Inner Demonsby LunarWolvesChaptersFirst ImpressionsWith Friends Like TheseThe PackInto the FrayNightmaresFirst ImpressionsIt was a cloudy day in Ponyville, they were dark clouds and it was going to rain. Not many ponies were outside except for the few stragglers. By the time it started to rain everyone was inside except for one. Alpharius was walking to towards the Everfree Forest he passed by a mare and their eyes locked as they walked passed each other he noticed that her eyes were an unusual shade of purple. He didn't think much of it because his eyes were a blood orange that glowed faintly. By the time he looked forward again she was standing in front of him and stopped him. "What are you doing out here?" She asked Alpharius. He thought it was a little strange that she was asking questions like they knew each other. "I'm going to visit somepony close to me." He said shyly, Alpharius was a shy pony and wasn't very trusting of others. "Like a marefriend, that's why you have those flowers right?" It almost felt like she was interrogating him and he was getting uncomfortable."No they're for something else, I really should be going." He moved to the side and began walking to the forest. "It was nice talking to you Alpharius I'll see you later I won't be far." She said as he walked past her. How did she know my name? He thought to himself, worried about what she said he got to the edge of the Everfree and looked behind his back to make sure she wasn't following him. There was something about her that made him feel uneasy, Alpharius didn't see her and he began his trek into the Forest. The rain was pouring down at this point luckily the trees were blocking most of the rain and keeping Alpharius dry for the most part. Unlike most ponies he felt safe and composed in the Everfree ,he sat up against a tree to rest for a bit. As he was resting he began to get the same uneasy feeling when he was talking with the mare in town, Alpharius got up and continued walking until he got to a clearing in the forest. It was now nighttime and in the clearing was a lone tombstone. Alpharius approached it sat in front of the lone tombstone in the Everfree Forest, he did not care about the howling wind. The rain hiding his tears that began to form as he stood in front of the stone. "I will find the ones who did this to you." He said with melancholy in his voice. The tombstone belonged to his sister who raised him and was his only friend. He placed the flowers at the base of the stone,then he heard something and he turned around and the mare was standing behind him. "The abomination has feelings" She said with a smirk on her face. Alpharius glared at her. "What did you call me?" As he looked at her he saw the fangs and now he knew why he was feeling uneasy around her she was a vampire. "I want to know who you are and what you want with me!" Alpharius shouted. She chuckled. "My name is Anieta Deathsune and I'm the one who was told to bring you back I know what you are, we have plans for you and we can't waste time." Alpharius' horn began to glow "I don't think so, get away from me and this place!" He fired a bolt of glowing blue magic at her, Anieta dodged the attack and spread her wings then charged at him, Alpharius saw her charge and he raised his leg up and it began to grow scales and his hoof turned into a claw. Anieta bit down on the scaly arm. Alpharius slammed her to the ground and swung his claw. The claw ripped through her flesh and she screamed, and began to bleed profusely. "You may have killed me Star Dragon but the Oder will get you" She said coughing up blood. Alpharius began using a weak healing spell on her to stop the bleeding, then pulled out some bandages from his bag and wrapped Anieta's wounds. so they wouldn't get infected. She looked at him with a confused look. "Why are you helping me?" Alpharius said nothing until he finished wrapping the wound. "Get out now." He said showing no emotion. Anieta staggered up and flew into the forest. Alpharius sat by the tombstone silent until she was no longer in sight. Alpharius went back to the front of the tombstone and said quietly. "I need to leave I'll talk with you later sis..." He walked back towards Ponyville but somepony else was there watching what happened. Anieta didn't know what to think, the Order told her that Alpharius was a merciless killer but he spared her life even after she tried to capture him, had they been lying to her all this time? With Friends Like TheseAlpharius was feeling weak and sick from turning part of his body into a claw, he hated transforming .The rain began to lighten up a bit and he was drained of energy, Alpharius found a dry spot and made a small campfire. Alpharius sat by the fire and watched it burn, he thought about the mare and what she said. How did she know my secret and who is this Order? He knew wouldn't find the answers in the forest, he needed to get home and research the Order and it's connection with his secret. A few hours passed and he began hearing wolves howling and before he knew it he was surrounded. Alpharius jumped up ready to defend himself from the three timber wolves, he cast a bolt of magic at the wolves but they didn't retreat, a timber wolf lunged from the darkness and tackled Alpharius. Alpharius managed to get off the ground but not before being bitten, he ran into the woods and didn't look back. The timber wolves began their pursuit after him. He slid into a ditch to avoid them, the wolves caught up and they searched the area and gave up shortly after. Alpharius was injured badly he began to lose consciousness, as he began fading he saw a figure approach him. Alpharius began to wake up, the first thing he felt was the agonizing headache and pain his chest. He looked around, he was in a cottage, he saw a small mirror and looked at it, there were bandages on his head and wrapped around his chest. The room only had a bed,nightstand and a bookshelf. Alpharius sat up and ignored the pain, He then walked to the small window and looked out "I'm still in the Everfree forest..." He said to himself quietly then he heard a sound, he got back into the bed as soon as he could. Alpharius laid in the bed and he was in agonizing pain, then the door opened. The door opened slowly and a light blue pony walked in "You are one lucky pony, I thought you were gone for good. " He said as he walked to Alpharius. He looked at him confused. "What do you mean, what happened?" he sat up and the pain flared in his body."You have were attacked by timber wolves. I found you dying in a ditch, and yet you can kill a vampire with no problem." When Alpharius heard that, he knew that he saw what happened at his sisters grave. "Who are you and what were my injuries?" He said rubbing the back of his head."My name is Moon Chaser, you had a concussion, several broken ribs and internal bleeding. You've been out for almost a week now." Alpharius froze up. "A week...I need to get home I can't stay here." Moon Chaser stared at Alpharius as if he was stupid. "You need to recover still." Alpharius got out of the bed. "I'll be fine, there is something really important I have to do." He said as he walked to the door. Moon Chaser stood in front of the doorway. "What is so important, do you need to take care of The Order, Star Dragon? I saw and heard everything that happened at that grave kid." Alpharius knew what he was talking about and he stopped walking to the door. "What do you want me to do?" Alpharius was scared that he would tell everyone about his secret, he knew that he needed to recover. "I want you to recover for another day and I'll let you go. Oh and you can call me Chaser." Alpharius nodded and sat on the bed. "I'll check up on you in