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Twilight's Dawn | Epilogue | Twilight awoke from another exhausted, dreamless sleep; four hours stolen from the gargantuan list of tasks that confronted her. At least she had her friends now, though those relationships had changed. As Applejack had said, "Sugarcube, you cain't resurrect your friends and expect everthin' to stay lahk it always was." The death and loss had changed them all, even though they knew their family and friends were in a better place. For some, the loss of relationships had led to withdrawals, for others, it heightened the need to connect with those remaining. She spared a few minutes to think about her friends.
In some ways, her relationships with the other bearers of the elements were deeper and more serious, as with Rainbow Dash. Sometimes Dash would come in and sit with Twilight as she dealt with the unending planning and paperwork. She wouldn't speak unless Twilight initiated a conversation, not wishing to interrupt the work, but when the princess started to sag, when she started thinking about all that she had lost, all the friends she would never see again, Celestia, her parents, and especially Spike, Dashie would come to her, take her hoof and let her ruler weep into the folds of her wings. Once, after a particularly bad crying jag, Twilight had awoken to find herself in her cot in the rude hut jokingly known as "The Palace," enfolded in Rainbow Dash's warm embrace, taking comfort in her physical nearness and the downy softness of her blue coat. She lay there for the better part of an hour, before Dash started to snore like an angry buzz saw and broke the spell. It was the first time she had laughed out loud about something in a very long time. It was like it must be having an older sister hold you when you felt bad, or perhaps something a little more than that. Twilight wasn't sure what it was, but she was certainly glad for it.
One of Twilight's first official writs confirmed Pinkie Pie's adoption of the Cake twins. Pinkie was still a lot of fun when she remembered to be, morale being most important these days, but to Twilight she seemed much more serious. She spent hours and hours playing with and taking care of her children and the other foals still in the creche. Some had been adopted by older fillies and colts, but there simply were not enough prospective parents (or older siblings) to go around so most stayed in the large hut which served as an orphanage. Pinkie was more or less running the place, and Twilight rarely saw her. It wasn't that Pinkie was avoiding her, but she didn't seek out her company. Twilight thought back to the times when Pinkie would randomly burst in and cause chaos, have arguments with herself or invite her friends to a party at three o'clock in the morning, All the times when Pinke was crazy, obnoxious, incomprehensible... Twilight missed that so much. ...and then I said, oatmeal, you're so crazy... A tear rolled down the princess' cheek at the memory.
Fluttershy had always been the least connected of her friends. Her many relationships with the "critter community" crowded out most pony-pony interactions. Not that she wasn't a dear friend, but her heart was truly for animals, not ponies. Losing all her critter friends in the last battle really seemed to have taken a lot out of her. The animals here were strange, and Fluttershy didn't seem able to approach them. Only one, a creature the dragons referred to as a mongoose (though a less goose-like creature could hardly be imagined), seemed to respond at all to Fluttershy's overtures. She named him Mongo, and he accompanied her sometimes; they appeared to understand one another at a basic level. But he was still a wild thing and not bound to her through the ties of mutual affection that had been her experience with the critters of Equestria.
Rarity seemed almost strangely unchanged by the whole affair. There always was a strong-willed self-reliance underneath that delicate exterior, and her dramatics were of an attention-getting kind rather than reflecting genuine self-doubt. When Twilight asked her about the ponies she had lost, in particular her parents, her response was, "Darling, I know they're all waiting for me on the other side. I was there, remember? They're all perfectly happy and content and I know I'll see them again, so I'm not going to spend a lot of energy worrying about it. Honestly, I never even noticed that Sweetie Belle wasn't there. It's almost like anything that might upset you just isn't terribly important, so I know they don't miss me, at least not enough to seriously concern them. And while I do think about the future here and now, I can't believe we defeated Scylla and Charybdis just to fail here when building the colony. We'll make it through. You are the only pony who would have had a chance of pulling this off, so I don't want to hear any of this survivor's guilt nonsense either. You've done what you had to do. Have faith in yourself; you might be amazed to know just how much faith the rest of us have in you." With that she kissed her on the cheek and went back to sewing sailcloth and tent canvas.
Applejack seemed to have had her mood considerably improved; she was more cheerfully practical than ever. "Ah saw mah parents! Ma and Pa Apple! I got to tell 'em all about Apple Bloom and how much she'd grown, all the things we got to do together. It was so nice to be able to see them agin', and now thet ah know they're all waitin' for us... Ah don't worry about nothin'. And there's LOTS of work to be done, so we're all going to be too busy to be feelin' sorry for ourselves. Everythin' is gonna be just fine, sugarcube." Twilight was caught utterly off guard when Applejack quickly kissed her on the lips, and then trotted off lead the plow teams. Her lips tasted like sugared apples.
Twilight snapped out of her reverie. It is time to think on the day's business.
First on the list, review the food inventory. Preservation spells on the food kept it from spoiling, but there was little that could be done about mice and rats getting into the huts used to store food. Their draconic allies were able to provide them with a certain amount, but Twilight didn't want to appear to be too dependent. Alliances were built on mutual respect, not dependency. The assignment of twenty dragon lancers as a guard force was an absolute necessity; there was no way they could defend themselves against even a minor incursion as they were. She would ask for nothing else if she could help it.
On a related note was weather control. An important part of Equestria's impressive fertility was regulation of rainfall and the elimination of large storms. Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo spent an average of twelve hours a day rounding up and compressing clouds to produce rains across the shallow valley being cleared by Applejack's colts and fillies. Three other pegasi, two colts and a filly, will be joining them today as apprentices. Usually a third of all pegasi wound up in weather control, as it is a very labor-intensive field, so the odds were at least one of the apprentices would gain their cutie mark fairly quickly. Twilight hoped for twenty trained weather pony specialists by the spring. Twilight had decided to have a short ceremony for this and all future apprenticeships; the development of specialized skills was crucial to the survival of the colony.
An apprentice... Sun Glimmer, of all the unicorn fillies, seemed to have the most serious and studious nature. Twilight had been thinking about who to apprentice to herself, and Sun Glimmer was the most likely choice. She came from a long line of wizardly unicorns, none of them spectacularly powerful, but they had a reputation for versatility and quick thinking. Unfortunately with that studiousness came a certain callousness, certainly understandable given the horrors they'd all been through, but Twilight wasn't certain that Sun Glimmer actually cared about other ponies' well-being. She was harsh in her criticisms of other fillies failed attempts at spells and didn't seem particularly interested in mentoring them or encouraging them to do better. Still, she was certainly the quickest learner and Twilight had to work with the available materials, and perhaps some hardness would be an asset in this place. Here I am, thinking her callous when I killed two fillies to bring my friends back from beyond the door of death. She would make the announcement tomorrow, after discussing it with Sun Glimmer tonight.
Then there was the inspection of the irrigation pumps being built by Plumb Bob. She had been leaning very heavily on that colt, and he has been delivering. She would have to do something special for him, perhaps give him a ceremonial title like Royal Master Carpenter or some such. And he should have apprentices too! Twilight almost kicked herself. Everypony with a cutie mark will have at least one apprentice. We'll have to have a meeting. She jotted down some notes, and then thought of Spike for the first time that day. It would not be the last. How could I have let him get away? One moment I had him in a magical cocoon and the next, he was gone... How was that even possible?
Twilight's mind touched upon the navy. Blueblood and his crew had built a new ship's boat for the schooner to replace the one lost in the storm, and wanted her to name it at a ceremony today. Captain Blueblood had formally renounced all claims to royal title, which was useful for several reasons. First off, he was the only pony with any significant seafaring experience, and he certainly knew the Celestia better than anypony else. He was a navigator, explorer and adventurer, who had been bound by his royal birth to ceremonial duties in the palace, and was miserable. Now, Canterlot was rubble, and he was a crucial member of her team. The sea had done wonders for him, disfigurement aside. His spirit was free and he delighted in his new role as a leader. His young crew practically worshiped him as he taught them all he knew of the sea. Four cutie marks had been revealed in the past month, all of them members of his crew, and all of them nautical in nature. He bore little resemblance to that obnoxious fop at the gala, which brought her to the second point.
He was the last surviving pony in Equestria who was a descendant of the Celestial bloodline. His magic, while not very versatile, was extremely powerful at sea and in matters of navigation, cartography and such. He could never get lost, even if he tried. He could glance at a scene and in moments draw an accurate map of everything within view. His magical potential had to be fed back into the gene pool. He must be bred. Twilight forced herself into an objective state. We must have foals together. She would not marry him; he was the last full grown stallion in the world, and the population of ponies was dangerously low. For the next seven years at a minimum, there were only six mares and one stallion of breeding age. The others will see that for themselves, I hope, but once we have the colony safely established, we're going to have to grow the population as fast as possible, even if I have to make it a royal decree. It certainly helps that he's no longer a twit. However, since he had renounced his title, only her foals with him would be of the royal line, and that made things much easier from a political standpoint.
She watched as the false dawn was brightened by the sun's rays. She squinted and imagined she could see Celestia's smile. As dawn rolled across the landscape, down from the mountainsides, over the hills and finally onto the beach, Twilight pondered her new realm. She watched as a large insect, jewel toned with golden filigree wings alighted upon a glorious white blossom. This new land certainly has its beauty. The flower snapped shut, and the gemfly made a noise that sounded unpleasantly like a scream. Beautiful, treacherous and deadly. |
Minnkandi Stjarna | pre | "I know. I... I can't either."
Spike gasped for breath. "I... I w-wish I hadn't been so s-scared... So... In denial... I... I s-should have spent more time with you... Not just n-now, but b-before... I'm sorry for swearing, and... f-for crying."
Shining stopped comforting him, pulling away from Spike.
"Sh-Shining?"
"Spike..." Shining met his eyes. "It's okay to cry."
Spike wiped his tears with his thumb. "N-no it isn't."
"Why?"
"B-because! I'm supposed to be strong, remember? I-I can't be... falling apart like this!"
Spike heard himself almost yell again and flushed deeply. He fidgeted with his claws, looking all around the room, anywhere but at Shining.
A stinging silence passed.
"Spike," Shining Armor said at last, "when I said... those things to you... during our..." He smirked. "'Bachelor party'... I didn't mean to make you think... that you could... never cry, never show emotion. I'm sorry if that's what... you got from it." His muzzle fell, guilt evident in his eyes.
Spike flinched. "I-I didn't mean--"
"What I meant was... you're all the stallion that I am, Spike. Species, age, size... it doesn't matter. You're... just as strong as I am. And you know... what else?"
Shining coughed for a moment, then cleared his throat. "Being strong... is not about being stoic. To be brave... doesn't mean you're never scared. I'm... scared, Spike. I'm scared.
"I'm dying... and I'll most likely... never see my wife or sister again.... even in the afterlife. Or maybe, even.... my little brother..."
Spike, almost twenty-two years old and still the same size as he was at eleven, wished a blade had sliced through his heart. It would have wounded him less.
Shining Armor's wise, pained eyes brimmed with tears. "It's okay to be scared... It's okay to be hurt... It's okay to cry. The strongest... stallions I ever knew... they wore their hearts... on their sleeves. They were open...They loved... they lost... they loved again. They shared... they dared... they changed... let themselves change. So, don't worry, Spike... It's okay to cry. If you can't... that's okay, too. Just... don't hide your feelings. It only hurts more... in the end."
Spike let Shining's words echo through his ears while the stallion reached over for a cup of water. He drank and set the glass down, waiting, until Spike spoke up again.
"I'm a dragon, Shining. I'm supposed to be fearsome. I'm supposed to fight monsters. But I'm not and I don't. How can you say I'm as strong as you?"
Shining Armor smiled. "Twilight's stubbornness always... rubbed off on you. Needing... the same lesson, twice. Alright..." He paused. "Being a stallion is not about size... It's not about combat... It's not about being fearsome, or... scaring off monsters. A stallion is... somepony who cares for his family... who does... the most he can to protect them. Who loves them... and stands by them... and does all he can. Tirek... Got to me easily, heh. I couldn't stop... Sombra from getting to... my kingdom. Chrysalis replaced Cadence and... used me against my own family. Do you think any of that... makes me less of a stallion?"
Spike shook his head.
"Then you being small, or liking pink... whatever... it means nothing, Spike. You're you. You're a male... I'm a male... And we're both the stallions of our families."
Shining Armor reached his forehoof to Spike, who took it in both of his claws.
"Promise me something..."
Spike tightened his grip on his forehoof. "Anything."
Spike's vision blurred again. This time, he didn't fight it, and let it come. Let his wounds open at last, as Shining's story neared its final pages.
"When I'm gone... Take care of Twilight... And Cadence... And help with... the Empire. The citizens... they love you, too, Spike."
"I--"
"Promise me," Shining said, loud and steady.
"I..."
Spike met Shining's eyes, looked into the soul of his first memory, his brother, and the stallion who had shaped him more than any other had, and shook his forehoof.
"I promise."
Shining Armor returned the hoofshake. "Thank you... brother."
No longer little, Spike replied, "You're welcome, brother."
As they pulled away, there was a new understanding between them, and they both smiled.
Then, Spike let loose the anvil that had weighed down his thoughts long before his arrival. "Shining... There's something I need to tell you."
At Shining's nod, Spike took a deep breath, and began.
"You've been such a big part of my life. You've always been there to play with me, or comfort me, or take care of me when I'm sick, or give me advice. The night of the wedding, our little party... That was everything to me, Shining. And even though we drifted apart when you went into the Royal Guard and I was living with Twilight, first at Canterlot Castle, then in Ponyville, I never forgot about you. I'm sorry I didn't write more, visit more."
Shining sighed. "I'm sorry... for that too. You, me, Twilight... We were just doing... our own things."
"Y-yeah... But... What I'm getting at, Shining, is that you are so important to me... And I didn't tell it to you enough." Though his voice began to waver, his claws shaking, Spike pressed on. "I didn't tell you that I loved you enough, or called you brother enough..."
"But... you have now." With a smile, Shining said, "The story isn't over yet."
Slowly, Spike returned the smile. "You're... you're right. It's not over yet. I guess what I'm trying to say is... I love you, brother, and I'm sorry I didn't show it enough."
Forehooves wrapped him up and held him tight. "Apology... long accepted."
Spike wanted to say, "Thank you," but found the words far insufficient. Instead, he returned the gesture, until Shining pulled away.
"So... Any... special someponies in your life?"
"W-well..." With a blush, Spike raised a claw. "There is one pony..."
"Oh? ... Who?"
Spike found himself unable to look his cheeky brother in his eager eye. "Sh-she's... Um... She's... My age... Really pretty... An amazing singer..."
Shining gave a weak chuckle. "Sounds... wonderful. Go get 'er, brother."
"Hehehe, well, I haven't exactly told her how I feel--"
"Then tell her."
Spike flinched. "Easier said--"
"I know." Shining coughed. "That's why... you should just get it... over with. Like... I did with Cadence."
"Oh, you mean I should shout in her face, 'Will you go out with me?!'" Spike guffawed.
Snorting, Shining shook his head. "Alright, maybe... not like... I did with Cadence."
They shared a chuckle.
Just as they settled down, Shining groaned and rolled onto his back. "Can you... get a nurse? I need some... more meds, I think..."
"Of course. Be right back." Spike started for the door, only to stop when he heard Shining call out to him.
"Spike..."
Spike turned around. "Yes, Shining?"
"Thank you again... for coming. I love you."
Despite everything, Shining Armor, his brother, shone through, radiant as ever.
With all his heart, Spike said, "I love you too, Shining."
Spike closed the door behind him.
The hallway was empty. Spike quickly set off in search of a nurse.
Along the way, he thought of an old song in their ancient tongue--a vuelie--the Crystal Ponies had sang on the day of their freedom:
"Uppreisn stjarna... (Rising star...)
Sterkt hjarta... (Strong heart...)
Lifandi að eilífu, (Live forever,)
Með að eftir, (Through the after,)
Í eilífar. (In the eternal.)
Ást þín bindur okkur oll... (Your love binds us all...)"
Your love binds us all...
Spike nearly jumped in joy as it struck him.
Shining's story would never truly end. To end it would be to erase his love--for his brother, his sister, his wife, his kingdom, his country--an impossible task. As long as Spike lived, he would add to Shining's story, and so would everypony who had the privilege of knowing him.
Spike knew not how long he would live, but he vowed to keep his promises. Every promise.
The story is not over yet. I'll keep writing it with you, Shining, as much as I can.
And when you can't hold the quill anymore, I'll pick it up for you. |
Lunatic Fringe | pre | "Can we just sit in silence for a while?" Wednesday asked. "I need some time to think. I see now that I've made a mistake. But it seems impossible to fix it. I want to fix it though. I want things to be better."
"If you need silence," Luna replied, "then that can be provided. We have silence in abundance."
"Before I shut up, I just wanted to say... I had a really nice time in detention today. I needed this. I thought I'd hate it, but it was nice talking about my problems. You're really very nice, Princess Luna, and I'm sorry for earlier." Then, she turned to look at Overcast, and took a moment to study him. "You though, you're still a creepy weirdo. But that's fine... I guess. As far as creepy weirdos go, you're not so bad."
She hesitated, her legs clanged and clattered with every slight movement, and then a relieved half-smile could be seen on her face. "Mrs. Brambleberry's detention was awful. It made everything worse. There was something about her that always left me feeling drained and exhausted. Tired. Defeated. Worn out. It's like she would just suck the life out of you. She's part of the reason why I gave up, I think. She just... smothered me."
"Mrs. Brambleberry spends an awful lot of time with Princess Cadance, saying mean things, and complaining about how we're all monsters. For whatever reason, Mrs. Brambleberry is helping Princess Cadance plan her wedding, and I can't figure out why. Doesn't seem right."
"Overcast, that is enough," Luna said to the colt. "I do believe a little silence will do us good. We can be silent, but not alone. When we're done here, we can go have supper together, perhaps."
"Dinner detention?" Wednesday's eyes brightened with hope. "That would be nice. I'm sick of eating alone. Really, I am."
"Very well," Luna said. "We shall finish here, and then we shall sup together. Hopefully we'll have a pleasant conversation. But for now, silence. Think of good things to discuss as we dine. Mood determines digestion."
Squinting to see if Overcast's horn had even the slightest illumination, Luna prepared to spend a little time in blessed silence. She was overwhelmed, emotional-but-not-emotional. In fact, she had trouble remembering when her mood had been this stable. Whatever had started with Overcast had continued with Wednesday Waterkey. A welcome continuation, she felt.
There were worse things than being the Princess of Detention. |
Lunatic Fringe | Top Notch | Today wasn't the worst.
But... today wasn't the best.
It was neither best-worst, when you have an awful day but something good happened anyway; nor was it worst-best, where you have a spectacular day marred by tragedy. In her life, Luna had experienced both extremes and so she could confidently assert that today was a day. Nothing more, and nothing less. Of course, she hadn't been awake for very long, which meant that there was a lot of day left--or night when it came to her peculiar circumstances--so there was a lot of time for things to go wrong.
And they probably would.
But, they could also go right.
She prowled the private corridors where few went, deep within the bowels of the castle. Yes, a castle had bowels, ships had poop decks, and the Princess of the Night was secretly amused when either of these things were mentioned. Of course, if she roamed through the bowels of the castle, what exactly, did that make her? Why, whatever passed through bowels, of course. Soft, sibilant, susurrant snickering could be heard echoing through the hallways, the sound of Luna's secret myrth.
At the moment, she was having herself a gas.
Barely awake, she had upended her sister's room on a lark. She had turned everything upside down. Topsy-turvy. A bed's proper place was on the floor, but now it was on the ceiling. Along with everything else. When Celestia went to bed, she would be surprised. So very surprised. Of course, Celestia had it coming; this was deserved. Once, when they were very young, so very young, Celestia had left a live owlbear in Luna's room. How Celestia had wrangled the owlbear into Luna's private chambers was still unknown--Luna had never found out no matter how hard she pried--but Luna had gone to bed one morning with the dawn and there it was. A snapping, snarling, beaky creature that was more than a little cranky.
Even worse, it had defecated on the rug.
'Twas a nice rug.
The sort of rug that really brought a room together.
Now, all of Celestia's fine rugs were on the ceiling.
Roaming about with a bounce in her trot, Luna considered taking her captives out on a nature trip. It might do them good. Fleeing from angry nature might improve their constitution--though Wednesday would no doubt find it exceedingly difficult to run. But with luck, they might find an owlbear. Which of course would have to be brought home so that it might be smuggled into Celestia's room. Before release, Luna would feed it a meal rich in fibre, because kindness was a virtue, as well as an Element of Harmony.
Almost on the verge of whistling, Luna's thoughts drifted out of her sister's bedroom and fetched delightful memories of last night's supper--which was her breakfast, or maybe lunch. These things were complicated and the sort of thing one had to deal with when one was the Night Princess. Time and events lost meaning and definition.
Eating in the school's cafeteria meant that she could be herself. No formal rigidity. There were mashed potatoes to be sculpted. Peas, corn, and carrots longed to be arranged into artful pictures with just three colours--one could make a portrait of Celestia if one tried one's utmost, but one dared not make jokes about Her Royal Peaness. Noodles had to be slurped. Food was meant to be enjoyed, but the formality of the Royal Dining Room prohibited that. If she played with her food there, a pony might faint and drown in their soup.
Sometimes, Luna dreamt that there was an ocean in her soup bowl, and that she would go snorkeling in her sea of soup. Snorkeling at the surface was safe; but down in the depths, there were things found in the Sea of Soup best left forgotten. Eldritch horrors that squurglety-blurglety-blarghed down in the brothy deep; they fondled and probed one anothers' orifices with noodly tentacles and spoke forbidden languages that no mortal ear could hear, lest one go mad. The very worst nightmare found down deep in the forgotten dark was Carrothulhu, an unimaginable horror of indescribable description.
He was also the creature most responsible for students failing their geometry tests.
As Luna rose, ascending through the open space in the stairwell, she calmed her thoughts and gathered her focus. There was no need to even flap her wings; she willed herself to move and did so. Eyes closed, her face serene, she decided that tonight she would pay a visit to Twilight Sparkle, in Ponyville. Luna was a mare in need of some advice, and Twilight Sparkle was a helpful, considerate sort who had advice to give.
Celestia saw something in Twilight, though Luna wasn't entirely certain what. Whatever it might be, Luna too saw something in Twilight. A possible rival, perhaps--though a friendly one. Rivalry was good--or could be--because it brought out the best in ponies. Competition was a wellspring for strength. Yes, Twilight would make for a fine rival, but also a great friend. She had already done so much, but Luna was a mare in need of more. Surely, Twilight would not mind the company.
Today would be an excellent day, Luna decided.
But tonight would be even better.
The day, it seemed, had other plans. Upon entering the room, Luna found herself in crisis. Overcast and Wednesday Waterkey had arrived early. The former was laying on the floor while the latter tried to kneel down beside him, but couldn't because of her restrictive braces. Luna barely had eyes on him for but a second and already she knew that this wasn't an act, some fanciful bit of drama. Something was wrong and her heart did what she'd been doing mere moments before during her graceful ascent up the stairwell when it lept up into her throat.
"What happened?" Luna demanded.
"He carried me up the stairs," was Wednesday Waterkey's frantic response.
Standing over the colt and looking down, Luna could see that he wasn't well. Not at all. His bloodshot eyes were unfocused, his breathing shallow, and a light touch revealed that his body had gone cold. Annoyed and worried, she took stock of the situation, and of herself as well, because she had clearly misjudged Overcast. He looked up at her as she gazed down at him and cringed when she touched him a second time.
"Your shoes... cold. Brr."
"He carried you up the stairs?" asked Luna.
"Me, my trumpet case, and his bookbag. All at once. Said he couldn't be bothered to make more than one trip."
Hearing this made Luna's lips press tight together. Reaching out with her mind, she began the search for what she needed, the remedies that would right this situation. Beneath her, Overcast groaned, and when he did so Wednesday grew increasingly frantic. To keep the panic at bay--and before it could spread to her--Luna decided to keep the conversation going as a distraction.
"Why would you do such a thing, Overcast?" asked Luna. "Do you not know your limits?"
"I didn't want her to suffer," was the colt's weak, almost wheezed response.
"But what about you?" With parts of her mind still elsewhere, Luna lifted the colt from the stone floor so it could not leech away more of his precious body heat.
"Oh, I wanted to suffer. I like to suffer. Makes me miserable."
A cushion appeared first; it may or may not have been stolen from a couch. Large, square, somewhat sagging in the middle, and upholstered in a vivid lime green paisley, it might very well have been spirited away from an evidence locker containing items used in a crime against good taste. She put this down on the floor, set Overcast upon it, and he promptly collapsed into a limp heap.
Next, a blanket appeared. This was taken from the bedding closet in the barracks. Thick, grey-green, a little scratchy, and warm in any condition. Luna was quick to mummify the colt in the blanket, while she also propped him up in a sitting position. It would be easier for him to breathe this way, but for him to remain like this she would have to hold his head up.
Then, several cartons of chocolate milk appeared from the school cafeteria. The white waxed cardboard cartons had brown and orange markings, and proclaimed they came from Celestiashire Farms, a magical place where sunshine was converted into rich, creamy, wholesome milk. A straw winked into existence next and scowling her best scowl, Luna concentrated while trying to open the newfangled contraption that she did not particularly like.
"I kept all the suffering for myself," the colt murmured. "Not one for sharing and caring."
"He's not well," Wednesday said, stating the obvious in such a way that only a worried filly could.
"Were you trying to give yourself brain damage?" asked Luna.
"Maybe," replied Overcast, whose eyes crossed so that he might stare down his nose at the straw protruding from the carton. "My milk is tribalist."
Rapidly nearing a point of frustration from whence there was no return, Luna snapped at the colt in a rather angry tone, "How is a carton of milk tribalist?"
Head wobbling on his weak neck, the colt's bloodshot eyes crossed, uncrossed, crossed again, and he somehow gave his head a sad shake. "You don't see the evidence of tribalism right in front of you. That makes me sad. I like being sad. But not like this. As far as sadnesses go, this one is pretty difficult to enjoy, but I'll try my best."
"Overcast, would you please just--"
"Why do ponies drink cow milk, but drinking pony milk is a no-no?"
On the verge of explosive frustration, her patience stretched beyond its breaking point, Luna had no choice but to restrain herself from giving the colt a hard shake. Wednesday now stood beside the cushion, her face pinched with worry, and it appeared as though she might start crying at any moment. Luna too, felt like crying, or venting her temper. The day had started out so well but now her mood churned like a horrible batch of rage-butter.
"There's no way a pegasus or an earth pony could ever open that carton," he finally said as his unfocused eyes struggled to keep Luna in view. "Why do unicorns get all the nice things? It makes me feel ashamed, and not in a way I like."
Luna could not help herself, and she asked, "You like feeling ashamed?"
"Don't you?" Overcast replied.
It was a struggle to hold the milk carton now. Overcast had her dead to rights. With two words, he'd completely eviscerated her, and Luna could not recall ever feeling whatever it was she felt right now. This was new and it was awful. No, it was worse than awful. The milk carton trembled, betraying her and revealing her internal struggle. A part of her wanted to toss Overcast out the window once more--a perfectly reasonable and rational response, given the colt's propensity to incite equicidal fury. But there was another part of her--some new part that had just sprang into existence mere seconds ago--that wanted to give him a hug.
It occurred to Luna that the colt was especially sensitive--perhaps too much so--and that the revelation of just how cruel the world was had wounded him in some way that she herself could not comprehend. Now he was stuck coping with it by whatever means necessary. Which in this case meant shutting others out and choosing his own pain, picking out and selecting whatever agonies he wished to subject himself to on any given day like pulling a cloak out of a wardrobe.
"Wednesday, would you please be a dear and hold his milk for him?" asked Luna. "Also, be mindful of his head. He's been left weakened by extreme overexertion. While it is only fatigue, he is thoroughly depleted. Assist him as necessary."
"Yes, of course, Princess Luna."
"You have it worse than I do," Overcast said to Luna. "So much worse, Dreamwalker. Me? I'll die and all of this will be over. I get to escape. You're stuck living with it. Forever. I was kind of hoping that this would kill me. But it didn't. And now I get to live with even more disappointment. That's life, I suppose."
"Overcast"--his name left a bitter taste on Luna's lips--"silence yourself and drink your milk."
Petty resentment soured Luna's mood into something far worse, a stinky cheese of malodorous melancholy. Overcast deserved life; he deserved to live as a punishment. Sulky and petulant, Luna had no choice but to pull herself together, because her sense of duty demanded it. As much as she wanted to go elsewhere so that she might have a good pout, circumstance would not allow it.
"Were you really wanting to die?" Wednesday asked of her classmate.
"Do you really want to live in a world with tribalist milk cartons?" he responded.
"Yes," she said to him, "if it meant that I could maybe right a wrong or make things better."
"You don't mean that." After a deep breath, Overcast groaned, then looked away. "You're just as selfish and self-absorbed as everypony else. Oblivious to the suffering all around you. The misery. All we do is hurt each other. Again and again. I've heard how you talk. I've heard what you've had to say and I--"
"If I would have known that somepony was listening, I wouldn't've said those things."
"And that's my point, Wednesday. You're not sorry. Not at all. Not even in the slightest. You're only sorry that you got caught."
"Alright you sad little weirdo... if I'm such an awful pony, why did you carry me up the stairs?"
"Because," Overcast said, and a sardonic smile yanked and pulled at his lips, "I wanted all the suffering for myself. Now, I'm miserable and achy and hurting and my brain is threatening to drip out of my nose, and I have an excuse to spend the whole evening in my room. And maybe all of tomorrow. My solitude will be glorious."
"I can change!" Wednesday shouted.
"No, you can't. Oh, you think you can. But you--"
"You're about to have a side of hoof sandwich with your chocolate milk, buster! Now drink! You don't get to tell me what I can and cannot change! Drink!"
Much to Luna's surprise and relief, Overcast drank. He would recover soon enough, once he had some nourishing liquid in him. She considered giving him a banana candy or two. They were right there in the drawer, waiting for somepony to eat them. Alas, poor Wednesday's mood was thoroughly ruined as well, and she scowled at the colt with bared, clenched teeth. None of Overcast's classmates had cared enough to help him, so this was probably new to him. As for Wednesday, she'd no doubt learned that her actions, even those done in private or secret, had consequences. She struck Luna as being the sort of mindful filly that really would take this lesson to heart.
Just as she was about to say something to praise Wednesday, Luna heard the sounds of hooves upon the stairs just outside.
The colt that came through the door appeared lost, as if he had no idea what he was doing here, or why. He entered with great hesitation, paused while in the doorway, and had himself a look around. Everything about him screamed exceptional refinement and excessive dullness. Not stupidity, but an aura of uninterestingness so tangible that it made one drowsy to look upon him. He was obviously a foal of old money, pampered and spoiled beyond the point of no return.
When he had seen all there was to see, he chose to stare a-gawp at Overcast, but at some point he realised that he was being rude. Luna could see the very second it happened, because the pompous little foal shuddered, blinked, and turned away. Casting a distasteful expression at his very surroundings, he strode through the door and only stopped when he was a respectful distance away from Luna.
"Why, hallo, Princess. Fancy meeting you here. Not sure what I'm doing here. Tried to be reasonable."
The colt was dull grey with blue hints, or perhaps dull blue with grey highlights. It was impossible to tell. What colouration he did have that was only mildly off-putting was his mane and tail, which were the colour of sun-bleached bricks, a sort of reddish-brown colour that absolutely refused to commit to either red or brown, but failed to find any sort of satisfying middle ground. He was like a disinteresting wall that cried out for a bit of graffiti or maybe a few playbills--or perhaps an extensive remodeling.
One day, this colt would grow up and be entrusted with the machinery of society, which would be well-oiled, maintained, cared for lovingly, and would never change. The long trip up the stairs had not left him breathless--not even a little--and Luna suspected that the colt was subjected to a regimen of tennis, or perhaps something a lot less exciting, like badminton, where the most thrilling thing that happened was the whistling through one's teeth when shouting, "Gosh, yes!"
"Do you have a name?" asked Luna, who fought the sudden urge to return to bed.
"I am Top Notch, firstborn of Silver Platter and Tally Ho, inheritor of--"
"This is detention," Luna deadpanned. "Not genealogy. Why are you here?"
"Well, I don't know. I mean, I know, but I'm not sure what happened. Been something of a troubling day." The colt sniffed once, and that became a persistent sniffle. Liquid sadness welled up in his eyes and his bottom jaw quivered. "Never been in trouble before. This is all very new to me."
"Top Notch--"
"Call me Topper," he said with artificial cheeriness, which was not the same as cheerfulness, in much the same way that sweetness was not sugar.
"Topper, go and sit down. Wait for detention to begin. Also, you should probably be prepared to talk." Extending her wing, Luna gestured at a nearby bench. "Welcome to detention, Topper."
Little Nurse Wednesday Waterkey scowled at her patient and had an atrocious bedside manner, which Luna approved of. When it came to Overcast, Luna had no doubt whatsoever that the wretched, woebegone little colt was thoroughly enjoying himself and was delighted with his current state of dolorous anguish. Perhaps too much so. As for Top Notch, he vacillated between putting on a brave face and almost bursting into tears. Tonight, when she visited Twilight Sparkle in Ponyville, there would be much to discuss. Perhaps too much for just one night.
But, if one peered through a critical eye, there was progress. Little Nurse Wednesday Waterkey was no longer the Invisible Filly as she believed herself to be. She was quite visible to Overcast, and her ferocious frown broadcasted her current state of emotion. Overcast had demonstrable proof that he was not quite as alone and isolated as he thought, and that at least one of his fellow classmates had some sense of care about him, even if that attention came at the cost of bared teeth. The miserable little git deserved all of it and more.
As for his quip about passive suicide, Luna was going to sort him out later.
How, exactly, depended largely upon whatever advice Twilight had to offer.
As Luna considered Top Notch, she began to wonder just how many wounds had festered here in this place. Perhaps everypony had gone about this all wrong. It might be said that the very concept of detention itself was flawed--and served only to exacerbate problems in the worst way. With a cool, almost-but-not-quite collected stare, she pondered that the very tower itself was part of the problem, inaccessible as it was.
The nurse's office was centrally located and easily accessible. Of course, the nurse's office dealt with injuries, aches, pains, tummy troubles, headaches, and other sundry garden variety ailments. So what made detention any different? Luna saw before her injured students; not in the body, as one might expect, but in the mind, which was far more difficult to see. Both Overcast and Wednesday had abandoned home to come and live at the school--but the school had failed them. Their injuries, such as they might be, had gone undiagnosed and untreated.
Luna decided that this was wholly unacceptable and that she would do something about it.
It wasn't so much that her sister Celestia had neglected the school, Luna considered, but that the caretakers that Celestia trusted with her passion project were neglectful in their duties. Which was unacceptable and left poor Luna irked in the worst possible way. Without a spare pair of eyes, Celestia's most beloved institution had suffered. Nopony could show as much love and care as Celestia--and Luna rather doubted that she was up for the task. She had her own problems. But, neither could she turn away. While she doubted that she could run the entire school, or to even perform as an administrator, she knew that she could save a few students from themselves.
It was something that she would discuss with Twilight tonight.
"So, Topper... what happened?" asked Wednesday.
This surprised Luna, who hadn't expected the No-Longer Invisible Filly to initiate the conversation. It seemed as though Top Notch hadn't expected it either, as he now squinted at Wednesday with a confused and rather bewildered expression. Students helping students? Was such a thing possible? Or perhaps the better question might be to ask, was it a good idea? Luna did not know; these were unfamiliar skies and treacherous waters. Overcast was certainly a danger to the process, whatever the process might be, but he also had potential.
"I always thought that detention was all about suffering in silence," Top Notch said to Wednesday. "Not that I've ever been to detention before. I've never even been in trouble before. This is all very confusing."
"I'm sure it is," Wednesday said as she relaxed a little and showed just a smidge of gentleness for her patient. "Was for me as well. Yesterday, I came to detention, and it wasn't what I expected. As for today, I came here on my own. I'm not even in trouble. I just... I just had nowhere else to go."
"You mean I carried you up the stairs for--"
"Yes, Overcast! Now shut up!"
"That makes me feel so much worse. Thank you."
"Will you stop being weird?" she asked of the colt bundled up in a blanket.
"Never."
For Overcast to have hauled Wednesday up all those stairs... how? Luna considered this, her thoughts straying, and she wondered how he'd accomplished this feat. Wednesday was dainty enough, but even seemingly dainty fillies were surprisingly heavy. Plus, she had leg braces, there was her trumpet case, and Overcast's bookbag, which he dragged everywhere. There were a lot of stairs--an unmerciful number of stairs considering the tower had to be well-over one-hundred feet tall--and somehow a young colt had mustered up the magic to make this happen.
Of course, the same young colt had figured out a remote listening spell, on his own.
Something was amiss; how had such talent gone unnoticed?
Luna's mood suffered a violent shift towards hot rage. Too much rage, given the situation. She fought to calm herself, to keep control, and she very much wanted to vent her temper. But on what, or who? What good would it serve? Why was she even this angry? Was such passionate fury even warranted? Drawing in a deep breath, her now-parched throat turned scratchy. Seconds passed, each one succumbing to the unstoppable progression of time.
"Look, you might as well talk about it," Wednesday said to Top Notch. "Overcast probably knows all there is to know about you. Um, it's for the best if you don't ask too much about that. But trust me when I say that Overcast knows. So, he knows, and I'd rather like to help you, if I can, because he helped me and now I feel... um... indebted?"
Then, she added, "If we don't help each other, who will?"
"I've never been in trouble before."
"So, Topper," Wednesday began, "how did you get into trouble today?"
The stuffy colt squirmed on his bench, wriggled this-a-way and that-a-way, sliding from side to side, until at last he replied, "I asked Hidden Gem to the dance."
Wednesday's eyes narrowed in such a way that only happened when a contemptible classmate they couldn't stand was mentioned. Luna watched the interaction, knowing, waiting, and curious. As for Overcast, his bloodshot eyes were alive with pain--which was preferable to his typical dead-eyed stare. He had his lips puckered around a straw and slurped up some much-needed nourishment, what he needed to replenish himself after his endeavours.
"Hidden Gem is just perfect," Top Notch said whilst he began to study his hoof. "My father says she's a crown jewel. A suitable accomplishment. A fine catch. So, obeying his wise instruction, as I always do, I asked her to the dance, and that was how I got into trouble."
"Well, what happened, exactly?" asked Wednesday.
"I just told you," Top Notch replied.
"Um, what did she say? How did she respond?"
"Oh. Well. She refused me. Rather rudely, I might add. I protested."
Luna settled in for what was sure to be a long detention.
"She told you no and you got upset about it?" asked Wednesday.
"Well," Top Notch replied, "I didn't get upset until later. But I tried negotiating. I was very sociable, and did all the right things. She refused to listen. She refused to negotiate. What would happen to society if we all just refused to negotiate? I demanded that she listen to me and give me a chance. I wanted to show her what sort of pony I was, and how she would surely change her mind once I had a chance to present myself at my very best. But she just kept telling me no."
"Hidden Gem has a right to say no," Overcast mumbled as the straw slipped from his lips. A long ribbon of drool accompanied it, stretching until it broke and dribbled down onto the blanket wrapped around him.
"And I have a right to be heard," Top Notch replied. "Surely there is some means to reach reconciliation."
"Top Notch, I don't know how to break this to you, but Hidden Gem likes other fillies."
These words crashed over Top Notch like a wave over a rock--and absolutely nothing happened. Nothing at all. He just sat there, unmoving, scarcely blinking, as if he tried to think great thoughts--but could not. Luna determined that Top Notch wasn't terribly bright, but nor was he stupid. He just completely lacked social intelligence, and so she sympathised with him.
"I don't see what that has to do with anything," he said with agonising slowness. "If given a chance, I'm positive that she will grow to like me. Why does that even matter?"
"Is this guy for real?" Overcast whispered to Wednesday, his nurse.
Only Luna's alicorn ears could hear such softly-spoken words.
Wednesday seemed to choose her next words with great care, and she drew in a deep breath before she said them. "Topper, this isn't something that will change."
"Well, why not?" the slow colt asked. "Ponies change their mind all the time. It's just a matter of making a choice."
"She'll never choose to like you," Wednesday said with great patience.
"Well, why not?" Repeating his own words, Top Notch became frustrated. "I presented myself well. I made a good case for myself. I have the right family and the right bloodlines and as far as I am aware, I have no glaring defects."
Much to Luna's surprise, Wednesday tried a different approach.
"Topper... has anypony ever told you no?"
"Well, no. Never. At home, I am given a chance to make reasonable requests and present my reasons as to why my request is valid. Sometimes, I am made to debate with my parents and I am forced to work exceptionally hard to present my case. We have logical and rational discussions about my needs versus my wants. As for the staff and the help, they've always said yes to my requests, as befits them."
Overcast had his eyes closed at the moment, and was thankfully silent. As for Wednesday--the current focus of Luna's attention--the filly seemed lost in thought. Which was good, because it meant that she was thinking about what she had to say. Would she rise to the challenge? Could she help Top Notch, who really was clueless and in need of some friendly assistance? Or was Luna in the wrong, and this was a case of the inmates running the asylum?
"Topper... why is taking Hidden Gem to the dance so important to you? Surely, there are other fillies. Why not ask them? Why not just accept what you've been told and move on?"
"Because," he replied, somewhat hesitant, "my father asked me to take her. I do not wish to disappoint him. He was very direct about it and presented an excellent case. Flawless logic, at least as far as I am aware. I couldn't find the basis for an argument."
"Have you ever told your father no?" asked Wednesday.
This caught Top Notch off guard, and the colt's face contorted into a wizened mess of wrinkles, which made him look prematurely aged. His mouth opened, but when no words came, he closed it, no doubt for the sake of decorum. After his mouth shut, his ears pivoted, which caused the wrinkles on his face to wiggle. What was at first glance a simple question had left the young colt in quite a state of awkward distress, and Luna's heart swelled within her breast.
"You've never told your father no." Wednesday inhaled, her braces creaked as she tried to find a comfortable position to sit, and then she shook her head. "You've lived in a house where nopony tells anypony no."
In response, Top Notch huffed, his cheeks swelled, then he puffed, and then, after all of that, he moaned slightly while rubbing his stomach. Averting his eyes, he finally responded, "Well, it's rather rude, the whole business of saying no. Unreasonable, really. If you do not ask frivolous questions or have ridiculous requests, you will not get told no. My father made a reasonable request. What was I to do? Now I've failed him. How do I go home and face him?"
"It's the other way around," Overcast said, opening his eyes slowly and then blinking rapidly. "Your father failed you. As fathers do. I think that you'll find that everypony fails everypony at some--"
"Overcast, so help me, you're about to eat a hoof sandwich!"
"I'm not wrong," he said to her, shying away. Then, quite without warning, he snatched the chocolate milk carton out of her magic and held it between his front hooves. "Stupid horn refuses to work. Entropy, I guess. The inevitable happens. I'm already decaying. It will all be over soon now that I've hastened my own end."
Somehow, Wednesday Waterkey performed what could only be described as a legendary eyeroll. Little ponies could go the entirety of their lives never seeing one of these rare occurrences, these once-in-a-lifetime events. They were spectacular, curiously beautiful, and truly a spectacle to behold. Luna had seen three of them thus far, and witnessing the forth filled her with a profound sense of wonder. It was a reminder that there were still fantabulous things to be treasured in the world, but one had to be patient and wait to witness them.
"Ow!" Wednesday hollered as she attempted to raise a front hoof to press against her eye. But she failed because the hinges in her brace would not allow her leg to bend in such a way. "I think I pulled something!"
"Enjoy it while it lasts," Overcast said to her with sincere warmth and enthusiasm.
Of course, this did not endear him to her and she shot him a dark look to warn him that he was on dangerously thin ice. Luna found herself somewhat charmed by the incorrigible misfit, which meant that she was most certainly one of the patients in the asylum. As for Top Notch, he wore a befuddled but somewhat amused expression, like a tourist who saw a quaint window display filled with regional cheeses that had unpronounceable names.
"Now my head hurts," Wednesday whined.
"If I had a head like that," Overcast said whilst clutching his carton of milk between his clumsy hooves, "it would hurt too."
Miffed, but lacking a suitable comeback, Wednesday ignored Overcast and returned her attention to Top Notch. "So what happened after you were turned down?"
"I became upset, that's what happened." A thick frown appeared on Top Notch's face. "Some of my classmates mocked me. Then I was mad and I don't recall ever being angry before. Upset, certainly. But hot-blooded anger? Never. Had myself a bit of a meltdown. Made a fool of myself, I suppose. But that wasn't the worst of it."
"You mean it gets better?" Overcast asked.
"There's something wrong with him," Top Notch said to Wednesday.
"Oh, I know. There's a lot wrong with him. But what about you? What happened?"
"It's hard to remember, actually... I, well, I was... no, there was..." Top Notch forced himself to stop, shook his head, took a deep breath, and then he tried again. "Was really peculiar, now that my head has cleared. Miss Prickly Pear pulled me aside. She pulled me into the broom closet, actually. The smell of soap made me want to sneeze. As I was having my meltdown, she was there with me... and she said something, I can't remember what. It was strange. Really strange. I was crying so hard that I saw lights flashing in front of my eyes.
"Everything I kept inside just flowed right out, and then I felt curiously drained somehow. Just... empty. Like... it was almost like life had lost all meaning and there was no point in going on. I went off to lunch and then I felt better. But I still feel off, even now. I suppose that's the aftereffects of an emotional blowout. But... well, a part of me wants to be angry about all of this, on account of just how unfair it all is, but I still feel so, well, drained and empty. Like I lack the energy to be emotional."
Overcast, wrapped in his oversized blanket, looked rather like a hooded mystic. "Miss Prickly Pear is one of Princess Cadance's wedding planners. She keeps telling Princess Cadance the time is now, and she's hungry, and they should have the feast. But Princess Cadance keeps telling her to wait for the wedding."
Then, in a much lower voice he added, "I don't trust Miss Prickly Pear. The things she says..."
"I've learned my lesson, I think. Won't make the same mistake twice." Top Notch licked his lips, blinked once, and then rubbed both of his forelegs against his well-fed barrel. "What do I tell my dad? How do I sort this out?"
"Well, to start," Overcast said in a weak voice, "you tell him that ponies aren't prizes to be won. Ponies aren't furniture, or accessories to match your home decor and lifestyle. You don't pick them out because they're a good fit. Ponies are not rugs that you walk on."
"I made that mistake." Wednesday bowed her head in shame. "I picked the sort of friends that were good for my future. Bad mistake. Awful." Her braces creaked as her body shifted, and she leaned closer to Overcast. "You know, if you keep that up, I could end up as your friend. I might even hug you to make you feel better."
In response, Overcast's eyes narrowed, and the skin of his nose wrinkled in disgust. "You wouldn't dare."
"Try me," she said with a mischievous smirk. But her smirk turned upside-down and she retreated back away from Overcast with fearful eyes. "If you had died carrying me up the stairs, what would have happened to me?"
"None of my concern." The moody colt shrugged. "I'd've been dead. Why would it matter?"
"I could have plummeted to my death!"
"And so few seconds to enjoy it--"
"You creep!" She bared her teeth at him once more. "You just wait, you'll get yours."
"Probably." He nodded. "I am very deserving."
"You know..." A shift of mood caused Wednesday to lean in close to Overcast once more. "It feels good to talk again. To care. I got lonely. When you offered to help me up the stairs today... it made me... well, it made me feel something. Something came back to me, like birds returning in the spring. Thank you, Overcast."
"Don't make this weird," the colt whispered.
"I think it's too late for that," Wednesday replied. "Today has taught me that I want to help other ponies. That's why I came to detention. As much as I like tooting my own horn"--she smiled, pleased with her own joke--"I think it helps me to help others."
Clearing his throat, Top Notch had this to say: "I got sent to detention because I behaved like an uncivilised boor. A vulgarian. But... I'm glad I came. You've given me a lot to think about, and for that, I am thankful. Really! Honestly. Sincerely! It's been strange, but my mother says I should expose myself to new and unfamiliar things so that I'll appreciate just how good I have it."
Both students turned to look at Overcast, but it was Wednesday who asked, "And what did you do today?"
"What didn't I do?" Overcast replied with an air of criminal vagueness.
"For what crime against equinity were you caught?" asked Luna, who cursed her own sudden interest.
Overcast grinned. It was not a wholesome grin. In fact, it wasn't much of a grin at all. More like a wolf's grin, just before it licked its chops and had a delightful meal of pony. It was a malfeasant facial contortion that revealed far too much of Overcast's inner nature. It was the same grin that Luna had flashed a thousand times, and would flash a thousand more. In fact, it was the selfsame smirk that she had worn walking out of her sister's room after rearranging all of the furniture.
For the very first time in all of her long and storied existence, Luna found herself afraid of a foal.
Wearing a stern, almost matronly expression, Wednesday asked, "What did you do?"
Life returned to Overcast's eyes. They were vivid now, with scary chilling warmth. His smirk became a scalene triangle, which revealed a somewhat crooked tooth that had twisted sideways. Wrapped in the blanket, which rather looked like a hooded cowl, he made for an excellent villain, albeit a very tiny and frail one. But the reveal, like so many other aspects of him, was all for show, as evidenced by how his expression turned deadpan and neutral once more.
"I teleported a frog into the teacher's lounge watercooler and I--"
"And it didn't die?" Wednesday interrupted, evidently unable to stop herself from her sudden outburst.
"Not this one." Eyes distant for a second, Overcast shook his head. "It's tricky to move matter through the glass. I kept failing, and not knowing why." He turned to look right at Luna, his eyes filled with adoration and worshipful zeal. "Princess Luna taught me how to focus. I felt my way through the glass and kept everything intact."
"Oh bother," Luna gasped, and she was certain that there'd be consequences for her actions.
Dreadful consequences.
"The eyes lie," he continued. "Especially in water. It's like how light bends in a pool. If you use your eyes, the frog will die. I relied upon my perception." He winked.
Luna shuddered.
"I had to feel my way around and touch the place where I wanted the frog to go. And the frog arrived dead center in the water bottle. And not half-in and half-out like so many other attempts."
"Oh, that's gruesome," Top Notch remarked.
"Yeah, I grew some today," Overcast said, flashing his scalene triangle smirk once more. "Carried a rather heavy filly up the stairs. Her back-half weighed a ton and--"
Wednesday's interjection came out as a low feral growl. "You say one more word and you will die. I will kill you with kindness."
Before Overcast could respond, Princess Luna interrupted, saying, "I think we're done here. But we're not done. I propose that we leave early, and go have supper together. Fellowship is what we need, and the school cafeteria is a far more conducive environment for making friends. The sharing of bread makes for propitious circumstances so that bonds might develop."
She drew in a deep breath before she continued, "Things need to change. For all of us. For the school. I am going to seek out some advice and then I will need to make some difficult decisions." With kindness on her face, she drew in Wednesday's attention. "I will have a guard posted at the entrance to the tower. He will help you with the stairs, because let us face it, you will return. It is as you said, you had nowhere else to go. I would like your help as a volunteer. Surely, there will be others who come in need of help."
"What about Overcast?" asked Wednesday.
"I doubt we could keep him away," replied Luna. "But he will need to clean up his act."
"I don't need to clean up my act... you need to clean up society. For me to exist, there has to be the right conditions to create me, when those conditions disappear, so will I."
The biting criticism stung and had a ring of truth, even if it were a grandiose statement with an impossible directive. Luna felt the need for reform--at least here in the school--was obvious. She bowed her head, nodded, and then felt a great deal of concern when she saw the stark sadness on Overcast's face. He took no joy in his admonishment, no pleasure. When he hung his head, Luna felt like doing the same.
Sighing, she felt her stomach threatening to growl.
"Come," she said to her detainees. "Let us go and have a pleasant conversation over supper. I want you to tell me what you think needs to change here in the school. If you can do that in a constructive, sincere way, I would truly appreciate it. Top Notch, do you think that you could carry Overcast's book bag and Wednesday's trumpet case? I have two foals that I must carry down the stairs. Your kindness would be appreciated."
"Glad to be of service, Princess Luna!" |
Lunatic Fringe | Twilight Sparkle & Spike | Luna was stricken with a powerful melancholy as she drifted down from Canterlot. It struck from out of the blue, which is to say it came out from something blue, and she was very blue indeed. When things came from out of the blue, she always felt responsible, which made Luna a very responsible pony. If something went wrong, she was somehow responsible. This profound sadness seemed to add weight to her body, or maybe it conspired with gravity to thwart her somehow.
The same forces conspired against her sister when she stepped on the scales.
Luna plummeted like a leaden snowflake towards the faint lights of Ponyville below. It was dark now, well into the evening, and the sun had long since gone to bed. The weight became a living thing, something that crawled through her guts and the tug she felt inside of her felt as though this wretched mass threatened to tear its way free from her stomach. It was almost unbearable, but she would endure. Unless of course, she failed to do so, and then who knew what might happen.
When she had left the company of her detainees, Overcast had convinced Wednesday to play him a sad song on her trumpet. And what a sad song it was. Beautiful, haunting, a soulful wailing sound that stirred one's humours. It took very little convincing on Overcast's part to get Wednesday to turn the school's cafeteria into a concert hall. No doubt, it had caused the black bile to flow, which was most certainly responsible for Luna's sudden shift in mood. If a bit of sorrow was the cost of such pulchritudinous music, it was worth it.
Luna would endure so that she might hear such sweet sounds yet again.
Once, a very long time ago, an exceptionally long time ago, though for Luna it felt as though it was just a few years ago--a feeling that greatly worsened her mood--something had come out of the blue during a rather important formal feast. What had come out of the blue was unmentionable, and the aftermath involved a rapid evacuation of the feast hall, with all of the guests going to the mead hall so that they might recover from the latest out of the blue incident with plenty of strong drink.
The whole affair was so sordid, so scurrilous and scandalous, that it was immortalised in a play called Yon Ill Wind, which caused the playhouse to be sold out for an entire moon. Of course, the real shame was that the play was wholly forgotten, because Luna herself had passed into myth during her long absence. An entire cultural milestone dispersed on the winds of change--which thankfully had nothing to do with Luna and she was in no way responsible.
Ponyville awaited.
The Ponyville Library was dark, save for but a few lights in the living quarters. It was also locked, not that it mattered. A lock hadn't been invented that could keep Luna out--not even the really fancy ones that her sister had commissioned to protect her diaries and her journals and her treasure chest full of war trophies and knick-knack-bric-a-brac. These locks were mundane and would only keep the double door secured against the most common of intruders.
As Luna stood there, peering at the locks in the moonlight, she knew that Overcast would be able to open them with very little effort, if any was even required at all. This troubled her somewhat, but it also made her feel good. Though, feeling good about it made her feel guilty--but said guilt was somewhat pleasurable, like eating a pilfered cookie or delighting in ill-gotten gains.
Something had to be done with Overcast--but what exactly was unknown. Luna knew how this path ended, because she had walked it herself. Isolation. Delighting in the misery of others. A general lack of conscience. Why, he'd even cut himself off from his parents, who surely loved him a great deal and probably had no idea why their son hated them. It pained Luna, but she knew the final outcome would be villainy if something wasn't done. Such dark potential had to be dealt with before the worst possible outcome happened.
Turning her body into vaporous shadow, Luna poured herself through the keyhole.
Somepony was singing. More specifically, Twilight Sparkle was singing. To be exact, Twilight Sparkle was singing and she did so in the shower. So, she was a shower-singer, just like Celestia. How very droll. Only the most annoying of optimists sang in the shower, in Luna's experience. Of course, it could also be that Twilight sang while soaking in the tub, that was also an option. To know the truth, one would have to intrude--which was exactly what Luna decided to do.
She drifted, spilling from tenebrous shadow to shadow, formless and without body. But not without perception. She could still see, still hear, she could touch and experience sensation. While she understood how this worked, it would be impossible to explain to a common little pony without driving them barking mad. Little ponies liked to see out of two eyes, in a wholesome, regular, mundane manner. Being able to see around them in a three-hundred and sixty degree field of view in all conceivable directions overloaded their little pony brains, gave them headaches, and left them a drooling mess.
One day, she might very well grant Overcast The Sight, because the little stinker had it coming.
So, Twilight Sparkle wasted a perfectly opportune time for meditation and self-reflection with shower singing. Little ponies randomly burst out into song, on occasion. Of course, big ponies did too, much to Luna's dour consternation. It was like some kind of curse. Life might already be perfectly dreadful, boring, and tedious, when all of a sudden the urge to start singing would strike like lightning. It was an especially perfidious magic, one that inflected possession upon the body and made one flail about whilst caterwauling and inciting a state of bedlam.
Worst of all, during Luna's entire one-thousand year absence, no cure had been found.
Twilight Sparkle sang a nauseating tune about casting one's troubles into bubbles and then popping them one by one, which somehow absolved one of all their tribulations. It was the worst sort of rubbish, saccharine, sickly-sweet, and an outright falsehood. One simply did not cast one's troubles into bathtime bubbles and--oh no! Luna felt it gnawing at her consciousness! The dreadful urge to join in and sing!
Left with no other choice, she had to ruin the moment; she had to ruin Tubtime Troubadour Twilight Sparkle's song and dance number before Luna herself could be infected with this malignant magical malady. Luna had no desire whatsoever to pour her heart out in a heartfelt duet with her sister's prized and much-beloved apprentice. Already, the urge was terrifyingly strong, and gaining strength with each passing second.
Teeth bared in a wolfish smile, Luna materialised like a grim spectre right beside the tub, an ill-omen, a dire sign of worse fates yet to come. When she was mostly solid, she said, "We bid thee a good even, Twilight Sparkle."
Naturally, Twilight Sparkle responded in much the same way any little pony taking a bath might respond when the embodiment of nighttime terrors manifested right next to the bath in which they sat and smiled at them. She screamed. Her silly song became a shriek of terror, reaching a pitch that would surely disrupt the biological directives and reproductive urges of the local bat populations. Eyes wide, uvula wagging from side to side, Twilight Sparkle produced a truly impressive volume, one worthy of praise.
The soap--her soap--levitated aloft in a magenta dweomer fell prey to gravity when her magic failed. There was a satisfying "THADONK!" sound when the soap struck the sidewall of the wrought iron clawfooted tub; it then bounced, rising up in a resplendent arc, and then much to Luna's amusement, the soap went into Twilight Sparkle's wide-open wailing maw, where it was promptly swallowed in an accidental manner to prevent an unhealthy bout of airway restriction.
It was no different than swallowing a horse pill, and at least the soap was slippery.
Having witnessed an entirely logical but extremely chaotic series of random events, Luna beamed. Her earlier melancholy took wing and her recalcitrant humours did an on the spot correction. At least Twilight was no longer screaming. The poor young mare wagged and waggled and waved her tongue about while her eyes crossed and uncrossed, as one did when one swallowed a bar of soap. Luna took in every detail, every sound, every bit of sensory input and committed them to memory, because Twilight Sparkle would relive this moment in dreams for decades to come.
Her hind legs kicked against the tub as she thrashed about, shuddering, and the waves Twilight created splashed over the sides of the tub, soaking Luna. Tub thumping, the unicorn flailed about, no doubt suffering some distress from the taste left on her tongue. Luna might have sympathised, but she was far too amused at the moment. Enough amusement for two, if one took the Royal We into consideration.
"Blargh!" Twilight blarghed, no doubt blarghing blarghily to clear her soapy throat.
"Blargh?" Luna's mimicry was a perfect match.
"Blargh!" Twilight blarghed again. "My thungue! My thungue thasthes badth!"
"Yes, one might imagine that your tongue does taste like bath. Though with that grammar, it seems as though your tongue was in need of a good scrubbing."
"No, badth! Badth! My thungue thasthes therribthle!" More water and suds were flung willy-nilly when Twilight began to wave her forelegs around. "Geth outh!"
"We are going to fix some tea, Twilight Sparkle, and We would be delighted if you would join Us. We shall be in your kitchen, making Ourselves at home. Please, join Us at your earliest convenience."
"Geth outh! Geth outh!"
Chuckling to herself, Luna retreated and left the soap-swallower to recover on her own.
The kitchen was a tiny space, barely more than a nook. Luna liked kitchens; she liked being domestic. There was something wholesome and good about the mindless work found within a kitchen. Being who and what she was, she didn't get much of a chance to put her domestic skills to use, but relished the rare opportunities when the moon and stars aligned in such a way that fortuitous circumstance allowed her to do what she was about to do right now.
Absolutely no soot marred the perfectly clean wood-burning stove and Luna knew right away that Twilight used magic for heat. She found a tea kettle, but when she opened the cupboard door, she found books. Not what she expected. Peering in, Luna examined the books in the cupboard, and discovered that they were all kitchen related; cook books, food culture, a twenty-seven volume anthology about the history of kitchens--which also included a visual guide--and quite the collection of teatime romance novels, in which ponies had romantic encounters whilst consuming hot cuppas. These were the most wholesome, most innocent of romance novels; the ponies within did nothing more than cast longing glances at one another, batting one's eyelashes, or leaning in close with the table as a chaperpone between them.
The only steamy happenings in these novels were the freshly poured cups of tea.
When Luna opened the next cupboard over, she felt a hot stab of frustration right in whatever organ housed her reserves of patience. More books. Not food, as one might reasonably expect, but books about food. Guides to edible mushrooms, encyclopedias of nutritious roots, several sizable guides about how to eat bugs and grow to appreciate them, and one very helpful novel about how to stock one's pantry--which Twilight had obviously neglected to read.
As for the third cupboard... Luna slammed it shut before she could discover which books had been stashed in there. Surely Twilight had plates, dishes, cups, glasses, saucers, and the like. But where? Stepping out of the cramped kitchen, Luna had a good look around, but found nothing obvious. She turned about, trying to make sense of things, and that was when she noticed the narrow door. A broom closet, no doubt. Or some kind of closet.
When she opened the door, she found several telescopes--but nothing else.
Reaching out with her wing, she began to rub her temple in a familiar way. This is what happened when irresponsible school administrators allowed Home-Ec to become an elective class for the gifted students, who, in all of their powerful brilliance, could not be bothered to learn how to keep a home. Would Luna have to take it upon herself to teach Home-Ec? That seemed likely.
Stepping back into the kitchen, she had another look around, but remained baffled.
She was Luna; Princess of the Night. The Night Princess. Lady of Darkness. Destroyer of Grogar. She had rained down fire and brimstone upon cities for offenses far less than this current source of upset. So dangerous and frightening was she that not even Tartarus could contain her, and so she'd been bound to the moon, lest she rule Tartarus as its Queen within the hour of her arrival. Yet for all of her supposed power, Luna found herself stymied by Twilight's kitchen.
"In the modern parlance," she muttered to herself, "what the actual fu--" But before the word could be finished, she noticed a small, somewhat fearful looking and incredibly sleepy baby dragon. She considered him briefly, watched as he wiped the corner of one eye with his claws, and the faint scent of woodsmoke permeated the kitchen.
"I heard a bump in the night," he said.
"I am the one who goes bump in the night," she replied. "None may dare bump in my domain, lest they be bumped themselves."
"Kinda rude." His claws flexed, his tail bobbed, and the tiny wyrmspawn peered up at her with curious draconic eyes. "How's a baby dragon supposed to get any sleep?"
"Spike"--her words turned soft and sweet--"where does Twilight keep the plates and dishes? The teacups? The tea?"
Claws out, as if reaching, Spike waddled into the cramped kitchen, went to a low cupboard door, and pulled it open. "Everything is kept where I can reach it. She insists. Twilight doesn't want me to fall down off the counter and hurt myself."
"I see," Luna said, and the logic of it all made her brain ache.
"Do you need me to heat up the teakettle?" he asked. "I've gotten really good at it. I have! I promise. I hardly ever hiccup and accidentally send the kettle off to Princess Celestia."
Well, that would explain the bumps, bruises, and random headaches, as well as the clean stove.
The dragon looked up at her expectantly, with faint excitement glimmering in his eyes. Celestia was no doubt asleep at this hour. If Spike sent a kettle by mistake, it could be rather amusing. Not that Luna would ever make Spike hiccup or cause an accident. But... if he did hiccup, this could be entertaining. With a regal sweep of her wing, and a bow of her noble head, she stepped aside--and bumped her royal backside into one rather chilly icebox.
"Ah!" Then, rapidly composing herself, she said to Spike, "Your assistance is necessary."
"I'm a really tough dragon," he said, still sleepy. "It's not like a fall off the counter would hurt me. I'm a big dragon!"
"Indeed, you are," Luna agreed as Spike went to work.
With Spike's assistance and Luna's magic, the late night meal and tea did not take long. It felt good to be domestic, but it felt even better to have company. Spike was surprisingly adept in the kitchen, and Luna, in all of her long life, had never met a dragon with culinary skills. Sometimes they scorched their prey before gobbling them, but not often. Contrary to popular belief, dragons in general did not like ketchup, and never bothered with condiments.
"Princess Luna?"
"Yes, Spike?"
"Do you think... do you think that Princess Celestia will be upset about the cast iron skillet?"
"Oh no, Spike," Luna replied without hesitation, because she worried about the baby dragon's well-being. "My sister is very understanding. The skillet will return by morning, of this I am certain."
"All that hot oil, and the corn fritters." Spike sighed and his tail slapped against the floor behind him. "I was looking forward to eating those."
"So was I, Spike. So was I." Then, as Luna dumped a few sugarcubes into her cup, she said to Spike, "Your caretaker is bound to be quite ill. Twilight is due for a terrible case of bubble guts."
"Bubble guts?" asked the baby dragon, who now scooted closer to Luna.
"Yes, Spike. The frothy trots."
"Frothy trots?" He looked up at her, eyes wide and brimming with curious concern.
"The green apple splatters."
"Did Applejack make her sick?" asked Spike, still wholesome and innocent.
"No, Spike, Applejack did not." She struggled to keep a straight face, and fought against the legion of sniffle-snorts jockeying to slip out. "But Twilight will be in need of a very brave dragon--"
"I'm brave!" he announced while pointing to himself with his claw-thumbs.
"--one willing to face mortal peril--"
"There's a list," Spike said to Luna, "of all the mortal peril we've faced, including you and Discord."
Unable to finish the sentence she had started, Luna had no choice but to say another. "No evil you have faced so far will prepare you for what reckoning surely comes your way. Be brave, Spike. Be steadfast. Summon up all of your courage and should you survive this, a feast of ice cream will be your reward."
"Alright." The baby dragon--clearly not knowing what he was in for--smiled up at Luna.
Luna had situated herself on a pile of cushions in the middle of the floor, with the tray full of food and tea nearby. She lay on her stomach, almost in the loaf position, but she had her forelegs out in front of her, bent in such a way that they formed a makeshift cradle. A baby dragon rested there, and his smokey snores threatened to make her sneeze. It was a small price to pay for being warm and Luna could not help but be somewhat envious of Twilight Sparkle's scaly companion.
He'd fought to keep his eyes open, he struggled to be good company, but his efforts were doomed from the start. Now he slumbered in sweet repose, and Luna was mindful to keep his dreams pleasant, simply because she could. Spike was an innocent; thus far during his short life, he'd committed no great transgression that marred his conscience, and because of that, Luna's darkness found no purchase within his mind. Still, some dreams could be somewhat scary, or uncomfortable, or just too intense, and she spared him these encounters.
At least for tonight.
She owed him that.
"That's my dragon."
The words were chilly. Direct. Bold. Sipping some tea in an unconcerned manner, Luna measured them, weighed them, and decided that yes, Twilight would make for an excellent friendly rival. Only the best things could come from this relationship. Luna rationed out the attention she gave Twilight--a bare glance, hardly even an acknowledgement--and she swallowed her tea.
"Your devoted helper has remarkable kitchen skills. Your ceaseless nurturing produces delightful dividends."
As expected, Twilight wavered between her protective possessiveness and her need to acknowledge this glowing praise. She crossed the room, still somewhat damp, and climbed atop a pile of cushions that Luna had laid out. What she didn't do was take Spike from his comfortable place, sprawled out in the cradle of Luna's forelegs.
The game was on; how it played out depended upon the players.
"Spike should be put to bed," said Twilight. "If we talk, as I suspect that we're about to do, we'll wake him."
It was so dull, having to explain things to those who just didn't get it, but Luna maintained her sense of decorum. "Not a word will be heard by these earfrills. Sound is a sensation that is easily redirected."
"Oh." Looking down, Twilight eyeballed the food warily; for some reason, it seemed as though she had no appetite. But she did begin preparing a cup of tea. "Princess Luna, before we discuss whatever you came here to talk about, I feel that there are a few things I must mention."
"Such as what?" asked Luna, who knew her role and played it well.
"Modern ponies like privacy," Twilight replied. "We have locks. Doors. Boundaries. We have social contracts that hold us to respecting them. Ponies get upset when a stranger appears in their bathroom."
"Are We a stranger?"
"Ponies get upset if a friend pops into the bathroom unexpectedly. I don't know how it was back in the old days, but now, we have social niceties. We knock. We wait for an invitation. We respect the privacy of others because we want our own privacy respected."
"Doest thou refer to thyself in the Royal We?"
Twilight panicked. Her eyes lit aglow with sudden concern and her response came out as a hurried stammer. "W-what? No. No. No, never. I speak in the collective sense, not in--"
"So thou speakest of mob rule. Anarchy. Rebellion."
"What? No!"
A pleasant prickle warmed Luna's heart, and she chose to withdraw just a bit. She wanted a rival, not an enemy, and it was just too easy to fluster poor Twilight. With a smile, Luna revealed her intentions, and Twilight huffed with nervous laughter. After a few gasps, Twilight's laughter became sincere, warm, and was a welcome sound. Celestia's apprentice was a goof, and for that, Luna was grateful.
"You had me going there," said Twilight as she dropped a half-dozen sugarcubes into her tea. Then, just as suddenly as it had appeared, her laughter vanished. "But seriously. You might scare a pony to death. That would be bad. You and Pinkie Pie both."
"Ponies forget that the Element of Laughter once belonged to me." It was a carefully calculated move to lay her soul bare. No pretenses. No obscuring speech. Not even a bit of duplicity. Just honesty. After all, friendly rivals had to stay friendly. Luna allowed her mask to slip away and she turned herself to face Twilight, unobscured. "Don't get me wrong, Twilight. I don't mind that she has it... I'm glad that she does. She deserves it. I just wish that ponies would remember that I was once like her. And that's my problem... ponies don't remember me at all."
"I'm sorry, Princess Luna. I really am."
"Thank you."
"But seriously though. Doors exist for a reason. Locked doors even more so." Squinting, Twilight poured entirely too much cream into her tea, and just before it overflowed, she slurped up the froth. After licking her lips clean, she said, "You must respect the homes of others."
"All of Equestria is my home. Am I not welcome in my own domicile?"
Twilight did not respond right away--no doubt because she had learned her lesson. Licking some cream from the rim of her teacup, her eyes narrowed as she attempted to probe Luna's intentions. Never once taking her eyes off of Luna, Twilight lifted up a cookie and then jammed the entire thing into her mouth. The cookie, Luna could not help but note, was roughly the same size as a bar of soap.
This--this had to be what Celestia saw in Twilight. Or maybe it wasn't. Whatever it was that Celestia saw in this unicorn just wasn't discussed. This was a canny creature, while also being innocent and rather naïve. Yet, she wasn't a total dupe. Twilight had sincerity, Luna decided, and an abundance of sincerity could be mistaken for naïvete. The earnestness was charming, at least in small portions. Luna knew she was far too jaded to endure this for too long. While this realisation made her sad, it also made her feel better, though she could not say why.
"Fine," Twilight said at last. "You will always be welcomed as my guest, even unannounced, but only on the condition that you respect the privacy of others. My door will always be open to you, but only if you hold to our agreement."
"You had to know that I spoke in jest, yet you made this offer anyway. Why?"
"Because"--Twilight raised her teacup in what was almost a salute--"you need a friend. You came to me for a reason. After making yourself at home, you made food and tea in abundance. Meaning that this will be no hour-long chat, but probably an all-nighter. Which means that you either came here to pour your heart out, solve a problem, or maybe both. But you're here for a purpose. You've set out to accomplish something this night. Right now you're obviously testing me, perhaps so that you can determine what you feel safe telling me. If I give you an open door policy"-- she inhaled before she became short of breath--"you might trust me more and waste less of my time with testing."
It occurred to Luna that Twilight was not what she expected. Twice now she had underestimated her, once as Nightmare Moon and also just now, as herself, fully in control of her own mind. In a moment of hubris, Luna realised that she'd underestimated Overcast as well. Either she had grown careless or exceptionally clever ponies had become more common. She decided that her sister's wise rule allowed for more clever ponies. Celestia's focus on education and better living standards certainly showed dividends.
Of course, Luna was somewhat afraid of Overcast for some reason, but not afraid of Twilight. This young mare, this exceptional unicorn represented all of Celestia's hopes and was the result of centuries of hard work. Twilight was the sort of unicorn that came into existence only when all of the conditions were just so and the stars aligned in just such a way. In that regard, Twilight was very much like Clover the Clever.
As for Overcast, he was a warning of what might happen when the system failed potential Twilights.
High risks offered high rewards, but sometimes also brought ruination.
"I came to speak to you about my sister's school."
Suddenly, Luna had Twilight's rapt attention, and she wasn't sure what to do with it. The change that came over Twilight was almost unreal. There was a sort of worshipful adoration, but also fanatical zeal. Again, Luna thought of Overcast, because the disturbing little twerp was the same way about her. No doubt for all of the wrong reasons, which made her pending discussion with Twilight all the more important. Naturally, Twilight was reverent and protective about the epitome of what Equestria had to offer the world, all of the good things that Celestia cultivated in the fertile patch of ground that was her school. Luna realised that this is what Twilight fought for; it was why the young unicorn had risked her own neck to challenge Nightmare Moon.
If Luna were to ever rise to her sister's lofty expectations of her, she too would need a Twilight, a pony willing to put it all on the line for whatever great things Luna accomplished. The problem, as Luna saw it, was that she had accomplished nothing thus far, except for wallowing in her own self pity, playing pranks on her sister, and brooding in the dark about how tedious life was.
At the moment, all Luna had to work with was detention, a humble beginning if ever there was one. She had no school to call her own, no centuries of carefully laid groundwork and preparation, all she had was what her sister had given her, which was a headache. Luna's mood wavered between cautious optimism and warm, comfortable pessimism, which was rather like a much-beloved bed that she longed to return to.
Seeking solace in her bed would accomplish nothing.
"Recently, I was put in charge of the detention program and--"
"Excuse me. Hold on." Twilight held out her hoof in an apologetic and endearing manner. "Detention? Am I hearing this correctly?"
Luna thought for a moment about being the Princess of Detention, but this was too serious to bring that up. "Yes, Twilight. Detention. One precious hour of my day is spent with my detainees and they are sent to me as punishment."
Something went terribly wrong with Twilight's face; both of her eyes twitched in a weird way, her ears pivoted round and round, and it appeared as though she might be having a stroke. "Detention? How do they even find the time to get in trouble? Do they pencil in some time for spontaneity on their schedules? I mean, there's so much to do. Extra-credit work. Extracurricular activities. Study hours. Study halls. Library access time. How does a student of Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns ever find the time to get into trouble, much less serve an hour in detention? There's just not enough hours in a day!"
This was the most Twilightful thing ever Twilighted by Twilight, and it left Luna at a loss for words. Truly, it was a Twilightening moment, revealing much about the studious unicorn's nature. Coming here to seek Twilight's advice wasn't a mistake--but it was possible that Twilight wasn't the right pony to discuss this with, as she had considerable trouble just coming to terms with the fact that Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns had a detention program.
"Are you having another joke at my expense, Luna?"
It took Luna a few seconds, but she realised that Twilight had not addressed her as 'Princess'. That was fine, really. But it also served as a reminder of just how shocked poor Twilight was, and how difficult this surely had to be for her. Luna wrestled with the issue, unsure of how to deal with it, and after several seconds of internal debate, she remembered that technically, Twilight was still a student.
"Perhaps an hour spent in detention will help you understand just how serious I am."
"But my permanent record!" gasped Twilight, and her eye-twitches became far more pronounced.
"Oh, I would have you there as an observer," Luna said, hoping that Twilight might recover, "and not as a detainee. Twilight Sparkle, I am here because the detention program has revealed to me that my sister's school has rot. Parts of it have decayed beyond repair, and it is failing the students which it serves."
"But the school... her school... my school... that I attend... it's perfect... isn't it?"
"No, Twilight. And that's why I need your help."
Almost in a panic, Twilight poured the whole of her teacup down her gullet, swished it around a bit, and a visible lump in her throat could be seen bobbing up and down when she swallowed. She then poured another cup and then hastily began adding far too much cream and sugar. Luna knew that when Twilight recovered, things would be fine, but for now, patience was a virtue.
Spike snorted and sent up a plume of thick smoke.
Watching as the frantic unicorn composed herself, Luna became Twilightened. Which is to say that she had a much greater understanding of why her sister chose this mare to be her apprentice, her protege. Twilight was reeling, but not out. Thrown for a loop, maybe, but still in the fight. Most ponies, when having their worldview shattered and everything they believed in tossed upon the rocks and left for ruin tended to come completely undone. But not Twilight, no. It was impressive how she recovered, how she took in these new facts, and even now, at this very moment, Twilight was rebuilding herself.
Luna wanted to be envious, but such jealousy did not become her.
During her long absence, the world had changed. Profoundly. Everything that Luna once knew was gone. Beliefs had changed. Social mores. Societal values. Where a hot poker had once cured sloth, impudent laziness was allowed to see what might come of it. Luna was bewildered, lost, and struggled to reconnect. Through dreams, she rapidly picked up the new language. She had a library of millions of minds to connect to, but all of this knowledge took time to process, to internalise.
With a sinking feeling down in the depths of her bowels, Luna became certain that if Twilight faced the same circumstances--being shut away or imprisoned for a thousand years--her recovery would be assuredly swift. She would adapt. Where Luna had dreams and insightful isolation so that she might sort out her thoughts, Twilight had friends. She had wit and an open mind. In this way, Twilight was gifted--and Luna knew that she was not.
On the verge of some great understanding, Luna stumbled and failed to grasp what was just out of reach.
What Luna had was detention, and with that in mind, she prepared to tell Twilight everything.
Twilight was different now. Subdued. Thoughtful. Still. Determined. She munched on a stalk of celery smeared with peanut butter and sprinkled with raisins. The sounds of her slow chewing caused Luna's ears to prick and twitch. Luna had spared no detail, she held nothing back, and it was now well past midnight. During the long recounting, Twilight had gone through several metamorphoses, taking in the hard, bitter, unpleasant truths, never rejecting or refuting them.
Not only did Luna have the rival she always wanted, but a confidante as well.
"Well," Twilight began, almost whispering, "I've just become aware of the fact that I had a very different experience in school than my fellow schoolmates. And with that understanding, I can see how being Princess Celestia's apprentice might have--" She heaved a sigh, interrupting herself, shook her head, and her ears fell. "I don't know how to finish that sentence. I'm sorry."
Always the curious one, Luna wondered what might have been said. What great truth might have been revealed. A profound understanding remained locked away. Nursing her hot cup of tea, she took frequent slurps to soothe her throat, which was sore from all she had to say. The last bit of celery vanished into Twilight's mouth and when Luna watched the unicorn chewing, she noted the sadness to be found in her eyes.
"I constantly worry about being sent back to Magic Kindergarten," Twilight said around a mouthful of mashed celery, peanut butter, and raisins. "Have they no fear of consequences? It... it doesn't make sense to me, I'm sorry. But I'm really having some trouble with this. Right now, this feels like failure. You came to me for help and I'm not much help at all. Recently, there was a bit of a friendship problem, because there was no friendship problem, and so I created one, and let me tell you, the fear of being sent to Magic Kindergarten rules my life."
Then, almost as an afterthought, she added, "Did you know that Fluttershy beats up bears as a hobby? I had no idea."
"Fluttershy?" Luna's tea almost went down the wrong pipe. "Quiet, timid Fluttershy?"
"Wrestles bears," Twilight said with a soft nod.
"Oh my... well, that certainly paints a different picture of her."
"Just when you think you know your friends..." If there was more to say, Twilight did not say it aloud.
"Twilight, do you think that bear wrestling should be added to the curriculum? I mean, some of the students are slothful and in need of--"
"No, Luna... just no. That's a terrible idea."
"I suppose it is."
Squirming, Twilight brought up the obvious. "Students are intentionally getting into trouble so they can get help. Which concerns me. It either means they don't know how to ask for help, or have asked for help and were ignored. From what you told me about... what was his name? Overcast? It sounds as if he got in trouble for just trying to talk about it. Which leads me to believe that nopony wants to acknowledge that there might be a problem."
"Admitting that there is a problem might appear to make my sister look bad in some way."
"I hadn't thought about that," Twilight blurted out. "Well, that's a factor. Pointing out a blemish in Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns somehow also points out a blemish on Princess Celestia herself."
In amused silence, Luna thought about reporting that sentence to the Redundancy Department of Redundancy.
"Princess Celestia has to know what is going on. She just has to. I refuse to believe that she is oblivious about this. So if we operate under that assumption, that means that she's trusting you to investigate the problem, follow through with sorting it out, and finding a solution."
"Do you really believe that, Twilight?"
The question caught Twilight off guard. Luna saw it plainly, almost as if such a question shouldn't even be asked. Twilight had perfect faith in Celestia, while Luna did not. The two realities collided with a terrific impact that created a shockwave of stunned silence. Twilight, no doubt, was trying to process what was just said. Luna, for her part, couldn't even begin to imagine Twilight's viewpoint on the issue.
It didn't take Twilight long to recover, and then immediately trample the issue. "That's why you came to me, isn't it? You couldn't go to your sister and talk. There's still issues."
Brows furrowing like gathering storm clouds, Luna had nothing to say.
"You and Princess Celestia are as different as night and day," Twilight said to Luna with all the comforting sincerity she could muster. "And that's alright. You should try talking to her. Trust her. I just... I just made that mistake. Let me tell you, I really messed up. Like, almost sent back to Magic Kindergarten messed up. I was so afraid of disappointing my teacher... I was so scared of letting her down that I ended up doing exactly that when I didn't ask her for help. Just go to her, Luna. It'll be fine. I promise."
"I must confess... I've been having crazy thoughts. My paranoia has been getting the better of me. I just cannot bring myself to..." Luna's words died in her throat.
"Are you worried that if you bring this to Princess Celestia's attention that it might somehow ruin what little bit of trust you have? That she'll be disappointed with you? Fearful of you? That she might fear what you could become and will deal with you harshly before the worst happens?"
The words stung. They seemed so obvious--yet Luna had not reached this conclusion on her own. She wanted to feel stupid, to berate herself, but she wasn't alone and so the circumstances would not allow her to fly apart. With Twilight nearby, she had no choice but to hold herself together. All of the random pieces of her mind threatened to fit together, to come into focus and clarity, and Luna grew increasingly fearful of what she might see.
Unable--or perhaps unwilling--to face the truth, Luna changed the subject, but what she had to say betrayed her.
"I see so much of myself in Overcast. He's wounded in the mind, Twilight. His potential for villainy is unlike anything I've ever seen. I'm terrified of what he might become. He saw the world for what it is before he was ready. Just like I did. He saw past the illusion and found the reality unbearable."
"Then you know exactly what to do to save him." These words were bold, spoken in complete confidence, and Twilight Sparkle had absolutely no reservations in saying them. "Do everything that you wish was done for you, Luna. This is your time. This is your chance. You can't change the past. History is written down and the ink is set. What you can do is prevent history from repeating itself. If I'm right, and I'm pretty certain I am, Princess Celestia is trusting you to save what is most precious to her. Her students. We're doing her work. It's up to us to make Equestria the place that Princess Celestia envisions it to be."
"What if I fail?" Luna's voice cracked in the most embarrassing way, but she somehow found the courage to continue. "Or worse... what if I fail in such a way that the darkness consumes both of us? What might I do to Overcast? These detentions expose me to things that disturb me greatly. What if I exploit these troubling elements? What if I lead them into evil, inadvertently or intentionally? The cost of failure cannot be conceived, Twilight. I wonder sometimes if I should go into seclusion to prevent what might happen."
"If you did that, Luna, many might fall into darkness and never see the light again. You've been there. You have. I was there with you. You have experience in going into the darkness and coming back out again. Finding your way back out. Nopony else has that. That is unique and precious, Luna. Yes, you might have to go into the darkness to save a few troubled students, and yes, it might be tempting. But you have the best chance of leading them out."
"Do you really believe that, Twilight?"
"I wouldn't have said it if I didn't, Luna. There's just too much at stake for base platitudes."
"So do you believe that my sister is trusting me with what I know?"
"That seems likely."
"But I don't trust myself," Luna confessed.
"Which is why you need to talk to your sister." Resolute, Twilight leaned in closer and cast her firm gaze on Luna. "Maybe if you hear it from her it'll be easier to do whatever it is that you need to do next."
Perhaps, Luna thought to herself.
"Look at it this way, Luna. Right now, you're the only pony that really sees the problem. I'm still having trouble with it. There's a whole bunch of little voices in my head trying to convince me that this isn't what it seems, or that it somehow isn't a problem. I certainly don't want to believe that my beloved school is suffering a crisis. Just thinking about it makes me sad and it's overwhelming to even imagine that Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns might turn students to evil. It's supposed to be a place of goodness. Right now, Luna, you might be the only pony who can see the problem clearly and for what it is."
As much as she wanted to do so, Luna could not refute Twilight's logic, which ached a bit.
"And if I can be really forward for a moment, it sounds to me that the detention program really needs to go. Not because it ruins the image of perfection that is Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, but because it fails to achieve its purpose. Which is to function as a deterrent. If students are so desperate for help that they're acting out to get detention, then detention isn't going to fix anything. It does not behoove us to have Princess Celestia's best and brightest sabotaging their own future."
"Do you really think I am the right pony for the job, Twilight Sparkle?"
"I think that you're the only pony for the job, Luna. It pains me to say it, but I think everypony is blinded by your sister's brilliance. Even me."
Luna almost asked, Do you really believe that, Twilight? However, she caught herself before it could slip out. Of course Twilight believed that. It was true. If one stared at the Sun long enough, one went blind. Luna was immune though, and saw her sister's flaws as plain as day, which was saying quite a lot because her sister was the very embodiment of day. The opposite was true as well; Celestia was the only light bright enough to pierce Luna's impenetrable darkness. All of Luna's flaws, of which there were many, were laid bare by Celestia's golden light.
All of the pieces threatened to fit once more, and Luna was terrified of them.
Thoroughly disturbed and defeated, Luna decided to talk to her sister. Celestia had to be warned that there was a genuine villain hiding in plain sight. If the school could produce such brilliant minds like Twilight Sparkle, Saviour of Equestria, then surely it had the potential to create Twilight's opposite. Briefly, Luna wondered if she might be overreacting, but quickly determined that such threats should not be underestimated. Afterall, once she had been a moody, broody, sulky sort that dabbled in the dastardly arts. Nopony--not even Celestia saw the danger until it was too late, and then nothing could be done.
"I know what must be done," Luna said to Twilight. "It is as you say. I must go into the darkness and find the lost. It is my duty to lead them back to Celestia's wholesome light. Failing that"--she considered her next words with all due caution--"if a return to the light is impossible, I shall strive to repurpose what others might throw away. I've gone into the darkness and returned with a purpose. Surely others can do the same. If I don't save them, they will truly be lost. Not sure I can live with that."
"You won't be alone. I promise. Your sister will help you. I will help you. My friends will help you, if I ask them. If you lead the way, we'll follow."
"You really do believe that." This was not a question, but a statement, and saying it aloud helped to soothe Luna's troubled mind. "How is it that you believe in the best while I am stuck believing in the worst? I've seen the dreams of so many, Twilight. I know their innermost thoughts. Few can imagine what I've seen, and for the life of me, I cannot fathom why my sister is so intent to save them. But I follow where she leads, because I don't know what else to do. Anything else just feels like surrendering to despair."
"Friendship is real," Twilight said, smiling broadly and revealing far too many teeth for this time of night. "I've witnessed the magic brought about by friendship."
Luna's thoughts turned to Overcast, which is to say they turned overcast as the clouds of doubt began to blow in. Friendship was an illusion; Luna had seen the evidence in dreams, and Overcast too knew the reality. Perhaps it came down to a matter of belief, if belief could make illusion real. What might Twilight say if she saw the dreams of so many? The darkness that hid in the hearts of ponies? Would her opinions change?
No, Luna decided.
Because Celestia had taught some lesson to Twilight that Luna herself had failed to grasp. She couldn't even conceive what it was, or might be, but Twilight lived by this lesson. She'd taken it to heart and the entirety of her life, her existence was built upon this foundation. Luna knew full well the danger of believing in illusions--she'd once been devoured and swallowed whole by fantasies and phantasms of grandiose self-importance. With eternal night, with no sunlight to dispel those awful delusions, the self-serving mirage might have lasted forever.
To live as Nightmare Moon was to live a lie.
Twilight chose to believe in something that served others, sometimes even at the expense of herself. Friendship might very well be an illusion, but lost in her inward, soul-searching reflection, Luna saw a truth that she herself longed for. To have it, all one had to do was to be like Twilight. Perhaps that was the trick of making it real. If it were a trick, it was a worthy one.
When Twilight yawned, Luna felt saddened. She wanted this night to last forever. Not in the way that Nightmare Moon wanted the night to last forever, but in some confusing, bewildering way that did not rob Luna of hope, but filled her up with it in abundance. There would be other nights, Luna realised. All she had to do was be patient and wait.
"As soon as I have collected my thoughts, I will go and speak to my sister. I give you my word."
"That's... that's a relief, Luna. If you need help, just ask. You have my word as well. My door will always be open if you are in trouble."
"If we are to be friends, boon companions, might I borrow your dragon?"
"No," Twilight said as she shook her head from side to side. "No, you may not borrow my dragon."
"Well, bother." Luna watched as Twilight yawned again, and an old familiar sting pierced her heart. Little ponies just couldn't help themselves. It made her ache and the old stale memories of past hurts turned fresh--but much to Luna's surprise, she wasn't dragged down by them. There was work to do, important work, and friends to make. She had students to save.
"Good night, Twilight Sparkle. Thank you."
"Don't mention it," was Twilight's warm response. "Good night, Luna."
After putting down her teacup, Luna rose to her hooves, mindful not to jostle Spike too much. Her front legs cramped a bit after holding a baby dragon for a few hours, but she would sort everything out soon enough. Looking down at Twilight, she felt a certain fondness for the sleepy mare. What an excellent rival she would make--and a wonderful friend. When the unicorn's head bobbed--almost overcome by drowsiness no doubt--Luna allowed herself to enjoy the bittersweet feelings of saying good night.
There would be other nights, for certain.
But as she was getting read to go, something possessed her to stay, at least for a little while longer. It was a prickle in her conscience, something strange and new. Whatever it was, it suggested that she might be a better pony if she did the right thing. That she might be more welcome in the future if she reciprocated and showed appreciation.
Luna knew what she needed to do.
"Take your dragon and go to bed, Twilight Sparkle. I shall clean up the mess I've made, and then I shall show myself out."
"Oh, thank you, Luna. That's so incredibly kind of you."
"It is the least I can do," Luna replied. She wanted to say so much more, but words failed her. Her eyes lingered upon Twilight for a time, noting how her head bobbed, and how difficult it was to stand up. No doubt, Twilight would have gone to bed after her bath, and Luna had kept her awake.
Instead of guilt, she felt a curious warm fuzziness.
"If you will excuse me, I really must be off to bed. Good night, Luna. Sweet dreams."
"Yes, Twilight. Sweet dreams." |
Lunatic Fringe | Almanac Avocado | The faint remnants of a headache--the distilled memory of a migraine--punished Luna for trying to think. Nightmares plagued her sleep and kept her from getting fully rested. Dreadful dreams, the worst dreams had played out like bad movies from which there was no escape. This time, the Nightmare had not just swallowed her, but Overcast as well, transforming the both of them into gross, hideous parodies of their former selves.
Vividly she recalled it overcoming her, devouring her, a slick slime that swallowed up the body like viscous tar. Once surrounded, it found its way in through whatever orifice presented itself. It oozed through her ears. Slithered up under her eyelids and swam inside her eye sockets. Oily tendrils probed their way up her nose and into her vulnerable sinuses. Pendulous bloblets squished between the gaps of her teeth, schlorped over the rough surface of her tongue, leaving behind a vile polluted residue, and rammed their way down her throat in undulating rivulets that throbbed with strange, alien heartbeats.
Even worse, the same was done to Overcast.
Now left with unsettling implications, Luna wondered if she could be trusted with her sister's students. What if she led them astray? Or worse... what if Overcast became her dark protege, a corrupted mirroring of Celestia and Twilight Sparkle? Harmony worked to restore balances, and Celestia was heavy with irrefutable goodness. Luna could not help but worry that she might be damned simply for the sake of balance, a condemned counterweight to her sister. Twilight Sparkle no doubt further tipped the scales, and if left unchecked, calamity could be the only possible outcome.
And Luna would be the one to suffer for it because that was the way of things.
Somepony had to assume the dark mantle. Luna wanted no part of it, but she felt stuck with it. Compounding her guilt, Overcast now seemed drawn into this conflict, with his role yet to be determined. Luna felt as though no good could possibly come of this, and she feared what might be--yet after her long talk with Twilight Sparkle, she wanted to have hope. Even during this moment of facing down an impossibly bleak outcome, Luna wanted to believe that she was wrong, that all of this was a misunderstanding, and that things would turn out for the best.
When an all too quiet voice in the back of her mind suggested that she was being unreasonable, her headache surged and pulsed in the worst way imaginable. Uncomfortable heat crept up the length of her ears and there was a steady but dull thumping right behind her eyes. With the voice now silenced, some of the pain subsided, but the threat was all too real; listening to that voice of reason would only cause more pain.
The remembered sensation of liquid horror creeping beneath her eyelids returned in full force, and so too did the painful struggle for air as the vile sludge poured down her throat. For a moment, the panic was too much to bear, and she feared her heart might burst in some awful way. Her legs wobbled, revealing weakness, and Luna feared that the floor might come rushing up to meet her at any second. Anxiety came in waves, each threatening to bowl her over, and all of Luna's efforts to fill her lungs with air failed. She wheezed, she swallowed, she saw starbursts exploding in her eyes, and then--
Nothing.
She saw nothing; no stars danced in her vision, they had returned to the night sky from whence they came.
As suddenly as the attack had come, it was gone.
All that lingered was the confused shame that an immortal could somehow die from an anxiety attack.
Standing in her private chambers, bewildered, ashamed, and feeling alone, Luna found that she very much wanted to be with her detainees. Being the Princess of Detention was preferable to this. Sweat dripping, her night-blue hide soaked down to the skin, somehow burning up and freezing at the same time, Luna longed to be with her new friends. They would understand. How or why they would understand didn't matter; she didn't have to rationalise it. She simply knew and the knowledge was reassuring. They weren't adults, who might chastise her for such irrational fears, but foals who had plenty of irrational fears of their own.
Mouth dry, but somehow drooling with residual terror, Luna stumbled off for a drink.
Soda pop was one of many things invented during her long absence and Luna loved the stuff. It was fizzy, effervescent, sweet, had a delightful variety of flavours, and gave one happy fun gas. With but a bottle, she could work up the sort of belch that could turn castle walls to dust--at least her imagination thought so. Always a strange one, she rather liked the nonstandard flavours that others might turn their nose up at.
Several empty bottles sat atop the stone wall near to her and she could feel the eyes of the guards upon her when she wasn't looking. She had just finished off a bottle of black licorice soda pop, and while she didn't enjoy it much if at all, she still drank it just for the experience. Flashing a disturbed grin, she popped the top off of an ice-cold bottle of mustard soda. Sniffing it was a mistake; something about the fizziness and the twangy tang of mustard almost made her face explode. Cross-eyed, her face contorting wildly, she fought the urge to sneeze until it went away.
Then, when she was confident that her face wouldn't explode in a most unprincessly manner, she tried a swallow of the urine-yellow mustard soda pop. A long pull drained almost a third of the bottle, and she swished it around the insides of her mouth so that she might fully appreciate the flavour. With a loud gulp, it went down her gullet, where it tickled her quivering innards. It was her sworn and sacred duty to experience strange new things. After all, as the Dreamwalker, she might have to craft a dream where somepony drank mustard soda pop, and she wanted the experience to be as real as possible so they could have the best possible dream experience.
She owed them that.
"Not bad," she murmured whilst peering into the bottle with one squinty eye.
When she licked her teeth, she tasted a curious mix of black licorice and sunny yellow mustard. Two tastes that did not go together, not even in the slightest. Then, ever so faintly, like dire chanting of cultists heard in the background of spooky dreams, she detected the suggestive hint of cilantro, the very first bottle of soda pop that she'd emptied out. It was rather soapy, which seemed fitting after what she'd put poor Twilight Sparkle through.
Any second now, the sugar would surely work its sweet magic, and she would be ready for detention.
The room at the top of the detention tower was occupied. Wednesday Waterkey and Top Notch greeted Luna upon her entry but she failed to return their welcome. They had decorated a bit, making the bleak room a bit more inviting. Self-help posters were hung on the walls, the sort of banal drivel that one expected to find in a school. There was even a displacer beast hanging by one tentacle encouraging the viewer to hang in there.
Top Notch in particular looked as pleased as punch.
"Help for students, by students," he said with all the dry wit he could muster.
Luna wanted to be emotional--to perhaps even have some gushing outburst--but she shoved it all down. Even with her best efforts, some of her feelings crept out. She was proud of Wednesday and Topper for their initiative--she wanted to tell them so--but the words she longed to say refused to be spoken. This had to be the good that Twilight spoke of and was surely what Celestia believed in, the virtue of the little ponies. Their capacity for greatness was most evident during moments just like this one.
It was an affirmation of everything that Luna wanted to believe, but had trouble accepting as truth. Moments like this did much for Luna's faith, not just in the little ponies, but also for herself. She was the Princess of Detention, and through the goodness of her subjects, her domain had prospered. Warm gratitude threatened to seep out of her eyes in liquid form and it took all of her willpower to keep her princessly composure.
"I've decided that I don't wish to be the Invisible Filly any longer," Wednesday said to Luna. "Quite a lot has happened actually. This morning, Topper, Overcast, and I, we, well I guess you could say that we made a pact. We pledged to never speak behind each other's backs. You should have seen Overcast. He almost showed interest."
"Where is he, anyhow?" asked Luna.
"Well, funny that you mention that..."
Luna tilted her head to look at Topper, but it seemed as though he had nothing else to say.
Wednesday, however, had plenty to say.
"Something happened in the school cafeteria today. Not sure what. I don't know what's true and what isn't, but supposedly Overcast did something. Something awful. The guard showed up kind of awful. And I don't want to spread gossip so I... well, you know. We saw each other during breakfast. Made our pledge. Overcast was actually in whatever passes as a good mood for him, I think. Can't say he was cheerful, but he did say that today was the big day and that things would change forever.
"After breakfast, we went our separate ways. I've enrolled in a recovery program to repair my lousy grades and restore my good standing, so that's where I went. Topper went to study law, because that's what he's good at. As for Overcast, he went off to his advanced matter manipulation class and he--"
"Advanced matter manipulation?" Luna's gentle interruption silenced Wednesday. "Advanced matter manipulation is for students approaching graduation." She wanted to say more, to ask more about whatever had happened and why it involved the guard, but she knew that pressing the issue would accomplish nothing. In frustration, she sighed.
"That's where he said he was going," said Top Notch in a solemn tone.
"We all had a really nice morning," Wednesday said. "Like I said, Overcast was... well, I wouldn't call it enthusiastic. Topper, this is hard, help me."
The colt shrugged and was of no use at all.
"I asked Topper to the dance. We had a very civil discussion. A very honest one. I asked him knowing full well that I can't actually dance in my condition, and um, knowing that I'm not much to look at, but when I said that Overcast lectured me and in some weird way that made me feel better, though I can't say why. But Topper said yes and I was ecstatic and the day started off so right."
"She wanted a chance to prove herself. Just like I did. Didn't feel right to refuse her. I think doing that might have made me a hypocrite and I don't much care for that. As it turns out, Whinny is great at conversation, her horn playing is top notch, and she's really very nice. And I don't feel awkward talking to her like I do with other fillies, which is great."
"And we wanted others to be happy and we wanted you to be happy so we decided to make some improvements to the detention tower after everything you said, Princess Luna. You did give us that rousing speech about having the courage to do what is necessary."
"Say, Whinny, do you think that little pep-talk might've set off Overcast?"
"That's... that's a good question, Topper. I wish I knew what he did. I don't like not knowing. And I don't want to ask around because that feels like gossip."
Luna wanted to know as well, and while she could probably find out, the detention hour was soon to begin. If the guard were involved... try as she might, Luna could not even imagine the guard getting involved with a school issue. These were students, not hardened criminals. Of course, Overcast was given to rapscallionry--but surely not to the degree that summoning the guard was necessary. The colt was given to drama, not dangerous malice.
More than anything else though, she wanted to know how and why he was enrolled in advanced matter manipulation. The school had not relaxed its standards--only the very best students were offered the chance to study here--but was Overcast truly that exceptional? Such magic required a certain level of physical maturity; the very young had difficulty even channeling the force required for such arcane endeavours.
The only thing that could be done right now was to keep calm and carry on.
"I printed fliers," Top Notch said, and he seemed proud of himself.
"You did what?" asked Luna.
"My mom, she's a good sort. She told me that when I stumble onto a worthy social cause, I should throw money at it, because that's what fixes things and makes things better. And I'm one to listen to my mom, because she's a good sort. A real good sort. I can't ever recall her ever being wrong about anything. So I followed her advice and I paid to have some fliers printed up and then I went and posted them around the school."
"Topper and I didn't have lunch in the cafeteria. We got there early, grabbed a box lunch, and took off so we could talk. And walk. And post fliers. And we had a lovely time together."
"Maybe if we'd stayed, Overcast might've behaved himself," said Top Notch, mostly to himself. "This morning, he talked about being a hero. Maybe there was a misunderstanding?"
"You printed fliers." Luna made her way to the desk, pushed the chair back, and sat down.
"We wanted our fellow students to know that if they needed help, there was some to be had," Wednesday explained. "And a flier is a good way to do that. Is it not?"
This was all so unexpected, but Luna was pleased. Now, she was committed to these changes. There was so much that she wanted to do, but her own worries and hesitations made it difficult. But now, with Wednesday and Topper taking it upon themselves to make things happen and showing a bit of initiative, the hardest part was already done. The part that Luna wasn't sure if she could accomplish on her own. How many scenarios might she have played out in her head, plotting all possible points of failure? Oh, all the ways she might have procrastinated with her princessly ponderings.
Every curl upon Wednesday's head was more precious than all the wealth in the treasury. All of Luna's fears and doubts about being the hated Princess of Detention crumbled, flying apart when blasted by incontrovertible proof of goodness. The affectionate adoration of youth would grow into something greater--though what, Luna did not know. She feared to get her hopes up, yet her caged hopes threatened to burst free from all their imagined confines. Not only was this where she needed to be, this is where she belonged. At least, for now. Perhaps with time and progression, she might move on to bigger and better things. But she doubted that those things would be quite as important.
Luna, a pony haunted by her past, now worked to build the future.
Tugged upon and pulled in every which direction, Luna struggled. She needed to stay here, but she very much wanted to know what was going on with Overcast. While these were pressing immediate concerns, she also very much wanted to talk to her sister. There was so much that needed saying, so much to discuss. Possibly too much. It might be overwhelming. But Luna was determined to stay the course, and she would talk with her sister. It just had to happen. Though it would not happen right now. Was it procrastinating when you were actually preoccupied? She couldn't go prancing off to gush to her sister, not when somepony in need of help might show up. That would be poor impulse control.
It did not matter that this joy was short-lived. Yes, this was joy, ever-elusive and feared. No, it wasn't joy that was feared, she realised, but its departure. She saw this clearly, at least at the moment. Strangely, she was not afraid; even if it left her--it most certainly would--she knew without doubt that it would return. Something had changed. A part of herself that she did not know had changed or perhaps recovered in some unknowable, unfathomable way. Yes, this joy would leave her, like birds in autumn. But spring would come; joy would return, and with reassurance came relief.
While Luna did not feel whole again, she felt better.
The cost of power was grief. In a moment of terrible clarity, Luna understood this. To be the creature she was--an alicorn--was to invite grief. She was a lightning rod for calamity. How her sister dealt with this dreadful state of being was unknown to Luna, but as she sat there, staring at Wednesday Waterkey and Top Notch, she had an inkling, an intimation of how Celestia endured. Bringing these two together, helping them, providing for their needs--this had brought her joy, and what precious joy it was.
Like a lightning rod, Luna had to stand above others. In doing so, the little ponies would be spared the worst of whatever calamity struck if she took disaster upon her own body. This was power and the cost of it was grief. A simple arrangement. So many times she'd heard spoken from so many mouths the old chestnut about absolute power corrupting absolutely. Luna herself had been corrupted; but before her fall into shadow, she had been grief-stricken.
Her corruption was the progression of a disease.
As a survivor of this disease, it was her duty to help others. Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns was a place where power concentrated. Some coped; they had friendship and togetherness. However, some lacked this support. They had power, which came at a cost, and eventually, they would know grief, which Luna determined was the terminal phase. Somehow, she would save them--if she could, if they would allow her. A pony drowning in despair sometimes resisted all efforts to save them.
Luna certainly had.
Overcast was a pony consumed by power--and grief. He had to be mourning his parents; no doubt could be had that he believed himself lost to them. Beyond that, his belief that the world was good had been damaged in a way that few could comprehend--but Luna knew. She could feel his grief quite keenly, because it so closely matched her own. Overcast mourned the world lost to him, and all of the good things found therein. His despondency, his bereavement, his desolation, all symptoms of stolen joy. At his tender age, he could barely comprehend what was lost, taken from him, but he could mourn it.
Foals didn't understand mourning--and sometimes, neither did alicorns.
It was a strange ache, a wound, a tearing open of the self. Sometimes, this would not heal on its own and if left to fester, awful things could come about. Monsters could seep from such a gash. In a moment of brutal self-honesty, Luna asked herself if her attempts to plunge the world into eternal night was an attempt to make others mourn for the sun forever lost to them. An expression of grief? In her own moment of self-pity and loss, had she robbed others of their joy so they could all be miserable together?
"Princess Luna, are you well?"
Wednesday's question jolted Luna from her thoughts, and she stared at the curly filly without answering right away. Young Wednesday had gone from being helpless to helping others. Such a rapid change. A turnabout. Moments such as this one could not be expressed with mere words. The gathering silence--like clouds over a picnic--threatened to become a storm of awkwardness.
"I'm fine, Wednesday. Thank you for asking. In fact, I'm better than I've been for a while. Because of you, actually."
Blushing furiously, Wednesday squirmed, her braces creaked and squeaked, and she became adorably bashful in the way that only fillies on the cusp of adolescence could. Luna drank the moment in and found her parched soul slaked in some inconceivable way that was immensely satisfying. Wednesday reacted to such sincere praise in much the same way plants did sunshine, which is to say that she probably grew in some important way.
"Do you hear that?" Top Notch asked. "There's somepony on the stairs. Be ready."
The filly in the doorway was somewhat younger. She hesitated, fearful and worried, and she did not take her eyes off of Luna. Thankfully, Luna's mood was ironclad at the moment, and it felt as though nothing could bring her down from the clouds where she currently resided. The new filly was chubby in a way that suggested that she would soon fill out, but that was a promise for later and she would remain awkward for a while.
Her coat was a vivid, perhaps even lurid shade of noxious creamy green. Her mane was a bit too pink and was something of a shock upon the eyes. Luna knew just enough of the new-fangled colour theory to know that pink and green did not go together; they did not compliment each other. Oversized glasses covered her face, which were broken and held together in the middle by a sticky, dirty mess of tape. Her bookbag was old, practically falling apart, and had no-doubt been somepony else's bookbag. The poor dear did not move with poise and grace, but with anxious nervousness.
"Hi," Wednesday said to the new filly. "Are you alright? My name is Wednesday, and this is Top Notch. Call him Topper."
Never taking her eyes off of Luna, the new filly replied, "I'm sorry, I seem to be having some trouble adjusting. I'm telling my hooves to move, but they're being a bit disobedient."
"Princess Luna is incredibly friendly," Top Notch said with all of the particular warmth and good cheer unique to him. "You shouldn't worry."
"I'm trying not to worry, but my stupid brain and body are betraying me!"
"Oh... oh, right. I know how that can be." Top Notch nodded knowingly, cast a sidelong glance at Wednesday, and then, quite without warning, flashed a smile.
But it was no mere common smile, no. This was an old money smile, a revered treasure from the past, lovingly handed down from generation to generation. It was as warm and reassuring as a grand and stately fireplace, the sort of centerpiece to a room that held generations of fond memories upon the mantle in the form of photographs and paintings. This smile was a holiday banquet and a house packed wall to wall with beloved family members. Even Luna found herself charmed by it, and she could not help but worry about if he might ever use it for nefarious purposes. Why, the little fellow might very well use it on Wednesday and then take to the dangerous hobby of necking until knackered.
"I'm really sorry," the new filly said. "I can't even imagine how rude I'm being, but seeing you in-pony is a bit of a shock. It's not you, if it makes you feel better, Princess Luna. When I came nose-to-nose with your sister, Princess Celestia, I widdled myself."
Before Luna could stop it, before she could even sense its escape, a hot, breathy snort blasted free from the fortress that was her face. The concussive explosion caused the room to tremble and before Luna could recover herself, she began to snortle in a most unprincessly way. Even worse, the prison break continued; after the massive blast that opened up an exit and the escaping snortles fleeing the asylum that was her headspace, the giggles too escaped their solitary confinement. She covered her mouth with her hoof to stop them, but to no avail; all the inmates were escaping.
"My name is Almanac," the new filly said, introducing herself. "Almanac Avocado. I saw the fliers. I wasn't going to come, but I did anyway. This is awkward."
"Oh, indeed it is," Top Notch agreed, and he put his heirloom smile away.
"I'm not in trouble," Almanac said. "But, I guess I am kind of in trouble? I mean, I wasn't given detention, but I am in trouble. I guess. It's complicated?"
Still, Luna giggled and it showed no signs of abating; the inmates continued their gleeful escape.
"I just want to say that I'm not scared of you because of... well, you know. Stuff." Somehow, Almanac broke the spell that rooted her to the spot and she moved into the room, but still never took her eyes off of Luna. "It's just... you know... alicorns. They're big. I don't know which beanstalk y'all fell off of, and I don't want to find out."
A most majestic, most deafening "HRONK!" shot out of Luna like a cannonball. 'Twas a strange sound, like somepony swallowing a trumpet playing goose--which might be considered a miracle of some kind considering that geese had no lips--but in reverse. She sat there for a moment, stunned into silence by the peculiar sound she'd made, until at last she was overcome by the giggles once more. For a few precious seconds, Luna felt as she once did, before the darkness, before the onset of trials, troubles, and tribulations.
A period of slumber lost to nightmares somehow made the current myrth all the more satisfying. Almanac was recovering herself a little at a time and now stood in front of the desk with her glasses askew. As for the others, Top Notch had a dry, droll expression, and Wednesday had a lopsided smirk that highlighted just enough of her facial features to show the mare that she would one day be.
"Hey," Almanac said in a preadolescent squeak, "something my dad suggested actually worked. It's too bad that I can never tell him."
"Is your father... passed on?" Top Notch asked the question with all of the politeness he could muster, which was really quite a lot.
"No," Almanac replied, "but any time he's right about something, we never hear the end of it."
"Oh." Collecting his composure, his ears pricked, Top Notch nodded. "I see."
"Of course, he's wrong about plenty of stuff..." Words trailing off into a sigh, Almanac shrugged.
Now a bit unsettled, Top Notch made a polite inquiry: "Your father... is wrong about things?"
"All the time," the young newcomer replied with a nod. "He told me that if I just show everypony the real me and if I do my best, I'll make friends in no time. I'll fit in. He said if I was honest and forthright, then I'd be a shoo-in for the most popular filly in school. There's a list, and it grows longer by the day."
Swallowing her laughter, Luna leaned forward.
"I'm starting to think I don't belong here, and I've been thinking about dropping out. Going back to my old school. Every day, it just gets... harder. But I can't quit, because there's so much pressure. So I just feel stuck."
"It's easy to get stuck," Wednesday said, and her words caused Top Notch to nod in agreement.
Watching him nod made Luna wonder what the young colt felt stuck about.
"It's too hard to keep going and quitting is complicated." The younger filly blew her radiant pink mane out of her eyes and then tossed her head back when her mane refused to cooperate. This almost dislodged her glasses, and Almanac's horn sparked as her magic flared in preparation for having to catch her spectacles. "My parents gave up everything to move to Canterlot to be with me and all of my grandparents, my aunts, my uncles, and everypony in the family supports us because Canterlot is just too expensive and my parents can't afford to live here and--" She paused, turned her head, pricked her ears, and listened.
There were hooves on the stairs along with metallic clanking. Luna heard it quite clearly, a sound distinct to a pony clad in armor. There was a guard on the stairs. Why would a guard be coming up the stairs? There was probably a message to deliver. It was probably nothing, yet all of the hair along Luna's spine stood up while her gut muscles tightened. Whatever dread that tread upon the stairs moved closer and Luna turned all of her attention upon the doorway.
When a unicorn guard led Overcast into the room, Luna was surprised--yet also not at all. The colt had a black sack over his head, which infuriated her beyond all reason, and made her want to shout. He was also hobbled, with his left hind leg connected to his right front leg with a short length of chain. Luna affixed her chilly deadpan stare upon the guard and then restrained herself to prevent any overreaction.
"Princess Luna," the guard began, "I have brought you--"
"Is the sack necessary?" asked Luna.
"Standard procedure during arrests," the guard replied, only hesitating for an eyeblink.
"So he was arrested?"
The guard swallowed and his jaw wagged as he struggled to respond. "No. But he was detained. We've never had an incident like this in the school and therefore we had no clear procedure to follow."
"Which was?" demanded Luna, whose tone was now subzero.
"He was stunned, taken down, incompacitated, and restrained."
"And this was necessary, why? Did he pose a threat to you? Did he fight back?"
"Multiple magical misdemeanours were committed, and he incided bedlam. He also--"
"Was he a danger to you?" asked Luna. "Yes or no."
"I wasn't there. I am but the messenger."
"I see." Luna's tone was now chilly enough to liquify helium and she did not stare at the guard, but through him. "I find that it is far more likely this response was to humiliate him before his peers and to further damage his ability to fit in. Perhaps to make him quit school rather than face an expulsionary hearing. For all future incidents, I want you to remember that you are dealing with students, and that if they are not dangerous, then they are not to be harmed."
"Yes, Your Majesty," the guard replied.
"Really, is the sack necessary?" asked Luna, who struggled against her ever-growing irritation.
"It deprives the detained from sight and hearing. It is said to calm the detained and make them more manageable. Also, a unicorn that cannot see or hear is far less dangerous. Sensory deprivation allows us to--"
"Overcast... can you hear me?"
"Of course I can."
The confused expression on the guard's face stood out in sharp contrast to the smug superiourity seen on Luna's. Though still dangerously angry--unreasonably angry--the faint tickle of amusement was enough for Luna to keep herself from flying into a rage due to her current state of imbalanced humours. Though she would never admit it, she felt a certain sense of pride in Overcast's accomplishment. But she also felt worried about whatever events had transpired.
"How?" the guard asked. "The sack is magically silenced. It should be impossible to speak. Words can carry magical influence. How?"
"Take it off of him," Wednesday said to the guard. "I can't bear seeing him like this. Overcast, what happened? What did you do? Why did you do it?"
"Remove it," Luna commanded.
"He did resist his detainment--"
"I said to remove it." Spilling out of her chair, Luna was on her hooves in an eyeblink, and moved with spooky, supernatural grace.
Now silent, the unicorn guard pulled the sack from Overcast's head--and Luna's heart lept up into her throat. One ear was swollen, and so was the entire left side of the colt's face. His eye was almost shut and as Luna stood there trying to hold it all in, she could almost imagine one of the guards standing on his head or neck to keep him subdued. A curious metallic taste befouled the back of her tongue and it was rather difficult to breathe at the moment.
"You are dismissed," she said to the guard.
Saying nothing, the guard didn't leave so much as he escaped, and he departed with considerable alacrity.
Her heart pounded against her ribs like a frantic caged bird and saying nothing, she removed the hobble from Overcast. In silence, he stretched his legs while Luna stood over him, and she examined his injured face with an almost maternal concern. As for the other students, they were clustered together, each of them trying to console one another during this difficult moment. She vanished the hobble and then with a sour expression of contempt, she vanished the hated head-sack as well.
"Overcast"--now warmed somewhat, Luna's voice wavered, the unsettling evidence of her current state of emotional distress--"what did you do?"
But Overcast it seemed, had other plans. Upon seeing Almanac Avocado, he brushed past Luna, limping slightly, and he moved to where she stood. He was taller than the filly by a full head--maybe more--and she seemed to be in outright awe of him as he drew close. Unsure of what to expect, Luna waited, and as she did so, she took deep calming breaths so that she might have better control of herself.
"I know you," Overcast said. "You're one of my Blameless Ones. I wish we'd met under better circumstances, but here we are. Not that I wanted us to meet. I try to avoid others, but things have been strange lately."
"Blameless?" The word slipped out of Almanac as a squeak.
"You are one of the precious few that has never gossipped," the colt said as he stood there studying the younger, smaller filly.
"Mama raised me to respect others and to never say anything that I wouldn't say to their face."
"I see." Overcast leaned in very much like Luna did, and he examined the filly's face.
"Wait"--she squeaked again--"how do you know?"
"Almanac Avocado. Both of your parents are earth ponies. You were raised around earth ponies. Not unicorns. Which is the source of your trouble, but you don't seem to understand that part just yet. Your whole family farms. They are land rich, but cash poor. Food is plentiful but that's it. They do their best to help your parents, who moved to Canterlot to be with you and support you."
"How do you know this?" asked Almanac.
"You know nothing of unicorn culture, or any of the things that unicorns are expected to know. That's why you don't fit in. Your peers believe you to be an ignorant bumpkin... but they also believe you to be an insufferable know-it-all because of your book smarts. Without you realising it, you've walked into a no-win situation. Your teachers praise you for your smarts, but they also ridicule you and shame you behind your back for being clueless about even the most basics of unicorn-related culture."
"They do that?" she asked.
"Oh yes," Overcast replied, "and that was the purpose of today. To expose all of the duplicity." He cleared his throat, lifted his head, and then wobbled slightly on his hooves. "May I please see your glasses?"
Unsure of what was about to happen, Luna waited.
"Why do you need my glasses?"
"A simple yes or a no will do. May I?"
Flustered, blushing a bit, and no-doubt filled with far too many questions, Almanac took off her glasses and passed them to Overcast. The colt took them, held them up in front of his good eye, the one not swollen shut, and he examined them with his critical gaze. Then, saying nothing, he peeled the dirty, gunky tape off the middle, and then allowed the spectacles to come apart. Holding both pieces, the colt continued his curious examination, and Luna was completely baffled by this unexpected turn of events.
"There's a point to this, I assure you," Overcast said. "I'll get to it, I promise. I will. But right now, I must concentrate."
A pulsing glow consumed the glasses and it took Luna a few seconds to understand that Overcast was cleaning them. He was removing all the glue and gunk from the area where the bridge broke. All the previous attempts to repair them left behind residue that made it impossible for the two pieces to ever fit together properly. How he managed to do this while in so much pain scared her in some worrisome way. Was he channeling his pain and suffering into his magic? That seemed likely. Luna knew all too well the outcome of such channeling and if the colt was in fact doing this, he was further gone than she had believed.
Tapping into pain and suffering to give oneself power was to open the door to darkness.
Luna could not turn away. She had to see how this ended; she had to know what point the colt had to make. He was too logical--even if his logic was skewed--to go through all this trouble without a reason. Yet, a part of Luna doubted; the colt cared. He had to care. There was evidence that he cared, and deeply. His attention to details, the way he committed so many details to memory, the fact that he kept track of his fellow students. But then the alarm bells rang, and it occurred to Luna that the colt kept a list; he kept tabs on his fellow students, the ones he considered guilty and those he called his 'Blameless Ones'. This scared her--mostly because she did the same thing. She too had a list of ponies to look out for.
Unsettled and somewhat unhinged, Luna watched--for what else could she do?
"I want to quit school," Almanac whispered, "but I can't. I don't know how. My parents have sacrificed so much to get me here. They've given up their own lives for the sake of mine. My parents sacrificed everything that made them happy so I could be here. If I quit, I'll hurt them in ways I can't even begin to understand. But I can't keep going like this. The pressure is getting to me. There are days when I just want to do nothing but cry but I can't because everypony will just tease me."
Overcast nodded, but offered no verbal response; he was lost in concentration.
"We're poor. We can't afford anything. All my books are used and tattered and I get teased for having them. When I complained, I was told to develop some character and grow a backbone. It was my fault for being thin-skinned. Sometimes, it feels like I am suffocating. I'm sick of looking into the margins of my books and seeing the doodles and scribbles and graffiti. This is all so weird. I don't know why I am telling you this, but it seems that you already know. I should be worried about how you know, but I'm not, and maybe that should bother me."
Wednesday's leg braces creaked as she moved closer to Almanac.
"You don't know this yet," Overcast said to Almanac, "but I'm the hero. Maybe not the hero that everypony wanted, but I am the hero that they deserve."
With that said, the two halves of the broken spectacles vanished from existence and then immediately reappeared--as one. Made whole. Unbroken. Luna knew it for what it was; this was no repair spell, but it was similar enough to have the same effect. Overcast had teleported the two halves together, and fused them. The clean surface, free of contaminants, rebonded without weakness. It was impressive magery by any standard, as was befitting any student that attended this school, a place where greatness was made to flourish.
It shouldn't be so surprising, given his studies with the frogs--yet Luna was impressed.
"Do you know what this is?" asked Overcast as he slipped the repaired spectacles onto Almanac's face and adjusted them.
She shook her head.
"This," he began, his voice low, "is a gift. This is evidence. How fitting that this gift is a pair of glasses, because this will allow you to see the world for what it really is. Now, you must be asking... what is this evidence of?"
She nodded.
"Well, I'll tell you." Taking a step back, he drew in a deep breath, steadied himself, and his whole body trembled as he held his head high. "I'm sorry to be the one who tells you this. Really, I am. I wish there was some way I could let you know just how sorry I am..." His good, unswollen eye closed for a moment whilst he shuddered.
"Your teachers care nothing about you. All of their seeming and so-called friendship is fake. Fraudulent. At any time, any one of them could have fixed your glasses with a repair spell. Watch them. Watch them carefully. All throughout the day, they fix broken pencils, busted pieces of chalk, torn pages, anything and everything that suffers a mishap. But your glasses? Not worth their time. You're not worth their time. They could have fixed them. Doing so might've meant a bit less teasing. But they failed to perform this simple act. They've failed you. Learn from this and--"
"Overcast, that's more than enough," Luna said, cutting the colt off mid-sentence.
"Yes, I suppose I've inflicted more than enough truth for one day."
"I suppose... well, I suppose that seems obvious in hindsight."
Almanac's words pierced Luna's ears--and her heart. While the glasses were fixed, irreparable damage had just been done. Something needed to be said--something had to be said to stop the poison. But Luna had no idea what it was or what it might be. There was no antidote. Celestia might know what to do, what to say. Luna saw the world in a different way and so she had no idea how to respond.
"I've only ever done this with pencils," the weary, injured colt said. "Wasn't sure if this would work. That would have been embarrassing, had I failed. Would've ruined the moment, for certain. Whew." Then, wobbling quite a bit, he stumbled off, sat down on a wooden bench, and almost collapsed on the spot. Somehow, he kept himself in a sitting position, and when he tried to smile, he winced with pain.
"I don't believe you," Wednesday said to Overcast. "I don't believe you, but I don't know how to prove you wrong. Our teachers have to care about us. They do. Otherwise, they wouldn't teach. You're wrong."
"Am I?" asked Overcast.
"I refuse to be convinced of this," Wednesday said as she shook her head from side to side and caused her curls to bob. "What's gotten into you? What did you do? What have you done?"
Almanac pulled her eyeglasses off and squinting, she checked out the now repaired bridge. Her pink mane spilled down over her face and for a second, she was youthful and innocent. But when she brushed her mane back with her foreleg--a physical act reminiscent of earth ponies--her face was aglow with worshipful adoration. Luna feared this reaction, this outcome, though she could not say why. If Overcast had made her a true believer, then it was conceivable that he truly was a danger to his fellow students.
Something would have to be done.
"A lot of our teachers have cutie marks for teaching," Top Notch said as he moved to stand beside Wednesday. "Surely that would make them care about what they're doing."
"Being compelled to do something is not the same as wanting to do it," Overcast replied.
"Ooh, you're horrible! Now you're casting doubt on that, too! Stop that, Overcast! You're like a horrible cloud over everything! Just... stop that!"
"Or I'll eat a hoof sandwich?" he asked.
As if struck by some terrific invisible force, Wednesday recoiled. She blinked once, twice, and it took her several seconds to recover. When she finally did, she said, "I was wrong to say that to you. I was. Bad friendship made you the way you are and I was so focused on myself that I've not been a good friend to you. That much is obvious. I aim to fix that. The only way to prove you wrong is to be your friend and try to do better."
"Well, if she can do it, so can I." Top Notch nodded, pleased with himself, and he sighed with obvious contentment. "Group effort. Righto. Surely my parents would approve."
"Overcast"--Luna's voice drew every eye to her--"what did you do?"
"Today, I stopped being afraid," he replied. Reaching up, he gingerly touched the side of his face with his hoof. Doing so made him whimper, but then he did it again--and again. "I finally had the courage to do what needed to be done. Today, I became the hero."
"But that doesn't tell me what you did, Overcast. And I need to know." Luna went to where the colt sat, pulled up a bench, and then sat down beside him. The bench was too small, and Luna, too large. It was best described as awkward, but she persisted. There was just too much at stake to let trivial things be distractions.
Like an overly large bluebird of unhappiness, Luna perched upon her bench. Reaching out one wing, she pulled the colt close to her so that she might comfort him. Or maybe she was trying to comfort herself. She didn't know and she didn't care. He tried to resist her, but she just overpowered him. He was in incredible pain; she could sense it. Both physical and mental. She had just watched him hurt himself, pressing against his face--and it was far too much like looking into a mirror.
"What did you do?" she asked.
"What nopony else would," he replied. "Not even you, Dreamwalker."
Summoning her patience, Luna sighed.
Did she deserve this?
Most definitely.
It made her sympathise with her sister in a way that nothing else had.
If she was even half this infuriating, she owed her big sister an apology.
She felt him shudder and heard him sigh. His thin body leaned against hers and feeling him pressed to her side made her consider life. What was it exactly that she wanted from life? She didn't know. There was no answer. Which was, perhaps, a dangerous thing because immortals were blessed with prodigiously long lives. The sole reason for her existence, her purpose, her function, she was meant to be a counterweight to her sister. Together, they shepherded the celestial bodies and kept the clockwork of the universe ticking.
While this was something that Luna did, it was rather just something that happened because she existed. The same was true of her duties as the Dreamwalker. It happened. She was doing it right now as she sat on the bench trying to bring some small sense of comfort to Overcast. All of her purposes were passive, just things that happened that she only had the vaguest awareness of, unless she concentrated.
Celestia had found something that occupied her time. There was the school, first and foremost of Celestia's hobbies. And one of her sister's precious students had been stomped on by a guard. Which caused Luna to discover that the things her sister held dear, she did as well. It was a strange but welcome realisation, because it meant the future wasn't so boring and bleak. Having such a long life, it would be so easy to be overcome by despair, to become stultified by the sheer endless tedious repetitiveness of it all.
For reasons unknown, Luna thought of Twilight Sparkle and felt better.
"Overcast"--she said his name as little more than a whisper--"what made you think that today's events were necessary? What drove you to do whatever it is that you've done?"
"You already know why." He spat out these words like a foal refusing to swallow bitter medicine. "I've tried to tell others. Today, I forced them to see that the problem exists. I made it so it could not be ignored."
Almanac pulled up a bench close to Overcast's, and then sat down. As for Top Notch and Wednesday Waterkey, they stood alongside one another, in much the way dear friends or couples do. They cast worried sidelong glances at one another and rather looked like adults trapped in bodies too small. When Luna last existed in the world, they would have been adults perhaps, or on the verge of becoming so.
"I didn't want it to come to this," Overcast said, almost muttering. "But I knew it would. I knew it would. A part of me knew but another part of me kept trying to tell the rest of myself that things could change. But that voice grew quieter as days went on and all my worst suspicions were confirmed."
After a shuddering breath, he added, "When I woke up this morning, that voice had gone silent. Was it like that for you, Dreamwalker? Did that quiet voice of reason just go silent?"
Unable to respond, her words caught in her throat like a too-dry biscuit, Luna wrapped her wing a little tighter around the distraught colt. This was dangerous territory and she risked having her soul laid bare. She had trod this ground before. This path was known to her. She knew how it started--but more importantly, she knew how it ended. Overcast did not deserve such an end.
But knowing the length of this journey meant that it was familiar, and as such, there was no fear of the unknown. There was no strangeness here that she could not abide. If he continued down this path, she would go after him. Where he would go in ignorance, she would follow with foresight. Whatever monsters awaited on this path would soon learn that she was the Mother of Monsters, and this path was hers.
"Wednesday... she talked about how it took courage to be seen. She said that she had spent so long believing herself to be the Invisible Filly that it was scary to be seen again. And then she said something that got stuck in my ears." The colt went quiet, thoughtful, and his head wobbled on his neck. "She said that being seen meant holding herself accountable. After she said that, I knew that I had to do the same. I wasn't living up to my full potential. I saw it as clear as day. And that's when I decided to be the hero, because that's a thing that one decides. You either become the pony you're meant to be, or you don't."
Wednesday whined out one word--"Overcast..."--but had nothing else to say.
"I woke up feeling that way, but what she said and how she said it really got stuck in my ears. Today was the day. So I acted."
With every nerve in her body jolting and jittering, Luna waited.
"I thought about everything I'd learned recently. About focus and discipline. Dreamwalker, you taught me more than you know. More than you realise. You opened my eyes. Well, my ears, but the result remains the same. I had clarity." He moaned, swayed a little, and there was a feverish gleam in his unswollen eye. "And I suppose I had friends. Topper and Wednesday used to be part of the problem, but they had seen the error of their ways. I guess I did it just as much for them as I did myself.
"At lunch time, I waited in the cafeteria, and I prepared. I turned my listening spell back into a ventriloquism spell. It wasn't hard. I'm not saying that to be boastful, really. It was just restoring the spell back to what it was meant to be. I listened, waited for some juicy gossip, and when I found some, instead of just hearing it in my own ears, I channeled directly into the ears of everypony around me. Hundreds of ears, all hearing what I heard.
"And what they heard was the captain of the student weather team telling the leader of the chess club that she was going to steal away her best friend's colt friend, because her best friend didn't deserve him, and she really wasn't her best friend. They were only friends because their parents were friends, and then she went on to list all of the reasons she found her so-called best friend annoying and awful, but she kept her so-called friend around because her parents gave her money to go out and do fun stuff."
Closing her eyes, Luna turned her head away.
"Of course, her so-called best friend was right there in the cafeteria, and she heard every word said. I went looking for more chatter, and found some too. Everypony got to hear what I hear every day. Every awful thing. Everything was just starting to go full swing when the guards showed up and demanded that I stop. But I didn't stop. I couldn't. I don't know what came over me. I started broadcasting everything all at once. What a sound it made. All that negativity. Some of the guards were overwhelmed. I didn't mean to hurt them. That was never my intention. It just... happened. My magic got away from me.
"And then I heard it... it was lost in the noise, but all the time I spent in practice allowed me to focus on it. And then everypony heard it. Mister Burr, the head of the athletics department... he was boasting about how he'd kissed a student and stolen her love away. It was so loud... too loud. I don't know what happened. But everypony heard it. The guard did too. One of them blasted me and I don't know what happened next but I was on the ground and one of the guards was stomping on my face to make the magic stop, because Mister Burr was going into detail about what he'd done. He was saying how her sweet love was like nectar and how eager he was to drink from her again.
"After a few stomps, my spell broke. It just fizzled out. I remember the guard saying that it was just an illusion, something upsetting meant to cause a disturbance. But it wasn't an illusion. It was real. And everypony heard it."
A dreadful weight settled upon Luna's neck but she refused to bow her head. This was somehow worse than anything she might have imagined. She needed time to think before she drew any conclusions or came to any sort of judgment. More than that, Luna really wanted to talk to her sister about all of this. If Overcast had exposed an inappropriate relationship between a staff member and a student, something would have to be done--even if Overcast was in the wrong with his actions.
Without consequences, without intervention, Overcast would continue to hurt the little ponies around him, and Luna could not allow that. Yet, Overcast was also a little pony, and he too was hurting. Punishment would surely drive him further into darkness, into territory terrible and familiar to Luna. What she feared most of all however, the thing that really made her brain itch, was that Overcast was hurting himself. All the signs and symptoms were there; he was using pain as fuel for power. His anguish created a feedback loop that gave him what he craved--power--but left him wanting more.
"I can't say I understand what you've done," Almanac said to Overcast as she leaned in close beside him. "And I barely even know you. But it sounds like you need a friend or three."
"I had friends," Overcast said in return. "They spoke behind my back. They betrayed me. I had parents... and they became strangers to me. I had teachers that I admired... but then I saw them for what they were. As for Wednesday and Topper"--the colt gestured at his two nearby companions--"only time will tell if they are sincere. I am not hopeful."
"I resent that," Wednesday said and she snorted at Overcast in contempt. "You were absolutely right, you know. I was only sorry because I got caught. I played stupid games and I won stupid prizes. But now that I've seen the harm of what my careless actions have done, I want to do better and be a better pony. I don't want to hurt others. Ever. I want ponies to feel good. I want them to be happy. That's the point of my music... my very existence. You helped me to see that about myself."
"I'm guilty of it too," Top Notch said. "I've made bad jokes about the poor students in school. Said terrible things about how they'll let anypony into the school these days. It made my chums laugh. I've said all kinds of bad things about ponies just like her." Lifting his right front hoof, he gestured at Almanac and then looked elsewhere. "They're not my chums anymore. Of course, they don't know it yet, but I suppose they will soon enough. And then I'll be the one being teased and having dreadful things said about me behind my back."
Nudging Top Notch with her whole body, Wednesday said, "Apologise."
"Say again?" asked Top Notch.
"Apologise. Mean it. You'll feel better, Topper."
"Really? Well, alright then." Looking everywhere but at Almanac, Top Notch took a much-needed moment to pull himself together. Then, looking the filly he'd wronged right in the eye, he said in a strained voice, "I'm sorry. I apologise. Truly and sincerely. I didn't know I was hurting somepony. I honestly thought it was just harmless fun... but I was wrong. And I can change."
"Thank you," Almanac said to him. "That means a lot. Means quite a lot, actually. A part of me actually wants to stay in school to see how this turns out."
"I'm not sure there's a point to this," Overcast said to no one in particular. "Or if there is much of a point to anything. While this is nice and feels good now... it can't last. It won't last. Friendship can't survive us. It cannot survive life."
"Overcast"--Wednesday's patience was clearly strained--"why would you say that? Why are you such a downer?"
"If you really want to know, you should go talk with Moon Dancer." Taking a deep breath, Overcast attempted to shake his head, but the pain made him whimper. It took him several long seconds to recover, and when he did, he continued, "She used to be my foalsitter when I was younger. We still talk, she and I. Sometimes. Not so much anymore. But she can tell you all about how her friend ditched her."
"So to prove you wrong, I have to be your lifelong friend and boon companion. Got it."
"Wednesday..." Overcast breathed out her name. "When we last spoke, Moon Dancer helped me with my assignment. She was in advanced matter manipulation with me. One of her best friends just up and left without saying goodbye. Went to Ponyville, I think. It crushed her. For me, it was just more evidence that friendship is fraudulent. Fake. Fake, fake, fake. You'll move away. School will end. You'll make friends that can't stand me and you'll choose them over me. While I'm sure you mean well, and I do actually appreciate you making the effort, it's all for naught. Life will tear us apart. The illusion of friendship can't survive contact with reality."
"Overcast, Topper and I... we had a talk about you." Before Overcast could interrupt, Wednesday continued, "Nothing bad was said. Earlier today, we discussed inviting you to the dance with us, because we didn't want you to be alone."
"So I get to be a third wheel. Awkward."
"Oh, goodness no," Top Notch said with irrepressible cheerfulness. "Whinny said that it might be for the best if we let you just sit in a corner and sulk, or whatever it is that you do. She... we... the two of us, we just didn't want you to be alone. Of course, now it seems as though you might be expelled from school, or worse."
"That's... incredibly nice. You thought about me."
"We didn't want you to be alone. Yes, we discussed you moping in a corner, but we didn't mean it in a bad way, honest. I was actually pretty worried talking about it with Topper. I just thought that somepony should invite you to the dance. Even if you don't dance. Or participate. Or do anything social. I thought you could just hang out in the corner." Wednesday heaved a sigh of relief, rolled her eyes, and a huge mass of curls spilled down to obscure the upper half of her face. "We wanted you to know that somepony thought of you. And maybe we could hang out. Just a bit. Drink punch together. Just be us. Because we have something that seems to be real hard to find these days and that is--"
"If you say friendship, I'll never forgive you," Overcast said to her.
"--understanding. I think we understand each other better than most."
"It's true." Nodding at Luna, Top Notch added, "It's because of her, you know. She made this possible. Princess Luna is our common ground, something that we share together. Without her, we might not have met in a meaningful way. She gave us a chance to be ourselves and to talk and just let everything out and she kept us safe so it could happen. And now, because of her"--he nodded at her a second time--"we have something. I don't know what it is, but I know what it could become."
Something stirred within Luna's breast, something akin to a tender bloom unfurling to greet the springtime sun after a remorseless and prolonged winter. It was delicate, fragile, and something she believed destroyed a long time ago. While she couldn't say what it was, having it back was a tremendous relief. The deep and hidden places within her sinuses burned with a raging inferno while the corners of her eyes had hot stabbing pinpricks that were almost unbearable.
Looking down at the foal she sheltered beneath her wing, she examined his face with great care. It was unlikely that he was stomped on as he had claimed--though being stepped on had most certainly happened. She saw no breaks in the skin, no evidence of hard, sharp hooves smashing into soft, exposed flesh. Overcast was too aware, too alert, and too capable to be seriously hurt. As awful as it looked, it wasn't as bad as it could be, and now that she had calmed down a bit, she could see it quite clearly. A failure had still happened, corrections were necessary, and something had to be done to prevent incidents such as this one in the future.
There was a lot that needed to happen, and it all started with a talk with her sister.
When the need to sniffle announced itself, Luna ignored it. Becoming emotional would solve nothing. Sighing, she cast a quick glance at the foals around her and then tried to collect her thoughts as the sniffles demanded her attention. Overcast posed a real threat to both the students and staff; as much as it pained her to think of it, expelling him might be the best option for keeping the peace. But it would also be the worst option for Overcast, and would do absolutely nothing to help him with his troubles.
If he was expelled, she would not abandon him, though she was uncertain as to what could be done. A dark maw awaited him, a bad end that she was not convinced that he could save himself from. What he needed, as much as it galled her to admit it, were a few friends. Close friends. It was exactly what she needed as well, though Luna had trouble connecting to most adults. She'd seen far too many of their dreams to ever fully trust them, just as Overcast had overheard the very worst in his fellow students.
What Luna needed was her sister, who was also her friend.
"You're a depressing disaster," Avocado said to Overcast. "What you need is to be exposed to better ponies. Like my family." The young filly looked up at the colt beside her, half-smiled, and was immediately blinded by an avalanche of cotton candy pink mane. "Some time in the country might do you good. I can't say we're perfect, but we are different. Canterlot is a snobby place, full of snobby ponies."
"The country?" Though swollen, Overcast's lip made a valiant attempt to curl back into a sneer of horrified disgust. "Leave the city? Leave behind civilisation? Abandon culture?"
"Yeah, silly." Leaning in close, Almanac peered out from between the strands of her mane at Overcast. "Fresh air. Sunshine. Clear skies. Open fields with flowers and trees full of birds."
"Absolutely wretched."
"Ponies are nicer though. I think we're more honest. More helpful. More friendly."
"Perhaps. But boredom."
"Oh, there's no time for boredom," Almanac replied with a dismissive wave of her hoof. "There's stuff to be planted, stuff to be picked, there's eggs to collect, gardens to weed, stuff has to go to market, and there's always work to do in the kitchen so we can store up food for winter."
"That sounds..."
"Wonderful?" Almanac said with a hopeful smile.
"Completely horrendous."
"Hmph." The green filly launched a dismissive snort in Overcast's general direction and she might have rolled her eyes, but it was difficult to tell with all the flowing pink strands of her mane in the way. "So says the flagitious scofflaw."
"You're not wrong," Overcast said, his voice now low and strained thin. "Princess Luna, what is to become of me?"
"Good question, Overcast. What do you think should be done with you?"
"If I am cast out of school, then I shall continue my work out in the world. I will expose every secret, every vulgar bit of gossip, every adulterous conversation. The truth must be made known. I'm not keen on what will surely become of me, but somepony has to do it."
"Overcast... just what will that accomplish?"
"Wednesday"--he said her name in a weary way--"ponies have to be made sorry. You weren't sorry until you were caught. Until every horrible thing is exposed, nothing will ever change."
"But that... that... Overcast, that will wreck everything."
"Maybe things need to be wrecked, Wednesday. Otherwise, how can they be fixed?"
"So what then... what will you do? Just... just walk up to a mare and tell her that her husband talks about cheating on her?"
"Yes, Wednesday, I'll do exactly that."
Reaching up to rub his broad chin, Top Notch stood thoughtful for a moment, and then said, "I do believe that your plan ends with you being tarred and feathered. Or worse. You caused a panic in the school and look what happened. You'll be exiled."
"You'll be stopped, Overcast. This is... this is pointless. While your heart might be in the right place, your mind isn't. If you try to do this, others will rise up against you. You will be stopped somehow. I hate to break this to you, Overcast, but you are not the hero."
"Then I have the dirt ready and expose those who might thwart me, Wednesday. I've been thinking about this quite a lot."
"Should we be talking about banishment and exile with Princess Luna sitting right here with us?" asked Almanac. "Feels insensitive."
Lips pursed into a thoughtful-but-pouty moue, Luna had nothing to say about this.
When Luna did not respond, Almanac had more to say. "Maybe Overcast isn't wrong. Maybe ponies need a shocking reminder that their actions have consequences. Maybe, just maybe, if ponies behaved themselves and didn't act like snobby jerks, Overcast wouldn't be motivated to do... whatever it is that he's planning to do. Whatever happens, Overcast was met halfway."
"Why, thank you, Almanac."
"No! No! No!" Waving one front leg from side to side, Wednesday vehemently shook her head with each refusal. "What a terrible thing to say, Almanac! Just terrible!"
"He fixed my glasses," the avocado-green filly replied. "And he was nice to me. I keep my nose clean so I have nothing to worry about. Others will get what they so rightly deserve."
"How can you take his side on this?" Wednesday demanded.
"Well, I just thought about it, and all I could think about was how much it hurt to be snubbed. Everything that's happened has made me want to quit school. No... worse than that... there's been a few dark hours when I've wanted to quit life. So maybe it's time for others to be on the receiving end."
"But that doesn't make things better!" Wednesday shouted in exasperation.
"Neither does ignoring the problem for the sake of civility and hoping that it will just go away for whatever reason so that we all--"
"Topper, not you too!"
"Whinny, I'm not taking his side, but I am trying to understand it."
"Princess Luna"--turning her desperate gaze upon the Princess of the Night, Wednesday tried to appeal to the alicorn's sense of reason--"what do you think would happen if you went around telling ponies what other ponies dream? What would happen if you exposed everypony's secrets? I know that you have to see some awful things. But these are dreams. Dreams aren't always intentional. Sometimes, they're just... they're just, well, they don't make sense. I know that sometimes dreams reveal our innermost desires and reveal our dark sides. But we don't always act upon the things we dream."
"But we do say lots of things and I think that's intentional, so I don't know if this is a valid comparison, Wednesday."
"Topper!"
"Sorry, Whinny. Dreams just happen and we're there for them, like a foal attending class. Saying bad things is more intentional."
"But surely, sometimes we say things we don't mean. For whatever reason. Surely there are reasons." Wednesday started to back away, but halted when her hindquarters bumped the desk. "They don't have to be good reasons. It doesn't make it alright. Ponies do stupid things but I don't think there should be anarchy because of it."
"But this presents another problem."
"And that is, Topper?"
"Well, Whinny... it sets a precedent that we shouldn't trust others to do what they say. If we become aware of what is being said, and they are voicing their desires or what have you, and then we trust them to not go through with what's been said, then we're trusting them not to keep their word. I think. This is all very confusing to me. I'm not a fast thinker. I need hours, sometimes days to present a rational and well-spoken argument. It never pays to be hasty."
"He's got something of a point," Luna said, finally interjecting an opinion into this discussion.
Fuming, Wednesday shook her head. "I don't like how life is complicated. Not one bit."
Overcast squirmed beneath Luna's wing, a clear sign that he'd been babied enough. Though he wobbled a bit, and was a bit off balance, he seemed well enough--though he looked truly awful. The sort of awful that would make a mother worry. Luna thought of Overcast's mother and wondered how she must worry. While it would be tribalist to say it aloud, pegasus mothers were different in some fundamental way. It wasn't that other types of ponies were bad mothers, or were somehow lacking--pegasus mares were just different.
Almost smiling, Luna thought of Fluttershy, and wanted to be close to the sunny yellow pegasus again. There was a certain strength to her, but also a valuable serenity. Sighing, Luna pushed these distractions from her mind, and focused instead on the group of foals clustered around her. There could be no doubting it; Almanac Avocado was one of them. For better or worse, she was a part of this clique, this coterie of mismatched sorts. It made Luna worry though, because little Almanac looked up at Overcast with the same worshipful expression of unabashed adoration that Overcast had when he looked up at his Dreamwalker.
There was a herd dynamic at work, Luna realised. Wherever she might go, Overcast would follow. And where Overcast went, little Almanac would no doubt be right behind him, because that was the nature of things. It terrified Luna that this development even existed, and there were dangerous implications; if she fell into shadow, others would most certainly follow. But there were the others to think about as well. Wednesday was undeniably sincere in her desire to save Overcast from himself, which meant that she too would be right behind him, no doubt trying to warn him, and Topper would tag along because Wednesday was just that sort of filly.
A hunch told Luna that Wednesday and Top Notch would be inseparable. Perhaps it was instinct, or a touch of alicorn prognostication. Wednesday would be forever grateful that Topper had given her a chance and gotten to know her during her most awkward of awkward phases, and as for Topper--well, Topper was a settler. Once settled into place, he would never budge. Canterlot was full of these sorts of ponies and for whatever reason, Celestia prized them and adored them.
"I'm thirsty," Overcast announced.
Luna had a faint inkling of what she had to do, but first, she had to talk to her sister.
Leveling her stern gaze upon Wednesday, she said, "There is much that needs to be done and I need a pony that I can trust. You'll do."
"I'll do for what?" asked Wednesday.
"I need somepony to be Overcast's nurse and to look after him." Luna's bare explanation wasn't enough, so she elaborated thusly: "Right now, Overcast is in a heap of trouble. I need somepony to keep him out of trouble. Given all that has happened"--she hesitated, knowing that her words might be considered problematic--"I am not certain that the staff can be trusted. Things are strange, though I don't know why. Overcast was correct about one thing, and that somepony should have fixed Almanac's glasses. There is something amiss and something tells me that this has been a problem for quite some time. I can't say what is wrong exactly, because there is no one thing that I can single out. Just a lot of little troubling things that disturb me."
What she didn't say aloud was her own realisation; Celestia too had to know something was amiss, and Luna's appointment to the head of the detention program was no coincidence. She looked down at Overcast for a short time, then glanced over at Almanac, who hadn't taken her eyes off the colt. The problem with good ponies, Luna thought to herself, was that they did not listen to troublemakers. At least, not in the ways that it was prudent. Something had tweaked Overcast in the wrong way, and sent him into a downward spiral. Help should have been had long before this point--a clear indicator of system failure.
Yes, something was amiss.
Something electric jolted through Luna's mind as she became more and more aware and her heightened alicorn senses came into play. Turning to Wednesday, she said, "Trust no one. However strange this might sound, be suspicious and be bold. Trust no one. Stay together, at least until I have a chance to talk to my sister. Listen to me very carefully. The teachers have to be aware of the fact that Overcast can eavesdrop on their wrongdoing. While I cannot say why, this... this alarms me in some way. While I do not think this is a serious threat, it does feel... off. Yes, it feels off in some way. Reprisal is possible. So stay together."
"You're serious--"
"I am," Luna replied in her most commanding tone. "I cannot say what will happen, and that bothers me. The very fact that something could happen sets me on edge. Normally, I would dismiss my thoughts as dangerous paranoia. I must confess, I am prone to that, given what I know as the Dreamwalker. But this, this feels--"
"Knowing that everypony is out to get you doesn't make you paranoid."
"Overcast, stop that. Stop that at once. Do not make this worse. Cease your rapscallionry at once. Just... give it a rest, in the modern parlance."
"Do you really think that Overcast might be in danger?" asked Top Notch.
"I do not know and that is the problem. The possibility of it vexes me."
"I understand," Top Notch said. "Really, I do. There's clearly things going on that shouldn't be going on, and that leaves the doors open to even worse things that might be going on."
"Clever Topper," Wednesday said.
"Thank you, Whinny."
"Yes, clever Topper." Luna cleared her throat. "My sister might have some insight. It is time I spoke with her about a great many things. Do as I say though, and stick together."
Nodding, Wednesday replied, "Yes, of course, Princess Luna."
"What a suckup--"
"Quiet, Flunkius," Luna said to Overcast.
"Hey!"
"Overcast... do you know of a quiet out of the way place where you might go? A secluded place?"
"I have lots of those," he replied.
"Good. Go to them. Keep a low profile. I will come for you later. For now, I'd rather not make the whole school aware of the fact that I am aware of whatever problem lurks in the shadows. There is... there is something wrong. But I cannot say what it is or how I know. Overcast, use your ears to keep your companions safe. Or... better yet, try to teach your companions how to listen."
"What?"
"You heard me."
The first prickle of panic tingled Luna's spine.
"Stay together," she commanded. "Trust one another."
"Right. Will do. Well then, I'm in charge." Wednesday ignored Overcast's sneer and stood tall. "Overcast... where do we go and how do we get there?"
"I know a place," he replied, "and the best way to get there is through the service tunnels used by housekeeping and groundskeeping."
"Those should be inaccessible to students." This earned Luna the full impact of Overcast's leaden stare. If it were anypony else, she might have smacked them for such an insolent and haughty act, or at least given them a good dressing down. But Overcast had a talent, and she did not wish to discourage it.
In fact, she very much wanted to cultivate it.
"I will return to you when I can. Wednesday, I shall carry you and Overcast down the stairs. Do not worry about how I shall find you, I shall find you. Overcast"--she looked down at him and he up at her--"you and I have much to discuss. But for now, keep your friends safe."
His only response was a solemn nod.
"In the event that this is nothing," Luna said to those around her, "please, do not think less of me. Come. Let us go. Fetch your belongings and let us depart."
"This is exciting," Almanac said. "Now I have to stay in school just to see what happens!" |
Lunatic Fringe | Annulus | It was always so difficult to begin, which is to say, beginnings were hard. Luna was great at ending things, but starting them? Going to her sister seemed easy enough, but it meant starting something. It wasn't so long ago that Luna had convinced herself that her sister had put her in charge of detention to damage her standing. To make her somehow even more hated. But quite the opposite had happened; Luna was now a reverent figure of worship to at least one, and she was confident that she was friends with three more.
To think that all of this could have been ruined by paranoia and accusation.
Just a while ago she had convinced herself that her sister was out to get her. She was her own worst enemy and in a moment of cold honesty, she acknowledged that. Crazy-thoughts were crazy-thoughts, and Luna still had them. She was having them right now, she realised, as she delayed what was vitally necessary. Why did she do this to herself, and more importantly, how could she stop?
Looking around her, Luna saw the guard out in force. They were everywhere and in great numbers. Something was going on, but Luna's current state of mind barely allowed her to register it. If she became involved with the guard, she might never make it to her sister. That was how these things worked. When Luna wanted a distraction, she found one. A part of her wanted to go and find her young friends, just to make certain they were fine. But that too, was a distraction, something that would keep her from her sister.
The inevitable could no longer be delayed. Reaching out with her mind, Luna sought out her sister's location. She felt out all of the could-be places, but found them empty. A bit more searching revealed that Celestia was in the kitchens, which meant one of two things. Celestia was either advising the staff about meals, or she was grazing. The most obvious answer was that she was grazing, because that was what she was wont to do in times of trouble.
Reaching through the aether, Luna felt her way to her desired location--and vanished.
Golden light streamed in through the window and bathed Celestia in warm sunshine. Which was really an impressive feat because said window was in the shadow of the garden wall and facing away from the sun's current given location. Luna marveled at it for a moment--she could do the same neat trick with moonbeams--and then she noticed that snacks had thoughtfully been laid out for her.
Celestia sat on a cushion next to a low table. A second cushion awaited, this one covered in gaudy silver stars. For whatever reason, it seemed as though Celestia knew that this meeting would happen. Luna stood there, trying to make sense of things, while also trying to quiet her own thoughts, which were noisy and scattered. There was banana milk on the table--smashed bananas whipped and frothed in sweet, creamy milk--and other treats that Luna was entirely too fond of. It was the worst sort of bait, because Luna lacked the self control and willpower to resist. If only such a spread had been laid out on that fateful night, Luna might have resisted the siren song of darkness.
"You always did like kitchens," Celestia remarked. "They were your happy place. I've never understood your outright fascination with them, but I've always believed it was one of the best parts of you."
This was a staging kitchen, a rather large place with a lot of empty space. Food was brought here, final preparation was done, and everything was loaded onto carts and trolleys so that it could be served in one of the many dining halls. Staging kitchens were of particular interest, because they were organised chaos. Just like post offices. But at the moment, this kitchen was quiet. Deserted, save for two. The tile floor was clean, gleaming even, and the appliances were all spotless. If anything, the room was too clean, and didn't look lived in.
At least the cupboards weren't full of books.
"Kitchens are a place where laughter is made," Luna said to her sister, "and happiness can be measured out by the spoonful."
"I don't know if I understand that, Luna."
"I think that if anypony does, it might be Pinkie Pie."
"Are you going to sit down?" asked Celestia.
"I would, but that means starting up a conversation. And that scares me."
"Banana milk, Luna."
"I spoke with Twilight," Luna confessed.
"I know," her sister replied. "I returned the cast iron skillet. But not the corn fritters. I ate those."
"I'm sorry."
"For what, Luna?"
Did this mean she had a lot to be sorry for? Was Celestia keeping track of every little thing? Every little slight? Distracted, Luna could not help but to ponder this. Conflicted, she stuffed this down before it could become a problem and warily eyed her sister. "I'm sorry that I spoke to Twilight before I spoke to you. I wanted to speak to you... but it was hard. Harder than you know."
There were a thousand things to say and only so much time to say them in.
"Come, Luna. Sit down with me. Let us get to know each other better."
"Oh, there is much I know about you," Luna began whilst she remained standing in place.
To which Celestia replied with, "Such as what, Dearest Sister?"
"I know that you fear and hate the warm open spaces beneath a blanket," Luna said, almost whispering out her words as if they were some kind of troubling confession. "When you encounter those empty spaces, you are overcome with guilt because you have excess when so many have nothing at all. Because of this, you like blankets to be smooth and tight over you, or to have no blankets at all. You would fill those empty spaces if you could, so that others might share in your warmth."
Celestia blinked in surprise.
"I have walked between the many wrinkles of your mind. There is much I know."
"Do you know how much I love you?"
This... this wasn't fair. There was no way for Luna to answer this question. It wasn't a secret, which she dabbled in. It wasn't connected to guilt, which drew her in like flies to filth. Celestia made no effort to hide this, which made Luna utterly and completely blind to it. Because it could not be measured, because it could not be known, Luna rather tended to treat it as if it did not exist. Was this a weakness, and if so, was her sister exploiting it? It set off a firestorm of doubt and paranoia in the recesses of her mind, and she thought all of the worst things, the most terrible things--the very sorts of things she could never stop herself from thinking.
Rather than feel joy, as might be intended, Luna felt somewhat resentful.
Which was all kinds of wrong of course, and as a result, guilt and shame riddled her guts like bad cramps, no doubt mirroring the aftermath of Twilight Sparkle's soap swallowing splatastrophe. This sudden onset of emotion made her want to flee the kitchen and this impossible conversation. Everything had gone from awkward to unbearable in no time at all. Filling her starved lungs with much-needed air, Luna waited while hoping that the moment would pass. Standing there, uncertain, wishing to flee, Luna thought of a few thinkful thunks, but her mind did not clear.
The muscles in her legs knotted, as if taking pre-emptive measures to prevent her from running. A cold, clammy, unwelcomed, unwanted prickle manifested just behind both ears, which made her face feel too small, and far too tight. Why did this happen? She stood there, powerless as if spellbound, and cast a blank stare upon her sister. If Celestia had an inkling of Luna's internal distress, she showed no sign. Her face revealed nothing, save for a sense of kindness.
"I came for help," Luna somehow managed to say, overcoming her body's steadfast refusal to speak.
"So did I."
This response was unexpected; so much so it crumbled some of Luna's defenses.
Recovering a bit of herself, she stumbled closer to the table, teetered a bit, kept her balance only because she was a creature of purest majesty, sat down upon the cushion laid out for her, and then eyeballed her cold, frothy banana milk. She deserved it. Earned it. As soon as she knew that her magic could be trusted, she would drink it. But for now, she just stared at it awkwardly.
"I reached a conclusion that you made me the Princess of Detention." Betrayed by her own mouth, Luna sat there for a moment in shocked disbelief. Before she could recover, the traitorous giblet that was her tongue had more to say. "Of course, I managed to convince myself that you did it so I would be hated. So that you would be the brighter one by comparison. Even one of the students said something about it. There were a great many crazy-thoughts in the past few days. It caused me much distress."
Passive, with no visible reaction to be seen upon her face, Celestia just sat there.
The sisters eyeballed one another in the way that only sisters could.
This continued until Celestia broke the stalemate by saying, "You don't make it easy, you know."
To which Luna struggled to reply with, "I suppose I do not."
"You came to me and asked me for something to do. Something to ease the lonely hours. But then you absolutely refused to talk about what you wanted, or what you needed, and when I tried to ask questions, you grew defensive and sullen. When I tried pressing, to gain just a tiny bit of helpful information, you attacked me and fled."
"I did." Though, in her own defense, Luna swiftly added, "Attack is such a strong statement. I had one of my turns, I suppose."
"What choice did I have? What options did you leave me? There are times when I have no choice but to inquire because your wants are so vague."
"Well, I suppose, to be fair, I did receive a task that has eased the lonely hours."
Both Luna and the glass of banana milk were sweating now. Like a desert wanderer, she cast her longing gaze upon the fat droplets of condensation that rolled down the sides of the glass. It was cold; it had to be cold and was best made with almost-frozen bananas. Her tongue slipped out to lick her lips and when it touched the velvet fuzz of her chin she shivered. An explosive snort from across the table jolted her to attention; when she looked up, she saw a smile on her sister's face.
"Just drink it, Luna. Why torture yourself? Why all this drama?"
How could she explain that she didn't trust her magic in her emotional state? If she tried to mention it, what if Celestia took it wrong? What if it came out as a sign that she could not be trusted? Or that she might somehow botch her duty to move the moon? Revealing that there was a problem was dangerous, because doing so would shine a light upon all the other hidden faults. Still, she very much wanted to drink; the waiting was torture and Luna had faint hope that it might last.
Sitting on her cushion, longing for her banana milk, Luna was a total cutetastrophe.
"We have a villain in our midst," Luna blurted out.
"Many. More than a few. Did you have a particular one in mind, Sister?"
Thinking of Overcast caused a new flood of emotion and Luna became increasingly jittery. This was getting harder. Why was this so hard? She took a deep breath, then another, and then, when she thought of Overcast once more, she felt better. Maybe not calmer, but better. On the table, there were cookies, cakes, tarts, and even little sandwiches. Seeing the sandwiches made Luna remember Almanac's remark about beanstalks, and this almost caused a fit of nervous laughter that would be impossible to explain.
"Overcast," Luna said at last.
"I thought today was rather sunny," Celestia replied.
Luna returned a deadpan stare, but still wanted to laugh about beanstalks.
"It's a troubling incident," Celestia said and the tone of her voice shifted in an unpleasant way. "He's caused quite a commotion. I don't even know where to begin. There is so much to tell you, Luna. Sometimes, starting feels impossible when everything is so complicated." Tilting her head, she struck a thoughtful pose. "Before I begin, there is something I want to say to you, Luna. Something of utmost importance. Something you should know."
"And that is?" asked Luna.
"I trust your paranoia. Yes, I know how strange that sounds, and I don't know if I can explain myself, but I trust in your paranoia. Right now, I am so overwhelmed. Discord's return. Everything happening. The wedding. There is something wrong with my school. Twilight enchanted a doll and ensorcelled Ponyville. The damage was extensive."
"There is most certainly something amiss with the school," Luna replied. Her sister's words got stuck in her ears, the part about trusting paranoia in particular. How did one respond to that? Just the mere mention of it caused a fresh outbreak of more paranoia. It was a peculiar thing to say, without a doubt.
"Overcast's outburst caused a bit of a panic," Celestia began, and she closed her eyes in a thoughtful way. "Of course, I had to find out the truth once I was informed. I had the guard go to collect Mister Burr... but he was gone. When the guard went to his home, they found it in a condition that could only be described as... abandoned. All the house plants were dead. The food was rotten. Everything was covered in dust. Nopony had lived there for months."
"How... strange."
"You have no idea, Luna." Opening up her eyes, Celestia transfixed Luna with a calculating and cunning stare. "Over half of the school's teachers have vanished. They're just gone. And their homes are also in varying states of abandonment. Some recent, and some appearing long-term. Just gone. As if they'd just never existed."
"What?" Reaching out with her mind, without even thinking about it, Luna lifted up the sweating glass of banana milk and greedily gulped down almost half of it in one go.
"Half of my teachers are missing. They cannot be found. Even with magical methods. They are gone."
Licking the banana froth from her lips, Luna was unable to think of a suitable response.
"The school... my school... something went wrong. All of the teachers... changed in some way. Recently. I cannot put my hoof on when. But some of them started to become... cold. Distant. These were ponies I knew, Sister. And they avoided me. Some of them were my students before they became teachers. I knew them. I knew them... and they refused my invites for supper and for tea. They... avoided me. A while back, I started to wonder if Discord had done something and I was going to begin researching the problem... but Cadance... she became... I don't even know how to talk about Cadance."
Luna thought about Overcast's harsh lesson when he fixed Almanac's glasses. Yes, the teachers should have done something--but didn't. Which made everything said by Celestia even more intriguing. Setting down her glass, Luna composed her thoughts for a brief time, and then, with a much clearer head, she involved herself in this difficult conversation.
"Overcast mentioned the teachers were acting strange. There's a student, Almanac Avocado... her glasses were broken. Overcast fixed them and he, well, he said something very damaging to Almanac about how the teachers didn't care about her. And he used her broken glasses as an example."
"Well, he's absolutely right," Celestia replied without a second's delay. "Surely, it's a symptom. But of what? I strongly suspect that Discord has sown chaos in the school. Perhaps to cripple the unicorns that pose the very worst sort of threat to him."
"Sister, you were the one that put all of your eggs into one basket."
"See, Luna... there's that paranoia that I value. That right there. I have, in fact, put all of my eggs into one basket. And now, Equestria's most precious and most valuable place of education and learning is in crisis. The teachers have gone missing. There's one thing that just doesn't fit together though."
"And that is?" asked Luna.
"Mister Burr's home was abandoned months ago, before Discord got free."
"Perhaps Discord's influence could be felt before he freed himself from his statue," Luna suggested.
"If that were true, why didn't we feel it?"
This stupefied Luna, and she did not have a good answer. Not at all. Lifting her glass once more, she drained it with two gulps, licked her lips, and then put the glass back down upon the table. Something was off, and worse than that, something had been off for a while. It had gone without notice. Leaning over the table, Luna began to try to make the pieces fit, but she didn't recognise the puzzle laid out before her.
"I am unable to give this my attention," Celestia said to Luna. "Something... there is something wrong with Cadance. I've never tried magic like that before. I fear I might have made a mistake, Luna. We bicker constantly about the coming wedding and all this fighting... it drains me in some strange way. I'm weakened, Luna. I cannot concentrate properly. Cannot focus. I am positive that I can fix it, and I will do so after the wedding when things calm down and--"
"If things calm down," Luna said, interrupting. "It is dangerous to assume that things will calm down. All manner of thousand year old evil is returning. There is a dark shadow to the north, if the yaks are to be believed. If Discord's influence did something to the school without our notice, just imagine what else it might have done to the world at large. All of our carefully laid protections and the dangerous things we've sealed away. He may have undone a great many protections so that the world might be thrown into chaos. Which is what he needs to gain strength."
"Your pessimism does you credit, Luna."
Conflicted, Luna did not know how to respond to that.
"Luna, I am struggling with the most basic of tasks. Even my magic feels depleted somehow. I don't know if Discord has hexed me or if my suspicions are true and there is something wrong with Cadance. It's like... it's like she pulls all of the love and warmth out of me when we bicker. Our arguing leaves me tired. I must make a very strange request of you, Dearest Sister."
"And that is?"
"Avoid Cadance at all costs. For now. Until I can figure out what is going on and sort it out. Keep your distance. And please, please, I am begging you... find out what is wrong with my school. You're the only pony I can trust to do what must be done. Your paranoia and natural suspicion are my best hope."
"Those are the very things that were my undoing--"
"But you are getting better now," Celestia interjected, "and now they can be your strength. Please. Please. I am spread so thin right now. There's only so much I can do."
"And you could do better if you knew that your school is safe."
Across the table, Celestia nodded while saying, "I am trusting you with the most precious thing I have."
"So then, what is to be done with Overcast?" asked Luna.
"That is up to you," was Celestia's slow and careful response. "You are in charge of disciplinary actions, Luna. His fate is to be decided by you. However, there is something I want."
"You have but to ask."
"I want him to be made a prefect. A praepostor."
"You wish to reward him?"
"Oh, goodness no. You misunderstand. I want the punishment to fit the crime. If he wishes to snoop and go dropping eaves, then his ne'er-do-well antics will be made to serve the public good. I do not wish to tell you how to do your job, oh Princess of Detention, but in my school, we have a long, long history of making the punishment fit the crime. Not that we've had that many troublemakers. But... things happen."
"You also wish to send a message to the remaining teachers and students that they are being monitored," Luna said as her sister's intentions clarified in her mind. "Am I to revive my role as Inquisitor?"
Celestia did not respond right away. She sat with her lips pursed in a thoughtful way, and when she did finally respond, she was not the sunny optimist that presented herself to the public at large. "No. That is unnecessary, for now. We're not dealing with chaos cultists. Though it does seem that Overcast is gifted at causing chaos."
"You have no idea," Luna mentioned. "If only you knew what he has planned. He means to upend society and prove that friendship is fraudulent."
"Why am I not surprised?" Then, Celestia asked, "What is to be done with him?"
"I would save him. If I can. He is me. But he's only just started down the path."
"Can he be saved?" asked Celestia.
The question caused Luna considerable pain, both physical and mental. A sort of cold anguish that lingered like malaise in the mind and a chilly ache in the joints. "I want to believe that he can. Whatever is to be done, I am not yet sure what to do, or how to go about it."
"If he is to become a villain, then I want him kept in school so that we can keep an eye on him, Luna. Expelling him would be disastrous, I feel. I reviewed his student record. His potential is considerable."
"Apparently, he is enrolled in advanced matter manipulation classes."
"Yes, there is that and that sets off warning bells. That should not be. There must have been a mistake made, or some kind of oversight."
Fearful of what the truth might bring, Luna dared to reveal even more. "I am almost certain that he is using pain to fuel his spellcasting."
"So little Overcast dares to dabble in the dark arts, does he?" If Celestia was surprised by this, she did nothing to show it. "That is becoming increasingly common. There's been incidents." A pained expression caused her face to contort in an unpleasant way.
"Incidents?" Ears forward, Luna chose to be direct. "Is there anything that I should know about? The guard that brought Overcast to me said there was no procedure to follow. But what you just said seems to contradict what the guard had to say."
"My previous student"--voice cracking, Celestia struggled to get the words out--"the one before Twilight, she... she betrayed me. There was... things happened. She... she turned to darkness. There was an incident. But it was covered up. She's gone. In exile. She's... well, she's off-world."
Luna nodded--but she did not press her sister for more information.
"I'll see to it that you get a copy of the report," Celestia said, almost whispering and each word was spoken with pained hesitation. "It might help you in your duties. Why, it might even help you with Overcast."
"Thank you." It seemed like the right thing to say, but it also felt as though it wasn't enough to soothe Celestia's troubled soul and Luna very much wanted to make her sister feel better.
"If only I had your sense of suspicion, Luna. Things might have turned out differently. I... I very much want to assume the very best of my little ponies. I want to believe in their goodness. Sometimes, I allow myself to be blinded. Had you been here, you might have saved her before she was lost to the darkness. But... she is lost. Overcast though... I am greatly relieved that your paths have crossed. Save my students, Luna. Especially the ones that flirt with shadow. I am trusting you."
Unsure of what to say, Luna did not respond.
"You know, Luna... I feel that your downfall is my fault--"
"We've been over this, Sister. I made terrible choices."
"Luna, please, hear me out. Something you've said has given me pause. I pushed you into your role as Equestria's Inquisitor in Chief. At the time, it felt very necessary. But it made the little ponies fear you. It made them not trust you. And I did shine all the brighter by comparison. However necessary it might have been for our survival, it was a mistake. One you paid for. I'll not make that mistake again. Ever. The cost is much too dear. While you might be the Princess of Detention, or however you might see yourself during one of your flights of fancy, I do not want you hated or mistrusted.
"Because of your imagination and your sense of fun, you have a way with the littlest of little ponies, and I want them to trust you. This was a calculated move on my part. When the littlest of the little ponies grow up, they shall become little ponies that trust you. Implicitly. If I am completely honest, you might even have a few followers that trust you more than they do me... and that is a price I am willing to pay so that you might be happy. I am sharing my students with you."
"Fantastic." A wry smirk haunted Luna's face, a grim spectre of sarcasm. "So far I have a close-minded traditionalist that can't say no, a trumpet player unfit for the school's marching band, a book-loving nerd, and an anti-Twilight. Oh, and the book-loving nerd believes the anti-Twilight is the best thing since sliced bread and just might be worshipping him right now as we speak. He's no-doubt poisoning her mind with all manner of talk about how friendship is fraudulent, the teachers are all the worst, and parents are awful monsters that can't be trusted."
"Oh dear," Celestia sighed.
"All of them are very dear to me," Luna confessed. "You may keep your cream that rises to the top. I adore my collection of misfits."
"Somepony has to love them," Celestia replied, "otherwise, how will they live up to their full potential?"
"I suppose there was a time when the teachers might have helped them." Speaking her thoughts aloud, Luna shared her innermost reflections. "But something has gone wrong. Teachers once compassionate and thoughtful have turned to indifference and apathy. Well, the teachers that remain, that is. How will the school even operate with so many teachers now missing? A lot of struggling students are bound to slip through the cracks. I suppose I must be the one to save them."
Across the table, Celestia offered up a single solemn nod.
"I have no idea what I am doing and I am bound to make mistakes."
"Luna, I have made mistakes. Those are to be expected."
"But there are lives at stake. Futures."
A soft sigh escaped Celestia and she turned her head away. "Mistakes are made. My previous student paid for my mistakes. You have paid for my mistakes. That... that is the cost of rule, Dearest Sister. Everypony pays for your mistakes while you... you get to live with them."
"I wish I'd come to talk sooner."
Turning her head once more, this time Celestia's gaze focused upon Luna.
"My thoughts betray me. Often. I think absolutely crazy things. Sometimes I think the worst of you. And also myself." When Luna swallowed, the hard lump in her throat did not go down. "Overcast thinks the worst of others, and he may be right. He developed his gifts at the worst possible time and wasn't ready for what he discovered. The school is in crisis and all he's heard just confirms what he's already convinced himself is true."
Eyebrow arching, Celestia waited.
"The same thing happened to me," Luna said and the pebbly texture of her tongue turned to dry sand. "The same thing happened to me. I came into my own during a time of crisis. I ended Grogar and his cadre of necromancers. That... that was only the beginning. As Inquisitor, I hunted down the chaos cultists that aided and assisted Discord. I saw the very worst in ponies. All of my worst suspicions were confirmed. Everything I believed to be true... was. It was."
"You robbed the God-King of his worshippers and weakened him significantly," Celestia said to her sister. "His defeat might not have been possible otherwise. I'm sorry that it had such a cost. Because of you, because of your actions, because you sacrificed so much of yourself, there is an Equestria. There is--"
"An Equestria that rejected me!" Luna spat out these words and her humours suffered churning turmoil. "An Equestria that feared me! An Equestria that remembers nothing of what I did for them! I was forgotten! Your school doesn't even teach about the Inquisition or that period of our history!"
"It... doesn't. And I am sorry. That is my doing. I wanted you to be able to return with a clean slate. I wanted you to have a chance, Dearest Sister."
When Luna could not fault this logic, all of her anger turned to profound sadness.
"I thought I was doing the right thing. I wanted to give you a chance to escape your past. When I came up with this idea, I was still young. Stupid. Foolish. Unwise. You were always the planner and the plotter, Luna. Your paranoia, your suspicion, your leeriness, your natural caution and wariness, these things I am not. You were always the one to think ahead and conceive of every possible outcome. I'm not gifted in that way. It doesn't come naturally to me. I had to learn as I tried to hold Equestria together and mistakes were made. Terrible mistakes that I spend every day regretting."
Lower lip protruding, Luna glared at her sister in the most glaringly way possible, but the remnants of her anger and foul mood had no substance. Still she tried, she tried with all due effort for intense glarification because the annoying little sunspot had it coming. Luna heeded the glarion call of annoyance for as long as she could, which wasn't long at all and her lower lip went flaccid. It was hard to stare down your big sister when stricken with performance anxiety.
"The world has no need of inquisitors," Celestia said, her voice soft and somehow reassuring. "But a Princess of Detention on the other hoof... the world has need of that. I want you to root out the cause, the source of trouble, and deal with it. I'm not going to tell you how to do your job, but I will give you every resource to get it done. I want my students safe. Healthy. Well-adjusted. I want them to trust their teachers again. I want my students to be as they were... before the school was plagued by all this gossip and derision. It wasn't always like this, you know. I mean, sure, there's always gossip. Foals are little chatterboxes.
"But it wasn't so... so... it wasn't so--"
"Malicious?"
"That seems like a harsh indictment of the current situation and I--"
"What you call harsh, I call honest. Half of your teachers have just gone missing and you have no idea why." Luna heard her sister swallow and she could not help but wonder if the lump was stuck in her throat.
"Well, you were the bearer of the Element of Honesty once."
"An inquisitor seeks truth." For whatever reason, stating the obvious brought Luna no satisfaction and she rather regretted her words. "It's funny, Sister. I made others tell the truth. I drew dishonesty out of them like poison. After being exposed to my... tender mercies, they would tell me everything. At my worst, I had the strongest connection to the Element of Honesty. It ruled my every action, for a time. Anything was permissible for the sake of discovering the truth.
"When the shadow entered my life, I became dishonest. I lost my way. I lost my connection to the elements in my possession, all of them. And when those precious connections were severed, I lost myself. Not to undermine your faith and confidence in our most powerful, most precious weapons, but there is a very real dark side to them. The need for truth pulled me into shadow. Every confession I extracted made my soul a little more callous."
"Well, that's unsettling," Celestia said with a huff.
"You shouldn't lie," Luna whispered. "It does not become you."
"I'm not lying--"
Luna silenced her sister with some softly whispered words: "Feigning ignorance is inherently dishonest."
"What are you going on about?"
"Celestia"--using her sister's name had a certain weightiness to it that left Luna uncomfortable--"I know for certain that the Element of Magic caused you to explore the aspects of dark magic. Dark magic. The darkest of magics. You know exactly that of which I speak. His magic. Som--"
"Say not his name!" A pained expression could be seen only for a fleeting second on Celestia's face, and then it was gone. A normal pony might have missed it, but Luna was no normal pony. Neither was Celestia, and her current expression showed that she knew that Luna had seen it. "It's true. I dabbled in that magic. I... well, I convinced myself that I needed to know how it worked so that I might free those spellbound by it. I wanted a cure... but it led me to dark places. I gained an understanding of it, but at such a cost."
"Had you been a little pony"--Luna's words were auditory ice--"you would have found yourself in my care for a full confession."
"We've both lived through extraordinary events. I suppose that is what makes us who and what we are. I've learned my lesson. Never again."
"Circumstance might make you a liar--"
"It might," Celestia snapped, "but should I have my way, never again. Circumstances be damned!"
"I understand." These words were softer now. Kinder. More gentle. For Luna, it felt good to say them. "Sometimes a healer must ingest poison to see what it does to one's own humours. Sometimes a little bit of poison in controlled amounts does the body a world of good."
"Perhaps," was Celestia's response, "but now I lie about the poisons I've swallowed because I am ashamed of the cures I've longed to discover."
"It's hard to be us," Luna said, nodding.
"I think, in hindsight, that the Elements of Harmony were bad for us," Celestia said to her sister. "We're beings of absolute power. I know that you know the old chestnut about absolute power and what it does. We have infinite potential, you and I, and when paired with the Elements... I cannot help but wonder if we upset the balance. Perhaps it is best for Twilight and her new friends to be the bearers. Each of them. Individually. Little ponies that they are. It might be for the better."
"Why is it so hard for us to talk like this?" asked Luna.
"We seem to be talking now."
"Yes, but the start. The beginning. Just... sitting down together. Why is it so difficult?"
"I wish I knew. Perhaps for you, it is because you flipped my room around. I bet the guilt is tearing you apart."
A crescent moon smile appeared upon Luna's face as if by magic.
"So... if you don't mind me asking, what are your plans for Overcast?"
"A lifetime of detention," Luna replied as her smile became a straight, thin line.
"That seems just a little bit harsh. Just a tiny wee bit."
"It's no less than he deserves. Like you said... the punishment must fit the crime. Overcast believes the world is a horrible and corrupt place. He might be right. But he will be made to serve, and in service, he will labour to make the world better. Through labour, he will make the world the way he wishes for it to be. Better."
"Luna--"
"I shall not lose him to darkness. He is too much like me. I can see that. Clearly."
"Luna, I was going to say that I trust you to do right. There is no need to explain yourself to me. If you honestly believe that a lifetime of service is what is necessary, then by all means, do exactly that." After some hesitation, she continued, "I will probably make an announcement tomorrow with the dawn. With Overcast as a praepostor, I expect some immediate change with the teachers that are left. Word will spread. You will, of course, continue to be the head of the school's disciplinary program, but unofficially, you will also be the head of the school's security. While there is more that I want from you, I fear it will be overwhelming to do too much at once."
Bowing her head slightly, Luna's response was as soft-spoken as it was gracious: "Thank you."
"Now that I know that what is dearest to me is getting sorted out, I can turn my attention to other things. Hopefully, Cadance will get hitched without a hitch. After that, if I am lucky, things will be calm enough for me to get everything organised. I may need your help. We'll play it by ear, Luna. For now, focus on the school... and stay far, far away from Cadance."
"Are you sure that making alicorns is a good idea?" When Luna saw her sister's brows furrow, she took this as a bad sign. A Celestia not confident in her own actions was strange and unknown. Watching for further signs, she dared to press the issue a little more. "They're not like us. Made, not born. There is no way to know the long-term consequences of such an act. It feels reckless, Sister."
More brow furrowing. Deeper wrinkles. A distant rather than focused gaze. Some flaring of the nostrils. All of these were bad signs. What was Celestia's endgame with this? Luna was an immortal being--though this came at a cost. A terrible price. Could it be that Celestia was attempting to stiff the bill? Randomly tinkering with the inner-workings of the universe was very much in theme with Celestia's character, but this felt especially risky. Some things, once broken, could not be fixed.
Both Luna and Celestia were born with unusual talents. Some might even say unique. At least in this era. Way back in the day, a great many unicorns were born with the talent to move the sun and the moon. But doing so drained them. Depleted them of their magic. Aged them prematurely. Celestia and Luna were born as alicorns--alicorns who by some strange and suspicious coincidence just so happened to have the talents for moving the celestial mechanics, the machinery of both the heavens and reality.
But they were not born immortal and with their death, things would go back to how they once were. Things happened. Death was delayed. Immortality could be had--but at a price. Alicorns were now all but extinct, with Celestia and Luna having outlived them. Coming back from her exile and meeting Cadance came as quite a shock for Luna. Hearing the circumstances for Cadance's creation, her ascension from a pegasus to an alicorn even more so.
It was impossible to know what Celestia was planning, but it felt oh so dangerous.
This was the sort of thing one expected for the Element of Magic to do--or former Element of Magic in Celestia's case. Yet, it was entirely unexpected. Rather than worry, Luna chose to focus on what she knew. She thought of Twilight Sparkle and then, either in a flash of insight or an instance of alicorn prognostication, she suspected that she knew Celestia's next move. The first seemed to be showing some serious design flaws and Celestia was already planning the second.
Keeping her thoughts to herself, Luna said nothing.
"I must go," Luna announced. "Overcast must be told of this joyous news, that he is to be rewarded for his actions. It will surely crush his spirits like nothing else will."
Confused, Celestia tilted her head off to one side.
"If you knew him, what I just said would make perfect sense."
"Oh." Then, a second later: "Can you stay a little longer?"
"When I left my little quirky quartet, I told them to go into hiding. All my senses told me something was wrong. They'll need to come out of hiding, and soon. This must be stressful for them."
"Well, by all means. Go to them. Ease their troubled minds. And Sister..."
"Yes?"
"Thank you. I hope we bump into each other again soon. Remember, you are trusted, and you are loved."
This time, the words came easy for Luna, who replied, "Thank you, Sister. You also, are loved."
"Go then... to those who need you most." |
Lunatic Fringe | The Princess of Detention & the Dungeon of Darkness | Some ponies kept clothes in their wardrobe. Frilly princess dresses, gowns, big poofy outfits that looked an awful lot like curtains stitched together in such a way that they could be draped off of a body in a manner most ridiculous. But not the Princess of the Night, no. Luna kept no clothes in her wardrobe; she kept WAR in her wardrobe, and plenty of it. Enough to spare, enough to go around. Princess Luna had the most terrifying closet space in all of Equestria, and perhaps all of the world.
She had gone to find her friends, but could sense only that they were somehow below her. Which meant that only one thing could be true: their enemies had struck, they were dead, and the quirky quartet were now buried somewhere on the school grounds. Luna would avenge them, but first, she needed the right tool for the job. Something suitable to inspire and sow terror. A weapon to be her herald--and she had just the thing.
Tucked in the wardrobe among the swords, maces, flails, flagellant cat-o'-nine-tails, axes, nunchaku, elastration applicators, sais, pliers, extractors, a collection of dental tools wrapped in a canvas carry-all, pincers, snips, chokers, hoof clamps, dock pressers, ear clips, and one curiously sharp pizza cutter, Luna had just the right tool for the job. There, in the middle of it all, was a chainsaw. Ponies had tried to tell her that it was a gardening tool, but Luna was no fool, no foal born yesterday. Clearly, war had changed during her long absence and mechanical meat mulcher technology had progressed to include such nightmarish implements.
Safety demanded that a chainsaw be wielded while wearing something called a hockey mask, and as luck would have it, Luna just so happened to keep one of those in her wardrobe as well. Not that she needed a mask to be safe, but it couldn't hurt to set a responsible example for the little ponies, all of whom were notoriously unsafe in their day to day practices.
One of her many duties was to craft scary dreams about workplace safety and industrial accidents, because little ponies were careless creatures with fragile, squishy bodies that stood no chance against remorseless mechanisation. Red was a bold, vivid primary colour and did not go well with soft, muted pastels. Why, the outcome could be quite garish as the contrasting colour palettes refused to harmonise with one another. Workplace safety was a requirement not only for reasons of health and well-being, but also for the sake of the artistically sensitive.
Luna was well-prepared for exuberant casual dismemberment.
What are you doing?
The voice came from the space between her ears, on the inside, a place where strangeness lived.
"We are... I am... I do not know what I am doing."
You are about to run amuck through the school with a chainsaw. Why?
It wasn't crazy when one spoke to themselves; rather, madness was choosing to answer. But this... this felt like something else. This was her voice, but it was somewhat unfamiliar. This voice seemed reasonable--dangerously so. It was a voice that wanted to be heard. Hesitating, Luna stared into her wardrobe and tried to make sense of this peculiar entirely nonsensical moment.
"What are you?" she asked.
A bit of dream magic, the spectres of old dead imaginary friends, a wisp of reality, residue of old nightmares, and your chronic fear of loneliness. If you do what you're about to do right now, you will be alone. Again.
A cold prickle danced along the length of Luna's spine.
Unlike the other voices within your mind, I want what is best for you. You go to avenge your friends, but I ask, do they need your revengeance? Think about what was said, Luna.
Pausing, ears twitching, Luna tried to recall anything that might be important. After a few seconds of sweaty contemplation, her mind presented a useful, relevant fact: Overcast mentioned the service tunnels beneath the school. Which would mean... they were underground. No doubt in a secure location where it would be difficult, if not downright impossible for somepony to sense them. Only Luna's alicorn senses could register that they were somewhere below. As everything clicked into place, Luna could not help but wonder what new and helpful madness had overtaken her.
I'll be around, Luna. Do nothing rash. Go and be with your new friends.
"This... you... acknowledging you has made you real, hasn't it?" she asked.
No response; nothing happened between her ears.
Probing her mind, she attempted to touch whatever had been there--but there was nothing to touch. As the seconds passed, even the memory became more and more dreamlike, to such a degree that Luna began to doubt that she'd heard anything at all. Maybe she hadn't actually heard anything. Perhaps this was one of her turns. But this had been a helpful turn and as she stared into her wardrobe, she clearly saw the mistake she was about to make.
Somewhat stunned, Luna closed the wardrobe, took a step back, and then tried to process exactly what had just happened. She couldn't. Confusion settled in and she wondered just what it was that she was thinking, coming here to arm herself. There were times when she could not understand herself, and this was one of them. What motivated her to such rash action?
"I think I'm getting better," she said to herself.
Nothing answered--which left her a bit disappointed.
"I should go find Overcast. He's a clever colt, hiding where it is difficult to use divination to determine his location. So begins the search. Hide and go seek!"
It was dark and cobwebby down here. Which didn't bother Luna in the slightest--she rather liked the atmospheric ambiance of cobwebs--but this would be spooky to most foals and even quite a few adults. The service tunnels, though intended for the staff and the groundskeepers, didn't see much use it seemed. Looking down, Luna could see that the floor was a bit dusty. When she didn't see any tracks, she scowled. She expected to see something, at least, but there was nothing.
She had never been down here. After all, what business did a Princess of Equestria have prowling the pathways intended for the help? To make matters worse, the ceiling was low--too low--and she had to keep her head ducked to prevent her horn from scraping. A fat spider nonchalantly strolled past and she watched as it went off to do its spider errands. Perhaps it was out for a bit of shopping or maybe sought out a somewhat more upscale neighborhood, a place more suitable to raise a brood of spiderlings.
Overcast was somewhere... somewhere below her. How far was unknown. His exact location? Unknown. The way down? Unknown. It occurred to Luna that Overcast's rapscallionry knew no bounds and there was no telling what deviousness he got up to in whatever dark places he secured himself away in. But... down here in the depths, he couldn't listen. He couldn't eavesdrop. So if he came down here, it was obviously to seek out some quiet. A place where the careless words of others could not trouble him.
He was a little dark dweller.
There were no lights down here, but there were enchanted bejeweled sconces that could be lit as one passed. Just a faint touch of magic, any magic, and the sconces would glow for a time. Only a unicorn could navigate these passages with ease; an earth pony or a pegasus would have to bring their own lantern. All of the sconces were dark though--which meant that Overcast did not light them, no doubt so he couldn't be tracked as easily.
She began her way down the hall, took maybe a dozen steps, and then stopped when she came to a five-way intersection. There was a small alcove, something just big enough to turn a cart or a trolley around, and a wooden bench against the wall. A nice little spot to rest one's hooves, down here in the tenebrous depths beneath the school. Of the five options, she could rule out one--the one she'd just traversed. That left four. Try as she might, she could not get a good read on Overcast's location and this frustrated her a great deal.
Just what sort of fool built a maze of passageways beneath a school?
Luna suspected that her sister was that fool.
The fact that Overcast was below her indicated that there were layers to this maze. She would have to find some stairs, or more likely a ramp. A way down would have to be found. Perhaps several ways down, because she had no idea how far down Overcast might be. Why the school needed tunnels down this deep baffled Luna--briefly--but then she thought of invading armies, flights of rampaging dragons, and other such threats. Which made her hate the maze all the more, because now it had purpose.
"Oh, bother and blast!" she swore and the sound of her voice echoed off of the ancient stone blocks.
Turning about, Luna chose the most sinister path, which is to say she went left.
After some time wandering around in the dark, Luna found herself at a lift. She had found herself at several lifts; cogwheel contraptions that were inelegant but suitable for lifting or lowering a cart or trolley. All the other lifts she'd encountered went up to the school above. This lift, the one she stood on at the moment, not only went up, but it also went down. Which meant that she could gain access to whatever was below her in the delightful dungeons below the school.
This lift felt as though it had to be near the center of the school, the very heart of it, and she could sense the oppressive weight and mass above her. At any second, it could crumble--it could give away in a spectacular instant of disaster--and she would be buried alive in the school's endless maze of innards. The real tragedy of course was that the ancient stone would hold. It was unyielding in the way that stone was and the school was in no danger of crumbling any time soon. Life would go on and classes would be called to session with the tolling of a bell.
Down here in the bowels of the school, Luna had found storerooms full of things that made the school what it was. She found Hearth's Warming decorations aplenty. There were gaudy things for Hearts & Hooves Day. All manner of knick-knacks for dances, balls, and galas. Quite by accident, Luna had found a location that she rather liked, and she intended to return when given the chance. Ponies threw away the things that made them happy; they cast them into dark and forgot about them when they were no longer of any use, only to return and find them when they were in need of them once more.
Luna sympathised with all things cast into the dark and forgotten.
Overcast was down here somewhere. One more thing carelessly thrown away and left forgotten amongst the other detritus. That he knew about this place and was familiar with it spoke volumes about him. A little conflicted, or perhaps a whole lot conflicted, Luna stood on the lift and thought about life. Like Overcast, she was down here too, among the temporary things not good enough for permanence. A consolatory melancholy overtook her; it was something warm and familiar, a thing she could not bear to part with because it was comforting in some confusing way that made no sense.
Throwing the lever, Luna resigned herself to the darkness below.
From the lift landing, there was only one passage, which sloped downwards. The walls were irregular and lumpy; no stone blocks, just shaped earth. It was cold down here and so very dark. There were no sconces, no light sources, so the darkness ruled supreme. Luna's horn lit the way, not that she needed it. She could see just fine even down here where no natural light existed.
The fact that Overcast braved these depths said much about his character.
She had no choice but to walk with her head bowed because of the low irregular ceiling. The walls were exactly as wide as the many carts and trolleys found around the school, and not an inch wider. While the incline would be taxing, it was not oppressive nor was it dangerous. Anypony that came down here for whatever reason would be safe enough when moving goods.
What was this place so far beneath the school and why did it exist?
Surely, it had a purpose; Celestia, while somewhat silly, was practical enough. All of this difficult construction required a reason to exist. While Luna was very much enamoured with the idea of a vast, sprawling dungeon beneath the school--she was the Princess of Detention after all--the sheer impracticality of it all suggested it had to be something else. Somewhere in the blackness up ahead Overcast would be found. She could feel him now. He was a king in these stygian pits and she was little more than a guest, or a tourist.
With every step taken, her respect for the little colt grew.
Double doors made of ancient wood blocked her way. These doors were too large, too impractical. The passage leading to them was too small, too narrow. So having such large doors was foolish in the extreme. Yet, the doors existed. More than three times as tall as Luna herself was. A high sloping arch gave them beautiful form. There was an alcove here best left in the dark, because to turn on the light was to know horror. The walls here were elaborately sculpted from floor to ceiling with a countless number of pony skeletons. Skulls winked and grinned in the faint light cast from Luna's horn.
Was this an ossuary?
A crypt?
Catacombs?
A mystery.
Luna could sense Celestia's magic here; she had shaped the stone. The skeletons were her work. Little Miss Sunshine had a thing for the grotesque, the morbid, and the macabre, but she hid it away where few might find it. What the little ponies failed to realise was that Celestia was the Sun. While a dawn might be a new beginning, a setting sun was the end. Celestia was bound to cycles, one of which was life. Which began--and ended. Few knew that Celestia was Death Incarnate.
And for whatever reason, the little ponies were scared of Luna.
Ignorant, foolish little creatures, the lot of them.
How had Overcast ventured past these doors? To come upon this place and to see it in all of its grisly glory; how had he not run off screaming? How had he not died of fright? For that matter, how did the school staff come down here? Surely they came down here. There was a lift and everything. This place served a purpose. But to come out of the narrow passage and to see this place surely was a shock to the senses.
A closer inspection revealed more detail. The skeletons were going through the motions of life. Some were gathered around a small cosy table for tea. Others danced together. One scene depicted a skeletal teacher teaching a group of skeletal foals, pointing to a skeleton drawn on a blackboard. A skeletal mother cradled her skeletal newborn. Near to that one, a skeletal pegasus bowed their head next to a coffin, which contained a skeletal earth pony laid to rest.
Yes, this was most definitely Celestia's work; it bore her signature upon every bony inch.
"Sister, why would you create such a place beneath your school?"
The answer, Luna knew, was beyond the doors, which she moved to open.
Beyond the door was an alcove and in the middle of this entryway was Celestia's skeleton. Luna knew it well. So well, in fact, that she was relieved to see it. These bones were conspicuously absent from the modern era. Gone. Nowhere to be found. Once, a long time ago, this skeletal representation of Celestia could be seen everywhere. A reminder of the end. The Great Harvester. Farmers would leave gifts of grain near the base of these sculptures.
The skeletal alicorn seemed to beckon with her bony wing, as if inviting Luna to come in.
What was this doing down here?
This depiction of Celestia was dead. Which was to say that the depiction of a dead Celestia had fallen out of favour. But for Luna, who stood there staring, this was reassuring. Comforting. It was something from the past that had retreated from the memory of many. Little ponies did not like grim reminders of their inevitable demise no more so than they liked having nightmares. Reaching out with one wing, Luna lovingly brushed some dust from her sister's bony muzzle.
It felt very much like coming home after a long absence. Only this wasn't home. She didn't know what this place was. While some might consider it a place of nightmarish horror, Luna found it a peaceful place of refuge--and so too did Overcast if he came here to seclude himself away from the world. Which meant that he had to be aware of a forgotten aspect of Celestia.
With one final loving touch of the stone bones of her sister, Luna moved past so that she might see what awaited beyond. There were lights up ahead, faint voices, there was life down here in this dark sanctum. She heard laughter as she approached the arch. Laughter seemed out of place, but it was a welcome sound. A warm sound that drove the chill from Luna's ears.
Luna found herself in some sort of library. Or an archive. It was a place that smelt of old paper. This wasn't some musty, damp, mildewy place. It was dry. Cold. A place of storage. Meaningful things were kept here, things with value that rot and decay could not be allowed to touch. What appeared to be endless rows of shelves could be seen and darkness consumed most of them. There was an island of light around a nearby table, and around this table were four foals that Luna was extremely happy to see.
They were no worse for wear, the four of them. There were bottles of soda pop on the table, snacks, bookbags, and what appeared to be some sort of game of some kind. Luna saw a map of some sort, paper dolls, and various types of dice. The four had their horns lit and this light held back the inky nothingness. Luna stared at them and the four stared right back at her.
"Welcome to the Dead Archives," Overcast said with a wave of his foreleg.
"What is this place?" asked Luna.
"School records are kept here," Almanac said before Overcast had a chance to respond. "But not the living. The records of every teacher and student are brought here after death and preserved for prosperity. It's neat! After I die, my permanent record will be brought here and kept in perpetuity. I'll be remembered! All my accomplishments, all of my failures, everything will be kept."
"All my detentions," muttered Overcast.
"Our lives will be noted," Top Notch said, "and these are records of how Princess Celestia's students changed the world. The progress we've brought about. All the good things we do. Stuff we've invented. How we've advanced society. This is all a testament to progress. Overcast seems to know a lot about it. He had a whole speech prepared when we arrived."
"And no matter what anypony tells you, I most certainly did not widdle when I saw the spooky skeleton in the entryway," Almanac said to Luna. "Overcast says that's Princess Celestia. Is that true? Is that really her? Why would Princess Celestia be a skeleton? How come this is the first time I've heard about this?"
Overwhelmed somewhat, Luna did manage to say, "It is."
"I told you so," Overcast said to his friends. "And there is no evidence of widdle. Not at all. Not a drop."
"Yeah"--Almanac bowed her head a bit--"not a drop."
"This place is fantastic," Wednesday said. "But I do worry what will happen if my light fizzles out. I mean, it is dark down here. I'm just a bit terrified that I'll get lost and won't be able to find my way out... which is a bit silly, considering that Overcast comes down here all the time and he's, well, I don't want to say that Overcast is fine, because he's not. He's not fine at all. But he hasn't vanished and become a missing pony. I'm very, very worried though about the lights going out."
"The creaking of your leg braces in the darkness will surely attract the attention of the resident grue--"
"Shut it, Overcast! You promised! No scary stuff! Keep your promise!"
Scolded, and rightfully so, Overcast sighed. "Very well. Sorry, Whinny."
"Grues aren't real," Almanac said to Wednesday. "I've never read a credible mention of them, so they cannot possibly be real. No grues. None."
Saying nothing, Luna wondered what the grues lurking in the dark thought of this information.
She moved closer to the table so that she might have a better look, Curious about whatever it was that the four were doing. A game of some sort. These were mindful foals; while the space was occupied, a huge mess had not been made. Then again, Overcast came here regularly, and he no-doubt cleaned up after himself. She wondered how he occupied himself down here in the dark, cut off from his eavesdropping. Study perhaps. No distractions. He seemed to be that sort.
"What are you doing?" asked Luna.
"We're playing Ogres & Oubliettes!" was Almanac's excited squeak of response.
"Overcast was going to teach us magic," Top Notch said to Luna. "But Alma, she kept all this stuff in her bag. No friends. None. At all. But she kept everything in her bag in the off chance she might make friends and then have somepony to play with. She made a sad face. How could we say no? Felt a bit... heartless, saying no."
"Ogres & Oubliettes?" Standing right next to the table now, Luna looked down at the game.
"She had everything needed for a quick session," Wednesday said. "A mini-manual, a deck full of monster cards, the cardboard figures, dice, and some pre-made character sheets. It wasn't hard to start. At all. I'm playing a bard."
"And I'm a foul-mouthed barbarian... who sometimes has anger issues and hurls poo." The expression on Top Notch's face as he said these words was one of confused guilt. "Being angry is... rather... cathartic."
"I'm an alchemist," Almanac said to Luna and she drummed her front hooves against the table in her excited state. "I think Overcast is playing himself though. Which isn't very sporting. He's an arcanist and--"
"I am an arcanist," Overcast said, interrupting. "In real life."
Smiling sweetly, Almanac leaned over in Overcast's direction and said, "I think I'm a better caster than you."
"Doubtful," he replied, and then he looked away with an expression of irked annoyance.
"Anything you can do, I can do better--"
"No, you can't."
"--I can do anything better than you."
"Stop that at once!" Luna commanded. "You'll start a musical moment. Just stop."
"Aww... I wanted to sing." Folding her thin forelegs over her barrel, Almanac let out a frustrated huff.
"It's like a contagion," Luna remarked whilst she rolled her eyes. "One little pony starts to sing and then all of you do."
There was a hot snort of contempt from Overcast, but not a word was spoken.
Unfolding her legs, Almanac cast a sly sidelong glance in Overcast's direction--and then in an act of direct targeted defiance, she let rip an even louder snort. Amazingly, no boogers were blasted from her hairy little nostrils and little Almanac preserved her feminine dignity. In response, Overcast's head swiveled around so that he could stare at her with his unswollen eye. Then, very deliberately, with painstaking contemptible slowness, he heaved out a derisive snort--something so perfect that it just had to be practiced in a mirror on a daily basis. Which was a thing that young aristocrats were prone to do when seeing their own reflection just after waking up.
When Almanac drew in a deep breath, Luna said, "Don't you dare start singing."
Everything slipped out in a heated huff with Almanac saying, "Aww, why not?"
"Because, Overcast and I have much to discuss. Which means that the rest of you need to go. It's getting late. Things are safe... enough. Though I daresay that school might be a bit strange in the coming days. If school is even kept in session."
"That sounds serious," Almanac said and her words were spoken on the verge of a sing-song voice.
Now, Luna had the dreadful urge to break out into song and it was all Almanac Avocado's fault. She couldn't talk; because the compulsion to sing was there, she had to almost hold her breath and wait for it to pass. It was every bit as awful as it was annoying and she had no desire whatsoever to perform a concert for the grues lurking where the light ended. The way that Overcast stared at her suggested that he knew of her struggle, and she resented him more than a little for being so perceptive. He would suffer; oh yes, he would be made aware of the length, breadth, and depth of misery.
She very much wanted to tell him that in song.
"I don't want this to end," Almanac said to Luna. "This has been the weirdest best day of my life. Well, second best day of my life. It's tied. It's tied with the day I got accepted into this school." Her face saddened. "It all went downhill from there. But I made friends. My glasses got fixed. I found out there is school intrigue. I got to play Ogres & Oubliettes. And Overcast promised that he'd teach me how to be a unicorn."
Luna was so surprised by this that all thoughts of song fled from her. "He did?"
"Yep. He said that I'd be the most unicorniest unicorn that ever farted glitter!"
"Did he now..." As Luna spoke, Overcast squirmed and then found something fascinating to look at in the darkness beyond the light.
"He did." Oblivious to the silent exchange, Almanac's owlish gaze remained fixated upon Luna.
"He'll be made to keep his word. That's a very important part of being a unicorn." After a deep breath, amusement set in and Luna found it increasingly difficult to keep a straight face. Almanac would be fine. She had a rough go of things, but she would recover. But Overcast couldn't be allowed to poison her mind. Something would have to be done about that, and whatever damage was already done would need to be sorted out.
It would be fine though. Wednesday and Topper would get Overcast sorted out soon enough. Wednesday especially, but Topper was a good enough sort. Luna knew she had to play her part, and that was hard because she didn't know how to begin. Having friends helped. Yes, they were young, but they would grow. In an eyeblink, they would grow. In no time at all, they would be adults. Eventually, she would mourn them. Given enough time, Luna would remember them in ways that distant great-grandfoals would not, for such was the way of things.
But for now, they were young--and were good company.
"Over half of your teachers have vanished and are nowhere to be found."
"Say again?" Blinking, the light of his horn flickering somewhat, Top Notch shook his head. "Excuse me, but would you mind repeating that?"
"About half of the teachers have vanished," Luna said. "Overcast, you were somewhat correct. Something is off with the teachers. It wasn't always this way. Discord escaped recently and he's probably to blame. Some type of hex or maybe a curse on the school. An attempt to damage Equestria's future. Or maybe just a petty attack to hurt my sister. All of this will be investigated, of course. My sister, Celestia, said that the teachers grew cold and strange to her over time.
"The guard went to collect Mister Burr, but he was gone. More than that, his home was searched, and the guard found that nopony has lived there for months. The homes of the other teachers are similarly deserted." Then, as an afterthought, she added, "I am trusting you with this information. Please, keep it to yourselves."
"How do that many ponies just vanish? And why would they stop living at home?" Perplexed, Wednesday scowled and shook her head. "Where else would they be living?"
"The most likely answer," Overcast said whilst rubbing his two front hooves together, "is that they are underground somewhere. I mean, if they are anywhere at all. I come down here to hide and to give my mind a rest. If a pony does not wish to be found, dozens of yards of solid rock will hide them. This"--he gestured all around him--"is my sanctum. But probably not for much longer, considering that I've been caught."
Realising that she had a bargaining chip, Luna made a mental note.
"Why does rock do that though?" asked Top Notch.
"Magic requires some kind of connection between the two points," Overcast replied. "It's like how the glass interfered with my teleportation of frogs into the water coolers. The line of sight became impeded. A simple wall can be enough to block some magic, but if you can perceive beyond the wall, then your magic can reach beyond it as well. I suspect that, given enough time, I'll be able to zap something by using my remote listening to get a lock on it. Won't need to see it."
Almanac nodded to show she understood. "Sort of like how you were able to get around that bag over your head. But why though? I mean, why learn all of this?"
"Because"--the colt paused, either for dramatic effect or to collect his thoughts--"we live in dangerous times. Because I don't want to ever get into a fair fight. Because, I crave power and understanding. Because I want to understand the how and why of magic, and not just cast spells. Any fool can cast a spell, but to understand that spell, to know how and why it works... that is why I do what I do. I don't have a talent for magic. I don't even have my mark. So I have to work for every bit of understanding that I have. It doesn't come to me naturally. But... it is what I crave more than anything else."
"You know, Overcast, that might just be the most honest thing you've ever said. Or perhaps it would be better to say the most revealing."
The young colt peered at Wednesday, but did not respond.
"I feel the same way about my trumpet," she said to him. "Sincerely, I do. It started to consume my life there for a time. But I might've just been escaping. I want to understand music. Not just make music, I want to know why it does what it does. Why it makes ponies feel things. Why some notes make a pony feel blue, while a different collection of notes makes them feel happy. I want to understand why music causes feeling and emotion."
"Then you are not stupid," Overcast said in return.
"That's a bit rude, don't you think? I mean, I'm flattered to hear you say that, but I'm also bothered by how you think so little of others."
He shrugged, but had nothing to say.
"I probably should get going," Top Notch said and he cast a regretful glance around him. "It's probably later than I realise, and I don't live here at the school. I must get home, otherwise, my parents will worry."
"Me too." Sighing, Almanac shook her head and then her lower lip protruded.
"Topper..."
"Yes, Princess Luna?" He peered up at her, his eyes bright with the need to please.
"Please, walk Miss Avocado home and see to her safety. Can you do that for me?"
"Yes, of course I can, Princess Luna!"
"Now, can you find your way out of here?" asked Luna.
"I have a map," Almanac said to Luna and she flashed a toothy grin.
"Of course you do." A complete lack of surprise showed on Luna's amused face.
"You should show Princess Luna your map." Reaching over, Wednesday prodded Almanac with her hoof. "Show her. Go on."
"Um, I don't want to be boastful."
"Having a superiour talent or skill does not make one boastful."
Throwing an imperious stare across the table, Wednesday glared daggers at the smug little unicorn colt. "Shut it, Overcast."
Moving closer, Luna asked, "May I please see your map?"
In response, little Almanac pulled out a sheet of paper and held it in a glittering dweomer of telekinesis. On the paper was strange markings that Luna did not recognise, but they had a wibble of magic about them. Concentrating, Almanac's tongue poked out of the corner of her mouth, and after a few seconds, she touched the sheet of paper to her horn. There was a rustling sound, the crinkle-crackle of paper, and then it came to life.
As Luna stood watching, the markings on the paper shifted, moved, and then jumped off of the page. At first it was as if penciled lines just appeared, but then the spaces between the lines began to fill in with slightly less than real paper. It was semi-transparent, more illusion than anything else, and a three dimensional projection constructed itself. Luna could quite clearly see the passages, the tunnels, the lifts, everything. A three dimensional map was quite a trick, and Luna was impressed by what she saw.
"This is what got me into this school for gifted unicorns," Almanac said, almost whispering these words to Luna. "I'm not better than anypony else. I've just got a way with magic. Princess Celestia said she's never seen anything like it in all of her days. And then I asked her how many days she had and my mother almost fainted. Whoops."
When Almanac pulled the paper away from her horn, the projected image persisted. She smiled down at her creation with wide, proud eyes. She turned it this-a-way, and that-a-way, all so Luna could have a better look at it from every possible angle. It was wondrous magic, rare, unique, and precious. Just like her sister, Luna had never seen anything quite like this, and had no frame of reference for what to call it. Illusionary cartography?
"What's in my head goes onto the paper," Almanac explained without actually explaining much of anything. "Not even Princess Celestia knows how it works. But I'm supposed to figure it out before I graduate."
That was a daunting project and Luna regretted that she did not have the time to discuss it. There was much to do and she very much wanted to speak with Overcast. Alone. As she stood there watching, the magic faded away, becoming a little less real with each passing second, until it was nothing at all. The pencil lines were the last things to fade away and Almanac was left holding a sheet of paper with strange markings on it. Luna realised that she was looking at raw magic glyphs, random occurrences that sometimes happened, such as when magically charged lightning struck a stone and left behind curious markings.
She would have to have a talk with Almanac later.
"Come on," said Luna, and she gestured with both wings. "Clean up. Leave nothing behind. Almanac, when there is time, you and I shall discuss at length your map and perhaps we can all work together to sort out its workings."
"Really? All of us?" Almanac practically beamed. "Like, friends working together to solve a mystery?" Her voice changed, becoming a mock-baritone and her eyebrows furrowed in an evil way. "And I would have gotten away with it, too, if it wasn't for you meddlesome foals!"
Rather confused, Wednesday reacted, asking, "What?"
"I read a lot of mystery books," Almanac said. "A whole lotta murder-mystery books."
"And do you learn anything from those?" asked Top Notch. "My mom, she says I should only read books I can learn from."
"I've learnt how to hide a body," Almanac replied.
"Say, that's useful, don't you--"
"Overcast!" both Wednesday and Luna said together in unison.
"Sometimes the talent picks the pony," he said as he crouched into a defensive position. "What do you think a mark for hiding bodies might look like?"
"Something lumpy rolled up in a rug or maybe--"
"Alma... we want to discourage Overcast's villainy."
"Maybe you, Whinny," Almanac replied. "But if he becomes a villain, I'll have a real-life murder-mystery to solve and that'd be absolutely capital."
"Please"--gesturing with her wings once more, Luna tried to redirect the foals' attention to a more pressing issue--"clean up after yourselves."
"Wait." Raising a hoof, Overcast repeated himself. "Wait. If I became a villain... a murdering villain as you're suggesting, you'd hunt me down and bring me to justice?"
Almanac paused, thoughtful, and then she became quite animated. "As foals, they were friends. Companions. Besties. But he turned to evil. And she turned to fudge sundaes which made her bottom big, just as her mother said they would. When he did the unthinkable, she did the only thing that could be done: she hunted down her former friend, who somehow always stayed one step ahead of her. Drama! Intrigue! Sexual tension! Betrayal--"
"Wait, sexual tension?"
"I have no idea what it is, but I've read it sells books," Almanac said to Overcast. "Seems smart to include it."
"Well, if I am going to have a successful turn to villainy, somepony is going to have an accident and fall down some stairs--"
"Overcast!" Wednesday hollered, and this seemed to be her new hobby, considering the passion poured into her outburst.
But Almanac responded well; she turned to Overcast, mouth opened, eyes wide, and she dramatically reacted to his villainous treachery with a melodramatic gasp of surprise. "The young ingenue, caught completely unawares, fell down the stairs but was saved by her plush bottom, which was entirely too big already, big enough to be a target for teasing. Saved by her plump rump, the young ingenue had to learn to love herself. All of herself. Even the parts she wasn't fond of."
Then, before anypony could respond, in a moment of bashful sincerity, Almanac leaned close to Overcast and said, "Thanks for playing along. Nopony really does that. They just think I'm weird. You're very sweet. Thank you."
His face darkened a bit, his ears pinned back, and Overcast replied, "Don't mention it."
"Also"--still she whispered, and her eyes gleamed with a mischievous light--"yes I caa-aa-aan."
"No singing!" Luna snapped. "Just cleaning! Otherwise, we'll be here all night!"
"Aw!" Huffing, Almanac fell over onto her back and then flailing her limbs about, she laid there. "Singing is all I have. It's free and doesn't cost anything. Just... kill me now. Wrap me up in a nice rug, if one can be spared, and dump me into a river someplace."
"What a waste of a perfectly good rug," Overcast remarked.
"I'm very confused right now and I don't know who to scold," Wednesday confessed. As she spoke, she carefully packed up the various paper and cardboard bits of the Ogres & Oubliettes game strewn across the table. "If I didn't know better, I'd say I was having a middle-sister moment."
Feeling bad, and perhaps a little guilty, Luna lifted Almanac from the floor. She righted the filly, got her legs beneath her, and made certain that the foal had her balance before letting go. Almanac was the odd one of this group in more ways than one. Still of single-digit age, while the rest of the group were called 'tweens' in the modern parlance. Not quite teenagers, but neither were they young foals. That awkward place in between. But Almanac had to be the most awkward of all, because it was clear that she didn't quite belong to either age group. She was far too mature for her younger peers, but not quite old enough to fit in elsewhere.
It had to be hard on her.
And that was just the surface stuff. Down deeper, there were other issues, other troubles, other difficulties that contributed and made her life complicated. Being poor in Canterlot was practically a crime, or at least treated as one by the well-to-do. The school had callous social cliques, from the sounds of things, and when Luna turned a critical eye upon Almanac, she could see all of the symptoms of crippling loneliness--including the tremendous effort made to hide it.
"This parting is only temporary, I assure you. Overcast and I have much to discuss about his future. I am sorry that playtime came in such a small portion, and I will do whatever I can to make it up to you. This I promise."
"I'm sorry about saying what I did about beanstalks," Almanac said to Luna. "You're really nice. Really, really nice. Even if you won't let me sing. My parents aren't going to believe me when I tell them about everything that's happened today. They'll think I'm telling stories again." She blinked several times, pawed the ground with her small hooves, and scooted closer to Luna.
"Do you think you could do me a solid and stop by for din-din sometime and make sure my parents know I'm not telling stories? That all of this is not my overactive imagination? That'd be great if you could. But if you can't, I understand."
"We shall schedule a time," Luna replied. "But for now, everything must be cleaned up and we must bid each other farewell."
Barrel hitching, Almanac gasped a few times before she could say, "Why is this so hard?" Just before the first tear could fall, her glasses fogged over from her panting and heavy breathing. "I'm so afraid right now."
Reaching down, Luna placed a wing upon Almanac's neck, and then in silence, she tried to console the distraught filly. For some unknown reason, Luna thought of Twilight Sparkle, and how difficult it was to say goodnight after having such a lovely time together. The fear of everything ending, never to begin again. Stricken in a curious way, Luna felt her emotions threatening to overwhelm her with every sniffle that came from Almanac's twitching, somewhat snotty nose.
"And now I am gonna lose my friends because I'm acting like a baby!"
Quite suddenly, Overcast was there, right beside Luna and Almanac. She hadn't heard him approach; she had completely failed to notice that he'd moved from his spot. He moved with far too much quiet in a manner far too familiar. Then, Wednesday came into focus just behind him, her leg braces creaking and squeaking with her every movement. Just behind Wednesday was Top Notch, and when he bumped into her, there was a clatter of metal from her leg braces.
"Sorry, Whinny."
"Don't worry about it, Topper. I like it when you touch me."
"I meant what I said," Overcast said to Almanac. "I'll teach you unicorn stuff. We all will. In spite of myself, I've learned something from all of this. Not sure what it is just yet, but I'll sort it out with time. I wish that we'd met sooner and under better circumstances. You've found me during a really weird moment in my life."
Sniffling, almost snotting, Almanac asked, "You don't think I'm a crybaby spaz?"
Overcast's response was one of considerable kindness: "No."
"I'm so insecure and thin-skinned." These words came out in something between a whisper and a murmur, and little Almanac closed her eyes whilst she sniffled. "All my emotions get the best of me at the worst moments. It's so embarrassing. I'm such a dork."
A massive snot bubble emerged from Almanac's nose, expanded greatly, and then burst in the way that all bubbles do, leaving behind droplets on her spectacles. She sighed, shook her head, and then squeaked when Overcast pulled her glasses off. In silence, he cleaned them for her, and when he was done, he slipped them back onto her face without stabbing her in the eye, or any other unfortunate mishap that would have ruined the moment.
Then, leaning in so close that his lips almost touched Almanac's ear, he whispered to her, "No, you can't, can't, can't..."
She sobbed; just once--a heart rending sound--and then responded in such a way that could only be described as being earth ponyish in nature: she glomped Overcast in the most savagely gentle manner possible, a high speed collision of exquisite softness. With her forelegs wrapped around his neck, she clung to him, and together, they waited for the storm to pass.
Standing over the pair, Luna watched them. This made what came next easier, though she could not say how or why. Perhaps because there was still enough of Overcast to save. He was misguided--to the point of brokenness, no less--but parts of him had survived the events that had caused him to wither on the vine. She would trim away the dead things and save whatever was left.
In doing so, Luna knew that she would save herself. |
Lunatic Fringe | The Final Detention | Luna, the Princess of Detention, looked down at young Overcast beside her and thought to herself, You and me and the darkness makes three. It was the sort of statement that one said aloud within their head and heard quite distinctly within the confines of their own ears. A lifetime of detention awaited the young colt, and he would deserve every second of it. Because Luna loved him, she would ensure he would get every second of correction required--but to do that it would mean getting herself sorted out.
And maybe getting a lot of advice from Twilight Sparkle.
"Almanac told me something and I don't... I don't know what to think of it or how to deal with it," Overcast said to Luna.
"What troubles you, Overcast?"
The colt seemed aware of the shift in Luna's tone.
"While we were getting the game set up, Almanac told us that she has no brothers or sisters. After she was born, her parents decided to stop having foals. They wanted to give her the best possible shot in life and they knew that raising a unicorn would be difficult. Her parents wanted to make sure that she had all of their time, might it be needed. They're earth ponies... and they did all of this without really knowing or understanding much about unicorns. I can't... I just can't imagine earth ponies not having a whole herd of foals, because that's kind of what they do and I don't want to sound tribalist but there is truth to what I said. They gave up everything that makes them earth ponies just so that Almanac might have a chance of being a halfway decent unicorn. I can't wrap my head around it."
"Hmm," Luna hmmed, because it seemed that a good hmm was in order.
"I guess that sometimes, you give up whatever it is that makes you a pony, or at least stand out as a pony, so that you might be a better parent... I'm making a mess of this and the words came out all wrong."
"The fact that you think about such things at all says much about you."
"I can't stop thinking about things and that's my problem," he said to her.
"Well, I am about to give you a surplus of new things to think about," she said to him in return.
"I want to be wrong about them," Overcast said. "But I've seen too much evidence to the contrary. Nothing survives life."
Something was different. Off somehow. This wasn't just base melodrama. There was too much pain in these words. Overcast had been exposed to all of the wrong things at the wrong time and whatever sunny outlook he might have had at one time was now, well, very much his namesake. Overcast. He stepped away from her, tilted his head, and had a look around.
Luna too, allowed herself to take in the spectacle of this place.
"Overcast, if you don't mind me asking, how did you know that was my sister, Celestia, in the entryway?"
"You wouldn't believe me if I told you," he replied.
"Try me. Did you break into some repository of knowledge to find out?"
"No, nothing like that." He sighed, shook his head, and sidestepped away. "When I try to tell adults certain things, they don't believe me. Or they don't listen. So there's no point in trying to explain myself."
"Well, you and I, we're going to ignore all of that. I want you to trust me, and I would like to trust you. You know, of course, that I have ways of knowing if you lie to me. So, let us establish ourselves. Tell me, how did you know that was Celestia? That knowledge has passed from this world. I want to believe that it was just a guess, but I don't think that's the case. You're too perceptive for base guesses."
"I just knew," he said. "When I first found my way down here, I just knew. When I saw the statue... I sensed magic in it... when I tried to connect to the magic, because I wanted to know what it was... something happened. I saw the statue, but it had flesh. It was Princess Celestia. There was a jolt... that weird sensation when lightning hits the lightning rod and the air is charged. I felt... something. It gave me a headache. Then all the skeletons on the wall moved. I saw them looking at me. Heads moved. They did, I swear it. I wasn't imagining it. I couldn't move for a while... I don't know how long. Thought I was going to die down here. But then I could move again, and I, well, I don't know how I knew, but I knew for certain I was welcome here. I was allowed to pass. So I did. And I've been coming down here ever since."
"Peculiar."
"Do you believe me?" he asked in a worried way.
"I do," she replied in the most reassuring manner that she could muster. She sensed no deception in his words, no exaggeration. If anything, there was more to it, and he was withholding something. What was unknown. Something had happened. She looked down at him so that she might study him, and wondered what else he had to tell her about this curious incident.
"I know secrets," he whispered. "Things I shouldn't know. They're just... in my head. There's things I know that there are no explanations for. I shouldn't know them."
"Since we're being honest with one another, there is something I want to know."
"And that is?"
"How did you get into advanced matter manipulation classes?"
He did not answer; in fact, he backed away.
"See, that doesn't add up. You're too young. Something is amiss." As he retreated, she followed, and she lowered her head down so that she might look him in the eye. "What are you hiding, Overcast?"
"None of your beeswax!" he said as she advanced.
"Oh, but it is. And we're going to sort things out, Overcast. I have plans for you, but first, we need to clear the air and be rid of any lingering dishonesty. This is your chance to come clean."
"If I tell you, you'll take away everything I've worked so hard for. So, no!"
It was the wrong answer; Luna carefully considered her next move. While she wanted to be Overcast's friend, his mentor, he wasn't being cooperative. Since it was unlikely that he could be intimidated, she would have to find some means of coercion. There was so much to say and this wasn't a great start to everything. She would have to improvise and she wished that she'd planned this better.
"Am I to take that as an admission of guilt?" she asked.
He froze. His mouth opened, closed, opened again, and his teeth clicked faintly when his mouth closed for a second time. She saw panic in his eyes, and fear as well. But not fear of her, no. He was not afraid of her, which made things difficult. Fear made ponies submissive and it was useful, on occasion. Now, Luna had a pony that was completely unafraid of her and she didn't know what to do with him.
"Why does it matter?" he asked. "I can do the work and I have a passing grade."
"It matters because you are mine," she said. "I am saving you from yourself. Things change. Starting now. These are the first moments of your reformation. My sister demands that you be made a prefect... a praepostor and you--"
"I'll not be a snitch!"
"That's funny," Luna deadpanned. "You think you have a choice."
"You can't make me--"
"But I can," she said as she loomed large over him. "You have no free agency but what I give you. You are a foal. I am an adult. Beyond that, I am responsible for your care and well-being. I too, know secrets, and I know for certain that you've begun to dabble in the dark arts. You've started down a path from which few return, and those that do, they do not return whole of mind nor body. This ends! Now. You can either choose to cooperate, or you will be made to cooperate. Either way, you will cooperate. The freedom of choice will be returned to you at such a time when you are deserving."
"So you'll just force me to spill my guts?" he asked.
"Would you like a demonstration?"
"Do it," he said to her. "Just do it. I dare you. Do it more than once and I'll figure out how you do it, and I'll do it to others. I'll make you sorry!"
Luna experienced the curious sensation of infuriated adoration for the young colt. He was bold. Fearless. He would make a fine servant--but first he would have to be made to serve. The real trick was doing so without breaking him, because she valued his fiery vim. In this moment, they understood one another. At least, Luna believed this. Overcast had to know he couldn't win, but coming along quietly just wasn't in his nature.
It was the exact reason why the guard had to hammer him down.
"What happened to the little colt that worshiped my shadow?" she asked.
"You got bossy," he replied. "So go get stuffed!"
"I suppose my only recourse is to remove you from your class and--"
"Don't do that!" He backed away, hesitated, and then moved closer. "If I tell the truth, can I stay? I can do the work. I can!"
Saying nothing, offering nothing, Luna waited.
"I cheated my way into the classes," he confessed.
"I am disappointed," she replied. "If only you had made it in on your own merits, I might have been impressed."
"My own merits..." He sucked in a deep breath. "My own merits..." Again, a deep breath and his unswollen eye began twitching as a sort of apoplectic rage overtook him. "Listen here, you big dumb spook! You have no idea what I went through to get into those classes! I belong there!" His shouted words echoed through the archives, no doubt disturbing the lurking grues.
"It took me over a year to get in... I had to break into the school records office and the registry office! Every month they change their security! Multiple layers of security! I had to probe without getting caught and learn all kinds of spellcraft to break in. It took me months just to be able to get through the doors to those offices, and even longer to learn how to forge the records! I couldn't afford to make even a single mistake, because it would mean getting caught! So everything had to be perfect!
"And when I changed my classes, nopony suspected a thing! Because it's impossible to do what I did! Nopony questioned it! No one! Because of the sheer impossibility of doing what I did, my teachers just assumed I belonged in my classes! By my own merits! Because I am gifted! They're so smug and secure with their perfect security system that none of them suspected a thing! I earned my way into my classes! I made my own test!"
She watched as the rage bubbled through him, caused his muscles to twitch, and made his face contort in unpleasant ways. His mane grew damp and a faint sheen of perspiration moistened his brows. When he started to chew his lip, she wanted to make him stop--but she failed to act because she wasn't sure what to do next. A part of her wanted to praise him for being clever, and she hated that part of herself. What he needed was a right good scolding, but she just couldn't bring herself to do that.
Conflicted, torn between her own inner light and darkness, Luna struggled to conclude what was right or wrong.
Not only was she failing herself at this moment, but Overcast as well.
"It was the most difficult thing I've ever done," he said, and this time his words were a hoarse whisper. "I couldn't make mistakes. It would have been the end of my academic career. Every month, the security would change and I would have to start anew. I would only get so far until I encountered something new and unfamiliar to me, and then I would be forced to retreat so I could learn how to deal with it. And this happened over and over and over and over until I thought I would go mad and I almost gave up because it was more trouble than it was worth. But I kept at it... I don't know why I did. It was the only thing that made sense in my life at the time. During all of this, I learned more about magic than I had the entire time I was in school. When I finally defeated the system, I very much felt as though I deserved the reward I gave myself."
At a loss for words, Luna could only stare. If Celestia knew about this, what might she say? What might she do? Little Overcast had schooled himself in the dastardly arts. He wasn't becoming a villain, no... he was a villain. Perhaps Celestia had some inkling of all of this, because she didn't want Overcast expelled. It was infuriating and frustrating, because Celestia never revealed just how much she knew; she maintained a reputation of mystical all-knowingness that benefited her in countless ways.
When Luna flaunted her mystical reputation--she was the Dreamwalker after all--the little ponies all got scared. But when Celestia did her thing, it was celebrated as a central part of her character. Life just wasn't fair, not at all, not even a little, not even in the slightest. Overcast's rage had boiled over like a pot left on the hob for far too long, and now it appeared as though he might start crying. Very much against her will and her better judgment, Luna pitied him and sympathised with his pain.
Which felt dangerous, but she couldn't harden her heart enough to stop.
"The powerful are owed power," the colt said in an almost inaudible whisper. "What is not given to us freely, we will take by force. We have a right to whatever we can take. If the weak cannot defend it, it is ours."
"Do you really believe that, Overcast?"
"With all my heart."
Saddened, Luna knew this lesson would be painful.
"Then it behooves me to show you the folly of your philosophy," she said to him. "You will be made to serve me. You are too weak to resist me. As a being of immense power, I have a right to whatever I can take. You will be made to serve, to bow, to scrape, to grovel, to kneel. To resist me is to know unending sorrow for the rest of your days."
He stared at her without fear.
"Is that what you want, Overcast? An affirmation of your beliefs? Do you wish for me to prove you right?"
The colt was little more than a statue now and he made no effort to respond.
"Serve me willingly, and you will become a trusted servant. In time, you will become my ears, and perhaps my eyes as well. Your gifts will be put to good use. You will improve the school. I will show you how to become the change you wish to see in the world. Refuse me at your own peril, but know this: no matter how you answer, you will be made to serve."
"Am I to be your apprentice?" he asked.
Luna laughed; terrific peals of it came booming out of her and echoed in the surrounding darkness. It was the very essence of mania, of lunacy. She let go without an iota of restraint. Terrible things that lurked beyond the light joined in and mad cackling could be heard from all around. If Overcast was afraid, he showed no sign; he was still a statue.
Wiping tears from her eyes with her wings, Luna shook her head. "You have not earned such privilege. You are not being rewarded, young one, no. You are being preserved. Saved from yourself and your folly. In time, you might earn better standing, but not with cheating. Rewards come with doing right."
"And if I quit school?" he asked.
"That is not a choice available to you," she replied.
"So what if I make it so that you have no choice but to toss me out?"
"You will be made to obey one way or another. To resist is to know futility."
"But... if I agree and cooperate... I'll get something in return."
Still wiping her eyes, Luna did not respond but left the colt wondering about the outcome.
"Surely you must know that if you force me, I'll only grow to hate you. And you... you are sensitive to being hated. You might deny it, but I know for certain that it would hurt you. And if I am made to serve, then I shall spend the rest of my life hurting you. That's not much, but it is some small satisfaction. I will spend the rest of my days reminding you how much you are feared and hated and not trusted. Eventually, my words will get under your skin."
"You assume of course that I will let you keep your tongue."
"You're bluffing. If you tore out my tongue, that would hurt your public standing."
"A silence spell works wonders," she responded.
When Overcast tried to reply, his mouth moved but no words came out. Luna left him this way so that he could come to fully appreciate and have a bit of gratitude for his own voice--but too late, she realised that he might very well figure out how to cast this spell himself. She may well have hoisted herself by her own petard. This was a bridge that would have to be crossed later, and possibly burnt down.
Unable to speak, Overcast stuck out the entire length of his tongue.
"You can't win," she said to him. "Your bargaining posture is highly dubious."
He stared up at her with mute contempt.
"You are young and foolish. It is not my desire to crush you down, but to lift you up, Overcast. But things must change. You must change. You tread upon a dangerous path. There is nothing worthwhile to be found in the darkness, I assure you. I don't want you to hate me. I do not wish to strip you of your will. I want you to grow, to mature, to know love, happiness, warmth, and light. If you bend your knee now and serve me, faithfully and without reservation, in time, you will be rewarded with trust. And perhaps, with faithful service, even a little bit of power. But a choice must be made. Change must happen. Do you wish to answer?"
She relaxed her influence over him and he did not respond. Not right away. What he did do was stare at her with undisguised loathing and contempt. Few had the courage to look at Luna in such a way, and fewer still would survive her savage reciprocation. She showed incredible mercy in allowing this continued insolence, because she knew that Overcast was having a rough day. A hard time. He was having a difficult go at things. But, at some point, her patience would be spent.
"Be my ears. Help me to fix the school. Alert me to problems before they fester. Tell me about students deep in the throes of trouble. Help me make things better. Whatever you have planned, you will only make things worse. If we work together, improvements can be made." Then, in a moment of shrewd intuition, she tried a different approach.
"If not for yourself, then for your new friends. Think of Wednesday and Topper and Almanac. You could help give them the sort of school they deserve. You could--"
"What would I have to do?"
Relieved beyond all measure, Luna let heave a sigh. A bad case of the trembles set in and she was forced to steady herself before she slipped up and revealed her moment of weakness. Clearing her throat, she said, "It starts by being honest. If you have other crimes to confess, we must sort them out. I have to be able to trust you. And you... you must have the desire to do right for right's sake."
"Oh, I have much to confess," he replied. "But I guess you know that. You're cruel to string me along like this. You force me to spill my guts and then you take from me everything I hold dear. What lessons do you wish to teach me by doing this? What am I to take away from this?"
"What lessons--"
"Adults are careless with the lessons they teach," Overcast said, interrupting Luna. "Do as I say, not as I do. There's a lesson I learned early on. I learned that power meant brazenly displaying your hypocrisy without fear. Since coming to this school, I've learned many lessons, though perhaps not the ones the teachers intended to teach. So... what lessons do you have prepared for me? What am I to take away from you into my adulthood?"
"I'm sorry that you've been hurt by the careless adults around you. I really am."
The colt recoiled as if he'd been struck. His mask slipped off and she clearly saw the pain found within his unswollen eye. Not so much a physical pain--though there was plenty of that--but all the mental pain he kept bottled up inside of him. It was clear that he was expecting her to push back, to dominate, but her apology caught him off guard. He became as he truly was; a scared, frightened juvenile lost in a dark wilderness of hurt. When he tried to restore his defenses, he failed. Spectacularly. Overcome, Overcast turned away to hide his face from her.
"If you help me, together, we can hold them accountable. Not for the sake of retribution, but for the betterment of the school. So everypony benefits. It would be so much easier with your help."
"I didn't mean for things to go as far as they did... really, I didn't. Everything just snowballed. I'm sorry. I don't... I don't even know why I'm fighting. It's stupid. I just... I just hate being wrong. I'm worried that everything I have will be taken away. Some things are more painful to lose than others."
"Overcast--"
"You're the Dreamwalker. You might be the only pony that truly understands me. But I'm pushing you away just like I do everypony else. Why do I do that? I can't trust anypony. The moment it feels like there's going to be trouble, I just... self-destruct. I'm sorry."
"Overcast," she said again, "do you want my help?"
"Please... just make the hurting stop if you can. I'll do anything you ask."
A few seconds slipped past...
"Is there anything that you wish to tell me? Anything of importance to confess?"
He turned around and when he did, his expression was one of pained pleading. For a short time, he looked up at her, sighed, and then cast his gaze down to the floor. "I have a cat. We're not supposed to have pets, but lots of the students do. They have mice or gerbils or hamsters or even birds, all of which are a violation of the rules. But I have a cat. Please, please don't take him."
"You have a cat?" she asked.
"I do."
"What is his name?"
"Placebo."
"You have a cat you call Placebo."
"I'm pretty positive that whatever happiness he gives me has to be an illusion. Just a trick of the brain. Chemistry and such being what it is. It can't be real... but I rather like the effect. If you take my cat away, I will never forgive you."
"If I took what made you happy away from you, I don't think I'd ever forgive myself."
Conflicted, uncertain, Overcast didn't seem convinced. "What do you want from me? How do I save my cat? I know I've broken the rules. I've broken a lot of rules. I'll probably break more rules when I think that nopony is watching. I don't want to lose anything I've worked hard for, but I'll give it all up for my cat. He's all I have."
There was no act here, no manipulation. No overblown sense of drama. There was only brutal sincerity. Overcast was willing to give up everything for the sake of his cat. For Luna, this was affirmation of what she already knew, and if a cat is what it took to lure a pony out of the darkness, that was a small price to pay. That he cared about anything at all was a positive sign. It was something for her to work with, but it wasn't a bargaining chip, a conditional reward to be yanked away as punishment. That would be damaging in the extreme.
"As a prefect, certain allowances can be made. I give you my word, you will keep your cat."
"Really?"
"Yes, but you must show more kindness to all animals. No more experimenting on frogs and such."
"But..." He blinked, shook his head, and tried again. "But we dissect frogs. We study them. They're just... frogs."
"The intent is what matters. Why inflict needless suffering?"
"Fine. I can spare a bit of mercy for frogs. For Placebo."
"You really love your cat," she said to him.
He shrugged, then did so for a second time, and offered no response.
"I would like to meet your cat," Luna said. "We should leave this dark place. Take me to your quarters, Overcast. So that I might say hello to Placebo. We still have much to discuss."
"Just... please... please don't take my cat. I hope I can trust you."
The colt's quarters weren't anything like Luna expected. But then again, she didn't know what to expect from Overcast. He kept surprising her at every turn. Everything was clean enough, but somewhat cluttered. Upon entering, the first thing that she noticed was that Overcast was a philatelist; there were dozens of books about the subject on the shelf, as well as small glass and wood cases filled with stamps. There appeared to be an interest in zeppelin stamps in particular, and a focus upon airmail.
His quarters were not smelly, as one might expect of a young colt left to his own devices. The bed was made, though not made well. Perhaps Placebo mussed the covers. But the cat was not on the bed, no. At the moment, the polydactyl, polycaudal beast sat upon Overcast's back, and they greeted one another with warm affection. Of course the colt had a mutant cat fit for a circus sideshow. Placebo's congested purring was really rather loud and filled the room with a comforting sound.
There were curious things to be found here. A collection of pickled punks sat upon the back edge of the desk, with everything from breezies to parasprites. Small things. Nothing too horrific, but it was still an odd collection. There were books about magic, both practical casting and theory. A potions textbook lay open on the desk, and there was an assignment tucked beneath it.
Though, the strangest thing of all was found when Luna turned about to examine the other side of the room. There, on the workbench, was a lump of hairy clay. It wasn't clay with hair stuck into it, no. It was clay that was clearly growing hair and it put off a peculiar, somewhat unwholesome magic signature. This was unnatural in the extreme, a reckless bit of experimentation. The clay was dried out, a bit cracked in places, and Luna could sense that it was dying. Slowly. Though she could not sense if it was in pain.
"Overcast..."
"Yes?"
"You have... hairy clay."
His face flushed and turned dark. "I was trying to invent velvet pottery. I got the clay to grow hair, but it was too long and not fuzzy. When put into the kiln, the clay died and the hair started to fall out. I don't have a clue what went wrong. Been meaning to get it sorted out, but I've been a bit distracted lately."
"But... Overcast... why would the world need velvet pottery?"
"You ask me that, but I ask you, why wouldn't the world need velvet pottery?"
Turning herself about, she focused all of her attention upon Placebo, and tried to ignore the dying lump of hairy clay now behind her. The sooty grey cat appeared healthy, showed no signs of being experimented upon, and clearly loved Overcast. She counted at least three tails, two that were long, and a short stubby one. There might have been more, but she couldn't see them. Lots of toes. Too many toes.
Try as she might, she could not focus on the cat, not with the grotesque experiment behind her. As delicately as possible, she asked, "Overcast, dear, what on earth would possess you to make clay grow hair? Honestly now, what were you thinking? I mean, such demented imagination... while I do admire your creativity, I cannot imagine any sort of practical purpose."
He shrugged; it was infuriating, but Luna held herself in check.
There had to be a purpose; perhaps he was hiding it from her just to be contrary.
"The real trouble with hairy pottery is that when you bake it in the kiln, there is the terrible stench of burning hair. I envisioned fuzzy flower pots and such when I first conceived of the idea. Perhaps the fuzz could change colour when the plant was in need of watering and the soil was too dry. A dense coat of fuzz might help a teacup stay hot longer." He tilted his head off to one side and looked up at Luna. "If you stop to think about why you shouldn't do something, you'll never get anything done. Just go where your ideas take you."
"Don't take this the wrong way, but you have the demented vagary of a crackpot."
The colt scowled for a moment, his ears twitched, his nostrils flared, and then he snorted. "That's not funny. You leave my pottery skills out of this."
"Are you calm?" she asked.
"I have my cat," he replied.
"That will have to do," she said to him. "We're not finished. There is still much to sort out. Hopefully we can finish without any unpleasantness."
"I always feel better with Placebo. At least I think I do. The effect is uncertain."
"Dare I even ask how you found your cat? Was he a stray?"
"Are you asking me to confess yet another of my crimes?"
