Not Your Average HiE Story

by Aegis Steelshield

Rating: teen
Tags: Slice of Life, Alternate Universe, Human, Main 6, Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Spike, Cutie Mark Crusaders, Other
Length: 21846

A young man's life changes when he's brought to Equestria in a fiery Explosion

Fluttershy is out collecting herbs for medicine when she's sidetracked by a massive explosion that drags a superhero into Equestria.

Published 2013-04-25 08:30:02 UTC
Last updated 2018-08-14 14:40:21 UTC

1 Findings

The cream colored pegasus was having a good day. She had left her cottage only an hour or two ago to collect medicinal herbs, and her saddle bags where almost full. She let her mind wander as she trotted back to the worn out path that led back to her furry friends. She hoped Angel Bunny would get over his cold soon.

She came to this grove often. It always seemed to have whatever she needed. And she liked the quiet. It was so peaceful. Her sanctuary.

She was torn out of her thoughts when an explosion ripped apart the sky, almost a mile above her. She bolted into a small bush, before looking up. What she saw amazed her...

* * * * *

Pain... All I felt was pain. Then I noticed the smell, one I've gotten very use to. Iron. Or was it copper? So hard... so hard to think...

Holy shit, am I bleeding? And... Falling?

Oh shit! I tried to focus, reaching deep inside myself for that telltale feeling of power. I couldn't. I just couldn't. Not with these injuries. I was trying to remember what they were from when I hit the ground.

* * * * *

After a few seconds of startled silence, Fluttershy rushed to the side of the crater.

"Oh no, oh no, oh no, that poor animal..." She panted as she ran to the bottom, "Please please please be okay..." She nearly fainted as she saw the mangled, bloody corpse. Then she noticed it was breathing. "Oh Celestia... I'll get help! Just... Please don't die..." She flew back out of the crater, full speed. She knew she couldn't drag the thing out, but maybe, just maybe, with somepony's help... She wondered which was closer, Sweet Apple Acres, or Ponyville? After a brief hesitation, she flew to call in a favor from Big McIntosh.

* * * * *

"Thanks... Applejack, was it?" the pegasus asked as she and the orange mare pulled on a cart loaded with the animal. She was exhausted from running and pulling, but she was almost home.

"It wasn't a bother sugarcube. Celestia knows you've helped us plenty with our sick." The mare stopped for a moment to adjust the hat covering her blond ponytail. And to let the tired pegasus rest, but she didn't need to know that. And to think she thought that her day would be boring with Mac' and 'Bloom watching the stand. "What exactly is that?" she asked, indicating the cart's cargo, "I ain't ever seen nothin' like it."

"I... I haven't either. I just hope I can help the poor thing."

"I'm sure you can, sugarcube," She unhitched herself as they arrived, "Do you need help getting it inside?"

"Thanks, but I'll manage."

* * * * *

I woke up screaming, half in pain, half utter fury at whatever was causing the pain.

I'm not a very nice person when I'm angry. And whatever it was, it was a danger. After all, how often do you find something that can pierce bullet proof skin that isn't evil?

There was a gasp next to me. As I turned, time slowed down around me. To be more correct, time stayed the same. My brain just sped up, giving the impression of time slowing down.

It... It was a pony. Wow. Finally lost it huh? Wondered when I would. Maybe I was still dreaming.

It was holding a tray of some sort. Was. Guess dropped it when I woke up. I could see a blur in the doorway, but I wasn't sure what it was. I jumped off the bed I was on, and in a single, powerful leap, exited the open window stage left.

And then I ran like hell.

* * * * *

The rainbow-maned pegasus was in Fluttershy's room in an instant, yelling, "Are you okay? What happened? Why... Why are you grinning like a filly on Hearth Warming's Eve?"

"I-It woke up. After weeks of being afraid it wouldn't, it finally woke up, Rainbow." The shy mare's grin faded as she focused on the empty bed, "Where'd it go?"

Rainbow Dash went to the window and started. It was well over 150 feet away. "It's-it's heading to the forest!" She screamed throwing herself out the window at top speed. She was gaining on it. Quickly. It looked over it's shoulder for an instant. Their eyes met. Then it smashed through the tree line, and Rainbow jerked to a stop so she wouldn't hurt herself.

* * * * *

Wow, that one's fast. Good thing I had a few seconds lead. I jerk to a stop for a moment to take stock of my situation.

I was in a small forest clearing surrounded by all sorts of flowers. I had a bad gut feeling about those blue ones.

I was covered in bandages from head to toe. Everywhere. Even my naughty bits. Somehow, that was the creepiest part of everything. And I looked like I just went a few rounds with a freight train. And that was before I smashed into a tree at a few hundred miles per hour.

I ran my hand over the reopened wounds on my shoulder. It hurt like hel-

My mask! I reached up for my face, but it was covered in bandages.

"No no no nononononono..." They saw my face. They saw my face! This was my biggest mess up since that time my pants fell down in a fight with bank robbers. On live TV. And that's pretty hard to top.

I hear a voice above me as I realize I'm still less than fifty feet from the forest edge.

"I hear it over here! It talked!"

And for the second time today, I ran like hell.

Author's Note

Hmm. I wonder what in Celestia's name is happening in our favorite little town.

Do you think I've done disorientation okay?

Wow, I've really been on a super hero fix lately. Ex-Heroes, Sidekicks, Dull Boy, and now my own fanfiction.

Comments, thumbs, and the like anyone?

The start of the chapter takes place a few weeks before season 1 begins.

2 Heroism

I've been in the forest for who knows how many days. four, maybe five? I couldn't quite tell because of the forest canopy.

At least my identity was still safe. If they did take a look at me when I was out, all they saw was a mass of cuts, scars, and blood. I hope.

But I couldn't dwell on it. I was being followed by something here. I'd outrun it if I wasn't sure that would reopen more of my various injuries. I'm amazed that I can walk at all. Whatever it was, it was big. I don't think it's smart either, because it wasn't doing much to hide itself.

With a roar a strange winged lion crashed out into the clearing.

With a roar I charged it.

* * * * *

"Okay girls, we're not trying to scare it. We just want to make sure it gets any medical attention it needs," the purple unicorn known as Twilight Sparkle said to her assembled friends.

"He. It's a boy." said the cream colored Element of Kindness.

"How can you be certain? It was unconscious until it fled." Rarity fanned herself, "I wish we could of waited for a cooler day for this dears, this heat is dreadful."

"This was the only day I didn't have chores, Rare. And a lil' heat won't kill ya." The orange mare adjusted her saddlebags, "And how are you sure, 'Shy?"

The pegasus blushed and looked to the ground. "Um... I-I took off his clothes so I could put the bandages on him."

After a few seconds of silence, she looked to her friends. "What? Bandages don't put themselves on."

* * * * *

The... Thing ran off. Okay, it limped off, whimpering. Now, I'm not mean to animals, but I have no qualms about hunting it down for food. It's lucky I'm not hungry. I totally didn't let it go because I was bleeding badly. No way.

I readjusted the bandages on my shoulder, and checked to see if my face was still covered. Then I started to head to a different clearing, closer to the edge of the forest. I was in no mood to get attacked again today.

* * * * *

The search yesterday went badly from the start. They got lost almost immediately and lost a good portion of their food, canceling their plans to camp out. Not to mention Rarity was terrified of most of Fluttershy's forest friends. To be fair, they were rather big.

She was back in her clearing when she heard the beating of wings above her. A glance up and she confirmed that Rainbow's bully of a friend, Gilda, was landing. Fluttershy tried to hide behind her mane, but it was useless.

"Hey Fluttercry! Still afraid of your own shadow? Pathetic. You're a disgrace, dofus. How'd you learn to fly? From an Earth Pony?" The mare lowered herself as Gilda insulted everything about her, hoping she would leave.

Gilda had pulled back her clawed fist, when the voice spoke out.

* * * * *

"Leave her alone."

Great opening. The... Griffon? Wow, this place has everything. Well, they both turned to face me, and their eyes bulged. Must be the bloodiness that has defined my fashion sense lately.

"Wh-Why don't you make me?"

Big mistake. I used one hand to lift up a rock that barely fit, their eyes following it the whole way. Then I crushed it into gravel.

"Would you like to rephrase that?"

* * * * *

His voice was like gravel and radio static.

'He probably hurt his throat out there...' Fluttershy thought, 'I hope that he'll let me at least change his bandages. Maybe if I asked nicely.'

Her head turned as Gilda squawked and flew off. When she turned back, only seconds later, her savior was gone.

3 Meeting

Applejack wished Gilda hadn't flown off yesterday. She had wanted to teach the griffon a lesson about bullies. They always get what's coming to them. She just wish she'd been there for her friend instead of... Whatever that creature was.

She did admit that crushing a rock into gravel was pretty cool, though.

As she walked through her family's orchard, she started planning her trip to the forest. 'After all, I can search it faster than anypony else,' She thought, 'I mean, their hearts are in the right place, but woodsponies, they ain't.' She reached the old clubhouse she and her brother used as kids, and checked her supplies.

She had enough for three days. With a grunt, she started trotting down the path.

* * * * *

Applebloom watched her sister from thirty feet away. She whispered to herself, "Maybe I can get my cutie mark for finding that animal... Or maybe taking care of it, or or as a woodspony!" She wondered what her cutie mark would look like as she started down the path.

* * * * *

What is it with these things and trying to follow me? You'd think after a day and half, she'd go home. I guess after saving the cream one, someone either wanted to thank me, or kill me. Fat chance of either.

Not to mention she herself was being followed.

I dashed and leapt from tree to tree, deciding long ago not to leave footprints. Even with my faster than normal healing, I was still too injured to run more than half speed. I just hope I get better soon. And that they left before they got hurt.

* * * * *

Applejack knew the area they were in. She had come here often as a filly, usually with her Pa. She knew that she'd hit a clearing soon, and she decided to make camp for the night.

'This thing's playing games with me,' the farmer thought, 'But it's okay. It has to stop to eat sometime. I just hope it don't eat me.'

She had reached the clearing. The only thing growing for 20 feet was grass, and she smiled as her eyes fell on the tower of rocks that her and her father camped by. She heard a twig snap behind her and spun ready to fight, before she saw who it was.

"Sis? I'm hungry..."

* * * * *

Sisters? Guess that rules out one being out to kill the other. I think.

They've been arguing ever since the smaller one ate, over two hours ago. The big one had a fire, partially hidden by the rock tower. Meanwhile, I was eating apples in my tree, almost a dozen feet above them. I caught a bit of their argument, but tuned the rest out.

"Why are you out here, Applebloom? What made you think this was a good idea?"

"I-I jus... just wanted my cutie... my cutie mark..." The younger one was crying so hard, she could barely speak.

I know that she was saying something about wild animals and danger, but I wasn't listening to her. I was listening for the wild animals. And danger, but mostly just the animals.

I watched them until the moon rose to it's highest point. The older sister had given up her sleeping roll for the small one. As the older one repositioned against the rocks again, I slipped closer to her for a better watchpoint.

"Beautiful night, isn't it?"

I froze.

"I know you're there. I can smell your breath. And if you were anything else, you'd be making more noise."

Under my bandages, I smiled. "So, you trying to say my breath sinks? Sticks and stones may break my bones, but talking ponies only mildly freak me out."

That's classic me. Ever the charmer.

She glared in my direction before saying, "You're real funny, you know. You show up out of nowhere, injured and almost dead, and disappear when you wake up. And then, you show up to help somepony, before vanishing again!"

The little one stirred, and she lowered her voice, "Just what game are you playing at?"

I wasn't sure whether or not she could see me form where I was crouched, but I move to the other side anyway. "That's just the way I work. I strike from shadows, to serve the light." Totally ripped off, but hey? If it works.

Her eyes shifted to where I was hiding now. "Don't give me that. You should at least get treated. Fluttershy wants to help you."

With a huff, I skulk off to the treeline, calling back to her, "You can sleep. I'll keep watch."

Author's Note

Hmm... Who is this hero?

If any artistic readers decide to draw a cover for this, I'd be very grateful. I'm afraid that I can't pay you though. Sorry.

4 Introductions

Applejack awoke with a groan, shifting so that she could see the campsite. Her little sister was still sleeping peacefully on Applejack's bedroll. As she stretched, she noticed that one of the food bags she and her sister had emptied was filled with berries.

She checked the berries to see if they were poisonous before waking her sister for breakfast.

"Berries? We didn't pack no berries," Applebloom groaned as she wiped the sleep from her eyes, "Did you leave me to go berry picking like last time?"

Applejack debated what she should tell her sister, and decided that honesty was the best policy.

"The thing that me and the girls were looking for probably left them for us."

Applebloom gasped, before frowning, "It was here! And you didn't wake me up? I wanted to see it!"

"Sorry 'Bloom, I was just thinking about how you need to sleep more than you need to meet a possibly dangerous animal."

Applebloom's response was cut short by a nearby roar.

