Chapters Of Gods And Men
Journal Entry 1 January 15, 2050
I don't know if any one will ever read this, but if you do I want you to know what happened to our home. My name is Nikolai but my friends called me Niko, I'm 18 years old, a martial artist, and builder. The reason I write this is because I'm not sure if am going to die in the next few days and I want someone to know what my last few days were like. I don't know how it all started, only where it all lead. Right now I look out my broken window, the streets and buildings are demolished beyond repair, bodies litter the streets I once walked on and greeted friends on, and worst of all some of the corpses still moved along those sidewalks. Those who died rose again, and those they killed got back up and killed. They were called walkers by most others used the more common term zombie or zed.
I wish I could tell you how they came to be but sadly I do not know. There are 5 things I do know for sure one is that in 10 days time I will be overrun by these things and become on of them, two I only have a car door shield and bumper sword to fight them off with when judgment day comes, three I have little food or water left in storage, four everyone I know and have seen since the outbreak is dead, finally I hope to god that whoever you are that the infection has been stopped so you don't have to feel my pain.
End of entry
Journal Entry 2 January 17, 2050
It seems that I was wrong about my time, the barricades around my shelter are barely keeping the walkers back right now. God I can hear them smashing away at the wood, I can barely hold my pencil my hands shake so badly. I have moved everything on the bottom floor of the house onto the only stair case keeping me safe but trapped. I had manged one last supply run and in this room I have a few crates of food but less water. I don't have much to say, but I can see something in the sky, for the past few weeks it has been rainy and the clouds have never moved and lighting is visible at all times. It seems impossible that only a few months ago at this time of day I would be in the city park entertaining people by fire dancing or singing, but those days are but memories now never to return.
I hope I can at least see one more good sunsets before I die.
End of entry
Journal Entry 3 January 20, 2050
The pain, it hurts so badly. It seems this will be my final entry, right no I am on top of my roof the walkers have broken past my barricades. They broke into my room , one of them bit my chest I have very little time left. So please I ask anyone who reads this, if you find other survivors, friends, or family you keep them close and never let these creatures take them from you. Goodbye everyone, mother, father, brother, and goodbye sister I'm so sorry I was too afraid.
Well it seems my wish was granted the sun is setting just over the horizon, it casts its orange glow over the trees and buildings giving me a feeling of comfort, just like before.
– – – – – – – – – – –
“AJ...injured... send letter...to do with it.” I heard parts of someone talking, I was overcome with joy I had been saved by these people. I heard the sound of hooves trotting on dirt. They must have used horses to carry me here. I thought, I felt a hoof nudge my torso a few times. “Twi, what in the hay re we suppose ta do with this thingtill the princess get here?” I heard a feminine voice call, wait did they call me a thing and who is this princess. “I don't know AJ maybe we should tie it up encase its dangerous.” I heard the one who I had assumed was Twi what a strange name. “Alrighty, get mah rope.” The next few moments I felt AJ who by now I guessed was something not human tied me up. I tried to move or give a sign I was awake, but all I could do give a very soft groan.
“AJ go get Fluttershy she may know how to heal it's wounds properly.” Twi said, AJ ran off looking for this Fluttershy person. No person is the wrong word. After a while I slowly got control of my body again, I cracked my eyes open but not enough to give myself away.
That's not possible.
My reaction to seeing this creature was purely justified, for in front of me was a small purple unicorn. I appeared to be in a sort of barn, like those you would find in the country. My bumper sword and car door shield lie next to the barn door. The unicorn was busy writing something down, it's horn was glowing a red/purple color and so was a quill and piece of paper. I felt the bindings around my arms and feet, best unknown to them I had hidden blades tucked in my shirt sleeves at all times. With haste I began to quietly saw at the ropes.
Got it! I dumped the ropes on the ground, the unicorn still hadn't noticed me.
The binds on my feet were lose so I just pulled the ends and they fell away. I got to my feet, my vision blurred a bit but soon focused. I crept along the floor not making a sound hoping I wouldn't step on a twig or tool, weeks of zombie hunting making me extremely light on my feet had really paid off. As I got close to her I could her the scratching of quill on parchment. Too easy. I though, before the unicorn could react I had her in a head lock my hand over her mouth and horn. She began to struggle but I was much stronger, and quickly tightened my grip forcing her to stop.
“Alright listen close little unicorn, I'm going to ask you a few questions.” I said, she nodded her yes full of fear and shock. “Now when I take my hand off you mouth you will not scream.” I told her, again she nodded. “Now where am I?” I took my hand from her mouth. “APPLEJACK HELP!” She screamed, I quickly punched the back of her neck knocking her out cold. “Damn horse!” I cursed, quickly grabbing my weapons I burst through the door. I will forever regret that decision. I came face to face with small army, unicorns, pegasus, and normal ponies alike were in front of me all bearing gold armor and weapons of various types.
In a matter of second we were at a stand off my shield and sword at the ready, they all aimed their weapons at me. All was still no sound but the wind, then just one simple word started the brawl.
“Fuck.”
Arrows pelted my shield while swords banged away, I swung my sword knocking away soldiers and weapons alike. A blast of energy exploded next to me, the unicorns began firing spells or just fire. My shield wasn't built to handle this kind of strain, I charged forward using my shield as a ram knocking ponies left and right. I saw my shield become enveloped in a green light, it was ripped from my hands an throw out of the battle zone. I quickly spotted the unicorn casting the spell, before he could cast another spell I tackled him to the ground and punched his throat with all I had. This single act of brute force stopped all the other soldiers. They all looked at their ally choking for breath barely clinging to life. So they can't stand blood eh. I thought, I faced them a wicked grin spread across my face I must have looked like a real killer judging from their reactions.
I began to laugh like a madman, sprinted forward and began beating down anything that got within swinging range. On pony tried to buck kick me, but I grabbed his leg and with an evil idea in my head began to use him as a weapon adrenalin making him seem weightless. The fight raged on the pony in my hands was long since out cold and hopefully still alive. I threw him into a small unicorn firing squad stopping their barrage. I looked around five soldiers stood standing only one was a pegasus the rest earth ponies. I dropped my sword, it was beginning to break anyways. The pegasus was the first to attack, he flew at me sword held in his mouth. I jumped to the left avoiding the hit, pouncing on him I grabbed a fist full of his mane and slammed his face into the dirt. (4 left) The four other ponies charged at one all four holding swords in their mouths.
As the first one reached me he swung for my legs, I deflected the swing and kicked him in the jaw. Another came from behind and slashed my back, letting out a scream of pain I spun around and tackled him. I punched his face rapidly blood coating my fists, another bucked me off sending me flying into the barn wall. I tried to get up but was forced down by a hoof, I looked up to see the three remaining ponies glaring at me. The one holding me down raised his blade, big mistake, I unsheathed my hidden blades and held it to his neck. “Got ya!” I said and with my other fist punched him off me, I rolled to my feet. (2 left) The other two took to both my sides, if one got hit the other would hit me, another stand off.
Zzzzzzaapp-crack
I felt my body go stiff, I couldn't feel anything and couldn't move. It felt as if I had tazered myself, I felt light then fell to the ground immobile. “The f-fuck.” I manged to croak out, I felt a presence walk behind me. “Well, a human I have not seen your kind for a very long time.” I forced my head up, towering over me was an alicorn she had a long flowing ethereal mane of different shades of purple and white, her coat was the purest white, she wore a golden breast plate and crown. Just being in her presence made me feel so small, like I could feel like the evil son of a bitch I truly was. Her horn began to glow a brilliant gold, I felt another jolt then darkness.
