Jokers Wild

by blowngasket

Rating: teen
Tags: Main 6, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Human, Romance, Original Character, Spike, Adventure
Length: 79741

A vacation for a loyal member of the Equestrian Royal Court leaves the Mane 6 pondering about the odd yet enthusiastic man. Why does he always wear that mask, and what are his true intentions that it hides? (Humanized Ponies Warning)

Royal Jester Perry O'te is asked to take a break from his job, much to his displeasure. He loves to be at the castle and treasures his time working and making people laugh, but that isn't really why he was forced to leave. What is the real reason Celestia asked him to vacation at the quiet town of Ponyville, and why does he wear that mask of his? What happens when trouble starts to brew in town, and the true reason for his stay is revealed. Will the Mane 6 continue to accept his company or are there some people no longer deserving of the magic of friendship?

(This story takes place before the end of season 3, and contained humanized ponies.)

Cover artwork done by my great friend Katgurl5. Check out her other work at her deviantart page. Just search her and your good to go (link taken out due to recent NSFW purge, and deviant art can have quite a bit of that). Some of it is NSFW, so you have been thoroughly warned.

Published 2013-02-25 05:30:01 UTC
Last updated 2013-12-25 12:53:27 UTC

The Crazy Thing About Parties

Chapter 2: The Crazy Thing About Parties

Twilight's day could have been completely normal today. She could have spent the good part of the day in the library, straightening up the shelves with Spike, getting picky about the setup, undoing all of their hard work, and redoing it. Finally, she would settle down with a relaxing outing with her friends. That was supposed to be the plan, minus the re-rearranging. When all is said and done, she would have most likely done so anyway. Instead, as she was about to start the day, a nice looking roll of parchment popped into existence. The parchmentl was a letter bearing Celestia's royal seal. She quickly dropped what she was doing, quite literally, as a few books hit the desk with a thud, nearly spilling the contents of the cup next to them. Taking a seat at her desk, she quickly undid the seal and started to open the scroll.

"I wonder what she needs from me this early on in the day?" taking a sip of the black liquid from inside the cup, the dark haired girl began to ponder. "I hope everything is alright. What if something happened! Oh no! What will I do!?" Twilight began to panic at the many different cataclysmic scenarios playing in her head. They ranged from rampant space rocks to ancient super monsters arising from their millennial slumber to wreak havoc on the entire population of Equestria.

"Just open the letter, Twi, and seriously stop drinking coffee in the morning. It makes you all paranoid," the voice came from a green haired boy walking out of the kitchen.

He wore a frilly apron, underneath it a purple jacket and matching pants. In each hand were two plates of scrambled eggs. He set one plate down in front of Twilight, placing his on his lap as he sat down on a couch. She stared at the partially opened scroll, and then stared at the cup of coffee in front of her. She nodded and pushed the black liquid away from her.

"You're right, Spike. It can't be that bad. Probably just wanting to ask me a question, or let me know how everything is going," she sighed with relief as she opened the letter and started to read. Her eyes started to go wide as she continued through the letter.

"Eerying awigh?" Spike asked with a mouth full of toast.

"No! Everything isn't all right! It's anything but alright! It could be one of the least alright things!" she started to panic and began to pace in circles, deep in thought.

She carried this on for a minute until finally running upstairs to change out of her star covered PJ's. Spike got up and looked over the letter himself to see what the big deal was, still skeptical about it being that bad.

Dear Twilight Sparkle,

I would first like to take note in letting you know that nothing apocalyptical is occurring, so you can stop worrying. Secondly, I have a favor to ask of you and most possibly your friends as well. I will try to keep it short, as you are probably busy.

An important member of our castle staff is going down to Ponyville for his vacation, though he does not find the premise of relaxation promising. I would like you to try and help him get adjusted into life in ponyville and show him around. He will be arriving on the afternoon train from Canterlot, and I hope for you and your friends to be there to greet him. Don't worry, though. You will most likely be able to spot him as he is quite hard to miss. Just look for the oddest person there and you'll have found him. Just be warned though, he will leave if he is not satisfied. I am counting on you for this. I trust you can do this task, so good luck and try your best.

Sincerely

Princess Celestia

Spike looked over the letter again and again, trying to figure out what could possibly be so bad about this. With the kind of company Twilight keeps, it surely would not be difficult. Looking at the clock it was a quarter after ten, leaving a good three hours before this mans arrival if Spike had the train schedule correct. Spike's thought process was quickly interrupted by Twilight quickly running down the stairs, wearing her usual knee length purple skirt and white dress shirt. Her hair had been straightened down from her previous bedhead state, accentuating the pink and lavender highlights within the dark blue. She quickly gathered her belongings and made her way to the door.

"Spike, what will I do? I don't have enough time to get all my friends and set up a welcoming! He'll be here soon. Oh what if he's all snobby and doesn't want to do anything?! What if he tells the princess that I was a horrible greeter?!" she started to babble out quickly.

"Seriously...no more coffee. I'm sure you'll do fine, but I'll help you in anyway I can," Twilight began to nod, but was interrupted by Spike's hand raising up to silence her. "as long as you promise me a day off tomorrow," he smiled a most sincere smile one could muster with large pointy teeth.

Twilight didn't have time to argue, so she nodded reluctantly. Spike's raised hand turned into a fist, pumping the air in celebration. "Thanks, Spike. Just go tell Pinkie to get a party ready as fast as she can...and no surprise parties! You remember the last one we planned out didn't go so well," Spike nodded, shuddering at the simple mental thought of that party. He was still unsure if that elderly couple have decided to come out of the house. "I have to get the others together, so when you two are ready meet us at the station."

"Sure thing, Twi. It will be perfect!" Spike replied. Twilight ran out the door quickly now Spike following after he put her eggs in the ice box. He tossed off his apron and walked out, happily making his way down to Sugercube Corner.

The train ride was nice, if not a little boring for Perry. He sat quietly, sulking by a window. He didn't like to be bored. It was boring. Looking around the train, he watched others quietly talking to friends or family, acting completely civil towards each other. He officially declared in his head that trains were boring in general, and would have to make an effort to avoid them in the near future.

The time continued to march on with each passing minute, as well as a new sitting position to try to remain comfortable. Needless to say, the nice lady giving out drinks was more than confused when she approached to ask him if he wanted a drink and found herself at eye level with his boots. She followed the feet downwards to stare at their owner, who casually leaned back, arms tucked behind his head.

"Excuse me sir, ummm is everything alright?" she asked him, looking down at his overly happy mask, slightly nervous of its creepy stare looking her in the face.

"I am fine, miss. I am merely trying to find new ways to sit on a train, and so far this is by far the most comfortable. I must admit, though, that I am displeased with the amount of chewing gum stuck under the seats. You really should have the man responsible for cleaning that reprimanded. This is supposed to be a high class transportation cart. Oh, and can you leave me a cup of water on my foot? I'll get to it later," he replied to the woman.

She simply nodded and smiled, meekly placing a cup on his heel and walking away quickly as to not disturb the slightly disturbed man any further. He spent the rest of the train ride counting wads of gum.

Spike entered the bakery, looking around for the intended acquaintance. The busy hours for the morning passed, so she should have no problem helping out. Still, Spike loved just standing there, smelling the aroma from the kitchen every time he entered this place. Sugarcube Corner was the best, if not only, bakery here in Ponyville. Unfortunately, time was limited and he had to acquire the help of possibly the best party planner in Ponyville, maybe even Equestria.

"Pinkie, are you here?" he asked, looking around. A pink haired head popped itself out of the kitchen, her face smiling at the arrival of company.

"Spike!" she yelled out quickly, taking off her apron and heading towards him in almost a bouncing stride. Her outfit was incredibly bright. A pink frilly dress, decorated with streamer and balloon designs, making her noticeable from almost ten miles away. "It's so nice to see you, Spike. I needed someone to give these new cakes a try! I don't think I have it right like it's missing something but I can't seem to figure out what it is but I'm sure you could tell me. I mean Mr. and Mrs. Cake keeps telling me it's perfect and I want to believe them but I need a second opinion so please?" she spoke very quickly, not realizing that Spike was already sold at free cake.

"Sure, Pinkie. If it will help then it will be my honor!" he said as he walked into the kitchen. The cake stood there on the table in its full chocolate glory, decorated with miniature cookies on the sides and little chocolate candies sprinkled on top. His eyes widened at the look of this chocolate behemoth. "Oh wow! This will be great for the party!" Spike said joyfully. As he spoke, he finally remembered the reason for his visit.

"Party? Party?! Who's having a party cause I pretty sure that all party noted events are caught up on, unless I'm missing someone! Oh my gosh!" Pinkie spoke quickly, pulling out a calendar from her dress. She started to flip through it, checking the date to make sure she didn't forget someone. Spike was about to ask how she managed to store that thing in there, but he had more important topics to discuss.

"Pinkie, we have a guest coming from Canterlot and we are supposed to get a party ready for him. Oh I can't believe I almost forgot why I was here," he looked over at the clock, its hands reading a quarter after eleven. "Ok we have two hours to get an awesome party together and then meet Twilight and the others at the train station. This task will be difficult one, Agent Pinkie. Do you accept?"

"This will be the best last minute party ever, Agent Spike. Now let's get to work, we got decorating and people to gather!" she yelled out and immediately started running around gathering the necessary materials. She managed to get them in place in a record time that would make Rainbow Dash jealous.

"Say, Spike, should we make this one a surprise party?" Pinkie asked the younger boy as he began working on the seating arrangement.

"Sure. Whatever you think would be good," Spike responded, to busy to really pay attention to the question. He was more concerned about setting up chairs and tables to focus on trivial matters.

"Great! It will be even better than the last one!"

The Crazy Thing About Introductions

Chapter 3: The Crazy Thing About Introductions

"...and thats why I need your help. He's going to be here soon, and I would greatly appreciate it," Twilight was speaking to Applejack, following the slightly tanned farm girl as she carried two baskets of apples, one on each shoulder.

The group following Twilight consisted of three others, all female. Twilight managed to gain the aid of her friends and was now waiting for Applejack to give her response.

"Sure thing, Twi. I jus' have to get this here load back to the barn. Tell ya what. I'll meets ya'll at the station, so don't wait up for me," she responded to Twilight's question.

Twilight nodded and Applejack began taking the path back to her home to store her wares. She wore a pair of blue jeans, slightly worn from hard work and an orange flannel shirt over a plain white tee. Atop her head she donned her classic Stetson hat over her long blond hair. The hat was also worn out, but well kept like it was a treasure. The hat really made the farm girl look complete, and she pulled it off quite well.

"Come on, Twilight darling, we haven't all day," said one of the women alongside Twilight. She looked out of place with her well kept purple hair, a nice white dress with subtle diamond patterns along the side, and an unnecessary amount of mascara and lipstick across her face.

"Well Rarity, we wouldn't have been this late if you didn't waste most of our time getting ready," another girl from the group responded. She had on a simple cyan blue tank top and matching shorts, but her most defining features included her neck length rainbow colored hair, large blue wings, and petite yet athletic build.

"Well I'm sorry that some of us are more concerned about how we look in front of nobility Rainbow. They say dress to impress, but I don't think you could impress anyone with that look," Rarity said to Rainbow Dash, obviously in an attempt getting a rise out of her.

The third girl finally spoke up to the others. "Rainbow Dash, Rarity... please stop fighting. Twilight is counting on us... so if you could, please..." she said quietly, just barely getting their attention. She looked at them slightly, her pink hair covering most of her face. She hid herself well in her cloths, wearing a yellow turtleneck sweater, even though the summer is almost apon them, as well as long white dress pants, creating a nice, subtle contrast between the sweater.

"Fluttershy is right. We are running out of time, so let's argue about fashion later after our guest gets settled in," Twilight spoke up.

Their combined words finally got them to stop, though they were still sending slight glares at each other. Almost at the same time, the two crossed their arms and let out a low 'hmph', turning their heads to avoid each other.

"Right right. Let's get going! We haven't got all day," Rainbow said, uncurling her arms and dashing ahead, moving slowly enough though as so everyone else could keep up, not that they were actually running after her. Together the group made there way to the train station to finally meet this mystery man that had caused such commotion, even before his expected arrival.

The train finally pulled into the station, much to the masked man's pleasure. He got out from his bizarre seating arrangement, practically flipping himself upright when he heard the announcement of the trains arrival. He stretched himself out and quickly grabbed his bags, not wanting to be on this train any longer than necessary.

"That darn Celestia might just win this bet. I simply don't want to see another train again for quite some time," he said to himself as he started walking down the walkway towards the exit. He saw the server from earlier and with a playful tone told her, "One hundred and thirty seven," leaving her confused where she stood. Shoving his orange with green polka dotted bag through the door, he finally stepped off the newly renamed boredom devise and onto solid ground. He began to fall in love the feel of afternoon sunlight, its glow invigorating him.

"I, Perry O'te, declare this day to be as fine a day as any. Though my trip was difficult by no small means, the rewards for my diligence are already being generously bestowed onto me. But dear Celestia don't think you have won yet, for there is nothing here that will truly interest me in staying any longer than I have..."

"Umm....excuse me...sir?" a quite voice interrupted him. He looked around for the voice's owner, finding the manner in which she spoke quite adorable. He spotted her and quietly stared at her. "Me and my friends are looking for someone, you wouldn't happen to be...him...would you?"

"And who, my dear, would you happen to be expecting?" Perry responded in a gentlemanly manner.

"We aren't sure...but...um... well," the quiet girl squeaked out meekly, finding it hard to talk to the strange stranger.

"Excuse me?" Perry asked. "I couldn't quite hear you."

"Well the letter said....he would look....unique. That's what Celestia said in her letter," she said. Even if it was barely audible, Perry managed to make it out, his mask hiding his grin.

"Celestia sent you, did she?" he chuckled. "I should have known she would, but even such a cute girl such as yourself will not convince me to..."

"Perry?" another voice spoke up from across the platform. Drawing his attention away from the now deeply blushing girl as she hid her face behind her hair. "What are you doing here?"

"That voice...I recognize that voice anywhere!" he quickly ran towards the speaker. "Twilight!" he picked her up quickly and gave her a huge hug. "I haven't seen you in some time! So this is where you were staying. It's quite...Twilight?" he looked over, her eye twitching as she started to chant.

"Dark clouds send forth your emissary, show judgment to those deemed unworthy..."

A cloud started to form over the two of them getting darker with each hard spoken word.

"Twilight...come on...that's not necessary...please?" Perry begged.

"Lightning!" A bolt shot out of the cloud and into Perry causing him to jolt about in a most uncomfortable way. Even though she was connected by his grasp, Twilight seemed completely unaffected by it. Perry let Twilight go slowly as he started to talk.

"Nice...to know...you haven't changed..." he spat out before falling onto the ground in a thud. By now the other girls, including Applejack who just arrived, noticed the scene and walked over to them.

"Yup, looks weird," Rainbow Dash said to her friend. "Way to go, Twilight. We are supposed to show him a good time...and ya kill him."

"Don't worry, Rainbow. That won't kill him, unfortunately. I know him all too well, and he knows better," she grunted that last bit. "Girls, meet Perry O'te, Royal Jester and what I am guessing the newest temporary resident here."

A slightly creepy laugh started to come from the body on the ground, obviously not dead, as he started to get up. "I rise from the grave to avenge my taken life! Twilight Sparkle, your crimes are grievous and you must suffer th..."

"Perry, don't think I won't do it again!" Twilight spoke firmly.

"...I'll be good..." he said meekly looking towards the ground at his now shuffling feet.

The rest of the group started to giggle slightly. Twilight couldn't help but laugh a bit as well. "I am glad, though. It's wonderful to see you haven't changed either. Though I will ask you nicely to stop picking me up. You know I hate that," Twilight said in a slightly scolding tone.

"But you're so cute when you get angry, Riley Twily Wiley!" Twilight grew a crimson red at the old nickname he used. Her look shifting from embarrassment to anger.

"Dark clouds send forth your emissary..."

"Twilight...I'll stop now! Please don't..."

"Show judgment to those deemed unworthy..."

"I brought you a new book!" he quickly reached into his bag and pulled out a small novel he had on him. Ever since he met Twilight when he first started his job five years back, he had made it a natural habit to keep a book on him at all times. For the kind of situations where pissing Twilight off could be near fatal. Granted he wouldn't be in these situations if he didn't annoy her, he treated her as a little sister and did as such a brother would do to a younger sibling.

"Ooh! Lemme see!" she stopped her chanting and smiled, grabbing the book from his hand. It was a simple adventure novel, but it was uncommon in these parts.

"I picked that up on a trip to the Griffin Empire. Unfortunately, that trip caused me to miss your brothers wedding, and I do regret that," he said to her, happy to not be a twitching pile of flesh at the moment. As Twilight was looking over the book, the rest of them finally walked over to him now that they knew he was somewhat safe to talk to.

"Good day, Mr O'te. It is a pleasure to meet you. The little show there was just the cutest," Rarity spoke to him, drawing his attention towards her.

"I am glad to know my talents of entertainment have not gone unappreciated, Miss...?"

"Rarity, you can just call me Rarity. I run the Carousal Boutique here in Ponyville," he got down on one knee and took her hand and gently placed it against the mouth of his mask.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Rarity," she giggled at the gesture. Sweet, if not a bit unorthodox. He got up from his kneeling posture and started speaking again. "I occasionally hear word of your designs in Canterlot. From what I have seen, I see great things for you. Your talents are obviously no exaggeration if your current outfit is a statement of your work," she nodded and blushed slightly from the statement. "So who else do we have here?" he spoke to the group as he looked around.

"I'm Rainbow Dash!" Rainbow started, drawing over his attention at the bold introduction. "Fastest flyer around and..."

"Winner of the top junior flyers competition about a year back. Spitfire speaks highly of you, even more so after she held that training camp. You got potential from what I hear," Perry told her, her face lighting up in pure joy.

"Oh my gosh, you know Spitfire, like, personally?!" she asked quickly.

"Of course! We are drinking buddies on occasion, though she always manages to drink me under a table. Doesn't help that I cannot hold my liquor. But trivial facts, not important," he laughed slightly, scratching his head in embarrassment. "I'll tell you more later if you're interested, but for now time is running short and there are still people to meet and things to do," Rainbow jumped around a bit, excited with the thought of learning more about one of her idles. Perry drew his attention towards Applejack, walking over to her as he started speaking. "And who might you be?" he asked politely.

"Name's Applejack. My family runs Sweet Apple Acres here in Ponyville," she responded proudly.

"Ahh, the famous Apple family. Never did liked apples. I have always been more of an orange guy myself," he said slyly towards her, though obviously in a joking manor.

"That there is a lie if I ever heard one," she responded, a bit frustrated at his comment.

"Wow, you're good. I have heard that you are somewhat of a human lie detector, though it was worth it for the rise I got out of you. I meant no disrespect. I do enjoy apples and your families farm has been a favorite of mine for years," he spoke to her.

"Well, I suppose I can forgive ya, but you watch that orange talk around me, or I'll have to introduce your face to my boot," she said back half jokingly half seriously. Perry took that as a sign to leave her alone speak to the last of the girls there.

"Thank you again for finding me as I got off the train," he said to Fluttershy.

"It's no problem. My name is Fluttershy. It...is nice to meet you...Mr. Perry," she said quietly still hiding slightly behind her hair.

"Hmmm...that not right," he gently brushed her hair out of her face causing her to freeze. "A beautiful woman like you shouldn't be afraid to face the world. A shame in all accounts..." she just stood there paralyzed, eyes like a deer in front of a train. Perry looked over to Twilight. "Ummm...is she ok?"

"She will be fine, just give her a minute. This usually happens when someone startles her like that," Twilight said reassuringly, nose still in the new book. As she finished speaking, a voice came from the other end of the platform. Everyone turned to see Spike and Pinkie running towards them.

"Sorry....we're late..." an out of breath Spike said to the group. "So where's the guy we are...no way! Perry, is that you?!" Spike yelled out, eyes wide.

"In the flesh, Spike. Long time no see my little friend," he said happily at his reunion with Spike.

"Perry!" Spike started running towards Perry, and he responded the same, making his way towards the young man.

To them, it was as if the world was bright and colorful as they slowly moved closer to each other. To everyone else...a pair of guys charging each other.

"Spike!" he yelled out, getting closer with his arms out wide open.

"PERRY!" Spike opened his arms as well getting even closer.

"SPIKE!" as they were about to hug they stopped and just gave each other a simple handshake.

"Sup..." they both said in unison, with everyone but Pinkie and Fluttershy groaning at the scene. He glanced over to the brightly colored girl following Spike. He leaned in close to him and started to whisper.

"You got yourself a cute girlfriend there. She looks a bit old for you, but most definitely a lot of fun," he chuckled towards the now blushing Spike.

"No no no! You got it all wrong! I was just helping her out before we came together!" Spike quickly defended himself from Perry, who chuckled at his flustered response. This is Pinkie Pie. She works at Sugercube Corner," suddenly the one they were talking about got between them and started talking to Perry quickly.

"Hi there! I'm Pinkie Pie, though you can call me Pinkie. What's it like working in the castle? Do you do anything neat? Why are you wearing a mask like that? Were you scarred in some horrific accident and became the monster that hides in the movie theater playing a pipe organ? Do you like chocolate? What is your favorite color? How old are you? Do you like parties?"

"Calm down there, Pinkie. I can only answer so much at a time," Perry responded, taking a deep breath. "Fun jester fun that would be neat yes bright ones twenty three who doesn't!" he spoke in a complete if yet nonsensical sentence.

"Well then what are we waiting for?! We got a fun day ahead of us and only so little time to do so!" Pinkie jumped up and down quickly, everyone else nodding in agreement.

"Lead the way girls, this place is getting dull anyways. That boredom machine sucks out all the fun in the area," he said as he started his way off the platform.

"Boredom machine?" everyone else said, minus Pinkie who was well on her way following Perry. Twilight could only think this day will only get more and more interesting with the royal screwball in town.

The Crazy Thing About Surprises

Chapter 4: The Crazy Thing About Surprises

"So there I was, face in the piece of cake, the griffin ambassador just looking at me as I looked directly at him. After a few awkward seconds, he started to laugh, and even to this day I was surprised that I didn't lose my head," Perry chuckled as he was telling stories to the group of girls. Spike and Twilight, having heard most of them already, just sat back and let him enjoy himself. They made their way over to Sugarcube Corner for Perry's party, knowing that a Pinkie party would seal the deal on the fun loving jesters stay. "...and then, Twily wandered the castle for hours, trying to find her stuffed doll. It was the funniest thing I have ever seen. She stopped sleepwalking soon afterwards. Most interesting way to meet someone," Perry smiled as he finished his story. Twilight, only hearing the end of it, had anger written all over her face.

"Twilight, how the heck did you manage to leave your doll in the icebox?" Rainbow chuckled. This only further made the situation worse for Perry, noticing her beginning to mumble a spell under her breath.

"Now Twilight...no need to be angry. We all do silly things every now and then..." Perry tried to reason with her, but it was no good at this point, especially when the sun got shadowed and he heard the familiar ending for the spell she was using.

"Lightning!" Twilight yelled as a bolt shot from the cloud forming above Perry. He started to twitch as the electricity flowed through him, leaving him a convulsing mess of a man where he stood.

"Fine...no mo...re Twilight stories..." he spoke slowly, the occasional twitch causing his words to be slightly broken. Fluttershy walked over to him slowly.

"Ar-Are you alright Perry?" she asked quietly. He looked over to her and gave a nod.

"Twilight will have to try harder if she wants to hurt me!" he laughed. Fluttershy smiled at him until he got up close, causing her to freeze in place as he grabbed her hands gently. "It's so wonderful to know that you care for me!" he exclaimed, chuckling at the petrified look she gave as he did this.

"Perry, quit teasin' her. You should know by now how she is," Applejack said, shaking her head. He looked over to her scratching the back of his head.

"I am sorry. It's just that it's adorable the way she becomes a statue like that," Perry said apologetically.

"I-I'm fine..." Fluttershy started to stir again. "Just...surprised...me...that's all," Twilight sighed watching them all. She let out a small smile after turning around walking away. As much as he infuriated her, Perry was still a good person, and she was glad it was him to be staying here. Looking back at Perry, still telling jokes and stories to the girls and Spike, she started to wonder about his mask, like many times before. She has never actually seen his face, no matter how hard she tried. Whenever she would ask, he would always give a different ridiculous answer that could not have happened, from the mask being super glued to his face, which could easily be fixed, to it being a mystical gift from the great mighty dragon king, granting him immortality as long as he wore it. She pondered in mental silence for the rest of the short walk, before being stopped feet from their destination.

"WE ARE HERE!" Pinkie yelled out as they arrived to Sugarcube Corner. Perry sniffed the air here and sighed happily.

"What a magnificent scent. It's a shame that the place looks closed," he said, looking through the window and seeing no lights."

"Don't worry yourself, Perry. I work here, so you can head on in," Perry nodded and headed towards the door. Twilight, noting the lack of lights and the odd dead quiet coming from the building, looked over at Spike nervously and whispered into his ear.

"Spike...you did tell her no surprise parties, right?" Spikes eyes widened, giving Twilight the answer she needed. She tried to quickly turn to Perry but he along with everyone already disappeared into the darkness. With an all too sudden flash, the darkness was drowned out by the lights quickly coming to life along with the combined screams of those hidden in it.

"SUUURRRPPRRISSSSEEEEEEE!!!!!????" the nice sized crowd yelled as Pinkies streamer cannons fired towards the group, though something was now very off. They looked around carefully, but try as they might, they could not find the guest of honor.

"Perry?" all the girls said in unison, looking around the room from him. He had just vanished from sight. The small gathering of people that were originally hiding were more confused then anyone else.

"Did we just waste the surprise?" one of them said, still looking around. Judging from the looks, the place was definitely ready for a party. Snacks punch and Pinkie even called in a favor to get DJ PON-3, aka Vinyl Scratch, to be the entertainment. How she could have possibly managed to pull that one off within the course of three hours would still be debated along with the meaning of life, and why hot dog buns came in packages of eight, while hot dogs themselves came in packages of ten. The blue haired girl, relaxing casually behind the sound system, could only smile as everyone looked around, lost and completely confused.

"Everything's ready!" she yelled from where she sat. Everyone looked over to her, and to their surprise, Perry was casually sitting on one of her speakers holding a Microphone.

"Oh you all are just too wonderful," he stated as everyone just stared at him in shock and amazement. "Well, I have two announcements to make. Number one, SURPRISE!" he yelled out.

"Perry here is one of my biggest fans..." Vinyl started. "...and the king of counter surprise parties. No joke. He has coined that one. I'll tell ya, if there is anyone out there that can possibly out party me...it's not him."

"Hey, I totally resemble that," Perry said jokingly into the mike, earning quite a few chuckles from the audience.

"But this crazy man has definitely comes close. Sorry, bro, but you will never be able to out party me. You can continue with your announcement thingie now," Vinyl said, getting everything ready.

"Secondly, Twilight. You can tell Celestia that she wins. I'll stay! Besides, trains are terribly boring," he said dully. "And for all of you, you have been a great audience so I guess an encore is in order! HIT IT DJ!" Vinyl nodded as she put on a record. Music started playing as he jumped on top of a table from the speaker, dancing energetically before starting to sing loudly.

Everyone started by watching on in total shock. Being surprised by the intended victim was definitely new. But seeing how he was getting into it, people couldn't help but start to dance as well. Twilight still stood there, mouth agape at his actions, though the rest of them didn't need an invitation to start dancing. Even Fluttershy, who was normally trying her best to not be noticed in these kind of situations, found it quite fun to dance. She was dancing in a corner away from the crowd of people, but dancing none-the-less.

Folks in the crowd started to cheer his name as he was dancing and singing on the table. Perry was getting into it and loved every minute of it. Even Spike was getting into it, slowly dancing closer to Rarity to try to dance with her, only to be knocked over by a wildly dancing blond. She apologized and helped him up. Spike couldn't help but notice her strange eyes, but she was gone into the crowd before he even had a chance to let her know it was fine.

Even Twilight, who was in a state of initial shock and awe at everything irrational happening all at one, couldn't stay away forever. She started to dance as well, enjoying the party for being a party, whether Perry had commandeered it or not.

Perry started to whip out the air guitar as he was jamming across the table and really getting into it doing all sorts of fancy moves and causing the group of people there to whistle and cheer. The song, finally coming to its finale, ended with a bang as cannons filled with confetti were shot out, showering everyone with the colorful paper. Then the silence came, giving everyone the time they needed to soak in everything they had just witnessed, and for Perry to catch his breath before retiring from the tabletop.

"Thank you Ponyville! Perry loves you all!" he yelled as he tossed the mike back to Vinyl, who simply held out her hand expectantly and caught it. He did a backflip of the table landing it perfectly. Everyone, completely blown away by the sporadic and energetic newcomer, crowded him. They were asking questions many questions which he gladly answered. Of course most of the questions about his mask went in the direction of strange and completely nonsensical, but he was having a heck of a good time today and was glad to be here.

The party finally died down after a couple of hours. Pinkie was busy cleaning up along with the help of Fluttershy. Applejack, Rainbow, and Rarity, who had to be up early to take care of job related issues, had left to go and get as much sleep as possible. Perry, having possibly enjoyed himself a bit too much, was face down on a table, groaning about too much super choco cake. The argument between him and Pinkie about there actually being a limit still up in the air, Twilight and Spike decided to simply sit with him, still chuckling about his self caused condition.

"When did you even have time to eat a half a cake, and how do you even do it?" Twilight spoke to him. "I didn't even see you take off your mask," Perry looked over to her and softly spoke.

"I have a second mouth on my stomach which I use to eat," he told them. His stomach started growling as he then and again proceeded to plant his face against the table. "So Twilight, think you can tell me where I will be staying?" he asked from his position. "Celestia told me to use some sort of private cottage, and that you knew of its location."

"The old vacation house?" she asked, making sure she wasn't wrong. He nodded, remembering that much about it. "It's a ways near the other end of Ponyville, by the Everfree Forest. Fluttershy?" She called over the pink haired girl carrying plates and cups. "Think you can take him to his place? It's that small empty cottage at the edge of the town. It should be right by your home."

"Ummm...ok...I guess," she said to Twilight. "If that isn't a problem for you, Perry."

"Not at all, Fluttershy. It would be a pleasure," Perry responded to her. She smiled and went to gather her belongings. Twilight got uncomfortably close to Perry and started whispering into his ear.

"If you even think of doing anything despicable to her, I'll do things so horrible to you that the punishment will forever be know as...getting Perryed..." she grinned almost evilly, causing Perry to shudder slightly.

"I would never even think of such a thing, lady Twilight. Your incriminating look apon me hurts," he responded honestly.

"Okay then!" she smiled sweetly again as Fluttershy reentered the room. "See you two later!" Twilight waved as Perry slowly moved up from his seat. He gathered his bags and headed towards the door. He opened it for Fluttershy, noting Twilight back at her seat slowly running a finger across her neck. If not for the mask he would have looked quite scared for his current situation. Twilight was always so nice to everyone, but when it came to Perry, she knew she could have a little fun and be a little mean. Both knew it was...mostly harmless fun, but it didn't help knowing Twilight's more wicked and sadistic side better than anyone else.

Perry followed Fluttershy out of the building, walking side by side with her as they slowly made their way to his temporary home. "So, Fluttershy, I never found out what it is that you do here," he asked as they walked. She nodded, looking over to him and starting to speak.

"Well, I take care of the animals around here, injured or lost," she told him, feeling a bit more comfortable talking about her job than most other things. It made her legitimately happy, giving even her meek personality a small sense of pride.

"Does it pay well?" Perry asked.

"Not really. I usually make my living taking care of others pets. I'm not a vet, but since Ponyville doesn't have one, the people here usually bring them to me. I'm more than happy to help, getting to make all of those cute little critters all better. It is enough to live comfortably, though sometimes those animals can also get really rowdy. I wouldn't have it any other way though!" she smiled happily towards Perry. He couldn't help but feel giddy at how happy she looked, though it was hidden by ceramic and paint.

"You know, Fluttershy, this has got to be the most I have ever heard you say," he chuckled. She blushed and looked towards the ground.

"Sorry...it's not that...well I don't like...to talk, it's just...umm..." she quietly spoke to him. He gently placed his hand on her head, causing her to freeze up again at the sudden contact.

"It's fine. I understand. In my line of work, actions tend to be more powerful than words. You're a good person, Fluttershy. Don't ever change. The world needs more people like you in it," even with his hand on her head, she managed to look towards him, her hair hiding her blush and smile. "Now let's go! Don't want to keep you out too late, Twilight would have my head," he said to her, taking his hand off her head. He started a goofy march down the road, earning a soft laugh out of his guide. She quickly followed him, though walking more normally than he was. They finally managed to make it to the cottage after about half an hour of walking and simple chit chat.

"Well, this is it..." Fluttershy told Perry as he looked over the place. It was a nice one floor cottage. A good size, but a bit bland for his tastes, which he would most likely remedy when he had the chance. "Well...I have to get home now. Have a good night, Perry," she said to him, waving and turning to make her way back home.

As Fluttershy started walking away she heard footsteps behind her. Looking over her shoulder she watched as he casually strolled behind her. After a few more steps, she stopped and turned around, causing him to stop as well. "Excuse me for asking...but why are you following me?" she asked, slightly nervous at his strange and unnecessary behavior.

"Well for starters, it would be very disrespectful of me to not walk a woman back to her house at this hour of the night. And secondly..." he thought back to Twilight, though his mental image of her consisted of her with large red horns and a small straw doll of him with pins in it. He shuddered at the thought. "...secondly, I owe you for showing me the way to my house!" he lied, not wanting to tell her the real reason and ruin her perception of one of her best friends.

"I guess it's alright. If Twilight trusts you, I can trust you as well..." she said softly as she started walking towards her house again.

It was a good ten minutes more, but after arriving, Fluttershy finally said her goodnights to Perry for the last time tonight. "Thank you very much, Perry. The story about the group of cute bunnies was adorable."

"Adorable to you...you weren't the one getting chased through the garden by a mob of angry rabbits," he laughed lightly, causing both of them to laugh. "Well, you have a good night. I am sure we will see each other later."

"You have a good night as well, and be safe walking home," she told him as she entered and closed the door. He nodded, though no one was there to see it, and started on his way back to the vacation house. The walk was uneventful and kind of boring now that there was no one to hear his tales. It didn't take him nearly as long now that he knew where he was going. He got to the door and walked inside after unlocking it. The place was a bit dusty with a few cobwebs here and there, but nothing a serious cleaning wouldn't fix. Even so, it was well furnished and more then ready to have a resident living there.

Deciding to finally crash for the night, the sugar rush from the cake wearing out quickly, he went into his new bedroom to get ready for bed. Searching throught the few boxes shipped over from the castle, he found the one with his sleepwear. He changed into the comfortable new clothes, a generally goofy looking pair of sleep pajamas, and laid down in his bed. For the final and most important touch, he took his mask off, replacing it with one that almost looked the same, but had closed eyes instead of the open ones and was made out of a softer, easier to sleep on material. He held the original mask up in front of him, just staring at it for a good ten minutes. Deep within its grinning gaze, he started to shake slightly. In almost an instant, he quickly chucked the mask at the wall, causing a small dent in the wall as the mask fell to the floor with a thud. Sighing slightly at this outburst, he quickly pulled the covers over his head and tried to catch some sleep. He couldn't put his finger on it, but something seriously bothered him, frustrating him to the point where he had felt all desire to sleep completely leave him. "It was simply going to be another sleepless night, I guess..."

The Crazy Thing About Ponyville

Chapter 5: The Crazy Thing About Ponyville

Rarity enjoyed her morning strolls through the streets of Ponyville, basking in the fresh sunlight. She wore a simple yet nice white sun dress and had on an elegant pair of purple sunglasses to match her hair. The day was looking to be rather uneventful, especially if one were to compare it to last nights party. She was still intrigued, yet slightly disgusted that any living being, Pinkie excluded, could eat that much cake. He was still quite interesting, though. A clash of gentlemanliness and immaturity into one poorly dressed package.

Her thoughts on him had ceased the moment she saw the real deal sitting on the water fountain, dressed in his usual attire. From where she could see, it had looked as if he was in deep thought. She walked up to him slowly, pondering what it was that could have his attention. The more she thought about it, the more the man seemed straight out of a mystery novel. That mask. Subtle, yet on the creepier side with its eternal smile and blank stare. What were the emotions displayed underneath that mask? What secrets would removing it unlock? She got closer to her subject and looked to him closely, seeing him still in his boundlessly deep thought. She softly called out his name.

"Perry?" there was no response. "Perry, are you alright?" she tried again to get his attention, concerned for the newcomers own well being. As she moved closer to him, she discovered the horrifying truth to the situation. "He's...sleeping..." she said to herself, mildly annoyed. She heard his light snores coming from behind the mask, confirming her sleep theory. He wasn't deep in thought. Rather, he was deep asleep. Becoming irrationally infuriated, like she was just tricked and laughed at, she pushed him into the fountain. As soon as he hit the cold water, he flailed awake quickly and started to cry out.

"The fish people have me!" it took Perry a few seconds to realize he was not actually being abducted by so called fish folk, but swimming in the town square. Finally collecting himself, he looked towards his attacker. She looked at him, failing to hide the amused smile plastered on her face. He stood up very slowly, getting himself out of the water and looking directly at Rarity. He walked over to her, Rarity backing up slightly, the smile on her face replaced with a nervous grin.

"Mr. Perry, please don't be upset. It was a dumb thing to do and I am so terribly sorry," Rarity said quickly as he continued to approach her, stepping out of the fountain. With each looming, slow paced step, he continued getting closer. Finally, when his face was just inches away from her fearful one, he spoke to her slowly.

"These...clothes...are...dry clean only!" he said to her, waving his arms around spastically as if to convey a point. "What will I do if they shrink on me?! You're a monster!" he crouched down and started to hug his knees, rocking back and forth. Rarity, nothing short of simply baffled by his behavior, stared at him. All the fear she had was replaced with confusion.

"That's...it?" she asked him looking down. "You're concerned about your clothes..." he looked up at her and nodded quickly, looking somewhat pathetic from his current state. "Well, if that is the case, I can help you out," she told him as he continued to look at her. "Come to my place. I know how to take care of them so they will not shrink. Your clothes may be committing...several crimes against fashion, but two wrongs don't make a right, as they say," he quickly jumped up and bowed to her.

"Your kindness truly is legendary. Lead the way, Lady Rarity," she only stared at him for a second more, starting to have second thoughts about having him in her house. Still, being the one who had started this and not wanting to be one to go back on her word, she started walking back towards her house, the dripping Perry following close behind.

It did not take long to make it back to her house, the Carousal Boutique. She opened the door and showed him inside. He walked in and looked around, taking in the sights offered. It was so pristine and elegant. Soft colors just flowing all around, leaving a relaxing and very at ease atmosphere within the dressmakers shop. "There is a changing room over there by the display," she told him as she handed him a spare plain white shirt and black pants. He made his way there, and quickly changed out of his wet outfit, replacing it with the new one he was given. He walked over to her and handed her the sopping clothes he was wearing. She took them meekly, not really sure if she should fix them or straight out destroy them.

"Please do what you can. They are my livelihood," he asked her softly, as if a friend was going into surgery.

Rarity sighed, coming to terms with her actions and having to make good with her word. She smiled, giving Perry a reassuring nod. "Of course. It will be about two hours, so you can read a magazine or whatever it is you do for fun...On second thought stick to the magazine," she laughed.

"I won't disrupt you or break your belongings, I promise," he told her, laughing along with her. Rarity smiled as he walked into the waiting room. With him finally gone, she released a sigh. She was not looking forward to working with such an outfit. Knowing she had no choice at this point, Rarity went into her workshop to take care of the task in front of her.

A half hour passed as Perry sat patiently, though slowly succumbing to boredom. The wait was simply mind numbing, as all those soft colors only seemed to succeed in irritating him. They were gently taunting him about his current dilemma by using their charming brightness. When he felt he could stand for no more, a saving grace appeared in the form of a young girl, probably a year or two younger than Spike. The child quickly opened the main entrance and entered the shop, Perry watching with intrigue. She wore a simple white dress, a nice match to her light purple and pink hair. Following her in were two more girls of about the same age. One of them were wearing denim overalls over a yellow tee, a pink bow holding back her red hair. The other had short magenta hair, wearing an orange tee and shorts, with two small orange wings sticking out of her back. They wandered through the waiting room blissfully unaware of his presence until crossing his path. Perry and the group of children stared at each other. He tilted his head slightly as he pondered who they were and why they were here. They stood still, nervously staring at his mask with a bit of fear in their eyes.

"Umm...who are ya?" the girl with the pink bow asked slowly after a near painful minute of silence. Perry got up, causing the young girls to back away cautiously, and took a bow.

"My name is Perry O'te. Don't be alarmed at my look. I am a humble jester to the royal castle of Canterlot," the girls, still a bit skeptical, continued to treat him with suspicion.

"What are you doing at my sisters store, then?" the one in the white dress asked. Perry began his tale, starting with his reason for being in Ponyville up to his reason for being here in the boutique, despite the lack of more masculine designs and appeals. The girls enjoyed his telling of the story, laughing at the part when Rarity pushed him into the fountain. By the end of the story they were all sitting and enjoying each others company.

"Sorry we treated ya rudely. I'm Apple Bloom," the one with the bow said to Perry. "My sister says be careful around strange folk, and you're one of the stranger I have ever seen."

"I like him!" the winged one said to him. "You're funny. I'm Scootaloo, by the way.'

"I'm Sweetie Belle!" the last one said to him as well. "I'm Rarity's little sister."

"It's a pleasure to meet all of you," he said to them. "So what brings you here today?"

"Well, we were out trying to make a kite for a school project, when a gust of wind blew ours up into a tree. We wanted to see if my sister would let us use some more materials. We tried to get it ourselves, but it's too far up."

"Why don't you have your friend fly up there to get it?" Perry asked. Scootaloo looked down sadly, Perry starting to feel like it was something that should have remained unspoken. Now feeling slightly responsible, he came to the only logical conclusion he could make. That and he was done being bored out of his mind. "Hmmm... show me this tree. I can see if I can get it for you," all three of the girls smiled happily.

"YAY!" the girls all yelled loudly. They all got up and walked to the door, Perry beginning to take a step forward before stopping; an important detail coming to mind.

"Just a minute, girls. I will tell Rarity where we are going," Perry said as he changed directions and walked towards the workshop. He noticed her hard at work on some project, most likely waiting for the clothes to finish. "Rarity, your sister, her friends, and I will be together. They need help with a project," Rarity looked over at him slightly, still working hard on what it was she was doing, but none the less focused on him.

"What happened..." she said, almost expecting this to happen.

"They got a kite stuck in a tree. Cliché, but I said I would give them my assistance."

"Good luck then," she told him. He nodded and walked out. She really wasn't saying good luck for the kite, but for handling them. If only he knew what he was in for.

"Ok, so let's lay out all the cards down on the table. You managed to get your kite stuck to the highest part of the tallest tree in the park," Perry asked, looking up the tall tree. The three girls with him nodded as they looked up with him. He then looked down towards the ground at a make shift see-saw using a large wooden plank and a rock. "Then, you were planning on launching one of you up to the top with this here," they continued to nod as he explained what he was looking at. "Not a bad plan and all, but what were you going to do once one of you were at the highest point in the tree?" Perry asked, a slight mirth in his tone. They just shrugged their shoulders as he nodded now.

"Think ya can help us, Mr. Perry?" Apple Bloom asked quietly. "We work real hard on it and makin' a new one would not make it the same," Perry gently placed his hand on her head and ruffled her hair.

"The last thing I would do is let down my audience. Don't worry. Just sit back and enjoy," he started to stretch himself out as he looked up the tall tree. The girls stared awkwardly at him as he bent into shapes a normal person shouldn't. It just didn't seem natural.

Finally feeling limber and ready, he quickly jumped into the tree and started to climb it, and quickly, almost like a monkey. The girls watched on in awe, wondering what made him so quick at the task. In not even a minute he was at the top gently untangling the kite from the tree so it wouldn't become damaged. As soon as he was done, he quickly made his way down with the kite under his arm. Even one handed now, he still managed the same skill as before, moving down the tree from branch to branch like it was second nature. He landed in front of the girls and handed them their kite.

"Wow...where did you learn to do that!?" they asked him quickly. He chuckled as he got down to their level.