a few hours." Chaser said before he left the room. Alpharius looked at the books on the shelf and one of them caught his eye. The book was titled "Ancient Relics and Artifacts". He looked through it and one item caught his eye "The Amulet of the Miasma." Alpharius began reading it,"The amulet of the Miasma is a dark and cruel relic that can destroy entire races and was created by Nightmare Moon, the Star Dragons tried to stop Nightmare Moon but failed. Many cults and groups that still worship Nightmare Moon are believed to still be searching this forgotten relic." The Stallion tore the page out of the book and put it in his bag which was by the nightstand. Alpharius laid in the bed and dozed off without knowing it. He was woken up by the sound of Chaser entering. "How are you feeling?" He asked "Much better now thanks." Alpharius said as he began to stand up. "You should eat something before you leave." "Yeah it's probably a good idea." Alpharius said, he followed Chaser out of the room to a table with some food on it. Alpharius began eating and Chaser asked. "I want to help you with your mission." Alpharius looked up."Why do you want to help me?" He asked. "I've dealt with the Order before they took somepony very close to me and I want to help you bring them down." Alpharius thought for about the request. "You can join me, I'll need some help for this." Chaser Smiled. "Thank you this means a lot to me and I won't let you down." Alpharius finished the food. "We should head out." Alpharius walked outside followed by Chaser. The two walked through the forest and then Alpharius noticed something. It was a mangled corpse,"They were attacked by timber wolves." Chaser said, Alpharius checked the tattered bag and found a note and read it."Your target is a mare named Riku, she knows about the Orders plans and must be taken care of, use caution she is very manipulative and deceiving." Chaser looked at Alpharius. "We need to find this Riku and fast." He nodded and began walking to Ponyville to find Riku. The two made there way into Ponyville."Was there any description on what she looked like or where she would be?" Chaser asked. Alpharius showed the blood stained photo that came with the contract. They began searching the town. The two split up to try and track her down faster, the sun began to set and it got dark fast. Alpharius was walking down a road when felt a chill go down his spine, he felt paralyzed and he heard a voice come out of the shadows. "What is somepony like you doing out so late, you know it's dangerous out here at night." He looked over and it was Riku and she was approaching him."I could ask you the same thing. I need your help, what do you know about the Order?" Riku came close to him and looked into his eyes and noticed that the had a faint glow to them she stepped back. "I'll tell what I know about them but now here follow me." She walked into an alley and Alpharius followed her. Riku opened a door that lead into a house Alpharius followed her inside."What do you want to know about them?" She asked, Alpharius showed her the contract. "You know something that they don't want anypony knowing about so what is it?" Riku snapped back at him "Don't have that tone with me kid, I was working and this one pony was talking about some plan to find a relic of great power so I asked him about and he said that he was with a group called the Order, that's all I know but why would they send somepony to kill me?" She said with some concern." I don't know why they would, but I need your help stopping them from finding that relic do you want to help?" She thought of the proposition. "Yes I will help you stop them. May I ask why you are trying to stop them?" She questioned. "I was attacked by one of them and she was trying to take me because of a secret I have, I can't really talk about it." Alpharius left the home and met back up with Moon Chaser. "Where have you been? I was looking all over for you." Chaser said. "I found Riku and she is going to help us." He said. Riku caught up with Alpharius and Chaser. "What is your name?" she said to Alpharius. "I'm Alpharius." He replied.Interesting name, and you are?" she said looking at Chaser. "I'm Moon Chaser it's good to meet you." The PackAlpharius,Chaser and Riku were walking to Alpharius' house to get things they were going to need for their trip to the Unicorn Range. As the trio was walking Riku broke the silence. "There is something about you Alpharius, I can sense that somethings off about you." Alpharius looked at her. "I don't want to talk about it, and how are you able to sense me? You're a pegasus ." He questioned, she responded. "I'm a vampire don't you remember how you couldn't move when you were in the alley." She giggled. Alpharius did like the idea of a vampire in his company. He hated the fact she was a vampire he wasn't going to trust her anytime soon but he had to. Chaser noticed Alpharius get a little uneasy when she said that."Let's just get to Alpharius' house and we can talk more there, it's not the safest idea with some crazy cult looking for us." Alpharius and Riku both nodded and they got to the house on at the edge of town. The house was old possibly one of the first ones made in Ponyville, He opened the door and it was pitch black inside all the curtains were closed, but the home was clean and had some old looking decorations. Alpharius led his guests into his home and they all sat in the living room. Alpharius was the first one to speak. "We need to prepare for the Unicorn Range, we will learn the most about what were up against." Alpharius has never been to the Unicorn Range,from what he has read that is where unicorns learn and practice their magic. Riku opposed the idea. "We can't go there because I'm a vampire, and you are something that is bad." Alpharius said "As long as we don't do anything to draw attention to are selves we'll be fine." Chaser nodded in agreement. "You to talk and get to know each other, there's a few things I need to do." Alpharius said as he entered his room, he went to a desk and turned on a lamp that was on the desk. An envelope was on the desk, Alpharius opened and read the letter. Hello we need to talk, please meet me ion the Everfree. I know what you are planing and I want to help. -A friend P.S. please come alone. Alpharius thought about the request, He had been getting everything they would need for this trip. by the time he finished Chaser and Riku where sleeping by the fireplace. Alpharius set the packs with all they will need against the wall, then quietly sneaked out and headed towards the Everfree. Alpharius was going through the forest and he saw a lone unicorn waiting for him. "If you're here I assume you got my note." The mysterious unicorn said. "Indeed I did, you said that you wanted help me, why would you want to help?" The unicorn approached Alpharius. "My family was killed by a gang that matches this Order you're going after. Alpharius knew something was off about him but he needed more help. "Welcome aboard, may I ask your name?" Alpharius asked. The unicorn said. "My name is Zio, it's an honor to be in your company, Star Dragon." Alpharius looked at him "How did you know?" Zio Chuckled. "I can communicate with the timber wolves in the Everfree, and they saw what you did to that vampire." Alpharius was impressed with this gift he had and could make use of it. "Follow me to my home we are almost ready to head out. Zio nodded as he followed Alpharius back to his home. The two unicorns got back home, Alpharius said to Zio."Get some rest you're going to need it for tomorrow. Zio nodded and laid on his bedroll like the others and quickly fell asleep. The next morning Alpharius woke up a bit