The Equestrian Traceby WafflegodmanChaptersIt's good to be awake again... I think? Acquiring Swag (The British kind).Time to fly.Crouching prey, hidden predator. In other words...Some roses have no thorns.It's good to be awake again... I think? It's good to be awake again... I think? Chapter 1 It's good to be awake again... I think? This is the only time that you will ever see a Vocabulary section in this fic. Parkour- The physical discipline of movement, the definition is commonly shortened to 'Getting to point A from point B in the most efficient way possible'. Freerunning- The physical discipline of movement, but unlike Parkour, which stresses efficiency, it stresses creativity. Parkour, and Freerunning are so similar that moves are named the same, and participants of the discipline share the same title. Traceur- Originally just tracer, it is the title of the participants of Parkour, and Freerunning. "How long has it been? How long have I been in this darkness? How long has it been since I last moved? Someone! Answer ME!" I screamed. I believe this was the 472nd time I did that, but something was different this time. It felt like I actually spoke. Slowly, my blackened world was filled with a blinding light. I threw my arm in front of my face in an attempt to dim the light. After a while, my eyes adjusted to the change in brightness. I scanned the room. It was strange, not the room, but the fact that I could see again. It had been ages since I was able to see anything, in fact, I had started to forget what color was what. The room itself looked like any modern hospital room, save for one crucial difference... instead of doctors, and nurses surrounding me, there where griffons. "Hello... Can. You. Understand. Me." Asked a griffon to my right. Its voice was very feminine. "Uh... yeah, yeah. Can I ask you something?" I asked. "By all means." She responded. "Right... Are you really a griffon, or is it just me?" I asked. "I am indeed a griffon." She responded with a bit too much cheer present in her voice. "Oh! Right then." I said right before loosing conscientiousness again. After a countless number of hours, I woke up again. During my lucid slumber, I went over the scenario that had just happened. At first I was shocked, but then I slowly convinced myself that what I saw was real, and eventually got over the whole situation entirely. I needed some excitement. My life before all this was entirely too boring. All I had to keep me entertained really was Parkour, and the internet. After waiting around for a bit, I decided I wanted to wake up, and as soon as I felt that resolve, the blackened world that I had become accustom to was filled with light yet again, and just like last time, I was surrounded by griffons. "Hello." Said the same griffon from before, in a slightly worried tone. "Hi." I responded. "Are you feeling alright." She asked. "Uh... I think so." I answered. "You don't feel dizzy, or faint?" She asked, presumably because of my blackout from earlier. "Nope." I returned. "So... you are absolutely sure that you are feeling perfectly normal?" She asked once more. "Really, are we going to be playing that game?" I asked. "Wh... What do you mean? What game?" She responded with surprise evident in her voice. "The game where you keep asking the same question, and I keep giving you the same answer." I responded, being careful to not let my impatience become evident in my voice. "Oh! Sorry, its just that... well... you know." "No, I'm pretty sure I don't." I said calmly. "Well, you are one of a kind. Completely new. There has never been any sign of your species present on Equis. It's amazing really." She said, slowly becoming lost in her thought. I noticed, that the other griffons had long since left to do whatever griffons do. "So... do ya mind telling me what is going on?" I inquired in a nonchalant tone, as I reexamined my surroundings. "Well, one of the many freelance explorers, that the king hires to map previously unexplored areas of Equis, found an artifact in the massive badlands of southern Equestria, and with permission from the Equestrian counsel of foreign affairs, and the allowance of the Equestrian center of history and science, she was able to bring said artifact back here. During analysis of the artifact, a magical rune was triggered... or so we think, and you appeared in place of the artifact. Needless to say, the whole of Equis was surprised. Anyway, we decided to wait for you to wake from your coma, and with funding being provided by both Equestria, and the Gryphonian government, we where able to maintain your health, and physique, as well as study your anatomy." She informed. "You don't skip out on details, do you?" I said with a smile. Griffon or not, it was good to have a half-decent conversation with someone other than myself. "So... what now?" I asked. "That's right! I nearly forgot. There are a few questions I have to ask you, then I'll take you to the king." She said. "Okay... Shoot." I said. "What is your name?" She asked. "Kraconious Vonferdinaned-Delapsian Zephoshexeed the fifth... but people just call me Kraken for short." She stared at me blankly for a second, but broke her surprise by writing something down on a piece of parchment with an old fashioned quill. Interesting, they have tech in the hospital that is on par with the stuff back home, but they still use parchment, and quills. "Right... what was your former occupation, assuming you had one?" she asked. "I worked at a local eatery specializing in oriental food." I answered. "Okay... only a couple more questions. Did you have a mate?" She asked. "Uh... no." I answered. "What's your favorite color?" she asked. "Red, but I also have a preference toward blue." I responded. "My address is 5600 cloudpark, come visit sometime." She said, leaving with a giggle. What just happened? "Hey, lover boy." I heard a slightly scratchy yet distinctively female voice say to my left. "Get up." I looked to my left, and saw another griffon looking at me. "Okay." I said, sitting up. "Mind telling me what just happened?" I asked. "My sis is a flirt, and you are a chump." She said. "Fair enough. Mind telling me what your name is?" I asked. "Gilda, don't wear it out." She said, walking away, but instead of following her sister she paused at the doorway. "Are you coming or not?" She asked. "I would follow, but I kinda need a pair of pants." I said. "For what?" She asked. "Just get me a pair of pants." I ordered in a non-aggressive tone. She stood her ground for a bit, but when it was clear I wasn't gonna move, she gave in. "Fine, just hold on a sec." After a few minutes of waiting, she came back with my black cargo trousers, a white T-shirt, and my sneakers. "Here." She said throwing them on the bed. "Now lets go." she said, turning to leave. "Yep one sec." I responded. "Well, whenever your ready, just leave the building. I'm gonna go wait outside." She said, clearly frustrated. Once she had left, and I was sure the coast was clear, I pulled on my trousers, laced up my shoes, slipped on my shirt, and left the room. It wasn't too difficult finding the way out. I opened the door, and took in the scope of the place. As far as the eye could see, floating islands, like in the movie Avatar, with cities carved into there faces, dotted the sky. Connecting each island was a series of smaller islands, and rocks. Two things were going through my mind. Epic, and playground. I was going to sketch this place up even if it killed me. "Ready?" Gilda asked, breaking me out of my daze. "Yeah." I said turning toward her. "Where do we go?" I asked. "Up there." She said pointing with her beak in the direction of a grand palace carved into an island, and quite large one at that, off in the distance. It was a substantial distance away, about a mile, but even at that distance, the size of the palace made it seem so much closer. "Alright... we're gonna have to take the long way." She said with a sigh. "The long way?" I said confusedly. "Yeah. Normally I'd just fly there, but we're gonna have to follow that winding road about half way around the city in order to get to the castle." She informed. "Or, you could fly right there, and I'll run." I offered. "That's a fine Idea and all, but I have to keep an eye on you." She said. "Who said you weren't?" I asked. "In order to keep an eye on you, I have to see you. If you run halfway 'round the city while I wait at the castle, I'm sure I'd lose sight of you." she said. "Then don't lose sight of me." I said. "What's that me..." But her voice was drowned out by the sound of my feet hitting the ground. It's been awhile since I last ran. "Come back here you bastard!" I heard Gilda scream behind me. I ignored it, and found my route. I sprinted toward a building, taking a deep breath. Once I was about a meter away from the wall of the building, I jumped, and planted my right foot on its wall. I then proceeded to run up the wall, grabbing the edge of the roof, and throwing myself on top of it. I kept up my sprint, and jumped the distance between the building I was on, and the one I had just been on. One more jump, and I was on the large island where the palace was located. When I hit the ground, I dropped into a roll, minimizing the amount of damage that I would have normally taken from such a jump. I popped out of my roll, and kept sprinting. I ran up another wall, then another. I decided to show off, and did a side-flip over a park bench, length wise. I came up to a railing, and jumped on top of it, springing myself upward onto the next levee. I slid under a railing, and vaulted the next one in my path. I dived over a fountain, soaking my shirt, and rolled out of it. One more levee up, and I would be on the same plane as the palace. To my right was a wall, in front of me was a thousand foot drop into the ocean. There was only one thing to do. I placed one foot on the wall, and continued my run horizontally until I reached the end of the wall, where I proceeded to launch myself forward... its times like these that I like to think to myself 'SCREW YOU NEWTON!' A minute more of a flat out sprint, and I arrived at my destination. That run was one of the best ones I've had in my entire life, but it missed something. As I stood there, I looked around, and saw a very mad Gilda flying at top speed right at me. "You BASTARD!" I heard Gilda scream as she rammed into me, sending me flying to the ground, and when I hit said ground... I blacked out. One thought kept passing through my mind as I lay unconscious... I really hope that blacking out doesn't become a regular deal for me. Author's Note Sup! First of all, I'd like to say that you shouldn't expect a lot of authors notes, secondly, I'm sorry for the short chapter length. Now that that's settled, if you got any questions, don't be afraid to ask. I hope you enjoyed the chapter, and expect more. Acquiring Swag (The British kind).Chapter 2 Acquiring Swag (The British kind). "I'm sorry." I heard Gilda whisper as I came to. "I didn't mean too." She whispered again. I opened my eyes, and took in the sight of Gilda looking out the window. She had tears welling up in her eyes, and it was obvious she didn't know I was awake. "Cheer up." I said with a hoarse voice as I sat up. Gilda froze, and a look of shock was plastered onto her face. "You alright?" I asked. Gilda's look of shock was soon replaced with anger. "You son of a bitch! How long have you been awake?" She asked, rushing over to me, and pressing her forehead against mine in a predatory manner. "Long enough to know that you could use a friend." I answered. Gilda stumbled for words, and backed off a bit. She took a deep breath, and looked out the window. There was an awkward tension in the air, but that was broken when Gilda let out a sigh, and laid her head down on my lap, still looking out the window. "So... what's wrong?" I asked. "I broke three of your ribs." She said nonchalantly. "Is that all? Well, that's nothing to cry about." I said, trying my best to cheer her up. "That's not what I was crying about." Gilda responded without a hint of emotion in her voice. "What were you crying about?" I asked. Gilda sighed, and pointed out the window. When I looked at what Gilda pointed out, I was awe struck. It was quite possibly the most beautiful rainbow I'd ever seen in my life. "A rainbow." I said. "Yeah..." Gilda said. "Just a rainbow." Things had gotten weird enough, so I didn't push the subject. We just sat there in silence. You know... I really hate silence. Its devastating... silence that is. The calm before the storm. The silence that ensues when you are too close to an explosion. I really hate silence, because I know that silence never brings anything good. Its like a blade is placed at your throat, and you can do nothing but wait for the end to come... and that's not even the worst part! Time starts to become distorted in the quiet. Things slowdown, and details become evident. You become aware of every little thing! Its terrible. "Are you alright?" Gilda asked, emancipating me from my trance. "Yeah... why wouldn't I be?" I asked in return. "Well... you just looked really... how do I describe this?" She took a second to think it over. "You looked fucking pissed." She said. That's not what I expected. "Really? Hmmm. Well whatever." I brushed my surprise off, then, as if the flood gates of logic broke, and the water of knowledge poured right into my miniscule cranium, a question formed. "How did you keep me in such good condition, and how can I sit up if my ribs are suppose to be broken?" I asked. "Magic, what else?" She informed as if it was common knowledge... which it may very well be now that I think of it. "Magic eh... I suppose anything can happen." I said to myself. "So, magic... like riding a broom, and waving a wand, magic?" I asked. "What? No, more like the kind that involves a unicorn, and a shit-ton of money." She informed. Unicorns... motherfucking unicorns... "You know, now that we're on the subject, I should tell you what the plan is. Right, I was going to take you to the king, and he would have figured out a way for you to pay back your debt... but things have changed. In a weeks time, there is going to be a trial to