I laid on the couch to get some sleep. Megan had taken the bedroom after Amy offered to take the other couch.
It was getting pretty late. Curiosity took over my mind as I found sleep hard to come by and I pulled out the box Death had given me. What secrets do you hold? I pulled back the lid and gasped.
Inside the box was a necklace that I hadn’t seen for over a month. The necklace was a gift to my mother, my BIRTH mother, from my grandfather. It had a black jewel in the center of a gold base and chain. The jewel itself was flawless and shined in the light.
I held the gem to my chest and started to nod off. Hardly noticeable tears forming in the corner of my eyes.
Thank you Death. Thank you.
Author's Note
I told myself I wouldn't post this for a while, but it's been sitting in my docs for a week now. SO HERE'S THE NEW CHAPTER AND CHARACTER!! ENJOY!
Friends and Enemies: Act 2
The next morning, I was heading to the train station. Amy wanted to see Ponyville again to ‘apologize to Dean’ and Megan said she wanted to follow me for some reason. “You sure you want to come with me? I’m just picking up a suit.”
Megan glowed some and shuffled her foot. “Well, I was talking to Appleslice and she said that one of her cousins was good with taking care of her garden, and I was wanting to talk to her.”
I sighed and shook my head. “Alright then, Let’s get to the train then.” We made it to the train station and I paid for our tickets. Once on the train the attendants kept giving me and Megan weird looks. What’s with the staring?
About halfway through the trip Megan was starting to nod off and Amy was looking... Nervous? Wasn’t expecting that. I would have joined Megan in slumberland if the attendant hadn't knocked on our door. “Would you like anything?”
I looked at the cart and picked out a cupcake. Amy ordered a cookie and Megan got some carrot cake. The attendant brought us our orders and gave a subtle wink to Megan. She looked as confused as I was and we both just shrugged.
Megan caught sight of my necklace as I turned to face the window. “Oh wow, Where did you get that?”
I smiled and lifted the gem for her to see. “It was in the box Death gave me. An old gift from home.”
Amy looked over and whistled. “Wow, haven’t seen that before.”
I scratched the back of my head a bit. “Yeah... She kinda did make me promise not to show or give it to anyone so long as I live, unless I had a kid. Then I was supposed to give it to them.”
Amy smirked. “Well that plan’s a bust... you’re kinda dead already.”
I smirked back and started waving the necklace above my head. “Exactly. I’m dead. So I can wave it around all I want! HAHA!!”
The next couple hours of the trip were uneventful, as it was just us talking about what we used to do before we died. I told Megan about how I played violin and Amy used to play cello Though she denied every last bit of it. She was a good player too.
Megan was a bit more interesting on her story. She apparently was studying to be a biology major of flora at some collage in Georgia. She was fascinated by gardening and the earth in general, so when the topic came up it made her a lot more open than she was when we first met.
It was hard to make her STOP talking. Amy was apparently able to keep up and continue talking to her, while everything else that was said flew WAY over my head and into the fucking arctic circle.
I’ll state what I managed to get out of it. Her favorite flower was blue roses, she knew about thirty different ways to grow a tree including things I was sure was total bullshit, and she doesn’t like excessive deforestation. Yeah, three things. Way to go attention span... Way to go...
“...and then all I had to do to graduate was finish the course.” Megan was smiling and seemed happy.
Amy frowned slightly with a knowing look. “Had?”
Megan’s smile faltered. “Yeah... I died only a couple days before my Finals.”
Amy smiled sadly. “Hey, don't worry. You’d be surprised at how nice this place is.” Megan smiled and looked out the window. “This place is beautiful, and I’ve only been here a day!”
I grinned “If you think this is pretty, just wait.” She looked at me in confusion until we passed through a tunnel, “Wait for it...” When we exited the tunnel, a valley could be seen in the midday sun. Megan looked out in wonder and I smiled. Amy did the same thing... only backwards when we reached desert. She always did like drier areas.
The train ride continued with me telling about what I’ve done since I came to Equestria. From my first encounter with Hamlet, to my run through Canterlot, and finally me and Amy told Megan about our little adventure with Alex leaving out the *cough* other details.
Megan looked at the two of us in surprise. “Wow...you’ve done all that?”
I grinned like an idiot and turned to her. “Eeyup.”
Amy flicked what was left of her cookie at me. “Stop imitating Big Mac... I met him once during the whole Infernal incident and I don’t need you doing his one liners.”
I started laughing and it was apparently contagious as everyone else started laughing for a while. When it finally died down the train was about seven miles away from Ponyville. The sun was starting to set and the town looked amazing from this view. “I’ll never get tired of that view.”
Amy looked out from across the car. “Yeah, Though it seems we won’t be doing any searching for your tux James.”
I sighed as I leaned back in my seat. “I know... Let’s head to the Inn once we get to town.” I looked into my pocket and pulled out a bag of coins. Taking a quick peak inside I counted about 134 bits. “We have enough bits to stay for about four days or so before we need to leave. That or we could shack up in the library. Though I’m not entirely sure that would be a good idea.”
Megan looked at me in confusion. “Um.... Bits?”
I blanked before facepalming. “Wow, can’t believe I forgot to explain that.” I pulled out a gold coin and showed it to her. “This is a bit. It’s what the ponies use for currency.” She made a silent ‘oh’ face before turning back to the window.
The ride lasted about another hour and the sky was bathed in twilight as we headed for the inn. I looked at the setting sun and sighed.
Amy looked over at me as she stood in the doorway for the Inn. “What?”
I looked over and made a small ball of light. Unlike before, it seemed slightly unstable as it shook and warped. “It’s always at night when my powers go all screwy...”
The moon had risen higher as Amy looked at the ball in my hand. What is she thinking? She closed her eyes before making one herself. Slowly but surely, my sphere shrank and dissipated as her’s grew and solidified.
She blinked as she tossed the perfect silver sphere around. “Huh, so that’s why I couldn’t do it earlier... Neat.”
I gawked at her for a moment. “You didn’t even know what kind of power you had, and you could make an explosion with your fist!?” She nodded and I sighed when I passed her into the inn. “Let’s just get our rooms...”
Megan was walking behind me with Amy and I went and got us a room. We went upstairs and collapsed onto the three beds that were provided. Why are there three beds in this room anyway? I thought the standard in this world was two...
I shrugged it off and started falling asleep.
(OST)
Good. Fucking. God, not again...
I was back in that stupid colosseum for the... what third time now? I was standing in the arena where I landed the last time. I am going to beat the shit out of whoever is making this happen.
“I’d like to see you try~” Turning around I could see the ‘other me’ and he was grinning evilly. “It would be quite the show~!”
“Oh fuck you! I want an explanation as to WHAT THE HELL IS ALL THIS!?”
He chuckled as he gestured to the stands that surrounded us. “Don’t you get it yet? This is your mind! Your inner realm! YOUR VERY SOUL!”
I stared at him in slight shock. “What are you talking about? This is a dream! Nothing More!”
He laughed and my blood curdled. “Oh, it definitely is. Tell me, have you had any dreams as lucid as this one?” I glared at him as I tried to come up with an answer only for him to laugh. “That’s what I thought! YOU HAVEN’T!!”
I shouted at him as I felt my anger boil. “SHUT UP! NONE OF THIS IS REAL!! YOU ARE NOTHING BUT MY IMAGINATION!!”
He grinned and leaned closer. “You’re just too scared to admit it.” he floated back towards the edge of the arena, “but scared of what? Facing the truth? or Me?”
I aimed both guns at him and was ready to fire. “Like hell I’m scared. You’re not even real! You can’t hurt me, even if I wanted you to!”
His smile slowly fell as his eyes glowed. “We’ll see about that soon enough...” He suddenly shot forwards and stabbed his fingers into my eyes. I screamed as I felt him dig deeper into my skull. “Your mind, is the same as mine. So I’ll be visiting you, again, and again, and again. Until the day you cease to exist.”
I stumbled as I felt the ground give way, revealing a spiderweb of cracks that littered the ground. It gave way and I fell into the searing light once again.
I jolted up from my bed and saw that Amy and Meg were still asleep. I got up and stretched causing a small pop from by back. Damn it... It’s only going to get worse the longer I leave it... Maybe a trip to the spa... nah, suit first, spa later.
I looked out the window and saw that it was just after sunrise. Damn I missed it. I grabbed my weapons and put them in the holsters before I tried to find something to leave a note on. I might as well have just stayed where I was and waited for ten minutes because that’s how long it took for them to wake up. And I couldn’t find any paper anywhere!
Megan yawned and looked over to me. “Good morning James.”
I waved and politely smiled. “Morning.”
She stood up and stretched. “So, do you have any idea where your suit might be?”
I started to scratch my chin and pondered for a moment. Last place I saw it was the library so... “I think we should check the Library first.”
Amy yawned as she sat up in her bed. “Could you two be any louder?” Megan glowed slightly and I laughed. “Just get going... I need to find Dean if he’s in town this time.”
I started out the door with Megan in tow when She looked at me and asked, “Who’s Dean?”
I sighed and rubbed the bridge of my nose. “Amy’s ex-boyfriend. He also turned into a wraith.”
She blinked. “Oh... I hope everything goes okay.”
You have no idea. We continued to walk down the streets of Ponyville until I saw a familiar purple dragon. “Hey Spike!”
Spike turned from the stall he was buying quills from and waved. “Hey James! How’s it going in Appleloosa?”
I shook my hand in the air. “Eh, Same old same old. Just having to deal with the crisis and emergencies caused by the crusaders.” I turned to Megan and grinned. “Meg, meet Spike the dragon. Spike this is my friend Megan.”
Spike grinned and held out a claw. “Name’s Spike!”
Megan was staring at Spike in fascination as she took his claw and shook it. “Wow... A real dragon.”
Spike looked at her pink hair and started to stare. “Woah, Deja vu.”
I blinked a bit. “Really?”
He nodded, “Yeah, you act kinda like Fluttershy.”
Megan leaned back in thought. “Oh, well... I wasn’t really expecting that.”
I leaned down to talk with Spike so he wouldn’t strain his neck. Not that it’s any better for my back! “Hey, you seen Twilight around? I think I left something in the library earlier.”
He shrugged, “She’s in Canterlot talking with the princess, Alex has been taking care of the library.” He shivered. “I’m glad he hasn’t blown it up yet.”
I nodded in understanding. “Agreed. Well, if you find a black box that has a ‘Me’ sized suit in it, come find me.”
He gave a thumbs up, “Okay!”
We left after waving goodbye to Spike, and headed down the road again. We came across the one building I never thought I would hope to find. Sweet Jesus a SPA! And no, that thought isn’t gay .
Megan stopped walking and stared at the entrance. “Um.. James?”
“Yeah?”
She glowed slightly. “D-do you mind if I go to the spa?” I raised a brow and she glowed brighter. “If that’s alright...”
I grinned and laughed. “Nah I don’t mind.” I pulled out ten bits and handed them to her. “That should be more than enough.”
She smiled and did a small curtsy. Didn’t think people still did that... “Thank you.”
I grinned as I put on a fake British accent and bowed. “No problem at all my lady.” She started to chuckle a bit. Which made me chuckle. And then we were both laughing as she leaned on the door and I fell onto the ground. “O-oh my sides!”
We started to calm down and she smiled at me. “Thanks James. I needed that.”
I gave her the biggest grin I could and saluted. “No problem! Just doing what comes natural!” We both laughed a bit and I waved her off. I started down the street and was looking for any sign of a black box.
Now where could it be? I proceeded to trip in a pothole in the road and ate dirt. Damnit.... I should just fly, but then I wouldn’t be able to find that suit...
~Megan’s POV~
I entered the spa and there was a pink pony with a blue mane standing at the counter. “Welcome to Ponyville Spa! My name is Aloe, how may we be of service?”
I looked around at the lobby before answering. “I’ll just get a massage please.” I felt a small twinge in my shoulder. “I’ve been a little tense lately.”
Aloe smiled up at me. “That will be four bits.” Wow. James wasn’t kidding about it being more than enough. “My sister Lotus is working on a different client at the moment, so if you’ll please follow me we’ll get a table ready for you.”
I smiled and followed her to a large room with four massage tables. There was a white unicorn and a yellow pegasus already there. A pony with the opposite color scheme was giving a massage the pus and a larger pony was filing away on the unicorn’s horn. The unicorn had a mud mask on with cucumbers on her eyes.
Aloe motioned for me to take the one next to a yellow pegasus and I took off my shirt and bra before laying down. The table was a little short, but I never was that tall to begin with. Aloe came back in with some lotion and started applying it on my back. I sighed as her hoofs started working out the knots in my shoulder.
The pegasus eeped the moment I made a sound and looked over after hiding in her long pink mane. “Oh... um, hello...” She seems kinda shy...
“Hmm?” The Unicorn looked over after lifting a cucumber off her face. “Oh, hello! We didn’t notice you come in.” She turned to the pegasus, “Are you alright dear?”
The pegasus nodded and hid behind her mane.
I glowed slightly. “Sorry if I scared you... I’m Megan.”
The mare started to look down. “Um... I- I’m Fluttershy...”
I smiled kindly. “I’m sorry, I couldn’t quite hear that.”
The mare blushed slightly. “I’m Fluttershy.” Oh, so this is Fluttershy.
I smiled at her as I looked between her mane and my equally pink hair. So this is what Spike ment by Deja vu . “It’s nice to meet you Fluttershy.”
The unicorn gasped dramatically, “Oh where are my manners, My name is Rarity. It is a pleasure to meet you Megan.”
I glowed faintly and looked at my hands, “...Likewise...” I spent the next couple of hours at the spa and my massage was done before I knew it. Rarity and Fluttershy were wonderful ponies to talk to. I learned that Fluttershy was the local animal caretaker and Rarity was a tailor. I think I’ll come back and visit Fluttershy some time.
I left the spa feeling relieved when I heard shouting. “QUIT BITING MY LEG! TAKE THE HEAD! TAKE IT!!” I ran to the noise for a while and I could hear James yelling. “CALL OFF THE MUTT! CALL OFF THE MUTT!!” I turned the corner and say him on the ground and a woman pulling back on a really big wolf.