"How many crimes have you committed?"
"I refuse to answer that without assurances that I will be spared."
"And you've already failed the first lesson, Overcast. You must learn to trust me. As difficult as that is, more so now with our rough start, you must give me answers when I ask questions."
"What am I to expect in return?"
"That's not how this works. As I have said, I am an adult. You are a foal. Like it or not, you will do as you are told. When I ask a question, you will answer me. A straight answer. An honest answer. That is the cost of my tutelage."
"Tutelage?"
"You'd make for a poor servant in your current state. First, you must be groomed for the position. You will be taught charm. Charisma. You will learn to make friends and to gain the trust of others. If you are to be my representative, all of your rough edges must be smoothed over."
"I see."
"Not yet you do not. But you will. Now tell me... how did you acquire your cat?"
He shuffled on his hooves, his tail swished behind him, and he furtively averted his gaze so that he might look elsewhere. "There was an alchemist's shop. I heard him yowling inside. The lock on the door wasn't a very good one, and the alarm wasn't much to mention. When I found Placebo, he was sick. I liberated him and nursed him back to health."
Luna was about to say something that might have been a bit harsh, but then she thought about how she'd broken into Twilight's home. She suspected that there was more to this that Overcast wasn't telling her. Or maybe there wasn't. Perhaps it really was this straight forward. Given his natural propensity for crime, this was just how the colt approached a problem. It would have to be corrected--or harnessed for the greater good.
Her mind felt sharper than it had in a long time. She had a curious sense of focus now. A purpose. Was this why Celestia took on students? Perhaps there was something in common with her sister, and if so, Luna was glad for it. Overcast had turned his attention to his cat and was clucking his tongue at the sleepy-but-contented creature. The small colt could be sensitive to the needs of others, which made him stand out. Though, perhaps not in a good way before his peers.
Sighing, Luna knew that she had her work cut out for her.
She too had started down a dark path because of a desire to do good.
Charon made no change when he accepted good intentions in exchange for a boat ride to Tartarus. All sales were final. No returns. The river was swift and wide, but the crossing was shockingly quick. For as bad as the situation was, it wasn't as awful as she had first thought. Overcast had redeeming qualities. He could show considerable kindness to others, but only to those he felt were deserving. Which was a problem. Luna had that same problem, though she dared not admit it. To help Overcast, she would have to first help herself. Get herself sorted out.
"So if I'm not your student, who will teach me? My teachers? The ones who've gone missing?"
This unexpected question caught Luna off guard, but she was quick to recover.
"Tutors, of course. Quite possibly the same tutors my sister uses to educate the students she takes an interest in. Are you warming up to all of this, Overcast?"
"Don't know yet. I don't like being forced into all of this."
"Do better. Options and choice will be restored to you. Cease your felonious hobbies."
"Look, I'm not dumb. You want me around because of my felonious hobbies."
Upon hearing this, Luna's expression turned deadpan.
"Just saying. If I don't keep those skills in practice, they'll grow rusty. And then what'll you do?" He glanced at the purring feline on his back for a second, and then squinted up at Luna. "We have to be honest with each other, right?"
"The essential arts of--ahem--spycraft--ahem--will be taught to you in a safe, protected environment that poses no risk of harm to others," Luna said with great care, choosing each word with considerable caution. "It seems there is no dancing around this issue. No being shy about what you're called to do. But you must be discrete. Polite. These are things that should not be discussed. Not even with your friends. Which reminds me... there is a matter that I must bring to your attention."
The colt appeared to listen.
"I want you to be friends with Almanac. Special friends. Without realising it, you've done her great harm. That must be addressed. You will help her trust in her teachers and the authority figures in her life. Become a fine example for her. While I would never take your cat away--I can clearly see that you need him and that he is a stabilising presence in your life--I do expect for you to give something in return other than just your base cooperation. Do we understand each other?"
There was a soft sigh from Overcast, and after a moment spent in thought, he nodded.
"Anything to say about this? I will listen to whatever concerns you might voice."
"It's just... I don't trust my teachers. At all. Not sure how I'm supposed to help her. A part of me thinks I'll just make things worse no matter what I do."
"Then you will learn to trust together. Help will be had."
"I really am sorry for how I acted. I don't know what came over me. I just felt... threatened."
Luna nodded in a knowing way. "You have trouble feeling threatened."
"Look at me," he whispered. "I'm practically pink. Just look at me. I have no athletic skill to speak of. There's nothing about me that stands out... or, at least, that is how it was before I learned how to be strong. I was good enough to get into this school, but being a gifted unicorn in Canterlot is just sort of expected. I was teased. Picked on. Put down. I went from being barely adequate to what I am now. And to lose all of that..." He shook his head.
These words weighed heavily upon Luna's heart. She knew the feeling. To be inadequate. But in her case, it was in contrast to one that shone so brightly. Overcast had cured himself of his mediocrity, but had gone too far. Now it consumed him--in very much the way that Luna's own ambition had once devoured her. There was a lot to sort out here, for both Overcast and herself.
"Advanced matter manipulation and classes like that... the grading is simplified." The colt tensed. "In some ways, it makes things better, but also worse. You don't have to worry about percentages, or extra credits, or fighting to keep your grades above a certain point. You just have to pass. I am the youngest in my classes. Most of my classmates are twice my age. They're more mature. Nicer. They don't tease as much, if at all.
"Many of them fail. It's just a thing that happens. But we know the cost of failure and we help each other. It's different from my other classes. Better. I crave it. Something we all learned early on was that we have strength in numbers. The more of us there are, the better our odds at overcoming a problem. Each of us approaches a problem in a different way. So we band together to make sure we all pass. For each of us that fails, and when our numbers dwindle, we lose some of our shared knowledge. I know I cheated. I know what I did. But I belong there. My classmates depend on me and I depend on them. I don't think that we're friends, but there is something... I don't know what it is. I just know that it is important."
"So to fail once..."
"Means getting tossed out of the class. And when we lose somepony, we all grieve. I think it's grief. I don't actually know. But it feels like very real loss and we all struggle to deal with it. I hate it. Hate it. I hate it more than anything and it eats at me."
"You are being open with me. I appreciate that. Thank you."
"You're the Dreamwalker. I... you... well, I--" The colt failed to finish his sentence and his stammering turned to muffled heavy breathing.
"And you admire that. Beyond that, you sympathise with that, and you are one of the few that can truly commiserate with the troubles and hardships I face. You find yourself in a confusing and conflicting position, Overcast. You resent the authority figures in your life because you feel slighted and betrayed. But you still feel a sense of worshipful reverence for me. It must feel like you're being torn in two."
In the moment of silence that followed, Luna knew that they had reached an understanding. Something changed in Overcast's demeanour; something brightened in some vague almost imperceptible way. She had established a door, perhaps. In a metaphorical sense, doors could be slammed shut, or left open. Either way, they remained doors, and as such, they allowed access. In this, Luna saw promise. While things would not be easy, and Overcast would no doubt raise many walls, there was a door. An understanding that opened both ways. All it took was a knock to remind the other that the door existed.
Doors were also a fantastic means to move about in dreams.
"So why can't I experiment with frogs?" asked Overcast. "I mean, that's what they're there for. I'm not being defiant. I'm just trying to understand."
Luna took a deep breath and then replied, "As I have stated, intent matters. You have dabbled into darkness. Cruel experimentation will only further worsen your condition. Compassion is the cure."
"Sort of like how I found Placebo. I think the alchemist I stole him from was using him to see if potions were safe. Or something. So... I guess frogs shouldn't suffer needlessly just so I can perfect my spellcraft. I'd never really thought about it before. Of course, now I am wondering why we use frogs at all."
Having no good answer, Luna did not know how to respond.
"So... what comes next? I assume there are more conditions. What must I do?"
He was taking this rather well, now that he had come around. Which gave Luna confidence to do what she knew must be done. There were of course other things, little things, trivial things that she had fully intended to discuss, but now seemed like a good time to get right to the heart of the matter. Overcast's mood might survive it--or it could destroy him completely.
She feared the latter might be the outcome.
"You have a great many stamps," she said as she allowed herself a look around his room. "Upon my return, I found the post office a most curious institution."
He was taken completely off guard by this but was quick to recover himself. "I, uh, well, um, yes, stamps are fascinating, but only, uh, well, uh, stamps are fascinating because of, um, well, because of what they represent."
Luna asked the question that Overcast clearly wanted her to ask. "And what is it that stamps represent?"
"We assign value to scraps of paper," he replied with a bit more of his usual poise and grace. "Just sticky bits of paper. With glue. But the paper represents a monetary value. A scrap of paper that is assigned an arbitrary value, an exchange of goods and services. But it is so much more than that. With a scrap of paper, we compel a public servant to carry a letter from one place to another... but that letter can be ideas. Inspiration. The letter itself has value. At least, it can. But... this whole exchange, including an arduous cross-country trek for some letters, we assign it the value of just a few bits. Nothing more. With a scrap of paper, we can set a complex series of events into motion with significant outcome at the other end."
Eyes narrowing, Luna studied the now squirming colt, who clearly had more to say.
"I find the whole system quite exploitive," he continued. "We depend upon the pegasus ponies as our messengers. Because they can fly. Yet those same pegasus ponies have trouble using the stamps we unicorns invented to send letters. Earth ponies too. They have trouble tearing a stamp off of a sheet, licking the back of it, and then affixing it to a letter. For us unicorns, we barely even exert any effort at all. It's the milk carton problem, but worse."
He stumbled backwards, unceremoniously dumped poor Placebo onto the bed, and then sat down himself. "As problematic as they are, and as much trouble they cause my mind, I cannot stop collecting them. They are tiny portraits. Art. On a teeny-tiny scale. I love the details to be found beneath a magnifying glass. Some stamps have hidden pictures made from tiny dots that can't be seen under normal circumstances."
"You are very sensitive about things." This wasn't a question, but a statement. Luna, though stating the obvious, felt it needed to be said. "Saying these things around your peers, revealing how you think and how you feel, it got you teased. It set you apart. You were made to feel different. Excluded. As if there was something wrong with you because of how you saw the world."
Silent, Overcast sent his gaze straight down to the floor and did not respond.
"You were mocked and ridiculed. Belittled. Made to feel ashamed for merely thinking."
Reaching out, Overcast scooped up Placebo, and held him--but offered no response.
"So now, you seek out the details of others. To know their secrets. You listen. You observe. And you no-doubt humiliate them and mock them when given a chance so that they might share your pain."
Saying nothing, Overcast offered no denial.
"I was once like you... and I suppose in some ways, I still am," Luna confessed.
She moved closer, reached out with her wing, and with great tenderness, she touched his bruised cheek. "There's a better way. I'll show you. I'm bound to make mistakes, because I'm still learning to navigate this new path. The best revenge is a life well-lived. Will you work with me? Please, do not feel threatened. My goal is not to take away, but to give. I know this must be scary. The unknown is always scary. But whatever awaits you in the dark is worse, I assure you. The power that you crave is but bait in a trap. It might seem attainable... but what you lose for what you gain... please, please do not make the mistakes that I have."
She cleared her throat and found her own heart racing.
"We start tonight. This very even. It is time to rip off the scab and drain out the poison."
"What must I do?" he asked.
"You must reconcile with your parents."
"I can't." The response came out with a slight hitching.
"You can. And you will."
"No," he replied, "I can't. What you're asking is impossible."
"You are wrong, Overcast, and you--"
"No, you're wrong!" he shouted. "It's too complicated! Too impossible! My mother tried to come and talk to me. She came to the school. She just wouldn't stop! I had her removed from the visitor list and she was barred from the school grounds. I can't fix things now. It would mean explaining why I did everything I did and all the things she did and all the things my dad did, and I can't deal with those things! It's too much at once! Every time I think about trying to fix it, I just end up overwhelmed and depressed and it makes me not want to live."
"But you have thought about fixing it," she said to him.
He began to sniffle and clung tightly to his cat. "When you put your wing around me, it made me want my mom. It made me remember her. It made things difficult for me. A part of me hated you for doing it. I was angry with you for making me remember and it all came bubbling out earlier. It's why I was so cross. I'm sorry. Please, don't make me do this. I can't."
"A clearer picture emerges," Luna said to the troubled colt. "No doubt, after the relentless mockery of your peers and fellow classmates, you've been made ashamed of wanting your mother. Your refuge beneath her wing. A place of solace and comfort for you. A place where--"
"Will you just shut up!" he shouted.
Much to Luna's surprise, her response was not one of anger, but of pity. Without meaning to do so, she had injured him. She had carelessly tweaked the festering wound. What arose from within her depths was guilt--but not the crippling sort of guilt that overwhelmed her. This was something else, something unknown. Something almost welcomed. There was a warmth to it that spread through her mind and ignited hope within her thoughts.
"I'm sorry," he said, apologising.
"I am as well," she was quick to say. "Honestly. Truly. The pain of this wound must be unbearable."
"It eats at me," he wheezed, and from the choked sound of his voice, it was obvious that he struggled to hold back his sobs.
"Anger and hatred make the ache go away... or at least be not as noticeable. It dulls the pain. Like ice on a bruise."
When he nodded, she was terrified. Cold dread settled through her muscles and knotted her guts. Not only did Luna fear this old pain, she feared the memory of this pain, and it promised a return. But she was not overwhelmed. Black despair found no purchase. She was so concerned with the agony of another that she stayed out of reach of her own self-inflicted torment.
"I will help you, I promise. But you have to trust me. I will help you make things better. Just give me your trust, Overcast. We can do this together."
"I can't."
"I am aware of how impossible this feels. And it might very well be impossible for you to deal with. You may not be able to face this alone. But, you are not alone. I will be with you."
"How do I even start?" he whimpered. A wordless whine slipped out, followed by a low moan of anguish. "Why must it take so long for love to die? Why must it ache? I just wanted everything to go dead and it just wouldn't. Things kept happening... like you putting your wing around me. It hurts so much. I can't take this anymore."
"When Almanac hugged you today, you thought of your mother."
He did not respond. Instead, he pressed his face against his cat, and hid himself. As for Luna, she stood there bearing witness to all of this. Overcast was a wreck, a ship smashed upon the rocks. While she couldn't stop the collision, she could save him from drowning. She would aid in his recovery. Poor Placebo, now soaked with tears, meowed in protest but made no effort to escape.
"And this... this is your attraction to the archives. Things committed to memory, but still forgotten. A record of things that once were, but are no longer. You sought to forget in a place intended for remembrance."
"It made me feel better to know that they were all somehow remembered even if they weren't around." His words were muffled because of Placebo, but still clear enough to be understood. "Will you really help me?"
"Do you doubt that I will?" she asked.
"I just don't see how you can help me," he replied. When he pulled his face away from his cat, he was a mess of tears and cat hair. "If you give me my mother back, I will be your slave. Anything you ask of me, I'll give you. My life is yours. All of it. I don't think I can be trusted with it. Just... just look at the mess I've made of things. If you can fix this and make the pain go away, I will give you all of me."
"Are you ready to go?" she asked.
"Right now?" Cringing, the colt seemed to shrink in size.
"There's no point in delaying. It will be a long walk home for you. Longer than you know. It begins by turning around, facing the light, and walking out of the darkness. That... that is a long walk. I know from experience. Tonight, you will experience endless distance. And I shall walk beside you every terrible step of the way."
"I don't know if I can. I think I need some time so I can--"
"There is no time," she deadpanned. "With every second that passes, this will only grow more difficult. Trust me, I know."
Slowly, his expression pained, Overcast put his cat down upon the bed. He touched Placebo once, stroked him, almost as if he were apologising for the mess. The cat immediately flopped over onto a pillow, kicked out his legs, and flexed his abundance of toes. There were just far too many toes for one cat. Placebo had a surplus of toes for several.
"What if she doesn't want to talk to me?" he asked.
"I am not one to be refused." Luna's dull deadpan persisted; she was far too emotional but she was needed.
Yes, she was needed, and that was good.
"A bargain has been struck, Overcast. You have offered me your life, and I intend to keep it. In return, I will give you a life. One of promise. Of goodness. Of everything that you prove worthy of. In exchange for your fealty, you will be given a life of servitude. With time, with trust, you might even be given a bit of power, once you have shown that you are worthy of it. Everything your heart desires begins with a long walk. First I return to you your mother and father. Other things of value will be given to you later. Treasures beyond comprehension await you. Will you follow me?"
Bowing his head, the colt offered up a weak, feeble nod. "I will."
"Do you know what faith is, Overcast?"
"No," he replied, shaking his head from side to side. "I've never given it much thought."
"Faith is allowing your hooves to take you where your heart would choose not to go. What you are doing right now, this is an act of faith. Faith is courage. But no matter what other ponies might say, faith does not have to be blind. Tonight, your eyes will be forcibly opened, and the light will be blinding. There will be pain. Your legs may fail you. All manner of metaphorical events might happen. But you will endure because I will be there with you. If you cannot see, then I shall be your eyes. If you legs fail you, I will carry you. Should the darkness reach for you, it will be reminded that I am its mistress and that you belong to me. Your faith will be rewarded. Do not let your heart be troubled."
Not a word was spoken in response; there was just a nod.
"Tonight, I give a mother back her son," she said in a low whisper. Then, unspoken, she added, Tonight I will be the pony my sister believes me to be.
It would be a long night; perhaps longer than anypony could anticipate. But the sun would rise. The gift of gold would restore hope to the world. Life would show its appreciation with a recompense of green. For Luna, this would be a night where the ending would be of greater importance than its beginning. The sun was already retreating, she could feel it.
This was the time for the moon to shine, and so too would Luna. |
Whipped Cream & Other Delights | pre | Meanwhile, the hooves' grip on Flitter's face shifted slightly. Pinkie's thickening chest flab was jostling her shoulders with its growth--and in turn her swelling, marshmallow-like shoulders tried to press her forearms out to the side. But those forelegs pressed back, both from Pinkie's squeezing to keep her hold on Flitter, and from her limbs' own growth, as they swelled with inch after inch of soft fat. Her hind legs and haunches thickened as well, with her fat pasterns squishing into the sides of her belly, even when her legs were still. Said belly bloated to twice Pinkie's usual width, and then even wider; it would have hung nearly to the ground if she were standing on her hooves.
Flitter's hooves, meanwhile, wiggled in the air from excitement, sending ripples through her huge body. Slowly, very slowly, she was regaining her mobility: her shoulders and haunches shrank, releasing her legs from their embrace, inch after inch. But those limbs were still engulfed nearly to the fetlocks; Flitter still had plenty of weight to lose.
Pinkie, though still dwarfed by Flitter's immensity, was huge in her own right--and growing moreso by the second. Her tail waved in the air above an enormous rump, each cheek as wide as a normal pony and sagging slightly under its own weight. Below that, her stomach bulged between her legs, squishing around her limbs farther and farther. That belly was large enough to serve as Pinkie's bed, and would have lifted all her hooves off the floor if she weren't suspended in the air by magic. Even in this position, it pressed against Flitter's gut below as it grew even fatter.
Flitter's fat cheeks wobbled in Pinkie's wavering hooves. Pinkie's shoulders bloated larger and rounder, while her swelling chest fat squished outward from between them--both pressing harder against Pinkie's forelegs with every passing second. She kept her grip on Flitter, somehow, but her hind legs were already losing their mobility. Her endlessly expanding gut pushed her back hooves up and out, and her thick haunches began to swallow her legs as they fattened even further. Her cutie marks stretched along with those haunches--they were nearly the size of real party balloons. Pinkie's tail was already miniscule atop her growing rump: each individual cheek had the mass of an adult pony, and still they bloated even bigger.
Underneath, Pinkie's belly pressed further into Flitter's, squishing across those soft, lilac curves as she grew. Flitter's gut only pressed back half-heartedly, instead shrinking in the face of the pink expansion. As she felt Pinkie spread--soft and warm--across her own retreating gut, Flitter couldn't help but laugh into Pinkie's lips.
Pinkie gave a short, happy moan in response, sending small vibrations through her own fat cheeks, already the size of melons and still thickening further. Her neck swelled, likewise--a collar of fat that had already formed a second chin and was now working on a third. It squished against the inches and inches of fat over her chest, which led down seamlessly to the even thicker flab of her stomach. That belly already was already packing as much fat as dozens upon dozens of MMMMs; it was twice Pinkie's normal height and twice again as wide, and still that oversized pink marshmallow grew even more massive.
Flitter's cheeks shrank a few inches more--and Pinkie's forehooves lost their grip. Those pink legs snapped away and pointed nearly straight out from Pinkie's sides. "Hmmhmmm..." She murmured as she tried to reach forward again, but her forelegs only flexed a few inches. Thick sleeves of fat padded her limbs--growing thicker by the second--while the bases were swallowed by the bloated doughnut shapes that had been her shoulders. Pinkie's hooves already couldn't reach the floor, and soon enough they wouldn't be able to reach anything.
With Pinkie's forelegs away from her face, Flitter could finally get a better look at Pinkie. But only a slightly better look--from this close, only a small fraction of Pinkie's bulk could possibly be seen.
Oh, Flitter thought, as she finally understood just what this magic spell was doing. So that's what Pinkie meant when she said there wouldn't be any weird side effects for me.
Both bellies continued squishing together. Even as the magic burned away Flitter's fat, Pinkie gained weight fast enough to make up the difference and fill the empty space--more than fast enough, in fact. Pinkie was somehow growing more quickly than Flitter could shrink.
Pinkie Pie's belly brushed against the reinforced cloud below--then, as it grew even further, it fully rested on the floor and spread outward. For a brief moment, both ponies were the same size. And that was rather disconcerting, since Flitter was still fully two-thirds her starting size.
What the hay kind of spell is this? Flitter wondered, as her belly lost contact with the floor, lifted into the air by the magic aura.
----------
"Pinkie, I don't think this is going to work," Twilight said. "This is just an older version of Apple Bright's Chubby Chaser. Another rapid weight-gain spell. You know, the opposite of what you're looking for."
"Yes, but look at how you cast it," Pinkie said, slapping her forehoof onto the page. "Under 'material components' it says: 'the fat of one stout mare or stallion, to serve as fuel.' You see, Twilight? Not as a catalyst, as fuel."
"Oh." Twilight's eyes widened, and she scanned the page quickly. "You're right! It isn't how Apple Bright intended for anypony to use his spell, but you actually could use this to remove large quantities of somepony's excess fat."
"Great!" Pinkie stood up and marched over in front of Twilight. "Cast it on me, so I can use it to make Flitter thin again!"
"Um, Pinkie?" Twilight gulped. "You realize the thinning is just a side-effect, right?"
"Yeah, of course. All the weight Flitter loses will get magically transferred to me!"
"Not just transferred. Multiplied. However fat Flitter is right now, you're going to end up four times as big, if I cast this spell."
"Yeah? What's wrong with that?" Pinkie stepped forward until her nose was inches away from Twilight's. "Are you worried about my weight, Twilight? That's nice of you, but..."
"No, no, it's just..." Twilight blushed. "Is there some catch? Is this a prank?"
"If this were, it'd be weird and not very funny." Pinkie furrowed her brows. "Twilight, do you think all my pranks are weird and not very funny?"
"You really want me to cast a spell that will make you a big ball of blubber?"
"You don't need to talk me into it, silly! I've already made up my mind."
Twilight allowed herself to smile. "Alright, then." Her horn lit up as she charged the spell. "Can I come see you, after you're done?"
Pinkie smiled right back. "If this spell works as well as you say, it'll be hard for you not to see me!"
----------
"Hhrrrmm..." Flitter reached forward, straining against her bloated shoulders and the sleeves of fat on her forelegs--which both gave less resistance as they shrank with every passing second. Eventually, she could brush her hooves against Pinkie's face. Then, Flitter grasped Pinkie's cheeks, holding their faces together just as Pinkie had done before.
In this position, Flitter could feel as Pinkie's face grew fatter--her cheeks squishing against those hooves with their continued expansion. At the same time, more fur brushed against the other side of Flitter's hooves: the immense fat of Pinkie's torso was swallowing her neck. And Pinkie's forelegs continued sinking into her bloating shoulders in the same way--up to the knees by now--while her expanding haunches reached nearly to her hind pasterns. Those haunches were thick enough to be a bed for a normal-sized pony; as they expanded even further, Pinkie's cutie marks stretched to the size of bed sheets.
While Pinkie's shape disappeared further under ever-thickening layers of round flab, Flitter was beginning to resemble herself again, slowly but surely. The fat of her withers slowly released her neck. Her legs emerged farther and farther from her shoulders and haunches as they shrank. Reveling in her newfound freedom, Flitter tried to kick her hind legs--and those hooves just bounced against her belly, still the height of two ponies. Though her haunches and rump shrank--the dragonflies on her cutie mark were merely the size of hawks by this point--they were still fat enough to wobble at the motion.
And that shaking carried through Flitter's forelegs, to Pinkie's fattening face--and then the rest of Pinkie's gigantic body, which jiggled and rippled as it expanded even larger. Her cheeks were each larger than her head. They squished forward as the thick circle of fat around her neck--now merging with her torso--pressed against the back of her head and the base of her jaw. Pinkie's forelegs had disappeared up to the pasterns; only the very tips of her hind hooves still poked out of her bloating haunches. Underneath, her gut widened farther and farther, spreading across the floor, until it pressed into Flitter's cloud mattress, bulging around its edges. If she were resting directly on that mattress, her belly would squish over all four sides, just like Flitter's had before. Pinkie's stomach grew to four times a normal pony's height--she was a hill of pink blubber, the same size Flitter had been before this magic spell--and still she grew even larger.
Pinkie gave one final kick with her hind hooves, barely moving them an inch, and then the fat of her haunches engulfed them completely. Those hips, swollen so large that her cutie marks now resembled trios of weather balloons, bobbed and jiggled from their place atop Pinkie's ever-expanding gut. Said belly spread like a doughy glacier underneath, pushing Flitter's cloud mattress into the wall with its continued growth. On the other side, that humongous blob of a stomach bulged around the only other furniture in the room--the folding table, a chair, a small bookcase with a gramophone on top--quickly enveloping them in the sea of pink pudge. Pinkie's gut, bearing as much fat as thousands upon thousand of cakes, already covered a third of the room's huge floor space, and still it spread even more.
Flitter worked her wings, noting with joy how much less her body jiggled with every flap. Her legs were freed from their flabby prisons; her belly was merely large enough to force her legs outward and rest on the floor. And then Flitter murmured apprehensively at the tightness around her forehooves. She was still gripping Pinkie's face, barely holding onto a pair of pudgy cheeks wider than most ponies' rumps. But as Pinkie's withers and neck bulged even further, expanding around her head like enormous lumps of bread dough, they pinned Flitter's forehooves in place.
"Hrrm!" Flitter muttered into Pinkie's lips, trying in vain to pull her legs free. Her hooves would slide out a few inches--then that pink doughnut of fat would spread forward a few inches as well. Pinkie's head was sinking into her own torso and pulling Flitter in with her, almost as fast as Flitter was pulling herself out. "Hrrm! Mrrmm!" Flitter jerked and yanked--making Pinkie's fat face bounce and the rest of her body wobble and shake--as she slowly extracted her hooves from the hungry pink crevice.
Pinkie just giggled into Flitter's mouth, as her whole body jiggled and rippled and just kept growing. Her forehooves disappeared completely into the oversized marshmallows at her sides. Now, the only evidence that she'd once possessed legs were infolded divots, each in the centers of the fat doughnuts that used to be her shoulders and haunches. Her individual rump cheeks--bouncing and slapping against each other as her body shook--were larger than a college freshmare's dorm room. And those were still dwarfed by that titanic belly: a hill of pink flab, lifting Pinkie above the floor to five times her old height, then six times. That blubber covered two-thirds of the floor; it spread completely over Flitter's mattress, pressing it down into the cloud floor; it bulged more and more tightly around the furniture pinned against the opposite wall, and still it expanded to mind-boggling sizes.
Once Flitter's own belly had finally shrunk enough, she placed her hind hooves on Pinkie's chest flab and used that as leverage. She pushed with her back legs--her hooves sinking six inches, then a full foot, into that soft, pink pudge--as she pulled on her forelegs. "Hrrrrrrgg..." she said, grunting right into Pinkie's mouth, as she strained with all her might. Then, with a soft pop! her hooves sprang free from the rolls of neck fat that were still swallowing Pinkie's head.
"Whoa!" Flitter fell backwards, finally breaking the kiss as she tumbled away from Pinkie--then the magic aura caught her. After reorienting the pegasus, it mashed her muzzle firmly back into Pinkie's, allowing the body weight transfer to resume.
"Mmmmm..." Pinkie moaned contentedly, as she resumed growing fatter and fatter. Her neck and torso bulged all around her head--above, below, and on both sides, forming a small cave of pink flab about her. Underneath, more and more fat grew on her titanic belly. That mountain of adipose had spread far enough to squish against three walls of the room, and only a few feet separated it from the remaining wall. Flitter's mattress, buried underneath Pinkie's flab, was flattened into a cloud rug. Crushed between that pink gut and the wall, the table creaked in defeat and broke into splinters, followed quickly by the chair, then the bookcase--each piece of furniture's demise sending ripples across the gigantic globe of Pinkie's still-expanding belly.
Meanwhile, Flitter's eyes widened, as the magic aura tightened once more around her whole body. "Hrrmm! Hmmm!" she protested into Pinkie's mouth. Suddenly, the magic squeezed--hard enough to force the breath from her lungs. Just as suddenly, the grip eased up, freeing Flitter to suck in a few breaths.
And then Flitter found herself jerked backwards, as the magic aura pulled her out of the kiss once again. Hovering in the air, she had the presence of mind to hold her wings at the ready, just in case she dropped. And from this position, several feet back from Pinkie, Flitter could better take in the sight of the pink behemoth that her friend had become. Pinkie's face was barely visible--sunken a few feet into the fat of her torso, and obscured behind a pair of cheeks, each as wide as an ordinary pony's entire rump. Her shoulders and haunches were doughnut-shaped lumps of lard, several times a pony's height in diameter. Her rump cheeks were smooth pink hills, large enough to accommodate multiple picnicking families. And supporting all of that--lifting her up to just a few inches shy of the ceiling--was the squashed globe of that stupefyingly huge belly. Before the magic spell, Flitter had possessed feet-thick layers of fat; Pinkie Pie's largest deposits were stories thick. Enough energy to feed the rest of Equestria for months was stored in that titanic stomach as pure blubber.
"In the name of Celestia..." Flitter whispered.
Then the magic spell dissipated, its work complete. Both ponies were released from the aura's grip. Flitter remembered to flap her wings. Pinkie, of course, lacked wings--and at her size, they wouldn't have done her any good, anyway.
One second, Pinkie was there. The next, Pinkie was gone, and the entire floor with her.
"Crud!" Flitter muttered, then she dove after the falling pony on pure instinct.
Pinkie had a few seconds' head start, but she also had a huge surface area, so friction would slow her fall significantly. Flitter, on the other hoof, could minimize her drag and flap for extra downward acceleration. So catching up with Pinkie was no trouble at all.
"Wheeeeeeeeeeee!" Pinkie shouted, as Flitter zoomed by.
Once Flitter had gained a sufficient lead, she slowed to a hover--stopping right in place to intercept Pinkie's fall. "Don't worry, Pinkie!" she shouted up at the pink blob dropping towards her. "I'll catch you!"
Flitter had just enough time to realize that she may have made a mistake--and then she found herself plastered to the underside of that huge belly, still falling at a worrying speed.
Seconds later, Pinkie impacted the ground.
----------
Ponyville locals tell interesting stories about this day. They claim that they heard a sound like a mining explosion, or another battle between Twilight Sparkle and some villain. That every building and most of the trees leaped at least ten feet into the air. That the local geography changed after that day: hills where valleys used to be, streams flowing the opposite direction from before, and entire new veins of gemstones opened up.
There are even stories that tables shook and teacups rattled as far away as Canterlot.
----------
Pinkie bounced a few times before coming to rest. She lay there, in the middle of a shallow crater that used to be a grassy field. The nearest Ponyville houses were visible just over the rim.
"That was fun!" Pinkie shouted. "Let's do that again, Flitter!"
Naturally, there was no answer from Flitter.
"Flitter? Hey, Flitter!" Pinkie tried to look around. But with her head sunken into her own body fat, turning her neck even an inch proved impossible. "Huh? Flitter, where are you?" Then her face lit up. "Oh, I know where you're hiding!"
Pinkie closed her eyes and grunted. Then, through some means known only to Pinkie--some obscure contortion of muscles under her tons of body fat--she rolled over, onto her back. When her mountainous belly faced the sky, it exposed a lilac-colored patch in the shape of a pony, utterly miniscule against Pinkie's vastness. Flitter, now flat as a sheet of paper, was stuck tightly to that titanic gut.
She blinked a few times. Then a sudden ripple of stomach fat shook her into the air, where Flitter freely fluttered like a flag with no flagpole. But before the breeze could carry her too far away, Pinkie caught her--wrapping her strangely prehensile mane around one flattened forehoof.
"What were you doing under there, silly?" Pinkie asked her pancaked friend.
Flitter still couldn't answer, her pupils bouncing around inside her two-dimensional eyes.
Pinkie rolled back over onto her belly, and Flitter flapped helplessly in her mane's grip. Once she was upright again, Pinkie continued, "Wow, that spell's even more powerful than Twilight said. It wasn't supposed to make you this skinny!"
Flitter's eyes finally straightened out. She flashed a wry smile at Pinkie.
"But don't you worry one bit! Auntie Pinkie Pie knows just how to fix this..." Then Pinkie opened her mouth and took a deep breath.
Flitter arched an eyebrow in silent confusion. But when Pinkie's mane wrapped around her neck, and brought their faces closer together, realization dawned. Flitter's eyes widened, and she tried to flail her legs--but in their flattened state, all they could do was flop ineffectually.
Pinkie closed her eyes, clamped her lips against Flitter's one more time, and blew.
First, Flitter's head puffed up, regaining its third dimension in just a few seconds. Her torso and rump soon followed--then her legs, one by one, and finally her wings. Soon enough, Flitter was back to her normal shape.
But Pinkie kept blowing. And for the third time this week, Flitter felt the first stings of her body's stretching to accommodate Pinkie's in-rushing breath--as her torso surpassed its normal diameter and continued inflating. "Nnnmm! Nrrrmm!" Flitter tried to protest, through cheeks puffing up big as baseballs--her voice muffled by soft pink lips pumping yet more warm air into her. Her backside squeaked almost as loud as her voice, as her inflating rump cheeks rubbed together like a pair of party balloons. Flitter kicked her legs and beat her wings, while her torso swelled to twice its usual size, and then beyond.
Several more lungfuls of Pinkie's breath rushed down Flitter's throat. Her body was already large enough to fit two or three beach balls inside, and still it inflated even more. She flapped frantically, trying to pull herself away from Pinkie--but the curly, pink mane held her tightly against Pinkie's lips, ensuring no air escaped. Flitter clapped her forehooves against the pink behemoth and shoved with all her strength, but her legs sank halfway into Pinkie's flab; her futile struggling just made Pinkie jiggle and wobble as she pumped even more air into Flitter.
"Nrrrrmmmm!" As Flitter protested in vain, a blush spread across her cheeks, now soccer ball-sized. The air from Pinkie filled every cubic inch of Flitter's expanding body--adding more cubic inches to her by the second--and spread a surprisingly pleasant warmth from her head to her hooves to the tips of her feathers. It was as if the feeling of Pinkie's kiss had infused Flitter's entire being.
And along with that kiss, another familiar sensation filled Flitter's hind legs, as more and more air rushed into them. Soon enough--Fwoomp! Fwoomp!--those legs swelled up twice as thick and stuck straight out from her haunches. "Hhrrm! Nrrrrmm!" Flitter flailed her forelegs for a few seconds longer, her hooves beating against Pinkie's flabby chest, squishing into its softness and sending ripples across that mountainous body. And then the same stiffness from Flitter's hind legs spread to her front ones: Fwoomp! Her left leg inflated and then--Fwoomp!--her right soon followed. Her wings flapped one last time before trembling, then--Fwoomp! Fwoomp! Fwoomp!--they also stuck straight out, her individual feathers inflating one-by-one. Fwoomp! Fwoomp! Fwoomp!
Then, with two softer fwoomps, Flitter's ears poofed up--forming small, pointy balloons on the sides of her head. And she whimpered, waggling her puffy limbs the few inches they could still move--already, they were sinking into her swollen shoulders and haunches. Her whole body was filling with air; her shoulders, chest, and back were all rounding out. All the while, her body ballooned larger and larger, her diameter growing to three times her normal height, and then right past it.
And still Pinkie kept blowing, showing off a lung capacity that would have been downright impossible for any other pony. Whole cubic yards of Pinkie's breath rushed into Flitter, filling the pegasus to sizes that brought back unpleasant memories--five times her old height and beyond. Her sides and belly swelled outward, inch after inch, foot after foot. Her torso bulged out so far, it began to swallow her neck; her inflating withers squeaked as they brushed against the back of her puffy cheeks. Her wings squeaked as well, the feathers brushing against each other as they grew into long, oval balloons.
Flitter's entire body grew more spherical as she inflated to seven times her old height, then even larger. Shoulders, haunches, and rump: all were slowly merging with the huge balloon of her torso. Her puffed-up legs were sunken halfway into her bloating sides. Her neck had been swallowed completely, and now Flitter's torso bulged over her head and around her cheeks in its continued expansion. Only her wings were spared from this assimilation; they bulged out further and further as yet more air rushed into them.
Flitter's eyes widened even further as her cheeks--each puffed up larger than her head--squished inward, squeezed as her own torso bulged around them in its relentless growth. "Nmmmmmm!" she cried, but the rest of her body nearly drowned out her voice. Her inflated legs squeaked as they sank to their hooves into her sides, all the while frantically wiggling as far as that ballooning torso would let them. Her wings squeaked even louder: the individual feathers brushed against each other as they filled with more and more air, inexorably swelling into thicker, rounder balloons. And from their place atop the curve of Flitter's back, those puffy wings wobbled further with even the slightest breeze.
More and more, Pinkie blew--relentlessly pumping up Flitter, with no end in sight. The balloon that had once been a pegasus swelled to nine times her old height, then surged beyond. The dragonflies of her cutie mark were as large as adult ponies, stretching farther along the massive curves that had been her haunches. Her hooves disappeared completely into her ballooning torso, each squeaking one last time as her sides bulged completely around them. Above, even her smallest feathers were swollen enough to contain a stallion comfortably, and still her wings inflated even larger. Below, her belly expanded far enough to sidle up to the front of Pinkie's mammoth gut--then press into that pink flab with its continued growth. Pinkie jiggled and wobbled at the touch, and kept breathing more and more air into Flitter.
"Nrrrrrrrmmm!" Flitter was a lilac blimp now, almost as mind-bogglingly massive as the pink land-whale inflating her. Her overstretched body was nearly spherical, with only four infolded divots on her sides to mark where she'd once had legs. Her head was over halfway swallowed by the swollen curves that had once been her withers. Her wings towered in the air, wobbling back and forth as those feathers swelled even thicker and blunter. Every uncountable square inch of Flitter squeaked and creaked, as she stretched farther and farther to contain the endless volume of Pinkie's breath, filling her larger and larger. "Nrrmmmmmm!"
And then, finally, Pinkie stopped. She closed her lips and released her mane-grip on Flitter. The pegasus-turned-blimp--larger than a two-story house, with wings inflated so large they nearly touched the foundation of her own cloud-home--just stared back with dazed eyes. For a few seconds, she lazily bounced backwards, away from Pinkie. Then she opened her mouth.
"Pbtpbptbtbtbtpbt!" Flitter shot backwards, then turned and spun in the air--spewing and sputtering all the while from the air rushing out her lips. She zoomed and whirled; she twisted and twirled; she pulled mad loop-de-loops as her rapid deflation propelled her through the sky. As she shrank closer to her normal size, she turned back towards Pinkie.
"Pbtpbptbtbtbt--Ooomph!" Flitter crashed into a slope and stuck there--a very soft, squishy slope. "Uugh, stop the cart. I wanna get off..." she muttered, massaging her head with her forehooves. Then she paused, shook her head, and felt around her own face more intently. She felt nothing out of the ordinary: no chubby cheeks, no double chin, no inflated ears. Flitter looked intently at her forelegs, and they were normal, too: no air inside them, no sleeves of fat around them. Flapping her wings confirmed that she once more had thin feathers to slice the air, not bulbous feathers full of air. And her belly... actually still had a bit of chub. It was just enough of a paunch for her hooves to squish into. Likewise, her hips were a little wider, and her rump a little softer, than they'd been before the whipped cream incident. But it wasn't anything Flitter couldn't fix with a bit of diet and exercise. Thankfulness--the genuine article, not thankfulness under duress--swelled up within Flitter's no-longer-swollen chest.
"Oh my gosh, Pinkie, it feels so good to be back to my right size again!" Then Flitter glanced around, finally taking in exactly where she was. From her perch on this round hillside, Flitter was higher than the roofs of the nearest houses. The hill itself was remarkably soft; her backside squished in several inches where she sat. She was in the middle of a baby-blue patch stretching hundreds of feet in every direction, surrounded by a vast field of pink: a party balloon cutie mark, stretched to the size of a hot-air balloon. "Oh, Pinkie..."
Flitter launched into the air--Pinkie's gigantic haunch jiggling at her takeoff--and flew to the other side of the chub mountain. There, she found the nook where Pinkie's head had sunk about two feet into her own body fat. Fortunately, Pinkie's enormously chubby cheeks pushed back against the encroaching flab, and stopped it from closing completely over her head.
"Pinkie!" Flitter called, as she landed on the floor formed by the front of Pinkie's belly.
"Flitter!" Pinkie replied. "Are you okay? Did it work?"
"Am I okay?" Flitter's hind legs gave out, dropping her to a sitting position--the impact sending ripples through PInkie. "Am I okay? What about you, Pinkie? You're... you're..."
"Uh, pink?" Pinkie suggested.
"You're huge! Beyond huge!" Flitter spread her forelegs, as if trying to encompass all of her friend's immensity. "Pinkie, they'll need to invent new words to describe how fat you are!"
Pinkie's face lit up. "How about gigafat? Or maybe jumbo chumbo? Thick, but spelled with three C's? Oh! Oh! I've got it! Super-chubby-fattylicious-extra-adiposious!"
"You're crazy." Flitter snorted. "Did you knowbeforehoof that the spell would do this to you?"
Pinkie rolled her eyes. "Pssh, yeah, of course."
"You're crazy. And I think you deserve a hug."
"Aw, thanks!"
Flitter dropped to her belly and crawled forward, into the pink cave. Pinkie's cheeks were far too wide for Flitter to possibly wrap her forelegs around them both, so instead she tried to reach under, to Pinkie's neck. She pushed her forehooves once again into the squishy crevice between Pinkie's head and the encroaching fat of her bloated torso. As Flitter reached deeper, Pinkie wobbled at the movement and giggled several times.
Eventually, Flitter's legs were submerged up to the shoulders, and her head was squished into Pinkie's right cheek. "Uh, Pinkie? I can't quite reach."
"That's alright!" Pinkie chirped. "This still feels nice."
Of course, Pinkie was immobilized, too encased in her own fat to possibly hug back. But her blubber embraced Flitter all on its own--her cheeks and withers squeezing around Flitter's forelegs, and her belly fat allowing the rest of Flitter to sink in a few inches--and that was almost like a hug.
"Yeah," Flitter said, nuzzling Pinkie's enormous cheek, like an oversized pillow. "This is nice."
They stayed like that for a short while.
Eventually, Flitter broke the silence. "So, Pinkie... You're huge now. Do you have a plan to get back to normal, or are you just gonna stay this fat forever?"
Pinkie beamed. "Oh, that's easy! My metabolism is crazy. I should be able to walk again in two months or so."
Flitter wore a sly grin, even though Pinkie couldn't see it. "Oh. That long, huh?" She pulled one foreleg free and leaned harder into that huge cheek, until she felt Pinkie's chub push back. "Well, I was thinking maybe I could help you with that, Pinkie. I don't think I can help you 'budge this pudge,' but for the next two months I could help you do everything else that needs doing."
"Ooooh! Everything else?"
"Oh, you know." Flitter grabbed as much cheek fat as she could between her forelegs and squeezed, resting her head atop the impromptu pillow of Pinkie chub. "Everything you can't do yourself because you're--what was the phrase?--'a big, cute, squishy, round, cute ball of chubby-chub!'" Flitter let go, and as Pinkie's face wobbled against her, she traced small circles in that cheek fur with one hoof. "I can set up the gramophone when you want to listen to music. I can read aloud for you when you want a good book. I can help bring your food when it's dinner time. And when it's shower time--" Flitter leaned into that cheek again and lowered her voice, "--I can rinse you off and scrub down every last inch of your huge, cute body. So? How does that sound?"
Pinkie blinked. "You said 'cute' a bunch. Are you flirting with me?"
"Yes! Yes, I am." Flitter pulled away, then sat down directly in front of Pinkie--her slightly chubby rump sinking once more into the exponentially larger belly below. "You made me feel things, Pinkie. Things I don't really get, yet, but I'd like to see where this goes. Besides, I still owe you some good cuddles. And also I'm curious about whether we can kiss without one of us blowing up like a balloon."
Pinkie smiled, and even that simple motion made her oversized cheeks jiggle. "You make a very convincing case. Let's do it."
"Thanks." Flitter gave another quick nuzzle to Pinkie's right cheek, then pulled back. She lifted off, hovering a few feet in front of Pinkie. "First things first, we need to get you home."
Her eyes travelled up and down Pinkie's gigantic form, and she added, "I have no idea how to do that." |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | pre | "Mom and Dad. It seems like Princess Celestia informed them about my investigation... They are not quite happy about it," Twilight replied and kept on reading.
"We are your parents, Twilight! We are worried about you! What are we supposed to think when you act like this? It is one thing that you could not tell us about Spike in time because you were so depressed about his death. But why in Equestria has it to be your mentor who tells us about your dangerous activities? Please respond as soon as possible!
Signed, your parents."
"Yep... she told them..." the purple mare finished.
After she rolled the scroll back together and stored it in one of her saddle bags by magic, Twilight made a fresh scroll, quill and traveling inkpot levitate in front of her face.
Dear Mom and Dad,
I'm sorry you had to learn it that way. I was afraid you would get mad at me. But please, you have to understand. I changed in the last few years. I saw a few pretty bad things and I'm not even allowed to talk about most of them to you. I'm aware how my actions look like, but I have no other option. I must do this, despite my organ damage. Please understand.
Your daughter, Twilight.
As soon as she finished the letter, she turned it into magical smoke and sent it on its way. She already knew that this reply would not be enough.
"I am sure they are just worried about you, darling," Rarity commented.
"Yes, they are. But they do have a point... I'm not writing to them or seeing them very often. I can imagine what kind of a shock it must have been for them to hear what has happened to me... Anyway, back to topic. We better go some place where we are undisturbed," Twilight spoke and started walking. ---
A week had passed by and another nighttime began in Baltimare. Compared to how busy the city was during the day, it was rather peaceful at night. Barely anypony was still outside. It seemed like Fluttershy was the only one walking through the dark back streets of the city.
So far, the investigation wasn't going very well. Even though Fluttershy taught them all she knew about sneaking around and spying on ponies at great length, they just couldn't get any useful information. This frustrated Twilight so much that Fluttershy volunteered to go out tonight for an extra round.
She hoped that the ponies they were looking for would rather use the dark hours to meet up than the daytime. But it seemed like Baltimare and Ponyville both had the complete inactivity of the citizens during the night in common.
After a while, Fluttershy decided to stop and sit down in the shadow of a sculpture. Her glance fell down to the heart pin on her cloak and slowly, she started sinking into memories again. Remembering the happy times she used to have had become her favorite thing to do when she was not busy with any tasks. She really missed her old life, free from any worries. Her old home in that peaceful cottage a bit secluded from Ponyville.
But mostly, she missed her beloved one. Life just wasn't the same anymore without him. Even though three years had passed since his death, she still didn't get used to the thought that she would never see him again. She didn't want to either. The memories and lessons of Obsidian Shards were all that kept her going. At times, she thought that, if he would have never come into her life, she would not have made it.
Yet, all had changed. Now she was here in Baltimare, as a reaper, trying to help her friends chasing after something which none of them even knew what it actually was. Fluttershy started wondering if all of this made even any sense.
Suddenly, the yellow mare saw something in the corner of her eye. As she turned her head, she was looking directly at a gray figure. The same one she saw in Ponyville. Though she could not clearly say what it was. It was just too far away, but seemed to be about the size of a pony and looking directly at her. A moment later, the gray figure went behind a corner.
Fluttershy decided to get up again and followed the figure. But after she stepped around the corner, she had to realize it had vanished. She was about to leave when she heard hoof steps ahead of her. So she quickly hid herself in the darkness again.
After a few seconds, she spotted a mare coming from the left corner ahead, nervously looking around and then walking to the right, down another street.
This made Fluttershy suspicious. Why was she so nervous? Did she have anything to hide? The yellow mare decided that it might be worth it to follow.
She lifted up into the air and carefully landed on the roof of a nearby building. Trying to make as little noise as possible, she kept flying from building to building, making sure to constantly stay out of the mare's range of sight. Finally, the mare reached a small warehouse close to the harbor, featuring no windows and thick stone walls.
The mare knocked four times on the only door of the warehouse. A few seconds later, the door opened by a narrow gap. Fluttershy could hear the mare whispering, but it was too quiet for her to understand. So she landed back on the ground behind the warehouse, hiding in its shadow.
The yellow mare went around the corner and came as close to the mare as she could get. Then, she carefully laid down to the ground and listened.
"So Cinnamon has not returned, yet?" a female voice asked.
"No... Gosh, that fool! I can't believe she went off all by herself! She wasn't even halfway done in her training! She still can't control the blessing! And worst of all: She took her robe with her! What was she thinking?!" the mare Fluttershy had been following spoke in frustration.
"You know how impatient she was. Actually, I can understand her. After that damn alicorn tyrant Celestia sentenced her father to death, I wouldn't have wanted to just sit around and wait for an order in her position either," the other voice commented.
"Still, she was anything but ready for an assault mission! She doesn't even know how to fight! What if she failed? What if she busted us? It hasn't even been a month since we extended from Trottingham to here and we might already be in trouble!" the mare worried.
"Relax. Don't worry. Even if she failed to kill Twilight Sparkle, nopony has any idea about us. We are too well hidden and too well organized. Just go by the plan. Soon, our time to rise will come anyway," the other mare reinsured, causing the first one to sigh in relief.
"You are right... There's nothing to be worried about. If Cinnamon died, then she did in honor of Nightmare Moon. If not, we will kill her anyway, since she didn't follow the rules. But for now, I think it's time you go home. You look tired," she spoke.
"Yeah... it's been a pretty long watch shift. Good night," the other voice agreed.
Fluttershy could hear the door open and the clattering of two sets of hooves. Then the door closed and locked again while she heard one of the mares walking into the distance.
The yellow mare had heard enough. This was the evidence they had been looking for. She needed to inform her friends about this discovery immediately.
After she snuck back around the corner, Fluttershy lifted into the air and flew away from the warehouse in a large bow to prevent any chance to be discovered. ---
On the next morning, Twilight Sparkle and her friends met up behind a corner close to the warehouse Fluttershy had been observing.
"So this is the building?" the purple mare whispered while glancing around the corner.
A dark blue earth pony stallion was standing in front of the door, constantly looking around with a serious expression. He seemed to be guarding the building.
"Yes. The two mares last night said they had been planning the assault on you and that they came here from Trottingham not long ago," Fluttershy confirmed.
"Well, now we know who's responsible for that. But what are we gonna do next y'all?" Applejack wondered.
"I'm not sure... but I am very curious about what they are hiding in there," Twilight commented.
"Perhaps I should walk up to that guard and let my charms do their magic. I might be able to convince him to let us enter," Rarity suggested.
"The last thing we want right now is for them to know our faces. The moment we lose our anonymity is the moment our investigation will become a lot more difficult. I strongly suggest we should leave this instant," Crystal spoke.
"We are so close to solving this! All answers are just in front of us! We can't leave now!" Twilight disagreed.
"No, Twilight. She is right. If they spot us now, we can forget about ever getting in there. I think it would be better to just observe the warehouse for a few days and see if we can find out more from the outside," Fluttershy recommended.
"That sounds reasonable. Don't 'cha worry, Twi. We'll get 'em eventually. We shouldn't rush it now that we are that close," Applejack agreed.
"Alright..." the purple mare spoke with a sigh. "I need to take my medicine anyway. Let's go back and work out a plan."
The group turned around and went back on the main street. But while they were walking, they came across a pink unicorn mare. She acted as if she was working for a shipment company, facing several wooden crates and making notes on a clipboard. But in point of fact, she was observing the group in the corner of her eye.
As soon as they went out of sight, the mare placed the clipboard aside and started sneaking away. Several minutes later, she arrived at the warehouse and went to the blue stallion.
"What are you doing here?! Are you crazy?! Get back on your position before anypony spots us!" the stallion protested.
"I saw something... a group of ponies, guarded by two reapers at once," the mare started.
"That's nothing new. We see that happen every once in a while," the stallion commented.
"I know, but those weren't ordinary ponies. One was a white unicorn mare with blue mane who had a strange nose and bite marks on her neck. The other was an orange earth pony mare wearing a cowboy hat who had a missing right front leg. And most importantly, they were lead by a purple unicorn mare," the pink mare continued.
"Hang on... Are you saying that..." the blue stallion spoke.
"Yep. I'm pretty sure those were the 'keepers of harmony'," the mare finished.
"How in the name of Nightmare Moon can they be here?!" the stallion wondered in shock.
"That's pretty obvious. Cinnamon failed. I knew that fool would cause us some trouble eventually," the mare spoke in a frustrated tone.
"Damn... Alright. I guess we need to abandon Baltimare then. Inform the others. We need to get this done in less than half an hour," the stallion ordered.
The pink mare instantly turned around and started running while he went inside the warehouse and locked the door.
"My lords, we have a problem," he spoke. ---
The keepers of harmony had been observing the warehouse for three days now. No matter when Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom came, they never managed to see a pony around the building anymore. At first, they thought that this was just part of their routine. But now, they started getting suspicious. At midnight of the third day, the group decided it was worth the risk to approach.
It was Rarity who first went up to the door of the warehouse and knocked at it four times. She waited a moment, but nothing happened.
"Hellooo! Anypony home?" she called in a friendly tone.
Again, she got no response. As Rarity decided to knock again, she realized that the door wasn't locked. She carefully opened it and glanced inside. Then, she turned around to the group.
"Um... Twilight... You may want to see this..." she spoke.
Twilight immediately ran over and opened the door.
"What?! No! No, no, no! It's empty! Nopony is here! I was so close.... Shoot!" the purple mare started shouting.
"Calm down, darling! Somepony might still be around and watching us!" Rarity worried.
"Calm down? Calm down?! How am I supposed to calm down when the answer to all our questions just vanished! I knew we should have gone straight for it! I knew it!" Twilight kept shouting.
"I still stick to what I have said. Even though they got away, revealing ourselves would have been a very bad move," Crystal commented while approaching the purple mare.
"But the fact that they are gone now means they might have noticed us anyway! I mean, they don't just disappear like that for no reason! Especially when they just got started with whatever they are doing!" Twilight countered.
"Better safe than sorry, Sugarcube. Don't 'cha worry. This is bigger than we thought anyway. They came from Trottingham, remember? Ah am pretty sure that we can find something over there, too," Applejack commented.
"She's right, Twilight. Nothing is lost, yet. In fact, we even learned something from this: They are very careful and organized. We are dealing with a well prepared group here," Fluttershy agreed.
"I... guess that's true. Sorry I snapped like that. This all just means a lot to me. I really hoped to solve this mystery quickly," Twilight apologized.
"It's fine, darling. We fully understand. Don't worry. You got our support, no matter what," Rarity spoke.
"Thank you... Well... Seeing that there's nothing else to do here anymore, I guess we should start heading to Trottingham tomorrow," the purple mare commented.
"Sounds good to me. No reason to give up so soon! We're just gettin' started!" Applejack agreed.
Twilight glanced inside the warehouse once more to make sure they would not miss any clues, but it was entirely cleaned out. With a sigh, she finally closed the door again and started walking, followed by the rest of the group. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | The Loophole | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 5: The Loophole
The candle was nearly burnt down and its fire started to become weak when Princess Celestia finally finished the last letter for tonight. As so often, she spent several hours of the night-time lying on a large pillow on the balcony of the highest tower of Canterlot Castle, accompanied by her sister Luna.
"The times have really changed, have they not?" the dark demi-goddess asked.
"Yes... it is ironic. In the peaceful era of Equestria, we never had a chance to be together like this... I should have started involving the ponies in national management tasks much sooner. Perhaps it would have never come this far then..." Celestia spoke lowly.
"Let the past be the past, sister. It can not be undone, but the future can still be changed. I hold no grudge against you either. The way things currently are for me is all I ever wanted. I get to meet ponies and be with you every night. Having you back as my sister makes me happier than I can express," Luna replied.
"I have seen so much blood, Luna... So much destruction and violence. So much desperation... It just never stops. Now, even Twilight Sparkle had been nearly killed, even though she is under my protection..." the bright demi-goddess kept speaking.
"Twilight Sparkle can take care of herself. You know that. She is the mightiest mortal pony that has ever lived and if that was not enough already, she has very capable friends and is under constant protection of two mighty reapers at once. You need not worry about her," her sister commented.
"She should not even feel the need to protect herself. Neither should she feel the need to help me fight insane ponies. Nopony should. All I ever longed for was to create a land of peace and harmony. But instead, Equestria became filled with monsters, demons, violent mad subjects and curses..." Celestia replied.
"The times have already changed and they will keep changing. There will be happier times coming. One day, we will complete the task we are working for more than a thousand years now. We will save Equestria and defeat Nightmare Moon once and for all. Do not doubt, sister," Luna motivated.
"Thank you... After all the support I have given others, it really feels good to receive some. I honestly would not know what to do anymore if it weren't for you. These one thousand years without you were just so horrible..." the bright demi-goddess spoke.
"I am back now and I will remain by your side until the end of all things. We are sisters and always will be, no matter what," the Princess of the Night assured with a smile.
Celestia smiled back, closed her eyes and confirmed with a nod. Then they both turned their focus down to Canterlot. Minutes passed by until a scroll suddenly appeared next to the bright demi-goddess, which she immediately unrolled.
"Oh no..." the Princess of the Sun commented in a sad and disappointed tone after reading.
"What is the matter?" Luna wondered.
"Twilight Sparkle's investigation team discovered that the mare who tried to assault her was a member of a bigger organization of Maledictum Insania affected subjects," Celestia replied.
"Really? Insane ponies can organize themselves?" the dark demi-goddess asked in confusion.
"Yes, though it is rare. They usually are not capable of thinking logically enough to hide themselves for long or perform any important actions. Most of the time, these organizations destroy themselves, as their members attack each other," Celestia replied.
"What does Twilight Sparkle say about this organization?" Luna wanted to know.
"She is not sure what to think of them, yet. Although the lower ranked members seem to be very irrational and carelessly give out information, it seems like the leading positions are very well organized. They quickly discovered the hideout of this group in Baltimare by just tracking down individual members. But as soon as the insane subjects noticed they were being observed, they vanished from the city," the Princess of the Sun answered.
"This is no good... If they are this careful, it will be difficult to root them out. What does Twilight Sparkle plan to do next?" Luna asked.
"She wrote that they have evidence this group came from Trottingham, so they will head there next," Celestia replied.
"I think it would support them if we inform the reapers stationed in Trottingham," the dark demi-goddess suggested.
"I agree. I will write to them right away. Anyway, it has been a long night for me, Luna. See you tomorrow," Celestia spoke.
"Good night, my sister," Luna replied. ---
It was close to sundown when the train finally arrived in Trottingham. Applejack was the first to leave, her face instantly showing a smile.
"Now that's more like it! Still a big city, but with plenty o' trees around! Ah bet they have a lot of gardeners employed around here!" she commented.
"Oh my. This really is a pretty town! Perhaps I should travel around Equestria more often!" Twilight agreed as soon as she left the train herself.
"Yes. This is certainly a nice place. I bet I can get the animals living around here to help us," Fluttershy suggested.
"A very good idea, apprentice. Though we better not talk about important things loudly in the public. Somepony might be spying on us," Crystal added quietly while leaving the train.
"Hm, but I certainly think this place needs a little bit more... style. I barely see anypony walking around in a decent dress. Perhaps I should create a fashion line specifically for Trottingham. I bet I can make plenty of new customers here!" Rarity spoke.
"Hehe. I'm likin' this side of you, Sugarcube. Glad to see you finally get over your obsession of details and start thinkin' practically," Applejack commented with a lightly mocking expression.
"Now what do you mean by that?!" Rarity responded, mildly scandalized.
"Ah it's nothin' big. Just this rodeo pony here knows a lil' bit more about bein' competitive," Applejack kept going.
"Why you!" the fashion diva started.
"Girls! Keep it serious! We are here on important tasks!" Twilight spoke to snap them out of it.
"So how should we get started?" Fluttershy wondered.
"I think asking the animals is a good idea, Fluttershy. Let's see what they-" the purple mare started, but found herself interrupted by a tap on the shoulder, coming from Crystal. "What is it?"
The elder reaper mare did not reply. Instead she made a gesture telling them to be quiet and minimally tilted her head over to the shadow of a nearby building. As the group looked over there, they saw another reaper, so well hidden that they would not have noticed him if the light blue mare had not informed them about his presence. He was looking at the group and carefully beckoned them over.
They instantly became silent and calmly started walking over to the reaper, trying not to look around too much to prevent arousing suspicion. The reaper started retreating around the corner of a backstreet, signaling them to follow. Finally, as the group met up with the reaper at a remote impasse, he removed the hood from his head and bowed down to the mares.
"It is an honor to meet you, keepers of harmony. Mistress Celestia informed me about your journey and ordered me to support you," he spoke quietly.
"Now that is very useful. We were just thinking about how to start gathering information around here. Did you or the other reapers protecting this place notice anything suspicious?" Twilight asked in the same low tone.
"Yes. We do not know how, but ponies keep disappearing at night. Who- or whatever causes this to happen, it must be very skilled. We just can not track it down," the reaper stallion replied.
"That sounds like it would be a demon," Fluttershy commented.
"No. It is definitely not a demon, otherwise we would sense it. But we doubt it is a pony either," the stallion answered.
"What makes you think that?" Crystal wondered.
"I am afraid to say, but as a matter of fact, this abductor is also kidnapping reapers. Five of us were originally stationed in this city. Only one other and me are left. We have not seen the missing three in weeks," he replied.
"Kidnapping reapers?! What in Equestria would be able of doin' that if it's not a demon?" Applejack wondered.
"Twilight... Do you think it has something to do with the ponies we are tracking down?" Rarity added.
"I have no idea, but this all is very suspicious. Something is definitely going on in this town," Twilight replied, then turned back over to the reaper stallion. "Is there anything else you can tell us?"
"I am very sorry to disappoint you, keeper of magic. But that is all we know," he replied.
"Well at least we have a clue. Better than nothing. Thanks for the help. Let us know when you or the other reaper notice anything," Twilight thanked him.
"We certainly will. Valē," he replied and turned over to Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom. "Purity and sacrifice for Equestria."
"Purity and sacrifice," both replied at the same time.
While the reaper stallion snuck away, the group turned around and went back on the main street.
"Kidnapping reapers... What do you think this means? What do they want with them?" Rarity whispered.
"I can not say I have heard of something like this happening ever before," Crystal replied. "Insane ponies and the undead fear us. Demons avoid us. Monsters do not even get a chance to come anywhere close to a city of this size. Frankly, I am puzzled."
"But if this abductor is so skilled that it can handle reapers, it would definitely not be a good idea to wander around alone," Fluttershy analyzed.
"You are right. If we go around, we should always be in groups of at least two. For now, we should look for a place we can retreat to and observe Trottingham for a few days," Twilight suggested.
The group nodded in agreement and started looking for a cheap hotel. ---
Two unsuccessful days of observation later, Crystal and Fluttershy found themselves patrolling through the backstreets of Trottingham together at night. This pattern started to get repetitive to all members of the group. The regular ways of observation and gathering information just didn't seem to work on these ponies. Somehow, it felt like they precisely knew how to dodge the reapers.
"Any updates from the animals?" Crystal asked in a whispering tone.
"Sadly no. This is so strange. How can not even birds and squirrels notice anything?" Fluttershy whispered back.
"A whole organization of insane ponies. So well hidden that not even the animals can see them. It makes me wonder how long they have been around," the elder reaper mare spoke.
"You think they have been working together for a while now?" the yellow mare asked.
"At this point, this can very well be assumed," Crystal replied.
"Then how come they never acted before?" Fluttershy wanted to know.
"Perhaps they were just not ready. Think about it, apprentice: These ponies have set up operation centers in at least two bigger cities. For irrational beings, they are surprisingly well organized and their first publicly noticed slip-up was an assault on nopony less than the leader of the keepers of harmony. This knowledge is already enough to safely assume a conspiracy against our mistress," the light blue mare analyzed.
"That sounds dreadful. But I still don't understand how their knowledge about Nightmare Moon fits in all of this," Fluttershy commented.
"Neither do I. But the more we find out, the clearer it becomes that this must be stopped. We must track down the leaders of this organization and eliminate them, no matter what," Crystal spoke.
"It seems like it. I just hope we-" the yellow mare started before she suddenly became distracted and halted.
In a bit of distance in front of her was the gray figure again. This time, it was closer than before.
"Mentor... Do you see that?" Fluttershy asked.
"See what, apprentice?" Crystal asked back, trying to find what she was looking at.
"This... I think it's a pony. Gray. Nearly glowing. You can't see it?" the yellow mare wondered.
At this moment, the figure reached out something that looked like a front leg in Fluttershy's direction.
"No. I do not see anything that would fit your descr-" Crystal wanted to say, but suddenly found herself gagging on blood.
Fluttershy quickly turned around and saw a creature slicing a blade through the elder reaper's throat. Instinctively, Crystal grabbed the attacker and tossed it over her shoulder, disregarding the fact that she was bleeding out. Though it landed right back on its legs and started charging Fluttershy.
While she summoned her scythe, Crystal used her last strength to throw herself between the aggressor and her apprentice, holding it back just long enough for the yellow mare to start an attack.
As the blades kept swinging, Fluttershy had to realize that her enemy was very skilled. It could block and parry most of her attacks. There was no doubt that this had to be the abductor they had been warned about.
Every now and then, Fluttershy felt the blade slicing across her front legs and stabbing in her stomach. But ultimately, she was able to dodge an attack that brought the aggressor out of its balance. She used this moment to get behind it and hit her enemy in the back of its head with the end of her scythe handle.
The aggressor instantly fell to the ground, unconscious. Fluttershy as well sat down for a moment to breathe and recover. The cuts and stabs were burning a lot and she felt her warm blood running down her body. As she looked at herself, she realized that she was heavily bleeding. But she could not allow herself to pass out now. It would not take long before the attacker would wake up again and then, both her mentor and she would be in big trouble.
Now able to concentrate on something else than defending herself, Fluttershy finally got to realize that it indeed was a pony attacking her. A middle aged pegasus stallion, whose coat had the color of sandstone and a dark brown mane.
The yellow mare put all her strength together and got back up on her legs to look around. Again, the gray figure had disappeared. Instead of trying to look for it, Fluttershy went over to Crystal Blossom. She had bled dry by now. But as with all reapers, this would not be enough to truly kill her. Knowing this, she tried to shake her mentor awake again.
It took half a minute, but Crystal finally came back to her senses. The heavy loss of blood made it difficult for her to stand, but she forced herself back up as well and nodded to her apprentice. After that, both of them went over to the knocked out pegasus, picked him up and started limping back to their hideout. ---
Twilight, Applejack and Rarity were already sleeping when they heard knocking at the door of their hotel room. Twilight forced herself up and used her magic to unlock and open the door. Her sleepiness instantly became replaced with intense shock as she saw the two heavily injured mares enter, carrying another pony with them.
"Oh my gosh! What happened to you two?!" she shouted, waking up Applejack and Rarity, who as well instantly became wide awake and gasped at the sight presented to them.
"In the name of Celestia! Quick, Rarity! Get me the first aid!" the orange mare shouted.
Rarity already jumped out of her bed when she was stopped by Fluttershy raising her hoof.
"Don't worry... We are fine... It will heal up soon," she spoke in an exhausted tone.
"What about Crystal? Look at her throat! How come she survived that?" Rarity wondered.
Twilight opened her mouth in attempt to explain the situation, but she found herself unable to put her thoughts in words. It was now that she remembered she had been cursed to not reveal this secret four years ago. So instead, she turned her head over to Fluttershy. She understood without a word and nodded shortly.
"Girls. There are a few things about reapers that they haven't told you about, because they feared it would warn Pinkie... Pinkamena from her execution. The reaper curse makes it impossible for us to die by conventional means. We are immortal. No matter how badly we get injured, we do not turn into undead. As long as a reaper is well fed, it will recover from even the most lethal injuries," the yellow mare explained.
"But... uh... what? Then how did Obsidian die?" Applejack wanted to know.
"That is something I can explain. There are only two ways for a reaper to die. They either have to be devoured by a demon or be killed using a reaper scythe. Anyway, enough for that. What is going on now? Why are you hurt like this and what's with the stallion?" Twilight wondered.
"This pony here is the abductor we had been warned about. There is absolutely no doubt about that. He managed to sneak up on Crystal and slit her throat, then tried to disable me as well. I could only knock him unconscious by sheer luck, otherwise he would have kidnapped us like the other reapers," the yellow mare explained.
"And yer bringing him here?! Alive?! Are ya nuts, Sugarcube?!" Applejack shouted in disbelief.
"No, AJ. That's actually a good thing," Twilight disagreed.
"Darling! You can't be serious! Why in Equestria would it be a good thing to have such a dangerous pony right here?!" Rarity argued.
"Because now we can turn the game around. The kidnapper is now the hostage. We just need to tie him up well and constantly watch him. Then we can interrogate him and finally get some answers," the purple mare explained.
"Ah don't feel quite comfortable with that idea, Twilight. But if you say that's the right thing to do, I'll give him my strongest knot. He won't have a chance to get out of that one," Applejack spoke.
"Very well. Then let's get to it. Fluttershy, Crystal Blossom: I want you two to rest it for now and recover. You have already been through enough for tonight and we will need you at your full strength for this," Twilight ordered.
"Thank you..." Fluttershy spoke while Crystal nodded in understanding. Then they both helped each other to walk into the bathroom to wash the blood off. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Insight | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 6: Insight
It was another beautiful evening in Canterlot. The sun slowly set over the city, tinting all buildings in gold as two famous unicorns slowly walked through the streets: The much-loved high society celebrity Fancy Pants and his sidekick, the top model Fleur De Lis.
It was the usual time of the day where these two could be together without being surrounded by fans and friends. But while Fancy Pants had his head high and admired the evening beauty of Equestria's capital, Fleur kept looking at the ground. Finally, they both arrived at Fancy Pants' apartment.
"And I say! It wasn't before the incident with Miss Rarity's scars and nose that I found out she is actually a keeper of harmony! Can you imagine?" Fancy asked while he used his magic to open the door and stepped inside.
"Sounds unbelievable," Fleur replied, stepping in moments later.
"I instantly knew there was something special about these lovely friends of her's. Yet, it is hard to imagine such important ponies are barely recognized and were forgotten so fast! I took the liberty to do a little research on them and they actually saved Equestria multiple times from complete disaster!" the stallion celebrity spoke in fascination.
"That also sounds unbelievable," the top model kept commenting.
"Still, despite it all, they keep living normal lives! Such humble mares. I say, it is absolutely admirable!" Fancy stated while eyeing up his art collection and rearranging it with magic.
Fleur De Lis just stood nearby, not saying a word. Her eyes fell on a collection of professional photos featuring her and Fancy Pants. As he finished rearranging the drawings, he kept scrutinizing them for a moment, rubbing his chin with his right front hoof.
"She really is something extraordinary, is she not?" he suddenly commented.
"Who?" Fleur asked.
"Why, Rarity of course!" Fancy replied.
"Oh, yes. She is talented... generous... charming..." the unicorn model spoke, her voice getting lower and lower after each word.
"I say. Fleur, my dear. Are you okay? You have been worryingly quiet this evening," the unicorn stallion wondered.
"No, No. Don't you worry. I am quite alright," Fleur replied and threw a pose on the sofa.
"Well if you say so. But remember: If there is something bothering you, you can always come to me," Fancy Pants offered.
A minute of silence passed while he went to the kitchen and picked a bottle of high quality grape juice, pouring it into two crystal glass cups. This usually brought the smile back to his friend's face.
"You know, it has been years since I last spoke to her. Perhaps I should invite her over for a while. I would be very much interested in finding out more about this wonderful mare at a candlelight dinner," he kept speaking.
Suddenly, Fleur's eyes went wide open and moved over to Fancy Pants. Though she quickly had to put herself back together as he returned with two floating glass cups, handing one over to her.
"To good friends!" he spoke and took a sip.
"To good friends..." Fleur replied with a faked smile and started drinking herself.
The rest of the evening, Fancy Pants kept on speaking about his latest charity auction and the several hundred thousand bits he made with it, going to the Appleloosa expansion program. Though Fleur barely paid any attention.
As it started getting dark, Fleur De Lis left Fancy Pants' apartment and started walking home to her own. Her eyes constantly were stuck to the ground, sunken in thoughts with a sad expression on her face. But while she went through the darker streets of the capital city, she suddenly found a pony blocking her way. As Fleur rose her head, she could see a long red robe with three black claw marks on it. ---
"Dear Princess Celestia,
We have been interrogating the abductor for five days now without any progress. He completely refuses to cooperate and all we could get out of him so far were insults. I am starting to lose my patience with him. Sadly, that is all I can say about our progress. The reapers just can't find any traces. We will try getting information from him for one more day. After that, I would appreciate it if you could ready a convoy to take him into custody.
Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle."
As soon as she finished the letter, the purple mare dissolved it into magical smoke and sent it on its way. All of her friends were standing nearby and looking at her as she sighed in frustration and hung her head.
"Okay, girls. One more try. I'm really sick of this guy by now," Twilight spoke in a demotivated tone.
"You are not the only one, darling. I still can not believe he dared to call me filth," Rarity commented angrily.
"Yet we barely have any other option than to deal with him. If he is a member of the organization we are tracking down, he might be our only chance to find out more. We need to crack him open somehow," Crystal analyzed.
"I don't want to step down to his level, Crystal. But you are right. We really need to get him to speak. I already asked the princess for a convoy to get him out of here," Twilight replied.
"Well what are y'all waitin' for then? Let's get to it!" Applejack spoke and opened the door to their improvised interrogation room.
Since they had no better place to put this stallion, the group rented another room. Luckily, there were barely any tourists in Trottingham at this time of the year, so they could claim the room which was connected to theirs.
In order to ensure the stallion would not get any chance to escape, the keepers of harmony had moved all furniture to the walls, placing only a single chair in the middle of the room for the abductor to sit on. Furthermore, Twilight used her magic to enchant the chair, the rope which kept him tied and the walls of the room. No matter how much he struggled, he would not be able to move the chair or break the rope. No matter how loud he would get, no one would hear him.
But he never even attempted any of that. For days now, he just kept sitting there, hanging his head and waiting for the mares to return for yet another round of interrogation. Each time they entered, he just gave them a despise-filled glance without even lifting his head.
"Ok. Listen closely. This is your last chance to speak. You better use it," Twilight started.
"Hehe. You call this interrogating? Tieing me on a comfortable chair in the middle of a hotel, giving me food and water and letting me use the bathroom? No torture at all? You keepers are pathetic," he spoke mockingly.
"We are not like you! Be lucky you are being treated nicely!" Rarity spoke angrily.
"Right. You are not like me. If I would hold you hostage, the least thing I would do is make you look like that country cripple over there," he spoke, glancing over to Applejack.
"Why, you dirty little-" the orange mare started, approaching their hostage in order to beat him.
"No, AJ!" Twilight spoke and reached out her left front leg to stop her. "I already said I don't want to go down to his level! Look. We know what you have done. I am very close about to contact the royal guards. That would mean spending the rest of your life in a dungeon. Your only way out of this now is to finally answer our questions. Why did you attack the reapers? Where did you bring the ponies you kidnapped? Do you belong to an organization?"
"As if I would be afraid of the dungeons in Equestria! There is barely any difference between them and this hotel room! Just do me a favor and kill yourself, okay?" the abductor kept mocking.
The keepers of harmony sighed in frustration and hung their heads. It was useless. He just wouldn't speak, no matter what. They were about to give up on him when Fluttershy suddenly stepped forth.
"I really hoped I wouldn't have to go that far... But I guess I have no option..." she spoke while walking right in front of the pegasus stallion.
"Haha! Finally you are stepping up the game? What are you going to do with me? Kill me maybe? Or do you... Oh gosh... What is with your eyes? Oh my gosh! No! No! Stop it! Stop it!" he suddenly started yelling.
The group became puzzled. Fluttershy was just standing there, not doing a thing to him. Yet, he kept shifting around in his chair in complete panic. Then suddenly, it became clear to all of them what was happening right now.
"I won't stop unless you answer our questions," the yellow mare threatened.
"Okay! Okay! I will speak! Just please! Stop staring at me like this!" the stallion pleaded.
As Fluttershy broke the Stare and stepped aside, he instantly hung his head, panting and shaking in stress.
"Why didn't you do that sooner?" Twilight wanted to know.
"It is cruel, Twilight... I hate being cruel... By now, my Stare is very powerful. I can traumatize ponies if I overdo it..." she answered, turning her head away in shame.
"There are times where we cannot afford to be kind, apprentice," Crystal started, unfolding a bat wing over her. "But you certainly are going the right path. Cruelty can only bring more chaos, madness and suffering."
The group now refocused the still shaking stallion, staring at them in fear.
"So you are willing to speak now?" Twilight wondered.
"Yes... Yes, I will... I don't care if they kill me for that. I'd rather die than go through that a second time..." he spoke lowly.
"They?" the purple mare asked.
"They... You are right... I am a member of an organization..." the stallion spoke.
"What organization is that?" Applejack wanted to know.
"We... call ourselves the BloodClaw Cult..." he replied.
"The BloodClaw Cult?" Fluttershy asked.
"Yes..." the abductor answered.
"And what do you do?" Twilight wondered.
"We worship the true gods of Equestria... The demons and their queen, Nightmare Moon..." the pegasus stallion replied.
"You what?! Are you completely out of your minds?!" Rarity shouted in shock.
Now, the stallion seemed to be offended. He rose his head again and gave Rarity a glance of absolute hatred.
"The demon queen and her godly children are a million times more honest and true than your oh so beloved tyrant princess will ever be, you damn heretics!" he growled.
"How can you say such a thing? How can you be so blind? The demons are evil. All they want is to destroy the world," Fluttershy commented.
"No. You know who is truly blinded? You! You are all blinded by the light of this forsaken alicorn! I don't expect of any of you to understand, but your foolishness is what will kill all of you," the stallion spoke loudly.
"Okay. Enough of that," Twilight spoke. "Let's get back on track here. Why did you attack the reapers?"
"We need their blood..." he replied shortly.
"What for?" the purple mare wanted to know.
Now, the pegasus stallion became silent. Apparently, they were hitting an a lot bigger secret now, so he just hung his head.
"Do we need Fluttershy to give you the Stare again?" Twilight threatened.
"No! Anything but that!" he instantly shouted.
"Then answer my question: Why do you need reaper blood?" she asked anew.
"For... incarnation rituals..." the stallion replied, hesitating a lot.
"And what in tarnation does that mean?" Applejack wanted to know.
Again, the stallion remained silent.
"I think I have an idea... oh gosh I hope I'm wrong..." Twilight replied in worry.
All eyes focused on her while she stared at the stallion. Her mouth opened and two words escaped which she should not be able to form in front of him.
"Maledictum Insania," she spoke.
It took the group a moment to realize, but then they all became wide eyed and stared at the stallion in disbelief. He, though, just kept hanging his head.
All keepers of harmony had been cursed with the curse of secrets when they learned about this greatest of all secrets. This meant that, unless the pony they talk to already knew the secret, it would be impossible for them to put it in words. The fact that Twilight could speak it out could only mean one thing.
"Ya know about the curse of madness?!" Applejack shouted in shock.
"What you call a curse, we call a blessing. The ability to see the truth and gain unimaginable power through it," the stallion replied.
"How much do you know about it?" Crystal wanted to know.
"Everything. Absolutely everything. We know it is Nightmare Moon's gift to Equestria. We know it gives us enormous power. We know it saves ponies from death and we know that it is this blessing that allows worthy ponies to ascent into the godly ranks of demons. This is why we need reaper blood. It contains high concentrations of the blessing," he spoke calmly.
"It just blows my mind how wrong you are about everything!" Twilight commented while holding her head with both front legs. "It is not a blessing and there is certainly nothing good about it! It is this curse which causes all of Equestria to suffer!"
"And exactly that foolishness is what will kill all of you. Heretics... they never understand," the stallion replied.
"But... You... This..." the purple mare tried to speak.
Now, Crystal Blossom went over to Twilight and placed a front hoof on her shoulder to calm her down. As soon as she had herself under control again, the reaper mare's eyes turned to their hostage.
"Where do you meet?" she asked.
"I... I can't tell you..." he spoke.
"I guess you need another Stare then," Fluttershy commented.
"Ugh! Okay! Our church here in Trottingham is a newly built house downtown! But even if you can find it, there is no chance for you to get in!" the stallion answered.
"Why?" Crystal wanted to know.
"We guard our churches with our lives! No heretic is allowed on our holy grounds! If you try to get in, they will kill you. Even if you sent a whole army, you will not be able to find it! We can move our churches faster than Celestia can put together her troops!" he replied.
"We already witnessed that. But still, there must be a gap in your security. A way to enter without getting seen. You better answer this question, or I will tell Fluttershy to stare at you for the next hour!" Twilight spoke, already starting to get very angry at the cult.
"Oh gosh... I'm so dead... F-fine... The house is three stories tall, but we only use and guard the first floor and the basement... There is a manual dinner lift... barely wide and tall enough for a pony to fit in... It is meant to transport food and clothing, but we do not use it..." the stallion explained.
"Does it go to the top floor and reach all the way down to the basement?" Crystal wanted to know.
"Y... Yes..." he replied.
"Good. Now give us the address of this church," Twilight insisted.
"Puddinghead Ave 27... A dark blue house with hedge fencing around it... Forgive me, Nightmare Moon..." he answered.
"Finally," the purple mare commented and started casting a sleep spell. Moments later, their hostage was knocked out.
"I can't believe it... This is so awful... They know everything. Just how could this happen?" Fluttershy wondered.
"I don't know, but this is a catastrophe. A demon worshipping cult... I can't believe such a thing exists..." Twilight replied.
"I completely agree. It is beyond me how they can know this greatest of all state secrets. If this knowledge becomes public, it will lead to mass hysteria. Furthermore, if the BloodClaw Cult keeps growing, we have to seriously worry about the security of the entire land. We must act instantly, or the results could be devastating," Crystal added.
"But how are we going to stop this cult? What are we going to do?" Rarity wondered.
"Even though we finally got some answers, we are still just scratching on the surface. We need to investigate deeper into the BloodClaw Cult. The only way I can see how we would be able to do that would be by sneaking into this church and spying on them," Twilight suggested.
"That sounds mighty dangerous, Sugarcube," Applejack worried.
"I know, but there is no other way. We know who we are dealing with now, but we don't know anything about the way they organize. This cultist has provided us with a chance to proceed now and we should use it. If we don't we will just keep chasing after shadows," the purple mare replied.
"Sadly, I have to agree. The best way to find out more about the cult would be by infiltrating it. But as your personal guard, I have to warn you. Since the cult seems to have a strong hatred towards reapers, Fluttershy and I will not be able to follow inside. If they see us next to you, it would bring all of you into danger. As paradoxic as it may sound, it would be safer if the three of you go without us. Yet, that also means we will not be able to help if something goes wrong," Crystal explained.
"I guess that is a risk we have to take. You heard him. If Celestia tries to take down the church, they will just move away before the royal guards and reapers even arrive. Even if they succeed, we would only cut off a tiny leaf of a giant tree," Twilight answered.
"Well... I agreed to join your investigation and I am not backing out now that you need me, Twilight. I may be completely out of my mind, but I will come with you," Rarity agreed.
"Ah guess y'all need me too then... Let's just hope we get back out alive..." Applejack spoke.
"Don't worry. If we can survive Tartarus, we can survive this as well. Sorry for pulling you into this, girls... I'm so, so glad I can count on you. I suppose we should do this as soon as possible, before they start suspecting something and vanish again. I would say we do this tonight," Twilight explained.
"So it is tonight then... Ah better get rested up and prepare..." the orange mare stated and turned around.
The others followed her soon. Only Twilight remained in the room next to the stallion, letting an ink pot, quill and scroll fly through the open door. She needed to tell Celestia about their discoveries and that the royal guards should come for the cultist this afternoon already. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Shifting Perspective | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 7: Shifting Perspective
The cultist had been sitting in his detention cell for not even a complete hour when he had already lost track of time. He kept sitting in the dark, not moving a muscle. He was waiting, but not for his trial. As he finally heard something approaching him from behind, he did not even dare to raise his head. He did not need to see to know who was behind him, gazing at him in hatred and disgust.
"I... sold out the cult..." he spoke.
"I know," a strangely echoing female voice replied calmly.
Ten seconds of silence passed, the cultist still staring at the ground and sitting idly. As the creature behind him realized he did not know what to say, she continued speaking.
"How much did you tell them about the Trottingham church?" the voice asked.
"They know about its location and the dumbwaiter..." the cultist answered.
The creature behind him did not reply. Surely, this could be seen as a problem. But then again, this could also be turned to her advantage, she figured.
The pegasus stallion felt a front leg on his shoulder. As it wandered down to his chest, he closed his eyes and took a deep breath in.
"You know what is going to happen now, don't you?" the female voice asked again.
"Yes... Please forgive me..." he spoke.
"Nightmare Moon does not forgive," the echoing voice replied.
Now, the pegasus stallion could feel teeth coming from the leg and directly behind him ramming into his body. Moments later, he found himself drowning in a world of unimaginable pain, hearing his own flesh tearing and his bones breaking. Everything became red, followed by black moments later.
The stallion screamed so loud in agony that the entire police station became alarmed. But by the time the officers rushed over to the cultist's cell, it was already too late. All they could find was a bleeding mush of fur, feathers and bones. ---
The moon was already high up when the keepers of harmony and their reaper bodyguards met up behind a building not far from the blue one which they had been informed was the cult's church of Trottingham. Twilight, accompanied by Fluttershy, came several minutes earlier to the meeting point than the rest of the group in order to spy on the building. She was so lost in her observation that she became startled as the rest of her friends approached.
"Good gosh! Don't sneak up on me like that!" she complained quietly.
"Terribly sorry, darling. So? What do you think? Are they still there?" Rarity whispered.
"I can't tell for sure. I haven't seen a single pony walk in or out. Actually, I'm starting to wonder if he told us the truth," the purple mare answered.
"That would be a first. I never had a pony who dared to lie to me after experiencing my Stare," Fluttershy commented.
"Yet, you also have not been dealing with a member of the BloodClaw Cult before, apprentice," Crystal Blossom added. "We can not even begin to guess what they are capable of."
Twilight kept observing the blue house for several minutes longer. Then finally, she saw something suspicious. A light blue unicorn mare stopped in front of the house and began to look around carefully. Twilight retreated back and used a small illusion spell to help her see around the corner without getting seen herself.
"Girls, I think they are still here. This mare here puts a lot of effort in making sure she is not being observed," the purple mare spoke.
The entire group focused on the illusion. The mare continued carefully scanning the entire street before she eventually opened the door by magic and stepped inside.
"Ah think that's reason enough for us to go in," Applejack stated.
"Agreed," Twilight spoke, letting the illusion disappear again. "Okay then. Fluttershy, Crystal: We need your help to get on top of the building unseen. Once we are inside, I want you to stay nearby. Everypony ready?"
"Ready," Rarity spoke.
"Ready," Fluttershy confirmed.
"Ready," Crystal spoke.
"One moment. Before we do this, I have a question," Applejack requested, then turned over to Rarity. "What in tarnation do you need that for?!"
She pointed at a necklace around the fashion diva's neck. It was so completely overstuffed with gems to the point that you could not even see the chain anymore. The others noticed it too, but did not think about commenting on it. Rarity, though, just shook her head slowly and smiled.
"Oh Applejack. You don't really think I would go on such a dangerous mission unarmed, do you?" the white mare wondered.
"Oh so that's why your luggage is so darn heavy! Ya brought all yer gems with you! Okay, ah can live with that," the orange mare commented.
"Now that we are speaking of it. I hope you do realize this is a stealth mission and any noise coming from you can risk your life," Crystal wondered.
"Come on now. I may have a focus on looking fabulous, but I am certainly not an amateur!" Rarity spoke, shaking her head several times.
Although the jewel necklace moved around a lot, not a single sound could be heard from it.
"Not a peep... How did you do that?" Applejack wondered.
"All a matter of technique, my dear. All a matter of technique," Rarity replied proudly.
"I think that's settled then. Let's go," Twilight spoke.
The two reaper mares nodded in confirmation. While Fluttershy picked up Twilight, Crystal carried both Applejack and Rarity at once.
As they lifted into the air, they first flew half a mile away from the blue building, changing directions frequently between the streets and seeking shadow. This was in order to prevent any chance of being tracked down. Then after several minutes, they lifted high up into the air.
The reaper cloaks allowed them to stay completely unseen in the night sky, so they could finally aim straight for their target. Hovering closely above the roof, Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom looked for a place where they could let the mares down. It was the elder reaper who noticed that one of the windows was not locked properly and opened it by magic.
One by one, the keepers of harmony climbed through the window into an empty apartment. The wallpaper, the ceiling and the flooring were so new that they could still smell the adhesive. Nopony was nearby and after just a minute of sneaking around, they could find the dinner lift. It seemed like they really got the truth out of the cultist.
"Okay girls. No turning back now. Try to avoid getting seen or heard at any cost. Stick to the shadows and never walk into a light. I'll go down first and see if its clear. You wait for my signal," Twilight whispered.
After Applejack and Rarity nodded in understanding, the purple mare used her magic to quietly open the lift and slowly climbed inside. She barely fit in and had difficulties closing the door again. But eventually, she could position herself right and used her magic to slowly lower the lift.
A minute passed by and she still did not hit the bottom. Suddenly, Twilight heard hoof clattering. She instantly stopped the lift and tried to be as quiet as possible. It sounded like several ponies were just on the other side of the wall, speaking to each other. Although she could not understand what they were talking about, she could figure that she now reached the ground floor.
Fighting against the slowly rising claustrophobia, Twilight kept waiting for another minute until the voices finally vanished again. She let out an unhearable sigh of relief and continued lowering the lift.
Not much later, she finally hit the ground. The purple mare did not want to rush it now and make a fatal mistake, so she kept sitting in the lift for a moment longer, listening closely to what was going on outside. As she heard nothing, she opened the lift by a narrow gap and glanced outside. Nopony was there.
Very slowly, Twilight opened the door. She was surrounded by large removal crates in something that looked like it was meant to become a lavatory. The purple mare left her cover and started sneaking between the crates.
Everything seemed to be clear. Her friends could come down safely, so she made the food lift go back up, signalling the others to follow. A few minutes later, Applejack and Rarity arrived in the unfinished lavatory as well.
Twilight again lead the way, sneaking up to the only door out of this room and slowly opening it. As she glanced through the door slit, she could see a good dozen of ponies sitting together in a relatively small room. All of them were wearing red robes decorated with three black claw marks.
"So we praise you, Nightmare Moon, as queen of the gods! You, oh greatest of all punishers, are the undeniable true ruler of this world!" a male voice praised.
"All hail the demon queen," the ponies chanted in response.
After Twilight made sure none of them were near their door, she waved Applejack and Rarity over to spy along with her.
"I can not believe what I am seeing here! This is just dreadful!" Rarity whispered.
"Ah know. Can't believe how many those are and that they believe this rubbish," Applejack replied.
"No. Not that! Look at the robes! They are so crudely made! And what a poor choice of color! It is so irritating to the eye! I think they should rather get arrested for poor fashion choice than for worshipping demons!" the white mare stated.
Both Twilight and Applejack just rolled their eyes and returned to their observation. By now, the whole room was filled with incomprehensible mumbling.
"What do ya think they're doing?" Applejack wondered.
"I'm not sure, but it sounds like they are praying to that picture of Nightmare Moon over there... Oh, look!" Twilight spoke quietly.
One of the cultists entered with a pig on a leash. It was clearly in panic, but they still forced it up on something like a podium covered in sinister markings.
Three cultists at once held the pig immobile on the platform, turned sideways facing the crowd. Then a fourth approached with a strange looking dagger. Its blade was waved and the hilt showed demonic faces. The cultist stopped in front of the pig and held the dagger with both front legs into the air.
"In blood she was born and in blood it shall end. Another soul we offer to you, mistress of red shadows," he spoke.
As soon as he finished speaking, he rammed the dagger into the pig's throat. Directly after, the blade retreated to leave it squealing loudly in pain. But just moments later, the animal's screams became drowned by its own blood running out of its mouth and neck. The red liquid flew into the gravure on the podium, creating red lines.
Rarity had seen enough. She became sick from the sight and retreated, placing a front hoof on her mouth in desperate struggle to not throw up. But she was not the only one disgusted by the sight. Twilight and Applejack as well had revulsion written in their faces.
"By all things that are good... This... This is just so wrong..." Applejack commented quietly.
"Well... good thing Fluttershy doesn't have to see that. I bet she would still get enraged over seeing an animal getting killed for no reason," Twilight replied.
The cultists kept mumbling while watching the death struggle. As the pig stopped moving, they just tossed it down from the table and stepped aside. Now, Twilight could see that the blood actually flowed along the lines down to a bowl, where it gathered up. Suddenly, the cultists returned with another victim. But it was not an animal this time.
Dragged out on sturdy chains around the neck, the cultists were pulling a reaper mare who seemed to be so drained of her strength that she couldn't even move anymore. They just placed her on the same podium and slit her throat like they did with the pig, allowing her blood to mix in with the animals'.
"I get it... They are diluting the reaper blood this way..." Twilight commented.
"Ugh... Sorry, Twi... Ah can't watch this anymore... I'm gettin' sick..." Applejack announced quietly and retreated.
The purple mare also had to struggle with nausea, but she forced herself to keep watching. She needed to gather as much information as possible.
The reaper mare was next to unconscious when one of the cultists came up to her and lifted her head, making her look into his eyes.
"Today is your lucky day, traitor. You have run out of use for us," he spoke, then turned around to the other cultists. "Bring her to the sanctuary along with the pig carcass."
Without speaking another word, the cultists dragged the reaper mare and the dead pig into a room close to them. After that, all of the cultists suddenly went in a line. One by one, they grabbed a bowl, dipped it in the blood mixture and drank it.
Twilight flinched at the sight. To imagine they were all doing this on their own free will... Yet, something caught her curiosity.
"Sanctuary... What do they want with dead bodies in a sanctuary..." she whispered.
Rarity and Applejack had recovered by now, but still stood back and just shrugged in response. After every cultist had a bowl, they all sat back down except for one to stand behind the podium again.
"Maledictum Insania. The blessing of truth. The power of the demons, given to pony-kind. Embrace this gift just as you embrace the red darkness. Spill the blood of non-believers and serve our lords. Only then, they will deem you worthy of joining their ranks. Thank you all for coming tonight. Let us continue on our plans of taking over the orphanage," he spoke.
"Good gosh! They want orphans?!" Applejack commented quietly in shock.
"More blood or possible followers I would assume... Such monsters..." Twilight replied.
For the following half hour, the cultists discussed a detailed plan of how to effectively position members of the cult in administrative bodies and bring Trottingham into a financial crisis, which would force the city to hand out the leadership of the local orphanage. This plan included assassinating several ponies, among them the current manager of the orphanage, who then would get replaced by an undercover cultist. Twilight could just sit there with an open mouth as she heard of how well they had thought this through.
"By Celestia... If they pull this off like they say, it would actually work..." she commented.
"We can not let that happen, darling. We need to get out of here and warn the city!" Rarity suggested.
"Not yet. I really want to know what's inside that sanctuary. It seems to be very important to them from what I can make out of their glances. This might just be the biggest secret we can find here," the purple mare replied.
So the keepers of harmony spent more than an hour in the lavatory, trying to be as quiet as possible and waiting for an opportunity to come out. Ultimately, the meeting of the cultists came to an end. They all stood up and went upstairs.
Twilight waited a few more minutes to make sure they truly were done down here before she decided to fully open the door and sneak outside. Now in the middle of this room, she had to admit it really looked like something that could be called a church. Rich red and black decor was hung on all walls, most of them featuring demons or Nightmare Moon herself. Yet, there was barely anything useful. The cultists did not take any notes and just discussed their plans verbally.
After the group made sure they had not missed anything down there, they went over to the black door leading to the room the cultists declared as their sanctuary. As Twilight opened it, she could instantly make out that this had to be the largest room in the basement. It was very dark and they could not see the other side.
"I'm getting the feeling that this whole building was actually made with the cult specifically in mind. Otherwise I would not find a logical explanation why anypony would need such a big basement," Twilight commented.
"So the whole apartment part is just a disguise. The BloodClaw Cult has a lot of power... it is terrifying..." Rarity added.
"Well, if we have come this far, we might as well just go in there," Applejack suggested and walked ahead.
Twilight and Rarity followed immediately and closed the door behind them. Now it was pitch black inside, so the purple mare used a light spell to illuminate the room. Though it barely had any effect. The darkness in the sanctuary seemed to be magical, trying to resist the light.
As the group started walking, they could hear the sound of a blade getting sharpened. Instantly, all three went into battle stance and slowed down their approach. Nowhere could they see the pig body or the reaper mare. Everything was just black, even the floor, walls and ceiling.
The closer they came to the metallic sound, the more they could hear another as well. A desperate whimpering. As they finally reached its source, they all instantly stopped.
The three mares were paralyzed with wide open eyes and mouths. They could not believe what they were looking at. In front of them was a blood stained torture rack, holding a pony they all knew.
"R... Rainbow Dash?" Twilight spoke.
The light blue pegasus mare kept her head hanging and cried the whole time. But as soon as she heard her name, she slowly lifted her head, gazing at her friends with an expression of complete desperation.
"Twilight... Applejack... Rarity... Help me..." she spoke with a voice suiting her expression.
The mares kept sitting in place idly, still trying to understand what they were looking at. The sound of blade sharpening suddenly stopped and instead, something clattering came towards them. Moments later, another pony stepped forth from behind the rack.
"Ah! There you are! I've been waiting for you! Ready for a little torture party? Dashie is the guest of honor after all!" a pink earth pony mare spoke with a knife in her mouth.
She was wearing a patchwork dress of cutie marks featuring pegasus wings on the back. Along with that, she was wearing a necklace made of various unicorn horns. At the sight of this mare, the group became shocked even much more.
"Pinkie Pie?!" they all spoke out at once, half yelling.
"Yep! It's me! Your good old auntie Pinkie! I'm so glad I can see you guys again! I thought I would never get to be with you anymore. But now you are all here!" Pinkie replied with a giggle.
"And Ah am so glad Ah can be with you, mommy!" a young female voice spoke to the left of the group.
As Applejack, Rarity and Twilight turned, they saw another pony approaching them which they thought to be dead for years now. The sight of this teenage filly brought tears into Applejack's eyes.
"Applebloom..." she spoke.
"Hi, sis'! Have ya come to let me down again? Ah can't believe ya let me get killed! What kind of sister are ya?" the filly blamed.
"I... Applebloom... I..." the orange mare started, unable to put her feelings in words.
"Guys... Please... Get me down from here... Please..." Rainbow Dash kept pleading.
"Oh no no no no no! You stay right there, Dashie! This is your party!" Pinkie Pie commented while bouncing around the rack.
Suddenly, another voice could be heard screaming.
"Rarity! Rarity!" another teenage filly spoke while running towards the fashion diva and embracing her, crying loudly.
"S... Sweetie Belle... Oh my stars... Is... Is that really you?!" Rarity wondered with teary eyes and deeply shocked.
Twilight just sat there with an expression of complete disbelief as her eyes wandered all around her. More and more ponies they thought dead appeared: Scootaloo. Snails. Granny Smith. But the one which shocked Twilight the most was not a pony.
"M-Mommy?!" a young male voice spoke.
"Spike..." Twilight analyzed, her eyes instantly filling with tears.
The baby dragon stood just in front of her, his eyes as well full of tears as he glanced at the purple mare.
"Twilight... Mommy... You're back... I'm... I'm so sorry..." he spoke while slowly approaching Twilight.
"Ah wouldn't have thought Ah'd see ya back so soon, Jackie," Granny Smith commented.
"Granny... Applebloom... Granny..." Applejack kept speaking, unable to move and crying heavily.
"Sis'... Please get me out of here. Please! I can't take it anymore! Please, Rarity!" Sweetie Belle pleaded.
The longer this scene continued, the more overwhelming it became. Applebloom kept blaming Applejack. Rainbow Dash continuously cried in desperation and begged for help while Pinkie Pie toyed with her wings. Sweetie Belle cried her soul out while Rarity held her tightly and cried along. Both of Twilight's friends had completely given up to even try to understand what was going on by now and just found themselves unable to handle the situation and the emotions it evoked in them.
Only Twilight kept observing. Only Twilight could bring her eyes off from those dear to her to watch her friends. Then, it suddenly became clear to her: They were slowly being surrounded.
The purple mare made a radical decision. Using her arcane magic, she blasted Spike away and used arcane shockwaves to separate Rarity and Applejack from their family members. The shock over her actions were clearly seen in everypony's face.
"What in the name of Celestia are you doing, Twilight?!" Rarity shouted in anger.
"Wake up, girls! This is a trap!" the purple mare shouted back.
"A trap? What do ya mean Twi'? How can they be a trap? Applebloom... Granny Smith... Rainbow, Pinkie... Even Spike is here!" Applejack argued.
"That's just it! Come back to your senses! You know they are all dead! How can they be here? It makes no sense!" Twilight stated.
"Twilight... You can't be serious! Get me off here! Please! I'm begging you!" Rainbow Dash kept pleading.
Everypony was staring at Twilight while her purple arcane aura kept her floating in the air. Her white eyes lowered to the ground as she tried to come to a decision.
"Wait a moment... The cult is worshipping demons. It would only make sense if they would get in contact with them as well... A sanctuary... A holy place for holy beings... They need to be fed with flesh..." the purple mare analyzed. "Girls. Those are not our friends and family members. We are facing a group of demons here."
A moment of silence passed, everypony staring at Twilight. Then slowly, the expressions of their dead friends and family members shifted to sinister smiles. Directly after, their eyes began to glow red.
"The keeper of magic is smart," Spike commented in a different voice.
"She can see through our disguise," Pinkie continued.
"We must not-" Scootaloo spoke.
"Let them escape-" Granny Smith continued.
"With this knowledge," Rainbow Dash finished.
Suddenly, the pegasus mare began to change color and move around strangely on her rack, followed by all the other disguised demons doing the same. All of them started to suddenly grow additional limbs, mouths, eyes and heavily changed their appearance to nightmarish, abstract masses of black flesh and blades.
"Girls. Let's get out of here. Let's go! Go! Go!" Twilight shouted and turned around.
As Rarity and Applejack started running too, one of the demons screamed loudly while the others began to chase after the group. The three mares ran as fast as they could, but the demons were still a lot faster. Just as the first one was about to catch up, Twilight launched an arcane bolt behind her, sending it flying.
The three mares rushed out the sanctuary and aimed straight for the stairs up. But the cultists had heard the scream and explosions and were rushing down with blades in their mouths.
Twilight launched an arcane shockwave right at them, scattering them apart. But the cultists instantly formed back together and blocked the stairs.
Now forced to fight, Rarity used her magic to tear an aquamarine out of her necklace and launched it at the sanctuary door, sealing it with a thick layer of ice. While the demons tried all they could to break through, the first cultists started charging the group.
Applejack could dodge a few attacks and even land a hard kick on one of the cultists, but she could hardly keep up the fight with one leg missing. Twilight decided to play for time and raised an arcane shield around them, but the unicorn members of the cult instantly began to cast counterspells. Twenty seconds passed when several cultists on the stairs suddenly found themselves getting sliced in half. As the remaining ones turned around, they saw Crystal Blossom and Fluttershy fighting their way down.
With this support, Rarity decided to start a distraction. She gave Twilight a signal to remove the shield and used a ruby from her necklace to start a big fire, filling the whole basement with smoke. While the cultists were coughing and trying to see through the smoke, the group rushed over to the stairs, where they were picked up by the two reaper mares.
Finally, the demons broke through the ice. But before they could even reach the mares, Crystal decided to give a first impression of her special talent. With one quick spell, she froze the entire basement over, immobilizing every creature that did not belong to their group. This gave them just enough time to rush out of the blue house before the demons could break free from the ice again.
It was over. The keepers of harmony escaped. The demons did not want to reveal themselves in the middle of a city, so they just turned around and waited for the cultists to break free.
Nearly five minutes passed until they all were able to move freely again, shaking all over. The cultists grouped up in front of the demons and bowed down.
"My lords... We have disappointed you... Forgive us..." one of them spoke.
The demons mutely exchanged a few glances. Then they suddenly turned around. Behind them was another set of glowing red eyes, hiding in the dark.
"You did not disappoint. This is just-" one of the demons started.
"As we planned," the figure with an echoing female voice hiding in the shadows finished.
"But... They escaped!" another cultist stated,
"Planned," a demon spoke.
"Predicted," another added.
"Executed," a third finished.
"W... what do we do now?" one of the cultists wondered.
"The time has come for you to rise. If the keepers of harmony want war, they can have war. Now, the hiding ends," the echoing voice in the dark explained.
"It is time... It is time! Finally!" another cultist commented.
Suddenly, the mood in the destroyed church changed entirely. Loud cheering broke out. Even the demons seemed to laugh quietly in satisfaction.
"I need to return. Black Widow will certainly want to hear the news," the creature in the dark spoke.
The other demons nodded in understanding and began to walk back inside the sanctuary. Moments later, the pair of red eyes hiding in the shadows vanished again. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Joining Forces | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 8: Joining Forces
After escaping the Trottingham church, Twilight and her friends ran as far away as they could. Fearing to still be followed by demons or cultists, the group did not stop until they reached a large meadow outside of the city. A few hours later, the sun slowly began to rise again. Yet, none of them could even think of sleeping after what they had just experienced.
As usual, Twilight's motivation quickly returned. She sent a letter to Princess Celestia, warning her about the cult's plans. As soon as she was done, she turned to Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom.
"I know its a bit late, but... thank you for helping us. I'm not sure if we would have made it out without you two," the purple mare spoke.
"It's alright, Twilight. But what exactly happened down there? None of you could say a word until now," Fluttershy wondered.
"We ran into a trap. In case you didn't see them: There was a group of demons hiding in the sanctuary of the church," Twilight started.
"I saw them. What did they do?" Crystal asked.
"They pulled some pretty nasty mind-tricks on us, making us believe they were our long dead friends. Demons sure are talented monsters... They could imitate them to the smallest detail," Twilight explained.
Crystal Blossom lowered her head and placed her right front hoof on her chin. A moment later, she looked back at the purple mare.
"Did you see anything through which the demons could have come to the city? A tunnel? A teleportation rune or some sort of portal?" Crystal wanted to know.
"No. Nothing like that. In fact, it looked more like these demons were living down there for a while now. The sanctuary was well prepared, very spacious and enchanted with some kind of odd magic that repels light," Twilight explained.
Again, the elder reaper seemed to sink into thoughts, lowering her head while rubbing her chin.
"I am puzzled," she spoke, then turned over to her apprentice "Did you sense anything from the outside?"
"No. I'm pretty surprised myself. Reapers can sense demons, even from some distance and through walls. Why couldn't we sense those?" Fluttershy asked.
"Wait... you couldn't sense them?" Rarity asked in the background.
"Well... No... I should have been able to feel their presence, but I had no clue they were here until I saw them," Fluttershy stated.
"What were these demons like, Twilight?" Crystal wondered.
"Wow... Describing that would be next to impossible. I don't even know how to begin. Nothing about them made any sense. They were just... like... masses of black flesh, limbs, blades, claws and fanged mouths," Twilight tried to explain.
"Didn't you just say they looked like our dead friends?" Fluttershy wondered.
"They did, but then they... changed," the purple mare continued.
"Changed?" Crystal repeated.
"I really don't know how to describe it any better. They could shapeshift into anything they wanted to be. None of them looked like the other once we uncovered them," Twilight stated.
"Mentor, what kind of demon were they?" Fluttershy wanted to know.
"That is exactly what puzzles me. I have never heard of demons with such advanced shapeshifting and disguising abilities... But I have a grim suspicion," the elder reaper mare answered.
"What kind of suspicion?" Twilight wanted to know.
"Change... About three years ago, the changelings planned a large-scale onslaught on Equestria. We prepared for a war against them, but before it could even come this far, the demons executed a surprise attack and rendered them extinct. I was the first to arrive at the scenery after the massacre was over and I quickly came to realize that all they wanted where the souls of the changelings. We soon came to the assumption that the demons did this because they were preparing for a massive attack, but it never came to that. We had been maintaining Equestria in crisis state for months without any kind of response from the demons. This made us wonder what their true intentions really were... I suppose now we have the answer," the light blue mare explained.
"Are you saying that those nasty things we have seen were demons who ate changeling souls?" Rarity wondered.
"Oh my goodness... I have heard of demons getting stronger, ranking up and transforming when they devour specific souls, but to think they planned to create a whole new type intentionally..." Fluttershy commented.
"Demons with the perfect disguising ability of changelings... So well mastered that not even reapers can sense them... They could freely roam through the streets and we would have no way of telling that they are there," Crystal analyzed.
"Oh gosh... Now I'm starting to understand how the BloodClaw Cult organizes... If they don't just worship demons, but actually cooperate with them, they can set up a whole new form of structure. That would explain why they don't take any notes. If at least one of the cultists is actually a disguised... let's just call this new demon type skin-walkers for now... so if one of them is actually a skin-walker, it can memorize all their decisions and very quickly pass on the order to other demons and cultists," Twilight stated.
"Incorporating demons in their management structure would make the communication of the cult extremely effective. Not only are most demons very strong and fast, but these skin-walkers would also be able to just pass through any kind of security unseen. Nightmare Moon created a legion of perfect spies..." Crystal added.
"Oh my stars... Everything seems to look much darker than we thought, doesn't it? I just hope that... Um... Applejack, darling. Are you alright?" Rarity spoke.
The group turned over to the orange mare. It was now that they realized she had been very quiet so far. She did not reply and just kept sitting idly, staring at the ground before her.
"Applejack?" Twilight called.
Again, no response was given, worrying all of her friends. As they walked over to her, they could see tear trails on her face, along with an expression of shock.
"Oh no... She is traumatized... Seeing Applebloom and Granny Smith like that must have been too much for her..." the purple mare analyzed and gently embraced the orange mare.
Rarity went right in front of her and placed her front hooves on Applejack's shoulders.
"Applejack, darling... I completely understand that this must have been a shock for you, seeing how much you cared about them... But you can not let yourself go like that now. We are all here for you," she spoke.
Applejack slowly nodded in response, but still was not able to move or speak. Fluttershy wanted to join in and already took a few steps when she suddenly saw something.
The gray figure had returned. This time, it was standing behind a large bush not far from them.
"Huh? What is that?" Twilight suddenly spoke.
"What is what?" Rarity wondered.
"I... I don't know... There suddenly is some really strange disturbance in the flow of magic," the purple mare explained.
"Girls... whatever it is, it's over there," Fluttershy whispered, pointing towards the bush.
Twilight instantly cast a spell that made a large net appear, launching it over to the bush. Just before it could hit its target, the gray figure vanished again. But still, the net seemed to wrap itself around something.
"Gotcha!" Twilight commented and started running over to the bush.
Fluttershy just stood in place, blinking a few times in confusion when Crystal came over to her.
"You have very sharp senses, apprentice. Even I did not notice that. Well done," she congratulated.
"Actually... that was not what I-" the yellow mare started.
"Aha! Girls, come over here for a second," Twilight requested.
Behind the bush, they found a mare in dark clothing. She shifted around in the net, struggling to get free.
"What in Equestria are you doing? Let me out of here!" she yelled.
"What were you doing behind that bush? Spying on us?" Twilight wanted to know.
"Spying?! I have no idea what you are talking about! I was just having my morning walk!" the mare replied, scandalized.
"At dawn? Yeah, right," Twilight commented.
"What can I say! I'm an early bird! Is that a crime?" the mare asked.
"No, but worshipping demons and believing in Maledictum Insania as a blessing is," Twilight replied.
With that statement, she clearly got her. The trapped mare looked around nervously, apparently trying to come up with an excuse. But no matter how hard she tried, she just couldn't think of a way to believably explain why she knew of the curse of madness.
"Dang it..." the mare spoke and stopped struggling.
"That's better," the purple mare commented.
"Now the question is, is she a pony or a skin-walker? I mean you did feel something strange about her," Rarity wondered.
"I couldn't feel anything about those we met, so I don't think she is one. Also, this wouldn't have been so easy if she was a demon," Twilight explained.
"Pff... Skin-walker... What a disrespectful name for our lords," the trapped mare commented.
"I do believe you owe us some answers. Did the demons send you or did you come here on your own?" Twilight wanted to know.
"The only thing I will tell you is that this is just the beginning. You keepers of harmony started a fire that will burn down the whole world. We consider you our number one prey now and we will hunt you down," the mare spoke.
What followed then was something none of them would have expected. They were dealing with a member of the BloodClaw Cult so professional and loyal that she actually preferred to bite off her own tongue over revealing any secrets of the cult. The sight shocked all of the keepers of harmony and even gave Applejack her voice back.
"What in tarnation?!" she shouted.
The mare moaned in pain as the blood gushed out of her mouth and she stared at the mares in hatred.
"The cult believes in Maledictum Insania as a blessing and source of power. Perhaps they are able to use the properties of the curse to perform such rash actions, violating any sense of self-protection. She is our enemy and just made herself useless to us. We might as well just end her suffering," Crystal spoke and stepped forth.
In one quick movement, she summoned her scythe and decapitated the mare. Moments later, her soul left the body and vanished into the air.
"Ah! Warn me next time!" Rarity spoke in shock and turned her head away.
"Apologies," Crystal replied and bowed down a bit.
"W... Well... W-what are we gonna do now, y'all?" Applejack wondered.
"I have no clue... The cult is searching for us in Trottingham now. I guess the population and size of the city is too low for us to stay hidden for long. The only one who could have given us an idea where to look next is dead now. Not that I'm saying what you did was wrong, Crystal. But now we are stranded in our investigation," Twilight replied.
"D-do we really... wanna go on? After that? I-I mean..." Applejack stuttered.
"I know this is hard for you right now, AJ. But we all knew this would become dangerous. They want to prevent us from meddling any more in their affairs. Yet, now that we know all this, it is even much more crucial we keep going. We can't let them get away with their plans," the purple mare stated.
"Ah...g-guess you're right... Darn... A-ah just can't get over it... Granny... Applebloom... S-she's blaming me for her death..." Applejack spoke.
"She is not, AJ. That was just a trick of the demons. They just wanted to guilt-trip you. You know that," Twilight explained.
Again, the orange mare did not reply and just hung her head instead. So Rarity stepped next to her and placed a front hoof on her shoulder.
"Darling... I know how hard it is to lose a sister... I lost mine as well. I can fully understand how much you are still struggling with this. But we can not let ourselves get drowned in sorrow. We must keep going. Not only for ourselves, but also for our friends and families," she spoke.
Applejack was listening, but gave no form of response. Rarity figured it would be the best to try to find something different to talk about right now, so she eyed up the dark dress this mare was wearing. She wanted to find something about it which she could make fun of to lighten the atmosphere again. But she actually had to admit that this dress was well made. In fact, it reminded her of something.
"Wait a minute. Girls! I know where this dress is from!" she announced.
"Really?" Twilight wondered.
"That kind of clothing is in high demand in Manehattan! I have been informing myself about the styles of this city not too long ago! She must have come to Trottingham for a meeting and then was assigned to spy on us! Hah! They forgot about Rarity it seems!" the fashion diva spoke, throwing a pose in pride.
"Excellent observation, Rarity! This is great! Now we are back on track!" Twilight commented in excitement.
"Manehattan is a darn huge city, Twi. If the cult's there as well, we gotta be extra careful," Applejack spoke.
"Don't worry, AJ. With the cult hunting us now, I didn't plan to go on any more dangerous missions anyway. We must think of other ways to gather information from the cult and foil their plans," the purple mare replied.
It was decided. Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom took care to dispose of the dead cultist. But while they were transporting her away, Fluttershy's eyes kept jumping back to the bush. Just what is this gray thing? What did it want from her and why can't anypony besides her see it?
"Is something wrong, apprentice?" Crystal wondered.
"I saw this gray figure again. It seems to follow me," the yellow mare replied.
"Strange. I have not seen this gray figure so far. Perhaps one of the demons you had been fighting before gave you some sort of curse that affects your perception. I will have a look at it once we are done here," the elder reaper stated.
"Perhaps... thank you, mentor," Fluttershy spoke. ---
Now having to be much more careful when using public transportation, the group spent the next three days using close to empty trains and alternate routes to reach Manehattan. Applejack did not exaggerate when she said that it was a big city. Most buildings were at least six floors tall and carriages were constantly stuffing the streets. Thousands of ponies were seen out of the houses all the time, making it a real struggle to walk through the city. This crowdedness in combination with the loud city noises was something the keepers of harmony quickly found very hard to handle, since they were only used to the quiet, sparsely populated Ponyville.
Constantly, the group had to squeeze through the masses while paper boys were shouting out the newest headline:
"Special edition! Series of mysterious celebrity disappearances continues! Hoity Toity vanished from his manor!"
"Huh? Hoity Toity disappeared? I'm buying one!" Rarity spoke, using her magic to lift two bits out of her saddlebag and handing them to the paper boy.
"Thank you most kindly, lady! Here you go!" he replied and handed out a fresh newspaper.
"Celebrities disappearing? That sure sounds suspicious," Fluttershy commented.
"The BloodClaw Cult is planning to infiltrate and dismantle the organization structures of Equestria. It might well be that this is part of their plan, too," Twilight assumed.
The group continued walking down the bustling streets of Manehattan, not yet knowing where to settle down. Rarity found herself so lost in the newspaper that she accidentally bumped into a stallion.
"Hey! Watch where you are... By Nightmare Moon! Heretic! Guys, they are here!" he shouted.
At once, a group of stallions appeared, surrounding the keepers of harmony. All of them instantly went into battle stance and the reapers summoned their scythes. But before any of the cultists could even attack, one of them was launched away by another pony pouncing him.
"Oh no, ya don't!" a female voice shouted.
Suddenly, dozens of police officers appeared and swiftly pinned down the group of stallions. A moment later, the situation was defused.
"A bit radical, but effective! Well done, trainee!" one of the officers spoke to the mare who did the first move.
As the mare made sure she had the cultist shackled and disabled, she stood up again. It was a light brown teenager with short amaranth mane and tail with light green eyes. She was wearing a police uniform and hat, yet seemed to be still in training.
"Thanks, commissioner," she replied, then turned to the group. "Are ya alr- Applejack! What are ya doin' here?!"
"Babs Seed! Heavens to betsy, you have grown! Ya're workin' for the police now?" the orange mare wondered.
"I sure am! Have a look at that!" Babs replied and turned sideways.
It has been years since the last time they met Applebloom's cousin. A lot seemed to have changed since then, since she now had her cutie mark. It was a set of hoof cuffs.
"Now that's impressive! The apple family never had somepony with such a talent before!" Applejack commented.
"Heh, thanks. Actually, I owe my cutie mark to you! After the lessons you and AB taught me, I finally could deal with my bullies. Didn't take long then that they gave up on teasin' me and tried to bully a younger classmate. When they tried to steal his lunch money and I fought for him to get it back, I discovered that I'm really good at dealin' with criminals! So naturally, as soon as I was done with school, I signed up for the Manehattan police!" Babs explained.
"That is amazing! Congratulations, Babs!" Twilight spoke.
The teenager grinned widely in pride and looked over to Applejack, hoping to hear a comment from her. But she suddenly gained a sad expression and looked to the ground. As soon as Babs Seed mentioned her younger sister, she remembered the scene of a few days ago and that Babs still didn't know about what had happened to her.
"Uh... What's the matter?" the teenager wondered.
"I'll... talk about it with ya when we got more time, sugarcube..." Applejack replied.
"Well... okay... Was nice to see ya again. But I have to get back to work now," the teenager replied.
"Actually, you have done a lot today. Why don't you go and spend some time with your friends?" one of the officers spoke.
"Really? Well thanks a lot, sir! I'll see ya tomorrow then!" Babs replied.
"Seeya!" the officers spoke and went on their way back to the police station with the cultists.
"Gosh... I can't believe it. Just look at you! Ah still remember how small and shy ya were as a filly. Ya sure have grown, Babs!" Applejack commented while she tried to push the painful thoughts out of her mind again.
"Oh you are so right about that! I sure feel a lot better now since I know how to fight for myself and for others!" the teenager spoke happily, then turned around to look at the reaper mares. "Hey! I remember you! Um... Fluttershy, right?"
"Yes... Hello..." the yellow mare replied.
"You look different from what I remember. Hang on... You two are... reapers, right?" Babs assumed.
"Correct. I am elder Crystal Blossom and Fluttershy is my apprentice. It is always pleasant to meet somepony fighting for law and order in the land like we do," the light blue mare replied.
"I haven't met a reaper before. Kinda strange to come across two at once now. Hm... you weren't a reaper the last time I met you, or were ya, Fluttershy?" Babs wondered.
Instantly, the yellow mare lowered her head.
"No... I became one just a few years ago," she replied.
"Huh? You can become a reaper? I always assumed ya have to be born as one," Babs stated.
"It's a bit complex to explain. We will have enough time for that later. But for now, we are looking for a place to settle down," Twilight stated.
"Ya're plannin' to stay in Manehattan? Has somethin' happened?" the teenager wondered.
"Well, yes. These ponies who tried to attack us were members of a cult we are investigating, Twilight explained.
"The BloodClaw Cult I take," Babs commented.
"You know about them?" the purple mare asked.
"I can hardly not know about them. Three days ago, they just popped out everywhere and started causin' ruckus here in Manehattan. Sermons about Nightmare Moon on open streets upsettin' the locals, vandalism in public parks where we found them destroyin' statues of the princesses, repeated cases of murder. It's pretty bad," the teenager explained.
"So the cult really is openly presenting itself now," Crystal analyzed.
"This is no good. We badly need to find some protected place for our investigation," Rarity stated.
"Hey, I have an idea! Why don't ya all come to my place? I moved out of my parents' house and got plenty of space!" Babs offered.
"An apartment surely would be better than a hotel room. Thanks, Babs Seed," Twilight replied.
"Ain't no problem! We are all on the same side of law, so we should stick together!" the teenager replied happily.
The group spent the rest of the day together with her, telling them all about the criminal activities in Manehattan. As it started getting dark, they slowly went on their way to Babs Seed's apartment. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Purpose | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 9: Purpose
In the beginning, she was nothing. Just a fragment of the demon queen, stuck in the soul of a young mare struggling with desperation. But as time passed, the fragment evolved. It feasted on the slowly growing madness of the mare, shaped up more and more, until she could finally claim the ultimate trophy. By devouring the soul of her host, she gained the right to exist. And so, Nightmare Moon gave birth to another of her children.
At first, it was all just black. But as she broke through the eggshell which kept her imprisoned, she could see lights and immediately began to loathe them. The first thing she saw was a purple unicorn mare in front of her. The newborn demoness instinctively knew that this was her nemesis.
The purple mare was paralyzed. She sat in front of the demoness with tiny pupils and an expression of utter shock. The demoness, though, enjoyed the horror on her face and approached.
She stared into the eyes of her nemesis. She could see right through this mare as if she was made of glass. She could see her soul, her memories, the very essence of her personality. What the demoness found inside the purple mare was knowledge. She hungered for it.
While the demon copied and devoured her memories and knowledge, the mare could bring herself to speak again.
"Wha... who are you? What are you?" the purple mare screamed.
Even though she was just newborn, Nightmare Moon had been talking to her before. Already while still in her host, the demon queen said but one word to her. She gave her her name.
"Despair," the demoness replied and continued feasting on knowledge.
But Despair was interrupted. She found herself under attack by a reaper and had to run away. Already, she came to realize how talented in magic she was due to devouring her host's soul. Moondancer.
Despair escaped without much trouble. A deep instinct told her to search for her kind and join with them. But even stronger than her instincts was her hunger for knowledge. Like every newborn, she craved to learn as much as she could, preferably about the pony she needed to destroy. So, the demoness ran to Ponyville as fast as she could and rushed into the library.
She scanned through everything she knew it belonged to Twilight. Every book she had ever touched. Every cupboard she had ever opened. Every scroll she had ever written. Despair needed to learn.
"Twilight? You're back already? What are you doing in the dark?" a young male voice wondered.
As the demoness turned around, she saw a baby dragon. Despair already knew that, in the dark, she looked exactly like Twilight Sparkle. Despair also knew that this creature was very dear to Twilight. It would be of use to her.
"Spike," Despair spoke and started approaching him. ---
Demons can have all sorts of appearances. Depending on their purpose, they can be giant or tiny, black or white, loud or quiet. Barely anywhere else can there be a larger variety of demons found than in the demon stronghold Tartarus. But one of them just stuck out much more than all the other ones.
On one of the lower platforms, close to the giant pillar made of undead ponies, which the demons use as a breeding ground, there was a tiny demoness. She was about the size of a pony foal and colored in an unhealthy radiant green. Instead of a mane or tail, she had thick green clouds around her. She was sitting on the ground, grinning widely with her sharp demonic fangs and thoroughly red glowing eyes while playing with a pony skull and spine. Her little wings fluttered every once in a while as she spent hours just sitting and playing there. Sometimes, she gathered a new piece from one of the zombie ponies. The rest of the demons seemed to ignore her entirely. But then, the little green demoness suddenly stopped playing and turned her head sideways.
"Despy!" she shouted while getting up and bouncing towards the dark purple demoness, levitating a bit due to flapping her wings so much in excitement.
"Hello, Toxica," Despair greeted back.
"How did your attack on top of Death Rock Mountain go?" the green demoness wanted to know.
"It was a success. I learned many new spells. But most importantly, I learned a lot more about Twilight Sparkle," Despair answered.
"I still don't understand why you focus so much on her. There are plenty of ponies to play with out there! Why don't you play with them as well?" Toxica wondered.
"I have to destroy Twilight. I have to tear her life to shreds. She needs to suffer. That is most important to me," Despair explained.
"But why? I don't get it. Is mommy telling you to do that?" Toxica asked.
"No... I don't know why I'm hunting her down. It is definitely not because of my host. I could not care less about her. She was nothing but food to me. Still, I just feel the need to make Twilight suffer," the dark purple demoness replied.
"So mommy is not talking to you? That's weird. I talk with mommy pretty often. I just wished she would let me go outside. It is sooooooo boring here! All I ever get to play with are stupid zombies. I want some fresh ponies as playmates!" Toxica complained.
"You know your role and purpose. You will just have to wait, like all of us," Despair explained.
"Yeah, I know. But what is your purpose, Despy? Why did mommy make you?" the little green demoness wondered.
"If only I knew... Ever since I was born, Queen Nightmare Moon did not speak to me anymore. I get no orders from her, no corrections. No matter what I do, she stays silent..." Despair replied.
"Well none of us exist for no reason. We are all part of her big plan. I guess you will just have to wait as well," Toxica analyzed.
"I can't wait. I have to keep going. Twilight Sparkle must suffer and I will put all I got into making her do just that," Despair replied with a determined expression.
After saying that, she went on her way again. She needed to go another platform lower to meet up with the oldest of all demons. ---
Time passed by and Despair returned to Tartarus again. This time, she was accompanied by Slendermane, holding a young stallion called Snails in the black arms coming out of his back.
"What is this place?! What are you doing with me?! Let me go!" Snails shouted.
Slendermane and Despair exchanged a few glances. It seemed like they were communicating without words.
"I think Toxica will enjoy this gift. Let's see if she can make him give birth to another demon," Despair stated.
Slendermane nodded in response, then started walking down the bone ramps. Not much later, screams began to fill the stronghold, combined with the childlike laughter of Toxica. Despair grinned maliciously, relishing the sound of agony. But her grin quickly became replaced with an expression of disappointment.
"It still wasn't enough? You still won't talk to me, my queen? I don't even know if what I do is right or wrong," she spoke to herself.
Hanging her head, Despair slowly trotted through the masses of demons. Most of them were just waiting for their time to come. They all had their purpose and knew exactly what they were needed for. This is why waiting did not matter to them. They knew that they definitely would be needed by Nightmare Moon, since not a single demon existed for no reason.
But Despair was different. She was born not knowing why she was needed. She existed without knowing her purpose. Did she even have one? Why would the demon queen even bother to give her a name then? There were hundreds of thousands of regular demons. None of them had names. Only the fewest ones, the unique ones, had their own names. Why had Nightmare Moon made her unique? Why did she have a name? What was she needed for?
Slowly, the grin returned on Despair's face. If her queen would not tell her what her purpose was, she would just prove she could find it out on her own. Unless her queen would tell her to stop, she would continue to stalk Twilight and Spike. The demoness needed to make the purple mare lose everything that was dear to her. Despair was already working on a plan to achieve just that. Soon, she would take a big step and finally get to taste a soul again. ---
Once again, the dark purple demoness returned home from yet another mission involving Twilight and Spike. This time, she had really outdone herself. Due to the situation she just set up, Twilight would think she had just beaten Spike and the baby dragon would lose any appreciation for ponies. A huge fight was sure to erupt between them, ultimately causing Spike to abandon pony-kind. Once that moment came, she would come to get him to make absolutely sure he would never be able to return to Twilight and fix the situation.
Despair was walking through Tartarus, sunken in her plans and trying to figure out how she could give the purple mare the final blow. But then, Slendermane appeared next to her.
The two demons looked at each other for a brief moment. Then, Despair began to grin.
"Is that so? Changelings sure are persistent creatures. Once they find a good food source, they do whatever they can to claim it. When do you think will they start gathering up in Equestria?" she spoke.
Again, Slendermane focused Despair with his missing face, seemingly talking to her.
"I see. And their queen will come as well," Despair commented.
Slendermane nodded shortly, then turned his head to look towards the center of the stronghold.
"Oh I think they can be of much better use than that," the dark purple demoness seemed to reply.
The tall, faceless demon turned his head back to Despair.
"No demon has ever tasted the soul of a changeling. We are getting very close to completing our queen's plan. Perhaps devouring them would make us much stronger and give us more advantages than letting them attack Equestria," she stated.
Slendermane seemed to be unsure, but kept staring at the dark purple demoness.
"Do you not trust the sharp wits of the second corrupted star?" Despair wondered with a sinister grin.
After staring at her for a moment, Slendermane nodded in understanding and disappeared in the shadows. It was decided. She would plan and lead the onslaught on the changelings and get the honor to feast on the changeling queen's soul. But it would still take months before they could attack and Despair was looking forward to taste a different soul first. --
Weeks later, Toxica became tired of hanging around the breeding grounds. As much as she enjoyed torturing the undead ponies and their pain filled moans in response, it just started to get really boring. So, the little green demoness bounced all the way up and down the stronghold, looking for interesting things to play with. Finally, she discovered a small stream of blood flowing through the bones and slime of the highest platform. Over a time span of several hours, she formed a little channel for the blood to flow down to the platform below, where she made a hole to let it gather up.
Toxica kept on walking between these two platforms, adjusting the tiny river she made and watched as the pool of blood filled up. As it grew big enough, she decided to jump into it. Acting like a little foal out on a rainy day, she jumped and splashed around in the blood as if it was a puddle.
Since there is no such thing as a day and night cycle in a demon stronghold, Toxica couldn't tell for how long she had been playing. To her, it just felt like a few minutes. But as she spotted Despair covered in blood and walking down the bone ramps, feasting on a purple scaled corpse, she realized a lot of time must have passed.
"Hey, Despy! So that is Spike? Can I try some?" Toxica wondered.
Without saying a word, Despair ripped off the leg from the almost completely eaten torso and handed it over. Toxica pounced the leg, grabbing it with her fangs, pinning it down on the ground and mangled it like a wild beast. The fresh dragon blood mixed with the slowly drying blood on her face. As nothing but the bone was left anymore, she lifted her head again.
"Yummy! Dragons are delicious!" she commented.
"His soul was even better. So bitter-sweet, full of sorrow and agony," Despair commented.
After another bite, she was down to only one claw. But she figured she should not eat it as well right now. She might be able to use it for shocking purpose. So instead, she stored it in the heart-shaped hole in her chest.
As Despair continued her walk, Toxica followed. Not much later, they stopped again and stared at the floor. The stronghold warden did not let them wait for very long and began to crawl out of the ground, glancing back at Despair.
Both demons looked at each other for a moment, again seemingly communicating with no need for words. Then, the warden started climbing up and Despair turned back around.
"So its gonna happen now? You are attacking the changelings?" Toxica wondered.
"Not yet. The changelings in Great Valley are just scouts. We need to wait for their queen to come. Then, they will start building hives. For now, I need to go to stronghold Irkalla," Despair replied.
"Can I come with you?" the little green demoness asked.
"No," Despair answered.
"Aw, come on! I have never been outside of Tartarus in all my life! I'm so bored! Please let me kill some changelings! Please, please, please!" Toxica begged.
"You can't leave Tartarus yet. Your existence must remain a secret until the time you are needed comes. I can't let you devour a changeling soul either. You must stay exactly the way you are," Despair explained.
"But I... Oh, okay. Nevermind it! Mommy thinks you are right and told me to stay!" the green demoness suddenly stated.
"So...Queen Nightmare Moon thinks I am right..." Despair spoke, looking at the slimy bone floor.
"She's still not talking to you?" Toxica wondered.
"No. But it does not matter. Regardless of her speaking to me or not, I am her child. I will keep destroying and killing, no matter what happens. She does not need to tell me what to do. I can be efficient on my own without any commands," Despair answered, raising her head again.
"Whatever mommy is planning with you, I'm sure you are doing great! Hey! When you come back, can you bring me a changeling corpse?" Toxica requested.
"I can arrange that. Well, it is time for me to go now. Irkalla is waiting on my orders," Despair announced and started walking.
"Bye, Despy! Have fun!" Toxica spoke, waving goodbye with her right front leg. ---
Months passed by and with Despair's absence, Toxica started to get really bored. All the other, common demons were not very talkaktive or interested in playing. The little green demoness ultimately found a new distraction by pulling on the stronghold warden's tentacles and climbing around on him whenever he moved out of his hiding spot. He, however, did not react to this at all. He just tolerated Toxica and her unique personality like all demons tolerate each other and simply ignored everything she did.
One day, the warden climbed up to the ceiling of the stronghold. Toxica took this as an amusing rodeo ride. As he finished hiding himself again, Toxica spent days jumping from tentacle to tentacle. Since she had wings and could fly, the green demoness kept walking upside down on the ceiling between the flying demons waiting up there. It seemed like an eternity when Despair finally returned to Tartarus, causing Toxica to instantly fly over to her.
"Welcome home, Despy! How did it go?" she greeted.
"It was way too easy. I am actually disappointed. We caught them completely unprepared. Not even Queen Chrysalis turned out to be a challenge of any sort. I hoped that, since she had so much power, she would provide a good fight. But no. Oh well. All that matters is that I got her soul," Despair replied.
"Alright then! Did you think about my changeling corpse?" Toxica wondered.
"Of course," the dark purple demoness replied.
Using a spell, she lifted a dead changeling into the air and made it land next to Toxica.
"Yay!" she cheered and pounced the body, starting to tear it apart.
While the green demoness was busy, Despair started analyzing and testing her body. Without the need of magic, she could turn her left front leg into a claw and form it back.
"Interesting. I am starting to change," she commented with a sinister grin.
After letting her glance wander through Tartarus for a moment, Despair turned around again and started walking.
"You are going again? Already?" Toxica wondered with her mouth full of slimy green changeling flesh.
"Now that this is done, I need to get back to terrorizing Twilight Sparkle. My influence over her keeps growing stronger with every day that passes. I have been sending her subliminal messages during my absence. By now, her mind should be very weak. It won't take long anymore before I can let her go through hell and hopefully make her give birth to another demon. But I am still missing pieces in this puzzle. I don't know every aspect of her soul yet," Despair replied.
"I heard rumors that the reapers declared crisis state in Equestria. They will be guarding the keepers of harmony like a national treasure," Toxica mumbled while feasting.
"Oh, don't worry about them," Despair answered. "Twilight's bodyguard will be no issue for me. The changeling queen may have been a pathetic fighter, but the power I got from devouring her soul will serve me well."
With these words, she left the stronghold again. ---
"It is about time now," the dark purple demoness stated to a small group of low ranked shadow demons a few days later. "We are almost ready for my plan. I only need a few more memories. Then, I know everything about her and our bond will become unbreakable. I can finally show her the truth and awaken her from this dream. Oh, how I will enjoy this. All this waiting, hiding and avoiding has been such a tease."
"So you plan to use an illusion spell and force a bond on her? I can't say I have ever heard of a demon going this far to torture just a single worthless pony. Well, what do you want us to do?" one of the shadows wondered.
"You all know what to do. Don't forget, you mustn't be sensed or seen. And you mustn't harm her. We need her alive," Despair explained.
"I wonder what Queen Nightmare Moon is thinking about you wasting so much energy on a keeper of harmony. We don't even need to do anything with them. Very soon, Celestia herself will get two of them killed, which we arranged to happen. I don't get why you are still so obsessed to break their leader," another shadow stated.
"You dare to doubt my plans, underling? Don't forget whom you are talking to! I am the second corrupted star! It was me who planned and executed the attack on the changelings! And it was me who defeated and devoured Queen Chrysalis! You will follow my order, in the name of our queen! Did I make myself clear?" Despair spoke harshly.
"Yes. Of course," the whole group replied.
"Good," the dark purple demoness stated.
"Out of curiosity: What would you do if Twilight Sparkle gets rescued? Right now, the elements of harmony are still working. Celestia and the reapers will do everything they can to save her. I know we are just low-ranked demons and don't know every detail about the great plan, but it really makes me wonder if this is really so necessary," a third shadow spoke.
"Our queen depends on me and the other corrupted stars. Her plan is perfect. We calculated everything to the smallest detail. As long as all of us follow this plan, nothing can go wrong," Despair explained.
"True," the first shadow commented.
"Now, you all will wait here. I need to gather the last pieces of this puzzle," the dark purple demoness spoke and turned around. ---
Nearly two weeks passed. Toxica once again found herself bored and looking for something to play with. The changeling shell acted as a great costume for her, but her reckless playing ultimately destroyed it.
Toxica flew down to the very bottom of the seemingly endless pit of the stronghold, searching around in total darkness. But even though demons can see perfectly in the dark, she found nothing of interest. So she flew back up, until she landed on the lowest platform of the stronghold again.
It was now that she spotted Despair, looking at a pony. This sight confused her so much, she just had to investigate. After a short run, she stopped right next to them. The pony was a purple mare, holding a piece of pony skin with her front legs and pretending to read it like a book. She was completely calm, as if she didn't care about the fact that she was in the middle of the most dangerous demon stronghold in Equestria.
"Despy? Is that Twilight Sparkle? What is she doing here?" Toxica wondered.
"Ah. There you are. I brought her here for a special ceremony I prepared. I guess you do remember that I wanted to make her suffer and take everything away from her. I now found a way to pull this off smoothly while making sure no pony will interfere," Despair replied.
"Really? What do you plan to do?" the green demoness wondered.
"Since the moment I was born, Twilight Sparkle and I had a very strong connection. The more memories and knowledge I stole from her, the more I realized that this connection kept getting stronger. I put her under the most powerful illusion spell I know. Right now, she thinks she is in Ponyville, reading a book in her library while Spike is assisting her. I made her believe that Maledictum Insania, demons, reapers and all bad things were just a nightmare she had. I even went so far as to use the identity of my host to gain her trust. I built up a little paradise in her mind, which I will force Twilight to destroy again. I will infiltrate her mind from the inside by possessing her and keep traumatizing her until she falls so deep into insanity's grip, she gives birth to a demon," Despair explained.
"That sounds like a lot of fun! I will so watch all that!" Toxica announced.
"No. You need to leave," the dark purple demoness disagreed.
"Leave? Why? What do you mean?" Toxica wondered.
"There is a good chance that we will soon get some unwelcome guests. We can't take the risk of you getting seen. You need to move to stronghold Duat," Despair explained.
"Having to wait for your purpose can be so boring..." the little green demoness spoke in disappointment.
"You will get to play, kill and destroy soon enough. For now, it is all about my purpose," Despair replied.
"You think you know it now? What is it?" Toxica wondered.
"All the time, Queen Nightmare Moon never disagreed with my actions about Twilight. No matter if I can make her give birth to a demon or if I have to devour her, her soul must belong to the demons. I do believe this is the reason why I exist. Anyway, you have to go now. Slendermane will bring you to Duat," Despair stated.
"Okay then. Bye, Despy!" Toxica spoke and bounced away.
Now, Despair began to grin again. With a simple spell, she made a potion bottle appear and let it levitate down to her chest. Slowly, the blood flowing out of the heart-shaped hole filled the bottle. Then, Despair closed it by magic and started approaching Twilight.
"Ah! Good afternoon, my darling!" Despair spoke, using Moondancer's voice.
"Oh. Hi," Twilight said in response, an expression of insecurity written on her face.
Despair stepped next to Twilight letting the potion bottle levitate in front of Twilight's face.
"Zecora said this should help you," the dark purple demoness spoke.
"Thanks..." Twilight replied, then opened the bottle and drank the content.
Despair observed with a victorious grin on her face. Her essence just became a part of Twilight Sparkle. With this act, their bond was perfected and no force in this world would ever be able to break it entirely. Only a few more talks and acts were needed. Then, she would possess Twilight Sparkle and drive her to insanity. ---
"No! No! Noooo!" Despair shouted.
It was no use. The arcane bolt hit her with full force, sending her flying. That was it. The battle was over. This last strike had robbed her of all her strength.
While Despair flew through the air and towards the force field she set up, everything seemed to be in slow motion. Her face did not show pain or frustration, but disappointment. She was disappointed about herself, about being unable to prove her queen that she could fulfill her purpose.
Despair knew that this was the end. As soon as she would hit the force field, it would shatter and free Twilight Sparkle and her friends. She had failed. She couldn't destroy her nemesis. All she managed to do was to disappoint her queen. Nightmare Moon must have been disappointed with her the whole time, since she did not even bother to speak to her. But now, it didn't matter anymore. In a few moments, she would be consumed and thus forced back to her pre-birth state of existence.
"Hint on the legend of the corrupted stars."
Suddenly, while Despair was still flying through the air in slow motion, her sinister grin returned. Just now, just when she thought she had failed, she got an order from Queen Nightmare Moon. It all became clear now. All the time, it never was about Twilight Sparkle. Nightmare Moon never spoke to her because she wanted to test her. Despair had to prove she could make the right decisions without any orders. After all the doubts, she ultimately understood her purpose.
Time seemed to move normally again and Despair crashed through the force field, hitting a rock. She was completely unable to move, but kept grinning weakly the whole time. After a while, she was lifted up by Obsidian Shards.
"What are you waiting for, Obsidian? Consume me," she demanded.
"What are you demons planning? Why did you erase the changelings?" Obsidian asked.
Despair started laughing weakly. They thought they had her defeated, but the truth was that she did everything right. It did not matter what would happen to her anymore. She had fulfilled her purpose.
"It's not like you could stop us anymore anyway. Queen Nightmare Moon's plan has proceeded way too far now. We will win," Despair explained.
"Nightmare Moon has a plan?!" Derpy Hooves shouted in shock.
"Tehe... you reapers really are such fools. Almost one thousand years of planning had passed and you never saw the signs up until now? Do you still not understand who I actually am? I am the second corrupted star," Despair continued, the victorious grin returning to her face.
"The second... you mean... the legend of the corrupted stars..." Obsidian concluded, with a shock filled expression on his face.
Despair started giggling again, amused by Obsidian's expression. Then her eyes jumped over to Twilight and her friends.
"Hey, keepers of harmony. Don't think it ends here. No. The war has just begun. You think you defeated our queen? You freed her! Everything you did up until now only delayed the day of your downfall. Every last of your actions only supported us! The fact that I ended up defeated now only means my role in our queen's plan is done. Now, go ahead, Obsidian. Consume me. I got nothing more to say to you traitors. May the demon queen let you suffer for all eternity," she finished.
"Any final words, Twilight?" Obsidian questioned.
"Yes... there is something I want to say... but it's not meant for you, Despair," the purple mare spoke, with a sad expression. "Moondancer... Spike... I know you are in there somewhere. I'm sorry I couldn't save you... I'm so sorry this happened to you. But now, I avenged both of you. I can only hope you will be able to forgive me. I will never forget you two. Never."
"They can't hear you, you stupid pony. They don't even really exist anymore," Despair spoke as her final words.
Now, the black stallion dissolved into a black cloud and clustered around the demoness. She could feel how her physical appearance slowly became destroyed and sealed inside Obsidian Shards.
"Well done."
The voice of Queen Nightmare Moon was the last thing Despair heard. After that, everything became black again. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Arrangements | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 10: Arrangements
The police officers of Manehattan had every reason to celebrate. All their detention cells were full of cultists. So far, they were pretty successful in fighting back these reckless and brutal Nightmare Moon worshipers. Today alone, they caught a whole group of them, who were just about to attack some innocent mares. If it hadn't been for Babs Seed's commitment, one of them might have gotten hurt.
The young police trainee was the talk of the night as the work shift for the daytime officers ended and they met up with the night shift officers. Everypony could only agree that Babs had a lot of talent and did everything with all her heart. She was very eager to learn and worked very hard. In fact, they actually had to slow her down sometimes, which is why they let her go home early today. Little did they know that this decision just saved her life.
Right in the middle of the meeting room, one officer suddenly started bleeding from his chest, falling over dead moments later. While the other officers watched in shock, three more suddenly got their throats slit.
Everything happened very fast. Batons and knives swung through the air. Blood splattered on the walls. As it got quiet again, only five blood-soaked ponies were still standing.
"This is what you get, heretics," one of them spoke.
"Good. Now get the keys," another ordered.
Calmly but keeping a good pace, the five officers went to the detention section. On their way there, they were met by a reaper, blocking the path. This, though, was something they knew would happen. He had been watching the cultists ever since the BloodClaw Cult started showing itself.
The reaper lifted his scythe to strike, but the officers just kept standing there calmly. Suddenly, a long arm with bladed claws grew out of the back of the frontmost officer, pinning the scythe against the wall. Out of this moment of distraction, the other officers charged him, forcing the cursed stallion into an unarmed battle. It didn't take long for them to pin him down and shackle him.
As the reaper struggled to break free and looked up, he saw a huge fanged mouth opening at the stomach of the disguised skin-walker who disarmed him. Directly after, it bit his head off.
While the demon was busy devouring the reaper, the undercover cultists opened the detention cells. None of the cultists were surprised about this rescue mission. They knew Nightmare Moon would send one of her children for their protection. As soon as the last cell opened, the cultists gathered up in front of the skin-walker, bowing down before it.
"Thank you for saving us, my lord," one of them spoke.
Not replying to them, the demon took the form of the reaper it had just devoured. The four cultists who had been participating in the rescue mission changed their outfits and gathered shackles, which they then put on their fellow cultists front legs.
"The transportation cart is waiting on the back door. Just act as if you would be going to your execution and we will get out of here no problem," an officer spoke.
"We should kill Babs Seed, too. The less police ponies there are around, the easier it is for us," another suggested.
"We have use for this pony. Ignore her," the skin-walker commanded.
"As you wish, my lord," the officer responded. ---
The weather patrol of Manehattan had been clustering up clouds above the city all day long and waited for the sun to set before they would unleash the rain. Twilight and her friends arrived at Babs' apartment just in time before the storm began. The teenager did not lie when she claimed to have plenty of space. The apartment consisted of six rooms and she still had very little furniture, leaving most of them nearly empty. The only room which was relatively stuffed was the living room, as there were pictures, notes, newsletters and red strings connecting everything hanging everywhere.
"C'mon in! Make yaself at home!" Babs Seed invited.
"Thanks, sugarcube. Wow... Land sakes, Babs! How can you afford this place? Is the pay really that good?" Applejack wondered.
"Well, no... Let's just say some ponies thought they owed me a favor," the teenager explained.
"A favor? What kind of favor?" Rarity wondered.
"A while ago, I saved a little colt from some robbers in a backstreet. Turns out he was the son of some rich guy from Las Pegasus. I told him I didn't need any reward and that I was just doin' my job. But when he heard that I wanted to move out, he insisted on givin' me a check. So, yeah. He gave me enough to pay the bills until I'm done with training and get the full paycheck," Babs summarized.
"Is that legal? Taking such a large amount as a police officer?" Twilight questioned.
"My employer said, as long as I made sure it was a one-time-only thing and there's no deal involved, it doesn't fall under bribing. Guess the laws in Equestria support generosity," the teenager answered with a shrug.
"That sounds suspicious," Fluttershy whispered to her mentor.
"Indeed. I will pay her police station a visit and see what is up with this. You stay with your friends and guard them," Crystal whispered back, then turned to the group. "Apologies for leaving you so suddenly now, but I have some tasks I need to take care of. Expect me back in two hours."
"Alright then," Twilight replied, then started walking to the living room.
While the elder reaper left again, Rarity finally got to finish her newspapers. With a bit of disappointment, she used her magic to neatly fold it back together.
"They don't even have anything interesting in the gossip column. How boring," she commented.
Just as she was about to place it down, the papers caught Babs' attention.
"Hold on... Are ya done with that?" she wondered, walking over to Rarity.
"Oh, yes. You can have it," the white mare replied, handing the newspapers over by magic.
Babs quickly read through the headline. Then she suddenly ran to the living room, picked up a pair of scissors and began to cut it out.
"What's all this anyway?" Twilight wondered as she looked around.
"Something I'm doing in my freetime. As part of my training, I sometimes get to help in ascertainments. I started my own little investigation for practise," Babs mumbled with the scissors handle in her mouth.
"And what are ya tryin' to find out, sugarcube?" Applejack wondered.
"There's been a series of celebrity disappearances goin' on for a while now. From what I could track so far, it seems to have started with the top model Fleur De Lis and her friend Fancy Pants," the teenager answered.
"Wait, what?! Fancy Pants?!" Rarity shouted in shock.
"Yeah... That poor guy was found stabbed to death in the dark streets of Canterlot. They still couldn't find any trace of Fleur De Lis, though," Babs explained.
"Fancy is... dead. Oh my stars. I... I had no idea..." the white mare stated speechlessly with tears in her eyes, covering her mouth with her right front leg.
"Ya were friends with him, weren't ya...?" Babs wondered.
"Yes... It had been a long time, but we planned to meet up again... So that is why he never replied to my letters... I just thought he wasn't interested in talking to me anymore... I got so upset with him..." Rarity answered, using her magic to let a napkin fly over to her.
"Sorry..." the teenage filly spoke meekly.
A moment of silence passed while Fluttershy, Twilight and Applejack embraced the fashion diva, trying to soothe her again. Babs at first didn't really know what to do, but then decided to pin up the cutout along with her other notes.
"Well, as I said, that was just the beginnin'. Several more famous ponies disappeared all over Equestria and aside of Fancy Pants, only one turned up again so far: Soarin from the Wonderbolts. He got stabbed as well," she continued.
"Not even the Wonderbolts are safe... Shoot..." Twilight commented.
"Yeah... So far, this whole case confuses me. At first, I thought whoever is behind this was only after famous male ponies. But then I found out about Fleur. It doesn't add up," Babs stated.
"Perhaps she was just at the wrong place at the wrong time," the purple mare figured.
"Maybe..." the teenager replied.
While Babs sunk into her notes and Rarity tried to get a hold of herself again, Twilight went to her luggage and opened it. Using her magic, she made her pill bottle fly out of it, opened the lid and let two pills levitate out, which she then swallowed with a small bottle of apple juice. Twilight was about to pack up again when she saw something outside.
As the purple mare stepped to the window, she went wide-eyed at the sight presented to her. Playing in the rain, there were two little fillies and a colt wearing Cutie Mark Crusader capes.
"Girls! Look at this!" she announced.
Everypony became curious now and clustered up at the window. Babs Seed was the only one not deeply surprised by these children.
"How can there be Cutie Mark Crusaders here?!" Applejack wondered.
"Hehe. Some things can become pretty successful here in Manehattan. When I was a filly, I looked around for more members. The idea of a club of blank flanks helping each other discovering their destinies became a great hit! Now, there are crusaders all over Manehattan and I heard it's spreadin' on other cities, too! Man... that sight makes me nostalgic," Babs explained.
The expression of positive surprise suddenly vanished from Applejack's face. She knew exactly what the teenager would be saying next.
"How's Applebloom doin' by the way? I'm surprised you didn't tell me anythin' about her, yet," Babs wondered.
Immediately, Applejack hung her head and let out a sigh.
"Ah suppose I can't avoid that topic forever..." she started, turning around to the teenage filly. "Well... Babs..."
"Don't tell me she..." Babs started.
"I'm sorry... but yeah... She passed away..." Applejack finished.
"H...How? When?" the teenager wanted to know.
"About three years ago... Sorry nopony told you sooner... But believe me, sugarcube. Ya don't wanna know the details..." the orange mare explained.
She was about to give Babs a hug when the teenager pushed her front legs away. She had tears in her eyes and a very angered expression. Then suddenly, she turned around started and walking aimlessly across the room.
"Oh for the love of Pete! How I hate the darn poor communication in Equestria! It's so easy to miss out on big events! I can't believe I never got a letter about Applebloom after I got all those other letters!" she started shouting.
"Other... letters?" Applejack wondered, not sure if she truly wanted to know more.
"See? That's just what I'm talkin' about!" Babs screamed while the tears rolled down her face. "Three days ago, I got one tellin' me Uncle Apple Strudel was killed by somepony, right in the middle of the street! The next day, I find out the same thing happened to Apple Dumpling and Braeburn! Those got to me in just a few hours! But to find out about Applebloom, I had to wait three years! What the hay is goin' on with Equestria?!"
Everypony except of Fluttershy had shock written on their faces. Applejack needed a moment for this information to sink in. But once it did, she suddenly began to breathe very heavily in a mix of panic and desperation.
"Wha... What? B-Braeburn? Apple Strudel? Apple Dumpling?!" she spoke in disbelief.
"Oh no... Those are too many to be just a coincidence..." Fluttershy commented.
"What do you mean, Fluttershy?" Rarity wondered.
"The cult is openly attacking Equestria now... But for so many members of Applejack's family to get killed so soon... I'm so sorry, but this can't be just bad luck... The cult is trying to root out the apple family..." the yellow mare explained.
"No... No... This can't be happenin'... Not mah family... " the orange mare spoke, shaking all over.
"Now let's not jump to conclusions like tha-" Twilight started before getting interrupted again.
"Big Macintosh!" Applejack shouted and jumped back up on her legs. "Ah need to get back to Ponyville right this instant!"
She was already running to the front door when she became stopped by Fluttershy and Rarity.
"Darling! Don't rush it like that! Us splitting up and becoming easy prey is just what they want!" the fashion diva tried to reason.
"Ah don't give a damn right now! I just need to get back to Sweet Apple Acres and check on my brother, stat!" Applejack shouted, struggling to get past.
"Please, Applejack. This is a very bad idea. Knowing the cult, they probably set up an ambush," Fluttershy spoke.
Applejack did not respond and just kept fighting against her friends grips. Twilight's eyes jumped between her and Babs Seed, who still was walking up and down with tear trails and a furious, desperate expression on her face. She seemed to be more stable than Applejack right now, so Twilight teleported in front of her friend.
"Applejack. Please, snap out of it. We can't afford to be this irrational right now! How about this? You stay here and calm down for a moment while I send an express request to Princess Celestia and ask her to let Derpy check on your brother," she suggested.
Now, Applejack stopped struggling and slowly sat down to the ground, though she was still crying and shaking all over.
"Okay... But please be quick, sugarcube. Ah won't be able to sleep tonight if ah don't know if my brother is alright," she agreed. ---
Not even half an hour after the letter was sent, Twilight already got a reply from Princess Celestia. Applejack was so worried, she nearly tore the letter out of Twilight's grip. But soon, the purple mare could sigh in relief.
"Okay. Don't worry, Applejack. Your brother is fine. Everything is quiet and peaceful in Ponyville. No signs of cultists anywhere. Princess Celestia also promised to increase the security in all cities with still living members of your family in. She even sent another reaper to Ponyville to make absolutely sure your brother stays safe," Twilight announced.
Applejack instantly collapsed to the ground and sighed loudly.
"Thank Celestia... Ah can't believe it... Mah family is dyin' out there and Ah am sittin' here, twiddlin' mah hooves..." she commented.
"As much as you would like to, you can't just run off and try to solve this on your own. You will only get killed. The best way to help your family is by stopping the BloodClaw Cult with us," Fluttershy explained.
For a while everypony just became silent. By now, Babs Seed calmed down a bit and just sat down on the floor, staring at it sunken in thoughts with an angry expression. Then, Crystal Blossom finally returned. She was about to speak out her findings in front of the entire group, but after seeing the scene in front of her, she decided to instead wave Twilight over to her.
"What is it?" the purple mare wondered.
"The situation is getting out of control. I just paid Babs' police station a visit, only to find a massacre. All of her colleagues were murdered and the captured cultists freed. I even found the remains of a reaper," Crystal whispered.
Twilight sighed in response. This all started to weigh on her heavily, too.
"More great news... We just found out that the BloodClaw Cult is erasing Applejack's family. They really try to tear apart Equestria's organization and lure us out of our reserves," she spoke.
"I hate to say it, Twilight. But this has officially become too big for us to handle. Just the few of us will not be enough to stop the cult. We need help," the elder reaper mare stated.
"I completely agree with you. Thanks for handling this information so discretely. They badly need some good news now," Twilight spoke, then turned to her friends. "Alright, girls. Enough is enough! The cult really crossed the line now! If they want to play this out Equestria-wide, then we will do just the same! I will request Princess Celestia to host Tripudium Messōrum again. We are going to get every support available!"
"Now that sounds like a plan. Right, Applejack?" Rarity spoke in a motivating tone.
Applejack nodded in response, not yet able to speak freely again after that shock.
"Tripudium Messōrum...?" Babs wondered in the background.
"The dance of the reapers. Basically, a giant meeting of all reapers in existence on top of Death Rock Mountain," Twilight explained.
"That sounds interesting... Wished I could come with ya. I badly would need some distraction, but I have to work," the teenage filly commented.
"I can arrange things for you. We would be honored to welcome you on our dance," Crystal suggested.
"Really? Ya could do that?" Babs wondered, getting a bit excited again.
"Certainly. In your current emotional state, you would not be able to give your all at work anyway. I will arrange you a few days off. For what I understand, you exceed their expectations anyway. It will not be a problem," the reaper mare explained.
"Wow... I gotta get some reaper friends, I think," Babs spoke, smirking a bit. "Thanks for the invitation. Do I need to prepare for anything?"
"Leave the preparations to me. For now, I would suggest all of you to rest. You seem exhausted," Crystal spoke.
"Sounds like a good idea. Come on, darling. Let us set up our beds," Rarity spoke.
The fashion diva lifted Applejack back on her legs and walked off with her, followed by Babs Seed. As soon as they were out of hearing range, Twilight turned to Crystal Blossom.
"How do you plan to work this out with Babs?" Twilight whispered.
"She is very adult for her age and nothing hurts more than being lied to by those you trust. I will tell her the truth, but not now. Let her regain some strength first," the light blue mare explained.
"You know, the more time we spend together, the more I have to say I am very glad you joined us," the purple mare commented.
"Your words are honoring me, Twilight," Crystal replied, bowing down.
Twilight smiled lightly in response. She, too, was about to turn around and walk away, but she found herself sinking in thoughts again. Twilight just couldn't help herself. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn't figure out why Crystal felt so familiar to her. Even though they just knew each other for roughly a month by now, it felt like she had seen this mare before.
It just wouldn't let her go. At some point very soon, she would have to ask Crystal about it. But not today anymore. The purple mare had heard enough shocking things for one day. She needed some recovery herself.
"Well, I will go and write that letter then. I should also make sure Big Macintosh is guarded during the absence of the reapers. While I'm at it, I also should write to my parents. I don't think the cult would dare to get this close to Canterlot Castle as they are living, but you can't be too careful as long as they are around. Good night, Crystal," Twilight spoke.
"Good night," the reaper mare replied. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Gathering | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 11: Gathering
Four days later at sunset, the keepers of harmony, Crystal Blossom and Babs Seed found themselves climbing up the infamous Death Rock Mountain again. The wind kept blowing strongly and the ponies had to watch their steps, since erosion had loosened many sharp rocks. Nearly all of them had been through this experience before, so they were rather confident this time. Only Babs seemed to be unsure and scared.
"I heard the rumors about this place. That cloud up there is deadly poison and we seriously are gonna go in there?!" she wondered.
"Do not be worried. I brought four potions which will make you immune to the poison plus an extra one as safety precaution," Crystal replied.
"Wait a moment... Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, you, me... I don't know about ya, but I come up with six ponies here! We don't have enough potions!" Babs worried.
"Reapers are not ponies. We don't work like you do. What would usually kill has next to no effect on us and we have a naturally given resistance to all forms of poison or disease," Fluttershy explained.
"Wow. Now that's cool! Maybe I should become a reaper myself!" the teenager figured.
"The powers of a reaper come with a big price. You lose control over your life and become a servant of Mistress Celestia. You will have to fight and see things no pony is meant to face. The existence as a reaper is defined by obedience, loyalty, harshness and suffering," Crystal stated.
"Oh... On second thought, maybe I should rethink that idea. What do ya think, AJ?" Babs wondered.
Applejack did not respond. Since she found out her family was being hunted down by the BloodClaw Cult, she suddenly had stopped speaking. Her eyes were constantly glued to the ground with a saddened expression.
All her friends were deeply worried about the orange mare. She had already gone through a lot and the last four years were the toughest she had lived through so far. Yet, there was hardly anything they could do. As long as the cult kept on killing members of the apple family, her situation would only get worse. The only hope they had was to eliminate the cult before it would be too late.
"Applejack... We can do this... okay? Think positive," Twilight spoke softly while placing a hoof on the orange mare's back.
"Hm..." was all she got as a response.
The group continued climbing until they were half way up the mountain. Then, Twilight, Applejack, Rarity and Babs Seed drank their antidotes. ---
Another half hour passed until the group finally arrived at the top of Death Rock Mountain. They had nearly forgotten how bitter and rough to the lungs the poison was. Especially Babs Seed needed a lot of time to catch her breath again, feeling how the antidote struggled with the poison. But ultimately, they all gained immunity and slowly began to see through the dark green and gray cloud.
"I wonder if Lady Truesight was the first to arrive again," Fluttershy spoke.
"She always is, apprentice," Crystal stated. "This is how she introduced herself to us after she became cursed and by now, she made it reaper tradition to be the first each and every Tripudium Messōrum."
"Oh, right! I nearly forgot about her! Let's go and say hello to her!" Twilight suggested.
"Who's this Lady Truesight ya're talkin' about?" Babs wondered.
"She is an incredibly talented clairvoyant, darling. If it wasn't for her ability to predict the future, we would not have been able to save Equestria three years ago," Rarity explained.
"Oh gosh! I totally keep forgettin' ya are the keepers of harmony! I'm so silly," the teenage filly stated.
"It's fine, Babs," Twilight spoke. "But now that I think of it, what is up with ponies constantly forgetting what we have done? I mean, come on. We defeated Nightmare Moon, saved Equestria from eternal night, defeated Discord, helped to stop the changeling invasion, defeated King Sombra... I honestly don't mean to brag here. I'm just very confused that, even though thousands have seen us during special celebrations and we had been in the newspapers all over Equestria several times, nopony seems to remember who we are."
"Allow me to explain," Crystal offered. "It is out of question that you are the greatest heroines this land had ever seen. But despite your heroic actions and all your great deeds, Mistress Celestia acknowledges that you just want to live as regular subjects. She makes sure that you are celebrated, but not constantly forced into the spotlight. If it wasn't for her influence, you would not even be able to walk down the streets without getting crowded by fans all the time."
"How does she do that?" Babs wondered.
"The same way she had always done it: By constantly providing the newspapers new social events and distracting the public with festivals," the elder reaper mare replied.
"Now that makes a lot of sense! Although, I must say, I would enjoy the idea to be admired by everypony around me," Rarity stated, throwing herself into a pose.
"Do we need a repeat of the lesson learned from Rainbow Dash's bragging, Rarity?" Twilight wondered.
"Don't!," Applejack suddenly shouted with a furious expression, causing all of her friends to stop instantly and look at her with wide open eyes. "Don't... ya... dare... to bring her up..."
"Wow, AJ! Calm down! I'm sorry, okay?" Twilight apologized.
Applejack's expression remained furious for a few seconds, but then slipped back into sadness and her focus dropped to the ground again.
"Oh my goodness... Are you okay, Applejack?" Fluttershy worried.
She attempted to approach her friend and place a front leg on her shoulder, but the orange mare just pushed it away and started walking faster. The group wasn't entirely sure what they could do to help her digest the latest developments. It was clear that Applejack was going through a lot of emotions and that every word of loss she heard just hurt her right now. Using only a few exchanged glances and nods, the group came to an agreement to not mention these things around her for a while anymore. ---
An hour had passed since the group arrived and nighttime had begun. So far, they had been welcomed by many reapers they had seen before and gained some informations about the latest turn of events in Equestria. But after a while, they came across a sight which deeply shocked Babs.
"What the... I thought you said ya don't get born as a reaper!" she spoke.
"That is correct," Crystal confirmed.
"Then why are there foals?" the teenager wondered.
As the group turned, they could see about ten very young children wearing reaper cloaks. All of them still had normal clear eyes and no scars.
"We were not born like this. We turned into reapers just a few weeks ago," one of the little colts stated.
"What?! No way! This... this is just wrong! Ya're still so young!" Babs shouted, scandalized.
"They did not have a choice, Babs," Crystal started. "I suppose there is no way around explaining how the reaper curse works. You see, there are 87 reaper cloaks in existence, which contain the curse. Although the hosts of the curse may die under special circumstances, the cloaks themselves can only be destroyed by Mistress Celestia. When a reaper finds their final rest and is not directly replaced by somepony, the cloak will look for a new host on its own. If that happens, they always choose young foals with potential to make sure they grow up with their training and the lifestyle of reapers. Very often, reapers chosen by fate are therefore the most talented among us."
"Oh my gosh... That's just so bad! How can Princess Celestia be okay with this? Why doesn't she just uncurse them?" the teenager asked.
"While Mistress Celestia does have the ability to uncurse reapers, such an action can only be performed by destroying the cloak the foal is wearing. Nopony, not even our mistress, can create new cloaks. So uncursing foals is completely out of question. If she would start doing this, all cloaks would soon be destroyed, extincting reaper-kind and destroying Mistress Celestia's most potent servants," the elder reaper mare continued.
"To put it simple: Everything is a lot more complex than you can currently imagine, Babs," Twilight added. "I know that this is shocking to find out. I was shocked the first time myself. But we have to trust the princesses in making the right decisions. If it wasn't for them, the BloodClaw Cult would be our least concern."
"But I do think that seeing so many young reapers is an alarming sight. That means quite a few of us must have died just recently," Fluttershy commented.
"Indeed, these are dangerous times we are living in. But very soon, it will no longer be just the few of us fighting the cult," Crystal answered.
Twilight, Rarity and Fluttershy nodded in agreement, while Applejack kept on staring at the ground, sunken in thoughts. Babs, though, rather watched the foals with a sad expression. She just couldn't get over the fact that these children had lost their futures and were forced to fight for the rest of their lives. The teenage filly slowly approached the group of reaper foals, faking a smile and gently caressing a few.
"Hey... Hang in there, kiddos, okay? You got this... Good luck," she spoke to them.
"Thank you," one of the reaper fillies spoke and bowed down, the rest of them doing the same. ---
As it got later and later, more and more reapers arrived. For them to meet up all at the same place while they were stationed all over Equestria just days ago needed its time, which the group used to talk with the reapers and learn new things. Among them, they found Derpy Hooves, who re-confirmed that Ponyville is just as peaceful as it had always been. It seemed like the BloodClaw Cult had no interest in a village this small. Finally, the group found the famous reaper clairvoyant they had been searching for all night.
As all grown up reapers, Lady Truesight did not age the least bit since the last time they met. Only a few new scars showed that time had passed by. Just like on their first encounter, she was sitting on the ground in front of a scroll, using her magic to let a quill dance across its surface while a couple of dozen reapers surrounded her.
"Hello, Lady Truesight! It's nice to see you-" Twilight started.
"I wish I could say the same. I do not mean to be disrespectful, but I will not provide my services to you anymore. The words of thanks you were about to speak are appreciated, though," the red mare replied instantly, not even looking up to Twilight Sparkle.
For a moment, the group was speechless. That was not the kind of welcome they expected of a mare who helped them out at a critical moment three years ago. But before any of them could come up with a way to respond to this, Crystal stepped forth.
"We have been over this before, Truesight. They are not to blame for what happened to Obsidian Shards," she spoke.
"Perhaps not. But seeing what getting close to them can cause to even the strongest of us-" the clairvoyant started, now turning towards the elder reaper.
"I honestly must defend their honor here. While I do understand that you are a loner and that you have a strong general distrust towards ponies due to your past, this is no reason to disrespect the keepers of harmony. Especially now, in a critical time like this, we need your help more than ever," Crystal continued.
"Apologies elder, but they currently do not depend on my talent. Since we passed the great gray wall, I am now able to see their future. I will not play a significant role for them anytime soon. Though I have to warn you, Elder Crystal Blossom. The paths you will choose to walk with them will lead to the unknown. Not now, not tomorrow, but in future," Truesight replied.
"Even so, I am ready and willing to go these paths," the elder reaper commented.
"The choice is yours to make, if you wish to believe it or not. But you will see what I mean when the time comes. Now, I beg your pardon, but I will need to predict 27 more futures in just a few minutes. I need to concentrate," the clairvoyant finished, returning her focus to the scroll.
Now, even Crystal gave up arguing and returned to the group. Just as they were about to leave, Lady Truesight spoke up again.
"One advise to you, though, Babs Seed: The day you hear a big explosion, hide yourself in a well-sealed room and wait there for at least three hours. When you do come out, make sure to wear a surgical mask and boots," she spoke.
"Um... how do you know my name?" Babs wondered.
"My talents are not lies. I saw you coming," the clairvoyant replied.
"Well... Okay... But where am I supposed to get a surgical mask from? the teenager wondered.
"It will make sense when the time comes. Just remember my words," Truesight finished.
"Um... Well... Thanks... I guess..." Babs spoke, walking back to the group as well.
It seemed like speaking to the reaper clairvoyant had little point anymore. Feeling slightly upset, Twilight and her friends started walking away. So far, this meeting did not turn out as well as the first one they had been participating in. Babs Seed in particular had no idea what she should make out of all the impressions she gained tonight. After walking for a while, Crystal Blossom stopped and bowed down to the keepers of harmony.
"My sincerest apologies. I honestly believed her attitude would have changed by now," she spoke.
"What was up with that?" Twilight wondered.
"Lady Truesight believes that you are the reason Obsidian Shards turned into a red reaper. She thinks that you gave him no other choice but to let down his guard and made him regain his emotions, which ultimately caused his depression and mental breakdown. She is concerned that any reaper who spends too much time with you will ultimately walk the same path as Obsidian did. She even goes so far as to describe you as a potential risk to recreate Malice," Crystal explained.
"We... I... This... This is just flat out rude! How could she..." Rarity complained in lack of words.
"I know this is harsh, but knowing how her life looked like before she became a reaper makes this more understandable," the light blue reaper mare commented.
"Well, I don't see how any backstory can justify something like that," Twilight commented, still enraged.
"Please. There is no need to get furious at her. Truesight was abandoned by her family at very young age," Crystal started.
"She... oh..." the purple mare commented.
"You can imagine what kind of shock it is for a young filly to be left behind in the north-eastern woods of Equestria and how much this can traumatize. Nopony can really tell why, but it is assumed that she was left behind due to her rainbow mane and tail. It is also not clear if they knew that spectralists could predict the future and therefore found themselves incapable of dealing with her, or if they were just acting out of selfishness and ignorance, assuming her unusual mane color is the result of an affair. However, it is fact that Truesight grew up in complete solitude and far away from any civilization. The only reason she survived was due to her ability to predict the future, allowing her to avoid threats and find food and shelter," Crystal continued.
"Oh my stars... this is awful... How cruel can a pony be? I am at a loss of words," Rarity spoke.
"Um... Hello! I don't understand a thing here! Who's this Obsidian Shards? What's a red reaper? And who the hay is Malice?" Babs wondered.
"Phew... that is a lot to explain... Well, there are a few things we can't tell you because of national secrets. But let's see what we can sort out," Twilight answered.
While the group tried to explain as much as they could to Babs Seed without revealing Maledictum Insania, Fluttershy kept herself in the background all the time. As soon as Obsidian came up, her glance dropped down to the heart pin on her cloak and she began to dive into memories again.
Through the thick poison smoke, the moon could be seen slowly rising to the highest point on the night sky. It would not take long anymore before all reapers would arrive and the dance could begin. ---
In the meantime, four reapers were observing the group from a distance. The keepers of harmony had been talking to them already, just like several other reapers did. But now, the four came together and started whispering.
"They are unaware of us," one spoke, her eyes suddenly starting to glow red.
"Not even the elder reapers can sense us," another added, his eyes as well turning red.
"We can execute the Guillotine's plan," the third disguised skin-walker spoke.
"The nameless book is here, just as planned," the fourth spoke.
"It must come into the possession of the keeper of magic," the first one stated.
"We must manipulate her guardians," the third spoke again.
"As it is the will of the Guillotine of Hope," the fourth concluded. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Traces | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 12: Traces
For nearly an hour, the keepers of harmony were just sitting around, waiting for the last missing reapers to arrive. While most of them were bored, Babs was thankful for having a break to think. Like every normal subject, uncovering all these secrets Princess Celestia hid away from the public was a big shock for her.
A secret war was raging between demons and ponies for more than one thousand years... Babs couldn't even begin to imagine what kind of humongous effort it must have been to cover all this up. But knowing this, things started making sense to her. She now realized how easy it was to distract ponies and how much they value the small things. The princess of the sun must have spent hundreds of years manipulating society and the way ponies think to make them blind to what is hidden in the dark. Yet, while this was morally questionable, Babs herself couldn't think of a better, more ethic way to protect the public.
Seeing all the things she learned tonight, she started to understand that this 'dance of the reapers' truly was a way to share information and improve communication. Only the most trusted and most elite would normally learn what she had learned to night. Babs had to promise to keep these secrets to herself, even though it was hardly necessary. As a police mare, she knew that ponies would either call her crazy or fall into blind panic as soon as she would spread this knowledge around in public.
Though the biggest shocker for the teenage filly was that she now started to understand the perspectives of the BloodClaw Cult. These demons revealed so many secrets to the cultists which Celestia hid away from them. Babs herself was a bit angered and hurt to find out that the princess lied to her and all of her subjects so much. She could only imagine how hard this must be for other ponies to realize: The one pony ruling over Equestria; The one pony everypony trusts... lying... faking... betraying her own subjects. Even though Babs Seed was a pony of high morals and would never even start to think about murdering because of this, she could now understand why others would.
Tonight, a lot changed for Babs. The more she thought, the more determined her expression became. Ultimately, the teenage filly got up again and walked over to Twilight Sparkle.
"So, you're leadin' the investigation around the cult? Did I get that right?" she asked.
"Yes, why are you asking?" the purple mare wondered.
"Crystal told me about what happened to my colleagues," Babs replied, still keeping her determined expression.
"Oh... I'm sorry, Babs. I just thought-" Twilight started.
"Don't ya apologize, Twilight. It's fine," the teenage filly interrupted. "I really needed the break, so thanks for that. But let's get to the point: I don't have anywhere to go anymore. I mean, Crystal explained the whole thing to the rest of the Manehattan police and I'll need to wait for new colleagues to come to my station. But what would that say about me and my career if I would just pretend to ignore what's going on? I can't let the damn cult get away with something like that ever again. My training will have to wait. I'll do whatever I can to support your investigation. I'll try to get as many officers working on that case as possible."
"Wow... Babs Seed, you are full of surprises! Even I wasn't as mature as you are in your age! But I really need to warn you. Actively fighting against the cult or the demons will make you a target to them. I don't think Applejack would appreciate that you risk your life like that," Twilight worried.
"C'mon now. I'm a police trainee! My job's already very dangerous!" Babs replied.
"You got a point there... Well, as long as you promise to be careful and not just jump into action, I would say: Welcome aboard!" the purple mare spoke.
"Thanks! This means a lot to me! And don't worry, cousin. I'll be careful!" the teenager promised.
Again, Applejack barely reacted. It seemed like nothing really mattered to her anymore. She was just too deeply lost in her own mind. By now, Fluttershy's focus had returned to the present and she sat down next to the orange mare, trying to soothe and accompany her.
"I admire your dedication, Babs Seed," Crystal commented. "I was going to request the police forces in Equestria to join us in the investigation, but we do not necessarily have the best relation to them, since we have the authority to bypass a few laws. With your help, it will be much easier to get them interested in our cause."
Just as she finished speaking, another reaper tapped on her shoulder.
"Elder, may I request a word with you in confidence?" he asked.
"What is it, apprentice?" Crystal wondered.
"I have a suggestion, but I would first like to discuss it with you before any decisions are made," the reaper stallion replied.
"Very well. Excuse me for a moment," the light blue mare replied, bowing down to the group and walking off with the apprentice.
While Crystal was away, another reaper arrived at the mountain top. This one was limping and had fresh, bleeding cuts all over her body.
"Oh gosh! Hey! Somepony got hurt!" Babs shouted as soon as she spotted the reaper.
Instantly, a few dozen reapers turned around and ran over to the injured one.
"What happened?" one of them wondered.
"A small army of highly skilled insane ponies attacked Yonder Hill. They didn't even need half an hour to kill all royal guards and the ponies I was ordered to protect..." she replied.
"Oh my gosh... Did they wear red robes with black claw marks?" Twilight wondered.
"Yes. They were aiming straight for the guards," the injured reaper mare answered.
"Were you protecting the apple family?" Rarity worried.
"Yes... I failed to protect them... None living in Yonder Hill survived," the mare replied.
Now, Applejack began to shake and cry again. This was yet another heavy blow for her. She couldn't take it anymore. The orange mare got up on her three shaking legs and walked off.
"Applejack? Where are you going?" Fluttershy wondered, not getting any response.
"Darling? Hey! Wait!" Rarity called, chasing after the orange mare along with Fluttershy.
"Oh for Pete's sake! This keeps getting worse every minute!" Babs shouted with a furious expression while crying as well. "I'll make them pay. I'll so make them pay for this."
"We will get them, Babs. But don't rush it now. We need to be strategic," Twilight tried to reason.
Babs could hardly keep herself together. Just like a few days ago, the teenager began to walk up and down in attempt to release her fury. This whole tragedy with the apple family started to get very close to Twilight as well. The cult was absolutely reckless and would stop from nothing. ---
After ten minutes, Crystal returned to Twilight and Babs, accompanied by Fluttershy, Applejack and Rarity.
"AJ... are you okay?" the purple mare wondered.
"Does it look like Ah'm okay?" Applejack replied with a desperate tone.
"Oh darling... I'm so sorry..." Rarity spoke and embraced her friend, which only caused the orange mare to cry even more.
"We can't let this go on anymore. Every single life lost is a life too much. We got to do something..." Fluttershy spoke.
"We will very soon," Crystal replied. "The last reapers are just about to arrive. But before Fluttershy and I meet up with them, I have something I would like to give to you in the name of all of us, Twilight Sparkle."
"Huh? What is it?" the purple mare wondered.
From beneath her cloak, the elder reaper made a large black book fly out, levitating it over to Twilight. It had no decorative elements and no title, but seemed to be made of a very durable material.
"This is what we refer to as the nameless book. It is a collection of highly forbidden reaper knowledge, listing various spells, techniques and observation on demons and curses. Its existence is supposed to be a secret only reapers know about to protect the knowledge hidden inside. But my fellow reapers convinced me that it might contain very useful information for you and this investigation," Crystal explained.
"Wow... that is big. I really appreciate your trust," Twilight replied.
She immediately opened the book and started scanning through. It didn't take long for her to go wide-eyed by the sheer amount of detail presented to her. This book contained some of the most dangerous dark magic spells in existence, very detailed descriptions of several hundred demon types and even had a note on unique demons.
But what truly shocked Twilight was the section in the book about curse magic. Some of them were extremely dangerous and could lead to death and worse. After Twilight flipped the page again, she suddenly gasped.
"W-what? The Alicorn Amulet is in here?" she spoke.
"The Alicorn what?" Babs wondered, allowing herself to let this distract her from her fury and coming over.
"The Alicorn Amulet. An ancient necklace that provides the wielder immense magical powers at the cost of corruption. While this cursed artifact is known to pony-kind, most of them do not know that it was created by the demon queen herself through a bargain with King Sombra. The precise details of this bargain are unknown. Whoever uses the Alicorn Amulet will cause permanent damage to their own soul, growing worse with every spell cast. All ponies who had been using the amulet were found to have gained a very weak mind afterwards, often leading them into extreme insanity... Oh my gosh... So that's why Trixie..." The purple mare spoke.
"Her end was indeed a tragedy," Crystal commented.
"You knew Trixie?" Fluttershy wondered.
Suddenly, something clicked inside Twilight's mind. Her focus fell back on the elder reaper mare. Light blue coat... white mane... unicorn-born... magical talent...
"Oh my gosh... Oh my gosh! How could I not have realized that sooner! Now I get why you always felt so familiar to me, Crystal! Could it be that you were related to Trixie?" the purple mare wondered.
"That is correct. Trixie Lulamoon was a distant descendant of me," the light blue mare confirmed.
"What? Honestly? Oh my stars! How is that possible? You don't even share the same surname!" Rarity wondered.
"It is a bit of a longer story to explain, so let me give you the shortened version. Back in the time before I became a reaper, insanity was a big problem in my home city: Stalliongrad. I lost many family members out of various reasons, which is why I had so few family connections. Those who survived decided to leave Stalliongrad and partially married into different families. Trixie's ancestors of the Blossom family married into the Lulamoon family," Crystal explained.
"Then why did Trixie have to live all alone?" Fluttershy wondered.
"I tried to track the lives of some of my descendants over the last few hundred years, but I could not find out much. I do not know what happened to the Lulamoon family to break apart like this, leaving Trixie on the streets with no parents. I truthfully hoped for her to have a better life, but she decided to walk the path of revenge and self-destruction," Crystal spoke.
"So sorry this happened," Babs commented.
"I lost all connections to my family long ago anyway, so it does not matter. Now if you excuse me, I have to go. The dance is about to begin," Crystal stated, bowing down and leaving again.
"Sorry, but I need to go, too. See you later," Fluttershy stated, following her mentor.
After the group waved the two reapers goodbye, Twilight returned to the nameless book. Several minutes passed before she came across another topic which caught her attention.
"Huh? Nightmare's Eye?" Twilight spoke.
"What's that thing? Looks like a red eyeball with something liquid inside," Babs wondered.
"Let's see. Nightmare's Eye. One of the most mysterious of all demonic artefacts. So far, reaper-kind has only seen this object twice. The oldest records made by the first few reaper generations describe this object to seemingly be alive. The red eye-shaped gem sometimes seems to move and whoever it is looking at feels a strong sensation of being watched by the demon queen herself. Its purpose is unknown, but the fact that it is the only demon artefact constantly protected by being hidden in their strongholds leads to the assumption that it must be of extreme value to the demons. Every attempt to steal it was so far prevented with humongous aggression," the purple mare read out.
"A curse the demons protect from getting into the hooves of reapers or ponies? That is beyond odd," Rarity commented.
"This book is exciting! So many things I didn't know are in there! I wonder what else I can learn," the purple mare spoke.
While Twilight dived deeper and deeper into the book, the rest of the group found it more interesting to watch the reapers. ---
It took hours, but finally, all 87 reapers arrived in the poisonous cloud and came together. As always, the elders shared the most important knowledge with the younger reapers before the dance would begin. Then, it was Crystal's turn to speak.
"Messōrēs. As you may have heard from the rumors, a new force is rivaling our mistress for the rulership over this land. A cult of demon-worshipping insane ponies has emerged. It is still unknown how several thousand ponies could find out about the secret war and decide to side with the enemy. But the biggest problem is that the demons tolerate these cultists and cooperate with them," she started.
The reapers began mumbling. A few of the younger apprentices sighed in disappointment.
"At least one of you can personally confirm that this BloodClaw Cult, as it names itself, is openly attacking the management structures of Equestria. Within just a few weeks, the number of casualties has risen into the hundreds. The cult and their alliance with the demons is a force that must not be underestimated. Along with the cult, a new type of demon has evolved, which we refer to as skin-walkers. Demons capable of disguising themselves so perfectly, not even we can sense them. Never before in our history have we been this close to lose control over the land. The situation is as serious as it can get," the light blue mare continued.
The apprentices started to get uneasy. Especially the little foals felt greatly in danger, since they were tossed into this war just now.
"Messōrēs. Once more, we have to declare crisis state in Equestria. We must mobilize every force available. Sky Guards, Night Guards, Royal Guards, Police and of course ourselves all need to work together to bring down this threat before it is too late. Do not lose your faith. The BloodClaw Cult might be the most powerful and most strategic enemy we have ever encountered. But we have already proven that we can guard Equestria for over one thousand years straight. As you can see, the keepers of harmony are already investigating the case. I ask you to fight the cult with your full strength. Bring every tiny piece of information you can gather to the keeper of magic. Together, we will avert this crisis as well," Crystal finished.
Throughout the speech, four of the reapers in the crowd retreated step by step, until they suddenly vanished. Just moments later, four new reapers who looked exactly like those who had just disappeared reached the mountain top, confused to see that the meeting has already begun. ---
Three weeks had passed since Tripudium Messōrum. In these three weeks, a lot had changed. With the military forces of Equestria now searching and attacking the BloodClaw Cult, a civil war began on the streets of most major cities. The more Equestria resisted to be taken over by the cult, the more aggressive the cult became. By now, several hundred had been killed on both sides.
The tension had become so intense, it was impossible to hide the conflict from the public anymore. Walking on the streets at night was now an extremely dangerous thing to do. The keepers of harmony in particular were sought out by cultists patrolling through Manehattan constantly.
It had been a long time since they could last leave Babs' apartment. Twilight and her friends just couldn't take the risk of the cultists finding their hideout. But despite all obstacles, the investigation reached a whole new level of efficiency. Now that every guard, police officer and reaper was supporting Twilight, new informations were flying in every day.
"Okay. Let's sum up what we found out so far," Twilight started.
"We have confirmation of cultist activities in 37 cities all over Equestria. In 12 of them, the reapers were also able to discover a church of the BloodClaw Cult, which instantly moved away once discovered," Rarity started.
"The cult is communicating through skin-walker demons. The churches mostly have religious purposes and to provide tactical bases for the skin-walkers. We also have found out that Tripudium Messōrum had been infiltrated by these demons, which means they know about our plans. It is also unsure how much they know we found out and which of the given information truly comes from a reliable source and which is false, given to us from skin-walkers," Fluttershy continued.
"Riots and panic make the investigation of the cult even more difficult. It becomes increasingly harder to identify who belongs to the BloodClaw Cult and who is still loyal to Mistress Celestia. But what we can confirm without a doubt is that the cultists identify each other with a BloodClaw Mark beneath the fur behind the left ear," Crystal added.
"Good. That gives us options. But what did we find out regarding the leadership of the cult?" Twilight wondered.
"While spyin' on the cultists, two names keep comin' up. One of them is High Priestess Black Widow, the other is the Guillotine of Hope. Judgin' from the reports, Ah reckon that this Black Widow is the leader of the BloodClaw Cult, while the Guillotine of Hope seems to manage the orders given out," Applejack stated.
"That fits with the information I gathered. Good job, AJ!" Twilight spoke.
"Glad to hear Ah'm good for anythin' at all... Couldn't even protect aunt and uncle Orange, even though they are just a few streets away..." the orange mare replied in a low tone.
"We already told ya, you are not responsible for their deaths," Babs spoke. "There's nothing we could have done for them. But I swear to ya, I'll find that darn church here in Manehattan."
"Thanks... Thank ya all... Ah wouldn't even know what to do anymore without y'all. Well, at least Ah know Big Mac is still okay. Ah just got a letter from him yesterday," Applejack replied.
"See? Some good news! But what do we do next?" Rarity wondered.
"Hm... the cult is strictly following orders. All orders have the same kind of pattern and thought process. It seems like the only one making these orders is their high priestess. This seems to be our best bet to take down the cult. If we eliminate Black Widow, the cult might collapse due to the lack of orders given out. Of course, we can't guarantee that another cultist, maybe even this Guillotine of Hope, would not step up to lead then. But taking out their leader will at least cause an interruption in their communication, which might destabilize them enough to let us pick them off, one by one. In the best possible scenario, the cultists don't agree with the decisions of their new leader, causing the cult to tear itself apart," Twilight analyzed.
"So High Priestess Black Widow is our main target," Crystal repeated. "I have to agree with Twilight. This seems to be the most sensible thing to do. But seeing how high the level of security inside the cult is, it will be extremely difficult to catch her."
"All reapers need to gather information specifically about Black Widow. We need to find out where she is," Twilight suggested.
"Very well. I will send the order right away. But before we forget it: You have not taken your medication today, Twilight," Crystal spoke.
"Oh, right. I tend to lose myself in all these scrolls. Thanks for reminding me," the purple mare replied. ---
The following week was the most boring they all had so far. There was next to nothing the whole group could do and no new information came in. This was especially hard to take for Applejack, since she had now officially fallen into depression. Still, at least for Fluttershy, strange things kept happening around her.
The gray figure kept reappearing every once in a while, but only when Fluttershy was away from Twilight Sparkle. It seemed like it did not want to be noticed by anypony but the yellow mare. Just like before, she couldn't make any sense out of its presence. The gray figure just kept standing in the distance, staring at Fluttershy. Each time she tried to approach it, the figure vanished into thin air. It confused her a lot. But seeing how many important things were going on lately, Fluttershy just decided to ignore it for a while and focused on guarding her friends, training with Crystal Blossom and gathering information.
Finally, one afternoon, the yellow mare returned with news.
"Twilight. We found her," she announced.
"The high priestess?" the purple mare wondered.
"Yes. She is on her way to Fillydelphia," Fluttershy confirmed.
"Excellent! Good job! Girls. Pack your things. We are going to catch her," Twilight announced.
"You plan to infiltrate another church?" Crystal wondered.
"Reapers or Royal Guards would have no chance to get in there. We did it before, so we will be able to do it again," the purple mare explained.
"I see. But I need to remind you: If you decide to enter a BloodClaw church, Fluttershy and I will not be able to follow. You, Rarity and Applejack are on your own once inside," Crystal stated.
"I know, but there is no other way. We need to catch Black Widow, come what may," Twilight stated.
"I wish ya good luck, Twi. I'll stay here in Manehattan and keep gathering information for ya. With a bit of luck, I'll be able to find the Manehattan church before you return," Babs Seed explained.
"I wouldn't expect any less of you, Babs. Good luck to you, too," Twilight replied. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Old Acquaintances | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 13: Old Acquaintances
With the cultists observing the public transportation and constantly patrolling around everywhere, the keepers of harmony had a very hard time traveling unseen. A lot of police ponies and reapers had to assist and create distractions for them to narrowly slip through each train station.
Compared to how fast and easy they could travel in the beginning of their investigation, this hiding and sneaking, using baggage waggons and illusion magic was a very nerve-racking and time consuming process. It took them days to get even close to Fillydelphia, since they constantly had to skip trains because they were filled with too many potential cultists. In these times, several reapers stationed along their way guarded them, showing them places to hide and wait. But luckily, rumor had it that the high priestess Black Widow had just as much trouble traveling as they did.
Finally, Twilight and her friends got information that a small group of ponies arrived in Fillydelphia, which went through a great amount of effort to ensure the pony they were escorting remained unseen. Apparently, not even the reapers could get close enough to the convoy without suddenly getting attacked by skin-walkers, which again instantly alarmed the group, causing them to change route and disappear into the shadows. This must have been Black Widow and her guardians, Twilight figured.
One day later, the keepers of harmony finally arrived in Fillydelphia. So far, things went smoothly. According to the reapers, the cult was still searching for them in Manehattan. It seemed like they were completely unaware of their journey, which meant a huge advantage when it came to infiltrating the BloodClaw church of Fillydelphia.
It was already very late when Crystal Blossom and Fluttershy guided the group through the darkest streets of the supposedly second most beautiful city of Equestria. Rarity, Applejack and Twilight were all very tired and drained from the journey. All they could think of now was finding a place to rest.
"I can hardly keep my eyes open... Now that we are here, where do we go?" Rarity whispered, very sleepy.
"Don't worry. I thought this through. We have a few friends here who are willing to take us in," Twilight whispered back.
"Friends... I don't remember knowing anyone living in... Oh... wait... you mean-" Fluttershy started.
"Yes. Mr. and Mrs. Cake," Twilight finished.
"So were're hangin' around with cannibals now. That's how low we've stooped already," Applejack commented in a very grim tone.
"Hush, AJ! The Cakes are trustworthy ponies!" Twilight protested quietly.
"Takin' the fact aside that they knew about Pinkie's hobby all along and let her turn mah lil' sis into one of them," the orange mare continued.
"They had no choice, Applejack. They were powerless to change anything. Try seeing it from their perspective: They had two little foals to protect," Crystal tried to reason.
"Ah don't care about their darn perspective," Applejack mumbled angrily.
Twilight sighed in frustration. There was no point in arguing with her friend. Her grief just consumed her too much. Right now, she was just depressed and angry at everypony for not being able to stop the elimination of her family.
After spending nearly the entire night sneaking between buildings and having to stop every now and then for prolonged periods because of ponies roaming through the dark, Twilight and her friends finally arrived at a large sweets shop titled 'The Honey Comb'. The lights were still burning inside, indicating to the group that the Cakes were waiting for them. The reapers quickly scanned the surroundings to make sure they would not be observed. Then, Twilight knocked at the backdoor. It opened nearly instantaneously.
"There you are... By Celestia, I hope you know what you are getting us into again," Carrot Cake spoke while waving them in.
"I'm so sorry for putting you into that kind of trouble, but I promise I will do whatever I can to make it worth it," Twilight replied while quickly entering, the rest of the group doing the same.
"You are not putting us into anything, deary..." Cup Cake whispered in the dark. "As a matter of fact, all that changes when you are here is that we get in even bigger risk to get busted."
"What do you mean?" Fluttershy wondered.
"Not here. Not now. I am not sure Pound and Pumpkin are truly asleep, yet. Let us go to the storage room first," Carrot Cake whispered.
"Hope ya don't have some kind of trap set up there to butcher us up," Applejack growled.
"Applejack! Seriously! Where are your manners?" Rarity spoke quietly.
The orange mare just puffed shortly in anger and turned her head away. The Cakes, though, just hung their heads, apparently in shame. Very unwillingly, Applejack followed them through the kitchen and into a chamber just big enough for all of them to fit inside. As soon as the door closed, Carrot Cake turned on a lamp attached to the ceiling. The room was filled with various ingredients, but all seemingly moved aside beforehand to make room for the group.
"I'm sorry we can't offer you anything better, but we don't have a guest room and you would be seen if you would settle down anywhere else," he apologized.
"We are used to this by now, so we will be fine," Twilight replied.
"Well, we really need to go to bed now. We have a long workday ahead of us. I know we are not quite in the position to make any requests, but... Please, please don't come out while the shop is open or our children are around," Cup Cake requested.
"That is pretty self-explanatory. Don't worry, Mr. and Mrs. Cake," the purple mare assured.
With these words, the Cakes retreated and the group tried its best to get comfortable in this very small room. Luckily, they were all far too tired to think about this situation much. As soon as they put down their saddle bags, Twilight, Applejack and Rarity laid down and fell asleep. Only Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom stood up to guard their hideout. ---
The next morning, the keepers of harmony had to wait inside the storage room for the Cake family to finish breakfast. By now, Pound Cake and Pumpkin Cake were both old enough to go to school. As soon as they went on their way, Twilight could hear the Cakes closing all windows and locking all doors. Then, they opened the storage room and made breakfast for the group.
"So, have you heard of an organization calling itself the BloodClaw Cult?" Twilight asked while eating.
"Much more than we would like to... They have been terrorizing this city for a while now," Cup Cake replied.
"Do not be worried. If we succeed, things will return to the way they were when you first arrived here," Crystal stated.
"Oh gosh. Please don't," Carrot Cake commented.
"Huh? Whatever do you mean? That almost sounds like you want the cult to stay!" Rarity wondered.
"Of course we don't! But I think you have no idea how things are around here! When we moved away from Ponyville three years ago, the cult was already here!" Cup Cake explained.
This line nearly made Twilight choke on the piece of pancake she was chewing. After coughing a few times heavily and drinking some juice, she turned her focus to the couple.
"What?! That can't be! The BloodClaw Cult doesn't even exist for that long, yet!" Twilight spoke, trying hard to suppress a shout of disbelief.
"They do, deary! Please, you have to believe us!" Cup Cake begged.
"Twilight. If the cult is truly that old, then it means it must have started growing almost directly after you stopped Nightmare Moon's prophecy. That would explain why it is so big already and has so much power," Crystal analyzed.
"Nightmare Moon's prophecy?" Cup Cake wondered.
"Sorry to keep you in the dark, but we will explain that some other time," Twilight started. "For now... What we really need is to know what you know about Fillydelphia. Please tell us everything you can."
Mr. and Mrs. Cake both sighed briefly. Then Carrot Cake began explaining.
"When we first arrived here, we thought it would be a brand new start. A place where nopony knows us and our... backstory... But soon after we opened our new sweets shop, we got swarmed by cannibals, wanting to make friends with us and giving us their condolence over the loss of our 'adoptive daughter'," he started in a very depressed tone.
"It turned out that Fillydelphia is full of cannibals who joined the BloodClaw Cult. The entire city is in their hooves. All we wanted to do is escape from this bloodshed and just live normal lives. But now, we walked right back into all the old problems. They instantly wanted to drag us back into the circles of pony-eaters. Right now, our family name is both our biggest disadvantage and the only thing that keeps us and our children alive," Cup Cake continued.
"It is so hard to hide all this from Pound and Pumpkin... We constantly have cannibal cultists come up here, wanting to make them gifts. Mostly food containing pony flesh... For Honeybun and I, it is a dance on a knife's edge. We just can't afford to displease the cult, its invitations and gifts. But if we eat just one tiny bit of meat, we will relapse," Carrot Cake finished.
"How do you manage to go by?" Fluttershy wanted to know.
"Well, the only positive thing we learned from living with Pinkamena Diane Pie is how to express ourselves. It is all about playing submissive supportive. I guess it is a role we will never get out of playing..." Cup Cake answered.
"But you do have good connections with the BloodClaw Cult, yes?" Twilight wondered.
"Sadly, yes... Among cannibals, the Cake and the Pie family are both legendary. They put a lot of trust in us and constantly advertise the cult. We keep saying that we are still being observed by Princess Celestia and that right now is a bad time to join them, but I don't know how much longer they will keep buying that... And now that the cult is everywhere, moving out of Fillydelphia is pointless, too. Something must happen very, very soon. Otherwise, they will force us to join them or we will get killed," Carrot Cake replied.
"So I take they told you were their church is?" Crystal wondered.
"Yes, but... Why in the name of Celestia would you want to go there, deary?" Cup Cake asked.
"As I said, we are here to take down the cult. We do have a plan, but we need access to the church here in Fillydelphia. I know, I am asking for a lot, but do you think you might be able to get us in there?" Twilight wondered.
"Oh my..." Carrot Cake spoke, starting to shake. "W-well... there might be a way... But it is very risky."
"A gap in their security, maybe?" Fluttershy asked.
"No. The BloodClaw church has guards all over it. There is absolutely no chance you can sneak in. The only way to get inside is by already being a trusted member of the cult," Cup Cake explained.
"Well, so much for our plans. Just great! Yeah! Why don't we all just walk up there and kindly ask them to let us in?" Applejack started mocking.
"They said there is a chance, AJ. Let's hear it first before we jump to any conclusions," Twilight responded.
"The cult knows that there are other living Cakes out there in Equestria, but they don't know how many. It is a huge risk, but if we introduce you as members of our family, you would instantly get a high level of reputation, respect and acceptance among the cult. All you would need to do is disguise yourselves," Carrot Cake explained.
"That sounds like it might work," Fluttershy commented.
"Not exactly," Crystal disagreed. "There is a big issue. Cannibals are known to be very distrusting and seeing everypony not confirmed as fellow-cannibal as potential prey. In order to get their trust and thus access to the Fillydelphia church, you would have to confirm your cannibalism by eating pony flesh right in front of their eyes. If you expect them to do that, you are asking for way too much."
"Yeah... I'm sorry, but... Just thinking about Pinkie's cupcakes makes me..." Twilight spoke, struggling with nausea.
"Actually, we have a solution for that, deary!" Cup Cake stated.
The earth pony mare went back to the storage room, pushing a few flour bags around to reveal a hidden barrel. Then, she moved it in the kitchen, right in front of the group and opened the lid. The sight of its content brought shock to the entire group and was reason enough for Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom to instantly summon their scythes and go into battle stance.
"Ah knew ya couldn't trust them! Ah told y'all!" Applejack shouted.
"So you have returned to your cannibal ways," Crystal commented.
"No! No! Stop! This is not what it looks like!" Carrot Cake spoke.
"What in Equestria are you trying to prove here?" Rarity wondered, still in shock. "This barrel is full of meat!"
"Its not meat! Please, you have to believe us! Reapers, please come and look at it yourself!" Cup Cake pleaded.
While most members of the group did not believe them and remained in battle stance, Crystal slowly lowered her scythe and ultimately allowed it to vanish.
"I will have a look at it. Apprentice: Please stay ready to strike in case they try something," she stated.
Fluttershy nodded shortly in confirmation. Then, the elder reaper mare stepped in front of the barrel and lifted a piece of meat out of it. But something really seemed to be strange about it, since she spent nearly a minute analyzing the piece before taking a bite out of it. After chewing and swallowing, she gave Fluttershy the signal to lower her scythe.
"Mr. and Mrs. Cake, I have to congratulate you. This is bordering on ingenuity," she commented, causing the married couple to sigh in relief.
"What do you mean, Crystal?" Twilight wondered.
"This is definitely fake meat. The flavor and texture is next to identical, but I am absolutely sure it most likely is made of tofu," the light blue mare replied, then turned back to the couple. "How you managed to turn it into a next to perfect replication is beyond my understanding."
"As former cannibals, when you try to survive among cannibals, you have to use every trick available," Carrot Cake started. "I don't mean to brag, but we do have quite some skill when it comes to baking. It is thanks to these fake meats that the cult thinks we are still eating ponies and are therefore considers us trustworthy."
"This is brilliant! Okay then. I have a plan," Twilight started. "Rarity: I need you to make two exact imitations of the BloodClaw's robes. One for me, one for yourself. Applejack, Fluttershy and Crystal: You need to bring us supplies. We will need sewing material for the robes, a variety of dyes and makeup. Rarity and I will enter the church undercover as members of the Cake family who want to join the cult."
"Only two robes? You don't want Applejack to come with us?" Rarity wondered.
"Yes. I'm sorry, Applejack, but with your amputated front leg, you would stick out too much. Rarity's nose and scars can be covered, but that... I hope you understand," Twilight replied.
"Yeah... Sure I understand... Leave the useless crippled mare out of the danger 'cuz she might bust ya..." the orange mare mumbled.
"It's not like that, AJ. Its just-" Twilight tried to explain.
"Yeah, Ah get it. Just keep goin'..." Applejack spoke before Twilight could finish.
"Well... We will use the fake meat to confirm our cannibalism and gain access to the BloodClaw church. Then, we will just play along with the cultists and wait for Black Widow to show up. The moment we see an opportunity, we will try to lure her out of her cover. I will give the signal for Crystal and Fluttershy to strike and assassinate her," the purple mare finished.
"You make it sound so easy, darling. Do you really think this will work?" Rarity questioned.
"It has to work! There is not enough time to think of something more foolproof. Who knows how long she will stay in Fillydelphia! If she gets away, she will know that we are after her. I know the risks are high and there is a lot that can go horribly wrong, but this must succeed on first attempt! We won't get a second chance anytime soon!" Twilight stated.
"Very well, then. I will give it all I got! Even though I absolutely detest the idea of recreating something as tacky as their robes," Rarity agreed.
"Thank you very much. Also, thanks to you Mr. and Mrs. Cake. Don't worry. This will all be over soon," Twilight spoke.
"We sure hope so... Anyway, we better get going now. We still need to make a few purchases and our shop needs to open soon, right sugar plum?" Carrot Cake asked.
"Yes, we better... Good luck to you, dearies," Cup Cake spoke.
"Fluttershy and I will make sure we get the supplies anonymously and through a non-reaper. The last thing we can need right now is drawing unwanted attention," Crystal commented.
"Alright. Let us get through this very carefully. Everything has to be just right. See you later, Mr. and Mrs. Cake!" Twilight spoke. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | New Form | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 14: New Form
After a day of preparation, the keepers of harmony were finally ready for their second attempt to infiltrate a church of the BloodClaw Cult. Thanks to the fashion diva's makeup tricks, both Twilight and Rarity now looked like two entirely different ponies.
Twilight's mane and tail were dyed to a brilliant white and her coat turned cream. Even her cutie mark got repainted, letting it look like a slice of lemon cake.
Rarity on the other hoof had her mane recolored into a dark brown and her coat became pale orange. Instead of diamonds, she now had a wedge of sponge cake on her flank.
"Ok. Let's get through this one last time," Twilight started. "My name is Lemon Cake, you are Sponge Cake. We are sisters and nieces of Mr. Cake. There is no cultist activity in Mustangia yet, so we will claim to be from there. We came to Fillydelphia to search for other members of our family and try to get more in contact with other cannibals. We have heard of the cult and want to join them."
"Got it, darling. I have to admit, I am kind of excited! I can finally put my acting skills to a test!" Rarity responded.
"Do not go over the top. A good act is one in which you do not realize the pony is acting," Crystal suggested.
"I will keep that in mind," Rarity confirmed.
"Good," Twilight commented. "Fluttershy, Applejack, Crystal: I need you to wait nearby. In case something goes wrong or if we get her, I will give you a signal."
"We will stand ready for you," Fluttershy agreed.
"Okay then. Disguise: check. Saddlebags: check. Robes: check. Fake meat: check. Mr. and Mrs. Cake: check. Background story: check. Ambush plan: check. The only thing missing is an emergency escape plan, but we can't plan that before we know what the church looks like on the inside," Twilight stated.
"So... about us. Let me get this straight. When Pound and Pumpkin come back from school, you want us to go for a walk through the park close to our shop with them, where we will get ambushed by a group of police officers? And they will arrest us and bring us to a secret reaper hideout?" Carrot Cake wondered while rubbing his head in confusion.
"Yes. This is only for your own protection. No matter if we succeed or fail, the cult will get suspicious about you, since you brought us inside their church. But if they see you getting arrested, it will make them think you truly had nothing to do with our assault," Twilight confirmed.
"How long are we supposed to stay there?" Cup Cake spoke in worry.
"A few days at least," Crystal started. "We need to make sure there is as little connection between you and our operation as possible. Then, we will play some information about you getting transported to jail into the hooves of the cultists. If they decide to attack the convoy and free you, we can be sure that the cult still sees you as their friends. If they do not, we will bring you straight to Canterlot Castle. Mistress Celestia already agreed to make you her guests for the duration of this crisis."
"Thank you a lot, deary... Finally having a break from all these cannibals will be like a vacation," Cup Cake commented.
"Alright. Is everything clear now?" Twilight wondered.
"Yes. Are you ready to go?" Carrot Cake asked.
"Everything is planned and ready. Please bring us to their church," Twilight requested.
With a small nod, the Cakes turned around and opened the front door of the sweets shop, closely followed by Twilight and Rarity. The rest of the group went through the backdoor and used an alternate route to stay hidden.
After just a couple of minutes, Twilight noticed that they were being watched, partially with surprised expressions. So Twilight decided to fake a happy smile and started trotting more cheerful, as if she was looking forward to meeting the cult. Rarity instantly adapted the behavior. Now, the ponies started smiling at them, giving them suggestive nods as they passed by. ---
Twenty minutes of walking passed until the group reached a large hotel. At first, Twilight expected the Cakes to lead them behind it or in a dark street nearby. But as she realized that they were being guided right inside and towards the reception, she became deeply astonished. This whole building is a BloodClaw church in disguise? Since she figured it would only support her act, Twilight decided to openly show her stun.
"Welcome! May I... Oh! It's you! Okay, please follow me!" the mare on the reception spoke.
Without saying a word, Mr. and Mrs. Cake went behind the counter of the reception and into a large back room. Then, the mare took off her uniform and hung it up. Using a special key, she locked the door behind the group and opened a locker. Inside was a red robe with three black claw marks, which she immediately wrapped around herself.
"So you have finally decided to join us? And who are these two?" she wondered as soon as she was done.
"Well, not quite. We are still being observed, as we told you. But these two here are not. Come on now, don't be shy. Introduce yourselves! You can trust them!" Cup Cake spoke.
"Um... Okay. My name is Lemon Cake and this is my sister Sponge Cake! We're from Mustangia," Twilight spoke.
"Mustangia? I didn't know Cakes were living there," the robed mare commented.
"We don't have a church over at home, yet. But we heard quite a lot about you! Uncle Carrot Cake told us you are looking for more... ahem... ponies like us, right?" Rarity wondered.
"You are in a circle of very trusted ponies, so just speak it out openly. Well, of course the cult is searching for more cannibals and we would be honored to have members of the Cake family among us!" the mare confirmed.
"Awesome!" Twilight cheered. "Finally some ponies who think just like us! We have been searching for fellow cannibals for such a long time! Look! We even got some robes from other members of your cult already!"
As soon as she finished speaking, both Twilight and Rarity opened their saddlebags by magic, making their BloodClaw robes fly out and wrap around them.
"Oh! Excellent! Normally, we would ask you to take part in a survey and prove your intentions by performing a few basic tasks for us. But since you are members of the Cake family and come here from the recommendation of other cultists, I think its safe to skip that! All I need you to do now is to prove that you eat ponies, purely out of safety precautions," the mare requested.
"That's pretty understandable. Hang on. I think we still got some left!" Rarity commented and made two pieces of fake meat fly out of her bag.
An expression of insane joy started showing in the other mare's face. While she watched Twilight and Rarity eat the fake meats in front of her, the mare began to grin widely and her pupils began to shrink, followed by both eyes becoming bloodshot. This even seemed to lightly unsettle Mr. and Mrs. Cake, even though they were used to these things.
To make this as authentic as possible, both Twilight and Rarity got themselves used to the texture and flavor of the fake meat by eating a few pieces beforehand. Even though it was nothing a normal, vegetarian pony appreciates, they could act as if they relished it.
"Great! That sealed it! Welcome to the BloodClaw Cult, Lemon Cake and Sponge Cake! Would you like a tour through our church?" the mare wondered.
"Absolutely!" Rarity cheered.
"That's the spirit!" the mare spoke, grabbing her key to unlock the door back to the reception again. "Sorry, Mr. Carrot Cake and Mrs. Cup Cake, but the entry to the church is only permitted to members. I hope you will reconsider joining us soon."
"Oh, alright then. Take care of my nieces, okay?" Carrot Cake spoke.
"The cult takes good care of its members! Don't worry. As long as they are with us, they are safe from the alicorns' influence," the mare promised.
While she was busy guiding Carrot Cake and Cup Cake back outside, Twilight and Rarity congratulated each other without a word. Their act was spot on. Then, the robed mare returned, locked the door again and went to the other side of the room.
"I think its time to introduce myself! I am Bookmark, accountant of the BloodClaw Cult in Fillydelphia. I help the Guillotine of Hope and her agents to distribute orders all around this city!" the mare explained while moving a curtain aside to reveal another door, which she then unlocked.
"Who's that?" Twilight wondered.
"She's a high-ranked demoness and the tactician of the BloodClaw Cult. It is her task to guard our high priestess, Black Widow, and organize the orders given out by her. You two are lucky! They both just arrived in Fillydelphia a few days ago! Not many newcomers get to meet them this soon. They are awfully busy, you know. Oh... the joy... such bliss to be with our lords, hehehe," Bookmark explained, lightly slipping into insanity again, but catching herself immediately.
While she lead Rarity and Twilight through the door and down a few stairs, they exchanged a quick glance. Their suspicions were correct. Black Widow really was the key to the organization of the cult and this Guillotine of Hope was the one handling her orders. But discovering that the guillotine was a high-ranked demoness was something they knew would make their assault a lot more difficult. Somehow, Twilight and Rarity needed to lure her away from Black Widow for their assassination to succeed. Knowing this, Twilight decided to play excited and started skipping.
"That's so great! What a great way to enter the fray!" she commented happily.
"The high priestess will hold a big ceremony tonight. Until then, there is much you need to learn about us and our believes. Have you ever heard of a blessing called Maledictum Insania?" Bookmark wondered.
"The cultists we spoke to before mentioned it, but they didn't explain what it was," Rarity replied.
"That's okay. We will teach you all about it... Hehehe. Our lords. Our beloved queen of terror! Praised be her red darkness!" the robed mare stated manically before collecting herself again and resumed. "Ahem... Anyway, let me show you around for now."
As they reached the bottom, they found another door, guarded by two robed stallions holding daggers. As they saw Bookmark, they immediately began to unlock the door and opened it.
The group entered a very large, dark hall with several cultists guarding it. Many sinister religious symbols and candle stands were placed along the walls. On the other side of the room, they could see a large blood-stained altar. Above it was a balcony, richly decorated with large red curtains, dark symbols and art resembling demons and Nightmare Moon. Rotting pony corpses were nailed to the large pillars across the hall with big metal nails, staining everything around them in dried blood. The words 'Traitor' or 'Heretic' were burnt into the skin on their foreheads. From a heavy metal door on the left side of the altar, screaming noises could be heard. On the other side, there was a richly decorated black door.
"This is our ceremonial hall," Bookmark started explaining. "Here we hold all our gatherings, festivities and praise the demon queen. The offering table over there is where we make offerings to Nightmare Moon and her children... Where we rend flesh and bone, spill the blood of non-believers... Oh, I'm getting off topic again. Anyway, on the left side, we keep the pony sacrifices. The door on the right side leads to our sanctuary. Entering it is strictly forbidden. Our lords use this place as a retreat and do not want to be disturbed while inside."
Both Twilight and Rarity had to get their acts together. Despite the smell and the corpses hanging around them, they needed to force themselves to look happy and excited.
"What's with the balcony up there?" Rarity wondered.
"This is where our priests hold their speeches. For tonight, it will be high priestess Black Widow speaking to us, so you have every reason to be excited! I also recommend you to not eat too much. Since she is visiting us, we decided to serve a... very special pony tonight... hehehe," Bookmark replied, once more showing how much bliss insanity brought to her.
"What about the ponies you captured? Can we have a look at them?" Twilight requested, causing Bookmark to giggle.
"You are really living up to your family name. Eager to torture some prey and taste some nice fresh blood, huh? So sweet, their screams. So tender, their flesh. So irresistable, their agony... That's just too understandable. But sorry, I can't let you go in there right now. As you can hear, our dungeon is already occupied. Even though we constantly get supplied with new victims, we still have to schedule the times when which cultist can go in there. If you want a round, there is a two hours gap the day after tomorrow," she explained.
"What do they do with the victims?" Rarity spoke in a frustrated tone, faking a pout.
"I don't know how you handle that over in Mustangia, but some of us prefer to not be disturbed while the are playing with their prey. It is kind of a private thing for them. Makes sense when you think about it... I wouldn't want to be disturbed while I gouge out eyeballs... Cut strips out of my victims... Lick the blood out of their wounds... Oh, sorry if I make you hungry. Basically, we allow pretty much everything so long as they don't die. Though that can happen sometimes, so it's not a big deal. In that case, all we ask for are twenty bits for the replacement and everything is fine," Bookmark stated.
"Ah, I see. Hm...Such a big hotel and you only use this hall?" Twilight wondered.
"Haha! Don't be silly! Most hotel rooms are permanently reserved to members of the BloodClaw Cult for free! Do you want one?" the robed mare wondered.
"Of course!" Twilight spoke, faking cheer.
"Alright then! If that's all for now, I would like to teach you some basics and show you your room!" Bookmark stated and turned around. ---
Three hours had passed since Twilight and Rarity infiltrated the church. By now, they were in their hotel room, waiting for a signal to come down to the ceremonial hall again.
The impressions were hard to take for both of them. Especially Twilight could hardly take how casual the cult took the torturing of ponies as a free-time activity, causing her to constantly walk up and down the room with an angry expression.
"Monsters, all of them," she mumbled.
"I know, darling. I know... But we can not let this distract us. Our number one priority is still the same. If we get Black Widow, we might have a chance to free the ponies they captured," Rarity commented.
"It will be difficult, though. I didn't see any way to reach the balcony, so she must be entering from somewhere else. If we need to flee, we would either have to fight our way back upstairs or teleport up to the balcony and see if we can find an alternate exit," Twilight spoke.
"I would say we should go for the balcony. At least the earth pony members of the cult would have a hard time following us if we go that way. But actually, I am more concerned about the special pony they want to sacrifice and eat. What would it say about us if we just watched while they kill him or her? But if we try to save them, we will blow our cover. And to make it all the more complex, even if we say our cover is more important than the life of a pony, they will expect of us to eat with them," Rarity stated.
"The right timing is the key here. First, we need to see who this special pony is they want to kill. As horrible as it sounds, we will have to decide if that pony is worth losing our cover or not. With my arcane magic and your gemstone magic, we might be able to cause enough distraction to get both the victim and Black Widow. But we won't know how many demons are around there and the Guillotine of Hope will certainly be the biggest problem," Twilight analyzed.
"Darling... While I am really not usually that kind of pony, I think we won't get through this without having to seriously hurt at least a few cultists. Unlike the first time, this place is a lot bigger," Rarity spoke in concern.
"No, Rarity. We are better than them. We won't step down to their level. It is already bad enough that we have to kill Black Widow. Who are we to decide over who is worthy to live and who is not? They might be cultists and they might be insane, but they are still ponies," Twilight stated.
"I guess you are right... As long as it is not a life or death situation, I will try to avoid hurting them. Oh! Twilight, come over here for a moment! Your makeup is smudgy," Rarity spoke.
"Ah, thanks. You still look perfectly fine, though," Twilight replied.
"I do this everyday, darling! If I don't know how to handle makeup and dye, who else is supposed to?" the fashion diva asked proudly while fixing Twilight's makeup.
"So you are disguising yourself as another mare and fool around with ponies everyday? That's a side of you I haven't heard of yet!" Twilight stated while giggling.
"Pah! As soon as Applejack stops mocking me, you come to take that over, darling?" Rarity replied in played indignation, followed by giggling along.
Suddenly, they heard hoof-steps approaching their door, causing them to instantly become silent. A knock on the door followed.
"Come in!" Twilight called.
As the door opened, they saw Bookmark standing there, smiling at them.
"Good evening! I just wanted to let you know that the mess is about to begin in ten minutes... Hehehe. Trust me, you do not want to miss this feast!" she explained, grinning wickedly again.
"Thanks for reminding us! We will get ready right away!" Rarity stated happily.
The door closed again and the two waited for Bookmark to walk off. Then, Twilight gained a distraught expression.
"Gosh, she is disgusting," she whispered.
"Well... We better get ready," Rarity commented. ---
One by one, the cultists met up in the same back room where Twilight and Rarity were welcomed in the cult. There, they put on their robes and went downstairs to the ceremonial hall. Both of the mares blended into the masses perfectly and they could quickly occupy the tactically important spots in the masses.
Since they were new to the cult, they were handed out sheets of paper, containing ceremonial chants. The first half hour of the meeting was a mixture of praising to Nightmare Moon and chanting into trances. As two mares not under the influence of the curse of madness, Twilight and Rarity just felt extremely uncomfortable, but did the best they could to act along. Then finally, the moment came they had been waiting for.
The chanting suddenly stopped and from behind the curtains on the balcony, a mare wearing a red and black ceremonial dress stepped forth. Around her neck, she wore something similar to a black scarf with a red spider symbol on each end. She even wore a red and black mask made of cloth, covering her identity entirely. Nothing on her body even slightly revealed what she looked like underneath. Still, Twilight and Rarity instantly knew that this was their target. This was the high priestess Black Widow.
"Darkness is black. A fact only few would disagree with. Saying it is like saying that birds can fly and water is liquid. It seems to be the most obvious thing in the world. But some do know that not all birds can fly and water is not always liquid. So, darkness is not always black either. We are those who are different, because we know of these facts," she started speaking.
Already, Twilight could watch how Rarity's mouth fell open and she became wide-eyed. Without moving her head, the fashion diva quickly jumped her eyes between Twilight and Black Widow. It took her a moment, but then Twilight understood what she wanted to say: Rarity knew this voice.
"Disciples of Nightmare Moon. Welcome. Welcome to this festivity in the name of the true gods of Equestria. Let us humbly pray to the queen of demons, for she is everything we wish to become. Let her cruelty become our cruelty. Let her fury become our fury. Only if our hearts burn with the same hatred for all living things as the hearts of our lords do, we can become one of them," Black Widow continued speaking.
Twilight remained silent. But inside, she was not sure how she was supposed to react to these words. The cult honestly thought that a pony can turn into a demon. Twilight knew for a fact that this wasn't true. She had seen how a demon destroyed its host and bursted free with her own eyes. But of course, the cult had a huge error in its perception. For them, the birth of a demon meant an act of transformation and nothing else.
All around them, Twilight and Rarity could watch the cultists closing their eyes and starting to silently pray, so they played along. After a while, they returned their focus to the high priestess.
"But Nightmare Moon is not only cruelty. For serving her children, she rewards us. For giving ourselves to her red darkness, she makes our greatest wishes come true. Tonight, the queen of demons decided to reward one of you. Lightning Dust. For your great deeds, Nightmare Moon wishes you to step forth and claim your reward," the high priestess announced.
The name shocked both Twilight and Rarity. Lightning Dust? The mare who caused Rainbow Dash to nearly abandon her dream of becoming a Wonderbolt? She was here as one of the cultists?
Out of the crowd, one red robe rose and started moving towards the altar. As the cultist turned around, they saw a bright turquoise mare with orange mane and eyes, grinning in anticipation. It really was her.
"The demon queen knows of your ordeal, Lightning Dust. So she grants you the thing you wish for more than anything. The thing which embodies the sinister queen more than anything else: Revenge. So, you shall have the honor to carve tonight's feast," Black Widow announced and made a gesture.
Two cultists opened the door to the dungeon and stepped inside. Moments later, they returned with a mare wrapped in heavy chains, dragged her out and re-tied her to the altar. Another pony the two present keepers of harmony were shocked to see here. It was Spitfire, captain of the Wonderbolts.
"Oh gosh, yes! Thank you, Nightmare Moon! This is so perfect!" Lightning Dust cheered, then started walking around the altar. "Hey there, Spitfire! Remember me?"
"Wha... Lightning Dust?!" the yellow mare replied.
"Yep! Its me! I suppose you want to beg for your life now," Lightning stated.
"Keep dreaming! I regret nothing about throwing you out of the Wonderbolts Academy!" Spitfire spoke.
"Do you have any idea what you have done to me?!" Lightning Dust started shouting. "I had one dream in my life: Becoming a Wonderbolt! And you crushed it! Why? Because of one tiny mistake! You could have given me a second chance! You could have given me the opportunity to prove that I can be better! But no! You just took away my leader emblem and kicked me out of the academy, destroying any chance for me to ever be a Wonderbolt!"
"Your attitude was a hazard to all other cadets! You selfishly put your goals above the health of everypony else! Only the best of the best can become Wonderbolts and while you had the spirit and the physical capabilities, you certainly had no bit of the personality of a Wonderbolt! In fact, I should have kicked you out much sooner!" Spitfire kept defending herself.
"Oh you... You!" Lightning spoke, barely able to keep herself together.
Suddenly, the turquoise mare turned around and became silent. Then, she started to laugh lightly.
"You know what? Why am I even getting so angry?" she spoke, very calm all the sudden. "Sure, you destroyed my dreams and my future. And sure, I became completely desperate and lost, thanks to you. But the BloodClaw Cult found me and helped me back up! They became my new family and I owe everything I still have to them. Including... this."
As Lightning Dust turned back around, she had an unnaturally wide grin on her face, tiny pupils and bloodshot eyes. The sight was so terrifying that even the tough Spitfire gasped.
"Yes, I don't care for the well-being of others. Yes, I would sell my own grandmother and walk over corpses to get where I want to get. And I love it! I love to destroy everypony in my way! I love to tear them to shreds and making them scream for mercy! I love to see their blood run down my hooves and certainly, I love to devour every tiny bit that is left of them! And now, you are in my way, Spitfire!" the insane mare announced, reaching out her right front leg, asking for a knife.
Now, Spitfire slowly started to panic. She struggled against the chains which kept her tied and all the present cultists grinned widely in anticipation for the massacre. Only Twilight and Rarity sat there, not sure what they should do.
Lightning Dust quickly approached with the knife in her mouth, complete insanity written on her face. The time had come for the two keepers of harmony to make a decision. It was either them busting their disguise and risking Black Widow to get away, or the life of the Wonderbolt super star Spitfire.
Twilight and Rarity looked at each other with serious expressions. Then, they both nodded. Instantly, Twilight's eyes turned white and she sent a powerful arcane bolt in between Spitfire and Lightning Dust, sending the insane mare flying and destroying Spitfire's chains. Not even a second later, all Cultists suddenly jumped up, drawing knives out of their robes.
"Arcane magic! It is Twilight Sparkle! Kill her! Kill her!" Black Widow shouted.
All at once, the cultists started assaulting Twilight with a huge variety of attacks and spells. But before even a single could hit, she used an arcane shockwave to push them away. Rarity immediately lifted a few aquamarines out of the pockets of her robe and covered all the cultists around them in ice. This, though, only helped them for seconds, as a few cultists quickly busted out of the ice and revealed themselves as skin-walkers.
Against several demons at once, just the two of them would still hardly stand a chance. So Twilight raised an arcane force field around her, which the skin-walkers instantly assaulted by turning into a huge variety of sharp weapons to pierce through the shield.
Now, Lightning Dust got back on her four legs. With insane rage written on her face, she started charging towards Spitfire. But Twilight was faster. She used her arcane magic to build a second force field around the yellow mare.
"No! She is mine! She is mine! Miiiiiine!" Lightning Dust shouted with the blade in her mouth, repeatedly stabbing the force field with extreme aggression.
Suddenly, the door leading to the ceremony hall bursted open. Twilight expected that her friends had heard the explosion and came to her aid. But to her huge surprise, the first one who charged in was Lady Truesight.
As soon as Twilight realized she was there, Truesight tossed her scythe to Lightning Dust, impaling her. Now weaponless, a cultist who just broke out of the ice charged her from behind. But without even looking, Truesight grabbed his front leg, tore the blade out of his grip, tossed him over and stabbed him in the chest. Immediately after, she threw the knife to her right, hitting another cultist who was just about to break free in the eye without even looking at him.
The reaper clairvoyant summoned her scythe again. But instead of defending herself against the skin-walkers aiming for her now, she bowed down. As if she knew it was coming, she made space for Crystal Blossom, Fluttershy and Applejack who now charged inside, letting loose a huge battle.
Twilight's eyes jumped back up to the balcony. She could see the ceremonial dress of Black Widow disappearing behind the curtains and teleported Rarity and herself up to the balcony.
"She's getting away!" Twilight shouted and started running.
Rarity followed her through the curtains immediately. The path in front of them was dark and had several turns, but using teleportation, they came close enough to see the leader of the BloodClaw Cult again.
"Guardian! Protect me!" Black Widow shouted.
Suddenly, an earth pony stallion appeared out of the dark, so close to Twilight and Rarity that they both could not react fast enough before they crushed into him. Both instantly tried to get up again and teleport past him, but for some reason, there suddenly was a magical force field between them and the guardian.
"I have been wondering how long it would take you to show up. Nice disguise," the stallion spoke.
"I got no time for you! Get out of the way!" Twilight shouted, casting a spell to break the force field. But as soon as it disappeared, the earth pony stallion somehow conjured up another.
"Oh, I will take the time from you, Twilight. There are a few things we need to talk about," the stallion continued.
Twilight was baffled. How could an earth pony use magic? And why was it so strong that it actually had some effect against her arcane magic?
Suddenly, Applejack, Crystal Blossom and Fluttershy came running towards them from behind.
"Twilight! Did she get away?" Crystal asked.
"Where is Lady Truesight?" Rarity wondered.
"She is handling the cultists and demons for us. Why are we stopping here? Who is this?" Fluttershy spoke.
"I don't know. But for some reason, he knows my name and can use magic! I can't get past him!" Twilight stated.
Now, Crystal Blossom and Rarity tried to help breaking the force field. But, again, as soon as they broke it, the stallion created another.
"Ugh! Shoot! Black Widow is getting away! Who are you?" Twilight asked in frustration.
"Say my name and I will let you through," the stallion stated with a sinister grin.
"We don't have time for this game!" Rarity shouted.
"What in tarnation is going on here?" Applejack wondered in great confusion.
It became silent. The group stood there, staring at the stallion behind the force field while he stared back with a sinister grin. Now having to calm down and think, Twilight came up with something.
"Wait a minute. She called you her guardian. You are not a pony. You are a demon. One of those skin-walkers. The Guillotine of Hope I assume," she stated.
Now, the stallion's eyes started glowing red and his grin grew even bigger.
"Not bad, but that is only my title. What is my name, Twilight?" he kept asking.
"Ugh! I don't know any damn demons! And why do you know my name?" Twilight spoke in frustration.
"You do. At least me, you know very well," he responded, still grinning.
"No I don't! Get out of the way, for Pete's sake!" Twilight shouted.
"Getting through here is really simple. All you need to do is say my name and I will let you pass. I won't move any moment sooner," the skin-walker kept mocking.
It was clear to the whole group that this demon was playing on time. With every second that passed, their chances to catch Black Widow became smaller and smaller. Twilight lowered her head, running through all the demons she had ever encountered and still exist. Who could it be?
"Say, Twilight. Do you still think about Spike and Moondancer from time to time? Or were those final words you spoke to me just empty babbling?" the demon wondered.
An electric bolt of shock rushed through Twilight's body, causing her to lose her arcane aura and her pupils to shrink to tiny dots in fear. Even Fluttershy, Rarity and Applejack had utter shock written in their faces and became speechless.
"T-Twilight? D-Do you think what Ah'm thinkin' this thing is?" Applejack stuttered in fear.
"No... No way... You... You can't be..." Twilight spoke in disbelief.
"Oh, but what if I am? What do you think, Twilight Sparkle? What is my name?" the demon wondered.
"That... That is absolutely impossible! I saw you getting consumed! This can't be! There is no way this can be happening right now!" Twilight shouted.
"Then how do I know all this? How do I know about Spike and Moondancer? Is there any other demon that could know about their horrible ends?" the demon asked in a very arrogant tone.
"You... You are..." Twilight stuttered.
"Just say it already," the demon spoke with a displeased expression.
"Despair..." Twilight finished.
The demon began to grin again. Right in front of them, it let down its disguise. The body color turned into a dark purple and the mane and tail became long, chaotic and black with a red stripe. On its forehead, an abstract horn very similar to that Queen Chrysalis had started to form while a single black strain of hair placed itself between her nose and her left eye. Then, the front legs suddenly tore open, revealing huge sharp teeth. The hind legs became wrapped in dirty bandages and out of the joint connecting the leg to the thigh, blades started to grow. Ultimately, a heart-shaped hole appeared in the demon's chest, which immediately began to bleed.
"Good girl," she commented with an echoing voice that sounded like a mix of Twilight, Queen Chrysalis and something new and foreign.
The group stood there like paralyzed, not believing what they were seeing and hearing. This demon looked and acted like the one Twilight defeated three years ago. Yet, it was different. She was covered in weaponry, her mane and tail were different, as well as her horn and voice. But the way she acted, the way she spoke. It was just all too familiar.
Despair clearly relished the moment of shock she created. She just stood there and grinned in satisfaction, even letting the force field disappear again. Still, not even Crystal Blossom dared to move, since she could judge from the group's reaction that they were facing an extremely mighty opponent.
"Mentor... can demons survive even when being consumed and the reaper is killed?" Fluttershy wondered.
"No. That never happened before. When consumed, a demon is forced back into the pre-birth state of their existence, meaning once the reaper who consumed them finds their final rest, the demon will get destroyed," Crystal explained.
"Oh, I did get destroyed! But you don't honestly think Queen Nightmare Moon would let so much power as I gained from consuming Queen Chrysalis' soul just go to waste, do you? That was all planned all along! Back then, I was just a test," Despair commented.
"A... a test?" Twilight asked.
"Queen Nightmare Moon wanted to create a demon so independent and with such a deep understanding of the ways of demons, she would not even need to give out orders to the demon for it to act. My queen wanted to see if I could read her mind and act her will without her ever speaking a word to me. I was created without a purpose because she wanted to see if I still could make the right decisions; And I more than satisfied her. But as a mere imitation of the keeper of magic, my abilities were limited. I had to be destroyed in order to be recreated! Now, I know my purpose. Now, I am what I was always meant to be: The mightiest of those you call skin-walkers! I am Despair, the Guillotine of Hope," the demoness explained calmly.
"How in Equestria could anything about you survive your own destruction?!" Twilight shouted.
Despair slowly shook her head while grinning, apparently amused.
"You really forget things fast, don't you Twilight?" she started in a very cocky tone. "Have you forgotten about our bond?"
"Our bond... But I... I broke it..." Twilight spoke.
"You just broke my influence over you. Once a bond to a demon is perfected, no force in this world can ever destroy it! All the time, a part of me kept on existing inside you! As long as you live, I can always come back," Despair explained.
"No..." Twilight commented speechlessly.
"Yes," Despair replied. "And now that I am back, I will make you see what my name really means. Anyway, I think I occupied enough of your precious time. You can go chase after my protegee now if you believe you can still catch her."
For a moment, Crystal Blossom toyed with the idea to attack Despair. But the demoness could read her intentions in the reaper mare's eyes and teleported herself right behind Crystal. With her right front leg split open to reveal a huge mouth full of sharp fangs, she held it on Crystal's neck.
"Don't even think about it," Despair spoke sharply. "I have a long, long list of things I want to do to all of you and I wouldn't like the idea of throwing it away because I had to kill any of you early."
Now, Twilight just started running, completely ignoring Despair because she was yet not able to understand that her greatest nemesis had returned. The others followed. Only Crystal and Fluttershy hesitated a moment.
"Oh and by the way: The prophecy of the corrupted stars? It was a feint. A trick to make you think you stopped us so we could continue our true plans without having you interfere," Despair stated just in time for the whole group to still hear it.
These words made Fluttershy's eyes grow wide and her mouth fall open. Crystal slowly stepped away from the demoness.
"You put so much effort into a feint? You spent years on creating a chain reaction that would have been so potent, it would have resurrected Nightmare Moon, only to let us prevent it from happening?" Crystal wondered.
"Of course we planned it out so it would work! Otherwise, you would not fall for it! But we never expected to actually get through with the prophecy! The only reason why I am even telling you this is because we now have crossed the moment where nothing can be stopped anymore! You can keep struggling and resisting if you want. But it won't change anything anymore! It is over. Very soon, it will all be over," Despair explained.
Even the elder reaper mare found herself at a loss of words. She just decided to follow the group, Fluttershy doing the same.
So they left again, leaving Despair behind with a victorious grin on her face. This little mind-game she set up was a pure joy to her. She already couldn't wait for the next step of her plan to come. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Suspicious Opportunity | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 15: Suspicious Opportunity
When the group finally reached the end of the tunnel, they had to realize it was already sealed off. Breaking through would only have been a waste of time and energy at this point. It was over. Black Widow had gotten away.
While walking back through the dark tunnel, the group had very mixed feelings. Especially Twilight seemed to be completely terrified about the thought of facing Despair again. But to her big relief, the demoness was already gone. At least for now, Twilight wouldn't have to worry about her and she could take her time to digest this turn of events.
As the group returned to the ceremonial hall, they could see Lady Truesight finishing off the last cultist. The whole room was covered in bleeding corpses and even the black door to the sanctuary was torn open. It seemed like she wanted to make absolutely sure not a single insane pony or demon was still around.
Spitfire was still sitting close to the offertory table, observing the bloodshed speechlessly. Since the battle was pretty much over, Twilight aimed for her first.
"Are you ok?" she wondered.
"Who... who are you? Wait. I know some of you. Aren't you guys Rainbow Dash's friends?" Spitfire wondered.
"Well... yes... Anyway, I'm Twilight Sparkle and this is Rarity. We disguised ourselves as cultists to infiltrate the church. Over here are Applejack, Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom. The reaper mare who fought for us is Lady Truesight," Twilight explained.
"Well, thanks for saving my fur. For a moment, I thought I was done for. I owe you one for that," Spitfire responded.
"No problem. You are the captain of the Wonderbolts. We couldn't just let you die right there. But how did you end up captured by the cult?" Twilight spoke.
"I was finishing my daily routine at the academy when somepony snuck up on me from behind. I tried to fight back but, wow, who or whatever that was, it was fast! Well, next thing I know is that I woke up in this dungeon. Where's Rainbow Dash by the way?" Spitfire wondered.
All keepers of harmony suddenly lowered their heads and gained sad expressions.
"She... passed away a few years ago..." Twilight explained.
"Oh... Sorry..." Spitfire replied before lowering her head as well and sighed. "So that's why she never responded. A real shame. I rarely ever had such a great cadet before. She passed all the tests in record time and she really proved she had the moral understanding of a true Wonderbolt..."
"Yes... She really was special and we miss her a lot..." Rarity commented.
"Well... I can't change the past, but I think I really owe you a big one in Rainbow Dash's honor and for saving my life. If you ever need assistance by the Wonderbolts, we'll be there," Spitfire offered.
"Thanks. That certainly will be a big help," Twilight responded.
Spitfire saluted to the group to express her gratitude, then lifted into the air and flew out of the church. While the group turned around, they noticed that the reaper clairvoyant had been observing the scene the whole time.
"I am glad to see you came around, Truesight," Crystal Blossom started.
"Yes. Thank you for your-" Twilight wanted to add.
The rainbow-maned mare went right past the group without even looking at them and aimed for the dungeon of the church. In the heat of the battle, the cultists hadn't found the time to lock the metal door again, so she could just open it and walk inside.
Once again, the behavior of Truesight baffled the whole group. Had she not come to support Twilight and Rarity? Did she still not trust them? Then why was she here?