earlier then the others to find somepony that knew the area well. When he was walking he ran into a another pony, "I am so sorry." She said helping Alpharius up." It's okay it was my fault, I'm looking for somepony who knows how to get to Unicorn Ridge." She smiled "I know how to get there I know the place like the back of my hoof, do you need help getting there?" "Yeah I do do you think you can come with me and my friends and get us there?" Alpharius asked. Shea said. "I would love to help you and I can gets some inspiration for my art, but I heard rumors of some dangerous looking ponies that direction." Alpharius replied. "Don't worry about them, trust me." His only concern was that she was a bit young and she could be a liability."Can you hold your own?" He asked. "I sure can." She said with enthusiasm. "Alright I will see you later then and wait at the edge of town for us." She nodded and went back to her business and he went back to the house . When Alpharius got back to his home Riku and Zio where talking, Chaser was asleep still. "Hi Alpha, where were you this morning?" He replied "I was getting some information about the what is ahead and I got somepony who knows the way to help us." Alpharius double checked all the gear and then woke Chaser up. "Wake up Chaser we need to get ready to leave. Riku asked. "Chaser, why are you with Alpha?" Chaser said. "The Order took somepony very close to me." It pained him to talk about it and couldn't go on. Riku felt bad for asking. "I'm sorry." Zio put a hoof on his shoulder. "It will be alright friend we're here for you." Chaser smiled. "Thanks Zio, and don't feel bad Riku, you didn't know." Alpharius smiled a little at how quickly they all became friends and accepted each other, like family. Into the FrayAlpharius, Chaser, Riku, and Zio grabbed their gear and went out and walked to the edge of town, as they got to the edge They saw Sketch Heart waiting for them. "Hiya Alpharius, took you long enough!" She beamed at the group, Alpharius and the others smiled back at her. "We had a late start but were ready now." Sketch nodded. "Who is everypony else?" She asked. "I'm chaser glad to meet you." "I'm Riku it's nice to meet you." "I'm Zio pleasure to meet you." She smiled back at them and the group started walking down the path to the Unicorn Range. As the party was walking Zio asked Alpharius. "Are you excited about visiting home Alpha?" Alpharius replied. "I'm not from the Unicorn Range, what made you think that?" Zio said. "Oh...I just thought... because of your skills in dark magic." Zio felt dumb for asking the question. Chaser, Riku, and Sketch Heart stopped and the all said. "You use dark magic!?" Alpharius got defensive. "Yes I use dark magic who cares! Lets just get moving again." He continued walking."No you never told us about what kind of magic you use, What else are you hiding from us.?" Riku demanded."No I don't need to tell you anything about myself." Riku was upset and was approaching him, Sketch Heart spoke up. "Please don't fight, Alpharius can explain when we get to our destination." Riku calmed down and she said. "Sorry for getting upset I don't like it when ponies hide things from me." Alpharius nodded quietly and the party started moving again. The sun began to set they were walking next to the edge of the forest, Alpharius was ahead of the others trying to avoid conversation. Chaser asked Riku. "You don't trust him do you?" She sighed. "I don't trust him at all, I think he doesn't trust us either. But he does know what he is doing." Chaser nodded in agreement. "I'll talk with the others about him, he does seem to know more than he's letting on." Chaser moved up to talk with Zio and Sketch heart. The night sky was out and they found a place in the woods to set up camp. "We need some fire wood. Alpharius and Zio can you get wood for the fire?" Sketch Heart asked. The two nodded and went into the forest to find firewood."Alpharius, can I ask you something?" Zio said. "Ask away." Alpharius replied. "Do you trust us because the others are saying you don't trust them." Alpharius was very distrusting of others because of past experiences. "I might in time but for now you are all just allies nothing more." He said as he lifted some branches with magic. Before Zio could say anything the two unicorns heard something near by and investigated it. Alpharius and Zio came to another small clearing and there was a group of cultists with a prisoner. Zio whispered. "What are they doing here?" "Sketch Heart said something about some ponies sulking around,she must have been talking about them,but we need to free that prisoner they have." Alpharius whispered back, and began moving in closer to hear what the cultists were talking about. When Alpharius came closer he listened to them talk while Zio was on over watch. "Why do we need this pegasus, why not just kill him and move on?" One said. "Because this one has no soul he will be useful for our cause." He said to the other one with an angry tone. Zio watched them and waited for an opportunity to sneak in, as the two went into their tent Zio moved in and Alpharius moved in shortly afterward. The prisoner was asleep by the fire, Zio woke him up and untied him. "Were here to get you out of here." The pegasus nodded and followed Zio and Alpharius back to their camp. Chaser saw them "You're back, and I see you brought somepony with you." Zio replied. "There were cultists of the Order and they had him as a captive." The pegasus spoke "Thank you for saving me, but why did you risk your lives to save me?" Alpharius answered. "Those cultists belonged to the order,and they're bad news, what is your name?" The pegasus said. "I'm Gale Mist, and thanks again for saving me." "It was nothing, you were in trouble." Zio said. Chaser pointed behind them. "Uh guys, we have company!" There was a small group of cultists charging in at them. Zio and Alpharius began firing bolts of magic at them while Chaser, Riku, and Gale flew at them to closer. Chaser threw a cultist against a tree,breaking its neck. One of the cultists came at Riku with a dagger, she dodged the swing and disarmed the cultist and stabbed him with the dagger. During the fight there was a shout "For Vect's 4th legion, slaughter them all!" A group of griffons charged in attacking the cultists. In the chaos of the fighting the group ran away into the forest. "What was that all about?" Chaser asked Alpharius. "I have no idea, but we need to keep moving and get as much distance between us and them as possible." Chaser and Riku flew ahead to find a safe place to camp for the night. Alpharius moved up to Gale. "I need to know somethings about you, why did the cultist say you had no soul, Is it true?" Gale replied. "Yes it's true I had my soul taken from me when I was young. I've been trying to get it back ever sense." Alpharius was intrigued by Gales story. "You should come with us and maybe we can get your soul back."Gale thought about the request. "Fine, I'll help you." Gale didn't trust Alpharius or the others but he felt that he owed them for saving him. Alpharius put his hoof out. "It's good to have you on the team." Gale shook it. Chaser and Riku got back. "There is a cave not far from here." Riku said The others nodded and hurried to the cave. The cave entrance was well hidden for it's large size. Alpharius made sure everyone was in the cave, as they were entering he noticed Zio was limping. Sketch Heart casted a barrier to protect the entrance. Zio laid down and Alpharius looked at his injury. "You were cut by a sword, luckily it's not serious." Alpharius had Chaser wrap the gash. Riku said. "We need to get some rest, I want to be out of these wood as soon as