January 22, 2050
“Ugh, my head.” I groaned, note to self don't black out again. As soon as I got my head straight I looked around, once more my location changed I was inside a cold dark stone prison cell. My shield and sword no where to be found even my hidden blades had been taken. Even my shirt was gone lucky they left my pants and underwear. I walked over to the bars of my cell, through them I could see my stuff. A few guards were talking nearby, they were facing away and I couldn't here the conversation. I turned my attention to the bars once more. I began to measure them space and height between the bars. They were just wide enough so I might squeeze through, guess they didn't plan on capturing a human.
I looked to the guards, they were still talking, I gave a light whistle. In a flash they were next to my sell spears drawn, I held my hands up showing I meant no harm. “Well, you're finally awake ape.” Said one guard, he was a unicorn the other an earth pony. “Yeah I'm awake, and a bit hungry whens lunch.” I said with grin, showing them my canine teeth. The unicorn glared at me, he reached through the bars and pulled me to his face. “Listen here you beast, the princess told us to report to her as soon as you woke, from her tone she wasn't happy. So consider yourself lucky, if you get anything other than a beating.” He said, as he let me go I snatched him by his neck thumb on his windpipe. His friend had his spear next to my face, I grabbed it and slammed him into the bars. Put my arm around his neck, I tightened my grip on hi, he gasped for breath but I held him until he went limp. After I released him I pulled the unicorn into my grip.
“Alright pokey listen up, you have 1 minute to tell me where I am, what's going on, and to give me the keys.” I looked into his eyes, he looked back. “Well!” I said raising my voice, he flinched. “Y-your inside the Canterlot Castle, the dungeons to be exact. You're being held here and we were suppose to take you to Princess Celestia for you hearing.” He said, (20 seconds remaining) I though about it for a moment then looked back. “And the keys.” His horn lit up and a pair of keys floated next to my head. I took them and put them on the floor next to my foot. “Well you've been helpful, tell me do you have a family?” I asked, he quickly nodded. “Ah, alright.” I punched the base of his neck knocking him out.
I opened the cell door and peeked around the corner, there were no guards but plenty of the other prisoners were looking at me. I threw the two unconscious guards into the cell and locked it back. As I stepped out I looked around the rest of the prison, the inmates were at their cell doors looking at me in disbelief. Ignoring their looks I gathered my things and began walking to the only none cell door.
“Psst.”
I looked toward the direction the noise, there was a large pegasus pony in the cell his wings bound. I walked over to him kneeling down in front of him. “Yeah?” I asked, he looked me over and grinned. “How about you let us guys outta here, we could help you escape?” He said, I heard agreements form all the other inmates. I let a wicked grin spread across my face as I fiddled with the key ring I got from the guard. “So what you for?” I asked him testing the keys. He smiled happily knowing his freedom was assured. “Eh back in a town called Ponyville I got caught after I killed a couple `a ponies and raped their daughter, ha! You should have seen the looks on their faces when thy saw me over their kid.” I laughed, he laughed, and soon the other inmates were too. “Yeah that's pretty good, I'm in hear for killing some prick.” I said, he let out more boisterous laughter. “Who was the unlucky stallion?” He asked calming down.
“You.” Splat!
All the laughing stopped dead, every eye was on me. My bumper sword was stuck between the two parts of the stallions face blood dripping down the blade. “May god have mercy on you blackened soul.” I said, as I tried to pull the blade out the bindings finally broke and the handle came off leaving the large chunk of iron in the corpse. I threw the handle away, I turned around facing all the other inmates. All of them were still shock, fear, and disgust were the only features present on their faces. “Alright you four legged fucks, listen good. If any of you don't get executed for your crimes, then repent from your evil ways or one day you will look back and I will be there, and on that day you will know the fear of worse than hell.” I adjusted the shield on my back and left the prison.
The scene off the prison and the main castle were very different, the halls of the castle were marble and stone, curtains of woven silk hung on every window, gold trimmed almost every border of the random tables. I moved close to the wall hugging corners and avoiding guards. Soon I came to a very large pair of double doors. As I did I heard voices come from all three of the diverging halls, I panicked looking for another exit but the door was the only option. I kicked the doors open then immediately closed them, with my back against the door and shield guarding my front I looked at those present.
Along a long table that stretched half the rooms length was a gathering of ponies. I could see unicorns, pegasus, and earth ponies alike, but those who caught my eye were three alicorns. First was a light pink alicorn, she had a pink and yellow mane, she had a mark on her flank it looked like a modified Irish Claddagh, she had a shocked and fearful look on her face. The second was a dark blue color, her mane resembled the night sky as a crescent moon adorned her flank, she looked amused and a little excited. Finally was my nemesis the white one, I noticed she had a sun on her flank her she wore a smile.
“Ah, it seems that our guest has awoken.” She said. “Please sit.” Using her magic she moved a chair and motion for me to sit, cautiously I walked to the chair and sat. I place my shield down on its stand, my hidden blades ready to strike. “Now then, I would firstly like to apologize for our mistake.” She said, she sounded sincere so I decided to listen but being me I couldn't help but add my own charm to the conversation. “An which mistake would that be sunshine, the one of locking me up, knocking me out, or just straight up being a dumb ass for picking a fight with me?” I said leaning back and placing my feet on the table.
“Why you uncouth little ape, how dare you speak to her like that!” I looked to the left end of the table and saw a rather pretentious looking unicorn, he was enraged, it was pretty funny. He began to rant again but before he could get another word out a blade flew past his head cutting off a piece of his mane. All eyes were on my hand, using one of my ejecting blades is a good way to get someone quite. He fell back into his seat his mouth opening and closing. I snickered to myself, earning a glare from Sunny. “I would appreciate it if you did not assault my nephew Mr...” She said trailing off. “Niko.” I said, she nodded. “Mr. Niko, I understand you are angry at us but please we all are here to try and reach peace.”
She stopped as if waiting for my response. “Well Ms. you see in my world when you ask ones' name it is polite to give your own.” I said, the blue one gave a quite giggle while sunny seemed to give a light blush. “Apologies, my name is Princess Celestia of Equestria, this” She motioned a hoof to the giggling blue alicorn. “is my sister Princess Luna. On my left is my niece Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.” She said, the pink alicorn gave a lighthearted smile. “Cadence is fine.” She said, I decided I liked her she didn't seem like she had a stick up her flank unlike most the other ponies in the room. “Well,” I began. “Tia I guess if you over look the whole taking me prisoner and fighting, peace is a good option.
I could tell I struck a nerve because she looked ashamed. “Yes, I had not ordered my guards to attack you. This being an issue I have brought in the captain of the royal guard Shining Armor. At hearing his name and his position I doubled over laughing. I finally let all of what I had heard catch up and only then I realized all the horrible pony puns. After a few moments I stopped laughing, all present looking at me like I was mad. I heard one pony clear his throat and stand up. He wore steel armor and a different helm fro all the other guards I had seen. I apologized and let him start. “My name as the princess said is Shining Armor, I am hear on behalf of my guards to ask your forgiveness of our mistake.” He said, I considered it and decided it was for the best.
“Well I'll forgive you one two small terms first why are you apologizing like it's you personally who attacked me?” I asked, he looked into my eyes with pride. “As captain of the guard it is I who shall take responsibility for our actions.” He said, I normally hate the whole live as a team die as a team but he seemed to pull it off okay. “Very well, second if you truly wish for my forgiveness pass this message down to those who were involved.” I walked over to him, I was about to speak but instead I raised my foot and dropkick his head into the marble floor. “Don't ever mess with me.” I laced every word with as much hate, anger, and venom as I had within me. Casually I walked back and took my seat. Cadence looked horrified and helped Armor up, Celestia looked own her mood downcast, and Luna was half way ready to impale me with her horn.