* * * * *

Oh shit. If that's what I think it is, I'm going to be pissed.

At least the older one (I should really get their names) is thinking of her sisters safety. She hid her behind her own body right before the one-fanged winged lion charged into the clearing.

* * * * *

Applejack whispered to her sister to run while she bought time.

"But... But sis..."

"Just do it! I'll be damned if you get hurt!"

She ran at it to draw it's attention, but it just batted her into the tower of rocks. As the top one tipped and started to fall over her, Applejack regretted not being able to save her sister.

* * * * *

I caught the boulder just before it turned the pony into a pancake. The lion thing looked frightened, well as frightened as a beast can anyway.

The pony's little sister gasped when she first saw me, and I'd imagine that if the orange one didn't just narrowly avoid death, she would too.

I mean, how often do you get rescued by a naked man covered from head to toe in bloody bandages?

I let out a mighty cry before spinning, building the momentum I'd need for this trick.

* * * * *

'He threw the rock,' the older Apple sister thought, 'He just threw the rock at the manitcore. And it sent it flying.' She noticed the pained look on his face before he hid it and turned to them.

* * * * *

"Run. I'll fight it. Buy you time." I try to keep the pain out of my voice, but I'm not sure it worked. Between launching myself thirty feet, catching the rock, and throwing it, I must of reopened all the lacerations on my back and shoulders. It must look horrible.

It takes her a few seconds, but the pony nods before grabbing her sister and running (galloping?) as fast as she can.

At her current speed, it'd take an hour to reach the nearest farm, where I got those apples. I breifly wonder whether or not she'll turn back afterword, maybe from some sense of duty to see if I'm okay, but I push it out of my head when my foe charges back into the clearing.

"I should give you a name," I muse to myself out loud, "Something fitting. Pansy, perhaps?" It doesn't understand the words, but I think Pansy knows I'm insulting it.

Pansy charges at me, and I duck under it's paw, ignoring the pain racking my body. I follow up with a strong jab to it's ribs, and feel something crack beneath the knuckles.

Unfortunately, it doesn't slow it down at all.

I avoid the next few swings, before grabbing it's paw. I swing it around a bit and throw it into a tree, before my side explodes into pain. I really need to heal before I try any more of this flashy shit.

As I begin to pant, Pansy takes to the sky. I leap up and kick it in the face. When I land, I start to see spots. It lands a lucky strike, and I hit the ground. It grabs my arm in it's mouth, and I feel it's teeth sink into my ripped apart flesh, and I scream. Then I drive my other fist into it's head, and the damn thing goes flying off to the side.

We both drag ourselves onto our feet, the scent the blood driving it, a desire to protect driving me. I decide to risk further injury to end this quickly, and charge the thing at speeds close to 300 mph. I send it flying across the forest before I pass out.

* * * * *

Fluttershy leaned away from the unconscious hero who had saved her friend and Applebloom, admiring her work. She had cleaned and changed most of the bandages in the little time since Applejack showed up at her cottage, exhausted and begging for help, and when they went to her campsite to find him near death again. All that was left was the face.

As soon as she touched his neck, his eyes flew open and his hand snapped out, nearly crushing her hoof.

"Don't touch that." He slowly released his grip on her.

"The bandages are dirty, they need changed."

"Then I'll do it," he said, taking the bandages, "Alone."

Fluttershy nodded, and went downstairs to tell her assorted friends about him waking up.

* * * * *

I'm amazed that she left so easily. I finish with my new mask before sitting up.

I immediately wish I hadn't. I started seeing spots again, and I knew I wasn't going anywhere for a few days. I could hear them outside of the door, whispering. Then the cream one opened it, and came in, signalling to the others to stay put.

"We aren't going to hurt you. We want to help, okay? But for that, you need to stay there," she said softly, approaching slowly, "I'd like to check out your throat, if you're okay with that..." The last part I could barely hear. I was guessing she was Fluttershy.

"I'm Fluttershy, by the way." She said as I opened my mouth for her, "This is my cottage outside of the Everfree. That's the forest you were in." She thought for a moment. "If I prescribe you lozenges for your throat, will you take them?"

* * * * *

I agree to take medicine, and the rest of them introduce themselves. The one I saved was named Applejack, her sister (who was sent back home) was Applebloom, the fast blue flying one was named Rainbow Dash, the white horned one was named Rarity, and this purple one who also had a horn kept looking at me funny was named Twilight Sparkle. And apparently they also had a friend named Pinkie Pie who was busy planing me a "Welcome to Equestria/Thank You for Saving my Friends" party. I almost gagged.

Finally I spoke up, "You. Purple one. You keep glancing at me, then looking away. Why?"

She panicked for a moment, before gulping. Then she started sweating, "I... I swear it was an accident. I didn't know what the spell did. It-it was suppose to teleport an item to another universe, not bring someone into ours!" She panics some more and starts begging for me to forgive her. This... This is too surreal. I must be dreaming. I must be.

* * * * *

"Well," said Applejack after the man accepted Twilight's apology, "You know our names, so why don't you tell us yours?"

She was the only one who noticed the brief instant of confusion, followed by fear on his face before he hid it behind a smirk.

"They call me Nighthawk."

Author's Note

Wanna know something funny? A few months ago, when I first had this idea, it took me a week to come up with a decent name that I really liked. The next day, I found out it was the name of a B-List Marvel super villain.

For the record, Nighthawk's powers are speed, strength, invulnerably, a faster brain to go with the speed, and he can levitate for a few seconds to slow his fall. Remember his first scene? Oh, and he can heal from crippling injuries in a few weeks.

Four chapters in four days. That's a record for me.

5 Questions

I woke up with Fluttershy curled up next to me, and thought back to the previous night. After we swapped names with each other, Fluttershy led her friends outside so I could rest, and I tried unsuccessfully to climb out of her window.

Let's just say that she wasn't pleased with me after that.

She had wanted me to sleep in what I presume is her bed, but I didn't really want to impose. Hence, the attempted break out. We ended up settling on a compromise, and shared the bed. I slowly tried to shift away from her.

* * * * *

Fluttershy slowly opened her eyes when she felt movement, she started when she saw the man and thought, 'I'm in bed with a stallion, and he didn't even buy me dinner first.' She blushed at her thought and noticed his eyes where open.

"This is awkward." At least his voice sounded a bit better.

"It... it isn't what it looks like."

"And what does it look like?"

"Uh... Um... Want some breakfast? I'd like some breakfast. Pancakes sound good to you?"

"You are a saint."

* * * * *

After we ate her heavenly pancakes, one of her friends showed up. It was that Rainbow Dash girl, and she was immediately in my face.

"Don't try anything mister, I've got my eye on you."

I try to explain to her that if I wanted to hurt them, I would of never rescued Applejack and her sister, but she wouldn't listen to reason and logic. I think I'm beginning to like her.

So I ended up listening to variations of the same threat until I realized that I didn't even know what day it was.

"I swear that if-"

"What day is it?" The look on her face when I cut her off was adorable.

"It's Wednesday, the 16th of November, in the year 997 Sol." Fluttershy supplied, while trying to keep her friend from attacking me.

Wednesday? November? I commend them on the year, but whoever put me in this dream needs to be more creative.

"Sol? Latin for sun?" I raise my eyebrow at them, but I'm not sure they see it through the bandage.

"It's... it's called Old Canterlot here. But yes, it means sun."

"And it's only year 997?"

"We start from one every thousand years, and name the era after an important event from the closing years of the last era." This had came from Rainbow Dash, surprisingly. I didn't take her as the scholarly type.

"Why is this one sun?"

"Because a three years before the end of the last era, Princess Luna was corrupted by jealousy and Princess Celestia had to banish her to the moon," Came a voice from the open window by the door, "Rainbow, you're not harassing Nighthawk, are you?"

"No! I mean, no, of course not." Her eyes shifted back and forth as Fluttershy let another of her friends in.

"Hello Ms. Sparkle." I saw in the most polite voice, "Try any new spells today?"

It's a low blow, I know. And in my defense, I felt bad about it, but I was to angry to really care. That is, until I saw her start to cry.

"I'm sorry okay? I... I had no way of knowing. I messed up." She took a deep breath, before continuing, "But you have every right to be angry, and I have no right to cry." She sat down across from me, and I saw glares from both of her friends.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Sparkle. That was uncalled for."

"Call me Twilight, please. Can I ask a few questions?" I nod an affirmative, and she begins, "What are you?"

"Human. I think. You?"

"An unicorn. You... think?"

"Humans don't have powers. Do ponies?"

"Oh. No, we don't. Are... Are you... Dangerous? Dangerous to be around, I mean."

"No. Are you?"

"Are you a bad guy?"

"No."

"Then no. What's your world like?"

"Doubleplus ungood."

"I loved that book. Are you being vague on purpose?"

"Always."

She smiled at me and I couldn't help but smile back. There was another knock, this time from the front of the house.

"How many of your friends are coming today?" I turned to Fluttershy.

"Um... They probably just want to get to know you." She said before she let them in.

I was almost immediately tackled by two small ones, Applebloom and one I hadn't meet.

Applebloom was hugging me, nearly shouting, "ThankyouthankyouthankyouIwassoscaredbutthenyousavedmeandmysis..."

Now, I'm not sure, but I think she was thanking me. Thankfully, the other was much calmer.

"Hi, I'm Sweetie Belle. Who are you?"

"Nighthawk. Charmed."

"Are you a super hero?"

"You know, I think I am."

Author's Note

Sorry for the wait and the wall of dialog, but I couldn't think of any other way to do this.

6 Suprise

"Aaaawwww, you broke the chapter naming scheme for little old me!" Came a cheerful voice from just behind me.

I panicked, and crushed the glass of water Rarity had given me after pulling the two kids (fillies?) off of me. In an instant, glass and water where everywhere. In less than an instant, purple-tinted translucent shields formed around everyone just as Twilight's horn began to glow. Off to the side, I saw Rarity's horn glow light blue, and each shard of glass followed suite.

Needless to say, I was impressed.

"Pinkie," sighed Twilight, "What have we said about sneaking up on possibly dangerous beings?"

"That it could end smashed-cupcake bad, so I shouldn't do it, oh hai Nighthawk, I've got a party for you, but Twilight says to wait for the Mayor to meet you, but then I said that meeting at a party was funner, but she said you might scare ponies, and I said that wasn't very fun, and-"

"He gets it, Pinkie." She sighed again before the glass glowed purple and the shields faded away, "And thanks Rarity for thinking quickly."

"Think nothing of it deary."

As I watched, the glass reformed, and the water refilled it. She saw my hesitation, and said, "The water's clean." She held up her right hoof. "Scout's honor."

"But you weren't a scout, silly~"

I turned to the party mare, "That was stupid of you."

The ponies around me dropped their jaws, but I continued, "If I was the least bit less controlled, I might of swung on reflex," I rose my voice, "And taken your damn head off!"

My nostrils flared as I turned back, "You know, I'd hate if someone got hurt. Just... Don't do it again."

I paused as I heard sniffling behind me. I felt bad, but I wasn't going to let it show.

"I'MSOSORRYPLEASEFORGIVEME!!!" I lurched forward as I felt hooves wrap around me. The others must of saw my confusion, because they started to snicker. "I'LLBEGOODTHISTIMEISWEAR!" She was practically yelling in my ear.

I swallowed my pride as I turned, "I should be saying sorry. I didn't mean to yell."

Her tears disappeared and she smiled, "Forgiven~" She said as if singing. Definitely dreaming.

"So, you're a super hero?" she asked, as if she didn't know.

"Super strength, speed, invulnerability, I can briefly levitate, and no. I refuse to sign anything."

She opened her mouth, and I cut her off, "I get this a lot."

The next time I tried to cut her off, she shoved her hoof in my mouth. I might of gagged if it didn't taste like cotton candy.

"I wanted to know what happened to your costume."

Fluttershy spoke up for the first time in awhile, "I had to burn it." She froze up as I turned to her, "I-it was soaked in blood! I wanted to fix it but-" I held up my hand.

"It's okay. It was probably damaged beyond fixing. I'll just make a new one when I get the chance."

"I've been meaning to ask about that." Rarity said, "About your fashion, I mean. I can make a new one for you, easily. Think of it as repayment for helping Applejack. Just tell me what you want." She floated over a small notepad with a pencil. Damn that was cool.

I decided to draw it instead. A nice two piece costume, a belt where the two pieces met. I thought for a moment, before adding a cowl off to the side. I passed it back, and saw their astonished looks.

"So I draw fast? It's no big deal."

Author's Note

Birthday update spree!!!!

7 Constellation

Nighthawk was sipping tea and tugging at the bandages he wore when Rarity arrived, levitating a bag. "I'm sorry it took so long, but I've had a lot of orders for Thanksgiving." She sighed as she put her saddlebags down.

"It's not a problem, you treat clothing as an art. And you can't rush an artist."

She giggled, "I'm glad you think of this as an art, because I've taken some artistic liberties with your costume."