~James POV (five minutes earlier)~
I was walking down the streets and sighed. “Six. Fucking. Hours of talking to ponies and asking about my suit and not ONE had even seen a glimpse of it.” I turned the corner and stopped when I saw a bag sitting in the middle of the road. Uh.... what?
I walked over to the bag and looked at it. The smell coming off of it was rancid as all hell and there was a glob of... something bloody, laying on the ground next to it. That’s disgusting...
I looked in the bag and... oh fucking god... are those severed heads?! I heard growling from behind me and slowly looked over my shoulder. There was a rather large wolf behind me and it looked hungry. Oh god damnit... not again.
Looking at the wolf brought back memories of my last encounter with a wolf. Went after my jugular not two seconds after it saw me.
I started to slowly back away only to bump into the bag. “Easy boy, easy...” The wolf charged and started biting my leg. I shouted in pain and tried shaking him off. “Let go damn it!”
The wolf started shaking his head and tore into my leg some more. I reached around for something to smack the wolf with but the only thing in reach was the bag o’ heads. Oh this is going to be gross. I grabbed a head from the bag and started waving it at the wolf. “QUIT BITING MY LEG! TAKE THE HEAD! TAKE IT!!”
Sarah jumped down from a roof about then and I realized that the wolf was Feral. Oh that figures... “CALL OFF THE MUTT! CALL OFF THE MUTT!!”
Sarah ran over and grabbed Feral by the waist. “Get off him Feral!” she smacked him lightly on the nose. “Bad wolf.” She turned to me. “You alright James?”
I was starting to pull myself up when I saw Megan running up to my. “OH MY GOSH! Are you alright!?”
I turned to her and suppressed a groan from the pain in my leg. “Don’t worry Meg, I’m fine.” I stood and leaned on my good leg. “I’ve had worse. Man that wolf has some bite to it’s bark.” God did I just say that?... that joke was awful.
Sarah just stared at me. “What did you expect from a wolf bigger than most people?”
“I expected him to go for my throat. That’s what happened last time...” I felt a small shudder run up my spine. That other one was bigger than Feral... by about three inches.
She shrugged her shoulders. “Sucks to be you.”
I laughed at the statement. If I had a dollar... “Well when you’re as unlucky as I am that’s kind of a given.”
I was a little shocked at what she said next, but I hid it the best I could. “What’s the most unlucky thing to have happened to you?”
My smile faltered. How many times have I been asked this?... And how many times have I said THIS SAME! DAMN!! ANSWER!! I frowned slightly as I dwelled on the memory “Losing both my parents.”
That would be it. Those moments. Those two moment in history that started the longest chain of insufferable assholes, tear-filled nights, and psychological pain I’ve ever endured.
She seemed lost in thought for a moment. “Well, better than torture and rape for most of your life. At least you have a reason to be sad or angry, one that isn’t fucking relationship issues.”
I blanked for a second before chuckling and shaking my head. Good god! That was the best dis on Amy I’ve ever heard! And she does have a point. That would suck all kinds of balls. “Yeah, I guess you gotta point there.”
Sarah started staring at me with this really creepy grin. “Hehe, yeah, I do don’t I? I really fucking do...”
I looked at her confused. What is she... My face paled as I realized what I had done. “Oh... shit you weren’t joking. Fuck me, I’m sorry.”
“Oh no.” She leaned close to my face and smiled. “it’s perfectly fine. It’s not like the scars and the missing arm were any hints. An honest fucking mistake, I’m sure.”
I looked between her and Feral, my nerves shot from the panic that was starting to creep up my spine. “I honestly thought that you got those from training him... I’ve seen some other trainers and they had twice as many scars.” It’s true, I met a guy who trained wolves that had so many scars that they all merged into one gigantic super-scar. Thing was fucking epic, but that’s not exactly important right now.
She narrowed her eyes at me. “Think about it, I can’t have been in Equestria for that long, and Feral is an Equestrian breed of wolf. Even if the scars were from that, they would still be healing.” I stared at her in fear as her cheeks were starting to actually split from how wide her grin was getting.
Then what she said sank into my head and I deadpanned. “God, I’m an idiot.”
Started pulling on my sleeve getting some distance between me and Sarah. “I-I’m sorry but we need to go. Right James? You still need to pick something up from the library?”
I tried to respond but Sarah seemed to warp in front of where we were going. Her cheeks were split half way, revealing a maw of sharpened metal teeth.
“Oh don’t go~” She started walking up to us. “I wanted to talk some more~” Her eyes started to glow blood red before her body was covered in static and shifted into... Oh god, IT’S HIM!! “James~”
(OST)
I fell back onto the ground. “No.... no.. no...nonono!” I slid myself backwards away from him as fast as I could with one leg. “S-stay away from me! Y-you’re just a figment of my imagination! That’s all!” How is this even POSSIBLE!?
Megan was backing away in fear as she stared at me and Sarah. “J-James?”
“I told you~” In an instant he leaned down and got within inches of my face. “I’m very real, James~ Very, very real~”
I screamed in terror as this nightmare brought to life laughed right in my face. “I told you James~” I got onto my knees and started to crawl away only for him to stomp on my back. “I am extremely real~! And I can cause you very real pain~” His body seemed to jolt between Sarah’s and his own like a bad TV. Both had bone chilling grins. The collective maw that their faces formed started to open when Sarah’s seemed to dominate for a moment.
“J-James...”
I looked up at her expecting to be killed at any moment.
“James, you need t-” She cringed as he started to take over again in a flash of static. “To listen to m-me. You have a g-gun, right?” Her face turned back to his for a moment. “Don’t you fucking Dare!”
I continued to look at her in fear before fumbling to grab my gun.
“That thing-” She shifted to him again and he clutched his head. She soon reappeared and looked at my gun. “t-that thing can turn into d-different weapons. R-right?” I shakily nodded. “G-good," Her face changed back to his for a moment, "got a sh-shotgun?”
My throat was dry as I looked down at my gun. “S-Scatter shot.” The gun formed into a cobalt sawn off and I stared back at her only to find him looking at me angrily.
“Don’t even try it James! If you do, I will make your entire existence a living hell!”
The face switched back to Sarah for a second. “S-shoot me-” Her face swapped between his and hers for a second. “Shoot me in the head... The trauma s-should rattle her enough to- to let me get control b-back.” Her?
I looked up at her. “W-wah?”
He formed again. “THIS IS YOUR LAST WARNING JAMES! DON’T YOU DARE!”
She glared at me as they continued switching. “I- I have a f-fucking titanium skull!”
“NO!” My hand was trembling as I looked into those red eyes.
Sarah appeared one last time as she looked at me in pain. “I’ll fucking l-live, shoot!”
I flinched and the recoil made my gun slam into my head as I fired. I blacked out seconds later.
Author's Note
ANOTHER CHAPTER HAS MADE IT OUT OF MY ASS!! HALLELUJAH! or should I say Hallurjah?
Whatever.
Sarah and Feral Belong to FireBlanket. Like and Favorite. Blah Blah Blah......
Friends and Enemies: Act 3
~Megan POV~
I watched James and Sarah fall to the ground. I was sitting back on my knees and crying, hands covering my mouth. W-what just happened?!
The gunshot had attracted some attention and Amy hopped down from a nearby rooftop. She shouted something and started running up to James. She picked him up and looked at me. “What are you doing? I need some help carrying them!”
I flinched and shot up to my feet. I took James from her and she started straining to lift Sarah.
“Good fucking god! How much can someone so small weigh!” Amy was slowly dragging Sarah across the ground. She stopped two feet from where she started and fell down. “Just... fuck!” She laid Sarah down and formed a construct platform under her and began straining to lift her. “Still... easier... than... dragging....”
It took a while, but eventually we managed to get them to a hospital. It took Amy and three of the hospital staff to push Sarah’s gurney and James was placed in a room by one of the unicorn nurses.
We were waiting in the lobby when one of the doctors exited the hall, I jumped up to him as Amy seemed to be lost in thought. “Are they alright?”
He looked at his clipboard and narrowed his gaze. “they’ll be fine, although the woman will have trouble seeing. The shot hit her left eye and completely destroyed it. The most the gentlemen suffered was a mild concussion.”
After a while of sitting in the waiting room Amy perked up suddenly. “You hear that?”
I looked around but didn’t notice anyone there. “Huh?”
She stood up and started walking towards the hall. I ran after her down the hallway, startling a couple of the doctors. She was about to open their room when I grabbed her arm. “Wait! what if they’re still asleep?”
She turned back to me as she opened the door. “Here’s a better question. Are they awake?” she peeked into the room, “Oh, they are an-” She reeled back in shock. “WHAT HAPPENED TO YOUR EYE!?” She really needs to pay more attention.
“What do you mean?” I looked over Amy’s shoulder and saw Sarah feeling for her left eye. James seemed to be zoning out as Amy stared at Sarah. “What the fuck happened to my eye?”
I was glowing slightly as I entered the room proper. Oh dear... this is going to be awkward. “Um, well you had James... err, shoot you, and it may have moved over to the side... slightly...”
She stared at me blankly. “I lost my eye, didn’t I?” I nodded Please don’t be mad please don’t be mad please don’t be mad please don’t be mad! “Well then... Fuck, can’t do anything about that I guess.” Oh thank god...
I looked over and saw James staring at me in slight horror before he quickly turned to Sarah. “I SHOT YOU!?”
She nodded slowly, “Like I didn’t just tell you... Yes, I told you to shoot me to traumatize me a bit and let me get control of my body back. Thank you for that. Cost me a fucking eye though...”
James started to grab the side of his head and looked at the wall. “But... I don’t remember any of that.” He doesn’t? But...
Sarah stared at him. “Well you were kind of panicking like all fuck... Maybe that’s why?”
He shook his head and looked back at us. “Y-yeah... I must have been, hallucinating or something...”
She shrugged, I think she was annoyed about something. “No fucking clue.”
James took a deep breath before letting it out slowly. “All I know, is that it wasn’t you standing there at the time... but... someone else... Or at least that’s what it looked like to me.”
Sarah got up from her bed and started to heading to the door, “Well, that can be figured out later. I don’t feel like spending another birthday in a fucking hospital. I’m leaving, you guys coming with?”
I started helping James up to leave and looked over to Amy who was still in the doorway. “I’ll help get James. Amy, could you tell the receptionist?”
She shrugged and left the room. “Alright, I’ll be right back.” She stopped at the door and looked back. “And this should help with the eye thing. Don’t know if it’ll work though.” She tossed Sarah a small sphere as she left.
Sarah just shrugged and ate it. Nothing really happened afterwards except her turning to talk to James. “Okay, so before anything else, I need to go find Dean and talk to him. He wanted me to warn him anytime that bitch of an alter ego took over. Know where he might be?”
James put his hand to his chin in thought. “He’s probably in the library... I’ll go with you. My suit’s still there.”
She nodded and started to leave, “Let’s go then. And if he’s not there, I’ll just smell him out. I was around him long enough to differentiate his scent by now.” Scent? She’s going to smell him out?
James nodded and looked over at me. “Okay Meg, let’s follow Sarah and grab my suit.”
Suddenly I felt myself get picked up, along with James as Sarah started heading to the window. “I hate hospitals, sooner out the better. Through the window!”
I whipped my head towards her in shock. “W-what!?” She can’t be serious... can she?
“Too late, fuckin’ doing it!” She ran forward and crashed through the window, then fell to the ground. “And now we’re out.” I was shivering as I regained my footing.Please don’t do that again please don’t do that again please don’t do that again.
Amy ran out of the building and looked at us. “What the hell!?”
James pointed at Sarah as I was still in a small state of shock. “She did it.”
Sarah looked down at us, “What? It was faster and less possibly-murder-filled than walking through the hospital.” M-m-murder filled!?
Amy just stared at us before facepalming. “Whatever... James, I’ll just meet you and Megan at Sugarcube corner.”
James waved as she left. “Alright.”
Sarah looked off towards town “Alright, well, I’m tired of walking around so,” She picked us up again, My face was pressed almost right into James’ and we started to glow. “I’m running us to the Library! Any complaints before we head off?”
We looked up at her and James spoke up. “Uh... Could you not put us in such a tight grip? It’s getting a bit... awkward down here.”
“Oh? How so?” She looked down and just stared at us. “Oh, well... It’s either that, or you’re near my waist, and I never wear underwear. And keep in mind this is a dress, so it’ll be moving around quite a bit.” I grimaced slightly at the thought. EWWEWWEWWEWWEWWEWWEWWEWW!!
James started glowing even brighter. “Uh... nevermind this is alright, right Meg?”I nodded furiously and accidentally headbutted James. “T-that’s two for two. Let’s get to the library!”
“Okay!” She took off like a bullet and I started screaming, “Not going too fast am I?” She looked down at us. “Oh, well it doesn’t matter.” She stopped suddenly, right in front of the Library, “Because we’re here!”
I was hugging onto James as we tried to get our footing from the disorienting trip. “P-p-please d-don’t do th-that again...”
“No promises. Now...” She walked forward and threw the Library door open, “Hey Dean, if you’re here, that hungry bitch personality came back again! Also, I may or may not have a left eye anymore!”
A voice came from behind the door, “And I appear to have suddenly turned two dimensional.” Um...... wha?
James fell over and I landed on top of him. He called from the ground as I muttered a quick apology. “Hey Alex.”
“Five seconds.” The voice mumbled, “Paper Doll Man.” The next thing I knew was that there was a paper thin man slipping out from behind the door. Did I hit my head on James’ harder than I thought?
Sarah stared at him with a blank expression before simply saying, “That’s physically impossible.You’re physically impossible.”
I was staring at Alex in shock. He’s flat.... but... Sarah’s right, how is that possible? “He’s Alex. Nothing wrong here. Have you seen my suit? It’s in a black box.”
Alex wobbled a bit as he blew into his thumb, causing his body to fill out again. He’s just like a cartoon! He looked at James, “Nope... Well actually, I think Dean might know. But he’s off doing something or other.”
James sighed and sagged forward. “Oooooooof course.” Just how long has it been missing?
Alex looked at me before bowing, “Hello madam.” Oh my....
I shuffled my foot as I introduced myself. “Oh, um... Hello.”
Alex looked at me for a second before tilting his head, “Huh... Pink hair? Fits ye quite well.”
