Chosen Undead in Equestria

Chapters

From Lordran to..?
Ponyville, Sorcery, and A Puny Dragon.
Stuck in a Strange Land
Kindness in a pony form.
Holding Out for a Hero
Smoke, Blood, Fire, Courage
The Little Knight and a Taboo Word

From Lordran to..?

You've made your choice , and whether it'll ultimately be for good or ill, you can't say. But there's some small part in you that truly doesn't care. Bringing about the Age of Fire or the Age of Darkness, did either choice matter in the end? If you were to bring the light of Fire to man then what? Be a symbol like Gwyn? Be a hero of the people? And on the reverse. You cast all the world to the Darkness! Damn the world and everyone in it! Then what? Slink back into the shadows? Just fade away? You don't know. You simply did what you felt was right...

It was like Fate was pulling you along for the ride and didn't care for any petty objections. And at the end of that tumultuous and winding ride you found yourself here: The Kiln of the First Flame. You had cut a brutal swath through its protectors; the Black Knights. And after that you killed a deity. Gwyn...was that deity. The Lord of Cinder himself. The battle was...oddly quiet. No grand speeches, no declarations, no verbose threats. Just the sounds of swords clashing against one another in a dead world. Just you and a tired, old man. And after that final blow was struck and Gwyn was no more...you made your choice.

And now you're standing just outside the grand chamber that housed your's and Gwyn's decisive battle, staring warily up at the dull sky. The cold, craggy, and harsh roof of the Kiln was the only thing to greet your gaze. So many thoughts running through your head... But then, you feel it. That familiar feeling... There was sorcery in the air. But that isn't possible. The Kiln was not simply something that could be strode into by anyone who pleased. And the Black Knights did not employ lowly mages into their ranks. To think you were followed here was... You sigh. You're tired, very tired, but you don't let that deter you. With one graceful movement you draw Astora's Straight Sword from its sheathe and raise the Crest Shield to meet this unseen foe, whomever they were.

You stand with weapon and shield drawn but nothing lurches from the shadows or comes screaming at you with fervent bloodlust. Whomever is weaving this sorcery has hidden themselves, and quite well. You scan the bleak Kiln and naturally there are truly no ideal spots to hide ones self in. Though this sorcery feels so strange... And the length of time its been charging is unheard of. No sorcery, no pyromancy, nor miracle take this long. Was it possible that this peculiar feeling was the result of your choice? You quickly glance back towards the chamber before turning back to face any enemies. Still nothing! But...this feeling is getting heavier. And you feel yourself getting...lighter. So very light. Your vision begins to waver and sway. A quick shake of the head attempts to regain clarity. To let ones guard down in Lordran was to invite a swift and painful death. But that persistent feeling of lightness was getting more and more pronounced. You're panting heavy and hard, vision practically swimming now. Damn this cowardly mage and his magics. You break into a shaky sprint to try and locate this annoyance. And end it. But your legs, they buckle under you like kindling wood. You tumble to the dusty and dry ground of the Kiln. Is this how it ends? So...simply? No clash in fire with a horrendous demon? No rain of bolts and arrows from distant snipers? Done in by a quiet mage and his magics?

You chuckle darkly. You slay the Lord of Cider only to fall to...this. Let it be done quickly then. But nothing comes. It's as deathly quiet in the Kiln as it ever was. But the light feeling continues to grow inside you. Just be done with it! That's what your mind screams over and over. You can feel your consciousness slipping away like grains of sand through your gloved fingers. Maybe...it won't be so bad. To sleep once more. That dour thought is the last you have as the darkness over takes you and the world before you fades away.

You gasp sharply as your eyes shoot open. You're not dead? At least you don't believe so. The state of your mortality was already a chore considering you were Undead. And while the state of your mortality may still be in question where you are isn't. You can tell from just a glance that where you are now is not the Kiln of the First Flame. You push yourself up slowly and get to your feet, albeit a tad wobbly. You begin taking in these new surrounding through the slit of you helmet. It was some type of forest you found yourself in. The Darkroot Basin? Perhaps the Garden? The dreary, oppressive atmosphere was accurate enough for either. Did the unseen mage send you here? For what purpose? You'd cut him down after you found him and forced the answers from him. Thoughts of revenge were cut short when you heard a low, hungry growl emanate from behind you. You spin on your heels readying both sword and shield as you did so. And before you...is a creature you can't even begin to describe. And when you consider the monstrosities you've seen in Lordran during your travels this is legitimately shocking.

The creature before you has the body of a powerful lion, but upon its back are the leathery wings of a bat. And its tail, it's something you can't truly classify. It's something insectoid, but unlike any other insect part you've ever encountered. In any case, whatever it was it looked terribly unfriendly and horribly sharp. The beast eyes you with ravenous hunger and bares its teeth. It was like a mouth full of daggers, glistening wet and tinted dirty pink. You reinforce the hold on the Crest Shield and tighten your grip on Astora's Straight Sword. Such a trusty sword, it has felled countless beasts and demons before. You would add this creature to the ever-growing body count. The monster in front of you roars a deafening cry and swipes at you with one of its massive, claw-baring paws. The blow connects with the Crest Shield, which absorbs the hit well. You quickly counter with a downwards slash, aiming for the alien creatures face. The slash finds its mark, and slices across the monsters eye. A torrent of blood follows, erupting from the wound. A howl of pain reverberates through you as the beast stumbles back and nurses its injury. It glares back to you. And now...it looked exceedingly angry.

It charges at you, bloody and howling. It makes no attempt at some paltry swipe, no, it intends to body slam you and crush the life out of you with its considerable bulk. You roll out of its path at the last moment, the hulking monster screaming past you. Instinctively you raise your shield and not a moment too soon. The bizarre tail of the creature rockets towards you, but thankfully is deflected to the side thanks to your quick reaction not a second ago. You slash at the tail and feel it carve into just slightly. It was surprisingly durable and a thick filthy yellow goo begins to seep from the cut. You bring your sword to your helmeted face and sniff the edge. The stench of poison fills your nostrils. Naturally. Impressive physical prowess wasn't enough, it was also poisonous. You flick the blade from the lingering droplets of poison and begin circling the beast, the beast itself doing the same. You look for any opening to exploit, any chance to strike and kill this...thing. The great beast charges at you once more and you prepare to roll away once again.

But the ferocious charge comes to a skidding halt right in front of you. It tricked you... In your moment of surprise the creature lashed out with its venomous tail. You try and bat the tail away but the attack finds its mark, somewhat. Immediately, you feel the bite of poison flood your body. But you recover quickly. And now your turn to surprise. You bash the Crest Shield against the monsters bloody face. A distraction, nothing more. You aim to end this now before the vile poison fells you. You push on with the offense. You slash and cleave and slice and thrust. The beast is unprepared for the assault. It tries to limp away, its face awashed in blood and its body scored with numerous stab and slicing wounds that leaked crimson and bile.

You pant and heave, the biting poison still pumping through your veins. You slowly stride after the monster, your sword casting a reddish shadow before you. You heft the blade overhead and drive it deep into the beasts back. It lets loose with another howl that slowly tapers off into a whimper until that to dies out. There's just silence now.

You sheathe your sword and rest your sword-arm. The biting, burning poison is still eating away at you. Carefully you slip the Bottomless Box out of you armor. No moss of any kind... Blight Town saw to that, it seems. You place the box back inside your armor and heave a heavy sigh. Perhaps the poison will run its course? When you drop to your knees and clutch at your chest those thoughts quickly dissipate. You fall to the forest floor, rolling to lie on your back. The sun is shining far above you... And it's has never looked brighter. Not from Firelink Shrine, not from Anor Londo, not from anywhere you can ever recall visiting. You wish you could continue to watch it some more, but the poison is surging into every organ. Your chest starts to softly rise and fall and your eyelids grow as heavy as black iron. But you hear something off in the distance.

"Oh my goodness!"

It's a sweet, dulcet tone. An angel coming to claim you? You struggle to lift you head from the ground to see your angel and see a...small, butter-yellow flying horse. Your head drops back down, confident in the fact that you're now wildly hallucinating. Again, inky blackness swamps your vision and you drift off to a peaceful eternity.

Ponyville, Sorcery, and A Puny Dragon.

Perhaps not as eternal as you thought, though. Your tired eyes flitter open and the small amount of sunlight seeping through the slit of your helm nearly blinds you. You can hear a multitude of birds tittering and singing, and the smell of fresh grass and water finds its way into your nose. Are you still in the forest? You certainly don't recall the forest floor being this...soft. Groggily, you sit up and notice a soft blanket has been draped across you. It amusingly small and barely covers you at all. You also notice that you yourself are situated on a couch. It's also quite small for you. This was all...a first. Typically, passing out lead to a moment of respite before you saw the familiar sight of a bonfire in front of you again. You suddenly remember the battle against the strange monster in the dreary woods and your hands go to where the creature stabbed you with its toxic tail. It was just above your heart... The wound has been treated, cleaned and covered with a light gauze. Impressive work, what with you still being in your Elite Knight armor. As you push yourself up off the couch and get upright you nearly strike your head against the ceiling. Wherever you were now stayed to be running with the theme of the blanket and furniture; it was all small to you.

You look over your surroundings and see all manner of woodland creatures scampering back and forth. Asides from the wildlife the dwelling was lightly decorated, nothing as grand as Anor Londo, however. You began to hear a soft humming coming from not to far off. Best to be cautious... If it's a foe you might be able to get the drop on them. If it was an ally they may be able to explain a few things. Quietly, which isn't an easy task when in a suit of full armor, make your way to the source of the humming. You come to an empty doorway and peer around its corner. There's a simple kitchen and...the same flying horse from before. The moment you see it, it sees you. The tray it was holding in its mouth clatters to the floor and it screams in terror before dropping to the floor and cowering behind its light-pink mane.

"P-P-P-P-Please don't hurt me!"

The horse just...spoke. Still not the oddest thing that's happened to you thus far.

"I-I-I-I-I was go-going to bring-bring you some sou-sou-soup."

Soup? Indeed, now that you allowed a slight pause in your defenses you could catch a whiff of something appetizing. You look towards the bowl adorning the ground and see it was a simple vegetable soup. You can't remember the last time you've eaten anything, or if you even could anymore... You shake your head. What are you thinking? This could easily be a trap of some sort. Though...if she wanted you dead she could have done so much faster and easier when you were in the woods. Not to mention she treated your wound. Why do that if she desired your life? ...No, you couldn't afford to trust anyone or anything right now. Besides, every time you've done so, it ended...badly. For all involved. The small winged equine in front of you continued to whimper and hide behind its mane. You sheathe your sword. You wouldn't trust this thing, but you'd do your best to get some answers out of it. With weapon put away the butter-colored horse steals a peek at you from behind her mane and begins to lessen her shivering.

"You-You aren't going to-to hurt me...?"

A simple nod of the head is your response.