"I was raised by monkeys in the wilderness. They taught me everything I know, from eating bugs to climbing trees," he got up imitating a monkey himself. "I am Monkeyman!" he yelled out, imitating a poorly done monkey wail as he bounced around. The girls only stared at him questioningly.

"Really...monkeys...that's the best you got?" Scootaloo said. "I have heard way better."

"Alien?" he said meekly.

"Nope," she still held her unamused stance.

"Man made abomination!" he exclaimed.

Scootaloo stared at Perry, shaking her head in disappointment. "Heard better from cheap sci fi books."

"Fine, I can see my ability to deceive you has failed me, so I shall reveal the truth," Perry took in a deep breath, preparing himself for the tale. "When I was younger, I was always on the smaller side. So when getting chased by bullies, I learned to hide in trees where they wouldn't find me. Eventually the bullies stopped..." Perry took another breath before continuing. "...but the important thing is what I gained and how I grew from the experience. Oh how the world was easier back then..." he told them. They only nodded silently, noting the sadness in his voice. "Now, I have to get back to the shop and get my actual clothes. Rarity's going to have a fit when she sees what I have done to these," he said, returning to his brighter and more fun pitch.

"Bye, Mr. Perry. Take care, and thanks again!" Apple Bloom said as she waved goodbye.

"Yeah, take it easy!" Scootaloo joined in.

"Don't be a stranger," Sweetie Belle finished, all of them waving goodbye now. Perry waved back as he walked away. They seemed like a handful, but they were good kids. Overall the whole mess today had been worth it, as he had fun with them.

"Rarity, I have returned successful with my task," Perry said proudly as he entered the boutique. Rarity walked out of her workshop holding two hangers, only to stare at the mess he currently was. The nice shirt was now covered in green and brown stains, and his pants were a light dusty black color now, also having the occasional green splotch. "Sorry about the clothes, I had to climb a tree to help them out, but in the end the smiling faces of children are worth more than anything else...right...right?" he started to get nervous at her lack or reaction, and the slight eye twitch she was developing. Finally, she took a deep breath and started to speak.

"Yes... I suppose it is," she smiled. "Why don't you head on into the changing room so I can clean those up," Perry took the clothes and moved towards the changing room quickly, not wanting to make her any more angry. He walked into the room and started to get changed, not wishing to keep her waiting. After a few minutes, Rarity knocked on the door. "Can you hand me the clothes so I can get started on cleaning them?"

The door opened to a stunning sight for the designer. He stood there, wearing only his pants, as he handed her the clothes. She was simply shocked at the marvelous sight she was beholding. While clothed, Perry didn't look like much. He was tall, but it didn't look like he had any real features. But now that she can see him, he was completely built. Not like a muscle builder who likes to bulge out disgustingly, but all the essential muscles could easily be seen on his smaller frame.

"Rarity? Oh Rarity!" Perry spoke up, causing her to jump slightly, blushing as she looked at him. He chuckled, observing her reaction. "You act as if you never seen a man without his shirt."

"Oh my, I am sorry for staring, ummm I'll just..." without finishing her sentence, she quickly grabbed the clothes and shut the door. Letting out an amused laugh, he pulled his shirt on and walked out of the room. She was already occupying her mind with another job and acting like she didn't see him leaving.

"Thank you again, Rarity. I'll shall take my leave now, so you have a wonderful day!" he walked out the door, still lightly giggling at the blushing woman acting as if she didn't see him exit.

The day was getting late. Perry spent the rest of the time exploring his new surroundings, being fairly uneventful for Perry. He stopped by Sugarcube Corner, and got directions to Twilight's from Pinkie, as well as a few snacks for them. He laughed as the Cakes and Pinkie watched intently as he slid his mask forwards, only slightly, to fit a cupcake he purchased for himself into his mouth, still not revealing his face. He then made his way out and to Twilight's house where he spent most of the day catching up about recent events with her and Spike. It was a great time being able to hear all the progress the formerly antisocial girl was making since her time spent in Ponyville. He even only managing to get electrocuted once throughout the whole visit. It was definitely his fault, as he knew better than to tease her about her bookish obsession.

The day had become night before anyone even noticed, and it was time for Perry to take his leave. "What a nice group of friends Twily has," Perry said to himself quietly as he left Twilight's library. They had been through quite a bit, though some events he already knew before she even told him. Discords return was a hard one to ignore after all.

Making his way home, it was close to eleven at night. Originally it was a fairly quiet and uneventful walk, at least until he walked across something he rather wish he hadn't. A group of three young men were surrounding someone in an alleyway corner. They were laughing like fools and spouting profanities towards their intended victim. "Even places like this have trash..." he said out loud as he walked by, not really caring.

He didn't plan on doing anything. It wasn't his problem and he did promise to be on his best behavior while he stayed here in town. The situation quickly changed, for the worst, when he heard the cries of the victim. He cursed his rotten luck, recognizing the voice of a familiar young woman he had recently gotten to know. Being still fresh in his mind from the night before, and it being unmistakable for anyone that knew her, he reluctantly stopped his departure. He knew that not getting involved was completely unavoidable at this point.

"Help me...please..." Perry heard her cry out again. He could tell that the woman was absolutely terrified from the shaking in her voice. He turned around and looked down the alley once more. His hidden eyes rested on the scene of a terrified Fluttershy being harassed by these men, all of whom looked unsavory to be around at their best.

"You silly girl. No one would be stupid enough to help ya. So why don't you just shut up, and I will bet you will enjoy our...company" one of the men laughed, speech slightly slurred from what was most likely alcohol. Perry clenched a fist slowly and took a deep breath.

"Maintain control. Don't do anything unnecessary. Just make them leave..." he told himself repeatedly as he walked down the alley. "Excuse me, gentleman?" Perry said loudly to grab the group's attention. "I do believe this nice young lady doesn't care for your company," the group turned around and looked at Perry like he was the biggest idiot ever. "I will take care of her, so you should all go home, drink some water, and really think about what you are doing and reevaluate your lives. Maybe once this is over, I can even treat you all to a nice drink. What do you say?" he asked the group calmly. They looked at each other and started to laugh at his feeble attempts to get them to stop.

"Really?! Are you retarded?" the one that was speaking before asked Perry. It seemed like he was the ringleader here and responsible for causing the trouble. He walked up, acting tough as he roughly pushed Perry away. He fell down, laying there for a few seconds before getting up slowly. "Go away creep, before we have to bust you up worse than what you must already look like."

"I am sorry, but I can not do that," Perry said, brushing himself off. "The woman you are harassing is a good friend of mine, so it is my duty to see her home safely," Perry told him, trying to remain as calm as possible. It wasn't easy, and he could feel his emotions starting to boil as he continued to get more frustrated with the man's arrogance. The leader decided it would be a good idea now to take out a knife, about six inches long, and swing it in front of Perry in a crude attempt to frighten him. Perry didn't want to do this, nor did he want to let it bother him. He was rarely bothered by idiots like this, but for some reason, whatever it was, the way they were treating her had proceeded to piss him off to new levels. He sighed as he cracked his neck. "Fluttershy, If you could do me a favor and close your eyes and cover your ears, I would most appreciate it," he asked the shaking girl in the corner. She did as she was told, hiding behind her tightly clenched eyes, hands tightly pressed against her head, not daring to look.

She was afraid for Perry, as these men were known troublemakers. She wanted to tell him to be careful, but nothing she wanted to say would even come close to leaving her lips. She was simply too frightened to tell him anything at this point. Even covering her ears, she could hear the slight sounds of a commotion. Repeating his words in her head, she refused open her eyes. She waited for something to happen, not even sure how much time had been passing by, hoping that the next time she would open her eyes Perry would be there. Finally, after a minute, or maybe an hour, she was picked up gently. She froze, unable to move, as it could have easily been one of them. "It's ok to open your eyes now, Fluttershy," a familiar voice spoke close to her ear just loud enough for her to hear. She did as she was told, opening them slowly to see that mask staring her in the face. The normally scary image came to her like a blessing, filling her with an untold amount of relief. He was already walking away from the alley, carefully carrying her back towards her home. "They won't bother you again. I promise," he told her reassuringly. She started to cry, putting her face into his shirt. She began letting all the emotions from the intense and terrifying scene flow out. Perry remained quiet, letting her have her deserved moment of peace.

She was asleep by the time Perry got back to her cottage. He opened the door and stepped inside, setting her down on the couch. He noticed a small shivering white ball on there as well. It looked up at him, eyes looking red and nose runny. "You must be Angel. Fluttershy told me about you," Fluttershy started to stir as she heard the talking.

"P...Perry?" she asked slowly. He turned towards her and nodded.

"Don't worry. You're safe at home now. What were you thinking heading out this late at night?" he asked, concerned. She looked down towards the ground, sniffling.

"Angel was getting sick...and I didn't want him...to suffer...so I went to get some medicine..." she was still shaking slightly, having a hard time speaking. "I was on my way back to the store when those men...they told me that an injured animal was seen in the alley there, so I went to help. I knew they were troublemakers, but...and...well..." she burst into tears again. Perry got down on his knees and softly hugged her.

"Shh...It's ok, you're safe now and that's all that matters. They won't bother you again. You're safe at home now," he told her, still hugging her.

"The medicine. It's in my handbag..." she told him. He handed it to her, letting her go as she gave the small animal one of the tablets. He heard how rebellious it was so he was shocked to see it eat it without a second thought. It must have known that it would help and just wanted to feel better.

"I must be going now. It's..." he started but was quickly interrupted.

"No!" Fluttershy cried out. She quickly covered her mouth, shaking her head quickly. Perry stood there patiently. waiting for her to speak again. She took a breath in, looking at him nervously. "...please...stay a little longer," she asked him, tears still in her eyes. He didn't want to be around her right now, but something in the way that she spoke told him to give in to her request.

"All right," Perry said, shrugging in defeat. "I'll stay here then. I just have to write a letter to a friend back in Canterlot first. Do you have any paper I can use?" he asked. She pointed to a desk with a quill and parchment. Walking over and picking up the quill, he quickly started writing out a letter. "...aaaaand done," he placed the quill down and rolled the letter up. "I will be right back. I just have to get this sent out," she nodded and watched him walk outside. A bright flash and a minute later, he walked back in and sat down next to her. "You can rest now. I'll stick around as long as you need me to," she smiled at him slightly as she rested her head on his chest, drifting off into a peaceful sleep.

A group of darkly dressed men walked into the alley that Fluttershy was attacked in. Most of them began looking around while one kept watch. They lifted up a few trash bags, not surprised to find the contents hidden under them. "Here it is," he told the others, moving the bags to find the corpse of the man from earlier, his head completely twisted backwards. "At least he had the sense to not make a mess this time."

A small pop could be heard from within the alley, as out of nowhere a woman in a shimmering blue gown appeared in front of the men. She folded in her dark blue wings, looking over the scene holding a letter in her hands. She sighed at the sight, knowing that it would have been unavoidable. She rather hoped the one responsible would not have done so to begin with, but was somewhat relieved that it had at least been in defense of another. Feeling around the air with her magic, she could sense the hostile emotions from both parties, though somewhat startled by the lack of a certain emotion that she normally detected from this fight's victor. She looked over the letter again, double checking it.

Dear Princess Luna,

An unfortunate incident occured earlier tonight, in which I was threatened with deadly force by another individual while trying to protect the Element of Kindness. I kept the casualties to a minimum, and using restrain, alternative means were taken to prevent the others from identifying me. They won't cause anyone more trouble to Ponyville, as I hear they have. I have deemed it necessary to ask for a clean up crew for this incident, as I wish to not startle the citizens of Ponyville with something unnecessary. The address is below the letter, so please make haste. As per the arrangement, I declare my one freebie used and will try not to cause any trouble for you and your staff again until I return from my vacation. I believe this incident to be a fluke anyhow, as the residents here are generally quite nice. Thank you for your immediate action, and I hope I haven't ruined your night.

Sincerely

Pierrot.

The Crazy Thing About Perry

Chapter 6: The Crazy Thing About Perry

The lunar princess was pacing back and forth inside her room. She needed to have a talk with her sister and let her know of what was going on, but Celestia insisted that they speak in private. Being made to wait, being told to talk away from prying eyes, Luna was nervous. Probably more than she has ever been. Though Celestia trusted that wretch of a man, she never really could. To her, he was a maniac hiding behind the mask of a fool. Her thoughts were quickly turned towards the door as she watched it open. Celestia walked in slowly and closed the door behind her. Waving her hand she masterfully enchanted the door. Luna watched as she repeated this with the windows and even the air vent in her room. Needless to say, this did not make her feel any better.

"Ok, Luna, we are free to talk without prying eyes and ears," Celestia told her nervous sister. Luna walked over to her sister, still clenching the letter sent to her during the night.

"Why in all that is good does it have to be him? Couldn't we have sent another for this task?" Luna asked with a bit of anger and confusion in her voice.

"I am afraid not. Things are grim right now, and he is gaining power quickly."

"Then why not let the Elements of Harmony know? Surely..."

"No!" Celestia snapped, causing Luna to flinch. Celestia sighed as she took a breath. "I am sorry Luna, it is just...a tense situation for us all. I will say that it still scares me to know that he is indeed spending time with them, though not for the same reasons you have. I do, however, trust him enough to watch over them. It's hard to believe, but I have seen that he truly can be a..."

"Celestia...don't you dare finish that sentence like we think you are..." it was Celestia's turn to be nervous as her sisters fiery gaze and stern voice. "You don't often take care of his messes, you never had to watch over his actions. He is a monster without remorse, and has killed and killed and killed! All without even caring about the target," Luna was crying at this point. "He is unlike any mortal we have ever seen throughout our lives. He...terrifies me. Had we not known he was loyal to us, to you, to Equestria, we would be incapable of being alone knowing that there, out in the world, all we would have to do is blink and then...that mask..." Celestia hugged her sister tightly, gently stroking her hair. She could feel her shake, trying to calm the trembling with her own body. Celestia had regretted posting Luna at her current position, but she knew in time that she would be able to handle it. Until then, all she could do was comfort her.

"Luna, shhhh. It is going to be alright," Celestia told her sister softly. "I can't argue any of what you are saying, and yes I know that his actions are deemed cruel by anyone's standards. He is more different than what you think, if you will be willing to listen to me. We, being him and I, have talked in private like this ourselves, and I have learned a great deal from him."

"How do you know he trusted you enough to tell the truth. It could easily be a ploy, an attempt to gain your trust. Is it really that easy?" Luna asked, calming down now, though her tone more stern than before.

"I know, because I am one of the few people in Equestria he trusts enough to show his face to..." she looked down. "He asked me to not say anything about what lies behind the mask, but everything else I feel you have the right to know," Luna was wide eyed with shock. She has never heard of him removing that cursed thing in front of others. Celestia has seen this reaction and took it as a sign to continue. "He is evil, getting that said and done. He doesn't deny it, and he doesn't think he should change, but he isn't, at the same time, a bad person," Luna looked at her sister, she was confused at that statement.

"How can you be evil, but not a bad person?" Luna asked, puzzled.

"I know...It still confuses me sometimes, but hearing it from him, it does explain quite a bit. He has never used excessive force unless provoked or he deemed it necessary. He has never once treated anyone badly that didn't deserve it. He loves children, and generally loves to make people laugh. Yet, despite his outward nature, will take out his targets without mercy, never caring for any individual as a whole. He is evil, but evil for the sake of doing what good cannot. He knows this and understands himself and his place. Try as he may, he cannot understand what it means to care. Even towards family and friends, his actions are a shallow act. He often feels bound by duty, but how he performs it is his own desire," Celestia finished her explanation on how she viewed him, hoping to give Luna more insight towards where he stood in all of this.

"He has protected me from danger on many occasions..." Celestia stated, giving Luna a more personal account of her interactions with the man. "...and each time, he could take out a would be assassin in the middle of a party and not even draw attention to the act, as well as targets on visiting foreign diplomats, where opposing groups try to start a conflict, he can stop it from ever being a thought. He does have the capacity for restraint, and will gladly use it in order to keep Equestria safe."

Luna listened in paitently, grasping what her sister was saying very carefully.

"One incident..." Celestia continued. "...we visited the Griffin Empire for diplomatic talks. He had heard word from the underworld grapevine that Prime Ambassador Gruff was going to be a target, in order to start a political coop, so he insisted on coming along. We were dining, just about to have dessert. Now this happened too fast for even me to see, so this is from here on out his retelling. He noticed an archer from outside the window, getting up slowly he proceeded to give a show for a light after dinner laugh, as he called it. As the archer fired the bow, he made it look like he tripped and fell onto the table, where in reality, he caught the arrow as it slid up his sleeve, with the only victim being the ambassador's cake. His actions that day, left the attack unnoticed and the talks that day were a success. He then excused himself, noting the archer's escape. He used the arrow to track him, and well, your clean up crew knows the rest. Though he is willing to practice restraint, he surely won't if he doesn't have to. You probably shouldn't ask the crew about the details, but they can verify the story," Luna had sat down by now trying to get a complete grasp of the situation. Her sister was right, and she knew that now.

"Celestia, we knew that he was that dedicated towards us, but still, he's..." she started. "It's still a bit overwhelming, but we understand why you do trust him a bit more now," Celestia nodded as her sister spoke. "If anyone can protect those girls without them knowing they are in danger, it can be him, right?" Celestia nodded smiled as her sister finally understood her feelings. "But what if he has to make himself known to them? To the town? We seen what he did there earlier tonight... It isn't like his usual work," Celestia looked over at her sister.

"What do you mean Luna?"

"He took care to make it quick as so Miss Fluttershy didn't have to witness it herself. showing the restraint you had spoken about. Still, it seemed that his actions were done out of anger. We could feel it from the air around and from the wounds inflicted. Even with restraint, I have never felt so much from him. What if he can't keep his emotions in check?"

"I couldn't tell you, Luna, but it might actually be a good sign," Celestia told her reassuringly. "It shows that he just might have a chance to truly understand what it means to care about others, despite my initial thoughts. I have noticed that he does treats Twilight with a good amount of respect and kindness, which I have always believed to stem from the good parts of him. The ones he doesn't even realize he has. I will have to keep watch, but as well as protecting them, I had also hoped that interacting with them would help him regain what was lost to him all those years ago," Celestia said, crossing her arms and grinning in a feeling of self satisfaction.

"You act like a child sometimes, Tia, but you are a lot more clever than I take you for," Luna said, now confident in Celestia's decision.

"I thank you for your...wait...what do you mean I act like a child. I'm a perfectly mature responsible adult!" she scoffed at Luna, making her best fake frowning face.

"You often forget to remove the thrown quills from your ceiling," Luna said slyly.

"Well... you wear to much blue!" Celestia responded, Luna laughing happily at her antics. Celestia joined in along side her for a good few minutes. Celestia started walking towards the door, quickly stopped by Luna calling for her.

"Tia, you truly trust him, right?" she asked one last time.

"If good people can do bad things for the wrong reason, I don't see why an evil man can't do the opposite." Luna nodded at this response as Celestia dispelled the enchantments with a wave of her hand and walked away. I am glad that I have gotten to him before anyone else, though. She thought to herself. Even I would be terrified if I knew he might be coming for me.

Perry had not slept much that night. He spent a good deal of time deep in his own thoughts. Whenever he killed someone he always felt happy, alive. He enjoyed the look of terror, knowing that the last thing they saw was that masks grin as it dragged them into the bowels of the underworld to forever lament their sins. He knew, one day, he too would be dragged there, and he did not care. No, this was different though, he wasn't happy at all with this, he did not enjoy it. Each time he thought of the situation it made him angry. He has not killed in anger since his first. He didn't wish to dwell on the past too much, but it had almost seemed as it was trying to force itself back up. He looked outside, the sun starting to rise from the window, the start of the new day. The night team they usually dispatched to clean up his messes were usually very good at what they did. He knew they would take away body and hide the mans accomplishes in a dark dungeon to forever lament having ever crossed him.

He looked over to the peaceful woman now, sleeping against him. She was kind, gentle, and loved life. She was everything he hated, but even so he could not find himself able to hate her. There was something in her gaze, in her speech, that made him do what he did yesterday. The long night picking at his mind, he just couldn't grasp the thought of a joyless kill. Even now, playing the evening through his head, he did not believe he would have done it differently. As he sat here she started to stir slightly, and began opening her eyes. She looked around, a combination of a drowsy stare and confusion at her location. He watched as she made an attempt to fluff him like a pillow, not realizing that he was still there with her. She looked up at him slowly now, her eyes getting wider and a deep blush forming. She quickly pushed herself off of him.

"Oh...my I'm sorry really... I umm...what....here..." he watched as she could not make a coherent sentence to her. He chuckled quietly as she sat there, trying to figure out what exactly to say. She finally remembered why he was there, calming down enough to start speaking again. "Thank you, Perry."

"No need, Fluttershy. I only did what any decent person would do for another," he softly told her as he stretched himself out.

"No...You were there for me, even though you didn't have to be..." she told him looking into his eyes. "You're a hero..." that comment almost pierced Perry like a knife. Remaining silent, he stared at her, trying to keep himself from snapping at her for her innocent remark. "Thank-" she started to speak again, but he got up and walked to the door. She watched curiously as he opened it and started to leave. Before he did, he turned around and spoke quietly. The words he had said before he left could only linger in her mind, leaving her in a daze. A small bunny started to hop towards her, obviously the one from the night before, nose and eyes cleared up. It hopped on the couch and pointed to the kitchen, but stopped as he started to stare into her eyes. They were lost in emotions and thought, oblivious to the small creatures actions. She didn't know what she did wrong, and felt as if everything was crashing down on her.

Don't ever think you know me well enough to call me that.

The Crazy Thing About Rainy Days

Chapter 7: The Crazy Thing About Rainy Days

"The sky started to grow dark, fitting for the mood..." Perry told himself, walking through the streets. The weather team said all the sunny days have started to have a negative effect on the crops, so a good downpour would be needed. The darkening noon sun gave Perry one final chance to find shelter from what would be coming, and he took advantage of it, heading to a small bar he heard about from Rainbow when he first arrived. It was a nice quiet place to relax after a hard day at work, and lack of sleep included, Perry's day was anything but easy. He entered and sat down at the bar, the bartender giving a small nod as he walked on over to him. He was a stocky man, middle aged, losing hair and sporting a handle bar mustache. His clothes were basic, a black shirt with matching pants.

"What can I get for you today?" he asked politely, trying not to stare at Perrys face.

"Nothing hard, I don't fair to well with alcohol. It tend to impair my already poor judgment," Parry said to him quietly.

"Hmm..." the Bartender poured up a quick drink, and handed it to Perry. "Today is slow, so if you would like to talk, go right ahead," he walked away, leaving Perry to his thoughts. Perry sat there, only staring into his drink. He kept replaying the events this morning, along with last night. He needed to pull himself out of this. Dwelling on these events would only bother him more. He heard stories of bartenders fixing problems, mainly from Soarin when he would be in a slump about his most recent failed confession attempt toward Spitfire. He laughed a little, remembering how the last time he almost did it at the last gala held at the castle, to only have a group of girls cause a riot, ending any kind of mood that would be set. At least he had his pie to curl up to that night.

"Barkeep!" Perry called out to the man who served him. He walked over and looked down at the drink.

"Is something wrong?" he asked, slightly annoyed.

"Not at all, though I would like a straw if you have one," he raised an eyebrow towards the masked man, handing him a soda straw to use. "Good choice, I always preferred the bendy kind."

"Is that it?" he asked as he watched Perry slip the straw under his mask and start to sip the drink.

"This is good! Anyways, is that offer to chat still available?" Perry asked him straw still stuck under the mask.

"Well, I guess it would be interesting to hear what could be troubling an interesting person like you," he said, smiling.

"Well it's hard to describe really, so let me explain it like this. What would you do if you wanted to distance yourself, but at the same time, felt as though being distant would hurt more?"

"Girl trouble?" the bartender said bluntly, giving a sly smile.

"No No, nothing of the sort...I think," Perry thought to himself. "Well a girl is involved, but the issue is mostly me here, so to speak. I feel...different since starting my stay here. I have a job that I like, and I do it well. But lately it hasn't felt the same from before. I know I still like it, and I normally couldn't be happier with it, but it just felt..."

"Like maybe you put yourself into it to much," the bartender added. Perry could only nod quickly.

"Yes! That's exactly it, I never made it personal, but recently I have, and it has confused me a bit."

"Well son, let me tell you. There is never anything wrong with putting your heart into your work, especially if you like it. I can't imagine how hard it is to be the royal jester for the princesses, but if you really care about making them happy, then there is no harm in doing your best," Perry chuckled slightly. Though he wasn't talking about that job, it does relate well. "I was at your welcoming party. Made some of the cocktails there. It looked like you enjoy yourself quite a lot. Didn't think you were even the same person walking in her all mopey."

"Yes, the weather hasn't helped either, my clothes are not the best for rain weather and getting them soaked would ruin them."

"Now you mentioned girl trouble, too?" he started up again. "You already steal some young ladies heart?" he smirked at Perry.

"No, I don't believe I fancy her like that, kind of the opposite actually."

"What do ya mean?" he started getting into the chat, taking a seat next to Perry.

"It is hard to say this without being rude to her because of what I think. She is almost my polar opposite, a truly different contrast to what I am. I honestly can't stand those qualities about her, but I can't not think about her as well."

"They do say opposites attract sometimes, but life is strange, maybe you just don't really have an understanding of what makes her unique. It's like with my wife. She loved to garden and would tend to her flowers everyday. Now I was still a strapping young lad at the time, so I was naïve. I would see her everyday during my morning jog, and could never understand why she loved those plants so much. Finally during one of those jogs I stopped to ask her. I said, 'Miss, why do you care so much about those things?' and she told me, 'It was an amazing feeling seeing the growth of life, and even more so nurturing it.' She gave me a seed to plant in a flower pot and told me that I needed to see for myself to understand. I still have old Wilfred to this day. Heck, he was even at our wedding," he smiled as he retold the beginning of his love for his wife. Perry listened to it all and it made sense. He got up and left some money on the counter.

"Thank you very much, old barkeep," he said to him happily.

"I'm not that old yet," he said back in his defense. "And why don't you remove that straw from your mask while you're at it, knucklehead," he laughed, pointing to the straw sticking out of Perry's mask. He laughed as well, pulling it out and setting it down.

"Keep this as proof of our meeting and new found understandings, kind barkeep," the bartender looked puzzled at the straw and then back to Perry.

"Your desire and passion is nice and all, but it is still raining, you know," he said to Perry, holding out an umbrella. "Keep this as proof of our meeting, and my new found reason to have to drink more," he grinned. Perry took the umbrella and gave a quick bow before leaving. The bartender went back to work, thinking about his meeting already, staring at the straw. "What a strange man..."

It was a light drizzle now, beams of light poking through the sky, as Perry made his way back to Fluttershys house. He was passing his house when he noticed something flying at him, and fast. Not fast enough, however, as he purposely dropped a bit only to bend over to pick it up, causing the blur to fly right over him. It made a small crash landing into the ground, and when it stopped, it became the clear, yet muddy form of Rainbow Dash. She got up from her impromptu landing and quickly walked over to Perry.

"Ok, bub! What the hell happened?" she quickly asked him getting up in his face.

"Well, it appears you attempted to tackle me when I dropped some bits. as I picked it up you missed and did a somewhat graceful crash landing into the ground," he said, laughing at her still mud covered form.

"That's not what I mean!" she responded, anger in her voice. "What happened with you and Fluttershy. I seen you come out of her house this morning, and now she won't talk to anyone! Now spill it!" Perry sighed, hoping to have talked to Fluttershy before anyone else.

"I don't believe it's my right to tell the entirety of the events, but I will indulge you on what I was doing. My house is right here, why don't we get out of the rain so we can talk in private," Perry told her as he unlocked his door. "Bathroom is to the left. If you plan on using the shower, I am more than willing to lend you some of my plainer clothes," she stepped in and kicked her shoes off, walking towards the bathroom, obviously still angry. Perry waited in the kitchen for about a minute as she walked out holding a muddy towel.

"Ok, I'm clean enough, start talking!" she said as he sat there.

"Strange to see a woman that isn't a total clean freak, but that's not what you want to hear," Perry said, taking the towel and cautiously throwing it into a basket, not wanting to throw away the effort Rarity put forth. "Anyways, Fluttershy had a rough time last night, so to speak, and I kept her company to make her feel better," Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow at that statement, earning a light chuckle out of Perry. "No, not that kind of company. That is not my style," she sighed in relief at hearing him say that. "As we were talking the next morning she said something that bothered me, and..." he stalled a bit at this part of the telling.

"...And what? Come on I haven't got all day!" she snapped at him. In his mind right now, it would have been much easier to kill her than it would have been to talk about his feelings openly like this. He pushed that option out of his head, as he did not believe she deserved that. Still a thought, though.

"I...said a few harsh words I regret now, and I was actually on my way over to apologize. I would tell you what I said, but it does have to do with the private ordeal, so again Fluttershy should be the one to tell you that," he said to her. She looked at him sternly for several minutes, her gaze piercing though him. Seriously, no one would find the body, but he had to take his lumps like a man, and he was at fault in this situation. She finally sighed and patted him on the shoulder.

"Ok, as long as you were going to apologize to her, I forgive you. But no funny business with her!" she said to him, poking him in the mask. "I'll be around, so just yell out. If I ain't sleeping, I'll find you," he sighed and walked to the door getting ready to leave again. He turned back around looking at her, waiting for him to move so she could get ready as well. Perry started speaking to her as he was walking out the door.

"Sorry again to trouble you. Let's go to Pinkie's later and get some fresh cupcakes. My treat," Perry said.

"Sounds good," Rainbow responded, nodding with approval. "By the way, I have an idea..."

Never has a simple door seemed so hard to pass. Perry stood in front of Fluttershys cottage, just looking at the door. He couldn't figure out why this was difficult. He took a deep breath, knocking quickly and backing up. He waited for a few seconds before the door crept open. He looked but saw no one there until he looked down staring at the small bunny from before. It stared at him menacingly before slamming the door.

"...well, that just happened," Perry told himself after the door was closed. He started knocking again, waiting for a response, but there was none. "Ok, angel, was it? I just came to apologize to her about this morning, so if you could let me in, I will repay the favor," The door remained closed, making Perry slightly irritated. A rabbit was the only obstacle between him and his target, and he refused to accept that. "Well if you want to be like that..." he set down a long box he had brought with him and started to chant.

"Ashes fall, scatter, blowing through the endless skies. From the remains, born anew to begin again, life from dust," as his body started to glow, he finished the incantation. "Ashform," his body suddenly disintegrated into a pile of ash, the remains making there way under the cracks of the door, as if guided by an unseen force. The ash started reassembling, forming the outline of a body on the inside of Fluttershys house. Angel only watched from a distance at the sight he was witnessing, obviously afraid. Finally all of the ash reformed into Perry, coughing slightly while he brushed himself off. He casually walked over to the scared bunny. "Now I consider myself a reasonable person, so I mean it when I say no hard feelings, so let this one time go and I promise you a nice carrot cake," Angel only nodded at him as he went back to the door and grabbed the box he left outside. He walked back over to Angel and crouched down sticking his mask in his face. "I would like to be friends, and friends help each other out, so if she asks, you let me in, understood?" Angel nodded and pointed up the stairs to where she was. Perry gave a slight bow towards him as he started upstairs.

Perry walked over to Fluttershys bedroom door and knocked gently. "Who...who is it?" she asked softly from behind the door.

"A fool who spoke harshly, and wishes to make amends," he responded. It took a few minutes of just standing there, but eventually Fluttershy slowly opened the door, her eyes slightly reddened as she looked at him. It looked like she was crying for some time. Perry handed her the box through the door. She slowly took it and opened it as Perry started to speak. "I am sorry for how I treated you earlier today, and I would ask for your forgiveness," he waited as she looked inside the box. "Rainbow said you liked those, so I figured it would make a nice present," she quietly stared at the simple red rose she pulled out of the box. She spent a good amount of time looking at the beautiful flower. Her eyes started to water up again. Perry, taking notice of this, started to panic. "Umm umm, please don't cry! Was it a bad gift idea, because I wanted to go with balloon animals but she said that you loved flowers and I was ..." he was interrupted as she opened the door and hugged him tightly. He stood there, shaken by the hug.

"It's beautiful. Thank you so much. I am sorry as well for what I said earlier. I didn't know that would upset you," she told him.

"It's no issue. Just me being a tired and slightly moody jerk, nothing more," he told her, returning the hug. He almost forgot why he came back here, losing himself slightly in the moment. She may have not seen it, but he was smiling underneath that mask of his. A smile that was simply because he was happy, and nothing more. She finally let him go, blushing slightly.

"It's a surprise to see that Angel let you in, actually," she was still smiling as she looked at Perry. "He tends to be rather protective of me."

"It took some convincing but we are good friends now," he told her, scratching the back of his head while he laughed lightly.

"That's good to hear. He usually doesn't warm up to strangers so easily."

"Really? It was hard to tell, actually," Perry said to her. "This doorway is getting rather cramped though, so let's talk in the kitchen. I figure the best way to make up for what I said is to tell you a bit more about myself," he said has he moved out of the way for her.

"You don't have to... I mean, if you don't want to. I am happy just knowing you're not mad at me."

"I insist! I'll even make my famous omelette surprise for you!" he said happily.

"Waters soak the world clean!" a wave of water came from the sink as a fire in the kitchen was extinguished, both Perry and Fluttershy running outside to get some air. Both of them coughing, Perry looked over sheepishly at Fluttershy. She looked back at him with concern in her eyes. Looking around at the mess he caused, he let out a nervous little chuckle. "Surprise?"

The Crazy Thing About Kindness

Chapter 8: The Crazy Thing About Kindness

"Listen, Fluttershy, I insist."

"Oh no... I couldn't let you do it."

"Please, Fluttershy? It would mean so much to me."

"I guess... if it's you..."

"Thank you! You won't regret it. Especially since I almost burnt down your kitchen."

Inside Sugarcube Corner, Fluttershy and Perry met up with Rainbow Dash for a nice snack. Perry having won the battle of who would pay, they sat down with the rainbow haired girl, each with an oversized cupcake.

"I am glad that you're better, Flutters. You had me worried when you didn't answer the door," Rainbow took a bite of her cupcake after she spoke.

"I am sorry I worried you," Fluttershy said to Rainbow. Perry shoved his cupcake into his mouth, moving his mask out of the way only slightly, taking advantage of their conversation. Being a bit bigger than normal, he had some difficulty, but not enough to cause him problems.

"It's cool. Dumbbell here told me that you had some problems last night," Fluttershy nodded slightly to answer her friends question. "So, what happened?" Rainbow asked Fluttershy, causing her to look down towards her uneaten cupcake. "Hey listen. It's alright if you don't want to tell me now."

"No...it's fine. I am better today," Fluttershy, after taking a few deep breaths to calm herself as she went through what happened the night before, gave her best retelling of what occurred. Rainbow's face went from concern, to anger, to relief as she got to the end of last night. After the story, she turned to Perry and looked him over for a second. He tilted his head slightly in confusion.

"So...you not only saved Fluttershy here, but you single handedly kicked those jerks to the curb..." Rainbow said with a hint of skepticism in her voice. Perry nodded plainly, not really willing to go into detail on what happened. "Fine then. Let's see if you can handle me," she said with a cocky attitude and a grin on her face.

"Nope," he bluntly responded. "Pinkie, can I get another cupcake?"

"No way, pal. Not until I see for myself if you're really that tough," Rainbow said as she got up. "You manage to take me down, the chows on me," she said confidently. It wasn't that she wanted to fight, but Perry was just tired from lack of sleep, and fairly cranky.

"Rainbow, please don't," Fluttershy asked quietly as she looked on in concern.

"Don't worry, Fluttershy. I don't want to anyways," Perry said as Pinkie walked over with another cupcake. She looked at the two and smiled.

"Rainbow here is a black belt at karate. She is really good," Pinkie said quickly. "She is all BAM POW and KERSPLAT!!!" she yelled out the sound effects, doing punches and kicks as she did.

"I don't mean to brag, but yeah. I am pretty awesome," Rainbow said, still giving out a cocky smile. "So, Perry, don't be a chicken. Let me see what you got. It will be fun. Come on!" Fluttershy watched with concern as Perry got up, second cupcake already gone.

"Perry, you don't have to do this," Fluttershy said nervously. Perry took out the bits and set them on the table.

"I'm not. I have to go to the bathroom," he chuckled as he looked at the concerned girl. The obvious attempts to ignore Rainbow now were no doubt getting her riled up. In her frustration, she threw a quick left jab at the back of Perry's head. In an instant, he was down on the ground and just laying there. Fluttershy got up quickly and went over to him.

"Rainbow, that wasn't fair! He didn't see it coming," she said, helping Perry up.

"No, she got me fair and square. I admit defeat," he said as he walked to the bathroom, dusting himself off.

"Rainbow no need to be... Rainbow?" Fluttershy's voice went from being upset to concerned as Rainbow stood there, her arms shaking. "Are you ok, Rainbow?"

"... I'm fine, Flutters. I'll see you later. Tell Perry I said sorry when he gets out," Rainbow made a quick exit as Pinkie and Fluttershy watched her leave.

"She is probably upset that she did that, Fluttershy. Don't worry, though! Perry doesn't seem upset, so it should be alright!" Pinkie said reassuringly. Rainbow was easily prone to making rash decisions, as anyone would agree. Even Fluttershy knew that Rainbow had a tendency to act before thinking, even if she means well.

"I hope so, Pinkie. I wouldn't want Perry and Rainbow to hate each other."

Finally out of the view of everyone else, Rainbow ran quickly towards the alley closest to her and crept down, shaking rapidly. "That's...that's not possible..." she said over and over. She looked at her fist, not a bit roughed up. She never made contact with him at all, even if she wasn't actually trying to hurt him. The attack didn't even graze him, yet he waited. He waited until the last millisecond, making it look like she made contact, and threw himself to the ground like he had been punched. Not only did he refuse to fight her, but he took a fall. "...That bastard...how weak does he think I am!" she yelled. "Don't look down on me..." she cried more softly.

Perry walked Fluttershy home, saying goodnight as she walked inside her house. He was exhausted, going two days without sleep granted. He couldn't wait to get to bed. Making his way over to his house, he was stopped by someone on the road. The figured move in closer, revealing a very pissed off looking Rainbow Dash.

"YOU! HOW DARE YOU!" she yelled as she made her way over to him. She got right up in Perry's face. "You...you made me look like a fool! Don't you ever look down on me! I am Rainbow Dash!" she was on the verge of tears now. Perry just stood there silently. "I don't want you going easy on me! Fight me for real!"

"Dash, listen to me. I meant you no disrespect, but I really just don't want to fight you...I am tired and just want to go home and sleep now. Please let me be, and I will gladly have a friendly sparring match with you when we are both more focused," Perry said to Rainbow. She clenched her fist tightly, glaring at him. He tried to walk past her, but she made her best effort to block his path.

"Don't even think of it!" she continued to stand in Perry's way.

"Rainbow, you're tired and you're letting your emotions get the best of you. Just let it go...seriously," Perry told her with a stern voice. "I don't fight to prove a point...and neither should you."

"Damn you... DAMN YOU!" she shouted as she started throwing punches at him. He backed up, avoiding them quickly.

"Rainbow, calm down!" Perry yelled at her, starting to get upset as well. "I'm too tired for this!" she only continued yelling and attacking. Perry could keep this up, but with his lack of sleep impairing his judgment, he began to lose self control. He didn't want this to continue any more so he caught her next punch.

Rainbow gasped as Perry started squeezing, slowly crushing her hand in his. Trying her hardest to remove her hand from his grip, she could only cry out in pain as he started laughing. It was not his usual laugh, but a sick maniacal laugh belonging to a mad man. "Well, Rainbow. Are you happy now, because I feel so much better!" he continued to squeeze, long after she was on her knees.

"Please... stop...my hand..." she cried out. Tears were flowing down her face, but Perry only watched with a sick glee. Her hand was at the breaking point, the petrifying pain keeping her from being able to do anything besides beg.

"What's the matter, Rainbow? I thought this is what you wanted! To protect that pride of yours. Well, now you can keep your oh so precious pride. That sounds good right. Congratulations! You got me to play with you, just...like...you...wanted!" Perry spoke the last four words one at a time, in an almost teasing tone. "But, I think I will take your hand as a prize for myself. You only need one, so now we both win!" he said happily. She looked at him with pleading eyes as he stared at her, ready to finish this. Something inside him started to stir, watching Rainbow begging for forgiveness. The tears staining her face as he continued to grind down her knuckles in his vice grip. He let her hand go as she backed away from him quickly at a crawl. He walked over to her, calming down himself now, as his blood stopped racing. He bent over her and started to speak. "I... I'm sorry..."

The injured woman quickly yelled at him, tears still flowing down her face."What the hell is wrong with you!?" she held her injured hand close to her, scooting farther away from him. "What the hell are you?!" Perry remained silent for what could have been hours, though only seconds had actually passed. He paced around, trying to get his thoughts back together while finding a way to calm down the woman panicking in front of him. Finally he stopped, and took a deep breath to be able to say what needed to be said.

"I am complicated. That's all you need to know..." he spoke to her softly. Rainbow listened intently, still caressing her hand. "I can't ask you to forgive me for what I have done, but please don't speak of this," Perry mentally scolded himself. If he wanted to come off as a nut job, that was the right way to go. "I don't normally do this, but between your unexpected assult and my lack of sleep, I just lost it."

Perry looked at her tear stricken face, not filled with fear or anger anymore, but more of confusion and just a hint of understanding. Sure, he didn't have to go crazy and try to break her. Had she realized how stressed he actually was, she would have backed off. Thinking about it more and more, forcing him into a corner the way that she did, he really was only acting in self defense.

"I...I am also sorry..." she got up slowly, stretching out her hand. "You didn't break anything, so... it's all good," she walked over to him slowly, still timid as she watched him carefully. "I shouldn't have attacked you like I did, so let's make a deal. This remains between us, ok?" Perry nodded and looked at her. She kept up a strong face right now, but she was still scared of Perry, and that didn't settle well with him. "One thing that's bothering me right now," Rainbow started. "... Why did you stop... you were serious with what you said back there...you really...were going to..."

"A wise barkeep said something to me earlier today, and I felt I needed to take his words into consideration and try sowing the seed to understand why it made her happy..." he said to Rainbow. She only looked puzzled at him, and started to laugh slightly.

"You are freaking strange, no getting around that," she took a deep breath now, trying to calm herself down as well. "It will be hard, but this will go away sooner or later. I still consider you a friend, but I need some time to myself," she pointed at him, glaring intently. "But get this, you ever hurt Fluttershy, you will wish you took off my hand!" Perry nodded to her.

"Rainbow, I would never even dream of it," Rainbow smiled lightly. "In a way..." he said as he started walking away. "...she saved you tonight..." he waved to Rainbow, not looking back.

After the short walk to the house, Perry finally made his way to his bed. The day had been long. Way too long. Too much happening, too much to regret, too much to think about. He truly wanted to understand what made that girl unique. Showing compassion towards Rainbow Dash showed him a side he didn't think he had. It felt good, even though he shouldn't have done what he did in the first place. He never fought unless provoked, because when he fought, someone died. That was his life style and he did accept it. He also could accept now, that all fights didn't have to end in bloodshed if he really wanted. As he laid there, he didn't bother to change into his sleep apparel, he just fell onto the bed and crashed where he laid. He quickly fell into a nice slumber, finally letting the long needed sleep take him over.

It was a new day! The sun was shining, the birds were chirping, and the door was being hit repeatedly. Perry especially disliked that last one, getting him up from his slumber. He went to the door and opened it slowly, staring into the eyes of a blond haired woman he had met during his initial arrival, but hadn't seen since.

"Applejack, was it?" he started. "Do you have any idea what time it is?" she looked at him, a bit puzzled.

"Umm, I reckon it be a bit after one," she said to him.

"Oh...pardon my rudeness then. I overslept today, and I am slightly out of it," Perry laughed slightly. He was in at the very least a better mood than the night before. "So what can I do for you?" he asked Applejack.

"Well, I was wonderin' if you'd be willin' to lend a hand. Me an' my brother Big Mac are a..."

"Big Mac?" Perry asked, holding back a chuckle.

"It's a nick name. His whole name is Macintosh, but everyone 'ere calls him Big Mac. Anyway, we were asking our friends about helpin us out, we already got Rainbow an' Spike, and was hopin' for one more strong fella. The others are busy, but Rarity said you might be good for the job."