I glowed slightly brighter and started trying to hide more of myself behind James. “Um... Thank you... I get it from my mom...”
Sarah started yelling at us, interrupting any conversation. “OI, COCKFACES! What is more urgent, the pink fucking hair, or my psychotic episode and complete loss of an eye!?”
James pointed at me. “She has a point.” He turned back to me with an apologetic look. “No offence.” None taken... we were getting side tracked.
Alex blinked, “Ye lost an eye? Oh... Yeah ye did. Damn.”
Sarah was looking rather angry at the moment. “I would think the fact that I shouted it, and that it is pretty fucking obvious that it’s not there would have tipped you off. But, I forgot, pink fucking hair is more astonishing!”
I shrunk behind James to avoid her gaze. “S-sorry...” Please don’t kill me....
Alex sighed, “Ye got nothing to be sorry for lass, Sarah’s just not use to human contact and is dealing with multiple psychological issues that can drive anyone of us insane if we suddenly got them.” He shrugged, “Plus her skeleton about ninety percent titanium nickel alloy which is the hardest metal known to man an-” He blinked a couple times. “Oh fuck me I did it again.”
I stared at him and Sarah for a bit. Oh my... her skeleton is metal!? It simply can’t be natural... so who would do something like that?
Sarah’s eye twitched as she glared at him and held up a finger, “First off, don’t fucking talk about me like I’m not right fucking in front of you. Second, I got over the fucking human interaction problem at the fucking facility, I just don’t have much outside knowledge. Third, I have one psychological issue that is screaming at me to murder every single fucking thing I see, including you, you stupid piece of fuck! ”
He shrunk back, “Sorry, sorry!”
She punched the wall and left a large hole in it. After taking a few deep breaths, Sarah spat at him, “I don’t fucking care right now. Do you know where Dean is, or not?”
“He said he’s in the park....”
Sarah turned around and stormed out of the house, “Thank you.” As she left the library and I looked over to James.
“She’s....”
He looked over. “Frightening, I know. But she has this charm you get used to... as much as you can get used to it.” It’s the swearing that gets me... it’s just plain rude.
Alex shook his head and walked over to the bookcase, sorting some books. “Anyways....”
James smiled and started to ignore the sudden lack of fear inducing sources of rage. “So how have you been?” How is he being so calm?
“Eh.” Alex shrugged, “Bored.”
I looked at the books and started twiddling with my braid. “Um... you wouldn’t happen to have any books on local flora... do you?”
He turned and smiled, “Yeah...” He waved his hand and a book came out of the wall covered in a green glow. “They have very little information though... Half the book just says ‘Stay away!’” I snatched the book from his magic and started reading eagerly.
I was so lost in the book that I didn’t notice James and Alex were staring at me until I looked up. “Oh.... um....” I started trying to hide behind the book. “It’s... a very interesting book.”
James chuckled. “I would hope so.”
Alex looked at me, “Glad to hear.” I grinned sheepishly, and I think I heard a sheep...
James started to look around. “DId you guys hear that?”
Alex chuckled, “That happens sometimes. And whatever ye do, don’t start singing.”
I looked over and pouted somewhat. “Darn... I was wanting to sing for some reason to.”
“The whole planet, as far as I know, is enchanted. So if anyone starts a song, or poem then the person sings or says it completely. With music to.”
I wonder... “Does humming count?”
He looked at me, “Not that I know... Although that has led to singing overtime.”
I grinned and started humming the Song of Storms. James looked somewhat surprised.
Alex sighed, “That’s fine.”
James was chuckling. “You know that song?”
I stopped and laughed nervously. “Yeah... I liked to play some of the more classic games in my free time.”
James laughed and looked out the window. “Good thing I’m not the one singing that tune. I probably would get struck by lightning on a clear day.” Um.... wha?
“That is possible.” I looked at Alex, “It’s called ‘A bolt from the blue.’ Quite rare, but so is ball lightning.”
James blinked a couple times. “Huh... I guess you can learn something new everyday.” He grinned. “And this one was rather...” Don’t say it. “Shocking.” He said it.
I grimaced some and looked at James. “Please don’t make anymore puns.”
James pouted some. “No one appreciates my genius....”
“... I was stabbed through my legs for making a pun once. It was worth it.” James stood up and gave Alex a high five.
James grinned and looked over at me. “Anyways... You mentioned something about you getting your hair from your mom?”
I glowed some and started twiddling my braid. “My mom’s side of the family always had strange hair color... Believe it or not, my grandma had light green hair.” I giggled some at the memory. “It’s a good thing it still turned gray like normal hair.”
Alex looked at me closely before asking, “Just a question... What’s your mothers name?”
I blinked some and cocked my head to the side. “Um... Rebecca, why?”
He blinked and muttered something to himself, I think I heard him repeating the name. He stopped and shrugged, “Hmm.... Strange.”
I looked at him in confusion. Why did he want to know my mom’s name? Sure she got weird looks from it being purple, but I didn't think she was popular from it... I shook the stray thought from my head. Probably nothing.
James jumped some when the door slammed open. Amy was standing there with a cookie in her mouth. “What happened to meeting at the bakery?”
James shrugged, “Got sidetracked?” He grinned sheepishly as Amy bore holes in him with her glare.
She suddenly looked at Alex. “You got any spells to help him stay on task?”
He shrugged, “Not really... I could find one, but god knows what would happen.” He shivered. “Unicorn magic and Mage magic don’t mix at all.” I shuddered some when he mentioned magic. Don’t dwell on the memory... just hope that nothing bad happens.
James was looking at him in slight worry. “Uh... you’re not actually planning on using any magic on me... are you?”
He sighed, “I might... Might not. Depends if I can find a book with a spell like that.” He looked at the table and sighed, “I swear the books here are enchanted to appear in times of need.”
I blinked a couple times as I watched him grab the book and read. I looked down at the book in my hands and continued reading, the page depicted a blue flower that would actually prank you if it came in contact. Sounds silly...but this is a world of talking ponies.
Alex sighed, “Alright... ‘Put to work spell’ might work....” He sighed and closed his eyes, drawing power from the air. Don’t screw up, please don’t screw up. The spell flew forwards and was headed straight for James. The spell was working and James was closing his eyes, waiting for the spell to hit him.
Until it started to curve towards me and slammed into Amy. Oh no... not again!
Amy suddenly stood stock still and ran out of the library. “I need to head to Sugarcube Corner!”
James opened one eye and looked around. “Um.... what just happened?”
Alex looked at me, “Well... I’m confused.”
I looked at the door then James. “I think she’s headed for the bakery.”
James stood and made his way to the door. “I’m going to make sure that there’s a town.” He ran out the door and started to chase Amy.
I stared for a second before sighing. I’ve hardly known them for more than a day and they seem more like family than I care to admit. “I’m going to follow them too. Hope to see you again Alex.” I waved goodbye as I headed out the door. The face he made as he waved wordlessly was showing just how confused he was.
I couldn’t help but giggle as I walked into the town.
Author's Note
I finally posted another Chapter! If you're reading the other stories then you probably have a good Idea where this is headed.
Alex belongs to Jimmy the Grape
Friends and Enemies: Act 4
~James POV~
I ran after Amy as she headed down the streets for the bakery. I followed her for hours until I caught up. She was about to turn a corner when I grabbed onto her shirt and started to dig my feet into the ground. She kept going at a noticeably slower pace as I made an increasingly deep trench. “Amy..... Slow..... Down.....”
She looked back at me with this glazed over look on her face. “But I need to be on schedule.” I stared at her in shocked confusion. Just what the fuck did that spell DO!? Is she so adamant that she doesn’t realize Sugarcube corner is CLOSED!? AND ON THE OTHER SIDE OF TOWN!!
Megan ran up and looked at me. “Oh dear....” I nodded my head to the woman dragging me and Megan went to push on her chest. The moment that she came in contact, Amy stopped walking.
She blinked a couple times before shaking her head. “James, what the hell just happened?”
He shrugged and climbed out of the hole in the street. “Alex cast a spell, it redirected into you, and you ran out of the library.”
She looked at me confused we started to walk around the corner. “Really? Huh....”
“Yeah really, and I’ve been trying to get you to stop walking for the past two hours.” We all stopped in our tracks when we could hear someone calling out to us. “James! Amy!... I forgot your name! I got someone I want you all to meet!”
I looked over and did a double take. I thought I saw Sarah and... oh god... “Oh, god THERE’S TWO OF THEM!!” I AM SO FUCKING DOOMED RIGHT NOW!! TWO SARAHS?! I’M GOING TO FUCKING DIE!! AGAIN!!
I felt an overwhelming pressure on the back of my head and I faceplanted into the ground. “Stop being such an ass. I don’t care if she slightly traumatized you, you’re being rude.” FUCK YOU AMY!! I WANT TO FUCKING LIVE AS MUCH AS A WRAITH CAN!!!
I heard Sarah start talking “Besides, she’s my sister. So there are not two of me, just me and my twin.” Please don’t let the other one’s personality be a carbon copy...
I heard Megan sigh as I started to pry my head from the ground making absolutely no progress. “This place is getting so weird... I wish I was back home...” You’re telling me, I’ve got my head stuck in the dirt!
“Yep, well, you’re fucking dead now. Too late.” Geez Sarah, be a bigger insensitive bitch why don’t you? AND CAN I GET SOME HELP DOWN HERE!?
Megan sighed again. “I know... but I still miss my family.” In an instant my mental triade screeched to a halt. ...Don’t we all...
I started to make some progress with my head to see Amy’s shadow cross the ground in front of me. “You get used to it... I was elated and somewhat hurt when I found out James became a wraith.”
I saw Sarah’s shadow bob slightly. I think it was her’s anyways. “And I never had family until now, and she had died already without me knowing it, so it wasn’t too sad for me. You’ll get over it.”
I had managed to get my head mostly free when I felt someone grab my arm. I looked over to see Megan smiling at Sarah as she helped me to my feet. “Thanks.”
I looked over to Sarah and saw that she and her sister had stopped to talk to us. I blinked a couple times at her sister. Holy shit... She had an identical outfit as Sarah, and had no scars littering her body. I’ll be able to tell them apart.
“Anyway, yeah, this is my sister Mary” Sarah motioned to her sister, “She was trapped in purgatory while a bit of her soul stayed with me and turned into that split personality of mine that almost made me kill you, James. Say hello.” …...............wat...................
Mary waved a hand somewhat shyly, “Hello...” Wat...... I thought she was Sarah’s sister. How is she being so shy? I thought they were related.
Megan smiled and walked up to Mary. “Um... Hi, my name’s Megan. It’s nice to meet you.”
Mary shuffled her feet and moved back a bit, “Um, yeah, nice to meet you...”
I realized I was staring at them and quickly blinked my self into reality. “Oh... so that’s what happened. I wasn’t really sure with all the bits and pieces I kept getting. That and the state of slight trauma and shock wasn’t helping any.” It seriously doesn’t... I may need to see a psychiatrist if I keep seeing that asshole....
Sarah just shrugged and kept talking. “Sucks. Anyway, you guys know where Michael is, if you’ve seen him? There was a woman with him that I wanted to apologize to, I kind of snapped at her. Not totally my fault, I was kind of losing my mind, but I’m trying to be nicer to people, so I feel I should say something.”
I shook my head, and strangely so did Amy and Megan. Thankfully only I spoke. “Nope.” At least we didn’t all talk at the same time... That would have been creepy as all fuck.
“Damn. Well, I might as well sniff Michael out, that would probably work.” She started walking away towards the library with Mary following close behind, “See you around!” It’s good to see she’s still a bit of a bitch without trying to murder me. The sniffing thing is a little weird but I’ve seen weirder...
Amy and I started to wave. “Bye!”
“Later!”
Megan did this small bow again. Seriously need to ask her about that. “Um... Goodbye...”
I started to lead the others back to the inn and Amy started to veer to the side. I quickly grabbed her shirt and turned her towards the right direction. Everything’s back to the way it should be... well, almost everything.
Megan looked at Amy worriedly “Are you going to be alright?”
Amy grinned, “Of course I am!” She tried to laugh but was cut short by a yawn. “I’m pretty tired right now though.”
I walked to the Inn’s doorway and opened it for them. “Then maybe it’s a good Idea to call it a day. I have no idea what’s going on with that spell Alex casted or why it would redirect like it did, but maybe all you need is some bed rest?” I looked over at Megan for some support but she seemed just as confused as I was.
Amy yawned and passed me. “Yeah, maybe you’re right... I’m calling it a day. Night.”
“Night.” She shuffled up the stairs and I could hear to door upstairs open and slam shut. “Wow, she must be more exhausted than I thought.”
Maybe I’ll join her.... Megan and I walked up stairs and got to the room to see Amy sprawled across one of the beds. I laid down on one and stared at the ceiling for a while before sighing. This isn’t working.
I glanced over at the dresser and saw a card deck. I still wonder if that was left by the last person to use this room or if the Inn provides poker lessons. I looked up and Meg who was sitting on the other bed. “Hey, Meg?”
She was slightly spooked and shut her book. “Oh.... um, yes?”
I got up and picked up the deck. “You know any good card games?”
I stared at my hand for the twentieth time that night. This just shouldn’t be possible.
I took a quick glance at Megan as she calmly looked at her hand. Just what hand does she have?
I nervously looked at mine, it was pretty good, but she could still beat it if she has the right cards. The chances of that though are slim... but...
She continued to look at her hand in serene calm. Just why is she being so CALM!? I mean does she have.... there’s no way she could....Screw it I’m showing my cards now!
I laid my hand down and grinned. “HA! Beat that!”
She started to glow slightly. “Oh... um... I’m sorry, but I think I won again James.... sorry.” She lowered her hand to reveal a quartet of Aces. My brain started to shut down as I looked at her hand. Just...............................WAT!
I threw up my hands. “Okay, we’re done playing poker.” She nodded and we both silently agreed to head to bed and sleep. It would have been nice if being in a different town would improve my luck at poker at least a little!
I awoke with a yawn and looked out the window. Just before sunrise. Again. I sighed and got out of bed and stretched. Braeburn’s rubbing off on me. I looked at the beds and saw that Megan and Amy were still asleep, so I left a note and went outside.
