To the Dogs

Chapters

Prologue
Chapter 1: Intrusion
Chapter 2: Guardian
Chapter 3: Rebirth
Chapter 4: Tribulation
Chapter 5: Departure
Chapter 6: Recompense
Chapter 7: Regret
Chapter 9: Euphoria
Chapter 10: Requiem
Chapter 11: Echoes
Chapter 8: Conjunction
Turning of a Page

Prologue

To the Dogs
By Joseph Furzfänger

This story is for my Special Somepony.

Prologue
I remember that fateful summer morning. It feels as though it happened only a short time ago, but I know too well that day has long since passed. It seems that the night waits for nopony, not even me. My time here runs short, as the lights around begin to fade.

I am going to miss watching the warm, amber sunsets disappear over the vast Equestrian plains. Such delicate memories echo through these beautiful mountains of ours. Never will our stories forsake these lands. Forever shall our love fly upon the eastern breeze.

Suddenly, the front door is met with a gentle knocking.

"Come in.", chokes the sickly unicorn.

"Good evening, daddy.", greets the yellow pegasus.

The unicorn rustles in his chair. "Hey there sweet pea. Come to see your old man?"

The pegasus slowly approaches the stationary stallion. "Oh, I've missed you so much. I've brought you some tasty things from Ponyville.", whispered the kind, young mare.

"Oh, no thank you princess. I'm not very hungry tonight.", breathes the elderly stallion.

His daughter shoots a concerned look. "Are you sure?"

The unicorn gave a weak chuckle. "I'm sure, sweetie. I'm sure.", he says, stroking her pink mane. "Come and have a seat next to me Fluttershy."

"Is something wrong, dad?", asks Fluttershy. "Can I get you anything?"

"I just wanna talk to you, sugar.", says the father. "I've been thinking about your Papa."

The pegasus immediately freezes in her seat, unable to form a complete response. "Y-yeah?", she squeaks.

There was a brief moment of silence that overtook the room, which was eventually interrupted by the unicorn. "I remember the day we found you all alone.", says the old pony. "Once your Papa saw you all by yourself in that vacant field, you were coming home with us."

"That was the happiest day of my life.", giggles the pegasus at the sweet memory. "I'm not sure what I would have done if you hadn't shown up."

"Well, I'm glad we did." The stallion smiles at his little filly. "Did I ever tell you about how I met your father?"

Fluttershy grins meekly. "Well, I think you told me one time... But I was really little."

"Is that so?", muttered the unicorn. "Guess I need to tell it again."

The pegasus nuzzles her father. "Mhmm."

The elderly pony clears his throat and begins, "I remember that fateful summer morning..."

Chapter 1: Intrusion

Chapter 1: Intrusion
Back when I was a naive, young lad, I lived with my mother and my sister in Ponyville. I'd never gotten to meet my father, who was killed in a dreadful flying accident when I was just a little foal. Once I graduated from school, I began to wonder why I hadn't obtained my cutie mark yet. For two whole years I walked around town with a blank flank. The bullies in town were relentless, and I began to enter a wave of deep depression.

One day, I had finally taken all I could stand. I decided to leave Ponyville behind me, and live the life of a frontier pony. After several difficult goodbyes, I took my luggage and hopped onto a westbound freight train. I went for miles, past many forests and lakes. I stayed on board until the train had to make an emergency stop in the Whitetail Woods. It was then that my moment had come. I knew in my heart that this was going to be my destiny.

For once in my life, I was free. I had escaped the bonds of modernity. No more cities, no more roads, and certainly no more bullies. It was just me and the forest. There was nopony in sight for miles around. It was then that realization kicked in. My life was now in my own hooves. I had nopony to look out for me, nopony to care for me. The only companions I had were what Celestia had given to ponykind, the trees and the animals.

After the first few months, I had built my own slice of heaven. I had a toasty, wooden cabin, a flourishing garden, and all of the trees I would ever need. It was just what I had been looking for, a place to call my own. At that moment, it seemed as if nothing could ever go wrong. The best part was that I had finally gotten my cutie mark, a small hatchet. Life was perfect.

After the first year went by, however, things began to change. I began to miss my mother, my sister, and Ponyville. I knew that I couldn't go back, but after the homesickness began to set in my heart started to ache. Winter was coming.

I had an ample supply of firewood ready for the big freeze. I'd been stocking up all throughout the fall in preparation for it. However, no matter how much wood I burned, it never seemed to thaw the bitterness I felt within my heart. I felt so alone that December. I remember wondering about what my family was doing on Hearth's Warming Eve. I felt so guilty for leaving them behind. It seemed that no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't shake the empty feeling I had inside.

I recall of one night in particular that was especially bad. It was in the middle of January, and there was a massive blizzard that covered the land. Thick blankets of snow painted the landscape, and the naked trees stood lifeless under uncaring sheets of ice. I remember sitting down in this very chair, staring into the the red, glowing embers of the dancing blaze. That night, I cried myself to sleep right by the fireplace. It seems, however, that my despair was determined to follow me into my slumber. I was haunted by many nightmares that night, dreams of loss and suffering. I can think of one specifically that stood out above the rest. It was in this dream that I saw my mother and sister sobbing frantically, as our old house was engulfed by monstrous flames. I will never forget the sorrow and terror I saw in their eyes that night.

It was dark the following morning. There was no sun, and there were no birds singing. There was nothing but a deathly silence consuming the mountainside. As I walked through the skeletal forest, I noticed a trail of rather large paw prints. My initial thoughts were of ravenous timberwolves rummaging for whatever scraps of meat they could find. With fears of carnivorous beasts prowling for fresh prey, I soon began to panic and gallop back towards the cabin.

Once I was inside, I began to relax a little bit. The fears of timberwolves quickly evaded me, but were soon replaced by a disturbing realization. There was a very large trail of water leading over to the lit fireplace. As I slowly tilted my head towards the flames, my mouth widened in terror. Laying on the floor was the biggest canine I had ever laid my eyes on. My first thought was to run, but I soon realized that there was no place for me to run to. The beast was inside of my house, and I had to defend it.