"Th-Thank you... Uh, um, I-I'm Fluttershy. An-And you're...what exactly?"

Fluttershy? What sort of moniker was that? It was apt with her voice being just above a whisper, but still. And why was she asking you what you were? It was as if she had never seen a human before, undead or otherwise. You offer no answer to her question, anyway. You...don't speak much. Fluttershy started to fidget in place when you didn't respond.

"Can-can't you speak?"

More silence is all she gets from you. This must be difficult for her, you're not one to speak often and she can't read any facial expressions you might have with your faceplate down.

"Um, well, what were you doing in the Everfree Forest?"

You shrug your shoulders. You hadn't a clue. Maybe if you did you'd inform her as such.

"An-And did you...kill that manticore?"

This time you nod a yes to her question and her eyes immediately grow to the size of diner plates and she begins to yell, the softest one you've ever heard.

"I-I-I can't believe it! Who-Who do you think you are!"

Her personality certainly flipped around quickly enough. But is she honestly surprised by your actions? This 'manticore' creature would have torn you apart if you hadn't fought back and slain it. You don't go looking for trouble, it generally finds you. Though you don't say it, this realization seems to dawn on Fluttershy and she reverts back to being soft-spoken and meek.

"Oh! Oh, I-I'm so sorry... I guess you didn't have a choice but...still..."

She genuinely looks distraught over the death of that monster, even tearing up a bit. You simply don't understand it... This situation is making you, of all people, uncomfortable. You clear your throat loudly enough to catch the equines attention.

"O-Oh, excuse me," Fluttershy sniffles a little before turning her focus back to you with a slight smile on her face. "Maybe my friend, Twilight Sparkle, can help? She knows all sorts of things."

Twilight...Sparkle? Sounds like the name of a...mage. You disliked mages. Greatly... But this...Twilight Sparkle may be able to provide you with a means to get back to Lordran. Hopefully, wherever it was you were it wasn't to far from home, but...you never heard of a land of talking horses before. And you thought the inhabitants of Catarina were bizarre. You motion towards the front door of Fluttershy's home, letting her know of your desire to leave.

"You want to leave now? But aren't you hungry? I could make another bowl--"

You cut off Fluttershy by thrusting your arms a bit more forcibly at the door this time.

"Al-Alright, we'll leave now. Give me a second, please."

You roll your eyes, not that she could see it.

"Angel Bunny, come here," she calls out. You watch a white rabbit trot past you like you weren't even there. "Angel, I'm going into town to talk to Twilight about my...um, new friend here, and I need you to watch the house, ok?"

The rabbit stares up at you, its face one of complete contempt. Hollows and demons alike have not glared at you as hard as this rabbit is. Maybe it is a demon... Note to self: slay small rabbit demon at earliest opportunity. Fluttershy leads you from her tiny cottage and quietly trots in front of you as the both of you make your way down a simple dirt road. You're constantly looking at the beautiful landscape all around you. It's so very...colorful, with its azure skies, viridian grasslands and hearty trees. Overbearingly so... You absentmindedly paw at the hole in your armor while you glance around. You'd have to patch that eventually. The moment you find a bonfire and have a moment to... Wait a moment. What if...what if there were no bonfires here? That could be problematic, to say the least. Hell, what if this wasn't some distance land far from Lordran after all? What if this was all just some illusionary world crafted by the unseen mage? It's not unheard of. The Painted World of Ariamas was all to painfully real. You were beginning to worry just slightly.

"We'll be in Ponyville soon enough." the winged horse in front of you chimed in.

Fluttershy's voice snapped you from your worrying thoughts, and replaced them with further thoughts of how ridiculously named everything here seemed to be. Ponyville? That must be a joke name, correct? It has to be... It's not. It's really nothing but ponies of varying bright colors wandering around the town as you crest a hill just outside it. Some were working stalls, others tending to gardens, a few were taking care of their fanciful homes. Not a single human in sight. Not. One. If this was the unseen mage's idea of a joke you truly don't understand it. At all. As you feel a headache starting to come over you, Fluttershy pipes up once more.

"There's Twilight's house up ahead. I'm sure she'll be able to help with this whole situation."

You see your equine companion looking towards a rather large tree. Naturally a mage would live in a tree. Fluttershy gently rapped on the door of the tree-home as you stood behind her. The door swung open a moment later and there was a small reptile of some kind standing there. You recognize a dragon when you see one but this was...pathetic. He barely came up to your shin. Though, better small and worthless than another Seath the Scaleless. You stare down at him. It stares up at you. Dead silence for a full minute. It slowly takes a step back and quietly closes the door.

"Twilight! I think it's for you!"

A second or so later the door reopened and a purple-tinged horse was standing there.

"Well? Who was it...Spike...?"

Joy unbounded, another staring contest. And again, utter silence.

"Um, hello, Twilight." Fluttershy waves at the stupefied violet-eyed horse. Twilight never breaks eye contact as she turns to speak with her to her friend.

"Hi...Fluttershy. Uh...who or what is this?"

"Well, I'm not really sure. I found him in the Everfree Forest. He was hurt, so I had to help him."

Twilight nods in understanding as Fluttershy gives the short version of the events.

"Ok, that explains some things. But not nearly everything. So...uh, you, what's your name? Where are you from exactly?" Twilight begins to lob questions at you.

These horses were so hung up on names. Why did they care? No one else did... You inwardly sigh. Not speaking was proving to be a problem. You weren't even sure you could speak after forgoing it for so long, but short simple answer should suffice for these creatures.

"...Anonymous."

You're surprised by the sound of your own voice. It's so low and gravelly, and muffled by your helm. Fluttershy also looks surprised, it seems she didn't quite believe you beforehand when the speaking query came up.

"And you're from...? Twilight continued to probe with questions.

"Lordran."

Lordran...you can honestly say you miss it. Hollows, demons, and devils all.

"I've never heard of, what was it, Lordran?" Twilight pursed her lips as she brought a hoof to her chin. "Maybe there's something in my library. please, come in."

The purplish horse waves you and Fluttershy inside her library/tree house. You actually have to duck down in order to clear the doorway. You survey the hollowed-out tree once you inside and find it to be a fair deal larger than Fluttershy's miniscule cottage. Though, it's roughly equal in terms of furniture. But every available inch of wall space seemed dedicated to rows and rows of books. It was no Duke's Archive but impressive for a tiny, talking, purple horse.

"Now, let's see here." Twilight began to eye her collection of tomes before the horn that adorned her forehead started to glow with a magical aura.

Sorcery. You stealthily reach for your sword and unsheathe the blade slowly.

"Spike, can you help me find Ends of Equestria: Lost Lands and Legendary Locales vol. 1?" the sorcerer-horse called out for aid from her dragon-assistant.

"Sure thing Twi--" Spike, the puny dragon, said eagerly as he came down from the second floor. He froze in place when he saw you sword in hand and where it was currently pointing. Fluttershy was whimpering and shivering in terror behind a nearby potted plant.

"What in the world is wrong with you two?" Twilight asked, turning to face you as she spoke. You could hear her breathe hitched in her throat as she came to see your sword leveled perfectly with her right eye, it was just inches away.

"You..." Your tone is threatening and cold.

"M-M-Me?" Twilight stammers out a response.

"You brought me here...with sorcery." Twilight's eyes are locked on the sword tip.

"N-No I didn't, all unicorns can use magic. I-I'm not the only one. A-And I certainly don't remember cast-casting a teleportation spell that went haywire."

She seemed to be telling the truth. A sword pointed at one's head tends to bring about honestly. Or she could just be lying, playing dumb, and not willing to own up to her mistake. But...you can't help believing her. It's a worrying feeling, to trust this easy. You return Astora's Straight Sword to its sheath and the whole room lets loose with a collective sigh of relief.

"N-Now, if all of you help me, we can try and figure this out." Twilight states to the room.

You and the rest nod, and begin searching the room for the book she apparently requires. You distance yourself from the two chatting horses, and the least intimidating dragon you've ever seen, to look on your own. Left alone with your thoughts as you scour the shelves. Why did you believe that...unicorn? Or whatever she was. She simply told you the "truth" and you believed her. That...just didn't add up to you. She must have some ulterior motive in mind. She'll want something in some capacity for her efforts. They always do...

"I found it, Twilight." Fluttershy's soft voice came from overhead and brings you back to the task at hand.

"That's great Fluttershy, lemme see it." Twilight's horn glows with magical energies again and the book levitated through the air to her location on the first floor.

You hoped this would be the key out of this...madhouse. You lean against a nearby wall and rest for a moment as the trio gloss over the dingy old tome.

"Lordran, Lordran..." Twilight repeated to herself as she thumbed through the book. How she did that with no actual thumbs, you could only guess. "I'm not seeing Lordran anywhere in here. Not past the Griffon Kingdom, not in the Dragon's Valley, just nowhere!" The purple pony huffed and slammed the book closed. "Just how did you end up in the Everfree Forest?"

"Blacked out. In the Kiln. Woke up here." You answer is simple and to the point.

Twilight seemed to be getting edgy over the fact she couldn't this problem out. But she visibly calmed when an idea seemed to pass in her mind.

"Then maybe... But, no, that's not possible... At least it shouldn't be..." You didn't like where this was heading. "Maybe the reason Lordran doesn't appear in the book is because, well...it doesn't exist here. That means...you're from another world entirely!" Twilight gushed excitedly and pointed a hoof at you.

Another world? The thought had crossed your mind. After all, Lordran had its own bizarre occurrences, though that had more to do with time than this world-hopping business.

"Than send me back. Now." You weren't asking.

"I, uh, I can give it a try, I guess. Come over here please, Anonymous." Twilight waved you over in order to stand before her.

She starts to focus and her horn lights up like a torch and begins to throw off sparks of magic. You feel light again, hopefully this'll be nothing more than a minor hiccup in your life. The light around Twilight's horn pulsates and throbs. Yes, this'll be a memory and nothing more soon enough. Twilight is visibly straining now with teeth clenched and sweat dripping down her forehead. The ethereal light in the room becomes blinding and a low rumble could be heard building in the air. And all at once the sorcery in Twilight's horn, and concentrated around you, explodes in a terrific flash of colors and noises. Fluttershy yelps, Spike takes cover, and Twilight yells over the otherworldly sounds as the arcane light envelops everything. Several heartbeats pass before the light dissipates and you finally see... You're right where you were before, although the black ring singed into the wood at your feet was new. You growl in annoyance and aggravation. This was turning out to be such a long day...

Stuck in a Strange Land

Twilight was on her back, her eyes swirling around in their sockets.

"Did I do it?" she asked in a confused if mildly cute manner.

"Nope." Spike said flatly.

"N-No, I'm afraid not." Fluttershy mumbled.

You add to the rest with an angry grunt. Of course, when you want sorcery without a hitch, it goes careening off a cliff and explodes into a fireball when it hits the ground. You do not want to be stuck here.