"Should I be alarmed?"

"I think you'll like it," she said as the bag levitated to him, "Try it on and tell me."

* * * * *

She added a cape. Not only that, but it was attached to my mask.

Hot damn, I look like Batman without the ears.

I spun around, looking back at my chest. No insignia, surprisingly. All the same, I think it'd look stupid on the nearly black material. As my eyes went south, I saw that my groin was a much lighter gray, before darkening to the same nearly back on my legs. I clenched my fist, feeling the fabric around it. It was firm, but pliable. Kinda like leather. Add my boots, and I could impress even Bruce Wayne.

As I reenter the living room, I wonder if she made it like this on purpose, but don't get to ask as I notice something.

"Why is your hair green?"

"Well..." She giggled sheepishly, "There's this dreadfully boastful magician in town, and I tried to get her to stop insulting others, but... You see how that turned out."

I nod, having had much the same problems as a kid. Only I won.

My smile disappears as she nearly faints, and I'm catching her in an instant.

"Oh... That... That mop you call a beard is absolutely dreadful! You simply must let me shave it!"

I consider dropping her for the briefest of moments before something catches my eye outside Fluttershy's window.

"The hell is that?" I ask, pointing to some blue... Bear-thing.

She gasps and her eyes widened, "That... That's an Ursa! It's attacking Ponyville!"

I drop her as I take off at a dead sprint, my new cape trailing behind me.

* * * * *

Trixe was not having a good day. First off, she didn't make as much as usual with her show. Then, a group of ponies started berating her, the Great And Powerful Trixie! And now two idiot fancolts led an Ursa Major into town, expecting her to defeat it for them. Fucking idiots.

She saw it take a step, and yanked a very lucky mare out from beneath it, seconds before it made a new crater. She yelled something profane at Trixie before running off, and Trixie pulled a colt out of it's path.

Then the damn thing noticed her.

She tried to run as it turned to her, but the Ursa was moving much faster with it's longer strides. She tripped, and closed her eyes, not wanting to see her death.

She opened her eyes with she heard the strange cry.

"Jesus Christ, what does this thing weigh!?"

Author's Note

Hmm. Short. I wanted to pad this out a bit, but thought that this was the best stopping point.

8 Everything is worse with Bears

Saying this thing was heavy is like saying the ocean has a lot of water, in the sense that while technically correct, they fail to convey the sheer sense of magnitude of what you're describing. This thing was at least three times heavier than anything I've ever lifted before, and this was just one leg.

I looked at the blue unicorn I had just saved, and breathed out a single word, "Run." She didn't need to be told twice.

I managed to lift it up another foot, before dropping down to a crouch. Taking advantage of it's temporary imbalance, I threw myself up with all my strength, forcing the thing onto it's back legs.

Unfortunately, I misjudged the speed of it's other front leg, and it swatted me out of the air like an impudent fly.

When I landed outside of town, I nearly broke a boulder in two. A new plan forming, I threw it at the Ursa, and ran. I launched myself back up as it was lowering, landing a solid uppercut. It worked just as planned, and I forced it's head up so that the boulder smashed into it's face with the force of thousands of angry wasps.

Shitshitshit! It's overbalancing! As it falls onto it's back, I try to hold it up, and if not for Twilight's magic, I may of been flattened. But with it, I'm able to throw it onto a relatively clear and open park. I shoot her a thumbs up before taking off towards the park.

As it starts to get back up, I launch myself through the air like a bullet aimed right for it's nose, both fists forward. I hit it with enough force to bring down a skyscraper, and the thing just staggers backward.

This is not going to be fun.

* * * * *

Fluttershy was helping her friend Rarity up. "So, he just dropped you?"

She nodded, and gasped out, "And he ran off to fight an Ursa! Fluttershy, you have to help him! He's going to get killed!"

Fluttershy stared at her for a moment, unable to comprehend why someone would want to fight an Ursa. But then she flew off to see what she could do to help.

* * * * *

I narrowly avoided getting squashed as I moved a young fat colt and his lanky friend out of the Ursa's path.

"Get out of here!" I shout at them, before I hear a stampede. As I turn, I see it's not a stampede, but rather the nearby ponies stamping their feet in unison, cheering me on. I had to move this fight before someone got hurt.

As I rise to my full height, the Ursa tries to step on me, and I hold up it's foot. Using every bit of strength in my body, I lift the whole thing up, and the next instant, I throw it outside of town. As the ponies try to crowd me, celebrating my "victory", I take off after it.

* * * * *

Fluttershy shrieked in terror as the stunned Ursa landed in front of her, and shrieked again as it was jerked up and over Nighthawk, before being slammed on the ground on the other side of him. He brought it back over him, and it landed in front of Fluttershy before he spun it around several times, and threw it into the Everfree.

Fluttershy galloped to him as he collapsed from strain.

* * * * *

She smacked me across the face, screaming that I was an idiot and that I could of gotten hurt and not to make her worry like that. I mumble out an apology, but honestly? I'd do it again in a heartbeat. She helps me to my feet, and lets me lean on her as we make our way back to town to check out the damage.

When we got there, I was swarmed by a group of very thankful ponies. Not my usual welcome, but I welcomed the change. I saw the blue unicorn and approached her.

"You okay?"

She turned to me, her eyes widening in awe, "You... You saved the Great and Powerful Trixie! Trixie thanks you for your heroism in the face of an Ursa Major."

As she grins sheepishly, Twilight speaks up, "That was an Ursa Minor. A baby one at that."

I almost pass out from exhaustion just thinking of a bigger one, but then I'm dragged by a pink blur to a light brown mare with gray hair.

"Mayor Mare, Nighthawk. Nighthawk, Mayor Mare."

We both wave stunned, before I'm dragged off by the speedy mare back to Twilight, and Pinkie nearly screams with excitement, "He met the Mayor! Let's party!"

* * * * *

For someone on such short notice, she sure knows how to set up a party. I'm wading through a crowd of ponies giving their thanks, when Rainbow Dash nearly crashes into me.

"That! Was! Awesome!" She shouts over the music, her eyes alight with awe.

I rub my shoulder as I respond, "No. That was painful."

She punches my shoulder, "Aw, you're just being modest. How'd it feel, saving everypony?"

"It... it was amazing. The feeling of euphoria as they started cheering. It... It filled me with something. I don't know if I could of lifted the Ursa without it." And it's true, that sense of... of being cheered for, it empowered me. In all my years of being a hero, I'd never felt that. I smiled as a remembered another detail from my forgotten past.

Author's Note

DUN DUN DUN!

I did foreshadow this, a few chapters back when Applejack asked his name. Remember that look of fear and confusion?

10 The Long Awaited Dragonshy Adaption

Fluttershy was feeding her animal friends. To be more exact, she was feeding the ferrets fish. She smiled as they took them, before saying, "I wonder if Nighthawk likes fish... I know he eats some form of meat." She flapped her wings, getting out from under the bridge, and grabbed a few worms off of the ground. She flew to the top of her tree, and threw the worms to her bird friends.

"Gross..." She whispered, trying to get the taste out of her mouth. She blushed as she noticed they were watching her, and flew down to check on Angel. He was happily munching on his carrot.

"Not to fast now Angel Bunny, you don't want to get a tummy ache."

In response, the bunny frowned at her indignantly, and tossed his carrot to the ground.

She smiled, "You really should eat more than that, don't you think?"

Angel hopped away.

She took the carrot into her mouth and spoke around it, "It's not playtime yet." She landed in front of him and set the carrot down, "I know you want to run, but just three more bites." Angel shook his head no. "Two more?" Another no. "One more. Pretty please?" She sighed as Angel kicked away the carrot.

She flew over to him as he started to cough. After a few times of trying to guess what was wrong, Angel pointed a column of smoke flowing from the nearby mountains towards Ponyville.

"Because of the scary cloud of black smoke heading towards Ponyville?" She took the carrot thrown at her head as a yes.

* * * * *

I think I was pissing off Rainbow. I dodged another telegraphed punch, and let one of my own fly, catching her in the shoulder. Because she was using her wings to balance herself in a boxer's stance, this sent her spiraling to the ground.

I used my speed to get close as she hit the ground, intending to check on her. Unfortunately, she thought it was for another attack, and shot out one of her back legs. Now, I imagine that it would of been chest level on a stallion. I, however, am a bit taller. I think I may of cried out as her leg connected in a very, very sensitive place.

"I said no... attacks below... the belt!" I manage to croak out from the fetal position on the ground. She smiled, a blush forming on her cheeks as Applejack's head snapped up to the sky.

"Uh, sugarcube? I think we may have a problem," she said, pointing out the advancing cloud of smoke covering the orchard.

"Well, fuck." I groan out. I get this nasty feeling that today's gonna suck.

* * * * *

Twilight had just told her friends to collect supplies when Nighthawk spoke up.

"Now, let me get this right, the smoke is coming from a full grown dragon, who's trying to take a nap." Nighthawk paused for a moment, and continued after Twilight nodded, "And dragons are almost as powerful as Alicons." Another nod. "And she wants you six to stop it."

"With your help, of course."

"Yeah, let the records show that I think this is a bad idea. Can you see if she'll at least lend us some guards?"

"It'd take at least a day for 'em to get here, sugarcube," Applejack said with a sigh, "We're on our own."

"Alright, why not wait until tomorrow?"

"It'd spread too far," Rainbow said, "It's already messing with wind patterns. Besides, you can bench press an Ursa, you'll be fine."

Nighthawk rubbed his shoulders as phantom pains took hold again, "Yeah, and it's still not healed. This is a bad idea."

"Scaredy cat," Pinkie smiled as she teased, sticking her tongue out.

"It's a little thing called self preservation. Look it up." As the six frowned, Nighthawk sighed. "Look, I know you guys want my help, in case things go bad. And I will be there, but this is going to be very, very bad for our collective health."

Rainbow smiled, and let out a whoop, and Fluttershy looked like she could drop dead from fright at any moment.

"Alright, we'll meet back here in a hour."

As they filed out, Nighthawk stopped Rarity.

"Do you have any fireproof material I can borrow?"

She smiled, "The mask and cape are already fire proof, dear."

* * * * *

I gotta admit, in her makeshift armor, Fluttershy is fucking adorable. Seeing that she was still shaking like a leaf, I spoke up.

"Don't worry, I won't let it hurt you."

She nodded after a moment, and continued, only to freeze up as the door swung shut behind her. Like I said, fucking adorable. I ignored the urge to pose dramatically, and carried 'Shy to Twilight's place.

When I got there, she didn't waste any time.

"Listen up, everypony. I've mapped the fastest route, but we've got to keep up a good pace if we want to make it up the mountain before nightfall."

Fluttershy looked terrified, and whispered, "M-mountain?"

"The dragon's at the top, I presume?" I cut in.

"Looks pretty cold." Applejack added.

Rainbow confirmed, and Rarity showed off her scarf. I couldn't help sighing. This is not going to go well.

* * * * *

We were only at the bottom, and I could already hear it snoring. Fluttershy hid behind Applejack, and I hoped they'd realize her crippling fear soon. Rainbow tried to fly to the top, but Applejack stopped her by biting her tail, pointing out safety in numbers. So we started to climb.

"I hear the only thing that sparkles more than a dragon's scales, are the gems it uses to build it's nest. Oh! If I play my cards right, I may get it to part with a few."

"Welcome to my cave, Rarity. Want a diamond? RAWR!" Pinkie said in what I presume was a dragon impersonation, and everyone but me, Twilight, and Fluttershy giggled. Come to think of it, Fluttershy's been pretty quiet back there.

"Come on Fluttershy." I called back to the bottom. "If I'm going to protect you, you need to be near me."

"It's... it's so steep..."

Rainbow opened her mouth to say something, but I lept down, and grabbed her, before leaping back up, causing Applejack to sigh.

"This isn't working. I'll need the map so I can take her up another way."

"Or I could carry her."

"I'll take her around."

Applejack is not someone you want to argue with, so I sighed, and passed Fluttershy to her. So much for safety in numbers.

* * * * *

It took another hour or two, but they finally made it up. I could almost hear her terror. I briefly wondered what they talked about before I pushed it out of my mind. We walked up to the nearby ravine, and I nearly laughed. They two sides were just a foot apart where we were standing, but Rainbow still put a lot of effort into jumping it, followed by the others. In an effort to get Fluttershy to follow, Pinkie even sang about it. And it would of worked if Twilight hadn't brilliantly told her not to look down.

"Be careful," I said quietly, "This looks unstable."

"The smallest noise might set it off." Another brilliant move, Twilight.

"AVALANCE!!!" Fluttershy shrieked, forcing Applejack to shove her hoof in her mouth. Tasty.

Amazingly, it didn't cause one. However, their sigh of relief did. How does this place work!?

"Instead of waiting for the rocks, why don't you run!" I screamed as we heard rumbling above us.