Using my magic, I picked up the closest axe I could find. I silently made my way over to the sleeping creature. His thick grey fur was soaking wet. It was as if he'd managed to fall into a pond or something. As innocent as he seemed resting on my floor, I knew in my heart that letting him awaken was a great risk to my own safety. I then fired myself up, as I slowly drew back the sharp, steel blade. At that moment, the dog's eyes opened in a flash. I froze in terror, as the large, orange eyes looked up at me. Before I could make any movement, he made a desperate sprint out the door, into the cold wasteland. I then felt terribly guilty, seeing as the dog obviously had no intentions of malice. He just wanted to shield himself from the outside. Without thinking, I made mad dash after the poor mutt, dropping my axe on the floor.

"Hey!", I screamed. "Please come back! I don't mean you any harm!" There was no response. I then realized that I had scared him more than he'd scared me. This made me feel even more guilty. "Hey!", I shouted again. "I didn't mean to scare you!"

After several attempts at trying to call the dog back, I eventually gave up and started to return home. Karma, it would seem, had it out for me at that moment. The last thing I can remember, was sliding on a large patch of ice into a tree.

When I finally woke up, I found that I was laying in my own bed. Had it all been a dream? Was the dog just another one of my hideous nightmares? It was then that I heard four words I would never forget.

"Is little pony okay?"

Chapter 2: Guardian

Chapter 2: Guardian
An eternity seemed to pass between the two of us, as we awkwardly stared back at one another. I remember looking into those massive, pumpkin eyes. It was as if a wild inferno was blazing within the beast's large skull. His focused gaze seemed enchanting, as it singed my very soul. I strained to push myself away from the dog, but something was wrong. I couldn't feel my back legs. Upon noticing the sudden lack of control, I began to panic.

"W-what did you do to my legs?", I asked him nervously.

The dog said nothing.

"What happened to my legs!?", I screamed.

The dog pointed his large, black nose to the dusty, wooden floor. "You had big fall.", he muttered softly.

I struggled to recollect what had happened before I lost consciousness. I remembered running, then slipping. Then there was the tree... Of course. Upon analyzing what had happened, I soon came to a terrifying realization. I was paralyzed from the flank down. Tears began to well up in my eyes. I knew that my life as a frontier pony was over.

"Why?", I asked my canine savior. "Why did you help me?"

The dog gave me a compassionate glance. "Much too cold outside for little pony.", he warmly whispered in my ear.

Through muffled sobs, I managed to choke out three genuine words. "I'm so... sorry."

"Don't worry, little pony.", he spoke. "All water under bridge now."

I reached my hoof up to scratch my head, as I found that it was covered in several layers of bandages. There must have been a lot of blood. To think, the dog that I had just tried to slaughter not hours ago had saved my life. Never before had I felt so ignoble.

"Thank you...", I wheezed. "I can never repay you for the service you have done for me."

The furry visitor shot me a reassuring smile in return. "What your name, little pony?", he sweetly asked.

"Ebony...", I told him. "Ebony Hack."

He pulled the covers over my exposed, wounded body. "My name Scrape.", he barked. "Scrape... the Diamond Dog."

It was at this moment, that I knew that I had found a new friend. Not just any friend, mind you, but a friend that comes along once in a lifetime. For the first time in so many moons, I didn't feel lonely at all.

"How feel you?", he asked me.

As painful as the gashes were, they could not mask the joy which was now alive within me. "I've seen better days.", I snickered at him.

Despite my positive inflection, he still seemed to show great concern for me. "Does little pony need anything?", he asked.

His caring and nurturing actions were so uplifting to me. So long had I yearned for the compassion of another. My bitter loneliness seemed to disappear more and more while I was in the presence of this heroic canine.

"You can stay here as long as you want.", I offered to him. "It's the least that I can do."

He then began to wag his tail energetically. "I will take good care of you, Mr. Pony."

I chuckled at the dog's kind remark. "Please... Call me Ebony."

I felt a large, warm paw grace my shoulder. "As you wish... Ebony."

Despite the tragedy which had just befallen onto me, I found myself unable to lament the great loss. I had found something which I had longed for my entire life...

A friend.

Many days and nights passed, and my injuries slowly began to mend. However, I was still unable to use my back legs. I felt as though I would never travel again. Fortunately, I had a new Watchdog to look out for me.

"Scrape...", I began. "How come you're all the way out here by yourself?"

My large companion then answered my question in a rather solemn tone. "My pack left me behind.", he uttered monotonously.

"How come?", I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me.

"It is long story.", he whimpered.

I could tell that there was something really troubling him. "Do you wanna talk about it?", I asked him.

There was a long and awkward silence which filled the room. It then became clear that he was hiding something very personal from me, something very painful. He seemed to be trying to form words to make a response, but didn't have the courage to tell me. I desperately wanted to help him cope with whatever it was, but I felt it wasn't really my place to push the question any further.

"I'm sorry Scrape...", I apologized. "You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to."

He then carefully hopped up into the bed beside me, and nuzzled me with his snout. I placed a hoof atop his head, stroking his thick, drab coat.

"I tell you later.", he sincerely whispered.

I knew in my heart from that moment on that we both needed each other. It was no mere accident that our paths intertwined that day. There was something dark lurking in this poor dog's past, and it was up to me to free him from it. I knew what I had to do.

This was my destiny.

Chapter 3: Rebirth

Chapter 3: Rebirth
Before long, the frozen cruelty of winter forsook the land. The trees shed their frosted flesh, while a familiar chorus of birds covered the mountainside. After a grueling couple of months without any strength below my torso, the time had finally come tend to my garden. I would desperately need some help from my new, canine companion.

"Wake up, little Ebony.", said the gruff voice.

I slowly cracked my eyes open, receiving the expected sting from the sun's morning beams. "Good morning, pal.", I greeted drably.

"Ready for new day?", asked Scrape with his typical, keen smile.

The exhaustion of my sleepless night still had a firm grasp on my groggy mind. "Of course, dear friend.", I mutter. "Of course..."

"How about bath?", he asked, in his deep, mellow tone.