determine whether or not you are stable enough to be allowed into modern society. Also, thanks to your injuries, the king's in debt, and fucking political shit is going on." She informed. Fucking political shit... sounds like home. "Why am I having the trial?" I asked. "You ran off, and caused quite a commotion the other day. Hell, you flew without wings, and nearly gave a few passersby a heart attack!" She scolded. "I flew?" I asked. "What? Are you saying you didn't?" she asked. Ha, I must be getting good if people... griffons, think I'm flying when I run. "Of course not, all I was doing was running." I informed. "Then how the hell did you get on top of that building when I was chasing you!?" She asked. The application of pressure against a flat surface at a 45 degree angle, changing my forward momentum into upward momentum. "I ran up the wall." I answered. "Bullshit. I say it was magic." She said with determination. "And, I say it was science. Regardless, I'm gonna need a few things if I plan on sticking around here, and for the trial." I answered, getting out of bed. Luckily for me, they left my pants, and shoes on, but I lacked my shirt. "Alright, but thanks to your outburst yesterday, I'm being forced to stay by your side until the trial... so no fucking shenanigans, alright?" she asked. "Not a problem." I answered "So... where's my shirt?" I asked. "My sis jacked it. You probably won't get it back." She informed. "Alright then, we need to find a tailor... and cash now that I think of it." I said, mapping out my priorities. "Princess Mi Amore Cadenza has donated a couple hundred standard-C to you." Gilda informed. "Standard-C? And moreover, who's Princess Mi Amore Cadenza?" I asked, lost in terminology. "Standard currency... aka the shit that gets you shit. And, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza is one of the three princesses of Equestria, and apparently, a supporter of intellectual endeavors." She informed. "You know what? You sound really different when you talk about this Equestria place." I informed. "What of it? It's none of your business so lay off." She said in a sudden blast of anger. "Your one touchy she-la, Ain't ya?" I asked in a cheeky Australian accent... just to piss her off more. "Don't push your luck you prick." She threatened. "Oooo, kitty got claws. Meow." I said, making a scratching gesture. Gilda then proceeded to slash my right arm with her claws... which are much bigger then any kitties. "You know, I think I want out of this relationship... it's getting a bit abusive." I said in a monotone voice, as I watched blood pour from the gashes. "What the fuck! I attack you, and blood is pouring from your arm, yet you still make a joke. Maybe you are unstable." She informed. "Which is why I need some gear, and an escape route." I informed. "What?" She said with shock evident in her voice. "What? That's a joke." I hope. "You gotta take things less seriously or you'll get an aneurism. Can griffons even get an aneurism?" I asked. "Punk." She said, looking back out the window. "Yeah, and don't forget it. Anyway, can I get something to clean this up, or do I have to lick it up?" I asked. "Why the hell would you lick it up?" She asked "That's nasty." "It's better then having it drip everywhere." I informed. After a couple minutes of first aid, and a few more traded insults, I was ready to get out of that place. "So, where's the nearest tailor?" I asked. "Just down that way a bit." She said. "He's a friend of mine, makes most of my gear when I head out." She informed. "Head out? I thought you worked at the hospital with your sister." I said. "Do you really think I could work at a hospital? I'll answer that for you, hell no. I'm an adventurer... actually, I'm THE adventurer now that DD is retired." She informed. "Who's DD?" I asked. "An old hag that writes novels loosely based on her old adventures... I say loosely based because she has to tone down her books so they can be more appealing to a larger crowd." "You act as if you know her." "She's an acquaintance. I was gonna surprise a friend awhile back by introducing her to her, but... lets just go." She said, getting drastically more timid. "You alright?" I asked. "Yeah, yeah... just go." She said. From there, we made the rather short journey in silence. When we arrived at the tailor, I was rather surprised with how well off he seemed. It appears as though clothing is more popular then what I thought. " 'ello. Whaddya buying." A large griffon asked gruffly. "Clothes." I answered. "No shit, ya hairless chimp, I mean what kinda clothes. So... spit it out." He demanded. "What kind of clothes are there." I responded in a deep, calm, voice. I was pissed off at this guy's attitude, and he was going to reap what he sewed... whether he want's to or not. "Uh..." He stumbled at my sudden change of manner. I gave a cheeky smirk. "I asked what kind of clothes are there?" I asked once again. "We have... um..." He stumbled again. "Listen prick." I said in calm, and pleasant voice. "I don't know if your fucked in the head, but you're going to shapeup a bit, or I'm leaving this shithole, and taking my business elsewhere." I said, keeping as much pleasantness in my voice as I could. "Go... just go... please don't hurt me." He cowered. Okay, maybe I over did it. All of a sudden, another griffon burst out of a changing room, and started squirting the big oaf with a water bottle. "Get, get!" He yelled as the bigger griffon ran off. "And don't come back tell you've changed your attitude you little rascal!" He yelled in an overly flamboyant tone. "Now, what can I do for you sugar-plumb?" He asked, addressing me. "Oh... uh..." I stumbled for words at the site that took place before my eyes. "Listen prick." He said in a clam, and overly flamboyant voice "I don't know if your fucked in the head, but your going to..." He started to chuckle, and struggled holding back his laughter. Once I realized his joke, I had a hard time holding back a chuckle myself. "Alrighty. The name is Gregory." He said, extending a claw. "Hi, You can call me Kraken." I greeted, returning his gesture with a hand shake. "So, what can I do you for stranger." He said in a flirty manner. "I just need a new shirt, and possibly a pair of shoes." I informed. "But, due to my uniqueness, I can't just up, and buy something from a market somewhere." "Well, your certainly unique." He said, eyeing me. I'm beginning to feel a bit uncomfortable without my shirt on. "Tell you what big boy, since your a friend of prissy, I'll make you a new pair of shoes on the house, but the shirt will cost you." He informed. "Prissy?" I asked. "That's me, and if you ever mention that name again, I'll kill you." Said Gilda. "Right, so lets get to it." Said Gregory in a far too excited manner. Gregory led me into another room, and pulled out measuring tape. "This is going to be fun." He said, letting out a borderline evil laugh. It felt like I was thrown into a tornado, and ten seconds later I had on a white dress shirt, and a pair of fine dress shoes. "So, what do you think?" Gregory asked. The clothing was of above average quality, and it felt very comfortable, but the shoes wouldn't do when I have to run. "I love the clothes, but I'm a bit of an athlete... I guess I'd prefer something more maneuverable... and warmer." I said. "Alright, I can do that." Gregory said, pulling on a pair of hipster glasses he got out of nowhere, and biting down on a pencil... then, it was back into the whirlwind. As fast as that wind came, it left, and I was left adorned with some interesting clothing. I say interesting, because it's not exactly what you'd think of for an athlete to wear in cold whether, but It was certainly comfortable... and it would definitely do the job. It was basically a white long sleeved T-shirt, with a black, hooded robe draped over it, kept on with a belt around the waist... it reminded me a lot of the robes Jedi wear. The shoes where... they where something. They looked like your typical hiking boots, but they felt much lighter. Beyond that, they seemed to have been color coordinated with my new clothes, taking on a black and white color scheme. "This is... awesome." I said. "Good, It'll cost you a hundred Talons." He informed. I looked at him, then I looked at Gilda with confusion plastered on my face. Why the hell would anybody need a hundred talons? "A hundred Talons is equal to Fifty standard-C." Gilda informed... much to my relief. I paid the fee, and headed out. "So... what now?" Gilda asked. I flicked my hood up, and took a deep breath. The air was thin, and cold. I liked it... the dry taste of it reminded me of iron. "Do you want to do anything?" I asked, not foreseeing anything I would need right away. "I uh... no, not really." She answered. "Alright then, how 'bout we pay a visit to your sister?" I asked. "That's cool, I should visit her anyway." She returned. "Alright...ONWARD HO, PRISSY!" I yelled. I think I'm going to like it here. Author's Note Sorry their isn't any Parkour in this chapter, but plot development comes first, and even though you might not see it now, I hinted at quite a few big bombshells just waiting to go off. Anyway, I know I said there wouldn't be a lot of authors notes, but I probably told a mistruth. There will be tons of authors notes, like, you won't believe how many there will be. Just wait, you'll see. Time to fly.Chapter 3 Time to fly. It has been uneventful... this world, and the one I left behind. The sky has grayed, and the creatures that inhabit it are no longer a wonder inducing phenomenon. Three days... that's all it took. I've seen a unicorn, as well as a manticore, and I couldn't care less. The trial keeps becoming more and more like a sentencing, and it looks like I won't be freeman for much longer if this keeps up. Gilda is okay, if not a bit aggressive, and her sister is completely average... she's not even that flirty anymore. Action... that's what I need. I've been stuck on the same rock for too long. I haven't been able to run, or do anything worth while. My senses are more tuned, I started thinking more critically as of late, and I have a multitude of questions that I would love to ask. I've tried a couple of times, but Gilda, and her sister, who is actually named Isis, refuse to answer me. It has taken quite a toll on my mood. "What's up?" Gilda asked as she approached me. I'm not sure. I'm sitting here, looking out the window, with the smell of mint emanating from my tea, stinging my nose. "Dunno." I responded, simply because I had nothing else to say. "Okay... how ya doing?" She asked. "I don't know." I informed, my mint tea's aroma once again stung my nose as I inhaled. It was quiet for awhile. Not an awkward quiet, but a comforting silence. It enveloped me, and let me relax. "How much combat experience do you have?" Gilda asked. I was a bit stunned by the randomness of the question. I thought for a second, but after a time, and with a flick of my wrist, I waved off the question. "This is serious!" Gilda said, forcing my head to the side so that I would face her. It was serious. Her eyes were cold, and her expression... unnerving. "Well, have you ever been in a fight?" Gilda asked. I smirked. Delivering Asian food is a dangerous job after all. "Why are you smi..." Gilda started, but I put a finger on her beak, and nodded. "Fuck you." she said in a hushed voice after some time. Apparently she doesn't like being touched. "Sure, but you'll have to take me to dinner first." I responded, she did walk right into that one after all, which got me slapped across the face. "...So, whats with the question." "I've been home for way to long, and I want to get off this rock. DD, you remember me telling you about her right? Well, she's in town, and she secured us a ship... we just have to go through a few security check points to get to her." I would be lying if that didn't sound like a good time, but I was apprehensive at the fact that Gilda expects conflict, usually I'd just keep running in this scenario, but with a companion, that might not be an option. "Okay. Have you got a plan?" I asked. "Yeah, little miss pervert went ahead and is with DD now. I just have to get there with you intact." She said. I wasn't sure if I should be insulted at that statement... I mean, does she think she has to protect me. It was a bit of blow to my self-esteem. "Alright. let's go." I said. "We should leave at night." "I'd rather go now." I responded, getting up from my relaxed position... I really needed to leave this rock as soon as possible, my nerves were killing me. I shot the tea down like a cheap glass of vodka, and started for the door, placing the cup I was using on a nearby coffee table. "Hold on. What do you think you're doing?" Gilda asked, taking her place at my side, using her wings to balance on her lioness legs as she walked with me. Whenever she stands on two legs it surprises me... she always seems so small when she stands normally on all fours, but when she gets up she is nearly at eye level with me. I'd be lying if I said she didn't look a bit imposing, if not straight up scary, when she took that position. "I thought we were heading toward a ship... by the way, when you say ship, do you mean airship, or the boring kind?" "I never agreed to leave now... also, its the boring kind." She said. "Well I can't see at night, therefore I can't run." I informed in the hopes of encouraging her to leave now. "But we can sneak around better at night!" Gilda protested, stumbling in her fluster, leaving me to catch her. I swear I saw a blush on her feathered cheeks while she was in my arms, but she pushed me back a bit, and retook her bipedal stance from before. "Alright... lets make a compromise, 'kay?" I asked, a devious plan forming in my ever so cruel mind. "Okay. What is it?" I took my hooded cloak off, and threw it on a chair... I appreciated the warmth, but I couldn't run for shit with it on. I then turned around, my back facing Gilda. "Wrap your arms around my neck." I ordered. "Wh... Why?" "Just do it Prissy." I ordered in a deceptively calm voice, negating the harshness of my words. She complied. It was nice... being held that is. It was almost as if she