Twilight still sought for opportunities to avoid thinking about Despair, so she thought the best they could do would be to follow Truesight and free all the victims of the cult. As usual, Twilight lead the way inside the dungeon while the rest of the group followed.
The dungeon itself seemed more like a twisted mix of a torture room and a pantry than an underground prison. About fifty ponies of all sizes, genders, races and ages were stuffed into cages while various torture instruments were scattered everywhere. There even was an open section in the room where severed pony limbs were hung on hooks from the ceiling to let them drain out. Many of the victims were in bad shape and hardly even conscious. Naturally, their first reaction when the group entered was panic, which only got even worse as they started to break open the cages. But as they were explained that the group were no cultists and here to save them, the mood changed. Several victims suddenly broke out in tears. Some fell down before the hooves of Twilight and her friends and started kissing them with repeated words of gratitude while others started running for the exit straight away without even thanking.
But Truesight was not interested in any of them. She aimed straight for a tiny cage and slowly started opening the lock with a spell. As the keepers of harmony came over, the image presented to them nearly broke their hearts and made them cover their mouths.
Inside this cage was the by far youngest victim. An orange-brown filly, no older than two years. She was in terrible condition. Her mane and tail had been shaved off, her right eye had been removed and the eyelids sewn up. Her still working yellow eye had been blackened. She had scars and bruises all over her body. Dried blood covered large parts of her coat, but mostly covered the areas around her mouth and nose as if she had been beaten repeatedly. Yet, what made Twilight despise the BloodClaw Cult the most for what they had done to this innocent child was the fact that she also had streams of dried blood between her hind legs.
The little filly laid in the farthest corner of her cage, pressing herself against the metal, shaking all over and hyperventilating while she stared at Truesight. Finally, the cage opened.
Neither Truesight nor the little filly moved. They just kept looking at each other for nearly a minute, not saying or doing anything before the clairvoyant finally broke the silence.
"You can come out. I am not a pony. I won't cause you any harm," she spoke gently.
The filly kept on shaking and refused to move. After all she must have been through, it seemed like she did not believe Truesight's words.
Now, the reaper clairvoyant removed the hood from her head to reveal her rainbow mane. Instantly, the expression on the little filly changed. She stopped shaking and gazed at Truesight in fascination.
"Your name is Amber, right?" the red mare wondered.
"Y... Yes..." the filly replied, barely audible.
"I am Truesight. Come with me. I will take you far away from all these ponies," Truesight offered, reaching out a hoof to help.
Amber hesitated. Her focus turned over to Twilight and her friends. For some reason, the sight of the group caused her to start shaking again.
"Don't worry about them. Just stay close to me," Truesight kept speaking gently.
Still shaking, Amber stood up and slowly started walking towards Truesight. Her steps were very insecure, as if she hadn't been walking at all for a long time. Then, the filly placed her left front hoof on Truesight's. Moments later, Amber hid herself beneath the reaper cloak.
"You are acting very strange lately, Truesight," Crystal started. "You are usually such a lone wolf. You never showed any care for ponies and reapers alike. Yet, you put so much effort into rescuing this one child?"
"I have my reasons, elder," Truesight replied, then turned around and slowly left with Amber still hiding directly below her.
Even Twilight and her friends could tell that this scene was very weird and unusual, even though they hardly knew Lady Truesight. But the actions of this reaper mare should not be their main focus right now. There were still a dozen ponies sitting in their cages, too weak to move on their own. One by one, the keepers of harmony and Crystal Blossom helped the victims on their legs and assisted them on the way out.
Crystal made sure she remained next to Twilight while supporting a pony back outside. There was something she really needed to know and believed Twilight would have the answers needed.
"Pardon me, but I need to know what is behind this demon we encountered. I have never seen you this terrified before," she requested.
Twilight knew she had to talk about it sooner or later. Even though she wished it would be later, she also knew that she needed to get a hold of herself again quickly. After taking a deep breath, she started explaining.
"Her name is Despair. She is a unique demon that haunted me three years ago with the intention of driving me to insanity and making me give birth to a demon. I... am sort of responsible she exists," Twilight explained.
"You do not need to tell me these details if they still pain you," Crystal interrupted.
"Thank you... Well, she is very intelligent and powerful. She is the one who planned the extinction of the changelings and she even devoured the soul of the changeling queen. I managed to defeat her in a duel and she got consumed by Obsidian Shards, but it seems like this wasn't enough to finish her," Twilight continued.
"She mentioned a bond between you and her. Do you know what she meant?" the elder reaper mare wondered.
"Despair originally was a demonic imitation of me. She could steal my memories and knowledge just by looking into my eyes. The more she did that, the more this connection between us became stronger and stronger. I thought I had broken it by defeating her, but it looks like I was wrong. Anyway, it now seems like she is the Guillotine of Hope we kept hearing about. For some reason, she decided to become Black Widow's personal bodyguard and tactician," Twilight replied.
"Things are starting to become clearer. If she is really this good at planning, it would explain the excellent organization of the cult," Crystal commented.
"She waited for us... She knew we would be coming sooner or later..." Twilight spoke, starting to shake a little. "Knowing her, I wouldn't be surprised if she could predict our assault all along and used it to her advantage..."
"Do not let this get to you," Crystal started. "She might be back, but this whole scene was nothing but an act. She did not even have the intention to harm us. Despair was just bragging and showing off. You have defeated her once. You will defeat her again."
"You are right," Twilight responded with a sigh and started smiling again. "Thank you. I needed some motivation."
Several minutes later, all victims of the BloodClaw Cult were set free. The group was about to leave when they noticed one of them was missing.
"Hold on a minute. Where's Fluttershy?" Applejack wondered.
"Is she still down there?" Rarity asked.
The group turned around and went back inside the church. It was now that they noticed the yellow mare sitting on the ground, facing a corner while she had her head lowered to her heart pin.
"What's wrong, Fluttershy?" Twilight wondered.
"The prophecy... It was all a fake. The demons tricked us. Obsidian died for no reason..." the yellow mare replied.
"That's not fully true. The plan would have worked out if we didn't stop it. He still would have..." Twilight spoke.
Before she could finish, Fluttershy turned her head around to the group. It was now that they realized she was crying. Even though her face showed no expression, she had black tear trails running down her face.
"Oh, Fluttershy..." Twilight spoke and embraced her friend. ---
When they finally left the hotel again, they were welcomed by a large troop of royal guards.
"Twily! Is that you? Gosh, what a disguise!" a male voice spoke.
"Shining Armor!" Twilight replied and hugged her brother. "Gosh am I happy to see you again! How are mom and dad? Why are you here?"
"Our parents are fine. I convinced them to move to the Crystal Empire for as long as this civil war is going on. I'm here to take over the cleanup for you. I'm so relieved to see you healthy. Can't believe you tricked the Cakes into believing you are related to them to gain access to a BloodClaw church," Shining Armor replied.
As part of the arrangement, the last statement was a spoken out loud lie on purpose. It was very likely they would be observed by cultists or skin-walkers right now. With acting like they used the Cakes as a tool to gain access to the church against their knowing, they made sure none of them would get harmed by the cult. Yet, one thing confused Twilight.
"The Crystal Empire? Why there? That's a pretty long journey and its far away from Canterlot," she wondered in a whispering tone.
"In the past years, we found out something very interesting. You see how demons never leave Equestria? For some reason, they want to conquer this land first before even considering to touch foreign ground. Even if an insane pony leaves Equestria and gives birth do a demon out there, it always returns back to Equestria. It seems like they really, really want Princess Celestia more than anything. Since the empire was not present during Nightmare Moon's rise, the demons don't consider it as a part of Equestria and none of the crystal ponies are affected by the curse. You know which," her brother whispered back.
"Wait a minute. You know about..." Twilight started, but couldn't finish her sentence, since there were ponies present who didn't know about Maledictum Insania. "Well, that. And you can talk about it?"
"Members of the royal family don't get cursed with the curse of secrets. We are all on the same side and we all need to be able to talk about it. Anyway, I'm just here to tell you that you need to get back to Manehattan as fast as possible. Babs Seed thinks she found something. My guards will provide you additional protection," Shining Armor finished, then started speaking normally again. "We will take care of things from here on."
"Thanks, B.B.B.F.F. Let's hope this will all be over soon," Twilight finished and started walking.
The rest of the group followed her with mixed expressions, but only Fluttershy still had her head hanging low. ---
The journey back to Manehattan took another day to complete. Enough time for Twilight and Rarity to get rid of the makeup and dye. With everything that had happened, the group remained silent most of the time. Each one of them had something to think about.
As they arrived back in the big city, they realized it had become a lot more quiet. Since the civil war began, there constantly were battles in the streets. Now, it seemed almost peaceful again. But judging from the expressions of the citizens, it became obvious that fear and tension still filled the air. It was like the calm before a big storm.
When they finally arrived back at Babs Seed's apartment, the teenager could hardly suppress her excitement.
"Judging by the grin on your face, I take you found the church here, right?" Twilight figured.
"Yep! But not just that! I managed to catch some hints that the cultists are tryin' to bring something there!" Babs responded.
"Something? What exactly are we supposed to imagine, darling?" Rarity wondered.
"I'm not too sure. Even the cultists are secretive about it. Could be something of value to them or a pony," the teenager stated.
"Do ya think it might be that high priestess, Twi?" Applejack wondered.
"Doesn't seem very likely. The cult knows we have our base here. It's not usually Despair's way of thinking to make things this easy and obvious for us. But then again, she enjoys playing mind games. Hiding Black Widow here knowing we would think its too easy to be true... I'm really not sure what to think of this," Twilight explained.
"So Black Widow got away. Shoot... Wait. Despair? Who's that now?" Babs wondered.
"I'll tell you about her some other time. First of all... what do you think, girls? Should we check it out or not?" the purple mare asked.
"Babs went through a lot of effort to find this out. But if Despair is truly as smart as you describe her to be, we can not exclude the possibility of this turning out to be a trap. It is a gamble," Crystal stated.
"But even if it is a trap, we would still be able to attack another church and push the cultists out of Manehattan!" Rarity commented.
"Say, Babs: How's the cult behavin' around here lately?" Applejack wanted to know.
"Actually, I'm surprised about how quiet things have become. There's next to nothing happening anymore," the teenage filly replied.
"That makes it sound even more like they are setting up a trap. I don't get it. Why are they making it that obvious? What is Despair trying to do?" Twilight wondered.
"Considering how risky an attack would be, I would suggest that Fluttershy and I observe the church before we take any actions," Crystal suggested.
"That sounds pretty reasonable. Are you in for it, Fluttershy?" Twilight wondered.
"Oh... um... sure," the yellow mare replied, shaking herself out of her thoughts.
"Apprentice. I know this is hard for you to take in. But do not forget: You are a reaper now. You must learn to keep your feelings under control," Crystal commented.
"I will try... Anyway, I will help out spying on the church," Fluttershy agreed.
"Okay then. Come with me to the living room so I can show ya where the church is on the map," Babs stated. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Little Miss Poison | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 16: Little Miss Poison
"Twenty on the first floor. Eighteen on the second. Twenty-three on the third..." Crystal counted quietly.
For about four days, the two reaper mares had been observing a tall penthouse from various, well hidden positions. Due to the high attentiveness of the cultists, they both had to stay far away, otherwise they would risk getting seen and the church getting moved.
As always, the observations did not bring up much so far. Since the BloodClaw Cult openly declared war against the government of Equestria, they started making it a lot harder for Twilight's investigation team to gather information. All Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom could find out so far was that the cultists were constantly guarding every square inch of the Manehattan church and frequently exchanged watch shifts.
"They certainly are preparing for something," Fluttershy commented.
"Compared to yesterday, they more than doubled the number of watchmen on each window. Triple the needed amount of guards on the entrance. Every single one of them is taking their task very serious. It must be happening very soon. Maybe even today," Crystal stated.
"With all this caution, maybe it really is Black Widow they are bringing here," the yellow mare spoke.
"That would be a surprisingly illogical decision from the cultists. Especially with demons helping to organize the cult. But whatever it is they are bringing here, it certainly seems to be extremely important," Crystal replied.
Another hour of silence passed while the elder reaper mare kept observing the penthouse. Every once in a while, her focus jumped over to Fluttershy. Very often, she saw how her head was hanging low and she caressed the heart pin on her cloak.
"You are very absent-minded, apprentice," Crystal finally commented.
"Apologies, elder..." the yellow mare responded and started observing the BloodClaw church.
Again, nothing happened for ten minutes. Then, Fluttershy sighed and hung her head again.
"I'm sorry... I just can't focus..." she spoke.
"It is because of Obsidian, I guess?" Crystal wondered.
"Yes... I... I just can't get over it. He gave up everything that was important to him. He forced himself to say farewell to me. All because he thought he needed to die to prevent Nightmare Moon's resurrection. It all was for nothing... He turned into a red reaper and died for nothing..." Fluttershy spoke with a sad tone.
"He reached the end of his book of death. He would have only had a few days left to live anyway," Crystal tried to reason.
"Elder... you don't understand..." Fluttershy replied, black tears filling her eyes. "I was the one who killed him. I became a reaper just because of that. This cloak, this scythe and this curse... It all belonged to him. He died and I caused it because we both thought this would be the only way to prevent the prophecy... I... My very own hooves... killed the love of my life... for nothing."
"You only let the sorrow speak out of you, Fluttershy. Back then, you did not even know he was the third corrupted star. That was not the main reason why you killed him. Remember: He was attacking your friends. He was the one who caused their permanent injuries. You killed him not with the intention to prevent the prophecy, but to save your friends and to prevent Obsidian's soul from being claimed by Malice. You saved all of them, even him. Never forget that," the light blue mare responded.
"Right... That's right. But still... This is all so hard..." Fluttershy commented.
"Your grief is making you very emotional lately. Maybe you should go back and take a break. Collect yourself and meditate. Like this, I do not think you will be able to perform your duties," Crystal suggested.
"No... I can't. I am needed. I have to do this. No matter what, I just have to make all this mean something. I need to prove that I turned into a reaper for a good reason," Fluttershy decided while wiping the tears out of her eyes.
"Obsidian would be proud of you. By the way, did apprentice Derpy Hooves ever tell you how she became a reaper?" Crystal wondered.
"Not really," the yellow mare replied.
"I think you should ask her at some point. Perhaps her story would help you through your suffering," the elder reaper mare suggested.
"I will keep this in mind. Thank you," Fluttershy responded. ---
Two more hours passed by. Suddenly, a small convoy of cultists came around the corner close to the penthouse. In the center was a mare wearing a ceremonial dress and black cloth mask.
"Is that her?" Fluttershy wondered.
"It seems like it. So they really brought Black Widow here after all," Crystal responded.
"I take Despair is challenging us by doing this. And since she is a skin-walker now, she must be disguising herself as one of the cultists," Fluttershy analyzed.
"Now it is clear that this is a trap. They bait us with exactly what we want and prepared for a large-scale battle," Crystal added.
"We should tell Twilight about this. She should decide if we go for it or not," Fluttershy suggested.
"Of course. Let us go," the light blue mare responded. ---
After Fluttershy and Crystal brought the news back to the group, Twilight gained a thoughtful expression and started walking up and down the living room in Bab's apartment.
"This just seems to be too good to be true," Twilight started. "It would suit Despair's character to mock us like this and try to lure us out to fight, but she also knows how powerful I am. Risking the life of Black Widow, her protege, in a battle that just might turn into a victory for her? Even if she really doesn't care if the high priestess gets killed, she should know that this would be a fatal blow to the whole cult."
"Despair seemed to be annoyed and very arrogant. Perhaps she just had enough and wants to settle this, once and for all," Crystal figured.
"The whole church is full of cultists and they closely watch every step around the penthouse. She either is waiting for us to fight her, or she is preparing to attack us. What do you think, Twilight? What should we do?" Fluttershy asked.
The purple mare stopped. Slowly, her head lifted again and she watched the expressions of all her friends. They all looked worried, but determined.
"What would you say if I decided to give it a shot and attack the church?" she asked.
"Darling. No matter what happens, you have my support. I won't leave," Rarity stated.
"Ah just want this all to be over. I'll come with ya if you allow me to this time," Applejack spoke.
"Just for the faint chance to get Black Widow by doin' this, I would go for it," Babs Seed explained.
"It is your decision, Twilight. But if you decide to attack the church this time instead of trying to infiltrate it, Fluttershy and I will join you," Crystal spoke.
"Yes. No matter what you decide, I will do it," Fluttershy assured.
Again, Twilight's focus lowered to the ground and she started rubbing her chin. After a minute, she came to a decision.
"Let's go for it. Even if it is a trap, we might at least be able to drive the cult out of Manehattan if we round up enough support. And yes, AJ. We will need every help we can get, so you are very welcome to join in," the purple mare spoke.
"Alright. I'm in for it then," Applejack agreed.
"Can you contact the Manehattan police for us, Babs?" Twilight wondered.
"Sure! I think they're all pretty fed up with the cultists around here, so they'll give it their all to get rid of them," Babs responded.
"Good. I will write to Princess Celestia and ask her for some royal guards in addition. Do you have any idea how many cultists we have to expect?" Twilight wondered, turning over to Fluttershy and Crystal.
"Over the last few days, I counted about one hundred individuals on watch shifts at the windows. It would be a good idea to assume that at least the same number is patrolling inside the building," Crystal replied.
"Ok... a big troop of royal guards then. I think we should also get the reapers stationed in Manehattan to assist us. Can you inform them, Crystal?" Twilight added.
"Certainly. I will be back with them in an hour," the light blue mare agreed.
"Okay then. You get on your way too, Babs. Everypony else, prepare for the fight," Twilight announced. ---
A bit more than an hour later, several hundred ponies met up in front of Babs' apartment. Among them many police ponies, royal guards and five reapers, including Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom. But one pony was missing.
"Where is Babs? Why didn't she return?" Twilight asked in worry.
"Ah, right. I was supposed to tell you that she can't come," one of the police officers started. "When she informed us, we just got a notification that several colleagues got injured in a riot. She was ordered to assist and can't partake in this assault. Gosh was she angry about that. Anyway, she promised to make this up at some point."
"Great..." Twilight responded with a frustrated sigh.
"I think we will be able to do this without her, darling. Let us not waste any time!" Rarity stated.
"You're right. Everypony, listen up! Today, we will attack a full church of the BloodClaw Cult! Expect a very hard battle against a lot of cultists! If we pull this off properly, we will free Manehattan from these mad ponies! Let's go!" the purple mare announced and lead the way. ---
It did not take long for the troop to arrive at the penthouse where the cult was hiding. As soon as it came in sight, the reapers summoned their scythes and all others got ready to fight. But nopony came outside to stop them. Twilight couldn't see any cultists at the windows. Were they too late already? Did the cult once again sense an upcoming attack and move the church before they could reach it?
The troop stopped in front of the main entrance, the police ponies going ahead. Then, they kicked the door open and stormed inside. A lot of screaming from the police officers followed, ordering everypony who might be inside to freeze and surrender. But they soon had to realize that the entire main floor was clear.
Next, the royal guards entered, followed by the keepers of harmony and the reapers. Everything was empty. There was not a single cultist in the main floor. Still, the police ponies advanced upstairs. But Twilight just hung her head and sat to the ground.
"Gosh... I am so stupid. What was I thinking? If even Princess Celestia can't assault a church, then how am I supposed to?" she mumbled in regret.
"This is not entirely a failure, Twilight," Crystal commented. "At least, we now know that the cult is playing defens-"
"You! Freeze!" a police pony suddenly shouted upstairs.
Twilight instantly shot back up and started running the stairs. As she arrived in an empty living room, she couldn't believe what she was seeing.
Right there, completely unprotected and all alone, stood high priestess Black Widow in her ceremonial dress, wearing her black mask. She seemed to be injured in a way, since she hardly could keep herself upright.
The keepers of harmony felt like celebrating. Apparently, they caught Black Widow just before she could leave with the cultists. But to Twilight, this was extremely suspicious. Not even Despair remained here to protect her? Like the police officers, the royal guards and the reapers, the purple mare kept her guard up.
Two police ponies jumped Black Widow and pinned her to the ground. Then, they removed her mask. Beneath was the face of a green mare with orange mane. She immediately started grinning widely.
"The demon queen once again has judged you right. Heretics. You can not even begin to imagine what you have gotten yourselves into," she started speaking.
Now, the cheer vanished from Rarity's face and Twilight as well found confirmation that something was wrong. This voice was not the same they heard back in Fillydelphia. This was not the real Black Widow.
"What are you talking about?" Applejack wanted to know.
The mare started laughing lowly, followed by coughing. Then, her expression slipped into that of an insane pony.
"The Guillotine of Hope has a gift for you, keepers of harmony," the mare commented while coughing.
While at first not sure what this meant, the group moments later realized that black tears started flowing out of the mare's bloodshot eyes. They all instantly understood what this meant. The same thing happened to Twilight, three years ago. This mare was possessed by a fully developed, independent demon.
The mare's coughing quickly got worse and worse, to the point where she started coughing blood. But the police officers held her tight. Neither them nor the royal guards had any idea what was about to happen in a few moments.
"Everypony! Step back from her!" Crystal Blossom ordered.
Now, the two officers let go and all understood that something was very wrong with this mare and started getting nervous. The cultist tried to get back up, but found herself unable to do so. Instead, she gathered her last breath for one final speech.
"You defiled our holy grounds. You dared to attack our high priestess. With this, you evoked the fury of Nightmare Moon. Now, you shall all tremble, for she sent you one of her children to destroy you all," she spoke in a mixture of coughing and manic laughter, then collapsed dead.
The black tears kept flowing out of her eyes, mixing with the blood coming out of her mouth. Suddenly, both changed color into a radiant green, which seemed to evaporate into a fine mist.
Just a moment later, the cloud compressed into a small demon. She looked like a radiantly green filly with small wings and green clouds as mane and tail. Her eyes were colored entirely red and she grinned at the ponies with a set of sharp demonic fangs.
"Oooooh! So many ponies! This is great! I'm finally outside!" she spoke in a hyper tone and started bouncing around in excitement.
Nopony was too sure how to react. Only the reapers kept holding their scythes ready for use. After a while, the small green demoness stopped bouncing. She turned around to Twilight, tilted her head to the right and let her right ear hanging while the other stood upright.
"Hi! I'm Toxica! Want to play with me?" the demoness requested with a big grin.
The whole troop of ponies was deeply confused. None of them had been dealing with a demon before and it did not seem like she intended to harm them. They all just stood there, not knowing what to say or do.
"Did Despair send you?" Twilight wondered.
"Yep! Despy said that I could finally come out and play! I've been waiting sooooooooooo long for this day! What do you want to play?" Toxica replied, throwing a playful pose.
Now, some of the police ponies and royal guards started getting out of battle stance. It seemed like the playful and innocent nature of this demon made them judge her as no threat, but Twilight and the reapers kept on holding their guards up. Since Toxica did not get any answer, she started bouncing around again.
"I have an idea! How about we play tag? I'll be first to catch! One. Two..." she suggested.
Before she even finished counting, Toxica started to inhale. This was the sign for Twilight to create an arcane shield around her friends and herself.
As Toxica finished inhaling, she pressed her eyes shut. A split of a second later, the little demoness suddenly caused a humongous green explosion, powerful enough to blow the whole penthouse into pieces.
The ponies and reapers got launched all across the city. Even the keepers of harmony flew through the air inside the sphere of arcane magic. But as they looked around in panic, they had to realize with a shock that every pony aside of them already died.
The reapers were the only ones still alive. Crystal and Fluttershy spread their wings and tried to recover from the blast midair while they observed the dead ponies raining everywhere around them. Both came to realize that they were all physically unharmed. It was not the explosion that killed them.
After the penthouse blew up, massive green clouds filled the air. As the green smoke rushed down the streets, everypony that came in contact with it instantly fell over dead. Whatever this stuff was, it must be a poison even a lot more deadly than Basilisk Tongue.
Fluttershy, Crystal and another flying reaper instantly flew over to the keepers of harmony, catching the sphere in the air. Then, they slowly lowered it on a tall building where the green clouds couldn't reach.
Twilight was about to lower the shield when she saw another poison cloud rushing towards her. Like a green storm, it blew the reapers away, forcing them back into the air.
In the distance, Toxica levitated in the center of the green cloud, rapidly flapping her small wings and giggling while she held a hoof in front of her mouth. A moment later, she started flying towards Twilight.
Crystal lifted out of the poison cloud and flew towards the demoness. Yet, this only caused Toxica to spontaneously change her plan. She suddenly ignored the keepers of harmony and let the reapers chase after her.
"Catch me if you can!" Toxica shouted cheerfully.
It seemed like she rather took this as a game than an assault. The demoness aimed straight for large crowds of ponies, exhaling huge quantities of her lethal poison at them as she flew by. Within just the first minute of the battle, thousands of ponies were killed and more than half of Manehatten became shrouded in poison.
Another reaper jumped into the air, swinging his scythe at the demoness. She, though, aimed for the reaper and crushed him to the ground. As the bones snapped loudly, Toxica nearly instantaneously began to tear him apart. Even as Fluttershy came flying in and swung her scythe, Toxica just grinned and bounced aside.
"Oooh! Despy said I should be careful about you!" she spoke.
The little demoness quickly ran around the building next to her and started inhaling again. With the force of her poison breath, she somehow was able to push it over.
Fluttershy tried to help the fellow reaper back up. But as the ponies screamed in panic, she realized too late that the whole building came falling down on her. She could not react in time before she became buried beneath multiple tons of bricks while all ponies inside the building got squashed or fell right into the green smoke.
The sheer scale of destruction this one demon could cause was mind-blowing to Twilight. She had seen quite a few demons before, but none this powerful. Even her arcane magic would not help her right now. She and her friends were trapped inside the arcane shield, forced to just sit idly by and watch.
"Hihihi! This is so much fun! So many playmates! Where is the next? Where is the next?" Toxica commented in an ecstatic tone.
Even as two more reapers suddenly charged out of the green mist and towards the demoness, she kept on grinning and giggling the whole time. She just continued dodging the scythes and magic spells with playful jumps.
Crystal Blossom levitated high above the city. Somehow, she had to stop the poison from spreading. So she closed her eyes and started casting an ice spell. With a continuous light blue beam aimed to the ground, she tried to freeze the green clouds solid. It did not take much for her to cover at least a quarter of Manehattan into thick ice.
But then, she noticed that Toxica lifted into the air again and began to inhale. If she caused a second explosion, there would be next to no survivors in the entire city. In attempt to stop her, Crystal launched another ice spell on the demoness, aiming to freeze her as well. But Toxica dodged this attack swiftly.
"Hey! Was that a snowball? Come back!" the green demoness shouted and started flying away.
Crystal would have expected to be attacked now. Instead, Toxica chased after the ice spell. This demon was not just acting like a child. She really was absolutely unfocused and only wanted to play destructively. ---
Minutes passed by as Fluttershy slowly came back to her senses. Of course, the weight of the building was lethal and crushed her body. She could feel how the warm blood was running over her belly, face and front legs. But the reaper curse would not allow her to die. Her wounds slowly began to heal and her bones grew back together.
As she lay there, hardly able to move at all under the sheer weight of the rubble, she began to think. Crystal was right, she figured. She should have stayed in Babs' apartment.
Fluttershy had been through so much training. She used to be so effective. How come she just allowed this building to crush her? Had she given up without even realizing it herself? Had her grief really consumed her that much? Would it even make sense to try and go on from this point?
Just as she thought that, Fluttershy saw something. It looked like a gray hoof, offering her to get up. It had the same appearance as that of the gray figure which kept following her. But this time, it was closer than ever. The hoof was right next to her, reaching down from just above.
Fluttershy tried to reach for it. But just as she was about to touch it, the hoof retreated a bit. The yellow mare tried to move and struggled against the rubble. She could reach further now, but yet again, the hoof retreated.
Without realizing it, the yellow mare slowly fought her way back up. Then, she started seeing light. The hoof kept guiding her towards it, until she finally could reach out of the rubble.
Just moments later, she became grabbed, pulled out and lifted into the air. Though it was not the gray figure who did this. It was one of the reapers.
"Can you fly?" he wondered.
"No... My wings are broken," Fluttershy replied.
"I will bring you to that rooftop. We need your help. Crystal is doing everything she can to keep this demon busy, but we can't stop her," the reaper explained.
Yes. That's right. She still was needed. She couldn't let herself go like this. Not in the middle of a battle. She had to keep fighting. For her friends, for Equestria and for her mistress. After Fluttershy landed on the rooftop of another tall building, she started snapping her bones back in place and collected herself. ---
Crystal Blossom used all sorts of ice spells to keep Toxica occupied. This was about as much as even she could do. This demon clearly needed more than five reapers to be slain. But they still had a chance to win. They only needed to find Fluttershy again.
Finally, the other reapers gave the signal. Confirming with a nod, Crystal decided to fly by just in front of Toxica's eyes.
As hoped, the demoness took this as an invitation to chase her. The elder reaper mare guided Toxica back into her own poison clouds and flew several sharp turns around the buildings. Toxica, though, had no issues to follow. Then, Crystal flew over a rooftop.
The little demoness followed, but as she lifted up, she was greeted by a pair of black eyes, staring down at her. An inexplicable sensation of shock blasted the smile out of Toxica's face and paralyzed her. Next, she found herself getting pinned down by the same yellow mare staring at her.
Toxica tried to struggle, but before she could get anywhere, she saw a light blue beam hitting her. Ice started to rapidly grow around the green demoness' body. She couldn't move anymore. She was trapped.
Now, the reapers all came to the rooftop and gathered around the frozen demoness. She still had dread written on her face.
"This seems to be it," one of them commented.
"Let us not waste any time. She must be consu-" Fluttershy started.
Before she could even finish, the yellow mare suddenly experienced a sensation of danger, along with all the other reapers. They tried to turn around, but suddenly were crushed down and held tight by countless black arms. As they lifted their heads, they saw Slendermane.
The faceless demon casually walked over to the group and lifted up the chunk of ice which held Toxica imprisoned. Then, he crushed it to let her free. The little demoness shook herself, then gained an upset expression.
"See, Slendy? That's what happens when you don't let me out to play!" she complained.
Slendermane turned his head over to her. Then, Toxica jumped on his back.
"I guess you are right. I really should have chosen better playmates. Oh well. Bye bye, ponies!" she spoke and waved all of Manehattan goodbye.
Directly after, Slendermane and Toxica fell through the shadow below them and vanished. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Disappearance | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 17: Disappearance
Even with the help of magic, it took hours to clear out the thick poison clouds filling the city. Hours which ended up costing the lives of two-thirds of Manehattan's population. Even after the clearing was finished, ponies kept on dying. Many who stepped out too soon after the clouds were gone started getting high fever, followed by coughing, vomiting blood and death not much later. It seemed like Toxica did not only spread poison, but also left behind an unknown disease. As this assumption came up, Manehattan became declared a quarantine zone.
The demons did it once again. Even though most of Manehattan was still intact, living in this city had become impossible. Every normal pony spending too much time on the ground without proper protection would end up getting infected and finding death not much later.
As it is to expect, the sheer quantity of victims was not manageable for the sparsely support of reapers available. The streets were filled with undead ponies, moaning in agony. Even though most of them were just confused, desperate and looking for help, they terrified the few survivors of Toxica's attack, causing them to flee. Only the five reapers kept on roaming through the streets to put an end to the undead ponies' miseries. Each time they reaped one, they checked for a mark behind the ears of the corpses.
"None... Not a single cultist," Fluttershy stated.
"It seemed like they pulled off a mind-trick on us. First, they make it look like they are gathering up. Then, they disappear from Manehattan entirely. They knew this demon, Toxica, was a weapon of mass destruction and fled after placing her in position," Crystal analyzed.
"They aimed to cause as many casualties as possible. I would not be surprised if they actually aimed for Twilight to launch a large attack on the Manehattan church," a reaper stallion added.
"Hundreds of police officers and royal guards. Killed in one single blow. This was a heavy strike towards Equestria's defences and a very impressive display of power from the cult," a fourth reaper continued while slicing his scythe through a panicking undead mare.
"At least we can claim the undead ponies are because of Toxica's poison," Crystal started. "But you are right. This was a terrifying blow to Equestria. Manehattan was the most densely populated city in the whole land and only Canterlot would have even more citizens. Something like this must not happen ever again."
"We need to split up, or we will need days to put all the undead to rest," a reaper mare suggested.
"I will stay with my mentor," Fluttershy stated.
The other reapers nodded and went on their ways. As always, Fluttershy was very gentle and somehow could get the undead ponies into agreeing to be put down by her. Especially the foals seem to trust her blindly. Each time, Fluttershy embraced them and quickly ended their suffering in one swift strike.
Crystal Blossom was similar, though she knew they had to hurry to catch every last undead as soon as possible. After a while, though, she stopped and turned to Fluttershy.
"I can tell you want to talk to me," she started.
"Well... yes. Do you remember this gray thing I told you about?" the yellow mare wondered.
"I do," Crystal replied.
"It has returned again. I saw it while I was buried beneath the rubble," Fluttershy explained.
"What did it do this time?" the elder reaper mare wanted to know.
"I'm not sure. I think it reached for me. But then again, it wouldn't let me touch it," Fluttershy answered.
"It must have been very close this time," Crystal figured.
"Yes. Right next to me. It never came this close before. I really don't think I am imagining all this," the yellow mare stated.
"Yet it confuses me how only you are capable of seeing this creature," Crystal spoke.
"Well, maybe I'm the only one who can see it. But I'm not the only one who can sense it. Twilight, too, noticed it before," Fluttershy explained.
"You mean back then when you last told me about the gray figure? When the cultist was spying on us in the meadows of Trottingham?" Crystal wondered.
"Yes," Fluttershy confirmed with a nod.
"Do not get me wrong. I do not believe that you are imagining it. What do you suppose are it's motives?" the light blue mare asked.
"I don't have the slightest clue. It comes and goes as it wishes," Fluttershy replied.
"As long as it does not pose a threat to us or interrupts our cause, I do not see a reason why we should be concerned. This creature may be interesting, but we have other priorities right now. With the annihilation of Manehattan, the war against the demons and the BloodClaw Cult has once again reached a whole new level. Everything must be put aside for the sake of bringing down the cult as quickly as possible," Crystal stated.
"I guess you are right. Well, let's finish this up and get our friends off from that roof finally," Fluttershy spoke. ---
The sun was already setting. Yet Twilight, Rarity and Applejack were still stuck on the building. Rarity had a frightened expression frozen on her face and observed in shock as the undead ponies were walking through the streets, moaning, crying and begging for help. Twilight sat in place idly and kept her head hanging the whole time. But Applejack seemed to be the most uneasy. She continuously kept walking back and forth, constantly observing the streets. Then suddenly, the orange mare stopped and sighed in relief.
"Babs! Are ya okay, Sugarcube? We're up here!" she shouted.
The teenage filly was wearing a surgical mask and some hoof-covers. While at first confused, she instantly seemed relieved as well as she looked up and saw her older cousin.
"Applejack! Oh gosh! Applejack!" Babs shouted back with tears in her eyes.
She quickly ran inside the building and up the stairs to the roof. Applejack was about to hug her, but the teenage filly rose her front leg to stop her.
"Don't! I may still have something on my coat! Can't have ya die from this disease now, too!" she shouted.
"Ya're right. Oh, thank Celestia. I'm just so relieved to see... die, too?" Applejack wondered in a worried tone.
"Mom and Dad... they are dead... I just checked on them," Babs responded, now crying.
"Oh no... not again... Ah'm so sorry, Sugarcube..." Applejack spoke and started to cry as well.
Silence filled the rooftop for minutes while all of them tried to collect themselves again. Ultimately, it was Rarity who broke the silence again because the sight in front of her just confused her too much.
"Excuse me, Babs... But how did you get your hooves on that mask and these boots? What happened down there? How did you know what to do?" she wondered.
"The riot was pretty bad... A few colleagues got hurt and I had to help them get to the hospital. Then, I heard this really big explosion. At first, I was just as confused as all the other ponies around me. But then, I remembered what this reaper lady told me and sealed myself in an airtight surgery room. Just moments later, this green stuff broke the windows of the hospital and came stormin' in... Everypony else dropped dead before my eyes... I stood in there for a few hours, then put on this mask and these boots. Looks like you can really trust the words of a reaper clairvoyant. She pretty much saved my life with that warning... I just wished she would've saved my parents, too," Babs explained, slowly starting to cry again.
"Still, Ah think we definitely have to thank Truesight for that..." Applejack spoke, then turned her head to look across Manehattan. "Heavens to betsy... Will ya look at all this. The whole city is dead..." .
"More like zombified..." Babs spoke, still sniffling. "It's like a horror movie comin' true..."
"This is dreadful... To think of that this all was done by just one demon..." Rarity commented.
"One demon? Are ya serious?!" Babs asked in shock.
"Yes... Shoot... I can't believe it. I fell for it. I really fell for it... All those guards and police officers we brought to the church are dead because of me..." Twilight spoke in regret, bordering to break out in tears.
"Darling... it's not your fault! You couldn't have possibly known this would happen," Rarity spoke in attempt to calm her down.
"Actually, I should have seen this coming. It's Despair who set up this trap. I should have known she would pull off something like that," the purple mare kept speaking, her voice getting hoarse while the tears started flowing down her face.
"Enough is enough, Twilight! Snap out of it!" Rarity started in a more serious tone. "Honestly, you don't have to act as if you would be the expert about Despair. She is unpredictable! What she does is not your responsibility! Neither are you to blame if you can not stop her! Ever since she revealed herself, you are taking this all way too personal!"
"Sorry... You're right, Rarity. I have to keep it together..." Twilight replied and wiped her face dry.
For a while, the group stopped speaking. All that could be heard was the moaning and crying of the undead ponies in the streets. The sound and the sight of the city, as well as the desperation of her friends and the horrible news that, once again, Apple family members had died made Applejack forget her relief over Babs' return and made her depression resurface.
"What are we goin' to do now, y'all?" she wondered.
"I guess we just have to wait. Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom will certainly come to pick us up once they are done," Twilight stated.
Applejack just nodded and hung her head again. She tried not to listen, but to her, the crying of the undead below them was deafening. She just couldn't take all these horrible impressions anymore. Sometimes, she wished she would have never agreed to come with Twilight.
Over time, the sounds of the undead reduced more and more. As it finally became silent in the city, Fluttershy and Crystal returned.
"I apologize for letting you wait so long. Our task is done here. We can leave now," Crystal stated.
Mutely, the ponies just nodded in agreement. Then, one by one, they were carried through the air, far away from the now dead city. ---
After a long late-night walk, the group came across some rails. They kept hiding nearby for nearly an hour before they saw a train approaching them. Then, they swiftly jumped aboard. Since they had to do this several times before on their journey to Fillydelphia and back, they were all pretty good at this by now. Still, they had to be quiet to not arouse the attention of any potential cultists. But luckily, the train was on its last ride back to the depot. Aside of the conductor, they were the only ponies aboard.
After the group claimed a carriage, Twilight and Crystal cast a few illusion spells on it, making it appear empty from the outside. Then, they unrolled a map of Equestria and pinned it against a wall by magic.
"Alright... Let us think this through logically," Twilight started. "We have cultists pretty much all over Equestria by now. In these cities, we found churches of the BloodClaw Cult. How does it all come together? Where should we go?"
"Sheesh. I don't know, Twilight. I don't even know where to go anymore. My home is gone... My parents are gone..." Babs spoke in a depressed tone.
"You really do not have to force yourself through all this," Crystal started. "You are still so young and you have already been through so much that we need to start being concerned about your mental well-being."
"Yes. I have to agree with Crystal here. You have done a lot for us, Babs. But now, I think it would be best you just go away from all this for a while. I have good connections to the Crystal Empire. I'm sure Applejack would also be relieved to know you are in safety over there," Twilight suggested.
"Ah sure would love the idea that at least one Apple is out of danger... Ah know ya wanna help, Sugarcube... But please, do this for me and for yaself... Okay?" Applejack begged.
"Well... Okay... I'll go... I'm sorry I couldn't help out that much..." Babs apologized.
"You were a great help, darling! We would still be wandering around aimlessly if it weren't for you!" Rarity objected.
"Thanks... Alright... I'll just lie down for a while then... Good night," the teenage filly replied, then walked into a dark corner and curled up on the seat.
Twilight, Rarity and Applejack glanced over to her for a while, their expressions filled with regret and condolence. Babs just lost everything she had. She didn't deserve this and neither should she have to go through all this at her age.
"Maybe we shouldn't have set up our base in Manehattan... Perhaps all this would never have happened then," Twilight whispered in a sad tone.
"The cult would have attacked Manehattan sooner or later anyway. They stop for nothing. This isn't our fault, Twilight," Fluttershy replied quietly.
The purple mare took a deep breath and sighed. Then, her focus returned to the map.
"Anyway, let's go back to our plans. Where do we go next? Where could Black Widow possibly be at?" she wondered.
"I have no idea, darling... Oooh if only I could remember where I heard that voice before..." Rarity responded in frustration.
"Right. I never asked you about it. You heard Black Widow's voice before?" Twilight wondered.
"Yes. I am absolutely sure I know her voice. I just can't seem to remember from where," the fashion diva replied.
"Please, try your best to remember, Rarity. If we can find out Black Widow's identity, we will have it a lot easier to catch her," Fluttershy requested.
"I'm seriously trying, darling! I'm on it ever since I heard her at the Fillydelphia church! But I simply can not remember! This is so frustrating!" Rarity spoke while holding her head with both front legs.
"Let us not stress this out too much," Crystal started. "There is little point in frustrating yourself like this if you just can not remember. Let us go for other clues."
"I wished we had any, but all our informations are in Manehattan. We have to start all over again and time is running," Twilight explained.
Minutes passed by while everypony tried to put things together for themselves. Occasionally, they exchanged a few words and suggestions, but none made any real sense.
The more time passed, the more they all found themselves sitting on different windows, staring into the night while sinking deeper and deeper into thoughts. Fluttershy was no different. But then, she saw something in the reflection of the window, causing her to jump up in surprise.
"Huh? What's wrong, Fluttershy?" Applejack asked.
Before she even replied, Twilight as well suddenly seemed to be torn out of her thoughts and looked around in search.
"There is this feeling again! What is this?" she wondered.
Now, Crystal Blossom started to closely observe both Fluttershy and Twilight. While the purple mare kept on looking around in confusion, Fluttershy's focus was pinned to the map on the wall.
"Canterlot?" she spoke.
"Huh? What do you mean, Fluttershy?" Twilight asked.
"Something is... Oh... It's gone again," the yellow mare replied.
"What is gone again? Huh? Now that you mention it, that strange feeling has disappeared. Could you feel it, too? And what's with Canterlot?" the purple mare wondered while getting up and walking over to the map.
"I'm being stalked by some strange gray figure that only I seem to be able to see. I talked about it with my mentor before, but we just can't make sense out of what it wants. Right now, it just stood over there by the map, pointing at Canterlot," Fluttershy explained.
"So it happened again. You were right, apprentice. Twilight truly seems to be able to sense it, too," Crystal commented.
The group observed Twilight while she closely studied the map. Slowly, her eyes grew bigger and bigger.
"This... this can't be possible... I'm sure I'm just mistaking something here. This is absolutely not thinkably possible..." she spoke in stun.
"What is it, darling?" Rarity wondered.
"Look at the patterns. The influence of the BloodClaw Cult is growing out from the center of Equestria. If you look at where we could find churches... The newer ones are all the farthest away while the older ones are closer to the center... Like everything is spreading out from Canterlot..." Twilight explained.
"Are ya sayin' the cult has its roots in the capital of Equestria?! They had been spreading out from right under Princess Celestia's nose the whole time?!" Applejack asked in disbelief.
"I can hardly believe it myself, but that's where everything points to! The command center of the BloodClaw Cult must be in Canterlot!" Twilight replied.
"'Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer,'" Crystal quoted. "Now that I think of it, this would make a lot of sense. If they are this close to the princesses, it would explain why they are so successful at intercepting our mistress' plans."
"But that means that the princesses are in danger," Fluttershy commented.
"Oh my gosh... Maybe they are just waiting for the right opportunity to assault Canterlot Castle! I need to write to the princesses right now!" Twilight spoke.
"Not just that, but we also have our next goal now. If this assumption is correct, there might be a good chance to find Black Widow in Canterlot. We need to go there, but do not mention it in the letter. We can not take the risk of the cult finding out that we are on the way," Crystal suggested.
"Yes, good idea. Okay girls. We are heading to Canterlot tomorrow. Maybe, just maybe, we are finally lucky for once and able to end it all before it is too late," Twilight agreed.
"We should all get some sleep then," Fluttershy suggested.
"Yes... It has been a pretty bad day. But Fluttershy: We will need to talk about this thing following you soon. Anyway, good night," Twilight finished.
With these words, the group disbanded and they all climbed on a seat to sleep. ---
Just an hour later, Applejack suddenly shot up from a nightmare. Her eyes were wide open and she was breathing fast. But slowly, as the realization kicked in that she had just been dreaming, she began to calm down.
Yesterday was an especially hard day for her to take. Every new death in her family weighted on her ten times more than the last. In addition to that, she just witnessed the deaths of several ten thousand ponies. It wouldn't have been half as bad if they would at least have stayed dead. But no. They were forced back on their legs. They were walking down the streets. Crying in agony and desperation. Another thing that traumatized Applejack so much, it kept haunting her in her dreams.
She just didn't want to fall asleep again. Ever again. Applejack just wished she could clear her brain of all these memories. Of the knowledge that nearly her whole family had been murdered by now. This knowledge made her restless, made her desperate. She just couldn't take it anymore.
Applejack stood up and quietly opened the carriage door. She just needed a moment to be by herself. Just a moment. So she stepped into another empty carriage and started walking up and down, trying her best to digest her nightmare and the memories.
But at this point, everything just seemed nightmarish to her. The darkness in the carriage, with just few beams of moonlight falling into it, getting cut every now and then as the shadow of a tree rushed by. The noise of the train as it rolled through the land. The vibration of the floor, crawling up into Applejack's legs. Everything was too hard for her to handle. She just wanted to cry. Cry and wish this all would have never happened.
The orange mare sat down in front of a window and gazed into the distance. Even the rapid motion of the landscape passing by was too intense for her, since her mind was already overloaded with impressions and suffering. So, she finally just closed her eyes, leaned her head against the glass and began to sob heavily.
"This is what you get for fighting us," an echoing voice spoke from directly behind.
The shock and surprise made Applejack drop to the floor. As she looked up, she glanced right at Despair. Applejack was about to scream, but the demoness placed her left front leg on her mouth.
"Shouting won't help you. I used a spell to seal this whole carriage and made it soundproof. But don't worry. I'm not here to hurt you or any of your friends. I just want to have a little talk, that's all," Despair replied.
Slowly, the demoness let go of the orange mare, who just kept lying on the floor, shaking all over in fear.
"W... W-what do ya want from me?" Applejack wondered.
"I spent so much time with Twilight in the past that I never really got to know any of her friends. So here I am, just gifting you some of my precious time for a little chit-chat," Despair replied while walking over to a seat and grinning widely. "By the way: Don't you think I'm just brilliant for how I made your cousin be the one sending you all into my trap?"
"So that's why ya got the cult to kill aunt and uncle Orange, but not her. Ya're such a beast to use mah family like that," Applejack spoke angrily, slowly getting up again.
"Don't be mad. At least, she is still alive," Despair responded, tilting her head and gaining an arrogant smile. "For now."
"Don't ya dare! She already lost her parents! How much more do ya want to let her suffer? How many Apples more do ya want to kill before ya are finally satisfied? Ah won't have it anymore! I'd rather kick ya down right here and now then let ya do anything to mah family anymore!" Applejack stated furiously, throwing a battle pose.
Though Despair just kept sitting on her seat, smirking at the orange mare and chuckling lowly.
"And here I am, thinking I could do you a favor by making Babs similar to you. I thought you would appreciate my gift of finally having somepony who has been through similar things as you did: Parents lost in your youth. Not knowing what the future will hold for you. Clinging to every bit of family you have left, yet it is withering away and there is nothing you can do against it," she commented casually.
"Shut up, you monster!" Applejack shouted and started charging Despair.
Suddenly, a new arm began to grow out of Despair's back. Before Applejack could react, the large claw grabbed her and held her into the air.
"What do you think you could do against me? Even Twilight Sparkle is hardly an enemy for me. How much do you think a crippled, useless, broken mare like you could do?" the demoness questioned.
Applejack kept struggling for a moment. But as soon as Despair finished speaking, she hung her head.
"So that's what ya're here for, right? To make me see how useless I am. Ya're wasting yer time then. Ah already know that. All the time, Ah couldn't help mah friends the least bit. I'm always just in their way. They're acting as if that's not true, but they're just bein' nice to me... A crippled, useless pony who can't stop her family from diein'..." she replied.
"So you are finally admitting it! You are just a burden to your friends and a waste of space! Then why do you even try to keep going? What point does your whole existence have?" Despair wondered.
"Honestly...? At this point... Ah don't even know anymore..." the orange mare answered in a depressed tone.
Despair grinned widely, then dropped Applejack back to the ground. The orange mare looked up to the demoness in anger. She watched as the arm disappeared in Despair's body again, she got up from her seat and walked over to a window. Nearly twenty seconds of silence passed before the demoness gained her typical sinister smile again.
"Cultists in Baltimare. Cultists in Trottingham. Cultists in Manehattan. Cultists in Fillydelphia. Those were all big cities and they still conquered them with no problem. What makes you think they won't go for smaller places, too?" Despair asked.
"What... what do you mean?" Applejack asked back, very unsure and started to shake again.
"Oh, nothing," the demoness replied while eyeing up her front hoof. "I just don't think that Ponyville is so safe right now."
"You... You wouldn't dare!" Applejack shouted in disbelief.
"Maybe I wouldn't. But what about the cultists? Can the same thing be said about them? You know they are disguising themselves. As dock workers, janitors, police officers, receptionists..." Despair spoke, now slowly turning her head over to Applejack and gazing at her with glowing red eyes. "Maybe even as fruit pickers on an apple orchard."
Applejack was like paralyzed. She just sat there, shaking heavily. Not a single word would leave her mouth anymore. Despair grinned once again, then canceled the spell which prevented Applejack from running away or alarming the group.
"Well, it has been a nice talk. Have a good night," Despair spoke.
After that, the demoness teleported away. Applejack kept sitting on the ground for nearly a minute, still shaking all over and hyperventilating. Then, her eyes swiftly jumped between the two doors of the carriage. The right lead back to the group, the left to the next carriage.
Applejack jumped back on her legs and started running towards the right door. But just as she was about to reach it, she stopped. She turned around and ran back to the middle of the carriage. Applejack just wasn't sure what to do anymore, which caused her to quickly walk back and forth. Then, she stared at the left door. After glancing a few times back to the one leading to the group, she ultimately ran to the left, opened the door and went through. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | The Apple and The Knife | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 18: The Apple and The Knife
Another barely restful night had passed for the keepers of harmony. They all woke up with aching necks and backs. Still sleepy, Twilight took her medication, then looked through the windows to scan the area around them. As expected, the train had stopped in the depot. The only creature that could be seen outside was a single reaper, hiding in the shadows and waiting for the group to reveal itself. Twilight had asked in her letter for one to be sent to them in order to escort Babs Seed to the Crystal Empire savely. So, judging that it was safe around them, Twilight removed the spell she put on the carriage.
The reaper immediately spotted them and approached the train. After stepping inside, he bowed down to the group.
"It is an honor to serve you, keepers of harmony," he spoke.
"It's always impressing to see how good at finding things your kind is. Thanks for making it here so quickly. We really are in a hurry," Twilight replied with a tired smile.
"Is your friend ready to travel?" the reaper wondered.
The purple mare turned around to see that Babs was still sleeping in the corner. She hated to wake her up, especially after what Babs had just been through. But they had no time to waste.
"Give me a moment, please," Twilight requested, then went over to the teenage filly and gently placed her right front hoof on her back. "Babs. Hey. Sorry to wake you up, but your transport is ready."
Babs did not respond. Instead, she just slowly pushed herself up and mutely went over to the reaper. She was still pretty much sleepwalking and not thinking, just like most of the group. The reaper and Babs already left the carriage when Twilight suddenly noticed something.
"Hey, AJ. Don't you want to say goodbye to your cousin?" Twilight asked into the room.
It took a second for the purple mare to realize that she got no answer. Slowly, her eyes wandered across the carriage.
"Applejack? Where are you?" she wondered, looking around.
The rest of her friends now as well began to look for the orange mare all over the train. The longer it took them, the more they came to their senses as they slowly began to realize that their friend had vanished.
After a while, the group realized that this search was useless. Applejack was not on the train or anywhere nearby.
"What happened to her? Did anypony see something?" Rarity asked in worry.
"I saw her walking into another carriage last night, but I wouldn't have thought she would actually run away," Fluttershy responded.
"She ran away?! Now, of all times?!" Twilight shouted in disbelief.
"Her condition kept on getting worse and worse. Yesterday's mass murder seemed to hit her in particular. I suppose she reached the point where she just stopped thinking logically and acted out of emotion," Crystal analyzed.
"I think I already have an idea where she might have gone to," the purple mare spoke with a sigh. "Girls, forget about Canterlot for the moment. We need to find Applejack and make sure she's okay. Knowing her, I am pretty sure she went back to Ponyville."
"That would make sense, seeing how much she worries about her big brother. But still! I just can not believe she did this now that we are this close to find the roots of the cult!" Rarity spoke in frustration.
"Rarity... if she goes that far, we have every reason to be worried. I can understand why she did this. I think I would have acted just the same way," Twilight figured.
"What do you plan to do with her once we find her again, Twilight?" Fluttershy wondered.
"It would be pretty arrogant from any of us to force her to keep going with us. If she reached her limit, we should just make sure that she stays out of danger," the purple mare explained.
"Very reasonable. I think she badly needs some time to recover as well," Crystal agreed.
"Well then. Let's go," Twilight announced, lifting her saddlebag on her back by magic and opened the door out of the train. ---
The journey back to Ponyville took more than five days. It was late afternoon already when they finally spotted their village over the next hill.
"Feels good to see home again," Twilight commented with a happy sigh.
"While we are here, we should get some supplies. With the way of how things are going lately, I'm sure we will need at least a few more days to reach Canterlot," Rarity suggested.
"Alright. You go and get the supplies then while the rest of us go to Sweet Apple Acres," the purple mare agreed.
"See you in half an hour!" Rarity spoke and went on her way. ---
When Twilight, Fluttershy and Crystal arrived in the village, they instantly were surprised to see how silent and deserted the village seemed. Next to nopony was outside and it was so quiet, they could have heard a pin drop.
As they went on, they only came across two ponies walking by. Twilight lifted a hoof to greet them, but as soon as they spotted her, they began to run away and hide.
"Something is going on here," Twilight figured with a suspicion filled expression. "I do remember that Ponyville always had a low population and was pretty still, but not that much."
"Yes. This is really odd. Nopony even seems to have missed us," Fluttershy commented.
"Not only that, but we are being observed. Do not turn your head, but look over to the window to your right," Crystal stated.
"I see it. Well, let's hurry to the farm. After that, we will see if we can find out what's going on here," Twilight suggested. ---
Just minutes later, Rarity arrived at the local grocery. She opened the door by magic and trotted in light-hooved, humming a song.
"Hello, Matilda! It is so nice to see-" she spoke.
Rarity stopped as she realized it was not the jenny who stood behind the counter. It was a pony stallion who she had never seen before. The stallion as well seemed to be very surprised to see Rarity.
"Um... Isn't this Matilda's grocery store?" the fashion diva wondered.
"Well, not anymore. She sold it and moved away," the stallion replied, now smiling. "Excuse me for asking, but aren't you Miss Rarity?"
"Oh, why yes! You have heard of me?" Rarity replied, throwing a pose and stroking through her mane.
"How can I not! You are famous! I really like your designs! I only started up a store here in Ponyville in hope I could meet you!" he explained.
"Oh, that's so charming. Sorry for changing the topic here, but do you have any idea why Matilda left Ponyville?" the fashion diva wanted to know.
"Actually, now that you mention it, she left something behind for you. I put it somewhere back in the storage. Would you like to help me looking for it?" the stallion offered.
"Thanks, but I would rather like to stay here," Rarity replied.
"Are you sure? It can take a while. You must be terribly busy," the stallion spoke, now opening the counter door and making a gesture to invite Rarity to come.
"Eh, yes. I am pretty sure. And don't worry. I'll just wait," she responded, now starting to feel a little inconvenient.
Suddenly, the stallion let out a sigh and hung his head. Then, he stooped down to pick something up from behind the counter.
"I think you don't quite understand, Miss Rarity. I insist," he spoke.
As his head came into Rarity's sight again, she realized with a shock that he held a dagger in his mouth. She instantly turned around and wanted to run away, but a pony mare was already behind her, closing the door and locking it. ---
Ten minutes later, Twilight arrived at the entrance gate to Sweet Apple Acres. The more she walked, the more an expression of worry and suspicion grew on her face.
"Did you two see Derpy anywhere?" Twilight asked to Fluttershy and Crystal.
"No," the elder reaper mare responded.
"This is not a good sign. She should be patrolling around here. We should have seen her somewhere by now," Fluttershy commented.
Now, Twilight decided to strike up a faster pace across the orchard, aiming straight for the home of the Apple family. The feeling of worry only grew stronger and stronger as the purple mare came to realize that the farm was entirely deserted. Not a single fruit picker was around, even though several apples were ready to be harvested and some had already started to rot.
Finally, as the three mares were getting close to the house, Twilight began to hear a faint sniffling and sobbing. This caused Twilight, Crystal and Fluttershy to start running. They came rushing to the front door, swiftly opened it and ran inside. All they could see so far was the family dog Winona, shaking heavily and hiding under a table in the living room.
"Applejack! Are you here? Applejack!" Twilight started calling.
She did not get any response, but could still hear the sobbing from above. The purple mare ran ahead and up the stairs. Down a small corridor, they could track the sound to Big Macintosh's bedroom. As soon as she opened the door, the sight shocked Twilight deeply.
Applejack was sitting on the floor, turned away from them and staring at the bed. The sheets were colored in the dark red of dried blood. It also partially stained the floor, though some still seemed to be fresh and liquid. On the bed lay the dead body of Applejack's brother. His eyes were wide open and dull with an expression of shock. The deep cut in his throat seems to have been the reason for his death.
"Oh my gosh..." was all Twilight could say at this moment.
Applejack didn't even seem to realize her friends were there. She just kept on crying endlessly. Even Twilight was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of desperation Applejack was going through right now and couldn't hold back her own tears.
"He is already reaped," Fluttershy whispered to her mentor.
"I do not think that this is a reaper's work. The cut is too sloppy, as if the wielder did not know how to use a scythe properly. Also, no reaper would aim for the throat first when using a reaper scythe for assassination instead of open combat. This would also explain why apprentice Derpy Hooves has gone missing," Crystal whispered back.
Neither Applejack nor Twilight noticed any of the conversation. They did not care about it anyway. Applejack was just too lost in the sight before her to discern anything else around her and Twilight was still trying to figure out what to say now.
Suddenly, they could hear the front door slam open and a set of hooves rushing inside and upstairs. Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom instantly jumped into battle stance. Though they left it again immediately as they realized it was Rarity running towards them. She had a black eye, bleeding nose and several bleeding cuts on her body.
"Cultists! There are cultists in-" Rarity shouted, but then stopped, covered her mouth with her right front leg and gained a shocked expression as she saw what the others were seeing. "Oh my stars..."
Again, a moment of silence passed. But finally, Twilight began to approach Applejack.
"AJ... I'm... I'm so sorry..." she started.
"Ya should be, Twilight. Ya're the reason for this after all," Applejack responded, still crying.
Twilight stopped her approach, shocked from this statement.
"W... what?" she spoke.
"If ya wouldn't have started yer stupid crusade against the cult, all this wouldn't have happened. My family... Big Mac... they all could still be alive if you wouldn't have provoked them," Applejack kept blaming in a mix of complete desperation and underlying fury.
"That's... That's not true, Applejack! I know you are heartbroken right now, but this is just cold of you to say!" Rarity responded in protest.
Now, the orange mare did something she had never done before. Slowly, she removed the hat from her head. Then, she just dropped it to the floor, as if it had no value to her anymore.
"Whatever... It doesn't matter anymore... It happened... Everything... Everypony in mah family... is gone... They are all gone... Ah'm the last Apple alive..." Applejack spoke.
"That's also not true. What about Babs Seed? Have you forgotten about her?" Fluttershy wondered.
"By now, Ah'm pretty sure she's dead, too. This is just how things are... Everypony keeps dying..." the orange mare kept going.
"Now... come on, Applejack," Twilight spoke, starting to approach her friend again. "I know this is hard, but torturing yourself by looking at all this won't help you. Maybe you should just-"
Suddenly, Applejack turned around and swung a knife at Twilight. Even though she narrowly missed, Twilight jumped backwards in surprise and shock.
"Don't ya... tell me... what to do..." the orange mare responded, still aiming the blood covered blade at her friends with her front leg.
Rarity gasped in shock, but not just because of what just happened. Twilight as well gained an expression of horror as they now could see Applejack's face. Her eyes were bloodshot and sore from the crying. Her pupils had shrunk to tiny black beads. Just looking at her made them realize that she was stressed beyond comprehension, which was only confirmed by the fact that she was shaking heavily.
"Applejack... Please... You have to keep it together. You are letting Maledictum Insania get to you," Twilight tried to reason.
"Just shut up, Twi... It doesn't matter anymore. Nothing matters anymore. Ah don't matter anymore..." the orange mare replied, now crying even heavier.
It was now that the group realized where the fresh blood was coming from and why Applejack had that bloody knife. She had several deep cuts on her left front leg, bleeding heavily. She must have tried to cut her own arteries by holding the blade in her mouth.
"Applejack. Please. Drop that knife," Twilight requested, trying her best to speak calmly and keeping herself together, even though she was just about to fall into desperation and panic.
"No!" the orange mare shouted, now aiming the blade at her own neck while still crying.
"Shall I try to stop her, Twilight?" Crystal asked, slowly getting ready to jump.
"No, better not. We may just set her off right now," Twilight responded, her voice getting hoarse because she couldn't keep playing calm.
Another moment of silence passed. It was perfectly clear that Applejack was serious right now. She was just inches away from committing suicide. None of her friends could handle this situation or knew what to do. The only thing which was clear to them was that they somehow needed to prevent the worst from happening.
"Darling... Please... Don't do it," Rarity spoke with tears in her eyes as well.
"Why not...? What's the point? Ah am good for nothin'. Ah can't do anythin'," Applejack wondered with increasing desperation in her voice.
"We need you, Applejack... Don't do this to us..." Fluttershy tried to reason, as well slowly getting black tears in her eyes.
"See? It's always only about ya! What would ya need a useless cripple like me for? Ya'll are just lyin' to me! Ya don't even care what Ah'm goin' through! Just leave me alone. Let me die already..." Applejack shouted, bringing the blade closer to her throat.
"We are your friends, AJ! Of course we want you to live!" Twilight stated loudly and started crying heavily herself.
"And what about me? Ah don't want to anymore! But! Of course! Ya don't care the least bit about that! Ah had enough! Can't take this anymore! Ah just want to go where Mom, Dad, Applebloom, Granny, Big Mac and all the others are!" Applejack shouted back.
"Just drop the knife, darling! Please!" Rarity begged.
"Get lost already! Leave me alone! Why can't ya see that Ah had enough of this darn world and sufferin' so much? Ya just hate me anyway, so get lost!" Applejack shouted, the blade now touching the skin.
"Listen to yourself, Applejack! You are not making sense anymore! We care a lot about you and I promise, I will somehow find a way through all of this! But first, you need to let go of that knife! I beg you, Applejack! Just let go! Please!" Twilight shouted, not knowing what to do anymore.
Once again, silence filled the room. Then, Applejack began to hyperventilate and her whole body trembled heavily.
"No... NO... NO!... NO!" the orange mare shouted with all her strength.
Applejack's hoof pushed the knife against her throat and sliced it through with the full length of the blade. Within seconds, a vast amount of blood spilled over her orange belly and to the floor.
Twilight's eyes instantly turned white and she aimed an arcane beam at her friend in attempt to seal the wound again. But while Applejack floated in the air through the magic's influence, she kept on stabbing herself in the chest repeatedly. Crystal Blossom saw the signs and tried to prevent this with her own magic, but she couldn't remove the knife out of Applejack's grip fast enough.
Twilight quickly had to realize that she did not know enough about healing spells to treat the injuries. Applejack's blood rapidly washed over her body and splashed to the floor, to the point where she finally lost consciousness.
"Oh gosh no! By Celestia, no! Not Applejack! Please no!" Twilight shouted in panic while the tears kept running down her face.
"Hurry! We need to bring her to the local hospital!" Crystal shouted.
She tried to use a spell to make Applejack float on her back so she could carry her, but Twilight would not let go of her. Instead, she levitated Applejack on her own back, insisting to be the one carrying her.
Without having any time to argue, the group started running, Twilight constantly using her arcane magic in desperate attempt to stop the bleeding. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Capital Punishment | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 19: Capital Punishment
Wide open eyes. Mouths pressed shut. Lightly shaking. Tear trails washing down the cheeks. Both Twilight and Rarity sat like this in the waiting room of the Ponyville hospital for a felt eternity. The only ponies breaking the silence were the nurses, treating Rarity's cuts. But as soon as they were done, they joined the doctors in the emergency room to assist.
Nearly ten hours had passed and still, the group got no response from the doctors about Applejack's condition. Fluttershy as well couldn't stop staring at the door to the emergency room, even though her expression remained blank. Eventually, Crystal Blossom could convince the two unicorn mares to at least try getting over their trauma and use the wait to get some sleep. But just two hours later, Nurse Redheart entered the waiting room, causing the keepers of harmony to instantly jump up and stare at her in anticipation for news.
The long surgery had clearly drained her. Even though she was wearing a surgical mask, the group could see the exhaustion in her eyes. With a sigh, she removed the mask and started speaking.
"We managed to treat the wounds and stabilize her. But due to the extreme amount of blood she lost, she fell into a coma. Right now, machines and spells are all that keep her breathing and her heart beating. We still can't say if she will survive or not. It all depends on whether she will wake up in the next few days," Nurse Redheart explained.
Slowly, Rarity and Twilight sat down again, their gazes lowering to the floor and starting to cry.
"I'm sorry I can't bring you better news... You can see her if you want. We brought her to room 44," the nurse stated.
"You did everything you could. Thank you, nurse," Crystal responded, then turned her head over to Twilight.
The purple mare responded the glance and gave a short nod. Then, they all started walking. ---
With only few words, the keepers of harmony decided to stay in Applejack's hospital room for a while. They were all too tired and mentally exhausted to go anywhere, so they just sat down around her bed and began to wait again. They did not mind the beeping of the medical devices connecting to their friend, but it was still a very depressing sight to look at. Those stitches on her throat, chest and front leg. The bracelet she was wearing, connecting her to a monitor. The tube she had stuck in her mouth, which made her breathe. Even Twilight thought that this made Applejack seem more like a dead body in desperate attempt to be kept alive.
As the time passed, the keepers of harmony slowly fell asleep again. Like always, Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom stood awake, guarding the room and meditating in switching shifts. ---
It already was afternoon of the second day back in Ponyville when the group woke up. Again, they just kept sitting around Applejack's bed for hours. But the more time passed, the more they had to make a few realizations.
"Perhaps the BloodClaw Cult wanted exactly this to happen. They made us stop chasing after them with this," Fluttershy commented.
"They are everywhere...Even here in Ponyville. Two cultists tried to trap and kill me, which is why I have these cuts," Rarity added.
"I'm..." Twilight started, having trouble to get a hold of herself. "I'm just so sorry... I never meant for any of this to happen... I should have never asked any of you to follow me..."
"Darling. We wanted to come with you. And you just have to admit you would have never made it anywhere if we wouldn't have supported you," Rarity tried to explain.
"We all made the decision to go with you," Crystal stated. "Even though we experienced tragedy after tragedy throughout the journey, it was the right decision. Without us, the BloodClaw Cult would have never been uncovered. Without your investigation, Twilight, it would be too late for Equestria to save itself by now. It may not be over, yet. But it already can clearly be said that you saved the entire land from much, much worse."
"But was that all worth it? So many ponies died... Applejack's entire family is gone... And just look at her. There is a big chance she may not make it and will need to get reaped... Was this all really worth it?" Twilight asked.
"Think logically, Twilight. Would there have been any way to turn things out for the better? Would there have been any way to prevent everything from happening?" Crystal asked back.
"I... have no idea. It's just... Applejack thinks I'm to blame for all this..." the purple mare spoke.
"She said those words while under the influence of Maledictum Insania. You know precisely that she was not thinking at that moment. At the very beginning of this journey, I said that I believe in the abilities of all of you, keepers. Not only did you live up to my expectations, but you even surpassed them. Not once did I ever doubt you, Twilight. Not even now that all these horrible things happened. You and your friends. You truly are the ones keeping harmony alive in Equestria. It does not matter what will come next. I, and all the other reapers, we will keep believing in all of you and we will support you until the very end," Crystal explained, bowing down to the group.
For a moment, Twilight smiled back at Crystal. But then, she let her ears hanging again and her sadness resurfaced. Slowly, the purple mare stood up and walked over to the elder reaper mare, placing her right front hoof on her shoulder.
"You bow down to nopony other than your mistress," Twilight spoke, then suddenly hugged the light blue mare.
Crystal seemed surprised for a brief moment, but then embraced Twilight back. After that, the purple mare let go and turned around. From Crystal, to Fluttershy, to Rarity, she embraced all of them individually. Finally, she returned to the bed and held Applejack's front leg.
"I know, I'm not saying this often enough. But... honestly... Thank you. All of you. Thank you for always supporting me. Thank you for always being there. And yes, I mean you too, Crystal. Thank you so much for believing in me. I would be so lost without all of you," Twilight spoke with tears in her eyes.
Rarity smiled in response. Fluttershy and Crystal nodded shortly. After that, it became silent again in the hospital room. All eyes returned to the unconscious mare on the bed.
"Well... What do we do now? Can we really just sit here, waiting and hoping for Applejack to wake up again? The cult is right outside! They have Ponyville under their control," Rarity wondered.
Nearly ten seconds passed before Twilight turned around and gazed out of the window towards her home village.
"Give me a moment. I will think of something. I just... just need a moment more..." the purple mare requested.
Silence filled the room anew. Twilight sunk deeper and deeper into thoughts while Rarity kept on sitting next to Fluttershy and Crystal on the left side of the bed. Suddenly, the door opened and a doctor entered, carrying a syringe.
"Hello, everypony. I'm sorry, but you need to leave for a while. Your friend needs an injection and some check up," he requested.
The group nodded and started walking. But while the two unicorn mares headed out, something occurred to the reapers: Why was this doctor walking around with the syringe ready? Wasn't that pretty dangerous in case somepony stumbled into him? And why did they even need to leave the room for a check up in the first place? The nurses never said Applejack needed additional medication either. It was Fluttershy who stopped first and grabbed the doctor by his front leg.
"What is in the syringe?" she wanted to know.
"Just something that will help her heal up faster," the doctor responded.
"And why did you wait until now to give her this medication?" Crystal added.
Now, Twilight and Rarity turned back around, as well starting to find this suspicious.
"It needs a lot of complex medical knowledge to understand that. Just let me do my job, okay?" the doctor requested in a mildly frustrated tone.
This only caused the distrust to grow inside the mares. Twilight and Rarity slowly began to walk back over to Applejack. While doing so, they noticed that the doctor's eyes started jumping around nervously.
"Let me see the syringe," Crystal requested.
"What? No! I can't let you do that!" the doctor protested.
"As reapers, we have the authority to make these requests. Please hand over the syringe," Fluttershy requested anew.
The doctor stood still for a moment, then suddenly turned around and started running over to Applejack. But before he could reach her, Twilight used a spell to launch the doctor against a wall. Crystal instantly reacted and used an ice spell to form shackles around his front and hind legs. Finally, Fluttershy placed the dull side of her scythe's blade against his neck. As he looked into her eyes, he found himself so shocked, he let go of the syringe and allowed it to drop on the floor.
Now in control, Crystal stepped forth and picked the syringe back up, analyzing its content.
"It is a heartbeat slowing medication. Not very dangerous usually, but in Applejack's condition, it would have been lethal and impossible to track back. The nurses would have only assumed that she did not make it," she commented.
Twilight had disbelief written on her face for a moment. But very quickly, it became replaced by an expression of fury. She stepped in front of the stallion, violently turned his head aside and moved the fur behind his left ear.
"As I thought. The claw mark symbol. He is a cultist," she commented in anger. "You monsters never know when its enough, huh?"
Finally, the doctor snapped out of his shock. After he processed the words Twilight told to him, he started to grin and chuckle.
"You heretics don't deserve any better," the stallion replied.
"Oh just you wait until you get to prison," Rarity commented with a hate filled expression.
Suddenly, Twilight's glance lowered. Crystal was about to cast another spell to get the cultist off from the wall and wrap him into chains, ready for transportation. But she was interrupted by the purple mare, lifting a front hoof.
"No. He won't go to prison," she commanded.
"Huh? Why not, darling? Do you want to interrogate him?" Rarity wondered.
"Hah! You can try if you want, but I won't tell you anything!" the doctor stated in a mocking tone.
For a couple of seconds, Twilight just stood there, still pinning the stallion's head against the wall with her eyes focusing the ground. But then, she calmly let go of him, went back down to all four and started walking over to her saddlebag.
"No," was all she said in response.
Rarity was confused about what Twilight's intentions were. But Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom could see something. They saw her expression. The last time her eyes burned with such anger was when she found out that Despair had murdered Spike and devoured his soul.
Twilight used a spell to open her saddlebag. A black book without title came flying out of it. Since the reapers entrusted her the nameless book, she kept on scanning through it every once in a while. This time, she picked a specific chapter in the book and read through it swiftly.
"Twilight... what are you going to do?" Fluttershy wondered.
Seconds passed with no response. The cultist just hung there, laughing lowly at the insecurity of the group. Finally, Twilight closed and stored the book again.
"Crystal... you asked me how I could have turned things out to the better? Well. I tried to solve this battle against the cult with sense and moral. But this just won't get us anywhere. Due to my inability to seriously harm or even kill ponies, a lot of bad things happened. This even goes all the way back to Obsidian," the purple mare explained, her eyes burning with hatred. "I'm sorry. I learned my lesson. There is no reasoning with the cult. I won't make this mistake ever again."
"Haha! What now? Do you want to kill me? You? A stupid, heretical follower of the alicorns? Face it. You don't have the stomach for that," the cultist started mocking.
Now, Twilight began approaching the stallion with a dead serious expression.
"Twilight! Darling! You are not seriously going to kill him...Are you?" Rarity spoke with a worried expression.
The closer she came, the more her horn started to glow. But before she could do anything, Crystal stepped in front of her.
"You do not have to overthrow your moral perspectives, Twilight. We have gotten this far trying to keep casualties at a minimum. Do not let your emotions turn you into a killer now," she spoke.
"This has nothing to do with moral or emotions, Crystal. The opposite actually. If this is what needs to be done to protect my friends, then so be it. I won't hesitate anymore. I won't let anything like this happen to any of you ever again," the purple mare spoke with determination.
"Twilight... Even though I think Mistress Celestia would understand... If you go this path once, there is no turning back. For us reapers, it is natural to kill. This is what we are made for. But its not natural for ponies. If you kill him, it will haunt you for the rest of your life," Fluttershy warned.
"Desperate times call for desperate measures. One thing Obsidian tried to teach me was that all who fight the demons and insanity have to make sacrifices at some point. I don't care if I will have nightmares for the rest of my life. Maybe what you say is right and I won't regret it now, but in future. Still, this is a sacrifice I am willing to take. For everypony out there. It just has to stop, as fast as possible," Twilight replied.
"Twilight..." Rarity commented in a speechless tone, covering her mouth with her front legs.
Fluttershy and Crystal exchanged a quick glance, then looked back at the stallion. He still kept on grinning with a cocky expression, not believing the group would actually go this far. After all, they were the keepers of harmony. The most naive ponies in the entire land. Why would they, of all, be willing to kill?
"Are you sure you want to go this far?" Crystal questioned as she turned back to Twilight.
The purple mare nodded in response, the determination and fury in her eyes not getting any less intense. Ultimately, Crystal and Fluttershy stepped aside.
"It is as I said. No matter what comes next, I will keep believing in you and supporting you until the very end," the light blue mare commented.
Twilight just continued walking and stopped right in front of the stallion. Now, he slowly began to doubt his preconceptions and looked around nervously again.
A purple aura began to form around Twilight's horn. Her eyes did not move away from the stallion for a single moment while she created a magical sword, letting it float next to her.
As the tension built up more and more, Rarity's eyes kept on jumping between Twilight, the stallion, the sword and the reapers. She still could not believe what was about to happen and that Fluttershy and Crystal actually agreed with it. But she also thought it would be wrong of her to stop Twilight. After all, she was the leader of the group. If she decided this was the right thing to do, there had to be something true about it. Finally, Rarity just turned around, pressed her eyes shut and covered her ears.
Twilight trembled in tension. The heavy internal struggle could be seen all over her body. She stood there for a while, showing her teeth and pressing them together while she tried to convince herself that this in front of her was not a pony, but a monster. A monster that needed to be slain for the safety of all her friends and of Equestria. Finally, she took a deep breath.
"This is for Applejack!" the purple mare shouted.
The blade launched at the stallion. Just the split of a second later, it was stuck to the hilt in his chest. An expression of shock was written in his face, which also shocked Twilight for a moment. Just now, she realized what she had done.
Not even a second after she injured the cultist, Twilight gained the first thoughts of regret. She watched the stallion with wide open eyes and mouth.
The seconds passed and the blood started running down his chest. Then, his expression slowly shifted again. His eyes became bloodshot and a grin grew on his face.
"I die... for the demon queen..." he spoke.
Suddenly, he closed his eyes and his entire body became limp. The shock on Twilight's face slowly slipped away as well and became neutral. Still avoiding to look at the cultist, Rarity stood up and walked over to Twilight.
"Darling..." she spoke meekly, hugging the purple mare.
Twilight did not respond in any way. She just kept on staring at the hanging body. This was her doing. She killed him. After a while, the expression of determination returned to her face.
"He showed his true colors as he died. His last thoughts were about Nightmare Moon. I didn't kill a pony. I killed a monster. There is nothing I need to regret. All of these beasts are nothing but a threat to us. They are who try to destroy Equestria and drown it in suffering. All of them are just as bad as the demons," Twilight spoke in justification of her doing.
This caused Rarity to lift her head again and stare at Twilight, not sure what she should be thinking anymore.
"Are you really sure? Do you really think this is what needs to be done?" she asked in worry.
"A peaceful solution is not possible. We already aim to kill Black Widow, so what difference does it make? If we can't fight them above their level, they leave us no alternative. These cultists need to be erased and if it's necessary, I will do it all by myself, just so nopony else has to become a murderer. I'm not asking you to do the same, Rarity. Heck, I would even prefer it if you wouldn't. But there is no other solution anymore. We have to fight our way straight to the heart of the cult, even if it means to cover my hooves in blood," the purple mare assured.
Rarity just stared at Twilight with a slightly open mouth. She couldn't respond to this. Instead, Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom walked over to the body and rammed their scythes in it to prevent the cultist from coming back.
"Even though we may all be of split opinions right now, I can tell you regained your focus and determination, Twilight," Crystal started. "So what is your plan? What shall we do next?"
"There is nothing we can do for Applejack right now. Let us use this time and drive the cult out of Ponyville by any means necessary. I might have an idea where their church is, but if I'm wrong, we can't hesitate to find it. Also, we need to make sure that not another cultist sneaks up on Applejack. I want one of you to stay here and guard her. Preferably, I would like this one to be you, Rarity," the purple mare spoke.
"You want to spare me from having to kill, too?" Rarity asked.
"Yes. This is why I want you to stay and protect Applejack," Twilight replied.
"Well... I trust you make the right decisions, Twilight. Just like Crystal and Fluttershy, I will trust and support you until the end. Alright. I will stay... Good luck, Twilight," the fashion diva responded.
"Thank you... Crystal, Fluttershy. Let's go. We need to tell somepony about what happened in here first," the purple mare commanded.
The reaper mares nodded in response and followed Twilight out of the hospital room. Rarity just walked back over to Applejack's bed, sat down and held her hoof.
"I wonder what you would think about all this..." she commented in worry. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Payback | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 20: Payback
Just a few minutes later, Twilight ran out of the Ponyville hospital, closely followed by Crystal Blossom and Fluttershy. On the outside, she only showed determination and indeed, she was in a killing mode. But on the inside, she was still struggling. After all, Twilight was not a reaper. She was not cold hearted and emotionless. She knew what she had just done was against pony nature and she had just put herself on the same level as the cultists. The only difference now was her motivation.
Still, there was no way to undo this anymore. She had killed a pony and had to live with that knowledge. All she could do now was to repress her self-hate for stepping down to the cultists' methods and focus on the emotions that fuelled her: Anger, sadness, protective instincts for her friends and a sense of justice. Even though she still didn't want to kill, she knew she would have to do it more than once again. This was just what a civil war was like.
"So where are we heading, Twilight?" Crystal wondered.
"I have a pretty good idea where the BloodClaw church might be at. Let's go back to Ponyville first," the purple mare responded and ran ahead. ---
A few years ago, Sugarcube Corner had been closed down due to a horrible crime. Although the public never learned the truth, the sweets shop remained closed for a long time. But just one and a half years ago, two couples found themselves fascinated by the design of the building and could not resist the urge to reopen it, even going so far as to make a compromise and share it. Although the new owners never were as successful as the Cakes had been, the ponies of Ponyville finally had their favorite bakery and meeting point back.
That day again, things seemed to be going the usual way. The four ponies were going through their daily routine of checking ingredient stocks, sales and recipes. They were already cleaning up and about to close when a purple mare came walking through the front door, followed by two reapers. Her expression was so serious and her eyes burning so much, it bordered on being scary.
"Good afternoon! Welcome to Sugarcube Corner! How may I-" the mare behind the counter started.
"Royal investigation. We need to examine your kitchen," the purple mare spoke.
Without waiting for a response, she stepped behind the counter and aimed for the kitchen, directly followed by the the two reapers. Instantly, all four owners rushed over to stop them.
"W-wait a minute! You can't just walk in here like that! This is staff only area!" one of the stallions protested.
"Maledictum Insania," the purple mare suddenly spoke, completely out of context. "Just as I thought."
While the serious expression on her face remained, the four owners were completely baffled. Just now, they realized whom they were dealing with. All of them tried to turn around and grab some sort of weapon, but were pushed to the ground hard by a powerful gravity spell. Unable to move, they felt how a front hoof moved the fur behind their ears.
"They are all cultists," the light blue reaper mare stated.
"Let's get rid of these monsters," the purple mare ordered coldly.
After that, all the four ponies could feel was a short sharp pain in their backs. But seconds later, everything turned black for them and their souls left their bodies.
"I wonder if they already were cultists when they purchased Sugarcube Corner," Fluttershy spoke.
"Let's find out. If I remember correctly, the door should be about... here," Twilight responded, eyeing up a wall next to the fridge.
Since the door was hidden behind panels which could only be removed if exactly known how to, Twilight decided to go for the blunt way. Using an arcane bolt, she blasted off the panels, revealing a metal door. She tried to open it, but had to realize that it was locked. It seemed like the new owners had known about this secret, since they had repaired the lock. So, the purple mare used another powerful arcane bolt to destroy the door.
After a short walk downstairs into the dark, Twilight faced the second metal door. This one, too, had been repaired and needed a powerful spell to be broken open. After Twilight finished her work and opened it, she instantly had to cover her nose.
"Ugh... Smells just as bad as the first time I was here," she commented.
The group entered and looked around. Several things had changed to how Twilight remembered this torture chamber. The skulls on the walls were gone. Prayers and poems about Nightmare Moon and the demons were smeared on the walls with blood instead. The macabre party decor had been removed as well and replaced with hoof-drawn pictures of demons, depicted in a sacred manner. Even the torture rack was moved to the side to make space for a small altar. But despite all these changes, it was not enough to satisfy.
"They clearly used this room in its intended way and to worship demons, but this is far too small to be used as a church," Crystal commented.
"Yes. You are right. Shoot. I was so sure this would be it. But now that I think about it... Even though this place is not known to the public, the authorities knew of its existence. It may be hidden very well, but it still is too obvious for the cult's standard," Twilight replied in mild frustration.
"So this is where it happened... This is where Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie died..." Fluttershy spoke.
"This place holds more bad memories than necessary. Well, we busted a cultist hideout, but this won't be enough. Let's get out of here. I don't want to stay around for any longer than really needed," Twilight replied.
On their way back up, Twilight sealed the metal doors by magic. This was anticlimactic. She really was sure the cult would be hiding where nopony would expect it. But perhaps if she could figure that out, it was not unexpected enough. Where else could they be meeting up? The purple mare had been living in Ponyville for years and knew pretty much every place inside out. What could be even more hidden than this torture room? Would they have their church in Everfree Forest? No, that would be too dangerous to reach and too far away. Which place was even less known than Pinkamena's playroom?
Suddenly, an idea shot through Twilight's head and she picked up pace again. After just a few seconds, it became clear where they were heading to.
"Sweet Apple Acres? Why do you think the church is there?" Fluttershy wondered.
"Remember when we found out Applebloom turned into Pinkamena's trainee? She had her own torture room and it was so well hidden, only the fewest knew about it. Not even the authorities ever found it. I mean, if anypony knew Big Macintosh had died, it would have been reported and his body would have been carried away. Yet, the orchard was entirely deserted when we came there, as if all the workers had suddenly left. Now that I put everything together, I think the cultists originally immigrated to Ponyville as workers for the apple orchard. They must have been waiting for just the right situation to take over Ponyville and as the first cultist failed on her attempt to assassinate me, causing us to leave Ponyville, they got exactly that," the purple mare explained.
"Very well analyzed, Twilight," Crystal commented. "Let us just hope this assumption turns out to be correct. If we do not find this church soon, it will move away."
This caused Twilight to run even faster. To save as much time as possible, she even teleported her friends and herself several times. Finally, they landed right in front of the former Cutie Mark Crusader Clubhouse. Just moments after they landed, the group saw two stallions coming out of the hidden basement, carrying a blood stained altar. It seemed like they already were about to start moving the church. The second they needed to realize what was going on was already too much hesitation. Twilight used another gravity spell to pin them to the ground.
"Heretics! They are here!" one of the stallions shouted.
Instantly, ten ponies wearing the robes of the BloodClaw Cult came rushing from a door beneath the tree, drawing their daggers. While Crystal and Fluttershy took care of those, Twilight towered over the two cultists she had immobilized. Their faces were filled with expressions of fury because she dared to attack their holy grounds. But Twilight had just the same expression on her face. She once again used her magic to form a magical sword and let it hover over the first cultist.
Twilight hesitated for a moment. She knew she had to do this, but for a pony trying to be a pacifist, it just wasn't easy to take a life. Ultimately, she pressed her eyes shut and rammed the blade through the cultist's chest, withdrawing it moments later.
By the time she found herself ready to kill the other one, she felt the flow of magic change nearby. A unicorn behind her was casting a fire spell and aiming it at her. Twilight quickly turned around, caught the fireball in flight and changed it into a sharp dart made of lava. Then, she launched the spell back at the aggressor with such speed, it flew right through the cultist and even killed the one behind her.
Being distracted for just a moment was enough for the cultist to escape Twilight's gravity spell and jumped in the air with the dagger in his mouth, trying to pounce the purple mare. But, again, Twilight was faster and smarter. She still had the magical blade flying next to her, so she just quickly turned over again and swung the sword, decapitating the cultist.
As an act of self-defence, it was easier for Twilight to kill. It just felt more justified, more righteous than murdering an immobile and defenceless pony. Her focus turned back towards her two friends and she realized that she really was a lot slower than them. In the time she needed to kill four cultists, Fluttershy and Crystal had killed twenty. At least, this sight confirmed that Twilight was right. This truly was the church.
The purple mare just didn't know what to feel anymore. She was just so torn between her emotions, the knowledge what the cult had done to her friends and the heat of the battle that she went into frenzy. Twilight built up an arcane shield around her and charged right through the door down into the hidden basement.
Applebloom's playroom had been heavily redesigned. The cultists had expanded it a lot and had replaced the wooden floor and walls with cobblestone. There even was a separate room, which seemed to be the sanctuary, as demons were coming out of it. Macabre decor and demonic symbols were filling the hall. There were more cultists around here than she could count in the swift moment she had to analyze. But to her huge disappointment and shock, some of the faces she saw were familiar to her. Several of the present cultists were villagers she knew personally.
Twilight stopped in the middle of the hall, getting surrounded by cultists. Time seemed to flow in slow motion again. As she briefly looked around, she spotted a cultist running over to her, wielding a reaper scythe. This thing might actually be able to break through her shield. She would need to act soon.
While her eyes rapidly wandered around, spotting one familiar pony after the other, her fury intensified enormously. Just how could they dare to do all this? First, they set up their church right at Sweet Apple Acres. Then, they eliminated Applejack's family members one by one, just to make her suffer. Finally, they waited to kill her brother until just the right moment so Applejack would stumble across his dead body to make her break down entirely. All this was done by them with zero feeling of guilt or regret.
Tears of rage filled Twilight's white eyes. She had had enough. 'Forget about if this is wrong or not,' she thought by herself. 'They just need to pay. They have to pay the price for the sick things they did. It doesn't matter how you will feel afterwards. Just do it!'
"For the Apple family!" Twilight shouted with all her strength.
Along with her rage, she unleashed an immense arcane explosion, nearly causing the whole church to collapse. After that, it suddenly became silent around her.
Twilight felt dizzy. She just used up most of her strength without even exactly knowing what she did. Several seconds passed while the purple mare tried to come back to her senses. The first thing she realized was that a demon was charging over to her.
The purple mare took a leap to the side to dodge the attack, but ended up stepping on something slippery and fell. She quickly looked up again, getting ready to defend herself. But just as the demon was about to attack, it suddenly seemed to have stopped moving entirely, as if it had been solidified. Just a split second later, Fluttershy pounced the demon, dissolved into a black cloud and formed back together. She must have used the Stare to paralyze the demon.
"Are you okay, Twilight? That was a devastating explosion," the yellow mare asked, helping her friend back on her legs.
Twilight nodded shortly and looked around. Her mouth slowly fell open and she went wide eyed as she realized what her rage had caused. The thing she had tripped on was a mushy piece of flesh. All the cultists were blown to pieces. She shredded them all to the point that it was hardly even possible to make out that they used to be ponies anymore.
The purple mare sat on the floor for a moment, just staring around absent-mindedly. While Fluttershy guarded her, Crystal took care of the remaining demons with a skillful combination of ice spells, dark magic and disabling moves. Then, it was finally over. The last cultist got reaped. The BloodClaw church in Ponyville had been eliminated.
"Apprentice. Take care of Twilight. I will scan the sanctuary for skin-walkers," the elder reaper mare ordered.
Fluttershy nodded shortly. Then, Crystal opened the door and disappeared behind it.
Twilight still just sat there, her mind blown because of her own brutality. She knew she was capable of a lot, but she would have never figured to be able to do something like that. Her mind jumped back to Obsidian's last day. If only she would have fulfilled his request back then. If only she would have been able to kill him. All the suffering of her friends could have been avoided. Now that Twilight saw that she indeed was very much capable of killing, she felt like a hypocrite.
"Um. Twilight. You are bleeding," Fluttershy stated.
Now that she mentioned it, the purple mare realized a warm sensation running down on her face. After touching her nose and eyeing up her front hoof, she came to understand that she had just come very close to her limits. Using so much arcane energy at once caused her some small internal bleeding. She would need to take her medication very soon, or it would get worse very quickly.
"Stupid organ damage..." she commented. "Can you help me out a bit, Fluttershy?"
"Of course," the yellow mare responded, stepping next to Twilight, helping her get back on her legs and supported her while walking.
"I... I really overdid it here, didn't I?" the purple mare wanted to know.
"Well, you killed almost every cultist inside with one single attack. While this was pretty efficient, you clearly exhausted yourself too much," Fluttershy responded.
"I don't mean that... I let my emotions get the better of me. I was just... so angry... I lost control," Twilight corrected.
"You are not a reaper, Twilight. I can't judge you like one of us and I really don't want to. We planned to kill them all anyway, so that's that. But if you are worried you might lose yourself in your emotions, perhaps you should try meditating as well. It helped me out a lot, as you remember," Fluttershy suggested.
"I'll definitely try to find a way to balance myself better. Now that I went this far, I suppose I'm getting closer to Maledictum Insania again, so I should be careful. Anyway, I saw a cultist using a reaper scythe. Perhaps Derpy is still here. Let's go find her," the purple mare spoke.
With a nod, Fluttershy adjusted her grip on Twilight and helped her walk around slowly. Although the room was a lot bigger now, it still did not take long to get to the other side. They both soon spotted a large curtain in a corner. Several now broken floodlights were aimed at it, as if it was a small stage. After Twilight moved the curtain by magic, she revealed Applebloom's torture rack. Derpy was still tied on it with a ball gag in her mouth, several bad cuts and heavily bloodstained. Her glass eye was missing as well.
After the curtain moved, Derpy twitched a bit, expecting to see a cultist about to torture her some more. But she quickly seemed relieved after she realized Fluttershy and Twilight Sparkle were in front of her. Mumbling with the gag in her mouth, she shifted around on the rack, seemingly asking to be freed. Twilight quickly opened the shackles by magic, letting Derpy drop to the floor and remove the strap around her head.
"Gosh. Finally I can move and speak again. That was almost more annoying than being cut open every few hours. Now, where did they put my glass eye?" Derpy spoke, looking around in search.
"Are you okay? You are still bleeding," Twilight wondered.
"Well, I haven't been able to eat for weeks and then these cultists got me. But I'll be able to fix that right away as it looks like. Good job on the cultists! They are all conveniently reduced to bite-size pieces!" the gray mare replied, then picked up a piece of flesh and tossed it in her mouth.
"Yeah... I'm not exactly proud of this," Twilight commented.
"Oh well," Derpy mumbled with a full mouth, then swallowed and glanced over to Fluttershy. "Gosh, I just need to look at you and can already tell that you haven't been eating anything for quite a while. You should watch your physical condition more closely. Come on! Join in on the free feast! We don't get such an opportunity every day!"
After a short hesitation, Fluttershy as well lifted up a piece of flesh, put it in her mouth and started chewing. At times like these, Twilight felt a bit inconvenient knowing that some of her close friends are actually meat-eaters. But after all she had witnessed and done herself, she slowly started getting used to these things.
"So, Twilight. What caused you to go home and save my sorry rump?" Derpy asked casually, picking up another piece of meat and eating it.
"That's a bit of a longer story to explain. I'll tell you all about it when we got more-" the purple mare started.
Suddenly, Crystal Blossom was launched out of the sanctuary and hit a wall hard. The group instantly turned around, getting ready to fight. Derpy even resummoned her scythe and jumped next to Fluttershy, who had hers ready as well.
Despair came jumping out of the sanctuary, turned her mane and tail into razor-sharp saws and sliced right past their defences. She grabbed both reapers with the large mouths in her front legs and crushed them to the ground.
Twilight had disbelief written on her face. Why was she here?! Just as she thought that, the demoness looked over to her and gave Twilight a vicious grin. This already caused the purple mare to try and regain her arcane aura. But the demoness just continued running out of the church. By now, Crystal got back on her legs and started chasing after her.
"I will do whatever I can to stop or slow her! You have to get to Canterlot before she does!" the elder reaper mare shouted as she ran past Twilight.
Why Despair was here of all places when she had the leader of the BloodClaw Cult to protect was a complete mystery. But Crystal Blossom was right. If the Guillotine of Hope was here, it meant that Black Widow was unguarded right now. If they were fast enough, they would be able to catch the BloodClaw Cult vulnerable.
Twilight turned around and ran outside, soon followed by the other two reapers. They had to get back to Rarity as quickly as possible. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | A Single Chime | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 21: A Single Chime
Again, they were running. Away from one place, heading to the next. Twilight's eyes were wide open, constantly thinking about how little time there was to act. She didn't even look around and just aimed straight for the Ponyville hospital. Fluttershy was just the same. It seemed like only Derpy was actually questioning what just happened.
"Hey. Twilight. That demon... It looked awfully familiar, didn't it?" the gray mare wondered.
"Yes. We know, Derpy. And you are right. It's really her. Despair is back," Twilight replied, her focus still fixated on the road ahead.
"But... How can she be back?! I saw her getting consumed by Obsidian! There is no way she could have survived that!" Derpy asked in disbelief.
"It has something to do with the bond I have with her. I don't really know myself. But apparently, as long as I live, consuming her won't be enough to stop her," the purple mare explained.
"Then what was all this about? Why was she even here? She clearly was strong and skilled enough to catch all of us off-guard. Why didn't she use that moment?" Derpy questioned.
At first, Twilight tried to come up with a swift explanation so she wouldn't have to think about that anymore. But the more she thought, the more her pace reduced, until she finally stopped fully. Then, she lowered her head and placed a front hoof on her face.
"To make us chase after her. I'm so stupid. She is trying to keep us in stress and tension so we stop thinking and just act blindly. Maybe there is an ambush just outside of Ponyville, waiting for us to rush right into. Thanks for snapping me out of it, Derpy. I'm starting to lose myself in this mind game," Twilight answered.
"My pleasure," the gray mare responded with a grin.
"But what about Crystal Blossom?" Fluttershy started. "What about Canterlot? It still is true that Black Widow is unguarded right now. Should we just let Despair get back to her?"
"I don't know. But the worst thing we can do is to act just like Despair wants us to act. I think Crystal can handle herself for a while, but we really need to be careful about our next actions. Applejack is still unconscious and just leaving her behind unguarded is a really bad idea. We can't be certain that we got all cultists around here. Let's just get back to Rarity and tell her what we found out," Twilight suggested.
"Sounds good to me. I still need to recover anyway," Derpy agreed. ---
When the group returned, they found Winona lying at the bottom end of Applejack's bed. It seemed like the doctors and nurses made an exception to let her in, since she had no other place to go to. After a small conversation, they all agreed to disregard chasing after Despair or Black Widow for a while and guard Applejack instead. They just couldn't leave her behind like this, not knowing if she would make it or not. What if she woke up while they were gone? She would feel left behind, abandoned by her closest friends. This would be the final blow and in contrast to before, nopony would be there to stop her from committing suicide this time.
It didn't take long for the mood of depression and paralyzation to return in the hospital room. Hours of silence passed, since none of them had any idea what to talk about. The unconscious orange mare and the beeping of the devices connected to her were a constant reminder of her critical situation, only causing further depression and silence in the room.
The day passed by and all that happened was that Derpy was given a new glass eye. Another day followed, just as eventless as the former. Nothing changed about Applejack's condition. With every hour that came and went, it became more and more unlikely she would survive. Barely ever had Twilight and Rarity felt so helpless before. There was nothing they could do but sit idly, yet they precisely knew they had to hurry. Not only did Applejack's chances dwindle with each day passing by, but also Equestria's.
"What are we going to do, darling? How much longer should we wait? There is a war raging outside and we might be the only ones capable of ending it before it is too late," Rarity wondered.
Twilight sighed and hung her head. She had to make a decision even much harder than overthrowing her peaceful nature.
"The time is almost over... Let's give it two more days. If she hasn't woken up by then, it is too late to save her anyway..." she spoke in a depressed tone.
"Man... this is tough stuff... I'm so sorry for all of you. Having to let go of a dear friend... I know how this feels," Derpy commented.
Fluttershy was sitting on the floor, caressing Winona. But as the gray mare finished speaking, she rose her head and glanced over to her.
"You have been through this before yourself?" she wondered.
"Yeah... It's kinda how it all started for me. The whole reaper thing," Derpy responded, lowering her glance with a neutral expression.
"Um... you know... My mentor suggested that I should ask you how you became a reaper and right now, we have nothing to talk about anyway. So... Would you maybe tell me your story... If you don't mind?" Fluttershy requested carefully.
This caused Derpy to lift her glance again and smile widely.
"Hehe. Getting all insecure suddenly, Fluttershy? Don't you worry. I'm long over this. Well, sure! I can tell you my story!" she responded happily, then looked over to Twilight and Rarity. "What about you two? Do you want to hear it, too?"
"Sure. I badly need something to get my mind off right now," Twilight agreed.
"Go ahead! We are listening!" Rarity stated with a small gesture.
"Alright!" Derpy spoke, then sat down to the ground, placing her right front hoof on her chin and gaining a thoughtful expression. "Hmm... Where to start... Ah, I guess I'll just go from the beginning. You see, I was actually born in Hoofington, working at the local magical library. Back then, I had a different name. My actual name is Ditzy Doo. Derpy Hooves is a nickname I was given for my clumsy acting, but it turned into the only one ponies remembered of me over the years. Anyway, out of boredom, I sometimes read through some books that caught my eye. That's also how I discovered rune magic and got my cutie mark later.
"Well. One day, a young stallion walked up in the library and asked for some strange books... Don't really remember what they were about. So, he kept showing up from time to time and since we often ended up talking a lot more than we should in a library, we soon became friends. He said he was a traveler and could tell me a lot about the many different places in Equestria. But he always was a bit secretive when it came to his job.
"That was until one night when I was delivering a few books to another library. Two guys were threatening me with knives on the train. Then suddenly, my friend showed up and just sliced them in half with a scythe. You can imagine how shocked I was. Well, that's when I found out that he was a reaper apprentice.
"For a couple of weeks, we just stopped talking completely afterwards. I just didn't want to deal with a pony who kills other ponies for a living. It nearly broke our friendship. But in the end, I came around and we became even much closer friends than before.
"Well, to skip the boring stuff, a few years passed and one day, he came too late for a picnic. When he finally showed up, he looked really scared. He told me Celestia ordered him to a very dangerous mission and that there would be a chance he would not survive it.
"Of course, I instantly offered my help and promised I would do everything I could. Well... next thing, he made me promise something that changed my life forever. In case we would get trapped and only one of us could get out alive, I would have to perform the Tradition with him so the demons wouldn't get their claws on him. That was his worst nightmare: Getting captured by the demons and tortured into complete insanity.
"So... yeah... You can guess what happened next. Like he predicted, we ended up being cornered. He took a few pretty bad hits for me and couldn't make it out on his own. He reminded me of the promise I made and... yeah... As you can see, I kept it. After all we had been through, I just couldn't let it end for him like this. I owed him this favor."
"Wow..." Twilight started. "That all sounds so familiar... Obsidian asked me for something very similar back then... Just... I couldn't do it..."
"Hey, don't blame yourself, Twilight. Nopony is blaming you for that. I know, I'm not exactly the oldest and wisest reaper... but I also learned a few lessons in the last seventy years: This world isn't just clearly right or wrong, good or evil, black or white. Some things are just like my coat color. Gray. And things like the Tradition are just the same. Some ponies do it, some ponies don't. Its a gray decision, so don't be too hard on yourself," Derpy explained.
"Alright... Thank you," Twilight replied with a small sigh.
"Anyways, I think you are one great friend, Derpy," Rarity started. "By far not everypony would go this far for friendship."
"Hehe. Well, I do what I can, right?" the gray mare stated.
The only one who didn't give a comment was Fluttershy. Derpy's story had quite an impact on her. It was so similar to hers. She, too, decided to perform the Tradition for nearly the same exact reasons.
"Um... how long did it take you?" the yellow mare suddenly asked.
"What, Fluttershy?" Derpy asked back.
"Getting over your loss... How long did it take you?" Fluttershy repeated.
"Oh... Well, a while. Turning into a reaper doesn't make you cold-hearted, you know. It helped me handling my emotions, but I still had some and keep them even now. I know, there is a huge difference between losing a good friend and a lover, as in your case-" Derpy started.
"Obsidian wasn't just 'a lover'. I wanted to start a family with him... I wanted to grow old with him..." Fluttershy tossed in swiftly.
"Eh... bad wording, sorry. What I want to say is: Grief is part of the process and normal. It is a step on the way, but not something you should let yourself get stuck on. You will need to let go, eventually," the gray mare continued.
"I don't want to. No... I can't. I'm doing all this reaper stuff only for him. How am I supposed to go on if I let go of the memories I made with him?" Fluttershy wondered.
"I'm not talking about the memories! Heck no, you don't let go of them! It's important to remember your past. But it's also important to remember to look forward. When you get to the point where you have lived through a few decades, you will come to realize that this world is constantly changing. Friends grow old and die, new foals are born, cities grow and ponies move. Everything keeps going, no matter what. And so should we, the reapers. We need to keep going along with the world. Because life is motion. Because life and death always go hoof in hoof. And because even messengers of death need to walk along with life," Derpy finished.
"Now listen to that! So much for you and being silly! Those are some impressive words of wisdom!" Twilight commented.
"Eh, really?" Derpy wondered, scratching the back of her head and grinning awkwardly.
"That was gorgeous, darling! I really could see your many years of experience now!" Rarity agreed.
"Well, I guess seventy years is quite some time," the gray mare responded, then turned back to Fluttershy. "But you do get what I want to say, right?"
"I... guess..." the yellow mare replied, her glance returning to Winona and continuing to pet her.
The smiles suddenly vanished from her friends' faces again. She had become so strong. She had grown so much. Yet, this was still so very difficult for her.
Rarity and Twilight stepped over to Fluttershy and embraced her. She barely reacted to this, still staring at the family dog, sunken in thoughts. After a few minutes, she stopped petting her and ended the silence.
"Would you... mind if I go outside? Just a little bit..." the yellow mare requested.
"Sure, if you need a moment by yourself. Just be careful out there," Twilight agreed.
"Okay... Thank you..." Fluttershy replied, slowly getting on her legs and leaving the room. ---
At first, she just walked up and down the corridor outside of Applejack's room. But then, her path took a different route. She left the hospital and walked back to Ponyville. Already, the atmosphere in this village seemed lighter than it had been before. Ponies actually were walking on the roads again, now that the word of the church's fall had spread. Wherever she went, Fluttershy was greeted by familiar faces, thanking her for freeing them of the cultists. If only everything would be so easy to overcome.
Not much later, she arrived at the graveyard and aimed straight for Obsidian's grave. Fluttershy just stood there for minutes, staring at the grave. They made it sound so simple, so easy. Just let go is what everypony recommends her. Just get over it. But how can you get over such a loss? This was what nopony had explained to her, or at least in a way that she could use it.
Fluttershy had lost the most important pony in her life. As he died, so did her future. Now, all that was left for Fluttershy was walking the path Derpy had just described. A path through the dark, watching as the world around her changed and she was left behind. Even if they defeated the BloodClaw Cult... what would that change to her? Derpy was right. The years would come and go. Her friends would grow old and die one day and then, she would be all alone, stuck on this path of death she had put herself on. It would not end before she murdered the last pony in her book of death or a demon would eventually be too strong for her and devour her soul.
Fluttershy had never been a strong pony. She would have stood weak and helpless, limited in her options for the rest of her life if it hadn't been for Obsidian. Although his soul was pitch black, he became her beacon of hope and strength. He enabled her of doing so much she thought impossible to her. He opened up a whole new world to her. In the end, it all was only to be reduced back on one track she had to go for the rest of her life.
Her glance lowered again. Her head as well began to hang low. Carefully, she placed her right front leg atop the grave. Like this, she stood there for minutes.
"I miss you so much..." she whispered eventually.
It was afternoon, but nopony was around. The few ones who dared to leave their homes all wandered around in the town center. Fluttershy was as her destiny demanded it from her: Alone, surrounded by nothing but death.
Suddenly, a sound filled the air, catching Fluttershy's attention and causing her to look up again. The miniature copy of the Seven Sounds Bell on Obsidian's tombstone had just rung. It was enchanted in just the same way as the original was. The melodies it played were supposed to be symbolic. But this was no melody. It was just one tone. A soft and bright one.
Fluttershy stared at the bell, wondering if it would continue to play. Even after minutes passed by, it didn't. Perhaps it was just the wind which caused it to ring. But there was no breeze.
Finally, she heard hoof clattering behind her. It was Rarity. She was smiling widely, yet crying at the same time as she ran towards the yellow mare.
"Fluttershy! She woke up! Applejack finally woke up!" the fashion diva shouted.
Fluttershy instantly turned around. She was about to start running back to the hospital, but hesitated. Once more, her glance jumped back to the grave and the bell, wondering if this was the meaning of that chime or if it was hinting on something else. Then, she started running back with Rarity. ---
As the door opened, the first thing Fluttershy saw was Twilight leaning her head on Applejack's shoulder with tears in her eyes. Winona jumped around and chased her wildly wagging tail in circles. Derpy just stood there, smiling warmly. Applejack hardly could keep her eyes open. She was very weak, but awake.
Rarity instantly ran ahead, sitting down next to the bed and holding Applejack's front leg while crying loudly.
"Oh, Applejack. I was so afraid we might lose you. I'm so sorry for arguing with you so much. I... I just wanted to let you know," she spoke.
"Wow... Hey there, Sugarcube. That's alright... Ah really had it comin' sometimes," Applejack replied weakly.
Now, Fluttershy started to approach her as well, causing the orange mare to look up.
"Howdy, partner," Applejack spoke.
"How are you?" the yellow mare wondered.
"Could be doin' better, Ah reckon," the orange mare answered.
"At least you are alive. I'm so glad you are awake again," Twilight commented.
"Yeah... That... I'm... I'm mighty sorry, Twilight. Ah guess Ah just snapped right there," Applejack apologized.
"It's all okay, Applejack. I'm just so happy you are still alive," the purple mare replied, gently holding her friend.
A few minutes passed while Applejack struggled with her sleepiness and weakness. She still didn't have much of an expression on her face and just looked very tired. Then, her head turned over to Twilight again.
"So what's the plan? Are we gonna do somethin' about the cultists here?" she wondered.
"There is no need to worry about them anymore. We took care of them. The BloodClaw church here in Ponyville is history now," Twilight responded.
"Really? How did ya do that?" the orange mare wanted to know.
"Well... You see... I... I kind of..." Twilight stuttered, not sure how much she should tell.
"She helped Crystal and me find the church," Fluttershy started swiftly. "They held Derpy captive in there. After we freed her, we were able to reap the whole church. We could even identify and take out the cultist who is responsible for killing your brother."
"So ya avenged Big Mac for me..." Applejack spoke, then sighed. "Thanks, Sugarcube. Where is she by the way? Crystal, I mean."
"She went ahead to Canterlot, making sure we can set foot there without being noticed by the cult instantly," the yellow mare explained.
"I see..." the orange mare commented.
"Anyways, Nurse Redheart said that they will still have to keep you here for a while. But don't worry. We won't let you down," Twilight started, lifting her head and looking at her friends. "Rarity, would you like to quit the investigation and stay with Applejack?"
"Actually... Ah'd prefer it if y'all keep goin'. Ya still need to stop those damn cultists, don't ya?" the orange mare wondered.
"Well, yes. But we simply can't leave you hanging right now! Not after what you have just been through!" Rarity explained.
Suddenly, Applejack became silent and her eyes lowered down to her body. After a while, her expression slipped into sadness and she started crying quietly, causing Twilight and Rarity to look at her in shock.
"Ah'm sorry. Ah'm such a big burden for y'all. Ya don't deserve havin' to deal with me right now," Applejack spoke.
"What are you talking about, AJ?! You are not a burden! You are our friend! We gladly stay by your side, even if you are not doing well at the moment. That's what friends are for!" Twilight tried to reason.
"Yeah, but..." Applejack started, trying to gather herself again. "I'll be honest with ya. Thing is... Nothing really changed. Mah family is still dead. Everythin' Ah had got crushed by the cult."
"We are here for you, darling. We will help you, no matter what," Rarity stated.
"That may be so, but... Ah haven't changed mah mind. Sure, ya saved me back then and I'm glad ya did that for me. Ah wouldn't want to go that far when I'm not actually in control... But that doesn't mean Ah suddenly have a reason to keep goin' still..." the orange mare explained.
The more Applejack spoke, the more her inner tension started to resurface. She slowly began to shake again while her eyes turned bloodshot and her pupils shrank to dots. The shock was clearly written in Twilight's and Rarity's faces. They thought Applejack was back to her usual self. But she still was under the influence of Maledictum Insania.
"Ah won't lie to ya... Next best given opportunity, Ah'd do it again. Just this time, I'd make sure nopony stops me," Applejack finished.
"But... But Applejack... Y-you... You can't do this. This is not what your family would want. Big Macintosh as well would do whatever he could to stop this from happening to you," Twilight spoke while the tears rolled down her face.
"Yeah... But thing is: Big Mac is not around anymore. None of mah family members are still around. What am Ah supposed to do now, Sugarcube? Just go on as if nothin' ever happened? Ah can't do it anymore... Ah don't have the strength left," the orange mare explained.
"Well, that's exactly the point, Applejack," Derpy suddenly started. "You are the last Apple alive. If you die, your bloodline becomes extinct. I can understand that you don't want to deal with all this anymore, but think about everypony else. Suicide is one of the most painful things to take in for everypony caring about you. Do you want to hurt your friends like that? Do you want to confirm the cultists in what they are doing? Is this really how you want it to end?"
It seemed like this had impact on Applejack. The idea of confirming those monsters who did this to her was an atrocity to her. For a bit, she became silent, only to slip back into tears moments later.
"Nah... I never wanted it to be like that... Ah had mah dreams and hopes, ya know? But they're all crushed now. Ah... just don't know how to go on at this point 'n' time anymore," she explained.
It became silent in the hospital room. Nopony knew what to say or do anymore. They all just sat there with tears in their eyes. They stopped Applejack from committing suicide, they protected her from a cultist attack and she even woke up again, even though the odds were bad. But despite all this, it seemed like they would still lose their friend.
Ten minutes of silence passed. Ten minutes in which everypony had no idea what to do next anymore. But ultimately, it was Applejack who broke the silence with a sigh.
"Ah still think y'all need to get goin'. Stop the cult. Please. Even if Ah can't join, ya need to stop the cult at any cost necessary," she requested.
"But what about you? If we leave you..." Rarity wondered.
"Ah... need some time to think about it all. Ah can promise ya that Ah won't take the next best opportunity to kill myself and ya can leave Derpy here to make sure of that. But Ah also want y'all to promise me somethin' in return," Applejack requested.
"Of course. Anything. Just say what it is," Twilight responded swiftly.
"I need y'all to promise me that, whatever I decide to do in the end, y'all accept it and not try to stop me. That mostly means that if Ah wanna die, ya let me. This is mah life and mah body. Ah'm the only pony allowed to judge over both. Ah just need to know that I have yar support, no matter what. That'd mean a lot to me," the orange mare spoke.
"You... honestly want us to agree in letting you die the next time it happens?" Twilight questioned.
"If that's what it'll all come down to, then I'll do it. Ya can try to stop me, but I'll try it over and over again until Ah succeed. That'd be my final decision and nothin's gonna change mah mind. It would just make everythin' a lot easier for me if Ah knew y'all would be okay with it and able to move on. Ah know, this might just be about impossible to accept. But the last thing Ah wanna do is cause even more pain to mah friends. Just... Just please... Do this for me. Promise me y'all accept my decision, no matter what it'll be," Applejack begged.
This was hard to take for all of her friends. Even considering to make this promise felt so incredibly wrong. But this was, as Derpy would describe it, a gray decision. Agreeing would be wrong, just like disagreeing would be wrong. After all, they didn't want to rob Applejack of her freedom to die or do with her body whatever she wanted to.
"Okay, Applejack. I'm doing this for you. Everything that will help you, even if it breaks my heart. I promise to you that I will accept your decision, no matter what it will be," Twilight finally decided.
"I... I can not believe I am actually saying this... But... Yes. I promise it, too," Rarity spoke while crying.
"Me, too," Fluttershy spoke quietly.
Now, Applejack smiled weakly, though she still had tear trails and bloodshot eyes.
"Thank y'all so much for that. Ya can't imagine what a huge relief that is for me," she spoke.
"Derpy... Would it be okay if I ask you to stay here and watch over Applejack?" Twilight asked while sniffling.
"I was just about to say that I'll do it, no problem. I will talk to Applejack and see if we can find out together what would be best for her, from the perspectives from a pony, as well as from a reaper," the gray mare replied.
"Thank you a lot for this... So... I guess we will be heading to Canterlot then... If you ever want to talk to us, you can send a letter anytime. I will respond as quickly as possible," Twilight offered.
"Thanks, Sugarcube. Good luck. Give those bastards a good beatin' for me," Applejack replied.
"Will do... Goodbye, Applejack," Fluttershy finished.
One by one, her friends embraced Applejack. Then, they picked up their saddlebags, opened the door and left with tear-soaked faces.
The clattering of their hooves had already vanished in the distance when Applejack looked around the room. Winona was right next to her, staring at her with her loyal little eyes. Derpy sat on the other side of the bed, showing a neutral expression.
"Where's mah hat?" she wondered.
"Right here," Derpy responded, then stood up to pick up the hat and handed it to Applejack.
"Thanks. Ah don't quite feel like mahself without it," the orange mare explained.
"So, what were your dreams and wishes about?" Derpy wanted to know.
"Well... Ah never really told anypony about mah biggest dream before. But, actually, Ah always wanted to..." |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | Catching The Spider | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 22: Catching The Spider
Once again, Twilight and her friends had to take big detours to avoid getting seen by potential cultists. But compared to the normally very exhausting ways the group had to travel, being hidden in the storage of an airship was a pleasant change. This way, they could prevent being spotted climbing up the mountain to Equestria's capital and avoid the by now very well observed train system. The only reason for anypony to even go to the airship's storage was to either store luggage bags or take them out again upon landing. But this security and comfort came with a price. The airship first had to wander all across Equestria before it would dock in Canterlot. This would once again delay the downfall of the BloodClaw Cult for several more critical days.
The storage room was dark. The only light sources were either the unicorns' horns or the door leading upstairs whenever a staff member entered and the group had to hide. The keepers of harmony had been doing this for what felt like an eternity with no indication how much time had passed or where they currently were. All they could rely on was the airship's time schedule, a map of Equestria and Twilight's wits to put that shallow information to use.
"Okay. If I got this right, we just departed from Cloudsdale. Which means we are finally heading to Canterlot," the purple mare analyzed.
"Finally," Rarity commented in an annoyed tone. "All this hiding and constantly being quiet is starting to stress me out. I tell you, Twilight. Once this all is over, I will lay down in a queen-size bed and not get up for days anymore. My back is killing me for sleeping on the ground for months."
"I hope this will all be over soon," Fluttershy started. "But our biggest challenge is still ahead of us. If Canterlot is truly the home of the BloodClaw Cult and if Black Widow is really there, we can expect the place to be crawling with cultists. We won't be able to take even a single step without constantly fearing to be attacked."
"True, and we can't just fight our way to their church, since we yet have to find it. If only we had a way to contact Crystal Blossom. We really could use her help to get started in Canterlot," Twilight commented.
"Has she still not responded to your letters?" Rarity wondered.
"No, but that doesn't surprise me. If she is still chasing after Despair, it might be that this demon is preventing the letters from reaching her. We can't contact the princesses to ask for more reaper support either, or we risk that the cultists find out we are there. Right now, we are on our own," the purple mare explained.
After she finished, the group did not have anything to talk about anymore. For a while, they tried to come up with a plan on how to tackle this situation ahead. But even for Twilight, it seemed next to impossible. They could not allow themselves to make a single mistake. In order to succeed, they would have to hide in Canterlot, find the BloodClaw church there, infiltrate it, assassinate Black Widow and escape, all without getting seen once. This was a task even an elder reaper would find very difficult. How were they supposed to manage all this on their own with such limited time left on top?
In the dim light of Rarity's horn, Twilight used her magic to take a few notes on things they had to keep in mind. They tried to gather as many ideas as possible, but only the fewest actually were useful. Suddenly, the door opened again. Rarity, Fluttershy and Twilight instantly hid themselves again. This time, it felt a lot shorter than before. Had the airship already docked in Canterlot?
Two sets of hooves were heard coming down the stairs. Then, as the sounds came to the middle of the storage room, the clattering stopped. It seemed like they were searching for something.
"Are you sure they are here?" a young female voice wondered.
"Yes. I have seen them coming. They are just hiding from us," a surprisingly familiar voice responded.
Twilight, Rarity and Fluttershy peeked out of their covers. In this next to total darkness, it was hard to make out anything. But it seemed like Fluttershy could see much better than her other two friends, causing her to be the first to leave her cover and calmly walk over to the two figures.
"You were the last one I would have expected to see here, Lady Truesight," the yellow mare started.
As soon as Twilight heard that name, she cast a light spell to illuminate the storage. It really was the reaper clairvoyant.
"Definitely have to agree with that," Twilight commented while leaving her cover along with Rarity. "What are you doing here?"
"Do not misunderstand, keepers of harmony. My opinion about you still stays the same. It was not my idea to search for you. This was Amber's wish," Truesight explained coldly, then gave the group an indicating glance down between her front legs.
Right below the red mare was another set of small orange-brown hooves, hiding beneath the cloak. Through the gap, a yellow eye could be seen, focusing Twilight in unease.
"Hey there," the purple mare started in a soft tone, lowering herself to the filly's level of height. "I remember you. How are-"
"Don't get too close, Twilight Sparkle," Truesight interrupted in a sharp tone. "I made a promise to guard this filly with my life. This also includes that I have to attack every pony who tries to approach her."
"Wow! Calm down, darling! It is not like we would hurt her!" Rarity tried to reason.
"Your intentions don't matter. She is afraid of all ponies," Truesight insisted.
"Wait a moment," Fluttershy requested. "You are raising her now? You promised to keep her safe? Is this the reason why you rescued her?"
"No, apprentice. I made this promise to her, not another pony," Truesight replied.
Now, the reaper mare carefully opened the cloak, just enough to present more of the filly. Instantly, Twilight's and Rarity's mouths fell open. Amber's mane and tail had regrown by now. They were short and rainbow-colored.
"She is a spectralist!" Twilight spoke in fascination. "That explains so much now! I guess this is also the reason why you saved her."
The moment Twilight's and Rarity's expressions changed, Amber retreated further beneath the cloak. Then, as Twilight had raised her voice, fear began to overwhelm the little filly. It was clearly written in her face, filling her eyes with tears and causing her to shake heavily. As soon as the group came to realize that, they started feeling guilty over their own reactions.
"I... I'm sorry. I didn't mean to frighten-" the purple mare tried to apologize.
"It doesn't matter, Twilight Sparkle. What my intentions are for saving her and taking care of her are also none of your concerns. The sole reason I am here at all is only because she wanted to tell you something," Truesight interrupted.
"Well, that still doesn't mean you have to be so-" Rarity started.
"Just let it be as it is, Rarity," Fluttershy interrupted, trying to calm her friend and settle the conflict. "There is no point in arguing over something like that. In fact, I think if they went through the trouble to come here and tell us something, we should listen to them."
"Well, yes," Twilight agreed. "Let's just put all this to the side and get to the core: What is it you want to tell us, Amber?"
It took the filly a moment to gather her courage again. But eventually, she took a step forth anew and glanced through the gap of the cloak with her good eye again.
"I... have seen pictures," she whispered insecurely.
"Well, I guess that's something Truesight can help you more with than I. She is a spectralist herself after all," Twilight explained.
"N-no... I mean... literally, pictures. Many of them in a big hall. But one isn't real. A big mansion with no windows," Amber corrected meekly.
Suddenly, Rarity twitched. Her eyes went wide open, as if she exactly knew what the filly was talking about.
"You... you don't mean... that picture?!" she asked insecurely.
"Does this ring a bell?" Fluttershy wondered.
"Well... before you came to visit us, Fluttershy, I went to see my Canterlot friends. One of them is running an art gallery and had gained a few new pieces for her collection. The picture Amber just described was one of them... Oh my stars... Does that mean..." the fashion diva wondered.
"That is up to you to find out now," Truesight started. "While I do not support you actively, keepers of harmony, you also mustn't think that I stand in your way. I explained to Amber that you are trying to stop the very same ponies who murdered her family and tortured her. She may just have about as much trust in you as I do, but she still wished to support your cause."
"Well. In that case, I have to thank you, Lady Truesight. I know, the situation between us is pretty uneasy. But I really appreciate this," Twilight replied, then went down to the filly's height again. "Also: Thanks to you too, Amber! This is a really big help! I hope we can be friends one day."
It seemed like Amber did not know how to react to that statement. She just lowered her glance and retreated further beneath Truesight again.
"I would say that this is enough. We still have a lot to do, so we will be leaving now," Truesight stated, then turned over to Fluttershy. "Purity and sacrifice for Equestria."
"Purity and sacrifice," Fluttershy replied.
After that, the reaper clairvoyant and the little filly turned back around and went upstairs again. ---
Several hours later, it was finally time. The airship docked at its final destination. Using a wooden crate, barrel and large luggage bag, the three mares managed to get out of the airship unseen and were brought straight to a warehouse. There, they waited until they could not hear any noises around them anymore.
Rarity was the first to leave her cover. It was night by now and the warehouse had been closed. Only two guards were still patrolling around. After she found the hideout of her other two friends and they all reunited, they swiftly escaped through the roof by unlocking a window with a spell while none of the guards were watching.
As they landed on the roof, all three gazed into the city ahead of them. There it was. Canterlot. The capital city of Equestria and base of the BloodClaw Cult. Never would they have guessed that their investigation would end here. From now on, it was all or nothing. One slip-up and they would either die or be unable to ever catch the high priestess of the cult. Both Twilight and Rarity were well aware of that fact and felt the tension accordingly.
"A fake picture of a windowless mansion... Truesight seemed to be sure that this vision was correct. But even so, what does it mean?" Rarity wondered.
"I guess the only way to find out is by going there. I doubt either one of them would give us such an information, knowing how dangerous it could turn out for us, if they weren't convinced it is exactly what we are looking for. What can you tell me about the art gallery?" Twilight requested.
"It is quite popular, darling. If we wait for it to open, we won't have a chance to get through without being seen. The security is also pretty high," the fashion diva explained.
"Phew... Breaking into an art gallery. That sounds difficult. We will have to expect a lot of guards there," Twilight worried.
"Maybe we can use the employee entrance and disguise ourselves as guards, too. It will most likely be locked, but if you can open a locked window or metal door, I don't think that this will be a problem for you, Twilight," Fluttershy suggested.
"I doubt they would fall for it, but if we can find uniforms there, it will at least increase our chances. Let's go for it," the purple mare agreed.
Both Rarity and Fluttershy nodded in response. Then, the yellow mare picked up her friends again and jumped off the building. ---
After nearly two hours of carefully maneuvering through the streets of Canterlot, avoiding well lit streets and contact with any pony possible, they finally were able to locate the art gallery Rarity had described. Just as expected, there were several guards on the main entrance and one on the back. Using a small illusion, Twilight created a shadow that closely rushed past the guard, causing just enough distraction for the group to slip through the employee entrance and lock the door behind them again by magic. After getting dressed and Fluttershy finished hiding her cloak, they walked through the corridor into the main hall.
Hundreds of art pieces were on display. Some taking up a huge part of the wall, some just as big as their heads. Every once in a while, the three mares heard a guard approach. In these moments, they tried to find a balance between being difficult to find and not obviously hiding from the guards in case they would be spotted. This game worked out twice in a row, but Twilight knew that their luck was bound to run out sooner or later.
"Twilight! Fluttershy! I think I found it!" Rarity called in a whispering tone.
Immediately, her friends came over. The white mare was standing in front of a large picture of an abstractly drawn mansion, standing on a hill in the sunlight. Like described in the vision, it lacked any windows and only had one door.
"So... what do we do now?" Rarity wondered.
"Give me a moment," Twilight spoke and started to analyze the picture.
It took a while, but the purple mare ultimately realized that this picture was better secured than the other ones. The standard security measures aside, Twilight also noticed a few chalk lines behind the frame. It seemed like somepony drew a magic rune on the wall to trigger some sort of trap if the picture would be touched.
"Hm... Rune magic... I'm still not too familiar with that topic, but if I interpret this correctly, it has something to do with time manipulation. Perhaps to immobilize the pony touching it or making the picture decay much faster. I can't be certain," Twilight analyzed.
"Oh, if only we had Derpy with us right now," Rarity commented.
"Well, all we can do is try to break it on our own..." the purple mare stated, then opened her saddlebag and made a quill fly out of it.
Using the soft, feathery end, she carefully brushed away the chalk on one of the lines. Tension filled her being, as if she was trying to defuse a bomb. Finally, she could no longer see the line. Nothing happened.
"Let's just hope this does the trick," Twilight commented and started analyzing the picture again.
After judging that there would be no alarm by simply touching the picture itself, the purple mare carefully lifted her right front leg. But surprisingly, as she tried to put it on the picture, the hoof went right through it.
"Oh my gosh... Okay, I have to admit this is absolutely ingenious," Twilight commented.
"Why? What is it?" Fluttershy wondered.
"This is not a picture. It is a portal. Setting it up like that and making the scenery look so bright and abstract even during night is some highly advanced magic. I also have no idea where in Equestria this place on the other side is, if it is even a real place," the purple mare explained.
"Oh my stars... I simply can not believe it! Even the Canterlot Elite, my own friends, are working for the cult! Hiding a portal in plain sight like that... I'm pretty sure we would have never figured that one out," Rarity commented.
"Don't worry, Rarity. They will get what they deserve," Twilight assured.
Suddenly, Fluttershy heard a door opening. One of the guards must have entered the building and be on his way here. She quickly tapped both of her friends on their shoulders and pointed in the direction of the sound. This was already enough for them to understand, causing them to become nervous.
"Let's get going, girls!" Twilight whispered and went ahead.
As soon as she went through, Fluttershy followed up. But when Rarity attempted to enter the picture, she encountered a problem and started to panic a bit.
"My saddlebags are too big! They won't fit through!" she announced quietly.
"Do you see some place where you could hide them until we return?" Twilight wondered.
"No. I can not leave them behind anyway! All my gems are in them!" Rarity explained.
"Then try taking them off and step through first, then use your magic to lift them through afterwards! Please, hurry!" the purple mare suggested.
Rarity quickly undid the strap which held the bags on her back and stepped through the painting. Then she lifted up the bags by magic and tried to get them through. But in the rush of the situation, she let the strap hit the frame. The rune reacted, though due to being malfunctional now, it just gave off a short screech. Still, this noise was enough to alarm the approaching guard, making him run towards the main hall, as heard from the hoof clattering.
"Shoot! Quick, hide!" Twilight commanded quietly.
All three mares rapidly ran into the next best hideout. Then, the guard reached the picture. Twilight decided to position herself just next to the portal and could see the guard eyeing it up. It took mere moments for him to realize that somepony had manipulated the rune behind the frame, causing him to get even more suspicious. Then he stared into it, as if he knew it was not real and searched inside the picture. Finally, the guard decided to step through the portal. As he entered, his guard outfit changed into a BloodClaw robe. That confirmed it. They found they cult's church in Canterlot.
After letting the cultist take a few steps forward, Twilight conjured a magical sword and sliced it through the stallion's neck. He instantly collapsed dead.
"My goodness, darling..." Rarity commented quietly.
"He was a cultist, so no regrets and no mercy. This won't be the last one we will have to kill tonight in order to get to Black Widow," Twilight explained. "Fluttershy, could you take care of him, please?"
With a nod, the yellow mare stepped out of her cover, summoned her scythe and rammed it into the dead body. Then, after the soul escaped from it, she pulled it behind a bush to hide it for the moment while Twilight used a spell to remove the blood trail it left behind.
"Alright... So far, so good," the purple mare commented, then turned around.
The mansion was huge. Just by looking at it, she could figure that they would encounter several hundred cultists in there.
Twilight went ahead, sneaking around the building once. There really was no door or window other than the front door. While this made the mansion pretty much a fortress, there also were a few advantages for the group. The mere design of this church meant that there was just one way to escape: The way they came from. In case their assault would get noticed, all they needed to do then would be to block off the front door and kill as many cultists as possible. But then again, it would be foolish to expect that there would be no form of emergency exit inside the church.
"Alright. I guess we really have no other choice. We need to stay undetected until we find Black Widow. Everything else is sure to fail and get us killed. I need both of you to pay absolute attention now. There is no turning back anymore," Twilight explained as soon as she returned.
Rarity gulped hard. Just the three of them. No backup plan, no support from outside. Only an assault on a demon stronghold would be even more dangerous than this.
Twilight once again went ahead and very carefully turned the door knob by magic. Using another spell, she made sure the door would open without any noise and peeked inside. Two cultists at once were guarding the door, but luckily not looking at it right now.
There was no other way. Twilight carefully closed the door again. Then, she closed her eyes and started building up an arcane aura around her body. Slowly, she made it seep through the gap beneath the door and gathered it up behind the cultists. At once, she immobilized both cultists and used her arcane magic to forcefully squeeze their throats. Like this, she held them for nearly a minute, making absolutely sure she successfully strangled them to death. After that, she opened the door again and carefully snuck inside.
The inside of the building looked normal again. Dark wooden walls and a black carpet themed the whole mansion's internal design. The entrance hall was clear. For now at least. Twilight could hear cultists patrolling all over the place. So, like before, she used one of the robes as a disguise, stored the other robe to hand to one of her friends later and carefully placed the bodies to make them look like the guards where just sitting on the ground and leaning against the walls. After she was done, she waved Fluttershy and Rarity inside.
Before they could even consider to advance, the group could hear a cultist approaching from the hall to the left. Twilight and Rarity instantly sought cover. Fluttershy, though, hid herself next to the doorway and held her scythe ready to use. A few moments later, the cultist stepped through and instantly spotted the two dead guards.
"Hey! No sleeping on du-" was all she could say before Fluttershy rammed her scythe through her chest.
Now, an advantage of the design of the cultist's robes became clear. Due to them mostly being blood red, actual blood could hardly be seen on them. As the cultist collapsed dead, Fluttershy swiftly reaped the other two. Then, they all put on the robes, tried to hide the bodies as well as possible and started sneaking through the church. ---
Twilight sought for shallowly guarded paths. The less cultists they had to kill on their way to Black Widow, the better were their chances to get through unseen. Still, one after another had to be eliminated, forcing even Rarity to start killing a few in order to protect her friends. She clearly had huge difficulties and felt immense regret after each kill, but she understood perfectly well that there was no alternative.
Finally, organ music filled the air. It seemed like they infiltrated the church while it was in the middle of a ceremony. That would explain why there were relatively few guards on patrol. But it also meant that they would face some serious problems once the celebration was over. Unless...
By following the music and chanting of the cultists, the group finally managed to find the ceremonial hall. Acting as if they were guards, they positioned themselves next to the doors and waited for the meeting to end. Finally, the door opened and countless cultists just walked past them. Twilight intended to use the crowd as her disguise. She gave a swift signal to her friends, then just walked past the cultists inside the hall.
Unlike other BloodClaw churches Twilight had seen, this one was rather minimalistic. A huge hall with lots of space. No pictures on the walls. Just praising lines, written on the light brown wallpaper in blood. Crystal chandeliers were hanging from the ceiling, giving the hall a weird, nearly holy contrast. The black floor was surprisingly clean and had a long red carpet in the middle, leading to a huge statue of Nightmare Moon. It was clearly made out of expensive black marble and crafted with a lot of skill and detail. But what was most interesting in this room was right in front of said effigy. A mare in a red and black ceremonial dress and a black scarf with red spider symbols on each end, wearing a red and black cloth mask. High priestess Black Widow was here. Just on the other end of this hall. Just in line of sight.
The cultists were walking in every direction. Some even remained in the hall to talk to each other. But a few of them remained in guarding position closely to Black Widow. Perhaps one of them would be a skin-walker, or even Despair.
Twilight couldn't risk an attack over distance. It might end up being blocked before impact. So far, everything was going surprisingly well. She could not allow herself to start getting impatient... If they pulled this off right, it would end now. Just a few skilled sneak maneuvers. Just a few unsuspicious looking steps towards her, and they would finally be able to cut off the head of the snake.
Fluttershy, Rarity and Twilight began to mingle with the cultists, trying their best to get closer and closer to the high priestess. She was distracted right now, talking to one of the cultists herself.
The situation could hardly be any better, Twilight thought. Just a bit closer... Just a little bit.
Suddenly, one of the cultists grabbed Fluttershy's robe. The blood had started to dry, making the stain more visible now. The yellow mare tried to avoid eye contact, but ultimately, the cultist came to realize that her eyes were black and instantly drew a knife.
"Reaper among us!" he shouted.
Fluttershy had no choice anymore. She summoned her scythe and killed the cultist before he could stab her. Instantly, the whole church turned against her.
Twilight just stood there, waiting for a moment. Her eyes jumped between Black Widow, Fluttershy and Rarity. Then, she saw that the high priestess was intending to run again.
"Rarity! Chase after Black Widow!" Twilight shouted.
The fashion diva instantly started running. A few cultists were chasing after her, but most still focused on Fluttershy. Within moments, the ceremonial hall was filled with cultists again. This was exactly what Twilight was waiting for.
All this only took a few seconds, in which just a couple of cultists came to realize what was going on and also aimed for Twilight. But it was already too late. She knew what she was capable of. For these few seconds, the cultists were all still alive. But then, Twilight's eyes turned white again.
Another loud arcane explosion filled the mansion. Blood and shredded ponies flew through the air. Twilight and Fluttershy were the only ones present in the ceremonial hall spared. At least, that is what she had hoped. A good dozen of cultists still stood there, unaffected by the explosion. It was more than obvious to both that these were no actual ponies, so the skin-walkers gave up their disguises and assaulted both mares as abstract masses of limbs, blades, claws and teeth.
Through Twilight's actions, the demons had more than enough flesh and souls to feed on for a prolonged battle. The fight against them was hectic. Twilight couldn't even analyze what she was doing and just reacted. Minutes passed. Precious minutes which might end up to Black Widow's advantage.
Twilight had already exhausted herself with the arcane explosion. Her nose started bleeding again, but she could not allow herself to slow down now. These demons needed to be slain as quickly as possible.
The purple mare went all out, casting arcane spells in all directions around her. Every once in a while, Fluttershy successfully pinned down a skin-walker and consumed it. When the last one was finally defeated, Twilight could hardly stand anymore. She felt dizzy, sick, incredibly tired. Shakily, she dropped her saddlebags next to her and tried to open them. But her front legs were trembling so much, she could hardly keep them under control. A few moments later, she started throwing up blood. Twilight was close to fainting when she suddenly came to realize that Fluttershy was holding her pill bottle, lid already opened and offered it to her.
Twilight instantly grabbed the bottle and tossed a few pills in her mouth. With no water available, she just chewed them up and tried to swallow the dry, sandy medicine. It was a bit of a struggle, but she finally succeeded. The medication Twilight needed was very strong, so in a matter of minutes, she started feeling better, was able to breathe again and her sickness slowly vanished.
Still, she was extremely strained and could hardly stand anymore, let alone walk. So Fluttershy just picked up the purple mare's saddlebags and helped her get moving. After all, they still had to chase after Black Widow. ---
It took a while to track down where she went. But as they finally spotted Rarity, a feeling of enormous relief overwhelmed Twilight. The fashion diva had managed to drive Black Widow in a corner. She was stuck in a small room, not much bigger than a broom closet, stuffed with shelves full of potions and bottled substances. The only way in or out was covered in a thick layer of ice. They had her. They finally, finally had Black Widow.
"Good job, Rarity," Twilight congratulated weakly.
"Thank you, dar- Oh my stars! Are you okay?" Rarity wondered in shock as she saw how pale, weak and blood-coated her friend was.
"I just took my medication. I will be okay. Let's not get distracted now. We can't let anything get between us and Black Widow," the purple mare stated.
All eyes returned to the high priestess of the BloodClaw Cult. She was clearly panicking, punching and kicking the walls and ice in desperate attempt to escape.
"Guardian! Guardian! Where are you! Save me, Despair!" Black Widow shouted.
"She is not here. Its over, Black Widow. You won't escape your punishment this time. Justice will finally be served," Twilight spoke.
Slowly, the trapped mare started to calm down. After a while she just sat down and stared at the group.
"Justice... What do you know about justice? Is it just to be lied to your whole life long? Is it just to get your life crushed for the sakes of others? Look at yourselves, keepers of harmony. Blood-sodden, murderous and destiny-driven. Are you any different from us at all?" Black Widow wondered.
"You can just be quiet. No matter what you say, your words will fall on deaf ears. The only reason why you are not dead yet is because I'm too exhausted to cast a spell past that thick ice," Twilight stated.
"I guess I still have a bit of time then. Don't you want to know who that pony is you intent to murder? Are you not interested in her story at all?" the high priestess offered.
"Whatever, darling. You won't get out of this alive. We just need to wait for the ice to melt, then you are finished. What you do in the meantime is up to you," Rarity replied, then placed a front hoof on her chin. "Though, I have to say I would be very much interested in finding out why your voice sounds so familiar to me."
"Well, I can't blame you for not remembering me all that well," Black Widow stated, then grabbed the bottom end of her mask and removed it. "We have only met once after all."
As soon as the mask came off, Rarity's expression changed to shock. Now, she finally realized whom they were dealing with all this time. She was a white coated, pink maned unicorn mare with purple eyes. Everypony who had witnessed her beauty even once would never forget her, which must have been the main reason she wore this mask and dress. She was famous. Very famous, in fact, among the top models of Equestria.
"You are... Fleur De Lis?!" Rarity shouted in disbelief.
Fleur just grinned sinisterly in response. Her eyes fell upon Rarity's open saddlebag, revealing the dozens of gems inside.
"Hmm, a pony with expensive tastes, I see!" she stated mockingly.
> Dissatisfaction
Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 23: Dissatisfaction
Once again, it was silent. Rarity stared at Fleur De Lis with an expression of disbelief. Twilight was similarly surprised. After all, she was believed to be dead by the government. But this didn't seem to be the reason why Rarity was so shocked.
"You know her?" the purple mare wondered.
"She used to be Fancy Pants' closest friend! He spoke so highly of you whenever you were the topic of our conversations... I just can not believe you joined the BloodClaw Cult after he died!" Rarity explained.
"Oh, I already was a member of the cult when I killed him," Fleur replied, grinning devilish.
"Wha... You?! You killed Fancy Pants?!" Rarity shouted.
"Just the same way I killed Soarin, Hoity Toity, your friend from the charity auction and pretty much every other pony I had a relationship with," the top model stated casually.
"So you are the pony behind the celebrity disappearances and murders," Fluttershy analyzed.
Rarity just stood there, gasping in lack of words. This was too much for her. It was explaining everything so well. Fleur De Lis had very strong connections with high society all over Equestria and direct connections to Canterlot Castle. In her position, it was a piece of cake to convince others to do her bidding and to gather any information she required.
"How? Just how could you do all this, Fleur?" Rarity wanted to know.
Fleur's expression slipped from a sinister smile into an angry glance. She took a deep breath before she bothered to respond.
"You are just the same as everypony else. You have no idea what it is like. I have been a member of high society all my life and if I could have traded my life with anypony else, I would have instantly accepted that deal. You can't believe that I killed all the ponies dear to me? Well, I can't believe you want to be part of this whole hypocritical act," she replied.
"Huh?" was all Rarity could say. ---
For as long as I can remember, I had always been in the spotlight. Born into a rich and famous family, everypony was expecting a lot of success from me from the very beginning. I grew up surrounded by a mountain of the highest quality toys, fed with a silver spoon by my personal butler and enjoyed the best schooling in the entire land by hoof-picked private teachers. It took me many years to realize that, throughout my youth, I was always missing something. Something that is a lot more important than anything material in this world and seemed to be standard to the entire rest of the land: friends.
I was raised to be a little picky snob and I acted just like that in my teenage years. I always thought of myself as way, way above everypony outside of my family. Why shouldn't I? My whole family was like that. But when the time came for me to look for work, I was quickly pushed down from my high throne. Nopony wanted to deal with me, since I saw others just as servants for me. I came and went as I pleased and nopony had any right to tell me anything.
For the longest time, I was unable to find a job. This greatly displeased my parents. A failure in their family? Unacceptable. So the pressure was on. If I couldn't find a way to bring fame and fortune to my house, I would be disinherited and thrown on the street.
I had so many fights with my family and ran away so often. I was lost. I didn't know what to do anymore. On my own, I would have never figured out what I did wrong. But then, he came into my life.
Fancy Pants was just a teenager back then. He found me, and he saved me. I don't know what he saw in me. I was an unbearable little beast back then. But he had so much patience for me. Compared to him, I felt so crude. Everything Fancy did, he did with perfected elegance. He was so calm, so gentle, so... friendly. He never demanded anything. He was grateful for even the smallest things and instantly saw everypony he met as a friend. Slowly, I came to realize that not acting like him was my great mistake.
It was a tough piece of work, but I ultimately adapted. While I still did not fully understand why this was what everypony wanted me to behave like, I at least could act now in the expected role.
Suddenly, things started to change. Ponies suddenly started enjoying to spend time with me. They even called me 'friend'... Friend? What are friends? I never had any. Was Fancy Pants my friend, too?
Eventually, I came across Photo Finish. She was just an aspiring photographer back then with no name. I was one of her first models and she just loved the way I looked. Even though the way I was raised mostly just caused me a lot of problems, it at least made me end up with a body every mare in Equestria could only dream of having.
From then on, everything happened very fast. Before I even realized, years went by and I rocketed into the ranks of the top five most demanded models in the entire land. In all this time, Fancy Pants never let go of me. He kept sticking around, kept meeting me. Slowly, I started to understand. I was so grateful. I would have ended up on the streets without him.
Fancy Pants saved my life. And for that, I loved him.
Again, it took me a long time to even become aware of my feelings for him. I never experienced anything like that before. I spent most of my life surrounded by butlers and private teachers. My family barely ever had time for me. They just expected me to work, so how could I have known such feelings even existed?
I am not a mare very capable of dealing with feelings. I never learned how to cope with what was happening inside me. So, I also never understood how to deal with Fancy Pants, now that I was in love with him. I thought, maybe if I just kept spending time with him, he would eventually... I don't know... find out? I honestly never understood how these things work.
I don't know how much time has passed then. I knew the seasons changed and all, but it felt timeless to me. I just wanted to be close to him. I always sought for opportunities to just... just... I honestly don't know.
Then... this mare appeared. Rarity. She just bumped into Fancy Pants one morning. From that moment on, everything changed. I was just standing nearby, waiting for Fancy to finish talking to this mare and throwing a few poses. But neither of them even looked at me. Suddenly, I realized Fancy had gone ahead without me. That never happened before. What was going on?
The more time passed, the worse things got. He wanted to see Rarity much more often than every other mare he knew. Slowly, it felt like even I became less important to him.
I still don't understand why this made me so sad. I look at Fancy Pants and suddenly, I feel like crying. I think of Rarity and suddenly, I feel angry. Why is this happening to me? It hurts. I want it to stop. What can I do? I got lost once again.
The more time I spent at work, the more I came to realize how superficial my job is. Sure, I was admired by many for my beauty. But nopony ever cared to look deeper than my coat. I don't know if they would even be able to understand what was going on inside me if not even I was capable of doing just that. But they did not even try. I was just a beautiful statue to them. Even my own family only praised me for being successful. They didn't care for what happened inside me. They didn't want to know. It was my problem, they said. That I was old enough to deal with this myself now.
I am just a shell. If I lost my good looks, nopony would even care about me anymore. Maybe not even Fancy Pants.
Four years ago... I will never forget that evening. I was with him again and once more, all he could talk about was Rarity. I spent every single day with him and never once did it seem like he appreciated me for that. Rarity, he didn't see in years, yet he kept talking about her so often and praised her so much. Was all we had been through together worth nothing to him? Could he have forgotten it all? Or was he just so used to it by now, he didn't see it anymore? But what he said then... this was the first time I ever realized my heart was broken.
A candlelight dinner with Rarity... He never even asked me for one. At that moment... I can't even put in words what was happening to me. All I remember asking myself is: Is he in love with Rarity?
No matter what I would do, I would always just remain a good friend to Fancy Pants. He even made that clear to me with a toast over a glass of grape juice.
As I went back home to my own apartment... I didn't even have any thoughts in my mind. I was blown empty of anything. After a while, it seemed to me that what others thought of me was true. If I can't even feel or think, I guess I truly am but a pretty shell.
Before I could reach my home, I was blocked in my path. I could not believe who was standing in front of me... wearing this robe... red with three black claw marks. I would have never guessed that it would redefine my entire existence not much later.
I was stunned. In awe. Even I had to admit that this pony in front of me was a lot higher than I am or will ever be. As it was expected of me, I bowed down, only to be asked back up immediately. I was offered a way out of my misery. 'They will show you everything you don't know. Everything will be much clearer to you once you met them'. 'Them?' I wondered. Oh yes. Them.
They were just a small group back then. The worshippers of Nightmare Moon. The ponies who knew the truth. I was brought to the BloodClaw Cult.
They were so different from anypony I have ever met. They welcomed me with open front legs and accepted me just the way I was. Unlike anypony before, they did not care for how I looked like. They wanted to see inside me, see what was going on in these depths which not even I understood. Then, they started sharing me their secrets.
I don't know how long I sat there and listened with wide open eyes. This was too much for me to handle all at once. Demons? Blessings? The tyrant alicorns? I did not even understand half of what they were talking about. But as time passed and I went through my daily routines with that knowledge in the back of my mind, things slowly became clear to me.
All the sudden, my naivete ended. As I saw more and more signs of what was truly going on in this land, in this society, things finally became clear and understandable for me. Looking back now, I can hardly believe how dull I was to not ever once question why things were like they were. It is all just an act. Everything is fake. Princess Celestia enraged Nightmare Moon and brought her fury over this land. She manipulated the way ponies thought for such a long time, which made them all just as superficial as I observed all around me the whole time. It finally became clear to me: It was not my fault. The way things happened around me, the way I was treated by others. I did not provoke it. I never did anything wrong. It was the princess and her manipulation which created this society as it is. For the first time in my life, I felt at peace with myself. A huge guilt was taken from my shoulders, and I had the BloodClaw Cult to thank for it.
But still, I was unsatisfied. My heart still belonged to a stallion who didn't want me. I was unable to express this myself, but I didn't need to. The cultists could see right through me. They could put in words what I couldn't. And they had solutions.
I spent time with the cult frequently now. I took part in their demon worshipping and they advised to me that I should pray to Nightmare Moon about my desires. One day, my prayers were answered.
A demon entered the ceremonial hall. The first time I ever saw one in person. I was quite frankly intimidated by its divinity. I knew they could be cruel, but that was not why it was here. It spoke to me and offered a deal.
The demon held a potion bottle in its claws. A special love potion, created by the demons. If I accepted this gift and drank it, I would gain the ability to make everypony I desire fall in love with me. All it demanded in return was my undying loyalty to Nightmare Moon. I already was so grateful she took me under her wings, made her children protect me and her disciples take care of me. How could I deny her such a simple and modest request?
From the moment on I drank that potion, I was in paradise. I just went up to Fancy Pants the next day, looked into his eyes and he suddenly started to blush. He confessed his love to me and I... I was so happy. So very grateful for this gift Nightmare Moon made me. This was all I ever asked for.
Weeks passed by, full of tender moments with my stallion. Mine! Not Rarity's! Oh, if only she would be around to see us now. How happy we are. I wanted to see her green with envy.
But after a while, I noticed something. I had everything I ever wanted... but... it wasn't enough. I was rich, successful, had the stallion of my dreams as mine... but it still wasn't enough to satisfy me.
I tried everything I could think of. I made Fancy Pants do the most ridiculous things for my amusement. I made him do things with me no pony would be able to speak about without feeling deeply humiliated. Still, no matter what I tried, I still had this deep, underlying feeling of dissatisfaction inside me.
I got more and more frustrated. Mostly with Fancy Pants. He did everything I wanted. He tried every trick to please me. How could he, of all ponies, fail to make me happy? It certainly was not my fault! I follow the teachings of Nightmare Moon! I see and act like everypony should!
No. It was him. Fancy Pants was too much of one of Celestia's loyalists. I could never be happy with one who was still so blind to the truth as he was. At this point, he reduced himself to an object in my possession. So I did with him what I did with so many things that did not please me: I got rid of him.
After I finished stabbing him and let him bleed to death in that dark backstreet where nopony would be looking, I could feel the demon queen smiling at me. I just knew that this pleased her.
Nightmare Moon, her children and her disciples... It felt like they were the only ones who truly were capable of understanding me. Why should I even bother to keep looking for a mate now? They have done me better than any of the alicorns' followers had ever been for me.
For more than a year, I devoted most of my attention to the BloodClaw Cult and its needs. I donated a majority of my money to them and finally, we could start spreading to other cities. We were a wealthy little secret society by then and our exclusive knowledge granted us a lot of power.
The more I did for Nightmare Moon's children and the cult, the more I rose in rank. My reputation shot up like I only last experienced in my modeling career. Eventually, I was asked for a very special task.
The demons personally invited me to Tartarus, their biggest and most populated stronghold. A sanctuary of such massive proportions, one as small as us ponies can barely withstand the urge to fall on our knees in awe. I was surrounded by thousands of my lords. I felt like I had entered the heaven of demons.
Still, despite all this, I had to stay focused. I had a task to complete. It was up to me to bring back one of the most important children Nightmare Moon ever created. I already had everything I needed. Due to my connections, I could easily get ponies to gather the ingredients from Ponyville. A bone exhumed out of Obsidian Shards' grave. A sample of Twilight Sparkle's blood, directly given to us from her doctor. A spell tome from the cult's private library. A metal container of phoenix ash.
Here, among all these gods, with countless eyes watching me, I had to draw a rune in this divine red darkness. I added the bone and poured the blood over it. Then I cast the spell as described in the book. It worked. Right in front of me, Nightmare Moon's child came back to life.
She greeted me with a sinister grin. Of course, I immediately bowed down and welcomed her back. Though she did not act as I would have expected. Of course, our lords know that they are divine and have every reason to look down on us puny mortal creatures. But she wasn't like that. She wanted to, I could hardly believe my ears, be my friend. Friendship with a demon? Do our lords really care so much about us? I asked her for her name. From that moment on, I was constantly accompanied by Despair, the Guillotine of Hope.
With Despair by my side, the cult suddenly gained a never before seen efficiency. Our influence spread across Equestria like wildfire. Every city would soon have a church and the number of disciples rose into the ten thousands.
But with all I did for the cult, I disregarded my own needs. Sometimes, I missed this innocent, beautiful sensation of being in love with somepony. Every now and then, I looked through the streets with a longing sigh. Would I ever get a second chance? Did I have to feel guilty for making our lords create a gift exclusively for me and never putting it to use again?
I looked into the sky. Then I saw them. The Wonderbolts flew to Canterlot during their training routine. I watched them. Such muscular bodies. Such great athletes. Wouldn't it be nice to have one for your own? Somepony you could really brag about for having as your coltfriend?
I scanned through them carefully. All the male members had some features worth wanting them for. But I did not just want features. I wanted fame. Call me superficial, but this is what this world and society is about. So, I chose the best of all male flyers. I chose Soarin.
He had no chance to resist my charms. What a stallion. So strong, so skilled, so fast. The complete opposite of Fancy Pants. For a while, I was happy again. I could even bring him to the BloodClaw Cult. Even though he wasn't a member, as long as I desired it, he would never reveal any of my secrets.
But once again, as the weeks passed by, the same sensation as before returned. I was unsatisfied with Soarin. He was interesting when he was still a Wonderbolt and completely out of reach for any mare. But now, he turned into my servant, just like Fancy Pants. This just wouldn't do. So, in Nightmare Moon's honor, I spilled his blood.
The demons and the disciples were pleased. 'Deadly as a Black Widow' they praised me. Even Despair could only agree with everything I did. Soon after, she suggested me to become a priestess of the cult. I knew I already learned enough about the demon queen's blessing and her children to be able to hold ceremonies, but it still was such an honor. Slowly, my official job as a top model became less and less important. I relished my task as priestess of the BloodClaw Cult. I was admired by so many who did not just look at me, but also inside me. They understood me. They supported me. In return, I gave everything to make them strong. With Despair's help, it was an easy thing to accomplish.
Still, it wouldn't let me go anymore. Why couldn't I be happy in relationships? What was I doing wrong? Perhaps I should look for a stallion who was closer to my line of work. Somepony who had more in common with me. So I tore Hoity Toity out of his marriage and made him mine.
The stakes were higher than ever this time. His wife was in the way. I had to make sure Hoity hid from her and fully committed to me. If she found me, the press would soon find out and I would end up in the newspapers in a romance scandal.
She annoyed me. I had to get rid of her, so the demons offered their help once again. Silently, they abducted this little pest. I don't know what happened to her, but neither did I ever care. All I cared about is that, whatever my lords had done with her, not even the news ever reported her disappearance.
Hoity was a fine stallion. Such a good taste in fashion. We could talk about a lot. But once again, he failed to please me. How very frustrating. Once more, I am left unsatisfied by a stallion. As I discovered that, he meant nothing to me anymore. He was nothing but another sacrifice in honor of the demon queen then.
I had become a serial killer of blinded ponies following the alicorns. This brought me more fame and appreciation than my whole career as a model ever brought to me. 'Black Widow' slowly turned into a nickname for me. And I have to say, I started to enjoy it.
The more time passed, the deeper my insight into the truth the demons had to share became. By now, I was no longer a student. I had become the teacher for thousands of disciples. My duties as a priestess made me travel around more than my job. I met so many cultists with so many various interpretations of Nightmare Moon's teachings. Yes. I found a true family. The ponies who raised me could hardly be called like that. They never were around. They always just demanded from me. But still, they are the reason I was born. For that, I will at least give them the opportunity to join the BloodClaw Cult and find out the truth of how much more than they I had become. If they refuse, they will die in honor of Nightmare Moon.
So many ponies admired me. In the cult, as well as in the public. Outside of the bloodstained walls, I was playing my usual act. But my inner perception had changed. I no longer look at these ponies as my kind. They are like sheep, blindly following the alicorns. They are worthless. Everytime I see them, I hear their admiring words, I can't help but laugh mentally.
But they are not entirely useless. The 'Black Widow' is still on a hunt for the stallion capable of satisfying her. So, instead of looking for a stallion myself, I let them come to me. I had so many fans who admired me so much. Maybe a few of them even were honest with their flattery. So I gave them all a chance. I seduced them, invited them to my home, spent intimate hours with them. But every time, they failed. Not a single one of them could even succeed in making a night memorable. I don't even want to count how often I had to change the water in my whirlpool because it turned red from all the blood I spilled into it.
With all my sacrifices for the demons and their queen, I gained a lot of respect from my lords. At last, they officially declared me as the high priestess of the BloodClaw Cult. With my deep understanding of Maledictum Insania, the demon queen's desires and everything the cult stands for, I became its very embodiment. By now, Despair was not only my counselor, but also my private bodyguard.
I finally decided to abandon my old life and fully give myself to the demon queen and the cult. While just few even knew I was still around before, my lords now rearranged records to officially declare me as dead.
They linked Fancy Pants' death with my disappearance. I will never be able to find a stallion capable of satisfying me, but that doesn't matter. Like a spider, I will keep feasting on them. Like a siren, I will keep luring them to their deaths.
Fleur De Lis is gone. I am Black Widow. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | The Truth | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 24: The Truth
"Huh?" was all Rarity could say.
Fleur De Lis just sat there, staring at Rarity in disgust. They just don't get it, she thought by herself. They keep making the same mistakes over and over again. Just like Celestia, they never got the message right. They never understood how this is supposed to end.
"Now you are just confirming me. You have no idea what I am talking about. How can something so noble and so positive as the Canterlot Elite be something worth despising, even when you are already a member of it? How can you hate the princesses, even though they do so much good for us? You keepers of harmony claim to know the truth. But as a matter of fact, you are all still blind to what is truly going on. Equestria has been in slavery ever since the alicorns came to Equestria without even realizing it. We traded one tyrant for, by now, three," the top model explained.
"That's so typical for you cultists. The few things the princesses did wrong are no excuse for all the horrible things you do and nothing you come up with can justify the actions of the cult. Princess Celestia's actions may sometimes be questionable, but they are all for a good reason and cause. You are just being irrational and ridiculous. What do you think will happen to all of you if you succeed and the demons come to power? Have you ever even wasted a thought on that?" Twilight asked.
Instantly, Fleur's expression switched to a sinister smile. Her eyes briefly wandered across the room before she refocused Twilight.
"Once again, you are completely underestimating us. We are well aware of what will happen. The alicorns will get killed and all ponies in Equestria will be slain. Nightmare Moon will rise and finally, revenge will be achieved. This is as it has to be and why I won't fight back if you want to kill me now. We all have to die. This is the destiny of this land, maybe even this entire world. Celestia the tyrant has to finally pay for what she had done," she replied.
"What has she ever done so wrong that you want to see her dead so badly?" Fluttershy wondered.
The eyes of the high priestess went wide open for a moment, only to let them roll and tilt her head in disappointment moments later.
"Really? You know so much. You have come this far, and you don't even know how it all started? I expected you would not be able to see much, but this is serious blindness you display here," she stated.
"Would you quit this act for one second and speak clearly?" Twilight insisted with an angered tone in her voice. "We give you the opportunity to explain yourself now, so put it to use or just be quiet and accept your end."
Again, Fleur could only smile sinisterly in amusement. She slowly got up and took a bold step towards the ice, knowing Fluttershy would instantly raise her scythe and get ready to strike. But she also knew that this ice wall was just starting to melt, so the yellow mare would not be able to hit her, yet.
"Alright. I will try to explain this to you, but I doubt you will believe it anyway. I suppose you know that Princess Luna was the one who created Nightmare Moon and therefore created demon-kind? Well, have you ever asked yourself how it could have come so far that she fell so deep into desperation and insanity that her feelings took a physical form?" Fleur wondered.
"What are you driving at?" Rarity asked back.
"A demi-goddess does not just randomly become insane and violent for no reason. Somepony drove her into isolation and madness. Somepony with so much power and authority, she actually had control over the Princess of the Night. The very same pony who fought my lords for over one thousand years is also their very origin. This is the reason why she has such a strong motivation to defeat Nightmare Moon and her children. Because it is her fault it ever even came this far. Your very own beloved Princess Celestia was the one who started the war and doomed this land to total destruction," the high priestess explained.
After she finished speaking, Fleur observed the reactions of the group. Just as she expected, their expressions did not change. They still looked determined and serious.
"You are right, Fleur. I do not believe it. You cultists are just making up any story you like to justify your actions. If all you got to share now are lies, I think I have had enough of your talking," Twilight started, then turned over to Rarity. "Can you do something to make the ice melt faster? The sooner we can kill their leader, the better."
"I think I still have a few rubies left. Let me check," Rarity requested and turned around to her saddlebag.
Suddenly, Fleur started laughing mildly. She even had to cover her mouth with her right front leg to suppress it.
"What's so funny?" Twilight wondered.
"Oh, nothing. You are so very right, as always. Nevermind this insane mare trapped in here, making up stories just to confuse you. Of course I am the leader. Because you understand so very much of how the cult works," Fleur responded in an ironic tone.
"Wait, you are not the one leading the cult? Hasn't it all started with you?" Fluttershy wondered.
"Oh no, no. Of course you are right! I obviously uncovered all this by myself and built up the cult on my own! Obviously, it is the task of the high priestess to lead the cult instead of holding sermons, training disciples, maintaining the cult's perspectives and being the only direct connection between the true leader and the cult! What are you thinking to ever doubt your omniscience? Shame on you!" the top model responded mockingly.
"Rarity, stop," Twilight ordered instantly, then focused Fleur in fury. "Alright. Then who is it? Who is the one behind all this?"
With yet another sinister smile, Fleur threw a short arrogant pose and turned around, scanning through the shelves.
"There is nothing you could do with your moral perspectives to get that kind of information out of me. But you are not the only one here who is fed up with this pointless conversation," she responded, then grabbed a potion bottle and opened it. "I perfectly well understand that I won't get out of here. This is what Nightmare Moon has decided. So, I take this means my time has finally come to ascend. You know, reaper blood is like good wine. The older, the better. This sample here is taken from an elder reaper. Should be quite pleasing to the palate."
Twilight's eyes instantly went wide. She tried to concentrate and cast a spell to break through the ice, but she still was in bad shape. She could not focus without quickly starting to cough up some blood again.
There was nothing she could do. Instead, she watched as Fluttershy and Rarity tried everything they could to break through and stop Fleur. But before they could get anywhere, it was already too late. Twilight watched as Fleur De Lis drank the last sip out of the bottle.
Still, Fluttershy kept on beating against the ice, cracking it more and more. If they could not get the informations they required, they at least could still prevent her from giving birth to yet another demon.
Fleur De Lis stood on the other end of the ice wall, grinning widely at the panic she unleashed between these three mares. Then, she lifted her focus to the ceiling.
"Nightmare Moon. Queen of demons. I am ready to leave this mortal shell and become your daughter. By your side, I will..." she started, but suddenly stopped and gained an expression of stun as she slowly started to breathe faster and faster and placed her right front leg on her chest. "What... what is this? This is not how it is supposed to feel. I... I am suffocating! Why... why is this ha-"
Before she could finish her sentence, a set of two small red horns suddenly bursted out through her eyes while she focused the ceiling.
"Oh, just be quiet, honey. You have been babbling for far too long," a new, female voice suddenly spoke.
Twilight could only stand there with a wide open mouth. She couldn't believe how fast this demon formed and bursted free.
Just seconds later, a set of two large red demon wings tore out of Fleur's back and she was ripped apart from the inside more and more. Fluttershy knew they had the best chances to defeat this demon while it was still just a newborn. But suddenly, she realized that Rarity stopped trying to help her and just stared inside the chamber. Twilight as well was just sitting there, doing nothing but stare.
The demon's head had completely busted free by now. Even Fluttershy had to admit that she had never seen something so beautiful, yet sinister at the same time in her life before. Words completely failed to even begin describing the sensation this demoness gave off. Red and black coat. Long red mane. Small devil horns on top of her head. Glowing red eyes, burning with lust. A long snake tongue. Everything still covered in the blood of her violent birth.
Fluttershy was capable of quickly snapping herself out of it, but both Rarity and Twilight kept staring. So she just continued hitting the ice with her scythe. By the time she finally broke through, the demoness had finished freeing herself and watched her patiently with a soft smile.
Suddenly, Fluttershy felt something grab her and pin her against the wall. She was unable to move and felt teeth digging into her torso. As she looked up, she was staring right at Despair.
The demoness had her usual vicious grin on her face while she held Fluttershy immobilized. But just a moment later, her expression switched to an annoyed one. She tilted her head and focused on the newborn demon in the storage room.
"Finally. There you are, Succubus," she stated.
The red and black demoness casually walked outside of the storage, next to Despair. She still had that soft, alluring smile on her face.
"So very sorry, sugar. Fleur was a bit more resilient than I anticipated," Succubus explained in a slow and incredibly seductive voice.
"Have to agree with that. What a fool. She never even considered that the love potion we gave her might be cursed. At least we can go on now," Despair spoke, then focused Twilight with an angry glance. "You sure took your time to get here. Don't you know an invitation when you see one? You have no idea how annoying it was to mislead that snow fairy friend of yours to make her keep chasing me for days."
"If we are expecting company, I guess we should get going," the red demoness suggested.
"No need to rush. By the time she gets here, we are long gone and these three will have recovered from your abilities. Quite impressive, I have to admit," Despair stated.
Succubus smiled again. Then she focused Rarity and began to lick her lips.
"In that case, perhaps we could have some fun with them before we go," she stated, then walked over, stroked through Rarity's mane and rubbed her nose against it. "Mmh, you smell nice, cutie."
"Sorry, but that will have to wait. I need you for a few tasks," Despair explained.
Instantly, Succubus allowed Rarity's mane to fall back in place and turned around.
"Alright," she spoke and started walking.
Fluttershy observed this all mutely. She had no idea what to do. Then, Despair's focus returned to her. One last angry glance was all she could remember before she was tossed into the wall on the other side of the room with such force it knocked her unconscious. ---
Three days later, the group found itself sitting in a hotel room close to Canterlot Castle. By now, they were reunited with Crystal Blossom. But the latest developments were more than disappointing. Twilight, Rarity and Fluttershy stared out of the window, observing the streets of the capital city. As usual, while the two unicorn mares had sad expressions, Fluttershy's remained blank.
"Nothing changed at all. Black Widow is dead and the cult just keeps spreading as if nothing happened," Rarity spoke.
"I was so sure we had it this time. It makes no sense. All our sources confirm that Black Widow was the leader of the cult. How could they trick us like that? From the very beginning, we were just doing exactly what Despair wanted us to do," Twilight stated in a depressed tone.
"It was all set up from the start," Crystal explained. "The fake assault on you, Twilight. The carefully placed clues to bring us to Manehattan and join up with Babs Seed. The intel of Black Widow being in Fillydelphia. Applejack's flight back to Ponyville and finally, the attack on the Canterlot BloodClaw church. Despair does not hesitate to sacrifice any number of cultists necessary to achieve her goals. You were right, Twilight. This is the most devious demon I have ever encountered. Even I did not realize she was just stalling me."
"We can't just give up like that. We have to do something. I'm surprised they haven't attacked Canterlot Castle or tried to assassinate the princesses by now. Who knows how much time we have left before they come up with that idea," Fluttershy stated.
"Well, without knowing who the true leader of the cult is, we can forget about that. Our only chance to find out more is gone now. We are stuck in a dead end... That's it, girls. The investigation is over... Whatever it was Despair wanted to achieve, she won," Twilight spoke in depression.
"My goodness, darling! Listen to yourself! It is so not like you to say such a thing!" Rarity commented, lightly shocked.
"Sorry... I'm just at my wits' end. No matter what I do, Despair always has an answer ready. Unless she decides to, for some reason, just give us the information we need, we won't be able to go on anymore," the purple mare responded.
For nearly half an hour, the group did not know what to say anymore. Everything seemed so pointless and useless. With Black Widow's death, they only cut a cord that could easily be mended by demons again. By now, it was likely that the BloodClaw Cult already appointed a new high priestess. What was the point of their whole infiltration? All it caused was the creation of a new demon.
Suddenly, they heard knocking at the door. Crystal and Fluttershy instantly shot up, summoned their scythes and went into battle stance. Then, they slowly approached the door and opened it, only to be welcomed by a male shriek.
"Ah! Don't hurt me! I'm sorry! I just wanted to deliver a letter, that's all!" a stallion pleaded.
Fluttershy was the first to let her scythe vanish and bowed down shortly.
"Sorry about that. We can't be too careful these days. You said you had mail for us?" the yellow mare asked.
"Eh... yes. Here. From a certain Applejack," the mailpony spoke and handed over a letter.
"Applejack?!" Twilight and Rarity shouted both at the same time and came rushing over.
After the mailpony said goodbye and they closed the door again, Fluttershy handed the letter to Twilight, who instantly tore it open and started to read out loudly.
"Dear friends,
I hope this letter doesn't reach you at a bad timing. First of all, I'd like to thank you all for everything you have done for me. I couldn't imagine any better friends in the entire world. I know we sometimes had our troubles and conflicts, but I value every moment we spent together. Be it in good times or bad times. So, sincerely from the bottom of my heart: Thank you.
Now, I reckon you are very anxious to hear an answer to my condition. Well, I have to say, talking to Derpy was a huge help. With her, I finally came to a conclusion about what to do with my life. I know, this might just about be killing you right now. But give me a moment to express myself, please. This is very serious to me and I am giving my darndest to express this now.
You all know that I am a family pony. Without family, I can't be. I need my roots, my stemma, my leaves and all those shiny apples hanging from each branch. But Derpy helped me to realize that this apple tree is not entirely burnt to the ground. Babs is still alive and so am I. Some seeds still exist, so a new tree can grow again. I decided to do what I do best. I want to plant and grow apples. Just this time, I will go quite a leap in a whole different direction when I say that.
I won't let the cult win with its attempt to erase my family. I will keep on living and chase after my little secret dream I never dared to tell anypony before. All my life long, I was so sunken in labor that I forgot to look for other things in life. Like love. I'm a little embarrassed to talk about it like that. But once this all is over, I will start looking for a stallion myself and start a family. Having children on my own was always a dream of me and with all that happened, I kind of forgot about it and saw it as impossible. But now, I made up my mind. Don't worry, friends. This Apple here will stick around.
Sincerely yours, Applejack."
Moments after Twilight finished reading, she and Rarity started smiling widely and tears of relief began to roll down their faces.
"Oh thank goodness," was all Rarity could say at that moment, wiping the tears out of her eyes.
"A very admirable goal and quite bold if you consider all the things she had been through and are still to come," Crystal commented. "You have a very strong friend, Twilight."
"'The most dependable pony in Equestria', as she claims it herself. Now she has proven it," the purple mare replied happily.
"Sometimes... Well I can't really say that I am jealous of you, Twilight and Rarity, since I can't feel jealousy anymore. But sometimes, I really envy you for still being able to feel and express yourselves. Hearing that must have felt so good..." Fluttershy commented.
"It did... But still, what do we do now?" Rarity wanted to know.
"Well... Canterlot is a dead end for us. There is nothing we can do here anymore and the longer we stay, the only thing that will change is that it gets more and more likely cultists will find us. We wiped Ponyville clear of cultists. The reapers, royal guards and police officers are still investigating. Maybe, until we get new information, we should just go home and be with Applejack for a while," Twilight suggested.
"Ponyville sure would be a lot safer for all of us," Fluttershy commented.
"I agree," Crystal spoke. "Even though we can't bring your friend any good news about the cult, you all at least get to take a breather after this chaos."
"Well, I guess we should start packing then," Twilight stated. ---
Ten minutes passed and the group was still busy packing. All of them were running short on supplies, so they would have to restock soon. Suddenly, Crystal Blossom turned towards the door of their hotel room and stared at it.
"Mentor..." Fluttershy spoke.
"You feel it, too?" Crystal asked.
"Yes..." the yellow mare responded.
"Oh no... not again..." Rarity commented.
The two reaper mares charged ahead, Crystal using her magic to open the door. But just as she finished, a long black arm shot inside the hotel room, grabbing Fluttershy and pinning her down.
She expected of the others to act now, but they all just stood perfectly still. Even Crystal Blossom stood idly, focusing the door with dreamy eyes and letting the scythe fall out of her mouth. As Fluttershy turned her head, she could see two demons: Slendermane and the one they had just seen before a few days ago.
Both entered casually, seemingly knowing that there would be no fight. While Slendermane just closed the door and stood in front of it to guard, the red and black demoness approached Fluttershy.
"Sorry for being so rough, sweetie. We just wanted to make sure you don't instantly jump to your usual behaviour. We are not here to hurt you or your friends. If you promise me to not attack, I will promise you that we won't do the same. And believe me, sugar. It will be very profitable for all of you," she offered.
Fluttershy just nodded mutely. Instantly, Slendermane let go of her and she got back up, still maintaining tension in her stance. What choice did she have but to agree? The pale demon alone was so powerful no reaper ever succeeded to defeat him in battle, and he was not alone.
"What have you done with my friends?" Fluttershy asked.
"Nothing, my pretty. I'm not the type of demon to hurt or kill. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Succubus, The Insatiable Lust. I am a demon of temptation, desires and animalic instincts. It is not my style to be crude, but I hope you won't mind if I have a little... taste of your friends," the demoness spoke, smiling seductively.
Instantly, Fluttershy summoned her scythe again and went in battle stance.
"Don't go near them," she threatened.
But as soon as she finished speaking, she felt the countless arms of Slendermane immobilizing her again.
"That won't be necessary, sweetheart," Succubus spoke, looking at Slendermane. "She will get it soon enough."
Slowly, the pale demon loosened his grip on Fluttershy, who just stood there, unable to even think of what to do now. She just watched as Succubus slowly circled around Twilight and eyed her up, making small pleased noises.
"What is... going on...?" the purple mare wondered in a sleepy tone.
Twilight had a strong blush on her face and constantly had her half-closed eyes glued on Succubus. Somehow, this demon seemed to be able to seduce ponies. Not just that, but reapers too, as Crystal was acting just the same way. But why am I unaffected, Fluttershy wondered. What should she do?
The only thing which came to her mind was using her Stare. She quickly tossed it at the two demons, then started charging over to her friends in order to grab them and escape. But while Slendermane was frozen solid, Succubus could grab the yellow mare, tossed her over and towered over her.
"You can resist my Stare?" Fluttershy wondered.
"As a matter of fact, you are the very reason why I was created in the first place. Your Stare is too potent. We needed a counter plan for it. So, with Despair's help, Queen Nightmare Moon created me, a demon with immense seductive abilities. You have to admit yourself that I look and smell otherworldly good," Succubus spoke slowly, then approached her left ear and started to whisper. "Just consider my seduction the demon-version of your Stare."
Immediately, Fluttershy punched her hard and got back on her legs. But, as usual, demons can not be harmed physically. Succubus just took it with a twisted sense of pleasure and smiled at her.
"I am unique and high ranked from birth. If you think you stand even the smallest chance against both of us at once, I can make the stakes even higher for you," Succubus spoke, then focused Twilight, Rarity and Crystal. "Ladies. Would you be so kind as to teach her what I mean by that?"
Surprisingly, they obeyed to the demoness' request. All three charged Fluttershy at once, pinning her against a wall by magic and Crystal even went so far as to hold her own scythe against Fluttershy's neck.
"Apprentice...? What am I doing? I can't tell..." Crystal commented.
"Is that finally enough demonstration for you? Or do I need to tell them to hurt themselves?" Succubus threatened in a tempting tone.
This was mindblowing. How could she do that? Her very presence alone was enough for others to fall under her seduction and do her bidding. The yellow mare finally came to realize that there was nothing she could do and hung her head.
"I surrender. What do you want?" she asked.
"There we go. You can let go of her now, my sweeties," Succubus ordered.
Moments later, Fluttershy fell to the ground and all three mares returned to the demoness. Then, Succubus sat to the ground, turned to Twilight and started caressing her chin while she stared deep into her eyes.
"Now that we got that settled, it is about time we get to business," Succubus explained.
"What business?" Fluttershy wondered.
"We all have desires. Things we crave. Your gorgeous little friend here desires nothing more than to find the leader of the BloodClaw Cult. But the only pony who knew where this leader could have been found is dead now. Well, as chance would have it, I was born out that very same mare who had said knowledge, which means I know everything she knew," the demoness responded.
"Yes... the leader... I need... to find..." Twilight commented dreamily.
By now, Succubus made Twilight embrace her and the demoness had her front legs running down her back while she kept sniffing her mane. Fluttershy had to fight a lot against her instincts to protect her friends, but there really was nothing she could do.
"What do you demand in return?" the yellow mare wondered. This caused Succubus to chuckle lightly.
"Nothing, honey. That is the beauty of lust and desires. Giving without expecting to receive. Receiving without expecting to give. I'm already taking everything I want right now," the demoness replied with an erotic undertone.
"But you are a demon. Why would you help us? What is your advantage in all this?" Fluttershy wondered.
"Now let that be our concerns, precious. I just happen to have solid evidence about the cult leader's location with me," Succubus spoke, then slowly licked down Twilight's neck with her long snake tongue before turning her focus to Slendermane. "Darling. Would you be so good as to give her the letter, please?"
The suited demon nodded and pulled a scroll out of his pocket. As he placed it in Fluttershy's front legs, she came to realize something that shocked her so much, even she became wide-eyed.
"The... royal seal? Only the royal family has access to it and it can not be copied," she commented.
"Exactly, sugar," Succubus responded.
Fluttershy swiftly broke the seal, unrolled the scroll and started reading. The letter seemed to be addressed to Black Widow.
"I am more than pleased to see you successfully spread the influence of the cult across the entirety of Equestria. I just received some intel confirming your work. Recruiting you has got to be the best decision I ever made. At this rate, it won't be long before our work will be complete. Your next goal will be to start turning minds around on a massive scale. I want the BloodClaw Cult advertised from its best side. By the end of the month, I hope to see at least one third of Equestria's population as disciples. You never failed me so far, so I expect you will be able to accomplish this as well."
"The royal family... that means..." Rarity spoke, still unable to think clearly.
"Yes, I think you are right, my dear," Succubus started while caressing Rarity's cheek. "One of your beloved princesses is the leader. Cadence, Luna, maybe even Celestia in one of her brilliant plans of mass manipulation. One of those three is the one behind all the massacre."
"That can't be..." Fluttershy commented.
"You hold the evidence in your very hooves, sweet heart. There is no doubt this seal is real. Even the paper and ink is from Canterlot Castle. Go analyze it if you wish. You will only find me confirmed," the demoness added.
While this realisation slowly sank in, Succubus got on her legs again and walked back to Slendermane.
"Our task is done here. I told you she would understand," she spoke to the pale demon.
With a nod, they both left the hotel room again, leaving behind four stunned mares, slowly coming back to their senses. |
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult | A New Era | Original Link:
Maledictum Insania 2: The BloodClaw Cult
By Nero Darkard (aka. NeroTheDarklord)
Chapter 25: A New Era
Two days passed and more than twenty reapers responded to Twilight's secret request to meet her in a hideout below the overhang of Canterlot Castle. The small cave had become rather crowded by now, but due to the silent nature of the reapers retained its quietness.
Twilight sat on the floor, her front legs shaking and staring to the ground with an expression full of mixed emotions. Her friends were gathered around her, trying to calm her. Still, they as well hardly knew what to say or do. They were all just waiting for results. Finally, Crystal Blossom returned with the scroll.
"I hate to admit it, but this demon spoke the truth. The seal is real and the parchment and ink are from the same supplier that delivers to Canterlot Castle," she explained.
Suddenly, Twilight pressed her eyes shut, ground her teeth, got up on her four legs and kicked the wall behind her as hard as she could. Needless to say, she hurt herself in the process and had to sit down again immediately. But while Twilight at least was able to express herself, Rarity could just stand there with wide open eyes.
"Why..." Twilight started in a desperate tone. "Why does it have to be this way... Why does it have to be one of them... Of all ponies..."
"I have no idea, Twilight," Fluttershy responded. "But what I do know is that we need to do something. Do you really want to go for it now?"
Twilight needed a few seconds to calm down and rethink her plan. But finally, while she still stared at the ground, she slowly shook her head.
"It has to end, Fluttershy. There is no way around it. We have to do this," the purple mare explained.
"We are ready whenever you are. Just give us the order," Crystal stated.
One more time, Twilight hesitated. Her glance wandered over to Rarity, who stared right back at her. She, too, looked very insecure and uneasy, but gave her friend a much saying nod. Then, the purple mare refocused Crystal Blossom.
"We have been waiting for their next meeting... It is now or never... Get in position and wait for my signal..." she ordered.
"As you command," Crystal responded.
All reapers except for Fluttershy started sneaking away. Everyone, pony and reaper alike, knew that Equestria's history would change forever tonight. They only had a few more hours to prepare and gather themselves. While Rarity tried to speak with Twilight and raise her spirits again, Fluttershy decided to meditate.
After about an hour, the yellow mare opened her eyes again and looked over to the entrance to the cave. The grey figure was standing there, staring at her from the distance as usual. Their glances met for only a few seconds before it disappeared again and Fluttershy returned to her meditation without saying a word. ---
Two horns began to glow. One white, the other blue. Sun and moon slowly exchanged their places and nighttime began in Equestria. After the act was completed, Celestia's and Luna's focus returned to Cadence. All three of them sat around a table with a map of Equestria, large piles of paper and several quills and ink pots on it. No royal guards were allowed to be in the room while they were discussing over Equestria's future. Instead, dozens were positioned all around the meeting room.
"So where were we?" Celestia wondered.
"We were talking about establishing a train connection to the Zebra Tribal Lands," Cadence reminded.
"Ah. Right. So our negotiations with the shamans are running into some difficulties. We have to ask every tribe individually and get them all to agree, since the rails would pass through all their territories. So far, we could only strike a deal with twelve tribes," Celestia continued.
"The biggest problem is that we require to know the individual cultural differences between each and every tribe. We must be careful where we place the rails to not disrupt the flow of energy in the land or disturb any spirits. We also must avoid to accidentally suggest the rails to be placed over sacred ground. While zebras are all in all very peaceful creatures, they would still feel insulted if we disregarded their traditions," Luna added.
"Hm, this is tricky. Do you think we can just ask every tribe for a map of their territory?" Cadence suggested.
"There are a few things they would not note down on the maps. They are rather secretive when it comes to the locations of spirit worshipping sites," Luna explained.
"Not to mention the trust issues with some of the tribes. You see, zebras are very religious. Equestria has no official form of religion, yet we are living demi-goddesses, ruling over this land. It confuses a few tribes and makes them unsure about our intentions," Celestia added.
"Well in that case, we first have to work on gaining their trust," Cadence suggested. "How about we hold a banquet and invite all shamans? Additionally, perhaps we should invite Lady Zecora and her family, too! I think if they hear how it is like in Equestria from another zebra, it might speed up the-"
Despite all the security and clear instructions to not let anypony disturb them, the door to the meeting room suddenly opened.
"Miss Sparkle, no! You can't enter right now!" one of the guards called, running after the purple mare.
It was already too late. Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy and Crystal Blossom just came walking in casually, aiming straight for the princesses.
"Ah! Twilight Sparkle, my star student! It is so good to see you. But I have to ask: What brings you here on a surprise visit?" Celestia greeted.
"Actually, you should know that we are having a meeting right now and that it should not be disturbed," Luna added with a bit of an upset expression.
"Sorry we burst in like that, but I have something really important to tell you that can't wait," the purple mare explained, maintaining a serious look on her face.
"What is it?" Cadence wondered.
The group came to a halt with several steps in front of the table. The royal guards peeked in the meeting room, unsure how to react. Slowly, Twilight's focus lowered to the ground.
"After months of investigation, we were finally able to locate the leader of the BloodClaw Cult," she spoke.
Instantly, Celestia's expression became serious as well. She got up from her seat and focused the group, ready to give an order.
"Where is the leader?" she asked.
By now, Twilight was staring at the floor. Celestia could not see her eyes anymore, which started to confuse her. She would have expected that Twilight would be very proud for solving this mystery. Quickly, the princess of the sun came to realize that something was very wrong.
"In this very room..." Twilight replied, then raised her right front leg and began to shout. "Now!"
Instantly, dozens of reapers bursted in from all directions. They broke through the windows, tackled the royal guards and rushed through the door or just jumped down from the ceiling. Not even a second later, they all surrounded the three alicorns with their scythes drawn.
"Wha... Twilight! What are you doing?!" Cadence shouted in shock.
"I could ask you the same thing," the purple mare responded.
Twilight lifted her head again, showing an extremely furious expression on her face. She could hardly contain her anger and started walking from left to right to find some form of relief.
"I can't believe it! I trusted you! All of you! Equestria trusted you! Why are you doing this?" she started shouting.
"Twilight! Calm yourself! What is going on here? Why are my own reapers threatening me?" Celestia asked, trying hard to maintain calmness.
"Apologies, my mistress," Crystal started. "But the evidence we gained strongly suggests that we can currently not trust any of you."
"Evidence? What evidence? Are you saying one of us is the cult leader?!" Luna wondered, constantly looking around.
Finally, Twilight stopped and used her magic to present the scroll. After the three princesses read through it, they all became wide-eyed and stared at each other.
"Is that saying enough for you?" Twilight asked. "One of you three betrayed Equestria and created the BloodClaw Cult. It all makes sense now. The royal family does not get cursed with the curse of secrets, so you are the only ponies even capable of sharing the secret about Nightmare Moon with the public. That also explains why we were so unsuccessful in rooting out the cult so far. Because once we present new facts or plans to you, one of you is always directly giving out orders to counter our plans! I'm so... I can't even put it in words! This is the biggest betrayal Equestria has ever witnessed!"
The three princesses kept on looking around. At Twilight, Rarity, the reapers and among each other. Finally, they refocused the purple mare.
"Twilight, I don't think any of us would do such a thing. There has to be an explanation for that letter!" Cadence tried to reason.
"There is only one explanation! It has to be one of you three! I can't tell who of you, but I won't rest until I figure it out! I'm still just so blown away in how much one of you betrayed us! After all we have done for you three!" the purple mare responded in fury.
"Please, Twilight! Don't do anything irrational! This is just what the cult and the demons want!" Luna requested.
"Oh, I'm very sure they are all laughing at us right now. It must be hilarious to see what I am forced to do. But no worries. I won't do them the favor of sentencing the wrong princess to her death. I swear, none of you will get out of here until we finally resolved this last mystery," Twilight spoke.
"You can't be serious! You honestly would be willing to kill one of us?!" Celestia shouted, not believing what she just heard.
"If this is what needs to be done to save Equestria, then it has to be. I know you three are very powerful, but I will do whatever I can to end this. I trusted all of you equally, but there is absolutely no way of telling who of you is the cult leader. I can't even be sure about you anymore, Princess Celestia," the purple mare replied.
"This is crazy! Twilight, come back to your senses! Don't you see what is going on here? We were fighting against the demons and the cult from the very beginning! Why would any of us suddenly turn against you? It makes no sense! We are innocent, Twilight! You have to believe me!" Cadence pleaded.
"Twilight... I'm starting to think they might be telling the truth. What if we are wrong?" Rarity wondered.
"Don't let them confuse you," Twilight started. "You saw the letter. You saw the patterns. The headquarter of the cult is here in Canterlot. Everything spread out from here. We are being watched on every step we take."
"Twilight Sparkle... My loyal student... I don't have an explanation for how this all fits together like this. But I can assure you, none of us has any direct connection to the cult!" Celestia tried to reason.
"Oh yeah? And what do you expect me to do now? Let you all go? I can't risk that. The leader of the cult must be extremely good in manipulating others. That's the only way it could have ever come this far. If its not one of you three, who else could it possibly be?" the purple mare asked.
For several seconds, it became silent in the meeting room. Slowly, doubt started to build up even among the three princesses, as they started staring at each other longer and longer.
"Well, how about somepony who is always overlooked? Somepony who clearly deserves more than he gets," a male voice suddenly started speaking from behind Twilight.
"You?!" Rarity shouted, as she was the first to turn around.
All eyes turned towards the open door. They saw Prince Blueblood, wearing royal garments in the style of the BloodClaw robes. Sanguine with three black claw marks. He stood there with an arrogant smile on his face, watching the scenery in delight.
"No way..." was all Twilight could say at that moment.
The reapers instantly aimed to turn around and disable the prince. But as they tried to move, they realized they were being held by the royal guards they had pinned down. They grinned at the reapers sinisterly, then suddenly turned into black, abstract monsters with glowing red eyes and encased them in black blades.
Twilight and Rarity as well were about to jump into battle. But before they could even move, they noticed curved blades being placed on their throats. Despair was standing just behind them, grinning maliciously in victory. Not even the alicorns could do anything, as they suddenly found themselves wrapped in countless long black arms. Slendermane had just appeared and disabled them as well.
Just like before, it took a mere second to turn the situation upside down. The only pony still able to move freely was the prince, who casually walked into the meeting room and aimed for the alicorns.
"I have to say, that worked out way better than I expected. Well done, Despair," he spoke.
"Thank you, master," the demoness replied.
"Master?!" Twilight and Rarity spoke out loudly in disbelief.
"What is going on, Blueblood?" Celestia asked in anger.
"Oh. Auntie. Really now. Did you really not see this coming?" Blueblood spoke in a cocky tone, tilting his head from left to right.
"So it is true? You are the one behind the cult?!" Luna wondered.
"Well, lets see: I wear the colors of the cult, demons follow my command, I got access to the royal seal. Yes, I am pretty sure that it is me," the white stallion spoke, his tone getting even more cocky now.
"You traitor!" Cadence shouted. "You are one of us! A member of the royal family! How could you side with the demons?!"
"Oh, ho, ho! I'm not siding with these disgusting things. Yuck! No. I am just commanding them!" Blueblood spoke, grinning sinisterly.
"Commanding?! How? You can't command demons! Nopony can!" Twilight shouted.
"Yes you can. With this thing here," Blueblood spoke and used his magic to open a button on his garments.
He revealed a golden necklace around his neck, displaying a large red gem in the shape of an eye. As soon as it was revealed, it started looking around. As it focused Twilight, she could feel a chill wandering down her spine, as if she was being watched by something very mighty and sinister. Another shiver followed as she came to realize that she knew what this object was. She had read about it in the nameless book.
"That is... That is Nightmare's Eye! How did you get that?!" the purple mare shouted.
"Take a wild guess," Despair commented with a big grin.
Twilight slowly turned her head around to the demoness, then refocused Blueblood. It was all coming together now. Despair knew that she read the nameless book. Perhaps she was even responsible that Twilight gained it in the first place. All the time, Despair made her go through all these things on purpose so she could become a witness and explain things. All solely for this very moment, to increase the pressure on the princesses.
"You should not have left me out, auntie," Blueblood started. "Did you really think I would not find out about Maledictum Insania, the demons and your secret war against them sooner or later? What did you expect me to react like when I discover you kept me small, powerless and unimportant the whole time on purpose? I struck a deal with the demons. A member of the royal family turning against Equestria. That has never happened before. I could provide them ways they never had before. With my help, they would get what they always wanted. As long as they would serve me, Equestria would become their land. So in return for helping them, I demanded their entourage. Since we both depend on each other for this to work and to make sure there is no room for betrayal from both sides, they gave me this necklace. As long as I wear it, I can't be harmed by any demon and they have to follow my every command."
"But why? Why did you do all this? Do you have any idea how many ponies have died because of you?!" Celestia wondered.
"That is only the start, auntie. Look outside the window. You as well, Twilight Sparkle. Slendermane, Despair: Let go of them," Blueblood commanded.
Both demons instantly obeyed. With a furious expression and a bit of hesitation, Twilight and Celestia went over to the window and looked down to Canterlot.
Twilight's expression instantly turned into one of shock. There was a small radiantly green demon in the middle of the marketplace, just sitting there and playing by itself. Next to it was a red and black demoness, apparently singing to draw dozens of curious ponies around them.
"You know these demons, don't you Twilight? Then explain to my auntie what this means," Blueblood commanded
The purple mare gulped hard. Then she focused her mentor.
"Those are Toxica and Succubus. Toxica is the one responsible for Manehattan," Twilight stated.
Celestia's eyes went wide open. Her focus jumped back to Blueblood, who just kept grinning arrogantly the whole time.
"I just need to say a word and all ponies in Canterlot die within seconds. Another command and all cultists and demons stationed in the cities all across Equestria start the biggest pony holocaust in the entire history of this land. I'm very willing to do this, but it doesn't have to be. I would prefer to rule over a big and well populated kingdom over an empty one," the white stallion explained.
"So this is what all this is about. You want the throne," Celestia analyzed with an angry expression.
"No. I want what I rightfully deserve!" Blueblood replied, now shouting. "I am a prince! A prince! I am at the same level as you, yet I am treated like some commoner! I am nothing more but a diplomat to you! I never had any saying in anything! You three keep me out of all your meetings and decisions! Do you have any idea how degrading that is? To be born with the title and rights of royalty, yet being treated like a subject? But worst of all, and this is nothing short of an insult, is that I am mortal! Look at me, auntie! A direct member of the royal family who is not an alicorn! What do you think I am? Scum like this Shining Armor guy who married into our family?"
"Don't you dare to speak about my husband this way, Blueblood!" Cadence shouted in fury.
"Shut up, Cadence. I will get to you soon enough," the corrupt prince responded.
"You never did anything to deserve such powers or rights, nephew! You also never showed any interest in your royal duties either! I can't even put in words how disappointed I am that you come to me now with an entire army, blackmailing me instead of telling me this sooner! There is nothing I can change about you being mortal anyway!" Celestia spoke angrily.
"Oh yes. Yes you can. All three of you actually. I know alicorns have a lot of power and possibilities. I also know you earned your abilities, so you can lose them again. I will stand through this indignity not another day longer! It will all be mine now! Everything belongs to me, as it is my birthright! Here is my offer: You three give me your powers, your immortality and the sole right to rule over Equestria. If you refuse... Well you already heard what I am capable of! The choice is yours. What is more important? Your oh so precious crowns, or the lives of millions?" Blueblood threatened.
"You can not possibly be serious! Do you even understand what you are asking for right now?!" Rarity wondered in complete shock.
"Yes, yes I am pretty sure I am aware of what I am doing. And I am not going to ask again. So. What will it be, you three? Keeping your powers and having a dead kingdom, or giving up immortality and saving everypony else?" Blueblood repeated.
Celestia, Luna and Cadence became silent. They looked at each other, all of them having the same kind of fearful expression. But with every second that passed, Blueblood's expression became more and more annoyed.
"I am not very patient today. If you can't decide, I guess I will just have to destroy Canterlot first to make you think faster," he stated and started lifting his right front leg.
"No! Stop!" Celestia shouted.
"Then what is it? Do we have a deal or not?" the white stallion asked.
Again, Celestia focused Luna and Cadence. They both just stared back, not knowing what to do. Slowly, Celestia let her head hanging and closed her eyes.
"Alright. I give up the throne. You can have my magic," she agreed.
"Princess Celestia, no!" Twilight shouted, but instantly got her mouth covered by Despair.
"That's a start, but not what I asked for," Blueblood spoke, then focused the other two princesses. "Cadence, Luna. Don't make me repeat myself."
Both looked at each other, then focused Celestia who still had her head hanging in guilt. There was nothing they could do. If they wouldn't agree as well, it would mean the end of everything they had been trying to protect.
"Fine. You shall have my dark powers. I hope they destroy you," Luna agreed unwillingly.
"I don't care if I lose my magical abilities as long as I keep my friends and family. But I swear, Blueblood. This won't end here," Cadence added.
"We will see about that. Now, let's finally get this over with. And don't forget: One suspicious move, and Canterlot dies," the white stallion spoke and got in position.
Slendermane loosened his grip on Cadence and Luna, allowing them to get up and stand next to Celestia. Twilight tried to shout and beg them to not agree to this. But Despair wouldn't allow her to scream. By now, she towered over the purple mare, pinning her to the ground and covering her mouth while grinning widely. Rarity as well found herself unable to react in any form. She just stood there with a blade against her throat, knowing that if she moved just a muscle or spoke a word, the demoness might kill her.
Celestia still had her head hanging. She glanced up to Cadence and Luna with an expression full of guilt.
"I'm sorry..." she spoke lowly.
"It's okay. We don't have a choice in this," Cadence replied.
"We have overcome everything so far, sister. We will find a way this time as well," Luna agreed.
"Enough with the chit-chat!" Blueblood shouted.
One last time, Celestia threw an angry glance at her nephew, still not believing he made her do this. Then she closed her eyes and her horn began to glow, followed by Luna and Cadence doing the same.
Arcane magic filled the room. The auras of these three mares kept growing increasingly stronger. Suddenly, all three turned into white outlines and three strong magic beams hit Prince Blueblood, who then was engulfed in light himself. All the unleashed arcane magic escaped out of the three princesses and gathered around Blueblood.
Their silhouettes started to change. Celestia, Luna and Cadence slowly began to shrink while Blueblood grew bigger and bigger. The sight made Twilight try to scream and beg them to stop, but she couldn't utter a word.
Finally, the three mares stopped glowing. Instead of large ponies, there now were three alicorns no bigger than regular ponies. The magic in their manes was gone had changed in length and color. Celestia's had turned into a soft pink, Luna's into a bright blue and Cadence's lost in shine.
Blueblood kept on growing, overflowing with magic. As the brightness faded, it revealed a stallion even a bit bigger than Celestia used to be just moments ago. He had a long flowing blonde mane and tail, large white wings and a very long white horn. He got his wish. Prince Blueblood had turned into an alicorn.
"Hmm. This feels good. I could get used to that," he stated arrogantly.
Celestia, Luna and Cadence focused him with furious expressions. He, however, just smiled back at them sinisterly.
"Well, now you have run out of usefulness to me. Time to test my new powers," he stated, letting his eyes turn white and aiming his horn at the three mares.
"Master! Hold on a moment!" Despair shouted suddenly, jumping up and running in front of the newly formed alicorn.
"What is it now, Despair?" he wondered while lifting his head again and letting his eyes turn back to light blue.
"I strongly suggest you to not kill them right now," the demoness spoke, then turned around to grin at the fallen alicorns sinisterly. "We still have plans for them, especially Celestia."
"Is that so?" Blueblood questioned and started grinning himself. "Well I don't want to spoil the fun for you."
Now not being held anymore, Twilight got back on her legs and ran over to her mentor. Rarity and Fluttershy immediately joined in as well.
"Princess... what have you done... What have I done... I'm... I'm so sorry... I didn't mean for-" the purple mare spoke in guilt.
"Shhh. It's alright Twilight. This is not your fault. He left us no option," Celestia replied.
"Enough of this. Now that I am the only one ruling over Equestria and I have more power than anypony ever had, I suppose the title of a prince is no longer good enough for me. From this day forth until the end of time, you shall call me King Blueblood!" the white alicorn stallion ordered.
"All I will call you is traitor!" Luna shouted.
"Hah. Normally, I would execute you for a statement like that. But I suppose I will be generous and just banish the three of you from Equestria, along with the keepers of harmony and all reapers," Blueblood declared.
"Nephew..." Celestia started, focusing the corrupted king in fury. "This... is... not... over."
Blueblood just grinned back, looking down on those puny creatures below him.
"We will see about that, won't we? Now get out of my kingdom before I change my mind," he stated.
Slowly, the three fallen alicorns went out of the meeting room, closely followed by Twilight, Rarity and the reapers. Suddenly, one of the skin-walkers reached out a claw and blocked the fashion diva in her path.
"Oh. One more thing, Miss Rarity," Blueblood suddenly announced.
Rarity's eyes went wide open in fear as she slowly turned around.
"You don't honestly expect me to let you get away with insulting me and covering me in cake as you did on the Grand Galloping Gala a few years ago, do you?" he stated with an arrogant smile.
After he finished speaking, his eyes jumped behind the fashion diva and he gave an ordering nod. As she turned around to look who was there, she was staring right at Toxica.
The demoness was hovering in front of her, just inches away from her face and grinning widely. Before Rarity could even react, she was given a short kiss on the lips.
Instantly, Rarity started gagging, coughing and spitting in disgust. Toxica, though, just covered her mouth with her right front leg, giggled and flew next to Despair and Slendermane.
"Ugh! What was that?! Disgusting! That tasted horrible!" Rarity complained while wiping her mouth clean.
"Just a little farewell gift. Now get out of my sight," Blueblood spoke.
"Oh, you are so going to get it for that!" Rarity announced, then ran after the rest of her friends. ---
While they all fled out of Canterlot Castle, loud cheering could be heard from the city. Cultists were everywhere on the streets and celebrating. It seemed like they already knew of their victory.
Simultaneously, red clouds started to rise all over the land. With Blueblood now being in control of Equestria, the demons could open their strongholds and just march out wherever they wanted to. Nothing was left to hold them back anymore.
"Oh no... What should we do now? This is the worst thing that ever happened..." Rarity wondered while running.
"I failed... I couldn't stop it... I'm so sorry... I'm so, so sorry... I should have never doubted any of you," Twilight spoke, bordering to break out in tears while she focused the three former princesses of Equestria.
"You are not responsible, Twilight Sparkle," Luna assured. "But we need to get out of here while we still have the chance. Where do we go?"
"The Crystal Empire. It is not part of Equestria, contains a powerful protective magic and all our friends and family members are there. Crystal ponies are immune to Maledictum Insania, so it should be fairly safe," Cadence suggested.
"Sounds good," Celestia agreed.
Twilight nodded in understanding as well, then focused her reaper friends.
"Fluttershy, Crystal: I need you to warn as many reapers as possible. We need to get Applejack and Derpy to the empire as quickly and silently as possible," she requested.
"We are on it," Crystal responded and started flying away.
So they all ran for their lives while countless demons slowly spread across the land. Seeing them around would soon become a normal thing for the terrified subjects and a lot was certain to change to the worse. A new era of horror and corruption just dawned and none of the keepers of harmony, reapers or former princesses had any idea what the future would hold. ---
In Canterlot Castle, King Blueblood just sat down on his throne and started getting comfortable with the feeling of being in charge for the entirety of Equestria. Already, he began to deeply relish his position. Never would he have imagined that things would go so smoothly. But this is how things turn out when you let demons do the job. They are very good servants, he thought by himself.
"The throne suits you, master!" Toxica commented while bouncing in place.
"I think so, too," Blueblood responded with a smile. "So? What are you doing now?"
"Now..." Despair started, grinning widely.
She opened the mouth in her left front leg, exposing a long tongue holding a necklace. The Alicorn Amulet.
"Now, it is time to keep a promise." |
Iron Mare | pre | "Ready?" Spitfire said.
Twilight nodded as Spitfire stepped the armor back a couple feet from Hooves, Hooves watching as the armor's feet began emitting smoke and flame that began rising the armor slowly up to the ground.
"Go girls.... Be free...." Hooves said, turning his gaze back to the midday sun and closing his eyes.
The two mares began soaring through the sky, soaring far from the caves, from their captors, and from their friend, as they began soaring to their home, Equestria, or to any town they can find to help them get there. |
Iron Mare | Soaring to Freedom | But that lasted about 15 seconds before the suit began sputtering crazily, Twilight screaming and doing her best to help Spitfire keep the suit together before an arm fell off, followed by another one.
"AH! D-Don't let go!" Twilight screamed.
"What do you think I'm trying to do??? If I let go I die!!!" Spitfire shouted to Twilight, both mares struggling to keep the suit together as long as they could.
The suit lost a leg, causing Spitfire's to dangle out into the air as she screamed, looking down and bringing that leg back into the suit, only for the other leg to fall out, causing her to do the same with her other leg.
The two mares screamed out and held onto each other's hooves, but Spitfire began weakening her grip as she lowered herself closer to the bottom.
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING???" Twilight screamed.
"One of us needs to get out of here!!! One of us needs to get back to Equestria! And that somepony is going to be YOU!" Spitfire screamed, the armor cracking and falling apart.
"No! I'm not letting you die in the desert!" Twilight screamed, tightening her grip on Spitfire's hoof, not wanting to let the mare go.
"Just go! Send a team after me to find me if you want, but YOU need to get out of her!" Spitfire screamed back, "Twilight, just g-"
The armor cracked in half, sending Spitfire flying back far to the ground as Twilight floated still before slowly falling to the ground.
"NOOOOOO!!!!!!" Twilight screamed as she saw Spitfire's part of the armor fly far away, but only for her vision to be obscured by large dunes of sand before her vision went black upon impact with the ground.
Twilight groaned as she regained consciousness, looking around her to see the armor sprawled out across the desert sand, with Spitfire nowhere in sight.
Twilight took a deep breath before shouting Spitfire's name out as loud as she could muster, but it wasn't very loud as she felt a sharp pain in her side as she screamed. She groaned louder as she stood up to her legs, looking around for any sign of Spitfire, but seeing nothing but sand for miles, with mountains behind her.
She began sobbing quietly as she began to walk towards the setting sun, each step sending sharp pains through her body, but she was determined to find Spitfire and return to Equestria with her, wanting to fulfill Hoove's dying wish.
Hours. At least, that's how long it felt for Twilight as she continued limping through the desert under the blistering sun, which was slowly setting. But she kept on going, even if she was practically dragging herself across the sand.
She began thinking she was going insane, as she began hearing whirring sounds coming from behind her that sounded incredibly similar to her company's....
Twilight turned around and looked to the sky, wanting to confirm what the noise was, only for her eyes to widen upon the sight of her company's very own helicarriage soaring through the sky, flying closer and closer to her.
Twilight couldn't believe her eyes, but didn't want this opportunity to be gone as she began waving her arms around like a madstallion, screaming at the top of her lungs. And to Twilight's relief, the helicarriage began hovering over her, the sight of stallions and mares dressed in Equestrian Army uniforms was making her eyes well with tears of joy as they helped her get tied to a rope and carried up to the helicarrier, where she was greeted with a large bottle of water and a large plate with hayburgers, fries and regular fries, which she began devouring as soon as she finished the entire bottle of water.
As she ate she began shouting at the soldiers about Spitfire, and where to find her.
"WE CAME HERE TO GET YOU!" A soldier shouted over the sound of the helicarriage's blades.
"BUT SHE'S STILL OUT THERE!!! WE CAN'T LET HER DIE!!!! PLEASE!!! LOOK FOR HER!!!!" Twilight shouted back to the soldier, who looked to the other soldiers, all of them nodding.
"OKAY! WE'LL TAKE ONE GIANT LOOP AROUND, BUT WE'LL HAVE TO RETURN TO BASE TO REFUEL! I'M SORRY! BUT WE CAN'T BE OUT HERE FOREVER!" The soldier said.
Twilight returned to the food, relieved they were going to be looking for Spitfire, and began praying to Faust that they would be able to find her. She felt something on her as she looked back to see a medical team checking out her wing stubs and her horn stub.
When Twilight finished her last bite of hay she realized again just how exhausted she was, and fell on her side on the helicarrier's floor, the shouts and speech of the soldiers lost to her ears as she could hear nothing, her consciousness fading until she could also see nothing but black.
She woke up in a white room, laying down in a bed and hooked up to a IV bag, a small table next to her with a small platter. On it was a small note that read 'We know you'll be well' on it, with hay and fries on it.
She looked to the other side of the room to see the sleeping figures of her friends on the floor, Rainbow Dash taking up pretty much the entirety of the small couch, barely leaving any room and forcing the others onto the floor outside of Rarity, who is doing her best to squeeze herself on the couch, she probably put up a fit at the thought of having to sleep on the floor.
Twilight began giggling softly at the thought of Rarity arguing with the other girls over sleeping on the floor, which caused Rainbow to stir in her sleep until she woke up.
"Huh? Wha? H-Hey girls! Girls! She's up!!!" Rainbow screamed upon turning to see Twilight, who was already welling with tears as the others woke.
"TWILIGHT!!!" All of them cried as all of them got up and jumped on top of her, hugging her tightly as she hugged them all back.
"Girls!!! Girls! Oh, I've missed you all so much!" Twilight cried out, sobbing slightly.
Twilight then noticed something. Something..... Odd.
"G-Girls?" Twilight said, "W-Where's Pinkie Pie?"
"We have much to tell you, my student," Twilight turned to see Celestia, smiling with tears in her eyes as she watched the five friends, "and we will answer whatever questions you have."
"Where's Pinkie Pie?" Twilight asked again.
All of their smiles faded into frowns as they lowered their heads.
"Not to long after ya disappeared.... Pinkie.... She also disappeared...." Applejack said.
"W-What?" Twilight responded.
"It's true," Rainbow said, her ears drooping, "we've been looking everywhere for her... But it's like she just disappeared off the face of Equus!"
"P-Pinkie...." Twilight said, trailing off as she wondered where her friend could be.
"Do not worry, my student. We will be looking for her until she is found. We will not rest." Celestia said.
Twilight nodded and opened her mouth to speak again, "Have you sent in more teams to look for Spitfire?"
Celestia's ears drooped as she looked down, turning away from her student until her mane covered her face, "We.... We could not find her...."
Twilight looked down, more tears welling in her eyes as she sniffed loudly. Fluttershy handed her a tissue and she took it graciously, blowing her nose before her head perked up.
"Celestia?" Twilight said, looking up to her teacher, who was now looking back to her.
"Yes, my student?"
"Call in a press meeting, for today. And please call in the Council." |
Iron Mare | Back Home | Celestia was hesitant to Twilight's request, but managed to call in a press meeting, but the Council would not attend not to Twilight's surprise.
"What are you doing my student?" Celestia asked Twilight as she watched her student rush to the desk to sign the paperwork for her to be let out.
"Celestia, I have an important announcement to make to the public of Equestria," Twilight said, finishing the paperwork and quickly trotting to the door, her friends right behind her along with Celestia, "and no matter what the Council says, it's going to happen."
Twilight saw the chariot outside that was waiting for Celestia to arrive, two pegasus stallions standing impatiently at the front of the chariot. Twilight stepped inside the chariot with Celestia, pretty much having to drag her friends inside the royal chariot as Twilight instructed the pegasus stallions to head to Town Square for the press meeting.
"Twilight? Why are ya so jumpy?" Applejack asked her friend.
"Applejack, there's something I need to do. And I need to do it now. I don't care what the Council says, it's going to happen." Twilight said, looking down to the streets of Ponyville below.
"What is it?" Rainbow asked.
".... Something I should have done a long time ago, Rainbow."
"It doesn't have to do with a blue thing, does it?" Rainbow asked, tapping her hooves together and looking to the side nervously as Twilight rose one of her eyebrows and turned to stare at the rainbow colored mare.
"Uh... No? Why would you ask that?" Twilight asked.
"N-No reason! I don't even know why I mentioned a blue thing! Oh wait, is that the time??? Oh well, gotta run!" Rainbow then flew off the chariot, Twilight and her friends watching their rainbow colored friend fly away at a speed that they never knew Rainbow could go after just taking off.
"Oh my... I wonder what's going on with her." Rarity said.
"I don't know... But don't worry girls, we'll figure it out." Twilight replied, keeping her eyes still at the horizon where Rainbow flew towards.
Twilight trotted to the Town Square after she stepped out of the chariot, her friends and Celestia following her, but she barely made it up the stairs before she was jumped by another one of her friends, Moondancer.
"Twilight!!! Oh sweet Faust you're safe!!!" Moondance hugged Twilight tight enough to nearly crush her ribs as Twilight hugged her back.
"It's fine Moondancer, I'm back now. And I'm not going anywhere." Twilight said as the two broke the hug, Moondancer sniffing quietly and nodding, lifting her glasses and wiping her eyes.
"It's just... After Pinkie disappeared-"
"I know, Moondancer, I know...." Twilight said, smiling softly and putting her hoof on her friend's shoulder.
Moondancer nodded her head lightly before speaking, "They're inside, waiting for you."
Twilight nodded and walked inside with her friends, her legs beginning to shake more and more as she approached the podium. She stood straight at the podium when she reached it, seeing her friends and Celestia at the back.
Twilight stared at the crowd, the mass of ponies with cameras and notebooks in their magic grasp or in their hooves, wearing the hoof braces Twilight made to make grasping everyday objects easier, each of them asking Twilight a plethora of questions. Seeing the ponies wearing her companies' hoof braces made Twilight's nervousness seem to...... Fade. As she saw ponies using the real future, making a small smile form on her face as she spoke.
"Mares and gentlecolts, I have come here today to tell you that you can all put your worries away... I am here. And I'm fine. And I come here also with a very important announcement that I hope the Council will understand," Twilight said, the newsponies sighing in relief before they turn their attention back to Twilight again, "Effective immediately, as in now and forever, Sparkle Industries is closing it's weapons division and will become a company that is solely focused on the improvement of the personal lives of ponies across Equestria."
The entire room fell into an uproar as soon as Twilight had said her weapons division would end, the newsponies flashing their cameras, writing in their notebooks, pointing their microphones to her face as they shout even more questions her way.
Celestia quickly trotted to Twilight and quickly used her magic to teleport Twilight out of the room, to the Royal Thrones in the Canterlot Royal Castle.
"Twilight! What was that??" Celestia said filled with shock as she paced back and forth.
"I'm sorry Celestia, but I cannot allow Sparkle Industries to continue being the war weapon market capital of Equestria," Twilight said, lowering her ears, "I can't."
Celestia stopped pacing, looking to Twilight with worry in her eyes, surprising Twilight as she thought the worry would be replaced with fury instead. She then felt Celestia pull Twilight into a hug, Twilight smiling softly and hugging her teacher back.
"I understand my student," Celestia said, "the Council obviously won't be happy. And will most likely brush your statement off."
"Celestia," Twilight said, breaking the hug, "I know they will. But I'd like to see the Council try to stop me from fixing what was wronged."
Celestia looked down to her student, smiling softly but still speaking with concern. "No matter what the Council says, my faithful student, I will remain at your side."
Twilight smiled and nodded softly, hugging Celestia again as she wiped her eyes as Celestia sighed tiredly, closing her eyes and likely thinking of the multiple scenarios that the confrontation with the Council will go after what Twilight did, each of the scenarios ending with the Council either forcing Twilight to make weapons, or the Council stealing Sparkle Industries from Twilight and banishing her from Canterlot, Ponyville and all Sparkle Industries HQs.
The thought of her student forced away from the very company she worked to raise made Celestia grit her teeth in anger, but she had to keep her anger inside as she knew she, Luna, Cadence, Shining Armor and Twilight would be called in by the Council for Twilight's actions.
And, not to Celestia and Twilight's surprise, a Royal Guard entered the throne room, panting heavily as if he had been searching for them for much time, and telling them the Council demands their presence in the usual conference room.
Twilight and her teacher shared one more glance to each other, their eyes making the promise to not let the Council have their way. Or at least not Flur, the unicorn pony of the Council.
Twilight, Luna, Shining Armor, Cadence and Celestia could do nothing but look upward to the large podium, the enraged unicorn, Flur de Lis, practically leaning her entire body over the stand to look down to Twilight, shouting to her about the purple mare as she turned from her normal light shade of pink to a shade of red that made Twilight compare Flur more to a ripe apple from Applejack's farm than the elegant and pink unicorn noble she was meant to be.
The meeting had started out calm, with the earth pony, Blue Aer, and the pegasus, Sky Cluster, both looking to Twilight with somewhat of a light in their eyes, while Flur de Lis looked down to Twilight with a calm face that the Council always has when you first glance to them, but her calm demeanor quickly changed to one of impatience as Twilight kept stating that her word was what was going to happen, and her impatience quickly turned into anger as Twilight still wouldn't budge from Flur's attempts to get Twilight to go on the air and take back her statement.
The other ponies in the room couldn't stand watching Twilight feel the fury of Flur's anger, Celestia and Shining especially as Shining even grit his teeth and swore to the unicorn quietly under his breath.
After Flur got done with her long vent of anger, she took in a large breath, waited a few heartbeats, and then let it go before doing the same thing multiple times before her coat went back to it's natural pink color. She rose her hooves up and began straightening the random tufts of her disheveled mane that were pointing into crazy directions. As she finished she cleared her throat, the other two Council members lowering their heads in embarrassment.
"So," Flur began, "do we have an understanding, Ms. Sparkle?"
"No." Twilight spoke nearly immediately after Flur had finished her last name, Flur's eyes flashing with rage once more as her coat nearly turned bright red as well. But she managed to keep her calm, taking deep breaths before she spoke.
"Ms. Sparkle... The Council has been gracious enough to allow you to continue making personal items along with the war machines we ask for that our troops can use to go against our enemies." Flur said, "Why do you wish to just stomp on our generosity and go against us?"
"Because what we're doing isn't right. Several mares and stallions died the day I was foalnapped. And they all died from the weapons that I created. Weapons that I allowed to be manufactured and sold to the military. And I'm putting an end to it." Twilight responded, furrowing her brow and keeping her confident stance, meanwhile her insides felt like it was filled with enough butterflies to make Fluttershy look like Pinkie Pie.
Flur was quiet, while the other Council members softly nodded their heads, small smiles on their faces as Shining Armor walked up to the stand.
"But my sister will not leave Equestria's protectors completely vulnerable, her company will still work on other nonlethal projects that can help our military still defend itself from any attackers." Shining said, Flur's anger now directed to him and his sister.
Flur then sighed and sat back in her chair, looking down to the group then as she brought her hooves together, trying to look as civilised as her fury filled eyes looked angry. She took a long while before speaking, so long that Twilight began wondering if her silence was just a sign for her and everypony else to get the buck out. "Very well," she eventually said, "I can allow this. But," she leaned over again, looking directly to Twilight with a look that could kill the purple mare if looks could actually kill, "if our home, if our Equestria, is ever in any danger of being overthrown? Then the blame will be on you as we all are forced to work for Tirek."
Twilight slightly winced at the mention of Tirek's name, but she was quickly waved out by Flur.
"Now leave. Go prepare your 'nonlethal' weaponry for our military. And Shining? I do hope you and your department can find our little problem soon, or I will have to replace you with a stallion who can." Flur said, Shining then looking down, causing Twilight to wonder what exactly she meant. What problem?
They all left the room, Celestia, Luna and Cadence about to congratulate Twilight before she turned to her brother.
"What did she mean by 'problem', big brother?" Twilight asked.
Shining then grew visibly nervous, looking to Celestia, Luna and Cadence, who all grew nervous expressions on their faces as well.
"Well... It's, uh..." Shining began, finding himself having a hard time finding the right words to describe the problem, "It's just somepony that has been causing trouble for a bit."
"What kind of trouble?"
"Uh... Just foalnapping... T-That's it." Shining said, Cadence walking to him and putting her hoof on his shoulder. "R-Right. I should get back to my station. Gotta get the men up and ready to head out and search again."
Twilight and Shining brought each other close for a tight hug before the two let go, Shining and Cadence walking off, but Cadence stopped for a second to speak to Twilight. "I know that you'll be able to keep us safe, Twilight. You always have."
Twilight nodded softly and watched Cadence and Shining walk off until they had disappeared from a turn in the hallway.
"So, my student," Celestia spoke, getting Twilight's attention, "what nonlethal weaponry do you plan on creating to protect us?"
"Well I've been thinking of creating some kind of beam of energy that doesn't kill, it just knocks somepony backwards. I've been thinking of ways to do it for a while now, and I think I've got just the way to do it." Twilight said.
Celestia and Luna put their hooves on Twilight's shoulders, both making a soft smile as Luna was the next to speak. "We have the utmost trust that you can do it, Twilight Sparkle. You'll be able to change the way ponies live their lives."
"Thank you, Luna." Twilight said, looking to her teacher who, with a smile still, nodded. Both princesses turned and walked off, Twilight watching them walk down the opposite hallway that Cadence and Shining Armor walked down, leading them to the much brighter throne room, as Twilight began walking down the middle hallway, walking outside and seeing Celestia's sun overhead, smiling as she looked back to her back, seeing the small stitches from where her wings used to be, raising a hoof she could feel the area where her horn used to be, making a small frown grow across her lips.
She looked back ahead to the slightly crowded streets of Canterlot, an image of Spitfire and Dr. Hooves still fresh in her mind as she sighed softly.
"Don't worry Hooves," she whispered under her breath, "I'm sure Spitfire made it out.... We'll find her.... Somehow...." |
Iron Mare | Titanium Findings | A hooded figure looked down to the sand, it's face covered with a mask, covering the figure's eyes as they looked downward to the silver, flat mask laying down in the sand. The figure used it's magic to lift the mask out of the sand as several more ponies dug around in the sand, collecting several more silver pieces of metal protruding from the ground.
The figure took a long while to examine the object in silence as a zebra stallion watched her, half of his face was scarred and burned badly, his face turned to one of anger, and a smaller zebra stallion with burn marks on it's body, blocking out it's flank, standing next to him.
"I give you cretins a chance of a lifetime. And you let it walk right out the front door???" The figure shouted, turning to the two zebra stallions, throwing it at the smaller one.
The smaller one winced in pain as the metal mask made contact with his face, the bigger one keeping his eyes locked on the figure.
"W-Well you can't b-b-blame u-"
"Shut it Ahmed," the figure shouted to the smaller zebra before turning back to the bigger one, "and you! I was told that you were the best in the criminal underworld! And now, here I am, standing in the desert as we gather up pieces of machinery that your prisoner used to ESCAPE!!!!"
"How were we able to guess sh-"
"YOU SHOULD HAVE MOVED THE BUCKING CAMERA TO LOOK BEHIND THE WALL!!!!" The figure screamed, taking off it's hood and running it's hoof through it's bright blue mane and sighing in exasperation.
"... Trixie. We will find her and we will force her to create the Hydra Cannon." The bigger stallion said.
"No. She's back in Equestria. We only had that one chance. Now that she's back she'll most likely be guarded by the best. And besides..." Trixie used her magic to pick the mask up again from the ground near Ahmed's hooves, grinning as she brought it closer to her face, "we've got something that I think will be much better."
"But are you sure that they will be okay with our change in plans?" The bigger stallion said.
"Don't worry Biashara," the light blue mare said, moving the mask from her face and throwing to Ahmed as he caught it between his hooves clumsily as Trixie grinned widely, "I'm sure the others will be okay with this new plan."
Twilight looked up to the large, crystal castle before her, seeing the castle had never been such a beautiful sight to the mare, and she could feel her eyes watering up. But she closed her eyes and worked her best to fight back the tears that were quickly trying desperately to surface and go down her cheeks.
She could feel herself getting closer to bursting to tears as she trots closer and closer to the castle, her trotting slowly increasing to galloping to the castle, growing a large smile across her lips as she closed in on the large crystal castle.
She stopped in front of it and reached her lavender hoof out, planting it in a small circular indent in the door, waiting a second, and then turning it to open the door and reveal the inside.
The inside of the castle was the same as she had remembered, all of the lights strewn through the ceiling to illuminate it's darkness. As she stepped inside she could still hear the echo of her steps bouncing off the walls of the halls and traveling through the crystal home.
But there was something else Twilight was hearing. Almost a... Soft pattering. She stood still and turned her head to listen closer, confirming that she was indeed hearing a soft pattering sound coming from somewhere in the castle, and the sound was coming closer.
She turned her head to look forward and saw something small and purple running to her, immediately recognizing it as-
"SPIKE!!!!" Twilight smiled widely as she ran to the small dragon, who's eyes were filled with tears as his lips were formed to a giant smile.
The two continued running to each other until they ran into each other, both of them embracing each other into a tight hug, Twilight unable to hold back her tears anymore as she held the small dragon close and tight.
The two held onto each other for what felt like hours, Twilight knowing the little dragon wouldn't want to let her go again. And, knowing full well why, she didn't let him go.
After a long moment of silence Spike was the first to speak.
"I'm so glad you're back Twilight...."
"And I'm glad to be back Spike." Twilight said, her voice slightly breaking as she wiped tears from her eyes.
"Please don't ever leave Equestria again...." Spike whispered, sniffing loudly as he held tighter to the lavender pony.
Twilight broke the hug and looked down to Spike, smiling softly. "Don't worry Spike. Nothing bad will ever happen to me again. I promise."
Spike turned his head upward to look up to the mare, his eyes still filled with tears as he wrapped his arms around the mare tighter, sniffing quietly as he laid his head on her and slowly nodding it.
Twilight sniffed as more tears flowed down her lavender cheeks as she did the same, hugging the small dragon as she looked down to the crystal floor.
Neither of them wanted to break the embrace, but eventually they had to as Spike's stomach made a deep, grumbling noise, causing the two of them to end the silence in the hollow castle with small laughter as they broke away.
"I guess somebody's hungry." Twilight said, both of them chuckling softly before Twilight's own stomach made a low and deep growling noise, making the two share another short lived laugh. Spike lunged forward in the air, landing on Twilight's back stomach first, the lavender mare chuckling and rolling her eyes playfully at the small dragon.
Spike began shifting around on her back, sitting up as she began trotting to the kitchen, careful to not drop the young dragon. As soon as the two entered the kitchen Spike immediately jumped off Twilight's back, jumping and successfully landing on the counter, the young dragon running over to multiple shelves and opening them and beginning to pull out several different gems, including rubies, sapphires, emeralds, diamonds, etc, and also making sure to pull out hayburger patties and buns with frozen fries for Twilight.
Twilight watched Spike practically empty the shelves with excitement, smiling softly at the small dragon. She felt several things lingering at the back of her mind though, something she didn't like thinking about. How did those murderers get their hooves on any of Twilight's tech? Were there more groups of them out there? Did they also have Twilight's tech? And where were they hiding?
Twilight had so many questions, and she was going to find the answer to them. She'd just have to get used to doing it completely magic-free and flightless. She picked her hoof up and softly felt the area where her horn was, but was now just slightly rough skin and fur.
She frowned softly as she felt the area, lowering her hoof down to the floor. The absence of her horn and wings didn't seem to affect Spike at all, did he just not care about her wings and horn being gone?
"Spike?" She asked.
"Yeah? What is it Twilight?" Spike answered, turning to face her, behind him a pan of fries ready to be cooked to golden perfection.
Twilight slightly lifted her hoof to her forehead, then moved it to her back, frowning softly still and then putting her hoof back down to the floor as Spike made a small frown of his own.
"Those things don't matter to me as much as you." Spike said, his frown turning into a soft smile as Twilight found herself tearing up slightly, her own frown turning into a soft smile of her own.
Spike turned back to the drawers, taking out a small handful of diamonds before closing it softly as he carefully shifted his weight onto one foot, gently poking the door with the tip of his foot to shut it as he placed the several jewels on the counter.
There was a loud knock on the door as Spike jumped off the counter, placing the food on the counter he began running to the door while shouting back to Twilight, "I'll get it!"
Twilight rolled her eyes, laughing slightly to herself as she turned to the counter, gazing upon the frozen fries bag. She used her magi-Oh... That's right... She looked to the cabinet that held the trays and opened it, biting down on the handle and pulling back to open it, then picking up a medium sized tray with her teeth, using her back hoof to close the cabinet.
She put the tray on the counter next to the bag of frozen fries and looked back and forth between the two, wondering just how she'd be able to get the fries actually ONTO the tray. She continued trying to solve this fry puzzle before she turned her head to the sound of multiple hooves against the floor, heading to the direction of the kitchen.
Twilight instantly knew who was creating the sound and ran to the door, seeing it swing open to reveal her friends, Spike in front of them as they pushed him forward in their mini stampede to Twilight.
"Twilight!" They all cried out.
"Girls!" Twilight said back to them, smiling warmly as they all wrapped their hooves around each other, Twilight slightly saddened at the notable absence of Pinkie Pie in the group. The girls broke the hug, all with warm and soft smiles. Twilight noticed something about Rainbow, something strange. She had a weird look in her eyes, as if she had something on her mind.
"We were all wonderin if ya'll would like ta come with us ta go to a restaurant? We can all grab a bite ta eat at yer favorite place Twi!" Applejack said, Spike nodding and smiling widely.
"Really? Well that sounds like a wonderful idea!" Twi said, "I haven't talked to your girls in forever! Now let's go!"
Twilight turned and used her magi-Right... Right... She walked over to the tray and bit her teeth on it's edges, carrying it over to the drawer, which Spike opened for her as he put the food away.
"Now let's go! I'm starving!" Spike said, a big smile still on his face, Twilight rolling her eyes with a soft smile of her own.
Spike jumped up again, grabbing onto Twilight's back and climbing up on and sitting down as she walked with the rest of the girls out of the castle.
Trixie ran a hoof through her mane as she looked at her reflection in the mirror, seeing her hoof travel through her disheveled mane that was pointing in several directions like a spiked ball. She sighed softly and used her magic to surround the purple brush in front of her with a light blue aura, picking it up and lifting it to her, straighten her mane with the brush.
She winced slightly as the brush tugged at the knots that were in her hair, pulling harder as her mane straightened out. She heard her door open as somepony entered, looking into the mirror she saw that it was Biashara walking in, looking around with that same dumb look Trixie always saw on his face, the one the she knew meant he was confused about what he was looking at.
"Trixie." He said, the mare rolling her eyes and scoffing at the zebra stallion, looking to the mirror still as she put the brush down, her mane now back down to it's natural state.
"What do you want Biashara? I'm busy preparing for the press conference. Twilight Sparkle comes back and all of a sudden all of the businesses in Equestria are expected to make a response about it." Trixie said, turning her head left and right to see all sides of her, making sure everything was just right for the conference.
"I just came by to ask if you had asked the others about-"
"I'll ask them in my own damn time Biashara!" Trixie shouted back to the stallion, "I have to get the bucking press of my flank before I can contact the others."
"Are you sure they will be happy with waiting for a progress update?" Biashara said, raising an eyebrow with a cocky smile, to which Trixie just scoffed and rolled her eyes.
"They can all deal with waiting. I need to deal with this first before we can do anything. And I'm sure the leader of our little group will definitely be rather pissed that you let our prized asset slip right around your hooves!" Trixie spat back to Biashara.
He didn't respond, how could he? He knew that insulting Trixie to her face would just result in him getting replaced by somepony else while he ended up dead at the bottom of the ocean. In this operation you were required to talk greatly about the higher ups. No matter how they acted.
"Besides, we have our findings." Trixie curled her lips into a malicious grin, Biashara knew this grin. He'd seen her make this grin several times before as she discussed their previous plan.
"Are you sure our findings will help us?" Biashara asked.
"Oh yes, Twilight Sparkle herself made them. So it's only a matter of waiting. Waiting for my team to piece her little robot suit back together, and then create more of them. Sparkle Industries will never know what hit them." Trixie said, holding her grin as she stood from her chair, trotting to the door and opening it, looking back to the stallion.
He slowly nodded and walked to the door, giving her one last glance before trotting out, heading for the nearest exit to the building.
Trixie used her magic to take her DragonFireDroid out from her dress, scorning that she was resorted to use her enemy company's tech to help her with her plans. She quickly swiped the screen with her hoof and entered her password, seeing her new message and opening it, grinning widely as she saw the picture message of her scientists standing in front of the finding. A giant, titanium suit. The one Twilight had used.
Trixie nodded softly, grinning still as she tucked her Droid back into her dress, walking down the hallway until she reached a pair of doors, an earth pony waiting there to open them for her, revealing a large room filled with ponies, several flashing their camera lights as rest had their notepad's and quills ready, the unicorn's holding them in their magical grasp as the pegasai and earth ponies used what Trixie immediately recognized as Twilight's very own body arms.
Looking at the parts that wrapped around the body, Trixie felt her blood boil upon seeing Sparkle Industries' very own logo of each of the destroyed Elements of Harmony.
Don't worry, Twilight, Trixie thought, moving past the crowd to a large, wooden podium, You'll get yours. |
Iron Mare | Losing Time and Working | Twilight gazed upon the menu, looking at all of the three options they had available. For a restaurant with very few options it was always difficult for Twilight to choose what she would order.
She looked around to her friends, who were all also focused on their menus as they pondered over what they could order. Twilight took this momentary silence to look around, taking in the peaceful sight of their hometown. Seeing the various ponies wander town, all doing their own thing for their day. She noticed that several were staring over to Twilight. She looked around her, wondering if perhaps the ponies could be staring at somepony else, but no, they were all staring directly at her. She quickly noticed that more ponies were staring, and she tried to block them out.
But no matter how hard Twilight tried to ignore the stares, all of the ponies were still staring directly at her. She had just returned to Ponyville, so she could see where they were coming fro-
"It's the thing."
A soft voice from the table shook Twilight out of her thoughts, and she turned to see her friends staring at her. Or... More to her chest. She looked down before she was hit by a sudden realization.
On her chest was the glowing, purple and metal star. Still there and out for all to see. Twilight looked back to the ponies who were previously staring at her, to see they had all turned their gazes back forward to what they were doing.
She looked back down to the glowing, purple star as her lips curled to a frown.
She felt a hoof touch her shoulder and she looked up to see Applejack, smiling reassuringly to her, Twilight seeing that her other friends were doing the same.
Twilight gave them a warm smile back, looking back down to her menu as a waiter trotted to their table.
"And what would you like this evening, Ms. Sparkle?" The waiter asked, his voice carrying an accent that's not too far off from Rarity's.
"Hm... I'll just take a regular hayburger please, no lettuce. Girls?" Twilight responded, hoofing the menu over to the waiter.
The others, except for Rarity, responded with the same request, a plain hayburger but with different toppings for each of them. Rarity herself choose a small salad instead.
As the girls waited for the waiter to return with their food, Applejack was the first to start conversation.
"So, how much free time do ya have before yer off to change things in yer business Twilight?" She asked.
"I'm not quite sure, but I'd have to say it isn't long." Twilight responded.
"Ah, well we all understand darling." Rarity said, "Business is business unfortunately, and even I will have to let business take control of my schedule."
"What do you mean?" Fluttershy asked timidly.
"Well it's nothing darling, I'll just be leaving Ponyville for a couple days, but I'll be back in time for Twilight's big returning party!" Rarity replied, Twilight cocked her head in confusion.
"My returning party?" She asked.
"Didn't you hear?" Rainbow said, "Princess Celestia is throwing you a big party in a week or two. She's throwing it to welcome you back to Equestria."
"I never heard about that." Twilight said.
"Oh... Well shoot, ah reckon that she meant fer it ta be a surprise party." Applejack said, brushing the back of her mane with her hoof and looking down. "Ah well, ah guess ya can still act surprised."
Twilight made a soft chuckle before her eyes widened upon hearing a soft ringing coming from her bag, and she struggled to bite onto the bag to flip it to her side.
Spike then got up and walked to her, opening her bag and taking out her DragonFireDroid, handing it to her with a soft smile and a 'thank you' in return as he sat back down.
Twilight swiped the screen and answered the call, seeing Celestia's face on the screen.
"Princess Celestia? What's wrong?" Twilight asked.
"I'm sorry my dear student if this is a bad time, but the Council is at it again. They say that if you're truly to go through with your plans then they expect you to be at your company right this second to work on creating your machines. They want to see a prototype by the end of the week."
"What???" Twilight said, raising her voice in shock, "By the end of the week??? How am I going to get a prototype done by then???"
Celestia sighed deeply, closing her eyes before responding. "I'm sorry my student, but it's what Flur wishes, and I think we shouldn't rebel against the Council too much. It might cause some stir amongst foreign nobles that will smear the Council's reputation with their control."
"It's okay... I understand Princess. I'll get to work straight away on a prototype." Twilight said.
"Good, my student. We will speak after you finish?"
"Yes Celestia, we will." Twilight ended the call and put the Droid back into her bag, Spike getting up and zipping it back up with a sad smile.
"Hey, it's okay Twilight. We can all go out to eat after you finish, right guys?" Spike said.
"Yeah!" The girls said, smiling.
"Alright... I'll see you girls later next week. Hopefully." Twilight said, still looking down as she got up from her chair and walked with Spike back to their house.
Spike opened the door as Twilight continued, walking through the hall until she reached her room, hearing Spike call down to her from the door. "I'll see you later today, alright? For dinner?"
She turned to him and nodded, smiling softly before turning and closing the door, hiding herself in her room.
Her desk was still as neat as she had left it, and the lack of dust proved that Spike had dusted it during her absence. She sat down and bit down on the handle of the top left drawer and opened it, biting down gently on a blank, folded blueprint inside and taking it out, setting it on the desk and opening it. She did the same for the top right drawer, removing a small container of ink and a quill.
She bit down onto the quill lightly, thanking the fact that she had learned how to write with her mouth in her younger years. She might be rusty, but it's better than nothing. She wrote down on the top right corner of the paper 'Prototype 1: Nonlethal Blast Weapon' before going to work.
Trixie ran her hoof through her mane, sighing. There had to be something they had overlooked. Something, anything.
"Are you sure that we don't have the materials to use the suit?" She asked one of her scientists.
"Yes Ms. Trixie. I'm sure. Without the power source that goes into the chest, then I'm afraid we can't use it." He replied.
Dammit! She thought, This can't be it! There has to be something! Anything!
"Ugh!" She kicked the suit, leaving a throbbing pain that she groaned at, "WELL BUILD IT!!!!"
"I-I'm sorry Ms. Trixie! B-But we don't know what she used or if we have the materials necessary to create-"
"TWILIGHT SPARKLE BUILT THIS THING IN A BUCKING CAVE!!!!" Trixie shouted, "WE HAVE ALL THE RESOURCES WE COULD WANT!!!!"
"Well... We're not Twilight Sparkle. And we don't even know what she had to use like she had back at the cave!" The scientist replied, shaking slightly at Trixie's sudden shouting.
"Well then." Trixie said, reaching to the table and getting her DragonFireDroid, calling Biashara. "Biashara! Get your men and meet me at the cave you used to hide Twilight Sparkle in. We're looking for something." She said, walking away and hanging up before Biashara had time to respond to her sudden call. |
Iron Mare | A Pain in the Chest and Early Concepts | Twilight moved the blueprint to the side and sat up, looking upwards to the ceiling. "Computer, activate." Twilight said.