"I'm sorry Anonymous, I guess my magic isn't strong enough to send you back..." Twilight has righted herself and was casting a forlorn stare at the floor.

For the love of... She genuinely looked disappointed over her failure. And it was making you feel...guilty over that grunt you snorted out. She did try at least.

"It is...fine, Mage Twilight Sparkle." You don't sound too reassuring but the gesture seemed to make her feel better and she gives you a small smile.

Thanking a mage for a failed casting... Truly, this world was cursed with something most evil.

"Wait a minute!" Twilight perked up even more. "Maybe Princess Celest--Oh, no. Darn it." She became downtrodden again.

"What is it, Mage Twilight?" You ask, hopeful that it leads somewhere useful.

"Well, if Princess Celestia was here, she might have the ability to send you back to Lordran. But she's on official business in Manehattan. She'll be gone at least a week. And Princess Luna is busy with an ambassador trip to the Griffon Kingdom. She'll be gone just as long, if not longer."

Stuck, stuck, stuck is all you're hearing. Stuck in the equivalent of a child's story book. It could be a shade worse upon reflection. Just a shade, however... You didn't have any other options here; what else was new? So, you'd wait for this princess and when you meet her you'd get her to send you back to your world. Via persuasion or force, for you they were somewhat the same thing.

"If I must wait...then I shall wait."

Now wait where was the question at hand.

"Uh, um, if-if you like, you can stay with...me. I mean, if you want to that is..." Fluttershy fumbled around her words as she spoke them. "I-I mean, I'm still about your wound and-and I'd like to make sure you get some good food in you."

Still she was going out of her way to try and watch over you? You may as well take advantage of it. She was quiet and timid, she wouldn't dare try to harm you. She didn't have the fortitude, not even through trickery.

"Very well, Lady Fluttershy. I accept your proposal." You kneel on one knee and extend a hand to her while bowing your head respectfully, it was a pose you've taken many times before at every lonely, cold bonfire.

FLUTTERSHY KINDLED.

At least, you could have sworn you saw those words before your eyes afterwards.

"Well, I'm glad that's one problem solved," Twilight quipped with a grin. "Anonymous, I'll let you know the minute Princess Celestia is back in Canterlot."

You nod simply in response.

"Um, if it's ok with you Anonymous could we head back to my house? I have some chores to take care of and I'm sure Angel is running out of patience."

You nod once more, you really didn't feel any need to be in Twilight's home anymore than needed and start to make for the door. Fluttershy says her good-byes to the purple-horse-mage and follows after you.

The walk back to Fluttershy's cottage is a quiet one until you notice a buzzing noise drawing closer. Fluttershy doesn't seem to hear though. You raise the Crest Shield just to err on the side of caution when suddenly something blue and feathery slams into it. The force of the impact actually sends you skidding back several feet. You look down at your shield and see another flying equine like Fluttershy stuck to it like dried mud.

"Oh my goodness!" the butter-yellow pony glides over to you before getting a surprised look on her soft features. "Rainbow Dash? What are you doing?"

Rainbow Dash. These names never cease to be fanciful and silly. And true to her name, her mane is literally the seven colors of a rainbow.

"Ugh... My head..." the cyan-hued would-be missile groaned.

You give the Crest Shield a hard shake and the one called Rainbow Dash comes undone, tumbling to the ground in a heap.

"Dash, are you ok? What were you doing?" Fluttershy asked as she helped the other flying equine to her hooves.

Rainbow Dash brought a hoof to her no doubt sore head as she started to speak something other than groans. "I was flying by and saw this...thing sneaking up on you!" The hoof that was rubbing her tender spot was now being pointed at you accusingly.

"Oh no, Rainbow. He wasn't going to hurt me. This is Anonymous. He's, um, from out of town." Fluttershy explained as she hovered next to you.

You can't help but feel like some sort of attraction.

"What is he anyways? He walks on two legs. He some kinda jumbo Diamond Dog?" Rainbow asked quizzically, and having regained enough of her senses to fly again.

She floats a few inches from your helmeted face and heavily scrutinizes your overall appearance. And what did she call you? A Diamond Dog? Those sound truly fearsome. Rainbow Dash carefully knocked her hoof against your faceplate. You snorted in response. Rainbow quickly flapped backwards, as if she expected smoke to billow from your helm. Soon enough, she's right back in your face.

"This things is...kinda cool. His face is totally made out of metal!"

"Human." You correct her. Enough with being called 'thing'.

"Hu-what?" Rainbow Dash cocks an eyebrow.

You remain quiet. You don't have the time or patience to give her a full explanation. How would you even begin to describe the Undead aspect? Better to not bring it up at all.

"Lady Rainbow Dash, if you don't mind we were traveling back to Lady Fluttershy's cottage and I'd like to resume that activity."

You say plainly and brush past the blue flying pony. You hear stifled laughter behind you that soon erupts into full-blown guffawing

"L-Lady Rainbow Dash? Ha ha! Dude, way, way, too formal. Who talks like that? Ha ha!"

You're not surprised this one is so uncouth. And what in Lordran was a 'dude'? Rainbow Dash wiped away a tear from her magenta eyes.

"Just Rainbow Dash is fine or RD, none of this, pfftt, lady stuff."

You grunt in slight annoyance and resuming walking back to Fluttershy's.

"Well Fluttershy, I need to get back to work. This little diversion kinda set me back a little. I'll catch ya later!"

You hear the loudmouthed one race off with hurried wing-beats and you also hear Fluttershy calling after her.

"Ok Dash, I'll talk to you later then." she gives a little wave before chasing after you. "W-Wait for me,

Anonymous!"

"And just how are our forces coming along?" the voice was jovial and lighthearted, but just under the surface one could hear mania and dementia.

"Very well. In one weeks time the land of Equestria will know of the monstrous hordes of Lordran. And the two of us will have our goals ever closer to fruition." the second voice was noble in tone, almost regal, but also sounded terribly ancient. The voice dripped with darker intentions and machinations.

"So glad to hear it. Just remember our deal."

"I know quite well what our agreement is. In fact, I feel I should be the one to remind you."

The more lighthearted voice chortled. "Come now, Darkstalker Kaathe. If you can't trust the god of chaos, who can you trust?"

"Do not try my patience, Discord. And do not fail me as he did."

Kindness in a pony form.

Night had begun to fall over, what did Fluttershy call this place again? Equestria? A fitting name, if nothing else. After arriving back at her cottage, Fluttershy had given you more of a tour of the dwelling; ending with a spare room that would serve as your bedroom. It was enough for what you needed it for. After her tour Fluttershy left you to yourself, said she had to prepare diner for herself and her animals. She offered to make you something as well, but you politely declined. You needed some time alone to think about your...predicament. So you sat on the simple bed provided for you and thought. Long and hard. What if this...Celestia couldn't send you back to Lordran? What if this was a permanent problem, being stuck here?

A sigh escapes your helm and you rub the back of your neck to workout a knot you can feel building just below the surface. You glance out a window next to your bed. The moon was hanging low and fat in the sky, so low it felt like you could almost grab it. Maybe the fresh air and change in scenery would do you some good? You quietly leave your room and walk into the foyer of Fluttershy's cottage. She didn't appear to be around. Perhaps she already went to bed? No matter, you didn't want the company.

You let yourself out and find a nice, serene hilltop to rest on not to far from the cottage. You gaze up at the swollen moon and just enjoy watching it. You hear a small rustling coming from behind you and immediately you spring to your feet, your sword already drawn. You were formulating a plan to compensate for the lack of a shield you had so foolishly left in your room. But then you heard a familiar whimpering. It was Fluttershy, again in a shivering ball. You return your blade to its sheath.

"Oh, Lady Fluttershy. Apologies." You say with a bow. "I should have informed you not to approach me from behind."

The butter-yellow pony unfurled from her protective ball.

"O-Oh no, it's ok. I-I really should have told you I was here."

You return to your spot on the hilltop and Fluttershy joins you, taking a seat right beside you.

"Oh, this is fine, right?" she asks meekly.

You nod that it is, Fluttershy was like a specter when she was quiet. She wouldn't be a bother. The two of you are silent, not a single word is spoken for what seems like hours. Both of you just drink in the gorgeous sight of the moon.

"Anonymous, what are you...thinking of?"

Fluttershy breaks the silence with that single question. You're quiet for a time, so long a time Fluttershy tries to retract her question but you begin to answer her.

"Lordran. My...home."

It wasn't much of a home, but it was yours. At least now, anyway.

"I suppose that's to be expected." Fluttershy said with a slight nod.

She starts to ask something else, but you don't give her the chance. You just can't stop yourself from rattling on, the words just come.

"I just want, need, to get back. I...I can't survive here. This world, this Equestria, it is too...peaceful."

Fluttershy looks confused. You can't blame her, it's an odd thing to say.

"Peaceful is...bad to you?" she stares at you like you just told some sort of horrid joke.

"I am...a being of strife and chaos and bloodshed. It is...all I know of. I cannot survive amid peace. I do not know how."

You're quiet again and so is your companion. Suddenly you feel Fluttershy nuzzle against your armor-encased arm gently.

"What was that for...?"

Her response is just above a whisper.

"It just looked like...you needed it."

She continues to nuzzle to you and you don't stop her. Not tonight. Not now. Tonight you'll accept the fact that she isn't getting close to you in order to stab you in the back, or because she wants something in return. No, she's doing this because of the kindness and compassion in her heart. Kindness and compassion, two emotions that died in you long ago...

Morning arrived in your new, hopefully temporary, home. You didn't sleep after your time with Fluttershy, though she went to bed the moment you two got back inside her home. You just stayed up for the remainder of the night seated on your bed with your gaze turned towards the middle distance. There was a light knock on the bedroom door followed by Fluttershy's soft voice.

"Anonymous? Are you awake?"

"Aye."

She opened the door and gingerly trotted in, rubbing the sleep from her eyes like a child and her mane was tussled and unkempt. She yawned and it sounded like a cross between a puppy, a kitten, every other baby animal you could think of. Heartwarmingly cute...

"Good morning, Anonymous."

"Good morning, Lady Fluttershy."

She notices you're not under the covers.

"Oh, didn't sleep well?"

"I...did not sleep at all, actually."

She looked concerned. "Oh my, that's not healthy, Anonymous."

You dismiss it with a wave of your hand.

"I'm quite fine Lady Fluttershy. Please, believe me."

She scrunches up her face and gives you another look.

"Well, if you say so. But you are going to be eating with me this morning."

