As days go by...

by Blackmagic115

Rating: teen
Tags: Dark, Romance, Slice of Life, Human
Length: 12646

Waking up always sucked, blinding light, leaving the comfort and warmth of your bed. But, this morning will be more...'interesting' than bad.

Every morning usually goes along the same lines; get up, get dressed, go to work. Nothing ever changes, EVER and it's left you broken and alone. But one morning is all it takes to change everything…for better or worse.

EDIT: new cover art by Crisx3.

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2013-05-03 11:44:42 UTC

CHAPTER 1

PROLOGUE

The dim glow of the TV barely illuminates your near empty living room.

It was getting late and staring at the screen for so long was making your eyes burn.

Getting up you decide to keep the remote in hand until you reach the sanctuary of your room. Turning on the hallway lights would just fry your retinas, and you need your retinas.

After bumping into several furnishings on the way you finally make it and switch off the TV. Thankfully tonight was hot as hell so you don't have to waste time with the damn blankets and just flop onto the mattress, falling asleep almost instantly.

***

Your consciousness begins to return as your senses restarted and you feel a chill seeping through your clothes. There was also something soft and warm in your arms, curling up and pulling it close you (very) slowly begin to realize that it should be the middle of summer...and you didn't have a 'heated plushie' or anything of the sort. so what the hell were you holding? And where were you? As these panicked thoughts tear through your mind you're shocked to a halt.

A door, creaks open and a very hushed voice approaches you "Mom? Are you up yet?" more stress clenches you like a vice, you weren't holding something, you were holding someone.

After a slight shifting beside you another voice whispers "Somepony's excited, don't worry scoots we'll get his present and be back here with plenty of time to spare. I AM the fastest pegasus in Equestria ya know, not to mention your dad's been juggling work, Wonderbolt academy AND still spending time with you for those lessons." {what the fuck?!} whoever these two were they planned on leaving soon, so it was now time to play the waiting game, THEN figure out what the fuck is going on.

"Yeah I know, and that's why I'm so excited about it, I can't wait to see the look on his face when he opens it." these two sounded so familiar but with your confusion, shock and tiredness recognizing them would have to wait. The presence in your arms began to move again, slowly, trying not to wake you. When they were free several soft, almost inaudible footsteps and ever distancing whispers signaled you were in the clear, so to speak. You carefully cracked open one eye and were greeted with a pleasantly dim room, completely white and oddly poofy looking. You looked down to the bed you lay on and checked it, it looked just like the rest of the room and felt very...what's the word-plush, yeah that.

Rubbing your eyes and swinging your legs out of bed your senses sharpen at the oddness of the floor beneath you, it felt just like the bed, ever so slightly firmer but nonetheless the same. "What the fuck IS this?" thoroughly scanning the walls individually you don't find a whole lot. Window, double doors possibly a wardrobe, dressing table and a few posters...posters that you had seen before. "Wonderbolts? Oh god...Wonderbolts." you mentally kicked yourself for not catching on earlier, not only were you not home...you were in EQUESTRIA.

Those voices mentioned the Wonderbolts as well as outright saying Equestria, and now, thinking back, you recognized them as Rainbow dash and Scootaloo. Upon finding this your knees give out, dropping you to the cloud floor below, Scootaloo said 'mom' and Rainbow said something about 'your dad'. Joining the dots wasn't hard...but everything about this was surprisingly beginning to scare you, you had a family, you were in another world, and how the hell did all of this happen overnight?

"Just be patient kido, and besides, it doesn't matter HOW early we get there if I don't have the bits for it." before you could even make a coherent thought the cyan mare trotted in and seems surprised "Oh, I didn't think you'd be up yet. Is everything okay?"

You struggle to control your panicked, no, confused mind and decide to be safe and play along "Yeah I'm fine, just thought I felt a hole in the bed." you shoot her a smile and she gives one of her own in return, trotting to the dresser and retrieving a small bag probably the bits she mentioned. She sets her bits in her saddle bag and gives you a quick kiss on the cheek before leaving.

"We'll be back in a few hours, just doing a little more hearths warming shopping." you walk her to the door and

act as casual as possible.

"Hey dad!" the excited orange filly on the ground, waving at you with a huge smile, warms your heart. You were going to find out how you managed to turn your life around, that was for damn sure. You wave the two of them off as they disappear over the horizon.

"Bye girls, don't have too much fun without me!"

Once they're out of sight you scramble back into your room and swing open the wardrobe. Quickly slipping into a pair of jeans and a hoodie you go over the game plan once more "Go to Twilight and get her to figure out what the fuck is happening." not exactly a complex plan but still a good one.

And so off to the library you go. The cloud home was very close to the ground, you could almost jump up to the front door. After a quick glance you find a small ramp to the ground almost blending with the snow "Great, fucking SNOW now." and start off down the road to Ponyville.

***

Thankfully the walk into town wasn't too long, though a bit eventful. you got half way to the library until a shopkeeper started haggling you, but after a minute or so you just  pulled the "Is that a dissatisfied customer?" and legged it. Now in front of the large tree home you take in the amazement of seeing it in person for a moment before knocking, the small purple dragon swings open the door, rubbing his eyes and slouching so far he looked just about ready to fall over.

"Yeah?" he grumbled, clearly unhappy at his early wake up.

"Um, sorry 'bout waking ya up so early buddy, I need to see Twilight." Spike sighed and waddled upstairs, soon after you heard him waking Twilight.

"Twilight, Riley's here." there was a muffled thump soon after and a bedraggled lavender mare slowly made her way down the stairs.

"Good morning Riley, your up early. What did you need?" you twiddled your thumbs and thought of how to break the news of your situation.

"Well, why don't you take a seat Twi." her face grew serious and she sat herself upon a large recliner beside the fireplace.

Twilight was anxiously awaiting your news as you paced back and forth trying to think of how to begin "Twilight, how long have I been in Equestria?"

She cocked her head, unsure of what you were getting at "Um, a little over 3 years now, why?" you processed her response and took a deep breath, preparing to deal with a frantic Twilight

"Well, I...I don't remember it." Twilight's face contorted into a more confused stare than before

"Uh, what do you mean, 'don't remember'?" oh god dammit

"I mean, I don't remember ANY of it. One minute I was in my bed back on Earth and when I woke up I was in bed with rainbow." NOW she was shocked

"Nothing?" you shook your head, the situation starting to get to you after thinking about rainbow and scootaloo "Oh Celestia, how did this happen!?"

"How the hell am I supposed to know, I've got fucking amnesia Twilight!" you wanted her to understand you frustration but now was not the time to go off at ponies, you had to focus. If you couldn't reverse it then the least you wanted was to know how it happened, and ridiculous questions like that weren't gonna do anything to help. "I'm sorry, but as you can understand I'm a little stressed out right now. I was hoping you could help, or call the princesses so they could." Twilight put her hoof to her chin and stepped of her chair.

"I'll do whatever I can."

"Thank you." her horn glowed and a wide beam swept over you.

CHAPTER 2

After having done several scans on...well it was a bit too confusing but even after about an hour you still came up with nothing. "I'm sorry Riley, I just don't understand what's happening." Twilight hung her head as her ears dropped against it, you walked beside her and put a hand on her shoulder.

"It's okay Twi, so do we bring in the big guns now?" she didn't understand at first but quickly drew out a quill and paper. Just as she opened her mouth to call for spike you cover it with a quick hand, "I got it." you grab the completed letter and quill and sneak upstairs. Carefully approaching the sleeping dragon you crouch in position and hold the letter in front of his face, then lowering the quill down to his nose and wiggling it.