Then, moments later a small, purple holographic ball appeared next to Twilight.
"Hello Ms. Sparkle. I'll have you know that I have not deactivated since your departure and disappearance 217 days ago. I had begun tracking your survival chances at about 14% before today as a matter of fact. But I had always kept the possibility that you would return, regardless of the odds." The holographic ball said, a line inside of it moving in small waves as it spoke.
"Yeah... I, uh... Missed you too." Twilight said, shifting in her chair and clearing her throat, "Now, we've got some wor-"
"Would you like for me to play the 4,298 messages including e-mails, and calls you have received since then?" The ball asked.
"N-No thank you computer. I'll check them at a later date. Right now I have to plan out and build a prototype for a nonlethal weapon to show off to the Council by the end of the week. That's seven days we have to use to our advantage." Twilight answered.
"Very well then. I shall place them in the 'to be looked upon later' folder. Now, what ideas do you have as of now, Ms. Sparkle?" The ball said.
"Well, for right now I need to focus on something else for a bit." Twilight turned her chair and pointed to the small circle on her chest, "I'd like you to scan this and tell me exactly what it is. A.... Friend of mine.... Told me that it was some sort of a magnet. But I'd like to know exactly why they put a magnet inside of me."
"Yes, ma'am." The ball said, as a mechanical arm lowered itself from the ceiling, then releasing a thin, horizontal bar that sent out a small and thin purple light that surrounded Twilight's chest. It stayed there for a few seconds before the light disappeared and the bar turned 90 degrees, spreading it's two pieces open and showing a hologram screen in between them, showing an image of Twilight's chest.
"Alright, now enhance and scan in to show the cardiovascular layer, specifically my heart. I want to know what's there." Twilight said.
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle." The computer replied, the holographic screen zooming in slightly and the image changing to show an image of Twilight's heart, and what seemed like dozens of sharp pieces of metal around her heart.
"C-Computer...?" Twilight said, her voice cracking as she began breathing heavily, "W-What's that?"
"Those appear to be small pieces of metal. More specifically though, they are pieces of shrapnel made, the metal they are made out of seems to show that the pieces were made from your company." The computer replied.
"The bomb...." Twilight slowly realized, "t-the battery! No! I left the battery! And the replacement! I left that there too!!!"
Twilight put a hoof to her chest, breathing in quick and short breaths to try and control her breathing as her heart started beating rapidly.
"The object seems to be losing it's effectiveness." The computer said.
"W-What can we make that can perhaps stand as a permanent replacement for the battery and the current object?" Twilight asked, "could we maybe make a smaller version of the arc reactor? And use that?"
"Odds of you surviving this theory are 47 percent, Ms. Sparkle." The computer replied.
"Are there any ways to raise the chances?"
"I'm afraid not."
Twilight sighed deeply and ran her hoof through her mane, then buried her face in her hooves. She didn't know what kind of battery to give the current magnet in her chest, had only a 47 percent chance of survival if she made a new, miniature arc reactor to use as a magnet.
"Computer... Go. Make a miniature version of the arc reactor and prepare to exchange my current magnet for the new one.
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle." The computer said, the holographic ball disappearing afterwards.
Twilight sat back in her chair and looked up, her hoof running through the circumference of the circle on her chest.
Twilight didn't know how much time had passed until she saw the holographic ball of her computer appear again.
"I am ready now, Ms. Sparkle." The computer said, "would you like for me to perform the exchange here?"
Twilight sighed, closing her eyes and nodding, "yes, computer. Do it."
Twilight held her breath during the exchange, shutting her eyes tight, not wanting to see what was happening. The computer told her that it would be a painless process, but the sight would most likely make Twilight gag, so keeping her eyes shut seemed like the best way to go. The computer said there would be no blood, so Twilight stayed seated in her chair, Twilight wishing that it would be over quick. And thankfully, it was..
"I am done now, Ms. Sparkle." The computer said.
Twilight opened her eyes, seeing her previous purple circle replaced with one that was pretty much the same, but it's edges were a lot shinier, and Twilight felt herself seemingly lift up and feel as though all the stress and problems from her life have all somewhat gone away.
"The new device, the miniature arc reactor, seems to be working just as expected, so it should be able to keep you alive for decades, Ms. Sparkle."
"Alright... Good job computer... And thank you." Twilight said.
"You are quite welcome, Ms. Sparkle. And please tell me if there is anything else you wish for me to help you with." The computer said.
"Nothing now for my heart now, computer," Twilight turned the chair back to her desk, moving the blueprint back in front of her, "now we just need to run through ideas for our nonlethal weapon prototype to show off to the Council."
"I will search through the folders of previous projects, please give me a moment." The computer said, the ball disappearing as Twilight nodded.
She sighed when she looked down to her arc reactor, knowing she'll have this constant and permanent reminder of the cave, of Whooves, of Spitfire, and of waking up with her only chance of survival being a magnet powered by a battery. She then ran her hoof through her mane, but then moved back down to her forehead, rubbing the small, circular rough area where her horn used to be. "Well.... Three reminders...." She thought.
The ball then returned, "I have finished, Ms. Sparkle. I have found a few designs we could use as a base for an idea that I have if you would like to hear." It said.
"Sure computer, go ahead." Twilight said.
A holographic screen appeared in front of the ball, showing early designs for Twilight's hoof aid, which was supposed to have been created to help soldiers during war to hold their weapons in their hooves, but was eventually replaced with the body holster, which offered a 360 degree look around the soldier.
"I was thinking that the weapon could be, as you said, a nonlethal blast that originated from the hoof, allowing the one being attacked to survive, as the attack will just simply knock them back." The computer said.
"Alright... It sounds good computer. Put a bookmark in that option, and we can revisit it if we can't find any other options." Twilight responded.
Twilight yawned and rubbed her eyes softly, looking up to the corner of her desk to read her clock, which said 11:20 PM. It had been three days since she had begun working on the blueprints, and she was close to being done. All that she needed was a way for the machine to actually get the energy necessary to use it, since not all soldiers were Unicorns.
She had run through many ideas for the design, all of them ending up scraped. There were plans for a horn casing that could be placed on top of a unicorn's horn to be used, or put on a pegasus and earth pony to be used just like a horn with the beam. But it was scrapped as Twilight thought it'd be easy for enemies to just shoot off. So she kept thinking.
Eventually, she decided on the design that her computer had offered, which would end at the hoof. They added that the device would have wiring that lead to the chest area, where their armor is strongest, where it would store the energy to fire from the device on the hoof.
All she needed was a way to actually make the energy and for it to be used in a small device. She looked down, sighing and lightly tapping the small, glowing circle on her chest.
"I fear that I have no ideas of anything that can give us the energy required to make this weapon outside of making a smaller version of the arc reactor, Ms. Sparkle." The computer said.
"And we both know why we can't do that." Twilight said, looking down to her notes still and gently biting down on the end of her pencil.
"It's too powerful to put into the Council's hooves." The computer responded.
"Exactly. I don't trust them with something so powerful." Twilight said, "Now, have you finished the prototype?"
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle. I shall send it up immediately." A small square opened up on the floor of Twilight's office and a small stand rose, on it was a device made of wiring that was in the shape of a pony's hoof, a small box was attached to another cord that attached to a wire in the opening. At the other end of the device, where the end of the hoof went, was a small circle that had a slight blue glow to it. Twilight turned to it and nodded.
"And you're positive that this box will be able to give us the power required for the blast?" Twilight asked.
"I have a 86% feeling that this will work, Ms. Sparkle. Using the replacement should give enough power to give you the blast results you are looking for." The computer replied.
"Alright, then go ahead and try it out. Let's see if this'll work." Twilight said, turning her chair.
"As you wish." The stand turned, pointing the end of the device towards a small pony shaped dummy, rising from the ground as the wall behind it was covered by a much thicker wall, Twilight put on a pair of goggles as this happened.
The goggles wouldn't do much of anything, in fact, during most of her experiments she's never really needed to use them, but she always wore the goggles her parents bought her when she decided she would be a student for Celestia.
"Alright, when you're ready computer." Twilight said.
The device made a short whirr noise, before a yellow blast of energy shot out from the end of the hoof towards the dummy, knocking the dummy back hard against the wall, causing Twilight to scream. The dummy landed on the floor with a large hole in the area where it's front legs, head and top part of it's body used to be.
Spike entered the room, panting and looking around. "T-Twilight?? What happened??" He asked.
"N-Nothing Spike... T-The current model for the prototype just... Had a lot more 'oomph' than we thought." Twilight said, removing her goggles.
"We apologize if we frightened you, Spike." The computer said.
"Oh, no problem AIVHA" Spike said.
"'AIVHA'?" Twilight asked.
"Yeah, AIVHA. 'An Intelligent Virtual Helping Ally.' It's just a little name I call the computer. It's better than just saying 'computer' all the time." Spike replied, "it gets a little repetitive. So I gave her a name."
"Yes, Spike has given me this name a while ago, Ms. Sparkle." AIVHA said.
"AIVHA... Well... Alright then." Twilight said, chuckling. "We really should get back to work though computer."
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle."
"Alright, I'll see you for dinner then Twilight?" Spike asked.
"Of course Spike." Twilight said.
"Alright. And good luck!" Spike closed the door and Twilight watched as the dummy was grabbed by a small arm from the floor and taken down, along with the stand holding the current model for the prototype.
"I think we should try adding more constriction to the cord where the energy goes through, take away from it's power." Twilight said.
"I shall get to work on it right away, Ms. Sparkle."
Twilight leaned forward and buried her face in her hooves, sighing and yawning. "We're almost done," Twilight thought, "just a couple more trials."
Twilight sat up in her chair and looked down to her blueprints, taking the pencil and jotting down the note on restricting the cord where the energy goes, putting the pencil back down when she finished.
"... I need to send someone back there. We need to find it. The cave I was held in. I left back a bucking miniature arc reactor. And if they decide they want to go back for Faust knows what, and they find it... Then there's nothing we can do to stop them." |
Iron Mare | Too Late | Twilight yawned as the computer activated the next model of the prototype, blasting the dummy back, watching as it hit the wall.
"Test concluded, Ms. Sparkle. The test dummy seems to be completely intact, with all of it's inner workings left unharmed." The computer said.
Twilight sat up, "did you double check it?" She asked.
"I triple checked it." The computer responded.
Twilight jumped from her chair and slid her hoof through the opening in the device as the dummy was set back up again.
"Alright. Now just to see if it's comfortable to use." Twilight said, aiming towards the dummy.
Twilight heard the device 'whirr' quickly before shooting out the blast, knocking Twilight's arm back slightly as the dummy was hit with the same results as before.
"Alright, good job computer. Now make three more based exactly like this one." Twilight said.
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle."
Twilight got up from her chair and trotted outside of her office, biting her blueprints and taking them with her. She called for Spike, who appeared almost immediately after she called, and he opened the door to her lab for her and followed her down.
"So did you complete the prototype Twilight?" Spike asked.
"Almost Spike." She replied, "I still need to test one last thing. Yes, it can be used to knock an enemy back, but I also have plans for it to be used as something that earth ponies and unicorns can use to fly with the Pegasus soldiers with."
"Ohhh.... That sounds awesome! Are you going down here to try it out yourself?" Spike said.
"Well I can't ask you to do it Spike." Twilight said back.
The two reached the bottom of the stairs, both watching as the tables and lab equipment were pulled to the sides of the lab, and large, thick glass panels were placed in front of them.
"For the equipment's protection." The computer explained.
"Good thinking computer." Twilight gave the blueprints to Spike, walking up to two mechanical arms that were holding one of the prototype models each.
She slid her hooves inside each of them and shook violently as she struggled to stay on her two hind legs, another mechanical arm appearing and putting a type of body armor around Twilight that adjusted, tightening around her stomach and chest to allow her to stay upright without shaking.
"Alright computer, let's go for a safe test, so use only 30% power, and increase slowly." Twilight said, aiming her hooves down as the devices activated, slightly jerking her up before she began slowly lifting off the ground to stop just a mere inch.
"Now adjusting to 40% power." The blasts from the devices got louder and bigger, becoming more powerful as Twilight was lifted slightly higher as Spike watched in awe.
"Now adjusting to 50% power." Twilight was lifted even higher about 2 feet as the devices slowly got stronger, looking down and to each device to make sure they weren't showing signs of malfunctioning.
"Alright... Now let's try to fly around the room a little. Test to see if they can do more than just hover." Twilight gently began moving her arms back, leaning them as she slowly began moving forward, her hooves beginning to shake slightly as she moved her left arm out a bit to turn right and fly back to Spike, stopping as she hovered directly above him before he moved out of the way.
"Okay computer, adjust the power to 70%, I'm feeling pretty confident about this." Twilight said.
"As you wish, Ms. Sparkle." The prototypes shot out a stronger blast of energy each, Twilight suddenly beginning to hover higher about 5 feet, nearly touching the roof of her lab as she began maneuvering around slowly. Going in circles before going to the other end of the lab, then returning. Twilight gulped and leaned her arms back more, flying faster around the lab, but still slow enough to control.
"Do you wish to lower the power, Ms. Sparkle?" The computer asked.
"No, no," Twilight replied, "this is good. But we need a bigger area to try 100%. So open the hatch to go outside and let's see how it goes."
"Yes Ms. Sparkle, get ready." The computer said, lowering the power in each prototype to 25% each.
"But Twilight, what if you crash? You could get hurt bad!" Spike said.
"Right... Hmmm.... Computer, remember that armor prototype I made for the Equestrian military before I replaced it with an even better model? Twilight said.
"The one you couldn't get the right eye size on?" The computer asked.
"That's the one." Twilight said.
"You wish to use it to avoid injury?"
"Yes computer, please."
"Very well." The computer replied.
"Are you sure about this Twilight?" Spike asked.
"Don't worry Spike, I'm sure the prototypes will work just as expected. They've been doing just that so far with no sign of malfunction. So I'm sure they'll continue working just as they should."
"The armor is ready for you to wear, Ms. Sparkle." The computer said. Twilight turned and held her arms out for her to appear in a 'T' position, a group of mechanical arms putting the armor on her one plate at a time.
She watched the front part of her helmet close and she could only see out of the tiny, rectangular eyes before a holographic screen appeared in front of her face, surprising her.
"W-Woah! What's this? This wasn't in the original blueprints of the suit. You could have just made the eyes bigger computer. Nopony is going to be shooting at them, so it would have been fine." She said.
"Well I just thought that this would be a much better way of checking on the prototypes, the suit itself to make sure the suit stays together, and also so you and I can stay in contact better." The computer replied.
"Good thinking AIVHA." Spike said.
"Yeah, good job." Twilight added.
"Thank you, both of you. Now, shall we give the prototypes a test flight?" AIVHA said.
"Yes, now let's go." Twilight turned, Spike staring in awe at the silver suit as it turned to face a wall on the opposite end of the large laboratory, the wall lifting to reveal a dark tunnel which illuminated with light as the wall raised.
"Alright Twilight and AIVHA, good luck!" Spike said.
"Thank you, Spike." Twilight and AIVHA said in unison.
The prototypes whirred loudly as they were activated with 50% power, Twilight leaning her arms back and her body forward and flying out of the lab through the tunnel with ease.
Daylight filled the tunnel as Twilight flew closer to it, the prototypes slowly gaining power. 60%. Then 70%. Then 80%. Then finally they flew out of the tunnel about 3 miles off the borders of Ponyville, the prototypes flying at 90% now.
"Computer! Is everything okay?" Twilight asked, gulping and breathing heavily.
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle. Everything is working just as expected. You can calm your breathing now."
"Hehe... Right. I've just... I've never flown like this. Even before I lost my... My..." Twilight just stared forward in silence as she continued flying upward, remembering her times flying with Rainbow Dash as she helped her get better adjusting to her wings, and flying with Fluttershy when she just wanted a nice, calm time.
"Ms. Sparkle! Ms. Sparkle! You're going too far up!" She heard her computer yell, breaking her out of her trance, "you need to turn around now or the suit will freeze!"
Twilight yelled and stopped the prototypes, turning around and starting them back up again, flying directly down before she turned upward.
"S-Sorry computer... I just kinda zoned out there for a moment..." Twilight said, shaking her head.
"It's alright Ms. Sparkle." AIVHA replied, "the prototypes seem to be working exactly as expected, would you like us to turn around?"
"No computer, I'd like to continue for just a bit longer. Make sure they're working just fine." Twilight said, leaning downwards more as the blasters gained more power.
"Yes Ms. Sparkle. How long shall the test last?" AIVHA said.
"Just a few minutes, Computer." Twilight said, "I want to see just how smooth this thing can move."
Twilight faced her hooves forward, sending her curving upwards quickly and flying up to the air, hearing the wind whistling past her ears outside of the helmet. She could see herself flying directly into a cloud, then burst out through the other end where she slowed herself down, turning herself to look downward at Ponyville.
She smiled softly as she saw the small little town, turning herself to fly forward in it's direction, staying high up so she doesn't cause some kind of panic amongst the ponies seeing the flying object that definitely wasn't Equestrian Military.
"Wow... This sure is a nice view." Twilight said softly, under her breath.
"This is a pleasing view." AIVHA said, "do you wish to stay and enjoy the view or turn back to the lab now, Ms. Sparkle?"
"Just a few more seconds and then I'll return." Twilight smiled as she responded, taking in a deep breath in and then releasing it, closing her eyes as she heard the wind flow past her helmet as she held herself in her place.
She opened her eyes and took one last look to the small town, the town she never thought she'd see again, then she turned and began flying back to the underground tunnel entrance.
"Alright, so I think it's safe to say that the blasters are certainly working as expected, wouldn't you say Ms. Sparkle?" AIVHA said.
"Yes, I would," she responded, "we can begin mass producing more of these soon, we just have to hope that the current source of energy doesn't begin-" Twilight was cut off by her holographic screen turning red, and a quiet alarm going off. "oh please don't tell me that's the power source..."
"I'm afraid that I have to be the bearer of bad news, ma'am." AIVHA said.
"Crud... What happened? I can still fly easily, but my right leg is feeling heavy." Twilight said.
"It seems that the power source for the blaster in the bottom right hoof has begun depleting, most likely from overuse."
"So the replacement power source has a short time limit..."
"I recommend haste to the tunnel to avoid the others failing as well. As in now. So hurry." AIVHA said.
Twilight nodded and turned the power up on the three working and sped to the tunnel, lowering the power as she approached and flew downward into the tunnel, through it as fast as she could while keeping stability, and then slowing down immensely when she saw her lab ahead of her.
She stopped in the center of the lab, and slowly began lowering. "Easy... Easy..." She said to herself as she lowered, crying out when she eventually fell down with a loud clang onto her back.
"Ow..." That was all she managed to say as she turned to get back onto her feet. "Don't tell Spike about that."
"I'll try not to." AIVHA replied, holding back a chuckle.
"No need to." Spike said from the other end of the room, chuckling, "nice landing."
Twilight rolled her eyes, smiling, "Alright computer... Looks like it's back to the drawing board..."
"Might I recommend a short break, Ms. Sparkle? It might do you some good."
"Yeah... Yeah, okay. But during the break I want you to think of any possible ways to do one of two things. I want you to find another power source that could work as a long lasting source for the blasters, or find a way to keep these ones from losing power so fast." Twilight said.
"Will do, ma'am. I will print out any copy of the research I find and leave it all on your desk." AIVHA replied.
"Alright, thank you computer," Twilight said, then turning to Spike and taking off the helmet to her suit, setting it down on a nearby table, "so, anything good on Spike?"
"No, not really. I have to wait a whole three days for my favorite show to get it's new episode and it's killing me!" Spike said, laying down onto his side, "ugh... You wanna take the controller for a bit?"
"Yeah, sure, hoof it over." Twilight said, Spike tossing the controller to Twilight with AIVHA's mechanical arms catching it. Twilight then pushed down gently on one of the buttons with the edge of her hoof, switching it to the news channel.
"Oh, come on! The news?" Spike exclaimed in a voice too whiny for Twilight's liking.
"Yes, the news. I like watching the news. Seeing all of the things happening over Equus. It was never possible before, with it only happening through cards and letters, but now we can actually see these things happening!" Twilight said, growing a big smile as she thought more about what she was talking about, "don't you find that amazing?"
"I guess it is kinda awesome... But come on, the NEWS???" Spike sighed, then picked up a comic from his side and opening it, "tell me when it's over."
Twilight chuckled and rolled her eyes, shaking her head and then turning her attention back to the news.
"Crime in Manehatten seems to be at an all time low since a while now, making Manehatten lower down from it's spot as the third most dangerous city in Equestria, and down to the fifth. The one responsible for this seems to be the same red stallion helping the police, the very same stallion that police officials haven't been able to catch ever since his appearance two weeks ago, which is when the crime rate began declining." The news mare said.
"Still nothing new for that guy still I guess." Spike said.
"Of who?" Twilight asked.
"This stallion in Manehatten. He hasn't been seen at all outside of the night before you returned, but he made himself known. They said that he wears some sort of a weird red suit. And he looks kinda like a horned monster. He's all mysterious and spooky." Spike answered, not looking away from his comic.
"Hm... Strange." Twilight said, turning back to the EED.
"Also in international news, the terrorist group known as the Four Rings, are on the move again."
Twilight's eyes widened, her pupils becoming as small as pinpricks as she heard that name, her breathing becoming quick and short.
"The Equestrian Government earlier had an anonymous tip from one who referred to themselves as a "urban legend" from the Zebra Kingdom. The tip stated that a large group of them is moving north towards the desert."
Twilight stepped back, Spike not noticing her frantic breathing as he had put his headphones in and was too busy with his comic. She began panting heavily and holding her chest.
"Ms. Sparkle! Are you alright?" AIVHA asked.
"T-T-They... T-The desert... T-The... The replacement!!!" Twilight cried out, "they're looking for it! They'll find it!"
Twilight then stopped her frantic breathing, the room was nearly silent, with the only noise heard being from the news mare on the EED. She began remembering her times in the cave, how they had tortured her, Spitfire and Whooves... How they had cut off her wings and horn... And how much her blood boiled at the thought of them.
She was angry, so angry it somewhat scared herself. And then she thought of what would happen if the Four Rings, or anypony else had gotten their hooves on the replacement she had made. She couldn't let anypony. She had to find the cave she was forced in, and she had to find the replacement she had made, and hide it from everypony forever. Or destroy it. Either option was fine by her.
"Computer!!" Twilight cried out, putting her helmet back on and raising her hooves, allowing AIVHA's mechanical arms to remove her gauntlets, "I need you to transfer the power for the current blasters on the suit to be given by the arc reactor on my chest! I need to find that group and stop them from finding the replacement reactor!"
"M-Ms. Sparkle?!" AIVHA said, "can't we just call the Council and have them send a team??"
"No! If the Council gets their hooves on it then we'll never see it again! I need to get it myself!" Twilight said, AIVHA's mechanical arms adjusting her blasters and connecting their wires to her arc reactor on her chest, "Oh Tia... Oh Tia... Oh my Faust... This is crazy... B-But I can't let the Council OR the Four Rings get their hooves on it! I'll... This'll be a one time thing... I'm doing it only to protect everypony from them having the arc reactor... And that's it..."
Twilight felt the arms let go of her hooves, allowing her to turn to the tunnel entrance opening up and the lights inside shining, showing Twilight the way out. She turned to Spike, "I'll be safe... Don't worry," she said, her helmet lowering and clanging shut as she then lifted up off the ground, flying as fast as she could out through the tunnel.
Spike lifted his head and looked around, lifting one side of his headphones away from his ears and looking around, seeing nothing. He shrugged and put it back, leaning back down on the floor and continuing his comic where he left off.
The group groaned as they heard what their comrade had asked, several of them facehoofing themselves.
"Are you kidding me???" One asked.
"You just went 10 minutes ago!!!"
"Well I really have to go now guys! I can't control it!" The comrade said.
"Fine! But hurry up! Trixie expects us to be there soon, and if we're not there then she'll show us to the leader of her little group she's in. And word is he's not very forgiving to those who don't work to his coworkers expectations." One of the members said.
The group all groaned as they sat down in the hot sand on their backpacks, each of them covering their eyes from the blistering sun as their comrade galloped far away from them.
"So... What exactly does Trixie want us there for? Can't she and her own little team she already have with her look by themselves? She has that one guy with them, that assassin for her group's leader. Can't he help her find it?" One member asked another.
"I don't know man. She just told us to meet with her team out here in the desert. She also told us to travel light, taking things that aren't essential. She said we want to be at the cave with them before the Panther can get us." The other member responded, his voice carrying a thick accent.
"The Panther? Man, that guy even shows his ugly mug and I'll blow it off."
"Yeah, sure you will. Believe me, the Panther moves faster than you can blink. Pfft... I'm sure Trixie will want us to deal with the Panther soon anyways, make sure he doesn't start screwing up our operations."
"Well we can handle that freak. Easy as-" The member was interrupted by the sound of screaming from a nearby member, followed by a loud whirr sound and two blasts of energy knocking the two members who were talking back onto the ground hard, leaving them groaning and holding their stomachs.
The figure was bent down, and appeared to be a pony made of silver. It was looking to the ground with one hoof planted firmly on the ground and it's other pointed upwards diagonally. It lifted it's head and the members could see the small, rectangular, purple eyes staring at them, and it lifted it's hoof from the ground and shot a blast of energy that knocked another member back.
Another member aimed his rifle to the silver pony, about to fire before it quickly turned and fired, knocking him back. The silver pony jumped up as it's feet shot two blasts of energy, it's front hooves knocking the last member on the ground, groaning in pain and holding his stomach with his comrades.
The pony landed and stood up on it's hind legs, the area around the stomach tightening to allow this.
"Now... I don't want to hurt you all any more than I have already. So please, tell me," the pony spoke with a robotic voice, deep and understandable. It walked over to one member and bent down onto it's knees, face to face with a member of the Four Rings, "where's the cave you all are headed too?"
"G-Go to Tartarus... F-Freak..." The member said, groaning.
"Please tell me... Please! I don't want to have to blast you again." The pony said.
"Y-You think I'll betray the Four Rings???" The member said, "you think I'm crazy???"
"Please work with me... Please... Please do what's right... I can't allow the Four Rings or the Equestrian Council to get their hooves on the object they're looking for. Please. If you help me, then I promise you that I will make sure the officials know you helped me stop something terrible from happening."
The member was silent and stared at the pony, then he spoke, "and when the Four Rings are ordered to find me?"
"They won't find you. I promise. I'll get you and all of your friends to be hidden and be protected by the Zebra Kingdom Government. I'll find a way. I promise."
"And how do I know that you're a pony that has that kind of influence??" The stallion asked.
"I guess you'll just have to trust me."
The member stared into the purple lights that the pony had for eyes, then rolled his eyes and scoffed, muttering to himself, "i'm bucking insane..."
"Fine! Only to get away from these psychos that our boss works with... We're headed to the mountains. To the part with the largest mountain that's highest in the sky. Right next to that is the lowest part, there's a cave there. That's where we're headed." The member said.
"Thank you. You don't know how many lives you most likely just saved." The pony said, looking to the mountains and standing up.
"Alright... Now I've kept my end of the deal... Now you have to do the same!" The member said.
The pony nodded and looked back down, "Of course I will." The pony turned and put it's hoof to the side of it's head, muting its voice to the outside.
"Computer... I need you to send a message to the Zebra Kingdom Military. Tell them to show up to these coordinates and take these stallions away. And have them make sure they're protected and hidden from anypony that might wish to do them harm. Make it anonymous. Also! Use the name that the tipper that the news mare used." Twilight said.
"Right away Ms. Sparkle. And it has been signed as you asked, with the name 'Urban Legend'." AIVHA replied.
"Thank you."
"Ms. Sparkle... Are you seriously going to allow these stallions to not be taken into custody?" AIVHA asked.
Twilight turned to look at the stallion, her mute staying on. "Everypony deserves a second chance. They will be punished, as they should be for what they've done, but everypony deserves a second chance."
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle." AIVHA said.
Twilight turned her mute off and watched as the previous member returned from his break, slowly trotting to them with his rifle aimed to her.
"B-Back off!"
"Don't worry. Help is on the way. Just remember to use this second chance wisely."
Twilight looked up and the blasters started, lifting her up off the ground and flying through the sky towards the mountains with the two members sitting alone, accompanied only by their injured comrades.
"... Who was that?" The returning member asked.
"I don't know... But I really hope they're a pony who keeps their promises." The member replied.
Twilight scanned the mountains she was flying over, finding the smallest peak and searching it until she found a small cave entrance.
"There it is!" She said, flying downwards and landing in front, stopping as she looked inside.
"Are you alright, Ms. Sparkle?" AIVHA asked.
"... I-I... N-No... B-But I have t-to go inside... I-I have to get the arc reactor and stop anypony else from ever getting it..."
Twilight took one shaky step inside, then another, then another, and another until she found herself walking on her hind legs deeper into the cave. She could feel chills go down her spine as she continued, AIVHA turning on night vision tech so they could see in the dark tunnels.
Eventually they reached the fork, the right side leading to where the Four Rings resided, and the left side leading to the room she, Spitfire and Whooves were held captive.
She took a deep breath and continued down through the left cave, finding the broken door to their room hanging off the hinges. She walked in and could see the place was torn apart, evidence that the Four Rings had been there before and had searched. She trotted over to her previous bed, and looked down, her eyes widening as she saw a cut in the bed.
She put her hooves inside and felt around the entire area, putting her other hoof inside and tearing the bed apart, searching through the bed's filling in a desperate attempt to find the object she had been looking for.
"No... No! No!!! No!!!! NO!!!!! NO!!!!! NO!!!!!!! NO!!!!!" She yelled out, punching the ground hard with her fist when she gave up.
"... Ms. Sparkle...?" AIVHA hesitantly said.
Twilight was silent, looking down to the ground, covered with the stuffing from the bed, and the arc reactor nowhere in sight. Twilight blinked when AIVHA spoke, wondering just how long they had been in this position, as it felt like it had been forever.
She kept her head down as she was on her knees, "... t-they... They took it... They got here before we could... And now... Now they have it..." Twilight eventually said.
"Ms. Sparkle... We could go back to the lab and find the arc's energy signature, find out where they hid it." AIVHA suggested.
"... I made that arc in a cave with a box full of scraps... There's no way it'll be able to make an energy signature powerful enough for us to track..."
"... Well... We cannot give up hope yet ma'am... There must be some way we can find it." AIVHA said.
"..... For now I just want to get home computer..... Then we'll talk about where to find it." Twilight said, looking back up to her destroyed bed, and then turning to see two more beds, one that belonged to Spitfire and the other belonging to Whooves.
She got up and sniffed, turning back around and walking outside of the cave. When she left the cave she could see it was night, with Luna's moon high in the sky. She looked to the ground, seeing burn marks from the escape.
"Are you alright, Ms. Sparkle?" AIVHA asked.
"... No... Computer... No, I'm not alright.... I just wish I hadn't forgotten it... Then maybe Whooves and Spitfire would still be alive... And then... Then they could be home right now... In Equestria... They'd be happy... But now they're gone... And it's all because of the Four Rings..." Twilight said, "... let's just get home computer... I want to get to bed soon after we talk about where they could have taken the arc reactor."
Twilight took one last look back into the cave before blasting off into the sky. She sniffed again as she remembered Whooves and Spitfire's faces, remembering their last moments, which they spent trying to make sure Twilight made it out alive.
She looked to the moon and felt her eyes watering slightly, yawning as she had just realized how exhausted she was.
Trixie groaned as she leaned forward, burying her face in her hooves as she sat down on a small bed in the cave room. She could hear the members of the Four Rings searching the room, all of them searching for anything Twilight Sparkle could have left behind.
She looked up to a member and called for him, causing him to trot to her quickly.
"When's the assassin going to get here? I need to get away from here..." Trixie asked, "No... I deserve to be here... To be in the same room where he sent the prisoners I was forced to torture..."
"Just a few, I checked in a minute ago." The member said.
"Good... Now go." Trixie waved him off and buried her face again.
Trixie rubbed her temples softly, perking her ears up when she heard voices from the hallway, knowing they were arriving.
She could still feel a slight pain in the back of her head from after she had visited the leader of her group, it was beginning to throb softly. She was hoping they would finish up soon so she could get back to her office in Equestria and get her medicine.
She looked up as she continued rubbing her temples, but what she saw made her eyes grow wide. She saw a group of her leader's personal soldiers, all outfitted and armed. But in the middle of them was the leader's own personal assassin. His own personal guard he trained and hired a few days ago. A stallion with a brown mane, coat and tail. His cutie mark was burned off, and his mane was cut short and in a messy style.
"Dr. Whooves..." Trixie thought to herself, "Oh mother of Faust... What did they do to you...?"
She stood up from the bed and slowly trotted to the stallion, who was looking around the room with an angry glare, his eyes could be shooting daggers out of them.
"S-So. You must be Whov-" Trixie was stopped by one of the soldiers next to Whooves.
"His name is Agent 48, our leader's personal guard." The soldier said.
"Ah... Right. So... Agent 48... We were told that you would be able to help us find the special... Item... We're looking for. Since you remember being here for a time. Do you... Remember why you were here?"
Whooves' face begun to strain, showing that he was struggling as he was obviously trying to think about why he was there.
"Hey!" One of the soldier said, "unless you want to have a death wish I suggest you don't ask anymore stupid questions!"
"It's... Fine." Whooves said, moving forward to Trixie, "I... I remember something glowing... Something... Something circular and... Purple... Near there." He pointed a hoof to the area around the beds.
Trixie whistled to her guards and pointed to the same area, all of them nodding and moved there to continue their search.
She looked back to Whooves, his face never changing from it's angry expression, and his body remaining stiff as if he were ready to attack anypony at any time.
"Boss!" One of Trixie's guards called out.
She turned and saw him holding a small, glowing, circular purple object in his hoof, trotting slowly to her. "I found it from it's light glowing in one of the beds!"
Trixie used her magic to pick it up, "Hiding it in a bed... Hm." she thought, then showing it to Whooves.
"T-That's it. That's... That's what I saw." He said, "I can't remember why... But I remember that."
"Alright, good! Now come on ponies! We have to get Agent 48 out of here now!" One of the soldiers next to Whooves said, the others taking him away, "and I suggest you all get out of here soon! The Panther might be done attacking that little group of bait in the dessert and will be coming here."
Trixie's guards all gulped at the thought of going up against the Panther, and they all began trotting quickly to the exit of the room to the tunnel.
She looked back to the room when she reached the door, then looked forward and continued down the tunnel.
"I knew I should have just killed Whooves instead of let the leader turn him into... This!" Trixie held her head as she felt a sharp pain, forcing her to stop and lean against a wall of the cave, "Nopony deserves what I and the others had to go through...."
She continued holding her head and trotted as fast as she could to the exit, climbing onto the helicopter and hitting the door to the pilot seat, telling them to lift off. They lifted upwards and began flying away from the cave, Trixie sitting down and holding her head, leaning back against the a wall and sighing. She looked outside to the stars and wiped a tear from her cheek.
"I'm sorry Twilight... If only I knew what pain he had put you through... I could have stopped him..." |
Iron Mare | Finding The Arc | Twilight removed the helmet and put it down on a table, sitting down on one of the nearby chairs and leaning forward, burying her face in her hooves as Spike ran down the stairs.
"Twilight!" He called out, jumping to the mare and hugging her tight, "where the heck did you go???"
"Sorry Spike," she said, hugging the little dragon back tight, "I went off with the computer to go find something I never should have forgotten."
"Well thank Faust that you're back..." Spike tightened his hug before letting her go, sitting down on the chair next to her, "that armor's pretty sweet too."
He grabbed the helmet and began looking all around it, poking the two, small rectangular eyes it had, "it could use a bit more color though."
Twilight chuckled and rolled her eyes at the little dragon, "oh yeah? Like what?"
"I don't know. But silver is just too boring." Spike said, putting the helmet back on the table.
Twilight chuckled again and began messing with Spike's head spikes, "alright Spike, I'll think about adding some color."
"Ms. Sparkle?" AIVHA said.
"Yes computer?" Twilight said.
"I have begun my search, and I have begun by looking for areas where the Four Rings are all rumored to be based, along with areas where multiple alleged sightings have been reported." AIVHA replied.
"Uh... Why are you looking for the Four Rings, Twilight?" Spike asked.
Twilight gulped and took a deep breath, she turned to Spike and let her breath out before she spoke. "Spike... Look. The thing I left behind... It's one of these." She pointed to her chest, where Spike knew her arc reactor was underneath, "and... if the Four Rings get a hold of it... Then they'll be practically unstoppable. With power as great as that..."
"S-So... You're going to tell the Council, right? A-And you're going to get them to send military soldiers to go look for this thing, right?" Spike said, his voice getting shakier the more he spoke.
".... If the Council were to get a hold of it then there's next to nothing they couldn't do... I... Spike, I just can't let power that great fall into the hooves of the Four Rings or the Council... They'll both abuse it. So I need to find it... Myself." Twilight answered, looking down as her voice got quiet the more she spoke.
"S-So what?? You're just going to go out there and probably get captured again because of it?" Spike said.
"No Spike, I won't get captured." Twilight replied, doing her best to sound sure of what she was saying. Truth is, she had no idea what would happen if she went hunting for the arc reactor.
"Well how?? That armor you're wearing??? Will that be enough to protect you??" Spike began breathing frantically, his eyes watery as he spoke, "I... Twilight... Please..."
"Spike... It's okay... I don't want to do this, and you clearly don't want me to do this... But it's the only way..." Twilight softly patted Spike on the back, who immediately jumped up to Twilight and wrapped his arms around her tightly.
"Please... At least make the armor stronger or something... Don't let them get you again... Please..." Spike whispered.
"I promise Spike... Don't worry, I promise."
Twilight sat down on her chair in her office, Spike standing next to her and climbing up on her desk as a screen rose, showing Twilight a large list of areas the Four Rings are said to be hiding.
"And these are all of them," she asked, "you're absolutely positive?"
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle, these are all of the locations where the Four Rings have been rumored to have been sighted, and be stationed at."
Twilight sat back in her chair and looked over to her armor, which was standing on it's hind legs with its forearms extended out to it's sides. "Computer," she said, "if we're going to do this we'll need a lot of protection. So would you please take the armor and add in more layers of armor? Make it comfortable, but still strong enough to stop gunfire and missiles."
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle." AIVHA said.
"Thank you."
"Oh!" Spike jumped up, "and add some color to it!"
"Color?" Twilight said, "Spike, this is armor. Not a dress to make look nice."
"But you can at least add some color to it. It won't take long to add at all." Spike replied.
Twilight sighed and shook her head at Spike, ruffling his mohawk, "Okay then, go tell AIVHA what colors you want and how you want it designed. I'm going upstairs. We'll go out looking for these groups tomorrow, alright computer?"
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle." AIVHA said as Twilight turned and trotted upstairs, a knock echoing through the halls from her front door.
"Who could that be?" She wondered to herself as she approached the large doorway, placing her hoof in the door slot and turning it, opening the door and revealing her friends standing there with small smiles on their faces.
"Girls!" Twilight smiled back as she opened the door wider, letting them inside. "What are you all doing here?"
"Well, we thought that maybe we could just come by and check in on you. How are you doing with the proto-thing you're making?" Rainbow said, flying inside backwards and leaning back in the air, holding her head in her arms.
"O-Oh! Heh... Well, it's going!" Twilight said, a big, nervous grin on her face, "I'm making some progress. I just need to find a better battery for it."
"Well how about you take a little break?" Rainbow said.
"Yes darling, we all were hoping that you were free for today, and we could all go out for lunch together without an interruption? But if you're still working then we completely understand darling." Rarity added.
"No, I'm free. We can go now." Twilight said, "even though I still need something to actually show to the Council!" And just then, Twilight felt a lightbulb turn on.
"That's it!!" Twilight exclaimed, taking off for her office while her friends stood at the door, confused as to why Twilight had run off.
Twilight burst into her office and immediately called out for AIVHA, who responded back just as quickly.
"Computer, I need you to draw up plans for a rifle, but the ammunition is made from rubber!" Twilight said.
"Rubber bullets, Ms. Sparkle?" AIVHA asked.
"Yes, it'll fire just the same as a regular gun, but it'll just harm them, not kill." Twilight said.
"Why didn't you just make that instead of the thrusters?" Spike said, crossing his arms and leaning against the door frame.
Twilight stopped and looked at Spike, then looked to the right, "I wanted to make something that could have multiple uses Spike, but I guess now I'll have to make this."
Spike rolled his eyes, "Yeah, alright, I guess that's what you have to say now that you already made them in the last one."
Twilight simply looked to Spike in complete confusion, unable to fully comprehend what exactly Spike had meant. She eventually shook her head, ignoring Spike for the moment as she turned back to AIVHA, who was already holding down blueprints of various guns, but each designed to fire rubber bullets, and at to fire at a greater force to allow them to cause damage enough to severely injure, but avoid casualties.
"Alright, good job computer." Twilight said, turning to her friends, "sorry girls, I just have a lot on my mind right now."
"Don't worry about it Twilight, we understand," Rainbow said, "now let's hurry and get some grub! I'm starving!"
Twilight and the rest shared a short laugh which Rainbow joined in on, and the group of mares left, Spike staying behind and reading more of his comic books.
Twilight returned late in the afternoon, finishing her hayburger as she walked to her castle. She had used magic to hold items for most of her life, and now she was struggling to get used to the machine with an arm attached to her side, holding her hayburger to her right.
She scanned her hoof and the door unlocked, opening itself for her as Twilight took another, quite large, bite out of her hayburger. She saw a small, holographic ball float down to her, greeting AIVHA with a nod as she finished her bite.
"Welcome back, Ms. Sparkle. I assume you and your friends had a fine time?" AIVHA asked.
"Yeah, it was fun," she responded, swallowing her bite and continuing down the hall to the stairs to her lab, "the girls and I need to go out more often. Well, after we figure out what's going on with Rainbow Dash."
"Ms. Dash is troubled?" AIVHA asked.
"Eh, she's something alright. Really jumpy." Twilight replied, stepping down the steps into her lab, seeing the suit she wore standing in the center of the lab, under a cloak, Spike laying down next to it and snoring softly.
"Spike wanted it to be a surprise, and so he put the cloak on it." AIVHA explained.
"Awww, that's nice." Twilight looked down to the sleeping dragon, who currently had his thumb in his mouth and was sucking on it softly.
"Please put him on my back computer?" Twilight said.
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle." AIVHA lowered an arm down from the ceiling, which gently picked up the baby dragon and placed him down on Twilight's back, the Body Aid around her opening up and then closing, keeping Spike from falling off her back.
Twilight trotted up the stairs and to Spike's room, the small dragon snoring softly during the journey there.
Twilight turned around and opened up her Body Aid and dropping Spike down on his bed, turning around as it closed to bite down on his blanket and put it over him.
She smiled and closed the door, turning the dragon's light off as she did, returning to her lab.
"Do you wish to turn in for the night, Ms. Sparkle?" AIVHA asked.
"No, computer. The longer we wait, the closer they could be to discovering something about the Arc. A way to use it for their own purposes. And I can't have that." Twilight said, trotting to her armor, biting down on the sheet. She removed the sheet and then turned to her armor, shocked to see the colors Spike had chosen.
The armor was the shade of purple as Twilight's coat, but it had two lines going down from the neck to the arc, circling around it, and stopping at her legs, one line was orange and the other was blue. The back had a similar pattern, except it didn't stop to circle around an arc, and instead went straight down, one line was yellow while the other was white. And finally, the plates holding the armor together was pink.
Twilight stepped back, admiring the armor as a soft smile grew.
"Spike knew you would love it," AIVHA said, "and it turns out he was right."
Twilight nodded and trotted to the armor, taking a while to walk around it, admiring it, before telling AIVHA to open it up, allowing Twilight to enter the armor. She struggled and groaned as she was on her back hooves, but sighed in relief as the torso area closed and tightened, along with some areas around her hind legs, allowing her to stay up straight without problem.
"Alright, have you found specific locations for the Four Rings?" Twilight asked.
"I have found only a few that I can confirm through extensive and careful examination through the Sparkle Industries satellite photographs taken throughout the years, though the rest are merely simple speculation." AIVHA said.
"Well we'll have to take the chance" Twilight said, her helmet closing and her voice modulator activating.
Twilight turned as AIVHA opened the exit from the lab, Twilight activating the thrusters and flying out of the lab as smooth as she could, feeling relieved for the freedom as she was outside.
She flew high into the air as the holographic screen in her helmet showed her a list of several locations, AIVHA speaking to Twilight as the list appeared.
"These are the locations which I believe are bases for the Four Rings, Ms. Sparkle." AIVHA explained.
Twilight took a close look at the list as it passed by, nodding when the list was complete, "Alright, you'll know where exactly to go to computer. So let's get to the places we are most certain are bases for the Four Rings, capture the members we find there, search the whole base, and then turn the members into the police force of that country."
"Very well Ms. Sparkle, I have locked our course onto the closest base." AIVHA said, the suit turning up, flying upside down opposite where they were going before flipping around, flying Twilight towards a mountainous region of Equestria.
The two guards posted outside were sitting opposite each other, both had sweat drops flowing down their foreheads as they looked each other in the eyes, both of them studying each others faces for the slightest sign of facial expression that could give them an advantage.
The one on the left's ears perked up, hearing something whooshing in the distance. The other heard the noise as well, and took a quick look to the right, seeing nothing, and then returning to their game.
The one on the right squinted his eyes before speaking, "Do you have any fours?"
The other groaned and used his magic to hand over one of his cards, leaving him with two as the other chuckled, taking one of his cards out and putting the two removed cards together in a pile to his left.
"Well do you have any-" The stallion was interrupted by a whirring noise, followed by a large beam that fired at him from his right, sending him hitting the wall, leaving him dazed and rubbing his head. His friend turned to see where the beam had came from, and saw a colored, metal pony floating above the ground in front of the cave, staring directly at him.
"... I'd like to hurt as little ponies as possible, so if you could just sit next to your friend and let my computer tie you up, that would be great." The pony said with it's robotic voice.
The stallion nodded and moved to sit down next to his friend, still dazed and holding his head. Then the metal pony moved quickly, tying both of the guards together tightly with rope.
"Now, if you guys leave or try to escape, then I'll be forced to hit you with my thrusters again. And I'd rather not do that, so please just stay here and wait for me to get back. Thank you." The pony's hooves fired beams that made the pony float up, then it turned to the cave and flew inside.
The two could hear gunshots from inside the cave, along with screams and sounds of the beam firing. Then, moments later, there was nothing. Just absolute silence. It was like this for several minutes, but then the two heard another loud whirr from the cave, and the metal pony flew out of the cave, one of it's hooves holding onto a rope, carrying the rest of the Four Rings members.
"Oh, you're still here! Good, I wasn't kidding when I said I didn't want to hurt anypony I didn't have to," the pony said, it's other hoof somehow grabbing onto the end of the rope they were attached to, "unfortunately your friends weren't so willing to stop. And don't worry about falling, the suit's hooves have tiny spikes that grab onto any surface they touch, unwilling to let them go unless I were to allow it."
The stallion who could still see straight and wasn't dazed nodded, nervously chuckling as the pony began floating up, taking them with it as they flew towards the closest town, being dropped of at the entrance to the police station, a single police officer trotting outside and looking up, seeing the metal pony.
"They're all yours." Twilight said, looking upwards and flying off.
"Alright computer," Twilight said when she flew high up into the air, "now let's get back to the base and find out whatever we can."
Twilight turned around and flew at full speed to the cave, slowing down quickly as she approached it, causing her to lose her balance slightly before finally getting used to the speed, reaching the end of the tunnel and stopping, looking around the small room before her filled with computers, boxes of weapons, and more. She stepped into the room and towards a computer, leaning over it and sighing at seeing it locked.
"Give me a moment, Ms. Sparkle, and I can unlock the computer" AIVHA said, various images, text and lines of code appearing in front of Twilight's face on the holographic screen.
"Alright, and let me out. I'll go around and look to see if they have the arc." Twilight said, stepping out of the suit as it opened.
She looked around the room, before trotting to a table covered with various papers. She looked over the papers and saw several blueprints, including some that were clearly the Four Rings trying to replicate several of weapons made by Sparkle Industries.
She moved the blueprints and other papers around, reading them over. She kept seeing the words, 'group', 'bosses', 'big guy in charge' various times in the papers, which were simply status reports on recreating Sparkle Industries' weaponry.
So there must be multiple ponies that have the Four Rings wrapped around their hooves then... Who could these ponies be? She thought, finding another paper from a more recent date, talking about process with the arc reactor that Twilight had made. She read they had made little progress in harnessing it, but were certain they were close to hitting a breakthrough, all they needed was for the 'big guy in charge' to have a little more patience.
Twilight bit down onto this piece of paper, planning on keeping this one. She continued looking over the papers on the table before her ear twitched, her head turning as she heard a small beeping noise.
She kept quiet, hearing another soft beeping, and then another one which was followed by another one, the time between each beep getting shorter and shorter.
"Computer!!" Twilight screamed out, AIVHA stopping immediately and turning around, "We need to get out of here!!!"
Twilight sprinted to the door of the room as the suit flew to her, "Jump, Ms. Sparkle!" AIVHA said.
Twilight jumped and the suit scooped her up, closing shut when she was inside, and flying at full speed out of the cave, the entire room filling with flames that followed Twilight and AIVHA as they flew out, both of them escaping just in time.
The suit stopped and turned around, looking at the flames erupting from the tunnel before dying down.
"Holy cow... That was close..." Twilight said, panting in her suit. Her helmet opened and the paper she was biting onto fell, but Twilight caught it easily.
"Did you figure anything out through their computer?" Twilight asked.
"Nothing, Ms. Sparkle. Their databases are much more difficult to hack into than I had thought. It suggests that they are controlled by somepony very intelligent." AIVHA responded.
"Darn... Well all I got was this paper, it's just a progress report. Apparently they're having trouble working on the arc, but they think they'll eventually get somewhere." Twilight said, looking at the piece of paper she held in her hoof, "... How did that place even blow up anyways?"
"They must have found me trying to get into their database, and chose to cause the base to self destruct instead of let us see what they had." AIVHA replied.
"Alright... But hey, we still have more bases to search before sun rise. Let's just get those done and get back home." Twilight said.
"Right, Ms. Sparkle." AIVHA said.
Twilight turned and flew off towards the nearest base AIVHA had located.
Three bases in one night doesn't sound like it'd be a very difficult task, but each base had a very annoying habit of blowing up each time AIVHA had tried to enter their databases.
Twilight sighed in relief as her suit opened up, and she put all four hooves down on the ground. Her eyelids were struggling to stay open, begging for her to lay down and take a rest.
"Goodnight computer..." She tiredly said, yawning as she did.
Twilight made the journey up the stairs and to her room, feeling herself leaning and nearly falling over as she did, but she eventually made it to her bed and laid down right as her eyes shut... For about 30 minutes before Spike came running in through the door, yelling out to her.
"Twilight!" The little dragon said, "did you like the suit?? Did you?"
Twilight's mane was all over the place, several parts of it sticking upwards. Her eyes remained shut as she bolted upwards, desperately looking around the room for the source of the yelling. "W-w-whaaa...?" She tiredly mumbled.
"Oh. Geez Twilight, you look like you've stayed up all night!" Spike said.
Twilight stretched her arms and let out a long yawn, her eyes opening finally and she turned to Spike, "y-yeah Spike...?"
"I said did you like the suit's colors!" Spike repeated.
"O-Oh yeah! The armor... Yes Spike... I saw it... I love it Spike, thank you..." Twilight said, slowly falling back to sleep once more.
"Twilight!" Spike said, "Come on! You need to get up!"
"Why...? Why can't I just sleep all day, every day...?" Twilight mumbled.
"Because AIVHA finished the models for the weapons you asked it to make!" Spike said, pulling on Twilight, her head and arm hanging over the side of the bed.
Twilight groaned as she slowly slid downwards, hitting her head against the ground, "Ow..." she mumbled. She flip herself over onto her stomach, groaning loudly as she stood herself up, her legs shaking and her eyes struggling to stay open.
"I-I'm up... I'm up..." She said, standing up straight and rubbing her eyes.
"Good, now let's go!!" Spike said, pulling on Twilight's hoof.
"I-I'm still waking up Spike!" Twilight said, pulling against Spike.
"You can do that later, you've gotta check out what AIVHA made!" Spike said, leading Twilight down to her lab, where AIVHA's holographic ball was waiting.
"I apologize for Spike waking you up, Ms. Sparkle. But I just thought you would wish to know how the weapon's production was going along." AIVHA said.
"Y-Yeah sure... Show me computer. I'm paying attention." Twilight said, opening her eyes finally.
AIVHA raised an arm from the floor that carried a standard assault rifle, but one Twilight had asked AIVHA to create to fire bullets made of rubber instead of live rounds.
AIVHA fired the gun, it shooting a dummy, knocking the dummy down and leaving it with no visible holes.
Twilight rubbed her eyes and walked to the dummy, yawning as she leaned her head down and took a closer look, examining the point of impact on the dummy. "How's the inside looking?" She asked.
"The inside structures seem to all be intact." AIVHA responded.
"Alright... Alright, good." Twilight said, yawning, "now Spike, keep out of trouble, and computer, keep working..."
Twilight continued upstairs, stopping at the top to call down to Spike, "and don't wake me up unless it's something that absolutely can't wait!"
Twilight was about to enter her room before she heard a knock on the door, groaning loudly as she trotted to the door, opening it quickly and ready to scream, but quickly shut her mouth when she saw a mail pony there, smiling softly until he saw Twilight's messy mane and groggy eyes.
"O-Oh! Uh... Hello there!" Twilight said nervously, grinning.
"I, uh... Have a letter for you Ms. Sparkle." The mail pony said, hoofing Twilight a letter with her Body Aid.
"O-Oh... T-Thank you!" Twilight called to the pony as he flew away quickly.
Twilight sighed and closed the door, turning around and looking down to the letter. Her name was on it, and turning it around and opening it showed Twilight a little piece of paper. Twilight pulled it out and read it aloud.
"You, Twilight Sparkle," she started, "are hereby invited to attend a party to properly celebrate your return to Equestria that you should have gotten the first day. So please come to Canterlot this Friday evening, forget your meeting with the Council for an evening, and instead enjoy fine dining and the company of close friends and those who care about you from all across Equus." Twilight looked down to the bottom of the letter and her heart skipped a beat, her mind not truly being able to comprehend that she was reading, "signed, Ms. Trixie Lulamoon" |
Iron Mare | A Nuisance in the Plans | Trixie rubbed her temples and groaned, the lack of sleep finally getting to her as her eyelids were starting to droop, and she would doze off at random.
She turned to look out her office's window, seeing several workers surrounding the giant, silver suit they had recovered, along with the arc reactor they had found with Whoo-.... Weapon Y's... Help...
Trixie's mind kept going back to thoughts of what exactly her boss had done to Whooves to warp him into this new thing. This... Shell of what he once was. She could remember sitting in the cave, looking for the arc with her team, and then seeing the brown stallion walk directly to her, his eyes searching the entire room, as if there was something he was specifically looking for.
She could see his eyes were blank, and his mind was clearly broken by whatever her boss had done to him. She couldn't bring herself to think about what he had done. He had already showed how ruthless he was when he ordered Twilight's horn and wings to be sawed off.
She stared intensely at the desk, remembering the day she and her boss first met. The promise of revenge on Twilight Sparkle was an enticing offer, and so she agreed. But she shouldn't have... She should have listened to that tiny voice at the back of her head that was telling her to turn away and decline, but was now telling her, 'I told you so'.
The next thing she knew she was being forced to run a group of terrorists, fillynapping scientists to create weapons, soldiers, anything that could be used to overthrow Equestria.
Trixie was just a normal mare, one who was working on getting past what had happened, but still felt the burning anger and the looks from ponies. The looks that would tell her they remembered, they remembered the day Twilight embarrassed her in front of the whole town.
She was just promised a little bit of harmless revenge, a little poke in Twilight's back for what she did... But that wasn't what he had planned at all.
She turned back to her desk and continued watching the footage her boss had sent to her, with the simple text next to it saying, "I'll call you when I'm free". The footage was just the same thing, a shaky camera from one of her Four Rings' henchmen as they ran through their compound, but it occasionally stopped and looked around, allowing Trixie to see a figure fly by quick, looking almost like a bullet flying by the screen through the sky. The footage then shows the figure land, a multi-colored pony made of metal standing on it's hind legs in front of the henchmen, then it raises it's arm and hits them with a beam that knocks them back
The camera can still see a minute more of footage, as it shows a tank drive over to the pony as it flies through the air, but then is knocked out of the sky and crashes hard against the ground. The pony quickly gets up and turns, lifting up and flying to the tank, landing on it and ripping the door open as it throws the door to, and past, the camera. The pony reaches in and somehow manages to grab the pony inside with it's hooves.
It flies off and lands in front of the camera, putting the pony down and then turning around, shooting something from it's shoulders that eventually causes the tank to explode after a few seconds. And then the footage cuts right there, only to repeat the footage again.
Trixie was about to stretch when she heard her desk begin to whirr softly, Trixie jumping up from the sudden noise. Her desk then showed a screen, showing the dark silhouette of her boss.
"B-Boss... I... I wasn't expecting to hear from you for a couple days." Trixie said, sitting straight up, "I-I would have-"
"What have you been doing??" The figure began shouting, making Trixie jump nearly a whole foot out of her chair, "I thought I told you I don't tolerate failure!"
"I-I don't-" Trixie began.
"You don't what?? Clearly even you can't be so unintelligent that you cannot even recognize several of your own headquarters are all disappearing!" The figure shouted to her again, a few of Trixie's workers outside her office faintly hearing this shouting and turning to see where it was coming from, but eventually they just shrugged it off and continued their work.
"Oh... You mean that iron pony..." Trixie said, then she jumped as a newspaper dropped down on her desk, the scientist who dropped it quickly leaving the room as soon as Trixie looked up to him.
"This "Iron Mare", as the newspapers have so lovingly decided to call her, has constantly been assaulting your bases, turning your soldiers into the authorities!" The figure said, their anger beginning to grow to the point where Trixie thought that she would start seeing steam emanating from their head at any moment, "what have you been doing???"
"W-Well we've been so busy with the suit and the arc... I-I've been sending more troops to each base, b-but they're always stopped by this iron pony!"
"I don't care about your excuses! I've had it with them!" The pony leaned back, taking in a deep breath, calming himself down, "Trixie... When you and I had our little agreement to work together, you promised me that you would work to the best of your abilities. Now, does THIS SEEM LIKE IT'S TO THE BEST OF YOUR ABILITIES?!"
Trixie sighed and remained silent, simply shaking her head as a reply. "But how do you know this pony is a mare?" She asked.
"Because Twilight Sparkle's AI is the only AI in the world who could possibly hack into our computers that fast. But... It still isn't fast enough before it activates our failsafe systems." The figure explained.
"So... It's... Twilight Sparkle? She's this 'Iron Mare'?" Trixie asked.
"Precisely."
Trixie sat back, letting out a breath she wasn't aware she held in, and turned from the screen, wiping her eyes of tears that were beginning to form, and then turned back to the figure.
"Now, I expect Twilight Sparkle to be dead by tomorrow! You'll finally get your revenge I promised you. And... To make sure you won't slack off, I've sent a little somepony there to greet you." The caller ended the call before Trixie could even have the chance to think about what her reply would be.
"Who could they have sent to help me?" Trixie thought to herself. Just then, she heard a knock at the door. Deep and heavy, as if the pony on the other side was trying to hold back punching the door off the hinges.
The door opened and Trixie's eyes grew, her pupils shrinking to the size of small dots as she saw Dr. Whooves, her boss' latest slave walk through, a dead and evil expression as he walked in, looking around at the room, a large bag strapped to his back.
He walked to her desk, and grabbed the bag with his teeth, putting it down on her desk, then opening it, showing a large arsenal of guns, each of them made with designs similar to weapons Twilight's created. Trixie looked up from the weapons to Whooves, who just sneered at her.
"The boss already sent a letter to the target, whoever it is, to meet for a party at the Council building. So get ready for tomorrow." He said in a dead, monotone voice.
"T-Tomorrow," Trixie said, "why didn't he give me more time??"
"He expects you to always be prepared. So shut up, get there, and tell me who to shoot. And here," he passed a note to her that was in his bag, "boss wanted you to read that over."
Trixie took the note with her magic and opened it, Whooves grabbing his bag, closing it, and leaving.
"Trixie," the note read, "I have sent Weapon W over to you to help you get rid of our problem. I expect you to keep Twilight Sparkle's back turned to him so he can properly take the shot without the possibility of remembering her. He's a tricky one to keep on our side, but since he's the only available assassin we have, he'll have to do. Now don't fuck this up."
Trixie gulped as she finished the last line, then placing the note down on her desk in its envelope. She turned to her workers and saw them continuing to work on the suit, seeing they were nearly complete. The whole suit was built, and now they were just ready to put the arc reactor on as well as the rest of the helmet and left arm.
She got up from her chair and walked to her closet, opening it and she began searching through her dresses to find a dress to set aside for the party, praying that time would slow so the party wouldn't come as fast.
Much to her pleasure, the days seemed to come and go quick, and it wasn't long before Twilight found herself putting on her old Gala dress, her and her friends each trying on their dresses for the party at Moondancer's house, who was also trying on a dress Rarity had made for her.
"Oh, we all look simply divine darlings! Our dresses from the Gala never cease to amaze me!" Rarity said, her eyes sparkling as she continued to gaze at her friends in their Gala dresses.
"Yeah, the dresses are beautiful Rarity," Moondancer said with a smile, "thank you for making this for me."
"Oh, of course darling. Anything for a dear friend of Twilight." Rarity replied with a point to Twilight, smiling softly as she saw Rarity pointing to her.
"Though I really wish you'd keep your work at home Twilight," Rarity said, nodding to Spike, next to AIVHA's holographic ball, both of which were next to a large curtain made into a cylinder shape that, little to their knowledge, held Twilight's suit inside, "this is a party Twilight, a time for you to celebrate being back home in Equestria!"
"I know girls, but it's almost done. I swear." Twilight said, turning to AIVHA, "right computer?"
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle. Your prototype is nearly complete." AIVHA responded.
"Alright, now let's hurry and get to the party! It's going to be so awesome!" Rainbow said, jumping up and down excitedly by the door.
Twilight and the rest trotted over to Rainbow, each checking their dresses to make sure they were on properly.
"Twilight," Spike said from behind, running up to Twilight.
Twilight leaned down and Spike whispered in her ear, "what do you want us to do with the suit after AIVHA is done updating it and fixing it up?"
"Just keep it where it is, and don't touch it." Twilight whispered back into his ear.
"Uhhh.... What are you two whispering about?" Rainbow asked, each of Twilight's friends looking at them.
"Ah, Spike was just asking about the new weapon that I'm making to show the Council tomorrow. Asking stuff about where to store it when the computer is done creating it."
"Ah, well come on! The party's going to start soon!" Applejack said, Rainbow opening the door as they all run off without Twilight to the carriage.
"Alright, don't worry, I'll be back." Twilight said, turning and trotting to the carriage with her friends. The door closed as soon as she entered and sat down, and it begun on it's way.
"Why did you not wish to go to the party, Spike?" AIVHA asked.
"Well there's gotta be someone to open the door for Twilight next time." Spike simply said, causing AIVHA to grow confused as to what exactly he meant as he walked away, whistling, "because she doesn't do well under pressure sometimes." |
Iron Mare | Titanium vs Iron | Twilight looked around at the swarm of party guests, seeing a swarm of nobles from across the world, all of them gathered here to celebrate Twilight's return to Equestria. They all were swarming her at the start, obviously, and it took the intervention of Celestia to get them to back off a bit.
"So, why isn't Spike here celebrating?" Celestia asked as the latest nobles to speak to Twilight and welcome her back walked away.
"Oh... He said something about opening doors." Twilight said, Celestia turning with a puzzled look.
"So... I see the Council is really making it their job to get well acquainted with the party guests." Twilight said, gesturing to Fleur De Lis and her husband, Fancy Pants, chatting with some party guests, while the other two Council members chatted and laughed at a table of a previously alone guest.
"Well Fleur does love any chance to improve her publicity," Celestia replied, "must be why she even bothered giving you a chance to make non-lethal weaponry in the first place. Oh, how bad would it have looked for her to have turned you down. So, how have things been in Ponyville with you girls?"
"Eh, Twilight and us haven't really hung out that much." Rainbow replied.
"Yeah, she's just been all cooped up in her castle, working on whatever it is she's got in there." Applejack added.
"Ah, but it's completely alright darling, we understand that you wish to prove to the Council that you can create non-lethals." Rarity added upon seeing Twilight somewhat wince from Rainbow and Applejack's comments.
"Yeah Twilight, we completely understand." Fluttershy added, putting her hoof on Twilight's shoulder.
"So Celestia? My letter I received... It said that this party was orchestrated by Lulamoon Corps., which means... Trixie's back?" Twilight said, turning to the princess.
Celestia looked down to Twilight, then sighed and turned back to gaze upon the crowd.
"Yes, Twilight. It seems that, after three years of silence, Trixie has finally done something publicly," She said, "and I think it's great. Because she came back, and orchestrated something with the Council, all for this very moment."
Twilight smiled softly as Celestia said that, and the thought of Trixie was in the back of her mind, and then she began taking a closer look at the crowd, "So will she even show up? I mean... It's not really sensible if you plan a party for somepony and then don't show up without telling why."
Celestia was about to open her mouth when Fleur and her husband walked up, Fleur greeting Twilight with her typical friendly greeting that Twilight could see right through. Fleur was angry. And she could see from the way that Fleur looked at the whole party, that she was angry at the party and most likely at Trixie herself.
"Ah! Twilight! My, my, you look quite amazing!" She said, Twilight mentally rolling her eyes at her fake greeting before giving one of her own.
"Ah, Fleur! Thank you, and I have to say that you look quite lovely too!" Twilight said.
"So, I see that all of your friends are here with you." Fleur said, looking to Twilight's friend, and stopping at Moondancer, who was at the other side of the table, her head somewhat lowered as if in fear.
"Ah, well who is this?" Fancy Pants asked, causing Moondancer to squeal a little bit.
"Moondancer? She's another friend of mine." Twilight answered.
"Ah, Moondancer then. Greetings! I hope you're enjoying the party!" Fleur said, stopping her husband from greeting himself.
"S-So, Ms. Twilight, I've noticed that one of your friends is missing. And it's been all over the news. I'm terribly sorry for the disappearance for your friend, Pinkamena."y Fancy Pants said.
Twilight sighed and nodded, "thank you Fancy, that means a lot. My big brother is on the case right now, but I'm just kinda worried because of all the new cases that have been showing up all across Equestria recen-"
Twilight's train of thought was quickly derailed as soon as she saw a pony behind Fancy Pants and his wife. A light blue pony, with an even lighter shade of blue for her mane, which was carefully done in small waves. Her dress was a shade of purple that instantly reminded Twilight of the cape Trixie loved to wear, with a decor of small stars across it, some even shaping constellations. Underneath that was a light blue addition that also had small star decor at the end. Her eyelashes were done in a color of pink similar to that of Fleur's own mane, light pink at the top, with a somewhat darker shade at the bottom. And her hooves each had a bracelet, with a star at the front. And what was holding the entire dress together was a small, diamond shaped clip.
"T-Trixie...?" Twilight slowly said, unable to fully believe that she was seeing Trixie standing there, about five feet away from her.
Trixie sighed deeply, closing her eyes as she quickly put on a smile, opening her eyes as she walked closer to Twilight, Fancy Pants moving out of her way as she walked.
"Hello... Twilight." She said with a smile.
Twilight wrapped her hooves around Trixie with a big smile, squealing as she did.
"I can't believe you're here Trixie! I-I-Thank you, for organizing this party for one. And two, what happened?? Why haven't you been so silent for three whole years?" Twilight said to Trixie, who gulped at the last two questions.
"W-Well Lulamoon Corporation made a deal with a much bigger company three years ago. And they're incredibly strict, you see. So it only took until recently for us all to finally work out some agreements about how we'll all act to benefit each other." Trixie said, smiling still as she nervously tapped her back hoof against the floor.
Trixie looked up to the ceiling, taking a quick look around as she tried to pass it off as if she was stretching, which worked, thankfully.
"Oh... That's it?" Twilight asked.
Trixie nodded, chuckling softly. She saw movement from the ceiling from her right eye, and she quickly took a peek, seeing a dark figure moving through the area up above, Trixie able to see the figure up above through the hole that allowed those upstairs to peek downward onto the lower level.
"Yeah, that's it," Trixie said, "so... I heard you recently escaped imprisonment by the terrorist group known as the Four Rings."
"Ah, you heard right." Twilight said, frowning slightly, "but I'd much rather put that behind me, if you don't mind."
"Of course Twilight, I completely understand." Trixie said, her eyes lowering to the light purple glow from Twilight's dress, Trixie instantly knowing what it was as her eyes quickly went back up to Twilight's face.
"So, how are you Trixie?" Rainbow asked, "the last time we saw you, you were just starting out your very own business for magic tricks."
"Ah, I've never been better Rainbow Dash." Trixie replied.
"We're glad you decided to come back Trixie, ya wouldn't know how many of us were concerned about you." Applejack chimed in.
"Yes, we were all wondering what had happened to make you hide." Fluttershy said.
"Well, I'm glad to be back. And I hope that we can all continue being friends." Trixie said, "after all, it would be a spit in the face of the pony who helped me."
"Of course we can Trixie," Twilight said, "and after this, you and I can work together. Over the years I've thought of some ideas over how you and I can work together for more magic tricks and spellbooks your company creates.
"Of course Twilight, that sounds wonderful." Trixie said, smiling warmly as she felt her eyes water up, holding back the tears as she felt overjoyed by finally being back, but the back of her mind was reminding her about what she was really doing at this party."
Twilight spoke more as Trixie heard a voice coming from her headset, carefully hidden behind her hair. "I'm in position. Just keep her back turned to me and this'll be a quick, clean shot."
Trixie sighed again softly, shakily, immediately regretting it as it came out louder and more noticeable than she planned.
"Trixie? What's wrong?" Twilight said, concerned.
"Yeah, you okay sugarcube?" Applejack added.
"I-I'm fine, really guys." Trixie said, her face going back to smiling and warm, as a single tear broke free and rolled down her face.
Twilight's brows furrowed as she saw the tear, turning her head behind her to see if it was something Trixie was looking at.
"T-Twilight!!" Trixie said quickly, Twilight looking back still and then turning to Trixie, "Trixie, what's wrong?"
Meanwhile, the figure Trixie saw earlier was staring straight through the scope of his rifle. He was unmoving, and it was aimed to the back of Twilight's head, and he was about to pull the trigger, if it hadn't been for Twilight turning and showing her face.
The figure continued staring through the scope, but spoke softly. "T-Trixie... T-This target," he could see Trixie gulp, "who is she...?"
Trixie chuckled and then spoke loud enough for the whole party to hear, "T-Twilight!!"
The assassin, Whooves, stopped dead, still looking through the scope of his rifle as the purple mare turned the back of her head to him.
"T-Trixie...?" He struggled to say, breathing heavily, "T-Twilight... Twilight... Why... What... Why do I know that name... Why do I... Trixie??? TRIXIE?!?! TWILIGHT! WHO IS SHE TRIXIE?!?!"
Trixie's eyes grew wide as she, and the rest of the party, heard a voice coming from above them beginning to yell. It continued shouting out Trixie and Twilight's names until the Royal Guard dragged the stallion down to the main party room.
"TRIXIE! TELL ME WHO SHE IS! WHO IS SHE?!" Whooves continued yelling, allowing the Royal Guard to drag him down to the main room.
"Princess, we've found the cause of the noise along with a few of his party gifts." One of the guards said, another one with a large duffel bag walking up and dropping it, opening it up to show several different type of guns.
Twilight was taken back at seeing them, along with everypony else at the party, and Twilight definitely couldn't believe that she was watching her friend, Whooves, scream at the top of his lungs, crying out to Trixie of all ponies.
Twilight turned to look at Trixie, who by now was the main focused of the entire party, as everypony stared at Trixie with shock, whispers were heard from the crowd, all of them calling Trixie a liar, a thief, a murderer, and many more.
"T-Trixie," Twilight managed to say, "W-What's going on here...?"
Trixie gazed over to Whooves, who was still yelling atop his lungs, and began shaking slightly, her eyes darting all across the room as she began backing away slowly. One of the Royal Guard shouted something, and that was the spark that caused the whole room to explode into an uproar, ponies shouting as the Guard pushed past them, sprinting to Trixie, who yelled and sprinted away, her horn flashing as she tried to cast a teleportation spell.
"Oh no you don't!" Celestia yelled, casting a spell of her own, summoning a magical wall in front of Trixie, stopping her from casting her spell as she ran through it. Her horn only shooting sparks as she struggled to cast her spell.
"Trixie!!" Twilight called out to her, sprinting after her with the guard as Celestia called to Twilight to stop.
"Twilight! Let the Guard handle her!" Celestia said.
Twilight ignored her teacher and her friends as they called to her, sprinting after Trixie still, a mix of anger, confusion, betrayal running through her mind as she did. But it didn't take long for Twilight to eventually lose them, Trixie leading the guards through alleys after alleys trying to lose them, only for her to lose Twilight instead with the Guard still hot on her tail.
Twilight panted, leaning down and sitting on the street ground, the bottom of her dress covered in dirt from running through the alleys. "How... How am I going to find her now...?" Twilight asked herself, before a spark went off in her eye, signaling her having an idea.
"I'll have to think of an excuse for the silver pony being here... But I'm sure I can find Trixie with the suit's help!"
Twilight got up and began jogging back to Moondancer's home, panting heavily as the door opened as she stepped a foot in front of it.
"Welcome home Twilight. Need the suit?" Spike said, not looking up from a comic book he was holding.
"Uh... Y-Yeah. I do... How did you know?" Twilight asked, taken back by Spike asking such a question.
"The way it's written..." Spike looked up to Twilight, her face still one of confusion, "your face! Your face looks like the way it always looks when you're about to use the suit. And since you do, it's right beside you." Spike said again, rolling his eyes and walking away, burying his face back into his comic book again.
"Uhhh..." Twilight began as Spike walked out of the room, but then shook it off and rose one of her hooves, waving it aimlessly to her side, feeling for her suit before finding it.
"Ms. Sparkle, has something happened at the party?" AIVHA asked Twilight, who had unveiled her suit, and opened it up, taking a step inside with the suit, the suit closing shut as she steps inside.
"I... I saw Whooves... But he wasn't Whooves. He was something else, crazy... I think he tried to shoot somepony at the party." Twilight answered, her voice modulator activating near the end of her sentence.
"Your friend, Dr. Whooves? Ms. Sparkle, didn't you tell us that he had become deceased when you had made the escape from the cave you were held in by the Four Rings?" AIVHA asked.
Twilight nodded, "I thought he was... But I guess I was wrong... And Trixie knows just what's going on, so then if I find her I can find out who he was trying to kill, and why."
"Uh-huh, and if the Royal Guard ask you just what the Iron Mare is doing at Canterlot?" Spike asked.
"Well I'll just tell them I was already on this case for a while." Twilight said, walking to the back door of Moondancer's house, each step making a dull and loud thud, making the floorboards creak and make the three think that the floorboards were going to come down at any moment.
Twilight opened the door and closed it behind her, the sound of her thrusters activating is heard and she flies off.
"I do hope that Ms. Sparkle will be okay, do you believe she will Spike?" AIVHA asked.
Spike didn't look up from his comic book, but answered, "Yeah, she'll be fine. I'm still worried, but I have confidence that Twilight will be fine. She's got the suit, she can fight back. And honestly, with the stuff going on, she's going to need it and more."
Trixie panted heavily as she ran through the halls of her HQ in Canterlot, her dress dirty from running through the streets in her attempt to evade the guard, but to her misfortune the guard had kept their eye on her, following her no matter how many alleys she went down and no matter how many times she thought she lost them, they always just turned a corner that led them right to her.
She ran down the stairs, hearing the guard at the other end of the hallway she just left, making her groan as she continued down.
She then burst through the doors to the lab where her scientists were working on the suit that Twilight had used to escape, which made her stop, giving her an idea.
The guards burst through the door, all of them checking the area, and not seeing Trixie, and they slowed down.
"Alright, it doesn't look like there are any exist in this room. So she should be in this room, locked with us. You," the captain of the crew pointed to one soldier, "guard this door. Me and the others will search this place for her. And remember, she doesn't have the use of her magic, Princess Celestia blocked her horn. Now, spread out."
The guards all separated as they went deeper into the large lab, one guard checked the area with several computers, all of them attached to large wires that went to the far corner of the room. Another guard checked Trixie's office, several papers detailing several of them detailing Trixie's involvement with the Four Rings, and each one talking about a machine that would be used in the future to take over all of Equus.
"Men!" The captain of the crew called out from the far corner of the room. Following the wires, and the voice, the men eventually found themselves next to the captain, each of them staring directly at a giant armor, a body structure similar to that of a Minotaur, and flamethrowers where the hooves are.
"What... Is this thing?" One of the soldiers asked.
"A monstrosity." The captain of the crew said, "we need to contact Princess Celestia as soon as we're done here and let her know about this."
The suit was dark on the inside, and claustrophobic, Trixie breathing heavier with each second she spent trapped inside the silver contraption.
The soldiers then separated, going their separate ways throughout the room, except for a single soldier, who stayed in his spot in front of the suit, even slowly stepping closer, his eyes facing directly towards where Trixie was looking through the eye holes, and his head gently tilted to the left, as though he were listening for something.
Trixie tried to quiet her breaths, but the soldier continued moving closer, sweat slowly dripping down her forehead. The soldier's eyes grew wide and Trixie knew immediately that she had been caught.
The next thing she knew the arm of the suit was extended, and the soldier was screaming as he was flung backwards, hitting the wall on the far side of the room.
The soldiers all turned straight towards the giant suit, as it raised its arms, it's flamethrowers firing, each soldier running and/or hiding behind something as the machine made a single step, moving towards the door.
"She's trying to escape! Don't let her!" The captain said, moving from his spot, his horn glowing as he prepared to fire a blast of energy towards the machine.
Trixie quickly turned, firing towards the captain, who was quick to get out of the way. Trixie turned back around and walked out of the laboratory, taking the large filing cabinet next to her and dropping it in front of the door.
The captain ran to the door and turned on his trotty-talkie, "We found Trixie! She's leaving her HQ in a giant, metal suit. She is armed with flamethrowers and very dangerous!"
Twilight flew up into the air in her suit, looking around the city, "Computer, have you finished hacking into the Guards' communications?"
"Yes, Ms. Sparkle. And it appears they have found Ms. Lulamoon in her Headquarters for her company. They describe her being in a large, metal suit armed with flamethrowers."
Twilight's heart sank, "Oh Trixie... Please stop this..." Twilight flew off towards the Lulamoon Corp. HQ.
Trixie broke through the door, and looked up to the sky, "I just need to get far enough away." Trixie said to herself.
"Trixie!" A robotic voice called out, making her turn quickly, startled by the sudden cry. She saw a lavender, pony shaped figure land in front of her, standing on it's hind legs. Trixie looked at the suit and saw the lavender, the pink, the yellow, cyan, orange and white colors on it and knew instantly who it was.
"Twilight... You... You are the Iron Mare..." Trixie breathed out, still unable, or unwilling, to fully comprehend what she was seeing.
"Trixie, please. Stop this. Get out of the suit." Twilight held her hoof out towards her. "Please."
Trixie found her gaze stuck on Twilight's hoof, and for a second, she was about to open the suit, but then she heard the sounds of sirens, alarming her of the Royal Guard's advance.
"I... I can't Twilight... I just... I just can't!" Trixie held her arm back and then swung it towards Twilight, hitting her head on with the back of her hoof, knocking Twilight back far, crashing into one of the Guard's cruisers.
"T-Trixie!" Twilight coughed as she fell from the hood of the vehicle. Twilight stood back up and looked to Trixie, who's arm was raised, flamethrower at the ready.
"Stay away from me, Sparkle! I mean it! I can't go with you!" Trixie said, "Now let me go!"
"... I'm sorry Trixie... But I can't." Twilight's pulse reactors on her hooves began glowing, "Now please... Just come with me. Or I'll be forced to make you. Please don't force me to make you."
Trixie remained silent, but released a missile from her arm, Twilight instantly raising her hand and firing a beam towards it, instantly detonating it. The detonation caused Trixie to stumble back slightly, and Twilight's pulse reactors on her bottom hooves fired, allowing Twilight to jump forward, knocking her hoof directly onto Trixie's helmet.
Trixie fell down onto the ground, and then activated her shoulder missiles, which turned and shot towards Twilight, hitting her helmet and knocking her far back. Twilight managed to start up her blasters just in time, catching herself in mid-air.
Trixie picked up a parked auto carriage next to her and threw it, Twilight being knocked back by the projectile.
Twilight hit the ground and Trixie started up her bottom hooves' blasters, flying up to escape the city.
"No! Trixie!" Twilight cried out, starting up her own blasters and flying after her, knocking into her, causing the two to fall and crash onto the ground.
The two landed next to Spike's favorite donut shop. Twilight groaned as she struggled getting up, but Trixie was already up, and kicked Twilight with her bottom hoof, sending her flying to the side into the next building across the street, an auto carriage hitting her as she hit the wall.
"Computer-"
"The building is uninhabited, Ms. Sparkle." AIVHA quickly replied, Twilight sighing in relief.
"Good, now I can take the fight here."
Twilight shot up into the air, Trixie following her into the air, swinging towards her. But Twilight managed to move quicker than Trixie, and knocking her down into the building, crashing through the roof.
Twilight floated where she was for a moment, hoping Trixie was finished with the fight, but quickly knew she wasn't as she fired a blast towards the lavender mare, knocking her down to the ground.
Trixie crashed through the wall, and turned her head, seeing a bus stopping right in front of her. She picked up the bus with a groan and throwing it towards Twilight, who quickly caught it.
The passengers screamed as they were flown to the lavender mare, and each sighed in relief as the lavender mare caught them and put them down.
Twilight flew over the bus, but was hit by a stallionhole cover, and then punched back, crashing onto the ground.
Trixie landed a few feet away from Twilight, another stallionhole cover in her hoof.
Twilight got up and quickly flew towards Trixie, knocking her up into the air, "Trixie! Please! Get out of the suit! Stop this!"
Trixie knocked Twilight down to the ground, and she continued falling. She turned and saw the castle that the party for Twilight was at, and she could see the Council quickly coming closer to her as she fell towards them.
She shut her eyes tight, but didn't hear the impact of metal on concrete and ponies, instead she felt herself get stopped. She opened her eyes to see Twilight holding Trixie, firing her bottom thrusters at full capacity, groaning as they flew up towards the sky.
Trixie tried knocking Twilight with the stallionhole cover, but Twilight fired at it with her thrusters, knocking it out of her hoof, and then felt Twilight's hoof knock into her, sending her flying.
"Ms. Sparkle, I strongly implore you to look towards her chest. The suit uses the same power source as yours." AIVHA said.
"The first arc! So I just need to tear it out of her, or at least temporarily disable it." Twilight said.
"Exactly."
Twilight jumped forward and brought her hoof down to Trixie's helmet, knocking her into the ground as Twilight pressed her hoof against Trixie's suit's chest, grabbing onto the area around the arc tightly with her miniature claws, and began to pull.
Trixie punched Twilight, the sound of metal crashing against concrete was heard as Twilight slid away, groaning as she got up, only to be knocked back down by Trixie, who held her bottom hoof against Twilight's chest, holding her there.
"! Let me go! I've caused enough pain! I've gone too far! Just let me leave!" She cried out.
"Why...? Why won't you let us help you?!" Twilight groaned, struggling to lift her foot as her own suit was finding slight difficulty turning her blasters on.
"I thought this was what I wanted! Revenge on you! But I realized too late that I was getting more than what I asked for! I didn't want any part of it and now I just want to leave! So leave me be!" Trixie cried out.
"Ms. Sparkle, you have enough energy for one blast." AIVHA told Twilight.
"Then let's make it count..." Twilight thought, quickly lifting her arm up and firing, hitting Trixie's arc reactor, the beam from Twilight quickly going up and hitting Trixie's helmet, knocking her back with a loud yell and a thud as she hit the concrete behind her.
Her suit slowly began regaining it's energy, so Twilight had to stand back up slowly, and she slowly moved to Trixie's head, praying as she tore off the face, seeing Trixie's teary face.
"The ponies I was working with will find you..." she managed to say in between sniffs and sobs, "and they'll find me too..."
"... Well then I'll stop them." Twilight said, looking up as she saw the Royal Guard slowly begin trotting towards them. She activated her blasters and flew away, leaving the Guards alone with Trixie, crying in the suit on the ground.
Twilight looked at the newspaper Spike was showing her, using her hoof aid to apply her makeup.
"Catchy name, isn't it?" Spike said.
"'Iron Mare'?" Twilight said, "well I guess it's pretty nice. But don't get used to this Spike. This is only lasting until I take down the Four Rings.
"Well yeah, but doesn't mean we can't have a cool name to go along with it." Spike said "So, this party is going to have a big cake there, right?"
Twilight giggled softly, "Yes Spike, the cake should be pretty big."
"Ms. Sparkle. I have put the suit away as instructed, and am now running more scans over satellite images to pinpoint more areas where the Four Rings could possibly be hiding." AIVHA said.
"Alright, thank you computer. Now come on Spike," Twilight said as she got up, trotting to the door of Moondancer's home, "we'll wait for her here."
"I'm here, I'm here!" Moondancer said, trotting down the stairs quickly. "So the others are already there?"
"Yes, now come on guys. But first, we have a stop to make..."
Twilight looked through the mirror into the interrogation room, Whooves sitting alone in the room, looking down to his hooves with an expressionless face.
"... I'll just be a minute. I just... I just need to talk to him."
Celestia nodded to the guard at the door, and he opened it, allowing Twilight to pass through.
"H-Hey... Whooves... Dr. Whooves? You... You remember me... Right?" Twilight said as she as she sat down across from him.
"... Twilight..." He simply said.
Twilight smiled and nodded. "... Whooves. Please. You can tell me. Who hurt you? Who did this to you? Who wanted me dead?"
"I've already told you... I don't know who, why or where... I can't remember. I'm sorry..." Whooves replied.
"... It's okay... You know... You can come to my party that the Council is throwing for me before you leave." Twilight said, "another party since the last one... Y-You know..."
Whooves remained silent.
"... And they just wanted me to remind you to call them if you can remember anything." Twilight continued.
"I... I know. And I would love to go to your party... But I remember my home before I was fillynapped... Where I moved to, and found the love of my life... Where I raised a child with her... And I just need to go back to Manehatten Twilight. I need to."
Twilight nodded, "Alright... And remember, you can call me too if you need anything Whooves."
Whooves nodded, and Twilight sat up and hugged him tight, Whooves remaining still and staring at the table. Twilight broke the hug and trotted to Celestia, "I'm ready to go now."
Twilight smiled as her mother and father hugged her tight, her returning the hug with a few tears shed between the three.
"We're so glad you're back here and safe sweetie. We were... We were so worried." Twilight's mother said, her voice cracking up as her eyes teared up again.
Twilight's father patted her back and smiled to his daughter, "We both were worried sick for you, Twilight."
"I missed you two too." Twilight said.
"Excuse me, Twilight?" Princess Luna said to Twilight, "It's time for you to go up."
Twilight nodded and gave her parents' one last hug, then following Luna up to the stage at the end of the room. Twilight trotted up to the stage and turned to the crowd of ponies, Celestia stepping to the side next to her sister as Twilight cleared her throat.
"Hello everypony. Thank you all for coming. Your support, everything, all of it. It means so much. You being here truly warms my heart. I just wish... I just wish Pinkie Pie were also here to celebrate." Twilight said, smiling sadly as she thought of Pinkie.
"We're all sure Pinkie would have made this party the best one she could ever throw." Celestia said, patting her student's back.
Twilight chuckled softly, and sniffed, "Yeah... She would have. Anypony have any questions before we get back to the party? Oh? Um... Yes?" Twilight pointed to the mare raising her hoof up high, struggling to stand up the highest, like a small filly in school.
"Ms. Sparkle! What do you think about the pony that's making all the news: The Iron Mare?"
"The Iron Mare?" Twilight said, gulping softly, "I... Uh... Well..." Twilight looked down, and began thinking, she stood like that for a while, before the mare spoke up again.
"Ms. Sparkle? Are you okay?" The mare asked, snapping Twilight from her trance.
Twilight remained silent as she looked to the crowd, and she then let out a deep breath, ".... I am Iron Mare."
The room exploded after that, everypony standing up, each member of the press shouting their own questions and pushing past the nobles, trying their hardest to get their question heard and answered.
Twilight let out another deep breath as she watched the press shout their questions and push past the nobles, and she could see the Council member, Fleur, at the back of the room, her eyes open wide in surprise, and her mouth open to allow Twilight to see she was grinding her teeth in anger.
Twilight closed her eyes and smiled, knowing that nothing was going to be the same after this party. |
Iron Mare | Epilogue | Twilight groaned as she trotted back up to her office at her home, the party wearing her out along with the session with Flur she just had to endure.
"So she's mad at you for saving ponies' lives? That's... What??" Spike asked.
"No, Spike," Twilight replied, "she's mad because I've 'withheld important technology from Equestria' and 'performed multiple acts that could be labeled criminal.'"
"What??? Like what??" Spike said.
"I have no clue with her sometimes, Spike. But I'm sure I'll hear all about it again tomorrow. Good night, Spike." Twilight said, opening her office door.
"Alright, good night Twilight." Spike said.
Twilight smiled and turned on her office's light, and stood still, her heart stopping as her face was nearly flushed of all color.
At the end of the room, was a figure. Standing in front of her window, staring out. She stood like that for a while, having no clue how to respond. She then opened her mouth to call for the suit, but the figure spoke first.
"Don't bother, we've shut down your computer system for a while. We needed to speak to you." The figure said.
Twilight's heart started beating faster. Who would need to talk to her? What happened? Was this one of the people Trixie warned her about? But most importantly... Why did she recognize that voice?
The figure turned around and answered that last question, as she saw Spitfire walk from the shadows and into the light, showing Spitfire wearing a leather coat, and a black eyepatch.
"Oh, but don't you worry about this," she gestured to her eyepatch, "the docs said my eye was damaged pretty bad from that shard from the suit back at the desert, but I'll be completely fine. I actually think this looks cool, don't you?"
Twilight found herself at a loss for words, stuttering every time she tried to make a response. The shock of seeing a friend, one she had previously thought to be dead, standing just a few feet in front of her.
"Now, you don't need to say anything, but listen. Now, the ponies I'm working with are a group that wants to actually do something. But do it without public knowledge so they don't get scared. Because the stuff we know, the stuff we're doing, it's crazy stuff. And we don't want to start a panic across Equus. You get it?"
Twilight nodded slowly.
"Good."
"But... But... B-But what do y-you want from me...?"
"Ms. Sparkle..." Spitfire said, stepping closer to Twilight, "I'm here to talk to you about the Avengers initiative." |
SPQR | pre | Gaius put his hand over her mouth. "Be silent mare! If you make any more noise, you'll scare away the rabbits. They're very sensitive to sound and movement."
"Fine, but it still doesn't change the fact that we might be in danger."
"I can handle anything that comes our way."
Lyra rolled her eyes. "Oh come on! You just got out of the hospital. You're in no condition to be running around, killing woodland creatures. What if you hurt yourself even worse?"
"I'll be careful. I normally would have avoided the larger predators if I was by myself, but those fillies needed rescuing."
Gaius shushed her once more as he heard a few leaves rustling. Much to his surprise a plump looking white rabbit was casually walking towards one of his snares already. Gaius would have laughed at the creature if his dinner didn't depend on complete silence. The furry rodent seemed to have an arrogant air about him, as he nibbled on the end of a carrot.
Where had the rabbit gotten a carrot? And why wasn't it more cautious in a forest filled with predators? If the creature wanted to be stupid, that was fine with Gaius. That would make it all the easier to catch. Finally the rabbit's leg caught on one of the snares, making it flail angrily in a vain attempt to escape. Donning a triumphant grin, Gaius walked over to the hapless rodent with Lyra in tow.
"Ha Ha! You shall make a fine stew."
The rabbit crossed its arms and blew a raspberry at Gaius.
"You're a feisty one aren't you?"
Lyra's brow furrowed. "Hmm I swear I've seen that rabbit before somewhere."
"That shouldn't come as any surprise considering most rabbits look the same, although I rarely see any white rabbits. Actually come to think of it, why is he white? That's a poor color for living in the woods."
Lyra gasped. "Oh no."
"What's the problem? I know you horses are vegetarians but I have needs and..."
Gaius was interrupted by a yellow blur tackling him to the ground. Since he was wearing armor he barely felt the impact. Once the Roman regained his composure, he noted that a particularly agitated pony was staring at him with a pair of aquamarine eyes.
"HOW DARE YOU ATTACK ANGEL!"
"Angel? What, you mean that rabbit?"
"Of course I mean the rabbit. I don't know what you are, but I won't stand for you teasing and torturing him."
Gaius raised his brow. "Why do you care?"
"I care because he's my pet!"
Gaius couldn't help but laugh. "That's the most idiotic thing I've ever heard. A pony having a pet...HAHAHAHA."
The yellow mare puffed her cheeks out. "I-it's not stupid. Some poor, defenseless creatures need to be taken care of."
"Yeah, and the only way I'm taking care of this rabbit is by putting in my belly."
Gaius pushed the mare away and cut the rabbit from the snare, dangling it by the legs. He went only a few paces, when he felt something latch onto his leg. The stubborn yellow mare was actually trying to stop him. How utterly absurd. Was some silly rabbit really worth that much to her? Much to centurion's dismay, the horse actually began to wail like a newborn child after he took a few more steps.
"*Sniff* P-please Mr. Monkey creature, let Angel go! H-he *hic* means so much to me. I r-raised him since he was a b-baby! I'll give you all the bits I have, just please...let him go."
Gaius winced. "Oh...alright. If the little whelp means that much to you, I'll let him go."
Once Gaius cut the snare with his sword the little rabbit lunged at the mare, hugging her neck. The mare herself nuzzled the rodent with equal fervor, wiping a few tears with her hoof. As soon as she calmed down, the mare trotted over to Gaius and wrapped his leg in a tight hug.
"Oh thank you so much!"
"Ermm...you're welcome I guess. However, I'm right back where I started."
The mare squeaked. "I'm so sorry, I got so wrapped up with Angel being safe again that I forgot to pay you. Just follow me back to my cottage and all give you some bits...if that's ok with you."
Gaius put his hand on her back. "Look, you don't have to give me any coin. I was just hungry is all. You have to understand that I have certain needs. One of which includes meat. So I would appreciate if..."
"Oh but of course! Most monkeys I've seen are omnivores and they usually get their protein from bugs. But...you're a bit bigger than they are so it stands to reason you'd want a more substantial source than bugs."
"Right, well I really could use some so if you don't mind..."
"Since you've been such a nice monkey, how about I get you some tasty fish? I'm sure I still have some from when Harry the Bear was visiting."
Gaius groaned. "Look it's not that I'm ungrateful that you're offering me meat but...I'm not some damned monkey!"
The mare's ears drooped. "Oh my...I'm sorry I didn't mean to offend you. I've never really seen anything like you before so...umm all I could think of was a monkey."
Gaius patted her on the head. "No need to worry yourself, such has been the case with most of the ponies I've met so far. Might you tell me your name, so that I that I may thank my benefactor?"
"I-I'm F-fluttershy. And could you tell me your name too...if you want to that is."
Gaius held out his hand. "Certainly, you may call me Gaius. It's a pleasure to meet you Miss Fluttershy."
Fluttershy gently placed her hoof in his palm. "Nice to meet you as well Mr. Gaius, but I wish it had been under more pleasant circumstances. B-but don't feel bad though! I know you didn't have any idea that Angel was my pet bunny."
Lyra trotted up to Gaius. "So can we get on with this whole food ordeal? I'd really like to be back in Ponyville before dark."
"Ah yes but of course! Ponies have so many things they need to do, like munching on grass. Forgive me for delaying you from your important task."
Lyra huffed. "We do not just munch on grass all day! I'm only hurrying this along so that we can focus on more important tasks, such as you learning our language and writing."
"How insolent of me! I had nearly forgotten that horses also need time to frolic in the meadow. Miss Fluttershy let us make haste, lest we upset Ms. Lyra further."
Lyra grumbled. "This human is going to drive me insane."
Fluttershy shuffled her hooves. "Umm...I don't really want to upset anypony, so I guess we should hurry. But I really do like frolicking in the meadow it's...nice."
Lyra face hoofed. "Shy please don't encourage him!"
"Oh I'm sorry...was I doing something wrong?"
"You know what? Just forget I said anything; let's go find his stupid fish."
Fluttershy's Cottage, Ponyville
Gaius sat on an old log next to Lyra while Fluttershy went inside a small shack to retrieve some fish. He still found it odd that a mare would be taking care of animals, as pets or otherwise. Even stranger was the fact that Fluttershy was a pegasus, yet she seemed content to stay on the ground. But that wasn't even the strangest thing.
What really got the Roman thinking was: How in Tartarus did horses go fishing? Did they use nets, or did they just dive into a river and use some kind of spear? Being familiar with spears himself, Gaius didn't think that these tiny horses would have an easy time using a spear with their mouth. His musings were cut short when he saw Fluttershy trot out of the shack with a bag full of beautifully colored trout.
The buttery pegasus sighed. "I hope that you like trout, because I'm all out of salmon. Harry ate all of them when he visited last time. I'm sorry..."
Gaius rubbed his hands together. "No need to worry, I love trout. These shall make a fine meal. Do you happen to have a table I could use to gut and fillet them?"
"I don't have one in the shack but I do have a small table inside the cottage. If you give me a few minutes I should be able to get it for you."
After about ten minutes Fluttershy came back with a small, folding table. Gaius had never seen such a thing and was impressed by its clever design. Without missing a beat, the Roman unsheathed a dagger from his belt and began to slice open a few trout. Fluttershy in the meantime, decided to sit next to Lyra. She smiled at the minty unicorn as if she didn't have a care in the world, while Lyra looked ill.
"Umm Lyra what's wrong? You look really sick. Are you feeling ok?"
"I really wish he would hurry up and finish gutting those fish. It's disgusting. Doesn't it bother you?"
Shy shook her head. "No, I'm used to seeing plenty of animals eat meat."
"I guess that comes with the territory huh?"
"At least you should be thankful that he isn't eating red meat. Why when I was visiting Marty the Manticore, he was eating a deer just before I arrived. There was so much blood. Maybe I can teach him to have better manners."
Lyra dry heaved. "By Luna's fetlocks do you have to talk about blood!?"
"Oh sorry, I forgot you aren't used to seeing that kind of stuff."
"I've never been very good with blood. It makes me feel queasy just thinking about it and don't even get me started with hospitals."
Fluttershy giggled. "You remind me of Rainbow Dash. She won't ever admit it, but she's deathly afraid of needles. One time when she had to get a shot, she hid underneath a bed for two hours. She only came out when I promised to buy her a Spitfire doll."
Lyra shuddered. "Normally I'd laugh my flank off...but I hate needles too."
Meanwhile Gaius was busy cooking the fish over a makeshift fire pit he had made out of some rocks. Both ponies were amazed at how little time it had taken him to construct it. As Lyra continued to stare slack-jawed at the human's efforts, the smells of cooking flesh filled the air. Being near the Everfree Forest, this was not the best way to detract some of its carnivorous predators.
Lyra stared at the fire. "How did you set that up so quickly?"
"It's an old camping trick, taught to every recruit in the legion."
Fluttershy cocked her head. "You must not be able to handle raw meat very well."
"Fish can be eaten raw, but some men get sick from consuming it that way. The sickness applies to other meats, particularly any kind of foul. I don't like to take any chances so I always cook any kind of meat that I come across."
"A lot of ponies eat cooked food too. But I think it's more for the taste than anything else."
Gaius chewed on a piece of trout, swallowing it faster than he would have liked. He could have sworn that he saw something stirring in the bushes nearby. With practiced ease he unsheathed his gladius, using his other hand to signal the ponies to move closer to him.
Fluttershy's eyes widened with worry. "I-is something wrong?"
"I thought I saw something in the bushes over there. Make sure that you stay behind me, it could be something dangerous."
Lyra looked over at Fluttershy. "Do you think it's a manticore?"
"No, I don't think so. We're too far away from their hunting grounds. However, it's not unheard of for Timber wolves to hunt around here...but it is rare."
Gaius grimaced. "I'm sorry; I should have been more careful where I cooked my food. The smell of roasting flesh tends to attract wild animals."
Fluttershy placed her hoof on his back. "It's ok, I should have let you cook inside my cottage but I thought we were far enough away from most of the larger predators. I'm sorry if you..."
The mare was interrupted when an ungainly creature leaped out of the bushes. It was, quite possibly, one of the strangest animals Gaius had ever seen (not counting present company). The thing was shaped like a horse as well, but that's where the similarities ended. Its entire body was encased in black shell-like armor, along with a pair of insect wings. Like some of the other horses he'd seen, it too had a horn but was jagged and came to a point at the end. Its mane (if you could call it that) was a greenish-blue color that had random holes throughout. The thing snarled at him, bearing a pair of tiny fangs.
Fluttershy squeaked. "Wait I know who that is!"
Gaius kept his sword pointed at the abomination. "Do you mean to tell me this creature is intelligent?"
"Umm...yes she is. I think that's Queen Chrysalis b-but I haven't seen her in a long time."
Chrysalis scoffed. "It seems at least somepony recognizes me."
"What do you want, if you don't mind me asking...that is."
"As much as it pains me to admit this, I am in dire need of food. The smell of the monkey creature's cooking led me here. As you can see by my abysmal condition, I haven't been eating as regularly as I should."
Lyra cocked her eyebrow. "Wait, I thought changelings only fed on love."
"Foolish pony, how little you know of our kind! We do indeed feed upon emotions such as love, and it is our primary means of sustenance. Changelings can also eat meat for nutrition but it does not fill us up as much as love."
"If you're starving, then why didn't you just take some love from nearby ponies?"
Chrysalis laughed. "Don't you think I would've tried that, if it were so easy? Ever since my failed invasion you ponies have been relentless with trying to weed out any remaining changelings. It has made feeding...rather difficult to say the least. My energy is so low right now that even if I wanted to transform, I could only maintain it for a matter of minutes."
Gaius placed the tip of his sword at the Queen's throat. "If all you require is food, then I am more than willing to share. However, if I so much as see you try anything violent I will not hesitate to slice your throat."
"You would be willing to share with likes of me? HA!"
"I fail to see what is so humorous in this situation."
"Most of Ponykind despises changelings and would sooner run a spear through our chest than share. It amuses me that you would even be willing to share food, monkey creature. Very well, you have my word. No harm shall come to the ponies or yourself. I may be destitute but at least I still have my honor as a queen to uphold."
As the changeling queen greedily gobbled down several trout fillets, Lyra scooted closer to Fluttershy. "What are we going to do? We can't just like her go, she's dangerous!"
The element of kindness shook her head. "If Gaius wants to help her, then we have no right to tell him not to. Maybe Chrysalis will be nice to us, if we are nice to her."
"Yeah and she'll just put us under her spell and turn us into zombies, just like I was at the wedding!"
"We don't know that for sure. Besides, she isn't in any condition to be doing things like that. She doesn't even have any other changelings following her. Are you suggesting that we let her out here to die?"
"Well I...but, she's a changeling!"
Fluttershy frowned. "Even if she used to be our enemy, everypony deserves a second chance. I'm disappointed that you even thought about leaving her to die, that's horrible. What if we had found a little filly starving out here instead of Chrysalis hmm? I bet you wouldn't have hesitated one second to help, if that was the case."
Lyra's ears flattened. "Look, I have a really hard time trusting her after what she did to me. Is that so difficult to understand?"
"No but that doesn't excuse your attitude. If you can befriend and look after somepony like Gaius, then it shouldn't be too difficult to see Chrysalis as more than just a heartless monster."
"Alright...you win, I might be holding a bit of a grudge. But what must I do to change that?"
"Maybe you could offer to look after her, like you did with Gaius."
Lyra gasped. "What!? T-that's too much to ask. I'm already going to have my hooves full with him, let alone a changeling queen. And what about Bon Bon, she'll freak out if she hears about this!"
"You have Chrysalis do what changelings do best...change of course."
"Oh...yeah. I guess I could have her turn into a filly or something."
Shy smiled. "See, that wasn't so hard was it? Now go over there and make your peace."
Gaius busied himself by smoking a few trout fillets in order to make jerky. Fish jerky wasn't the tastiest but at least it gave you energy when you needed it. Thankfully the pegasus had given him enough so that not only he could enjoy a hearty meal, but the bug-horse as well. She hadn't really said much, choosing to wolf down some fish instead. The mare moved a little bit closer to the fire, appearing lost in her own thoughts. Gaius was about to start cleaning his sword, when he felt one of her hooves touch his leg. He swore that she was blushing as she looked at him.
"I...just wanted to thank you, for the food. But don't get used to my gratitude for it is not very often that I indebt myself to other creatures."
"You're welcome. I'm glad that you were more reasonable than I first presumed. For a moment, I thought you were going to devour those ponies."
Chrysalis laughed. "I look this way for a reason you know. Predators cannot look cute and cuddly after all. Ah but me, eating a pony? How utterly absurd! They would probably have too much fat from all that comfortable living."
"Are you well enough to move about now?"
"I suppose so. At least I don't feel as if I'm at the verge of death anymore."
Gaius sheathed his gladius. "Good. That being said, I'm afraid I don't have much more to offer you. I presume you seek shelter as well but sadly, my own living arrangements are dependent upon Ms. Lyra."
"I shall simply have to make due with sleeping in the forest. It's not glamorous, but it shall have to do for now."
Lyra trotted over to the queen. "You don't have to do that."
"And why is that?"
"Because...I'm going to let you stay at my house, along with Gaius."
"You crazy mare, who addled your brains today?"
Lyra bit her lip. "Nopony did, look don't make this any more difficult than it needs to be."
"On the contrary, I'm not trying to be difficult. I am merely confused as to why you would wish to show me any form of kindness, especially after what I did to you."
"About that...I felt really bad for judging you so harshly so, I'd like us to start over."
Chrysalis smirked. "Very well, if that is what you wish. I suppose you'll want some kind of apology from me in return hmm?"
"That would be a nice start."
"I'm already indebted to some monkey thing. My pride as queen has already hit rock bottom, what is one more debt? I apologize for causing you any form of mental and or physical trauma caused by my mind control. There, are you happy now?"
Lyra was about to make a snide remark, but Fluttershy stared at her. "That didn't sound very sincere but at least you apologized. The only rule I have if you decide to stay with me is that you must remain disguised as a filly while we're out in public. I don't want everypony freaking out that the queen of the changelings is living in Ponyville."
Chrysalis nodded. "Naturally. Well then Ms. Heartstrings, I am in your care. As you ponies say: This may prove to be the start of a beautiful friendship!" |
SPQR | Culturae Concussa | Chapter 5
Lyra's Apartment, Ponyville
Gaius and Lyra were seated at a small desk trying to go over a few introductory books on Equestrian written script, while Chrysalis was busy lounging on a big red couch nearby. The changeling queen had opted to disguise herself as a charcoal coated unicorn filly with dark green eyes and a viridian tinted mane. This was so she could claim to be a visiting cousin of the minty unicorn without arousing too much suspicion among the citizens of Ponyville. The other reason was so she could use magic freely. Surely, it was an inconvenience not to be able to fly but it was downright impossible for her to live without magic. With a sigh the queen blew a strand of her mane away from her snout. Life was never without some form of sacrifice.
"Are you two finished studying yet? Because sitting around in abject boredom is at the very top of my to-do list right now."
Lyra huffed in annoyance. "Listen up your majesty. The only reason Mr. Septimus can understand either of us right now is because of a temporary spell I cast on him. It takes quite a bit of energy out of me, so it's in both of our best interest for him to learn Equestrian. You're just going to have to find something to do on your own."
"For your information, I was too busy trying to SURVIVE on a daily basis to even think about such trivial matters as entertainment. Do you even know what it's like to be away from your cushy pony lifestyle? I highly doubt it. If anything, I deserve every right to be bored."
"You know what? You're lucky I even let you stay here. I could've just left you to rot in the Everfree but I didn't because it was the right thing to do. You're not anpony's queen anymore, so quit being bossy and take care of your own problems!"
Gaius slammed his fist on the desk. "Lyra we've been at this for over an hour now and I believe it's time we took a break. Chrysalis, there's no reason for you to be acting like a spoiled child. Both of you stop your bickering and apologize to one another."
Both pony and changeling crossed their fore-hooves and looked away from each other. Gaius started to rub his temples in annoyance, finding this situation not unlike some he encountered back home. It seemed that women did similar things, even in different realms. Naturally he would have to intervene in order to get them to stop, so he grabbed them both by the tail to get their attention. The eyes of both mares widened as they squealed with surprise.
"Now, I'm going to keep tugging on your tails until the both of you settle down."
The two mares blushed heavily but eventually they grumbled a half-hearted apology to one another in order to be released from the human's clutches. With a satisfied smirk, Gaius cracked his knuckles and went into the kitchen to get a drink. When he came back with a bottle of sports drink, he found a very angry Lyra glaring at him. Chrysalis, strangely enough, looked somewhat...amused?
"I swear these refrigerator devices are astounding. They keep food and drink as cold as the winter snow and...umm why are you so upset Miss Lyra?"
Lyra used her magic to hurl one of the pillows from the couch straight at the Centurion's face. Having such quick reflexes, he managed to doge the fluffy projectile but was tackled to the floor by the enraged unicorn. She pummeled him with yet another pillow but this time she used her teeth to grip onto it. After about thirty seconds Gaius waved his hands in surrender and while Lyra stopped her assault, she continued to sit on top of his chest.
"What is the meaning of this? What wrongs have I committed?"
"You don't know what you just did!?"
"Umm...should I?"
Lyra blushed. "Oh right, you're not a pony so of course you wouldn't know. Ehem...well you see when a mare and c-colt like each other..."
Chrysalis rolled her eyes. "Oh for the love of Faust! What she means to say is: the fondling and or tugging of one's tail is considered an act of intimacy. And yes, just in case you were wondering it does indeed cause sexual stimulation....particularly with mares."
"Ah well, that would certainly explain both of your reactions. I honestly had no idea that such a thing was considered an act of foreplay. In the future I shall refrain from touching your tails."
"Not to worry human, not harm was done. However I should clarify that mere physical contact with our tails is not arousing, nor is it considered sexual. Stimulation only occurs when you pull on them. So, if you wish to pet our tails feel free to do so."
"Speak for yourself changeling! Mr. Septimus just...ask before you pet alright? I'd rather we not have any more incidents."
Luckily for Gaius the awkward situation was somewhat diffused by several knocks at the door. Lyra opened it to find both Rarity and her sister Sweetie waiting outside. The fashonista was sporting some rather flashy white saddle bags and a purple sun hat.
"Good afternoon Lyra! I do hope Sweetie and I aren't interrupting anything?"
"Oh no, not all. Please come in."
"Thank you darling. Now, I suppose you're wondering why we've decided to visit."
"Well yeah, I mean I don't mind you coming over but it's kind of sudden. You're not really known for your spontaneity."
Rarity cleared her throat. "I should certainly hope not. That is something Pinkie Pie is far better suited for. In any case, I was informed by my sister that her life was saved by a brave and noble creature. I would like to meet this creature and offer him a reward!"
"If you want to meet Mr. Septimus, he's in the living room with my cousin."
Rarity trotted over to the simian-like creature and found that he was enjoying one of those vile sports drinks that Rainbow Dash so thoroughly enjoyed drinking. No doubt it was loaded with sugar. Just seeing him sip on it made her almost cringe. But it wasn't her place to question Sweetie's savoir. She was here to thank him, not judge him. Next to him sat a bored looking unicorn filly, which Rarity assumed was the cousin Lyra mentioned. Taking a deep breath she put on her best lady-like smile.
"Greetings to you my good gentlecolt. My name is Rarity and am the older sibling of one of the fillies you saved from the Timber wolf. It is a pleasure to finally meet you."
Gaius simply nodded. "Likewise Ms. Rarity. You may call me Gaius. I take it your sister must be the little unicorn I saved?"
"That is indeed the case sir. I chose to visit today in order to offer you a reward for you act of heroism."
"There is no need for that ma'am; I only did what was right."
Rarity held her hoof up. "Don't say another word. I simply must insist on rewarding you. Now, I couldn't help but notice that you wear clothing. I just so happen to be a clothing designer by profession. You can be assured that at the very least, you shall be receiving a few more outfits free of charge."
"I suppose I will eventually need some new clothing."
"Yes, your current outfit looks a bit...worn. Furthermore, you and Lyra shall accompany me to the spa for a deluxe treatment. Judging by the stench you're putting off, you are in serious need of a bath darling."
Gaius grinned. "Oh thank the gods! I'm in dire need of a good cleansing. I haven't been to a proper bathhouse in ages. I apologize if my odor offends you; I normally don't smell this foul. Unfortunately I haven't really gotten the chance to bathe since I arrived here."
"How wonderful! Finally, I've found a stallion who appreciates a good spa treatment!"
Chrysalis's ears perked up. "Did you just say spa treatment?"
"Why yes dear. Are you by chance interested in accompanying us?"
"YOU...HAVE....NO...IDEA!"
"Color me surprised then. I didn't think fillies enjoyed the spa very much. Sweetie occasionally goes but her other friends aren't too fond of it. Especially with Scootaloo, no doubt she's just mirroring Rainbow Dash. It's a shame really. Anyway, I don't believe I caught your name darling."
"It's Chrys--Chrysanthemum. But you may call me Chrissy."
"Hmm...I'm sorry but I just didn't expect you to have a name associated with flowers. Your coat doesn't seem to really match with it...as it were."
Chrysalis chuckled nervously. "Oh well, that's because my mother is a florist. She's an earthpony and my dad is a unicorn. In the end they gave me a traditional earthpony name, despite my horn."
"It is beautiful name darling. I was merely adding my two bits. Shall we be off then?"
The Lotus Petal Spa, Ponyville
Aloe lazily filed her left hoof, wondering why today was so dreadfully slow. It wasn't as if ponies needed spa treatments, nor were they wildly popular but this was just ridiculous. She had opted to stay at the front desk while her sister, Lotus, cleaned the baths. The only other employee present was a pegasus stallion by the name of Gentle Breeze. Despite being a pegasus he was quite skilled with his hooves, thus he tended to the spa's customers while Aloe and Lotus were busy.
At the moment, Gentle was busy reading a magazine on the latest massage techniques. It was printed and published in Tauros, the capital of the Minotaur Khanate. It made sense to Aloe that the minotaurs would be good at such a profession, considering that they were one of the few species that possessed hands.
It wasn't the magazine she was interested in. Oh no, she was more interested in ogling Gentle Breeze. He was a bit on the muscular side for pegasus, no doubt due to the fact that he needed to keep his hooves in shape to able to perform his job properly. Aloe would never admit it, but she had been crushing on him ever since he started. She continued to stare even after he put down the magazine. The stallion merely raised his eyebrow.
"I had no idea you were so interested in massage magazines boss. If you wanted to read it that badly, you could have just asked."
Aloe blushed. "Oh erm...sorry Breeze, I must have zoned out a bit. The monotony of the day is getting to me."
Breeze popped his neck. "Aaaahhh yeah I hear ya on that one. It's slower than maple syrup in the dead of winter around here. I wonder if your sister would mind closing up shop early."
It was then that Rarity choose to burst through the doors of the spa. "Hello darlings I hope you're ready to give a few deluxe treatments!"
"Ah a good day to you Ms. Rarity. What might we be able to do for our favorite customer?"
"While I always appreciate your work Breeze, I fear that my friends and I must first take a long, hot bath."
Aloe grinned. "You have excellent timing then. My sister is cleaning the baths as we speak. I presume you shall want the works for all of your...guests?"
"Indeed darling, especially for the armored gentlecolt standing next to my sister."
"Umm...not to be rude but he isn't exactly a pony. In fact, what is he?"
"Lyra claims he is some kind of ape creature. A human I believe she called it."
"He even has hands like the minotaurs do...very interesting. Perhaps my sister and I could instruct him how to give massages, if he doesn't object of course. I know many ponies who would give their left leg for a professional Taurian treatment."
"That is something you will have to discuss with him. I'm not entirely sure if he even did that sort of thing where he came from. I would assume not, judging from his style of dress."
"Why would you say that?"
"I'm a dress maker darling, it's my job to notice the little details. He's clearly wearing chainmail armor. That's not the type of attire somepony would wear, if they intended to work at a spa. No, I believe he is more the military type or maybe a guard."
"Hmm yes he does look like the type. But I wonder how much mercenary work he will find in Equestria. We haven't had a war in over a thousand years. If he desires to earn bits, then I'm willing to bet he'd try his hand at an alternative career."
"We certainly shall see. Now, why don't we get this treatment started? Nothing makes one's coat shinier than a deep soak in mineral water!"
Gaius followed a maroon coated pegasus into one room, while the others followed a pink mare into another across the hall. This certainly wasn't like any bathhouse he'd ever seen before. Most of the ones he'd been to were far smaller than this one but he had no doubt that some of the wealthier nobles could afford to build such a large and lavish complex.
The centurion had heard tales of the legendary deeds of debauchery that went on in those places. He sincerely hoped that was not the case at this establishment. It wasn't exactly high within his priorities to witness an orgy involving miniature horses, although some back home would disagree. The stallion suddenly stopped, handing him a white towel.
"Excuse me, but why are you giving me a towel before I go into the bath?"
"You know...it's for when you go into the bath sir."
"I'm afraid I don't understand."
"Some of our patrons like to wear towels while walking around. In some cases, mares like to wrap up their manes with one."
Gaius cocked his eyebrow. "Why on earth would I wear a towel while bathing? A towel is meant to be used to dry off. Getting it wet would defeat the purpose of using one in the first place."
"I suppose it is used to preserve the modesty of our patrons."
"Modesty has no place in the baths! One does not bathe while robed."
Breeze frowned. "Well no but..."
"I fail to understand why this is an issue. You ponies prance about in the nude anyway, so why would it matter if you are doing so in a public bathhouse?"
"Ehh...you know I really have no idea."
Gaius quickly disrobed and made his way out to the baths. In the meantime, a very confused Gentle Breeze was left to contemplate some of the more confusing aspects of Equestrian culture. With a disgruntled sigh he retrieved the human's clothing, noting that it tasted like dirt and sweat.
All of the mares had already begun to soak in one of the larger Jacuzzi baths. Rarity was seated next to Lyra, while Sweetie and Chrysalis sat opposite of them. The fashionista was the only pony who had opted to wrap a towel around her mane, for fear of it getting frizzy later. Sweetie had already taken the liberty of submerging herself entirely; as a result her normally curly mane limply clung to her face. Chrysalis simply laid back and closed her eyes. This was the first time in ages that she had taken a proper bath and she was enjoying every blissful second of it. Sadly, her peaceful state was not to last as a certain filly poked her in the ribs.
"Hi I'm Sweetie Belle! What's your name?"
"Chrysanthemum."
"Oooh that's a pretty name. Are you new in town 'cause I've never seen you before."
"No, I'm just visiting."
"Visiting from where? And why are you hanging around Lyra?"
"Stalliongrad and she's my cousin."
"I don't think I've ever heard Lyra talk about you before. Although I guess that's not so weird since Apple Bloom has tons of family that she never talks about. I get kinda confused sometimes, there are SO many Apples and then there's the Oranges..."
Chrysalis's eye twitched. "As fascinating as this conversation is, I'd really like to relax...IN SILENCE!"
Sweetie's ears drooped. "Oh...sorry. So do you have your cutie mark yet?"
"Of course not. Now please be quiet."
"*Squee* Oh my gosh neither do I! My friends and I go around trying to earn our cutie marks. We're called the Cutie Mark Crusaders! If you wanted to...you could join us."
"Ughh fine! I'll join this little group of yours if it will get you to be quiet."
"Yay! We're meeting tomorrow after lunch at Sweet Apple Acres. That's all I had to say, I'll be quiet now."
Rarity slid deeper into the pool. "It seems like those two are getting along rather well, don't you think so Lyra?"
"I guess so. Chrissy isn't really known for being sociable."
"Sweetie loves making new friends, even if they're a bit stand-offish at first. I can't help but notice that your human guest has yet to join us. Do you think he got lost?"
"Aloe sent one of the staff ponies with him, so he shouldn't be. Maybe humans just take longer to prepare for a bath."
"Now that you mention it, he was wearing a lot of clothing. Oh dear, all of that complex armor must be so difficult to get out of."
As soon as Rarity finished her sentence Gaius strode over to the pool in all of his natural glory. He knelt down to test the temperature of the water with his finger before sliding in next to Lyra. The cheeks of all three mares flushed with embarrassment as he dunked his head underneath the water. He let out a satisfied grunt when he surfaced.
"The hot water feels glorious. It has just the right amount of heat. Oh and is that lavender I smell? Miss Rarity...is there something wrong?"
"My word that was certainly a surprise. No wonder he wore so much clothing..." Rarity mumbled under her breath.
"I'm sorry I didn't hear what you said."
Rarity bit her lip. "Oh n-nothing darling. I was merely commenting on how long pen--nut butter can last after you open it. Yes, peanut butter! Isn't that right Lyra?"
"Yeah hehe...sure is amazing isn't it? I mean...it goes great on sandwiches and the best part is you don't have to refrigerate it."
"If you say so. I can't say I'm familiar with this 'peanut butter' you speak of. Perhaps I shall have to try some later. By any chance do you ponies use scented oils?"
"We don't use oils per say darling, but we do use shampoos. They work in a similar manner, although do be careful not to get any in your eyes."
Sweetie, wanting to be helpful, decided to grab a bottle of some flowery scented shampoo. The filly gently nudged Gaius's arm to get his attention and deposited the bottle in his hand.
"What manner of container is this?"
"It's a shampoo bottle! All you have to do is unscrew the cap and pour some into your mane. Trust me; it'll make you smell a whole lot better."
Gaius squeezed the bottle, squirting a glob of viscous yellow gel into his hand. It had the consistency of honey but smelled of perfume. As per Sweetie Belle's instructions he slowly rubbed the gel into his hair. It was an odd sensation, but not unpleasant.
"I fail to see how this gel is supposed to clean my hair. I have done as you instructed but now my hair is more of a mess than it was before!"
Sweetie giggled. "You're supposed to wash it off silly. Just put your head underwater for little while."
"Ah yes, now my hair is back to normal. Thank you little one. How about I return the favor? It must be difficult to wash your mane without any hands. Allow me to do it for you."
Rarity watched with amusement as Gaius washed Sweetie's mane. Such behavior was not unusual for her sister. Sweetie often made friends quickly but for what exact reason Rarity couldn't be completely sure. Perhaps it was her disarming personality? Whatever the case, it was a welcome distraction from the incident earlier. The fashionista had found herself thinking some very un-lady like thoughts.
"Bipeds must have it rough, to be so...exposed like that. I can't imagine how distracted humans must become during heat."
Lyra nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and those muscles of his could put a minotaur to shame."
"Certainly darling and...HOLD ON A MOMENT! I-I didn't realize I was speaking aloud! Oh this won't do. A lady shouldn't talk about such vulgar things in public, especially with fillies present. You must think I'm a terrible pony."
"Calm down Rarity, I was having some of the exact same thoughts. Although, I would keep it down so the big guy and your sister don't overhear us."
Rarity cleared her throat. "Oh yes of course. I for one do not want to have 'the talk' with Sweetie just yet. In fact, I would much rather have mother deal with that particular situation instead."
"Let's just drop the subject entirely ok? It's already gonna be awkward enough when he gets out of the bath. We need to play it cool."
"Awkward would be an understatement darling. How do you expect me to play it cool when somepony's...ermm thing is right in front of my face!?"
"It's not like you haven't seen a stallion's privates before, so get over it."
Rarity blushed. "But this is different! Stallions do NOT walk around with their genitalia on display. The worst part is that Mr. Gaius doesn't even seem bothered by it."
"Rarity, we can't assume anything about his culture. These types of things are bound to happen and all we can do is learn from our blunders and laugh about it later. I know it's extremely distracting but bear with it."
"Merciful Celestia this shall be a long spa day..." |
SPQR | Regina et Militem | Chapter 6
The Lotus Petal Spa, Ponyville
Gaius had decided that his bath had gone on long enough. He had already lathered himself in the various "shampoos" his pony hosts had provided him and was satisfied that he didn't smell like the arena after a beast match. The little unicorn, Sweetie Belle, seemed to have taken a liking to him for some reason. Gaius was rather fond of children so he took her friendly affection in stride.
For some odd reason the other mares seemed to clam up around him. Every time he looked over at them, they seemed to be blushing and darting their eyes. Perhaps the heat was getting to them? Back home some people just couldn't tolerate hot water for very long. It was somewhat embarrassing for Romans to admit but it couldn't be helped. With a shrug he exited the bath to find one of the attendants. Luckily a pink coated mare happened to be in the adjacent room, standing next to what appeared to be some kind of padded table.
Gaius put his hands on his hips. "Excuse me miss. I have finished my bath and I desire a massage. Would you happen to know who might be able to provide me with one?"
The mare stared at him for a few seconds before coughing violently. "Ah ehem...hello sir. You must be one of our guests today. My name is Aloe and I am the one who will be your masseuse today."
"Excellent! I am unfamiliar with your customs, so is there anywhere specific you would like me to be while you perform your art?"
Aloe blushed. "Umm well normally you would just lay down on that table over there but there is a slight...problem."
"Very well but what is the problem?"
"Forgive me for sounding rude sir, but won't you be uncomfortable lying down like that?"
"What do you mean?"
"You know...your special parts."
"Huh what nonsense are you mumbling about?"
"Please don't make me say it out loud. It's embarrassing."
"By Jupiter's beard! Why do all of you act so strangely around me?"
"It's because your p-penis is right out in the open!"
Gaius scratched his head. "Really? That's the reason all of you have been acting so odd? You're embarrassed?"
"Sorry that was rather rude of me..."
"I honestly don't understand. You ponies act as if you haven't seen another creature's loins before. What I find even stranger is that all of you don't seem to wear clothing and yet you are embarrassed by my nudity!"
Aloe shuffled her hooves. "Yes, stallions do have a penis but they aren't out in the open like yours is. Also, I should add that since you stand on two legs, your...thing is right at eye level."
"Ah so the stallions have sheaths that allow them to retract their manhood. How strange. But surely not all creatures of this world have sheaths."
"No, but they have either fur or tails to obscure it. We just aren't used to seeing genitalia on full display like that. It's...very distracting."
Gaius rubbed his temples. "Would you be less distressed if I wore a towel around my waist?"
"I admit that it would certainly help."
Aloe grabbed a towel from one racks nearby and Gaius quickly covered himself. Once robed, he swore he saw a quick flash of relief wash across the mare's face. She pointed to the massage table, urging him to lie down. The table was a bit short for his body but was otherwise comfortable. He tensed up expecting the treatment to be painful, considering that hooves weren't exactly as gentle as a woman's fingers.
The mare was surprisingly delicate with her ministrations, easily ridding him of that nasty crick in his right shoulder blade. As a matter of fact, it was quite strange...her hooves were far more pliable than the horses he was used to dealing with. At some point he would have to ask Lyra why that was, but for now he simply wanted to relax. Gaius was just about to doze off, when he heard the mare gasp.
"Is there something wrong?"
Aloe replied hesitantly. "I've already been inconsiderate to you. I don't wish to bother you further...it's nothing."
"Speak your mind pony. I promise you that I'm not easily offended. Besides, I've been around women enough times to know that when they say nothing is wrong, they really mean everything is wrong."
"I noticed that you have a nasty scar near your right shoulder. You must have been in a horrible accident to receive such an injury. Does...it still bother you?"
Gaius chuckled. "Ah so that's what was bothering you. It's an old injury to be honest. I got that about three years ago during a skirmish. I was on patrol with a few of my men, when a band of barbarians ambushed us in the woods. My men were attacked by two berserkers and I rushed over to try and help them. Unfortunately, I turned my back and wasn't paying attention to what was behind me."
"W-what happened?"
"One of their comrades was hiding behind a tree. He shot me in the shoulder with an arrow. Luckily, the arrow failed to pierce my lung but by the gods did it hurt. If it had gone through, I surely would have died. To this day, I always give a prayer of thanks to Mars for sparing me. When I can, I also give him offerings."
Aloe paled slightly but continued her massage. "No offence...but your kind seems rather violent. I'm glad that I live in Equestria and not your world, if that's what you have to deal with."
"None taken, we simply live in very different worlds. Mankind has always had a penchant for violence and we use it often to get what we want and resolve disputes. Honestly, I would be shocked if you weren't appalled by it, since you seem to be a race of peaceful grass eaters."
"Now you're starting to sound like a griffon."
"This world has griffons?"
Aloe nodded. "Yeah...and they've been rivals with us for centuries. They have a sizable empire to the east, called 'The Eyrie'. It's led by some kind of emperor. There's a special word for it in Griftic but I can't remember what it is..."
"I suppose that this world must be filled with mythical creatures. It shall take some adjustment on my part. And here I am still trying to get used to the concept of magic!"
"I'm sure you'll get used to it in time. When Lotus and I first moved here, this was a rather quiet town until the element bearers started causing all kinds of bizarre occurrences. Trust me; stranger things will happen around here...you can be sure of it!"
Aloe finished up the massage with liberal application of scented oil, trotting off to check up on her sister. Gaius rose from the table to perform a few stretches, to test out his newly limbered muscles. Much to his satisfaction, the soreness he had been feeling in his right shoulder was now completely gone. As he wrapped another towel around his neck, he heard the telltale voices of a few chattering mares coming from just outside the doors. Sure enough, Rarity and the gang were all standing outside waiting for him.
"Hello darling, I do hope you enjoyed your massage."
"Yes, the attendant was quite skilled. You have my thanks Ms. Rarity."
Rarity waved her hoof. "Think nothing of it! The girls and I very much enjoyed ours, particularly Lyra. She let out some rather audible groans of satisfaction. The poor pegasus giving her the massage looked as if he was going to die of embarrassment. Hmm but I can't say I blame her, that stallion was very sexy. The things I would have done to him..."
"What was that? I didn't catch the last part."
"Oh n-nothing darling, just a mare rambling to herself. I see that you've chosen to wear a towel this time around."
"Yes...for some reason the attendant was bothered by my nudity. Can't say I understand why but at least it made conversing with her easier. I'm curious, were you and the others bothered by it as well?"
Rarity bit her lip. "Well, I can't say it wasn't distracting. B-but please don't take it the wrong way! Rest assured you have nothing to worry about."
"Does that mean you were checking out my..."
"I'm terribly sorry to cut this conversation short, but I really must get Sweetie home. I need to feed Opal and make dinner and tidy up the shop a bit. Thank you once again for saving my sister and I hope you enjoyed the spa. Ta ta for now!"
Sweetie trotted up to Gaius and nuzzled his leg. "Thanks again for saving me. Maybe you could come over to the CMC clubhouse sometime and visit? I just know that Scootaloo would love you."
Gaius patted her head. "You're welcome little one. If I find some time away from my studies I shall visit you and your friends. Who knows, I might be willing to teach you a few things about living in the woods."
"*Squee* Oh my gosh! We could be...CUTIE MARK CRUSADER FOREST RANGERS!!!"
Gaius waved to the rambunctious little filly as she and her sister made their way home. With his goodbyes complete, he decided to get dressed. Meanwhile, a very relaxed looking Lyra was sitting on her haunches next to Chrysalis. While the former queen didn't look quite as satisfied as the mare next to her, she appeared far more pleasant than Gaius had ever seen her.
"I take it that the two of you enjoyed yourselves as well?"
Chrysalis rolled her eyes. "It was satisfactory, however I think Lyra enjoyed it a bit too much. She was practically a puddle on the floor after that massage. I'll have you know that I had to drag her lazy carcass all the way here! A queen shouldn't have to burden herself with such tasks."
"Hey! It's not like YOU didn't enjoy it. I heard you letting out all those little sighs and giggles."
"That may be so, but at least I didn't moan like a stallion was rutting me into the ground."
Lyra blushed. "I told you that I c-couldn't help it!"
"Right...keep telling yourself that. Just think of that poor stallion and how hot and bothered you must have made him feel. He certainly had far more self-control than you did. I swear some mares have no shame."
"No shame? Well you certainly have a lot of room to talk! At least I didn't seduce a stallion by pretending to be his wife and raping him countless times."
"Why you miserable little wretch! You are in no position to judge my actions. Nopony possibly could, since they have no idea what it's like to be a species that lives off of emotions! Do you even know what it's like to have an entire hive depending on you for their very survival!?" I highly doubt you. Choose your next words carefully pony, for I am sorely tempted to rip your insolent tongue out!"
Gaius slammed his boot onto the tile. "That is quite enough! I grow tired of the two you constantly bickering like old hags. Now if the both of you can't get along, then I'll be forced to drag you around by your tails...IN THE MIDDLE OF TOWN! Do I make myself clear?"
Both mares shuffled their hooves and looked at the ground. "Y-yes..."
"I want you both to act like adults and apologize to each other. The three of us can then have a long talk about our respective cultures, to clear up any misconceptions."
Lyra scrunched her nose. "But she started..."
"Ahhh no back talk! Apology now!"
Both mares grumbled a halfhearted apology to one another and started their trek back to Lyra's apartment. While Gaius wasn't completely convinced that they were truly sorry, it was better than the two of them being at each other's throats. As they were walking past a flower stall, the Roman suddenly started to get a nasty headache. This was distressing to him, because he had been so relaxed earlier so there wasn't any reason for him to have to one right now.
He paused for a moment to try and get his bearings, which alerted his companions that something was wrong. Lyra stopped as well and started asking him a few questions, but the odd thing was...he couldn't understand a word she was saying. All that came out of her mouth was the familiar sound of short whinnies. He tried telling that his head hurt but she only stared at him with a confused look, then he blacked out.
Lyra's Apartment, Ponyville
Lyra and Chrysalis had put their bickering aside when they noticed how pained their human friend looked. They had to carry him the rest of the way back after he collapsed. Her translation spell had finally worn off and came with some nasty side effects. She knew this would happen eventually but hadn't expected it to cause her human tenant so much pain. Perhaps it was because his body was so unused to magic, that using such a potent spell caused a magical backlash of sorts. Unsure of what to do, the mare buried her face in her hooves.
"What do I do? I can't very well use another translation spell that would hurt him. Plus I don't think I have enough energy to cast it so soon anyway. Oooohh what if permanently damaged his brain? Damn it, I got overexcited to help and screwed everything up!"
Chrysalis awkwardly placed her hoof on Lyra's back. "Ehh I'm sure you didn't cause any serious damage. Besides, I have an idea that might be able to help him. But we need to heal his headache first; otherwise he might actually incur some brain damage."
"Umm...ok. I think I have some pills in the medicine cabinet. They're actually supposed to be for magic hangovers, but they should do the trick."
Chrysalis gasped when she found the bottle. "By the creator! These are medical grade narcotics! Why in Equestria would you need such potent drugs for a mere magical hangover?"
"Well you see...I don't really have a huge reservoir of magic so I get really bad headaches if I overexert myself. I used to take regular aspirin but it never really helped much, so I had to get the strong stuff."
"We can't possibly give the human any of these, there's no telling what kind of havoc they might create to his physiology. You go get him some water and I'll try and heal his headache with my magic."
About twenty minutes later, Chrysalis had finally managed to get rid of Gaius's crippling headache. While most of his needs could be understood through gestures, it was paramount that he be able to speak with them. With a heavy sigh, Chrysalis began to channel magic towards the Roman's head. His unconscious form flinched slightly but didn't resist otherwise.
"What are you doing to him?"
"I'm applying a more permanent solution to his communication problem. Essentially, I'm trying to establish a mind meld with the human so that he can gain all of my knowledge on the Equestrian language, amongst other things."
"Are you sure that's a good idea? What if it doesn't work, I mean he certainly isn't a changeling."
"Trust me, it shall work. I've performed such melds with many different partners, some of whom weren't changelings. Unfortunately, it's very taxing on me because I also receive information from his mind as well."
"Oh...so that's why you're blushing?"
Chrysalis chuckled. "That's certainly part of it. However, I must add that this sort of thing is considered a VERY intimate act in my culture. Changeling couples generally do this to increase the intensity of their relationship both emotionally and...physically."
"Whoa that's actually pretty neat. I had no idea you guys could do that. But I'm more surprised you'd be willing to do that for him, since he isn't exactly your stallion-friend or anything."
"No he isn't but that doesn't change that fact that this is the most expedient solution to our problem. Urrghh some of his memories are quite violent, even for my own tastes. Wait a moment is that a human female? Those teats look like the udders of a cow! Their girth would only serve to get in the way with all that bouncing around. Why is she...oh...well that's interesting. Hmm I'll have to ask about that later."
"What? What is it you're seeing? I wanna know!"
"Some sort of human mating ritual. It certainly is entertaining to watch, if a bit odd."
Lyra blushed. "Y-you shouldn't be watching that. That's supposed to be private."
"As I told you before, this process is the exact opposite of private. It does not have filters of any kind. If it makes you feel any better, he can see all of the times I've mated."
"Doesn't that bother you?"
Chrysalis waved her hoof. "Not particularly. I live off of love my dear and part of love is lust. If we treated sex like you ponies do, we'd starve to death. I still don't understand why you get so embarrassed, when it's such a natural process."
"But you treat it like it's no big deal. It's supposed to be something that you do with your special somepony and you make it sound so cheap and hollow..."
"Pfft such old fashioned notions! Sure, sex can be an act of affection but it's also pretty damn fun. You put it such a high pedestal that...hold on a second. You've never had sex before have you?"
Lyra fiddled with her hooves. "....no."
"Hmm you certainly aren't that bad looking. So why no stallion? I suspect you simply lack the social skills, if your performance at the spa was any indication."
"Was it that obvious?"
"Sadly, yes. Luckily you have me around to teach you how to attract stallions, mares, or any other kind of creature you desire. Consider it an apology for my behavior earlier."
"O-ok if there's time, I might take you up on your offer."
Chrysalis grinned. "Now there's a good mare."
Gaius awoke feeling much better than he had before. Although he had some rather strange dreams, mostly involving the changeling queen. Ironically, the very same mare was sitting next to the couch he was lying on with a huge grin on her face.
It was hard for him to admit but he felt really awkward around her right now, considering that parts of his dream involved her in some rather...compromising positions. Gaius shrugged mentally and passed it off as merely an odd dream.
"How long was I out?"
"Not terribly long."
"Oh well that's...wait, I can understand you again! How is this possible?"
Chrysalis nonchalantly blew on her hoof. "You and I shared a mind meld. It's all very complicated changeling magic so I won't bore you with the details, but rest assured you are now fluent in Equestrian."
"A mind meld...that sounds so bizarre."
"It's simple; we shared all of our knowledge and memories with each other. I know of the human world now and you know of my past."
"Huh...so when I saw you in those dreams, that was actually your memories?"
"Mhmm and I bet you saw some interesting things. Oh and by the way, I just so happened to see a few interesting things myself. You are a fascinating creature, Gaius Septimus." |
SPQR | Duas Aquilas. | Chapter 7
Lyra's apartment, Ponyville
Gaius sat on the couch trying to sort through all the memories he had just experienced during the mind meld with Chrysalis. While it was true that he had seen some of them as a sort of lucid dream while he was unconscious, he now was seeing them unravel in his mind in sporadic bursts. He hoped that this wasn't something permanent because it was extraordinarily distracting. Fortunately for Gaius, someone was knocking at the door, allowing him to at least focus on something.
Lyra quickly opened the door and found several members of the Apple family standing outside. While she knew of Applejack and her filly relatives, she couldn't say that she was friends with any of them. Try as she might, Lyra couldn't hide the surprise on her face. After all, why would AJ want to visit her?
AJ smiled. "Howdy Lyra! Do ya mind if we come in for a bit?"
"Oh...yeah sure come on in. Sorry I'm not used to getting visitors, especially from the Apple family. What brings you by?"
"I'll be honest with ya; it was all Bloom's idea. She and her cousin wanted to visit the human so they could properly thank 'im. Heh...they even went and baked an apple pie. As for me, I'm just along for the ride."
"I'm sure Gaius will appreciate the pie but just be gentle around him. He's not feeling too good right now."
"Oh no, what's wrong with 'im? Is he sick or somethin'?"
"He's experiencing some side effects from a spell. Hopefully a little rest will make them go away."
AJ poked Lyra in the chest. "You unicorns and yer damned magic! Y'all don't ever realize how dangerous that stuff might be to us plain folk."
"Look...I know you deeply distrust magic but he's ok for now. I promise that I'll be more careful in the future. You know I wouldn't intentionally hurt him."
"Fine, just don't be doin' anythin' rash sugarcube."
Despite her trepidation with magic, AJ couldn't help but chuckle as she saw her sister and Babs practically topple the poor human over with hugs. It bothered AJ that he looked like he was about to throw up, if his pale complexion was anything to go by. But he still managed to pat both of the fillies on the head despite himself. Once he gathered his bearings, the fillies presented him with a still steaming apple pie. Gaius merely stared at the pastry in confusion.
"I'm sorry but what is this?"
"It's an apple pie silly! Babs and ah baked it ourselves with an old family recipe. C'mon go ahead and take a bite."
"Apple pie? I can't say I'm familiar with that particular dish. It certainly smells good."
Babs grinned. "Nopony makes 'em better! I'm sure you'll like it."
The pasty was already sliced into eight equal sections, making it easier to eat. Gaius picked up a slice, giving it an experimental nibble. It was unlike anything he had ever tasted. The crust was light and buttery, while the inside tasted of apples and a faint hint of cinnamon. How did these ponies afford such expensive spices to flavor their food? The cinnamon alone was worth its weight in gold, making it affordable to only the richest of Rome's citizens.
Gaius eyed the rest of the pie with hungry eyes, wanting more but felt guilty for not sharing. As a soldier he often had to get by on meager portions of food. It really wasn't a good idea to gorge one's self before a battle or even during normal encampment routines. Such gluttony only led to severe vomiting and crippling stomach cramps. Besides, he truly enjoyed the fillies' company and didn't mind sharing.
AJ noticed his pensive look and frowned with concern. "What's wrong sugarcube? Is the pie not to yer likin'?"
"Oh no...well it's actually quite delicious. I just feel guilty having it all to myself, considering how much effort it must have taken to prepare it."
"Effort? Ah don't quite follow."
"Surely such a fine pastry must have taken quite some time to prepare. Not only that, but the ingredients must have cost a small fortune! I am but a simple soldier, undeserving of such rare and expensive cuisine."
All three of the Apples stared at each other and laughed. Babs had it the worst though, as she rolled around the floor trying not to suffocate herself. Of the three AJ regained her composure the quickest and once she did, the mare gave Gaius a reassuring pat on the arm.
"What? Did I say something wrong?"
"Nah, it ain't that. Ya don't have to worry about puttin' us in the poor house, 'cause apple pies are easy to make. In fact, we make 'em all the time and sell 'em for profit."
"You mean to tell me that such delicacies are commonplace in Equestria?"
"They most certainly are...well at least the apple pies anyway. Although ah reckon you might be able to get Pinkie to make ya some more sweets, if ya asked her nice enough."
"No, I meant the spices you use. Apples were common in my world but the cinnamon; oh no that was quite a luxury. Why one libra of it would cost nearly ten month's labor!"
AJ cocked her brow in confusion. "What in tarnation is a libra? And where did you get the notion that spices cost so much? Ah can go right into Ponyville and get 'em at the market."
"It is a form of measurement in my world, equivalent to your pound. But never mind that. Are you saying that ponykind cultivates so much cinnamon that even the common folk can afford it!?"
"Uhh well...yeah ah guess. From what ah understand it ain't real hard to grow. In fact, mah cousins down south own a farm that has a few acres of cinnamon trees."
"I know that my reaction must seem strange to you but cinnamon is a very expensive and difficult spice to obtain in my world. It is something that only the wealthy can afford in most cases. Despite its commonality here, I very much appreciate the pasty all of you made me. It was unlike anything I've ever tasted."
"That's good to hear and ah think you might have earned some brownie points with Bloom and Babs today. Heh...just be lucky you're not a colt, otherwise they might've taken a fancy to you."
Both of the fillies blushed heavily, rubbing their hooves together. Rather than feel awkward about the situation, Gaius found it endearing. They reminded him somewhat of his daughter. Once he finished another slice of pie, he scooped them both up in his arms and gave them a fatherly embrace.
"Thank you both. Now is there anyone else here who wants some pie?"
Chrysalis shifted her gaze over to Gaius and the two fillies. She noted with a smirk, that they were practically oozing affection towards the human. If she were in that position, they would have been sucked dry of every delicious little morsel of emotion. But she wasn't really in a position to do so, it would reveal her secret. She decided to focus on the pie instead. While Chrysalis didn't particularly enjoy pony cuisine, she had to admit that the pie certainly smelled good. Perhaps one slice wouldn't hurt...
Apple Bloom scampered over to Chrysalis. "Ah don't believe I've ever seen you before. Mah name's Apple Bloom, are you new in town or somethin'?"
Oh how lovely, yet another rambunctious filly to deal with. "Yes, you could say that. I'm Lyra's cousin, Chrysanthemum and I'm going to be staying here for a while. Call me Chrissy if you wish."
Chrysalis was a bit annoyed when Apple Bloom didn't immediately reply. The filly seemed to be intently staring at her flank for some reason. Didn't her parents ever teach her that ogling another mare's flank was rude? She certainly was old enough to know better. The changeling was about to retort, when Apple Blooms eyes sparkled with a mixture of excitement and giddiness.
"OH MAH GOSH! You don't have your cutie mark yet do ya?"
"Ehh, well of course not. I'm just a filly, you know."
"Babs, Sweetie and ah don't either. Hey would you happen to wanna join our club? It's all sorts o' fun and we have our own clubhouse. We all help each other get our cutie marks. So what do ya say? Are ya interested?"
Chrysalis mentally sighed. "I've already met your friend Sweetie and she approached me with a similar offer. I suppose I'll join, considering how bored I am right now. But before we do anything, I must have a piece of pie."
Despite the lack of nutritional value she gained from it, Chrysalis had to admit that the pie was quite good. No wonder Gaius was so forthcoming with his compliments. Unfortunately this brought her mind to the current crisis she faced. At some point she would need emotions to feed on or else she'd face starvation. Certainly the ponies wouldn't want to share any of theirs, not after the whole Canterlot fiasco.
After a few moments she found her thoughts gravitating towards the human and the interesting memories he had given her. Would he be willing to share some of his emotions with her? If so, then how would she go about extracting them? So far, she had detected only faint wisps of affection raiding off of him...but they were projected towards the fillies. Affection could be filling but only if it was concentrated, like when she brainwashed Shining Armor to give her what Cadence would have received.
Her other option was to make these supposed "Cutie Mark Crusaders" believe she was their friend in order to gain affection from them. While it wasn't technically stealing, it was still deceptive and Chrysalis felt that she would not only provoke the pony's ire but that of the human's as well. She would have to earn their affection through genuine friendship...as much as it annoyed her. Sometimes doing the right thing was such a pain in the flank.
Babs smiled. "Don't worry Chrissy, I think you'll fit right in! Oh and we'll make you a cool cape too so we can all have matching uniforms when we go crusading!"
"Hooray! I get to wear some ridiculous cape. I can hardly contain my excitement."
Meanwhile, AJ took off her hat and began to grip its edges. It was a nervous habit she had developed when she had to ask for help or if she felt she was deceiving somepony. While it was true that she came over to help deliver the pie, she also wanted to ask Gaius for a favor. It felt wrong to her because she already owed him so much. During summer the apple trees needed to be trimmed in preparation for the fall harvest.
It was quite a daunting task for two ponies and under normal circumstances she would have asked some of her cousins to help out. Sadly most of them were busy with their own ventures at the moment, so that left her with the option of outsourcing. She noted that the human had a significant height advantage compared to ponies, which would allow him to reach branches that were higher up. Furthermore, he had hands as opposed to hooves. His increased dexterity would certainly help speed things up as well. And so with a nervous gulp she prodded the human's shoulder with her hoof.
"Hey Gaius, ah was wonderin' if ah might ask you somethin'."
"Sure, what is it?"
"This ain't real easy for me to say but...ah need some help back at the farm. Normally ah wouldn't ask anypony but mah cousins to help, however they're all busy right now. Granny's too old to be of much help and Bloom doesn't have the stamina yet. So, it's just Mac and ah who do most of the field work. The apple trees need trimmed and ah was sorta hopin' that you'd lend us a hand?"
"Hmm...I was never really much of a farmer but I suppose I could help. Of course, I'm going to need payment for my services."
AJ's ears flattened. "O-of course but I can't really offer you too much in the way of bits right now, since it's so early in the summer. We haven't gotten much of our produce stock out to market yet. But ah guess ah could scrounge somethin' up."
Gaius chuckled. "I wasn't talking about coin, silly mare! I'm more interested in sampling more of your fine cuisine. Tell you what, how about I come over and work today and you provide dinner. How's that sound?"
"Oh well that sounds like a square deal to me. Ah reckon Granny wouldn't mind cookin' up some extra grub. Consider yourself hired!"
Apple Bloom trotted over to her sister. "Is he gonna be over for supper? Can ah invite Chrissy too? Oh and then we can all have a sleep over at the clubhouse!"
"Ah suppose that wouldn't hurt anythin' but y'all better not cause a ruckus with all o' that crusader business. Otherwise, none of ya will be eatin' supper."
Both Babs and Bloom gave her their most innocent smiles. "Ok, we'll be good."
Sweet Apple Acres, Ponyville
Gaius walked through the west orchard with Applejack trotting alongside. He had to admit that he was impressed by how large the farm actually was. Even more impressive was the fact that these ponies didn't have the natural dexterity that humans did, but they did at least have farming tools. The two fillies (plus one changeling) had decided to come along and help with what they could. Bloom and Babs were more than happy to help but Chrysalis stared blankly at all the trees, letting out a dejected sigh. Clearly she was out of her element.
Apple Bloom nudged her shoulder. "What's wrong Chrissy?"
"You wouldn't understand."
"Ah bet ah can! Why? Don't ya think I'm old enough or somethin'?"
"No...it isn't that. It's just that, I'm not really used to this whole manual labor thing."
"You're starting to sound like Rarity but ah guess it must be a unicorn thing. Look if ya aren't comfortable with getting' you're hooves dirty, then you can just use your magic. Babs and ah don't mind."
"Ugghh I guess so. I can't believe I'm being forced to do this. Such work is meant for dro--errm I mean dependable colts."
"You ain't bein' forced to do anythin' Chrissy and why would you think fillies can't do this sort o' thing?"
"Excuse me for having a more romantic view of the world!"
Babs stomped her hooves on the ground. "C'mon girls! There's no reason for us to be arguing. If Chrissy doesn't wanna do the dirty stuff, then we can do it. She can help us move the clippings basket with her magic instead."
With a low grumble Chrysalis accepted her fate, levitating a small wicker basket as the group moved from tree to tree. Applejack had taken it upon herself to carry a small ladder so that Gaius could reach the topmost branches. Once they had completed an entire row of trees, Gaius noticed a burly, red stallion slowly make his way towards Applejack. He too was carrying a wicker basket full of clippings strapped onto his back. Upon seeing this new stallion, both Apple Bloom and AJ ran up to him and gave him affectionate nuzzles. Gaius climbed down the ladder and approached the stallion with caution.
"Hello my name is Gaius and who might you be?"
"Name's Mac. I'm AJ and Bloom's brother. Are you the fella who's supposed to be helpin' out 'round the orchards?"
"That is correct. Have you been working on that entire row of trees all by yourself?"
"Eeyup."
"I can't even imagine how tiring that must be. Back in my world such work would take the combined effort of several farmers and a few hours labor. Aren't you exhausted?"
"Mmnope. Used to it ah guess. Ah can tell you're a hard worker just by your muscles. Ah don't mean any offence to ya but we earthponies are known for our stamina, so ah reckon you'd never be able to do all that on your own."
Gaius chuckled. "None taken. Even the horses from my world had far more stamina than any man. How many more rows of trees do all of you intend to complete?"
"Hmm, I'd say about two more. It'll probably be dinner time by then. Eeyup I'm sure of it, judgin' by the position o' the sun."
"I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but you're going to have to put your dinner plans on hold."
The entire group fixed their attention towards the mysterious new speaker. On top of one of the apple trees sat a rather large griffon, busy filing his claws. His feathers were snow white and his lower half was also white, but covered in leopard spots. He was clad in a black colored leather coat, complete with a multitude of pouches. While griffons weren't unheard of in Equestria, what made this one stand out were his eyes. One of them was slate grey, while the other was completely aquamarine and lacked any kind of pupil.
AJ dug her hooves into the ground. "Who are you and what is your business here?"
"Tsk tsk, there's no need to be rude fraulein, I'm only here on business. Aaand that business doesn't concern the Apple family."
"Well would ya at least tell us your name?"
The griffon bowed. "But of course! My name is Siegfried von Messerschnabel, but you pony-folk may call me Sigs."
"It's not like griffons come 'round these parts often, so what brings ya here?"
"As I said earlier, I'm not interested in ponies whatsoever. I'm what you would call a soldier of fortune. I hunt things for a living. My investigation has led me to Ponyville, where I believe a changeling might be lurking about."
"There ain't any changelings 'round these parts. Princess Cadence and Twi's brother kicked 'em all out a couple o' years ago."
Sigs chuckled. "So you were led to believe. Do you see this special eye that I have? I obviously wasn't born with it, I...obtained it a few years ago. It is a changeling's eye that allows me to see through their illusions and track them. I won't go into the details of how it was implanted, but suffice to say it was painful."
"Ah don't understand...who would put you up to huntin' those varmints down?"
"Mostly the nobles in Canterlot, but I've had other clients. They fear another invasion and rightly so. Those shape-shifting cockroaches can't be trusted, especially with their queen still on the loose."
AJ's eyes widened in shock. "Queen Chrysalis is s-still around!?"
"Ja, I'm afraid it's true. In fact, I believe she is near...so very near. Tell me, what do you know of that little unicorn filly over there? She just recently came into town did she not?"
"Umm, well ah guess so. You'd have to ask Gaius, since he's been with more than ah have."
"Gaius? Oh you must be referring to the affenmensch, with the odd armor. Since that certainly isn't any name I've ever heard used around this region. He certainly is an odd looking creature but I am not here to hunt him."
Gaius unsheathed his gladius. "You'd best choose your words carefully hybrid. I'm not some lowly creature to be trifled with."
"A feisty one eh? I like that. Tell me affenmensch, what do you know of the unicorn?"
"She is the cousin of the mare I'm currently staying with."
"I'd like to believe you. I really would...but this eye of mine never lies. All I see is a changeling queen, not a little black filly. I have no quarrel with you, so long as you give her to me. If you choose to protect her, then I can assure you that my talons will receive an ample amount of exercise."
Apple Bloom nudged Gaius's leg. "Mr. Gaius, is all of that true? Is Chrissy really a changeling?"
"She is, but now isn't the time to discuss this. Make sure that you stay behind your brother and sister, I don't want this griffon to harm you or Chrissy."
"O-ok but make sure ya don't get hurt."
Sigs cracked his talons. "So you have chosen the hard way? Very well then. I can't promise that your death will be quick or painless. Who knows, maybe your hide will fetch a nice price on the market." |
SPQR | Sanguinem et Ignem | Chapter 8
Sweet Apple Acres, Ponyville
Gaius gripped the pommel of his gladius tightly, as he often did before battle. In barely a whisper he offered a prayer to Mars, to give him the strength to overcome his foes and to protect the innocent from harm. The Roman gnashed his teeth, thinking of how to best deal with a foe that had the ability of flight. While it was true that some men would hunt birds with a bow, he had never learned how. The only projectile weapon he was even remotely adept with was the pilum, which he lacked at the moment. This also reminded him that he was missing his shield. At some point he'd have to ask Lyra if there were any blacksmiths in town to rectify his situation.
The griffon's wings would need to be disabled or at the very least, he needed to keep the creature close to the ground. But how would he go about doing that? Gaius looked around and remembered they were in an orchard. The trees of course! They would help him corner the hybrid. Birds could hop from branch to branch and would not be encumbered by them, but the griffon was far larger. Surely the branches and leaves would encumber his ability to take off. All Gaius had to do was make sure he stayed near the trees and avoid any open space. With a few flaps and feline-like pounce, the griffon positioned himself in a fighting stance.
Sigs licked the outside of his beak. "So you use ein Kurzschwert hmm? I can't say I'm surprised. Those stubby fingers of yours could barely rip apart a piece of fruit, let alone rend flesh. Allow me to show how a true predator hunts!"
The griffon's hind legs released like a coiled spring, as he lunged at Gaius with his extended talons. Gaius sidestepped in an attempt to doge the attack and managed to avoid any serious injury but a few seconds later he felt a stinging sensation along his left arm. The cut wasn't very deep because he had only been grazed; however it was still too close for comfort in Gaius's opinion. The griffon lunged at him again, but this time he was ready. He slid underneath Sigs and delivered a solid kick to the hybrid's genitals. The griffon was so shocked that he ended up slamming himself, head-first into the trunk of a nearby apple tree.
Gaius smirked. "You forgot about my stubby feet."
The griffon picked himself up and staggered a bit before regaining his composure. With a primal screech he flew at full speed, delivering a kick of his own to Gaius's chest. The roman was knocked back a few feet, subsequently losing the grip on his gladius as well. While chainmail was good for deterring slash wounds, it did little to cushion against blunt force impacts. However, that didn't mean Gaius wasn't used to such trauma. He didn't know where his gladius went, so he thought it best to lure the griffon to him and make it appear as if he was helpless. Once the griffon got close enough, he would attack with bare fists to disable the creature and then look for his gladius.
Sigs sauntered over to Gaius's "helpless" form. "You certainly know how to fight dirty affenmensch! But such is the nature of weak creatures. They hide under layers of armor to protect their feeble bodies and resort to cowardly tactics, in order to achieve victory. I shall enjoy skinning you."
Without warning Gaius slammed his elbow right into the griffon's beak. Sigs screamed in pain and surprise as Gaius grabbed him by the neck and pinned him to the ground. The centurion was strong, but only by human standards. A griffon, on the other hand, had the muscle mass equivalent to that of a lion on earth. Once Sigs regained his composure he delivered a brutal head-butt, sending the human into a nearby tree trunk.
While Gaius was certainly dazed, he still had enough wherewithal to realize that his gladius was lying next to the tree. With the sword firmly in hand, he looked around to find his foe. Gaius swore under his breath, desperately searing for his winged foe but the griffon was nowhere to be found. When he heard a little filly scream at the top of her lungs, his blood froze.
Sigs had managed to fly all the way over to the barn, where the rest of the ponies were hiding. In his claws was none other than Apple Bloom, desperately trying to escape the griffon's grasp. As soon as Gaius came charging at him with his sword, Sigs merely took off and landed on top of the barn waggling one of his talons.
"Ah ah, I wouldn't be so hasty if I were you. If my concentration were to be interrupted for even a split second, I might accidently slit the poor Madchen's throat. You don't want to get blood all over that beautiful yellow coat of hers, would you?"
Gaius lowered his gladius. "Leave her out of this! She has nothing to do with your bounty."
"Perhaps not, but I don't ever play fair. I'm a mercenary not some law abiding soldier. Honor is overrated in my opinion and rarely does it leave me with a full coin purse."
Meanwhile, Big Mac struggled to keep AJ restrained as she tried to attack the griffon. "LET ME AT 'EM! I'll teach that lousy piece o' bird shit not to mess with mah sister. You hear that! You're lucky mah brother is here or I'd break every little bone in your scrawny hide and then fillet you alive!"
Sigs petted Apple Bloom. "It's so touching to see family that cares for each other. Too bad my own childhood consisted of beatings from my worthless alcoholic father. Ah but do not fret, I made sure he suffered a painful death. There's nothing like being buried up to your neck in sand and left to die in the hot, unforgiving desert. I often wonder. Did the vultures devour his carcass? HA! The irony of a bird of prey being devoured by a BIRD OF PREY! Hahahaha!"
AJ's hot tears stained the ground. "You're nothin' but a monster."
"But a monster that survives, dear fraulein. You have one last chance ponies, give me the changeling or the filly dies. You have thirty seconds to decide. Choose wisely."
Gaius threw his gladius into the ground, growling in frustration. He had underestimated the depths of depravity Sigs was willing to go, to achieve his goals. Now he was equal parts conflicted and angry. Two lives were in the balance: Both Chrysalis and Apple Bloom. On the one hand he felt that it was wrong to let this monster capture Chrysalis, even if she had a tumultuous past. She deserved a second chance, just like anyone else. Then there was Apple Bloom. She was only a filly, an innocent that had her whole life ahead of her. He couldn't live with himself if he lost another child...one was enough. Before he could contemplate any further, a little black unicorn filly stepped out of the barn.
"Release the filly and I will subject myself to your custody."
Sigs grinned. "An intelligent decision on your part. My patron will be very pleased to see your carcass at his hooves. Although...there is one other matter I must attend to."
Sigs rummaged through one of the many pockets of his jacket and fished out a long tube, along with two feathered darts. He inserted them both into the tube and fired a dart at Chrysalis's neck. Immediately, the world around her began to swirl and her body felt as though it were made of stone. She stumbled forward, shoving her muzzle straight into the dirt. The changeling frantically tried to summon her magic but her horn only fizzled. She could still feel her mouth but when she spoke, a small strand of saliva oozed down her neck.
"W-what....have....y-you done...t-to me?"
"I have merely incapacitated you for the moment. The dart I fired into your neck is made from the ground roots of the Tongo Tree. It is a type of tree native to Zebrica and is a powerful paralyzing agent. But the most curious thing about is that it also seems to restrict the flow of magic, particularly in unicorns. It works just as well on changelings."
"Do...you...intended...to...k-kill me?"
Sigs landed next to Chrysalis. "No, my employer specifically wanted you alive for some reason. A far more difficult task but not impossible. As to what he wants to do with you...well that's anyone's guess."
"Fine...but...let...the filly...g-go."
"Oh yes, how rude of me! You may have her back if...YOU CAN CATCH HER!"
Sigs threw Apple Bloom against a nearby tree. The impact was strong enough to break one of her legs, as evident by her heavy sobs. Applejack galloped towards Apple Bloom as fast as her hooves could carry her, while Gaius grabbed his gladius and charged at the griffon. Gaius rammed Sigs into a tree, which broke one of his wings with a sickening snap. While the hybrid was momentarily stunned by the pain, Gaius plunged his sword straight into the meat of the griffon's shoulder. In response, Sigs jammed his remaining dart into Gaius's leg and gave the human a quick punch to the chest for good measure.
Gaius, like Chrysalis, began to feel the poison's effects almost immediately. But the one thing that he had going for that Chrysalis didn't was the sheer amount of adrenaline coursing through his veins. This served to only slow the poison's effects, but it was enough to keep him on his feet.
Sigs clutched his injured shoulder. "You certainly are a persistent little bastard, I'll give you that. However, it won't be long until the Tongo root starts to affect your body. Then and only then, will I kill you."
"You coward..."
"Again, what's with everyone being obsessed with honor? I am injured and you are a strong and skilled opponent. It would be suicide for me to attack you as I am. Don't despair though; at least your precious ponies are still alive."
With on final burst of fury, Gaius plunged his gladius into the griffon's neck. Sigs's eyes widened in surprise as he let out a final, gurgling croak. As soon as body hit the ground, Gaius picked up his sword once more and began to savagely mutilate the corpse. The ponies watched in horror as their human friend worked himself into a frenzy, coating himself and the grass in blood. Gaius screamed at the top of lungs as he slashed the desecrated corpse one final time. After that, the poison guided him into sweet, unconscious bliss.
Arretium, The Roman Empire
Gaius awoke to the smell of lilacs and the feel a midsummer's gentle breeze. He rose out of bed and slipped on a white tunic and began to pour himself a goblet of wine. As he was enjoying his wine, he heard the sound of the sheets rustling behind him. Gaius smiled when he felt his wife's arms wrap around his chest.
"Ah good morning Florentia, I trust you slept well?"
"Mhmm and you knew I would too. Especially after all the things we did last night."
Gaius gave her a quick peck on the cheek. "I do what I can."
"Well I guess I better put something on before Alcmene walks in on us."
"Do you really have to? I was beginning to enjoy the view..."
"We'll have plenty of time for that tonight. Today is when she starts her tutoring; you know how important that is."
"Oh right, I nearly forgot about that. Sorry."
"It's alright; I know you've been busy training recruits for the new campaign."
Gaius rubbed the back of his neck. "Yes and they're all going to excellent legionnaires but...it always saddens me knowing that some of them will die. I can't imagine what you two would go through if something happened to me."
Florentia took his and gripped it tightly. "Don't think that way my love. Even if you die out there, in the frontier, you have provided us a bounty to live off of. You are a wonderful husband and a loving father and I will always carry that in my heart, even if you are no longer with me."
"Thank you Florentia I..."
Gaius was interrupted when a six year old girl padded her way across the tile floor. He knelt to one knee and wrapped the girl in a bone crushing hug.
"Papa!"
"How's my little sunflower doing?"
"Good. Did you know that I start my tutoring today?"
Gaius chuckled. "Yes, your mother told me. I hear that your teacher is all the way from Athens. You should consider yourself lucky; Athens has some of the brightest minds in the world."
"Papa...are you going away again? I remember the last time you left and Momma got really sad. I don't want you to leave, 'cause I get really sad too."
"Alcmene, I know it makes the both of you sad but it's my duty. When the emperor calls, I must answer."
Alcmene crossed her arms. "I don't care about duty...or whatever that is. I just want you here, with us!"
"Think of it this way: I'm a big, strong, soldier that protects you right?"
"Umm...yeah."
"Well I get to be a big, strong, soldier to everybody else in the empire too. Don't you want everyone else to be safe too?"
"Yeah, I guess that's not so bad. But promise me you'll come back soon?"
Gaius patted her head. "I'll try my best sunflower. Now why don't you scamper off to the kitchen and get some breakfast. You can't study on an empty stomach, after all."
Once Alcmene went into the kitchen, Gaius turned his back to his wife. She was sitting on the bed gently brushing her long, curly brown hair. He went to place his hand on her shoulder and noticed that her skin was hotter than coals in a fire. It was very strange because her skin didn't appear abnormal whatsoever. All of the sudden, the entire room began to feel like he was inside an oven.
Gaius looked around frantically to find to source of his discomfort but everything in the villa seemed normal. That is, until everything began to catch on fire. Within seconds the entire villa was engulfed in a hellacious inferno that threatened to burn everyone alive. He turned to his wife to grab her arm and found that her entire body was consumed by flames. She merely turned around and stared at him with horrible, semi-molten eyes.
"What's wrong my love?"
Gaius stumbled to the floor with a scream of panic, only to see his wife continue to comb her nearly non-existent hair, as if nothing was wrong. He nearly broke into hysterical sobbing when he saw Alcmene come out of the kitchen, flashing him a toothy grin from her burning skull. Why was everything like this? Was this his punishment for not being there when they perished in that terrible fire? The blaze around him held no answers, as he sank to his knees and let the flames consume him.
Lyra's apartment, Ponyville
Gaius awoke with a scream, finding himself drenched in sweat. At some point, somebody had put him in a bed and bandaged his left arm. He also noticed that he was completely naked underneath the bed sheets. The dream had felt so real and some small part of him had wished that he had finally gone to Elysium to reunite with his wife and child. But he was back in Equestria now, apparently alive...and not so well. He took in a deep breath to try and calm himself, only to realize how dry his throat was. As luck would have it, a very tired looking Chrysalis stood in the doorway levitating a glass of water.
"You really should drink this. It isn't very healthy to stay dehydrated."
Gaius greedily chugged the water. "What happened?"
"You passed out from the poison, much like I did. Although it took you far longer to recover from it. I suspect that is because you metabolized it faster than I did."
"How long have I been out?"
Chrysalis rubbed her chin. "About two days, give or take a few hours."
"T-that long!? By the gods. What of Apple Bloom, how is she?"
"She has a broken leg but is otherwise ok."
Gaius breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that the little filly was ok. It still galled him that the mercenary had the nerve to treat her like she was nothing but a sack of trash. In the end, the griffon got his just desserts. Scum like him didn't deserve to live.
"Where are all the other ponies?"
Chrysalis chuckled. "They're probably all asleep, considering it's the middle of the night. But you should probably thank that minty unicorn mare first, since she's the one that bathed you and cleaned you up."
"What about you? I know from our mind meld that you don't need much sleep, but that doesn't explain why you're here."
"Well I...wanted to thank you for saving my life. Nobody has ever cared about me like that before and...I-I feel as if I owe you some gratitude. If I had to stay here and look after you for another week, then I would've done it. So...ermm, thank you."
"You're welcome but there is no need to thank me. I was simply..."
Chrysalis placed the tip of her hoof on his mouth. "I don't care. I'm going to be thankful and reward you, whether you like it or not. Just accept it, Gaius Septimus."
"What exactly do you have in mind?"
"Oh I think you'll like what I have to offer."
Gaius looked in fascination as the changeling's body was enveloped in green flames. As the flames dissipated, Chrysalis took on a completely new form. Before him stood a slender human female with shoulder length aquamarine hair. Her eyes were a deep emerald and her skin was a pale as the snow. To say that she was beautiful would have been like saying that Rome was a mere city. Chrysalis slowly climbed into the bed and positioned herself behind Gaius, pushing her soft breasts into his back while laying her head on his shoulder.
Gaius swallowed hard. "W-what are you doing?"
The queen giggled and drew lazy circles in his chest with her fingers. "I'm letting you fuck me. I thought that was obvious at this point. You haven't had a female companion in some time right? I know you don't want to lay those silly little ponies, so I'm offering you an alternative."
"I mean, are you sure this is what you want? I'm not even a pony myself so..."
"Oh please! I'm a changeling. I've fucked far stranger creatures than you. It's not as if I've restricted myself to being attracted to any single species. You might be some monkey creature but you're not hard on the eyes...at least in my opinion."
"That's honestly...a bit surprising. I didn't think you were attracted to me at all."
Chrysalis kissed his neck. "Oh I wasn't, at least not initially. But saving a mare's life earns you quite a few points on the affection scale."
"I'm not really sure how I feel about this."
"You don't have to feel anything about it. Just accept and enjoy. You get laid and I get some lust energy, everybody wins!" |
SPQR | Gratia | Chapter 9
Lyra's Apartment, Ponyville
Chrysalis had to admit that her human form felt strange. It wasn't because she now walked on two legs; she had done so before while masquerading as a minotaur. No, what felt odd was the fact that her lack of fur increased her sense of touch dramatically. Under normal circumstances, she would have a layer of chitin covering her entire body. It was true that chitin was tactile, much like fur, but it was far duller than her new human skin. She marveled at every little sensation: the feel of the sheets, the subtle flow of air in the room and the warmth of Gaius's skin against her own. But she wanted more. Hoping that Gaius would respond, she planted a gentle kiss along the side of his neck.
Gaius sighed. "Chrysalis, I appreciate what you're trying to do but...I'm not sure I'm in the mood right now."
"What's wrong? Am I not attractive enough? Judging by your memories, I thought this form was appealing to your tastes..."
"It's not that. You are, quite possibly, one of the most beautiful women I've ever seen."
"Well, then what's wrong?"
"The nightmare I had...it disturbed me a great deal. I can't stop thinking about it."
Chrysalis rubbed his shoulders. "Do you want to talk about it? I might not be able to help you very much, but at least I'll listen."
Gaius clenched his fists in frustration. Any red-blooded man would have ravished Chrysalis by now and yet...here he was thinking about that past, instead of letting this beautiful woman pleasure him. But the dream had been so vivid, so unnerving, and so very heart breaking. It reminded him once more that he had failed to be there for them. He had failed his duty as a husband and as a father, to protect his most treasured possessions from harm. Sympathy was often easy to come by but did those well-wishers truly comprehend what he had been through?
He was about to brush off the idea when he remembered that behind him was a woman (at least for the moment) who had suffered through incredible loss as well. Did she mourn the death of her children, as he did? Was it right to open up his heart to her?
"Yes, I do...eventually. But is that a responsibility you truly wish to bear?"
Chrysalis padded over to the window and placed her hand on it. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, apparently lost in her own thoughts. Gaius himself was short of breath; as he witnessed a single beam of moonlight reflect off of her pale form. He felt a knot form in his stomach as he realized how agonizingly beautiful she was at that moment. She turned around slowly and smiled.
"I-I...think, no I am ready. For ill or better, I shall bear it. I owe you my life Gaius Septimus. Whatever pleasure I grant you this night is only but a small part of that debt. On my honor as a queen I swear I will offer you my shoulder to lean on, if ever you grow weary of this world or the last."
Gaius also felt a warm smile spread across his lips. A few moments later he gently wrapped his arms around Chrysalis's waist and rested his head upon her shoulder. The queen let out a surprised yelp but she eventually regained her senses and entwined her fingers with Gaius's.
"Thank you Chrysalis, it means a great deal to me hearing you say that. Forgive me, but it has been some time since I've...been intimate with another woman. I will try my best to make this a pleasurable experience for you as well."
Chrysalis used her free hand to stoke Gaius's hair. "It's been an eternity since I last sought genuine companionship. I had almost forgotten what it feels like...to be loved. True, I may have tricked others to love me in the past but that's all it was...just a convenient trick. They never truly loved me for being me."
Instead of answering with words, Gaius cupped his hand underneath her chin and guided her lips to his own. The queen hungrily accepted his kiss, immediately plunging her own tongue into his mouth, eager to explore its depths. After a minute of passionate tongue wrestling, Chrysalis broke off, leaving a thin strand of saliva between them. As she caught her breath the changeling noticed that Gaius had finally started to warm up to her. And so with a throaty chuckle she levitated a surprised Gaius onto the edge of the bed.
"Well now, it seems like somebody's excited to see me. Whatever shall I do?"
He was about to answer but his reply came out as more of a grunt. Chrysalis held the middle of his shaft up with two fingers and began to slowly lick it from the base all the way to the tip. After feeling him shudder she gently lapped the head for time, until a small bead of pre-cum formed at the tip. With a satisfied giggle she grabbed the base with one hand as she took his length into her mouth. She started off slowly, working her way up to a faster pace until she made very audible slurping noises.
Gaius felt the familiar tension build up in his loins, until he could bear it no longer. He gripped the sheets beneath him tightly and gave a short gasp of release. Chrysalis immediately stopped bobbing her head and released him with a wet pop. She brushed a stray strand of hair from her face, giving Gaius a few moments to recover. She squeaked in surprise when he immediately began to fondle her left breast, which was accompanied by his tongue swirling around her nipple.
As a changeling, she didn't have teats but she did experience the feeling of being played with while transformed as a mare. But nothing could have prepared her for the sensations she was feeling with her new human breasts. They were larger and had more nerve endings, making them much more sensitive to the touch. All the while she began to feel a familiar warmth build between her lips, driving her mad with desire. She waited until Gaius was finished suckling her and then she pushed him onto his back. Without preamble, she slowly lowered herself onto his throbbing cock. Chrysalis ground her hips at an ever increasing pace, going as fast she dared.
After a few minutes Gaius climaxed again, followed by her own a few seconds later. Both of them collapsed into a sweaty heap of jumbled limbs, tired but otherwise satisfied. Chrysalis laid her head on top of his chest as Gaius gently stroked her hair. He paused briefly to plant a kiss her on the forehead.
"Did you enjoy that, your majesty?"
Chrysalis giggled. "That was wonderful. It certainly bears repeating. But for now, let us snuggle....I'm exhausted."
Gaius resumed stroking her hair and sure enough he heard light snoring. He was amazed how serene she looked while asleep; it was a stark contrast to what she looked like in her natural form. A thought occurred to him. He wasn't really attracted to her changeling form at all. It was a rather shallow thought, but true none the less. Maybe, just maybe, she would be willing to stay in this form for him. Gaius frowned at how utterly selfish that was. But he couldn't deny that it made him feel a little less lonely having another human around. Pushing such thoughts aside, he kissed her on the cheek one final time.
"Pleasant dreams, Chrysalis."
Lyra awoke to the annoying chimes of her alarm clock. She slowly emerged from her warm cocoon of bed sheets, wishing she could sleep all day long. Sadly, she could not. A week from now she was due to perform a harp solo, as part of the Canterlot Philharmonic Orchestra. And as with any official performances, she needed to dress professionally. Luckily, Ponyville had a resident fashonista who could whip up a ravishing ensemble on short notice. Lyra was never really one to leave things to the last minute, so she commissioned Rarity to make her dress a week ago. Today was the day the dress was supposed to be ready.
With a loud yawn she trotted into the bathroom to prepare for her eventual trip. She frowned at the mare that greeted her in the mirror. Her eyes were bloodshot and had darkened bags underneath them. Lyra's condition had much to do with her constantly fretting over the condition of her human roommate. She very nearly had a panic attack when Chrysalis showed up at her door, with Gaius slumped over her back. He had apparently fought some griffon and ended up not only getting poisoned but had a myriad of different injuries.
Chrysalis herself looked like she had been hit by a steam train and promptly collapsed as soon as Gaius was tended to. With nopony else around, Lyra took it upon herself to look after the two...much to her chagrin. Despite the difficulty with tending to their wounds, Lyra was grateful that they were both ok.
Casting her worries aside, the unicorn focused on brushing her teeth. Once she was satisfied that her mouth didn't smell like rancid onions, she filled the sink with a bit of water and splashed it on her face in order to freshen up a bit. She checked herself in the mirror once more and realized that she still had horrible bed-mane.
Lyra rummaged through the cabinet, desperately trying to find her favorite mane brush but couldn't find it. The brush was always in the bathroom, right next to the sink. So why wasn't it there? After a few minutes of frustrated pacing, a thought occurred to her. She had used the brush while taking care of Gaius, so of course it wasn't in the bathroom! It had been left in his room instead. She opened the door to Gaius's room, quietly shuffling her hooves across the carpet.
It was rather dark in the room because the shades had been drawn so Lyra took it upon herself to open them just a bit, to let some light in. She was definitely not prepared for the sight that greeted her. Sprawled upon the bed was a very naked Gaius with an equally naked...human female? Lyra could only really assume it was a female, since she had never actually seen one before. Her assumptions were confirmed when it shifted its legs, revealing a very female portion of anatomy. Lyra felt like she had walked in on something she wasn't supposed to see and all she wanted to do now was retrieve her brush and bolt out the door.
Sadly, fate had other plans for Lyra Heartstrings. Due to her state of haste, one of her hooves snagged on the carpet...which naturally resulted in a loud face plant straight into the floor. The disturbance was loud enough to rouse the pair of humans from their slumber.
Gaius yawned. "Lyra...what are you doing in here?"
"I-I...errrr...was getting my brush. The real question is what were YOU doing in here?"
"Sleeping, amongst other things."
"More of the later than the former I presume."
Rather than respond, Gaius walked over to the window and rolled his shoulder a few times. After popping his neck, he stood in front of Lyra with his arms crossed. The unicorn assumed that under normal circumstances his posture was intended to convey annoyance or maybe even some intimidation...but it achieved neither of those. The only purpose it served was to give Lyra an unobstructed view of his morning erection, which promptly turned the poor mare into a blushing, stuttering wreck.
"H-how can you even walk around l-like that!?"
Gaius raised his eyebrow. "I'm not sure what you mean..."
"Please don't make me say it out loud. It's too embarrassing. J-just...look down for a second."
"I don't see...oh. Well, I guess I better throw on a tunic."
Lyra let out a frustrated growl as she levitated Gaius's tunic straight at this face. "I'm going to Rarity's place later today to get a dress and I think it would be in both of our best interests to get you some more clothes."
"Ah yes, that sounds like a practical idea."
Chrysalis in the meanwhile, had decided to get out of bed as well. As quietly as she could, she snuck up behind Lyra and pinched her cheeks. "Aww you're no fun Lyra. I definitely prefer him naked, myself."
"I should have known it was you Chrysalis. I expected to come in here and find Gaius resting but instead I found you two all over each other! He very nearly died and the first thing you thought to do when he woke up was to have sex with him? Ugghh! I don't even know what to say..."
Chrysalis crossed her arms. "For your information, I asked his permission before I did ANYTHING...not that it's any of YOUR business. What? Do you think I'm so terrible that I would rape a stallion in his sleep, just to get what I want!?"
"Well yeah. You did that with Shining Armor didn't you? Who's to say you wouldn't do that to Gaius?"
"That's...that was in the past. I admit that I've done some things I'm not proud of but I'm trying to change. I'm a different mare now. A-and...for the first time in ages I've actually come to care about someone...someone that cares for me in return. Your narrow minded judgment means nothing to me."
"C'mon Gaius, let's go to the boutique where a certain changeling won't bother us."
Chrysalis stomped over to the bathroom and slammed the door. "Go ahead and enjoy yourselves, I needed to take a bath anyway!"
The Equestrian Parliament Building, Canterlot
Blueblood idly tapped his hoof against the mahogany chair he was seated in. Once again he was bored out of his skull listening to yet another tax proposal. At least in the old days Princess Celestia had presided over such issues, but now Princess Sparkle was the one in charge. Yes, it was still boring when Celestia gave proposals but at least she would get to the point without having to go over all the excruciating little details. Princess Sparkle had been going on for two hours (with complete legal jargon) about how beneficial it was to offer tax breaks to farming operations.
Blueblood honestly didn't care if some farmers got a few extra bits at the end of the day, he would still be wealthy regardless. Just as he was about to doze off, he heard something tapping on the window above. The stallion looked up to find a crow was tapping on the glass. The winged beast stared back at him and cocked its head towards the exit. Blueblood looked at the crow again, pointing his hoof in the direction of the exit and sure enough the crow nodded its head in confirmation. He snuck out of the parliament building as quietly as he could but was stopped by Fancy Pants, whom had been sitting next to him.
"Excuse me chap, but where are you headed off to?"
Blueblood rubbed his stomach. "I'm afraid that my lunch isn't quite agreeing with me at the moment. I'll try and return as soon as possible."
"Hmm, I knew that dandelion pate was no good. I'm glad I didn't eat it! Oh and I do hope you feel better."
Blueblood nodded and made his way out to the courtyard. He found the crow perched on a small oak tree, preening its wings. After casting a few glances back and forth, he concluded that there was nopony else around to disturb him. He trotted up to the crow and cleared his throat.
"The coast is clear; you may assume your normal form."
The crow's body burst into green flames, revealing a changeling drone. "Oh thank you milord, I was growing quite anxious that somepony had begun to suspect me."
"Never mind that. This had better be important Thorax; you interrupted me during a session of parliament."
Thorax twiddled his hooves. "I-I'm afraid I have some potentially upsetting news."
"And what, pray tell, would that be?"
"There's really no easy way to put this..."
"C'mon out with it already! I don't have all day to sit around watching you fumble about like some nervous school-filly."
"R-right. Well you see milord; the griffon mercenary has been killed. I witnessed it myself."
Blueblood grabbed him by the scruff of his neck. "WHAT!? Uggghh...I spent a mountain of bits paying that deranged mongrel to track down a simple changeling, just because he was supposed to be the best tracker in the Griffon Empire. And the fool got himself killed? Why is it so hard to find competent employees these days!?"
"Umm...it wasn't a changeling that killed him milord. It was some strange armored monkey creature."
"That sounds utterly ridiculous but I suppose that stranger things have happened. Thorax, please tell me that he AT LEAST found a changeling. That way I can feel like I spent those bits on something practical."
"The griffon did indeed find a changeling. In fact, it appears to have been a queen. She could quite possibly be the one the empress was seeking."
Blueblood cocked his eyebrow. "A queen you say? Her majesty did say one might be in the vicinity. Where did the mercenary happen to find her?"
"It was at Sweet Apple Acres, milord. However, I do not know if she is staying with Apple family or not."
"Those damnable element bearers are always trying to meddle in my affairs. I already had to brush off that gorgeous unicorn at the Gala a few years ago. It took all of my willpower Thorax; she was a rather fetching piece of flank! But...I can't risk having any of Celestia's pets getting too close to me. Under no circumstances can they get wind of what we're trying to achieve."
"Of course milord. Shall I continue my surveillance of Ponyville?"
"Yes, that's probably for the best. Notify me if you find either the queen or this monkey creature. As for now, I need to get back to my seat before I'm missed." |
SPQR | Officium | Chapter 10
Carousel Boutique, Ponyville
Gaius accompanied a very irate Lyra as they stood in front of Rarity's home and workshop. After knocking on the door, he noticed just how many strange noises were coming from the boutique. There was the usual clattering of hooves but also a strange clattering noise, as if someone was tapping a pebble against a wall. A few moments later Rarity swung open the door and gave Lyra a quick peck on the cheek.
"So nice to see you again Lyra, please come in. I've been expecting you. Oh...and you brought Mr. Septimus with you as well. I'll be sure to make an extra cup of tea."
Both Lyra and Gaius took a seat on a large maroon colored couch that looked like it belonged on a noble's estate. The Roman couldn't help but note how ridiculous the entire room looked. All of the garish colors and fabrics made it look the one of the emperor's summer villas after a wild party. If this was how Rarity decorated her home, then did he really want her making clothes for him? Even if he wasn't wild about her sense of home decor, the point still remained that if he wanted clothes, she was the only seamstress in the entire town.
Rarity trotted out a few moments later, levitating a silver tray with three porcelain cups and a varied assortment of cookies. Gaius looked at his cup in confusion, not really sure what exactly "tea" was. The steaming amber liquid smelled pleasant enough, almost like flowers. Perhaps it was some kind of mead he wasn't aware of. Lyra had already started drinking out of her cup but Rarity paused and cocked her eyebrow.
"Mr. Septimus, is there something wrong?"
Gaius stared at the cup. "What exactly is this substance? Is it some kind of spiced mead?"
"Wait...you mean to tell me that you've NEVER had tea before?!"
"No, I haven't. Is that a bad thing?"
"I suppose not. However, I am a bit shocked that you've never heard of tea. What a dreary place your world must be. Luckily for you it's never too late to start enjoying the nectar of the gods!"
"I'm not sure what gods you worship Ms. Rarity, but this tea is no nectar of mine. Now if we're talking about wine, then that's different story."
Rarity grinned. "I completely agree. Life without wine is like seeing the world without color! There's nothing like cuddling up on the couch with a trashy romance novel and sipping a glass of Château de Fleur."
Gaius had no idea what Rarity was talking about but he assumed it must have been some kind of fancy wine. It seemed that some things don't change, even when you find yourself in a land run by little horses. People would fight. People would argue. But at the end of the day, they always enjoyed their spirits. With a half-hearted shrug he took a sip from his porcelain cup. It certainly was strong whatever it was, but it had a nice flowery aftertaste.
The oddest thing happened though. He felt a jolt of energy surge though his veins. Gaius took another sip and found that he felt even more alive. His mind felt sharper than ever, better than if he had gotten a full day's rest. With a slightly manic grin he stared at Rarity, practically shaking in his seat. The alabaster unicorn looked even more confused than before, almost to the point of being frightened.
"By the gods...this tea is AMAZING! I've never felt so alive before! Pray tell, why does this strange phenomenon occur?"
Rarity giggled. "Oh that's just the caffeine darling. It's a type of natural stimulant found in the tea leaves. Coffee has a similar effect but it's terribly bitter. My father loves to guzzle that horrible liquid like water. Honestly, I don't see how he can stand it."
Lyra rolled her eyes. "I don't mean to interrupt but I'd really like to see my dress."
"Oh right. Sorry Lyra, I got a bit carried away. Your dress is still in the workshop upstairs. If you'd be so kind as to follow me, I'll show it to you. Oh and Mr. Septimus, you're more than welcome to accompany us."
"No thanks, I'm not really interested in dresses."
Gaius continued to sip his tea, watching the two mares ascend the staircase. He hoped that they wouldn't take too long because he wanted to be fitted for his own set of clothing as soon as possible. With nothing better to do, the Roman pondered exactly how to spend the rest of his day. The combination of living on a strictly regimented schedule and the chaos of the last few days meant that he hadn't really given much thought towards his downtime.
A part of him wanted to simply relax and enjoy this momentary peace while it lasted. But there was another part of him that screamed for action, it begged him to find some purpose. Back home he owned a modest villa and would sometimes tend to the gardens. It was nothing more than a mere hobby, a way to pass the time or relieve stress. Gaius let out a wry chuckle, imagining himself as one of the worst farmers in Equestria. He was meant to wield a blade, not a plowshare.
His musings were tragically cut short when a certain purple alicorn materialized in the room. Gaius was no expert when it came to beautification, but even he noticed how frazzled the princess's mane was compared to when he met her earlier. Her severely bloodshot eyes darted around the room until she spotted Gaius.
"Oh no this is bad! What am I going to do?"
"Excuse me your highness, but what seems to be the problem?"
Twilight blushed. "Mr. Septimus, I'm sorry...I was just thinking out loud."
"Alright, but that still doesn't answer my question."
"I guess it's not really YOUR problem so much as it is mine. But it does concern you. News of your little bout with that griffon mercenary has reached Princess Celestia's ears. Don't you realize what that means!?"
Gaius cocked his eyebrow. "Umm...I don't quite follow."
"Urrgghhhh! I really wanted to keep your presence here a secret, at least until we could set up a proper welcoming ceremony. AJ told a few of the staff members at the hospital what happened to Apple Bloom and by now practically all of Equestria knows what you did!"
"I fail to see why that's..."
Twilight pressed her muzzle into his face. "IT'S A REALLY BIG DEAL! You are an alien species that we've never encountered before. That's the kind of thing that ponies tend to freak out over. I was supposed to be able to handle this situation on my own but...it just got out of hoof before I could do anything. Princess Celestia's going to be furious with me for keeping your presence a secret..."
Twilight's ears perked up when she heard a knock at the door. The knock was loud enough to gain Rarity's attention as she trotted down the stairs. She scrunched her muzzle in confusion as she saw Twilight cowering behind the couch where Gaius was sitting. The fashionista also noticed how frayed the alicorn's mane was and knew that it was never a good omen.
She would have some choice words with Twilight later, oh yes. But for now she put on her best smile and answered the door. Outside stood Princess Celestia herself, flanked by two pegasus guards. Rarity, despite her familiarity with the princess, hastily dipped her head in respect.
"P-princess Celestia, what a pleasant surprise! Please do come in."
Celestia trotted over to the couch and sat next to Gaius, as Rarity hurried into the kitchen to fetch another cup of tea. She smiled at the human and politely cleared her throat, noticing how dumbfounded he looked. A slightly frazzled Rarity reappeared a few moments later with a whole tray of cookies and a cup of tea.
"I'm terribly sorry if I startled you with my sudden arrival Rarity, but there are a few important matters I must discuss with Princess Twilight."
"You're always welcome to my boutique your highness! I don't mean to be rude but Lyra is still waiting upstairs, so umm...ta ta for now."
Celestia gave Twilight a stern look. "Twilight, I know that you want to take your new duties as princess seriously but there is no shame in coming to either Luna or I for assistance. This is especially important, considering that we're dealing with an alien species."
"Princess I thought I could..."
"It's fine Twilight. I've already forgiven you. Let this serve as a lesson to you, should anything like this occur in the future. Now that that's settled, I'd like to speak with the human."
Gaius rubbed his neck. "Excuse me, but exactly how many rulers does this nation have?"
"Technically there are three if you count Twilight. My sister, Luna, controls the moon and is in charge of the night court. I control the sun and am in charge of the day court. As for Twilight...she was only recently coronated, so she has yet to assume any major responsibilities."
"Hah! Such an arrangement would never work in Rome."
"I'm afraid I don't follow Mr...?"
"Call me Gaius, your majesty. What I'm saying is that my people are driven by an unquenchable lust for power. Some of them would find the idea of sharing a throne intolerable...offensive even! Rival houses would take up arms against each other until only one stands above the rest. Violence and conquest has always been our way and I doubt that's ever going to change."
Celestia nodded grimly. "Sadly, I know where you're coming from Mr. Gaius. Our nation is peaceful now but it was not always that way. So many ponies forget just how much blood and turmoil Equestria was built on. But enough about the past, I'm here on behalf of our future. Should you be interested, I have a proposition that might suit your skillset."
"Oh? And what exactly have you heard about my supposed skills?"
"I'm referring to your prowess in combat, Mr. Gaius. Admittedly, I have not seen your skills firsthoof but I have heard various accounts from several of my subjects. I am simply offering you a chance to use those skills. You will be compensated for your efforts, of course."
"Hmm...well I am in need of coin. I'd also like to purchase my own home at some point as well. What exactly do you have in mind, your majesty?"
"You will serve as Twilight's personal guard, following her wherever she goes and protecting her from harm."
"Ah so you intend to make a sell-sword of me?"
Celestia smiled. "You certainly don't miss a beat do you? Yes, that is indeed the case. I could not possibly ask you to join the guard, for that would require an oath of loyalty. However, that does not mean that you are free to do whatever you want. Any major decisions you make must be approved by either my sister or I. Please give yourself some time to think this over for it is not a decision to be taken lightly."
Gaius finally finished his tea and set the cup down on the floor. It was all strangely fitting in some cosmic sense. Not but an hour ago was he musing over his potential employment and now he was being offered a chance to use his skills as a soldier. Everything fit too well for it to be coincidence...but the gods worked in mysterious ways, even in this strange land.
He took a deep breath and looked over at Twilight, expecting her to give him some kind of signal. Instead, she only returned his stare with a look that was equal parts uncertainty and embarrassment. There wasn't any uncertainty in his heart, not after he saved those little fillies from harm. He would continue to protect anyone who deserved it. Whether they had fur or not was irrelevant. Gaius stood up and formed his hand into a fist. He knelt in front of Celestia and pounded his fist against his shoulder.
"I offer you my blade."
Celestia's magic enveloped Gaius's entire body, lifting him a few inches above the ground. A brilliant yellow burst of light flooded the room, causing Twilight to shield her eyes. Once the light started to dim, Gaius appeared once again but was now sporting an entirely new set of armor. Unlike his previous set it was segmented plate armor, not unlike the style the royal guards wore.
The armor itself was a dull silvery grey color. It included a helmet similar to the one he wore in battle but without any decorations. The whole set fit him like a glove and protected a lot more of his body than any Roman armor ever had. It left him wondering how the princess knew his exact measurements.
Celestia placed her hoof on his shoulder. "Consider this your down payment. You will receive a standardized amount of bits later, when your first task has been completed."
"I truly am grateful but I must ask: Why is it that you trust me so much? We've only just met."
"Because you've already proven that you're willing put your life on the line to protect the lives my precious ponies. That, Gaius Septimus, goes a long way in earning my trust."
"Thank you, your highness."
"You're quite welcome. Before I send you off on your first assignment, there are a few things about your new armor I have to explain. The armor you wear is special; it is made from a very rare metal called orichalcum. This metal is not only several times stronger than steel, but is also resistant to magic."
"I have but one request. Is it possible for you to place a crest upon this armor?"
"Yes, that shouldn't be too difficult. What type of crest do you desire?"
"An eagle. It is a very important symbol to my people."
With a quick flash of magic, Celestia emblazoned a flying eagle onto Gaius's breastplate. It reminded him more of a griffon, rather than the true imperial eagle but it would suffice. He nodded to Celestia in thanks.
"Your first assignment will be to accompany Princess Twilight to the Crystal Empire. Some of the archeologists up there have unearthed a series of ancient catacombs underneath the capital. I feel that Twilight is more than qualified to act as both a liaison and scholar for the excavation. I don't expect too much trouble, but one can never be too careful."
Twilight squealed in delight. "Oooh this going to be so exciting!"
Luxury Train Car, en route to the Crystal Empire
Gaius sat in his seat, hands clenched tightly around the edges as he looked around the car nervously. Twilight sat next to him, brushing her wing against his arm in an attempt to calm him down. To call the human's first experience riding train ride a disaster was like describing a tsunami as an oversized wave. In her excitement to visit the Crystal Empire, Twilight completely forgot that Gaius wasn't used to some of Equestria's technological advancements.
They were already an hour into the journey and he was still nervous. Twilight had very nearly needed to knock him out with a spell just so he would get on the train. Back at the station in Ponyville he kept screaming and hollering that there was some smoking metal beast bent on devouring their flesh.
"Gaius, I'm really sorry about earlier. I should have explained what a train was. Sometimes I get a bit overexcited with anything that has to do with history or science and I tend to forget the rest of the world exists. Are...you feeling a little better now?"
"Somewhat, I suppose. I still don't trust this smoking monstrosity. That whistle, as you called it, sounded like the unholy screams of a demon from Tartarus. But I appreciate your concern, milady."
Twilight blushed. "O-oh it's no problem. But umm...you can just call me Twilight. I'm not really used to all of these fancy titles."
"I'm afraid I can't do that. You are a princess and I am your guardian. It is below my station to refer to you in such a familiar fashion. At some point you will need to become accustomed to such titles, so consider this practice."
"I guess so. But...can you at least call me Twilight in private?"
"If that is what you desire, I shall oblige. However, in public we must follow proper etiquette. The people of Equestria are your subjects and they need to respect your authority. Letting them or myself call you by your given name, undermines that authority. Half of holding power is retaining the image of power. Do you understand?"
"Intellectually, I knew that all this royal etiquette stuff came with the crown but I guess it's just taken this long for the reality of it to sink in. I've lived my whole life as a normal pony...well almost normal if you don't count that fact that I'm an element bearer and Princess Celestia's personal student. It's going to take a while for me to feel comfortable with all of this."
Gaius grinned. "Not to worry Twilight, humility has its own merits. That type of attitude will make you popular with the common pony-folk. I'm confident that you'll grow into your role, even if it takes some time."
"How do you know so much about all of this?"
"It comes from living in the most powerful empire in the world. You tend to pick up a few things."
"Speaking of your world, we never did continue that conversation about slavery."
"We didn't and we never will. But I have an interesting story that might spark your interest. Luckily for you, it has to do with ponies!"
Twilight's eyes twinkled. "Go on..."
"First of all, they don't talk like you do and they aren't nearly so colorful. In fact, I owned a mare named Fausta. She had the most beautiful, silky brown coat. I could ride her for days and she wouldn't even complain a bit. Of course, that's because I bought a really nice Spanish saddle. By Neptune, I really do miss her..."
Gaius noticed that Twilight had gone silent. He glanced at the alicorn, only to find that she was blushing furiously. With a gentle nudge to the shoulder he tried to get to respond, but was met with a hoof to face instead. Luckily her blow glanced off of his helmet and protected him from any serious injury. Once Gaius regained his composure, he stared at her in confusion.
"Why in the seven hells did you do that for?"
"You deserved it, that's why! I can't believe you used that poor mare as a...s-sex slave!"
"What are you talking about? I never fucked her."
Twilight crossed her hooves. "How can say such a blatant lie? You just told me how pretty she was and how you 'rode her for days' and with a saddle no less!"
"OH! You thought I meant...hahaha! No, I didn't mean that I mounted her. Horses in my world are considered traveling companions; they help us get from place to place faster than on foot."
"Well, I guess I'm somewhat relieved to hear that. You have to understand that saddles are ehem...considered intimate wear in Equestria. So I assumed you were using Fausta as a sex slave. But I'm still not too happy that you use horses as a mode of transport."
"Look on the bright side your highness. Now that I'm guarding you, we'll have plenty more opportunities to have these awkward cultural clashes!"
Twilight merely face hoofed. This was going to be a long train ride. |
SPQR | Adventus | Chapter 11
Lyra's Apartment, Ponyville
Chrysalis stepped out the shower, reverting back to her changeling form. It was an interesting experience bathing as a human. She was hesitant to admit it but it was quite a bit more pleasurable than in her natural form. While it was true that changelings had a sense of touch throughout their chitin, it was dull, bearing towards non-existent. The feeling of hot water cascading against bare skin was just so much more...intense.
Despite longing for an extended showering session, she levitated a towel around her body and quickly dried off. Chrysalis may have been a queen but she was a practical mare at heart. Thus, she refused to give into her petty desire, electing instead to get on with her day.
Due to the mind meld she shared with Gaius, she always had an idea of his whereabouts. It wasn't extremely precise or invasive, just more like a general idea of where he was and what his emotional state was at the moment. With a slight huff of annoyance, she realized that he was on his way north...almost as far as the Crystal Empire. If this human was going to have a relationship with her, then he was going to have to understand a few things.
It didn't bother her that Gaius wanted to make a living. His desire to support himself and (possibly her) build a home was not at all uncommon. She could live with that. What bothered her was his abrupt departure from the apartment, without so much as uttering a word to where he was going. Did he think that she couldn't handle herself just because she was female? What a preposterous notion! She nearly conquered the capital of Equestia and bested Princess Celestia in single combat. Oh yes, she certainly could handle herself.
The former queen tossed her used towel into a hamper and trotted out to the living room. Her horn lit up with its signature emerald hue as she scanned the room for any traces of magic or left over emotion. Much to her disgust she noted two very familiar magical residues. One belonged to Princess Celestia and the other was from her pet bookworm.
What business could Gaius possibly have with those two? A sickening thought crept into the back of her mind. Does he...lust for Twilight Sparkle? No, it can't possibly be that! He even admitted that he has no attraction to ponies. Besides, it's best not to jump to conclusions...but he'll still have some explaining to do.
Chrysalis's thoughts were momentarily interrupted when she sensed another presence. It was something she hadn't felt in quite some time. It was the aura of another changeling. From what she could tell, it was far more intelligent than the average drone, suggesting that it was likely a high ranking scout of some kind. Such a thing was odd, since she wasn't aware of any other queens or hives in the immediate area. Erring on the side of caution, she resumed her filly disguise and pretended to go for a little stroll.
Chrysalis carefully observed her surroundings as she trotted down the street, trying to determine if anything or anyone was out of place. Most of the ponies she passed by were ones that she was at least vaguely familiar with and none seemed to be doing anything out of the ordinary. She bit her lip in frustration. Whoever this scout was, he was damn good at disguising himself. She knew he was there somewhere but couldn't exactly pinpoint his aura's exact location. Just as she was about to panic, she noticed the leaves of a nearby tree rustle.
In the tree was a sizable bird, sitting on one of the higher branches. Now, a bird in of itself was not unusual, Equestria hosted many species. What did catch Chrysalis's attention was the type of bird that chose to perch in this particular tree. It was a large scruffy feathered raven. Such a bird was not native to this part of Equestria and they certainly didn't migrate.
Feeling confident that she found her stalker, Chrysalis galloped towards Sugarcube corner where there were no trees. If this bird was just an animal, it would stay in the tree. If it landed on top of the building, it was probably a changeling.
Sure enough the raven followed her and landed on top of the roof of Sugarcube Corner. Chrysalis was about to fire a bolt of magic at the offending avian, until Pinkie decided to burst out of the door with a tray of brownies. The entrance of the pink party planer was so sudden that Chrysalis fell on her rump, instantly dissipating her spell. A look of concern spread across Pinkie's muzzle as she offered a hoof to help Chrysalis up.
"I'm sorry; I didn't realize there was anypony near the door. Oooh but I know what will make you feel better! How about a nice, warm Maple Brown Brownie? I just took 'em out of the oven."
"It's alright, I'm sure this was all just an accident. Look I'm rather busy right now and..."
Pinkie stuffed a brownie into Chrissy's mouth. "They're good aren't they? But ummm...just remember to chew or you'll end up choking. Trust me, I've choked on baked goods more times than I can count."
"Mmmm yuuu dern't seeyyy."
"Yeepers, I sure do say!"
Once she swallowed the admittedly delicious brownie, Chrysalis levitated Pinkie into a nearby bush and stuck a hoof to the mare's lips to get her to be quiet. Rather than get upset, Pinkie's eyes seemed to sparkle with foal-like glee.
"Are we playing hide and seek? I LOVE HIDE AND SEEK!"
"Sshhh! Shut up or the raven on the roof will notice us."
"Oh. So we aren't playing hide and seek?"
"No, now be quiet."
"Ah ha! I get it. We're...what does Twilight call it again? Oh yeah! We're ornithologists!"
Chrysalis groaned in frustration. This mare's ability to annoy her truly knew no bounds. With a quick jab of her hoof, the changeling struck Pinkie in the neck, rendering her unconscious. Now that the pink menace was finally silenced, she continued her observation of the raven. The bird was still sitting on top of the roof but was darting its head back and forth, searching for something. After a few moments the raven took off towards the Everfree, while Chrysalis prepared a teleportation spell.
She rematerialized near a particularly dense section of thorny underbrush, which caused her to wince in pain as the barbs tugged against her fur. Despite her unpleasant circumstances, she caught sight of the raven once more. Her suspicion was confirmed when the raven became engulfed in emerald flames, revealing a lithely built scout.
Before the changeling could react, she hopped out of the underbrush and fired an energy bolt straight at its barrel. The force of the impact sent it tumbling into to tree, stunning it momentarily. Not wanting to take any chances, Chrysalis seized a few feet of vine growing off of a nearby tree and bound the scout with it.
The scout groaned in pain, feeling like his head had been hit by a boulder. He tried to move but found that his entire carapace was wrapped in a bundle of tree-vines, preventing him from doing anything more than wiggle. His blood ran cold when he felt a hoof stroke his cheek. When he turned around, Chrysalis herself was staring into his eyes. The former queen smiled sweetly before levitating a sharpened stick towards his soft underbelly.
"Well, well it seems that the predator has now become the prey. Do you care to explain why you were following me?"
"Do your worst hiveless one!"
Chrysalis bucked him in the underbelly. "Watch your tongue worm! Why were you following me?"
"You may have lost your hive, but you are still a threat. That is why my master commanded me to observe you. It...is possible that you could interfere with his plans!"
"I have no desire to conquer anymore. In fact, I don't even know who your master is or why I should even care what he's doing."
Thorax let out a raspy chuckle. "Y-you carry the royal blood. As the empress's descendant, you have inherited some of her power. There is still a chance that you will pose a threat to her return!"
"What utter nonsense! Give me one reason why I shouldn't fry your sorry carcass on the spot."
"You truly don't know. Ha ha!"
Chrysalis struck him across the cheek. "TELL ME WHAT'S GOING ON!"
"My master funded an expedition to the Crystal Empire to uncover an artifact that will aid in the empress's return to this world. I believe he even invited one of the Equestrian princesses as well and...wait your human lover is with her. Yes...there's no mistaking it. I can sense his presence."
"How do you even know all of this?"
"Why that's simple. I have a psychic link with my master. In fact, I believe he is meeting with them right now. And they have no idea who they are truly dealing with..."
Chrysalis began to get increasingly nervous. Whoever this mysterious master was, there was no way to tell how dangerous he was. Her gut instinct told her that this whole excavation was one massive trap. Both the bookworm and Gaius could be in serious danger. Ignoring her captive, Chrysalis transformed into a snowy owl and flew north as fast as her wings could carry her.
En route to the Excavation Site, Five miles from the Imperial City
Gaius and Twilight were escorted via carriage from the Imperial City to the excavation site. While it was only an hour long ride, they were accompanied by the Crystal Empire's newest captain of the guard, Flash Sentry. Originally the first captain had been Shining Armor, but once he assumed the title of Prince Consort, the duty had to be taken up by a member of the imperial army.
The plucky young captain gawked at the Centurion, even though he had been informed that Princess Twilight's guard was special. Gaius was used to such stares by this point and took it in stride, opting to give the captain a friendly grin in return. Realizing his mistake, Flash blushed and offered his hoof.
"I'm sorry Mr. Septimus. I didn't mean to stare. You're just so...different from anything I've ever seen! I hope you aren't offended..."
Gaius shook his hoof. "No need to worry captain. I was just as shocked when I found out that little colorful ponies could talk."
Twilight, sitting next to Gaius, had a strange expression on her face. It was somewhere in between nervous and excited. The roman was slightly confused because in the short time he had known the alicorn; she struck him as an avid conversationalist. It was strange to him that she hadn't said a single word, other than a muttered greeting since they boarded the carriage.
Her only activity consisted of staring out the window and occasionally staring at the captain. When he would look back at her, she would blush slightly and stare at her hooves or back out the window. After a few seconds of pondering, Gaius finally realized what was going on. The bookish little princess displayed the tell-tale signs of a blushing maiden smitten with a potential suitor. After finishing a bit more small talk with the captain, a wicked grin formed upon his lips.
As soon as the carriage stopped, Gaius scooped Twilight into his arms and began to carry her. The alicorn squeaked in surprise and immediately began to fidget in his grasp. Even after she began cursing and pounding her hooves against his chest, Gaius just smirked and held her even tighter. After a few moments she began to calm down but her entire face was now flushed with embarrassment. When they reached the encampment, he gingerly set her down and kissed one of her hooves.
"We have reached our destination your highness."
Twilight huffed. "Gaius, what was all that for?!"
"I just wanted to make sure that you didn't strain yourself, milady."
"I-I'm fine with walking, you don't have to carry me. In fact, I order you not to carry me anymore."
Gaius chuckled. "Oh? Sorry to disappoint you princess, but I'm only obligated to protect you."
"Horsefeathers! I don't really like throwing my title around b-but you're supposed to do what I say. As a princess..."
"You are a princess and if I were an Equestrian, I would obey your orders. But...I'm not an Equestrian and you're not my princess."
"Uggghhh! You're just so...incorrigible sometimes!"
As Twilight stomped off towards one of the tents, Gaius walked over to Flash and patted him on the back. He then crouched onto one knee and whispered into the captain's ear.
"I'm willing to bet that she wouldn't have been nearly so upset if you had been the one to carry her instead."
Flash's ears perked up. "W-what are you t-talking about?"
"Our intrepid princess is smitten with a certain captain of the imperial guard."
"Umm...you mean me?"
"Of course I mean you! Don't tell me you didn't notice her catching a few glimpses of your fine form."
Flash twiddled his hooves. "Ermm...well I did notice but I wasn't one hundred percent sure. And to be completely fair, I think she's gorgeous but...is it appropriate to like a-a princess?"
"Hmm. I don't really know to be honest. It depends on if your culture places any importance on political marriage. I suppose if you couldn't legally marry her, you could just be her male concubine."
"There hasn't been a political marriage in Equestria for a long time...at least that I know of. But it's a bit too soon to be talking about marriage, when I...uhhm...haven't even asked her out yet."
"Well then, it seems you now have a goal. Work your charm, little stud!"
Gaius and Captain Flash walked over to the tent Twilight currently occupied. She was standing in front of a small metal table, pouring over what appeared to be a map of some kind. Gaius was content just to stand in the doorway while he gently nudged Flash in the flank with his boot. The poor stallion was so flustered that he ended up falling muzzle first onto the floor...which happened to be right in front of a certain purple princess.
Twilight, now distracted by the loud thump, looked up to see Flash sprawled on the floor. The look of confusion in her eyes immediately turned to concern, when she noticed a small rivulet of blood drip from his nose. Luckily, she brought a small satchel full of books and other supplies, just in case the site lacked anything she might need.
After fishing around in the bag for a few seconds, she levitated a lavender colored handkerchief over to Flash's muzzle and wiped it clean. The stallion cleared his throat and gave Twilight an awkward bow.
"Thanks you highness. Some captain I am huh? Tripping in front a princess and letting her clean me up...talk about embarrassing."
Twilight blushed. "Oh well, accidents happen to the best of us! And you're welcome by the way."
"I-I'll just let you get back to your maps. So if you'll excuse me..."
"WAIT! I mean...hold on a second. Gaius and I are going to be having lunch two hours from now and I was wondering if maybe, you'd like to join us?"
Flash's ears perked up. "Really? I'd love to! You guys probably get way better food than they serve in the mess tent. So...I guess I'll see you there?"
"Good, I...errr...we look forward to seeing you there!"
Gaius silently watched as Flash exited the tent towards a group of diggers, feeling yet another grin spread across his lips. Twilight couldn't help but notice this, so she took it upon herself to poke the human's chest with her hoof.
"I can't believe it! You did that on purpose!"
"I'm afraid I have no idea what you're talking about."
Twilight crossed her forehooves. "Don't play dumb with me. You knew that I thought he was cute, so you set all of that up to get me to talk to him!"
"It's nice to see you finally admit your honest feelings, milady."
"I...well ok, maybe I didn't make the best first impression with Flash."
Gaius patted her mane. "Perhaps, and that is precisely the reason why I decided to lighten the mood by teasing you. I understand that not everyone is fond of socializing. Mars knows there were days when I would have given my left arm to get away from everyone. But I realized that you weren't going to get anywhere with that stallion by giving him the silent treatment."
"I wasn't trying to give him the silent treatment, I was just really nervous! B-besides, he should've noticed that I was checking him out."
"Let me offer you a nugget of wisdom concerning the male psyche. Men take serious interest in a woman when she makes her intentions plain. You can make the most intricate and subtle gestures professing your affections but if you don't make it clear, he will hesitate or even ignore you."
Twilight sighed. "But I can't just trot up and kiss him on the lips. He'd think I was some kind of...l-loose mare!"
"I'm not suggesting that. There will come a time when action is needed, but words are important as well. You're an intelligent mare, so use them."
Twilight held up her hoof to respond but was interrupted when one of the last ponies she expected to see, made his entrance into the tent. Before them stood Prince Blueblood, clad in a tan vest lined with a myriad of pockets. His typically coiffured mane was pulled back into a simple ponytail, fastened by a brass ring. He offered a slight bow to Twilight.
"Excuse me your highness; I do hope I'm not interrupting anything."
"Nothing we can't talk about later. I don't mean to be rude but why in Celestia's name are you even here Prince Blueblood?"
Blueblood chuckled. "Oh dear, it seems that a few details were left out of your briefing. To put it bluntly, your highness, I am the one who funded this little excavation."
"Ok, I'll admit that I'm grateful that you decided to show some interest in history but what's in it for you?"
"You wound me princess! Believing that I would have an ulterior motive. Why, I'm just a noble stallion who wants to share the joy of discovery with the fine citizens of the Crystal Empire and Equestria at large."
Twilight rolled her eyes. "Uh huh."
"Oh fine, it seems that you don't share my taste for melodramatic humor. If you must know, these ruins might contain artifacts that date back to pre-Sombrian times. There could be an entire treasure trove of lost, ancient knowledge lost to pony-kind for ages. Not to mention all the prestige that will come to the one who discovered it."
"Hmm...it's true that very little information has survived from those times. Maybe I could even publish my own findings, assuming that there's any validity to your claim. Gaius and I will gladly assist you, so long as you provide a guide of some kind."
"Not to worry your highness, I shall personally escort you through the ruins myself." |
SPQR | Timor(I) | Chapter 12
Excavation Site, Crystal Empire
Twilight and Gaius followed Blueblood as he led them to the main area of the excavation site. Before them was the entrance to what appeared to be an ordinary mineshaft. To the untrained eye, such a discovery would have seemed utterly unremarkable. Upon closer inspection, one crucial detail stood out about the mine's entrance. The timbers used to create the entrance were petrified, indicating that the site was positively ancient. Twilight, ever the scholar, couldn't resist rubbing her hoof against the ancient lumber.
"Remarkable. The fact that these trees are petrified indicates that this site could possibly be thousands of years old..."
Blueblood chuckled. "Come along Princess, the really interesting stuff is inside."
Gaius had no idea what in the seven hells "petrification" was, nor did he particularly care. However, he did find it a bit odd that any creature would go out of their way to caress a piece of timber. He shrugged his shoulders, deciding that such strange behavior from the princess was merely a quirk of her personality he'd have to get used to.
As they ventured deeper into the mine, they witnessed fewer and fewer workers to the point where the three of them were completely on their own. Twilight, who was already feeling nervous due to a slight case of claustrophobia, was now on the brink of a full-blown panic attack. There should've been at least a few workers down here and clearly, not a single one was present. She was about to question Blueblood about it, when she felt a strange sensation wash over her.
Immediately she felt the air become significantly colder, sending a shiver down her spine. But it wasn't so much the cold that bothered her. What truly made the hair on her mane stand on end was the oppressive feeling in the air. It was almost as if it had malicious intent behind it, daring her to continue, lest she suffer its wrath.
The rational part of her mind scolded her for fearing something as intangible as a bad feeling. After a few moments of mental tug of war, the more primitive parts of her brain emerged victorious when she decided to completely ignore rationality and huddle against Gaius's leg.
The centurion was slightly surprised when he felt the trembling alicorn brush up against his leg, but knew better than to protest. It was his job to keep her safe, even if that meant lending her emotional rather than physical support. His thoughts immediately drifted back to Fausta when she had been spooked by a wolf. Whenever she was frightened or needed to calm down, he would whisper to her in a hushed tone and gently stroke her mane. Even though it might be a bit awkward, he decided to do the same with Twilight.
"It's alright princess, I'm here."
Twilight whimpered. "S-sorry I don't normally freak out in situations like this but...something is horribly wrong with this place."
"Hmm, there is something off about this place. It feels as if we're being...watched."
Blueblood cleared his throat. "Ah, so both of you feel it too? I'm afraid that's why there isn't anypony else down here. They all started freaking out, claiming that they started hearing voices or that somepony was staring at them the whole time. But I'm afraid it's only going to get worse."
Twilight's ears flattened. "How could it p-possibly be any worse than this?!"
Rather than verbally reply, the Canterlotian noble gestured his hoof towards a large, circular stone slab at the end of the mineshaft. Both Gaius and Twilight gaped in awe, reveling in just how massive the door truly was. It encompassed the entirety of the mineshaft from floor to ceiling, which dwarfed the gates to the palace in Canterlot.
The entire door was comprised of black granite, a very expensive but extremely durable stone that could last for ages without eroding. But what really took Twilight's breath away was the myriad of runes etched into the door, suggesting that it was magically sealed in place. One thing was for certain: whoever created this didn't want anything getting in or out of the area beyond that door.
"Here is the main attraction my dear friends. This is the door which neither I nor my workers could open. As you may well have guessed, it is positively covered in runes, preventing anypony but the most powerful spell caster to unseal it. And that...is where you come in Princess Sparkle."
"What do expect me to do about it? I don't even recognize what these runes even mean. If I'm even off one hair from the magic frequency of that door, it could collapse the entire mineshaft."
Blueblood waved his hoof. "Not to worry, I'll simply summon a barrier to protect us should the worst come to pass. Please, all I ask is that you at least try. I mean, aren't you the least bit curious as to what's on the other side? I know I am."
"Alright, I'll try. But you'd better be ready with that spell because I'd never forgive myself if either of you got hurt or killed."
Twilight braced herself as she concentrated a fair amount of magic in her horn. Within seconds her lavender aura enveloped the door as she desperately tried to move it. Try as she might, the door didn't even so much as budge. She grunted in frustration and decided to apply as much power as she could, short of obliterating the door. As magic continued to pour out of her horn, the alicorn's body began to levitate while her eyes glowed white.
The whole entire room became filled with lavender light as a massive beam of magic surged through her horn, unsealing the slab with a thunderous roar. One the door opened, a blast of fetid air rushed out, a result of having been trapped in the room for countless centuries. Meanwhile, Twilight stopped levitating and collapsed onto the floor, utterly exhausted from expending so much magical energy. Gaius immediately rushed over to the fallen princess, checking to see if she was ok.
"Princess, are you feeling well? Do you have the strength to walk?"
Twilight weakly shook her head. "I'm...so tired. Sorry Gaius, but I barely have the strength to talk...let alone walk. You'll probably have to carry me."
Without the slightest hesitation, Gaius gingerly hoisted her onto his back and carried her piggy-back style, to avoid injuring her wings. Even though she knew it was necessary, Twilight still blushed furiously. It embarrassed her because she felt like a helpless little filly. While her human protector couldn't see her blush in the dim lighting of the mine, he did notice how warm her muzzle felt against his neck.
"Don't worry milady, I won't mention this to anyone."
"Oh...umm good. I already feel bad enough for making you..."
"Stop speaking so you can conserve your strength. And before you protest any further, know that I don't mind doing this for you. I gave Princess Celestia my word that I would protect you and that's precisely what I aim to do."
Twilight didn't say anything in response; instead she chose to relax her head against Gaius's shoulder. With his new passenger in tow, he slowly made his way into the chamber and nearly dropped Twilight from the utter shock of what was contained within. The entire floor was littered with the skeletons of hundreds of earthponies, along with what appeared to be the carapaces of dead changelings.
Many of the ancient corpses were still clad in rusted armor, clutching equally brittle weapons. It all suddenly made sense to him as to why the air in this place felt so oppressive. A great battle had taken place here and the agony of those who perished still lingered. He heard Twilight gasp and felt her tense up as they continued further into the chamber. Strangely enough, Blueblood didn't seem bothered by any of this at all. In fact, it was almost as if he was expecting to find all of this carnage.
Gaius was careful not to step on any of the remains or injure himself on any of the degraded weaponry. He had heard tales of people who had injured themselves on rusted blades and ended up feverish for days. It was simply not a risk he was willing to take. As they continued towards the center of the chamber, Gaius noticed something strange.
While the rest of the chamber was littered with remains, the center was completely devoid of them, save for two sets of remains. One was a heavily armored unicorn, which was unusual, considering that the rest of the skeletons were earthponies. Even more bizarre was the hulking changeling carapace underneath it. It was wildly different from the standard drone, sporting two curved horns, a segmented tail with a barb on the end, and a full set of blade-like teeth.
Twilight gasped. "T-that's impossible! Changelings can't grow to the size of fully matured dragons. Whatever that monstrous changeling was, I'm glad it isn't alive anymore."
Gaius merely nodded in agreement. While he would admit that taking down such a large creature would have been difficult, the unicorn on top of it had clearly done so. As to how he (Gaius assumed it was a male unicorn) slew the massive changeling was fairly obvious. The hilt of a sword was sticking out from a section of the beast's chest plate. Without any shred of decency or common sense, Blueblood galloped over to the remains of the giant changeling carapace and broke off a chunk of its horn.
"After all this time, I've finally found the remains of Empress Arachnia! Now, I have the most important piece needed to summon her back to this realm."
Blueblood barely took one step away from the remains, when the entire room became bathed in eerie green light. Hundreds of changeling carapaces began forming together, creating an army of the undead willing to punish the fool who dared desecrate their empress's sacred remains. The fleshless horde produced a high pitched screeching noise as their chitinous hooves scrapped across the stone floor.
Gaius carefully placed Twilight on the floor, simply because her weight would encumber him if he needed to fight. To her credit, the princess tried to stand up and summon a bolt of magic but instead she slumped to the ground clutching her temples. She was just too exhausted to fight right now. Gaius unsheathed his gladius and took a defensive stance in front of her as the changelings made their advance.
Blueblood, in a state of pure panic, dropped the chunk of horn in a pathetic attempt to appease his undead assailants. As one might expect, it did absolutely nothing. While he was generally a very vain stallion, even he would admit that his magic skills weren't exactly the best in Equestria. But he had to at least try to fend off these horrible creatures because...well his life pretty much depended on it. He began to fire golden hued bolts of magic at a few of the changelings, which seemed to shatter their weakly bound bodies. Unfortunately, they just reformed and continued their advance.
Gaius was having an equally difficult time trying to destroy the abominations. One of them lunged at him and started gnawing on his arm. In response, he drove his blade into the creature's throat but it still continued to chew on him as if nothing had happened. He withdrew his blade and decided to switch tactics. The roman lifted his arm and charged headlong into a nearby wall, hoping to crush the creature against it. When he impacted against the wall, there was a satisfying crunch, breaking off a few chunks of the changeling's chitin. Feeling encouraged, he repeatedly smashed the creature's skull against the wall until it practically disintegrated, making the rest of its body follow suit. Although he had figured out how to destroy them, his feeling of accomplishment quickly evaporated when dozens more came charging at him.
As the changelings began to encircle him, Blueblood felt a familiar presence creep into the back of his skull. It reminded him that he was not entirely in control of either his mind or body and this was one of the worst possible times it could occur. He tried to resist but his master's will was just too strong. The stallion whimpered in pain as he curled into a ball on the floor.
"Please m-master, not now! I...have...the situation under control. J-just give...me time to escape."
"How utterly pathetic! I gave you the opportunity to take care of this little errand on your own, and yet again you fail me. To this day, I have yet to understand why my mother ever struck a contract with your family."
"B-but I retrieved a piece of the horn like you asked! How...could I have....p-possibly foreseen an army of the undead attacking me?!"
"Silence! Your whining means nothing to me. Due to your weakness, I must intervene directly."
Blueblood howled in pain as his entire body was consumed by crimson flames, similar to how a changeling would transform. A few seconds later, a human male replaced his equine form. He stood a foot taller than Gaius with olive tinted skin positively rippling with lean muscle. The man chose to wear hoplite style bronze armor, complimented by chains and studs and a flowing red cape with gold accents.
Behind his plumed helmet a pair of blood red eyes glowed, surveying the situation before him. The bronzed warrior grasped his spear, enveloping the tip in a crimson aura. With a thunderous echo, he slammed the blunt end against the floor, causing all of the surrounding changelings to become trapped in his aura. His eyes flashed and immediately afterwards the changelings were consumed in crimson flames.
Now that Gaius wasn't fighting for his life, he took notice of the hulking warrior across the room. He blinked several times, just to confirm that he was seeing another man. A strange mixture of emotions washed over him as he observed the warrior stride towards him. Surprise was at the forefront simply because he hadn't anticipated seeing another person ever again. But he was also somewhat wary, only because this man looked incredibly dangerous and intimidating. With his gladius still drawn, Gaius cleared his throat.
"Greetings stranger! I am Gaius Septimus, Centurion of Rome and guardian of Princess Sparkle. What business do you have here?"
The warrior slowly turned his head. "Greetings son of Rome. My business is none of your concern and you would be wise to stay out of my way."
"Please sir, I meant no offense. I am merely curious."
"As insignificant as you are, I will sate your curiosity. Only because it amuses me."
"Who are you?"
"I am Phobos, son of Arachnia."
Twilight scrunched her eyebrows. "Wait a minute. I heard Blueblood mention that name before and come to think of it, where is he?"
"The stallion is merely my vessel to this realm. My spirit has inhabited the first born son of every Blueblood for countless generations. It was part of the pact they made with my mother before she was vanquished in this very chamber."
"So...that giant changeling over there was your mother? B-but how is that even possible? There aren't any other humans in Equestria!"
Phobos chuckled. "Correct, little mare. I wasn't born in Equestria; I was born in the world of men."
"How can that be? She's clearly dead."
"Only her physical form. Thousands of years ago, she nearly conquered all of the lands in this world but a lone unicorn king vanquished her by splitting her spirit in two. This was the only way to ensure she couldn't return. One half was banished to the bowels of Tartarus, while the other was sent to the realm of men. Even though her spirit was weak, she managed to inhabit the body of a beautiful young maiden, who caught the eye of a great conqueror."
Gaius held up his hand. "Who was this conqueror?"
"Iskandar of Macedon. My mother claimed that she sensed great strength in him, so she felt he was worthy of her affection. For as level-minded and ambitious as my mother is, she very much enjoys pleasures of the flesh. And so, after a night of heated passion, I was conceived."
"That was ages ago! How are you still alive?"
"Fortunately, I am a human/changeling hybrid, which has granted me the boon of my mother's abilities. Let's just say that mortality has never been a concern of mine."
Twilight struggled to her hooves. "Wait...you're trying to resurrect your mother, aren't you? That's why Blueblood funded this entire excavation. He needed a piece of her original form as a bonding agent for the two halves of her spirit!"
"It seems my slave was correct when he claimed you were a smart mare. Rest assured, my mother will rise again and claim what is rightfully hers. Neither you, nor any other being in this realm can do anything to stop it."
"My friends and I will stop you! The elements are the most powerful..."
Phobos chuckled. "Do you truly believe that those little trinkets will stop me? The magic that courses through my body is so ancient it is beyond your comprehension. I AM FEAR ENCARNATE!! And fear is not something you can simply purify."
"I'm not afraid of you."
"Perhaps not, but you should be."
Phobos's eyes flashed once more as he encased Twilight's head in his signature crimson aura. Twilight screamed as she felt herself get dragged headfirst across the floor towards the powerful hybrid. Once she was close enough, he grabbed her by the neck, suspending her in front of his helmeted visage.
Twilight was so exhausted by this point that she only had the strength to croak out Gaius's name for help. In response, the centurion charged across the room and drove his gladius straight through the flesh of Phobos's bicep, causing him to drop Twilight. Luckily, he managed to catch her before she hit the floor. Rather than howl in pain or rage, the demigod slowly pulled out the blade and tossed it across the room. The deep cut in his bicep immediately began to heal as turned his attention to Gaius.
"Very brave but very foolish, Centurion. I'm afraid that ordinary weapons have little effect on me. Commendable effort though."
With his sword well out of reach, Gaius frantically searched for something to defend himself with. He eventually found an old spear. The thing was so old that he didn't trust the wood to hold, so he broke off the tip and fashioned a makeshift dagger. He grit his teeth and prepared for the worst.
[Phobos Concept Picture ]
> Timor(II)
Chapter 13
Inner Chamber of the Excavation Site, Crystal Empire
The tips of Gaius's knuckles turned white as he tightened his grip around the make-shift dagger he had fashioned just moments before. Admittedly, he wasn't quite sure if attacking this Phobos creature was such a good idea. The thing barely flinched when he drove his gladius straight into its bicep. Such a blow would have left a normal man howling in pain and severely debilitated.
And to make matters even worse, the creature seemed able to cast magic. Even with his limited understanding of the arcane, Gaius knew that such ability left him at a severe disadvantage because it gave the creature the means to strike him at a distance. He would have to fight the abomination in close quarters. It was his only chance.
Phobos was clearly taller than Gaius but not by an extreme margin. This gave the Roman an idea. While the demigod was armored, there were areas on his body that weren't covered. These areas were left bare to allow the solider a greater range of motion. This was particularly important for the wearer's joints. Gaius purposely shifted his stance, making it appear as if he was relaxing his guard.
Sensing the Centurion's moment of perceived weakness, Phobos lunged his spear straight at the Roman's leg, only to grunt in surprise as the weapon lodged itself into the ground instead. This was the opening Gaius was looking for. As the creature tried to dislodge his weapon, Gaius plunged the spear tip into the back of Phobos's exposed knee, causing him to collapse like a sack of bricks.
With Phobos momentarily distracted, Gaius desperately searched for his discarded blade. Luckily, he managed to find it close by since the demigod hadn't bothered to actually throw it. That is where the Roman's luck ran out. Despite having a spear tip jammed in his knee a mere fifteen seconds prior, Phobos was already barreling towards Gaius at full speed. The Centurion pivoted to the side and parried Phobos's spear strike with his sword. Phobos growled in frustration and struck Gaius in the face with the blunt end of his spear.
It was fortunate that Gaius's helmet included a nose guard; otherwise his nose would have been shattered to pieces. Still, the blow was more than powerful enough to disorient him. He stumbled backwards a few steps and felt a sharp pain vibrate through his skull. While he was distracted, Phobos used his armored forearm to deliver a savage blow to the side of Gaius's head. Needless to say, if Gaius wasn't lying on the ground before, he certainly was now.
Phobos chuckled. "Get up mortal. I'm not done with you yet. Actually, don't get up. Allow me to do it for you."
The demigod's eyes flashed as he extended his hand towards Gaius. As with any type of casting, magic required a conduit in order to form spells. Changelings, Unicorns and Alicorns all had horns for such a task. Phobos, however, did not. But he did possess fingers and they made an excellent substitute for a horn. For a brief moment, Gaius felt the familiar tingling sensation associated with a levitation spell but then it suddenly stopped. Phobos furrowed his brow in confusion and attempted his spell once more. When he failed to accomplish anything a second time, the demigod slammed his fist into the wall out of frustration.
"What sorcery is this?! Humans are incapable of casting magic and...ah of course. You don't have any magic, do you? It's the armor. Why didn't I notice it before? Very clever, but it's a trick that will only work once."
Gaius coughed. "Why makes you think that?"
"As I'm sure your pony master told you, orichalcum does indeed resist magic...direct magic that is. Sure, if I try to levitate you or blast you into oblivion, the armor will protect you. In order for my magic to even have the slightest effect on you, I'd have to channel an absurd amount of power. But...I'm not going to do that."
"Then you intend to fight me in single combat?"
"No. That would be tedious and time consuming. What I intend, dear Roman, is to smash your weak mortal body into nothing more than a bloody smear. And I'm going to do it with that lovely ceiling column over there. You see...my magic might not be able to affect you directly but you armor won't stop objects controlled by magic."
Phobos cackled with glee as he proceeded to rip an entire column of ancient stone right from its foundation. When it comes to levitation, the amount of magic required to lift anything is directly proportional to the weight, size and quantity of an object. The pillar Phobos was currently manipulating had to have weighed at least several tons. Such a task required so much magic and skill that only an expert sorcerer or an alicorn could possibly hope to achieve it.
Princess Twilight watched in horror as the hybrid monstrosity prepared to smash Gaius like an insect. She felt so utterly useless right now. The mare was so spent, both physically and magically that she barely had the strength to lift her own hooves, let alone cast a spell. Hot tears poured from her bloodshot eyes, out of both frustration and despair.
She knew that Gaius had volunteered to protect her, to put his life on the line for her well-being...but she didn't want to be responsible for his death. But...it was naïve of her to think that way, perhaps even foolish. She was a princess now and that meant that she had to accept the heavy burden of responsibly the title entailed, even if it included having others sacrifice their lives to spare hers.
Twilight screwed her eyes shut, unable to work up the courage or the stomach to witness her guardian being ground into a bloody pulp. When she heard the aged monolith of stone smash into the ground, she curled up into a ball and let out a ragged sob. Something was odd though. She didn't hear the screams of agony she was expecting.
The mare slowly opened her eyes to find that there was no bloody smear where Gaius had once been. In fact, the battle hardened Roman had managed to hop onto Phobos's back and was currently plunging his gladius underneath the hybrid's armpit. The enraged demigod howled in pain and with his uninjured arm, he grabbed Gaius by the leg and tossed him against the wall. Unsurprisingly, the poor man groaned in pain as he slowly rose to his feet. Armor only protected you from so much. Metal just wasn't very good at absorbing blunt-force trauma like cushioning was...go figure.
Phobos's eyes glowed. "I've had just about enough of you! It is time to end this little game."
The very air around Phobos's body began to distort wildly, due to the massive amount of magical energy he was building up. His glowing eyes, already intimidating in their own right, now looked like molten spheres of bloody metal as they focused their attention on Gaius. The Centurion was expecting to have his flesh melted like a candle, but gasped in surprise when he felt a strong hand grip his windpipe instead. He was being hoisted several inches off the ground by the neck which essentially forced him to stare into Phobos's eyes.
"My mother's people, the changelings, are creatures who thrive off of emotion. Love is the most potent and nourishing variety...but some have adapted themselves to feed upon other emotions. Anger, hatred, jealousy, sadness...there are just so many to choose from! But I thrive on fear. Oh yes, the most primal emotion of them all! I daresay it is the very emotion that drives living creatures to survive. The question is: Will you conquer your own fears...or will they consume you?"
Gaius felt himself oddly drawn to the demigod's gaze, as crimson tendrils of magic wormed their way into his eyes. He flinched, expecting the magic to tear out his eyes from their very sockets...but there wasn't any pain. He could still see. In a mere instant the situation changed, and the entire chamber became shrouded in darkness. Gaius looked down at his hands and found that he could still seem them. In fact, the strangest part of this whole situation was that he was now alone.
The entire room...no, the entire world around him began to change in a turbulent swirl of color and sound. Gone was the soundless, shapeless void of darkness. A beautiful Mediterranean beach in the middle of summer replaced it. He could feel the gentle breeze blowing through his hair, the gritty sand underneath his now bare feet. It was odd...he wasn't naked but he wasn't wearing his armor either. As of now, he only wore a simple red tunic, tied at the waist by a brown belt.
The rational part of his mind screamed that none of this could possibly be real and he needed to be on his guard. The less rational part, softly whispered to him saying: "Welcome home, relax and rest. You deserve it." As he traversed along the beach, he noticed an orange robed woman in the distance. She seemed to be staring forlornly at the sea for some reason. He chose to approach her carefully, out of fear that he might startle her. When he came within a few paces of the woman, Gaius couldn't help but let out a nervous cough. For whatever reason, she chose to discard her robe, giving Gaius an unobstructed view of her body in all of its natural glory.
She turned around and giggled, giving the Roman a come hither look as if she'd been expecting him the whole time. Gaius was too dumbfounded to respond verbally, so he simply stared at her. Taking his as a good sign, the woman walked up to him and wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Welcome home, husband. Allow me to...help you relax."
It took him a few seconds to realize it, but this woman was Florentia...his Florentia. The only difference was that she didn't look exactly the same as he'd last seen her. She was far younger...in fact; she was just about the age when they first met. This realization was made all the more apparent when she tightened her embrace. Even through his tunic he could feel her soft, shapely breasts pressing against his chest. It left him feeling a conflicting combination of vexation and intense arousal.
"Florentia? What are you doing here?"
The woman placed her finger on his lips. "Well, I felt like going for a little swim. Of course, we can always do that later. It wouldn't make any sense to get all sweaty after we bathe ourselves."
"I...suppose not. But you still didn't answer my question. How can you be here? For that matter, how can I be here? It doesn't make any sense!"
"What ails you, dear husband? You speak like a madman. Unless...yes, of course! Your stress is so great that you aren't thinking clearly. Come, join me, it is more important than ever that I help you relax."
Gaius let out a frustrated snort. "I'm not mad! I'm not supposed to be here, neither are you! The last I remember, I was in the central chamber, trying to defend Princess Twilight. Not here...in Arretium."
"Let us not worry ourselves over this supposed Princess Twilight. Worry about me, my love and think of how we may pleasure each other. Just...take off your tunic and lay with me."
"By the gods, I desire nothing more! But this isn't real. It can't be...b-because YOU'RE DEAD Florentia! Nothing will change that...not even my wildest imaginings."
"Are you certain?"
It was almost too much for Gaius to bear. Florentia looked so real! Down to the very last detail. He could even hear the lustful intent in her query and if that weren't enough he felt her hand gently stroking his hardening member, as it made its way underneath his tunic. With a heavy heart, he grabbed her by the shoulders and pushed his wife away.
"I'm sorry Florentia. I can't do this."
Florentia's eyes narrowed. "Am I so repulsive that you would refuse to bed me?"
"No, my wife would never ask me that. The real Florentia was beautiful enough to make Venus herself weep. And even if she hadn't been...I would have loved her still. You are merely a siren, a witch sent to tempt me. I will not give in!"
The instant he finished his sentence, the sea around them began to boil and the sky became the color of burning coals. Florentia's once beautiful doppelganger morphed as well. Her skin began to crack and blister as she burst into flames, creating a retched burning wraith that screamed for blood. Gaius stumbled onto the ground and backed away as fast as he could, desperate to flee the apparition. He felt a sharp pain blossom across his cheek as the creature's nails raked against his skin.
The fiery wraith growled. "I knew it! You have forsaken your own kind to bed one of those disgusting... insect horse creatures. Such a heinous crime must be punished with death...there can be no other way."
"Chrysalis isn't disgusting! She's just...different. I know that she cares for me but I don't--I'm not entirely sure that I can return her feelings for...me."
"Then is she a plaything to you? A mere toy when your manhood begs you to sate your lust? You know what she truly is underneath the illusion. Yet...you still pretend."
Gaius punched the sand. "I-I don't know! It isn't that simple. I do care for her, but not as much as she cares for me. I hate to admit it, but I still can't completely bring myself to appreciate her true form. Perhaps I should stop seeing her. It might be for the best before she gets hurt..."