Looking to the sun as it rose I breathed in the morning air. “I’ll never get tired of that. Releasing first restriction, Solar Winds.” Golden flames engulfed me and the wings took form. They were less detailed at the moment but could still be used to lift off the ground. I launched myself into the air and saw some clouds hanging low.
A thought about my wings came to mind as I recalled some of the pegasi laying on clouds. Time to test something... For science of course. I hovered over a cloud and was about to make contact when I stopped. Just to be safe though... I formed a platform under the cloud and closed my wings.
I landed on the cloud and bounced some before I came to rest on what could only be described as the most fucking awesome pillow in the history of the universe. Oooooooooooooooh sweet Jesus this thing is soft.
The sun started to hit my face and warmed the area around me. I looked at my spread wings and saw the details from my earlier flights slowly paint themselves onto each feather. Folding my wings, I leaned back on the cloud and was content to let the giant puffball of vapor float around lazily.
Only for my morning relaxation to be cut short when the cloud I was on broke apart. Shit.
I fell a ways before spreading my wings and righting myself. “Woah! Hey, watch it!” I looked at the pegasus who broke my cloud and took note of her rainbow mane n’ tail.
She looked back and yelled as she continued bucking the clouds into nothing. “Hey buddy! I’m just doing my job! What are you doing up here anyways!”
I glared and flew up to her face some. “Going for a morning flight, and breathing in some fresh air. I was taking a break to look at the sunrise when you bucked my seat from under my ass!”
She blinked and laughed. “That all? Well then, I’m sorry about taking your cloud, but I need to clear the skies for today. Schedule says it’s supposed to be sunny today.”
I leaned back and sighed. “Alright then... but before I go, care to tell me your name?”
She puffed out her chest and smirked. “Rainbow Dash, Fastest flyer in all Equestria!” Well someone has an ego...
“James, It’s been a pleasure.” I flew down to the ground and my wings disappeared in a flash. I started walking down the street and sighed. Wonder what I can do here....
I soon entered the town square and stopped to look at the statue.
or rather, the person ON the statue.
I looked at him as Michael slept soundly on the statue of Celestia. Don’t ask..... just don’t. It would probably be the funniest thing in history... but I just don't have time for that now... I went with my brain’s suggestion and left the area. Looking up at the sky again, I couldn’t help but grin. Maybe an endurance flight will help pass the time. I brought my wings back into existence and took off.
I spent the next couple of hours flying around, and I even fixed the issue with light getting refracted everywhere I went before I bumped into Rainbow again. Huh.... the odds. “Ohp. Sorry bout that.”
She righted herself and waved it off. “Nah, It’s cool. Just watch where you’re going next time.” I laughed and we kept chatting for a while. I lost track of time as we flew around town and just had fun chatting.
I was about to ask if she had any friends here in Ponyville when I saw that Amy was running around town like crazy. “I’ll see ya later Dash, I think I see my sister down there...”
“Alright, See ya James!” She flew off and started to have a nap above the library. ON. A. CLOUD! Hypocrite...
I saw Amy headed to Sugarcube Corner and landed down the street making my wings vanish. I could hear some commotion coming from inside. Alright let’s see what’s going on...
Friends and Enemies: Act 5
I walked into the building and looked around. “Hey, has anyone se-” I froze in place as I looked over at one of the tables. Sitting there in front of me, was Michael, Amy, and some girl I hadn’t met yet. I grinned internally as I took note at how he wouldn’t know what’s going on. Time to fuck with Michael in a way that explains everything... “Wow... Alex’s spell worked on the wrong target.”
Amy’s head then fell forward and splattered the cupcake. I couldn’t help but fall to the ground in uncontrollable laughter. OH GOD! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! “I need a freaking camera!”
The girl looked at me confused. “Wait... Who are you?”
I slowly calmed my laughs and steadied my aching sides. “Oh... that’s way too funny.” I stood and brushed off my pants. “Anyways, to answer your question. I’m James Hindenburg. Please, just call me James.”
The next thing I knew she warped in front of me in a flurry of leaves. The fuck?! “I’m Paige! Paige Beckett!”
I leaned back from the surprise “I swear I’ve seen that before...” I quickly brought my train of thought back to the present and gave a small smile. “Well. It’s nice to meet you Paige.” I looked over to Michael and grinned. “Sup, Michael.”
He waved. “Not much... I just had to deal with a girl that can turn into leaves and a vampire.” What.... How come he gets the cool stuff! And I didn't even get the reaction I wanted!!
“Darn, you get all the cool stuff. I just got my sister and a girl with pink hair.” I looked over at Amy and grinned. “Speaking of which...” I walked over and sat next to Amy. “Meet my sister.”
Michael nodded, “If only she was awake.”
Amy’s head suddenly shot up and looked around wide eyed. “I’M AWAKE!” She noticed we were all looking at her and glowed softly. “...That didn’t happen....”
I snickered at her embarrassment. “You wish.” She smacked me upside the head, “Ow.”
Paige grinned, “Welcome back to the world of the living.” She paused and blinked, “Oh... Wait.” LOLOLOLOL
Amy laughed tiredly as she looked at me. “Now I see why you can’t get mad at all those kids in Appleloosa. They’re too freaking adorable.”
Paige blinked, “Appleloosa? Strange name... Almost as bad as Dragonspyre.”
I nodded in confermation. “Yep, This place is littered by pony and apple puns.”’
Michael simply looked at me, “Hollow Shades. It’s a town.”
My eye twitched in barely contained rage. “I spend weeks here and only hear of stupidly names towns and such, while you find the one freaking town that has a normal name.”
He shrugged, “Not really found, just told to go by Death.” My head quickly slammed into the table. DEATH, I BLAME YOU!!!!!!!!!!!
It’s not like you asked politely James.
I grumbled mentally as Death laughed in the back of my mind for a couple seconds before disconnecting.
I could hear Amy sigh. “He always makes a big deal about small stuff. Name’s Amy.”
“Michael... The girl’s Paige”
“Hello!”
There was a pause before Amy said, “Say... you like light tricks?”
I turned just enough so I could glower at her. “Don’t. I’m tired from the CMC. Please let me rest.” While the reason’s not exactly true....... I’m still tired.
Paige shrugged, “Not that much, they are cool but I have a pet that I play with.”
I rolled my head back to where it was and could hear Amy continue. “Well... didn’t expect to hear that.”
Paige gasped, “Oh god, I haven’t let him out yet!” I could hear her rummage through something followed by a thud. “Hey Max.”
I could feel something poke my head as Amy was doing something else. “Huh...”
Paige said something that sounded like owing me money.
I looked up at them as they stared at me. “Who owes me money?” Something poked me in the eye and I saw a green elephant poking me with a sword. “Oh... dang, no money. Just a mini elephant.” I rested my head back on the table. “It’s amazing how this place has made me immune to weird crap now...” So many crusades...... so little time.........
Amy blankly stared at me. “You caused just as much when you were alive.” Like you were so innocent.....
Paige looked at us, “I’ve met talking dogs, owls, crocodiles, salamanders, cats, rats, ghosts, undead ghouls, fish, lobsters, dragon people, unicorns, pigs, cows, goats, and dinosaurs. I beat you all in terms of strange.” Wow...... that’s quite a list.
I chuckled. “Guess I’ll just settle for third then. You and Alex got me beat.”
Paige looked at me, “I met Alex... for a minute. Speaking of which you said he can cast spells?”
“Yep.” I lifted my head off the table and popped it. “I know for a fact he can. No details.” I am not explaining that moment to anyone. EVER.
Amy grinned. “Aww, come on James! Don’t yo-” I slammed my hand across her mouth before any major details were revealed.
“No. Details.” EVER!
Michael looked between us in confusion, “Um...?”
I quickly waved him off. “Don’t worry about it. Just make note to never let him read his spellbook on a train. Ever.” It is for your own safety.
Paige grinned and pulled out a small book chained to her side, “Like this?”
I flinched slightly before grinning nervously at the book. “Yeah... just like that... but bigger.” Oh god please don’t be like Alex’s, PLEASE don’t!
She put it back and tilted her head, “What’s his last name?”
I tapped my chin and thought back to when Alex introduced himself. “I think it’s... Harris.” I got out of the seat and stretched, feeling my back pop in a couple places. “But that’s not really important right now. I got to go find my friend Megan. Later.”
Paige sighed but waved him off, “Seeya!”
I walked to the door and stopped for a moment. “Also...” A small ball of light flew off my finger and landed in front of her, forming into a mini Celestia. “A parting gift.” Without another word I left the building.
I could hear Amy as I left the building. “Show off.” I couldn’t help but wear a shit eating grin as I formed some wings and took off. That I am Amy.... That I am.....
I flew around and noticed Megan standing near the library. I swooped down and landed near her, causing my wings to dissipate quietly. “Hey Meg!”
She looked over to me and sighed in relief. “OH thank goodness. James have you seen Amy anywhere? I haven’t been able to find her after she left the Inn like her head was on fire.”
I grinned and pointed behind me. “She’s at Sugarcube corner.” I looked up and grinned as I pointed behind me. “If you need me, I’ll be there after a bit. Later!”
She looked at me in confusion until I took off down the road. I made a quick pass by some of the local shops and even passed by Sugarcube Corner as I ran at high speeds. A hairpin turn and a quick summoning of my wings later, I was headed as high as I could over one of the local fields. let’s see how fast I can go....
(Megan POV)
James basted down the road and was off faster than I could follow. “Wait!” In no time he was a speck in the distance. Oh...... I wanted to talk to him..... I looked up and sighed. At least I know where Amy is now.
I walked down the street and quickly arrived at the bakery. I stopped before entering when I heard someone say, “Morganthe made sure I didn’t kill him.” Who’s Morganthe?
I quickly walked in to see Amy staring at the wall behind two people. I ran up to her and looked at her in worry. “Amy, are you alright?” I waved a hand in front of her face, but Amy didn’t move. “Oh dear.”
“Hi!”
I jumped in panic and turned to see a young girl looking at me. “Oh... um, hello.”
She blinked before giving me a small smile, “Oh... Sorry. My name’s Paige. What’s your’s?”
I started fiddling with my braid and looked at the table nervously. “It’s Megan... It’s nice to meet you.”
“Same.” Paige tilted on her feet, “So... Whatcha doing?”
I looked at Amy for a moment. “I was looking for James. I can’t seem to find him anywhere after he ran out of the library.”
Paige grinned, “I can find him...” She closed her eyes and concentrated on something before a bunch of leaves formed into James, and crashed into a wall.
I winced as James fell to the ground and clutched his face. “MY NOSE! RIGHT IN THE FREAKING NOSE!!”
Paige paled, “Sorry! Um...” She waved her hand and a green aura surrounded his face, healing the damage.
James rubbed his nose and scrunched it a couple times before smiling. “Thank you, and you’re forgiven.” He looked over to me and smiled. “Oh, hey Meg! I was wondering where you were.”
I was about to check on him, when I saw something sticking out of his back. “Um... James?”
He looked over to me with that smile of his. “Yeah?”
I leaned around him and looked at his back. “Why do you have wings?”
He blinked a couple times before grinning. “Oh these?” He stood and spread the wings to their full span. “Just a trick I came up with a couple days ago. They work too.” The wings folded down onto his back and he grabbed a chair from a nearby table and sat in it backwards.
Paige looked at the wings before scrunching her face as white feathered wings popped out her back. I couldn’t help but stare at both sets as they seemed to gleam in the light. Oh my... They’re so... so... I couldn’t find the right word.
I heard a thump and saw that Michael fell over in shock and was knocked out in an instant. Oh dear......
James blinked a couple times before smiling. “Cool. I just got a flying buddy who isn’t a pegasus.”
Paige grinned, “Nice to know I’m not the only one.” She looked over and blinked, “Um... I think we broke him.”
I looked over at Michael as he laid on the ground. “Oh my...” I gently grabbed his arm and started to sit him upright in the chair. “I hope he’s okay...”
James smiled. “It’s not the first time I’ve seen something weird happen and make him pass out.”
Paige blinked in confusion, “Huh... Care to share?”
He shrugged. “Yeah... He started foaming at the mouth at the sight of some of the stuff that happened in Canterlot. It was rather amusing.”
Amy smiled. “I think I saw that...”
Paige sighed, “Great...”
Amy’s smile faltered a bit. “So... you said something after you told me about... what’s his name again?”
She frowned, “Malistaire.”
Amy shivered a little and started to seem nervous. “Yeah... him...”
Paige nodded, “Yeah... I said that Morganthe made sure he was kept alive.”
“Do you... do you think they’re... anywhere near here?”
She shrugged, “I don’t know about Malistaire, he could be anywhere. However Morganthe is wandering The Spiral, last I remember she was planning on rewriting the multiverse to her image.”
James frowned slightly. “That sounds... rather sadistic.”
She nodded, “Yeah... She’s called the Umbra Queen. She drowned an entire world because they declined giving her a spell. Cursed a kingdom because they wronged her, and destroyed a world for fun.”
I pressed my hand against my mouth to suppress a gasp. “That... that’s horrible.”
James seemed to tremble slightly. “That... is just wrong. She better pray she never meets me.” His wings seemed to get darker for a second before they became their original bright gold. What was that....
Paige looked at him, “Well don’t get your hopes up, she vowed to hunt me and bring my soul back from the grave so I could destroy Ravenwood.”
Amy put a hand on her shoulder. “Hey, just know that if she does show up, You aren’t alone.” She smiled and gave a thumbs up.
She smiled sadly, “I’ve fought powerful foes that should have killed me in seconds, traveled across the multiverse to worlds I could only dream of. And now I’m here doing the same thing all over again.”
James gave her a cocky grin. “I think you got one detail wrong there.”
“Oh?” She looked at him, confused again by his antics. “Care to explain?”
His grin grew as he grabbed both me and Amy by the shoulders and pulled us in. “You got us three to watch you’re back!”
Amy grinned. “No way that I would let a little girl fight someone like that on her own.”
I nodded to Paige with a small frown on my face. “What she has done is not right. So I’ll help as much as I can.”
James made a quick glance past Amy at Michael’s sleeping form. “Oh... and him too once he’s awake.”
She giggled a little and looked at us with sad eyes, “I’m glad that I chose this...”