MEANWHILE

Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo had been slowly making their way into Ponyville, the young orange filly was bouncing about in a Pinkie pie fashion and fluttering her wings while waiting for her mother to share her enthusiasm "C'mon mom, I thought you were fast!" Rainbow giggled at how much like her her daughter was.

"Jeez Scootaloo, what has Riley been feeding you? We'll get there, don't worry."

"Urgh, fine." Scootaloo slowed her pace and walked beside Rainbow who wrapped a wing around her and pulled her just a bit closer.

"Sometimes you just gotta be patient, especially when you know what your waiting for will happen." Scootaloo rolled her eyes and sighed.

"Is this where you tell me how you met dad?"

"No, this is where I tell you how I got into the Wonderbolt academy." before Rainbow could begin she noticed princess Celestia's royal chariot heading toward Twilights library with both the regal sisters aboard, "Wonder what they're here for?"

***

"They're here." that was fast, considering how far Canterlot is. The front door was enveloped an unmistakable golden glow and in walked the goddesses of the sun and moon "Thank you so much princesses."

"Any time my student, now, what seems to be the problem?" Celestia then looked to you and nodded.

"It's Riley princess, he has some kind of amnesia, he can't remember any of his time here in Equestria. I've tried every scan spell I can think of but I just can't find what's causing it." both princesses could barely contain their shock, leading you to think you were important, which seemed like quite a possibility given your relationship with an element of harmony, physical advantages over ponies and resourcefulness you were probably part of the royal guard in some way. You also overheard Rainbow mentioning you at the Wonderbolts academy earlier, you were gonna need to ask about that...and a hell of a lot more.

"We will do what we can Twilight, but I am not sure." inspirational.

BACK TO THIS

"So if I can wait for the Wonderbolts I don't see how you can't wait for this." The mare and her filly finally arrived at Carousel Boutique.

"About time! I hope Rarity's finished." Scootaloo galloped through the door, almost knocking the bell off its hook as she did so, "Is it done yet?" she zipped up to the side of a very busy looking mare tinkering with a very fine chisel.

"Scootaloo please, I'm trying to concentrate dear. You DO want this to look good for you father do you not?" The orange filly slumped and took up one of the seats by the front door as her companion came in.

"Hey Rare, how's it lookin'?" A small pink, purple and white maned unicorn filly leapt from a nearby box and tackled her friend to the ground.

"It's fantastic! Rarity has it perfect, Riley's gonna LOVE IT." she let Scootaloo go and helped her to her hooves.

"How much longer though?" Scootaloo was still fidgeting with excitement.

"Just a little-, aaand...DONE! Ta-Da!" Rarity triumphantly held her fine work in front of Rainbows muzzle as Scootaloo stared in awe.

"Wow." was all she could say, she hadn't imagined her gift idea would've turned out so well. Rainbow reached into her saddlebag and tossed Rarity her payment while she slipped her purchase into it's case and tucked it into the bottom of her bag.

"Thanks Rare, you comin' Scoots?"

Scootaloo shook her head and moved to Rainbows side "Of course! The quicker we finish shopping the sooner I can give dad his AWESOME present. Thanks Rarity!" the flattered alabaster mare simply smiled.

"Well dear it was n-"

"Uh rarity, they're gone already." Rarity's attention returned to the doorway where her two friends once were.

"Oh, well, not to worry...you can still help me with some of my hearths warming orders Sweetiebelle." various textile tools

floated into the air and the two set to work.

***

"ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING!?" After having the princesses cast, very...very, powerful detection spells on you for over an hour you still came up empty. And those spells weren't exactly 'pleasant'.

"We are truly sorry but whatever has caused your amnesia surpasses anything we have ever encountered." Celestia stood beside you and rested a hoof on your shoulder while Luna rested, having almost overexerted her magic. "Though we may not be able to determine the cause I believe that we MAY be able to cure it Riley, but..." no way you were gonna let Celestia get something by you.

"But what?" you  raised an eyebrow and tried not to cringe from the splitting headache the spells brought on

"...It will not be immediate, it could take days, weeks or more possibly months for your memories to return. They will come in various flashes, snippets, and they may need triggers." the way you saw it, you didn't really have another choice, at least no other SMART one.

"Alright-"

"One last thing Riley...it...will be painful." you scoffed and moved in front of her, limbering up for one last spell.

"Pfft, all these other spells have been painful Tia, I think I can handle it."

Celestia looked you dead in the eye with a stern look and shook her head "No Riley, reconfiguration of ones mind is the most painful experience possible, the only ponies that I've ever seen it happen to have suffered severely, their minds crash, they either go insane or lose all higher brain function...and those were the minor cases." she shuddered at the last part. Minor cases? This idea was starting to sound stupider and stupider, and you had a hell of a lot of experience there. But what else could you do? Your life on Earth had been wasted, and you weren't going to let your Equestrian one suffer the same fate...especially since you meant something here.

You harden your face and return Celestia's soul piercing gaze "Do it."

"Ar-"

"Save your breath, I don't care what I have to go through...I want my life back." Celestia gave a small grin and  steadied herself.

"Twilight, Luna I will need your help for this." Luna stood up and took up her sisters stance, Twilight stopped twiddling her hooves and jumped in to complete the triangle they had around you. One by one their horns lit up and a small white light trail began spiraling at your feet. Gradually it sped up, faster and faster until it became a blur. But then a strand rose from the floor, like a cobra preparing to strike, working its way up till it was only just taller than you, it was almost hypnotizing...you couldn't look away.

As your curiosity bested your motor control, reaching your hand out to touch it, it lurched forward with unprecedented speed, delving into your forehead.

That's when it started.

The pain Celestia warned you about, and she was right. As the indescribable pain tore at your nerves images started flashing in your mind. You couldn't remember anything from them, they were just images. You saw one moment, blurred vision, everything spinning and moving in and out, until a small blue ball of 'fuzz' appeared and grew slightly, then black. You would be screaming from the pain, but you were likely in shock, as well as the spell forcing your mind run on basic functions, for it to worm it's way through your psyche. Your eyes grew heavier and heavier, thankfully you weren't going to be conscious for much longer, though you wished you were already out cold. Before you clocked out you saw one more scene.

You were sitting in what looked to be a gazebo, holding a picture frame with a bow tied around it. You looked to the horizon and saw four small figures, two of which were smaller, then to the sky where two other figures, ones that you could recognize from this distance, were approaching with great speed. Rainbow dash landed in a plume of dust and twigs, holding Scootaloo above her head with one hoof as she fluttered her wings, the vision engulfed in a small flash and you were now handing Scootaloo the picture frame, whatever it was really surprised her because she gasped and held a hoof to her mouth, as tears welled up in her eyes. Soon after she carefully put it down and smiled at you through her tears, diving at you and gripping you in a tight embrace while rainbow walked around and picked up the gift.

Now that you had a clear view of it, you noticed the bold writing at the top, '~Sunshine Pond~ adoption application' as well as two signatures at the bottom. A tear ran down your cheek and you actually managed a smile through the pain, at least for a second, before your body finally threw in the towel. A slightly messy, windswept purple mane in your face was the last thing you see before everything fades.

CHAPTER 3

The mare and her filly happily skipped home after their days work was completed. Scootaloo was especially thankful that she had no more time to wait to give her dad the present she put so much time into preparing. "Do ya think he'll like it mom?" Rainbow cocked her head and looked curiously at her daughter.

"You've been asking me that all day Scoots, of course he'll like it. Why wouldn't he?" Scootaloo stopped for a second before continuing her 'Pinkie pie impression'.