was embracing me. I would have took more time to enjoy the novel nature of the action, but time is a precious commodity, and I was running out it. I jerked forward, throwing Gilda up on to my back. I then took a firm hold of her legs. She was light... I suppose that is to be expected considering she was half bird... hollow bones and all that... but it still surprised me. I then bolted out the door, kicking it off its hinges. "WHAT THE FUCK!" Gilda yelled. "Relax." I said. I chuckled a bit as I bolted across a giant wooden bridge connecting the floating rocks... I mean, seriously, I was giving a piggy back ride to a Griffon. "You expect ME to relax right now?!" Gilda yelled, letting a subtle whimper of fright escape her. I looked over my shoulder so I could look at Gilda, at the same time I slowed my pace so that I could still avoid bystanders using my peripheral vision. Her eyes were closed tight, and her talons were digging into my chest. "It's okay, trust me." I tried to encourage her, picking my pace back up. "How can I, you lied to me." "Just tell me where to go." I said, my voice sounding calm as I spoke... even though I wasn't. "The docks." That was informative. "Listen..." I was going to try to calm her down a bit more, though I'm not even sure why she's so scared. "...you have wings right?" I asked. "Yeah." "So you can fly away anytime you want." I informed. "There is no need to be scared." "I'm not scared!" she said. "Then whats with the whimpering?" I asked. "..." "Come on now, its okay... I'm your friend, right?" "But, you lied to me." she said quietly. I couldn't respond to that. I did lie in a way, but it was for her own good... right? "I'll get us to the ship, and you guide me, that's a compromise." I said. I heard another whimper. Gilda pressed her head into my back, and I felt a warm dampness form on my shirt. Note to self, Gilda has some serious issues. I ran as fast as I could. Guards followed for a good twenty minuets, but they couldn't keep up with me. I found a clever hiding spot in an ally with some cracks in the ground. I set Gilda down, and looked her over. She had cried herself to sleep. Something was off about her today, besides the sudden out burst... she seemed so much more... depressed. I need to focus. I had no idea where to begin looking for the docks. I hadn't seen any before, so I was at a loss. after a minute or two though, I thought I heard the sound of flapping canvas, and the creaking of wood. I listened more carefully, and found that the sound was coming from below the island. I looked at a crack in the ground, and saw light. I peered through the opening, and was awe struck. Ships of all sizes were all gathered around a land mass right below me. That had to be the docks. I moved over to Gilda, and shook her gently. "Wake up." I whispered. She stirred, but her eyes were shut. "Come on, I found the docks." I said, a bit louder. Her eyes opened slowly, and she seemed a bit surprised, but then her features calmed, and she looked like she had something to say. "Are you alright?" I asked. "Yeah... I... I want to apologize." She said, her head hung low as she looked at the ground. "Why? You didn't do anything." "But I did! I freaked out on you!" "Its alright... as long as you are okay." "I'm not okay though. I forgot to take my... my meds." Gilda informed. That was not what I was expecting. "What are the meds for? You are going to alright... right?" "Yeah, yeah. I'll be fine. The meds are for... well... you see...." "Its alright." I encouraged. "I... I have some uh... some minor, actually, make that sever uh... I have some serious shit going on." She said. I started to feel extremely guilty. I treated her horribly... I was trying to be funny but.... "Come on, you saw the docks right? Lets go." She said, rising, and walking to the edge of the ally. "Yeah." "Do you know how you are gonna get down?" She asked. I didn't have time to answer before we were surrounded by Griffons, each with a jacket embroidered with the word GRYPHON... they were cops. "You know what Gilda." I said. "What?" "How about you leave, and meet up with me in... um... Equestria is it? Yeah, Equestria." I more told her than suggested. "I can't leave you behind." Gilda informed in an almost pleading manner. "Just go prissy." I said, once again using a calmer voice to negate the insulting nature of the offending nickname. She paused to look at me, wanting to say something, but I nodded to her, a smirk growing on my lips. She looked at me a bit longer, but then flew away... none of the Gryphons gave chase to her. I crouched down, placing one hand on the ground, preparing for any attack that may come. Then I smiled a truly menacing smile, and asked a very important question. "Who wants to play first?" Author's Note I am SO sorry for the time frame between chapter releases. Seriously, its absurd. Furthermore, you get this chapter after a couple of months... THIS chapter... a SHORT as fuck TRANSITION chapter. I feel so bad. If its any consolation, I got my life together, and learned a valuable lesson... don't ever date EVER. Also, you know, the next chapter just needs editing and minor revisions... so yeah. Before I forget, who wants to see our wannabe sea monster protagonist kidnap the Royal Canterlot symphony? I can already guess the answer... all of you! Crouching prey, hidden predator. In other words...Chapter 4 ...don't put a sea monster in a corner. It was a staring match... my eyes drifting between each hostile bird. I was looking at the monsters, taking them in, each twitch, each breath, each feather, and not once even daring to close my eyes. I swear I noticed a hint of fear in their eyes, the same fear that must have been evident in mine, but before I could confirm my observation, I was distracted by a the sound of rushing air. The primal urge for self preservation took over, and my body moved by itself. I moved to the left by way of rolling, putting me against a brick wall. I lifted my head, hoping to make sense of what happened that caused me to go all instinctual. It seemed I had unknown allies. Multiple bricks, and bottles, flew through the air, each one getting closer to the now mobile law enforcement. One brick flew exceptionally fast, and It connected with one of the griffons, sending it into a not so sweet slumber instantly. More bricks followed, and I kept my head low. Once I felt like I was safe from flying bricks, I took in my surroundings. The hostile beasts flew off after two had been knocked into next week. I turned my head toward the brick thrower, or throwers... I'd have to thank them. I don't like fighting. Before I could open my mouth a bottle hit me square in the forehead. I fell backwards, my entire body felt numb, but I kept conscious... that was until a figure appeared above me, and dropped its heavy hoof on my head. I was back in the black. I was numb, I was tired, and I was alone. I hate this state of conscious stasis. At least I could think now. In the three weeks of boredom I was allowed, I took the time to study up on the world. There is no amount of words to describe how fucked up this place is, but I was capable of comprehending a few basic facts. There are very powerful beings, they run the countries and empires. There are multiple specie, none of which are even close to being human. Finally, eating meat is forbidden, even for omnivores... which sucks massive fucking donkey dick. I sat down, and brought my knees up to my chest, hugging them. I then proceeded to do the most logical thing I could think of... I rocked back and forth as I cried. I didn't want to go home, but I most certainly did not want to stay here, and if I had to spend one more hour in this hell called my mind, then I was going to find a way to off myself. This whole situation was not okay. Nothing was okay. I needed cool off. Really, how the fuck am I suppose to deal with this situation? Do I just go with the flow, hoping to find away out of this, or do I have to fight my way to salvation? I felt a sharp pain on my cheek. Slowly I came to. The world faded into focus as I opened my eyes. "Wake up princess." A brown pony said as he slapped me once more. I didn't respond, rather I tried to get a feel for the situation. Behind the fist pony was a second, who was sitting down on a stool, drinking some sort of lager. I was bound to a wall, and there was no other living creature in the room I could see. "You see my friend?" the fist pony asked, gesturing toward the second pony. I didn't respond. "He doesn't like you." I stayed as still as I could. "I don't like you either." I tried to stay quiet, but I couldn't help letting smirk grow on my face. "Why are you talking to that animal?" the ponies friend asked in a cockney accent. "I'm just having a bit of sport brother." The fist one responded. "It probably can't understand you." The second one said. "I don't care, at least I can try. It's tradition!" The first one retorted. "Tradition this, tradition that. It's always tradition with you!" The second one complained as he took another sip. "Aye, and I'll keep with the tradition as long as you keep with that Seidel!" The first exclaimed violently. "It's called a mug." The second one returned timidly. The first one turned back to me, apparently done with, if not satisfied by, his verbal exchange, and possible victory, with the second one. "All right sweet cheeks. I'm going to give you the honor of knowing why you are where you are, as it is tradition to do so." He looked back over his shoulder to the second one momentarily as he spoke his last few words. "You're here because we are predators, and you are prey. We make a living catching, or killing, and then selling unique monstrosities of nature. We've never seen something like you before, and we just couldn't let this chance slip by." The first one explained. I tested my restraints. The knots were terrible, and I could slip out easily enough if I had a mind to. My legs were free, and my hands were bound high above my head to the wall. "Do you understand?" It asked after my continued silence. I yawned, and continued my charade of ignorance. "Wow! This fella's got some teeth on him." The first one said, calling back to his companion. "Yeah, what of it. So did that chimera from the Everfree." The second said. "But that beast made it obvious. This thing is something different." The first said, turning toward the second. "I thought that was clear enough if you just looked at it." The second said. "Aye, true enough." The first said, focusing his attention back to me. I had put on an alluring smile whilst the two were talking... the kind of smile that a seductress might use to grab the attention of a target. "Hey now, what do you find so amusing?" The first asked as he approached closer... nearly touching his snout to my nose. I flicked my head to the side quickly... hoping he'd take it as a gesture to get closer. "What? Have you got something to say?" it asked. "Hey, Mettle, this thing wants me to get closer to it, like it can speak or something!" The first informed. "Well?" The second, Mettle, asked. "Well what should I do?" The first asked. "See what it wants, it's not like it can do anything. It may have some teeth on it, but the thing looks too stupid to use them. It's probably harmless!" The second said. "Alright... so... what do ya want?" The first asked me, obviously nervous. I flicked my head one more time, mouthing out the word 'closer' with as much subtlety I could muster. He did indeed come closer, but slowly, and put his ear next to my mouth, waiting for me to say something. I slipped my hands from my bindings, but kept my arms raised... and then I spoke. With a hushed voice, and malice weaved through it like silk, I made a very true statement. "I always wondered what a horse tasted like." The first stiffened up in fear, and I took my opening with vigor. Lowering my head, I bit down on the first ones neck. I grabbed him so he couldn't flee, and I bit down even harder. I pushed him away as he screamed. The first scrambled to the corner, pressing a hoof against his neck... he would be fine if he didn't confront me again. I then focused my attention on Mettle. He was awe struck. I walked toward him, and he did not react... his eyes never even moved. I crouched down, and looked into his bright green eyes. I ran my hand gently across his jaw line, and smiled warmly. Mettle started to scream hysterically, and ran off. In the process of his flight, he revealed to me the way out of the musty room that had apparently been my own personal prison. I walked toward my exit, but before I left, I looked back to the first one. He was trembling, and crying in the corner. "Hey." I called out just loud enough for the first to hear me. He looked toward me carefully, not daring to look me in the eyes. "You tasted wonderful." I informed before taking my leave. That was sadistic. I know it was sadistic. I didn't like it... did I? Yes... I did. That's okay, just don't do it again. I walked outside, taking in my surroundings once again. It was... dawn? Dusk maybe. I was on a ship, and it seemed to be in the middle of nowhere. The ship was large... one of the largest wooden sailing vessels I've ever seen! There were all sorts of races around, ponies, griffons, and others. It was something to behold. Unfortunately it seems everything else was beholding me. "That's it! That's the damned monster that took a bite out of my partner!" I heard Mettle scream from somewhere in the crowd. I looked over my audience. Fear was in the eyes of every single one of them. I shrugged, and walked to the edge of the ship. I looked down at the spot I stood at. A crate was beside me, and the railing on the ship looked sturdy. I sat down, and leaned against the railing, then I looked up at the sky. I saw a feather, and Gilda's face came to mind. I hope she's okay. I heard footsteps, or something similar, and looked at whoever it could have been. It was a very, very, large pony... but it stopped approaching as our eyes connected. I frowned, and it slowly walked backwards. After I was sure nothing was going to bother me, curled my knees up to my chest, and smiled inwardly to myself. I was having too much fun. This wasn't normal. It was high time I got some rest. The morning came quickly enough. Nothing tried to bother me, and I didn't bother anything else... never once leaving my resting place. My entire day was spent like that. Sitting. I didn't get hungry, and I didn't want to talk to anything. I felt sick. Everything I looked at just made me sick. Soon enough it was night again, and I found sleep. Another day passed, and a pony decided to sit next to me... a mare I believe. She was beige with red hair... and a rose was on her posterior. I didn't bother to say anything, considering she was well over a meter away, and she seemed to be in a constant state of slumber. I sat contemplating what I should do to get to my goal faster, but there was a problem. I had no goal. What did I want? That question has been my silent plague. I knew I was being extremely optimistic from the get-go, and now I know why. I have no drive to do anything, therefore I have no reason to do anything... and that is a very dangerous road. I have always handled danger with absurdity... 