Sensing his growing doubt, the wraith moved closer to him and began to lick his neck. It was a stark contrast from when she lashed out earlier and if Gaius hadn't been so despondent he would have recoiled in disgust. Once she had her fill, the creature traced a flame-tipped finger across his chest which caused a hideous burn to form. Gaius gasped as the pain caught up with his mind, finally breaking him out of his stupor. In that moment of pain-induced clarity, he kicked the apparition as hard as he could.
Gaius ran as fast as could in the opposite direction of the screaming apparition. Eventually, the searing pain of his chest injury forced him to stop after only a few minutes. It wasn't particularly deep...but it radiated waves of pain that made him feel like his heart was going to explode out of his chest at the slightest provocation. Despite the pain, he knew that he was terribly exposed at the moment and needed to find shelter in order to rest.
As luck would have it, he stumbled upon a craggy outcropping of rock that formed a shallow cave only a short distance from where he currently stood. Once inside the cave, Gaius immediately collapsed onto the floor, grasping his chest. Interlaced with the pain, countless questions buzzed inside his brain like a swarm of angry hornets. How did he get here? Why did his heart ache so intensely? Was Twilight still alive? Would he...ever see Chrysalis again?
The Roman began to laugh as the pain induced a state of delirium that no wine or drug could ever hope to match. He stopped laughing for a moment when he saw a blurry figure approach the mouth of the cave. Whatever it was, the thing wasn't very tall and it certainly didn't walk like a man.
When he squinted to get a better look at it, he was surprised to find that it was actually a unicorn. In fact, it was a rather garish looking unicorn at that. It looked quite similar to Lyra, except that it had a curved horn as opposed to a spiraled one. The unicorn was also oddly colored. Its coat was nearly translucent but had a slightly milky tone to it...similar to a crystal. While all of these features were certainly unusual, compared to what Gaius had seen, the creature's most striking attribute were its eyes. No pupils or irises, just orbs of golden light.
Gaius wheezed. "What...do...you...want?"
"It doesn't matter what I want. I only exist to serve."
"Serve...who?"
"I serve my master."
"Who is your...master?"
"My former master perished long ago; therefore I currently do not possess one."
"A-alright...so why are you here?"
The unicorn cocked its head. "I sensed that you were in grave danger, so I entered your mind to offer my assistance."
"My...mind?"
"Correct. We are currently inside of your subconscious. However, do not presume that we aren't in danger. I sense another being here; he is exerting his own magic to...influence the mindscape. If we do not eliminate this interloper, I fear that you may perish."
"So...this wound I have: Is it real?"
"Yes and no. In the physical world, you do not possess such a wound. But...your mind believes that you do, so your body experiences excruciating pain. Such levels of stress to the body are not healthy and can cause death...if left unrelieved."
Gaius rubbed his temples. "Errm...Right. But I'm still confused. The wraith attacked me and caused this injury, but since you claim this is all in my mind how am I still wounded?"
"You are still wounded because your mind is plagued by indecision, perhaps fear as well. If I had to speculate, I would say it is a matter of the heart, seeing as that is where the wound has manifested."
"By the gods...you're right! It's because of Chrysalis isn't it?"
The unicorn frowned. "I am unfamiliar with this 'Chrysalis', therefore I cannot answer your query."
"Oh...of course not! What I mean is that I haven't resolved how I feel about her. This whole time I feared that I'd be giving up a part of my humanity, if I decided to return her affections. Yes, I realize that she can take the form a woman but...such an ability is merely superficial. What really matters is if I can love her for what she truly is. But...I don't know if I can."
"Forgive my ignorance, but I do not understand what you are giving up."
"I am the only one of my kind...back in the physical world that is. I feel that if I returned her feelings, it would be tantamount to admitting that I shall never return to my world. Furthermore, I...can't say that I'm...hmm...attracted to her equine form. Yes, I know it sounds superficial, but it's the truth!"
"Perhaps you only need to spend more time with her, so that you may become acclimated to her form."
Gaius sighed. "Maybe...it's worth a try at any rate. She deserves that much."
Almost immediately, the wound on Gaius's chest began to dissipate and within seconds it was gone. His eyes widened in disbelief as he ran his fingers over the now, unblemished flesh. Was it really that simple? Even though he still had a tiny sliver of trepidation concerning his relationship with Chrysalis, he was no longer consumed by the fear of indecision. An even tinier part of his mind hoped that their relationship would work out because if it didn't...the feeling of utter loneliness would eventually destroy him.
"Excellent! You have finally cleared your mind. However, we are still in danger."
"I...well, how exactly do we return to the real world?"
"That is a simple matter. Just place one of your hands upon my back. I fear that...I don't have very much magic left but I have enough to help guide you from this place."
"Thank you my friend, I am indebted to you. Should our paths cross in the real world, might I know your name, so that I may thank you in person?"
The unicorn smiled. "I am far closer than you think, Gaius Septimus. Simply utter the name Sentinel when you exit this place, and I shall contact you again." |
Crystalline Destiny | pre | Sweetie Bell grinned "Why don't we go help out at the Boutique?"
"You mean the Boutique is closed cause Rarity's away and she won't let anypony else handle her business?" Scootaloo retorted.
"Oh...yeah" Sweetie Bell mumbled. "Well then what should we do?"
"Why don't we go help Zecora?" Applebloom suggested
"Yeah she's always got something going on." Sweetie Bell agreed as the trio traipsed off down the paths towards the Everfree forest and the hut stationed inside it.
~~~Soon~~~
"Hey Zecora!" Scootaloo called knocking on the door.
It swung open as the cloak wearing zebra glanced at the three, "Ah Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, what brings you three to my home?"
"We were wondering if you needed help with anything." Sweetie Belle said.
"Yeah, Twilight left us in charge of keeping an eye on things around here." Scootaloo said.
"Oh she did now did she?" Zecora asked, "Well I was going to get some fruit for my newer stew."
"We can help!" The CMC said as one Zecora blinked and glanced at them.
"Alright, I guess the extra hooves could be of usage." The zebra said walking toward the forest, "Now the fruit we are looking for is gray and over a starry shape."
"Alright Crusaders, let's go!" Scootaloo ordered running ahead with the other two fillies. Zecora shook her head as she followed.
"Be warned crusaders, the flower of blue is no joke." The zebra said as Apple Bloom skidded to a stop.
"We're near Poison Joke?" The filly asked.
"Yes Apple Bloom, don't be gloom. All will be well, if we remain on our hooves." Zecora reassured. Apple Bloom nodded and caught up with the other two.
"Hey Crusaders there it is!" Apple Bloom said, motioning to the fruit on the tree. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle grinned as they ran ahead.
"Crusaders wait." Zecora called, "The Poison Joke is...ahead." She said as the two fillies glanced back at her, surrounded by the blue flowers.
"Oh no" Sweetie Bell muttered squeaking as she clapped her hooves to her mouth "Whats wrong with my voice?" she squeaked voice even higher pitched than normal.
Scootaloo started to laugh as she rocked back falling onto her back as her feathery wings flared up before draping over top of her as she blinked "Um...what the hay?"
Sweetie bell giggled voice deepening as she did "Hehe nice blanket Scootaloo." she giggled
"Shut up Sweetie Bell this isn't funny how am I gonna ride my scooter like this?!"
"Okay girls, calm down." Apple Bloom said, "We just need to call the Spa Sisters."
"I fear it won't be that easy my crusaders." Zecora said, "For the sisters have left for the weekend. Apple Bloom, will you go to town and get a tub for two?"
"Yes, right away Zecora." Apple Bloom said turning and heading back to town.
"As for you two, we will begin prepping for when Apple Bloom returns." The Zebra said, turning and starting back for her hut, the other two following her.
*Zecora's hut*
"Now as we wait for Apple Bloom, I need you two to get me some items." Zecora said listing off the items.
"Sure thing Zecora." Sweetie Belle said.
"Right away." Scootaloo said.
*With Apple Bloom*
Apple Bloom walked through the forest pulling a tub behind her, "This is heavier than I thought." She muttered stopping outside of the hut, "Zecora? I got the tub..." She opened the door and blinked, as the hut would be covered in liquid and glass shards.
"Sorry Zecora." Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo muttered.
"What happened?" Apple Bloom asked leaving the tub outside.
"We tried to help." Scootaloo said.
"It's over now, Apple Bloom, the tub?" Zecora asked glancing at the earth pony.
"Outside." The filly said as Zecora nodded and walked out putting things into the tub.
"Apple Bloom, will you get the water?" The zebra asked. Apple Bloom nodded and grabbed a vial and taking it out to her.
"And now?" Sweetie Belle asked.
"Get in, it helps." Apple Bloom said as her fellow crusaders climbed into the tub and relaxed.
"I say we wait for help to be needed not go looking for it." Scootaloo proposed.
"Agreed." The other two said.
"A great lesson can be learned from this, check your surroundings before rushing in." Zecora said, smiling softly. |
Crystalline Destiny | Chapter 6: Small Surprises | Chapter 6: Small Surprises
~~~That same evening~~~
The group slowly trudged to a stop, they'd noticed over the course of the last several hours the terrain which up to that point had been mostly fields and scattered trees, had given way to hard rocky ground and crevices as big as all of Canterlot, the sky above had dimmed and taken on a sickly yellow hue and the lighting hadn't changed for the past three hours.
Even the stars, according to a casual observation from Twilight were completely different since they crossed the seemingly invisible border into the new lands they were now traveling deeper and deeper into "Well this is as good a time as any to stop I suppose..." Spitfire muttered.
"Yeah, I mean the sky's been all wonky for awhile now, and everyponies all pooped out" Pinkie giggled still as bouncy as ever.
"How the hell does she do that?" Spitfire mumbled glancing at the party pony confused.
"I've learned...that there is no way of explaining how Pinkie works" Twilight replied. "Just accept it and go with the flow. Best way to explain it"
Spike meanwhile rolled the scroll in his hands up "Alright the letters all done Twilight, should I send it off?"
"Yes Spike send it off as soon as possible so we ensure they get it" She replied horn sparking as she helped light the small stack of wood that Applejack had set up.
Spike nodded and took a deep breath engulfing it in flames which began to turn the scroll into sparkles and whisk it away to...his other hand. Blinking and looking completely confused he took another deep breath, pictured Canterlot clearly in his mind and incinerated the scroll with his enchanted fire once more only to have it float over to reform in his other hand again.
"Spike, quit foolin' around and send it" Applejack commented noticing the dragon's 'show'
"I'm not messing around!" he protested "It just...it starts to go and then its like something changes its destination back to me and it reforms" he sighed "I...don't know why its doing that"
"Well this is good what do we do now?" Rainbow Dash asked crossing her hooves.
"I...I don't know..." Twilight sighed "I mean if we don't send a letter to them they'll assume something's wrong and then they'll rally the army and come charging in here and the Changelings might be planning for that which is why they blocked our ability to send letters, and they have the elements and might have gotten them working" voice starting to grow ever so slightly hysterical.
"Woah there sugarcube calm down" Applejack cut in muffling Twilight's freak out by planting a hoof on her mouth "We'll figure sumthin' out."
Twilight nodded silently sitting down her wings slowly stilling. Applejack slowly lowered her hoof "Now that we've avoided hysterical freaking out, we need a plan." Soarin commented.
"But what could possibly allow us to communicate with the Princesses when Spikey can't send his letters?" Rarity asked tapping her chin with a lone hoof in thought.
The group fell silent trying to think of something when of all ponies Rainbow Dash brightened "I GOT IT!" she declared.
Fluttershy eeped and tried to hide as Twilight gently stopped her with a wing "Calm down Fluttershy there's nothing to worry about"
"R-right" she mumbled sitting back down "W-what do you got Rainbow?" she asked glancing at her friend.
Smirking the cerulean mare pointed at TWilight "Simple really, you egghead call Princess Luna while you're asleep tonight and let her know whats going on."
"M-me?" the violet mare squeaked cheeks tinted ever so slightly pink.
"Dashie, what the hay are you going on about?" Applejack asked .
RD chuckled "Scoots told me about it a couple months ago, she was nervous about something and it was interfering with her sleep. THe princess helped her out, said it was one of her duties as ruler of the night to ensure her subjects didn't fall to nightmares or some such nonsense" She waved a wing "The POINT is, I figured if Twilly here puts out some sort of I dunno magical, alicorny SOS call the Princess might hear and we can keep in touch that way."
"You know...that just might work Dashie." Spitfire grinned "Nice call"
"I call it as I see it" Dashie replied with a chuckle "Now if anypony needs me I'll be going to crash that storm took alot out of me." With that she spread her wings and flew up towards one of the few clouds overhead.
Twilight flushed softly "I suppose...I can give it a shot...I can't promise it'll work she probably has plenty of more important things to do... you know than to listen to me ramble."
"Just do yer best Sugarcube," applejack assured her "Now go relax while ah get dinner started."
"A-alright." the youngest princess muttered quietly "I think I'm just gonna go lay down I'm not feeling very hungry." she admitted flying off as well.
"Oh...I-I hope I d-d-didn't upset T-Twilight again." Fluttershy mumbled
"Its not you darling, she's still just a bit...confused and off balance from earlier. She's worried about her own power." Rarity explained.
~~~Soon~~~
Twilight sighed softly as she closed her eyes "Okay just...gotta relax...and remember what I was told about how to relax your mind and take control of a dream..." she mumbled closing her eyes as she relaxed atop the cloud in question letting her mind slowly slip away into the relaxed state she'd been taught during her meditations taking care to keep her breathing steady. Even as she did so her mind slowly drifted further and further from the waking world the young mare drifting off to sleep easily enough.
~~~Inside the dream~~~
Twilight fluttered her eyes open as she found herself on the balcony of the Library back in Ponyville "huh...well...I suppose this is as good a place for a meeting as any" she muttered quietly "now how to...call her..." she mused her horn starting to glow faintly as she concentrated her mind returning almost against her will to the letter from before. If I need to speak to her...just call her name?
With a small shrug she glanced up towards the full moon hanging low in the sky "P-princess Luna?" she called aloud voice hesitant.
"Must you really be so formal all the time Twilight Sparkle?" a voice asked from behind her making her squeak and jump spinning around and nearly fall off the balcony.
"P-Princess L-L-Luna!" she stuttered caught off guard as she steadied herself "I um...wow...that actually worked..."
The Lunar Princess smiled faintly "I told thee, you had only to call my name did I not?" she replied quietly "So did you really think I would ignore thine call?"
Twilight blushed as she realized what she'd implied with her surprise "N-not at all just...well it was just nerves." she admitted in a quiet mumble glancing away a bit looking out over the slumbering city.
She stiffened in surprise as she felt a soft feathery weight drape itself around her shoulders pulling her against her friend's side "Relax Twilight, I'm not here to upset you or anything, now...what did you need?" she asked softly the only hint of the reaction to their closeness being the faintest pink across the edge of her cheeks.
"W-well...we crossed into what we're assuming are the Changelings' lands." she described what the area looked like as Luna frowned and nodded.
"You guessed right, I remember from the first time we encountered the changelings. Do not come to rely on the passage of the Sun and Moon for telling the days, as our power does not stretch that far, they have developed their own passage of light and shadows thanks to their queen's magic."
Twilight blinked and glanced up at her noticing the grim frown on her face "What?! Is she truly stronger than you and Princess Celestia?"
"Not within the bounds of Equestria, but in their homelands they have had plenty of time to build up their power and cast enchantments to help their power. So a warning to you and thine friends Twilight Sparkle." her voice growing grim and formal "Don't enter the nest or dare face Queen Chrysalis, without the power of the Elements at your command, Princess you may be, but you are not yet experienced enough to face her in the center of her power alone."
Twilight nodded softly glancing down a bit "R-r-right." she mumbled softly only to stiffen and shiver as she felt a soft nuzzle on her cheek peeking up cracking a small smile as she nuzzled Luna back ears twitching faintly as she did "I...I wanted to thank you for your letter...earlier...it helped alot more than I could ever say."
"I'm glad we could help, and it is a common issue with young Alicorns, especially if they get emotional, believe me, blowing up clouds and blasting holes through supposedly indestructable crystal ceilings is the least of the mess ups that have occurred in Equestria's history."
Perking up the eager student glanced up meeting Luna's teal eyes "Really?" she asked curiously "You mean...ah um...that is..." she suddenly realized what her question would entail. "I-I mean." she cut off as Luna giggled.
"Well I take it you would like to hear a few tales about mine and my sister's younger years?" she asked smirking softly.
"if...its not too much trouble." she replied quietly squeaking in surprise as she got flicked on the tip of an ear glancing up she smirked seeing luna's hoof lowering down again.
"Not at all, I just hope you don't mind if I focus more on the stories of how Tia messed up more than myself." she retorted
"I think I can live with that." Twilight giggled.
~~~Waking world, several hours earlier~~~
Rainbow Dash dropped onto a cloud above the group as they stopped for the night. She sighed softly and laid her head down closing her eyes.
"Tired?" Soarin asked dropping down next to Rainbow, causing her to jump.
"Wha? Yeah sorry." She said, laying back down, "Long day, lots of flying."
Soarin nodded, "Yeah I bet, and then having the storm to take care of. You did good during that."
Rainbow blushed lightly, "Thanks. You too"
~~~With Spike~~~
The young dragon gave a small sigh as he rolled the useless scroll in his hands "Ugh..why did I come along then? All I'm good for is to send the reports but even thats unneeded now." he muttered twirling the bunch of parchment in his hand.
"That is NOT all you are good for Spike, and I am insulted that you'd think that" A voice came from behind him making him jump and drop the letter.
"WAUGH!!!" he yelped spinning around and flushing faintly at the sight behind him "O-oh Rarity, ah um...t-thanks" he muttered awkwardly as he turned back to sit down.
Smiling the fashionista trotted over to take a seat next to him, a fair sized blanket being stretched out for her to do so "You're quite welcome darling." she replied warmly patting the blanket next to her with a hoof to invite him to join her.
He smiled softly and slipped up to sit on the blanket with her "Hey Rarity...thanks for being so stubborn with Twi earlier..." he commented quietly as he sat down the two of them still talking as the shadows deepened around them.
~~~Several hours later~~~
Spitfire stood up in the middle of the night and stretched her wings, jumping over from one cloud to the other, landing not far from two figures. She glanced over at the figures to make sure they were still asleep before flapping her wings to take off. A slight movement out of the corner of her eye caught her attention, Spitfire standing up straight and slowly walking over to the two.
"Just who is this anyways?" She muttered, her jaw dropping at the site of Soarin and Rainbow cuddled close, both asleep. Spitfire blinked a couple of times before shutting her mouth and walking to the edge of the cloud, jumping down.
As she glided down to the ground she noticed two little bundles of color near the campfire's flickering embers, she flicked an ear slightly as she managed to make out Big McIntosh and Fluttershy the latter curled up next to the farmer who had one forehoof gently resting over her shoulders.
On the other side she had to stiffle a small chuckle at the sight of Rarity curled up on her side forehooves hugging the scaly form of spike gently like he was some sort of stuffed animal though if the smile on his face was any indicator then he didn't exactly mind.
She glanced around as she walked over to Twilight and nudged the Alicorn a couple of times. Blinking as the mare rolled over onto her other side as she slept mumbling to herself as she did so leaning forward she listened intently as she realized the slumbering Alicorn...was laughing "I'm...never gonna be able to look at the color blue the same way again..."
She blinked and sighed shaking her more "Come on Twilight wake up" she urged trying to ignore the odd comment.
"Wha?" Twilight muttered lifting her head and glancing at the Wonderbolt, "Spitfire? What's wrong?"
"Nothing." Spitfire said softly, "I need a camera."
Twilight blinked a couple of times before her horn glowed and a camera appeared in front of Spitfire, who took it grinning.
"I probably don't wanna know why you need that." Twilight muttered laying back down.
"Blackmail on Soarin...and Rainbow." Spitfire grinned spreading her wings to take off.
"You woke me up? For blackmail?" she muttered tiredly as the wonderbolt flew off.
"Never a bad time for blackmail" she shot back before flying back up onto the cloud and taking a couple of pictures. She grinned as the two remained asleep and she jumped back onto the other cloud, putting the camera away and going back to sleep. |
Crystalline Destiny | Chapter 7: The Next Dawn | Chapter 7: The Next Dawn
~~~Changeling Lands, Sunrise Equestrian Standard Time~~~
"Ugh...whats so soft..." Rainbow mumbled as she shifted slightly eyes still closed as she nuzzled in against her 'pillow' humming softly, relaxing slowly and giving off a low yawn almost, almost back to sleep.
Then her 'pillow' such as it were groaned and Rainbow's eyes shot open in milliseconds as she noticed that instead of the little patch of cloud she'd curled up on to sleep on the night before she was cuddled up rather closely against Soarin' as she gave an odd little squeak as she tried to wriggle out of his hooves "Ohmanohmanohmanohmanohman" she muttered as she failed to get enough purchase to slip free.
"Ungh...who's shakin the cloud" Soarin muttered as Rainbow froze in fear as his eyes fluttered open soon enough green eyes met red as both pegasi blushed "oh buck, I sure hope Spitfire is..."
"Spitfire is what?" A voice asked as the two yelped jumping in opposite directions and nearly tumbling off the cloud they'd been laying on as Their boss laughed from her perch on a smaller cloud positioned just above theirs. "God I knew it'd be funny waking you two up but I never knew it'd be THAT good"
"I-its not what it looked like" Rainbow muttered as she recovered fighting to keep her face calm.
"M-must have just been cold last night" Soarin agreed as he turned and jumped off the cloud fleeing the confrontation, give him storms, rampaging dragons, or out of control animals any day of the week, rather than dealing with such an awkward situation.
~~~With Spike and Rarity~~~
Spike groaned softly fluttering his eyes open slowly yawning hugely as he shifted "mph...do I gotta wake up..." he muttered, he was comfy, even more so than when he was in his bed back home, as he hummed softly closing his eyes again as he felt a gentle squeeze around his middle, shifting slightly one paw came to rest on the warm hooves wrapped around his belly grinning lightly.
Wait...Hooves?!
Cracking an eye open he turned his head slightly to see that he was indeed being cuddled rather tightly by a still sleeping, mask wearing Rarity "Oooh boy" he muttered violet scales heating up with a deep blush.
Even as he tried to think of how to get out of this awkward situation he heard a small yawn from behind his head as he tilted it again seeing the designer's horn glowing as her mask slid up "Morning Spikey" she muttered.
"M-m-morning Rarity" he stuttered softly
"Spikey? Whats wro..." she paused as she noticed the position they were in as she blushed cheeks turning red as she released her grip "Oh I'm so sorry Spikey darling" she muttered glancing away.
Picking himself up Spike gave a small smile "I-its fine Rarity, no harm done, and I mean we both slept well r-right?"
"Well...yes...but I just..."
"But nothing Rarity, its fine, no harm done," he assured her simply.
The fashionista smiled back slightly.
~~~With Fluttershy and Big McIntosh~~~
A small yawn escaped Fluttershy's mouth as she woke up shifting slightly as a kind voice came from next to her "Mornin'" it greeted simply.
Her face immediately turned a deep cherry red as she squeaked and jumped up instinctively trying to spread her wings to find a place to hide only to wince as her injured wing twinged "O-o-oh my...I-I a-a-a-am s-s-so so soooo sorry Mister McIntosh...." she squeaked.
"No need to worry Miss Fluttershy..." he replied quietly "just hope you slept okay"
"I-I slept f-fine" she stuttered shyly glancing down at the ground.
"Good"
Fluttershy flushed softly as she scratched her hoof on the ground slightly to embarrassed to speak.
~~~Later on the road~~~
Spitfire glanced back at Rainbow Dash, who was down talking to Twilight, before smirking slightly and glancing at Soarin. Soarin blinked and glanced over at the other Pegasus.
"Uh, Spitfire?" He asked, nervous at the look on her face "What's up?"
"Oh just wondering about you and Rainbow Dash." Spitfire said.
Soarin flushed, "I-I don't know what you're talking about." He stuttered.
"Oh? So you two cuddling last night meant nothing?" The female wonderbolt asked, grinning as the blue Pegasus flushed more.
"I-i-i.." Soarin stuttered more as Spitfire laughed.
"Oh yes, and I have pictures." She said flying ahead a bit as Soarin froze in mid-air, flushing.
"What the hay is wrong with Soarin?" Applejack asked motioning up at the Wonderbolt.
"No clue AJ" Spike commented scratching his head slightly.
Spitfire circled back and dropped down by Twilight and Rainbow Dash "Hey Dashie, think you can do me a favor and check on Soarin? I think there's something wrong with him"
Rainbow blinked and glanced up nodding "Huh? ah sure Boss lemme see whats up" she commented spreading her wings and shooting off.
"So whats up with Soarin?" Twilight asked as the wonderbolt touched down to walk next to her.
Waving a wing Spitfire grinned "Nothing much, was teasing him about what I saw last night." she replied "but there's something I wanted to talk to you about."
"Alright, shoot" she replied curious now.
"Well....I just noticed something last night while I was trying to wake you up. You were...mumbling in your sleep."
Twilight flushed a bit "I-I was?"
Spitfire watched her reaction carefully "Yeah you were mumbling something about the color blue..."
Twilight let out a small giggle "Oh um...ah ..." she flushed worse "you see...it was...I was just having a weird dream last night, once the Princess left but still...its nothing you need to worry about."
Spitfire nodded slowly "Alright...just was wondering."
"Its just...it was an odd dream but it helped you know?"
"so you're feeling better after yesterday?" She asked.
Nodding the violet alicorn gave a small smile "Yup, not...perfect but a ton better than I was"
"Alright then..." she nodded faintly "Thanks for your time Twi"
"Anytime Spitfire"
With that the fiery colored mare flew off as well. ugh great I was talking about that story last night...how embarassing...well at least Luna hadn't decided that she had to submit me to another round of her tickle torture to get me to cheer up.
She shook her head a bit cheeks lighting up in a blush "Gah...I'm so glad that nopony in this group is psychic" she muttered.
"Why's that Twilly?" Pinkie Pie asked from behind the violet mare.
"GAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!" she yelped jumping up twenty feet and hovering there with her wings. "W-what the hay where did you come from Pinkie?!" she demanded
"I've been here the whole time while you've been talking to yourself silly filly" she giggled "So why are you glad nopony is psychic here?"
"Just cause my minds rambling all over the place cause of my nerves..." Twilight replied slowly fluttering down to land "Itd drive anypony who could hear it nutty" she added.
"Oh? anything interesting going around that brain of yours twilly?" she asked "Like something to do with TICKLING?!" she demanded leaning in closer nose to nose with her friend.
Twilight let out a squeak "W-w-wha? H-h-how did you know that?" She asked wings fluffing out in shock.
"Just a hunch, I was RIGHT wasn't I?" she grinned bouncing around her friend giggling "So...why was Lulu tickle torturing you? Hmmmm?"
Right then, Twilight wished nothing more, than for the ground to open up and swallow her whole before she melted from embarrassment "It was nothing Pinkie...it was just her way of helping cheer me up, I was a bit down a while ago is all." she mumbled hoping to stave off the interrogation.
"Oh? So you're not gonna tell me? Well maybe I'll just go get Rarity, she'll help me and I'm sure she'd LOVE to hear about this." she smirked softly bouncing still.
Twilight paled, Rarity...the one pony here who she knew would read the MOST into the innocent encounter two weeks after her corornation, "N-No there's no need to go bug her Pinkie, you know she's grumpy if she's woken up for no reason..."
"But this is a perfectly important reason silly filly!" Pinkie declared poking Twilight in the chest.
"If I tell you what happened...will you back off?" Twilight asked sighing slightly, wings drooping more as her pink friend nodded vigorously "Fine...it was about Two weeks after my Coronation, I had had a long rough day of training and was in a bum mood. I just coudln't get the hang of my powers, even my magic was touchy at best only responding a fraction of the time..."
"I was out in the garden trying to clear my head with little actual success, when I noticed this orb of light just dangling in the path ahead of me, my curiosity was piqued so I started to examine it, finally I reached out to touch it, as soon as I did a weird warmth just flooded my body from head to toe and it was like I was being tickled...everywhere at once...it felt amazing I couldn't help laughing." her face was pink "it wasn't...bad...or overly long. Just enough to brighten my mood..."
"So...thats it?"
Twilight nodded "thats the whole story, She put out the spell to help cheer me up, we talked a little I thanked her and went to bed." she finished simply fighting to keep her voice even and succeeding mostly.
Pinkie narrowed her eyes at her friend "Fine....that was a cute story Twilly" she giggled "See its not that big a deal" she added bouncing away again further up the group.
Twilight sighed in relief "I thought she'd never leave..." she mumbled, staying near the back as the group trudged on deeper and deeper into the hostile lands that grew deeper and darker as they continued on |
Crystalline Destiny | Chapter 8: Seeking Harmony | Chapter 8: Seeking Harmony
~~~Three days later~~~
"Hey Twilly any leads on the elements?"
"Its the same as the last TEN times you've asked me Rainbow Dash they're ahead...to the north...thats the BEST I can do" she shot back "Ask me one more time, and you'll be the first Pegasus to see what's past the MOON!" she added glaring at her friend who swallowed and fell silent.
"Um...Twilight?" a quiet voice asked from her other side.
The poor alicorn nearly screamed "WHAT?!" she cried whirling on the culprit.
Fluttershy paled and squeaked ducking her head "N-nevermind..."
"I'm sorry Fluttershy just someponies been grinding my nerves all morning" she replied trying to reassure her friend as she shot another glare at Dashie who had the intelligence to give a dry chuckle and start flying on ahead.
The group walked on as it was a little while before much was said, and when it was, it was a rather innocent question.
"Hey Twilight,-" Spike started
"What? Going to ask where the elements are? Why I can't give a more exact location where they are?" she snapped whirling on the baby dragon "What sorta doubts are you all gonna heap on me now? Guess what I'm not bucking PERFECT!" she raged horn sparking faintly as she did.
the group at this point had drawn to a halt, eight sets of eyes staring aghast and confused at the shaking Alicorn. "Hm...pent up aggression, exploding at random points at those you call friends, being the first to fall asleep every night...Tell tale signs of an affair..."
This of course set the group off everypony whirling around to stare at the sight of an odd looking figure sitting in a chair a pair of glasses perched on his muzzle, Twilight's reaction was the loudest "Discord?! What the HAY are you talking about?!"
"Oh Twilly, haven't you learned anything about taking a Joke?" he asked glancing up smirking at the glare the Alicorn was giving him "You know you still aren't intimidating right?"
"Shut up, what the hay are you even doing here loser?" Rainbow Dash demanded
Soarin sighed "I'm betting Princess Celestia sent you to check up on us didn't she?" he asked
"Glad to see someone here's using their head" The Dragonequus replied smirking as he tapped on the note pad in his claw...paw thing. "That is indeed the 'official' reason I am out here in this chaos forsaken land to talk to all of you silly little ponies..."
"Just skip to the point Discord, we all know you're not just here for official reasons, you're never ANYWHERE for just official reasons!" Twilight cut in an air of a long standing argument audible in her voice.
"Oh Twilly, why would I simply handle the obvious business? Do you have any idea how boring life would be without mixing things up alittle? Then again I can think of a few other things that would get boring too wouldn't they Twilly?" he asked.
Twilight growled "Mixing things up, is THAT what you call switching all the books in the library around when I was trying to read up on my new powers? I can't begin to tell you how long it took me to find all the parts of 'A Study of Alicorn Magic' so I could finish reading it all."
"Three days, ten hours, twenty two minutes and fifteen point seven seconds exactly." the god of chaos replied idly examining a claw "But that wasn't what I was talking about and YOU know it Twilly"
She paused and frowned "You wouldn't..." she muttered cheeks flaring up pink.
"I think I would...it would be hilarious to see their reactions to this little number..."
"Discord I swear the first thing I'll do when we get back is seal you in your statue for a DECADE if you tell them." She shot back.
He smirked knowing he'd hit a nerve "and disappoint your dear mentor?" he chuckled as the violet alicorn grumbled faintly, "or maybe you're just ashamed of your newest...friend...she'd be so heartbroken to hear you so embarrassed about how she helped you out."
"How the hay do you even know anything? You've never been around when we've hung out!" she protested.
"Twi, what on earth are you two talkin' about?" Applejack asked only to be ignored.
Discord chuckled "I have my ways Twilly...now then I think its time for a little show and tell to...liven up this extended party you're hosting"
"Why do you hate me so much?" Twilight sighed giving in to the fact there was no stopping the Dragonequus.
"Twilight if I hated you, I wouldn't be doing this, I find you a fun pony to be around..." he smirked "Cause you're just so easy to mess with..." his hands glowed faintly as an image began to form like smoke in front of the group.
Twilight whimpered faintly and sat down head hung. The scene that formed was familiar to her "why me" she mumbled "why am I the one to suffer..."
"Cause you're awesome like that Twi" Dashie replied absently "Now hush I admit...I'm curious now"
~~~Projection, Royal Canterlot Observatory, one year earlier, late night/early morning~~~
Twlight sighed as she gazed out over the slumbering city, "the day went well...but...why do I still feel so off..." she sighed ears drooping "Because I'm still upset over what happened..."
"Something troubling you Twilight Sparkle?" a soft voice asked behind her as she spun around stiffening at the sight of the Princess of the Night.
Immediately she started to bow "Oh ah...sorry Princess Lu-"
"Please Twilight Sparkle, there is no need to bow to me, we are friends are we not?" she asked slightly waving the display of reverence off.
Straightening Twilight blushed softly "Y-yes we are..." she smiled slightly "So...um...if you were coming up here to do something I-I can leave..."
"what if I were to tell you you're the reason I'm up here?" the other mare replied with a small smile.
Twilight blinked "You are?" she asked honestly confused "But...why...how did you even know i was up here?"
"One of my guards saw you coming up, I was surprised to learn you were still awake after all thats happened today." she replied approaching slowly as the Unicorn turned away.
"I just...needed to think...about everything that had gone on..." she replied quietly "Today... the way everypony reacted..."
"it hurt didn't it?" Luna asked quietly glancing down at her friend.
She nodded "I thought...they would believe me, that after Discord we could stick together through anything, but they so easily turned their backs on me...Even Princess Celestia..." a soft sniff came as she looked down.
"Losing the trust of those you care about hurts, be it for a few hours or a millenia..." Luna muttered quietly "But you will never recover if you continue to dwell on it...I know all to well..." she frowned slightly.
"I'm sorry...I bet t-this is the last thing you want to hear..." twilight mumbled glancing away.
Giving a half smile the taller mare shook her head "Nay, I'm here to try and help you Twilight..." her wing stretched out to wrap around her younger friend's shoulders pulling her in closer "Just...let it out Twilight" she murmured softly "however you wish, I've got you my friend, I promise" her voice grew softer as Twilight sniffled one last time before giving in turning and nuzzling her muzzle against Luna's shoulder breaking down, tears streaming down her cheeks as the Princess' grasp tightened slightly silence reigning under the watchful gaze of the moon above....
~~~Present Day, midday, Changeling Lands, End Vision~~~
Twilight curled up "Can I die now....why did you HAVE to show them THAT?!" she demanded glaring darkly at the smirking Discord.
"Oh Twilly I told you I'd enjoy their reactions..." he retorted "And I am..." with that a flash of smoke erupted as he was now seated in a plush chair a cup in one arm and a bag of popcorn in his claw.
"Ugh..." she groaned covering her head in her wings face bright red in embarrassment.
"Twi..." Spike muttered glancing at his friend.
"I...I had no idea we'd hurt yah so much sugarcube."
"I'm fine, that was awhile ago." Twilight replied brushing it off "I got over it eventually, I came to terms with it and moved on"
"But still, you had a point, we'd been through enough together we should have at least given you the benefit of the doubt..." Rainbow Dash replied.
"yes Darling, I guess...we just got so wrapped up in preparing for the wedding we didn't want to accept that it was fake..." Rarity added laying a hoof on Twilight's shoulder.
"I get it girls, like I said...it was awhile ago, I'm not mad anymore...I could never stay mad at you all for long." She replied sitting up slightly. "So please...just...don't go reading too much into this okay?"
"A-alright Twilight" Fluttershy mumbled quietly.
Discord sighed "You know i was hoping for a bit more humor from that" he muttered "Well I do have other things to attend to...so I really MUST be going" he smirked "just remember what I said Twilly...chow." with a puff of smoke the creature vanished.
Twilight sighed faintly and stood up "Lets just get moving" she commented starting forward at a steady trot only to yelp as a pink blur tackled her knocking her back into a roll as she landed wrapped in a tight hug from a certain hyper party pony
"Oh Twilly I'msorrysorrysorrysorrysorrysorrysorry!" she whined rapidly "I didn't mean to make you cry like that! I just had never gotten to throw a party like that before I was so super mega excited I didn't stop to think how you'd feel." she stated all in one breath as she squeezed her friend tightly "Please forgive me Twilly, pleasepleasepleasepleaseplease!"
"Ugh...ah...Pinkie...I can't..." She muttered squirming a bit only to yelp as soon the rest of her friends joined in the group hug "g-girls...I-I told you I was fine" she muttered faintly a smile crossing her muzzle all the same.
"Still its long overdue for us to apologize Twilight...i-if you don't mind" Fluttershy mumbled
"Its fine Fluttershy...I appreciate this really girls" She smiled softly managing to pat the yellow pegasus on the shoulder awkwardly "But really...we should get going the elements and Cadance won't rescue themselves ya know" she noted as the group hug slowly split up Twilight shaking herself out a bit and grimacing as her wings still appeared ruffled as she fluttered them faintly to shake them back out. "Hang on...somethings...." she frowned and closed her eyes her horn glowing faintly as it sparkled faintly the ring glowing faintly, at the same time a light tingling came from the necks of Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie all at the same time "I'm...the trace on the Elements has shifted...They're...they're not just straight ahead anymore..."
"Where are they now?" Rainbow asked eagerly.
Twilight frowned "they're...that way" she muttered "no...that way..." she shook her head glancing around "They're...this is bad..."
"Whats wrong sugarcube?" Applejack asked a bit worriedly as her friend spun around in a circle
With a large sigh Twilight concentrated six simple images forming from the light on her horn imitating the shape of her friend's cutie marks spreading out in several different directions "Loyalty's to the northwest, laughter to the southwest, kindness to the east, generosity to the south as best I can tell, Honesty's to the north east, and Magic's straight ahead to the north." She explained "We're gonna have to split up to find them all."
"You sure thats a good idea?" Spitfire asked "WE have no idea how well guarded they are we might need all the strength we can get."
"But we can't let the changelings know we've found them, we split up and hit all six as quickly as possible, so they have little time to figure out we're retrieving the elements." Rainbow Dash replied.
"But...who goes with who?" Pinkie pie asked curiously "I mean...ya know who would make the best teams?"
Rarity smiled faintly "I was thinking about that and might have a few ideas..." She stated glancing around the group "I was thinking we send Fluttershy and Big McIntosh out to retrieve the Element of Kindness, Dashie and Soarin go to try and find Loyalty, Applejack and Spitfire to find Honesty, Twilight, you and Spikey can track down magic, and I and pinkie will go after our own elements ourselves."
"That sounds like a plan to me" AJ replied smiling slightly.
The rest of the group nodded and gave various assents but for Twilight "I don't think its a good idea for anyone to accompany me" she replied simply.
"why not Twi?" Rainbow asked
"Simple, to use the Elements which I'm betting they're planning they'd have to immitate us and to copy us that'd mean there'd be an alicorn changeling running around with as much power as i have. Now I can defend myself fairly well, but I can't fight them and keep an eye on somepony else at the same time. So I want to go alone so I can take down whoever has their grubby hooves on my Element and show them what they get for messing with Equestria. So Spike I want you to accompany Rarity to go find the Element of Generosity."
"Hey I have a question...why is it nopony's wondering about sending Pinkie off alone?" Soarin asked quietly.
Rainbow snorted "Simple, she knows everything and has her Pinkie Sense she'll be fine, there isn't ANYTHING! Those changeling losers can come up with that she won't see comin'."
Pinkie grinned dementedly as she reached behind her whipping out a fair sized cannon "And I have my Party Cannon!"
"See? Just fine" spike commented waving a claw in dismissal. With that decision the group gathered up their things and started off in their individual directions
~~~Ponyville~~~
Screams filled the streets as a little blue bug floated over to an apple stand
"The Horror, the Horror!" Lily yelled as she ran inside.
"Zecora...is that?" Scootaloo asked.
"A parasprite." Zecora responded, "A little sprite that has an appeitite to destroy our home. In short, we're doomed." |
Crystalline Destiny | Chapter 9: Honest Till it hurts | Chapter 9: Honest till it hurts
~~~With Applejack and Spitfire~~
"So, you have a plan to deal with your doppelganger?" The pegasus asked glancing at her companion.
"Nope" the farmer replied simply.
"What? Do you mean you're going to go against a changeling impersonating you without a plan?"
"What do you expect me to plan? What tree ahm gonna buck it into?" she asked glancing up at Spitfire from underneath her hat. "Ah don't fly I don't use any magic...Mah rope and mah legs are all I need" she retorted simply "I'll have that fake hogtied in no time flat"
"Alright," Spitfire commented falling silent for a few minutes "Hey Applejack...can I talk to you about something"
"Shoot Spitfire" the farmer replied "whatcha wanna know?"
Spitfire slowly touched down on the stony path next to Applejack "Um...well...its about Twilight"
The farmer glanced at the wonderbolt "What 'bout her?"
"Well....do you know anything about if she...well...." Spitfire trailed off clearly awkward about the topic.
"Spit it out already sugarcube." Applejack muttered shaking her head slightly
The fiery colored pegasus sighed "Do you know if she has an interest in anypony? Like romantically?"
Applejack stopped glancing at the Pegasus confused "Ah...why?"
"Just...trying to make sense of something" Spitfire replied.
"Well she hasn't shown any interest that I've noticed" AJ replied slowly "But then again, I ain't exactly seeing her all the time..."
"Alright...thanks Applejack" Spitfire muttered frowning slightly That was no help at all.
the earth pony frowned as she glanced at her companion and sighed "A'right now spill why are you so interested in Twi's love life?"
Spitfire blinked and sighed "The truth is, remember the other day when Twilight first arranged a conversation with Princess Luna to inform her of our progress?" the farmer nodded confused "Well I had to wake her up in the middle of the night to get me a camera for...business reasons for the wonderbolts" She explained "She mumbled something when she was waking up..."
"So? What does that gotta do with you askin' so many strange questions?" Applejack asked confused still.
"She said something about never being able to look at the color blue the same way again" Spitfire replied "Now considering her reaction when I asked her about it...I have the suspicion that it has to do with her feelings for somepony."
Applejack blinked and sighed "Spitfire, ah respect what you and the other wonderbolts do, and ah respect that you both took time ot help us on this quest of ours. But ah have to cut you off there...do you have any idea how silly that sounds?"
"But..." the pegasus started as the farmer cut her off
"But nothin' ah know Twi pretty well from all our time together as friends. She'll get flustered at the drop of a hat. And fer the silliest things."
"You mean?"
"The odds of that little mumbling being about somepony in that way? slim to none I'm afraid, its probably some new spell or sumthing."
Spitfire opened her mouth to respond when an orange figure dropped before her spinning around to buck the wonderbolt into a nearby boulder making her cry out in pain nad crash to the ground stunned.
"Ifin yah don't mind sugarcube we've got business to discuss" the newcomer stated as Applejack's eyes widened a moment.
"Who are ya?" Applejack growled bracing herself glaring at the still shadowed figure who turned the bejeweled apple around her neck glowing lighting up their features.
"ain't it obvious?" the 'pony' stated eyes flashing green a moment "ah'm you AJ..."
"No you aint, yer just some wanna be copyin' me." the farmer spat starting to circle the fake slowly "Now why dontcha back off and hand over mah element before ah've gotta get rough withcha"
"Now now...what would be the fun in that?" the changeling replied as she started to copy AJ's pace mirroring it the two now inscribing a slow circle in the dust.
"The 'fun' is when ah don't buck yah so hard you burn up on yer way down" Applejack shot back twisting to grasp her lasso in her teeth starting to twirl the loop around above her head before snapping it out to loop around the fake's neck.
Instead the fake dodged to the side grabbing the rope with her own teeth and yanking hard on it throwing the farmer off her hooves before she released the rope and bounced upright spinning on her forelegs to aim a powerful buck at her copy, this blow was the same strength that regularly emptied entire apple tree's in one hit.
Instead of doing as she planned which was to slam her opponent into a nearby rock to cripple them, the changeling shifted taking the buck in the shoulder as it stumbled her back a few steps grunting as she lunged forward tackling the farmer sending the two rolling across the dusty ground as the changeling managed to get her hooves up agaisnt Applejack's belly and give an almighty kick flipping the farmer pony off of her and tumbling across the ground with a groan. "Is this really how strong you are? no wonder your family's poorer than dirt and that pathetic farm of yours is barely limping along."
Applejack limped upwards grunting as she scooped her hat up and jammed it down atop her head "Ah don't know what yer talking bout the farm's doin' better than ever." she spat "Heck we've got a big order in the works for the next Grand Gallopin' Gala." she added "So ah don't care what you spout ah ain't listenin'." she finished charging with her own shoulder hit on her doppleganger who grunted and twisted around it leaving Applejack to skid to a stop to avoid slamming into a charging Spitfire one wing held at an awkward angle.
"Dammit...another five seconds" The wonderbolt muttered wincing as her injured wing stretched.
"Sit this here roundup out Spitfire" Applejack muttered "ah don't wantcha hurting yerself any more than yah have already."
"Are you nuts I'm not letting you fight that thing by yourself. My wings fiiiiiinnng" she gritted her teeth as she tried to flex the injured limb.
"Go on 'n git" the farmer urged "Ah've got this varmit' Cause Nopony, and I mean NOPONY, changeling or not, insults mah family's farm and gets away with it." she growled tugging her hat lower on her head.
Spitfire sighed and held out something with her uninjured wing "Then at least take this..." she replied holding out her teammate's lasso.
"Thanks." She replied taking the coil of rope in her mouth and turning shoving Spitfire to the side as she was tackled by her counterpart grunting as the fake's hooves tried to get a grasp on the farmer's throat.
"I think its time you stop lying to yourself...Nopony truly cares about a useless stubborn farmer like you." she grunted a crazed look entering her eyes.
Applejack grimmaced tucking her muzzle down to cover her neck as she brought her own hooves up to slam into the changeling's gut "have ah told ya how much I HATE liars?" she spat flinging her double away to tumble across the ground. Rolling upright she charged aiming a hoof at her target's jaw. Only to get nailed by a buck to the face throwing her back into a nearby rock with a cry of pain slumping to the ground.
"Have I told you how much I hate stuck up mares like you?" the changeling growled as Applejack pushed herself upright slowly spitting a mouthful of blood off to the side.
"Ah don't give a mule's butt what you hate." She retorted rolling her shoulders "All ah care about is that collar around yer neck" she added rushing forward ducking the retalitory hoof swing and twisted around bucking her hooves back throwing the changeling back in turn spinning lasso snapping out to snag the airborne mare by the hoof as Applejack spun swinging her around to slam her into the same boulder she'd hit...hard.
the changeling rippled slowly changing back to normal glancing up at the approaching farmer "W-what the hell drives you on?" it muttered insectoid wings buzzing faintly the fragile limbs broken from the impact.
Applejack grunted as she reached down grasping the jewled pendant of the element clasped around the changeling's neck "Ah ain't ever gonna give up on mah friends" she retorted pulling the necklat off and shivering as the strangely familiar warmth slid up her hoof. "Ah don't care who or what I gotta face."
A strange silvery green ooze trailed out of the changeling's mouth "Fine...just take the blasted thing, it kept burning me anyway."
Spitfire walked up slowly as she glanced at Applejack, lower lip split, bruise on her chest from the kick, mane and fur was matted, hat dusty and half crushed as the farmer clasped the Element of Honesty back around her neck shivering and standing a bit straighter. "Feeling better?"
"Loads, lets git back to the others Spitfire." the farmer replied turning to walk away dusting her hat off as she did so reshaping the material absently. |
Crystalline Destiny | Happy Go Insane | Hey, so yeah, we own nothing! *Grins*
Pinkie bounced down a trail, singing as she did so, her tail twitching after a bit. She stopped and glanced back at the tail.
"Oooh, Pinkie Sense!" The pink pony said, "I wonder what's going to happen?" She twisted around in circles following her tail. As she did this a shadow formed over her before a gray-pink pony landed on Pinkie. Pinkie squirmed out from underneath the other pony.
"Oh hiya me." Pinkie grinned as the other 'Pinkie' stood up, hair flat and gray, with the element of laughter around her neck. "I need that back."
"You're going to have come and get it then." The changeling said, twisting around and kicking Pinkie in the face, forcing the party pony backwards.
"Oh, fine." Pinkie said, before pulling out the cannon and aiming it at the changeling, who smirked as she ran forward and jumped over the cannon as it fired, landing on top of Pinkie, pinning her down.
"Next?" The changeling asked before getting kicked off by Pinkie. The changling growled as she climbed back to her feet as Pinkie fired off another blast from the cannon knocking her back.
Pinkie tilted her head, before glancing at the readers, "Sorry guys, this part gets un-pinkie like. Talk to Spark and Twilight." With that she turned the scene black.
Twilight: Wait...PINKIE!
Spark: *glances up from story notes* What the buck? who called for the commercial break?
Twilight: Pinkie...apparently.
Spark: ......but...wait you're...and she...*scratches head* who the heck is controlling this frigging story?
Twilight: She breaks the fourth wall on a daily basis, it doesn't matter who's in control
"Okay is this on?" Pikie asked the scene returning to normal, "Hey guys! Look I got it back!" The party pony grinned showing her necklace before turning and trotting away |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | pre | "We went along with it." Zuko reminded him, punching another clone in the throat. Rorke scoffed.
"Mordecai and you went along with it. I never did."
"You didn't try and stop it, dumbass. Now shut up and help me think of a way out of this mess."
"For once Zuko's not talking out his arse." Lorkhan pushed his way through the throng, strangling two Changelings in his Mechatendrils. He tightened his grip with the whip-like appendages, cracking both necks. The Warsmith looked at his two Champions, the half of his helmet that was a skull's grin seeming strangely appropriate in this scene of wanton destruction.
"For once we're not losing." He pointed out. Zuko tilted his head slightly as if conceding the point. Rorke just spat.
"We still need to get out of here, sir. Do you actually have a plan this time?" Lorkhan now turned to look at Rorke as the Champion asked the question, the Warsmith folding his arms as his subordinates dropped two enemies.
"Not quite yet, Rorke. How the hell are there so many of these bastards anyway? Surely this room can't hold them all?"
"I think it's safe to assume that they're coming from outside as well, lord." Zuko sounded distracted. Lorkhan's idle musings were hardly his greatest concern at the moment. The Warsmith shrugged, as if that satisfied his passing curiosity. Completely ignoring the combat that was raging around him, he rubbed his armoured forehead in aggravation, the heads of his Mechatendrils hovering around his ears as if whispering their secrets to him.
Another Changeling flew at Lorkhan, screeching and with fangs bared. Leaning his weight backwards, the Warsmith caught it under the chin with a brutal uppercut. It sailed away gurgling as it tried to draw in breath through its shattered throat. Shaking off the Xenos residue from his fist, Lorkhan looked along the path from which his adversary had come. The hole in the wall caused by the Changeling's arrival was still open and raw, the wind picking up through the gaping wound. Sunlight reflected off the Warsmith's helmet as inspiration dawned.
"Outside." He whispered. Zuko and Rorke heard him, and followed his gaze out the hole. Zuko stared for a moment, before giving a tired sigh and cupping his faceplate in both hands, shaking his head slightly. The blood had completely drained from Rorke's face.
"Lorkhan, please tell me this is a joke." The Warsmith looked at Rorke, his amusement at the Champion's annoyance clear. "Lorkhan, no, you cannot be serious."
"Mordecai." Lorkhan spoke over the vox. Moments later the sorcerer emerged from the crowd. He sounded breathless, the strain of constant psychic channelling taking its toll.
"Lord..." he gasped. Behind the four, another Iron Warrior was tackled to the ground, his throat smashed by the boot heels of his duplicate.
"I need an honest answer, Mord. Can you do that for once in your life?"
"I'm offended, I've never been anything but honest with you in my life Lorkhan."
The Warsmith didn't speak, merely pointing at the opening. Mordecai followed his finger for a moment, not comprehending before something clicked. He laughed despite himself.
"Yes, Lorkhan. Almost certainly."
"Almost certainly?"
"I'd wager 95% likelihood."
"But there's still a 5% chance."
"Well...yes, quite."
"Alrighty then." The Warsmith looked back at the hole, red optics seeming to narrow in concentration despite the impossibility of such a feat. "Allons y." There wasn't a hint of irony in his voice.
He started to run. Mordecai was hot on his heels, trinkets and sorcerous baubles clinking against his armour. Zuko and Rorke for their part tried to run, back into the mass of Changelings where at least their deaths would mean something. The Mechatendrils tied round their legs and sent them crashing into the ground. Lorkhan didn't break stride as he continued to run, his Champions dragged behind him on their bellies as they desperately tried to break free.
They reached the edge quickly. The Obliterators covered their retreat, still pouring out masses of Cannon fire. The tower of the Castle stretched up high into the sky, raising hundreds of metres above the city. Even from here though, the sounds of battle and screams could be heard emanating from the streets below, and smoke rose from those houses savaged by vengeful Changeling marauders.
Another Legion might have considered another way. Another company could have to fight their way through. Another Captain could have stopped them getting into this situation in the first place.
Without even slowing down, or listening to the still trapped Zuko and Rorke's howls of protest, the Iron Warriors Thirteenth grand company jumped out the window. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Rock-em Sock-em Renegades | It took all of Rarity's determination, as well as a little bit of fear, to keep her moving forwards. After recovering Sweetie Belle, she'd been running as fast as her legs could carry her ever since those ghastly brutes had broken out from their incarceration at the Castle and begun fighting back against Celestia's troops. That had already stressed Rarity out to such a degree that, assuming she got through this, she just KNEW there'd be wrinkles on wrinkles. Coupled with the Changeling's return, whom for all the unicorn knew could be working with the 'Iron Warriors'...well, of all the worst possible things, Rarity considered it the worst possible thing.
Beside her, Rarity could see her friends Pinkie and Applejack running alongside her. The athletic farmer Pony showed little obvious signs of physical distress, although looking into her eyes Rarity could see worry, confusion and fear. To the right, Pinkie Pie bounced along as fast as she could. She didn't seem as obviously concerned as Applejack, but Rarity knew the party pony well enough to know when something was frightening her. No songs to 'giggle at the ghosties' this time, like when they'd first met. Rarity doubted that laughing at the Iron Warriors would have any greater effect than making them angrier.
Rainbow Dash had taken to the sky earlier, along with Fluttershy. Rarity wasn't sure whether her shy friend was still around, but Rainbow had been taking the battle to the Changelings in the sky. Her words earlier about executing the Iron Warriors came back to Rarity-at the time, she'd been shocked by them, but now she couldn't help but feel that Rainbow Dash had a point. Before she could consider this any further a stray thought wandered into her head, almost bringing her skidding to a halt; where was Spikey-wikey? Rarity had a look around, expecting to see him running close to her in a darling little effort to protect her, but twilight's assistant was nowhere to be seen. Panic overtook her, and for a second she considered turning back to try and find him. It was only reasoning that she was no good to him dead that stopped her.
Rainbow Dash-or something that looked like Rainbow Dash-came hurtling out of the sky at the three running ponies. Before, at the wedding when they first encountered these foul creatures, the Elements might have been duped by it; but now, they were ready for any sign of deception. Applejack leapt and turned in mid-air, delivering a devastating kick with her strong hind legs to the Changeling. Its head cracked back as the disguise melted away, and the black monster fell to the ground unmoving. The ponies didn't let themselves slow down, running towards the train station. Swarms of Changelings were buzzing through the air and tearing apart Canterlot's buildings under their mass, but it was still possible to get everyone out on the trains if the guards could hold out just a little longer.
Three more Changelings, these not bothering to hide their true forms, attempted to block off the end of the street. They span round as the three friends ran towards them, hissing and baring their fangs. Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie sprang towards them, not giving them time to disguise themselves. A serious of-to Rarity's eyes, exceedingly uncouth-hoof blows left the shape shifters in a heap.
"Come on gals, jus' a little more!" Applejack called, putting her head down and holding onto her hat to allow her greater speed. Rarity pushed herself even more. Ugh, all this sweating is going to just RUIN my mane she grumbled internally, before chiding herself for such childish moaning. At the very least, the Changelings seemed to be concentrating more and more of their forces on the castle, giving the Element bearers a little more breathing room.
A second thought crossed her mind, another sense of something missing. This time, she couldn't help herself as the horror seeped into her mind. Her legs went rigid, freezing Rarity in place as the sounds of screams and battle echoed all around. Breathing did not come easily, every inhale short and ragged. She could feel herself shaking slightly as terror rose again. The other two stopped, turning and looking at her with a mix of shock, fear and-at least in Applejack's case-anger.
"Come on Rarity, this is no tahm for bein' a drama queen!" she shouted in frustration. Rarity just looked at her, seemingly whiter and paler than usual. When she did speak, it was little more than an emotion-choked whisper.
"Where's Sweetie Belle?"
"Do you even actually know where we're going?"
Scootaloo didn't bother answering as she navigated the scooter through Canterlot's streets. The Crusaders had managed to acquire it from a store they'd ran past that had had its windows smashed in. Scootaloo vaguely remembered Rainbow Dash once telling her that doing things like that was 'looting', or something, but as far as she was concerned she reckoned that her idol would cut her some slack this one time. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle had managed to squeeze on the back, hooves wrapped around Scootaloo's waist for stability-it was a tight fit, the other two fillies usually being transported in a small cart behind, but although they were almost thrown off at a number of corners fear gave them the strength they needed to hold on.
"Well? Do yah?" It was Applebloom asking the question, Sweetie Belle electing to stay quiet and let Scootaloo concentrate. The Pegasus cast an irritated glance backward, expertly navigating their small transport around a piece of debris that had come to rest in the middle of the road.
"I think ANYWHERE'S better than here right now, AB."
The Earth Pony didn't look convinced, grimacing as her head was snapped forward painfully as the scooter jerked over a newly created pothole.
"Shouldn't we be tryin' tah find Rainbow Dash, or mah sister, or someone like that?" No sooner had she said it, a bolt of blue sailed overhead, crashing into some hovering Changelings and knocking them down to earth with a crash. Despite herself, Scootaloo let her jaw drop in admiration, the gust of wind Rainbow Dash's flyby had created cooling some of the sweat that had beaded across her brow.
"They've probably got bigger problems right now!" She called back as she accelerated, Sweetie Belle making a noise that sounded like she was about to hurl. Scootaloo decided that her friend's queasy stomach was a problem for later-right now; she just wanted to escape this battle zone intact.
After those strange metal things, or whatever they were-nobody had told Scootaloo exactly what was going on-had broken free and started fighting the guard, the Cutie Mark Crusaders had along with the other Ponies managed to evacuate the throne room more or less unharmed. Initially they'd stuck close to Applejack and Rarity, trusting their big sisters to keep them safe. If the young Pegasus was honest with herself, the whole thing had been a major adrenaline surge that wasn't altogether unpleasant. That had changed when the Changeling's had attacked-Scootaloo remembered the last time they'd encountered the icky bug-things, at the Royal Wedding, and she'd had more than enough of them then. This time though it was far worse; the Changelings didn't seem particularly bothered about taking over Canterlot, rather electing to tear the city to the ground. In the confusion and panic the Crusaders had wound up separated from any sort of authority figures, and had taken it upon themselves to make their own escape.
Despite their youth, even they could see the city was a disaster zone. Buildings and the very street had had chunks blasted out of them by the force of the Changeling's impacts, with some houses and ships being dragged into ruin by sheer weight of numbers. Above their heads, Equestrian royal guard clashed with the Changeling invaders, though for the most part Celestia's warriors were on the back foot. There were already bodies from both sides starting to litter the ground, though Scootaloo tried not to think about them.
Her attention was brought back to the present in a hurry as a Changeling dropped onto the ground in front of them, hissing with sharp teeth bared. Ignoring Applebloom and Sweetie Belle's screams, Scootaloo threw the scooter into a power slide, kicking up grit into the monster's eyes and causing it to screech in frustration at its temporary blindness. She beat her little wings faster, struggling to maintain a grip on their transport as it wobbled almost uncontrollably. She finally managed to force it to straighten out, but she had no time to celebrate as two more Changelings started flying behind the Crusaders, pursuing them furiously.
"Hold on!" Scootaloo called out, slightly unnecessarily. She darted through tight back alleys and round sharp bends, but still they were chased. The Crusaders ducked as another Changeling sailed overhead, taking a small measure of satisfaction as it crashed into the side of a building. All the while their pursuers edged closer and closer, until they were literally snapping at the Ponies' heels. Just when Scootaloo was about to break down from fear, Sweetie Belle finally chose to contribute something.
"Over there!" she cried, gesturing with her hood. Following her friend's arm, Scootaloo saw a strange piece of debris angled skyward in the middle of the street. For a moment it didn't click, but before she could say anything Scootaloo realised what Sweetie Belle was getting at. She grinned, and gave a small nod.
The scooter sped up even more as its pilot pumped her little wings even harder, blinking tears from her eyes and gritting her teeth in effort. In response, the pair of Changelings began to fly faster, unwilling to let their prey escape so easily. Finally reaching the rock Sweetie had pointed out, Scootaloo didn't slow down but just kept going, throwing herself upward as she did so. Applebloom and Sweetie did the same, pushing off the scooter and sailing through the air as they cannoned off the end of their makeshift ramp. But the Changelings couldn't slow down, and with howls of anger they sailed between the Crusaders and the now empty scooter, turning circles far too wide to make going back practical t such speed.
Whilst they'd avoided the immediate danger, it didn't take long for the three fillies to realise their own mistake. Scootaloo reached out for the scooter that was now plummeting towards the ground, but it was in vain. They tumbled head over head through the air, before impacting the cobbles with a hefty thump and skidding along the ground, finally coming to rest in a jumbled heap at the foot of a building. For a moment they were too dazed and confused to move, before finally they managed to pick themselves up and shake away the stars dancing before their eyes.
"...yeah, remind me not to follow Sweetie Belle's advice in future near-death situations." Scootaloo said sarcastically. Sweetie just pouted.
"Well, at least we got away." Applebloom interjected, eager to avoid an argument now. "Come on, we can't be far from the station, maybe we can get a train back tah Ponyville or somethin'"
As the Crusaders turned to run, a shadow loomed over them. They looked round in terror, backing away and closer together as they did so. The Changeling slowly descended to the ground, empty blue eyes showing the three fillies their own frightened reflections. It grinned as it advanced, slowly and menacingly like a predator taking sadistic pleasure in the last moments of an animal it knew couldn't get away.
Scootaloo quickly glanced at her two friends-they were both shaking, eyes wracked with terror. She tried to put on her best war face, to show this monster that she wasn't afraid of it, but in truth she knew that she must look just as bad as the other two. She'd never thought it'd end like this. It would always have been something more...awesome. Something amazing, not being murdered by an animal in the streets of Canterlot. And of course, Rainbow Dash would be there. That was what hurt the most-the fact that Rainbow Dash couldn't save them. Scootaloo would never get to tell her how much she meant to her, how much she inspired and gaze Scootaloo hope.
"Girls..." It was Sweetie Belle. Far be it from the loud screams Scootaloo had expected, her voice was barely above a whisper, and choked with emotion. "Do you think we'll get our Cutie Marks in being best friends?"
The simple honesty of the words broke the dam Scoots had erected inside. The tears flowed down her cheek slowly, each one of them glistening in the afternoon sun. She wrapped her hooves around those of her friends as the Changeling advanced, the display of togetherness more meaningful than any words. There was a strange, rhythmic banging hammering away at the edge of her consciousness-Scootaloo dismissed it as her heart. Despite herself, she smiled.
"Yeah...you girls are awesome."
She breathed out slowly and waited for the blow. Memories flooded back to her-flight school, meeting Applebloom and Sweetie Belle at Diamond Tiara's Cutesinera, forming the Cutie Mark Crusaders, the talent show, the sleepover at Fluttershy's...it was all going to be gone. It had been good though. She heard the Changeling coiling for an attack, and tried to make a brave face. The banging, whatever it had been, suddenly stopped.
Scootaloo's eyes snapped open as the second dark shape sailed overhead.
They'd fallen like stars from heaven, angry gods of the firmament bringing their wrath to the mortals below. Lorkhan had released his hold on Zuko and Rorke as soon as they were free falling-complainers by nature though they might be, their sense of self-preservation was far stronger.
For a couple of seconds they'd just dropped, speeding up with every moment and feeling the wind whipping past them. They hugged close to the Castle's wall, bodies angled feet first. Looking to his right, Lorkhan saw Mordecai, his skirt blowing upwards and revealing his silver coloured greaves. Parchment ripped from his armour, carried away by the force of the updraft. To the Warsmith's right was Zuko; although the wind made hearing anything difficult, even over the vox, Lorkhan was pretty sure his Champion was swearing.
After falling for about ten seconds, and still a fair way up the castle's sheer wall, the Iron Warriors deemed it time to slow their descent. They punched one gauntlet into the wall, easily smashing through the stone and digging their armoured fingers in to try and catch on to some handgrip. Pieces of masonry flew back as they grabbed on, dust and rock clanking off power armour. They still fell, but constantly smashing through brickwork with one hand brought more and more resistance force into play. Not all of them made it; Lorkhan saw a piece of jutting rock that brother Vortax had attempted to grab onto come loose. He flailed around in an attempt to restart his slide, but he found no purchased and with a scream fell down and down, disappearing into the streets below. The Warsmith shook his head as he grabbed tighter onto the wall. Idiot.
Eventually, they had slowed enough so as to nearly have stopped, still dangling a considerable way above ground level. They pushed off the wall with their legs, turning round in the air and throwing their arms back, giving the impression of great apes leaping through the treetops of ancient Terra. They sailed through the air, before crashing down onto nearby rooftops of what the Iron Warriors assumed must be the habitation for the Xenos of this city. Thirteen pairs of power armoured boots landed on one, leaving irreparable cracks in the roof tiling, whilst twelve more crashed down on the identical house across the street. Lorkhan rose from his crouched landing position back to his full height, Mechatendrils snapping at the air in excitement.
"Not the most conventional deep strike method, but it'll do."
The Obliterators had not followed the rest of the Grand Company to the window, initially staying behind to hold off the mass of bug-like aliens in the throne room. Seeing that their brothers had more or less landed in one piece, Vortun's warriors decided it was their turn to leave. They stepped backwards and just tumbled through the sky, accelerating rapidly like huge black comets. Their 'unique' biology meant they weren't able to grapple onto the wall, and for a moment Lorkhan wondered whether they were going to end up as warp-tainted paste smearing the ground alongside Vortax.
His concern was dispelled as Mordecai stepped to the edge of the roof, watching the Obliterator's fall. The Telekine extended a hand, curling his fingers into claws. Immediately the cult's descent slowed invisible energy acting as a counter to gravity's press. Mordecai gave a grunt of pain as his fingers twisted uncomfortably, and for once Lorkhan didn't mock him-it must have taken considerable psychic force to slow down such heavy objects. Finally, the Obliterators touched down on the streets far below the rest of the Iron Warriors. Their impacts made considerable shockwave, blowing both bug and guard pony backwards. Without a moments delay Vortun and his brothers began to blast out great streams of flame from their newly morphed heavy flamers. The stink of burning flesh could be smelt even high above.
"At least someone's having fun." Lorkhan muttered. Behind him, Mordecai sagged slightly, breathing heavily as the exertion manifesting such power required took. Zuko moved to support him, earning a nod of thanks from the Sorcerer.
The Iron Warriors didn't bother debating their next course of action. They'd managed to escape custody, and whilst they still didn't have their weapons, the unspoken consensus seemed to be that they'd be better served retreating to the wreck of their ship and then launching a counter-attack. The buildings they'd landed on seemed to be some kind of high rise apartment block, with smaller housing below. Fighting between the two Pony races was going on in the air and the streets, but as far as the Iron Warriors were concerned as long as they got through to their objective, everyone was an enemy.
They started to run, armoured footfalls causing more cracks to appear across the roof tiling. They bludgeoned their way through any Pony or Changeling they came across, trusting more to brute strength than battle skill. On the other rooftop, Lorkhan saw Rorke dropkick a dazed Changeling's head off, snapping the neck clean in half. He couldn't help a feral grin covering what was left of his organic face.
Lorkhan's group leapt down another storey or two, splitting off as they crashed onto the smaller house's roof. Mordecai and about five other Iron Warriors followed Lorkhan; two more peeled to the right, whilst Zuko and two others went left. They dropped into the streets and began carving their way through Xenos soldier and frightened civilian. Blood caked their armour as it spurted from torn flesh, and although such rampant violence was at odds with the typical controlled aggression of the IV Legion, it did give Lorkhan a sense of righteous vindication.
"Zuko."
"Lord." The Champion's reply was curt, the sounds of the dying carried plainly over the vox. Lorkhan shook his head slightly in amusement as he run; they hadn't died. Zuko was wrong. He was probably never going to live this down-not if Lorkhan could help it, anyway.
"Do you see a way out of the city?" The Warsmith asked. There was no reply for a moment, before a confirmation rune blipped on Lorkhan's optical display.
"Yes, there's a single bridge that seems to lead out to surrounding countryside. We could try the mountains I guess, but we would have to navigate the gorge between here and there."
"Affirmative. I'll patch co-ordinates to all brothers and we'll rendezvous there."
"Rorke's helmet is broken, sir. He may not get the message"
"And?"
"Lorkhan."
The Warsmith sighed, stooping down to pick up a rock as he did so. He hurled it through the air with pinpoint accuracy and considerable force, striking one of the armoured Pony xenoforms in the head and causing it to crash into the street as the rock exited the rear of its skull. "Oh, fine then if you're going to get whingey about it. I'll get Kravix to babysit Rorke." Lorkhan didn't wait for the reply, closing off the vox link.
Behind him, Mordecai sped up his jog, coming to run parallel with Lorkhan. "Lord, far be it from me to question your flawless command, but I do believe you've made a rather considerable oversi-one moment, please."
The Changeling dived at Lorkhan from behind, screaming and howling. Lorkhan heard it and begun to swing round to give it a right hook to the jaw. Mordecai had already seen it; he shot an arm out, palm open, before swiftly contracting his hand into a fist. The Changeling exploded in mid-air, green blood and chunks of black flesh raining down. The sorcerer watched his handiwork fall, seemingly quite satisfied, before turning back to the other Iron Warrior.
"As I was explaining, before we were so rudely interrupted, whilst your plan is deserving of merit I would not feel comfortable within myself if I were not to offer slight critique."
"You know Mordecai, you have an amazing ability to talk a hell of a lot, and have all of it be utter shit." Lorkhan grunted. Far from being perturbed, the Psyker seemed to take this as his cue to continue.
"Whilst we were incarcerated in that ghastly castle, I took the liberty of taking a look out the window whilst you and Rorke explained in great detail to our equine friends why we should not have left that room alive. From recollection, I do believe that the exit you described to Zuko was built primarily to serve as a hub for these Xenos' primitive locomotive service."
Lorkhan just stared at him for a moment. "So...you're saying it's a train station?"
"I believe so."
"And why is that a bad thing?"
"Well, sir, it stands to reason that if we are strategizing to make our escape via that exit then these panicked Xenos-crude minds though they may possess-will reach the same conclusion."
"Again, I'm not seeing the problem here."
"Put simply; there will be a mob, Lorkhan. This will hamper our exit strategy in a way that could prevent it success, and even if we do get out we may well become separated."
"We can kill our way through."
"I fear you're not seeing my point, sir."
"I fear you're a fucking idiot, Mordecai, and all these rainbows and sunshine have finally made your brain snapped."
For a second, the two merely stared at one another. The Iron Warriors who had been running with them, for the most part finishing off their own kills, turned to watch them-this display of tension far more entertaining in this brief moment than the fairly unchallenging slaughter. After a while, Mordecai drew breath to speak again, when they were both distracted by the sound of something large and unpleasant landing a few hundred metres down the road. They turned to look at it. Mordecai swore, his voice still quiet and polite.
Corrupted magic shot from the tip of a black horn. It struck one of the Iron Warriors square in the chest, blasting him back in a dark alleyway. The Queen of the Changelings faced down the few Astartes that stood in her path, blowing the smoke from the end of her horn. Behind her, at least fifty Changelings hovered on their insect like wings, filling the air with a horrible droning. A tower loomed over the street, bedecked in stars and swirls and a golden roof that seemed to contain an observatory. The Xenos swarmed over that too, giving off a chittering that further reminded Lorkhan of the Tyranids.
"I must say, you're surprisingly effective killing machines my friends, whatever you are." She said, flashing a fanged smile. "The fact that now the ride has to end for you saddens me a little-you would have been more than satisfactory allies as we grind this pathetic kingdom under our hooves." She turned her head to the side, feigning an air of disappointment. "Alas...you have no love to drain. You don't, it would appear, care about anything. You're no good as food, and I highly doubt we'd last long in a military conjunction without one side betraying the other, so dying really does seem to be the only option left to you."
"Wait!" The Warsmith raised a hand, causing Mordecai to look at him in mild surprise. "That's not true! We can be valuable to you. We like lots of things."
The Changeling Queen raised an eyebrow and smiled, her amusement and incredulousness both written plainly across her face. "Such as?"
"We like...erm...we like..." Lorkhan rubbed his hands together idly as he wracked his brain to think of something-anything-the thirteenth company didn't hate. Beside him, Mordecai had placed both palms over his faceplate, shaking his head slowly and sadly. "We like...We like the Gods!...no, actually, not really...erm...we like revenge? Well...no, we wouldn't have chosen this life, if I'm being honest...come on there must be something, what about...no, we hate that....oh, how about....no, we hate that as well...erm..." he looked up finally, seemingly in defeat. "You know what, fuck it, you probably are going to have to kill us."
The Queen looked at the ground, smiling even wider and chuckling to herself. "Well, if you insist." Her smile dropped, all trace of levity suddenly gone as she addressed her subjects.
"Get them."
"Oh, fine then if you're going to get whingey about it. I'll get Kravix to babysit Rorke."
"He may be a dickhead, but I'm sure Rorke can look after himself. I was only saying that-"
The link was dead. Zuko gave a growl of frustration as he ran-classic Lorkhan, right there. Sometimes, Zuko regretted dragging him out of the wreckage the Raven Guard had made back during the War.
Zuko and Barbus ran side by side, leaping from rooftop to rooftop with considerable ease. Basikor had broken off a while back, taking an alternate route down on the streets. In truth Zuko didn't give a shit about what exactly had happened to him, provided he didn't do something that got them all killed.
"What do you reckon the plan is?" Barbus asked as they jumped. Zuko grunted.
"Is now the really the best time, brother?"
"Just trying to make conversation."
He had a point.
"If you want my opinion, first we break out of here. Then we go back to the ship, before launching a counter-attack to get our weapons back."
"And then?"
"We murder every living thing on this Gods-forsaken planet."
"Fair enough." They ran on a brief while before he spoke up again. "So how exactly are we getting of this world."
Zuko stopped almost in mid-air. He crashed into the next roof, sending tiles flying under his weight. Barbus skidded to a stop, looking at him with a mixture of disgust and concern.
It was...it was a damn good question. How were they going to get off this planet? Their ship was the wrong side of useless, and in all the years Zuko had known him, Mordecai had never displayed any sort of psychic power that allowed teleportation. They could always beseech the Gods, but...well; this place hardly seemed strong in the powers of Chaos. The question stuck in Zuko's mind and stuck fast. No matter how hard he fought to dislodge it, it hung there like a splinter.
He looked around almost in a daze. A couple of metres away, on ground level, there was one of the Changelings menacing some unseen enemy. Whatever that enemy had been was probably already half-dead, Zuko reflected, but just looking at the Xenos monster made the Iron Warrior's choler rise. His hands bunched into fists. He began to take steps towards it.
"Zuko?" Barbus placed a gauntlet on the Champion's pauldron. Zuko shrugged it off, not looking back.
"Go on ahead, I'll catch up. I just really need to go and kill that thing."
"Brother..."
"Go, Barbus."
The other Iron Warrior turned, and kept running, dropping to street level. Zuko glared at the Changeling for a moment more, before starting to run. His boots made heavy footfalls in the roof tiling, a rhythmic banging caused by his movement. It still hadn't noticed him. Whatever it was after, it was obviously a tempting target. He reached the lip of the building, rage now burning inside him like the Eighteenth Legion's furnaces. He stopped running. The Changeling coiled to attack. He jumped.
A dark shape sailed at the Changeling from above, causing it to snap out of its attack and look up in fear and surprise. Zuko gave it no time to react, slamming into it feet first. His mass and velocity did all the work, reducing the Xenos to nothing but paste smeared along the ground. Landing in a crouch atop his foe's remains, Zuko punched straight through what was left of its skull. The monster was already dead, but it sure as hell made him feel better.
He straightened, looking down at the mangled body. Memories flashed back-strangling a warrior in black war plate on the fields of Istvaan. He couldn't remember if it was a Raven Guard or an Iron Hand. It had been the first time Zuko had spilled another Legionaries' blood. Back then the war had mattered. It had felt...not right, never right, but like he was accomplishing something. They hadn't lost yet, Zuko supposed. He'd still hoped they would make the galaxy a better place. He'd still thought that was that bastard Horus had wanted.
Looking down at the body, Zuko tried to feel that pride again. All he felt now was cold burning disgust.
"You...you saved us."
Zuko turned sharply, dropping into a combat stance. Three small ponies were cowering in the shadow of the house; they must have been what the Changeling was going after, Zuko reasoned. The one in front, the one that had spoken, was orange with tiny wings. From her body language she seemed nervous, but also awed by him. The second was yellow with a red bow. She too seemed more curious than scared. The last one, white with purple hair, stayed at the back. She only tentatively moved, not bothering to hide her fear.
"That was awesome!" The orange one said. "Gross, but, awesome!"
"Yeah, and you gahs don't look like Changelings. So...ah' you on our sahd?" The yellow one asked.
"You saw them back at the castle, Applebloom! Did they look like they were on our side?" That was the white one now, her voice cracking and squeaky in fright. For his part, Zuko couldn't help but stare at them in incredulity. Did they really think that he might be on their side? Oh shit...oh shit, they really did. That was hilarious. For the first time in decades, Zuko nearly laughed.
"'Ah know Sweetie Belle, ah saw it too. But these gahs are pushin' the Changelings back pretty darn quickly." The yellow one replied, not a trace of irony in her voice.
"Yeah, plus they look pretty awesome! Their cutie marks are a helmet or something!" The orange one piped, face creasing in a wide grin. Zuko didn't move or say anything, unsure of how to actually respond to that-the fact that they'd referred to the iron helmet of the IV Legio Astartes, the cold skull feared across the length and breadth of humanities' galactic empire and the harbinger of inevitable violent death, as a 'cutie mark' had sort of left him reeling. "What's your special talent?" she asked, seemingly genuinely interested.
"It's probably something to do with scarin' everypony-ah mean, it is kinda' frightnin'." The yellow one said. Her peculiar accent was starting to grate.
"No, it looks more like something from a skull and crossbones. You know, like those pirates that we learned about with Ms Cheerilee used." The white one said. Her voice still quivered slightly, but now that she had something to distract her it sounded more absent-minded than anything.
"So, they're like, really overdressed pirates?" the orange one asked. She looked unconvinced.
"Well, they're hardly privateers."
"Wuts ah' priv-ee-tahr?" the yellow one said. Yep, that accent was DEFINITELY more irritating than it was a few moments ago.
"It's like a licenced pirate. You know, like a police-pony, but for water."
"I don't think they're pirates, Sweetie Belle." The orange one said. Zuko wasn't sure whether to agree with her or not, considering her argument was based on his attire.
"They are too!"
"Nuh uh!"
"Yeah haw!"
"Nuh uh!"
"Yeah haw!"
"Nuh uh!"
"Yeah haw!"
This was too much. As the two small Xenos still bickered, Zuko tensed a leg and started bringing it back to drop kick them into orbit. They didn't seem to notice, and Zuko was about to turn them into mush when Barbus' voice crackled into life across the vox.
"Zuko, wherever you are, drop what you're doing and converge on my position. Lorkhan's gone and got himself in a spot of bother."
"In a minute, Barbus."
"Now, Zuko."
"Please let me kick these little bastards."
"Boss..."
"ugh...fine..." Zuko practically growled the world, sighing in frustration as he lowered his foot. The Ponies still weren't paying attention to him, caught up in their infantile argument. For a moment, Zuko considered flattening them anyway, before deciding that the Warsmith needed all the help he could get. He turned and began to sprint back to the main road and towards Barbus' co-ordinates.
"Hey, where yah going?!" The yellow one called out. Zuko didn't look back.
Away from you was all he could think.
Lorkhan ducked the bolt of dark energy, punching through the chest of another Changeling. He grabbed the heart in his fist and pulled with all his strength. It ripped clean away, still pulsing slightly. The Changeling coughed up a little blood, seemingly not comprehending what had just happened, before dropping to the ground. Lorkhan chucked the organ away nonchalantly, returning his attention to the battle at hand.
It wasn't looking good. Even with the Iron Warrior's considerable advantage in terms of individual skill, the sheer number of their enemies was presenting a problem, not to mention the fact that their Queen had elected to join the fight proper. Their ability to change shape was also starting to have an effect in the swirling melee, some Iron Warriors struck down by Astartes they thought were their brothers. He'd lost sight of Mordecai early on, but didn't believe luck would smile on him today and let the Sorcerer die.
The smell of smoke and burning flesh through his helmet's skull-shaped grille brought Lorkhan a moment of satisfaction, heart rising only a fraction as he realised that Vortun must have entered the battle. All the Iron Warriors in the Company had been called to make their stand here, and those that remained were leaping into the brawl from rooftops of side-streets. Lorkhan saw Zuko sprint out of a small alleyway, clothes-lining two hovering Changelings and snapping their necks. As for the Obliterators, they stomped into the field of war screaming chants of corrupted binary and spewing out great balls of plasma. Two of them scattered, yet the final one did hit two of the monstrosities, reducing them to ash.
Another Iron Warrior fell beside Lorkhan, his throat ripped out by a Changeling. Lorkhan grabbed the creature and brought its back down over his knee and snapping the spine clean in half. Tossing the corpse away, he almost yelped involuntarily as he pirouetted out of the way of a laser blast. The Changeling Queen glared down at him, insect-like wings beating furiously. She unleashed another beam, Lorkhan dodging to the side again. For all his agility, Lorkhan knew that eventually he'd slip up, and that would probably lead to him dying in a way that was hilarious to his subordinates but unfortunate for him. Three more Xenos jumped on him. He beat them off with his Mecha-tendrils, breathing heavily. Blood of the Gods, just how many of these things were there?
"Vortun." He hissed over the vox.
"Ja, mein kapitan?"
"Do something"
"Fein." The Obliterators lumbered their way to the front of the fight, power fists swatting the enemy away like flies. They formed a rough firing line as they took aim at the Queen, arms morphing to take the form of Multi-Meltas. Lorkhan turned his head to watch in hope, not bothering to look at the Changeling he was strangling.
The first beam fired.
The Queen darted to the side, the buzzing sound getting worse as she flapped harder. The beam of molten energy sailed into the air struck nothing.
The second beam fired.
She darted aside again, in front of the tower that loomed over the street. In response, another beam of dark energy shot forth from her horn. It struck the Obliterator that had fired in the chest, causing him to stagger back and grunt in pain.
Vortun closed one eye, breathed out, and fired. "Hit it, Vortun!" Lorkhan screamed.
For a single moment, it looked like the bolt would hit, atomizing the vile Xenos. Just when the Warsmith dared to believe, she fell into a straight dive, smashing down into the floor and gouging a small crater in the flagstones. The Multi-Melta beam glanced into the tower, reducing the stones that made up part of the wall to nothing but molten slag. It stood like a tree that had had half the trunk cut away, leaning slightly from side to side unsteadily.
The Changeling gave a hideous, mocking laugh. "Really? Is that the best you can do, a couple of bumbling oafs spewing out fire power any which way? My dear sir, if that is the case then I fear my earlier praise may be very much misjudged." Lorkhan could only sag his shoulders. The Multi-Melta beams would take a while to recharge, and in that time they'd be swarmed again-rendering the Obliterator's guns worthless. He let out the breath he'd been holding. It wasn't supposed to end like this, not to some pastel coloured ponies and their fucked-up cousins. He'd wanted to do more. Punch Rorke in the face one last time, for a start.
Behind his helmet, he gave the best steely expression he could. If this was the end, for once he'd do one thing right and die like an Iron Warrior. He took a few steps forward, fists balled, when a heavy claw on his shoulder stopped him. He looked round in confusion. Vortun had placed his power fist on his shoulder, gripping tightly. What was left of the Obliterator's face, that which hadn't been corrupted by the virus, was twisted in what could only be described as a knowing grin.
"Vait for it." Was all he said. Lorkhan turned back to stare at the Queen, not comprehending what the Obliterator meant.
Then he saw it.
The tower that had been struck and had half of its support blasted away by the errant Melta-beam swung slightly in the breeze, groaning slightly as its tortured structural elements struggled to keep it upright. It leaned away from the wide street, threatening to fall onto what looked like some shops for the Xenos, before it tilted back the other way. The wooden beams inside cracked. Stone crashed down onto stone. It began...it began to fall.
It almost seemed to go in slow-motion. The angle was too perfect. It had to be engineered; there was no way in hell that this was happening. Lorkhan didn't move. He didn't even turn away to shield himself. He just stood there, staring open mouthed as the top half of the tower fell towards the ground.
"What have you done, Vortun?" was all he could ask. His voice was barely above a whisper.
Still it fell, further and further towards the ground. The Changelings noticed, heard it coming, heard it croaking and screaming as it fell. Many of them fled, flying away and chittering in fear. But the Queen was too caught up in her victory and gloating to notice. The sky grew darker as the shadow of the falling tower passed over her, but still she didn't move. The ecstasy of this revenge seemed almost too much. Finally, as the sun was blocked out almost completely for her, she looked up. Her momentary confusion as to where many of her subjects had gone quickly distorted; for a single second, Lorkhan registered a look of absolute horror on her face as he realised she could not run. She started to say something, tried to back away and run.
She never finished.
The tower crashed down with an almighty roar. The shockwave blew Lorkhan back slightly, and this time he did shield his eyes as the dust was blasted against his armour. Only the Obliterators stood firm. When he looked back, the tower lay in a broken heap of masonry, blocking off the other half of the street. Bricks and debris lay everywhere, both from the toppled structure itself and those houses it had crashed into as it hit the ground. Many Changelings still hovered and stood around, gazing at the shattered tower in incomprehension. But of the Queen, there was no sign.
Nobody spoke. Nobody moved. Xenos or Iron Warrior, they just stared. Lorkhan didn't know what he even could say, he didn't believe what he'd just seen was real. Of course, it was Vortun that broke the silence.
"Ka-boom."
The vox exploded. Laughter, howls of laughter, echoed around the street. Even Mordecai was giggling profusely. Rorke was almost on the ground, clutching his sides. Only Zuko still stared forward in shock. Lorkhan fell onto his back, unable to stop the stream of laughter that came from him. He rolled slightly, trying desperately to get back up and yet breaking down into hysterics every time he did so. In the back of his mind, he was concerned the Changelings might attack in a frenzy, but blinking away the tears he saw that there was little danger of that. The Xenos were still staring at the collapsed building in shock. With the loss of their leader, that was starting to convert to fear.
Lorkhan unsteadily rose to his feet, still chuckling a little and turning to look at the Changeling masses. The other Iron Warriors, as one, fell into a large group behind him, flexing their fists or folding their arms. Despite the situation, Lorkhan felt a brief flicker of pride in his men. They were together as a Company-that was rare to say the least. The Changelings turned to look at the Iron Warriors. Lorkhan could have sworn some of them gulped.
"This is the part," the Warsmith said, tilting his head to the side slightly and putting on his friendliest voice "where you run away."
And they did. As one, they turned and fled like they were being paid to do it. None of them even tried to fight back, the hordes taking to the skies in great droning masses. The black clouds flew into the sky, making for the horizon as quickly as possible. The few that hadn't been in the mass brawl still answered the call to flee, rising into the sky with their brothers. In a few minutes, they were reaching the skyline, far away and no more harmful than a flock of birds. The Iron Warriors watched them go in silence, none seeking to tarnish their victory with idle wounds. Lorkhan thought he saw Barbus wave slightly from the corner of his eye.
"Well...I do believe that was a rather successful jaunt, gentlemen." Lorkhan could almost hear Mordecai's breathless grin. For once, the Warsmith didn't begrudge him it in the slightest.
Finally, the group broke up and turned away, milling about seemingly unsure of what to do. Some of them started to move towards their brother's corpses. There were no specialist apothecary's in the thirteenth company, but Lorkhan knew that at least a few were trained to extract gene-seed. They'd done it before in any case.
Before any general plan could be made, a flash of light broke the brief calm that had descended. The Iron Warriors fell back into a circle, already seeing where this was going. The Obliterators primed their weapons.
The Ponies manifested around them cutting off their escape, spears lowered and fire in their eyes. They looked tired and ragged, armour beat and bent and bodies riddled with blood, cuts and scars. But the few that remained still stood, looking ready to unleash their anger in a moment. Lorkhan was almost impressed. A few hovered in the sky, spears still lowered. They were joined by a blue winged pony with rainbow coloured hair, and the yellow one that had run off crying earlier. The blue one had her hooves raised in a fighting stance, and an expression of absolute fury covering her face, whilst the yellow one tried to hide behind one of the Guards. Lorkhan knew where this was going, turning towards where the flash had originated from and being completely un-surprised with what he saw.
The Pony princesses stood there, White and blue, expressions cold and disdainful. They were joined by five others-the purple unicorn that had asked some questions during the 'trial', an orange pony with a hat, a pink one that for some reason was smiling, a white one with blue hair that looked nearly as angry as the rainbow dick, and the Guard Captain Zuko had duelled with earlier. They all looked absolutely exhausted, but still ready in a moment to wipe the Iron Warriors off the face of the planet.
"Oh, for the God's sake." Lorkhan heard Rorke mumble.
This was starting to turn into a habit of theirs. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Come the Apocalypse | Twilight blinked away the last effects of the teleportation, breathing heavily in an attempt to quiet her racing heart. No matter how powerful you became in the arts of sorcery, mass teleportation like the Princess had used always caught one off guard.
As the scene around them came into focus, the Unicorn suppressed a gasp of horror. It was a sight of utter devastation. Even from the Princesses' tower-where Twilight and her brother had taken refuge alongside her mentor, Princess Luna and the few Royal Guards that had survived the brawl in the chamber-she had seen the smoke rising and heard the screams and clash of battle echoing up from Canterlot's streets. Down here it was even worse; buildings were little more than rubble, having been dragged down under the weight of Changeling numbers. Streets were fire-blackened, the blazes having started as candles were knocked over or magic used irresponsibly. Twilight grimaced as she realised that her hooves were sticky. Raising her foreleg and looking down at it, she worked to force back her rising vomit as her fear was confirmed; the hoof was matted with dark green blood, just like the street they stood on. She was glad that Spike wasn't here to see this.
The worst was the bodies. They lay strewn about the road, tangled, crumpled and rent apart. Many were missing limbs, or had bones crushed and pulped. The vast majority were Changeling, corpses still bleeding out in great piles where they'd been slain en masse. Those of the Royal Guard were only slightly less numerous, teeth marks alluding to where the Changelings had ripped into them. Less regular were 'Iron Warrior' bodies. It looked like they had been brought down by sheer attrition, clashing with the other invaders. From what Twilight could tell they had not been fighting Ponies; at least, not here. That, if nothing else, was a mark in their favour.
Not that, she guessed, it would help them much. They were standing in a loose circle, the big freaky-looking ones forming a triangle within. Classic defensive tactics, she thought idly. She'd read a book about it once. The Guards that remained had come down all around them, trying to block off their escape. Privately, having seen them in battle in the castle Twilight wasn't certain that they could be stopped. Nervous twinges in her stomach started up, the butterflies dancing back and forth. Looking up, Twilight saw Rainbow hovering with the Guards. It shocked the Unicorn to see her friend's face so twisted with fury and hatred-even at her brashest and most arrogant, this was not the Rainbow Dash she knew. In truth all her friends, as well as the Princesses, seemed to be giving way to hatred. Only Pinkie and Fluttershy acted like themselves.
It's them, Twilight realised, looking at the Iron Warriors. They stared back and all around, fingers twitching in anticipation of violence. Whatever they are, wherever they come from...it's them. Something lingers on them, driving madness into the minds of others. Where the hell have they been? What have they seen, what have they done, to leave them so tainted? She felt both her disgust, and curiosity rise. They looked...they looked tired. Ready to fight, but weary. For all her dislike, Twilight found herself almost pitying them. They hadn't looked like friends back in the Castle chamber. She wondered if they even knew what that word meant.
"What hast thou done?" Princess Luna hissed, to no-one in particular. There was no answer, though the Iron Warriors had clearly heard her. They cast glances amongst one another, either in confusion or...amusement? Surely not. Surely they weren't so stupid as to think this was funny.
"What hast thou done!" Luna screamed, bringing the Canterlot voice back with a fiery vengeance. It echoed around the streets with all the force of pain and loss of a leader who has lost too much too quickly. Celestia was silent, though the white-hot pools of sunlight in her eyes betrayed that she demanded the exact same answers her sibling did. Twilight had never feared Celestia, not honestly feared her. But now...now Twilight shifted uncomfortably, wishing more than anything that today could have just been a normal day.
For a moment there was no response. Then, an infuriatingly polite voice chimed up.
"Pardon me, my Lady...but I do believe we may have inadvertently saved the day."
If the notion was absurd to Twilight, then it was the last straw for Rainbow Dash.
"Saved the day? SAVED THE DAY?! You...most of the city is pretty much destroyed, Ponies are dead, we've had a bucking Changeling INVASION...and you think you 'saved the day'?!" Twilight could see her friend was barely in control of herself. If it wasn't for Fluttershy's presence, and Rainbow's worry for upsetting her sensitive friend further, Twilight wasn't sure she would have been able to hold back.
"Well..." The Iron Warrior leader, Lorkhan or whatever his name was, spoke now. With his tentacles and armour caked in blood, the bumbling figure she'd seen earlier was all of a sudden a lot more menacing. "We did slap the shit into Queen Bug-eyes over there." He pointed over Twilight's shoulder, causing her and the rest of the assembled Ponies to turn. A tower lay collapsed, covering half the road and surrounded by Changeling bodies. Twilight felt her eyes widen as the released dark magic from what was under there became more and more apparent. She couldn't believe that they'd actually done it, that anything could kill Chrysalis. At the same time, she'd always believed in trusting hard evidence.
"Dangerous terrain, faggot." Lorkhan deadpanned, red optics blazing.
"Just one more crime to add to your obituary, daemon." Luna hissed, blue light beginning to envelop her horn as she turned back to face the Iron Warriors. Celestia's horn lit up a moment later, though her face had softened slightly.
"Not Daemons, Princess." The polite one said, bowing his head slightly. "Never that. We were never that worthy."
"Sons of Iron." His voice was no more than a whisper now. In spite of everything, Twilight felt a strange feeling of sympathy jab at her heart. "He never asked for us to be any more."
Lorkhan cast a sideward glance at his subordinate, though Twilight could not discern his expression beneath his helmet. Turning back, he stared at Celestia. Twilight's mentor returned it evenly.
"Wait!"
This new voice was high pitched, sounding out of place in the tense atmosphere that had descended. From out of a side alley, Twilight saw Applebloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle push their way to stand between the Equestrian nobility and Iron Warriors. Applejack and Rarity moved forward a step, but a shake of the head from Celestia stopped them in their tracks. To everyone's surprise, the Cutie Mark Crusaders moved to stand closer to the Iron Warriors, congregating about one's legs. The horned warrior's body language betrayed his embarrassment.
"Ya can't execute 'em! This one saved us from one of tha' Changelin's!" Applebloom called out. Now the rest of the Iron Warrior's turned slowly to look at the one the Filly gestured towards. Twilight could hear a couple of them making noise. Were they...was that snickering?
"Yeah, and they took down the Queen! That was AWESOME!" Scootaloo said, pointing at the downed tower as Lorkhan had done a moment before. The Iron Warriors were still staring at the one Applebloom had singled out. They hardly seemed impressed.
"I didn't mean to." Twilight heard him mumble.
"Scoots, they're the bad guys!" Rainbow Dash said, looking down at her young fan with disbelief. "Look at what they've done to Canterlot! That is NOT awesome, Scoots."
"Maybe they're just scared." The orange Pegasi countered, obviously shaken by having to argue with her idol but not willing to concede the point. "If anypony turned up in a strange place they knew nothing about, surrounded by creatures they'd never seen and then told that they were going to be executed, they might flip out too...n-not that I'd be scared!" She added that last bit hurriedly.
"The Changelings did most of the damage anyway. It's not these guys fault they got caught up in the middle." Sweetie Belle put in. Some of the Iron Warriors were looking at the Cutie Mark Crusaders now, seemingly as bemused as Twilight was as to why the three little Ponies were defending them.
"Sweetie Belle, I cannot believe that you're siding with these brutes over your own kind!" To her left, Twilight heard Rarity call to her sister. The last few words took on a higher pitch, sounding almost whiny.
"Well they did more than any of us!" Sweetie Belle shouted. "If it wasn't for them the Changelings might have won! All you guys did was run away...."
"How dare you! We were running for our lives, what could we possibly have done to fight back?"
"Well I dunno, you're the elements of harmony or something. There must have been something you could have done..."
Applejack's stern voice carried across the conversation. "Alright, that's enough now. AB, Scoots, Sweetie, we understand that you think one of these gahs saved yah. Maybe they did, and if so, then yah have mah thanks. But that don't change the fact that they're bad...whatever it is they are."
"We thought that Babs was bad, and we were wrong 'bout that!" Applebloom said. The other Crusaders began nodding furiously. Twilight saw that the Iron Warriors were looking more confused than ever.
"This ain't tha' same thing, sugacube." Applejack replied, her voice tinged with sorrow.
"Why ain't it? They could be good gahs, if we just gave 'em tha' chance!"
"How can you say that!" To Twilight's surprise it was Fluttershy who cut in now. The Unicorn had quite forgotten her timid friend was here. It seemed Flutters had finally gotten sick of biting her tongue. "They destroy my home, kill poor little Angel, murder all those innocent Ponies, and they won't even admit that they've done something wrong! How dare you side with them!"
The Cutie Mark Crusaders retreated backwards into a small huddle, moving towards an Iron Warrior's legs. Twilight frowned; Fluttershy was usually good with kids, after the whole sleepover incident, and it was rare for her to lose her temper with them like this. Twilight made a mental note to get that Pegasus booked for some sessions with the psychiatrist when all this was done.
"Easy there Fluttershy, we don't wanna condemn tha' littluns for somethin' they ain't done." Applejack's steady voice again. The yellow Pegasus was still fuming, but there were tears of sadness rather than anger forming in her eyes now.
"Just...just get this over with...I mean, if that's okay with you..." She descended to the ground and wiped her face with her hoof, sobbing gently. Luna walked forwards, still glaring at the Iron Warriors with malice burning in her eyes.
"T'would be my pleasure, fair maiden." Her horn began to spark with eldritch blue light again as the power charged.
Iron Warriors brought their fists upon into ready stances. Guards lowered their spears. The big creatures made a sound again to a crossbow being primed for firing, aiming the devices in their arms that had spat death in the throne room earlier at the Princesses and their entourage. Rainbow Dash snorted. The polite Iron Warrior flexed his fingers by his sides. The Cutie Mark Crusaders covered their eyes. Twilight gulped.
"No."
The voice was authorative and sagely, carrying a sense of finality with it. Twilight turned to look from where it came, her gesture mimicked by ever other creature present. Celestia stood in the centre of the throng of Ponies unbowed and unmoving. Her eyes were alight with fire, and her horn was surrounded by a rainbow of hues and power. Twilight took a step back in awe.
"I am Equestria's judgement."
Something was wrong. Twilight, along with ever other Pony bar Luna and the hovering Pegasi, pressed their muzzles to the ground in deference, but even so the lilac Unicorn could tell that something wasn't right. This did not feel like the build-up of any offensive spell she had read about or practiced. It felt a lot more powerful than that, but not designed to hurt. Twilight's mind moved at a thousand miles a second, trying desperately to figure out what Celestia was doing. Luna beat her to it.
"Sister, nay!"
But Celestia would not be stopped. She rose from the ground slightly, eyes still burning and the nimbus of power still forming over her head. The Iron Warriors watched her rise, unsure of what to do or if there even was anything that could be done. With all the grace that would be expected of a Pony of her rank and her years, Celestia inclined her head and let out a narrow bolt of rainbow coloured light straight at the Iron Warriors.
Twilight screwed her eyes closed, the second brilliant flash of light searing her retinas. She did not see what happened, what the bolt of light had done. No-one did.
Well, almost no-one.
"What in Olympia's name was that?!"
Lorkhan sat up from where he had been laying on his back. That had hurt like a bitch. For all his years of warfare, even after all the thirteenth company had done and seen, Lorkhan hadn't expected death to be quite that painful; in truth, he was almost impressed. He hadn't thought the Xenos had it in them.
"You're not dead, if that's what you're thinking."
In seconds he was on his feet, Mecha-tendrils snapping to attention. Celestia's voice, that had been Celestia's voice. It didn't mean she was telling the truth, but it was something to focus on. He looked all around for the source of the voice, trying to discern where in the hells he was. That wasn't easy, because he didn't seem to be anywhere. Everywhere he looked there was stars and blackness, and precious little else. Looking down, Lorkhan saw he was standing on white. Not white anything in particular. Just white. The whole place reminded the Warsmith of the Eye more than a little, and he wished that he still had his Power Axe. Surrendering to those Ponies was the stupidest thing they'd ever done. He couldn't believe he'd let Rorke and Mordecai talk him into it.
"You should consider yourself blessed. In a reign of a thousand years, only five souls have ever seen this place. It is quite wondrous, isn't it?" That voice again. It was starting to annoy the Warsmith.
"Did you zap them with rainbow lasers too?" Lorkhan asked, trying again to pinpoint where it originated. Celestia laughed, but it seemed to echo from all around him.
"Alas, no. They were willing, and they didn't tear apart half the city before they were brought here."
"And where exactly would that be?"
"My place." That was definitely from behind him. Lorkhan span on his heels, and sure enough, there stood the Princess. She looked curiously less angry now than she had before. Lorkhan wasted no time; he pushed off his back leg, flinging himself at Celestia and launching a powerful right hook. Before the punch connected however, she dissipated into nothingness, leaving the Warsmith to land staring dumbly at his fist.
"As I said, this is my place. Why exactly did you think that attacking me in blind fury would accomplish anything of value?" To his right, Lorkhan saw a white shape reforming. Immediately he lashed out with a mechanical tendril at the Princess. She dissipated again just as before, her sigh filling the air. It set Lorkhan's teeth on edge.
"You're a really slow learner, aren't you?"
"I prefer the term persistent."
She appeared a third time, in front of him now and with an expression that implied that he'd be advised to let her finish talking. Lorkhan did not move to attack, instead folding his arms over his chest.
"So...if I'm not dead, which is still the theory I'm going with by the way, what exactly am I doing here?"
"You're here because this is a place that you and I can talk freely, without being interrupted by my sister and more...shall we say 'zealous' members of my kingdom."
"Talk? You want to talk?" Lorkhan couldn't help but blink in surprise. "Gods of the Warp, if that's how you execute people here then just cut my head off and be done with it I implore eyou. I get enough of an earful from Mordecai as it is."
At this, she smiled, coming closer slightly. It wasn't a friendly smile, but it wasn't sadistic either, and that was a start.
"Why do you assume I'm going to execute you?"
"You were before."
"You hadn't shown some measure of goodness by saving the little one's lives and saving Canterlot from Chrysalis and the Changelings, even if neither of those things were intentional; that, and you weren't useful to me before."
Lorkhan unfolded his arms and tilted his head to the side slightly. Hate her as he did, he felt his respect for the Xenos Princess rise a fraction. He wouldn't have expected her capable of such guile.
"I am a Princess, Iron Warrior." She went on, circling him now. "And that means that sometimes, I have to make...difficult decisions. I cannot say that I ever truly wanted to execute you. We've never truly executed someone in Equestria, but with you we couldn't see any other way. Our magic does not work on you as it does on creatures native to Equestria, it seems."
"Urr...thanks?" Lorkhan watched her as she moved around him, unsure of where this was going.
"I am a Princess, and therefore by necessity a pragmatist, but I take no joy in death." She went on. "I condemned you to death because I saw no other option. But you have proven yourself capable fighters, if not strictly speaking competent, and I have use for creatures such as you."
Lorkhan bristled at being called incompetent, but his interest was piqued. At the very least it sounded like Celestia was giving him a chance to survive even a little longer. That had to be worth listening too, if nothing else.
When he did not respond, Celestia continued. "There is a place in this realm called the Everfree forest. It is...not as it should be. My mastery of the sun, and my sisters of the moon, is irrelevant there; the heavenly bodies rise and fall of their own accord." Lorkhan wasn't sure why this was out of the ordinary, but decided to hold his tongue. "My subjects, with one or two exceptions fear to enter that place. It is the haunt of monsters and dark things from the old times. And recently, something has risen within its shadowed confines."
"Why don't you deal with it?" Lorkhan asked.
"My sister and I are kept busy with Royal Duties, Lorkhan. And we have no idea what this new threat is. If we possessed the time, I would go myself and crush it. But I cannot, and I dare not send my subjects, for I fear not even the best and brightest of them could triumph."
"And that's where we come in." Lorkhan finished, all the pieces slotting into place. "We go and do your dirty work for you, whilst you sit back in your castle safe in the knowledge that we'll probably have the shit kicked out of us by whatever fucked-up thing this bloody planet decides to throw at us next."
"You are perceptive, Warsmith."
"One thing." Lorkhan asked, smiling despite himself. He drew in close to Celestia, so his helmet was no more than inches away from her face. "Why the FUCK would we do that."
"Two main reasons." She replied, unperturbed. "The first should be fairly evident; if you survive and complete this mission for me, I shall grant you a royal pardon based on service to the realm."
Lorkhan was, only temporarily, unmanned. "After the magical mystery tour that we just had out there, that seems awfully generous of you."
"As I said Iron Warrior, death holds no great joy for me."
"And the second reason why I should go skipping merrily along to what has a 95% chance of being a suicide mission?"
"The second reason, is that should you survive, I shall allow you to stay here in Equestria under my protection until we find a way of getting you home...provided you don't turn on us, of course."
Well, there went that option.
Lorkhan was suspicious. The IV Legion paranoia for which they were so famed was working overtime, yet it was tempered by consideration. Celestia had a point. He hadn't thought about how they were going to get off this bloody rock.
"Let's look at the facts." The Pony continued, pressing her advantage now she saw he was interested. "I admit I have no idea what you are, or about anything you have spoken of since arriving here. I know not of the 'Warp', or this war of which you speak, or why you wear painted metal skulls on your shoulders and can snap apart spines like they were twigs. But I have observed enough to know what drives you. You want to get back to wherever it is you come from. You never wanted to be here in the first place. Your Warlock's magic may perhaps work on a small scale, but not to the degree required to fashion an escape method through it. Your transport is smashed, beyond repair, and we have nothing capable of leaving Equestria's orbit that you could plunder. What option do you have but working with us? You could betray us, of course you could. But then you would be stuck here perhaps indefinitely, and you've been here for two days and hate it. Work with us, and we will find a way to get you off back to the stars. Because believe me when I say that I don't want you here more than anyone else does."
Lorkhan gave a small growl of exasperation, staring down at the ground. As much as it pained him to admit it, Celestia was right. The Iron Warriors couldn't stay there forever, and without the Ponies help they had no way of leaving unless by some miracle a Warp Storm popped up-and even that wasn't a safe bet. They needed the Xenos' aid. Then, they could leave, go back to Medrenguard and re-join the rest of the Legion.
And then...and then, the Thirteenth could come back. Re-armed and ready to fight a proper war. Yeah. Yeah, that would show his naysayers in the rest of the Legion. Slaughter the Xenos for Perturabo and the Gods, glass the world and erect a new fortress-planet of the IV. They couldn't argue with that. Or even better; go deeper into the eye and find the faggot arse Thousand Son that had put them in this position in the first place. Then Lorkhan could tear the Sorcerer's helmet off, empty the dust out, and take a nice big shit in it. That would at least be personally satisfying.
He twisted his head to look up at Celestia who was watching him intently. "Would we get our weapons back?"
"No."
"Could we take the Obliterators?"
"Your large friends? Yes."
"I see." He turned back to looking at the floor, sighing and closing his eyes. "I can't believe I'm actually doing this." He raised an arm straight out to the side, still staring down to the white floor. Celestia mirrored the gesture with her hoof. Lorkhan grasped it firm in his gauntlet, and shook once.
Celestia's horn began to play with radiant light again, and in a second they were gone.
Nothing had changed. That was what hit Lorkhan first. Everything was precisely as it had been the moment Celestia had cast her spell.
It seemed that wherever they'd gone, it had existed beyond the boundaries imposed by time. The Ponies still stared where their ruler now stood again, and the Iron Warriors still looked up where she'd risen above them. Realising that the situation had changed, they looked back down at Lorkhan, none of them daring to speak. He didn't face them, standing slightly ahead of the group and looking at the mass of Xenos. Celestia stood in the middle of them, smiling at the Warsmith knowingly. The blue Princess stared at her white sibling, her anger evident. The little purple unicorn didn't seem to know what to think.
Slowly it became apparent to Lorkhan that everyone was waiting for him to speak. He sighed again-it occurred to him just how much he'd done that over this whole experience-and clapped his hands together in front of him.
"Brothers."
He span round to face them, feeling their eyes burning into him as he looked them all up and down. Although Lorkhan could not see their faces, he could feel their initial bemusement change to almost expressions of almost pleading; as if they knew what was coming and begged him to have it be anything else. The Obliterators couldn't hide their expressions, one of them shaking his head slowly in disbelief. Only Mordecai seemed unfazed.
Lorkhan opened his hands in an expansive gesture as he searched for the right words. Behind his helmet, he felt his features crease in his best shit-eating grin. When at last he spoke, his voice was at the very least enthusiastic.
"I've got excellent news!" |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Pollos | "I hate you."
"I know."
"I hate you."
"I know."
"There are no words that accurately describe how much I hate you."
"You've made your point, Rorke."
Rorke glowered at Lorkhan's back as he and the rest of the Iron Warriors in their group trudged through the deep forest cover. For all that Celestia had claimed that the 'Everfree' was wild and untamed, there certainly seemed to be plenty of these conveniently open pathways beneath the canopy. Rorke didn't bother complaining. He had more than enough of that to do today.
This was ludicrous. Everything they'd done since they'd crashed on this blasted planet had been flawed, but this latest idea of Lorkhan's to not only let the Xenos live, but to actually work together with them took the cake. Rorke hadn't believed it when the Warsmith first told the surviving Astartes of the deal he'd agreed with the Pony princess. He had felt many emotions over his long life-embarrassment, anger, incomprehension, hysterical laughter-yet he had never been treated to the experience of all of them together in one concoction. It was all he could do to not tackle Lorkhan from behind in a vain attempt to usurp control and try and salvage something-anything-from this entire shitty escapade.
He looked down at the helmet still maglocked to his belt. He'd liked that helmet. The fact that it had sustained damage at the hands of these horse things galled him. The fact that he couldn't take revenge, for fear of upsetting Lorkhan's perfect little plan, annoyed him even more. The Iron Warrior champion rubbed the stubble on his chin, spitting in disgust. The acidic saliva burned the patch of grass where it landed with an audible hiss, leaving it brown and withered. It was only a small consolation.
Increasing his pace, Rorke moved to walk alongside the Warsmith. Lorkhan had not slowed down or stopped looking directly ahead since they'd entered the forest, seemingly wanting to get this over with as quickly as possible. On that at least, Rorke could sympathise with. The Company had divided into two groups of roughly equal size at the beginning of their trek, in order to cover more ground and discover whatever this thing the Ponies wanted them to take down quicker. Lorkhan and Rorke headed one of the parties, whilst Zuko and that slippery bastard Mordecai were in charge of the other. Vortun had gone with the other group two, leaving his two brethren to lumber alongside Rorke and his warriors. The Aspiring Champion had never heard either of them speak since falling prey to the Virus-they preferred to let Vortun do the talking as they whooped and cackled in battle, unleashing their profane pyrotechnics. Rorke wasn't sure they actually could still talk.
Slowing down his jog, Rorke came to a level pace with the Warsmith. Lorkhan still did not look at him, moving forward at a relentless pace. All the Iron Warriors had more or less been silent since entering the Everfree, instead staying on the lookout for any danger lurking in the undergrowth. Eyes had been watching them since their arrival, yet the Astartes had dismissed them as an irrelevance. They moved from the path, striding through tangled creepers snaking down from the trees and the knotted mass of vegetation being trampled beneath their ceramite boots. Rorke wished for his Power sword, or even a combat knife-anything to make navigating through the bush a little easier.
"I refuse to believe that Celestia would not have given us any sort of weapon had you pressed her for them." Rorke muttered. Lorkhan still didn't look at him, but the slight raising of his pauldrons betrayed a shrug.
"She made us a good offer, all things considered. I decided not to push our luck any more than was necessary. This might shock and appal you, Rorke, but I like living."
"As do I, sir. I just prefer living on my own terms."
Now Lorkhan did look, turning his head only slightly to give the former sergeant a sidelong glance. Rorke returned his stare, fighting to keep his expression neutral. Internally, he felt himself squirm slightly-for all his occasional blundering, the Warsmith was still in charge for a reason.
"So it's 'sir', now?" Lorkhan asked, the daemon-faced gargoyles that functioned as his armour's exhaust letting out a steady stream of black smoke. Rorke went back to looking dead ahead.
"I could go back to telling you I hate you. Which I do, by the way."
Lorkhan chuckled slightly, and returned his attention to the path ahead. They walked in silence for a few minutes, before the Warsmith broke it.
"Horus is dead, Rorke. The crusade we fought to topple the False Emperor is not the same as it once was. Abbadon leads it now, for all the good that's done. We need to adapt to the times and not cling on to past glories."
It took Rorke a moment to formulate a response. "Maybe so. But we can choose our battles, and fight the ones that matter. We were at the Cage, Lorkhan. We humbled Dorn and his bastards. I think you can see why being stuck on this planet having to work with Princess Pony and pals annoys to me." It took him a couple of seconds to continue. "It's not a crime to want to win this war."
"Do you think I like this any more than you do? I hate this, really brother, I do. But I accept that right now we haven't been presented with much of a choice. All we can really do is play along, and see what fate deals us." The Warsmith was starting to sound more annoyed by the second, but Rorke would not be dissuaded.
"That was strangely poetic. Please tell me you're not turning into one of Fulgrim's dandies."
"I'm not nearly fabulous enough for that." Lorkhan stopped abruptly, catching Rorke off guard. The Warsmith tilted his head to the side, as if pondering upon a great question. Rorke watched with a rising mixture of expectation and annoyance.
"You realise that this is probably the first time in years that you and I have had a proper discussion." The Warsmith finally stated. Rorke blinked in surprise, but merely shrugged
"Huh." The Warsmith turned to look at the treeline, clapping Rorke on the arm with a heavy gauntlet. "I'm starting to remember why you piss me off so much." Without another word, he walked towards it, disappearing into the gloom. Rorke watched him go with a roll of the eyes, before sighing an exasperated sigh and following him in.
Zuko grumbled unintelligibly as he kicked the rock without thinking. It sailed through the air, whistling as it went, before vanishing from sight. Zuko didn't bother trying to track its flight. In truth, he didn't care.
This place sickened him. All he'd seen of this world so far had sickened him, yet he found himself developing a special loathing of the Everfree. The whole place was too...close. Zuko had never been particularly claustrophobic, no Space Marine was. But something about the forest and the way it surrounded you so totally sent small tingles of battle-preparation adrenalin through the Iron Warrior's body.
Something made a hooting sound above him. Zuko snapped his head back, turning his eyes skyward as he searched for the source of the noise. Whatever it had been was already gone, and he grumbled in annoyance again. The polite laughter from just over his shoulder did not improve his mood.
"I say, dear brother, you are particularly jumpy tonight." Zuko turned to look at the speaker. Mordecai was already looking at him. "Do try and relax." The fact that he sounded sincere only aggravated Zuko further.
"That's easy for you to say. You already know if we're going to run into anything unpleasant in here."
"Oh my, surely you don't still cling to the childish notion that I can divine the future?"
"I had hoped" Zuko snorted. Mordecai shook his head sadly, while from over the vox Vortun grunted.
"I am as puzzled as you are concerning the nature of our quarry, Brother-Sergeant." Mordecai continued, swaying slightly as he walked. "Though I admit that I am most curious."
"I still fail to see what 'great evil' could lurk on this pastel-coloured hellhole of a world, even if this corner of it in particular isn't the most...inviting."
"Well, quite." Mordecai looked at Zuko expectantly. It took the Iron Warrior a moment to work out what the Psyker was getting at.
"You want to know what I think it is, don't you?"
"I have always found your opinion to be most valuable."
"Bullshit." Zuko spat. Despite this, he couldn't deny that he'd been thinking about that exact issue as well. There'd be no harm in humouring Mordecai.
"Well...from what Lorkhan said that Celestia had told him, the Ponies think it's a 'great evil' or some-such. But I suppose to them, anything that doesn't support kindness and other such nauseating concepts would be classed as evil. It's entirely possible we will have no quarrel with whatever it is. Plus..." Zuko went quiet, trying to think of the right words to articulate his thoughts. "They had never heard of the Warp, or the Gods, or anything to do with us. It's like this whole planet is cut off from the galaxy at large, which would explain why the Xenos are so accommodating. But here, in this forest, the 'normal' rules obeyed by nature such as dominion of the sun and the moon by the Princesses don't apply. And even I can feel the presence of the Realm here. Personally, I reckon that whatever we encounter, it'll have been here a long time, and it'll be familiar to us."
Zuko did not look at his brother, electing to carry on walking. When no reply was forthcoming, he turned in confusion. Mordecai was staring at him, expression masked by his horned helmet. Zuko felt his eyes narrow.
"You think the same thing, don't you?"
Mordecai nodded, but for once there was no smart-arse comeback. The group of twelve or so Iron Warriors continued to navigate through the dense forest in silence, the stillness only punctuated by the rustling of leaves, the cries of animal, and occasional angry cursing from an Astartes who had stepped in something unpleasant.
"Why do we swear so much?" Mordecai again. Zuko gritted his teeth to hold back his annoyance.
"What the fuck are you talking about?" He asked.
"Right there." The sorcerer said. "See? It cannot have escaped your notice the...crass dialect of our particular company. We curse more than perhaps we should do as the heirs of Olympia."
"One, Olympia is dead. We killed it. Two, why does it matter?"
"Back in the Crusade, we were much more eloquent in our responses, if you recall."
"We used to be a lot of things." Zuko finally stopped in his tracks, spinning on his heels to face Mordecai. The witch simply looked back at him, head cocked to the side slightly. The champion raised his arms in defeat. "Look, Mordecai, I don't know. I don't care. We were in the Warp a long time, maybe it's just a gift from the Gods. Frankly, you'd know better than me, and I am really not in the mood to be having this discussion with you right now."
"As you wish." Mordecai nodded, resuming his march. A couple of Iron Warriors, Basikor and Barbus amongst them, had stopped to watch the exchange. They followed Zuko, seemingly disappointed it hadn't come to blows. For about twenty minutes, the party walked in silence again.
Finally, after a half-hour of solid walking, they reached a place where the tree canopy was even thicker. A small ridge led down into an area clear of heavy bush cover. At the edge of this clearing stood a large tree. It looked old, and gnarled, twisted and looming over the ground so as to cast its long shadows more completely. Other haggard looking trees rose around it, contributing to the unwholesome air. Fungi and strange species of plants that Zuko couldn't recognise sprouted under the trees on the clearing's edge, and even through his helmet grille a strange scent assailed the Iron Warrior's nose. Something wasn't right.
"Ze tree." Vortun was the one that pointed it out. "It is hollow."
It was. Light shone out from two windows cut into the bark, and a door was affixed to its base. Baubles and charms hung off the tree's branches, whilst upon the ground outside were large masks that looked almost daemonic in visage. Zuko found, to his dismay, that he actually kind of liked the place.
"Do you think it's inhabited?" The Champion muttered over the general vox, squatting along with the rest of his brothers-save Vortun-in a vain effort to hide himself.
"Considering there's a light on inside? Yeah, that's pretty much a giveaway." Barbus whispered back. Zuko crawled slightly closer, subconsciously analysing the building's structural weaknesses and blind spots. He was about to pounce when he felt eyes on him from behind. He span round in a combat stance, as a heavily accented voice spoke up.
"Tell me, what are these creatures that dare roam, away from the city and close to my home?"
"Sister, please calm down."
"This is an outrage, Celestia, and you are well aware of it!"
"You are overreacting, Luna. Please, calm down."
"How can you permit this?"
Twilight stared down at her hooves as the two Princesses argued, the feeling of being utterly out of her depth washing over her in waves of nausea. Fidgeting awkwardly, she attempted to get comfortable on her cushioned seat. It didn't work.
After Celestia's orders that the Iron Warriors were to be sent into the Everfree forest, a council of what were ostensibly the wisest ponies was called to discuss what to do after. Twilight had protested at her invitation, but apparently being Celestia's faithful student had its responsibilities as well as perks. None of the other element bearers had been invited, and she wished for the hundredth time that at least one of her friends was here supporting her; specifically, she missed Spike. She hadn't seen the little Dragon since things had kicked off in the throne room, and worry was starting to set in.
Luna had been apoplectic when she had heard of her sister's decree, and most of the 'council' had consisted of the Princess of the Night demanding justice and explanations in equal measure. Celestia had been more taciturn and defensive, giving little information on what the Iron Warriors were doing, and even less on what she had discussed with Lorkhan. The other Ponies seated round the table-Twilight, Mayor Mare, two members of the Royal Guard (as Shining Armour had been ordered to attend the infirmary), Due Sentence the clerk, and some aristocratic looking residents of Canterlot that Twilight didn't recognise-had been utterly silent, bar a report from the Guardsponies. Looking at them, the purple Unicorn guessed they all felt as awkward as she did.
"We have said it once, and we shall say it a thousand times." Luna went on. "It dismays us that you believe these fiends are possessed of but a single redeeming quality, let alone are entitled to such generous mercy."
"They saved those filly's lives, Luna." Celestia retorted. The Lunar princess merely scoffed.
"Tis' a lie, and you are well aware of it. That was but a chance error upon their part, albeit one that we are extremely grateful for." Luna's face softened slightly, and she rose from her seat to trot over to her sister. Resting a midnight blue hoof on Celestia's shoulder, Luna gave a weak smile.
"It is not weakness to take a stand against evil, Celestia."
Twilight watched in awe for a moment, the rest of the assembled gathering following suite; seeing the two Princesses act as siblings was rare, to say the least. For a moment, Twilight thought that Celestia would be swayed by her sister's tenderness. But then, she brushed Luna's hoof of an shook her head slowly, and the spell was broken.
"They can still serve us, even I they don't want to. And everyone deserves a second chance." A moment's pause. "You should know that better than anyone."
Luna seemed less than pleased, her face turning stony and cold. She did not say anything, but stalked around the table, circling like an ocean predator that has just caught the scent of blood. Twilight felt sweat begin to bead across her brow, and tapped her hooves on her seat awkwardly. Trying to focus on something else, she idly stared out the debating chamber's window.
She could more or less make out Ponyville in the valley below. The town seemed to be more or less recovering from this distance, although the ugly wreckage of the ship the Iron Warrior's had arrived in and the scar it had gouged out of the land were still visible. Beyond that was the Everfree Forest, a dark and unsettling mass of foliage in an otherwise pleasant landscape.
Twilight suppressed a shiver. They were out there, under those branches and boughs. The Iron Warriors. Whether they were dead or alive was another matter, but the fact remained that creatures that had been enemies of the realm not a week before were now working by Princess Celestia's whim. Twilight couldn't stop her skin crawling.
"Twilight?"
Twilight's attention snapped back to the present as she heard her name. Turning, she saw the other members of the chamber all staring at her expectantly. Her cheeks flushed.
"Y-yes Princess?" Celestia smiled not unkindly as Twilight's voice wavered. For her part, Luna tapped her hoof impatiently on the stone table.
"I asked what you thought of our current situation concerning the...interlopers."
"Oh." Twilight cleared her throat, trying to slow her heart and seem as business like as possible. "Of course, Princess." She paused momentarily, searching for the right words. "Well...on the one hoof, I think it's pretty obvious that these guys aren't enjoying their time here anymore than we are, and based on what we know they're capable of, I'm willing to bet that they have every intention on turning on us if they get the chance."
"You see, Tia? Even your faithful student supports my view." Luna put in, proudly. Celestia gave another smile.
"That certainly did seem to be your friend's viewpoint." The solar princess said. Twilight nodded.
"Well, I guess so. But..." she felt Luna's eyes bore into her, but pressed on regardless. "But we've never seen anything like them before. I'm not sure even they know the full intricacies of what they are. And I hate to say it, but they did seem to be intent on keeping their promise on investigating the Everfree. I know that nopony really wants it, but I just don't think we can cast them out when given this opportunity to learn more."
Luna had apparently heard enough, making for the door. "You will damn us all, Twilight Sparkle." She murmured, still loud enough for all to hear. "Misplaced kindness and compassion serves nothing."
"With the greatest respect, Princess, I don't think it's about compassion." Twilight retorted, the urge to defend her point stronger than her fear at back talking a Princess. "It's about having opportunities presented to us, and..."
She trailed off as she looked out the window again in passing, eyes widening as she took in the scene before her. The other ponies in the room followed her eyes, their own mouths hanging agape as they saw what she did. A buzz of muttering broke out as the Princesses watched in silence; Celestia closed her eyes and shook her head, whilst Luna's face seemed to be a mix of horror, outrage, and subtle glee at being vindicated.
"Damnit Lorkhan" Twilight heard Celestia whisper. She couldn't blame her.
Lorkhan snarled as the Timberwolf pitched him onto his back, great wooden jaws snapping at the seal joining his helmet to his chest plate. The creature's soulless green eyes stared down at him as its jaws edged closer and closer, saliva drooling from its mouth like armour that had been reduced to molten goo by a Meltagun blast. The Warsmith gave another grunt of effort, grasping the wolf's forelimbs in his ceramite gauntlets and heaving. Despite being almost as long as the Iron Warrior was tall, the Timberwolf was surprisingly light, and Lorkhan had swiftly regained his footing and held the creature in mid-air. It still drooled and snapped at him, until a Mecha-tendril smashed through its head, ending its frenzied assault for good.
The Warsmith dropped the creature's broken body by his feet and kicked it away contemptuously. Dsting himself down, he was just in time to see the rest of his brothers drive away the remnants of the pack that had attacked them. Rorke raised one over his head, his face a mask of wordless rage, and brought it crashing down onto his knee. The wooden beast's spine splintered clean in two like an overused toothpick, and the Aspiring Champion hurled the two halves of the wolf away with a howl.
Hardly the company's greatest victory, true, but at least it was a victory.
"What...were those things" Rorke panted, and Lorkhan knew that the Astartes kill-urge would still be flooding his system as it was with all the warriors. The Xenos had held the element of surprise, but they'd soon found their efforts hampered by Power armour, and in just over three minutes around twenty of the creatures had been slain by the Legionnaires. A couple of the Marines nursed fractured wrists where a lucky tooth had sank into soft armour, and there was hardly a suit of armour that had not had some of the steel paint stripped from it, but all in all injury was light.
"Gods be damned if I know." Lorkhan said, still surveying the scene. "Some kind of Xenos beast that was able to flourish within the confines of this forest. Our gracious employers probably live in abject fear of them."
The Warsmith looked down to his left as Kravix grasped onto one's body. The Marine placed a hand on each side of the Timberwolf's wooden skull before yanking. It came free with little effort. Kravix held the head out in front of him, seemingly pleased with his effort. Before Lorkhan could ask what the hell he was doing, it collapsed in on itself; the magic keeping these creatures together seemingly fleeing from the corpse, and the wood becoming lifeless chunks of tree again.
"I wanted that as a trophy." Kravix said. He sounded disappointed.
"You'll live." Lorkhan replied, his helmet's vox-grille rendering his voice a growl even if he hadn't meant to himself. Over his shoulder, the Obliterators paced back and forth in what Lorkhan could only guess was impatience. They hadn't got to use their weapons in the fight, and the inactivity was clearly galling to them. Lorkhan had never been a particularly pious man even by the IV Legion's standards, but he muttered a silent prayer that the warped warriors would keep their tempers in check and not bring the whole bloody forest down on their heads.
"Lord." One of the other Iron Warriors called. With Rorke a step behind, Lorkhan paced his way to the other side of the clearing they had found themselves in. The Iron Warrior who had called them over was crouched by the treeline, examining something obscured in the shadows. His Power Armour gave an even angrier whine than usual, and sparks fizzled from the backpack in irregular bursts.
"Your backpack is damaged." Lorkhan said, crouching down with some difficulty. The other warrior merely shrugged.
"One of those bug things caught me off guard, Lord. It looked like Zuko."
"And you didn't kill it immediately anyway?"
The Iron Warrior laughed, before nodding at what he and the Warsmith were looking at. Lorkhan's eyes flicked left and right within his helmet, taking the sight in.
"These plants." The Iron Warrior said, nodding his head towards the flora. To Lorkhan's eyes they looked nothing special; completely blue, with a bud on top and several antennae like stalks sprouting from it. There was a cluster of them here that led away into the trees, and now the Warsmith thought about it he'd noticed several bunches of them as they'd been walking.
"What about them?" Rorke asked with a sneer, reaching down to grab one. As his hand moved towards them the other Iron Warrior's arm shot out, grasping the Champion's wrist and holding it in place.
"Don't." The crouching Astartes said softly. Rorke bristled in barely contained danger, but retracted his arm. The Iron Warrior turned to look at the Warsmith.
"I ran some diagnostics. These plants may look harmless, but the spores...not so much." Lorkhan looked at him inquisitively as the Iron Warrior breathed slowly, weighing up his next words. "They seem to contain some kind of toxin, but not one that can be countered with a Narthecium and some time spent in the Apothecarion. From what I gather, there's some kind of psychic charge to it."
"That sounds wonderful." Lorkhan snorted.
"Aye. I couldn't tell you what it does, as I've no intention of finding out, nor do I know whether it would affect us. But it's worth bearing in mind."
Lorkhan looked at him in silence for a minute. "So, this is just...for my information."
"That, and the fact that if this plant reacts like plants with its structure in the rest of the galaxy do, it'll be a powerful narcotic when burned."
The Warsmith's head tilted to the side, seemingly in non-comprehension. "So...it's a drug?"
"Yes, Lord. Although the fact that there's so much of it here indicates one of three things; it grows incredibly quickly, the Xenos don't know about that it's a drug, or this forest is more shit-scary to them than we thought."
"I see." The Warsmith rose, servos in his legs giving an angry growl as he did so. "I never had you down as a student of horticulture, brother." The Iron Warrior gave another chuckle, before turning back to examine the blue flowers.
The rest of the squad seemed preoccupied with disposing with the wooden remnants of their attackers. Lorkhan sighed and paced around aimlessly, replaying the journey over in his head. Zuko and Mordecai's group had not been in contact yet, and without knowing how they were doing it was becoming harder and harder to think of where else there was to go. Rorke had taken a seat on a rock and had begun kicking at pebbles scattered across the ground.
"So what the fuck do we do now?" The champion asked. He rubbed his armoured wrists impatiently, still twitching with the last vestiges of adrenalin. Lorkhan watched his brother. Rorke had always been the most violent of the Company, but this shuddering was...not ideal.
"Control yourself, damnit. We'll get there when we get there"
Rorke grunted in amusement, spitting more acidic bile onto the ground. Lorkhan felt his nose curl in revulsion.
"That's easy for you to say. You're on talking terms with the Xenos it seems, so I guess when they invite you to their next tea party you'll just have to tell th-"
"Are we really going to have this discussion now, Rorke?" The Warsmith cut in, voice the sound of iron crashing into stone. "Really. We're stuck in this fucking forest and have bugger all idea where we are or where we're going, there's no way of us getting of this shithole of a planet without us having to kiss the backside of bastard pastel-coloured horses, and in addition to all that we've come under attack by animal shaped trees, shape changing insects and the fucking sun, and you really think that now is the best time to bitch at me?" Lorkhan gave an exasperated sigh on the last word, before turning and rubbing his red visors with the tips of his armoured fingers. It accomplished nothing practical, but it did make Lorkhan feel better. His nose was still curled; there was a new scent in the air, sharp and irritating. Rorke said nothing, merely sitting back on the rock and crossed his arms. Whether it was in defiance or simple acceptance, Lorkhan couldn't tell.
"Sir." The vox crackled to life, snapping Lorkhan out of his reverie. He raised a hand to his ear, as if that would help him hear better.
"Tell me there's good news."
"It's Barbus, sir. We're at point 99-XC along our route, it should be patching into your optical stream now. I think you need to get here right away."
Lorkhan was already running as the scent tingled at his nose. No matter their level of intelligence, all Warsmiths were used to the smell of fire.
The creature had introduced herself as Zecora, and in stark contrast to every other damn thing the Iron Warriors had encountered so far-Celestia not included, perhaps-had not wanted to put the Astartes' heads on spikes at first sight. Although the presence of the armoured giants near her home had come as a surprise to her, she revealed that she had been quite aware of their arrival in 'Equestria' and didn't see any reason to needlessly make an enemy.
This act hadn't convinced many of the Iron Warriors, who had seen little difference in this Xenos from the ones who'd tried to kill them earlier that very weak. Zuko had to agree with them; the fact that she'd somehow been watching them all this time was enough to cause concern. The constant rhyming the creature insisted on only added to the list of reasons Zuko thought they should just snap her in half and be done with it. But alone of the Space Marines, Mordecai had argued against violence. The Sorcerer had proposed that, seeing as Zecora was a native of this forest, if anyone was going to know where they might find a 'great evil' that the Princess would want destroying then she would. This had elicited grumbles from the other Iron Warriors; as far as they were concerned, they had made more than enough allowances for aliens recently. Yet Mordecai had been insistent, and at the very least Zecora had been accommodating and willing to listen.
Her hut was small and cramped, and Zuko reckoned that it couldn't have held two or three other ponies, let alone anything bigger. In his Power Armour Mordecai took up most of the room, and he sat hunched over like some great steel gargoyle. Despite the impracticality, Zuko had offered to accompany the Sorcerer in anyway; Mordecai had responded with a curt shake of the head.
"That will not be necessary, brother." The warlock had said, voice all smiles. "I will handle this myself."
Which meant Zuko, the other ten or so Iron Warriors that had come with him, and Vortun were stuck in the clearing outside the tree-hut for the time being. A couple were examining the baubles hung on trees, or the strange masks scattered around, but for the most part they simply around and waited in bored frustration. Zuko and Vortun had taken to wandering around purposelessly, trying to find something to amuse themselves with.
The smell of what Zuko guessed was incense, or some kind of potion, wafted out from the glowing windows of the hut. It managed to penetrate the grille on Zuko's helmet, and despite all his genetically altered stature it was an effort to not gag. Strolling closer to the window, the Champion risked a peek inside. It was difficult to see anything due to Mordecai's bulk, but Zuko spotted a large black cauldron with smoke pouring from the green liquid that sat within. There were more fetishes and charms scattered around, and on the shelves sat bottles and bowls of what were likely ingredients for her witches' brew.
Zuko could see why Mordecai liked it so much.
The Sorcerer and the Xenos both sat sipping from cups containing the green drink, the Iron Warrior's helmet resting on his lap. It struck Zuko that this was the first time in a long time that Zuko had seen his brother unmasked. Although he had no way of telling, or an appreciation for such things, Zuko supposed his brother may have been handsome once, had he not been taken at birth and transformed into a god-like warrior. His face was lean and narrow, and his eyes were a piercing shade of violet. There was no facial hair, or any trace of bionics that were the norm for so many Iron Warriors. From what little he knew of Mordecai's past, he was from one of the Olympian street gangs that were widespread at the time Father had claimed dominion the planet and it was reunited with the false Emperor. It was funny, sometimes, to imagine how he must have been; a scrawny and foul mouthed child who could move things without touching them. Truly the Legion, not to mention the Warp, changed all things.
The pair seemed to be discussing mainly irrelevant things, such as magical theory and the correct use of charms in spell craft. It was all Zuko could do not to bark a plea for his brother to hurry up, but he knew that Mordecai would not be rushed. The champion turned so his back was to the wall and began to slide down it slowly, letting out a sigh as he touched the ground and hung his head between his legs.
Vortun lumbered over to him, expression unreadable even when the mutating touch of the warp was ignored. The Obliterator wasn't capable of sitting, but he rested his back on the tree-hut and gave a sigh of his own.
"Ve really should be moving." The Obliterator rumbled in his gruff baritone. Zuko raised his hands, an expression of both agreement and questioning what the hell Vortun wanted him to do about it.
"Mordecai will do it all in his own time." The Champion complained, still staring at the ground. "From what I can hear he's convinced this...thing, whatever it is, has knowledge of ritual magic, and when was the last time he got to talk to someone like him who wasn't trying to kill him."
"Zere vas Khalophis, during ze Crusade." The Obliterator replied. Zuko turned to look at him, the unspoken reprimand clear. Vortun looked down at him, before his rippling features cracked in an ugly smile.
"I never said it vent vell."
Zuko slowly stood back to his feet, searching for any source of entertainment. Finally, his eye came to rest on a boulder situated towards the treeline. Sauntering over to it, he lifted it effortlessly; it would have required both hands and a not inconsiderable amount of muscle for a human to lift, yet it slotted neatly into the Iron Warrior's palm. He tossed it into the air, watching it span as it fell back into his waiting palm. He tossed it again, then a third time. Finally, the fleeting interest it had provided faded away, and the Champion tossed it away as thoughtlessly as he had picked it up.
THOOM
The beam of light sliced through the still forest air, sending birds squawking from nearby trees and bringing every Iron Warrior spinning round into a combat stance. The beam struck the rock, both dissipating itself and shattering the stone into thousands of scorched pebbles. Vortun stood, weapon braced and the barrel of his Lascannon still smoking. He began a throaty, phlegm filled chuckling. Soon that chuckling was taken up by every Astartes there; Zuko included.
"Lucky shot." The Champion said, tone only the slightest bit confrontational. Vortun relaxed slightly, tilting what remained of his head to the side in an almost quizzical expression.
"You're just pissed because I'm still ze best shot in ze Company."
"Utter bullshit."
"Am so, and you know it mein bruder."
"I know you're a lying bastard Vortun."
The Obliterator did not respond immediately, instead looking at the ground around Zuko's feet.
The milky-white orbs of his eyes scanned back and forth, narrowing in what appeared\ to be frustration. Finally, he indicated another rock about the same size as the first, Power Talons crackling with barely contained energy as he did so.
"Zat von. I vill prove it."
Zuko looked at him for a moment, before shaking his head in defeat and stooping down to pick up the rock. Grasping it tightly, he moved to stand beside the Obliterator, aware that every Iron Warrior outside the hut had stopped whatever it was they were doing and were watching with poorly disguised interest. Rocking back on his heels, Zuko let go of the rock with a mighty throw.
THOOM
Another beam hurtled through the air and struck the stone as it soared, reducing it to rubble as the first shot had. Vortun lowered the Lascannon, evidently pleased with himself. Zuko just scowled.
"My friends, if you would, I would think it fine,
If you would cease your horseplay near this home of mine."
The voice was singsong and melodic, coming from over the Iron Warrior's shoulders. Zuko turned to find Zecora staring at him from her window. The Xenos did not look angry per se, but her displeasure was clear enough to give Zuko pause.
"Sorry." He mumbled, galled at having to apologise to aliens. It seemed to satisfy their host at least, and she ducked her head back inside, taking another sip from her cup. Zuko caught Mordecai's eye as the Sorcerer leaned forward. The Psyker said nothing, merely raising an eyebrow. It was enough to cause Zuko to turn back around and fold his arms in annoyance.
" 'Horseplay'? That's just fucking insulting, coming from these...things." The Astartes warrior muttered. Vortun grunted in response, but offered nothing more. The pair fell silent, the Iron Warriors gathered around them seemingly losing interest.
"Von more." Vortun whispered eventually, leaning in slightly closer. Zuko unfolded his arms, but didn't look at his larger brother.
"You heard her, apparently fun's banned here as well. Besides, Mordecai would kill us." He whispered back. The Obliterator gave a sound that Zuko realised must be a laugh.
"Come on, von more. Zhey'll never know."
"Vortun, we can't."
"Only because you know you are wrong, da?"
That was too much. Zuko sighed, clenching his hands into fists in annoyance at letting Vortun goad him so easily.
"Fine. One more. But only because it's you."
Casting a glance over his shoulder to make sure he wasn't being observed, Zuko walked forwards, looking for another target. After a minute or so of searching he chanced upon a third rock; this one was only about half the size of its two predecessors, but the Iron Warrior reckoned it would suffice. Moving to stand back beside his brother, Zuko prepared to throw.
"One more thing," he added, only now sparing Vortun a quick glance. "Use a weapon that's not so loud this time, hmm?" The Obliterator nodded, and Zuko heard the distinctive squelching sound of an arm reforming. The Lascannon was replaced by a vicious looking Multi-melta, barrel scorched a shade of brown. The Obliterator could have made it look brand new if he wanted; it was probably just vanity in showing off how much it'd been used. Pushing the thought from his mind, Zuko tossed through the stone through the sir. It took considerably less effort than the other two, turning end over end as it flew. With a gruff snarl, Vortun fired a single beam from his weapon.
Zuko could already see it was going to miss. The timing was off, the trajectory miscalculated. The beam sailed over the rock harmlessly, more than a small gap existing between the two. The stone dropped back to the ground with a muffled thump, yet the Melta beam kept going. It gave a quiet roar as it travelled, though not as loud as a Lascannon's, and cut through the treeline disappearing into the distance to dissipate harmlessly. Vortun lowered the weapon seemingly disappointedly, and Zuko was just about to join in the jeering of his brothers when he noticed something that was slightly out of place.
The light from the beam hadn't disappeared entirely.
Except it wasn't the beam at all. The leaves crackled as the flame took root, already scorched black where the Melta shot had glanced over them. The licks and tongues of fire spread, creeping onto the branches with the slow tenderness of a lover. That creeping pace was soon replaced by what seemed to be an almost frenzied push; the fire devoured the bark without pause, spreading higher and higher into the canopy. It wasn't long before it had begun to set the other trees ablaze, heat washing off them in great waves. Within a minute of the fire starting it was quicker to count those trees that were not burning as opposed to counting those that were.
Slowly, oh so slowly, Zuko turned his head towards the Obliterator. The rest of the Astartes watched in seemingly dumbfounded silence, yet the Aspiring Champion was content to simply swivel his neck until his eyes rested on Vortun. His horned helmet gave away nothing of his expression, rigid armour not conveying body language. It wouldn't have needed to. Zuko's absolute stillness and silence said more than enough. Vortun looked back at him, cracking his best apologetic smile. This shoulders rose in what must have been an approximation of a shrug.
"Oops?" He ventured.
The fire was spreading even more rapidly now. Thick clouds of smoke produced by the burning vegetation wafted through the clearing. They would have been choking to any who were not Astartes. The flames had spread to behind the huddle now, tentatively pawing at the top of the tree in which Zecora had built he hut. They spread back as far as the Iron Warriors could see, burning branch and twig, encircling the Marines totally.
Zuko said nothing. He noticed briefly, out the corner of his eye, Barbus nodding his head as if he were talking on the helmet vox. It was probably to Lorkhan. Wonderful. The rest of the Iron Warriors, Vortun included, watched with an almost detached fascination, not moving to escape the blaze or try to put it out.
"We should really do something about that." Zuko pointed out after a moment or two, voice utterly emotionless. A few of his brothers nodded or murmured agreement, as nonchalantly as if they were discussing the pros and cons of different ammunition calibres.
Inevitably, the door hut-miraculously still intact-swung open within seconds. Zecora stormed out from within, ace a mix of panic and anger. Mordecai followed a step behind, snapping his helmet into place and looking around with the same dispassionate interest as his brethren.
"I do say brother, this really has been a less than stellar week for you hasn't it?" The Sorcerer asked. He sounded disappointed, yet not surprised. Zuko kicked at the ground, his embarrassment clear.
"It was Vortun's idea." He managed, weakly. The Obliterator gave him a rough elbow, nearly knocking Zuko onto his side. Zecora ran back and forward in a general panic, wide-eyed and fearful.
"You brutish fools, just look around.
They should have buried you beneath the ground!"
Mordecai raised a placating hand, seemingly trying to calm the Xenos down. Zuko watched on, shifting uncomfortably as the heat became more and more of an irritant.
"My dear lady, pray forgive my brothers here. They are rather set in their ways when it comes to heavy firepower." Mordecai said, voice silky and smooth. Zecora batted away his hand with some effort, face contorting more and more in rage.
"Celestia was right, it would seem.
Daemons like you cannot be redeemed." She hissed, spitting onto Mordecai's armour/ Turning back to her burning home, which by now had flames coming from within as well; she galloped around desperately as if seeking some way to reverse the damage done. It was that distress that meant she didn't see the branch.
Perhaps it had been loosened by the flames, or maybe it just fell of its own accord. The flaming bough tumbled end over end downwards, not deviating from its path in the slightest. Zuko saw it, but remained rooted to the spot, following it to its inevitable conclusion. Beside him Mordecai drew breath, as if to state a warning. He never got chance. The burning chunk of tree slammed down onto the Xenos' neck, driving her to the floor instantly without even giving her chance to cry out. Zuko flinched involuntarily, letting out an impressed whistle. The body twitched momentarily, legs spasming in a way that was almost hilarious. Zuko, Mordecai and Vortun stared at it for a moment, the Psyker folding his arms as they watched the flames singe the black and white fur.
"I must say gentlemen, this was a poor performance." Mordecai eventually said. Zuko and Vortun simply looked at their feet with mumbles of "sorry", like Hive city juves that have just been caught doing wrong by their mother.
Their gawping was interrupted by the sound of heavy boots thudding into the ground. Lorkhan, Rorke and the rest of the Iron Warrior barrelled out of the smouldering bushes, the other two Obliterators lumbering a step behind. Their ceramite armour protected them from the flames, but they still ran as if their lives depended on it.
"What...did...you...DO?!" Lorkhan barked, running up to his three subordinates. Rorke said nothing, mouth held agape. The Warsmith seemed about to say more, when something caught his eye.
"Do I even want to know what that is?" he asked in a low unimpressed voice, pointing at what remained of Zecora. Mordecai and Zuko turned back briefly to look at the corpse, before facing the Warsmith again.
"Not really." The Champion admitted. The Warsmith stared at him for a moment, before dragging a gauntlet down the front of his helmet in despair.
"Right then." He began, voice oddly composed and calm. "How exactly are we going to solve this?" The flames were reaching up higher now, and Zuko guessed they were probably past the treeline and visible from the castle now. Well, that was shitting wonderful.
"Maybe we should deal with that first." Rorke offered dryly, gesturing towards what remained of Zecora. Lorkhan turned to look at it again, before giving a single nod. Two Iron Warriors jogged up to the body, heaving away the still-flaming fallen branch and grabbing the Xenos by the fore and hind legs. Her head flopped back and forth limply as they moved her, betraying where the branch had snapped the neck. Strictly speaking one Astartes would have been more than sufficient to move Zecora, but nevertheless they heaved her back and forth in a strange leg-and-a-wing manoeuvre before eventually tossing it into the still flaming undergrowth. It rolled unceremoniously down a hill, before disappearing into the smoke. Despite everything, it was almost amusing to Zuko.
Lorkhan watched it go before turning back to his inner circle. By now the ceramite plates of the Marines' Power Armour were beginning to be stained black by the soot in the air. Rorke spluttered as some of it forced its way down his throat, rubbing his eyes as he did so. Zuko rubbed the back of his helmet awkwardly feeling the vox-grille of the impaled Imperial Fist helmet impaled on his power pack brush the back of his gauntlet. The Warsmith met their eyes one by one, lingering on Mordecai's a moment longer than the others.
"You all know what I'm going to say, right?" he finally said, speaking into the general vox. All the Iron Warriors nodded. They knew. Turning on their heels so the Xenos' hut-which by now had been almost completely burned to ashes-they began to run.
The Astartes sprinted through the flames, keeping only the loosest formation as they leapt over rocks and ducked beneath blazing tree boughs. The Obliterators lumbered a few steps behind, not able to keep up with their smaller brothers yet seemingly unbothered by the danger they were in. Zuko and Rorke ran side by side, unsure of where exactly they were going but reasoning that anywhere was better than where they were. The rest of the Iron Warriors moved to follow Lorkhan, pushing themselves harder as the fire raced to catch up with them. Their eyes shone red through the smog. Mordecai was navigating his own way through the pack of Astartes, esoteric items clinking on their chains as he ran whilst the small skirt he wore smouldered with a tiny fire of its own.
The smoke was blocking out the sky now, black against the black clouds that had been gathering above the Everfree that afternoon. The Iron Warriors forced themselves to keep on going, heedless of their complete ignorance concerning their location. Finally, they came skidding to a halt in another open clearing. All was burning, tree, branch and grass, and it wasn't hard for the assembled Marines to see that they were surrounded.
"Shit." To Zuko's surprise, it was Mordecai that swore. His voice quiet, and still quaintly polite. The Aspiring Champion could not fault his brother's frustration; for all the genetic wizardry poured into their, they could still be vulnerable to fire, and this seemed to be a singularly ignoble way to die.
Lorkhan strolled ahead of the milling group, that strange air of calm seeming to depend upon him again. He turned his head skyward, his intricately-wrought helmet even more unsettling in its new shade of ash black. Looking down at the ground again, the Warsmith shook his head with more than a trace of grim humour.
"You all agree that this is entirely Mordecai's fault, right?" He muttered. Some of the Iron Warriors, the Sorcerer included, laughed. Under his helmet Zuko allowed himself a smile. Just as it seemed that Mordecai was about to retort, Rorke flinched, nose wrinkling in surprise. Zuko turned to his brother, tilting his head to the side in confusion.
"What?" he asked. Rorke looked at him and opened his mouth to reply, when he flinched again. The helmetless warrior raised a gauntlet to his cheek and rubbed downwards, before removing his hand and looking at his palm. Zuko tapped his foot in frustration.
"What?" he asked again, voice sharper now. Rorke did not reply immediately, instead turning his head to look up into the cloud of smoke. His brow furrowed in confusion.
"Something hit my face." He answered, still looking up. Zuko felt an eyebrow rise. Following Rorke's gaze, his optics still couldn't penetrate the dark, and he was about to call his brother out on being delusional when a droplet of something moist hit his right lens.
It was a raindrop. It couldn't be anything else. Zuko blinked in surprise, wiping the spot of water away as if it were a phantom. Before his mind could catch up with the questions racing through it, a he felt a second drop soak into some soft armour. Before long there was a third, and a fourth, and then a fifth. Soon the drizzle was consistent, against all the odds breaching the cloud of ash that circulated above the Iron Warrior's heads.
The rest of the Astartes felt it to. They looked at one another in stark bemusement at the sudden presence of rainfall, chattering excitedly as the torrent intensified. Soon, what had started as a drizzle became a shower, and soon the rain came on in a veritable storm. The smoke was already dissipating, great winds that seemed to spring from nowhere buffeting and diffusing the ash and letting some grey light back through the canopy. The rain never slowed but seemed to come on with greater force, as if being forcibly vomited from the clouds above. From the corner of his eye, Zuko saw Lorkhan still staring upwards in shock.
The fires were already beginning to recede. Although not petering out fully, the sudden downpour quelled the more unruly flames, controlling the blaze and extinguishing those infernos that had climbed too high or too fast. The layer of black that had formed a fine sheen across the Iron Warrior's armour began to wash away in dark, ugly streaks. It still stank, but at the very least, they looked like warriors of the IV Legion again. Rorke spat out some water that had gone down his throat, before returning to staring open mouthed.
Eventually, the rains stopped, leaving only the stench of what a Terran may once have called spring hanging in the air. The conflagration of mere moments ago had been reduced to a few pockets of still burning timbers, almost laughably pathetic now. The Iron Warriors said nothing, still whispering grateful prayers and supplications to the Gods and whatever Neverborn had pulled them out of the shitter once again. Their prayers were about to be answered.
From behind the mass of clouds, now a fluffy white as opposed to stony grey, came a small horde of Xenos. There were Ponies of every colour; red, white, blue, black, some even yellow or sickly greens. They flapped on small feathered wings, watching the Iron Warriors below with a mixture of apprehension and disgust. A couple were more focused on the damage the fires had wrought, looking around with stunned expressions at the blackened remains of most of the Everfree. The Iron Warriors stared back up at them, unsure of exactly how to respond.
"Deus Ex Machina." Mordecai whispered, voice sounding awed. Lorkhan did not divert his eyes from the Pegasi above, but sniffed derisively.
"You almost sound impressed."
"I almost am, brother."
One of the Ponies was recognisable to the Astartes. She flew slightly away from the rest of her kin, closer to the ground than they dared. With the exception of Rorke, who merely squinted, the Iron Warriors zoomed in on her face-scrunched up tightly with wrath and antipathy as it was. It was the rainbow-haired alien from earlier, the brash one that had accused them of destroying the city after killing the shape shifter queen. Zuko remembered her. He remembered he didn't like her.
No one spoke. For a minute or two it seemed like the cyan Pegasus was going to scream at them again, but she seemed content to glare at the Iron Warriors. Zuko saw Lorkhan raise a hand to his brow, flicking it outward in a thankful salute that could almost have been genuine. It served no apparent purpose besides enraging the Pony further, and gritting her teeth she accelerated away in a burst of rainbow light. The rest of the Pegasi followed suit, heading back to where Zuko supposed the castle must be. The Iron Warriors for their part still stared gormlessly at the sky, unsure of whether the past few hours had just happened.
Just as Zuko began to turn away, something in the sky caught his eye. One of the Pegasi had returned, seemingly ignorant of the intentions of its fellows. The Xenos was a dark grey colour with blonde hair, and magnifying again the Marines could see that her eyes were not centred, instead rolling around at lazy angles. To Zuko's surprise, a goofy smile broke out across the Ponies' face as it-or she, he supposed-stared down at the Iron Warriors. Irritatingly, the Champion found it strangely infectious. The Pony began to wave furiously at the Astartes, still grinning innocently. Zuko's arm moved without his conscious consent, awkwardly returning the wave. His brothers were doing the same; even the Obliterators raised their Power Talons to the little alien. Seconds later, the blue angry pony jetted back, grabbed her waving friend, and with another angry glance at the Iron Warriors zoomed off with her charge in tow. The Iron Warriors lowered their hands, some letting out breaths they didn't realise they had been holding.
"So," Lorkhan started, seeking to break the tension. Zuko walked closer, his brain still reeling. "They can control the weather." The Warsmith looked at Mordecai, tapping a finger to his chin. When he spoke, his voice sounded almost petulant.
"Why can't WE do that?" |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Hermanos | "No".
He stumbled backwards, not wanting to believe what he saw was real. His brothers-or, more accurately, his warriors-shuffled uneasily towards him; they did not know whether to catch and support their lord, or to give him distance. Either way they would have helped little. What they all saw had shocked them almost beyond reason too.
He looked around desperately, seeking anything to betray this as a terrible ruse. The shattered chamber loomed over him like a great stone beast, cracked walls and shattered glass only serving to contribute to the inherent wrongness of what lay before him. Moonlight streamed into the room, playing off his steel-tinted armour and illuminating darkened stairwell and hidden crevices.
By his side, the bare-headed warrior roared, gauntleted fist crashing into the dark stonework. It left a scar, like the aftermath of an artillery blast or the impact of a drop pod crashing to the earth. To his right the horned warrior fumed and shook with rage and disbelief in equal measure, the contours of his ancient and battle-worn helm concealing the widened eyes and pale face that must surely lie within. The sorcerer paced back and forth, fingers steepled in front of him as he shook his head in a vain attempt to reconcile with what he saw. For once, there was no disgustingly optimistic outlook, or caustically smug remark. Of the five who led this host only the largest was unmoved; the stillness born of inhuman control over his body. No power talons flexed in anticipation or snarling gun barrel morphed into being, for what use would it have been? The daemon-man stood and watched, and for the first time in a long time, the lord of Obliteration sighed.
"NO.
He would not believe it. He had been expecting many things, but never this. It was wrong on every level. Mechatendrils snapped and hissed with their own depraved sentience, coiling around the extremities of his finely wrought war plate in a vain attempt to console their maker. He shook them off with barely contained disgust, sinking to his knees. No Astartes recognised despair, or would ever give in to depression. Yet in that moment, he knew what the mortal vermin must have felt when they saw the craft baring the iron skull descend upon their lines and begin the cull. He knew what it was to feel hopeless.
"No, no, no."
The words were a mantra, yet they offered naught but cold comfort. It was a disgrace to let his warriors see him like this, he knew full well, and no doubt one of them would make a lunge for power later due to this apparent show of weakness. But try as he might it would have been wrong to deny himself this anger. He cursed everything; Celestia, for sending him on this fool's errand. The warrior of the fifteenth legion, for consigning him to Equestria and not having the decency to just die like the rest of his bastard kin. Horus, for failing to cast down the False Emperor and suggesting this wretched existence to them. His own father, for going along with it.
On his knees in the throne room of a dead keep, Warsmith Lorkhan gave in to the hate that only a Chaos Space Marine could feel. Not once did he ever stop staring at what he saw before him.
The dragon stared back, blank eye sockets promising vengeance and fire for betrayal on black sands.
It had taken them almost two hours of solid walking to reach the castle. It hadn't been designated as the destination, and by the time they did finally approach it the sun had long since set, but it was as good a lead as any. Warp knows Lorkhan had needed one right about then.
Even were they to approach during the day, Lorkhan doubted it would have been much more inviting. Although the little accident with the fire that the Iron Warriors had caused had reduced a considerable proportion of the forest's tree quota to blackened and twisted husks, they had at least been a constant presence that were reassuring in their mediocrity, even if they did make navigation somewhat difficult.
Here though, the treeline had thinned considerably. Foliage still peeled off to either side, yet the path seemed to open up, drawing the Iron Warriors along to whatever lay at its end. The Astartes had been suspicious, yet at the same time secretly satisfied; this had all the feeling of a trap, and that meant they were probably getting somewhere. The grass underneath was a darker shade than that which they'd seen before, although without their genetically enhanced senses and advanced helmet optics, the mist that had descended almost without warning and now clung to the warband and everything around them like a deranged lover would have made it impossible to see any such detail. Rorke had taken every opportunity to bemoan the "fucking horse bastards" that had cost him his helm, Forced into advancing slower and more methodically than his brothers. In a shocking development, it turned out none of them cared.
It was not just what they saw that had put the Iron Warriors more and more on edge. The animal noises, that before had been shrill but not directly threatening, had subsided almost entirely. Only the occasional skittering of claws on stone from the shadows reminded them that they were not the only living things in the forest. Lorkhan almost wished for a second round with the wooden wolf-beasts he had fought earlier; anything to break the feeling of discomfort that had nestled stubbornly within his consciousness.
When they finally reached the castle, it took them universally by surprise. Even Mordecai seemed taken off guard by the appearance of what, to the IV Legion's expert eyes, seemed to be a place of defence. Oh it was no Iron Cage, not even close, but it was at the very least more serviceable than the castle they had been incarcerated in was. Or, at the very least, it would have been had it still been in one piece. It stood alone on a spur of rock located on the other bank of a vast crevice, the moon shining unobstructed over it. There were some trees, their leaves a peculiar shade of lilac, standing to one flank, which seemed odd considering the state the castle itself was in. The entire roof was missing, and pillars stuck out at jaunty angles that offended the craftsmen in Lorkhan. Much of the stonework was dilapidated, though whether it had been carved out by honest iron, the simple passing of age or other, more sinister means the Warsmith couldn't tell.
Spanning the gap across the drop was a rickety-looking wooden bridge. It was a futile exercise to try and identify its age, and if there was any sort of underlying weakness within it: Lorkhan had never been good with wood. From what he could tell through the gloom, it was almost certainly past its prime, but not yet unusable. A calculated risk, as it were. Because there just hadn't been enough of those today.
"So how are we going to do this?" Zuko asked. His voice was cold and weary, but not hostile.
"More to the point, how do we even know that's where we need to be?" Rorke added through gritted teeth.
"I know. It has to be." Lorkhan answered, not bothering to dignify Rorke with a more detailed answer.
From the nods, it seems his brothers agreed.
Turning back to his problem, Lorkhan cocked his head to one side and drummed his fingers on the side of his helmet. Tentatively, he stepped forward and placed a ceramite boot on the bridge, conscious of his warrior's eyes upon him. The creaking and swaying of the structure was all the encouragement he need to speedily retract his foot as if he'd just stepped in a particularly odious shit. Disappointed groans echoed from behind, causing his Mechatendrils to snap round and hiss defensively. Taking a deep breath, he fought to curb his spikes of frustration. They were right to be annoyed.
"Zere must be something zat ve can do." Vortun mused, lumbering closer to the edge.
"If you see it, feel free to share." Lorkhan replied, voice dripping with sarcasm. His eyes wandered to the side as Mordecai crouched, running a finger over a patch of bare ground.
"I say, do you chaps remember the Stonewrought?" He said. His voice was distant, chirpy almost. It was nauseating.
"'Stonewrought?'" Lorkhan asked in a monotone voice, humouring his brother. He spread his arms wide in a gesture of incomprehension, palms turned upwards.
"Vull Bron." Mordecai went on, not looking up. "Soltarn Vull Bron. 45th Company. They used to say he knew every intricacy of any kind of stone he came upon, with but a single touch. I must say that I never took him to be a true Psyker per se, but his knowledge of the geological spectrum was truly awe-inspiring." The sorcerer stood, folding his arms over his breastplate. Lorkhan gave him a glare that was only slightly less withering than a dust storm.
"Did that...have a point?" he asked, fighting to keep his voice moderated. Mordecai gave a bass chuckle, shaking his head.
"Do not think on it, lord. I was merely curious." He looked at the bridge with what appeared to be a mix of contemplation and amusement. "I trust that I do not need to impose that we cannot turn back now?"
In any other warband, Mordecai would probably have been killed a long time ago for impudence. It was only Lorkhan's familiarity with him, a brotherhood stretching back to the Great Crusade, that allowed him to speak as such to the company's ruler.
"No, you don't." Lorkhan spat. A moment's silence passed as he wracked his brain for a solution. "What about your magic? Could you make a bridge or something?"
"Alas, whilst the strategy has merit my lord I fear I could not support our combined weight upon a cushion of air, sorcery and hope alone." Mordecai said, sounding slightly apologetic. Lorkhan gave an exasperated grunt, kicking a small rock over the cliff edge as his idea similarly fell away. Finding the castle was worthless if they could not reach it. It felt like the Gods had given him a bolter with one hand, and punched him in the throat with the other.
And then taken away the bolter.
Before he could complain any more, another idea struck him. He walked to the mouth of the bridge again, tilting his head to the other side and widening his arms as if measuring something. He could feel his Champions' gazes burn into his back. Rorke had probably raised an eyebrow.
When he was satisfied, he turned back to the Iron Warriors. They all watched him expectantly, though some with considerably more reverence than others. It was hard to supress a guffaw at his own expense; the answer was so obvious, it was criminal he hadn't thought of it earlier. He turned to look at Vortun and his brothers, the Obliterators straightening as best they could under his scrutiny. Jerking a thumb over his right shoulder, Lorkhan nodded. Vortun creased what was left of his ever-mutating brow in what he must have interpreted as confusion, before returning a dip of the torso as comprehension struck him.
The two silent Obliterators lumbered forwards, pushing their way with no semblance of tact or grace through the crowd of Iron Warriors. They each take one side of the bridge, looking down at it in what appears to be a dull stupor. Still, they comply. Each one grips one of the ropes attaching the bridge to secure stone posts with a surprisingly gentle touch, and heaves. The posts were torn from the ground, leaving the bridge suspended very slightly in mid-air.
Zuko approached tentatively, looking at the bridge, then down at the thousands of kilometre drop below, before slowly returning his gaze to the bridge. Finally, he turns to look at the Warsmith. When he speaks his voice is tinged with the vaguest hint of panic.
"You're not...I mean, you aren't seriously suggesting we walk across this, are you?"
Lorkhan shrugged. "Yes, Zuko, as a matter of fact I am. It's wide enough for one of us."
"But how do you even know that it can support our weight?"
"I don't." Lorkhan took a moment of satisfaction as he felt Zuko tense beside him. With a dark chuckle he looked back at the castle, raising his voice as he did.
"Off you go then, Rorke."
From the swearing, it was clear the other champion was audibly put out. Yet the Warsmith knew he wouldn't say no, either; the sound of power armoured elbows crashing against ceramite, and gauntleted hands slapping pauldrons in a display of almost sincere comradeship meant that to back down would be to lose any shred of respectability he might have. The Champion moved forward slowly before, with a murderous glance at Lorkhan (who merely gave an innocent wave) Rorke stepped up on to the bridge.
It wobbled precariously, and the Iron Warrior swore again in every tongue he knew as he shot his arms out to steady himself. Yet it did not break, and that was a victory in itself. The Obliterators pulled back slightly to tighten their grip on the rope, but otherwise gave no sign of any discomfort. Steadying his breathing, and wary of Lorkhan and the rest having watchful eyes on him, Rorke took a slow step forward. Again the bridge creaked, but held fast. The other Iron Warriors watched in silence; despite any personal animosity, they were not a Legion inclined towards either celebrating their brother's endeavours or mocking their failures if they had nothing to gain from it. His confidence building, Rorke began to speed up, although he was always careful not to put too much stress on the old wooden beams.
Eventually, after around ten minutes Rorke made it across, punching the air as he set foot back on terra firma. There were some half-hearted grunts and nods of approval, and many Astartes let out breaths they didn't know they were holding. With the exception of a single plank that came loose hallway across, tumbling into the raging waters deep below, the bridge had managed to stay more or less intact. Any celebrations were short lived as another Marine, Kayn, stepped up to the plate. After him went Basikor, who had perpetually miserable since his beloved icon was taken from him and grumbled the whole way across.
In around an hour and a half, all the power-armoured marines had made it across, Lorkhan bringing up the rear. Some had gone considerably faster than others, bounding across and shattering planks with wild abandon. Yet, even Zuko (who had attempted to sprint the whole way, nearly losing his footing at the end and only being saved by a quickly outstretched hand from brother Aleksos) managed to traverse the gap in one bridge. If Lorkhan was honest there had come a moment where he feared that, his additional armour coupled with the already weakened wood, the bridge would not have been able to support him and he would have the dubious honour of being the only one to hurtle into the rocks below, the hysterical laughter of his brothers ringing in his ears the last thing he ever heard. Fortunately though it seemed the Great Schemer had smiled upon him for once. He didn't plan on questioning it.
On the far side the Obliterators that had been supporting the bridge placed the stumps back into the ground, affixing it there as best they could. It was clear that there was no way the bridge would take them, even had they been able to fit on it comfortably. For once, though, the Warsmith had actually made a plan to deal with just this eventuality.
"Mordecai, if you please." He said. The sorcerer sighed, and when he spoke there was an uncharacteristic trace of trepidation.
"Lord, I do not wish to disappoint you once again, but as I said prior I am not sure my power is sufficient to hold our blessed brothers aloft."
"You did it before. When we broke out the castle, you did it then."
"I merely slowed their descent then, if you recall. To actually defy gravity itself is considerably more challenging."
"Try." The Warsmith's voice was cold, brooking no argument, Mordecai looked at him for a moment longer, seeking any purchase he could find. When it was apparent that none was forthcoming, he gave a sad sigh, flexed his fingers, and began to marshal his sorcery.
A platform of roiling purple light materialised over the gap just in front of the Obliterators, causing them to look down upon it with some disdain. Warily, Vortun placed a giant foot upon it. Mordecai let out a pained breath as he did so, fingers curling into claws under the foot. Two Iron Warriors moved behind him, arms extended to hold the warlock up if needs be. Recognising the need for haste, the Obliterators stepped wholeheartedly on to the glowing pedestal. Contracting his arms, Mordecai beckoned them closer. Reality began to shift and flow ever so slightly wrong around him as he poured more power into the spell. Lorkhan's Mechatendrils recoiled in what must have been their approximation of alarm.
For the second time that day it appeared the Gods smiled upon the IV Legion. The Obliterators were transported across the gap more or less efficiently, although Vortun still impatiently tapped his power talon on his shin the whole way. As they stepped off on to solid ground, this time eliciting a real coarse cheer from their lesser brethren, the platform upon which they had travelled twisted and then popped out of existence. Mordecai gasped and sagged to his knees as the spell broke, coughing and retching painfully. Lorkhan looked down at his brother with an irritating spike of concern worming its way into his mind-he had seen Mordecai perform greater feats than this. It must be this place; the touch of the warp was strong, yet it was also held back and cut off by something intangible. Part of him had the worrying suspicion that it was friendship, as a physical concept. He couldn't tell where this feeling came from, but he didn't like it.
The two Astartes that had been attending Mordecai moved to haul him back to his feet, with exactly zero evidence of any fraternal affection. The sorcerer shrugged them off with one arm, unsteadily rising back to his feet. With another wheezing cough, enhanced biology rushing out to combat any damage done, Mordecai gave Lorkhan a nod. His helmet lenses blazed with an eerie internal light-no doubt the last few witch fires generated by his spell dispelling-and it suddenly struck Lorkhan that his brother was as much a champion of the dark gods as he was. He nodded back.
"Never make me do zat again." Vortun sulked, striding forward towards the castle. Their ordeal over most of the Iron Warriors followed suite, and Lorkhan had to push his way back to the front of the pack. Before them lay a huge set of wooden doors, rising even above their heads. They must have dwarfed the ponies. A rough semi-circle was formed around them, the Warsmith taking place at its centre. For a moment he considered merely heaving the doors open with his own strength, or even knocking, but the notion was swiftly dismissed. Whatever they had to kill was most likely in there, and the Iron Warriors had never been a subtle breed. As if reading his thoughts, Vortun primed an ancient and corrupted Plasma Cannon, the same he'd used in the throne room. His kin spawned similar weapons, and for their part the rest of the Marines dropped into fighting crouches.
"You realise that anything in there is going to hear this racket we're making, and will almost certainly try to murder us within seconds?" Zuko hissed, sounding only half-joking. But he didn't seem opposed to the idea.
"You remember what Father used to say." Lorkhan answered, flexing his fists. "'Tell them ruin has come to their world. Tell them the Angels of Death have come. Tell them nothing can save them now.'"
With that, the plasma coils on Vortun's cannon began to glow and thrum with power. He screwed up one eye in a mock-aim, and when he spoke his voice was as close to a whisper as an Obliterator could get.
"Knock knock."
The doors flew off their hinges as the ball of white-hot plasma seared through them, the energy transfer far too much for them to handle. The steaming and charred remains skidded to a halt upon the flagstones within with an almighty crash, and was soon followed by a pack of roaring Iron Warriors. Screaming their battle cries they charged in heedless of the danger, thankful to finally be getting to grips with a foe.
In that, they were to be disappointed.
The room was devoid of life. Worse than that, there seemed to be a physical absence of it. Not just being uninhabited, the castle could not have been described with any word other than 'deserted'. A gust of cold wind ran over the Astartes' armour as their charge lost momentum, and they stopped awkwardly as they took in the scene around them. The roof was completely gone here, leaving them open to the air. Pillars circled the room, many of them overgrown with ivy or other plant life. Varvillon, the Iron Warrior who had identified the strange blue plant earlier, moved cautiously over to them, running the flora through his fingers. There were great, black arched windows, yet where stained glass had clearly once resided now there were only the metal frames left. It was even more of a ruin from the inside than it had been from the out. No, worse than that; it was a dump.
Something hooted overhead, causing Zuko to jump back a pace. Lorkhan ignored the angered growls of the other Iron Warriors, working hard enough to hold back his own fury. It couldn't be abandoned, it just couldn't. That was beyond a joke. Mordecai had moved to the side of the room, taking a seat on a window ledge and giving a disappointed sigh. Any sympathy the Warsmith had had for him quickly dissipated.
"So that's it." That snarling voice could only belong to one if their number, and Lorkhan found he couldn't be angry with him; he knew Rorke was just voicing what the rest of the felt. He didn't turn to look at the Champion.
"Of course. Of course it is." Rorke went on. "So we come all this way, nearly get ourselves killed on three separate occasions, at the order of a bloody Xenos, and now-after all this-we have precisely shit all to show for it. She's probably sat up there in her deluxe castle playset laughing down at us right now."
"I'm sure he's doing his best." Varvillon called from across the room, still engrossed with his plants. The scoff came from Zuko this time.
"Oh, that's all right then. Thanks for clearing that up Var." The Champion's voice was laden with sarcasm and anger in equal measure. "We're hopelessly lost and have been barking up the wrong tree for the past two hours, and the one lead we get turns out to be another useless heap of ruined junk in what is starting to feel like a cunning metaphor for our whole lives-but it's okay, because he's doing his best. Right. Okay then. Good on you, sir."
Lorkhan seriously considered executing Zuko right now, if only to restore some order, but he had never seen himself as being particularly petty-an in all honesty, his brother had a point.
"There will be something. There has to be. Somewhere in this castle." He said, trying to placate them. He still did not turn to look at them, refusing to get angry. It wasn't enough for Rorke.
"'Somewhere'? You are joking, right? So it's 'somewhere'. Maybe. Possibly. Face it, Lorkhan. We're lost, and we have nothing to go on. It's highly likely this 'Great Evil' we've been sent to destroy doesn't even exist, and they're just using this as an excuse to get us out the way whilst they plan a particularly inventive death for us upon our return. Once again we're doing other people's bidding, and once again we're expected not to question orders as we stumble in to a drop. We need to face facts here; your 'brilliant' scheme has failed in every respect, except perhaps getti-"
Now he could get angry.
The blow came out of nowhere, fast even by Astartes standards. Rorke did not even have time to finish his sentence as the back of the ceramite gauntlet slammed into his cheek, hurling him to the ground. The Iron Warrior went down hard, grunting as he thudded into the stone. The others reflexively flinched back, bringing their fists up without thinking. Lorkhan's Mechatendrils snapped into a similarly defensive position, though the arm that had delivered the backhand slap was still extended. The Warsmith glared down at the prone Astartes, practically spitting his words.
"Shut up."
A few moments later, Rorke pulled himself back to his feet, muttering and rubbing his shattered cheek. He grinned unrepentantly at Lorkhan, teeth covered in rich coppery blood; the Primarch's blood. Lorkhan still did not take his eyes off him, but said not a single word. Mordecai and Zuko just watched, seeming equally as tired of such infighting. Finally, the tension defused, and Lorkhan lowered his arm as Rorke stepped back into the ranks of his fellows.
Maintaining his silence, Lorkhan turned back towards the castle's chamber, his eyes suddenly registering the altar that stood before him. He wondered how he had not seen it earlier, such was its size and dominating presence. It was a squat thing, imposing in its stature, and Lorkhan found himself doubting how the ponies could have sculpted such a thing with only their mouths to manipulate tools. The altar took the form of a smaller pillar rising from the floor, the top curiously devoid of any sort of crowning sculpture or dome as he would expect. Five more pedestals extended outwards from the pillar, each one also vacant. The Warsmith looked it up and down, trying to deduce the significance of it.
Whilst intriguing, it didn't look to have any answers relevant to why they were here. Great. The Warsmith pushed past it, temper building once more. The rest of the ruined castle seemed to be standard fair; stairs leading up, gargoyles carved into the pillars, not unlike the castles supposed to have existed upon ancient Terra. Yet with every echoing step, the silence began to play more and more on Lorkhan's mind. Besides the Iron Warriors, only the wind moved. It was too quiet, too disconcerting. Something had happened here-of that, he was convinced.
His eyes were drawn back to the plinth as he slowly wandered towards the very end of the opening chamber. Now it was there, it was all he could see. His brothers had begun to examine it too, some giving experimental prods with the tips of their fingers. Lorkhan found himself growing more and more agitated with every passing moment, the silence and stillness unnatural and disturbing. Cursing himself for such weakness, he breathed deeply and leant back on the wall at the hallway's end.
The bricks shifted and tumbled, spinning end over end as they fell. The Warsmith would have fallen himself, had his armour's snake like tendrils not shot out to clamp him firmly to the wall. The bricks fell further and further, bouncing off the wall as they fell into the dark. Lorkhan cursed under his breath, before turning to examine the hole.
The rest of his brothers, the noise catching their attention, had come to join him. They too peered over his shoulder into the inky depths, Rorke giving a grudging whistle of awe. After two minute shad passed since Lorkhan had made the opening, a thud resounded from the pit, signalling the bricks had hit the bottom.
Not even the advanced optics of his helmet could penetrate the dark, only revealing more and more shadow. As he looked, a thought struck Lorkhan. Ensuring he was secured firmly to the wall, he leaned out over the gap, breath catching in his throat involuntarily as he did so. Turning to look up, the Warsmith found the moon staring back down at him. The roofless castle had had its very body punched through by...the Iron Warrior had no idea. Surely a meteor of some kind, what else could cause that much damage?
Then, something curious happened. A horned helmet poked out over the lip of the hole above Lorkhan, its plate the colour of iron. The Iron Warrior tilted his head to the side in what seemed to be an amused gesture, before slamming a clenched fist over his primar heart in salute and beckoning some of his brothers over. Under his helmet Lorkhan scowled, opening a vox link to the Marine.
"What in the hells are you doing up there Kayn?" he growled, still staring up at the three Astartes. Kayn shrugged, whilst beside him one of his brothers waved.
"Zuko got bored of waiting around and decided to take a look upstairs."
With a pained sigh, Lorkhan retracted himself from over the gap to the stares of his brothers. He was about to open another channel to Zuko when his helmet vox crackled into life. The Champion had beat him to it, but the voice that reverberated down from the other end sounded...out of character, to say the least.
"Sir...you need to get up here. As in, right now."
It would have been wrong to say that Zuko sounded scared. No Astartes ever did. But there was definitely an audible tremor of disquiet in his voice, the sound of a mind racing to keep up with what it was seeing. It was enough to tip Lorkhan over into paranoia.
"Brother...are you alright?"
"I mean it Lorkhan. You...you need to see this."
The trademark snarkiness was gone completely. Coupled with the none-mocking use of his real name, Lorkhan had all the encouragement he needed. He pushed past his brothers, unconsciously breaking into a small run as he bounded up the staircase towards the top of the castle. He heard his men behind him, trying to keep up yet not able to pass on the single file stairwell.
In short order he reached the top of the stairs, coming into another large chamber. It was much like the one below in terms of ornamentation, however there was no statue in the middle of the room. Instead, at the end of the room lay a small raised platform that must once have been a dais of some kind. However, any throne that once stood there was long gone, as whatever had struck the castle had born down directly upon this platform. The crater had gouged straight through the dark skies and plummeted down, down into the castle's deeper darkness, its secrets held in the depths.
None of that was of interest to Lorkhan. He focused on the group of four Iron Warriors huddled together in a corner, standing as still as statues. They huddled around something, staring down gormlessly, faces unreadable behind their iron masks. The fact that there hadn't reacted to their brother's arrival at all said enough.
"What?" Lorkhan asked, any snideness or fraternal joviality dropped from his voice. The Iron Warriors still did not turn to look at him. Agitated, the Warsmith began to walk towards them. "What?" He repeated.
As he approached, the four turned to look at him, still in silence. He saw that one of them held what looked like a sheet of metal, the unpainted side facing towards him. No...not metal. The closer Lorkhan looked, the more it started to remind him of ceramite.
But it couldn't be. That was impossible.
Zuko came to stand besides Lorkhan. He seemed to be shaking ever so slightly, but the Warsmith had had about as much suspense as he could take for one night.
"Would someone tell me what the FUCK is going on?" he roared, sending some of the Marines stood behind him that had followed him up jumping back. Zuko did not respond or even move for a moment. Then, with agonising and deliberate slowness, he pointed at the sheet of ceramite as his brother flipped it over to reveal what was on the other side.
What was left of Lorkhan's blood ran cold. He reached for a weapon that didn't exist. For once, he heard Mordecai swear, short and soft and shocked. It was a sentiment he echoed entirely.
"No."
The Dragon glared back at him, seeming to grin all the while.
Fire. It remembered fire.
Sensors flashed into life as it dragged itself into wakefulness. A leg creaked and whined, protesting under the stress. He ignored it, willed it forward. It did not hurt. Only the fire burned.
It wasn't real fire. The last time it had felt real fire was...was a long time ago. But the memory of the fire, and why it had burned him so; that never faded.
10%...20%...30%...more. The world burned back into focus, all the lights and sounds that came with it burning bright to. Except they didn't. There was no light. There was no sound. Nothing but the dark.
How had it got itself into such dark? Had it come here itself? Probably. It remembered falling, tumbling down and down into the dark. Something hissed and steamed. It ignored it, pushing against its confinement, searching for a way out of a prison that didn't exist.
Noise.
The sound of something striking the ground. Small, far off, but its hearing could always pick it up. Even when it had breathed it would have heard. It could not escape now.
The tomb closed in even more. It ignored that sensation, ignored the claustrophobia, as it focused on the noise. Could it be...brothers?
After all this time? Had they come back? An arm swung, the hand that was not a hand scraping on the rocks. No hands. No art to forge, metal to bend.
It reached out with its eye that was no an eye, its invisible third eye as it took a ponderous step forward. The footfall echoed, ringing off the stone walls. The sensor travelled far, giving nothing, receiving nothing. Only silence and dark.
It stepped again and again and again. Silence and dark, silence and dark, silence and dark.
On the fifth step forward, the sensor came back with something else.
It looked, turning over the reading, hoping and praying for some respite. The feeling was not this. It was not relief, not disappointment. It burned. Burned like the fire. Had burned for years and years and years now. It took more steps, quicker steps, the need to burn eclipsing all others.
Not brothers. The signatures from their armour was wrong. Their vox network was wrong. Still not keyed, still the same. Even after all this time they had never changed.
Not brothers.
Cousins.
"Okay."
Lorkhan rose back to his feet, quelling the panic that had briefly flared up within him. "Okay."
Rorke, Mordecai, Vortun and Zuko were still plainly put out. The discovery had affected them all. It was still affecting Lorkhan, but he did his best to hide it. "So...so it's them?"
It took a second for any of them to be able to respond. Then, finally, Mordecai piped up. "It...it certainly looks that way, lord. The XVIII."
The XVIII Legion. The Salamanders. Even back in the Crusade, when Perturabo's sons had fought for the same cause as the Nocturneans, they had always had a strained relationship. The IV was too callous, too focused on arithmetic and uncaring of who got in their way of their brutal martial calculations for the weak-bellied sons of Vulkan. Likewise, the Salamanders' need to nurture and coddle mortals had tested the Lord of Iron's patience considerably. At Istvaan this enmity had boiled over, released into a killing rage on the battlefield. The mutual dislike was neither the age old rivalry with the Imperial Fists, nor Lorkhan's personal hate for the Dark Angels. But it still burned hot, and Lorkhan had killed many Fireborn that day. They'd killed many Iron Warriors too.
"How...I mean...how is this possible?" He spluttered, trying to maintain a cool head. Now he looked, there were more sundered strips of green armour scattered around the room. They looked to have been taken from the side of a drop pod, broken as it slammed into the floor.
"I honestly have no idea, Lord."Mordecai replied, his composure returning slowly too. "By all rights they should not be here. WE should not be here."
"But they are. I mean...this looks like a drop pod. Surely the bastard Xenos would have seen this and already investigated? And more to the point, where's the rest of the Pod?"
"I..." The sorcerer crouched again, examining the drop pod plating. "To answer your second question, perhaps it broke up as it fell. Even at those speeds a fall would not necessarily kill the Salamanders. Furthermore, this damage seems fairly new. Under a year old, at least. The Ponies they still do not know what we are; perhaps they merely mistook it for a meteor?"
That made an annoying amount of sense, and Lorkhan chose to disregard the details until they had more evidence So, the Salamanders were here. It was almost poetic.
"And you think they're the 'great evil' we're meant to destroy?" Lorkhan asked, turning towards the hole in the floor. Mordecai took his time before answering.
"Well...it is clear they have not left this keep, and I can't see the XVIII having the stomach to do anything outwardly aggressive. But I struggle to see what else it could be."
"Right then." Lorkhan answered. Apprehension had given way to excitement. He may have had no weapons, but there were Salamanders to kill. That was the one thing in this whole fucked-up adventure that had made sense so far. "What's that thing they say?"
"Sir?" Mordecai sounded bemused.
"Never mind, I remember." He was already running. "'Into the Fires of Battle. Unto the Anvil of War.'"
Before his brothers could stop him, Lorkhan had crossed the distance, and leapt down into the dark.
He landed in a kneeling crouch, leg folded beneath him and head angled pointing towards the ground. The drop was not as large as he'd anticipated. Good. The murky blackness was all around him, swallowing and engulfing the Warsmith. He rose back to his full height, flicking on a torch-light built into helmet as he did so. The shadows were pealed back by the beam's harsh glare, illuminating the rocky passageway that Lorkhan realised must stretch far beneath the castle.
He had landed with a heavy thud; not rock, but the sound of metal striking ceramite. Looking around more thoroughly, Lorkhan could see that where he stood was actually the inside of a drop pod. The top had been blown off and the doors seemingly melted clean away, what was left cast in a sorry heap at the Warsmith's side. The rear doors hadn't opened, probably still pressed up against the walls of rock. Well, at least some of his questions were answered; the pod had crashed through the castle's floor with a clean impact, finally coming to rest as its energy had dissipated. Now that he thought about it, though, he couldn't see any of the restraint harnesses that were typical of Imperial drop pods. Curious.
He was no great student of geology, but two things struck him instantly. Firstly, the cave passageway was artificially made. Something had hollowed it out; likely the Salamanders themselves, judging by the solidified lumps of what would have been molten slag found at the base of the walls. Melta-weaponry, probably. Typical. The second thing he noticed was the sheer size; it was colossal, even to him. The cave was easily twice Lorkhan's height, and numerous times as wide. Lorkhan still agreed that, based on the evidence, the Throne-loyal Astartes could not have been here for too long-probably a year, at most-but the passageway they'd carved out here must have been a mammoth undertaking. The Warsmith couldn't help but wonder how they'd done it, even if they did have access to meltaguns.
Mordecai's words about Vull Bron floated back to him. He'd scoffed at the time, dismissing it as irrelevant. Now it seemed almost precognisant.
The Warsmith's reverie was broken by the arrival of his brothers. Zuko and Mordecai had dropped down into the hole as he had, landing in a crouch as well. Rorke, Barbus and the rest of the power armoured Marines were not long after, the sounds of their impact booming and echoing down the cavern. They hurriedly cleared a landing zone as the Obliterators brought up the rear, each one of their descents reverberating like a miniature explosion as it hit. The Iron Warriors turned to look at the sorry remnants of the green drop pod, many with a derisive snort on their lips.
"Well, if they have chosen to hide in this hole, at least they know we're here." Zuko remarked, some of the deadpan humour returning to his voice. Lorkhan mumbled something that might have been an agreement, before setting off along the passageway at a brisk pace.
"Whilst your enthusiasm is heartening, my lord, I feel we should perhaps proceed with a tad more surreptitiousness." Mordecai voxed, jogging to keep up with the Warsmith. Lorkhan ignored him as he walked on, the promise of killing Salamanders almost overwhelming. It was catharsis, a release from the helplessness the Iron Warriors had been subjected to ever since they'd arrived on this planet.
Every Marine was on alert, even without their weapons. The Obliterators had spawned fearsome Heavy Flamers into their arm mounts; ostensibly to deny the enemy the benefit of any cover in these cramped confines, but perhaps more so for the delicious irony of killing sons of Vulkan with fire. As they walked they remained prepared for any ambush that might come out of the dark confines of the cave; any Salamanders pressed up against the rock ready to strike.
But none did. After around fifteen minutes of walking, following the cave system round and round, the Iron Warriors emerged into a large, more open cavern, with several other passageways leading off it. This one seemed more natural than where they had just come from; water dripped ominously down from stalactites, and from what they could tell the walls were composed of a wide array of different rocks. Still there was silence. Lorkhan strode to the front of the group, hatred blazing inside of him. In the centre of the wide room, he threw his arms out to the side in challenge, tuning his helm's vox-projector so his voice was amplified to a ferocious roar.
"SALAMANDERS." It echoed down every cave, the voice repeating over and over again. "GUESS WHO?" There was still no reply. Lorkhan began to pace in circles, chuckling as he shouted. "COME NOW, MY DEAR BROTHERS, DID YOU MISS US? WE MISSED YOU." He stopped, laughing properly now. "Well...missed killing you." There was still no response. Lorkhan tilted his head to one side, quashing an irritated growl. "How is Vulkan, anyway?"
This time, something answered.
The sound of a heavy footfall rang around him, coming from one the caverns leading off into the dark. The Iron Warriors flinched nervously, looking around in vain for the source. The smile that had worked its way across Lorkhan's face dropped as his mind ran the maths. That was too loud to be any normal Marine. That was too loud to even be a Terminator. Only one thing made the world shake when it walked, and could still fit down here.
Another step, then another, then another. A tinny and static-leaden howl hit Lorkhan, full of betrayal and anger. Slowly, the thing pulled itself out of the dark, emerging into the artificial light the Iron Warriors had cast into the large chamber. As one the Iron Warriors took a hurried step back, trying desperately to push the Obliterators to the front. Only Lorkhan was unmoved, and so only he saw the thing in its entirety.
Green armour plating covered its armoured form head to toe, wrapping around the sarcophagus and chipped with wear and age. Two mighty piston driven legs carried it forward into the light. Either one of them could have crushed an unarmoured man to paste without breaking stride; even with his armour, Lorkhan didn't rate his chances highly. One arm was shaped as a human hand, but far bigger, the pilot light of a mounted flamer just visible underneath the crushing talons of the power fist. On the other arm hung a worn Multi-melta, the metal barrels scorched an unhealthy brown from use. The fuel canister stuck out awkwardly, one seemingly almost knocked completely out of place. Even under the scratched paint, masterfully wrought designs of anvils and coiling dragons could be made out, the sculpted flames forming a fiery crown around the helmet built onto the Sarcophagus. Two red eyes stared out, regarding the Warsmith with barely-contained loathing.
It was a Salamanders Contemptor Dreadnought, an immortal champion of the XVIII Legion come to slay the Iron Warriors for their sins. Worse, judging by the name elegantly scrawled across the parchment that lined the front of the sarcophagus, it was a Salamander that Lorkhan knew.
"Hello, Nu'val." Lorkhan said wearily, as the great beast roared once again. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | The Anvil | He turned the helmet over in his hands, the glowing visors of his own battle-gear meeting its dead ones. Even now, held tightly by the Iron Warrior in the belly of the Storm Eagle, the vox-grille seemed to snarl at him; fitting, the Astartes mused, when its original owner was considered.
"You shouldn't have taken that." The voice hadn't come through the vox, the Marine in question not bothering to keep the discussion private. Lorkhan looked up from the helmet and turned towards the warrior that had addressed him; they were strapped into adjacent harnesses, two of the twenty located in the craft's main bay. The bulky engines of their jump packs were still affixed to their backs, causing the Iron Warriors to have to stoop over uncomfortably. The other 4 Marines, all that remained of the Assault squad after the bitter fighting below, didn't turn at the sound of the voice. They probably didn't care.
"And you shouldn't presume to question your sergeant." Lorkhan reprimanded, looking back down at the helmet. "Besides, do you really think Angron would care what we do with his dead?"
It was a rhetorical question, but his brother-Sartak-didn't seem to get the message. "I don't much care what the Red Angel thinks, sergeant. But leave it to the Night Lords, or maybe Lorgar's zealots, to scavenge what they can get. Such action is beneath the Fourth Legion's standards. No half measures." He paused. "With all due respect, sir...we're not pirates."
With due respect or not, Sartak's words made him eligible for more serious censure. The Primarch undoubtedly would have taken a dim view of being compared to either the Night Haunter or the Urizen. But Sartak was one of Lorkhan's oldest brothers, and the already few in number Assault corps of the IV Legion had taken a battering in the battle they had just been fighting. On that basis, Lorkhan decided to overlook it. He kept his gaze focused on the helm's empty eye sockets.
"Sarum pattern." He said, idly. "A World Eater design. They're no Iron Warriors but occasionally they do make something of value. Look, you can tell from the mouth grille. It looks a lot less efficient than our Mk2, but their Primarch must have a reason for doing it." Beside him, Sartak scoffed.
"When does Angron ever provide a reason for doing anything?" Beneath his own helmet, Lorkhan scowled.
"Careful, brother." He'd only overlook so much. Sartak grunted an insincere apology, turning to stare back round the hold as it rattled and the engines roared with the strain of flying through Istvaan's ash-choked atmosphere. Lorkhan turned the helmet over and over again without paying attention, spotting something on its front.
"Look here." He pointed out, tracing a finger down one of the four red lines that ran across the top of the helmet. "They're a Twelfth Legion honour marking. Denotes that warrior has had those...well, whatever they are, implanted." The sergeant tapped his own forehead for emphasis. Sartak folded is arms across his chest, and leaned back as far as he could in what seemed like a gesture of contempt.
"Know many World Eaters personally do you sir?"
"They're not all barbarians, Sartak." Lorkhan answered, a hint of pettiness creeping into his voice. His brother gave chukled and shook his head, but said nothing. Lorkhan sighed, before hitting the release control on the wall next to his harness with an elbow and rising to his feet. Only one or two of the other Iron Warriors adjusted to look at him as he moved. Turning to place the chipped white helmet on his seat, Lorkhan gave Sartak another look.
"I'm going to talk to the pilot. I want to get off this rock." Sartak merely shrugged as way of response. Lorkhan sighed again, starting to walk towards the cockpit. His jump pack made moving a slight challenge, but the Storm Eagle's bay was wide enough to accommodate. He moved into the small corridor which led to the pilot's throne. Here Lorkhan could just about see out the front window, where what looked like black rain lashed furiously all around. Even within the metal craft, the sound of explosions and Astartes dying could be heard echoing from below. It had been at least two weeks since the drop-site massacre, but the Loyalists clung on tenaciously. As an Iron Warrior, Lorkhan could almost grudging admire that.
"Good day?" He asked the pilot, having to raise his voice to be heard above the winds that whistled all around.
"Acceptable." His brother answered, a degree of annoyance tinging his voice. It wasn't surprising; there were few in the Legion who appreciated Lorkhan's chattiness. Like Lorkhan the pilot's armour was a mix of silver and deep bronze, with the exception of a single red pauldron denoting his dual allegiance to Mars.
"What's our ETA for docking with the ship?" Lorkhan asked, affecting a more business-like tone. In the corner of his eye, he thought he saw something hurtled up the side of the windscreen.
"Approximately four hours." Said the pilot. "The Warsmith contacted us. He wishes to debrief you at the soonest convenience."
"Wonderful." Lorkhan answered, and not even the Mechanicum adept could have missed the sarcasm. "I'm sick of Istvaan anyway."
"Most of the Legion wouldn't agree." The pilot replied, still utterly focused on flying. "They want to stay, kill more loyalists."
"One, most likely two Primarchs are dead, with a third missing. The Raven Guard and Salamanders are not going to be getting back up from this anytime soon, whilst the Iron Tenth's veteran cadre is gone. We've lost too many valuable resources, ones we can't easily get back, and frankly I've seen enough ash to last me a bloody lifeti-"
He was cut off by the thudding sound on the roof. The Storm Eagle dipped slightly under the extra weight, and only now did the pilot look behind in a vain attempt to see what had caused it as he fought to climb back up. Lorkhan shot out a hand to steady himself on the wall, the other subconsciously moving to the hilt of his power sword. Curiously, force of habit had led to him locking his bolt pistol into the space provided in his harness, but he had kept his power sword. That was beginning to feel like a bad idea.
"I don't suppose there's any chance of that being Father dropping onto the roof to say a big well done and take us back home for some downtime?" Lorkhan deadpanned.
"No, there is not." The pilot answered. For the third time in ten minutes, Lorkhan gave a deep sigh.
"Get us climbing into orbit again. I'll go and deal with our guests." He turned, drawing his power sword and moving back towards the main hold. When he arrived he found the rest of his brothers had already formed the beginnings of a defensive line with bolt pistols raised, cramped though it was. On the roof a few feet metres in front of them, a large square was being cut by what looked like melta-beams. That they originated from the outside was clear.
"Isn't this thing supposed to have some kind of armoured ceramite?" Lorkhan hissed, pushing his way to the centre of the group.
"I don't think anyone's told them that." Sartak replied grimly, keeping his pistol level. Before Lorkhan could ask another question, the square that had been cut in the roof gave way and fell to the floor with a clang. The Iron Warriors readied their pistols, but for a moment nothing happened.
Lorkhan only just heard the clink of something deceptively small rattle on the floor.
"Grenade!" He screamed, but in the confined space it was not enough. Two of his squad were hurled backwards with the detonation, armour cracking and shrapnel piercing the comparatively soft flesh within. Sartak and the two assault marines that had kept their footing opened fire, bolts flying through the hatch. Amazingly one of them did score a hit, if the gargle of pain that sounded like a torn throat was anything to go by. Return fire from the outside stared; most of it was bolt shells that pinged off the Iron Warrior's armour, but a lance of melta-energy also joined the fusillade. It struck the Iron Warrior next to Lorkhan square in the chest. The sergeant swore as his brother fell to the face, a gaping and steaming hole punched clean through is armour.
They dropped down through the hole moments later, sensing the need to take the initiative. Four Salamander assault marines; apparently, they weren't willing to just lie down and die. They were clad in heavily artificed Mk4 armour, yet even with the more compact jump packs getting through the hole they had created was a squeeze. One fell prey to the obvious danger of entering such a cramped area, blown apart by accurate pistol fire from the Iron Warriors within. The remaining three spread out the best they could, disdaining the use of their pistols for brutal chains-weaponry. The last one through was armed differently. His armour was the most fantastically wrought of all, dragons and fiery symbols playing all over it with even his helmet shaped to resemble a snarling lizard. Across a shoulder guard was draped a green scaled hide, whilst the other bore his Legion's symbol. One hand clutched an infernus pistol, its barrel also shaped like a dragon's head, whilst the right held onto a obsidian-headed and crackling Thunder Hammer.
The two assault marines moved to engage Sartak, who for his part bellowed his Legion's creed as way of a battle cry and rushed to meet them. Snatching a pistol from his dead brethren, Lorkhan brought his power sword to life and charged the Salamander sergeant, a challenge of his own on his lips.
Bringing it down in an overhand sweep, the Salamander swung the Thunder Hammer straight at Lorkhan's head. The Iron Warrior only just had time to holster his pistol and grasp the sword handle with two hands to parry it. Even then, he was forced to one knee by the blow, muscles straining as he struggled against the hammer's descent. Lorkhan may have been a swordsman of some skill, but the Salamander had the advantage of raw strength, and in such an environment that counted for more.
"And who do I have the honour of sparring with?" Lorkhan asked through gritted teeth, lactic acid now coming on in force. By contrast, the Salamander didn't seem to be exerting any effort at all.
"Nu'val." The hulking green giant replied. "Assault Sergeant, 32nd Company, Eighteenth Legion." He applied more pressure, causing Lorkhan to grunt in pain. "A Legion you and your bastard kin have all but annihilated." A green armoured knee crashed up into Lorkhan's chest, drawing a splutter from the sergeant and sending him onto his front. The hammer fell with grim certainty, but the Iron Warrior's Astartes reflexes kicked in just in time and he rolled onto his side, barely missing the blow. Lashing out with a foot he connected with Nu'val's face, sending him stumbling back. Hitting the release button on his jump pack to afford himself greater mobility, Lorkhan shed the bulky contraption and stood, swinging his sword again.
The Salamander was forced on the defensive, using the hammer's shaft to block the sword blows. The energy fields sparked off each other, neither cutting through. Finally they attacked simultaneously, catching weapon arms in opposing hands and grappling until their faces were but a scant few centimetres apart.
"Why?" Nu'val growled. Lorkhan found it took him a moment to answer.
"The Emperor has betrayed us. Betrayed the whole Crusade."
"You lie."
"And you're ugly." Provoking him wasn't a good idea, but Lorkhan didn't care. The Salamander bellowed with anger as he pushed with renewed strength, almost overpowering the Iron Warrior. Lorkhan moved with the force, being carried towards the Storm Eagle's front hatch.
Behind him, Sartak slashed his chainsword across the last Salamander's throat and threw the choking Marine to the ground. He turned, blade at the ready. Before he could intervene Nu'val had all but thrown Lorkhan against the hatch, spinning and drawing his infernus pistol. The beam sliced through the air, striking Sartak in the head. The Iron Warrior crumpled to the ground, remnants of his skull and helmet dripping onto the floor.
Seeing his old comrade die brought another howl to Lorkhan's lips-one that was at odds with his Legion's cold, detached nature. He flung himself at the Salamander's back, swinging the sword in a decapitating arc. Nu'val only just turned in time to raise a forearm gauntlet to deflect the blow, sword sliding harmlessly down his artificer armour. A fist cannoned into Lorkhan's face, sending his head snapping backwards. He stumbled as it did so, the back of his skull cracking against the hatch's release mechanism. Slowly, the doors opened, revealing a scarred and tattered landscape before them. Lorkhan stood before the opening, dazed but still fighting.
Nu'val came on with another great swing of his hammer. There it was, the opening Lorkhan had been waiting for. He sidestepped the blow and sliced downwards. The power sword chewed through the jump-pack, causing it to spark slightly. In his desire to kill the enemy the Salamander had over-extended, moving with too much momentum and nearly falling straight out the front. He recovered his footing and pirouetted, bringing the Thunder Hammer around again as he stood on the hatch's cusp. Lorkhan raised an arm to block it, and was rewarded with the agonising sting of crushed bone.
But that had been what he wanted.
With his sword arm he thrust forward, placing all his strength behind it. Artificer armour was strong, but not invulnerable. The energised blade passed through, exploding from Nu'val's back dripping with gore. The Salamander coughed, numb hands dropping the weapon to the deck. Lorkhan breathed heavily, keeping eye contact with the foe.
"We will kill you for this..." Nu'val said, voice wracked with pain. "If it takes us ten thousand years, traitor...we will kill you for what you've done."
"Death to the False Emperor." Lorkhan snarled as a reply, placing a boot on the Salamander's torso. He kicked, retracting his sword as he did. Nu'val fell from the front of the craft, tumbling end over end as he plummeted towards the black ground. His jet pack finally exploded, dousing the falling Salamander in burning promethium. Lorkhan watched the flaming comet for as long as possible, until the ash clouds swallowed it. Sheathing his blade, he pressed the hatch control again, the doors closing behind him.
For a moment his eyes rested on the corpses of his brothers lying in a heap. Then, the pain in his left arm that his Astartes physiology had suppressed until now flared up, causing a gasp to leave the Iron Warrior's lips and driving him to his knees cradling it. It was more than just shattered; he'd have to get a bionic replacement, there was no doubt of that.
"Sir?" The pilot's voice crackled over the helmet vox. "Are we secure?" Blinking away the pain, Lorkhan looked up at the hole the Salamanders had cut in the roof, before turning his gaze to where he had sat not ten minutes prior. The World Eater helmet was still there, despite everything. It still snarled.
"Get us out of here." Lorkhan finally replied, unable to drag his eyes away from the empty helmet's glare.
Twilight groaned as her head slammed into the book open on the desk before her. It was not in her nature to be defeatist, but this was getting too much. Holding back a sob she looked up and rubbed her eyes with her hooves, staring at the flickering candle before her.
"You okay, Twi?" Spike's voice was laden with concern as he pushed open the door to the study. He was used to Twilight shutting herself away to work, sometimes for days on end, but this whole affair seemed to have been particularly stressful for her. The baby dragon had been rushed off his feet just making sure she was eating something.
The purple unicorn turned to look at him, and what he saw only made Spike's worry grow. He was used to Twilight becoming obsessive when she was faced with a taxing problem, sometimes to the point of creepiness; Spike didn't need reminding of the whole 'missed friendship report' fiasco. But the utter despair on Twilight's face-the drooping ears, unkempt hair, eyes bloodshot with both sleep deprivation and frustrated tears-broke the little dragon's heart. As Twilight turned back to her book Spike walked over, gently placing a reassuring claw on her back. The Unicorn smiled at the touch, dragging her assistant into a hug. There had been a lot of hugs recently, ever since Twilight and Spike had been reunited unharmed in Canterlot after they'd left.
"It's no use, Spike." Twilight said dejectedly. Spike's eyes fell on the huge stack of books piled up on the desk; it must have been at least twice his height. He wondered how its weight was supported. "I've read every book I can think of that might give us even the slightest clue about the...the 'Iron Warriors'. I've looked in every one of the Canterlot archives, raided our collection at least three times, Princess Celestia's even given me access to restricted books from the Crystal Empire and Griffon Kingdoms. None of them mentions these things, or the Warp, or some 'war', or anything they were talking about. According to every scrap of knowledge we have, the Iron Warriors simply don't exist."
Spike's chewed his bottom lip, wishing he could think of something to say that would cheer his best friend up. He finally decided to fall back to familiar ground.
"Do you want a coffee?"
For a moment, Twilight looked like she was going to buck Spike through a window. Then a weary smile broke out across her face, and she nodded, following him out of the darkened study. She squinted as she re-entered the main library, eyes stinging with the sunlight that streamed in through the windows. She walked down the stairs and into the kitchen, taking a seat at the table and trying her hardest not to fall asleep. Spike was already making the coffee, humming to himself as he heated the water.
"Anything from Princess Celestia?" Twilight eventually asked, hopefully. Spike shook his head, placing the two cups down on the table. Twilight felt her shoulders sag as she scooped the mug up.
"Aww, cheer up Twi! You'll figure this out, you're the smartest Unicorn I know!" Spike said with a smile, his optimism touching. Twilight smiled back, but it wasn't genuine.
"I don't know, Spike. Give me a mathematical quandary and I'll have a method in five minutes, but how do I even begin trying to understand something like this when we have no records of anything even remotely similar?"
Before Spike could think of an answer, Twilight spoke again. Her voice was quieter, laced with fear.
"This is more than just some study problem. These 'Iron Warriors', whatever they are, they...change things. Rainbow Dash and Princess Luna may be brash, but I've never seen them like they were at the castle. Wherever they've been has messed with their very essence. If they're in constant contact with Equestria..." She trailed off, staring down at her drink with a haunted expression on her face. Spike scratched the back of his head nervously, the implication clear to him.
"Fluttershy called earlier." He said suddenly, trying to change the subject. "She, uhh, wanted to know if you wanted to go for dinner at hers later today." Twilight looked up, seemingly mulling it over. Could she really allow herself to have a frivolous evening at a time like this? She had a lot of studying today, reading and re-reading the books she'd skimmed through. Fluttershy might be her friend, but-
Her friend. And there it was. If Twilight was going to stop the Iron Warriors corrupting Equestria-whether they intended to or not-she'd need her friends more than ever.
"Dinner sounds great, Spike." She smiled, and this time she meant it. "Thanks."
Zuko moved back hurriedly as the Dreadnaught emerged from the darkness. Iron Warriors were big, but the Contemptor towered even over them. The Multi-melta affixed to its right arm would probably have been at least the Champion's height.
Threat runes flashed angrily across his helmet optics. He blink-clicked them away; whilst he didn't make a habit of getting cornered underneath a castle by fifteen-foot tall walking death machines that spewed out fire like it was going out of fashion, Zuko was fairly confident that it was a bad thing.
Alone among his brothers, who either shuffled uncomfortably or in the Obliterator's case raised their own weapons, Lorkhan stood stock still before the behemoth. His voice was calm, almost relaxed; Zuko had served as his right hand to know that it was typically Lorkhan, both natural and enforced to throw supplicants off when they came before the Warsmith. But his seeming familiarity with the Salamander was...disconcerting.
The Dreadnaught stopped as Lorkhan addressed it, swaying slightly. Two red eyes stared at the Warsmith, the need to smash him apart evident-it was seemingly held back only by its curiosity.
"You know me, traitor?" The voice that emanated from the grille was laced with static, as if it hadn't been used in an age.
"I killed you." Lorkhan replied simply. Zuko's head shot towards his master at this latest revelation. It's okay, sir, I didn't like having a life expectancy longer than the next few minutes anyway. The Dreadnaught looked away for a moment, as if wracking its still-waking brain for a memory. It seemed to find one, and turned back to the Warsmith, power fist clenching.
"Istvaan." The voice was dangerously low and measured. "You were the sergeant...I told you I would kill you."
"You can try, Nu'val." Lorkhan answered. He beckoned Zuko to his side. Warily, the Champion complied, never taking his eyes of the Dreadnaught. The Salamander didn't even seem to notice him. "How in the name of the God's did you get here?"
The Dreadnaught was quiet for a moment, and Zuko fully expected to be crushed to a paste in seconds. Yet eventually the Dreadnaught did reply, the prospect of having an ancient enemy at his mercy seemingly granting the Iron Warriors a moment's amnesty.
"My body was broken after you threw me from the Storm Eagle, but my will to fight was not. My brothers found me, remade me. I served the Legion until the end of the Heresy, and the Chapter after the Primarch's disappearance. We were called to a world under the thrall of the Despoiler's lackeys. It should have been a simple drop pod assault, yet they were ready for us. Foul Warp-spawned magicks tore the heavens open, and we hurtled head-on into the rift. Half a company of Salamanders, gone in seconds. I do not know where my brothers were scattered too, yet I emerged on this world. I was forced to use my Multi-melta to carve out a passageway to reach this cavern, and entered a state of dormancy...that is, until you showed up."
Lorkhan seemed to turn the information over in his mind for a moment. "So...you don't actually know where you are, do you?"
"It is irrelevant." The Dreadnaught tilted slightly, as if focusing in one something. "You have come unarmed. That was unwise, traitor scum."
"You won't believe me if I tell you why." The Warsmith replied. The Dreadnaught looked at him for a moment, before raising his power fist. The underslung Heavy Flamer's pilot light burned brighter. Zuko cursed.
"So be it. Burn heretic."
The gout of flame leapt towards the two Iron Warriors the moment the Obliterator's started firing. Any mortal warrior would have been incinerated, yet Zuko and Lorkhan were Astartes. Even with the Warsmith's extensive bionics, they sprang out the way, landing in a crouch before breaking into a sprint. One of the Melta-beams fired by the Obliterators went wide; the other two hit their target, but dissipated harmlessly off the Contemptor's atomantic shielding.
The power armoured Iron Warriors began to run in a general circle, seeking to outmaneuver and entangle their foe. Quite what the purpose of this was no one was quite sure, yet it seemed a damn sight better than standing around and waiting to be stepped on. Whilst they had the advantage of numbers and speed, the Salamander had armour and firepower, tipping the scales decidedly in his favour.
Zuko slid to a halt behind the Dreadnaught, not surprised to find Rorke by his side and breathing heavily. Zuko had lost track of Lorkhan and Mordecai early on, although the Sorcerer had been letting lose ineffectual bursts of telekinetic power. Rorke's face was twisted in an even uglier grimace than usual, and when he spoke it was through gritted teeth.
"And how exactly does Celestia expect us to kill this bastard thing?"
"She doesn't." Zuko reminded him. "She expects us to be killed by this bastard thing." This didn't seem to satisfy his brother, who looked like he was about to tackle Zuko into the dirt. The helmeted champion looked back at the rampaging Dreadnaught, which had just preceded to backhand an Iron Warrior (or rather, one's crumpled remains) into a nearby wall, tilting his head in thought.
"It hasn't used its Multi-melta." Zuko observed, mind racing. "It said it had to use it to break out the drop pod. Perhaps it's run out of ammunition." No sooner had he spoke, Zuko noticed three Iron Warriors falling back down a nearby cavern. The Dreadnaught noticed too, raising the baroque weapon in their direction. In such a confined space a Multi-melta would always be deadly, but its wielder was a Salamander and the aim was true. A beam of superheated energy roared forth from the gun, travelling with pinpoint accuracy down the tunnel and engulfing the three Chaos Marines. Their screams transmitted for a moment over the vox, before cutting out with a wet gargle. Zuko did his best to ignore Rorke's glare.
Nu'val turned, noticing that the two Aspiring Champions had come to a halt. It raised its arm to unleash the Heavy Flamer once more, when finally one of the Obliterator's shots penetrated its shielding. Whilst no lasting damage seemed to be caused, the beam did scorch some of the Dreadnaught's motor servos, driving it to one knee. Zuko and Rorke took their chance, springing forward and running as fast as they could. Another burst of promethium issued forth from the flamer, dousing Zuko's armour and blackening its edges, yet the ceramite held firm and he did not break stride.
"You realise we can't actually hurt that thing?" Rorke hissed.
"We can distract it." Zuko countered, shaking off the last of the fire. "And with any luck, it'll fall on you." They were right in front of the Salamander war-engine now, which stepped backwards unsurely; it had not expected such a move from its tiny enemies. With a snarl, Zuko and Rorke pushed off their back feet and hurled themselves onto the Sarcophagus.
Lightning coursed over Zuko's armour as he came into contact with the Dreadnaught's shielding. He scrambled for a grip, forcing the pain down through force of will, but he could note establish a firm hold. The shield threw him off, and he skidded across the ground on his back a few yards before finally coming to a stop, hacking and coughing. The armour smoked from contact with the atomantic device, and overall he felt only slightly better than when that purple Unicorn had shot him in the chest. Rorke had managed to hold on better, bracing himself and clinging onto a loose cable with one hand. The other rocketed back and forth, striking the Dreadnaught's 'helmet'. Amazingly, his punches did begin to have an effect, punching out the right eye visor. Nu'val bellowed in anger, thrashing wildly as he was reduced to half-blindness and stumbling hither and thither. Rorke was finally dislodged, thrown through the air in much the same way Zuko was, rolling head over heel before coming to rest and rising to his hands and knees with a cough.
Zuko prepared to get back to his feet, when another, shaper pain overcame him. It lanced through his nervous system like a flaming arrow, for a moment threatening to overcome his enhanced physiology. Nu'val applied more pressure to the colossal foot it had placed on the Aspiring Champion's legs, drawing another gasp from Zuko. His power armour provided little respite, its integrity swiftly collapsing and Zuko's leg bones with it. The Dreadnaught looked down at him, one eye blood-red, the other black and sparking from where Rorke had savaged it. The flamer came in line with Zuko's eye level; even through his blurred vision, Astartes body racing to heal the damage done to it at the expense of other functions, he could see the nozzle clearly.
"For the Emperor." Nu'val rumbled. In response, Zuko weakly raised a hand; only one finger was extended.
He was saved by a brother. With an incoherent howl, and carrying a rock he had picked up from somewhere in the cavern, Kravix leapt at the Dreadnaught much as his sergeant had. In all honesty, the rock would have been ineffectual at best, but it was the thought the counted. Nu'val turned to meet this new threat, diverting his attention from Zuko yet not stepping off him. The Dreadnaught extended his power fist to the side, catching the Iron Warrior in mid-air. Kravix had only a moment to struggle and slam the rock into Nu'val's robotic hand before a compression of the power fist's fingers reduced him to a mangled, unrecognisable mess. What had once been Kravix was released, dropping to the floor with an unceremonial squelch.
Zuko watched his brother die, hatred bubbling inside him. Yet Kravix's sacrifice-whether he had intended such a thing or not-gave the other Iron Warriors time to fight back. A Lascannon shot from the Obliterators smashed into Nu'val's flank, sending him stumbling backwards and finally freeing Zuko's legs. A boulder hurled by Mordecai's power followed suite, smashing against the sarcophagus and annihilating some of the finery carved on their. In response, the Dreadnaught raised its Multi-melta, this time turning it on Vortun and his kin. Unlike their smaller brothers the Obliterators did not have the advantage of haste, and so Vortun could only turn away reflexively as the beam reduced the Obliterator on his left to a steaming puddle of warp-tainted goo on the floor.
Zuko's hands bunched into fists; that Obliterator was a revered member of the Thirteenth company, blessed by the Gods and part of the Warhost since its genesis. To see him destroyed so completely, on a planet populated by peace loving, pastel coloured horse-xenos, was beyond insulting. Vortun did not take it any better. With a deep, baritone growl he and his surviving brother began to fire shot after shot from many different weapons, peppering the sarcophagus with an unrelenting hail of firepower. It was beginning to count, the Dreadnaught's armour plating running in a molten dribble here and there.
Zuko tried to move his legs, but found that he could not. Although his body worked to heal them, for now they were completely shattered. He turned onto his front, trying to drag himself along the ground by his hands, when a strong grip stopped him and did the dragging itself. Zuko couldn't see who it was, but it was probably Barbus. Through hazy vision he watched Nu'val continue his onslaught. A great sweep of the power fist pulped another three Iron Warriors, two of them part of Zuko's squad. He vaguely noticed their life signs flickering red on his optical stream. Another, slower Marine was merely stepped on by the Dreadnaught. He was not as lucky as Zuko, and was killed instantly by the weight.
Zuko gave a pained curse under his breath as he was dragged away. So many were dying. Why did they not just find cover? He knew the answer, of course-they were trying to distract the Dreadnaught so the Obliterators could keep firing at it, and that invariably led to casualties. As much as they hated and mistrusted each other off personally, in battle the Iron Warriors worked as a team. They had been Legio Astartes once, and they remembered pack tactics as well as any Night Lord or Space Wolf in a pinch.
"Is this all?" Nu'val shouted through his speakers, although the voice was crackly. "Is this all the vaunted Iron Warriors can bring to bear?" The flamer came to life once more, incinerating two more Astartes. "You have fallen far indeed, traitor filth." The Multi-melta fired another burst at Vortun, but this time his daemonic heritage saved him and the shot dissipated harmlessly.
Lorkhan finally reappeared, standing as still as he had been when talking to the Dreadnaught. He had positioned himself in front of the Obliterators, providing an irresistible target. "I killed you millennia ago, Nu'val. It seems you weren't paying attention. But I will kill you again here, and this time I will make it last. You will never re-join what passes for your thin blooded chapter. You will not fight for a dead master on a golden chair any longer. And like you fall, the Imperium will fall soon after. We will take the iron to the stone Nu'val, tear down the false Emperor's kingdom of lies. We will end every single one of you, Salamander dog. We might not be what we once were, but we're more than enough to deal with you."
The Dreadanught didn't stop coming, lashing out with a foot. It impacted an iron Warrior, sending him flying into a wall. The body crumpled lifelessly. "You are delusional and mad, every ne of you. I will never understand what drove you to listen to the Warmaster's lies, besides your own inherent weakness, but it matters not. You will not topple the Imperium, iron Warrior. It endures, even in spite of your petty tantrums and piratical raids. It survives on the blood of Martyrs and the steel of the faithful in the face of scum like you. One Dreadnought-one old, battered Dreadnaught, isolated from his brothers and stuck in a cave-and even now I have killed over a quarter of your sorry company. How do you intend to tear down anything? You brought your whole Legion to Terra, every traitorous cur you could muster, and even then you could not do it. You will not stop us, Iron Warrior, you will not stop the Imperium's manifest destiny." The Dreadnought locked its remaining eye with the Warsmith's. "You are not even a threat."
The Obliterators ceased their firing. Iron Warriors stopped running, skidding to a halt and staring at Nu'val. Barbus dropped Zuko, and the Champion understood why. Lorkhan was as calm as ever, not a muscle moving. His voice was scarcely above a whisper.
"What did you say?"
Space Marines knew no fear, and Dreadnoughts even more-they literally dread nought-yet in that moment Nu'val stopped his advance, as if realising he had made a rather large mistake.
They were on him in seconds. The Obliterators fired for as long as they could, burning away at the flagging atomantic shielding with an unrelenting stream of hate and ammunition. They only stopped as every Iron Warrior that could walk leapt on the Dreadnought like a pack of wild dogs, swarming over and beating at the great metal beast. They were rabid, clawing and tearing, sheer weight of numbers of stopping Nu'val from dealing with them. Kayn and Aleksos had clambered onto his back, striking at the weaker rear armour and ripping out cables and important-looking moving parts whenever they could find them. Nu'val staggered, such a massed attack completely unorthodox and thus, unexpected. Zuko had never liked his brothers, not for the most part, but in this moment he considered them nothing short of magnificent. Lorkhan grappled onto the Dreadnought's front, his Mechatendrils having stabbed through the armour plating to hold him aloft like a great iron spider. Much like Rorke, he was smashing a fist into what passed for Nu'val's face.
"I."
The other eye began to spark, flickering from red to black and back again.
"AM."
It finally cut out completely, and the Dreadnought flailed even more wildly in the now total blindness.
"A."
Another brutal punch cracked the Sarcophagus itself, shattering an intricately dragon in a way that seemed almost symbolic.
"THREAT."
Not even a Dreadnought could withstand such a mass swarming all over it/ Cracked, blind, sparking and bleeding a thick black fuel, Nu'val began to sink slowly downwards. The Iron Warriors leapt off him back to the ground, seemingly wanting to finish this in a more dignified manner. In a last gasp act of spite, the Dreadnought grabbed hold of an Astartes' leg as he jumped, smashing him onto the ground repeatedly with what little strength it had remaining, but it was not enough. Mordecai turned almost graceful as he landed to face the dreadnought, extending his arm and balling it into a fist. Nu'val's Multi-melta groaned and creaked, before slowly crumpling inwards as the aetheric winds finally blew in force and let the warlock marshal his full telekinetic strength. One weapon gone, all Nu'val had was his Heavy Flamer and power fist, yet even the fire spurted forth seemed weaker and more pathetic now the Dreadnought was running out of power fast.
The Iron Warriors stood to the side, allowing the Obliterators access as they advanced, twisted guns blazing. Of all the Chaos Marines, they seemed most affected by the death of their brother; it would have been wrong to deny them such vengeance. Lascannon, plasma, and melta beams smashed into the sarcophagus repeatedly, the shielding struggling to keep up. Finally it could take no more and fizzled out completely, leaving Nu'val utterly undefended. A concentrated two Lascannon beams finally finished the job; the sarcophagus cracked open, an engine exploded as the Dreadnought's rear armour began leaking flames, and the mighty construct toppled slowly onto its back. A tremor roared around the Iron Warriors as it hit the ground, echoing down the corridors. They did not flinch, instead watching their enemy; making sure it was dead. He had committed the cardinal sin amongst the Thirteenth Company; perhaps they were virtual outcasts from their own Legion and down on their luck, but you never ever insinuated they were not a threat. Do that, and the error of your words will quickly become apparent.
Zuko watched all of this, taking an ice cold satisfaction in watching the great Salamander twitch its last. Then, and only then, did the Iron Warrior grant himself the luxury of passing out.
Lorkhan stood atop the sarcophagus, staring down at the Dreadnought's blank and dead eyes. Smoke still filtered from the grates on its back, although most of it had already been vomited forth, and now the once mighty dreadnought was little more than hulk of metal cast to the ground.
Mordecai also stood atop the defeated Salamander, slightly behind the Warsmith. Rorke and Varvillon had gone to clean up the remains of the Iron Warriors who had perished; most of them were beyond recognition and their armour unsalvageable, but the Champion had managed to find a corrupted mk4 helmet to replace the one he lost. Zuko's unconscious form had been dragged to the corner of the room, and with little reverence dumped there. His wounds weren't serious enough to force him to enter a sus-as membrane coma, but Lorkhan knew his legs were utterly shattered. Even with such enhanced healing capabilities, it was highly unlikely Zuko would walk again without bionics. The rest of what remained from the company, Obliterators included, formed a circle around the Dreadnought. He didn't know what they were thinking, but one thing was for sure; they had won a victory here today. They'd killed an old enemy. If nothing else, that would get their spirits up, even if it did little for Lorkhan. Nu'val had been right in one thing-over a quarter of Lorkhan's brothers had died. He might have been a follower of Chaos, but any victory still felt pyrrhic, especially when one considered that they'd come here at a Ponies' bidding.
The Dreadnought looked so helpless in death, a far cry from the beast it had been in life. Mordecai had crushed the Multi-melta with his mind, yet the power fist was still intact, and the flamer stank of burned fuel. As he stared, a though occurred to Lorkhan. He stepped back and motioned for the Obliterators to come forth. They did so, immediately catching on and digging their energised talons into the sarcophagus. Before long, they had ripped the covering off, revealing what lay within. Lorkhan stepped back up over the hole, crouching down and resting his arms on his knees.
Within lay the shrivelled hulk of what had once been a sergeant of the 32nd Company, Eighteenth Astartes Legion. Coal black skin had paled slightly in the years of entombment to a lighter brown, whilst the eyes had decayed completely. Muscles too had atrophied, and it lay curled in a foetal position surrounded by burst vials of amniotic fluid. The pathetic sight almost brought a laugh to Lorkhan's lips. Amazingly, it was not dead; the head turned slowly and weakly towards the Warsmith. The sightless stare was unnerving, but Lorkhan was angry enough that it did not matter.
"This time..." he growled softly, finally fighting to keep his voice composed after such an extended period of calm when faced with the Salamander. "This time, you stay dead, you shit." The husk of a Salamander said nothing, foam bubbling in the corner of his mouth. "I swear to you, Nu'val." Lorkhan went on, now grabbing the decrepit creature by the throat and yanking it free from the Dreadnought's confines. "I swear to you here, on the honour of my Legion. You will all die like your Primarch did. Every last, bastard one of you. I will kill the last Salamander myself and offer his soul to the darkness. Your bloodline will burn, Nu'val. Your whole bastard genetic line will be nothing but a bad memory."
The Salamander still stared at him, tenuously clinging to life. Then, for the first time in ten thousand years, he spoke through lungs that were rapidly turning to dust.
"...Vulkan...lives..."
Lorkhan maintained his grip for a moment, as if considering the old warrior's words. Then, he lashed out with his other fist, punching straight through the paper-think skull. He tossed the body away with a snarl as he stood back up to his full height.
"Vortun." The Warsmith growled, still staring at Nu'val's remains. "Destroy the body. Plasma, not fire; he would consider that an honour. Then help Mordecai tear this thing apart piece by piece." Only now did he turn to dismount the Dreadnought and walk away, when something caught his eye. Affixed to a huge shoulder, fluttering slightly as he passed, was a small patch of green scaled hide. It would have fit snugly over the pauldron of a suit of power armour. Sartak's face flashed before his eyes, for the first time in ten millennia.
"No half measures." |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Party Mafia | In the end they resorted to climbing out hand over hand, like great iron apes. Rorke and a few of the others were tasked with dragging their brother's pulped remains into one pile-after scavenging all usable armour, of course-whilst a combination of Mordecai's telekinesis and the two remaining Obliterator's raw strength tore the lifeless Dreadnought shell asunder. They worked quickly and silently, Lorkhan adamant they were not leaving until it was done.
It was apparent to any who cared to look that Zuko wasn't walking out of here. Having a Contemptor's full weight pressed down on your legs tended to ruin anyone's day, even for an Astartes. Rorke, ever the loyal and supportive brother, suggested they leave him there. Surprisingly Zuko himself agreed, arguing that it would slow them down to unacceptable levels. The idea was dismissed immediately by the Warsmith; they were already understrength. Instead Zuko was forced to cling on to the back of the silent Obliterator like a child, and the indignity of it clearly burned at him.
They retreated down the passageway they had come from, towards the drop pod's remains. None of them had any sort of inclination to explore the other catacombs. There were enough hand-holds in the rock to make pulling their way free of the pit relatively simple, although for the Obliterators (particularly the one lugging Zuko) it was a squeeze. Eventually they had all emerged into the crisp morning light streaming into the castle's foyer. Here, they could see it was just as decrepit as it had appeared at night, although the strange empty plinth in the centre of the room was made of a particularly pure white stone. Most made for the exit, with only Lorkhan staying behind momentarily. He ascended the stairs to where Zuko had found the first evidence of the loyalists, stooping to pick up the green ceramite plating. Before, the Salamander icon had seemed to glare mockingly at him. Now, it was nothing more than chipped paint.
He re-joined his brothers as they stepped over the great wooden doors that had been blown of their hinges, exiting the castle with all due haste. Bird song met them, although Lorkhan couldn't determine the species. Xenos, most likely. A soft breeze lapped against his armour, cooling him through the battered war-plate as if it were a second skin. Mordecai unfastened his helmet, a genuinely pleasured smile crossing his face as the wind brushed it. The forest seemed slightly more inviting than it had in the dark, although it still bore the scars of the Chaos Marine's presence in the form of wisps of smoke rising in the distance.
Lorkhan looked down at the rickety bridge, cocking his head sidewards.
"One Obliterator down." He observed. "We're going to have trouble getting back across."
"Ve could jump for it." Vortun grunted. Mordecai shook his head, still holding his helmet in the crook of his arm.
"I would scarcely advocate it, Vortun." The sorcerer remarked. "One does not like to consider the price of failure, especially if your...additional bulk is factored into consideration." Lorkhan turned the options over in his head, weighing up the possibility of just not returning. It wasn't an option, of course. Celestia had promised to get them off this rock and back to Medrengard, and Lorkhan intended to make her keep it.
"Lord?" Zuko called out, still perched atop an Obliterator. The Warsmith ignored him, still deliberating internally.
"Lord?" Zuko's repeated, more forcefully. Lorkhan gave him an over-the-shoulder glare, still not replying.
"Lorkhan, will you just..."
"WHAT?!" Lorkhan screamed, spinning on his heels to face his subordinate. A couple of the less attentive Iron Warriors flinched as if struck, but Zuko merely locked stares with the Warsmith. Lorkhan stayed tensed for a moment, before finally calming himself. Zuko wasn't at fault here-the encounter with Nu'val bothered Lorkhan more than he cared to admit. "What is it, brother?"
Zuko didn't say anything, but pointed to Lorkhan's right. The Iron Warrior turned in confusion, unsure what the Champion was getting at. Just as he was about to demand Zuko be dumped into the canyon, he spotted it.
The castle stood, for the most part, on its own-connected to the majority of the forest by the rope-bridge they'd crossed earlier. However, Lorkhan now realised that more trees stood on firm bedrock to the left of the castle, forming a wide arc. They joined on to the rear of the fortification without the use of a bridge, and that rocky bedding continued round...
...Connecting back up with the remainder of the Everfree.
"Are you quite alright, sir?" Mordecai asked, concern creeping into his voice. Lorkhan had gone very quiet and still, staring at the pathway they could have taken instead of arsing about with the rope-bridge. Before the sorcerer could inquire again, the ancient Warsmith fell to his knees with a sound like a hammer striking an anvil. He was still silent. Two Marines stepped forward to help him back up, but Lorkhan brushed them off. He lifted his arms above his head, still lost in reverie, clenching the hands into fists.
"OH, COME ON!"
The rest of the journey was taken in near complete silence, Lorkhan still smouldering at having missed the alternative pathway. The one exception was Varvillon, who was seemingly on the lookout for more of the strange blue plant he had spotted earlier. Finally locating a small cluster, the rest of the group were gracious enough to wait as his eccentricities came to the fore.
Varvillon removed his helmet-it was an object of envy for many within the company, being of the newer mark 7 design, ripped from the corpse of one of Dorn's sons. Curiously the Marine had not adorned it with horns, or any of the fetishes common amongst the followers of the Dark Gods; when asked, he simply replied that it had never occurred to him to do so. Varvillon's face was another oddity. For the most part it was organic, however his jaw was a surprisingly sophisticated bionic shaped like a wolf's muzzle. The lower half of the Iron Warrior's face had been torn away by a Space Wolf, some barbarian king with lightning claws. Varvillon had somehow survived the encounter, and-ever the poet-had requested the bionics to match. The feral, snarling motions they made when he spoke belied his nature as one of the softer-spoken of the warband.
He turned the helmet over in his hands, removing what seemed to be a miniature auspex from within. Lorkhan groaned inwardly at the thought that he constantly carried it around in there, yet wasn't surprised. Fiddling with some buttons-the delicate task made difficult by his Power Armour-Varvillon placed the device in the middle of the plants. He snapped his helmet back on with a hiss of pressure, ignoring the looks of his brothers.
"I don't suppose you intend to explain what that was all about?" Lorkhan asked, not hopeful. Varvillon had already pushed past him.
"Testing a hunch."
The trip took most of the day-Space Marines moved fast, but the Everfree was large, and it seemed to...change of its own accord, seeking to keep the Iron Warriors trapped. By the time they managed to break free the moon had returned, and now he wasn't surrounded by trees Lorkhan could get a good look at the surroundings. Acres of countryside stretched before him, with a small town and windmill visible not far off. Mountains ringed the area, and built into the side of one was a white city that Lorkhan could just about make off in the distance; although it was obscured by cloud, he recognised Canterlot, the Xenos' capital. Credit where credit was due, the positioning of it meant that it would be difficult to assault with any typical army.
Fortunately, the Legio Astartes were not a typical army.
To the east stood the remnants of the Olympian Sun, still lying in the crash-site where all this had started. What was left of the cottage Zuko had destroyed also could be seen. It had not been rebuilt yet, most likely due to the intimidating presence of the Strike Cruiser. It was hard, to see the ship that had survived the Heresy and so much more humbled like this, and on such a world to boot; the fact that it still struck fear into Xenos hearts was some comfort.
Unsure how to contact Celestia directly, the Iron Warriors made for the village. It wasn't a long walk-about twenty minutes-yet when they arrived it was effectively a ghost town. Nearly every window was without light, the streets empty. Whether they had spotted the Astartes approaching, or just didn't have much of a night life, the Iron Warriors couldn't say. They wandered through town aimlessly, trying to pick out any major landmarks. There were few-a needle-shaped structure that presumably formed the centre of local government, an opulent and multi-tiered carousel shaped structure with mannequins of the Xenos hung on the outside, and most curiously of all, a tree that had seemingly been hollowed out with a balcony constructed in its upper branches. All of them seemed dead.
Only one building showed signs of life. It was mostly pink, but the roof was a dark brown edged with fluffy white. Three large candles glowed atop it, perched on what seemed to be a large pink cake. Outside a sign hung down, that same cake printed on with "Sugarcube corner" scrawled below it. Lorkhan could have hurled. Unlike everywhere else though, here the lights were on, and the door left slightly ajar.
The group stopped outside it, some muttering entirely justified curses, as Lorkhan walked towards it. Rorke and Mordecai moved to follow him, but a look from the Warsmith stopped them.
"Stay here with the cripple." He said, jerking a thumb towards Zuko, who climbed a little further up the Obliterator and spat ineffectually towards Lorkhan. "If this is a trap, I want you two ready to respond." Both gave a nod, once not arguing. Motioning to the two closest Iron Warriors, Lorkhan lowered his head and squeezed into Sugarcube corner.
"Pinkie, I really don't think this is a good idea..." Twilight said, casting another nervous glance around her. The bakery had been cleared of nearly all furniture, only the essential remaining. Behind Twilight stood a couple of tables, laden with cake, a punch bowl and other assorted snacks. A banner hung on the wall above them, the words "Welcome back Iron Warriors!" daubed on hastily. At both ends of the sentence was Pinkie's representation of the helmeted skull logo they seemed fond of; she hadn't got a good look at it, and so despite her best efforts it was almost a parody of itself. Anyone else may have taken it in jest, but when the Iron Warriors were concerned, Twilight though such levity was dangerous.
Beside her Pinkie giggled, flashing Twilight a smile. The Element of Laughter wore a yellow and blue party hat, and was clutching something tightly to her chest-confetti, it seemed. She smiled again, this one much warmer.
"Oh Twiley, I know they were pretty scary when they first got here, but maybe Scootaloo was right! It can't have been easy for them to find themselves stranded here, and if they're gonna be stuck here I just wanna try and help everything cool off a bit. I know I can be their friends, if they just try!"
"That's very admirable Pinkie, but I-" Twilight was cut off by her friend's face materialising centimetres from her own, shining blue eyes widened in a pleading expression.
"Please, Twilight! Oh, pleasepleasepleasepleasepleaseplease Pinkie-promise you'll give them a chance?" For a moment, Twilight was unsure what to say. Finally she sighed, running a hoof down her face.
"Alright, I Pinkie-promise. But for you, not for them."
She was rewarded with the party pony's hooves thrown around her in a warm embrace, somehow still keeping hold of the confetti. The smile had returned to Pinkie's face immediately, and using her mouth she offered Twilight another party hat. The Unicorn reached out with her magic to take it, faking a smile of her own.
To Pinkie's left, Derpy was sat with the same vapid grin on her face as usual, sporting a hat and kazoo. She had been the only other resident of Ponyville to attend; Spike was asleep, and the rest of the Ponies had been very clear where the Iron Warriors could shove it. Fluttershy-who was staying at Carousel Boutique whilst her home was in ruins, at Rarity's insistence-had reacted harshest of all, practically slamming the door in Twilight and Pinkie's face when they'd gone to invite her. Twilight herself remained convinced this was a bad idea, but she wasn't going to leave Pinkie and Derpy alone with marauding aliens. So the three of them sat in the bakery, waiting for the invaders to return.
Finally, spiked silhouettes darkened the windows. Pinkie nudged Twilight excitedly. The door opened with surprising gentleness as Lorkhan entered. It was an effort for him to get through, but once he was inside Twilight was intrigued to notice he didn't need to stoop as low to avoid the ceiling as she'd expected. Two other Iron Warriors entered, ones she didn't recognise. No sooner were they inside then Pinkie let fly the confetti, Derpy blowing wildly on the Kazoo as the pink pony screamed "SURPRISE!"
The Iron Warriors didn't react, and Twilight felt a tense feeling settle in her gut. Eventually, they began walking forward with deceptive slowness, refusing eye contact with any of the ponies. Each footfall reverberated heavily on the wooden floor. They pushed past Twilight and Pinkie to stare down at the food placed out for them, then up at the banner, then down at the food again.
"What is this?" Lorkhan finally said, voice surprisingly quiet and calm. The tension inside Twilight constricted more and more, and she found her eyes falling on every possible exit. Pinkie would not be defeated so easily, though.
"It's a party...for you...to celebrate you coming back and stuff!"
She was still beaming as Derpy blew the kazoo again. The Iron Warriors still did not look at the three ponies, but Lorkhan gave each of his subordinates an almost imperceptible nod. Twilight began to edge back, tapping Pinkie's hoof in an effort to get her to do the same as what was about to happen became apparent.
The blows crashed down onto the plates of food and the tables moments later. One of the Iron Warriors grabbed the cake and raised it over his head, roaring as he threw it on the ground. The plate shattered as it hit the floorboards, the cracking sound mixing with the splattered cake's squelch. The horrible metal snake things attached to Lorkhan's armour had ripped the banner from the wall, tearing it to shreds and dropping it at the Iron Warrior's feet for him to stamp on. The third Iron Warrior grabbed either side of the punch bowl, Twilight rushing to hold Pinkie down as he hurled it right past her. It span through the air like a discus, covering the floor in slippery purple liquid and crashing through one of the bakery's windows. The magic using Iron Warrior Twilight had seen earlier peered in from outside, waving at the Unicorn as if this was normal.