James turned to me. “What are friends for? Besides, I’m getting tired of that Hamlet guy constantly bugging me.”
She tilted her head, “Hamlet?” I’m also curious.... I’ve heard James mumble to himself a couple times about someone... could this be him?
He started rubbing the bridge of his nose and sighed. “Some crazed jester that is absolutely insane... He keeps sending these ‘Void Terrors’ to destroy me every now and then. I have no idea why though.”
“Distraction. Malistaire did the same thing, he enlisted the help of a lot of evil creatures to keep me from learning his true intentions.”
James nodded. “I thought something was going on behind the scenes...” He closed his eyes for a moment before smiling. “I’ll deal with that later though. For now, we shall head out!”
I tilted my head in confusion. “Head out where?”
He grinned and ran outside, wings at the ready. “TO ADVENTURE!!”
Amy sighed and followed him. “I’ll be right back...”
Paige grinned, “Huh... He’s silly.”
I chuckled a bit as I watched Amy leave. “He is, isn’t he?”
Outside we heard something crash before Amy dragged James back in by his leg. His wings weren’t there anymore. “Caught him.”
James grumbled from the ground. “That was mean...”
Paige sighed, “Good job.”
James looked up at me for a moment. “Say... I just realized something.”
I looked at him. “What?”
He grinned. “You haven’t really met Dean yet.”
Paige raised a hand, “I did, he’s a bit sad right now. I am curious about Alex though.”
James got up off the floor and grinned. “I think he’s still at the library. Want to go?”
She shrugged, “Fine by me.”
He marched to the door. “THEN OFF WE GO!” he stopped mid stride at the doorway and looked back. “But before I forget. Light Puppets.” A ball of light shot out of his finger and split into a small army of soldiers. The minis ran up to Michael and started to carry him away like cartoon ants. One even pulled out a cute little trumpet. “Huh... The trumpet’s new.”
Paige sighed, “I can get us there quickly. Grab my shoulders.” We all grabbed onto her shoulders and James’ puppets grabbed onto his pant leg, still holding on to Michael.
She sighed and closed her eyes as the sensation of falling leaves rushed over my skin. I quickly shut my eyes and felt the leaves come and go. I kept them shut and heard Amy talk. “Wow... Impressive.”
I looked around and saw that we were actually in the library. “Woah... that felt... weird.”
She nodded, “That’s how I felt the first time.”
James was rubbing his eye. “I think one hit my eye...” He pulled one out of his eye and blinked at it a couple times. “Oh... well then.” He just shrugged and tossed the leaf into the wind. I looked at him and saw his eye was fine. That was.... one of the most interesting way’s I’ve ever gotten from point A to point B.
Friends and Enemies: Act 6
(James POV)
Paige walked up to the library and knocked before Alex opened it. “Hello!”
Alex blinked, “Hi...” He looked at me before continuing. “James, Amy, new girl.”
Megan started twiddling with her braid again. “Um... It’s Megan...”
“Nice to meet you.” He moved aside, “Come in.”
We walked in and I found a seat on the couch as Paige turned to Alex, “So... I hear you can cast spells.”
He nodded, “Aye.”
She grinned, “So can I!”
Amy groaned as she sat down next to me. “I can smell the disaster already...”
I looked over to at her and raised an eyebrow, “Smell?”
Amy perked up and looked around a bit with a nervous smile. “I meant sense... yeah, that’s it.” I just shrugged after a while of looking at her and trying to read her mind.
Paige looked at her for a second before turning back, “So! Ever hear of Ravenwood?”
Alex and I blinked a couple times. I swear I’ve heard of Ravenwood before.... “Wait... Did you know a boy named Alex Lightmask?”
Megan and I looked at them in confusion. “Uh... Huh?”
Her eyes widened as she looked back at Alex, “How do you know him!?”
He chuckled a couple times. “Oh fuck me....”
I felt a breeze as Megan left her seat and smacked Alex upside the head. “Language!” HOLY!! How did she move so fast!?
“Ow.” He looked at her deadpan, “Dragonfly’s hurt more.”
She kept glaring at him. “Watch your language, there is a young girl right here in the room with you!”
Paige spoke up from her spot, “I’ve heard worse.”
Megan stare shifted slowly from one of mild anger at Alex to one of shock as she started to glow slightly and mumbled something at Alex while bowing repeatedly. I was pretty sure it was sorry. She says that a lot.
Paige looked at Alex again, “Care to answer?”
He blinked but nodded, “Um... Let’s just say that this is going to blow all of your minds.”
Amy raised an eyebrow. “Like this hasn’t already? I’m in a world full of talking ponies with completely crazy people and my ex boyfriend. I doubt it will.”
I sighed and started to rub my temples. “She just had to say it, didn’t she?”
Alex sighed and sat down in a chair, “In 2008 a brand new gaming company called Kingsisle decided to create a game for kids. It would be an MMORPG that focused on a card based combat system, that would also be good for kids and adults alike.”
I started grinning. “I think I see where this is going.” cause I think I remember where I heard of Ravenwood.
Alex looked at me blankly, “Anyways, the game was designed to be based around magic and saving a fictional reality from a necromancer.” He sighed, “The game was called Wizard101 and was based in The Spiral. You made a character belonging to one of seven schools of magic taught at the Ravenwood school of Magical Arts.” He looked at her sadly, “In 2009 I made a Balance wizard named Alex Lightmask and got him to level 50.”
I raised my arms in the air. “Called it!” I thought back to when I would play that game. Called myself Sam Lightninggem when I would explore the many worlds that had been released. Got him to level 48, but then buying new areas got too expensive and I had to stop playing.
Amy stared at Alex. “You’re kidding... You’re kidding, right?” NOPE!!
He shook his head, “No... While I was playing I helped another player in Dragonspyre named-”
“Paige Ravenbreeze.” Paige looked at him in shock, “I remember that, I was cornered by giant spiders and he came and helped me.” She started to back away. “Y-you mean to tell me my whole life was a game!” She hit the wall and slid down to the floor, “No. No no no no nononononononono!”
I stared at her in shock. That was her LIFE!? Good god.
Megan walked over and pulled Paige into a small hug. “Don’t think that. You lived every moment of it. So just because others were able to help through a game does not mean you were on a set path. I am sure, that if you had made one other decision while on your adventure the ‘game’ that the others played would have changed too.”
She looked at Megan in tears, “You weren’t there! I was literally ripped from my home! And now I learn that it was a game that was being played by others!”
I felt my blood turn cold. She was kidnapped into that building? Oh god.
She looked over at Alex, “I wasn’t the only one! Every other student there that I knew was kidnapped, Alex said he was from Chinook, Montana!”
Alex leaned back in shock, “O-oh god.”
Megan was looking at Paige sadly. “I know I wasn’t there... I never liked games that did that kind of thing... Now I see why. No one should have to go through that.”
I was feeling an absolute anger as I was frozen in shock. “I... am going to beat the fuck out of that Headmaster... and apologize to Sam... once I find him.”
Paige looked at me from the embrace Megan had her in, “Lightninggem?” I could only nodded slowly. “He’s from California. He was the one that helped me through all this.” The words hit me like a ton of bricks. I created a character in a game... and ripped a young boy from his home. Damn it.......
Amy looked at me. “It’s not like you knew...”
I sighed sadly. “Doesn’t change that I was somewhat responsible...” I hope he can forgive me if I meet him.
Alex sighed, “Think what would have happened if he didn’t take the kids.”
I stared sadly at him. “I know... If he hadn’t then the entirety of existence would have been utterly doomed.”
Alex nodded, “It still is.” He looked at Paige, “Last I remember my character was in the world Celestia, and Morganthe was revealed.” I was about the same when I had stopped playing from boredom.Now that I think about it, Alex may have been in my party at the time.
Paige nodded, “She’s planning on rewriting the multiverse. She also brought Malistaire back from the dead, and he’s floating around The Spiral.”
Amy glowered at the wall. “If I ever see that...” She didn’t finish the sentence as she grumbled under her breath. I nodded and Megan was still hugging Paige.
She started to hug Megan back, crying a little bit. “Nice to know I’m back...” Paige pulled away, “Wait, my sister’s coming!”
I blinked. “Your sister’s here? Geez, how many of us are going to have relatives pop out of the woodwork?! First it’s me with Amy, then it’s Sarah and a spontaneous twin, and now you too?” WHAT’S NEXT? WILL MICHAEL’S LONG LOST FATHER SUDDENLY SHOOTING OUT OF THE GROUND!?
Paige looked like she was about to say something when there was some yelling from outside as Megan turned her head to look out the window, “Paige! Paige where are you!”
Megan smiled warmly as she looked down at Paige with a knowing smile. “I think there’s someone outside you need to go and see.”
Paige got up and ran to the door, kicking it open and rushing outside. I could hear the person outside again. “P-Paige?” I got up and moved with the others to follow the small mage to the library's entrance.
I watched Paige run up and hugging the woman that stood in the street from the doorway. “SIS!”
Her sister started crying in her shoulder, hugging Paige as if she was going to blow away in an instant. “W-we thought you were dead! Oh god... Paige.”
“I’m back sis,” Paige cried into her sisters shoulder, “I’m back....”
“I swear I won’t let anyone take you again.” She looked Paige in the eyes. “I will kill whoever did this to you.”
Paige frowned a little, “Sis...” she sighed, “Okay.”
She looked over Paige’s shoulder and looked right at me. “O-oh um....” Call me cheesy, but I was lost in her eyes. They were simply beautiful. I couldn’t help but stare into them.
My eyes, however, didn’t move up as she stood and I got a sight of pure heaven. Sweet baby jesus those TITS!!
I kept staring and almost started to drool when I felt a sharp pain in my shin.
“WAKE UP!”
I jumped and grabbed my leg as the pain turned to a massive throbbing. “OW!! What was that for?”
Amy pointed over her shoulder. “You were staring like an idiot. Now go introduce yourself.”
I looked over and started glowing again. I walked up and nervously offered a hand. “Uh... h-hi... I’m James...”
She glowed softly, “H-hi, I’m Kate... Nice to meet you.” Kate.... what a fitting name. Simple... and beautiful at the same time.
I started to stammer slightly and tried to focus on something else. “Uh... y-yeah... you too.”
Paige looked at both of us and grinned, “Kate and James, sitting in a tree~”
I started to flare brightly as my brain started to picture me and Kate making out. Amy leaned down next to Paige and continued. “K. I. S. S. I. N. G~”
My head felt like it was overheating when Alex appeared next to us, “Now, you may kiss the bride.” It was too much for my mental processes to handle and I felt myself collide with the ground behind me.
(Megan POV)
I glared at Amy as she laughed and the glow faded away from James. He was laying in a pool of blood coming from his nose. “That was HILARIOUS!!” She started grabbing her sides and rolling on the ground. Turned to ignore her and started looking at James to check if he was still alive from the blood loss. Oh... I hope he’s alright.... Now where are some tissues?
Paige laughed a little and looked at Alex, “Heh, good job.”
Alex chuckled, “Of course.”
I looked up as I finished stuffing James’ nose with tissues. It would do... for now at least. “Um.. Could one of you help me carry them inside?” Amy had finally stopped laughing and got up to help lift James.
Alex sighed and lifted both of them up on his shoulders. “Yeah. Come on.”
Amy helped lay James on the table that was in the middle of the room after removing the bust. “He won’t mind. I’ve found him sleeping in weirder places before.”
I looked over at her in confusion. “Um... you have?”
Amy nodded “Yep.”
Paige looked at Kate as she layed on the couch, “Strange... Kate’s shy, but not that much.”
Amy grinned. “And James is normally a nutball. I think they were both suffering from a ‘Feels’ overload.” I winced internally as she said that. Really Amy?
Alex nodded, “Yeah... Wait what the hell does ‘Feels’ mean?” …...... he’s kidding...... right?......
Amy stared at him before facepalming. “Think emotion, you feel emotions, so a ‘Feels’ overload is when you have too much of one emotion.”
Alex blinked and nodded in understanding, “That makes sense... And don’t judge me, I’ve been dead for two years.” Oh, that explains that.
Amy nodded her head. “Okay, you got a point.”
I started rubbing James back to see if he would wake up. “James, wake up.”
James groaned and rolled slightly. “No... School sucks.” I looked at him before I had to started to stifle a laugh.
I looked at Paige and got a silly idea. I walked up and leaned down to meet her at eye level. “Do you know any water spells?”
She grinned, “Stand back.” I walked over to Amy and Alex leaving James on the table in the middle of the room and Kate sitting on the couch.
She pulled out a cutlass and closed her eyes before moving the sword in a symbol. With a final pierce, it started causing a drop of water hit me above my eye before it started raining harder. James sputtered awake and fell backwards off the table as the spell died down.
His soaking wet head popped over the edge and glared at everyone in the room “Okay, who did that?” Amy busted out laughing again and was starting to slip down the wall she was leaning against. “I will get you back for this Amy!”
Paige just chuckled, “Wrong person James.”
He turned to her. “Oh Really? Who’s idea was it then?” To say my sides hurt right now would be the biggest understatement in history. Oh my goodness Oh my goodness Oh my goodness!
She grinned, “She only asked if I knew water spells, not storm.”
He glared at her before turning to the wall and started to rub his chin. His face cracked with a grin before he started laughing as well. “Fine. But don’t think you’re off the hook. This prank will be countered eventually!” I looked over and saw the playful seriousness on his face. Oh dear..... I think I just started a small war.
Alex grinned, “I see.”
James jumped from the table and posed as he pointed at Alex. “YOU! DO YOU CHOSE TO JOIN ME IN THIS GLORIOUS ENDEAVOR!”
Alex shook his head, “Nah, I’m good.”
James arm fell slightly as he looked down. “Darn.”
Amy patted James on the back. “Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll find someone to help.” She turned his head to the couch where Kate was laying. “Maybe... her?”
James started to glow again and was flapping his jaws uselessly. “Uh... I... um... uh....” I wasn’t really sure how to feel about it. Am I being jealous? That’s just silly, why would I even need to be? It's not like I like him... I looked over to him and made a small frown. Do I?
Paige giggled, “I must admit... You two would be a cute couple.” James was frozen in place again and had blood starting to leak out his nose. Again, I wasn't sure how to feel about that comment.