As they ran, I kept changing speeds to stay close, and knock rocks out of our way. Applejack and Rainbow helped the others when I was preoccupied, and Pinkie had the uncanny ability to not be where rocks were. As we got past the rocks, I saw that a large portion had covered the path ahead.

"I'm... I'm sorry..." Fluttershy panted out.

"It's no problem." Applejack said as me and Twilight tried to find a way over the rocks. Eventually, I just grabbed them one by one, and jumped past the rocks. Much faster. At least we were at the cave now.

As Rainbow cleared out the smoke, I heard Twilight tell Applejack to ready the apples in case it attacked, and I sighed again. As Twilight entered it, she didn't notice that Fluttershy wasn't with her. Serves her right for not noticing 'Shy's fear.

As their attempts to force her in failed, she finally told them she was afraid of dragons.

"But Fluttershy, you have a wonderful talent dealing with all animals," Twilight said softly.

"But not dragons."

"Come'on!" Rainbow called out, "You walked right up to a horrible manticore!"

"Yes, because it wasn't a dragon."

"Spike's a dragon, but you like him." Pinkie added.

"Spike's a dragon?" I leaned in and asked Twilight.

"Yes. I've had him since he was an egg."

"Hey, guys. Leave her alone." I said, stepping towards Fluttershy, "She's terrified."

Twilight agreed with me, and went in by herself, which shocked me. I was even more shocked when she came out a few moments later. I almost wasn't surprised when Rarity wanted to seduce it, and failed miserably. After whatever the hell Pinkie tried failed, I wanted to punch something.

Rainbow beat me to the punch though. I heard her yell "Get out!" and a sneeze. Then all hell broke lose.

The dragon threw her out like a bullet, and I barely caught her. As I looked up, the thing was coming out of it's cave, roaring. It looked at me, and flames flew from it's mouth. I dropped Rainbow, and covered both of us in my cape before I realized convection would kill us. As luck would have it, Rarity must of thought of that. Blue sigils started to glow on the inside, and it felt like I was in an air conditioned office that smelled of lavender.

After at least a full minute, the flames died down, and I threw my self at forward. The dragon reacted quickly, throwing it's wing in front of it's face. I shot past it towards the bottom of the cave, bouncing up, and shot off the top, kicking the back of it's head. Then I used it's own attempt to keep it's head from hitting the ground as a springboard, sending myself into the air. I twisted towards it, and started to levitate when I thought I was in a good position.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Rarity's horn glow, and my cape started billowing in a gentle breeze.

I dropped my voice down a bit, and called out, "I offer you one chance to stop fighting. I sugge-" I was cut off as another jet of flame shot at me, and I cut out the levitation just in time. It was charging before I hit the ground, and I was thrown to the side by it's tail. As it followed up with a stomp, I rolled out of the way, and lept forward, balling my fist.

This must be what it feels like when a normal person punches a brick wall as hard as they can.

As I scream in confused pain, I feel something in my shoulder rip. The dragon swings it's tail again, and I smash my head into the cave's mouth. I try and fail to move my arm as the world fades to black.

* * * * *

Fluttershy screamed as she saw Nighthawk thrown like a doll, and her friends scattered. They tried to put up a fight, but they couldn't do much of anything. She closed her eyes for a moment, and when she opened them, she knew what to do.

"How dare you."

The dragon turned to look at her.

"How dare you!" She screamed as she flew up and landed on it's snout. "Listen up mister! Just because you're big, doesn't mean you get to be a bully! You may have huge teeth, and sharp scales, and snore smoke, and breathe fire, but you do NOT! I repeat, you do NOT! HURT! MY! FRIENDS! You got that?" She said the last bit softly, and the dragon shrank down in fear.

"Well?"

"But that rainbow one kicked me..."

"And I am very sorry about that. But you're bigger than she is, and you should know better. You should also know better than to take a nap where your snoring can become a health hazard to other creatures.

"But I-"

"Don't 'But I' me mister. Now what do you have to say for yourself?"

A few seconds passed.

"I said, 'What do you have to say for yourself?'"

It started to cry. "There, there. You're not a bad dragon, you just made a bad decision. Now go pack your things, you just need to find a new place to sleep, that's all." The dragon went back into the cave as her friends surrounded her, cheering.

* * * * *

I woke up in Fluttershy's cottage, with my arm in a splint. Before I moved much, a cream hoof was on my good arm.

"It's okay. We're back home, and we got the dragon to leave."

"Good." I croak out, before she passes me a glass of water.

"You need to let your arm heal. And I mean it this time." I take note of the seriousness on her face, and decide not to ignore her.

"Yes mom." The blush it gave her was absolutely adorable.

Author's Note

Rejected Ending:

"Don't 'But I' me mister. Now what do you have to say for yourself?"

A few seconds passed.

"Die." And then the dragon ate her.

The End.

So, tell me little brony. Should I have the repeated trauma to his arm cause permanent damage?

11 Oncoming Storm

There was a clash of thunder. A percussion to go with the symphony of destruction that swirled around Nighthawk and his partner. Bones broke with every strike, and a heap of bodies soon surrounded the heroes. A gun flashed once, and Nighthawk caught the bullet with his gloved hand. Smiling devilishly, he grabbed a nearby chunk of metal.

"It might of been a mistake to ambush me with heavy machinery around!" He shot his arm forward, and the improvised weapon smashed through the ceiling, causing a section of the roof to collapse.

As the rain pounded against the ground, a fist caught Nighthawk off guard. He stumbled.

"I've turned a blind eye to your... madness long enough." Vengeance said, his voice was strangely calm. "Tell me Nighthawk, what fucking made you think that was a good idea!? You could of killed th" Nighthawks fist shot out, a solid hit. Vengeance rolled onto his back, before wiping his bloodied mouth off. He slowly stood.

"Do you really think you can take me? You're nothing but a man in a mask."

Vengeance growled, "This mask... Is more than the man beneath it. This mask is an idea. A symbol. And that is more than you will ever be." Vengeance's hand shot out, a small pebble flying. Nighthawk didn't bother trying to dodge. The gas pellet exploded, and Nighthawk stumbled.

"That's one of your problems, you know." Vengeance said, as he leisurely approached. "You put too much faith in your power. You don't think like a fighter. You just run in, and start punching. I don't know how you survived so long." Nighthawk fell to one knee. "Don't worry about the gas, by the way. It's just hospital grade anesthetic. The shit they give to cancer patients. Hard to get, in case you're wondering." Vengeance kicked Nighthawk in the side of the head, knocking him onto the ground. "Why? What did the SS even do to you? Did they kill a friend?"

"I... Have a duty."

"That's complete bullshit. You just like the power don't you? The ability to say 'No more.' That's why you began, isn't it?"

"I made a decision."

"What decision?" There was a touch of sadness to his voice, "You weren't always like this *******. You were a good man. You were a hero."

Tears welled in Nighthawks eyes as he looked into the pooling water. Something caught my eye.

"Why did you change?"

Something was off, but what?

"I suggest leaving when you can."

It hit me like a rock. My costume. I remembered this night. I remember every last detail. My partner... My friend, had tried talking some sense into me. He tried to tell me how close I was to becoming the very thing I fought against. But I wasn't wearing the right costume. Memories flooded in as I stood, the gas no longer having an affect. "You're good REM." I say aloud. "But I wore a different costume, before you trapped me in this dream. It was a stupid mistake to make."

I was alone. Then I heard his voice.

"Everypony makes mistakes. Thou needest not to... To... To feel ashamed."

My ear twitched, trying to pinpoint the sound's location. My fist clenched.

"You made another mistake, you know."

"Hmmm?"

"You forgot about the machinery." I spun, chucking a rather large industrial... Machine that's name I didn't know at a blue... Pony.

* * * * *

Fluttershy awoke to the sound of Nighthawk screaming. Blood was coming out of his nose this time. Acting quickly, she ran to get a cloth to hold against his nose. When she returned, Nighthawk pushed her away.

"N-Nighthawk, stop! I n-need t-"

"Shut up. Shut up right now." He growled out, before standing. He pulled on his costume, and went into Fluttershy's bathroom. He came out in his caped mask. "I'm leaving." He said curtly, before leaping out of the open window.

* * * * *

"I don't know what got him upset." Fluttershy managed through her tears.

"Fluttershy, did he hit you?" Twilight asked softly.

Fluttershy shook her head no.

"Did he?"

"No... He just pushed me away and left..."

"We need to find him. Do you know where he went?"

"No..."

* * * * *

I've been running for hours. It feels... Invigorating. I'm thinking clearer than I have in a while. My arm was still sore, a week after injuring it fighting a fucking dragon. But I remembered a few things now. REM is smart, but he's no genius. He can't create an entire world, only localized areas. But this... Place, this Equestria, it's bigger than anything he's ever made before.

I slow down, in an unfamiliar town. Stalliongrad, by the looks of it. It's not unfeasible that REM is simply making a large area, with few of these... Ponies in it. I check each one as I pass. Their mouths are agape. Must not get blurs like me often. I curse, before speeding up and leaving town. Ponyville, Trottingham, and Stalliongrad, and not a single pony was identical!

They each had a different hairstyle and cutie mark. Each and every single one of them. Rem really outdid himself. I wonder if he used my advanced brain to bolster his power?

Oh fuck. I'm RAM.

I'm kicking his ass.

* * * * *

"Oh, look at the blank flanks." Diamond Tiara sneered, eliciting a giggle from Silver Spoon.

Applebloom and her friends let out a collective sigh. They were on the outskirts of Sweet Apple Acres, enjoying the day off school, but now the resident bullies were intent on ruining their day. They tried to tune them out, they really did.

"No one wants a pegasus that can't fly... That must be why your mommy doesn't love you." Even Silver's mouth was agape from the low blow.

Scootaloo's eyes watered up. She began to shake as Sweetie Belle put a hoof on her side. Diamond opened her mouth to say something else.

"BUCK YOU!" Scootaloo screamed as she let her hoof fly. It slams against Diamond's snout. The bully let out a startled cry as something cracked. Blood trickled out of her nose, as tears began to fall.

"Y-You hit me." Scootaloo didn't state the obvious, instead deciding to tackle her. She punched her again, and brought her hoof up for a third hit, when she herself was tackled. Scootaloo swung blindly, hitting Applebloom.

Diamond got up, covering her now bloody nose. Tears where falling freely from her face. There was a snap in the bushes nearby.

"Ponies make noise. Ponies wake up dog. Ponies make good slaves."

* * * * *

There's a storm cloud over Ponyville. Sometimes, REM astounds me. Quite a big coincidence that a storm brews while I'm pissed. Wasn't even scheduled. I can see that it's a pretty big one, if the townsponies reactions are anything to go by. They're nailing their shutters to their walls, and breaking off loose sticks.

I've made a decision. When I find that son of a bitch, he's dead. I will enjoy ripping his throat out. Right now, I need to find his avatar. In my dreams, I've seen the same blue... Thing. I've not sure what to call it. Winged Unicorn? It doesn't matter.

All I need to do is kill it, and I'll be free. I don't know how to find it, but I'm betting it'll show up sooner or later. REM can't resist rubbing it in his victim's faces.

* * * * *

"I-If w-we ever get out of this... I'll never pick on blank flanks again." Diamond Tiara managed through her sobs as she and the others were lead along. They had long since left the clearing, and the dog leading them had joined with two of it's allies. The Diamond Dogs were short, but very broad. They carried their spears like soldiers.

"Silence ponies! Silence slaves!" The front one turned, and smacked her across the face. The filly froze up, before whispering.

"Y-You h-hit m-m-me." Her body shook, her tears coming with renewed force.

There was a sound, something smacked against a tree. The dogs heads turned, "Come out and fight!"

A rope flew over the shoulders of the dog standing in the front, and pulled taunt. The dog howled, attempting to break the bond, as one of it's allies threw its spear into the bushes where the rope had appeared from.

Applejack ducked under it, and started to run. Two of the dogs followed her. The five fillies took off running in the direction they had come from.

* * * * *

I'm jerked out of my thoughts as Applebloom and her friends crash through the bushes. The first thing I notice is the chains. Then they begin babbling.

I don't waste much time. I rip the chains apart with my bare hands, before practically yelling, "Where?!"

They point me in the direction they came from, and I run at my full speed.

It doesn't take long before I come across the clearing. There are three... Diamond Dogs, and a single pony. Applejack. She's tied, and the things are practically salivating over her. One of them is armed with a spear.

He'll be the first target.

The speed of sound is just over 761 mph. While I can't run that fast, I can get pretty close. I throw myself at top speed, and kick my legs out. This move would kill a human, but this thing isn't human. My foot smashes into it's chest at close to the speed of sound. I feel the bones cracking under my foot, and I'm outright surprised they didn't shatter.

Today's his lucky day.

The kick sent him flying into a tree, and I follow through with another quick kick, this one aimed at the dog immediately behind Applejack. While it doesn't fly as far as the other one, it does get some impressive air.

The last has some good reflexes. I've been here for around two seconds and the son of a bitch, pun intended, is already drawing a knife. My brain slows down to normal speeds.