My face reddened upon hearing this question. Although the two of us had grown very close to one another, I was still very shy when it came to such things. Reluctantly, I nodded my head.

In a flash, I found myself being hosted up in the dog's large, furry arms. My limp, skinny legs dangled lifelessly as we both entered the washroom. Unlike myself, Scrape seemed to show no embarrassment when it came to helping me bathe. In fact, he seemed to enjoy every part of taking care of me.

"How was sleep?", he inquired, as he gently lowered my flank into the warm, soapy water.

"It was alright.", I lied.

Unsurprisingly, he sensed the illegitimacy of my answer. "I understand your pain, little pony.", he breathed sympathetically.

"No, no!", I barked. "I'm... I'm fine." I turned my gaze downward.

There was a brief moment of silence, as I soaked in the small, wooden tub. I was about to apologize for my outburst, but before I could I was graced by the feeling of a strong, leathery paw running through my mane. I wanted to ask him to stop, but the tenderness of this dog's touch was too rapturous.

My fuzzy masseuse leaned in next to my ear. "Feel good?", he whispered with a softhearted woof.

My face is now as red as the glowing embers of a scorching campfire. "Y-yes.", I squeaked awkwardly. Never before had I experienced anything like this. I knew that the two of us had grown close over the winter, but never did I expect these sort of feelings to emerge.

Upon noticing my bashfulness toward the situation, he abruptly stopped rubbing my scalp. "Uh... sorry...", he whimpered.

We spoke very little towards each other that day. Although disturbed by his invasive actions, I found them quite pleasing. After that day I found the two of us bonding closer and closer to one another. It was as if we were brothers, but it seemed as if it were so much more. Never had I been so reliant on another in my life. Never had I cared for somepony this much.

As the weeks passed, spring transformed into summer. Celestia's sweltering light burned brightly overhead. I'd grown more accustomed to my condition, and soon felt safer leaving the house. Of course, my robust caretaker was always there to lend a paw whenever I needed it. If I ever needed to go somewhere, he would carry me. If there was ever any danger, he would protect me. The two of us had grown so close to each other. I began to wonder if the time was right to dig a little deeper into my buddy's hidden past. One afternoon, I finally decided to go for the gold.

"Hey Scrape...", I began. "Mind if I ask you a question."

"Shoot!", he interjected, eager to hear what I had to say.

I grew nervous, as I finally spilled the beans. "W-why did your pack leave you before you met me?"

To my surprise, he gave no reaction but a bleak sigh. "If I must...", he yelped regretfully.

He seemed very reluctant to share his tale with me. My mind began to ponder what he could have done. Did he kill somepony? Did he screw something up? The suspense was clawing at my insides, lusting to hear what this poor animal had to tell me.

"I was not like other dogs.", he somberly whined. "Ever since I was puppy, I was different."

My curiosity had now reached a boiling point. This was the answer which I had been waiting to hear for so long.

He gazed deeply into my eyes, with the most innocent face masking his crumbling secrets. "Please do not laugh...", he whimpered.

"I won't laugh pal, I promise.", I whispered compassionately.

His face grew terribly forlorn, as the dark enigma unfolded. "I liked... other males.", he buried his long snout deep into his big paws. He then began to sob softly.

Somehow, I had seen this answer coming. I had absolutely no problem with such things, as I myself had noticed similar feelings within myself. The truth had been released. I now knew what had haunted my companion for all this time. Finally, I could give back to him the same comfort that he had shown me.

I placed both hooves around his thick, furry neck. "Please don't cry.", I comforted, as I stroked his cushy back. "I know what it's like to be hurt."

Through his river of tears he choked four climactic words, "Please don't leave me."

At this point, I too was dripping from my eyes. "I would never leave you.", I breathed compassionately.

The two of us embraced for what seemed like hours that day. I will never forget how fulfilling it felt, as I was smashed between those mighty paws of steel. From that moment onward, Scrape and I became closer than anypony I had ever known. I felt as if all the demons of my past had fled forever.

That was before the letter came...

Chapter 4: Tribulation

Chapter 4: Tribulation
The yellow pegasus quickly raises her ears in response to the wailing tea pot over the blazing fire. "Oh, the tea's ready.", she squeaks. "I'll get it."

The drab, elderly unicorn rests his eyes as his daughter fixes the beverages. "Thank you sweet pea.", he mumbles.

Within a few seconds, Fluttershy returns with a pot full of piping hot tea. "Here you go, daddy.", squeaks the chipper pegasus.

"Thank you, pumpkin.", muttered the stationary unicorn.

The bright mare gently rests her flank down in the chair next to her father's. "What was in the letter daddy?", she innocently questions.

There is a long silence, as the stallion struggles to find words to send to his daughter. "W-well...", he began.

The sky was a dreadful shade of grey that windy Sunday morning. It seemed no different than any other morning, sitting with your Papa. With no idea of the terrible news which was about to be unfolded, I laid lazily upon his lap, as I received one of his ecstatic back massages.

Suddenly, there was a knocking upon the door. It was a very rare occurrence for me to get visitors. In fact, your Papa was the only one I'd met throughout the entirety of my stay.

"I go get it.", he barked.

After making his way over to the front door, he through it open with one of his mighty paws. Standing outside was a wall-eyed mailmare. She seemed unsurprised at the grey canine towering above her. With no hesitation, she reached into her mailbag and pulled out a plain envelope.

"I brought you a letter!", she chimed merrily.

"Thank you.", responded Scrape, slowly pushing the wooden door shut. He then made his way over to me with the mysterious letter.

Using my magic, I gently pulled the paper from his grip. "I wonder what it could be.", I said.

It was then that I noticed that it was marked with the royal stamp of Celestia herself. I began to wonder to myself what Canterlot would have wanted with me. Fears of being drafted into the Royal Guard invaded my head. The suspense of the unknown contents were eating at my insides. *rip* I tore the envelope open with my horn. Pulling out the papyrus sheet from within, I began to read.

Dearest Ebony Hack,

I regret to bring you this disheartening news.