"Hmm, I have been feeling a tad out of shape. Let me freshen up before I leave. No need to stand in the door, come in," he walked back into the house, Applejack following shortly after.

"Mighty nice place you have here. Small, but the cozy kind," Applejack said looking around. He nodded in agreement, going into the kitchen and grabbing a small bottle of juice. He grabbed a straw and stuck it in, sipping as he walked into the bathroom. He walked out a few minutes later, hair less of a mess and a fresh set of cloths on, though exactly the same style. "You seriously have more than one of them flashy shirts?" Applejack asked. He nodded and pointed to a closet in the hall. She went and opened it, finding about twenty of them in there. "If you had so many of them, why the heck did ya make such a huge fuss to Rarity the other day?"

"Because I thought it would be funny. Besides, I didn't lie about the dry clean part, but I might of pushed the truth about caring. It was worth it in the long run," he said in his usual tone, with hints of laughter at the end. She just looked at him and shook her head.

"Whatever, I suppose no harm done," she started towards the door, Perry following quickly. They both made their way to the farm, just having light conversations about simple things, mainly her family and how he should act around them. Applejack wasn't into jokes as much as the others, so Perry figured most of his stories would be wasted on the straightforward woman. It was a shame, too, as he had a good one about a farmer and a ravenous goat.

The farm was much bigger than Perry thought it would be. Still, he could use a workout and if he kept on going without, all the cupcakes would catch up to him. In his head he cursed Pinkie for her deliciously devilish desserts. They met up with the group, who were apparently waiting for them. Spike and Rainbow said hi to Perry and Applejack, sitting up since break time was most likely over. Rainbow still acting a bit sheepish towards Perry, as it was understandable. He wasn't going to fault her for avoiding him after what happened last night.

Taking a look at everyone else, Perry's gaze rested over the large blond man wearing a red flannel shirt. It had an apple design on it, the same design printed on the side of his worn out blue jeans. He stood almost a full foot taller than Applejack, and just a bit more than Perry. He would have been intimidating had it not been for his smile and the piece of hay hanging from his mouth.

"This everyone?" Big Mac asked, looking at the group.

"Yup! With all of us working together, we should be done before nightfall," Applejack said to her brother. Perry walked up to Big Mac and held out his hand.

"Pleasure to meet you, Big Mac. My name is Perry O'te, but please just call me Perry."

"Nice to meet ya, too," Big Mac took Perrys hand and shook it, giving a surprised look towards him. "Pa always told me you could tell the quality of a man by the grip of his handshake."

"Your father sounds very wise indeed," Perry said to Big Mac. "But enough talk! Apples won't pick themselves, right. Not that it wouldn't be interesting to see, but if they did I would most likely still be sleeping. Since I am not still sleeping, away we go!" he quickly walked into the grove, followed by Spike and Applejack. Rainbow walked up to Big Mac and gently elbowed him in the side.

"Hurts, don't it," she said to him and walked away. He stood there for a second waiting for Rainbow to be out of earshot.

"...Eeyup."

The day was finally coming to an end, and Perry learned many things about picking apples; mainly that it was boring. He didn't like to be bored, so he found ways to entertain himself as well as his fellow co-workers. It went fine until the balance the basket of apples on the head act failed, causing him to trip and fall, spilling its contents everywhere. Everyone still laughed, knowing that it was all in good fun. Though Rainbow still kept her distance, she found it easier to talk to Perry by the end of the hard work day. Still, their conversations were nothing more than a few words. With everything finally backed up for the day, and for all of their hard work, they were all invited into the Apple household for a nice dinner.

"This is a beautiful farm altogether. The scenery and rustic nature must be more than pleasant," Perry said to Applejack and Big Mac. Applejack smiled at the compliment while Big Mac simply nodded.

"Yup! This here is a nice place," she said back. "Wouldn't do anything differently," everyone made there way to the kitchen to eat. Perry looked over to see Apple Bloom setting the table.

"Long time no see, Apple Bloom," he said as he caught her attention. She smiled and walked up to him.

"Hey there, Mr. Perry, how have ya been?" she asked him politely.

"Fair to partly crazy," he chuckled, causing her to laugh as well. Applejack walked over to them.

"When did you two meet?" she asked, concerned in the way a big sister normally would be.

"I helped her and her friends get a kite out of a tree while waiting at Rarity's. By the way, how did it do?" he asked, turning towards Apple Bloom.

"Miss Cheerilee gave us all A's!" she said happily. "Thanks again for helping us out."

"No problem. It was my pleasure to help you," Perry said. He then turned to Applejack, who had a smile on her face. "You got a nice caring sister, Apple Bloom, so take good care of her," Apple Bloom nodded and went to finish setting the table. Applejack looked at Perry blushing slightly at the comment.

"It's hard to know what to think of ya. One moment you're a weirdo, the other a goof, and another a complete goody two shoe. Even though, I must say thanks then for helping her out. When those three are together, who knows what they would have done," she smiled. He laughed, scratching his head slightly.

"Heh heh. Yes, who knows..." he recalled the makeshift see-saw catapult they were planning to use, but figured big sis didn't really need to know. As they were talking, an elderly woman walked up to them. She had grey hair, done up into a bun, and wore a large, and slightly bulky green dress, with a large white apron over it.

"You must be the famous Granny Smith I have heard about," Perry said as he gave a slight bow. "It is a pleasure."

"What a nice young man, so polite... but scrawny! Come, let's get some meat on them bones," she said to the group as they made there way to their seats. Perry sat between Apple Bloom and Big Mac. "Sonny, take off that goofy thing at the table," Granny Smith said, pointing to his mask. Perry chuckled nervously, not used to someone being so forward about it.

"Granny Smith... he kind of has a thing against removing it front of others," Spike said. "For him it would be like not wearing clothes... it would be..."

"Spike...allow me," he slowly reached his hand up to his mask. Everyone watching on in awe as he was about to do the unthinkable. He quickly pulled his mask off, revealing...another mask exactly like it underneath. Spike started bursting out laughing as everyone else stared dumbfounded.

"HAHAHAha... The old mask under a mask trick, how did I not see it coming," Spike said, catching his breath. "He gets me with that every time," Perry only stared at Spike, setting his extra mask aside.

"I have to apologize, Spike, but how do you keep falling for it?" Perry asked, genuinely curious. "I could understand the first and second, but this is the forty-sixth time," everyone let out a chuckle now, even Spike, embarrassed but agreeing that he could be a bit gullible.

"If yer that determined to wear the silly thing, go ahead. If what the lad says is true, then it would be rude of me to strip ya," Granny Smith told Perry. The mental image slightly scarred him.

"Thank you very much. I do appreciate it more than you could know," he said, taking a fork full of mashed potatoes and slipping it under his mask. Despite eating, he still hid perfectly, even laughing at all the odd angles Apple Bloom sat at to try and see up it. They all told storied and had a few laughs. It was nice to be with a loving family like this, and Perry greatly enjoyed getting to know the Apples. He was, however, still concerned with Rainbow, who barely talked throughout the entire night. She responded and laughed with everyone, but other than that, her usual spunky self was missing from the nice evening.

Perry said his goodbyes to the Apples making his way out. Spike left early, so it was just him and Rainbow Dash walking home, and it looked like Rainbow was about to take flight.

"Rainbow?" Perry said to her, trying to catch her before she left.

"Umm yeah, what's up?" she said nervously.

"Care to walk with me back, It's pretty far, and I am sure you would like to talk a bit," Perry asked politely. Rainbow put some thought into it, and eventually decided that she needed to get this over with, like pulling off an old band aid.

"Sure...I guess," she nodded. Perry returned the nod, making his way back towards the town. Rainbow followed right after, the both of them in silence for some time, simply enjoying the crisp night air. Eventually, the lack of sound between the two got a bit awkward. Perry decided to make the first move, since she was the one avoiding him.

"So, how is your hand doing?" Perry asked her casually.

"Well, it's still sore, but much better now. Working it today helped loosen it up," she looked down. "Sorry if it seems like I have been ignoring you today," she said to him, rubbing her hand out of instinct.

"It's not a problem. I could understand that you would still be nervous," he sighed. "Last night was just a simple lack of judgment on my part. I knew better, yet I still acted like a brute."

"It's fine, I guess. I am the one who went all psycho bitch before and tried to kick your ass," she laughed slightly. "Didn't go as I planned..."

"Now Rainbow, don't lie like that," she looked at him a bit confused. "You have to think to have a plan!" he laughed. She stared at him, giving Perry a playful punch to the arm. He took it like a man and laughed some more, both of them finally loosening up now.

"I guess everyone has their side they don't like to show..." Rainbow said, now looking down. "But it would suck if we disliked each other for being people we don't like to be," Perry just nodded, looking towards the ground. He couldn't tell her that he normally did enjoy being like that. He reveled in the bloodshed and mayhem of battle, and didn't care for other ways to go about it. Maybe it was time to learn something new.

"One day, when we are both ready, I'll spar you for real. No emotions swaying our judgment, or grudges, just...a fun test of our skill," Rainbow smiled at the comment, looking over at him excitedly.

"You better be ready then, cause I am going to have to kick your ass good next time!"

"I look forward to it," he smiled at her spunk, and really did look forward to it.

Perry and Rainbow walked up to his house. "This is my stop. Thank you for being such good company," Rainbow nodded to him give one last wave before heading up into Cloudsdale. He entered the house and sat back for a bit, just staring out into the night sky.

"Kindness...maybe it isn't all that bad," he chuckled, remembering back to what the barkeep from yesterday told him about the plant. "I owe him a drink... Maybe that's what he meant," he laughed, enjoying the hidden wit in that man. He got changed and ready for bed himself, tomorrow hopefully going to go even better than today.

"My power is almost restored..." an ominous voice spoke from the deep parts of the forest on the outskirts of town. Animals dared not tread near it. A lone figure cloaked in black kneeled before the dark within the forest. "Those blasted Elements of Harmony will regret the day they ruined my plans..." a red glow slowly illuminated the darkness of the forest where the entity stayed hidden, waiting until it was time, and his power was fully returned. "I will show them all the true meaning of TERROR!"

The Crazy Thing About The Forest

Chapter 9: The Crazy Thing About The Forest

Perry awoke. Nothing really special to it. No surprises. No random happenings this fine slightly cloudy morning. Just Perry waking up. Slipping out of bed and stretching the drowsiness out of himself, he made his way into the kitchen. He still had on his sleeping mask, wearing his white night outfit, complete with a cone hat, a fuzzy pom pom on the tip, and red and green polka dots completed the bizarre look. He had the sleep shirt opened, preferring cool air over being totally warm, also that he didn't feel like replacing the four buttons that have fallen off a long time ago.

A morning ritual to get the day ready for him, he started up a pot of coffee. Watching the blackish liquid bubble up in the glass top made the perfect morning experience he had received so far nearly perfect. He opened his ice box, grabbing the tray of eggs and butter, and set them aside. He then grabbed a few vegetables and cheese, carefully slicing them up so they would cook quickly. After a few minutes in front of the stove, he finally finished cooking the beautiful looking omelette. The coffee was finished and poured. The omelette was plated and ready to be devoured. As he finished getting ready to be able to relax and enjoy the morning, the slight sound of knocking on his front door pulled him back to reality and out of his perfect morning. He looked at the door, then at his food, and sighed. He walked to the door, opening it up to see who it was. He noticed a familiar young woman standing there, her long light pink hair slightly blocking half of her face.

"I am sorry...if I woke...ummm..." she took notice of what he looked like outside of his normal attire, almost forgetting what she was saying as she spent a few seconds staring at him. Initially, she couldn't help but let out a smile at his childishly adorable outfit, but started to blush as she stared at the opening in his night shirt. Perry only watched, awkwardly tilting his head in a moment of confusion.

"Can I help you, Fluttershy?" Perry finally asked her, laughing lightly as she jumped at his sudden question. "Come on in. I made, successfully this time around, a nice omelette. It's a tad big, so I can split it up for you if you're hungry," he opened the door for her, moving out of the way now. She just stood there for a few seconds before speaking up.

"No...it's fine. I am not hungry... I just..." she was interrupted by a somewhat loud growl from her stomach, quite possibly the loudest sound Perry has actually heard her make. Her blush grew an even deeper red in embarrassment, and without saying anything she walked into his house and towards the kitchen. Perry followed after, holding back his laughter to make her feel better. He walked into the kitchen and grabbed a second plate and another set of silverware. He cut the omelette on his plate in half, slid it onto the extra plate, and set it down opposite to him. Fluttershy stood in a corner, trying to stay out of his way.

"Would you like anything to drink? Coffee or juice, perhaps?" Perry asked Fluttershy politely.

"Juice please.... if that is alright," she quietly said making her way to the seat set for her across from him. He nodded and opened the ice box, pulling out a bottle of apple juice and pouring a glass for her. He set it by her and took his seat now, slipping a piece of omelette under his mask and taking a bite. Fluttershy watched him as he did so, trying not to let herself be noticed watching. Even she was a bit curious at what was hiding behind Perry's mask. "I should have asked this before, but did you use any... meat in here?" she said meekly as she stared at the food in front of her, poking it nervously with her fork.

"No I didn't. I prefer not to eat flesh if possible. That isn't a problem, I hope," Perry responded to Fluttershy's question. "I can make you a new one if that bothers you?"

"No no...it's perfect, actually. I am a vegetarian!" she told him happily. "Working with animals so much, I would never be able to live with myself if I ate one I knew. It's a silly fear... but you never know..." she blushed slightly expecting him to laugh at her. Perry only nodded reassuringly towards the girl. She smiled at him, taking a bite of her food. "Oh my...this is actually really good!" she said with more volume than usual.

"You expect anything less?" he said with a bit of an attitude in his voice. She looked down quickly.

"Well...with what happened when you tried to cook at my house..." Fluttershy said to him. Perry chuckled nervously.

"Oh yes... almost forgot about that. It was a fluke incident!" he exclaimed. "Though all I can really make are omelettes, I do it well most of the time."

"If you don't mind me asking, why don't you like to eat meat?" Fluttershy asked, never actually having met a man who disliked meat.

"Personal lifestyle choice," Perry replied, taking another chunk of omelette and slipping it under the mask. "Anyways though, I am sure you didn't come here to have breakfast," Perry said, taking the last bite of his food. She looked over at him as he got up and placed his dishes in the sink, then taking his seat again and watching her.

"Well...I need to make a trip to a friends house for some homemade medicine, but I am afraid to go alone," Perry listened to her, watching her get nervous. "She lives in the Everfree Forest, and it can be dangerous in there. I was....wondering if...ummm..."

"It would be my pleasure to assist you, Fluttershy," Perry said to her.

"If it is not a bother...Everyone else is busy. Also...I feel... safe with you..," she blushed as she looked up at him. He nodded, thankful that he was wearing a mask, for me just might have been blushing too.

"I just need to change into something a bit more... socially acceptable," he laughed as he got up and headed for his bedroom. Getting changed rather quickly, he was back to his usual look, mask included. He walked into the kitchen and grabbed his untouched cup of coffee. Feeling a bit mischievous, he turned with his back to Fluttershy, removing his mask and holding it out to the side so she could see he was no longer wearing it. He gulped down the coffee quickly and placed the mask back on, turning around to see her staring. Her next words shocked him slightly, as he didn't see it coming from a mile away.

"Why do you wear it?" Fluttershy asked. He looked at her, not saying a word for several seconds.

"Well, Fluttershy..." he started but couldn't finish the sentence. Every time someone asked him that, he was happy to make up an incredible tale about it. He couldn't with her, not for lack of trying, and it bothered him to no extent.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you...please don't be angry at me," she begged slightly, looking at the ground. "I was just remembering what you said that morning... I really don't know anything about you... but I would. I promise not to bother you about it if you don't want to tell me... please... please don't be upset..."

"It is a rare disorder..." Perry spoke quietly. He walked over to the door and opened it, holding it open for Fluttershy as well. She walked over, looking into his face as he watched her. They both walked outside before he continued. "I was picked on quite often when I was younger, so eventually I decided to start hiding it from the world. Time marches on and little things you did as a kid become a habit that forever follows you into adulthood. Now I can't help but feel afraid when I remove my mask in front of others."

"I'm sorry...You seem so confident. It is hard to think you are afraid of anything," she said as they started towards the forest. Perry walked beside her.

"It's fine, Flutters." she smiled and blushed as Perry used her nickname. "...To be fair, it's not even anything really embarrassing. I may be different, but I am no mutant...or am I?" he chuckled and started walking like a zombie, causing Fluttershy to laugh. "I will suck your brain out through a straw."

"I doubt you're a mutant." Fluttershy smiled. "You are you, and that is why..." she started to look away.

"Why what?" Perry asked her, tilting his head slightly.

"No...nothing really." she said. They continued in silence for several minutes, Fluttershy hoping that he would forget the subject in general. Perry, on the other hand, didn't feel like pressuring her.

The forest eventually started to grow in their sights, Fluttershy stopping a few feet from the wooded entrance. "We are almost there, so get ready. It's really scary in there," she said, shuddering slightly. Perry looked at the entrance to the forest. It didn't look all that bad, but Fluttershy was also timid, so he figured it was just her being her.

"Stay close to me, and I promise nothing will happen!" Perry said, walking into the Everfree Forest.

"Umm, I really do appreciate it, Perry...but," Fluttershy started. He stopped and looked at her. "...do you know where she lives?"

"...Lead the way!" he quickly exclaimed, laughing like the fool he felt he was. She smiled, feeling slightly reassured now, knowing he wasn't scared at all. She lead the way as he followed her, keeping an eye open for anything that could pose a threat. He chuckled to himself about actually thinking anything here would be a threat, noting an odd look from Fluttershy. Perry was feeling better than usual today, the prospect of danger was most likely the cause of it.

The trip was longer than Perry thought it would be, with nothing really interesting happening. Even if he wanted to see some action, he was actually relieved so far to not actually encounter any sort of threat. He didn't have to do anything crazy in front of her, or lose it in the shrill of battle again. They arrived as at the destination as Fluttershy started to call out to Zecora, the owner of the house. It was built into a tree, like Fluttershy's, but it had a more wild feel to it.

"Zecora, I am here. Are you home?" she said quietly. Perry chuckled as he watched her.

"I don't believe she would have heard you, Flutters. How about we try knocking?" he said, lightly laughing. He walked up to the door, and gave it a few solid knocks. After a moment, a dark skinned woman opened the door. She looked almost feral, wearing a simple cloth top and large loincloth. She had what looked like white body paint, giving the impression of stripes, painted all over her. Finally, she had a not so subtle mohawk, with segments alternating in a black and white pattern. She stared at Perry for a moment, before looking over his shoulder to see Fluttershy behind him waving. She opened the door for them both.

"Please come in and have a seat," she said to them, and looked at Perry. "And who is this that I have the pleasure to meet?" Perry chuckled slightly at the rhyme.

"I am Perry O'te, royal jester to the princesses of Equestria," he bowed to the woman. "I was asked to join Fluttershy on her trip here so she could remain safe," Fluttershy nodded to Zecora.

"Here is the medicine you asked for. Let me know if you need any more," Zecora handed a bottle to Fluttershy. Perry chuckled at the rhyming quirk.

"Thank you very much, Zecora. Harry hasn't been feeling well and I was getting worried," Fluttershy said.

"Of course, dear Fluttershy. You are always welcome to come on by," Zecora said to her and smiled. Perry now looked at Zecora puzzled. The first two times could have been flukes, but this seemed deliberate, and he was curious.

"Pardon me for asking, but is the rhyming just a habit, or do you do it on purpose?" Perry asked her. Zecora smiled

"It is the way I am, I promise it is not an act or a sham," she said to him. "Now it is my turn to ask, why do you were that silly mask?" Perry chuckled and looked at her.

"I was a circus freak, and my face was the main attraction. When I ran away, I wore a mask so they would never find me," he told his tale to Zecora, who, by her facial reactions, didn't buy the story. He figured as much anyways, easily being one of the more out there stories he has told. "So, to this day, I hide from that ever searching circus, hoping that I will never be caught."

"Your tale was definitely something new, but I can tell it isn't true," he nodded and looked at Zecora.

"Indeed, but I shall stick to my story none the less," Perry said.

"I respect your right to secrecy. How about we talk again over tea? Not today, though. It is late, and you surely don't wish to become monster bait," Perry wasn't even sure of the time, the travel must have been longer than expected, or maybe he got up later than he thought.

"Another time, then. Are you ready Fluttershy?" he asked Fluttershy, who had been quiet for some time.

"Yes, we should leave so I can give Harry his medicine as soon as possible," she said as she walked to the door. Perry was about to follow when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He looked behind him to see a very stern looking Zecora looking at him.

"Fluttershy, could you wait outside for a few seconds? I want to ask Zecora about something. It's kind of embarrassing, though," he said, lightly chuckling.

"Of course. Just don't be too long. It is quite scary out there." Fluttershy responded as she went out the door, closing it behind her. Perry then chuckled, his breathing growing slightly erratic.

"Put that knife down, you have no desire to use it on me..."

"Speak, dark filled man...what is your sinister plan?" he simply grinned under the mask.

"Honestly, to have a nice vacation in Ponyville. What makes you think like that?"

"I can feel the evil there... yet I can sense that you do care. What matter of fiend do you be. To hide your wickedness from me," Perry turned around slowly. Zecora continued to hold the knife to him, now near his throat.

"It is a matter best not addressed, shaman. If you can feel my aura, as you say, you should also be able to tell I have no Ill intentions. Otherwise, I am sure you would have tried to kill me when you had the chance. You have been holding onto that knife for quite some time. Truly, it was so sloppy, I am surprised Fluttershy didn't notice," his voice, nearing the end of the sentence, had grown more stern. "If you must know, I do things a lesser person couldn't, sacrificing morality and decency for the greater good...even if I do collect some enjoyment from it," Zecora looked at him for several moments, before lowering the knife. "I will ask you only once. Don't mention this conversation to anyone, Zecora...I am dead serious. I respect you and understand you're simply making sure your friend is safe. I swear on my life she is. But if you do speak of this..." Zecora started to slightly tremble as the air in the room suddenly changed. It had become hard to breath, chills running down her spine as her heart began to beat faster and faster. She almost felt like a cornered prey, struggling to hold herself back from attacking. "I...will...kill...you," each word was like a knife, piercing into Zecora, causing her to start to shake rapidly.

She could feel it. True killing intent, powerful and too real. Suddenly that goofy mask was the mask of the reaper sent to take her soul. A knock on the door quickly broke the trance, as Fluttershy slowly stuck her head inside. Perry looked over to her. "Is everything alright, I suddenly got a bad feeling..." she said to Zecora and Perry.

"I promise you everything is fine. I just wanted to ask about some medicine for a few...issues," Perry replied. Zecora only nodded, finding the words hard pressed inside her to even speak. "I am ready now, so let's head out," he walked to the door, looking back at Zecora. "It was nice to meet you, Zecora. You have a pleasant day," he said to her as he left. She dropped to her knees as soon as they were gone, trying hard to forget what she felt. He was an evil that she never experienced before. Nothing like the evils that has befallen Equestria, because he almost felt like a half to the whole, something that truly did stem from necessity rather than malice. None the less, his display of control over his own desires was still terrifying, and something she won't soon forget.

The walk back so far was quiet. He was happy to be away from that woman. The less she knew about him, the better. He couldn't help but think the same about Fluttershy, though. Would he ever be able to tell her himself; or better yet, should he? Perry's thought process was quickly interrupted as a sudden silence instilled the forest. He quickly stopped, grabbing Fluttershy and holding her close. She started to gasp, but he quickly covered her mouth with his hand.

"Shhh...something is out there..." Perry whispered, removing his hand. She nodded, fear imminent in her eyes. He pulled her against a tree, watching and listening. He could sence the evil emanating from whatever foul beast lurk. This was bad. Very bad. He didn't want to risk an encounter, but at the same time, it needed to be eliminated, and fast. He peered around the tree, his eyes widening at what he was seeing.

The creature was something he recognized from old legends. It initially looked like a large red horse being rode on my a red man. At a closer look, the two were joined at the back, the horse heads one fiery red eye glaring as it wondered its gaze around. The creature lacked any skin on it, showing its muscular system in full view, black veins pulsing across it. The arms of the torso on the back were long, ending in sharp claws meant for tearing through flesh and ripping its victims to shreds. It looked like something that came straight out of hell, and was now in eyesight of a more than concerned Perry. He quickly pulled his head back behind cover taking a deep breath. He needed a moment to think. Fluttershy, not even knowing what was going on, could only become more scared, feeling the slight acceleration of his heart against her back.

"W...what...is...it?" Fluttershy whispered slowly.

"Nuckelavee," Perry responded in a low whisper. What was it doing here though? It was completely out of place. It had to be stopped though, by all means. If he remembered right, the thing was capable of bringing plagues and famine to any area it traversed in. Foul by nature, it was a dark and twisted being that only brought death.

"Wh...what is that?" Fluttershy asked. Perry only remained quiet as he listened in the area for something. He finally heard what he wanted to hear, though it was distant.

"Fluttershy...I need you to do exactly as I say. To the left is what sounds like a river. When I get out to distract it, run...run fast and don't look back. You have to cross the stream."

"But...what about you...I can't leave you..." Fluttershy quietly said, worried more for him than herself at the moment.

"It's too fast for both of us to outrun it," even if Perry carried Fluttershy, he was nervous that it would slow him down too much and they would both be done for.

"But..."

"No buts, Fluttershy. I made a promise that I would protect you, and I will. I will also promise you that I won't die. We are both going home together."

"...Promise?" she looked at him with tears in her eyes.

"I promise," he said reassuringly to her. He slowly looked back out there to see where they stood distance wise from the creature. Unfortunately it wasn't far, as Perry would be greeted face to face by the Nuckelavee's glowing red eye. On an instant, he grabbed Fluttershy and jumped out of the way, its massive arms crushing the tree they escaped from. The tree was knocked over effortlessly as it made a dash at the two of them. Fluttershy was frozen with fear as the death incarnate chased them, forcing Perry to grab her and jump out of the way again, barely avoiding its claws.

"Fluttershy, you have to run!!!" he positioned himself in front of her, readying himself for the next assault. As much as she wanted to, she could only stand there, frozen in fear. her legs refused to respond to what her brain was telling them to do. Perry noticed this, realizing that she was in a petrified state. Even if she wanted to run, she wouldn't be able to as she was. The beast charged, Perry grabbing Fluttershy and jumping out of the way. As nimble as he seemed, he wasn't quick enough this time to avoid its claw, as it scratched along his back, tearing through his shirt and outer layer of skin. Perry winced in pain, but he held himself together from the flesh wound. He ran as fast as he could while carrying Fluttershy, weaving through trees to try and buy some shred of time.

He needed to snap Fluttershy out of this, as he couldn't fight seriously with her there for risk of her getting hurt. He figured the best way to do this was to do something drastic. Something even he didn't want to do. Finally finding the perfect cover from the wretched beast, he took them both behind a large rock. She stood there, shaking in fear as she was only being held up by his grip on her. Not having the luxury of changing his mind, he looked her right in the face, and pulled off his mask...

The Crazy Thing About The Heart

Chapter 10: The Crazy Thing About The Heart

Even though there was a monstrous demon of a creature quickly on their trail, none of that mattered at the moment. Even though they were under the threat of eminent death, time almost felt like it wasn't even moving to Fluttershy. Her heart was racing, staring Perry in the eyes. His eyes, not the mask he wore, but his actual eyes. She could see what he meant when he told her he was different. The way he looked at her, obviously nervous yet remaining strong, made her blush. His face was slightly pale from lack of light hitting it, but it wasn't ugly. It was a subtle attractiveness that made her gaze hard to remove. His eyes though...his left eye glowed with a hue of blue almost similar to hers. However, his right eye was a blood red where it should have been white. His iris was a simple black lined ring, leading into the red pupil. His stare left her breathless, not sure of how to act or what to even think. Perry, satisfied that he had her undivided attention, handed Fluttershy his mask and spoke to her gently.

"Take this and go...I will be back to retrieve it, so I need you to keep it safe. Please do this for me?" he spoke with a simple sincerity, and a calm yet strong voice. She nodded to Perry and, the shock of seeing him snapping her slightly out of her fright, started to finally run. Perry trusted her enough with this task as to do something that she knew must have been terrifying for him, so she needed to succeed. She had to keep his mask safe for him so he can return for it. She thought back to his face, to his eye. Even though it was as terrifying as the eye of the damned beast that made chase, it managed to reassured her as well. He would come back alive.

Perry watched Fluttershy run away. He was happy about this, for many reasons. She would be safe from the Nuckelavee, and he would be sure to keep it that way. She would also be safe from him, which made it all the easier for him to cut loose. Oh cut loose he did plan on doing. This was a long time coming, and with all the stress that had built up from everything going on, he needed to relax, even though to others it would be an odd way to go about it. This thing was looking like the perfect stress ball, as no one would miss it. The fact that it looked slightly human made it so much more fun to kill than an animal too. He heard the footsteps racing forward, and smiled. It was a sick and twisted smile, born from years of bloodshed and slaughter. As the beast tried to run by the rock to make chase for Fluttershy, he let out a swift kick, managing to strike it in the side, toppling it over. The Nuckelavee, caught completely unaware, had begun rolling across the ground before coming to a stop. Perry simply walked, wanting to take his time with this one.

"Oh come on!" Perry said in frustration. "Please tell me you're not going to be that easy," he gave a fake frown down towards the infuriated creature, its one eye glowing red with anger. It got up quickly for a beast of its size, letting out a shrill bellow. The dark cry from the monster had caused plant life around it to start to wither, using this approach in a show of power to try to intimidate its enemy. Perry laughed at it.

"Oh oh, I can do that too!" Perry yelled as he swallowed some air, and let out a loud belch. He giggled happily at his own antics, the Nuckelavee obviously not amused. "Ahh you're no fun. Lighten up!" the beast simply ran at Perry, ready to kill him and quickly. Perry did the same, the smile never leaving his face. As the Nuckelavee took a swing at Perry, he bent down and did a power slide between its front legs and out from behind it. The beast was clearly confused at where he went, before hearing Perry speak. "Oh thank you all! You're a wonderful audience!" it turned around, staring Perry down. "Aww...ish my little vee vee angwy?" Perry mocked. His obvious attempt at pissing it off working, the Nuckelavee let out a loud roar. As monstrous as it sounded, it only succeeded in causing Perry to grin. "Well, as much as I want to play with you, I have to kill you now," he sighed as he looked at it, a frown forming on his face. The Nuckelavee, if it could speak, would probably be shouting out several profanities as it once again began charging quickly. Perry simply stood there, awaiting its attack. As it took a swing, he ducked. Using his crouched position, he quickly countered with an uppercut onto the horse head, connecting with a sickening thud.

It quickly regained its composure, attempting to slash at Perry by swinging its arms wildly at him. Perry grinned with glee, dodging back and forth, the beast's quickness no match for Perry's. "You would think that something as wicked as you would be dangerous. You're barely an afternoon stretch..." he smiled at the beast; it became more enraged by his comments. It jumped back, leaving Perry a bit saddened. "What is wrong, vee vee? Don't you wanna play with me? I swear it will be loads of fun! Blood will shower when I am done!" Perry giggled lightly at his own rhyme. The Nuckelavee held its clawed arms out, preparing another charge assault. "You know, for a demonic hell spawn looking horse thingy, you're not very smart. I mean, all you seem to do is run at me, I dodge, hurt you, rinse and repeat! Let's face it. With that kind of strategy, I might as well make it easier for you," Perry said to the Nuckelavee, holding his arms behind his back. It just ignoring him, not listening to his insults anymore. It dashed towards him with more speed than before, leaving very little room to get out of the way. Jump left and right and get shredded. Stay where he was and he would get trampled by the beast. Perry had his own idea in mind. He raised his leg, and with rock crushing force, dropped his heel into the beast's head when it was just inches away. He proceeded to drive its head into the ground, smashing its lower jaw on a rock below.

The Nuckelavee fell over onto its side. Its jaw flopping about, broken and crushed. Perry looked at the foul beast, grinning like a fool. "So what color do you bleed, I wonder?" he said to the beast as it was trying to rise from where it laid. swinging its arms in a flailing motion to keep Perry from getting anywhere near it. "I hope it is a pretty color! They are so pretty and make me so happy!" he licked his lips in anticipation. Anyone watching the encounter would surely be unsure of who would be the monster now.

"Hold down that which soars..." he started to chant. "Bind down to the land in which we walk..." he started to glow from casting the spell. "Give way to all that resides, granting a swift entrance. Hide away the light, and pull darkness in, where angels dare not fly..." he raised his hand and grinned at the beast. It is almost as it could tell its time was near an end, and looked on at Perry for mercy, but saw none.

"Gravity Crush!" the area around the Nuckelavee grew heavy, rapidly. All the branches in the trees above it started to give way. Sure he could have straight out targeted the beast, but it wasn't going to be as much fun as what he had in store. At a sudden influx, all the branches gave way, breaking off and flying towards the ground at the Nuckelavee, skewering it like a bushel of spears. It bellowed in pain, its blood squirting everywhere, covering Perry in a good amount. He took his hand and gently smeared it across his face. "Oh so warm! It feels so good!" the beast stopped its cries as its glowing red eye began to close for the last time. "I am going to miss you, vee vee, but you will always hold a special place in my heart. Hmm...right next to the guy whose skin I ripped off. I never knew a skull could look so cool when the owner was still alive, that guy will always be my favorite...but you do come in a close second," he chuckled. He walked towards it and stared up into the darkening sky. "Funny, such a nice hole leading up, doubt that's where you went, though," he bent down and gave the corpse a playful nudge on the cheek. "Cheer up, sport. At least you made me feel better, and that is all that counts, am I right...oh yeah you're dead. Can't tell me," he grabbed the jaw and made mock motions with it as if it was speaking. "You're right, Pierriot, making you feel better does make becoming a pin cushion so much more appealing," he continued his antics with the dead beast for another minute before getting bored and preparing to leave. Not before he stomped its skulls in to be on the safe side. That. and he wanted to see which one had the brains.

Fluttershy made it to the river. Quickly, she lifted the back of her sweater to let out her elegant wings she kept hidden. She struggled to use them, as she flew over to the other side as quickly as she could. Landing on the other side, she pulled her sweater back over them and huddled against a tree and waited, staring at the mask for comfort.

"He will come back for it...he has to..." she told herself. She remembered hearing the wails that the Nuckelavee made. Its unearthly cry unlike anything she ever heard. She couldn't do anything, just sat there and prayed that he would return alive. "He will come back...he will come back...he promised..." she kept telling herself, her tears falling on the mask she held. Its goofy grin looking at her, like Perry did. His laughing, the stories he told. She thought back on it, and imagined all the events without the mask, it being his face that smiled at her, grinned as he told his stories, and that look of determination as he stood against those men. It was subtle, but helped bring her comfort in this dark moment. She knew he only removed it for her, to help her. When he returned, if he returned, he would probably go back to wearing it all the time. It didn't matter, though, because it was a moment she could only hope to keep with her for as long as possible. Her thoughts were interrupted, though, as a red figure made its way through the forest towards her. She feared for the worst, thinking that Perry managed to fail. She was afraid that she would never be able to return the mask she safe guarded to its proper owner. After an agonizing walk, the figure finally came into focus.

"PERRY!" she yelled, louder than any yell she had ever released. He was covered in blood, terrifying her to no end. He looked fine, but what if most of it was his own. On the other side of the river, he gave a slight wave to Fluttershy before jumping in. He was underwater now, as Fluttershy waited for him, hoping that he would rise out of the water soon. After about a minute of panic and worry, she saw his hand arise from the side, pulling his now cleaned up self, minus a few red stains, out of the water. She watched him as he got out. He looked at her and smiled.

"A true gentleman always keeps his promise," Perry told her, gently removing a tear from her face.

Fluttershy, staring at him nervously, was hesitant to ask, but she needed to know. "A...are you ok? I saw all that blood...is it..."

"Dead? Yes. I did what I had to do. There would be no reasoning with it, and it would only hurt people," he looked at her, and could tell she was bothered by the thought of anyone taking a life.

"Was there really no other way?" Fluttershy looked at him sadly.

"I doubt it...I am sorry if what I did bothered you..." he looked down, genuine sadness in his eyes. He felt wrong, seeing her sad like this. Even worse was that he knew he enjoyed making it suffer. He could never bear to tell her the truth, seeing her like this. She looked at him, and after some time to think about what had occurred, did her best to smile for him.

"It's fine...I understand. Thank you for saving me twice now," she blushed slightly and hugged him. He winced as he felt her hands on the claw marks, causing her to quickly pull away. She looked at her hands, seeing a dark crimson red on them. "Are you ok?!" she asked quickly. He nodded, still wincing slightly.

"I should be. The thing got me good, but nothing I will die from," he chuckled lightly, giving Fluttershy his best reassuring smile. She shook her head and glared at him.

"Take off your shirt," he stared, tilting his head to the side and giving her a confused look.

"I know I am good looking, but I doubt this is the time and place to be admiring me," Perry said, giving a cocky smile. She blushed heavily and shook her head.

"I..I am sorry! I mean...take it off... so I can treat the wound," he laughed and looked at her.

"I know. It is just so much fun to tease you," he grinned, causing her to blush even more. He took his shirt off, the thing not being in the best of shape anyways.

"Promise you won't laugh at me..." Perry looked at Fluttershy.

"Why do you ask that?" Perry asked. Fluttershy tried to speak, but only managed to fidget around nervously. "Never the less, I promise. You don't have to be embarrassed around me," she smiled slightly at his comment. Taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, she removed her sweater, causing Perry's jaw to drop slightly. He could see her thin looking undershirt showing off her figure. It was like a hidden treasure, but what he was looking at was almost the crown gem. She had wings, soft looking and beautiful, with a golden hue to them. She folded them over her front in embarrassment, looking towards the ground. She tried to distract her thoughts, not wanting to look up, as she tried to rip her sweater into strips. He gently grabbed her slightly shaking hand, causing her to look up at him, and could see a blush in Perry's face. Those eyes, scary as the one was, were also so soft looking. Perry didn't know what to think either, really. He woke up today thinking it would be another day, now he was lost in the Everfree Forest, having defeated a mythical demonic creature, and looking at someone without his mask on, and strangely not caring. He helped her with the sweater, feeling kind of bad for ripping her clothing up.

"Fluttershy, I don't see why you would be embarrassed..." Perry spoke softly to her, continuing to help her. She took a sleeve from the thing and dabbed it into the river. Wringing it out, she gently cleaned up the wound on his back. He winced slightly, but he maintained his composure so she wouldn't get upset.

"It's...just..." she started as she used the other sleeve to dry his back off, dabbing it lightly on the injured parts. "...I am one of the winged ones, yet I can't fly well at all. People where I live often made fun of me...calling me useless...and..." she stopped, causing Perry to turn his head to look at her. She was ready to cry. Perry got up and hugged her gently. He didn't understand why, he just needed to do this. It was wrong.

"Fluttershy, don't worry about what others say about you. You're not useless, you're unique..." Perry told Fluttershy looking at her. It was so wrong. She was so much more different than him. "You're special, you didn't let what people said make you bitter and hateful...in that sense you're better than I could ever be," she blushed as he spoke to her like this, holding her tightly against his chest and looking down at her. He felt like this entire situation was wrong, and it should not happen. "You're a beautiful woman. You're kind and caring, someone deserving of all the happiness in the world," he couldn't believe himself right now. He never felt so off in his life, so many emotions he believed he had killed a long time ago. He wasn't even sure if those were his words and these were his thoughts. Sure, he could easily act, make people think he was genuine, but everything coming from him was how he truly felt, scaring him almost more than an army of those damned monsters ever could. "I can't give you happiness and comfort like that...but I can try and comfort you..." Perry bent his head down and gently kissed Fluttershy, her teary eyes getting wide, filled with shock and confusion. It was wrong of him, and he knew it. It was wrong, and stupid, and downright twisted of him, but he couldn't help but love her. Fluttershy responded to kiss, wrapping her arms around Perry's neck, only causing him to tighten the embrace he had on her. The moment could have lasted an eternity, but sadly, eternity wasn't long enough.

They broke off the kiss slowly, Perry looking into Fluttershy's eyes. She smiled lightly still holding him around the neck. Never has Perry felt so comfortable without the mask, almost even forgetting it exists at all. The moment was so perfect and so peaceful so...

"THERE THEY ARE!!!" A loud yell caused both Perry and Fluttershy to jump. Perry could see Twilight along with the rest of the group heading on the riverbank towards them quickly. Perry, now suddenly completely self conscious about his face, quickly and frantically looked around.

"Fluttershy! My mask! Where is it?!" he spoke quickly, nerves flaring in alarm. She quickly picked it up from her belongings and with almost inhuman speeds he stuck it to his face. He casually started whistling as the girls finally got to them. They all stared awkwardly at the two of them. Fluttershy was standing there blushing heavily, her sweater torn to shreds, and Perry sweating nervously, his shirt tossed to the side, and obviously whistling like someone who was hiding something. Twilight was the first to move forward with what looked like a small fire burning in her eyes.

"Dark clouds send forth your emissary, show judgment to those deemed unworthy..."

"Twilight, wait! This isn't what it looks like!" Perry yelled out, realizing the implications of how everything looked.

"Lightning!" a bolt struck Perry, causing him to twitch slightly, and fall to the ground face first. All of the girls gasped slightly when they noticed the huge claw mark on his bare back. "Fluttershy, what happened?"

"umm...well...you see..." she fumbled on her words, still embarrassed with everything that has happened in the last two minutes. Perry graciously raised his hand, showing he was still alive.

"Now don't you think...you should ask that...before zapping me?" Perry said slowly as he got up. Twilight glared at him.

"Lightning!" a smaller bolt came out of the cloud, hitting him again, and causing him to twitch about.

"So...cruel..."

Perry spent a good portion of the trip back to Ponyville recounting the tale of the Nuckelavee, sparing them all the gory parts in which he was responsible for. Fluttershy added in her account, with both of them avoiding the more intimate details between the two. Perry was wrapped up in Fluttershy's old sweater now, the blood finally stopping.

"Wow...I didn't even think that those were in Equestria," Twilight said as Perry and Fluttershy finished the story.

"Yeah, me neither," Perry responded. "It was a shock, to think that there was something like that in this forest."

"It sounds like that knucklehead fella caused one heck of a ruckus. It was lucky you two made it out alive," Applejack said to Perry and Fluttershy.

"I'm sure Perry had everything all under control!" Rainbow gently nudged him. "He earned my seal of coolness, and I only give those to people who are just as great as me!" Perry chuckled at the odd, but nice compliment.

"I say we have a party!" Pinkie exclaimed, everyone turned to look at her.

"Pinkie...a party? I think those two should get rest more than anything, sweetie..." Rarity said to Pinkie with a raised eyebrow.

"What? It is a 'I am glad you're not horse chow' party!" she said happily.

"I second the motion to party!" Perry exclaimed.

"No party, at least not today!" Twilight yelled. She then pointed to Perry. "You! Hospital! You need to get treated," Perry whimpered like a little dog while looking at Twilight.

"But...I don't like hospitals...they bore me..." he said slowly

"Fine. I will have to play amateur surgeon then," Twilight grinned at Perry

"On second thought a hospital doesn't sound all that bad...please don't ever do that again!" he said quickly. All the girls laughed at his response.

Finally making it out of the forest, everyone took a breath of relief. The night sky was more visible now. Everyone made their way to Ponyville Hospital to have Perry and Fluttershy checked out. Perry was still upset about going to the hospital, but it was better than Twilight testing new methods of medicine on him. He figured that a hospital bed and some rest might be nice to get his mind cleared up from the madness that is the day, and his heart. He did things today that he didn't know he would, or even could.

His thoughts drifted to Fluttershy, and the moment they shared together at the river bank. He wanted to enjoy it so badly, but it wasn't fair to someone as sweet and kind as her to be with someone like him. These thoughts continued to eat at him. Everyone noticed the silence, occasionally asking if he was alright. Perry nodded and gave his usual laugh. This made all of them feel a bit better, but they still couldn't help but look on with concern, considering what occurred. He kept looking at Fluttershy from out of the corner of his eye. Her wings were still used to cover herself, as she hasn't really moved them since showing Perry. It didn't make them any less stunning. He chuckled to himself, thinking she almost resembled an angel. His next thought was simple, yet it did nothing but cause him pain, hurt him, and leave him feeling shallow and empty.