'tis the nature of the adrenalin junkie. I was scared, well and truly, and I wanted... needed direction. I know I needed to get to Equestria, and I know I needed to find Gilda, but those things could be done in time, I needed something more grandiose, and immediate... lest I fall pray to my own malevolent tendencies. It was night again... I had spent the entire day trying to understand myself. Perhaps I should have stopped thinking whilst I was still happy, and optimistic. Well, at least I understood one thing... find a goal. I fell asleep yet again, dreamless and peaceful... if only the world, and I, could stay so silent. Author's Note IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ! First off, I made edits to the earlier chapters... and I did change some major stuff. Gilda is no longer depressed... rather she just has some "Serious shit" wrong with her. Everything else is just minor linguistic fuckery that people seem to take seriously for some stupid reason or another... I probably just pissed half you guys off. Sorry. Secondly, I shall be writing one chapter, if not more, a month. It will be released sometime in that month. Thirdly, if the story seems fast paced... good, that means I'm doing my job right. This story shall be massive by the end of it, and the fast paced chapters will hopefully make it more convenient for all of us. Fourthish... is that right? Fourthishly, yes Kraken is getting moody, and the story is taking a dark turn... It's not just you. Relax though, for it will only last as long as it needs to... ya know, for plot shizznits. Finally, I really love you guys! I know I'm not a professional writer, and since I have no editor, or pre readers, or really any staff whatsoever... god I miss the days when I had partners... the quality of this story is not amazing, but you guys are still here, and I couldn't be happier! If you have any suggestion, or critique, involving this story in any way, go ahead and comment. I read every single one, and I usually respond. Until next time, read irresponsibly my friends! Some roses have no thorns.Chapter 5 Some roses have no thorns. I heard bells ring out... I could only hope that they were docking bells. I looked up, the sky was an icy blue, and the wind stung my cheeks. Over time I became slightly more aware of my surroundings... the first thing I truly noticed was the pain in my gut, no doubt caused by my hunger. I would need food soon, or risk an unpleasant death... that would be a humiliating way to go out, especially after all I've been through so far. The second thing I noticed was the peculiar mare that had been resting near me the majority of the time I was conscious on the vessel... her head was now on my lap, and a content smile found its way to her lips. It was an absolutely adorable sight. I ran my hand through her mane, it was soft, and thick. In return, she snuggled up closer to me, rubbing her head against my chest. It was a heart warming moment... there was no doubt that I needed one of those desperately. Amid the adorable, albeit unconscious, display of affection, I finally realized how much I truly needed food. I started thinking of deserts... It didn't help that the mare on me had the same color scheme as a cherry tart. I licked my lips as I kept thinking of the wonderful treat known as the cherry tart... but then I heard a rather girlish scream in the distance. "That beast is going to eat her!" I heard from somewhere in a growing crowd of animals. The mare woke up gently, and looked around with half lidded eyes... first at me, then at the crowd. "Alright ya beasty, let da lass go, an' na'body gets 'urt." An approaching zebra warned. The zebra was wearing quite the uniform, and it was decorated with medals of all sorts... he was probably the captain. "What's going on?" The red haired mare asked the captain. "Da beast was going ta 'ave ya for its first light meal." The zebra explained. The mare looked at the captain for a couple of seconds, and then shifted her view to me, a look of intrigue was on her face. "Were you going to eat me?" She asked, her voice was soft. "No." I answered quietly. "Yes it was. Da ting be lickin' its lips like it be given a ripe bowl of da flower ya know!" The zebra accused. "Why were you licking your lips?" The mare questioned, rather content to stay on my lap as she questioned me, even with all the risk it entailed. "You reminded me of a cherry tart." I answered. The mare brought one of her hoofs up to cover her mouth as she struggled, and failed, to suppress a girlish giggle. "I like you. What's your name?" She asked. I was about to answer, but I was rudely interrupted by the captain. "No more of dis nonsense, get em lads!" I got up slowly giving ample time for the rose haired mare to get off my lap safely. I sat down on the railing of the ship, and took in what was happening. About ten crew members were rushing toward me. They were all going full tilt, whether it be sprinting, or flying, but I still had plenty of time. I directed my attention toward the kind mare, so that I could answer her question. "I'm called many things, but most know me simply as The Kraken." I spoke nice and loud so everything could hear me. Unexpectedly, but all too amusingly, the crew members that had been approaching me slowed their pace... one even tripped. I looked toward the captain, his steely blue eyes had lost their edge, and I could have sworn I saw the color drain from his face. It appeared that legends from the sea still held their fabled effects on the sailors of this world... it was a curious thing to be sure. Slowly, I leaned backward, ready to dive into the depths of the sea. I herd rushing foot steps, and as I fell backward, I looked up."I'm Roseluck!" The red haired mare yelled to me with a smile I managed to get off a flirtatious wink before I hit the water. I was a good swimmer... secretly, and I suppose somewhat foolishly, I always thought having Kraken as a name helped me become one. I was one of the best swimmers on my high school team. I could hold my breath for five minutes without a problem, and my endurance swimming was on par with the best of them... unfortunately my sprints left a considerable amount to be desired. When I finally got my bearings underwater, I swam under the hull of the vessel so I could lose myself in the shadows the ship cast underwater. I didn't get that large of a breath whilst I was falling, so I probably had a maximum of three minutes of down time. I spent two of those relaxing, but as soon as the third minute started, I began my ascent. I slowly came out of the water, taking a deep breath as I surfaced. No one saw me yet... which was surprising, but nonetheless welcome. What wasn't dandy however, was the fact that the ship I was currently clinging to was stationary. It made sense, the vessel was too large to dock at a natural port... which meant the passengers would have to be ferried to shore. I'd have to focus if I wanted to stay hidden on my way to the island... or wherever it was the ship was docking. I waited until the ferries arrived to transport the passengers, then I took a deep breath, and submerged myself. I swam forward until I found myself under a ferry, and grabbed on to a dangling piece of rigging the ferry just so happened to have astern itself, letting myself get pulled along silently. I looked up, and did a double take. Looking back at me with half lidded eyes was Roseluck. "Nice seeing you again." She said quietly. "The feelings mutual." I returned, as I scanned the horizon for anything that might be looking for me. "Nopony's searching for you." Roseluck informed, as if reading my mind. I gave her a questioning look. "You scared every sailor on that ship half to death." She informed, "I wouldn't be surprised if you made a couple of them quit their jobs." She continued nonchalantly, leaning her head against her hoof. I didn't say anything, instead I just shrugged my shoulders. "So..." She said. "So what?" I asked. "Are you really the Kraken?" She asked. Again, I just shrugged my shoulders. "I thought so." She said, a smirk growing on her face. "What are you anyway?" I shrugged my shoulders yet again. "Quiet, aren't you?" She asked. "I guess. I'm sort of out of it... hunger does that to you." I answered the best I could. "How 'bout I get you some food when we reach land?" She offered. "That sounds good." I said, smiling at the prospect of a meal. I looked around... we'd be hitting land in less than a minute. I saw a patch of forest off to the left side of the port. I pointed over at the forest. "I'll be over there somewhere." I informed Roseluck. "Alright. I'll look around for you." She returned cheerfully. I had let go of the rigging on the rear of the ferry, and started to swim, but before I submerged myself Roseluck shot me a wink, the act bringing a smile to my face. The swimming was easy enough, it was when I reached shore that everything hit me like a ton of bricks. I had to crawl on hands, and knees up onto the rather small beach that found its place betwixt the ocean, and the forest. My clothing felt like lead, and my head ached something fierce. I puked my guts out on the sand, and just stayed there for a bit, trying to recover from my rather sub par disposition. I forced myself to rise to a somewhat standing position, slouching over slightly, and favoring my left leg. Once I was up on my feet, things started to get easier... I must have been literally starving for me to have that kind of reaction to a little exercise. I made my way into the woods. Once I broke through the initial tree line, I was greeted by a field of blue, exotic looking flowers. They filled the air with a sweet, and what only be described as warm, aroma. I dropped to my shaky knees, leaned over, and picked one of the flowers. I proceeded to take in the wonderful, if not a bit overpowering, scent. Once I got sick of the smell, and mustered up the considerable amount of will needed, I made my way toward the treeline on the opposite side of the surprisingly small, yet extremely thick, patch of forest. I didn't breach the treeline, opting to sit down a short way into the forest instead. I then proceeded to wait... if you could call it that. I was more fighting for consciousness. Eventually, Roseluck found her way into my line of sight. "Hey!" I yelled. Roseluck's eyes met mine, and I waved my hand, signaling for her to come to my position. She made her way over to me, and looked me over. "What happened to you?" She asked. "I wish I knew." I responded sincerely. She had a bag wrapped around her shoulder, and by biting down on a latch, she released it, having it drop to the ground. She opened it, and much to my delight, brought out multiple sandwiches. The sight was glorious. She offered me one, and I gladly accepted. I started eating without hesitation... Roseluck soon joined me. We'd finished about twenty minutes later, and Roseluck rested her head on my lap once more. I was about to voice my distaste for the action, when I heard a soft snore. I was lost in its sheer adorableness, and decided to just let her be. I looked up at the sky like every other day I found relatively enjoyable. It was night... when did it become night? Was I that dazed, or did I actually spend that much time resting at the base of the tree? Thoughts ran through my head a mile a minute, but it didn't matter. I was content now... so why should I care about anything else... right? Slowly sleep overtook my ability to stay aware. I had dreams that night... they were good dreams, I guess. It was all very cryptic, but a few things were certain, Gilda was to my right, Roseluck was to my lift, and in front of me was the world. I took Gilda's hand, and Roseluck offered her hoof. Together the three of us started to fall. Before we hit the ground, I woke up. The morning came sooner than I'd have liked, and my drowsiness was not an easy foe to fight off. I slipped back into my slumber multiple times, before I was completely awoken by Roseluck prodding my chest with her hoof. "What?" I asked. Roseluck just gestured toward my chest with her hoof with a wide grin plastered onto her face. I brought my hands up, and squeezed my new found assets. "I have tits...wait... WHAT?" Author's Note I can be lighthearted too! See, no dead things, and no depressing thoughts, just a potential love interest... and rule 63! Wow. I put a lot of effort into getting this to work right. I wanted to do something with Poison Joke, but everything I thought of wouldn't do. Poison Joke causes something embarrassing to happen to its victim... but here is the catch, it has to contrast with the victims personality. I couldn't think of anything that would still allow me to continue the story fluidly... until the internet happened. I was doing my own thing, just searching for some ideas, when BAM! I got my answers. Kraken is a real man... the kind of man that just exudes manliness. SO, rule 63. Now a new branch of the story starts, and the first layers are being added. Will Kraken regain his status as a male? What's with Roseluck? Will Gilda ever take on a role as more than just a side character? Find out when I finally decide to get my act together! Next time on The Equestrian Trace... this... this happens.