You begin to protest again, but the glare she gives you... You wordlessly nod in agreement and feel a shiver run down your spine. Breakfast is pleasant enough if not your...usual affair of foodstuffs. An awful lot of flowers and hay... But Fluttershy quickly prepared something more preferable after you explain you couldn't exactly digest flora and dry hay strands. The simple bit of bread with butter and the juicy oranges the pegasus provided were like a kings banquet to you. You had honestly forgotten what food tasted like, too long were you sustained on the Estus. After the basic but very enjoyable meal you were at a lost to what to do. There was no...goal for you to work towards. You didn't have to cut through countless, bloodthirsty Hollows to ring a bell. Or slog through lava to retrieve an ember for a blacksmith. You had...free time. This was an all together new concept to you and you didn't like it. You needed to keep busy with something, anything.

There was a hurried knock at the front door. Fluttershy excused herself from the table to answer it. You follow her from the kitchen, curiosity somewhat getting the better of you. Fluttershy answered the door and seemed pleased to see whomever it was on the other side. You spy from your spot in the kitchen and see an orange-colored pony standing there with a dirty blond mane, chatting with Fluttershy. The blond horse wore the most ridiculous hat on her head. She, you guessed it was a she, lacked the wings and horns the other ponies you've met had. How many different kinds were there? The pony with the odd hat looked to be asking Fluttershy a question and she looked flustered trying to find an answer.

"Is there a problem, Lady Fluttershy?" You ask as you walk into the foyer, earning a quick gasp from the hat wearing pony when she sees you.

"Who or what in the hay is that, Shy?"

Fluttershy giggles and gives her friend a short version of the events up to this point.

"Well shoot, sugarcube. That is some story. Name's Applejack."

Now that you could hear her a little more clearly, this Applejack had quite the bizarre accent. She offered a hoof to you, which you blankly stare at. You instead bow to her.

"A pleasure, Lady Applejack."

"Hoo-whee! Ya'll talk real proper like, Anonymous."

It was a proper way of speaking...

"Anyways Shy, can ya help me with mah problem?"

Fluttershy snaps back to fidgeting and thinking.

"Oh, Applejack... I'm sorry, but I have to go to Canterlot for the day."

Applejack stamps her hoof and snorts lightly.

"Dang! Ah really have time ta deal with this mahself."

You get an idea suddenly.

"Well, perhaps I could help with this...issue, Lady Applejack." You suggest plainly. If you could help out Fluttershy for all she's done for you, it was the least you could do.

Applejacks ears go flat against her head as she thinks. "Ah...dunno. Ah mean, Ah don't really know ya..."

Fluttershy chimes in in her tiny, flighty voice.

"I think he can handle it fine, Applejack. Anonymous dealt with a manticore. This should be easy for him."

You hoped you didn't have to fight another one of those for this problem. But honestly even if it was something major there was nothing Equestria could throw at you that you couldn't handle.

"Weeeeell, if you trust 'em Shy, Ah can too. Ah really appreciate this, sugarcube. Ah'll be sure ta get ya back fer this."

You nod simply, somewhat humored over what exactly this problem could possibly be. Most likely terrifying weed pulling, or horrifying house painting, or some other small, menial chore. Applekack glances over her shoulder and shouts unexpectedly.

"Alright girls! Ah found ya a sitter fer the day!"

Wait, what? Three even smaller ponies come rushing into Fluttershy's home and collectively gasp in amazement. What? In an instant they were upon you. Tugging at your sword, darting through your legs, knocking on your helmet, and bombarding you with questions. WHAT?

"Ok girls, Ah'll pick ya up later today. Ya'll play nice with Anonymous, ya hear?"

Applejack had already left by the time you looked up to protest this...favor.

"I'll be leaving now too, Anonymous. I'll be home later tonight. Have fun with the girls."

And with that Fluttershy flew off from her cottage as the...children continued to run rampant. Today had started so well...

Holding Out for a Hero

Fluttershy's cottage was a scene of chaos as the pony children ran amok. You were still trying to absorb this turn of events and stood dumbly in the center of the room. This situation needed to be calmed and quickly, lest your nerves fray any further. Shaking you head slightly, you try and get the young filly's attention.

"Excuse me young children." Nothing. And they were still getting into everything. You try and be a bit more forceful this time.

"Children, please."

You might as well not even be there with the amount of impact you've had so far. That's it...

"Girls!" You shout as loudly as possible, your voice echoing in your helmet and ringing in your ears.

The trio of troublemakers immediately freeze in place and stare wide-eyed at you. Well, at least they stopped running around for now.

"Thank you," you then clear your throat. "Now, if you would please come front and center."

The three little girls do so and sit down in front of you without protest.

"Let's start with names, shall we? I am Anonymous. Now you."

You point to the one on your left, a pony with a large pinkish bow tied up neatly in her red mane.

"Me? Mah name's Applebloom. Applejack's mah sister. Nice ta meet'cha."

Applejack was her sibling? Made sense. They shared the same odd accent and naming-theme. You moved on and pointed to the pony seated next to Applebloom; an off-white unicorn with a light purple-tinted mane with a soft streak of pink running though it.

"Well, my name is Sweetie Belle. Rarity is my older sister. Pleased to meet you."

Rarity? Not familiar with that particular talking horse. You nod in acknowledgement and come to the last filly. An orange-colored pegasus, roughly the same shade of Applejack if you had to guess. Her mane was fuchsia and wildly unkempt. And you were sensing a pattern here with the way things have proceeded thus far. Rainbow Dash must be her elder sibling.

"Name's Scootaloo, dude. Hiya."

That's it?

"Wait, Lady Rainbow Dash isn't your sister?" you ask, honestly a little surprised there was no familial relation. Scootaloo gets a wistful look on her young face for a moment before it's quickly replaced by a bright smile.

"Nah, RD isn't my sister. It would be so awesome is she was! But, nah, I'm just her...number one fan."

You're glad that didn't spiral into an episode. But what now? You didn't particularly care for children. And you weren't much for entertaining. Add those two together and, indeed, you were at a lost fro what to do. You think back to any activities from your own childhood that might please the girls. It's hard to remember that far back... And not much is coming to mind. Except, well, you do recall liking stories of all sorts. Pony children should be no different and be able to enjoy a tale, right? But what to tell them? You couldn't clearly remember any of the fables from your past. Although... You had just lived through quite the story of your very own. Yes, that should suffice. A tale of your trials and tribulations in Lordran. A grand adventure. So, you begin the tale, being careful to...omit the more colorful aspects. Something's just weren't for young ears. The young fillies seemed to be enjoying the tale, paying close attention to every word.

And the story went on. Your escape from the Undead Asylum, your quest to ring the Bells of Awakening, the meeting with the Kingseeker and his reveal that you were the Chosen Undead, your perilous trek through the dreaded Blight Town, the epic fight between you and Dragonslayer Ornstein and Executioner Smough, battling your way through the damned souls of New Londo, of the loyalty and vigilance of the Great Gray Wolf Sif, and finally to the final fated confrontation between yourself and Gwyn; Lord of Cinder himself. The girls were enthralled. Your story came to an end after a few hours with the girls looking exceedingly pleased with it.

"That story was the coolest I've ever heard!" Scootaloo excitedly gushed.

Applebloom vigorously shook her head in agreement. "Ah thought Ah'd die when he was tellin' that bit about that-there Blight Town!"

"I especially liked the part with him meeting the Great Gray Wolf, Sif." Sweetie Belle added to the heated conversation.

"Well, I am glad you all enjoyed the tale." you say humbly.

"Oh we definitely, Anon!" Scootaloo beamed up at you before looking over to her friends. "Right, girls?"

The young unicorn and...whatever type Applebloom was, nodded happily.

"Hey Anon, can we go an' play outside now?" Applebloom asked sweetly.

"I...suppose that would be fine. Just stay close to the cottage."

What harm could they possibly get in? Happy with your answer the girls scurried off outside to entertain themselves, while leaving you to find another chore or activity to occupy yourself with. Though, when they shut the doors behind them you could have sworn you heard the three cry out in unison:

"CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS, CHOSEN UNDEAD! YAY!"

--Scootaloo's Perspective--

You are Scootaloo and you just heard the greatest story of your young filly life. Anonymous was the collest thing since, well, ever! Well, maybe. He was as cool as Rainbow Dash, anyway. And thanks to his awesome story you were struck with inspur...insperay...an idea! CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS, CHOSEN UNDEAD! Whatever an undead was, you weren't really sure. But no big deal. Didn't really know what it meant to be chosen either...

"How can we all be Chosen Undead? Ain't bein' chosen means yer the only one?" Applebloom spoke up and seemed to be thinking the same thing.

"Details, details!" you wave off AB's questioning. You don't worry about those little matters, RD didn't worry about that stuff did she? Nope.

"But just how are we going to get our cutie marks being Chosen Undead?" Sweetie Belle was such a worrywart.

"You heard all those things Anonymous did in his story. We can definitely do some of those!" you're very impassioned over this particular cutie mark acquiring plan.

"Ah don't think ringin' a bell we git us a thang." Applebloom was right about that. Probably. The bells Anon talked about sounded important. There weren't any kinds of bells like that in Ponyville. But you start to get an idea. An awesome idea.

"Ooh... I know! We'll slay a dragon!"

Applebloom and Sweetie's jaws hit the ground.

"Ya wanna what a what?!" Bloom was looking at you like you were crazy.

"I just heard dragon. I don't even know what slay means." Sweetie Belle was trying to figure out your choice of words with a hoof to her chin.

"It means ta...kill, I think." Applebloom explained. You were glad for that. You didn't know what slay meant either so trying to explain it to Sweetie would have been a pain.

"Ooooh," the unicorn was quiet for a minute before sudden realization hit her. "Wait, what?! Kill a dragon?!"

You have the biggest grin on your face. "How hard can it be? We'll just...find a little dragon, that's all."

This plan is perfect! Cutie marks here you come! But...where to find a dragon? There was one up in the mountains, but Rainbow Dash and the others chased him off. That only left...the Everfree Forest.

"Where would we even find'a dragon anyhow?" Applebloom wasn't going to be too happy to hear the answer you've come up with.

"The Everfree, duh."

Your friends actually stop in their tracks when they hear the name.

"The forest? But...we always get inta trouble every time we set hoof in there."

"Applebloom is right! That place is just bad news for us!"

Well, they had a point. You guess. But, come on! Cutie marks!

"So you guys don't want your marks?"

Bloom and Belle were giving the ground a hard stare. They were obviously giving this some thought.

" Ya really think we can," Applebloom gulped. "Kill a dragon? Even a small one?"

She was onboard and asked a good question too.

"You bet we can! We're the Cutie Mark Crusaders! We'll get our cutie marks no matter what!" Rainbow Dash would be so proud to see this determination. You just knew it.

Sweetie Belle was still pondering. She was the more thoughtful one of you and Applebloom.

"Just how do we...do this? Ki--Slay a dragon?"

Score! Sweetie was down with the plan!

"How? Well, uh... Oh! I know! We'll make weapons! Just like Anon's thingy!"

Just what was that thing called...?

"You mean a sword?" Thank Celestia fro Sweetie Belle.