"Come on Fido. Let's see what you got."

It comes at me, trying to slash across my chest. It's clumsy, and I deflect it without much effort. I disarm the dog, before pushing it away. "Not a bad knife. I'll take it." It comes at me again, and this time I spin, giving it a solid roundhouse kick in the face.

It goes down without so much as a twitch. I hate it when fights are this easy.

Author's Note

Well, it's been a while. How are you guys? Hope you've been well. I've had some troubles, but right now things are good. Thanks for asking.

I live for comments guys. Helps me focus my writing, and get motivated.

12 Love is...

"What you did was just plain scary." Applejack admonished, checking the ropes.

"I saved your life. Who knows what would of happened if I didn't intervene."

I've been tied to this chair for at least a good thirty minutes. I didn't try to escape, if only because I thought REM would show up to rub my capture in my face.

"You could of killed those poor dogs..." Fluttershy said softly, the tiniest spark on anger on her features.

"But I didn't." I counter.

It kinda surprised me, when the first thing Applejack did after I untied her was kicking me in the nads. Gotta say, Applebucking is great for the legs. I must of passed out, because the next thing I remember was being tied to a chair.

"Maybe you didn't kill them, but you sure weren't pulling your punches." Twilight said, entering my field of vision. In her magic, she held a set of papers. "The first dog had it the worst, so we'll talk about him first. His sternum is cracked, and four of his ribs are broken. One of which pierced his lung." Her eyes focus on mine, "A fatal injury, had the doctors not gotten to him in time. What happened to not killing?"

I bite my tongue. I hadn't realized how angry I'd been. "My foot must of slipped, and hit off target."

"Or were you going to fast to aim?"

"It's a possibility."

"Nighthawk, you could of killed them."

"And what would of happened if I didn't step in?"

There was an uneasy silence in the room. Applejack shuddered a bit.

Finally, Twilight spoke, "That doesn't excuse your reckless actions."

"...At least I didn't unleash an Ursa on the town."

"THAT WASN'T MY FAULT!" She yelled, an indignant tone on her voice.

"That's not what I heard."

"Nighthawk, stop antagonizing her." Came Rarity's voice from behind.

"Yeah, don't be a meanie pants!" Pinkie added.

"So I didn't exercise as much control as I should of. He didn't die, did he?"

Twilight gritted her teeth, "Moving on to the second dog. You shattered his collar bone."

"Bone? Don't tell him, he might try to fetch it."

"Is there any chance that you will take this seriously?"

"No, but keep trying if you'd like."

There was a crash of thunder, and everyone jumped.

"Twilight, the storm has started!" Came a voice from upstairs, "Are you coming?"

"In a moment Spike!" She yelled back, before casting her gaze back to me. "Why? Why won't you take this seriously?"

"Why should I? This is a dream, after all." I dropped the bomb, hopping that REM would show his face a little sooner.

She gritted her teeth some more.

"Am I annoying you? So terrible sorry."

"This isn't a joke!" She yells, "Princess Celestia asked me, me of all ponies, to make sure you were safe to be around! And here you are, joking about nearly killing someone!"

There was another crash of thunder as I collected my thoughts. She didn't even blink when I threw my knowledge in her face. She seemed almost... Surprised.

"Oh... Oh Celestia..." She said, her eyes widening, "You... You genuinely believe you're dreaming... Don't you?"

"I've seen the signs. Come out, REM! Don't make me have to find you!"

Twilight and her friends exchanged glaces, before leaving the room.

* * * * *

Twilight took a deep breath, before speaking. "He thinks he's dreaming. He actually thinks he's dreaming."

Rarity sighs, "Why? I mean, he seemed to take it in stride at first."

Fluttershy spoke up, "He's... He's been having strange dreams."

"Do you know anything about them?" Applejack asked.

"Whatever he dreams about, it hurts him. Every morning...Every morning, he wakes up screaming in pain. This morning, he woke up with a nosebleed. I've asked him about them, but he never wants to talk about it."

"How long has he had them?" Twilight asks.

"Ever... Ever since the Ursa incident. The first was that night."

* * * * *

I was busy untying myself when Fluttershy and her friends reentered the room.

"Nighthawk..." She began, "Can you tell us who REM is?"

I sigh, before stating, "Low level super villain. Controls, wait for it, dreams. Real name unknown."

It was Twilight's turn to speak, "What... What makes you think REM put you in a dream?"

I smile at her, causing her ears to flatten.

"For one... You speak English. For two, you're fucking ponies. That talk. Third, this place has monsters from all sorts of religions. And lastly..." I take a deep breath, "The physics here make no sense. Your Princess Celestia shouldn't be moving the sun. In fact, the sun shouldn't be revolving around Equs at all. Equs should be revolving around the sun. The moon is full every night, something that by all means should be impossible. They physics just don't work."

There is another crash of thunder.

"And then there was the fire." I say. "Fire... Fire is a tricky one." I admit. "It feels a certain way to me. Hot, but not dangerous. REM may be smart, but he's no physics professor. He got it wrong."

Moments pass as they stare at me. Although they each seem to want to say something, none of them do.

Then someone outside screams, "Fire! Help!"

I give them the best shit eating grin I can. "Let's see if the bastard gets it right this time."

13 ...a Burning Ring of Fire

Ponies from all across town were gathering outside of the burning house. Twilight, dripping wet from the ongoing storm, cast a spell on me, trying to stop me.

"Please Nighthawk, listen to us! You aren't in a dream!"

As fucking if. I could see the house now. Two stories, windows shattered on the first floor. Flames and smoke were pouring out, and likely filling the second floor. A section of the front wall was already gone. Next to it was a crooked and burnt metal rod. Must of been a faulty lightning rod.

"Please, my Muffin's still inside!"

"No! You're not risking your life on a stupid pastry!"

I looked to the arguing ponies. One was the mailmare I've seen a few times, but I didn't know the other. The mailmare looked to me, and called out. "Please, she's on the second floor! Please!"

I turned and flicked Twilight's horn, causing her spell to flicker out and her to wince. I turned back to the building, and charged through the front door.

The flames burst out through the new opening, consuming all the oxygen they could. It was then I'd realized my mistake.

I screamed like a bitch as the flames consumed me, and burnt the exposed parts of my face. An instant later, I covered my mouth and nose, but it was to late. Smoke was filling the air, so I threw myself down, and gulped down what might be my last breath.

I didn't have much time. The mailmare said her "Muffin" was on the second floor. I knew from Applebloom that she had a daughter. It's not unthinkable that she nicknamed her daughter after something she loves.

I stand, and stumble onward. I know that the there is an opening on the left side of the house, and can only hope the stairs are on the right. As it is, I can't see shit besides the smoke. I trip as I reach what I think is the bottom step, and try to reach for the handrail on reflex.

My glove catches fire, and I yank it off. My skin catches like parchment, and I try to smother the burning hand.

I let out another scream, and force my self up the steps.

I collapse to the ground, and try to suck in some air. I was right, the second floor was covered in smoke, and there was little breathable air.

"Help me, please!" I heard small hooves beating what sounded like glass. A scorch mark started appearing near my face. I leapt up, and tried to make it to the voice. I crashed through a door, and smoke poured into the room.

There was a little girl, panicking, smacking at the windows. She took one look at me, backlit by flames, and screamed for her life. I saw another scorch mark forming above her, and the roof collapsed. Time slowed down as I surged forward, ripping my cape and mask off. I could only think of one thing to protect her. I practically clubbed her, enveloping her in the cape...

And threw her out the closed window.

Glass shattered as a burning support beam fell onto my back.

* * * * *

After Nighthawk burst down the door, and she heard a scream, Twilight could only fear for the worst. Shaking, she matterized several buckets, and used magic to amplify her voice.

"Make two lines! One to the river, and one back! Start passing buckets to the river, and filling them up!"

The effect was immediate, and ponies scrambled to get in the lines. One line was quickly passing the buckets to the river, and the other was getting filled buckets back as fast as possible. Near the front, Ditzy screamed at the stallion trying to hold her away from the house. "My Muffin's in there!"

Twilight thought she heard another scream from inside, but between the raging flames and the storm, couldn't be sure. She turned to her friends, "Applejack, you're the fastest. Get the Weather Team, and tell them we have an inferno on our hooves. Get all the clouds and Pegasai you can. Rarity, Fluttershy, help with the buckets. Pinkie, do whatever you can to help. I need to get Spike."

They scattered to do their tasks as she heard an explosion of glass at the side of the house, and saw a small form falling. Her magic caught it, and jerked it away from the flames. It fell near Ditzy, and the mare screamed, "Muffin!"

She broke away from the stallion, and tore into the fabric. As Twilight got close, she saw that it was Nighthawks fireproof cape.

There was a loud creaking sound, and the rest of the burning building collapsed.

Nighthawk hadn't come out.

Author's Note

Yeah, he lied about being fireproof. More on that soon.

15 ...My Wayward Son

Nighthawk seemed to have passed out again. Twilight leaned in, and pressed her hoof against his neck. The pulse was the strongest it'd been since they'd pulled him out of the fire. She pulled away, and looked him over. The burns were healing fast, all things considered. It seemed, however, Nighthawk would have to deal with quite a bit of scarring.

She had panicked when the building fell. Her magic spiked, and she tore into the still burning ruins, trying to free him. It took Applejack shouting in her ear to get her to stop. The Pegasai had known about the fire, and had been gathering clouds when she got there. They got it all under control rather quickly.

They created a heavy downpour over the fire, and let it work it's magic. After the worse of the flames were put out, the town's unicorns started sifting through the ruins, trying to find Nighthawk. It had taken nearly an hour, and when they did...

It wasn't pretty.

As luck would have it, Doctor Shimmer was helping with the fire. He helped her get Nighthawk to the hospital, and perform several healing spells. It wasn't enough to heal him much, but it was a start. They cut his clothes off, and covered him in bandages. Twilight tried not to look at his eyes. They had practically melted. She didn't think Nighthawk would ever see again.

She had been there when he started screaming. She tried to cast a spell to ease his pain, but nothing was working. So she put him back to sleep. It was the least she could do for him.

It was a week after the fire, when they met Zecora. After the initial misunderstanding, Twilight learned that Zecora was a master of tribal medicines, and told her about Nighthawk. The zebra whipped up a paste she could rub into the burns to ease the pain. After that, Nighthawk stopped screaming, and was able to get some sleep.

She was glad the hospital survived the Parasprite attack that followed.

She turned to the Doctor, "Do you think he'll be able to leave the hospital anytime soon?"

"I can't be sure. Most ponies would never of survived burns like that, let alone heal. I would like to keep him a little longer, maybe put him through Physical Therapy, make sure everything's working before we let him go. Princess Celestia has offered to pay his bills, so money is not a concern."

"Thank you doctor. I just have one last question."

"Yes Miss Sparkle?"

"How have you been feeding him? His skin is too hard to pierce with an IV."

The doctor opened and closed his mouth a few times, "I... I thought you were using magic."

"Pardon?"

"We've tried IVs, even on the burnt sections of skin, but nothing works. Nothing, and yet he hasn't starved. We... We had thought you were using magic to feed him."

There was a groan from the bed as Nighthawk stirred. He croaked out a single work, "Water." His bandaged arm attempted to move towards the stand to his side. Twilight's magic took the cup, and carefully brought it to his cracked lips. She tipped it upwards slowly, turning her gaze back to the Doctor.

"I don't know the spells." She says softly, before placing the glass back on the counter. There was a look of concentration on her face. "But I know somepony who does."

Author's Note

This and the last chapter were going to be one chapter, but I thought the differing tones and styles would read easier if I split them apart. I hope that you guys enjoyed them, but I think I'm going to go back to my normal writing style.

16 Recovery

Waking up hurt. My throat felt like it was on fire, and I was starving. I rolled over, and fell out of my bed. Blinking, I realized I was in a hospital.

"Nurse!" I called out, my voice cracking.

A purple pony darted into the room. It took me a minute to remember her.

"Are you okay?" She asked, trying to help me to my feet.

"Starving, thirsty, and hurting. Passable."

"You... You're hungry?" She seemed confused.

"And thirsty." I reached out to the nightstand, and used it to support my weight. I stopped dead when I saw my arm.

"Well shit."

"You... Seem surprised."

"No one knew that fire could hurt me. Hell, for a while, I didn't know fire could hurt me."

"How did you find out?"

"Dropped my lighter, burnt myself. Water?"

She levitated a cup to me, and I took it. I guzzled it down.

"What's a lighter?"

"It's kinda like a match. You have those, right?"

She nodded, "You said you were hungry?" Her saddlebags glowed purple for a moment, before two apples were lifted out.

I took one, and shoved it in my mouth. She was watching me the whole time.

"Something wrong?" I mumbled through a full mouth.

"I just... Do you know how long you were out?"

"A day, maybe two. Three's pushing it."

"Three weeks, and four days."