'Could an angel ever fall in love with a demon?'

The Crazy Thing About Regret

Chapter 11: The Crazy Thing About Regret

Perry didn't like hospitals. They were boring and the food was terrible. The only redeeming feature was that they smelled of death, and even then it didn't matter because he was cooped up in a room. Across from him in the opposite bed was an elderly man, who kept asking Perry if he wanted to see pictures of his grandchildren. No matter how politely he declined, the man was insistent. He only had to be in for the night to make sure his wound wasn't infected, the annoying stitches already taken care of. Had it not been the promise of early release, and his use of his freebie already, the old man might just pass on in the middle of the night. Let's not forget the struggle with the doctors on why he needs to remove his mask, which didn't fair well, and in the end a bill for a thousand bits worth of property damage was sent to Canterlot. Luna would be pissed, but he kept solace in the fact that Celestia would get a chuckle out of it.

Fluttershy, on the other hand was an in and out case. She wasn't hurt at all. At most shaken up, but she was perfectly fine. Perry could only smile happily knowing he did his job well. Ignoring the old mans babble about birthday parties, he began to write a letter to Celestia and Luna. Perry made sure to include a detailed repost on the incident, mainly the attack in the woods and his reasons for the hospital stay. He also, in regards to the crushed devise, gave a half hearted apology, making sure to say it was more the doctors fault than his own. Satisfied, he gave a snap of his fingers, sending the letter to Celestia, just as she taught him to.

"Ohhh! You are one of them magical folks," the old man said to Perry. He nodded, happy to finally hear him talk about anything else besides happiness and family.

"Yes I am, but I am not all that good," Perry lied. He wasn't very fond of using magic, but his skill was actually greater than most actually knew, though not nearly as versatile as Twilight's. In terms of offensive magic, however, he knew more than he would let on. His thoughts were interrupted by a nurse entering the room, wearing her pink hair up in a bun, and donning the traditional white hospital uniform.

"You have a visitor," Perry instantly perked up, "Mr. Spice," and then slouched back down in disappointment.

"Go ahead and send them in," Mr. Spice said happily. Before the nurse could even say anything, three small children ran in and almost tackled the man out of the bed. Perry watched as the two small boys and small girl happily hugged Mr. Spice. He smiled and returned their hugs as best as he could.

"Oh it is so great to see all of you, I was just telling that nice young man over there all about you. Hey sonny, could I ask you a favor?" Mr. Spice looked over to Perry. Reluctantly, he gave a slight nod, though not sure where this was going. The children just stared at him for a minute, unsure of what to think of the man wearing the mask. "My granddaughter was recently discovered to have the gift of magic herself, but we really don't have anyone else in the family that can do it. Think you can teach her a thing or two?" the boys and the girl quickly surrounded Perry jumping up and down. The boys were wearing matching tee shirts and shorts, the only difference was their hair color, one was brown like Perry, and the other was a blonder color. The little girl was wearing a frilly pink dress. Her red hair almost like Applebloom's.

"You are gonna show us magic, mister?" the brown haired boy asked, jumping about quickly.

"Lemme see! Bet you could blow stuff up with your mind!" the blond haired one shouted. The little girl just stayed silent.

"Salt, Pepper, don't go saying things like that. He is also in the hospital after all, so be nice to the young man," Mr. Spice said to his two grandsons. They frowned and looked down. Perry simply chuckled at them.

"It is fine, sir. Your grandchildren are just excited, that's all. I think I can teach something simple," Perry said happily. He looked down at the little girl who had been quiet the entire time. "What is your name?"

"It's Cimmanon...I mean...Cinnamon," she said quietly. He couldn't help but chuckle at the girl's cute response.

"Well ,Cinnamon, my name is Perry. What would you like to learn?" he asked her softly.

"Umm...what's magic?" Perry tilted his head slightly. It was an off question, as he never thought about it himself. It was just a thing and he knew it. Twilight would have been better explaining the more complicated aspects, but he did his best anyways.

"Well... magic is... umm...give me a second here to try and phrase it right," he took a few seconds before he started to speak again. "Magic is basically the ability to take the energy of the land and use it to do neat things," Perry said. An unscientific answer, but he figured Twilight would have approved.

"So you can do neat things then?" she asked, watching him.

"Yup. All I have to do is use the energy for what I need to use it for. Here, it will be easier to demonstrate. Mr. Spice, if you will be so kind to hold out one of the pictures, please?" Perry asked. Mr. Spice happily complied. He then started to concentrate on the picture. "This is one of the first spells that any magic user learns to use. The levitation spell," she watched with curious eyes as he focused on the picture. "Helping hands, guide my will and let me hold the infinite," the picture started to rise and float over to Perry, and made his way into his hand. The children all clapped and smiled. A more advanced user would laugh at Perry's need for the incantation, but he never really used the levitation spell.

"What's with the funny things you said before?" Cinnamon asked Perry. He simply chuckled at the way she asked these questions.

"Well, those funny things are called an incantation. When you're not used to using a spell you have to speak those words. It is like a focus for your brain, and it tells the mana, or the energy I was talking about, what it needs to do. Without the words the mana is confused and won't do what you ask it to, at least until you get used to the feeling of what it is doing," Perry told Cinnamon.

"So mana is alive?" she asked all cutely. He smiled under his mask, noting how the girl was listening to what he was saying. Mr. Spice was smiling at the scene, staying silent to let him lecture. Salt and Pepper were a bit fidgety, but they stayed quiet as well.

"Kind of...It is like the life of the land itself, abundant all across Equestria. Us magic users just have a more sensitive connection with it, but in return we are not as physically strong as those who are less connected. Why don't you try?" he held up the photo. "Imagine the photo being held in the air by a hand you can't see," she looked at the photo and started to concentrate, making an adorable scrunched up face. "Ok now repeat after me, keeping the image of the hand in your head. Helping hands, guide my will..."

"Helping hands, guide my will..." she said quietly, still scrunching up her face.

"...and let me hold the infinite," Perry finished the incantation.

"...and let me hold the in...finite," Cinnamon also finished, though a bit slower trying hard to pronounce infinite correctly.

"Ok now keep thinking that your invisible hand is hold onto the picture and open your eyes," she carefully did as instructed as Perry lowered his hand. The picture stayed where it was for a second, before she gasped and lost concentration, causing it to fall back into his hand. She looked down, sad that she couldn't maintain it for long. Perry gently ruffled her hair and chuckled. "You did a great job for a first time attempt. You should be proud."

"You really think so mister?" Cinnamon looked up at him hopefully.

"Yup. You might even be greater than the wizards of olden times. You just have to practice and work hard," Perry said to her.

"You hear that, Grandpa? I am going to be great!" Perry gave her back the picture. She ran back over to Mr. Spice, who only smiled at her. "Watch this, Grandpa!" she repeated what she did, and after saying the incantation, managed to float the picture for a few seconds before it fell back down. Perry watched her, then noticing out of the corner of his eye, several sets of eyes watching him. He merely chuckled and continued like he didn't notice them.

"Thanks, young man. I know the hospital is an odd place for this. You're a kind man, and from the bottom of my heart, thank you," Mr. Spice looked at Perry. "I just wish I could watch them grow up as well."

"Grandpa, don't be silly, you will be around forever!" Salt said innocently.

"Yeah! The hospital will make it all better!" Pepper responded.

"I'm sure it will, kids. Now it's time to go, Grandpa needs his rest if he is to get better," he smiled at them. They all got up and got ready to go. Each of them gave him a hug.

"Bye grandpa!" they all said in unison. Cinnamon walked up to Perry and gave him a quick hug. Perry awkwardly hugged her back in return.

"Thanks again, Mr. Perry," she said as she walked out the door as well. She peeked back into the room. "Hey Grandpa, are all these strange girls out here your friends as well?" Perry laughed slightly.

"No, they are mine. Tell them they can come in whenever, but they should hurry up! Visiting hours are almost over!" he said loud enough for said girls to hear him. Sure enough, Twilight, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash walked in, each with a huge grin on their faces.

"Aww who knew that you were such a big softie," Rainbow said to Perry, giggling slightly.

"What? I always liked making children happy. It comes with the jester job description, literally. One of the questions on the application was 'do you like to make children happy?'"

"Just ignore her, Perry. We are here to check up on you," Twilight said. "How's your back?"

"Only lost about a pint, so there is nothing to worry about," Perry said nonchalantly. "It itches like crazy, but that's to be expected."

"Perry!" Pinkie started to jump, catching Perry attention. "What kind of balloons should we use for your party, and what kind of cake, and who should we invite, and..."

Twilight stared at Pinkie. "Pinkie calm down, give him some time to..."

"Balloon animals are the way to go, I really liked that cake we had the other day, and who shouldn't we invite!" he chuckled. Everyone stared at the two as they started to talk quickly.

"Oh, Perry, you're just so super awesome! We have got to plan a party together one day!" Pinkie said to him, Twilight and Rainbow groaned loudly.

"Yes! We must make it happen! It will be the biggest thing since the biggest thing ever! There will be dancing!"

"And singing!"

"Games! Lots of games!"

"Fireworks!" Twilight finally interrupted the two, starting to get nervous.

"Ok, he is fine. Let's go so he can rest," Twilight told everyone. Both Pinkie and Perry whimpered towards Twilight. Rainbow Dash was practically in stitches.

"Oh my gosh! Another Pinkie. Can you imagine it?!" Rainbow said between laughs.

"Yes I can, because it DID happen. Now let's go!" Twilight said to them. Rainbow stopped laughing and shuddered in fear at the memory.

"Wait, multiple Pinkies? I want to hear the story!" Perry said, curious.

"Well it started when..." Pinkie was saying when Twilight interrupted her.

"Pinkie!" she yelled to her friend.

"Fine... I'll tell you some other time, Perry!" he nodded and laughed.

"Goodnight, girls. Have a pleasant sleep," he said to them.

"Good night!" they all said to him. He waved as they exited the room. The room was once again filled with quiet, though it didn't last long.

"Quite the crowd of fine dames eyeing ya, sonny," Mr. Spice finally said as the room became peaceful again.

"No no, nothing like that. They are all good friends that helped me out today," Perry told Mr. Spice.

"It would be nice to be that young again, though I am happy with the way I lived my life," Mr. Spice said. "Make sure you do the same, sonny. Don't live with regret in your life," Perry nodded, looking down slightly. The words of the wise.

"Thank you for the advise. If I may ask, how long?" Perry asked him quietly. He felt upset at himself for wanting to kill this man. He wouldn't have actually done it, but still.

"I'll be lucky to see next week, but I am ready to go. I have no regrets and that's all I need," he smiled. Perry looked over to him, tilting his head slightly. "I saw the world, met great friends, fell in love..." Perry, thinking about his own current love dilemma, blushed slightly behind his mask. "...and overall, the little things in life are what I remember the most. When I go on, I can go happy."

"Death isn't something to fear, just what lies beyond. It sounds like you should be fine, so I will wish you well on your trip to the afterlife. Might want to bring something to read though, don't know how long it will be," Mr. Spice laughed lightly at his comment.

"I appreciate that. Too many people only apologize like they could have had a say in it. Just makes me feel sad. I am glad someone understands. Well, time to rest. Maybe I will see you tomorrow...maybe not. Who knows?" he said as he rested back against his pillow. Perry figured he would do the same, needing the rest anyways.

Perry silently walked out of the hospital. He was given a clean bill of health by the doctor, and was free to go except for a check up a week later. Mr. Spice passed on silently in his sleep that night, and Perry could only say goodbye to what remained. Never had death looked so peaceful to him. He wondered what it would be like to die with such serenity.

After a nice walk, stretching out from his lack of movement, Perry found himself by his current residence. As he was about to open the door, he noticed a letter pinned to it. He opened it up to find a rainbow colored note. He started to read it

PERRY!!!! you are invited to the 'I'm glad you and Fluttershy didn't end up as horse chow' party! 8:00 at Sugarcube Corner! BE THERE!!!!

Perry laughed. She actually called the party that. He was starting to think that she might be crazier than him, but not by much. Pocketing the invitation, he figured he would go check on Fluttershy. He wanted to talk to her about yesterday, his thoughts about everything that occurred still bothering him. He knew what had to be done, though he wasn't looking forward to it.

Perry found his way in front of that damned door again. Why did it always seem so hard to approach? He has scaled towers from the outside, climbed mountains, and ran up near endless flights of stairs. Why was a door so hard? He figured staring at it would not solve everything, and didn't want to risk Fluttershy see him enter as a cloud of ash again. Oh how awkward that would be. He chuckled at the mental image of Twilight coming out of nowhere and making him crispy as he appeared. His confidence back after that laugh, he knocked a few times and waited. The door slowly opened as the quiet girl looked out to see who it was.

"Good afternoon, Flutt..." he was interrupted by the wooden door, or more so the wooden door hitting his head as it slammed shut. Thankfully, his mask took the damage for him, but it was still a shock. The door opened again, this time fully to reveal a very sorry looking Fluttershy staring at him, blushing slightly.

"I-I'm sorry... I got nervous and...well..." Perry chuckled at her.

"No worries. Having this thing does have its advantages," Perry said, pointing to his mask.

"Umm...you can come in...if you want..." she said, looking away from him.

"Are you alright, Fluttershy?" he asked. She nodded slightly as she moved out of the way. Perry went and took a seat on the couch, Fluttershy slowly taking a seat next to him. Both remained silent. Perry was honestly nervous right now, wondering what was wrong. She was being more quiet than usual. "I would like to talk about yesterday with you," Perry said to her. She continued to look down, avoiding eye contact, but nodded. "...hmmm where to start," he laughed slightly, embarrassed with his lack of ability to communicate what he we feeling.

"Are you upset?" she asked, looking at him now, still blushing.

"Not at you, heavens no!" Perry said to her. "No, it is more about me than anything else...I don't know what to think really," he said.

"Perry..." Fluttershy wanted to speak to him, but she couldn't find the right words either.

"I...don't think I am the right man for you..." Perry looked down. He could tell without looking that Fluttershy was shocked at this comment. She looked at him for what could have been an hour, even if it was only a few seconds.

"Why do...why do you say that?" she said, trying to hold back her tears. Perry could only continue to stare at the floor. This was the right thing to do. He was no good for someone like her.

"I am not the person you may think I am," he said to her. "We might as well be from two different worlds..."

"...Perry... I..."

"Fluttershy, if you knew what I have done, you would never even want to look at me again," he looked down. That old man...how does one pass without regrets? He wished he could know right now, because he was suddenly weighed down with the regret of all the lives that were taken by his own two hands. He wished it could have been someone else that had done what he had. He wanted to be clean, to be able to take back everything and be able to love her with all of his heart, or at least what was left of it. He was barely able to handle all the pressure.

"Perry...please...don't say that. I know you're not a bad person..." Fluttershy started to speak, but she froze at what she witnessed. She saw tears leaking through the bottom of his mask.

"That is it, Fluttershy! I am a bad person, a horrible person in fact!" he was trying to hold back his emotions, but the dam was cracked, and finally gave way as he started to wail. Never had he felt so much regret for his life. Where there was only one way he wanted to live, now there were two, and they were competing against each other, tearing him apart mentally. Fluttershy stared at him in shock, completely caught off guard. She could only watch as he was breaking down in front of her. "...I can't stand it!" Perry cried. "I just can't be with you! I only ruin everything I have ever set my eyes on... I don't want to ruin you too..."

"Look at me, Perry..." she spoke softly to him. He turned his head slowly to her...unsure of what to say anymore. She slowly reached her hand to his face.

"Fluttershy..." it was all he could say. She gently placed her hand on his mask. He fought to not slap her hand away, not wanting to hurt her. She slowly removed his mask, revealing his face for what it truly looked like right now. His eyes were reddened and puffy, and tears were soaking his face.

"Perry, even if you have done things in the past," she tried her best to smile, even though she could see him breaking apart on the inside. "if you're hurting, it means that you do care about what you have done. A bad person wouldn't be hurting," Perry stared at her, still sniffling slightly. "No matter what you have done, I will still forgive you as long as you're willing to forgive yourself."

Fluttershy was right, and he needed to hear that. Could he forgive himself? He had done what was necessary to keep the people of Equestria safe, but it could be argued that he had done it for himself as well. He couldn't keep up the act anymore. She needed to know the truth about him. He wasn't willing to accept her kindness without laying all of the cards on the table. If she did accept him for what he was, then maybe, just maybe, he could try to be with her. If not, then he could end this agony he suffered and go back to what he was without any regrets. The last of his emotions would die, and he could continue to be the merciless psycho he enjoyed being. He trusted her enough to show his face, and he wanted her to know why he believed he couldn't be with her, even though he wanted to.

"Fluttershy...I need to tell you..." he calmed himself down now, taking a deep breath. "I am an assassin for the royal court..."

The Crazy Thing About Revelations

Chapter 12: The Crazy Thing About Revelations

"I kill people..." Perry said, trying to remain calm. Never had he told anyone this straight out. "This...is why...you should not be near me."

Fluttershy looked at him, her eyes wide with shock. She didn't know what to think. She thought it was something simple, but this was different. What do you say to hearing that someone you know is a contract killer?

"You're... an assassin?" she quietly asked, still not sure how to react.

"Yes. I figured you of all people deserve the truth. I have spent most of my life hunting others down, be it for profit, as in my youth, or for Equestria's sake. It may have been at the orders of others...but in reality, I enjoy it," Perry stopped for a minute to let the weight of his words sink in. Fluttershy was silent. She stared at him, listening to his every word. "At least I thought I enjoyed it..." he looked down, tears welling up in his eyes once again. "I don't know! I can't think straight anymore! Ever since that night where I saved you, I have been..."

"They...haven't been seen for days...did you?" she asked him slowly. He nodded, causing her to gasp slightly.

"I did. But that was the first time... since my first kill that I could not enjoy it... At the time, I couldn't put it together. It was just different and I didn't know what that meant to me," Perry looked at Fluttershy. "So now you know why I am horrible."

"I...don't..." Perry watched her struggle to speak. "I don't believe you're a bad person..." Perry's eyes widened in shock.

"How could you still believe that!? I don't even believe that! I'm a bloody murderer! A psycho!" Perry yelled, causing Fluttershy to flinch. He looked down, staring at his hands. Though clean now, the image reminded him of all the blood that they have spilt. "I don't deserve to ever be with you..." Fluttershy was unsure of what to do or say. She sat there in silence, trying to salvage what was left of Perry, not wanting him to be out of her life. She could tell he wasn't the monster he claimed to be, even if what he said was true. There was more to it. She remembered back a week ago. She met someone who seemed to be bad, but in reality, all he wanted, all that he needed, was a friend.

"I recently got to know someone a short time before you came," Fluttershy spoke quietly. Perry listened to her, but wouldn't look at her. "Discord. I am sure you know who he is," Perry nodded, looking up at the mention of the god of chaos. "He did all sorts of bad things to Equestria, and made many people miserable. He made a mess of everything and made everyone unhappy before he was sealed away. Princess Celestia brought him here one day, to give him a second chance..." second chance. Perry thought back on those words to his first meeting with the sun goddess himself. Where others would have had him executed for his horrendous crimes, she wanted to give him a second chance. To this day, he had constantly asked himself why, never coming closer to an answer. "He couldn't admit it to himself...but he was lonely. All those years and he just couldn't figure out that all he wanted was someone to call him a friend," she smiled gently.

"I don't know why you do what you do, but I can tell that you're not a bad person, just as he wasn't," Fluttershy looked into his eyes as she spoke, forcing herself to be the strong one right now. "Both of you did horrible things, and it hurts me to think about what you have done..." Perry looked back down. "But you want to be a better person. You do nice things for people. You show you care about them and even willing to help them. If you were different when you arrived, I couldn't tell. You have done nothing but be kind to me, treat me like a friend, and even put your faith in me when you couldn't take the pressure. I...need someone like you, Perry. Honest, strong, and kind..."

Perry was lost in his emotions now. She accepted him. He didn't know what it meant to feel so free until this very moment. "Even with everything that I am?" Fluttershy nodded slowly. They sat in silence, giving him time to soak in all of this information.

"You may have been the horrible person you think you are once, but the man in front of me is different. You do it not just for yourself, but also for others. How many lives have you saved?" Fluttershy asked Perry. He never thought about it like that. He only remembered his victims' essence soaking him, and his love of the kill. But how many people has he protected? Celestia and Luna never had him do anything unless she felt it was absolutely necessary. He thought about several attempts on Celestia herself that his brutal response prevented. Where would the country be right now if he didn't react? There was so much more at stake then Perry thought to realize. Even so, how he acts in battle is not that of a hero. He loved it. The feel of the blood of his enemies, watching their dying breaths, and even going so far as mutilating the corpses when he was done. He was still far from clean.

"I still enjoy it though...and I have done terrible things. I would rather not go into detail, but it still has been done..." Fluttershy moved in closer to him. Looking into his eyes, she spoke gently.

"It is in the past now..." she looked at Perry, holding herself back, not wanting to make any mistakes with the fragile man. "So, what do you want now?"

It was a simple question, and the answer even simpler. He knew how he felt thanks to her kind words and understanding. He was afraid of losing her, more so than anything else. All of these words, all of his regrets that he bared loose for her to know. All of his anguish was because he was in a state of complete fear. Because of one simple reason.

"I don't want to lose you..." he started to cry again, gently and slowly. "I can't change my life, and I don't want to, because I still help protect the people. I most importantly want to protect you, Fluttershy. Even if you don't want to be with me anymore, you are always going to be important to me...and nothing will ever take that from me. I don't fight for myself, I fight for you, your friends, your dreams and happiness, and the happiness of those who can't do what I do. If it means shouldering the burden of every citizen out there, I will gladly be a monster so others can live peacefully. Most importantly though...I want to be able to love you and will do everything in my power to never let you feel the weight that this world can put apon you!"

Fluttershy started to cry as well. She had hoped that he understand himself, but she never expected him to feel so strongly for her. He seemed so different now, so at peace. His smile he gave her as he watched her stunned reaction was all she needed. It was a genuine smile that she could say belonged only to her. She jumped into his arms and kissed him tenderly. He held onto her tightly, feeling her warmth against his chest. This time, for both of them, this moment felt right. She broke off the kiss slowly, and stared into his eyes, which after so many years of a cold decent into loneliness and darkness, were now so full of compassion and warmth.

"I want to be able to love you too, Perry," Fluttershy said happily. He could not have been any more content than he was right there in her arms. He wanted the moment to last for all of time, never fading.

"Hey, Fluttershy," Perry finally spoke, his newly discovered smile shining brightly for her to see. "I know I am doing this backwards, but would you be my date to your friend's party tonight?" he laughed slightly, making her smile as well.

"I would love to, but what party are you talking about?" Perry looked at Fluttershy, wondering if she had received the invitation yet. He was about to tell her when the door suddenly burst open, prompting Perry to panic. He was not wearing his mask, and besides with Fluttershy, doubted he could handle being seen by anyone else. One person in six years is an accomplishment enough, any more and he might suffer a nervous breakdown. This prompted him to dive over the couch and hide, startling Fluttershy, who was absolutely lost at everything going on. The figure who burst through the door was none other than Pinkie, dressed in a pink messenger uniform complete with a pink hat. She then proceeded to sing to Fluttershy, who had still not recovered from the shock of the insane two seconds.

It is time to party,

And a party we shall do!

Invited to this party!

A party just for you!

Party party party!!!

Tonight my place at eight!

We are going to party

And it will be great!

His current position behind and under the couch a second though, Perry couldn't help but feel left out by only getting a written invitation. "How come I didn't get a singing invitation?" Perry said without thinking, essentially blowing his cover.

"Perry?" Pinkie said, confused. She looked at the couch and gasped. Fluttershy blushed slightly as Pinkie came to a revelation. "Fluttershy, did Perry turn into a couch?" Fluttershy could only stare at her friend. It would be senseless to try and figure out why that was the first question to cross her mind. Pinkie walked up to her friends, and patted the arm of the couch. "It will be ok, Perry. I'll get Twilight to fix you."

"Pinkie, I am not a couch," he laughed. She looked over the couch to see Perry sticking his head underneath it.

"What are you doing down there, silly?" she ask Perry.

"Just...inspecting the underside of Fluttershy's couch to make sure it is a good couch! Fluttershy, if I may say you have done an excellent job keeping it clean down here. You should...see...for yourself," he said to Fluttershy, hoping she would get the hint. She noticed the object she left to the side of her and quickly she got down from the front. Looking under, could see Perry's nervous pouting face, almost begging her. She giggled slightly, sliding the mask she had in her hand towards him. He quickly planted his face into the mask and pulled himself out of the couch and stood up. Perry's eyes met Pinkie's as she stared at him curiously. "My question from before still remains though. Why did I only get a written invitation and she gets the song routine?" Perry said, whimpering slightly.

"I wanted to, silly, but you were still at the hospital, and they didn't want me bringing in my tuba. Something about disturbing the peace," Pinkie said with a look of honest confusion.

"Darn. That sounds simply amazing. The audacity of them, not allowing such a wonderful instrument to be played. I will have to have a heart to heart talk with the director there," Perry said, shaking his head.

"Well I would stay, but I have more invitations to deliver. See you two at the party!" with that, Pinkie zoomed out of Fluttershy's house. Fluttershy and Perry stared at each other for a few seconds, before snickers started to exit from Perry, with Fluttershy following suit. Soon the snickering became laughter as all the tension that had been built up for the last half hour had suddenly been released, both of them holding their sides as they continued to laugh whole-heartedly. Finally catching their breaths, both of them calmed down. They looked at each other for a few seconds before Perry started to walk to the door. Fluttershy watched him as he went to open the door.

"Perry...where are you going?" Fluttershy asked, a bit nervous about him leaving now. He slowly turned around.

"Fluttershy...I am truly sorry to leave now, but the truth is...I have nothing nice to wear!" he blurted out loud. "I have a date with this beautiful girl tonight, and I can't go like this!" Fluttershy only looked at him, slightly lost, before she understood what Perry was saying and started to blush. "I mean, I have to pick her up at half past seven, and I don't even have any presentable clothes!" he said to her, with the best acted despair he could muster up. Fluttershy giggled at the way he was acting. It definitely made her more at ease, knowing he wasn't so distraught anymore. "I must bid you farewell for now Fluttershy! I will see you tonight."

"I will see you later as well, if that's alright with you," she said to Perry. He nodded and smiled he walked out the door. He turned around gave her a bow before closing the door. As Perry walked to the boutique, he noted that the sun was nice and warm today, even nice than usual.

"Please, Rarity, I need your help!" Perry said as he stood at the open door to the Carousal Boutique. Rarity stood there with her hand on her chin, deep in thought.

"So, let me see if I have my facts correct here, Sir Perry. You need me to make a nice outfit for you in less than two hours for the party tonight, because you want to look somewhat impressive," Rarity said as she looked at Perry.

"That is basically it. Will it be possible?" he asked her.

"Of course it is possible. But I honestly don't know what I can do that will match...that dreadful thing on your face," Perry gasped, not taking her opinion well. "I can't lie to you anymore darling, it is ugly and makes me want to hit you in the face with a hammer just to break it and never have to stare at it again," Rarity told Perry. He looked stunned and shocked at the comment, or at least he would have had she been able to see his face.

"What's wrong with my mask? It is fun and happy," he said sadly.

"It is creepy and needs to go," Rarity said firmly. "I can't possibly make an outfit based around it!"

"Well I will not remove my mask," Perry said defensively. "I offer a compromise. I can't say I am fond of it, though I trust you enough to be willing to do this..." Perry said to her. She listened, baffled at his remark. Her questions were quickly answered when he reached into his shirt, and pulled out something that shocked and amazed Rarity. "This is a blank mask... I usually do my own work, but I trust you can do something about my suit if you didn't have to worry about my face, am I right?" Rarity grasped the mask, looking it over. It was a blank canvas, ready to be painted on and then worn. The tinted windows for the eyes were already in place for Perry to be able to hide his eyes as well.

"You...carry a blank mask on you?" she asked curiously. He laughed at Rarity's comment, shaking his head.

"Actually, I had a feeling this would happen, so I picked it up from my home. Think about it Rarity. A chance to design the perfect masquerade style outfit. Functional, yet still suave, only adding the mystery on the man behind it, making him the most interesting person to talk to. Nothing to formal that I can only wear it on small occasions, but definitely not an everyday outfit," Rarity hung onto his every word, her imagination flaring with thoughts about what his new look would look like. Perry was used to higher life style, so it was no surprise that he could pick up a few things on how to impress, not that he ever did care on impressing. "Finally, I want it to look nice no matter who I would go with, I would match their outfit as to not stand out in contrast, but accentuate both of us," Rarity raised an eyebrow at this last request, giving a girlish grin.

"So do you have someone in mind, Sir Perry?" she looked at him, the curiosity making her all giddy inside.

"Oh Rarity, you of all people should know a gentleman never tells," he chuckled causing her to pout slightly. "So now about that suit..." he said to her, awaiting her response. "...If it can be done you will be well rewarded," Perry chuckled, pulling out a jingling bag. "Five hundred bits should be fair."

"Sweetie, you obviously don't know me well enough. You're not only one of my friends now, but you possibly helped all of Ponyville yesterday. Now come in! I have measurements to take," Rarity practically dragged Perry into her workshop, and with a flick of her wrist, called over a roll of measuring tape. Holding a clipboard and using her magic to keep the tape afloat, she took all of Perry's sizes to make the outfit.

"Kind of loose if you could, if I can't move about freely, I might just go crazy," Perry said to her. She nodded, not removing her eyes from the clipboard. The measurements finally complete, Rarity began to pull out bolts of fabric, cutting it into proper size, using only a pair of fabric shears and her levitation spell. Perry watched as she multitasked so fluently, her concentration perfectly divided between her two tasks. Perry went to take a seat when Rarity suddenly spoke to him.

"Make sure to stick around, I don't want to have to look for you when it comes time to fit it," she said to him.

"Of course, I'll be in the waiting room when you need me. Until then I shall let you get back to work," Perry waved before exiting the workshop.

He has been there for about an hour now, deep in his own thoughts. It had definitely been a day to remember, with so much that has happened, it would be hard for Perry to fall asleep tonight. He left the Hospital that day, needing to tell Fluttershy that they couldn't be together, and yet he was the one who couldn't deal with being without her. Maybe he finally snapped so bad that he had actually went sane. He chuckled at the thought of it happening.

Thinking of the forest now, and what happened there, he couldn't help but think back to Zecora as well. He could have handled the situation better, and instead he was unusually cruel to her. Granted she decided to poke at him with a knife, but her intentions were not only good, they were well founded. He figured he owed her an apology. Laughing to himself, Perry thought back as he never apologized for his actions. Fluttershy was a bad influence on him, making him think about right and wrong. Everyone needs to contemplate there actions every now and then, so even he could be an exception. He decided on a mental checklist to help him sort himself out. Possibly bi-polar, liked to act like a lunatic when the situation called for it, especially battle, and definitely with self respect and emotion issues. He was certainly institution material, but he liked being outside better. All in all, though, he could be happy with what he did, not because he was a killer, but because he protected Equestria in a way few would be able to do. And he could accept that.

"Perry!" his thoughts were quickly interrupted by Rarity, who stared at him annoyed. Perry turned his head to look at her. "I have been calling you for the last minute, where were you?"

"My apologizes, I was just thinking about recent events and how great this vacation has been for me so far," he said happily. Rarity smiled at him.

"Ponyville has that effect on others. I didn't think I would like it here at first either, but you would be surprised at how this place grew on me," Rarity told Perry. "Well anyways, I wanted you to try on your new suit," Perry looked at her in surprise.

"You finished it already?!" She grinned at his response.

"Of course. A mans outfit is easier to design than a dress. It's just harder to actually make," Perry got up and decided to see what it would look like. What he saw ended up surprising him. The suit itself was a simple black. It had white lines in a diamond shape all across the jacket. The pants also simple, just going along the plain black, but they looked quite nice none the less. Perry's biggest thing was the mask though. He walked up and picked it up. The paint job was also simple, but it could easily draw attention to him. Criss crossing diagonal lines all across the mask made it look so sophisticated, especially since she didn't paint on a mouth. Perry believed that it would have ruined the design anyways. Overall, a black with white and a white with black. Looking at them, he was easily reminded of himself.

"This is...Rarity I can't just accept this for free," Perry told her. "It is beyond exquisite."

"Well I won't accept any bits for this, but I do love the compliments so you can keep giving me those," Rarity grinned. He laughed slightly at her comment. "I figured that the diamond theme you had would look good...without all the ugly colors," she said explaining her work. "I wanted to make your mask something that you could wear anywhere, so I decided on just the simple black lines, as they would easily add mystery to your appearance, as well as draw eyes towards you," Perry picked up the suit and went into the changing room. A few minutes later, he walked out, dressed in the outfit he was given and loving it.

"Seriously, Rarity, it is stunning work. You did a great job in making them loose without looking saggy," Perry told her, nodding in approval.

"It was my pleasure, Perry. You just remember to tell people where you got it," she said to him. Perry was feeling good, and looking sharp. He was ready to go, and now all that needed to be done was go to Fluttershy's and bring her to the party, and then he could proceed with making the night the best night in his life. After everything that had happened since arriving, what could possibly go wrong?

The Crazy Thing About The Behemoth

Chapter 14: The Crazy Thing About The Behemoth

"Shit.." Perry said at the fast approaching foot ready to crush him and Fluttershy. At this point there was little that he could do, as most options ended bad anyways. He decided to at least try and save Fluttershy, as tossing her away from the giant foot would keep her safe for now. As he was about to make his move, he was tackled hard by a blur, and sent flying away from the impact zone. The foot hitting the ground cracked it, possibly shaking all of Ponyville. Lights in buildings turned on and screams and yelling could be heard almost everywhere. Perry looked up from where he landed, Fluttershy still safe in his arms, and noticed a heavily breathing Rainbow Dash.

"You... ok?" she asked between breaths. Perry nodded quickly and handed her Fluttershy without a moments hesitation.

"Rainbow, what I am about to tell you is important. Take her to your friends, and have Twilight contact Celestia immediately. Tell her to send backup for a code five emergency, and use the code name Pierriot in the letter. Can you do that?" Perry looked at the slow moving but overly dangerous beast.

"Umm Celestia, Pierriot, backup. Got it...are you really going to stay behind and try and fight this thing?" she asked, concerned for her friends well being.

"I hear you, Dash. Sounds absolutely crazy to me too... Once you give Twi the message, I need you to help evacuate Ponyville. To be fair, I don't know how long I can hold this thing off, or even if I can..." Perry said to her.

"Don't do anything stupid you hear me!" she said as she got ready to fly off. "If you do anything to make her cry, so help me..." she warned him, but still maintained her serious look. Perry nodded towards Rainbow, and with that, she took off like a bolt of lightning. Perry shifted his eyes at the overwhelming beast, attempting to discover something of use.

"Slow moving, but could obviously crush the entire town in the night," Perry needed to do his best to slow it down further. He started to chant, preparing a spell. "Hold down that which soars. Bind down to the land in which we walk. Give way to all that resides, granting an everlasting stability. Cast out all who seek to defile the simple law and back onto the rock of origin," he raised his hand, aiming his technique at the beast. "Gravity Field!" a dome of a light purple energy surrounded the giant, as its movements were slowed down considerably. The spell wasn't nearly as powerful as its modified for destruction version, but that wasn't meant to hold down others as it was to crush them, and with the size of this thing, that would just be a small inconvenience for it anyways.

Perry maintained his magic hold on the field, using as much control as he could manage to forcibly increase the gravity around the beast, slowing its movement. Overall, it was still mobile, just much slower. Perry wasn't sure what else he could do, so he waited and hoped for help to arrive.

"Are you sure that's everything, Rainbow?" Twilight checked with her heavily breathing friend as she rested.

"Yes...code five...send backup for Pierriot...evacuate..." Rainbow said to Twilight quickly, her adrenaline on full steam as she twitched about nervously. People in the background were panicking and screaming at the sight of the beast, which could be easily seen from several miles away. Twilight watched as a purple field surrounded the beast. Years of practice and way too many books had given Twilight the experience to identify the field as a gravity field. Not wanting to sit back when she could help, she started to run towards the beast herself.

"Go tell Spike to write the letter and send it! Perry can't last much longer trying to hold a field like that! Then get Spike and Fluttershy to safety. Everyone else, start evacuating!" all of Twilights friends nodded, and each of them went on to do their assigned task.

Twilight ran as fast as she could, thankful that most of the people were at Pinkie's party. She secretly had thanked Pinkie for her random event, it's presence making it easier to get the people together and away. Twilight ran as fast as she could towards the monster and the field, preparing to cast the same spell herself. Twilight waited until she was next to a very surprised Perry, then began to chant. "Hold down that which soars. Bind down to the land in which we walk. Give way to all that resides, granting an everlasting stability. Cast out all who seek to defile the simple law and back onto the rock of origin!" her own field overlapped with Perry's, the beast letting out a wail as the force of gravity on him grew exponentially.

"Twilight...I would say what the hell do you think you're doing...but I am actually really glad to see you. You get my message?" he asked, trying not to let up on the spell.

"Yes...Rainbow should be with Spike now sending the message..." the ground shook hard, causing the two to wobble, but remain focused as the beast managed another step towards them. It was obviously very unhappy with being held down, but was no where near stopping.

"Good," Perry having more time to focus, had come it with a plan of action. It was a very bad idea and stupid at it's best, but it was a still a plan. "Actually, I have a new plan and I need a good support caster right now..." Perry said to Twilight, making sure she was listening. Her head turned towards him and he knew he had her undivided attention. "On my mark, release the gravity field and make a run for the open fields. We need to prevent as much damage as possible, and between the shaking and the gravity, I don't think the structures will hold much longer anyways.".

"Are you crazy?!" she yelled at Perry. "You actually want to let that thing chase us?!"

"Yes," he simply said to Twilight, who's eye twitched slightly. "Trust me, I know what I am doing."

"Yeah, been meaning to ask...how in the blazes did this happen and how do you know such powerful magic?" she asked him.

"Can we please talk about that later when we are 'not' in mortal danger!" he yelled at her. She flinched, nodded quickly as she realized he was right. "I am preparing to break off the gravity spell. You will need to go at it double-time while I get ready..."

"Ready for what?" she asked, though getting herself ready to increase her output.

"Something I am seriously going to regret in the morning..." he sighed as she looked at him, worried that he was going to do something extremely foolish and stupid. She was right.

"Proliferation apon ourselves, granting the feeble a chance..."

"Perry!" Twilight yelled towards him. "You are not going to use what I think you are, are you?!" Perry ignored her as he continued to chant.

"Send the power to ring destruction onto thyself, giving even the weak the power of the strong..."

"Darn it, Perry! Don't use that spell! It could kill you!" Twilight yelled, trying her best to hold her concentration, but was faltering as the beast was gaining speed.

"AUGMENTATION!" he finished. Twilight knew that spell herself, having studied many kinds of magic. This one was forbidden to be used, though. Instead of directing mana, it forced it inwards towards the caster, turning its energy into raw physical power. The effect was evident as Perry's body twitched, and grew out slightly, screaming in what sounded like pure agony as his body struggled to withhold the magical energy. Finally settling down, he yelled out to Twilight. "Release the field," she did so, and as she did, he picked her up and dashed towards the open fields. The beast started as well, gaining momentum from its own movements chasing after them.

Perry wasn't fond of the use of augment either, but in order for him to be able to run quickly with Twilight, he needed the physical boost it offered. It wasn't the first time he had to use it, and it certainly wouldn't be the last. He knew the risk, the effects, and the outcome of using it. He also knew his own limit, and knew when he had to stop.

"Perry, what were you thinking?!" she yelled at him as they ran. He ignored her, trying to focus on preventing the magic inside him now from shredding his entire body apart. Twilight could only watch, now. It was obvious that he was overclocking himself to keep them away from the monster giving them chase., Twilight, not being nearly as athletic as her friends, would not be able to keep up with Perry going at half speed normally. Her thoughts were quickly interrupted by Perry's voice.

"Twilight, gravity field!" he said as he ran through the fields with the behemoth right behind him. She nodded and quickly recasted the spell. She concentrated it around the leg it was about to raise, and activated it. It was caught by surprise, and from its momentum, tripped and fell, sliding at full speed at the two. Perry maintained his speed, but running out of steam quickly. He was at his limit, and knew that any further would definitely kill him. Even so, Twilight was strong, and he could leave the rest to her, at least until help would arrive. The monster had finally come to a stop. Perry stopped running as well, and released the mana stored in his body. He put Twilight down, and fell to his knees. Twilight tried to help him up, but he quickly raised his hand, holding it in front of her, coughing heavily. Between his coughs he managed to speak. "You...keep that... monster from getting... up, I am counting on you..." he let out a violent cough, blood dripping down from the bottom of his mask. Twilight started to panic, but she wasn't going to let his actions go to waste.

She focused the gravity field again over the monster, forcing it down into the ground with as much magical force as she could possibly manage. Perry could only watch with blurry eyes as she managed a much stronger magical output then he ever could. Twilight truly was deserving the title of Element of Magic. She was obviously struggling, but her efforts were effective, as the flailing giant couldn't get its bearings together to rise up. Perry needed this time to rest, but she wasn't going to be able to manage it long. Taking a deep breath, he slowly started to stand, moving next to Twilight.

"Twilight...let me help..." he said to her, still breathing heavily.

"Perry, I can handle this!" Twilight yelled, still under the stress of maintaining enough gravitational force for holding it down. "You can't focus mana in your current state. If you do, the shock could kill you," Twilight said to him. "Don't worry, if I let you get killed, Fluttershy would never speak to me. Take a breather, Perry. I will be able to handle this," she spoke, almost with a cocky tone in her voice. Perry wanted to disagree, but she was right, and backup would be on the way. He hoped she could handle it, and decided to rest. Arguing with her never ended well for him anyways. He slowly slipped into unconsciousness, falling gracefully towards the ground.

Twilight knew the worst of the side effects for augment were over, but being alone now made the task so much more frustrating. How long could she hold this thing down before she too lost consciousness?

It didn't take all that long, no more than five minutes for the field to slowly lose its effectiveness. The beast was gaining its strength back, almost pulling itself up. Twilight let out a surge into the field to push it back down, but that was as much as she had left in her tank. The field slowly started to disappear, and she fell to her knees, panting heavily. It was all over for her, her magical energy officially on empty. She watched as the beast got up and made his way toward them, moving slowly as to avoid anymore tricks like before. Before it could make it halfway, it stopped, a magical aura starting to take hold of it. It started to flail around as the aura held it in place. Twilight looked around in surprise, trying to find the one casting the spell. She smiled happily as she looked at her mentor, Princess Celestia. She walked towards her student gracefully, and gently rubbed her shoulder.

"You did a good job, Twilight. You can rest now. Me and Luna will handle it from here," Celestia told Twilight.

"Luna is here as well?" Twilight asked. Celestia pointed over to where Perry was, Luna standing over him with a smile on her face.

"So the mighty is still just a man in the end," Luna laughed slightly, staring over Perry's unconscious body.

"I ...can still hear you, Princess Luna," a voice came from the downed Perry. Luna jumped back slightly as he slowly got back to his feet. "You're...not very nice to me, Luna. It makes me sad..." he said, laughing lightly despite what he said.

"Luna, enough fooling around, there is still a castle sized monster to deal with," Celestia said to her sister, who nodded in return. Luna walked to Celestia's side, and grabbed her hand, as they focused a spell together. Without the need for an incantation, they cast a spell, not directed at the beast, but at Perry. His body glowed from the gentle white energy encircling it, his muscle pain and fatigue fading away quickly. He never felt better than he did now, but he looked at Celestia and Luna, puzzled.

"Why help me up? Surely you could handle it by yourselves," Perry said to the Princesses.

"Our magic doesn't fair well against evil creations like this. Artificial creatures can't be swayed or calmed in the way that living beings could," Twilight gasped slightly as she figured it out. This wasn't a biological creature, but one manufactured from earth and dark magic.

"A golem, right?" she asked Celestia. She nodded, and looked towards Luna.

"Luna, take Twilight and leave this area," Luna nodded and picked Twilight up.

"Don't worry, young Twilight. Our sister knows what she is doing, so have faith in her," Luna told Twilight as she started to fly off, carrying her to a safe location. Perry and Celestia smiled as they were far enough now.