possible." "I agree with Riku, something big is happening and we need to stop it." NightmaresAlpharius and his allies had set up their bedrolls to get some rest. “You should get some rest Alpharius, you need it badly. So do you Gale you've been through a lot.” Chaser said. Gale nodded and found a place to sleep by the fire.”I'll be fine Chaser, you don't need to worry about me.” Alpharius said still looking at the fire. He hadn't slept in two days, and couldn't even if he wanted to there was too much on Alpharius' mind. Chaser knew He was not fine in anyway, he was concerned for Alpharius. “Just get some rest, I'll keep watch.” Alpharius knew that Chaser wasn't going to take no for an answer, he went to his pack and grabbed his bedroll, as he was taking it out a small photograph fell out onto the floor. Alpharius quickly picked it up but he was noticed by Riku and Zio. “Whats that Alpharius?” Zio asked. “It's nothing important.” “It seems pretty important to you Alpharius.” Said Riku. “Yes to me it's important, nobody else,lets get some sleep” Alpharius said as he laid on his bed roll. The others nodded and went to sleep, Alpharius stared at the cave ceiling in thought why did the Order want a pegasus with no soul? Who was Vect's 4th legion, what was their gain all of this? Alpharius left the cave and went for a walk in the forest. Alpharius felt at ease and calm in the night sky. He always felt better when he could see the stars. While gazing up at the stars and bright moonlight he walked to a pond with some ruins. The pond and the surrounding meadow felt odd to him. Alpharius looked at the pond, he stared at his reflection, He then saw his sisters reflection next to him. Alpharius quickly looked back up but nothing was there, he turned around and saw a pony standing in front of him. As he was about to speak he feels something grab him and pull him into the pond. He hears his sisters voice. “Come drown with me.” Alpharius Thrashed trying to get out, as he got to the surface he saw a large dragon flying away. Then he was pulled back down. Alpharius began loosing consciousness, then he felt something grab his hoof and pull him out as he hit the surface everything went black. Alpharius was in darkness hearing voices.”Hello Alpharius...” The voice said with a demoralizing tone. “Who are you where am I?” Alpharius asked, the voice spoke back. “Your location doesn't matter at the moment. I am Níðhöggr.” The name stung as Alpharius heard it.“I'm giving you the chance to join me.” the voice laughed. “No, I know what you are and what you do.” Alpharius said with his moral on the verge of breaking. “I knew you going to say that, I will give a taste of what I can give you.” Alpharius saw a faint glow in the darkness, as it moved closer he saw it was an amulet. The amulet wrapped around his neck and began to cause agonizing pain everywhere in his body. Alpharius was screaming in torment as the energy coursed through his body. “We will meet again, I promise you...” The voice faded, then he heard another one. “Alpharius...Alpharius.” His eyes shot open and Gale was pounding on his chest. Alpharius sat up and coughed up water and began breathing again. “Alpharius! What happened to you?” Gale said. “I..I don't know Gale. If I told you, you wouldn't believe me, how did yo-” Before Alpharius could finish talking Gale interrupted him. “Where did you get that amulet?” He looked down and there was and amulet. Alpharius tried to take it off but it wouldn't come off. “I found it... Don't worry about it.” Gale glared at him. “I will worry about it, this place is a temple of Sylara! She ruined my life, and I find you here drowning in the pond and you have an amulet that you never had before!”Alpharius began walking back to the cave “Lets get back to the cave we can talk there.” Gale stopped him. “No, you start talking now.” Alpharius looked back at him. “Does this look like an amulet of Sylara? It has ancient dragon writing on it. This is much older than Sylara.” Gale quieted down and followed Alpharius back to the cave. “You might want to cover up that amulet Alpharius.” Gale said. Alpharius nodded in agreement. When the two got back to the cave Alpharius put on a his jacket to hide the amulet from view and the two laid on there bedrolls to get some sleep for the long walk ahead. Later that night Chaser heard a sound and woke up. He looked around, the cave was empty and he was all alone. Chaser got up and went to towards the exit but the cave seemed to go on forever. He began to get scared. “What is going on?” he said. A voice spoke back “Do not be afraid, I will not harm you.” The voice said in a soothing tone. Chaser turned around and an elegant silver dragon was looking at him. She snapped her fingers and there was a bright flash, in the dragons place was a unicorn. “My name is Adalinda, you must listen to me. Your friend is in grave danger, A dark and powerful Dracolich named Níðhöggr is going to corrupt him and use him to start another war in Equestria.” Chaser moved up to her. “What do you mean by another?” Adalinda responded. “Him and his followers are the ones responsible for corrupting Luna.” Chaser nodded. “What do I need to do?”He asked “You must go to Canterlot and go to the Star Dragon shrine in the castle gardens, I will watch over you and your friends.” She said, as she began to vanish. Chaser than felt a dull pain in his ribs and he woke up. “Wake up Chaser, were leaving.” Riku said with an irritated look on her face, Chaser looked around. “Yeah, sorry...” He stood up and packed his things and put on his pack. Alpharius was at the entrance of the cave. “I hope you all god enough rest, we won't be stopping until we get to the Unicorn Range.” The others nodded and were ready. “Sketch Heart, ready to lead the way.” Sketch Heart smiled and went outside. “Follow me everypony.” The others followed her out into the cold morning. The group got out of the forest and began hiking up the mountains. As they made their way to the top Zio stopped them. “Look at the view, it's absolutely stunning.” The group looked around, they could see Canterlot, Cloudsdale,and the forests, and the small dot that was Ponyville. “Lets keep moving were almost there, then we can relax for a bit.” Alpharius told the others. “I agree with Alpharius, we don't want to be out here when it gets dark.” Said Sketch Heart, she began leading them towards the summit of the mountain. When they reached the top there was a gruesome aftermath of a battle. Sketch Heart hid behind the others. “What the hell happened her?” Gale said. Alpharius and Chaser inspected the bodies. “They look like royal guard renegades. Look at the defiled badges and emblems.” Alpharius saw that they had the symbol of the order painted on their armor. “Alpharius the other ones look like they are from Vect's 4th.” “I guess they tried to ambush us up here, but what killed them?” Gale asked. “It looks like wild life of some kind finished off who ever was left.” Zio said, the group quickly left the place and began going down the mountain. By the time Alpharius and the others got to the bottom of the mountain and onto the road, the sun was beginning to set. “I see some lights further down the road lets go!” Chaser and Riku flew towards the town, the other were barely able to keep up. Alpharius and the others got to the town. They went to an inn when they got to the desk when the attendant turned around Chaser recognized the white unicorn and felt uneasy.”Can I help you?” She said looking at Alpharius. “We would like a room for the night.” He placed a silver coin that had a blue tint to it. “This will be enough to cover us.” Her eyes widened. “Yes this is more than enough. I'll take you to your room.” She lead them to the nicest room available.