Confectionary was tossed aside and crushed into paste by the Iron Warrior's relentless assault, driven by a cold fury. Twilight grabbed Pinkie, who was sobbing heavily and only managing weak protests, and began to pull her towards the door. It meant going through more Iron Warriors, but she had her magic. Squeezing her eyes shut, Twilight prayed for strength and a true aim.
Her eyes snapped open as the noise of violent release came to an abrupt halt. Turning round to look back at the scene of destruction, Twilight supressed a gasp as she saw Derpy sat in front of the three giants. They stared down at her, this unexpected development seemingly overpowering their baser urges. Slowly, Derpy brought a hoof up towards one of the unknown Iron Warriors, still smiling. On it rested a single, perfect, still steaming muffin. Twilight wasn't sure where she'd got it, but that wasn't important right now.
The Iron Warrior looked down at it, seemingly a complete loss of what to do. Tentatively he reached out to take it, gauntleted hand causing some to flake off as it wrapped around the muffin. Withdrawing it, the Iron Warrior held his gift gingerly with a mumble of "thanks".
Twilight's incomprehension distracted her, softening her grip and allowing Pinkie to break loose. Tears streaming down her face, the Element Bearer rushed towards Lorkhan, laying into the lower shins of his armour with ineffectual punches in an entirely unPinkie-like manner. The Iron Warrior looked at her contemptuously for a moment, before fastening a heavy iron gauntlet around her neck and lifting her from the ground. Pinkie's legs kicked at air as she pawed weakly at the vice-like grip on her throat, coughing and spluttering.
Seeing her friend in danger was the last straw for Twilight. The fact that she knew Lorkhan could have crushed Pinkie instantly, and merely extended her suffering on a sadistic whim, only fuelled her anger further. Purple energy shot forth from her horn, striking the alien warlord. He stumbled slightly as one impacted his chest squarely, yet he did not relinquish his grip or take his eyes off Pinkie. By now the trapped pony's struggles had grown weaker, and her eyes began to roll back. Twilight shot more and more bursts of magic, desperate panic setting in. The other two Iron Warriors advanced towards Twilight, although one still clutched the muffin awkwardly.
"ENOUGH."
The voice was sufficiently authoritarian to stop even the Iron Warriors. Twilight instantly froze, turning towards the door with some trepidation. It was flung open as the sun's avatar herself walked in.
"Drop her." Celestia commanded sternly, gaze locked on Lorkhan. He didn't comply immediately, but eventually relinquished his grip on Pinkie. She dropped to the ground with a thud, whimpering in pain and rubbing her throat. Twilight and Derpy galloped over, noticing her mane was completely straight now. Lorkhan and Celestia still glared at one another.
"What is the meaning of this?" She hissed, stamping a hoof on the ground. The Iron Warriors outside looked in expectantly, whilst Lorkhan folded his arms.
"That's what I was asking." He growled.
"She threw you a party," Celestia said, motioning towards Pinkie. "to make you feel accepted. You responded with attempted murder."
"You really don't know us at all, do you?" Lorkhan replied, with a hint of smugness. A dark look settled in Celestia's eyes, and once again Twilight found herself scared of her mentor. Then, with a deep breath, Celestia seemed to recover some composure. "I trust you have done as I asked?"
"We killed the biggest thing there was."
"...Are you going to tell me what it was?"
"No." Lorkhan practically spat the word, and the rational part of Twilight wondered what could have elicited such an emotive response. Celestia blinked in surprise at his tone, her face softening a little.
"We've done our part, now you do yours." The Warsmith continued. Celestia's face mellowed even further, becoming almost apologetic.
"I can't-"
He was on her in seconds. Twilight squealed in fear as Lorkhan crossed the floor with astonishing speed and let a fist fly. It crashed into a shield of white energy, the same colour as the light that surrounded Celestia's horn. Lorkhan pressed his helmet right up to the barrier, his words a venomous hiss.
"You lying bitch."
"I am not." The Princess replied evenly, showing no sign of strain. Twilight's heart was pounding in her chest as she watched the exchange. "If you recall, my promise was to work with you to find a way home, not to get you there immediately. I still intend to do that." Lorkhan glared at her a moment longer, before nodding and stepping back.
"This incident isn't a mark in your favour, Lorkhan." The Princess warned, dropping the magical shield. "But you have done a service for the realm, and as promised are granted a pardon. Equestria's finest minds are already searching for ways to help you. You may come and go as you please-but you WILL make yourself useful to my subjects, and you will not threaten them. Am I clear, Iron Warrior?"
The three aliens scoffed derisively. "You can't order Space Marines, Xenos." The Warsmith said.
"No." Celestia agreed. "But you can." Lorkhan was quiet for a moment, no sarcastic remark forthcoming.
"I want our weapons back." He grunted at length. "We won't use them, if you insist. But I'm getting withdrawal symptoms."
Celestia nodded. "They have already been delivered to your ship." Lorkhan fell silent, seemingly searching Celestia's face for answers. She didn't respond, instead focusing on Twilight.
"Twilight, child, would you accompany our guests back to their craft and ensure they do nothing rash?" She asked, with a smile. For the first time the Iron Warriors looked at Twilight, red eyes glowing. She gulped.
"P-princess...I just...Pinkie..."
"She will be fine, Twilight. I will attend her." Celestia's tone was gentle, but final. Gulping again, Twilight nodded limply. With one last look back at Pinkie she trudged out of Sugarcube corner, three murderous aliens in tow. The other Iron Warriors stood outside, also watching the Unicorn. Their stance was almost universally hostile, but Lorkhan's reappearance and rumbling command kept them at bay. They moved out towards the edge of Ponyville, surrounding Twilight. She kept her head down and moved quickly, stomach churning.
They stomped towards the crashed...thing in a short amount of time, though Twilight practically had to run to keep up. The one that had waved seemed the least aggressive, and so she stuck closest to him. Their size was the most shocking thing; he was easily twice her height. As they approached the crash, Twilight noticed that great trenches had been carved in the earth before it; the Iron Warriors strode across them easily, yet she had to jump. In the corner of her eye she spotted what remained of Fluttershy's cottage. Sadness mixed with fear, and Twilight hoped that Fluttershy found residence away from these brutes.
Outside the colossal metal skeleton that had struck the ground was a mass of dishevelled looking creatures. Their skin was a grimy greyish-pink, and on the whole they reminded Twilight of lanky apes. They were taller than her, but smaller than the Iron Warriors, and all of them were dressed in rags and had an unkempt mass of hair on their heads. As the Iron Warriors approached they prostrated themselves, shaking fearfully. A couple of the smaller ones, presumable juveniles, stared at Twilight.
"Forgot we had these." She heard Lorkhan chuckle. The Warsmith stepped up to one in particular, bidding it rise. As he did, Twilight saw he had the skull logo of the aliens cut into his chest. It looked painful.
"The weapons have been returned to us?" Lorkhan asked, dismissively. The shaking creature nodded, and Twilight observed he was making sure not to look at the Space Marine directly.
"Y-yes, my Lord."
"And you at no point considered a heroic rescue of your gracious masters?" The Warsmith asked. The thin grotty creature paled further, and Twilight couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy.
"N-no, Lord..."
Lorkhan chuckled, turning to look at his brothers as if sharing a jest. Before Twilight could inquire, the Warsmith had spun and clamped his hands on the side of the unfortunate alien's head. With a twist and a yank, he tore it clean away. Twilight couldn't stop a squeal of fear leaving her lips as the body spasmed as jerked from side to side. Lorkhan tossed the head aside as if it were nothing as the front of his iron armour was coated in sickly red gore and spinal fluid. Neither Iron Warrior nor menial slave reacted, but Twilight wasn't able to control herself. She vomited, hurling the contents of her stomach onto the ground. She gulped in fresh air, eyes watering as she tried to quell the sickened feeling spreading through her. Without warning, she threw up again, tears falling from her eyes and mixing with the bile. The Iron Warriors regarded her with what could only be amusement.
"What the HELL?!" She screamed at Lorkhan through gritted teeth, recovering some of her strength. The Warsmith shrugged. "He was useless to us. There's no room for useless things."
"But...but you can't just KILL it...him...whatever!" She yelped, feeling an involuntary surge of magical energy run through her. It took conscious willpower to stop herself using it.
"Why not?" Lorkhan asked, sounding genuinely puzzled. "We own them." He turned, stepping towards the ship's torn-open belly, the Iron Warriors falling in behind him. Twilight followed a moment later, violent thoughts raging through her skull.
The inside of the craft was gloomier than she'd even imagined, yet the Marines moved through it with practiced ease. They knew every turn and room, some slapping the walls almost affectionately. Twilight began to feel sick again, pressure building inside her head. The corruption she had detected around the aliens was magnified here, the air choked with menace. She wanted to turn and run back home, curling up into bed and pretending this wasn't happening. But the Princess had given her a task, and she'd see it done...even if it was utterly terrifying.
Finally, the mass reached a large chamber where the walls were rife with stands bearing devilish weapons of every stripe.The word 'Armorium' was carved above the door. A great cheer went up from the Iron Warriors, even the larger ones who Twilight had observed were weapons. They spread out in a disorganised rabble, each dashing to recover their lost property. Lorkhan took up stubby gun and huge double-handed axe, running an armoured finger down the green-tinted blade. The sorcerer caressed a long black sword as if it were a child; orange runes were carved on its blade, glowing with a sinister light as he drew near. The wizard turned as if to pick up a gun like Lorkhan's, but stopped. Reaching onto a desk he grasped the handle of an axe that was at least as long as Twilight, although shorter than the Warsmith's, and gave it a few test swings. Seemingly pleased with his acquisition, he sheathed it alongside the sword.
Most of the Iron Warriors selected enlarged versions of Lorkhan's gun, pulling the safety back and slotting fresh magazines into place, although a few chose more esoteric weapons that glowed with red light. One of the leaders had gone for a bronze-hilted sword; on the crosspiece was carved a staring eye, the pupil slitted and unblinking. Another, forced to cling onto one of the larger creature's backs, made a grab for a comically oversized fist with black and yellow talons. Twilight recognised him as the one who had nearly killed Shining Armour. Her temper rose with another magical surge; she didn't know what they'd fought, but if it'd stopped him walking Twilight was okay with it. The Iron Warriors were to a man elated, seemingly forgetting Twilight was there. Spotting her chance, she slowly began to back out of the room. It would have worked had one of the menial slaves not blocked the entrance.
"M-my Lords?" it ventured, ignoring the Pony that had just walked into it. The Marines stopped their celebrations, glaring at him. "T-there's something else..." With that, he disappeared down a corridor. The Iron Warriors followed him at haste, nearly trampling Twilight underfoot. She dived out the way and followed them, having to gallop to keep up. She found them huddled round the door at another open chamber, seemingly in a state of shock. She had to push through the forest of armoured legs to get a good look. No sooner had she done so a great cheer went up, this one even more ferocious than the first.
In the centre of the room stood what Twilight could only describe as a metal box with tracks. It was the same colour as their armour, save some black indents and yellow and black stripes on what she presumed were the exhaust pipe coverings. Spikes and chains were hung all around it, many of them with lien skulls attached. On one side of the beast, at what she presumed was the front, 'IV' had been scrawled in what Twilight hoped was red paint. Walking onwards, and avoiding the rushing Iron Warriors who moved to run their hands down the construct, she found 'XIII' painted in the same place on the opposite side. On the rear 'Rorke was here' was written, the 'paint' running down in sickly rivers. She backed away from the stocky thing, not wanting to risk its wrath.
"It's a Rhino." A polite voice said. The sorcerer came to stand beside Twilight, before kneeling down so as to be only slightly taller than her. Baubles and censors clattered on his armour. "The numerals on the side correspond to company designation. Fourth Legion, Thirteenth Company, you see?"
Twilight didn't see. Furthermore, it didn't look like any of the Rhinos she'd ever read about. She said as much.
"I'm...afraid I don't follow, my dear." The sorcerer said quizzically. "The Rhino is the premier troop transport of the Legio Astartes, a tank responsible for ferrying our troops across the battlefield to their objectives. We thought all our fighting vehicles destroyed in the crash and subsequent conflagrations."
"Wait," twilight said, mind reeling. "So...it's a tank?" That was even harder to believe. Equestria's military was limited at best, and whilst they did possess a few tanks they were ugly, steam powered contraptions prone to blowing up. The only other Tank she knew of was Rainbow's pet tortoise.
"If you don't mind my saying, I would wager that she is a lot more advanced than anything your people have yet constructed." The Iron Warrior said, sounding genuine enough. He chuckled. "To think, the old girl survived. We should have expected no less."
"'She'?" Twilight asked, angry at not understanding anything of what he was saying. "Are you saying this thing's...alive?"
"Not in a manner you would be familiar with." The sorcerer explained, his voice that of a patient teacher dealing with a slow pupil. "All vehicles and artefacts of technology are imbued with a Machine Spirit, which the Mechanicum claim is a portion of their Machine God. More advanced technology possesses a more prominent Machine Spirit, yet all have some degree of awareness." He paused, allowing Twilight to take in what he had just said. She didn't want to admit she'd understood nothing. "They are not sentient as you or I would see it, at least not in the humble Rhino. Traditionally the Iron Warriors Legion does not name its vehicles, as some of our brothers are wont to do. After all they are to be expended in the war, and ultimately are nothing more hardware and metal bound together. Yet, this particular Rhino has served us resolutely since the inception of our brotherhood at the dawn of the Crusade. Despite the efforts of many uncivilised individuals to take her out of commission, every time it returns ready and eager to fight. It has been pivotal to many our missions and wars, yet more than that she is a survivor, like us. And thus we have given her the ultimate reward for any Iron Warrior war engine; an identity."
"So...so this thing has a name?" Twilight ventured, wondering whether she wanted to know it.
"Oh yes." The sorcerer replied, standing back up to his full height. His tone contained no small amount of pride. "We call her The Growler." |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Attack the block | Loyalty.
From Iron Cometh Strength.
From Strength cometh Will.
From Will cometh...cometh...
Damnit, what comes after will?
Hmm...iron, strength, will...faith!
From Will cometh Faith...heh, bullshit, what did we ever have faith in?
Rorke's face creased in concentration beneath his helmet as he tried to finish the mantra. The Unbreakable Litany was a meditative aid taught to all Iron Warriors on their induction to the Legion, to focus their thoughts and remind them of their duty. Rorke had never found in useful at the best of times -and now was hardly the best of times.
The streaking spectrum of light whizzed above him again, loop-de-looping and accelerating more. Deep down, Rorke was impressed by the speeds it could reach, but he'd come up this hill at the edge of town to get away from the others-specifically, Lorkhan. His intended sword-practice was interrupted by another's training.
"Xenos." He called out, helmet-vox amplifying it to a threatening dirge. "Xenos-horse."
At first she didn't seem to listen, building up momentum for another trick. Just when Rorke thought-hoped-he was going to have to break out the bolt pistol, she slowed and descended, flapping only a yard above ground.
"What?!" Rainbow Dash asked, fixing Rorke with a dark look. The Iron Warrior considered drawing his pistol anyway, but instead leaned back on a tree leisurely, folding his arms.
"Can you really not do this anywhere else?" He asked. Dash's face scrunched in agitation, but she said nothing beside grinding her teeth together. "You're in my way."
"Uh, newsflash Iron Weirdo." she replied, spitting the last two words. "This, is where I always practice flying. You're the one butting in."
"Uh huh." Rorke replied, raising an eyebrow. Temptation got the better of him. "How bad a flier do you have to be to need practice?"
That got her. Rainbow snorted angrily, baring her teeth and balling her hooves in a fighting stance. She zoomed forward so as to be only scant centimetres away from Rorke's faceplate, large magenta eyes narrowed and staring into his red optics.
"You wanna say that again, bub?" she hissed, wings flapping angrily. Rorke leaned closer, helmet's targeting reticules locking onto the Pony. His voice was a mocking, exaggerated whisper.
"You. Are. A. Shit."
For a moment the Astartes thought Rainbow was going to crack and come at him. He hoped so; then at least he'd have the justification of self-defence when he tore her apart. But eventually she seemed to curb her anger and retreated, giving him a final scowl before skyrocketing back into the clouds with an audible sonic boom. Rorke watched her go for a moment, before growling in frustration and beginning his march down the hill. Maybe they'd leave him alone if he went to the outskirts of that bastard forest. The Iron Warrior barely got ten paces before a familiar, bratty voice called out behind him.
"Hey, tall dark and ugly!"
With some effort Rorke shrugged off the insult, turning to see what the Xenos had to say. Rainbow was hovering where'd she'd been before, fixing him with a hard stare.
"What is your problem?" she called out, flicking her multi-coloured hair up. "I mean, the Princess agrees to get you home and ignores all the things you've done-which is completely uncool, by the way-but you're all still acting like a bunch of jerks!"
Rorke knew he should have ignored Rainbow Dash and carried on walking, but something in her tone agitated his temper. He took step towards her, hand unconsciously moving onto the hilt of his Power Sword. Rainbow gulped, but kept up a brave face.
"Would you like to know my problem, little Xenos?" Rorke asked, struggling to keep his voice level. Her silence was invitation to continue. "Before the Thousand Sons ambushed us there were around 70 of us on the ship. 70 Battle-brothers, and all of them were of the Legion. After we crashed, there were about what-35? 40? about 40 of us left. When we sat out on that little errand for your precious Princess, there were 27 Iron Warriors. And now, there's 15." The urge to put a bolt in something's brain was almost overwhelming, and Rorke found himself trembling slightly." "54 Space Marines. 1 Obliterator. There are star systems that are worth less, alien. So you tell me what you think my problem is with being stuck here and having to play nice with your kind."
He didn't wait for a reply. Rorke continued his angry stride down the hill, suppressed rage carrying him forwards. A couple of Ponies stopped to look at the stomping giant in their midst as he passed with a mixture of fear and disgust, but they were intelligent enough to manoeuvre out of his path. The Champion lashed out at some form of picnic table as he walked, his boot crashing straight through the feeble wooden planks. Lorkhan would be pissed if he found out, but the Warsmith's approval was the last shitting thing Rorke cared about right now.
He stopped when most of the Xenos had fled from him, breathing deeply in an attempt to calm down and stop his frame spasming and shaking. Lorkhan had pointed out that affectation when they were in the forest, and although he hadn't made a big deal about it in truth Rorke found it as disturbing as his brothers did. He tried reciting the words of the Unbreakable Litany, but as ever they proved little comfort.
It took him a minute or two to notice the Xenos by his side. Her coat was mint-green with an off-white mane, whilst the image of some kind of stringed musical instrument was stamped on her side. Wide golden eyes stared at, as far as Rorke could tell, his hands, whilst her mouth had dropped open in a concoction of awe and lust. She was absolutely silent bar heavy breathing, seemingly unperturbed by the demi-god she sat beside.
"The fuck are you looking at?" Rorke growled.
Honesty.
"Now, ah gotta be honest here." The orange pony with the hat-Applejack-said as she trotted up the hill. "Ah don't lahk ya. If tha Princess think that y'all should be let loose round Ponyville, then shoot, that ain't none of mah business. But what'cah boss did tah Pinie was downright despicable-ah don't trust yah, and ah don't lahk ya. Are we clear?"
"Whatever." Zuko replied, only half paying attention as he stumbled awkwardly. He didn't know where Lorkhan had managed to drag the bionic legs up from-he wasn't sure he wanted to know-and the Warsmith's admission that he had no idea what he was doing hadn't reassured the Champion. But somehow it'd worked, although Zuko's bionic grafts had yet to take fully, making walking somewhat of a challenge. He'd lost count of how many times he almost stepped on the small yellow pony with a bow in her hair that seemed intent on milling around by his feet. She was one if the group who he'd 'saved' in Canterlot, Zuko had realised, and the fact that she'd helped spare the Iron Warriors' lives earned her some grudging respect from the Champion. But she seemed to have made the mistake of assuming they were now friends, sticking close to Zuko whenever he was near. The buzzing of his beloved power fist-now returned to its proper place on his arm-summed up his feelings on the matter personally.
Applejack gave him a suspicious sidelong glance, but seemed content for the meanwhile. They continued walking, stopping when they reached a point overlooking much of the orchard. Apple trees stretched as far as even his Astartes eyes could see, standing sentinel over neatly ploughed fields. It certainly seemed efficient enough, although the focus on apples and apple-related goods above all else was a little...creepy.
Applejack trotted up to the nearest apple tree, placing the basket slung over her back beneath it as she did so. She turned so her rear was facing the tree, before casting another look at Zuko.
"Before ah start, are yah sure yah wanna help us with tha' harvest?"
The Iron Warrior nodded. He was; not because he actually wanted to help, but because he realised this was the easiest way to get food coming in to the Warband and its serfs. That, and Lorkhan had said they were to make themselves useful - at least for the time being.
"Well...that's maghty decent of yah." Applejack admitted. She kicked out with her back legs, striking the tree with considerable force. It vibrated, apples dropping neatly from the branches into the baskets. The Xenos farmer retrieved her hoard and piled it into the wheelbarrow they'd brought, moving the now-empty basket to the next tree.
"That's pretty much all there is to it." She said. "AB'll help ya if yah need it." Zuko assumed 'AB' was the smaller horse, grunting in acknowledgement. He started work on the closest tree, the yellow Pony sticking close to him as promised. She needn't have-Zuko's strength made shaking the fruit loose an easy task. Applejack's strength was commendable, but the Astartes moved at least as fast. The group worked in silence, Zuko constantly aware of AB's stare when his back was turned and Applejack's searching glances. After half an hour they'd cleared at least fifty trees collectively, when an ear pitching screech broke the farm's stillness.
"What in tarnation..." AJ muttered, glaring at Zuko as she and AB ran back to the crest of the hill. Zuko followed, already having an inkling. Near the barn Zuko could just make out a small greenish pony running as fast as its legs could carry it as the source of the screech. Behind it came Rorke, bellowing expletives and swinging his power sword in a liberal manner. Zuko was impressed that the Pony was outpacing his brother, but utterly unsurprised by the turn of events.
"Oh, for Pony's sake!" Applejack cried, stamping a hoof in frustration. She eyed Zuko angrily. "Ah don't suppose y'all have an explanation for this?"
"Besides Rorke's rampant stupidity, no."
AJ didn't seem wholly satisfied with the answer, trotting towards Zuko.
"Ahm gonna go help Lyra. You trah anything-" she said, prodding Zuko with a hoof "-or hurt mah sister, and ah swear..." She trailed off, before turning and running down the hill towards Rorke, snatching her lasso up as she went. Zuko and AB watched her go, before the Iron Warrior turned away and went back to shaking the tree he'd been working on.
"Ahm Applebloom." A small but confident voice said behind him. "Pleased to meet'cha, mister..."
Zuko stopped shaking, resting his horned helmet on the bark. Here they came, the questions. He'd been expecting as much. Silently, Zuko called on the Primarch for strength.
"Zuko." He answered curtly.
"Pleased to meet'cha Mr Zuko." There was a pause. "So...you're from space."
"Yes." Zuko made a point of not looking at her, continuing to harvest the apples.
"Whut's it lahk in space?"
"Grim."
"Grim?"
"Yes. And Dark."
"Oh." There was another pause. "Mah big sis says y'all went intah the Everfree forest."
"Yes."
"Did'cha meet Zecora?" Applebloom said, excitedly.
"What's a Zecora?"
"Oh, she's a zebra who lives in a hut in the forest. Everyone thought she was bad, but ah found out she weren't, and now she's mah friend and teaches me to make potions and stuff! She's almost as cool as Applejack!"
Zuko had stopped shaking the tree now. Images of a falling branch replayed over and over in his mind.
"Erm...nope, can't say that we did, excuse me, got to get to this tree, busy doing Iron Warrior stuff." He walked with speed, shaking the tree with increased vigour. He could feel Applebloom's gaze on the back of his neck.
"Oh...only, no one's seen her for a few days, and ahm startin' ta-"
"Who were your companions in the city?" Zuko asked, loudly and desperately.
To Zuko's relief she approached the subject with aplomb. "Oh, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo? They're at Pinkie Pah's right now. I wanted ta go but AJ said I had tah help with the harvest...anyway, we're the cutie mark crusaders, and we're a super-secret club tryin tah find our special talents! Only, we don't know what they are yet, so that means we have to trah everything!" She went on, Zuko tuning her out for the most part. Only the occasional mention of 'Cockatrice' or 'talent show' confused him enough to get his attention. It wasn't long until the questions were coming again.
"Whut's your cutie mark mean?"
"My what?"
"Your cutie mark." She pointed. "On yah shoulder."
"It's not a 'cutie mark'." He replied, tapping the helmeted skull affectionately. "It's the Iron Warriors Legion symbol."
"What's it mean?"
"It doesn't mean anything. It's just a symbol."
"So...that means yah don't have a cutie mark?" Zuko stopped shaking the tree, sighing and dipping his head against the trunk again.
"I guess not."
"So that means...yah can join the Cutie Mark Crusaders!" Applebloom's voice picked up excitedly, and she started hopping around his feet squeaking. Zuko looked at her despairingly.
"I'm...alright."
Applebloom abruptly stopped her bounding, face falling and ears drooping. She kicked a hoof along the ground sadly.
"Oh...mm'kay then."
Zuko nodded, turning back to his work.
"So...if y'all are soldiers from space...and there was some big war or somethin'...then wah'd yah lose?"
Applebloom yelped in fear as Zuko's power fist roared into life. The tree he'd been shaking toppled as he punched straight through, energy field crackling on the wood. Slowly the Iron Warrior rounded on the filly, heartblood-red optics blazing. She stumbled back a few steps, squeezing her eyes shut and desperately trying to shield herself from the imminent attack.
"Ahm sorry, ahm sorry, ahm sorry!" she cried, shaking. She fought to control her breathing, voice quietning a little. "It's just...ah wanted tah say thank ya. I mean...I know y'all must really hate bein' here. All the grown-ups are bein' really mean towards yah. But yah saved us from the Changelings, even if ya didn't really mean tah. If it weren't for you me and mah friends'd be dead right now! So...thank ya."
She waited for the fists to fall. They didn't. Applebloom stopped shaking, opening one eye, then another. Zuko was standing before her, head tilted slightly. Where before he'd been aggressive, now he regarded Applebloom with nothing but mystification.
"...don't mention it." He said eventually. His voice was still deep and frightening, but had ever so slightly mellowed. Applebloom smiled, standing to walk over to him.
"EVER."
Magic.
Vortun groaned internally as another of the fibre-thin wires pierced his mutated flesh. A small electric shock ran through him, but the Obliterator refused to budge. It was still uncomfortable, and Vortun wondered yet again how he'd got himself into this position.
Any sort of attempt to mourn his lost brother was cut short, as Vortun had found himself eagerly hurried into the peculiar hollowed out tree that the Iron Warriors had spotted earlier. It turned out to be the local library - a fairly exhaustive one at that -and also home for one Twilight Sparkle. The purple Unicorn had accompanied the Company onto the wreck of the Olympian Sun, and afterwards had relentlessly pestered Lorkhan into allowing her to study an Obliterator. The Warsmith had eventually relented, sending Vortun. With some effort he had managed to squeeze into the basement, although the bulky transhuman filled pretty much the entirety of the floor-space.
What space did exist was filled with scientific hardware and whirring machines that seemed completely inconsistent with the technology level Vortun had previously observed the Xenos to possess. The Obliterator himself was hooked up to most of these by various cables, streams of data being hastily sketched onto graphs and printed out. He tried his best to remain impassive, but the constant movement, teleportation and chin-scratching of his host only served to distract him.
"Frau Sparkle, I don't think zat-"
"Hush. Quiet, please." She cut him off briskly, still engrossed with examining one of the peculiar diagrams the machines had produced. The novelty at being addressed in such a way was enough to stop the Obliterator crushing the Xenos.
"I'm just zaying, vat exactly do you hope to accomplish from zis...examination?" Now Twilight did look up, eyes half closed in either annoyance or exhausting. Her voice was patient, but hostile.
"You and your...friends, are unlike anything ever seen in Equestria before. Therefore, we have literally no idea what we're dealing with, and frankly I don't like that mister. So we're going to run these tests, and check the books, and REcheck the books, until I have an idea what in the hay you are, okay? Especially for a freak like you." Vortun looked at her, keeping his face neutral.
Twilight simply rolled her eyes at his lack of co-operation, returning to her studies. Levitating a book beside her, she donned a pair of reading glasses and scrawled something in it. Her brow furrowed in confusion.
"These readings...they're completely insane! I've never seen anything like them." A note of professional curiosity had crept into her voice, although she was clearly working to suppress it. The door on the small walkway above them slammed shut angrily; moments later, a small purple dragon toddled down the stairs, glaring at Vortun and waving a rolled-up newspaper in his direction. The Obliterator did the best he could to raise an eyebrow.
"Vat exactly are you intending to do with zat, small saurian?" The dragon looked a little shaken, and his eyes were slightly puffy, but he still waved the makeshift weapon in mock imitation of threat.
"No way I'm leaving Twilight in here with you, monster. You want her? You're going through me."
Twilight seemed touched by his defence of her, but also a little concerned. For his part Vortun was just trying not to laugh.
"Spike...are you okay?" She asked, reaching out to place a hoof on his shoulder. The baby dragon shrugged her off, turning away and clenching his fists tightly.
"I'm fine." Twilight looked at her assistant, then back up at the Obliterator. Vortun gave an innocent shrug. The Unicorn's horn lit up for a brief moment, before fizzling out. She turned back to her study. Vortun watched Spike for a moment, hoping he'd provide some further drama to alleviate some of the boredom of being here. It was clear he wasn't rising to it, yet nor was he focusing on the Obliterator any more.
"Little von." He said, tapping a power talon on what remained of his warped power armour. The sound echoed around the confined room. "You seem upset."
"Shut up okay!" Spike shouted. Small licks of green flame erupted from his nostrils. Vortun smiled, flexing his claws as subconscious Astartes battle reflexes began to kick in. Before Spike could kick off, Twilight had stepped between the pair, a shield of purple light not unlike the one the Iron Warriors had been trapped within in Canterlot encompassed Vortun.
"That's enough." She said, sternly. "Just, please behave until I've finished the tests? Please? Then I promise you can go."
Vortun stared at her in impassive silence. Twilight watched him for a moment, before her shoulders deflated and she shook her head despairingly. The Obliterator turned his attention to one of the date-engiens he was connected to, running a mutated fist down it.
"You do realise zat I could break out of here whenever I velt like it?" He said idly. "Is nacht difficult." Twilight took a deep breath that the Obliterator assumed was to calm herself.
"You could." She conceded. "You definitely could. But, I know you won't."
"And vhy is zat?"
"Because if you did try, then Princess Celestia would kick your butt!" Spike cut in, a feral grin replacing his previous maudlin demeanor. Vortun did not reply, or even move; but change did begin to overtake the blessed warrior. Machines flashed and whirred, needles scribbling on paper even more rapidly, as one of Vortun's arms was reformed into a gargoyle-mouthed plasma cannon thrumming with barely contained power. The mutation was echoed by the ugly sneer cracking the Obliterator's face. Twilight and Spike retreated, stumbling over discarded scrolls of paper. The Unicorn's ears drooped as she realised just how much Vortun towered over her. Spike had taken refuge behind her, peering out from behind a leg.
"Vill she?" Vortun asked. His voice was deceptively calm, and quiet; completely at odds with his monstrous form. "Really?"
Kindness.
Lorkhan closed his eyes, focusing on the sound of spades breaking earth and metal being bolted into place. The familiar action of construction and fortification brought the Warsmith a measure of contentment; he could almost ignore the trembling yellow and pink bundle by his feet.
'Fluttershy' - it turned out that was her name - padded the ground in what the Iron Warrior guessed was nervousness, the expression enhanced by her predilection towards covering her face with her long, flowing mane. She'd said next to nothing, or barely even made looked at Lorkhan, since they'd arrived. That suited the Warsmith fine; he wasn't in the mood for discussion, especially with this particular alien.
"The trenches should be two metres forward," he voxed out loud, not bothering to keep it private. "and 57 more degrees counter-clockwise." The two closest Iron Warriors nodded, moving to comply with their entrenching tools.
"Umm...I don't think..." Fluttershy mumbled. Lorkhan felt his grip on his axe tightening.
"Every Iron Warrior is, as well as an exceptional soldier, an experienced architectural journeyman. Celestia asked me to repair your hovel, and against my better judgement I'm going along with it, so don't tell me what you don't think."
"Oh, I know you're trying to help, but...can't you put it back the way it was?" Lorkhan gave her a look that spelled out his answer, before letting loose an exasperated sigh. The sound of chisels broke the air again, restoring a measure of peace. It was only a measure.
When presented with the reconstruction task, Lorkhan had been surprised to find that the cottage wasn't some natural, magically-altered creation. It was fashioned from timber, glass and nails like any building, with the grassy roof being artificially planted. Peculiarly there were a lot of allowances made to have room for animals to dwell. Then again, from what Lorkhan had observed, Fluttershy seemed to have taken an entirely fitting government-sponsored ecological job.
He supposed the design was aesthetically pleasing enough, if he'd ever cared for such things. But Lorkhan was an Iron Warrior, and upon seeing the sight the first thing that had struck him was the complete lack of defensive features. The Equestrians had very little need for functional fortresses, he'd observed that much. But the complete lack of kill-boxes, ease of approach by tracked vehicles, substantial deficiencies in anti-aircraft fire...his professional instincts were almost offended. He'd said as much to the small yellow horse.
"Oh, but, I mean I don't really want it to be impenetrable..." she started. Lorkhan sighed again, before unclipping a tube that had been mag-locked to his belt. Popping the lid off, he removed the parchment from within, before opening it and holding it so Fluttershy could see.
"Your house will still be a functional place of habitation." The Iron Warrior said, adopting a business-like tone. "We have merely provided additional reinforcement to areas formerly bereft of sufficient...iron. Here, and here." He pointed at two marked areas on the diagram. As if parroting his motion, the other Iron Warriors began to hammer the sheets of metal into place on the side of the half-rebuilt cottage. Lorkhan had wanted Rorke for this job, to direct the work whilst he inevitably had to placate Fluttershy herself, but the Champion had managed to slip off. "Now, we've marked these three areas to mount the battle cannon. Where do you want it?"
"B-Battlecannon?" Fluttershy whimpered. Lorkhan rolled his eyes, jerking a thumb over his shoulder. One of the Obliterators, with the help of its unblessed brethren, was dragging the heavy cannon towards the construction site. The Iron Warriors had managed to tear it from the remains of a battle tank found in their ship's wrecked hangar bays. It had galled many of them to bequeath it to a Xenos, but Lorkhan had pointed out that they were still craftsmen as well as mass-murderers, and they may as well do the job right; besides, they could always take it back if needs be.
"Oh, m-my..." the Xenos whimpered. She buried herself in her hair even further, now shaking slightly. Lorkhan went back to watching his men work, pleased at the progress they'd made in turning the cottage into a stronghold.
"Why are you so mean?"
The question took him off guard, as well as raising his temper. Lorkhan turned to face the pony, surprised to find she was now looking right at him, even if one eye was hidden. She squeaked pitifully as their eyes met; Lorkhan had fashioned some of the lower part of his helmet into a skull. That probably wasn't helping.
"We were made to be this way." He answered in a stony voice. Fluttershy squeaked again, and Lorkhan saw tears forming in her eyes. This stress of all this was seemingly too much for her. The Warsmith forced himself not to stamp the pathetic creature into the ground, instead reviewing the blueprints he had drawn again.
"I could say the same." He said, curious despite himself. "Why are you such a coward?" He hadn't been expecting an answer from the alien, instead bracing himself for something along the lines of her running away sobbing. A guttural Olympian curse met his ears, presumably because one of his Iron Warriors had dropped the metal sheet they we reinstalling on his foot.
"Well...m-my dad...he left when I was a little filly..."
It surprised the Warsmith enough to get him to look up from the blueprint. Fluttershy wasn't crying now, instead staring at the ground as if reliving some trauma. It occurred to him that this pony was far from the most sociable he'd seen; what if he was the first creature Fluttershy had ever told this too? If so that was a hell of a bad decision.
Maybe that was the point. Maybe she just wanted to get it off her chest, and not be judged for it.
"My father left too." Lorkhan said. He wasn't sure why he said it, and dragging up the memories certainly didn't make him feel better. But Fluttershy did look at him now; not smiling, but not as fearfully as she had done. Lorkhan's iron mask was as emotionless as ever. For a brief moment, a debased form of kinship threatened to blossom between them. It evaporated the moment Lorkhan's vox chimed.
"I have the special order, lord. Where's it going?"
"Around the edges, the weak points we identified." Lorkhan said out loud. On cue, three Iron Warriors clutching a wide array of explosive charges ambled past him and Fluttershy. The pony squeaked again.
"A-are you sure that's safe?" She asked, voice almost inaudible even to Lorkhan's enhanced hearing.
"Relax, will you?" He retorted. "We just need to loosen up some of the rock to install the tank traps and so forth. We're seasoned professionals at this." He rolled the blueprint up again, slotting it back in its canister and flexing his arms. "What could possibly go wrong?"
Laughter.
"Why are we doing this, this is so stupid."
Barbus couldn't see Varvillon's expression, but from the way his shoulders moved it was fairly obvious he was laughing. The studious Astartes wouldn't have been Barbus' first choice of companion, but anyone of Olympian blood was better than no-one when it came to this blasted bakery.
"I thought you'd be asking rather more obvious questions." Varvillon retorted. "Like, where's that music coming from?"
"Thank you." Barbus deadpanned. "I'd been trying not to think about that."
The two super soldiers were stood at the periphery of Sugercube corner's kitchen, which is probably the last place in the galaxy Barbus had ever expected to be. If indeed this was the galaxy as they knew it; frankly, the Iron Warrior was still having doubts over that. Frankly he was still surprised that he'd managed to fit inside these buildings at all; then again, this whole place did seem like something out of a child's holo-pict. Although in the holo-picts that Barbus remembered the aliens were always crushed under the boot heel of mankind ascendant at the end.
He wasn't doing much crushing of anything at the moment.
On the other side of the room, in the bakery's kitchen area, were three of the Xenos. Barbus had been learning their names throughout the day by listening in; the pink one, presumably the oldest and the one Lorkhan had engaged in heroic battle, was called Pinkie Pie, which was easy enough to remember. She was the one singing along to the music, apparently espousing the virtue of making baked confectionary to her two assistants. Varvillon had noted, with some degree of interest, the reality-bending powers she seemed to possess; twice during the song she had disappeared, only to reappear from within an oven or behind a lampshade. Much like the music seemingly spawned ex nihilo, Barbus preferred not to think about it. Of the two little ones, the orange one with the shorter hair was called Scootaloo, whilst the white one's name was Sweetie Belle. All of them seemed to be doing their best to completely ignore the Astartes' presence, although Sweetie had cast a few fearful glances in their direction.
"Do you think it'd help if we took our helmets off?" Varvillon asked.
"Probably." Barbus admitted. Varvillon stared at him a moment, just to be certain his brother had no intention of removing said helmet.
One of the ovens beeped, and Pinkie hopped over to it. She always travelled like that; hopping, as well as having a goofy grin plastered across her face. Even though she wasn't talking to Space Marines, being in her presence was grating in the extreme. The only reason he'd come was it was somewhere to hide out and beat helping Lorkhan in his community service, or being prodded with a stick like Vortun, or...whatever Mordecai was doing.
Pinkie opened the oven, pulling the tray containing the baked goods out with her teeth. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo's faces lit up at the sight, whilst Varvillon watched with detached academic interest. Pinkie gently placed the tray on the counter, before giggling to herself slightly.
"Alrighty then, Crusaderinos!" Gods, that voice really is annoying. "Now that they're baked, it's time to get caked!" The complete lack of sense the sentence made was almost physically painful to Barbus. Before Pinkie could murder the language any more, there was a knock at the door. The pink horse left the other two with a bowl of leftover mixture, bounding past to answer the knock. Again, she made a point of not looking at the Iron Warriors. For their part the Marines kept staring at the two juveniles, but the conversation could clearly be heard.
"Oh, Applejack, you're just in time! We were baking some muffins, well when I say we I meant me mainly, but the Crusaders were helping me, and Derpy was meant to be here but she's not so-"
"No tahm Pinkie, have y'all seen Lahra?"
"Lyra?...no, can't say I have, sorry AJ! I saw 'Tavi earlier though, but she didn't want to come and make muffins, which I think is a shame because-"
"No tahm Pinkie, ah need tah fahnd Lahra...aw horseapples, there those varmints are, gotta run"
Barbus didn't hear the door close. Instead he remained focused on the two little ponies across the room; for a moment he thought they were actually going to try and talk to him, but fortunately they seemed more scared of the Marines than anything. At least they weren't stupid, then. Sweetie Belle was spending her time sniffing the steaming muffins, a blissful expression on her face. Scootaloo on the other hand was grinning devilishly, handling the bowl of mixture and dipping a hoof in. She flicked the residue at Sweetie, coating her white fur with blobs of cake mixture. Sweetie looked down in surprise, before up at her friend with a grin. Grabbing some flour from a packet, she threw that a sway of response, staining Scootaloo's coat white. Before long a fully blown food fight was in progress, Ponies ducking behind the counter for cover. Barbus heard Varvillon laughing; he turned to look at his fellow Iron Warrior.
"I'm starting to think you actually like these things." Barbus said, sounding as if he was describing liking a fungus. Barbus drew in breath to reply, but was cut off by another shrill screech.
"Girls, no no no!"
Barbus looked back at the chaos. In the confusion it seemed Sweetie Belle had produced a knife from somewhere, and was pretending to assault Scootaloo with it. Pinkie apparently took a dim view, running - not hopping - across the room and snatching the knife away. Sweetie looked at the ground, like a naughty child being sent to the principal's office.
"Sorry Pinkie..."
The stern look that had crossed he pink Xenos' face vanished in an instant, and she drew both children into an embrace.
"Aww, that's okay girls. You just have to be careful with these things, okay?"
"Okay." They said in chorus. It was all Barbus could do not to stick a grenade down his own throat in despair. Pinkie released her friends, looking at her wrist. It seems she'd...drawn her own watch on. That was another thing Barbus decided not to think about, but by now his head was starting to hurt.
"Great googly moogly, just look at the time!" Pinkie cried, slapping her face with a hoof in exaggerated surprise. "It's time for you girls to have a nap!"
"Aww, but we're not even tired..." Sweetie Belle said.
"Yeah, and besides, we're not babies, we haven't had a nap in years!" Scootaloo finished. Sweetie Belle's face reddened, but she nodded in agreement, Barbus felt like he needed a nap.
"I know you don't want to girls," Pinkie said apologetically, with a rueful smile. "But we were up all night last night partying! And Rarity and Rainbow Dash said I have to be a responsible sitter, so that's what I'm gonna do!"
"...okay." The two little ponies mumbled, eyelids already drooping. Pinkie ushered them up the stairs, before finding them a room and tucking them into bed. Barbus and Varvillon followed, to seeing much else to do. The stairs creaked under their weight, but somehow managed to hold. When the two small Xenos were tucked up beneath the covers, Pinkie patted them each on the head once.
"Just for a few hours, then I promise we'll have lots of fun later!"
"Oh, maybe we can go crusading!" Sweetie Belle practically screamed, grinning from ear to ear. "We could get our Cutie Marks in...in..."
"In white water rapiding!" Scootaloo concluded, grinning even more. Pinkie clapped her hooves excitedly.
"That sounds super fun! Well, I'll see you later, mm'kay?"
"Goodnight Pinkie." Sweetie and Scootaloo chorused. Pinkie drew the blinds, and turned to bound out the room. She stopped for a moment, as if she was going to tell the Iron Warriors to leave, before deciding that giving them the silent treatment was more important. Varvillon moved to allow her to pass, and the sound of her hopping down the stairs was all that broke the silence.
Barbus and Varvillon turned and looked at Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked at Barbus and Varvillon. An awkward tension descended, Barbus flicking the end of one of the horns that curved around from the side of his helmet whilst Sweetie Belle hid under the covers with a squeak.
"Child." Barbus said eventually.
"Yeah?" Scootaloo answered. Sweetie squeaked again.
"You were chastised for playing with a blade." It wasn't a question. Sweetie's horn poked up from beneath the covers, followed by two large green eyes.
"Y-yeah, but...I guess it was wrong and stuff..."
Barbus didn't reply for a moment, just staring at the two Xenos. Then, he reached up to place a hand either side of his helmet and yanked upwards. The hiss of pressure being released indicated the broken seal. Taking it off, he held it in the crook of his arm, blinking.
"Have you ever wanted to know what it feels like to have a knife go through your eye?"
Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo screamed. Pinkie rushed back into the room, flinging the door open. Varvillon had slapped a palm into his face and was shaking his head sadly. Barbus just smiled, whilst his red bionic eye glowed and clicked.
"Sleep well, tiny horse."
Generosity.
"I must say," Rarity said, taking another sip of her tea. "You've been quite a surprise, my dear>"
Across the table her bulky guest demurely supped his own brew. Being forced to take a seat on the floor may have rankled with some of his more prideful brothers; yet, Mordecai had always been an advocate of 'ladies first'.
"Oh pish posh, think nothing on it." The sorcerer replied, casting an idle eye to his helmet. It rested on the table in front of him, glaring back at the Warlock. "If one is bound into service as a condition of stay, then one may as well make the best of it."
She chuckled elegantly, resting the cup on its saucer. Mordecai had found that his power armour made actually fitting a finger through the ring of the cups difficult; it hung in mid-air before him, suspended by his telekinetic power. He didn't technically need to drink it of course, but it would have been rude not to partake in his host's offer.
"Well you were an absolute darling in helping me run my errands today." The white horse continued. She smiled at him, and Mordecai was keenly aware that she was the first pony he'd encountered to do so. "Although I fear we gave poor little Spikey-Wikey a terrible shock."
"Your small dragon friend?" The Iron Warrior inquired. It had been he who had answered the door when Rarity and the sorcerer had visited the library for a quaint little volume titled historical styles of the Griffon Kingdoms, and was seemingly quite put off when he saw the rapport his two visitors had built. Mordecai wasn't sure why, but from the way he had looked at Rarity - not to mention the hormonal stench his Astartes senses had detected - he could make his own judgements. "He seemed a stout fellow. I'm sure he recovered post-haste."
"Oh, I suppose you're right." Rarity conceded, though her bottom lip stuck out in a small pout. She levitated her own drink now, swilling it with a teaspoon. "I just feel so awful for scaring the poor dear like that. You must admit," She flashed the Iron Warrior a coy smile. "you all make quite an impression."
Now it was Mordecai's turn to chuckle. A genuinely warm smile crossed his features, though he didn't meet her eyes. He wasn't like his brothers in terms of temperament, he knew that. Ever since they'd fled to the Eye after the Siege he'd been changing.
No, he wasn't like them. He probably never would be again.
"You are, of course, correct." He acknowledged. The weight of his rune inscribed sword and power axe was suddenly very heavy at his side. "It is in our very nature to be violent and cruel. By all rights we should have slaughtered every living thing on this planet by now." His voice never lost its jovial edge. Rarity was still smiling at him, but now it was noticeably more glassy - more forced. "Yet for all my dear brothers and I may loathe this place, we are not foolish enough to think that to pursue such a course of action would be conducive to our on-going success. I for one, intend to make the best of circumstances."
Rarity had recovered her poise by now. It occurred to Mordecai that the glamorous creature before him must have become an expert at feigning interest over the years. "Well, pardon me for being so...crass, but your friends certainly seem to be less positive about this than you."
"Alas, I fear they are the majority rather than the exception. We do not agree on many things, I regret to say. It is the cause of no small amount of...friction between us."
"Good heavens, you mean they ostracise you?" It surprised Mordecai to hear that she sounded legitimately saddened.
"Not ostracised so much my lady, more that they are...somewhat acutely alive to the existence of etiquette distinctions."
"Well, I say good riddance to them." Rarity snapped. Her eyes were steely. "You are quite the charmer Mr Mordecai, it must be said, and so I possibly imagine why you would willingly associate with such deplorable individuals. Especially that foul brute Lorkhan." Her voice was ice-cold now. "What he did to Pinkie was unforgivable."
"You must make allowances, my dear." Mordecai said in a patient voice. "This whole frightfully rummy affair has been a terrible strain on the Warsmith, particularly when our previous, less than prestigious style of living is considered. And I feel he may blame himself for some of our escapades in the forest at the behest of your Princess." He stared into his drink, as if plumbing it for answers. "My Lord Warsmith, whilst an extremely capable man in his own right, has the unfortunate tendency to not always consider matters with sufficient assiduity before embarking upon a course of action."
"But you would vouch for him then?" She looked unconvinced.
"I would." Mordecai affirmed. "Lorkhan may have his faults, I admit, but he is my captain and I am sure he will adjust to life here soon enough."
Mordecai was no telepath, nor could he see into the future's twisting paths. Yet even he had a terrible inkling that something was about to happen; an inkling that was answered moments later when the explosion happened. Rarity squealed and jumped about a foot in the air, dropping her cup in fright. It shattered, spilling the liquid all over the floor. Mordecai calmly placed his cup down with a sigh, and went to join her by the window.
Something had slammed into the ground outside Carousel Boutique, leaving a crater only slightly smaller than some artillery shells. Steam was rising from it, but the crowds of ponies gathered around it made identifying the object difficult. He was finally able to tell that it was a letter box, ripped from the ground by a powerful blast and sent careening through the air. The word 'Fluttershy' was just visible on the side. As expected, a familiar voice could be heard from the other side of town, unmistakable despite Mordecai's distance from its source.
"WELL EXCUSE ME PRINCESS."
Before Mordecai could speak up, a mint-green pony dashed across the impact sight, a wail emanating from her throat. Rorke, of course, was behind her, screaming just as incoherently. A rope was attached to his leg; an orange pony with a hat clutched the other end in her teeth in what looked like an effort to slow the Iron Warrior down, although he dragged her along with little effort. The procession dashed in front of the crowd, before disappearing from sight.
The sorcerer watched all this with a detached and aloof air. He was keenly aware of Rarity's disapproving gaze burning into his side. Mordecai turned to face her, his face a stoic and emotionless mask.
"Acclimatisation...may take longer than expected." |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | OiM Special: Olympia boys | Y'all realise that isn't a word, right?" Applejack asked Pinkie with a tired glance. The pink pony didn't seem to care about her friends' correction, continuing to blather onwards about how 'nervecited' she was.
Twilight wasn't really listening to any of it. The Alicorn princesses' eyes were firmly locked on the glowing portal before her, its depths glistening and shimmering with an ephemeral light. It seemed almost inviting, drawing Twilight's gaze deep into the roiling tides. Only the stark truth of her mission gave her pause, and kept her standing well back from the gateway.
"Twilight?" Cadance asked. Twilight looked at the Princess-her equal, now-with an uneasy smile. The Princess of Love returned it. "Are you okay?"
"I...I think so." Twilight said, forcing her voice to sound a lot more confident than she felt. "It's just...anything could be on the other side of that portal. We have no idea what we're dealing with here."
Cadence flashed another apologetic, supportive smile, but it was cut off by an even higher power. "I know you must be frightened, Princess Sparkle." It was a warm voice, a maternal voice. Twilight took heart at hearing Celestia's words of belief. "But I would not send you if I did not think you could do it. The crown must be recovered from whatever is one the other side, and as Princess of Friendship only you have the power to get it back."
"Yeah, and besides, if you need us you bet we'll be right through after ya!" Rainbow cried, excitably as ever.
"You mean it?" Twilight asked, confidence swelling even more.
"Well, duh!"
"Absolutely Darling."
"Darn tootin'."
Touched by her friends' faith in her, Twilight turned to look back at the portal. It still ebbed and flowed with white light, beckoning her onwards. She took a deep breath, flexing her wings. She hadn't had much time to practice with them yet, but learning on the job had never been that difficult for her. Feeling the familiar weight of Spike on her back, she took her first tentative steps forward. The steps became more definite, more deliberate. Before she knew what was happening, Twilight found herself being enveloped by the white aura.
"Good luck, Twilight Sparkle." She heard Celestia say behind her. "Soon, you'll know more about that world than even I do."
Sp...Spike?
The floor was cold. That was the first thing she noticed, after the terrible buzzing in in her head had vanished. It was cold metal pressing onto her skin, chilling right through to the bone. The floor felt strangely sticky too-not sticky as in there was some foul substance spilt there, but almost sticky with corruption. It made her nostrils burn and her eyes water. Gently, Twilight propped herself up. Her vision was still swimming in the aftermath of the transition, but other senses were returning, and in short order she realised Spike was not trying to talk to her. She had not even heard his little voice. She tried to call out, but couldn't tell whether she'd actually made a sound. Other noises were coming into audible range though. It was a low droning, punctuated by the occasional creaking and what sounded like...mutters.
She blinked, trying to clear her vision. Something purple began to swim into focus. She squinted, in an attempt to make it clearer. It was...it was something awful. It was like a huge purple stick where her hoof should be, with five smaller sticks sprouting from the end. They wiggled when she tensed. Both her forehooves had been replaced with these...things, and the shock of realising they were part of her drove Twilight to her feet with a gasp.
"Wh-what?" Was all she could manage, even Spike's plight temporarily forgotten. Before she could calm down and try to reach a rational conclusion, another thought struck Twilight. She was standing on her hind legs.
It was worse than that. Her lower hooves had been replaced with strange fleshy constructs as well, although exactly what they were was difficult to tell due to the clothing she had materialised with. To Twilight's eyes, she appeared to have shed her Pony form entirely. No magical horn crested her head, nor wings sprouted from her back.
Panic overtook her. Twilight-that is, if she was still Twilight, and that was looking more unlikely by the second-stumbled back and forth, only just making out details around her. Shapes were moving, lights flashed and what looked almost like a skull loomed at her from the wall. She didn't know where Spike was still, but Twilight feared the worst. Despairing, she dropped to her knees, eyes watering.
"WHAT AM-"
She never got to finish her sentence before the first bolt slammed into her back. Twilight went rigid, not comprehending for a moment what had happened. The pain began to lance through her as the explosive munition detonated, tearing most of her back off in the process. She slammed face-first into the floor, the stickiness now as much due to her own pooling blood as any latent corruption. More bolts slammed as she fell, ripping off arms and the side of her body. Twilight's thoughts were a well of pain, shock and fear. Her eyes stung with tears as memories of her friends came flashing to the fore. She didn't suppose she'd ever see them again. The strange creature that had once been Twilight Sparkle only just had time to wonder what form of twisted dimension she had entered before another bolt detonated inside her skull, silencing the Princess of Friendship forever.
"Yeah, but...what is it?" Zuko asked as he gave the purple blob another kick with the tip of his boot. The other Iron Warriors that had been on the bridge had formed a loose circle, also prodding the remains with a mix of cruelty and genuine interest.
From atop the throne of black iron at the other end of the room, two blazing red eyes stared down at what was left at the interloper. Lorkhan shifted in his chair, resting his chin on a fist. To his right, Mordecai folded his arms, cocking his head to the side.
"I would advise that you don't touch it, old sport." He called across to Zuko. "This whole thing seems to be a frightfully rummy affair."
"How the hell did it get on-board." Lorkhan growled. The distortion provided by his armour, coupled with his naturally threatening voice, sent the nearby mortals scurrying away. Zuko shrugged.
"If I knew I'd tell you. It just...appeared. Shoot first, ask questions later and all that."
Lorkhan grunted. Hard to disagree with that. He rose from the throne, stepping down from the dais on which it sat and coming to stand over the corpse. He knelt down beside it, the other Iron Warriors parting to let him through. Beneath his helmet the Warsmith squinted. The creature had been pulped, but as he looked over it there was something almost....human about it. Its fear had seemed human enough. And idle thought passed to what it could have been; he dismissed it.
"Teleportation?" He asked. Zuko shrugged. An uneasy feeling ran through the Warsmith as he considered the implications.
"That dog...thing?" Lorkhan asked, still looking down at the body.
"Ask Rorke's shoe." Somehow, the complete lack of emotion in Zuko's voice was almost humorous. Lorkhan rose, turning away from the body and striding towards the blast door of the Olympian Sun's bridge. He felt his warrior's eyes on the back of his head as he went.
"The body, Lord?"
"Feed it to the Raptors." |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Iron Blood | Shape became light. Light became colour as form and ethereal construct seamlessly melded around itself in a bespoke dance. Stones used to a life of dull neglect and claustrophobic deprivation of light's rays were illuminated for the first time in years by the kaleidoscopic array of sheer existence that caressed them. The light twisted and cavorted even more, a faint whistling beginning to rise as the spectrum entwined further.
The rainbow continued to warp, expanding so as to lap at every corner of the chamber. It could well have been considered beautiful by those who watched; all bar one, who'd never understood the concept of beauty in his life. The whistling grew louder and more harmonious as bolts of lightning discharged from thrumming Van Graffe devices affixed to hastily erected generators. These electrical surges now began to coalesce themselves at the centre of the multi-hued storm that had expanded to fill nearly the entire room. From behind the magically-warded pane of glass that separated the onlookers from the genesis taking place, gasps emerged. They were unanimously from equine throats.
As the lightning and the rainbow fused, a second birthing took place. At the eye of the storm a tear began to grow, itself warping around its own form. The tear stood in contrast to that which surrounded it; black against light, silent and withdrawn against the radiance. It throbbed as the generators poured more power into the storm, expanding here, withdrawing there. A sizzling soup of colour surrounded it, yet somehow it could not disguise the black; instead making the omission of being all the starker.
Paradigms shifted. Reality jolted. The black within the rainbow began to expand now, enveloping all else. It devoured light and lightning, tore through the polychromatic prison. Yet everything it consumed, it vomited forth as it retracted even swifter now to a fraction of its size. Expansion, contraction, expansion, contraction, like a balloon being inflated and deflated far too rapidly. The black grew ever further, enveloping what the light had once covered, before contracting in one final time. This last recession went further than ever before, the sound of a vacuum sucking all in replacing the pleasant whistling. Then, with a *ping* the black tear blinked out of existence, leaving the rainbows to drift by idly. For a moment, all was still.
"Oh, shi-"
The explosion blasted even those behind the glass backwards, miniature Xenos bodies smashing against the harsh rock. Only two, the Goddess and the Smith, remained standing-yet even they were forced to avert their eyes as sheer waves of energy crashed against the seemingly meagre protection afforded to them. Torrents of reality and unreality repelled one another as they buffeted against the magical barrier, their disharmony serving to make the tide even more treacherous. Fleetingly, it seemed the shield would crack and all behind it would be engulfed in the contrasting true realm and realm beyond, ripped to shreds by the psychic forces at play with their souls the foodstuff for the waiting Neverborn that lay beyond.
Yet suddenly, the storm receded. The black and the rainbow pressed upon one another, each crushing its opposite to naught. The forces unleashed were sucked back into the realm from whence they came, leaving naught behind. As the tear closed shut with a final snap, an eerie silence descended over the room.
The Goddess was unresponsive for a moment, before reaching out with an alabaster hoof. The glass shattered, the magical wards protecting it dispelled now they were no longer needed. Ignorant of the shards cutting into her flesh, she stepped fearlessly into the chamber where moments ago creation itself had run rampant. The Smith followed behind; he had no hooves, yet the impact of ceramite boots on the glass that marked their failure somehow seemed to hurt him more. A gaggle of scientists and other personnel trailed afterwards, whispering excitedly whilst ensuring to remain apart from their displeased Princess and her even less amiable guest.
The chamber was a ruin, even more decrepit now than when they had arrived. One of the generators had been dragged into the non-realm by the tear, whilst the other's metal ran freely like molten wax. Holes had been blasted in the stone walls, allowing the light of the sun to stream in-real light this time, not the fake light of the rainbow.
It was to one of these gaps that the Goddess' eyes were drawn, as two brown Pegasi ascended to hover just outside. They clutched their spears tightly, and the normally detached mask they wore upon their face was replaced by a look of deep consternation.
"Princess Celestia!" One called out. "Are you alright?"
"I'm quite alright, Master Sergeant." Celestia replied with an elegant smile, forcing herself to sound calmer than she felt. "Just a little experiment gone awry, that's all." The two Pegasi looked at one another unsurely, but eventually nodded and floated out of sight. With a deep breath, Celestia composed herself.
"Your 'Warp drive' didn't work, it seems." She called over her shoulder.
"The device was fine." Lorkhan muttered in response, seemingly to himself. "It must be you. Something in your magic prevents it from bonding with the Warp." Celestia let him ramble and ponder, instead directing her attention to the group of academics accompanying them.
"Someone get a clear-up team here." She ordered. "The rest, back to the drawing board." The ponies filed out with meek supplications, leaving the Princess and the Iron Warrior alone in the shattered tower.
"At least we have windows now." Celestia ventured, attempting to inject some joviality into the situation.
"Most of the Legion's ships didn't have windows." Lorkhan replied, absent-mindedly. "We believed you could know everything you needed to about a battle through data streams, and windows were an unnecessary weak-point. Our ship, the Sun, was one of the few that did. The Iron Blood certainly didn't."
"'Iron Blood'?" Celestia repeated, mystified. "You mean to say you have more of those things you dropped from the sky in? What was the Iron Blood?"
Lorkhan cursed his momentary lapse under his breath. "All the Legions maintained their own war fleets, in order to ferry us across the stars to battle." He began, hoping to change the subject. She cut him off.
"Yes, but what was the Iron Blood?"
Lorkhan's Mechatendrils snapped angrily of their own volition as he sighed, looking down at the floor.
"It was our flagship." He said slowly, voice heavy with remembrance. "It was his ship."
Two hundred Warsmiths. Two hundred of the greatest warriors ever known to his Legion stood here, packed tightly onto one ship's bridge. And Lorkhan was one of them.
He stood between two Warsmiths he did not know, of the 27th and 15th Grand Battalions. The fighting on Hydra Cordatus had been costly, with many of the Legion's senior commanders dying in the gritty and back-breaking war, but the chance to humble Dorn's sons had been too great for the Iron Warriors to pass up. Now they were assembled on the Iron Blood-the Flagship of the Fourth Legion, and perhaps single most fearsome war engine mankind possessed bar the Vengeful Spirirt or the Phalanx-to receive their next tasking. The order demanding his attendance had surprised Lorkhan-the battle had been his first command, and he'd played relatively little part-but nor could it be refused.
The Iron Blood's bridge was always dark, and cold. Not dark like a Night Lord vessel, or cold like Russ' dogs liked it, but there was nothing in the way of comfort or leisure. Lumen strips bathed the warriors below in a shallow light, reflecting off their battered and grimy steel plate. Most hadn't even had time to wash their equipment. No starlight aided in providing illumination; there were no windows. On the walls hung dusty banners and tattered maps of old Earth, tied together with oath paper naming the Legion's greatest victories. They were names no-one outside this room would recognise, Lorkhan was sure. He didn't know why they were here, but he also knew better than to ask.
Before the gathered Warsmiths sat a raised dais. A throne was constructed upon it, fashioned from cold iron and the remains of a tyrant's treasury melted down. It was still blood-stained; remnants of Phall, where the corpses of Imperial Fists had not long ago littered the floor of the bridge. Lorkhan was a giant to ordinary men, but the throne would have been far too large even for him.
Before the throne, stood a demi-god.
"We are done with this world. Its fortress is dust, and its defenders ash."
Perturabo stepped forward to the edge of the Dais, his voice deep and rumbling. Lorkhan's gut began to twist as he tried to focus on anything other than the Primarch in his entirety. It was true the Lord of Iron didn't have the stature of Horus, Guilliman or the Angel that could drive Astartes to their knees with their mere presence. Yet Perturabo was still one of the Emperor's sons, even if that Emperor was false, and being in such proximity was potent enough. Lorkhan found it easier to bear by focusing on a single aspect of his Primarch at a time-the massive Warhammer slung almost casually over his shoulder that had been taken from the body of the dead Ferrus Manus, the stone pendant in the shape of their Legion symbol that the Phoenician had gifted unto Perturabo and clasped the cape that was draped across the back of his armour, or his grey, cold and eternally disapproving eyes. No cheers met Perturabo's words; he did not ask for his son's affections, only their compliance and understanding.
"We join our forces with that of the Third Legion, our mission to break open a xenos fortress and obtain weapons of such power that we will no longer need to take the metal to the stone. Win this war and our days of breaking earth will be over. We will be warriors again."
"My lord, do we now take our orders from the Phoenician?"
Lorkhan smirked lopsidedly beneath his helmet, anticipating the moment the outspoken Warsmith's head-Toramino's-would be sent sailing through the air in one of the Primarch's increasingly trademarks displays of terminal violence. Instead, and to Lorkhan's surprise, the Lord of Iron shook his head.
"No, Toramino, we do not. Brother Fulgrim presented me with an opportunity to wipe away our failure to destroy the Imperial Fists at Phall, and I chose to take it. In the absence of orders from the Warmaster, we will seize the initiative and become stronger than ever before." The Primarch was quiet for a moment, winteryeyes passing over all his assembled sons. "That is all. Return to your Grand Battalions."
There was nothing more to be said on the matter. Lorkhan found himself practically swept off the bridge by a tide of his fellow Warsmiths. He knew they were thinking the same things he was; namely, he didn't trust the Emperor's Children. Something had infected them on Isstvan V, something...unwholesome. Zuko, the new sergeant of fourth squad, had been the one that'd said it, and whilst Lorkhan had had to reprimand him for insulting another Legion it was what a mirror of what he himself thought.
Still, Father had not had to 'discipline' any of his Warsmiths today, which meant that this fresh campaign had focused him and improved his mood. If such were the case, then Lorkhan reasoned he could handle a few personal misgivings.
A few weeks later he was in the Dodekatheon.
Before Olympia had burned, before the Dropsite massacre, before any of this had come to pass, the IV Legion had had the unusual pleasure of receiving a visitor. It was rare that any sane man or Astartes chose to spend time with the grim and humourless Iron Warriors, yet this visitor-a warrior of Lorgar's Chaplains-had come to walk amongst Olympia's finest. Many honeyed words had escaped the viper's lips; all of them were seemingly ignored by the Iron Warriors, although looking back Lorkhan wondered just how large a seed of treachery had been planted within them at that meeting. Yet one thing the Word Bearer had said met with particular derision. The holy man had spoken of the quiet orders present in various other Legions-the warrior lodges of the Sons of Horus and Death Guard, or Brotherhood of the Phoenix of the Emperor's Children for example-and had sought to introduce such a fraternity within the IV. The Iron Warriors had laughed in his face for his troubles. They had always possessed their own brotherhood, and no black armoured fanatic would change that.
The Dodekatheon was no secret, for the Iron Warriors had very little to discuss that required secrecy. Beneath the soft glow of flaming torches were political alliances between companies brokered and plotted, tactics discussed and new designs for fortress or war machine unveiled. Lorkhan had never had the opportunity to attend a meeting before-whilst feasibly open to any warrior in truth only those Iron Warriors of rank were to be found within the Dodekatheon. After attaining said rank, Lorkhan had simply never bothered.
There was little of interest within the walls of the secret place that held interest for Lorkhan. A few Warsmiths had come to try and meld the newly invested commander to their will, but once Lorkhan's lack of aptitude or inclination of subtlety and intrigue, and predisposition towards idle chatter became apparent, he was more or less ignored by those gathered. He'd shared a mostly amiable conversation with 'Honourable' Soulaka-an Apothecary who was the unofficial head of the Dodekatheon-where choice opponents from within the other, Throne-loyal Legions were discussed. But otherwise, the only other feature of note the gathering possessed did not grasp at Lorkhan's attentions. Using holographics, recorded video data and simple wooden blocks Warsmiths refought battles from the past over various tables, ostensibly to evolve their tactics and contingencies and be better prepared for future battles. A noble endeavour, but with the huddles of other Warsmiths gathered around shouting and hollering like children, the whole affair the appearance more of a bull ring than serious strategic exercise. Coupled with his belief that the only experience worth having was in the field, Lorkhan was less than inclined to join in the activity.
Besides, playing with toy soldiers was a bit weird.
Yet today had witnessed something special, something the Dodekatheon had not witnessed for a long time. Perturabo himself had come, and was promptly challenged by the most upstart member of the Trident-his cadre of three senior Warsmiths that served as advisors. The board recreating the Emperor's Palace was a permanent fixture within the Dodekatheon, and it was there the Primarch and Legionnaires had done battle. In both attack and defence, even with all three of this Triarchs united against him, Perturabo had won effortlessly. The engagements were over almost before they began. No simulation was perfect of course, Lorkhan knew that, but watching the impetuous and aggressive Kroeger be put in his place was certainly gratifying. More than that, it reaffirmed-had there been any doubt in his mind-that the Primarch knew what he was doing. It reaffirmed that they could win.
Yet now the battle was done, things had grown stale. Perturabo had left and in his wake conversation dropped to a low ebb of Warsmiths seated around several tables. It bored Lorkhan, and before long he turned to leave, slipping out of the Dodekatheon down a side corridor. The walls of the Iron Blood were unpainted and unadorned, and in their frosty confines Lorkhan crossed only the occasional mortal serf. He paid little attention to the maze of corridors he was being led down, instead planning in his head how to return to his own ship. He almost made it to the hangar when he registered the deep, heavy footfalls behind him, and had stopped before his pursuer called out.
"Warsmith Lorkhan."
The voice was iron and stone and steel distilled into one sound. Lorkhan felt a coldness unlike any he was used to seep into him as he realised that such a powerful tone could only have come from one being. He straightened and turned slowly on his heel, taking care to keep his gaze focused downwards.
The Lord of Iron stood before him, hands resting on the top of Forgebreaker's head and an unreadable expression plastered on his face. He was flanked by two of the Iron Circle; Perturabo's colossal robotic bodyguard outfitted with Thunder Hammer, Storm Shield and Assault Cannon. Lorkhan had seen the robots in action and they were fearsome indeed, yet he still had trouble believing the living god before him needed a bodyguard. Without thinking Lorkhan found himself dropping to a knee, a murmur of "my lord" barely audible.
Perturabo watched him for a moment, face unchanging. When he spoke, his voice was as monotonous as ever.
"Is it to your liking?"
Lorkhan blinked in confusion, without thinking turning to look at his Father in puzzlement. Perturabo held his gaze.
"The floor." The Primarch continued. "Is it to your liking? You seem to be examining it quite thoroughly."
Lorkhan felt his face flushing as he rose to his feet. The Primarch rarely jested, and being the target of one made the Warsmith feel even smaller than he already did. The fact he didn't know whether Perturabo was genuinely displeased made it worse.
"I made sure to speak with you before you returned to your ship." Perturabo said, cutting Lorkhan off before he could speak. "You are not to accompany the rest of the Legion."
Disappointment and confusion flared within Lorkhan, yet he was still an Iron Warrior and master of his own emotions. Fighting through his awe, the Warsmith forced a smile to his face.
"I realise I may offend Fulgrim's sense of style now, my Lord, but I've heard I clean up nicely."
An even icier look settled in the Primarch's eyes, as Lorkhan cursed his poor attempt at a joke. Perturabo removed a hand from the top of Forgebreaker and let it rest at his side, before going on.
"Your predecessor, Kargarra, often acted as an independent agent for me. You shall perform the same tasking. Break off from the fleet before we enter the War; I shall deal with Fulgrim if he asks. Make course for Ultramar, and follow our forces there. My brother Horus would not condone or appreciate my interference there, and I trust him to command us, but I must take precautions to ensure my more...unpredictable brothers remain true to the causes' ideals as far as they can be. Report back to me whenever is appropriate."
The matter was decided, and Lorkhan knew it was pointless to argue. Ultramar would be a hard target no doubt, but if the Word Bearers and World Eaters had been let off the chain as much as the Primarch suspected then perhaps it was not impossible.
"It will be done, my Lord." Lorkhan said finally. Perturabo's response was a curt nod, before turning and marching down away into the darkness down the corridor. The Iron Circle followed just behind, each of their steps noisy and crushing. Lorkhan watched the three go, working up courage within himself.
"My Lord!" He called out. The three giants before him stopped, but did not turn. Lorkhan felt the courage he had fostered evaporate, and for a moment was unmanned.
"Yes?" The threat in Perturabo's voice was evident, and Lorkhan blanched as he hurried himself a long.
"I don't mean to be impertinent Lord, but it's just...I think...Why me?"
Silence reigned for a moment, as Lorkhan tensed himself to receive what would surely be the inevitable blow. It never came. Instead, Perturabo turned so as to give the Warsmith a sidelong glance.
"Three reasons." He said, slowly and patiently. "Firstly, I need someone to keep watch on my brothers, and you're not exactly popular. No one will question where you ae. Secondly, the Olympian Sun is one of the fastest ships in our fleet, and I don't want all our ships in one place alongside the Emperor's Children. When...if they betray us, I need Iron Warriors out there who can take word to the Warmaster. And thirdly." He stopped, now turning to stare Lorkhan fully in the face. "Because you are my son."
When Lorkhan did not reply, Perturabo turned and left. His footfalls could be heard even when he'd disappeared into the dark, before eventually being snuffed out and leaving the Warsmith alone aboard the Iron Blood's creaking decks. Lorkhan was glad of the dark in this instance. He was glad he wore his helmet.
This one time, he didn't want his brothers to see his face.
"And that was the only time you ever met your Father?" Celestia asked, her disbelief evident. Lorkhan still stared at the stone floor.
"No." He said at length. "I met him twice more after that." He didn't elaborate, and Celestia knew better than to pry.
"You said your meeting place was called the Dodekatheon." She interjected, hastily changing the subject. "Why was that?"
"The Dodekatheon was named after the twelve tyrants who had ruled the cities of our homeworld, Olympia." Lorkhan explained, relaying the history lessons he'd learned by rote without thinking. "But the order existed even before the Primarch walked amongst us."
"Tyrants?" Celestia repeated, as confused as before. She seemed to ponder this for a moment, before her face mellowed a fraction. "You were born in tyranny." Lorkhan's sidelong glance told her exactly what he thought of her pity. He tapped the ground with the butt of his axe as he turned and stalked out the room.
"If your little menagerie stops shitting rainbows and bleeding candyfloss for long enough to think of another way to get us home, then contact me." He called over his shoulder, not looking back. "I'm going to be with my brothers."
Applebloom fought down a groan of boredom as Ms Cheerilee's voice swam over her. Normally the farm pony made an effort to listen in class, but the sun was particularly fierce today and she doubted that even her favourite teacher could make the life cycle of the common Possum interesting. Squinting groggily in a last ditch effort to keep her eyes open, Applebloom gave a distracted look around the room.
From the looks of things, her fellow Crusaders were about as enthralled as she was. Sweetie Belle rested her chin on a hoof and was scribbling nonsensical patterns on her note-paper, whereas at the back Scootaloo had gone to sleep proper. Even Twist, normally so attentive, seemed to be finding the going difficult.
"Okay class, now I have a special treat for you!"
Applebloom's ears perked up as the words 'special treat' flowed into them, eyes widening as she leaned in as closely as her desk would allow. It seemed to have the same effect on her friends; Sweetie Belle squeaked excitedly and straightened, whilst Scootaloo noisily snorted herself into wakefulness.
"A thurprithe?" Twist asked, with excited trepidation. "What kind oth thurprithe?" Cheerilee beamed at her, before addressing the whole class again.
"I'm glad you asked, Twist. To make our biology lessons a bit more fun, we're going to be doing a group project!"
An eager buzz of conversation descended over the classroom at those last two words. Applebloom grinned from ear to ear, looking at Sweetie Belle and then back to Scootaloo. Group projects were always a great chance to get the Crusaders together during school hours. If they actually got the project done as well, so much the better.
"However."
The smile froze on Applebloom's face.
"Since everyone tends to work with the same partners, I thought it might be interesting this time to mix things up and choose out of a hat." Cheerilee said, still all smiles. Before Applebloom could respond she had produced just such a hat, crammed full of slips of paper, and placed it on her desk. Reaching in with a hoof the teacher selected the first name, then the second.
"Snips and Snails...okay, then."
A jubilant cry went up from both colts as they slapped their hooves together. Applebloom's whole body was rigid, eyes wide.
"Featherweight and Starry Sky."
"Morning Blossom and Berry Pinch."
"Twist and Archer."
"Scootaloo and Dinky Doo."
"Applebloom and Diamond Tiara."
"WHAT?!" |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Champion Zuko vs the World | She hid her head under her blanket and squeaked, but it didn't make it all go away.
The tiniest beam of moonlight shone in through a slit in the metal-clad walls that the Iron Warriors had erected around Fluttershy's cottage, illuminating some of the folds that had formed in the shoddy rug. Fluttershy pulled it closer over her freezing body and tossed this way and that, trying desperately to get comfortable. It was no use; her original, luxuriously soft bed had been torn to shreds when the aliens had first arrived, and the replacement they'd installed was nothing more than a slab of cold iron. She'd pleaded with Lorkhan numerous times to just put it all back as it was, but after the incident with her mail box the Warsmith had been even more sullen, withdrawn and irritable than usual on the rare occasion she'd approached him. He scared her. Well, Fluttershy admitted that most things scared her, but the Iron Warriors really scared her. She wished that one of her assertive friends like Rarity, or Rainbow Dash had been there. They'd have got those bullies to listen.
The Pegasus sat up, casting her covers to the floor with uncharacteristic sloppiness and pulling herself to the end of the 'bed'. She rubbed the end of her tired eyes with her hooves, resigned to the fact she wasn't getting any sleep tonight. With a weary sigh Fluttershy stood up and began to walk through her almost pitch-black cottage towards the stairway. Every impact of her hoof on the hard iron floor sent an ominous clang around the small building. It echoed off the walls and seemed to come from everywhere at once, causing the shy yellow pony to squeak again involuntarily. The echo melded with the other horrible sounds coming from all around: The snapping of automated turrets rotating on their base in patrol arcs, the incessant whirr and stamp of pistons and generators that the Iron Warriors had built into the walls of her house for reasons they wouldn't explain to her, and the constant grind of the water wheel outside that somehow provided power to the evil thing her home had become.
They'd actually redirected a whole stream just to get that water wheel to work. If Fluttershy hadn't seen it herself, she wouldn't believe it possible, even from such giants.
Cloudsdale was easily the most military of all Equestria's main residences, but it was definitely a city. The only other castle that was actually used that Fluttershy had been in was Canterlot castle, and that was always such a lovely place. The Pegasus had decided however, that she didn't like fortresses like the Iron Warriors built. They were dark, scary and...well, sort of smelly. On the other hoof, it was nice of them to rebuild a house for her at all...no. Think like Rainbow Dash. If she didn't like this then she'd go and tell them, and Fluttershy would do the same. Only, maybe a bit less angrily. After all, the Iron Warriors were still living creatures and she didn't really want to hurt their feelings, especially after they'd put so much effort into this for her.
Fluttershy's train of thought was abruptly interrupted as she tripped on something solid and square on the floor. She faceplanted, whimpering and covering her now bleeding nose with a hoof. Wiping away some of the red liquid, the Pegasus squinted, trying to spot what she'd tripped over. The dark meant it was in vain, but Fluttershy could guess that it was one of the power transformers that were wired up to the colossal 'battlecannon' that had been mounted on her roof. Of everything the Iron Warriors had built, that was still the one that scared Fluttershy the most. The battlecannon loomed over everything, the gargoyle-shaped maw of the gun pointed squarely at Ponyville. She'd begged them to alter its position and not aim it at her friends, but for their part the Space Marines had ignored her. When Lorkhan finally did acknowledge her existence it was only to tell Fluttershy to do it herself. The array of flashing lights and complicated commands had made that easier said than done, and eventually she'd just given up and cried herself to sleep.
With her senses heightened by the dark, Fluttershy thought she heard the squeak of a mouse or even rat. Excitement built inside her as she turned, calling out "hello?" into the darkness. The skittish pony waited for what seemed like hours, hoping against hope that there'd be a response. Her ears drooped and a sad frown pulled at her face when it was clear one was not forthcoming. All her animal friends had quickly vacated her house once it had been rebuilt, and even the birds and larger creatures that lived in the surrounding garden now gave her a wide berth. In order to do her job of tending to them she now had to go to them herself, but whereas before Fluttershy had been able to communicate with them well, now they avoided her and were at best eternally suspicious. It was as if the fortress air clung to her wherever she went, driving off everything natural. The only real memories of her old life that she'd been allowed to keep were a few photographs the Marines had managed to find and not step on, and Angel Bunny's basket. It sad made and ready in the corner, as if any moment it would be filled by its fluffy white owner. Fluttershy tried not to think about it; no need to upset herself even further.
Eventually, she reached the imposing double door that had been built in place of the old cottage one. Wearily, began to key in the sequence they'd shown her on the glowing control panel by its side. It had taken her a while to memorise, and Lorkhan had warned her to make she got it right-the wrong button could raise the drawbridge, fire the turrets and other hidden weaponry installed on the outside walls, trigger the failsafe self-destruct option or any number of other awful things. Finally finishing the code with a practiced precision, Fluttershy stood back and turned towards the doors as they swung open with an ominous growl. She walked out onto the wooden drawbridge that crossed the flowing river surrounding her fortress. She spared a glance at the doors as they came to a halt; for all that they espoused their practical nature, the Iron Warriors had seemingly been unable to resist a bit of vanity and had cared the metal skull that seemed to be their symbol on the two doors. Fluttershy thought it was a horrible, ugly thing, but there was no way she could remove the doors on her own.
The distant sound of laughter and music made her ears prick up, and the Pegasus looked in the direction from whence it came. Ponyville stood just before the horizon, vibrant and bright. The thought of her fellow Equestrians celebrating and getting on with life even in the face of such adversity brought a smile to Fluttershy's face, even as the cool wind blew folds of pink hair across one eye. Fluttershy had never been particularly sociable, but all of a sudden the desire to go and join her friends nearly overwhelmed her. Ever since she'd moved back to this, it was only scarcely she received a visitor. Twilight and Spike had come at first quite often, when the Unicorn took a break from her research that is, but slowly their visits had grown less frequent. Pinkie Pie seemed to refuse to go near the fortress at all, although she clearly was concerned for Fluttershy's wellbeing. She still met with Rarity for their weekly spa date, but it was always...awkward. Even Rainbow Dash had stopped coming...
A cold blast of air bit into the back of her head, and Fluttershy turned to face the source. The night made seeing far difficult, but she knew that perhaps a few hundred metres away sat the hulking remains of the great ship the Iron Warriors had crashed in. It was covered in the dark, the spiked edges and great chains forming menacing silhouettes. Fluttershy shuddered; they were in their right now, she knew, right on her doorstep. The Iron Warriors could be watching her right now, and probably shoot her dead from that distance as well. The rational part of Fluttershy's mind told her that they would all be sleeping; somehow, though, Fluttershy doubted that they needed to sleep.
She sighed deeply, staring at the ground. The melancholy lasted for but a moment, before-to her surprise-what could almost have been determination settled in her gut. Fluttershy grimaced and tried to put on her best angry face as she willed herself to be brave. Enough was enough. Somebody had to go and tell the Iron Warriors that they couldn't just go around Equestria being mean to everypony. In the morning she'd gather up some of her friends, march right up the Marines and tell them that herself. The more Fluttershy thought about it, the more quietly confident she became that she could do it, drawing on what she remembered of Iron Will's assertiveness training. Yeah...after all, they weren't allowed to hurt anyone, right? What's the worst they could do? Fluttershy rose to her full height-it still wasn't much, but a little more imposing than the common nervous slouch-and willed herself to look brave and determined. She would go and give that horrible Lorkhan a piece of her mind, and if he didn't like it, then that was too bad.
As if on cue a bolt of lightning crashed through the sky, briefly illuminating all around Fluttershy. In the faux light the wreckage of the Iron Warrior ship almost seemed to come alive, the corrupted and spiked metal casting its shadow far and wide. Fluttershy yelped in panic, jumping high into the air and turning to dash back to her 'house'. She bolted inside still squealing, hitting the quick-close switch on her way in. The great iron doors began to shut behind her as she dived shaking beneath the blanket, eventually closing with a rumble. The carved iron skull stared out as emotionlessly and impassively as ever, the eight pointed star behind it dripping from every spike with the rain that was now beginning to fall.
On the whole, Fluttershy reasoned, the Iron Warriors would probably be busy tomorrow morning. No point in disturbing them.
Best leave it for another day.
Time, Zuko mused as one of his more philosophical moods began to overtake him, was a peculiar thing. It was simultaneously natural and arbitrary; something that was present all around them in the universe yet only defined when you really stopped to think about it. Even in the Warp, where all the regular rules of creation were opt-in policies that no one paid attention to and time could flow up and down as well as backwards and forwards, that strange linear progression had always been there no matter how warped it was along the way. Mankind was as far as he could tell, a species obsessed with time; they planned missions to specific times, feared being here or there at certain times, and religiously stuck to the dictate of two hands on a clock. Yet, time must have existed before humans first crawled from the oceans in order for them to reach the stage they were now, even when no-one was around to monitor it on a clock. Did that time really still exist? And why were such singular measurements of time-the hour, the minute, the second-spread all throughout the Imperium even on worlds which had a very different solar orbit to Terra's. Even here, the Ponies stuck to a clearly defined set of times, but how did they measure it beside that clock? How did they know their time was the right time?
Orks very seldom built fortresses proper, instead trusting to ramshackle Space Hulks and shanty towns. Thus, the Iron Warriors had had comparatively little contact with that particular Xenos race during the Great Crusade. The aftermath of the heresy and the genesis of the roaming warband meant conflict had become more and more frequent, but not to the same level of many of the other Legions. Zuko knew little of their culture, bar the obvious fact that it was centred entirely around violence, but from what he had observed over the centuries the Greenskins had no definitive measurement of time, nor did they seem to care. It baffled and intrigued the Iron Warrior-there was no sense of timing, no stress from rush, a (albeit primitive) society freed from the constraints of counting hours. It was part of what made them so unpredictable, he reasoned, but Zuko couldn't deny a small part of him was intrigued as to whether humanity could survive for a week were all the clocks in the galaxy to suddenly stop working.
The chronometers built into his power armour had been scrambled in the crash, as had most of those belonging to his brothers, so bar the clock tower in the Xenos settlement he had no way of accurately knowing the time. But when Mordecai came to see him in his chamber within the Olympian Sun's wreckage, Zuko estimated it was about half past ten.
The Aspiring Champion heard the automatic door slide open, and didn't need to look around to know who had entered his room. Zuko remained hunched over his desk, face hidden from his brother. His horned helmet sat beside him on the desk; it faced Mordecai, glaring threateningly at the Sorcerer. The red eye lenses seemed to glow even when the helmet was not powered up.
"Am I in trouble?" The Aspiring Champion said bluntly. Mordecai's response was to laugh.
"Perish the thought."
Zuko was motionless for a moment, before taking a long drag on the cigar he held between the fingers of his right hand. Dropping the spent stick of tobacco to the ground, and ensuring his face was hidden in darkness, he lifted his helmet on the table and snapped it back into place. The hiss of joining seals filled the small room. When it was connected and energised he finally turned and looked at Mordecai , who returned the gaze patiently. Without thinking Zuko ground the still-smouldering cigar embers under his boot.
"Then what in the name of the Primarch are you doing here?"
Smoking had been a habit Zuko had picked up not long after the thirteenth company had first arrived on the Daemon world that was to become their home, Medrengard. The Legion's flight through the Warp and exposure to the full power of Chaos, not to mention the terrible things they'd unleashed at the Iron Cage, had seemingly wrought one change or another on all of them. Mordecai was constantly polite and affable, Vortun had never lost his accent even after becoming an Obliterator, Lorkhan could be a little...slow, and Rorke shook whenever he got angry. Zuko however had begun to order the more skilled slaves to produce Astartes-sized cigars for him. Lho-sticks taken from the body of dead Imperial navy personnel had proven to be too delicate for him to use, and not nearly potent enough; whilst he knew full well that his Marine physiology neutralised the tobacco and nicotine, as well as any other chemicals, from what he smoked he found that his occasional cravings still persisted. It was a habit he'd managed to suppress for a long time, recognising it as the mental corruption that it was, but miraculously a set of cigars had survived the crash. It seemed almost a shame to waste them.
Mordecai let him get settled before started talking.
"It is a pleasant day. The Warsmith is currently amusing himself in some manner within the depths of our ship, although I admit I have no compulsion to discover how. Rorke, too, seems to insist on being dreadfully antisocial. Vortun is...well, I trust I need not explain some of the difficulties the blessed ones face here in terms of not startling the Pony-folk. Therefore, you remain; come, walk with me."
Now it was Zuko's turn to laugh. The sound that emanated from his vox grille was harsh and devoid of humour. As it slowly became clear that Mordecai wasn't joking Zuko fell quiet, staring at the Warlock incredulously.
"You want me to come on a walk with you? Do you have any idea how shit-stupid that sounds? I had more than enough of you in that fucking forest."
"I rather enjoyed our bonding experiences within the Everfree."
"Our 'bonding experience' was getting a zebra crushed and accidentally burning half the bloody place down, before I lost my legs to a Salamander." Zuko said, tapping the armour that covered his bionics for emphasis. "We're brothers, not friends."
"Why must the two be mutually exclusive?" Mordecai countered. "But in any case I am afraid your friendship, though desirable, is not required. I merely need someone to accompany me."
Zuko cocked his head sideward, studying the Psyker intently. "Why?"
"I'm afraid I would not be at liberty to say, my dear boy."
"Don't call me that." Zuko grumbled involuntarily, still staring at Mordecai. He stared back. The silence lasted for several long, drawn out moments. When it became clear that Mordecai was not leaving without him, Zuko gave an exasperated sigh.
"Fine, fine. Let's just get this over with."
Without saying another word, Mordecai turned and marched from Zuko's tiny chamber. The Aspiring Champion watched him go, before raising from his chair slowly and sighing again. He took off after the sorcerer. The two weaved their way through the Sun's labyrinthine corridors, their helmet visors allowing them to penetrate the darkness that clouded the wreck's corridors. Only occasionally did they come across other life-any mortal slaves either prostrated themselves immediately or moved out the way to avoid being crushed underfoot, whilst the sole Iron Warrior merely nodded.
Eventually, they left the hulk and emerged into the bright Equestrian sunlight. It always struck Zuko how colourful everything was here-the grass, for example, was greener than he'd seen anywhere else in the galaxy-whilst bird song and the gentle rustling of the trees echoed around him. The Champion was already regretting his decision to go with Mordecai. Over in the distance, the fortress that Lorkhan had built for that yellow horse whose cottage they'd destroyed could be seen. It was a good piece of engineering, he had to admit that much. He was about to say so when he realised that Mordecai had gone, moving at a brisk pace towards Ponyville. Grumbling again, Zuko set off in pursuit.
They walked in silence, arriving at the town in around five minutes. By now Zuko had grown used to his bionic legs, but they still occasionally glitched, sending him stumbling around like a drunkard. The arrival of the two Astartes seemed to suitably distress most of the Ponies who moments before had been happily shopping. They dashed for cover, either in the closest building or behind the nearest tree. Yet a fair few simply cast either a nervous or angry glare towards the Iron Warriors and continued on with their day, which Zuko supposed was an 'improvement' of sorts.
Mordecai seemed entirely more comfortable with the situation, seemingly oblivious to the Xenos' fear. He ambled through the streets quite leisurely, occasionally pulling a crumpled sheet of parchment tied around his waist and making a mark with his pen. Zuko followed a step behind, watching his brother's peculiar motions intently.
"What are you doing?" he asked eventually. Mordecai seemed to not hear him for a moment, before looking at the Aspiring Champion, His helmet's red eye lenses locked with Zuko's own.
"Oh, I am merely scribing a map of the surrounding locale." He said pleasantly, returning to his drawing.
"A...map?" Zuko asked nonplussed. Mordecai chuckled, affixing the paper to his belt whilst beckoning Zuko with a wave of the other hand.
"My word, I do believe the sun is beginning to scramble your poor tin-plated head, my dear brother." The Psyker said jovially. From behind his helmet Zuko glared, but said nothing. Averting his eyes from the Champion, Mordecai gestured all around, the sweep of his hand encompassing all of 'Ponyville' before them.
"I should, of course, be disposed to imagine that you are of particularly low spirits in regards to our current situation." Mordecai went on. "But surely one must concur that we have found ourselves upon a most agreeable world."
"For you, maybe." Zuko responded, switching to a closed vox-channel. "I've hated every moment here."
"Oh come now, brother. Surely you are not as frightfully pugnacious as Rorke that you cannot appreciate the charms of this world."
"We're Space Marines, Mordecai. We're Iron Warriors. Tell me how to build a fortress or where there's an enemy that needs to die and I'll see it done. All this...downtime, it's not right." Zuko's voice dropped to a whisper. "And more than that, we're Chaos Space Marines. We should have killed everything here the moment we arrived."
"Do not presume me to doubt the veracity of your words." Mordecai said calmly. "And I assure you that, knowing you all as intimately as I do, anxiety would rest entirely for the Xenos. And yet..."
"And yet what?" Zuko asked guardedly, coming to a halt in the middle of the road. Without thinking his hand moved to rest on the handle of his holstered plasma pistol. Mordecai looked at him searchingly.
"And yet, I believe you grow weary of our Long War."
The silence reigned for a long time. The two Iron Warriors stared at one another, neither one moving a muscle. A bird's tweet cut the air.
It was Mordecai who broke the eye contact, turning to look down a nearby sidestreet. "Ah, Ms Rarity." He said. He raised a hand in greeting to the white horse, who smiled back somewhat awkwardly and waved a hoof at him. Zuko took the opportunity to relax, leaving the pistol where it was.
"You're on first name terms with them now?" He asked with a snort.
"Quite so, brother. The gentlemare who is to be my host during tomorrow's fine-dining evening is one Ms Rarity, the owner ofCarousel Boutique, which I am informed is responsible for the production and distribution of most items of high fashion within this town.
"'Gentlemare'?" Zuko queried, not quite believing his ears. "And you're going to a tea party with them?" He knew Mordecai's hawk-like features would be creased in a smile behind his helmet.
"Civility is not a crime, old sport, not even for miscreants such as us." The Psyker looked as if he was going to continue when he stopped, straightening slightly and cocking his head to the side.
"I say, do you hear that most peculiar clamour?" he asked, cupping a gauntleted hand around where his ear would be as if that would help. Zuko rolled his eyes despairingly, but just as he was about to tell Mordecai that nothing in the galaxy could make him go on another 'bonding day' with him, something began to roll around his ears. There was a noise coming from behind a building. It was high pitched and erratic, a low background murmur ever present behind it. The sound of a snuffling nose and occasional voice crack betrayed it for what it was.
"It sounds like sobbing." Zuko said, trying his hardest to sound completely uninterested. "One of the horses is crying."
"A juvenile, by my estimation." Mordecai retorted. "but I concur." Zuko shrugged and was about to ask why it mattered, when he realised Mordecai was watching him intently.
"Oh no." He said, the feeling of dread welling up in his stomach as he put two and two together. "No. No way. Not even for the Primarch himself." Mordecai didn't answer, but another series of dry and choked sobs broke the air.
"The child isweeping profusely, my dear brother." He said at length.
Mordecai had a singular ability, Zuko decided, to be able to be hated by almost everyone who knew him and yet get them to do whatever he wanted. He never had to raise his voice, either; it was something in the way he stared at you. You knew he wouldn't back down or take no for an answer, and he was so damn friendly with everyone you told yourself 'just this once, to get him off my arse'. There was never anything sinister or threatening in his manner, but still you complied. Apprehensively, the Champion realised that maybe there was something psychic ggoing on-Mordecai said he was a Telekine above all else, but who really knew what was going on back there. He hastily erected the basic mental defences all Space Marines were taught, but the compulsion didn't die.
"For the Gods' sake, fine." He snarled turning away and beginning to move towards the sound of the noise. "But you owe me."
"Good show, old sport." Mordecai called over his shoulder. "Do come and tell me of your findings later, I am sure it will be most enlightening." Zuko was already walking away, moving around the corner of the building. The crying was growing louder by the second.
Eventually he pinpointed the source of the disturbance, and immediately groaned internally. The small bundle of yellow fur-now bedraggled in some places, from what he assumed was her own tears-had hidden itself well in the shadow of this small courtyard. Her hooves covered her eyes as she shook and sniffled in between bawling, but from what he could tell from her red hair that was now little more than an unkempt mess attached to her head she'd been hiding here for quite some time. The unmistakable pink bow had almost come out.
"Pony." Zuko called out, voice monotonous. She didn't respond as another bout of noisy weeping came on.
"Child." The Iron Warrior repeated, not willing to admit he knew her name. She still wouldn't look at him. Zuko sighed, wishing he had a cigar on him.
"Appleboom." He said, with a softness that surprised even him. That seemed to get her attention for a moment, and her head lifted slightly form the ball she curled into. Before Zuko could press her for details, however, she had buried her face in her hooves again and went back to crying. Now he groaned audibly, about to go over and find out what the hell was going on with the help of Mr Power Fist.
"Mah diary." Applebloom said suddenly in a shaky voice, catching Zuko off guard. She finally looked up at him; her eyes were bloodshot and puffy, ruined by the waterworks. "Ms Cheerilee put us in lahk, a team for a school project, and it's in two days tahm." For a moment it looked like she was going to start crying again, but with a squint of her eyes she fought the tears back. Zuko could almost admire that. "She had tah come to mah house tah get it done, but we've never lahked each other. After she'd left I had tah clean mah room, and mah diary was gone." With that the dam burst, and the little filly began to shake with blubbering once more.
For a moment, Zuko was utterly unsure of what to say. The recovery of small children's diaries didn't usually fall under IV Legion jurisdiction. "It's probably still in your room, you haven't searched thoroughly enough." He attempted after some consideration.
"No, she took it, ah just know she did!" Applebloom shouted. Her crying had made her nose run, and she wiped the excess mucus away with the back of a hoof. "She's always bein' mean tah me and tah Crusaders 'cause we ain't got our Cutie Marks yet! Oh, if she tells anyone some of the stuff in thar Ah'll be ruined, ruined! Ah'll never be able to show mah face again." She said dejectedly.
"Why don't you just ask the other two to help you get it back?" Zuko asked. "There's three of you and one of her, you could easily beat the shit out of her and get the book back if it's that important."
"Applejack says vahlence is never the answer." Applebloom said quietly. "An' Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo are too busy with their own projects, ah've hardly seen'em all week." The idea of violence not being the solution mystified Zuko, but he wracked his brain to find some way of calming the Pony down and therefore getting out of here without her raising more of a fuss.
"Reprinting classified material is inherently risky." he said. "It was not strategically sound to do so if there was a chance it could be leaked." In hindsight, he mused, it probably wasn't the best thing he could have said, as Applebloom immediately relapsed into an endless stream of sobbing.
The Astartes watched for a moment, in the hope she'd eventually pull herself together. But eventually, it became more and more apparent she wouldn't, and the Iron Warrior's limited patience snapped. With a mutter of "that's it, we're done here" he began to walk away, mainly to tell Mordecai to go and fuck himself with a chainsword if he ever tried to get Zuko to do something like this again. She began to cry louder and more intensely, but he didn't slow down, 10'000 years of warfare having hardened his heart to such things.
"It's not fayre!" Applebloom wailed, wiping her nose again. "It's lahk when we were on that stupid school paper. Ah've done all tha' work on our project, and not only ha she stole mah diary ah knows she's gonna take all tha' credit. It's just 'cause her daddy's so rich, she always takes all the credit from everypony for stuff she didn't even do!" She buried her head a third time, running her hooves through her hair in frustration.
Something occurred to Applebloom, the surprise penetrating her grief. The rhythmic sound of heavy, armoured footfalls on the ground had ceased. She looked up and around in confusion, blinking away tears.
Zuko had come to a dead stop at the exit of the small courtyard she'd secluded herself in. His back was still turned to her, and he would have been for all the world no more expressive than a statue were it not for the incessant humming that she assumed came from his armour and the slow flexing of the talons on the giant glove affixed to his left arm. He was giving her a sidelong glance over the shoulder, and although it may have been her aching eyes Applebloom swore his eye lens was a deeper shade of crimson. When he spoke his voice was low and measured, but even she felt the depthless rage coiling behind it.
"The other Legions took the credit from us, too." |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Champion Zuko vs home security systems | "Remind me again," Barbus grumbled as he crouched behind the rock. "Why we're doing this?"
"To prove a point." Zuko didn't grace his brother with a look. The Aspiring Champion was also crouched, trusting the night to conceal him. His eyes were fixed firmly on the house that lay before them, across the moonlit field. In truth calling it a 'house' was inaccurate; from what Zuko could see it was almost as opulent as the Castle, and far bigger than any of the other houses in Ponyville, standing just outside of town. 'Mansion' was perhaps more appropriate. Applebloom hadn't mentioned this Diamond Tiara was rich, but the fact she was explained some things.
"Bullshit." Barbus growled. When Zuko had dragged him out of the training cages and told him to follow him, he'd told Barbus to leave his autocannon behind. It seemed to be pissing him off. "Burning down the town hall? That'd prove a point. Putting their precious princesses' head on a spike? There's your message. This seems like a mercy mission for a little girl." He let the last point hang in the air for a moment. "A little Xenos girl."
Zuko still didn't look at him. "Have a care, Barb." He flexed the talons of his power fist in anticipation. "She's irrelevant. What matters is we re-educate anyone who does what the other Legions did to us. Now, come on." He rose slightly, starting to move forward. He stopped as a vice-like grip fastened around his wrist.
Finally Zuko turned to look at his brother. The glowing optics of their helmets held an unbroken stare. "How long have we fought together?" Barbus asked. His voice wasn't confrontational, but he didn't relent.
"Ten thousand years real-time, give or take." Zuko shrugged. It was true; Barbus was the only surviving member of Zuko's squad from the time of the Crusade, having passed through training and the initiation rites together. Sergeants and other brothers had come and gone, yet in spite of everything they'd managed to hack their way out of whatever mess they were in. After the Heresy Barbus had become the acting sergeant of one of the companies' Havoc squads, but he was never far from Zuko's side, and the Champion knew that he relied on the other Astartes more than he cared to admit. He didn't trust Barbus, no more than he trusted Mordecai, or Lorkhan, or...maybe more than Rorke. But he knew Barbus, and that's what mattered.
"How many times have I steered you wrong?"
"Very few." That was true as well.
"So if I tell you you're acting like a damn Ultramarine running around being all compassionate, and not like an Iron Warrior?" Barbus pressed. Zuko didn't answer, and for a moment silence reigned. Eventually the Aspiring Champion prised the other Marine's arm off his own with the power fist.
"I'm not going soft, Barbus." Zuko said as gently as he could manage. "Suggest I am again and I'll put out your other eye." Barbus chortled in spite of himself. "But we need to do this. Not for the Pony, for us."
Barbus still looked doubtful for a moment, but before long he sighed, shaking his head. "The things I do for this Legion." He mumbled, patting the combat knife affixed to his belt.
"Iron Within." Zuko began.
"Iron Without." Barbus finished. They clasped each other's wrists again, but this time in a gesture of solidarity and not restraint. Without another word the two super-soldiers took a=off across the open plain towards the giant mansion. They moved fast and low, relying on the shadows to hide the worst of their shining silver armour, although the lack of light in any window gave Zuko the hope that all the Xenos were asleep. In a few short minutes, and never accelerating beyond a crouching jog, the two Iron Warriors had made it to the great railings that surrounded the manner grounds.
Peering through the bars, Zuko took in the scene before him. The grounds were extensive, the area covered the size of multiples of the cottage Zuko, Barbus and Basikor had torn down. Water trickled soothingly from the mouths of stone fishes and Ponies into waiting fountains, whilst endless flowerbeds bloomed in an eclectic variety of colours. Zuko scanned the grounds for any sign of a security force, but there was none to be found; the Ponies probably thought they had no need of such a force, beyond the Royal Guards.
With a thought Zuko brought his power fist to life, electrical energy dancing along the talons. Reaching out, he grabbed hold of one of the iron bars. The weapons power field made short work of the metal, the fist almost passing straight through. As carelessly as one would turn the pages of a book Zuko pulled outwards, tearing the railing before him apart and opening a hole into the garden. Before long, the gap was just big enough for a Space Marine to fit through. Zuko ducked under, taking care to ensure the spike affixed to his power pack that carried the Imperial Fist helm as a trophy didn't get caught, and took a few cautious steps into the mansion's grounds. Barbus took a moment longer; two horns curved from the side of his helmet, and he had to turn sideward to fit through the gap. The Iron Warriors moved forward slowly and guardedly, glowing red eyes fixed firmly on one of the back doors.
Zuko spun and drew his plasma pistol without thinking as Barbus hissed a curse behind him. When the Champion saw what had happened however, he holstered the gun and gave a disapproving snarl. Barbus had crushed one of the smaller water features underfoot, the stone fragments grinding against one another as he moved his foot away.
"Well what did you expect?" he snapped back as he realised Zuko was glowering at him. "I'm Olympian by all the Gods, not Raven Guard. I'm used to going through things." It was true that Iron Warriors weren't particularly taught much in the way of stealth, and with its size and constant buzzing power armour was difficult to hide, but Zuko was taking no chances.
"Don't be an arse, Barbus, what if they'd heard us?"
"So what?" the other Marine asked. Zuko didn't dignify that with an answer; partly because when he thought about it he didn't have one. He focused back on what he was doing, drawing closer to the back door. As they reached it, taking up traditional breaching [position either side, Barbus drew his combat knife. Crouching down before the door, he inserted the blade-sharp end downwards-into the gap opposite the hinges. With one pull downwards the blade had severed the lock clean in half thanks to the Marine's prodigious strength. Sheathing the blade, Barbus stepped back and pulled on the door handle. It opened almost without a sound.
It was a squeeze to fit through the doorframe, but the Iron Warriors arrived into a small, black room. With the dark-piercing optics built into their helmets, they could see that it was in fact a small kitchen. One of many, Zuko had no doubt. Cutlery hung from racks affixed to the ceiling, whilst various bubbling pots of soup stood gently heating on the hobs ready for the morning. Without exchanging words they moved on through the door, passing through pantries, drawing rooms and even a room with a swimming pool. The ground floor was a labyrinth, and even with his eidetic memory Zuko was agitated that they could get lost. More than that, he was certain they would be discovered. At any moment he expected to turn around and be confronted with some cook or menial servant. He didn't actually have a back-up plan for such an occurrence-it wasn't like they could hurt him, but this whole affair would run a lot smoother if he wasn't caught. Yet no Xenos came, and after the seventh set of expensive looking chambers both Zuko and Barbus had begun to relax.
Eventually they reached what must have been the foyer. Before them stood a grand, white marble staircase, almost comically oversized when the Ponies' size was considered. The equally colossal main doors stood opposite the stairs. The decoration the pair of Iron Warriors had observed throughout the house so far was pretty typical of a stately home; red rugs, expensive oak furnishings, photos and old portraits hung from every wall. Barbus approached one now; within the gilded frame was a photo of a brown, tie-wearing stallion, smiling dignifiedly in the centre of a group of other officious-looking Ponies.
"Filthy Rich," The Iron Warrior read. "And the board of executives of Rich's Barnyard Bargains." He looked at Zuko, seemingly amused. "Who the hell names their child 'Filthy'?"
"Probably the same ones who come up with 'Sweetie Belle', 'Rainbow Dash' or 'Shining Armour'." Zuko deadpanned. He walked forwards, standing alongside Barbus and examining the picture. The brown Xenos was the same as the one he'd seen in numerous photographs in the rooms they'd come through alongside a small pink, crowned girl-child who he assumed was Diamond Tiara. Curiously, Zuko hadn't spotted a mother in any of the pictures he'd taken a cursory glance at. Curiosity sated, the pair began to walk up the steps. They tried to move as quietly as possible, taking multiple stairs at a time, but the stone mixed with their ceramite meant that every footfall echoed around the near-empty hall.
When they reached the top of the staircase, they were confronted with a long corridor stretching from left to right. Barbus looked at Zuko, the question unsaid. The Champion considered it for a moment.
"Left." He decided upon. They moved even slower than before now, the creak of every step the sound of an explosion in Zuko's ears. His power armour had saved him more times than he could possibly count, but right now he cursed its bulk. The corridor extended further and further, and although he knew it was an idiotic suggestion Zuko could have sworn the eyes on the paintings that lined the walls were watching him. Barbus' own eyes were scanning every door they passed, searching for some sign that one belonged to their quarry.
"I say, what the dickens are you doi-"
Zuko moved the moment he heard the voice, pirouetting and lashing out with the back of his power fist. It caught the Pony across the face, cutting off whatever it had been saying abruptly. He felt the neck snap almost clean in half, the hard bone of the skull dissolving to nothing under the force of his blow. The body dropped limply to the ground, one leg still twitching. Staring at the body for a moment, Zuko made the effort to control his breathing, before swearing continuously as quietly as he could.
Barbus moved over, also staring at the body. Unable to suppress a chuckle, he poked the corpse with the toe of his boot. The Xenos' head had been practically pulped to nothing by the force of Zuko's blow, and they were lucky the red carpets hid the blood. The Pony had been some kind of butler, clad in a tuxedo specially designed for quadrupeds.
"You're developing a bad habit of accidentally killing these things, brother." Barbus whispered. Zuko was in no mood for jokes, his body taut and prepared for them to be found at any moment. Miraculously, no-one came. Exhaling some of his tension, Zuko groaned internally as he considered the implications of what he'd done.
"Well that's excellent." He moaned. "Even if we get out of her without getting caught, the moment the Ponies find the body they'll think it was us-"
"-Which it was." Barbus pointed out. The two Marines were quiet for a moment, minds racing in an attempt to solve the problem. Just when Zuko was about to order the retreat, Barbus crouched down and slung the body over his shoulder. "Trust me." He whispered chirpily, and before Zuko could protest he'd disappeared down the corridor. The sound of his feet hitting the floor echoed all around.
Zuko had infiltrated enemy bases, charged across no-man's land in thousands of sieges, and fought at the Walls of Terra, but the twenty minutes that Barbus was gone were for some reason some of the tensest of his life. He was as still as a statue, only moving to rub some of the excess blood into the carpet. Eventually Barbus scampered back down the corridor, noticeably sans a corpse.
"What did you bloody do?!" Zuko hissed. Barbus responded by clapping a hand on Zuko's pauldron, and when he spoke his voice was more genuine than the Champion had heard in a long time.
"Trust me, it's not going to get found."
Zuko watched his brother for a moment, wanting to ask more. When it was clear that Barbus wasn't going to be drawn into elaborating, Zuko relaxed his shoulders in resignation, hoping that Barbus hadn't finally decided to turn on him. The cigar that was slotted into a pouch on his belt suddenly felt very heavy, and it was only through will that Zuko was able to resist lighting it.
They pressed on, taking care to be even quieter from then on. From where they'd come to a stop it didn't take the Iron Warriors long to come to a door with a silver crown daintily painted on. Wooden blocks spelling out 'Diamond Tiara's room' were hung off it, and the pink doorframe extinguished any lingering doubt in Zuko's mind that this was the room they were after. He reached out with his 'regular' gauntlet, clutching the handle. It felt so small and fragile in his palm. Sharing a nod with Barbus, Zuko pulled down on the handle, pushed the door open, and crept into the dark room. ***
The taste of metal brought Diamond Tiara rocketing out of her dreams and back to the real world. Something sharp rested at her throat, and its bite was steel and cold.
She squirmed frantically in panic, attempting to move and get free. It was no use; the hand that had clamped over her mouth stifled her screams and prevented her escape. Held on her back in the middle of her four-poster bed, Diamond Tiara desperately looked around the pitch dark room in an attempt to find out what was going on. All she could see was the pair of red eyes glaring down at her.
"Scream, and you're dead." A deep gravelly voice whispered. It seemed to come through some kind of speaker, the amplification serving only to make it even more intimidating. Diamond Tiara felt tears stinging the corner of her eyes, but nodded weakly. The monster's red eyes moved up and down, as if it was nodding, and the hand was removed from her mouth-although the knife was still at her throat. For a moment Tiara considered screaming for her father, the butler, anyone. Raw fear made her comply with the creature's will.
The thing holding her moved out of view, and for a moment the filly was staring at a black room Then, the sound of a striking match filled the air, joined a moment later by the light from a flame. The flame moved to light something else, before being shaken out. Whatever was now holding the flaming item--it looked like a cigar, like Father sometimes had-raised it high into the air and inhaled. In the flame's flickering light Diamond Tiara saw the outline of a head, the curve of an armour plate, although she couldn't make out any details. The creature exhaled, a puff of smoke barely visible. Tapping a few smouldering embers from the end of the cigar out onto her floor, the creature walked forward, and Tiara noticed despite her terror that it seemed to be taking care to move quietly. As it walked it seemed to snap something that been resting atop its head down into place; something hissed, and two more the evil red eyes Diamond Tiara had seen a moment before came into being. The monster moved towards where she was held, getting even closer to her face than the first had. It kneeled, so the burning red eyes were scant centimetres from her own.
"We have..." it said, almost apologetically. "A problem." He twirled the cigar idly between his fingers, not actually making an effort to smoke it. Diamond Tiara couldn't help her brow creasing in confusion.
"A...problem? But I don't even know you!" she insisted. The two creatures shared a glance, before the one who was speaking fixed her with a stare again.
"It's come to our attention that you're an individual who thrives on the achievements of others." It said. The tone of the voice had shifted now, to an icy calm with clear threat running underneath. "That is unfortunate for you." As he spoke, the one holding the knife twisted it so the tip of the blade just punctured her flesh. Red, coppery liquid began to trickle out, and now the tears flowed in force. The one with the cigar watched her discomfort for a moment, seemingly neither condoning nor enjoying it. Eventually he dropped the tobacco stick, reached to his waist and produced something with coils that glowed a dull red.
"Do you know what a plasma pistol does, little one?" he asked. Tiara shook her head.
"They were developed just before the Dark Age of technology, when mankind had a better grasp of the technology he commanded." The monster explained. "the coils here react to fire a bolt akin to the centre of a star. Oh very dangerous of course, and the damage they can do to the wielder if the cooling apparatus is not maintained is considerable, but what they leave of what they hit is...well, best your young ears don't hear it."
Diamond Tiara didn't understand anything he'd just said, but slowly understanding was beginning to dawn. "You...you're the Iron Warriors." She said breathlessly. "You're like, those guys who crashed in that spaceship."
"You learn fast." The lead Iron Warrior agreed. Before Diamond Tiara could ask any more questions, he rested the muzzle of the gun in the centre of her forehead. She squeaked and cried even more, but still didn't shout out. When the alien spoke he practically spat the words.
"Listen to me, you little shit. I know you have a presentation at your school tomorrow, and I know you've done none of the work for it. If I hear anything about you getting all the glory...even the slightest whisper...I swear to the Gods I will show you exactly why we call Vortun an 'Obliterator', do you understand me you miserable piece of Xenos filth?"
She nodded as furiously as her neck would allow, somehow finding herself unable to look away from the staring eyes. After studying her for a moment longer, the Iron Warrior stood, still looking down at her.
"Actually, just take all of tomorrow off." He suggested in a voice that made it clear it wasn't a suggestion. "And it goes without saying that this never happened." The knife was removed rom her throat and she breathed out heavily, rubbing where it'd pierced the skin. The Iron Warrior that had been speaking to her turned around, but instead of leaving he paced over to one of her side tables. Diamond Tiara watched in confusion as he rummaged through her stuff, casting aside expensive and fabulous jewellery or perfumes like they were nothing. Finally, he seemed to find what he was looking for-a book. From what she could see as her eyes grew used to the dark, it was tiny in his hands. She didn't know what it was or what he wanted with it, but if it got him out the alien was welcome to it.
Yet the moment the pair's backs were turned, the filly's confidence began to grow again, and with it came her doubts. He'd known about the presentation, and had taken a book...could it be Applebloom's Diary? The more she thought about it, the more it made sense. She'd managed to steal that stupid little blank-flanks diary when she'd had to go to to their smelly farm, and it would be just like Applebloom to get someone else to fight her battles. If she'd joined up with the Iron Warriors...oh, was she ever in for it. As soon as the other kids found out no one would talk to her. Maybe even Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle would keep their distance. She'd be the least popular kid in school! Despite what was happening, Diamond Tiara smiled at how clever she was-turning such a terrifying experience to her advantage.
"I won't call anyone," she promised as the Iron Warriors moved to leave. Her voice was shaky, but she was determined to overcome it. "But you're like, an idiot if you think no-one's gonna' find you. They've probably all heard you in here anyway."
She immediately regretted her confidence as the two pairs of eyes turned to look at her again. Diamond Tiara curled up in a ball, covering her face with her hooves and whimpering "I'm sorry" in a shallow voice repeatedly. Yet nothing happened. In fact, when she dared look up, the one with the pistol actually seemed to be considering what she'd said. The talons of the massive fist attached to his left hand tapped the chin of his helmet thoughtfully.
"You're right." He agreed, to her surprise. With a speed that took the filly completely off guard the one with the knife leaned over and yanked her out of bed. His hand covered her mouth again, silencing Tiara's hollers. "We'll need a distraction." ***
The moment they'd snuck out the heavy front doors of the mansion and closed them as quietly as they could behind, Zuko and Barbus abandoned all pretence of stealth.
The Astartes sprinted down the paving stones that led to the front gate, Zuko's bionic legs easily eating up the distance and putting him just ahead. The diary hung in the empty spare pistol holster he'd brought, swaying back and forth from his belt. The leapt in unison as they reached the gate, strong hands wrapping around the tops of the railings and pulling them over so as to vault the metal bars in a single jump. They were moving again the moment they landed, seeking to put as much ground between them and the building as possible.
"I was wrong." Barbus voxed, and Zuko could hear his grin. "That was the most fun I've had in ages." The Champion didn't reply, nor did he slow when he cast a glance over his shoulder. By now he could just detect a commotion within the mansion at the edge of his hearing, and several windows now had light streaming from them; but no-one was following, and the Iron Warrior chose to capitalise on that.
They were a good fifty metres away from the immediate danger zone and heading back to Ponyville when Barbus voxed again. "I hate to be pedantic brother, but what exactly do you intend to do now you've got the book?"
"We need to get to the school before she does her presentation." Zuko said breathlessly, still focusing on the run. "Keep up, Barbus." Barbus was silent for a moment, before the vox-link erupted with laughter. Zuko heard his companion's footfalls cease behind him. He skidded to a halt, turning and reflexively engaging his power fist. Barbus stood quite afraid, arms folded and shaking his head as he chuckled.
"What the hell are you doing? We don't have time to stop." Barbus looked at Zuko for a moment, broke out in another fit of chuckles and rubbed his eye lenses with the tip of thumb and forefingers. Looking back at the champion, he pointed east. The first of the sun's rays were only just beginning to crest the mountain tops of the horizon, painting the previously black sky a bloody shade of red.
"Me and Varvillon did some investigating." He explained. "School doesn't start for five hours yet." ***
Every tick of the second hand rang painfully loud through Applebloom's head. She sat almost completely rigid on her disk, eyes fixed firmly on the clock that hung on the wall; moving only to fidget nervously. She didn't even listen to her two classmates droning on at the front.
"Calm down, will ya?" Scootaloo whispered to her left. The orange filly's eyes shone with both confusion and sympathy. "You can totally do this without Diamond Tiara, no sweat."
Applebloom spun to face her, grinding her teeth together. Scootaloo recoiled slightly.
"Calm down?" The earth pony hissed. "How can ah calm down? It's meant tah be a group project, it can't be a group if it's just me! Besahds, ah don't wanna go up there bah mahself!"
"There were more ponies watching when we did the talent show." Sweetie Belle pointed out. "And besides, you probably did most of the work anyway."
"But ah didn't know most of them ponies." Applebloom said dejectedly, practically slamming her face into the desk. "Ah didn't have tah see 'em again, and if I say something stupid now ah'll be the laughing stock of the school!"
She couldn't believe it. Diamond Tiara had been there pretty much every day for the past year, teasing the Crusaders about being blank flanks. What were the chances that, the only time Applebloom actually needed her, she'd fallen down the stairs in the middle of the night and broken a hoof? What was she even looking for? She'd almost be willing to give up any hope of getting her diary back if it meant the other half of her team was here.
Applebloom's despair was so great that she almost didn't hear Ms. Cheerilee calling her name. "Wh-what?" She stammered, lifting her head. The whole class was looking at her, Cheerilee from behind her desk included.
"Isaid it's your turn to present, Applebloom dear."
Applebloom's heart caught in her throat. She looked around for any succour, but there was none to be found. Desperately, she put on her best concerned smile.
"Oh, u, ah'd love to Ms Cheerilee, but y'see...what ah mean is, ah'm just so worried 'bout Dahmond Tiara that ah don't think ah'll be able to do the presentation without her!" She grinned toothily, sweat beading on her forehead.
Cheerilee smiled, and for a moment Applebloom dared to hope she had her. "Oh that's touching dear," her face turned grave. "but I'm afraid we can't afford to delay your presentation. I have to get these marks in today. I'm sure Diamond Tiara would want you to go on without her."
There was no way out of it. Sighing in defeat, Applebloom shuffled to the edge of her chair. She looked up at Sweetie Belle, who gave her a reassuring smile, but the filly wasn't convinced.
Just as her hooves were about to touch the ground, the classroom door was practically flung on its hinges. Sweetie Belle squeaked in fear, Cheerilee practically jumped out of her skin and Twist almost fell of her chair. Applebloom, along with many of the others, just stared as Zuko ducked into the room, padding forwards slowly and awkwardly.
The spike with the helmet on his back almost stabbed into the ceiling, and he had to stoop to fit in. He rubbed the back of his own helmet with that massive oversized claw in the closet thing to nervousness she'd yet seen from him. The kids stared wide eyed and open mouthed in awe, and he stared back, meeting all their eyes in turn and shifting uncomfortably where he stood.
Cheerilee, to her credit, rallied well. "Oh, uh, w-what a surprise mister..."
It took him a moment to look at her. "Zuko." He answered in a gruff voice.
"Zuko, right, of course." Cheerilee cleared her throat, affecting her best 'teacherly' accent. "Class, I want you to say hello to Mr Zuko, who I'm sure has a very good reason for joining us this morning."
"Good morning Mr Zuko." The fillies chorused. To Applebloom's surprise, they didn't sound scared for the most part; only as enthralled and fascinated to find out what an alien super-solider was doing in their classroom as she was. Zuko gave a small wave back, although it was clear that he didn't want to be here.
"Urm...hey. How you doing." He looked around again, seemingly unsure what to do next. Finally his red eyes settled on Archer's desk. "What's that?" He asked, pointing at a loose piece of paper. "Your drawing, what is it? It looks like a volkite culverin. Not seen one of them since Tallarn" he mumbled the last part, as if talking to himself, before twisting slightly to get a better look at the picture. "You've got the basic shape down...and the barrel's fairly accurate...but you're missing cooling vents in a few places."
"It's a boat." Archer said, still staring at Zuko in wonder.
"Oh." The Iron Warrior backed off slightly, and lapsed back into silence. He awkwardly rubbed the back of his helmet again. "I like your boat." He said at last, pointing. "That is a nice boat."
Archer didn't respond. It was Cheerille who broke the quiet. Her voice was a bit stronger now, although she was still as far away from Zuko as she could get.
"Well, that's very nice of you to say, Mr Zuko. But I'm afraid I am going to have to ask again why you're here."
He looked at her blankly for a moment, before starting a little and mumbling "Oh, right." His head swivelled until the two blazing red coals were settled on Applebloom. She gasped, eyes widening even further as she felt Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo's questioning gazes bore into her. Zuko shuffled forward towards her, having to go slowly to avoid knocking any desks over. As he moved he fiddled with a leather pouch attached to his belt. Eventually, he produced a small book, drumming on the back cover with his fingers. Applebloom's mouth went dry; could it be...
He stopped right before her desk, placing the volume delicately on the wood. Sure enough, 'Applebloom's diary' was scrawled clumsily across the top. She looked down at it, before looking back up at him. The helmet was as emotionless as always.
"How...how did ya..." .
"You dropped it." He said, a little too quickly. "Yeah, uh, you dropped it...outside...somewhere." He coughed, looking around. Applebloom could hear the lie in his words, and a few things started to add up in her mind, but she chose to keep silent. Zuko was silent too, before coughing again and turning. He moved as quickly as he could, seemingly eager to get out and only stopping when he reached Cheerilee's desk.
"Oh yeah, that was it." He said, pointing at Applebloom. "I'm pretty sure she did most of the work for her project, and is just too modest to admit it. You should give her a ...well, whatever it is you give things that are good here." Looking around once more, he turned and moved towards the door. He was almost outside when Applebloom called out, extending a hoof towards him.
"Wait!"
The Iron Warrior stopped, and looked at her. Applebloom stared back, unsure of what to say for a moment.
"Thank yah." Was what she eventually managed. Zuko didn't reply, but after a few drawn-out seconds nodded. Without a word he ducked under doorframe. Applebloom watched him go through the window; walking at first, but quickly breaking into a run as soon as he could.
She looked back towards the board, aware of the whole classes'-including Cheerilee's-eyes on her. The teacher cleared her throat again, shaking her head as if to dispel her confusion and try to restore order. "Well that was...strange." She admitted. "I'm afraid you'll still have to present, Applebloom."
Applebloom had been expecting it, but found that her fear had left her. With a cry of "yes ma'am!" she took the saddlebag containing her presentation props and trotted to the front of the room. As she set up though, the presentation was the last thing on her mind; instead, she thought about just what Zuko had done for her.
Applejack had always taught her the importance of fairness and being gratuitous when somepony helped you out, and Applebloom knew she needed to thank Zuko.
More importantly, she knew how. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Run CMC | "Come on, spill it Applebloom!" Scootaloo's voice was harsh and echoed somewhat in the tight confines of the clubhouse, but was filled with as much curiosity as anger.
"Yeah, spill it!" Sweetie Belle heard herself chorus. She knew her voice was cracking, but this was more important right now. The two Crusaders faced Applebloom across the table, but the yellow filly was holding her ground admirably.
"Ah know this looks a maht perculiar." She reassured them, for what must have been the tenth time today. "And ah'm as surprahsed as y'all are. But don't this just prove mah point that Zuko ain't a bad gah?"
They'd dragged Applebloom back to the clubhouse the moment school had ended. After the Iron Warrior had presented her with her diary and taken his leave, the rest of the day had been pretty normal-if incredibly awkward for the Crusaders. Sweetie Belle didn't feel any remorse about defending her friends from the suspicious glares and incessant questioning of their classmates, but inside she had as many fears and queries as they did. From her actions, it was clear that Scootaloo felt the same. The Pegasus stood from her seat, slamming a frustrated hoof into the table. Taking a breath, she calmed slightly.
"...I guess it was pretty cool of him to go and get it for you." Scoot admitted. "Even if he had to break into Diamond Tiara's house to find it."
"Wait, he broke in? But I thought he said he'd just picked it up?" Sweetie Belle squeaked. She was aware of the weary glances the other two gave her, but couldn't fathom why.
"Ah don't think he was being 100% honest there, Sweetie Belle." Applebloom said as graciously as she could. Sweetie was still perplexed.
"Huh...talk about a coincidence." The unicorn muttered. "Having your house broken into AND falling down the stairs."
"I don't think THAT was an accident, either." Scootaloo said with a roll of her eyes. Sweetie Belle looked at her blankly for a moment, before understanding kicked in. She gasped, eyes widening and hooves covering her mouth.
"That's terrible!"
"Oh, y'all know that she'd do it to us." Applebloom cut in hurridly, seeminglye ager to change the subject. "Tha' point is, he still did somethin' real nice, and ah've got the perfect way to say thanks."
"And what's that?" Scootaloo asked warily. Applebloom smiled, waving her friends over conspiratorially. Sweetie Belle complied. The Earth Pony whispered to Scootaloo first, then Sweetie. The white Unicorn recoiled, stunned, but Scootaloo spoke first.
"You really think he'll want to?" she asked, her disbelief plain. "I mean, from what you've said I get that he wanted to help you stop Diamond Tiara taking all the credit for your project, but that's still a bit...well, extreme."
"Of course he'll want tah." Applebloom said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. "He said none of 'em have their Cutie Marks. It's tah perfect way tah say thank yah, and they might start bein' nahcer to everypony if we be nahce to them."
"Rarity said the wizard told her they don't have Cutie Marks." Sweetie Belle whimpered, in a small scared voice. "She said that their super strong and stuff because they were made that way."
"Well then that's even better!" Applebloom insisted. "They're already made tah be good at something, maybe he'll know how tah make us find our special talents!"
"I don't think it works that way-" Sweetie began, but she trailed off as Applebloom gave her a pleading look. The unicorn still wasn't convinced. She didn't hate the Iron Warriors as a lot of the grown-ups seemed to, but they did frighten her. She'd only really been in close proximity with the subject of their current debate, the two who'd been at Pinkie Pie's-she still had the occasional nightmare about the one with the machine instead of an eye-and the wizard who got on with Rarity and sometimes came to visit. He was nice enough, and talked to Sweetie in an easy, friendly manner, but he was still quite scary and she could never manage to look at him or say more than the occasional squeak before galloping off. They weren't even the worst-the huge one with the freaky face creeped her out, or the angry shaky guy both seemed who seemed to always want to hurt somepony.
Applebloom looked from Scootaloo to Sweetie Belle for some kind of purchase, the smile slowly dropping from her face as she realised there was none to be found. Defeated for the moment, she adopted a new strategy.
"Scootaloo, didn't you say yourself when we were in Canterlot that maybe the only reason they're so scary is because they're scared and alone themselves." The filly demanded, sticking her bottom lip out. Unprepared for this new scrutiny, Scootaloo backed away slightly.
"Well, yeah, but..."
"And didn't he save our lives from that mean ole' Changeling?" That was a general question, and Sweetie felt the guilt settle in her gut as she considered it. That was true...the Iron Warrior had pulled them out of a sticky situation.
Seeing she was gaining momentum, Applebloom pressed on. "Think about it. If we had him on our side, and could prove he weren't a bad gah, then maybe us Ponyfolk and them can start working together! And besides, think how useful they'd have been whilst we were crusadin' in the past?"
"Like how?" Scootaloo asked, generally curious.
"Lahk..." Applebloom pondered for a moment, rubbing her chin. "Lahk when Babs first got here and we had that whole misunderstandin'!" ***
"Babs may have run us out of town." Applebloom groaned, dejectedly, trudging side by side with her fellow crusaders. "But at least we still have the club...house?"
The fillies' hopes and protests died in their throats as they looked up to see Babs leaning nonchalantly on the railing outside their treehouse. The Manehattanite looked down at them with a cruel smile.
"Hey!" She shouted, pointing an accusing hoof as if they were in the wrong. "Whatare you doing at my Clubhouse?"
It was too much for Scootaloo. "Y-y-YOUR Clubhouse?!" she squealed, hovering a few metres in the air as her tiny wings beat in fury. "This is OUR Clubhouse!" she insisted, landing.
"Well it was yours," Babs corrected, smiling again and rolling her eyes. "And now, it's mine."
"And mine." Silver Spoon said, appearing seemingly from thin air.
"And mine." Echoed Diamond Tiara.
Before the Crusaders could respond, a metallic, gravelly voice cut through the woodland. "No. It's mine."
Six pairs of eyes rested on the Space Marine as he emerged into the clearing. The optics on Zuko's helmet burned their familiar red, but he had shed the Power fist and Pistol in place of a huge, gargoyle-mouthed missile launcher. Ammunition was stacked in a chute leading up from the top, and the body was covered in yellow and black stripes.
Ignoring the slack-jawed gapes from the Crusaders, Zuko dropped to a knee, sighting down the crosshairs of the missile launcher. Babs squinted down for a moment, unsure what the alien was doing. When she did realise it was far too late.
The Iron Warrior depressed the trigger, sending a missile rocketing from the daemon mouth and straight at the treehouse. Black smoke bellowed from its rear as it twirled in mid-air, but it didn't have far to fly. It smashed into the side of the lovingly-restored clubhouse, exploding with an almighty roar. Fire began to spread to nearby trees as the flimsy wooden building was utterly blasted apart, along with any who'd been next to it.
Applebloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle could only stand, mouths still hanging open like idiots, as bits of Babs, slivers of Silver Spoon and dollops of Diamond Tiara rained down around them, along with flaming timbers and sprays of blood. Zuko stood back up, lowering his weapon and seeming to ignore the film of red liquid that now covered his silver plate. Turning, he looked down at the three girls, as if only noticing them for the first time.
"What?" he asked. ***
Sweetie Belle stood in silence for a moment as the image faded from her mind, before shuddering slightly. From the similar reactions of her friends, she guessed they were all thinking along the same lines.
"Okay...so maybe that wasn't the best example." Applebloom said, slowly.
"I'll say." Scoot mumbled.
"But," The earth pony put in quickly. "Ah still think it'd be a swell think tah do for a gah who's helped us all out in the past."
"I still don't know Applebloom." Sweetie Belle said apologetically. "Even if the Iron Warriors are o-"
"He has a name." Applebloom said. Sweetie Belle was taken aback by the choler in her friend's voice, and it took a moment to collect herself.
"Even if Zuko is on our side, he's still kind of dangerous."
"Only if we do somethin' stupid, which we won't. And besahds, look at it lahk this-all that stuff we're not allowed to trah 'cus it's 'too dangerous'? Well with Zuko around, there's no way ponies like Applejack can say that we ain't safe!"
It didn't make sense to Sweetie Belle, but Scootaloo seemed to take to the idea. She hovered in the air excitedly.
"Yeah! We could go into places like the Everfree forest whenever we wanted, and it'd be totally safe with him around." Applebloom smiled, seeing she had the advantage. Sweetie Belle watched her trot round to their side of the table, standing between the other two crusaders.
"You know Sweetie Belle, we'd need to make a 'special order' for him tah do this." Applebloom said. Again, Sweetie Belle was lost for a moment, until her eyes came to rest on the red fabric hanging from a 'borrowed' coatrack. Instantly she brightened, all thoughts of scary aliens gone.
"You're right! I could design a whole new cape! And when Rarity sees it, it'll probably be great for business too if the others all want one!"
Applebloom grinned, pleased to have got Sweetie on board. She turned her attention to Scootaloo, who still seemed to waver slightly. "And Scootaloo," she began, somberly resting a hoof on the Peagsus' shoulder. "Havent'cha always wanted tah have a big brother?"
Scootaloo eyed her suspiciously for a moment, but it was clear AB had her. She nodded uncharacteristically shyly. Applebloom retracted her hoof, resting them both on the table. "So it's settled then." She placed an arm round Sweetie and Scootaloo's shoulders, dragging them closer.
"Now here's what we're gonna do..."
"And then I said, 'Oatmeal, are you crazy?'"
The story's conclusion was met with silence, but Pinkie didn't seem to mind. The truth was they'd all heard it before...several times, but Twilight suspected that it was more Pinkie's tendency to perhaps talk without thinking first more than any conscious desire that caused her to repeat it. At the very least they smiled back with her; all except Rainbow Dash, who rolled her eyes with a groan and tried to get comfortable.
"Well, I for one am just glad that all you girls were able to make it." The lilac unicorn said. "With...everything that's been going on, we've hardly been able to see each other."
"Oh think nothing of it, darling." Rarity said, sipping delicately at her cocktail. Fluttershy drank something similar beside her; she didn't say anything, but smiled earnestly and nodded.
"Wha, jus' because there's some mighty strange goings-on 'round these parts don't mean we need ta' stop being friends!" Applejack added. She'd already gone through two bottles of Apple Juice, and was now moving onto the cider.
"Although do we have to have these get-togethers inside?" Rainbow complained, still fidgeting on her cushions. "A cloud would be way comfier."
The sun was shining and they'd considered getting a table outside, but the heat had been heavy and constant the whole week and it was starting to sap a lot of Ponies' energy. When they'd found out the restaurant was air conditioned, the girls had practically sprinted inside-even Dash. Twilight's library was stuffy at the best of times, and combined with general stress the rising temperatures meant that sleep had been scarce, fleeting and disturbed.
"Oh you're all very kind, but I'm serious." Twilight said mournfully. "here I am writing all these lessons to Princess Celestia about friendship, and I neglect my five best friends!" she chuckled at the end, but the point was there.
"Don't be ridiculous Twi." Applejack said reassuringly. "You ain't abandoned nobody. It's not lahk you could've know that all this was going tah happen."
But I should have a little voice said inside Twilight's head. With all my studying and mapping the sky, I should have. By Celestia, I'll never be caught off guard again. She thought these things, but didn't say them. Her smile was as warm as any, touched by her friend's kind words.
"Yeah! I mean, these last few months have been so wacko, that even I'VE been struggling to keep up! I mean, I had three birthdays, two cutecinceras, a wedding, and a ton of other stuff ato organise, plus getting the Cakes' entry for the Canterlot bakeoff ready, which looks really super-duper scrumptious, almost as scrumptious as the MMM although I hope that it's not to scrumptious that what happened last time happens again and-hey, that's a great idea, we should totally have a Ponyville party!" Pinkie Pie certainly sounded as enthusiastic as ever.
"A party sounds wonderful, Pinkie dear." Rarity said. "Plus, it couldn't have come at a better time, I have some new designs that I've just been DYING to show off. Oh, that reminds me." She turned to Fluttershy. "Fluttershy, darling, I know it's your birthday soon, so I've been working on a brand new dress that I just know you're going to love. I've just been so excited I can't wait to show it you, would you like to come to Carousel Boutique after lunch and pick it up?"
The smile slowly died on Fluttershy's face, and she turned away a little. Twilight, as well as all the others, looked at her quizzically.
"What's wrong?" Rarity asked, easily the most upset. "Do you not want a new dress?"
"Oh, I do, and I'm sure it's wonderful Rarity." The yellow Pegasus said. It was one of the first times she'd spoken since arriving, Twilight considered. "It's just..."
"It's just what?"
"It's just, I don't..."
"You don't what? You don't like it?"
"No, it's that, I don't..." Fluttershy took a deep breath. "I don't have anywhere to put it."
Rarity looked at her lopsidedly for a moment. "Come again?"
"I don't have a wardrobe." Her voice was barely above a whisper. The ponies looked at one another in confusion, unsure what exactly she meant. It was Twilight that figured it out.
"They didn't build you one, did they." It wasn't a question, but Fluttershy gave a shallow nod anyway. Instantly the mood around table grew more hostile. Pinkie, in particular, affected a worryingly cold expression.
"Good heavens!" Rarity gasped. "You mean you have...nowhere to put your clothes at all?"
"Well, um." Fluttershy began, reddening even more. "The thing is...I kind of don't have anything to wear. They destroyed it all."
To her credit, Rarity didn't faint, but she didn't turn an ever paler white. Rainbow slammed her hooves on the table. "Those jerks." She snarled, nostrils flaring. "Did they leave you with anything?" Fluttershy shook her head. Twilight took It upon herself to be the calm one.
"Fluttershy, I thought you were going to go and talk to them about getting your cottage back." She said. Fluttershy looked at her, but seemed to draw more in on herself.
"Oh, well, I was, but it was nice of them to build the house for me and I didn't want to disturb them-"
"Disturb but nothin'." Applejack said. "It's your home, and they was the ones who messed it up in tah first place. Yah need furnishings, not cannons-good gravy girl, they've built yer a bloomin' deathtrap!"
More angry discussion broke out, with Pinkie Pie espousing the virtues of various kinds of ostracision. For a moment Twilight felt close to a breakdown, powerless against the rapid deterioration of order, when suddenly she remembered. Reaching into the saddlebag shed slung under the table, the unicorn produced seven slips of glittering gold. An expectant hush fell over the element bearers.
"Are those...what I think they are?" Rarity asked, eyes lighting up now she'd recovered. Twlight nodded, brerathing an internal sigh of relief now crisis had been averted.
"Yep, seven tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala."
"But ain't that like, next week?" Applejack asked. "How'd ya get them tickets on such short notice?"
"Well, being Princess Celestia's personal student does have some advantages." Twilight answered with a chuckle and a blush. It wasn't the most modest thing to do, but she knew her friends wouldn't mind.
"Yeah, that's great Twi, but..." Rainbow Dash ooked around a little awkwardly. "Are you sure we'll be allowed back after...last time?"
The others seemed to consider this for a moment-none of them needed to be reminded of that escapade. Twilight shook her head, seeking to dispel their fears.
"Whilst I agree that we maybe weren't on our best behaviour last time, the Princess saysthat it'll be a lot less formal this year." She said. "I just thought it'd be nice to...get away from it all for a night."
It was hard to argue with that. Twilight dished 5 of the tickets out, keeping one for herself. "and of course, one for you Sp-Spike?"
The little dragon's seat was empty.
Twilight cursed herself for not keeping a closer eye on him, and his silence had seemed a little odd, but she'd been so caught up in seeing her friends again she'd almost forgot about him. Panic began to sink in as she looked around desperately for any sign of him; there was none. The others joined in as soon as they realised what was wrong. It was Fluttershy who provided answers after a minute of fruitless searching. She screamed, pointing out a window. Twilight ran to look. There, sat on a low wall across the street. And next to him was...was one of...
"Spike!" She yelled, bolting for the door. The others followed hot on her heel, Applejack and Pinkie Pie running-running, not hopping in the latter's case-alongside Twi. They skidded to a halt in front of the dragon and the alien, Twilight's horn lighting up with the familiar purple magical aura.
"Oh, hey Twilight!" The baby dragon said cheerily.
Twilight stopped, only now appreciating the full strangeness of the scene before her. Spike sat as he often did, feet dangling slightly off the ground, licking away eagerly at an ice cream. The Iron Warrior next to him was by contrast hunched over and with his sword resting across his lap, somehow looking miserable even through a helmet. He too held the bottom half of an ice cream between a thumb and forefinger, but the actual cream portion had fallen out and was now a messy pink blob by his feet.
"It was hot, so I went out for ice cream." Spike explained. "This guy flagged it down so I got one for him as well." Twilight looked at him stunned, and then up at the Space Marine. He said nothing, although it was clear he didn't want to be here. She was just about to chide Spike for running off when Rainbow Dashspoke up.
"Oh, great." She scowled. "It's you."
The Iron Warrior studied her momentarily, before sheathing his sword with a twirl. Twilight only got a small glimpse of the eye symbol built into the hilt. He sighed, folding his arms.
"This, I assume, is the part where you accuse me of ruining your oh-so-very vital training."
"And fer chasin' Lyra." Applejack added, recognising him as well. The Iron Warrior turned his attention towards the farmer, but she maintained eye contact.
"You lassoed me." His hands began to twitch and spasm, but at that moment Spike hopped off the wall and moved to stand between the two parties.
"Hey guys, let's just cool it. I'm sure Rorke didn't mean anything by all that."
'Rorke', Twilight assumed, was this one's name. She didn't really know most of them by name, only their look; this was the one who shook a lot. The unicorn was fairly certain he had meant something, but the Iron Warrior was quicker.
"If it makes you feel any better, I didn't go out of my way to annoy you specifically. Being a Chaos Space Marine doesn't make me a petty bastard."
Rainbow, of course, rose to his bait. "Oh yeah? Sure didn't look that way to me."
"No." Rorke clarified. "Being a petty bastard makes me a petty bastard."
"Language." Rarity mumbled. Twilight only just heard it standing beside her, but Rorke's head instantly swivelled towards her. It surprised, and more than a little intrigued Twilight.
"Sorry." He said in a tone that made it clear he was anything but. "I usually leave the sarcasm to Zuko. And spending as much time with the witch as you do would desensitise anyone." His head tilted to the side as he spotted something. He leaned closer, seeming to focus on the golden ticket that hovered besides rarity. He pointed. "The fuck is that?"
The last thing Twilight needed was for the Iron Warriors to become aware of Equestrian traditions, and she was about to make an excuse to leave when once again Spike took it upon himself to speak up. "Oh that? That's a ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala. It's like, the biggest party in all of Equestria, and it's hosted every year at Canterlot castle. We went last year, but things got a bit out of control. Did we get more tickets Twi? Did I get one?"
"Yes. You did." She said flatly, wondering how best to discipline her surrogate little brother for this. Rorke sat quietly for a moment. "Grand...galloping...gala." He said no more, but Twilight was sure she heard him snicker quietly. Spike finished of his ice cream, walking over to stand with the ponies and blissfully unaware of the looks they were giving him.
"Well, I'm sure this has been very nice, but Spike really needs to be going now." Twilight said, forcing a smile as she pulled the dragon away. Spike looked confused, but accepted it.
"Oh...okay." He waved. "Bye Rorke! I'll come and see you for more war stories some time!" The Iron Warrior was silent as Twilight marched Spike away even quicker. The elements began to march back to the restaurant, although all their appetites had been spoiled by now. Rorke didn't move, but as she walked away Twilight was sure she heard him mumble "Grand Galloping Gala..."
He wanted to run, or fight back, but he knew that he couldn't. They'd lured him into their trap and now he had to face the consequences.
It was a day after the whole escapade at the school they came for him; Applebloom and the white one, who he now identified as Sweetie Belle. It wasn't like they'd come for him alone. Barbus had been with him, taking the opportunity to train their swordplay in the open air, but the arrival of the juvenile Ponies had seen the other Iron Warrior off with nothing more than a mocking clap on Zuko's shoulder. Truth be told being by himself with and having to play nice to them d made Zuko uneasy, but he'd born it with the same bitter tenacity all his Legion would have. They had been pleasant enough, although Sweetie Belle was clearly terrified, and had asked him to come and have a look at 'making their tree house a cool fort like you did Fluttershy's". Zuko, of course, hadn't actually worked on the cottage-although asking Lorkhan to come along would have been inviting trouble-but they'd been ordered to make themselves useful, and truth be told his professional curiosity had been piqued by the challenge. That's how they'd lured him in.
Credit to the Ponies; they'd realised even before he arrived that he wouldn't fit inside their shack, and so had relocated everything they'd need outside. Sweetie Belle, who had disappeared halfway through the walk and now sported a red cape, stood atop a podium clutching a long role of paper. She just about reached his chest. The orange one-Scootaloo-also wore a cape, and solemnly stood to attention astride a set of bongo drums that were almost as big as she was. Applebloom had had the full force of Zuko's questioning gaze directed upon her, but had borne it stoically, and now donned her own cape as she stood beside the podium. Zuko faced the three small horses, unsure whether to laugh or prepare for battle.
Just as the silence was growing too awkward to bear, Scootaloo began to beat a staccato rhythm on the drums. Her facial expression never changed from stern neutrality, and combined with the steady beat it could almost have been ominous. After a few moments however she let loose, face cracking in a smile as she beat the drums with wild abandon.
When the percussion had ceased, Sweetie belle took a moment to steady herself, cleared her throat, and begun to read from her scroll.
"We, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, elect Iron Warrior Zuko to join us as a sis-"
She caught herself as the words began to escape her throat, Applebloom's worried expression saying enough. Smiling widely, she wiped the sweat from her brow and continued, trying her best to ignore Zuko's red glare.
"Brother, friend, confidante, ally, bosom buddy, guy pal, compadre, chum-of-chums..." she took the paper aside for a moment, looking down at the winged pony. "Scootaloo, I thought you were going to revise this?"
"I'll get round to it." Scootaloo mumbled, blushing. Sweetie Belle groaned before continuing.
"Homeboy, amigo...well, you get the picture...oh, and fellow Cutie Mark Crusader! You are solemnly sworn in here this day, in witness of your fellow sisters, friends, confidantes, bosom buddies..."
In a desperate attempt to stop her in her track, Applebloom reached into the folds of her cape, producing confetti seemingly from the ether. Sweetie Belle took the hint, striking a pose with the other two as the confetti landed on the ground in front of Zuko. The Iron Warrior's only response was to watch for several, long minutes.
"This is a joke, right?" he asked eventually. The smiles died on the Crusaders faces, as Applebloom slowly approached him. "Ah thought you'd want ta join?" she said, utterly confused. "And besahds, it's our way of saying thank yah for helping me with getting' mah dahry back!"
Thank you. She's said that to me three times now. Truly we live in an age of wonder.
"I've already told you, I didn't do it for you." The Astartes grumbled. "I did it for the Legion. Which, even if I did want to join, would have my head if I joined some Xenos cult."
"It's not a cult." Sweetie Belle insisted. "It's a consortium. "
"Whatever it is, thanks, but no thanks." Zuko clarified. Deciding to help one of them was a strain-he wouldn't go joining them. He turned to leave, doing his best to block out their sad eyes.
"But yah can't go!" Applebloom wailed. "Not after we had this ceremony, and made ya a cape an' everything!"
He should have kept walking, escaped the trap. Yet Zuko stopped, turning to look at them. "You...what?"
Sweetie Belle reached behind the podium and produced a stack of neatly folded red fabric. Rushing over to him, she held it out before her, the ends trailing on the ground. His mind unable to stop his body from moving Zuko reached out and took the corners of the cloth in both hands, taking care that his power fist didn't rip it.
It was, as they'd said, a cape in the same style of theirs. The deep red fabric was slightly darker than theirs, almost crimson-or the colour of blood, although he doubted they knew that-and had been extended for a being of his size. A lot of the work was quite crudely done; it was clear Sweetie Belle wasn't used to working with this size, and had resorted to quite haphazardly stitching many smaller pieces of the fabric together with painfully obvious bright yellow thread. In a corner of the crusader's cape was emblazoned what Zuko assumed was their emblem, a golden pony rearing against a shield of blue. Yet when he examined his, he found Sweetie Belle had attempted to sew his Legion symbol in place of her own. The helmeted skull was actually fairly well done, but small and rough around the edges. All in all it was work the Legion's artificers, or even any mortal clothier, would have scoffed at.
But it was his. Not something he'd ripped from a slain enemy and claimed as loot. Not something he'd asked Lorkhan to cobble together in exchange for volunteering for an idiotic suicide mission. Not something belched out of the daemonic forges of the Warp. Something that was actually his and belonged to him alone, and was being given for no other reason than to appreciate what he had done.
Zuko looked at the cape, then down at the children. They looked up with tense expressions.
"Why?" The Chaos Marine said at last. Applebloom watched him for a moment as if he'd just asked whether the sky was blue before smiling and resting a tiny hoof on his lower leg.
"Because you're mah friend." She said.
The weight of the Imperial Fist helmet spiked on his power pack suddenly became very apparent to Zuko. He found he could recall the face of the warrior he'd taken it from; remember the look of hatred in his eyes, the loathing reserved only for traitors. If any of his brothers had seen this they'd have probably shot him on sight, and it would have been a mercy. And yet despite the protests of his Fourth legion brain, Zuko whipped the cape to lie across his back, tying it tight around his neck. It hung a few scant inches from the ground.
"This once." He told them, the emotion in his voice unclear. "I wear it this once." It was enough for the Crusaders. Sweetie Belle squealed din delight, clapping her hooves together, whilst Applebloom wrapped his leg in an embrace that didn't quite reach around the limb. It was a conscious effort not to shake her off. The other two followed suit, Sweetie Belle hugging his other leg as Scootaloo beat her tiny wings furiously so as to hover and wrap herself around his power talon. Zuko stood there, allowing them their moment and working overdrive to contain ten thousand years of preconditioned clinical hatred and bitter anger.
At the edge of his perception, the champion could have sworn he heard Mordecai's cultured laughter.
> Jagermeister
"Calm down, Twilight. Everything'll be fine."
It was easy for Spike to insist she calm down, Twilight reflected. He was still young and foolish; he didn't really know any better. He wasn't balancing not only his own fate, but the fate of all his friends and possibly all the realm on a knife-edge in the hope that nothing went drastically wrong. Nor was he entirely cognisant of the dangers of what exactly they were up against-his stunted and unreciprocated attempt at male bonding had displayed that well enough. No, for all the world it felt like Twilight and Twilight alone bore the fears and concerns of her race firmly on her purple shoulders tonight.
The dress Rarity had made for her was beginning to feel choking and sweaty. Twilight forced herself to take a deep breath, and bring a smile she didn't believe in to her face. For one, Rarity would be distraught were she to ruin her garment; Twilight had told her multiple times that the one she'd made for last year's gala was more than okay, but the fashionista had insisted, slaving away in her free time to craft a new gown for the Element bearers. Twilight's was a deep purple to contrast the cosmological blue she'd chosen before. Ribbons in the shapes of stars and planets were sewn in luxurious gold thread, and on the cloak draped over her back constellations twinkled with a magical light. Her tiara was only slightly less impressive than the Element of Magic's crown, a cord of red gold with another starburst fashioned from a diamond.
"Sorry, Spike." She lied. She was going to take this seriously, even if no-one else was. "It's just that, with so many ponies in one place, we do make kind of a tempting target for...them."
"I don't see why." The dragon answered, brushing crumbs off his pint sized tuxedo as he chomped down another hors d'oeuvre. "I mean, the Iron Warriors know they need us to get home, and what would they have to gain from attacking us?" He tossed a small piece of food up, long lizard tongue lashing out to catch it mid-air. "Besides, it was your idea to come in the first place."
That was true. It had been on Twilight's suggestion that the group had come to the Gala, as a way of relaxation. They'd stuck together through the early part of the night-memories of last time still fresh-and for a while Twilight had been perfectly happy, talking and laughing the night away with her friends. But slowly they'd drifted away from one another-some carried by the flow of groups of minglers, others to seek out particular ponies of high status. As Twilight was reduced to sharing Spike's company alone, her doubts had grown and festered until they were a raging, unending torrent in her head. The Unicorn wished she'd thought to bring a book with her. Even with all the friendship lessons she'd learned, what she craved right now-and more than ever recently, she realised-was knowledge, not socialising.
She sighed, accepting that Spike wasn't going to heed her point. Instead she nuzzled him gently, telling him to have a good time before turning and trotting away. Staying there worrying wouldn't help, and maybe she could find one of her friends or even the Princess. She bobbed and weaved through the crowd, smiling warmly at any pony that greeted her but otherwise staying silent.
The gala's atmosphere was certainly more relaxed than it had been in previous years. Much of the dress code had been relaxed, although that seemed to have been entirely lost on Rarity, and the band played a variety of tunes besides the dreary classical sonatas. The ballroom and great chambers were still as grand as Twilight remembered from her fillyhood; the gilded stair cases, glowing chandeliers and fine marble statues never ceased to entrance her, even on a night like tonight. She looked up, examining the main ballroom's largest chandelier. Every glass crystal was cut so fine as to be perfectly smooth, and were bewitched so they emitted an ever changing spectrum of colours to bathe the room. Twilight couldn't see what the delicate scrollwork inked across every arm of the furnishing said, but even so it was impressive. Luna's moon was not long set, and the sky still shimmered with a silvery blade of dying light.
As if the thought summoned her, she appeared across the room. Princess Luna had not bothered to dress up for the event, sporting the same midnight-clue crown, necklace and shoes as ever. Somehow it served only to make the alicorn look more regal, not less. She stood atop a staircase, welcoming late arrivals with a graceful smile. Nor was she alone; Twilight's heart fluttered with joy as she spied the sparkling multi-hued hair, exquisite golden crown and flawless alabaster-white coat that could only belong to her mentor. Celestia looked up as a dull-looking Pony in top hat and tails passed her, her face broadening in a smile as she saw Twilight approach. Luna followed her gaze, but upon spying the unicorn her only reaction was to scowl. Mumbling something to her sister, she turned and stalked away.
"Is...Princess Luna still mad at me?" Twilight asked reproachfully as she drew nearer. She'd not spoken to the Princess since the battle in Canterlot, when she'd suggested allowing the Iron Warriors to stay until they knew what they were dealing with, much to the Princess of the Night's displeasure. It had evidently been the cause of unspoken friction, but Celestia's response was to chuckle delicately.
"Luna will forgive you, my faithful student. Just give her time, she's always been more...temperamental as I have." She laughed. Twilight laughed with her, but it was far more nervous. Celestia noticed immediately, and her face changed to an expression of motherly concern. "Is something wrong, Twilight dear? You know you can tell me if there is."
Despite herself, Twilight shifted slightly when Celestia laid a hoof on her shoulder. Although the unicorn knew the Princess perhaps better than anyone else, with the exception of Luna, it was sometimes difficult to be in her radiance for too long; almost like staring into the sun. Twilight was firmly a creature of science and fact, and she wasn't afraid to admit she disdained any who believed in snarks and grumpkins hiding in the depths of the forests and the like, but even she had to admit that Celestia and her sister were perhaps the closest things there were to physical gods.
"Oh it's nothing, really. I mean...it's just that...I think..."
"Lorkhan?" Celestia interjected. Twilight paled to hear her speak his name so nonchalantly, but nodded. Celestia chuckled again, drawing her protege in close.
"You really mustn't worry yourself over him." She insisted. "Lorkhan's many things: Bitter, angry, brutal, vindictive...perhaps a little slow on the uptake sometimes. But at heart I've seen enough of him as we've worked together to know he's no fool. Besides, have you considered that he and his brothers want to go home as much as we want them to?"
Twilight thought on that. She hadn't considered it. Even so, words rose unbidden to her mouth. "Has...has he ever said what his home's like?" All of a sudden, Celestia's expression changed to a mournful one, but she did not answer. When she did speak, it was to change the subject. "I promise Twilight, everything will be all right. Besides, what possible reason could they have for coming here?"
"Besides, what possible reason do we have for going there?" Rorke growled as he concluded his rant, cursing loudly and colourfully as his head slammed into the wall as they crossed a bump. The Growler was many things, but possessed of a good suspension wasn't one of them.
Lorkhan didn't grace his brother with an answer. The cramped and shaky confines of the tank took most of his attention, and furthermore he wasn't sure there was a real answer. Attending high class functions was something that was better suited to the Ultramarines, or the Phoenician's get before the War, not the Iron Warriors. Even the eternal gentleman Mordecai had expressed a certain reluctance, without ever actually disagreeing of course, but in the end they'd decided to go for two reasons. Firstly, even the Astartes were starting to grow weary of having naught to do but train and fortify. Secondly, if Lorkhan found evidence that Celestia had no intention of keeping up her side of the bargain, he could kill her.
There were seven Iron Warriors loaded into the Growler's troop compartment; eight overall, if the driver was taken into account. In another worrying break with Fourth Legion tradition, they'd actually made an attempt to conform to smarten up-Mordecai and Lorkhan's armour had been scrubbed clean of most accumulated dirt and grime, the sorcerer espousing the virtue of cleanliness. Vortun, to his credit had tried, but the nature of his blessing had left all such efforts futile. In theory he shouldn't even have fit in the Rhino, but with much grunting and squeezing they'd finally managed to get him in, although the consequence had been crushing his brothers against the tank's walls. Barbus and his three hand-picked Astartes hadn't cleaned their war-plate, but instead wore heavy fur cloaks that hung from their shoulders like the hide of a great beast. The warband had skinned them from wolves, although not all had been the quadrapedal variety. In the gruelling siege warfare and trench battles the Iron Warriors favoured a cloak was often an unnecessary hazard, and even out of combat they disdained dressing up, but all had thought it appropriate for the moment. Rorke, of course, had done nothing, and was here solely because Lorkhan had made him come.
It was Barbus who came to his rescue. "Well, clearly we're not here for our health Rorke. Some of us are competent enough to understand a reconnaissance mission when we see it."
Rorke shifted angrily in his seat, hands twitching as one of them rested on the hilt of his sword, but Vortun's bulk held him in place. "Big words, lickspittle. Too bad Zuko isn't around to help you back them up." He spat.
"Enough, both of you." Lorkhan interjected, before it got out of hand. "Focus on the mission." Barbus cocked his head in mute judgement, but shrugged and leaned back without a word. Rorke however was not so easily dissuaded.
"And if the Xenos do try something?" He was answered by Lorkhan's steely gaze.
"Then that would be...unfortunate."
Quiet reigned for a moment, before Rorke nodded, seemingly content. Lorkhan folded his arms and gritted what remained of his teeth as they crested another rock. It wasn't long before Mordecai broke the silence.
"I struggle to see any stratagem here that is benefocial to the Xenos, sir, although I confess I do suffer from a most perculiar headache. Though, it seems a fine night for such an event." He was telling the truth-the sky was cloudless, the winds refreshingly cool. Lorkhan had never liked trenches as much as some of his brothers, and if nothing else Equestria's climate was agreeable. Mordecai's words made him think of something else, however, and he opened a vox link in his helmet.
"Talk to me, Varvillon."
The other Iron Warrior had gone on ahead at the Warsmith's request, taking up a scouting role to observe the party before they arrived. Last time Lorkhan had checked, he'd been perched atop a rock face that looked straight into the main ballroom.
"Judging from the hordes I can see, you'd think this was the highlight of their year. The pink one you nearly killed is here with the purple horned one, as well as butterfly arse-"
"Fluttershy."
"She's here too. As is Celestia...you realise I can blow her head off with a slight decompression of my finger, right?"
It was tempting-oh so tempting-but she was still useful to Lorkhan for the time being. Plus, if it came to that, she was his.
"Don't even think about it, Varvillon. When did you get a sniper rifle anyway?"
"What, this? I took it from Sarkon before the crash. Bastard owed me, stepped on that Prandium rose-tree I was keeping."
Sarkon had been their best scout, and responsible for the accurate impact of countless artillery barrages. None of this meant Lorkhan had liked him.
"You 'took' it? Didn't he say anything?"
"He said something."
Lorkhan smirked, cutting the link. It was another ten or so minutes before they reached their destination. Gradually the growling engines reduced to a low snarl, and the few remaining internal lights flickered on as the hiss of pressure heralded the Rhino's doors opening. Vortun was the first out, with a bit of effort, flanked by Barbus and another Iron Warrior holding their guns at the ready. Rorke, Lorkhan and the rest followed. Mordecai took in a deep breath and stretched, pebbles rising into the air around him and vibrating violently as he gently reached out with his psychic power. Had any of them bother to look behind them they would undoubtedly have seen the castle's front gardens torn up by the tracks of their vehicle, but the Iron Warriors' eyes were instead drawn ahead.
From what little they'd seen, Canterlot and the castle looked a lot more inviting when they weren't being dragged in as prisoners or fighting for their lives through its streets. The stone from which it was made wasn't clear, but the liberal application of gemstones and flawless glass did lend the castle a certain aesthetic charm. Not that any of the mattered to Lorkhan; as a defensive position it was shoddy, and even factoring the inevitable magic in the Warsmith had already analysed over 27 structural weaknesses and avenues of attack. Storing them away for later review, he pressed on towards the great doors, companions in tow.
The pony serving as a doorman was well dressed, but that didn't seem to stop him shaking like Rorke on a bad day as the Astartes approached. It was only in the tiniest of voices he called out as they passed "e-excuse me, b-but you can't go in if you don't have a t-t-ticket..."
Lorkhan stopped at his words, but didn't turn. It wasn't until he heard the sound of Rorke's power sword flaring to life and the rack on three bolters being pulled that he regarded the Xenos.
"There's my ticket."
It wasn't long before his nerve, inevitably, broke, and the pony was sent squealing down the path in a blind panic. Barbus snatched the top hat from his head as he passed, hanging it from the tip of one of the horns that curved round from the side of his helmet. It was unprofessional, but Lorkhan allowed him the eccentricity. They pushed on, through deserted stairwells and chambers as stealthily as they could. The presence of Vortun and live power armour made such an act near enough impossible, but from the sound of it the ponies were congregating in the main hall where not so long ago the Iron Warriors had been on trial. The return had a certain grim irony to it, Lorkhan acknowledged.
Eventually they reached the door. The excitable and idle blabber of hundreds of voices behind hadn't abated, and it seemed that the Ponies still didn't know they were there. That suited Lorkhan just fine. As he was about to push through the door, he felt the gauntlet of what could only be Mordecai rest on his pauldron. Preparing himself for a lecture on civility and poise, he was surprised when the sorcerer's voice came through a private channel.
"It seems prudent to...exercise caution, sir."
Despite his dislike of the Psyker, something in Mordecai's tone gave Lorkhan paused. He looked at the Telekine searchingly. "Why?" Mordecai didn't answer for a moment, but Lorkhan thought he saw him...wince?
"It's...you'll pardon my saying, sir, but for the first time since we arrive I feel...power, sir."
For a long time Lorkhan stared at him, weighing up what Mordecai was implying. It became clear they couldn't go back now, and he pushed his doubts to one side. With a grudging nod to the warlock, Lorkhan pushed the door open.
Above all else, Pinkie Pie prided herself on the ability to always have a good time.
Sometimes, when observing this for the first time, other ponies would roll their eyes or scoff at her. They saw it as a sign of a flat personality, a weak and entirely dependent little girl-she knew all this, because some were quite vocal about it. She admitted that she could be a little...pushy, when it came to making new friends, but ultimately Pinkie tried not to take such comments to heart. She was proud of her optimism and the great stock she put in making those she cared bot smile, and after a while most came round to her way of thinking.
She wasn't certain, but Pinkie reckoned that quality was why she was so good at throwing parties. Ultimately her talent was expressing her happiness, which gave her degrees of skill in music, art and dance, but it was party-throwing that really captured her imagination and brought her satisfaction. The Grand Galloping Gala was a let down on that front last time, but she'd been more than willing to try again, and it'd paid off. She'd been rushed off her hooves trying to dance, catch up with everyone and make time to talk to anyone who looked lonely, but that was her lot and it was enough for her to know that everyone else was enjoying themselves.
So when the arrival of the Iron Warriors caused the music and dancing to stop, and a stone cold silence to fall over the hall, Pinkie's heart froze more than most.
The chandeliers, bleached castle interior and little remaining moonlight combined to give their shining silver armour an almost too perfect glow, and contrasted heavily with the muted bronze and deep blacks that formed pauldrons and trim. As they walked, their footsteps rang off the floor with an eerie synchronisation, echoing around the noiseless ballroom, although it was drowned out by the coming of one of the huge ugly ones with guns in their arms. Three of the marauders wore long cloaks over their shoulders that seemed to be made of fur. For a moment Pinkie spared a thought for Fluttershy, but such concern was drowned out as her breath caught in her throat and she let out a quiet, frightened squeak.
He was there. The alien king, or whatever he was, advanced at the head of the pack. Four metal snakes sprouted from his armour and coiled around him, hissing and spitting the occasional gout of purple flame into the air, and with every other footfall the metallic smack of the butt of his spiked axe tapped out his pace on the marble floor. For a moment his eyes met hers, and Pinkie felt her throat tightening as it had done when he had wrapped his claws around it. Nearby, Pinkie heard Twilight beginning to hyperventilate; she desperately wanted to go and help, but fear and an unPinkie-like anger kept her rooted to the spot.
They stopped about halfway through the hall, the crowds of Ponies parting to let them through. Lorkhan-she remembered that that was his name-stared at Princess Celestia mutely. She stared back, and although it was hard to tell Pinkie thought she saw a tremor of fear on her face. The Iron Warrior was the one to break the eye contact, turning to examine one of the stained glass windows that decorated the ballroom. The closest was also the most recent-Spike destroying King Sombra with the Crystal Heart, and the red glow from Lorkhan's eyes mixed with the crimson surrounding the fallen Unicorn.
"We didn't have much in the way of art on Olympia." He said at last, still not taking his eyes off the painting. "Unlike Fulgrim's peacocks, we were never very good at it...unless you count math and artillery bombardments as art, I suppose. The Primarch placed dogged adherence to a policy of war above all else-he thought art was an unnecessary distraction, that it encouraged sentimentality."
"The irony is, Father was one of the most honourable warriors I ever knew, and had a great love for mathematical learning and architectural pursuits." Finally, he looked at Celestia. His voice was still a threatening monotone. "Of course, being forced to tear down everything we came across instead of ever building, and never with any thanks or recognition for it, stunted our artistic growth. The rest of mankind seemed to agree, because only one painting of us was ever made...and that was less than flattering."
Pinkie wasn't sure why he was telling them all this, and from the looks on their faces neither was anypony else, least of all the Princess. She stammered, for once at a complete loss for words. Lorkhan seemingly took that as permission to continue.
"We didn't get any tickets. It was actually Rorke that told us this was happening at all, and we were already out tonight." He nodded at Fluttershy. "We added more to your home, by the way. You have a moat now, and we addressed a weak point at the southern tower." The Pegasus looked stunned, before edging back into the mass of pony body's. Pinkie Pie scowled at the aliens.
Finally, Celestia found her voice. "Well, you're certainly very welcome to stay, provided you behave yourselves. Although, you seem to be missing part of your command structure..." she trailed off, raising a hoof in the air and shaking it to and fro. Lorkhan stared at it for a moment, helmet blank as ever.
"Oh. You mean Zuko. He's...Barbus, where is Zuko? I told him to be here." He turned to look at one of his kin behind him, a cloaked warrior with a top hat dangling from the tip of a horn. Barbus shrugged.
"Damned if I know. Wouldn't tell me, although he didn't sound happy about it." ***
"And then Fulgrim cut Ferrus Manus' head off, and the Salamanders and Corax's pigeons all died, and we won the war and the Legion certainly never got into the state it is. The end."
He was met by three disbelieving gaze tucked up together in the bed in front of him. Zuko had told them plainly that bedtime story telling was not one of his talents, but they'd insisted.
"Did...any of that actually happen?" Scootaloo asked.
"Ferrus lost his head." Zuko confirmed. He rose from the chair that had been barely supporting his weight, pulling his red cloak tighter around him. He was almost out the door when Sweetie's voice chimed up.
"Wait, what's the difference between an Iron Hand and an Iron Warrior?"
"Never ask me that again." Zuko replied flatly, not stopping. She was quiet for a whole second.
"But couldn't Ferrus have waited for backup or something? Why did he charge in alone?"
This time Zuko did stop. He cast the Crusaders a sidelong glance.
"Because he was an idiot. Go to sleep."
He slammed the door before they could talk, and went to get a cigar. ***
"Anyway, he's not here." Lorkhan said. Any further exposition was lost as something caught his eye. He walked over to a serving pony, examining the plate he held.
"What's that?" the alien asked, pointing at one of the glasses. The pony was visibly quivering.
"M-m-mulled wine, your Iron Warriorship." Lorkhan grunted, before lifting a glass with surprising delicacy. Handing it to one of the others to hold, he placed a hand either side of his helmet and pulled. A hiss filled the room.
Pinkie, and everyone else, gasped.
Over half Lorkhan's face was replaced with metal, one of his eyes glowing as red as his helmet's. However, it was his flesh that drew the onlookers; what remained of his real face was marked by a huge scar that narrowly missed his eye and bisected his nose and lips. The edges of the cut were red raw, and the wound itself seemed to have an ice blue tinge to it. Lorkhan noticed the attention.
"A wolf bit me." He explained. "Left a scar, but ended up savaging itself too by accident. It was his own fault really; he was the one that wanted single combat."
It didn't look like any Timberwolf wound Pinkie had seen before, but she kept quiet on that. Rainbow Dash didn't.
"I find it hard to believe that YOU fought with honour." Lorkhan nodded.
"No, I didn't." he agreed, reaching into one of the pouches on his belt. He produced something small, hanging it from his fingers. Pinkie had to squint to see it, but it looked like a necklace threaded with canine teeth carved with strange symbols. Lorkhan jutted his chin at the pendant. "He did."
For a moment, Pinkie thought he was going to crush the object in his hands, but after a delay he placed it back in the pouch with almost reverential care. Taking the wine glass from his subordinate and downing the drink in a single swig, the Iron Warrior reattached his helmet. It was an improvement. No sooner had he done so he began to walk, his warriors in tow. The table they elected to sit at was the nearest one, and Pinkie's eyes widened as she realised it was Filthy Rich's private booth; completely ignoring his protests the Iron Warriors took their seats around him, with the exceptions of the big guy who couldn't sit, and Barbus-who coughed almost guiltily and elected to lean on a nearby wall.
It soon became clear they had no intention of leaving, although no visible conversation passed between them as they stared at the ponies. Eventually, the party began to kick up again, though the band was more subdued and the dancing less vigorous. And in the midst of it all, only Pinkie seemed to notice the one Iron Warrior clutching at his head.
It was twenty minutes before one of his brothers came to bother Barbus. He'd expected that. What he hadn't expected was the source.
The crowds parted like a tide as Vortun lumbered his way across the ballroom floor. The Obliterator moved at a steady pace, but didn't slow-more than once one of the Xenos had to dive away to avoid his footfalls. Recessed deeply in the fleshy folds at the centre of his armour, two dark, mismatched and piggish eyes stared out at Barbus. The Iron Warrior shifted uncomfortably. It wasn't that he disliked Vortun, far from it; like many of the IV Legion he was in awe of the creature's communion with the Powers that Be, even if he'd never really seen the need for said powers. It was just something in the Obliterator's overall manner that set him on edge.
His suspicions were confirmed when Vortun reached him. "You vill come vith me." He growled without preamble. Barbus watched him incredulously, folding his arms.
"I'm not taking you to the toilet." He said at last. Vortun grunted in what Barbus gathered was the closest he could manage to a laugh, but the ever-mutating face's underlying expression didn't change.
"Zat vill not be nessercary. Come."
"And if I don't?"
"Zen I vill shoot you, yah?"
"Fair enough." The Iron Warrior pushed himself off the wall, unfolding his arms only to pull the fur cloak tighter around his shoulders before returning to their contemptuous pose. Vortun took that as a yes and began to retrace his steps, displacing the teeming throngs of Ponies that had only just refilled the gaps he had made. Barbus followed in his wake, relishing how the way the Xenos slunk back under his gaze more than a little.
For a terrible moment, it seemed that Vortun was intent on dragging Barbus onto the dancefloor. The Iron Warrior's hands instinctively fell to his bolter, wondering whether he could get a convincing headshot in before the Obliterator killed him in any one of numerous unpleasant ways. But the Gods smiled on him for once, and Vortun did not stop, instead continuing to push his way through the crowds until they came across a specific pony. Barbus raised his one remaining eyebrow within his helmet.
The dress was certainly a surprise, as was the radical redesign to the hat, but Barbus instantly recognised her. Applejack's face paled somewhat as the pair approached her, but the combined gaze of two Chaos Space Marines-one of whom was as much daemon as man-kept her rooted to the spot. They'd managed to catch her when she was pretty much alone, and Vortun wasted no time taking his chance.
"You vill help us." It seemed to Barbus that Vortun really wasn't in the mood for idle chatter tonight. She looked even more taken aback, but quickly recovered.
"And just wah would ah do a thing lahk that, do y'all reckon?" she spat, eyes narrowing. "Shoot, ah don't even which two you purport tah be...or what, in your case."
Vortun's sigh was the sound of two mountains crashing together. Barbus kept silent, just as lost as the Xenos as to where Vortun was going with this.
"Mein name ist Vortun." He explained, slowly. "Ich bin ein Obliterator. Zis is mein bruder, Barbus. He is...ein wahnsinniger."
Barbus had no idea what Vortun had just said, but accepted it was probably an insult. He stared at her, and she stared back.
"You vill help us," Vortun went on, "because frau Sparkle told me zat you are an embodiment of honesty."
"T...Twalaght told y'all that?" For a moment Applejack's defences cracked, confusion setting in on her face. When she did come back round it was with considerably less gusto. "Well, there's no shame in admittin' it, ah trah never tah tell a lah to nopony."
"Zat is commendable." Vortun admitted. Barbus finished the rest in his head; commendable, but stupid. "So you vill answer mein question truthfully, yah?"
"Depends what y'all wanna know." She retorted. Vortun looked down at her for a moment.
"Are you attempting to poisoning us?"
That got her going. Applejack's face changed from paling to an incandescent red, and when she spoke it was little more than a splutter.
"What the...how...wah, of all the dirty rotten nerve! Y'all barge in here, disturb our party and now you accuse us honest, hard-working ponyfolk of-"
"We weren't accusing." Barbus decided it was time to step in. "We were asking." Again, he reached for his bolter. "Would you like me to accuse, Xenos?"
Applejack understood the implication, but was smart enough not to respond. She took a step back, turning away from the Astartes and taking a deep breath. "Nah, we ain't poisonin' yah, not that ah know of anyway." She seemed to think it over for a moment, eyeing the pair suspiciously. "Wah are y'all askin', anyhow?"
Vortun didn't smile, or react in any way before pointing over her shoulder to begin with. Both Applejack and Barbus followed his finger. "Because I vant to know vat is wrong with him."
Mordecai.
Now that Vortun mentioned it, it occurred to Barbus that the Sorcerer had been acting peculiarly tonight. Lorkhan slinking off to drink by himself in the corner and Rorke practically flipping a table and going into major convulsion half way through the evening had been expected, but all had thought Mordecai would be thoroughly in his element here. And yet, first off he had been complaining of a headache whilst they were arriving, and it seemed to have gotten worse as the night went on. He was as polite and affable as ever, of course, but generally seemed more pained, tired and...irritable?
Barbus had never seen Mordecai irritable before. Unlike many of his brothers, he didn't hate the Psyker. Trust was a different matter of course, but magical support had saved Barbus' arse more than once and anyway, Mord had been way back in the Crusade like the rest of them. It was difficult to imagine life without his presence. He'd been spending more than a little time with the Xenos since they'd arrived, and that piqued Barbus' curiosity. But judging from the way he had been dragged by a white one with purple hair and a completely overdone dress to come and meet some of what Barbus assumed was Equestrian 'high society', it seemed to have been played against the sorcerer.
HE was clutching one side of his helmet as the white pony and her fellows prattled on endlessly around him, for once silent unless it was to chuckle politely or respond to a question. None of them seemed to mind, although Barbus noticed that some did still cast nervous glances in his direction. Something akin to pity came over the Iron Warrior; he was a self-serving creature, and proud of it, but Mordecai was clearly suffering here. Before he could go to his brother's rescue, however, he was interrupted by another.
"Well well, if it isn't miss Rarity."
Rarity-for that, it seemed, was the white ponies' name, and now Barbus recognised her-turned a similar angry shade of red as Applejack as she heard the voice. She seemed to be having trouble staying composed, and turning was a slow, deliberate action. When she spoke Barbus realised why Mordecai liked her so much; they both believed in manners above all.
"Prince Blueblood, what a ...surprise." She said through clenched teeth. The stallion-a creature with a white coat, black tuxedo, golden hair and a visible aura of arrogance-smiled smugly as he approached. The other Xenos elites began to chatter excitably, but Rarity and Mord simply watched him.
"So I see you came back." The 'Prince' went on. "Understandable, not many mares can stay away for long. Well, I suppose I forgive you for your outrageous behaviour last year, if I must, but don't expect me to be as courteous again." His gaze shifted to Mordecai, but the smile didn't drop. Barbus focused, Astartes hearing picking up every word. "Ah, and you here must be one of the infamous Iron Warriors."
Quite correct, good sir." Mordecai said, though his voice was strained. Blueblood appeared not to notice.
"Well, you are quite formidable, aren't you? Although I must say-bad show on just barging in like that, terribly uncouth."
"I humbly apologise, my good sir, though I confess it was difficult to conceive any other method of gaining entry." Something subtle had changed in Mordecai's voice, although Barbus couldn't tell what it was. The wince was obvious enough that.
"Yes yes, well, I guess dull brutes such as yourselves may have difficulty adjusting to such basic common courtesies." Blueblood yammered on. Rarity took an affronted gasp, and Barbus bristled. He didn't give a shit whether the Ponies thought he was a brute or not, but an insult to the face of one Iron Warrior like that was an insult to them all.
Mordecai, all smiles, pretended to pay no mind. "Oh, I must disagree there. You see, our methods are merely unlike yours-"
"Well of course you would think that, wouldn't you? From what I gather you and your alien friends have been cooped up together for so long, you know little more than how to thump each other with sticks. Still, it's hardly surprising I suppose. It seems all your Legion is as mindless as your merry band. Still," Blueblood levitated a wine glass from a nearby tray, sipping it thoughtfully. "Perhaps interaction with civilised folk will help you amend your barbarous ways."
Barbus was halfway through pulling his gun when it happened. Mordecai's hand-which before had been held perfectly still-shot out like an iron viper, striking the pony's glass from the air. It shattered on the floor with a considerable crash, and finally Blueblood recoiled, as if what he had said was finally sinking in.
Until his last moment, one of the wonders of Barbus' life was how Mordecai's voice kept its refined tone even as he was exploding.
"I SAY, WHAT THE DEVIL DID YOU JUST AUDACIOUSLY PRCLAIM ABOUT OUR WELL-BEING? I SHALL INFORM YOU THAT I HAVE GRADUATED TOP OF MY CLASS AT NUMEROUS OLYMPIAN MILITARY COLLEGES AS WELL AS POSSESSING AN EXEMPLORARY RECORD IN THE ASTARTES TRAINING PROGRAM, AND HAVE BEEN ENGAGED IN NUMEROUS ALTERCATIONS WITH THOSE RUFFIANS NATIVE TO OTHER LEGIONS. MIGHT I ALSO ADD THAT ABOARD OUR SHIP I HAVE ACCUMULATED THREE HUNDRED PIECES OF ANTIQUE, EARLY IMPERIUM FURNITURE? I AM SELF-EDUCATED IN FINE DINING AND HIGH CLASS CATERING, AND AM THE TOP AUTHORITY UPON DIPLOMATIC CONVENTION IN THE ENTIRE FOURTH LEGION. YOU ARE NAUGHT TO ME BUT A SIMPLE, UNCOUTH BRUTE, AND I SHALL EMBARRASS THE DICKENS OUT OF YOU WITH CLASS THE LIKES OF WHICH HAS NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE UPON THIS HUMBLE PLANET, I DO SOLEMNLY PROMISE. YOU ASSUME YOU CAN DISRESPECT MINE AND MY BROTHER'S IMAGE SO WILLY-NILLY? THINK AGAIN, SAVAGE. AS WE SPEAK I AM ALREADY PLANNING TO ARRANGE A BRUNCH TOGETHER AT THE FINEST ESTABLISHMENT IN TOWN, SO YOU HAD BETTER PRPARE A FETCHING ENOUGH OUTFIT TO MATCH MY IMMACULATE ATTIRE. THIS SHALL BE THE BRUNCH THAT SENDS YOU PACKING BACK TO THE SLUMS; YOU ARE INEVITABLY DEFEATED, XENOS. I CAN BE BOOKED FOR ANY APPOINTMENT AT ANY HOUR, AND CAN EDUCATE YOU IN OVER SEVEN HUNDRED GALACTIC CULTURES, AND THAT IS ONLY WITH THE LITERARY SELECTION I KEEP IN MY CHAMBERS. NOT ONLY AM I EXTENSIVELY PROFFICIENT IN THE PSYCHIC ARTS, I HAVE ACCESS TO SEVERAL SUITS OF ENHANCED POWER ARMOUR AND SHALL FLAUNT THEIR FINELY ARTIFICED MASTERY TO OUTSHINE YOUR DRAB, COMMON APPEARANCE OFF THE FACE OF EQUESTRIA YOU SLOB. IF ONLY YOU HAD FORSEEN THE COMEUPPANCE YOUR 'INSIGNIFICANT' COMMENTS WERE BOUND TO EARN YOU, PERHAPS YOU WOULD HAVE TEMPERED YOUR WORDS. BUT YOU INSISTED, AND NOW I SHALL TEACH YOU MANNERS AND GRACE AND YOU WILL LEARN DIGNITY AND POISE YET.
CONSIDER YOURSELF IN ETTIQUETTE SCHOOL...PEASANT."
For the second time that night silence descended on the hall. Rarity's mouth hung upon limply, and it took Mordecai several minutes to stop breathing harshly, clear his throat and return to his usual demeanour. Blueblood had retreated entirely inward; of the arrogant lordling, nothing could be seen in the quivering wreck that trembled before the sorcerer. Barbus broke out in furious applause, but quickly trailed off when not even his brothers joined in. The Iron Warriors, like the ponies, stared at the Psyker in abject shock.
Mordecai seemed to know when he was beaten. With another awkward cough, he nodded apologetically to Lorkhan, then the Princess, before turning to storm out through the door they'd entered from. Rarity was after him moments later, calling his name seemingly in vain.
When they had left, and the sound of their steps had faded from earshot, all eyes turned to look at Lorkhan. The Warsmith hadn't taken his helmet off again, and instead chose to recline lazily in the booth the Astartes had 'borrowed'. Nonetheless, he seemed to meet everyone's gaze as they stared at him.
"I'm not even angry." He admitted, finally. "I'm impressed."
He made it as far as the sculpture garden before she caught up with him.
"Mordecai, darling, please wait."
It was pointless trying to run any further. And anyway, Space Marines did not run, even the corrupted and utterly self-serving ones. Mordecai halted, practically ripping his helmet from his head and casting it to the ground. As he did, all the branches on the nearest tree snapped clean in half as a wild burst of telekinetic force lashed out. Rarity drew back nervously, but regained her nerve.
She looked at him with concern evident in her eyes, and he looked down at her whilst forcing the pain down. The mental rotes he dimly recalled from his induction into the Legion's libraries helped where pacts with the Dark Gods had not, but the rush of pain to his head was still nearly blinding.
"I...apologise." He managed to stammer. "I should not have snapped. That was not...that was not cordial of me."
"Oh pish posh, I shall not hear it. Blueblood is an absolute ogre and it was high time someone gave him a stern talking to." Rarity comforted. She rested a hoof on his leg. "But that was not like you at all."
"It may well be." There was almost anger in his voice. "How would you know what we are? Are why did you follow me? Are you not scared of us?"
"Everyone is scared of you, darling." She said with a sympathetic smile. "But you are certainly nowhere near as bad as the rest of your compatriots. Now then, are you alright?"
No, he wanted to say, No I am not. Ever since they had arrived on this world manifesting his powers had been difficult. It was almost as if the 'Magic of Friendship' that had been vaguely described was a tangible force; insulating this world from the worst of the other Realm's effects. Yet here, in the castle, the...the Warp seemed to rage more freely. He knew he had felt something when they had been brought here in custody, but the demands of the situation at hand had meant he'd been able to ignore the headache. Now the sudden contact with the Realm of Chaos, and flooding of the Warp's tides back into him, felt like they were burning out his insides. As a followed of Chaos Mordecai had expected such a reunion to be almost blissful, but it was far from it. He swallowed.
"It is nothing, my dear. Merely-"
"It is not nothing." Rarity put in, sharply. Mordecai had nearly no memory of his mother, but something in the pony's tone told him she must have been like Rarity. Nevertheless, this wasn't a line of discussion he wanted to pursue with the one creature he could perhaps call his friend.
"These sculptures are certainly most impressive." He said, changing the subject. That actually wasn't a lie; Mordecai was impressed with many of the art pieces here. Tiny winged Pegasi and studious looking Unicorns were all around the garden, some secreted in fountains or at the centre of elegantly fashioned mazes. Rarity sighed, maybe realising she wasn't going to draw an answer from him tonight, and gestured an invitation to walk with her.
They walked gently and in silence, and it felt for a moment that Mordecai was indeed feeling better. When they reached the fifth statue, however, their walk came to an abrupt halt. Here it felt like the Warp had practically sliced the mortal world in twain, opening a rift into the realms beyond, and that Mordecai would explode from either daemonic intervention or simple psychic overload. Though his vision swam and doubled, he forced himself to look at the statue. And it was marvellous, though much more...confused than many he'd seen so far. Even the pose was odd, and where many of the other sculptures were crafted from flawless marble this one was cracked and almost warm to the touch.
Rarity looked halfway between anger and confusion. "I...I though the Princess had moved it out of the public eye." Mordecai watched her, the perplexed shoe now firmly on the other foot. "Oh come now, surely it can't be that bad. It's just a little weatherworn, is all." He said through gritted teeth as he knelt down to read the name plaque. It was dusty, and he had to wipe some of it away to get a good look.
"Discord; Draconequus, deposed tyrant of Equestria, God of..."
"Oh my." |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | And Up She Rises | It wasn't a trench, but it felt like one. In fact, Zuko wished it were; he liked trenches. He'd spent half his bloody life down them. Trenches were...easy.
Every footfall on the snow sent his boot deep into the ice sheets, the crunch eerily reminiscent of splintering bone. It wasn't long before all of his lower legs had their silver plate covered in white, and the constant snowfall gave much of his top half the same effect. In the dull light, and with the stained white coating, he looked more like the Death Guard once had than an Iron Warrior. Only his eyes gaze him the appearance of being anything other than a twisted snowman come to life; glowing raw and red, their optical beams piercing the gloom.
His old and battered suit of Power Armour was heated enough to make Zuko feel no discomfort from the punishing elements, but even so, he pulled the red cloak the Xenos had made him a little closer, taking care not to rip the edges. He may not have wanted it, but it did help warm him a little and keep his mind sufficiently focused. That, and if he took it with him there was no chance of his brothers finding it.
As he trudged through the deep snow banks, Zuko took a moment to consider the seemingly insane physics and climate of the world they'd now spent the last two or so months on. Less than half a day's march past, he'd been in the idyllic and temperate surroundings of Ponyville. They'd had a bloody forest on the outskirts, for damn's sake. When he'd set off north he'd prepared a travel plan that would take him several weeks, not expecting to reach any serious impeding weather until he was on the far side of the mountains. That had been the plan, but of course, Equestria hadn't been paying attention.
Despite making sure to follow the train line that headed north, or at least keep it in view, no sooner had he set foot in the mountainous regions had everything taken a turn for the worst. The vegetation had died almost instantly, and had he not thought to bring some branches he'd found earlier along-just in case-there was a very real chance of being stranded without supplies of any kind. Even with his power armour senses and Marine physiology, it was hard to see more than a few feet in front of him, and he'd lost count of the amount of times his plasma pistol had almost become frozen in its holster. It was for that reason he'd chosen to keep his power fist on, and the crackling electrical field surrounding the talons turned any snow that hit it into fine droplets of steaming water.
In a world where the Pegasi seemingly had virtually unlimited control over the weather, bar the Everfree, Zuko wondered why they bothered taking the time to produce these snowstorms at all. Scientifically speaking, he knew it had to be deposited somewhere. Just...not here, would be useful. It was colder than a Space Wolf's smile here.
He stopped, crouching and hoping the steadily increasing wind didn't rip the cloak from his shoulders. The snow hat had already begun to coalesce on him made him almost invisible in the bleak wilderness. Slowly, he reached down and drew the serrated combat knife from his belt with his free hand, flipping it to hold it ready. Other than unsheathing his blade, he didn't move.
Something pattered on the snow. The sound of tiny little feet padded through the snow, the skittering of some multi-legged beast. The Iron Warrior didn't turn, not wanting to make the first move, but silently he weighed up his options. Mordecai's...revelation a few nights ago had changed the game, and forced Zuko to consider that maybe they weren't as far from the Warp as he'd of liked. But from wolves made of wood to shape-shifting bug daemons, he wouldn't put it past this insane planet to harbour a few eldritch abominations of its own. The Plasma Pistol might have been a better bet, but it was slow to fire and he didn't want to attract any more of whatever it was that could be hidden in the snow. He closed his eyes, relaxing his muscles and letting his hypno-conditioned battle routines take over. An idea took hold. He tilted the knife gripped in his hand, angling it towards any light he could find. If he could reflect the sun off it he might be able to provoke it and launch a counter-attack, or at least get a better view of what it was from the blade's polished steel. The knife glinted. He heard a sharp intake of breath, and steeled himself to face down a monster vomited from the hells.
"Ohmigosh, you have a sword too? That's so awesome!"
For the first time since walking into the snowstorm, Zuko really froze. It wasn't a monster. It was worse.
"Oh no." He muttered, and for a moment his stony demeanour cracked. "Not you."
Spike nearly fell over his own clawed feet as he sprinted towards the door, the frenetic knocking spurring him to quicken his pace. Blood gushing to his head with the exercise, he reached the door and flung it open, pausing only to catch his breath.
Three Ponies stood in the doorway, each with an equally concerned expression. Apropos of nothing they dashed in, the closest to Spike stopping to look at him with large green eyes. They were determined and strong, bt the baby dragon thought he also saw an undercurrent of fear nestled deep within them.
"Rainbow came an' found me an' Pinkie right away." Applejack said, adjusting her trademark hat slightly. "She still here?" Spike nodded, forcing down the tears that were slowly welling up at the corner of his eyes and pointed at the green door just down the stairs that marked the entrance to Twilight's study and laboratory. Applejack nodded grimly in thanks, before galloping to join her two friends. Rainbow was hammering on the door with a hoof, whilst Pinkie was desperately and fruitlessly trying the lock. Spike followed behind AJ, but he knew from experience it was locked.
"Open up Twilight!" Rainbow shouted in, ceasing her knocking only a moment. It was voiced as a threat, but even though Spike didn't know many of Twilight's friends as well as he would like-especially Rarity-he knew when Rainbow was worried. The voice that called back seemingly didn't.
"No! Go away, leave me alone!"
It was muffled by the door, but it didn't sound at all like the Twilight Spike knew and loved. It was scratchy and discordant, halfway between hysteria and sobbing. It'd been much the same since he'd had brought Twily home from the Grand Galloping gala two days ago; or rather dragged her, as the unicorn seemed to be trapped in some state of shock. Almost as soon as they'd got back she'd locked herself away and refused to see anyone, even him. Twilight's lone vigils were unsettling enough, but the near-total break down the Iron Warriors had unwittingly induced by their arrival had made Spike even more frightened for his surrogate sister's mental health. Events over the next few days had forced his hand and made him call in her friends.
"Oh please please please let us in Twilight!" Pinkie practically wailed, resting her forehead on the wooden door. "I promise I won't be hyperactive or anything! I just want my bestest friend back!" Surprisingly, Spike found he believed her; her mane had certainly deflated somewhat. The last time he'd seen her like that it'd been scary. Now it was sad.
No answer was immediately forthcoming, so the mares seemingly took matters into their own hands. Pinkie and Rainbow drew back, coming in line with AJ who'd positioned herself ready to buck the door. Her hind leg muscles were taught, as were those in Dashie's wings as she tensed them in readiness. Spike couldn't watch, trying his hardest to stop the tears.
"You asked for it, Twi." He heard Rainbow grumble.
They moved as one, AJ lashing out with her toned back legs as Rainbow and Pinkie sprung forward. Locked as it was, the door never stood a chance, the combined weight of three adult ponies too much for it to bear. It was practically flung off its hinges, and they travelled with it, landing in a heap on...something. From the way it squirmed and screamed, Twilight had a pretty good idea what-or who-it was.
He was about to rush to Twilight's side when something unconscious made him stop. He looked around the room, taking a deep breath as his reptilian eyes widened. Despite the fact that it was for all intents and purposes a cellar, he'd always known Twilight's lab to be well lit and almost inviting. Now it seemed all the light had been sucked out, save the dim glow of a few shimmering candles strewn hither and tither. The masses of industrial scientific equipment that had been crammed in when they'd been experimenting on the 'Obliterator' were gone, replaced by old, half rotten tables. A coat-stand that Twilight had somehow managed to drag in leaning on a far wall, as well as other more 'arcane' pieces of apparatus. Books of every shape and size were scattered all over the tables and the floor, some closed, some open and in the midst of study. Spike knew pretty much every book in the library and where to file it, but he'd never seen these before; they made him uncomfortable, some seeming to radiate a malicious intent from words that almost flowed over the pages. He wondered where she'd got them from. Nevertheless, what drew the young dragon's attention the most was the symbols drew over the wall. Some were mathematical or standard magical procedure, yet there was one repeated sign that gave Spike pause. It was a flowing, almost fishlike shape, and despite the fact that they were drew with nothing more than black chalk the edges almost looked like they flickered and writhed with half-glimpsed flame. A circle that looked worryingly like an eye stared out, watching his every move and privy to his innermost secrets and desires. Spike suddenly felt very vulnerable.
Applejack, Pinkie and Rainbow Dash didn't seem to notice their unsettling confines. They focused on keeping their weight on the door, keeping the purple shape underneath pinned. Twilight stared angrily at him as he shuffled over to them, and the fury in her eyes broke the infant's heart.
"Twahlahgt, Sugacube, please calm down." Applejack said in a measured, serious tone. "We're here ta help."
"You can't help." The Unicorn spat back. The intrusion had seemingly left her manic. "You can't help, no one can help. Just leave me alone."
"Tw-twily, do you even know what you're saying?" Pinkie screamed, glistening tears streaming down her face. "We're your friends, of course we can help!" She smiled, but it was clearly forced.
"Friends won't stop them. They don't share them. Friends can't stop them, we didn't stop them, only I can stop them, but I have to know how!" Twilight's voice rose from a mutter to a shout, spittle flying into AJ's face. The Unicorn thrashed, but bizarrely hadn't let off any magic yet. Perhaps she was simply too distraught.
"Oh come on Egghead." Rainbow Dash said, voice strained with the effort of holding her friend down. "Don't make me agree with Pinkie here, are you listening to yourself?" She lowered her face, her stony glare scant centimetres from Twilight's frenzied expression. "This doesn't sound like the Pony the Princess trusted to write friendship reports."
The words seemed to penetrate her fevered mind, because the anger instantly drained from her eyes and she became Twilight again. The Unicorn's body went limp as she rested her head back, eyes closed in an attempt to mask the sobbing that now came freely from her throat. Her friends responded in kind, relaxing and dragging the door off her. No sooner had they done it then Twilight sprang up, flinging both hooves around Applejack's neck and drawing her in to a tight hug as she sobbed. AJ flinched warily, but soon loosened, returning the embrace. They all did, flinging forelegs and claws around the wounded Unicorn.
"The...t-the Princess..." Twilight managed between sniffles. "She said they wouldn't come...said...said she could deal with them. But she can't, no one can...they just marched right into the bucking Gala, and nopony did anything!" she wailed, her sobs increasing in vigour. AJ patted her back tenderly.
"It's okay sugacube." She said in an uncharacteristically gentle, almost maternal voice. "T'tell the truth, ah was scared too. As scared as ah I was when they first showed up, y'all remember?" Spike gripped Twilight tighter; he remembered. "But shoot, they didn't really do nothin'. They might not be very nahce, but they have been well behaved."
"Yeah!" Rainbow Dash said optimistically. "Plus, that wizard guy going mad at Blueblood was pretty funny." Pinkie nodded enthusiastically, with a real smile this time.
"But what if they hadn't?" Twilight asked through her tears, fixing her friends with puffy red eyes. "What if someone needed to stop them? They've got all the advantages. I thought...I just needed the knowledge. I need to know, I just really need to know girls. Because what..." her voice dropped to barely a frightened whisper. "...what if the Princess' made the wrong decision?"
The implications of Twilight thinking this were concerning, and AJ cuddled her tighter.
"Now y'all know that's rotten talk, hun." The farm pony said soothingly. "Princess Celestia knows what she's doin'. And even if she didn't, ah promise we'll all be hear ta help yah defend Ponyville."
Twilight's eyes were practically pleading. "Pr-promise?"
"Promise!" The Mares answered in unison. Twilight sighed, hugging her friends again and finally smiling. Finally she turned to look at Spike, smiling wearily.
"Spike, could you fetch me something from the library?" she asked. "Something light, I've had enough excitement for one week."
His grin froze on his face, and suddenly Spike felt very pale. He turned to look at the floor, shifting slightly as he planned his words, well aware of four pairs of eyes on him.
"But that's the thing Twilight." He began, looking up at them and pointing back into the library. They looked past him, squinting in confusion before finally seeing. "Half the books are gone."
"Okay, what about Curze versus Lorgar?"
Barbus rolled his eyes as the Iron Warrior's voice came over the vox, and chose to focus more on his footwork. Blackened leaves and fallen twigs crunched underfoot as he and his two brothers picked his way along; remnants of the warband's previous excursion here.
It was certainly quieter in the Everfree than before. Perhaps the fire had killed most of the fauna, or they'd come to fear them. Barbus hoped for the latter. The trees had grown back at an astonishing rate, still cramped close around them, but there was evidence of flame everywhere they went. That made him happy; it felt like they'd actually made a mark on something.
"First," he voxed back grudgingly. "Don't say those names out loud. Best not tempt fate. Second, discussing who would win in an X versus Y fight is idiotic if you're only considering power levels in a vacuum."
"Fine." His brother grunted. "Open arena, say approximately 150 metres diameter. No help, fight on foot, they can bring their armour and one weapon."
"Middle of the day?"
"Yes."
"Then the Urizen."
"Okay," the other marine grunted. "How about...Manus versus Mortarion."
"Manus. Father aside, he's the only one as stubborn as the Death Lord was."
"Probably...Vulkan versus Alpharius?"
Barbus actually considered this for a moment, taking care to maintain his footing as he picked his way over rocks and streams. Eventually, his silence seemed to unnerve the other Astartes.
"Vulkan, right? It's got to be."
Barbus shook his head. "Alpharius. You said they could bring one weapon. He'd bring a vortex grenade." He moved swiftly to cut off any further discussion, put didn't turn back or slow down. "I'm not waiting for you, Varvillon."
He heard the other Iron Warrior rise from his crouch. Varvillon had been bringing up the year, seeming to stop every minute to look at some new species of plant he'd found. Barbus wouldn't have cared had the importance of speed not been stressed to him.
"It's interesting." Varvillon said, his voice distorted by his bionic jaw. From the sound of it he was completely oblivious to the reprimand, or at least choosing to be. "We are for all intents and purposes cut off from our galaxy, yet many of these plants are reminiscent of those that once grew at home-except here they thrive in the forest, and not the mountains."
"Yeah, fascinating." Barbus replied caustically. He was about to ask just why Varvillon had such a bizarre fascination with horticulture when they emerged into a clearing. Barbus blinked with his one good eye. He hadn't even been paying attention. Here the fire damage was most evident, masses of black husks that were once trees expanding out from the centre. Barbus strolled over to a nearby branch that had fallen, crouching beside it. He considered taking one of the equine bones crushed underneath it, but thought it a bit too macabre.
"What in the hells is that?" Varvillon asked, crouching besides Barbus. He shook his head.
"You don't want to know." He muttered. No sooner had he finished his sentence than howls sliced through the air, aggressive and piercing. The Iron Warriors reacted instantly, moving to fight back to back at the centre of the clearing whilst drawing bolters. Barbus shook his head.
"Blades." He ordered. "He wants them intact...more or less." With a grumble the other two put away their guns and drew their knives, holding them at the ready. Barbus grinned as the Timberwolves slunk out from the trees with glowing green eyes and slavering jaws, surrounding the three Astartes.
"Showtime."
Had Pipsqueak been old enough to really comprehend it, he might have reasoned that the innocence of childhood was truly a wonderful thing. He had not had to fret or worry about the coming of the aliens, nor had the events of the gala or burning of the Everfree caused him any distress. Oh, he knew OF them of course-who didn't-but they weren't an immediate problem for him.
He wasn't old enough to comprehend this of course, so instead he focused on catching the butterfly he'd been chasing for the last ten minutes. The creature almost shimmered before him, pink wings catching the sun light and refracting it in a way that made him want to giggle. It fluttered away from him, darting through a crowd of grown-up Ponies and round a building. Pip followed eagerly.
Soon, the butterfly led him further from town then he'd ever been before alone. It worried Pip subconsciously that he was here alone, but the need to catch this creature was overpowering to his infant mind. He stumbled onwards heedless, leaving the buildings behind him until he reached it.
The borders of the Everfree forest.
Fear finally overpowered wonder as the butterfly disappeared into the forests' depths, and Pip realised it was time to go home. He turned and began to trot, before long breaking into a gallop. Even as he ran, a curious sound reached his ears from behind a cluster of rocks just out of view of the town; the sound of something heaving and grunting, and of fire. Now curiosity replaced fear, and in spite of all sense Pip crept over to have a look.
His tiny lungs emitted a gasp as it came into view. Behind the rock was the largest pile of books he'd ever seen, even more than there were at the orphanage. They were thrown together uncaringly in a great heap, spines bent open and some pages torn. In front of the heap stood three giants, all with their backs to him. The bones hung from chains on their armour scared Pip, as did the yellow and black stripes, but they didn't seem to have noticed. One of them was flipping through the books at an astonishing rate, whilst the other stood in front of a smaller pile with a strange gun. The last, with a long sword strapped at its belt, was crouched down like an animal. It was this one that was responsible for the heavy breathing, and he jittered and shook with nervous spams every few seconds.
"Nothing." The one with the book growled. "Again." He tossed it roughly aside, landing it in the smaller heap. He snatched another from the largest pile, flicking through it rapidly. Pip wasn't sure how he was actually reading it, but evidently he was. "What exactly are we looking for anyway?"
"Maybe nothing." The one with the gun grunted. "I think the Champion just wanted to come and let off some steam, right Rorke?" he jerked a finger over his shoulder, indicating at something behind him. Pip squinted to see what it was. The pale, decapitated corpses of several animals that had no doubt wandered out from the Everfree formed a third heap, blood pooling on the ground around them. It made Pip want to be sick.
The one who crouched didn't get up, but shook a little harder. His helmet rose from where it had been tucked into his chest, and seemed to stare at the armed giant.
"Just get on with it."
The one with the gun shrugged, stepping back and aiming it at the pile on the ground. A huge gout of flame erupted from the gargoyle-mouthed nozzle, jetting out to envelop the pile of literature. In one fell swoop it was consumed, the other Iron Warrior moving to waft away the emergent smoke. Even at this distance the heat was intense, and Pip squealed in fear. He clamped a hoof over his mouth, but it was too late.
The crouching one spun like lightning, two red eyes focusing on Pip. The colt gasped and tried to run, but the alien was fast, lurching to his feet and crossing the gap in seconds. Pip tried to run but it was fruitless, as the giants' heavy boot slammed down onto his tail. Pip made to cry out, but a hand clamped over his mouth, stifling the scream.
A hand clamped round his neck and lifted Pip into the air, hooves kicking a she spluttered for air. What he saw made him feel even more ill. The giant with the sword's helmet was drenched in blood; it was dry, but red enough to assure some part of Pip's brain it was relatively fresh. His gauntlets were similarly stained, and all in all he looked more red and brass than iron.
Rorke studied the child for a moment. "He said we're not to get any of you involved." He said at last, almost regretfully. It didn't calm the struggling Pip down, and nor did Rorke leaning in even closer. All Pipsqueak could see were blood red eyes.
"Then again, Lorkhan isn't here."
The IV Legion, Mordecai mused, were a funny old lot. During his time as an Astartes he'd fought with most, if not quite all, of the other original Legions, and therefore was pretty qualified to say that-with the possible exceptions of Angron's World Eaters, or the Iron Hands, they were perhaps the most tactically inflexible of all the Legions. Father had complained that they had never been given the glories of other Legions, but when you went for raw strength above speed, stealth or anything else, it wasn't difficult to see why they'd been assigned to siege and garrison duty.
As it was, he abandoned all pretence of stealth as he made his way through the grounds of Canterlot castle. Night had long since fallen, shafts of moonlight rippling off his gleaming silver armour. He'd judged night to be the best time for this mission, but in truth is companion meant it probably wouldn't have mattered.
The Obliterator lumbered behind him, staring blankly and mutely forward. He was not much for conversation-Vortun always did the talking-but for once Mordecai was not dispensing with the pleasantries. He respected his brother's strength, but muscle was what he needed above companionship right now.
The sorcerer knew his run of luck wouldn't last, and sure enough, no sooner had they reached the gates marking the public entrance to the castle's sculpture gardens two brown, armoured Unicorns stepped out to block their progress. Last time he'd come this way, two days ago, there'd been no such guard, but he supposed the Gala meant security was more discreet. He kept his sword and axe at his side even as they lowered their spears, clasping his hands together in a gesture of civility.
"Good evening, sirs." He said chirpily. "Just popping out for a stroll in the gardens, what? Jolly nice night for it."
"No visitors at night." One of them said bluntly, impressively not wavering in the hold on his spear. "Especially not your kind." Mordecai made a pained expression that was utterly lost within the confines of his helmet, looking at the ground with a sigh. The Obliterator, predictably, said nothing.
"Most unfortunate, old sport." He said, almost apologetically. Before the guards even had time to raise their eyebrows he had flung both arms out to the side, fingers curling. The telekinetic force wrenched the two ponies off their hooves, their screams cut off by crushed necks and throats. They crumpled where they fell, and did not rise.
Mordecai rubbed his wrists sympathetically, cricking his neck and forcing the smile from his face. The headaches had long since abated, and it felt good to be in communion with the Ruinous Powers and able to marshal his full strength again. He turned his neck to look at the Obliterator, fingertips still tingling.
"If you please, dear brother."
With a grunt the blessed warrior lumbered forward, stooping down to easily grab both corpses and hold one in each hand. He plodded over to a nearby bush, stuffing both in without grace so they would just be invisible to a casual glance. It wouldn't fool anyone for long, and was sloppier than Mordecai would have liked, but speed not style was the name of the game here. By the time the Princess or any of the others realised what was happening, he should almost be done.
Once he was satisfied with their placement, Mordecai pressed on, the Obliterator following behind. Whether through luck or divine intervention they encountered no more guards, and before long had made it to the object of the sorcerer's desire. 'Discord' was much like Mordecai remembered him, and the Psyker took a moment to appreciate his discovery. He had convinced Rarity to tell him the story behind the statue-a deception he almost regretted, but was ultimately necessary-and it had only reaffirmed what he had to do. He stepped forth, resting a gauntleted palm on the cracked marble. A strange resonance flowed within, pushing back out, and Mordecai found himself curiously invigorated by the energies. Clearing his throat he took a step back, looking up to meet the statue's eyes. He had not noted the almost amused twinkle in them, combined with a malign intelligence.
"Quickly, now." He whispered as the Obliterator wrenched it from its plinth, resting it on a mutating shoulder. "Events move so very quickly, do they not?"
Rarity was, above all, a socialite. She adored high class events and fancy soirees were simply divine, but at the end of the day there was nothing she enjoyed more than relaxing with her five best friends. Studious Twilight, brash Rainbow Dash, eternally cheerful Pinkie Pie and yes, even stubborn old Applejack. Yet of all of them it was sweet little Fluttershy she loved the most; the demure creature was Rarity's most treasured companion, and it was with total honesty she admitted that the Pegasus was naturally more beautiful than she would ever be. It was small wonder she'd been chosen as a model.
Still, visiting her home made the Unicorn gulp.
Gone was the quaint cottage Fluttershy had lived in since Rarity had first met her. In its place stood a monstrous effigy of steel, all spiked battlements and demon-mouthed guns. Jagged things that were apparently called 'Tank traps' were aligned with deep trenches cut into the earth, and around the fortress was dug a deep moat. The great door was open, but the Unicorn had heard tales-of the giant helmeted skull carved onto it, leaving no doubt as to who had made it.
Beside her, Fluttershy trembled slightly. She'd been living in the fortress for a while now, but ever since the Iron Warriors had announced more 'renovations' she'd been living at Carousel Boutique. It had been...difficult sometimes for Rarity to accommodate her, but she wasn't about to leave her closest friend scared and alone, especially when the normally supportive Twilight had all but vanished. Rarity had tried to get some information out of Mordecai about what they'd done, but ever since the gala he'd been...preoccupied, almost. It made her uneasy, but at that moment she chose not to show it, instead choosing to be brave for Fluttershy.
"Well it doesn't look...too bad." She ventured, smiling weakly. The yellow Pegasus didn't buy it, trembling even harder. Placing a hoof on her back, Rarity took a deep breath, forcing down her own fear. Taking the initiative she stepped forward, trusting Fluttershy to follow. At first it was tentative, but the sound of hoofs padding behind her reassured rarity. Before long they'd negotiated the defences outside and made it onto the drawbridge. Ignoring the two colossal cannons that loomed from Fluttershy's battlements, the two Ponies walked into the dark.
Rarity was about to step inside proper when, to her surprise, an outstretched hoof stopped her. Fluttershy fixed her with a wide eyed gaze, slowly shaking her head. Tiptoeing over to a strange panel that extended from a metal wall, she placed a hoof squarely on the screen. Lights flashed, and before long a green glow had started bathed the two of them, mixed with an irritating beeping.
It didn't take long for Fluttershy to notice Rarity's confused expression. "They've got some kind of system that controls the weapons." She explained, quietly. "Only I or they can shut it off. If we'd gone inside we'd have been...well...shot..."
Rarity blinked. "And they....they expect you to live here?"
"Umm...they say it's for my own protection." came the shy response.
"How does it work? Magic?" she asked.
"No." Fluttershy answered from another room. "I think they took bits of their ship to make. That's what they've done with most of this."
Rarity grimaced, but knew that complaining wouldn't help. Instead she proceeded inside, mouth dropping open as she looked around. Fluttershy hadn't been lying-there really was no furniture, or at least very little. Besides guns and cold iron, there didn't seem to be much of anything. "This is just awful!" she exclaimed. "How can they expect you to live like this? It's so...so...drab!" No sooner had she said it, a thought struck her. "Although, I must admit it doesn't sound too different to what you described before."
"It is a bit different." Came the reply. Something in it made Rarity pause-the trepidation she was so used to from Fluttershy was gone, and replaced with...awe? Hurrying, she followed it to its source, to find Fluttershy staring in wonder at a part of the wall. Following her gaze, Rarity looked at what the Pegasus did, squinting slightly in bemusement.
A flash of wood broke up the constant grey of the metal. The corners were jagged and angular, and the roof had been clad in steel, but it was very definitely a bird house. The more Rarity looked at it, the more she got the impression of a child's drawing-it was as if whoever had made it knew what they were trying to achieve, but hadn't quite understood why and had instinctively fallen back to what they knew; in this case, fortification apparently. But that made no sense, because the only one who could have built it in that case must have been...
"What?" she tried. "I don't...how did?..." She looked over at Fluttershy for answers. Her friend didn't look back, eyes still fixed on the birdhouse. To Rarity's surprise, she was smiling; in fact, the vaguest hint of a tear formed in the corner of her eye.
"It's...nice."
A thought struck him.
"We had Titans once."
The only other occupant of what had once been the Command Bridge looked up at him with a singular lack of interest. Ever since arriving on this world, Vortun had not had much to do, and it was beginning to show. They'd already moved all flammable items out of range, but even so the Astartes were on high alert.
"Ve did." He confirmed, with the closest to a shrug he could manage.
Lorkhan leaned back in his throne, resting his chin on a fist. The Mechatendrils snaking from his back hovered in front of him, snapping idly at the air. Ever since the attack by the Raven Guard so long ago he'd hated this place-it had been the place where Warsmith Kargarra had died and selfishly thrust him into this job, for once-and ever since the crash it was even worse. Most of the consoles and the hololithic table in the centre didn't work, the lights were flickering at best, and in the crash his throne had been bent to a forty-five degree angle that forced him to sit in a lopsided manner. But it was secluded, and that's what he needed right now.
"Yes, we did." The Warsmith said redundantly. "Legio Mortis, right?"
"Dah."
"I remember. Dominus Ignis, the Reaver, and the Warhounds-"
"Lupus Rex, Lupus Ira and Lupus Nox. I know. Vat's ze point of zis?"
"Nothing really." He admitted. "Just...what happened to them?"
The Obliterator did what Lorkhan could only describe as an eye roll. "How should I know? Ze children of Magnus split ze ship in half when zay attacked, ze Titans are probably floating around in space with the rest of it."
"I guess you're right." Lorkhan admitted. He looked around with a sigh, tapping his fingers on his temple. His scar was hurting again, but he didn't like taking his helmet off at the best of time. "Are any of them back yet, and just haven't bothered to tell me." Vortun shook his head as best they could.
"Nein. Zuko's still headed north, and getting ze vulves intact vill prove a challenge to a dummkopf like Barbus. Rorke is as Rorke does, but Mordecai does have the statue." Lorkhan tensed at those last words, but only a fraction. The Obliterator still noticed. Vortun plodded over, eyeing him suspiciously. "You don't like ze plan, do you?"
"Of course I like the plan." Lorkhan snapped. "It's a good plan. I just don't like not having a backup." There was silent in the dark chamber for a moment as both super-humans considered this.
"Ve could always vait." Vortun said at last. Lorkhan shook his head.
"No. We're too far gone now...and isn't that just the story of our lives?" he grumbled. Vortun took a step forward, somehow managing to fold his arms.
"Ze game changed ven ve found out vat zey ver hiding, my lord." He said sternly. Now it was Lorkhan's turn to fix him with a look.
"I know, I know." There was a hint of melancholy in his voice now as Lorkhan made to get up. "I just don't like Chaos out of nowhere." He hopped down from the throne, grabbing his axe and making his way to one of the doors. "I'm going to the armoury." He said bluntly, not looking at Vortun as he passed. "When any of the others get back, contact me immediately."
"Of course." Vortun said. The Obliterator elected to hold his tongue until Lorkhan was nearly out the room. "It vas nice vat you did for Fluttershy, by ze vay."
Lorkhan's gaze was dark as the doors closed between them, but the Warsmith too was silent. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | OiM Special-Our Spiritual Liege | "Oh, and then Mr Lorkhan helped me to feed the baby bunnies and tuck them all in their snuggwy-wuggwy wittle beds. He was so helpful, I really don't know what I'd have done without him."
The Iron Warriors were many things to Twilight; cold, hard, mysterious, brutal, a little creepy. One thing they had never been, however, was easy to faze, and so it surprised her to see just how much Lorkhan could squirm in one place uncomfortably. Of course, she'd never had a real conversation with any of them - it was usually best to keep them at hooves' length, and it wasn't like they spoke much sense anyway - but even she could see that Fluttershy's glowing report was disturbing him more than any of the wars he'd told them about ever had.
Not that it was affecting anyone's judgement, though. The seven of them were cramped around a table in Sugarcube corner, and of them only Fluttershy's expression was truly benign. Lorkhan's, as it almost always was, remained locked behind his warped helmet, whilst Pinkie, Rainbow, Applejack, Rarity and Twilight's own were a mix of disbelief and scornful mistrust. Pinkie had sat as far away from the alien as possible, and point blank refused to make eye contact with any of them.
"Well, that's...wonderful darling." Rarity said with a brittle smile, ever the diplomat. "And I suppose it was generous of the Warsmith to agree to help you."
"Yes..." Twilight agreed, hoping to diffuse the situation slightly. "Thank you, Lorkhan."
The Iron Warrior didn't reply immediately, although he did turn to stare at Twilight. The corner of his helmet he'd fashioned into a skull grinned stupidly, like always.
"Kill me." He said at last.
Any further response was forestalled by the sound of the bakery's doors being practically ripped from their hinges, as seven huge shapes barged in. Ponies dropped their tea cups and backed away slowly, shaking, whilst Twilight and her friends drew up into a semi-circular ring. The intruders seemed not to notice.
"It's here!" a voice Twilight recognised as Rorke snarled. His words were directed at Lorkhan, who by this point had shot to his feet like a rocket and practically bludgeoned his way through the table.
"What's here?" he asked, and Twilight could tell he was grateful for the distraction.
"The new Space Marine codex." The one with the huge fist, Zuko, explained. "Mordecai pre-ordered it, it got here today." At the mention of his name Mordecai pushed his way through the throng and, with a courteous nod to Rarity, placed a book carefully on the table. Intrigued in spite of her better instincts, Twilight went in for a better look.
It was unlike any book she'd ever seen before. The pages were the size of the scrolls she wrote to Princess Celestia on, and the outer pages were bound in a much harder material than any in her library. On the cover was emblazoned, as Zuko had claimed, "Space Marines", and at the top was the word "codex" under an eagle with "Warhammer 40'000" written underneath it. Twilight new what a codex was - in essence, a reference book - but this one didn't look particularly scientific. The art on the cover was the most baffling thing. It was a blue, pointing figure who looked remarkably like the Iron Warriors, although with considerably less spikes and with a more, overall 'regal' bearing. Behind him on a banner with a...horseshoe on it? Rainbow's perplexed expression summed up Twilight's views on it to a tee.
"What is that?" she asked, standing on her hind hooves to get a better look.
"A poor copy-paste." Lorkhan grunted in return, not taking his eyes off it. "Who wrote it?"
"Cruddace." Zuko answered.
"So it'll have one build then." He sighed, before snatching it from the table and taking a seat. His seven brothers crowded around behind him, leaving the ponies on the periphery and utterly confused. Applejack leant in surreptitiously. "What the hay are they talkin' about, Twah? What're they building?" she hissed.
"I certainly hope they're not thinking of brutalising poor dear Fluttershy's home any further with any of this 'Crud-dace' substance." Rarity added haughtily. Twilight nodded, but said nothing.
"Well, let's have a look at the damage then." Lorkhan said, flipping the tome open on the table before him. The others leaned in closer. For what seemed close to ten minutes, Twilight and her friends could only watch as the Iron Warriors picked their way through the book in utter silence. They did not make a sound, and barely seemed to move.
Just before Twilight was about to inquire what whether they were alright, the Warsmith exploded into action. He rose in one swift motion, the other Chaos Marines stepping back as he flipped the table over whilst one of the snaking tendrils coiled around the book and hurled it across the shop floor. Twilight and the other elements dived for cover, all except Rainbow Dash who darted out of the way and balled her hooves angrily in response.
"THIS IS HORSESHIT."
Lorkhan's voice had gone worryingly high as he slammed his fists back into the wall. After a moment or two he seemed to calm his breathing, and looked over at Twilight. "No offence." He muttered, "But seriously." He stalked his way towards them, stooping down to grasp it from the ground and held it up to Rainbow. "In fact, would you mind actually going and shitting on this for me please?" Without waiting for an answer he paced back over to his brothers and sank into the seat with folded arms and a huff. "Utter horseshit." He repeated, mumbling it now.
"Oh come now old sport, surely it's not that bad?" Mordecai ventured, daring to edge forward.
"Not that bad?" Lorkhan practically spluttered, fixing him with the closest he could manage to an aghast stare. "It's downright appalling."
"Well, you have to admit it's better than Ward's wank-pile." Zuko ventured.
"Yeah, but at least Ward's fluff was comically bad." Lorkhan countered, wagging a finger. "This one isn't bad, it's just strange. Like Centurions, what the hell was going on there?"
"I assume because it's fluffy for that Chapter to have a siege specialist unit." Barbus put in. The other Iron Warriors seemed to twitch slightly (except Rorke, who as always twitched a lot) at the mention of this 'Chapter', although Twilight couldn't fathom why part of a book would cause them such distress.
"Yes, but we didn't get anything like that." Lorkhan grumbled. "Except the bloody dinobots. And even so, what the hell's going on with their models?"
"The artwork looks decent." Zuko admitted.
"And then you realise they have three toes, the legs are longer than the body and they look like children's toys. " The Warsmith growled, tapping his forehead irritably. "But of course, who cares about that when they have access to one of the most retarded weapons yet innovated in the form of grav-weapons. Seriously, Marines have just managed to push themselves out of the meta, except we don't have anything similar and thus will be slaughtered every damn time. Warp damn it, I may hate their guts but you've got to bad for the poor Dark Angels who didn't get any of these toys to play with. "
By this point Twilight had begun slowly retreating towards the door, crawling along at a snail's pace despite the alien's seeming obliviousness. Looking over she saw Pinkie doing the same thing; the earth pony looked at her with a worried expression, and mouthed 'meta?' as if it were a foreign curse. Twilight grimaced but didn't answer.
"And the fluff!" he cried, seemingly finding a second wind. "What's going on there? Most of its just a copy-paste job but of course we get the usual flagship army stupidity, case in point being Vulkan supposedly leading the Salamanders for millennia after the Heresy."
"Well he is a Primarch, I guess it's possible..." Varvillon attempted.
"NO IT BLOODY WELL ISN'T. HE DIED. I SHOULD KNOW, I WAS BLOODY THERE. WHY, IS HE SOME KIND OF IMMORTAL? NO, HE'S NOT, BECAUSE THAT WOULD BE STUPID." Lorkhan took a few breaths, calming slightly. "Another bit, the Iron Hands and their 'Iron Council'. The fact that I remember it always being the 'Great Clan Council' notwithstanding, something called the 'Iron Council' should totally be our thing!"
"Why?" Zuko asked. "It's not like we'd ever get anything done."
"I'd say it brings me some satisfaction that the Templars got moved in to the main book." Lorkhan went on, having righted the table and resting an elbow on it. "But I feel bad for them losing what made them unique. Although they're now better and get access to the bullshit Chapter Tactics so why do they need my sympathy?"
"I feel obliged to mention that Chapter Tactics were present in the previous edition." Mordecai stated calmly.
"Yes, but they were linked to a Special Character. Now they're just handing them out willy-nilly, they don't even need a bloody supplement! Although they would probably still be better than ours." Lorkhan grumbled. "Seriously, Abbadon? We're way more popular than that armless loser! Why didn't we get a supplem-what are you doing Rorke?"
Twilight followed his eyeline. Somehow, Rorke had managed to retrieve the book from the floor and was staring at its open pages intently.
"Planning my Salamanders army." He grunted, not looking up. It seemed to catch Lorkhan off guard.
"...why?"
"You said it yourself, it's way better than our book, and it might help break up our gaming patterns considering every single one of us plays Iron Warriors."
Lorkhan seemed to consider this for a moment, rubbing his metallic chin in thought. From the corner of her eye Twilight noticed one of the tentacles on his armour snaking towards Zuko and plucking what looked like a sword from his belt. Passing the blade over in his hands, he tossed it to Rorke. "Look at this for me, would you."
Rorke twisted it from side to side, seemingly puzzled. "Look at wh-"
Twilight's breath caught in her throat as the tentacle that had stealthily clasped onto the back of Rorke's helmet forced his head downwards. The blade stabbed straight through the eye-lens, blood fountaining all over the table as Rorke toppled backwards and crashed into the floor. Rarity squealed, Rainbow nearly vomited, Fluttershy began to cry. None of the Iron Warriors even flinched.
"Vulkan lives my arse." The Warsmith growled. It was scant moments before the wizard politely cleared his throat.
"Our late colleague does raise a valid point though, it must be said." Mordecai attempted. "It seems to me that part of the reason you're so zealously opposed to this book is...well, forgive me but, jealousy lord."
Twilight tensed, awaiting the inevitable retribution from the Warsmith. To her surprise, his response was not violence; rather, a defeated sigh.
"Well, don't tell me you're not, watching the loyalists get all the cool toys whilst we're stuck with Codex: Plagues Marines and Helldrakes." He grumbled. "I just want to be able to compete with the units that are fluffy for my Legion to take, even if that means a half-assed Supplement, but Warp knows that won't be for a while..." he perked up, sitting up higher in the cushioned seat. "Barbus, go and get me a datapad." The other Iron Warrior fidgeted slightly, but complied. Whilst he was gone, Mordecai leaned in surreptitiously.
"Lorkhan, old bean, my commendations for being pro-active here, but are you really sure this is wise..." The Warsmith raised a forestalling hand.
"I said what we needed was a half-assed supplement." He stated calmly. "And I am the master of half-assed."
After ten minutes or so Barbus returned, carrying a strange mechanical device in his hands. Placing it on the table before Lorkhan, Twilight watched the Iron Warrior back away as the Warsmith flipped the lid open. Within was a keypad connected to a screen; using only the tips of two fingers, the Warsmith began to tap away furiously, although given his size in comparison to the machine's the effect was almost comical.
The other Chaos Marines crowded around him, peering at the screen with a mix of eagerness and hesitation. Something primal drove Twilight on, and warily she approached the table. Rainbow wasn't far behind her, and to her surprise Fluttershy came too. Lorkhan was working himself into a frenzy now, half-skull helmet focused intently on the screen before him.
"I never realised how hard writing a GW codex was before now." He admitted, not looking away. "When you consider the target audience they're going for, you have to work your way into the mind-set of a pre-pubescent twelve year old boy."
"Yeah, that must be a real challenge for you." Zuko said without a hint of irony. Twilight couldn't stop herself giggling ever so slightly, but for his part Lorkhan seemed completely oblivious to the insult.
"What were the others doing whilst we were in Ultramar?" The Warsmith asked no-one in particular. "Well, it's not like any of them are ever going to read this anyway. Hey, how many Vindicators should we have do you think?" he suddenly asked Fluttershy. Before the panicking Pegasus could reply, he waved a hand dismissively. "Ah who am I kidding, we're Iron Warriors, we can take as many as we want."
He worked in silence for ten minutes, pushing on with a focus that Twilight found almost admirable. The occasional worried glances shared by his brothers behind him seemed to have no effect on him, and eventually he finally stopped, leaning back as he tapped a final key triumphantly and folded his arms.
"Well, what do you think?" he asked, turning the screen to afford the other Astartes a better view. Twilight could just about catch a glance, not that it made much sense.
Lorkhan, at least seemed pleased with it. "I told you, fluffy AND effective."
It was Zuko who broke the silence. "Your writing is appalling, the rules are something that twelve year old we were mocking could have come up with, and none of the things you're claiming in the 'background' section actually happened."
Lorkhan looked at him dejectedly, and for once it seemed to Twilight that he didn't look like a marauding alien warlord; more like a kicked puppy.
"So...you don't like it?"
The other Iron Warriors cast nervous glances around, mumbling quietly without ever actually answering the question. To her surprise Twilight found she pitied him ever so slightly, but she needn't have. One of his brothers seemed to be about to speak up.
"I didn't know your first name was Usirien." Mordecai said. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | IV | "I worship nothing. I believe in nothing."
-Perturabo, Primarch of the Iron Warriors.
"You do totally have a crush on Spike!"
"I do not!"
"Yeah you do!"
"I-I don't..."
"Then why are you blushing?"
It couldn't have been more than ten minutes, but to Zuko it felt like these squeals of righteous indignation had been going on for hours. He tried his best to shut himself off from it, but somehow they found a way to penetrate even his finely-honed mental blocks. It was all he could do to trudge forward and pretend they weren't here.
"A-anyway," Sweetie Belle's voice cracked slightly, "He's a Dragon."
"Yeah." Applebloom countered, "but not lahk, one of tha' scary ones!"
"Besides, you know he's already into girls like you." Scootaloo said, and Zuko assumed it was with a cheeky wink.
"R-really?" She tried to play it down, but it was clear to Zuko that Sweetie had become distinctly more excitable. Or at least, it would have been were he really listening. Which he wasn't.
"Yeah." Applebloom agreed, latching onto whatever joke apparently was there. "Yah know how Spahk is around 'classy girls'." That one was definitely with a wink.
"What are you girls talking about?" Sweetie Belle asked, confusion evident in the young girl's voice. The barely-perceptible sound of Scootaloo and Applebloom's hooves in the deep snow came to a complete halt. When they spoke it was in unison, and seemingly incredulous.
"Seriously?"
Before she could respond Sweetie Belle stumbled into something cold and hard. She moaned in pain as he head collided with the Power Armour, and she rubbed her sore horn gently. The other two stopped before repeating her mistake, looking up with some trepidation as Zuko stood dead still. The snow fell lightly now, but the wind still whipped across the arctic tundra. The fluttering motions of the cape were the only thing that proved Zuko wasn't a statue.
"Shut up." He growled, deep voice bludgeoning through the roar of the elements. "Just...shut up. Please." He finally acknowledged the presence of the three fillies with a red glare. They stared back up at him in incomprehension. "You're not even meant to be here, for damn's sake." He muttered the last bit, but somehow they still heard.
"Ah told you, everypony else has gone tah summer camp!" Applebloom explained with a smile. "We were gonna go, but then we Scootaloo here found out that you were goin' somewhere an' that sounded much more excitin', so we told Ms Cheerilee that we were stayin' home instead and followed you!"
The Space Marine processed this information. "Your families do not know you're here, do they."
Applebloom's smile faltered as the winged one, Scootaloo, took it upon herself to answer. "Well...not exactly."
Before this whole affair, the Iron Warrior may have been tempted to bring his Power Fist to life and take his chances. Now, he merely sighed, and tried his best to resist reaching for a cigar. Desperately searching for a way to kill his rising headache, his eyes fell upon the saddlebags the three wore over their burgundy capes. "And I suppose this is the part you make me feel much better by telling me you packed a full survival kit in there."
For a moment they stared at him dumbly, before a spark of comprehension seemed to flicker into Sweetie Belle's eyes. "Oh, they're just the bags we'd packed for camp. We've got extra capes, stuff to keep us entertained on the journey-"
"-but no food." He finished. Their silence told him everything. He sighed again, slamming the palm of his oversized gauntlet into his face and shaking his head sadly. "Lorkhan is going to kill me...fine. If you're going to stay, at least have the grace to be quiet and not bother me. If anything happens to you don't expect me to care." He turned and began to walk deeper into the storm, and to be fair to them they did listen to him for two whole minutes.
"I know Spike's not one of the scary Dragons now, but what if he turns into one?" Sweetie asked.
"But he wouldn't if you just admitted you liked him." Scootaloo insisted. They seemed to consider this for a moment, before the inevitable happened. "Hey Mr Zuko, have you ever seen a real Dragon?"
Flashes of a green Dreadnaught played before Zuko's eyes briefly. He didn't sigh for a third time, seeing the pointlessness of it, and instead forced himself to roll his eyes and let them ask their questions. "Yes." He admitted. "Of a kind. We used to own two."
"You gahs owned Dragons?!" Applebloom said, her voice full of awe. "How'd ya catch 'em? Ah bet y'all need a really big net?"
"We didn't catch them." The Astartes explained. The snow drifts were getting deeper. "We made them, or the Warsmith did I guess. Took...bad things from the Warp and bound them inside Dragon-shaped bodies of iron."
This time the three ponies were more prepared for him to stop suddenly, but there was no admonishment forthcoming. Instead, Zuko merely stared off into the grey darkness as if locking eyes with something only he could see.
"Bodies of iron..." he muttered. The words pricked something inside of him, but for once in his life the Iron Warrior realised he didn't quite know what. Then he was gone, striding forth into the storm and speaking no more.
He drummed his fingers impatiently on the shaft of his waraxe, but it didn't make the unease go away.
"This will not work." Lorkhan growled, eyes locked on the stone statue sat in the middle of one of the Olympian Suns' arming bays. The Iron Warriors had formed a loose ring around 'Discord', even Vortun and his warped brother coming to stand watch (whilst giving the masonry a wide berth, of course), but even their distrust of what they were planning was evident.
"I say, your pessimism does you no credit my friend." Mordecai chided, not looking at the Warsmith. Alone of the group he stood slightly within the ring, similarly focused on the mismatched creature before him. He'd left both his axe and pistol in his chambers, but hadn't gone quite as far as to neglect his black and glowing rune blade.
"Don't smother me with false concern, witch." Lorkhan hissed, tightening the grip on his weapon slightly. "This will not work."
"Indeed?" The Sorcerer asked, favouring his commander with a sidelong glance. "Why ever not?"
"Because I say it won't." Lorkhan said simply. "Besides, you know I hate things like this. Even we don't grovel to...them." This last line drew a few murmurs of assent, and surprising as they were the Warsmith took a moment to revel in the unusual feeling of his brothers agreeing with him.
"Chaos, you mean?" Mordecai asked, brining an icy hush to the room. "Oh come now, do not be childish. We are all grown men here, and besides, surely it is no different to the creation of Daemon Engines?"
"No. Creating a Daemon Engine is as much about science and well...engineering as binding the thing, and even then it relies on the Neverborn being in our power." Lorkhan explained through gritted teeth. "It's a skill I've had to learn through my own efforts, not ritual dictated by insane 'Gods'."
Mordecai's response was to chuckle and shake his head, although the Warsmith wasn't sure if it was in despair, mockery or something else. "I shall endeavour to provide satisfaction to your exacting standards, sir." Before Lorkhan could respond the Psyker had unhooked the large brown book that was chained to his belt and opened it, ignoring the dust that fell from the pages. Lorkhan recoiled slightly as he glanced some of the runes etched onto the pages as they writhed and flickered before him.
Deep down, Lorkhan knew he was not popular; he'd never been popular throughout the Legions, nor the IV, or even his own company. He also knew that no matter what else he might have been-a pirate, a marauder, a murderer, and maybe a bit slow on the uptake sometimes-he was still an Iron Warrior. Vortun didn't have much choice but to pay the Ruinous Powers homage, but the devotion shown by Mordecai and to a lesser extent, Rorke towards them was always a sore point for him. It was not that the Warsmith suffered from any religious crisis per se-he knew the Gods existed-but he never paid them any more than the most grudging homage, and saw their servants as tools to be exploited and nothing more.
They'd never been inclined to speak about it, but he didn't think Zuko saw them even as that.
Mordecai began to speak in an awful, piercing-yet still strangely cultured-snake tongue, extending his free hand towards the statue. Immediately change began to warp it, lines of black light coursing all across the cracked marble. As he began the other Iron Warriors as one dropped back into firing stances; Rorke twirled the power sword in his hand almost hungrily whilst Barbus yanked the catch on his autocannon back and braced. Lorkhan took his axe in a two-handed grip and crouched slightly, Mechantendrils snapping at air, as Mordecai concluded his incantations. Light began to stream from ever growing cracks in the stone, and before any of the Space Marines could react something that sounded like an explosion ripped through them. To a man, the Obliterators included, they moved to shield their eyes from the radiance.
When Lorkhan looked back, what remained of his one organic eyebrow raised as his jaw dropped open.
The thing that hovered before them was...not what he had expected at all. Far from some maniacal chaotic demi-god, complete with mindless hunger and apoplectic rage mixing in its eyes, the creature seemed almost amused by them. Sure enough, in full view of the bemused Iron Warriors it locked its mismatched fingers together and stretched away from its chest with a yawn, before chuckling whilst scratching its arse.
"I have to admit," he said, and even its voice sounded wrong for what was supposed to be a fragment of pure madness, "I was expecting old Celly to roll out the welcome wagon once again, but you gents seem far more interesting than that old fuddy-duddy." He waved his hands downwards in a dismissive gesture on the last words, eyes literally rolling out of his head. Lorkhan had to blink a few times to make sure this was actually happening, but decided not to comment. Barbus apparently did not share his restraint.
"...this is a joke, right?"
Lorkhan shot him a look, but the strange creature-Discord-just giggled childishly. "Oh, if you look hard enough I think you'll find most things can be construed as a joke on this or that if one looks at things from the right...angle." On the last word, Discord's head began to twist on his neck, still speaking. In seconds it had rotated 180 degrees to what must surely have been a neck-breaking angle, although it didn't seem to affect him in the slightest. Several of the Iron Warriors recoiled in disgust, but Discord wasn't done. With a snap of his fingers a light began to glow around Barbus. When it dissipated, the fearsome and murderous Traitor Astartes of the Iron Warriors legion stood with...with a bright red nose somehow attached to the front of his helmet, a rainbow-coloured afro wig, and a pointed party head to top it all off.
The Iron Warrior came as close as he ever had in his life to yelping, tearing the clownish apparel from his head and taking aim with the autocannon. A staccato burst of heavy calibre fire erupted from the tip, the bullets streaking towards Discord. And yet, not one connected; the Draconequus had disappeared, and the autocannon rounds struck wildly into the wall and over the heads of ducking Space Marines. Lorkhan was the one to put a stop to Barbus' rampage with a forceful backhand slap.
"Oh, I was right, you boys are fun." Came the mocking voice, disturbingly close to the Warsmith. Lorkhan almost stumbled back as Discord appeared on his shoulder, elbows resting petulantly on his shoulder. The Iron Warrior made a grab for the creature, but again there was nothing to grab. "I don't even need to deharmonise you, you're all doing such a fine job of that yourselves." There was that voice again. It seemed to Lorkhan that they'd finally managed the impossible and found something as irritating as Mordecai.
"Now see here, old fellow." As if on cue the Sorcerer spoke up, although Lorkhan found some solace in the fact that for once he sounded as nonplussed as the rest of them. "I'd argue that we've done you a jolly good turn by releasing you from stone imprisonment, and I dare say that something of a compromise is in order between our two parties."
Discord looked at him for a moment, stroking his chin sagely as if considering the proposal. "Well I suppose some thanks are in order. It did get horribly dingy in there, something I wouldn't mind repaying those bothersome six ponies and their 'Elements of Harmony'." He admitted at length, and although it was framed at a joke the Warsmith thought he detected an element of bitterness in those last words. "Except the Pink one." Discord mused. "I think she had potential, you know?"