"Pierriot, I hereby release your limiter, deal destruction to thy enemies," Celestia said to Perry, as he could only smile. This wasn't a real living being, so there was no reason to regret it now. Not that he would, but it would be one less thing on his conscience for brutally and utterly destroying without a shred of empathy. He removed his mask and stared at the behemoth.

"As you command, my Princess," he laughed, staring at the target with glee. "It's been awhile since I have been able to use this. I do hope you are ready to contain the fallout..." Perry said to Celestia. "Last time. Luna almost failed. I am sure that this will be different..."

"Remember, Perry. Ponyville is close by, so only go long enough to finish off the golem," he nodded, his red eye starting to give a sickening glow.

"Darkness everlasting..." Perry began to cast a spell. "Void where no light is allowed to tread. Lost in time and space, the origin of all and the end of existence. Howls and echoes silenced and faces lost to eternal nothingness," his body started to glow with a dark aura, collecting a massive amount of ambient mana from within the darkness that resided in the world. Celestia knew about this spell, choosing to stand behind him, and started charging the spell she would need to go along with it to prevent the possibility of a national catastrophe. "Missing amongst the stars, and searching for the creator, I invoke thee, come to my aid and rid thy foes from this plane..." Celestia prepared herself as Perry finished the spell

"Black Hole's Desolation!" using the dark mana he had been collecting, Perry focused it into a small orb, no bigger than a marble. He held out his hand, the orb following it as it moved. Pointing his hand towards the golem, Perry focused energy into the palm and launched the orb at a slow pace towards the monster. He stayed still, his blue eye closed as his red eye focused on the orb. "Spatial distortion is low. No anomalies present to disrupt or prematurely activate the black hole," Perry told Celestia, who watched in a small twinge of terror at what she was beholding. Perry's potential at time and space magic was nearly unrivaled and the vast potential behind it made the impossibly long incantations worth it.,at least when paired with a good support magic user. When paired with a Princess?

"Preparing to remove my hold of the beast," Celestia said to Perry, who nodded. The field around the beast gave way, allowing it to stand. But it was too late as the orb made its way towards the middle of its back. In one swift motion, Perry closed his hand as Celestia erected a barrier around the entire beast. The orb stopped, and just like that, there was nothing but black where it stopped. The beast was far from fine though, as bits of it were being ripped off of it, almost like it was disintegrating. It continued to suck in the golem, pulling it off the ground itself, despite its size.

Perry and Celestia remained in complete focus, for if either of them faltered at their task, the hole could go out of control and start to pull everything into it. The interior of the barrier had started to go black, a side effect of the black hole absorbing even light into it. Perry remained focused, even smiling that sick satisfying smile of the killer he was. Celestia could see why Luna could be unnerved by him. The way he smiled he could have very well have been getting off on his actions.

"Preparing to close the hole. Ready the barrier for the gravitational backlash," Perry told Celestia. She focused all of her energy into the barrier, getting ready for the hole to close.

"Ready! Do it now!" she yelled. Perry closed the hole. Immediately, the closing had created a flux of energy as gravity returned to normal within the area. The barrier expanded slightly, but for the most part it held itself well. Lowering it once the area had returned to normal, Celestia and Perry seen exactly what they had hoped for. Nothing. Even the ground around the area was gone, leaving a gaping crater where it all stood. They both took a seat, breathing heavily.

"Perry, you are amazing. Terrifying, but amazing..." Celestia said to Perry. He gave a simple thumbs up and a smile.

"It was more fun...knowing I wasn't killing anything...Wouldn't have changed anything...but I would prefer to not use this one on living beings if I can help it..." Perry said, Celestia looked at him with a bit of shock.

"Look at that, the great mighty psycho has developed a soft spot," she grinned towards him.

"The way you say that makes it almost seem like this was your goal...and don't get all cute with me or I'll have to kill you too," Perry chuckled, picking his mask up. They stared at each other for a few minutes before both of them broke into laughter.

"Maybe it was one of my goals," Celestia told him as they were calming down from the laughter. "By the way, I was wondering what the reason for leaving one eye open was. Is it some kind of focus technique?" she looked at Perry. He simply smiled and put his mask back on.

"No. It is just meant to make me look like a bad ass," he said, causing Celestia to burst into laughter once again. "What? I can look like a bad ass if I want to, can't I?"

"Fine, you can be a, as you say, bad ass. That display was truly impressive to be deserving of such titles," she told Perry as she nodded.

"Offer to teach you it still stands," he told her. Celestia smiled and shook her head.

"It is an interesting offer, but there are some spells I would prefer die with there creator, no offense," Perry chuckled and looked at her.

"None taken. It is a rather gruesome spell, I suppose. I am sure that could easily cause a cataclysmic disaster...but it's so much fun!" Perry said jumping up and down excitedly.

They rested for a bit, Perry telling Celestia what had occurred before the golem was sent to them. She looked down at the mention of the dark figure.

"That is the real reason I have asked you to stay here, Perry," he looked at her, shocked slightly. "I did not want to deceive you, but if I had sent you here like any of your missions, you would have never let yourself be seen, and never had a chance to make all the friends you have. It was something I felt you needed, so if you wish to be mad at me, I can understand," Perry sat there in silence, Celestia nervous at what he was actually thinking. He turned towards her.

"It's alright Celestia, I should be thanking you," Perry said quietly, no hint of sarcasm in his voice. "I have truly met wonderful people, and even more so someone who gives me something to fight for rather than just myself. I truly am grateful, but..." he started to chuckle. "You ever lie like that again, and I will have to sneak into your room while you're sleeping..." she looked at him, with a bit of concern. "...and take pictures of you. The presses would love to see that. Don't even think I am not capable!"

"I'll put you on the moon..." she dryly said to him, giving him a blank stare. He laughed at her comment, believing her but still it wouldn't stop him.

"Right, I'll just have to be on my best behavior then, won't I?" Perry said sarcastically. As a person, Celestia enjoyed talking with Perry, because he was the only one she knew that didn't treat her like anything special, and that gave her a bit of comfort.

A group of girls and a younger boy made there way to the chatting Celestia and Perry, staring in awe at the crater where the beast used to be. Rainbow still had an unconscious Fluttershy in her arms, enabling Perry to give a small sigh of relief. Twilight and Spike approached, Twilight unable to speak while looking at the huge hole in the ground. Spike walked up to Perry. "What happened to the monster," Perry and Celestia gave each other a slight nod. Both of them turned to the group.

"Nothing happened," they said at the same time. They both started to laugh at their joke. Luna, who caught on quickly, sighed at how bad it was. The rest of them gave a puzzled look, only causing Celestia and Perry to laugh harder. It was a good day overall to Perry as he thought back on the days events. It had a rocky start, an interesting middle, and one hell of an evening, but overall things went as well as could be expected. Minus the several broken down houses and pissed townsfolk, but you can't make an omelette without causing some property damage. Perry at least thought that is what the saying was, but trivial facts, not important.

The Crazy Thing About The Test

Chapter 15: The Crazy Thing About The Test

Everyone had gathered in Twilight's library after the attack of the giant beast. There were questions, and lots of them. With both Celestia and Luna there, more than a good few of them could be answered. Twilight sat at her desk, quill and inkwell ready to record anything that could prove to be useful to her. Perry, and the now awake Fluttershy, sat on the couch, the former slightly irked by Rainbow Dash's insistence on sitting between the two. It didn't make it better that Rainbow constantly flashed him a cheeky smile that pretty much screamed 'What are you gonna do about it?' Pinkie and Spike were in the kitchen, preparing snacks for everyone who was there. Rarity and Applejack were sitting on the floor in front of the couch, Rarity needing at least three pillows to be comfortable. The two princesses remained standing in front of the group, feeling somewhat awkward about being put on the spot like this. With everyone ready, Twilight was the first to raise the question on everyone's mind.

"Ok, what happened to the golem?" Twilight wasn't an expert on magic for nothing. She had read up on all sorts of magical spells and abilities, and has yet to find a spell that causes destruction on that magnitude. "Things like that don't just disappear. I saw the princesses barrier around it, but what I can't figure out is that sudden darkness. Where did it come from and where did it go?" she asked the two of them.

"Well, Twilight, I guess it is beyond hiding now. Is this alright with you, Perry?" Celestia looked at Perry.

"I consider them all friends, and after an extensive amount of soul searching as of late, I have accepted that part of myself. I feel that they all deserve the truth as well. Good friends shouldn't hide secrets from one another, especially if they could put them at risk. I am not to pleased with it, but it is the right thing to do. I just ask all of you to not think any less of me once she tells you my not so grand tale," Perry said, hanging his head slightly.

"That was very well said, Perry. As you girls know, Equestria has been fairly peaceful for a very long time. Myself and Luna, save her thousand year..." Luna looked down slightly, Celestia deciding to quickly change the topic. "Anyways, we have done our best to preserving the peace. In many instances, the Elements of Harmony have been used to help fend off great threats to Equestria," the group listened in carefully to her words, including Pinkie and Spike, who walked out with several plates of cookies and glasses of milk. "Milk and cookies? Don't mind if I..." Luna grunted slightly, causing Celestia to reluctantly put down the glass and handful of cookies, and return to her stoic demeanor. "Sorry about that. Well, there are some situations that the Elements can't assist in, as powerful as they are. Some issues need to be as discreet as possible. A select group of individuals headed by Luna oversee these tasks."

"T.E.S.T., a group of people chosen on their individual talents take care of these tasks," Luna took the reigns here, being her creation. "The tactical equestrian specialist team handle the sneakier business of our country. This team of four people currently includes a master of disguise for information gathering and intelligence. Interestingly enough, he is a changeling as you all know them as," this gave way to some gasps from the group, as their recent encounter with changelings was anything than pleasant. "A specialty scryer who gathers the information that will not be given any other way."

"A what now?" Applejack asked Luna. Twilight looked up from her quill and paper and gave the answer Applejack requested.

"A scryer is someone who invades the minds of others, like a mind reader. It's a tricky kind of magic, and hard to master, as well as illegal and unethical," Luna nodded, satisfied with Twilights answer.

"The soldier in charge of defense tactics takes the third spot, as he is one of the members responsible for the use of given information and acting on it," Luna explained, Twilight raising her head slightly. "Yes Twilight, the one responsible for this is the only member to have a job in the Royal Guard. Your brother, Shining Armor," Luna told the surprised Twilight. Perry laughed, causing Twilight to give a look at him.

"We never did really get along. Shiny never liked me spending time with you, considered me a menace to society. Though to be fair, he never got along with any of us," everyone's eyes turned to Perry, who continued to talk. "The forth member is also responsible for using information given, but at a more personal level," he said to the group.

"The forth member, Perry here, performs covert assassination operations," Luna said to the group, causing a bunch of gasps. Rainbow was the first to react, deciding that maybe being next to Perry would be bad for her health. Perry sighed and stood up, most of them staring except Pinkie, who looked at Perry confused.

"What's an assassinamatchacallit?" Pinkie asked, getting a slight chuckle from Perry for the awkwardly cute mispronunciation of his unofficial title. He looked over the rest of the group, every single one of them silent. Unlike Pinkie, he could tell that they all knew what he meant. Looking over to Fluttershy, she gave Perry a reassuring nod, which helped ease the tension building up inside of him.

"To be simple, Pinkie, I make the people who threaten Equestria go away...forever," Perry said, no remorse in his tone.

"Make them...go away, like on a trip?" Pinkie asked, while everyone only stared at Perry intently. She was really that dense, and it made Perry sad that he would have to shatter that viewpoint of hers.

"No, go away, as take away their life and lay them to rest," Pinkie gasped, finally understanding what he meant. Perry looked down slightly before turning to the princesses. "I am sorry...I need to be alone for a bit, and this is probably a lot to take in for them," Celestia and Luna nodded. Perry turned around towards the group. "I don't expect you all to accept me right away, or even ever, so I won't be upset if you do avoid me. I just hope that even so we can still be friends, eventually," Perry walked out of the Library, leaving the group speechless.

"Perry's vacation, though somewhat fake, was so that he could get a chance to interact with more people. The other reason he is here is to keep watch over the town, as we have caught wind of a dark presence in the Everfree Forest," Celestia told them. They remained silent.

"Our scryer, as good as he is, can't view the forest with his ability. It is being blocked out by a tremendous growing dark energy," Luna began to explain. "We personally didn't approve, but Celestia thought it would be wise to send someone who could handle that kind of energy. Normally we would have sent Shining Armor, but he and Princess Cadence are currently working on hosting the Equestrian Games, so we reluctantly agreed to sending that clown..." she sighed.

"Anyways, contact Perry if there is any need to. Otherwise, I would ask all of you to please try and be accepting of him. He hasn't exactly had it easy in his life. I know it may seem as if I am making excuses for his choices, and that isn't a good reason for what he does. He has kept us all safe on more than one occasion. I ask you, please be a bit forgiving," Celestia said to the group. "Luna and I have to go now, so I wish you a good night, and please try to help him out. He is going through a rough time right now and definitely needs good friends, now more than ever."

"Twilight, it is always a pleasure. You all have a good night. Though we do dislike Perry, it is simply because it is hard to work with him, so please do give him a chance. Good friends helped us out, didn't they?" she said. Both Celestia and Luna made there way outside, before teleporting away to the castle.

They all just sat there, a bit silent at the news of what there newest friend does for a living. No one knew what to say, except Fluttershy. "Perry isn't someone who we need to be afraid of. It's the bad people in the world who create a need for such a person," all eyes turned to Fluttershy, which made her nervous. Still she needed to be strong for the one she cared for in his time of need. "Perry told me most of this before. He is a sensitive man, despite what he acts like. He has done terrible things, but it's not like he doesn't feel upset about it. Just give him a chance, for me. I will continue to stand by him. Please, all of you, stand by me, because I couldn't be who I am now without you all either, and I don't want to do this by myself," tears were starting to form in her eyes, as everyone listened and watched her. She has never been one for speeches, yet she forced herself to stand tall. Twilight was the first to speak, prompting everyone's gaze to shift.

"Fluttershy is right," she said confidently. "It would be wrong of us to judge him based on his actions alone. I have known him for longer than all of you, and though apparently his original job was just a cover, he really did enjoy his work in making people laugh, and feel better when they were sad. He has always treated me like the sister he has never had."

"He isn't without his faults," Rainbow started, looking over the group. "I have seen the uglier side of him, and he has also seen mine. Still, he showed kindness when he didn't have to, and in the end he has become an awesome friend worth getting to know. He is someone I am willing to put my trust in as well, and besides, being best friends with an assassin, ya have to admit is kinda cool," she smiled proudly at her statement.

"Perry is definitely a mystery, but he is also a gentleman, and acts like it...most of the time anyways," Rarity spoke, grabbing everyone's attention. "He was willing to help out my sister and her friends when they needed it. Even when I so rudely pushed him into a fountain, he didn't get upset. He acted nicely towards me, and in the end, even trusted me on making that fantastic suit...that...oh my, I almost forgot that he was covered in dirt! I have to get that washed!" everyone stared at Rarity, causing her to calm down from her near fashion frenzy. "Pardon me for thinking he has an excellent fashion sense...when he wants to..."

"It does make me sad knowing Perry isn't a real jester, but he is still really nice to me," Pinkie said, being her turn now. "He loved to party, and people who love to party can't be bad people. It is a law of the party itself, and I will stand by that law!" she said. Applejack stood up and headed into the kitchen, as everyone watched.

"I'll just be a minute. I have an idea..." she said and disappeared into the kitchen.

"I hope he is alright," Fluttershy said to the others. Spike got up and sighed slightly.

"I feel so jealous of you all! Everyone has such cool stories about Perry except for me! We should find him. He has got to be upset at everything, and wandering around in the middle of the night has got to be depressing," Spike told the girls. They all nodded, and got themselves ready to leave.

"Spike, ya mind comin here for a second?" Applejack called the young boy. He walked in to find Applejack holding an unbaked pie in her hands. "Need a little dragon magic here, think ya can help?" she smiled lightly. "Actions do speak louder than words after all."

Spike smiled and took the pie. Using his magical fire breath, he cooked the pie fully within seconds. Being no slouch at using himself as a portable oven, he made sure it came out perfectly. He smiled, as he could now say he had somewhat of a story to tell as well. He left the pie on the counter to cool.

"Let's go Applejack, we got a friend in need out there," Spike said as he got his jacket on. Applejack nodded and followed him out, everyone waiting for them.

Perry sat by the water fountain, staring into his reflection in the water. He wondered how all the girls were taking it right now. He needed some air, and knew they would need time to digest the new information. At the best, they accept him. The worst, he goes into hiding and does his job like he normally would have if not for the silly vacation trickery Celestia pulled on him. Either way, he was happy with the outcome. If not for himself being able to find solace in the fact that he supports Equestria to the best of his abilities, but for his newfound romance he was hoping would lead to something greater. Though he stared into the liquid mirror at himself, he was still able to notice a group of girls walking towards him.

"I guess they finally made their decision," Perry said to himself, turning his head to face them. Spike was the first one to run up to him. Perry looked down at the boy.

"Hey, Perry! How's it going?" Spike asked, trying to make small talk.

"It's turned into a nice looking night. Besides that, mainly reflecting on things," he responded. He turned to the others who walked towards him. He remained silent, waiting for their judgment. Twilight was the first to speak, with a look of agitation on her face.

"Perry, I only have one question, and it has been bothering me for the entire day..." she said to him.

"And what would that be, Twilight?" Perry responded, unsure of what kind of question he would have to answer, or even if he actually wanted to.

"Seriously...what the hell happened to that thing out there tonight. I kept asking, and the question got avoided so many times it's ridiculous," Perry chuckled lightly.

"Of all the questions you could ask, that is what you wish to know?" Perry asked.

"Yes! Seriously, what did you two do to that thing? I have never seen anything like that!" she yelled, getting furious and thinking he was going to dodge the question again.

"Fine. I opened a black hole, nothing more. Next question," Perry said to the others in a nonchalant way. Twilight just stood there in a slight bit of shock before flailing about.

"Wait WHAT?!" she yelled to Perry. "You don't just make holes in the fabric of space. That is dangerous! How?! What?! Why?!" Twilight started to babble on. Perry sighed.

"Twilight, I will assure you it was under control, Princess Celestia kept up the barrier to withstand the gravitational forces. As the how, I would rather not divulge anything about the spell to you. You might actually go and try it for yourself. I would rather not feel responsible for an apocalypse," Perry laughed at the thought of Twilight ending the world. "Is that all?" Perry asked. Twilight sighed in defeat stepping back towards the rest of the group. Fluttershy walked towards Perry slowly, looking into his eyes, she simply smiled.

"Perry, we all want you to know, that we still think of you as a friend...so if you want to... please don't go away yet," Fluttershy blushed slightly. Perry stood up and bowed to her and the entire group.

"It would be an honor to continue to be your friend if you're willing to accept me," Perry said, smiling happily behind the mask. "Promise me that you won't talk about my other job though..." he said seriously towards the group. "If you do...it will be hard to perform my duties if people know who to expect."

"No that is not how you do it!" Rainbow Dash started to yell at Perry. "You're supposed to be all 'If you do, I will have to kill you', not like that! Here you could have looked so cool!"

"I beg your pardon, but why exactly would you want me to kill you? I thought we were friends, and as far as I know, friends don't kill friends," Perry asked, slightly confused. Rainbow just stared at him in disbelief and grumbled. Everyone else started laughing at the comment. Perry looked back to Fluttershy, and grabbed her hand. She squeaked slightly at the sudden contact, before easing up and gripping his hand with hers. "It has been a long day, so how about we all go home and rest up," Perry said to everyone.

"Well could ya at least come back with us to Twilight's?" Applejack asked. "Me and Spike here made a pie for ya, as a token of appreciation for all the nasty work ya had to do for us all," Perry looked at them all and grinned under the mask.

"I certainly am not the one to say no to pie. Oh, I am going to get so fat here," Perry said to them all. He followed them to the library, getting a few nice laughs, some delicious pie and overall enjoying the company of his friends. He was glad to have met people like them. If he could have known people like that when he was younger, maybe things would have been different, but the winding road of fate is very fickle, and no matter what, he was satisfied with himself.

Perry and Fluttershy left Twilight's library after enjoying the company of everyone. Rarity kept insisting on making him a secret agent outfit for his job, but Perry politely declined, kind of afraid on what a 'fashionable assassination suit' would look like. Rainbow Dash wanted him to teach her his ways, which he also declined, stating that she was a death hazard already. Everyone had to decline when Pinkie wanted to host a 'my friend is a contract killer' party. She sincerely didn't know why that was a bad thing, but as they say, Pinkie is Pinkie.

Perry walked Fluttershy home, talking lightly with her along the way about the days events, and mainly about them. It was a nice way to end the evening, though Perry couldn't help but be worried for Fluttershy's safety. If he was meant to be a target, then when that robed man had seen her with him, he could try and use her against him. "Fluttershy, I don't mean this as trying to be forward, but would you mind if I spent the night?" he asked, causing her to stop dead in her tracks and just look at him, blushing heavily. Perry chuckled slightly, looking at her shocked reaction.

"Umm...I...well...umm..." Fluttershy tried to get the words out, but was failing miserably. Perry grinned and started to walk forward.

"Well I didn't hear a no. I will stay on the couch, so don't worry about your privacy. It will be safe with me, I can assure you," Perry laughed lightly peeking back at Fluttershy, who just nodded slightly, her face as red as an apple. She quickly followed him as they arrived at her house. Perry stared at his old nemesis yet again, watching as it quickly moved out of his way with such little effort. All it took this time was Fluttershy to unlock and open it. Perry gave a smug, self satisfied grin towards it before walking in. Once inside, Perry stood there. Unsure of what to do, he stayed in one spot, just looking around. This was much easier in his head, and now that he was inside, he was actually quite nervous.

"Umm...would you like...something to drink? Tea, maybe?" Fluttershy asked him shyly, hiding her blush as best as she could with her hair. Perry scratched the back of his head awkwardly, looking at her.

"Sure...tea would be nice," he said, still standing in the same spot he was in. Before, it was so easy to move about, but now it was almost like he was frozen in place, as if moving would cause him to fall into an endless void. Fluttershy walked into the kitchen and started to boil the water. Using this time, he found himself able to slowly and carefully make his way to the couch. Taking a seat on the soft furniture, Perry sat there quietly. Fluttershy soon walked out with two cups of tea. She handed him one before taking a seat next to him. They sipped their tea quietly, Perry lifting his mask up slightly. He was alright with taking the thing off around Fluttershy, but he felt even more self conscious now than ever. As they finished, Perry got up and brought the cups into the kitchen. Fluttershy got up as well, standing there, more nervous than she has ever been ever. She gulped slightly as she watched Perry come out of the kitchen.

"Perry..." Fluttershy started to speak, her voice was quiet and hard to hear, but Perry was well trained in listening for the slightest of noises, but he couldn't help but be on edge as well. "If...you want to...you know...I don't mind you ...umm spending the night with me..." she blushed heavily, finishing that last part. Perry froze in place, finding the response to such an offer hard to find. Sure they have slept together, sort of. This was different though. "If...you don't want to...I understand..." she said quietly, looking down.

"Fluttershy...I would love to...but it would be quite inappropriate of me to do so," Perry said, almost wanting to kick himself hard in the face, but at the same time not wanting to come on too strong.

"...I don't mind, really. I trust you, Perry," she lifted her head and smiled towards him. He sighed. He might as well give up. It would be hard for him to complain, but it was still awkward.

"If you are alright with it, but..." Perry started." ...I snore, so don't feel bad about kicking me off the bed if I annoy you," Perry tried to lessen the tension with a bit of humor, which ended up working. Fluttershy giggled slightly, helping Perry relax from his present situation as well. They slowly headed upstairs and towards Fluttershy's bedroom. Perry waited outside for her to change out of her dress and into something more comfortable to sleep in. He considered himself a person of decency at the very least, but that did not stop him from wondering about beyond the door. Perry made a mental note that all doors in this building were evil now, as they caused him to think unclean thoughts as well as preventing, or at least delaying, his entrance. Fluttershy opened the door finally, Perry's jaw dropping. She wore a simple night gown, a subtle shade of yellow. Its silky material gracefully flowed down to the floor. The thing he admired most was that her wings were once again in view, as he couldn't help but stare at them.

"Is...everything alright?" Fluttershy asked. He chuckled as he removed his mask, revealing his heavily blushing face and an awkward smile.

"I am just staring at your wings...that's all," Perry said honestly. "They really are quite beautiful," her wings almost looked like they puffed up a little with pride at the compliment.

"Thank you...umm you can come in now...if you want to," she said sheepishly. He walked in and took his jacket and dress shirt off, leaving him in just his dress pants. They were comfy enough to sleep in, so he wasn't all that concerned, at least for that. Fluttershy gently got under the covers, Perry nervously following as he laid down next to her.

"If at any time I bother you, feel free to ask me to leave," Perry said as he looked at her, still finding it hard to believe where he was to begin with.

"I am sure you won't be a bother," she said, moving to get a bit closer to Perry. After some fidgeting, Perry felt her gently snuggling against him. He froze, unsure of what to do here. Moving slowly, he wrapped his arm around her and just held her gently.The effect of his warmth was almost instantaneous as she started to snore lightly, smiling as she buried her face into his chest. He didn't mind though, as he felt almost like this was right. He slowly began to close his eyes as well, giving Fluttershy a soft kiss on her head before. He could die right now and still be happy.

"Good night, Fluttershy. Sweet dreams, my love..."

The Crazy Thing About Friends

Chapter 16: The Crazy Thing About Friends

The sun was bright, the birds were chirping, and all was right with the world. This is how Perry felt as he woke up from his nice slumber. He stretched out, cracked his neck a few times, and started to look around. The first thing he noticed was his face was uncovered, something he wasn't used to waking up to. He flailed around slightly, trying to find his mask out of instinct. He noticed the one Rarity designed for him by his shirt. As he was at it though, a second thought came into his mind. Where the hell was he? Perry was never good with dealing with mornings, or maybe mornings just didn't like him. He preferred the latter thought, as it made for a better conversation.

After several minutes of brainstorming and deductive reasoning, he finally remembered what occurred last night. He smiled slightly. wondering how he could forget about an oversized beast. He looked to his side, and saw the empty spot where Fluttershy was laying the night before. Perry guessed that she must be up already, so he got out himself. Grabbing his mask, Perry made his way to find the kitchen.

He made his way downstairs, and as he entered the kitchen, Perry skillfully dodged a projectile in the form of a cucumber slice. As more were thrown his way, he simply moved out of the way, walking towards the source of the bombardment. Angel stood there on the kitchen table, wearing a small green camo helmet and jacket. Black lines were painted under his angry looking eyes. He prepared a small catapult, loaded with a potato. Perry simply watched the angry rabbit launch the brown root at his face. He effortlessly raised his hand and caught the potato as it was about to impact. He took the potato over to the counter and started cutting it up into cubes, and spent some time searching for oil and a pan, successful avoiding more vegetables that he didn't need or care for. He caught the ones he wanted, an onion, a pepper, and a few more potatoes, and threw them into the pan. Perry wondered if he would be the one in trouble with the kitchen trashed with all sorts of food products, though that didn't really matter as he was sleepy and hungry. He finished the simple fried potato dish, and pulling out two plates and a smaller one, he filled them up with the hot concoction. Perry carried the small plate over to Angel and left it by him. From the lack of vegetables flying towards him as he left, Angel must have accepted the terms and conditions of Perry's surrender.

He looked around for a bit in his tired daze. Finding a clock, it was a little past ten, verifying that Perry slept more than he usually did. The previous night must have worn him out more than he thought. He looked around the house, calling Fluttershy's name, not getting a response. Finally, when he was about to give up, he noticed her outside of a window, dressed in her usual attire, feeding a small flock of creatures. Fluttershy was smiling as she knelt down, tossing feed all around her. The creatures kept moving towards her, birds resting on her shoulders, small bunnies and squirrels playfully jumping around her. Perry opened up the window and stuck his head out of it.

"Fluttershy, are you hungry? I made breakfast...lunch...ermm brunch!" Perry yelled to her. She looked over and held up a finger in front of her lips, the signal to keep quiet. She then motioned for Perry to come over.

Not bothering with a shirt, Perry set down the food on a table, and just threw on his boots and walked out. He walked slowly towards the side of Fluttershy's house, trying to not cause more of a commotion than necessary. She continued to lay out feed as Perry approached slowly in an attempt to not startle the animals. Stealth being a natural talent of his, he made sure his footsteps produced no sound. When he made it next to her, the animals backed away slowly, but Fluttershy managed to charm them back towards the two. She handed Perry a small handful of feed, which he sprinkled all around him. The animals started to eat it, getting closer to Perry than he was used to. Fluttershy only looked at him and smiled. Odd as it was, Perry found this sort of morning nice, and continued to help her out until the small bag went empty. Fluttershy and Perry rose, causing the animals to start to scatter back to their homes. "Well, that was new," Perry said to Fluttershy. "Anyways, good morning."

"Good morning to you. Did you sleep well?" Fluttershy asked. Perry stretched out, bending his back farther than what could be considered normal, and then pulling himself back up.

"It was alright, but it turns out you kick quite a bit in your sleep," Perry chuckled.

Fluttershy started to look nervous."Oh my, I am sorry...please don't be..."

"I was just kidding, Flutters. It was one of the best night sleeps I have had in ages. I need to sleep in more," Fluttershy smiled in relief. "So if you're hungry, brunch is getting cold."

"Oh that would be lovely. I wanted to wait for you to wake up before..." her stomach growled loudly. Perry chuckled and led the way into her house, still giving that front door a triumphant grin as he opened it for Fluttershy. They walked in to find two empty plates and a very content looking Angel, giving them the 'Yeah, I did it. What?' look. Perry's eye twitched slightly, staring as all his hard work had gone to waste. Fluttershy looked down at Angel. "It's ok Angel, we will just make something else," Perry's eyes widened as he remembered the one sided war that took place in the kitchen today.

"Actually, how about we go out and eat! I have been meaning to sample the non confectionary restaurants of Ponyville!" Perry said quickly.

"Umm, sure. I guess that sounds like fun," Fluttershy responded to him, smiling.

"Great. let me go grab my shirt, and I will meet you outside. Go Go! It's a wonderful day! Let's get as much sun as we can!" Perry told Fluttershy, gently pushing her out the door. He closed it and ran upstairs, grabbing his dress shirt and jacket, and then ran back down and almost shoved his mask into Angel's face. "Ok, rabbit. Here's the deal! You obviously don't like me, and I can assure you the feeling is mutual, but facing facts, the kitchen is both of our faults. Your's for your random and senseless onslaught, and mine for not stopping you to the fullest extent of my imagination," Angel gulped slightly. "You take care of that mess, and I will owe you a favor...damn it I can't believe I am offering my services to a bunny..."

"Perry, are you coming?" Fluttershy asked from behind the door.

"Yes, I am just saying good bye to Angel," he said back to her, before holding his hand out to Angel. "So, do we have a deal?" Angel looked Perry down with his cold eyes, before taking his finger with his paws and shaking it. Perry nodded and made his way out of the house. Angel went into the kitchen, and looking at all the mess, almost regretted starting that fight. Almost.

Perry and Fluttershy sat at a nice outdoor table, looking through the menus their waiter had given them. Perry was dressed in his normal attire and mask, having stopped by his house to change on the way. He skimmed through all of the meals, trying to find that one meal that he didn't know he wanted but will never forget. He took a sip of his water through his straw, which his waiter had reluctantly given him. The establishment was a higher class place called café de petit cheval, and thought it was crude for adults to use bendy straws.

"Are you two all set?" the waiter asked, still using that cheesy accent that Perry could tell was fake. Perry looked over to Fluttershy, who nodded slightly.

"Yes, I will be having the garden salad, extra croutons please," Perry said to the waiter, watching him scribble down on his flip pad.

"A garden salad as well, please. If it isn't a problem, could you add some extra tomatos?" Fluttershy asked. The waiter nodded, taking their menus back inside.

"Very well. I will be back with your entrees," he said, walking away. Perry took a sip of his water before looking back at Fluttershy.

"So, if I may ask, what are your parents like?" Perry asked Fluttershy. She smiled as she looked at him.

"My mother was a painter, and my father used to be a soldier," Fluttershy told him.

"Wow, what an odd combination there. How did they meet?" Perry asked.

"Well, my mother was tasked with doing a group painting of my father's winged battalion. Afterwards, she was approached by several of the men, who had bothered her about going on a date with them. She wasn't the best at handling pressure, so she didn't know what to do. Dad walked up to her and told the others that she was his, and walked away with her, only to get her away from them. Turns out that they really did end up going out on a date, and a year later they were married," Perry chuckled at the adorableness of the story.

"So will I ever get to meet them?" Perry asked. Fluttershy's smile faded slightly.

"Well, my mother passed on a few years after I was born, and my father has been on the overprotective side since, so I doubt it would be a good idea. At least not anytime soon," she said to Perry.

"That will not do, not at all. No! I must meet him!" Perry declared, causing Fluttershy to jump slightly. "Does he live near here?"

"Umm, he lives up there in Cloudsdale, so I doubt you could go..." she said quietly.

"Nonsense. I do know magic, so you know. A cloud walking spell is fairly easy. If you carry me, I am sure it won't be a problem," she continued to grow more nervous as Perry became more determined.

"Umm, I don't think I could carry you, I can barely carry myself," Fluttershy said, half serious and half trying to make an excuse.

"I will simply turn down the gravity around us. That one is easy for me as well," Perry said happily as his mental plans had started to come together. Fluttershy tried to come up with another good reason, but sighed in defeat. "Don't worry, I am sure it will go well," she smiled as best as she could, but she was still worried.

The salads finally came, Perry digging in as Fluttershy took small bites. The rest of the meal was enjoyed in silence, Perry's mouth too full to declare his intent on visiting Fluttershy's family, much to her own relief. After the salads were gone, they sat there for a bit longer, just looking at each other before Fluttershy spoke up.

"What are your parents like?" Fluttershy asked Perry. She wondered if she asked him something she shouldn't have, because he went awfully silent the moment after.

"...My mother also passed away. It happened when I was born. My father, well I tried to avoid him. He wasn't the easiest person to be around, as he most definitely has flaws. His greatest one though, is that he wasn't the best father, not by a long shot. Ended up being raised by my aunt and uncle. They were alright, so for the most part, they are my parents. I should visit them soon as well. They live in a retirement home in Canterlot. I make sure to take care of them with the money I make, so they are happy," Perry said.

"They sound like great people, I hope to meet them soon as well," Fluttershy said.

"They really are, probably the only reason I am not a total psychopath," Perry laughed. Fluttershy just looked at him curiously.

"So...what started, you know, that part of you?" Fluttershy asked quietly, not sure if she wanted to hear the answer.

"A story for another time..." Perry said quietly. Fluttershy nodded, still looking curious. "It has nothing to do with you, I still have a hard time dealing with that incident, and even more with the after effects."

"It is alright. I understand. Sorry for bringing it up," Fluttershy said, looking sadly at the table. Perry got up and walked over to her, giving her a hug. She hugged Perry back and looked up into his eyes. Though he was wearing that mask, it was almost as if she could see him without it. It was something that belonged to her, and only her.

"Don't worry about it, I am not upset," he poked her forehead and chuckled slightly. She looked up at him in surprise, not understanding what he just did.

"There you go, no more sad face," Perry said happily. Fluttershy smiled slightly at his silliness. Letting her go, he threw down the bits for the meal onto the table and turned back to Fluttershy. "I have a job to do now. I will meet you later so we can go visit your father for dinner," he said. Fluttershy's look changed to a worried one.

"You're going to look into the forest, right?" Perry nodded at Fluttershy's question. "I will be waiting for you tonight, so make sure you come back," Perry chuckled, then suddenly jumped onto the table.

"I. Perry O'te, vow to return unharmed and unscathed for you!" he started to yell. Fluttershy was looking at him nervously.

"Umm Perry you should...?" Fluttershy was about to say something when Perry continued his speech.

"I could venture to the ends of the land, climb the highest mountain..." he continued on with his dramatic speech.

"Perry?" Fluttershy tried to get his attention to the growing amount of angry looking restaurant workers.

"Swim to the depths of the deepest ocean and still I would return to you!!!" Perry finally finished, standing triumphantly.

"Sir! Get off the table!" Perry heard a yell from a small group of restaurant workers standing behind him. He chuckled and jumped off the table.

"My apologies for expressing my goals in the best way I see fit," Perry said to them. The staff shook their heads, almost like it was rehearsed, and walked back inside. Perry turned to Fluttershy, who was smiling again. "I should be back around six, so be ready for me, alright?" Perry said to her.

"I will be waiting for you, so please be safe. Maybe you should go get a map from Twilight," Fluttershy said.

"A map would be useless, chances are anything plotting in there isn't going to use a widely know location to plot. That would be stupid and predictable, and only an idiot of a villain would do that...unless that is what they are expecting me to think...Anyway, I should be alright, so don't worry," Perry took a bow, before heading off in the direction of the forest. Fluttershy sighed, still worried for his safety. If only she was stronger, than she could help him, but so far all she has been able to do is hold Perry back.

She got up and started to walk when she heard a noise from the bushes near where her and Perry were sitting. Curiously, she walked over to them and peeked over. She giggled slightly at the sight of Rainbow Dash, Twilight, and Rarity, all looking slightly guilty.

"What are you all doing hiding there?" she asked them.

'Umm nothing, nothing at all! Just...looking for a...a..." Twilight was trying to come up with an answer.

"We were making sure you were happy with him, sweetie," Rarity said. Fluttershy looked at the group, slightly confused.

"Why are you spying on me, then? I am sure you could have joined us," Fluttershy said. "So, how long have you been watching us?" Rainbow jumped up and started to tell her story in all of this.

"Well, I was flying around this morning, making sure that the weather was done right, when I noticed Perry there come out of your house without a shirt on," Rainbow Dash started to explain, using over energetic had gestures along with her story. "I was like all 'no way' and was watching you two feed the animals. You were so close that I figured he might have tried to pull the moves on you..."

"And that is when she came to me," Twilight started to talk. "She flew through the window screaming something along the lines of 'Fluttershy's innocence is in jeopardy!' and smashed into a bookshelf," Fluttershy blushed heavily at the comment, trying to hide her face behind her hair. "Rarity was there doing research on new design ideas..."

"Which were all too old fashioned for me," Rarity was speaking now. "We had come to a decision that you two had to be stalked. It was uncouth of us, I know, but you are our friend and we have been worried about you ever sense you started seeing him. I feel you two are just moving too fast and should refrain from anything of a more personal nature until you have a chance to know him better."

"I am sorry for worrying you all, I promise you nothing like that happened. Perry is a nice man deep down, and he even insisted on sleeping on the couch," Fluttershy said to them. She felt avoiding what happened after would be best, and she technically wasn't lying so it was alright. "He didn't say, but I could tell he was just worried because of what happened that night."

"He is still a man, Flutters, and in my experience, men will do anything to get you into the sack," Rainbow said to her.

"Rainbow, from what I hear, you almost tend to seek out the troublemakers," Rarity added. Rainbow glared at her. "Perry is indeed a good man, but he still is a troubled one. We are your friends, and we just want to make sure he is treating you right."

"I even refrained from zapping him on several occasions for you, Fluttershy. I still see Perry as the stupid brother who is trying to get with one of my best friends," Twilight told Fluttershy, Rainbow started to laugh.

"Oh please, egghead. You're secretly jealous that she got someone before you did," Rainbow laughed as Twilight started to get angry.

"LIGHTNING!" Twilight called out, sending a bolt into Rainbow. She fell over, twitching slightly at the shock. Rarity chuckled nervously, while Fluttershy checked to make sure Rainbow was still alive, able to hear her voice faintly.

"Fluttershy...come closer..." Rainbow said slowly. Fluttershy held her ear closer to Rainbows mouth so she wouldn't have to struggle to hear her. "Totally...worth it..." Rainbow grinned. Twilight sighed as she stretched herself out.

"Well, it seems you're fine and happy, so I guess there isn't a real issue here. Just don't do anything that Rainbow wouldn't regret and you will be all right," Twilight said. Fluttershy nodded and smiled. It was nice to know that your friends cared about you.

"...No regrets..." Rainbow still chuckled as she laid on the ground. Twilight groaned and dragged her friend away. Rarity walked up to Fluttershy and smiled.

"If he is the one, then I couldn't be happier for you. Please, if the time comes, let me make your wedding dress," Fluttershy blushed heavily at the thought, practically freezing in place.

"Umm o-ok..." Fluttershy said, nodding slightly, images of a grand wedding going on in her head.

"Thank you, Fluttershy. See you tomorrow for our spa trip. If you can you should bring Perry along, I am sure even he needs to get the kinks straightened out of him."

"I...will ask..." Fluttershy said, still partially day dreaming.

Perry walked happily towards the forest, enjoying the sunlight shining down on him. Celestia always did have a way with the day, but he always did better work at night, so Luna's subtlety beautiful sky deserved praise as well. He laughed, wondering if Fluttershy found out her friends had been spying on them. It wasn't hard at all to figure out, really. Rarity wore too much perfume, Twilight had a tendency to fidget slightly when she was nervous, and Rainbow was about as stealthy as a rainbow. He figured he would go see that Zecora woman from before. She seemed capable of sensing the evil in him, so she should be able to help point him in the right direction. He only hoped that she would be willing to help him after their last encounter, figuring he wasn't exactly nice to her. He sighed, knowing he would have to make his peace with her eventually, and trekked forward into the wilderness.

The Crazy Thing About Father

Chapter 17: The Crazy Thing About Father

Green to the left, and green to the right. Perry expected this, but a forest was always a bit on the boring side. Everything being green made it all look the same. Not to say that Perry was lost, but he certainly had no idea where he was going. Trying to remember the path to the hut, he wandered around, figuring that once he got close enough, he would remember the exact location. He was usually better at this, but the last time he was slightly distracted, so this time he planned on remembering the path. The forest itself had an evil feel to it, probably residual mana mixing in with the feral wildlife. Creating a golem like that was bound to use a sizable amount of mana. and leftovers had a tendency to contaminate the surrounding area.

Perry took notice of the timber wolves starting to surround him, though cared very little of it. Animals had a tendency to avoid the apex predator, no matter how desperate they are. They were more or less scoping out the competition to make sure their way of life was not being threatened by him. This made the sudden attack by one all the more surprising as Perry jumped to the side to avoid it. He then proceeded to sweep its front legs, following up with a spinning heel kick to its head, sending it skidding across the ground. Perry stayed his ground, the rest of the wolves still circling him. He had no problem handling them, and would have gladly taken them all out, but a large puff of smoke, followed by a large boom, had managed to scare them off. Perry readied himself for the possible threat posed on him, but relaxed when he saw the figure of Zecora walk through the smoke. She approached Perry slowly, taking care to keep her distance.

"These troubled wolves are filled with fear. An evil presence grows ever clear," Zecora said to Perry, who chuckled at the rhyming quirk she displayed constantly.

"That is why I am here actually," Perry said after he stopped laughing. "I am sure even you heard the disturbance that occurred in Ponyville last night."

"It would be hard to have not heard that beast. Ponyville is safe though, at the very least?" Zecora asked, still acting wary of Perry, but starting to calm down.

"Yes. iIt took some effort, but Celestia and I managed to make it go away. I am here trying to find the source, and figuring you seemed to be quite skilled at sensing auras, have you felt any strong evil...besides myself of course?" Perry asked Zecora.

"Indeed a strong one has started to grow, but recently it has started to slow. The power required for that creature to be made, possibly caused its energy to fade. I don't know if it is still near by. I'd rather not wait around to die..." Zecora told Perry. It was then he noticed she had a large bag, probably filled with as much as she could carry.

"Here let me at least help you with that," Perry said to Zecora, who shook her head and started to walk down the path to Ponyville.

"I do not want you to help me flee..." she started, before being interrupted by Perry.

"Consider this my apology," he chuckled, walking up next to her. "I have been on edge for some time now, and I have had much on my mind. I don't want you to see me as an enemy, but I don't mind if you don't see me as a friend. I am simply trying to make amends for my threats to you a few days back," Perry spoke sincerely, and Zecora could tell.

She sighed and handed him the bag, which was much heavier than Perry had expected. He was still able to carry it, but he felt an odd presence within the bag, one that he had been familiar with once. "Zecora, I have a question for you, and you have to be honest with me. How did you come across the Alicorn's Amulet?" Perry asked with complete seriousness. Zecora look was that of shock at the mention of that object.