"You're right, it's like that camping trip, and we all know how awesome that turned out." Rainbow smiled at the memory, scootaloo was so happy that day. And Riley was one heck of a father, she had started calling him dad on instinct after the first 3 weeks. And even now, with his position in the royal guard and advanced combat training at the Wonderbolt Academy he always made time to spend with his daughter. {That stallion deserves father of the year} Rainbow thought as they finally reached home.

The two stepped into their home and were about to set the groceries away when Twilight greeted them from the living room, "Hey girls." Rainbow dropped her saddlebags off near the door and trotted in to greet her friend.

"Hey Twi, whatchya doin?" Twilight looked away and brought her voice down to a whisper.

"I need to talk to you. It's important." Rainbow nodded and ushered her friend onto the couch.

"Scootaloo could you just drop the groceries in the kitchen sweetie?" Scootaloo became a little worried, she'd seen moments like this before...and they didn't come with good news.

"Yeah, sure." she picked up her mother’s saddlebag and moved it to the kitchen, placing her own in there as well.

Rainbow tried to comfort Twilight as best she could but she seemed very distressed "Twi, what's wrong? You can tell me...is it Riley?" at those last words Twilight's whole body tensed, she was hoping she didn't have to tell Rainbow, but Riley was not in a well enough state for her to honor his request.

"Well," she took a slow, deep breath and began "he wanted to tell you this himself but, he-"

"Rainbow?" a voice called from upstairs "Twi, is that Rainbow?" Twilight relaxed, now that she didn't have to be the bearer of bad news.

{Hearing it from him would be best anyway} she thought "Go, he needs you." she slowly shooed Rainbow away with her hoof and slumped back on the couch, sighing.

"I-Is he alright Twi?" Scootaloo, having overheard most of the conversation between the two was almost in tears with concern. Twilight felt guilt rip at her insides, it was bad enough that this was happening but seeing the look on Scootaloos face was heartbreaking.

The full realization that the loving family that the human had once held so dear could be discarded at any moment if he couldn't remember it, or that the same could happen with everything else he had achieved in Equestria. She walked up to the shaking filly and gently hugged her "He's going to be fine scootaloo, I promise."

Scootaloo looked up, the tears she held back finally making their way down her cheeks "You promise?" her voice barely above a whisper and barely understandable through the choked back sobs, Twilight pulled her close again and rocked her back and forth before she began crying too.

"I haven't broken a promise to you yet, and I don't intend to start now."

***

Soon after you called out there were foo-hoofsteps heading upstairs and Rainbow came into your room "Hey." you spoke as quietly as you could, still having the unbearable headache from earlier.

"Hey. So are you feeling alright? Twi said you weren't doin' too good." well ain't that the truth. She flew over and sat next to you on the bed placing a hoof on your leg, her soft gaze immediately calming you.

You wanted to stall, just to see her like this a little more before the crying. Taking a deep breath, and her hoof in your hand, you look into her eyes and sit up "Rainbow, you remember I was acting a little strange this morning?" she nodded "Well that's because...I don't remember anything before it."

You had expected-no, hoped that she would get it right away so that you didn't have to try and explain it. But you had no such leisure, Rainbow huddled closer to you and put her free hoof on your shoulder "What do you mean?" a single tear ran down your cheek and you wanted to get the explanation out of the way so you wouldn't have to choke back sobs to get through it.

"I woke up today, with no recollection of ANY of the time I've spent in Equestria. All I know is what I've been told or pieced together from everything else." you spoke quickly and cringed, trying to keep your tears in check. Rainbow simply stared at you with wide eyes, taking a moment to process the shock.

"So...nothing?" her voice beginning to crack as her grip on you tightened.

"No, but Twilight and the princesses helped...they used the memory spell from Discord's attack, just supercharged," you tapped you head with your knuckle "so my memory'll come back..." you were hesitant at telling her that. You were never guaranteed that the spell would work. "...not right away, but eventually, piece by piece. It could take quite a while too so, we just need to hang in there okay?" Rainbows sudden jolts and stuttering breaths made trying to comfort her harder than you expected and you could barely keep yourself calm in the meantime, sniffling and pulling her in close for a tight hug.

You gently rocked back and forth stroking her mane as she let her emotion out and after several minutes a quiet, shaken voice comes from the doorway "Mom? Dad? Are you okay?" you look up through your teary eyes and smile at Scootaloo standing a few meters away.

Rainbow looks up too and holds out a hoof "Yeah...c'mere honey, it's alright." scootaloo quickly trotted up to the bed and flutter-jumped on, next to you. She instantly hugged you, as tightly as she could from the feel of it.

"Dad?" you look down at her and brush some stray locks of mane out of her eyes.

"Yeah?"

"Are you gonna be okay? I heard Twilight and she sai-"

Rainbow speaks up "He's gonna be fine Scootaloo, he's just..." she was trying to put in a brave face but...she looked to you to finish her sentence.

"I'm just worn out, haven't been getting enough rest like I should. Some time off and I'll be good as new." you finish off with a smile and Rainbow mimics.

"See? Mom was right, she kept on telling me that you were overworking yourself." you look up and smile at Rainbow, smiling back at you with 'I told you so' written all over her muzzle. You laughed and stroked Scootaloo’s mane for a moment before Rainbow swept both of you into a group hug, with scootaloo nuzzling into your chest and Rainbow into your neck. You just sat there and enjoyed the moment {this is what it's like to be loved} and this was just today, thinking about what memories you held brought a smile to your face. And you were gonna fight for every second of them back.

CHAPTER 4

After having told Rainbow about your current situation you had asked Twilight to help inform ponies that you had plans with that you weren't going to be able to make it, only to be told that the princesses already set about doing it. You thanked her for all the help and she returned to the library to meet with the rest of the girls to tell them. After Twilight left Scootaloo suddenly jumped off the bed and ran out of the room spouting something about a present, you looked at Rainbow and when you asked what it was about she just smiled and shook her head.

As quickly as she'd left, Scootaloo returned with a small case held in her mouth. She trotted up to you with a huge smile and plonked it into your hand, "Open it!" you chuckled and slowly parted the lid of the case. Inside was a shimmering pair of Aviator sunglasses, light blue- or cyan lenses, bronze trim and two symbols engraved in the outer corners of each lens. One you recognized as Rainbow's cutie mark, but the other you had to think about for a moment until you realize that it was the cutiemark crusaders insignia. (a pair of those would be fucking SICK)

The glasses in front of you began to fade into the white floor until the next moment where you now stood on a roof overlooking a line of ponies standing at attention on a runway with an orange mare shouting at them. You smiled and dove off, expecting to hit the ground, but instead hearing a deep *pomf* and quickly tilting upward till you were level. Wings, you had wings!

You soared past quite a few pegasi and when you almost reached the group, you retracted the feathered appendages and dropped at great speed towards them, and it was a long drop, one you were sure you would not walk away from. A split second before hitting the ground however you felt yourself become lighter and an unexplained force push you ever so slightly back up and you gracefully touched down, emitting a small gust of wind.

Several of the ponies lined up were looking at you with dropped jaws, and as you scanned the group all but two, were awestruck. Those two were Rainbow dash and...another mare that you didn't seem to recognize, though you had the nagging feeling you should. The pair were smiling at you, one sweet and kind and the other of admiration. The mare that had been doing the yelling from before, dressed in an officers uniform of some sort, started up again "Ah sir, how nice of you to drop in. This here newbies is commander Specter. Lately he has been scouting the academy for some Spec Ops recruits for the royal guard! But I doubt any one of you would have a chance." she turned to you and saluted, which you returned in kind.