I just sorta sat there, looking at her. I shook my head slowly, "You're shitting me."

"I don't know what you mean by that, but I assure you that I'm telling the truth."

I munched on the apple thoughtfully. "I didn't starve?"

"No. I had thought Princess Celestia or Princess Luna had been sustaining you with magic, but if you woke up hungry..." She trails off.

I let out a grunt, "You gonna eat that, or tease me with it?" I point to the other apple. She sighs and tosses it to me.

"Thanks." I take a bite of it.

"So... How did you do it?"

"Do what?" I should stop talking with my mouth full, but dammit, I'm not going to stop eating just to answer some questions.

"You were covered in second and third degree burns when you came in. We pulled you out from beneath a pile of burning rubble. By all means, you should be dead right now."

Thanks for the vote of confidence. "Not sure. How do you do magic?"

"Through complicated formulas and intense training."

Maybe not the best comparison. "The only power I have that I have to..." I threw up my hands, "Activate, is my levitation."

"Really?" She asks in a polite tone. A notepad and pencil float into view, and she scribbles something down. "Can you tell me more?"

I stare at her, before crossing my arms. "No. No I can not."

Her head tilts, "Why not?"

"Because if I'm not dreaming, that means that you pulled me into your universe. I reserve the right to remain silent."

A moment passed, and she lets out a sigh. "Are you really doing this?"

"Doing what?" I ask sweetly.

"Why are you being so difficult? I said I was sorry. I thought we were past this."

"Have you considered that I take great joy in being difficult?" I try to take a step forward, but my leg gives out. Twilight's magic caught me before I hit the ground, and lifted me onto the bed.

"Maybe you should just lay a while."

"Maybe." I let out a grunt.

"So..." She lifted out a thermometer, "Do you mind if I take your temperature?"

I opened up my mouth, and she pressed it against my tongue. After a moment, she pulled it back out.

"I've never taken a human's temperature before, so I don't know what to compare this to."

"I run a higher temp than humans. Another reason I'm not sure if I'm one. I'm usually around one ten. One twenty after a fight."

"One hundred thirty two. Down from last time."

"Might be because I'm healing. Burning up energy, makes sense I'd heat up."

"So you're okay?"

"Hell no. It's hot as fuck in here. I'm sweating, and thirsty. Sooner I heal, the better. Got anymore apples?"

She levitated another out. "Last one."

"I'll make it up to you." I managed between munches, "I might actually answer some questions."

"Do you know how much you can heal?"

"Not really. Didn't seem wise to test it, even ignoring the fact I'm pretty much immune to injury." I glance down to my bandaged body, "Fire notwithstanding."

"Do... Do you know why you haven't starved?"

"Magic?"

She glared at me.

"Well, fuck if I know. I ate regularly at home. Best I can think of is that my stomach heals as it eats itself. Would explain the pain in my gut."

"That... That's disturbing." She shuddered lightly.

I let out a burp.

"And that's disgusting." She sighed.

"So... Did it work?"

Her eyebrow raised.

"I mean, did I save the kid?"

"Dinky? Yes. She was fine, other some minor cuts and bruises. You got her out in time."

"Good. It was a faulty lightning rod."

"How... How do you know?" Her head tilts, "I mean, the fire is still being investigated, and most of the evidence was burnt to ash. The WT grounds the clouds to prevent lightning storms."

"I saw the rod. It was burnt off, and my hair raised when I got close. You ever felt static? Kinda like that, but stronger. Must of gotten hit, and exploded."

"But they ground the clouds. They aren't charged."

"I read in that history book that the Everfree's weather runs on it's own. Winds were pretty high, a charged one might of blown in."

"I've been meaning to ask about that. How do you read so fast?"

I rub the back of my head. "It isn't so much that I'm reading it. I actually just look at each page. Remember when I said I have perfect recall? I just sorta memorize everything, and let it sit in the back of my mind until I need it."

She stared at me for a moment, before saying in a whining voice, "That's not fair."

17 Nurse Sparkle

Twilight wrapped the tape measure around my bicep, and pulled it tight. "You've lost nearly two inches of muscle since the fire."

"Maybe it's from lying around in a hospital."

"I don't think so. You're losing too much, too fast. Remember when you said your stomach might be eating itself? What if it was eating your muscle instead?" She let the tape loosen, and fall. "I... I have a question. I've been meaning to ask, but I never could find the right time. What do humans eat?"

I let out a sigh. I had hoped she wouldn't ask me that. I've been living off of apples, salads, and pancakes since I got to Equestria, all to avoid it.

I tugged at the some of the few bandages left. After I woke up, my healing increased exponentially. My arms and a portion of my leg where still covered in burns, but the rest had healed, for the most part. All I needed was the Doc's okay to leave.

"Human's are omnivores. We eat plants... And meat."

"I thought so." She made a note on her clipboard, "It explains your larger canines. Larger compared to ponies, I mean."

I paused for a moment.

"You aren't going to freak out?"

"You aren't the only omnivore on Equis, silly. You aren't even the only sapient one."

I let out a held breath, before standing. I stretched out my unused muscles. "Don't suppose you know how to prepare it?" I asked.

She made a sickened face, "No offense, but the thought grosses me out."

"You know what I miss? Bacon. I miss bacon." I said, a smile quickly forming on my face. I opened my mouth to say more, but her horn flared, and an apple found its way into my mouth.

She chuckled, before asking, "Where... Where you the only superhero?"

I thought for a moment. I knew of a few costumes, but should I really tell her?

"I knew one or two people who wore costumes, but they didn't have any powers. Knew a supervillain, REM. That's about all."

"What did REM do? I mean, if you're okay telling me. You thought he created us, and thought you were dreaming, so I'm guessing he can create illusions."

"Not quite. REM could put people to sleep, control their dreams. He used them to extract information out of people, and to give them their wildest fantasies. He... He got one of my friends once. Took Vengeance a full day to figure it out, and free himself. I was surprised it took that long."

Twilight took down another few notes. Looking over her shoulder, I saw that they were related to my health, rather than my story.

"Was he dangerous?"

"Of course he was. If you didn't realize that you were dreaming, he could keep you there until you starved to death. Not to mention what could happen to your body before then. I'm glad the Seventeens were too fucking stupid to pull off my mask."

"These Seventeens, where they another supervillain?"

I let out a laugh, "You sure are curious today."

She smiled at me, "Princess Celestia asked me to find out what I could about your world. She said it might help her find a way to get you back home."

My mouth opened and closed a few times. "You... You mean..."

"She's doing all she can. My spell was... Incomplete, but the Princess said it was a good start. She thinks it'll be ready in a year or so."

"I gotta stay here for a year?" My voice quivered a bit.

She reached out for me, hugging me softly. "It's alright. Let it out."

I took a few breaths, getting myself under control.

I get to go home.

18 Working Out the Kinks

With a grunt, I lifted the bar as high as it'd go. My arms burned. Twilight scribbled something on her notepad, as I lowered the bar. "Twenty." I started to raise it again, but my arms shook. I powered through, getting it all the way up again. I exhaled, and lowered the bar. "Twenty one."

"That's enough. Your arms are shaking." Twilight said, using her magic to put the bar in its proper place.

The nurses, doctors and patients around us stared dumbfounded, as Rarity entered. She had a small bundle of clothes in her magic.

"How much did you lift?" She asked gently, using a rag to dab at the sweat covering my face.

"Just over a thousand pounds. Could of gotten more, if my arms weren't injured." I took a drink from a nearby water bottle, and the surrounding ponies stomped their hooves. Guess I'd put on quite the show. "You finish the new costume?"

She set it on the bench next to me, "Yes. I noticed that you asked for a smaller mask."

"I don't need a full face mask anymore." I tilted my head, and held my chin. "Actually, I don't need a mask at all anymore. I just like wearing one." I dragged my hand over my naked face, "I feel naked without one. Exposed. Vulnerable."

Her nose crinkled a bit, as I raised my arms, stretching.

"This place got any punching bags?"

"No." Said one of the doctors, stepping forward. "In fact, we had to borrow most of those weights from a gym on the other side of Ponyville."

I shrugged, "I need to shower before I change, and then rub in more of that Zebra stuff. Twilight?"

"Yes?"

"Bacon."

She made a face, and threw an apple at me.

* * * * *

I rubbed a bit of Zecora's cream into my arm. I'm not one for herbal medicines, but she sure knows her stuff. I should track her down and thank her. Might even pay Pansy a visit. I slip the tank top Rarity made for me over my chest, and pull it down. Twilight's right, I have lost muscle. Rarity made this shirt off of her last measurements, and it's loose. I rub some more onto my leg, and pull on the pair of pants she made. Just like the shirt, it's a bit big on me. I'm glad she made a belt to go with it.

"It looks good." Twilight said from the door, as I put the domino mask over my eyes.

"Thank Rarity. She made it." I replied, making my voice a bit gruffer than usual.

I could practically hear her eyebrow raise, "I meant no offense."

"Nor did I." I clear my throat, and my voice goes back to normal, "I use to talk like that, so they never heard my real voice."

"Another way to protect your identity?"

I nodded, "I think I'm going to go on a run. See how fast I can move." I pulled on a pair of gloves.

"Don't go out too far. The Everfree gets pretty dangerous this time of year. Everything is waking up, and claiming territory."

"Alright. I'll just take a run around Ponyville, then swing by the library. Sound like a plan?"

* * * * *

"My run wasn't bad. I got to a little over a hundred miles per hour. Anything more, and the leg starts burning."

Twilight nodded as the hero spoke. He was reading a rather large science tome.

"Found what you were looking for yet?" She asked.

"No. Are you sure this is the right book? All it's got is a bunch of magic formulas."

"What do you need?"

"Something about gravity. I need to test out a theory." He kept flipping through the pages, but Twilight knew that he was memorizing each and every page. She turned to the bookcase, and gazed at the titles. MagiScience for Fillies, Intermediate MagiScience, Way of the Ley.

"Gravity... Gravity... Gravity... I can't find it in science, or in magic."

"Check the Earth Magic section. Heard a folk tale about a Earth Pony using magnetic fields to fly."

"And you believed it?" Twilight scoffed at the mere notion.

Nighthawks eyes peered up from the book.

"I didn't believe in other universes, or in talking ponies."

"Point taken. You said it was Earth Pony magic?"

* * * * *

"Eureka!" I exclaimed, making Twilight jump.

"Found it?"

"Yes. Equis is bigger than Earth. A lot bigger. In fact, it's nearly two times the size."

"And you needed to know this why?"

I rested my head on one of my fists, my eyes still scanning the pages as I flipped through. "Because the mass of a planet has a direct effect on it's gravitational pull, as does it's density. Equis is not only bigger than Earth, but it's also more dense. That's why I've been having trouble levitating."

"Because you're use to the weaker gravity?"

"Yeah. Don't get me wrong, it was hard on Earth too. It's a focusing thing, too, not just gravity. There's this little spot on my back that I need to focus on. If I'm not actively focusing on it, I start dropping."

"And knowing how much force gravity is exerting on you helps how?"

"Because I know to concentrate harder." I reached the end of the book, and grabbed the next one. "It's hard to put into words. You can feel your magic, right?"

"All unicorns do."

"Well, I can feel gravity in the same way. I... I push against it, and usually, I start going upwards. Ever since I woke up, it felt wrong. That's part of the reason I thought I was dreaming." In the time it took to blink, I examined their Periodic Table, and noted the differences. They had three extra elements: Griffonite, Hydraite, and Rosterite. I'll have to look into them later.

"And you never thought to check out a textbook?"

"I thought I was dreaming, remember?"

A few moments of silence passed as I finished yet another book.

"Are you helping with Winter Wrap Up?"

"I'm dragging a plow over on the farm. And I refuse to sing."

* * * * *

The Ponyville Gym was pretty much empty when I entered. All in all, I thought it was a good thing. I, as a general rule, don't like crowds. A few buff Pegasai were working out at the benches. I recognized them from the hospital. They must of helped move the weights.

I turned my attention to the punching bags, and cracked my knuckles. I slipped on some boxing gloves. They didn't quite fit my hands, being made for hooves and all. I made a mental checklist in my head, ticking off all of the things Vengeance had taught me about boxing.

Vengeance. I've found myself thinking about him since I got here. He was a good friend, and a damn good hero too. He's the one who taught me self control. Before I met him, I didn't just fight the Seventeens, I crippled them. I'd snap bones like they were twigs. And in the end, it wasn't even that effective. Crime didn't really start to go down until Vengeance started helping me.

I let out a short breath, my left fist flying away from me. A pretty standard jab, followed by a hard right hook.

Knocked out a lot wannabe thugs like that.

The small amount of tech I used was all designed by him. Knockout pellets, concussive pellets, night vision sunglasses, hell, he was making something to wirelessly alert the cops when he finally made a mistake.

No. It wasn't his mistake. It was mine. The bomb was meant for me.

Two jabs, and a haymaker.