"It was acquired a few weeks ago, from a woman with too much love of the show. She insisted on challenging Twilight to a dual, and won because of that dark tool. Twilight came to me for help to win, and try to save that girl from sin. Twilight had tricked her into removing it, from there on out in my hut it sit," Zecora told Perry, who nodded, understanding that amulet's dark powers.

"I thought that it would be locked away forever. Too dark and terrible of a thing to ever be used," Perry said. "I had used it once as well..." Zecora looked at him. "I could feel its power flowing through me, but I was barely able to control my madness. It was a difficult struggle, and though the amulets power is what saved me, I shall never forget almost losing myself to the desire to kill. I will not lie, I do enjoy it, but I am still not a heartless maniac," Zecora listen to him as they walked. "Make sure you keep this thing safe, because I have a feeling that the enemy knows that it is somewhere in the forest as well. Otherwise, they would be in a more secluded area."

"You truly are a strange one. But consider what you have asked done. I shall keep the Alicorn's Amulet away from all, and guard it even after I fall," Zecora said to Perry, who nodded in appreciation.

"Chances are good that whoever it is out there is looking for you as well, so you should stay with someone you know," the two suddenly froze when a voice spoke from behind them.

"That is some excellent advice, clown," Perry and Zecora turned around to find the same hooded figure from last night. "Oh don't mind me, I am just here for two things, that stupid necklaces and your stupid heads, so you can make it easier on yourselves and just hand them over, we can all have a good day. Well, except for you two, but nothing is perfect," he laughed slightly, a simple dark laugh. Perry took off the pack and handed it to Zecora.

"I would suggest you run, Zecora. This is the one responsible for bringing that behemoth to Ponyville," Perry told her. Zecora shook her head and put the bag down.

"Don't think I am weak, unless it is defeat you seek," she said, smiling as she pulled out two daggers.

"Alright then. You better be able to handle yourself. I fight so much better without having to watch someone's ass. Just stay behind and maybe you will get the answers you need about me," Perry grinned towards the hooded man.

"Aww, that's cute," he said, a smile seen from within his hood. "Master is quite upset that you destroyed Fluffy, but you don't have Celestia this time, so you're as good as dead when it comes to me."

"Been awhile since I had a magic fight, should prove interesting. I just hope that you don't die too quickly, I might end up being saddened," Perry responded, sounding oddly happy. Zecora could feel the killing intent from the two, but she needed to stand her ground. She understood that she should have left, but she needed to truly understand Perry and see him for what he was capable of.

"It won't be much of a fight, more of a slaughter," the hooded one said with a cocky tone.

"Well you know, you can't spell slaughter without laughter, and I will be the one laughing in the end. Your blood is going to look beautiful when I paint it on my mask," Perry said, starting to get fired up as well. Zecora could only wonder how such a person could be so calm and collected one moment, and become this in another.

"Darkness everlasting, guide my strike true, and slay those who defy my whim," The hooded man started to cast, Perry preparing a spell of his own.

""Hold down that which soars. Bind down to the land in which we walk. Give way to all that resides, granting an everlasting stability. Cast out all who seek to defile the simple law and back onto the rock of origin," Perry responded, grinning slightly.

"Turn them to dust, and let the wind be their burial!" The other finished casting as well.

"GRAVITY FIELD!"

"DISINTIGRATOR!"

The field erected around the entire area, Zecora could feel the weight increase, making it harder to stand. She watched as the hooded man shot a ball of dark energy at Perry. The energy wouldn't be effected, making Zecora wonder why Perry would put such a handicap on himself as well. He could manipulate the field to avoid him, but it wouldn't make him any faster as shifting the field around him takes time. As the attack was about to hit, Perry simply dodged, almost as if he wasn't effected by the gravity to begin with. The attack hit a tree, causing it to crumble into dust. Perry could only chuckle as he moved closer to the man.

He on the other hand, had a hard time standing there. He started to breath more rapidly, while trying to maintain a smug appearance. "DISINTIGRATOR!" He casted the spell again, this time in rapid succession, as he shot multiple balls at Perry. Almost as if he wasn't trying, Perry walked by, quickly sidestepping the fast moving attacks with little to no trouble.

"Having a hard time there? You look tired," Perry grinned as he got closer, The hooded man struggling to move back, his legs heavy and already worn. "You stupid mages are all the same. Magic this, magic that. It's why you're no fun to fight at all. There isn't an easy way to move in here, because I don't feel the need to use one. You only worked on perfecting your magic techniques, it seems. Learning more and more. I didn't like that, so I decided to train myself up more physically. You will never know the satisfaction of being covered in your own success unless you physically struggle for it. I practice fighting in at least double what you're feeling now, so this is nothing to me," all the while attacking, the mage still tried to hit him, hoping that Perry would end up distracting himself from the task at hand. "It's simply no use. A slow spell like that won't work," the hooded man simply grinned, and looked towards Zecora.

"I'll just have to take out your friend there!" he yelled as he fired at her. It didn't really matter though at that point, as the moment he looked away from Perry, he found that Perry was standing there, in his face with that mask looking him right in the eye. He looked back to Zecora, who had successfully created a small barrier to block the attack, though stopping something of that caliber had looked like it drained her, causing her to fall to her knees.

"Your first mistake was taking your eyes off me, silly mage," Perry chuckled at the stunned mage, he couldn't really tell why, but he had a large pain in his chest. "Your second was thinking I actually gave a damn about her. What did you think I would do? Be all noble, yell 'nooooo' and jump in front of the blast? That's cute," Perry turned his head to look at Zecora. "You're fine, right? Otherwise I would have severely misjudged you," she only nodded, breathing heavily, waiting for Perry to return gravity to normal. Perry turned his head and looked at the surprised man. "What's wrong, lost for words, finding it hard to breath and concentrate? Honestly I am shocked you are even still conscious," Perry chuckled as he lifted his hand up slowly, revealing a blood covered red pulsating mass of flesh. "Funny how important these little things are, and yet they are just soooo squishy and soft, almost like a stress ball!" he started to squeeze it, causing blood to squirt out of it. "You're losing all the oxygen to your system about now, shutting everything you have inside you down. It must me awful. You can barely move! I am quite surprised you're even..." the hooded man fell to the ground, clutching the hole in his chest, flailing and gasping. "Never mind!" Perry said happily as he watched the man writhe on the ground, before starting to stop. "Well it was fun, but I am going to go now, you're boring me. When you get to the underworld, tell its keeper I said you're welcome. Don't worry, I am sure he will know what I mean," Perry laughed as he continued to throw his heart up and down like a ball. The hooded mages eyes closed, though a small smile appeared on his face before. His master was right. He truly didn't stand a chance.

Releasing his concentration on the gravity spell, Perry walked over to Zecora, casually tossing the heart in his hand up and down. "So, you alright?" Perry asked. Zecora got up slowly and stared for what was some time.

"I do not truly know what to think. Watching you kill him made my heart sink. I am sure though, that you did what you must. The punishment, though cruel, was also just," Zecora spoke to Perry in her usual rhymes. Perry stared at the red ball in his hand and shrugged, tossing it over his shoulder.

"I probably should have asked for information," Perry said. "Oh well, hindsight's twenty twenty," Zecora picked up her bag and they made there way away from the battlefield. Perry looked over to Zecora and chuckled slightly. "Would you happen to have some water on you? I would rather not go into town looking like this," She nodded and pulled out a canteen, which Perry poured over himself. He tried his best to rinse off what blood he could, but it was clear he would need to make a stop into town first to change. The practice battle had been concluded. Now was the real one, meeting Fluttershy's father.

Perry sat at his desk, writing a report fully describing what he seen, and how the problem was dealt with. His wet hair constantly stuck to his mask, blocking his slight slightly. Showers were nice, but the drying part was always a pain. At least he didn't look like a psychopath anymore, though he still felt like it. Ripping any kind of organ out of a man will do that to you, but that didn't really bother him anymore. Finishing the letter, he got up and stretched. Then, with a snap of his fingers, the letter vanished into a puff of magical smoke. He made sure to mention Zecora, who was a witness to the event. She made her way over to Twilight's so she could stay there, as well as do some reading. Perry checked the clock, reading half past five from the position of the hands. He looked presentable, didn't smell like death, and was feeling confidant. He checked the mirror, adjusted his mask slightly and gave himself a thumbs up. Making his way out the door, the most unexpected thing occurred. Pinkie jumped almost out of nowhere and scared the living daylights out of Perry.

"PERRY!" she yelled as she appeared in front of his face. Perry jumped back slightly, staring at Pinkie. "I was wondering if you wanted to help me test out a new cake...Perry are you ok?" she asked, Perry breathing heavily.

"How in the bloody hell did you do that?! I can't even remember the last time someone snuck up on me!" Perry said to Pinkie, who only smiled.

"I wasn't trying, I guess I am just that good," she said. Perry's eye twitched slightly at the comment. If any of his team mates found out about this, he would never live it down.

"Right then...Well, I will have to apologize. I would love to give your masterpieces a taste, but I am going to meet Fluttershy's father," he said to Pinkie. Her jaw dropped and she screamed, running away as fast as possible. "...Well, that just happened. Doesn't bode well for me," Perry sighed. He was absolutely adamant about this, but it was mainly an excuse to spend more time with Fluttershy. Awkward dinners wasn't his thing, and if the simple mentioning of her father could send Pinkie running faster than Rainbow, should he be nervous as well?

He made his way to Fluttershy's, contemplating how bad things could go in his head. Several had implosions, which never went well. The walk was short, leaving him with little time to think. Perry stood in front of that front door, not even caring about knocking, as there was possibly a greater foe present. Fluttershy answered the door rather quickly, looking at Perry. "So, how was the forest?"

"More boring than I would have expected, but Zecora is staying with Twilight until the issue is taken care of. Anyways, I am going to cast the spells," Fluttershy gave a slightly forced nod. Putting his hands together, Perry started to glow for a few seconds, the glow fading.

"Well, the cloud walking spell is all done," Perry told Fluttershy. She looked at him nervously and lifted her sweater over her wings, allowing them to stretch out to their full length.

"Are you sure about this Perry. I mean, its not too late to just have a nice relaxing evening here," Fluttershy said meekly. Perry wanted to agree, but he almost felt like this had to be done.

"Don't worry, Fluttershy. I don't think it will be as bad as you think," he lied. Fluttershy just nodded as Perry wrapped his arms around her. "Feather's Grace," Perry created a small purple field around the two. Perry chuckled as Fluttershy moved around somewhat spastically.

"I feel like I am not actually here. Is that normal?" She asked.

"Don't worry, you're just not used to it," He gripped Fluttershy tightly and, picking her up with ease, walked out to a clear part of her yard. Angel waved from the door to Fluttershy, and possibly flipping Perry off when she looked away. He simply chuckled and disregarded the vulgar rabbit. "Are you ready?" Perry asked Fluttershy. Even though she was obviously nervous about the whole thing, she gave an approving nod. Perry grinned, and with as much force as possible, jumped up into the air. The lack of gravity on them was quite evident by how fast and how far up they were going. Perry chuckled at Fluttershy, who was clinging to him for dear life, despite being the one who could fly. Eventually they started to slow, Perry looking at Fluttershy. "Ok, Flutters. It is your turn."

She gulped and tried to flap her wings, finding that it isn't hard at all to give them both lift. Perry adjusted the negation factor to prevent her from accidently launching them farther up than necessary, making the task of flight for her not only easy, but fun.

"Perry, It feels amazing...It is as if I am Rainbow! Oh it feels wonderful!" she continued to fly to her home, Perry giving a slightly mischievous chuckle as they traveled. The light purple bubble surrounding them continued to move along with the two. Fluttershy found it a bit harder to fly as they got near, but she kept going, not wanting to let them fall. "Perry...are you sure...your spell is...working?" she said in-between breaths.

"Absolutely. It is in perfect working order," he responded. She eventually landed on the cloud supporting a nice sized home. Though the outside was a bit on the bland side, it had a lovely view of the both Ponyville and Canterlot. "Is this the place?" Perry said, stopping his field. Fluttershy simply sat down and took in some breaths of air.

"Yes...this is it...give me a second...please..." she said to him. Perry could only laugh as he walked up to her and placed his hand on her head.

"You're a better flyer than you even realize. I was slowly returning gravity to normal as we flew," Fluttershy gave him a surprised look, only prompting more laughter. "You were actually close to normal gravity. Seventy four percent normal to be exact, but who's counting."

"That was mean..." she said, pouting slightly.

"I am sorry. Personally, you don't give yourself enough credit. You're so sweet and kind to others, but you tend to forget yourself. I'll gladly give you as much of that as I can, but that doesn't make up for what you truly need," he sat down next to her, hugging her tightly. "Don't be afraid to try new things. I think you can do anything you set your mind to," Fluttershy smiled, blushing lightly at his words. She felt that there was no way someone like him could be the monster he claimed to be. "Tell you what. I owe you a favor for all your hard work. You name it and I do it...except leaving before we say hello," he chuckled as she sighed slightly.

"Well it has been some time, and I do miss him. I do have one thing I would like to ask, though it is a bit embarrassing," Fluttershy's voice grew quiet as she spoke, looking towards the cloudy ground they stood on.

"Like I said, anything at all," Perry said again, his tone light and airy, making her feel more comfortable.

"Well, Rarity wanted me to invite you to our spa trip tomorrow. I can understand if you don't want to, of course, but I said I would ask...and..."

"I would love to join you. It does strike me as odd, but a promise is indeed a promise. I might even like it!" Perry said enthusiastically. "Now then, I guess we should get this over with, right?" Fluttershy started walking to the front door, Perry following closely behind. She approached the door and stood before it, just staring. "Don't worry, Flutters. In the end, it is still just a door," Perry said, knowing from first hand experience.

"I understand, it is just...well...my father can be a bit rough sometimes," she said, looking down. "He never really approved of any of my friends, and last time he visited, he even made poor Pinkie cry..." she said to Perry. He thought back to earlier, finally understanding why she acted the way she did. To make her act the way she did, he must be scary, and most likely overly strict. Perry didn't like strict, strict was boring, and boring was boring. He knew what he must do, and so he knocked on the door for Fluttershy, causing her to jump slightly. "Oknooneshomelet'sgo!" she tried to make a run for the nearest edge, but Perry casually held onto her hand. She quickly turned around when she heard the locks being unlocked inside the house. His voice could be heard from inside the house.

"If it is you kids, I am going to have to get your parents involved. A telemarketer, I don't want any. If it's a robber, I am armed to the teeth and know how to use them," Fluttershy hid behind Perry as the door finally opened. The man looked to be in his late fifties, though he was anything but frail. He had most of his hair, though turning grey from black. He wore a sweater, similar to Fluttershy's and a green vest over it. Finishing the look off was a pair of dark black pants. Fluttershy well hidden, Perry simply stood there, the two of them looking at each other. "...And what the hell are you supposed to be?" Perry took a bow, revealing the hiding Fluttershy behind him.

"I am Perry O'te. Royal Jester to the princesses and your daughter's boyfriend. Pleased to meet you, sir," Perry said as formally as he could. The man continued to stand there looking at him, and then at the blushing Fluttershy.

"Stay right there for a second, boy. I need to go grab my rifle..."

The Crazy Thing About Epic Duals

Chapter 18: The Crazy Thing About Epic Duels

"Umm...did your father say he was getting his rifle?" Perry asked Fluttershy, still in a bowing position.

"We said hello, now let's go!" Fluttershy said quickly, obviously nervous. Her wishes didn't matter though, as her father came back with an old wood and iron barreled musket.

"You see this here? This is Bessie. Bessie kept me alive when I was part of the Sky Troops back in my day," Fluttershy's dad told Perry, holding the tip of it awfully close to Perry's mask. He slowly stood up from his position staring at the large gun pointed at him.

"Truly a work of art she is," Perry said to him flatly.

"Yup. Now tell me why I shouldn't just shoot you right here for even thinking that you're good enough for my daughter?" Fluttershy's dad asked.

"Several reasons, actually. Firstly, do you really want her to see someone she likes turned into a bloody corpse before her eyes, as well as staining her nice outfit? Secondly, though you are too proud to admit it, you're more afraid that you will lose your little girl than anything else, and the simple thought that it may happen scares you to death, hence the reason you are reacting the way you are. Your body may be calm, but your thoughts are shaky and confused," he glared at Perry as he spoke. Fluttershy simply stood there, afraid for both of the important men in her life. "Finally, I would never let any harm come to your daughter, and when the time comes for you to leave this world, you will be able to go knowing she is in capable hands," what happened next shock Fluttershy. Perry got down on his knees and took the barrel of the gun and pointed it at his head. "Now, go ahead and pull the trigger, but I guarantee you that you won't kill me," Perry laughed gleefully. He continued to look at Perry, glaring with his cold hard stare.

"You're fairly cocky, boy. What makes you so sure that you can survive a bullet?" he asked, pushing the gun against his mask.

"I don't know many who can, but if you must know, it's not loaded," Perry said with a gleeful chuckle.

"What makes you think that?" Fluttershy's dad said to Perry slowly, pushing the rifle uncomfortably against his head.

"You did, actually. That is your favorite gun, which you used during the old days. Older rifles take time to reload, which you didn't have with how fast you came out in response to our arrival. You would never keep it loaded because the powder could possibly discharge accidently. Due to your time as a soldier, you would have learned that and always followed through," he stared down at Perry for several seconds before finally speaking.

"Name's Squall. You past the first test, but I still have my eyes on you, boy," he removed the rifle from Perry and went over to Fluttershy, who was still in a state of frozen shock. He hugged her tightly and smiled happily. "What a pleasure it is to see my little princess! Glad you could come visit you old dad every once in a while. How have you been?" Squall asked his daughter.

"Umm...umm..." she couldn't speak, the words far from gone after that little incident.

"Actually, this was her idea, Mr. Squall," Perry said to him. Fluttershy looked over to Perry, wondering what it was he was doing. "You see, she insisted that I come and meet you, because she wouldn't want you to not be included in something as important as this. Right, Fluttershy?" Perry looked over to her, along with Mr. Squall.

"O-Of course! I really did miss you, and I figured we could...umm... try and have a nice dinner together," Fluttershy said to her dad. "I can get started on it while you...well...get to know Perry!"

"I don't like the thought of strangers coming into my home...and boy..."

"It is Perry, sir..." Perry said, kind of tired of being called boy.

"Boy..." Squall gave an extra emphasis on the boy part. "... you be a stranger one if I have ever seen one. A real man looks at a person without wearing such stupid looking things. Take it off, or you can forget coming in..." Fluttershy looked nervously at the two.

"Perry doesn't like ..." she was interrupted by Perry, who put his hand to his mask.

"So, I am allowed to enter if I remove this mask, correct?" Perry asked politely.

"You heard me right. Take it off, and then you can enter," Fluttershy watched intently as Perry took a deep breath, and took his mask off. Fluttershy and Squall both gasped when they looked at his face. He had on another identical mask underneath it. Letting loose a quiet snicker, he walked towards the door.

"The mask has been removed. May I come in now? It would be a real shame to see a real man go back on his word," Perry grinned from beneath his cover. Squall glared up at Perry, only to grumble as he moved to the side granting him and Fluttershy entrance into his home.

"You're a tricky little shit, I will give you that. Don't think you can pull a fast one like that on me again," he turned to Fluttershy, and smiled nicely. Perry watched, truly wondering if this man just hated everyone else in existence. "Dear, why don't you get started on dinner, while I get to know your new...friend here?" he asked, slightly cringing at the friend part.

"Umm sure...please behave, you two," Fluttershy said to them. She was worried that she might walk out and witness a war torn battlefield. She sighed and walked into the kitchen.

"So, your daughter tells me..." Perry started but was rudely interrupted by Squall.

"Listen here, boy. You're clever, too clever. I don't like people like you, always scheming and planning. I don't know what you think you're doing, but you can forget about dating my daughter," Perry sighed and looked at him

"I don't mean to sound rude, but I wanted to meet you as a formality of good intentions. If you don't feel like giving me permission, I can assure you that I will simply not care," Perry said calmly. "I am not after your approval, do not care what you do to try and keep her from me, and personally your tough man act may have scared others, but I have dealt with far worse..."

"You really are a little bastard," Squall said glaring. He stood up and got in Perry's face. "You don't even have a clue who you're dealing with. I am former Major Squall, descendant of Commander Hurricane. I have seen more battles than any soft and proper little joker like you, and I have done things for this country that even you could not comprehend. So don't think I couldn't stop you from corrupting my little girl and sending you to the farthest reaches of hell," Perry simply chuckled. He didn't feel like arguing that point with this man and simply decided to change the topic.

"What do you do nowadays?" Perry said in a calm demeanor, prompting more mean stares from Squall, obviously not amused at Perry's lack of caring.

"Young people like you really have no idea how easy you have it," Squall started to yell, prompting Fluttershy to peek around the corner. "People like me had to ...."

"Sacrifice alot for us to blah blah blah," Squall grabbed Perry by the collar of his shirt, though it did not keep Perry from talking. "I have heard that so many times now, that I stopped keeping count. Seriously, you keep on about your commitment and sacrifice. I thank you for that, but you're so self absorbed in your own accomplishments that you feel no remorse in judging others who you believe are no where near as good as you are, or in your case once were. Now put me down please, as I would rather not cause a scene and would prefer to have a nice dinner with the woman I care about and her family," he continued to glare, before putting Perry down.

"What could possibly make you think that you are so perfect for her?" Squall asked.

"There is and never will be such a thing as perfect. It is only in your head as a standard to use against her finding her own happiness at the risk of displeasing you," Perry figured he might as well do the smart thing and just end all discussions here. He took a deep breath to calm himself down before speaking. "I sure as hell didn't want to have to do this, but you seem like the kind of person who only listens to the drums of battle. I wager a challenge if you are interested," Perry spoke calmly. Squall raised an eyebrow towards him.

"What makes you think I am dumb enough to fall for one of your cons?" he responded, eyeing Perry curiously.

"No cons, no mind games. A simple test of physical strength. Since I can't fly, rule that out. Otherwise you may pick the challenge. I will not use any magic to change the course in my favor, and even if I tried, someone with your experience should be able to point me out anyways," Perry said calmly, looking down the old man as he contemplated the idea."

"I win, you go away and stay out of my daughters life?" Squall asked.

"Indeed, but the reward for me winning must be just as fit. If I win..." Perry and Squall's eyes were locked as Perry made his ultimatum clear. "You have a nice quiet dinner with us and try to enjoy it. I know how hard that would be for you so it is only fair," Perry chuckled, causing the man in front of him to grumble. Squall had the advantage, as he could chose any physical competition that he sees fit, even a fight to the death. It was a nice thought, but the mess would be too hard to hide, and he didn't have the right to kill. Squall grinned slightly, the look managing to shake Perry's nerves slightly.

"Arm wrestling. Simplest way to prove a man's strength and weed out weaklings," the conversation had caught the attention of Fluttershy, who could only watch the dramatic challenge play out. Perry prepared to fight her father in an epic clash for the right to win her love. She stared at both men, finding the entire thing slightly stupid and aggravating, but they had already decided. Sure it may have just been an arm wrestling contest, but it was a duel nonetheless. Perry got up and followed Squall, as he made his way into the kitchen.

Perry watched curiously as Squall pulled out an official arm wrestling set-up from a closet. "I take it you are quite into this arm wrestling sport then?" Perry asked, quite amused at how proper this was going to be.

"Umm my dad...is umm...a five time Equestrian champion," Fluttershy said nervously. Squall grinned, rolling up his sleeve. His arm was massive, obviously built up from many hard work out sessions. Perry rolled his up as well, and though his arm wasn't nearly as built, the muscle build was there from long hours of acrobatic training and combat practice. Both took their seats, placing their elbows on the cushion and grabbing the grips to the side, a precaution so they couldn't use their other arm. Finally they interlocked their hands and gripped tightly.

"Sir, you have a strong grip. Much could be said about the grip of a man," Perry said calmly.

"Same to you, but your still a twig compared to me. The rules are simple. No letting go of the grip, no magic, and no fancy hand twists of the such. A simple test of arm strength, and nothing more."

Fluttershy watched as they were ready to start. She didn't know what to think at this point. The entire thing could have been easily avoided if her dad wasn't being so stubborn, and if Perry wasn't so confident in his own abilities. Was Perry really capable of taking her father on, and would he really be gone from her life if he lost? All the thoughts continued to bother her as she watched the two most wonderful idiots in her life go at it. She was angry, nervous, and slightly happy all at the same time, though her outward appearance could be seen as stunned, simply watching and waiting for what was to occur to begin.

"Three..." Squall counted.

"Two..."

"One..."

"GO!"

Both of the men's grips tightened as they started to force each other onto the table. Squall was strong, one of the stronger people Perry has ever faced in anything. He was obviously a champion for a good reason. Perry, on the other hand, though not taking any ground, was not giving any either. Squall couldn't help but be surprised that he could manage to stave off his force. They were neck in neck, their arms twitching as they tried to force each other back. Fluttershy watched intently, as this was possibly the most important arm wrestling match in her life, something not many ever get to say, or would ever say due to embarrassment.

The seconds dragged on into minutes and both had barely done more than move a few inches left and right. Squall was getting tired out though, while Perry's muscles, burning up more energy to manage to hold Squall in place, were still built with a combination of strength and endurance in mind. Squall, knowing he didn't have much left in the tank, decided to put it all into one powerful finish, attempting to take Perry out. Using every ounce of strength, he attempted to smash Perry through the table if he could. Squall's reaction could be seen as that of disbelief as, though he managed to move Perry greatly, he was still an inch from hitting. Perry used this surprise to deliver the finisher to Squall. With as much force as he could manage, Perry reversed the direction and slammed Squalls hand into the table hard. The sound of the hand hitting could be heard reverberating all throughout the house. Squall simply stared in awe, both panting heavily.

"YAAAAAAAY!" Fluttershy yelled, letting out the loudest yay she has ever done, jumping up and down happily. If Rainbow were here, she would have been proud of her. She ran up and hugged Perry, causing Squall to flinch slightly. Though it was tough, as a man of honor, he didn't say anything and accepted the loss. She looked at both of the men, their hands still interlocked on the table. "Umm, you know you can let go now," both Squall and Perry looked at each other, and nodded in understanding. Perry chuckled slightly.

"I don't think we can right now," he said slowly.

"Happens all the time, we just need a minute to get feeling back in our arms...in the meantime...Perry," he started to frown slightly, but kept his strong appearance, "you are welcome to stay for dinner. You had better be on your best behavior, though, because I will chase you out with Bessie if I so happen to suspect you're doing something despicable with my little Shy here," Fluttershy blushed at the comment, while Perry nodded in agreement.

"I have no issue with that. Also, thank you for actually calling me Perry. I don't think we will be needing to shake hands now at the least," Perry said, laughing.

"Definitely an understatement," Squall responded, letting loose a small chuckle of his own.

"So...you also don't eat meat," Squall said, taking a bite of his salad as he watched Perry stick his fork up his mask. The thing was unsettling to him, but after Fluttershy explained that this is normal, he accepted it, though it wouldn't not bother him.

"Yes, though it's more of a lifestyle choice than anything else. By the way, Fluttershy, this tofu steak is delicious," she smiled at the complement.

"Thank you. My dad loves to eat meat, and would eat it all the time if possible," Fluttershy said.

"But, being considerate of my little girls feelings, I do tend to keep a nice supply of alternative products...not crazy about them, but if it's for her, then I can live," Squall said, swallowing a piece of his own steak now. "Now, Perry, what exactly do you do at the castle?" Squall asked, trying to at least be civil.

"I entertain guests of the Princesses, and sometimes accompany them on trips," Perry told Squall.

"And you got as strong as you are doing that?" Perry nodded.

"Having an extra body guard was always useful, so I train when I can to stay in shape. After all, it's fun and games until someone loses an eye," Perry said, chuckling.

"Can't disagree with you there. Better than being a chicken. So how long have you known my Fluttershy here?" Squall looked over at Fluttershy, seeing her blush and smile.

"Almost a week," Perry responded, getting an odd look from him.

"A week... not a lot of time to get to know someone," Squall frowned. Perry laughed in responce.

"It is true, but there is something special about her, an odd connection that just worked," Perry said to him.

"I would argue with you, but I can relate," Squall, for the first time, looked sad. Perry could understand why, as Fluttershy had told him before.

"It's fine, I understand. Fluttershy told me about her mother."

"A story for another time then, I suppose," Squall recomposed himself and looked at the two. Both Perry and Fluttershy nodded, not wanting to upset him anymore.

The rest of the dinner was quiet. Perry helped Fluttershy clean up, his water manipulation spell making it go twice as fast. Squall sat in the living room, looking at some old photo's of days past. Fluttershy and Perry soon joined Squall, taking a seat by him. Squall put the photo album down, and looked over to Perry.

"I still don't like you, but I accept the fact that you are dating my daughter," he looked over to Fluttershy and smiled. "Honey, could you get me a cup of tea please."

"Of course. Perry would you like one as well?" Perry nodded. Fluttershy got up and walked into the kitchen. When she was around the corner, Squall quickly grabbed Perry by the neck and pulled him close to his face and started to whisper into his ear.

"You ever do anything to break my little angel's heart, I will make you regret ever being considered a though. People will vomit at the mention of the things that I would do. Is that clear?" Perry knew a threat when he heard one, and that was legit.

"Crystal clear, sir. I will treat her with the kind of respect that a fine lady like her deserves," Perry said. Squall held him for a few more seconds before putting him down. Right in time as Fluttershy just walked in with the cups of tea. She gave the cups to the men and sat down next to Perry.

"After this, we should be going. It is getting late, after all," Fluttershy said to Perry. "With everything that has happened, I would rather not get caught in another monster attack...That last one was scary," Squall looked over to the two curiously.

"I heard about that from the neighbors. Something about a huge furry rhino looking creature, though it didn't do much damage. You weren't there, were you?" he asked, showing more concern than anger. Fluttershy looked down and nodded.

"Sorry...it just...well...happened where me and Perry were. I passed, out and when I woke up I was safe at my friend Twilight's home," she said.

"Well I am glad that you are safe at least. What happened to the beast anyways?" Squall looked at her, as she smiled.

"Perry managed to make it go away with the help of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna!" she said happily. He looked over at Perry slightly dumbfounded.

"That little bastard did WHAT?!"

Fluttershy and Perry walked out of the house and headed for the edge of the clouds. After explaining that it was a dream, hinting at Fluttershy to go along with it, Perry was in the clear about having a closer working connection to the Princesses than explained.

"I am sorry, Perry. Please don't be mad," Fluttershy said, looking down at the clouds they were walking on.

"It is fine, Flutters. No harm done. I would just rather not go about explaining what I do to everyone. Maybe one day we can tell him. He would be shocked if he found out I technically outrank him," Perry laughed.

"I don't think he would mind. He is a nice man, if he lets you get to know him," Fluttershy smiled. "He was a great father, and though he is on the protective side, he will always be special to me," they finally arrives at the edge of the cloud. Fluttershy started to lift the back of her sweater, but Perry stopped her and held out his hand.

"You did enough going up, I have the return trip. Just grab on and relax," Perry said. Fluttershy avoided his hand and hugged him instead. Perry was once again glad for the mask, because all of this blushing was completely unlike him. It made him feel all warm and fuzzy. He hugged back, as he leapt off the cloud. "Feather's Grace," the purplish orb surrounded the two, reducing the fall to a slow and steady float. Fluttershy admired the night scenery from above. Even when she did fly, she never did it at night. Her first time, however, gave view to the lights of Canterlot and Ponyville twinkling along the ground.

"Wow...it's...just...wow..." she looked all around, Perry moving them towards the direction of her cottage, couldn't help but just stare at her. It was something to see her happy, but sharing in the happiness with her made it all the better. She looked over to Perry, who took her by surprise when he moved the mask to the side slightly to be able to plant a soft kiss on her lips. He held it there only for an instant, before pulling back and sliding the mask back on. She giggled and blushed at his quick but affectionate action. She rested her head into his chest, and slowly fell asleep while in the air.

Perry guided them back to solid ground, near her house, Fluttershy still sound asleep in his arms. Perry released the spell and walked inside her house, continuing to carry her up to her bedroom. He gently laid her down and tucked her in, before giving her one more kiss goodnight.

Perry's walk home was filled with happiness and a feeling of being triumphant. He had fought a great battle today, Fluttershy's father, and came out as the victor. That other guy was just a quick warm-up, Perry almost completely forgetting about him. Perry walked into his home happy to be himself for once. He knew he was kind of blowing of his responsibilities, but everything would be fine.

Darkness Rising

Chapter 19: Darkness Rising

Perry woke up from his slumber with a loud knocking at his door. Getting up he could feel that something was wrong, a feeling within the air itself, but he couldn't really tell what it was. He quickly got dressed and went to answer the continuous knocking. The moment he opened it, Applejack ran inside and shut the door. She was breathing heavily, and looked as if her world was coming apart.

"Applejack, what's wrong?!" Perry asked, concerned for his friend.

"M...my family...I can't find my family!" she started to cling to him. Not sure what to do, he gently patted her shoulder.

"When was the last time you seen them?" Perry asked, looking at the distraught cow girl.

"I..I was opening the stall...and...and then they were missing!" she continued to sob, shaking and trembling into him.

"It is alright, Applejack. I will help you look," Perry said reassuringly. He moved to the door, Applejack following close by. As he opened the door, the sight he witnessed could be seen as nothing short of astounding. The sky was practically dark, the light of Celestia's sun unable to shine through the black clouds. That isn't what surprised Perry so much, though. It was the people running about, some of them screaming, others were yelling or hiding. They were fighting each other in the streets, often getting violent and bloody. Perry didn't know what to think of the spectacle, but it strangely excited him. He held back his feelings to give aid to Applejack, who was running through the crowds to the stand. Perry followed closely, looking around for any signs of sanity, and failing. There was no sign of anything that would be deemed normal, making everything so much stranger. Getting to the stand finally, he spotted Big Mac there, yelling at any all who approached him. "Applejack, I see your brother watching the stand," she looked over there, but continued to sob.

"Perry, don't lie to me! He isn't there! They're all missing! I...I am all alone," she said, shaking and trembling. Perry couldn't help but be thoroughly concerned. This was far from right. Even so, why did he feel like this is meant to be.

"Applejack...I have to go. If I find them, I will send them to you, until then, stay by the stall and don't go anywhere," Perry said, as he made his way to Twilight's. On arrival, he happened across Rainbow Dash, curled in a ball on the ground screaming. "Rainbow, what is wrong with you?" he asked, afraid of what the answer might be.

"My Wings! They are gone!" she screamed, crying loudly. Looking at Rainbow, her wings were fine and where they should be, just curled tightly around her.

"Rainbow, you still..."

"Leave me alone! Just stay away from me!" Rainbow screamed at him, not bothering to hear him out. He left her be, needing to get to the root of the problem. He opened Twilights door, and walked in quickly. Twilight was running about, screaming about not getting a letter. Perry was afraid that he would come across this.

"Princess, please don't expel me!" Twilight wailed at the top of her lungs. "Spike!" she yelled, a tired looking dragon walking into the room. "Hurry and send this one, maybe she will forgive me!" Twilight was practically hysterical. Spike, on the other hand, looked tired and worn. Perry walked up to her and grabbed the letter. "Hey! That's for Princess Celestia."

"I got this one. Let the little guy rest for a second," Perry sent the letter off with the spell. Spike walked up to him, and slouched into his arms.

"Thanks...you have no idea how rough it has been. She has been like this for hours. Celestia keeps sending..." Spike burped out a green flame with a letter. "...these to let her know everything is fine...but...it's like..."

"She can't even see them, Perry said slowly. "Have you seen Zecora today?"

"No I haven't. She must have gone out early this morning, before I was even up. Hope she is alright," Spike said, looking worried.

Perry stood there thinking. "What about you? You seem fine. Have you felt weird today?" he asked.

"Yeah, but for the most part, it hasn't bothered me," Spike said, still in a drowsy state.

"Ok, glad at least one other person is normal. Must be your dragon lineage," Perry said.

"What do you mean?" Spike asked curiously.

"Some dragons have a higher tolerance for magical effects. That's why you're not going insane like everyone else out there. Spike, you need to get everyone else in here where they can be safe. Rainbow won't be hard, since she is curled up into a ball outside, but for everyone else it might be difficult. Avoid anyone else, and remember, your own safety takes priority, so don't try and be a hero. I am going to go get Fluttershy and bring her here, then we can figure out what is going on," Perry said to him.

"What about you? Why are you not crazy like everyone else?" Spike asked, slightly concerned.

Perry grinned towards Spike. "Can't make me any more crazy than I already am," he laughed, Spike hitting his face with his own palm.

Perry ran as quickly as he could to Fluttershy's, dodging an avoiding everyone else running in the street. Not concerned about how he looked to everyone, he sprinted as his full, unhindered pace, rivaling Rainbow's normal flight speed. Perry was far from not worried. Everyone was acting completely crazy, and Perry couldn't figure out what was going on, or even more so, why he wasn't affected like everyone else. The more Perry thought about it, the more stressed he became. His worries were only increased at the lack of light inside Fluttershy's home as he arrived. He opened the door quickly, not even giving a damn anymore.

"Fluttershy!? Are you here!?" Perry yelled out. There was no response. He searched the house, but she was not there. Perry stopped and took deep breaths. "Ok...remain calm Perry. You hunt down people for a living, so this shouldn't be hard. He looked around the house closely. Starting from Fluttershy's bedroom. "Ok, bed isn't made. She possibly didn't have time to get it done, or she doesn't make it in the morning," Perry continued to look around the room. "Fluttershy did get out of bed like normal, though quickly," walking the path out of her room, Perry walked into the bathroom. "No sign of anything out of the ordinary in here. Continuing into the kitchen," Perry continued to talk himself through the situation to keep himself calm. He moved towards the kitchen, taking a look around. "No residual moisture in the sink, which means that either she cleaned and dried it after use or it wasn't used since last time," Perry's look around the kitchen seemed to have only added in more speculations than facts. He sighed, and looked outside. Perry jumped at what he seen. Simply leaning against a tree near a large field, was a grinning man.

This man wore black body armor, along with matching gauntlets and greaves. Atop his dark black hair was a silver circlet with a red horn design at the front. On his back, a regal cape flowing towards the ground. What Perry truly noticed, however, was those evil eyes. They had a green where they would normally be white, with red pupils, and they were looking at him, almost as if he was inviting Perry. Opening the window, Perry jumped out of it and quickly made his way over to him. He could feel powerful magic surging around him, strengthening the feeling he has felt all day. It was a feeling of fear, strong and vile. Perry managed to fight the effects on him, though, as he needed to get to the bottom of this.

"Who the hell are you?" Perry asked calmly. The man simply smiled and stood there.

"It is quite a nice day, don't you think? Been too long since I have had a physical body to enjoy it with," he stretched himself out and continued to lean against the tree, almost as if he didn't have a care in the world.

"That is great and all, but frankly, I don't give a damn. You're the one responsible for this madness here, am I assuming correctly?" Perry said, maintaining a strong front. The man chuckled, not even looking over at Perry anymore. Perry decided to try and take him out without question, and made a dash at him the moment he turned his gaze. This was stopped suddenly by the man's metal boot colliding with Perry's stomach, sending him flying back into the cottage. The impact made a large dent in the side, Perry falling down onto the ground.

"Oh that was just the most adorable thing I have witnessed in ages. Such bloodlust and rage. This is why you are not so easily affected by my spell," Perry groaned and tried to stand, but fumbled repeatedly, hacking up a storm as the kick and the impact knocked the wind right out of him. "I love the taste of another's fear. Their doubts. They fill me with power, making me strong. I have had to recover, though, as my last encounter with those blasted elements resulted in me nearly being obliterated," Perry, finally standing, started to walk back towards him slowly. "The last of my essence made its way here, the Crystal Empire no longer suitable for me. I was incapable of growing on the nearly non existent fear there. I eventually found the Everfree Forest, apparently an excellent source of fear for this town. I fed, and grew, until finally I was back to my full strength. Oh if I would have had just another day, the Crystal Empire would have surely been mine, but now I will just have to settle with the world," he spoke calmly, almost without a thought that he could be stopped.

"My spell, Worst Nightmare, is doing wonders on the citizens of this town, don't you think? Not only do I get to feed of the never-ending supply of fear, but those blasted girls are too scared to do anything," his grin stopped, though, as he glared at Perry, sending a chill of evil energy his way. "YOU, on the other hand, have proven to be a bit harder to succumb to this spell. Not surprising, really. That is why I had to take initiative against you, to keep you from becoming a very annoying thorn in my side."

He moved from his spot, revealing Fluttershy lying in the ground. She was still, not moving one bit. Perry's eyes widened at the sight of her there. "You...what...have...you...DONE!? Perry yelled, barely able to restrain himself.

"It is actually kind of funny. Poor girl here is so skittish, that her own fears practically incapacitated her. She is still alive, mind you, but she shut herself down to prevent going into shock," he told Perry, though this did anything but make him feel better. His blood was boiling, he wanted to see this man's entrails smeared across the landscape, but he was also afraid for her safety if he tried to attack. His two warring sides drew in a laugh from the enemy. "You will not be able to hold out much longer, I can feel the fear starting to make its way into your heart," Perry was right, he was afraid. Afraid of losing what he had come to treasure most in life. He wanted to attack, to unleash an unholy terror on him, but on the other hand, Perry didn't want to hurt Fluttershy or cause him to hurt her.

"...What do you want from me?" Perry said slowly, staring at the man.

"In all reality, it isn't what I want, it's what you want. You want to be able to indulge in that glorious bloodlust that you so try to hide behind that of a gentlemanly appearance. I want you to be my dark knight, serving besides me, and in return, she will be safe for you to do as you please with her. It is everything you would want, and you wouldn't have to worry about the social implications of your actions, no one would stand between you and your whims. Within days, the Worst Nightmare will spread all across Equestria, causing more people to give in to fear, and causing my power to grow to continue to spread the effect. It is a glorious cycle, and it would be a shame for my next of kin to not bask in it with me," he said, laughing. Perry looked at him, confused and surprised at his comment.

"Next...of kin?" Perry asked, not really sure how to respond.

"The Sombra blood flows through your veins as well as it did your father and his father before. That damned Celestia cursed our blood ages ago to prevent the spread of the evil seeds within us. I managed to counteract the spell before hand, but unfortunately it wasn't completely capable of preventing the curse, as some of it still managed to effect me. As such, only one child may be born from any one descendant, and it will always be a boy. You are the current son of Sombra, heir to the dark legacy that I offer. I only want to spread the rule of our family to all, and want you by my side, my grandchild."

Perry stood there in shock, everything was all becoming clear. He thought back to his past, his father training him to be lethal and deadly. Always saying we have privileges over the others of this world, given to us by divine creed. Perry understood the reason for his fathers last words before he killed him. 'Your potential has fully bloomed. Now go, my son. Show the world our strife and anger, and let it be known that you are destined for greatness.' Perry dropped to his knees, screaming and shouting incoherently. Everything was true. He could feel it. There was no mistaking that he was destined to rule along side his ancestor and become the agent of death he was always meant to be. He went quiet.

"You are right, grandfather..." Perry spoke after a few seconds. He got up and walked towards him, chuckling happily. "I am sorry for the way I acted towards you."

"I am glad you can see it my way. You will make a wonderful king, Pierrot," Sombra said to Perry. Perry grinned happily, looking up at his great grandfather. Sombra was about to pat his shoulder, when something stopped him. Perry threw his fist as hard as he could into the face of the tyrant, sending him flying across the field before him. Perry picked up Fluttershy and carried her to her house. Setting her down, he turned towards the angered king, walking quickly back towards Perry. Perry did the same, chuckling under his mask.

"Your face is priceless, gramps," Perry said as they approached. "You honestly thought I would want to join you. We may have the same blood, but we are nothing alike."

"You little whelp! Don't think you have won because you got a cheap punch on me," they stopped feet apart from each other. "You could have it all, fame, power, anything your heart desires. Why give it all up so easily?" Sombra asked.

"You really have no idea, huh? It is simple really, there is only one thing I want anymore. I want to see that woman over there happy, and though what you say is appealing as all hell, and even I am calling myself crazy for it, it would be a world where she would be miserable and unhappy. I can not except that."

"So this is where my lineage has led to. No worries, once I kill that damned Princess, the curse will die with her, and then I will have the heir that I deserve," Sombra said, unhooking his cape and tossing it to the side. "In the meantime, I should discipline you for being insolent."