"At ease captain. I'll let you get back to breaking in the fresh meat..." you eyed the line-up carefully, deciding to have a little fun with them yourself.  Slowly walking up to an already trembling mare you keep you're stone faced expression until you get right up in her face. Once you are you give her you're meanest scowl, which is probably a lot scarier to ponies as she nearly collapses. You turn to Spitfire and nod "As you were."

Walking off you shoot a smile at Rainbow as you heard 'the good captain' get back to business. The mare beside her now had a sly grin and winked as you passed. Returning the gesture with a glare you stretched your wings and took off once more, the clear blue sky growing ever pale.

***

And now here you were again, sitting on your bed. Rainbow by your side and Scootaloo looking expectantly at you "Do ya like it?" she hopped up and down, wings buzzing loudly. You pulled the glasses out, slowly resting them on your face and grinned at your little energetic filly.

"I love it." you sweep her up and gave her another hug. You were confused but by the looks of things your little flashback had barely lasted a second, not to mention that it felt so real. Crazy business, magic.

After a few seconds Rainbow broke the silence "C'mon Scoots, ya gotta let him rest. Why don't ya go hang with your friends for a while." she smiled at you and Scootaloo sighed, jumping off and walking out.

"I know what you're thinking, and that's NOT rest mom!" you hear Scootaloo call before the front door closing. Rainbows face instantly flushed and you fared no better

"Heh, she just-" you cut her off as you burst into laughter before clutching your aching temple soon after. "Oh are you alright?" You nodded, slowly so as not to make the pain any worse.

"Yeah fine, just got a killer headache from all those damn spells fuckin' with my head."

"One sec." Rainbow whisked out of the room and returned seconds later with a glass of water.

"Thanks." you whisper downing the small glass in one go. Rainbow then raised a hoof to your forehead and seemed focused on it intently "Uh, what are-"

"Shh."

You shut your mouth and let her proceed with...whatever it was. A few seconds later the tip of her hoof let out a faint blue glow, as did her eyes. You were so caught up with your curiosity that you almost didn't notice the throbbing pain in your head fade away. "How did-"

"Y-...you taught me." Rainbow smiled and looked away, shuffling her hooves.

"Let's see if we can't cheer you up then." Rainbow perked up with interest as you rose from the bed, walking to the wardrobe.

"I'm fine really I-"

"You're not fine Rainbow. If this were happening to me I would be far from it, and we're not so different. That's one of the things I love about you." you recovered your hoodie from earlier as well as a scarf and some fingerless gloves. Rainbow hadn't moved, frowning with her eyes fixed on her hooves.

Once you're dressed you lay a scarf over her neck and sit by her side "It's gonna be alright. You have friends and family that won't let anything stop you." you wrap an arm around her and stroke her cheek. She calms down and weakly smiles, holding your hand to her cheek.

"I just hope it works. Ever since I heard about your life on Earth-...I just don't want you to have to go through something like that again." the glint in her eyes is enough call for you to pull her into a hug, and she instinctively wrapped her wings around you. "C'mon, let's go have some fun." she pulled away and wore a rather devious grin "Race ya." before she finished her sentence you were already sprinting to the window, diving through it a second later. You had no idea just how high the house was though, or how thin the snow was however.

{Well...assumption IS the mother of all fuck ups} You try a roll just before you hit the ground but it's too late and simply end up slamming down onto your side after landing, and now you've hurt your ankle AND shoulder. Not the best of ideas but you look back up to the mare in the second story window "I win!" she did NOT look happy {oops?}.

Rainbow whizzed down and stomped over to you "What were you thinking!?"

"Rainbow c'mon I just-"

"What if you really hurt yourself Riley!? Then what!?"

You let out a defeated sigh and rubbed your aching shoulder, kneeling down close to her "I'm sorry, I know that was probably pretty stupid."

"Probably!? Riley if you'd-"

"I know, I really am sorry Rainbow I-..." You sighed and hung your head, she was worried enough as is and you were pulling idiotic shit like this. "I'm an idiot."

She lifted your head and pulled you closer, pressing her nose to yours as she stared deep into your eyes "You're my idiot, but promise you won't scare me like that anymore okay."

"Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." The two of you chuckled as you closed your eyes and kissed her softly. You'd have to do something to make it up to her later.

You heard some shuffling and before you could think you were greeted by a face full of ice and giggling. "It...is...on." you scooped up a handful of snow as rainbow jumped back and prepared to dodge the incoming attack. Only to be struck from the side by none other...than Scootaloo "That's my girl." you felt another wave of cold hit your face and drew your attention back to Rainbow, narrowing your eyes as you quickly confirmed your trajectory.

CHAPTER 5

You sat under the tree near your home, Scootaloo snuggled up in your lap and Rainbow by your side with her hooves tightly wrapped around you. All things considered?

Better than any day of your whole life back on Earth.

"It's getting dark, we better get going." Rainbow slowly stood up and helped you to your feet without waking Scootaloo. On the short walk back you admired the sunset for a moment, the orange glow coloring and illuminating the dull white fields and icicles hanging from the trees. Rainbow was at the door already and you must've taken a little more than a moment because she impatiently cleared her throat and lead you upstairs to Scootaloo's room on the top floor.

Now that you had a real chance to check out the cloud house it was far more impressive than in the show, bigger too. Of course Rainbow may have renovated when you moved in, even more when Scootaloo did. You lay Scootaloo down and slowly tuck her in. She stirs for a moment, readjusting to the fluffy bed and you carefully sneak to the door. "I love you dad." your body freezes and the chill seeping into the room goes unnoticed as you smile uncontrollably.

"I love you too Scoots. G'night." you take your time heading back to yours and Rainbows room as you savor both the joy you feel from your daughters words and the pictures hung in the hallway.

Fun times of you and Dash on various dates, you with a suitcase and a duffel bag in front of your new home. As you go on, more recent and important photos catch your eye. You saluting and accepting a scroll from Shining Armour, Rainbow with a teary smile as you knelt before her...all things you wish you could remember NOW. Having to wait for this was going to be hell, but you were here, in Equestria...finally. Nothing would ruin that, ever.

You finally arrived at your room but Rainbow was standing in front of the bed, pawing at the floor "What is it?"

She shuffled her hooves together "Well I thought that, since you can't remember...'us' I just figured I'd ask if you're okay with sleeping in the same bed an-"

"It's fine. In fact I'd umm...prefer it." you threw in an awkward smile with your now bright red cheeks and she sighed in relief.

"Well, let's get some sleep then. We've got a big day tomorrow." she flew over the bed and threw the thick blankets back.

"What's happening tomorrow?" you climbed in next to her and pulled your blankets back up.

"It's Hearths Warming day. Scootaloo just couldn't wait to give those awesome shades." you lay back into the pillows and turn towards her.

"What if she finds out?"

Rainbow snuggles in close and tightly hugs you "I hope to Celestia that she doesn't have to...but-"

"I'll make sure she won't, and just know I'm always here if you need anything. I still love you Rainbow."

She squeezed tighter and made herself comfortable "Thank you." You limply wrap your arms around her and allow the events of the day to hit you like a ton of bricks, falling asleep almost instantly.

***

You stood in a large, empty field "This should be interesting."

"That'd be one word for it." you spin around to find the source of the voice. "Over here idiot." in front of you a figure slowly begins to materialize. An arm, torso...once the face was visible you payed no attention to the rest.

"Lauren? Holy shit, even now I didn't think it'd be true."

"That what would be true?" you could sense some annoyance in her tone.

"I dunno, that you're Equestria's 'God'." she nodded and walked over to you.