First ImpressionsIt was a cloudy day in Ponyville, they were dark clouds and it was going to rain. Not many ponies were outside except for the few stragglers. By the time it started to rain everyone was inside except for one. Alpharius was walking to towards the Everfree Forest he passed by a mare and their eyes locked as they walked passed each other he noticed that her eyes were an unusual shade of purple. He didn't think much of it because his eyes were a blood orange that glowed faintly. By the time he looked forward again she was standing in front of him and stopped him. "What are you doing out here?" She asked Alpharius. He thought it was a little strange that she was asking questions like they knew each other. "I'm going to visit somepony close to me." He said shyly, Alpharius was a shy pony and wasn't very trusting of others. "Like a marefriend, that's why you have those flowers right?" It almost felt like she was interrogating him and he was getting uncomfortable."No they're for something else, I really should be going." He moved to the side and began walking to the forest. "It was nice talking to you Alpharius I'll see you later I won't be far." She said as he walked past her. How did she know my name? He thought to himself, worried about what she said he got to the edge of the Everfree and looked behind his back to make sure she wasn't following him. There was something about her that made him feel uneasy, Alpharius didn't see her and he began his trek into the Forest. The rain was pouring down at this point luckily the trees were blocking most of the rain and keeping Alpharius dry for the most part. Unlike most ponies he felt safe and composed in the Everfree ,he sat up against a tree to rest for a bit. As he was resting he began to get the same uneasy feeling when he was talking with the mare in town, Alpharius got up and continued walking until he got to a clearing in the forest. It was now nighttime and in the clearing was a lone tombstone. Alpharius approached it sat in front of the lone tombstone in the Everfree Forest, he did not care about the howling wind. The rain hiding his tears that began to form as he stood in front of the stone. "I will find the ones who did this to you." He said with melancholy in his voice. The tombstone belonged to his sister who raised him and was his only friend. He placed the flowers at the base of the stone,then he heard something and he turned around and the mare was standing behind him. "The abomination has feelings" She said with a smirk on her face. Alpharius glared at her. "What did you call me?" As he looked at her he saw the fangs and now he knew why he was feeling uneasy around her she was a vampire. "I want to know who you are and what you want with me!" Alpharius shouted. She chuckled. "My name is Anieta Deathsune and I'm the one who was told to bring you back I know what you are, we have plans for you and we can't waste time." Alpharius' horn began to glow "I don't think so, get away from me and this place!" He fired a bolt of glowing blue magic at her, Anieta dodged the attack and spread her wings then charged at him, Alpharius saw her charge and he raised his leg up and it began to grow scales and his hoof turned into a claw. Anieta bit down on the scaly arm. Alpharius slammed her to the ground and swung his claw. The claw ripped through her flesh and she screamed, and began to bleed profusely. "You may have killed me Star Dragon but the Oder will get you" She said coughing up blood. Alpharius began using a weak healing spell on her to stop the bleeding, then pulled out some bandages from his bag and wrapped Anieta's wounds. so they wouldn't get infected. She looked at him with a confused look. "Why are you helping me?" Alpharius said nothing until he finished wrapping the wound. "Get out now." He said showing no emotion. Anieta staggered up and flew into the forest. Alpharius sat by the tombstone silent until she was no longer in sight. Alpharius went back to the front of the tombstone and said quietly. "I need to leave I'll talk with you later sis..." He walked back towards Ponyville but somepony else was there watching what happened. Anieta didn't know what to think, the Order told her that Alpharius was a merciless killer but he spared her life even after she tried to capture him, had they been lying to her all this time?
With Friends Like TheseAlpharius was feeling weak and sick from turning part of his body into a claw, he hated transforming .The rain began to lighten up a bit and he was drained of energy, Alpharius found a dry spot and made a small campfire. Alpharius sat by the fire and watched it burn, he thought about the mare and what she said. How did she know my secret and who is this Order? He knew wouldn't find the answers in the forest, he needed to get home and research the Order and it's connection with his secret. A few hours passed and he began hearing wolves howling and before he knew it he was surrounded. Alpharius jumped up ready to defend himself from the three timber wolves, he cast a bolt of magic at the wolves but they didn't retreat, a timber wolf lunged from the darkness and tackled Alpharius. Alpharius managed to get off the ground but not before being bitten, he ran into the woods and didn't look back. The timber wolves began their pursuit after him. He slid into a ditch to avoid them, the wolves caught up and they searched the area and gave up shortly after. Alpharius was injured badly he began to lose consciousness, as he began fading he saw a figure approach him. Alpharius began to wake up, the first thing he felt was the agonizing headache and pain his chest. He looked around, he was in a cottage, he saw a small mirror and looked at it, there were bandages on his head and wrapped around his chest. The room only had a bed,nightstand and a bookshelf. Alpharius sat up and ignored the pain, He then walked to the small window and looked out "I'm still in the Everfree forest..." He said to himself quietly then he heard a sound, he got back into the bed as soon as he could. Alpharius laid in the bed and he was in agonizing pain, then the door opened. The door opened slowly and a light blue pony walked in "You are one lucky pony, I thought you were gone for good. " He said as he walked to Alpharius. He looked at him confused. "What do you mean, what happened?" he sat up and the pain flared in his body."You have were attacked by timber wolves. I found you dying in a ditch, and yet you can kill a vampire with no problem." When Alpharius heard that, he knew that he saw what happened at his sisters grave. "Who are you and what were my injuries?" He said rubbing the back of his head."My name is Moon Chaser, you had a concussion, several broken ribs and internal bleeding. You've been out for almost a week now." Alpharius froze up. "A week...I need to get home I can't stay here." Moon Chaser stared at Alpharius as if he was stupid. "You need to recover still." Alpharius got out of the bed. "I'll be fine, there is something really important I have to do." He said as he walked to the door. Moon Chaser stood in front of the doorway. "What is so important, do you need to take care of The Order, Star Dragon? I saw and heard everything that happened at that grave kid." Alpharius knew what he was talking about and he stopped walking to the door. "What do you want me to do?" Alpharius was scared that he would tell everyone about his secret, he knew that he needed to recover. "I want you to recover for another day and I'll let you go. Oh and you can call me Chaser." Alpharius nodded and sat on the bed. "I'll check up on you in a few hours." Chaser said before he left the