“I see earning you trust is going to take some time.” Celestia said, her voice sounded ashamed and miserable, worst of all was I knew she wasn't faking it. I took a breath and actually thought about what I was doing for once, this magnificent and powerful creature was upset because I couldn't forgive. I could feel the energy she gave off, it was sad and hurt. I realized that I wasn't angry towards them, I guess I was just mad because of what had happened before all this. Then it all sort came rushing back, me running from the masses of walkers, my sisters screams for help, me thinking about only myself and running, finally was when I had finally lost my mind.
I stood from my seat, ignoring all the looks I was getting I walked to the throne. I walked up to Celestia and she looked at me. I was right in front of her an alicorn a being of god like power was almost crying in front of me, I knew there was only on thing I could do to fix it even it would probably come back to bite me in the ass. I reached out and pulled her into a hug, that was were she finally broke down and buried her head in my chest. Everypony looked at us in utter confusion, even I don't know why she would be crying. “Get out.” I said, it was not a request. Everypony began to quickly file from the room, all but me and Celestia.
I felt her crying on my shoulder for a few minutes before she finally calmed down. “I'm so sorry.” She said her head still on my shoulder, I felt small considering she could barely lay her head against me without making me fall. “Why are you sorry, I'm the one who acted without thinking again.” I said the last part a little quieter so she couldn't hear. “As you know I am an alicorn, I hold god like powers. This is a blessing and a curse for I can hear what a pony or human is directly thinking. When I heard your memories I just...” She began to cry again, I knew my recent past was horrible but I guess losing family is enough to make anyone cry. “I guess I should explain my past to the others so they aren't confused?” I said, Celestia picked her head up and nodded.
One mass pony herd into the hall later.
Everypony sat around the table, I stood before the throne thinking of a way to start. “Okay, I'm sure all of you have questions but allow me to finish my story first.” I noticed that among the crowd that the purple pony from earlier was present and taking notes. “First I wanted to say sorry for my behavior, I will admit I'm in a dark place right now. Everything you need to know began about a month ago back in my world...”
December 26, 2049 Location: not given Time: 8:30 AM
I sat next to the fireplace while I opened my Christmas presents, it was a snowy and cold day but no one seemed to mind. My little sister, Nina was 10 years old she had short blond hair, we both had our mothers blue eyes and tan skin. She was so happy she had gotten what little we could afford, I was always happy when she smiled because it reminded me I always had one person who cared for me. Anyways after everyone had opened their gifts my mother began to cook her special Xmas Breakfast, while me dad and my brother watched TV, I don't know where my sister went at that time. All was peaceful and well, but as you can guess I didn't stay that way. No one could have guess what had happened, as me and dad were laughing at a joke a scream of fear rang out through the house. Me, dad, and my brother were out of our chairs and sprinting out to the backyard. I saw man pinning my sister down, she was screaming and trying to push him off.
Me an dad tackled the guy off while my brother checked on Nina. Dad punched the guy in his face blood covered the grass, I looked at him stunned. “Son, call the police.” He said, his voice firm and full of determination. I was about to turn when I saw a sight that to this day haunts me, the man jumped on his back. I froze in shock, the man bit into dad's neck and with on bite ripped his throat out. Face twisted in pain and shock, dad fell to the ground. Brother grabbed me and Nina and dragged us into the house locking the door and placing a chair on it. Mother was already on the phone, I brought my sister into the living room, we sat on the couch as she cried. When she finally calmed down she got up and walked to the front window. “Brother.” She said, her voice void of emotion. I walked over and moved the curtain.
“No.”
I looked outside to see my world fall apart, people were running into the nearest building and cars were speeding down the road ramming others out of their way. I backed away from the window, quickly I ran back into the kitchen. “Mom, we have to leave we can go to the old cabin up in the hills. We can be safe there.” Brother said, he and mom were talking about a plan on how to get to safety. I could hear what I later would call walkers banging on the door. I grabbed a butcher knife and ran to the front door, my sister was holding it closed. I motioned her back and she complied, as soon as she moved one smashed the top half of the door away.
I began hacking and chopping, I dodged any swipes they threw. My brother moved my mother and sister up the stairs, I threw the knife into one of the walkers and dashed up the stairs. We ran into a room and shut the door. My brother began to barricade it, but we were to slow and soon we were swarmed. I saw my sister cornered by a group of the dead, she cried out for help. I didn't know how to help them, so I did the only thing I could and jumped out of the rooms window. I landed in the bushes outside our house, and without a second though I ran off not even looking back. I could hear my families screams even half way down the road.
End of Flashback
I looked around the table, everypony either looked shocked, sad, or appeared to be thinking about their own lives. I sat down on the stairs that lead to the throne. “I wonder if I had stayed would have changed the general outcome be the same or different.” I looked down at my feet. I'm a coward, I could have saved them if I had stayed. I felt Celestia wrap her wing around me pulling me into a hug. “You are not a coward, you were just panicking in a situation no pony should go through.” She whispered. “Than I am weak for panicking.” I said, I felt my hands clench. Celestia sighed giving up and took her seat.
“Well then I guess the main question now is what are you going to do next?” I thought about it for a moment, there's no way in heaven or hell I'm every going back, so staying here is my only option but where here? Of course the universe provides as Twi raises her her. “Um, I have an idea princess.” She says, Celestia grins as if knowing what she is going to says, she probably does. “Yes Twilight Sparkle.” Huh, so that was her full name. “Well maybe he could stay with me in Ponyville if he wishes to stay?” She said, well it was a good idea and I could do something for her as a way of making up for knocking her out. “Well is this acceptable Niko?” Celestia asked me, it's not like I had any other options. “Yeah, that will be perfect.” I said, and like that my life in Equestria had begun, i guess things really can turn for the better.
Author's Note
Hello everyone, I would like to welcome you to my first story ever. I know it's not perfect and I am going to have to work on my writing skills. Also if anyone has an idea for a story arc, location, or someone (Like and OC) that I should add to my story let me know and I will see if I want to add it and how I could.
N1k0 out, peace.
Chapter 2 : Two Sides Of The Same Coin
Of Gods And Men
Canterlot Airship Station
Being human I had seen things like planes, jets, helicopters, and other aviation wonders, but the airships ponies used were stunning. The hull was made from wood most likely Oak, the deck had one large cabin area that led into the belly of the ship, the top looked like a zeppelin attached to a house, but what impressed me the most were the engines, four solid gold engine holding a sort of blue energy acted as turbines and i could feel a warm energy coming of of them. had it not been for the shield on my back I would have fallen over.
"Impressive Isn't it?" Twilight asked.
I had forgotten she was by my side. "Yes, even with the things I have seen this is a really something." I said, as we got aboard the ship it felt like i was simply on a large fishing boat not a magic powered airship. The flight crew was standing before us the stallion I amused to be the captain was talking to Princess Celestia, as we walked closer the two went silent. The captain walked towards me and looked me over. "Well, I've done my share of flight jobs and seen many things but you,re right princess this is a new one on me." His accent reminded me of a man I meet when I was at the east coast fishing docks, he put his hoof forward. "Name's Captain Jet Stream of The Aurora and it's crew." It took his hoof and shook it, deciding to have a bit if fun I said. "My name is Niko I'm a Hunter." He looked me over again.
He looked back to Celestia. "Well princess, I think ya got landed with a find new guard stallion." Celestia walked over to me. "Niko, the captain has agreed to take you to Ponyville. When you arrive a few of my guards stationed there will escort you to the town hall, then an official introduction to the public will be given." As she turned to leave, she looked back one more time. "I almost forgot, when Twilight and her friends found you in the forest this was laying next to you." She levitated a small silver coin over to me.