"Stop searching for your memories Riley...you won't like what you find."

[What the fuck did she just say?]

"What?" you put as much anger into your response as you could, hoping she'd get the message.

"These things happen for a reas-"

"Just what WILL I find Lauren?" you stared daggers into her eyes, you weren't gonna let anyone stop you. You'd kill if you had to...goddess or not.

Lauren returned you glare and stepped back before fading away "A monster." The echo of her voice lingered, and grew louder...and louder.

Soon enough it was deafening, and increasing in pitch till it was and unbearable screech. You clutched your head as your legs gave out. The screech turned into screams, cries for help...begging, crying and maniacal laughter.

Through it all a furious voice lashed out "It's your fault! It's all your fault!!"

You shot upright, gasping for air sweating like crazy. "What the fuck?" you look out the window, noticing it being too bright to be morning. At least you got a decent amount of sleep. {Well, not like I was gonna get back to sleep anyway} Between the nightmare and your earlier headache giving and encore, sleep was most certainly out of the question.

Then a soft, angelic voice reached your ears "Feeling better?"

"Yeah, a bit." obviously a lie, you were probably worse off than yesterday.

"Well I'm gonna be here to take care of you for a couple days too. Coffee?" she trotted in levitating two cups of-LEVITATING!!?

"Let me guess, I taught you THAT too?" you pointed to one of the cups as it floated to your hand.

Rainbow suddenly realized you weren't used to seeing her use magic "Oh yeah just a little levitation, I can't do anything heavier than say...an average pony but it just makes things a bit easier."

"That sounds like me alright. I'm surprised at myself."

Rainbow cocked an eyebrow and fluttered up next to you "How so?"

You downed a mouthful of coffee and pulled her onto the bed "I managed to make the most awesome mare in Equestria even more awesome."

She giggled a bit and slapped your arm "Guess you haven't forgotten your charm huh."

"Oh I was BORN like this girl." She leans her head against you, letting out a sigh "Comfortable?"

"Mhmm."

You kiss her cheek and softly stroke her neck "Good."

After a minute or so a strange, musky smell comes to your attention, "What IS that?"

"What's what?"

You sniff the air a bit to be sure you’re not imagining it "That smell."

Rainbow drops her head and blushes furiously "Oh, that's umm...me."

"Uh, whaddya mean?" Rainbow looked away and mumbled something "What?"

"I'm..."

"I can't hear you."

"I'm in..."

You grab her chin and turn her face to yours "Whatever it is, you can tell me. It's alright."

She sighed, and now sat upright in front of you "I'm, in heat."

{In heat. In heat, in heat, in-...} "Oh...so um-"

"I can take care of myself. You...don't have to...ya know, 'Help'."

[Couldn't hurt ya know]

Are you fucking kidding!? Uh she's a pony dude<

[Your point?]

You what the fuck my point is<

You dismiss the voices arguing in your head and rest a hand on her shoulder "If you need me, just say so okay."

Rainbow shot up in surprise "Wait so, your fine with..." you gave a nod and smiled "Well, not now. I mean, it's not bad at the moment but maybe when I get back..." as she trails off you lean in and give her a quick kiss. And you feel a slight weightlessness hit you.

***

You were sprinting through the streets of Ponyville, dodging ponies left right and center. Many of whom watched in awe at your display, even you were impressed by your own agility.

But love is a powerful thing.

After going till your legs couldn't carry you, and then some, you were now at the Ponyville outskirts. A small hill in the middle of the vast green land surrounding the town. Almost nopony came out here...almost.

"RAINBOW!" you waited for a response. Nothing "RAINBOW!!"

"Yeah yeah I'm comin'! Don't get your feathers in a twist!"

{Now or never}

Rainbow swooped off her home and hovered down to you "Riley? What the hay was with the yelling?"

{Do it! Do it now!} You held your hands behind your back and they were shaking so violently the flowers in them almost went flying out. "Yeah, sorry 'bout that. I um...I just-..."

"You, what?"

[If I were a person I would punch you in the fucking face right now. Tell her!!]

"What's that behind you?"

She flew around you before you could hide the bouquet and heard her gasp. You turned around, slowly handing her the flowers "I love you."

Her expression didn't change from her pure shock for several moments until you saw a tear roll down her cheek "I'm sor-"

Your apology is cut short as she snatches the flowers from your hand then dives at your chest and hugs you, feeling her tears seep through your shirt.

"I love you too."

{What the fuck just happened?}

[askgfbrx]

{Whatever, I don't need you anyway} You eventually release each other but just when you think Rainbow couldn't surprise you anymore she kisses you.

Still with her hooves around your neck the force nearly pushes you over until you press against her lips. She once again breaks away, licking her lips and smiling at you "So...now what? I didn't exactly have much faith in myself."

She giggles and lets go of you at last, dropping to the ground "Well umm, how about you meet me at The Toadstool tomorrow say...8?"

"It's a date." She gives you one last peck on the lips and shoots back to her house leaving you with your thoughts. {She loves me too. We have a date tomorrow. This is the second best day EVER!!}

[Did you REALLY not have faith in that plan?]

{Why the fuck would I? None of my plans ever worked on Earth…but that changed when Lauren-doesn't matter now, it worked and I am very happy} After a mandatory fist pump you slowly made your way home with a smile plastered on your face as the sunset before you began to lose color.

***

You blinked a few times to get your vision focused. "The Toadstool, 8 o'clock."

"Wha?"

You leaned back and grinned ear to ear "Our first date."

Her face lights up "You remember it?"

"I think I did better. I remember what happened the day before."

She smiled and glanced at the alarm clock behind you "I gotta meet Twi soon, should be back in a few minutes. You okay here by yourself?"

"I'm an elite commander of the Canterlot royal guard special forces, I can handle a couple minutes alone." Rainbow paused, staring blankly at you for a moment "I remembered my little talk to you and the other recruits."

"Oh. Well, I better get going, you-"

"Know how Twilight gets pissy when ponies are late?"

"Exactly."

"Well?" Rainbow shakes off the distant look in her eye and finally takes off for her meeting. And now you're alone. There's only one thing that anyone can do at a time like this...

"BOOOOORING!!"

You had extensively inspected the entire house top to bottom, excluding Scootaloo's room. You weren't going to be that kind of dad. "Now I know why I worked so much, exhaustion is way better than this bullshit."

After tending to the headache from your earlier memory fragment, finally you found something interesting. A locker, but a locker with a keypad. "Well, well, well. If games have taught me one thing, it's that these always have good shit in 'em."

Nearly an hour had gone by and it was beginning to get ridiculous "What is the fucking code!!?" but an idea sprang to mind at your words earlier '...one thing games have taught me...' "Am I really that lazy?" in one final attempt you enter the code.

'1...1...5'. The doors click and slowly swing open "Well fuck me."

***

Twilight was working on one of her reports to princess Celestia as per usual when an odd smelling mare landed on her balcony, "Hi Rainbow. How's Riley doing?"

"Oh uhhh, yeah he's fine. I wanted to talk to you about something." Twilight left her desk and took a seat on her recliner, as Rainbow nervously stepped to the couch.

"Jeez Rainbow, I haven't seen you this nervous since you asked me what Riley told me about human mating." then the bookworm had an epiphany "So THAT'S what I smelled."

Rainbow finally sat down and explained herself, rather quickly in her embarrassment "I don't think I can take going without him Twi, I'm so used to it that I might just go crazy. I told him earlier and he said he was okay with 'it' but I'm not sure if he really IS, because the first time he was so nervous and-"

"Rainbow, relax. Didn't you tell me that when the two of you were friends he promised to do anything to help you?"