It's good to be awake again... I think? It's good to be awake again... I think? Chapter 1 It's good to be awake again... I think? This is the only time that you will ever see a Vocabulary section in this fic. Parkour- The physical discipline of movement, the definition is commonly shortened to 'Getting to point A from point B in the most efficient way possible'. Freerunning- The physical discipline of movement, but unlike Parkour, which stresses efficiency, it stresses creativity. Parkour, and Freerunning are so similar that moves are named the same, and participants of the discipline share the same title. Traceur- Originally just tracer, it is the title of the participants of Parkour, and Freerunning. "How long has it been? How long have I been in this darkness? How long has it been since I last moved? Someone! Answer ME!" I screamed. I believe this was the 472nd time I did that, but something was different this time. It felt like I actually spoke. Slowly, my blackened world was filled with a blinding light. I threw my arm in front of my face in an attempt to dim the light. After a while, my eyes adjusted to the change in brightness. I scanned the room. It was strange, not the room, but the fact that I could see again. It had been ages since I was able to see anything, in fact, I had started to forget what color was what. The room itself looked like any modern hospital room, save for one crucial difference... instead of doctors, and nurses surrounding me, there where griffons. "Hello... Can. You. Understand. Me." Asked a griffon to my right. Its voice was very feminine. "Uh... yeah, yeah. Can I ask you something?" I asked. "By all means." She responded. "Right... Are you really a griffon, or is it just me?" I asked. "I am indeed a griffon." She responded with a bit too much cheer present in her voice. "Oh! Right then." I said right before loosing conscientiousness again. After a countless number of hours, I woke up again. During my lucid slumber, I went over the scenario that had just happened. At first I was shocked, but then I slowly convinced myself that what I saw was real, and eventually got over the whole situation entirely. I needed some excitement. My life before all this was entirely too boring. All I had to keep me entertained really was Parkour, and the internet. After waiting around for a bit, I decided I wanted to wake up, and as soon as I felt that resolve, the blackened world that I had become accustom to was filled with light yet again, and just like last time, I was surrounded by griffons. "Hello." Said the same griffon from before, in a slightly worried tone. "Hi." I responded. "Are you feeling alright." She asked. "Uh... I think so." I answered. "You don't feel dizzy, or faint?" She asked, presumably because of my blackout from earlier. "Nope." I returned. "So... you are absolutely sure that you are feeling perfectly normal?" She asked once more. "Really, are we going to be playing that game?" I asked. "Wh... What do you mean? What game?" She responded with surprise evident in her voice. "The game where you keep asking the same question, and I keep giving you the same answer." I responded, being careful to not let my impatience become evident in my voice. "Oh! Sorry, its just that... well... you know." "No, I'm pretty sure I don't." I said calmly. "Well, you are one of a kind. Completely new. There has never been any sign of your species present on Equis. It's amazing really." She said, slowly becoming lost in her thought. I noticed, that the other griffons had long since left to do whatever griffons do. "So... do ya mind telling me what is going on?" I inquired in a nonchalant tone, as I reexamined my surroundings. "Well, one of the many freelance explorers, that the king hires to map previously unexplored areas of Equis, found an artifact in the massive badlands of southern Equestria, and with permission from the Equestrian counsel of foreign affairs, and the allowance of the Equestrian center of history and science, she was able to bring said artifact back here. During analysis of the artifact, a magical rune was triggered... or so we think, and you appeared in place of the artifact. Needless to say, the whole of Equis was surprised. Anyway, we decided to wait for you to wake from your coma, and with funding being provided by both Equestria, and the Gryphonian government, we where able to maintain your health, and physique, as well as study your anatomy." She informed. "You don't skip out on details, do you?" I said with a smile. Griffon or not, it was good to have a half-decent conversation with someone other than myself. "So... what now?" I asked. "That's right! I nearly forgot. There are a few questions I have to ask you, then I'll take you to the king." She said. "Okay... Shoot." I said. "What is your name?" She asked. "Kraconious Vonferdinaned-Delapsian Zephoshexeed the fifth... but people just call me Kraken for short." She stared at me blankly for a second, but broke her surprise by writing something down on a piece of parchment with an old fashioned quill. Interesting, they have tech in the hospital that is on par with the stuff back home, but they still use parchment, and quills. "Right... what was your former occupation, assuming you had one?" she asked. "I worked at a local eatery specializing in oriental food." I answered. "Okay... only a couple more questions. Did you have a mate?" She asked. "Uh... no." I answered. "What's your favorite color?" she asked. "Red, but I also have a preference toward blue." I responded. "My address is 5600 cloudpark, come visit sometime." She said, leaving with a giggle. What just happened? "Hey, lover boy." I heard a slightly scratchy yet distinctively female voice say to my left. "Get up." I looked to my left, and saw another griffon looking at me. "Okay." I said, sitting up. "Mind telling me what just happened?" I asked. "My sis is a flirt, and you are a chump." She said. "Fair enough. Mind telling me what your name is?" I asked. "Gilda, don't wear it out." She said, walking away, but instead of following her sister she paused at the doorway. "Are you coming or not?" She asked. "I would follow, but I kinda need a pair of pants." I said. "For what?" She asked. "Just get me a pair of pants." I ordered in a non-aggressive tone. She stood her ground for a bit, but when it was clear I wasn't gonna move, she gave in. "Fine, just hold on a sec." After a few minutes of waiting, she came back with my black cargo trousers, a white T-shirt, and my sneakers. "Here." She said throwing them on the bed. "Now lets go." she said, turning to leave. "Yep one sec." I responded. "Well, whenever your ready, just leave the building. I'm gonna go wait outside." She said, clearly frustrated. Once she had left, and I was sure the coast was clear, I pulled on my trousers, laced up my shoes, slipped on my shirt, and left the room. It wasn't too difficult finding the way out. I opened the door, and took in the scope of the place. As far as the eye could see, floating islands, like in the movie Avatar, with cities carved into there faces, dotted the sky. Connecting each island was a series of smaller islands, and rocks. Two things were going through my mind. Epic, and playground. I was going to sketch this place up even if it killed me. "Ready?" Gilda asked, breaking me out of my daze. "Yeah." I said turning toward her. "Where do we go?" I asked. "Up there." She said pointing with her beak in the direction of a grand palace carved into an island, and quite large one at that, off in the distance. It was a substantial distance away, about a mile, but even at that distance, the size of the palace made it seem so much closer. "Alright... we're gonna have to take the long way." She said with a sigh. "The long way?" I said confusedly. "Yeah. Normally I'd just fly there, but we're gonna have to follow that winding road about half way around the city in order to get to the castle." She informed. "Or, you could fly right there, and I'll run." I offered. "That's a fine Idea and all, but I have to keep an eye on you." She said. "Who said you weren't?" I asked. "In order to keep an eye on you, I have to see you. If you run halfway 'round the city while I wait at the castle, I'm sure I'd lose sight of you." she said. "Then don't lose sight of me." I said. "What's that me..." But her voice was drowned out by the sound of my feet hitting the ground. It's been awhile since I last ran. "Come back here you bastard!" I heard Gilda scream behind me. I ignored it, and found my route. I sprinted toward a building, taking a deep breath. Once I was about a meter away from the wall of the building, I jumped, and planted my right foot on its wall. I then proceeded to run up the wall, grabbing the edge of the roof, and throwing myself on top of it. I kept up my sprint, and jumped the distance between the building I was on, and the one I had just been on. One more jump, and I was on the large island where the palace was located. When I hit the ground, I dropped into a roll, minimizing the amount of damage that I would have normally taken from such a jump. I popped out of my roll, and kept sprinting. I ran up another wall, then another. I decided to show off, and did a side-flip over a park bench, length wise. I came up to a railing, and jumped on top of it, springing myself upward onto the next levee. I slid under a railing, and vaulted the next one in my path. I dived over a fountain, soaking my shirt, and rolled out of it. One more levee up, and I would be on the same plane as the palace. To my right was a wall, in front of me was a thousand foot drop into the ocean. There was only one thing to do. I placed one foot on the wall, and continued my run horizontally until I reached the end of the wall, where I proceeded to launch myself forward... its times like these that I like to think to myself 'SCREW YOU NEWTON!' A minute more of a flat out sprint, and I arrived at my destination. That run was one of the best ones I've had in my entire life, but it missed something. As I stood there, I looked around, and saw a very mad Gilda flying at top speed right at me. "You BASTARD!" I heard Gilda scream as she rammed into me, sending me flying to the ground, and when I hit said ground... I blacked out. One thought kept passing through my mind as I lay unconscious... I really hope that blacking out doesn't become a regular deal for me. Author's Note Sup! First of all, I'd like to say that you shouldn't expect a lot of authors notes, secondly, I'm sorry for the short chapter length. Now that that's settled, if you got any questions, don't be afraid to ask. I hope you enjoyed the chapter, and expect more.
Acquiring Swag (The British kind).Chapter 2 Acquiring Swag (The British kind). "I'm sorry." I heard Gilda whisper as I came to. "I didn't mean too." She whispered again. I opened my eyes, and took in the sight of Gilda looking out the window. She had tears welling up in her eyes, and it was obvious she didn't know I was awake. "Cheer up." I said with a hoarse voice as I sat up. Gilda froze, and a look of shock was plastered onto her face. "You alright?" I asked. Gilda's look of shock was soon replaced with anger. "You son of a bitch! How long have you been awake?" She asked, rushing over to me, and pressing her forehead against mine in a predatory manner. "Long enough to know that you could use a friend." I answered. Gilda stumbled for words, and backed off a bit. She took a deep breath, and looked out the window. There was an awkward tension in the air, but that was broken when Gilda let out a sigh, and laid her head down on my lap, still looking out the window. "So... what's wrong?" I asked. "I broke three of your ribs." She said nonchalantly. "Is that all? Well, that's nothing to cry about." I said, trying my best to cheer her up. "That's not what I was crying about." Gilda responded without a hint of emotion in her voice. "What were you crying about?" I asked. Gilda sighed, and pointed out the window. When I looked at what Gilda pointed out, I was awe struck. It was quite possibly the most beautiful rainbow I'd ever seen in my life. "A rainbow." I said. "Yeah..." Gilda said. "Just a rainbow." Things had gotten weird enough, so I didn't push the subject. We just sat there in silence. You know... I really hate silence. Its devastating... silence that is. The calm before the storm. The silence that ensues when you are too close to an explosion. I really hate silence, because I know that silence never brings anything good. Its like a blade is placed at your throat, and you can do nothing but wait for the end to come... and that's not even the worst part! Time starts to become distorted in the quiet. Things slowdown, and details become evident. You become aware of every little thing! Its terrible. "Are you alright?" Gilda asked, emancipating me from my trance. "Yeah... why wouldn't I be?" I asked in return. "Well... you just looked really... how do I describe this?" She took a second to think it over. "You looked fucking pissed." She said. That's not what I expected. "Really? Hmmm. Well whatever." I brushed my surprise off, then, as if the flood gates of logic broke, and the water of knowledge poured right into my miniscule cranium, a question formed. "How did you keep me in such good condition, and how can I sit up if my ribs are suppose to be broken?" I asked. "Magic, what else?" She informed as if it was common knowledge... which it may very well be now that I think of it. "Magic eh... I suppose anything can happen." I said to myself. "So, magic... like riding a broom, and waving a wand, magic?" I asked. "What? No, more like the kind that involves a unicorn, and a shit-ton of money." She informed. Unicorns... motherfucking unicorns... "You know, now that we're on the subject, I should tell you what the plan is. Right, I was going to take you to the king, and he would have figured out a way for you to pay back your debt... but things have changed. In a weeks time, there is going to be a trial to determine whether or not you are stable enough to be allowed into modern society. Also, thanks to your