I took it from her grasp and look at the markings that covered it. On one side there was what looked like knot work, they were Celtic, the other side was the same but the markings appeared to have sharper more jagged angles, why the hell was it near me is the only question I wanted to know. "No, it's not mine but its defiantly from my world." I put the silver piece in my pocket, and with that Celestia left.
"Well then, Ms Sparkle and Mr Niko allow me to show you to your quarters." Jet said.
Me and Twilight followed him into the lower decks of The Aurora, the ship itself had a welcoming and interesting feel to it. the wooden floors covered by the soft rug, and the sound of wind blowing outside it was very peaceful. The captain stopped in front of a single room, he took out a ring of keys and opened the door. "This is you room, the journey will take about 10 hours max unless any unforeseen weather is encountered. A crew hand will be here to alert you when dinner is ready and when we have arrived at our destination. you may wander the ship if you like but please do not interfere with and of the workers. If you have any questions later on I will be in my chambers. For now I must see to other things, farewell." With a small wave me and Twilight began to settle in for the ride.
4 Hours later Aurora deck
The ship itself was fairly large, it had dinning room, a room for each of the crew members and captain, a engine room were a few unicorns were working on the engines and other mechanical equipment. Surprisingly there was also a proper bathroom. At the end of my wandering I found my self on the bow of the ship. I leaned over the railing and was studying the coin Celestia gave me. The markings were Celtic Knot Work, they were beautifully crafted and I could not see a single flaw in the metal work. I had many questions, did this coin have something to do with me being here, why Celtic of all things, why did I have it, did the markings had a significant meaning, and many more. The coin looked brand new as if it was just made and polished. Putting the coin away I looked at the scenery around me.
Tall mountains surrounded Canterlot, the city a beacon of power in the mist the shrouded most of the areas around it. bellow us was currently a large plane of grass, a few trees, and not much else. To the east was a large and dense forest, I could feel a shiver go up my spine as I looked at it. I could not see much to the west but I could barely make out what appeared to a city made from clouds. No, my minds just messing with me. I thought shaking my head. The over all landscape was stunning it was far from anything on earth. I heard the sound of hooves behind me, turning around I saw Twilight carrying two apples. "Here I thought you might be hungry." I took one of the apples. "Thanks." I turned back to the view Twilight joining me.
"If you look closely you can see Ponyville in the distance." She pointed a hoof to a small shape in the distance. Focusing i could almost make out the shape of a town only able to see a few tall buildings. "I can't wait for you to meet my friends, I think you would like them." She said, taking a bit from her apple. "After living in hell for a short time, talking to someone who doesn't want to kill me, is a nice change." I said, she flinched remembering my story. We spent the next half hour talking about small things we did in our free time, I talked about what I did before the dead came. I had a few jobs back on earth mainly I help with repairing machinery or operating it, I had many friends even some in other countries. My life was pretty good, I had planned to get a job as a specialty engineer. Twilight told me about her time in Ponyville and all the outlandish adventures she and her friends been through. To think a small purple unicorn with a star on it's flank had saved the world on numerous occasions was something I had never .
"Twilight, the princess said you found me with this." I showed her the Celtic coin.
"Yes we did, we thought it may have belonged to you." She said, taking it into her magical grasp.
"Well, I've never seen that coin, but I think I know about where it came from." I said.
I took the coin, looking once more at the markings. I had seen many Celtic designs in books and pictures, but they all had smooth curves and points, like the first side. The other side had a similar design, but the edges and points were more jagged and coarse. "Well, where do you think i came from." Twilight asked. "Well the designs you see are a Celtic, an eastern culture in my world. I don't know what these if the markings specifically mean something, they could be nothing, but something tells me that's not true." I twirled the coin in my fingers. "Hey you two!" Me and Twilight looked back to see one of the crew hands walking towards us. "Dinner is being served bellow decks." He said, he wore a lose tan shirt his coat a light brown his mane darker, i couldn't see his cutie mark but I guessed it had to do with sailing. We followed him below decks, the halls were empty most of the crew being at dinner. as we entered the small room we saw the rest of the crew talking, singing, and laughing.
The atmosphere was welcome, we sat at a table in the corner of the ship. "Twi, when we get to Ponyville you mentioned you had friends, what do you think they will think of me?" She had already told me her friends personalities and various jobs, but not their thoughts towards aliens. "Well I know Pinkie Pie will be glad to have a new friend, Fluttershy will either find you fascinating or run away, Rainbow Dash would probably get along with you, but i don't know how Rarity or Applejack will take you." She said, a young mare brought a two bowls of salad and left. "You say Rainbow Dash and me will get along, so I take it she is energetic, tough, and will be cautious of me at first." I said with a grin, Twilight laughed. "Yes she will be cautious but you would be to right." We began to eat, the food here tasted so much cleaner compared to the genetically modified stuff back home... Home
--Later 1 hour until arrival--
I lay in bed my mind taking time to think about what was happening. First off I was on my roof injured from the walker, I looked at the wound it was no more than a scar. Second I'm rescued by Twilight and her friends and end up fighting them, who I have to thank and apologize to when I meet them. Third I'm brought to Canterlot and meet three godlike princesses, still having trouble believing that. Finally, I am given residence with Twilight and pick up from there, what could ever go wrong now. I got up and walked over to the cabin window. I could see Ponyville, it was a fairly sized town, a story high stone wall surrounded it one gate visible from this side. I could vaguely make out the forms of guard ponies standing near towers. `I though this place was suppose to be a quite little country town. I looked over at Twilight, she was snoring softly as she slept. I lay back down on my bed and found my self twirling the coin again, it had become a habit pretty quickly.
I closed my eyes and began to slowly drift off to sleep.
--...---
"Heads of State who ride and wrangle,
I happily sung as I walked through city park. It was a call Saturday afternoon, Nina was talking with her friends a little ways ahead. I continued singing, enjoying a calm sun on my face. Many people passed by on Fly Boards, a common thing among teenagers. I saw Mr. G sitting on his usual bench feeding birds, Mrs. Foster selling her handcrafted jewelry, and even Luna sitting near the pond waving to me. Wait Luna? I rubbed my eyes, sure enough Princess Luna was sitting under a tree waving me over. I took my side next to her beneath the tree. "Good afternoon Niko." She said, using her magic she handed me a glass of lemonade. I took the glass, looking around I saw Nina playing with her friends and no one else even seemed to notice Luna. I simply stared at her, she looked at me with a warm smile. "What is it, is there something in my mane." She stroked her mane trying to free the nonexistent object. "No...it's just...what are you doing here?" I asked taking a sip of the drink.
"Well as you know I rule the night, as a result I am able to enter your dreams as well as those of my subjects." She said so nonchalantly as if it were common knowledge. "Right, a dream." I said blankly. "Yes, a dream do you not believe me.?" She said, giving a fake pout. "Well, a little bit. It all seems to real." I said, the sun shined above, the birds flew above us as they always did. "Many dreams do seem real until you awake." She said, a small black raven flew down and landed next to her. "Right, well say this is a dream why are you hear and what do you need of me?" I asked, i looked around seeing everything like it had always been. "Well, I came here to ask you about the coin my sister had given you." She said, I took the coin from my pocket. "Yeah what about it?" I twirled it in my fingers again. "Well I studied that coin before Tia gave it you, I had seen those markings somewhere before but could not remember where. So after a bit of searching in the Royal Archives I came across an old tome. as it turns out they are from..." As she was about to tell me, but I felt a tug on my arm and fell back into darkness.
--Airship Cabin destination reached--
"Niko wake up!"