"Yeah, yeah, that's it! A swordy-thingy! We'll make swords just like Anon's! Outta wood or something. You can make stuff pretty well, Applebloom." She made your clubhouse after all! She could make swordy-things, no problem!

"Uh, yeah, Ah could make sum swords, Ah guess."

This was gonna be so awesome!

"Let's get back to the clubhouse than and get ready!"

Gotta keep up the momentum.

"But what about Anon? We said we'd stay close by." Gah, Sweetie! Stop being such a worrywart!

"He'll never know we're gone. We'll go into the forest, slay a dragon, get our cutie marks, and be back way before Applejack comes to pick us up." You're proud of yourself. You're really putting some effort into this plan. Go Scootaloo!

The unicorn and earth pony finally appear to be at ease with everything. So, TO THE CLUBHOUSE! Using your scooter, you zip back to the clubhouse like greased lightning and Applebloom gets to work making some swordy-things. You couldn't wait. A few minutes pass before Bloom is done with the weapons: simple wooden swords bound together with some twine. Applebloom passes out three of them. You eagerly grab yours in you mouth and cheer excitedly.

"Dragonslayers, yay!"

"Oh, wait a minute," Sweetie Belle puts her sword down and trots over to a chest in the corner. "If we're going to be Chosen Undead dragonslayers, we should look the part."

She fishes out the classic CMC capes. That dragon will never know what hit 'em! The three of you throw on your capes and do your best to mimic Anonymous by having the swords hang at your side. With a fantastic flourish you, Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle burst forth from the clubhouse and hold you swords to the sunny sky.

"For our cutie marks!" you all yell in unison.

It was a tad muffled with the swords in your mouths and all, but hey, the point got across. The point being the Cutie Mark Crusaders where going to take the Everfree Forest by storm!

And so the fearless Cutie Mark Crusaders trekked towards their destination: the gloomy and gray woods known as Everfree. And once in the thick of the forest a thought comes to your young filly mind. You had forgotten the Everfree Forest was this...scary. Like, really scary. Knee-knocking, teeth-rattling scary. Maybe this wasn't such a bright idea...No! Anonymous and Rainbow Dash wouldn't be sacred of a buncha trees and shadows! You steele yourself as best you can. Not as easy as you thought. The trees looked like they were...smiling at you. Gulp. Just think brave thoughts, Scootaloo...

"Do ya have an idea where-a dragon might be, Scootaloo?"

You honestly didn't. But no reason to let Applebloom in on that piece of info. Just think fast.

"Uh...caves! Dragon's live in caves, right? We just need to find a cave and we'll find a dragon!"

Perfectly sound logic. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom agreed with your slapped-together idea with a nod and fell in behind you as the three of you got deeper and deeper into the forest. This was going well so fat. Asides from the smiling trees and...other noises. This would be the day all of you got your cutie marks! And Rainbow Dash and Anonymous would be so proud of you! You didn't know Anonymous that well, but you just knew he'd be happy for you and your idea to be dragonslayers! After all, his story is the whole reason you're doing this!

Finding a cave in a forest was harder than it sounded You, Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle had wandered the Everfree Forest for what felt like hours now. Chances are it was only lie, a half-hour. BUT STILL! You were starting to get a little disheartened. If you couldn't find a dragon this whole plan was pointless!

"Hey! I think I see something! Over there!" you immediately perked up when Sweetie yelled and pointed to something off to the right.

It looked like... It was! A cave, just past the trees and undergrowth! You did your best not to squeal in joy. But this was it! Cutie marks and...and maybe recognition from Rainbow Dash and Anon. No time to waste!

"Come on girls! Let's go get us a dragon!" you exclaim giddily and race off towards the ultimate goal of this whole trip.

Once inside the cave an overpowering smell made you scrunch up your snout. It was a mix of mold, mildew, and...smoke. You gulped hard and pressed on with friends in tow. As your group got deeper into the cavern a dim goldish-orange glow started to become more apparent. And as you rounded a slimy, moss-covered corner you saw the cause of the glow. Bits. Mountains of bits and gemstones and other fancy treasures. And sleeping soundly in that pile of riches was the biggest dragon you've ever seen.

"That ain't no lil' dragon, Scootaloo!" Applebloom whispered. More a barely contained shout than a whisper...

You can feel sweat beading up on your forehead. The...plan had taken a serious turn. A turn towards a very bad direction.

"W-Well, we-we'll just leave and try and find a-another on-one. A much smaller one..." Sweetie Belle and Applebloom wordlessly agreed with shaky, frightened nods.

Good. Now, nice and easy, just walk backwards out of the dragon's lair and--Oh no. Oh no. The smoke was irritating your nose and...

"Ah-choo!"

The tiny sneeze echoed in the treasure-filled chamber and time seemed to come to a complete stop. Applebloom was slack-jawed. Sweetie was on the verge of tears. And you? You were wishing you were somewhere else. Somewhere far, far way...

Time rushed back into reality and the slumbering dragon cracked open one of its huge eyes open. It didn't look pleased to see the three of you standing there. It looked more like it was infuriated and getting ready to--

FIRE. SO MUCH FIRE.

Squealing and crying, you and follow Cutie Mark Crusaders ran as fast as possible out of the rapidly sweltering cave and away from the incredibly angry dragon. You hoped it wouldn't follow after you. The sound and feel of rumbling coming from behind you quickly dashed that slim hope.

Nearly tumbling out of the cave mouth you and your friends make a bee-line back to Fluttershy's place. But with that dragon right behind you, you get confused... The woods don't look as familiar as they used to. You take a wrong turn and find nothing but a sheer cliff face in front of you. And breaking through the treeline behind you...

The dragon. The gigantic, yellow-scaled, smoke-heaving, eyes filled with pure hatred, dragon. It stomped out of the woods and towered over the three of you, it's shadow washing over you like some terrible black ocean. This was it. This is how you were going to die. Eaten by a dragon. And nopony...nopony would ever know... Sweetie Belle was crying behind you. Applebloom was in a ball and shaking uncontrollably beside you. No...

No, it can't end like this. You...you had to be brave. You had to be a big filly. You had to be Rainbow Dash. You had to be Anonymous. You had to be the one to get your friends out of this disaster when you're the one who got them into it in the first place.

"G-Girls... I-I'll distract the d-dragon. Y-You go get help! Go get Anonymous!" Without waiting for a response you rush towards the dragon with a feeble cry.

Sweetie Belle sniffles and looks to Applebloom, who just stares back at the unicorn. She whimpers before she scampers off with Sweetie close behind. You quickly look back at you retreating friends. Good. They were safe. That's what matters most right now. You hoped they were quick in getting some help.

That's when you notice the monstrous shadow growing underneath you.

Smoke, Blood, Fire, Courage

--Anonymous' Perspective--

Such drudgery, this housework. With the three fillies playing quietly outside you didn't have much else to do. So you took to...sweeping. How did women do this day in and day out? And that rabbit; Angel, staring daggers at you all the while. What did Fluttershy see in that...creature? No matter, keep to the task at hand. Perhaps you'd...wash dishes after this. Though, maybe you should call for the girls? It was staring to get somewhat late, the sun beginning to set behind the horizon. And it was oddly quiet around the cottage. You were no expert, but children were typically vocal when playing, were they not? Especially these children...

"Anonymous!"

That sounded like...Sweetie Belle. You recognize the voice-cracking. It sounded like she was in some sort of distress.

Before you have a chance to wonder if some first-aid might be needed for a simple skinned knee Applebloom burst into the cottage foyer and nearly slams into an armoire in her haste. You were about to reprimand her as you walked into the foyer yourself, but that's when you saw the tears streaming down the fillies face.

"Applebloom? What...has happened?"

"Anon! It's Scootaloo! Ya gotta help Scootaloo, please!" Applebloom cried, practically in hysterics.

Scootaloo? Wait, where was the tiny pegasus? She seemed to be missing from the group.

"Well, where is she? And why are the two of you crying, and so out of breath?"

"It's a dragon Anonymous!" Sweetie Belle sobbed out.

You felt a stone drop into your stomach. A...dragon? Here? No...

"Dragon?!" You were at a loss. Dragons in Equestria. This was beyond problematic. Wait. Scootaloo was missing and this information of a dragon, coupled with the girls' reactions... "Where! Where is this dragon!"

You didn't mean to shout but now time was of the essence.

"Th-The Everfree Forest! That-a way!" Applebloom shakily pointed to the east.

With surprising speed you fetched the Crest Shield from your room and, as calmly as possible, strode back into the foyer. You kneeled to meet Applebloom and Sweetie face to face.

"Stay here and wait for Lady Fluttershy or Lady Applejack to return. I will save Scootaloo."

"Ya gotta, Anon! Scootaloo, she-she saved us! She distracted that mean dragon so we could get away!

"Please, Anonymous, bring her back..."

With a stern and determined nod, and a pat on each fillies head, you rushed from Fluttershy's home to the Everfree Forest. You would not fail in this.

As you galloped to Everfree your thoughts drifted. You would save Scootaloo, that was a certainty, but... Why do you feel so strongly about it? You've known Scootaloo all of a few hours. What was it about her specifically that drove you feet just a little harder? Sudden realization jumped to your forefront of your mind. She...reminds you of someone. She reminds you of you. Hearing Applebloom's words of how she willingly chose to distract a creature as fearsome as a dragon... That was the trigger. With an angry sigh you pushed the distracting thoughts aside. Thinking such thoughts now would do you no good. Focus. You had a dragon to kill. Hopefully, not a dragon that would require Gwyn's lightning bolts to injure...

You break into a more hurried sprint and see the tree line of Everfree just meters away. Scootaloo would be fine... You rush past the first few trees of the forest and get struck with nostalgia, coming to a slow jog as a result. This was the forest where you had arrived in this world. Where all this began. Everfree...such an unfitting name. A faint stink brings you back to reality: smoke and brimstone. Dragons fire.

You return to sprinting at full speed and trying to hone in on the stench. You hadn't a clue as to how large this forest was, but you wouldn't let that stop you. You had an unearthly sense of direction. With that burning stink filling your nose you delved deeper into the Everfree. Minutes upon minutes pass as you ran through the woods, but you've yet to see hide nor hair of Scootaloo, or the offending dragon. Did the dragon already...

No! None of that! You will succeed. You. Will. Succeed.

Pushing harder you amble over a gnarled tree root and feel the temperature rise sharply. You're close... And a piercing scream confirms it. You dash towards the source of the scream and break into a slight clearing...filled with white-hot fire, upturned earth, and choking smoke. And hunched over in front of you was the beast; the dragon. Though it didn't resemble the dragons you were familiar with. Good. It was clawing and snapping wildly at something at the base of a cliff face. Another scream rang out. Scootaloo! You draw Astora's Straight Sword and bang it loudly and rapidly against your shield. You need to get the hulking monsters attention.

"Here! Here, lizard! Me! Face me!"