injuries, the king's in debt, and fucking political shit is going on." She informed. Fucking political shit... sounds like home. "Why am I having the trial?" I asked. "You ran off, and caused quite a commotion the other day. Hell, you flew without wings, and nearly gave a few passersby a heart attack!" She scolded. "I flew?" I asked. "What? Are you saying you didn't?" she asked. Ha, I must be getting good if people... griffons, think I'm flying when I run. "Of course not, all I was doing was running." I informed. "Then how the hell did you get on top of that building when I was chasing you!?" She asked. The application of pressure against a flat surface at a 45 degree angle, changing my forward momentum into upward momentum. "I ran up the wall." I answered. "Bullshit. I say it was magic." She said with determination. "And, I say it was science. Regardless, I'm gonna need a few things if I plan on sticking around here, and for the trial." I answered, getting out of bed. Luckily for me, they left my pants, and shoes on, but I lacked my shirt. "Alright, but thanks to your outburst yesterday, I'm being forced to stay by your side until the trial... so no fucking shenanigans, alright?" she asked. "Not a problem." I answered "So... where's my shirt?" I asked. "My sis jacked it. You probably won't get it back." She informed. "Alright then, we need to find a tailor... and cash now that I think of it." I said, mapping out my priorities. "Princess Mi Amore Cadenza has donated a couple hundred standard-C to you." Gilda informed. "Standard-C? And moreover, who's Princess Mi Amore Cadenza?" I asked, lost in terminology. "Standard currency... aka the shit that gets you shit. And, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza is one of the three princesses of Equestria, and apparently, a supporter of intellectual endeavors." She informed. "You know what? You sound really different when you talk about this Equestria place." I informed. "What of it? It's none of your business so lay off." She said in a sudden blast of anger. "Your one touchy she-la, Ain't ya?" I asked in a cheeky Australian accent... just to piss her off more. "Don't push your luck you prick." She threatened. "Oooo, kitty got claws. Meow." I said, making a scratching gesture. Gilda then proceeded to slash my right arm with her claws... which are much bigger then any kitties. "You know, I think I want out of this relationship... it's getting a bit abusive." I said in a monotone voice, as I watched blood pour from the gashes. "What the fuck! I attack you, and blood is pouring from your arm, yet you still make a joke. Maybe you are unstable." She informed. "Which is why I need some gear, and an escape route." I informed. "What?" She said with shock evident in her voice. "What? That's a joke." I hope. "You gotta take things less seriously or you'll get an aneurism. Can griffons even get an aneurism?" I asked. "Punk." She said, looking back out the window. "Yeah, and don't forget it. Anyway, can I get something to clean this up, or do I have to lick it up?" I asked. "Why the hell would you lick it up?" She asked "That's nasty." "It's better then having it drip everywhere." I informed. After a couple minutes of first aid, and a few more traded insults, I was ready to get out of that place. "So, where's the nearest tailor?" I asked. "Just down that way a bit." She said. "He's a friend of mine, makes most of my gear when I head out." She informed. "Head out? I thought you worked at the hospital with your sister." I said. "Do you really think I could work at a hospital? I'll answer that for you, hell no. I'm an adventurer... actually, I'm THE adventurer now that DD is retired." She informed. "Who's DD?" I asked. "An old hag that writes novels loosely based on her old adventures... I say loosely based because she has to tone down her books so they can be more appealing to a larger crowd." "You act as if you know her." "She's an acquaintance. I was gonna surprise a friend awhile back by introducing her to her, but... lets just go." She said, getting drastically more timid. "You alright?" I asked. "Yeah, yeah... just go." She said. From there, we made the rather short journey in silence. When we arrived at the tailor, I was rather surprised with how well off he seemed. It appears as though clothing is more popular then what I thought. " 'ello. Whaddya buying." A large griffon asked gruffly. "Clothes." I answered. "No shit, ya hairless chimp, I mean what kinda clothes. So... spit it out." He demanded. "What kind of clothes are there." I responded in a deep, calm, voice. I was pissed off at this guy's attitude, and he was going to reap what he sewed... whether he want's to or not. "Uh..." He stumbled at my sudden change of manner. I gave a cheeky smirk. "I asked what kind of clothes are there?" I asked once again. "We have... um..." He stumbled again. "Listen prick." I said in calm, and pleasant voice. "I don't know if your fucked in the head, but you're going to shapeup a bit, or I'm leaving this shithole, and taking my business elsewhere." I said, keeping as much pleasantness in my voice as I could. "Go... just go... please don't hurt me." He cowered. Okay, maybe I over did it. All of a sudden, another griffon burst out of a changing room, and started squirting the big oaf with a water bottle. "Get, get!" He yelled as the bigger griffon ran off. "And don't come back tell you've changed your attitude you little rascal!" He yelled in an overly flamboyant tone. "Now, what can I do for you sugar-plumb?" He asked, addressing me. "Oh... uh..." I stumbled for words at the site that took place before my eyes. "Listen prick." He said in a clam, and overly flamboyant voice "I don't know if your fucked in the head, but your going to..." He started to chuckle, and struggled holding back his laughter. Once I realized his joke, I had a hard time holding back a chuckle myself. "Alrighty. The name is Gregory." He said, extending a claw. "Hi, You can call me Kraken." I greeted, returning his gesture with a hand shake. "So, what can I do you for stranger." He said in a flirty manner. "I just need a new shirt, and possibly a pair of shoes." I informed. "But, due to my uniqueness, I can't just up, and buy something from a market somewhere." "Well, your certainly unique." He said, eyeing me. I'm beginning to feel a bit uncomfortable without my shirt on. "Tell you what big boy, since your a friend of prissy, I'll make you a new pair of shoes on the house, but the shirt will cost you." He informed. "Prissy?" I asked. "That's me, and if you ever mention that name again, I'll kill you." Said Gilda. "Right, so lets get to it." Said Gregory in a far too excited manner. Gregory led me into another room, and pulled out measuring tape. "This is going to be fun." He said, letting out a borderline evil laugh. It felt like I was thrown into a tornado, and ten seconds later I had on a white dress shirt, and a pair of fine dress shoes. "So, what do you think?" Gregory asked. The clothing was of above average quality, and it felt very comfortable, but the shoes wouldn't do when I have to run. "I love the clothes, but I'm a bit of an athlete... I guess I'd prefer something more maneuverable... and warmer." I said. "Alright, I can do that." Gregory said, pulling on a pair of hipster glasses he got out of nowhere, and biting down on a pencil... then, it was back into the whirlwind. As fast as that wind came, it left, and I was left adorned with some interesting clothing. I say interesting, because it's not exactly what you'd think of for an athlete to wear in cold whether, but It was certainly comfortable... and it would definitely do the job. It was basically a white long sleeved T-shirt, with a black, hooded robe draped over it, kept on with a belt around the waist... it reminded me a lot of the robes Jedi wear. The shoes where... they where something. They looked like your typical hiking boots, but they felt much lighter. Beyond that, they seemed to have been color coordinated with my new clothes, taking on a black and white color scheme. "This is... awesome." I said. "Good, It'll cost you a hundred Talons." He informed. I looked at him, then I looked at Gilda with confusion plastered on my face. Why the hell would anybody need a hundred talons? "A hundred Talons is equal to Fifty standard-C." Gilda informed... much to my relief. I paid the fee, and headed out. "So... what now?" Gilda asked. I flicked my hood up, and took a deep breath. The air was thin, and cold. I liked it... the dry taste of it reminded me of iron. "Do you want to do anything?" I asked, not foreseeing anything I would need right away. "I uh... no, not really." She answered. "Alright then, how 'bout we pay a visit to your sister?" I asked. "That's cool, I should visit her anyway." She returned. "Alright...ONWARD HO, PRISSY!" I yelled. I think I'm going to like it here. Author's Note Sorry their isn't any Parkour in this chapter, but plot development comes first, and even though you might not see it now, I hinted at quite a few big bombshells just waiting to go off. Anyway, I know I said there wouldn't be a lot of authors notes, but I probably told a mistruth. There will be tons of authors notes, like, you won't believe how many there will be. Just wait, you'll see.
Time to fly.Chapter 3 Time to fly. It has been uneventful... this world, and the one I left behind. The sky has grayed, and the creatures that inhabit it are no longer a wonder inducing phenomenon. Three days... that's all it took. I've seen a unicorn, as well as a manticore, and I couldn't care less. The trial keeps becoming more and more like a sentencing, and it looks like I won't be freeman for much longer if this keeps up. Gilda is okay, if not a bit aggressive, and her sister is completely average... she's not even that flirty anymore. Action... that's what I need. I've been stuck on the same rock for too long. I haven't been able to run, or do anything worth while. My senses are more tuned, I started thinking more critically as of late, and I have a multitude of questions that I would love to ask. I've tried a couple of times, but Gilda, and her sister, who is actually named Isis, refuse to answer me. It has taken quite a toll on my mood. "What's up?" Gilda asked as she approached me. I'm not sure. I'm sitting here, looking out the window, with the smell of mint emanating from my tea, stinging my nose. "Dunno." I responded, simply because I had nothing else to say. "Okay... how ya doing?" She asked. "I don't know." I informed, my mint tea's aroma once again stung my nose as I inhaled. It was quiet for awhile. Not an awkward quiet, but a comforting silence. It enveloped me, and let me relax. "How much combat experience do you have?" Gilda asked. I was a bit stunned by the randomness of the question. I thought for a second, but after a time, and with a flick of my wrist, I waved off the question. "This is serious!" Gilda said, forcing my head to the side so that I would face her. It was serious. Her eyes were cold, and her expression... unnerving. "Well, have you ever been in a fight?" Gilda asked. I smirked. Delivering Asian food is a dangerous job after all. "Why are you smi..." Gilda started, but I put a finger on her beak, and nodded. "Fuck you." she said in a hushed voice after some time. Apparently she doesn't like being touched. "Sure, but you'll have to take me to dinner first." I responded, she did walk right into that one after all, which got me slapped across the face. "...So, whats with the question." "I've been home for way to long, and I want to get off this rock. DD, you remember me telling you about her right? Well, she's in town, and she secured us a ship... we just have to go through a few security check points to get to her." I would be lying if that didn't sound like a good time, but I was apprehensive at the fact that Gilda expects conflict, usually I'd just keep running in this scenario, but with a companion, that might not be an option. "Okay. Have you got a plan?" I asked. "Yeah, little miss pervert went ahead and is with DD now. I just have to get there with you intact." She said. I wasn't sure if I should be insulted at that statement... I mean, does she think she has to protect me. It was a bit of blow to my self-esteem. "Alright. let's go." I said. "We should leave at night." "I'd rather go now." I responded, getting up from my relaxed position... I really needed to leave this rock as soon as possible, my nerves were killing me. I shot the tea down like a cheap glass of vodka, and started for the door, placing the cup I was using on a nearby coffee table. "Hold on. What do you think you're doing?" Gilda asked, taking her place at my side, using her wings to balance on her lioness legs as she walked with me. Whenever she stands on two legs it surprises me... she always seems so small when she stands normally on all fours, but when she gets up she is nearly at eye level with me. I'd be lying if I said she didn't look a bit imposing, if not straight up scary, when she took that position. "I thought we were heading toward a ship... by the way, when you say ship, do you mean airship, or the boring kind?" "I never agreed to leave now... also, its the boring kind." She said. "Well I can't see at night, therefore I can't run." I informed in the hopes of encouraging her to leave now. "But we can sneak around better at night!" Gilda protested, stumbling in her fluster, leaving me to catch her. I swear I saw a blush on her feathered cheeks while she was in my arms, but she pushed me back a bit, and retook her bipedal stance from before. "Alright... lets make a compromise, 'kay?" I asked, a devious plan forming in my ever so cruel mind. "Okay. What is it?" I took my hooded cloak off, and threw it on a chair... I appreciated the warmth, but I couldn't run for shit with it on. I then turned around, my back facing Gilda. "Wrap your arms around my neck." I ordered. "Wh... Why?" "Just do it Prissy." I ordered in a deceptively calm voice, negating the harshness of my words. She complied. It was nice... being held that is. It was almost as if she was embracing me. I would have took more time to enjoy the novel nature of the action, but time is a