I was chuckling slightly and started leading him to the door with mixed intentions. “I think it’s time we start heading back to Appleloosa.” And away from here... Oh my, why am I thinking like this?
Amy stood and smiled. “Yeah, we’ve been here for quite a while and it’s getting kinda late. Let’s head for the Inn and leave in the morning.” I nodded and we walked out the door leading the somewhat stupefied James. “Later!”
As me and Amy walked to the Inn to grab our stuff she looked at me. “So, how you liking being a wraith?”
I smiled and chuckled a little. “It’s...... strange.” We reached the Inn and Amy went to get our stuff. I looked around and saw the town living it’s everyday life and sighed. But this world is so beautiful, in more ways than one. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Author's Note
Alright everyone, the perspective errors have been fixed. The only reason they were there in the first place was me being ULTRA tired when transferring the scenes GDocs to here.
Cause I have tard moments like that.
Anyways; Paige, Alex, and Kate belong to Jimmy the Grape
Friends and Enemies: Act 7
(James’ POV)
We walked for about ten minutes before I managed to regain my senses. I realized something when we had arrived at the train station not a minute after that. “Uh... guys?” They both looked at me. “I still need to find my suit.”
“That can wait.” I turned around and saw Death standing behind us in his human form. “I have an assignment for you.” He pulled out a folder from his pocket and handed it to me. “I’m going to send Michael and Sarah’s groups to deal with a few sentiments that are lurking in some nearby ruins. I need you to clear a path for them and deal with the one that is guarding the ruins.”
I raised an eyebrow. “Couldn’t we just... I don’t know... deal with all of them?”
Death shook his head. “That would be sending you on a suicide mission. The three inside are more powerful than the guard. Sarah and Michael have more experienced wraiths accompanying them, while you all are rather... fresh.” He turned around. “And I suggest moving soon. The forest is rather lively thanks to your target.”
With that he left and I turned to Amy. ”Well I guess we’re headed on a camping trip.”
She sighed and cracked her neck. “Let’s get this over with.” We all nodded and got ready to leave for the wilderness. I summoned my wings and lifted Megan while Amy chose to run under us. When we got there the trees looked.... ominous.
I looked in and felt a chill run up my spine. “So... our target is in there?”
Megan looked through the folder that Death gave us. “Um.... I think so.... it says here that the guard is only about two and a half miles in.”
I nodded and readied my guns. “Alright. Let’s get moving.” We walked into the woods and light was almost immediately cut off and I felt some pressure on my head. “Damn it’s dark.” I guess it’s messing with me due to my powers....
Amy passed me without slowing down. “Looks fine to me.”
I looked in her direction for a moment. Does she have night vision or something? I can’t see shit! “Well then, you’re leading cause I’m blind right now.”
I heard her chuckle. “Or you could get Megan to let go of your head. That might help.” ...What?...
I reached to my eyes and... oh hey, there are hands on them. “Meg, could you please let go?” I could see a moment later and Megan was glowing while twiddling her braid.
“Sorry.... something brushed against my leg....”
Amy laughed. “I couldn’t tell... you only had a death grip on his head.” She did? Well that explains the trauma level head pressure.
I sighed and smiled at her. “Hey. Don’t worry, Me and Amy are right here.” She smiled back and gave a quick nod. I flipped open the folder after getting it from Meg and looked at the instructions. “Let’s get a move on. Says here that we are not to be spotted by the others for any reason whatsoever.”
Amy turned serious and looked ahead. “And we don’t really know when they’ll start their mission.” Without another word we headed into the foliage.
We walked about halfway to our destination when I heard a growl. “Uh... you guys hear that?” Amy stopped and looked around for a sec before drawing her bow. I followed her gaze and saw a... okay... there are Manticores in Equestria....
This one seemed off though. It’s head and back were covered in thin vines and it’s eyes were glazed over.
Megan gulped and took a step back. “Um.... g-good kitty?....” The manticore growled and lunged with a roar. Amy quickly got in front of it and slammed her knee in it’s face.
She looked back at Meg. “You just going to stand there or fight?” She shot an arrow at the manticore only for it to dodge.
Megan stood and grabbed a hilt from her waist. “Rapier Activate.” A pair of pink veins shot out of her wrist and connected with the hilt. A long thin blade shot out of the top and Megan readied herself.
I shot at the manticore, scoring a direct hit between the eyes. It fell over dead, and the vines rotted away. “Hmm... I guess the guy was turned into a guard dog.”
Amy put her bow away and nodded. “I’m going to venture that our target did this.” For some reason, Megan was still holding her weapon and was looking behind us. “Um... Meg? It’s dead. You can put the blade away now.”
She pointed behind us and I turned to see.... oh shit.... it’s one of those Void Terrors again. This one was flying though, and was smaller by a considerable degree. It was about the size of a small dog or cat, and had large leather wings that were purplish in color. Three sets of claws were hanging off it’s body and a large eye was at the center of the chest. I noticed the eye dilate when it screeched when it looked at us, causing four more to come out of the trees.
“Shit.”
I fired at two on the right and hit one in the eye. it fell over dead in an instant. “Aim for the eye!” Amy nodded and took out two more.
One charged forward at Megan only to be sliced in half. “Just what are these things!?”
I could only stare and blink at her as Amy shot the last one. “Uh.... what happened to you being scared?”
She blinked and started to shuffle her feet. “Um... I kinda was taught how to fence when I was alive.... I reacted on reflex when it charged me....” She looked at the remains of the Terror as it slowly faded into nothing. “I didn’t mean to kill it....”
I put a hand on her shoulder. “It would have killed you if you didn’t. These things are completely soulless according to what Death had told me. They attack living things in the void and devour them. Soul and all.” I looked at where the terrors had once been and scowled. So why hasn’t Hamlet been eaten by these things?
Amy had walked ahead of us and yelled back. “Hey! We still got a job to do!”
I sighed and motioned for Meg to follow me. “Common, let’s not keep her waiting.”
We followed her to a small clearing of trees that looked mangled and rotted. I could hear someone laughing and readied my guns. A vine shot out and wrapped around my neck and lifted me up into the canopy above.
Amy looked around in shock. “James?!” I saw a pair of greenish eyes appear in front of Megan and she blocked a vine headed straight for her, causing her to skid back slightly.
She looked around with Amy for a moment. “W-who’s there....” From behind a tree emerged a woman in pale green robes, her brown hair matted across her face. She looked up at them before her grin opened to let out a shriek. Amy covered her ears and was slammed into by another vine, leaving Megan to fend for herself as more vines came from behind the tree and started to wrap around her.
Megan shook as the woman came out from behind the trees completely. She said not a word as she raised a hand and called forth a staff and pointed at Megan.
Megan vs. Sentiment
Rebel 1, Action!
(Megan vs. Sentiment theme)
Amy looked at Megan and yelled. “Stop standing and get ready!” Megan tried to look intimidating as she took a deep breath and readied her rapier. I was hoping she could handle this one on her own.
The sentiment pointed forwards and launched a trio of vines at Megan while shrieking again. Megan blocked the vines as they shot forward and jumped at the sentiment. For the next minute they parried blow after blow as Megan sliced furiously at the earthen whips. Wow she’s fast.
Eventually Megan got a hit in and sent the sentiment stumbling back. It glared at her and slammed the staff into the ground causing vines to erupt from below and a hoard of smaller creatures to come swarming forward.
Megan scowled and jumped from tree to tree, dodging the plants and avoiding the critters entirely. She lunged onto the sentiment and stabbed it through the shoulder. It shrieked and slammed the staff into Megan’s gut and sent her flying back.
Megan was sent tumbling and flipped onto her feet to dodge an attack from the small swarm that had been summoned. I looked down and saw that all of them had vines coming out of their necks. Mind controlling plants en mass.... fuck.
Megan flashed forwards and the vines were cut into pieces and the creatures that were attached to them ran away. She turned back to the sentiment and they slowly started to circle each other.
The sentiment vanished before slamming her staff into Megan’s chin. Oh... that had to hurt. Megan was sent flying upwards and got swatted away when she came back down.
Megan stood and had a trickle of blood coming off her forehead. “Please.... Don’t make me do this...” The sentiment just smiled sickly and charged. Megan sadly looked down and in an instant the sentiment was sent flying back by a forceful slash across the torso.
It looked at her in a rage and shrieked as another Manicore came into view. "Shit, got to get this vine-" I was trying to get the vines off my neck only for it to tighten and more started to grab my arms, pinning them to my sides. Oh Come On!
Megan jumped over the manticore and sliced the vines off. It stopped and shook itself and looked at her and the sentiment before growling and standing next to Meg. She looked at it for a moment and smiled. “Good boy.”
The sentiment shrieked again and started to surround itself in thorny vines. “THIS IS MY DOMAIN! I GREW ALL OF THIS!! LEAVE NOW OR DIE!!”
Megan sighed and readied her blade. “I’m sorry.... but I can’t do that.”
The sentiment flailed the vines at Megan and struck her chest. It pulled back the vines and showed blood dribbling down off the thorns before continuing it’s assault.
Megan clutched her shoulder as she got away from the sentiment and glared before readying her rapier and slicing it across the chest, followed by an upward stab that sent it into the air. She cut across the sentiment repeatedly for the duration of its flight and slammed it into the ground with a downward slash.
The manticore had pounced onto the sentiment and clawed at its back until it was blown back by the vines. It landed with a growl of pain and rolled away next to Megan.
The sentiment shrieked yet again and sent a volley of thorns at Meg as it flailed it’s vines wildly. She blocked most of them, but got hit three or four times in the shoulders and legs. She looked over and saw the Manticore had taken quite a few and was stumbling around with blood seeping from may impact and puncture wounds.
Megan glared at the sentiment. “That’s it.....” She vanished and appeared behind the sentiment, stabbing it through its back to where her blade was three inches out of the front. The sentiment shrieked as it’s body faded into a cascade of leaves, leaving a mint green soul in its place just above Megan’s blade.
Megan grabbed the soul before she ran up to Amy and sliced her free. “Are you alright?”
Amy cracked her neck. “Been better... But I’ll be fine. Say you seen James”
I sighed and looked down. “I’m up here!” Apparently they didn’t hear me and kept talking about where I could possibly be. HOW ABOUT UP DAMNIT!!
I felt something furry brush against my cheek and looked over to see a squirrel looking at me. “Hey.” It nodded and pointed to the vines. “Could you? I’m a little stuck.” It.. and I kid you not... saluted and ran away leaving me alone. Well fine then! Leave me here after saying you’ll help me down!
It came back with a couple others and started to eat away at the vines. “Thanks little-” The vines snapped and I fell down from the canopy.” GUUUUUYYYYYYYYYYYY!” I hit the ground with a thud face first. “Ow...”
“Oh hey, there you are.” I scowled up at her. ‘What?”
I stood and brushed off my legs. “Oh, nothing. I was just hanging from that sentiment’s impromptu noose calling down at you guys only to get ignored.”
Megan glowed and started twiddling her braid. “Sorry....”
I sighed. “It’s fine Meg. Some squirrels helped me down.” I looked at the soul and smiled. “Well, I guess you got a sentiment all on your own. Congratulations, The soul is yours.”
She looked at it in confusion for a moment. “So.... I just.... eat it?” I nodded and she took a deep breath before putting it in her mouth and swallowing. She..... didn’t do anything. No shiver, no shake, nothing.... She looked back at us with a surprised look on her face. “Wow... that was.... minty.”
Amy blinked before frowning. “Huh.... mine tasted like kiwis.”
I looked at her in amusement. “Don’t you hate those?” She scowled at me and I couldn’t help but laugh. “Alright, I get the picture. I’ll shut up.” I looked up and saw the sun starting descend into a sunset, showing how late it was. “Let’s get out of here before Michael and Sarah’s groups start their mission. I can still fly for a bit.”
Megan grabbed onto my shirt before I could take off. “Um... James?” She pointed behind me. “What about him?” I looked over to where she was pointing and saw the Manticore from earlier wounded and laying on the ground.
“I don’t know Meg... Maybe we can patch it up somehow?” She walked over to in and placed a hand on it. It’s body glowed pink and it got up completely unharmed.
Megan blinked dumbly as it turned to her and licked her face. “Um..... what did I just do?”
Amy stared at the oversized feline and nodded. “I... think you healed it.” Megan smiled and started to give the manticore a good scratch behind the ears.
The Manticore purred as Megan started to rub it’s chin. “Who’s a good Kitty?”
I cleared my throat and the three of them stared at me. “We really need to be going guys.” Megan pouted, but got up and gave one last hug to the feline before it ran into the woods.
We made our way out of the woods no problem. I spotted no hide, or hair of any other wraiths besides us and got out before sunset. Death appeared briefly and congratulated us on a mission success. Even gave some extra praise to Megan for defeating the sentiment single handedly, due to a slight error on information. It turns out.... it was about equal to the weakest one inside.
We left for the train station soon after that and when we got there, I noticed the one thing I had been looking for this entire damn time. “MY SUIT!!” It was sitting in a booth titled “lost and found.” Amy grabbed it as I was banging my head on a post supporting the roof above us.
A New Song to Play Pt. 1
The train ride back to Appleloosa was calm for the most part. Amy and Megan talked about figuring out what her powers were and what she could do with them for the most part while I just sat and listened.
Amy was leaning back in her cot. “So... you are completely sure it’s just plants?”
Megan nodded. “Yes. Well... the sentiment did a lot with plants so... I just kind of figured...”
Amy laughed a little and waved a hand. “I’m joking! You’re probably right on the money.” She furrowed her brow. “But how did that let you heal that manticore? I mean, if your power is plants that shouldn’t tie into healing.”
I looked over at her with a raised brow and a smirk. “Plants are symbolic for life. I think it fits just fine.” Megan glowed slightly and gave me a thankful smile as Amy tossed a pillow at me. “What? You asked.”
Amy was grinning despite her glare. “I didn’t ask you smart ass.”
I feigned being hurt. “See Megan? I get no respect here.” We all had a small laugh and the train kept heading on.
Megan was still giggling slightly. “Anyways, um....” She fidgeted for a second. “When I activated my weapon... why was it pink and glowing? If you don’t mind telling me that is.”