"Yyyeah?"

"Well if he was willing to go that far when you were just friends, don't you think he'll help with this now that he knows about your relationship?"

Rainbow laid back on the couch and eyed the ceiling in thought. Twilight was right, he was the most dedicated friend anypony could ask for, and in the 2 years they had been together he was always by her side no matter what. "You're right. And he even remembered when he finally told me how he felt, so there's no way he's just patronizing me. Thanks Twi."

The lavender mare smiled and returned to her studies "You're welcome, now I believe you have a stallion to see to."

And so without a moment’s hesitation Rainbow rocketed out of the tree, homeward bound...and grinning ear to ear.

CHAPTER 6

This locker was your...seventh best discovery so far. Inside was your weapons and armour, which you either didn't use or could summon given the state of the lockers hinges. A katana with a pitch black blade and red trim as well as two tanto swords. Being a ninja always sounded awesome, not only that but you get to be a ninja with motherfucking wings."Kick ass."

The armour looked like what you'd get if Ezio had got his hands on some Daedric armour. (Hurray for viddiya game referencing? Use your imagination)

While you were evaluating your badassery with all your new toys, you heard a gust of wind accompanied by the unmistakable sound of somepony landing on a cloud. You shoved your gear back into the locker and closed it before heading out to greet the mare you were expecting.

Then what you were also expecting was her tongue down your throat the second you entered the hallway, on her hind legs, pushing you back into a wall. When she pulls away to breathe she notices your shit eating grin "What?"

"You're not a very good liar Dashie."

"What are you talking abou-"

"You went to Twilight for advice about whether or not you should do 'this'."

Her face flushed as she avoided your half lidded gaze, "Well, I-I just kinda-"

"I told you I'd be there for you, and I meant it. No if's, no but's, anything you need...ANYTHING, you need." you tilt her chin up to look her in the eyes "I love you."

Her hesitation seems to wash away as she dives into your mouth once again, and this time you return the passion getting a few low moans from her. You could tell Rainbow was getting impatient as she started trailing a hoof across your chest while the other hooked around your neck. This was only after a couple seconds too.

[This is just the start? Dayum! Have fun]

A pony!<

[We're not on Earth, your point is no longer valid, and regardless she is so fucking adorable]

Yeah so are puppies but I'm not gonna bang one<

[She's an alien not an animal why the fuck are you so damn racist?]

What?! I'm not being racist, she's cool and all I just don't think we should be...<

When Rainbow stopped her onslaught to catch her breath you slid your hands down to her haunches and picked her up "Bedroom?"

She panted and eyed you up "Too far...couch."

"Couch?"

"Couch...now, please."

She looked so cute, pleading eyes, bitting her lower lip...pressing her nose to yours. "Couch it is."

***

You feel a light tug on your shirt sleeve and carefully open your eyes so as not to be blinded by light. "Dad, can I sleepover at the clubhouse with the crusaders tonight?" a glance at the still sleeping mare curled up on your chest meant this was up to you.

"Sure. When are you going?"

"I was gonna head out soon, I just gotta pack."

"Alright then."

Scootaloo quietly ran upstairs and returned with stuffed saddlebags, "See ya." as she approached the door an urge hit you.

"Hold on, c'mere." she slowly walked over, eyes fixed on Rainbow.

"Yeah?"

You smile and plant a quick kiss on her forehead and tousle her already messy mane "Have fun."

"I will. Don't let mom kill ya while I'm gone."

"I'll try. Happy Hearths warming."

"Happy Hearths warming dad."

After Scootaloo trotted out Rainbow began to stir "You really are the best dad ever ya know." she stretched out and nuzzled you, her soft lips sending a quick chill through your neck.

"I've gotta keep up with the best mom ever."

Rainbow lifted her head and stared into your eyes, grinning "Why are you so good to me?"

[Seems obvious]

"I can think of plenty of perfectly good reasons. But the main one...would be that you saved me. I don't know how much I've told you about Earth but I really was absolutely miserable there, then I come here and meet this mare with a crazy mane and crazier friends..." you nudge rainbow and smile before softly running your fingers through her mane. "...And I felt love like I never thought I would. So to try and repay you for everything you've done for ME, I'm going to have to make you the happiest mare in Equestria and then some."

Rainbow looked on the verge of tears as her smile grew. "I love you, so much."

"I love you too, I don't think I could ever tell you that enough Dashie."

"You could always show it." you pieced together what she meant from her tone and hoof moving up your leg.

"You...have a...valid...point." you barely managed to get out between her ever quickening kisses.

***

"Again? Gimmie a break." the woman watching from her ethereal plain stormed off in frustration. "She can't keep him there forever, they can't be THAT happy. Can they?"

'Maybe you should've trusted him, he knows what he's doing Lauren.'

"No! He knew what he was risking when he didn't listen to me. He put himself and ALL of Equestria in danger!" she closed her eyes and tried to calm down "If he remembers what Bloodwing did to him at the shrine, he won't be able to control it this time."

'So give him his good memories before then and it'll-'

"I said no!!"

'What if this were you and-'

"Don't you dare pull that crap on me."

'I'm just saying.'

"There has to be something I can do. I won't have the most dangerous being in Equestria's history roaming freely while I still have a chance to stop him."

Lauren looked into the dimly glowing sky over her middle world. Contemplating her next course of action.

***

Rainbow collapsed onto your chest, heaving for air. "Maybe, now...we could...go up-...upstairs?" still trying to catch your own breath. Heat was a difficult time already, not that it wasn't rewarding though.

"Why? Scootaloo, isn't here right?" She had a point but you still wouldn't be comfortable if someone came to the door while...you know.

"Yeah but what if somepony just decides to walk in...like Pinkie, you know how she is."

She put a hoof to her chin clearly in mock thought "Well, we would have more room on the bed. Aww but my legs are tired and I can't fly with my wings like this." she cocked her head at you with a triumphant smile across her muzzle.

A deadpan stare was all you let on, she knew you so she should've been expecting it when you pick her up and rise to your feet in one smooth motion. But you still heard her yelp. "Did I startle you my dear?" you tease before marching upstairs to continue the days...'activities'.

Also hoping that Rainbow didn't work you to death. The burn in your abs was a clear indicator of what was in store.

[Lauren did something]

{O rly?}

[Shouldn't we investigate]

{There's no chance we'll find anything}

[Ask Rainbow]

{Not now}

[If you say so]

***

Princess Celestia took a moment to appreciate her sisters’ night before stepping back into her room for some much deserved rest. The worries about her logician and his protection of Equestria still abundant in her mind, whether or not he would make a full recovery was now up to fate. Though from what she knew about his past...fate was not on his side.

She lifted off her regalia and slipped under the large silk sheets of her bed, slowly willing herself to sleep. "I need your help." a soft voice echoed in the Princesses mind, she would've been startled awake, she should've been startled awake but for some reason she couldn't wake up no matter how hard she tried.

But that voice sounded like somepony she knew "Who are you?"

"A friend."

"Why do you need my help?" there was silence for a while before she got a response.

"Because of Riley."

{Why can't I wake up?}

"Because I am keeping you asleep, so our conversation will not be interrupted Celestia."

"Is this really so important?"

"The fate of Equestria hinges on your decision to help me!!" Celestia cringed at the sudden outburst as it soon calmed down.

"What do you need me for?"

"It should be a very simple task now, he's vulnerable but if you hesitate this opportunity and Equestria will be lost."

"So what would you have me do?"