"Discipline me? That is cute, but I have to apologize. You're the one who needs a lesson in love and tolerance towards others, and I will gladly be the one to beat it into you with a smile on my face."

"This is as far as I can go, Captain," the voice came from an old carriage driver, as he stopped in front of a giant glowing field. His old looking wooden cart's doors opened up to reveal a man, wearing golden armor which covered almost his entire body. His sharp blue eyes, matching his long blue hair, looked into the distance to see Ponyville, the darkness looming above it from the evil magic.

"Thank you for your help, sir. You are a brave man for willing to go out this way, and I do commend you," he looked inside the cabin of the carriage. "All right, let's move out. Make sure you're wearing those amulets the princesses gave you," he backed away, as two men stepped out of the carriage.

The first man wore a simple pale blue robe, going all the way down to the ground. His head was clean shaven, making his emerald eyes the only thing bright. "Your concern is appreciated, young Shining Armor, but need not worry. I have made sure to don thy protective relic."

"Seriously, why can't you talk like a normal person? It is always 'hither ye lad, I am old!'" The second man grinned as he spoke.

He wore a nice black suit, topped with a fedora of the matching color. He tipped up the hat to look over everything with his piercing brown eyes. His long brown hair matching them made its way halfway down his back, almost twice as long as Shining's.

"Seriously, Catacomb? That form again?" Shining said to the hatted man.

"What? Ladies love the look. Or would you prefer something more towards your liking. I can do your wife if you want?" he said, chuckling. Shining glared at him, knowing fully of the real meaning behind his words.

"Young changeling, your words need to be selected more carefully. It sounds as if you made implications that you are willing to engage in intercourse with Shining Armor's significant other," the bald man said, stating what seemed to be an obvious fact.

"Don't bother, Reader. Once an ass, always an ass," Shining told the bald man.

"And that ass, oh man!" Catacomb said, nudging Shining Armor with his elbow. "I can only imagine what it's like to come home and tap that. Should invite me one of these days. Man, woman or something in between if you are feeling freaky."

"I am going to forget that I heard that, because you are more useful alive than dead," Shining Armor said to Catacomb.

"Young one's, as amusing as your usual banter is, I do believe we should make haste to town," Reader said to the others. "The masked one is going to need assistance with thy enemy, and all of Equestria's fate hangs in the delicate balance of us succeeding on this perilous mission."

"You're right," Shining said. "Lets go, Catacomb," they all started walking, moving into and past the barrier, the amulets shining slightly, letting the wearers know they are working.

"You guys want to hear my new theme song?" Catacomb asked.

"Do not bother, young changeling. It is dull, you lack proper rhythm, and your rhyming is terribly off. Generally why talented musicians generally avoid using the word orange," Reader criticized before he even began.

"Seriously, I told you to stop that mind invasion stuff! It creeps me out," Catacomb said, his energy having somewhat vanished. "Why won't you do that when I ask you to?"

"Because," Shining Armor started to speak, "picking up women in bars is a terrible misuse of such a powerful ability."

"Hey, don't be like that. A guy's gotta eat!" he said casually.

"We should most definitely make haste, fellows. The mental state of the town is in complete disarray, and heavens knows what could happen," Reader said to the others.

"Don't worry," Shining Armor said, holding out a small box he had been carrying," these were designed for situations such as this. I can only hope that Perry is fairing well without proper protection."

"Don't worry about that guy. He is tougher than a rock. Crazier too, though compared to a rock I guess that ain't saying much. Supposed to make you go nuts, though. Knowing that, he's fine. Doubt he could be any less sane if he wanted to be," Catacomb chuckled.

"I just hope so, Cata," Shining replied. They walked in silence for several minutes, getting closer to the distraught town. The quiet in the air and the way the wind blow giving the three men a stoic appearance.

"GO GO GO TEST GO!" Catacomb sang, breaking the silence. Shining armor rubbed his temples, grunting slightly

"...Let's just go..."

Birth of a True Monster

Chapter 20: Birth of a True Monster

Perry and Sombra's eyes were locked against each other. The dark king stared down the mad clown, having officially declared each other enemies. Perry wanted to go all out, but he still needed to consider the unconscious Fluttershy's safety. Sombra knew this, and would try to use it to his advantage. On the other hand, he had to hold back as well, due to maintaining his magical field. Maintaining such magic at the very least would prevent him from being able to cast other spells. Perry could take advantage of this to attempt to overpower him in physical combat.

Perry made the first move, charging Sombra, keeping up a more defensive approach. Sombra was faster than he gave the appearance of, and had a mean kick. Perry had to play smart if he was to take him down. Throwing a series of punches, Sombra effortlessly blocked them.

Finding an opening in Perry's assault, he started to throw his own punches, forcing Perry on the defensive as he could only block now. Sombra's speed and strength was absurd, especially for someone who until today had no actual body. Perry could only prevent himself from getting decked by Sombra, taking a small opening to back off from the assault. His breathing was heavy as Sombra now charged on the offensive. Perry dodged the charge, but saw he was headed for Fluttershy.

"Gravity Well!" Perry focused the mana around him into a small black orb within his hand. Sombra grunted as he was being pulled back towards the orbs pull. Perry ran towards him, dispelling the well and throwing a kick at the disorientated Sombra. The kick knocked him into the ground several feet to the left. Perry, now grinning under his mask, had the advantage. Even Sombra couldn't handle his spells as he was. Perry walked towards the downed Sombra and started to chant. "Hold down that which soars. Bind down to the land in which we walk. Give way to all that resides, granting a swift entrance. Hide away the light, and pull darkness in, where angels dare not fly..." Perry charged up his spell, getting ready to deliver the finisher to Sombra. "Gra.."

"Crystal Spear!" Sombra pointed at Perry, a black light hitting him and getting smaller quickly as if it was focusing. From it, a large dark spear made of crystal impaled him through the left shoulder. Perry stood there in shock, trying to process what happened, as his blood started to spill on the ground. As the pain finally reached him, he cringed and cried out, falling to his knees. He tried to pull the spear out, but the crystal barbs of the object made it impossible without tearing his shoulder to shreds.

"DAMN IT!" Perry cried out. Sombra got up and chuckled.

"Aww, I missed. I was going for your heart, but still, that does the trick, I guess," Sombra taunted the downed Perry, still clenching his arm. Sombra moved his heavy armor down somewhat, revealing the Alicorn's Amulet sitting on his neck. "Beautiful charm. It gives you power, but makes you evil. I wonder if I could even be any more evil. Either way, I am capable of using magic easily while keeping the field growing strong."

"Wh...What...did you...do ...to Zecora..." Perry asked, breathing heavily.

"She tried like you, struggled against the power of my spell, but her efforts were for naught. She will remain in her crystal prison for all of eternity. Maybe I will use her for a garden sculpture," Sombra laughed, making Perry shake with anger.

Perry gripped the crystal, and with all of his strength he could manage, cracked the crystal apart and quickly removed the spear, screaming in pain the entire time. Taking a deep breath, his eyes focused on Sombra again, a new fire started in his eyes. "I have yet to start to fight!" Perry said, even as blood dripped down his now useless arm.

Three men stood in the middle of Ponyville, watching as the chaos unfolded in front of them. Shining Armor, Reader, and Catacomb had arrived, hopefully not to late. "Guys, I need to go make sure my sister is alright. Reader, can you give me a lock on?"

"The Elements of Harmony are being assembled at a large tree in the center of town, most definitely a tree house of sorts..." Reader said to Shining. "...one more element though is near the masked one, and a powerful force...I am trying but I cannot enter the mind of the evil being," Reader looked up in surprise. "Sir, Perry has just been wounded. We need to send assistance!"

"On it!" Catacomb jumped and ran towards the town.

"I'll head to my sister. Reader, stay here and maintain a link with us. If we need you...well I am sure you will know," Shining said before running off. Reader sat down in a meditative position and opened the link between his fellow teammates. He tried to on Perry as well, but the evil energy prevented him from even being able to enter his mind.

'Young changeling, be prepared to lose your link apon reaching them,' Reader spoke directly into Catacombs mind.

'Damn, give me warning next time. Cool with me. By the way, I forgot to ask, but where the hell am I going?' Catacomb asked.

'Currently, you are going in the wrong direction entirely. I will guide you from there. Take a right turn.' Catacomb did as instructed. 'Good. Left...Right...Left at the fork...Now make haste down your current path until you reach a small cottage.'

'Thanks, couldn't have done it without you,' Catacomb said. Reader kept this thought to himself, but even the voice in his companions head was annoying. This was going to be a long and trying day for the mind mage.

Shining Armor didn't need directions, thankfully. He could remember the layout of Ponyville by the maps he had seen prior, and the place he is looking for is a tree with windows, which is arguably hard to miss. Making his was quickly through the crowd of panicking townsfolk, he came across the library with little trouble. Opening the door, he came to realize that this was not going to be as easy as expected. His sister was sitting at her desk writing a mile a minute, her workspace covered in massive amounts of parchment. She was crying, constantly saying 'I'm sorry' over and over again. Rarity, if he remembered correctly, was sobbing on the couch, yelling at herself for being ugly, and saying that no one liked her designs anymore. Rainbow was simply huddled in a corner, sobbing but more silently than the other two. Shining wondered where everyone else was, and started to quickly look around the house. The kitchen held the distraught Applejack, sitting at the kitchen table, just sitting there almost with an eerie quiet. She just stared into a picture of her family, the photo stained with tears. That leaves one more, as Shining Armor heard Spike yelling from upstairs. He quickly ran up to make sure he was ok. Entering a bedroom, he found Spike trying to talk to Pinkie Pie, as she was talking to a mass of inanimate objects. This was an odd scene to say the least, Pinkie's hair was straight, which was a change from her usual cottony appearance. Spike stood there trying to talk her out.

"Spike!" Shining said to him. Spike turned around and smiled widely when he seen his adopted older brother there.

"Shiny, is that you?" Spike asked. He nodded and set the box down, opening it up.

"We don't have time to talk, unfortunately. Get these on the others and have them meet me at Fluttershy's cottage," Shining said, revealing the Elements of Harmony. "These should act as wards for the spell. Tell them to be careful, Spike. It might be dangerous, and they might not like what they see."

"Shiny, what's going on? Why is this happening...I tried so hard to help them, but all I could do was get them here...they are all so..." Shining Armor walked up to Spike, the poor kid almost breaking into tears himself, and gave him a hug.

"Spike...It is alright. You have done an excellent job. Just do this task and get some rest. You deserve it," Shining Armor smiled to Spike, which helped him smile as well.

"Thank you, bro. I can handle this. You hurry and help Perry," Spike gave Shining The Element of Kindness. "He should have Fluttershy with him. Take this for her, I got the rest of them," Shining looked at the necklace with a simple butterfly engraved into its golden surface.

"Don't worry, Spike. Everything will work out. You just have to be strong. I have to go now so take care. I will see you when this mess is straightened out," Spike nodded to Shining Armor, and watched him quickly run out of the Library.

He gathered up all the Elements and started with the closest on to him. Taking a necklace with a balloon engraved in it, he attached it to Pinkie. The design started to glow, surrounding Pinkie in a bright light, her hair starting to go back to normal.

"Pinkie?" Spike asked slowly, hoping that the spell was no longer working on her.

"Oh wow...I feel like I ate too many cupcakes...wait a second! There is no such thing as too many cupcakes!" she said happily to herself. Spike, overwhelmed with emotion now, ran up and hugged Pinkie happily.

"I am so glad it worked. Okay, Pinkie. We need to get the rest of these on our friends, or else they will not be happy again," Spike said. Pinkie's face could be seen as one of pure terror at the thought of never being happy again. It was a scary concept that made her serious for this moment.

"Ok, Spiky. Let's...Get...Joyful!" she said dramatically. She picked up the box and ran out of the bedroom and in almost a scary speed, attached the Elements to whom they properly belonged. Everyone started to glow like she did, their respective elements shining with a bright light. They all started to groan, as if waking from a slumber. Twilight was the first to speak.

"Wh...What happened?" she asked the group as they all slowly assembled in the main room. "And why is everyone here?" Spike ran down the stairs and dive tacked Twilight into a hug.

"Twilight!" he cried out happily. "I thought that I would never get you back again."

"Seriously, what happened?" she asked again. Spike's eyes widened as he remembered what he had to tell them.

"That's right! You're wearing the Elements right now, evil spell, Shining Armor, Fluttershy's cottage, Perry needs help!" he quickly spit out.

"What in tarnation's are ya talking about Spike?" Applejack asked. Everyone else stared at him curiously. Spike retold the events of the day, and how he ended up finding everyone. They all looked upset as he continued the tale of the town. Finally he got to Perry, who had made is way to Fluttershy's and now everyone is to gather there.

"Come on!" Rainbow said as she headed to the door. "We don't have time to spare! If Perry and Flutter's in trouble, standing around here will do nothing!"

"Easy there, Rainbow. We don't know what kind of brute we are dealing with," Rarity said to her overeager friend. Rainbow started to frown, but nodded.

"We should go together, It will be safer that way in case we get attacked," Twilight said. "Let's go, girls!" she yelled with her hand raised triumphantly in the air.

Perry stood there strong, even with his bloodied arm. He wasn't about to lay down and die here. Sombra, on the other hand was still cocky and assured of his victory. It was hard for Perry to disagree with him, as he did have the power to do so, but Perry was never about losing. The wound would only make the kill so much sweeter. Sombra made his move, waving his hand and attempting to shower Perry in a rain of crystal shards. Moving quickly, Perry managed to avoid them.

"Your futility is admirable, if not pathetic," Sombra said with a chuckle. "You won't last long against me."

"Nah, I think I am going to kill you. It will be hard, but that just makes it that much more fun!" Perry laughed. Sombra prepared another shard attack, but Perry quickly countered with his gravity well. Stepping back from it, he let the shards orbit once before releasing the well, sending them flying right back at Sombra. He quickly form a crystal shield in front of him to block the attack, and then a sword in his other hand.

"You're still full of tricks, I see. It is quite fun to see a cornered rat fight so hard to survive," Sombra said. He quickly made his charge at Perry, swinging his sword. Perry rolled out of the way. Gravity well, was useful and quick, but it was also very draining for him. Augment would be useful here, but between the shards and the sword, he had no time to chant. If this kept up, Sombra would eventually get a hit in, and that will be the end. Perry, not watching his surroundings, tripped over a small rock in the ground, sending him to the ground. Sombra, taking the opportunity, quickly went in for the finish. As the sword was about to connect to Perry's head, it was suddenly sent flying out of Sombra's hand and into a nearby tree. Sombra' stunned by this, was then sent flying back himself...by another Perry.

"Really, you're going to die on me here?" the second Perry said. "You still owe me a hundred bits," he offered his hand to himself and helped him up.

"Well, long time no see, Cata," he looked over at Sombra and then back at Catacomb, who now took his favored shape. "Well, shit must be really bad If they have more than one of us here."

"All of us, actually," Catacomb smiled. Perry laughed, even though that meant that this was a whole lot worse than anyone could have predicted.

"Wow, this might be worse than that demon attack," Perry said, still keeping an eye on Sombra.

"Entire fate of Equestria, Dark Tyrant, yadda yadda yadda. You catch my drift?" Catacomb said, also keeping an eye on the target. Sombra smiled, looking over the two.

"Well this is a surprise. Someone else who isn't effected," Sombra said to Catacomb.

"Yup. Sorry to burst yer bubble there, but your magic kinda sucks," he grinned. Sombra smiled at the duo.

"Killing one was easy enough so far, so two should be no issue," Sombra said.

"Well, Perry, what do you say? Two to tango?" Catacomb asked, taking Perry's form yet again, even mimicking the open wound and bloodied shirt.

"I thought you would never ask. You're so sweet," Perry smiled. They both charged at Sombra, Catacomb moving exactly the same as Perry. Sombra quickly called back his sword, and swung it, sending another wave of crystals at the two. They both quickly moved to the sides, flanking Sombra as they ran in for an attack. Sombra was now caught on the defensive. As he swung at one Perry, the other one could easily take the opening and strike him. He barely managed to block the hit with his shield, giving the opposite the opening. They moved almost perfectly together, as if this was rehearsed hundreds of times. Catacomb was apparently just as skilled in physical combat as Perry. Sombra wasn't able to hold them down and eventually both of them were landing in hits, constantly knocking Sombra between them back and forth. In a quick movement, however, Sombra quickly casted a spell, crystal spikes shooting out of the ground. Both Perry and Catacomb were forced to jump back from the attack to avoid becoming pin cushions.

"Damn it, almost had him," Catacomb said to Perry. Sombra looked rightfully pissed off now.

"Never have I been so humiliated by simple mortals!" he yelled out to the two.

"Umm pardon me, but weren't you defeated by a small boy and a weakened princess?" Perry said, laughing at Sombra. This infuriated Sombra to no end. He quickly charged one Perry with a burst of speed not seen before, and almost managed to strike him down. The blade was stopped yet again, this time by a force field. Sombra quickly glared up to see someone else he wished to forget. Shining Armor stood there walking towards Sombra with his own sword out.

"Well, talk about surprised," Shining Armor said to Sombra. "I thought we got rid of you awhile ago," Sombra looked at the group, backing away slightly.

"Well, I guess it is safe to say you think you have me now...You know nothing!"Sombra yelled out, showering the entire battlefield in a rain of crystals. Shining was easily able to deflect them with his barrier spell.

"Alright everyone, let's end this so I can go home and enjoy myself," Shining Armor said.

"Hey, Perry? Think you can introduce me to a few babelicious girls here once this is done?" Catacomb asked, changing back to his original form, standing where he was without a care in the world.

'Do not forget thy ally in the backgrounds.' A voice appeared in all of their heads. ' It took much effort, but I was successful in penetrating the impermeable shroud that surrounded thy battle-scarred field.'

"Well it seems that the whole gang is together," Perry said. "I hope you don't mind, but I owe this asshole one heck of a bloody death, preferably painful."

"Normally I would object," Shining Armor stated "But the more quickly we get this done the better," he tossed Perry the necklace he had kept on him. "You go take care of her. We can handle this," Perry looked at the necklace for a second, before nodding. He quickly ran off the battlefield towards Fluttershy. Sombra attempted to throw another spear at his back, but Shining was too quick with the defensive spells, and the attack bounced off the barrier harmlessly.

"Alright Reader, sync our minds together, and be prepared to feed real time strategies," Shining Armor said to his distant friend.

'Preparing...minds in tune...now!' Each of them felt their perceptions of the field increase, almost interloping with everyone else's views. They were also capable of hearing each others thoughts, giving them the capability to plan out their attacks without Sombra being able to hear them. This was a dangerous and difficult technique, but each of them had trained for many hours to be able to use it to the best of their abilities, and the strict mental discipline of the friend holding the connection made it that much easier.

Perry focused on his task at hand, placing the necklace around the unconscious Fluttershy. She started to glow, her engraved symbol shining as she started to awaken. She took a second before starting to cry and hugging Perry tightly.

"I-I thought you were dead! You were gone, and no one else cared!" she cried and clung to him. He winced slightly, not wanting to bother her with the fact that she was squeezing his injured shoulder.

'Damn, man. You got yourself a fine looking lady right there,' Catacomb said, Perry almost forgetting his thoughts were not private at the moment. 'No no, keep on going. This is like gravy to me.'

'Catacomb, if you even think of feeding off my love, I will beat you so hard your swarm will never recognize you,' Perry responded. He looked back down at Fluttershy, who was still crying into his shirt. "It is going to be alright. I am fine. Flutters. I am more happy to see that you are ok," he hugged her back.

The rest of the girls finally made it, absolutely shocked at what they had seen. The sight of Sombra, pissed off and ready to kill, was enough to bother anyone, but the fact that he was wearing the Alicorn's Amulet, which glowed with a dark energy, made his appearance that much more threatening. Still, they banded around Perry and Fluttershy, Rainbow being the first to notice the blood on Perry

"Oh my gosh! What happened to you?!" she yelled, causing Fluttershy to take a closer look. She almost screamed at the sight of all the blood, noticing the blood on her sleeve as well.

"Don't worry about me. It didn't hit anything vital," Perry stopped talking for a second, getting a missive from Shining. "Twilight, your brother says to hit the Magic field up above with a blast from the elements. It should stop the Nightmare spell."

"Got it!" she said not wasting any time. Fluttershy was reluctant to leave Perry's side, but did so in order to help the group. Sombra was still struggling against the other two, the fight having recommenced. Perry got up and went to help his allies, leaving the task of removing the barrier to the Elements of Harmony. Standing in a circle, the necklaces and Twilight's tiara started to glow brightly. The energy between all of them radiated and grew, cycling between them all, and finally all into Twilight. She sent the combined energy high up into the sky, causing the dark clouds gathered to part, and finally hitting the intended target. Sombra yelled out a dramatic 'NO' as he no longer was absorbing the fear of the town. The members of T.E.S.T. surrounded the evil king, staring down at him victoriously.

"This...this was all so perfect," Sombra said, as the group prepared to strike him down.

"It is over, Sombra. You are done," Perry said to him.

"No...No... NO NO NO!" a surge of dark energy flooded the area sending the three flying backwards onto the ground. The girls all watched as Sombra stood up. "I have absorbed enough fear to be able to take you all down! The fact I don't have to hold that field anymore will be your downfall!" he got up and covered himself in crystal spikes, before sending them out everywhere on the field. They were shot out too quickly for Shining to contain. They only managed to slightly cut up the members of T.E.S.T., but as for everyone else...

Perry heard a scream from the group of girls. Turning his gaze, he looked on in total terror as Rainbow held onto Fluttershy. A small rogue crystal shard was sticking out of her chest, covered in blood. The whole area went silent, everyone staring over at her. Twilight was doing her best to stop the bleeding, but she was crying as well, hardly able to concentrate.

Everything seemed to stop for Perry, his fear that he never knew he had made it's way to the surface, and violently.

"FLUTTERSHY!"

Broken

Chapter 21: Broken

He couldn't move. He wanted to move, but his legs and arms would not react. He couldn't hear the shouting. Inside and outside, the words of his comrades fell on deaf ears. He wanted to scream, to let out the loudest bellow that he could. At the same time, he felt so alone that anything that he could say would have simply echoed into nothing. Eventually, the only thing he could say was the only thing he could really think about.

"FLUTTERSHY!" Perry yelled out at the top of his lungs. Everyone's gaze suddenly shifted from Fluttershy to Perry. He stood slowly, stumbling as he made his way slowly over to the group of girls doing their best to care for their friend. "FLUTTERSHY!" he yelled again, completely gone mentally. Twilight was trying her hardest to stop the bleeding, but the crystal didn't want to be removed, and if she couldn't get it out soon, Fluttershy's chances of survival would drop dramatically. Looking up, Twilight watched Sombra approach Perry from behind.

"Perry, behind you!" she instinctively screamed out. Everyone else still down from that last attack, Sombra swung at Perry. He quickly turned around and decked Sombra with a hard punch. His fist collided with Sombra's face and sent him flying with tremendous force. Even Sombra, who could not react, was stunned at the power in the attack. He went almost one hundred yards, skiding and bouncing across the ground. Everyone stared at the scene unfurling before them.

"Fluttershy...Fluttershy...Fluttershy," Perry just kept saying her name over and over again. Cracks began forming in Perry's mask. "Give...me...back...Fluttershy," Perry said, walking slowly towards Sombra. The mask finally gave way and shattered, shocking everyone with the reveal of his true face. His right eye, usually red and black, was now red with green where the white would show. A faint dark aura radiated from it. From his eyes an almost never-ending flow of tears leaked down, paired with the look of pure rage on his face. Sombra got up slowly and chuckled, wiping the blood away from his mouth and nose.

"Wow. What a pathetic display there. Crying over some simple-" he never got to finish that sentence. Perry didn't hesitate, and within moments, he was planting his heel into Sombra's chest. The speed and impact dented in his armor plating he wore and toppled him over onto the ground.

"Fluttershy...give...her...back," Perry spoke to Sombra.

Shining Armor and Catacomb, knowing better than to interfere now, got up and ran to try and help the girls. "Twilight," Shining Armor said to his sister as she still tried to heal her friend.

"I just can't get it out...I am trying everything...it won't come out," Twilight cried as she still tried to help her friend.

"I feel ya, babe, but we have to leave, like now!" Catacomb said, constantly looking over his shoulder. "We can get her to a hospital while we are at it, but we have to leave."

"We can't leave Perry behind to fight that monster! Why are we just going to run?" Rainbow said angrily, tears still in her eyes as she held her dying friend.

"We have to run because of Perry," Catacomb said looked back towards his team member. "He is dangerous when he is enjoying a fight...but when he is no longer having fun...ladies, I am all for helping him, but I am not suicidal," Shining went to lift Fluttershy up, but was quickly hissed at by Rainbow.

"Don't touch her!" she yelled at the soldier. He stood there, surprised at the display of aggression. "Fluttershy is my best friend. I will carry her," she got up slowly, cradling Fluttershy in her arms gently, using more caution than she has ever used in her entire life. She looked towards Perry, still stunned at his face, but remaining calm, for all of her friends. "Perry! Kill him!" she yelled loudly, forcing herself to remain strong. It was unknown if he heard her or not, but that would still most likely be without a doubt his goal.

"Alright, let's go, and quickly!" Shining said. He started to run, contacting Reader in his mind. 'Reader, have you been able to get back in sync with Perry?'

'Alas, no. Perry's mind has turned into an unstable battlefield, and has all but locked me out. I am still making attempts, but I doubt he would listen even if we were able to contact him. You must save the lass, because a dark power has just awoken in that man. I fear he might lose himself to it soon.' Shining Armor was a stoic man, but the thought of Perry going on a berserk killing spree would be the worst of nightmares.

He thought back to that eye, exactly like Sombra's. Did the two have some sort of connection, or was it just the darkness everyone was capable of.

"Your allies have all left you..." Sombra spoke to Perry as he continued to move towards him. "You're all alone now, so alone," Perry snapped at Sombra, throwing a straight fist. Sombra raised his shield to block Perry's punch, but it did little to no good against him. Perry easily shattered the shield and plowed through into Sombra. Crystal shards stuck out of Perry's now bloody hand, but he did not flinch. Sombra, who was knocked back several more feet, was starting to get furious. "What, no more laughing? I thought this was fun!" he yelled with anger in his voice. "You're not going to defeat me! That woman will die and you will regret not being able to kill me for the rest of your short and pathetic life," Perry wasn't even capable of listening to Sombra in the state he was in. He started to yell with an animalistic cry, charging him.

'...rry....Perry... A voice started to ring in his head, though mixed in with every other voice it was practically lost to the turbulent sea of thoughts. 'Perry, listen. I know you can hear me, Perry. You have to fight the madness.' Perry groaned and shrugged it off, continuing to throw wild punches at Sombra, most of them missing. Sombra was starting to get his bearings together. Perry was powerful and fast, but his rage made him predictable and sloppy. Sombra easily moved away from each punch thrown now, and struck Perry in the chest with a kick.

"You're losing it, aren't you," Sombra said in a mocking tone. "There is nothing you will be able to do. You are an insect compared to-" Sombra was instantly silenced by a flux of gravity around him. He quickly moved out of the way, avoiding being turned into a crater by a sudden increase. Perry continued to launch his gravity crushes at Sombra, who easily avoided them. Perry blindly litter the battlefield with craters in his efforts to destroy the tyrant.

"DIE DIE DIE DIE!!!" Perry couldn't restrain himself. Firing off his gravity crush spell repeatedly, all he managed to do was destroy the land they were fighting on. Sombra watched and laughed at Perry's futile struggle to hit him.

'Perry, listen to me! It's Twilight! A voice rang through Perry's head once again. 'Fluttershy is alive, but she is in bad shape. The crystal in her is made from Sombra's dark will. You need to...' There was a pause in her words. Perry calmed down slightly at the mention of Fluttershy, taking the time to listen, and waiting for Twilight to tell him what he needs to do. ' Perry, you will have to finish off Sombra once and for all...It is the only way.' Even in his thoughts he could still hear her crying. She was so scared. King Sombra took advantage in his lack of action and started to throw more crystals his way. Perry easily moved out of the way, fighting with pure instincts while his mind fought for control.

'Perry, it is Rarity,' another voice started in his head. 'Your nice friend here is letting us use him to talk to you. Please don't lose yourself in this mess. You're a good person, and we would hate for you to lose that quality about yourself. I will say this. Defeat Sombra, for all of us, and for dear Fluttershy...' Sombra watched as Perry started to regain himself. He backed off for a second to make sure it wasn't a trap.

'Sorry we keep on invadin yer head, Perry. I just want to tell ya to kick his sorry ass for me.' This voice belongs to Applejack. Perry began taking deep breaths between his not so subtle sobbing. He was still crying, instinctively fearing the outcome of failure. 'Be strong Perry, we're all countin on ya.'

'Rainbow here...wow this brain thing is cool...what, dude? I am saying...ah never mind. Perry, what I said when I left still stands. But I don't want you to come back all evil and stuff...so yeah, that's about it. ' Perry and Sombra stared down each other now. Sombra was still confused as to what caused Perry to stop so suddenly.

'Perry! Oh my gosh I am in your head! It's Pinkie now! You better come back, I got a huge saving the world party planned, and it wouldn't be the same without you! ' Sombra's patience was at an end, as he charged at Perry, preparing to run him through with his sword.

'P...Perry...' His eyes widened at the sound of that voice. 'P..Plea..se...don't die...I just...want to...see...you...ag...ain. Even if...I can't...promise me...you...will live...' Fluttershy was talking into Perry's mind now. All of his friends, they all wanted to see him again. He turned his gaze towards Sombra and moved to the side quickly, throwing a quick kick towards him, sending him back several feet.

"I...Promise!" Perry said out loud, finally back and recomposed. Sombra got himself back into position quickly, as Perry's eyes were filled with all of his malice and rage. "You...just don't get it..." Perry spoke, tears still moving down his face. "You have no idea... WHAT KIND OF HELL YOU UNLEASHED!" Before, the shear bloodlust from Perry could practically be tasted. Now it was suddenly all gone. It was as if it vanished completely with that last outburst."...Let me ask you a question, Sombra."

"I guess I could humor you this once. Go ahead," Sombra said, almost in a mocking tone. His rage gone, Sombra felt assured that Perry was ready to give up.

"What does a man do when he has nothing to gain and everything to lose?" Perry asked with a strange calm in his voice. His tears finally coming to a stop, his gaze replaced with something even Sombra couldn't identify.

Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie, Rainbow, Applejack, and Fluttershy. They were all waiting for him, waiting for Perry to return. He had gained such valuable friends, and he would never want to do anything that would make them upset. The answer was simple, simpler than it ever could have been. He would win. Sombra looked at him, feeling this calm where the overwhelming bloodlust should be. This was something that Sombra was not familiar with. Before it made him feel as if he had finally secured his victory. Now he felt even closer to defeat than ever. "I will kill you, and there is nothing you will do to stop me."

"What the hell are you going on about? I still outclass you. Don't think you're better because of a few lucky punches," Sombra said to Perry. His face was a stone, almost like a mask in of itself. He showed no fear, no anger, just nothing. Sombra has dealt with a wide variety of foes, but he was nervous. There was no more fear in Perry to feed on. The stare that Perry gave Sombra was eerie. "What are you looking at? QUIT LOOKING AT ME LIKE THAT!" Sombra fired another barrage of crystal shards at Perry. Without even speaking, he formed a gravity well, redirecting the projectiles into the ground.

"You still don't get it, Sombra. You are going to die. Simple as that," Perry stated, moving towards Sombra. He stood there, stunned at the spell that Perry was controlling. Sombra rushed at Perry and tried to stab him with his sword. Perry caught the blade in the well, and managed to break it apart in the core of the dark mass. Letting the well vanish, Perry again began to throw punches at him, not wanting to relent even the slightest. He completely disregarded the amount of pain in both his hand and arm, and just continued to strike at him. "You have no chance to beat me, Sombra!" Perry yelled between each strike. "You have no more future, nothing!" Sombra took a quick step backwards to try and get some distance between him and Perry, but when he stepped back Perry was no where in sight. The next thing Sombra felt was the weight of the world pressing down on him.

"Gravity crush!" Sombra was brought to the ground almost instantly as is body forcibly hugged the earth with tremendous force. Sombra could feel the world around him starting to collapse. He truly was nothing to this man, and there was nothing he could do about it. Sombra has fed of the fear of others for the longest time, but for the first time, he is experiencing it firsthand. This isn't Celestia and Luna sealing him away, this was the brink of death from a foe who would not even think to show mercy.

"I...I can't...I CAN'T DIE!" Sombra yelled. His body started to crystalize, turning into a statue of himself. He slowly got up, withstanding the incredible amount of pressure and turned to Perry, his face still as solid as before. He made his way at Perry, shooting off spikes of crystal from his body. The crystal's simply hitting the ground almost immediately. Sombra was desperate. He tried to move out of the field but he couldn't, as Perry just moved it with him.

"Darkness everlasting. Void where no light is allowed to tread. Lost in time and space, the origin of all and the end of existence," Sombra watched as Perry began to chant, a tiny sphere of dark energy forming within the palm of his hand. Perry was going to finish this once and for all. "Howls and echoes silenced and faces lost to eternal nothingness. Missing amongst the stars, and searching for the creator, I invoke thee, come to my aid and rid thy foe from this plane."

"I WILL NOT DIE!!!" Sombra made one last charge. Turning his arm into a spear, he ran Perry through. Perry coughed up blood from the impact. Instead of stopping, he grabbed the spear with his free hand and held the hand charging the attack in front of Sombra. He gave the tyrant king a subtle bloody smile.

"Black Hole's Desolation," as much as Sombra struggled to free himself, Perry had him locked in place from his own attack. The tiny sphere made it's way slowly towards Sombra as he tried to back away. Between the gravity and his insane foes grip, he couldn't even begin to budge. The tiny sphere, manipulated by Perry's will, entered into Sombra's head through his mouth. "Goodbye," Perry quickly snapped his fingers together twice, causing the dark orb to activate and deactivate within a second. No more, no less. That is how long it was needed to be active for though. The spell did exactly what it was supposed to do.

Sombra's crystalline body started to crumble to the ground and fall apart. Perry winced as he pulled the spear arm out of himself, looking down at the end results of his endeavors. Sombra turned back to normal, but his head was an empty flab of skin and nothing more. He had removed everything up there in that instant the black hole was active, having sucked it into nothingness. Perry knew in his mind a quick and painless death was far to good for him.

Perry looked down at his ancestor and frowned. "I bet even you had the potential for good at one point," he started to cough violently, the impact from earlier taking effect now that the adrenaline wore off. He walked, moving slowly towards the hospital where everyone was. He smiled meekly as he trekked slowly through the battlefield, covering the gushing hole in him the best that he could.

This might be a promise he wouldn't be able to keep, but he continued to struggle as much as he could. He could see his life flashing before his eyes with each step he took.

His aunt and uncle, both of them fairly plain folks, were babysitting the young Perry, about seven. He was always energetic, running around and climbing everything that he could. Wearing a cape, he climbed on top of the stair railing on the second story floor and claimed that he was the prince of the universe. He jumped, thinking the cape would give him the magic power to fly. He was barely caught by a quick reacting uncle, who scolded him for being reckless, but how nervous he was means that it was all because he cared.

Step by step, Perry continued to march forward for the sake of wanting see them again. Memories still flooding his mind.

Perry has just been excepted into a school for gifted magic users due to his affinity with a rare kind of magic. Everyone was there that he knew, though his father was causing trouble yet again. Unable to go out to social events without creating some kind of disaster, he insisted on spiking the drinks at the ceremony with several pills of the unknown variety. Two parents and a child died that day, and Perry was forever marked an outcast, sent to live with his aunt and uncle while his father served hard time.

His father. That blasted man who's actions and violent tendencies still lived with Perry today. Would he have snapped if his father was removed from his life as quickly as his mother? Silly thoughts to think, as the past can not be changed. No matter how much one wished.

The entirety of the playground had been covered in blood. It was everywhere. On the grass, on the equipment, and all over Perry's hands. He had tried to stop that mad man from killing all of them. Just because he was bullied doesn't mean he wanted this. Seeing his fathers lifeless body under him, his knuckles all bloodied up and red along with everything else in the area unleashed something inside him. It made Perry feel good. It was a sweet and satisfactory feeling of accomplishment. At twelve years old, how much time would he get in jail for killing his own father? Were they going to blame him for all of this. Perry didn't want to stay and find out, so he ran. He ran far and he ran fast. He ran through his youth, into the eyes of private parties who had witnessed his potential. They had trained him, hid him, and taught him everything they could, to have the perfect assassin.

Funny how little dying hurts. Perry's legs couldn't drag on anymore, so he decided it was a good time to rest. He sat up against a tree just outside of the town. Was he close to the hospital? It was hard to say, really. Taking a nap seemed really nice to him about now. Perry was definitely tired. He started to close his eyes, taking short notice of a figure moving towards him quickly. It was hard to say who it was. Perry just wanted to rest now.

The Crazy Thing About Endings

Chapter 22: The Crazy Thing About Endings

It was a rainy day in Ponyville. A plain, rainy day. Though rain beget sadness, the people standing in the graveyard remained calm, hiding under the umbrellas. A nice ornate casket was being lowered into the ground, while one of the group had played a slow sad song on a bizarre instrument.

"I... I can't believe that any of this could have happened," a voice had spoken. The speaker, walking towards the casket, just stared slightly, unable to find any words to speak. The group consisting of Twilight and her friends, not including Fluttershy, who was still in the hospital from the battle that occurred almost a week ago. She had managed to pull through, surprising everyone with her tenacity to live. Zecora was found soon after, the crystal prison spell that Sombra used having vanished along with him. She was shaken up, but eventually felt confident enough to go back to her hut.

A man wearing a nice suit, and a blue robed man walked towards the casket, next to Twilight. "I'll tell ya," started Catacomb, the nicely dressed man. "This is too good for that crazy psychopath...though the pink casket is a nice touch."

"It was my idea," Rarity stepped forth. "Bright colors do demand to be seen, and I am sure he would have wanted to be noticed by as many as possible," it was a quiet scene, just the silence that usually followed the speaking of individuals that occurred occasionally.

The battle had an effect on everyone in town. The Spell of Sombra left many of them unsure of their security. Thankfully, word was kept quiet about it being King Sombra's doing in the first place long enough to prevent a panic, and they were led to believe that it was the combined efforts of the Elements of Harmony that defeated him. That is the way T.E.S.T. preferred it though. To silently shape Equestria's future for the better, all from the shadows. The organization will never be the same again after the tireless battle.

"A tragedy that thy battle had to end with such dramatic results," Reader said, approaching the casket alongside Catacomb now. "Come, we are to depart soon. So prepare thyself for the arduous journey back to Canterlot."

"Yeah, I hear ya," Catacomb said. He looked around at the girls around him. "See ya gals around sometime. Nice town ya got here. Kinda a shame that the one area is scrapped, but im sure it will be better soon. Anyways, don't spend too much time here, go home and try to enjoy life," Catacomb started walking away, followed by Reader. They were interesting to be sure. Maybe one day they would be seen again.

"Pinkie, I think you can stop playing now," Rainbow said to the girl playing the bagpipes as the casket was being buried now by the men operating the proceedings. "So, do ya think Perry would be happy with this?" Rainbow asked the group. They all nodded, Applejack taking a step forward and patting her friend on the shoulder.

"Yup. It was the right thing to do. Come on, let's go see how Fluttershy is doin'," Applejack said. They all nodded and made their way back to the hospital. It was still raining.

They arrived, gathering around their friends bedside while visiting hours were going on. She was on a respirator, but her injuries would heal up after some rest. She would most likely be in the hospital for several weeks, but is expected to make a full recovery thanks to the help of some excellent doctors that the T.E.S.T. members had sent in to handle the situation.

Fluttershy's eyes opened slowly, adjusting to the light of the hospital room. She could finally make out the weak images of her friends around her, as they all started to gasp, smiling happily with tears in their eyes. Rainbow had to hold Pinkie back from dive tackling her for a hug, which would most likely be counterproductive to her recovery.

"Fluttershy! You're awake!" Twilight said happily. Fluttershy looked around slowly, as if searching for something. Twilight looked at her friend and looked down. "Perry, right?" Fluttershy nodded slowly, unsure if she wanted the answer to her silent question. Twilight sighed, and walked over to the dividing curtain for the hospital room. She pulled it away, showing an unconscious Perry lying there in the bed. "The doctor's, as good as they are, were not sure if he would pull through. He had lost a lot of blood, but thankfully he didn't get hit where it mattered. Damned lucky too," Twilight decided mentioning the fairly big hole in him would only serve to scare her friend. Fluttershy looked across from her, and could only stare at him, tears starting to well up. The stupid tubes in her kept her from speaking, but if she could she would be begging for Perry to wake up.

"He is an interesting man," Rarity said, looking over at Perry. "He fought hard, and through several injuries, and still managed to defeat that vile man. Oh the thought that we gave him a nice funeral still bothers me," she said, pouting slightly.

"Hard to believe that after all of that, that was what Perry wanted," Applejack started to speak. His one friend was able to get into his head before he lost consciousness, and Perry just wanted a nice funeral...well...for his great grandpa," Fluttershy's eyes widened at the comment, indicating her surprise. "Yeah, kinda makes sense and all, same weird glowy eye thing, but ya can never tell the two were completely different folks," Fluttershy was unconscious through Perry's transformation, not actually having seen it that way. So there was definitely confusion on both parts.

A doctor walked into the room, and looked over at the girls. "Visiting hours are up," he looked the part, white coat, stethoscope, the works. He noticed that Fluttershy had gained consciousness and smiled. "It looks like she finally woke up. Go now, I will have to do an examination on her. They all frowned, having only just arrived there, and already being shooed out. The doc closed the curtain after looking at the unconscious Perry for a few seconds. Asking a few simple yes and no questions, he tested Fluttershy's mental capabilities to make sure her mind hadn't suffered any ill effects from her injury. She functioned perfectly, nodding or shaking her head slightly. The doctor smiled and looked down to her. Alright now, I have to go check the other one over there. The doctor moved to the other side of the curtain, checking several of the vital signs of the patient. Fluttershy watched the silhouette of the doctor work.

Her heart started to jump when she heard the heart monitor start beeping wildly from the other side. She could see the doctor backing off slightly as the body of Perry quickly rose. She could only smile happily when she heard his forceful voice.

"MY MASK! WHERE'S MY MASK?!"

Several minutes of screaming and flailing followed by an unconventional tranquilizer gun, and Perry was back to resting. This was all Fluttershy needed to know everything would be alright.

The days in the hospital were colorful indeed. The doctor wasn't going to let up on the fact that he couldn't wear that thing, as it could impede his breathing, but it wasn't going to prevent Perry from complaining. He was happy to find that he shared a room with Fluttershy though, and even more so that she was doing fine. He took these opportunities to tell her all about him, since there was nothing else to really do to pass the time. Perry attempted to leave out the more nasty bits, trying to only tell what was necessary to convey the point. Fluttershy always showed an appreciation, taking the time to listen. The third day they were both awake, she even began to speak, as the breathing tube was no longer needed. The visits by her father were something to try an hide from as the stares he gave Perry while checking up on his little girl were more menacing than Sombra's, but thankfully the doctor knew enough to tell him that Perry was in fact the one who saved his daughters life.

Speaking of the doctor, it turns out that Perry knew the doctor himself, having been sent to him for injuries from his prior jobs. He was a skilled man in his profession, having worked alongside the secret organization for some time. He was also, eccentric, to say the least, though Perry wasn't the average patient, and needed...less than average care, often consisting of yelling matches behind the closed curtain, and to Fluttershy's general concern, a shot from his tranq gun. All in all, Perry never liked hospital's, and this guy was the real reason.

Following the weeks that have passed, both Perry and Fluttershy had made a full recovery. Deciding that his desire to kill no longer defined him after that fight with Sombra, he sent in his resignation letter from the T.E.S.T squadron to the Princesses. Celestia and Luna took Perry's resignation letter quite well. More or less Luna, who partied harder than a princess who controls a celestial body should. Celestia was slightly concerned at first, but she understood that along the cursed bloodline that belonged to Sombra, Perry was the exception. He had stared down the easy to follow path of evil, and struggled to avoid it. He was offered a chance to rule the world, and instead nearly gave his life to save them all. Possibly the strongest mortal she had ever met, Celestia could only deem Perry to be a hero. She was happy to learn about his desire to stay in Ponyville away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. He had gotten a job working with Pinkie as an assistant party planner, which might as well have been a full time job. He had moved into the little house permanently, using the rest of his vacation and retirement pay to buy the house, and make sure his aunt and uncle could live comfortably for quite some time.