room. Alpharius looked at the books on the shelf and one of them caught his eye. The book was titled "Ancient Relics and Artifacts". He looked through it and one item caught his eye "The Amulet of the Miasma." Alpharius began reading it,"The amulet of the Miasma is a dark and cruel relic that can destroy entire races and was created by Nightmare Moon, the Star Dragons tried to stop Nightmare Moon but failed. Many cults and groups that still worship Nightmare Moon are believed to still be searching this forgotten relic." The Stallion tore the page out of the book and put it in his bag which was by the nightstand. Alpharius laid in the bed and dozed off without knowing it. He was woken up by the sound of Chaser entering. "How are you feeling?" He asked "Much better now thanks." Alpharius said as he began to stand up. "You should eat something before you leave." "Yeah it's probably a good idea." Alpharius said, he followed Chaser out of the room to a table with some food on it. Alpharius began eating and Chaser asked. "I want to help you with your mission." Alpharius looked up."Why do you want to help me?" He asked. "I've dealt with the Order before they took somepony very close to me and I want to help you bring them down." Alpharius thought for about the request. "You can join me, I'll need some help for this." Chaser Smiled. "Thank you this means a lot to me and I won't let you down." Alpharius finished the food. "We should head out." Alpharius walked outside followed by Chaser. The two walked through the forest and then Alpharius noticed something. It was a mangled corpse,"They were attacked by timber wolves." Chaser said, Alpharius checked the tattered bag and found a note and read it."Your target is a mare named Riku, she knows about the Orders plans and must be taken care of, use caution she is very manipulative and deceiving." Chaser looked at Alpharius. "We need to find this Riku and fast." He nodded and began walking to Ponyville to find Riku. The two made there way into Ponyville."Was there any description on what she looked like or where she would be?" Chaser asked. Alpharius showed the blood stained photo that came with the contract. They began searching the town. The two split up to try and track her down faster, the sun began to set and it got dark fast. Alpharius was walking down a road when felt a chill go down his spine, he felt paralyzed and he heard a voice come out of the shadows. "What is somepony like you doing out so late, you know it's dangerous out here at night." He looked over and it was Riku and she was approaching him."I could ask you the same thing. I need your help, what do you know about the Order?" Riku came close to him and looked into his eyes and noticed that the had a faint glow to them she stepped back. "I'll tell what I know about them but now here follow me." She walked into an alley and Alpharius followed her. Riku opened a door that lead into a house Alpharius followed her inside."What do you want to know about them?" She asked, Alpharius showed her the contract. "You know something that they don't want anypony knowing about so what is it?" Riku snapped back at him "Don't have that tone with me kid, I was working and this one pony was talking about some plan to find a relic of great power so I asked him about and he said that he was with a group called the Order, that's all I know but why would they send somepony to kill me?" She said with some concern." I don't know why they would, but I need your help stopping them from finding that relic do you want to help?" She thought of the proposition. "Yes I will help you stop them. May I ask why you are trying to stop them?" She questioned. "I was attacked by one of them and she was trying to take me because of a secret I have, I can't really talk about it." Alpharius left the home and met back up with Moon Chaser. "Where have you been? I was looking all over for you." Chaser said. "I found Riku and she is going to help us." He said. Riku caught up with Alpharius and Chaser. "What is your name?" she said to Alpharius. "I'm Alpharius." He replied.Interesting name, and you are?" she said looking at Chaser. "I'm Moon Chaser it's good to meet you."
The PackAlpharius,Chaser and Riku were walking to Alpharius' house to get things they were going to need for their trip to the Unicorn Range. As the trio was walking Riku broke the silence. "There is something about you Alpharius, I can sense that somethings off about you." Alpharius looked at her. "I don't want to talk about it, and how are you able to sense me? You're a pegasus ." He questioned, she responded. "I'm a vampire don't you remember how you couldn't move when you were in the alley." She giggled. Alpharius did like the idea of a vampire in his company. He hated the fact she was a vampire he wasn't going to trust her anytime soon but he had to. Chaser noticed Alpharius get a little uneasy when she said that."Let's just get to Alpharius' house and we can talk more there, it's not the safest idea with some crazy cult looking for us." Alpharius and Riku both nodded and they got to the house on at the edge of town. The house was old possibly one of the first ones made in Ponyville, He opened the door and it was pitch black inside all the curtains were closed, but the home was clean and had some old looking decorations. Alpharius led his guests into his home and they all sat in the living room. Alpharius was the first one to speak. "We need to prepare for the Unicorn Range, we will learn the most about what were up against." Alpharius has never been to the Unicorn Range,from what he has read that is where unicorns learn and practice their magic. Riku opposed the idea. "We can't go there because I'm a vampire, and you are something that is bad." Alpharius said "As long as we don't do anything to draw attention to are selves we'll be fine." Chaser nodded in agreement. "You to talk and get to know each other, there's a few things I need to do." Alpharius said as he entered his room, he went to a desk and turned on a lamp that was on the desk. An envelope was on the desk, Alpharius opened and read the letter. Hello we need to talk, please meet me ion the Everfree. I know what you are planing and I want to help. -A friend P.S. please come alone. Alpharius thought about the request, He had been getting everything they would need for this trip. by the time he finished Chaser and Riku where sleeping by the fireplace. Alpharius set the packs with all they will need against the wall, then quietly sneaked out and headed towards the Everfree. Alpharius was going through the forest and he saw a lone unicorn waiting for him. "If you're here I assume you got my note." The mysterious unicorn said. "Indeed I did, you said that you wanted help me, why would you want to help?" The unicorn approached Alpharius. "My family was killed by a gang that matches this Order you're going after. Alpharius knew something was off about him but he needed more help. "Welcome aboard, may I ask your name?" Alpharius asked. The unicorn said. "My name is Zio, it's an honor to be in your company, Star Dragon." Alpharius looked at him "How did you know?" Zio Chuckled. "I can communicate with the timber wolves in the Everfree, and they saw what you did to that vampire." Alpharius was impressed with this gift he had and could make use of it. "Follow me to my home we are almost ready to head out. Zio nodded as he followed Alpharius back to his home. The two unicorns got back home, Alpharius said to Zio."Get some rest you're going to need it for tomorrow. Zio nodded and laid on his bedroll like the others and quickly fell asleep. The next morning Alpharius woke up a bit earlier then the others to find somepony that knew the