I shot up out of bed knocking Twilight over in the process. I looked around, I was once again in the Aurora. I looked down to see Twilight on her back, a clear few of many things given as a result, glaring at me she said. "If, you tell anyone i will destroy you." I looked away quickly and helped her up. "Come on, we're just arriving." she said. I quickly got out of bed and hurried after her. As we reached the deck I saw the Cpt talking to a middle aged mare. The two looked at us, the captain smiled and the mare simply gave me a once over look. "This here is the stallion i was talkin' about." The mare walked closer and reached her hoof out. "Mayor Mare, sir I am told you will be a resident here for a while." She said, in a polite tone. "Yes Ms. Mare, my name is Nikolai or Niko for short." I shook her hoof. "Well then, if you are to be staying here for a while I should run a few things by you. I'm sure you do not need to be told that volatile behavior is not smiled upon, second because of recent raids the city has a midnight curfew that lasts until 5 AM, second certain areas such as the guard pony stations are off limits to civilians if you are to leave of enter the town you must be scanned to insure you are you." As she said this she looked as if she remembered something and beckoned a unicorn guard over.
"Now just hold still for the scan." She nodded and the guards horn lit up. I felt the spark of magic crackle over me and then it was over. The process was repeated for the Captain and Twilight.
We said goodbye to the mayor and captain and Twilight lead me to her house/library. As we got closer I looked at the many windows and the balcony. "Ah, home sweet home." Twilight said, she stopped in front of the door and turned to me. "Now I sent a letter ahead telling all my friends to meet me hear so be ready." She said, I nodded and got ready to bring my zombie shield out. As she opened the door I saw five other ponies talking. As soon as we walked in all talking stopped, and all eyes were on me. Well this is gonna be good. Twilight tugged on my shirt and pointed to a small couch. "I'l be right back I have to wake up Spike." She trotted up stairs.
I looked back to the staring ponies, they were as quite and still as statues. I walked over to a small couch, placing my shield I sat down and put my feet up. Thus began the longest staring contest in Equestria, I noticed that a very pink pony a.k.a Pinkie Pie was looking rather hatefully at me. I find this strange because Twilight described Pinkie as a happy caring figure head. Another ivory pony, Rarity, was looking me over most likely at my choice of cloths. Camouflage pants, black long sleeve shirt, and steel toed boots. My black hair was hanging messily around my shoulders. A few minutes later Twilight came back down the stairs, a small purple and green dragon, Spike, flowing her. Spike looked at me with a skeptical look. "I thought he'd be taller, from what your letter said." He obviously had no fear or just didn't give half a fuck.
I gave a light chuckle. "Well I could say the same for you, from what Twilight said." Twilight gave me a glare before turning to the other five ponies. "Everypony I would like you to meet my new roommate Niko." She said happily, the first to step up was a tan colored earth pony. "Well howdy Niko, ahm' Applejack, Element of Honesty and I run Sweet Apple Acres, feel free to drop by any time." She said, holding out a hoof I shook it, next. "Welcome darling, I am Rarity Element of Generosity. I run the Carousel Boutique, please be sure you stop by so I can make you some more...um suiting cloths." She stepped back, I gave myself a quick look over. My pants had a few tears from walker scratches and so did my shirt and jacket. Rainbow Dash stepped up next. "The names Rainbow Dash, fastest flyer in Equestria and bearer of the Element of Loyalty." I could tell Twilight had been mistaken in her statement of me and her getting along, I generally am a silent person around most people/ponies unless I know them.
Next was Pinkie Pie, instead of an explosive welcome she nearly put a hoof up. "Pinkie Pie, Element of Laughter." I shook her hoof and she stepped back. Twilight gave Pinkie a confused look before motioning for another pony. This pony was flutter shy, she had her face hidden behind her mane. "This is Fluttershy, she is the Element of Kindness." I got up from the couch and knelt before the two. Fluttershy tried to hide more of her face. I brushed her hair away and looked into her eyes. "Fluttershy whether you believe me or not is your choice, but I mean you no harm nor does anypony hear." I took my place back on the couch, the rest of the ponies simply stared in surprise. There was another silence, seemed i was good at making those.
"Well anyways, let me show you you room." Twilight eventually spoke up. I picked my shield back up and followed her upstairs, I could hear the other ponies whispering to each other. Twilight stopped in front of a small door, for reason I am still unsure of the door had a doorknob even though ponies had hooves instead of hands. "This is you room for as long as you need it." The room itself was pretty nice, a desk and mirror, one small drawer, a okay sized bed, and two other doors one a closet the other the bathroom. "Thank you Twilight." I said setting my shield and new pack Celestia had given me down. "Well, while you unpack I'll be waiting for you down stairs." She said, after the door had closed i opened the bag.
Inside, I had a small bag of coins (100 bits), a special seal she had given me as proof of citizenship, a small canister used for holding water, surprisingly a few roles of duct tape, last a few ejection lades for my wrist band. I put the seal and the coin on top of the drawer, the coins on my belt loop, and left the rest in the bag. As i turned to leave I looked back, my shield propped against the wall. If I want them to trust me I have to trust them. I turned and left the room.
As I descended the stairs I saw the girls talking, it was mostly unimportant things. Twilight saw me and motioned me over. "Okay Niko me and the girl are going to ask you a few questions and you can ask us whatever you like." Twilight said, I nodded. "First off we were all were wondering what was your world like, before you know." She said that last bit nervously. I thought about telling her of the good first or the bad, I'm gonna go with bad.
"Well first off, I was very lucky as to the location I lived in. I am from the nation call the United States of America. We were one of the worlds super powers at the time, we had vast amounts of power over some of the smaller countries . But alas where there is power there will always be a want for it, and that leads to war and war never changes. Whole country sides could be stained with the blood of soldier and civilian alike. Famine and illness were common in lesser economically evolved countries." I paused a moment, their faces all showed disgust and repulsion.
"All the while domestic problems like police brutality, rape, theft, murder, corruption in the government. The list goes on, but it's not specifically all humans that are bad. Most people are usually manipulated by fear, money, etc. In my world we don't have a kind ruler to guide and help us, we have rich assholes that just want money and power." I paused again, the expressions on their faces worsened.
"While rich people and evil people control most of us, some still try. While there is a list of people who are pure evil, there are also those who try and show my cruel worlds brighter colors. One man long before I was born his name was Martin Luther King Jr, he began a movement for people of colored skin, because at that time many colored people were hated by Americans. But this man began a movement so large and so powerful he got people to see every man and women no matter their race were equal and so it was named the Civil Rights Movement. There were many men who tried to bring peace to a violent world, Gandhi, Abraham Lincoln, Dalai Lama, and many more. These people brought out the good in my world and helped keep the evil in balance. Does that answer your question Twilight?" Twilight was on the verge of crying. "Y-yes." She said her voice shaky and unsure.
"I already know about most of the workings of this world from what you told me aboard the Aurora. So I guess the only things I want to ask is what is the outside wall for? I thought you said this was a peaceful place?" Twilight looked even more uneasy. "Well it was, everything started a few months ago. First strange noises were a common things in thick areas of forest like the Everfree. Then ponies started disappearing, some came back but they just kept rambling about that darkness and the end." I could see Rainbow looking down shaking in fear or anger I couldn't tell. "Then the raids began, hoards of these strange creatures began attacking. They looked liked ponies, until you got close." Twilight didn't continue, she just looked at her hooves as did we all. "I think we should pick this up tomorrow." I stood and helped Twilight up. "Goodnight everypony." As I lead Twilight to her room I could hear the others leaving.