precious commodity, and I was running out it. I jerked forward, throwing Gilda up on to my back. I then took a firm hold of her legs. She was light... I suppose that is to be expected considering she was half bird... hollow bones and all that... but it still surprised me. I then bolted out the door, kicking it off its hinges. "WHAT THE FUCK!" Gilda yelled. "Relax." I said. I chuckled a bit as I bolted across a giant wooden bridge connecting the floating rocks... I mean, seriously, I was giving a piggy back ride to a Griffon. "You expect ME to relax right now?!" Gilda yelled, letting a subtle whimper of fright escape her. I looked over my shoulder so I could look at Gilda, at the same time I slowed my pace so that I could still avoid bystanders using my peripheral vision. Her eyes were closed tight, and her talons were digging into my chest. "It's okay, trust me." I tried to encourage her, picking my pace back up. "How can I, you lied to me." "Just tell me where to go." I said, my voice sounding calm as I spoke... even though I wasn't. "The docks." That was informative. "Listen..." I was going to try to calm her down a bit more, though I'm not even sure why she's so scared. "...you have wings right?" I asked. "Yeah." "So you can fly away anytime you want." I informed. "There is no need to be scared." "I'm not scared!" she said. "Then whats with the whimpering?" I asked. "..." "Come on now, its okay... I'm your friend, right?" "But, you lied to me." she said quietly. I couldn't respond to that. I did lie in a way, but it was for her own good... right? "I'll get us to the ship, and you guide me, that's a compromise." I said. I heard another whimper. Gilda pressed her head into my back, and I felt a warm dampness form on my shirt. Note to self, Gilda has some serious issues. I ran as fast as I could. Guards followed for a good twenty minuets, but they couldn't keep up with me. I found a clever hiding spot in an ally with some cracks in the ground. I set Gilda down, and looked her over. She had cried herself to sleep. Something was off about her today, besides the sudden out burst... she seemed so much more... depressed. I need to focus. I had no idea where to begin looking for the docks. I hadn't seen any before, so I was at a loss. after a minute or two though, I thought I heard the sound of flapping canvas, and the creaking of wood. I listened more carefully, and found that the sound was coming from below the island. I looked at a crack in the ground, and saw light. I peered through the opening, and was awe struck. Ships of all sizes were all gathered around a land mass right below me. That had to be the docks. I moved over to Gilda, and shook her gently. "Wake up." I whispered. She stirred, but her eyes were shut. "Come on, I found the docks." I said, a bit louder. Her eyes opened slowly, and she seemed a bit surprised, but then her features calmed, and she looked like she had something to say. "Are you alright?" I asked. "Yeah... I... I want to apologize." She said, her head hung low as she looked at the ground. "Why? You didn't do anything." "But I did! I freaked out on you!" "Its alright... as long as you are okay." "I'm not okay though. I forgot to take my... my meds." Gilda informed. That was not what I was expecting. "What are the meds for? You are going to alright... right?" "Yeah, yeah. I'll be fine. The meds are for... well... you see...." "Its alright." I encouraged. "I... I have some uh... some minor, actually, make that sever uh... I have some serious shit going on." She said. I started to feel extremely guilty. I treated her horribly... I was trying to be funny but.... "Come on, you saw the docks right? Lets go." She said, rising, and walking to the edge of the ally. "Yeah." "Do you know how you are gonna get down?" She asked. I didn't have time to answer before we were surrounded by Griffons, each with a jacket embroidered with the word GRYPHON... they were cops. "You know what Gilda." I said. "What?" "How about you leave, and meet up with me in... um... Equestria is it? Yeah, Equestria." I more told her than suggested. "I can't leave you behind." Gilda informed in an almost pleading manner. "Just go prissy." I said, once again using a calmer voice to negate the insulting nature of the offending nickname. She paused to look at me, wanting to say something, but I nodded to her, a smirk growing on my lips. She looked at me a bit longer, but then flew away... none of the Gryphons gave chase to her. I crouched down, placing one hand on the ground, preparing for any attack that may come. Then I smiled a truly menacing smile, and asked a very important question. "Who wants to play first?" Author's Note I am SO sorry for the time frame between chapter releases. Seriously, its absurd. Furthermore, you get this chapter after a couple of months... THIS chapter... a SHORT as fuck TRANSITION chapter. I feel so bad. If its any consolation, I got my life together, and learned a valuable lesson... don't ever date EVER. Also, you know, the next chapter just needs editing and minor revisions... so yeah. Before I forget, who wants to see our wannabe sea monster protagonist kidnap the Royal Canterlot symphony? I can already guess the answer... all of you!
Crouching prey, hidden predator. In other words...Chapter 4 ...don't put a sea monster in a corner. It was a staring match... my eyes drifting between each hostile bird. I was looking at the monsters, taking them in, each twitch, each breath, each feather, and not once even daring to close my eyes. I swear I noticed a hint of fear in their eyes, the same fear that must have been evident in mine, but before I could confirm my observation, I was distracted by a the sound of rushing air. The primal urge for self preservation took over, and my body moved by itself. I moved to the left by way of rolling, putting me against a brick wall. I lifted my head, hoping to make sense of what happened that caused me to go all instinctual. It seemed I had unknown allies. Multiple bricks, and bottles, flew through the air, each one getting closer to the now mobile law enforcement. One brick flew exceptionally fast, and It connected with one of the griffons, sending it into a not so sweet slumber instantly. More bricks followed, and I kept my head low. Once I felt like I was safe from flying bricks, I took in my surroundings. The hostile beasts flew off after two had been knocked into next week. I turned my head toward the brick thrower, or throwers... I'd have to thank them. I don't like fighting. Before I could open my mouth a bottle hit me square in the forehead. I fell backwards, my entire body felt numb, but I kept conscious... that was until a figure appeared above me, and dropped its heavy hoof on my head. I was back in the black. I was numb, I was tired, and I was alone. I hate this state of conscious stasis. At least I could think now. In the three weeks of boredom I was allowed, I took the time to study up on the world. There is no amount of words to describe how fucked up this place is, but I was capable of comprehending a few basic facts. There are very powerful beings, they run the countries and empires. There are multiple specie, none of which are even close to being human. Finally, eating meat is forbidden, even for omnivores... which sucks massive fucking donkey dick. I sat down, and brought my knees up to my chest, hugging them. I then proceeded to do the most logical thing I could think of... I rocked back and forth as I cried. I didn't want to go home, but I most certainly did not want to stay here, and if I had to spend one more hour in this hell called my mind, then I was going to find a way to off myself. This whole situation was not okay. Nothing was okay. I needed cool off. Really, how the fuck am I suppose to deal with this situation? Do I just go with the flow, hoping to find away out of this, or do I have to fight my way to salvation? I felt a sharp pain on my cheek. Slowly I came to. The world faded into focus as I opened my eyes. "Wake up princess." A brown pony said as he slapped me once more. I didn't respond, rather I tried to get a feel for the situation. Behind the fist pony was a second, who was sitting down on a stool, drinking some sort of lager. I was bound to a wall, and there was no other living creature in the room I could see. "You see my friend?" the fist pony asked, gesturing toward the second pony. I didn't respond. "He doesn't like you." I stayed as still as I could. "I don't like you either." I tried to stay quiet, but I couldn't help letting smirk grow on my face. "Why are you talking to that animal?" the ponies friend asked in a cockney accent. "I'm just having a bit of sport brother." The fist one responded. "It probably can't understand you." The second one said. "I don't care, at least I can try. It's tradition!" The first one retorted. "Tradition this, tradition that. It's always tradition with you!" The second one complained as he took another sip. "Aye, and I'll keep with the tradition as long as you keep with that Seidel!" The first exclaimed violently. "It's called a mug." The second one returned timidly. The first one turned back to me, apparently done with, if not satisfied by, his verbal exchange, and possible victory, with the second one. "All right sweet cheeks. I'm going to give you the honor of knowing why you are where you are, as it is tradition to do so." He looked back over his shoulder to the second one momentarily as he spoke his last few words. "You're here because we are predators, and you are prey. We make a living catching, or killing, and then selling unique monstrosities of nature. We've never seen something like you before, and we just couldn't let this chance slip by." The first one explained. I tested my restraints. The knots were terrible, and I could slip out easily enough if I had a mind to. My legs were free, and my hands were bound high above my head to the wall. "Do you understand?" It asked after my continued silence. I yawned, and continued my charade of ignorance. "Wow! This fella's got some teeth on him." The first one said, calling back to his companion. "Yeah, what of it. So did that chimera from the Everfree." The second said. "But that beast made it obvious. This thing is something different." The first said, turning toward the second. "I thought that was clear enough if you just looked at it." The second said. "Aye, true enough." The first said, focusing his attention back to me. I had put on an alluring smile whilst the two were talking... the kind of smile that a seductress might use to grab the attention of a target. "Hey now, what do you find so amusing?" The first asked as he approached closer... nearly touching his snout to my nose. I flicked my head to the side quickly... hoping he'd take it as a gesture to get closer. "What? Have you got something to say?" it asked. "Hey, Mettle, this thing wants me to get closer to it, like it can speak or something!" The first informed. "Well?" The second, Mettle, asked. "Well what should I do?" The first asked. "See what it wants, it's not like it can do anything. It may have some teeth on it, but the thing looks too stupid to use them. It's probably harmless!" The second said. "Alright... so... what do ya want?" The first asked me, obviously nervous. I flicked my head one more time, mouthing out the word 'closer' with as much subtlety I could muster. He did indeed come closer, but slowly, and put his ear next to my mouth, waiting for me to say something. I slipped my hands from my bindings, but kept my arms raised... and then I spoke. With a hushed voice, and malice weaved through it like silk, I made a very true statement. "I always wondered what a horse tasted like." The first stiffened up in fear, and I took my opening with vigor. Lowering my head, I bit down on the first ones neck. I grabbed him so he couldn't flee, and I bit down even harder. I pushed him away as he screamed. The first scrambled to the corner, pressing a hoof against his neck... he would be fine if he didn't confront me again. I then focused my attention on Mettle. He was awe struck. I walked toward him, and he did not react... his eyes never even moved. I crouched down, and looked into his bright green eyes. I ran my hand gently across his jaw line, and smiled warmly. Mettle started to scream hysterically, and ran off. In the process of his flight, he revealed to me the way out of the musty room that had apparently been my own personal prison. I walked toward my exit, but before I left, I looked back to the first one. He was trembling, and crying in the corner. "Hey." I called out just loud enough for the first to hear me. He looked toward me carefully, not daring to look me in the eyes. "You tasted wonderful." I informed before taking my leave. That was sadistic. I know it was sadistic. I didn't like it... did I? Yes... I did. That's okay, just don't do it again. I walked outside, taking in my surroundings once again. It was... dawn? Dusk maybe. I was on a ship, and it seemed to be in the middle of nowhere. The ship was large... one of the largest wooden sailing vessels I've ever seen! There were all sorts of races around, ponies, griffons, and others. It was something to behold. Unfortunately it seems everything else was beholding me. "That's it! That's the damned monster that took a bite out of my partner!" I heard Mettle scream from somewhere in the crowd. I looked over my audience. Fear was in the eyes of every single one of them. I shrugged, and walked to the edge of the ship. I looked down at the spot I stood at. A crate was beside me, and the railing on the ship looked sturdy. I sat down, and leaned against the railing, then I looked up at the sky. I saw a feather, and Gilda's face came to mind. I hope she's okay. I heard footsteps, or something similar, and looked at whoever it could have been. It was a very, very, large pony... but it stopped approaching as our eyes connected. I frowned, and it slowly walked backwards. After I was sure nothing was going to bother me, curled my knees up to my chest, and smiled inwardly to myself. I was having too much fun. This wasn't normal. It was high time I got some rest. The morning came quickly enough. Nothing tried to bother me, and I didn't bother anything else... never once leaving my resting place. My entire day was spent like that. Sitting. I didn't get hungry, and I didn't want to talk to anything. I felt sick. Everything I looked at just made me sick. Soon enough it was night again, and I found sleep. Another day passed, and a pony decided to sit next to me... a mare I believe. She was beige with red hair... and a rose was on her posterior. I didn't bother to say anything, considering she was well over a meter away, and she seemed to be in a constant state of slumber. I sat contemplating what I should do to get to my goal faster, but there was a problem. I had no goal. What did I want? That question has been my silent plague. I knew I was being extremely optimistic from the get-go, and now I know why. I have no drive to do anything, therefore I have no reason to do anything... and that is a very dangerous road. I have always handled danger with absurdity... 