Last night, your mother passed away in her sleep.
Her funeral is to be held in Ponyville Cemetery, on the 27th of September.
My heart goes out to you in these most troubling times, and you have my utmost sympathy.

Sincerely,

Princess Celestia

The world around me vanished in an instant. Every spark of joy and warmth I had once known had abruptly fallen to shadow. I was but a cold, emotionless husk. That was until the tears came. I found myself precipitating heavily into my large partner's furry arms.

"I am so sorry.", he whimpered, as he delicately stroked my mane. "It is okay to cry, little Ebony."

There was no response to which I could give to my faithful companion. All I could release were despairing squeaks of hopelessness. My dearest mother was gone, and I never even got to say goodbye. Life seemed so cruel.

It was then that Scrape hoisted me up in his monstrous arms, cradling me next to his pounding heart. "I know what it is like to lose family.", he whispered softly into my ear.

After several minutes of uncontrollable tears, I finally regained my composure. "W-why did this have to happen?", I wheezed. "Why couldn't I have been there?"

It was then that Scrape looked deeply into my red, dripping eyes with the strongest empathy I had ever seen. "Sometimes...", he began. "Life take away what we love most."

I wrapped my hooves around his neck. "I love you, Scrape.", I yelped. "You're the best friend I've ever had."

My face was then met with a comforting lick. "I love you too, little pony.", he cooed, as he nuzzled my face with his.

After a our lengthy embrace, my thoughts turned to the funeral. "Oh my gosh...", I sighed.

Scrape cocked his dead puzzled. "What?", he muttered.

"How am I going to get to Ponyville like this?", I said, pointing to my limp back legs.

A broad smile stretched across my muscly friend's fuzzy face. "I take you to little pony town.", he charmingly replied.

I gave no audible response to the dog's wonderful proposal. All I had to answer with was another warm hug.

He crushed me upon his broad chest. "You are welcome, little pony."

Chapter 5: Departure

Chapter 5: Departure
The next morning, the two of us set out on our journey to Ponyville. Given the circumstances of my inability to walk, Scrape had to carry the weight of everything. This included me and all of our supplies. I really felt bad for the poor guy. Although he had the muscles, it was an awful lot of baggage to support. Perhaps the worst part of it was the fact that I could do so little without my legs.

"Is it comfortable?", barked the dog, referring to me resting upon his broad, furry shoulders.

Nodding viciously, I squeaked, "Oh yes, of course."

After we reached the borders of the Whitetail Woods we came to the rickety tracks of the Equestrian Southwest. It was hard to believe that a whole year had come and gone since I last saw such works of ponykind. Not so distant memories overcame me, as the painful thoughts of the world I left behind rattled around in my skull. It was going to be a very long day.

"Maybe we catch train back to pony town.", suggested my loyal counterpart.

"I don't think so.", I sighed. "This line only travels westward."

Scrape then lowered his head, whimpering in disappointment. Then it hit me. He was going to have to walk the both of us all the way to Ponyville.This was a task far too demanding for just one dog, especially one as sensitive as him. The poor mutt was giving his all for me.

I then scratched his fuzzy head and whispered into his ear, "You don't have to push yourself too hard. We've got plenty of time to get there."

"Aye.", he replied. "Thank you, pony."

I found myself staring up into the pale, grey mass that was the sky. It seemed as if all the emotions which once rested within me had hovered away, filling the atmosphere with my dark, melancholy lamenting. What I had learned not even a day ago hung menacingly over my head. I loved my mother very much. In times of my loneliness and despair, she had been the only one there to comfort me. I remember how she used to tell me that life would soon get much better for me. Seemed as if her predictions for my future were turning out to be quite inaccurate. During the past year I'd lost both my legs and my mother. My life was at the lowest point it had ever been.

There was, however, something marvelous I gained. Not only did I realize my ability to take care of another, but I also made the first real friend I had ever known. Although he was not a pony, Scrape was the kindest creature I had ever met. Even with his unrefined literary skills, he was also surprisingly intelligent. Despite the crippling losses I had endured over the past four seasons, I felt like the hole within my heart was finally filled.

I had the future to look to.

Author's note:
Sorry for a short chapter after such a long wait. I've been going through quite a lot here lately. Please bear with me, as these struggles are helping mold this story.

Chapter 6: Recompense

Chapter 6: Recompense
The afternoon sun struggled desperately to break the mournful barriers of clouds, to no avail. As we walked along the winding, rusted rails hunger began to set in, forcing us to rest briefly in a nearby field. Unlike the sky above, the lively summer grass illuminated the rolling landscape. The emerald trees complemented their flowing carpet below. It was a truly beautiful sight.

"You like daisy sandvich?", Scape kindly asked.

I gave him a powerful smile, "It's delicious. Thank you."

In response to my satisfaction the gentle hound gave me a softhearted grin, which wrinkled his face up tight as tight as a dragon's claw. I had found his humorous facial features to be quite adorable myself.

The two of us sat there blissfully enjoying our tasty meals, me with my sandwich and him with a tender piece of venison. At first the idea of consuming another being disturbed me greatly, but then I gave it more thought. He had no choice in how he was born. It was only in his nature to eat meat. To judge him for such a thing just seemed wrong to me.

Once we had finished eating, Scrape placed all of our goods back into their bags. "Ready to move?", the dog asked me smoothly.

"As ready as I'll ever be.", I chimed in return.

With one swift swing of his paw, I found myself resting safely over his grey, furry shoulder. Strong as an ox, this mighty canine was. As we started off down the tracks, I wrapped my hooves securely around his muscular neck. He said nothing to me in response, but I did notice something as I peered down his spine. His long, bushy tail was swaying from left to right joyfully. I giggled to myself merrily at the sight.

As dusk began to fall, so did the rain. It started out as a slight drizzle, nothing more than a mist. The darker the land around us grew, however, the harder the precipitation seemed to pour. On the horizon a brief flash in the heavens caught my eye. An immense storm was coming.

"We must find shelter.", my shivering friend barked.

"Alright.", I fired back.