***

"Finally." you sigh after walking out of the bathroom to find Rainbow sound asleep, exhausted at last. Her enthusiasm was fine, but the pain was catching up to the joy, 5 times may not seem too crazy to some but in her 'state'...ouch. Not to mention she was quite kinky but you were far from complaining about it.

[She is a handful, but this is Rainbow Dash]

Oh please, you make me sick. Why did you do that?<

{First off who the fuck are you?}

You<

{What?}

You heard me. How do you think you've survived long enough to be with Rainbow<

{Bullshit}

Really? Take a look<

***

You feel a hand holding your arm and dragging you through the air over a large forest. "Here." the frustrated voice grunted.

"Where the fuck IS here?" You plummeted through the canopy and landed on the wet, muddy forest floor without incident. But your attention was instantly drawn to the sounds of combat in a dimly lit clearing beside you. Upon investigation you find a manticore, and by the looks of it, not a very happy one. Whoever or whatever was on the other side of it you couldn't see, but they must've been ballsy.

Then came a very cynical, grim voice "Come on then. A new rug would really bring my living room together." this set the manticore off, diving toward the speaker only for you to- YOU!? You shook your head and continued to watch your past self, sidestep the attack and slash at the manticores shoulder with the same sword sitting in your locker. Roaring in pain the manticore threw a frenzied swipe with its uninjured leg missing you entirely.

As the thought to cheer yourself on came to mind you felt something tugging you forward as patches of your body began to fade out and turn to ghostly wisps absorbed by you past self until you were now re-experiencing the event.

The weight of the blade in your hand, sweat running down your brow...and the irresistible urge for violence.

CHAPTER 7

Music

As you stared into your attackers eyes, in your peripherals you could see two shaking balls of blue and yellow under a tree. And now it...was...ON. You could feel your chest tighten and heart speed up, then after a slight warmth flowed through your eyes accompanying a red haze you charged the manticore head on, sliding underneath it just before catching a swipe to the face. As you popped up behind the beast you quickly notice it's stinger swinging futily at you, dodging each of the would-be blows seems as easy as breathing while you watch the aggressors failure time and time again. Step by step, ducking and weaving ever so gracefully.

Once you spot the first sign of fatigue in the attacks, you tighten the grip of your sword and embed it right into the middle of the manticores tail. One quick flick and you could lop it off, and that was what you thought youd've done. Instead opting to drive your blade up to the base of it and swing back down to finish off, while you take a step back to admire your handy work. Now screeching in agony before you, is the only manticore to ever have it's tail completely split down the middle.

The sight of it was so...satisfying, toying with your prey and dealing so much pain. Finally having control and allowing the rage and hatred you had bottled up over so many years to flow out in such fluid motion. An irrepresible toothy grin peels across your face as you wait for the manticore to stop it's hysteric attempts to repair the damage you had just done, oblivious to your plan...and power. Eventually the beast recovers enough composure to face you again, once more looking into your eyes. As you stare back with your grin and see it falter for a second, as well as the absolute terror in its glazed eyes. It was crying.

Whether from the pain or terror you this beast was going through it felt indescribably satisfying to see, and yet you still felt your body screaming for more...>Pathetic waste of flesh! Finish this, NOW!<. In a fit rage and desperation it threw a flurry of strikes at you, alternating between claws and flicking it's mutilated stinger at you, splashing blood and venom over you. Stepping back with each avoided attack, you observe the injured shoulder closely and spot a hitch every time it swings.

That's it, now's the time to end it. In a split second as it's claw rises for another blind swing, you step forward and twist into a palm strike to the inside of it's shoulder feeling a shiver of pleasure at the solid pop echoing from it. As your victim rears up you catch a glance at the bone jutting out of the gash inflicted earlier before it falls into one last ditch attempt to hit you.

Bringing down it's claw, only to meet your incoming sword. Effortlessly holding up the full weight of the helpless creature, it looked down on you and you could see a perfect reflection of yourself in it's eyes. Which was quite scary. The first thing you noticed was the fangs framed in your maniacal grin, but worse was your eyes. You're eyes a deep red encircled by pitch black instead of the white that they should be, as badass as it looked it could only involve something or someone unsafe to your mental health. Once you've observed yourself for a second you twist the blade to face the front of the manticores paw and, in a flash, tear it through and spin around to slash through it's head before it drops. The instant your blade makes the final blow the cries of pain stop and the thump of the large corpse hitting the forest floor cues several pairs of yellow eyes to disappear into the dark sea of ferns and bushes.

A few seconds of savoring your victory was soon replaced with disgust and concern. "Fluttershy, Rainbow." You drop the sword and run over to a pair of pegasi wearing awestruck expressions, "Are you two okay?" realizing your presence and worry they both snap out of their trance.

"U-um y-yes, we're fine." Fluttershy lowers herself and steps back an inch, understandable considering

what you just did.

Rainbow leaps up and latches her hooves around you "I'm just glad you're alright." Returning the hug as you relax in her hooves, relieved of the tightness gripping your chest and heart rate returning to normal while she softly nuzzles you.

Then, pulling away and gazing into her innocent rosy eyes yours cool down and the red tint is washed away in a moment. "C'mon, let's get outta here." You stand slowly, taking the tip of Rainbows wing in your hand and leading her and Fluttershy away from the clearing. Leaving you behind to take in the aftermath.

"So," the voice that had been arguing with you earlier now returning "Pretty good dontchya think?" it now spoke in a...'dark' gravely tone that seemed to have a constant subtle growl.

"Good? In what possible fucking way is this 'good'?" you turned to face the voice and met the sight you feared moments ago, along with an unamused look on his face.

"Oh come on don't give me that whiny bullshit. You know damn well you enjoyed that...because I sure did."

"NO! I'm not-"

"Awww, you really think you'd changed don't you. Ahaha oh that is fucking priceless...c'mon we spent the first 18 years of your life together buddy. I'm the reason you didn't-"

"Wrong...Rainbow is. You know damn well that I'll never forget that no matter what so stop trying to fuck with me." you turn away from the monstrosity of your past and slowly stroll away from the clearing, intent on abandoning more than the mangled corpse decorating it.

Once you wade into the undergrowth your other side calls out to you "You can't just turn your back on me! It's not that simple Riley!" You think to shout back but instead mumble to yourself in steely determination.

"I already buried you once, I can do it again."

***

After Riley had faded out of the memory his evil began to review his plan, and smiled "You never had a choice Riley. Now...where's your 'guest'?"

CHAPTER 8

(Rainbow dashes thoughts in blue to avoid confusion ^_^)

While the familiar lick of cold returned to your nerves there were two distorted voices echoing through wherever it was you were. You could barely make it out but there was something about a 'he' and 'time'.

Suspicion would have to wait, there was a far more important thing for you right now. "Rainbow?" Once you had motor control back you did all you could. You walked. The almost irritatingly repetitive sound of your steps over what must've been concrete let on no sign of progress or purpose. "Rainbow. Rainbow!" Maybe you were sleep walking, in any case finding her wouldn't be a bad thing.

The sound and feeling of the hard stony floor under foot had now instantly changed to that of, dirt? On top of it, the chill disappears "Oh great, what now?"

"S-stay away from her!"

"What?" Was that-

"I-I said stay back!! Please I don't want to hurt but I WILL."

After a second to process what you saw, it chilled you to the bone. Twilight standing between you and a battered Rainbow Dash, horn sparking with restrained magic

"Twilight? What happened, who-..." As you took a step toward them Twilight quickly raised a shield, but that wasn't what caught your attention. Your hands were covered in blood, dripping from your knuckles. You couldn't have done this, there was nothing that could ever make you hurt Rainbow.

Whilst the tears pushed at your will power a voice forced them back.