"Goodnight Twilight, if you need me you know where I am." I said as I left her room, she gave no response. I walked into the room I had been given. Luckily the bed was big enough for me. I lay down, closing my eyes I saw my shield the last true relic from my world. I let sleep take me and the darkness encase my mind
Author's Note
To you the Readers, I want to say I know that my grammar, spelling, etc is pretty bad. I will try to fix it as best as I can. If you have any tips as how I can do that leave a comment, also if you think I should add anything or anyone.
Songs:Cake-Nugget
Of Gods And Men
--???--
I walked along a single path, I was in what looked like a stone forest. The path was of twisting grass with stones marking the sides. The night sky was visible along with the galaxies and stars, but the stone tree, me the ground all were bright as day even though there was no sun or moon.
"Hello!" I called out.
I heard the sound of quick hoof steps, I looked in the direction of the noise only to see part of a red tail dash behind a tree. I left the path and began the chase. "Hey come back here!" I was among the trees, but I could see no trace of the being. I began to run forward not knowing where I was going, I could see flashes of red and white out of the corner of my vision. I began to run faster my lungs burned and my legs cried out for me to stop. I saw a small patch of green a small ways ahead, I put the last of my energy into my legs and ran. At the sound of snapping twigs and crunching leaves I burst from the stone prison. I fell to the ground face down in a soft patch of tall green grass. I could hear the sound of birds and the sound of a thundering waterfall, finding the energy to lift my head my jaw meet back with the ground.
A small waterfall poured crystal clear water into a massive lake, surrounded by thick grass and moss. A small path way of stepping stones lead to a small patch of land in the center of the lake, birds of all kind congregated around the island and floated in the water. On the island was a true sight to behold, an alicorn sat in the center birds and animals cuddling against her. Her mane was ethereal it was dark blue and sunset yellow and looked like a galaxy, her coat was white with a slight orange hue, her wings ended in the same ethereal matter as her mane and tail. She looked up from a rabbit that she had been petting and stared straight at me. I very slowly got to my feet, using her wing she motioned me to go to her.
I began to jump across the stones, I could see alligators, fish, turtles, and many other forms of aquatic life swimming around. As I neared the island I could hear her singing, she truly was a goddess. The song was in a language I didn't know but it made me feel at peace. The animals parted and I sat next to her, as she finished her song she looked out over the water towards the fall. "You are wondering why you are here, correct?" She said, her voice was calm and gentle, it made you feel safe and comforted. "Well I am going to guess that we are in a dream." I said, I could knew I was dreaming but at the same time knew what was happening was real. The alicorn giggled, it made my heart stop. "No young human, I meant Equestria the world me and my husband created." She said, I let out an "Oh" to be truth full I thought i had died and this was heaven.
I nodded towards her not trusting my mouth to give a polite response. "Well, as you know Equestria is a peaceful place. Or, it was." She looked me in the eye. "I have been watching you for a while, before you came here. While your personality is snide and sometimes rude, your heart is usually in the right place." I didn't know how to respond to being told I had been stalked by a goddess and she thought I was a good person. "I saw through your struggle back in your world, you would fight for those close to you and never let anyone who is innocent be harmed." Again was she right, I was mostly thinking about what this whole conversation was about. "Pardon me Mrs..." I trailed off, I had not learned her name. "Oh, my deepest apologizes my name is Queen Lumina maker of the planet Terra and founder of Equestria." She said, I nodded. "Pardon me your highness but what is the reason you brought me hear. I know there were other survivors who are much more suited to protect this place than me." I said, she once again looked outward.
"While there were others I could bring I chose you because of something inside you." Her horn lit up in a bright orange glow. I saw a small sphere of black and white appear in front of me, a small strand of light connected to my chest. "This is what every soul looks like while other may have more on the black side or the white side, it all depends on the person or pony." I took the sphere into my hands, it was warm and gave of a small pulse. "Nikolai..." She put a hoof under my chin and turned my head towards her.
"I chose you because you are the only soul who has the power to til the coming storm in either two directions." She said, with a hoof she motioned to the white half. "You can either fight on the side of Terra and Equestria and stand by my two daughters...or..." She motioned to the black half. "You can fight beside those who are coming." I looked back to my soul. "Wait, if I could fight by either side why tell me. For all you know I could kill you daughters and fight for evil, so why take the risk and not just fight yourself? You are a goddess or the realm after all." I said, she let out a sigh looking at her reflection in the water. "While that is true the beings that are coming are also lead by a god of evil. Our powers would clash and destroy this realm killing us and everything in existence. But one who has a soul like your of true balance can use his own born powers to give either side the advantage and shape the new world." With another flash of light the image of my soul vanished.
"So what I ask you now is who do you fight for?" Her expression was blank, the choice was't hard. "Queen Lumina I swear to you I fight for Equestria." I stood and bowed to her. I heard her stand, she placed her horn on my right shoulder then my left. "Then Nikolai I hear by deem you a Galactic Knight of Equestria and you shall serve under me, but first I must show you what powers you soul truly has." Her horn light up as bright as the sun forcing me to cover my eyes.
--Ponyville Library 5 AM--
I shot out of bed, my head almost hit the roof. Landing on the wood floor I took a defensive position, looking around I realized I was back in the library. I finally calmed down after taking a few deep breaths, I looked out the window the sun was just now moving over the horizon. I decided to take walk and sort out what Lumina had shown me, in what seemed like second I knew so much. I could feel something inside me, on one half it felt pure and right the other hungry and filled with rage. I walked out into the cool morning air, I saw a few ponies in the town square just starting to set up stalls in the market. I simply walked towards where I had seen the park from aboard the airship. Knowing Twilight would have a few questions to ask me I left a small note. Ponyville was much large than it appeared, so after a few minutes of walking I came to and open park there was not a single pony in sight except the guards who walked along the wall.
Thinking about what Lumina had shown my with that light show, I walked into the most open area. looking around I only saw a few spread out trees. I thought back to the images that had flashed through my mind, I remember that for this to work I had to allow either dark or light hold temporary dominance over my soul. I mus keep the two in balance. I stood tall and still, my breath was barely audible and my head clear. "Blacken my soul." My voice was deep and rough, as I opened my eyes my vision had a red hue. I felt a weight on my back, with a grin I flexed my wings. I looked to my right wing (6 ft), it was a deep purple at the top and turned blood red at the bottom. My muscles were slightly large and my hands were covered in a hard yet flexible dark matter. I had to black horns protruding from my forehead. I gave a few quick swipes with my claws a black mist trailed behind each swipe. "Awesome." I practiced what little martial arts I knew for a while not paying any attention to the time.
As my arms and legs began to tier I could see the sun was already a decent height in the sky, I felt a great heat and so I took off all but my pants, the feeling was strange seeing as it was only late winter. I could see a few ponies a fair distance away, not wanting to be seen like this I let go of the energy and my body changed back. Of course it would never go fully to plan, and my wings remained. Okay... maybe I can play it off. I began to walk back to clothes slung over my shoulder. As always I got a some odd stares. Same shit different universe. As I got the the library I saw a large golden chariot awaiting out front, two royal guards hooked to the front. I passed by them, yet they didn't even spare me a glance, well trained. Upon entering the tree I saw Celestia and her sister Luna.
The two princesses and Twilight turned to face me, Celestia's eyes went wide, Twilight's even wider, Luna seemed to be looking me over. "Hello Celestia hello Luna." I said giving a small bow. "It's seems mother was telling the truth." Luna finally spoke. "Yes, and I and do believe she chose the right champion." Celestia said without taking her eyes from my wings.