Lorkhan's hands curled reflexively, as if the fingers were tightening around a neck. Before he could reply, enough brain cells fired simultaneously in Rorke's head to elicit a response. "Elements of Harmony? For fuck's sake, is everything on this planet disgusting?"
Discord laughed, at once both mirthful and cruel. "Well I think I like you most of all. Just anarchic enough to be entertaining, but stupid enough to present no bother." Lorkhan groaned internally as Rorke roared and swung his power sword down in a right-handed sweep. The energised blade sliced through the creature's talon, slicing it off at the wrist. Part of Lorkhan was hoping that this would elicit some kind of response, and sure enough Discord did give a wail so melodramatic it would have put Fulgrim to shame. Equally predictably, the wail swiftly subsided into a manic chuckling as another, identical talon burst from the stump. Discord smiled and twiddled the claws, waving at Rorke as the furiously thrashing Champion was dragged back by his two of his brothers.
"Where have you gentlemen been all my life?" he asked, cranking up the melodrama again. "Had I known you were around I'd have ditched Celestia a thousand years ago! Although if I might suggest something," he added, seemingly deep in thought again. "You could do with a bit of...oh, I don't know, let's say sprucing up."
It was unfortunate for Basikor that he was the closest when Discord snapped his fingers, the now familiar light enveloping him. When it dissipated it took all Lorkhan's restraint to hold back. Gone were the familiar horns and steel plate, replaced by immaculate golden yellow. A black, clenched fist took the place of the Iron Skull.
"G-get it off!" Basikor squealed in a most un-marine like fashion, dropping the Icon as he stared down at his yellow gauntlets. It was too much for some of the other Astartes.
"GET HIM!" one screamed, sprinting towards 'Kor. Two more joined him, and the last Lorkhan saw of Basikor was the now-yellow Marine fleeing from his companions down the darkened halls of the ship. It elicited another internal groan; when Zuko was back, Lorkhan resolved to acquire a cigar from him.
Discord, for his part, was literally rolling on the floor laughing, clutching at his sides as tears trickled down his face. "Oh good heavens, this is just TOO good! Y'know part of me thinks you're actually doing this on purpose, except-"
The grating voice was abruptly cut off by the crunch of an immense Power Talon. Lorkhan flinched back as Discord was hauled from the ground by his neck by Vortun. With contemptuous ease, the Draconequus' struggling meeting with no success. Lorkhan wondered in the back of his mind why he didn't just teleport away, but the answer came moments later.
"Your abilities are commendable." The Obliterator rumbled. "And I can see vhy ordinary creatures think you so wild. But ve are not ordinary creatures, are ve Herr Diskord?"
Even with the odds against him, Discord was seemingly still in the wise-cracking mood. "Well...when a..gentleman of such...attractiveness meets a mind...such as mind, things are bound...to get Chaotic."
"Chaos?" Vortun growled, and something in his gut told Lorkhan that the Obliterator's usually aloof demeanour was cracking. "You think vat you are Chaos?" He tightened the grip of his claws, drawing Discord closer to his face as the creature spluttered and pawed weakly. "You are not Chaos, mein comrade. Look at me." Something akin to fear began to creep into Discord's eyes. Vortun would not be dissuaded. "LOOK AT ME." Slowly, Discord complied. The Obliterators' face was, for once, utterly without change.
"You speak of Chaos as if you know it. As if you are ve Arbiter and...and god. But you are none of zese things you freak, nothing but a pathetic vurm who somehow borrows our power."
"T...The Ponies...I..." Discord managed to stammer.
"You vat?" Vortun cut him off. "You made zem angry? You hurt zere feelings? Tricks. Jokes. Not Chaos, which is vhy you cannot escape us-cannot escape me. Ve are Chaos. I am Chaos. Look around you, mutant. Vhen vis is done, zey vill be so very more than angry. Do you have any idea vhere you really are?" His voice dropped to a whisper. "Do you have any idea who ve really are?"
And at last, Discord finally seemed to notice the skulls, chains and eight-pointed stars that were hung around the room and its owners. When Vortun released his hold and dropped Discord to the ground, something changed within him-the extinguishment of some mischief, the realisation of what exactly was going on. He cowered-actually cowered as Mordecai approached.
"I regret to inform you that there may have been a mistake, my Lord." The Sorcerer said at length. He sounded almost disappointed. "Our friend here is no Daemon, certainly not one of any substantial relevance."
"Then what is it?" Varvillon asked.
"If it were up to me, dear brother, then I still believe that the Ruinous Powers are at work here; the Warp is weak here, as we know, yet it is possible that these mutants act as a funnel of sorts. In essence, a reservoir of Warp Energy, even if he is not aware that is what he is."
Lorkhan absorbed this information in silence. "You know more or less what we've got left on this ship, right?" Mordecai stared at him for a moment, cocking his head to the side in mute questioning.
"Indeed sir." Lorkhan took a deep breath.
"Is the Burdened still bound?"
An even greater hush fell over the remaining Iron Warriors. Even Mordecai seemed momentarily taken aback.
"Yes, Lorkhan. He is." The Psyker finally said. Lorkhan was still for a moment, before casting a look around-to Barbus still aiming his autocannon at the Draconequus, the other Obliterator and his wildly mutating flesh, a furious Rorke still being held by two other Astartes. He looked back to Discord, and nodded once.
"Introduce him."
Discord's eyes widened, but before he could make any attempts to escape Vortun's claw held him again. The Obliterator plodded away slowly, flanked by the other Iron Warriors. Lorkhan stayed behind for a moment, hearing the creature's muffled screams as he was dragged away and staring down at his silver gauntlets dumbly. Then he turned and moved as well, following his brothers into the darkness that always stank of blood.
It took some luck, not to mention the expenditure of carefully hoarded resources and creative application of a plasma pistol, but eventually Zuko found he was able to get a fire going. He sat motionless for a moment, red optics staring into the flames as he let the heat seep through his armour. Not for the first time he found himself bemoaning Lorkhan's rushed job with the bionic legs-they were Astartes grade and so amongst the best of their kind, but the slap-dash nature meant they had a habit of threatening to freeze up in the harsh weather.
By now the moon had firmly entrenched itself in the sky, and the snow had at least stopped coming down as furiously. Zuko of course had been ready to keep going, but the Crusaders weren't holding up so well, complaining of tiredness and cold. Part of the Iron Warrior considered pressing on anyway, but eventually the logical half reasserted itself and he relented-having to bury them out here would have caused far more problems down the line.
Behind him, he heard one of them fidget slightly. They had long since fallen asleep, and turning the Marine saw Applebloom and Scootaloo curled up next to one another by the fire, capes draped over themselves. The one that had moved-Scootaloo, he guessed-mumbled softly and smiled as the warmth played over her, but did not wake. Zuko watched them for a moment, before shaking his head despairingly and turning to stare back into the flames, pulling his own cape tighter around his colossal frame.
Without warning, his enhanced Astartes hearing picked up the faintest sound. It was a sound Zuko knew well from years spent with the likes of Mordecai and Varvillon-the sound of pencil scratching on paper. Curiosity overtook him, and he turned around to spot a small white shape at the edge of their makeshift encampment. It was hunched over, cape blowing in the gentle wind, and the bag it had packed lay open beside it. Zuko stood and padded over to it, apparently unobserved.
He was watching Sweetie Belle's progress for about a minute before she spotted him, squealing and dropping the paper she held. Zuko was on her in a second, gauntlet clamped over the pony's mouth.
"Do you want everyone to know we're here?" he growled. She shook her head rapidly, and with a sigh the Iron Warrior removed his grip. His gaze turned down to the paper as he sat down beside the filly, arms resting on his knees.
There were some crudely drawn shapes on it; a small white horse with pink and purple mane that Zuko guessed was Sweetie herself, a larger white pony that looked like Rarity, Mordecai's friend-and who, Zuko suddenly realised, was Sweetie Belles sister-and beside the small horse a small green and purple lizard thing. He decided not to think on that too much.
"You didn't bring any food, but you did remember colouring supplies?" he asked incredulously. Sweetie Belle clutched her drawing to her chest protectively, face a mask of shame as she looked down.
"I-I'm sorry..." she mumbled sadly. Zuko shook his head, although even he wasn't sure what it meant. A moment's silence reigned before she spoke again. "Are you...are you mad at us?"
Zuko didn't reply immediately, staring out into the blackness with glowing red eyes again. "I'm a ten thousand year old, genetically engineered super soldier who lives purely to kill, whose only remaining home is literally Hell and who is locked in a war with a corrupt Empire that I truly believe is wrong and needs to be destroyed, and yet can never win or even strike a meaningful blow against as long as I'm forced to live like a common pirate." He said without emotion. "I'm mad at everything."
She looked at him for a moment, seemingly at a loss for words. It was only when a tiny white hoof extended and rested on his thigh did Zuko look back down at her. Sweetie's face scrunched up as something seemed to occur to her.
"Wait...ten thousand? But that can't be right, there's no way anyone can be that old! That's even older than Princess Celestia!"
"I'm not actually Ten Thousand." Zuko answered, mildly grateful for the change of subject. "Time doesn't flow normally in the Warp, and that's where the Company has to spend most of its time. Ten Thousand years have passed in the real world, but it can't be any more than a few centuries for me since...since Terra's walls came down." He wasn't sure why he told her that last bit, but it was accompanied by a strange sensation; almost the lifting of weight from his shoulders. She didn't pick up on it in any case.
"You guys keep talking about that 'Warp' thing." Sweetie said. "What the hay is it?"
He hesitated, unsure of how to explain it to a child, or even if he wanted to. "The Realm of Chaos. The font of our power. The mirror. The Empyrean. The Great Ocean. Or like I said, just plain 'Hell'. It's an alternate realm that coincides with the real one, and according to Mordecai it's made from the emotions of sentient creatures. Ships can travel through it to reach real places quicker."
"It sounds scary." Sweetie whimpered, ducking behind her cape a little.
"It is." The Iron Warrior confirmed. "Bad things live in there."
"B-bad things?" she whimpered again. "Do you fight them?"
"Sometimes." Zuko said awkwardly, unable to ignore the spikes bolted to his armour. And most of the time, we are those bad things sailors tell stories about.
"Oh..." the Pony said contemplatively. She seemed to think for a moment. "So...how old are you?"
He was about to answer when something stopped him; the dropping of a penny, the flicking of a switch in his brain bringing revelation. "i...I don't know."
"You don't know? How can you not know how old you are?" she asked with a trace of indignation. Zuko didn't answer immediately, and for some reason the unnerved feeling he'd got when he made the discovery didn't leave. "I know I was in one of the last batches of Marines to leave Olympia during the Crusade, maybe fifty years before it ended, but I guess I just...lost track along the way."
"So do you not know when your birthday is?" Sweetie Belle inquired. Her face had changed, a distinct expression of sadness crossing it. Zuko gave his best attempt at a shrug.
"I never have. We're not supposed to remember things like that."
"Everyone should have a birthday." She said quietly, seemingly to herself. "Your Daddy must have given you SOMETHING. And you've got so many brothers, they can't all have forgotten." That seemed to perk her up slightly, little white ears snapping back to attention. "You're so lucky to have so many brothers! I mean, you've got loads here, but Rarity says the wizard guy told her there's even more up in space! Do you have sisters, too? That must be quite scary-Rarity's like, the coolest pony ever, but I'm not sure I could handle thousands of her."
Hearing the Lord of Iron referred to as 'Daddy' was enough to bring a shiver to Zuko, but he shrugged it off. "It doesn't work that way." He explained. "We're not actually brothers in a genetic sense, we're...it's complicated." Another thought struck him, and once again he found he couldn't stop his mouth moving. "I did have a sister once. Before all of this, back ho...back on Olympia." He stared out blindly into the storm again, unaware of Sweetie's concerned eyes burrowing into the side of his helmet. "I don't remember much of my early life, but I remember that she was older than me. She had golden hair, blue eyes. She had a nice smile, but she never used it on me." He chuckled little, though there was little humour in it. "Hated me, always said that I was the worst little brother in the Imperium. But when the Legion came, she cried with my parents, and hugged me and told me that Father would look after me now." Her words had been 'him', he remembered, but few normal Olympians had ever called the Lord of Iron by his name, even in private.
"What was her name?" Sweetie asked, entranced. A shadow seemed to darken Zuko's helmet, making the already grim metal seem black.
"I don't remember that, either."
Silence reigned for a moment, eight foot tall killing machine and tiny Unicorn sat side by side as the wind began to howl again. When she spoke again Sweetie's voice had lost its usual chirpy, almost squeaky edge, but somehow it penetrated through the gale. "Why are you up here, Mr Zuko?"
He too was still for a moment, and when he did speak Zuko sounded even more tired than usual. "Because I was told too. Because I'm an Iron Warrior. That's what we do; we follow orders, no matter how much we might not want too. It's the reason we said nothing when the Angels and the Ultramarines and the Fists were given the glory, whilst our sole depiction was being literally ground into the mud and the shit-by our own side. It's the reason we fought the Great Crusade, and the Long War after that. The Thousand Sons did it because they had no choice, the World Eaters because they wanted to, us because our betters told us, and me because...because I really thought we could make the galaxy a better place." He snapped, not bothering to hide his bitterness. "Because I wanted to be a hero."
It was a few moments before he felt the press of tiny hooves on his leg again, but this time they were much keener. Zuko looked down at her, and found Sweetie Belle smiling innocently back up at her with large green eyes.
"I think you're a hero." She said simply.
Zuko met her eyes for a moment, his iron mask as unreadable and emotionless as it always was, and had been for ten millennia. Eventually he stood up, turning to stalk back towards the fire where Applebloom and Scootaloo still slumbered. Sweetie Belle watched him go as she worked up her courage. "Since we're both Cutie Mark Crusaders...can I please ask you a question?"
He stopped, cloak whipping in the wind. "You can ask."
She looked at the snow all around them, trying to choose the right words. "Well...it's just, all your friends take your helmets of sometimes, and Rarity said that she saw even your leader's face at the Grand Galloping Gala. So...why do you never take your helmet off?"
He gave her a long, sidelong glance. The light of the flames flickered off his silver armour, making the ceramite plates almost shine.
"I told you." He said at last. "I'm an Iron Warrior. This is the only face anyone ever cared about." |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | The Iron Price | Beep. Beep. Beep.
The hunched shape twisted, dark eyes casting a sidelong glance at the source of the distraction. A silver mk7 helmet sat on the hard bed across the room; the eye lenses were dimmed, the usual red glow absent in its state of deactivation, but the irritating beeping persisted.
Varvillon growled and turned back to his desk, and once again a second sound filled the air-that of a stylus scratching onto parchment. Bar the helmet he was a giant fully clad in iron, and the stool he was precariously perched upon groaned and creaked under his weight. It would have looked almost comical had anyone - Astartes or Xenos - had been there to witness it. But they were not; this was his place, where none of his brothers ever came, and that suited the Iron Warrior just fine.
He gently placed the stylus at the side of his paper with a sigh as the noise grew too wearisome to bear. Guilliman used a stylus he thought idly. As did the Lord of Iron when he wrote his treatises. And then there's me, stuck...here. How the mighty are fallen. He cast a glance around the small chamber, groaning quietly and rubbing the canine bionic that constituted his lower jaw. Like all cells aboard a Space Marine Strike Cruiser it was spartan in the extreme, all grey austere walls and metal-clad flooring. The rusting desk before him was one of Varvillon's few concessions to grandeur; that, and the hastily constructed bookshelf leaned against the wall. It was crammed full of tomes, most of which had had the titles worn away by simple age, but Varvillon liked to have them. It made him feel better about both his and the Companies' lot in life...or at least, a little bit better than Rorke.
Overhead, a flickering lumen strip shorted for a few seconds, taking some of the sheen from his armour. The beeping had now rescinded into a background throbbing, but Varvillon still felt a compulsion to answer it. He cast another, almost dejected look down to the work before him, recovering the first page from the bottom of the pile. An illustrated guide to trends in flora found through the Civilised, Feudal and Death Worlds of our Galaxy vol. 3. As the name suggested, the third he had penned - the first two were some of the more well-preserved items in his bookcase. He knew that Lorkhan looked on this hobby of his as 'weird and idiotic, as well as a distraction from your duties to the Legion', and some of his brothers were even less kind, but it rarely bothered the Iron Warrior. He had snuck copies into libraries throughout the Imperium where he could, and it was something to do besides train and hate.
He looked at the manuscript one last time, before savagely tearing the papers in half and casting the remains to the floor. Focus. Rising slowly from his seat, the Astartes crossed the short gap between his desk and cot-bed and picked up the helmet, organic eyes staring into the empty optics. He continued to stare for a moment, almost wistfully, before turning the ceramite construct upside down and peering into the depths. A small red light flashed inside, clearly the source of the beeping.
He'd had a hunch that the miniature auspex transponder would come in useful.
Reaching in with an armoured finger, Varvillon switched the bleeping off after some fumbling seconds, before turning the helmet the right way and snapping it into position over his head. The optics lit up and began to glow their familiar heartblood-red, and when Varvillon spoke into the private vox the mk 7 grille returned his voice to a baritone rumble.
"Brother-sergeant Rorke....can I borrow you?"
To the casual onlooker, the Iron Warriors may have seemed almost lucky in some respects; despite being reduced to literally the front fifth of their once mighty cruiser, they had managed to save an awful lot, although Varvillon suspected that that was more through chance than design. The main armoury was pretty much intact, as was the command bridge (well, as intact as it ever was) and many of the cell's-most importantly, Varvillon's. The Growler had made it, the only vehicle the Marines really cared about - if cared was the right word - and from the Warsmith's words he could infer that some of the more...unsavoury things that scurried about in their wake had survived down in the depths too.
Something that had not made it, however, was the practice cages. Whilst many of the weapons were stored in the armoury or in the hands of the Iron Warriors themselves, the actual training areas themselves were long gone. Given that the alternatives to training were to maintain their wargear (tolerable) or go out and breath the same air as the Xenos (intolerable), it had not taken much to convince Varvillon and his brothers to spring into action. In a display of true IV Legion craftsmanship they'd cobbled together a single replacement fighting cage in less than a day, complete with weapon racks and big enough for two Astartes to easily square off. It lacked many of the more sophisticated features found in such devices, but even so had proved immensely popular over the two to three months they'd been stranded.
Because of all that, finding the sergeant here by himself was a little surprising to Varvillon. Rorke's back was to his brother, and his power pack raised up and down slowly in a panting motion. In his right hand he held his stolen power sword, blade pointed to the ground and hissing slightly as some unknown fluid was fried upon it.
Another thing the Space Marines now had a deficiency of was servants. Over 70% of their indentured crew and Servitors had died in the crash, and they'd never had that many to begin with. The remainders had been forbidden to leave the ship, but if that kept them loyal it also brought other risks. Approaching the cage, Varvillon could see one clearly; just in front of Rorke was a pile of three to four mangled servitors, limbs hacked off and some still twitching feebly. Had he still had a jaw, Varvillon would have grimaced.
"The Warsmith won't like you breaking his-"
"Up."
The word was a growled command, and had he been mortal it would have easily stopped Varvillon in his tracks. As it was, he blinked once in confusion.
"Brother, we've got-"
"Up."
It was clear he wasn't going to get through to Rorke any other way. With another internal groan, Varvillon stepped closer to the cage, Rorke's back still to him. On his way to the training room Varvillon had recovered his bolter and sniper, but now laid them to the side in favour of his trusty chainsword. Entering the ring, the Space Marine closed the door behind him and assumed a combat-ready crouch.
It was over in twenty seconds. Rorke turned on him with a roar, too fast for even an Astartes to follow. Varvillon barely had time to think before the weight of his sergeant sent him crashing into the wall, a ceramite gauntlet crashing into his stolen helmet. He beat the deactivated chainsword ineffectually on Rorke's shoulder, trying to force his way out of the grapple, but the Champion's strength was considerable and he was stuck fast. A knee crashed into Varvillon's midsection, causing him to grunt in repressed pain, before a power sword swipe jerked his head roughly to the side. Fortunately, Rorke still had the good sense to keep the blade deactivated.
There was no artistry in this form of conflict. Varvillon fought as he'd always been taught, a mixture of mechanical efficiency and repressed bitterness being allowed to seep through into every blow. It made him more than a match for most enemies, and was a large part of why he was still alive. But Rorke was barely-contained savagery given form, and any weakness his rage might have burdened him with was offset by his superhuman physiology. It was a disgraceful display from an Iron Warrior, a Legion that demanded a higher standard of emotional control from its sons, but it was undoubtedly effective nevertheless.
Somehow Varvillon found himself on his back, staring up at a horned, red-eyed steel monster, dripping with synthetic blood from his earlier victims. Briefly, the Iron Warrior wondered if that was how he himself appeared to those he slew, but the time for introspection was cut short as Rorke pinned his brother down again and continued his relentless battering with the blade of his sword. The blows fell like lightning, an unrelenting rain on Varvillon's war plate, and when he grew tired of the sword Rorke merely tossed it to the side - near where Varvillon had dropped his own chainsword - and began to beat his downed opponent with his fists.
The pinned marine pressed back against his aggressor, desperately clawing one hand towards his lost blade. Accepting he wouldn't reach it, he changed tactics and delivered two powerful punches straight into his sergeant's face. Rorke's head snapped back, eliciting another roar from the half-crazed Marine. Standing, he stamped a foot down onto the soft armour between Varvillon's chestplate and helmet, nearly threatening to crush his windpipe. As his brother choked Rorke hooked his hands under the 'stalks' connecting the vents to Varvillon's power pack, and hauled him to his feet to hurl him into another wall.
Taking struggling breaths, Varvillon fought through the blackness encroaching on his vision as another powerful kick drove him to his knees. His armour began to pump pain-reducing combat stimms into his system as there was a moment's relent in the beating, Rorke staring down at him hungrily. The Champion turned as he recovered the two swords that lay on the ground, taking one in each hand. He stood before his brother once more, holding each blade out to the side - presumably to swing them in and slice Varvillon's skull clean from his shoulders.
"Are...you...done?" the battered Iron Warrior grunted. Rorke's frenzied assault halted, red optics glaring at Varvillon's own. They too, were crimson. With a growl, Rorke slammed one more punch into Varvillon's face, before dropping his brother and stumbling to the side of the cage. Varvillon looked up, spitting rich blood from his mouth and looking up towards the convulsing Marine. Rorke had dropped to his knees, leaning onto the side of the cage for support.
"What...do...you want?" Rorke growled, fixing him with a near-maddened glare. Varvillon returned it coolly as he rose back to his feet, recovering his chainsword and kicking the Champion's power blade to him.
"I'm taking the Growler." He said simply, breath returning to normal as the pain subsided to a dull ache. "There's a loose end that needs tying up."
Rorke shrugged as he slowly got back to his own feet. "And why are you telling me this plant-fancier?"
Inventive. "I was wondering if you want to come."
Rorke laughed, a sound as ugly as its source. "Go with you out into pretty pony land? Fuck off."
"Technically, you do owe me for patching you up after that debacle with the Blood Angels." Varvillon countered, pointing at the Champion. "You're going to need me, Rorke."
The twitching stopped for a moment as Rorke stiffened, and for a moment Varvillon wondered if he'd overstepped the mark. Rorke was hardly popular, but he was still technically a commanding officer, and the IV Legion demanded obedience and fidelity. But the spasms soon came back, and Varvillon released a breath he hadn't realised he was keeping.
"Didn't...need...you..." Rorke managed to stammer through gritted teeth. It occurred to Varvillon just how hard Rorke was trying to hold himself back from launching into another mindless assault. He almost found himself respecting the butcher. "Besides..." the horned marine said, finally exerting some control over his faculties. "You're not our Apothecary."
"I'm the closest we've got now that Vortun's...Vortun." Varvillon countered. "But that's not the point; I am asking you to come because you are my brother, I have been an obedient member of your squad for ten millennia, and if nothing else I respect the fact that you can curb-stomp almost any of us in a matter of moments in a fight." There was a moment's awkward pause between the two. "I'll let you drive."
That seemed to get his attention. Rorke stood, readjusting his helmet and sheathing the power blade. Wiping the blood from his helmet, he became a little more recognisable as the warrior he'd perhaps once been; though his fingers still twitched with the need to shatter bone and spill blood. "What exactly is your plan, anyway?"
"The Apple farmer seems to control much of the agriculture and food supply in town." Varvillon answered, his bionic and helmet vox helping to keep his deep voice monotone. "A Xenos it may be, but a creature of business. That suggests she is capable of acting in perceived mutual interest, of listening to reason."
"We do not reason with Xenos." Rorke pointed out venomously. "Before this fucking shameful escapade, we destroyed them on sight. You act like you'll be taking her to dinner soon." Varvillon didn't grace it with a response immediately.
Rorke glared at him from beneath his helmet. "How did I get stuck with you?" He mumbled, shaking his head in mock despair. "Fine." He grunted. "It's not like it can get any worse. But when she annoys me I'm going to kill her."
"Just let me do what I need to do first." Varvillon replied, choosing to take that last line in jest. He walked over to the slightly hunched sergeant, clapping a hand on his pauldron. "You'll enjoy it. You get to shout at people."
"Well, that's the last of 'em ah reckon." Applejack said with a smile, closing the sheep-pen door with a flick of a hoof. "Darn critters, it's a pain tah trah and round 'em up up on mah own ah tell yah. Thanks for all yah help Rainbow."
"Eh, no problem AJ." The cyan Pegasus replied, flicking her multi-coloured mane to the side as she reclined lazily on a cloud with a sigh and a contented sigh. "After all, we can't all be world-class athletes like me." She teased.
Applejack rolled her eyes, adjusting her hat. "Now don't go startin' that again y'hear? Ahm just glad we got it done."
"Well, duh I said I would." Rainbow went on. "In ten seconds flat, just like I promised."
"Ah'd say it was more lahk fifteen seconds." Applejack said with a sly smile. It had the desired effect, Rainbow sitting up from her reclining position with a glare on her face. "It was ten and you know it, Applejack."
"Hmmm...fifteen."
"Ten."
"Fifteen."
"Ten."
"Fifteen."
"Ten!" Rainbow shouted, flying down to hover a few centimetres from Applejack's face. The farm pony chuckled, pushing her away playfully. "Alraght then, if y'all say so...still, it was nahce to have some help, with Applebloom being gone and all."
"Yeah, where are AB and the others? I've not seen Scoots in days." Rainbow asked, crossing her forehooves as she followed AJ back towards the farm house.
"Eh, they're at some camp or somethin' with all their little school friends." The earth pony said. "Weren't very specific on where though. Speakin' o' which...ah don't suppose you've heard anything from Twahlaght?" she asked reproachfully. Rainbow's expression saddened slightly.
"No...although when I asked Spike earlier he said she was alright. Poor little guy looked exhausted though..." for a moment she was lost for words, staring at the ground. "I miss her, AJ."
"We all do." Applejack responded gently, knowing how her friend help. "Trust me sugarcube, ah know what'cha mean. We'll have tah go and see her sometahm, ah'm sur-"
She was cut off by the twitching of her ears, a sound gradually rising and getting louder and closer. It was an awful growling noise, like a caged animal let loose on the hunt. The two mares turned, screwing up their faces in confusion as the noise grew to ring through the whole air. "What in tarnation?" Applejack hissed.
The silver beast came crashing through into Sweet Apple Acres, swaying from side to side as it sped on at an insane speed. Dirt was kicked up in a constant stream behind it as the tracks gouged great pathways in the mud, and something that looked almost like a speaker-although it was shaped like some hideous daemonic mouth-blared out a discordant wail that was a true assault on the senses. The pair of ponies covered their ears as the construct barrelled into the clearing. It gave another almighty squeal as it turned almost sideward, switching into a power slide in a blur of steel plate and black and yellow stripes. Smoke barrelled from the exhausts that poked out the top, whilst chains that were hung from its side clattered together. Something within must have hit the brakes, because all of a sudden the screeching of brakes filled the air, and the beast began to slow down. It's back end span out as momentum still carried it. It stopped just in time, one back corner lightly tapping the trunk of an apple tree.
Feelings of shock, horror and pure anger warred within AJ as one of the Rhino's doors opened. Something huge stumbled out of it, grabbing onto the hatch above the doorway to slow himself. For a moment, Applejack thought he was going to vomit, but he seemed to shake it off and walk out, turning to look back inside.
"I'd forgotten about your compulsive need for speed." The Iron Warrior said to the unseen figure. No response seemed to pass between them as he began to walk towards AJ and RD, who both looked at him with expressions of puzzlement and exasperation. He walked swiftly, carrying something in his right hand, but no sooner had he crossed half the distance the second figure emerged from the depths of the tank. AJ could practically hear RD grinding her teeth together.
"Oh great..." she hissed. The second Space Marine, a horned beast with a sword gripped in one hand, seemed to share her sentiments and stopped midway. His brother stopped too, and after what seemed to be a small discussion between the pair they both resumed their march.
"My name is Varvillon." The first Iron Warrior said as he reached the two ponies. The other stayed back, red eyes locked on Rainbow Dash. She glared back. "And as out of character as it may seem, I've come to...negotiate a deal".
For a moment Applejack looked as though she'd been struck dumb. "A...a deal?!" She shouted angrily. "You think you gahs can just come in an ahm gonna make a deal with y'all? That's outrageous! Just look at what you've done to mah farm!" She made an expansive gesture with her hoof. Varvillon looked round, as if noticing the torn up ground and smashed fences for the first time.
"Sorry." He said in a tone that made it clear he was anything but. "Sergeant Rorke wouldn't come with me unless I let him drive. If there's one aspect that does commend him to the Legion it's his utter lack of subtlety."
"You've still not answered her question, metal head." Rainbow snorted, folding her forehooves as she hovered. "Why would we give a flying feather about what you want?"
Varvillon looked at the Pegasus for a moment, expression typically blank. Without ceremony he dropped the large bag in front of Applejack. Something shiny glinted within; both ponies gasped.
There were literally hundreds of bits in there, easily the equal made during the whole of Cider Season. They shined seductively at Applejack, the afternoon sun reflecting off them causing her to squint. The earth pony looked at them stupefied, then back at the Iron Warrior. "Wh...how did ya got all of this?"
"Not through theft or violence, before you ask." He said. "We've observed how you Xenos feel about that. There's more than enough here to repair your land, and spend some besides. My brothers and I will be willing to remake it more defensible if that smoothens our...diplomacy."
Applejack stared at the money again. It was a lot...and Granny Smith needed a second hip replacement that the family just couldn't pay for otherwise. She took one coin out the bag, and gave it a bite. It felt real...
"No." she said at last, pushing it away. "Ah couldn't, ahm the Element of Honesty. If you varmints did get this bah foul play..."
Varvillon seemed to consider this for a moment, before reaching down to his waist. He carried a wide array of weaponry-a long rifle slung over his back, another shorter gun strapped to a leg, and one of the distinctive toothed swords-yet he selected a single, simple combat knife that was still as long as Applejacks leg. She backed off as he drew it, Rainbow dashing between them to defend her friend. Yet, the Iron Warrior simply threw it to the ground at Applejack's feet, pushing past RD and kneeling low so as to be on the earth pony's level. His helmet was mere centimetres from her face.
"If you think I lie, then by all means kill me with my own blade." He said simply. "Cast us from your home. None of my brothers will harm you-"
"I might." Rorke cut in, finally deciding to say something.
"How touching." Varvillon answered, not looking at him. This close, Applejack could hear something...buzzing? Was that his armour? She pushed the thought aside, looking down at the knife, then at the money, then back at the Space Marine.
"Come on AJ, don't tell me you're actually considering this?" RD asked disbelievingly. Applejack grimaced.
"And...and you gahs promise that y'all didn't do anythin' untoward to get your paws on this here loot?" The Space Marine placed a hand over where she assumed his heart was, and nodded. Applejack stared at him for a moment, before nodding and sliding the bag of money behind her. She heard Rainbow groan and slam a hoof into her forehead.
"First, tell me what this here proposal of yours is?" she said, trying to remain as business-like as possible. The Space Marine was already walking away.
"Get in the Rhino." He said. "Provided Rorke doesn't kill us, I'll explain on the way."
Something Mordecai had said a while back occurred to him.
"Vull Bron would have a fit if he saw this." Zuko said, casting wary eyes around the shining city and trying to ignore the angry looks of the populace that lined the street; not because it offended him, but because he just didn't care. Their strange, reflective and shimmering bodies made such ignorance difficult to maintain however.
"Who?" Scootaloo asked from way down by his feet. The three tiny ponies walked to the side of the Iron Warrior, ever mindful of his huge, heavy steps. He'd thought that being escorted by armed guard into the city would have put a dampener on their enthusiasm, but if anything it had had the opposite effect. To be fair, Zuko considered, actually laughing for a change when those Guards had attempted to take his weapons probably hadn't helped.
"One of my brothers." He admitted, still looking around. "45th Grand Company." He paused for a moment. "He's probably dead by now."
The trio seemed not to be listening to him, instead entranced by the city of Crystals around them. It was certainly impressive, even a mind as blunted by war as the Aspiring Champions could see that.
"You didn't tell us you were coming to the Crystal Empire!" Sweetie Belle squealed, for about the fifth time that day. The pair of them had spoken little since their moment in the snowstorm, and whilst she looked hungry-they all did-her sense of wonderment seemed to be keeping her going. There was little breeze (in fact, there was little anything-Zuko had noticed with some suspicion that this 'Empire' seemed to have its own self-contained climate), and all four of their cloaks hung loosely and still on their shoulders. "It's even more beautiful than Rarity said!"
He was not concerned with its beauty. As they were escorted down the seemingly endless main road, Zuko subconsciously did what any Iron Warrior did; he observed. He calculated. He looked for weak points-the IV Legion always found the weak points. As far as he could tell, the city was laid out in pretty orderly blocs, forming concentric rings that slowly crept towards the centre of the city. Everything, from the buildings to the roads to the Ponies themselves, seemed to be hewn from rock, in this case a strange and impossibly pure Crystal substance. Zuko had fought in many a siege, but this was unlike anything he'd ever seen. He could almost have predicted both Lorkhan's immediate reaction and the expletives he'd use.
Dominating everything, situated at the heart of the city was a fortress that-had he still been mortal-would likely have stopped his heart. It was easily as big as the castle from which they'd escaped upon first arriving in Equestria, and was fashioned from the most vibrant white crystals yet. Its base consisted of four mammoth 'legs' that came together to fall the central structure. Four towers reached high into the sky from the castle's side, yet the middle tower was the highest of all, literally piercing the clouds and sending a spear of light up into the heavens. It reminded Zuko in no small part of descriptions he'd heard of the Astronomicon-the false Emperor's corpse-light-and an uncomfortable thought settled in his gut that here was a fortress the Iron Warriors could have struggled to take, if they'd ever come here in force.
The light disturbed him also, but there was a different reason for that.
Eventually, the unlikely party and their chaperones arrived at the castle, disappearing into its confines and being led up innumerable flights of stairs. For a moment Iron Warrior paranoia whispered to Zuko that they were being led into a trap, but cold hard logic soon reasserted itself and reasoned that they wouldn't do anything with the children here, not for pure virtue of being associated with him. And besides...he hadn't actually done anything wrong for a change.
Sure enough, the Guards led them to a spacious enough chamber, and the Cutie Mark Crusaders wasted no time in resting their tired hooves. Two Guards remained, spears held upright as they blocked the door, and looking at them Zuko could not help but admire their dedication; he'd posed them the question when they'd tried to apprehend him on what exactly they intended to do had he meant them harm. They'd been singularly unable to provide an answer.
The Ponies asked for food, and a veritable banquet was brought to them in short order. Sure enough, everything on the plates was made from the same crystalline substance as everything else, except whatever this was seemed perfectly edible. The Crusaders tucked in ravenously, even dainty Sweetie Belle scooping up what could only be described as a feast. Zuko's gene-wrought physique kept him going, and he declined eating, instead wandering to the edge of the room and lit a cigar on one of the wall mounted torches. Although it was childish, he took some pleasure from the Guards' panicked squirms as reached into his belt. He didn't smoke it, but holding it brought him a measure of calm.
"So, yah still haven't told us exactly wah you're here?" Applebloom asked, between mouthfuls of food. She stuffed a fruit he couldn't identify down her throat. Varvillon probably could have done.
"Lorkhan asked me to meet the Princess of this Empire." Zuko said, not seeing any point in lying to them. "Can-dance or something. I think the idea of an Empire made entirely of Crystal was too fabulous for him to resist, or something."
They practically spat their mouthfuls out. "W-We're gonna meet the Princess?!" Sweetie Belle stammered, eyes wide. "Ohmigosh, do you think she can help us get our Cutie Marks? I bet being a Princess means you get to try loads of things! What about the Castle, do you think we'll get to stay here? I've never stayed in a castle before, Rarity has though. When I tell her she's gonna be so jealous!"
He chose to ignore most of her monologue. "We're not going anywhere." He told them. "I am going to parlay with the monarch. You are going to remain here." Applebloom and Sweetie Belle gave dejected 'Awwwwwwwwww....'s, but Scootaloo's response was simply a wry, lopsided smile.
"You really think that's gonna stop us?" she grinned. Zuko sighed, shaking his head.
"I'm giving you and order." He told them. "Technically, I'm a sergeant. I'm used to having my orders obeyed." Scootaloo just kept on smiling at him, before giving him a small, companionable punch on a leg and sitting beside the Iron Warrior.
"I heard that they might hold the Equestria Games here someday!" she said enthusiastically, tiny wings flapping furiously. "Don't'cha think that'd be awesome!"
"What're the Equestria games?" the Iron Warrior asked. Scootaloo looked at him stunned for a moment, before something seemed to click.
"Oh yeah, I forget you're not from round here sometimes Zuko, heh heh..." she chuckled nervously. "The Equestria Games are like, the biggest sporting competition in the whole world! Thousands of ponies turn up to watch the athletes compete, and there's all kind of events; flying, running, javelin, stuff like that!"
"The Legions held intercine contests sometimes." Zuko said. "Some still do in the Eye, but they're decidedly less friendly. But we never got invited to the ones in the Crusade."
"That sucks." She said, apologetically. "I'm sorry."
"Don't be." He replied. "We wouldn't have gone anyway." She looked at him again for a moment, before continuing with her story.
"A-Anyway, I think Rainbow Dash should totally compete in the next Games! Don't you think she'd be awesome!"
"You idolise her, don't you? Scootaloo nodded eagerly.
"Well, who wouldn't! She's the fastest, coolest, bravest, most awesome pony in all of Equestria! Plus..." her face fell a little, and she looked down at the floor. "She's a really good flyer. And I'm...not."
The Iron Warrior looked down at the tiny Pony beside him, trying to think of what he could say now that a suspicion he'd maintained for a while was confirmed. With surprising gentleness, he reached out towards one of her wings. Scootaloo shied away at first, but eventually relaxed, edging closer to him. Zuko examined her wing carefully, taking care with the delicate structure.
"Perhaps the only one of my brothers that is truly tolerable is Barbus." He told her. "His eye was taken in a fight against Russ' pups, so we created a machine replacement grafted onto his body that would allow himself to see more or less normally." She didn't seem to understand for a moment, before it 'clicked' again.
"You guys can do that?" She asked, amazed. "You can fix body bits that don't work properly?"
"Well, replace them with bionics." The Astartes corrected. "But yes, we have the tools, and we have the...'talent', I suppose. At the very least there's Lorkhan."
She looked at him for a moment, normally brash and confident expression replaced with a timid smile. The orange filly was about to say something more when the Guards stood aside, a further two walking into the room with grim expressions. Zuko's head snapped round to meet them, whilst the Crusaders swiftly dropped their food.
"The Princess will see you now." One of the Guards said, with barely disguised hostility, before spinning on a heel and marching out. Zuko followed without hesitation, the three little Ponies and other Guards following behind. They passed through a long gallery lined with gemstones, until they eventually reached a huge set of doors. Not wasting time on preamble, the Guard opened the door, ushering the Iron Warrior and his entourage in.
The room was about as far away from a IV Legion command centre as it was possible to get, so much so that for a moment Zuko was almost blindsided. It was light and airy, large windows letting streams of light pour in through stained glass. The carpet, one of the few things so far that wasn't crystal, was a regal purple, lead to an almost imposing throne on the far side of the chamber. Armed guards flanked each side of the procession; the formation spoke a group that was used to blowing trumpets in celebration to accompany a procession.
There were no trumpets today.
Seated upon the throne was what, to even the most casual of observers, was clearly the mistress of this realm. Unlike all the other, crystalline ponies here, her coat was more 'normal'; a vivid pink that gave Zuko uncomfortable flashes of a brother Legion he'd rather forget. Much like Celestia and Luna, this one's royal status was confirmed by the presence of both hooves and wings; although the golden shoes, necklace and tri-pointed crown were unmistakable. Her 'cutie mark' was a turquoise heart that, predictably, was made of crystal. He focused on it without thinking, committing the shape to memory for later review.
"Her Royal highness, the Princess Cadence, sovereign ruler of the Crystal Kingdom." A nervous looking pony with glasses and a scroll stood beside the throne called out. "And announcing ssir...urm..."
"Zuko." The Iron Warrior said bluntly, stopping in the centre of the room. "Acting sergeant, third squad, thirteenth company, fourth Legiones Astartes."
She smiled at him. It was obviously fake, the well-practiced smile of nobility, but she did smile. "I welcome you to the Crystal Empire in good faith, acting sergeant Zuko. I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting any of the Iron Warriors, although my husband informs me that you fought valiantly against the Changelings at the battle of Canterlot."
She didn't mention the wholesale slaughter of her own kind they'd been doing moments before the bug creatures had arrived. Zuko reckoned that she didn't consider that 'valiant'. "Your partner was in the city at the time?"
She smiled again, the implication clear in her voice. "My husband is captain of the city guard, Space Marine."
The Captain of the Guard. "Oh." Zuko said, trying his best not to fidget.
She ignored him, eyes falling instead to his tagalongs. "And I see you brought guests." Cadence said, genuinely smiling now. "Hello, little ones." The Crusaders, who had stayed three metres or so behind Zuko, blushed and stepped back giggling.
"It's good to see you." The Princess went on, her voice a carefully composed mixture of authoritiveness and affection. "Although I must say, from what I've been told it'd have been easier to just take the train." She chuckled.
"Oh, we weren't scared Princess Cadence." Scootaloo put in confidently. "We were with Zuko! He'd never let anything bad happen to us, he can beat up anything!" The Princess looked back at Zuko, who returned her gaze with only a hint of awkwardness.
"Well, they certainly seem fond of you." She said, mirthfully.
Zuko nodded. "No matter how hard I try." He deadpanned. A couple of the Guards adjusted the hold on their spears, but for her part the Princess gave another demure giggle.
"Well, thank you for keeping them safe." She conceded. "I give you my word, as royalty, that you will be given the best hospitality we can provide during your stay, my lord Iron Warrior. But you understand, I must ask...what exactly is it that brings you here?"
The Space Marine stared, for the longest time. Light streamed in from the windows, the stained glass distorting and refracting the mid-day sun, causing Zuko's battered silver plate to sparkle in ways it had not for years. One of his bionic legs threatened to jerk uncontrollably. He turned, looking down at the three children. They looked back. Sweetie Belle smiled. Hesitating with his eyes on them for longer than he expected, Zuko finally looked back at the Princess. She smiled patiently.
"Diplomacy." The Iron Warrior answered.
In one fluid movement Zuko reached into his belt, drew the Plasma Pistol and shot Princess Cadence in the face. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Hisarna | Cadence's body dropped, face burned clean away by the force of a small sun. The Guards charged forth heedlessly in anger. Sweetie Belle screamed.
Zuko was already moving. This wasn't the way it was supposed to have gone, but the Crusaders' presence had eliminated any chance of slipping off by himself. He let loose another shot from the Plasma pistol, this time striking a guard and burning him to the bone. He ducked under a clumsy spear thrust and retaliated with a brutal uppercut, shattering another foe. The shards rained down around him, scraping down the ceramite plate.
Think. Think. Three seconds to cross the room, three guards to match. Locked door brought him some time, ten seconds at most, but he had counted at least 12 guards outside. Structural weakness in the windows gave another port of access...
Or exit.
He moved like lightning, shoulder barging another out the way and practically stomping Cadence's clerk-pony into the dirt. A Guard crashed into him from the side, the momentum for a moment catching Zuko off balance. He stumbled back, stopped only by the wall, and with some effort hurled the equine back. As he did so, the inevitable happened; the Guard crashed into a torch stand, knocing it to the ground unceremoniously. The flames spread wildly, devouring carpet and curtain. Some of the Ponies backed away from the blaze; those not lost to wrath, that is.
The fire spread through the throne chamber quickly, its extremities caressing Zuko's war plate. He did not sweat, but he did back off, conscious of the sensation of cooking inside his plate. He supposed that under his helmet, he was the palest of his brothers anyway. His back was to the wall as he worked out a plan, staring down the encroaching Crystal Ponies.
"Push! Come on, you gotta push!"
The sound drew his attention, despite his best efforts to ignore it; the sound of tiny hooves pounding on a heavy wooden door. Scootaloo strained frantically at the opening, but even with Applebloom and Sweetie Belle's weight added to the mix, they could not push it open. Despite the blood that trickled down from some areas of soft armour-the result of lucky spear thrusts-and the oncoming enemies, Zuko watched their plight for a moment. Then, in another deft movement he fired another burst from the Plasma Pistol.
The bolt of super-heated energy slammed into the ceremonial doors, blowing them clean off their hinges. True, the fire would have eaten through them soon enough, but the Crusader's panicked dash through the newly opened entrance allowed Zuko to refocus his efforts. With only a moment's sigh, Zuko lowered his horned helmet and responded to his aggressors with a bull charge straight into their midst. The sight of a charging, battle-ready Space Marine had the desired effect, and despite their anger the Guards began to disperse out of his way. It was all the opening the Iron Warrior needed. Leaping, he crashed a boot down onto a Guard-probably crushing its crystal skull-and threw himself in a somewhat awkward swan dive out the opposite window.
He was saved by luck. Although Zuko was fairly confident that most of the populace couldn't possibly know about their leader's murder yet, many of the Guards had already been mobilised and were flying around the tower; no doubt alerted by the sound of fighting. Falling face down, the Astartes somehow managed to crash into one of them, the two engaging in a rough and tumble fall through the heavens. Zuko's weight had probably broken most of...whatever passed for bones in his body, but the Guard was still able to exhibit a surprising amount of strength, and they did not drop from the air immediately. Locked in violent embrace, it was all Zuko could do to aim them head-first towards an oncoming window. He braced.
They erupted back into the castle in a shower of glass, reflective shards scattered over the equally luminous floor. The Pony was dead on arrival, neck clearly snapped as his body lay limp. It took Zuko a moment to rise, coughing and hacking painfully as he slowly made his way to his hands and knees. Some of the glass had punched through the soft armour at his joints, stabbing new wounds in his legs, his elbow...his neck. That one was problematic.
Three more guards burst into the room, these ones brandishing horns that pulsed with purple light. The Space Marine practically scrambled to his feet, sending another field of crackling energy around his chevroned Power Fist and raising the Plasma Pistol again. A gauntleted figure decompressed the trigger.
"Oh, you have got to be kid-"
He didn't even have time to chuck the overheating pistol away before it exploded in a flare of light, ripping apart both itself and the first half of Zuko's left arm. He staggered, blood dripping from where the wound had not fully cauterised in the heat and spraying all over the floor. His ears rang with the sound of the explosion, and had he still been mortal the sight of half one of his bones sticking out from the mangled limb may have rendered him unconscious. As it was, combat-stimms flooded his system, his mind straining against the haze of painkillers. For a moment, a thought of the cigar he'd never finished earlier flashed into his head.
It was a shame; that pistol had served him well for years. Though it was just another weapon in the Long War, the sense of its loss was palpable. Zuko bit back his rising anger, instead choosing to direct it at the ponies opposing him. Their shock at the loss of his arm, and the arterial fluid it sprayed when he moved, was their downfall-with one punishing right hook the Iron Warrior crumpled their heads. Vision swimming, he leapt over the corpses before they had hit the ground, running deeper into the crystal castle.
The place was a veritable maze, and one not designed for a warrior of Zuko's stature. His blood left a crimson trail behind him, and he elected to rely on speed more than anything to carry him through safely.
This is wrong. Blood of the Primarch, this is no way for an Iron Warrior to fight.
He skidded round a corner, using his momentum to knock a crystal unicorn flailing from a window, and tried to focus on the mental map he'd begun to draw up before everything went to hell. The mission dictated he had to keep going down towards the centre, if his navigational instincts were correct, and so Zuko aimed for descending flights of stairs; even in his wounded state he was able to leap down, landing in a kneeling position and often grinding any unlucky Pony beneath his boot.
A spear, hurled in desperation, splintered off the front of his horned helmet-missing an eye slit by the narrowest of margins. The Iron Warrior grasped the offending guard by the throat as he charged past, slamming him into a wall and breaking whatever constituted his spine. He kept running, down and down, paying less and less heed as to his exact direction. Eventually, Zuko actually had to squint reflexively as well as in pain as he emerged into the sunlight-having, purely by luck, managed to navigate his way down to the base of the castle. He supposed he was due some of that today. The clamour of betrayal and pursuit could still be heard above him, and even down here the Crystal Ponies that constituted the citizenry of the Empire seemed perturbed by his presence; perhaps more so due to the severed limb. He gave them only the most cursory of glances before disregarding them, turning and sprinting back beneath the towering Crystal castle in search of his true objective.
It was clear even to him that the fantastic, burning light he had witnessed earlier was born at this point. Specifically, whatever it was lay between the two spikes of stone-one erupting from the ground, one hanging down from the underside of the castle. As he got closer, the shape of his target became more apparent. It was shorn from what looked to be a peculiar strain of sapphire...crystal. Of course it was crystal. To one of the Ponies, perhaps the Heart would have been of considerable size, but to the Space Marine it seemed little more than a trinket. He cocked his head to the side, wounded body forgotten for a moment, and reached out to take it-ignorant of the attention and gasps his act drew. Surprisingly, for a moment it burned him even through his fist, and he had to shake it to numb the pain as if scalded. Gritting his teeth, the Iron Warrior clamped his talon around it, yanking it from its hold. It fit neatly into his palm.
We sacrifice so much, for things so small.
He now had no weapons other than his own body, but the effect was still near-instantaneous. The light and shine seemed to be sucked from his surroundings as he ran, a pallor descending over the Empire. Panic came with it, the cry reaching a crescendo as the Ponies seemed to realise what had happened. It would have been curious, had he bothered to stop and look.; the theft of the heart seemed to rip whatever peculiar magic powered the Empire away, subjecting it to the whims of winter. As the snow piled in like a gale, the crystal shine that enchanted the ponies retracted, their bodies devolving to weak flesh all around him. But he saw none of this; Zuko ran for the gate bleeding and fuming, magical blasts from the guards biting at his heels, dragging another kingdom into darkness.
"Hey, Varviloser, are we there yet?"
If there was any tensing in the shoulders of the Iron Warrior at Rainbow's snide remark, Applejack couldn't detect it. He did not even slow to acknowledge it, red eyes penetrating the gloom as he took each heavy crashing step into the undergrowth. His brother had already gone ahead, and despite his size Rorke was little more than a shadowy outline hacking his way forward with brutal sweeps of his sword.
"Urm, hello, earth to tinhead. I said-"
"I heard you." The towering warrior replied, the stoniness of his voice enough to coerce even the brash cyan Pegasus into silence. He offered no more exposition, if anything increasing his pace. Hanging behind for a second, rainbow shot a glare at Applejack. The Earth Pony grimaced back, mindful that she'd be getting a berating for agreeing to this later.
They'd left that construct of theirs at the outskirts of the Everfree, instead travelling under their own steam through its sinister confines. Even in the middle of the day, the forest was not a place that Applejack relished being. Where once it had been threatening, now it was outright oppressive-ever since the mysterious fire a couple of months ago, of which very little had been officially disclosed to anypony, it's the once verdant areas were tinged with the grey, ashen reminders of conflagration, and the ground littered with dead sticks. It made every hoof-fall into the litter give a sickening crunch, and not for the first time Applejack considered whether the proffered bits were really worth performing this favour for the Iron Warriors. They were still being downright sketchy on the details-she was used to them being stubborn, could even partially understand it, but this was beyond a joke.
She trotted closer to him anyway, grateful for the protection offered if not its source. His armour gave a strange buzz and hum as he walked. The quiet whine was irritating, but it did help offset the unnatural quiet brought about by the lack of birdsong or even wind.
"She's got a point, yah know." The orange pony said quietly, adjusting her hat as they walked. He did not look down at her, and for a moment she wondered if he maybe hadn't heard, but she should have known better.
"If I wanted you dead, then you would be dead." He said, apropos of nothing. She flushed, feeling herself tense, but it was not a threat as much as a statement of fact. She sighed, casting another glance around and doing her best to stay out of the shadows thrown by the gnarled, blackened trees.
"Now lookee here, ah know y'all are used tah callin' the shots an' all, but 'round here it just ain't the done thing tah lead honest ponyfolk bobbin' fer apples lahk this." She said, trying her best to sound unafraid, and probably failing. "Ah said ah'd help y'all, ah didn't expect-"
"It would have been a lot easier, as well as probably more forgiving to the sergeant's blood sugar levels, for us to simply drag some slaves out here to do this for us." He butt in, speaking slowly. "I heard of your subspecies' connection with the natural environment, however, and reasoned that there was no harm bringing in more skilled labour. And labour should always be rewarded."
The reply died in her throat at his words, and for a moment she was quiet as they walked. "Y'know, pardner, yah don't act lahk them other Iron Warriors." She said at last, softly. Varvillon scoffed, finally looking down at her, although not slowing.
"Coming from one of you, I'll take that as a comple-"
"You're more lahk a mob boss."
The Space Marine kept his red glare on her for a moment, before returning to following their path. They walked in silence for a while, Rainbow hovering a step behind.
It was the butcher that broke the quiet. Rorke came trampling back out from the bushes he had been hacking down, armour returning to its silver sheen rather than a shadowy murk as he stepped into the limited light in the Everfree. His sword was held lazily in his right hand, tip pointed to the ground, and Applejack took a reflexive step back as lightning danced across the blade. Though his face was hidden by the snout-nosed helmet, the Earth Pony could practically see his look of irritation.
"It's there?" Varvillon asked. Rorke's response was to grunt in what she assumed was the affirmative. They sped up the pace, taking bigger strides into the shadows. Applejack started to join them, when a blue hoof on the shoulder stopped her. Rainbow fixed the farmer with a hard glare.
"We can still go back, you know?" She whispered. "We don't have to let thee guys boss us around."
Applejack looked at her for a moment, grimacing, before shaking her head and gently removing the hoof.
"Ah'm sorry, Rainbow. But ah said ah'd do it, so ah'll do it. Before her friend could argue, she turned and ran to catch up with the two giants. "Oh, and bah the way, ah still wanna know how y'all managed tah get all that money." She said, pouting a little. Varvillon sighed and made to reply, but surprisingly it was his brother that cut him off.
"Colour me fucking curious as well, Varvillon." He growled, twirling the sword in his hand. "You are a lot of things, but not a legitimate businessman."
Varvillon actually laughed, though it was more akin to the sound of steel being sharpened. "Brother sergeant, Xenos, have a little faith. I acquired the funds in a perfectly reasonable manner." ***
Being the head of Ponyville hospital had its downsides, Doctor Wellwhinny mused. It meant long hours, stressful days, and sometimes having to be the bearer of bad news. But it also meant a sterile working environment, a stable paycheck, and a rare sense of job satisfaction. Luna's moon was high in the sky as he returned to his office, a contended smile crossing his face as he finally let the tension unwind.
It hadn't been the worst day he'd ever had, all things considered. Golden Harvest had been stung by some insect in her garden and was going full hypochondriac, two colts had come in for foal-flu jabs, one of the Pegasi who worked the market had sprained a wing, and lastly had been local farmer Applejack coming in for a standard check-up.
Ah...Applejack. Now there was a mare. Sweet Apple Acres was not too far from the hospital, and on a good day Wellwhinny could see her toiling in the fields from his office. She worked so hard...and so well. From what he observed of her working with hay, the Doctor imagined she was pretty good in it...
His thoughts were distracted as the low humming finally reached his ears. It should have been the first indication that something was wrong, but before he could react the door had slammed shut behind him. He turned, seeing two red eyes glaring at him from out of the gloom. He couldn't even scream as the lights were flicked on.
How the two towering aliens had managed to both sneak in and conceal themselves in his office, standing either side of the door, was lost on Wellwhinny. How they even fit was a mystery, but it was a conundrum for another time as they stared down at him. Surprisingly, there were two; the first, with the glowing eyes, wore fairly unadorned armour. The second had no helmet, although his armour was swrathed in dark grey robes. A teacup levitated in front of him-he brought it up to his mouth, tilting it and taking a sip.
"Good evening." He said, in a cheery and peculiarly upper-class voice. "Sorry to burst in on you like this and what, but expediency is I'm afraid an issue here."
"We're not robbing you." Said the other, helmeted one, bluntly.
"Certainly not." His brother agreed, frowning.
"Not even threatening."
"Damn rummy business, robbery."
"Although..." the helmeted one said, tilting his head to the side. "If, Gods forbid, we did want to rob him, what could we do Mordecai?"
"Well brother, if I really had too, I suppose it would not be an impossibility for me to consider reaching out with a portion of my psychic power and crushing our friend here's skeleton." Mordecai said, sounding managing to sound genuinely regretful. They lapsed into hush, looking down at the Doctor. Up to the point, Wellwhinny had done little but stammer silently in dumb confusion and fear, eyes wide. It took him a moment to find his voice.
"N-now, I'm sure we can reach some form of...arrangement." He said, chuckling slightly in panic. The helmeted Iron Warrior nodded, whilst Mordecai clapped his hands together in seeming delight.
"Indeed we can. Isn't it nice when everyone co-operates?" Helmet asked, fumbling with his belt. His efforts met with the producing of a brown sack, which he held out in front of him. "Now then, as a licenced professional, we were hoping you'd consider making a small donation-"
"-not robbery." His brother stressed again.
"To the Fourth Legion Charity fund." He finished, nodding his head. "It's all going to a good cause, I swear on our Legion's honour."
It took him a moment to catch on. "Y...You're robbing a hospital?" the Doctor asked, incredulously. The Iron Warriors sighed in unison.
"We've just been over this."
"Do try and keep up, old sport."
"We're not robbing you, we're asking for a donation." He insisted, shaking the proffered bag. "Think of it as a celebration of newfound solidarity and co-operation."
His mind was racing whilst he tried to find a loophole. "But I don't have any money on me?" he tried.
"Oh, not to worry." Mordecai said. "Why, I'm sure you wouldn't be averse to dipping a little into this marvellous establishment's rainy day coffers."
Clearly, they were not leaving, nor were they in much mood to negotiate. Gulping, the Doctor turned and padded towards his desk on shaking hooves. He reached down and began to fumble with the locks on the safe stashed into one of the built-in cupboards.
"You keep the money in your desk?" the armoured one asked behind him. Wellwhinny froze, but did not turn.
"It makes for...ease of access." He said, in a small voice. When they didn't reply, he judged it was to allow him to continue. He managed to flip it open, revealing a caseload of hundreds of bits. In hindsight, keeping it all in his office was a tad foolish, but until now he'd never considered the prospect of being effectively mugged by two alien super-soldiers. Without having to even touch them, the bits were telekinetically pulled from the safe and dropped into the bag. The Doctor turned back to them as Mordecai stretched a wrist out. The other one nodded, tying the bag closed and swinging it over his shoulder.
"Thanks." He said, turning to leave. He stopped in the doorframe after flipping the lights off, turning back to look at the Pony. His eyes were two pits of fire. "Oh, and best keep this our little secret for the time being. We'll get your commemorative plaque sorted soon enough. We'll be seeing you soon enough."
Then they left, leaving the Doctor alone with only his rapidly beating heart for company. ***
The party reached its destination in short order, just as Rorke had promised. The two Ponies stopped dead, whilst the Iron Warriors looked out with either approval or contempt. This area of the forest was not as blackened as the others, and from the green clinging to the grove's outskirts it was clear the fire had perhaps not reached here. That green was contrasted with the wave of blue that stretched out along the ground; a blue the two Equestrians recognised instantly.
"Poison Joke!" Rainbow cried, gritting her teeth. "It's a set up, I told you! Come on AJ, the evidence is pretty bucking clear!"
"Y'all know that this stuff puts a curse on yah, right?" the orange pony asked, casting a sidewards glance at the Iron Warrior.
"By my sensors reckoning, the narcotic element of this plant is ready for harvest." Varvillon explained flatly. "You Earth Ponies have a connection with the natural world, we've been informed. Collect it all for us, and the money is yours."
"Earth Pony?" Rainbow asked, practically spitting her words at them. "Then what am I, huh?"
The Space Marine looked at her. "Two for the price of one." She looked like she was about to explode, and Applejack took it upon herself to intervene.
"An' may ah ask what y'all will be doin' while we slave away for ya?" she asked, raising an eyebrow suspiciously. Varvillon just looked at her, whilst Rorke laughed, drumming his fingers on the handle of the sword.
"Do we look like fucking farmers?"
That seemed to be the last word on the matter. Applejack stared at them for a moment longer anyway, searching for some reprieve or leeway; as usual, the blank stare of their helmets gave her none. Unable to stop herself pouting a little as she reaffixed her hat, Applejack turned her back to them and, with a heavy sigh, began to pad towards the fields of blue. Rainbow, apparently, was having none of it.
"Uh uh, no way." The Pegasus said firmly, floating to hover in front of her friend. "Not gonna happen, AJ. I am NOT going through being called 'Rainbow Crash' again. Besides, I still say that working for these guy isn't cool..."
"If ah get cursed again, then ahm sure Twahlaght or Zecora can just whip us up some of that there potion." Applejack replied, neutrally. Behind her one of the Iron Warriors coughed, but she gave it no thought. You don't have tah help me, Rainbow, but even if these guys ain't bein' honest with us then shoot, ah won't have the same said about me." Before the Pegasus could reply she pushed back, heading into the field of flowers. Rainbow lingered for a moment, seemingly on the precipice between despair and anger. Finally though, her status as the element of Loyalty seemed to win through, and she followed the Earth Pony-though it was not free from disgruntled muttering.
Even for such a relatively compacted area, it was hard work. The Poison Joke was a delicate little flower, and it took all of the pair's skill to avoid being hexed once again. Predictably, Rainbow displayed considerably less care towards the task than Applejack did, seemingly rushing in an attempt to get it done. The orange pony was more methodical; in lieu of anywhere to store the collected plants, and with the Space Marines being as uncommunicative as ever, she elected to pile them up in a heap. The result looked more akin to the beginnings of a bonfire than a resource, but it was good enough. After about an hour and a half of solid work the pair were done-the collection of flowers at least half as tall as one of the Iron Warriors.
"Well, that's the last of 'em." Applejack said, breathing heavily as she trotted over towards Varvillon. He looked down at her, then at the pile.
"Good." He said, as if that settled the matter. "Now go and stand over there, and don't say anything stupid."
Getting dragged into the middle of the Everfree Forest and forced to perform tedious, gruelling work just to be called stupid was more than Applejack could take. She frowned, before gritting her teeth and reddening deeply, but any angry outburst was forestalled by a rustling in the bushes. The pair of Ponies fell back a little, casting furtive glances at one another as the three shapes emerged into the clearing to stand before the Iron Warriors. They were hunched and canine, knuckles dragging on the ground and a foul cloud misting before beady eyes. The gems on their collars somehow still managed to sparkle.
"Diamond Dogs." Rainbow hissed, looking again at her friend. "How the buck did the Iron Warriors find them?"
"Ah'm not sure we want tah know."- Applejack said, forestalling any attempt at an explanation. The tallest Dog, a grey furred creature with a red jacket that Applejack remembered from the whole fiasco with Rarity stepped forwards, looking up at Varvillon with green eyes. The red-eyed Astartes stared back down at the creature, who seemed curiously unafraid of the giant before him.
"Not usual to meet in middle of forest." He grumbled, eyeing the silver warrior suspiciously.
"We were hardly going to meet you on anything other than our terms." Varvillon explained, voice without emotion. "And besides, this makes the whole dealing process easier." There was some more grumbling and awkward shuffling from the two Dogs behind him, but Red-Jacket just scowled.
"Fine. Show me, show me." He said in his scratchy voice. The Iron Warriors parted, letting the trio take a look at miniature mountain of blue that lay before them. The Diamond Dog's pupils visibly dilated as their mouths dropped open, hungry drools leaving their lips. Applejack and Rainbow slowly backed off, trying not to get caught up in this. They were not quick enough-Red-Jacket spotted them, eyes narrowing. Fortunately, he didn't seem to recognise them, but he still kicked up a fuss.
"Why you bring Pony?" he growled, casting a viperous look at the Iron Warriors. "Ponies was not part of the deal."
"They had value to me." Varvillon grunted. The Dog seemed to take that at face value, and returned his attention to the pile of Poison Joke. He licked his lips eagerly.
"Not much to smoke in the mines, heh heh." The Dog cackled idiotically. "Very good to have all these spares. And it goes for at least as much as gems, oh yes, maybe more."
"Don't need a life story, Xenos." Rorke drawled. Varvillon let him finish before taking a step towards the canines.
"We have fulfilled our end of the bargain." He told them, hand resting on the grip of his large gun. "Now, what have you got for us?" Red-Jacket looked at him for a moment, eyes wide. His ears drooped up and down against the top of his head. Then, with a click of his fingers, he summoned the largest of his two companions. The Dog produced a roll of paper, warily offering it to Varvillon. The Iron Warrior ripped it from his grip, beginning to unravel it.
"They write Gothic?" Rorke snorted derisively.
"Apparently so." Varvillon replied. Another statement seemed to be coming, but it died as he unravelled the paper and stared down at it. Applejack couldn't see what was written, but for once the Space Marine went utterly still. Even his brother was motionless.
"Bloody fuck." Rorke muttered. Varvillon stared at the paper for a moment more, then looked back at the Dogs.
"This was in the mountains?" he asked, and despite the distortion from his helmet the Iron Warriors' voice was unusually quiet. The Dogs nodded in their usual, hyperactive manner. "And you're certain this is what it said?" he continued. Again, they nodded. Varvillon took a deep sigh. He folded the paper and slot it into a pouch on his belt. "Thank you for your contribution. The Fourth Legion is not unappreciative." It was subtle, but Applejack just managed to catch the tiny inclination of his head.
Diamond Dogs were deceptively nimble, but Rorke was lightning. The Iron Warrior struck out with a roar, the sword that had moments before been held lazily now drawn in a sweeping curve. It sliced clean through Red-Jacket's neck before his face even had a chance to contort in confusion, sending the head sailing away. The spray of jetting blood daubed the front of his armour an arterial crimson, some of it fizzling from the blade of his energised sword. He stepped forwards and brought his knee up, crashing it into the largest Dog's chin. The sound of a neck snapping was audible as his head jolted back, and the body dropped limply to the floor. The last of the Dogs, the smallest, wisely chose to turn and flee. Rorke stopped for a moment, eyes locked on his target, before unsheathing and raising his pistol. The sound of a gun's report echoed through the forest air, and the Dog just had time to scream before the bullet exploded within him and reduced his body to a shower of fleshy chunks.
Applejack's mind was gone, mind temporarily whitewashed by the scene of slaughter before her. It took a lot to unman the Pony, and she'd seen the Iron Warriors in action before, but what had just happened was not a battle. It was an execution. Even Rainbow Dash was cowed, the only words leaving her lips "Mother of Celestia..." in an unnerved whisper.
"You shouldn't have used the gun." Varvillon sighed, standing over the bodies. "It was not needed, and we may have been heard." Rorke's response was to turn to him and growl unintelligibly. Varvillon returned the glare, before nudging the headless corpse with a foot. "Collect the skulls then, I know you're into things like that. Then load them on the pile." He pivoted back, and seemed to look at AJ as if only just remembering her and Rainbow were here. He was silent for a moment.
"The money is still at your farm." Was his justification. "Run home."
Applejack was not a cowardly mare. Far from it; she'd faced Gods and demons, plus a corrupted Princess of Equestria herself, had climbed to a Dragon's lair, baited Timberwolves, and more besides. But when he spoke, she complied, turning tail and galloping off as fast as her hooves could carry her. Rainbow was not far behind, even her brash attitude failing her as her wings strained to fly faster.
The Iron Warriors did not follow, but the sound of smoke and fire from behind them minutes later was all they needed to know.
LORKHAN.
The word streamed across the retina screen within his helmet, shaking the Warsmith from his reverie. Lorkhan cast a glance around the blackened command deck, before remembering it was pointless; even if the source of those words was actually in here, it was unlikely to reveal itself.
LORKHAN.
What remained of the deck was much as it always was, a lightless place filled with cracked computer terminals and sparking holomaps. It was unusual to find more than 3 or 4 Iron Warriors here at a time, but now it was just Lorkhan that sat there in the shadows. Even Vortun had gone, though he didn't know where.
For a moment, he was unsure how to reply. He drummed his fingers on the armrest of his sunken throne, shifting slightly where he lounged. He considered speaking, but even Lorkhan knew that talking to himself would send the wrong message.
Shut up. Go away. A headache started to tingle behind his eyes as he thought the words, and for a moment it seemed to be for nothing as no reply was forthcoming. The Warsmith fidgeted again, not sure how to proceed.
YOU SUMMONED ME.
The words were merely that; words. Yet, something in them almost seemed to slither across his brain. Had he kept more of his flesh down the millennia, Lorkhan may well have shuddered.
No. I gave you a plaything, and I intend to put you to use. At no point does that require conversing with you.
No words appeared on his screen, but Lorkhan got the distinct impression he was being laughed at.
USE ME.
AM I YOUR TOY.
AM I STILL BURDENED.
Yes. I keep you locked up down there for a reason. How is our guest?
HIS SCREAMS SUSTAIN ME.
Lorkhan drummed his fingers again. For the ten minutes he had known him, Discord had been nothing more than an infuriating ass, but even he didn't deserve to be left at the mercy of the Burdened. Sympathy had long since been ground for the Warsmith, along with pity, but a sliver of bad feeling for the Draconequus flared up for the briefest second.
Don't damage him too much. You think his soul will work?
USIRIEN LORKHAN.
SO QUICK TO QUESTION.
SO SLOW TO PROVIDE.
The lord of the Iron Warriors gritted what remained of the teeth underneath his half-skull helmet. Do not question me. We are not equal partners, Ch'zar'ako. The screen flickered with static for a moment, and the tendrils slowly gripping his mind writhed slightly as the Daemon recoiled at its true name. It pained Lorkhan too, to think it-though perhaps not as much as it should.
HE WILL SUFFICE.
Good. You're going in, too.
ONE SLIP UP IN THE PROCESS AND YOU ARE MINE.
YOUR SOUL IS TAINTED ENOUGH.
The Daemon had a point.
"Would you like to be whole again, Ch'zar'ako?" Lorkhan whispered to the dark, words almost lost within his helmet. Once again, it took a few minutes for a reply to formulate.
YES.
The painkillers had worn off a while ago. Every trudging step was carried by bloody minded determination, as well as the desire to see his arm whole once more. The blood from the burnt stump was somehow still dripping out, leaving a trail in the snow behind.
Once more, the wind lashed against Zuko's armour as he tried to make his way through the fields of ice. Retracing his steps back towards town was not the problem; even with the disorienting pain that threatened to make him stumble and veer off course despite all his training to suppress it, he still possessed an Astartes' eidetic memory. It was the sheer melting pot of events that made Zuko's pace depressingly slow. He had long since stopped thinking about it, filtering all memories out as he focused on putting one foot in front of the other, but he couldn't stop himself fuming on the inside.
The Crystal Heart he held clamped between the talons of his power fist was the most poignant reminder. It no longer glowed, seeming to be nothing more than a chunk of dumb rock in his hand. He didn't even look at it any more, refusing to bring it to eye level and shelter himself from the elements.
Something hit him on the leg. It was only a light touch, barely a glance, and for a moment he thought it was just his arm wound playing up. It took a second, slightly harder impact to stop him. When he turned, the Iron Warrior groaned internally-but he wasn't surprised.
The three little ponies-yellow, white and orange-stood in the blizzard, glaring up at him as they shivered. It was the white one that stood at the front, eyes almost burning as she stared at Zuko whilst assembling another snowball.
"Why are you still wearing that?" Sweetie Belle said, hostility dripping from her voice. Zuko may have been IV Legion, but even he was surprised by the bitterness. He adjusted the tattered red cape on his shoulders. Great tears had opened in it where shards of glass had stabbed through. He considered telling them he had forgotten he was wearing it...but there had been enough deception today. He was enough of an Iron Warrior to appreciate that.
"It's cold." He said, voice perfectly moderate. "I'm resistant to weather, but it never hurts to make sure."
"Ah thought you were mah friend!" Applebloom snapped, seemingly having to physically restrain herself. "Ah thought ah could trust you, that you weren't lahk the others!"
"My loyalty is to the Legion." He said simply. "I told you that well enough. Strangely, we're not the most diplomatic of fellows."
"You were better than them!" Sweetie screamed, flinging the snowball at him. This one managed to strike his chest plate. "You said your Legion had changed, that you wanted to be a hero! You WERE a hero...you were a hero to me." Her voice grew quieter, cracking with emotion and tears. The wind around them was fierce, yet Zuko still heard her sniffles. "All those things you told me...all that about wanting to be a good guy...was any of it true?" She looked up at him, biting her lip in anger. "Did you mean a single thing you said?"
He was motionless for a time. "Yes." He said at last. "I meant every word."
"So now what?" Scootaloo spat, taking her eyes off the stump of his arm. "Are you gonna kill us too, like you killed Cadence?"
He sighed, realising the question had been inevitable. "No."
"What then?" The Pegasus said, stamping a hoof. "Are you just gonna leave us?"
"If I take you back, you will reveal what I have done. If I kill you, too many questions will be raised. Yes, Scootaloo. I am going to leave you here."
"And that doesn't bother you in the slightest, does it?" she asked, scornfully.
"No." The Iron Warrior lied. Sweetie Belle stared at him for a moment, green eyes trembling as tears rolled down her cheek and froze.
"I thought you were better than them." She said again, looking to the ground and shaking her head in despair. "You were my friend, Zuko. I don't care what species or...or Legion you are. I loved you as much as any other friend." She squinted harder, sniffling to try and stop herself crying more. "But you're not any better. You're all the same, you're all monsters. And...and I hope you all die!" She squealed, furious eyes burrowing into him as she looked up. "I hope every last one of you dies!"
For a moment, even Zuko seemed taken aback by the violence in her words. His response was to nod. "So do I." he replied, and despite the steel in his tone the melancholy that lurked behind it was unmistakeable. He turned and began to walk before they could question what he meant, moving at a more hurried pace than he'd like to admit.
His footsteps left deep impressions in the snow, and the blood stained every one red. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | OiM Halloween Special-The Twilight Zone | "And then, the Lord of Iron contacted First Captain Forrix to demand why he had not reduced the trajectory of the Earthshaker batteries by 1.17 degrees downwards like Magnus had requested. But Forrix told him that the Thousand Sons had already left the system. So...who was the Primarch talking to on the Vox?"
Silence dominated the hold of the Olympian Sun. It was never light-the lumen strips had been almost universally knocked out in the crash, and nobody had bothered to repair them-but tonight they'd construed to make the chamber particularly dim. Supposedly, it was for atmospheric reasons, but all it really did was make the sources of light more noticeable; namely the pairs of glowing red eyes, and the bonfire burning in the middle of the roughly circular huddle and reflected off silver armour.
Lorkhan looked from brother to brother, seeking some sort of reprieve or even an acknowledgement. There was none. Sighing, he turned off the comically-undersized torch that was illuminating his helmet from beneath, and leant forward, tossing it into the circle.
"Not scary?" The Warsmith mumbled dejectedly, staring into the fire.
"Not even slightly." Zuko confirmed, placing a hand on his chin as slowly twisted the marshmallow on a stick held delicately between his fingers.
"It would have been scarier if the Thousand Sons had actually still been there." Barbus added, folding his arms. "Horror beyond imagining." There was a general mumble of assent from his brothers, most of whom had only been half paying attention anyway.
"Well, you think of a better scary story then." Lorkhan said caustically, looking over to Rorke on his left. The Champion's response was to merely shrug. Mordecai seemed little better. The Sorcerer had substituted his usual supply of tea for a strange substance that would have looked more at home in a cauldron than a flask, but Lorkhan had no doubt that it was anything other than perfectly civilised.
"Fine." Varvillon finally interjected , reaching for the torch and flipping it on. "If we're going to be stuck here all night, then allow me to regale you with a tale of terror."
"Rorke should be ze one to tell un story." Vortun grunted, shifting slightly. "He vas ze von zat forgot to put up ze decorations."
"Don't blame me, Obliterator.' Rorke growled, pointing a finger at the once-Astartes. "Any of you could have done it, and besides, the Xenos get all antsy if you start carting buckets of blood around."
"You could just use the fake stuff, you know." Zuko told him flatly. "Real blood isn't actually needed." Rorke stared at him like he'd just spoke Nostraman.
"I don't mean to be crass, gentlemen, but would you be so kind as to quiet down a tad? I would like to hear Varvillon's spine-chilling offering to this little soiree." Mordecai chimed in. Varvillon nodded in gratitude, then returned to staring at the fire, torch bathing his helmet in an unnatural light from the bottom up.
"This is the story that happened to a group of Iron Warriors, just like this one. It was a dark and stormy night, just like this one-"
"It's not stormy." Barbus pointed out. "It's actually pretty clear and still out." He was silenced by a smack round the back of the head from Lorkhan.
"Let him tell the bloody story." Lorkhan insisted, mecha-tendrils hissing as he spoke. Varvillon waited for quiet before starting again.
"Anyway it began on a dark and stormy night. The Warsmith had just finished calculating the logistical pathways needed for his Medusa tank squadron to deploy at the correct angle against the Fortress' curtain wall, when-"
This time, it was a quiet cough that broke the flow. Varvillon swore angrily, tossing the torch over his shoulder with a huff. The Astartes' eyes were drawn to the source of the noise. In the doorway stood a human serf, the man's frail body shaking slightly. He gulped as he looked down at the floor.
"This better be damn good." Lorkhan muttered menacingly. The wretch shook harder.
"S-sorry my lords...but she just...b-burst in." No sooner had he finished then a smaller shape, coming up to about his waist, pushed past. It was Xenos in origin, standing on all fours and clad in a simple brown hood with a short length of rope around the neck. Flecks of purple could just be made out in the dark.
"Nice costume." The Warsmith ventured at last. Twilight nodded and smiled awkwardly, though it was clear the belly of the Chaos Marine strike cruiser was the last place in Equestria she wanted to be right now.
"Thanks." She said, half sincerely. "I'm Clover the Clever...not that anypony knows who that is." Her small face scrunched up in a pout that would have been adorable, had the Iron Warriors had any understanding of the concept.
"You're right, no clue." Zuko agreed.
"If we'd known we were having guests, we'd have cleaned up." Lorkhan told her, a little awkwardness creeping into his own voice. She smiled more genuinely this time, casting a glance at the fire.
"Oh it's alright, I don't plan on staying long. IU was just...making sure you kept out of trouble." She tried, grinning and sweating slightly as her eyes darted from side to side. "Wait a minute..." she cast another look around, frowning again. "You...you guys celebrate Nightmare Night?"
There was a chorus of generally dismissive scoffing. "We don't participate in Xenos rituals." Rorke grunted, hand straying to the hilt of his sword.
"Manners, dear brother." Mordecai chided, taking another sip of his brew. Lorkhan rubbed the temple of his helmet despairingly before responding.
"We had a similar celebration on Olympia." He explained to the Unicorn. "The Legion never celebrated it, obviously. That was far too fun. But when we heard you had a festival of a similar kind, we figured we'd give it a try."
"It's not easy when you're engineered to be physically incapable of feeling fear." Barbus put in. Twilight stared at them all for a moment, blinking in incomprehension, before giving another uneasy smile.
"Well...at least you're entertaining yourselves...I like the Pumpkin." She tried, eyes moving to where it sat nearby. The Iron Skull emblem of the Legion was carved on it, glowing with an inner light.
"That was mine." Varvillon said, seemingly quite pleased with her praise. She chuckled in spite of herself, kicking a hoof nervously.
"Oh yeah!" she said at last, turning her attention to the Psyker of the group. "Urm...thanks for lending us those books. All the little ones loved them, they've had great fun looking for costume ideas."
As one, the Iron Warriors turned to look at Mordecai, who continued to sip his tea diplomatically. "Books?" Lorkhan inquired in a quiet, innocent voice. "Which books were those, brother?"
"Not to worry, sir." The sorcerer replied, putting on a reassuring smile. "I would never reveal the non-existent secrets of our jolly old band. I merely loaned our friends here a work from my personal collection detailing the various heraldry of our cousins. It seemed to my mind a harmless bit of fun." He turned to smile at Twilight. "You are very welcome, Ms Sparkle."
She smiled back. "Well, all the foals and fillies have had fun making the armour....and it was a fascinating read." She admitted, blushing. "In fact, they've all gone for the same colour scheme-"
"They have?" Lorkhan asked, sounding genuinely surprised. "They're all the same Legion?" She nodded. "Hmm...Night Lords, I guess. It would be appropriate."
"...come again?" Twilight said, bemused.
"Blue armour, lightning details." Zuko clarified.
"Fucking stupid helmets." Rorke added. Twilight tapped a hoof to her chin thoughtfully for a moment.
"No...it wasn't them. These guys were-"
"Death Guard, then." The Warsmith guessed. "Big fat sick looking green guys. Bit disgusting."
"No, it wasn't them, I think it was-"
"World Eaters?" Zuko asked, sounding more incredulous. "They're good in a fight, but red and bronze isn't particularly scary." Barbus put his hands on either side of his helmet, sticking an index finger on each skyward.
"Bunny ears." He clarified. Twilight shook her head.
"No, it wasn't any of them. These guys were...they looked pretty normal, actually."
Silence for a second. "Well, I guess the only thing to do is go and have a look." Lrokhan said at last, standing up and retrieving his axe. Twilight's eyes widened, a panicked expression crossing her face.
"What, no! You can't go into Ponyville tonight!" She cried. Lorkhan cocked his head to the side as around him the other Marines started to rise.
"Why not?" he queried. She looked away, searching for an excuse.
"Because...because you don't have a costume!" she settled on. "It's tradition, can't go to the Nightmare Night celebrations without one!" Lorkhan looked away, tilting his head to the side thoughtfully.
"You're right." He agreed, to her visible surprise and despair. "You, you, and you." He said, pointing to three line Astartes. "Retrieve paper and green pens. Rorke...get the car." ***
"Do you ever wonder if the Olympian Sun is haunted?" Barbus asked, bathed in the red light of the Growler's inner bay. He and the other eight or so Astartes cramped inside swayed slightly as the tank's back kicked out, speed getting the better of it. Twilight, who was currently sandwiched between Zuko and Varvillon, gave another quiet groan and turned a bit greener, but managed to keep the contents of her stomach down.
"We don't have time for that." Lorkhan reminded him, leaning forwards and resting his hands on his knees. "Otherwise the holiday special would be too long."
"If you'll permit me to recall sir, I do believe the original plan was for us to engage in fisticuffs with the...dying impaired, shall we say." Mordecai pointed out. Lorkhan shrugged as best he could in the closed confines.
"Zombies were cliche."
"The scariest thing is Rorke's driving, anyway." Zuko remarked as they swerved sharply to the left. The chuckle's told him the others agreed.
"He got us here." The Warsmith said, checking one of the monitors that showed the outside. "And all in one piece....except her." He jerked a thumb at Twilight, who groaned again. "Stop us here, Rorke." No sooner had he said it the brakes were applied, and somehow Rorke managed to flip even a tracked vehicle end-over-nose. When it had finally come to a full stop, the doors opened with a hiss of pressure. Twilight was the first out, practically sprinting and taking the opportunity to throw up. The Marines followed her out at a more leisurely place. The moon was high and unobstructed, reflecting brilliantly off their gleaming silver armour. Contrary to Barbus' assertions, there was a degree of wind, and a couple of the sheets of paper affixed to the Space Marine's armour were ripped off and carried away.
"Nor costume." Lorkhan said. "Guess you can't come in."
"I'm not sure drawing crude pictures of snakes on paper and sticking it to our armour counts as an Alpha Legion costume." Zuko deadpanned.
"It...kind of does." Varvillon pointed out. There was another general mumble of assent. With that they set off, the small band making their way closer to the centre of town. A couple of the Ponies-similarly dressed up, although with slightly more effort involved-had stopped to look at the Dirge Caster's blaring as the Rhino pulled in, but now merely shook their heads, rolled their eyes and continued with the festivities. They passed punch bowls and a wide variety of games, and were only slowed when Rorke was hit in the face by a toy spider thrown at him with some force. When questioned, Zuko insisted 'an older boy told me to do it'.
Finally, they reached a familiar face. She stood at a stand selling all kind of 'spooky' foodstuffs, though her own costume was anything but.
"You actually came as an apple." Barbus stated emotionlessly as they walked towards her. Applejack scowled at them, but gave a slow nod. Sighing audibly, Barbus reached into a pouch on his belt and handed a small sack of bits across to Zuko, who took it seemingly with satisfaction.
"What are y'all doin' here?" She asked, seemingly genuinely annoyed. "This here's a party for honest pony folks only, not...whatever you gahs are."
"Relax." Lorkhan said, holding up a forestalling hand. The paper with the snake on it that he had stuck over his face flapped in the wind. "We're not going to do anything too violent. We just wanted to see what design the infants had picked out from Mordecai's stupid little book." Applejack looked at him suspiciously, before gesturing over his shoulders.
"They're just comin' back now, ah reckon. They've been with Mayor Mare at the Naghtmare Moon statue." She glared angrily. "For some reason, Zecora didn't show up this year." The Space Marines ignored her, instead turning to look at the herd of Fillies and Foals.
Twilight was right, they certainly had all made the effort. Much of the armour was shocking, or at best a poor imitation, but every one of them wore some form of replica. The curves were defined, the chest stocky, the fist on the shoulder black, the colour a vivid yellow...
Wait.
"Hold me back." Lorkhan said, flatly. None of his brothers looked at him, instead focusing on the ponies and keeping absolutely still. It was only when he exploded with a frenzied battlecry and started charging towards the group, swinging the axe like a maniac, that they followed-most of them doing the same. The little ponies screamed at his coming, children running this way and that in an attempt to avoid the oncoming fury of the Chaos Marines. Zuko tried to resist, attempting to lock himself in place, but found himself carried along by the tide unless he wanted to be trampled underfoot. As the ponies darted down every corridor to escape, the group of Iron Warriors too dispersed to catch them, eventually disappearing from sight altogether. The only account of their presence was the squeal of Xenos and the boom of wild and inaccurate gun fire.
Mordecai remained motionless, giving a sigh and shaking his head with a fraternal half-smile plastering his features. He took a sip of his drink, savouring it for a moment, before turning his head and gazing blankly. To Applejack, he seemed to be staring gormlessly into space-as if he was trying to see through a wall, where beyond some people were reading about him on the internet. The sorcerer smiled again, taking another sip.
"On behalf of the Iron Warriors Thirteenth Grand Company, do have a smashing Halloween!" |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | I see Fire | A Space Marine Strike Cruiser was an impressive construct. Though nowhere near as monstrously vast as their larger kin, the infamous Battle Barges, the vast majority were still larger and more cavernous than many cities of man, as well as considerably sturdier. Even shorn in twain by the warships of the XV Legion, and laid cracked and low in the Equestrian countryside, the Olympian Sun remained a fearsome vision of iron, black and yellow-a rough and unavoidable scar torn clean in the otherwise idyllic landscape.
For all that, the once-proud vessel of the Legiones Astartes remained quiet and desolate. Few even of the mortal wretches that slaved within it remained, and those that did were not enough to populate the array of quarters and lower decks afforded to them that now lay silent. Of the ship's dread masters, there were even fewer-of the companies' worth that had once called the vessel home, perhaps 15 still remained. Even the dourest of the infamously grim Iron Warriors could almost see the funny side of their situation.
After they had been allowed entranced back into their craft, and inventory of their armoury was meticulously taken, the first thing the Chaos Marines had done was scavenge what they could from the few of their brother's bodies that remained more or less intact. There was scant love lost between the warriors, either living or dead, but they still buried the fallen as best they could. An Iron Warrior deserved no less. Few of the now-abandoned quarters had been moved into-or even entered-and so the Astartes spent most of their time either in their own meagre cells, grudgingly lurking around the Xenos settlement in the hope of scoring some amusement, or congregating with their remaining brothers in a limited selection of chambers and halls.
It was one of these halls that played host to a brotherhood now. Rain, heavy and constant, lashed the land and pattered off the roof from the Cruiser, matched only by the howling winds. The Ponies had for the most part chosen to remain inside, and the Iron Warriors had done much the same, six of them congregating within what had once been an eating chamber. In other Legions such a gathering could be fraternal and boisterous affair, but even at the height of their strength the Iron Warriors had disdained such joviality. The assembly now was a subdued one; many sat fastidiously stooped over armour or weaponry, leaning and checking he only things in the galaxy they trusted. Others were engaged in murmured and uncharacteristically idle discussion, recounting both victories past and countless, bitter setbacks. Sequested at a table alone was Mordecai; the sorcerer, for once, did not try to force pleasantries upon his kin, but sat engrossed in some old tome looted from the wreckage of an Imperial world. Besides the hum of power packs, and the occasional low chatter of voices, the room was near silent.
That silence was shattered by the arrival of a seventh.
The doors' pistons and gears wrenched open as Zuko thundered his way in, tramp of his armoured boots reminiscent of a hammer striking stone. He had made his way to Mordecai's table almost before the other Astartes had even registered his presence, slamming down the Crystal Heart that he had still kept clutched in his power fist unceremoniously onto the metal surface. His left arm had long since stopped bleeding, but the stump still hung their uselessly. The few sources of light that remained glinted off his ceramite armour. Red eyes set within his horned helmet glared unblinkingly at Mordecai, wilfully ignorant of the attention his wound garnered from his other brothers. The Psyker placed his book carefully beside his helmet, eyes locked with the sergeant's. Zuko saw them flicker down to the Crystal construct, then to his arm, and eventually back to meet his own.
It was Zuko that broke eye contact, turning to leave the room without word or grace. He heard the sorcerer behind him push back his chair and rise, moving to catch up with the retreating Astartes. A hand brushed his pauldron.
"Brother, what the dickens happened to your ar-"
The manoeuvre was swift and efficient, a counter-clockwise pirouette that delivered the swinging right hook straight into the psyker's face. Zuko managed to remain composed enough to leave the weapon's power field de-energised, but the punch was still barely pulled. Mordecai was knocked clean onto his face, head snapping to the side at an almost sickening angle as he landed at Zuko's feet. The Iron Warrior lunged to strike the downed Astartes again, but before he could land a blow hands grasped his shoulders, cape and arm, restraining the murderous sergeant. He was dragged back, head forced down as a knee was catapulted into his midsection.
"It's quite alright, gentlemen." Mordecai's voice was only slightly shaken as he rose to one knee, head bowed as he rubbed his chin. "I rather think I deserved that one." Regaining his full height, he made a gesture. Telekinetic force wrapped around his helmet, levitating it towards him. He took it from the air and clasped it back over his head with a hiss of pressure. As he looked back to Zuko, some of the grip on the Iron Warrior was loosened-though they did not let him go.
"Lorkhan may have the skills to use that blasted heart." Zuko began, the eyes of his helmet seeming to burn from more than their red tint. "But he would never have got the idea himself. He would never have known anything of how to use it, that's far too esoteric for him. This whole plan, this whole bastarding plan was your idea, Mordecai." He strained again, edging forward in his brothers' hold. His helmet was centimetres away from Mordecai's. "It was you all along."
The sorcerer sighed, seeming to be genuinely remorseful as he shook his head. "A severe assessment, dear brother." He admitted. "I have done nothing the Warsmith has not requested, nor anything our Legion would not expect from its sons."
"You knew all along." Zuko went on, panting hard. "It was you that convinced us to stay here in the first place, it was your idea to fraternise with the ponies...and all along, you knew what we were going to have to do. Why? What's the angle here, you bastard?"
Mordecai did not reply for a moment. "We are already Traitors, Sergeant Zuko." He said at last, softly for a Space Marine whilst also ignoring the question. "What harm could one more broken oath do?"
"And the Crusaders?" Zuko hissed. The Iron Warriors that held him looked to one another and broke out in mutters at his use of the term, but he was unrepentant. "Did you plan for them to be there too?"
At that, Mordecai looked away. "That was...regrettable." He said mournfully. "I had not anticipated there prescience when I suggested you for the mission. If I had any inkling at the time, brother, I would not have encouraged you to grow closer to them." He nodded, the gesture indicating the other Marines to relinquish their grip on Zuko. The Iron Warrior straightened, and though the hate was still clear in his posture, he did not attack. "I can only apologise for having besmirched your honour, my brother." The sorcerer went on, looking at him again. "But for us all, the Legion is above all."
"The Legion..." Zuko almost scoffed, turning to push past his brothers. "The Legion is dead, brother." He began to walk, his steps as loud as when he entered.
"When the Warsmith returns I will petition him to tend to your arm, brother." Mordecai called. Zuko stopped as he left the room, although he did not look round.
"You all have your prize." He said sullenly, as the doors began to close behind him. "I hope you choke on it."
Somewhere, something had gone terribly wrong.
Twilight knew the Princesses must feel it too. There was no way they couldn't have-it had practically ripped her into wakefulness, the sounds of voices crying out before being lost. She'd never experienced any sort of sympathetic magic before, but recognised that that was indeed what it must be. Where once the new experience would have excited her, now it just tightened the knot in the purple unicorn's gut more.
She knew she'd been retreating in on herself more, even though she'd promised her friends she would not. It pained her to break that promise, but Twilight didn't see any choice if Equestria was to have any hope of surviving the Iron Warriors. Hope was her motivation now, hope her god-even if she'd never believed in any sort of deity. It had meant isolating herself once more, despite what she'd promised Spike and the other Element Bearers, but Twilight knew they would understand. They had to understand; couldn't they see how vital it was? Well, maybe they couldn't...she'd seen the way some of them, Rarity and Fluttershy chiefly, had begun to act around the Iron Warriors. It smacked too much of softening and loss of control for Twilight, and at one point it had even occurred to her that the others might be starting to side with the Space Marines over their own kind. She'd dismissed it as preposterous, but the thought would not quite die, lodged up there amongst all the other paranoid delusions that now made residence within her head.
She had noticed something else, as the hours warped into days in a never-ending cycle; the quiet chattering from within her own mind. At first the sensation scared her, and she worried she really was going mad, but over time she'd come to realise that the whispers were hardly demonic. The voices, if she really concentrated, did naught more than guide and inspire the unicorn in her quest to understand what was going on. New magical theories and possibilities, and infinite vista of ploy and counter ploy, had begun to blossom within the unicorns brain. The deeper she went into her studies, and the more she paid heed to the murmuring within her head, the more Twilight began to feel like hope was more than an abstract concept. It was real, tangible, and she could be both arbitrator and deliverer. If her friends did not understand that, then...she would just have to do this without them.
More of the strange, serpentine eye runes had been marked onto the walls of her study by the unicorn. It was once more at the behest of the whispers, and though Twilight had at first been nervous about them, their presence had led to a palpable increase in both the magical energy in the air, and her own aethyric attunement. They covered most of one wall and parts of the others, staring out at her unblinkingly from all angles.
It was their aid she needed now. The table had been overturned at the far side of the room, Twilight facing it as if they were two stallions about to engage in an honourable, gentlemanly duel. She knew the blasts of purple energy from her horn were strong, and had even managed to make one of the Space Marines stumble, but if the worst came to the worst-and for Twilight, that was always a possibility to consider-it wouldn't be enough. She needed something stronger, something with bite, and to that end she had delved into parts of magic few had visited before. Through her efforts, she thought she had come up with just the spell.
Twilight screwed her eyes closed as the pressure within her head started to build. The muscles in her body began to at first ache, but soon heightened to a wild burning sensation as she tried to channel more energy into the spell, and staying upright soon became a herculean task within itself. She refused to relent, gritting her teeth and trying to ignore the pained tear rolling down her cheek as her horn began to flicker with power. The voices within her head were an indecipherable roar now, tying tight knots around her brain and eliciting moans that would have ashamed Twilight in any other circumstance.
Eventually, the bolt of coruscating energy blasted from the tip of her horn with fearsome force, pitching the young unicorn over onto her back. Twilight stared blankly at the ceiling, her vision distorted by flashing lights every colour of the spectrum; her panting was heavy and pronounced, limbs spasming whilst her tortured brain felt like some sharp, invisible tendril probed it.
Eventually, she was able to reassert some sense of self, and Twilight managed to roll onto her front and prop herself up with her forehooves. She stared wide-eyed at the ground for several agonising minutes, letting the last of the tingling sensation from her spell fade from her extremities. Slowly, she turned to look at what she had done.
The table was utterly consumed, lost under a roiling tide of burning magic. She trotted over to it slowly, a little in awe of what she had accomplished. It was clear that this was no ordinary fire-much of the table remained, occasionally giving a worrying pulse, but somehow Twilight knew that it was burned right to the core. The flames did not seem to be in the process of burning themselves out, in any case, continuing to spread and almost multiply. Though it was her first exposure, Twilight was pretty confident that they could burn through anything; wood, metal...
...Power Armour.
She frowned, head still ringing and screaming as she looked up. The hundreds of eyes she had marked on the wall still stared at her, yet almost seemed to...writhe in place, burning with their own light and flame in response to her magical outburst. From every angle they watched, yet as she turned in place to look at them all with a rapidly hammering heart, Twilight's concern was replaced with the descent of what almost felt like a fugue state across her mind. She cast a quick glance back to the flickering fire, frown melting away into an understated but satisfied grin. As she stared back at the eyes, she even managed a demure, feminine giggle.
Let the Iron Warriors have their hatred and their steel. If and when they tried anything, Twilight Sparkle would be ready for them.
"Now now, just hold still darling, I'm almost done."
It was not in Mordecai's nature to be a difficult, or even worse, ungracious guest. Yet, even as the holder of the less than prestigious title of most agreeable Iron Warrior in the galaxy, there were limits to what the sorcerer would reasonably tolerate. Being tended to by Rarity, like a child whose mother had to clean him up after he'd thrown food down himself, fell just outside those limits.
"I do not mean to be confrontational, my lady, but I scarcely think this necessary." He implored, fortunately unable to flinch as she levitated the cool, wet cloth to dab against his chin again. The bruise left by Zuko's punch was already near-invisible, testament to the rapid healing his Astartes' form was capable of, but even so it had not escaped the eye for detail a stringent seamstress such as Rarity possessed. No sooner had he entered the boutique and removed his helmet, as had become customary, she had spotted it and immediately proceeded to fuss over him inordinately.
"Oh come along dear," the Unicorn said, sticking her tongue out to concentrate as she leaned a little closer. "Just because those ruffians you choose to surround yourself with are so frightfully uncivilised does not mean we right-thinking Equestrians have to be the same." She leaned back, smiling as she adjusted the pointed red glasses seated snugly above her muzzle. Mordecai nodded as courteously as he could muster as she dropped the frilled cloth, leaning over to reaffix his horned helmet. His own crimson eye lenses flickered into life, targeting reticules and streams of information ticking their way across his retina.
"I would entreat you not to blame my brother for his...lack of tact in the heat of the moment." Mordecai remarked, though there was no malice in his words. "I am inclined to believe he was...rather justified in his emotional outburst. Though, I must confess that privately, I do worry that the Champion is becoming rather increasingly divorced from the ideology of the Legion he was created to serve."
She frowned slightly, and Mordecai reflected that after all this time the Space Marines were still an enigma for the vast majority of Ponies. Rarity was polite enough to not comment on the strangeness of his words, instead merely smiling and beginning to trot through to her boutique's living quarters. Mordecai followed, hands clasped behind his back as he wandered after her. Leaving her glasses on a kitchen counter, Rarity propped herself onto her hind legs and began to stir up a pot of tea. The Iron Warrior remained a few steps behind, casting an idle eye out the window. The onset of the planet's autumn had begun to become apparent; golden and orange leaves slowly flaked down from the dead branches of trees to settle on the ground, carried by the crisp air.
"Well, I for one am glad you agreed to my offer of tea, darling." The pony said, not looking up from her efforts. "It's been so dreadfully quiet around town recently, what with Twilight keeping to herself and even Rainbow and Applejack gallivanting off on that day-trip with some of your friends last week. Why, sometimes I even find myself missing Sweetie Belle and her little friends." She sighed, closing her eyes as she paused momentarily. The two mugs sat before her, steaming. "I may have my...differences with her sometimes, but I've not heard a peep since she and the other Crusaders went off to that camp with school." Her brow furrowed, looking up through the window. "Come to think of it, she wouldn't even tell me where exactly it was..."
Over the course of his life as an Iron Warrior, some 10'000 years or so in 'real time', Mordecai had only occasionally felt the tiniest tremors of what he assumed must be fear. Yet now, safely within the confines of his helmet, he allowed himself to grimace, swallowing hard at her words.
"I am confident that the reason for the comparative silence of the little one's is naught more than them being simply rushed off their feet...hooves." He corrected, trying his best to sound innocent through the vox-growl provided by his helmet. Rarity smiled again, nodding, and levitated his cup over to the Psyker.
"I am sure you are right, of course." She conceded, leaning back on her chair and giving another contented sigh as she breathed in the vapours emanating from her drink. She took a delicate sip, though Mordecai merely held his own cup. "And besides, it has allowed me to catch up on my own backlog of orders. With all the new autumn styles coming in, I am simply rushed off my hooves these days."
"I am sure you will rise to the task admirably, madam." Mordecai replied diplomatically. Rarity took another sip, cocking her head to the side.
"Oh forgive me Mordecai dear, I hate to be rude, but I confess there has been some...talk." She said, choosing her words carefully. "You and your kin have been...how can I put this...scarce as of late. To tell you the truth, we'd all been getting quite used to seeing you around as of late." She chewed her bottom lip apprehensively, clearly still worried about provoking the Astartes - even one as seemingly tame as Mordecai.
He was indeed silent for a few agonising minutes, red eyes glaring at her emotionlessly. Then he chuckled, setting his own cup down on the table.
"I suppose we have become a bit of a fixture, haven't we?" he said, inclining his head towards her. "Hard to imagine that but a few months past, we were jolly well ready to knock the seven hells out of one another." It was his turn to sigh, turning to look back outside as he folded his arms. "It is true that much of the company has been rather more...reclusive lately. My Lord Warsmith has become increasingly reliant upon a sense of kinship...with whomever is willing to provide it, I fear."
She could not help scowling as he mentioned the Warsmith. "Why?" she asked. "That Lorkhan of yours seems to be perfectly in control of you all." She practically spat the words, unable - or not bothering - to keep the spite from her tone.
"My lord...does not like to be alone." The Psyker explained. "Except when he is working. It gives him too much opportunity to think on things...things he would rather forget, I presume."
"But why?" she asked, sounding more intrigued than angry now. "You are all so...well, forgive me, but so imposing. I struggle to believe that any of you could suffer from such mental trauma as you imply."
Mordecai took another deep breath, still looking out the window. "Do you recall me telling you of the Horus Heresy?" She grimaced, nodding dourly.
"That terrible war? Yes, it sounds dreadful, but you say it is that which bothers your master? I still find that...difficult to believe. "
"During the war itself, we committed based on the solid assumption that we would be victorious." He explained. "I do not believe there was a single Astartes that wore the Iron armour of Olympia that seriously considered any scenario that would occur were we to lose." He steepled his fingers resting them on his chin. "When we were indeed defeated, and forced to flee, it sent a shockwave through the Legion. Every Iron Warrior, from the most favoured Warsmith to the lowliest neophyte, was forced to respond to our new situation in their own manner. I elected to dedicate my life in service to both the Primarch as I ever had, but also the new powers that shaped our brotherhood's destiny, even if the majority of the fourth refused to even admit their existence. Others, such as Zuko, chose to live in denial; pretending to fight as if we had never lost the war and were still at the height of our former glory."
"And...Lorkhan?" She asked tentatively. "How did he react?" Mordecai grimaced again, leaning back slightly as he considered his next words.
"To be coarse...my lord Warsmith reacted by going utterly mad."
"Hush now quiet now, it's time to lay your sleepy head. Hush now quiet now it's time to go to bed..."
Fluttershy's gentle voice carried through the still night air as she rocked the small animal back and forth in her hooves. Her wings flapped with equal placidness as she hovered slightly above the grass, and Lorkhan couldn't quite see how she was able to move laterally with them in their current position. Yet, somehow she was, and Fluttershy was able to lower the tiny rabbit down into the hutch with the briefest kiss on the forehead. It joined the six or so previously placed ub there, already beginning to doze softly. That left just one loose.
The Warsmith looked back down to the animal in question. Most small creatures fled at the side of the lord of the Iron Warriors, with his gargoyle-shaped backpack, skull helmet and snapping mecha-tendrils, yet this one merely stared up at him with large, idiot eyes. It put Lorkhan in mind of Rorke, though he couldn't quite work out what it was.
"Right then." He began, still staring at the animal. It stared back. "Okay. Let's be reasonable. I don't like you, and I'm fairly confident you aren't that keen on me. But we both want to be removed from this awkwardness, so in the spirit of mutual co-operation, can we try and put aside our differences for just a few minutes?"
It galled him to be reduced to this, a once-proud Iron Warrior asking a juvenile rabbit to put aside their differences. What made it worse was that the rabbit seemed to ignore him. It was fast; fortunately he was faster. His gauntleted hand shot out and grabbed it by the scruff of the neck as it tried to escape, lifting the kicking and squealing little rick into the air. With a supreme force of willpower, Lorkhan was able to stop himself from crushing its skull, and dropped it in the box with its compatriots. As one the animals backed away from him, little bodies shivering in fright.
"Oh my, umm...I don't want to offend you, but...c-could you maybe try not to scare the little ones please?" Fluttershy asked him, bottom lip trembling slightly. She sounded flustered as always, but there was also noticeably more backbone in her voice - more than there had been the first time she talked to Lorkhan, anyway. It grudgingly impressed him enough to allow her to pass the comment without reprisal, though he still didn't look at her.
"Warsmiths of the IV Legion do not help put baby rabbits to sleep." He reminded her. He ignored the murmur of apparently they do as it passed through his head, trying to ignore the reddening of nervous Fluttershy's cheeks.
They stood (or hovered) side by side for a few moments, Fluttershy with a quietly concerned expression on her face, Lorkhan emotionless as he leaned on his axe. It was the pony, surprisingly enough, that eventually broke the silence. "T-thank you for building the hutch, Lorkhan." She said, voice barely above a whisper. The Warsmith did not reply immediately, looking down at his creation. Much like the birdhouse that had come before it, it looked more like a military installation than a dwelling for animals, but despite that it was still fit for purpose.
"I was bored." The Iron Warrior snapped defensively. That wasn't entirely true; he had indeed had something to do. He just hadn't wanted to do it.
"Well, um...i-it was...nice, anyway. Y-you didn't have to."
"I didn't." he agreed, without emotion. Calling upon the mental exercises drilled into him to help him forget, the Iron Warrior was able to ignore the disheartened look from Fluttershy burning into his side...more or less. They relapsed back into a grudgingly companionable silence, only the occasional whistle from the wind breaking it. "You have something to say." Lorkhan said at last, still not looking at the pony. He heard Fluttershy gulp, and nod her head.
"Are we friends?"
The question was so sudden, so shyly spoken yet out of the blue, that it actually attracted his attention. Lorkhan turned, Fluttershy's eyes widening as they met his. Her ears folded against the top of her head, and she floated back slightly as he continued to stare mutely at her. Then, a harsh gurgling sound began to emanate from the back of his throat, making the Warsmith's body shudder slightly. It took her a moment to realise Lorkhan was sniggering.
"Okay, maybe not friends." She giggled, relaxing slightly. "But...you're not that mean to me. In fact, I'd say you actually treat me pretty nicely, compared to your...um...friends." She paused, awkwardness making her blush. "A-and you've come to see me a few times, to make me things...that was nice as well." She smiled at him, brushing a strand of pink hair behind her ear. "Sometimes I...I think you guys are awful, just awful...but others, you're actually not that bad..." She shied away slightly, as if suddenly worrying whether she had offended the towering Warsmith.
He watched her for a few moments more, Mechantendrils hanging back and staying close to his silver plate. When he spoke, it was his turn to pull something out of the air.
"Would it surprise you to know that the Iron Warriors have a concept of beauty?"
Only the briefest hint of melancholy touched his voice, but it was enough to attract her full attention. From the soft intake of breath, and the way she tilted her head told him it did. "Maybe not in the way Guilliman, or Sanguinius' Legions enjoyed fine art or polishing their armour. But aye, in an artillery barrage delivered in perfect crescendo, or an enemy buried in their own trenches by precise bombardment and displacement of earth, there was beauty in that."
She edged closer to him, clearly intrigued by even this slight opening up. "All I mean is, we take pride in seeing a job through to the end. We built your house back up from where we had torn it down; I wanted to see it done right." He said, quicker than he expected.
"And...it feels good to create again." He added, in little more than a murmur.
Space Marines were trained to know no fear, but Lorkhan could not stop himself from flinching as she wrapped her hooves around his neck. It was the swiftest of embraces, over in seconds, but Fluttershy had still noticeably reddened as he turned to look at her with as much bewilderment as his helmet could convey.
"Well...u-um...I just...I..." she stammered, her old fearful disposition reasserting itself in force. Lorkhan bristled, turning away again and resting his axe on his shoulder.
"Don't touch me." He growled, helm-vox masking any subtler emotion his voice may have held. She rubbed her arm nervously, turning to watch the Warsmith start to walk away.
"I just...o-oh my...I know this must be really hard for you, Mr Lorkhan." She said meekly. "Being here, I mean. But I thought that...if I was kind to you...you might start being friendly back."
He did not turn to her, still as a statue for a long time. Eventually though, the metallic sniggering noise started again. In moments the tranquil night was pierced by an unusual sound; the Warsmith of the Thirteenth Grand Company throwing back his head, and actually laughing.
"In ten thousand years of war...you are the first creature to ask for my friendship." He said, still chuckling as he shook his head. He favoured the butter-coloured Pegasus with a sidelong glance.
"If you were to burn, Xen...Fluttershy...then I think we would all burn together." |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | The Hammer and the Storm | "We are definitely on the wrong side...because both sides are wrong."
-Argel Tal, First of the Gal Vorbak, XVII Legion
"Zis is insane."
Vortun's pronouncement framed what Lorkhan was thinking well enough, and so he kept silent. The occasional clatters and creaks from the ship's superstructure that reverberated around the hold filled the quiet well enough as it was; even more so, when the pained moaning that danced on the edge of perception was factored in.
"It is certainly regrettable, sir," Mordecai agreed, eyes focused on the same point as the Obliterator's and the Warsmith's. "But, I fear, a grim necessity. Your brothers will thank you for it."
"Spare me the rhetoric." Lorkhan growled, clutching the glowing object in his hand. Bisecting the Crystal heart had been a simple task - one clean swing of his axe had split it into two halves. That had been the easy part of the process. "You know as well as I do that we cannot turn back now. We've committed."
"How do you know zis vill even vork?" Vortun queried, ever-mutating face looking down at the Warsmith. Lorkhan sighed, pulling as good a shrug as he could manage.
"One must not feel too despondent, sir." Mordecai said cheerily. "And I must say, using the remains of the wolves' bodies for the Engine was astute. Top show, indeed."
"I'm not much more of a fan of empty praise." Lorkhan muttered, eyes still focused on the wooden construct before him. "I have built better. Far better. And this...thing barely qualifies when compared to what we used to be able to get our hands on."
"That is...true, sir. But given the circumstances of its construction, a superlative effort if nothing else has been enacted on your part." Mordecai said reassuringly. The Warsmith's response was naught more than an angry sidelong glance.
"To answer your question, Vortun, I don't." Lorkhan conceded after a few moments. "The trinket that Zuko lost an arm for doesn't behave like any sort of power source I've tried to use before." Dying lights flickered overhead, bathing both the three Olympians and the construct before them in flashes of gloomy blackness. "On a scientific front, it seems to be powered by positive emotional energy and 'charge', for want of a better term...which sounds bloody inefficient to me, but also no longer surprises me considering what else we've seen, which is almost depressing." He paused, casting another look down at the stone fragment in his hand. Where once it had emitted a cool blue aura, now the glow was an angry red. "Binding any sort of Warp energy to it proved to be less than straightforward."
"Again, sir, I feel we are looking through rather a negative lens at this state of affairs." The Psyker put in. "One must remember that, in the end, you were able to successfully enact the required amalgamation. Our theoretical has thus far been sound in every calculation that we have run, and I cannot foresee any reason why things would begin to go belly up now."
"And you are certain that the soul we used is adequate?" The Warsmith inquired, almost hissing. He raised the half of the Crystal Heart he held to where his ear would be, tilting his helmet as if that would help. The agonised groaning could be heard a lot clearer now; no sound left the stone, but still Lorkhan could feel it rattle through his mind. Even after all the millennia, it still threatened to unsettle the veteran Astartes.
Mordecai nodded. "I agree that our friend Mr Discord was...less than co-operative to begin with, but I rather think that the time he has spent with the Burdened has made him a great deal more malleable, sir." He allowed himself a slight chuckle. "At the very least, I suspect the Neverborn have taught him a valuable lesson indeed concerning the dangers of rummy advertisement."
"God of Chaos mein arse." Vortun rumbled, by way of contribution. Lorkhan felt his remaining eye roll. He cast a look to the second half of the Crystal Heart, wrapped in cloth and set aside upon a nearby workbench, a wide exclusion zone of any other item formed around it. Unlike the half in which the Draconequus was bound, this one was silent; its occupant used to the constraint, and content to wait and watch like some coiled viper.
"Why's he so...groany, anyway?" Lorkhan asked. "He was trapped in stone, surely he should be used to it by now?"
"With respect sir, I daresay that the methods we have used, and intend to use, are rather more discomforting to the unfortunate chap than those forced upon him by the Princess and her supporters." Mordecai responded. "Particularly, the process of actually stripping the soul away with enough Warp energy remaining upon it required-"
"Oh save it, the last thing I want are specifics." Lorkhan said, holding up his free hand in a gesture of disgust. The three Iron Warriors were quiet for a moment, content to let the creaking noises fill the air as they were lost to their own introspections. "What about you, Vortun?" The Warsmith asked, not looking around at him. "The last time I asked you what you thought of this plan, you managed to dance around it with commendable agility considering what the hell's happened to you. Do you think this will work?"
Behind him, he heard the Obliterator's hulking body move in its interpretation of a shrug, whilst one of the arms morphed into some new death-device. "Vatever happens, mein Kapitan, it vill undoubtedly be on ze wrong side of hilarious." Lorkhan cast him a sidelong glance now, the 'skull' portion of his helmet grinning towards his mutated brother.
"You might be blessed, Vortun, but you're still more than a little creepy." Vortun's pulsing features cracked into an ugly, leering smile. Lorkhan looked back to his creation, taking another sigh. "This whole bloody thing is shit." He muttered with a shake of the head. Mordecai's vox made the tutting click of his tongue unmissable.
"Oh come now sir, I would expect such language from perhaps Rorke." Lorkhan laughed, a sound utterly devoid of humour.
"Where is he, anyway?" the Warsmith asked. Vortun shrugged again. Mordecai just looked away. Lorkhan did not pry, still standing motionless for a few moments more. Eventually he seemed to reach some sort of decision, taking slow steps forward to kneel beside one of the wooden monstrosities in the room with him. With gentleness uncharacteristic for an Iron Warrior, he traced an armoured finger around an open crevasse in its chest. The gap was just the right size for a small handful of stone.
"Iron Within." The two voices from behind surprised him; one deep and rumbling, the other polite and reserved. To hear such dissonant companions utter the Legion's words simultaneously stuck in the Warsmith's mind more than he would have liked to admit. Even so, he nodded in his crouch, placing a fist over his chest.
"Iron Without." He concluded. Any time for ceremony passed, and Lorkhan thrust the hand holding half the Crystal heart into the chest, twisting it and not removing the gauntlet until he was certain the possessed stone had been enveloped.
In the darkness of the Olympian Suns hold, something opened two burning eyes, and growled.
He found his brother alone.
Rorke paused as Zuko came into view. The other Iron Warrior leant over the nearby railing, the ship below them dropping away into a darkened pit. One of his hands was, as ever, gloved in a chevroned power fist, whilst the other emitted the tell-tale hiss and clicks of a fresh bionic. The tattered red cloak still hung from his shoulders, though all Rorke could see of the Marine's helmet was due to the illumination provided by the burning cigar held loosely between his fingers. Zuko turned to look at Rorke as he approached, eventually offering him a grim nod. Rorke's response was merely to stare.
"You never take that off." He said at last, coming to stand beside Zuko and stare into the depths of their home. Neither looked at the other.
"Truly, brother, you and your observational talents are an asset to us all." Zuko replied, without a hint of sarcasm. "Although I admit I've no idea whether you're referring to the helmet or the cape."
"Both." His brother said. "Although the cape makes you look like more of a fucking idiot than the helmet."
To his veiled surprise, Zuko nodded. "Aye, perhaps it does." Rorke didn't get a chance to inquire further before his counterpart went on. "I like them. Isn't that enough reason to keep them, brother?" Rorke's response was an unintelligible grunt.
Zuko took another deep breath, looking down into the pit again. "I suppose you've heard about what Lorkhan's doing, then?" he asked.
"Heard you punched the witch." Rorke replied. Zuko's bionic arm twitched slightly as if in response. "Heard it was a damn good punch. I almost envy you."
Zuko was unable to stop himself chuckling at that, though it was mirthless. "Don't tell me we actually have something in common besides our gene-seed, brother?" he asked, shaking his head.
"I certainly hope not." Came Rorke's drawled response. Zuko shrugged, pauldrons rising awkwardly.
"Yes, I did punch him." The sergeant confirmed. "And I suspect you're not the only one who finds it funny, Rorke. In any case, after the Warsmith bolted this arm onto me, it feels like I've been put on the naughty step. The others don't speak to me; I've not even seen Varvillon since I got back."
"He's not here." Rorke said simply. That did make his brother look round, his helmet tilting to the side slightly in questioning.
"He's off hiking in those mountains to the north." Rorke told him, sounding annoyed at being pulled into a conversation. "Something came up."
"And I don't suppose you're going to tell me what it is, are you." Zuko concluded, looking away again. Rorke's silence was answer enough. The two Iron Warriors observed their own silence for several long, drawn out moments, each one casting crimson glares into the blackness.
"This is wrong." Zuko said at last, not meeting his brother's gaze. Rorke did his best to quiet the sigh, his own hand twitching and spasming slightly.
"Shut the fuck up, Zuko." He said in a tired voice. The other Marine chuckled again.
"Why? Because you know I'm right? Apologies, brother, I know what a sensitive soul you are."
"We're finally doing exactly what we should have done a long time ago." Rorke told him. "I'm not the one getting squeamish over a little bloodshed. Besides, the Gods-"
"-Your Gods." Zuko said harshly, rounding on him and fixing the Champion with as angry a glare as his helmet would allow. "They're your shitting Gods. Not mine, brother."
Now it was Rorke's turn to snigger. "You've never had a problem using their gifts before."
"That's what you think." Zuko corrected, with a shake of the head. "I've never thought this was a good idea. I haven't thought a single thing we've done since the Siege was a good idea."
"What has gotten into you lately?" Rorke snapped. "You're going soft. You used to be aggravating enough, but at least you could fight worth a damn. Now you're shying away from killing a few - deserving - Xenos."
" 'Xenos'." Zuko parroted, genuine amusement creeping into his voice. "Xenos, Xenos, Xenos. You all keep using that word, and I'm not sure any of you know what it means. Riddle me this, Rorke, if they're the 'Xenos'...then why are they more human than we ever were?" His voice had dropped to a whisper as the tip of a power talon poked the other Champion in the chest.
"I-" Rorke began, but Zuko wasn't done.
"I meant what I said to Mordecai, brother. I hate this Legion. I hate this Legion, I hate everyone in it, I hate what we've come to represent. This is not what I signed up for when we joined Horus, Rorke, and I'm pretty damn sure it wasn't what the Primarch wanted either. Is it so wrong to remember the original mission? Get to Terra, break the haughty, kill the False Emperor - that's what I believed in, why I fought. Our brothers bled and died to make a better, fairer Imperium. And how do we repay them? We spend what's left of the Legion's strength attacking people and species that can't fight back - not because it has any strategic value, but just because it makes us feel better and takes our minds off how utterly worthless our lives are." He paused for a moment in his tirade, sighing heavily as he looked down. When he spoke again, his voice was quiet, and as close to mournful as a Space Marine could ever get. "We started off as well-intentioned rebels, knowing we'd have to do bad things, but fighting for freedom against an institution that was corrupt and genuinely deserved to be extinguished. Then, we were forced to become pirates, trying to complete the original mission whilst also fighting for our lives." He looked back up at Rorke, and though his gaze seemed to have lost some of its vitriol, it was still far from joyous. "We were all those things, brother...when did we become evil?"
The question hung in the air between them, like an electric crackle that would have jolted any skin were it exposed. Rorke stepped back a little, snout nosed helmet looking his brother up and down. "I'll be fucking honest here, Zuko...I didn't come to debate Legion philosophy with you." The other Iron Warrior nodded, almost glumly.
"I've known why you're here since the moment you arrived." Zuko admitted.
It was all he could do to stumble back as Rorke leapt at him, the power sword drawn with remarkable fluidity and already raining blows at Zuko's head. The Astartes kept trying to retreat as Rorke pushed him back, leaving the railings where they had been stood and being forced down one of the Olympian Suns' labyrinthine side-corridors, the energy fields of the two weapons sparking off one another where they collided.
By all rights, in such cramped confines the power fist should have granted Zuko the advantage, its bludgeoning power better suited to the environment than the sweeping arcs favoured by swords. Yet Rorke was a blur of furious steel, devoid of any finesse or even skill as he chopped down towards his brother in rapid, frenzied succession. He gripped the pommel two handed, both lending weight to his blows and making it near impossible for Zuko to grapple and disarm him. Whenever he did manage to establish a grip, the force of Rorke's body shunting into him as enough to make him let go.
He could not block forever, and there was no room to dodge. Rorke's advance was frentic, yet utterly focused, burning red eyes never once leaving Zukos'. He took step after step after step, each one placing his brother more and more on the defensive. The sound of clashing power fields and metal on metal rang through the venerable Strike Cruisers' halls.
Their brawl eventually carried them through into a wider room, door sliding open to allow them access. Perhaps ironically, the pair of clashing Astartes found themselves within the ships' Armorium; had either of them been in any position to look, they may have noticed the vast majority of weapons had been removed, leaving only the choicest items. The human detritus that toiled within gave the warring demi-gods a fearful expression, rushing to evacuate. One was not quick enough, and had his chest accidentally crushed by Zuko's backswing for his troubles.
Capitalising on the open space, Zuko tried to retake the initiative, clenching his fist and swinging at Rorke's head in a wide right hook. The maddened Astartes only just managed to duck beneath the blow, but it gave him the opening needed as he brought his sword in an uppercut motion. The blade moved seamlessly, leaving a deep vertical slice on Zuko's chest plate. The stricken Marine did not have time to respond before Rorke went on the attack again, cutting another line across the width of Zuko's helmet. Sparks flew from the damage the powered blade left, seeming to almost blind Zuko temporarily. A couple of brutal kicks reduced him to one knee - it took Rorke grabbing one of the horns sprouting upwards from Zuko's helm, and using it as a handle to bring his brother's face slamming into his rising knee to force him onto the other. A couple of artless backhands and punches were enough to seemingly stun Zuko, the sergeant driven to kneel and pant hard and painfully. The murderous onslaught of the sword-wielding Marine stopped, and Rorke stepped back; a hunter, taking the measure of his wounded prey.
"Good afternoon, brothers." Rorke's helmet-vox crackled into uneasy life, though in his current state he only half heard it. He was just about able to recognise Barbus' voice. "Everyone's favourite bastard Sorcerer has kindly requested our presence on deck. Don't ask me where the Warsmith is, you won't like the answer...oh, and Rorke. What's taking you so long?"
The feed went dead. Rorke's face twitched as much as the rest of his body in mild irritation, but his attention was soon captured by the other Iron Warrior. He could not be certain, but something from Zuko's slump told him he had heard that too. Hearing that Barbus - perhaps the only brother Zuko had still trusted, after all this time - was aware of whole thing had seemingly done more damage than any sword blow.
"Ah, Zuko..." Rorke's voice was shaky and erratic, but he was able to exercise just about enough will to maintain some semblance of sanity through the red mist. Something at the back of his mind told him it would be the last time he would be able to do so. The knowledge did not bother him. "So fucking righteous. So noble, honourable even. So quick to blame others for your own faults. You had every chance to walk away...every chance to say no...and instead you went along with the whole thing, whining and crying and complaining about us every step whilst committing all the same sins. We...we can't have anyone threatening to stand against us. Not now we've come so far." He slowly managed to shamble forward, tip of the blade trailing on the ground. "Maybe it wasn't us that was the problem. Maybe it was you, and your inability to accept that times changed. You speak about the Gods like they're some evil force to be denied, whilst leeching off those who don't give a shit about imaginary notions of honour that we supposedly possessed." He drew level with his brother, stamping down on the power fist. Zuko looked up the other Champion; the hatred in his red lenses mixed with a thousand other emotions. "You've fought in their armies and alongside their boons, but you've never once believed." Rorke went on, voice a demented whisper now. "So let me enlighten you." He raised his sword, placing the crackling tip in part of the groove on the chest his earlier strike had left.
"Blood," The Champion slurred, "for the Blood God."
He thrust the sword forward, power field once more cutting through armour like paper and erupting from Zuko's back and through his cape in a miniature spray of gore. The Iron Warrior's body tensed, vaguely aware of his heart exploding in his chest as it was pierced by the crackling blade. Rorke stayed for a few moments more, slowly twisting the sword within his brother's cracked sternum. Finally, he yanked the blade back out with no hint of gentleness, taking a step back. Zuko stayed kneeling as he was for a moment, staring blankly forward and emitting strange gargling noises as the blood rushed into his throat and out his mouth. Then he keeled forward with a crash, a river of red running out from under him and spreading across the armoury's floor. The rich liquid pooled at Rorke's feet.
The remaining Astartes stayed motionless, sword in hand, for a few moments more as he watched Zuko's body. Yet it did not rise, or even stir. Were he a World Eater perhaps, he would still have fallen upon it in frothing rage to tear it limb from limb. Maybe if the IV were sentimental, he would have instead stayed to pay it a moment of ever-respectful silence.
When he was certain, Rorke turned with a grunt and marched from the room, leaving bloody footprints in his wake. The doors slammed closed behind him as he left, locking what remained of his Legion's last loyal son in darkness.
"Sweetie Belle!"
Rarity's shrill voice echoed throughout the boutique, meeting with nothing but empty air. The Unicorn pouted for a moment, irritated by her sister's silence, when realisation crept back to her. Her pout morphed into a downcast frown, and she could not stop herself from sighing wistfully as she closed the door behind her. It was quiet without Sweetie and the other Crusaders around...more so than she'd like to admit. Rarity consoled herself with the knowledge that they should indeed be back from whatever camp they were on soon, but even so her home felt decidedly empty.
She placed the groceries that had been levitating beside her down on the kitchen counter, the blue magical glow around them dissipating. She sighed again, standing up on her hind legs and resting her forehooves on the counter in a moment of reflection. She willed it to pass, turning her gaze skyward and flicking her wavy purple mane elegantly. An afternoon of work in her imagination room would help remedy these blues, Rarity decided, as she felt the hint of a smile pull at her lips.
She froze, eyes wide, as something clattered to the floor in the next room. Those noise had been unmistakeable, and in the unicorn's mind a thousand thoughts raged, each one more worrying than the last. Ignoring, for once, the sweat that now dirtied her brow, and her trembling lower lip, Rarity steeled herself and slowly began to pace towards the door. She reached out with her magic to envelop the nearest object that could be weaponised - in this case, a long wooden spoon. From behind the door, the noise could still be heard. She breathed out heavily, trying in vain to calm her racing heart.
The door swung open as the crouching giant within raised back up to his full height, the grey robe that hung around his legs blowing gently in the draft. He seemed to have been setting something, though Rarity could not see what. It took a considerable amount of self-control not to spring at him or yelp in fear, and Rarity took another deep breath, burying her confusion and annoyance under a broader grin now.
"Mordecai, darling." She began, swallowing. "How...pleasant to see you. Though I must say, such an entrance is not the traditional method of paying one a visit here in Ponyville."
The sorcerer did not reply immediately as he looked at her, and though his body language was as controlled and tight as always Rarity thought she detected some slight change in his manner; almost a sharpening of the Iron Warrior's posture.
"Have I ever told you of our kin in the XVII Legion, my lady?" He asked at last, red eyes focused on her. Rarity blinked in surprise at his words, letting go of the spoon without thinking. Her eyes flickered away for a moment as the uncomfortable feeling began to rise in her gut.
"Um, I...that is to say...n-no, I don't believe so." She replied, feeling the smile that she didn't believe in crack her face further. Mordecai nodded, ambling from the room and into the kitchen at a leisurely place. Rarity gulped again as he passed, running a marshmallow-esque hoof through her air.
"No, I cannot imagine I would have done." He said. Much like the last time he had visited her, the sorcerer began to stare out the window, and Rarity realised that there had been something different in his tone. The cheerful edge had gone, and though it was still nothing but polite it was now almost...mournful. "They are not anything we of Olympia like to discuss. The Word Bearers, they name themselves - far too esoteric and fanatical for the liking of an Iron Warrior." He paused, seemingly lost in reverie. "I must admit though, I have always found them more tolerable than many of my brothers do. Perhaps it is due to our shared fascination for the Warp, but in any case, I have had ample opportunity to study with the most darkly accomplished of their Apostles."
Rarity nodded dumbly, padding at the ground nervously. The suspicion that something was wrong here had become an absolute certainty, and though she didn't know what was wrong she knew she had to get out. The Unicorn began to make her way back towards the door with painstaking slowness, clear blue eyes still locked on the occupied Astartes.
"It was the Word Bearers who first discovered that the sentience found within the Warp is not subject to random, indecipherable chance." He went on, hand clasped behind his back. "Though with a name such as 'Chaos', one would be forgiven for thinking so. The Gods are very much watching, and with sufficient rites -with supplication, with ritual - we may invoke some portion of their favour to aid us."
"I...see." Rarity said, trying to hide her rising panic.
"One in particular has always stuck out to me, though I confess the reasons why have never been apparent. It was learned from a warrior of the XVII named Sorot Tchure, a man who was at one time a close correspondent of mine." Mordecai explained. "It spoke of betrayal, of the nature of it. The Warp is sensitive to emotional change, you see. Every action that we sentient species commit ripples on its tides, stirring the realm beyond. And in betrayal, we find the most potent of shifts, the most poignant of sacrifices. It anoints and taints us, investing us with some measure of divine blessing. The spark that ignites the conflagration, as it were."
His words were the final straw, and Rarity made to turn and run, but the Space Marine was faster. Mordecai pirouetted, extending a hand towards her. Invisible telekinetic force smashed into Rarity, and she was thrown backwards with a squeal, and defying all odds managed to land seated on one of her dainty wooden chairs. The unicorn attempted to squirm, but the Psyker's power held her bound in place. She could not even move her hooves.
"For an ally to turn upon an ally is one level of betrayal." He went on, slowly walking towards her. Rarity's struggles stopped as she turned to stare at him open mouthed, heart hammering in her ears. His voice had changed, now seeming to be outright apologising. "But greater sacrifice could always be made. For a friend to turn upon another friend, to sin against someone who had actually come to trust them? That is the most powerful of betrayals. A pact signed in actions that can never be forgiven."
He crouched beside her, the helmet's red eyes meeting hers that were now glistening with frightened tears. "Can I...get you anything?" he asked, and for once Mordecai sounded almost unsure. "Would you like some tea?" Rarity could only pant in response, trying to stop herself crying as her mouth moved wordlessly.
"Please..." she managed at last, in an emotion-cracked whisper. "Mordecai, darling...why...please, w-why are you doing this?"
He sighed, looking down at the floor, before standing back up. Rarity saw his hand move to rest at the holster by his side. "My brothers, for the majority, have never had the inclination to beseech the Warp for aid." He told her. "They do not see it as the Iron Warrior's way. Yet, I have always been of the belief that without the Gods, our Legion cannot evolve to deal with those who would do us harm...and it never hurts to hedge one's bets with the winning side."
The sorcerer drew the small pistol from its holster, casting a look at it. Rarity's breath caught in her throat and she saw it, and she gave one last thrash against the psychic bonds. It was to no avail. Mordecai hesitated a moment longer before flipping the safety off, aiming the barrel straight at Rarity's temple. The unicorn struggled to breath as she stared into the metal-rimmed hole.
"I truly am sorry." The sorcerer told her. The worst part was, she knew it was sincere. "And it really is nothing personal."
"W-what was that?" Fluttershy squeaked, wings flapping involuntarily as she nestled closer to Lorkhan's legs. The Warsmith did not reply, staring forward as the wind ripped around him. He knew the sound of a bolt pistol firing well enough by now. Overhead, thunder rumbled; the Pegasi seemed to have scheduled a grim black pall for this autumn day. It seemed to be coincidence, but if Mordecai's babbling had been accurate, the weather was strangely fitting.
She had come to call on him shortly after his project had been completed. There had been snickering from his brothers, and embarrassment on Lorkhan's part, but he had found himself compelled to go. It couldn't hurt for a moment of relative peace. Not now. They stood on one of the grassy hills overlooking her fortress-house and the remains of the Sun, Ponyville not far off in the distance. It looked quiet from here, and for the first time in his life Lorkhan found he could use the word 'idyllic' completely un-ironically.
"I-it came from the town!" the flustered yellow Pegasus stammered, hair draping over one of her eyes. "Oh my, I hope the others are okay! Twilight gets so flustered when things like this happen, and she's been so stressed lately, what wi-"
"She'll get over it." The Warsmith said bluntly. Fluttershy gave another frightened squeak, nodding.
"I-I guess...I mean, she has got Spike and everything..." Fluttershy said, nodding. A frown crossed her face. "Although...I-I haven't seen him for an awfully long time now..."
"The lizard and you are close?" Lorkhan asked, looking down at her. She nodded, shying away a little.
"Oh, Spike's a wonderful friend...most dragons are really scary, but he's not scary at all!" she told him, speaking almost at normal volume. The Warsmith was quiet for a moment longer, leaning on his axe as he considered her words.
"I know what that sound was." He said at last, looking away. Fluttershy tilted her head, big green eyes watching him. "My brother just shot one of your friends."
The wind picked up around them, running off the Iron Warriors' armour and ruffling the ponies' fur.
"What?" She asked, though even he struggled to hear her. "I...I don't understand." The look of hurt in her eyes was palpable, the pleading expression reminding Lorkhan of someone from long ago. He pushed the memory to the side, looking down at the pony. Her ears and wings had flattened against her body, and she was now visibly shaking, almost on the verge of hyperventilation. For once his Mechatendrils did not snap at nothing, the snake-like tendrils hanging back warily.
"My brother has murdered your friend in order to invoke some form of ritualistic significance, and as a signal for the Iron Warriors to begin madness that we are about to undertake." He told her, keeping his voice as level and emotionless as he could. Comprehension seemed to dawn in Fluttershy's eyes, and with t a superb grasp of the obvious.
"You're...you're going to kill us." She said, looking up t him. Lorkhan made no swift move to respond.
"It gets worse." He told her. She didn't have time to react before a second noise drew her attention, drawing the pony to look for its source with a gasp.
With an ominous rumble, one of the few gun hatches that remained on the corpse of their flagship ratcheted open. The sound of claw on steel could be heard, even from this distance, as could the near-animalistic whines coming from within. Fluttershy was rooted to the spot as the dark shape pulled itself out. It was huge and wooden and horrible, eyes glowing with an inner light as it gave an almighty flap of enchanted timber wings that should never work. Emerald fire spewed from between its jagged teeth, and yet the creature did not set alight. Lorkhan was distinctly aware of Fluttershy's whimper as the Heldrake threw back its head and unleashed an ear-piercing shriek that rocked the world.
"A-a dragon?" She stammered, looking she was about to faint. "You...you built one?"
"No." Lorkhan replied. He carried on, even though she was already running by the time the second draconic daemon engine pulled its way free from its iron cocoon. "I built two." |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Mortmain | Mordecai made it about two steps from Rarity's house before the little blue comet crashed into him.
Even as a Space Marine, an 8ft tall mountain of engineered muscle and ceramite, the sheer momentum of Rainbow Dash's dive was able to knock him off his feet; impressive within itself. The sorcerer found himself knocked onto his back, the Pegasus's forehooves slamming into his helmet at a meteoric pace. They weren't actually hurting him, more just staggering the warlock momentarily, but it wouldn't have been gentlemanly to say as such.
"WHAT! DID! YOU! DO! TO! RARITY?!" Rainbow's words were snarled through gritted teeth as she maintained her assault, angry magenta eyes only a few scant centimeters from Mordecai's crimson eye lenses. He did not reply, instead letting loose a small amount of telekinetic force. It wasn't enough to injure the pony, but did prise her off him, and the Space Marine took the opportunity to stand and dust himself down. He drew his sword as he looked at Rainbow, tutting and shaking his head in seeming disappointment.
"Squabbling in the dirt? Really, such things are below us, my girl."
The impact of their collision hadn't been consequence-free for her either. Her hair was more a tattered, unkempt mess than usual, and she was quite clearly panting hard. A red gash had opened on her forehead, lines of blood trickling down and threatening to drip into her eyes. She didn't seem to notice.
"What...did...you...do?" Rainbow repeated, voice now an angry hiss. Mordecai's head tilted sideward as he regarded her, the runes on the side of his blade flaring into glowing, unholy life. His free hand made a flourishing gesture - he held it beside his head, as if clutching an imaginary glass.
"Your curiosity does you credit, I must say. Permit me to demonstrate."
He clutched with his hand. Rainbow bristled, as if expecting an assault. In that she was wrong; the psychic energy Mordecai marshaled was not intended for her. That was saved for the mechanisms of the grenades he had set up in the building behind him.
Carousel Boutique exploded from within, the explosives giving an almighty roar as they detonated. The blast of air rustled the robe he wore around his lower body, and though he possessed no precognitive powers Mordecai was quaintly proud that he did not flinch as shards of burning building came crashing down around him.
"Most apologetic, if it is any consolation." He said, contritely. Rainbow stared at him open-mouthed, the anger seemingly drained from her momentarily and replaced by the pain of loss. It quickly returned, and she snorted, nostrils flaring.
"I knew it..." she said, glare intensifying. "I knew you guys were up to no good, no matter what Fluttershy or Rarity said. I didn't think you'd ever go this far, though...Twilight was right."
Mordecai nodded. "It is rather one of those things that makes far more sense in hindsight." He agreed. Rainbow shook her head, clearly having to restrain herself. A small group of onlooking Ponies had formed around the two combatants by now, looking on nervously and edging away.
"I'm going to bucking kill you, you freak." She said, and Mordecai could not help but be impressed that she sounded like she actually believed it. He straightened slightly, stabbing the point of the sword into the ground and resting both hands on its pommel.
"You will certainly try, my dear, of that there is no doubt...though, I rather think you have greater concerns at present." He said, nodding skyward. As if on cue, the twin roars once again shook the planet, and dark shadows passed over Ponyville. The two Heldrakes swooped low, witchfire-bright eyes scanning the ground and groups of panicking Xenos hungrily. One pulled up sharply, before coming to rest atop the Town Hall. It stared down imperiously from its perch, crouched like some great wooden Gargoyle or nesting raptor. Its brother sailed over Mordecai and Rainbows' heads, a blast of jade flame from its jaws setting more of the town's thatched buildings ablaze. Even having handled the more esoteric elements of the Daemon Engines' construction, Mordecai was still unsure how they were able to produce their breath weaponry - no baleflamers had survived the crash to be installed. Lorkhan seemed to subscribe to the policy of just not thinking about it, or declaring it another 'pathetic joke' by the Gods when he was feeling particularly vindictive.
Mordecai watched it go, shaking his head disapprovingly. "So very crude." He murmured, almost wistfully. "Yet one cannot deny their effectiveness in our chosen strategy." He paused as the HUD within his helmet brought him updates. "Ah, wonderful, it would appear the cavalry have arrived."
The sound of barking bolters heralded the arrival of more IV Legionaries, advancing into the clearing where Mordecai stood with cold, murderous intent. Bolt shells slammed into the mass of fleeing Xenos, ripping them apart from the inside, whilst yet more destructive tools of war spoke. The Iron Warriors had taken the opportunity to break out the best weapons for this mission, and Mordecai grimaced sympathetically as a dark blue creature was all but annihilated by a direct Lascannon hit. One of the Ponies, a grey mare with a musical note on her flank, dropped what looked like a pile of music sheets as she ran. Her attempts to recover them proved her undoing; one of the Iron Warriors, a brother Mordecai did not know well, stepped forwards and brought the Power Maul he gripped in one hand down in a sweeping arc. The cudgel slammed into her side, splintering bone and sending her careening into a wall.
Rainbow watched the devastation wrought upon her kin around her, and for a moment Mordecai thought she was going to fly into a maddened rage and attack him or his brothers again. But she did not, though maintaining her composure was clearly requiring the utmost effort. It occurred to Mordecai that before him was the element of Loyalty; small wonder then that she'd thrown herself into the fight with such little hesitation.
"If you would permit me to say, I would wager that you are needed elsewhere, my dear Rainbow." He called across to her. She looked at him, teeth visibly grinding together as she glared at him once more. Then in a flash she was gone, a trail of rainbow-coloured light left behind her as she dashed away in pursuit of the closest Heldrake. Mordecai watched her go this time, pulling his sword from the ground and resting it on his pauldron. The introspection lasted for only a few moments, before the Psyker refocused, and ambled his way over to join the slaughter.
"And you're certain?"
A buzz hung in the chamber, high in one of Canterlot Castle's elegant towers, but still the question hung in the air. Celestia's voice cut through the commotion and babbling of the other Ponies' clustered in the room. It was as ever regal and firm, yet there was an inflection in it that Shining Armour had seldom heard before. The Captain of the Guard knew the Princess better than most, perhaps anyone save Luna and his sister, but it was one of the first times he had heard her sound...unsure.
"You know that it is." Luna's voice was different too. The repressed fury in it was obvious, even to the most casual observer. "Foul sorcery abounds throughout our fair land. The Iron Warriors stand against us."
The Princess of the Sun looked at her sister for a moment, face steady as she sought to process the information she had been oh-so-bluntly given. Without warning, her head drooped, and the white Princess gave a mournful sigh. It made Shining uncomfortable; morale was balancing on a knife edge as it was. Even with all things considered, the speed and suddenness of the Iron Warrior's attack had sent most of the denizens of Canterlot reeling and into a state of floundering panic. To see Celestia succumbing to the same distress, even for a moment, could have catastrophic effects when it came to maintaining some semblance of order in the Capital.
Mercifully, she seemed to recover her resolve quickly. "Who have we lost?" She asked, the tone maternal, yet steeled and grim. There was another rise in the general buzz throughout the chamber.
"Half of Ponyville's already gone, my Princess." A brown bare called out, eyes scanning the piece of paper before her. "They've deployed some kind of...of dragon-machines. I-I don't what they are, but they're already hitting us far too hard." She gulped, scanning over the report more. "They're...o-oh my...they're slaughtering everypony." She took a breath, clearly struggling to maintain composed. "We've lost so many, including the Element of Generosity. Iron Warrior casualties at...at zero, Princess Celestia."
"They've murdered Rarity?" Celestia asked, shock evident in her voice. "That's low, even for them." She mumbled, shaking her head.
"One has to inquire how thoust is receiving this information, dearest sister. " Luna piped in, voice fiery. Celestia turned to her, once again seemingly ignorant of the onlooking Ponies.
"I've been making sure to keep an eye on them ever since they arrived, Luna." She replied, eerily calm by comparison. "You didn't think I'd just give them the run of the place, did you? The moment they got back from the Everfree forest, I've made sure a team of trained Unicorns has been watching them and keeping a weather eye. It seems that that is now paying dividends."
"Such words are all well and good, Celestia." Luna retorted. "Yet thou must consider whom it was that allowed such a travesty as this to occur?"
It was only the tiniest of motions, but Shining caught Celestia's bristle. "Now is not the time to be placing blame, Luna-" she began, almost defensively.
"Nay!" The Princess of the Night's rebuttal was punctuated by a stamp of her hoof on the stone floor. "I consider it the perfect time, dear sister! All that has happened, all we now face, it is on thy head!" She screamed, pointing at her sister. "Thou had your chance to do what was right, to excise this evil from the face of Equestria, yet thy chose to hold thy tongue and let murderers and madman cavort freely with our fair subjects. Now, it is they that pay the price. All that transpires here is your fault, Celestia!"
The silence was deafening. Even those ponies busily collecting reports and data froze, eyes locked on the bickering goddesses. Shining could hear his heart pounding in his head. At last, it was Celestia who broke eye contact with a heavy sigh and nod. It lessened the tension, but only slightly.
"You're right, Luna." She said in a sad, quiet voice. It was still heard by all present. "This is all my fault. And now, I am going to fix it." She straightened, once again affecting a regal air. "Commander Riptide, Commander Silver Spear." Two of the other Guard Ponies in the room rose, clicking their hooves together. "How many divisions of those prototype tanks you're so keen on do we have in reserve?" She asked.
"Five, my lady." Riptide replied. The Princess nodded.
"Deploy all of them." She said simply. The two Guards blanched for a minute, casting a wary look at one another.
"A-all of them, my lady?" Silver Spear asked, momentarily forgetting himself. Celestia's voice never rose.
"Did I stutter, Captain?" They took the hint, bowing and galloping from the room. Celestia looked around, a glance enough to send the rest back to work.
"Luna?" She asked, surprised, as she saw her counterpart follow them. "Where are you going?" The princess stopped, but didn't turn.
"To see to our soldiers on the walls." She answered. "To fight this war, Celestia. Like you should have." She left before any more argument could take place. Shining waited for a minute, unsure what to do, before moving after her.
"Stay, captain." Celestia said, not unkindly. He complied immediately, turning to look at his monarch. Celestia's expression was mournful, at best.
"They will come here, Shining." She said, with a weary resignation. "I know Lorkhan, even after this short time. He will need to finish this himself, to come here. We will need to be ready for that." He nodded, an uneasy silence falling between the two. "I am sorry for your loss, Captain." Celestia said, even gentler this time.
He paused before nodding. He hadn't liked to think about what had happened to the Crystal Empire. All he knew was that they had lost contact-but he could guess the rest. For a time, his anger and grief had threatened to overwhelm his dedication to duty, the need to kill every Iron Warrior almost proving too strong; thankfully, he had resisted.
Just.
"You have something to say, Captain." Celestia observed when he didn't reply. "You know you have permission to speak freely, always." Shining's expression grew uneasy, and he cast an awkward look around to make sure he wasn't being overheard.
"I can keep the shield up, Princess." He started, warily. "But, if they really are going to come here...do you think we can stop them?" Her smile froze, and Shining realised he already knew the answer.
"No." Celestia said. "Not even for a second."
"Ah, brother, just the chap I was looking for."
Barbus didn't look at Mordecai as the sorcerer approached. His eyes remained focused on the sky, ignorant of the barking bolters and screaming ponies around him. The crimson eyes lenses were slowly covered in a thin film of rain.
"The Pegasi control the weather." He began, as Mordecai drew near. "And we're keeping them tied down. So what's with the storm, brother?"
Mordecai's answer was to turn his gaze heavenward also, staring into the black pall above them. Rolling storm-clouds rumbled almost in anger, the occasional flash of lightning splitting the sky. The rain had started off as a gentle sprinkle, but grew more and more intense as they went on - now pattering down all around them.
"What the hell have you done, brother?" Barbus hissed, finally making eye contact with Mordecai. The Psyker folded his arms, sending a fleeing pony crashing into a building with a casual glance.
"I appreciate your concern, brother." He admitted. "But I can assure you, my power does not extend to such meteorological miracles. Whatever this is is the spawn of outside influence."
"Like what?" The Iron Warrior growled. Mordecai was quite for a moment.
"I really couldn't say, brother."
Their attention was drawn away by the rushing wind of a swooping Heldrake passing overhead, followed by a large crash from behind. They turned just in time to see the Growler smash its way through one of the Pony dwellings without stopping, the dark shape atop it a veritable beacon of burning hellfire. Lorkhan had taken the tank for himself, planting his feet firmly down and riding it as one would a chariot. The Mechatendrils lashed around him in an almost frenzied buzz, spewing out the occasional lick of green flame. Any ponies that tried to flee past him fared little better, decapitated by low scything blows from the Warsmith's glowing axe.
"How very ostentatious." Mordecai muttered, seemingly more amused than anything. "Anyway, about that little favor." He went on, turning back to Barbus and clasping a hand to his pauldron. The other marine drew away, eyeing the sorcerer warily.
"Don't touch me." He hissed. Mordecai titled his head quizzically, but did not speak. Barbus looked away, racking the slide of his bolter.
"Zuko deserved better than that." He said, in a low, quiet voice. "He was my brother. He deserved better." He looked up again, anger returning. "And Lorkhan deserves to know."
"You know he would not approve." Mordecai said, seemingly regretful. "And in any case, I am afraid I must now ask you to undertake another questionable task." Barbus' silence seemed to mean 'go ahead' in Psyker-speak. "You recall that fortress we built?" Mordecai said, gesturing towards the hill in its general direction. "I'm afraid it has to be...removed. For the good of the Legion."
This time, Barbus out and out laughed. "He will kill us." He said, simply. "He will actually kill us."
"And perhaps he would be justified." Mordecai agreed. "Yet I must ask it of you anyway. Fluttershy, whilst an amicable young woman, commands the last true bastion against us. We have no choice."
"We always have a choice." Barbus pointed out. "One Marine for a whole fortress? Sounds risky. Why don't you do it?" Mordecai indicated to the passing Rhino.
"I fear my place is with him, brother. And with the best will in the world, I doubt Ms Fluttershy will be giving you all that much trouble."
Barbus was silent for a moment, the sound of explosions and gunfire rattling round the pair. "Fine." He grumbled at last, turning away. He slung the bolter over his shoulder, moving at an utterly leisurely pace. "But next time, do your own dirty work." |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Deum Ferrum | "Pinch me."
The tone in the voice of the Iron Warrior was one of derision, even outright amusement. Rorke barely heard it. The Champion's head pounded like some infernal drum dragged from the Immaterium, the pressure building inside feeling like it would burst free and consume him at any moment. As the blood roared in his ears, Rorke's vision swam with a haze of red; warping tendrils played in the corner of his eyes, whilst guttural whispers danced on the edge of hearing. Something deep inside told him that what was happening was probably bad, to recite the Unbreakable Litany and remember his duty as an Iron Warrior. He ignored that voice, too.
They had formed a makeshift barricade at the edge of town from the remains of shattered carts, houses, and masonry. It was a shoddy effort, one that would have been universally frowned upon by the Legion, but considering the situation at hand it had been judged more than adequate for task. Four of them were behind it now; Rorke's three brothers stood with weapons held at rest over their chests, watching the oncoming tide with typical cold dispassion. Rorke was hunched in a feral stoop, tip of the sword trailing on the ground - the energy field crackled as it blackened blades of grass. It was the first time it had truly been still since the attack began. All four seemed to be oblivious to the sounds of chattering bolters, revving chainblades and screaming Xenos emanating from behind them.
"Tanks? Blood of the Gods, they're actually going to deploy tanks against us?" the second Olympian asked.
"Of a sort." The third one said. This one sounded the least impressed of all, possibly owing something to the bronze gargoyle-mouthed Lascannon he held at his shoulder. What was left of the rational part of Rorke's brain tried to remember his brother's name. He couldn't. "Though to call them 'tanks' may be a compliment. They make the Eldars' vehicles look ironclad."
Considering what they had seen of the Xenos' military capability so far - besides a few guards, nothing - it wasn't an unimpressive armada arrayed against them. Had he bothered to count, Rorke would have noted at least fifty of the ramshackle wooden vehicles converging on their positions. They made an unmistakeable grating, clanking noise as they drew nearer, great belching torrents of steam coming from the hodgepodge array of chimney's protruding from the tops of the vehicles. There seemed to be little standardisation in their design. Some, mostly those lagging behind at the back, were outfitted with plates of steel armour, whilst others were not. Some had comically oversized cannons that could not hope to be used efficiently by such a low-tech species bolted to the top, whereas some were devoid of a turret altogether. Many bore names scrawled on the side - Clown Face, Mighty Mare, Fightin' Filly - yet the results of such primitive construction became apparent when one came to a spluttering halt more than ten metres from the outskirts of Ponyville. Two or three others also slowed down, to help their malfunctioning comrade.
Even after all this time, the Xenos' predilection towards helping one another was still bemusingly quaint.
"So, which of us gets to be the lucky man that relays this information to Lorkhan?" One asked. His voice sounded distant to Rorke, ringing in his ears. The Champion twitched.
"You think he needs us to tell him?" The Lascannon wielder again.
"Still, I suppose we should call the others." The last Astartes insisted. "If they're done engaging unarmed civilians in heroic battle, they might want to turn their attention to the planet's fearsome military."
"I lost track of them a while ago." One of them said. "Where the hell did Varvillon go?"
"Out."
"Barbus?"
"Not sure."
"Mordecai?"
"Don't care."
Their discussion was interrupted by an almighty roar from the heavens. As one, all four Iron Warriors, Rorke included, turned their blank gazes skyward. A streak of blue, a spectrum of light trailing in its wake, hurtled over their heads. Rainbow Dash paused in mid-air, wings flapping and straining to keep her aloft as she panted hard. She took off again in a burst of noise as the titanic Heldrake barrelled after him, licks of green fire snapping at the Ponies' tail. A beat of the Engine's wooden wings sent a gust of wind throughout the town.
They watched her fly, helmet-optics and enhanced senses allowing the Marines to keep her in their site. The Lascannon-toting warrior took a step forward and hefted the weapon skyward, bringing the targeting reticule up to a glowing red eye. The crosshairs lined up over her perfectly, keeping Rainbow firmly in their sites no matter the evasive manoeuvres she tried to escape the Dragon. He exhaled finger tensing on the trigger.
"Leave it." One of his brothers said, placing a hand on the barrel and lowering the fun. "It's not worth the effort. Besides, let the Burdened have its fun."
"Besides," The last Iron Warrior chuckled. "Isn't she Rorke's girlfrie-"
From his deceptively still position, Rorke rounded on him with lightning speed, spittle flying from his helmet grille as he brought a knee crashing into the Iron Warrior's midsection. The other two managed to hook their arms round his and drag him back before he could plunge his blade into his brother's face.
"Later." One hissed. Rorke slavered like an animal in their hold, but began to calm, though the sound of drums and baying hounds still echoed through his mind. Something occurred to him even in his fevered state. From the way they tensed, it seemed to occur to his brothers too.
"Has anybody noticed," One of them began. "That that clanking noise has stopped?"
The fusillade started a moment later. Cannonballs, smaller proto-bullets and bursts of magic of every colour hurtled towards the Iron Warriors; individually, they could not hope to even momentarily bother an armoured Space Marine, but a concentrated barrage of magical energy seemed more potent than any would have thought. The Iron Warrior that Rorke had assaulted barely got back to his feet before being slammed into to floor once more, the variety of shots buffeting him and leaving dents in his ceramite plate.
"Friendship should be nerfed." The heavy-weapon baring Iron Warrior growled, stepping out from his makeshift cover into the street and lining up another shot. This time he fired without hesitation. The lance of crimson light blasted from the mouth of the gun, spearing through the air and slamming straight into the prow of an approaching vehicle. One of the ponies managed to jump free before the craft was engulfed in an explosive fireball. It did him no good, a cartwheeling splinter of burning wood impaling him through the neck seconds later.
Rorke was already moving, judgement and reason lost to a miasma of red rage. He pulled himself up the side of one of the nearby houses that remained more or less intact, gauntleted hands easily penetrating the wooden walls. He reached the roof, screaming and howling like a World Eater as he sprinted towards the edge. Every step left a hole in the tiles. He reached the lip in little time, and with another frenzied cry hurled himself off towards the field of tanks below.
It was luck rather than planning that saved him. Several of the Equestrian vehicles joined their companion as flaming wrecks as the second Heldrake unleashed a torrent of baleflame, swooping low over the battlefield. Rorke grabbed onto one of its talons as he fell, left hand cracking the wood as it tightened. It was a precarious hold at best, and more than once even the Space Marine was threatened to be dislodged as the Daemon Engine banked and swooped. He used his sword as a scythe, decapitating any unlucky Pony who deigned to pop their head out a turret's cupola.
Eventually, something told him to let go, and he dropped through the roof of a lightly-armoured vehicle feet first. One of the Xenos was crushed instantly by his weight. Another fell to a slicing chop from the power sword. The last, a grey-maned creature, seemed to succumb to whimpering terror as the red eyed monster that set about him reached slowly towards his neck with an outstretched hand. A quick grip on the bone snapped it, soon silencing that problem.
Rorke stayed just long enough to plant the grenade before bursting from the side of the construct, not even slowing as it detonated behind him. One of the others was turning, cannon on top bringing the Space Marine into its sights. It fired a weighty ball of metal that clipped off his pauldron, staggering him for a fraction of a second. Rorke let loose a blood-curdling cry, throwing his sword end over end without slowing his pace. He vaulted atop the tank, then back off it as the blade sliced straight through and came to rest on the ground. He knelt to retrieve it, turning this time to admire his handiwork. The wooden beast ground to a halt, and was promptly wrenched from the ground and tossed away like some child's toy by a pass from the Heldrake.
More were coming. Some tanks kept on with their tasking, to be met by and destroyed upon the guns of his Iron Warrior brothers. Others pivoted to face the threat in their midst. Good. Let them come. Rorke slew indiscriminately, without thought or care. He was only vaguely aware of the blood that ran like a river at his feet and stained the ground red, genetically-engineered mind teetering on the edge of a precipice. The sword rose and fell, rose and fell, again and again. On the killing fields of Equestria, the tribute Rorke had offered -willingly or not - was realised in a furious roar erupting from his lips.
"BLOOD FOR THE BLOOD GOD! SKULLS FOR THE SKULL THRONE!"
"I say, would you care to join me for a sport of tea?"
"Be silent." Lorkhan growled, eyes still firmly fixed on the Rhino's tactical display. Mordecai shrugged off the Warsmith's abrasive tone with a typically stiff upper lip, taking another sip from his enamel-white cup. He tried his best to keep the noise to a minimum, in order to resist inflaming his Lord's temper further. It didn't seem to work.
"Can you truly not do that anywhere else?" The Warsmith snapped, finally rounding on his brother. They were both now safely seated inside the Growler's confines, armour appearing almost crimson in the red-tinted light. The Mechatendrils coming from Lorkhan's armour were huddled close around him, snapping and hissing like impatient children. The sorcerer did not seem to take offence from his chastisement, though as he levitated his helmet back over his head, his face was nonetheless a picture of concern.
"Let us be reasonable, old friend." He began in a level tone. Lorkhan growled at the word 'friend', but didn't interrupt. "I know you well by now. It is apparent that something is bothering you. Come, I would not have you suffer in silence."
Lorkhan was silent, eventually returning his attention to the glowing lights of the screens before him. Mordecai's response was an exaggerated, theatrical sigh. "I would wager it would be an improvement on just sitting here and doing nothing, sir."
It was true. After its initial rampage through the hordes of Ponyfolk, the Growler had been pulled into a secluded location and now just...waited. The engines still hummed their usual throaty noise, but they did not move even with the onset of Equestria's tanks. From what could be readily ascertained, Lorkhan was watching Canterlot; Mordecai hadn't questioned this, trusting his lord to know what he was doing. Even his patience was proving to have its limits, however.
"We just need to wait for the shield to fall." The Warsmith said. He sounded distracted, like he wasn't really talking to Mordecai. "Something will drop it, eventually. Then we can make our move."
"And all these explosive chemicals you have stashed back here?" The Psyker went on. That was something else they hadn't discussed; most of the Growler's troop compartment was filled with barrels of promethium, gunpowder, and whatever other volatile substance Lorkhan seemed able to have got his hands on.
"It's part of the plan." Lorkhan assured him. He made an indecipherable noise, though the first impression was one of irritation. "Where the bloody hell is Zuko? His helmet rune's blank, and every attempt to raise him on the vox has ended with less than sterling success." Perhaps it was his own imagination being over-active, but Mordecai could swear the eyes of Lorkhan's helmet grew more suspicious as they narrowed on him.
"A technological malfunction would seem the most likely cause of the calamity, sir." He lied. "No doubt he will join us for the final attack. One must consider that the final purge will take a considerable amount of ti-"
"'Final Purge'?" Lorkhan asked, sounding somewhere between disinterested and derisive. "What in the Primarch's name is that meant to mean?"
It actually took Mordecai a moment to respond. "Forgive me, my lord, but it stands to reason that the Warp will not be able to fully envelop this world if we do not provide it with a sufficient amount of sacrifice-"
"The Warp isn't going to envelop this world, Mordecai." Now Lorkhan's voice could be described as a growl. "I have no intention of turning this place into some Daemonspawn's playground, or feeding the souls of virgin innocents or whatever to your Gods. We are not staying to witness more of our blasphemy. What we are going to do is this; we are going to storm that castle, I am going to cut Celestia's head from her shoulders, and then we are going to find a way home and go back to the fights that matter. Do I make myself clear?"
"You are lucidity itself, my Lord." Mordecai's helmet was scant centimetres from Lorkhan's as he replied, and for once there was the faintest touch of frost in his voice. Several items that were not strapped down inside the tank quivered, as telekinetic energy leaked forth from the Sorcerer's frame. Lorkhan appeared - or pretended - not to notice, instead focusing back on the view before him. Canterlot still stood tall and proud on the side of a nearby mountain, the glowing purple shield surrounding it on all sides. It reminded Mordecai of when they had first come here, imprisoned and at Celestia's mercy - and then how they had accidentally defended the city and won a chance at life. It was only a few short months past, yet even to Mordecai the world seemed a very different place.
Any further reply was forestalled by a new, curious sensation. The ground reverberated audibly, each shockwave sending shivers up his armoured spine. The brown liquid in his mug shook and rippled with each rumble. He looked up, usually calm and placid features creased in a perplexed frown. Lorkhan wrenched the top hatch open, allowing the two Space Marines to pop their heads out and get a better look.
"You asked what we were waiting for," The Warsmith said with more than a hint of smugness. Mordecai could only stare as he pointed. "That ought to do it."
"The rain is falling up."
Varvillon's observation drew the attention of his brothers as he approached. The group of four Iron Warriors stood in a small town square, flanked on all sides by burning buildings and the crushed remains of fountains and market stalls. They carried an eclectic mix of weapons - meltaguns, power mauls, a missile launcher - yet Varvillon approached armed with a classic bolter and chainsword combination, a sniper rifle slung leisurely over his back. His undefiled Mk 7 helmet scanned them in turn as he joined them, red eyes unblinking. They stared back.
He was not incorrect. The rain was falling upwards. What had begun as an impromptu, curious storm had now evolved into something far more sinister; the sky was stained red and rumbled with something they all chose to believe was thunder, whilst the rain had begun to emerge from the ground and flow upwards back into the heavens from where it should have come. Shadows danced and twisted at the edge of perception, whilst sounds that should not be there echoed if one did not block his mind against them. There was a general understanding of why this was, not that any dared speak it. In his heart, each Iron Warrior knew he carried with him the taint of the Warp. To introduce that to a land that had never before been exposed to such malevolence was like a virus from another planet - no immunity, no resistance...
No chance.
"I see your powers of observation have not diminished." One of them growled as Varvillon reached the squad. "Where in Perturabo's name have you been?"
"Tying up a loose end." He replied, bionic jaw making his chuckle distinctly mechanical. "You'll love it, I promise."
"I don't care what kind of rare orchid or whatever you've found." One of them muttered. "You missed most of this...I won't even call it a battle, that's far too generous." A general chorus of laughter emerged from their vox grilles. Varvillon remained stoic until they were done.
"Are one of you injured, brothers?" he asked. They looked at one another, not understanding. It took a gesture with his chainsword to make realisation dawn. "I only ask because you appear to be congregating outside the hospital. I thought one of you may have scraped his knee or something."
Ponyville hospital looked more like some mansion than a medical station, but the red cross on the board outside betrayed its function. Curiously, it had so far been untouched by the fighting, though the Iron Warriors had maintained a keen vigil to stop any refugees from seeking sanctuary within. "It's their last stronghold." One of them explained. "We've been sent to eliminate it."
"Then our thoughts are aligned." Varvillon retorted, this time devoid of humour. "I have a commemorative plaque to deliver." Again, they seemed bemused but he was in no mood to educate them. "Where's Vortun?" He asked, looking around. "We could use him."
The answer came when the charred remains of one of the Xenos exploded through a nearby wall, crumpling to the ground without grace. Vortun stalked through in his traditional stoop, the Lascannon sprouting from his arm still smoking. A maddened look twisted the Obliterator's fluid features. It was no surprise; the Heldrakes notwithstanding, the two remaining blessed warriors had easily racked up the highest kill count in the slaughter so far.
"Vat do you vant, you tardy shithead?" He asked, after he had calmed slightly. Varvillon didn't rise to the bait, already walking.
"We're going to the hospital." He informed him. "You used to be an Apothecary, you'll enjoy that." Vortun bristled at the mention of his past life, but did not argue as he fell into step with the other fourth legionnaires. As they approached, they launched a salvo of grenades - or in Vortun's case, a plasma cannon blast - through the windows. It had the desired effect, shrieks of fear cut prematurely short by the muffled sounds of explosions and glass being blown out. The Iron Warriors wasted no time in making entrance, kicking down the door with an utter lack of subtlety.
Unlike his brothers, who stayed to slaughter the various doctors and patients trying to flee down the corridors, or Vortun, who began to tear down support beams and set the building ablaze, Varvillon's path was straight and direct. His boot smashed through the wooden door of the doctor's office with little grace, the Space Marine forcing entry moments later. Doctor Wellwhinny was halfway through the window, in some desperate bid to escape, as Varvillon caught up to him. He yanked him back roughly, the pony hollering and struggling weakly as he grasped onto the white coat.
"Hello again." Varvillon said, keeping his tone level. "The donation proved most useful, the Legion thanks you."
"W-what are you doing?" Wellwhinny stammered as they left, other Iron Warriors and Obliterator falling in behind Varvillon once the slaughter was done and the building collapsing. "Where are you taking me?"
"I promised something to commemorate you." was Varvillon's reply. "I intend to keep it." Wellwhinny did not reply, but groaned in fear as they emerged back into the streets of Ponyville. Behind them, the hospital gave another groan as it fell in on itself.
"There's something that bothers me." One of the Astartes said, seemingly to break the quiet as they walked. He took the lack of response as a cue to go on. "In all the stories you here of battles like this, the peace-loving indigenous creatures always seem to have nature on their side." He inclined his head towards the Everfree forest, looming on the horizon. "Why isn't the world fighting back against us?"
They had to double back as Varvillon came to an abrupt stop, Vortun giving an irritated rumble. It took them a moment to realise he was chuckling again.
"You're going to love this." He promised, a curious intensity filling his voice. Their questions were forestalled by a new sensation - the ground rumbling and shaking beneath their feet at slow, ominous intervals. They turned to the source of the noise, not one able to formulate a response. Even Wellwhinny stopped thrashing and just stared.
The Hydra's heads erupted from the top of the Everfree's tree line, hissing and snapping with teeth that even from a distance, looked ferocious. Yet, the monster was dwarfed by its sparring partner. It was a wolf that walked, the midnight black of his armour melted away by the burning pressures of re-entry. Teeth that could never bite glistened in its canine mouth, whilst its body was pock-marked by the scars of a thousand worlds. A single burning spark of red flickered in the centre of its dark eyes.
"That...that's a Warhound Titan..." One of the Iron Warriors said, completely unnecessarily.
"Ze Lupus Nox, to be precise." Vortun corrected, sounding only slightly more composed. "Vhere in ze name of ze Gods did you find a Varhound Titan?"
"Apparently, our friend in the Legio Mortis over there managed to survive the fall as the ship broke up when we arrived." Varvillon explained, eyes not moving from the Titan as it brought a clawed foot smashing down onto the Hydra. The beast roared in pain, heads thrashing wildly as it fell back. "Its crew perished, predictably, but when has that ever stopped us before? Mordecai's dalliances with the Immaterium seem to have given it the kick it needs." They took an involuntary step back as the Titan turned its eyes towards the mountains; and Canterlot high upon them. Throwing its head back, the God-Machine's warhorns let out a deafening blare.
"It's going to take a while for its guns to make ready, of course." Varvillon admitted. "But in essence," He sketched a mocking bow, a feat made more difficult by his power armour and the hostage he carried. "We win."
"You're an ugly beast." Barbus observed, tilting his head sidewards. The Iron Skull fixed him with its typical penetrating glare, not replying. Then again, it never did.
Putting their own Legion symbol on the front of the Pony's house was almost comically arrogant, Barbus reflected - but then again, who was he to deny his brothers their little points of pride. Fluttershy had never complained about it in any case, or if she had Lorkhan had never bothered to mention it. It wasn't like the Warsmith ever talked much about what he did with her, but Barbus wasn't one to pry. He would never understand what Lorkhan saw in her, but right now he wasn't here, and there was an unpleasant job to do.
He hadn't wanted to break into a pony's house the last time he'd been coerced into it, either. That one wasn't even a IV Legion-built fortress, and Barbus was surprised as he realised that he couldn't convince himself that this was for a better cause. It wasn't that he had a particular affection for the yellow Xenos, but it was clear she wasn't going to fight back, and praying on the weak for the sake of it had never sat well with Barbus. A familiar face, eternally wrapped in iron, flashed through Barbus' mind. He suppressed it, trying to ignore his own darkening expression.
The most curious thing was that the battle cannon hadn't fired. He'd actually forgotten about it as he'd approached, swearing and cursing as he dived behind a rock in an effort to not get blown apart. Even when no shot was forthcoming, it had taken him a few moments for him to poke his head over the top. The fortress was outfitted with a fearsome array of Legion weaponry. Not one of them stirred.
What's up with you, then? The Marine thought as he stood, arms folded across his chest, staring at the dwelling. The skull sigil still glared back. It took a few moments for the answer to form.
You've turned it off. He found himself grinning, though he didn't feel particularly cheerful. You've actually turned the system off...well, talk about a Red Herring. Still, it paid to make sure. He set off towards the building at a leisurely place, stepping over the various tank traps and trenches they had dug in Fluttershy's grounds. He fumbled with his belt as he drew nearer; before the fighting had started, he'd made sure to stock up on a good supply of Melta Bombs. Leaving his precious Autocannon behind had been a challenge, but ammunition for it was painfully low, and he couldn't bear to see it mistreated. He primed one of the bombs now, hurling it over-arm towards the impressive cannon that sat atop the roof. It detonated with perfect timing, consuming the gun in a fireball and blasting it off its hinges with little effort. He waited for the satisfying crunch of steel hitting the ground before he moved again.
The second bomb had the magnetic clamps enabled, easily latching onto the front of the steel door. Barbus flashed the skull icon a sloppy salute before the thermic charge detonated, blasting a considerable hole in the doors in the small storm of fire. Another Space Marine might have felt some guilt at defiling his Legion's symbol so, but Barbus felt only the briefest pang of remorse. After all these years, it was hard for it to be soiled any more.
The life signs inside became readily apparent. He cycled through all the different views his helmet could provide -thermal, infrared, targeting - before deciding it did not matter. Sliding the rack on his bolter back with grim intent, Barbus ran straight towards the moat surrounding Fluttershy's house.
He was inside less than three seconds later.
"O-okay, I'll try and deal with that...I know it's cold little one, please, I'm trying my best...I-I'm sorry, I'll come and try and help in a second I promise...."
By all rights, Fluttershy should have had a stroke by now. It was hard enough for her being in a social situation with one pony she didn't know too well; a whole host of them, crowding around her in the confined space, was almost too much. She stepped gingerly through the crowds, wings and ears flattened against her body as the Pegasus tried her best to allay the fears of everypony. So far, she hadn't met with much success.
There were about thirty of them, all crushed into the steel confines of her dwelling. It wasn't long after the awful noises had started to ring through the town that they had started to arrive; Fluttershy almost felt a pang of annoyance at how they now expected sanctuary after shunning her for her new home, but it was nowhere near enough to override her protective instincts, and she had let them in without delay. She had been keeping a lookout, but - worryingly - not one of her friends had so far arrived. She chose to believe that they were trying their best to defend the town, or were otherwise safe, but the implications were still frightening to the timid girl.
She didn't know which one Lorkhan had meant when he had told her they were...were...
"Umm...Ms Fluttershy?" A small voice spoke up from her legs, bringing her from her reverie. Silver Spoon looked up, purple eyes trembling. "A...Are we gonna, like...die?" the filly asked with a shaking voice. The words were like a lance to the Pegasus' heart, but she forced herself to bottle it up in front of the child. Instead, Fluttershy wrapped a forehoof around her, pulling Silver Spoon into a light embrace.
"We will be fine." She lied. "The Princess won't let anything bad to happen to us, I promise." Fluttershy attempted a smile, to exude a confidence she didn't feel. It seemed to be only marginally effective, and not for the first time today she wished Rainbow Dash was here, if nothing else, she would have kept their spirits up.
The chatter came to an abrupt halt as the ground shook, as if some primeval god had decided to descend to the mortal plain and join the fray...she just managed to stop herself thinking 'bloodbath'. Fluttershy couldn't stop herself whimpering quietly as a second quake rocked the earth. The effect was widespread, it appeared - even many of the bigger stallions had begun to tremble, whilst the only voice that pierced the silence was the wailing of a tiny infant. It took Fluttershy a moment to realise everypony was staring at her.
"I...I'll go and have a look..." She promised, voice was barely above a whisper, before she turned tail and almost ran up the stairs. Fluttershy was the antithesis of violence, she considered it one of her best qualities, but she couldn't stop herself almost cursing the fact that she'd had to disable her weapon systems. It wasn't like she'd been presented with much of a choice; the guns were indiscriminate, and would have torn the sheltering ponies apart the moment they entered. Tears pricked the corners of her eyes as she realised that Lorkhan might have engineered that intentionally.
It had taken her a while, but she had finally managed to convince Lorkhan only days ago to increase the size of the 'windows' built into her home. The tiny slits were now more practical, though still a shoddy excuse for home comfort. Now, though, she wished they were back the way before - if only to spare herself from the sight before her. Fluttershy's mouth hung open as the canine-headed monstrosity loomed out of the Everfree. Its body was covered in scarred, black metal, but she could not deny that it was very much alive. For a moment, she seemed to catch one of its hungry eyes. The Pegasus retreated, trying her best not to succumb to hyperventilation.
Her breath caught as she heard the first clang, on the roof. The noise of a muffled explosion followed swiftly after. Fluttershy couldn't move, every muscle locked rigidly in place as she stared forwards. Her throat was dry, and it was getting harder and harder to breath. Blackness crept at the edge of her sight, threatening to overcome her.
The second clang hammered into the door.
She couldn't even scream as the detonation rocked the house, already galloping under the cot-bed she had been given and pulling the covers down to conceal herself. Her heart pounded against her ribcage, almost threatening to go into some kind of arrest. She willed it to stop, willed herself to stop shaking. From the vague impressions she could get of the now-dark world around her, the ponies downstairs had no such restraint. They screamed, crying frantically, desperately trying to get out and save themselves. Something else left heavy footfalls as it walked, reverberating through the fortress; they weren't as heavy as the devil-machine outside, but somehow they were far more frightening.
A year ago, Fluttershy's innocence would have been preserved. But now she knew enough to know what gunfire sounded like. She knew the noise of bullets bursting bodies open, of bone shattering, of chainsaws slicing through flesh. The gruesome symphony raged seemingly all around her for ten long, awful seconds. It stopped as quickly as it had come, the last few hungry revs of the chainsaw lingering in the air. There was not a single voice from below, now.
She didn't even have time to consider poking her head out before the steps started again. It was on the stairs. It...it was coming up the stairs. It was coming to find her.
"I know you're here." The deep, gravelly voice said. It sounded almost...bored. "I can see your tiny little heart beating...it's threatening to shut down." It was getting closer now, just outside the room. "You are threatening to throw yourself into cardiac arrest...I've never realised how useful these helmets are, before."
Fluttershy bit her bottom lip hard, actually drawing blood as she tried desperately not to break down and cry. If there was any chance of the beast lying, of it not knowing where she was...
It was in her room. Fluttershy stifled a gasp, unable to stop a few tears leaking out as she squeezed her eyes closed and mouthed a silent prayer. She'd thought that in a situation at this, she'd want to see Angel Bunny or one of her friends, but almost to her shame she found she didn't...right now, Fluttershy would have given anything to see her mum again. The footsteps echoed around her, the small confines of her room making the sound of steel on steel ring in her ears. She heard every minute chatter of her teeth, every sharp breath she inhaled.
It...stopped. A low buzz filled the air, setting the girl's teeth on edge, but the sound of boots methodically pacing the room halted. Fluttershy couldn't even breath as her eyes snapped open. It...had it...had she...
The bedclothes were ripped from over her, Fluttershy's eyes immediately locking with the two burning red orbs of the kneeling Iron Warrior.
"Boo."
She squealed. Forgetting every hurtful playground chant for a moment, the yellow Pegasus flapped her wings harder than she ever had before, hurtling down the stairs in a blur of yellow motion. The dark iron walls of the building around her seemed to close in as she flew, feathered limbs straining to propel her. She only took in the briefest glimpses of the charnel house her home had become, the mangled and indistinguishable bodies lying broken on the floor. The noise of the Space Marine following her down the stairs was only a distant ringing in her ears as she sped, aiming straight for the hole in her door. The sky looked corrupted and bloodshot from what she could see, but it was light and the possibility of freedom, and that was enough.
She was close. So very close, it almost wasn't fair. The wind tickled Fluttershy's face as it happened, almost beckoning her arm. The gauntlet clamping around her leg brought her to such an abrupt stop that it practically pulled it clean out the socket; that was to say nothing of the crushing pressure the hand exerted, breaking the bone within in more than one place. She screamed as the agony shot up her spine and lit up the nerves in her head with pain, hooves trailing limply down to the side of one of the interface's control panels. The Marine exercised only a marginal degree of gentleness as he lifted her, holding the pony at arm's length like some limp marionette dangling from a string. Through the haze of pain clouding her eyes, Fluttershy tried to focus on him. The horns that curved from the side of his helmet gave him the appearance of some cast-iron bull, but what drew her attention the most was the glinting, wickedly serrated knife - that looked more like a sword - he held in his other hand.
"It's a shame, Xenos." He said as he raised the knife to her eye line. "The Warsmith grew fonder of you than any of us should, and he's enough of an emotional cripple as is...but if you don't tell him, then I won't."
All her life, Fluttershy's timid urges had made her lean towards flight. For once, something within her mind seemed to decide on fight. With a cry of effort, she stretched out, using the pain as a catalyst. She almost missed, almost threw away her chance, but with one final push her hoof slammed straight into the control panel.
Authorisation granted.
Fluttershy knew the rumours as well as anypony else; that the Iron Warriors knew no fear. But it seems that they did know surprise. Against all odds the Marine relinquished his grip on her leg, spinning and drawing the Boltgun clamped to his leg. She wasted no time capitalising on the opportunity, forcing her wings to give one last push and jettison her through the broken doors and into the outside.
She did not hear Barbus manage to mutter "Oh, sh-", before the Autocannon shells ripped him apart. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | TPK | She swerved and ducked, forcing her head down as her hooves stretched out in front of her toned body. Rainbow Dash felt tears prick at the corners of her magenta eyes; they weren't tears of sadness, though given her current situation the Pegasus couldn't have been faulted for wanting to break down and sob. Rather, it was her body straining to cope with the g-pressures exerted upon it by the speed and velocity of her flight. The lean, defined muscles of her wings beat furiously as they struggled to keep her propelling forward, and she could almost hear the pound of blood pumping to them roar in her head.
The roar became real. She dived, spreading her wings in an impromptu parachute to slow herself as she rapidly changed direction. The Heldrake didn't have the luxury of such a swift turning circle and kept hurtling forward, more licks of green fire escaping from its jaws. It swooped down as it passed, unleashing another torrent over the shouldering ruins of what she had one called Ponyville. Rainbow bit her bottom lip hard, if only to stop it from trembling in a momentary slip of character. When - if - all this was done she would allow herself the luxury of breaking down, but until that moment there was still work to be done and battles to be fought.
She couldn't see the dragon's twisted twin, but knew it had to be around there somewhere. She almost felt like kicking herself in the gut in frustration. Come on Dash, how can you lose something like that, ya knucklehead? Her question was answered in a matter of moments; the town hall exploded in a shower of loose timber and debris as the second wooden machine burst through it, casting a long shadow over the few Ponies that still remained huddling in the town's wreckage.
Her friends were down there, she realised with a pang of guilt. If she really, really wanted to, she could fly too fast for anything to have a hope of catching her...but none of her friends had that luxury. Not even Fluttershy; that is, if she wasn't...wasn't...
Casting off the grim image, Rainbow once again resumed her flight to evade the Daemon Engine. Not for the first time that day, she muttered a curse on all Iron Warriors, though it came out as little more than a random series of splutters. The seconds-long break hadn't given her much chance to drag air back into her starved lungs, and even with her athletic prowess Rainbow knew she could only keep going for so long. The dragons were seemingly tireless, utterly devoid of the need for rest or pause. Her new pursuer snapped at her blue heels, and it was only a honed sense of fear and self-preservation that allowed Dash to keep those all-important centimetres ahead.
The first Iron Warrior death machine had turned now, the sport to be had on the battlefield below or in Ponyville seeming to lack in comparison. Had Rainbow looked, she would have born witness to a sorry sight. The ranks of Equestria's fighting machines, the Steam Tanks that had underwent so much development and been such a source of pride for the Guard's generals lay shattered and broken, smoke billowing from their cracked engines. Some still blazed from where gun or dragon fire had caught them. All around the mangled craft lay corpses, hideously rent, torn open or near-atomised. By and large, they were nearly exclusively Ponies, many with hideous wounds gouged into them or seemingly having exploded from within. There were, at best, two Space Marines; not enough. Not nearly enough.
Her best chance to eke out vital extra minutes of survival seemed to lie upward, and so Rainbow Dash climbed as she flew, outstretched hooves pointed straight to the red-stained sky. The feel of rain, or what she hoped was rain, pattering off her face and running off her body almost burned, and were it not for the altitude she would have cried out. The only advantage was it blurred some of the girl's vision; she couldn't see the eldritch shapes that twisted and cavorted in the skies. A familiar plume of multi-spectrum light trailed behind the mare as she rose higher and higher. The sight could almost have been considered poetic, had anypony been able to safely observe it - a tiny beacon of light ascending straight and true, surrounded and engulfed by the two monstrous and dark shapes that assailed her.
Even with the whistle of winds in her ears, and the almost sentient roars of frustration from the dragons following her, Rainbow could still hear the thud of each tread taken by the wolf-headed monstrosity that stalked the world below. She hadn't even the slightest idea of where they'd found that thing, or even what it was, but she was intelligent enough to realise the threat it posed. The machine stood a good 14 metres high, even in its hunched form, and considering the size it moved with surprising swiftness; like a wolf let off the leash, running down its prey. In this case, it seemed to be Canterlot, the thing still crashing its way clear of Canterlot in an attempt to make straight for the city. In some ways, that could almost be a good thing; if anyone had the power to take this thing down, it was the Princess. On the other hoof, neither of them had been particularly committal so far.
She arrested her ascent as her vision started to swim. The air was thin up here, even with what she was used to, and Rainbow took the opportunity to cast a glance downwards as her heart beat furiously against her ribs. She's been going faster than she'd thought; the two Heldrakes were left almost in the dust, blazing eyes almost pinpricks against the blacks. As she observed, a thought struck her, gnawing away at her mind like a worm. Perhaps it was only the lack of oxygen that brought a moment of supposed clarity, but all of a sudden, rainbow dash realised what she had to do.
She looked down, unable to prevent herself gulping. Were one of her friends up here, they would almost certainly try to stop her. Pinkie and Fluttershy would cry and plead, Applejack would speak sternly with a hint of affectionate worry, Rarity would no doubt have thrown a dramatic fit, and Twilight...Twilight would have momentarily abandoned logic in favour of rising, desperate panic. It was one of her regrets; that she had always had trouble listening to her friends. As she watched the dragons climb, she found she also thought of Spike. Sadness crept over her; a feeling of shame, like she should have got to know him better. He might already be dead down there...had he died believing she just thought of him as twilight's lackey? The thought affected her more than she liked to admit. Bizarrely, the briefest image of Rorke flashed through Rainbow's head. For once there was no hatred there; only a strange pity at his shakes and madness, and loss of self. With a calmness she'd never before known in her life, Rainbow set her jaw and closed her eyes. No-one would ever have understood why she was so accepting of what was about to happen. But loyalty didn't need to be understood, she'd also found. It just...was.
She dropped.
Her wings were like two overclocking engines, beating furiously as they propelled her downwards in a head-first dive. Wind tore at her short hair, blowing it back and running along the contours of her body as the pace increased. Rainbow kept accelerating more and more, straining wildly against the laws of physics as she pushed herself far beyond mortal limits. The tears came back, but this time they were easy to ignore. If the beasts rising to meet her had any inclination of her plan, they made no effort to stop it, almost entwined around one another in some grotesque dance. Faster and faster she went, the sound barrier wailing and protesting around her. She had gone beyond pain a while back, an almost zen-like state descending upon her mind as the world shot past. In spite of what was rushing towards her, for the first time that day, Rainbow Dash smiled.
Their collision was like an atom bomb going off. Something gave, one final push sending her over the edge. Rainbow's world exploded in a haze of light as the Sonic Rainboom blossomed into existence behind her, illuminating all of Equestria's sky with all its myriad hues for one final moment. At the last moment, the monsters seemed to realise what was happening, feral eyes shrinking in what almost seemed like fear. They tried to disengage, to pull themselves out of her flight path, but it was too late. They smashed together like two angry stars, chaotic hatred given form meeting the spear of blinding light. The force sent a shockwave throughout the land, rustling the few trees that still stood and sending ruins tumbling further into dilapidation. A supernova of rainbow-tinged energy grew in the sky, expanding to consume all as the daemonic forces confined within the wooden bodies of the Heldrakes were unleashed. It persisted for several, beautiful moments, before receding and imploding with a 'pop'.
Blackened timber fell to the ground, like leaves from a tree at the changing of seasons.
It wasn't, Applejack had found, the screaming that was the worst bit. As awful as it sounded, you got used to that after a while. You could forget it, push it to the back of your mind, let it meld with the rest of the music of the Apocalypse that played around her. She didn't like the screaming, but at least you expected it.
No, the worst thing was the silence.
Their guns chattered and growled like angry beasts, whilst the swords revved and whirred as they hacked their way through soft pony hide. And yet, every time she'd seen them since the attack had started, the Iron Warriors had not said a word. She knew they must be speaking, of course; how else could they have co-ordinated this without? Yet whilst they fought and murdered, and the ponies died, the only acknowledgement they got from the aliens was the occasional gruff, baritone chuckle.
It was like they didn't even care. Of course, they probably didn't. From what the farm girl understood, all of this must have come very naturally to them by now. But somehow the almost bored silence they maintained, the cold, clinical professionalism with which they eliminated objectives and targets, contributed to the sinking feeling in her stomach more than anything else.
Well, nearly. There was that one RD knew; the one who screamed all the time. But they seemed to have lost track of him a while ago, which at least in the short-term was nothing but a benefit.
Applejack's attention snapped back to the present as the ground shook again; another step from the titanic monstrosity outside. Granny Smith had nearly had a heart-attack when she'd seen it. In all honesty, so had Applejack, but she'd been trying her best to remain calm and collected throughout the whole thing. Her mind kept straying onto Applebloom; the Crusaders hadn't been seen in weeks by now. She hoped against hope that they were okay and safely out of harm's way, but the Earth Pony found she was forced to expect the worst. It seemed to be the way with Iron Warriors; they wouldn't stop, no matter how low they had to sink. Rarity's murder had proved that...she bit her lip, as she realised she was crying. Her and her fashionista friend had hardly agreed on anything in their life, but she'd have sacrificed herself in a moment to bring the unicorn back now.
Another rumble. The wooden walls of the farmhouse shook, the noise of pans and pictures hung there clanging against the timber. She took a deep breath, dipping down behind the table they'd erected as cover and trying to calm down even a fraction. They'd boarded up the windows and managed to form some form of barricade in front of the doors, but it wouldn't be enough. They all knew that as well, but the shelter still provided a measure of comfort in the face of the oncoming madness. For that, if nothing else, it was worth it.
"Y'alraght, Big Mac?" She asked softly, trying her best to form a reassuring smile. her brother sat with his back to the table, seeming to stare blankly forward into nothingness.
"Eeyup." He replied. Something in his tone made her grimace.
"Yah sure?" There was a pause.
"Ee-nope."
"Hey, now." She said, patting him on the foreleg. It wasn't always easy being the middle sibling, but she tried. "Dont'cha fret now. Everythin's gonna be fahn and dandy, you'll see."
He looked at her for a moment, face clearly doubtful. "Do ya really believe that?" She only held his gaze for a moment before looking down, fighting the urge to bury her own face in her hooves.
"No...shoot, Big Mac, no ah don't."
"It'a alraght, lil sis..." He comforted, edging closer and resting a hoof on her shoulder. She fiddled with the edge of her hat, allowing the stallion to pull her into a hug.
"No." She said, unable to keep the weariness from her voice. It occurred to Applejack just how tired she was; the past few weeks had been especially rough, but ever since the coming of the Iron Warriors she'd been sleeping less. "It ain't." Her knowing, green eyes looked at him. "We ain't getting' outa this, ah don't think...ah just hope the girls are okay." It was a longshot, she knew, but the thought that anything had happened to them was...unbearable. "Ah hate them." She sniffed, unable to keep some child-like petulance from her voice. "All of 'em, every last dog-gone Iron Warrior...it ain't fair. We didn't do anything to them..."
Big Mac had been about to respond when another scream broke the moment they shared. They were all terrible, each one unforgettable, but this one stood out as something especially agonised. In spite of what would have been her better judgement, Applejack took a peek over the barricade and out the window.
Doctor Wellwhinny cried out in pain once again as the flames that now coated him burned with greater intensity. They had tied him to a pole, erecting him in the Apple family yard like some grim parody of a scarecrow. It sickened her, how objectively and almost detachedly she considered it - how all the sights she'd seen had begun to desensitise her to the worst of the Space Marines' atrocities - but the choice of coating him in tar and setting it alight seemed an odd choice to Applejack. Throughout it all, the Iron Warriors had been methodical and pragmatic; merciless certainly, but never given to outright displays of torture. The only possible option she could conceive was that it was meant as a psychological weapon; she could see it, and they knew she could.
Alternatively, maybe the Iron Warrior in question just enjoyed it.
He turned, red eyes like two pinpricks of hate even at the distance they were. Applejack gasped, her own pupils shrinking as she took cover behind the table once again, pulling her hat tightly to her head. The ground rumbled again as the daemon-machine took a step.
He was coming. She knew it even without looking, breath coming short and sharp and shallow. The ironclad monster had bored of its depravity, and now had decided to end the game they were playing. She squeezed her eyes shut, muttering a half-remembered prayer to Celestia under her breath. Big Mac gave a heavy sigh, taking up a rake in his mouth. It wouldn't stop the Chaos Marine, probably not even slow him, but the sight of it did comfort the Earth pony a little.
"Hop to it, young'uns."
She looked up sharply as Granny Smith spoke. The old pony had hobbled into the hallway with surprising quietness, making her way over to sit back in her favourite rocking chair. She sighed, contentedly, as she dropped, snuggling back into the cushion slightly.
"Nuh uh, no way Granny." Applejack said firmly, trying to assert some measure of authority. "What the hay are y'all still doin' here? Ya should be hidin'!"
"Ee-yup." Big Mac attempted to contribute, but it was muffled by the tool in his mouth. Granny's response was to scoff derisively.
"Oh fiddlesticks Applejack, you know mah bum hip. What am ah gonna do, hobble away from them?" She actually chuckled, leaning back on the chair.
"But...Granny." Applejack's voice was pleading now, threatening once again to crack with emotion. "Those varmints don't give a horseapple 'bout how old y'all are...t-they'll kill ya..."
"Well...ah've had a good run, haven't ah?" She asked, actually smiling at her granddaughter. "And besahds, something tells Granny they'll be more than a might eager to get at you yerself, kiddo." She laned forward in the chair as Applejack approached, gently wiping away one of the tears rolling down the orange pony's cheeks. "We're family." She said, softly. "And family sticks together, no matter what." The last of Applejack's walls broke down, and with a sob she leaned forward into another, full-body hug. Granny rubbed her back soothingly, still smiling.
"Besahds." She said cheerily, still comforting Applejack. "Maybe he's reasonable."
The door was smashed in by a ceramite-armoured foot a moment later.
Big Mac leapt forwards, powerful hind legs carrying him forward at an impressive pace. The Iron Warrior swung his chainsword in a whirring arc as the red stallion approached. It passed through heavy, dense layers of muscle and bone like they were nothing. The two bisected halves of Big Mac fell neatly to the floor, blood polling around the intruder's boots. Applejack screamed, momentarily lost to grief and anguish at the sight of her brother's murder. She charged forwards incoherently, uncaring of what happened or whether she even survived the next few moments. The boot crashing into her chest brought her crashing back to sanity; it was a comparatively light blow, hardly any force put behind it, but Applejack still coughed and hacked as she slid backwards across the rough floor and into the table. Something was definitely shattered...a rib...maybe more.
"Now then sonny, we'll have less of that." Granny Smith's voice betrayed the shock and fear in her voice even to Applejack's stunned hearing, but she tried to keep a firm tone nonetheless. "We all see that yer big, there's no need tah be a bully dearie."
He was silent for a moment. Slowly, painfully, Applejack rolled onto her side, looking up at the towering monstrosity. Another painful groan rattled out her injured form. It wasn't just an Iron Warrior; it was an Iron Warrior she knew.
Varvillon's helmet - so smooth, so untainted and undefaced like his brothers' - tilted as he looked at Granny Smith. "Is she with child?" He asked abruptly, motioning to the prone Applejack. In any other situation, she may have blushed.
"None that ah know of." Granny replied. She was quiet for a moment, face growing mournful. "Well, ah suppose a smart boy lahk you knows that'cha just killed mah grandson."
"He stood against us." The Iron Warrior answered, barely missing a beat. To Applejack's surprise, Granny Smith actually chuckled.
"Now then dearie, yah know that's not true." She said, with an almost motherly smile. "Nopony stood against any of yah. The only things that've been doing that are you." She sighed. He didn't reply. "Yah know, ah'm not just some silly old bird." She said suddenly, voice oddly chipper. "Ah asked that nahce Twilight girl, Applejack's friend, about where y'all came from." She looked back up at him, and the expression in her eyes was the one Applejack had never expected to see.
It was pity.
"And ah forgive you." She said, quietly but emphatically. "Shoot, maybe ah'm just getting' sentimental in mah old age, but ah think that...deep down, yah know yah not these big evil villains. Deep down, yah just the same scared, hurt little'uns they took from yah planet and made into monsters...and ah'm sorry for that."
He still didn't speak, regarding the old pony with the same unblinking red eyes they always did. Applejack stared up at him from where she lay on her side; her hat was gone, the bobble in her hair had come loose and let it spread wildly, and it was a fight just to control her breathing.
In one motion Varvillon raised his pistol and fired. This time Applejack didn't scream, though she did make a quiet gasp; fear and shock had rendered him numb. Muzzle of the gun still smoking, Varvillon lowered it, finally looking down at her. She stared back, eyes dead to every emotion except exhausted hatred.
"Go tah hell." Applejack told him, refusing to look away. She'd expected a chuckle from the Space Marine, but he continued to just stare.
"Where do you think we come from?" Varvillon asked, before he slammed a foot down on her skull.
He stayed for a while, looking at the bloody and tattered messes that littered the farmhouse's floor. After a few moments, a boom shook the sky and rocked the building's foundations. He looked up, just noticing a flash of rainbow light spreading across the sky out the window. It meant the Heldrakes were probably destroyed, but by this point, that hardly mattered.
Something caught his eye as he turned to leave. He stopped, running a gore-flecked gauntlet over the protruding leaves of the plant sitting on the hallway table. It was common, but no less impressive for that. He made a mental note to finish his annotated diagram of one later.
"Moving onto next tasking." He spoke into the vox as he left, exchanging pistol and sword for bolter. The slide ratcheting back and his footsteps were the only sounds that filled the now-quiet farmhouse. "Let's see if we can make it two-for-two."
She wasn't a fool. Maybe she seemed that way to some, but she wasn't. Even in her frantic, panicked state, Pinkie knew what the explosion of light burning the sky up meant. She'd seen it two or three times before, by now; each of those had been an experience of joy, a herald of new things to come. Now it seemed more like an ending. The sight of the two wooden beasts shattering apart had brought her a moment of hope, but then reality set in. Even so, she hadn't cried when she saw only wood fall to the ground; her pride was too great. Pride in Rainbow Dash, who right to the end had stayed true to her Element of Harmony.
She was finding it hard to laugh right now.
She ran now, not hopped. She'd ran through the streets of Canterlot, when ponies, changeling and Space Marines had clashed, and she ran again as the world seemed to end around her. It was an indication of how serious things were. A memory floated back to her, one that she'd almost lost. The first adventure she'd gone on with the girls, how they'd nearly let their fears overcome them - she'd laughed them, taught them her Granny Pie's song about laughing to make her fears go away. It seemed foolish, now. She loved her Granny, but she'd never been clear about what Pinkie should do if her fears wouldn't just 'disappear', and were very capable of hurting her.
She ran into the old market place, casting an occasional fearful glance behind her. The sounds of bullets and swords had begun to rescind by now, becoming only fitful and sporadic. What was more prevalent was the crackling of flames; the houses, stores, stalls, everything was cracked and burnt around her, little better than husks. The billowing smoke rising obscured her vision of anything outside the square, though it did help shield the pink pony's eyes from the crimson tide of madness that now substituted for Equestria's sky.
She dived behind the remains of one of the market stalls, cowering for a moment, before galloping behind the stone well. It was wide and deep, and even with some of the stones rendered little more than debris, Pinkie found she could lie prone and hide easily. She tried to calm her breathing, formulating a plan. If she could just make it to the Library-
A noise snapped her attention back. She raised her head, squinting to look round the clearing. It came again, unmistakeable now. It was high pitched and frightened, the noise of a child. Thoughts of self-preservation gone for the moment, Pinkie ran from her shelter, tracking the noise to its source. She found it in a wooden heap that used to be a vegetable stall; the small, blue colt cried out again, trying desperately to move his trapped leg. His eyes went wide as he saw Pinkie approach.
"It's okay!" She called out, already starting to heave the refuse off him with surprising strength. "Don't you worry, little guy. Pinkie's here, I pinkie-promise everything's going to be fine!" She worked quickly, for once entirely focused on what she was doing as she worked to free him. It didn't take long until the little foal's trapped leg was free; he bounded out the wreckage, quickly running to wrap his hooves around Pinkie's neck in a hug. "M-my name's Archer." He stammered, pressing his face into her shoulder. She rubbed his back, and for the first time today, Pinkie Pie smiled for real.
He leaned back, little blue face smiling back, seconds before the bullet took his head off.
She shrieked as his body flopped, spraying blood all over her face and hair. Some splashed into her eye, but Pinkie didn't notice as her shrieks devolved into an almost child-like sob. She cradled it close, pulling it back into her chest and rocking it gently as tears rolled out her closed eyes and down her cheeks. It was a few moments before she relaxed her grip even a little, and she turned to look in the direction from which the bullet had come with furious, glistening blue eyes.
Eight dark shapes slowly and methodically made their way from the enveloping haze. In the gloom and the flickering light source provided by the flames, their silhouettes looked more like horned daemons than ever before. They hefted a wide array of guns and deadly-looking weaponry, from the standard gun most seemed to carry to long-barrelled cannons or sparking claws extending from the knuckles. Behind them, one of their larger kin - the walking weapons - followed. Pinkie's mouth went dry as she saw them, heart freezing. She couldn't fight eight Iron Warriors. She couldn't fight one.
The one at the front, a Space Marine who bore no horns, reached her in short order. The others hung back, pacing almost leisurely through the shattered town square. The big one grunted, lashing out in a backward swipe with his massive fist. The last remaining market stall shattered under the blow. The one that had reached Pinkie turned back to look at it, placing a foot on her tail to stop her escaping.
"Mature." He muttered, a hint of irritation plain in his voice. Pinkie struggled, trying to pull herself free, but every motion felt like she would just end up ripping her tail off. Usually, she could have...she wasn't sure, done whatever it was she did and got out of this situation. This time, however, no amount of Pinkie sense was going to save her. He looked back down at her, eyes impassive.
"This is the second time in fifteen minutes I've been in this situation." He told her, sounding almost bored. She didn't answer, but her blue eyes did flick down to the boot pinning her in place; specifically, the crimson gore that was beginning to dry on it. He pulled the long chainblade from his belt, giving it a few revs. Seemingly satisfied, the Iron Warrior knelt, bringing his helmet only a few centimetres from her face. Pinkie almost gagged as she felt the hot breath emanating from the grille on the front blow into her eyes. "You all have your own special, unique talents...but you die just the same."
"Brother..."
He paused as he brought the blade back, turning his head as another Iron Warrior spoke. Pinkie froze, panting hard as she kept her eyes squeezed shut. The sound of her heart hammering overpowered nearly everything, but she could just about hear...something. It was a motorised noise, like tracks pulling along the ground. Daring to open her eyes, she lifted her heard ever so slightly. The Iron Warrior kept his weight on her, but he and his kin seemed all to be focusing on the thing that rolled into the square.
It was...like them...but not. Smaller, thinner, weedier. The pipes sticking out of it, and the tracks in place of feet, only further confirmed its strangeness. Oddly, Pinkie found she could guess what it was - more than once, she'd heard them in passing refer to 'Servitors', half-mechanical things that helped the Iron Warriors in their tasks. This must be one of them. The Space Marines cast each other wary glances, each of them seemingly as perplexed as the others. The one keeping her in place did not move, but two more advanced slowly towards it, guns held at the ready.
It let them get close, almost within touching distance, before detonating.
The explosives strapped to it were powerful, enough to send the two Space Marine flying from their feet. All of them, even the big one, turned away and raised a hand to protect their face from the blast. Shards of shrapnel rained down from the sky, a few cutting slices from Pinkie's face, but the pain was hard to feel - she was almost detached to it by now. Marshalling her courage, and blinking rapidly to try and restore her vision, she looked back around as her enemies did with wide eyes.
The steps rang through the square easily, each one drawn out and ominous. A new silhouette took form at the edge of the flames, but Pinkie couldn't tell what it was. At a glance, she could see the two black pinions rising from its back - like some angelic wings ready to take flight. As it approached, she realised they were far from it, but no less welcome. Spikes and blades sprouted from the creature, slung and sheathed across it like it was some great porcupine. A chain rattled at its side, two horns seeming to sprout there in the gloom. She could see little more - a different kind of smoke enveloped it, this one heady and strong even at a glance. The only reference was a single prick of light, burning like a watchful eye. They stared as it entered the square, for once possessing no snide comeback. Pinkie stared to.
Around the creature's chest, almost like a bandage, was tied a red sash.
"Morning." Said Zuko, Aspiring Champion of the Iron Warriors. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Iron on Iron | They were fast. He was faster.
Letting the cigar drop from between his clenched teeth, Zuko reached into the bandoliers criss-crossing his chest as the two Iron Warriors blown aside by the booby-trapped Servitors rose back to their feet. His hands clenched round the first weapons he found- a pair of plasma pistols. Pointing his arms out either side, he fired, letting the recoil shake his wrists. The two green bolts of plasma whistled through the air as they sped from the weapons, striking his two standing brothers in the face. They dropped, ceramite helmets and their skulls within burned straight through by the caged fury of the stars.
By the time their bodies had slammed into the ground, Zuko was already running, dropping the pistols behind him. A veritable storm of bolter fire rushed towards him, threatening to stagger the vengeful Space Marine. It was a precarious position to be in; his armour was proof against most of the firepower, but the areas compromised by Rorke's traitorous blow formed an exploitable point of weakness. Of greater concern was the fact that, for the first time in years, Zuko chose to keep his helmet locked firmly onto his belt. The sensation of the wind on his face, his short beard bristling on his chin, of squinting to protect his storm-grey eyes from the dirt kicked up by his brother's bullets were unusual and almost unwelcome to him. The extra vulnerability engendered by an exposed head only served to further convince him that it had been a terrible idea, and the Iron Warrior counted himself lucky that he had no long mane of hair to blow behind him. Nonetheless, his charge was stooped over and with an arm attempting to shield his face, like some silver bull charging his aggressor's lines.
He reached the first one quickly, the other Space Marine unable to manoeuvre out of his path before Zuko was upon him. The Aspiring Champion's movement was smooth, reaching down to his side and drawing a serrated combat knife from the array he had strapped across his body. Flicking it round in his hand, he stood from his crouch, using the momentum to drive the blade into his brother's throat. The Marine dropped the gun, pawing weakly at his punctured windpipe as rich, red blood began to flow from the wound down the front of his armour. Releasing his own grip on the knife, a kick to the midsection was enough to put the stabbed Marine on his back and take him out of the fight. Zuko staggered slightly as a bullet ricocheted from his pauldron; he turned, bracing himself against the rapid fire. More shots slammed into the proffered shoulder, each bullet scarring and denting the Iron Skull symbol further.
He couldn't hide a nervous grimace as he danced onto one foot, narrowly avoiding a spiralling krak missile that shot past him. It sailed away, detonating in the remains of a townhouse and driving it further into rubble. Zuko barely had time to recover before a Lascannon blast from the Obliterator forced him back on the defensive. He pushed off with his right foot, almost sailing into a sidewards roll through the air. He didn't waste his time off the ground, producing another pair of pistols - bolt, this time - that he had managed to loot from the armoury. He fired as he fell, one after the other.
The missile-launcher totting Iron Warrior staggered as the first bullet struck him, then the second. It was the third getting a lucky hit through an eye socket and blowing out his brains that finally caused him to drop, heavy weapon falling to the ground beside him. Zuko rolled awkwardly as he himself landed, the manoeuvre made difficult by the power pack and guns strapped to his back. He collapsed almost in a heap, staring up at the sky with a dazed expression. It meant he didn't have time to rise before Varvillon reached him.
The chainsword fell, revving edge aimed straight from the sergeant's exposed face. Teeth gritted, Zuko was forced to raise his silver gauntlet to block the blow, the whirring sword carving a great gouge from the ceramite. It fell once, then twice, then three times; each one only just blocked by the downed Space Marine. After the third blow, Varvillon's balance over-shifted slightly. Zuko capitalised, kicking out with his strong, bionic legs and striking his brother in the gut. Varvillon's stumble backwards gave him time to get back on his feet. He reached over his back, grasping one of the Astartes shotguns that were slung there like some great wings. As Varvillon renewed his assault, Zuko changed tactics; he used his weapon not as a gun, but a club, bringing it round in a wide arcing sweep. It crashed into the side of Varvillon's mk7 helmet with astounding force, almost knocking his brother to the ground with the strength of the impact. Sparks flew from the side of the damaged armour, one of the red eyes dimmed and without its glow. For all his eloquence, his intelligence, Varvillon made an elementary error; snarling as he sought to restore his vision, he turned away for the briefest moment and ripped off the damaged helmet. It was enough time for Zuko to flip the shotgun round, barrel aimed squarely at Varvillon's face. His brother's jaw may have been bionic, but the top of his head was still organic. The bone and brain simply dissolved as Zuko fired at point-blank range, Varvillon's corpse slumping down at his feet with what was left of the brain pan tumbling out.
He was saved by luck. Zuko took a wheezing cough, the punctured section of his chest threatening to tear open and bleed. It was the slight stumble that saved him, his brother's chainsword sliding down his pauldron rather than splitting his bare head clean in two. Grunting at the sudden shock, the Sergeant pivoted, discharging his shotgun into his brother's chest plate with a cry. It had scant effect, doing little more than buying Zuko a moment of time as the struck Marine was pushed back. Any further plan was swiftly disrupted by the whine that filled the air - the noise of the Obliterator's assault cannon cycling round and ready for fire. Thinking quickly, Zuko once again went on the attack, stowing the shotgun and grasping his brother's forearms with a heave. The grapple was intense, both parties evenly matched in terms of strength - neither willing to shift. Finally something gave; with a herculean effort, Zuko lifted, pulling the other Astartes off the ground slightly and turning. The other Marine struggled, red eyes burning with a mixture of hatred and confusion as Zuko carried him. The expression soon stuck as the Obliterator opened fire, unable to control himself. The high-velocity shells slammed into his back - Zuko's makeshift human shield had done its work, even the ceramite of the other Iron Warrior no match for the rending power. His own face cut and scratched by the shrapnel, Zuko slowly edged his way over to the left, carrying his bleeding-out brother as he went. The Obliterator kept up his fire, screaming and howling in psychotic rage as it tried to murder the Champion. Finally discarding the corpse, Zuko spun as he crouched, the shells just whistling overhead. For all its Daemonic-given strength, as he rose to one knee and aimed the reclaimed Missile Launcher square at it, the Obliterator seemed to experience a flicker of fear. It tried to waddle away, ammunition spent for the moment, but the ponderous frame rewarded to it by its Gods had disadvantages. It didn't even have time to howl as the krak missile struck it, exploding into a rain of torn armour and mutated flesh.
Zuko stood to admire his handiwork momentarily, missile launcher held at ease, gargoyle-mouthed barrel still smoking. It took a moment for him to run the numbers. Casting a look to the right, the Space Marine fell utterly still as the last remaining Iron Warrior aimed his Boltgun. A small stretch of land separated them, but even so the chance of his missing was slim.
Click
Zuko couldn't stop himself raising an eyebrow at the cliche as the ammunition feed on his brother's Boltgun clicked empty. The Iron Warrior looked down at the empty gun, frantically searching in his belt for another clip. For the first time in a long time, a genuine smile - a small, repressed smirk of a thing - crossed Zuko's face. He ambled forward almost leisurely, discarding the heavy weapon and drawing another plasma pistol from his belt, before firing. The shot struck his brother in the hand, gun flying away from the ruined limb. Fighting through the pain with a growl, the Iron Warrior sought for another weapon. Zuko was on him before he could produce one, hand wrapped around his throat and lifted him from the ground. The other Iron Warrior's legs kicked at the empty air beneath; the dark expanse of the well's pit falling below him.
"You're...dead..." The trapped Marine grunted, struggling at his bonds. Zuko shrugged, keeping his grip intact.
"I got better." He remarked, sarcasm evident. "Rorke never would have made Apothecary; we have two hearts, remember? A couple of hours nap in the Sus-As membrane coma was enough to get me back on my feet." He stepped closer, bringing his face almost to his brother's. "That...and I'm really pissed off."
He let go. The Iron Warrior clawed at the lip of the well with his remaining hand, but a stamp from Zuko prized him free. With a great clatter, he fell down into the dark.
He watched his brother fall, and from where she lay - too paralysed with fear to move - Pinkie watched him. After a moment, Zuko grunted, stumbling forward and steadying himself on the well. He coughed, placing a hand on the sash round his chest. She couldn't see very well, but when he removed it, Pinkie could have sworn she spotted blood staining his gauntlet. He straightened with another mumble, before turning back to look at the scene of devastation behind him. Leaning his head down, Zuko began to speak into the collar of his armour.
"Attention, all members of the Fourth Legiones Astartes, Iron Warriors. On my authority as Breacher Sergeant of the Thirteenth Grand Battalion, you are hereby under arrest on multiple counts of genocide, daemon trafficking...and attempted murder." His eyes narrowed. "Not cool, brothers."
Ever since Lorkhan had nearly taken her life, Pinkie hadn't spoken a single word to any of the Iron Warriors. Even moments ago, as Varvillon bore down on her, she had kept her silence. Perhaps it was to prove a point, or perhaps it was just to make her feel better, but whatever the case she had broken her promise to try and be friendly to all living things and treated them with nothing but cool, mute civility - a decision that almost seemed precognisant, given the situation around her. Shock and confusion, however, were powerful enough motivators it seemed to get her to break her vow of silence.
"Did...did you just place every Iron Warrior in Equestria under arrest?" She asked, in an unusually quiet and scared voice. Zuko looked at her, as if only just realising she was present. For a moment she thought he intended to finish her off, but eventually he merely shook his head.
"No." He said. "I just placed ever Iron Warrior in the universe under arrest." He coughed again, before setting off at a slow pace. He paused by every corpse he had made, scrounging whatever ammunition he could. After recovering any weapons he could easily carry, he stayed with them a moment longer, resting a hand on their helmets where he could, or their chests where he could not. As Pinkie slowly got back to her hooves, it looked almost...tender.
"Urm...t-thank you for saving me...I-I guess..." His head turned to glare at her, and Pinkie paused - her breath catching with a squeaky gasp.
"I didn't save you." He clarified. "That wasn't the objective. Your survival, however temporary, is just a bonus, and aren't you lucky." He stood, reaching into a pouch by his side and popping another cigar into his mouth. The lighter he had to use wasn't quite marine-sized, but he'd become practiced at its operation.
"Then...then why?" She asked, bemused. "Why kill your friends like that? Is...did you mean it when you said they tried to kill you?"
"I did." He nodded. "Though 'tried' might be an understatement." Pinkie's brow furrowed, unsure as to his meaning. She followed his eyes up, into the chaotic and swirling shapes of the red sky above them. Its meaning was lost to her. "But also because...damn it, I was right." He sighed. "I never wanted this. This shouldn't have had to happen, none of this. But look at us." He made a sweeping gesture to the ruination around them. "This is what my Legion is reduced to? Targeting those who don't have even a chance to fight back? Fighting stupid, worthless wars for no other reason than we can? No. I can't - I won't - let that be what becomes of the Iron Warriors. Not whilst there is breath in my body."
She trotted back slightly, quailing a little under this newfound intensity. "So...w-what are you gonna do?" He didn't reply immediately, face grim and stony. It was the first time she'd ever seen his face, Pinkie realised.
"I will cleanse this Company of its sins, expel the rot that festers in our ranks." His words were quiet, but filled with determination. "I will get off this planet. I will go to Medrengard, call the lords of iron to account, bind them to me either with allegiance or death." He nodded. "I will go back to fighting this war, the real war. I will take my men and my brothers back out into the stars and remind the enemy why we are feared. I will strike at targets, not because they are easy or vulnerable, but because they will help us to win - because they will hurt the Imperium. Because they will help us to kill the False Emperor. I will take this Legion from what it is, what it has become, and rebuild it as what it should be."
"But first," he added, eyes narrowing. "I will find Rorke. And then, I will murder him."
The earnesty of the words sent an involuntary shiver through Pinkie. She trotted from one hoof to the other nervously, and again the normally unstoppable party pony found herself at a loss for words. Zuko's expression darkened as a noise filled the air; the sound of scraping on stone. Pinkie heard it too, ears pricking up and eyes widening. The helmet-less Space Marine turned from his acquiring of weapons, walking towards the well and peering down into it. Body acting of its own accord, she followed, big blue eyes casting a fearful glance over the lip.
The two red pinpricks stared back up at her, rooting the pony to the spot and catching her breath in her throat. Slowly, the Iron Warrior climbed his way up the tight confine - even in his bulky armour, he was able to use his feet and elbows as an effective levering system. She trembled as she watched him approach. Zuko just stared.
"My my." He said at last, sounding almost impressed. "You can say what you like about us, but we're stubborn old bastards." She was so focused on the approaching threat that Pinkie didn't even hear him pull the strange metal object from his bandolier and drop it into her hooves.
"Hold this." He said, exhaustion plain in both his tone and grey eyes. She complied without thinking, before confusion hit her. Any attempt by Pinkie to ask what he was doing was forestalled as Zuko brought a hand to her tail and pulled up, pitching Element of Laughter over and down into the depths of the well.
By the time the melta-bomb exploded, the plume of thermic fire erupting like a volcano from the well shaft consuming both pony and Chaos Space Marine, Zuko was already walking away.
"What the bloody hell is he on about?"
Mordecai took his time in answering, replaying the words over and over again. Zuko's voice crackling across the general vox had been a most unwelcome surprise, and one that had almost - almost - threatened to unman the Sorcerer for a moment. To his credit, he had managed to maintain his composure, though that was as much to do with his helmet-obscured face and Lorkhan's distracted state than anything else.
After the initial shock, the major emotion was disappointment. It appeared that if one wanted something doing right, one couldn't trust an...an oaf such as Rorke. It was unfortunate, but then again, that appeared to be the theme for this entire jamboree.
"Did he just...did he just arrest us?" Lorkhan asked, incredulously. "As in, legitimately attempt to bring the crushing weight of the Law down on us?" Lorkhan's head tilted. "I don't even think he's allowed to do that."
"Perhaps...such an occurrence is not entirely unexpected, my lord." Mordecai eventually decided on, as ever plumping for the diplomatic option. "Our brother has been at this game a rather long time, and if you'll recall, he seems to have suffered the most physical maladies during our stay here in regards to his arms and legs." He elected to leave out the most deliberating wound he was supposed to suffer. "Mayhap it is all...catching up with him, so to speak."
The Growler hit another bump, engines snarling angrily as it bounced back down. The earth-shattering tread of Lupus Nox seemed to echo all around them; they followed in the Warhound's wake, keeping a cautious distance back from its taloned feet. The possessed behemoth had made its way to Canterlot in relatively short time, the Warsmith and Mordecai never far behind. For a moment, the warlock thought that he may have gotten away with his lie. The hope was quashed as Lorkhan shook his head.
"No," he said, thoughtfully. "Zuko might be a pain at times, but he isn't stupid. He's the only one here that hates all this as much as I am. A couple of injuries wouldn't set him off, not -" He paused, even the Mechatendrils freezing. Mordecai rolled his eyes within the confines of his armour, suppressing a sigh as the Warsmith turned to look at him. The glare was almost predatory.
"What...did...you...do?" he hissed. The implicit threat was enough to give even the Psyker pause, Mordecai backing off in his seat slightly as Lorkhan leaned in.
"Now now, my lord." He chided, doing his best to remain composed. "Let us not be hasty. It would be incorrect to assign blame based on such circumstantial evidence-"
"I wasn't born yesterday, you mutant freak." Was Lorkhan's growled response. Slowly, one of the tendrils attached to his armour reached up, snaking its way round Mordecai's neck. It would have been a simple task to send it back, a mere flex of psychic muscle - yet he knew he was already on a precarious standing. Slowly, the mechandrite began to constrict. "I swear to your bastarding Gods, Mordecai -" He was cut off as the Rhino's vox crackled to life.
"So sorry to interrupt this lover's tiff," Their driver said, his voice flat. "But I believe our bestial companion is about to speak." His words were punctuated by a new sensation - silence. The ominous, ever present rumble of the Titan's steps had stopped.
They were not far from Canterlot now. The great white city hung from the mountainside above them, the slowly-descending tiers culminating in a huge gate that stood across from the Titan. Battlements, some old, some more hastily-erected, ringed the walls, whilst the only way across a deep chasm to the gate was a marble bridge. A familiar sight encased the pristine city - a shimmering ball of purple light, the energy shield so far maintaining its form with little effort.
The Titan was still. Lorkhan and Mordecai were still too, locked in the midst of their disagreement s they both stared out the viewing screen within their transport. With painstaking slowness, the canine head of the Lupus Nox slowly ground its way upwards, gears whining as it stared at the shield. The noise was joined by a second clanking moments later - the sound of the colossal Plasma Blastgun being brought level with the target. At such a range, and with such a sizable target, missing was never a possibility. Even within the confines of their vehicle, both Sorcerer and Warsmith could feel the second skin of their armour prickle as the weapon began to charge. It had taken a while for the daemon to come to full wakefulness, but now blue coils of white-hot energy thrummed and crackled down the length of the gun. Dispassionately, Mordecai realised he was holding his breath.
It fired once. Just once.
The shield...disappeared. It did not shatter, nothing so crude; it merely ceased to be. A second sun was born for a moment above the capital of Equestria as the plasma burned through the magical protection like it simply did not exist. The noise of the discharge shook the world, almost as much as the triumphant braying and blaring of the Titan's warhorn moments later. Even with the shield taking the full force of the hit, the city was not spared. Flaming contrails of plasma fell like tiny stars from the sky, smashing through the roofs of houses and setting the streets ablaze. Smoke could be seen rising, soon joined by licks of flame climbing for the heavens. It did not take long for the screaming to start. Many of the elegant, high towers simply collapsed, stones blown apart by the sheer force of the blast that had hit it. It was the imperious castle, lauding over all, that took the worst however. Even from a distance it was clear many of the windows had been smashed to tiny shards of glass, or simply burned to sand, whilst the roof was nearly torn off. More flames raged, orange tips peeking out into the already burning sky.
Miraculously, either through magic or simple quirk of fate, the gate more-or-less held. Turning back from where he had shielded his eyes, and fighting through his wonder at the Warhound's unleashed wrath, Mordecai clicked his tongue thoughtfully. He had no doubt that there was elements of sorcerous protection applied to the gates, and trying to open them with his telekinetic powers would most likely leave him drained for the final confrontation with the Princesses; it was not a scenario he favoured. Trying to get both the Titan and Rhino through at the same time again seemed like a recipe for disaster, and if they waited much longer the shock and awe of their attack would lose its clout. To his credit, however, it seemed the Warsmith had already planned for that.
"This isn't over." He promised, voice low and dangerous as he grudgingly released Mordecai. "Now help me with these." He moved to the back of the tank, starting to haul the explosives he had packed earlier to the front. Mordecai complied, though the strategy at play was still lost on him. The driver knew his orders well enough. Gunning the engines, the Growler's tracks tore at the ground for a moment before the tank shot back to life with a throaty rumble.
Hurtling towards Canterlot, Lorkhan and Mordecai went to meet their destiny.
He found his brother much as he had expected to; in a state of filth. The red-timber schoolhouse that had sat at the outskirts of Ponyville was already smouldering by the time Zuko arrived, bullet holes punched clean through the wooden walls. The ground outside was little better, a veritable carpet of pony bodies and the remains of their primitive tanks. Zuko felt his frown deepen at the sight of it, but he fought through the revulsion welling in his gut, stopping around twenty metres from the crouching form of his brother. Rorke's back was to him, the other Champion hunched over as if in some form of vile prayer.
"I knew we were scum, brother." Zuko began, voice clear and calm as he called out. Even so, he found his hand straying to one of the many pistols holstered at his side. Rorke's bare, shaven head rose a fraction, though he didn't turn. "But eating the dead?" Zuko's nose wrinkled. "That's just charming, even for you."
Finally, Rorke did turn in a slow, convulsing motion, though he didn't stand. Zuko's statement was true enough; streams of blood, mixed with the occasional chunk of raw meat torn from the carcasses, dribbled down his chin. The blood covered his whole armoured, hiding the silver colour of his ceramite under a dribbling curtain of crimson; in truth, he looked more like a World Eater than an Iron Warrior. Small, dark eyes watched Zuko. Perhaps it was just the feral hunch, but Rorke gave off the image more of a rabid predator than a warrior of the Adeptus Astartes.
There was silence for a while, as the pair stared emotionlessly at one another. When Rorke broke it, his voice was growling and scratchy, broken up by his heavy panting.
"You're...de-"
"I've already made that joke." Zuko butt in, raising a placating hand. For a moment, his eyes flicked down to the body Rorke had been feasting upon. He could not see the face, and doubted there would have been much of it left intact anyway, but the colouring gave it away even if the three smiling flowers on the flank had not. He grimaced again, shaking his head slightly as he looked back to his brother. "Seriously...this? This is what the Fourth legion does now?" Rorke didn't respond, continuing to watch warily. Zuko took his own time before speaking, trying to claw for any appropriate words. "You do realise I have to kill you now, right?" Rorke twitched slightly, limbs tensing as he licked blood-flecked teeth. Zuko placed his left leg forward, hand tightening around the grip of a bolt pistol. "After all this time...all these years of needling each other, of mutual loathing..." He sounded more regretful than anything else. "And...I don't know what to say to you, brother." He was still for a moment. Slowly, in a move that seemed to surprise even him, Zuko extended his left hand towards Rorke. "You won't listen, because you're a violent, insane bastard who doesn't respect me or anything this Legion stands for...but you are my brother." His head tilted slightly. "Please...Castlemayn..." Rorke flinched at the use of his first, barely spoken name, but gave no more reaction than that. "Come back from the edge."
For the briefest moment, a flicker of sanity seemed to light in Rorke's eyes, and Zuko dared to hope that he'd gotten through. Then the red mist seemed to descend again, and he knew his brother was lost forever.
Rorke howled as he charged, bounding forwards towards Zuko like a slavering beast. Zuko acted quickly, shifting his stance and drawing his bolt pistol. This time, the weapon he produced in that swift motion was shot towards an Iron Warrior, the bullet streaming through the air towards Rorke's bare head. Time seemed to slow, focusing around that single point - the ripple in the air as the munition passed.
It missed. For all Zuko's accuracy, Rorke's momentum was astounding. The angle was misjudged, the bolt merely pinging off the manic Space Marine's armour. It wasn't enough to stop his charge, or even throw him off balance, as he leapt forward with arms outstretched. They tightened round Zuko's as the pair went down hard, rolling around in the dirt like a pair of squabbling infants. Zuko grunted and gagged as the armoured, blood-soaked fingers pushed into his windpipe, vision swimming before him. Rorke's eyes were pits, the depths of madness boiling there having completely smothered any lasting trace of the man the Aspiring Champion had once been.
Eventually, just as he was about to black out completely, Zuko's struggling bore fruit. Their weight shifted slightly, and the endangered Iron Warrior managed to bunch his knees to his chest. With a cry he kicked out, using the bionic strength in his legs to provide power his mortal frame could not. It was an effort, but Rorke was dislodged. The other Astartes rolled back as he fell, landing in a bestial crouch.
Somehow - even he wasn't sure - Zuko had managed to retrieve the power sword from Rorke's side as he was beaten back. The maniac hadn't even thought to use it. There was barely time to turn it on before Rorke hurled himself forth once more, screaming obscene war cries to his God. He still managed to duck the first blow, moving like lightning as he tried to rip at any part of Zuko's armour that offered purchase. Zuko swung the blade in wide, sweeping arcs, but he had never been the swordsman - a downward, diagonal strike gave Rorke the chance to reach up and grab his brother by the wrists. They tussled again, Rorke's greater strength matched by Zuko's control. Their eyes met, tunnel vision almost overtaking Zuko as they stared at one another. His own face was set and determined, all thoughts of fraternal camaraderie expunged as he struggled for control of the weapon. Rorke's features were twisted and convulsing in agony, his own body shaking more violently than ever before, though it did not affect his hold on the grapple. Blood fell from more than just his forehead now; it poured down from the nose, the ears, the corners of his mouth, even some from the eyes.
Eventually, co-ordination struck a blow to blind fury. Shifting his footing at the last moment Zuko feinted, before delivering a downward strike with the IV's trademark methodical precision. Rorke roared as his left forearm dropped to the ground, but the wound did not seem to slow the battering assault on Zuko even for a moment. Blood poured from the stump as well now, ichor dripping from him like a waterfall. A right hook smashed into Zuko's face, knocking one or two teeth loose. He just about managed to duck beneath the follow-up blow, slashing the tip of the blade across his brother's sternum. Another gouge opened up on Rorke's armour. The drop in his guard was momentary, but all Zuko needed. He brought the blade round in another downward chop, energised edge slamming into the other Iron Warrior's shoulder.
Rorke's assault finally halted. The other Marine's face froze, a look of dumb incomprehension passing over it. Depthless anger still blazed in his eyes, but it seems that Rorke's injuries finally caught up to him as he sank down to one knee. It had been no more than half a day since they were last in this situation - though circumstances there had been very different. Zuko took a slow, shuddering breath, almost stumbling as his one functioning heart tried desperately to keep up with his physiology. The Iron Warrior gave an uncharacteristic wince, bending over slightly as he clutched at the cape bandaging his chest. He took the hand away, looking down at it - he didn't know whether the gore on it belonged to him, or one of his brothers. The array of weapons still strapped to him made moving difficult to an extent, but not enough to stop him now. He straightened, casting a pitying look at Rorke as he brought the crackling blade to his brother's neck. The downed Iron Warrior just panted like a dog, fury spent for a temporary moment.
"It...I..." Zuko was at a loss for words. Even despite the fratricide he had already committed, the new mission he had decided upon, this...execution made him feel sick to his good. It was sentiment unworthy of an Iron Warrior, perhaps, but what was one more transgression? Steeling himself, he drew the blade back, angling it for the decapitating strike. Rorke just continued to glare venomously at him.
The bolt of energy to his back was enough to knock Zuko from his feet, the sergeant sprawling and rolling in the dirt. He got some distance before finally stopping, reduced to lying flat on his front with a mouthful of dirt. Slowly and painfully picking himself up, Zuko growled wordlessly, shaking the last wisps of smoke and flame from off his armour as he looked towards the source of the shot.
She levitated a few inches above the ground, the leaves and grass below buffeted by ethereal wind. Twilight's eyes were blank pits of white light, the glow almost seeming to spill out of her as the blood had from Rorke. The glow suffused her horn, as well as the crackling bolts of lightning that seemed to dance across her purple fur. It didn't seem to bother her, though the fact that she levitated bipedally as opposed to all fours would have set alarm bells ringing in Zuko's head anyway. In one hoof, held diagonally, was a long, green staff. It had plainly been carved from something else, the end closest to the ground worked into the shape of a fish-like eye. Internally, the Marine groaned; anyone who had a passing knowledge of the forces of Chaos would recognise that eye. His expression grew almost sympathetic; from the little association he'd had with her, it was clear that Twilight would do anything to protect her friends. It seemed she didn't realise just what a catastrophically bad idea that was.
From the corner of his eye, movement. Rorke's convulsion began again, seemingly confined to his upper body for now. The bleeding from his arm should have stopped by now, yet it kept coming. Zuko reckoned there was probably more at work than simple injury. The blood-drenched Space Marine stood on trembling legs, furious eyes locked on Twilight. She didn't focus on either of them, seemingly locked in a state of pure, logical calm. Zuko scrambled to his own feet as quickly as he could, drawing a knife from his belt.
The sword lay on the ground between the two brothers. Zuko must have dropped it as he landed. They both looked down at it, then up to one another. The hate...the hate remained, the burning and shared dislike that had spurred them on for ten thousand years. But despite Zuko's newfound resolve, and Rorke's mindless anger, there was something else there. It was painfully close to closure. Zuko nodded shallowly. Rorke just snarled.
Zuko turned as the injured Marine leapt for the sword. Another blast of purple energy snapped at his heels, burning away at the ground, but despite the hammering in his chest he managed to outpace it. Almost distantly, he heard Rorke's scream from behind as he charged into the fight. There was no point continuing their fight now; they had both battered one another into submission, their cold enmity given space to vent. Besides, Rorke had been nothing but a butcher for a long time now. Zuko didn't want the strongman. He wanted the criminally polite ringmaster.
He skidded to a halt as the ground rumbled again. Even from this distance his ears still rang slightly from the last time the Nox had fired, and from the way the towering construct took another step towards Canterlot, it seemed to be gearing up for another shot. As he watched, inspiration hit the Iron Warrior. Something dangerously close to a smile crossed Zuko's face as he leant forward, forcing his abused body into another run.
He knew exactly how he was going to get that Ringmaster, too. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Iron Within, Iron Without | "History prefers legends to men. It prefers nobility to brutality, soaring speeches to quiet deeds. History remembers the battle, but forgets the blood. Whatever history remembers of me, if it remembers anything at all, it shall only remember a fraction of the truth."
-Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter
"Move it you bastard!"
Lorkhan's barked command was all it took for the Growler's driver to gun the acceleration and go for it. It pulled away with surprising haste, darting round the legs of the Nox with considerable agility and making straight for the bridge into the now-vulnerable city. For Mordecai at least, his ears still rang with the aftermath of the Plasma Blaster's discharge, but the Sorcerer was accustomed enough to the rumble of artillery fire by now to shrug it off, though he still grabbed the inner wall of the tank to steady himself as it burst into angry life. Lorkhan's Mechatendrils provided a similar function, latching onto the walls like the legs of a grossly oversized spider as he stared intently at the view screen from behind his helm.
It felt impolite to point it out, but the Psyker couldn't help but notice that the frontal gates were still largely intact. No magical firepower rained down from the walls onto them, a testament to the havoc wrought by the Titan's shot, but the fact remained that at the rate they were going, the Iron Warriors were on course to smash head-on into the gates. The tendrils of the warp slowly and perversely wrapped themselves around this world, not to mention worming their way into the depths of Mordecai's brain, but even with this redux of power he wasn't sure he would have possessed the capability to psychically wrench the doors open before they were smashed into an ignoble wreckage.
It was when a sudden swerve caused him to drop his tea-set, the ancient enamel-white crockery shattering into a million pieces, that Mordecai found he could hold his tongue no longer. "Far be it from me to question what I am certain is a roguishly brilliant stratagem, my lord." He said, having to shout to be heard over the rumble of the Rhino's engines. "But I fail to see the tactical expediency of squandering our lives in a head on collision." Lorkhan did not answer, seemingly still lost in his own private thoughts. Mordecai tutted to himself, reiterating his concern whilst casting a wary glance back to the stash of high explosives sequestered in the rear of the Rhino. If they went off whilst the Astartes remained within the vehicle, then all this planning and preparation would have amounted only to the most frightful waste.
Again, the Warsmith didn't answer. In most circumstances, as his loyal and dutiful sorcerer, Mordecai was a bastion of patience and willingness to compromise, but given the impending calamity about to befall them - not to mention how tightly his nerves had already been wound over the last few hours - it seemed that even that patience was about to reach its limits.
"We are going to die, Lorkhan!" He snapped, the usual air of courtesy in his tone finally cracking for a moment. It was enough to attract the attention of the Warsmith, the half-skull faced helmet swinging round to face his brother. Mordecai looked dangerously close to losing his temper for a moment, before returning to his usual small, amicable smile. "I just thought it would be prudent to mention."
Lorkhan was quiet for a moment before emitting a sound halfway between a sigh and a growl, the Warsmith's own frustrations evident. Nevertheless, he finally consented to detaching slightly from the wall, explaining the plan to Mordecai in a quiet tone. The Psyker kept dutifully quiet throughout, doing his best to give the idea presented to him its fair due. When Lorkhan was done, he leaned back, with a general body language that said 'I don't give a Nurgling's arse about what you think'. Nevertheless, it was his duty to advise.
"That is...not the strategy I would have advocated, my lord."
Sure enough; "I don't care. Get it done." With that the Warsmith turned away again, leaning up to force open the large top hatch of the Rhino. Wind rushed in and past them as they sped forwards, the cool breeze nipping at Mordecai's face. He sighed, casting a look back to the explosives. Lorkhan was already pulling himself onto the roof of the moving tank, ceramite boots mag-locked to its hull. Mordecai took a moment to reaffix his helmet before kneeling down and priming the detonator on the weapons. Standing, he took one last glance around the cramped interior, resting a gauntlet almost tenderly on the wall.
"It's been an honour, old girl." He whispered sincerely, patting the structure before joining the Warsmith on the roof. The gate was getting closer and closer now, time rapidly ticking out.
"You're ready?" Lorkhan asked in a grunt. Mordecai nodded, for once not speaking as he concentrated. Lorkhan moved away, slamming a foot onto the roof above the driver's compartment.
"Up you get." He growled through the local vox. There was a general noise of movement as the driver unbuckled himself from the Rhino's seat, clambering up to join the two other Iron Warriors.
"Getting me out was an inefficient use of time." He informed the Warsmith in a flat, gravelly voice as he slid back the rack on his Boltgun.
"Iron Within, Iron Without." Was Lorkhan's reply, voice dripping with sarcasm. He didn't waste any more time, looking back to Mordecai with a nod. The tank was moving of its own accord now, but Mordecai still only had a few moments to marshal his power before the explosives stocked inside finally blew.
They could have waited for the Titan to recharge and fire again, but that would have lost them the element of...whatever it was they were going for here. They couldn't go through the gate. But there was another way. Mordecai's telekinetic force crackled to life just in time to cushion them from the blast that tore the Growler apart from the inside out. The ancient vehicle added its own explosion to the force, shrapnel flying away from the now-charred chassis as the pressure built up against Mordecai's erected shield. Eventually, something gave; the force of the blast pushed them back, though remained unable to crack the psychic wall separating it and the three Space Marines it propelled. In essence, they managed a 'rocket jump', the thrust provided by the combined force of the blast carrying them high into the air in an arcing fall. They slammed down onto the ramparts of Canterlot with impressive synchronisation, rising as one to deal with the oncoming Guards that by now had managed to recover some degree of wits about them. It was an insultingly one-sided affair, Lorkhan and the line Astartes producing firearms and sending mass-reactive shells thudding through armour and into brittle pony bodies whilst Mordecai crushed their bones with but a gesture. Soon, the Space Marines were all the remained living on the walls, surrounded by clumps of fallen Xenos.
"I confess...I am pleasantly surprised." Mordecai said, brushing himself down. Lorkhan spared him an angry glance before returning his attention back up to the Castle. Silhouetted by a now-utterly crimson sky, it loomed over the three, the weight of fate hanging over both it and their own shoulders.
The bolt slammed through their brother's chest, tearing apart the power armour as if it were paper. The Iron Warrior's head snapped back, dark blue flames sprouting from his eyes as he stumbled backwards and fell from the walls, tumbling end over end into the chasm below. Lorkhan swore vehemently as he watched his brother plummet, returning his attention along with Mordecai to the source of the shot.
The Princess of the Night, the one who had called for their deaths from the very beginning, hovered above them, wings flapping and face contorted in an expression of pure outrage. It all seemed, by Mordecai's reckoning, bizarrely poetic. The sense of mutual loathing was tangible, neither side wanting to move and give away its intent to the other.
The deep, booming retort of the Titan's war horn broke the stand-off. Both the Princess and the Space Marines looked to it, and its canine face stared back - part hungrily, part in challenge. Though it had not moved, the predatory air remained thick around it. The Pony seemed to fall prey to it, shifting her glare from the two below her to the titanic construct. Lorkhan sought to capitalise, aiming his bolt pistol straight for her. It was only an outstretched arm from Mordecai that held him at bay.
"Far be it from me to question, my lord, but I must point it out that it is still the day." He nodded towards the castle. "Our plan takes us up there."
"But we can kill her." The Warsmith growled. Mordecai had to fight to hold back an eye roll.
"Of course we could." He agreed. "Yet, haste demands we keep moving." Lorkhan still took a moment to lower his arm, his anger at the sorcerer barely hidden.