It was my fault. I should of been there, but I told him that I was fucking busy. All of the nights that he helped me, and I couldn't let one fucking druggie go? I'm a terrible friend.

Uppercut, cross, jab, spin kick.

I was the one who found his body among the ruins. There wasn't much left. It was in his will that he was cremated, and I was the one to give the body to his girlfriend. Last I heard from her, she was leaving California for Canada. I couldn't help but wonder how she was.

Three jabs, cross, kick, cross, jab.

That was what, a month before I got here? According to Fluttershy, I was out for almost three months. I've been up and about for about... Eight weeks, give or take. Damn, six months. Wonder how Earth's doing. I better not come back to some dystopian dictatorship.

After I found the body, the game changed. I wasn't that interested with stopping individual gang members. If I'm being completely honest, I didn't care to stop the turf wars either. It was personal, plain and simple. I went straight for the top dog, this bastard named Rodney Casares. He was a real piece of work. Had to be, to run the Seventeens. Several prison sentences, and that was before he was discharged from the military.

And that's were shit got a little weird. Vengeance had some dirt on him, back when he was in the army. Joined some supposed super soldier program. I never got close enough to find out if it worked. At least, I don't think I did. I'm missing a bit at the end. Just some loud noises, and a hell load of pain. Something about REM too. I think he was there.

Just thinking about it got me pissed. Motherfucker kills my best friend, and I didn't even get a chance to fight him! To make him pay.

My next haymaker broke the punching bag. Ripped right through it, and a good chunk of the glove. The filling spilled out onto the floor.

Deep breaths. Deep breaths. Control the rage.

"I should go see Fluttershy." I mused aloud.

Author's Note

Nighthawk is a left handed boxer. He's also from California, specifically, Los Angeles. He was an anti-hero for several years before he met Vengeance. Vengeance disagreed with Nighthawk's tactics, and punched him in the face. They quickly became best friends. Vengeance's death has had quite an effect on Nighthawk's mind. He became quite savage again, when facing the Seventeens.

19 Visiting Time at the Zoo

"Awfully crowed here." I half shout, to be heard over the animals.

"I take care of a lot of little critters right after they wake up from their hibernation. Taking their weights, making sure that they aren't hurt, small things like that." Fluttershy replied, the animals becoming quiet to let her talk.

"Little critters? 'Shy, there are bears here. Bears, as in plural."

"They're little in heart." Fluttershy scratched a bear's chin, "Aren't you Harry? You're just a little guy." In response, the bear thumps it's foot excitedly.

"You ma'am, are very brave." I chuckle, giving her a light push in the shoulder. making her giggle. "Hey... Keep quiet about what I told you, okay?" She gives a nod, smiling.

"Of course Nighthawk. Your secrets are safe with me." Her smile tightens a bit, and she looks down at the ferret she'd been checking out. "Your shoulder is dislocated. Did you sleep on it wrong?" The little guy actually nods. I can't get over the animals here being smart. Sentient possibly. I hope the fish I've been eating isn't.

"Nighthawk?" Her voice snaps me out of my thoughts.

"Yeah?"

"Push right here, please. Gently."

I put my hand on the shoulder, and push down. The shoulder pops, making the ferret cry out, but it's been set. He'll be able to use it again once the pain fades out.

"Alright little guy, it should be okay now. Nighthawk reset the shoulder. Be careful using it for a few days, and it should be fine."

I stretch out, before yawning. "I'm heading into town. Need anything?" She gives me a small list, before I head out.

The smells of the market waft into my nose before I get there. I can tell Bonbon has some new sweets on sale, and there's a bit of spice in the candies. One advantage of my super brain is that it's easy to shift between different smells, sights, and other assorted stimuli. I hear some foals playing in the nearby school, and give a wave to the crowd. I see Applebloom playing around with a hoop of some sort, but turn my attention elsewhere. I inhale the smell of cookies a block from Sugarcube Corner, and briefly consider picking up some snacks. I hear Rainbow's snoring, and smell Applejack's apple pie.

One of the disadvantages is that it can be a little overwhelming. Even though I can shift through the stimuli, if I focus on any one for two long, I run the risk of over analyzing it, and completely ignoring all else. Back on Earth, I had a recuring problem of walking into shit because of over focusing on things. Crashed a car once too. Who's car was it? No idea. Must be one of the things I've forgotten. I hate having these blanks in my head. It pisses me off.

I almost walk into a street lamp, so lost in thought I was. I realize that I passed the market, and look up at Rarity's home. I see that it's closed right now, and remember that she's looking for gems with Spike today. I hope it's going well for her.

I continue wandering through town for a hour or so, before picking up the items, and bringing them back to 'Shy's cottage. I'm honestly surprised for a moment, seeing that she isn't here. Her little bunny friend hops on my shoulder, thumping up a storm, before pulling on my ear. I look where he's pointing to see a broken window, and walk over to it.

Glass is on the inside, so it was broke from the outside. No blood, so it was either a thrown object, or whoever broke it has their hand (hoof?) covered. I check around, but don't see what could of broken it. I do, however, see a few feathers, and realize why Fluttershy isn't here anymore. Standing up straight, I leave, heading to town again.

I check the library first, intent on getting Sparkle's help, but find her place empty too. No sign of a struggle here, but after a quick search, I can only be sure that if she was taken as well, it was outside of her house. I hear the door creaking open in the next room, and listen closely.

I hear a soft click with each heavy step, and grab a book. Twilight'd kill me if she saw what I was about to do. As soon as the dog steps into view, I chuck the book at it, making it flinch. It gives me enough time to wench it's arm behind it, and slam his face into the ground.

"Start talking, or I break your arm." I growl into it's ear.

It whines and whimpers, before I jerk the arm, and make it howl. "Ponies gone! Taken from you!" I slam a fist into it's shoulder, and with a loud pop, I know it's been dislocated.

"Where?"

"Underground! Dog Caverns, prisoners!"

"Why?"

"A challenge. Alpha wants you dead, he'll make you dead, or ponies die!" Disliking the thing's tone, I punch it in the back of the head, knocking it out. I drag it outside, and toss it into the street, before giving it some thought.

A bit north from Ponyville is a Quarry, according to Rarity, a pack of Diamond Dogs lived there. She said that they don't usually bother her, but I guess the Alpha was a bit pissed about those dogs I'd beaten up. It's a good place to start looking, so I adjust my domino mask, and dart off.

Author's Note

Eh, been a while. Trying to experiment with a new style.

20 I Fucking Hate Caves

I really shouldn't of knocked out that dog. I could of used a guide. I sigh as I continue moving around the Quarry. There are tons of holes on the ground, but I have no way of knowing what hole leads where. I consider briefly giving up, but push it out of my head. After a few moments of fruitless searching, I hear something behind me, and spin around, seeing an armored dog.

"Hero. Ponies underground. Follow, or they die."

I grunt, and nod. "Alright. Lead the way."

It seems almost surprised at how quickly I agreed, before sinking back into it's hole. I hop in, sliding across the ground. Rarity'll probably be pissed when she finds out. At the bottom of the tunnel, the dog awaits, before dropping on all fours, and running down another tunnel. I keep pace with him, passing through several large, inhabited caverns.

After maybe ten minutes, I start feeling the air pressing in on me, and feel sweat running down my body. It's pretty warm down here, and ahead, I see light. The dog steps aside, and I enter, seeing several stalagmites above. The light is blocked by a few stalactites, but as I get closer, the air heats up even more. As I pass between the upward growing spikes, I see the source of the light.

"I call bullshit. Lava doesn't work like that." I say, hopping over the river, and approaching another dog. This one is wearing a full plate suit, and has an ax hanging from it's side. Attached to it's back is a small buckler. It tilts it's head, frowning at me.

"Hero doesn't look like much." The gravelly voice finally says. "Ponies are our slaves now. Fight me, win. Or they die." It puts it's paw on the ax.

I dash forward, swinging my fist into the side of it's helmeted head. The dog stumbles backward, before turning it's head to face me again. "Hero isn't much."

I feel a slight crackle of electric energy, before I feel the dog slamming into me. I hate to admit that it knocked me over, and onto my back. The next thing I know, his ax is swinging down at my head. So I brought my knee up, and threw my arm out, sending the dog sprawling away.

Rolling away, I land on my feet again, just in time to see him reading his shield. Throwing myself at him like a bullet, I'm surprised to see him reacting in time, putting the shield in the way of my kick. Once more, I feel the crackle of energy, before I'm thrown away. I bounce off the ground once or twice, before hitting a spike, and indenting myself in it.

I see him running at me, quickly, ax raising. I put my hand in the way to catch it... And the blade sinks into my flesh like it was nothing, stopping only when it hit bone. The pain is indescribable, easily the worst I've felt since I got here. I kick him away, and scramble away, breaking line of sight with him, and hiding in the line of stalactites.

"Can smell your blood Hero." It calls out mockingly, before cutting through the rock behind me. His helmet's been raised, freeing his nose. An idea pops into my head, and I slam my injured, bloody hand into his nose, palm first.

"Hope you like it." I growl, before kicking him in the chest. I see him readying the shield again, and jump over him. He spins around, following me closely. He's certainly faster than the others I've fought. I wondered if he had powers, or magic, before pushing it out of my head. I figured that if he'd injured me, he was owed my full attention.

I dart to the side, faster this time, watching him follow my movements. Even faster, I close in with a feint, watching how fast he raised the shield, and kick out under it. I watch it start to lower, but my kick was too fast, knocking him onto one knee. The ax swings in from the side, and I grab his arm by the wrist. I squeeze, hard, and feel the metal resist my crushing grip. "Magic." I mutter, before over powering it, and feeling the wrist buckle and break.

It lets out a howl of pain, and I punch him in the still exposed face. "Stupid, fucking magic." I punch him again, and a third time for good measure. I let him fall to the ground, before kicking him in the side, sending him flying to the side. He shakily stands, pulling the helmet back over his face. It drops the shield, before taking it's ax in it's good hand.

It closes in, swinging wide, and I dart forward, leaning down. Grabbing his leg as I pass, I rip it out from under him, before swinging, and throwing him through several rocks. Picking up the ax from the ground, put it in my belt. "You've lost."

I hear the other dogs closing in before I see them. Seeing their Alpha laid out before them certainly did wonders for their aggression. They drag my friends out, gagged and bound. None of them seem to have anything more serious than a few scratches. I use the ax to cut their bindings, before another dog, a smaller breed, leads us up and out.

* * * * *

An hour or so later, we're all sitting inside of Fluttershy's cottage. She finished putting the finishing touches on the bandage covering my hand. Sparkle's looking over the ax I collected. Rainbow and Applejack are quietly sitting next to each other. Rarity had fainted on 'Shy's couch. Pinkie was in the kitchen, brewing tea for everyone.

"It's like... A black spot." Sparkle says softly. "I can't get a read on the enchantments but... I think it's... Griffon, in design." She mutters.

"It cut me." I remind her. "Normal metal doesn't do that. Not here, not on Earth."

"Bare with me on this... What if metal here is different, or what if our universe runs on different rules then yours?" Sparkle does bring up a good point, but I've already tested that.

"I've tried cutting myself on a dozen blades Sparks." Her ears fold back in annoyance. "Kitchen knifes, daggers, swords. Nothing. This is the first time I've been cut. You say it's Griffon? Maybe a griffon would know."

"The only Griffon any of us know is Gilda, and she..." Rainbow starts.

"She's a bitch." I finish for her.

"I was going to say that she didn't study blacksmithing, dick."

"I think it's the magic." Sparkle pips up again, "But it's leagues above me. I've never seen anything like it, but I've never studied weapon enchantments before."

"Alright." I let out a sigh, before she continues.

"But my brother did."

21 The Guardsmen Come

Twilight finishes the letter, and sends it off, before sitting down next to me. She opens and shuts her mouth a few times, before settling on hugging me. "I'm sorry you got hurt saving us."

I take a moment to think, before shaking my head. "It's fine. Live and learn. Stop letting things hit me."

RD snorts. "You... You let things hit you?" It's the first time she's smiled since we got out of that mess.

"Well, yeah. Do you really think I'd take a hit if I didn't? I move at near super sonic speeds." I roll my eyes at her.

"Why in darnations would you let something hit you?" AJ asks.

"I like to let my enemies know they don't stand a chance." I say, raising the ax, "But, if they have things like this... Probably shouldn't. Doesn't seem so smart anymore." The joke gets a few soft chuckles, and I can't help but smile.

"So... What now?" RD asks. "Do... Do we just let them get away with foalnapping us...?" There's a clear tone of worry in her voice.

"My brother knows about it now. I... He'll likely rouse the guard, and take care of it."

"Yeah, about this brother of yours? When are you going to tell us about him?" Rarity asks, leaning in with a wolfish grin.

"It... Never came up." She says weakly, blushing.

"Okay," I begin, frowning, "Disregarding Sparkle's family issues-"

"Hey!"