I hung my shirt and jacket on a small rack and sat on the couch. "Um, Twilight what's going on?" I asked my purple roommate, after a few second of her jaw opening and closing she manged to answer. "I was just about to ask." We both faced the sisters. "Well, both me and Luna received a message from mother telling us of a champion she had chosen. I had a feeling it would be you." Celestia said, I looked to Luna who simply nodded. "I see you have already tested you abilities." She said, I put my wing in front of me observing the almost scale like material. "Has she explained what it means to be in the two different forms?" While Lumina had told me I will be affected by the two forms she had forgotten to explain how they would effect me. "She only told me I would be different she did not say how though." Celestia let out a sigh and looked a Luna. "Well in the form you are now, which is you Dark form your actions, judgement skills, and over all personality will have a more evil edge to them." Luna said, from what I had learned Luna was once an "evil" being known as Nightmare Moon who wanted to bring eternal night unto ponykind. So who better to explain and train my evil form than her.
Celestia spoke next. "While in you Light form you will have a more good edge to you decisions. While we know mother has explained you powers you still must learn what skills you can use and how to control them." She pulled out a small scroll and gave it to me. It read.
"To whom it may concern
For whoever holds this deed is the current owner of the Canterlot house hold 15 Mane Street.
I looked at Twilight then to Celestia, this time my jaw was open. Twilight took the note and reread it a few times. "So, Niko will be staying in Canterlot?" It almost seemed as though Twilight would miss me, oh wait she would, crap. "Only for the duration of his training that will last until he can fully control his powers." Celestia nodded to Luna and they both began to leave. "A carriage will arrive in the morning to pick you up. Also I do apologize for pushing and pulling you from Canterlot to Ponyville and back." She said, and with that the two sisters took to the air and vanished from sight. "I only wish I could have had time to be better acquainted with your friends and see the town." I looked to Twilight who looked at the deed her ears lay flat, she perk up a bit before she spoke again. "Well maybe you can call us when you want to." She said, she began digging through a few cabinets and drawers. "And how could we do that, I don't think letters will be all that efficient or effective." She doesn't answer but simply pulls a small box from one of the many shelves. "With these!" Using her magic she pulls to small triangular stones from the box.
Handing one to me I noticed it had a rune carved into it. "Using these we can communicate long distances through image and sound, all you have to do is speak the name of the person you wish to see and a visual image will appear before you and them." She ran up he stairs out of sight, I could hear her door close. "Only hyper about books and magic that one." I thought aloud. "Hey! I can be excited about anything I want!" I looked behind myself to see an almost see through image of Twilight glaring back at me. "Uh...hehehe sorry I didn't mean it like that." I said, she snorted. "Anyways, these stones can be use anywhere, they only require a small 2 minute recharge time, so don't over use it and not have it available when you need it." Her image went fuzzy before winking out.
I felt the texture of the stone, even though the rune had been carved it still felt smooth untouched. I put it in my pocket just as Twilight came downstairs, she had a small book in her magical grasp. "Lastly, take this with you. It's about local customs so if you aren't sure about something publicly related check this." Taking the book I saw it had no title only a picture of the Equestrian Symbol. "Now come on while we still have the time how about I give you quick tour of the town?" Without waiting for an answer she walked out the door. I put the book on the table and hurried after her.
When Twilight said Ponyville was a small town I had expected a small settlement town, but while it lacked the technology it was almost the same size as my home town. "So where are we going exactly?" I said, we had been walking for a few minutes and didn't seem to have a set destination. "Well Rarity said that she wanted to make you some new cloths, and you may need them while your in Canterlot." She said, further down the road the building known as the Carousel Boutique stood proudly. "I've got a bad feeling about this." I said to myself.
Most houses around Ponyville looked to be those you would find in a very old fashion town, the boutique however was barely keeping within the villages rustic aesthetic. As we enter the shop my nose was filled with the smell of perfume, scented oils, and other beauty products. "Rarity, are you here!?" Twilight called out, light hoof steps were heard on the floor above us. "I'll be down in a moment!" The sing-song voice called back, as Rarity came from the stairs she smiled. "Ah I was hoping you would be coming. Please Niko follow me." Begrudgingly I followed the marshmallow to a small pedestal surrounded by mirrors. "Now please your shirt so I may take measurements." She says, I was going to be standing for a while.
It didn't take as long as I thought but my legs still fell asleep by the time Rarity had finished. Now began the long process of standing still as cloth, scissors, etc flew around my. "So Niko, I heard the princess was in town earlier, I assume it was you who she was visiting?" She says working on the torso of my new shirt. "Yes, she was here for me. Apparently they are going to help me in controlling my new powers." I raised my left arm, in the next few second a black mist covered my arm and it was replaced by the same black matter. Rarity stopped her work and stared at my arm. "Oh...um...well, that's unique." She said, my arm returned to normal and she went back to her work. "The princesses themselves will be training me. Luna, having been Nightmare Moon and therefore has more knowledge will train me in using my dark magic. Celestia will be showing me how to use my light magic." I looked over to see Twilight had passed out on the couch, she must have fallen asleep when Rarity was taking measurements.
While the rest of the work was done in silence I couldn't help but think about what Lumina had told me about being her champion it seemed so far fetched. Soon there after Rarity was done. "Ah, well darling don't keep me waiting how does it look?" I turned and faced the mirrors.
My shirt was made from hemp and cotton, it it had long sleeves, the most of it was black with grey marks, the collar and cuffs were a deep red. The pants were hemp and a darker version of my old cargo pants. "They how much do I owe you?" She simply laughed. "Nothing dear consider it a welcoming and farewell gift." She said, I gave her a light smile. "Well let me know if you ever need my help, I still do have a small debt to repay." I hopped from the stand and walked over to Twilight. Her chest rose and fell in a rhythmic motion as she slept in peace. "TWILIGHT WAKE UP THERE'S A MANTICORE!" I shouted into her ear. She shot from the couch her horn a blaze with magic, she looked around frantically until she saw me and Rarity giggling. "That's...not...funny." She said panting, I pat her back and tried to calm her down. "I know I just couldn't pass up the opportunity." She shook her head, with a small goodbye we left Rarity to do whatever.
"So where are we heading next?" I asked, she gave a small snort still a bit grumpy with me. "Well, Applejack is pretty busy this time of day, I don't know where Rainbow is, so I guess we could stop by Sugar Cube Corner." I nodded, the building wasn't hard to stop from anywhere in the town, it's roof stuck out more than any other. Even from outside the bakery I could smell the treats that were baked within. Once I ducked under the door, I saw the inside looked as unique as the outside. Behind the counter stood a kindly looking mare. "Ah hello Twilight, this must be the new creature ponies have been talking about." She said, normally ponies were either scared and avoided me or gave me a mean look so her warm welcome was a nice change. "Yes Mrs. my name is Nikolai." She smiled back. "Well, I'm Mrs.Cake my husband is in the kitchen." She turned to Twilight. "Well, is there anything you would like?" Twilight looked over the menu. "Um, I'll have the chocolate shake. Niko what about you?" I gave the menu a quick look over. "I'll have a strawberry shake." I said, Mrs. Cake took our orders before entering the Kitchen.
Me and Twilight sat at a booth next to the door. "Hey Twilight back on the airship you mentioned you had a brother in Canterlot right?" I asked, she perked up and looked out a window towards the far off city. "Yes I do, his name is Shining Armor. He's the captain for the Royal Guard and husband to my old foalsitter Princess Cadence." She said merrily. I remembered Cadence from when I first woke up in Canterlot. "Well if I see him in Canterlot I'll tell him you said hello." Twilight smiled and looked back towards Canterlot. Mrs. Cake brought our drinks before returning to other customers. None of the ponies gave us a glance which was odd, the ones outside thought I was a monster these ponies don't even notice me. Uh oh. I looked towards Twilight. "We should get out of here." I said flatly, she looked at me as I chugged the shake. "Why what's going on?" She looked around nothing was out of the ordinary. "I can't explain it, but just trust me." I said standing up, she finished her drink and followed.