Desperate to find a place to escape the bone-chilling rain, we took shelter in a little hole dug into the side of a nearby cliff. We huddled together closely against its cold rocky face. As the water dripped from the threshold before us we curled up by each other comfortably. The thunder outside rumbled monstrously, as icy rain hammered the side of the cliff relentlessly. All seemed well in our small, limestone burrow.

Little did we know, we were not the only ones who looked to seek shelter in that cave. An eerie wail suddenly pierced through the booms and crackles of the massive storm. In unison our ears perked up in horror, as we heard the terrifying howls of a pack of ravenous timberwolves. The beasts crept slowly into our sanctuary; their wooden teeth whittled razor-sharp by the unnatural malice of the Everfree Forest. Overcome by fear, I clutched Scrape's thick torso desperately.

"Oh sweet Celestia...", I muttered under my breath. "Save us."

In a flash, I felt the body of my furry companion being torn from my hooves. I blindly swung my front hooves in front of me, attempting to ward off any of the snarling intruders that I could. To my surprise, I found that there were none in front of me. I looked to the entrance of the cavern and witnessed my faithful companion splintering timberwolves apart with his bare paws. Never had I seen a display of such bravery from anypony before.

"Get away from pony!", barked Scrape as he sent one of the beasts falling into a ravine on the oppose side of the tracks.

As the last of the wolves ran to evade the juggernaut's bulky paws, he released a ghostly howl so loud it could be heard by the Mare in the Moon herself. This was a side of him I had not seen before. The calm, gentle hound I had grown to know had been replaced by a coldblooded killing machine.

At that moment a rogue bolt of lightning struck the rock above us, sending debris crashing down the slippery mountainside. To my horror, a shower of large stones struck the poor dog to the ground. A quick jolt of energy sent me crawling swiftly to the aid of my collapsed friend. Before anything, I checked his vitals. His heart was beating as strongly as ever. As I began to pull him away from the ledge, I discovered something which instantly caused my heart to sink. A small boulder had fallen atop his left paw, crushing it completely.

"Oh Scrape...", I whispered to the unconscious canine.

Desperately trying to push the rock off of my best friend's forearm, tears dripped down my rain-soaked snout. After several attempts I gave up all hope of moving the massive stone. I knew that I could not let him awaken to such a gut-wrenching sight, so I began to formulate ideas about what to do.

Interrupting my concentration was a sound that turned my skin cold. Through the pitter-patter of the frigid rain, I heard the mane-raising whistle of the Equestrian Southwest.

"Oh buck...", I muttered.

I looked down the line to see the powerful engine charging up the tracks. The clock was ticking quickly, as my worst fears had now become a reality. I had to surgically remove my partner's paw. Using my magic, I pulled the saddlebag up to my side. Before I could think I had removed my fully sharpened hatchet. Trembling in terror for what I was about to do I leaned in close to my friend.

"Please forgive me for this.", I choked.

The blade sank deep into the fleshy forearm. Blood now covered the steel head of the hatchet. In a rhythmic set of movement, I pounded further into the shattered appendage. With every swing came a hideous sound of cracking bone, a poison that will always ring in my ears. After what seemed like forever, I finally heard that sound of the the metal blade clashing with the rail. The paw was off, and blood was everywhere. I tugged with all of my strength, inching the bloody mutt further and further away from the line of fire. Within moments after the two of us were out of the way, the train roared past the mouth of the cave.

Although the immediate danger had drifted away, my companion's arm still bled profusely. I had to halt the bleeding. I began to dig through the bag for medical supplies, bandages or gauze. The search was unsuccessful. There was nothing I could wrap the wound in.

I began to lose all hope, as I began to feel extremely disorientated. As I fell upon my back, I was greeted with a distant memory of my childhood. The world around me began to fade, as I was engulfed by the echoes of my past. I saw my mother standing before me, with a smile covering her face.

"Let me see your arm, my dear.", she spoke gently.

I raised my hoof in compliance. A deep cut was present, leaking blood as I wept. It was then that her horn gave off a distinct amber glow, one that I'll never soon forget. To my surprise I watched as the skin around the wound began to close, leaving nothing but a thick scar.

"Now you be more careful next time young man.", she said compassionately, as the room began to distort back into the darkness of reality.

I now knew what I had to do. Although I'd never attempted any magic of this caliper, I felt as if there was a driving force that gave me the power. I held the bloody stub within my hooves, pointing my horn at the exposed bone. The room was bathed in a familiar orange glow. I looked up to see what had become of my partner's injury. A thick layer of fuzzy flesh now covered the wound. The bleeding had stopped.

I held my large friend delicately in my hooves, as I stroked the top of his furry head. I looked outside to see that the storm had passed, leaving the large, pale moon to rest in the sky.

"Thank you mom."

Chapter 7: Regret

Chapter 7: Regret
"T-that's how Papa lost his paw?!", squeaks Fluttershy frantically.

"Indeed it is, pumpkin.", returns the sickly unicorn. "I felt so guilty after doing that to him." Tears now filling his eyes.

"You only did what you had to, daddy.", says the meek pegasus as she wraps her gentle hooves around her father's neck. "Please don't cry."

"I'm sorry, my dear.", he mutters faintly. "I just miss your papa so much."

"There, there...", coos Fluttershy calmly. "He's still watching over us."

The unicorn gently closes his eyes, pointing his gaze towards the cold, wooden floor. A somber nuance of silence briefly shadows the room. The elderly pony inhales deeply, before continuing to release the ghosts of the past.

"I remember waking up that next morning..."

It was very foggy. The sun peaked over the mist, bathing the landscape in a deep, orange glow. The memories of the night before still clung desperately to my heart. I was afraid of what my poor companion would think of my evasive maneuver. Would he be angry? Would he be sad? The thoughts of such rejection from my only friend tormented my soul. Suddenly, I realized that he was nowhere in sight. My eyes darted around the cave, finding no trace of my dear canine friend.

"Oh Scrape...", I whimpered to myself. "I'm so sorry."