"Who made you Warsmith?" He growled, finally turning away and setting off. "Just be ready to get us all out of this shit-hole when we're done, I've already put out the recall order to all the other idiots." Mordecai offered no verbal acknowledgement, but he knew it wasn't needed; instead, as Luna hurtled towards the waiting Titan, he took one final glance at their objective and the flaming city before it.
It had been fun, certainly, but now it was time to finish this.
For saying he was an Iron Warrior, trenches remained one of the most miserable locales impossible for Zuko to imagine. Nevertheless, for all the shit he had to traipse through and the endless hours of bored waiting for a brief gap in an artillery barrage, there was one distinct advantage that cramped earthworks gave him. He didn't have to run.
The sergeant was fairly certain that whatever was left of his lungs were by now reduced to shrivelled and burnt husks within his already-abused chest cavity. He'd been maintaining an almost-constant sprint since taking his leave of Rorke, passing through what remained of Ponyville and hurdling the splintered remains of the 'battle' between Equestria's tank corps and the IV Legion. The Titan loomed on the horizon, still a considerable distance away as it waited outside the city. Zuko followed the train line as closely as he could, seeming to push himself past the limits of even Astartes endurance as he ran.
He had a sneaking feeling that he knew where the strength came from. It didn't fill him with confidence.
Against all rational odds, he made it without expiring on the spot. Zuko was even more surprised when he didn't even collapse to his knees from exhaustion. It seemed he hadn't been lying to his brother; he really was pissed off.
The Space Marine's face grew as close to sorrowful as his eyes came to rest on the wreckage that had once been the Growler, lying a distance away at the other end of the bridge. It was unheard of for the Iron Warriors to even name their vehicles, but here Zuko could not help but feel a wave of remorse sweep him. Besides one another, the Growler and the Olympian Sun had been the two things that had stuck with the Thirteenth Company through all the years of warfare. To see them reduced to such a state was, in truth, painfully poignant.
The sound of gunfire echoing from the walls brought his attention snapping back to the present. It faded as quickly as it had arrived, his brothers finishing their work with trademark efficiency. Zuko considered tapping into the vox again, trying a more direct attempt to reach them, when something caught him by surprise. A shape fell from the wall, spinning end over end as it clattered down. Even at this distance, the profile of tumbling Power Armour was unmistakeable. Zuko watched it fall, unable to tear himself away until it had passed out of sight. Who had that been, he wondered? Which one of his brothers? One he'd almost liked?
Any such thoughts were cut short as the Iron Warrior's head nearly exploded from the roar of the Warhound's war horn. His proximity to the god-machine left him almost deafened in its aftermath, stumbling around in a daze as he willed his ears to hear again. In any case, he didn't have long to do so. A shadowy figure appeared atop the ramparts, wings spread and a corona of magic enveloping her horn visible even from this distance. Zuko squinted through his disorientation, gritting his teeth as he made out the figure of Luna staring down the Titan. Props to her, she wasn't backing down, but she was also making his life infinitely harder.
With painstaking slowness, the Titan began to raise its other weapon - a corrupted Inferno Cannon - and take aim at the pony. The daemon locked inside the thing's head was growing impatient and ravenous, Zuko knew, a situation only likely to get worse as more of it kin spilled into Equestria. He took another look at the Warhound as Luna leapt from the wall, sailing through the air towards it and sending bolts of blue magic scorching into its armour. Now that the time came to actually put his plan into action, he could fully appreciate what an utterly idiotic scheme it was, but the Iron Warrior had come too far now to walk away. Taking a deep breath, and cursing himself for what must have been the twentieth time that day, Zuko ran to the Titan's leg, grabbed some of the exposed cabling that hung from the back, and began to climb.
It was a long, difficult process, and more than once Zuko hung loose and supported by the tight grip of only one hand, legs dangling in the empty air below him. The Titan kept moving, which didn't help matters, as it tried to pivot and keep up with the belligerent Princess. It did not fire as it took shuddering steps onto the bridge, unable to bring her into line for long enough to manage a convincing kill shot. Conversely, Luna's shots - powered seemingly as much by rage as they were by magic - did seem to be bothering the metallic beast. One managed to strike an eye, punching out one of the red glows in a fizzle of purple light. The blasts did not stagger the Warhound, but even so Zuko twitched slightly as a magical beam sailed centimetres in front of his face.
Eventually, and with some difficulty, he made it onto the arm of the Titan - the Inferno Cannon side, to be precise. Even though the gun had not fired, it was still warm through the soles of Zuko's boots, and he held his arms out to stabilise himself on the unsteady platform. He looked up, trying not to think of the drop or vengeful princess below him. His eyes came to rest on the walls, still some way away - if he could just get the Titan to walk a little closer...
Had he not been a hardened warrior of lost Olympia, Zuko would have yelped as he danced from foot to foot like some deranged steel monkey to avoid the blasts landing at his feet. He managed to draw a bolt pistol, hastily aiming it and sending a few worthless rounds into the sky. Predictably, they missed, Luna evading his wild shots with consummate ease. A beam landed a glancing blow on his bionic hand, knocking the pistol clear; he grunted, rubbing it as he looked at her. The pony hovered a few feet away, furious eyes locked on the Iron Warrior. No words needed to be spoken; there were none that would have mattered, anyway. She dipped her head, horn charging to power another blast that would finish him for good.
Whether by luck or judgement, it was the Titan that saved him. It jerked round to one side, Inferno Cannon swinging through the air with such speed that Zuko lost his balance. She couldn't adjust her aim in time to account for the slide that sent him tumbling towards the side of the gun. Instinctively, he stuck out an arm, wincing as he managed to grasp one of the weapon's exhaust ports and hold on whilst his shoulder was practically yanked straight from its socket. Luna had already taken off again, returning to engage the Titan in mid-air. Storm clouds and winds buffeted the side of it along with the magic, but the two were locked at a deadly impasse; neither was able to land a convincing, telling blow on the other. As he hung over the side, trying with all his might not to let go and tumble to his death, Zuko dispassionately wondered why Luna didn't just use the near-divine power he suspected her kind possessed....then again, whilst moving the moon was impressive, the Princesses had only rarely demonstrated any real power - and he knew that they could die. It probably didn't, the Iron Warrior considered, take much to rule over the ponies. It was a simplicity he found, even now, he envied.
Eventually, and though it did his arm no good, he managed to pull himself up. Forcing his shoulder back into place for the time being, and letting his body cope with the pain, Zuko took a glance over the edge. The fight had been going for almost twenty minutes without pause now, and she was clearly tiring. Folding her wings in, the Princess came to land on the ground before the Titan. Beneath a mass of ruffled hair and a wonky crown, she stared up defiantly.
The Nox was little more than a beast, a hungry and slavering thing that cared for little more than its next kill. But Zuko was a man, albeit a mutilated and corrupted husk of one, and he was able to view things with a more cautious eye. Therefore, it didn't take him more than a few seconds to realise the trap.
"No, no, you silly bitch..." He hissed, though even he wasn't sure whether he was speaking to the Titan or the Pony. The Warhound didn't heed his words, aiming its Plasma Blastgun square at her. Still, she did not falter. Once again blue coils of energy lit up along the gun, the air beginning to crackle with the charge of plasma running through the Titan's veins. Zuko barely felt it. He was already running.
At the last moment after it fired, Luna sprang into action, forcing her wings to carry her straight upwards. The torrent of fire missed her by a hair's breath, but it did something. The parts of the bridge that weren't atomised began to crumble; only slowly at first, but then with greater and greater chunks falling away. The damage compromised the entire structure, the walkway evaporating under the force of the blast - with the Titan still on it.
It seemed to finally realise it had been played, making a last-ditch sprint for the great gatehouse. Zuko ran with it, the tip of the Inferno Cannon the only point of the universe he cared about for that moment. The walker was not fast enough; like some bloated ballerina, it pitched, finding no purchase for its feet to stand on. An almost sentient shriek leaving its horns, the Titan began to fall.
But it had crossed the distance. Reaching the edge of the gun just in time, Zuko jumped, squeezing every last bit of strength out of his bionic legs as he could. Without them, he would not have made it, and as he sailed through the air the Iron Warrior paid a quiet moment of thanks to the fallen Nu'val. Even so, it was a close thing. His gauntlets just about managed to land atop the ramparts, scrabbling desperately for any kind of handhold. He eventually found one in the form of a chipped lump of stone, hands wrapping around it for all he was worth. The Iron Warrior hung limp for a moment facing the white wall before heaving with all he was worth, managing to get himself to relative safety on his final attempt. Every muscle in his body screaming, and the bones feeling like they were about to turn to dust, Zuko finally allowed himself to collapse to his knees, panting like a dog. He screamed a growling, incoherent shout, if only to work off some of the adrenaline. When he had just about calmed down, he turned back - though did not yet stand - to see what had befallen the Titan.
It didn't take much deduction to figure it out. Luna had tricked it into blowing the bridge, but she was tired, and hadn't reckoned on its size. She'd been unable to fly fast enough to evade it, ending up caught by the Warhound's raw bulk. Denied the ability to free herself, Luna was bound to her fate as much as the beast she'd slain was. The last sight Zuko had of her and the Lupus Nox were of the pair plunging into the abyss below.
He forced the image from his mind, rising to his full on shaking knees. Part of him wanted to simply lie back down and expire on the spot. It was only his Legion's creed that kept him going; Iron Within, Iron Without. Kill Mordecai. Kill the one responsible for all of this. Then, and only then, would Zuko allow himself permission to die.
Taking only a few moments for rest, Zuko set off towards the castle.
The staccato, punching bark of his assault cannon slowly cycled down to nothing as the barrels smoked and steamed. Vortun's constantly fluid face twisted in an ugly sneer as he admired his handiwork, cannon morphing back into a grossly oversized power fist. The few pony bodies that he'd torn apart with his weapon lay in broken heaps before him, the remains almost indistinguishable with the damage wrought upon them.
There was, in truth, not much more to kill. They had been exceedingly thorough thus far, the Iron Warriors making a point to scour every centimetre of the township for Xenos life. He wasn't sure exactly where his brothers had gone, but the Obliterator had found himself so caught up in the orgy of violence that he no longer cared. Without thinking, his right hand convulsed and reshaped itself into the form of a baroque heavy flamer. Polluted flame shot from the nozzle of the gun and doused the ground in thick streams of burning promethium, soon spreading to lick up the side of the few timber buildings that remained. He swung the gun around with wild abandon, shivering in ecstatic delight at the feel of burning oil course through what had once been his veins. Losing himself to the moment, Vortun threw back his head, cackling manically.
He stomped forward, taking little time to observe the damage his array of weaponry caused as he discharged it without thought or heed. The process of destruction itself was enough to satisfy and sustain him, driving the corpulent warrior on to his next atrocity. He passed by the wreckage of the town hall, the rotund structure knocked almost flat by its collision with one of the Heldrakes. It was only a little further on before he reached another graveyard. Here, however, the situation was sufficiently odd to cause the Obliterator to pause, his brow furrowing.
The bodies of the seven or so Iron Warriors lay strewn out before him, crumpled where they had been slain. It didn't take more than a passing glance for Vortun to reach his conclusion; these Marines had not been killed by magic or spears, but instead with weaponry that only they themselves would use. He knew the distinct mark of plasma weapon wounds by now well enough. Coming closer, another stark factor made itself apparent. Though their bolters remained, most of his brothers' side-arms and grenades were missing. Even considering his daemonically-powered form, the scene still sent a wave of unease rippling through the Obliterator. From the corner of his eye, Vortun was just about able to make out the mashed remains of his kin. When the first Obliterator had been slain, the sense of loss was palpable. The fact that he could probably guess exactly what had laid this one low only further increased his paranoia.
Amazingly, he managed to set it aside, reasoning that the vengeful spectre of his dead brother - for what else could have been the cause? - was not here right now. It was not long before Vortun returned to his rampage, murderous intent now laced with slight amusement at Rorke's failure. He found himself drawn to the remnants of the bakery before too long, though most of the top had already been torn away. He shouldered his way through the rubble with little effort or thought, colossal boots shattering the wooden beams that had fallen to the floor beneath him. Taking only a moment to inspect the place, Vortun let rip with the multi-melta now sprouting from his arm. Streams of super-heated microwave energy burst from his arms, punching holes clean through the thin walls.
Let it burn. Let it all burn. Months of waiting and preparation and playing nice had led to this, and Vortun's demented fury had nowhere else to go. The violence was far-reaching and total. Let the pony-things try to run; the IV Legion was unleashed, and there was nowhere in this galaxy that they could now hide.
He tried to get a grip on her horn, seeking any purchase he could to rip and tear at Twilight's flesh. She was determined, even in her state, not to give him one. Twilight pulled herself back, sending a beam of coruscating energy into Rorke's chest. The magic struck him hard, flames licking across the front of his blood-drenched chest plate, but the crazed Space Marine barely seemed to notice it as he tried to rip her limb from limb.
In truth, the unicorn had very little control of her actions remaining. Like a marionette on a string, her body was pulled back and forth, and in the back of her mind - what rational parts of it remained - the girl could feel the pull of some insane puppeteer on her limbs as she performed spins and strikes that were no longer her own.
She lashed out with the staff, striking a convincing blow across Rorke's face that sent his head snapping to the side. It was okay, she thought to herself as she levitated above the ground. She could handle it. She was having to use a lot of power, true, but nothing Twilight couldn't control. She...she could stop any time she wanted. This was for her friends. She could kill this guy, and go and help her friends...and...and everything would be back the way it was.
Rorke came at her again, the Iron Warrior howling like a rabid animal as something that was half a punch, and half a frenzied attempt to claw Twilight's face sailed through the air. He moved with lightning speed, already-formidable muscles forced even further over their natural limits by whatever was empowering him. Even so, Twilight found she could move out the way with ease, sending another blast of magic into his face. Through the storm of voices, most of them unpleasant, that ran rampant through her head, it was almost as if something was whispering secrets directly into her head; allowing her to see where the blows would fall moments before they did so and react accordingly. The prognostication, however limited, was intoxicating to Twilight. She darted around him, letting the magic almost overtake her as she struck out with waves of pure sorcery.
It took her a while to realise it herself, but even with her eyes glowing an incandescent white, Twilight realised that she was crying. The tears trickled down her cheeks, glistening as they sparkled in the light generated by her spells. They did not drive her to sob, or break down, but still Twilight found she was painfully aware of every one. Why was she crying? She was winning! That's what her friends would want...she was gonna save them...she had the power to do it, she could save every pony...
The world's eyes were on her. Again, Twilight didn't know how she knew that, but the roiling skies above her flashed with eager lightning as something peered down at the two duelling creatures. Despite her single-minded focus, she was unable to ignore the feeling of what she could only describe as talons tracing gently down her spine, sending a shiver through the unicorn's body. Every nerve ending felt like it was ablaze, sending fire coursing through Twilight's system. It wasn't like an ordinary fire that merely scorched and burnt. This felt dirty, a filthy rock settling in her gut and slowly pushing its way to all her extremities. It tightened around her heart and brain, almost causing her vision to disappear before her as it began to constrict her brain. Twilight bit her lower lip so hard it drew blood, stumbling back as Rorke used her momentary weakness to press the attack and bear down on top of her. A couple of magical blasts were enough to free herself, but the pressure closing in on her brain remained. What sounded scarily like the cackle and cawing of ravens circling around her, each and every sound only making the feeling welling up inside her even more intense. Magic was leaking freely from her horn now, and Twilight found that she had no hope of even trying to control it, her breaths short, sharp and ragged.
They broke apart, sliding backwards to face one another; Twilight still hovering, Rorke hunched over on all fours in a bestial stoop. She gasped, the hoof carrying the heavy staff trembling in exhaustion. The noises and the flame inside her were deafening now, but Twilight gritted her teeth and fought to marshal it. Raising her head slowly, she was able to muster enough self-control to look Rorke straight in the eye.
Twilight had expected many things; directionless hatred, animalistic atavistic fury, the soulless glare of a broken madman. What she hadn't expected was what she got. What remained of the Iron Warrior crouched utterly still, for once devoid of any twitches and convulsions. It was the eyes, however, that were the worst thing. Of the berserk, unpredictable creature she knew Rorke to be, nothing remained there. Instead, something else - an ancient, hungry intelligence - stared back out. It was at that moment, seconds before she herself was overwhelmed, that the glow from Twilight's eyes dissipated and she realised she had never once been in control of the power she'd borrowed.
Hope, girl. That's the most potent drug of all.
She screamed as the light slammed down from the heavens and enveloped her, finally crying in earnest; partly in agony, and part as she realised how far she'd sank. The full knowledge of what had befallen her friends sank its mocking claws into her mind, but the lilac unicorn barely had the capacity to process this information as the fires of change raged around her. Her shoulders burned, something pulsating and growing beneath the skin; without warning two colossal, feathered pinions tore their way out of her back in a shower of blood and torn flesh. She screamed again, almost blacking out from the pain brought on by the invasive growth, but worse was yet to come. Her body roiled and churned as she dropped the staff, doubling over and clutching at her stomach. Across from her, Rorke was similarly affected. He had dropped to his knees, shaking more violently than ever before; almost as if bolt after bolt of lightning was being shot into his nervous system. He held his arms out to either side, palms up and head back, as if he was beseeching the skies for something. Even more horrifically, he was answered. His armour was already covered in blood, but now it poured in rivers from his mouth, his ears, his nostrils, even his eyes. Two protruding bone horns sprouted out from his temples, and between them, a burning, skull-like mark began to emblazon itself. Twilight had only moments to take this in, the pain of the loss of her friends and what was happening to her almost too much to bear.
"I...I-I'm sorry..." the whispered words were not directed to anypony in particular. Somehow, it made them hurt all the more.
The transformation hit them simultaneously, bodies managing to both crumple and expand as the stuff of raw Chaos poured into them. Claws, talons, red scales, and beaks to name but a few features warped and formed as the mortal frames of pony and Space Marine were consumed. The masses of flesh continued to grow and expand, changing from coherent outline to eldritch blob and back again in seconds. The price on their souls turned out to be just as high.
Before they were dragged into the dark places of the warp to feed the hunger of thirsting Gods, the last thing the spirits of Twilight and Rorke saw were the Daemons of Khorne and Tzeentch leap out of what had once been their bodies and begin to clash.
The city was a maze, a fact not helped by the devastation wrought upon it. Everywhere Zuko turned he was met with collapsing, burning buildings and screaming Ponyfolk. The sheer level of their panic had at first been both confusing and irritating, until he had taken a moment to really observe the surroundings. Though, as far as he could tell, the planet still remained more or less within its own reality for now, the scale of violence unleashed by the Chaos Marines had not gone unnoticed. Like moths to a bright flame, or perhaps more appropriately sharks upon catching the scent of blood, the Daemons had started to tear their way into real space. They materialised in small, roving packs, as opposed to a mass incursion, but even those numbers were more than sufficient. He slew any that tried to impede his path, though with the Neverborn such a feat was easier said than done. For their part, however, the Daemons seemed to more-or-less ignore the Iron Warrior; a short distance to his left, a giggling mob of Daemonettes whooped and flipped their way into a frightened mass of ponies. Sharp, crab-like talons slashed out, snipping to sever limbs and heads whilst the Daemons tossed them to one another like they were toy balls.
He didn't have the time, the strength, or - truth be told - the inclination to stop and try to offer some assistance. His brothers and the absolution he hoped they would provide waited within the castle, he guessed, and so that's where Zuko headed. Eventually, with more than a degree of trial and error, Zuko managed to find his way to an entrance that he could readily access, the door already pulled near off its hinges by what he assumed was the witch's psychic power. The Daemonic intruders kept snapping at his heels, scavengers staying just out of sight, if not out of mind, as they pursued a predator in search of a bigger meal. The interior was little better than the city itself, though no-where near as confusing as the Crystal castle had been, and he passed through quite a few hallways, grand chambers, pantries and other stately rooms at breakneck speed before the sergeant felt like he knew where he was going. The Daemons had dispersed swiftly after following him in, rabid instincts focusing more on their own hunting than tormenting the Astartes anymore. That was, Zuko guessed, what accounted for the lack of Guards. Brave and loyal though they may have been, a fight against any of the Neverborn could only go one way for them.
Tapestries were aflame and burning, as were many of the carpets; the aftermath of the plasma blast that had been used to penetrate the cities' shield. It made the already tricky process of navigation even more of a challenge, the Iron Warrior racing against time to find his way. He didn't know how far ahead his brothers had got, or even if they were still here, but one way or another the general sense of the world ending around him was enough to spur the Space Marine on. His foot smashed through doors, bearded face twisting in a frustrated snarl at dead end after dead end. Glass and stone was shattering and tumbling as tainted winds buffeted the towering castle, drying to drag it down. If nothing else, he had to keep climbing.
Eventually, he began making noticeable progress. Gritting his teeth and with his Legion's creed hammering through his mind, Zuko kept running as he emerged from a side-door, aiming for the grand staircase to his left. The room rumbled, what remained of the gilded chandelier above his head shaking and jangling with each reverberation. The Space Marine took the steps two at a time, bounding up as if he had springs in his heels. His impressive pace lasted until he got to the top of the stairs.
Ice-blue magic struck his pauldron, spinning the Iron Warrior round and driving him to his knees. With a pained cough, Zuko managed to stand and face his aggressor. The ponies' white fur was matted with blood, his shield-emblazoned chest plate chipped and cracked. Not all the blood was his own, Zuko realised; impressively, the pony had actually managed to take down at least one of the Daemonic creatures. Any latent admiration that may have generated was swiftly snuffed out by the look of exhausted fury in the creature's eyes.
"Oh, blood of the Primarch." The Iron Warrior snapped, rolling his eyes. "I do NOT have time for this right now!" Shining Armour glared back, snarling wordlessly as he launched another volley of magical blasts. Zuko managed to avoid or, at worst, shrug them off, drawing a bolt pistol - his last one that still had ammo - and returning fire in due course. Shining managed to leap aside from the bullets with surprising athleticism, or deflecting those that didn't explode on empty stone wall with what remained of his magical shield.
"This is your fault!" He shouted, landing on his feet and panting. Zuko's gun chose that moment to run dry, eliciting another growl from the Iron Warrior. "Are you happy now?" Shining went on. "Do you all feel like tough guys?"
"Listen, part of me wishes I'd just let you kill me when we duelled the first time we got here," Zuko began, seeing no harm in lying. "And...no." He looked down, shaking his head. "No...I don't...that's the point of all this. I have to...I'm not even sure what this is all about any more, but I have to get up there!" His head rose, pointing upwards. The honesty of his statement seemed to catch Shining off guard. The Guard Captain raised a bemused eyebrow, mouth hanging loose. Eventually, recognition did seem to kick in, his eyes narrowing.
"It...it is you..." He nodded, baring his teeth. "When you all broke out and got us into this mess...t-then let's finish this. You, me, one on o-"
"Not a Champion of Chaos anymore." Zuko said, holding up a hand to stop him. "At least that's one advantage to this whole thing." Again, Shining was stumped, but his expression once again became hostile.
"And my sister?" he snapped, clearly close to breaking point. "What about Twily? What have you done to her?" Normally, the Iron Warrior would have felt nothing at such an accusation, but the concern for a sibling couldn't help but stir the little fragments of humanity that still remained at the back of Zuko's mind.
"She was already gone...though if nothing else, I expect she's going to take one of the biggest monsters I've ever had the misfortune of knowing down with her." He explained. For a moment, the grief seemed to overwhelm Shining, tears leaking out as his face cracked. The expression was soon quashed, anger taking his place.
"Why are you here, anyway?" Zuko asked, confusion of his own setting in. "You're her praetorian, shouldn't you be with your Princess?" Again, he question seemed to surprise Shining. Where grief had existed moments before, now there was a flash of unease.
"She...told me to man the defences..." He confessed. "While she stayed in the main chamber."
"Playing the hero." Zuko muttered. He looked at Shining, trying his best to project some form of solidarity. "Listen...you have no reason to trust me, but this fight won't serve either of us. Our deaths don't matter; all that matters is I go, and I kill the bastard responsible for all of this. That is what I care about, and that is what I am going to do...but haven't we already proven our points to one another by now?"
Shining's response was cut short by the sound of claws raking and scratching at the door across the room, at the bottom of the stairs. They both turned to face it, instinctively dropping into a battle stance.
"Go." The pony said, not looking away. His words were unforeseen enough to cause Zuko to look down at him. "I said go!" Shining snapped, putting on his most authoritative voice. "If you're really gonna go and make this right, then you'd best hurry...they must be nearly there by now." He sighed, tensing as the scratching became more frenzied. "And...avenge my sister...she didn't deserve any of this. None of us did." His voice grew stony, but Zuko took him at his word, nodding and turning to leave. "Oh, and one more thing." The Guard Captain said, stopping the Iron Warrior in his tracks. He paused a moment. "I hope you all rot in Tartarus."
Zuko too took his time to reply. "If we're lucky."
He left quickly, the sound of his boots on the stone floor eventually drifting away to be out of earshot. Shining almost felt a pang of regret as he left; Zuko had sounded sincere enough, but this entire day was testament to how easily they had been fooled. But...but if he was...then maybe Twilight, Cadence, and all the rest that had died pointlessly could find some peace.
As the door finally burst open and the marauding pack of Flesh Hounds charged towards him, Captain Shining Armour prepared to sell his life dearly.
She had not been looking at anything in particular when they arrived. Even if there was something out there that Celestia was searching for, it would have been gone by now. As far as she could see was ruination. Smoke rose from what must have been the wreckage of Ponyville by now, a sad ominous blot on the horizon. In truth, it was hard to make out where the burning of the surrounding land ended and that from Canterlot began. The sound of shattering buildings, not to mention the screams of her subjects rose into the air. Every one of them tugged on her heartstrings and brought her to the edge of melancholy. At least when the Changeling's had attacked, she could use her genuine surprise as a reason for not intervening. Now, the Princess had no such excuse, bar the simple knowledge that she couldn't help.
She'd felt Twilight be overtaken by whatever foul things the Space Marines had called forth. She didn't know what was worse; the fact that her faithful student was gone and there was nothing she could have done, or the terrible suspicion that Twilight had brought this fate upon herself. She'd felt the loss of Luna, too. That one was even harder to take, after being reunited after so long comparatively recently, and it was taking all of Celestia's self-control not to hurl herself from the windows. The fact that her sister had managed to fell the monstrous war machine that had annihilated Shining Armour's shield only made her feel even prouder, and the sense of loss that much more acute.
Celestia's reverie was broken by the sound of the throne room's great doors being slammed open. She turned her neck, though didn't actually move, to look towards the intrusion. The two figures stood stock-still in the doorway, one leaning on his axe, the other with a hand on the pommel of his sword and looking around imperiously. She kept her face impassive, unwilling to give them the satisfaction of her fury, and did not speak. That seemed to suite the Iron Warriors just fine; after a few moments of silent holding one another's glares, they began to walk towards her. The rhythmic tap of the axe-shaft on the ground reminded her of the Grand Galloping Gala, the last time she'd seen the Warsmith; despite the awkwardness, at least that had been a happy night.
"I should have executed you as I intended when you arrived." She said, keeping her voice monotone and firm. "Perhaps then we would have avoided all this last-minute stuff."
"We are last minute stuff." Mordecai said politely, keeping a few steps behind his captain as they advanced. Lorkhan said nothing, red eyes locked with Celestia's purple orbs. In short order, he had reached her, staring down at the Princess. She tried her best to remain defiant, knees refusing to quiver. Surprisingly, he did not kill her. Instead, the Warsmith turned, looking out the window she had a few moments ago. She joined him, pony and Space Marine standing together in silence as they watched the world tear itself apart.
"Well?" He asked. Something in his tone, beneath the growling and the bluntness, that Celestia could not pinpoint spoke out to her, enough to convince her to turn to him with brow furrowed. "You're their God." Lorkhan said, voice unchanged as he continued to stare out the window. "Aren't you going to...drop the sun on us or something? Run us through with solar rays?"
In spite of everything, Celestia actually laughed, though it was without mirth. "And what would be the point?" She countered. "I'll give you this much, it was a brutally efficient plan...and my hesitation only helped you." She sighed. "You've already won...congratulations, Lorkhan." Again, he was silent.
"You know...you remind me of a man called Rogal Dorn...an Imperial Fist." He admitted, looking down at her at last. "And I hate Imperial Fists." The truth of his words were self-evident, but still there was a hint of something Celestia could not place in his words. At his shoulder, Mordecai waited, doing his best to pretend to look around innocently
"Stop it." It was him that spoke again. She was still looking at him, as he folded his arms, looking away as she raised an eyebrow. "I said stop." He repeated. "Stop judging me. We all knew this would happen, and it was only ever a matter of time." If she didn't know better, she would have said there was almost a hint of desperation in his words, a desire to prove it as much to himself as to her. Lorkhan had always been a figure of mystery and yes, fear, to the Princess. Yet, not even when he spoke of his father had he seemed quite so maudlin.
"You want me not to judge you?" She said, shaking her head. "Please, you're slow, but you're not stupid Lorkhan - and neither am I." She grimaced, something in his almost child-like indignation threatening to awake her maternal instincts. "We both know exactly what we think of the other." It wasn't the answer he'd wanted to hear, although she couldn't think of what that could possibly be.
"By what right does Gold judge Silver?" His voice was a growl again, hand tightening on the hilt of his axe. "I did what I did for my Legion, and my brothers. Everything you would have done if you were in my place."
"No." She said, quietly. "Not everything." The two leaders lapsed once more into an awkward silence, the usual dry and piercing remarks of the Space Marines absent. Even the sorcerer stood behind them remained quiet. Eventually, Lorkhan spoke. As he did so, Celestia finally realised what the emotion in his voice was. It was weariness.
"Then we are at an impasse." He pronounced. They were the words she'd been waiting for him to say the moment he'd entered. She sighed, running her tongue through her cheek and forcing her beating heart to still.
"No, Lorkhan." The Princess argued. "We are at an end." Her words lay heavy in the room's air, even Mordecai tensing slightly. She finally turned to face him proper, eyes still focused and resolute. He grunted, any further words rendered obsolete. The Warsmith rotated to stand square before her, both hands on the axe as he raised it up. It hovered there, for a moment; she thought he would say something, but the Iron Warrior remained quiet, all emotion locked behind his helmet. She felt that, at the last, perhaps she should say something, but the words would not come. She could not even guarantee that the Warsmith was listening.
"Wherever he is, Lorkhan," Celestia said at last, closing her eyes. "I hope your Father is proud."
He hesitated a moment longer, before the axe fell.
The decapitated body remained standing for a moment longer before slumping at his feet, red coppery lifeblood flowing freely from the neck. It flowed across the floor like a trickling stream, pooling at the lord of the Iron Warrior's feet. He remained still, axe held level. The drip, drip, drip of the blood on its blade dropping onto the floor was like a hammer to the silence.
"An excellent stroke, my Lord." Mordecai said, sounding nothing but genuine. Lorkhan didn't look at him - he didn't seem to be looking at anything.
"Shut up." He snapped, casting his brother a sidelong glance with burning red eyes. The anger seemed to leave him in a sigh, shoulders falling slightly. When he next spoke, the words that followed were devoid of much of the wrath. "That...did not feel as good as I expected it to."
Their attention was swiftly drawn back to the body as light began to envelop it. The glow was soft, disguising the chalk-white fur and bloody mess as it spread across the corpse. They both stepped back, watching intently. Neither could place exactly what it was, but given what they had observed and hypothesised of Celestia's powers, it was hardly surprising.
"Can you work with it?" Lorkhan asked. Mordecai nodded, his body language betraying the concealed smile.
"I can certainly give it a jolly good go, my lord." He agreed, rubbing his hands together as he stepped forward. Lorkhan left him to it, knowing better than to try and interrupt when Mordecai was muttering his incantations and playing with fire. In any case, he didn't feel much like talking. He was walking to the window as the sorcerer worked his magic, reforming the light into the shape of some kind of doorway. Lorkhan didn't like to admit it, but right now he was operating on guesswork and Mordecai's assurances alone - it was he that had claimed that utilising the full extent of magical power Celestia had inside her, in conjunction with the rapidly-spreading Warp breach, might be enough to open a portal and get them 'home'...or at least, out of Equestria. It sounded almost too good to be true, but sure enough, the whiteness began to coalesce into a portal-like shape. It didn't stop at the height of a man, or even a Space Marine; Mordecai kept going, expanding it with whispered invocations to his Gods. Soon enough, it was getting big enough for several Astartes to walk through abreast. What was he trying to get through there? An army?
The sun had gone dark, even behind the tortured sky. It didn't help Lorkhan's mood as he stared out the window, though rationally he convinced himself he was glad. Celestia was right. They had won. He had won...never mind that it felt so hollow. It was for those reasons, and more besides, that he almost missed the noise of power armoured boots striking the stones.
"You made it, then."
Zuko had to fight to stop himself skidding as he came to a halt in the doorway. The abrupt end to the clattering of his feet on stone that had rang in his ears since he'd entered the castle was deafening, though the fatigued buzzing in his head brought on by exhaustion did help take some of the edge off it. For all the Iron Warrior knew, his lungs were no more than shrivelled husks within the cavity of his chest, and even with all his gene-wrought strength Zuko's vision swam before him. He could barely make out Lorkhan as the Warsmith issued his statement, and so elected to say nothing, wheezing heavily, and hardening his expression in an attempt just to stay on his feet.
"You've lost the helmet." Lorkhan nodded, folding his arms across his chest. The statement was painful in its obviousness, but even in his addled state Zuko could detect a hint of distraction in the other Iron Warrior's voice. "Not surprised, it was probably getting stuffy in there." It wasn't framed as a joke, but even if it had been the humour was swiftly lost as the Warsmith finally noticed the wound punched through his brother's chest. "Bloody hell...what happened to you?"
"Yes, I would quite like to know the answer to that as well." The voice caused Zuko's ears to prick up, gritted teeth contorting into a snarl as the Psyker stepped forth. Mordecai's voice, usually so measured and friendly, had taken on a distinctly sharp edge. Ignoring the look Lorkhan cast him, he stepped forward, helmeted head cocked to the side. "For saying the request I relayed to our favourite little attack dog was remarkably straight-forward, one does have to wonder how you maintain such resilience?"
The sergeant did not respond immediately, the smouldering fury in his eyes that was directed straight for the Psyker being words enough. When he did speak, it was in his standard, deadpan tone.
"Friendship is magic."
The sarcasm wasn't lost on any of them, though Mordecai was the only one who let his head roll back and laughed. "Well said." He chuckled, nodding. "Still, that does leave you and I in a rather...awkward...position."
"Oh, what did I say!" Lorkhan snapped, throwing a hand up in frustration before pointing at the sorcerer. "I knew it! I knew you were up to som-"
"Yes yes, an Iron Warrior was up to something." Zuko knew Mordecai must have been rolling his eyes as he held up a hand to quiet Lorkhan. "I was the true villain, the scheming vizier was the man behind the man, etcetera etcetera. What an unexpected plot twist. How very truly droll." He looked at Zuko again, head tilting the other way as if he were examining some choice cut of meat. "Don't get me wrong, your tenacity is a credit to us all, but you really have picked an appalling time to rediscover your moral compass."
He had known Mordecai since first being assigned to the Thirteenth Company, and the temptation to throw himself at the sorcerer and rip his head off had never been stronger for Zuko. He managed to resist it, though that in itself was a challenge. He exhaled, shackling his temper, glaring at the wizard.
"It's amazing what you can pick up on the vox, Mordecai." Was what he did say, choosing not to rise to the bait. "What did she look like? Rarity, the one creature here who actually liked you." His eyes narrowed even further. "Before you ritually murdered her for no discernable reason."
"Probably the same as her sister when you brought her world crashing down around her." He retorted. Zuko flinched as if struck. "Apologies." Mordecai said, the sincerity in his voice making the sergeant's skin crawl. "That was childish of me, brother. I had no intention of burdening you with that particular betrayal."
"Forgive me for breaking up this little meeting." Lorkhan hissed, stepping forward. "But the point remains, you've still crossed a line, witch." Despite his dislike for Mordecai, it was rare for Lorkhan to call him 'witch', and it suggested only one thing. Zuko's brow furrowed in confusion as he shifted his gaze to the Warsmith.
"You...didn't know..." He said, slowly. The Warsmith looked at him, the grin of the skull half of his helmet utterly at odds with the tension in the room.
"Of course I didn't bloody know." His voice was low and threatening. Mordecai was unfazed, stepping back as he reached into the pouches at his belt.
"You wound me, my brothers. I have done nothing to deserve this antagonism, bar acting in the manner befitting our status as rightful inheritors of the Galaxy. Really, you should be thanking me. By my efforts, the Gods themselves know of our deeds here."
"You say that like it's a good thing." Zuko growled, still rooted to the spot. Mordecai chuckled again, although his irritation remained just under the surface, as he produced a small flat device from his belt.
"It was not so very long ago you both were content to serve in much the same capacity, willingly or not." He pointed out. "I must say, the lack of stomach you both seem to have developed is rather jarring. You need only look at what we have accomplished here!" He clicked his thumb on the side of the machine, light spluttering up from it. Zuko wasn't sure where the holographic projector was drawing its feed from - servo skulls the Psyker had released, perhaps - but sure enough the blue image crackled into 3-D life. The dilapidated, broken ruins of Ponyville appeared, drawing all their eyes with unerring focus. He clicked again, the image this time shifting to the remnants of Sweet Apple Acres. Although he couldn't see it, Zuko knew the Crusader's clubhouse lay in the trees not far off. The angry knife twisted further in his gut as he realised that it too was probably little more than burnt timber. The Psyker clicked again, this time the picture actually shifting to something living. If Lorkhan had before been hunched and brooding, now he stood straight as an arrow.
"She wasn't part of the deal." In all the years Zuko had known him. He'd never heard more emotion in the Warsmith's voice, which came dangerously close to cracking. Mordecai nodded, still keeping the image of Fluttershy trying desperately to hide with what looked like a mangled leg on the projector.
"No." He agreed. "She was not, and I truly am sorry. The poor little wretch has done nothing to deserve this, bar inhabit the home we built for her. Yet, needs must." There was an unmistakeable sense that he was enjoying this a little. "Although I must say, Lorkhan, many of our brothers in the fourth legion would disapprove to see the regard you hold for this...Xenos." Lorkhan was silent, still staring at the trembling pony projected before them. Zuko watched him, but had no idea what thoughts were going through his head.
"You must have known..." He said at last, clearly struggling to keep his emotions in check. "That I would not permit you to do this." The grip on his axe tightened, yet still Mordecai showed no sign of distress.
"Alas, we appear to have reached rather the same conclusion, my lord." His voice was heavy in regret. "Though in sight of all we have accomplished together, this all feels so decidedly...uncouth."
He moved like lightning, free hand drawing the sword at his side and whipping it round, before stabbing forth like a rapier. The Warsmith was an experienced warrior and clad in thick plate, but none of that stopped the glowing, runic blade punching straight through his chest. The sound of Lorkhan gagging as blood welled up in his throat rang in Zuko's ears as he stepped forward, raising an arm out as if that could stop anything. Withdrawing the blade, Mordecai inclined his head slightly, a blast of telekinetic energy pushing the limp Warsmith across the floor and slamming into the wall. He crumpled, Mechatendrils slack and lifeless. Mordecai regarded the body almost piteously for a moment, before chucking over the projection of Fluttershy to skid and rest by his side.
"An unfortunately necessary sacrifice." He sighed, returning his attention to Zuko. "You mustn't feel guilty, brother. I confess, such an eventuality did seem to be likely whether you arrived or not. Our lord, despite all his virtues, would never have understood the purpose of this." He gestured behind him to the glowing white portal. "If I am disgruntled at anything, it is the fact that your presence has distracted me. This still requires the finishing touches."
Zuko looked at it, though the image of Lorkhan's murder was still burnt into his mind. He'd always imagined Lorkhan would fall in stupid single combat with something they couldn't run away from fast enough. To see him struck down like that felt...dirty in its wrongness. "I'm guessing..." he said, face level. "That that isn't designed to get us back to Medrengard safe and sound."
"Very astute." Mordecai complimented. "Though as of now, I suspect it fulfils that function, or near enough. When it is done, however, a fully stable Warp portal shall be opened within the walls of this very castle. The Legions of the Powers shall enter this world proper, and the Iron Warriors shall add more lands to our domain. We shall spread at the head of our Daemonic hosts, subjugating the other worlds sure to be found in this galaxy. Once again, the IV Legion shall be strong, taking its proper station at the feet of the Pantheon."
All of that sounded decidedly unappealing. "You are insane." Zuko said, conviction carried effortlessly in his words. There was no chuckle this time, but Mordecai was clearly amused.
"Look around you, brother. Look at the armour we wear." He spread his arms wide, as if trying to take all of Equestria in their grasp. "We're all mad here."
There was little more to be said, and more to the point, Zuko didn't doubt that Mordecai was fully capable of carrying out his plan. They were brothers of blood, but any common cause was irrevocably sundered. It was time to do what he'd come here for.
"You." Zuko's words were stone cold. "Me. Let's finish this. No weapons. No magic. No bullshit." Mordecai watched him for a moment, as if trying to discern whether the other Olympian was serious, before removing his helmet and sword, setting them on the ground with a brisk "Very well." Zuko followed suite, unclipping his bandoliers of guns and knives and dropping them from his shoulders. They faced one another, Mordecai's fists raised like a formal boxer, Zuko more akin to a brawler. Neither wanted to make the first move.
It was Zuko who cracked. He pushed off on his back foot, hoping to use the momentum to deliver a punishing right hook to the now-exposed face of his enemy. With little more than a contemptuous raise of the eyebrow, Mordecai blocked the blow with ease. He followed the motion into a spin - surprisingly elegant, despite his power armour - that culminated in a stinging backhand across Zuko's face. The struck Marine stumbled, trying to regain his footing. Mordecai didn't give him the chance, following him back and launching repeated jabs into the face. Eventually, Zuko managed to duck below one, countering with a solid uppercut beneath the chin that sent Mordecai's head snapping back. The sergeant rose with the punch, intending to bring his other fist slamming onto the Psyker's windpipe. He caught the blow at the last moment, giving Zuko's arm a vicious twist. It forced the trapped Iron Warrior to his knees, then to his back as Mordecai's foot struck up into his chest and booted him across the floor. He just managed to pull his head out the way to avoid a curb-stomp, scrambling back to his feet and launching off another barrage of punches. Their blows and parries slammed into each other's armour, sending shockwaves of energy and the sound of ceramite on ceramite around the room. Zuko managed to launch a successful feint, ducking under a right punch and managing to come up behind the sorcerer. He moved fast, hooking his arms around Mordecai's neck in an attempt to choke him. It was only briefly successful; as far as Zuko could tell, Mordecai was keeping to the rules and not using his powers, but he had the advantage of being in far better physical condition right now than Zuko. He reached back, flipping the sergeant over his shoulders and bringing him slamming onto his back, staring up at the ceiling. It knocked the wind clear from Zuko, bones jarring at the impact. Mordecai kept staring down at him with his hawk-like face, placing an armoured boot on his brother's chest. The wound had long since stopped bleeding, but it was still painful to the touch.
"You drive me to agitation, brother." Mordecai sighed, shaking his head, as if all this was somehow Zuko's fault. He made a beckoning gesture with a finger, mentally dragging his helmet and weapon to his side. Reaching down, though still pinning Zuko in place, he replaced the vestments. "You're all so...old fashioned. Behind the times, unwilling to move into this modern age. We all have fond memories of the Crusade; I respect that, I truly do. Yet it is an age long since passed, these ideals that you and the Warsmith clung too. The Legion needs Chaos if it is to survive, to thrive. It needs to accept the way of the universe, and our new place in its order."
Even now, with Death reaching its cold fingers around Zuko's one remaining heart, he found he could not pass up the opportunity to spite the posh bastard that kept him on the ground one final time. "The Legion...needs a soul..." Zuko breathed, wincing at the effort. "It needs...a purpose...to remember why we fought and died...to make things better. Because...if we let ourselves be slaves, Mordecai, whether it's to the Emperor or your Gods...then we have to face the harshest truth of all." He closed his eyes, and despite his situation, Zuko found he was finally at peace with the idea. "That everything the Iron Warriors have done...has been for nothing."
The sentiment clearly wasn't one Mordecai shared. "Though, in lighter times, I would have relished the chance to debate the issue with you, I am afraid that given the circumstances I must disavow you it far quicker brother. Perhaps it escaped your attention, but it was the Ruinous Powers that won us this victory. This is not the work of the mere subsistence pirates we had been reduced to. I respected the Warsmith as much as you, but under Lorkhan's command, we were not a threat. And yet now, in our triumph, you-"
He stopped, frowning slightly in puzzlement. As Mordecai turned his head to the side, his expression froze. Zuko squinted as he followed his gaze, looking straight up at the dark shape that towered next to him. Blood poured down the front of Lorkhan's armour, and his bionic arm hung loose at his side, but despite all that the burning wrath in the red eyes could not be mistaken.
"I am a threat."
With more strength and haste than Zuko would have thought possible, Lorkhan sprinted, roaring as he grabbed Mordecai in a bear-like embrace and pulled him along. Mordecai's movements were borderline panicked as he punched at the Warsmith, trying desperately to prise him off, but Lorkhan's grip was vice-like and his momentum unstoppable. Pushing well through the pain barrier, Zuko forced himself to his feet, sprinting after them in one last gasp. As they just about disappeared through one of the smashed windows, Mordecai screaming as Lorkhan hurled them both over the edge, Zuko leapt with them. He slid forward on his front, arm outstretched and hand ready to grasp. Amazingly, it tightened around something.
The grip of Zuko and Lorkhan on each other's arms was tenuous at best, the sheer weight of the Warsmith threatening to pull Zuko over the edge despite his prone posture. The fact that it was the arm that had so recently been dislocated didn't help matters. The Warsmith hung there, dangling helplessly as he looked down.
"Don't be a bloody idiot." He said at last, the agony in his voice forced down under layers of iron-hard grit. "Neither of us can hold this, and we both know it."
"This isn't a debate, Lorkhan." Zuko said, trying desperately to pull him up. The Warsmith hardly rose.
"Look at us, by all rights even we should be dead, and we're bloody Astartes. Let's assume you do somehow get me up, tearing both our insides to pieces in the process. Then what?" He looked down to the sheer slope of the castle below them. "All that'll mean is it'll take him a little longer to climb back up and finish us."
Zuko followed his gaze. It was true; Mordecai had managed to smash his fingers, probably helped by his wizardry, into the stone walls - tearing out little hand holds. It was difficult to make out through the gloom and the smoke, but he was climbing slowly back up; red eyes like two small foglights focused firmly on them. "That's just not logical." The Warsmith concluded. "And you know how we all feel about that."
"Lorkhan, don't you dare." Zuko instructed firmly. It garnered a laugh that quickly devolved into coughing.
"Don't tell me that, as well as all your other foolishness since we arrived, you've actually started to develop a liking for me?"
"No." Zuko clarified, unable to stop his grip loosening slightly. "But I really don't want your job...and you are my brother." They stared at one another a moment, something almost like fraternal warmth threatening to pass between them.
"I can take him." Lorkhan growled, dispersing the feeling. "I can drop...catch him...drag him down with me. Most of the others would have jumped at the chance." Without warning, Zuko's grip gave way. Now the only thing that kept the Warsmith hanging there was his own hand round Zuko's metallic arm. "Okay, that was a poor choice of metaphor."
"Why now?" Zuko grunted, teeth bared from the effort of holding him up. "After all this...why are you choosing now to be the noble one? It doesn't exactly fit the IV's ethos." Lorkhan chuckled, sighing deeply.
"Because I really fucking hate Mordecai." He answered, simply. "And because...because damnit, you were right. We have fallen. We are scum. This, all this, everything we've done here...it's nothing more than a testament to our petty, fragile egos." A strange intensity took over his words. "I want the filth cleaned from our ranks. I want the name 'Iron Warrior' to mean something again. I want to go back to the way things were...when all this had a point, when we were relevant." He looked up, eye's locked with Zuko's. "I'm not the man to do that. I never have been, I only got this job because you dragged me out of the wreckage of that command bridge millennia ago...which I still haven't forgiven you for by the way. But maybe you are that man, brother. Make our Legion great again."
He had no words. Lorkhan could not be dissuaded, and something told Zuko it would be wrong to try. His shoulder burned as it was pulled. Beneath them, Mordecai was still scaling the wall.
"Iron Within, Warsmith Lorkhan." The sergeant was quietly pleased as he realised there was no trace of sarcasm in the words.
"Iron Without, Brother-Sergeant Zuko." He paused a moment, seemingly lost in thought. "It's okay...because it turns out...I don't need a Legion, or an Emperor, or even my Primarch to tell me I'm good..." He pulled up as high as he could, casting his eyes over the lip of the window. Across the room, the hologram projector still lay there; Fluttershy's face covered by her hooves as she trembled and whimpered. He watched it for a moment, utterly focused. "Because if that little pony liked me...then how bad can I be?"
He let go.
Zuko watched them fall, instinctively reaching his arm out after the dropping shape of the Warsmith. He was on the edge of passing out, but he felt it would be wrong not to watch this to its conclusion. Lorkhan fell, arms out to his side, like a silver leaf dropping from a tree. Mordecai's cry of indignation could be heard as they collided and he was pulled harshly from the wall, the two falling down end-over-end until eventually they were hidden by the smoke.
Zuko remained watching a moment, replaying the image over and over. Eventually, he stood on shaking knees. Were he one of the Imperial Fists he so despised, it occurred to him, maybe he would have offered something like a respectful nod of the head. As it happens he merely watched. It would not do for an Iron Warrior to show such weakness.
Finally turning away, he limped over to where Lorkhan had been thrown into the wall and left for dead. The holographic projector was there, still focused on Fluttershy. He entertained the notion of taking it, even kneeling down beside the device. In the end, he decided against it. As he stood, however, he did recover the Warsmith's axe. Its weight was unfamiliar and unwelcome as he rested it on a pauldron, and part of Zuko knew that he would never truly get used to it. But that was okay. It did not matter what he felt. It only mattered what others thought he felt.
The white, glowing portal still remained. He had no reason to doubt Mordecai - that, in its current state, it did function as a doorway - but Zuko remembered other things he'd been told over the years of carnage. They were unstable, unpredictable devices, and his utilising it before it was fully prepared by the sorcerer would most likely cause it to collapse - possibly with him in it. But maybe that would be no bad thing. In any case, the sound of daemonic howling that was slowly rising through the lower floors of the castle didn't give him much of a choice.
Axe over his shoulder, knees threatening to buckle, Sergeant Zuko of the Iron Warriors left the war-wracked remnants of Equestria behind him, and stepped into the light. |
My Iron Warriors: Ordinance is Magic | Epilogue-The universe of rust | They had left him behind.
Strangely, the notion wasn't as bothersome to Vortun as he'd always imagined. The Obliterator stood surrounded by the wreckage of Ponyville, atop a small pile of charred timber. The fires had long since burnt out to little more than smoke on the gentle winds. Every house had been torn down and smashed, leaving the Obliterator the only living thing remaining - a true king of the shit pile. His beady, cold eyes focused intently on the city in the distance.
Canterlot looked just as bad, even to his naked gaze. Vortun could make out the smoke there as well, not to mention the damage wrought to the walls and roof of the main fortress. He still didn't understand exactly how Varvillon had recovered that Titan, but it had paid for itself. Yet even the God-Machine was silent now. Vortun could not imagine how; surely the Xenos could not have felled the Nox? That was preposterous. And yet, there was no sign of it.
He cycled through the vox built into what remained of his armour, eyes unblinking. If anything had come over during his frenzied rampage, he hadn't heard it, and now all that answered him for every one of his brothers was static or quiet. He went through the list once, twice, three times. Nothing. Even Mordecai was quiet, usually a blessing, and yet now Vortun found he would rather have had some form of response even if it royally pissed him off.
He was as much a creature of the warp as he was a man now, and Vortun knew he had felt something. It was impossible to tell what exactly, but the Obliterator reckoned he could make a fair guess. Part of him wanted to be angry with his brothers for their abandonment, but he found he was not. With the possible exception of their Warsmith, a strict policy of 'anyone who falls behind is left behind' had existed in the ranks of the Thirteenth Company when it came to particularly important extractions. If the order had come through, and he'd missed it, then that was his own damn fault.
Vortun sighed, clicking off the vox and finally averting his straight stare. He looked down at the mass he stood upon with disinterest. The more he looked, the more apparent it became that wood was far from the only thing in this heap. The damage from his weapon left them almost indistinguishable, but the mangled bodies of ponies too contributed their mass. It was a fine tally, by anyone's standard. If he really focused, a few details could be made out; purple glasses, a red bowtie, the tattered remains of an apron.
It was neither truly day, nor truly night. Even if the sky had not been an arterial red, or filled with the half-glimpsed shapes of daemonic creatures, Vortun could not make out any trace of the sun or moon. That suggested one thing - that both of the Princesses had fallen. At least his brothers had done something right, then. He flexed a talon, power field crackling along it involuntarily. The few daemons that remained prowled around through what had once been bustling streets, knowing when to keep a respectful distance from their kinsman.
Ponyville was not the extent of this planet, it occurred to Vortun. Zuko's little trip north had seen to that - there were other cultures and perhaps other creatures that would named this world their home. He didn't known what the death of the sun would mean for them, nor did their chances at surviving in a world touched by Chaos look particularly high anyway, but to simply ignore them would undermine all their efforts here. More than that, he was an Obliterator; he had no need for food, or rest, or warmth. Destruction was all Vortun needed to sustain him. Let his brothers run and hide in the shadows of the Imperium; he was taking orders from them. Besides, there was a whole world still full of life to crush.
Stepping down off the mountain of broken homes, the last Iron Warrior in Equestria set off with slow, ponderous steps.
"F-Fluttershy?!"
Despite the haze of pain and emotional fatigue that had descended across her vision, Fluttershy's eyes still snapped open at the voice. Forcing herself to ignore the agony for a moment in an impressive display of willpower, Fluttershy's head rose from beneath the bush she had chosen to hide beneath, looking around frantically. Normally, the Everfree would have been the last place she'd choose to go, but her injury had made travelling a long distance impossible. Besides, anywhere was better than in the path of the Space Marines.
His scales were rough and stained with blood in places, not to mention the black eye that looked like it was threatening to develop, but despite all that Spike's expression still lit up as her saw his yellow friend. He broke out in a sprint, hurtling towards her like a little purple rocket. Her joy at seeing him was such that Fluttershy tried to reciprocate and gallop out. She cried out as her broken leg took the weight, tumbling and skidding to a halt. He gasped, putting on a burst of speed to reach.
"Fluttershy, a-are you okay?" He asked, looking her up and down. "O-okay...stupid question..." He breaths were squeaking and pained as tears streamed from her eyes, and it felt for all of Equestria like Fluttershy's head would explode from the pounding that raged through it. She lay there for a moment, willing herself not to throw up. Eventually, once an ounce of strength return to her, Fluttershy leaned up, pulling Spike into a hug. He didn't flinch, wrapping his claws round her bruised back and patting the Pegasus gently as he rested his chin on her shoulder.
"I-it's okay..." The baby dragon consoled, though they both knew it was a lie. "It's okay, Fluttershy...t-they're gone." Her whimpering stopped for a moment as she drew back, looking at him with confused, puffy eyes. He nodded, though looked similarly distraught. "The Iron Warriors...they're...they're all gone." Spike nodded, desperately trying to smile. "They all just...w-went away..." The news flooded her with relief, and she hugged him tighter, almost wanting to laugh regardless of the situation they had been forced into. The sensation quickly died away as another question wormed its way into her mind.
"W...what about our friends..." Fluttershy asked in a tiny voice. The way the dragon's face dropped confirmed all her worst fears, and she could feel herself tear up again.
"They...it's just us..." He stammered, looking down, though he did not release his grip on her. "The girls...everypony else...they...there's nopony else left..." he gulped, the realisation seeming to hit him at the same time. "Rarity...I...I'll never see her again..." he looked almost shell-shocked, claws suddenly going very clammy. She tried her best to comfort him, though in truth the fact had almost broken Fluttershy too. Spike was unresponsive for a moment, hanging in her embrace like a puppet with cut strings.
"I...I hid..." He confessed, clearly ashamed by the fact. "It wasn't like they were l-looking for me...I got a bit battered when they pulled the library down but...well, you know me, I've taken worse..." It sounded like he should have laughed, but Spike's words were hollow. "But Twi...I saw her...it was like she didn't recognise me." His voice cracked at the admission, the child's psyche almost threatening to collapse entirely. Fluttershy didn't know what to say; her entire world felt it'd crumbled around her. They spent the next few moments in awkward, pained silence, not even a bird's call or whisper of wind through the trees to break it.
"Y-your leg!" He stammered, coming back to the present as he looked down. She'd almost forgotten about it. "I-I'm so sorry, Fluttershy!" She didn't know what to say, and so Fluttershy merely squeaked, letting her tangled hair fall in front of an eye.
"Come on." Spike said after a few minutes, wiping his nose and trying to inject some steel into his voice - with only some success. "We need to get out of here...find help...c-can you fly?" It was a good question, and the answer presented itself as soon as she tried to flap her wings. Maybe it had been the sheer exertion she'd put into her escape from her house, but they felt sprained and torn. She shook her head.
"G-go on without me, Spike...I'll just slow you down..." No sooner had she finished speaking than he was getting under her left side, doing his best to keep it off the ground and support her weight. It was clearly challenge even despite her lightness, but Spike did it without complaint, knees only shaking slightly.
"Nuh-uh. No way I'm leaving you, Fluttershy." He tried to take a shuddering step forward. She hobbled along as best she could, both embarrassed and touched by the sacrifices he made for her.
"S-Spike..."
"Come on..." He gasped, grinding his teeth together. "We're gonna...get out of this...I-I promise..."
She didn't argue this time, instead focusing on trying to help him along as much as she could. Spike heaving to support both of them below, Fluttershy cast a look around them, and wondered how long it would take them both to die.
"So it's true. Celestia has fallen."
The second Crystal Pony nodded, expression grim. It had been hard enough trying to manage the recovery of the Empire in the wake of the Princesses' death as it was. The sudden tidal wave of slaughter the aliens had unleashed had only further complicated matters, though in light of what they had endured, it was hardly surprising.
"Yes." He said, keeping his voice measured. "The Canterlot aristocracy is seemingly wiped to a mare, to say nothing of their Guard Force. We're on our own." The first one who had spoken muttered a curse, looking down and shaking his head.
"Damn them all...and damn us...we should have known better."
"Now is not the time to be assigning blame." The second said. "We have bigger problems to be concerned with, in any case."
The room within the Crystal castle they were locked within was cold, and dark. Very rarely was it ever visited. It wasn't something the ponies liked to talk about, or if they did, it was only in the most hushed tones. They both stared at the occupant of the room now, unwilling to voice their thoughts.
"There's something I don't get." The second said, when it became clear his companion would not be drawn to talk. "By all accounts, they referred to themselves as 'Fourth'. Don't tell me there are more of them?" The other pony was still for a moment, not averting his eyes. Eventually, he reached into the folds of the cloak across his back. The item he produced was so tiny the other pony had to squint to see it. Although he was hardly the expert on such things, it looked very much like some form of ammunition casing. The other pony tossed it across. He caught it in his hoof, raising it up to examine the etching on it more closely.
"Who are the 'First Legion'?" he asked, brow furrowing as he looked up.
"Undoubtedly bad news, if their compatriots are anything to go by." The first remarked. "They must have gotten in and out briefly, whilst we were all trying to clean up this mess."
"What were they looking for?"
"Who knows?" The first shrugged. "But the fact we didn't see them suggest it was probably in this room...and they probably found it." The sentiment was an uncomfortable one; with the sky ripping itself apart, all sorts of madness had been unleashed on the Crystal Empire. It had begun to die down, but a gunshot could be hidden just as easily as a scream.
Slowly, his gaze returned to the sole structure in the room. "You think they could have -"
"Yes." The other one cut him off.
"And the Iron Warriors...they say there's something on the other side...you think..."
"Without question."
It was another unpleasant thought. They stayed in silence, each weighing up the gravity of what they had just decided. Without a word being shared, the two crystal ponies turned, unlocking the door and closing it behind them.
The light bled away as the crack was closed, leaving the elegant mirror shrouded in darkness.
"Come on, Applebloom, we've been out here for days now..."
Scootaloo was right. Everywhere they went was white, the snowfall never seeming to stop. Ever y rock, every dead tree, looked the same to Sweetie Belle. Even so, she pretended they weren't going round in circles. That would mean giving up entirely.
"Ah know, ah know!" Applebloom snapped. Her patience had finally worn thin, and Sweetie couldn't blame her. They'd been out here for what felt like nearly a week now, constantly moving to find any kind of shelter or drink the melted snow they could find. Food had consisted of scraps of grass or other plants. All three Crusaders were chilled to the bone, and Sweetie almost wished they'd followed Zuko back despite the horrific act he'd committed. Yet, search as they'd tried, they couldn't find him. It was like following ghosts out here. She fought the metaphor away; ever since the sky had cracked and begun to bleed, she wasn't sure there weren't ghosts out here with them, watching their every move for any sign of exhaustion. It wasn't a comforting thought, and the little unicorn filly sped up to meet her friends.
"Scootaloo's right...it's hopeless..." She said, despair threatening to take over. "We're never gonna make it home...I-I want my sister..." She said, tears pricking at her eyes.
Applebloom's anger evaporated in an instant, both she and Scootaloo putting a hoof round her. "It's okay, Sweetie...ah want mah family too...ah promise, we're gonna be alraght..." The words felt hollow, but Sweetie nodded, forcing herself to keep going.
It felt like the world itself was mocking them. The filly's pulled their capes around them tighter, trying desperately to keep out the cold, but it was to little avail. Everywhere they went, they just seemed to end up in the same place. She couldn't explain how - it seemed impossible to Sweetie they hadn't reached something by now - but whatever it was the Iron Warriors had brought with them, it was clearly having its fun. Eventually, the inevitable happened. She collapsed into the snow, face first, trying hard even to breath.
"I...I can't go on..." She said. The other two dashed to help her, but a similar weariness seemed to take hold. They both crumpled as she did, all three Crusaders lying in a heap together.
"I don't...I don't get it..." Scootaloo stammered, voice sounding like it was in a daze. "The...good guys...always win..." Sweetie couldn't answer; even had she the energy, there was nothing to say.
It could have been a minute or a day before the shadow loomed over them. She didn't notice it at first, the filly reckoning it was just another hallucination heaped upon them. When it became clear it was real, she slowly opened her eyes, peering up at whatever monster had come to aid them.
The Crystal Pony guard looked down at the three, face drawn with concern. She didn't know the odds of their having accidentally evaded any patrols until now, but at that moment Sweetie couldn't have cared less. His armour was chipped and cracked, as was that of his fellows, but she had never been happier to see anypony in her short life.
"Come on." He said in a caring tone, he and some of his companions helping the girls to their hooves. "Let's get you out of the cold." They supported the Crusaders as they walked, forming an escort around them that no monster could pierce.
Sweetie wanted to cry, but the tears would just have frozen.
"Did we get a name?"
Brother Kage of the Imperial Fists 5th company kept his question short as he ran to meet his squad, boots hammering on the deck of the strike cruiser. He knew the way by heart after three centuries of warfare and service, and before long the Astartes had reached the line. Outside, the ship rumbled and whined, the sound of its shields being struck and lance battery fire being exchanged ringing alla round.
"There's no name." His sergeant told him, raising the boarding shield further in front of him and gunning his chainsword. "Looks like its been scavenged. Traitor, though, that's without a doubt."
"Which one?" Kage asked, mirroring the gesture with his own shield - the clenched fist icon of his chapter proudly emblazoned on the front - and slotting his Boltgun into the small opening carefully. To his left and right, his eight brothers did the same.
"Which ones do you think?" The sergeant snarled. Kage nodded, his own expression darkening. It was true, there was only one it could ever possibly be.
Iron Warriors. Even the name was hateful.
He didn't have time to consider the mutual loathing any deeper before the talons of the Kharybidis claw sank into the side of the ship. The Fists went rigid, shields bunched together as to deny their enemies access to the corridor and ship beyond. Slowly, a red circle began to form on the wall, the melta of the assault claw doing its work.
It was blasted open with a roar, drowning the corridor in smoke. Kage braced himself, infrared vision peering through the gloom. The ten shapes that disembarked from the claw's open hatch were firing almost immediately, taking cover where they could or else advancing with bitter determination. The Fists returned in kind moments later, bolters and specialist weapons spitting death. One of the Iron Warriors was struck in the eye-lens, head exploding from within. Another was struck full-force by a grav gun. He dropped to his knees, body going rigid as the armour around him crumpled inwards and reduced his organs to pulp.
Had Kage had time to look, he would have noticed certain things. Most curious of them was the attire of the Iron Warriors. They did not bear horns, or spikes, or eight pointed stars. No bizarre daemonic helmets sat atop their head. They looked remarkably standard - almost like they must once have done during the Great Crusade of yore. Maximus and Crusade pattern helmets stared back at the Fists. Besides Kage, one of his brothers fell backward with a cry as a bolt round struck him in the soft armour of his throat. He kept firing, but neither side was willing to budge.
Kage almost didn't notice as the second Assault claw docked. It blew its hatch moments later, 5 colossal shapes stomping out and adding their muscle to the fight. Much like their smaller brethren, the Terminators were archaically armoured, their Cataphracti plate almost filling the room. Their contribution was enough to swing the balance, the Fists unable to do anything but give ground under the co-ordinated assault. Kage wasn't sure where the bullet that struck him in the arms came from, but he was aware of his limb being blown off and the blood gushing out as he twisted from the impact. A second hit him in the knee, shattering even reinforced bone. He fell face-first, lying amid a pile of his dead brothers.
He tried to pull himself away, but the weight of a terminator's boot pressing down on his back held him in place. He could not physically turn onto his back as he heard the sound of a power weapon energising, but gritted his teeth, unwilling to give them any satisfaction.
"Wait."
The voice was commanding, bringing the room to a stop. Kage held his breath as he realised this must be their leader - or 'Warsmith', as they were known. The iron lord was quiet for a moment, seeming to think.
"We need one of them intact." He said at last, already setting off with his Terminator escort in tow. "Looks like you're it, you lucky man."
Kage could not offer any resistance as he was roughly grabbed and hauled to his knees. Two of them dragged him along roughly and without ceremony, heedless of his broken bones. The Iron Warrior on his left arm chuckled, though still didn't look at him. When he did speak, his voice was an amused growl.
"Welcome to the suck."
Kage couldn't reply, or even spit. As he was hauled away, though, he did manage to lift his head. The Fist's vision was blurred, but even so he could just about make out the Warsmith at the head of the procession. It wasn't hard - he walked with a limp, like his legs were not his own, and the axe on his shoulder - the weapon that had so recently cleaved the brother-sergeant's head from his neck - had a blade that was well-worn by age. Even so, they were not the most stand-out pieces of his uniform.
Hanging across the Iron Warrior's back was a tattered, red cape. |
Life with Luna | pre | I stepped forward, and began to speak to her in an uncharacteristically firm tone of voice, saying, "Applejack, I love you, and I always will! And however hard it's been for you to have to live with the fact that there were secrets I couldn't tell you, you should know that it's been even harder for me to keep them from you. You told me that if I ever was ready to tell you any of those things, you would be there for me. Well, I'm ready now, and I'm holding you to your promise to listen to me."
It surprised her that I would stand up to her and speak to her like that. The sobbing had stopped, and now she was giving me a dirty look. She took a deep breath, sighed, and said, "Alright, Clyde, I made that promise, and I'll keep it! So, start talking!"
With a sigh of relief at her willingness to listen to me, I said, "I can't tell you everything I want you to know about me by myself. There are some parts of my story that only Princess Celestia and Princess Luna can explain. So, I must ask you to go back with me to them, and then we will tell you everything you want to know. Will you do that for me?"
Applejack, with a scowl on her face, nodded her head in agreement.
We walked into the great ruins of the upper room. Princess Celestia then approached Applejack and said, "What we are about to tell you is something that you must not ever discuss with anyone, except us and Clyde."
Applejack had a funny look on her face.
I looked at Luna, and asked her, "May I ask you to tell your portion, too?"
Princess Luna looked at me, and said, "Yes." Then, turning to Applejack, she continued, "Dear, dear Applejack! You are so very lucky to have Clyde, you know. He is truly a friend, indeed. He has, in fact, been my best friend. Now, there is something that neither you, nor very few other ponies know, and it is this: there is another world besides Equestria. It is called "Earth." It has beings on it called "people" who walk upright on two legs. And, there are some of these "people" beings, according to what Clyde tells me, that are extremely evil, jealous, and perverse. Isn't that what you told me, Clyde?"
I looked at the Princess, and nodded in agreement.
Princess Luna continued, "Anyway, every once in a while, one of these beings finds a way to visit Equestria. In Clyde's case, he would come here in a dream. I keep track of these dreaming visitors, as they mainly come here at night, when most ponies are asleep. I noticed Clyde was coming here quite often in his dreams. I reported this to my sister, as she is the only who is powerful enough to investigate him."
Applejack listened in astonishment to all of this.
Then Princess Celestia continued the narrative. "The language we ponies speak is actually an Earth language that is called 'English.' Earth people who have come here brought this language to us. As my sister said, many of the people on
Earth, (or humans as they are called there), are extremely cruel and evil, and I try so hard to keep evil out of our world. So, I wanted to know why Clyde, a human, was able to come and visit Equestria so often when he would dream. So, I went to Earth to meet him. I was surprised to find that there was not a speck of hatred in him, and that he had a pure and loving heart. But, there was also great and profound sadness.
"When I asked Clyde why he was coming to visit our world so often, he told me that being in a place like Equestria gave him the hope he needed to keep on living. As I sensed that there was nothing but truth in his answer, I asked him if he would like to come and live with us here as a pony.
"On Earth, the humans have knowledge of other worlds, but many of these people think of this knowledge as nothing more than fantasy. When I asked Clyde if he would like to make his fantasy of living in Equestria a reality, he agreed. He added that he had always liked the idea of someday living and working at Sweet Apple Acres. So, I transformed him into what resembled an Earth pony that is large, and strong, and is used for farming, and brought him here."
Applejack popped up, and asked, "Is that how he was able to speak to Zecora?"
Princess Celestia looked at me, and I told her, "When we went to see Zecora, I noticed that all of the art that decorated her home was from a place on Earth called Africa. So, I greeted her in Swahili, an African language."
Princess Celestia continued, "It's all true, Applejack! I brought Zecora here long ago from a place in Africa called Nigeria. In fact, Zecora was the first person I ever brought to Equestria. She loved the striped ponies that are found on her world so much, which the people there call 'zebras,' that I made her look like one of them."
Applejack turned to me and asked, "What did you mean when you talked about battling a beast?"
I replied, "We tried to keep where I had come from, and how I got here, a secret. So, we referred to the evil of the world I came from as a 'beast.' We used the word as a metaphor, so we wouldn't have to tell any lies. And, it was vague enough that no one would understand its true meaning. And, I had been sworn to secrecy about the truth of how I came to be here."
Applejack got a somber look on her face and told me, "Clyde, I am sorry for pressuring you."
I sighed, and said, "Well, Applejack, now you know the truth about me."
But then she popped up, and asked, "But that still doesn't explain the secret meetings with Princess Luna?"
I then looked to Luna, who turned to Applejack, telling her, "Well, when Clyde was studying with Twilight, he noticed me flying into town in my chariot. I would land, and then go and sit out by my old statue. I was still struggling with the old feelings of jealousy that I had felt for my sister. Not only that, I felt so lonely, as I didn't know anyone who here who could understand my frustration and my anger. One night, Clyde found me sitting at the statue and crying. As I didn't want to open up to him, and tell him that I knew where he was from, I let him tell me about himself in his own way. When I heard of his pain, I knew that I had finally found someone who would truly understand me. His words of wisdom helped me.
"But, Applejack, when I saw you on the bridge with Clyde that night, I was scared, and I ran away. I was afraid that someone would find out about my weaknesses. But Clyde's heart is of pure gold, and like the true friend that he is, he came to my rescue today, and even battled my guards to get to me. He showed me the meaning of genuine friendship, and even still, he is helping me to overcome the jealousy I sometimes still feel for my sister."
With a surprised look on her face, Princess Celestia turned to her sister, and asked, "What!?!?! You were jealous of me!?!?!?!"
Princess Luna hung her head, looked down, and said, "Yes, it's true. I confessed this to Clyde only after he had sworn never to tell anyone about it, including you. When I found out that Clyde had visited you, I thought he had broken his vow of silence about my jealousy, and I became irate."
Princess Celestia shook her head, and told her sister, "No, Luna, Clyde never broke his promise to you. I love you, and there should never be any room for jealousy between us. If anything, it's me who should be jealous of you for having such a great friend as Clyde."
I added, "But you both know how much I suffered when I lost my sister, and I would never want either of you to suffer that kind of loss. So, Princess Celestia, I really believed that I would find Princess Luna here in the castle where you both spent so much time together when you were growing up. The love the two of you had for each other then must have been purely amazing."
Both of them smiled at me, and shed tears of joy, as they hugged each other.
Applejack put her hoof on my shoulder. As I turned to look at her, she said, "Clyde, I'm sorry. I never imagined anyone could ever have a burden that big. Can you forgive me for how I treated you?"
I just smiled at her, handed the diamond bracelet back to her, and said, "I have only two real friends of my own to invite to the wedding."
Having said that, I opened my bag, and handed an invitation to Princess Celestia. I then walked over to Princess Luna, handed her an invitation, and said, "It won't be a proper wedding without my best pony being there."
Tears welled up in Princess Luna's eyes, as she said, "Clyde, I wouldn't miss it for all of Equestria."
Applejack and Princess Celestia looked at Princess Luna and me in what seemed to be an almost stunned silence, as they both began to grasp that Luna and I had a friendship that was so strong that no pony could ever break it.
Princess Luna then turned to Applejack, and told her, "Take good care of my friend here. It looks like I'm going to be gone for a while, as I need to spend some time with my sister."
When Princess Luna said that, her sister began to tear up again. They both looked at each other for a moment, and then hugged each other for what seemed like the longest time.
By now, it was getting quite late, and I asked Princess Celestia if she would use her magical powers to transport Applejack and me back to the farm. The Princess smiled, and before we knew what had happened, we were back at Sweet Apple Acres.
I told Applejack, "If you would like to hear about my past, we can talk about it now. But, I have to warn you, it's sad."
She replied, "Yes, Clyde, I would like to know about it."
So, we went into the house, and sat down at the kitchen table. Applejack made me some coffee, and we started talking. I told her all about my mother, my father, and my sister. When I finished, she bawled her eyes out, and just hugged me. Then, I reminded her of our future together, and that put a smile back on her face.
Just then, Big Mac walked in, looked at me, smiled, and said, "I knew all along you were city folk. Me? I'm from Iowa."
I just smiled back, as Big Mac told me this.
Applejack's jaw hit the floor when she heard her brother's announcement.
Big Mac looked at his sister, and said, "Well, Applejack, if Princess Celestia thinks you can be trusted you with Clyde's secret, I suppose you can be trusted with mine. So, I guess it's about time you knew a few things that I've never been able to tell you about myself before now. I was adopted by our parents. After my Earth parents were both killed in a car wreck, I was placed in a foster home. My foster father was a violent man, and Princess Celestia spotted me when I was in the hospital after he had beaten me up. I was only five years old. Over and over again, I kept dreaming of this magical place, where I would go, which was Equestria. When I arrived here, I was adopted by the Apple family, and they loved me as they would love one of their own. And, they never told my secret to a single pony.
"And, in order to not risk revealing my past, I never got really close to anyone else. I kept my secret, and resolved to do so for the rest of my life, until today. Clyde, I had my suspicions about you when you first got interested in Applejack. But, if you two can get this close to each other, then maybe I can have someone special in my life, too. Did either of you know that I like Miss Cheerilee?"
Applejack and I both smiled, and simultaneously said, "Go for it!" as we all broke out in laughter.
Applejack walked over to Big Mac, hugged him, and said, "You've always been my big brother, and you always will be."
Big Mac smiled, and he looked like the weight of the world had been lifted off his shoulders.
I asked him, "By the way, what year was it when you left Iowa?
He answered, "It was 1937. When was it for you?"
Stunned, I told him, "It was 2012!"
This seemed almost more than Big Mac could grasp, as he said, "I know that I haven't been here for seventy-five years."
"Well," I said to him, "Maybe it's magic."
The three of us sat up the rest of the night, as Big Mac and I shared our stories with each other, and answered the seemingly endless questions that Applejack had for us.
As the winter passed, Applejack got very busy preparing for the wedding. I would often go visit Princess Luna, and we would talk about how our lives were working out. She and I had such a special time together.
Sometimes Applejack would come with me when I visited her. The Princess seemed so happy, that Applejack and I began to wonder if she might have fallen in love. When we asked her about it, she said she had met a very kind and loving colt in Manehatten, and that she had been seeing him on a regular basis. We were both overjoyed for her.
Princess Luna confessed that she sometimes would feel down about her job, as it was not as glamorous as her sister's. However, I reminded her that her work was vitally important, because no one could function without sleep. This always seemed to cheer her up.
It was quite a wedding! True to her word, Princess Luna was my best pony. And seeing Rainbow Dash in a frilly bridesmaid dress was just awesome. Rarity truly outdid herself with the bridal gown. Applejack looked like an angel as she came down the aisle.
We held the wedding in Canterlot, at the castle. It was a superbly magical experience for us to be there with all of our friends.
The reception was nothing less than spectacular. The Royal Canterlot orchestra provided the music for the dinner, and Pinkie Pie made sure that the local DJ, Vinyl Scratch, was there to make sure the dance was a really smashing event.
When I think back on everything that has happened, and when I look at my two little fillies playing together, I can only begin to imagine the truly magical times that lie ahead for us all here at Sweet Apple Acres.
I still visit my friend Princess Luna, and her special some pony. And, it makes me happy to know that the other ponies are not as scared of her as they once were. It seems that having a special some pony has allowed here to have more fun in her life than she may ever have known was possible.
And, then there's my brother-in-law, Big Mac. He and Miss Cheerilee have been keeping steady company for quite some time now. Applejack and I wonder what the future may have in store for those two. But, who knows?
THE END |
Otherworldly | pre | Pinkie's stand on his story? Check.
Upset about it? Check.
Applejack's stand? Now that was still unclear, but what she said still stuck with him.
He turned over and let exhaustion wash over him. |
Otherworldly | Day 4: Applejack | There was a knock on the door while Sapphire was eating breakfast. Spike had just left to bring Twilight her breakfast, and Twilight herself was still incapacitated, so he went to answer the door. Derpy Hooves was on the other side.
"Oh, hello. You're that foreign visitor right? Sapphire Spell I think?" she said.
"Very funny, Derpy. We met at Pinkie Pie's party yesterday."
"No we didn't. I had to go to Canterlot on mailmare business yesterday. Anyway, Twilight has a letter from her brother."
"But... but..." Now Sapphire was really confused. He had definitely met her yesterday. Why didn't she remember it? He took the letter and closed the door. Something was off. He brought the letter upstairs to Twilight. She took it with her magic and read it.
"Shining Armor and Cadance are in Bridaly for their honeymoon. They send me pictures of the various places they go," Twilight explained. "This is them in front of the Coltosseum." She showed Sapphire the picture. The two made such a cute couple standing in a pose typical of newlyweds. She placed the letter's components into their piles. Sapphire took a look through the pictures.
We have so many places in common. The Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the canals of Venice. Except theirs, Sapphire thought, all have really bad horse pun names... Sapphire listed off the common landmarks in his mind, knowing how Twilight would react.
"What are your plans for today?" Twilight asked.
"Applejack invited me to spend the day at her farm. What about you?"
"I have to stay off my hooves so I'm gonna spend the day reading. Fluttershy said she'd come by and check on me later, though. Do you know how to get to Sweet Apple Acres?"
"I think so. It's on the southeastern edge of town, right?"
"That's close enough. You'll see it if you head that way," Spike said.
"Well I guess I'll head out now. Bye Twilight. Feel better. Bye Spike."
Sapphire left the library and started across town. He'd learned enough about pony gait that he was able to perform a comfortable trot. As he crossed an empty street, he heard a buzzing behind him. He turned around, but there was nopony there. I must be hearing things. He continued on his way. He crossed the busy market humming to himself. He waved to Rarity who was doing some shopping. Eventually, the buildings started to thin out and Sapphire could see the barn of Sweet Apple Acres on the horizon. He entered the farm and looked around. He couldn't see Applejack anywhere, but he did see a large red stallion with an apple on his flank. He look big and bulky, just the kind that you would find on a farm, Sapphire reasoned. He walked up to him.
"Hello there. Is this Sweet Apple Acres?" Sapphire asked.
"Eeyup," was the earth pony's response.
"Is Applejack here?" Sapphire continued.
"Eeyup." Sapphire waited for the earth pony to tell him where.
"Um, where is she?" All the stallion did was point to Sapphire's left without a word. He looked in that direction.
"Um, thanks," Sapphire headed off in that direction. Does he only know one word? It didn't take too long to spot Applejack in the midst of some trees. She kicked one and all of the apples fell off into baskets around its base.
"Hi Applejack!" Sapphire called in his approach.
"Well hey there, sugarcube. Glad you could make it,"
"You invited me and I've been trying to get to know Twilight's friends so here I am. So you're harvesting right now?"
"That's right. Big Mac and Ah buck the trees ta get apples from all of 'em."
"Who's Big Mac?"
"Mah bad! Big Macintosh is mah older brother. You mighta seen 'im when you walked in. Applebloom is mah little sister, but she's in school right now. There's also Granny Smith, she's the oldest member of the Apple family. She's fixin' up lunch now, so you can join us once it's ready."
What about her parents? "Okay. That sounds good. Can I help you with your chores?"
"Ah don't see why not! Try bucking that tree over there."
Sapphire walked over to the tree Applejack pointed at. He turned his back to it and lifted his hind legs to get ready to buck it, but the sudden change in weight caused him to lose his balance and fall on his face. Applejack walked over with a chuckle.
"You seem to do that a lot don't ya?"
"Apparently. At this point, it might just be easier to walk around like this instead."
Applejack helped him up and he got in position again. This time, he was expecting the shift in his center of balance and compensated for it. He gave the tree the hardest kick he could. Only a few apples fell off.
"That's okay. Ah have years of apple bucking experience. This was yer first time. I doubt you did it much in yer world." Applejack gave the tree a quick kick and the rest of the apples fell. One hit Sapphire in the head and he shook it off.
"Oh yeah! That's something I want to ask you about! Do you believe me about where I'm from? I was a bit confused after last night."
"Ah believe ya, sugarcube. Ah'm real good at tellin' when ponies is lyin', an' I think what you told us th'other day was the honest truth. After you went to sleep that day, Twilight got the six of us together to talk about it. She and Rainbow were adamant that you were lyin'. Fluttershy, Rarity, and Ah believed you though. Pinkie was on the fence until Twilight got through with 'er."
So some of them DID believe him! He wasn't alone in a corner with Spike. He was so happy!
"Speakin' a Pinkie, Ah wanna 'pologize for what she said to ya yesterday. She just says whatever comes ta mind, and sometimes it can be hurtful without 'er realizin' it. She didn't mean to offend ya, she just didn't realize what effect it woulda had on ya." Applejack bucked another tree and more apples fell. Sapphire watched her.
"That's okay. I figured out that she doesn't have a filter myself. I know she didn't want to hurt me. Besides, the intention wasn't there. She didn't say it to offend me, she said it because she's probably the type to not keep secrets, am I right? But she legitimately cares about her friends, so I'm okay. Besides, I know now that some ponies believe me."
"That's good ta hear. Why don't we get off this heavy topic and get into some heavy farm work? Since ya can't buck trees, how about ya put the baskets inta'tha wagon."
Sapphire nodded his head and got to work. The basket was heavy and it took awhile to drag to the wagon, and it was even harder to get it up into the wagon. He eventually managed to fill the wagon with baskets.
"What next, Applejack?" he called out.
"Can ya bring the wagon to the barn and put the baskets inside? Bring the wagon back when yer done," she responded. He walked to the front of the wagon and saw the harness. He got it on himself and tried to walk. It felt like the wagon weighed a ton! He struggled and struggled and managed to take the first step. He continued this way and was able to get the wagon to start. He pulled it all the way back to the barn. He stopped and put the baskets in his wagon next to the others. While he was working, Big Macintosh showed up with his wagon. It was larger and held more and he moved it effortlessly it seemed. Sapphire was still unloading his while Big Mac had emptied his and left without saying a word.
Sapphire was only able to do two more trips before he collapsed in exhaustion. "I... don't... think... I can... do this... anymore..." he gasped out.
"That's okay. You've never done farm work before right? It was probably a lot to handle for a newcomer. Why don't ya go see if Granny could use yer help with lunch?" Applejack suggested. Sapphire let out a heaving sigh and forced his exhausted body up. He walked back to the barn and entered the kitchen.Granny Smith was sitting on a rocking chair knitting.
"AHH! It's a robber! Somepony call the cops!"
"No! Granny Smith, I'm Sapphire Spell! Applejack's friend?"
"What was 'at? Applejack doesn't 'ave any stallion friends! 'Specially no alicorn royalties!"
Sapphire rolled his eyes. "Come on. She had to have mentioned me!" Granny leaned in for a closer look. She squinted at him and rubbed her chin. He felt uncomfortable with her penetrating glare scrutinizing him like that.
"Oh, I remember now! Yer that feller she mentioned a couple a days ago. What was yer name? Oh right! Safer Shell!"
Sapphire face-hoofed. Then he sighed. "Close enough. Do you need any help with lunch?"
"Nah, it's all in the oven right now. But if you could ring that there bell and let my grandchirrins know about it, it would save my hip lotsa pain."
Sapphire walked over to the bell and rang it. He heard a "Yeehaw!" from Applejack and an "Eeyup," from Big Mac. Then he walked to the oven and took the food out of it. He set the table and when he brought the food in, Applejack, Big Mac, and Granny were at the table.
"What? But? The entrance was behind me. And you were in the rocking chair when I left the room. How are? What? Huh?" Sapphire stammered. He shrugged it off and took his place at the table.
"Now who knew that havin' an extra set of hooves fer the day would be so nice!" Granny said, ruffling Sapphire's hair. He blushed.
"Now Granny, stop it! Yer embarrassin' him!" Applejack said.
"It's okay. I'm surprised I didn't freak out while helping you. I usually have such a problem in nature."
Applejack chuckled. "That sounds just like Rarity. Ah'm pretty sure she avoids comin' here as much as possible."
The conversation continued in this manner with Big Macintosh adding a little "Eeyup," or "Nnope." So he DOES know more than one word! Sapphire looked at the pictures. He saw what must be Applejack's parents. But later pictures didn't have them. In the first ones without them, the older members of the family looked sad. Applebloom was just a baby. Sapphire realized why he had yet to meet Applejack's parents.
When all was done, Sapphire helped Granny with the dishes while Applejack and Big Mac went back to farming.
"I think I'll go help Applejack some more," Sapphire said.
"You go do that. Ah'm gonna take mah afternoon nap anyway," Granny said.
Sapphire found Applejack bucking some trees. After three more trips with the wagon, he collapsed on the ground again.
"Applejack! Ah'm back from school! Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and I are gonna do some crusadin'!" a yellow filly ran up to Applejack.
"Now, Applebloom. We have a guest. Be polite," Applejack said. Applebloom then noticed Sapphire looking at them from his vantage point on the ground.
"Oh! Yer Sapphire Spell! Applejack's told me all about you! And Ah told Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo!" She said.
A white unicorn filly and an orange pegasus ran up. "There you are, Applebloom! We lost track of you," the pegasus said.
"Guys! This is Sapphire Spell! That traveller from another world Ah told you about!" Applebloom said.
"Wow! He has a horn!" the unicorn said.
"And a pair of wings!" the pegasus added.
"And a cutiemark!" Applebloom finished.
"Wow! That's so cool! How'd you get it?" the pegasus asked.
"When I came to Equestria and became a pony. It was just there. People in my world don't get a physical sign when we've discovered our talent," Sapphire answered.
"So how do you know you've found it?" the unicorn asked.
"We get a feeling deep inside us. Like, 'this is what I want to do with my life'. And from what I understand, ponies get that feeling too," Sapphire explained.
"Now girls, don't you think you should introduce yourselves to Sapphire?" Applejack suggested.
"Ah'm Applebloom!"
"I'm Sweetie Belle!"
"And I'm Scootaloo!"
"And we're the Cutie Mark Crusaders!" they said in unison.
"We're on a mission to discover our special talents and earn our cutie marks!" Scootaloo said.
"Come on, girls! Let's get started on today's crusadin'," Applebloom said. The trio of fillies ran off into a deeper part of the farm.
"That's how my lil' sis' and her friends are. You'll get used to 'em. Sweetie Belle is also Rarity's younger sister if ya didn't know."
"They seem very energetic." Sapphire stood up. "Well, break time's over."
Sapphire brought the wagon to the barn again and was back with Applejack loading it up when the two of them heard a scream.
"Applejack! Help!" Applebloom shrieked.
"Applebloom!" Applejack yelled and ran in the direction of the shriek. Sapphire followed as close as he could. He arrived to see a bunch of.. sticks? circling a tree house. The Cutie Mark Crusaders were huddled inside, terrified.
"What are those things?" Sapphire asked.
"They're timberwolves! Lately they've been gitt'n more and more brazen when they attack the farm. We've never had a group this big!" Applejack responded. There were six timberwolves circling the tree. Applejack threw a rock at them.
"Over 'ere, ya varmints!" she called and then ran off. The timberwolves gave chase, heading straight for Sapphire.
"AHH!" he yelled and ran after Applejack.
He managed to catch up to her, but so did the timberwolves. Using her home turf knowledge she managed to knock two of them to pieces. A third one came up next to Sapphire and he knocked it into a tree, breaking it apart. The two eventually ran into the Everfree Forest.
"Ah I can't find anything else to use! And more are startin' to join!"
Sapphire turned around and saw a group of at least twenty timberwolves, including the three they had already destroyed.
"They can put themselves back together?!"
"Not if ya burn 'em, but that's not an option right now!"
The two skidded to a stop as a giant boulder blocked their path. The group of timberwolves were advancing.
"Is this really it? Is this how it ends?" Sapphire asked looking to the sky. "I just got here! I'm too young to die!"
A timberwolf roared and Applejack and Sapphire hugged each other with looks of terror on their face.
"Ah guess this is it," Applejack resigned herself. The two closed their eyes as tightly as they could. But Sapphire had a hard time keeping them closed. There was this strange light nearby. He opened his eyes and looked at Applejack.
"Applejack! You're glowing orange!" he said.
"What?" Applejack opened her eyes and checked herself. "Ah am!" She looked at Sapphire. "But so's yer ring and eyes!"
"Really?" He looked at his ring as best he could. It was definitely glowing orange. He felt a jolt run through him. He's felt the exact same thing before... The Elements of Harmony! But how? They were still stashed away in Canterlot. Then again, they were connected to these ponies and his magic was connected to the elements so it couldn't be too unbelievable.
Then there was another feeling inside him. He grinned. This one was also familiar. He reared up and when he stomped his hooves, he let loose a blast of magical, white hot flame from his horn. It incinerated the first several timberwolves and the others ran in terror. Applejack and Sapphire Spell stopped glowing.
"But that was magic! How did you do that? I thought you lost yer magic!" Applejack exclaimed in disbelief.
"I'll explain on the way back." The two of them started to leave the forest. "So I figured out early on that my magic was being held captive by the Elements of Harmony. I knew the only way to get it back was to learn to live without it and develop close relationships with you guys. I also knew magic had a dramatic flair, so there was most likely going to need to be a life or death situation as the final catalyst."
"Oh. So you KNEW your magic was going to come back, back there?!" Applejack snorted angrily.
"Of course not! That was all a hunch until a few minutes ago. I really thought we were gonna die back there!" Sapphire defended himself.
"Oh. So why are your gem and eyes still orange?" Applejack asked.
"They're WHAT?!" Sapphire shouted. He ran ahead to the barn and found a mirror and sure enough, his irises were orange and so was the gem in his ring. He checked his cutie mark. Still a blue sapphire.
Granny Smith was grateful about him saving her two granddaughters. He told her not to think anything of it. The crusaders wanted to make him an honorary member, but he turned it down. As he was leaving, Big Mac grabbed him into a silent hug and then let him go and turned to hide his tears. That had to have been the weirdest thank you of them all. He returned to the library.
"Hey, Twilight! Do I have a story for you!" he called. He entered her room and Fluttershy was there with some animals.
"What happened to your ring?" Twilight asked.
"That's part of the story I have," Sapphire stated. He retold the entire event while petting one of Fluttershy's cats.
"Wow. So you can use magic again?" Twilight asked.
"I think so." Sapphire focused on a nearby book. But when he tried to levitate it, nothing happened. He felt the same emptiness he had usually felt when using magic.
"That's not fair! I just got it back! Why is my magic gone again?" Sapphire was devastated.
"I'm sorry. But at least we know it's possible for you to get your magic back," Twilight consoled.
"That's true, I suppose." He took note of Fluttershy taking care of some animals.
"Hey Fluttershy?" Sapphire started, but Fluttershy's shriek scared him.
"I'm sorry! I was just gonna ask if I could go over to your cottage tomorrow. Your animals are very cute."
"Oh. Um. Sure. I guess..." Fluttershy mumbled. She left with a quiet goodbye.
"Is everything okay?" Sapphire asked,
"Don't mind her. You're probably exhausted from the day you've had. Why don't you go to bed."
"Okay. I guess I will."
In his bed, Sapphire thought the way Twilight was so eager to get rid of him was a little weird. Then again, so was the way Fluttershy was acting. He fell asleep with these thoughts in his mind. |
Otherworldly | Day 5: Fluttershy | Yup. Eyes and gem still orange. Sapphire checked himself out in the mirror. Maybe I should change my name to Topaz...
Twilight had magically examined his ring and found the sapphire's color hadn't changed, the sapphire itself did. Or, rather, turned into a topaz. Was it ever going to turn to back to normal? He liked his sapphire, and felt it appropriately captured his essence. He sighed and kept on his way to Fluttershy's cottage.
"Hey! Sapphire! Over here!" Lyra called from a nearby window. Sapphire approached it.
"Hi, Lyra. Do you need something?" Sapphire asked.
"I was wondering if I could ask you a few questions about humans." Lyra smiled.
"Sorry, I'm on my way to Fluttershy's right now. I promise we'll get together soon, though." Sapphire turned and left a disappointed Lyra pouting at the window.
As he neared Fluttershy's cottage on the edge of the Everfree Forest, the buildings began to thin out as they did when one neared Sweet Apple Acres. He crossed the small bridge over the creek and knocked on the front door. Fluttershy slowly opened the door with great care, almost as if she believed the door would be upset with her if she opened it too quickly.
"Oh. Hi, Sapphire. You're here." She spoke, only a few decibels above a whisper.
"Uh huh. I wanted to get to know you better, Twilight said it might be good for me."
"I suppose now's a good time. The animals are eating, so I have a bit of free time." There was an awkward silence between the two, probably the first of many, Sapphire thought.
"May I come in?" Sapphire asked to break the silence.
"Oh right! I'm sorry, I should have invited you in sooner! Yes please, come in!" Fluttershy responded, slightly ashamed. She opened the door and Sapphire slowly stepped inside. Inside, groups of animals were huddled around different bowls of food. Squirrels, ferrets, rabbits, and other small creatures were eating at their designated bowls. Well, all except one bunny, who was all on its own eating from a larger bowl with more food than the others.
"Wow, Fluttershy. I knew you took care of animals, but I didn't realize that you cared for so many." Said Sapphire, slightly taken aback by all of the organized woodland creatures eating so insouciantly.
"I take care of all the animals that live around Ponyville." Fluttershy said with a meek but proud smile. She walked up to the lone bunny. "Angel, say hi to Sapphire Spell. He's the one from the other world and he'll be spending the day with us." The bunny looked at him and glared, sizing him up. Angel hopped around Sapphire, examining him. When he was finished he hopped back to Fluttershy, crossed his arms, gave a small, indignant squeak at Sapphire and then returned to his lunch.
"Don't mind him. Angel's just a little grumpy because I interrupted his lunch," Fluttershy said.
"What are your plans for the day, Fluttershy?" Sapphire asked.
"I was just about to feed the chickens when you came along. After that, I have some shopping I need to do."
"How about I help you?"
Fluttershy shied away a bit. "Well... I would like some, but I don't want to trouble you, it's okay if you just want to stay here while I'm away."
By now, Sapphire had already figured out that this mare was not one to ask favors, so he already had a gentle-hearted reply before she was even finished. "It's fine Fluttershy, really I don't mind. It would be better if I got to know where a few stores in Ponyville are anyway, plus I can get a little balance practice taking the bags back."
This seemed to have the desired effect. Fluttershy thanked him for his offer and started dragging the bag of chicken feed across the room to the door leading to the back.
"I'll get it, Fluttershy; you go on ahead," Sapphire said.
"Oh no. I have it. You don't have to bother yourself with this."
"I insist. I wouldn't be much of a guest if I didn't help my host."
"I don't want to impose though."
"It's fine! Trust me, Fluttershy."
"Well, okay, if you really want to."
Sapphire could tell that these wouldn't be very few and far between with Fluttershy and himself.
Fluttershy let go of the bag and went and held the door open. Sapphire picked the bag up and carried it out quicker than Fluttershy would have. The two of them threw some food into the fenced-off coop, and the chickens inside clucked appreciatively. When they were finished, Sapphire noticed a little pen off to the side filled with baby animals.
"And how long have you had these little cuties?" Sapphire asked.
"Those babies were only born recently. Actually, it was two days before you got here." The pen was filled with week old kittens, bunnies, chicks, and puppies.
"They're so cute," Sapphire cooed.
"Be careful! They're still nervous around strange ponies."
Sapphire backed off. After taking another glance, he turned and picked up the bag of chicken feed. He carried the bag back inside and left it with the other bags of food for the animals, which had all finished eating and were let outside by their soft-spoken caretaker. She then put on a saddlebag and placed a small bag of bits and a shopping list into it.
"Are you ready to go?" Fluttershy asked Sapphire. He nodded quickly, "Sure."
The two left Fluttershy's cottage and headed into town. The market was in the center of town, and was filled with ponies at this time of day, all trying to do their errands. Sapphire followed Fluttershy around as she bought her items. This included various vegetables, bountiful berries, and even some small sacks of animal food. Sapphire's tongue was sufficiently tied when the pair arrived at their next stop, a stand selling cherries.
"Well, if it isn't the pegasus who loves her cherries.. For you, this bag goes for 15 bits," the clerk said.
"15 bits?!" Sapphire and Fluttershy shouted in unison.
"That's outrageous! At most that should cost 5 bits!" Sapphire said to the clerk.
"How do you know that?" Fluttershy asked.
"I've been reading all about Equestria, including economics," Sapphire replied.
"The price is 15 bits, no buts," the clerk said.
"Now you listen to me! 15 bits is extortion! If the price is supposed to be 5 bits, I'm only paying 5 bits!" Fluttershy said and placed 5 bits on the counter giving the clerk a stern look. Sapphire was shocked by this change in Fluttershy. The clerk clearly was as well. He tried to give a response, but gave up. He took the bits and gave Fluttershy the bag of cherries. Sapphire and Fluttershy walked away.
"What was that? I didn't know you had that in you!" Sapphire exclaimed.
"That pony can just be so mean sometimes. It makes me mad," Fluttershy explained. She began eyeing a nearby tent.
"Oh Sapphire, I forgot to buy a potato. Could you go back and buy me one?"
"Sure Fluttershy." Fluttershy gave him 3 bits and pointed him towards the booth selling them. He walked there looking over his shoulder until Fluttershy was inside the tent. He then ran as fast as he could, dropping the bits on the counter and grabbing the potato. He ran back to the tent and peeked through the folds.
Fluttershy was cowering away from a stallion pacing the room.
"Enough is enough, Fluttershy! I can't keep giving you this medicine for free! You're so far behind on payments, the bill would shock Princess Celestia herself!" he said to her.
"I'm sorry. I have to help the animals, but I don't have enough income to pay for this. I promise as soon as winter comes and the animals are hibernating I'll get a job to pay you back," Fluttershy responded.
Sapphire backed away from the tent. Fluttershy was having financial problems? Why hadn't she told anyone? There had to be something he could do! The stallion inside sighed. "You're lucky you're trustworthy, Fluttershy."
Sapphire heard Fluttershy leaving so he ran further back so it would look like he just got the potato. Fluttershy looked dejected when she left, but Sapphire could see the medicine in her bag.
"I have the potato, Fluttershy!" Sapphire said. At this point, a crow suddenly attacked Sapphire, going for the potato. Sapphire flailed around, trying to protect the potato. Eventually, the crow flew off and the potato was fine. Whoa, deja vu, but from what?
Fluttershy had a shy smile on her face. Sapphire walked up to her looking frazzled and put the potato in her bag. "Anything else?"
"No, that's everything. We can go back to my cottage," Fluttershy answered. On their way back, Sapphire asked a question he had been thinking about.
"So Fluttershy, why do you believe me when I say I'm a human from another world? Everyone so far has had their reason for either believing or not believing me."
"I believe you because I saw you come from the portal with my own eyes. It was really bright, but I definitely saw what looked like a human on the other side of the portal. When I told Twilight this yesterday, she told me I was seeing things. There was no way I could have seen anything in that portal. It was way too bright. But I definitely saw you! I saw your human form step through! And even if I hadn't seen you, I still would have believed you. You were so scared and clueless, like a newborn. With innocence like that, how could you lie?"
Sapphire was touched by Fluttershy's speech. When they arrived at the cottage, Sapphire put the groceries while Fluttershy checked on the animals. He didn't get very far when a loud screech interrupted him. He ran outside to see Fluttershy's yard mangled. Most of the animals were gone, including all of the baby animals.
"What happened here?" Sapphire shouted in disbelief. Angel came hopping from a bush and onto Fluttershy's head. He whispered in her ear.
"Oh no! That's terrible!" Fluttershy cried. She ran off into the Everfree Forest.
"Fluttershy! Wait!" Sapphire shouted after her. He ran into the Everfree Forest after her. He quickly lost track of her though. While he was looking around, a buzzing noise went by. He turned and looked. There was nothing there. He slowly backed away, scared of what may be out here. He heard a roar and immediately ran towards it. In a clearing, he saw Fluttershy standing before a manticore. That must be what took Fluttershy's animals! Now it's going to hurt her! He sped towards it.
"Get away from her!" Sapphire shouted.
"STOP!" Fluttershy turned and shouted. Sapphire tried to stop immediately and fell over, rolling several feet before ending up on his face. Fluttershy walked towards him.
"This manticore didn't steal the animals. He's trying to help me find them," Fluttershy explained. Sapphire picked himself up and followed Fluttershy back to the manticore. She was trembling from head to toe, though. She was trying to be brave, but she must have been terrified. The manticore sniffed at Fluttershy picking up her scent. Then he smelled the air, trying to find a similar smell. When he detected the smell, he was off running. Fluttershy and Sapphire followed him. They came to a cliff face about 15 feet off the ground overlooking a dangerous scene.
"What are those things?!" Sapphire cried in horror.
"Those are wyverns! They're dragons that can't fly and instead of breathing fire, their bite is poisonous!" Fluttershy said.
Fluttershy's animals were crowded together beneath the cliff, cowering away from the encroaching wyverns. The spines on their back and tail sharpening as their predatory instincts took over. The lone defender of the animals was a snake with a chicken's head. It went up to the closest wyvern, and when it widened its eyes, the wyvern turned to stone.
"What was that?"
"A cockatrice. Their stare petrifies anything that looks at it."
The next wyvern slashed at the cockatrice, knocking it away. It landed before the animals which were now crying, sensing the impending danger. A third wyvern pounced, heading directly for the animals.
"NO!" Fluttershy screamed and collapsed to the ground crying into her arms.
Why isn't working? Why aren't my powers coming back? This situation is life or death! If my magic doesn't activate, all of Fluttershy's animals are going to die, and then Fluttershy and I are next!
The cockatrice picked itself up and in the last second before the wyvern could catch its prey, petrified all of Fluttershy's animals. When the wyvern noticed its prey had been taken from it, it roared in rage and turned to the cocaktrice. The manticore jumped down and swiped the wyvern away. The cockatrice petrified another wyvern and the manticore clawed at another. The wyverns outnumbered them though and both were bitten and thrown away. The wyverns approached the weakening creatures which were now quickly dying from the poison.
"Fluttershy! You have to do something! They need your help! You're the only one who can do it! If you don't, the cockatrice and manticore are going to die! Then your animals will never turn back from stone and the wyverns will come after us next!" Sapphire said trying to get Fluttershy to move.
"But I..."
"Please! Fluttershy!" Fluttershy stared down the cliff face at the stone animals and dying manticore and cockatrice. She took a deep breath and flew down the cliff.
"What do you think you're doing!" she screamed at the wyverns. "How dare you attack my animals in my house! And now you're hurting my friends! You better get out of here right now!" Sapphire could feel an overwhelming force from his vantage point. Fluttershy's anger was extremely powerful. The wyverns felt it too and began to cower away.
"I want to never see you again! Am I clear? If I ever see you hurt any animals or creatures again, I will make you pay!" The wyverns were trembling now. When Fluttershy took a step and gave the Stare, that was enough to send them running. All but one wyvern left. This one was the leader and didn't even seem scared of Fluttershy. With a snarl, it pounced.
"Fluttershy, no!" Sapphire shouted and jumped off the cliff. He smashed the wyvern away from Fluttershy. The wyvern responded by sinking its fangs into Sapphire's shoulder.
"Gah!" Sapphire cried from the pain. He pushed the wyvern off of him towards one of the wyvern statues. It knocked the statue on top of it. Sapphire fell over, already feeling the effects of the wyvern poison.
"Sapphire, hold on! I'll go get medicine for the poison!" Fluttershy flew off to her cottage. Sapphire's breathing became shallow and heavy. He crawled over to the cockatrice. The heartbeat was faint.
"You have to live. You have to save Fluttershy's animals." Sapphire took the cockatrice in his arms to give it his body heat. He could hear the wyvern gnash its teeth from underneath the statue. It was definitely pinned down. Sapphire let himself fall unconscious.
Sapphire's dream was cold as ice. It was dark. Surrounded from all sides by dark.
"You can't escape me. I will find you. I will kill you. I will destroy everything you hold dear. Then I will destroy everything else," a voice dripping with evil and hatred emanated from the darkness. Sapphire knew that voice. He thought he had escaped it. He felt guilty he had escaped it. He had left it behind with no one to stop it. He felt himself fall deeper and deeper into the darkness and cold. Then he felt a yank. It pulled him out. It was warm. A light grew in the distance. The warmth enveloped him.
Sapphire shot up with a gasp and looked around. He was still in the Everfree Forest. He looked at his shoulder. It was swollen and bandaged, but the poison was definitely gone.
"You're awake," Fluttershy said from behind. He turned and saw her caring for the weakened, but alive, manticore and cockatrice. The snarls had stopped and Sapphire saw that the wyvern leader had been petrified underneath its peon. Fluttershy's animals were still petrified, though.
"The cockatrice is too weak to help my animals right now, but it had enough strength to stop that wyvern," Fluttershy explained. She looked so stoic. Sapphire stood up. His right foreleg felt shaky and weak from the wyvern bite, so he avoided putting pressure on it. He limped over to Fluttershy and gave her a hug.
"Everything's okay. We're all fine," Fluttershy said. After an hour of rest, the cockatrice was able to return Fluttershy's animals to normal. They all left the forest together, the manticore and cockatrice acting as bodyguards. When they reached Fluttershy's cottage, the manticore and cockatrice returned to the Everfree Forest. It was late now and there was no way Sapphire would be able to walk back to the library tonight. Fluttershy allowed him to stay in her cottage for the night. Still weak from the recovery, Sapphire was able to quickly fall asleep. |
Otherworldly | Day 6: Rainbow Dash | Sapphire's shoulder was sore from yesterday. Walking was still difficult so Fluttershy made him eat breakfast in bed.
"Do you think you'll make it back to Twilight's?" Fluttershy asked.
"If I take it slow. I'm pretty sure if I keep my shoulder a certain way it'll stop the pain."
"Well, if you're sure."
When Sapphire came down the stairs, he was immediately overwhelmed by Fluttershy's animals. They all wanted to show him their gratitude for protecting Fluttershy. Even Angel clung tightly to his neck.
"It was no big deal. Come on, guys. I have to go now. I can't spend the whole day here."
The animals were reluctant, but they let go of Sapphire. As he was walking to the door, there was a knock on it. Fluttershy answered the door. It was Spike.
"Sapphire! There you are! Twilight and I got worried when you didn't come home last night. Are you okay?"
"I'm fine, Spike. Fluttershy and I had a little... adventure yesterday." Sapphire stepped onto the porch with Spike, "I'll explain everything on the way back to the library. So long, Fluttershy. Take care of yourself."
"Bye, Sapphire. Thank you for saving me and my animals."
The door closed behind Sapphire and Spike, the latter Spike standing at the door with a shocked look for a moment before turning and following Sapphire.
"You saved Fluttershy and her animals?" Spike asked.
"That's the adventure we had. I also got injured while having it. Let me tell you what happened..."
As Sapphire and Spike made their way back to the library, Sapphire recounted yesterday's events in the Everfree Forest. Just as he finished, a rainbow blur could be seen approaching them at an incredible speed, despite which it managed to come to a complete stop just a few feet before them.
"There you slow pokes are! What's taking so long? I've been waiting for over two hours!" Rainbow Dash said.
"Oh, right! Sapphire, I forgot to tell you! Rainbow Dash wants to see if she can get you to fly today. I left her and Twilight waiting when I came to get you," Spike explained.
"I could've just told him myself, Spike."
"It doesn't matter who told him. Anyway, I'm going to head back to the library to watch Twilight. Why don't you two get started?" Spike continued on his way, leaving Rainbow Dash and Sapphire to get started.
"Let's head to over that nearby field, it'll give us more space to practice." Rainbow Dash pointed to the small hill nearby, covered in grass and flowers. When she noticed how slow Sapphire was walking, she finally noticed the bandage on his shoulder.
"What happened to you?" Rainbow Dash asked. Sapphire told the story once again.
"Wow. That's rough. Good thing I'm teaching you how to fly so you have an alternative to walking. Hang on a second, I'm going to go get your first lesson." Rainbow flew away into the clouds and Sapphire continued climbing the hill. Rainbow Dash returned to ground level holding a cloud.
"Our first test is to see if you can stand on this cloud. Spread your wings and try to step on this cloud."
"What will spreading my wings do?"
"When your wings are opened up, it lowers your weight and density and allows you to walk on a cloud without destroying it."
"Seriously?! Pegasi can do that?! Just change their weight and density on a whim? That has to have more practical uses." Sapphire began to become absorbed in his thoughts about the strange properties of ponies' wings and how they worked in a system.
"Snap out of it! Now step on the cloud." Rainbow instructed. He opened his wings and became concerned when he didn't feel any change in his weight. Pushing back the negative thoughts about this and bringing up hopeful ones of this plan's success, he raised one hoof and placed it on the cloud. The cloud couldn't take his weight and immediately dissipated.
"Well that was a disappointment," Rainbow Dash said. She brought down another cloud.
"Now this time, really concentrate and try to envision standing on the cloud. Maybe that'll work."
Rainbow Dash's willingness to just try out theories blankly both impressed and worried Sapphire. He opened his wings and closed his eyes. He imagined himself standing on the cloud in his mind. He was as light as a feather. He took a deep breath and took a step. He didn't open his eyes.
"Well? Did it work?" he asked.
"Umm... no," Rainbow Dash replied. Sapphire opened his eyes and saw that the cloud had once again dissipated. His wings drooped a little.
"Don't worry! This was only the first test! We still have plenty of others to go through before I give up!" Rainbow Dash said.
"The next is to see if you can flap your wings and fly a little bit."
"But Fluttershy already did that with me and it didn't work," Sapphire explained.
"That's because you used the Fluttershy method. You need the patented Rainbow Dash method!"
"What's the-!" Sapphire's sentence was cut off as Rainbow Dash grabbed ahold of him and started lifting him into the air.
"What are you doing!"
"Teaching you the way baby birds learn! Your powers tend to activate in life or death circumstances, right? So we're going to put you in one!"
"You're crazy!"
"Crazy enough to get you to fly! Better learn quick kid!" And with that, Rainbow Dash let go of Sapphire almost a hundred feet off the ground. Sapphire's legs were flailing and his wings were flapping as hard he could get them. It wasn't enough. Sapphire couldn't even slow down how fast he was falling. He closed his eyes in terror. Please! Please fly! Sapphire begged his wings. He felt no response. No feeling growing inside him that recognized the the threat he was in. He was falling. He was going to hit the ground. There was nothing that he could do.
Suddenly, Sapphire felt himself slow to a halt still in the air. He opened his eyes. Rainbow Dash had caught him only about five feet from the ground. She lowered him to the ground.
"That didn't work either?! I was sure it would!" Rainbow Dash yelled at herself and turned herself away from Sapphire to grumble about her failure. Meanwhile, Sapphire was sprawled on the ground, still gripped with fear.
"Alright! New plan! We're going to have do it slower I guess," Rainbow Dash said. Sapphire raised himself up, but a sharp pain through his shoulder made him yelp.
"Whoa! Are you okay?" Rainbow Dash quickly offered a hoof. Sapphire swatted it away.
"No! I'm not okay! Your stupid hare-brained scheme almost killed me!" Sapphire shouted. "And because of that fall, my shoulder now feels like there's a knife stabbing it!" With that, he turned and began to limp, slower than ever, down the hill away from a stunned Rainbow Dash. Towards the bottom, he tripped on a rock and fell onto his face and injured shoulder. He cried in pain.
"Here! Let me help!" Rainbow Dash said flying over. Again, Sapphire rejected and stood up on his own. He turned and glared at her, fighting back the tears of pain growing.
"Haven't you done enough harm!" he yelled at her. He turned away and kept walking.
He kept his head low and and glared ahead of him, steaming about what had occurred. When he finally made it back to the library, he slammed the door shut using his right foreleg. He immediately regretted this choice as he clutched at the new shooting pain in his shoulder and anger towards Rainbow Dash.
"Sapphire? What are you doing back so soon?" Spike asked from the top of the stairs.
"Rainbow Dash is a terrible teacher and I can't believe I ever agreed to her help. All she did was injure my shoulder even further and embarrass me about my lack of ability to fly."
Spike gave Sapphire a concerned look. "Follow me to the bathroom. We'll redress your shoulder." Sapphire followed Spike to the bathroom. With the bandage removed, the two could easily see that the day's activities had reopened the wound and blood was slowly flowing and pus was slowly gathering. Both Sapphire and Spike winced at the sight. Spike cleaned the wound, put some Neighosporin on it, and bandaged it up again. Sapphire slowly climbed the stairs to Twilight's room.
"What happened?" Twilight asked.
"Rainbow's training was a little too severe to be of any effect on Sapphire's flying abilities," Spike explained.
"That's a shame," Twilight said. She noticed Sapphire's angry face. "Do you want to talk about it?"
Sapphire looked at her and sighed.
"Her actions are way over the top! I don't even think she cares about how insulting and hurtful she can be, be it physical or emotional! She expected me to learn how to do something I've never done before in the span of a day! Nobody can do that as easily as she wants! In the six days I've been here, I've almost died three times and fallen on my face every single one! I don't need her turning one of those almost deaths into an actual one!" He finished his rant and began gasping for air. Twilight looked over his shoulder.
"Do you have something you want to say... Rainbow Dash?" Sapphire whirled his head around and saw a timid Rainbow Dash at the window.
"You! Go away! I never want to see you again!"
"Please! Let me apologize! The way I've treated you since I got here was awful. I've antagonized you, was immature about your apology at Pinkie's party, and now I tried to force something I couldn't and shouldn't have. I've been an awful pony and certainly not the kind of friend you deserve. You've been so nervous being in Equestria, and I've just made it miserable for you. I am so, so sorry, but I know nothing I say will make it right. So... please. Can you find it in your heart to even consider forgiving a jerk like me?"
Sapphire's face changed. It was now full of forgiveness and mercy, instead of the rage and hatred it used to hold. He walked up to Rainbow Dash and held up a hoof. She flinched at first expecting a different reaction. When she noticed it was an act of kindness and not anger, she took the hoof. They pulled each other into a hug.
"I'll forgive you Rainbow Dash, if you take it easy on our next flying lesson."
"Well, Rainbow Dash? I think Princess Celestia might want to hear about this," Twilight said.
Sapphire was confused. "Why would she want to know?" he asked.
"My friends and I have been given the assignment to report to the princess whenever one of us learns a lesson about friendship; and I'd say Rainbow Dash has learned a big one," Twilight explained.
"I sure have. Spike, take a letter," Rainbow Dash said. Spike took out a quill and piece of parchment. While Rainbow Dash was walking towards the center of the room, a packet of papers fell from her person.
"Dear Princess Celestia, today I learned a lesson about insensitivity.." Rainbow Dash began. Sapphire was more concerned with the papers she dropped. He picked them up. It was an application to a place called the "Wonderbolts Academy". One of the sections asked for a recommendation from another pegasus. Sapphire looked at his wings. Well, I'm a pegasus. He turned to Rainbow Dash.
"-just because you're an expert at something, doesn't mean you can force others to be just as good as you. Everyone-"
Sapphire smiled. He picked up a quill and began writing.
Dear Admissions Board,
I'd like to tell you about Rainbow Dash. She is absolutely the most...
He scratched his chin with the quill.
...incredible pegasus I've ever met. Her talents are indescribable so I'll try my best to give you an idea. Her flying abilities are like none that I've ever seen. She could outfly any pegasus I know. But I'm sure all of your applicants are that way too. So why is she special?
He looked over at Rainbow Dash. "-need to work at their pace. Not yours. They're special. You can't force them to be you, but you can't give up on them either-"
She's the most loyal pegasus. She is devoted to her friends and ensuring that they are the best they could possibly be. A pegasus like her would make a great Wonderbolt. She's a leader. She can push others to their limits to make them better. Her determination is insurmountable. Please, consider Rainbow Dash when you choose your accepted applicants.
As he finished writing, he felt a jolt surge through him. His vision went black and instead he was looking almost like through a window at events earlier today.
"Spike will be back with Sapphire soon, Rainbow Dash. Why don't you have a seat?" Twilight said. Sapphire tried to respond.
"Sure. Thanks, Twilight."
That wasn't my voice. What's going on? Why am I not in control? Twilight? Help!
"You're going to try to help Sapphire to fly again today, right?" Twilight asked.
"Yup." Sapphire's vision quickly shifted left and right, as if checking to see that no one else was around. While this was happening, he saw glimpses of a rainbow mane and cyan fur.
Am I... Inside Rainbow Dash's body? But it's supposed to be sunset, not morning.
"I'm gonna tell you something, but if you tell anyone, I'll say you're lying. I really hope Sapphire learns to fly again because I want a flying buddy."
Flying buddy? Come to think of it, none of the pegasi in Ponyville could compare to Rainbow Dash. She wants me to get my powers back so I'll go flying with her?
"Really? What about Fluttershy? And the other weather pegasi?"
"The weather pegasi don't take flying as seriously as I do. And Fluttershy... well, her wing power is 5.0 in a serious emergency. She can't fly with me. Sapphire really wants to fly again, so maybe if he gets his flight back, he'll fly with me."
If Sapphire could smile, he would. Even though you keep using the word "again" to describe my when I'll fly despite it being inaccurate... I'll go flying with you Rainbow Dash. Alright, I guess this vision can end now.
As if almost on command, the scene started to melt away. Sapphire's mind was in the darkness again for a moment until his normal vision returned. No time had passed since finishing the recommendation and the jolt of power was gone again. Sapphire looked at his reflection in the mirror. His eyes and ring were still orange. I guess that didn't quite count in terms of using magic.
He folded the application back up and turned around.
"-Your loyal subject, Rainbow Dash. Okay, Spike send it."
Spike walked over to the window, opened it, and with a belch of fire, the letter was consumed in the flames and floated off towards Canterlot as smoke.
"Hey, Rainbow Dash, you dropped this a second ago," Sapphire said, handing the application to her
"Oh, thanks. I can't lose this. It's way too important. Bye Twilight, Spike... Sapphire," Rainbow said and flew out the open window. Spike closed it behind her.
"I saw what you did, Sapphire. And I have to say that was really nice of you," Twilight said.
"Did what? I didn't do anything!" Sapphire said, acting innocent. Twilight rolled her eyes.
"Right when you finished though, you jerked your head up and looked out the window. What was that about?"
Sapphire grinned and winked. "That's my little secret!"
"That makes three now, you know. One day you're going to have to tell us you know."
Sapphire's face hardened. He looked out the window. He thought back to the nightmare he had after being bitten by the wyvern. "One day... But today is not that day."
There was an awkward silence until Spike spoke up. "I'm gonna go get dinner ready. Why don't you relax Sapphire?"
After dinner, Sapphire entered his bed, careful to not put pressure on his right shoulder, and went to sleep. |
Otherworldly | Day 7: Rarity | "Just a moment, please!" Rarity called from inside after Spike knocked on the door to Carousel Boutique. Spike was assisting Rarity with gem hunting today and Sapphire tagged along to meet Rarity. She opened the door.
"Oh! Spike! Sapphire! How are you doing? My apologies, I was working on the dress I want the gems we find today to be a part of."
"It's no problem, Rarity! Are you ready to go?" Spike asked.
"Yes, let me just lock the shop up and we'll be on our way," Rarity said. She levitated a wagon from inside her shop, closed the door, and locked it. The three of them then walked off towards the edge of town closest to Canterlot. This area appeared to be a quarry.
"You search for gems here?" Sapphire asked.
"The gems here are top quality. According to Twilight, it's because the inside of Canterlot Mountain is a gem mine and that stretches out underground," Rarity explained.
Sapphire turned behind him. Ponyville was a few miles behind them. "So Canterlot is built on top of a gem mine that stretches out almost to Ponyville?"
"Thats correct. Although, when it was built, nopony knew that the gems were there." Rarity's horn lit up.
"Oh! Spike! I'm getting something!" Rarity called. Rarity began to wander around seeming to try to close on something. Spike followed with the wagon. Eventually, she stopped.
"They're right here," Rarity said pointing a hoof at the ground. Sapphire walked up to what appeared to him as a boring patch of dirt and rock. Spike, however, began digging at this spot. He eventually unearthed a small group of gems. He placed them in the wagon.
"That's incredible! You have a gem finding spell?" Sapphire was astounded.
"That's right! In fact, it was the first spell I ever cast completely. Until this spell, all I'd been able to do is weak levitation spells that ultimately failed. One day, my horn just started glowing and dragged me all the way to a rock filled with gems, and when I laid eyes on what the spell had led me to, I got my cutie mark.. Ever since, I've been able to use this spell.."
Her horn went off again. "Spike, I've found some more!" Rarity's call snapped Spike out of his gem trance. He brought the wagon around. Sapphire followed along. This group of gems was larger than the previous one.
"So Rarity, since we're in appropriate company, I've been wondering, why do you believe me when I say I'm a human from another world?" Sapphire asked.
Rarity was tracking some more gems. "Yes. Do you remember when you first arrived? And you were asking me those questions?"
"Yes."
Spike was digging up the lode of gems. "That's why. You knew nothing. Everything was a blank slate to you. You didn't even know how to walk! I'll admit your secrets make me nervous though, but I still believe that you are foreign to this world. And so does Spikey-wikey."
Rarity gave Spike a pat on the head as he placed a jackpot of large and various gems into the wagon. The pile now reached the top of the wagon. Sapphire couldn't help but snicker at "Spikey-wikey". The three continued gem hunting until the pile of gems threatened to fall on them. When they returned to Carousel Boutique, Rarity gave Spike the largest ruby in the pile.
"Bye, Rarity! Bye, Sapphire! I have to go back to the library and check on Twilight. See you tonight, Sapphire." Spike walked off carrying his ruby in his arms. Sapphire thought he had heard a sigh come from him. Sapphire turned to see the largest sapphire hovering in front of his face.
"Thank you for assisting for me today."
"But, I didn't even do anything."
"Well, take it anyway. I know you miss your sapphire so take this one in the meantime."
"But it's the biggest one in the pile."
"So? I have plenty to keep me working for over a while."
"Well, thank you, Rarity." Sapphire took the gem in his hoof and stared at it.
"Now! My inspiration for this new dress is still strong! How about you go get us lunch and I'll close the shop while I work."
A quick idea flashed through Sapphire's mind. "Actually Rarity, I was wondering. I want to repay Twilight for letting me stay at her library and housing me isn't free so I thought I might get a job to pay her back. How about it? When you get strokes of inspiration you don't have to close the shop and you don't have to pay me much."
Rarity thought for a minute. "Alright, I'll agree to it. I can't deny that you would be a big help and I can't say no to anyone who has such generosity."
Rarity led him inside.
"This is the showroom. This is where all of the dresses are displayed. If you need a different size than what's here, that backroom has them. Those rooms over there are part of my house. No customers are allowed, okay? The second floor is my bedroom and the third floor is my work room. That's where I'll be while working on this dress. Later, I'll have time to give you proper training, but this should be good enough for now. Good luck!"
Rarity took the wagon in her magic and trotted upstairs with it leaving Sapphire to absorb all she said. He looked around the showroom getting a feel for where the dressing room was and how the outfits were organized. Soon, there was a knock on the door. There was a pink pegasus on the other side.
"Welcome to Carousel Boutique!" Sapphire said with a large smile.
"Ugh, a newbie. Fine! Whatever! Just don't screw up. I have a date tonight and I need something fancy," she said.
"No problem!" Sapphire said. Stuck up rich girl. Sapphire dug around a group of dresses looking for something good.
"What's taking so long?!" she called.
"Just a minute!" So help me... He returned with a green dress fit for a cocktail party.
"Are you kidding me? I look awful in green!"
"It's only the first one. There are plenty of others." Pink, pink... what goes with pink? He found a black dress and brought it out.
"Are you KIDDING me? That dress is CLEARLY made for earth ponies! Where am I going to put my wings?" the pegasus yelled.
"I'm sure we have a pegasus version in the back. Give me one moment." Sapphire went into the back room and found the same dress only with holes for a pegasus's wings. While leaving, he tripped on a longer dress and brought down several dresses on top of him as he fell to his face. When he returned, with one dress over his head and another on his body, she snatched the desired dress from him and marched into the dressing room. He rolled his eyes and hung up the dresses. She returned from the room with an aloof look on her face.
"I SUPPOSE this is ACCEPTABLE," she said, never losing her condescending tone. Sapphire walked behind the counter and rung the dress up.
"75 bits," he said.
"Here's 53," she said and dropped them on the counter with no concern.
"Okay. Now where are the other 22?"
"After the service I just had? You're lucky I'm paying anything at all!" she said and began to reach for the dress. Sapphire stuck his hoof between her and the dress.
"No bits, no dress," Sapphire said and picked up the dress and hung it behind the counter.
"Hey! I DID pay!" she yelled.
"No. You partially paid. You're going to have to pay the full price. No discount," Sapphire said not losing his cool.
"Give me. The dress." A glare formed on her face.
"No."
"I. Said. GIVE IT TO ME!" she screamed and smacked Sapphire. She reached and grabbed the dress from behind the counter. Sapphire recovered enough to make a grab for her. He missed her, but managed to rip open her bit bag. As she flew from the store, 30 bits fell from it. He sighed and placed all 83 bits into the register. He returned to the back room to fix the mess he had made.
Nothing else happened for the rest of the day until an earth pony mare entered.
"Welcome to Carousel Boutique! How may I help you?"
"Heee---eello there, good sir! I was wondering if I could speak with Rarity? I'm an old customer of hers and her dresses were so sensational, I just have to get my hands on another!" she said.
"Oh, I'm sorry. Rarity is busy working on a new design," Sapphire said.
"Ooh! Exciting! I hope she shows it to me! I simply looo-oove the work she does. In my line of work, it's important to look my best."
"What do you do for a living?" Sapphire asked. The mare stared at him intently. He began to feel uncomfortable. She leaned in closer and squinted her eyes a little. He began to fidget a little.
"You... don't know who I am, do you?" she asked. Sapphire shook his head. She smiled.
"Well, I'm an artist of sorts like Rarity. How'd you meet Rarity?"
"Well, when I had nowhere to go, she and her friends took me in, so I'm trying to repay the favor," Sapphire explained. The mare smiled. Rarity called from upstairs.
"Sapphire! I've done it! It took longer than I had originally planned, but it turned out so much better!" Rarity's hoofsteps could be heard descending the stairs.
"I wonder how she knew I was here," the mare said. Sapphire gave her a weird look. When she reached the bottom, Rarity gave a shocked gasp.
"Sapphire Shores! I didn't know you were here! I'm so terribly sorry for making you wait," Rarity said.
"That's alright. Your lovely new alicorn employee has been keeping me company," Sapphire Shores said.
"Oh! Speaking of. Sapphire Shores, meet Sapphire Spell. Sapphire Spell, this is Sapphire Shores, the Pony of Pop."
"Oh, so that's why you called out Sapphire before. You were referring to him, not me," Sapphire Shores said.
"Anyway, what do you need?" Rarity asked.
"Well, I have a concert coming up and I need some outfits. Yours were so popular before, I figured I'd use you again. Now, I'd only need one outfit, so you're not overwhelmed this time."
"I have the perfect dress! I just finished it!" Rarity excitedly said. She revealed a dark purple dress. It was long, long enough to cover all of Sapphire Shore's legs and then some. The bottom was adorned with a lighter purple fluff glittering with what appeared to be a shattered ruby. The rest of the shimmered in the light from crushed sapphires and amethysts. There was a wing design on that was incredible. Both of the Sapphires' eyes widened at the sight.
"It's... beautiful..." Sapphire Spell said.
"It. is. PERFECT!" Sapphire Shores exclaimed. "This dress is perfect for the worldwide debut of the song I'll be performing at the concert. I'll take it! How much?"
"200 bits," Rarity replied. Sapphire Spell almost choked .
"I'll take it!" Sapphire Shores said. She opened her bit bag and laid out 250 bits. "Keep the extra as a tip for your hard work and as a thank you to your new employee."
Sapphire Shores turned to leave but stopped and turned back. She dug around into her pockets until she pulled out three envelopes.
"I've been thinking about who to give these to. I think maybe you two will have better luck." She gave the three envelopes to Rarity.
Sapphire Shores left the store carrying the newly made dress with her.
Rarity opened one of the envelopes and gasped.
"What? What is it?" Sapphire asked.
"It's a front row ticket and a backstage pass to Sapphire Shores's Nightmare Night Concert later this month!" she cried. She opened the other two. "They're ALL front row tickets and backstage passes to Sapphire Shores's Nightmare Night Concert later this month!"
"What did you do?" Rarity asked.
"I don't know! I mean, we talked for a little while, but not much else," Sapphire said, legitimately confused by the events. Rarity split the bits 25/25 and gave Sapphire two of the envelopes.
"Give one of those envelopes to Spike. Oh! I'm so excited! The three of us are going to be spending Nightmare Night as VIPs at a Sapphire Shores concert!" Rarity said jumping up and down.
"Did anyone else stop by?" Rarity asked.
"Only one. A pink pegasus," Sapphire replied.
"Understandable, Wednesdays are the slowest. Wait, did you say pink pegasus? Did she have an attitude?" Rarity asked.
"Yeah, why?" Sapphire asked.
"I am so sorry you had to put up with her! She is the most difficult of all my customers! Did she pay?"
"After much difficulty. I got 83 bits for a dress that was 75."
"She OVERpaid?!"
"Well... I ripped her bag trying to stop her from stealing the dress and that came out."
"Wow. I have to say. You are great." Rarity dug in the cash register. "Here, this your pay."
Sapphire received 40 bits from Rarity.
"Thank you Rarity! Should I come back tomorrow?"
"Well you are my employee now. So yes."
"Bye, Rarity!" With that, Sapphire left Carousel Boutique and started walking away.
Now, where's that pharmacist Fluttershy owes money to? |
Otherworldly | Day 10: Lyra Heartstrings | "Hold still. I don't know if this will hurt," Spike said as he wrapped a claw around Sapphire's bandaged shoulder. Sapphire braced himself as Spike began to unwrap it. Soon, the bandage fell to the floor. No sign of the wyvern bite remained except for the color of the new skin. Sapphire gave his shoulder a little shake. He felt nothing. He started walking, then trotting. No pain. Sapphire's shoulder was fully healed.
Twilight looked on from her bed as the excited Sapphire trotted around her room.
"It's great that you're all better, Sapphire," Twilight said. She used her magic to pull back the sheets. "But some of us aren't so lucky."
"The doctor said just three more days and you'll be on your hooves again," Sapphire said.
"So what are your plans for today? Now that Rarity has given you a day off?" Twilight asked. Sapphire came to a stop near Twilight's bed.
"I'm gonna go see Lyra Heartstrings. She's been wanting to meet with me since Pinkie Pie's party and I figured the sooner I go, the sooner she'll stop pestering me. Besides, if she can give me any information about how to become human again or get my powers back or get back to my world, I'll take it!" Sapphire said. Twilight frowned.
"I don't want you to meet with her. She can be a... bad influence on somepony so... impressionable as you," Twilight said.
"I'm going to meet with her. At least she believes that I'm a human and not suffering from false memories!" Sapphire said.
"Because it's completely illogical! Just admit that you have a problem and we can get Equestria's finest doctors help you get your true memories back!" Twilight said.
"My only problem is a bunch of technicolor pony weirdos who think I'm a liar!" Sapphire stormed out. Twilight couldn't even respond to his outburst. He was fuming as he approached Lyra's house. He knocked on the door. Bon Bon answered the door.
"Oh, 'ello. It's nice of ya to be 'ere," Bon Bon said in the thickest and worst British accent Sapphire has ever heard. "Lyra! That human you wanted to dissect is 'ere!" she called. Sapphire smirked and rolled his eyes.
"Didn't you have a southern accent the last time I met you?" Sapphire asked,
"I 'ave an undiagnosable disease where my accent changes everyday," Bon Bon explained. Lyra descended the stairs.
"Sapphire! You're here! Perfect! Come with me to my study. I have a questionnaire for you," Lyra said. Bon Bon moved so Sapphire could enter the doorway. He followed Lyra up the stairs and into the study. Using her magic, she placed the questionnaire and a quill in front of Sapphire.
"Fill this out. These are a bunch of questions relating to humans and their culture. Just by filling this out, you'll be accelerating research on humans by about 300 years!" Lyra said gleefully.
Sapphire took a look at the packet. There was at least 50 pages to it. All of it was written responses. Sapphire gulped and got to work. He answered questions relating to human biology and the purpose of organs, questions related to human use of magic, questions about cultural differences, questions on literature. Sapphire began to see double after the first hour of this, and he was only 11 pages in! By the time he reached page 50, he was so exhausted, he fell to the floor.
"Why did I do that?" he said, moving his jaw from holding the quill. Lyra was flipping through pages with an excited look on her face.
"I can't believe it! Do you realize what you've done? It's like a treasure trove of information! We knew almost none of this! And some of what we thought we knew was wrong! This is amazing! Thank you so much Sapphire!" Lyra said reading his responses. Sapphire's stomach growled and Lyra snapped back to attention.
"Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry, I completely forgot! I made lunch for you. It's downstairs," Lyra said. Sapphire's face brightened and he headed downstairs leaving Lyra with the packet. He arrived just in time to see Bon Bon finish the last of the peanut butter and jelly sandwich Lyra had left for him. His mouth opened in horror as he felt his heart shatter. Bon Bon noticed the look on his face.
"What? Is 'ere some jelly on my face?" Bon Bon asked.
"No it's... Lyra made that sandwich for me..." Sapphire said.
"What? Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't realize," Bon Bon said. "Hold on, I have an idea." Bon Bon walked over to her bag on the counter. She reached in and pulled out a piece of candy.
"Eat this and drink some water," she said as she handed it to him. With a confused look, Sapphire ate the candy and drank some water. He instantly felt his stomach fill up as if he ate a full meal.
"How is this possible? That candy was so small," Sapphire said..
"Perfect! It works just as it should," Bon Bon replied.
"Wait, you mean you just experimented on me!" Sapphire shouted.
"Terribly sorry, I just wanted to know if my new dehydrated candy worked," Bon Bon said. Those words failed to soften Sapphire's face of stone shock.
"Oh come, now. You got your lunch and I get a new candy to sell. Nothing bad happened." Bon Bon tried to reason.
Sapphire grumbled under his breath and reluctantly saw the logic in Bon Bon's words. Lyra came down the stairs.
"Sapphire! I had something I was going to tell you later, but I'm just too excited," Lyra said. "Deep in the Shagya Desert in Saddle Arabia, the ruins of a temple were found. It's believed to have been left behind by humans. I'm leading an expedition to explore it in a few days. What do you say? Maybe it'll have some clues as to who you are or where you came from?" Lyra continued.
"Are you kidding?! That sounds great!" Sapphire shouted, unable to contain his excitement.
"Great! I'll add you to the list of archaeologists, " Lyra said. "There are some preparations that need to be done. Why don't we go to Sugar Cube Corner for some celebratory shakes?"
"I can agree to that," Bon Bon said. The three of them left the house and headed to Sugar Cube Corner. Lyra and Bon Bon went inside to order the shakes while Sapphire stayed outside and held the table. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie came by while he waited.
"Hey, Sapphire, why are you sitting outside all by yourself?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Lyra and Bon Bon are inside ordering some shakes," Sapphire explained.
"Lyra Heartstrings and Bon Bon? Why are you with them?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Because I was helping Lyra with her research and she invited me on an expedition to Saddle Arabia," Sapphire said, prepared for the negative response.
"Are you kidding?!" Rainbow Dash shouted. "You're still adamant about being human?"
"Yes, because it's true," Sapphire said
"Yeah, Dashie! If I think about it hard enough, I believe that I can talk to a bunch of ponies who can see me, but I can't see them," Pinkie added. Rainbow and Sapphire followed her gaze. She was looking at nothing. There were no ponies or buildings where she was looking.
"Hi, reader! How many hooves am I holding up?" Pinkie continued to say at nothing.
"Uh, Pinkie? What are you doing?" Sapphire asked.
"Just being Pinkie Pie," Rainbow Dash sighed. She turned back to Sapphire.
"Anyway... Sapphire you need to stop. This is crazy and you need to admit the truth," Rainbow said.
"Yeah! Even I'm not that loco in the coco!" Pinkie said. Sapphire's face of indifference began to shift.
"Are you kidding me! I came out of a portal that you have no idea how it was made, I have a full set of unbroken memories with zero holes that has no information about this world, and you say that I need to admit the truth?! You're supposed to be the Element of Loyalty; maybe it chose the wrong pony!" Sapphire spat.
Rainbow Dash began trembling as her cerulean blue began turning a bright red. With a loud scream she took off at a blazing speed, fast enough to cause a Sonic Rainboom that shook the town. Sapphire clung to the table for life as a powerful gale shook Ponyville. When things had calmed down Sapphire lifted his head to see Pinkie Pie with a serious face.
"That was mean."
Sapphire watched as Pinkie went after Rainbow Dash. Lyra and Bon Bon emerged from the store carrying three milkshakes.
"Did Rainbow Dash just do a Sonic Rainboom?" Lyra asked.
"Yeah," Sapphire responded. The three toasted their milkshakes. As Lyra began explaining the plans, Sapphire became distracted. He had a strong feeling of guilt rising up.
Hey! She's the one who doesn't believe me! Why should I feel guilty about this?
The guilt was replaced by anger towards Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Twilight Sparkle. He refocused on Lyra and her expedition. |
Otherworldly | Day 15: Broken Promises | After Sapphire's outburst at Rainbow Dash, she and Pinkie Pie refused to talk to him. Twilight wasn't pleased as well.
"Why are you antagonizing us? We're trying to help you!"
Sapphire had just left Twilight's house after another heavy atmosphere breakfast made worse by the fact that Twilight could now rejoin them at the table with her sprains healed. While he tried to be excited and happy for her when her casts came off, she was still confrontational towards him so he gave up on trying to be amicable. He was on his way to Carousel Boutique for another day of working with Rarity.
"While I agree that Twilight, Rainbow, and Pinkie shouldn't doubt you like that, darling; the way you spoke to Rainbow was completely out of line. You mustn't be so rude if you wish to make friends. I must also agree that visiting Lyra was a bad idea. She can be a bad influence. Not because she's a bad pony, but the others believe her to be enforcing wrong ideas in your head. She's a bad influence on your friendships.
He sighed to himself on continued on his way when he felt himself being pushed in another direction.
"Who?" he cried in shock. He turned to see Lyra pushing him with her forelegs.
"Lyra? What are you doing?" he asked.
"The expedition is in three days! Now is the time to buckle down and get this done!" Lyra said.
"But I'm supposed to go into work today. Plus, Rarity, Fluttershy, Applejack, and I were going to get together for lunch," Sapphire tried to argue.
"Oh it's just a lunch date. What's more important? Returning to your true form and powers or gossiping about who's dating who?" Lyra said.
"Well, we don't know if the ruins will be able to return me to my true form. Plus, I had to cancel my lunch plans with Fluttershy yesterday to help you. I lied to her saying I didn't feel well. I don't want to blow her off again," Sapphire tried to reason. Lyra stopped pushing him and moved in front him.
"Sapphire. This expedition is so important! If we can prove that humans once lived in this world, everyone will stop doubting us," Lyra said.
"I know, but... I have other things going on in my life. And... they took me in when I had no place to go. I can't just blow them off."
"Hmph! They're holding you back! You need all your concentration if this expedition is going to be successful."
"How about I meet you after work? We can do as much planning as we need then."
"Unacceptable! We need all day if we're going to get this done!"
Lyra had put her hoof down. Sapphire sighed. He went along with her to plan for the expedition. At Lyra's house, they went over the plans for transportation and the amount of supplies they would need. Around lunchtime, Sapphire was no longer paying attention. Lyra was going over the plans if there was an emergency. Sapphire was staring out the window when her noticed something.
Rarity was a buildings walking towards the restaurant they were supposed to meet for lunch. She looked furious. Sapphire brought his eyes to the floor as he felt a sickening guilt rise up.
Why did I abandon them?
After their own lunch break, the two of them were back at it. Sapphire became acquainted the profiles of all the other ponies on the expedition. He learned their names, faces, skill sets, and degrees. It wasn't until this was finished and the sun was setting that Lyra finally let him leave.
On his way to Twilight's library he heard crying. He began to go towards it when he heard voices.
"D-d-d-does he not l-l-like me?" he heard Fluttershy cry.
"Ah'm sure that's not it, sugarcube. He's just... busy gittin' used to bein' here is all," Applejack replied.
Sapphire hid himself in some bushes and slowly approached them while remaining. Fluttershy was crying under a table while Applejack and Rarity tried to comfort her.
"Oh, yes, I'm sure that's it, darling. Don't you remember? He had such a wonderful time with you only a little over a week ago," Rarity said.
"Are... are you sure?" Fluttershy asked sniffing.
"Sure, Ah'm sure! Sapphire-" Applejack received a dirty look from Rarity.
She's still angry at me. Not that I'm surprised, but I didn't think my name would invoke that response.
"Ah mean, Ah'm sure something really important came up and that's why he couldn't make lunch."
Sapphire saw Rarity mumble something under her breath. He couldn't tell what she said, but Applejack hit her and put on a fake smile. She growled at her, but when Fluttershy turned to look at her, she put on the biggest smile she could fake.
"Then why won't he have lunch with us!" Fluttershy sobbed. Rarity and Applejack sighed.
Sapphire couldn't take anymore. He moved away from them and headed towards the library.
I made Fluttershy cry and Rarity is almost as mad as Rainbow Dash was. What am I doing?
When he arrived, Twilight was upstairs. Spike was there though. He had a stern look on his face. They stared at each other for a while until Spike shook his head and walked away. Sapphire watched him leave the room. He walked into his room and collapsed onto his bed and sighed. |
Otherworldly | Day 18: Letter to Celestia | Today's the big day. Sapphire was awake before dawn and snuck out before either Twilight or Spike were up to meet Lyra at the train station. When he got there, she was asleep on one of the bags.
"Lyra? Wake up." Sapphire shook her awake.
"Wha? 27!" she shouted as she snapped awake.
"What does that mean?" Sapphire asked.
"Oh! Nothing! Good morning, Sapphire! How are you on this exciting day?"
"I'm great and I'm ready to go," he said.
"Awesome! The train should be here in about five minutes. Isn't this exciting? In five minutes we'll be off Manehattan where we'll board the ship for Saddle Arabia. Then it's just three days at sea until we get to the Shagya Desert Ruins."
"HOW DARE YOU DO THAT TO FLUTTERSHY!" a voice roared from nearby. Sapphire was tackled by a rainbow blur and he tumbled with another pony on top of him. When the tumbling finished he saw it was Rainbow Dash who had tackled him.
"Rainbow Dash! Get off of me!" Sapphire struggled against her.
"Not until you apologize for what you did to Fluttershy!" Rainbow Dash yelled at him. Rainbow Dash was then surrounded by a violet glow and lifted off of him. Sapphire picked himself up and saw Spike, Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie before him. All of them but Fluttershy, who looked at the verge of crying, wore angry faces. Sapphire cringed at the sight.
"Sapphire! Are you okay?" Lyra called as she ran over.
"I can't believe you, Sapphire! After all we did? We gave you a place to live!" Twilight said.
"We gave you friends!" Rarity added.
"We gave you support when you had no one!" Spike said.
"We gave you help in getting your powers back!" Rainbow Dash shouted.
"We welcomed you as one of our own," Fluttershy whispered.
"We threw you a party!" Pinkie Pie said.
"We gave you food!" Applejack said.
"And after all of that, you still treated us horribly," Twilight said.
"You've yelled at us!" Rainbow Dash said.
"You've abandoned us!" Rarity said.
"You've picked fights with us!" Twilight said.
"All we wanted was to help you, a stranger, and you've treated us so mean," Fluttershy said.
Sapphire was struck silent until Lyra spoke up.
"Sapphire! The train's here! All the bags are onboard. We have to leave now," she said. Sapphire turned to her.
"Oh no you don't! If you go with her, you're gonna lose the seven best things in your life right now!" Rainbow Dash said. Sapphire cringed as he looked at her.
They were right though. The only reason he had lasted this long in their world is because of them. And while it was a bit unfair that they were forcing him to give up this expedition, he had done terrible things to them. The way he antagonized Rainbow Dash and Twilight, the way he abandoned Fluttershy and Rarity, and the way he ignored Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Spike, he had to make things right.
He looked back and forth between his friends and Lyra. Lyra was busy loading the train while his friends stared him down. He sighed. "Lyra! Forget it. I'm not going on the expedition," Sapphire said. He could feel his friends faces relax as they breathed a sigh of relief.
"What?! After we put so much work into it?" Lyra turned back to him.
"I've been a terrible friend. It's time I make things right. I won't abandon them anymore," Sapphire said. The train blew its whistle announcing its departure. Lyra turned back and forth between Sapphire and the train.
"What? But? You?" Lyra became flustered. She got on the train just before it left the station. Sapphire sighed.
"I'm sorry everyone. I shouldn't have done that to you, but I promise I'll never do it again," Sapphire said. Fluttershy, Rarity, and Spike ran over and hugged him.
"We forgive you," all seven said in unison.
"I also promise I won't bring up the human thing anymore," Sapphire said.
"And Rainbow and I promise we won't bother you about it anymore," Twilight said. Sapphire smiled. "There is one more thing though. As you know, we write letters to Princess Celestia telling her about any lessons in friendship we learn. Would you mind writing one since you just learned a lesson?" Twilight asked.
Sapphire nodded his head. "Sure." Later that day, they were all gathered in Twilight's library as Sapphire prepared to write the letter.
"Dear Princess Celestia. Today, I learned something important. Recently, I thought my friends were holding me back, trying to stop me from discovering who I really was. Today I learned that isn't the case. My friends had my best interests in heart. I was just too caught up in my own ideas to realize it. I learned that I shouldn't take them for granted, and always keep their feelings in mind whenever I do something and do everything I can not to hurt or betray them. Your humble visitor, Sapphire Spell."
"How was that?" Sapphire asked when he finished reciting the letter to Spike. The ponies smiled and gave their approval. That night, they went to Sugarcube Corner to celebrate and for the first time in a long time, no one had any bad blood toward another. |
Otherworldly | Day 22: Nightmare Night | Sapphire and Spike were running the main library room in a great excitement.
"I can't believe the day's finally here!" Sapphire said.
"I know! Tonight is going to be the most amazing Nightmare Night ever!" Spike said.
"Would you two keep it down down there?" Twilight called from upstairs.
"She's just jealous that we're going to a Sapphire Shores concert and she isn't!" Spike said. Sapphire and Spike laughed at that. At that point there was a knock on the door. Spike pushed Sapphire onto the ground in a hurry.
"I'll get it," he said. When he opened the door, Rarity stood on the other side with a newly styled mane, makeup, and a dress of her own creation. "Come in... Rarity," Spike said.
Rarity walked into the library and saw Sapphire on the ground with his eyes spinning. "Come now, Sapphire, I know I look good, but there's no reason to overreact." Rarity giggled.
Sapphire got a hold of himself and stood up. "What? No! I was just..." is all he could get out before Rarity burst out in laughter.
"Come on! Let's go or we'll miss the train to Canterlot!" Spike said. Spike hopped onto Sapphire, and the three of them made their way to the train station.
"Oh! I can barely believe it!" Rarity said. "Sapphire Shores's NIghtmare Night Concert is one of the most publicized events! And we have VIP passes!" she continued.
"I've never been to a concert before," Sapphire said.
"Really?" Rarity asked.
"Yeah. Back home, me and my friends were too busy fighting evil mages and the monsters they created to have much free time. But at the same time, we were famous so people always wanted us to show them some magic," Sapphire said.
"Wow, I didn't know that about you," Spike said.
"It must have been a hard job," Rarity said.
"Yeah, but it was fun and rewarding," Sapphire said. "That is, until it showed up," he whispered.
"What was that?" Rarity asked.
"Nothing! Look our train's here. We should get on," Sapphire said. Spike and Rarity gave each other a look, but all three boarded the train.
The train ride was filled with other ponies in their Nightmare Night costumes. Sapphire, Spike, and Rarity talked amongst themselves until the train pulled into the Canterlot station. Canterlot's own Nightmare Night celebration was in full swing. Skeletons hung from windows and jack-o-lanterns lined the streets. The three of the made their way to the concert arena and then around to the VIP entrance. After showing their passes, they were ushered in.
It didn't take long for Sapphire Shores to spot them. "Rarity! There you are! And you brought your assistant and a cute little friend," she said.
"Of course! We wouldn't miss this concert for the world! We're so excited to be here," Rarity said.
"Well, help yourselves to the refreshments and introduce yourselves to anyone you like. There are quite a few celebrities here tonight. I have to get ready for the show," Sapphire Shores said. She then entered her dressing room. With that, the three began scanning the area. Every so often Rarity would gasp and point out some celebrity. Spike and Sapphire would just look at each other and shrug.
Eventually, instead of gasping and tugging at them, Rarity would just go off and introduce herself to the celebrity. "Want to check out the refreshments?" Spike asked.
"Sure," Sapphire said. The two walked over to the refreshments. They watched as all the tech ponies rushed around making everything was set up for the concert. As Sapphire was looking around, he felt a cold breeze. He looked around. It seemed that no one else felt it. He looked up at the ceiling.
Something feels... off. I don't know what though.
"Sapphire!" Rarity's voice snapped him out of it.
"Gah! Rarity! Sorry, what did you say?" Sapphire asked.
"I said it's time to go take our seats. The show's starting soon," she replied.
"Oh. Okay," Sapphire said. With one last glance at the ceiling, he followed Spike and Rarity to their seats.
The concert started and the concert hall erupted in sound and cheering. Sapphire Shores took the stage in a Nightmare Night costume and sang some of her more holiday themed songs. She then moved on to her more popular songs. After about 45 minutes, the concert took intermission and the three of them went backstage.
It was noticeably colder than it was before. "Brr. Why is it so cold?" Rarity asked. One of the technicians was fiddling with the thermostat, trying to warm up the area. The celebrities were standing closer to each other than they were last time. They were trying to maintain their dignified stance without giving away how cold they were.
After about 20 minutes, intermission ended. The three went back to the seats concerned about was happening, but unsure of what to do. Sapphire Shores took the stage again, this time in the dress Rarity had made. Rarity immediately began jumping up and down in excitement. "This dress was made a very talented friend of mine. She's an up and coming designer from Ponyville," Sapphire Shores said. Rarity fainted after that.
The first song began, but at about two minutes in, all the power in arena went out except for one spotlight on Sapphire Shores. Sapphire could feel the pit in his stomach. All of the spectators were chatting amongst themselves, wondering what had happened. Even Rarity recovered from her faint to join in the worried expressions.
"What do you suppose could be wrong?" she asked.
"I don't know," Sapphire said. Then, a loud cackle spread throughout the arena, quieting everyone. Then, out from the floor in front of Sapphire Shores, a transparent shape grew. Revealed to be the source of the cackling, it charged at Sapphire Shores, entering her body. She was struck cold and stopped moving.Then she fell over. Two ghosts came from her body.
The arena erupted into panic as the ghosts shut the last light and locked the doors. Sapphire ushered Rarity and Spike to a hiding. All that could be heard was screaming ponies and the cackling of the ghosts as they multiplied. One would enter a body and two would leave leaving the pony motionless and seemingly dead.
Before long , there were over 100 ghosts and still multiplying. This went on until Rarity, Sapphire, and Spike were the only three remaining. As the ghosts closed in on them in the pitch black concert hall, Rarity and Spike couldn't even look and Sapphire futilely stood his ground. As a ghost charged at him, he felt something.
It was the same thing that had happened back when he and Applejack were cornered by the Timberwolves! He turned to see Rarity glowing blue and his own body as well. With a grin, he turned to see that the ghosts couldn't approach them.
"Light!" he cried, and using his horn, bolstered by power from his ring, he cast a light into the darkness. All of the ghosts were sent flying and some even returned to their bodies.
"Light!" Sapphire called again as he used the spell over and over again. Spike and Rarity had recovered and were cheering him on.
"Alright! Go, Sapphire! Show those ghosts who's boss!" Spike called out. Eventually, Sapphire lit up the whole arena with the floating orbs of pure light. Some of the ponies had recovered, but were still too terrified to move.
"You can do it, Sapphire!" Rarity called out. Charging up another Light spell, Sapphire sent the remaining ghosts into their bodies. The only ghost to remain was the original one. WIth one swipe of his hoof, it faded away. Sapphire could feel the power he had gained from Rarity fading away. With the disappearance of the last ghost, the power returned to the arena and it warmed up. Rarity and Spike came running over.
"Oh, thank goodness you were here!" Rarity said. "Do you think your powers will stick around this time?" she asked.
He shook his head. "No. I can already feel them fading. But how do I look? My gem and eyes have probably changed color again," Sapphire said.
Spike examined him. "They have! They're blue again! Well, not the same blue. They're a bit lighter now," he said. Sapphire Shores picked herself up off the floor.
"Ugh. What happened?" she asked. Sapphire went on stage and took the mic.
"There was a ghost attack. They used your bodies to multiply, but Light magic scared them off and returned your life forces," he explained and gestured to the floating orbs of light. One curious pony tapped one and it burst sending off light like a camera flash.
"Thank you so much," Sapphire Shores said. "You saved my, and my fans', lives tonight," she said. With that, Sapphire Spell got off the stage and Sapphire Shores insisted on finishing the concert. Many ponies left though, still shaken up about what happened. After the concert, Rarity, Spike, and Sapphire caught a train back to Ponyville before they could be mobbed by ponies trying to learn about their hero and his two companions. It wasn't long before they arrived back in Ponyville.
"I'm exhausted. Almost dying really takes the energy out of you," Rarity said.
"No kidding," Spike said from atop Sapphire's back. Sapphire gave him a look. "What?" Spike asked.
"Now, I expect to see you at work tomorrow," Rarity said.
"Really? We almost died tonight. Can't we take one day off?" Sapphire asked.
Rarity considered it for a moment. "Good point. We'll take the day off and go to the spa. Oh! It'll be so much fun! And we can get Fluttershy to join! Maybe even Pinkie Pie!" Rarity said to herself as she had walked off before Sapphire could respond. Sapphire and Spike went home, but before going to bed, Sapphire looked in the bathroom mirror to see his new gem.
Spike's right. It's not quite a Sapphire. Maybe an Aquamarine? Yeah. So, first Topaz and now Aquamarine.
It didn't take long for Sapphire to fall asleep. |
Sweetie and the Scientist | pre | "Please make our two guests a nutritious snack. Apples and peanut butter should do the trick."
"With pleasure." Spike dashed into the kitchen, a cascade of pots and pans toppling the eager helper.
"Now then, where did I put that book?"
"What book?" asked Apple Bloom.
The librarian ignored the question, scanning the titles at eye level and mumbling to herself.
"Here ya go!" exclaimed Spike. He placed a large platter of apple slices and slabs of peanut butter on a small table. He also put a pitcher of milk next to the snack entree. "You know, just in case the peanut butter gets stuck to the roof of your mouth. Happens to me all the time. Then I can't breathe fire for hours."
The girls giggled until they heard a shriek of delight from Twilight. "I found it!"
The unicorn dropped a massive book the size of a cinder block onto the table. The impact tossed the platter and the pitcher into the air, both landing on her number one assistant's head. Globs of peanut butter caked his eyelids shut and milk dripped all over his scales. He was blind and wet.
"Oops, sorry Spike." Twilight giggled.
"That's alright, I'll just get another platter going. Can you point me to the direction of the kitchen, Twilight?"
"To your left."
The baby dragon stumbled his way into the kitchen knocking over a vase, then the table on which the vase sat. After a good laugh, the ponies peered into the book which Twilight opened to a predetermined page. The text was tiny, microscopic, like ants crawling across a yellow picnic blanket. The librarian blew on the page creating a cloud of dust that tickled the noses of her two guests making them sneeze.
"Ah, here we are. The Origins of the Universe." She pointed to the top of the page and drew her guests to it. "Take a look. You can find lots of different theories in this section. It's all about how the universe came into existence."
The two fillies read at the first paragraph:
"Currently, the prevailing cosmological theory indicates that the entire universe existed as an infinitely dense singularity which expanded in an explosive manner. This theory, popularized by the name 'Magical Boom', though collectively regarded as sufficient, has yet to accomplish the task of explaining the origin of the initial dense singularity."
They did not continue reading.
"Mah brain hurts," said Apple Bloom.
"What does this mean, Twilight?" asked Sweetie Belle.
"Well," she began. "It means that modern science believes that billions of years ago the entire universe existed in one magic ball. It was the densest object that ever existed. Then, it exploded and all the debris spread out and created the universe we know today. Of course, it took time for things to get to how they are now, but that was the starting point for life as we know it."
The fillies looked confused.
"So life started because of an explosion? Where did this happen?"
"In space."
"Space?" asked Apple Bloom.
"But where did that ball come from? How did it get into space? And how was space made?"
Twilight sighed. "That's the only thing modern science has yet to discover. Nopony knows where that ball came from. If you keep reading, you'll find all sorts of theories on the origins of the magic ball, like this." She flipped the pages and stopped at a section entitled "Origin of the Magic Ball: Theories". "According to the Dispensational Theory, each atom of the magic ball existed in an infinite span of time frames, thus rendering the discovery of its origin entirely pointless."
"And that means?" pressed Apple Bloom.
"Basically, the ball is infinite so it had no beginning or end."
"But how is that possible?" asked Sweetie Belle.
"No one really knows, girls." She walked to the window and peered out to the mountains. "I always wondered how everything got started, but anytime I read about a new theory it just confuses me. I've always believed in the wonders of science, but somehow I feel like they're missing something."
"Like what?" asked Apple Bloom.
"A creator."
"You think the ball was made by somepony?" asked Sweetie. "But who?"
"I don't know."
"The Princesses?"
"Maybe. Or maybe it was their parents, or their grandparents." She turned around and smiled at her two guests. "But in the end, what matters is that the world works on a consistent system and everything has a purpose. Whether we discover our origins in our lifetime or not, we can be sure the world will take care of itself just like it takes care of you and me."
"Howdy, Twi."
The three ponies were surprised by Applejack's sudden entrance.
"Sorry 'bout bargin' in like that, but the door was open and I decided to let myself in."
Twilight grinned. "No worries, I just wasn't expecting it. I really need to remember to shut that door."
Applejack chuckled. "Anyways, I came to take the girls home. Rarity's gonna be pickin' up Sweetie from my place pretty soon so we better get a move on."
The fillies voiced their displeasure from having to leave the wonderful discussion, but obeyed and followed Applejack out the door. Before closing the door, Twilight called out, "Thanks for stopping by girls! Hope you find the answers to your questions!"
"Good answers I hope," murmured Sweetie Belle.
"Thank you so much for watching Sweetie Belle, Applejack," said Rarity. "I hope she wasn't too much trouble."
The farm pony locked the hatch of the empty wagon and smiled. "Nah, not at all! In fact, she was a great help today."
"Good! Well, see you later then!"
The apple family waved the two unicorns goodbye as they walked off the property and onto the winding dirt path that led back to Ponyville. It was late in the evening, eight thirty to be exact, making Rarity an hour and a half late to pick up her sister. It didn't appear to bother her, for she had an exceptionally good day for her business.
"So, how was school, dear sister?"
"Fine," Sweetie mumbled.
"Sorry dear, you'll have to speak louder."
"I said it was fine."
Rarity sighed. "Sweetie Belle, honestly, you need to learn how to speak up. How can you expect anyone to understand you if they can't hear you? Don't be scared to raise your volume a little."
"I said I was fine!" she said, harshly. "And I wasn't any trouble with Applejack either."
"Okay, okay." Rarity rolled her eyes. "You don't have to get mad at me."
"I'm not mad," she grumbled.
The sisters spent the next five minutes in silence, looking in opposite directions. When they walked into the town, Rarity spoke. "So do you want to hear about my day?"
Sweetie shrugged.
"Well, when I got back home to review the orders I realized I had accidentally added pinstripe buttons to the dresses. The client wanted them all pure black and I hadn't caught my mistake! But before I could do anything about it, who should show up but the client himself! Oh, I thought I was done for. What could I say? Well, to my pleasant surprise, he loved the pin stripe buttons and doubled the order right then and there! Since I still have more pinstripe buttons left over I don't have to do much work for double the pay! Isn't that wonderful, Sweetie Belle?"
No answer.
"Sweetie Belle?"
She was gone.
"Sweetie Belle, where are you?"
She looked all around and finally spotted her kneeling in a patch of grass. She marched over to her and swiped up her hoof.
"Hey, what're you doing?" Sweetie protested.
"What is the matter with you, Sweetie? You think you can just run off at this time of night without telling me? You weren't paying any attention to me were you?"
"I was just looking at something here, Rarity. It wasn't like I was running away from your stupid story."
"That is enough! You are not leaving my side until we get home even if I have to hold your hoof for the rest of the way."
Sweetie swung her hoof back from her sister's grip. "I can walk myself, thank you."
Rarity let out a frustrated grunt and followed her little sister back home. |
Sweetie and the Scientist | Checkups | "Wake up, Sweetie Belle," demanded Rarity.
The groggy filly rolled out of bed, mane tied in frazzled knots and the corners of her mouth crusted with spit. She turned her head slowly towards the alarm clock and was surprised to see that it read eight o'clock. Class had just started.
"I'm late!" she cried. "Why didn't my alarm go off?"
"Because I turned it off," said Rarity, slipping into a light sweater. "You have a doctor's appointment at eight thirty, so you'll be getting to school a little late today."
"Why eight thirty? And why today?"
"Because that's the day and time mother and father chose before they left for their vacation. Why did they choose the day I was supposed to oversee the shipment of possibly the most important transaction of my business career?"
Sweetie shrugged.
Rarity sighed. "Hurry and brush your teeth and comb your mane. We'll pick up breakfast someplace out. I'll meet you downstairs." She turned on a hoof and marched down the stairs.
"Sheesh, touchy." Sweetie Belle went to the bathroom and brushed her teeth. She gave her mane a few shakes and smiled at the result. She made her way down the stairs, pausing a moment to look out the living room window. Opalescence pressed her cold pink nose and two shivering paws against the chilly glass, her wide eyes pleading Sweetie to alert her master right away. She found her at the front door scribbling on a notepad. "Uh, Rarity?"
"Not now Sweetie Belle, I'm writing a note to post on the front door."
"For what?"
"Well, since I will not be present for when the delivery truck arrives, I am writing them to direct their attention to the kitchen table where the package is placed. Terribly unprofessional of me I'm afraid, but what else can I do? My parents just don't care about my craft it seems"
Sweetie rolled her eyes. Rarity opened the door and tacked on the note. "Come along Sweetie Belle. We don't want to be late for your appointment."
"But..."
The bothered unicorn started down the street so Sweetie Belle dashed after her, feeling uneasy that her sister's fancy feline was left out in the cold. The two unicorns walked past the morning bustle of early grocery shoppers and store owners. A few ponies sat outside on wooden benches sipping cups of hot coffee, enjoying the crawl of its heat down their chests while basking in the sun's warm glow. They came to a stand where a burly but friendly looking stallion with a curly moustache popped out from inside. He spoke with a heavy accent, but was understandable just the same.
"¡Buenos dias, senorita Rarity! What can I serve you today?"
"Good morning Tapatio. I'll have a vegan breakfast burrito with extra hay. Easy on the salsa please."
"Of course. And for you my dear?"
"Egg and cheese, please."
"Coming right up!"
The friendly chef whipped up the two burritos and gave them to his grateful customers, fresh and hot. After they paid for the meal, they drifted their way towards the medical center through the swelling crowd of ponies. They bumped into familiar faces and wriggled through complete strangers. Sweetie Belle even stepped on an old mare's wobbly hoof. It was an accident of course, and the repentant filly apologized immediately. As the number of ponies increased to a suffocating amount, the sisters grabbed onto each other's hooves and trudged on.
"Why are there so many ponies here?" yelled Sweetie Belle, the burrito muffling her words.
"I don't know. Hold on and don't let go, okay?"
"Why would I let go?"
The crowd had grown so big, you couldn't even stare at your own front hooves if you looked straight down. Bumping into ponies became nearly essential to get through, and some of them were very bitter about it, especially with the way Rarity bulldozed her way through like...well, like a bulldozer.
"Hey, watch where your goin', missy!"
"What am I, a bumper car?"
"You gotta license to plow like that, you moron!"
Rarity took none of that. "Take it and shove it, you idiots!"
Sweetie Belle could feel the heat of the surrounding ponies all over her tiny body. Her sister up front continued the charge with no regard at a pace that became difficult for her to maintain. She could feel her grip loosening with every step they took. She looked up and became mesmerized by the hundreds of bodies that dotted all around her. They almost seemed like they were floating in and out of her consciousness. When they finally broke into open space, a large flank knocked Sweetie to the ground. Her burrito shot out of her mouth and landed on the dusty street.
"My breakfast!" she screamed.
Rarity turned around and grunted. "Sweetie, what in the world are you doing?" She bent down and helped her sister off the ground with a hoof.
"I dropped my burrito on the ground because somepony..."
"Your breakfast!"
Rarity picked up the dirty burrito and disposed of it into a nearby trash can.
"That's what I'm trying to tell you," said Sweetie. "Some stallion bumped into me, and then..."
"Why can't you be more careful, Sweetie Belle? Here, you can have some of mine."
Rarity held out her burrito, but Sweetie rejected the offering with a pout. "I hate the vegan burrito."
"Then you should have been more careful and not monkey around with your food."
"I wasn't monkeying around, Rarity! Somepony bumped me and made me drop it."
"I don't know if you've noticed Sweetie Belle, but almost half the town is out this morning and we bumped almost all of them! You needed to hold onto it harder!"
"How can I if everyone's like three times my size?"
"I don't have time to argue about this. We need to get to the doctor's office now or we will be late and mother and father will not be happy about you missing your appointment. So, be a good little filly and follow me!"
"But I'm hungry."
"That is not my problem!"
The words came out so suddenly, she hadn't a second to think them through. But it was too late to take them back now. Hurt and anger already took over her little sister's face.
"Sweetie, I..."
"Shut up," she whispered.
"Fifty bit copay?"
Rarity reached into her saddle bag and rummaged through its contents but was unable to find the amount of money that was due. "Um, excuse me but is there any way the doctor could take a rain check?"
The disgruntled nurse behind the window pointed to a sign tacked to a cheaply organized bulletin which read Copay due before any visit.
"Yes, I know that. But you see, I was not aware of such rule since this is my first time bringing Sweetie Belle and..."
"Look missy, either you pay the copay or reschedule. And make it quick, you gotta long line behind you."
The fashionable pony turned her head and smiled weakly at the long line of sloppily dressed patients waiting to sign in. "Just a moment, please." She swallowed hard and walked gently over to Sweetie who was reading an issue of "Power Ponies."
"Um, Sweetie, may I have a word with you?"
She looked up at her sister and raised an eyebrow. "Why are you so scared?"
Rarity laughed nervously and said through her teeth, "Why didn't you tell me that mother and father have to pay copay before you can see the doctor?"
"Don't you pay copay?"
She laughed again. "No, of course not. I mean, I have wonderful insurance and, well, it covers everything. Anyway, since I don't have any bits to pay I'm afraid we'll have to reschedule on a day mother can take you."
"Uh, excuse me, miss pretty pony?"
Rarity turned around. The nurse behind the window waved her over.
"Yes?"
"It appears the doctor will allow the patient to have her checkup free of charge. But don't expect this to happen every time, you hear me sweet cheeks?"
Rarity cringed. "Yes, of course. Thank you." She walked over to Sweetie Belle to share the good news.
"Really? Wow, that's nice."
"Yes. Be sure to thank him for being so generous, understand?"
"Duh, I'm not stupid," she said, her voice trailing into the hall.
The little filly knew exactly where to go: Down the hall, make a left, second door to the right. She sat up on the hard hospital bed and waited for the nurse to come in to weigh her body and measure her height. Then Dr. Brown would walk in, marvel at how much she's grown since the last visit, and go through the routine. Ears, chest, back, tongue, then knees. She was never afraid of doctor's checkups and found it silly to believe her other classmates' horror stories of checkups gone wrong. Sweetie never had a single traumatic experience like her classmates. They always ended with a smile and a lollipop. The door knob jiggled and the door swung open, revealing not a nurse with a clipboard but a doctor with an orange mane.
"Doctor!" she cried.
"Well of course, my dear scientist. Who were you expecting, a police officer?" The doctor chuckled to himself while he made his way to the sink. He donned on a pair of gloves while his confused patient looked on.
"Where's Dr. Brown?"
"On vacation. Therefore, all of the doctors here at the medical center decided to divvy up her patients equally. What a coincidence, correct?" He grabbed at one of his tools and took his seat in front of his patient. "Left ear, please."
Sweetie obeyed. "But shouldn't you be at school teaching?"
The doctor peered carefully into her ear and pulled back. "Good. As to your question, while I am currently the substitute teacher, I am still required to attend to my existing patients at the medical center. Therefore, I will teach on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday while seeing my normal patients and Dr. Brown's on the other days." He took the protective cap off and tossed it in the trash, replacing it with a new one. "Right ear, my dear."
She turned her head. "When did you tell everyone that there wasn't gonna be any school today?"
The doctor rolled over to his tools and replaced the ophthalmoscope. "Now there's an unnecessary question."
Sweetie was taken aback. "What do you mean?"
"If you didn't know about today's cancellation, what does that say about everyone else?"
"I guess they didn't know either."
"Precisely." The doctor rolled back to his patient and positioned his stethoscope over his ears. "You know well that I made no such announcement after school, so when could anyone could have figured out?"
"Today?"
"Well done."
Sweetie scratched her head. "But how did they find out if you were here the whole time?"
The doctor adjusted the drum of his stethoscope. "I simply left a hoof-written note on the door."
"How come you didn't just tell everyone yesterday?"
"Now there's a good question requiring a complex answer. You see my dear scientist, children retain a small percentage of what they hear. In fact, the second they hear the bell ring it's as if the sound pushes out the announcement through one ear because they're so eager to get home. A written notice holds a much higher retention rate than mere auditory instruction. However, understanding the wasteful nature of ponies I elected to nail a single page of the announcement on the door this morning, which I believe will prove to be a much more effective means of communication than any other."
"But wouldn't more papers with the announcement mean more ponies will see it?"
"That is only considering one sense my dear: sight. However, when the pony has to roll out of bed, taste the sandy bitterness of their toothpaste, smell breakfast fumes wafting throughout the home, hear their own clops across the cobblestone streets, feel the chilling cold of the blistery autumn day, and finally see the note hanging on the door, the message becomes much more powerful and meaningful as it engages all the senses." The doctor tapped the drum and pointed it to his patient. "Now then my dear, let's check your heart."
Sweetie Belle allowed the doctor to press the cold drum against her chest. She kept very still as she always did for Dr. Brown. She scanned the entire room, her eyes fervently jumping from one end to the other. Nothing out of the ordinary today; the magazines lined up against the wall as always, boxes of tissue paper and gloves sat side by side on the counter. Everything was as it should be, except for the doctor treating her of course.
"Good. Now lean forward a little so I can check your breathing."
She obeyed and leaned forward. The cold stethoscope jumped from one spot on her back to another, and she couldn't help but giggle at the tickling sensation. The doctor pulled back and hung his tool around his neck. His expression changed to a concern that shocked Sweetie into an anxious concern herself.
"I-Is everything alright?" she asked.
The doctor's face relaxed into a smile. "Absolutely my dear. Your heart is healthy and your breathing is normal. The telltale signs of a healthy child are all there. However, I couldn't help but notice that you heart rate accelerated during the time I checked it."
"Is that normal?"
"Oh it's perfectly normal." He grabbed a tongue depressor from a drawer. "If you're nervous."
Sweetie swallowed.
"Tell me, why are you nervous today?"
"N-Nervous, me? I'm never nervous at the doctor's, honest." She looked towards the ground at her hooves. "Well, maybe I am a little nervous today."
"But why?"
Sweetie began. "I'm usually not scared of checkups. Dr. Brown is really nice and she answers any questions my mom has. Then at the end, she smiles and gives me a lollipop."
"But your mother isn't here to accompany you."
"Yeah. Also, I heard some of my classmates say that the doctor can be mean and that they gave them these big shots that made blood spill everywhere."
The doctor rubbed his chin inquisitively and hummed to himself. "Sounds like you miss your mother."
"And father," she said. "They went on vacation and I have to stay with my sister."
"And I take it you don't get along all the time."
"How did you know?"
"Nuances my dear," he said, chuckling. He brought the tongue depressor up to Sweetie's mouth. "Open up, please."
Sweetie opened her mouth as wide as she could. The doctor pushed against her tongue and flashed a small light down her throat. After a few seconds, the doctor moved away and tossed the depressor into the waste basket. Sweetie relaxed her jaw and waited patiently as the doctor made notes onto his clipboard.
"Tell me something my dear. If I were to tell you that the moon is raised by being catapulted into the sky by a giant slingshot, would you believe me?"
"That's just silly. I know how the moon goes into the sky. Princess Luna uses her magic to get it up there just like her sister Princess Celestia raises the sun."
"And how do you know that to be fact?"
"Because I've seen it before," she said with excitement. "It's great. The Princess flies to the sky and raises her hooves over her head. Then, the moon majestically floats to the top of the sky lighting everything below like a huge flashlight. Then she dots the sky with the stars and the night sky is bright and pretty for another night."
The doctor surprised the eloquent patient with a rubber hammer strike to the knee. "Good, good. So your experience has revealed to you the truth behind the raising of the moon. In other words, you have verifiable evidence."
"Right."
The doctor checked the other three knees and scribbled more notes. "So tell me, what conclusions can you give me based on the empirical evidence you've gathered on your visits to the doctor?"
"Well, I know that Dr. Brown really is nice, not mean like everyone else says. And even when she gives me shots they don't hurt too bad, and blood certainly doesn't spill everywhere. Even today's visit went well, right?"
The doctor chuckled. "I'd say so."
"So then why does every one of my classmates think the doctor is scary?"
The doctor swiveled around in his chair and hunched mysteriously over the counter. "Do you remember rule number four for optimal living?"
"Yeah: Not everything is what it seems, right?"
"Precisely." He turned around and held out a tongue depressor with a drip of blood to Sweetie. "What do you see here?"
The filly's heart rate rose again, sweat began forming on her forehead. "It's m-my blood?"
"Or is it?" The physician brought up his free hoof and showed Sweetie a small tear on his skin with crusted blood all around it.
She breathed a sigh of relief.
"Cut myself trying to adjust the drum on my stethoscope. You thought it was your own, didn't you?"
Sweetie laughed. "Yeah, definitely. But I guess not everything is what it seems, right?"
The doctor smiled and opened the door. "So what do you think of your friends' tales of the horror that is the medical center now?"
The little filly jumped off the bed. "I think I'll stick to what I know to be true and not believe everything they tell me. They're just a bunch of fraidy cats!" She walked past the doorway when she stopped. She turned and was relieved to see the doctor was still standing in the room. "Um, doctor?"
"Yes, what is it my dear?"
"Well, I know we're done and all, but I had a big question for you. It's not about my health or anything. It's just something I've been thinking about."
"Go on."
She breathed in deep. "How do you think life started?"
The doctor rubbed his chin. "That is a big question. I'm afraid I don't really have the time to relinquish all of my beliefs on the subject right now."
"Oh, okay." She turned to leave to the waiting room when she felt his hoof on her shoulder.
"Perhaps you'd like to discuss this over lunch. I have a lunch break in about an hour. Why don't you and your sister meet me out front and I can treat the two of you to a meal?"
Her eyes lit up. "Yeah! That sounds totally cool. I'll let Rarity know and we'll meet you out front."
"Perfect! Until then, scientist." |
Sweetie and the Scientist | A Lunch Date with the Doctor and his Advisor | Sweetie Belle burst through the waiting room door and skidded to a halt. "Hey Rarity guess what? The doctor invited us to lunch today!" The waiting room was completely empty except for a few plastic chairs and half-open magazines sitting on end tables.
"Where did she go?"
"Are you Sweetie Belle?" asked the nurse behind the counter.
She walked slowly to the window.
The nurse handed her a folded piece of paper. "Your sister left you this note before she left."
Sweetie took the note and opened it. She read:
Dearest sister,
Something went wrong with the order this morning. I'm arranging for Fluttershy to pick you up after your appointment. Don't leave the office until she gets there. Kisses.
Sweetie closed the note and took a seat.
"You're gonna stay here?" asked the nurse.
"Until someone picks me up," she answered without looking up.
The nurse shut the window and disappeared. She reappeared through the waiting room door and walked over to the exit. "Well, I'm going out to lunch so you're gonna be here all by yourself, okay?"
"Okay," she whispered.
The nurse yanked the door open and walked out, letting the door slam shut on its own. Sweetie Belle sighed and picked up a random magazine from the end table next to her. She began flipping through its pages paying no attention to the small dark text that whizzed by her eyes. She stopped at a picture of an old stallion dressed like a cowboy from a spaghetti western, a shiny sheriff's badge beaming on his proud chest. His grin was wide and bright and he winked a friendly eye at Sweetie. He was holding up a bottle of medicine and underneath was written in big bold text was: Argaiv. Stick up for fun!
"That's so stupid," she said. "What does that even mean?"
She continued flipping until she reached the end of the magazine. She picked up another and did the same. When she was through with all the magazines on the table she looked up at the wall clock and gazed on the red second hand circling steadily over the numerals.
One minute passed.
Two minutes passed.
Three.
Ten.
Twelve.
Seventeen and a half.
Nineteen and fifty nine seconds.
The second hand stopped on the fifty ninth tick mark and jerked back and forth. Sweetie got up and walked over to the clock. She stood on the chair underneath and held up her hooves and retrieved the malfunctioning wall clock. She looked around the back and found the battery compartment.
"Darn," she said. "It's closed with a screw."
She looked around for an abandoned screwdriver but her search was short. She decided the next best thing was to take matters to a more physical level. After repeated blows to the back, the second hand stopped moving altogether.
"Great, I broke it."
"Actually my dear, it was failing before you even touched it."
The doctor took the clock from Sweetie's hooves and opened the back with a small screwdriver. He replaced the battery then replaced the clock on the wall.
"Does it always do that?" she asked.
"Only when the battery is low. This is why I much prefer a clock that runs on gears and a pendulum rather than limited electricity."
"Like a grandfather clock?"
"Yes, my dear scientist." He scanned the empty waiting room. "I assume your sister had other matters to attend to."
"Yeah. Something went wrong with her order this morning or something. She will not be attending our lunch date this afternoon."
The doctor chuckled. "I see. Well then, shall we be on our way milady?"
"I kinda can't go either."
"Why not?"
Sweetie Belle sighed. "Rarity sent someone to come get me so she can take me home."
"Who?"
Before she could answer, Fluttershy opened the door and poked her head inside. She flashed a smile at the two. "Hello. May I come in?"
"Of course Miss Fluttershy! You are always welcome here even on days when you needn't be."
"Wait a sec. You know each other?"
"Absolutely! Fluttershy comes in every weekend to serve as advisor to my practice."
"She gives you advice? On what?"
"Why animal care of course! You see, I had a baby dragon as a patient not too long ago and I hadn't the slightest idea how to help him. It made me realize that our fair town of Ponyville is home to more than just ponies. I decided to open my practice to all creatures and Fluttershy helps me with her incredible knowledge on different species of animal."
Fluttershy walked up to the two. "I hope I'm not disturbing anything serious doctor."
"Nonsense! Why I was just telling my dear scientist what a wonderful resource you are when it comes to animal medicine. Truly a bottomless well of refreshing knowledge!"
Fluttershy blushed. "Oh doctor, you're too kind."
"Would you care to join us for lunch today? We were just going to step out."
"Gee, that sounds wonderful. Unfortunately, I need to take Sweetie Belle to the Carousel Boutique where her sister lives."
The doctor thought for a moment. "The Carousel Boutique you say?"
"That's where my sister works," added Sweetie Belle. "It's the place with all the dresses and fashion stuff."
The doctor broke from his pensive pose with a thunderous clap. "Perfect! The Crisp Grove is right across the street from there. After a brief pleasant lunch, the two of you should meet with Rarity in no time at all."
Sweetie jumped. "That's great! Whaddya say Fluttershy? Can we go?"
Fluttershy shrugged. "I guess it'll be okay. We won't take long, will we doctor?"
"Perish the thought my awesome advisor!" He picked out his coat from a closet near the front door. "Let us seize the day and seize the salads that await us! My stomach protests!"
Laughing at his passionate plea, the two ponies followed to doctor out of the medical center and into the calm bustle of the lunch hour.
"A week!? You said you could deliver it by tomorrow, not by next week!"
The cross eyed mail mare scratched the back of her head as she scanned the details of the order on her clipboard. "I'm really sorry Miss Rarity, but according to this we were supposed to pick up one large order of dresses. You have a lot more than one large order on your kitchen table. It's gonna take a lot longer to take everything to Manehatten."
"I don't understand why it would take you longer."
The mail mare directed her upset customer's attention to the open sky. "If I had known you had so many boxes of dresses, I would've brought my mail wagon with me."
"Then how on earth did you expect to take my order without your mail wagon?"
"Well, I was gonna carry it myself."
"Alone!?" Rarity sighed. "Can't you get a wagon out here to ship the order right now?"
The mail mare flipped through her papers. "I guess I could go back to the station and get one over here, but it'll cost you extra."
"But why!?"
"Well, it's like I said. You have a lot of boxes. You'll have to pay extra shipping costs."
"But I specifically said it was a large order! Why should I be penalized when it was clearly your fault for misunderstanding?"
"I can't tell you exactly why there was a mistake in the order or even if there was one. All I know is that for one wagon load of boxes it'll be twice the shipping cost."
"This is most unfair, but alright." Rarity reached into her saddlebag and pulled out her wallet. "How much?"
"A hundred bits please."
"One hundred bits!?" Rarity pulled out the money and thrust them towards the mail mare's chest. "Fine, take it. Just get a wagon over here quickly. Those dresses need to get to Manehatten by tomorrow."
"Yes ma'am! Derpy is on her way!" And with that, the cheery mail mare left Carousel Boutique and took off into the noon sky towards the postal office.
"I do hope she gets here soon," Rarity said to herself. "I can't allow some stupid mistake on her part tarnish my fashionable reputation. Imagine what my client would've said if his order wouldn't have arrived for another week! Oh, I need a cup of hot tea!"
Rarity went into the kitchen and opened a drawer where she kept a box of her favorite tea. It was empty. She looked into every other drawer to see if she had misplaced the box, but her search ended up empty hoofed. She thought maybe Sweetie knew where it was.
"Sweetie Belle," she called out. "Do you know where my box of Earl Hay tea is?" When no one answered her call, she slapped a hoof of remembrance on her powdered face. "Of course, she's still at the doctor's." She looked at her wristwatch and read the time. Twelve thirty. "It's been over an hour already. Where is Fluttershy with my sister?" She looked over at the empty box of tea and tossed it in the trash. "Maybe I can make a quick trip to The Crisp Grove to purchase another box. By the time I'm back, hopefully the wagon will be here and Sweetie too."
"Lunch is served," announced the waiter.
Fluttershy and the doctor picked up their forks and dove right into their salads. They shared a mutual smile as the garden fresh meal slid down their grateful throats. They reached for their napkins to wipe their faces and continued to enjoy their noonday meal. Sweetie Belle inspected the food in her plate carefully, trying to identify what every piece of vegetable was.
"Oh most wonderful of tastes! I cannot resist such a well-crafted entree of greens and croutons. Do you share the same sentiment, my dearest Fluttershy?"
She swallowed her bite before answering. "Oh yes doctor. I especially enjoy the fact that everything is not only locally grown but grown organically."
The doctor raised his water glass and slugged down a hearty amount of refreshing drink. "Ah yes, tis a comforting fact to know that that which enters the body is also good for the body."
"I'll be just as happy if I can figure out what this stuff is," said Sweetie. She continued to poke around with her fork before letting it drop with a clank against the side of her plate. "I don't think I ordered the right thing."
"Well, my dear scientist," he began, picking up her plate and examining it closely. "It appears that you ordered a most exotic assortment of fruits and vegetables. Edamame, eggplant, papaya, shredded coconut, and almonds all drizzled with crumbly feta cheese and doused with a splash of Thousand Island dressing."
"Ooh, that sounds crazy," added Fluttershy. "And yummy."
The unsatisfied patron sighed. "That's what I get for ordering the 'Surprise Salad'."
The doctor put Sweetie's plate back and continued to eat.
"So doctor, how are you doing with your animal patients?" asked Fluttershy.
"All is well, Fluttershy Though I must present quite the conundrum to you." He put his fork down and looked right at his attentive advisor. "The other day one of my patients brought in with her a pet alligator, a small cute fellow with large purple eyes. What was his name again?"
"It kind of sounds like a pet alligator a close friend of mine keeps."
"Could it be the same one, my dearest advisor?"
"I don't know."
"What's the name of the friend in question?"
"Pinkie Pie."
"Yes, Pinkie Pie..."
"She has a pet alligator named Gummy," Sweetie chimed in.
The doctor gave the table a spirited slap. "That's the one! Anyways, I went through with the checkup and everything came out perfectly normal. However, I couldn't figure out why the specimen had absolutely no teeth in his mouth to speak of. I know he's very young but they should have grown in by now, am I right?"
"Actually," Fluttershy began. "Hatchlings are born with teeth already. Pinkie Pie found Gummy on the side of the road trying to bite off a piece of loose scrap metal when he broke off all his teeth."
"How dreadful!" the doctor exclaimed.
"How does he eat, Fluttershy?" asked Sweetie, adding herself to the conversation.
"Since alligators can only use their jaws to move their mouths up and down and not side to side, they can't chew. They have to swallow their food whole."
"Therefore, as is the case with Gummy, it's almost like he doesn't need his teeth for consumption," added the doctor.
"If they can just swallow their food, then why have teeth in the first place?" asked Sweetie Belle.
"Well, I would imagine that when he grows up and requires larger portions to satisfy his hunger he would utilize his sharp teeth to kill his prey on impact. Right, Fluttershy?"
The animal expert nodded. "Not only that, but sometimes alligators will need to use their teeth to rip larger animals into smaller, easier to swallow pieces. Lucky for Gummy he has a caring owner who will feed him ready to swallow food that won't require any biting or ripping."
"Wow, that's neat!" exclaimed Sweetie Belle. The ponies turned their attention back to their meals when the youngest of the three came up with another question. "What would've happened to him if he were never discovered by Pinkie Pie?"
The doctor picked up his napkin and wiped his muzzle clean. "Two things: Either Gummy would have adapted to his surroundings or he would have died."
"Adapted? What is that?"
The doctor gave the floor to his animal advisor.
"Well Sweetie, adaptation happens when an animal is faced with a situation which forces it to change its behavior. It's kinda like how birds fly south for the winter because it gets too cold for them in their environment. They adapt to the cold by moving away from it to a warmer climate. Does that make sense?"
The filly scratched her head. "I think so."
Her response prompted the quick thinking doctor to grab the salt bottle in front of Fluttershy. Once he removed the cap, he tipped it over Sweetie's salad and poured the entire bottle over her untouched meal, leaving no fruit or vegetable unsalted.
"Hey!" she protested. "What was that for?"
"Oh I'm sorry," he said in a mischievous tone. "But I thought you didn't want your Surprise Salad."
"Not before, but I was starting to get hungry so I thought I would give it a try."
"Won't a little salt make it a little more bearable for you?"
"A little? This is a ton!"
"So you won't eat it?"
"Not like this. I'll get a major tummy ache if I ate all this salt."
The doctor raised the bottle and calculated the volume mentally. "Actually, you would die."
"Well that's even worse."
The light bulb clicked on in Fluttershy's mind as a smile formed on her once shocked face. "So what will do if you're gonna eat it, Sweetie?"
The bothered filly picked out a piece of papaya and began brushing the excess salt onto her napkin. "Isn't it obvious? I have to brush off all this salt." Once she got off all the salt she could, she placed the fruit in her mouth and began to chew slowly. The embedded saline crystals she could not remove attacked her palate with its salty flavor and her bitter expression brought soft chuckles to her older friends.
"So, my dear scientist, what did you have to do in order to eat your meal without dying?"
Sweetie swallowed her food hard. "I told you. I had to brush off all the salt before I ate it." She grabbed her glass of water and drank down several gulps to wash out the saltiness from her mouth. When it finally hit her, she rammed down the glass hard on the table, a small amount falling out the side and wetting the tablecloth. "Wait a minute! I get it now! I had to change my behavior in order to eat my food! I had to adapt!" She looked at each of her friends who returned her triumphant grin with a proud smile.
"Excellent work, my dear scientist," said the doctor.
Fluttershy offered her a light clap.
"Hey, do ponies have to adapt like alligators do? I mean, besides having their salads covered completely by salt."
"Good question," said the doctor. "You see, our ancestors were much larger and much stronger than we. They had to run fast and free to travel across long distances to find food and run away from fast predators like manticores and hydras. As we've become more civilized, however, we've lost our abilities to run from danger in favor of developing our brains for critical thinking to thrive in our highly industrialized environment."
"So, we're not as fast anymore because we don't have to run away as much?"
"Exactly." The doctor held up a hoof and pinched a small flab of sagging skin. "In fact, you could say we've traded our leanness for pudginess in the process."
"We're like marshmallows," added Fluttershy.
The three ponies laughed at Fluttershy's joke when they heard a clearing of the throat.
"Who's a marshmallow?" asked Rarity.
Sweetie Belle slowly turned to face her sister and flashed a nervous grin. "Hey Rarity. What's up?"
Rarity cut to the chase. "Why aren't you at home?" She turned to Fluttershy who hid her red face behind a menu. "And for that matter, why haven't you taken her home yet?"
"Don't fault the two ladies my dear," said the doctor. "I pressed upon them an irresistible invitation to lunch at the wonderful Crisp Grove. Please sit and join us."
"No thank you doctor. I just picked up what I came for and now I must return home. Come along Sweetie."
"Right now?"
Rarity raised her voice. "Right now I should be at home waiting for the mail mare. You were supposed to be home way before 'right now'."
"But I was learning something and..."
"Learning? What did you learn today Sweetie? How to make your older sister angry? Well, you certainly secured an A+ for that! Now get your plot out of that chair and follow me home immediately!"
Rarity turned and marched towards the Carousel Boutique. Her sister slithered out of her chair and followed, head hanging slightly.
"So, that's Rarity," said the doctor, rubbing the top of his glass in slow circles.
"Yes. Don't take it the wrong way doctor. She's just been having a hard day today. She's really a nice and generous pony."
"Oh I'm sure. I'm sure" |
Sweetie and the Scientist | Saving Commander Chickadee | The two sisters exited the Crisp Grove and walked to Carousel Boutique. They spotted the blonde mail mare loading the last box of Rarity's specially designed dresses onto the mail wagon and lock the hatch. When she spotted the two unicorns coming her way, she gave them a friendly salute across the forehead and smiled as bright as her bubbly personality.
"Everything's loaded, Miss Rarity," she said. "Next stop: Manehatten!"
Rarity wasn't as thrilled as the mail mare was, but she offered a polite smile in return. "Good, good. Now before you leave, I must give you some very crucial instructions on how to handle these."
For the next five minutes or so, Sweetie Belle stood by her sister while she explained to the mail carrier how each dress was folded and packed in a way that minimized wrinkling, and that much care should be taken to not rattle the cargo too much, lest the prized dresses unfold and arrive at their destination rumpled. Sweetie Belle yawned a great mouthful and lets her eyes wander around the streets of Ponyville. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught sight of a feathery purple mane vanishing into a darkened alley between two houses. She thought about whom it might have belonged to when it hit her like a ton of bricks.
"Scootaloo," she whispered.
"What was that, Sweetie?" asked Rarity, turning her head momentarily from her instruction.
"Oh, nothing."
With a shrug, Rarity turned back to address the mail mare, who was scribbling furiously into a pocket notepad.
I wonder what Scootaloo is doing in that dark alley? Sweetie thought. She started walking in the direction of where her fast friend zipped, but decided maybe it would be wise to ask her sister first and retrace her steps. "Um, Rarity?"
She ignored her little sister's call and continued instructing the mail mare.
"Rarity?" This time Sweetie poked her sister's side. She was brushed off.
"Come on, Rarity. I just gotta ask you something." She tugged lightly on her sister's mane, finally provoking a reaction. A negative reaction.
"Sweetie Belle, honestly. Can't you wait for a minute?"
"But I wanted to ask you if I could..."
"Not now, Sweetie Belle. Go inside and wait for me there. Don't interrupt me."
Sweetie huffed and marched to the front door of Carousel Boutique. Before she reached for the knob, she spotted Scootaloo poking her head out of the alley to look on both sides of the street, only to disappear again within.
"What in the world is she doing in there?" the curious unicorn asked herself. She quickly checked on her older sister, who was still informing the head scratching mail mare, and dashed away to her escape. Using the barrels that sat in front of the first house to conceal her body, she crept closer and closer to the alley. Assured that her sister didn't suspect a thing, she emerged from her hiding place and tip-hoofed into the dimly lit alley.
"Scootaloo," she called. "Where are you?"
A quick scan of her surroundings revealed nothing more than a few smelly trash cans and a slumped stack of weathered cardboard boxes that stood about six feet high. Reaching the end of the barren alley, she turned to go back to Carousel Boutique, disappointed that she couldn't find her friend or whatever secret she was keeping. Then, she heard a soft peep coming from inside one of the boxes.
"Shh!" she heard.
"Scootaloo, was that you?"
No answer. She walked closer to the stack of boxes and, one by one, laid them down on the ground. She carefully opened the dusty flaps of each one and peeked until she found a hunched-over Scootaloo inside the last one.
"Scoots? What are you doing in there?"
The pegasus looked up at her friend and exposed the source of the soft peep sound resting in her hooves. It was a baby chick.
"Aw, that baby chick is so cute, Scootaloo! But what is it doing inside an old box sitting in a smelly alley?"
"Duh, I brought it here," she replied, poking her head out.
"But why?"
"Well, it's kind of a long story. But, I found this little chick hanging around at school during recess so I kept it inside my backpack until school got out. I spent all yesterday and today looking for its home, but I haven't had any luck."
"Is that why you said you had plans yesterday after school?"
"Yeah."
"You know we could've helped you if you just asked, right?"
Scootaloo hopped out of the box and observed the baby chick wandering around inside its temporary home. "I know, but I didn't want Applejack and Big Mac to know."
"Why not?"
"Because they're grown-ups. They think us foals can't handle something as simple as finding a lost chick its home. They think we're dumb or something. It's just like how Rainbow Dash doesn't want to teach me her cool flying tricks yet. She thinks I'm too young to handle them right now."
"Tell me about it," grunted Sweetie Belle. "Rarity's been treating me like a baby or something the past couple of days. She's always ignoring me when I have something to say and when I'm doing something, it's like I'm doing the worst possible thing. It gets annoying."
"It's like they think you can't do anything on your own, right?"
Sweetie sighed and nodded.
"Well I wanna prove them wrong." The determined filly scooped up the baby chick and held it up for her friend to see up close. "So, you wanna help me find its home?"
"Let's do it!"
The baby chick peeped aloud in agreement, prompting laughter from the two fillies.
"It's so cute! Did you name it?"
"Well, since I don't know if it's a boy or a girl, I thought of giving it a name that could fit both. So I named it Commander Chickadee."
Sweetie chuckled. "Why such a tough sounding name?"
"'Cause look at the way it walks!"
Scootaloo set Commander Chickadee down and the two watched its wobbly gait across one side of the alley to the other, its posture as straight as any soldier in the army.
"Wow, it does look like a mini-soldier," chuckled Sweetie.
Scootaloo picked up the soft orphan and nestled it comfortably in her mane. "Alright Commander Chickadee, let's go find your home!"
The two fillies left the alley and walked out to the middle of the street. They spotted Rarity waving off the mail mare as she took off into the sky on her mail wagon. Before going inside, the dress maker was met by the third member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders.
"What's Apple Bloom doing here?" asked Sweetie.
"Let's find out," suggested Scootaloo.
They crept behind a barrel and listened in on Rarity and Apple Bloom's conversation.
"Hello Apple Bloom. I assume you want to see Sweetie Belle, correct?"
"Actually, my sister asked if y'all wanted to come to Sweet Apple Acres an' help us out with preparations for the First Week of School celebration. We needs lotsa help still."
Rarity cringed. "Help? Like, hard work help?"
"Nah. She said you can help with the decorations an' stuff. She ain't really good at that kinda thing, she says."
The hesitant unicorn relaxed into a smile. "Well, now that's something I can sink my hooves into. Not literally of course. Come inside while I call for Sweetie Belle. We'd both be more than happy to assist you with the decorations."
"Great!" shouted Apple Bloom. She followed Rarity into Carousel Boutique.
Back behind the barrel, two friends were feeling a little perturbed by the sequence of events.
"What are we gonna do? If Rarity finds out I'm not in there, I'll get in trouble for sure!"
"I don't know, but we better come up with a plan fast," said Scootaloo, struggling to keep Commander Chickadee still. "Our baby chick is getting restless."
Sweetie gasped. "I got it. I know what we can do to make Rarity think I'm inside and get Apple Bloom to help us, but we gotta act fast and not make any mistakes."
"Roger. What's the plan?"
"Sweetie Belle!" Rarity called out.
Apple Bloom waited by the entrance of Carousel Boutique while Rarity searched for her little sister. She went into the kitchen, the rooms, and peeked in every closet, but Sweetie was nowhere to be found.
"Where is that sister of mine?"
Just then, a low groan rang out from the halls.
"Sweetie, was that you?"
"Rarity," Sweetie grunted. "Come here, quick!"
Rarity crouched at the ready. "I'm coming, Sweetie. Just tell me where you are."
Sweetie uttered another painful moan. "I'm in the bathroom."
Rarity galloped as quickly as she could to the bathroom door. She rattled the knob, but realized it had been locked. "Sweetie, are you okay in there?"
The plotting filly couldn't believe that her little charade was actually working on her protective sister. She was okay after all. She was just feigning illness to distract Rarity away from Apple Bloom. If everything was going according to plan, the apple farm filly should've been receiving instruction from Scootaloo about their plans to help Commander Chickadee. Sweetie got herself together and continued her faking. "I don't feel too good, Rarity I think it was the salad I had for lunch at the restaurant."
"What is it, my dear sister? A loose stomach? Nausea? Vomiting?"
"All of that," she responded, holding back giggles.
"Oh dearest me!" said Rarity, perching a hoof over her heart. "We must do something about that vicious stomach problem you're having! I'm going to go see Applejack in a little while to help out with decorations for the First Week of School celebration. When I come back, I'll bring some of her hot apple tea to help soothe your stomach, okay? You make sure to stay in bed and drink lots of fluids."
"Okay, Rarity," said Sweetie, adding fake gagging and vomiting noises.
"Fret not, poor sister. Rarity won't take long! Your big sister will take care of you!" The concerned sister walked briskly to the front door, just missing Scootaloo trying to make herself scarce. "Apple Bloom darling, I'm afraid I won't be able to stay for long. Poor Sweetie has a dreadful stomach ache in need of your sister's wonderful soothing tea. You don't think she'd mind if I bought some, do you?"
"Not at all, Rarity," said Apple Bloom. "I think she'd even give ya some for free."
"That would be most wonderful. Let's be on our way."
The two stepped out, pausing so Rarity could lock the door. Behind the boutique, Sweetie Belle jumped out the open bathroom window and, with the help of Scootaloo, landed gently on the ground. The two made their way around the side and hid just out of sight to watch Apple Bloom carry out the rest of their little scheme.
"Hey Rarity," began Apple Bloom. "I just remembered that Applejack wanted me to go to Sugarcube Corner to pick up a chick...I mean, cake."
"Cake? For what?"
"Oh, well, um, it's for Big Mac's belated birthday! Yeah, AJ wasn't feelin' too good about bein' so busy workin' on all the games an' stuff for the celebration that she forgot about his birthday. She wants to make it up to him with a specially made cake."
"Oh. I didn't know Big Mac's birthday already passed. Maybe I should bring him a gift. Maybe I can make him a dapper green tie that matches his eyes!" Rarity shook herself out of her reverie. "Not now, Rarity. You have an ailing sister that needs your help!" With that, Rarity took off towards Sweet Apple Acres wearing a worrisome look on her face.
From the side of Carousel Boutique, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo emerged and met up with the third member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders.
"Alright, nice work Apple Bloom," praised Sweetie Belle.
"I don't know, Sweetie Belle. I hate havin' to fib like that, especially since she looked genuinely worried about you."
Sweetie scowled. "Well, I wouldn't worry about it one bit, Apple Bloom. She deserves to go on a wild goose chase for no reason at all."
"Oh no!" screamed Scootaloo. "It looks like we might have a wild chick chase of our own!" She pointed down the street. Commander Chickadee had gotten a huge head start on the trio and waddled onto the steps of Sugarcube Corner. They broke into a hard gallop and made it to the front of the bakery shop just in time to watch the wayward chick slip inside through the cracked open door.
"Quick, inside Sugarcube Corner!" said Sweetie Belle.
They galloped up to the door and Sweetie Belle reached for the knob. She was staggered by the sudden appearance of Pinkie Pie, who was elated to see them.
"Oh my gosh, you're here!" she said. "I totally forgot about Big Mac's special belated birthday cake. I hope I'm not too late."
Apple Bloom stared puzzlingly at the pizzazzed pony, but a soft kick to the shin from Scootaloo reminded her of her bogus story. "Oh yeah, it's alright Pinkie. You're not late."
"Oh goody! And now that you girls are here, you can help me with making it! We'll get it done in no time."
Before any of the girls could say a word, Pinkie grabbed them all and pulled them inside the bakery shop and into her kitchen. In the blink of an eye, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were decked out in lacey aprons and colorful chef hats. The main baker laid out every ingredient, bowl, and utensil on the counter then donned her own pink poofy chef's hat.
"Okay, let's get to work!" She looked out over the gathered items and slapped her forehead. "Oh my goodness, I forgot the sugar! Help me find the sugar girls, yeah?"
Pinkie set out to look for the missing ingredient on one side of the kitchen while Sweetie Belle gathered her two friends into a huddle. "Okay, here's our chance. Let's split up and look for Commander Chickadee."
"Right," they said.
Apple Bloom and Scootaloo started the search in the shop while Sweetie Belle stayed in the kitchen. She looked in all the cupboards, in every drawer, between every container on the counter, and even in the refrigerator. In the shop, Apple Bloom looked in the broom closet, behind the counter, and inside the display case while Scootaloo searched elsewhere. They returned to the kitchen to discuss the status of the search party with their friend.
"No sign of Commander Chickadee anywhere," said Scootaloo.
"We searched everywhere," added Apple Bloom. "He's nowhere to be found."
"Come on, girls. It's gotta be around somewhere." Sweetie looked around and spotted a small yellow shape tucked away in a hall closet just across the kitchen door. It was sitting inside a package of some kind on a high shelf. She came to the object slowly, keeping her eyes on it. The yellow mystery item began to take shape. The shape of a baby chick. "You guys, I think I found it!"
The two fillies walked behind Sweetie Belle and watched as she slowly opened the closet door and stood on her tip hooves. She reached up high and secured two shaky hooves around the package and brought it down.
"You found the sugar!"
Pinkie Pie startled the unicorn as she toppled inside the closet and dropped the package of sugar on her head. It fell on its side and spilled all over the floor, taking the yellow chick with it.
"Grab the chick, quick!"
Both Apple Bloom and Scootaloo dove for the baby chick, but they met in the middle and bumped each other's heads. Pinkie Pie snorted with laughter as she helped the girls to their hooves and picked up the package of sugar and placed it on the counter.
"Oh, you silly girls, that's just Gummy's squeaky toy." She picked it up and gave it a squeeze. "See? The real baby chick is inside the room playing with Gummy."
"What!?" The three fillies left the kitchen in a hurry and burst through the door where Gummy was and skidded to a halt, holding their breaths. To their surprise, and to their relief for that matter, the baby alligator was enjoying a nice game of balloon catch with Commander Chickadee. Each of the girls' jaws nearly dropped to the floor while Pinkie simply gazed at the heartwarming scene and sighed.
"Aw, isn't that the cutest thing you've ever seen? It's like they're brothers."
"Wait, Commander Chickadee's a boy?" asked Scootaloo.
"Yes indeedy."
"How can you tell?" asked Apple Bloom.
"Oh, I just can."
"You called them brothers." The awestruck unicorn couldn't peel her eyes off of what was going on before them. "How can this be? I mean, Gummy's an alligator and Commander Chickadee is a chick. How does that even work?"
Pinkie Pie picked up her pet and gave him a soft squeeze. "It's because Gummy's a big bundle of gummy goodness!"
"He should be trying to eat Commander Chickadee, not play with him."
"Oh, not Gummy. He's just one special little guy. When I found him out on the road, I just knew I was there at the right place at the right time. It couldn't have happened any other way. He's not a vicious baby chick-eating monster from a scary movie. He's a lovable glob of greeny cuteness. He's my Gummy and I love him."
They all looked at Sweetie as confusion covered her entire face, then they looked up at the door and gasped at the unexpected arrival of ponies.
"It just doesn't make any sense," said Sweetie Belle.
"You're right, it doesn't," said Rarity.
Sweetie joined the others in staring at the upset faces of her big sister and Applejack.
"Rarity..."
"Hey there, Applejack," shouted Pinkie Pie. "You're brother's cake is almost done. Just a few more minutes in the oven and he'll be having the best birthday party ever!"
"His birthday was seven months ago, Pinkie Pie," she said, staring down her little sister.
"Wow. You guys really put the 'late' in belated."
"We're not celebrating a belated birthday, Pinkie Pie." Applejack ran a hoof through her mane when she spotted Commander Chickadee climbing into Scootaloo's hoof. "Wait a minute. Is that one of our chicks?"
Scootaloo passed the chick over to Applejack, who inspected it up close and found a tiny blue band wrapped around its leg. "It is. How'd he get out here?"
All eyes were on the pegasus filly, who hunched down and stared at the floor.
"You told me you found it at school," said Apple Bloom.
"I didn't," she confessed. "I found it at your farm."
"You.."
"Stole him," said Applejack.
No one said a word for a few moments. Then, the apple sisters left the room. They were followed by Scootaloo, but not very close. Pinkie Pie left to check on the birthday cake, taking Gummy with her. Only the two sisters remained.
"Rarity.."
"Don't say a word to me." And then, she left. |
Sweetie and the Scientist | Day One | "Are there any questions?"
The doctor's question drifted in the silence and no student raised an eager hoof. It was as if the life had been sucked out of them, or they had other matters in mind that they deemed more important than class. The Cutie Mark Crusaders, for example, spent the entire day sitting in different seats away from each other. This fact posed quirky in the eyes of the students and became a point of ridicule for Diamond Tiara and her equally unkind friend, Silver Spoon. Even the doctor took mental note of it.
"Very well, a quiet class deserves a quiet dismissal. You're homework assignment is at the door on your way out."
The chairs scraped across the floor and every student filed out, taking a homework sheet from the neat stack. Once they stepped out into the cloudy autumn day, normal conversation grew steadily and the class lecture was forgotten. The last students out, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, trotted slowly down the steps and they went their separate ways. Sweetie Belle looked up and realized the uncommon break from routine. She turned to Apple Bloom to her right and found a most dreadful look of anger directed to Scootaloo who was on the left. The look she returned was apologetic, on the brink of tears, but she didn't say a word. Sweetie Belle could feel her own face contort into an anxious frown and stopped her solemn walk back home. She hadn't gone far from the front door, and she waited until her two best friends abandoned her on the schoolyard.
"Hello, my dear scientist," said a friendly voice from behind.
Sweetie acknowledged the greeting with a forced smile. "Hey doctor."
He locked the door to the school and caught up with her. He gave her a genuine smile. "My, you were quite the shy one today. Care to share what's been bothering you?"
Sweetie sighed and told the doctor the events that occurred after her sister picked her up from lunch at the Crisp Grove the day before.
"I see." The doctor gestured that they walk together and so they began the trek down the winding dirt path into town. After a few minutes the doctor asked, "Is your friend Scootaloo an orphan?"
"Yeah."
"Well, that explains it."
"What do you mean?"
"You see, all creatures need someone to nurture them from birth to early adulthood. That is the natural order of things. Should it be interrupted, then certain key elements to the young's maturation process may be missed or destructively altered. You're friend Scootaloo is an orphan, thus she doesn't have the easy access to her parents you and Apple Bloom share, and that is vital to her growth."
"But why then did she steal the chick from Applejack's farm?"
"That is not as easy to explain. There are several possibilities. Perhaps she saw the chick as abandoned, left on the field to venture the world on its own, and felt compassion and took it as her own. Or perhaps she was using the chick as a confidante, something to confide her secrets to. Maybe it's as simple as she thought it looked lonely and wanted to give herself as a friend. It's a better bet, however, that she was the one looking for someone to fill the void in her mind that was made by loneliness."
Sweetie Belle shot a quick look at the old tree as they passed it and saw that the cocoon was still there. She tightened her scarf around her neck and asked, "But why would she feel so lonely? She has friends and lots of other ponies like her, too."
"You miss the fundamental difference, my dear scientist. Scootaloo possesses a need which neither you nor Apple Bloom can fill. What she needs is a nurturing guide. Someone to take her under wing and show her the ropes of life in the absence of her parents."
Sweetie thought about the doctor's words for a moment and remembered something Scootaloo had said. "You know doctor, yesterday while we were in the alley she told me how Rainbow Dash kept telling her that she was too young to learn her cool flying tricks. Is that important in any way?"
"Could be. Perhaps the consistent turn down from Rainbow Dash to model for Scootaloo her flying tricks is being misinterpreted as rejection. The same she feels from her parents." The doctor took a moment to wipe his glasses amidst the recent soft rainfall that broke through the clouds. "Of course, I am only speculating. There are so many unknown variables that to formulate a thesis would be like shooting an arrow in the dark."
"But you're sure that something is causing Scootaloo to do these things and it's not because she's bad, right?"
"Of course, my dear scientist. We're all creatures of formed habits, adapted and evolved through the passage of ancient times in which have occurred momentous events that forever changed the universe and its inhabitants. Take the alligator for instance. Did you know that alligators used to be over fifty feet long? Now, they average somewhere between eight and twenty. Do you know why?"
"Adaptation?"
"Precisely. The world is much easier to traverse that a large body is no longer needed to plow through enormous obstructions. In addition, the alligator is nimble, quicker than its ancestor to be able to chase and capture swifter prey. Nothing goes unaffected by the changes time brings. All must adapt."
The rest of the walk was spent tracking through rain-smitten leaves in pensive silence. The light from Ponyville's gas lamps filled the square shadowed by the dark storm clouds. A single light emanated from Rarity's bedroom in the otherwise dark Carousel Boutique. As they approached the front door, Sweetie Belle took off her scarf and laid a hoof on the door knob.
"Before you go, doctor."
He stopped and turned.
"I wanted to know how you felt about Pinkie Pie's words about how she met Gummy. You know, how it couldn't have happened any other way and stuff."
The doctor thought for a moment and responded, "Well, I do believe that her and I would differ on opinion. Whereas she believes there was some sort of supernatural coincidence, I would simply fall back on the rules for adaptation."
"But you gotta admit, it was pretty lucky how she just found Gummy on the side of the road. And how he didn't attack Commander Chickadee at all? Can an alligator just forget its natural instincts like that?"
The doctor was about to answer her question, but held back and instead said, "I suggest you do the homework assignment. I believe it will help you understand my position a bit better. Have a pleasant rest of the day, my dear scientist."
"You too, doctor."
And with that, he turned and disappeared into the thickening fog.
Sweetie Belle settled onto the couch after shutting the door behind her. She dropped her scarf on the floor and switched on the lamp sitting next to her on a night stand. Hoisting her knapsack onto her lap, she reached in and pulled out the homework assignment. She looked at the top of the page and started reading the first paragraph:
Before you begin, it is important that you understand that this assignment has been formatted into a step-by-step model. If you follow the directions as indicated in every step, you will get an "A".
"Wow, that's like the easiest A ever," she said to herself. She continued reading:
It is also important that you make sure to do the steps on the day indicated. That means you are not allowed to skip ahead into Day 2's steps until you have accomplished all of Day 1's steps and have had a good night's rest. If for some unforeseen reason you must stay up all night on Day 1, then take a short nap and continue onto Day 2.
Sweetie Belle lowered the paper and looked up at the wall clock. Four thirty.
"I have plenty of time to do this I'm sure."
She picked up the paper and began on Step 1:
Step 1: Go to the kitchen and serve yourself a glass of water. Take a sip. Remember, water is the most important resource we have for survival. Without proper hydration, we jeopardize the basic functioning of our entire bodily system. In addition, proper hydration helps to keep the mind keen and focused, which is important for the task at hand.
"Weird."
Sweetie Belle got up and went into the kitchen. She poured herself a glass of cool water from a pitcher she found in the refrigerator and took a hearty sip. The refreshing water felt good on its way down her throat, cooling her insides.
"I didn't realize how thirsty I was."
She made her way back to the couch and set her glass of water next to the lamp. She read step two:
Step 2: Seclude yourself in the quietest area around in preparation for step three. You will require all the peace and quiet you can find in order to give yourself the best chance for ultimate concentration.
Sweetie scanned the living room around her which, aside from the single light illuminating her lap, was in complete darkness. "It's pretty quiet here, but he did say to find the quietest. How can I tell though?" After thinking about it for a minute, Sweetie closed her eyes and concentrated all her focus into her hearing. She could hear the light patter of afternoon rain outside her window, the hum of the washer machine working in the room behind her. She even picked up the buzzing of the lamp next to her. She opened her eyes. "Let's try a different room."
She took her glass of water and walked to the kitchen. She sat at the table and did the same thing. She could still hear the washer machine, though not as clearly. She also picked up the whirr of a single ceiling fan directly above her. "Well, that washer machine is pretty loud. I bet I'd hear it from anywhere." She stood on her seat and reached for the string to shut the fan down. "But this fan doesn't really need to be on. I'm not even cold." After turning the fan off, Sweetie took her seat and listened again. No additional noises from anything else. "Great!" she exclaimed, taking a sip of water. "Now I can go on to step three."
Step 3: Using the template below, list ten questions that you've always wanted the answer to but could never find. This can be any kind of question about any topic. List them on the left. On the right, write a corresponding reason for wanting to know the answer to the question. "I just want to know" is not a valid reason or anything like it. Think hard about your reasons.
Below the third step were two columns, side by side and separated into ten rows. On top of the left column was written "Questions" and on top of the other "Reasons". She fetched for a pencil in her knapsack and began to think. After about ten minutes of thinking, she wrote down her ten questions:
1. Why didn't Gummy attack Commander Chickadee yesterday at Sugarcube Corner?
2. Why did Scootaloo steal the baby chick from Sweet Apple Acres?
3. What exactly happens inside a cocoon when a caterpillar turns into a butterfly?
4. Why is the sky really blue?
5. Do rainbows ever end somewhere?
6. How did life begin on Equestria?
7. Where do foals come from?
8. How do you know when to stop watering the grass?
9. What happens to you after you die?
10. How long can you live without drinking any water?
And she wrote their corresponding reasons:
1. It just seems weird how Gummy can just forget how to act like a natural alligator.
2. The doctor told me a lot of reasons maybe why, but I want to know the real truth so I can help my friends get back together.
3. I don't have x-ray vision so I would like to know what really goes on inside.
4. I can't really feel the sky but it has a color I can see. Is it painted with some kind of invisible paint or something?
"I hope I don't get in trouble for putting a question there," Sweetie said. She decided to erase it
and write in its place: I want to know if something that can't be felt can have a color. She continued:
5. I've always heard there was some kind of treasure at the end of every rainbow, but I never heard of someone finding it. I would like to know so I can get it and maybe buy some things for my friends and family and for me of course.
6. If I can find out how life got started on Equestria, maybe that information can help doctors to discover ways to make it never end.
7. No one knows the answer to this question and it makes me mad.
8. Whenever my mom does it, dad always complains she's doing it too long and can kill the grass. When my dad does it, she says he isn't watering them enough. I would like to know so I can tell them just how much is enough and they can stop fighting over it.
9. I want to know what I can look forward to and if any family members who have died will be there. It would be pretty neat to meet family members I never knew because they died before I was born.
10. So I won't die.
Sweetie put down her pencil and gave her wrist a much needed rub. She looked over her
questions and reasons and was satisfied with her work. She looked for the next step on the page but
realized there was none. She turned over the page and saw "Day 2" printed at the top.
"I guess I'm all done for today," she said. "That wasn't too bad."
"Who are you talking to?" asked Rarity. She walked casually into the kitchen and opened the
refrigerator and pulled out a sealed bag of ground coffee. She poured the grounds into the coffee machine and started it up.
"No one," was the reply.
"Oh, so much work. The client loved the dresses so much he's decided to appoint me his design expert. He's asked for four new styles of dresses by the end of this week. This could mean big things for me, you know. It could be the first step into expanding my business outwards from Ponyville. Maybe even outside Equestria."
She turned to her little sister who was paying no particular attention to her. She uttered a soft groan and poured herself a mug of hot coffee. "Sweetie Belle, I need to talk to you about something."
"About what?" she asked with her face still turned away.
"Mother and father have decided to extend their vacation until the end of this week, so you'll be staying with me a little longer than expected."
Sweetie shrugged. "So?"
She continued. "That's going to be a problem because the client has asked that I personally deliver the new designs when they're ready. He wants to introduce me to his circle of friends who are all well-to-do business ponies. I'm afraid I'll have to take you with me as I have no other choice."
Sweetie turned around in her chair and raised her voice. "Can't I stay with someone while you're gone?"
"I'm not sure I can be confident that you'll stay out of trouble if I'm not around. You know mother and father weren't happy when I told them about your little rendezvous yesterday. They don't want you out of my sight no matter what."
Sweetie frowned and turned back. "Why do I always have to go where you go? I don't even want to go to stupid Manehatten with you."
"The feeling is mutual," Rarity sighed. "But rules are rules. We leave Friday afternoon after you're done with school. We'll return Saturday right before the festivities begin, so you don't have to worry about missing out."
Rarity took her coffee cup and made her way back upstairs to her workroom. Sweetie slumped forward and bumped her head with a thud on the table. An elongated sigh escaped her lips as frustration exploded inside her like a volcano.
"It wasn't like I was doing anything wrong. I was helping out a friend. Since when do you get in trouble for that?" She picked up her head and let out another sigh. "I hate this. I hate this so much."
She rubbed her eyes and looked back down on her paper. She noticed she overlooked the final step for the day's assignment. The final step read:
Step 4: Review your list of questions and circle the three that are most important to you. If you have trouble classifying any of your questions as important, choose the three that would be the most difficult to answer.
She looked over her list of questions and decided on circling questions three, six, and nine. She took one last glance over her homework assignment and made sure she had done every step for the day. She went back into the living room and put the paper into her knapsack. Before she closed it, an idea popped into her mind. She took the paper back out and rushed upstairs to her sister's workroom. She gave the door a knock.
"Come in," said Rarity.
Sweetie opened the door and poked her head inside. "Hey Rarity, I don't think I can go with you to Manehatten after all."
Rarity was unimpressed. "Really? Why's that?"
"Well, it's because we were given this assignment and it's really hard. I need to put all of my concentration on it and I think going to Manehatten would be a distraction."
Rarity stopped her work on the sewing machine and walked to the door. "Here, let me see the assignment."
Sweetie Belle ripped the paper out of reach. "No, I already told you it's hard."
"I just want to see the due date. When is it due?"
"Friday."
"Then why are you so worried? You have all day tomorrow to work on it. If you need help, I'd be more than happy to."
"I don't need your help!"
Rarity jerked her head and scowled. "Don't raise you voice at me like that! I was just offering my help. If you don't want me to help you, then you can go to the library and ask Twilight."
"But what if she can't? What if I don't finish by Friday?"
"Then I suppose you'll fail."
Sweetie gasped. "You would let your little sister get an F? How could you?"
"Hey, it's your homework so it's your responsibility to get a good grade. Look young lady, you're coming with me to Manehatten on Friday whether you like it or not. Don't try to pull tricks on me so you can stay."
Rarity went back to her sewing machine and continued work on the hem of one her presentations. Sweetie Belle just stood at the door staring at the floor, rage bottling up inside her. She left the room but not without slamming the door hard. She was about to go into her own room when she heard the workroom door open behind her.
"What on earth is your problem!? Why did you slam the door like that?"
Sweetie froze and didn't say a word.
"You know, you've been acting very strangely ever since you came back from school today. Did something happen to you?"
Sweetie turned to face her sister with tears in her eyes. "No. I'm fine. It's none of your business anyway."
Rarity's face softened as she tried to get closer to Sweetie Belle. Sweetie marched inside her room and shut the door. She lingered by the door long enough to hear her sister go back inside her workroom. She threw herself on the bed and screamed and cried into her pillow.
"Why do I feel so useless?" she cried. "Why do I feel so alone?" |
Sweetie and the Scientist | Day Two | Sweetie Belle opened her eyes and the morning light blinded her immediately. She rolled out of bed and shut the curtains, then walked out of the room and into the kitchen. She served herself a lazy breakfast of cereal and picked up a banana seemingly hours away from turning into a brown, slimy mess.
"Nevermind."
Before taking the first spoonful of cereal, she pulled out the assignment from her backpack still hanging on the back of her chair and read over day two's instructions.
Today's instructions are simple: Find the answers to your uncircled questions. You may ask anypony or consult any form of media. Books, scrolls, paintings, anything you can think of. Even your personal observations will serve you. Write what you discover on the space provided below. Be sure to label your answers with its corresponding question.
"The uncircled ones?" Sweetie brought the paper below the table. "Why not the circled ones?"
Her thoughts were suddenly broken by a knock on the front door.
"Who could that be?"
She left the kitchen to open the door.
"Howdy Sweetie Belle," greeted a chipper Apple Bloom.
Sweetie scratched her head. "Uh, hey Apple Bloom. What're you doing here? Or better yet, how're you here? I thought you got in trouble with Applejack."
"Are ya talkin' 'bout what happened two days ago with that thievin' Scootaloo?" Her voice changed dramatically to a much darker tone.
"Well..."
Apple Bloom flashed a smile. "There ain't nothin' to worry about, Sweetie. Mah sis an' I had a good, long talk about things an' everything's good now. I got her permission to be here if'n that's what your meanin'."
"So you and Applejack are good now?"
"Eeyup! We're back to bein' the best sisters around!"
Sweetie smiled weakly. "So, what should we do?"
"Well, that's what ah'm here for. I was wonderin' if you wanted to go around town askin' for answers to the questions we wrote for last night's homework."
"I can't. I'm grounded."
"What?"
Sweetie stomped a hoof on the ground. "Rarity grounded me for the rest of the week because of what happened. Not only that, I have to go with her to Manehatten tomorrow for some stupid business trip with one of her clients."
"Where are yer parents?"
"On vacation," Sweetie sighed.
"Again?"
Sweetie didn't respond.
Apple Bloom thought for a few moments before suggesting, "Hey, why don't we just do our homework here at Carousel Boutique together?"
"That might work for a little while, but some of the questions I wrote down need to be answered by someone outside. Watch." Sweetie disappeared inside for a minute and came back with her list of questions. She showed them to Apple Bloom. "See? How can I answer some of these without going outside first?"
"Why did you write this one?" she asked, pointing to the second question.
Sweetie quickly scanned the question. She gulped. "Well..."
"We know why she did it, Sweetie Belle."
"You do?"
Apple Bloom turned around. "Yeah, 'cause she's a thief. I don't know what got into her, but what she did was wrong. Only thieves take somethin' that ain't theirs."
"Apple Bloom, you don't think she did it just because, right? There has to be a reason."
"Well, whatever it is, it probably ain't a good one." She turned and gave her a reassuring smile to calm her friend's anxieties. "So, should we just stay here then?"
Sweetie thought for a moment then announced, "Well, I do remember my sister saying that if I needed Twilight's help I could go to the library."
"Hey, that's a great idea! Plus, we can look through all those books too!"
"Okay! Just let me get my backpack and we'll..."
"Hey Sweetie?"
"Yeah?"
The somber look on Apple Bloom's face put Sweetie Belle on edge.
"Is something wrong, Apple Bloom?"
"Ah just don' want y'all to think that ah hate Scootaloo or anythin'."
"Why would I think that?"
"'Cause of what ah said about her earlier."
Sweetie reassured her friend with a smile. "Apple Bloom, of course I don't think you hate Scootaloo. You're just mad because of what she did. I still think there's a reason for what she did, but I'm not sure. Just don't call her something that we can't know for sure, like a thief, okay?"
"Ah s'pose," she said, returning the smile with one of her own.
"Great! I'll be right back."
"Of course you can do your homework here!" said Twilight. "Come on in!"
The two fillies stepped inside and followed the cheerful librarian into the reading area. Spike stood atop a ladder dusting off some books while Owliscious snoozed silently on Twilight's desk. They walked up to a large table that was cluttered with all kinds of books.
"Please excuse the mess, girls," she said, magically reshelving the books in order. "I had a late study rush last night and forgot to put these titles back in their place."
When all the books were put away, the fillies scooted some chairs close and hung their backpacks on the backrests.
"Thanks for letting us stay, Twi," said Apple Bloom.
"No problem! I'm going to be in the kitchen making breakfast. Just holler if you need me!"
"Hey, what am I? Scuffed sapphires?" Spike put his hands on his sides, tipping backwards dangerously. He caught himself just before the fall pulled him down.
Twilight giggled and said to the girls, "Or you can ask my number one assistant Spike for help. In fact, he could get you any book that happens to be at the highest parts of the shelves. Right Spike?"
"Right!" he said, dusting with one hand while keeping a firm grip on the book shelf with the other.
Twilight laughed and made her way into the kitchen. The girls opened their backpacks and pulled out their assignments. Sweetie Belle decided to start on question number three, which read: What exactly happens inside a cocoon when a caterpillar turns into a butterfly?
"I wonder if Twilight has any books on butterflies," she muttered to herself. Not a second later, Spike appeared right next to her holding out a book on butterflies, catching her off guard. "Whoa! Thanks Spike!"
"My pleasure! Anything for Rarity's little sister!"
Spike went back to his dusting while Sweetie thumbed through the pages of the book. She found a section on the chrysalis and immediately began to read from the top:
A chrysalis is a leaf-like shell where caterpillars begin the butterfly transformation process. After shedding its last exoskeleton, the caterpillar reveals the chrysalis underneath. Though it appears that not much is going on, inside a wonderful and mysterious set of chemical changes are happening to the little caterpillar's body, which will result in a totally new creature: A butterfly!
"Interesting," she said to herself, writing the answer on her homework assignment. She closed the book and looked over at Apple Bloom putting her homework assignment away.
"Giving up?" asked Sweetie Belle.
"Ah'm done."
"What!?"
"Yeah. Ah only needed to double check one of the answers I wasn't sure about."
Sweetie glanced over her paper and gawked at the thought of having all but one of her questions answered. "But, how did you do it so fast, and so early in the morning?"
"Ah was havin' breakfast when Big Mac showed up an' asked me why I was up so early. Ah told him 'bout our assignment an' he said he wanted to help me."
"So did he?"
Apple Bloom's eyes grew very wide. "It's amazin' all the things mah big brother knows. Shoot, he might be the smartest pony in all o' Ponyville, as far as I can tell."
"That's so weird. He's so...quiet most of the time." Sweetie watched her friend zip her backpack shut. "So what question did you need to double check?"
"Why the sky is blue."
"Hey I have that question. It's..." Sweetie scanned down the list. "...number four. Could I see your paper really quick?"
"Ah don' know. Ain't that cheatin'?"
"I don't see how it is," began Sweetie. "The instructions say we can get our answers from anypony or anything. The way I see it, I'm getting the answer to my question from Big Mac through you."
Apple Bloom thought for a moment then reached over the back of her chair for her backpack. "Makes sense to me. It just feels weird since y'all be lookin' at mah answers an' stuff."
Sweetie waited until the page was right in front of her before scribbling down the answer. "Well, it's like the doctor said: Anypony or anything."
Apple Bloom watched as her friend finished off her last sentence. "You've been hangin' around the doctor a lot, haven't you?"
Sweetie Belle passed the page back to her friend and shot her a curious look. "Do you find that odd?"
"Oh no! That's not what ah meant at all! It's just, well, interestin' how you get along so well with him. Like, I like Miss Cheerilee an' all, but ah wouldn't go outta mah way to be around her, ya know?"
"Yeah, I know what you mean. I normally wouldn't do that either with my teacher, especially with a doctor."
"So, why do you do it?"
Sweetie paused to think about her answer. "He's different. He's unlike anyone I've ever known. He makes everything really interesting and doesn't take my questions lightly. He's a very curious pony like me. And whenever I talk to him, it's not like I'm talking to a teacher or a doctor, but it's like I'm talking to my grandfather."
"Well, that's jus' fine!" said Apple Bloom, putting her assignment away. She looked up from her backpack and spotted a familiar mane of flashy rainbow colors at the door. "Rainbow Dash?"
Sweetie Belle turned around and yelled, "Rainbow Dash!"
"Hey girls," she replied, wearing a sheepish grin. "Is Twilight here?"
"She's in the kitchen," said Apple Bloom. "I can go get her if ya want."
"No, that's cool, that's cool," she said urgently. "I just came to return a book. Tell her that I brought back the latest edition of 'Daring Do' for me, okay?"
"Sure thing!"
Rainbow put the title on a nearby table and turned to leave. Before she could however, Sweetie Belle tagged her on the back. "Uh, yeah?"
"Hey Rainbow Dash. I was just wondering if you could help me on a question for my homework."
Rainbow observed the filly flash a pleading grin and gave her one of her own. "Sure thing, sport. What's the question?"
"Where do foals come from?"
The fearless flyer shrieked then mumbled a few words.
"Rainbow, are you okay?" Sweetie asked.
Rainbow sighed. "Look sport, I don't think you should be knowin' this kinda stuff yet."
"Why not?"
"You're too young."
"So?"
"So..." She struggled to find what to say about the question and grunted, "Sweetie Belle, isn't there another question I could answer for you that's not...weird? Why is that question even in your homework?"
"Actually, we needed to make a list of ten questions we want to know the answers to. That was one of the questions."
"Oh, I see. That's pretty cool. So, there must be another question I could help you with, right?"
"I suppose." Sweetie led Rainbow Dash to her work area and scanned through her list. "Okay, how about this? How do you know when to stop watering grass?"
"Beats me. Got another one?"
"How long can you live without drinking any water?"
"Not long I guess."
"That really isn't the kind of answer I was hoping for, Rainbow Dash."
The stumped pegasus huffed. "Well, I'm not a water-drinking expert you know. Got something I might actually know a thing or two about?"
"Hey, how 'bout that one?" said Apple Bloom, pointing at Sweetie's paper.
Sweetie laughed. "Oh yeah, why didn't I think of that? Do rainbows ever end somewhere?"
"Now that I can answer," said Rainbow Dash. "There's only one rainbow that shoots across the sky. It all starts in Cloudsdale. The colors flows out in a stream, high into the sky, then out beyond the horizon to the far stretches of Equestria."
"What's at the end?" asked Sweetie Belle.
"There's another fountain that collects the rainbow. When it gets full, it shoots back to Cloudsdale after one night."
"That's really interesting and all, but why have the rainbow in the first place?"
"Don't you remember we went to the edge of a rainbow to get some of it to make that love potion for Cheerilee?" Apple Bloom said.
"Yeah, but there has to be a primary reason for having a rainbow shoot across the sky. It can't just be for potion making."
"Well," began Rainbow Dash. "Legend has it that thousands of years ago, all of Equestria was under attack by enemies from the North. Then, when all hope seemed lost, a white shining alicorn burst through the dark clouds and cast a rainbow all across the sky. This rainbow fell upon the enemies, burning them alive with its acidic properties. This enabled the ponies to fend of the invaders and reclaim the land for themselves. And so, every day a rainbow shoots from Cloudsdale across the sky, into the fountain and back in honor of that legendary alicorn that saved Equestria."
The fillies stood for a few moments mulling over the story. Sweetie Belle finally asked, "Is that all true?"
Rainbow Dash belted out a hearty laugh and said, "Nah. It's just a myth. The truth is rainbows were invented by Pegasi in Cloudsdale by direct order form the Princess many years ago. She thought the sky could use a little color so she came up with the initial design and presented it to the Pegasi. They figured a water based rainbow would look best given the way light reflects off of it."
"Really, that's it?" asked Apple Bloom.
"Yup."
"So that whole story with the legendary alicorn, why does it exist if it's not true?" asked Sweetie Belle.
"You got me there, sport. Some ponies just believe in things without checkin' the facts out first. My guess is some pony who forgot to take their medication went out one night and saw one of the Pegasi placing the first rainbow up and mistook it for some supernatural phenomenon. Kinda like how you hear certain things in the dark that in actuality aren't really scary."
"How do you know so much about this?"
"Because," she said, pointing to her head. "As an extreme athlete, I fly on facts. Ever since I began to take flying seriously, I became an expert on the physics of flying and strength training. All that hard work got me interested in becoming a fact-seeker and not believing just any ol' namby-pamby story that ponies make up. The truth an' nothin' but truth as I always say."
"I'm like that, too!" piped Sweetie Belle.
"Then keep on truckin', sport."
Just then, Twilight emerged from the kitchen carrying a batch of muffins fresh from the oven. "Hey Rainbow Dash! It's good to see you."
"Hey Twilight! I just came to drop off the latest Daring Do copy. When's the next one coming out?"
"Five months."
"See ya then!"
"Well hold on just a minute there," she said, holding up the muffins. "Would you like to try one? It's a recipe I learned from Pinkie Pie not too long ago."
"A Pinkie Pie inspired muffin? Count me in!" She zipped across the ceiling and snagged a muffin from Twilight's grasp. She landed near the door and took a bite of the warm pastry. "Mmm, delicious!"
"Thank you! Hey, I couldn't help but overhear you talking to the girls about Silent Arrow. Is it true you don't believe in him?"
"Oh, that was his name," she said in between mouthfuls. "Nah, it's just an' ol' mare's tale."
"That's funny. I sort of grew up hearing about him a lot." She shrugged her shoulders and smiled. "Well, I don't want to keep you from your plans so, have a nice day Rainbow!"
"You too! And thanks for the awesome muffin!" And with that, the speedy flier blast through the door, taking off into the sky unbeknownst to her that the hinges of the door were sent flying across the street.
Twilight sighed. "I was wondering when that was gonna happen." She fixed the door using her magic then offered a muffin to the girls. "Want one?"
"Thanks!" they said, taking a muffin.
Sweetie took a bite then asked, "Hey Twilight, do you believe in the story about that one alicorn?"
"You mean Silent Arrow? Well, I remember believing it as a child. My parents basically raised me telling it like it was a fact. Some ponies still believe it today, too. But, I don't know."
After a brief moment of silence, Twilight grabbed the batch and walked back to the kitchen. "If you girls want more, they'll be in the kitchen."
"Okay, Twi," said Apple Bloom.
Sweetie Belle ate the last bite of her muffin and continued to finish her homework.
It was late in the afternoon and the girls were on their way home. The Carousel Boutique wasn't too far away as its decorative tower peeked over the hilly street, just to the left. They passed the fountain in the middle of the square and remembered the story of Silent Arrow told to them by Rainbow Dash.
"Do you think it's true?" asked Sweetie Belle.
Apple Bloom shrugged. "Ah never heard it before. How 'bout you?"
"I don't know. I never really heard about it either, but it would be interesting to investigate. Too bad I already have ten questions for the homework."
"Didja get them all done?"
"No," she said, looking over her paper. "I still have two left unanswered."
"Which ones?"
"One is about Gummy. And the other is about..."
"Hey," said a frail voice.
The two friends stopped and looked to see the speaker. Scootaloo stood before them, not as the confident and strong Pegasus they knew, but ashamedly hiding her neck between her shoulders. "Apple Bloom, c-can we talk?"
Apple Bloom swallowed. "Okay. Whatcha wanna talk 'bout?"
"Well, about the chick and stuff. Look, I'm really sorry I lied to you about it. See, I..." Her voice trailed off for a second before she cleared her throat and continued. "I just thought that having the chick would make me feel, you know, safe and not so lonely all the time."
"Why do you feel so lonely all the time, Scoots?"
"Because, because I don't have someone to, you know, look up to and I just thought the chick could help me and I just..."
"The chick could help you what?"
"Keep me company."
Apple Bloom sighed. "Scoots, you're not alone. You have us. We're your friends. We're the Cutie Mark Crusaders, remember?"
"You don't understand. I can't explain it. It's...complicated." Her voice deescalated and she hung her shoulders low. "I'm sorry. You must think I'm stupid."
Apple Bloom looked at her lonely friend in the eye. "No ah don't. Ah may not understand why you feel the way you do, but that's only 'cause I haven't learned yet. Can you show me?"
Scootaloo looked up and smiled. "It's okay. As long as you don't think I'm a thief or something, I won't mind if you don't understand."
"But I do want to understand."
Sweetie joined her farm friend. "We both do, Scoots."
Scootaloo couldn't hold back the tears much longer. "Thank you," she whispered.
The three friends hung a leg around each other and walked together to Carousel Boutique against the light of the setting sun. |
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