A low snarl came from the dragon and it craned its serpentine neck to get a look at whomever was stupid enough to interrupt it. A quick burst of black smoke shot from its nostrils when it saw you standing there. Excellent, you had its undivided attention. Now comes the hard part.

"You'll face me, damn you."

The dragon turned its immense size to face you. It glared down at you with malice and contempt in its eyes. Thick, acrid wisps of smoke seeped out of its maw and its monstrous claws dug deep into the ground. It was sizing you up. This idiotic lizard had no idea some of the things you've battled against. Things far bigger than it. Things you've vanquished in the end. Its intimidation was lost on you. You dropped into a combat stance and raised the Crest Shield.

"You are nothing to me. Come."

A thunderous roar echoed across the Everfree Forest as the dragon attempted to smash you with one of its mammoth claws. You roll to the side and take the opportunity to stab your blade into the beast. The dragon pulls back its now bleeding claw and growls; deep and low. Its giant maw suddenly screams towards you and you slash and the fleshy opening of teeth. You feel your sword make contact and hear the dragon yelp in pain. You see a large fang drop to the ground and you smirk.

"Anonymous?"

The smirk drops from your face when you hear Scootaloos tired and haggard voice come from behind the steadily angering dragon. No time to think, you can already see the glow of fire building in the dragons throat. You race past the beast and to the young filly while screaming at her to run to you. She does so as fast as she can. You two meet and you scoop up the tiny pegasus in your arms. And not a moment to soon as the gout of dragons fire engulfs the both of you.

--Scootaloo's perspective--

Your eyes were slammed shut. You were sad to die by burning to death, but you were glad you weren't alone. But wait...the fire isn't catching? You cautiously open up your eyes and see Anonymous with his shield deflecting the raging inferno attempting to wash over you. The roaring fire rang in your ears but you clearly heard Anonymous when he spoke.

"Scootaloo, listen carefully. The moment this flame abates I want you to jump from my arms and flee. Flee all the way back to Lady Fluttershy's home. Do not stop. Do not look back. Do you understand?"

You sniffle and nod that you do. Anonymous... He came. He really came. You were sorry you ever doubted him. Even for a moment...

--Anonymous' perspective--

You told Scootaloo your orders. You would have to trust that she would follow them. The cone of flame was beginning to dissipate, thankfully. The Crest Shield wasn't built to withstand prolonged exposure to fire of this magnitude. As soon as the fire flickered down Scootaloo did as told and leapt from your arms and scrambled to the trees and away from the remainder of this battle. The dragon tried to follow after her but you made sure its anger was focused on you. You did this by sprinting up to it and viciously slashing at its chest. That certainly did it. The assault was back on. You and the dragon exchanged blows. You cleaved one of the dragons toes clean off. It, in turn, whipped at you with its tail, which sent you flying straight through a tree. Two of them, actually.

You are unsure how long this fight has lasted up until this far. But you were getting tired. But the dragon didn't seem to be sharing in that aspect. This needed to come to an end. You pushed up the faceplate of your helm and drank from the Estus Flask. Its rejuvenating power flooded your body and you pushed yourself to your feet, and out of the tangled mess of broken tree trunks and branches. Where was there a weak spot on this dragon? This type of dragon anyways. When it tried to reduce you and Scootaloo to ashes you had noticed the glow coming from its throat. But how to get to such a vulnerable area? ...Heh, of course. Start climbing.

With renewed vigor you rushed at the dragon, nimbly avoiding its deadly claws and flailing tail. You move into place behind the snarling beast as best you're able, and to the dragons surprise you begin to clamber atop it. Its claws cannot reach you this far back, and when it tries to snap at you with that razor-lined mouth you bash in its face with the Crest Shield. In anger, and perhaps panic, the dragon starts to rampage in earnest. It bucks and heaves, roars and breathes flames, it even tries to smash its back into the cliff face. Nothing works. You cling to it like a tick. Screeching, the scaly creature in a desperate ploy does something you had foolishly overlooked in your haste. It beats its leather wings and slowly begins to ascend into the sky.

You didn't care for heights. Especially when on the back of an infuriated dragon that wanted you dead and charred to a crisp. But to abandon the plan now was not an option. So, follow through with said plan and slice this lizards damned throat.

Whipping winds and cottony clouds wash over you as you slowly make your way to the dragons' horned head, while it soars over the Everfree. The dragon naturally doesn't make your climb easy. It pitches and yaws, trying to shake you loose and to your death. You can feel the bile rising in your gullet as you and the dragon cascade through the air. Seeing the ground race beneath you was making your head pound. You shake it off. Be queasy at a more opportune time. Swallowing your breakfast back down you tighten your grip on the dragons scales and delight at the thought of being back on the ground again when this monster was dead.

The dragon pulled a new stunt that sent your bubbling gut into back flips; it began to climb obscenely high into the clear blue sky. Oh no... At the height of its ascent the dragon sharply turned and shot back down to the earth like an archers arrow. You can feel your grip loosening, no surprise given how fast you're now flying. The idea going through your mind was most likely a bad one, but what choice did you have?

You drive your sword deep as you can into the dragons lower back and hope it sticks as a makeshift handhold. The dragon is...less than pleased with your idea. Its howl of pain was deafening even with the roaring of the wind swirling in your helmet. It pulls out of its dive-bomb, buzzing the treetops of the Everfree. But now that you're relatively righted you see a new, far more terrible problem. And if you see it, so does the raging dragon...

There running on the open field under you was Scootaloo. And she was heading right towards Fluttershy's cottage. You could already smell the smoke.

With a loud curse, you yank Astora's straight sword free and get into a low squat on the dragons back. The dragon didn't notice, it was too focused on the grim plan it had in mind. As quickly as you could you jerkily and haphazardly ran up the dragons back and through its beating wings. Though you were lower to the ground now than before a fall from this height still might prove fatal. The Crystal Caves all over again... Time to put this dragon down just as you did Seath.

You made it to the dragons neck and wrapped a hold of it tightly. The heat building within was intense. Move faster. MOVE FASTER. You glance back to the ground and see Scootaloo meeting up with her friends whom where waiting for outside. And the see you and the big problem you've brought with you.

"It's Anon!" Scootaloo points and yells in your direction. Her expression is one mixed with both happiness and fear.

"Get inside! Now!" You don't know if your voice reached with your helmet muffling you and the rushing wind surrounding you.

But the girls seemingly got the idea and hurriedly ran inside the tiny home. Not that it would prove much good against dragons fire. But you weren't going to let that happen. You scaled the dragons blistering hot neck, got into what you deemed the ideal spot, drew your sword and...felt a claw grab you around the waist. Your ribs popped and cracked in your chest and you could already taste the blood creep into your mouth and feel it dribble out of the corners. And you could see the terrible lizard opening its massive maw to deliver a fiery death to the young fillies. Without thinking you cast off the Crest Shield, its weight and girth weakening you already floundering grasp. The shield slammed into the ground below and you, now free of your burden, dug your armored fingers into the dragons neck-flesh.

You twisted your sword downwards and sliced at the claw restraining you. Wild, unclean, but ultimately useful slices that caused the beast to let go. But the fire was... Now! Strike now! You thrust upwards and pierce the dragons throat. You grasp the handle of your blade with both hands now and pull down with all your might. A torrent of crimson is the first thing that sprays over you and then...liquid flame comes bubbling and spilling out of the gory wound and great dragons mouth. The ghastly orange goo sets small fires the instance it splashes to the ground. Gurgling and choking on its own fluids the dragon veered off-course form Fluttershy's home and crash-landed into the earth just behind it, skidding for what seemed like miles. Finally it came to a rest, steam and fire springing up in its wake.

"Anonymous!" It was...Scootaloo. "Where is he?!"

You couldn't see them. You were pinned underneath the dragons carcass. One of your legs was definitely broken. You managed to free yourself, despite the searing pain in you shatter leg.

"Anon! Answer me! Please! Don't... Don't be dead!" It was Applebloom this time. She sounded to be completely panicked.

"Girls..." Your voice was weak and exhausted. But you were alive.

You shambled out of the dragons shadow and over its twisted and broken neck.

"Anon!"

All three young fillies squealed in delight and raced to you, they wrapped themselves around you in a binding hug, crying all the while.

"Girls, please, I am fine. Let me just rest a moment."

They didn't hear you or chose to ignore you because not one ceased in nuzzling you. With a tired chuckled you lifted your faceplate and sipped from the Estus once more. You could instantly feel your shattered bones and bruised organs beginning to mend. It still felt as if you fought a damn dragon though. But this soreness was worth it. It was worth it.

Around an hour later Applejack returned as did Fluttershy. You didn't think such small equines were capable of such anger. Well, Applejack anyway. Fluttershy was deathly quiet during the telling of the events. The three fillies were keeping silent behind you and staring a hole into the floor.

"Please, Lady Applejack, do not be to harsh on the children. It was my tale that inspired them so. Though I had no idea it would do such a job."

Applejack's glare wasn't as soul-searing as Fluttershy's from before but the point got across all the same.

"Harsh? Harsh?! Ya ain't seen harsh yet, part! Ah mean, honestly! Applebloom, what were ya thinkin'? Ah know ya want yer cutie mark, but dragon huntin'? Consarnit, bloom, what if Anon hadn't put down that dragon?! What then, huh?! Ya want me ta bury my only lil sister? Not that there would be much left ta bury after that monster was done with ya! Ah'll throw yer ashes inta the pond by the farm, howa 'bout that?!"

Fluttershy tried to put her forehoof around the hysterical, but ultimately justified, Applejack, but the hat-wearing pony slapped her friends hoof away. It was then you could see the tears running down Applejack's cheeks and hear the hiccups building in the back of her throat. Applebloom was loudly sobbing as this point and went to her older sibling, embracing her in a hug. Applejack didn't return it at first but within a heartbeat she had her forearms wrapped around the young filly.

"Big sis... Ah'm so, so, so sorry..."

Scootaloo sheepishly trotted out from behind you, sniffling and crying as well.

"Applejack, it was all my idea. I shouldn't have dragged Applebloom and Sweetie Belle into such a stupid stunt. I'm..." She couldn't continue her apology, her voice was too wracked by sobbing. In a move that surprised you more than you let on, Applejack waved Scootaloo over and brought the pegasus into the emotional hug.

After the crying and emotions died down a bit everyone seemed to be in a more agreeable mood.

With a heavy sigh Applejack wiped her nose and readjusted her strange hat. "Shoot, that's better now. Weight offa mah chest and all." Applebloom wore a slight smile as she stood next to her big sister. "Ah just don't know how Ah'm gonna tell Rarity about this... She's likely ta lock Sweetie Belle in a vault or somethin'."

Sweetie Belle paled a little back quickly went back to grinning. "Don't worry about my sister, Applejack. I can handle her. I'll make sure you're not in any trouble. That goes for you too, Scootaloo. Though... You Anonymous, I don't know... Uh, just don't come by Carousel Boutique for a few days or so."