I began to sob to myself, burying my face into my quivering hooves. I had driven my only friend away from me. I was cold, crippled, and lonely in the Equestrian wilderness. At that moment, I gave up all thoughts of living. My life seemed meaningless. My heart felt empty. I had ruined the life of the only one who ever cared for me. I was not even fit to be a part of this world. I knew in my heart what had to be done.

I crawled slowly out of the cavern, eyes pulsating red from the salty tears I was producing. My mind began to wonder for a moment. How should I do it?, I thought to myself. Waiting for the train to come would take to long, and I had grown very impatient with existing. Plus, I wouldn't want to make life hard for the poor engineer pony driving it. My gaze turned to the cliff before me. Such a long way down, I thought to myself. Indeed, it was a stunningly long drop. On top of that, I was terrified of heights. Breathing a sigh of despair, I came to realize that this was the only way. I was going to miss the beauty in my beloved kingdom. Although I had chosen to take a darker path, I knew that I was leaving a blissful future behind. Without my mother or friend though, I saw not the point of continuing. I decided to jump.

I inhaled deeply, peering over the rocky ledge. In my mind, there was no going back. This was my new destiny. I was to fall into the shadow of the night. With one final look at the enchanting horizon in the distance, I pulled myself over the rugged edge. Celestia forgive me, I thought to myself as I closed my eyes one last time.

Seconds went by, as I expected to hit the ground at any moment. However, I never recalled falling to feel so stationary. Wondering why I was still alive, I flashed open my eyes. To my surprise, the ground had grown no closer to my body. Had time stopped? Was this some sort of divine intervention? I tilted my head to see what was keeping me from falling to my demise. It was then that I saw a familiar grey paw holding onto one of my lifeless back legs.

"I... I...", I mumbled aimlessly.

The burly mutt pulled me back to safety, cradling me in his warm, fuzzy arms. My tears dripped upon his thick coat. My mind was buzzing now with both relief and regret. I now had to explain to him why I was going to kill myself. I was so fearful that he would hate me for trying to take my own life. There was no easy way out of my predicament. I had to be completely honest.

"I'm... I'm so sorry...", I squeaked.

Unexpectedly, my face was met with a heartwarming nuzzle. "It is okay, little pony. You are safe now.", cooed my sweet savior.

His incomplete arm caught my eye, pushing me even more so into my sobbing fit. "Please forgive me.", I moaned.

At that moment, I heard the most beautiful thing that had ever graced my ears.

Hush now; Quiet now
It's time to lay your sleepy head
Hush now; Quiet now
It's time to go to bed

Drifting off to sleep
Leave exciting days behind you
Drifting off to sleep
Let the joy of daylight find you

Hush now; Quiet now
It's time to lay your sleepy head
Hush now; Quiet now
It's time to go to bed

My heartbeat slowed, as my nerves grew calm. I felt as if all the sorrow and pain which I carried before, had evaded me. I felt whole again.

"I love you, little Ebony.", he said, squeezing me tightly in his arms.

"I love you too, Scrape.", I beamed, as I returned the embrace.

Chapter 9: Euphoria

WARNING: Mild clop inbound.

Chapter 9: Euphoria
The yellow pegasus giggles like a school filly. "That is so sweet.", she chirps gaily.

"Your papa was quite the romantic.", chuckles the unicorn. "And such a wonderful masseuse."

"So um...", mumbles Fluttershy. "Did you two kiss each other that night?"

The elderly pony smirks upon hearing the question. "Oh yes, angel.", he snickered. "Your papa was a great kisser."

The mare whimpers, "Oh um... I wish I had a stallion to love and kiss."

The unicorn closes his eyes, relishing the memories of that romantic night so long ago.

"Oh Scrape...", sighed Ebony. "Please don't stop."

The hound complied, rubbing and pushing firmly into the unicorn's knotted shoulders. Ebony's mouth gaped open. Moans of pleasure poured from deep within his being.

"You like, little pony?", asked the muscular canine in a seductive tone. "It is hard with just one paw."

"Oh yes..", the stallion breathed. "You are so good at this."

With one quick jerk, the pony found himself lying upon his back. Two big orange eyes gazed directly into his own. For a moment, Ebony was certain that his heart had stopped beating. It was then that Scrape leaned in towards the pony's fuzzy muzzle, as their lips collided in the blue moonlight. The kiss was the most passionate feeling Ebony's little heart had ever been graced with, and it seemed to last forever. The stallion wrapped his front hooves around the beast, pulling mouth tighter to his own. To his surprise, Ebony found that his new coltfriend had forced his big, blue tongue into the pony's mouth. Once inside, Scrape's tongue danced merrily with Ebony's. As the excitement thickened, the duo's faces became quite flushed.

"H-hey Scrape?", Ebony asked in a jittery manner.

"Yes?", the canine responded.

"C-could I try something different?, the unicorn buzzed. "J-just for a little bit?"

"Of course, little pumpkin seed.", returned Scrape.

The pony then proceeded to pull himself onto his belly, as the mutt sat down puzzling at his little lover's intentions. Once Ebony had positioned himself accordingly, he gazed at his partner's back left paw. Licking his lips, he snatched it up. As Scrape's curiosity peaked, he found himself panting in ecstasy. The stallion's gentle hooves were massaging the tender flesh at the bottom of his sore paw.

"Oooo...", moaned the dog. "Is very good."

"So you like it?", Ebony squeaked with a grin.

"I love this.", barked the relaxed canine.

Then, without warning, Scrape felt a peculiar feeling on his sole. It felt wet and slippery. Upon looking down, he saw that the little unicorn was nibbling at his paw. Scrape wanted to ask what his little buddy was doing, but decided not to, for it felt so magnificent. By the time Ebony was finished, Scrape's face had grown as red as an apple.

"That feel good?", asked the wide-eyed unicorn.

"It was different...", the dog mumbled. "But very good."

"I'm glad you like it.", beamed the now blushing pony. "I was afraid you were going to think I was weird."

"Weird but cute.", Scrape teased. "Please continue." The dog wiggled his right paw in his companion's face.

Ebony lowered his eyelids, as his mouth curled into a kinky smile. With no words, the unicorn took up the exposed paw into his hooves. He began to play with each individual digit, giving each of then a light kiss.