"RILEY!"

Rainbow?

"RILEY, ANSWER ME!! WAKE UP OR I SWEAR I'LL KICK YOUR FLANK!"

Well, she IS a persistent one I'll give her that much.<

***

Everything changed in an instant. Rainbow was no longer in her home, but instead what had to have been the Canterlot throne room, but why was she- "Rainbow!? Rainbow, help!"

Before even a millisecond to process what was happening Rainbow took off for the voice, after all she'd been through one of the many things she learned was to prioritize. Although she thought it a bit odd that her whole body was nearly entirely numb {Doesn't matter, he'd be doing this for me}.

The large lifeless halls she ran through now began to darken. Only flickers for several moments but was now near pitch black. Only the slivers of moonlight through the cracked windows illuminating her way. >You won't save him.<

"Shut up." Rainbow puffed and sped up, hoping to outrun her nagging voice of fear.

Awww, it's so cute when you try to fight a hopeless battle<

Rainbow dash just gritted her teeth and kept up her search, albeit with a bit more concern.

***

"Taunting them won't work the way you think it will."

"What do you mean, they'll let their emotions blind them and give me-...US the perfect window of opportunity to-"

"You ignore his determination. Even though he doesn't know how to utilize any of his skills it does not mean he will not be a severe threat."

The two malicious entities stared one another down for a moment, then returned to the matter at hand.

"Oh and just remember who let you out next time you think about interrupting me."

***

"Rainbow, please...help."

{Hold on, I'm coming} Rainbows now frantic running had lead her to a pair of enormous, dust ridden, crystal doors. Much like what she had seen in the crystal empire only these were far more decorated along with eerie depictions of ferocious battles. But fear was only going to slow her down and she had no intention of letting that happen...not now. Riley's pleas for help were getting softer and slightly garbled, Faust knows what had happened to him and now was the worst possible time for it to happen...because of what she'd put off telling him for too long. "Rainbow? Are you here?"

She reared her hind legs, ready to put all her power into the kick but before she could to doors had begun to creak open. In the massive dead end room, Riley sat against the far wall clutching his chest with struggling breaths. "RILEY!!" Rainbow practically screamed, galloping to his side. "Riley are you okay!? What happened!? Who did this!!?"

"Rainbow..." Riley whispered, gently bringing his hand to Rainbow's cheek "...I'm sorry, but we both knew this was coming. This was the deal."

"Deal? What deal?" Rainbows tears were postponed by the sheer confusion over her lovers words.

"My life for yours...I just thought it would stop THEM too, but n-nothing can."

Rainbow felt something warm flow around her forehooves, but she didn't need to look. "Riley, please...just hold on and we can get help-"

"It won't matter Rainbow, they'd just come for me again...there's nothing left." Riley's skin began to cool and his breaths grew shallow.

"What do mean NOTHING!!? You took an oath, you have friends...you have a family. Please I-I can't lose you...y-you promised me you'd-..." Rainbow lost all control and collapsed into Riley's arms, crying hysterically.

"Ah, it's about time he realized how stupid he was. He couldn't stop me, Faust couldn't stop me...not even your precious little trinkets could. It's over, bow before me and you will be spared. But no matter what I WILL reclaim my throne." The booming demonic voice was enough to get Rainbows attention but still did not drag her away from desperately trying to keep Riley from deaths grip.

But it wasn't enough, she couldn't feel his staggered breaths anymore and through her teary eyes saw that his were closed the pool of blood no longer growing...but instead was flowing.

Now that Rainbow turned around she could see the large relatively slender stallion behind her, from the looks of it he was a unicorn. But his horn was cracked, serrated and was dripping with something she didn't want to think about. She had also figured out what was moving Riley's blood, he was absorbing it somehow and a deep crimson shroud grew around him with each passing second.

Rainbow was frozen in fear, the only pony she'd ever seen with power anything like this was Riley. As she weighed her options Rainbow threw all rationality out the window and charged the mysterious figure. Hell bent on exacting her revenge, or die trying.

***

Somehow you had found your way home, or at least a dream of home. In the stormy evening the normally beautiful clouds gave off an eerie atmosphere. For the moment all you could do was stand outside and stare at it, until the echoing scream in your head returned "YOU DID THIS!!"

You cringe at the volume and decide against your better judgment to enter your seemingly abandoned abode. "Sure would be nice if I had those weapons right now..." you reach the door and feel an incredibly sharp pain hit your chest "...or maybe some painkillers. Fuck." Surely all this pain wasn't necessary, not to say it wouldn't be worth it but if Tia's plan didn't work you were gonna be pissed.

Whilst the front door creaked it's way open you cautiously peered inside. Cobwebs, and dust covered almost every square inch of the room. The only break in it was the hoofsteps leading to the stairs. {Okay}

[Bad move man]

{Shut up I'm busy}

Throwing all caution to the wind you move towards the staircase as sobbing reaches your ears. Sobbing and tearing fabric. "Okay, on second thought caution doesn't sound so stupid anymore."

Slowly but surely taking the stairs step by step you've almost reached the top when you recognize the sobbing. "Rainbow?" no response. You rush to the door "Rainbow what's wr-"

She sat, hunched over at the end of your bed splattered with blood. Her wings seemed broken in several places she had open cuts almost all over her. She didn't move, you couldn't even see her breathing...but she still managed to whisper to you. "Why did you do this?"

As hard as you tried no words came out. Seeing her like this was so surreal, there was no way this was real but you still believed it. "I-I d-..." Every part of you was screaming to reach out and hold her close, to try and fix this.

"I trusted you and you still did this. I stood by you for so long." she leaned forward and dropped down onto her hooves. "After everything I saved you from." She looked up, directly into your eyes. And it was easily the most terrifying thing you'd seen in your life. Those once magnificent, rosy gems that you could lose yourself in now jet black pits of horror and despair. "YOU TOLD ME YOU LOVED ME!!" While the ear piercing screech stunned you Rainbow tackled you with unprecedented strength, knocking the wind and any hope you had out of you.

"Rainbow stop! You're not thinking straight! If we can just-" She ceased your pleading with a painful punch to the ribs. But you didn't want to let a few loud cracks stop you. "This isn't you-" Rainbows damage becomes apparent as you enter a coughing fit, spitting blood every few seconds.

"You're pathetic. I don't need you, I never needed you. YOU'RE THE REASON THIS HAPPENED!!" Before you could return the air to your lungs and beg her to stop, she had raised her hoof and already brought it back down.

***

"Huh?" Finally able to open your eyes, you frantically look around for Rainbow...who is still curled up on the bed sound asleep. You appear to have not moved either. The entire ordeal seemed like hours, but you were still damp from the shower you had minutes before hand. {Fuck this, I'll worry in the morning} You slowly lift the covers and crawl in beside your lovely mare.

Risking waking her up you snake your arms around her and pull her close. And just your luck, she stirs and looks back at you with her adorable sleepy eyes. You nuzzle her neck and try to lull her to sleep "Sorry, just couldn't help it."

She smiles and lays her head back down, holding your hand while she gets herself comfortable "Don't worry babe." {Thank Faust that was a dream}

{What the fuck was all that about?} There's no need to worry Rainbow more than she already is, but discussing it with Celestia might help.

Drifting off once again, you plan for the busy day tomorrow, thankfully there shouldn't be much bustle in Canterlot. {Get train, get answers, come back, say hi to girls, pick up Scoots...} your mental checklist is interrupted  as you are suddenly made aware of an approaching storm {...pick up Scootaloo from Rarity's, relearn magic} Being a parent seemed a lot harder back on Earth.

-outro-