"-I think it's important to find out where this came from. If it's griffon, then those dogs didn't make it. Either someone sold it to them, or they stole it." I twist the blade around with my good hand. "I hate to say it, but I'm going to have to go back, and explore those caves."

"You aren't going to go alone." Rainbow says forcefully, as Applejack nods.

Almost like she senses what I was about to do, Fluttershy hops onto my lap. She stared into my soul, and in a soft voice, she says, "No. You aren't leaving, not right now, and not alone. You are going to stay here, let me finish your hand, and then you're going to be checked out by the medic that comes with Twilight's brother. Let me see your hand." My hand glides to her all on it's on, and she breaks eye contact. I glance down, and see that my hand's bled through the bandages all ready. "This isn't healing fast enough, we need to find a way to stop the bleeding. Stitches won't work, so... We need to cauterize it."

Seeing me flinch at the thought didn't do their bravado any favors. Just a few weeks ago, a house fire broke out in the middle of a storm. I ended up trapped in a collapsed building, and was gravely injured. Luckily, whatever rules this universe has, one of them kicked my natural healing up a few notches, and all that's left to remind me are some wicked scars across my body. Even those seem to be fading with each passing week.

I take my good hand, and run it down the wicked scarring, sighing deeply. Taking another deep breath, I steadied my nerves. "No. I've had worse, and healed fine. Give me the bandages, and I'll rebind it." Leaning over to take the meager first aid kit, Fluttershy took my hand.

"Nighthawk... Please." She whispers softly, looking into my eyes. She looked sad, and lonely. In that moment, I don't think I could of said no. Luckily, that moment, a loud crack, and a burst of light appeared outside of the library. Several armored ponies pushed their way into Fluttershy's home, standing on the sides of the room. A unicorn in purple armor enters slowly, eyes narrowed. His gaze lands on Twilight, and she lets out a soft gasp.

"Shiny..." She whispers.

"Twily." His voice sounds strained. "I was so worried. Are you okay?"

"I am... Thanks to Nighthawk." She nods to me, and I lift my hand in greeting.

He looks me over, before standing aside, and looking at a smaller Earth Pony mare. "Private, get him some salve for his hand. I'll debrief the Elements." He turned his attention back to my friends. "I need you to line up, and head outside. I need to know what happened, and how." They slipped outside as the Earth Pony stepped forward.

"Private Mayflower." She introduced herself, with a slight bow. "May I?" She gently reached for my hand, and I offered it. She applied some sort of clear ointment, that made the hand tingle. She tightly bound the wound with clean bandages. "It's a general antiseptic." She said in a soft, calming voice. "It'll prevent infection." Looking at her for a moment, I nodded.

"Thanks." I replied in a slightly less gruff tone. She gave a soft smile, before returning to her comrades. They seemed to be checking the cottage for anything the dogs might of left behind. I relaxed in my seat, rubbing the bridge of my nose with my good hand. Before long, I was asleep.

9 The promised Slice Of Life Chapter

Nighthawk was leaping and running from building to building with a practiced ease. From the outside world, his dark costume made him look more like a shadow than a hawk, but inside, he felt as though he was flying just like his namesake. He slid to a stop, observing the gang below him.

Sucking in a quick breath, Nighthawk lept, and landed in the center. 'Go on, scream,' he thought, 'it's music to my ears.' As one pulled out his knife, he slipped in close, and shattered the arm. Another punch, and the thug went flying into a open dumpster.

"I offer you one chance to surrender peacefully. I implore you to ignore it," Nighthawk said with a fierce growl, "I don't get to fight this many often."

The other eight raised their hands above them, denying him the joy of fighting. Reaching down to his belt, Nighthawk threw one of his capsules filled with anesthetic gas, and sighed as they passed out.

'I hate it when they give up.'

He searched the gangsters one by one, until he found a cell phone. He was surprised that only one was carrying a working model. He dialed 911 and left the phone as he lept back into the sky, searching for more trouble.

It didn't take long for him to find it. A robbery-gone-wrong on the other side of the city had turned into a hostage situation. Between his leaping and super speed, it took only a few minutes before he was at the scene.

'One male gunman, appears mid-to-late twenties, green headband marks him as a Seventeen,' thought the hero, 'Two older hostages, green tattoos poorly hidden. Probability of trap, 67%.' The hero chuckled at the amateur execution.

He lept through the air, his leg shooting out, knocking the gunner off his feet. Just as expected, the other two jumped up, pulling knifes. Nighthawk broke one's arm, and slammed his hands onto the others ears, stunning her. As she came back at him, Nighthawk smashed her nose, knocking her out. Without turning, he threw one of his concussive pellets at the gunman reaching for his weapon, and an instant later was standing at the edge by him.

The gunman's smirk stopped the hero dead.

As Nighthawk jerked around, time slowed down. It was too late though, the supersonic round was inches from his chest. He was pulling to the side as fast as he could, trying to minimize damage when a light blue blur went past him, snatching the bullet out of the air.

Something in the air changed, and Nighthawk cast his eyes to the pale green sky, filled with black stars, trying to find it. He stopped as his flesh began to boil in his costume.

* * * * *

I woke up gasping as I felt my skin boil under the uncaped mask Fluttershy had made me after the party three days prior. She jerked awake next to me and placed her wing on my shoulder.

"Another nightmare?" She asked gently.

All I can manage is a slight nod as I climb out of her bed, and stumble towards her attached bathroom, "I... I need... I...can't... breathe..." I enter, and lock the door behind me. Then I tear my mask off. I go over to her sink, and start splashing cold water on my face. As the boiling feeling fades, my breathing returns to normal and I look into the mirror.

Damn, Rarity was right, I needed to shave. I would let her shave the brown patchy stuff off my face, but as it turns out, my hair is bullet proof too. Maybe with magic...

I stare into the reflected blue eyes, set on a pale white face, for a moment, before my eyes rise to my ragged short hair. I knew that it was keep short with power tools back home, but I didn't think they were readily available here.

I sigh as I pull the mask back on, and leave the bathroom.

"I'm heading out. I should be back in time for breakfast," I say as I grab my full costume.

* * * * *

I ran until dawn. It was... refreshing, the cold air brushing against my masked face. It helped clear my mind. As I landed on Applejack's barn, I reached deep inside of myself. Upon reaching that state of peace, I though of the world I had landed in. REM had really outdone himself. He'd make a killing in designer dreams if he ever went straight.

My thoughts were interrupted by a voice from below.

"Howdy, Nighthawk!" It was Applejack.

"Hello," I responded without opening my eyes.

A few seconds passed before she spoke again, "Lifting an Ursa was pretty impressive."

"It hurt," I say as I rub my shoulder, "Badly. Fluttershy says I shouldn't use my arm for another week."

I heard something lightly dragging back and forth across the ground. "Do you have a job? Back home, I mean."

"No. Robbed criminals when I needed cash."

"Did... Did you ever kill?"

"No. I did cripple a few back when I had less control, but I never killed."

Another moment of awkward silence passed.

"Wanna work on the farm?"

* * * * *

"So Applejack just offered you a job?" Fluttershy asked as she passed me the syrup.

"Got to meet her and her brother this afternoon. South Field." I responded between bites of the best pancakes I'd ever tasted. I finished, and stood up. "Got to go talk to Rarity about something, okay?"

After she nodded, I walked out her door. After a moment of consideration, I threw myself into the air.

* * * * *

Nighthawk landed outside the Carousel Boutique as Sweetie was leaving for school. She shouted, startled by his sudden appearance.

"H-Hi..." She said, grinning nervously.

"Hey. Rarity here?"

Sweetie nodded, "She's working on a new dress. Third room on the right." She held the door open as he passed her.

"Enjoy school." He said as she was closing the door.

Nighthawk slipped up against the third door, and opened it. To his surprise, Rarity was nose (muzzle?) deep in a book. As he got closer, he smiled.

"On my world, he's called Batman." The look of sheer shock on her face was adorable. "And he's a guy."

She stuttered out a response, "P-Please don't tell the others." She let out a smile, "A lady can read what she wants, but some may view this as uncouth." A few moments of silence passed as she read page after page of her well worn Adventures of Batmare and Robinaloo before she spoke again, "If it's not too personal, what's your origin story?"

"My parents were gunned down by a common criminal when I was a kid."

She just looked at him for a moment. "Did you really think I'd believe that?"

"Okay, okay..." He took a breath, "My homeworld was minutes from being destroyed, and my parents sent me to another planet. The sun gave me power."

She just shook her head.

"Gamma rays?"

"Are you going to say anything that isn't a cliche?"

He held up his hands in a placating gesture, "Okay. I've really an amnesiac, and have no idea how I got my powers."

She scoffed at him, "You could of just said that you didn't want to talk about it."

He shrugged. "Maybe it's all of the above. I mean, if I have to have a past, I'd like it to be multiple choice."

That made her giggle. When she was back under control, she asked why he was there.

"Oh, I was going to ask how much the suit was. Applejack gave me a job, and I'd like to pay you for it."

"It's a gift. You don't pay for gifts."

"Maybe we do on my world," the hero said with a wink, "Anyway, I have another stop before the Apple farm. Where does Twilight live?"

* * * * *

She lives in a tree. Not only that, but the tree doubles as the Books And Branches library. Why does she get the cool house?

I knocked on the door, and a small purple and green... lizard... thing opened the door for me. He just stared for a moment before calling out, "Twilight! Someone's here for you!" Then he leaned in and whispered, "Did you really bench press an Ursa Minor?"

I'm about to make a witty remark when Twilight pulls Spike away from the door.

"Come on in, Nighthawk."

I decide to cut to the chase, "I need a copy of your most recent edition of Equestian History."

She blinked at me, before her horn glowed, and a book was pulled from the shelf. I take a seat as it's passed to me, and start breezing through it. A few moments of her staring at me in awe, and I pass it back.

"I'd also like to see any nonfiction books you have on the various creatures inhabiting Equs."

"Do... Do you remember any of that?"

"All of it." I tap my head, before continuing, "Faster brain to go with faster body. As a side effect, I have perfect recall. Usually." I added with a frown.

After a few seconds, she passes me a stack of books.

Author's Note

I've decided to delay Dragonshy's adaptation until the next chapter.

Also, the nightmare in the beginning gets all screwy when he feels the change. Nighthawk is from a Earth very similar to ours.

Rarity's secretly a comic nerd.

That's certainly one use of super speed and a hyper advanced brain, he'll never need to worry about studying!

14 Carry on...

Author's Note

This was difficult to write. I hope it isn't too bad to read, but Nighthawk is just waking up after some horrific injuries. His mind is out of order. I'm not sure if I got the whole disorientation thing right, but it has been a while since I was stuck in a hospital with life threatening injuries.

14 Carry on...

Tick-Tock.

Tick-Tock.

Tick-Tock.

Tick-Tock.

I let out a groan. Everything hurt. I couldn't open my eyes.

"Nighthawk?" I heard a voice, but it sounded so far away. "Nurse! Nurse! He's waking up!"

I tried to move, and everything faded to white. I think I screamed.

* * * * *

Light. I saw a light, shining right into my eyes. I still couldn't open them. I heard voices again, but they were too far away to make anything out.

* * * * *

I can't focus like this. I can't remember anything. I keep fading in and out. I need to stay... awake...

* * * * *

Fire. All I remember is fire.

"IT BURNS!"

I hear something... It all... goes... white...

* * * * *

I inhale a deep breath, and let out a scream. It's all I can think to do. What happened to me? Why am I screaming?

Something... Something was hot. I... can't... think...

It clicks. Pain, hot. Can't open my eyes. But they are open, I just can't see. I jerk upwards, and the pain gets worse. I climb to my feet, and fall again. I claw at my face, removing the bandages. I still can't see.

* * * * *

It's easier this time. I'm not screaming now, but it's still so hard to think. I can't... feel... my... arm...

"Nighthawk..." I hear the voice, but it's so distant. I miss bits and pieces. I think she's talking to me, but my name isn't Nighthawk. It's...

Why can't I remember my name?

I feel something, but I'm not sure what it is.

"Do you remember?" The voice asks.

I don't respond.

* * * * *

My eyes creak open, and for a moment, I think I'm blind. As my eyes adjust to the light, I see I'm in a hospital, and all alone. I can't move my arm, and turn my head. I'm surprised when I see the burns. What happened? My eyes close, and I pass out again.

* * * * *

I feel something slide past my lips, and the voices start again.

"I don't know if it's good, but his temperature is finally going down." It's a male's voice.

"What is it?" A female.

"It's 143.4 degrees."

"That... High..." I croak out.

"Nighthawk? Nighthawk, are you okay?"

I think Nighthawk is my name.

"I... I can't think... Why can't I think?"

"You have some pretty bad burns covering your body. We've managed to put you on painkillers." Says the male voice.

I try to stay conscious, but it's a losing battle.

"What happened?"

"You charged into a burning building, trying to save a foal."

Foal?

"Did... Did it work?"

I don't stay awake long enough to hear her answer.