I sighed a little before rubbing the back of my head. “Well.... I think Death explained it to me once some time back so I’ll give you a brief explanation. Our weapons are fueled by our souls so the color of our weapon is dependent on our soul’s color and sometimes our sentiment abilities. The glowing thing is just cause it’s ethereal and not made of truly physical materials. Is that good?”
Megan nodded and gave me a small smile. “Yes, thank you James.”
Everything was silent for a while until Amy spoke up again. “So what are we going to do when we get back to Appleloosa? I know for a fact you aren’t one to plan things ahead James.”
I tapped my chin and hummed. She has a point... “Well.... I almost got enough to buy this house that’s on the outskirts of town....” I stood up and walked around the car while tapping my chin. If I could get about another.... ten... twenty bits, I could afford that house when we get there.... I grinned and slammed my fist into my open palm. “That’s it! I know what I’m doing today!” I ran to the outside of the car and climbed to the roof.
Amy and Megan were hot on my heels as I got onto the metal top. Amy shouted as I got near the edge of the car. “The hell are you doing!?”
I flashed her a calm smile as I waved. “See you guys there! Restriction one release, Solar Winds!” The wings sprung to life and I took off from the train. I laughed as I soared past the train and over the remaining plateaus that were between me and Appleloosa. I only took about twenty minutes, give or take, and I landed on the edge of town. “Alrighty now... just need to find Braeburn and get my paycheck a little bit early.”
I walked calmly over to the orchards and looked around. It wasn’t long before I found Braeburn loading some buckets of apples into a cart. “Well hey there James! Glad to see ya back!”
I smiled. “It’s good to see you to Braeburn. Hey, do you think I could get paid a little early this week?”
He hitched up to the cart and looked over. “Sure partner. May I ask why though?” I chuckled and nodded.
“I just need a couple more bits to pay for a house. I can’t be mooching off of Choc’s family forever.... That, and the fact that my little family is getting a bit big.”
Braeburn laughed as we got in front of the barn. “That’s alright James. Just help me get some of this inside and I’ll get yer pay.” A quick unloading later, Braeburn had given me my pay and I was off to the Mayor’s office at Town Hall.
The town hall wasn’t that big of a building. It was two stories, with only three offices in the whole thing. The first floor was mostly the lobby and a few necessities for a public building. The offices were on the second floor and the largest was the Mayor’s. I waved to the secretary and the kind mare waved back as I started up the stairs.
When I got to the top and turned down the hall, the Sheriff and Mayor were talking in the latter’s office. The Sheriff sounded far from happy and was ranting and raving at the Mayor to the point that the old stallion's white mane was being blown back some. “Ah’m tellin’ ya, he shouldn’t be allowed to stay here! This town’s been free of gunslinin’ trouble makers since it was built and Ah plan on keepin’ it that way!”
I walked down the hall and took a peek into the room. The Mayor’s grey face remained calm as he stared into the mad sheriff’s eyes with his own auburn ones. “And it will stay that way if I did let him buy property here. I don’t see any reason that he can’t buy land other than you being sore about who he is. Get out of my office Silverstar.”
The Sheriff glared for a few more seconds before walking out the door. The moment he saw me, his mood worsened and he stormed off grumbling to himself. I looked at him as he left before sighing. He’s still mad about our first introduction..... man that guy can hold a grudge.
I took a moment to clear my head before turning into the Mayor’s office and knocking on the open door. “May I come in?” The Mayor lifted his head away from his hoof and looked at me before smiling and waving me in.
“James! It’s good to see you. What brings ya here today?” He grinned a little before leaning over his desk. “You didn’t blow up another barn did you?” I let out a dejected sigh while he started to laugh. “Oh come now James. You didn’t expect me to let you live that one down now did you? It was hard enough to get the press to accept that you wanted to remain anonymous let alone fix the mess.”
I gave him an awkward smile and rubbed the back of my head. “Yeah, and I’ll forever be grateful that you did.” I sat up and looked over to the Mayor. “Anyways, About why I came over. I was wondering if that house on the outskirts of town was still available.”
The Mayor nodded. “Yep, No one really want’s ta buy it other than you. You finally got the bits ta buy it?” I lifted my coin purse and placed it onto his desk.
I started to pull out the bits and soon there was a pile of 5300 bits. “There you go Mayor. That should be enough to cover the expenses.” He looked over the bits before sighing and resting his head on a hoof. “Um.... is there a problem?”
He didn’t move an inch as he started to move some bits into a separate pile. “James, how much were ya told the house cost?”
I blinked a few times before scratching the side of my head in confusion. “Um.... 5300. Why?”
The Mayor finished moving the bits and took about 1500 from the pile. “I’ve had that house’s mortgage on record since the town was founded. It’s not even half of that. I’ve also been tryin ta get that through the pig headed mare that owns it.” He sighed and pushed the extra bits back to me. “At least ah can stop hearin’ her complain ‘bout it. Old bat’s been nothing but a pain.”
I shrugged my shoulders and took the extra money back. “Well that and the fact that I don’t have to pay so much are positives. Now what do I need to sign?” After a bit of time, I’d signed some papers and got the deed of the house signed in my name. With a brief nod and a wave farewell from the mayor, I stood up and started to leave the room. “I’ll see you around Mayor.”
He waved back and smiled warmly from his desk while putting the papers in a drawer. “Don’t be a stranger James!”
I waved behind me with a smile as I headed off. “I try not to!” As I walked to my new home, I couldn't help but chuckle. "I've got a good feeling that this week will finally let me relax."
Author's Note
IT'S FINALLY OUT OF HIATUS! ENJOY THIS PATHETICALLY SHORT CHAPTER! BLAME MY VAGABOND MIND FOR IT"S WANDERING NATURE! I AM BUT A MUPPET!
^
View Online
Everywhere we go something strange happens Pt. 4
~James POV (Before hiding in the bathroom)~
I could hear Clever laughing downstairs. I was sitting on the small toilet that was in the bathroom and I was glowing profusely. “I can’t believe I just did that...” I took a small peak at my breasts before looking at a wall.
I must not think about it.
I sat for a moment more until a scent assaulted my nose. What is... I raised an arm and took a whiff, before reeling back. Found the 1% that stayed the same. “I need a bath...”
I moved over to the small tub they had and started to take off my shirt. I dared not open my eyes and start fondling myself. I quickly took off my pants and looked to my left.
Bad idea considering there was a mirror there. Oh dammit... They’re bigger that Amy’s were... Hell they’re bigger than Alex’s pair!
I started to get curious and raised them with the back of my hands. Perky... I continued playing, for lack of a better word, with my boobs when I noticed for the second time the other change the spell did.
I wasn’t really paying it any attention before... but now that I see it...
I quickly slapped myself across the face before my hand made contact with my nether regions. No. not again. The desert was awkward enough.
I climbed into the shower and found some soap. This will be... interesting. I quickly washed and was smelling like strawberries. Why does that have to be the only soap she has? I was expecting apples if anything.
Outside the room, I could hear Appleslice walking with someone up the stairs. “Ah’ve told him ta go ta the inn, but he still needs ta get a solid income for that ta work.” Is she dissing me! I’ve been working my ass of at the orchard!
I could hear Amy on the other side of the door. “Oh, silly me, I forgot to ask what your name was.” I facepalmed and continued doing so as they continued talking.
“It’s Appleslice dear. Now have yourself a good rest.” I leaned against the door and sighed. She just gave Amy my room didn’t she?
“JAMES YOU’RE SLEEPING ON THE COUCH!” Yup, she did.
I could hear Alex calling from downstairs. Just hearing his voice right now sent shivers down my spine. He better not slap my ass again... It felt... weird... and oddly arou- NO BAD BRAIN! “Come here James, I’m waiting for ye... In the living chamber!”
OH GOD! DID HE JUST INSINUATE?! I quickly grabbed the bolt and locked the door. “NOT LEAVING THIS ROOM!!” I ran over to the tub, climbed in, and drew the curtain as fast as I could. He is NOT seeing me like this. No one will as long as I have a say in it!
I could hear Alex on the other side of the door. “O rly!?” The door was suddenly kicked open as if the lock wasn’t there, I looked as beheld Alex standing there with a manic grin. “It’s raping time!”
I screamed as he slammed the door shut behind him. I was trying to cover myself with the curtain but slipped in the tub. “Jesus Alex! Get OUT!”
Alex covered his eyes, “Jesus! What the fuck!”
“If you wanted the shower, you could have waited a few seconds!” I grabbed a towel that was hanging from a rack next to the tub and covered myself.
Alex was glowing bright green, “Why the fuck didn’t ye say ‘I am in the shower’? I would have waited.”
I started glowing as well. “Sorry I panicked from what you said!” I sighed “Today has been kinda stressful. You know with the whole...” I gestured to my breasts. “...And yeah.”
He frowned and kicked his foot on the ground while looking at the ground, “Sorry... Didn’t mean to....”
I looked over and barely stopped myself from ogling him. Damn those boobs... “I know... but it’s starting to get to me. My back is killing me from all this stress.”
He looked, “If ye want, I do know how to relieve stress via massage. But if ye don’t want me to....” The thought ran through my brain and I almost had a nosebleed. Massage by hot woman... or stress induced back pain.... massage, back pain, massage, back pain.... Massage.
I gave him a thankful smile. “I’d like that very much...” I groaned as I popped my back. “It’s been getting worse for days now.”
He smiled a little, “Well I need ye to lay down on yer stomach... I promise I won’t do anything bad.” I glowed slightly at the thought, but complied and laid down on the floor.
I felt him place his hands on my shoulders, “Ye sure ye want me to...?”
I grinned a little and chuckled. “Go on. I don’t mind.” His hands started kneading my shoulders gently. Oh... that feels nice...
He slowly started moving down my back, popping the vertebrae. Oooh that kinda huuuuurt... nevermind feels nice again... I had started to drool slightly, Damn Alex is a good masseuse.
He went back up and massaged my shoulders again, causing my muscles to completely relax. Good god I feel like I’m melting... “Is it wrong to be enjoying this as much as I am?”
He chuckled, “No. It’s natural.” He moved back down and got rid of a very tense spot.
I moaned involuntarily. “Whatever you just did. DON’T STOP!”
He did it again and I moaned again, before he swept over everything again. Causing a shiver to go through me. Dammit why was that arousing? FUCKING MAGIC FINGERS!!!
He went back and slowly pressed his palms into the tense areas, causing even more shivers. Damn it damn it damn it I shouldn’t be enjoying it like this but I DON'T CARE ANY MORE!! I moaned loudly and my tongue lolled out of my mouth. I need to head over to a spa more often.
Alex stopped and kept his hands over a really tense spot, “Umm... lad, ye want me to stop or?”
“Finish or get shot.” Oh... wow.... did I just.... God damnit these boobs are making me gay!
He sighed, “Fine... This might feel really good.” He pressed his hands into the tense spot and massaged his fingers into it, causing my back to arch. He then slid his hands back up and hit all of the previously tense areas before swiping them down again, causing every nerve on my back to relax. I squealed as I felt a wave of relief and pleasure wash over me and through my body. Fuck... Me... that... was.... Aaaaaaaawesome...
I was unconscious on the floor after he was done. Drooling slightly on the ground.
~Amy POV~
I was holding a pillow to my face, trying to smother myself into sleep. “Damnit they won’t shut UP!”
I got out of bed and heard a loud squeal from the bathroom. OH GOD! I ran in and saw Alex on top of an unconscious James who was drooling on the ground.
An Unconscious, NAKED, James. They didn’t....
I glared at Alex, “Explain. Or DIE.”
He raised his hands, “He complained about his back hurting so I gave him a massage... He, uh... I think he just came....”
MY MIND!! IT HAS BEEN VIOLATED!!! I facepalmed and glowed silver as I turned away from Alex. “Wh-whatever. Just... Help me get some clothes on his ass and into a bed.”
Alex glowed green and nodded, “Okay.” With as little looking at him as possible we got his pants back on and a shirt draped across his shoulders, covering his chest enough for the moment. I really hope this doesn’t offend Ms. Appleslice...
We laid him down on the couch and threw a blanket on him. He was snoring softly and was clutching his pillow in a death grip. “Huh... Normally his snores are loud and obnoxious.”
Alex glowed again, “I think it’s because of the-”
I stopped him before he could continue. “Don’t say it. Just.... Don’t.” I started for the stairs again and was illuminating the stairwell. “Now if you'll excuse me, I have some nightmares to experience.”
I heard him sigh, “Night.”
I made my way to the guest room and fell onto the bed. Fuck my life.....
~James POV (The Next Morning)~
I woke up in a daze. Oh... what happened? I looked around and saw that I was in the living room. How did I get here?
I sat up and noticed my shirt hanging on my shoulder. I looked at it in confusion and tried to remember what had happened. Okay... shower... awkwardness... massage...an- Oh god, THE MASSAGE!
I glowed brightly as I looked at Alex sleeping on the other couch. Did I... Did I let him... Oh did I really? I remembered the feeling I had before I passed out. OH GOD I DID!! Looking closer, his hand was in his pants... with a wet spot in the front. AND HE’S FANTASIZING ABOUT IT!!
I was staring at nothing as I laid back into the cushions, hoping they would devour me. “I can’t believe it... I... As a woman... Dammit all....” Alex was starting to stir and I hid under the covers. Oh god, this is going to be awkward....
Alex yawned, “Hey James.”
I was glowing under the covers as I pulled them tighter. “Uh... H-hey... Alex.”
“Umm... About yesterday....”
My head shot out of the covers. “Let’s agree not to ever talk about it ever again after you reverse the spell. Deal?”
He glowed, “About that... Amy came in after ye passed out.”
My eyes shrank to pinpricks. “Wh-what?” Oh god............... my life is over.
He glowed brighter, “Yeah... She won’t talk about it.” He looked at me in fear, “D-did ye see the?”
I blinked in confusion. “See what?”
He held up a hand while glowing bright green and trying to hide himself, “Um.... I’d rather not say.”
I glowed and quickly put my shirt on. “S-sorry.... Still used to being a man....”
“Ah...” He looked me in the eyes, “This. Never. Happened.”
“Agreed. Though you are one hell of a masseuse.”
“Thanks.”