"This is best feeling in world.", groaned the panting pup. "But so strange."

"I know...", Ebony sighed. "I'm a freak."

"You are my little freak now.", jested the grinning mutt, as he pulled his little partner up into his arms.

"You're the best coltfriend anypony could ever wish for!", squealed the pony, as he embraced his canine lover. "I love you, Scrape."

It was then that the two came together for one last kiss.

"Um... Daddy?", squeaks Fluttershy. "Are you alright?"

The unicorn chuckles aloud. "Never been better, sugar."

Author's note:
I apologize for my kinkiness. :3

Chapter 10: Requiem

Chapter 10: Requiem
The elderly unicorn sits stationary in his ragged recliner, as he stares intensely out the open window. Wind whistles through the budding trees, as an amber skyline flows across the wooded horizon. It will surely be nightfall soon.

"Daddy, can I get you anything?", asks the timid pegasus once more.

Silence rings from the old pony's lips. His gaze remains fixed on the setting of the blazing sun. A somber shadow seems to lurk in the little cabin, yet all was peaceful and well. Suddenly, a lone tear creeps from Ebony's closed eye. Running down his wrinkled cheek, it comes to rest upon the chair's faded fabric.

"D-daddy?", squeaks the yellow mare. "Are you alright?"

"Yes my little filly.", wheezes the stallion. "We are alright."

The mare tilts her head slightly. "What do you mean by 'we', daddy?", asks the now perplexed Fluttershy.

"Me and your papa, little pumpkin seed.", replies the elderly pony.

Now worried Fluttershy trots to her father's side, taking up his hoof into her's. His glassy stare peers solemnly into her sapphire eyes. Putting a hoof to his head Fluttershy notices that he has developed a high fever. Alarmed, the mare gallops into the kitchen. After a few brief moments of fumbling around in the cabinets the pegasus returns with a cold cup of water and a blanket.

"Sweetie, could you sit down for a second?", asks the shivering unicorn. "There is something that I've been meaning to show you for a long, long time."

"Yes, daddy?", whispers the gentle mare as she sits down in the rocking chair next to her Ebony.

The stallion takes in a deep breath, as he pulls a small leather book from the shelf across the room. The cover appears to have suffered some minor water damage. As the book slowly levitated into Fluttershy's delicate grasp.

"These stories are yours now, dearest.", says the tired stallion. "Please take good care of them."

"Oh daddy, of course I will.", responds Fluttershy as she wraps her father in her hooves.

"Thank you, sugar.", mumbles the pale unicorn.

Ebony lets loose a faint yawn. He turns his gaze outside once more, looking down upon the glowing fields of Equestria. The vigilant sun has almost sunken into the silhouette of the lonely mountainside. As the stars above begin to sparkle, the vibrant hues of the majestic sky fade into the mystic darkness of the night.

"I'm mighty tired sweetie.", begins the sickly stallion. "Perhaps I need some rest to rebuild my strength."

"Okay daddy, I'll leave you alone for a little bit.", returns the kind mare.

Ebony drops his sagging eyelids. "I love you, Fluttershy.", he whispers to his daughter.

"I love you too, daddy.", squeaks the gentle filly, kissing the unicorn on his wrinkled forehead.

As soon as she steps outside, Fluttershy holds up the tattered book. Curious as to what was inside, the pegasus delicately undoes the leather strap. It is at this moment that her heart flutters.

My dearest Fluttershy,

In this book lies the many adventures shared by your papa and I. I hope that our rich and happy memories will live on through the ink on these musty pages, for I know in my heart that you will share these stories with your own family.

I will be with your dearest papa soon, and I want you to always remember that I love you with all of my heart.

Hush now; Quiet now
It's time to lay your sleepy head
Hush now; Quiet now
It's time to go to bed

Drifting off to sleep
Leave exciting days behind you
Drifting off to sleep
Let the joy of daylight find you

Hush now; Quiet now
It's time to lay your sleepy head
Hush now; Quiet now
It's time to go to bed

Closing the book, Fluttershy drips several tears upon the stony, mountain soil. She sits on the rickety porch, staring intensely at the distant horizon. As the cool breeze blows through the pony's pink mane, a faint echo is heard;

An echo of a dog's mournful howl.

Chapter 11: Echoes

Chapter 11: Echoes
The service was short on that damp and gloomy Sunday morning. Tears fell in great numbers from the yellow mare's crystal blue eyes, only to be lost in the freshly settled ocean of dew.

"Fluttershy, if you need somepony to talk to, you know where to find me.", said Rainbow Dash with a warm embrace.

"Th-thank you... R-Rainbow Dash.", choked the pegasus through her sobs.

It has been two weeks since the passing of Ebony Hack. His once happy, little estate sits abandoned, blanketed in a thin veil of emerald green moss.

Within this melancholy vessel lies a lonely, tormented soul, forever separated from all she had come to love. Her gaze was fixed upon the tattered, red chair, as it whispers sweet memories of an innocent era. Fluttershy's large eyes no longer carry their vibrant blue sheen. All of the life and joy had been consumed by an emotionless pane of glass, suffocating all of the hope she once had. Although no longer falling, the mare's tears had left their burning marks down her pale, yellow cheeks.

Engulfed by her losses, Fluttershy knew not what to do with herself. Her family was gone and she had just been terminated from her job as a mailmare. Her thoughts had grown dark over the past couple of weeks. No more did she care for the beauty of the world.

Her forlorn mind begins to think of a way out. She turns her head to the medicine cabinet, which hangs open ajar. Remembering her father's pain medication, the pegasus silently makes her way into the empty kitchen. After pulling the bottle from its shelf, Fluttershy poured herself a large glass of water. She knew what she had to do. Surely, she would get to see both of her parents before the night was through.

She takes a deep breath before swallowing two of the small, white pills with a mouthful of water. Closing her eyes, Fluttershy begins to sob softly to herself. As she prepares to consume two more of the tablets, there is a noise that grabs her attention. Walking into the living room, she discovers that her father's old diary had fallen upon the floor. Immediately, she picks it up in her hooves. Never having read past the first page, she figures she may as well take a look inside.