area well. When he was walking he ran into a another pony, "I am so sorry." She said helping Alpharius up." It's okay it was my fault, I'm looking for somepony who knows how to get to Unicorn Ridge." She smiled "I know how to get there I know the place like the back of my hoof, do you need help getting there?" "Yeah I do do you think you can come with me and my friends and get us there?" Alpharius asked. Shea said. "I would love to help you and I can gets some inspiration for my art, but I heard rumors of some dangerous looking ponies that direction." Alpharius replied. "Don't worry about them, trust me." His only concern was that she was a bit young and she could be a liability."Can you hold your own?" He asked. "I sure can." She said with enthusiasm. "Alright I will see you later then and wait at the edge of town for us." She nodded and went back to her business and he went back to the house . When Alpharius got back to his home Riku and Zio where talking, Chaser was asleep still. "Hi Alpha, where were you this morning?" He replied "I was getting some information about the what is ahead and I got somepony who knows the way to help us." Alpharius double checked all the gear and then woke Chaser up. "Wake up Chaser we need to get ready to leave. Riku asked. "Chaser, why are you with Alpha?" Chaser said. "The Order took somepony very close to me." It pained him to talk about it and couldn't go on. Riku felt bad for asking. "I'm sorry." Zio put a hoof on his shoulder. "It will be alright friend we're here for you." Chaser smiled. "Thanks Zio, and don't feel bad Riku, you didn't know." Alpharius smiled a little at how quickly they all became friends and accepted each other, like family.
Into the FrayAlpharius, Chaser, Riku, and Zio grabbed their gear and went out and walked to the edge of town, as they got to the edge They saw Sketch Heart waiting for them. "Hiya Alpharius, took you long enough!" She beamed at the group, Alpharius and the others smiled back at her. "We had a late start but were ready now." Sketch nodded. "Who is everypony else?" She asked. "I'm chaser glad to meet you." "I'm Riku it's nice to meet you." "I'm Zio pleasure to meet you." She smiled back at them and the group started walking down the path to the Unicorn Range. As the party was walking Zio asked Alpharius. "Are you excited about visiting home Alpha?" Alpharius replied. "I'm not from the Unicorn Range, what made you think that?" Zio said. "Oh...I just thought... because of your skills in dark magic." Zio felt dumb for asking the question. Chaser, Riku, and Sketch Heart stopped and the all said. "You use dark magic!?" Alpharius got defensive. "Yes I use dark magic who cares! Lets just get moving again." He continued walking."No you never told us about what kind of magic you use, What else are you hiding from us.?" Riku demanded."No I don't need to tell you anything about myself." Riku was upset and was approaching him, Sketch Heart spoke up. "Please don't fight, Alpharius can explain when we get to our destination." Riku calmed down and she said. "Sorry for getting upset I don't like it when ponies hide things from me." Alpharius nodded quietly and the party started moving again. The sun began to set they were walking next to the edge of the forest, Alpharius was ahead of the others trying to avoid conversation. Chaser asked Riku. "You don't trust him do you?" She sighed. "I don't trust him at all, I think he doesn't trust us either. But he does know what he is doing." Chaser nodded in agreement. "I'll talk with the others about him, he does seem to know more than he's letting on." Chaser moved up to talk with Zio and Sketch heart. The night sky was out and they found a place in the woods to set up camp. "We need some fire wood. Alpharius and Zio can you get wood for the fire?" Sketch Heart asked. The two nodded and went into the forest to find firewood."Alpharius, can I ask you something?" Zio said. "Ask away." Alpharius replied. "Do you trust us because the others are saying you don't trust them." Alpharius was very distrusting of others because of past experiences. "I might in time but for now you are all just allies nothing more." He said as he lifted some branches with magic. Before Zio could say anything the two unicorns heard something near by and investigated it. Alpharius and Zio came to another small clearing and there was a group of cultists with a prisoner. Zio whispered. "What are they doing here?" "Sketch Heart said something about some ponies sulking around,she must have been talking about them,but we need to free that prisoner they have." Alpharius whispered back, and began moving in closer to hear what the cultists were talking about. When Alpharius came closer he listened to them talk while Zio was on over watch. "Why do we need this pegasus, why not just kill him and move on?" One said. "Because this one has no soul he will be useful for our cause." He said to the other one with an angry tone. Zio watched them and waited for an opportunity to sneak in, as the two went into their tent Zio moved in and Alpharius moved in shortly afterward. The prisoner was asleep by the fire, Zio woke him up and untied him. "Were here to get you out of here." The pegasus nodded and followed Zio and Alpharius back to their camp. Chaser saw them "You're back, and I see you brought somepony with you." Zio replied. "There were cultists of the Order and they had him as a captive." The pegasus spoke "Thank you for saving me, but why did you risk your lives to save me?" Alpharius answered. "Those cultists belonged to the order,and they're bad news, what is your name?" The pegasus said. "I'm Gale Mist, and thanks again for saving me." "It was nothing, you were in trouble." Zio said. Chaser pointed behind them. "Uh guys, we have company!" There was a small group of cultists charging in at them. Zio and Alpharius began firing bolts of magic at them while Chaser, Riku, and Gale flew at them to closer. Chaser threw a cultist against a tree,breaking its neck. One of the cultists came at Riku with a dagger, she dodged the swing and disarmed the cultist and stabbed him with the dagger. During the fight there was a shout "For Vect's 4th legion, slaughter them all!" A group of griffons charged in attacking the cultists. In the chaos of the fighting the group ran away into the forest. "What was that all about?" Chaser asked Alpharius. "I have no idea, but we need to keep moving and get as much distance between us and them as possible." Chaser and Riku flew ahead to find a safe place to camp for the night. Alpharius moved up to Gale. "I need to know somethings about you, why did the cultist say you had no soul, Is it true?" Gale replied. "Yes it's true I had my soul taken from me when I was young. I've been trying to get it back ever sense." Alpharius was intrigued by Gales story. "You should come with us and maybe we can get your soul back."Gale thought about the request. "Fine, I'll help you." Gale didn't trust Alpharius or the others but he felt that he owed them for saving him. Alpharius put his hoof out. "It's good to have you on the team." Gale shook it. Chaser and Riku got back. "There is a cave not far from here." Riku said The others nodded and hurried to the cave. The cave entrance was well hidden for it's large size. Alpharius made sure everyone was in the cave, as they were entering he noticed Zio was limping. Sketch Heart casted a barrier to protect the entrance. Zio laid down and Alpharius looked at his injury. "You were cut by a sword, luckily it's not serious." Alpharius had Chaser wrap the gash. Riku said. "We need to get some rest, I want to be out of these wood as soon as possible." "I agree with Riku, something big is happening and we need to stop it."