You pat the unicorn on the head and nod in affirmation. You didn't know what a Carousel Boutique was anyway.

"Welp, that's settled. Come on gals, Ah'll get ya home now."

You raise a hand to get Applejack's attention before she can leave. Time to go through with this idea you had...

"Uh, excuse me, Lady Applejack, but...may I have a moment or two to speak with young Scootaloo? Privately?"

Every pair of pony eyes was on you after your request. And Scootaloo's are the size of dinner plates. Applejack didn't look to keen on the idea. You couldn't blame her you suppose.

"Yer not gonna tell her another crazy story are ya?"

Story? No, though this could be as "inspiring".

"No, this is a more...personal talk."

The orange pony purses her lips and gives you one final glare. "Just make it quick, ya hear?"

You bow in thanks, and then ask the little filly to follow you outside. She giddily accepts and trails after you. You return to the small hill from last night. It had a nice, calming view. Serene. Tranquil. A fitting place for the discussion that was going to take place. Scootaloo takes a seat on her haunches while you remain standing, hands clasped behind your back.

"So...what did you want to talk to me about, Anon? You're not gonna cry and yell to, are you?"

You stay quiet for a moment. You hadn't really heard her question.

"Scootaloo. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle told me of what you did when the dragon was upon you." She looked confused, like she couldn't quite remember the event in question. Considering the incident , that wasn't shocking. "Of how you distracted it while they fled to safety."

She wordless ooh's and nods, her fuchsia mane bobbing lightly.

"Now, I am not pleased that you foolishly went looking for danger." Scootaloo was crestfallen and averted her gaze to the grass-covered hill. "However."

She gets a spark back in her bright eyes and glance up at you.

"What you did in that moment was brave. Exceedingly brave. I did not think creatures such as you ponies would be capable of such courage. But one as you as you have proved me wrong."

There was a light blush playing on Scootaloo's cheeks. "I-I just...did what I thought was right. Thought it was what you or Rainbow Dash would do."

Did what she thought was right. Hmm, that sounded familiar...

"Mmm, indeed. Scootaloo, do you know why exactly I asked you out here? Besides to offer you praise?"

She shrugged her tiny shoulders.

"It is because you...remind me of someone."

"Who?"

"Myself."

The shock on her face is almost comical. You stifle a light chortle.

"I now offer you a proposition, young Scootaloo. Will you hear of it?"

Another wordless but energetic nod.

"Would you like to become my apprentice? My squire?"

The filly thinks for a moment, a moment that lasted all of one second. She excitedly bounds up from her spot and prances around you, whooping and cheering. Her little wings were beating as fast as a hummingbirds.

"A squire?! Me, a squire?! Yes, yes, yes! Of course! ...Uh, what's a squire?"

You stifle another fit of laughter.

"A squire is a lowly rank, but a stepping stone to knighthood itself."

Scootaloo's jaw dropped at the mention of knighthood.

"A knight?! Like-like you?! Me?! Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!"

"Yes, like...me."

Hopefully not exactly like you.

"But..." Scootaloo ceased her cheering and dancing. "Why me?"

"Did you not listen before? You remind me of myself in my youth. And that needs to be watched carefully. You are reckless, ambitious, and foolhardy. But along with that I see courage, bravery, and a will of solid iron. You could go on to do very great things with the proper guidance, Scootaloo. I merely want to see that your potential isn't wasted."

Scootaloo was uncharacteristically quiet now, most likely contemplating this offer with more thought now.

"Do...I have to answer right now?"

"No. I am simply giving you the choice."

The choice you never had.

The Little Knight and a Taboo Word

You slept that night. The first truly restful sleep you can recall having in...well, decades. And you dreamed. Of what? Of peaceful days and tranquil nights, of Scootaloo in full regalia with you at her side, of happiness without end. And then you awake quietly, the first few rays of soft sunlight filtering into your room. A mirthless chuckle escapes your helm. Dreams and nothing more...

You swung your still armored legs over the side of your bed. Fluttershy still didn't understand why you never took your armor off. You still didn't understand why she didn't sleep with a battle ax or other sharp instrument next to her bed. The relationship between you two was a strange one. But that wasn't important right now. Judging from how the sun was hanging in the sky it was still quite early in the day. And if you thought right...a light rapping came from your window.

Sure enough, little Scootaloo pushed open the window and poked her head inside. You had thought she would take more time in coming to such a heavy decision but she made it clear she wanted to be your squire. With such determination you didn't rebuke her into taking more time. And after you agreed you had told her to come back to Fluttershy's that next morning, bright and early. And here she was, a tad tired looking, but overall excited and eager.

"Good morning, Anonymous!" she greeted you with a chipper voice. You cleared your throat and turned to face her, the faceplate of your helm still down. "Oh! Right!"

She bows, with eyes closed, as best she can from her spot in the window. "Good morning, Sir Anonymous. How are you this fine day?"

"I am fine squire." You nod lightly. Proper etiquette was the first of her lessons.

She cracks open one of her eyes and grins, "Like that, right?"

"Yes, like that, very good," You laugh softly. "Did you do as I instructed before you came?"

"Yes sir, Sir Anonymous! I made sure to eat a big breakfast and stretch a lot!" She responded with a giddy headshake.

You give a wordless nod and get up from your bed. "Meet me at the hill. I will be with you shortly."

"Yes sir!"

Scootaloo bowed and scampered off while you left your room to prepare a light meal in the kitchen. After a simple helping of milk and bread, with a few fresh fruits to go with it, you stepped out of Fluttershy's cottage and into the warm sunlight. You breathed deep and tasted the mild air that spilling into your helm. Today was going to be a, hopefully, uneventful day. You didn't need to be fighting manticores and dragons every minute of the week. Your chest was still sore.

You head towards the hill to meet with Scootaloo and begin her lessons when you glance off to the left of the cottage. The...remains of the dragon were still there partially buried after the efforts of Fluttershy and her animals. She was...understanding of your need to slay the beast but she had refrained from speaking with you for the remainder of the night. You hoped her mood would improve with time.

Fluttershy was...a friend. As strange as that word was to you, at least when it came to a talking equine, it was becoming truer and truer as the days passed. And her giving you the silent treatment was uncomfortable. But you couldn't be worried about her right now. You needed to focus on this training session. Though, how much could you actually teach a pony-child with no thumbs...? Only one way to find out. Returning your attention to the task at hand, you look towards the hill not far in front of you now. Scootaloo is there as you asked. She's seated on her haunches and seemed to be staring into the middle distance.

"Squire, are you well?" You call out to the tiny pegasus and she visibly stiffens in surprise.

"S-Sir Anonymous! You scared me." She quickly exhales a breath to clam herself and turns around to face you. "So, are we gonna start now sir?"

"Aye, that we are."

Scootaloo grinned and sprang to her feet. Uh, hooves, rather. This was going to be a challenge. Hours upon hours pass. Scootaloo is a quick learner, which surprised you more than it should have. This filly had proven she had determination in spades, after all.

"Man, this is harder than I thought it was gonna be, sir." the pegasus wiped sweat from her forehead.

"Aye. Training is a tiring and difficult process for a beginner with no experience. However, you are doing exceedingly well. Take a small rest, if you must."

Scootaloo gives a shake of her head, her fuchsia mane whipping back and forth. "No, I'm ok. I want to keep going."

"...Very well. We'll move on to proper footwork then." Scootaloo nods and the lesson resumes.

You're quiet for a time as is Scootaloo. It's not an uncomfortable silence but you get the feeling your squire has something to say, but is hesitant to do so.

"Something on your mind squire?" You decided to break the slight tension for her.

Scootaloo audibly eeps and bashfully kicks at the ground. "W-Well, I was kinda wondering...if, maybe you'd..."

She mumbled something you didn't quite catch.

"Come now, speak up girl, no need to be shy around me."

Your squire gulped nervously. "Well, could you tell me about, you know, yourself? I mean, you did say I reminded you of you... I'd like to know more, sir."

She was curious about your past was she. You keep the sigh building in your gut to yourself. The past was the past and to dredge it up was pointless. But those eyes Scootaloo was giving you... Difficult to resist.

You roll your eyes. "...Very well. If you are truly interested I...suppose I could tell you."

The little filly beams at you and trots over, taking a seat in the grass at your feet. You join her on the ground and get comfortable. You clear your throat and--

"Oh! Uh, sir? Could you...take off your helmet? Please? It's just...sometimes it's hard to hear you clearly and I don't wanna miss a word of this!

Remove...your helm?

"Squire, I don't..."

Those big, purple eyes...

"Very well."

You unclasp the binding securing your helm to the rest of your armor and pull it free from your head. Scootaloo gasps when she sees your face for the first time, unobscured and unprotected. A normal response, the gasp. After all, you were missing an eye, the jagged scar running from the top of your forehead all the way down to your chin. Though missing might not be the right word. It was still in its socket, but it was damaged beyond repair. Now it was just stark white and blank.

"Sir Anonymous... I-I didn't..."

"Know? Of course not, how could you? But please, squire, it is fine. I feel no...shame from this scar. It is simply...a reminder. Now, let me begin this tale. It begins in my homeland; the land of Astora..."

--Several hours later--

The story is much, much longer than you expected it to be. Too long, really... Scootaloo was, well, the look on her face was one of sadness and sympathy. You...appreciated the fact that she cared.

"Wow... I mean, you went through so much, sir. I don't know how you could stand up against all that. Like when you lost your eye to...him. He was... It's just so sad. And how you...you died."

Telling her the truth about you being Undead was perhaps the hardest thing to explain. But she seemed to grasp the concept.

"Sir, I'm...sorry I made you--" You raise a hand and stop her from continuing.

"Please squire, you did not force me. Perhaps it is better you know of my history." Scootaloo nods softly but still looked quite forlorn. "Scootaloo, please, do not dwell too deeply on my past. Think of it in this manner: had I not gone through all those hardships I would have never met you."

"Well...I guess that's true."

You tussle the pegasus' mane lightly. She giggles and nuzzles your hand. To see her frown and be so distraught was...unacceptable. You always wanted to see her smiling that bright smile.

"Now, enough talk of the past, let us focus on the present. Let us resume the training." You say enthusiastically as you raise to your feet, helmet tucked under your arm.

"Right! Yes, sir!" Scootaloo gets to her hooves herself and--

Grrrrrrughhhh

Was that?

The little filly blushes and sheepishly looks to the ground.

"Ha ha. If you were hungry squire, you should have spoken up."

"I-I'm just a little starved is all..."

"Then we shall postpone training until our bellies are full. Does that sound acceptable?"

"Yep!"

You and your smiling squire headed back to Fluttershy's to acquire potations. It was a simple but enjoyable lunch in Fluttershy's kitchen. You did hope she didn't mind you rifling through her supplies and...odd ice-box contraption.