Me, Amy, and Choc were standing in an open field in the orchard. Alex was standing in front of us with his book. “You almost done with the spell?”
“Yeah... Okay!” He waved his hand while muttering a few words and we returned to normal.
I walked up to Alex and stared at him in the eyes. Okay brain..... think.........No gay thoughts? Good. I grinned triumphantly and cheered. “The thoughts are gone!”
Amy looked over at me. “Thoughts?”
I grinned like an idiot. “The gay ones those knockers were implanting in my head! THEY’RE GONE!!” I was crying tears of joy as I looked up at the sky.
Alex facepalmed, “Lad... Boobs don’t give ye gay thoughts. That was all ye.”
I snapped my head at Alex. “I’M NOT GAY!”
“Well ye weren’t a man at the time... So therefore ye were attracted to a woman... Ye were completely straight during the whole thing.”
“Exactly! It was just messing with my head having boobs, and being attracted to women. It was like the boobs were telling me I was gay!”
Alex raised a finger before dropping it, “Nevermind...”
Amy started glowing and turned away. “Can you please talk about something else...”
Choc walked up to Alex, “Can ya teach me how ya made Mr. James moan like that!?”
We all looked at him in shock. “No.”
Choc pouted. “Why noooooot?”
I looked around and realised I was on my own, cause Amy had fled and Alex was walking away whistling. “Um... well you see... You learn that... uh... when you... Umm... Go ask your mom. NO! Better yet! Just please forget that ever happened.”
He looked at me, “Well ya looked like ya were enjoying yerself.”
I started glowing with more intensity than a thousand suns. “Well... I... Uh....” Quick man! THINK! THINK!! I quickly picked him up. “Let’s get you back to your mom!” I bolted down the road and got to his house in record time. “Okay, here you go, have a nice day. BYE!!”
I ran back to the orchard and left Choc on his front step. That was close...
Alex stepped from behind a tree, “Hey.”
I glared at him. “Thanks for the help ya jackass.”
“I don’t have a good experience when it comes to explaining sex with children.”
I stared at him and nodded. “That makes sense.”
He sighed, “Well, I survived his mother and I think I should take my leave.”
I nodded again. “Yeah, you probably should... Things can get really weird around h-” A large explosion came from the outskirts of town. I saw a small hole floating in the air. “I just can’t get a break can I?”
Alex sighed, “Might as well help....”
I started walking towards town when a familiar laugh rang through the air. It can’t be... I started running ahead of Alex and through the town.
Ponies were starting to run in the other direction and Amy was standing in the street. She grabbed my arm and stopped me. “James, What is going on?” I looked around and saw a couple kids hiding in the alleys. If I fight him, and he’s as strong as Death says he is...
I tore my arm from her grip and pointed to the kids. “No time. Just make sure to get everyone over to the other side of town.”
I started running towards the disturbance and I could hear Amy calling after me. I ignored her and skid to a halt at the edge of town. Standing right there was the one man I wanted to destroy for what he did.
He grinned as he turned towards me. “Why Hello! It’s good to see you again James~. Having fun?”
“Hamlet.”
He waved a hand in front of himself and leaned forward. “Now now, no need to be a stick in the mud...” He waved his hand over the rip he had come out of. “Just here to drop something off. Oh Peaches~ Daddy’s got a playmate for you!~”
A grotesque fleshy limb shot out of the rip and started to pull it open wider. Soon another limb followed it and pulled a tooth ridden maw from the hole. “Now be a good girl and do what daddy told you to do.” He looked over to me and pulled the head over. “And you can eat him and any ponies you find if you want.”
The teeth shook as it roared and jumped out completely. It looked like an overgrown dog with all the skin ripped off and it’s head replaced by The Thing with beady eyes on the sides. It’s tail was longer than it should have probably been and had some claw like thing at the end. ‘Peaches’ looked over to me and roared.
Hamlet was standing next to the hole. “See ya later James~ HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!” He fell back into the maw before it closed, leaving me with the monstrosity of a pet.
“Shit.”
James vs. Peaches
Rebel 1, Action!
(James vs. Peaches theme)
I jumped to my right when It charged at me. Death... Could use a little help here! I jumped over the thing as it charged again, but the tail grabbed me and started to slam me into the ground.
It roared as it tossed me off to the side. I tumbled as I skid across the ground. I got up in time to dodge to the right and draw my guns. “Okay beasty. You asked for it! Explosive shot.” I switched to the missile pod and fired. the rockets collided with it and sent up a cloud of dust and flame.
I got up and grinned until the thing charged forwards unharmed and rammed into me. It’s teeth chewed at my chest as it rammed me into a nearby cliff face. “GAHH!” WHERE THE HELL ARE YOU DEATH!!
I was tossed to the side and was bleeding profusely from my chest. Hamlet must have blocked him out again... What did Alex say for restrictions? Removing the first limiter or something?
I shakily stood as Peaches charged. “Removing the first limiter.” Golden flames rocketed out of my body as Peaches collided with me, sending the freakish abomination into the air in a roar of pain.
I also was being racked with spasms of pain as the energy seemed to erupt from my body. “L-limiter, one re-released!” The flames cut out and I fell to my knees panting. Good fucking god! It didn’t hurt that much the first time!
I suddenly heard Alex’s voice. Sorry lad... I forgot about the limiter.
I looked around but couldn’t see Alex anywhere. You’re talking telepathically aren't you?
Aye... I can’t control it mind ye, just got lucky. Hold on, I’ll be there soon.
I shrugged and stood shakily as Peaches crashed into the ground a few yards away. He better hurry. I’m not sure if I can hold out much longer.
Peaches quickly stood back up and roared with rage. I was knocked back by it’s tail and collided with the wall. I coughed up some blood and crashed into the ground. “Hurry... up... Alex....”
A yell came from the side, “Frostmourne...” Alex flew from the side and slashed the tail, “Hungers!” The beast roared and swiped at him with a paw/claw/thing as green blood sprayed from the wound. He jumped back as the appendage flew in front of him. He smirked, “Oh please fat man.” He slashed the sword and grinned as the beast roared in pain. “Fun fact! The sword steals your soul after ye touch it!”
I pulled myself off of the ground and readied both my guns. “Scatter shot.” I aimed both of my sawn off shotguns and fired. The blast slammed into the side of the beast and sent it flying. “Take that jackass!” I spit some blood on the ground and leaned onto the cliff. “Fuck this hurts.”
The thing stopped it’s assault and started to burrow underground. Oh, come on! I felt the ground under me shake and the thing slammed into my back. I tumbled for a moment and the beast tried to maul my face. I barely grabbed onto the maw before it got too close.“GAH! Alex! I could use a hand!”
Alex ran forward and slammed his sword into the beast’s side before thrusting his hand in the cut, “SANDS OF TIME!” He pulled the sword out and backed away while it screamed in slow mo.
I crawled out from under the beast and aimed. “Take this! Rapid shot!” I switched to a pair of TMP’s and fired into the things mouth. The bullets tore through the soft flesh on the inside of the beast and it collapsed onto the ground.
I stood there panting and covered in blood as I continued to point at the corpse. I watched as it rapidly started to rot and sink into the ground, leaving a skeleton, before collapsing onto the ground. “Good... fucking... god!... Just what was that thing!”
Alex kicked it, “I don’t know...”
“Awww, I was hoping it would last longer~” I looked up and saw Hamlet staring down at me. “You~ did better than I expected,” He shot a glare at Alex, “even if you did cheat.”
Alex shrugged, “Eh... Say’s the love child of The Joker, Cobra Commander, Queen Azshara, and Emperor Zerg.”
Hamlet grinned insanely, “Oh one more thing~ You’re little activities yesterday were quite enjoyable! Helped push my plans forward in ways even I didn’t expect.” Plans?
I shakily stood up and glared at Hamlet. “Fuck... you...” I took a swing and felt my hand stop two inches from him.
He scowled. “I don’t have time for this. My work here is done anyways.” He raised a hand and flicked me in the forehead. I shot back into the cliff and most of the rock above me shattered from the impact. Rubble fell down and crushed my lower half as Hamlet raised his hand.
“Dimensional Tear.” With the fall of his hand, a tear formed in the air. He chuckled before falling into a maniacal laugh. “I was holding back by the way. I’ll be seeing you around James~” He jumped into the portal and it quickly sealed itself.
Alex quickly walked over and pulled out a banana, “Eat it, quickly.”
I stared at him before grabbing the banana. I took a bite and swallowed. I could feel my bones mending and I started to push the rubble off. “Damn it... He got away.”
I suddenly felt a presence in the back of my mind and heard a familiar voice. James are you there? You were blocked from me again.
I sighed and made a ‘phone call’ sign with my hand at Alex and mouthed ‘Death’. Yeah, I’m here... Just got my ass kicked by Hamlet and his pet... but I’m still here.
I could hear Death’s frustration on the other end of the connection. “How is he capable of blocking me out? I created him! This shouldn’t be possible...”
“Uh... still on this end? And what was that thing?”
Death sighed on his end. “It was what I call a Void Terror. It’s a good thing no one got killed otherwise they would have been lost to oblivion. I was about to give you a mission but you’re in need of rest. Take care James.”
“Alright, I’ll stay in Equestria. Not like I can go anywhere else.” I felt the disconnection and turned to Alex. “Let’s go check on the town. I need to see if he left any surprises when we were fighting that... Thing.”
Alex chuckled, “Aye...”
We ran back into town and Amy was fighting off another one of those things until it had a hole pierce through it by a blast of silver. She slumped onto the ground and sighed as it’s body disintegrated. “Damn that thing was annoying.”
I ran up to her and helped her up. “Is everyone alright.”
She grinned and flexed her arm. “Yep. They barricaded themselves into the barn while I took on this son of a bitch.” She winced as she took a step forward. “Damn thing bit my leg good though.”
I looked at her leg and noticed the large gash that ran clean through. I helped her stand and draped her arm across my shoulder. “I’d be best to stay off that.” I looked over to Alex. “Hey! Got another one of those bananas?”
“Yeah,” He pulled one out, “Here, eat up.”
I caught the banana as it flew over to us and handed it to Amy. She stared at it before turning to me. “I’m not eating that...” I just stared back for a while until she relented and took the fruit. She grumbled obscenities at me as she ate.
She winced as the tendons in her leg healed themselves. “Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, this hurts like hell...”
I smiled. “Try having it heal your entire lower half.”
Alex sighed, “Well... The moment has passed, back to work!”
I turned to him and nodded. We scoured the town and couldn’t find any more of the Void Terrors roaming. “I think they’re gone. For now, at least.”
Amy hopped on her leg and kicked it around. “Aaah that’s better.” I looked at her with a raised brow. “What? You wouldn’t let me walk on it.” I sighed and turned to the orchard.
“Let’s just get the rest of the town.” I headed over to the barn and knocked on the door. Braeburn, of all ponies, stuck his head out after five minutes. “Hey there Brae! It’s good to see you again!”
He perked up at the sight of me and smiled. “James! Where have ya been?”
I shrugged “Eh, I got here yesterday and all kinds of crazy happened. The question is, where were you?”
He nodded “Ah was workin in the barn mosta the day.” Well that explains that... Thank god he didn’t see... well, me yesterday.
Alex nodded at Braeburn, “Hello.”
Braeburn looked at him and smiled. “Well Howdy there stranger!” He grabbed Alex’s hand and gave him a vigorous shake. “Name’s Braeburn! Mind introducing yerself?”
“The name’s Alexander Harris.”
Braeburn nodded and kept smiling. “Well then Mr. Harris, Welcome to Appleloosa!”
I chuckled a bit to draw Braeburn’s attention. “It’s a bit late for that. He came here with me.” I looked over to Amy. “Though I’m pretty sure you’ve already met my sister Amy.”
He seemed surprised for a moment. “She’s your sister?” If I had a dollar...
I sighed and rubbed the bridge of my nose. “Yes, she is.”
He started to smile again as he laughed. “Well ain’t that somethin’? Ya got family here now!”
Alex smirked, “Well... He suddenly reminds me of Pinkie.”
Braeburn grinned. “Ya know Pinkie? How’s she been?”
He blinked, “Eh, she’s fine. Just been breaking the laws of physics.”
Braeburn laughed. “Yeah, that sounds like her. She sure is somethin’.”
Alex blinked before smirking, “Sounds like someone has a crush~”
Braeburn looked past him and seemed to be just content with looking at the sunset. Wow, it’s that late already? “Ah sure do...”
Alex smiled, “Glad to hear that.”
I looked into the barn and saw the rest of the town staring at us impatiently. “Uh, guys. Maybe we should move this conversation elsewhere.”
Braeburn blinked before blushing slightly. “Eh heh, yer probably right...” He stepped out of the doorway and let it open for the rest of the town.
Alex blinked, “Well... That’s a lot of people.”
I turned to him and grinned. “Helps to have an extra-large barn. Repairs are expensive, but it works as one excellent shelter.” I walked into the barn and looked around. “Seems bigger on the inside than it does on the out.”
Amy walked in and looked up. “You’re right, it does.” She turned towards me. “Sure this isn’t the Tardis?”
I fell over laughing as she stared at me confused. “If it was, I would have used it by now!”
Alex grinned, “Ah ah ah, spoilers.” We just stared at him for a moment until I continued laughing.
“I swear Alex, If any ‘Timey Wimey’ stuff happens I’m blaming you.”
He shrugged, “Eh... Good enough for me.”
The rest of the day was bland. Mostly just me entertaining some of the kids and showing Amy around. Alex left early on saying “I must go now... my planet needs me.” This made Amy facepalm but got a good laugh from the kids.
At least until he flew away on a manticore, then everyone was freaking out a bit. Why don’t I have one of those.
Once the sun had set and most of the ponies were asleep, Amy and I headed back to Appleslice’s house and I got stuck with the couch again. I yawned and thought about all that’s happened on this ONE trip away from home.
What a crazy world full of crazier people. And ponies, can’t forget the ponies.
~Meanwhile~
Hamlet floated in the dull gray realm as he watched the universe from afar. “All is going according to plan. The seeds have been planted, and now all~ I have, to do, is wait!”
His laughter echoed through the abyss as he vanished from sight, his presence appearing for a split second as he entered into another world.