NightmaresAlpharius and his allies had set up their bedrolls to get some rest. “You should get some rest Alpharius, you need it badly. So do you Gale you've been through a lot.” Chaser said. Gale nodded and found a place to sleep by the fire.”I'll be fine Chaser, you don't need to worry about me.” Alpharius said still looking at the fire. He hadn't slept in two days, and couldn't even if he wanted to there was too much on Alpharius' mind. Chaser knew He was not fine in anyway, he was concerned for Alpharius. “Just get some rest, I'll keep watch.” Alpharius knew that Chaser wasn't going to take no for an answer, he went to his pack and grabbed his bedroll, as he was taking it out a small photograph fell out onto the floor. Alpharius quickly picked it up but he was noticed by Riku and Zio. “Whats that Alpharius?” Zio asked. “It's nothing important.” “It seems pretty important to you Alpharius.” Said Riku. “Yes to me it's important, nobody else,lets get some sleep” Alpharius said as he laid on his bed roll. The others nodded and went to sleep, Alpharius stared at the cave ceiling in thought why did the Order want a pegasus with no soul? Who was Vect's 4th legion, what was their gain all of this? Alpharius left the cave and went for a walk in the forest. Alpharius felt at ease and calm in the night sky. He always felt better when he could see the stars. While gazing up at the stars and bright moonlight he walked to a pond with some ruins. The pond and the surrounding meadow felt odd to him. Alpharius looked at the pond, he stared at his reflection, He then saw his sisters reflection next to him. Alpharius quickly looked back up but nothing was there, he turned around and saw a pony standing in front of him. As he was about to speak he feels something grab him and pull him into the pond. He hears his sisters voice. “Come drown with me.” Alpharius Thrashed trying to get out, as he got to the surface he saw a large dragon flying away. Then he was pulled back down. Alpharius began loosing consciousness, then he felt something grab his hoof and pull him out as he hit the surface everything went black. Alpharius was in darkness hearing voices.”Hello Alpharius...” The voice said with a demoralizing tone. “Who are you where am I?” Alpharius asked, the voice spoke back. “Your location doesn't matter at the moment. I am Níðhöggr.” The name stung as Alpharius heard it.“I'm giving you the chance to join me.” the voice laughed. “No, I know what you are and what you do.” Alpharius said with his moral on the verge of breaking. “I knew you going to say that, I will give a taste of what I can give you.” Alpharius saw a faint glow in the darkness, as it moved closer he saw it was an amulet. The amulet wrapped around his neck and began to cause agonizing pain everywhere in his body. Alpharius was screaming in torment as the energy coursed through his body. “We will meet again, I promise you...” The voice faded, then he heard another one. “Alpharius...Alpharius.” His eyes shot open and Gale was pounding on his chest. Alpharius sat up and coughed up water and began breathing again. “Alpharius! What happened to you?” Gale said. “I..I don't know Gale. If I told you, you wouldn't believe me, how did yo-” Before Alpharius could finish talking Gale interrupted him. “Where did you get that amulet?” He looked down and there was and amulet. Alpharius tried to take it off but it wouldn't come off. “I found it... Don't worry about it.” Gale glared at him. “I will worry about it, this place is a temple of Sylara! She ruined my life, and I find you here drowning in the pond and you have an amulet that you never had before!”Alpharius began walking back to the cave “Lets get back to the cave we can talk there.” Gale stopped him. “No, you start talking now.” Alpharius looked back at him. “Does this look like an amulet of Sylara? It has ancient dragon writing on it. This is much older than Sylara.” Gale quieted down and followed Alpharius back to the cave. “You might want to cover up that amulet Alpharius.” Gale said. Alpharius nodded in agreement. When the two got back to the cave Alpharius put on a his jacket to hide the amulet from view and the two laid on there bedrolls to get some sleep for the long walk ahead. Later that night Chaser heard a sound and woke up. He looked around, the cave was empty and he was all alone. Chaser got up and went to towards the exit but the cave seemed to go on forever. He began to get scared. “What is going on?” he said. A voice spoke back “Do not be afraid, I will not harm you.” The voice said in a soothing tone. Chaser turned around and an elegant silver dragon was looking at him. She snapped her fingers and there was a bright flash, in the dragons place was a unicorn. “My name is Adalinda, you must listen to me. Your friend is in grave danger, A dark and powerful Dracolich named Níðhöggr is going to corrupt him and use him to start another war in Equestria.” Chaser moved up to her. “What do you mean by another?” Adalinda responded. “Him and his followers are the ones responsible for corrupting Luna.” Chaser nodded. “What do I need to do?”He asked “You must go to Canterlot and go to the Star Dragon shrine in the castle gardens, I will watch over you and your friends.” She said, as she began to vanish. Chaser than felt a dull pain in his ribs and he woke up. “Wake up Chaser, were leaving.” Riku said with an irritated look on her face, Chaser looked around. “Yeah, sorry...” He stood up and packed his things and put on his pack. Alpharius was at the entrance of the cave. “I hope you all god enough rest, we won't be stopping until we get to the Unicorn Range.” The others nodded and were ready. “Sketch Heart, ready to lead the way.” Sketch Heart smiled and went outside. “Follow me everypony.” The others followed her out into the cold morning. The group got out of the forest and began hiking up the mountains. As they made their way to the top Zio stopped them. “Look at the view, it's absolutely stunning.” The group looked around, they could see Canterlot, Cloudsdale,and the forests, and the small dot that was Ponyville. “Lets keep moving were almost there, then we can relax for a bit.” Alpharius told the others. “I agree with Alpharius, we don't want to be out here when it gets dark.” Said Sketch Heart, she began leading them towards the summit of the mountain. When they reached the top there was a gruesome aftermath of a battle. Sketch Heart hid behind the others. “What the hell happened her?” Gale said. Alpharius and Chaser inspected the bodies. “They look like royal guard renegades. Look at the defiled badges and emblems.” Alpharius saw that they had the symbol of the order painted on their armor. “Alpharius the other ones look like they are from Vect's 4th.” “I guess they tried to ambush us up here, but what killed them?” Gale asked. “It looks like wild life of some kind finished off who ever was left.” Zio said, the group quickly left the place and began going down the mountain. By the time Alpharius and the others got to the bottom of the mountain and onto the road, the sun was beginning to set. “I see some lights further down the road lets go!” Chaser and Riku flew towards the town, the other were barely able to keep up. Alpharius and the others got to the town. They went to an inn when they got to the desk when the attendant turned around Chaser recognized the white unicorn and felt uneasy.”Can I help you?” She said looking at Alpharius. “We would like a room for the night.” He placed a silver coin that had a blue tint to it. “This will be enough to cover us.” Her eyes widened. “Yes this is more than enough. I'll take you to your room.” She lead them to the nicest room available.