After waving good bye to Mrs. Cake we left the building, as we left the feeling of malice was gone. "So Niko what was that about?" Twilight asked, I looked back to see a pink blur move from the top window. "I don't know, and don't want to." I said, a few minutes later we arrived back at the library. "Well, as small as it is Ponyville is an overall nice place." I said, I grabbed the book about pony customs and sat down. "Yes it is, I'm glad I was sent here even I didn't want to leave Canterlot at first." She said also picking out a book at random. We both sat on the couch and read.
~~~ Equestrian Customs~~~
If you are reading this then you must not know much about the local society that is Equestria. Well let me start by saying my name is Noteworthy. I was born and raised in Manehatten so I saw many different races come and go from the local ports. Most of them knew little or nothing about Equestria or it's traditions, so that's why I a writing this book. While there are some obvious things everypony knows about Equestria there are also some you may not know of. While things like crime and behavior should be pretty obvious things like physical gestures may differ from country to country. So there are a few basic things you should know.
First off is hoof/claw/paw motions. I shouldn't have to tell anything that putting a hoof on another's flank is pretty much frowned upon. Next, don't crouch down and look a pony in the eye that has a number of different meanings sometimes it's a challenge others it's more intimate. Lastly, DON'T touch a pegasus' wings this is either a sing or courtship or sing of trust. That's all the basic gestures you should know. Next chapter: Holidays.
While the chapter was short it killed some time and gave me a bit more knowledge about how things work around hear. I looked out a window and saw the sun was staring to gain it's orange hue. I thought back to the sunset I saw back home, right before I died. Most guys called me a sissy for liking to watch the sunset, I don't really care though because the people who insulted me usually ended up with a few "scrapes" afterward. Getting up I saw Twilight still wrapped in her book. "Hey Twi." I said waving my hand in front of her, she woke from her trance and looked at me. "I'm gonna head up stairs and rest." I said, she nodded and closed her book. "Okay, goodnight Niko and if I'm asleep when you leave for Canterlot goodbye." I smiled at her and walked to my room. I saw my shield, my bag and the...coin.
The coin sat on the desk where i had left it, but it was glowing. I walked to it and saw it was glowing a dim white, I picked it up and a second light was visible. The other light was on the side with the rough design it gave of a dark purple light, it was brighter than the other side had been. I looked back and saw my wings were still scaled. "Light." MY wings became feather and the familiar white mist surround my hand. Now the coin began to grow brighter on the white side. An indicator? I put the coin down but balanced in on it's side. When I let go both side had the same brightness. Well I'll be. I decided to tell Luna or Lumina if I saw them in my dreams.
I left the room and walked to the bathroom, while built for a pony I could manage. hanging my cloths on a small rack I looked into the mirror. My body was more built than it had been on earth, my wings folded against my sides perfectly, my long black hair was hung down my back, my eyes had changed originally they were brown now one was a light blue the other a light red. Whatever Lumina had done to me was no very obvious. I was also taller standing at 6'2 from my original 5'9. I let out a sigh and climbed in the shower. It felt good, seeing as I hadn't had one since before the walkers came. I felt the warm water flow down my back, it felt strange on my wings. They were much more sensitive than my skin, that must have been what the book meant. My mind began to wander about how Lumina had brought me here, she said that she had been watching me, why. I know it has to do with my soul and all, but what could be coming that Celestia and Luna and their army would need me for.
I turned the water off and stepped out. Another thought crossed my mind. What about my world, what happens to it? I thought as I put my pants on. Leaving the room, I could hear voices downstairs. I quietly made my way towards the edge of the stairs. "Ah don't know Twi, Niko may be a nice feller and all but he seems a might off." Applejack's voice said, what did she mean had I done something wrong. "Look AJ I know Niko is different and he always has his distant look, but you weren't there for his story. He came from a world where... well I shouldn't tell you unless he wants me to but know he has gone through some rough times worse than anything we have ever been through." Twilight said back, well at least one of them is on my side. But what struck me the most is when she said distant look, I guess a year with dead as your only company can make a person distant.
"Well, ah may not know what he's been through and what he wants to share is his business. Ah'm just going by what ah seen." AJ said, I heard the sound of hoof steps. "Just make sure he ain't gonna hurt nopony before he goes off ta Canterlot." AJ said before the sound of the door opened and closed. I heard Twilight sigh and move into a different room, I made my way back to my room and into my bed. So they may be kind but they don't fully trust me. Should they? I thought, as I lay there my mind simply wandered about what was in store for me. How hard would training be, what was coming in they way of danger. I slowly began to drift off and soon fell asleep.
---The Garden---
Once more I walked along the grass path in the stone forest. I soon came to the lake and it was exactly the same as before. I saw Lumina once again surrounded by animals, but I also saw another pony, it was Luna. I walked across the stones to the island again, the godlike couple saw me approach and smiled. I sat at Luna's side this time. "Welcome back Nikolai, I see your already starting your journey." Lumina said, nudging my wing with hers. "Yes, and I believe I will have some help." I said, Luna smiled. "I do hope to see you in Canterlot soon Niko, also know your training will also be mixed with some of the Royal and Shadow guards standard straining." She said, so I am going to be a Galactic Knight, and be trained along side Royal and Shadow Guards... joy.
"Lumina, Celestia gave me a coin at first I thought it was simply a coincidence that it had what are Celtic marks but now I'm not sure." I thought about the coin and it appeared in my hand the light once again glowing a bright purple. When Lumina saw it her eyes went wide, that worried me. "Did my daughter tell you where she found this." She said taking the coin in her magic. "Yes, Twilight and her friends found it along side me when I first came here." I said, the coin shown a brilliant white in her grasp. "Niko this isn't an ordinary coin it doesn't have a name in your language but it's a device used to empower gods." She said handing to relic back. "Wait if it is used to give a god more power, then doesn't that mean it could make a mortal a god?" I asked looking at the small piece of metal. Lumina looked out of the water, Luna remained silent a look of deep thought on her face.
"Yes in a way, a creature like a unicorn would have godlike powers capable of magic beyond all others. To and earth pony or pegasus it would fill them with so much power but they have no way to release it." Lumina said, she shuddered at the last part. "But, for one like you Niko. As long as you hold that coin, you can never die by a mortals hand." She said, my jaw hit the grass. I stared at the coin, it seemed to small so unimportant and useless. But in reality it could make me a demigod, should I even have it. "Lumina, before when you made me a knight under your order you told me that I was needed for something, but what is that something what is coming?" I said, her gaze held on the waterfall. "War Niko war, I know not when or whom you will be against. All I know is that it is coming." She stood and faced both me and Luna. "Both of you and Celestia must be ready for what ever comes, me and Galactis will be arriving soon." Luna jumped when she heard that. "You and father are coming to Equestria!?" She said a smile on her face, Lumina gave her motherly smile back. "While it may only be temporary, yes." Luna hugged her mother while saying something that was unintelligible to me.
Once more my gaze turned to the relic, the purple side shown brightly in my grasp. "Lumina, about the coin the two sides, they represent whatever form I'm in yes?" I said, she looked at the purple glow. "Yes, while for most it shines the color that their soul is, but since you can change from being good and bad it will change depending on whether you are in light or dark form." She said, I stood up and switched my forms back and forth and as I did the coin's light changed colors. "Interesting, well Lumina it's been great to see you and I can't wait for your arrival , but I have to wake up and prepare to go to Canterlot." I said, I don;t know if it was my personality or my dark for but with a sly grin and a wink I woke.