Perry still wore his goofy mask in public always causing the people of the town to gossip and talk. His eye returned to normal, simply a side effect of his inner turmoil. He cared a little less nowadays about the apperance, as he had not only an understanding of his roots and his reasons for the way he was, but he fought the source of his issues, the evil that tainted the minds of all of the Sombra bloodline. His victory over that accursed man was a partial victory over his inner demons, though that fight will still continue regardless. He hasn't really thought of killing anyone, minus the occasional idiotic friend, since the incident. It was an odd feeling to Perry, as he used to love the idea of chaotic bloodshed in the heat of battle. Perhaps he was just bored of it. Kill a millennia old super evil tyrant king with enhanced powers who only grew stronger on fear. You don't get any more exciting than that, so kind of down hill from there.

Waking up has always been difficult, but it made it so much nicer waking up to Fluttershy in his arms. He normally was a late sleeper, but sometimes he tried to wake up early on the days he stayed at Fluttershy's or the other way around. Looking back on all the events in his life, he could only laugh slightly, causing his lover next to him to stir. It was hard to believe he had already been here past the two months he was scheduled for, and wouldn't be leaving. The girl next to him slowly opened her eyes an looked up into his. He smiled his usual smile and gently kissed her on the forehead.

"Good morning, Flutters," Perry said. She blushed and nodded, smiling back as she bashfully cuddled against him for his warmth. "Did you have fun last night?"

"...Yes, it was definitely something new, I had no idea your body could bend that way," Fluttershy said, a huge blush on her face.

"Well, year of practice and training had to amount to something fun right. Especially since your friends joined in on it too," he chuckled, remembering the events that occurred.

"I was no good, though..." she said, disappointedly. Perry gently kissed her lips and smiled.

"You were fine, Flutters. The point is everyone had a good time. I mean, it's not often I get a chance to play twister. No one I know will play with me anymore," he sighed.

"Well...to be fair, the part where you dislocated your arm kind of scared me a little, but it was a fun party. Your second month here. It is hard to believe that you decided to stay for us," Fluttershy said, smiling happily.

"Well, for you, mainly...but it was time I settled down anyways. To much excitement for one man, and I'm sure things won't be that crazy around here anyways. Well, crazier than I could handle," he said with a quick laugh.

"...umm, I wouldn't be too sure. I don't understand what it is, but trouble always seems to find this town It can be scary sometimes," she said, causing Perry to laugh more.

"I doubt it can be that scary, after everything I have seen. There is no way it can get any scarier than I am used to," she looked at him and giggled. "Besides, nothing could be crazier than you last night..." he grinned towards her, as she blushed slightly, remembering the details of the night that followed the party. Having a few too many hard ciders at the request of Rainbow Dash, she proceeded to pull Perry into her own little after party. It was amazing, it was crazy, it was one of the most fantastic nights of Perry's life. He had no idea she was such an excellent prankster, though Rainbow had to have rubbed off her somewhere along the line, being good friends for the time that they had known each other. Perry was thankful for all of his new friends, and for the woman in his arms.

"By the way," Perry said to Fluttershy as they gazed at each other. "You're also excellent in bed," he grinned causing her to turn several different shades of red.

Perry knew this was definitely the beginning of a new, wonderful life for him. Sure, it had the occasional cog thrown into it, but with Perry, despite being retired, and his friends being the designated repairmen of Equestria, it was simply a minor inconvenience. It is amazing that when dealt a wild card, you can never be to sure of what it could become until all the other cards are dealt.

Holiday Special: To Play the Hands We Are Dealt

Author's Note

I know that I have marked this story complete, but something like this fits here better than in Fifty-Three Pickup.

A simple Hearths Warming Eve tale from a man who is anything but simple. I hope you all enjoy, and I wish you all the best of luck in having a happy holiday.

Holiday Special: To Play the Hands We Are Dealt

To Play the Hands We Are Dealt

Snow. Pure, clean, and refreshing to the touch. A subtle serenity came from staring into the sky and watching the small flakes fall. Even though it was cold. Even with the wind blowing, he was happy to look up into the sky, to watch as the flakes landed harmlessly on his mask. It was hard to remember how much time he had actually spent out in this weather, or why he felt the need to in the first place. It was just something that happened, especially around this time of the year.

“Perry, would you like to come in?” Fluttershy asked, peeking her head out the door, watching him from the warmth of her cottage. Every day was different with him, something new, exciting. This time, on the most festive of times, he was silent. Where others were excited about the season, he was the calm one. He wasn’t sad, but he wasn’t the same. “Perry, you are going to catch a cold. Please come in,” Fluttershy softly demanded. She let out a small ‘eep’, blushing slightly as if she did something wrong. “If that is okay with you…”

“No need to apologize. Just a few more minutes,” Perry requested, never removing his gaze from the sky. Fluttershy, though not wearing much more than him, slowly walked outside, trying to ignore the cold temperature. She walked up behind him, wrapping her arms around him and holding him tightly. She shivered, his entire body was cold to the touch. Yet, even in his icy state, he didn’t shake in the slightest.

“How long have you been out here?” he asked, surprised about the cold herself.

“Did you ever notice how unique each snowflake is? I know they are made that way on purpose, but it is still such a beautiful thing,” Perry’s response was different than what Fluttershy was expecting, but she silently nodded, finding no real reason to disagree with that statement. “Just like every living thing in the world. Even though there are similarities, no living thing is ever truly the same as one another.”

“Perry, we should probably head inside,” Fluttershy said, trying to keep her tone stern. She wasn’t about to let the most important man in her world freeze to death. “No arguing, or no cocoa,” Fluttershy threatened, crossing her arms over her chest. Perry remained quiet for a few seconds, Fluttershy starting to get nervous. “Okay…maybe a sip…” he couldn’t stand seeing him like this, but a laugh allowed her to breathe just a bit easier.

“I can’t possibly refuse you when you act cute.”

It was hard to say if she blushed, or if it was the cold weather tinting her cheeks red. Fluttershy meekly smiled at the sentiment. Perry finally stopped his sky gazing, wiping away the layer of snow that accumulated on his mask. Turning around, they walked hand in hand back into the cottage, where the warmth took away the bitter chill on their skins. Taking a seat, Perry quietly waited for Fluttershy, who returned after a few minutes in the kitchen with two mugs of cocoa. Perry looked into the cup, taking in the sweet aroma that wafted from within, bringing with it a simple memory of his happier days.

“Thank you for spending tonight with me,” Fluttershy said quietly after some silence. “I know you are not all that excited, but-“

“None of that, Flutters,” Perry quickly interrupted her the moment he heard the sadness in her voice. “I am happy to be here. I swear it,” Perry noticed her gaze, inquisitive yet soft. He sighed, putting his cup down on the table. “Would you like to hear a story?” Perry asked reaching up to his face, releasing the mask placed on it with a quick tug, looking down at the smile. It was always something that granted him comfort, even after so many years of darkness and insanity that had plagued his youth. He turned his gaze from the mask to Fluttershy. She smiled comfortingly at him, gently patting his leg. “I started to wear masks twelve years ago today, but I should elaborate. It started after my father was placed under arrest a little over a year before.”

Within the simple, yet cozy apartment, it was anything but so. A young child stared out onto the streets of Canterlot. He silently watched the snow fall, completely unresponsive to the conflict going on behind him, his lifeless eyes just watching, avoiding the entire argument that his uncle was having with the man in the suit that came around occasionally. He didn’t like him very much, always trying to become friends with him, offer him candy or toys on occasion. He didn’t know him, why should he have to speak to him?

“I know you are trying, Mr. Quinn, but he hasn’t shown signs of progress for over a year,” the suited man tried to hold back his voice, but it was obvious that he was still upset.

“Will you remove your head from your rear for just a second and use it?! He doesn’t have anyone left in this world!” his uncle Harley responded, no lack of restraint in his emotion.

He ran his hands through his short, dark hair in frustration. It wasn’t uncommon for the two to fight, but it didn’t really matter, it always ended the same. Uncle Harley would walk into his room after he left, while Aunt Columbina would try and get him to speak to her. All and all, even a holiday was just another day. No real reason to care.

“Listen, I don’t have many other options here, as he is clearly in need of help you two are unable to give him. It isn’t about what you want! Think about Perry,” Uncle Harley seemed to really lose his temper here, grabbing the man by the collar and bringing him face to face with him.

“You listen and you listen good! I don’t care what you or your superiors think! He is all I have left of her, and I refuse to let you take him away from us. You didn’t seem to care when he lived with that psycho!”

“Harley!” his aunt yelled, trying to hold back her opinions as well.

She remained seated, wearing a simple white dress, her brown hair put up into a bun. Her white wings could be seen folded against her back, resembling the snow falling outside. Perry always found it odd how she dressed so plain, yet Uncle Harley was always so bright and colorful. He admired the red and black diamond pattern he always wore, though lately it seemed less and less important. He never understood why she got upset when he said bad things about his dad. His father never cared about what people thought of him, so why should he?

“Sorry, dear,” Harley said, taking a deep breath and setting the disgruntled man down. He frowned, dusting himself off.

“I am not heartless, but once the holidays are over, I will be coming back with an official order. I am sorry, but it is in the best interest of the boy,” Harley was barely restraining himself, Columbina walking behind him and hugging him tightly to calm him down. “Have a happy hearths warming eve.”

With that, he opened the door and walked out, leaving the room completely silent. Harley quietly left the room, and forcefully shut their bedroom door. Another repeating cycle that ended in pointless bickering. Columbina and Perry both seemed to ignore the muffled screams that usually resulted from this kind of visit, and instead she walked over to him and took a seat by him, staring out the window as well. She remained quiet, though. Instead of speaking like normal, she elected to join him in the quiet pastime he had been embracing for several months. Perry didn’t necessarily mind the quiet, but found it hard to enjoy every time his gaze caught the teary reflection of the woman behind him. He sighed, no longer able to enjoy watching the snowflakes.

“What was mom like?” Perry asked quietly. He had heard it many times before, but his mind came to the conclusion that she wouldn’t leave unless he finally gave in and talked a little. It was like every time before, but this time he did it without being asked. She smiled gently, collecting her thoughts, before placing her hand comfortingly on his head.

“Corallina was always so sweet,” his Aunt started. “Even when she was small, she had the strong belief that everyone deserved kindness, no matter who they were. It wasn’t a surprise when she got her cutie mark, a simple white heart, but perfect for her. It was this strong believe that brought her to your father, actually. The troublemaker kind of person, always rowdy and rebellious. She must have seen something in him, because she gave him all the chances in the world, even though he was a handful at times. I always told her, ‘Lina, you can find someone better.’ She would just smile and shake her head. ‘The strongest hearts are those made under pressure, like beautiful gems,” Perry had heard this story, and knew where it was going, but remained silent anyways. “Against all odds, she succeeded, and managed to break through that stone heart of his, even if it was only for a short amount of time,” she could never get through this part, knowing that her story ended where his began. He never felt remorse, though. How could he? It didn’t make sense to be sad for someone who you never knew.

“He broke,” Perry’s cold gaze in the window managed to catch the reflection of his uncle, standing behind them. “You are old enough to know the rest of the story,” Uncle Harley sighed, pulling up a chair on the other side of the young Perry. “When your mother passed, all of her effort in making him a better man passed with her. He fell apart, slowly but surely. He became delusional, and lost. Don’t think for a second he didn’t treasure you, though. He always spoke of how you would be the savior one day," his uncle smiled, a small chuckle leaving his lips. “He held you in high regards, even to this day.”

Perry sat quietly, taking this all in. It was hard to say he didn’t care about his father, having put forth effort in making sure he was happy, even though he was the reason he lost his wife. It wouldn’t be odd for a person to be bitter and hateful about that, even Perry knew. “Savior…” Perry mumbled that word, picking it apart in his head, trying to make heads and tails about it. “Ranting’s of a mad man.”

“Maybe, but we would be mad as well if we didn’t believe in you like he did. You can bring happiness to everyone if you try,” Columbina said with a smile. He turned towards her, staring her down, his right eye’s red almost glowing.

“What comes from believing in happiness, anyways?” Perry asked, a straight question waiting for a straight answer.

“You did,” a small response, but the words need not be any more numerous for their effect. Perry’s scowl turned to a frown. He always hated how nice she was, even in times like these. Still, it was hard to not be effected by the warmth in her smile, as well as the comforting and understanding look given to him by his uncle. It wouldn’t kill him to try and be more cheerful, if just for today. He swallowed his shallow sadness and inched up a smile, wrapping his arms around his aunt and giving her a hug.

“I know I have been trouble for you, but I am grateful, and…I love you both,” Perry tried his hardest to mean what he said. He knew deep down he could, but every day it became so much harder for him.

“I love you too, Perry,” she returned the hug, grateful for even this small hint of emotion. “I think we should give him his present early. What do you think, Harley?” the man smiled and got up walking back into his room, coming back with a red wrapped box with a lime green bow.

Perry looked at it, not really sure what to do. He had received presents before, but never wrapped. He carefully undid the bow, removing the ribbon. Carefully removing the wrapping paper as to not ruin it, he opened the lid on the inside. Staring at the inside of the box, Perry slowly removed the contents. He looked at his present, a white ceramic mask, white with a light blue mouth, and its eyes resembling plus signs. It looked exactly like the one on his uncle’s old performance flyers, though this time not placed on him. He turned it around in his hand, looking at the inside of it. Even though there were no strings to hold it in place, no padding, it looked comfortable. He slowly placed it on his face, surprised to find it stick to it easily, not moving of its own accord.

“I thought you might like it. An item from back in my days as a performer. It is enchanted to be able to stay on your face without any straps to hold it in place," Perry stared out the eyeholes, viewing the world from a new perspective. It was easy enough to see out of, yet completely clear, like he was staring through the window the entire time. “It might make it easier for you to go outside. What do you say, will you join me and your aunt for dinner tonight?”

“Leave…” it wasn’t something he was fond of doing, his off eye always drawing attention. He couldn’t say he cared, but the insults and comments did get to him. It got to his dad as well, who even went as far as to make who he called the non-believers suffer. “It would be easier, to not be seen,” Perry said, turning his now masked gaze towards his aunt and uncle. “Maybe, but I am willing to give it a try,” both Harley and Columbina quickly shot a large smile.

Inside, they were completely thrilled, being the first time since he has arrived that he agreed to leave, with little effort as well. They quickly scrambled to put on more cold resistant outfits, as well as dusting off the coat Perry neglected. They handed it to him, and were filled with joy as he put it on voluntarily. He even got up and put his shoes on, waiting by the door.

Together, the family left the apartment building and made their way into the busy streets of Canterlot, Perry feeling the cold air for the first time. He looked up, staring into the sky, and watching the flakes of snow land on his mask, just like watching from the window. Both Harley and Columbina waited patiently for him, not wanting to ruin it by rushing him along. He didn’t know how much time had passed, staring into the snowy sky, watching the snowflakes land, but behind the mask, he smiled slightly. Even though he knew better, for this one small moment, he felt a childlike sense of wonder that he thought had all but vanished.

“The social worker who always stopped by was dumbfounded when he came back after and saw me playing in the snow, wearing this of course. It was my safety net. I began to open up, telling all kinds of stories to the neighborhood kids about why I wore it. Of course there was some ridicule, but it was about something that I had the power to change instead, so it definitely hurt less. Soon, it became impossible to separate me from it. Too much of a good thing and all."

“Let’s visit them tomorrow,” Fluttershy said, smiling warmly as she held his hand. “I wanted to meet them for some time, actually. I need to thank them for making you the wonderful man you are today,” her smile was soft and completely sincere. Perry found it hard to not blush. He nodded, staring down at the mask.

“You mind if I step out for one more moment?” Fluttershy nodded. Perry, taking a few seconds of deep thought, slowly handed her his mask. His eyes held a fear, something that Fluttershy could relate to, yet even then she admired how he stood, literally this time, against it. He made his way towards the door, and opened it slowly, walking outside once again into the snow. He looked up into the sky, this time unmasked, and smiled as the cold flakes of ice melted against his face. Fluttershy watched, smiling from the frame of the door, as Perry threw away all fright that night to savor a simple childlike wonder. “Fluttershy?”

“Yes, Perry?” she responded politely, waiting for what he had to say.

“Happy Hearths Warming Eve, my love,” the snow continued to melt on his face, making it hard to tell if the streaks of water flowing down his cheeks were from the flakes.

The Crazy Thing About Vacations

Chapter 1: The Crazy Thing About Vacations

"The wind blows from across the beautiful and lush green landscapes, the sun's early light only adding to the radiance. I watch the city, full of hustle and bustle with folks walking around enjoying the wondrous break of day, and yet I am sad," the voice came from an odd sort of man, talking only to himself while he looked out from a balcony on the beautiful castle. To those that knew this man well, it generally came as no surprise. Taking in a deep breath, he began to speak once more.

"Why oh why does the princesses believe that I, Perry O'te, need to take some time off? I am full of life, energy, and vigor. One such as me does not need rest!" he exclaimed loudly to what one would assume was absolutely no one.

Though some may have believed that he was simply speaking to the wind, he knew that another would be able to hear him loud and clear. Perry looked upwards, a head poking itself down from the balcony above. This person's head donned a shining gold crown, a symbol of her strength and power, over her long flowing multicolored hair. This icon of power also had a beautiful face, though it currently showed a combination of concern and frustration.

"Perry, I honestly haven't the slightest why you pretend that no one can hear you every time you decide to monologue, at five in the morning, when there are still some trying to sleep," she spoke, a hint of annoyance in her voice. "Seriously, you need some time away to relax, and enjoy yourself."

Her next action would have been deemed crazy, possibly suicidal had she not had large white wings to keep her afloat as she jumped off the upper balcony towards him. She wore a regal dress made for both looks and comfort, shimmering with a mixture of pale yet noticeable colors over a soft white, flowing well past her legs. Perry backed himself up giving her room to land, as he was definitely no stranger to this woman.

"Princess Celestia, pardon me for interrupting...umm... whatever it is you may be doing," he said as he gave a polite bow, his mask's odd grin and black plus sign shaped eye holes hiding whatever expression he may have had.

Perry was, for lack of a better term, eccentric to say the least. He wore a long sleeved shirt, donning diamond patterns with alternating colors of green, red, and white. Its look would be quite straining to the eyes of some, but in his line of work, being an eyesore helped to draw attention to himself. A light beige colored pair of pants made of a nice stern material gave him function and style, at least what he considered style, drawing out more odd contrast between his shirt. His boots brown and thick, though well worn, gave the appearance of constant use, yet no neglect.

The oddest thing about him was that mask concealing his face. It hid his entire image behind its white ceramic, a special glass for eyes gave him the ability to see others without his eyes being able to be seen by others. Their shape, the plus sign, held that glass in quite nicely and was made not to disrupt his field of vision. The only other feature of the mask was a light blue smile simply painted across the mask where a mouth would be, simple to the point where it would look like one line, yet still gently done without haste as to make it look sloppy. A close look would reveal tiny pinprick holes across the smile, making it easier to breath and be heard, but from a distance one would never notice.

"You didn't interrupt anything, Perry. It was just...annoying, that's all," she answered softly. He took that as a cue to become more relaxed with her. Leaning on the entrance of his balcony knowing it would open inward, he fell backwards. As he landed onto the floor, he used his momentum to do a backwards roll and got right back up to his feet.

"It would be impolite to not invite you in, my princess," he spoke in his usual quirky tone, brushing his brown hair away from his mask. She let out a slight giggle at his action before entering.

"You always had such a simple way to make my day better. Oh how we are going to miss you here. But trust me this will be a great thing for you. You spend too much of your time cooped up here, so this will be good. Trust me," Celestia said softly to him.

She had just the place as well. Ponyville, recommended by her and her sister due to its calm and friendly atmosphere, would be the perfect place to get away from it all. He already had his things sent over there but he still knew he would miss his job here at the castle.

"Still, my princess-" he started to speak, but was interrupted by the one he was speaking to.

"Please, Perry, Celestia is fine. We have known each other some time now so you don't have to be so formal, besides it doesn't suit you," she said to him reassuringly.

"Alright then. Still, Tia," Perry chuckled, casually taking a seat and propping his legs up on the table. Being completely informal now served its purpose, causing Celestia to giggle at his sudden change and attitude. "The whole two month thing doesn't seem necessary to me. Why not a week or a day or an hour! Yes! An hour sounds good. What do you say, Tia?" he asked, partially joking, partially serious.

"You know better than that, Perry. Besides, with the things you have done you definitely deserve this, so don't be modest. I'm sure after an hour," she gave a slight emphasis on the hour with a grin, "you will come to enjoy it too much to wish to leave."

Perry knew she was challenging him. Who was he to ignore such an innocent request. His mask hiding his sly smile, Perry leaned back into the chair and rested his arms behind his head.

"I accept your challenge," he said calmly, hiding his intent. "Try as you might, I will not enjoy my first hour there. And when I don't, I shall take the next train back here. But if I do, then I will submit to your whim and stay there for the full two months, never to complain to you about it again. Do you agree to said terms and conditions outlined in this verbal contract between us willing parties?" Perry's mask hid his intent well, Celestia none the wiser that she was falling right into his trap.

As much as Celestia knew that this vacation was necessary, the mischievous side of her couldn't help but take control of her reasoning. Normally she wouldn't do something like this, but the way he acted, his declaration, and how she would deal with it made the probable outcome so much more enjoyable. "I, Princess Celestia, Sun Goddess of Equestria, agree to your terms and conditions. But," she started speaking as he was just a minute ago, "on one condition. You must actually try to have a good time. If I hear that you spent the entire time at the train station," she gave a scary smile towards the court jester, one that those who decided to cross Celestia knew all too well, "you will have wished you stayed there," she smiled sweetly and casually walked back outside, knowing for sure that behind that mask of his, he was sweating bullets. "He may hide his face but he can be easy to read sometimes," Celestia thought to herself.

"O-Of course, my princess! I wasn't even thinking of it!" Perry spoke quickly, poorly hiding the fact that he was planning exactly that. "Well my train shall be arriving soon so I must be leaving now!" he said to Celestia, packing last minute belongings in a hurry as she started to fly back to her balcony.

"Take care, Perry and I hope to not see you soon," she spoke back jokingly. He gave the Princess a slight nod before heading out of his room, making his way to the train station.

The Sun Princess entered her room from her balcony, and headed over to her desk, decorated by many devices. Most, one would guess, meant to relieve boredom. She pulled back one of five metal beads on a device labeled Starswirls Cradle and let it go, the bead hitting the others and sending the one at the opposite end away from it. She smiled at it, remembering it as a present her favorite student gave to her for a Summer Sun Celebration, the one before she moved to Ponyville herself. Watching the metallic spheres go back and forth, she began to think about Twilight, the one who gave her the simple yet amusing toy, and the possible disaster she was regrettably sending her way. A look of concern grew on her face as she continued with her plan. She took up a quill and piece of parchment, dipping the quill into the ink bottle and starting what was to be a letter that would start a very interesting tale.

"Dear Twilight Sparkle..."

The Crazy Thing About Evenings

Chapter 13: The Crazy Thing About Evenings

Fluttershy paced around her house nervously. Angel, agitated by her current behavior, followed her around trying to calm her down, mainly so she can feed him. "Oh Angel, I don't know what to do. What if I make a mistake and he doesn't want to spend time with me anymore?" she asked the rabbit. Angel simply raised an eyebrow. He jumped up and poked Fluttershy where her heart is. "You're right Angel! As long as I listen to my heart, I should be fine," Fluttershy said as she ran upstairs. Little did she know that he meant to go for the stomach. She quickly ran back downstairs and looked at Angel. "I am sorry, Angel. I almost forgot to feed you!" Fluttershy apologized as she went into the kitchen, making a salad. "I am just so nervous. It is just so hard to explain. You understand?" Angel just stared for a second and shook his head.

She finished the salad and set it down. It didn't take long for Angel to go at it with a hungry vengeance. Fluttershy walked out of the kitchen and back upstairs to get herself put together. She wanted to try and impress Perry, but she has never really felt the need to do so before, so she didn't know what to really do. She would have called Rarity, but odds are that she was busy with him, and so she had to rely on the one other person who knew how to impress people, Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow was napping on a cloud as it floated over Ponyville. Her day had been relatively peaceful, with the exception of a floating Pinkie with more balloons than what was logical strapped to her back, but logic was never Rainbow's strong suit. She liked to go with the flow, and that's why she couldn't help but grumble when she heard Fluttershy calling her name from a distance. She sighed and opened her eyes, only to be greeted face to face by said Fluttershy. "Holy crap!" she yelled and jumped, causing Fluttershy to jump back as well, almost falling off the cloud.

"I am sorry for waking you," Fluttershy said softly, looking at a slightly groggy and infuriated Rainbow. "I... need your help," she looked away and blushed slightly. Rainbow looked at her. If Fluttershy was willing to fly up to her it had to be big.

"What's up, Fluttershy?" she asked, a bit concerned.

"Ummm... how do I put this... I umm... I need advise!" Fluttershy finally yelled out before looking away.

"Advise on what? I will do what I can but I bet you're better off asking egghead down there," she pointed to the library where Twilight lived. Fluttershy shook her head.

"I need advise... on...impressing a man," she said quietly, blushing as she looked at Rainbow with pleading eyes.

"No way! You like someone? Who is it?" Rainbow asked. Fluttershy's face reddened even more as she looked at her friend.

"..." even though Rainbow had grown accustom to Fluttershy's quietness, even she couldn't hear that. "He's bringing me... to the party tonight," she said afterwards. Rainbow figured she would never get Fluttershy to say it loud enough for anything to hear, so she decided to wait until tonight to properly judge this man who had captured Fluttershy's heart.

"So you want...my advice to impress him?" Fluttershy nodded, looking at Rainbow. "Well, from my experience, guys want you to take total control of the situation. Make sure you never stop saying how awesome you are to them. Also remember that guys like you to get all close to them. Try whispering naughty things into his ear. I bet that will get him all hyped up."

"Rainbow...are you sure that works?" Fluttershy asked, slightly confused on this advice.

"Fluttershy, I would never steer you wrong. I have had more guys flock to me like that than I can count! You may not know it, but I have had at least twenty different relationships, easily making me a pro! Never lasted more than a week, but I am sure it was because I was too awesome for them," Rainbow boasted to Fluttershy.

"Umm but isn't that a bad thing that they were so short?" Fluttershy asked. Rainbow merely chuckled at the comment.

"No, that just means that I have that much more experience in the subject than you. Trust me, Flutters. Follow this advice and the night will be a total success. I guarantee it!" Rainbow said confidently.

"Ok, Rainbow. I trust you. What do I do first?" Fluttershy asked her, getting ready to try and remember all the lessons.

"All right Fluttershy, lesson one..."

"It is almost time!" Perry said to himself as he walked to Fluttershy's house. The sun was low, but its light could still be seen. It made the evening all the better. He was wearing the nice suit that Rarity gave him, as well as the new mask. He loved the design of it, but preferred his still. He truly believed Rarity was the crazy one, thinking his mask was ugly and creepy.

Perry looked like he was ready to conquer the world, and he sure felt like it too. He stood in front of her door, staring at it. Even now this door was an obstacle to be reckoned with, still so hard to pass through. It was a two by seven obstacle with at least two inches of Perry proof thickness. Perhaps he should ask Fluttershy to take the door down one day, but that would be bad in the winter. Still a thought to think about.

Knocking on the door, he waited.

Fluttershy jumped when she heard the knock at her door. She was all ready, wearing a simple but nice green dress, with a matching colored jacket to hide her wings. It wasn't anything revealing, just the way she liked it. "Okay, Fluttershy, you can do this. Just remember everything Rainbow taught you," she told herself. She walked over to the door, trying to remember lesson one.

Introductions are everything, you gotta greet him in a way that will make sure he remembers who you are, while maintaining a strong look. Try saying this to him when he arrives to pick you up. It's sure to leave a lasting impression.

She opened the door, looking at Perry in his new outfit, standing there casually. She almost froze at the sight of him, but remembered her lessons. "What's up, dude?" she casually said to him. Perry tilted his head to the side slightly, confused at what brought that on. He wasn't sure if she was so nervous that she flipped, or if she was trying to be funny.

"Nice...to see you, too. Your dress is quite lovely," Perry said after a few seconds. He could tell from her eyes she was nervous, but was still curious on what brought that about.

"Of course it is, I made it myself!" Fluttershy said back, prompting more baffled stares from behind the mask.

Lesson two. Whenever given the chance, talk about your achievements. Guys love to listen to how awesome their girls are.

"Well... you did a remarkable job on it," Perry said to Fluttershy. "Anyways, we should get going," Fluttershy nodded and walked out, not waiting for Perry to follow. He sighed as he walked behind her. 'What happened to my Fluttershy,' he silently thought to himself.

While walking, Fluttershy was telling Perry of all that she has done with and for animals, including all the times she has helped them. Perry listened, but never had a chance to really add his comments, as Fluttershy constantly interrupted him. It didn't help that Fluttershy couldn't tell what his facial reactions were, and how much he was not enjoying the attitude she was giving. All that she knew is that he was there and attentive.

"Fluttershy...?" he tried to speak again, but was interrupted.

"Almost done. I still have to tell you about how I singlehandedly forced a dragon to move out of the surrounding mountains," she said to him. He finally deciding to stop moving.

"Fluttershy, listen!" he yelled up, causing her to flinch at the volume of his voice. He looked at her and sighed. "I don't know what is going on...but this doesn't feel right," he said to her. She tried to remember what to do in case of an emergency.

Lesson 23.5. If he seems disinterested, here's what you do. Get up close and whisper this into his ear. It is bound to work on any guy who is a real man.

She decided that it was now or never. She leaned in close and started to whisper into his ear. He stood there and just stared at her, completely shocked at what she had said. Fluttershy looked at Perry backing away slightly, starting to get nervous at his lack of reaction.

"Fluttershy?" he started to speak to her sternly. She looked at him, nervous that she might have messed up. He sighed and then, to Fluttershy's surprise, chuckled slightly. "Did you go to Rainbow Dash for dating advice?" she looked shocked at what he had said, verifying his question.

"How...how did you know?" she asked, blushing with embarrassment at being caught.

"Out of all of the people I have met in Ponyville, she is the only person I could see saying that," Perry laughed. "You're being silly Fluttershy, I like you for how you are. You don't need to try and impress me, because you have already succeeded. All of this so far is kinda silly," she turned even redder and looked down, though smiling.

"I am sorry. I just didn't want to make any mistakes. I thought that Rainbow's advice was...well...bad. I really am sorry," Fluttershy said to Perry. He gently hugged her.

"It is fine, Flutters. Apology accepted," Perry said to her. "Now how about we enter in all close and surprise everyone," he broke off the hug, but moved to her side and wrapped his arm around her, causing her to jump. Perry smiled at her reaction, while she slowly wrapped her arms around him.

The door to Sugarcube corner was right there with people entering already for the party. They made there way in as a couple. A slightly overdressed couple, but Perry always did like drawing attention to himself, and today he wanted it. "Are you ready for this?" he asked Fluttershy. She nodded to him and smiled. They walked to the door together and entered Sugarcube Corner.

The party was already in full swing. People were dancing, eating and talking with each other. The snack table was filled with all kinds of party favors, including that delicious cake Perry requested.

Perry and Fluttershy walked in, Fluttershy blushing as she noticed all of her friends watching as they walked in arms wrapped around each other. Most of them smiled, except for Rainbow. Perry looked over to her and gave a kind of creepy chuckle as he thought about what was going threw her head. "Hey Rainbow, I need to have a talk with you about some... interesting advise you gave my Fluttershy here," Fluttershy hid her face, but smiled at the comment. Rainbow, on the other hand, started to look scared.

"Oh...crap..." Rainbow said, Perry and Fluttershy casually walking up to her. She started to look nervous, wondering what could have gone wrong with her advise. Had it been any other guy, she figured her advice was fool proof, but she wasn't sure when it came to Perry. He was too 'different' for it to work on him. He casually snickered as they were now face to mask with each other, she letting out a nervous laugh of her own.

"It's ok, Rainbow. I am not mad, as you were trying to help your friend. But seriously...'I want you to fill me up with your twelve inch hoagie'..." he looked at Fluttershy. "Did you even know what that meant?" she looked at him confused slightly.

"I figured it meant that you would be willing to make me a nice sandwich," Fluttershy said all sweetly and innocently. Perry laughed at the way she answered, the naivety and sweetness making her seem even more adorable than before.

"Umm sure. Let's go with that answer," Perry said, slightly embarrassed. He then proceeded to look at Rainbow. "I am sure that advice would work on males of the mindless variety, so don't feel bad. You can like whoever you want to, so no harm no foul, right Rainbow?" he said to her, getting awfully close to her face. The new mask design didn't help the creepiness factor of his gaze.

"Right...no harm...I am...going to go eat food now...later!"

With that, Rainbow made her way out of the awkward situation and into the snack bar. Her spot was soon replaced with the rest of the girls, all asking questions at the same time. It was impossible for Perry to try and figure out what they were saying.

"Calm down! One at a time, please. It is hard enough to hear with the music playing," Perry said loudly. Getting them to calm down so he could have a chance of understanding them. "Rarity, you first. I at least owe you that for the wonderful job," he said to the group. They may have all went quiet, but they were still fidgeting like a group of giddy school girls at a juicy rumor.

"So, Fluttershy is the special girl who has captured your heart as you were telling me?" Rarity asked.

"Yes, and again, thank you for the suit and mask, it does indeed go well with her. Now she doesn't have to be embarrassed to be seen with me," Perry said laughing. Unlike him, Fluttershy felt a bit nervous with all the questions and being crowded. She stayed quite, hiding meekly behind his arm. "Ok, Twilight, you're next."

"Why?" she asked pretty plainly to Fluttershy. She was happy for her friend of course, but still kind of confused. "What do you possibly see in him that makes you want to go out with him?" Perry frowned under his mask, wanting to call Twilight out on being mean to him, but not wanting another of her bolts to the face.

"Well, I guess...umm," Fluttershy was trying to speak, though she was still embarrassed, trying to hide herself behind Perry slightly. "He is just...him. I don't think there is anything else to it," it was Perry's turn to blush, though his was hidden behind the mask. He loved how those things hid his expressions when he didn't feel like showing them to others.

"Applejack, I haven't seen you in some time, why don't you go next," Perry said to her. She simply walked up to him and looked him in the eyeholes.

"You're not trying to play Fluttershy here, are ya? Cause if ya are, you're going to be in a world of hurt. I mean a huge world of hurt, Apple family style," she cracked her knuckles to intimidate Perry. He knew she was only protecting her friend, so he couldn't be upset. Still, Perry needed to stand his ground with Applejack to get his point across.

"Applejack, I understand your desire to protect your friend. Actions do speak louder than words, however," Perry cracked his knuckles as well, eliciting a gasp from the girls, especially Fluttershy. "If you think you can keep me from her, try as you might. I will take anything you can throw at me. Apple family style or not, if you're going to make those kinds of accusations towards me, be prepared," he finished as he stood face to face with her.

"Perry, please don't fight with her," Fluttershy asked. Applejack looked towards her friend and smiled.

"Don't ya'll worry yourselves. Any man who's willing to truss with me like this is more than good in my eyes," she said to all of them. Fluttershy sighed in relief, as well as the rest of them, including Perry.

"That's good to hear," Perry gasped, more thrilled than anyone else. "Ok, Pinkie, we shall close the questioning with you, as I am sure that the cake over there isn't going to eat itself," Perry said, eyeing the cake like a beast to it's prey.

"Okie dokie! I wanna know if I could plan your wedding!" she said excitedly. Of course fate would have it that Perry decided at the perfect time to swallow that little bit of saliva that built up from staring. The shock of such a question sent it down the wrong path, leading to a slight coughing fit.

"Umm I have to go wash out my mask now... Be back in a second ladies," he quickly headed to the bathroom, leaving the poor Fluttershy there to answer the question given.

She was blushing heavily, just staring at the girls, not knowing what to say. She decided to avoid the question, so she went with the best excuse she could think of while under the pressure.

"I have to go wash my mask out as well, be right back!" she said quickly as she went to the ladies room. All the girls were laughing except for Pinkie. She just stared at the group.

"So did you all know that Fluttershy wore a mask? Was I the only one?" she said to the girls, who only proceeded to laugh harder.

The wedding question long into the past, a good thirty minutes to be exact. Everyone was enjoying their time together. Having a few laughs with their friends and enjoying the snacks.

Perry and Fluttershy generally avoided any more relationship based questions from them, wanting to just enjoy the evening without feeling like they were under a spotlight. Perry wasn't the kind to brag about being with someone, and Fluttershy was Fluttershy. Quiet and timid, she had a hard time answering anything more than yes and no when people she wasn't all to familiar with asked her about them. The party for the most part had been a big success, as everyone enjoyed it, still not one hundred percent sure what it was about to begin with, but they didn't need a reason to enjoy one of Pinkie's parties.

Perry was off in a corner, eating a plate of cake. One small bite at a time this time around, he slipped it under his mask with a fork, trying to not mess it up again. Fluttershy was talking with a few people, who Perry guessed were clients who needed animal advice based on the questions he had heard them asking. Rainbow, holding a plate of her own, snuck up next to Perry and started to talk with him.

"So, you and Flutters, huh?" she asked him. He simply nodded towards her, sticking another bite under his mask. "It's not that I don't mind or anything... I am just worried about her. You wouldn't flip out on her...like you did me right?" she asked a bit quietly. Perry turned to look at her, and gently ruffled her already shaggy hair. At first she flinched at his subtle assault, before laughing a little..

"I doubt Fluttershy would try to beat the piss out of me in a blind rage," Perry said, Rainbow chuckling more as she thought back to the incident as well, happy that it could be brought down to two stupid mistakes and nothing more. "But even if, and we are talking a huge if here, knowing her, I would never do anything that could hurt her. Your concern towards your friend is greatly appreciated. Maybe, if things do work out, I will ask you to be my best man," he chuckled.

"Thanks, Perry. That means...wait a minute! Who in the hell are you calling a man?!" she yelled slightly. He just continued to chuckle, eventually causing her to laugh again as well. "Ok, I had that coming," Rainbow said after finally calming down. "You seem different though, almost like you're happy because you're happy. It suits ya," she told Perry.

"You may not know it but your comment has indeed made me smile," he told Rainbow.

"By the way, while we are on the topic. Are you ever going to show us that ugly mug of yours?" she asked him. In an attempt to rile her up, Perry said something, in a moment that included lack of thinking, that he felt would soon cause a mob to surround Fluttershy.

"I think Fluttershy might get jealous if she finds out anyone else has seen it," he told her slyly. She simply hung her jaw in awe and decided that Fluttershy was now the person to go to. She started to quickly walk towards Fluttershy, Perry instantly regretted this decision. He felt it was his duty to save his new girlfriend from the onslaught of questions. In a quick movement, he stepped in front of Rainbow and gently picked Fluttershy up. She gasped in shock at the sudden contact. "Come, let us go for a walk while the night air is crisp and fresh."

"Umm sure, I guess, but won't you be doing all the walking if you carry me?" she asked as Perry quickly headed for the door.

"Trivial facts. Not important," he told Fluttershy, noticing Rainbow now telling the rest of her friends. All of them looked on in shock and confusion at his sudden evacuation. Perry didn't hesitate to exit the building, not wanting to let his stupid mouth ruin the evening. Fluttershy didn't complain, though, as she wrapped her arms around him and gently held on, smiling and placing her head into his chest. When he felt he was at a safe distance in the middle of town square, he finally started to tell her what happened. "Sorry about that. I might of let it slip, in a moment of ignorance and pure stupidity, that you have seen my face," he told her. She looked at him, slightly confused.

"Was that a bad thing, because if it was, I am sorry I looked..." Fluttershy said to Perry.

"No need to be sorry. I just had a feeling that you were...about...to...hold on tightly!" he quickly yelled as he jumped upwards, barely avoiding a dark blast of energy that disintegrated the ground where they were standing.

He landed down on a roof, staring down at the direction the attack came from. A black robed figure grumbled slightly, but Perry knew that was a chant. Fluttershy watched in terror, only able to hold on tightly. Dark energy started to form in the palm of the figures hand, making its way quickly, once charged, at the two on the roof. Perry jumped away from the attack, but the ball was coming for them and fast, chasing down their every move. He didn't want to know what would happen if they were hit by it and he didn't want to find out. The figure remained where it stood as Perry tried to outmaneuver the ball. It wasn't working, though, and he couldn't risk putting Fluttershy down as she might get chased by it instead. Perry could only run for so long before getting worn out, so he formulated a plan. He quickly turned and started to run at the spell caster with as much speed as he could gather. The hooded figure noticed the change of pace, and just as Perry was about to hit, it rolled out of the way to avoid being trampled, causing the energy ball to dissipate. Perry stopped and turned towards the caster, who got up and dusted itself off.

"Impressive, young man. I wouldn't expect any less from the man who killed one of my master's pets," he spoke, his voice definitely sounding human. The caster pulled out a small crystal, which Perry recognized quickly as a recollection crystal, a tool designed to hold a spell. He threw it to the ground in front of Perry and teleported away before the crystal hit and shattered. Perry, still holding onto the shaking Fluttershy, backed away quickly. He could tell by the runes forming on the ground that the spell stored inside the crystal was a teleportation seal, meant to transport large objects from one area to another. Perry continued to back away, not wanting to be near the thing when whatever it was came out.

The ground around the crystal started to collapse, as if it was making room for what was approaching. A creature suddenly jolted into existence, its massive size easily three times the height of a house and four times as long. It walked on four large limbs, easily twice the diameter as full grown tree trunks, ending in large flat feet. The body, covered in thick brown fur all over, shadowed several of the buildings in Ponyville. The giants massive head looked around, taking in the scenery with its red glowing eyes. It was undoubtedly the largest living thing Perry has ever laid his eyes on, almost resembling a rhino in regards to the facial structure and giant horn placed on its head. It's gaze shifted towards Perry and Fluttershy, who had fainted from the sight of such a titanic beast. It lifted one of the giant front legs and made an attempted to stomp on Perry.

"Shit..."

Teaser: Ace of Hearts

"As I look towards the sky, as the star wink in my direction, I have to wonder..." a sharply dressed man started to speak, his nice black suit and matching fedora complementing his long brown hair quite nicely.

"Seriously, I agree after you spend hours begging me to go be your drinking buddy, and you decide to start a monologue like I am not here. No, I will have none of that!" the interrupting voice came from a man walking alongside him, wearing gold colored armor almost throughout his whole body, except for his head. He pushed his blue hair out of his eyes and just continued to glare at the other man.

"Ya know Shiny, you're a real killjoy. No one ever complained when he did that," the sharp dressed one said. Shiny, or Shining Armor as he was more well known, just gave a sigh and shook his head.

"Well, Cata, he's crazy, so generally people had a tendency of letting him do what he wanted. You, on the other hand, better behave yourself," Shining Armor sighed. Catacomb, the other man, gave his most sincere look that he could muster and grinned. Shining smacked himself in the face and groaned.

"So, what is new in your life?" Catacomb asked after taking a shot of the drink in front of him. Shining Armor smiled happily, a faint blush on his cheeks.

"Me and Cady are goin to be havin a kid!" Shining said happily as he finished his tenth shot. Catacomb enjoyed having Shining around for these trips. He didn't get to do them often, and the man was just so full of love, that he didn't mind if Catacomb used a little bit of it for an appetizer. Looking around the bar, Catacomb could only sigh.

"I wish others were as happy as you, Shiny," Catacomb sighed. Shining gave him a puzzling look as Catacomb made a nudging motion to a couple at a table, laughing and drinking. "You see them? Though they look happy, it is an act. The man's love for her has all but dried up, though he isn't without it. He has probably had someone on the side for some time now. The woman has realized it already. She just refuses to believe it, thinking that it might still work. It is quite sad really. Sometimes it just doesn't work out."

"You always act so deep when you talk like that, but I know you all too well," Shining said, a slight grin on his face. "You're just thinking of a way to bank on the woman aren't you..."

"Yup," Catacomb responded enthusiastically. "Though I am not sure if I am hungry for rekindled romance, or a one night stand revenge fling. Both are pretty good," Catacomb grinned back. "A changelings gotta eat, ya know?"