'tis the nature of the adrenalin junkie. I was scared, well and truly, and I wanted... needed direction. I know I needed to get to Equestria, and I know I needed to find Gilda, but those things could be done in time, I needed something more grandiose, and immediate... lest I fall pray to my own malevolent tendencies. It was night again... I had spent the entire day trying to understand myself. Perhaps I should have stopped thinking whilst I was still happy, and optimistic. Well, at least I understood one thing... find a goal. I fell asleep yet again, dreamless and peaceful... if only the world, and I, could stay so silent. Author's Note IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ! First off, I made edits to the earlier chapters... and I did change some major stuff. Gilda is no longer depressed... rather she just has some "Serious shit" wrong with her. Everything else is just minor linguistic fuckery that people seem to take seriously for some stupid reason or another... I probably just pissed half you guys off. Sorry. Secondly, I shall be writing one chapter, if not more, a month. It will be released sometime in that month. Thirdly, if the story seems fast paced... good, that means I'm doing my job right. This story shall be massive by the end of it, and the fast paced chapters will hopefully make it more convenient for all of us. Fourthish... is that right? Fourthishly, yes Kraken is getting moody, and the story is taking a dark turn... It's not just you. Relax though, for it will only last as long as it needs to... ya know, for plot shizznits. Finally, I really love you guys! I know I'm not a professional writer, and since I have no editor, or pre readers, or really any staff whatsoever... god I miss the days when I had partners... the quality of this story is not amazing, but you guys are still here, and I couldn't be happier! If you have any suggestion, or critique, involving this story in any way, go ahead and comment. I read every single one, and I usually respond. Until next time, read irresponsibly my friends!
Some roses have no thorns.Chapter 5 Some roses have no thorns. I heard bells ring out... I could only hope that they were docking bells. I looked up, the sky was an icy blue, and the wind stung my cheeks. Over time I became slightly more aware of my surroundings... the first thing I truly noticed was the pain in my gut, no doubt caused by my hunger. I would need food soon, or risk an unpleasant death... that would be a humiliating way to go out, especially after all I've been through so far. The second thing I noticed was the peculiar mare that had been resting near me the majority of the time I was conscious on the vessel... her head was now on my lap, and a content smile found its way to her lips. It was an absolutely adorable sight. I ran my hand through her mane, it was soft, and thick. In return, she snuggled up closer to me, rubbing her head against my chest. It was a heart warming moment... there was no doubt that I needed one of those desperately. Amid the adorable, albeit unconscious, display of affection, I finally realized how much I truly needed food. I started thinking of deserts... It didn't help that the mare on me had the same color scheme as a cherry tart. I licked my lips as I kept thinking of the wonderful treat known as the cherry tart... but then I heard a rather girlish scream in the distance. "That beast is going to eat her!" I heard from somewhere in a growing crowd of animals. The mare woke up gently, and looked around with half lidded eyes... first at me, then at the crowd. "Alright ya beasty, let da lass go, an' na'body gets 'urt." An approaching zebra warned. The zebra was wearing quite the uniform, and it was decorated with medals of all sorts... he was probably the captain. "What's going on?" The red haired mare asked the captain. "Da beast was going ta 'ave ya for its first light meal." The zebra explained. The mare looked at the captain for a couple of seconds, and then shifted her view to me, a look of intrigue was on her face. "Were you going to eat me?" She asked, her voice was soft. "No." I answered quietly. "Yes it was. Da ting be lickin' its lips like it be given a ripe bowl of da flower ya know!" The zebra accused. "Why were you licking your lips?" The mare questioned, rather content to stay on my lap as she questioned me, even with all the risk it entailed. "You reminded me of a cherry tart." I answered. The mare brought one of her hoofs up to cover her mouth as she struggled, and failed, to suppress a girlish giggle. "I like you. What's your name?" She asked. I was about to answer, but I was rudely interrupted by the captain. "No more of dis nonsense, get em lads!" I got up slowly giving ample time for the rose haired mare to get off my lap safely. I sat down on the railing of the ship, and took in what was happening. About ten crew members were rushing toward me. They were all going full tilt, whether it be sprinting, or flying, but I still had plenty of time. I directed my attention toward the kind mare, so that I could answer her question. "I'm called many things, but most know me simply as The Kraken." I spoke nice and loud so everything could hear me. Unexpectedly, but all too amusingly, the crew members that had been approaching me slowed their pace... one even tripped. I looked toward the captain, his steely blue eyes had lost their edge, and I could have sworn I saw the color drain from his face. It appeared that legends from the sea still held their fabled effects on the sailors of this world... it was a curious thing to be sure. Slowly, I leaned backward, ready to dive into the depths of the sea. I herd rushing foot steps, and as I fell backward, I looked up."I'm Roseluck!" The red haired mare yelled to me with a smile I managed to get off a flirtatious wink before I hit the water. I was a good swimmer... secretly, and I suppose somewhat foolishly, I always thought having Kraken as a name helped me become one. I was one of the best swimmers on my high school team. I could hold my breath for five minutes without a problem, and my endurance swimming was on par with the best of them... unfortunately my sprints left a considerable amount to be desired. When I finally got my bearings underwater, I swam under the hull of the vessel so I could lose myself in the shadows the ship cast underwater. I didn't get that large of a breath whilst I was falling, so I probably had a maximum of three minutes of down time. I spent two of those relaxing, but as soon as the third minute started, I began my ascent. I slowly came out of the water, taking a deep breath as I surfaced. No one saw me yet... which was surprising, but nonetheless welcome. What wasn't dandy however, was the fact that the ship I was currently clinging to was stationary. It made sense, the vessel was too large to dock at a natural port... which meant the passengers would have to be ferried to shore. I'd have to focus if I wanted to stay hidden on my way to the island... or wherever it was the ship was docking. I waited until the ferries arrived to transport the passengers, then I took a deep breath, and submerged myself. I swam forward until I found myself under a ferry, and grabbed on to a dangling piece of rigging the ferry just so happened to have astern itself, letting myself get pulled along silently. I looked up, and did a double take. Looking back at me with half lidded eyes was Roseluck. "Nice seeing you again." She said quietly. "The feelings mutual." I returned, as I scanned the horizon for anything that might be looking for me. "Nopony's searching for you." Roseluck informed, as if reading my mind. I gave her a questioning look. "You scared every sailor on that ship half to death." She informed, "I wouldn't be surprised if you made a couple of them quit their jobs." She continued nonchalantly, leaning her head against her hoof. I didn't say anything, instead I just shrugged my shoulders. "So..." She said. "So what?" I asked. "Are you really the Kraken?" She asked. Again, I just shrugged my shoulders. "I thought so." She said, a smirk growing on her face. "What are you anyway?" I shrugged my shoulders yet again. "Quiet, aren't you?" She asked. "I guess. I'm sort of out of it... hunger does that to you." I answered the best I could. "How 'bout I get you some food when we reach land?" She offered. "That sounds good." I said, smiling at the prospect of a meal. I looked around... we'd be hitting land in less than a minute. I saw a patch of forest off to the left side of the port. I pointed over at the forest. "I'll be over there somewhere." I informed Roseluck. "Alright. I'll look around for you." She returned cheerfully. I had let go of the rigging on the rear of the ferry, and started to swim, but before I submerged myself Roseluck shot me a wink, the act bringing a smile to my face. The swimming was easy enough, it was when I reached shore that everything hit me like a ton of bricks. I had to crawl on hands, and knees up onto the rather small beach that found its place betwixt the ocean, and the forest. My clothing felt like lead, and my head ached something fierce. I puked my guts out on the sand, and just stayed there for a bit, trying to recover from my rather sub par disposition. I forced myself to rise to a somewhat standing position, slouching over slightly, and favoring my left leg. Once I was up on my feet, things started to get easier... I must have been literally starving for me to have that kind of reaction to a little exercise. I made my way into the woods. Once I broke through the initial tree line, I was greeted by a field of blue, exotic looking flowers. They filled the air with a sweet, and what only be described as warm, aroma. I dropped to my shaky knees, leaned over, and picked one of the flowers. I proceeded to take in the wonderful, if not a bit overpowering, scent. Once I got sick of the smell, and mustered up the considerable amount of will needed, I made my way toward the treeline on the opposite side of the surprisingly small, yet extremely thick, patch of forest. I didn't breach the treeline, opting to sit down a short way into the forest instead. I then proceeded to wait... if you could call it that. I was more fighting for consciousness. Eventually, Roseluck found her way into my line of sight. "Hey!" I yelled. Roseluck's eyes met mine, and I waved my hand, signaling for her to come to my position. She made her way over to me, and looked me over. "What happened to you?" She asked. "I wish I knew." I responded sincerely. She had a bag wrapped around her shoulder, and by biting down on a latch, she released it, having it drop to the ground. She opened it, and much to my delight, brought out multiple sandwiches. The sight was glorious. She offered me one, and I gladly accepted. I started eating without hesitation... Roseluck soon joined me. We'd finished about twenty minutes later, and Roseluck rested her head on my lap once more. I was about to voice my distaste for the action, when I heard a soft snore. I was lost in its sheer adorableness, and decided to just let her be. I looked up at the sky like every other day I found relatively enjoyable. It was night... when did it become night? Was I that dazed, or did I actually spend that much time resting at the base of the tree? Thoughts ran through my head a mile a minute, but it didn't matter. I was content now... so why should I care about anything else... right? Slowly sleep overtook my ability to stay aware. I had dreams that night... they were good dreams, I guess. It was all very cryptic, but a few things were certain, Gilda was to my right, Roseluck was to my lift, and in front of me was the world. I took Gilda's hand, and Roseluck offered her hoof. Together the three of us started to fall. Before we hit the ground, I woke up. The morning came sooner than I'd have liked, and my drowsiness was not an easy foe to fight off. I slipped back into my slumber multiple times, before I was completely awoken by Roseluck prodding my chest with her hoof. "What?" I asked. Roseluck just gestured toward my chest with her hoof with a wide grin plastered onto her face. I brought my hands up, and squeezed my new found assets. "I have tits...wait... WHAT?" Author's Note I can be lighthearted too! See, no dead things, and no depressing thoughts, just a potential love interest... and rule 63! Wow. I put a lot of effort into getting this to work right. I wanted to do something with Poison Joke, but everything I thought of wouldn't do. Poison Joke causes something embarrassing to happen to its victim... but here is the catch, it has to contrast with the victims personality. I couldn't think of anything that would still allow me to continue the story fluidly... until the internet happened. I was doing my own thing, just searching for some ideas, when BAM! I got my answers. Kraken is a real man... the kind of man that just exudes manliness. SO, rule 63. Now a new branch of the story starts, and the first layers are being added. Will Kraken regain his status as a male? What's with Roseluck? Will Gilda ever take on a role as more than just a side character? Find out when I finally decide to get my act together! Next time on The Equestrian Trace... this... this happens.