"So, Scootaloo, I have told you of my past. Would you indulge me with your own tale?"

Scootaloo seemed surprised by the request. "Uh... Well, I'm don't really have much to tell. I'm not anywhere close to being as old as you sir, so, I haven't done a lot."

"Mmm. Tis true, I suppose. Perhaps I should simply ask you questions, yes? So you do not have to scour your memories."

"That sounds fine, sir."

But what to ask? You didn't want to pry too deeply for fear of upsetting her but...there were things you wanted to know. Namely...

"May I ask about your parents?" Scootaloo is taken aback slightly by your request. And again she looks dour. And here you just said you hated seeing her like that. "Er... Never mind, I--"

"No, it's ok sir. You don't know so... My mommy and daddy, well, I don't know where my daddy is. And mommy is...in Elysium."

Elysium? That sounds like... Life was too hard on this child.

"I am...sorry, Scootaloo." That was all you could find yourself saying.

The filly shakes her head. "It's fine. I know mommy is in a better place. And...I never knew daddy so...I can't feel that bad about him. Besides, I'm a big filly! I can handle stuff like this! No problem! And Miss Cheerilee takes real good care of me."

Such a brave front she put on for all to see. Though you could tell, she wanted nothing more than to break down and cry. A quick flash of past memories races through your mind. It's you as a boy standing in front of a grave. Tears are streaming down your face, but you're doing your best to stem them. Teeth clenched and sniffling hard, your face is flushed red and you hands are tightened into shaking fists. The memory comes and goes as quickly as it arrived.

You gently shake yourself clear. Don't... You return your attention to Scootaloo. The question of her parents was only one of two burning queries you had. The second was the matter of her wings... You had already come this far.

"Another question, if I may." Scootaloo looks at you and gives you the ok to go ahead. "Your wings...do you...not know how to fly?"

Her little wings flutter momentarily before folding back to her sides.

"My wings...can't support my weight very well. I, uh, I've been told I'll never be able to fly properly..."

Without realizing it, you slam your fist down onto the table. "Nonsense! Do not let anyone ever tell you that. You are capable of anything you put your mind to. If you wish to fly, you simply must want it enough. With both heart and soul..."

Scootaloo is speechless after your sudden...outburst.

You look down and see you fist is trembling. You take a deep breath and slowly release it.

"My point is; strive to achieve your dreams, no matter what others may tell you."

"I...I understand, sir. I'll make extra sure to ask Rainbow Dash for more pointers and tips!"

You quietly nod and return to eating. Scootaloo does the same. Internally, you berate yourself. You should have left well enough alone. And now your squire was in, no doubt, a sour mood. You needed to fix that. But how? You can't teach her how to fly. Perhaps... Yes, that could work if they are available.

"Squire, would this world happen to have blacksmiths?"

The filly quickly gulps down a bit of hay in her mouth and thinks. "Uh... Yeah, there's blacksmiths. I mean, somepony had to make those suits of armor for those awesome Royal Guard ponies. Why do you want to know sir?"

You smile to yourself. This would be a fitting surprise. But you don't tell right now, don't want to spoil it.

"I...was simply wondering if there were any here with the skills to repair my arms and armor. That is all."

Scootaloo purses her lips and scrutinizes you. Like she could almost tell you were hiding something. But she soon goes back to being Simple Scootaloo with a simple shrug and a grunt. You smile and think to make time to ask Fluttershy where you might find a suitable smith for your...idea. Though now a new worry enters your mind. How would you pay for it? You doubted very much that these ponies used the souls of others as a means of currency. And you had no physical tender besides a few scant coins of copper, silver, and gold. That would most likely not be enough, if they even did accept...foreign money. You...could perform odd jobs, perhaps. Not the most glorious of propositions for a knight but you wanted to do this for Scootaloo very much, so you'd grin and bare it if it came to that.

Raising from the table, you reaffix your helm. "I believe it is time to return to your training. Provided you've had your fill?"

The filly devours the remaining bit of food on her plate and chugs the glass of juice to her side. The she lets loose with a raucous belch. A quick blush covers her cheeks as she embarrassingly covers her mouth.

"E-Excuse me. Heh heh heh..." You chuckle warmly and simply pat her on the head.

The two of you return to your spot on the hill and continue from where you left off. The next step; would be weapons training. This was a slightly easier problem to solve; you had many a dagger and short-sword. You simply need to find the right one to suit Scootaloo. You pulled out the Bottomless Box and rummaged through it. Anything bigger than the broken sword hilt would most likely throw off her natural agility and balance. Hmm... There had to be--Ah. Here we are. You pull the Parrying Dagger from the box and examine it. Yes, this would do. Light, perfect for thrusting and slashing attacks, and once Scootaloo had properly learned to parry this would be come a fine weapon for her.

"Here you are, squire." You carefully hand her the dagger, which she takes in her mouth just as gently. She forms a tight bite on the daggers grip.

"Ick, kinda groady-tasting, sir." Her voice was naturally muffled with the weapon in her mouth but you understood her well enough. Though you didn't know what groady meant. No matter, she would get used to the, uh, taste of the weapon.

Soon enough she's following-up with more complicated maneuvers after simple slashing and thrusting. She's taken to the dagger quite well. That's reassuring but, you did honestly hope she would never have to use it. At least not until she became a little older. No child should ever have to be forced to fight. Another hour or so pass in a comfortable quiet. And you can tell Scootaloo is exhausted. A light sheen of sweat adorns her tiny body.

"That is enough for today, squire." Scootaloo looks surprised and mumbles something you can't quite make out.

She stabs the parrying dagger into the ground at her hooves. "Bu-But I can still keep going!" She pants and her tongue lolls just slightly out of her mouth.

"Squire, you are about to collapse. You did remarkably well for your first day."

"But that's just it! You'll be...gone in a few days.

That...was true. Maybe. There's truly no guarantee that was going to pass, it was simply the preferred outcome. Or, it was... No. You...still needed to get back to Lordran. Needed but steadily not wanted as time passed. This land had bewitched you. And the few, scant inhabitants you had met only deepened it. You...were beginning to not want to go home. You were beginning to want to stay. Such a selfish notion. You couldn't stay in Equestria. You were not of their world. You simply didn't belong, no matter how much you had grown accustomed to it. With a light sigh you push those thoughts away from your mind and re-focus on Scootaloo.

"That...is possibly true, squire. I may be returning home in a few days time, but nothing is set in stone. I may end up staying longer then anticipated should the meeting with your princess lead nowhere."

Scootaloo gives a little, hopeful smile.

"So, do not think you need to rush training. We will have time."

She bows respectfully. "Does...that mean I should head home then?"

"Yes. Take the remainder of the day to...frolic if you'd like."

"Frolic? Tee hee, you take funny sometimes, sir." With a giggle Scootaloo scampers off to do...whatever it is filly children do.

As for yourself you return to Fluttershy's cottage. To have a moment of relaxation. You take a seat on her couch, as it's the only piece of furniture that's large enough to support you. You merely sit and rest. The events of the day replaying through your head. Though they are cut short when you hear the front door creaks open. And in trots Fluttershy messy with dirt and grass stains. Her hooves...are tinted a light red as well. Attending to the slain dragon, no doubt.

"Oh... Hello, Anonymous." Fluttershy is a soft-spoken as always. Perhaps more so in this moment.

"Hello Fluttershy."

At least she's speaking to you now.

"Are you...finished with the dragon?"

The meek pegasus lightly nods and walks past you and over to her stove. She grabs a pail from next to it, walks to her sink and begins filling it with water. Grasping the handle in her mouth Fluttershy returns to the outside. You choose not to follow after her, but from you spot on the couch you can hear her sniffling and huffing lightly. Wishing the blood from her hooves must be a...new experience. You can't even recall the first time you had to wipe the blood from your sword. You are grateful for the fact your faceplate is down. You didn't want Fluttershy seeing the grimace on your face. The front door creaks open again and with pail in mouth Fluttershy comes back in, her eyes are just slightly reddened and puffy.

You want to say something but nothing comes to mind. And Fluttershy herself says nothing as she pass by again to return the pail. Continuing the silence, she quietly flies up to her room.

"Anonymous... Could you...come up here please? I mean, if that's alright with you."

Inviting you into her bedroom? That was...strange. And wouldn't be proper to accept on your part. However it sound like she wanted to talk privately and personally. Polite manners would have to step-aside in this instance. Rising from the couch you head up the nearby stairs to Fluttershy's bedroom. You see she's seated at a vanity mirror, brushing her mane, as you crest the stairs.

"You wish to speak to me, Lady Fluttershy?" She stops brushing and turns to face you.

"Yes... I...I'm sorry. About not talking to you. It's just...I'm not used to...death. At least not in such a violent way. But I understand you absolutely had no choice but to...k-kill him. He would have done horrible things if you hadn't stopped him. Really you..." Getting up from the mirror the pegasus trots up to you and rests a hoof against your leg.

"You really are a hero, Anon."

You feel your chest tighten when you hear the word... That word...

"I am...no hero." The words barely escape the metal confines of your helmet. But Fluttershy manages to hear them.

"But...Anonymous you are! You beat that mean dragon! You're being a role-model to Scootaloo! You're a genuine knight! A hero!"

Your teeth clench, and you can hear your heart beat pounding in your ears.

"I am no hero! Do not say that word to me!" Your shouts echo through the small cottage.

Fluttershy's eyes widen in shock and she takes a step back. "Bu-But why? You are a hero. I'm sure Scootaloo sees you as one. And...so do I. Why would you say you're not?"

"Because...a true hero wouldn't have entertained the thoughts I have..."

Do you tell her this? Will she understand? Would you jeopardize this friendship?

"I don't...what do you mean, Anon?"

Tell her...

"Lady Fluttershy... I... I held the fate of my world in my very hands not to long ago."

She doesn't seem to grasp what you mean but remains quiet.

"And in those final moments... I thought, for just an second, to let the world fall to the darkness. To just...not care anymore."

"But...You didn't right? You didn't let your world down did you?"

"I don't believe I did. Ultimately, I followed through with what I had come to believe in. With what I had been told I was meant to do." A heavy sigh resounds from your helmet.

"Then that proves it. You are a hero. In the end, you did the right thing. And that's what matters."

"...I don't truly know if I believe that, Lady Fluttershy. I should not have even mused about the thought at all... The mere prospect of my people, my home, everything falling should have keep such thoughts away. But it did not. So, until, I can resolve these feelings about myself and my ability to...care, please, refrain from calling me a...hero."

Quietly Fluttershy nodded and walked back towards you, again resting a hoof on you leg. "Alright, Anon. I'll respect you request but... for what it's worth I already think you care plenty about others. Scootaloo is proof enough of that."

With that the pegasus leaves you alone with your thoughts. Thoughts of the day you might be able to call yourself worthy of the title of hero...