December 31, 1371

Hello, future self, my name is Ebony Hack. I have decided to begin writing down my experiences so that you may remember them. It has been five months since I left my home in Ponyville, and I am really starting to miss everybody. I hope that this wasn't a big mistake.

January 22, 1372

Today was a depressing one. I awoke from a terrible dream this morning. I have been trying to forget about it, but I just cannot get these images out of my head. The loneliness has been doing me no favors either. I pray my days soon grow brighter.

January 30, 1372

My heart is growing weaker as these days pass on. The stinging pain of this isolation is eating away at my body. I miss my mother and sister so much, and this weather is unfit for anypony to travel in. I am so alone out here.

February 4, 1372

This bitterness festering inside me is growing stronger. I fear that I will not have the strength to make it through this winter. All hope has fled me. It's been snowing for the past seven days, and it is showing no signs of stopping. I hope that this agony ends soon.

February 6, 1372

I feel so ashamed. Last night, I made the somber attempt to take my own life. I had taken all that I could bear. I was going to hang myself in my bedroom. Just as I had prepared the rope, memories of my family in Ponyville flooded my mind. I could not stand to think of what my death would do to them. I know in my heart that I have made the right choice, but I don't want to do this anymore. I just want to go home.

February 8, 1372

Today, I woke up with the most dreadful headache. Failing to recollect how I had gotten into bed, I remembered hitting my head on the tree the day before. That was just after I found this dog lying on my living room floor. Instead of devouring me ,the beast has been caring for me. Even after I chased him out of my house with an axe, he came to my rescue. I am quite perplexed by all of the events that have taken place over the past 24 hours, but I will find out everything soon enough.

Also, I have yet to leave my bed. My body feels so weak.

February 9, 1372

It seems that my luck has run out entirely. Today, I have discovered that both of my back legs are completely crippled. This is very overwhelming to me, as I can no longer walk outside to gather firewood. In fact, I cannot really do anything at all. I am hopeful that this will only be temporary, but in the back of my mind I have some serious doubts.

I have also befriended my furry savior. Scrape is his name.

February 18, 1372

I am beginning to get used to my condition. Although being paraplegic is very difficult at times, it has brought me very close to my new companion, Scrape. It feels so strange to have somebody watching out for me. Back in Ponyville, nopony ever wanted to be my friend. Now I've got a dog whom I'd met only a few days ago watching over me. It feels so wonderful to have a friend be here for me. It looks as though living through all of my pain has paid off. I'm glad it didn't end on that dark, sleeting night. I now have a friend to share my future with.

P.S. I am quite fond of his muscular body, but I am too afraid to tell him so. I can only assume he would be disgusted at such a thing.

Fluttershy looks at the pill bottle in disgust, dropping it upon the hardwood floor. Both guilty and drowsy she makes her way to her father's bedroom, climbing into his bed. Only partially conscious, the mare's troubled thoughts turn to her parents' faces. They are smiling down upon her. Before sinking into a deep slumber, she knows in her heart that she made the right choice.

Chapter 8: Conjunction

Chapter 8: Conjunction
As the day passed on, the radiant aura of dusk devoured the landscape, wrapping everything in its orange veil. That day had been one of the most enlightening in my existence. I felt as if part of me had fallen to oblivion, only to be filled by something warmer. It was an unfamiliar feeling, but it seemed so pure and uplifting. The more I thought about it, the less insane it seemed. I had fallen in love with my best friend.

It was not out of the ordinary for a pony to develop feelings for someone of a different species at the time. However, to fall for somepony of the same gender was generally frowned upon. I had once feared rejection more than anything else. It was what drew me out of Ponyville just a year prior. Now though, nothing seemed more daunting than the bitter chill of loneliness. Its cold, gaunt hands filled me to the brim with sorrow. I had to make a big decision that night, one that would alter my life forever.

Once we had settled down to eat our supper, I decided to make my move. I drug myself up beside my companion, shivering with anxiety. As he reached into the bag to retrieve our meals, I began to pop the question.

"H-hey Scrape...", I squeaked meekly.

"Yes?", he returned as his ears jumped towards the newly visible stars.

At this point I was shaking uncontrollably with anticipation. As much as I tried to hide my fear, it was completely obvious that there was something that scared me.

"I've been...", I mumbled. "I've been thinking about something very important..."

The canine's fuzzy tail began to wag violently. He knew all too well what I was preparing to say. I could see it in his eyes. I blushed heavily, embarrassed by my failure to come out to him. Taking a deep breath, I charged myself up for the big question.

"I like you Scrape...", I stated plainly. "I like you a lot."

Before I could continue, I found myself bound in the confines of the dog's big, muscular arms. At that moment our hearts connected. We had become engulfed in the flames of love.

"W-would you be my coltfriend?", I finally asked.

"It would be my pleasure, little pony.", he cooed as he stroked my dark mane with his paw.

I fell asleep in his arms that night. Never before had I thought life could be so beautiful. Never before had I felt so complete.

Author's note:
I love you, my darling. <3

Turning of a Page

Hey there readers... Sorry if I've been letting this story sit incomplete for a long time now. The past few months have not been very easy for me, as I will briefly explain.

Around a month or so ago, my dearest lover and I split ways. It was heartbreaking to me, but I knew in my heart that it was the right choice. During the last stretch of our relationship came many complications and painful obstacles. The reason this story took such an impact from this was due to it being influenced entirely by my love for my boyfriend. The characters Scrape and Ebony were meant to symbolize the two of us being together.

As you can imagine, the fracture of my relationship made writing for this story next to impossible. It is with no regrets that I call the previous chapter 'The End', as it seemed a decent enough place to stop. Granted there was an entire romance plot between Fluttershy and another dog, but it just reminded me too much of my own burnt out match.

I am terribly sorry for abandoning another project of mine, but I really think it's time that I move on and accept that there is no going back. I thank you all who have read my story, and I hope that you will continue to look out for my future works.

Goodbye, my dearest Ebony. </3